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General Discussions => General Media => Topic started by: Arcademan on January 19 2008, 01:13 pm

Title: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 19 2008, 01:13 pm
It's back!!! Stay tuned for new updates.

If you want to see old updates and news, clicky:

PWTorch.com (http://www.pwtorch.com/)- source of all results: lots of pop-ups.
Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33173)- condensed in-ring results minus pop-ups.
ComicBloc Forum: Official Wrestling Thread (http://www.comicbloc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=414)- longest thread and best info (membership required)
TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blogs (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog)- Updated wrestling news, results plus other bloggy goodness!!!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2008, 02:16 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-14-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26213.shtml). Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES vs. KATIE LEA -- non-title match

Basic back-and-forth to start things off. They're really hot with the red lighting on the ringside fans. Mickie won with a top rope Thesz Press with the crowd hot for the finish. Post-match, Katie and Burchill double-teamed Mickie until Kofi Kingston made the save for Mickie. Heels left the ring, then Kofi laid down the IC Title belt and told Burchill to come get some right now. They cut to break with Burchill walking back to the ring. Lawler teased a title match after the break.

WINNER: Mickie in 4:00. Solid Women's match. Probably won't be remembered overall on the show, but it held its own for the spot on the line-up. (3/4*)

2 -- IC champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/Mickie James) vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) -- Intercontinental Title match

Divas were ringside cheering on their respective men with the match joined in progress out of the break. Kofi was in control to start off with, but Burchill went on the attack to work over Kofi's midsection. He made his comeback and hit the boom-boom leg drop before Mickie attacked Katie on the outside to cut off any potential interference. Kofi then finished off Burchill with the Jamaican Buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. Mickie celebrated with Kofi as the crowd ate it up with a loud ovation.

WINNER: Kofi in 6:00 of TV time to retain the IC Title. Burchill certainly isn't going to be taken credibly if he can't win a significant match on TV. I'm not saying he should have won the IC Title here, but he needs a decent win over a quality babyface opponent before anyone cares about his non-pirate act. Kofi and Mickie certainly had the crowd hot post-match. Great tandem. (*)

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. BETH PHOENIX

Santino found himself flat on his back with Beth in prime position to land some hard right punches. Fans encouraged her to take it to Santino, then she obliged with rapid-fire blows. Santino tried to come back, but Beth rolled him up with a small package for the pin and the win. Santino complained to anyone who would listen while the crowd ate up Beth's victory. Beth smiled as Santino left the ring.

WINNER: Beth in 2:00. Babyface push for Beth? Interesting approach to pushing Beth, but it seems like a short-term deal unless WWE has something in the works. (n/a)

4 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. KANE -- non-title match

Kane lost his sense of purpose a few moments into the match and left the ring to breath heavily toward the announcers. Cole and Lawler debated whether Kane is struggling with the voices in his head. Back in the ring, Punk hit a cross-body block for a nearfall, then went for the G2S, but Kane blocked. Kane tried a chokeslam, but Punk kicked him in the face, only to be knocked off the apron to the floor. Kane followed to the outside, but Punk gave him a running bulldog on the floor. Ref's ten count reached nine as Punk re-entered the ring. Kane was counted out, giving Punk the win.

Post-match: Kane started tossing chairs into the ring. Punk didn't leave the ring, instead he tried to dodge the flying chairs. Kane then smashed Punk with right hand blows before stomping away on him. Kane tried to smash Punk's neck in a chair, but Batista's music interrupted. Batista stormed the ring and speared Kane before smashing him with a chair shot to the head. (Kane had enough time to protect his face.)

After clearing Kane out of the ring, Batista picked up Punk and helped him to his feet. Punk extended a hand for a shake, but Batista only glared at him and said it was only business to protect his investment. Batista refused to shake and talked some smack. He playfully slapped Punk on the cheek, which upset Punk. He shoved Batista in the chest, but Batista dropped him with a spinebuster. Punk was left holding his neck in the ring while Batista left. The announcers recapped what happened, then Punk was shown standing in the ring with his title belt with egg on his face.

WINNER: Punk via count-out in 7:00. Well, Punk looked like punk here. This wasn't the booking for a long-term champion, unless they play up the Taylor over Kong card at the PPV with Batista losing by a slip on the banana peel or a count-out on the floor. It's been a nice little run for Punk to excite the TV audience and breathe new life into the Raw show. His title reign will be looked at as a catalyst for a show that was stale for several weeks. (*)

5 -- CHRIS JERICHO (w/Lance Cade) vs. PAUL LONDON

Jericho quickly flung London to the ringside area, with London hitting the mat hard. Jericho smashed London into the guardrail before flinging him back into the ring. Jericho totally dominated this and finally put London in the Walls of Jericho to end the match with a submission.

WINNER: Jericho in 4:00. Just a squash for Jericho to get across his point about whooping on Michaels at the PPV. (1/2*)

6 -- JOHN CENA & CRYME TYME (J.T.G. & SHAD GASPAR) vs. JBL & World tag champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.

Cryme Tyme worked over Cody early on, then Cody tried to channel Dusty with a flip-flop-fly, but JTG cut him off with a clothesline. JBL got involved to give the heels the advantage, leading to double-team work on JTG. Fans chanted for Cena as the champs continued to isolate JTG in their corner. JBL then tagged in and worked over JTG's back. Cole played it safe sending the show to commercial break without saying anything about it being the final break.

They returned with the heels now working over Shad, who took a hot tag during the break. Cena was itching for a tag, as were the fans. Heels continued to work on Shad until Shad shoved Cody across the ring to block a bulldog. Really nice tease of the sure-bet hot tag to Cena, with Cody suddenly coming to life and knocking Cena off the apron to block the tag. Crowd was at 9/10 ready for a tag.

DiBiase and Shad traded blows until DiBiase took Shad back into the heel corner. Crowd at 5/10 anticipating Shad breaking free. They slowly went to 6/10 chanting for Cena. Cody talked smack to Shad, then he tried a top rope moonsault, but Shad moved and the crowd went to 7/10 waiting for Cena. Shad milked it and the crowd went back to 9/10 until Cena took the hot tag for 10/10. Nice match layout. Cena cleaned house, then called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle on DiBiase. Cena delivered, then he went for the FU and connected. Cody tried to intervene, but Cody took a Blockbuster. Cena then went up top and nailed the guillotine smash on Cody. He then slapped on the STFU in center ring. Cody fought the hold, but JBL broke it up and the ref called for a DQ.

WINNERS: Cena & Cryme Tyme via DQ in 15:00. Fine tag match. Good build to the hot tag, but with an unsatisfying finish that led to a bizarre post-match to distract from selling the PPV. (**) ...

Post-match: JBL left the ring and stared into the ring waiting for Cena to meet him on the floor. Cena simply stared at him until bolting from the ring to chase JBL backstage. JBL led him through the backstage area past the Pepsi machine until arriving at the exit door where a security guard stood by. Cena kicked the door open and went into move thriller mode trying to avoid the obvious trap by JBL. He looked around and around and around, but he couldn't find JBL. This was some long TV as Cena auditioned for Marine the Sequel until JBL attacked him from behind.

JBL dragged Cena over to a parked car and propped him up against the car door. JBL then hopped into a car a few feet away and drove the car into the side of the car where Cena was. No camera shots of Cena leading up to impact, and since there wasn't any noise beyond one car hitting another car, the crowd didn't pop for the "unknown" of whether Cena was hit. JBL then hopped out of his car and kinda surveyed the scene. He looked slightly distraught with questions in his head. It could be interpreted as either JBL realizing he took things too far trying to kill Cena or them playing up the deal that Cena obviously escaped and JBL simply being upset that Cena escaped the plot. Lame attempt at shock TV, especially with a PPV on Sunday, but it appears to be part of the larger theme of the McMahons having enough of anarchy ruling Raw and doing something about it next week. Whether that makes for good long-term TV or not remains to be seen.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2008, 02:17 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 7-15-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26237.shtml)

1 -- MIKE KNOX vs. SHANNON MOORE

Knox dominated early, but Shannon Moore had a nice nearfall with a top rope splash. Knox put an end to any potential upsets by nailing the Knox Out for the pin and the win. Yipee.

WINNER: Knox in 2:00. Basic squash. Same thing we've seen from Knox for months. (1/2*)

2 -- CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neeley) vs. EVAN BOURNE

Bourne started on the offensive with a shoulder twist on Chavo's left shoulder. Tazz plugged the Smackdown wedding with Chavo as best man. Bourne went high-risk, but Chavo knocked him hard to the floor. Bourne came back with an arm drag out of the corner before nailing the standing knee-tuck moonsault for a nearfall. Bourne followed with a smash to the gut in the corner, then he went up top and nailed the Shooting Star Press on Chavo for a clean pin and the win. Crowd was definitely hot for the finish.

WINNER: Bourne in 3:00. I'm surprised by the finish of Bourne winning clean, but WWE definitely appears to be strongly behind Bourne. It seems like a classic WWE test of a young talent to see how he/she responds to a little success and a strong push before committing to a long-term investment. Nice to see Bourne having a significant opportunity. (*)

3 -- WWE tag team champions JOHN MORRISON & THE MIZ vs. JEFF HARDY & U.S. champion MATT HARDY -- non-title match

After a solid six minutes of action, the match broke down in typical Hardy showcase match fashion. They appeared to be going for a typical finish of the Hardys winning clean as Jeff set up the Swanton Bomb on Miz, but Morrison yanked Miz to the outside. They cut to a break. Nice change of pace from the predictable babyface victory formula to show the heels not being completely incompetent in the booking.

After the break, the tag champs worked over Jeff in their corner. Jeff finally fought back and came off the top with a Whisper in the Wind on Miz. Matt started stomping his feet at 15:00 to encourage a hot tag, which occurred to pop the crowd. Hardy cleaned house until Morrison dropped him on the mat for a quick roll-up resulting in a two count. Matt then caught Morrison out of the corner with a sweet Razor's Edge into powerbomb for a nearfall. The action broke down and in the confusion, Jeff nailed Morrison with a Swanton Bomb to a huge reaction. Matt, the legal man, made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Hardys in 17:00. Really nice, exciting tag match featuring two of WWE's top TV stars. It would still be nice to see Miz & Morrison pick up a win, even if that doesn't fit the feel-good-ending formula, but can't complain about a solid-to-good tag match. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2008, 11:11 am
TNA Impact! Results: 7-17-08

Results cortesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell'scomplete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26257.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- X Division champion PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Steiner's freak) vs. KAZ -- X Division Title match

Petey teased the Canadian Destroyer at 2:00, then Kaz blocked and tried the Wave of the Future, but Petey blocked. Petey tried a springboard move from the apron, but Kaz caught him in mid-air with an Ace Crusher for a nearfall. Kaz then spiked Petey's neck into the mat, but freak distracted the ref when Kaz had the pin. Kaz chased freak around the ring and back into the ring. Kaz still nailed the Wave of the Future on Petey for the apparent pin, but Petey kicked out just in time. Announcers talked about Kaz continuing to be frustrated by everything happening in his life heretofore. Suddenly, Petey rolled through on a bridge pin into a bridge pin of his own with a hook of the tights for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Petey in 5:00. Fine match, but the sudden cut-backstage-immediately-after-the -match left the finish flat with Kaz's plight suddenly an afterthought. (*1/4)

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. JIMMY RAVE (w/Christy Hemme)

Christy took off running a few seconds into the match. Morgan with a swinging pancake slam for the win. Christy then led Lance Hoyt to the ringside area. Hoyt said he's the toughest SOB and if Morgan wants a gig, he has it.

WINNER: Morgan in 1:00. Squash. (n/a)

2b -- MATT MORGAN vs. LANCE HOYT (w/Christy Hemme)

Apparently Hoyt is now Lance Rock. Ridiculous. Morgan with an overhead slam on Rock before hoisting him up on his shoulders. Hemme distracted the ref, though, allowing Rock to take control. Morgan quickly came back and nailed the swinging pancake slam for the win.

WINNER: Morgan in 2:00. Squash II. Nothing much here. (n/a)

3 -- KNOCKOUTS GAUNTLET MATCH -- #1 Contender's match

This started off with Gail and Jacqueline, then Angelina Love joined the fracas. One-minute intervals for more knockouts joining the action. Salinas was out fourth. They alternated babyfaces and heels, with Velvet coming out fifth and Roxxi sixth. Apparently it's a War Games-style gauntlet match. Salinas kinda stumbled over the top rope for the first exit. Steiner's Freak came out seventh and circled the ring before starting to grab some folks. Traci (no Brooks) was out eighth. Awkward TV ensued between SF and Traci. Christy Hemme then came out ninth, and ODB rounded out the field. Cut to a break.

Freak, Christy, and Traci were eliminated during the break. So much for Traci's deal with Cornette. ODB was out next. Suddenly, Roxxi was out. Roxxi then yanked Jacqueline to the floor despite already being eliminated. Reverse battle royale anyone? So it's Gail, Angelina, and Velvet. Shocking stuff here. Gail and Angelina struggled against the ropes, then Gail eliminated Angelina. With it now one-on-one, Velvet shocked Gail with a roll-up to win the match and earn the title shot. Gail and Angelina were equally shocked at Velvet's win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky in 18:00. Not a good battle royale, but the finish was interesting to give someone new a chance at the title. It also sets up tension between Angelina and Velvet, while Gail continues to play the Kaz role of coming up just short lately. (1/2*)

4 -- JOHNNY DEVINE vs. ERIC YOUNG vs. SONJAY DUTT

Don West totally ripped on women by ripping on Val for saying Dutt has feelings. A little bitter? West said he's been married for 17 years. Tenay said it sounds like personal problems. Well, it's obvious what the new acronym for this company should be. WHW - women-hating wrestling. Match started with Devine and Young having an awkward exchange before Dutt tried to get involved. Dutt was knocked out to the floor, but then he snuck into the ring and landed a chopblock on Young for the win.

WINNER: Dutt in 2:00. Nothing to see here. (1/2*)

5 -- BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- Stretcher match

Booker toyed with Creed early, then Creed knocked Booker to the floor. Booker was not pleased with this embarrassment as they cut to break.

Creed was slightly in control out of the break, but Booker knocked his head off with a spin kick. Tenay was handed a memo that for next week, Sabin & Shelley have challenged Beer Money for a strap match. Also, Karen's Angle debuts, the six-man elimination match, and Taylor vs. Velvet for the Knockouts Title. Booker knocked out Creed and put him on the outside. EMTs then strapped Creed to the stretcher and they took him across the yellow line for the decisive win.

Post-match: They were about to put Creed into the ambulance, but Joe emerged from the ambulance and KO'ed Booker. Joe put Booker inside the ambulance and told the vehicle to speed off. Sharmell tried to smash Joe with a baseball bat, but Joe ripped it away from her and asked where she got it. Announcers speculated Sting was involved. Joe tossed the belt down to end the show.

WINNER: Booker in 8:00. Not a memorable match. Creed hadn't been on TV for seemingly months, so tossing him into the sudden underdog role just fell flat without weeks of build-up to the moment. Fine ending to the show with Joe having the one-up, but they really overplayed the Sting mystery card on this episode. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2008, 12:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-18-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26273.shtml)

1- FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. RYDER & HAWKINS
Edge scolded Finlay before the match for constantly cheating and said Hawkins and Ryder were too smart for that. Edge introduced himself as special guest referee. Edge threw the shillaleigh up the aisle before the match. Edge ref’d in his tux (white pants, grey tie, white shirt, grey and black vest).

Edge was very aggressive in scolding Finlay early on. Ryder and Hawkins were dressed similarly as Edge, only with black pants and plain grey vests. Foley got in his first “me so Horny!”line. Finlay hit the Celtic Cross, but was speared by Edge, then pinned by one of the heels.

WINNERS: Ryder & Hawkins, at 2:14.

2- BIG SHOW vs. MVP & SHELTON BENJAMIN & VLADIMIR KOZLOV & GREAT KHALI

Tough night for Show. That heel side would be a cool Survivor Series team. In any event, Show threw Benjamin into his own corner after a lock-up. He tagged MVP in. Before touching Show, he tagged Kozlov. Kozlov was unsuccessful on a throw, so Khali tagged himself in. They shoved each other, and Khali got some punches in, then clotheslined Khali down. Show took on all the heels, but Benjamin was getting the best of him when the referee called for the bell, presumably disqualifying the heel squad for all running into the ring.

WINNER: Show, via DQ, at 1:54.

3- CHERRY vs. NATALYA

Natalya attacked and punched Cherry in the face. Then she locked in the Sharpshooter and Cherry tapped.

WINNER: Natalya, at :32.

Vickie demanded the ref start her match immediately. “It’s my turn!” she screamed.

4- CHERRY vs. VICKIE GUERRERO

Vickie simply pinned the already injured Cherry.

WINNER: Vickie, at :03. “I win! The bride wins!” Vickie crowed. What a heel.

5- JIMMY WANG YANG vs. BRIAN KENDRICK

“Jimmy looks quite rested, doesn’t he JR?” said Foley. Kendrick had a new outfit, new music and bodyguard, named Ezekiel. Kendrick worked Yang’s arm, and Yang did the same to Kendrick. Hurricanrana by Yang, then a clothesline that sent Kendrick over the top. Yang went face-to-face with Ezekiel, allowing Kendrick to take Yang down. Straight kick to the jaw by Kendrick. He went back to the arm. Hammerlock slam by Kendrick, but cover only got one. He then applied a key-lock on Yang. Yang came back with a missile dropkick off the second rope, then a modified enziguiri for two. Yang went for a moonsault, but Ezekiel climbed the steps to distract him. Kendrick pulled Yang off the top, then hit Sliced Bread #2 for the win.

WINNER: Kendrick, at 4:49. Good match, and the Ezekiel-Kendrick pairing is intriguing.

6- MR. KENNEDY vs. UMAGA

Kennedy tried the hit-and-run tactic, and that worked....for a few seconds. Hard shoulderblock by Umaga was the first high-impact move of the match. Umaga missed a diving headbutt and Kennedy came back after getting his feet up on a splash attempt. Kennedy, though, couldn’t connect on his running kick, as Umaga elbowed him down. Nerve hold by Umaga. Knee-lift by Umaga, then back to the nerve-hold. Samoan drop, then a break.

Umaga had the advantage throughout break, according to JR. Kennedy tried to slam Umaga but couldn’t, thanks in part to the nerve hold from earlier in the match. Headbutt off the second rope by Umaga missed, as did a splash in the corner. Kennedy’s roundhouse kick put Umaga down for two. Mic Check was blocked, and Umaga hit the Samoan Spike for the win.

WINNER: Umaga, at 13:12. Slow match, with most of the first half being Umaga using the nerve hold.

7- JOHN MORRISON & THE MIZ vs. JESSE & FESTUS

Jesse whipped Morrison into Festus, who nailed John with an uppercut. Monkey-flip out of the corner by Jesse. High cross-body got two. JR said Morrison reminds him of “Ravishing” Rick Rude. Miz worked over Jesse for a while, until Festus made the tag. He took out both tag champs himself. Rocket Launcher got two, with Morrison interfering to break it up. Festus hit his finisher on Morrison outside the ring and Miz finished Jesse with the Reality Check inside.

WINNER: 3:57. OK preview match for the Bash.

8- MATT HARDY vs. JEFF HARDY

This is a non-title match. Foley noted that former U.S. champ Magnum T.A. was backstage visiting during the night. Hip-toss by Matt, in which Jeff almost landed on his head. Jeff with a split-legged pinning combination for two. Matt came back and clotheslined Jeff over the top rope after Jeff skinned the cat to get back in. Matt cinched in a front face-lock type sleeper, but Jeff backed him into the corner. Jeff missed a Swanton and Matt hit a moonsault for two. The entire wedding party (well, Edge’s side....we never saw Vickie’s bridesmaids) interfered and attacked both men.

WINNER: Double DQ, at 4:36. Good while it lasted, but I was looking forward to a 10-minute match.

The Aftermath of the matches...

-The Wedding reception continued in the ring, with the wedding party and Edge on the mic. Edge and Vickie were seated on stools in the ring. Edge continued to sweet-talk Vickie, then introduced a video package put together by the Smackdown production team (“they haven’t even slept!” proclaimed Edge). It was similar to the one that has previously aired on Smackdown. Finally, The Game interrupted.

He only came out to the top of the ramp, and said that he promised that he wasn’t out there to say he was secretly married to Vickie Guerrero. The live crowd didn’t seem to get it. HHH said they’re love warms his heart, and he has some nice gifts for them. One of them is a video of his own for them. The stationary camera video showed Edge sitting on a couch (dated 7/17/08). The door knocked and Alicia Fox walked in. They discussed some wedding planning things, until it became evident that Edge was leaning in toward Edge. Triple H stopped the video and said Edge clearly isn’t happy with the video, so he promised to fast-forward through to the good part. Somehow, this presumably secret, hidden camera started close-up, then panned out. Edge complimented Alicia on her perfume then began to caress her shoulder. Edge then complained of a problem in his trapezoid and conned Alicia into massaging it for him.

HHH stopped the video again as Edge complained about his previous neck injuries and how he’s always in pain like that. Edge ordered the wedding party to go after Triple H. He said that led him to gift number two....his trusty sledgehammer. That stopped the guys in their tracks as HHH continued with the video. They picked up with Edge massaging Alicia’s back. In the video, Edge made some not-so-kind comments about Vickie’s undergarments. Again, Trips stopped the tape. “This is awkward,” he said. He said he didn’t watch it before he made it, and this part kills gift #3, a pair of granny panties (mentioned by Edge in the video). He finally cut to the chase and cued the video back up. Edge made his move on the video, by taking her glasses off. They kissed, but Alicia pulled back (all the while smiling). Then they made out hardcore. Alicia was almost in tears in the arena as Vickie physically attacked Edge. Edge left the ring as Vickie continued to scream. This would’ve meant so much more if they didn’t already have a show-long fight last week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 21 2008, 12:27 pm
WWE Great American Bash PPV Results: 7-20-08

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_26283.shtml) or to avoid pop-up and view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8078 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2558566&postcount=8078) and posts thereafter.

1 -- WWE tag champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. HAWKINS & RYDER vs. JESSE & FESTUS -- WWE Tag Title match

WINNERS: Hawkins & Ryder in 10:00 to capture the WWE Tag Titles. Fine match. Curious finish. They are determined to push these interchangeable "brothers" at all costs. ECW now has one less reason to tune into the show with Miz & Morrison now just a second-tier tag team without the belts.

2 -- U.S. champion MATT HARDY vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN -- U.S. Title match

WINNER: Shelton in 10:00 to capture the U.S. Title. I like the title change here, as Shelton is capable of so much. Of course, ECW loses yet another title. Every month, they chip, chip, chip away at the ECW brand. As for the bout, a very good mid-card title match. Potentially a stand-out match on the show. (**1/2)

3 -- ECW champion MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. TOMMY DREAMER (w/Colin Delaney) -- ECW Title match

WINNER: Henry in 5:00 to retain the ECW Title. Colin turning heel was so great. Clearly the top moment of the show thus far. Match wasn't anything to write home about, especially with a lack of post-production available for Adamle, but a fine conclusion to set up storylines on TV. (3/4*)

4 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. CHRIS JERICHO

WINNER: Jericho via ref stoppage in 19:00. This one will be heavily-debated, as some people won't like the match conclusion because it wasn't a four-star classic that some people expected. But, this was a darn-good storyline-oriented match on the middle of a PPV card. Two pros telling a real, authentic, believable story. It went a bit long at the end, but they played into the fact that WWE doesn't have a standard rule for when a ref can stop a match due to a wrestler unable to continue. Overall, though, this was the realism we want to see in wrestling and there are only a select few wrestlers who can carry that out in the ring. Michaels and Jericho are at the top of that list. (***)

5 -- MICHELLE McCOOL vs. NATALYA -- Smackdown Women's Title match

WINNER: Michelle McCool in 5:00. Good match. Not particularly memorable given the short amount of time, but a solid effort from both ladies sticking to a basic formula. (*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. BATISTA -- World Heavyweight Title match

WINNER: No Contest in 12:00. Well, let's find some positives. Punk had a good showing to hang with Batista and win over the live crowd as the match progressed. Action progressed nicely and they had a good balance of offense throughout. Otherwise, it's tough to take two non-finishes to two of the marquee matches on the PPV. (**1/4)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. JBL -- New York City parking lot brawl

WINNER: JBL in 17:00. Well, this was pretty terrible backstage in the "video game" portion of the "match." Things were slightly better once they came to ringside and told a simpler story. Memorable for all the wrong reasons here. Just so much wrong with the elements of this storyline, with the obvious questions of why cops weren't there with the men attempting vehicular homicide and just plain old murder. Over-done to seemingly promote WWE's films division. (n/a)

8 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. EDGE -- WWE Title match

WINNER: Hunter in 17:00 to retain the WWE Title. Well, the finish sent the fans home happy, but three non-clean or non-traditional finishes to three of the marquee matches on the show was disappointing when WWE had a good streak of relatively clean finishes on their recent PPVs. Match was pretty much in first gear for most of the time, with flashes of excitement to keep the crowd interested. Fine, but not memorable main event to cap off a bridge PPV to Summerslam. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 22 2008, 01:43 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-21-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26296.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only (since they did a lot of jawwing during the first half of the show)

1 -- LANCE CADE vs. PAUL LONDON

Cade won this on pretty quickly with a hard shoulder tackle to work over the shoulder before landing a sit-down Rock Bottom for the easy pin.

WINNER: Cade in 3:00. Not much here. Crowd was into it early, but the outcome was inevitable. Hopefully it leads to something for London after losing a series of squashes. (3/4*)

Post-match: Cade took the mic and said that if that wasn't enough to bring out Michaels, then maybe this will. He brought out Chris Jericho to take a bow for ending Michaels's career last night.

2 -- KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX

Bell sounded and Beth bullied Kelly into the corner with a shove to the chest. Kelly tried to use her quickness with a leg sweep and short dropkick before attempting a roll-up in the corner. Beth blocked, however, and took Kelly in the air for a running slam across the way. Beth slapped on a mat hold as the fans tried to rally behind Kelly. Kelly made a nice comeback and countered the double chicken wing stretch into a roll-up, but Beth rolled through into a wheel barrow implant buster for the decisive pin.

WINNER: Beth in 3:00. Actually, this was a good divas match. Kelly showed good offense and Beth was able to show off her power offense in a decisive win after Kelly put up a competitive fight. Nicely done. (*)

3 -- JBL & World tag champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. JOHN CENA & CRYME TYME (J.T.G & SHAD GASPAR)

Cena started off with Cody and maintained eye contact with JBL throughout his work on Cody. Ted and Shad then took tags, and Ted took the wrong end of a t-bone suplex that knocked him silly for a few seconds, almost to the point of not being able to kick out of a pin attempt in time. Ted slingshot JTG across the top rope to regain control for his team, then the heels worked over JTG for some time. JTG tried to come back with a roll-up, but Cody kicked out and made another tag to Ted to continue working over JTG. Fans chanted for Cena as Cody eventually lost control for the heels. JTG crawled over to his corner and finally made the tag to Cena. DiBiase also took a tag as Cena went off on DiBiase with trademark moves. The action broke down into a melee as JBL took off running through the crowd. Cena piled up the tag champs in the corner, then took them up on his shoulders. He flung Cody off with an FU, then dropped DiBiase with a traditional FU for the pin and the win. Impressive. Cena then hugged his dad ringside before celebrating the victory with Cryme Tyme.

WINNERS: Cena & Cryme Tyme in 10:00. Formula six-man tag match, but they laid out a nice, smart match to eventually showcase Cena's strength 24 hours removed from the beating at the PPV. I would have liked to have seen WWE get some more mileage out of the JBL-Cena brawl, but the announcers did a fine job mentioning the injuries from last night throughout the show. Tag champs aren't at that Spirit Squad level of jobbing-to-the-stars, as they have a credible program to work with, but it's worth keeping in the back of the mind. (**)

4 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES & IC champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. PAUL BURCHILL & KATIE LEA

Action broke down early with Burchill tackling Kofi from behind with a chopblock to start an attack on Kofi's lower body. At 2:00, Mickie and Katie started brawling on the floor. Burchill and Kofi got involved, then Burchill smashed his ankle into the ringpost. Burchill then hit a neckbreaker in center ring and made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Burchill & Katie in 3:00. Good win for the heels to establish some credibility for their respective title chases. The villains have to get the upper hand at some point on the show, so this was a good spot. (*)

5 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. D-LO BROWN

Good response for Brown here despite being off TV for seemingly forever. Brown with the signature set-up moves leading to a top rope Lo-down for the easy pin and the win.

Afterward, Beth hopped into the ring to stare down Santino. She just stood there glaring at Santino, who finally pulled himself to his feet and begged off. Beth then smacked Santino in the face. They had a mini-brawl that consisted of exchanging standing waist locks until pausing to stare down each other. Breathing heavily, they stopped and stared at each other. Santino then put his hand on Beth's shoulder in a forward manner. Beth did the same. Oh dear. This led to a brief, awkward liplock that popped the crowd. Santino was so confused by what just happened. He quickly left the ring with a Mr. Bean-like random series of facial expressions. Beth was merely mad. Or just confused. Oh, this was great.

WINNER: D-Lo Brown in 2:00. Good return for Brown, but the obvious story was the liplock between Santino and Beth. That was classic. (1/2*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. BATISTA -- World Heavyweight Title match

They returned from break and Lillian Garcia handled the formal ring intros after the ref gave Batista the commercial break to regain his bearings. Punk quickly focused his attack on Batista's head to work on the body part affected by Kane's pre-match chokeslam. He continued to work over the body part until Batista started his comeback at the top of the hour.

Batista made his comeback, then Punk went for a turnaround splash off the top, but Batista ducked and nailed a big spear. Batista wanted the finish, but JBL suddenly ran to the ringside area and Batista ran to the outside. The ref called for the bell when JBL attacked Batista. Groan. The action spilled into the ring where JBL KO'ed Punk with a clothesline from hell. Cena then sprinted into the ring and brawled with JBL until JBL ducked a punch and Cena accidentally hit Batista. Cena and Batista had a stare down, then they teased finishers on each other. Referees spilled into the ring to break up a potential fight as the show closed.

WINNER: No decision in 9:00. Well, that's another disappointing ending to a major title match. WWE is playing with fire with the non-finishes, even if it did lead to the inevitable Cena vs. Batista confrontation. Punk's "journey" to a credible title defense is an interesting story that seemingly will be followed for weeks and possibly months at this pace. Plenty of potential match-ups going forward with SNME and Summerslam on deck. Probably a tag match on SNME, but I don't see WWE giving away Cena vs. Batista at Summerslam. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2008, 12:10 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 7-22-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26305.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. COLIN DELANEY (w/ECW champion Mark Henry and Tony Atlas)

Dreamer quickly went on the attack in this one. Colin tried to make a comeback with fists of fury, but Dreamer cut him off in the corner and landed the basement dropkick. Dreamer then set up Colin for the DDT to win, but he paused for a second before smashing Colin into the mat. Dreamer with the pin for a decisive win.

WINNER: Dreamer in 3:00. Well, they didn't get a whole lot of mileage out of Colin's heel turn, except reinforce his character as a total loser. It was funny hearing Adamle and Tazz pile on, as if they had been waiting months to rip on Colin. (*)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JAMES CURTIS

Hey, good to see Curtis back on the show with the facial hair of doom gimmick. Chavo tried to get his heat back for losing to Bourne last week because his mind was on other things, such as the Edge-Vickie wedding. Chavo said he can't wait to get his hands on Bourne. Match started with Curtis working over Bourne in the corner before Bourne ducked a clothesline. He tried a monkey flip, but Curtis held onto the ropes to block. Interesting.

Curtis went back on the offensive and tried to wrench Bourne's neck, but Bourne came back with a nice high-angle huracanrana in center ring. Bourne then laid out Curtis in the corner before hopping up top. He nailed the gorgeous Shooting Star Press to a strong crowd reaction for the pin and the win. Afterward, Chavo and Neely tried to corner him in the ring, but Bourne escaped for higher ground to leave the heels wanting to get their hands on him.

WINNER: Bourne in 4:00. That finisher is so sweet. Nice action here, although a bit slow at times with Curtis not a seasoned technician at this point in his infrequent ECW run. Fine for a Bourne showcase. (*)

3 -- THE MIZ vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MATT HARDY vs. JOHN MORRISON -- #1 Contender match to ECW Title

Miz and Morrison quickly found themselves on the floor to start the match. Finlay and Hardy had a brief stare down, which led to a lock-up and test of wills. Miz and Morrison took advantage to attack them from behind to set up a mini-tag match. Real nice exchange leading to a four-man stand-off as they cut to a break.

They had a series of nearfalls out of the break, with Adamle having one of those moments where he got lost without a map trying to keep up with the rapid-fire action. Morrison then knocked Finlay to the outside and went after Hornswoggle, but Finlay smashed him across the back and clotheslined Morrison over the guardrail to the front row. Finlay followed to the front row, but Morrison chucked a brew into Finlay's face. Miz then came to Morrison's aid and they set up a big catapult-into-clothesline-into-elbow-smash on the floor to presumably KO Finlay.

At the top of the hour, Miz and Morrison re-entered the ring to double-team Hardy in center ring. Morrison told Miz to check out Finlay, then he suddenly rolled up Hardy for a nearfall. Miz, stunned, turned back around to find Morrison trying to sneak one in. Hardy tried to take advantage of the disagreement with a roll-up on Morrison, but Morrison kicked out and Miz clotheslined Hardy. Miz and Morrison decided to work together, but Hardy fought them both off when Morrison accidentally kicked Miz in the face. Hardy smashed Morrison with the side effect, but Morrison kicked out. Finlay suddenly re-entered the picture and nearly pinned Hardy, but Morrison broke it up. Finlay cleaned house with a major burst of energy, then he came off the second rope with a missile dropkick on Morrison for a nearfall. Whew.

They took it home with Hardy nailing a double bulldog on the tag champs. Finlay then nearly scored a pin on Hardy with a big clothesline, but Hardy kicked out. Finlay wanted the Celtic Cross on Miz, but Miz hot-shot him across the top rope. At 17:00, Hornswoggle got involved, which temporarily gave Finlay control until Morrison smashed him in the face with a kick. Morrison wanted a big springboard kick on Hardy, but Hardy kicked him in the gut in mid-air and hit the Twist of Fate on Morrison. Hardy with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Hardy pumped his fist in jubilation. Henry and Atlas then came out on stage. Henry held his ECW Title for Hardy to get a good look, then Hardy stared him down to close the show.

WINNER: Hardy in 18:00 to become #1 Contender. That, my friends, was a heck of a TV match. Probably the best ECW TV match we've seen this year. Good energy, nice counters, crowd involved, good finish, and desperation/sense of urgency from all four men trying to get their hands on an ECW Title that was presented strongly on TV tonight. Excellent conclusion to the show. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 26 2008, 09:32 am
TNA Impact! Results: 7-24-08

Results courtesy of Pro Wrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1002221.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Consequences Creed defeated Eric Young and Johnny Devine and Jimmy Rave (w/Lance Rock) in a four-way in 4:00. There was a series late in the match with everyone scoring nearfalls. Creed fought off Divine Intervention and turned around a rollup attempt to pin Devine. After the match, the heels roughed up Creed until Abyss came out for the save.

Powell's POV: The announcers sold the storyline that Abyss keeps coming out to rescue people when they're in trouble. The other end of the storyline is that he is trying to fight off his violent tendencies. In this case, he picked up a chair and dropped it. Of course, the fans want him to use it.

2. Matt Morgan pinned Cory Chavis in 2:20. Tenay acknowledged Morgan's debut on "American Gladiators" as "Beast." Morgan has joined Batista in doing the "Goldberg jump." In the end, Morgan finished off Chavis with the Hellevator finisher...

Powell's POV: Really nice energy from Morgan this week. The live crowd picked up on the energy and stayed with his reaction.

3. Robert Roode and James Storm (w/Jacqueline) defeated The Motor City Machine Guns in a strap match in 7:45. In this version of the strap match, both teams are attached to each other by the strap. It's not a country whipping strap match or a fans revenge strap match, but the creative team member with the fetish for watching men whip each other still gets his rocks off. I'm just kidding, but not really.

In the unintentionally hilarious moment of the night, Tenay watched the Guns crotch Storm and Roode with the straps and said, "You've gotta be loving this more than anyone, Don West." He followed up by pointing out that West was strapped by the heels, but it was really awkward before the followup.

Late in the match, Jacqueline passed handcuffs to Storm. Sabin rolled up Roode, but Storm hit him with the handcuffs. Roode rolled up Sabin and scored the pin. Afterward, the heels used the straps to whip Shelley until LAX ran out for the save...

Powell's POV: Leather straps and handcuffs. What the hell? This is getting weirder every week. Maybe they should put Jackie in "The Gimp" outfit from Pulp Fiction

4. Taylor Wilde pinned Velvet Sky (w/Angelina Love) for the TNA Knockouts Title in 0:05. The bell that you can barely hear on television rang while Sky was talking to Love in the corner. Widle ran over and rolled her up for the win. The ring announcer stated that it was a new TNA record for shortest match. Afterward, Sky said she wasn't ready and dared her to give her another match.

5. Taylor Wilde defeated Velvet Sky (w/Angelina Love) to retain the TNA Knockouts Title in 0:20. This time the ring announcer noted that she set a new record for winning two falls in 25 seconds. Afterward, Love asked who Wilde was dating to get the special treatment in TNA. I've wondered that myself. Love offered Taylor $5,000 if she could win a third straight fall.

Powell's POV: Why pay her five grand when you could have just double dared her?

6. Taylor Wilde beat Velvet Sky (w/Angelina Love) by DQ to retain the TNA Knockouts Title in 6:15. Apparently, the gimmick was that Wilde had to pin Sky because Love ran in and broke up the pin attempt for the DQ. The heels beat up Wilde and gave her the brown bag treatment. The crowd chanted for ODB. They got ODB and Gail Kim. For some reason, ODB came out chewing on a turkey leg. No shit. Really...

7. Kurt Angle and Team 3D defeated A.J. Styles and Christian Cage and Rhino in a tables elimination match in 14:00. All six men were legal so they brawled in and out of the ring. Team 3D was about to put Styles through a table, but Rhino and Christian broke it up and put Devon through the table to eliminate him from the match. Rhino gored Brother Ray, but Angle snuck into the ring behind the heels and hit his three opponents with a chair.

During the break, Rhino tried to gore Angle, but Brother Ray pulled Kurt out of the way and Rhino charged through a table set up in the corner of the ring to eliminate himself. Dummy. Devon returned to the match and helped Ray hit 3D on Christian through a cage while Angle held the referee and prevented him from seeing the interference. The ref turned around, saw Christian lying on a broken table, and ruled that he was out of the match.

Johnny Devine ran out to help Brother Ray. He threw powder at Styles, but A.J. ducked and the powder blinded Ray. Brother Ray put Devine through a table because he was blinded and through he was putting Styles through a table. Moments later, Styles shot Angle into Ray, who fell off the ring apron and through a table at ringside for the elimination.

The match came down to Styles and Angle. A.J. placed Kurt on a table and then climbed to the top rope. Frank Trigg ran out and hit Styles with a kendo stick. Angle hit the Olympic Slam through a table to win the match...

Powell's POV: All that just for a repeat finish from the pay-per-view? Disappointing finish, but an entertaining garbage match. Not nearly as good as the pay-per-view match. Still a solid television match, though. Um, wasn't Sting supposed to be with the heels? Did I miss something or was that heel claim completely ignored once the match started?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 26 2008, 02:43 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-25-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report) (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26333.shtml")

1- Shelton Benjamin vs. Jimmy Wang Yang

Shelton got on the microphone before the match to plug his title win this past Sunday. Shelton got a big boot for two once the match started. It was all Benjamin until Yang nailed him with an enziguiri. The two traded missed kicks but Shelton hit Paydirt for three.

WINNER: Benjamin, at 2:12. Good, convincing win for the new U.S. Champ.

2- CURT HAWKINS vs. FESTUS

Festus came out firing on all cylinders, as per his usual. Hawkins had some success going after Festus’ legs, but Festus shoulderblocked him out of the ring. Jesse cut off Ryder from attempting to get at the ring bell outside. Back inside, Festus hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Festus, at 1:49.

After the match, the champs took care of Jesse, then gave a double Implant-DDT to Festus. I’m wondering if this attacking after the bell thing is going anywhere.

3- STEVIE RICHARDS vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV

JR noted that Stevie made a challenge for this match, a re-match from a few weeks ago. Stevie hit a modified bulldog, but couldn’t even get a one count. Kozlov grabbed Stevie for an overhead suplex. Arm-bar by Kozlov, but Richards dodged a charge and Kozlov dove out of the ring. He was right back in, only to be dropkicked by Stevie for one. After a missed kick, Kozlov hit his headbutt to the chest out of nowhere to get the win.

WINNER: Kozlov, at 3:00. Another good showing for Stevie.

Kozlov went to the announce table and yelled at the announcers. JR said Kozlov wanted better competition.

4- THE BIGGEST BLOCKBUSTER OF THE SUMMER BATTLE ROYAL

Again, winner will face Triple H for the WWE Title at SummerSlam. Mr. Kennedy came out first, followed by Great Khali (with the returning Ranjin Singh), MVP, Umaga, Jeff Hardy, and Big Show.

Mr. Kennedy played the role of Matt, letting Jeff jump off his back and into Khali in the corner. Khali and Show met in the middle of the ring and exchanged headbutts. Umaga put them both down with a savate kick as the show went to break.

All six were still in as the show came back from break. Jeff eliminated MVP at just under the seven-minute mark. About 1:30 later, Show tossed Umaga. Show fought off Hardy and Kennedy, then grabbed KK by the throat and threw him out. Umaga came back in and hit Show with a Samoan Spike, then Jeff jumped off the top and into Show’s arms. He used Show’s leverage against him to eliminate the big man. It was down to Khali and Jeff Hardy. Jeff hit the Swanton on Khali, but all it took was a chop to the head from Khali and Jeff was dead weight enough to be eliminated.

WINNER: Khali, at 10:25. Below-average battle royal.

As Khali celebrated, Triple H came out. He entered the ring and stood toe-to-toe with the giant. Singh convinced Khali to back off and they left HHH to pose in the ring.

5- MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MARYSE

Maryse got a take-down, then made the mistake of dancing. Dropkick to Maryse, who went to the apron. She pulled Michelle out of the ring and did some damage using the apron. Michelle landed on her feet on a second-rope moonsault, then locked in the heel hook for the submission.

WINNER: McCool, at 2:03.

6- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. SHANNON MOORE

JR said Kendrick reminded him of Brian Pillman. Yeah, but 75% less crazy. Kendrick got the mic(!) and told the fans they should feel privileged for witnessing the fastest, most intelligent (doesn’t HHH have that trademarked?) wrestler in WWE. He said if anyone was delusional enough to try to touch greatness (i.e. him), they’d have to deal with Ezekiel. Not a bad job for a guy who never got mic time.

Kendrick worked over Moore’s ribs with kicks and knees. Once Moore got the advantage, he got distracted by Ezekiel. Kendrick hit his finisher, re-named The Kendrick, for the win.

WINNER: Kendrick, at 1:45. I like this new Kendrick.

At the end of the show...

-Edge came out. He was not his usual cocky self. He said he wanted to apologize to his wife, in public and face-to-face. He asked Vickie to come out. She was wheeled out by Chavo, with Bam Neely at their side. Once in the ring, Vickie told Chavo and Bam that she could handle things herself, so they left.

Edge knelt down in front of Vickie, drawing lots of boos. He looked at the crowd with contempt. Awesome. Edge asked Vickie to hear him out. He said the video HHH showed didn’t show how many times he told Alicia now. He said she wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. Edge said he stayed to hammer out the details of their wedding, because he knew it meant so much to Vickie. He said he can’t live without her love.

Vickie said she understood, and they hugged. But Vickie turned away before they could make out. She said Edge needs to understand that Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. She said when she was mad, she did something Edge may not like. She said she re-instated Undertaker. Edge tried to control his shock, fear and anger. The crowd chanted for Taker. Edge finally said it was good business to bring him back and that while he and Vickie go on their honeymoon, HHH and Taker could destroy each other. Vickie said she’d already scheduled a SummerSlam opponent for Taker. Of course, it was Edge. Vickie cackled as she told him it would be Hell in a Cell. Edge sat in the ring looking up at Vickie in amazement as the show ended. Great segment that took the crowd on a roller-coaster ride. Edge was superb in his role, especially with his body language and facial expressions.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 29 2008, 02:27 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-28-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26358.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY & D-LO BROWN vs. BETH PHOENIX & SANTINO MARELLA

Santino scored a sudden roll-up on Kelly and celebrated as if he won the Super Bowl, World Series, Olympic gold, etc., etc. Beth was ecstatic for a second, but she got tired of the ultra-celebration. Beth wanted to keep it professional while Santino pondered a little extra post-game celebration. They shared an awkward moment standing apart, then Santino puckered up behind Beth's back. Santino tried to leave, but Beth grabbed him by the hair and yanked him back in for a big ole kiss on the lips. Beth smiled, then left the ring, leaving Santino quite pleased with himself.

WINNERS: Beth & Santino & great TV in 2:00. Well, I have no idea where this is leading to, but it's certainly entertaining. And, most importantly, it's TV PG. (1/2*)

2 -- World tag champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. JERRY LAWLER & MICHAEL COLE -- World Tag Title match

Referee was heavily mic'ed to create some noise with no announcers. Lawler took a beating for the first few minutes while Cole looked on with concern. Lawler wanted the piledriver on Cody, but DiBiase broke it up. Lawler stumbled into his corner and Cole helped him up, which the ref deemed a tag. Cole, the legal man, was dragged into the ring where he took a few awkward punches at Cody. This had decent heat, amazingly. Cody then clotheslined Cole awkwardly to the mat before making the pin for the win. Afterward, Lawler and the ref checked on Cole while the tag champs gloated. Cole sold it as if he were knocked out.

WINNERS: Cody & DiBiase in 4:00. Considering the circumstances, that wasn't too bad. At this point, WWE is just using the undercard matches to create entertaining TV without much focus on the actual in-ring wrestling product. (1/2*)

3 -- IC champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JAMIE NOBLE (w/Leyla) -- Intercontinental Title match

Kofi came out like a house of fire working over Noble in the ring. He landed the boom-boom leg drop, then flew off the top rope with a cross body block that Noble nearly rolled through into a three count. Noble tried a fireman's carry move, but Kofi slipped out and nailed the Jamaican buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. Leyla was impressed with Kofi post-match and certainly not with Noble.

WINNER: Kofi in 2:00 to retain the IC Title. Another short match heavy on stories aimed for kids with short-attention spans. TV PG. (3/4*)

4 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- non-title match

Regal, who sported a tank top to apparently cover his gut, worked over Punk early on. Punk accepted a hard elbow smash and came up bleeding profusely from his nose. That can't be TV PG. Regal continued to smash Punk with a very physical attack as Lawler made the comment that Punk hasn't looked this bad before as champion. Punk fired back at 4:00 with hard right hand blows followed by a roundhouse kick for a two count. Regal suddenly came back with an overhead German suplex. Regal wanted a submission, but Punk suddenly lifted up Regal on his shoulders and nailed the Go 2 Sleep in center ring for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Punk snorted blood out of his nose, the smiled with the title belt in his hands. JBL then entered the ring to confront Punk, but Kane's music interrupted. Kane walked out with bag in hand and suddenly smashed JBL. Punk then hit Kane, but JBL kicked Punk. Kane and JBL then had a face-to-face confrontation while Punk recovered on the mat. Kane seemed to enjoy the confrontation while JBL backed away.

WINNER: Punk in 5:00. That was a heck of physical wake-me-up-from-the-slumber match with Punk showing good fire at the end after Regal pounded away on him. Of course, post-match was Punk being punk'ed to establish two more potential contenders to the title. (*1/2)

5 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES vs. JILLIAN HALL -- non-title match

Jillian worked over Mickie to start things off while Ross and Lawler took turns throwing jabs at Adamle, who asked Ross if he was trying to take over the broadcast. Mickie then finished off Jillian with the elevated DDT for the win.

Post-match: Mickie hugged it out with her dad, then Katie Lea suddenly attacked her from behind and smashed her into the ringpost. Katie smiled at her work, then left while Mickie was KO'ed on the floor. Paul Burchill suddenly showed up and handed Katie the mic. Katie said that was for the new GM, whomever it is. She promised to be the next WWE Women's champion and said Burchill is the future IC champion.

WINNER: Mickie in 2:00. Good, quick win to set up Katie's attack on Mickie. Burchill was perfectly fine here not saying a word. He's better with fewer words. Katie's smirk is perfect for her character. (1/2*)

6 -- JOHN CENA & BATISTA vs. JBL & KANE

Cena and Batista cleaned house in the first two minutes, then they had a staredown before cutting to break.

They returned with Kane working over Cena in the default heel corner while Batista looked on. Cena fired back at 7:00, then caught Kane with an elbow in the corner. He tried to charge Kane, but Kane caught him with a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Batista then took a monster hot tag at 8:00 and cleaned house on JBL until JBL clotheslined him clean over the top rope to the floor. Back in the ring, Kane and JBL took turns working over Batista. Batista teased a comeback at 9:00 with ground-and-pound, but Kane smashed him back to the mat. JBL wanted the Clothesline from Hell, but Batista smashed him with a spear. JBL then accidentally nailed Kane with a punch when Batista ducked. That set off Kane, who entered the ring to chokeslam JBL, but Batista speared Kane. Cena then tagged in and nailed the FU on Kane for the pin and the win. Big pop for the victory after some initial boos.

WINNERS: Cena & Batista in 12:00. Nice, high-energy tag match. Wasn't the story by the end of the night, but a nice round of wrestling to cap the in-ring portion of the show. (**)

Post-match: Batista slowly entered the ring as Ross recapped Cena making a timely blind tag to win the match for their team. Shane McMahon then came out and said this is how they started this tonight. He announced the new GM...Mike Adamle. Oh no. Big boos for that. During the Shane entrance, Adamle snuck into the ring to stand between Cena and Batista. Adamle announced that for Summerslam, it's Cena vs. Batista. His announcement really killed the mood, as there was zero emotion behind that. They closed to dead air with Cena and Batista exchanging puzzled looks. So, we looking at Cole on ECW or Cole back to SD and Ross to...gulp...ECW?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on July 30 2008, 02:33 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 7-29-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26377.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neely) vs. RICKY "ATLAS DABONE" ORTIZ

Tazz called ole Ricky an odd bird for calling himself undefeated with only one match victory under his belt. Ortiz showed off his strength early on with a big press slam on Chavo. He followed with a hard elbow smash, then a torpedo shoulder smash from the second turnbuckle for a one count. Ortiz was too-aggressive in the corner, leading to Chavo nailing a drop toe hold in the corner. Chavo then tried to roll up Ortiz with Bam helping him with additional leverage, but the ref spotted the outside assistance and called for a DQ.

Post-match: Bam gave Ortiz a big full nelson slam before Chavo went up top and nailed a frog splash on a KO'ed Ortiz. Chavo wasn't done, though. He told Bam to retrieve an object, but suddenly Evan Bourne hit the ring and cleared Chavo, then Bam with successive dropkicks. Bourne then took off running, leaving Chavo and Bam frustrated in the ring.

WINNER: Ortiz via DQ in 4:00. Fine. Good use of Bourne. (*)

2 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE

Finlay and Hornswoggle played some games early on with the former tag champs, then landed dual sit-down splashes to clear them to the outside. M&M tried to hide their embarrassment as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz and Morrison worked over Finlay for an extended length of time while Hornswoggle kinda wanted a hot tag. OK, Miz and Morrison are definitely a more-credible tag team than six months ago, but Finlay taking the isolated beating from the heels just wasn't believable here. Finlay then opted not to make the tag to Hornswoggle, instead firing up with offense on the heels. He delivered the Celtic Cross on Morrison, but Morrison kicked out. Hornswoggle then made a blind tag for himself and went for a head scissors, but Morrison wheel barrow slammed him hard into the mat. Morrison rolled him over, then made a cover for the win.

Post-match: The Mountain Man Mike Knox jumped into the ring and smashed Finlay in the face. He knocked out Finlay with a second boot to the face, then quickly left the ring. Awkward.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 12:00. Good win for the former tag champs, even if it came at the expense of the non-wrestling Hornswoggle. They just need a TV victory at this point. (*)

3 -- MATT HARDY vs. COLIN DELANEY (w/ECW champion Mark Henry and Tony Atlas)

Colin came out with his help, but they didn't come to ringside as promised. Colin wasn't too concerned about them waiting on top of the ramp, then he locked up with Hardy to start things off. Hardy dominated and kept checking the ramp to see if Henry and Atlas would be making any move to the ringside area. Colin suddenly landed a missile dropkick that drew an applause from Henry.

Hardy came back with a back suplex while Henry's expression turned to agitation. Hardy rapped Colin in the mouth with a right hand, then came off the middle rope with an elbow to the neck. Hardy landed the side effect, then called for the end. He then nailed the Twist of Fate in center ring for the easy win.

WINNER: Hardy in 4:00. Got the point across in an entertaining fashion. Poor Colin is getting ripped physically in the ring and verbally on commentary. He's in no-man's land of being a non-sympathetic heel with no credibility in the ring. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 01 2008, 10:06 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-31-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26401.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Jacqueline Moore) vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE & RHINO -- #1 Contender's match

Basic exchange to start things off and set the table. Heels took advantage for a second, then an even exchange to lead into commercial.

Christian took a hot tag at 8:00 and wanted a frog splash on Storm, but Brother Ray came to ringside to run interference. Christian took him out with a splash, then Rhino smashed Johnny Devine. Rhino smashed Storm with a Gore for the pin, but the ref was yanked out of the ring. Brother Devon became involved, but Miss Jackie got involved. More stupidity ensued with interference and ridiculousness until Rhino took a 3D in the ring. Storm then rolled over and draped an arm over Rhino for the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 10:00. Just a ridiculous, classically over-done TNA TV match. (n/a)

2 -- JOHNNY DEVINE & LANCE HOYT & JIMMY RAVE (w/Christy Hemme) vs. CURRY MAN & SHARK BOY & BLACK MACHISMO JAY LETHAL (w/So Cal Val)

They're doing video game ring entrances for some of the wrestlers and it's becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between the video game and the actual wrestlers. Not because the video game graphics are so tight, but because this show is just a cartoon/comic book/video game. Christy became involved and Curry played air guitar on her stomach. After Shark Boy took out Hoyt and Rave on the floor, Lethal won it with the Lethal Combination on Devine.

Post-match: Lethal took the mic and welcomed Val into the ring. He went down on one knee to pop the question again, but Val didn't have the engagement ring on. She said she must have lost it or something. Lethal snapped and said she must not have even wanted to marry him in the first place. He left the ring in a huff as usual.

WINNERS: Team Lethal in 4:00. Post-match took precedence as usual. Not much here, just building to Lethal vs. Dutt at the PPV. (1/2*)

3 -- CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. X Division champion PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Rhaka Khan) -- non-title match

Hermie Sadler was at the broadcast position to comment on the match and stretch some NASCAR analogies into a wrestling context. It's never a good sign when the referee appears to be larger than the wrestlers in the ring. Creed laid out Petey in center ring, but Creed missed with a top rope leg drop. Petey tried to follow with the Destroyer, but Creed blocked and rolled him up with a sunset pin for the win.

WINNER: Creed in 4:00.

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. SAL RINAURO

Sal was sporting an outfit that consisted of one pant leg and one cut-off leg. Memorable, but ridiculous fashion choice. Morgan squashed Rinauro with vertical suplex into a swinging slam - the Hellevator - for the easy win. Don West said Rinauro just joined the mile high club. That's just wrong.

WINNER: Morgan in 1:00. Squash. (n/a)

5 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY vs. GAIL KIM & Knockouts champion TAYLOR WILDE

Heels were in control as they prepared to take a break. Prior to going to break, they showed Samoa Joe climbing a flight of stairs leading to the rafters to hopefully get a word with Sting.

Action broke down after the break with all four women becoming involved in the action. Heels tried to double-team Taylor in the ring, but she rolled up Velvet with a sunset flip with the help of a dropkick from Gail. Taylor scored the pin on Velvet for the win.

Post-match: Angelina and Velvet jumped the champ for another beat down attempt, but Gail made the save. Suddenly, Awesome Kong stormed the ring as the "surprise" third person. She knocked around Gail, then Taylor and landed a double clothesline. Gail took an Awesome Bomb, then Taylor was lined up and given the Bomb. ODB, dressed as a hobo, then stormed the ring and stared down Kong. Roxxi even tried to join the action with steel chair in hand. Kong then backed away from the bum and bald girl. Suddenly, Traci Brooks showed up on the entrance ramp to survey the scene.

WINNERS: Gail & Taylor in 7:00. Post-match took precedence over the match, which was OK, but it didn't feel like anything special to warrant a main event slot. Just a run-of-the-mill knockouts segment.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2008, 03:45 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-1-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26405.shtml).

1- MVP vs. JIMMY WANG YANG

MVP chastised Hardy once again on the mic before the match. He said he’d show Hardy how a champion operates. MVP dominated the match, save for a few spurts by Yang. MVP took a soft whip into the corner and Yang hit him with a spinning heel kick. He made a mistake coming off the top, and Montel Vontavious Porter turned it into a gut-buster. Straight kick to the head by MVP ended it.

WINNER: MVP, at 2:30. Good showcase match for MVP.

2- MR. KENNEDY vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

After Kennedy got some offense in, Shelton took a break on the outside. Both JR and Foley noted Kennedy’s lack of wins lately. Lots of basic back-and-forth action. Kennedy stayed on the left arm of Shelton. Kennedy hit his roundhouse kick, but Shelton tripped him up on a running kick attempt. Shelton pulled his arm right into the post, injuring the shoulder.

Benjamin had Kennedy in Chris Jericho move #973 (arm-bar) upon return from break. Cross arm-breaker by Benjamin. Kennedy found a body part to work on, himself- the leg of Shelton. Crowd doesn’t seem to be enthralled with the pace of the match. Cross-body out of nowhere by Shelton for a near-fall. Mic Check by Kennedy put things away.

WINNER: Kennedy, at 14:07. There goes Shelton’s momentum. This match shouldn’t have even been made. Kennedy needed a win, yes, but Shelton also needed to keep winning, so people won’t think it’s another start-stop-start push with him. Just a bad match-up all-around.

3- THE BRIAN KENDRICK vs. STEVIE RICHARDS

Kendrick did some mic work before the match, saying he hasn’t changed his personality at all. He talked about teaming with Paul London, putting on a fake smile to get his foot in the door. He then tore down the fans. Kendrick used his feet to his advantage and put Richards in a type of Dragon Sleeper. Boston Crab applied by Kendrick. No offense in the first two minutes from Stevie. The Kendrick missed a splash and Stevie was a fireball of offense. Lo-Down from Stevie for two. Richards kicked Kendrick in the head, right off the apron and into the arms of Ezekiel. Kendrick draped Richards throat-first over the top rope, then hit The Kendrick for the win.

WINNER: The Brian Kendrick, at 3:46.

4- THE GREAT KHALI vs. JEFF HARDY

Hardy tried attacking Khali up high for some reason, and ended up running into a clothesline. Khali worked over Hardy in the corner, with elbows and boots. Another elbow from Khali. One-armed bodyslam by Khali. Hard slap to Hardy’s chest in the corner. Hardy fought back, but got sent over the top rope by Khali, where he lay on the mat on the floor as they went to break.

Khali brought Hardy back in, as JR noted he didn’t want to win by count-out. Nerve hold applied by Khali. Hardy fought back again, and hit Whisper in the Wind, then the Swanton. MVP came down to ringside and Hardy dropkicked him through the ropes, then hit a plancha onto him. Hardy fought it out with MVP as Charles Robinson used his discretion to let things go. Khali pulled Hardy back in....by the head. Vice grip applied, and that’s all she wrote.

WINNER: Khali, at 11:34. Fine for what it was, but Khali makes an 11-minute match feeling like 21 minutes.

5- MARIA vs. VICTORIA

This is Maria’s Smackdown debut. Waist-lock take-down by Victoria to start things off. Victoria got a one-count on a pin attempt. She really laid in the trash talking. Maria caught Victoria coming back into the ring, but she couldn’t fully take over offense. Scoop slam by Victoria for two. Full-nelson from Victoria and Maria began to fade. Maria backed Victoria into the corner to break the hold. Sunset flip by Maria for two. Maria got the pin on a clothesline off the top that.....let’s say “gently grazed” Victoria.

WINNER: Maria, at 3:19. Not an impressive return to the ring for Maria.

6- THE BIG SHOW vs. DOMINO

Show deposited Domino to the outside immediately. Show face-planted Domino, who then got mad and threw his shirt in Show’s face. Just makes it easier for Show to slap Domino in the chest. Chokeslam, goodbye Domino.

WINNER: Show, at 1:17.

Umaga came out after the match. He and Big Show circled each other, but didn’t do any damage.

-Edge came out for The Cutting Edge. With the lights down low, Edge took a seat in the ring and said all week, he’s been looking for inner peace. He seemed barely able to control his emotions as the crowd cheered for Undertaker. He said every time he closes his eyes, all he sees is the Undertaker. He said tonight, he has surrounded himself with HIS instruments of destruction- tables, ladders and chairs. Edge said he found the person that will survive and thrive in Hell in a Cell...a person who knows Undertaker better than anyone in history. That person is the guest tonight on the Cutting Edge. That person is....Mick Foley. I had a feeling he was going there. Foley had no idea he was the guest. I refer you to my latest blog posted on the Torch website as to my feelings about this.

Foley obliged Edge and entered the ring. Edge told Foley to look past their history because there’s something eating away at Foley. Edge had a video package ready to show Mick what he was talking about. The video package talked about the year 1998, and WWE’s Attitude Era. The video then talked about, and showed, the Hell in a Cell with Foley vs. Taker. The narrator of the video asked if that night would be the legacy of the Hardcore Legend.

Edge told Foley his body feels that match every day still. Edge said Foley doesn’t walk the same as he did before the match happened. Edge said he still sees that fire burn inside Mick. Edge implored Mick to help him, and thus exorcise the demons Foley is still feeling. Foley said there’s a part of him that would like to help Edge, but the last few weeks, Edge hurt Foley’s credibility. Foley said he’s built up his bond with fans, and he has often said Edge is the greatest superstar in WWE. He said the problem is, the fans think he sucks. Foley said Edge has cheated to win and hurt Foley’s credibility. He said he can’t help, but one other person can....Edge himself. Foley said he needs to find the Edge that made Foley call him the greatest superstar in WWE. Foley told him to find the Edge that took Foley himself to the limits in a hardcore match. Foley made fun of Edge and what he has done to woo Vickie. Foley said if he brings that Edge to SummerSlam, and Undertaker would tear him apart. Edge said he understood, then sucker-punched Foley. Foley fought back on the outside and went under the ring for a chair. Edge kicked it into Foley’s face though. He then speared Foley, and Mick’s head bounced off the steel steps, though not with the force I’m sure he would’ve liked. Foley climbed back into the ring and applied the mandible claw. Edge low-blowed him, then placed him on the table. Edge came off the ladder, steel chair in hand, and onto Foley. They showed replays of what just happened as Edge stood over the prone body of Mick Foley.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 03 2008, 02:11 pm
WWE SNME Results: 8-2-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26414.shtml)

1 -- JOHN CENA & BATISTA & CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & J.T.G.) vs. JBL & KANE & World tag champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.

Back and forth to start things off with no one in clear control.

They returned from break with the heel team working over Shad Gaspar. They worked him over for a good, long time. An eight-man tag with editing should not have four or five minutes of extended babyface isolation. Nevertheless, Cena and JBL took tags and Cena cleaned house to a chorus of boos. Cena hit the Five Knuckle Shuffle on JBL, then wanted the FU, but Kane kicked Cena square in the head. Batista then entered and cleaned house on everyone. Cena then tagged out to JTG, who Cena launched onto DiBiase. Unfortunately, DiBiase wasn't legal to be pinned, so JBL re-entered the picture and smashed JTG with a Clothesline from Hell for the pin and the win. Announcers made the point that JBL seems deserving of a World Title shot.

WINNERS: Team JBL in 12:00. Fine showcase match of several stars at once. Punk held his own on commentary and they got across the larger point of the men competing for a potential title shot against Punk at Summerslam. (*1/2)

2 -- GREAT KHALI (w/Singh) vs. Jimmy Wang Yang

Ross commented on Khali being a national sports hero in India like Yao Ming in China. Yang tried to attack Khali from the ropes, but Khali quickly knocked him down to the mat. He landed the chokebomb and put a boot on the chest for the pin and the win. Ross said it could be a long night at Summerslam for Triple H.

WINNER: Khali in 2:00. Squash. No sign of Triple H to hammer home the point, though. (n/a)

3 -- JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE

Nice back-and-forth start, then Hardy and Edge took it to the floor where Hardy was rammed into the guardrail. They cut to break with Hardy in peril.

They returned with Edge playing the classic cocky heel working over Hardy in the ring. Edge worked over the left knee for a while, with Hardy unable to pull off his classic moves until catching Edge with a swinging slam in mid-ring. Hardy wanted the Twist of Fate at 10:00, but Edge blocked and nailed an impaler DDT for a close nearfall. Edge's eyes bugged out of his head, then he set up for the spear, but Hardy side-stepped him on one good leg, then flew off the top with a Whisper in the Wind out of nowhere. Hardy made a cover, but it was only good for a nearfall. His leg gave out again, then he ducked a spear amazingly. Both men were laid out, then MVP snuck over to the ringside area from the crowd and smashed Hardy with a Chono boot to the head. Edge then came to and speared Hardy for the pin and the win. Hardy was KO'ed post-match while Edge hobbled out of the ring to close the show.

WINNER: Edge in 14:00. Nice match. Two top performers having a solid showcase battle on broadcast TV. MVP's interference was subtle-enough to be heat-inducing, not eye-rolling inducing. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 03 2008, 10:14 pm
Ring of Honor Results: 8-2-08

Results courtesy of Jeff Capo and ROHWrestling.com:

Death Before Dishonor VI
August 2nd, 2008- 7:30 pm belltime
Manhattan Center (Hammerstein Ballroom)
311 West 34th St.
New York, NY 10001

RESULTS

1) Jay & Mark Briscoe defeat Jigsaw & Ruckus with a springboard Doomsday Device in a fun opener.

~SNS Inc. is out. Larry Sweeney asks the Briscoes to join SNS Inc. They blow him off. Hero cuts a promo calling himself the Knockout Kid.

2) Chris Hero defeats Delirious with a roaring elbow. Hero didn't look great for the second night in a row, and the match kind of stunk. People from the back came to help Delirious out post-match.

3) Eddie Edwards defeats Roderick Strong with help from Chris Hero. Edwards hit a KO'd Strong with a moonsault. Pretty good match.

4) NWA World Championship: Brent Albright defeats Adam Pearce via submission to win the NWA World Championship in an amazing old school contest. Pearce busted Albright open with headbutts and bites. SNS Inc. attempted to interfere, but Roderick Strong returned and ran them off with a chair, including kicking it right in Larry Sweeney's face. Pearce tries everything from the Figure 4 to the STFU! Albright locks in the Crowbar but Pearce gets to the ropes. Albright goes up top but Pearce shoves him off the top through a table. Albright comes back, and gets Pearce in the Crowbar one more time. Pearce can't get to the ropes and taps. Crowd went nuts for the finish.

5) Austin Aries defeats Jimmy Jacobs & Necro Butcher in a 3 way dance. Jimmy and Necro came out hugging and shaking hands but it didn't last. Jimmy broke up a Necro pin and got in his face telling Necro to do what Jimmy tells him to do. Necro hit Jimmy with a chair and left the match. Aries hits a 450 for the pin.

~Delirious came to the ring and called out Daizee Haze. He asks her out on a date. Rhett Titus comes out and calls her used goods, then removes his pants, revealing her on the back of his trunks like Rick Rude used to do to Cheryl Roberts. Delirious runs off Titus, but Haze nicely turns down Delirious. Crowd turned on Haze for saying no.

6) Naomichi Marufuji defeats Go Shiozaki with the Pole Shift. Match started off slowly, but really picked up late.

7) Kevin Steen & El Generico defeat Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin via submission when Sabin goes down to the Sharpshooter. Generico took out Shelley with a top rope brainbuster. Great stuff. Lots of high flying.

8 ) ROH World Championship: Nigel McGuinness defeats Claudio Castagnoli, Bryan Danielson, and Tyler Black to once again retain the ROH World Championship.

~Dragon eliminated Claudio first. They shook hands, but Claudio snapped. He attacked Dragon with a chair and stomped it in to his head.

~Nigel eliminated Dragon next easily with a lariat.

~Nigel eliminated Tyler Black after Tyler kicked out of EVERYTHING Nigel could throw at him. It took everything in Nigel's arsenal, but after two huge lariats Black finally had nothing left.

NOTES:
Ring of Honor returns to Manhattan on December 27 for Final Battle 2008.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 04 2008, 12:20 pm
Ric Flair Done With WWE?
Posted by Larry Csonka on 08.03.2008

It looks that way...

According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, representatives of Ric Flair have told several Independent promoters that Flair will be available for Independent bookings, due to the fact that he has now parted ways with the WWE. It is being explained as an friendly parting of the ways, and it is related to the WWE not allowing Flair to take Independent offers that he wanted to accept.

Credit: Wrestlingobserver.com/F4wonline.com
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 05 2008, 02:20 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-4-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26427.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) -- Intercontinental Title match

Burchill worked over Kingston early, but Kingston came back with the boom-boom leg drop and the fluid buzzsaw kick to the head for the clean win. It seemed quite unusual for Kingston to simply hit his combo without much resistance from Burchill, as if the viewer was expecting a counter. Instead, Kingston with the clean combo win. Afterward, Katie tried to get in Kingston's face to run distraction, but Kingston avoided Burchill, who flew to the outside. Kingston then chased Burchill to the back, leaving Katie in the ring. Mickie James's music hit, and Mickie charged the ring to defend her title against Katie in the next match.

WINNER: Kingston in 4:00. Short, clean win for Kingston. Burchill doesn't have much credibility at this point, but it was a good win for Kingston. (*)

2 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES vs. KATIE LEA -- Women's Title match

They returned with the action in progress. Announcers talked about Katie attacking Mickie in front of her father last week to set up Mickie's quest for revenge tonight. Mickie dominated out of the break, but Katie caught her with a slingshot smash across the middle rope for a nearfall. Katie then slapped on a bow and arrow, but Mickie slipped out into a pin attempt for a nearfall of her own. Mickie landed a head scissors out of the corner, then built some momentum with forearm smashes before landing a neckbreaker for a two count. Katie tried to come back with a stalker kick, but Mickie blocked and landed her spike DDT for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Beth Phoenix jumped Mickie from behind and tossed her through the ropes to the outside. Beth then rammed Mickie hard into the ring apron before rolling her back into the ring. Dude ringside shouted, "Give her a kiss!" Beth took Mickie back into the ring to inflict more punishment, where she landed an implant-buster wheelbarrow slam. Santino then walked out on stage giving Beth a round of applause for her dominating work. Beth then walked up the stage and smiled at Santino before grabbing a handful of butt cheek. Beth turned away to celebrate, then Santino grabbed a little cheek in return. Beth smiled and slowly walked away.

WINNER: Mickie in 5:00. Great, great segment. Very good women's match that the audience really bought into. Good to see WWE paying attention to what TNA has been doing with the knockouts to give their divas a credible TV push. And now we get the best of both worlds with Beth, as she's back to being an ***-kicker to go with the entertainment with Santino. (*1/2)

3 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. JBL & CHRIS JERICHO -- handicap match

Before the match started, Adamle threw out one more stipulation: it's a 10-minute time limit. If there is no winner, then it's a triple threat at Summerslam. Nice. JBL and Jericho spent the first 15 seconds arguing over the new rules until Punk tried to attack them. The heels quickly regrouped, though, and started beating on Punk. Jericho went to the second rope and kissed his fist Lawler-style before delivering a punch to the skull. "That looked familiar," Lawler interjected with a whisper. Jericho has certainly been more of a mat technician in this match with the new trunks and new attitude.

At 5:00, Punk hip-tossed out of an ab stretch, but JBL was quick to jump Punk from behind. JBL and Jericho started arguing about who was going to pin Punk, leading to them brawling in the ring. Punk took a breather in the corner, but Jericho hit the Lionsault on Punk and had a pin that JBL broke up. More brawling between Jericho and JBL led to Punk smashing the heels into the corner. Crowd rallied behind Punk, who smashed Jericho with a flying smash. He dropped JBL with a bulldog, then Jericho and JBL collided. Punk went for the G2S on JBL and he nailed it. Punk made the cover, but Jericho broke it up just in time. Whew.

Jericho tried to fire off on Punk, but Punk nailed a powerslam for a nearfall with two minutes left. Punk then catapulted Jericho into JBL and had a roll-up on Jericho, but Jericho kicked out just in time. He wanted the G2S on Jericho, but Jericho slipped out and put the Walls of Jericho on. Punk fought the hold with 50 seconds remaining. He shook his head at 45. He reached out at 40. Jericho dragged him back in at 35. JBL re-entered at 30 and kicked Jericho in the head. JBL shoved Jericho to the floor, and with 10 seconds left, JBL came to. Jericho then slingshot JBL across the top rope and JBL fell backward on top of Punk. He scored the pin with just one second left to earn the World Title shot against Punk.

WINNER: JBL at 9:59 to become #1 Contender. That was a heck of a TV match. Excellent final five minutes with the crowd hanging on every second of the action. Punk had a very strong showing working within the stack-the-deck formula. (***)

4 -- KANE vs. MATT STRIKER

Kane quickly clotheslined Striker hard to the mat before landing a hard uppercut and a big boot to the mush. Kane picked up Striker and landed a clothesline/sidewalk slam combo before going up top. Kane landed a leaping clothesline before calling for the end. Striker then slipped into a chokeslam and Kane made the quick pin for the win to end the school-related clichés from Cole and Lawler.

WINNER: Kane in 2:00. Quick and relatively painless. (n/a)

5 -- World tag team champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. JOHN CENA & BATISTA -- World Tag Title match

Crowd was buzzing for this early on. Batista dominated Cody, even threw in a leap frog, and smashed Cody with a clothesline. Cena just smiled from the ring apron as Batista was turning this into a two-on-one match. Batista then missed with a shoulder tackle in the corner and sold a shoulder injury. Batista in jeopardy as they cut to break.

They returned with the champs working over Batista while Cena tried to reach out for a tag. Batista finally broke free and tagged in Cena, who exploded out of the corner as the crowd came to life. Cena dropped Cody in center ring and nailed the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He wanted the FU, but DiBiase made a blind tag from behind. Cody then DDT'ed Cena before rolling out of the ring to let DiBiase work over Cena. Fans chanted, "Let's go Cena" as the champs took turns working over Cena with nearfalls-a-plenty. Cody acted tough and slapped Cena, then blocked a punch, and nailed a Russian legsweep. The improvement from Cody is unmistakable.

Cena finally had an opportunity to make the hot tag to Batista, but Batista quietly walked around the ringpost to the other side of the ring apron, allowing DiBiase to regain his attack on Cena. The heels cornered him again, then Cena finally escaped with a sidewalk slam. He walked over to his corner to tag Batista, but Cena slapped Batista in the face instead. Cena and Batista had a confrontation, then Batista exploded out of the corner with an attack on DiBiase and Cody. Batista caught DiBiase with a spinebuster, then he turned to stare down Cena. Batista then dropped DiBiase with a spear and called for the Batistabomb while looking at Cena. Cena did his part by taking out Rhodes while Batista finished off DiBiase with a Batistabomb to win the match and the tag titles.

Post-match: Batista grabbed both title belts before shoving one belt into Cena's chest. They stared each other down before Cena raised his tag belt high in the air. Batista then held his title belt high in the air, each man measuring the crowd response. Pretty even. They backed away slightly, then Cena held his belt up real high for the audience to get a good look. Batista then walked across the ring for the other side to get a good look. Cena to the other side. Batista to the corner turnbuckle. Cena to the other corner for a huge kids-and-women pop. Batista had enough and walked over to Cena in center ring. They stared down each other as Cena's music hit to close the show.

WINNERS: Batista & Cena in 14:00 to capture the World Tag Titles. Very good main event match. I don't agree with Rhodes & DiBiase losing the belts on the principle that they were really starting to click as a tag team unit that could have a lengthy title run, but it's obvious why WWE pulled the trigger on the switch. Rhodes & DiBiase really rose to the occasion in this match with their tag team work on the established stars. Good story, good action, hot crowd, nice conclusion to the show. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 06 2008, 02:36 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 8-5-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26443.shtml)

1 -- CHAVO GUERRERO & BAM NEELY vs. RICKY ORTIZ & EVAN BOURNE

Striker quickly won some points in Minnesota by referencing Bam's background from Robbinsdale, Minn., where the likes of Rick Rude and Curt Hennig came from. Match started with some back-and-forth action while the announcers talked about Bourne scoring an upset victory over Chavo a few weeks ago. Bourne took a hot tag at 5:00 and nailed Bam with a sweet double-knee smash from the top rope. Ortiz and Guerrero spilled to the outside, leaving Boruen and Bam in the ring. Bourne snuck underneath Bam and rolled him up with a unique bridge pin for the win. Striker was willing to admit that was quite impressive from Bourne.

WINNERS: Bourne & Ortiz in 5:00. Very nice finish by Bourne, who is officially a star on ECW. Nicely done. (*)

2 -- ARMANDO ESTRADA vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Colin Delaney showed up two minutes into the match wielding a chair. He wanted to take out Dreamer, but Dreamer scared him away into Striker's lap. Dreamer nearly walked into a boot to the face back in the ring, but he avoided the move. Delaney then hopped onto the apron to distract Dreamer, allowing Armando to roll up Dreamer from behind for the win to apparently earn an ECW contract.

WINNER: Armando in 3:00. Random deal here, as the match came out of nowhere when Dreamer was off last week's show and Armando has been a forgotten man for some time. Oh well. (1/2*)

3 -- BRADEN WALKER vs. JAMES CURTIS

Announcers played up Walker as if he's never wrestled before entering the WWE Universe. Considering no other wrestling organization exists in WWE's world, it's par for the course. Some basic wrestling ensued, then Walker landed a running left-arm clothesline. Grisham proclaimed Walker is a big fan of the clothesline. Apparently Walker has been watching some Nigel matches. Walker then finished off Curtis with a fisherman suplex for the win.

WINNER: Walker in 4:00. This was your ECW main event. Not exactly the four-way deal from two weeks ago. (1/2*)

Dirt Sheet: Howard Finkel introduced the Dirt Sheet segment, then they cut to the ring where Morrison and Miz were seated on their Hollywood director chairs. They kept the lights down for Morrison and Miz to introduce themselves. Morrison said he turned down $15 million from People Magazine for pictures of himself as a baby. Nice line. They brought out their first guest, ECW champion Mark Henry. They cut to a graphic of Henry's face on the Titantron to do a Conan-like segment where someone's mouth moves on the still-picture. This died rather quickly. Was that Ole Anderson doing the voice-over for the Shockmaster?

Mark Henry had enough of this act, and it was time for somebody to get his or her *** kicked, as Henry's music hit. Henry stormed the ring with Tony Atlas following close behind. Atlas spoke for Henry that there must be some sort of misunderstanding because they were not led to believe there would be disrespect for Henry. Miz and Morrison said if they were going to disrespect anyone, it would be Matt Hardy. Cue up Henry's mug on the Titantron with the voice saying something stupid.

Henry spoke to the Hardy lips on the Titantron, then Matt Hardy came to the ring sarcastically applauding this rough bit. Hardy waited out the applause, then Hardy drew the conclusion that Miz & Morrison must be huge Conan O'Brien fans to come up with such great, original content. Hardy said he just wanted to join the party, then he threw out the Brokeback Mountain line about Miz and Morrison. Hardy said he earned the ECW Title shot at Summerslam because in life and in high-priofile matches, there are winners and there are losers. He mocked them with their line to be jealous.

Miz and Morrison had enough of Hardy disrespecting them on their show, which led to a mini-skirmish. Morrison then accidentally punched Henry in the face, which upset the angry ECW champion. Henry squashed Morrison in the corner, then Hardy dropped Miz with a Twist of Fate. Henry and Hardy were left in the ring sharing a little bit of respect for each other to close the show. Tag match next week anyone?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2008, 10:18 am
TNA Impact! Results: 8-7-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26455.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACQUELINE vs. ROXXI -- Bimbo brawl -- Traci Brooks referee

I wonder how much Roxxi is paying her stylist to keep the head shaved for TV. She almost looks normal without hair, but not quite. Traci was solid on the mat counting nearfalls here. Good form, clear call to the timekeeper, and she held firm in discussions with the participants. In other words, she's better than the male referees due to TNA depending on the referee incompetence formula in the majority of matches. Roxxi ended this in four minutes with the voodoo drop after taking a few trashcan lid shots to the head.

WINNER: Roxxi in 4:00. Totally fine. Traci > TNA refs. (1/2*)

2 -- SONJAY DUTT vs. CURRY MAN

Bell never sounded, so this match isn't official. Not that it matters. Val came to ringside a minute into the action looking for her ring. Dutt told her to hit the bricks, giving Curry an opening to take control of the match. Dutt then used his feet on the ropes to score a pin with the roll-up.

Post-match: Dutt gave Curry a low blow, then Val slipped into the ring to demand answers on where her ring is. Dutt backed out of the ring, only to find Shark Boy attack him from behind. Super Eric then provided back-up to give Dutt a press slam in the ring. He reached into Dutt's trunks to find the wedding ring. Why in the world Dutt would wrestle with a ring in his tights is beyond me. Val then screamed at Dutt after defending him for so long. Dutt gave an excuse that when Val visited him in the hospital, the ring dropped into his lap for safe-keeping. He said maybe it was a message that she was ready to leave Jay Lethal for him. Dutt said he cares about Val, and he's thrilled she got her ring back. They shared a nice hug with Dutt breathing a sigh of relief that he lied his way back into Val's good graces. West had a random voice-over about this guy.

WINNER: Um, oh yeah, there was a match. Dutt in 3:00. Just more of the same with this program. (1/2*)

2 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (CHRIS SABIN & ALEX SHELLEY) vs. JAY LETHAL & CONSEQUENCES CREED

Tenay provided some notes from Cornette that Daivari will be at Hard Justice this Sunday, and some information is available on him at TNA's website. Also from Cornette, the main event eight-man gauntlet match tonight will start with A.J. Styles and Kurt Angle. This turned into a video game-style match with a lot of spots in sequence without a whole lot of selling. Creed nearly finished off Shelley with the TKO, but Guns came back with a Swanton Bomb combo on Creed for a nearfall. Shelley tried to finish off Creed with Sliced Bread #2, but Creed rolled up Shelley in the corner for the win. Afterward, Creed wanted to shake hands, but Shelley piefaced him and walked away. We need follow-up on that, instead, they cut to Karen's Angle.

WINNERS: Creed & Lethal in 8:00. A team teaming together for the first time beat one of TNA's only good tag teams. Just a video-game style match that was fun, but had zero psychology and was there for what it was worth. (*1/2)

3 -- TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) and BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE & RHINO and LAX (HERNANDEZ & HOMICIDE w/Hector Guerrero) -- No DQ tables match

Rhino delivered a Gore to all of the heels to start things off. Heels rolled to the floor to recover, but Homicide nailed a suicide dive. Christian splashed Ray, then Hernandez flew over the top rope with a splash on Rhino and Roode.

A lot of spots ensued after the commercial break, as men flew all over the ring and floor. 3D tried the what's up diving headbutt on Hernandez, but Hernandez escaped. Christian then spit beer into Storm's face, leading to Homicide nailing the Gringo killer on Storm for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Johnny Devine came to ringside and gave Ray a kendo stick to use to blast the winners. Hernandez took a 3D, then Christian took a hangmen's neck breaker from Beer Money. Devine and Devon then brought the glass table into the ring. Instead of going for Christian, they grabbed Homicide and put him through the glass table with a combo powerbomb. Tenay and West with canned voice-overs that they hope it's not too bad with Homicide's obvious injuries.

WINNERS: LAX & Christian & Rhino in 6:00. Just another example of the actual wrestling match not even mattering, as the post-match usually takes precedence over anything from bell-to-bell. Post-match gave reason for the heels to get their comeuppance at the PPV, though.

4 -- AWESOME KONG (w/Beautiful People and Raisha Saeed) vs. SALINAS

Salinas was dressed for a fiesta or a night at an L.A. club rather than a wrestling match. Tenay said Homicide was taken to a hospital. Kong nearly knocked Salinas out of her booty shorts right away with the Awesome Bomb in center ring. Quick pin for the win.

WINNER: Kong in 1:00. I'm still not sure why wrestling matches occur on this show. I liked the set-up to the six-woman tag match until Abyss randomly became involved. I'm fine with Abyss on the show, but we have no context for his random appearances. (n/a)

5 -- GAUNTLET

A.J. Styles and Kurt Angle started things off with a fight in the ring. Matt Morgan and Tomko then came out as the third and fourth participants. They had a sword fight with Morgan scaring Tomko out of the ring. Morgan then got all giddy and chased Tomko out of the ringside area to the outside. B.G. James and Kip James came out as the fifth and sixth participants. Where has Kip been? They picked up their feud with a brawl on the outside. This is a battle royale last I checked. B.G. then carefully placed a chair into Kip's throat for both men to take a breather. Back in the ring, Angle started bleeding like a leaky faucet when he took a ladder shot to the head. The editing showed that he immediately started bleeding. Scary scary stuff. Booker and Joe were the final two participants in the deal.

During the break, Kip was eliminated. Styles then eliminated Angle and Booker eliminated Styles. On the floor, Angle put Styles in the anklelock with Angle still bleeding profusely. Final four were Morgan, Tomko, Joe, and Booker. Morgan is just so not-fluid in the ring. Tomko and Booker then mercifully eliminated Morgan. The heels then double-teamed Joe in the ring. Booker started talking trash, but Joe eliminated him. So, now it's Joe vs. Tomko in a one-on-one deal. Joe hit the musclebuster, then made the cover on Tomko for the win.

Post-match: Joe took the mic afterward and screamed Booker's name. He said he's taking back his belt at the PPV, then Sting is next. Sting's music hit, the lights went down, then Sting appeared at the top of the rafters looking down at Joe.

WINNER: Joe in 13:00. Just your good 'ole fashioned TNA gauntlet match with a lot of extracurricular activity before Joe finally looked good with a solid victory. Rushed, but fine for putting a cap on the Hard Justice PPV hype. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 11 2008, 01:11 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-8-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Rich Twilling's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002390.shtml). Partly condensed here for easy reading.

1. Natalya, Maryse, and Victoria defeated Michelle McCool, Cherry, and Maria in an Olympic divas match in 2:35. All of the divas came out in various Olympic event outfits. Maryse came out in tennis gear and Tazz said he played a lot of tennis in Brooklyn. Funny. Cherry came out in boxing gear so she wins for best outfit. Maria wore a skiing outfit representing Greece even though the Summer Olympics are beginning...

Twill's Two Cents: Is it the best idea to remind everyone that the Olympics are on right now?

After some nice action with Michelle and Natayla, Victoria hit the Widow's Peak on Cherry and the ring cleared out. The finish came when Natalya made Maria tap out with the Sharpshooter...

2. Curt Hawkins and Zack Ryder defeated Jimmy Wang Yang and Shannon Moore in a non-title match in 4:12. Hawkins, during an Irish whip, fell funny on his face/neck. He is lucky not to have been hurt from that. Yang scored a nearfall after some nice teamwork between him and Moore.

Ryder tagged in and looked very impressive on offense. Wang took the majority of the offense before Moore received a hot tag. The champions won the match after hitting a double Impaler DDT...

Twill's Two Cents: Decent match and I guess the last one for Shannon Moore.

3. Jeff Hardy defeated Shelton Benjamin by disqualification in a non-title match in 17:57. The match started slowly with Benjamin grounding Hardy with mat wrestling holds. Hardy gained the advantage at the three minute mark but kept the match on the ground with an armbar.

Benjamin took over again and applied a chinlock. You would think they were having an ironman match. Hardy hit a mule kick, sending Shelton to the floor. Jeff followed with a successful crossbody plancha. Hardy missed a Swanton and barely kicked out of a Benjamin pin attempt...

Shelton nearly choked out Hardy with another rear chinlock. Hardy saw an opening and went for a Whisper in the Wind, but Shelton pulled Hardy's foot out from under him and he tumbled backwards to the mat. Shelton began to work on the leg of Hardy with a single leg lock. He followed that up with a single leg Boston Crab.

Hardy fought back after recuperating on the floor for a few moments. Hardy successfully hit the Whisper in the Wind for a nearfall at the 16:40 mark. Hardy tried the delayed dropkick in the corner but Shelton stood up and countered it into a powerslam. Nice.

Hardy countered a Benjamin Paydirt attempt into a Twist of Fate and Swanton. MVP interfered before Hardy could score the pinfall, causing the disqualification. MVP exited up the ramp and stared down Hardy...

Twill's Two Cents: When Shelton base jumps to the top rope, I am impressed every single time I see that. Awesome. The match started out slowly but affectively. It progressed into a great match. It was not what most would expect from these two but I enjoyed seeing both men employ different styles and was thoroughly entertained. The finished made sense although I would have liked to see a clean finish.

4. The Great Khali vs. Triple H in an Indian broken glass arm wrestling match ended in a no contest. Khali cut a promo before the contest to a chorus of "What?" chants. Triple H responded with, "That's a really good point... Honestly, I have no idea what he just said." Ranjin Singh translated and said although Triple H has beaten some of the biggest names ever, he has never been in the ring with Khali.

Triple H replied, "That is what I thought he said." Triple H cut a good promo saying he was going to break Khali's legs and when they were the same height, he was going to beat him. He called Singh "Funyun" and "Onion" throughout the interview. He said if Khali was not down with that, he had two words for him...

Referee Mickie Henson started the contest and both men nearly won. Fearing he was about to lose, Khali gave Triple H a headbutt. Triple H fought back and attempted a Pedigree, but was unable to hit it. Khali knocked out Triple H with the vice grip.

With Triple H lying face down on the mat, Singh said, "At Summerslam, The Great Khali has two words for you, 'Game Over.'" Khali celebrated as he retreated up the ramp...

5. Vladimir Kozlov defeated Jesse (with Festus) in 1:41. Before the match, Kozlov spoke in Russian and followed it by saying, "I am undefeated. I demand better competition." I am not sure why, but when Jesse and Festus came to the ring, the referee came with them. I guess he missed his cue. When the bell rang, Jesse had to explain to Festus that only he was wrestling.

Kozlov hit a series of headbutts followed by an overhead belly to belly suplex. Jesse scored what JR called "a rare one count" after a dropkick. Jesse flew at Kozlov from the top rope but Kozlov countered with the battering ram for the pin. After the match, Kozlov stopped and stared at the catatonic Festus before heading up the ramp...

Twill's Two Cents: Kozlov vs. Festus? I am cool with that.

6. The Brian Kendrick (with Ezekiel Jackson) defeated Super Crazy in 4:36. Kendrick hit a very impressive running kick to the feet for a long two count.

Kendrick utilized ground submissions to go along with his impressive kicks. Tazz made mention to Crazy wearing an ECW shirt by saying he did not get the email about getting traded. After Crazy hit some of his signature moves, a Jackson distraction allowed Brian to hit The Kendrick for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: If Mike Adamle announced a Kendrick match, would he leave out "The" at the beginning of his name, or would he call him "The The Brian Kendrick?" Sorry. It is Friday night. Kendrick continues to impress.


Edge, Chavo, and Vickie came out to the ring. Edge and Chavo had chairs as Vickie sat in her wheelchair in the middle of the ring. Edge screamed for The Undertaker to come out. He wanted Taker to use his powers to strike him down with lightning or turn out the lights. Edge wisely had Chavo relinquish his chair to him.

When Chavo turned his back, Edge hit him in the back with a chair. As Vickie screamed, Edge smiled at her and hit Chavo with a conchairto. Edge pulled Vickie into the middle of the ring and teased her. He relented for a moment and tipped her over.

Vickie slumped into the corner as Edge got in her face with a microphone. Edge said he agreed with what Mick Foley said last week and that this Edge was the only one who could defeat The Undertaker. He said he was going to hell and he was taking The Undertaker, the family, and especially Vickie, with him...

Twill's Two Cents: Normally I prefer a match to close the show, but Smackdown has hit homeruns two weeks in a row with these end of the show segments. I smell a Vickie face turn but Edge received a huge reaction when he tipped Vickie over. It should be interesting.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 11 2008, 01:15 pm
TNA Hard Justice PPV Results: 8-10-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_26483.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8146 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2569770&postcount=8146) and posts thereafter or TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (link to TNA PPV Results) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/1880211.html) for a complete report.

1 -- X Division champion PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Rhaka Khan) vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Petey in 12:00. I'm just laughing because TNA's over-booking blew up in their faces with the crowd not caring about Daivari's outside interference because all they wanted to see was Petey's Canadian Destroyer. Daivari's character is out-of-date and the fans just don't care. Match was so great if they took away the "it's-happening-already" stream of outside interference. (***)

2 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. Women's champion TAYLOR WILDE & ODB & GAIL KIM -- Traci Brooks special referee
WINNERS: Team Taylor in 12:00. Fine. It keeps Kong on the chase for her title belt, while giving Taylor another opportunity to have her hand raised. Some spots were a little off, but it was still a good showing from the knockouts division. (**)

3 -- TNA tag champions LAX (HOMICIDE & HERNANDEZ w/Salinas and Hector Guerrero) vs. BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Jacqueline) -- TNA Tag Title match
WINNERS: Storm & Roode in 14:00 to capture the TNA Tag Titles. Good heat on this match over-rode the stream of outside interference, referee incompetence, and overall over-booking to get us to a tag title switch. It was refreshing to see TNA use an injury angle from TV to set-up the finish of an important PPV match. (***)

4 -- JAY LETHAL (w/So Cal Val) vs. SONJAY DUTT -- Brawl and Chain tuxedo match
WINNER: Lethal in 12:00. Well, it wasn't really bad; it just went on too long with both men in an awkward position. There are only so many things you can do with a chain and tuxedos. (*1/2)

5 -- TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE & RHINO -- Jersey Street Fight weapons match
WINNERS: Christian & Rhino in 15:00. Fun brawl for the audience that enjoys a TNA brawl. It didn't seem like much was resolved, and we'll probably see more from this feud on TV going forward. (**1/2)

6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE -- Last Man Standing match
WINNER: Styles in 25:00. That was an epic match (despite the silly pin-and-count-'em stipulation) with the all-too-real neck injury angle, followed by some post-match activity that took away from Styles's win. Styles looked like a star when he won, then he came across like a punk attacking Angle, then a fool being in position for Sting to take him out. He had the memorable, star-making victory over Angle, but TNA had to keep going with the over-booking. Styles being used a means to the end of explaining Sting's purpose-driven TNA life wasn't necessary. (****)

7 -- TNA World Hvt. champion SAMOA JOE vs. BOOKER -- TNA World Title match -- Six Sides of Steel cage Weapons match
WINNER: Joe in 13:00 to re-claim the TNA Title. Well, that was underwhelming mainly due to the audience having sat through every possible gimmick match combination prior to another Joe-Booker bout that everyone knew was going to end with some sort of gimmicky finish. Not memorable, but it will generate talk about Jarrett. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 15 2008, 01:34 am
WWE RAW Results: 8-11-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26495.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella) vs. KELLY KELLY

Santino said he has great confidence in Beth to handle Kelly here. Beth nearly killed Kelly a minute into the match with a back-drop attempt where Kelly didn't quite flip over to land on her back. Everyone held their breath momentarily, as Santino talked about Beth tossing him around like Beth is tossing around Kelly. Suddenly, Kelly countered a press slam into a roll-up for a nearfall. Beth had enough and finished off Kelly with a sit-down implant buster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Beth in 2:00. Fine for establishing Beth's dominance heading into Summerslam. (1/2*)

2 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES (w/IC champion Kofi Kingston) vs. SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix)

This was so great to start off with Mickie matching Santino move-for-move in a game of can-you-top-this? Santino then smashed Mickie hard to the mat and went for the big knee drop, but Mickie moved in time. Santino feigned a knee injury, but Mickie showed no sympathy and went on the attack. Kofi then accidentally ran interference, allowing Beth to sneak into the ring and send Mickie hard into the ringpost. Santino took advantage with a roll-up for like a four count to secure the pin. Afterward, Santino celebrated ringside in classic Santino-wins-the-Super-Bowl fashion while taunting Mickie's parents in the process. Meanwhile, Mickie and Kofi tried to re-collect themselves in the ring.

WINNER: Santino in 3:00. That was fun while it lasted. Really could have gone another few minutes and kept up the gig. Nice set-up for Summerslam to see Beth and Santino get their comeuppance. (*)

3 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & J.T.G.) vs. THE HIGHLANDS (RORY & ROBBIE)

Well, look at that. Highlands back as tag team jobbers. Cole said the winners have an opportunity for a featured tag title match. Shad dominated early and often here, then he finished off Robbie with a hard leg sweep for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme in 3:00. Short and to the point to give Cryme Tyme a dominating win. (3/4*)

4 -- CHRIS JERICHO (w/Lance Cade) vs. KANE

Jericho teased the Walls of Jericho at 3:00, but Kane battled out into a sidewalk slam. Kane then went up top, fought off Jericho, and came down on Jericho with a leaping clothesline. Suddenly, Adamle and a slew of security guards came to ringside. Kane was bewildered for a moment, but landed a big boot to the head. Kane then grabbed the burlap sack and clutched it to his chest. Jericho used the distraction to nail the codebreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Jericho in 5:00. Not the best use of Jericho here. He gets a win, but Jericho shouldn't be positioned as an after-thought after the great character build-up the past few months. (*)

5 -- JAMIE NOBLE vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal made short work of Noble, nailing the big running knee strike to the head for a decisive pin and the win. Cole wanted to know what Layla thinks of that effort from Noble.

WINNER: Regal in 2:00. Well, that seemed a bit random. It might take a few weeks to see if this is going anywhere. (1/2*)

6 -- World tag team champions JOHN CENA & BATISTA vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES -- World tag title match

Former champs were in the ring out of the break, then Batista and Cena had a mild discussion about who would start. Batista firmly pronounced himself as the guy to start things off, then Cena slap-tagged himself into the match once the bell sounded. Cena had Rhodes positioned for the Five Knuckle Shuffle early on, then he calmly walked over to Batista and did the you-can't-see-me in his face, which drew a smirk from Batista. Cena then dropped the knuckles on Rhodes as they cut to break.

After the break, Batista took a hot tag from Cena and cleaned house. He wanted the Batistabomb to finish off DiBiase, but Cena felt like Batista was teasing him, so he jumped into the ring. They had a confrontation, then DiBiase knocked Cena into Batista and rolled up Cena from behind for the pin and the win to re-capture the tag titles.

WINNERS: DiBiase & Rhodes in 8:00 to win the World tag titles. Rushed match after last week's solid effort. They played up the tension between Cena and Batista nicely, though. I'm not a fan of quick title changes, but if done infrequently and with the purpose of building up a mega-PPV match, then it's acceptable under the circumstances. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 15 2008, 01:36 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 8-12-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26514.shtml).

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. COLIN DELANEY -- Extreme Rules match

Colin tried to high-tail it up the ramp to the back, but Dreamer quickly retrieved him and whipped him into the shopping cart full of weapons. Colin came back with a finger-smash on the ring steps, but Dreamer smacked him with a Kendo stick. Back in the ring, Dreamer with a sick t-bone suplex after placing the stick in the crotchal region. Striker with a Duke the Dumpster Droese reference on Dreamer taking out the trash via the surfboard dropkick sending a can into Colin's face. Dreamer tried to follow with a can lid to the face, but Colin moved and scored a nearfall. Dreamer then quickly came back with a spike DDT on a STOP sign for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Dreamer in 4:00. Predictable squash that takes us back a few weeks ago when Dreamer squashed Colin after Colin turned on him. Colin could be better-utilized, but it doesn't seem like WWE is interested in taking that approach right now. (*)

2 -- BAM NEELY (w/Chavo Guerrero) vs. EVAN BOURNE

Grisham talked about Bourne being a young athlete trying to make his mark, whereas some of the other young superstars are never heard from again. Ouch. Striker talked about Bourne's background in St. Louis, but him also getting his training with Dragon's Gate in Japan. Striker is earning more and more points with his commentary in each match. Bourne made a comeback with a strike kick, then he nailed the stand-still moonsault for a nearfall. Bourne followed with a nice DDT before going up top and nailing the beautiful Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win. Chavo, selling his own injuries from Smackdown, could only hop onto the apron and point his finger at Bourne after the match.

WINNER: Bourne in 3:00. Bourne continues to impress each week, and he's certainly making the most of his current opportunity. He's an instant breath of fresh air, which WWE is slowly starting to capitalize on while assuredly testing Bourne's mentality to see how he responds to the sudden success and TV push. (*1/4)

3 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. ARMANDO ESTRADA

A minute into the match, Mike Knox came out on stage looking very upset with Finlay. Striker with the point that Knox is confusing the "E" in WWE (the Summerslam promotional video of Finlay dancing with Hornswoggle) with Finlay being a tough fighter in the ring. Finlay dominated the first three minutes, but he took his eye off the ball to stare down Knox, allowing Armando to whip him hard across the bottom rope to take control. Finlay let Armando get his offense in, but then he put him in position for the Celtic Cross and stared down Knox. He then delivered the finisher and covered Armando for the win without taking his eye off Knox.

Afterward, Finlay called for Knox to join him in the ring, but Knox opted to head backstage. Finlay and Hornswoggle put the "E" in WWE with an Irish jig before bringing a youngster into the ring to dance with them.

WINNER: Finlay in 5:00. Fine TV match to continue building the Finlay-Knox feud that has the slightest potential of becoming something interesting on TV each week. Slightest. But, it gives Finlay something to focus on each week. (*)

4 -- ECW champion MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & MATT HARDY vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

Striker added some good points that Hardy has an opportunity to get a different look at Henry prior to challenging for the gold at Summerslam. Henry started things off and took apart the former tag champs. Hardy then slipped into the ring to show he has Henry's back, with Henry slowly turning around to stare down Hardy, who quietly slipped back to the apron. They cut to break.

Hardy and Henry took turns working over Morrison coming out of the break. They showed a spot from during the break of Henry throwing Morrison high into the air before Morrison crashed to the mat. Striker pointed out that Atlas is keeping a close eye on Hardy to presumably get a scouting report on Hardy for Summerslam. Striker's analytical approach to calling the action is very refreshing to make the action seem like a sporting event. Miz and Morrison cornered Hardy in their corner to work him over as the crowd tried to rally behind him. Hardy blocked a corner move with the side effect from the second rope. Henry wanted a hot tag, but Hardy covered Morrison for the surprise win. Finish just kind of came out of nowhere.

Post-match: Henry slid into the ring to take the glory for the victory, as he quickly dumped Miz and Morrison out of the ring. Henry celebrated with his arm raised in victory, then Henry and Atlas helped up Hardy, who was still selling injuries from the tag work. Henry then put an end to the temporary friendship with a giant slam on the ECW Title belt. Hardy writhed in pain like a fish out of water, then Henry and Atlas smiled and celebrated to end the show.

WINNERS: Henry & Hardy in 8:00. Very odd finish to this one with the pin seemingly coming out of nowhere. It looked rough, but in principle, it was a good finish to change it up from the usual tag team formula of always having a hot tag to set up the finish. Henry put a nice touch on the Summerslam build-up to set up the ECW Title match. Overall fine for the intended purpose. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 16 2008, 10:47 am
TNA Impact! Results: 8-14-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1002455.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Christian Cage and Rhino defeated The Rock 'N Rave Infection (with Christy Hemme) in 4:37. Cage and Rhino worked well together. Rhino hit a belly to belly suplex on Rock. The heels double teamed Rhino for a few nearfalls. Rhino turned it around with a spinebuster on Rave. Cage received the hot tag and hit a series of moves. Rhino gored Rave and Cage followed with a frogsplash for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Nice win for Cage and Rhino. If they commit to keeping them together, they could be a welcome addition to the tag team division.

2. Matt Morgan defeated Johnny Devine in 1:40. Devine did not receive an introduction. Morgan crotched himself on the top rope, which was Devine's only offense. Morgan hit the Hellevator for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Same old stuff.

3. Sheik Abdul Bashir defeated Black Machismo in 4:25. Sheik cut a promo in his native language before speaking in English. He gave a great promo about how he came here and grabbed the American Dream while others waited for their handouts. The promo took a turn for the worse when he said, "I do not love Lady America; I love raping her."...

Lethal hit an impressive Suicide Dive onto Bashir. He scored a nearfall with a top rope double axe handle. Bashir turned the tides quickly and hit multiple reverse neckbreakers for a nearfall.

Bashir attempted to slow things down with a reverse chinlock. Lethal sped up the pace of the match with multiple closelines. Lethal hit the rolling cradle suplex for a long two count. Bashir took a screwdriver looking apparatus out of his boot and hit Lethal in the neck. He hit the WMD (a DDT with Lethal on his knees) for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Decent match but I would have rather Bashir win a few matches on his own before cheating to win.

4. Team 3D defeated Samoa Joe and Kevin Nash by DQ when the referee reversed the original decision in 10:06. Joe and Devon started the match. Joe started working hard very early but Devon and Brother Ray were able to slow things down and double team Joe. Joe regained the advantage on Ray before tagging in Nash. Nash remained on the offensive as the show went to commercial...

Team 3D worked on Nash's knee as Joe looked on with concern. West said Nash was in the gym everyday but could not help his knee injuries. In the gym everyday? That is the funniest thing I have heard all day. Joe finally received the hot tag and took out both members of Team 3D. Joe locked in the rear naked choke on Devon for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Solid match. Joe looked fantastic tonight.

After the match, Joe grabbed a chair and attacked Devon. Nash tried to stop Joe but he could not. Joe punched Earl Hebner and Hebner reversed the decision, giving Team 3D the win by disqualification. Tenay wondered what Joe would do if his temper cost him the TNA World Heavyweight Championship...

Twill's Two Cents: If the referee reversed the decision and gave the other team (person) a win by DQ, Joe would not lose the title anyway.

5. Taylor Wilde defeated Christy Hemme with Traci Brooks as the special guest referee in a non-title match in 3:28. Taylor tied up Christy right away with her mat wrestling skills. Christy hit a Jackie Gayda-like bulldog. That was bad.

Hemme remained on offense for longer than anyone expected. Taylor scored the win with a German Suplex with a bridge...

Awesome Kong and Raisha Saeed came down to the ring. Kong beat the hell out of Taylor until Traci pulled her off. She was met with a chokeslam. Raisha took care of Taylor. Kong set up a chair but Gail Kim hit the ring. Katie Kim, Gail's sister, looked concerned at ringside in the stands. Gail dropkicked a chair into Kong's face and nailed her with an unprotected shot. Kong took off and Gail celebrated...

Twill's Two Cents: This worked for me as long as Kong gets the belt off of Taylor. I hate unprotected chairshots. They are not necessary and nobody should be taking them.

6. Hernandez (with Hector Guerrero and Salinas) defeated James Storm (with Robert Roode and Jacqueline) in 5:05. Hernandez hit the very impressive Suicide Dive over the top rope early in the match. West talked about the "numbers game" when Storm gained the advantage, even though both guys had the same amount of backup.

Hernandez gained the advantage after hitting an Electric Chair. He hit a full nelson suplex and Storm landed awkwardly on his head. Roode broke up an attempted Border Toss. Storm went to the top and jumped at Hernandez. Hernandez caught him and hit a sit down power bomb for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Short, but solid match to progress this feud.

7. A.J. Styles defeated Kurt Angle in an Olympic gold medal challenge to win Kurt Angle's Olympic gold medal. Angle scored a two point takedown right away. He took Styles down again within the first minute. The first period ended with Angle ahead 6-0...

Twill's Two Cents: I do not like matches like this because Styles would lose 100-0 if they did this for real. It is difficult to suspend belief here.

Styles scored four points for scoring a two count on Angle. I guess he received two for the takedown and two for the nearfall. Angle scored two more points but Styles scored four more points at the end of the period. The scored is tied at eight going into the final period...

Angle elbowed Styles in the face but the referee did not see it. Angle had a two point lead going into the final minute. Angle hit a suplex into the referee and closelined Styles. The lights went off and Sting's music played. The lights went back on and Angle had a black bat. The lights went off again and Jeff Jarrett's music played. The lights went back on and Styles hit Angle over the head with a guitar. He pinned Angle and won the gold medal...

Twill's Two Cents: Interesting. I have been a Jeff Jarrett fan since the dying days of WCW (not before that) so I am more intrigued by him than Sting. I am not thrilled with Styles running around with Angle's gold medal, but if it leads to more great matches between the two, I am all for that.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 16 2008, 12:58 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-15-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002467.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results.

1. Jeff Hardy beat Shelton Benjamin fought Jeff Hardy by DQ in a U.S. Title match in 15:30. The always well prepared Jim Ross ran through more U.S. Title history before the bell. He's also hard on himself, as he mentioned that he confuses the Whisper in the Wind and the Twist of Fate sometimes. The show cut to commercial a few minutes into the match.

Shelton controlled the offense after the commercial break and become frustrated when Hardy kicked out of his pinfall attempts. Later, Benjamin jumped over the top rope and tried to turn a sunset flip into a powerbomb off the ring apron, but Hardy blocked the move and turned it into a huracanrana. In the end, Hardy went up top for a Swanton, but MVP ran out and pushed him him down to end the match.

Afterward, MVP lined up Hardy for a kick, but Hardy moved and the kick caught Shelton in the chops. Hardy hit the Twist of Fate and a Swanton on MVP and then on Benjamin...

Powell's POV: The finish was predictable to anyone who has been watching the show lately, but the match was entertaining while it lasted. Benjamin was aggressive and got plenty of offense against Hardy. I hope they do more with MVP and Hardy tonight because he got the better of MVP here, so there's no need to pay to see him get revenge at SummerSlam.

2. Natalya and Maryse beat Maria and Michelle McCool in 3:10. Maryse spiced up her ring entrance it's a big improvement over that uninterested look she had previously. After some forgettable action, Natalya took down McCool by the legs and cradled her for the pin. Ross called it a great illustration of leverage...

Powell's POV: That was an even better illustration of Diva filler.

3. The Brian Kendrick (w/Ezekiel Jackson) pinned Scotty Goldman in 2:45. Goldman is better known to everyone as Colt Cabana. He did a pre-tape in which he acted like he was tripped out by seeing himself "in a box" (a/k/a the television monitor). There were some boring chants, but there was a nice pop when Goldman hit his version of Iceman Parsons' Butt-Butt.

Kendrick came back a short time later with The Kendrick and scored the pin. After the match, Jackson hit Goldman with a shoulder block.

Powell's POV: The live crowd wasn't very impressed with this match. They pretty much sat on their hands and only reacted for the big spots. Kendrick is highly entertaining, and it was good to see Colt make his WWE debut. I met him a few times when he worked the local indy shows and he was a great guy.

4. Triple H vs. Kenny Dykstra in a non-title match. Dykstra was aggressive with punches and shoulder blocks at the start of the match. Hunter sold for him for about 30 seconds and then took control with a clothesline. The rest of the match was all Hunter. He looked at Khali and then hit the Pedigree for the win.

After the match, Hunter turned his full attention to Khali. He placed the WWE Title belt on the mat in front of him and challenged Khali to enter the ring. Hunter headed to ringside toward Khali, but Ranjin cut him off. He asked if Hunter was out of his mind after last week.

Hunter grabbed Ranjin by the throat and brought him inside the ring. Hunter teased that he would punch the interpreter until Khali climbed onto the ring apron. Hunter and Khali went at it inside the ring. Hunter went for the Pedigree, but Khali blocked it. Moments later, Hunter clotheslined Khali over the top rope and to the floor at ringside...

Powell's POV: Hunter just proved he can knock the giant off his feet and pretty much have his way with him, so there's no reason to order the pay-per-view. Strange booking tonight with two babyfaces getting the better of their pay-per-view opponents.

5. Big Show squashed Ryan Braddock in 1:25. Braddock was given generic entrance music and a generic graphic on the big screen. Show dominated the match and knocked him out with a punch before scoring the pin...

Powell's POV: I think Braddock also worked on my local indy scene as Brad Bradley, but I don't remember much about him.

6. Vladimir Kozlov pinned Festus (w/Jesse) in 3:00. Festus dominated the offense, but Kozlov caught him with a head butt to the chest and scored the clean pin...

Backstage, Edge pushed Vickie in the wheelchair as Vickie screamed in terror. Edge told her the last part of the ride would be him taking her to the ring. "Buckle up," he said...

Edge wheeled the crying Vickie to ringside and then tilted the wheelchair forward, which made her tumble onto the floor. He grabbed a mic and dramatically fell down right beside her. He said they've been going through a rough patch. "But every marriage does, right?" Edge asked.

He reminded her that they took "for better or worse" vows. He pulled her in and reminded her that he's a good cuddler. He said he wanted to take a trip down memory lane. He aired footage of everything that has happened in their storyline since Triple H played their wedding video, which includes the segment with Mick Foley and Edge attack on La Familia.

Back in the building, with Edge and Vickie still lying on the floor at ringside, Edge made her apologize for what she did to Undertaker. He told her that she's pathetic and blamed her for everything. He challenged Undertaker to come out and vowed to show him "the purest form of hell that you've ever been in."

Edge turned his attention back to Vickie. He hovered over her and brought up "for better or worse" vows and said they could apply to the Hell in a Cell match. "Edge vs. Undertaker, till death do us part," he concluded. Edge stared toward the sky while squatting over the sobbing Vickie to close the show...

Powell's POV: Very good performances Vickie and especially Edge. WWE actually held off and waited until SummerSlam to bring back Undertaker. I thought they might lose their patience and bring him back sooner or at least do the hocus pokus stuff with the lights, but they put the entire spotlight on Edge and Vickie. Well done.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 18 2008, 01:00 pm
WWE SummerSlam PPV Results: 8-17-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_26583.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view match results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8160 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2573390&postcount=8160) and posts thereafter.

1 -- JEFF HARDY vs. MVP
WINNER: MVP in 10:00. Nice win for MVP, who needed a credible PPV match victory that he can use to promote his case for a main event push in TV storylines. Finish was relatively clean, as Jeff simply could have ignored Shelton's presence ringside. (**)

2 -- Women's champion MICKIE JAMES & IC champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. BETH PHOENIX & SANTINO MARELLA -- Winning team wins both belts
WINNERS: Santino & Beth in 5:00 to capture the IC and Women's Titles. Short match that may have been cut short after that nasty head-to-head collision between Santino and Kofi. Santino was great, as usual. If WWE has original material for the Glammarella tandem, then we should be store in for several weeks of great TV. (*)

3 -- ECW champion MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. MATT HARDY -- ECW Title match
WINNER: Hardy via DQ in 1:00; Henry retains ECW Title. Well, another classic ECW PPV match ends before it really even begins. ECW gets a little momentum, then they pull the rug out from under whatever percentage of the audience was looking forward to this match as one of the reasons they bought the PPV. WWE tried to "send 'em home happy" with the post-match, but it was an empty answer. (n/a)

4 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. JBL -- World Title match
WINNER: Punk in 12:00 to retain the World Title. Just about at expectations for what kind of match would take place here. JBL had plenty of offense to continue the theme of Punk as an underdog champion who shows grit to pull out the win to keep the belt. (**1/4)

5 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjan Singh) -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Hunter in 10:00 to retain the WWE Title. This was definitely above expectations. They put together a basic, simple-to-understand 10-minute story that eventually led to Hunter escaping the vice and finally hitting the Pedigree. Nothing complicated and the fans were into the action, so all was fine here. (**1/4)

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. BATISTA -- No Hype Needed -- First-time Ever
WINNER: Batista in 14:00. Just an awesome match. Perfectly fine on several levels to deliver a great first match between the two and generate the demand from the audience for a re-match, considering they only went about 14-15 minutes. Batista had a superstar-reminding effort while Cena had a really good showing, especially with that sick counter into the FU. Crowd involvement pushed this to a four-star level. (****)

7 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. EDGE -- Hell in a Cell match
WINNER: Taker in 27:00. Just what you expected here - a very good battle built around a great TV storyline. They stretched out the spot sequences to fit the time, so it wasn't as action-packed and intense as the Cena-Batista match, where it seemed like the finish could come at any time. This was more of a methodical Undertaker match where the outcome was a little ways down the road. Solid story, but Edge didn't quite get to that level where his TV character was at. He was just classic heel Edge. (***1/2)

In-ring: Shawn Michaels came to the ring with his wife, Rebecca, who tried to stand strong in the ring as Michaels began his speech. Michaels said he's going to get right to it. He said he recently had an appointment with his doctor for a re-evaluation on his eye. Michaels said that the eye injury combined with the assorted injuries he's suffered in his career led to the doctor telling him he should walk away. Boos. Michaels said the doctor left it up to him for his final decision and he's going to heed the advice and walk away. Boos.

Michaels recapped his history going back to Summerslams in the past where he was the headliner and showstopper. He said he's also known as the guy who screwed Bret Hart, formed DX, innovated the ladder match, lost his smile, and retired Ric Flair. He said he can now by a full-time husband and father. Michaels said this ultimately won't be a popular decision, but he knows it's the right one. Before he could finish, Chris Jericho's music interrupted. It was only a matter of time.

Jericho slowly walked out on stage sporting his villain suit and tie. He has the costuming mastered. Jericho locked eyes with Michaels while Rebecca played her part of the concerned wife fighting back tears. Jericho slowly circled around the ring to face Michaels, who returned his stare. Jericho: "No." He said he's not going to allow Michaels to go out this way on his own terms. Jericho said Michaels is walking away from the business because of him and he wants Michaels to admit to that right now. Michaels said that if Jericho has even the slightest bit of human decency, he will get out of this ring right now. Jericho said he's not going anywhere until Michaels admits he put him out of the business. He said Michaels needs to admit to his wife and children why he won't be able to work in the ring anymore. Jericho said he deserves to hear Michaels admit he put Michaels out for good.

Jericho continued on that the headline will show Michaels left the wrestling business because of Chris Jericho. Michaels nodded and said he'll admit that he will go home and tell his family that the reason he can't wrestle anymore is because of the actions of a vile, selfish, worthless human being. He wanted Jericho to do him a favor, though. Michaels told Jericho to sit down with his family and tell them that daddy will never, ever be Shawn Michaels. Oh my. What a line. Fans cheered and chanted, "H-B-K" as both men continued to lock eyes. Rebecca pulled at Michaels's arm to get him to leave and Michaels slowly started to walk away, but Jericho pulled him back. He went for a punch to the face, but Michaels ducked out of instinct and Rebecca took it square in the face.

After the initial giant gasp in the arena, Michaels dropped down to the mat to check on his wife, who slumped down to the mat. Jericho had a slight look of concern mixed with villainous confidence. Michaels had his best performance possibly ever showing the intense character battle within himself on whether to attack Jericho or check on his wife. He fought back his old persona to attack Jericho and opted to keep checking on his wife, who slowly brought her left arm over to Michaels's shoulder for protection. Jericho slowly walked out of the ring maintaining that mix of grief, concern, and no remorse. He locked eyes with Michaels, who kept kneeling over Rebecca's body while medical staff checked on Rebecca. After Jericho disappeared backstage, Rebecca slowly made her way to her feet to a strong ovation. Michaels helped her out of the ring and they embraced with the camera focusing on Rebecca's busted lip. They embraced as the announcers quietly recapped video footage of the punch to the face. Just an amazingly poignant segment. One of the best performances ever in a wrestling angle from all three. It's a challenge for family members to become involved in wrestling angles, but Rebecca played her part perfectly.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 19 2008, 02:52 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-18-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26600.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

Jericho came out and told everyone it was Shawn's fault that his wife got hurt.

1 -- BATISTA vs. PAUL BURCHILL

Lawler said Katie Lea is not present because she's in the next match. Burchill went right after the injured knee and tried to wear down Batista, but Batista nailed a spear and spinebuster combo. Batista then measured Burchill and scored the Batistabomb for the easy pin and the win. Batista then smiled all the way up the entance ramp to celebrate the easy win.

WINNER: Batista in 2:00. Easy win over the former pirate. Based on this, Burchill might be on the short list for the next round of pink slips. (1/2*)

2 -- KATIE LEA & JILLIAN HALL vs. KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES

Match started off with Kelly landing some acrobatic moves before the heels went to work on her. Kelly then blocked a handspring elbow drop from Jillian and made the hot tag to Mickie, who cleaned house. Some awkward TV ensued as everyone tried to get on the same page, then Kelly and Mickie double-dropkicked Jillian to the outside. From behind, Mickie avoided a roll-up with a hook of the tights from Katie before nailing the leaping DDT on Katie for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kelly & Mickie in 5:00. Fine match. Mickie gets a win back after losing the Women's Title last night. (*)

3 -- JBL vs. JAMIE NOBLE

JBL quickly shoved Noble into the corner and started his assault. Repeated elbow drops left Noble struggling for breath on the mat. JBL then slowly helped him up before landing the Clothesline from Hell. JBL paused while the ref checked on Noble for signs of life, then JBL landed two short-arm clotheslines to emphasize the point. JBL started to make a cover, but ref Marty called for the bell and declared JBL the winner with Noble knocked out.

WINNER: JBL via KO in 3:00. Effective for JBL sending the message that he's the biggest bully on the block. (1/2*)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. World tag team champions TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES

They returned with the action in progress. DiBiase was the aggressor here, using a little cat-and-mouse from Cody to bait Cena into an attack. DiBiase smashed Cena with successive right hands before the tag champs started a methodical in-and-out attack on Cena.

Cena fired back at the champs out of his corner, but DiBiase held onto Cena's arm briefly to allow Cody to smash him in the back to continue the attack. High-pitched chant of "Cena, Cena" led to Cena rallying with right hand blows, but Cody out-quicked Cena into a trip to the floor. Cody then whipped Cena hard into the ring steps before bringing him back into the ring to continue the beating. DiBiase was too casual on a suplex, allowing Cena to counter with a suplex of his own. Cody tagged in and slowly set up Cena for a right hand, but Cena emphatically blocked to start his full-fledged comeback. Cena dropped Cody in center ring, then gave DiBiase the you-can't-see-me followed by a Five Knuckle Shuffle drop on Cody. DiBiase tried to block the FU on Cody, but Cena clotheslined him and slapped on the STFU on Cody. Cody fought for a few seconds before tapping out.

WINNER: Cena in 12:00. Good match. Tag champs had another good showing with their work in the ring while on the offensive. DiBiase is a chip off the Randy Orton block, and he could be a valuable main eventer player down the road if he continues to develop. Cena could give plenty of offense and still come out strong here based on the crowd support. (**)

5 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix) vs. D-LO BROWN -- non-title match

D-Lo went for a top rope move early on, but he apparently got his foot caught on the tag rope and crashed hard to the mat. Kofi said he's looking forward to getting his title back, then D-Lo made his comeback and went back up top. Suddenly, Beth casually walked into the ring and stood over Santino to block D-Lo. He told her to get to stepping, but Beth slapped him in the face to cause a DQ. Santino stepped in and told Beth he had things under control, but D-Lo smacked him in the face. Santino wound up on the outside where Kofi rammed him head-first into the announce table. Beth then picked up Santino and helped him stumble around ringside. There may have been a nipple slip from Beth as the picture went dark with Santino inadvertently yanking Beth's top down.

WINNER: D-Lo via DQ in 2:00. Going from about 15 minutes of Santino to about 3 minutes of Santino on TV is just not right. Disappointing use of Santino and Beth tonight. (1/2*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO (w/Lance Cade) -- non-title match

The bell sounded and there was a loud "C-M-Punk" chant to start things off. Punk started things off with rapid-fire kicks to the body before Jericho landed a thumb to the eye to take control. Jericho went for a shoulder tackle in the corner, but Punk moved and Jericho spilled to the floor. Punk smiled for the hard camera as they cut to break with Punk having the upper hand.

They returned with Jericho in control after knocking Punk off the ropes during the commercial break when Punk wanted a springboard smash. Jericho worked over the back with a variety of holds before slapping on abdominal stretch at 8:00. Jericho then sent Punk into the corner, but Punk came flying out with a knee strike to the face, followed by a high leg whip. Punk started his comeback and nailed a butterfly back breaker across his knee for a nearfall. Punk tried the knee strike and bulldog combo, but Jericho blocked and hit the Lionsault for a nearfall. Jericho tried to follow with the Walls of Jericho, but Punk fought out and suddenly whipped out a huracanrana for a nearfall at 10:00.

Punk came up favoring his head and Lawler said Punk had some staples put in the back of his head after knocking heads with JBL last night. Punk teased the G2S in the corner, but Jericho blocked and slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Punk fought the hold as Cole talked about Punk's training coming into play right here. Punk inched closer to the bottom rope and eventually reached out for a break. Jericho tried to follow with a top rope move, but Punk met him with a high knee square in the jaw. Punk then flew off the top with a bulldog on Jericho before calling for the end. Cade hopped on the apron, though, and distracted Punk. Jericho then caught Punk from behind with the codebreaker for the pin and the win. They closed with one more plug for Raw on Sci-Fi next week.

WINNER: Jericho in 14:00. Good match. I don't have a problem with Punk losing relatively clean here, as he had a good showing in the ring and the superstar pop will probably carry over more to next week than the outcome of this match. Plus, no one ever wins in their hometown, so the finish was inevitable. On another note, Jericho needed a credible TV victory if they're going to sell Vengeance (or the PPV following Vengeance) on Michaels vs. Jericho as a headline match, so this was a good momentum-builder for Jericho. Very interesting to see the last two Raws end at the end of the second hour without a run-over. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 20 2008, 02:41 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 8-19-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26616.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neely) vs. EVAN BOURNE & SUPER CRAZY & TOMMY DREAMER

Evan Bourne is awesome. That was the story from the opening minute, then Bam tripped up Evan setting up the heel attack on Bourne. Striker with a nice transition that Bourne's fortitude will now be tested after we know everything about his high-flying ability. Dreamer then tagged in a-house-of-fire and the action broke down. Dreamer cleared Miz to the floor, then Chavo found himself on the floor. Dreamer then dumped Morrison over the top rope onto the other two setting up Super Crazy for a crazy dive onto the heels. Bourne then majestically flew through the air with a moonsault onto a group of heels. Suddenly, after all that excitement, Miz caught Dreamer in the ring with a neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Grisham with the nice line that it doesn't matter how good you look, but whether you win or not. Nice. Nice. Nice.

WINNERS: Team Miz in 5:00. Lesson here is that highspots don't equal victories. That was a heck of spot sequence from Crazy and Bourne that brought the house down, but a good win for the heel trio. Nice match for several different reasons. (*1/2)

2 -- GAVIN SPEARS vs. RICKY ORTIZ

Grisham and Striker said Ricky has to destroy what he once was. A jobber? Ricky's been around like a month and they're acting like he's a veteran near the main event picture. Ricky started to rally it up with the rally towel merchandise in full-effect, then he finished off Gavin with a big splash for the pin and the win. Striker said Ricky is growing on him. They went to a crowd shot of a pack of (planted) fans swinging around the rally towels.

WINNER: Ricky in 4:00. Forgettable, but fine. It'll take time for Ricky to catch on and actually look credible in the ring and not just a guy they're pushing because they have no one else in the pipeline. (3/4*)

3 -- ECW champion MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. MATT HARDY -- ECW Title match

Hardy was instantly the aggressor here, landing a right hand punch right after the bell sounded. Hardy then started taking apart Henry's knees much to Atlas's chagrin. Henry bounced back with power offense before knocking Hardy to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Atlas became involved on the outside to keep Henry on the offensive. Henry with a bear hug on Hardy and Striker provided a nice visual of Henry's strength saying he could dead lift Big Show, Tommy Dreamer, and Todd Grisham all at once. Henry then showed off the strength with a straight gorilla press in center ring. Atlas wanted him to cover Hardy, but Henry opted for laughter before missing with a big splash. Hardy then fired up and started his hot comeback. He landed forearm smashes that could only rock Henry, but Henry remained on his feet until Hardy nailed a bulldog for a close nearfall. Crowd is hot for this.

Hardy then went up top and connected with a flying splash for a two count again. Hardy wanted to finish it, but Henry blocked the Twist of Fate. Hardy then connected with a second attempt and had the pin, but Atlas pulled Hardy to the floor out of the ref's eyes. Hardy tried to re-focus with a top rope moonsault, but Henry blocked with knees to the gut. Henry then scooped up Hardy and landed the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Henry in 15:00 to retain the ECW Title. Very nice TV match. This is what we should have had two nights ago on Summerslam, but this was a good cap to a very strong episode of ECW TV. Henry vs. Hardy in a steel cage seems inevitable to keep Atlas out of the ring. Well done from Henry and Hardy to tell a good story in the ring. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 21 2008, 02:56 pm
Killer Kowalski removed from life support (http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/08/19/6506971.html)

The great Killer Kowalski was removed from life support on Monday in Whidden Memorial Hospital in Everett, Mass. Though he has not been declared dead, his family holds out little hope.

His wife, Theresa, continues to stay by his side at the hospital, informing Kowalski's brother, Stan, and his family, as best she can in Ottawa, Ont.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 22 2008, 10:59 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 8-21-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26643.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- HERNANDEZ (w/Salinas and Hector Guerrero) vs. ROBERT ROODE (w/James Storm and Jacqueline)

Hernandez stormed the ring and the match started on the floor with Hernandez looking for a fight. He then teased a dive from the ring to the floor, but Beer Money regrouped. Jackie then ran interference to allow Roode to gain control in the ring. When Hernandez re-gained control and wanted the Border Toss, the women became involved in a giant cat fight. Storm then hopped on the apron to run distraction, but Hernandez out-smarted them and gave Roode a torture rack fall-away slam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hernandez in 6:00. The usual over-booked TV match with tons of interference and a predictable miscommunication between the heel tandem. Hernandez continues to get his revenge, which is completely fine to begin his singles heavyweight push. (*)

2 -- ERIC YOUNG & B.G. JAMES vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN)

A heel turn in the works for the Guns, with Shelley having a harder edge to his attitude. The deal broke down into a Texas Tornado video game-style battle with Sabin missing a splash on B.G. on the floor. Back in the ring, Young gave Sabin a neckbreaker for the pin and the win. After the match, each side was prepared for a friendly handshake, but B.G. got under Sabin's skin by rubbing his hair as if he was a little boy. Sabin then spit in his hand and slapped B.G. across the face. This led to a brawl in the ring with B.G. clearing the Guns to the floor until security intervened.

WINNERS: Young & James in 4:00. Forgettable TV match featuring a bunch of fast-paced spots without any set-up or build-up. Guns could use a heel turn to regain some edge after losing matches to wrestlers teaming up for the first time. I doubt it will lead to them being taken more seriously, unfortunately, but rather turned into a 2008 version of Spirit Squad. (1/2*)

3 -- MATT MORGAN vs. FRANKIE CAPONE

All we need is the FOX Box and a giant green light and we're back on FOX Sports Net for a signature squash match. Morgan shook off Capone's early attempt to attack him, and landed a big splash in the corner. Morgan landed a bicycle kick, then hit the Hell-evator swinging suplex for the win.

WINNER: Morgan in 2:00. Quick and almost-painless to sit through. (n/a)

Post-match: Brother Ray walked out to the ring to address Morgan. He asked him how it feels to beat up someone with no future in the business. Morgan danced around in the ring, then Ray suggested Morgan fight him right now. Of course, Brother Devon blind-sided Morgan to set up a two-on-one beating until Abyss made the save. Ray bailed, then Devon found his exit just in time. Tenay said Morgan and Abyss could be one of the most-devastating tandems in TNA.

4 -- BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. RHINO -- No Surrender TNA Title qualifying match

After Sharmell became involved ringside, Christian Cage slowly came to ringside and tapped her on the shoulder. Sharmell tried to slap Christian, but Christian easily brushed her off and dragged her backstage. Booker freaked out as they cut to break.

During the break, Booker avoided the Gore and came back with a scissors kick to the head to set up his attack. Booker wanted the axe kick, but Rhino ducked and nailed a series of right hand blows. Rhino then went up top and comically missed a falling-down headbutt. Booker then finished him off with the axe kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Booker in 11:00. Booker and Joe in yet another PPV main event title match. Match was fine, but Rhino looked pretty ridiculous attempting a top rope move. (*)

5 -- X Division champion PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Rhaka Khan) vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- X Division Title match

The basic story is that Creed is going to be so focused on avoiding the Canadian Destroyer that he might miss another move from Petey that could lead to victory. Petey distracted the ref feigning an injury early on, then Khan tried to kick Creed on the floor, but she smashed her foot into the guardrail. Daivari came out on stage at 3:00 to get a closer look at the action as Petey set up for the Canadian Destroyer, but Creed blocked. Petey came back with a spinning neckbreaker for a nearfall, but Creed delivered a press slam into gutbuster. Daivari then slipped into the ring and Creed knocked him to the floor before knocking Petey to the floor. Creed followed with a flip dive onto both Daivari and Petey, then back in the ring, Creed wanted to end it. Alas, Daivari jumped into the ring and smashed Creed to cause a DQ. Daivari pushed the ref aside and tried to attack Creed, but Petey became upset with Daivari for interrupting his match.

WINNER: Creed via DQ in 6:00; Petey retains X Division Title. Predictable finish to continue Daivari's anti-American campaign. (*)

6 -- AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. GAIL KIM -- No DQ Knockouts Brawl

Kong tried to charge Gail to start things off, but Gail pulled down the top rope and Kong went flying to the floor. They brawled, but Kong took control by whipping Gail into the ringpost. Kong took Gail up the grandstand stairs to the second level of the Impact Zone where Kong used an umbrella to knock around Gail. Gail then fell down the stairs to the ringside area, and Kong took her back over the guardrail to the ringside area. Gail's sister continued to look concerned as Kong picked apart Gail. Raisha tried to get involved, but Gail whipped her into the guardrail. Gail then ducked a clothesline and Kong smashed her arm into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Gail cornered Raisha and smashed her with multiple kendo stick shots. Kong tried to introduce a steel chair, but Gail kicked it into her face for a nearfall. Gail tried to follow with a burst of right hand blows, but Kong nailed the implant buster in center ring for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kong in 7:00. Match was the best action on the show by far. As Wade Keller wrote about Gail leaving for WWE, I'm hoping TNA gave her a substantial offer on the level of a second tier male wrestler. Gail was once again involved in one of the top segments of the show and has been a ratings winner for months. She was more valuable than the majority of the male wrestlers on the roster. (**1/4)

7 -- KURT ANGLE vs. A.J. STYLES -- Olympic gold medal ladder match

WINNER: Styles in 13:00. So, this seems to be setting up for Jarrett to side with the younger stars of Joe and Styles to potentially feud against the Just For Men gray hair club of Nash & Sting, who are trying to teach the young stars respect and the ways of the business. Or something like that. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2008, 09:03 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-22-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002534.shtml)

1. Maria defeated Natalya by disqualification in 3:26. JR and Tazz were on their game here plugging both Maria and Natalya. Maryse came down and attacked Maria to avenge her broken nose from a couple of weeks back...

Twill's Two Cents: Throwaway match in what should be a more important division.

2. The Brian Kendrick defeated Curt Hawkins, Zach Ryder, Scotty Goldman, Funaki, Jimmy Wang Yang, Vladimir Kozlov, Super Crazy, and Armando Estrada in a battle royal to qualify for the Championship Scramble in 3:17. Kozlov was the first to be eliminated. Does that count as a loss?

Big Show, who was sitting at ringside but not involved in the match, came into the ring and started eliminating everyone. Funny. He knocked Kendrick over the top but Ezekiel Jackson caught him before he hit the floor. Show left the ring over the top and since Kendrick was the only one not officially eliminated, he was declared the winner...

Twill's Two Cents: Show is awesome. He is a company guy and deserves good things. I am thrilled to see Kendrick in a PPV main event. I would not mind seeing him win the title once in the scramble.

3. MVP defeated Festus (with Jesse) by countout to qualify for the Championship Scramble in 7:59. Festus took control at the bell as he usually does. Porter took the advantage and worked over the bicep and arm of Festus. He slowed things down with an armbar.

MVP scored a nearfall with a single arm DDT. After a short time with Festus in control, MVP regained the advantage by continuing to work on the arm of Festus. Festus began hitting multiple right hands followed by a shoulder block. Both men went to the floor. MVP gave Jesse the Drive-by kick and entered the ring. Festus checked on Jesse and did not beat the count...

Twill's Two Cents: Good match. Festus can work a match with just about anyone and MVP continues to impress in the ring.

4. Shelton Benjamin defeated Finlay (with Hornswoggle) in 16:19. Shelton gave a promo about the being the United States Champion but held the belt upside down. Finlay worked over the leg of Shelton in the early going of the match. Midway during the match, Benjamin knocked Finlay to the floor as the show went to commercial...

Coming back from the break, Finlay reversed Benjamin's advantage by hitting a jawbreaker. With Finlay on the offensive, Mike Knox came down and abducted Hornswoggle. Finlay paid too much attention to Knox and Benjamin hit Pay Dirt for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Very good match with Finlay using his strengths and Benjamin continuing to show why he is one of the best in ring workers in WWE today.

5. Jeff Hardy defeated The Great Khali (with Ranjin Singh) to qualify for the Championship Scramble in 5:16. Hardy worked on Khali's legs early in the match. Khali used his power to sustain the advantage throughout the match before Hardy hit a Twist of Fate out of nowhere. After chaos ensued, Triple H hit Khali with a chair, allowing Hardy to hit the Whisper in the Wind and Swanton for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: The correct guy won here and the Championship Scramble is shaping up to be an interesting match.

Vickie Guerrero and La Familia stood (sat) in the middle of the ring to give a pre-written statement. Vickie said she was a great woman and was willing to apologize to The Undertaker. Vickie stood up and introduced The Undertaker...

Taker came down to the ring and did his usual stuff. Vickie told Taker she delivered Edge to him inside Hell in a Cell. She asked for forgiveness and got down on her knees to apologize. She begged him to accept his apology.

Taker sounded more demonic than usual. He said was not looking for an apology; he was looking for her soul. La Familia attacked Taker and he succumbed to the numbers game. However, he was able to overcome and take out all of La Familia. Vickie retreated up the ramp and Taker did his throat slash...

Twill's Two Cents: Disappointing final segment given what Edge has given us in the past few weeks.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2008, 02:33 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-25-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26689.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. JBL -- non-title match

Bell sounded and the fans chanted for Punk to start things off. Lawler said his sources tell him John Cena has some sort of injury that they hope to get more info on tonight. Two minutes into this, Cole confirmed it's a non-title match. Nice opening four minutes with Punk nailing a suicide dive on the floor, then JBL getting back at him with a boot to the face that cleared Punk to the floor. Cut to break.

JBL was on the attack coming out of the break, even foaming at the mouth for added heel intensity value. JBL put Punk in a fireman's carry torture rack to work over the ribs before slamming him to the mat for a nearfall. JBL lit into Punk with repeated right hands, but Punk came back with a surprise tornado DDT from the top turnbuckle for a nearfall.

Punk made his full comeback with a high knee and bulldog combo, but it was only good for a nearfall. Punk then measured JBL for the finish, but JBL slipped out of the GTS and fired up a huge Clothesline from Hell. Cole said it should be over, but JBL took too long to make the cover, allowing Punk to grab the bottom rope to block the three count. JBL, desperate, then went to the floor and retrieved a steel chair. The ref quickly yanked the chair away, though, and JBL walked into the Go 2 Sleep. Punk made the cover and scored the pin for the clean win. Post-match, they stayed with Punk's celebration for a while to allow plenty of time for the announcers to talk up Punk.

WINNER: Punk in 13:00. Nice match. Good opener to set a good tone for intense action tonight. Punk continues to find a way to win, which fits his gimmick as the inspirational babyface who wins against-all-odds. (**1/2)

2 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella) vs. KELLY KELLY -- non-title match

Early on, Beth came up bleeding heavily from the nose after taking an apparent boot to the face. Beth and Santino had a discussion after Santino tried to help, which distracted Beth enough for Kelly to roll her up from behind for the win. Afterward, Santino covered his face and quietly entered the ring to check on Beth, who wiped away blood from her nose before tackling Santino and landing repeated punches. Santino then ran out of the ring to head for higher ground.

WINNER: Kelly in 3:00. Fine to promote the "unique" relationship between Santino and Beth, who was pretty popular for blasting Santino post-match. (1/2*)

3 -- PRIMO COLON vs. CHARLIE HAAS

Haas tried to spit an apple in Primo's face, but Primo came back with a dropkick and monkey flip out of the corner. Haas lost his wig, then went for the backstabber, but Primo held onto the top rope to block. He then sprung up top and nailed a leaping splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Primo in 3:00. Fine debut for Primo, but we could have used a few weeks of promotional vignettes to introduce us to his character. He has the smile-and-pump-your-fists babyface mannerisms that are notoriously associated with The Rock when he first debuted in WWE. Evan Bourne has made it work on ECW and it remains to be seen of Primo makes it work on Raw. (1/2*)

4 -- World tag team champions TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES vs. JERRY LAWLER & JIM DUGGAN -- non-title match

Cole by himself on the air, which should be interesting. Duggan sounded like a parody of himself begging for a hot tag from Lawler throughout this one. Lawler eventually accepted three playful slaps from Cody before dropping the strap and punching Cody across the ring. Duggan then took the hot tag and cleaned house until DiBiase caught him from behind. He slapped on the Million Dollar Dream and transitioned into a Russian legsweep for the pin and the win on Duggan.

WINNERS: DiBiase & Rhodes in 3:00. Fine, but there was no reason to care about Duggan two months after he disappeared from a storyline with potential. Also of note, DiBiase & Rhodes should not be in jeopardy against a tandem over 100 years old. (*)

5 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Intercontinental Title match

Gotta love Santino. He slapped on an abdominal stretch and instantly told the ref to call for the bell for a submission. Kofi easily escaped, then teased a top rope dive before nailing a Russian legsweep. Kofi then landed the boom-boom leg drop smash and Santino rolled to the floor. He wanted a time-out, but Beth Phoenix stormed ringside and told Santino to get back in the ring. Kofi checked on Beth, then slipped back into the ring where Beth tripped him from behind and Kofi ate Santino's knee. Kofi slumped to the mat, then Santino rolled him over and made the cover for the win.

Afterward, Santino backed into a corner when Beth slipped into the ring with a band-age over her nose. Santino was frightened, but Beth pinned his arms back and planted a big kiss. Santino asked, "You not mad?" He then celebrated the victory and Beth not being mad at him by spinning her into the turnbuckle and planting a big kiss on her. Beth then led Santino out of the ring and told him to walk straight, while Santino just wanted to gloat to the fans about winning. Classic.

WINNER: Santino in 3:00 to retain the IC Title. Poor Kofi is stuck in a storyline where Glamarella and Santino's unibrow are more important than Kofi. Santino and Beth are awesome, but Kofi deserves better. Match was just O.K. (3/4*)

6 -- KANE vs. BATISTA

A big power struggle ensued to start things off while the announcers commenting on Cena's injury being part of the game in WWE. Lawler with the line that it's not ballet. That's a pretty ignorant line oft-repeated in wrestling, as ballet requires the same physical commitment and pressure on the joints and body with an amazing amount of time devoted to it. Yes, I have had conversation with a former ballet dancer who had to retire at the age of 20 due to her injuries. In any event, they cut to commercial with Batista on the defensive and Kane enjoying his attack on Batista.

They came back with Kane teasing a chokeslam before focusing his attack on the injured knee. Kane smiled and took great pleasure in going after the knee. At 10:00, Kane took Batista to the outside and slammed his knee into the ring steps to continue the attack. Batista then started his traditional comeback of working on one good body part. He then took Kane face-first into the bottom turnbuckle with a drop toe hold before landing a hard clothesline in the corner. He went for a second, but Kane blocked and wanted a chokeslam.

Batista blocked a chokeslam and nailed a spinebuster on one good leg. Classic Smackdown episodes here, as Batista set up for the Batistabomb, but Kane took out the knee in a nice move. Kane then rolled Batista to the outside and wrapped his leg around the ringpost. Kane then picked up a chair and smashed 99 percent of the ringpost to cause a DQ. Kane then went after the knee some more with more direct blows using the chair. Batista hobbled across the ring, then hobbled into a spear when Kane followed back into the ring. Batista then picked up the chair and landed repeated chair shots to Kane's back before taking Kane's knee across the ringpost for a dose of his own medicine. Batista landed a chair shot to the knee, then another, and another, and another, and another. Batista collapsed to the floor in pain while Kane hobbled away from the ringpost back in the ring. Cole said these two men have beaten the heck out of each other tonight, and what does that mean for their chances in the championship scramble? End show.

WINNER: Batista via DQ in 14:00. About what was expected - a slow-moving, big-man's battle heavy on body-part-work and Kane losing his mind. A unique way to close the show with both men totally spent and neither one having the upper hand after all the energy exerted. Good hook for next week's final sales pitch. (**)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 27 2008, 07:00 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 8-26-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26710.shtml)

1 -- MATT HARDY vs. JOHN MORRISON -- ECW Championship Scramble qualifying match

Striker has already won me over with the opening commentary that Hardy has to adjust his style from wrestling a massive Mark Henry to the quicker John Morrison. Nice back and forth exchange early on, then Morrison blocked a Twist of Fate attempt and knocked Hardy off the apron to the floor.

Back from break, they teased finishers, then Morrison clubbed Hardy with aggressive and wild forearm smashes that took Hardy to the floor. Back in the ring, Morrison smashed Hardy in the face with a knee for a nearfall. Morrison then tried a roll up with his feet on the ropes, but the ref caught him in between two and three. Hardy took advantage with a roll-up attempt, but Morrison escaped. More great pinfall attempts with the announcers getting over the point of how important this match is to qualify for an ECW Title shot.

Morrison then came off the ropes with a springboard kick smash to the face, but Hardy kicked out to a strong reaction. Morrison then clubbed Hardy with forearm smashes, but Hardy shoved off and they had a mid-ring clothesline exchange that knocked out both men. They recovered to their feet and took it home with Morrison teasing the corkscrew neckbreaker, but Hardy slipped out into the Twist of Fate for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 12:00 to qualify for the Scramble. Excellent TV match. They set a good tone for what's at stake tonight: qualifying for an ECW Title opportunity on PPV. Crowd being hot for Hardy helped the match out as well. (**3/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. THE MIZ -- ECW Championship Scramble qualifying match

Even exchange early on, then Miz dumped Bourne off the ring apron to the floor. Miz followed on the outside to attack Bourne and try to take away the aerial attack. Back in the ring, Miz slowed the pace to work over Bourne, but Bourne came back with a standing moonsault for a nearfall. Miz then landed a back elbow smash, but Bourne fired off a leaping knee smash before missing with a huracanrana and landing crotch-first on the top turnbuckle. Grisham: "Miz took Bourne to the capital of Thailand." I think he was waiting all night to say that. Miz then caught Bourne from behind with the Reality Check for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Miz in 8:00 to qualify for the Scramble. Ambitious match for two wrestlers of the similar style and an inexperienced heel working a singles match without Morrison by his side. You want Bourne in that title match to keep pushing him to the moon, but it's fine to hold him back a little to keep building him up on the mid-card before determining how far he can be pushed. (*1/2)

3 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neely) -- ECW Championship Scramble qualifying match

Dreamer landed a running bulldog out of the corner at 2:00, then he followed with a powerslam for a nearfall. Dreamer shot Chavo off to the corner, but Chavo landed a back elbow smash. Dreamer then crotched him in the corner and wanted the running basement dropkick out of the Tree of Woe. Bam then hopped on the top rope and Chavo bumped Dreamer into Bam, temporarily knocking out Dreamer. Chavo then slingshot Dreamer throat-first across the top rope before hopping up top for the frog splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Chavo in 4:00 to qualify for the Scramble. Short and to the point to get Chavo a win and continue using Dreamer in the enhancement talent role. (1/2*)

4 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MIKE KNOX -- ECW Championship Scramble qualifying match

In a disappointing twist to this program, Knox has dropped The Knox twirl coming out of the curtain on the way to the ring. Sadness. Striker with an early Obama reference, saying Knox has flip-flopped more than Obama on whether he wants to fight Finlay or not the past few weeks. The match moved to the outside and Knox missed with a left-arm clothesline and ate the ringpost. Striker said Knox has a Bruiser Brody-like stare. Just without the talent. And cut to break.

Back from break, Knox decided he needed a time-out to nurse his injured forearm. Knox slowly paced the ringside area, so Finlay hopped to the floor and walked right into Knox's lure to accept a powerslam on the padding. Nicely done by Knox. Back in the ring, Knox started his offensive attack to work over Finlay on the mat. Knox suddenly became distracted by Hornswoggle's presence ringside and tried to rip away his coat. Finlay would have none of that and he mounted his full comeback on Knox. Finlay and Hornswoggle then play the ole switcheroo with two shillelaghs and Knox ends up eating the second shillelagh while the ref is trying to get rid of the first one. Finlay then made the cover for the win after landing the shillelagh shot.

WINNER: Finlay in 12:00 to qualify for the Scramble. Slow match with the usual finish for Finlay to earn a victory. A bit below expectations after their strong brawl segment last week. This was more of a let's-have-a-TV-match kind of match rather than continuing a heated feud. Fine match for its purpose, though. (*3/4)

To recap: Mark Henry will defend the ECW Title against Matt Hardy, The Miz, Chavo Guerrero, and Finlay at Unforgiven.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 31 2008, 07:01 am
TNA Impact! Results: 8-28-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26733.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. SOJOURNA BOLT?

Not the Jamaican runner as the opposition, but Bolt went right after Kong with dropkick attempts. Tenay said Bolt showed up the scene looking for the best possible competition. Tenay talked about the Kong vs. Gail Kim street fight last week, and said as a result of Kong's beating on Gail, TNA and Gail have parted ways. Kong smashed Bolt with a clothesline after giving Bolt some offense, then Kong missed with the spinning back fist. A second spinning back fist didn't miss, though, and Bolt ate hand. Kong then finished her off with the Awesomebomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kong in 3:00. Fine squash to re-establish Kong's dominance. (1/2*)

2 -- X Division champion PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Rhaka Khan) & SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED & JAY LETHAL

Back-story is that Petey wasn't happy with Sheik for interfering in his match last week against Creed. Meanwhile, Lethal is still in an "ongoing situation" with Sonjay Dutt, which resulted in So Cal Val being knocked out on Karen's Angle last week. Later tonight, we hear from Val. After some basic tag action, the finish came when Petey and Sheik had another disagreement, leading to Lethal rolling up Petey from behind for the win. Afterward, Petey pointed the finger at Sheik for screwing things up. this led to a shoving match and refs stormed the ring to separate them. So it takes 10 security guards and a bunch of refs to subdue ODB, but only Earl Hebner to subdue Petey?

WINNERS: Lethal & Creed in 4:00. Fine for continuing to build tension between Petey and Sheik, who apparently will be getting an X Division Title shot out of this program. (3/4*)

3 -- JIMMY RAVE (w/Christy Hemme) vs. CURRY MAN

Tenay and West dorked-out talking about Curry Man's entrance, then Curry flew over the top rope with a splash onto Rave during his ring entrance to officially start the match. Curry then finished off Rave with the Spice Rack in three minutes for a quick win.

WINNER: Curry Man in 3:00. Not quite sure why this match took place, but Curry gets a necessary win. I guess it's necessary. That would assume winning a wrestling match on this show with nothing on the line actually means something. (1/2*)

4 -- KURT ANGLE vs. KEVIN NASH -- Qualifying match for TNA Title match at No Surrender

During Angle's ring entrance, Joe cut one of his come-get-some-I'm-right-here promos that was randomly inserted in the broadcast. Nash then came to the ring just going through the motions to conserve energy. The bell sounded and Angle bailed to the floor to yell at Joe, who slowly stood up to make eye contact. Tenay then brought up Joe's anger and temper. Joe said people think it's his Achilles heel, but it helps fuel his success. Back in the ring, Nash nailed a scoop slam, but missed with an elbow drop to set up Angle on the attack. They cut to break with Nash landing a right hand blow.

Back from break, Angle went to work on the surgically-repaired-knees with a figure four leglock. Joe with nice commentary explaining what Nash needed to do to escape the hold, then Nash broke free and nailed a sidewalk slam on Angle. Nash tried to mount his attack on one good knee, then he knocked Angle to the floor. Angle pulled himself up next to the announce table, then Nash slapped Joe to get his attention. Joe lost his temper and jumped up to ringside to stare down Nash, who dropped the straps and went back to work on Angle. Joe then hopped on the apron to inadvertently distract Nash, who took a low blow from behind and the Olympic Slam from Angle. Angle then made the pin and the win.

Afterward, Joe laughed and stepped into the ring with TNA World Title in hand. He screamed at Nash, who backed away while Joe kept screaming at him. Joe told Nash to practice what he preaches, but Nash just left the ring with his head down.

WINNER: Angle in 10:00 to qualify for the TNA Title match. Joe was above-average on commentary after getting a feel for the position with Tenay and West.

5 -- VELVET SKY & ANGELINA LOVE (w/Kip James) vs. TNA Knockouts champion TAYLOR WILDE & ROXX

Everyone's favorite awkward knockout, Roxxi, shoved Angelina to start things off, which put Angelina back in the corner to regroup with Velvet and Kip. Taylor had control on Velvet, but Kip distracted the ref and Angelina smashed Taylor in the face with the make-up kit. They cut to break with the Beautiful People in control.

Back from break, things predictably broke down into a four-woman brawl. Taylor missed with a moonsault from the top, then the ref became quite concerned with Taylor's health. Meanwhile, Roxxi took some Febreeze into the face, allowing Angelina to make the cover and the ref spun back around to make the three count.

WINNERS: Angelina & Velvet in 7:00. As expected with the heels cheating to win to take advantage of the referee incompetence standard for TNA broadcasts.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on August 31 2008, 07:02 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-29-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26743.shtml)

1- R-TRUTH vs. KENNY DYKSTRA

Truth did a lot of dancing on his way out. Dykstra did some mic work and called Truth a convict. He derided WWE for giving time to guys like Truth and not himself.

Truth rolled Kenny up for two within the first minute, then got caught with a clothesline. Kenny started working Truth's back. Killings came back with a flying elbow and an axe kick for the three.

WINNER: R-Truth, at 2:15. Didn't exactly hit it out of the park in his debut.

2- MICHELLE MCCOOL & MARIA vs. MARYSE & NATALYA

Nattie worked a nice headlock, but McCool countered with a Russian leg-sweep. Maria tagged in and for some reason, JR proclaimed Smackdown as having the best officiating in WWE. In the end, Maryse DDT'd Maria for the win.

WINNERS: Maryse & Natalya, at 2:29. Michelle and Natalya matched up well while they were in there.

3- JEFF HARDY vs. MVP

MVP threw Jeff out f the ring, but he landed on his feet. It was all Hardy early on, which caused MVP to go to the outside to re-group. MVP wasted time by trash-talking and Jeff took advantage. The announcers made a big deal out of Jeff keeping his offense grounded. Hardy wrapped MVP's arm around the ring post. MVP took another breather, but Jeff did a flip-dive onto him from the apron.

MVP was on offense out of break and registered a near-fall. Jeff hit his mule kick and corner dropkick, but his Swanton was met by the knees of MVP. He baseball slid Hardy into the ringpost, then sretched Jeff's body around it. Camel Clutch was applied soon after. Jeff got out and climbed the buckle, but MVP tripped him, which led to Hardy taking a nasty bump on his neck and getting folded up in the process. MVP tried a suplex off the top, but JEff turned in mid-air and landed on Porter for a two-count. Hardy barely hit Whisper in the Wind (a recurring theme), then the Swanton for three.

WINNER: Hardy, at 20:11. Wow. Very good match, probably on the verge of four stars.

4- JESSE & FESTUS vs. CURT HAWKINS & ZACK RYDER

Festus cleared the ring of both men at the sound of the bell and the heels began to argue at ringside. Before they could get back in, Big Show's music played and he came out. He destroyed both teams, save Festus.

WINNERS: No Contest, at 1:02.

Show got on the mic and said Vickie is under so much pressure, she's overlooking certain superstars. He said he'd never be overlooked again.

5- VICTORIA vs. BRIE BELLA

Brie monkey-flipped Victoria, who did a lot of trash talking. Victoria missed a charge and got rolled up for two. She didn't like that. Brie had some unique snap-mares, but got caught in a back-breaker. Standing moonsault got two. Victoria knocked Brie out of the ring. She crawled under the ring, but Victoria pulled her back out. Back in the ring, Brie small-packaged Victoria for the win.

WINNER: Bella, at 2:37. Unimpressive debut for Brie. Victoria deserves better.

6- TRIPLE H vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

The two went back-and-forth early on, with Shelton getting some nice arm-drags in. They traded right hands in the corner. Trips worked the arm and shoulder of Shelton. Single-arm DDT by HHH. After some offense, Shelton escaped a Pedigree and went to the outside.

Shelton regained control during the break. He turned a Trips suplex into a neck-breaker for two. Blinger splash in the corner from Shelton, but he missed a second one and HHH clotheslined him from behind. Benjamin got a very near fall after a straight kick to the face of Trips. The Game came back with a spinebuster. As it appeared he was ready to finish it, The Great Khali came out. That drew Triple H's attention, but he did manage to dodge a Shelton attack to hit the Pedigree for the victory.

WINNER: HHH, at 19:15. Another one near four stars. I can't decide which match was better.

Khali stare at Trips from the aisle when Shelton hit HHH from behind with the U.S. belt. Khali then came in and chokeslammed Triple H.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 01 2008, 01:35 pm
Early Saturday morning, Walter "Killer" Kowalski passed away at 81. You can go to various wrestling sites to get the complete story and personal comments on those who knew him. No doubt Triple H will has some words of his own since Kowalski trained him to be a professional wrestler.

Condolences to the Kowalski family and his friends and legion of fans :cry:
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 02 2008, 11:52 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-1-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26761.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results. Lots of talking at the start AND conclusion of RAW.

1 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE HAAS

Kofi finished off the imposter Cena in a little over a minute with the Jamaican buzzsaw kick. Quick squash of The Haas.

WINNER: Kofi in 2:00. Good to see Kofi pick up a win. It will be forgotten on this show, but fine nevertheless. (1/2*)

2 -- ECW BATTLE ROYALE

Chavo and Miz seemed to have an agreement to work together, but Chavo turned on Miz. Henry then eliminated both of them at the same time to begin his attack on Finlay and Hardy. F&H then teased dumping Henry over the top rope at 3:00, but Henry was having none of that, so he eliminated Finlay. Hardy and Henry started to battle. Hardy then tried a Twist of Fate, but Henry easily picked up Hardy and dumped him over the top rope to the floor. Afterward, Tony Atlas had a big celebration with Henry.

WINNER: Henry in 4:00. Fine. A short showcase match for ECW to continue building up Henry. (1/2*)

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Regal just blasted Noble early and often here, with the ref having to intervene several times to get Regal off Noble. Regal landed a release half-nelson suplex, then stared down at Noble's lifeless body. He wanted to inflict more offense, but Noble surprised him with a quick small package for the pin and the win. Layla was a bit shocked ringside, then Noble asked Layla for her congratulations ringside. My goodness, that dress on Layla. Regal didn't even beat up Noble post-match, so it was a good day for Noble.

WINNER: Noble in 3:00. A small bit of progression for this program, fortunately. Not memorable, but fine. (1/2*)

4 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & JILLIAN HALL & KATIE LEA vs. MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY

Beth was in the ring at 3:00 when Candice took a hot tag and dropped Beth with a wicked head scissors into knee smash. Beth came back with a double sledge, but Candice leap frogged in the corner into a seated slam. Candice then went up top with a bit of hesitation. She cleared off the heels, though, and nailed a cross body block. Unfortunately, Beth rolled through into powerslam position. Candice slipped out, though, and scored with a small package on Beth for the pin and the win. Afterward, Candice lowered the strap on her top to show she's healed up from the broken clavicle. Of note, Mickie didn't look enthralled being over-shadowed by the returning Candice vs. Beth program.

WINNERS: Candice & Kelly & Mickie in 4:00. Good, high-energy action to bring back the Beth vs. Candice program. (*)

5 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA vs. D-LO BROWN -- non-title match

Brown busted out the Shining Wizard a minute into the match, then he went for a top rope Lo-Down, but Santino rolled out of the way and Brown ate the mat. Apparently that knocked the wind and catering out of Brown, as Santino casually rolled on top of Brown and scored a three count for the win.

WINNER: Santino in 2:00. Quick match. I suppose more of Santino on the mic and less of him in the ring is for the best. (1/2*)

6 -- RAW BATTLE ROYALE

Batista quickly cleaned house to start things off, then Batista wanted a Batistabomb on Kane, but Kane slipped out. Punk then suddenly clotheslined Batista over the top rope to the floor. After JBL landed boots on Punk and Kane, JBL went for a clothesline on Punk, but Punk ducked and dumped JBL to the floor. So it's Punk vs. Kane. Punk landed three consecutive high knees in the corner, but Kane blocked the bulldog and landed a boot to the face. Punk tried to come back with the G2S, but Kane slipped out. He then choke-tossed Punk over the top rope to the floor, right at the feet of Orton to win the match.

Post-match: Orton gave him a sarcastic round of applause, then Punk stood up and stared back at Orton. They shared a moment, then Punk dumped water on Orton and walked away. Suddenly, Rey Mysterio's music hit and Rey came out on stage to a huge pop. Kane was beside himself that Rey was here. Rey fired into the ring and kicked Kane over and over before taking out the knee. He fired off right hand blows on Kane before setting him up for the 619. Kane slipped out, though, only to find a baseball slide dropkick through the ropes. Rey then flung Kane into the ringpost on the floor before following with a 619 around the ringpost. Rey escaped danger once again by sending Kane over the guardrail to the front row. Rey then ran back into the ring to celebrate his big return ahead of the PPV.

Winner: Kane in 5:00. Rey looked well-tanned and healthy making his return and escaping danger several times. As for the match, Punk was fine picking up two eliminations, but the post-match water-on-Orton was a bit much. Not a big deal, but it will be if he does it too often. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 03 2008, 02:40 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 9-2-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26774.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SUPER CRAZY vs. GAVIN SPEARS

They took it slow allowing plenty of time for Striker to enhance the match. Crazy escaped Gavin's heel mat work and landed a flying kick to the face that wobbled Spears. Crazy mounted his attack, then came off the middle rope with a springboard moonsault for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Crazy in 4:00 over the disillusioned crown jewel. Just fine for Crazy. Apparently Gavin's gimmick is that he sucks, but he thinks he's hot stuff. (1/2*)

2 -- RICKY ORTIZ vs. BRIAN BRADDOCK

Grisham self-deprecated early on here, saying Braddock brushed him aside earlier in the day when Grisham was looking for info for the broadcast. Striker said he got a word with Braddock, who said he's looking to impress any GM in WWE. The deal slowed down into bowling-shoe ugly, which is how Braddock likes it. A few fans started waving the rally towels to inspire Ricky's comeback and he snapped off a swinging powerslam for a nearfall. Ortiz then asked for the towels and he landed the Big O splash off the ropes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ortiz in 5:00 long minutes. Ortiz is a perfect 5-0 now. Not exactly impressive, though. Still learning in the ring and trying to get the towel gimmick going. (3/4*)

3 -- ECW champion MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neely) vs. MATT HARDY & EVAN BOURNE & TOMMY DREAMER & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle)

Action broke down on the outside with Bam getting his from Finlay and Hornswoggle. Apparently that's all Bam is good for these days. They cut to break.

Bourne showed off out of the break, but Henry took a tag and decided to make dinner out of Bourne. The heels then took turns working over Bourne in their corner. Bourne took a nice, long beating before finally landing a head scissors on Chavo to make the tag to Dreamer, who cleaned house. After Henry smashed Dreamer to build another round of heel isolation, Hardy took a hot tag to work on Chavo, who countered with a Northern's Light Suplex to set up Henry for work on Hardy.

Henry missed with a big splash, though, and Bourne came off the top rope with a sick Shooting Star Press on Henry. And I mean sick. He then smashed Miz with the Shining Wizard. Dreamer then tagged in and splashed Henry from the top rope. Goodness, it's broken down. Finlay with a running rear-end splash on Henry's chest, then Hardy got the final hot tag, knocked Atlas off the ring apron, and gave Henry the Twist of Fate. Hardy covered Henry for the win as the crowd went crazy. The babyfaces got their shine in the ring as they replayed Bourne's SSP, then Henry was showing trying to recover with Atlas to close the show.

WINNERS: Team Hardy in 14:00. Excellent conclusion to get the viewers excited for Unforgiven on Sunday. Bourne's Shooting Star Press was just sick and the easy highlight of the night. Nice match. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 06 2008, 11:30 am
TNA Impact! Results: 9-4-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1002662.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Consequences Creed defeated Sheik Abdul Bashir in a number one contender's match for the X-Division championship in 3:35. The crowd was hot for this match; they cheered loudly for Creed and booed just as loudly for Bashir. Creed missed a splash in the corner and Bashir rolled him up using the ropes for the win. The referee restarted the match and Creed quickly won the match...

After the match, Bashir attacked the referee and he came back to kick the shit out of Bashir. Shane Sewell looks better throwing punches than counting falls...

Twill's Two Cents: I hate restarts. They seem to be going down the road of the establishment screwing over Bashir.

2. Beer Money Inc. (with Jacqueline) defeated Shark Boy and Super Eric in a non-title match in 2:18. Curry Man was supposed to come out, but he was being distracted by Christy Hemme backstage. During the match, they cut back to Christy and Curry, where the Rock 'N Rave Infection attacked Curry Man. Storm and Roode scored the win after the Last Call and Payoff...

LAX's music hit and Hernandez cleared Beer Money from the ring. Homicide, with an eye patch, threw Beer Money into the ring. Both members of LAX laid out Beer Money before celebrating with Hector Guerrero and Salinas...

3. Abyss vs. Johnny Devine ended in a no contest in 2:00. Abyss was easily distracted by Team 3D and Devine tried to take advantage. Abyss hit a chokeslam and picked up a chair. He was going to use it but decided against it. Team 3D hit the ring and beat on Abyss. Matt Morgan hit the ring to run off Team 3D...

4. ODB defeated Raisha Saeed in 3:53. Both women fought on the floor before finally entering the ring. Saeed dropkicked ODB back to the floor. Saeed missed a moonsault and ODB followed up with a fallaway slam. She took a drink and hit a powerslam for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: I am not a huge fan of ODB but both women looked good here.

5. Christian Cage defeated A.J. Styles in a Four Ways to Glory qualifier in 12:33. Things started slowly but picked up at the ninety second mark. In a sick spot, Styles tried a springboard but Cage pushed Styles' leg away, causing him to fall awkwardly on the top rope. Cage then missed a move to the floor. Styles followed with a hurricarana...

Cage hit a reverse neckbreaker for a nearfall coming back from commercial. Styles hit the moonsault inverted DDT for a very close nearfall. Both men exchanged right hands before Styles hit a huge dropkick following an Irish whip sequence. Cage hit a closeline and missed a frogsplash.

Styles went for the Styles Clash but Cage countered into an Unprettier attempt. Styles hit the Pele kick. Both men fought to the top rope. Cage pushed Styles off and immediately followed in with a frogsplash, almost literally in one motion, for a two count.

Cage went to the top again and Styles backdropped him to the mat. He tried and missed the Spiral Tap. Cage went for the Unprettier again but Styles pushed Cage into the referee. Frank Trigg hit the ring and nailed Styles with a kendo stick. Cage hit the Unprettier for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Great match but that was expected. I do not love the finish but given the setup, someone had to lose.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 06 2008, 02:42 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-5-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002674.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1. R-Truth beat Bam Neely (w/Chavo Guerrero) in 2:15. Killings hollered, "What's Up?" early in the match and got a loud "What's Up?" response from the crowd. Neely mocked him moments later and the live crowd booed. Killings finished off Neely with the scissors kick for the win.

Powell's POV: Either this match wasn't included in the match listing sent by our correspondent or I simply missed it when I put together the preview for today's show, so this was a nice surprise.

2. Shelton Benjamin pinned MVP in a non-title match in 3:45. Before the match, a brief Shelton promo aired on the big screen. In the end, Shelton hit Paydirt out of nowhere and scored the clean pin...

Powell's POV: Nothing memorable about this match, not that they were given much time. They're really going above and beyond to get Shelton over.

3. Maryse pinned Maria in 2:55. Back and forth action during the opening minute, but Maryse is getting the title shot on Sunday so she dominated down the stretch and finished off Maria with a DDT. Afterward, Michelle McCool walked out and stood face-to-face with Maryse on the stage...

Powell's POV: The match wasn't pretty, but Maryse didn't seem so phony with her mannerisms this week. She came across like the unlikable ***** they want her to. Big improvement from the going through the motions looks she flashed last week.

4. The Brian Kendrick (w/Ezekiel Jackson) defeated Jeff Hardy in 4:55. Ross spent some time trying to establish Zeke as the X factor that could help Kendrick win the title on Sunday. Kendrick got some offense in and bumped all over for Hardy. At one point, Hardy hit him with a reverse powerbomb-like move. Hardy was in control of the match when the action spilled to ringside and Zeke grabbed Hardy from behind and slammed him into the guardrail. Moments later, Kendrick hit The Kendrick for the win...

Powell's POV: Very nice job of building up Kendrick heading into Sunday's pay-per-view.

5. Super Crazy pinned Ryan Braddock in 1:20. Back and forth action until Crazy hit a quick moonsault and scored the pin.

Powell's POV: I'm always happy to see Crazy win a match because he's been underutilized in WWE for too long. However, I think Braddock has a good look and could be a player in WWE in the future, so I'm surprised they're treating him like a glorified jobber.

6. Brie Bella beat Victoria in 2:45. Same gimmick as last week. Victoria was in control of the match when Brie crawled under the ring. When she out from underneath the ring, she came back "invigorated" and rolled up Victoria for the win...

7. Triple H pinned Great Khali (w/Runjin Singh) in a lumberjack match in 9:55. Hardy, MVP, Shelton, Kendrick, and Ezekiel served as the lumberjacks. Hunter was tossed to ringside about a minute into the match. The heels at ringside laid the boots to him while Hardy stood and watched. [C] Khali continued to dominate with help from the heels at ringside. He hit a Khali Bomb for a nearfall.

Later, the heels were putting the boots to Hunter at ringside again when Hardy flipped over the top rope onto them. Hunter made a brief comeback, but was eventually locked in the Khali Vice. The announcers noted that everyone who has taken the move had fallen victim to it in the past. Hunter broke free. Moments later, he hit the Pedigree and scored the clean pin.

After the match, Hardy entered the ring and applauded Hunter, who patted him on the shoulder and thanked him. As Hunter was walking away, Hardy spun him around, kicked him in the gut, and hit the Twist of Fate. Hardy stood over Hunter to close the show...

Powell's POV: Good finish that established Hunter and Hardy won't be working as a bayface team against all the heels on Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 08 2008, 01:22 pm
WWE Unforgiven PPV Results: 9-7-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_26835.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring reports, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8207 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2585537&postcount=8207) and posts thereafter or TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to WWE Unforgiven PPV Results: 9-7-08) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2247393.html)

1 -- ECW TITLE SCRAMBLE MATCH -- 20-minute time limit
Matt Hardy and The Miz start the Scramble.
Chavo Guerrero enters at 5:00:
Chavo pins Hardy
Hardy pins Miz
Mark Henry enters at 10:00:
Henry pins Chavo
Finlay enters at 15:00:
Finlay pins Hardy
Hardy pins Miz
WINNER: Hardy in 20:00 to capture the ECW Title. Well, it had its moments, but it came across like a pretty cheap way for Hardy to capture the belt. At least it will set up the Henry vs. Hardy return match where Atlas can't interfere or else he'll cost Henry the title. (*1/2)

2 -- World tag team champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & J.T.G.) -- World Tag Title match
WINNERS: Rhodes & DiBiase in 12:00. Slow-paced match that was heavy on Rhodes and DiBiase working on JTG, as expected. Just fine, but not memorable other than the post-match debut. (*1/2)

3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- Unsanctioned match
WINNER: Michaels via ref stoppage in 28:00. What a story. Just right in line with TV, as the story didn't follow a traditional pro wrestling storyline, but it was at a higher level in terms of psychology and intensity. Tough to rate this one based on traditional wrestling standards, but the story was so advanced that it will be remembered at the end of the year. (****1/2)

4 -- WWE TITLE SCRAMBLE MATCH -- 20-minute time limit
Jeff Hardy and U.S. champion Shelton Benjamin start the scramble.
The Brian Kendrick enters at 5:00:
Hardy pins Kendrick
Kendrick pins Hardy
MVP enters at 10:00, Triple H enters at 15:00:
Triple H pins Kendrick
Hardy pins MVP
Triple H pins Hardy
Hardy pins Kendrick
Triple H pins MVP
WINNER: Hunter in 20:00 to retain the WWE Title. Very nice concept match. Kendrick has a star-making performance despite the near-comedic double Pedigrees from Hunter, while the focus on Hardy created a nice moment for Hardy to continue his journey toward the WWE Title. Really nicely done with a good dose of athleticism, fresh faces, and close action. (***1/2)

5 -- Divas champion MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MARYSE -- Smackdown divas match
WINNER: Michelle in 6:00 to retain the Divas Title. Crowd was a little tough on the divas, who put together a nice match. Wasn't great or memorable, but they held their own in the ring. (*1/4)

6 -- RAW CHAMPIONSHIP SCRAMBLE MATCH -- 20-minute time limit
JBL and Batista start the scramble.
Kane enters at 4:00:
Kane pins JBL.
Rey Mysterio enteres at 8:00, followed by Chris Jericho at 12:00...yes, you read right!
Batista pins Kane
Jericho pins Kane
WINNER: Jericho in 18:00 to become World Hvt. champion. Well, that sets up some amazing TV between Jericho and Michaels, who thought he got the best of Jericho tonight. Sucks for Punk, who wasn't even a factor in the conclusion of his first World Title reign, but the Orton vs. Punk feud could be a strong part of TV going forward this fall. Match wasn't that good with a lot of sluggish moments, but Jericho's surprise win made up for it. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 09 2008, 01:51 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-8-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26851.shtml). Except for the opening report, condensed to in-ring results only.

Start of show:
The show started with Lillian Garcia in center ring. She introduced the...new World Heavyweight champion Chris Jericho to a chorus of boos. Jericho then slowly made his way to the ring all-smiles with the World Title slung over his suit-clad shoulder. Announcers went silent during the intro, then Jericho's music stopped and Jericho began to gloat about his good fortune. Jericho recapped Unforgiven for people confused by what happened.

He said he faced the wrath of a self-righteous hypocrite last night, then he took off his jacket and dress shirt to show what this "good person" did to him last night. Jericho raised up his arm to show the welts and bruises on his side and back from Michaels last night. He asked what kind of a man would do this to another human being - a hypocrite. Jericho said Michaels whipped him like a dog and all the people savored it last night. He said when all the bravado goes away, Michaels didn't win anything. Jericho said that match was an Unsanctioned match, which means it never really occurred. He said Michaels won nothing; meanwhile, he won the World Title.

Jericho paused for dramatic gloating effect with the title belt held close to his face, then he said good things happen to good people and he is a good person. Jericho said he is a righteous, honest man who does exactly what he says he's going to do. Jericho said he was trying to recover backstage after the Unsanctioned match, then Mike Adamle asked him to replace Punk, and he won the World Title.

Jericho said everyone is now forced to recognize how great he really is. He said he's better than Shawn Michaels and he's also the new World champ. Jericho smiled it up, then Adamle appeared on stage to congratulate Jericho. He said C.M. Punk suffered a concussion last night and he wasn't medically cleared to compete. Adamle told Jericho that he answered the call, but the fact remains that Punk lost his title without having a chance to defend it. He said Punk isn't here tonight, but next week, Punk will be given a chance to regain the title with Punk vs. Jericho for the World Title. He added that the match will take place inside a 15-foot-high steel cage.

Jericho said that doesn't bother him any because he beat Punk in his hometown before and he'll beat him next week. He said he's ready to leave this place and he'll see Punk next week. Adamle told Jericho not to fast because he needs a main event tonight. Adamle booked Jericho in a match tonight against... Batista. Jericho's wounds and bruises suddenly hurt a little bit more, as Jericho paced the ring with a pained scowl on his face.


1 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Women's Title match

Beth quickly showed off her power in the opening minutes, dragging Mickie in and out of the ring to inflict punishment. Mickie then blocked a corner move and snapped off a head scissors. Candice was shown chuckling to herself sitting in the director's chair ringside. Beth then blocked a top rope move and flung Mickie hard to the mat with a power move for the pin and the win. Rather decisive victory. Beth then stared down Candice, who stood up and giggled at Beth.

WINNER: Beth in 4:00. Rather surprising squash of Mickie, who will obviously be playing to second fiddle to Candice from now on. (1/2*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Regal quickly went after Noble with aggressive forearms in the corner, with Lawler deciding to call Layla's facial reactions to Noble taking a beating. Noble suddenly came back with an enziguiri and cannonball splash in the corner, which Regal blocked with a knee to the back of the head. Regal then smashed Noble with a running knee to the head for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Regal took the mic and said happy endings only happen in fairy tales. Well, elsewhere, too, but we won't get into that. Regal then slipped to the outside and stared down Layla, who didn't react to Regal's presence. Regal then extended his arm and Layla slowly accepted his offer. Regal led Layla around the ring while Layla looked confused by the situation. She looked back into the ring once or twice, but ultimately left with Regal. She went for one last peek back into the ring before disappearing with Regal.

WINNER: Regal in 3:00. Short squash and intriguing post-match to continue the program. Wait and see on this one. There's just been a noticeable void of strong babyfaces without Punk or Cena on this week's show. (1/2*)

3 -- JBL vs. CHL

The bell sounded and JBL simply walked out of the ring with his head hung low. Ref started his ten count while JBL just left. Haas was then declared the winner via countout. He celebrated with a giant celebration.

WINNER: CHL via countout. Well, hopefully this leads to something new for JBL. I'm suspecting the "give me respect" storyline, but a change of pace for JBL would be refreshing. (n/a)

4 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. REY MYSTERIO & EVAN BOURNE

It will be very interesting to see how this quarter-hour rates with some amazing high-flying action on display as opposed to the usual established-stars-type match for this quarter hour. Rey and Bourne busted out some sick moves, then Rey flipped Bourne over the top rope into a huracanrana on Miz on the floor. Back in the ring, Bourne wanted a top rope move on Miz, but Morrison knocked Bourne off the top behind the ref's back to set up the heels on the offensive. Rey then took a hot tag at 5:00 and went to work on Morrison with rapid-fire kicks. He set him up for the 619, but Miz tripped Rey from the floor. Back in the ring, Morrison kicked Rey in the face, but Bourne broke up a pin.

The action broke down at 6:00, then Morrison accidentally smashed Miz with a roundhouse kick. Rey took advantage by dialing up the 619 on Morrison to a huge reaction. Bourne wanted the tag, then Rey granted him his wish and Bourne went up top. Crowd rose to their feet as Bourne set up and nailed the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Rey & Bourne in 7:00. Nice, nice match with plenty of high-energy to pick up the pace on the show and deliver a good dose of young superstar babyface hope after an hour of babyfaces doing absolutely nothing. Well done. (**1/4)

Post-match: The arena went dark, then Kane's music hit and he appeared on the video screen. Kane said he will explain the storyline next week when he tells Rey why he chose him as a victim. Kane provided a very special hint by flashing his old red and black mask toward the camera. Kane laughed maniacally, while Rey tried to play it cool in the ring.

5 -- World tag team champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. & MANU vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD & J.T.G.) & KOFI KINGSTON

Manu impressive early on working over Kofi in the heel corner. Shad took a hot tag, then the action broke down in the ring. Bodies went flying, then Manu finished off Shad with a lift-up neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Well, I thought Manu would be brought in to be the designated jobber for the team, but that certainly wasn't the case here.

WINNERS: Team 2G in 4:00. Manu looked quite impressive in his national TV debut. Quite the stable forming to bolster the undercard.

6 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix) vs. SNITSKY -- non-title match

Snitsky missed with a big boot in the corner, then Santino kinda pushed Snitsky down on the mat and rolled him up for the quick pin. Afterward, Beth and Santino shared a moment of kissing ringside. Snitsky seemed to be turned on by this, rather than angered by the loss.

WINNER: Santino in 1:00. Well, we're apparently in line for some Snitsky loving for Beth and Santino. Joy. (n/a)

7a -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO (w/Lance Cade) vs. BATISTA -- non-title match

Batista just beat the crap out of Jericho to start things off, then Jericho slumped to the floor to recover. Mike Adamle walked out on stage and admitted to under-estimating the health of Jericho tonight. He said he needs a main event-quality match with star power, so he's making this a handicap match. And Jericho's partner is Lance Cade...hahahaha...no, it's JBL. Adamle stepped aside, then JBL walked out on stage and locked eyes with Batista on the way to the ring.

7b -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO (w/Lance Cade) & JBL vs. BATISTA

Jericho played the big pesk here, allowing JBL to use Jericho's distraction to nail Batista in the head with a boot. JBL and Jericho then started double-teaming Batista in their corner with Jericho suddenly showing improved health after playing dead in part A of the match.

Batista made a comeback and wanted to finish off Jericho, but Cade hopped on the apron to distract Batista. JBL then surprised Batista with a Clothesline from Hell and Jericho snuck over to make the cover on Batista for the pin and the win. Jericho collapsed to the announce table in front of an irate Cole.

WINNERS: Jericho & JBL in 10:00. Good win for the heels to set up Batista getting the final say in the post-match. (*)

After the bell, JBL and Cade took turns working over Batista in the ring. Cade got to see home action while JBL shouted at Batista that he's not so tough right now. Suddenly, Batista came flying off the ropes with a double shoulder tackle before delivering double spinebusters. Batista called for the end, then he gripped Cade and gave him a Batistabomb in center ring. Batista came up worn out while Jericho was shown standing on top of the ramp posing with the World Title. Jericho had this utterly classic evil grin on his face while cuddling up with the title belt. Cole gave the final pitch for the steel cage title match next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 14 2008, 12:23 pm
Vegas was very good to me...at the sum of $1000!!! :D

I'm back and playing catch-up so I'll post the match winners of each show. Complete reports as always at PWTorch.com (http://www.pwtorch.com) and condensed in-ring results at the Neo-Geo Forum - direct links to ECW, (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2589225&postcount=8228) TNA Impact! (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2589225&postcount=8228) and Smackdown (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2589225&postcount=8228) (click each name for direct links to each show's report).

ECW on Sci-Fi Results: 9-9-08
1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JOHN MORRISON (w/The Miz)
WINNER: Morrison in 14:00. Nice match. Wasn't particularly flashy, but Morrison played a good heel while Bourne got the crowd involved as the sympathetic babyface character. Good formula match to give Morrison a credible victory and set up Bourne for revenge. (**1/2)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. JOSH DANIELS
WINNER: Swagger in 2:00. Interesting. Swagger has a good look to him with size and height, but a WWE crowd in 2008 probably isn't looking to cheer him.

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & MIKE KNOX (w/unshaven beard)
WINNERS: Hardy & Finlay in 11:00. Basic, formula match to close the show. Pretty much went as expected, and we'll probably see Henry with the upper hand on next week's show to keep it even-steven to set up a probable one-on-one title match at the next PPV. (*1/2)

TNA Impact! Results: 9-11-08
1 -- ABYSS vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE
WINNER: No Contest in 4:00. As expected, a non-finish to a match between two semi-main event wrestlers. Fine set up for the tag match to follow... (*)

2 -- AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. ROXXI -- Bimbo Brawl
WINNER: Kong in 7:00 with TV. Roxxi had good offense to keep Kong honest, but that cut on the forehead was a bit much. (*)

3 -- SAMOA JOE'S KEVIN NASH GAUNTLET CHALLENGE
WINNER: Joe in 7:00. That certainly felt the culmination of a long journey of screaming promos, annoying Joe, frustrated Nash, and distraction-filled matches. It definitely seemed like Nash walking off into the sunset after trying to bring Joe to his level of mental superiority. Nice segment focused on the ***-kicking Joe we want to see. (*)

4 -- BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) & KURT ANGLE vs. MATH MORGAN & ABYSS
WINNERS: Angle & Booker in 10:00. Basic pre-PPV main event with interference to lead into the PPV. Silver lining, as it seems every month, is that the babyface(s) have a reason to seek comeuppance. (*1/4)

WWE Smackdown Results: 9-12-08
1 -- NATALYA & MARYSE & VICTORIA vs. MARIA & MICHELLE MCCOOL & BRI BELLA
WINNERS: Mara & Bri & McCool in 5:00.
STAR RATING: 1/2*

2 -- R-TRUTH vs. CHAVO GUERRERO (w/Bam Neely)
WINNER: R-Truth in 4:00.
STAR RATING: 1/2*

3 -- KENNY DYKSTRA vs. FESTUS (w/Jesse)
WINNER: No decision.

4 -- FUNAKI & SCOTTY GOLDMAN vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV
WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00.

5 -- CURT HAWKINS & ZACH RYDER vs. CARLITO & PRIMO COLON - Non-Title Match
WINNERS: Colon Brothers in 7:00.
STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Traditional tag match, but solid action.

6 -- MVP vs. BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel) vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. JEFF HARDY
WINNER: Hardy in 16:00 to earn a title shot at No Mercy.
STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Slow at the start, but a good dose of chaos and near falls with a satisfying and cool looking finish helps give it a thumbs up.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 15 2008, 01:18 pm
TNA No Surrender PPV Results: 9-14-08

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_26932.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8231 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2589680&postcount=8231) and posts thereafter or a complete in-ring report of the PPV can be viewed at TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to latest entry) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2267693.html)

1 -- SUPER ERIC & SHARK BOY & CURRY MAN vs. JIMMY RAVE & LANCE ROCK & CHRISTY HEMME
WINNERS: Shark & Curry & Eric in 9:00.
STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Better than it had any right to be. Well booked and executed. Curry's act of being a ladies man fit his role in the match.

2 -- AWESOME KONG (w/Ryesha Saeed) vs. ODB
WINNER: Kong in 10:00.
STAR RATING: *3/4 -- I can't go higher because I was seriously worried for their well-being at various times and it got sloppy and unrealistic - or too realistic. They made it seem too real to the point of it being uncomfortable to watch, but they put in a real strong effort overall to have a memorable match. There are just some moves they probably shouldn't be doing given their weight-to-strength ratio mixed with sweat and fatigue leading to serious danger for both.

3 -- MATT MORGAN & ABYSS vs. TEAM 3D
WINNERS: Abyss & Morgan in 11:00.
STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Sloppy and clunky a lot of the time, but good enough at other times to be mostly okay.

4 -- PETEY WILLIAMS (w/Rhaka Khan) vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR -- X Division Championship match
WINNER: Bashir in 9:00 to capture the X Division Championship.
STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Good action. The fact that Bashir's music is the sound of airplanes crashing into a building and exploding is among the most scummy promoting tactics in history. Just beyond words how absolutely disgusting it is. It's the type of thing that should put a risk in their deals with Spike TV and InDemand, it's that bad. Coming three days after the anniversary makes it worse, but it really isn't acceptable on any day.

5 -- TAYLOR WILDE vs. ANGELINA LOVE (w/Velvet Sky, Kute Kip) -- TNA Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Taylor Wilde in 6:00 to retain the TNA Knockouts Title.
STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Short, but good action. It's another one of those finishes that TNA does too often because it consciously or subconsciously conditions fans not to believe a match can end until there's some sort of interference or ref bump or whatever.

6 -- "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL vs. SONJAY DUTT -- Battle to Wed So Cal Val - Ring on a Pole Match
WINNER: Dutt in 15:00.
STAR RATING: **** -- Really good ladder match. They managed to really innovate and not rely on the standard ladder spots we've seen so often before. The problem with the finish is that it made no sense that Val would save Lethal seconds before turning on him. It's one of those things that's done for drama that doesn't seem the least bit realistic.

7 -- BEER MONEY INC. vs. LAX (Hernandez & Homicide) -- TNA Tag Team Title match
WINNERS: Beer Money in 8:00 to retain the TNA Tag Team Titles.
STAR RATING: *1/4 -- Basic match. Nothing wrong with it, but despite the highpoints late, it felt like a match to cool down the crowd after the ladder match. Another finish that conditions viewers to never consider a pinfall attempt a serious potential finish until there's some sort of interference - such as powder from Jackie this time.

8 -- FRANK TRIGG vs. A.J. STYLES -- Three Round Submission (MMA-style) match
WINNER: No contest. The brief image of the naked women will be talked about for years as one of the funniest blunders on pro wrestling PPV, and not so funny for parents watching with their kids. Cable companies across the country might be bombarded with irate parents tomorrow.

9 -- SAMOA JOE vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE vs. KURT ANGLE -- TNA World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Joe in 16:00.
STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Good match. The booking made sense within TNA's style, but it's yet another example of a match ending only after obvious outside interference.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2008, 12:31 am
WWE RAW Results: 9-15-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26940.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view condensed in-ring results including JBL/Orton/Batista confrontation and the Jericho/Michaels ending, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8242. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2590550&postcount=8242)

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. C.M. PUNK -- World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Jericho in 15:00 to retain the World Hvt. Title.
STAR RATING: ***1/2 -- Very good match. Five or ten minutes away from four-stars plus. It felt like a main event worthy performance from both. The finish further cements Jericho as the new "luckiest champion in the world."

2 -- CANDICE MICHELLE vs. JILLIAN HALL
WINNER Candice in 4:00.
STAR RATING: 3/4*

3 -- JBL vs. TOMMY DREAMER
WINNER: JBL in 2:00.

4 -- TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES & MANU vs. KOFI KINGSTON & JERRY LAWLER & "GOOD OL' J.H."
WINNERS: Rhodes & DiBiase & Manu in 3:00.

5 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. JAMIE NOBLE
WINNER: Noble in 1:00.

6 -- KANE vs. REY MYSTERIO
WINNER: Mysterio in 9:00.
STAR RATING: **1/4

[Final Word: Best wishes to usual Raw Report cohort James Caldwell, who is based out of Houston, Tex. and is without power and water this week and recovering from the destruction of Hurricane Ike last week. He and his family are all fine, but everyone is in trying to comprehend the massive and widespread damage to the town and work to get things back to normal.]
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2008, 12:32 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 9-16-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002800.shtml)

1. Matt Hardy defeated Mike Knox in a non-title match in 12:38. During Hardy's entrance, footage was shown of how he became the ECW Champion at Unforgiven. That was followed by the announcement that Hardy will defend the ECW Championship at No Mercy vs. Mark Henry. Knox has a gross laceration on his face that Hardy gave to him. It looked like he had herpes on his cheek.

After some back and forth action, Knox gained the advantage. Striker called the ECW title belt "Seventeen pounds of pure platinum." Knox was impressive on offense as Hardy continued to attempt coming back. In a very cool spot, Hardy tried the Twist of Fate but could not turn Knox over. So, he hit a DDT for a two count. Knox broke the count by putting his foot on the rope. Both men hit simultaneous closelines on the floor...

Knox had Hardy grounded with a reverse chinlock coming back from commercial. Hardy broke loose by Knox hit a surprising dropkick. Nicely done. Knox scored multiple nearfalls after hitting a succession of various suplexes. Hardy knocked Knox from the ropes and tried a moonsault, hitting his face on Knox's back as he rolled away. Knox scored another two count.

Hardy hit the Side Effect for a two count before hitting a second rope tornado DDT. He followed that up with the Twist of Fate for the clean victory...

Twill's Two Cents: Very good match. Knox is impressive with his power offense and even his uncharacteristic moves. Hardy sold like a champ (no pun intended) and also looked great when he had the advantage. This was a nice example of making a champion and his opponent look strong.

2. Evan Bourne (with Ricky Ortiz) defeated The Miz (with John Morrison) in 5:27. Miz and Bourne exchanged hard left hands early. Miz kicked Bourne to the floor. Morrison and Ortiz approached Bourne. Morrison told Ortiz to give Carlito his hair back. Funny. Miz turned Bourne inside out with a lariat and continued to work on the back and ribs area.

Bourne hit a standing kick to Miz's face. He followed that up with a standing moonsault for a nearfall. He went to the top rope but Miz threw him to the mat. Miz hit a springboard dropkick for a nearfall. Morrison grabbed Bourne's leg and was ambushed by Ortiz. Miz was distracted and Bourne scored the pinfall with that unique rollup that he does...

Twill's Two Cents: That was a short but very good match. Bourne vs. Miz or Morrison would be a great match every single week.

3. Jack Swagger defeated Chase Stevens in 1:46. Swagger still looks like a smaller Brock Lesnar who smiles a lot. Swagger hit a nice gutwrench suplex that Striker loved. Swagger hit his finisher (side suplex into a powerbomb) for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Swagger looked great. Striker sounds hilarious saying his name. Ricky Ortiz should watch Swagger to figure out how to be interesting.

4. Mark Henry (with Tony Atlas) defeated Finlay (with Hornswoggle) in 14:07. Henry looked pissed. Finlay became serious when the bell rang. Grisham said Henry can hammer nails with his hands and straighten horseshows. Striker said Finlay's name meant "the fair haired warrior."

Henry was very cerebral and plodding in between each impressive, powerful move. With Finlay on the apron, Atlas took a shot at him too. Finlay remained down on the floor as the show went into its final commercial of the night...

Henry had a nerve hold applied across the clavicle of Finlay coming back from commercial. Henry scored a couple of nearfalls and continued to punish Finlay with powerful slams and boots.

Striker remembered The Undertaker pinning Hulk Hogan at Judgment Day for the Undisputed Championship in 2002 in Nashville. Nice. Finlay put Henry's head in the ring apron and pounded on him. Atlas came around and pushed Hornswoggle. Finlay went after Atlas. Henry grabbed Horny and Finlay snuck up and hit him in the arm with the shillegleh.

Finlay applied a Fujiwara armbar but Henry broke out of it. Finlay scored a two count after hitting a DDT while Henry was on his knees. With both men struggling, Henry hit the World's Strongest Slam out of nowhere for the win. Henry sold his arm after the match...

Twill's Two Cents: That was an old school Henry match but I liked it. Henry has never been Mr. Workrate and he does not have to be. Finlay sold for him here and although Finlay was not on offense for long, he still looked fine in defeat as Henry looks strong for his title shot.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 20 2008, 10:56 am
TNA Impact! Results: 9-18-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_26994.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- A.J. STYLES & CHRISTIAN CAGE vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNNS (Alex Shelly & Chris Sabin)

Styles and Sabin were just a pleasure to watch at the start of the match. Christian hot-tagging Styles at 3:00. Styles took Sabin down with a spin wheel kick. Styles went for his armbar submission. West said Styles learned that from Trigg, although it was Styles who used it against Trigg in their match. Christian evened the odds with a frog splash on Sabin, then a fallaway slam on Shelly. Christian dove onto Shelly at ringside as Styles finished Sabin with a Styles Clash.

WINNERS: Styles & Christian in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Really good four minutes of action. It's an example of why the Guns deserve better than being basically jobbers to the stars on Impact.

2 -- "MAPLE LEAF MUSCLE" PETEY WILLIAMS & JOHNNY DEVINE & JIMMY RAVE (w/Lance Rock, Christy Hemme) vs. SUPER ERIC & SHARK BOY & CURRY MAN ("The Prince Justice Brotherhood")

At 2:00 Devine got cocky as he went on a flurry against Curry. When he charged at Curry as Petey held him, Curry broke free and he collided with Petey. Super Eric hot-tagged in and fended off an attack by all three heels. Devine broke up a pin attempt on Petey. In the midst of the chaos, Super Eric hit a bodyblock off the ropes onto Petey after Devine and Rave mistakenly clotheslined him as he was setting up a Canadian Destroyer, which led to Eric scoring a three count.

WINNERS: Brotherhood in 4:00.

3 -- "BLACK MACHISMO: JAY LETHAL vs. KING BOOKER (w/Sharmell)

Machismo knocked Booker over the top rope in the opening minute. Then he slide out of the ring and forearmed Booker from behind. Booker kicked back and took control. Lethal came back with a springboard dropkick. Lethal climbed to the top rope, but Sharmell distracted the ref, which distracted Lethal. Booker recovered and caught Lethal coming off the top rope to take over the match. At 5:00 Lethal made a comeback. Sharmell tripped Lethal from ringside seconds later and Booker caught Lethal suddenly with a scissors kick for the win.

WINNER: Booker in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Good pace and execution and energy.

4 -- VELVET SKY & CUTE KIP vs. RHINO & TAYLOR WILDE

How did they resist calling him "Kute Kip" instead of "Cute Kip"? West and Tenay hyped the return of Jarrett after nearly two years. West said Jarrett's been in "the business" as long or longer than Sting (it's longer), so what does he think of Sting's problems with the younger generation's respect. Kip was swung into ref Slick Johnson in one of the lamer ref collisions you'll ever see. Kip basically stopped before he got to him, then Johnson held his arm like someone whacked it with a baseball bat. Sky choked Rhino and kicked him at 2:00 once Kip had beaten him down. Kip punched Rhino from the floor to help her retain the advantage and then tag Kip back in. Taylor and Sky tagged in at 3:00. Rhino gave Kip a Gore seconds later when Kip tried to interfere. Love handed Sky a pipe. Taylor kicked it out of her hands before she could use it, then leveraged her to the mat for a three count. Tenay said Taylor answers any challenge she's given.

WINNER: Taylor & Rhino in 4:00.

18 minutes of wrestling out of a two-hour show. Though I haven't watched the show, according to the report, Jeff Jarrett came out, did a lot of talking with Sting, then Kurt Angle and a cameo appearance by Mick Foley and that's your show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 21 2008, 09:18 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-19-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002833.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view condensed in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8248 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2593105&postcount=8248) or  TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog- This Week In Wrestling (direct link to latest entry). (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2274283.html)

1. Michelle McCool pinned Maryse to retain the WWE Divas Championship in 5:15.
Powell's POV: Both women tried hard and they seemed to be making an effort to play to the crowd more even though their mannerisms seemed forced.

2. Festus (w/Jesse) fought Ryan Braddock to an apparent no-contest in 2:45.
Powell's POV: I don't know whether they're trying to protect Braddock by not having Festus pin him or bury him by having the match end with the tape spot.

3. R-Truth defeated Shelton Benjamin in a non-title match in 9:40.
Powell's POV: The match wasn't very exciting with Shelton dominating on the mat, but the live crowd is really into R-Truth and they popped big when he won. This must have been the upset that J.R. mentioned in his blog. The Helms thing was short and sweet. Although he referred to himself as Hurricane, he wasn't wearing his old Hurricane costume.

4. Jeff Hardy pinned The Brian Kendrick (w/Ezekiel Jackson) in 7:50.
Powell's POV: I'm intrigued by the Kozlov and Hardy feud. I don't expect it to be a series of great matches, but the buildup has been strong thus far.

5. Great Khali (w/Runjin Singh) squashed Scotty Goldman in 1:35. Total squash.
Powell's POV: I guess the fans will be forced to cheer for, um, well, uh...I have no idea which wrestler the fans will root for in this epic showdown that is sure to produce a five-star mat classic. WWE is hyping plenty of matches because they want one more chance to remind viewers about the big move to MyNetwork Television.

6. Triple H pinned MVP in a non-title match in 14:00.
Powell's POV: Kozlov is getting the mega-push. I thought they were going to take their time with him until I watched this show. I didn't think they did MVP any favors tonight. The live crowd isn't reacting to him right now, but WWE isn't giving him any meaningful mic time to get his heat back.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread is NOT dead: it's BACK!!!
Post by: Arcademan on September 23 2008, 02:27 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-22-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27010.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. CODY RHODES

Cody threw Punk to the floor early. He showed some good cocky facial expressions. Punk then kicked Cody at ringside to try to take control, but Cody came right back throwing Punk head-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, when Punk almost executed his Go To Sleep out of nowhere, Cody slipped out and rolled out of the ring for a breather. They cut to a break at 6:00.

Cody had control after the break. Punk made a comeback at 11:00 and hit the Go To Sleep for the win.

WINNER: Punk in 12:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Solid match.

-Afterward, Manu and Ted DiBiase jumped Punk. Kofi Kingston made the save. If someone didn't watch Raw for a year and suddenly tuned in, they wouldn't recognize anyone in this scene.

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix) vs. DEUCE

Santino told Deuce before the match that if Batista messes with him, he'll beat him up just like he's about to beat up Fonzie. He then said, "Happy days are over." They wisely didn't book this to last long. Santino won quickly with a sunset flip.

WINNER: Santino in 1:00.

3 -- KANE vs. EVAN BOURNE

Cole called Bourne gusty for standing up for Rey last week. Bourne leapfrogged Kane at the start, then roundkicked him in the shoulder. Kane smiled and shook it off. Bourne dove under Kane and then nailed him with an enzuigiri. Kane said, "Play time is over." Kane then lifted Bourne, but Bourne slipped out and kicked Kane several times.

Kane came back and stomped Bourne into the mat. He went for an elbow, but Bourne moved. Bourne went for a crucifix, but Kane stood his ground and then punched Bourne in the face. Not much crowd heat for Bourne as he showed a ton of grit and speed early. He went for a DDT off the second rope, but Kane blocked it. He went for a big boot, but Bourne moved and knocked Kane over the top rope. He followed with a shooting star press that just grazed Kane. Back in the ring, Bourne hit his top rope double knee dive for a two count at 3:00. Kane caught Bourne mid-air with a right punch. Kane gave Bourne three backbreakers over his knee, then lifted him and slammed him upside down into the corner, then finished him with a running powerslam. Kane chokeslammed Bourne for the win.

WINNER: Kane in 5:00.

STAR RATING: * -- I was worried they'd squash Bourne here, but they gave him more than enough to not lose much in this loss. It's not as if WWE was going to push him as Kane's equal anytime soon, so giving him as much offense as they did was a showcase for what he can do and his potential.

3 -- "GLAMAZON" BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY

Santino tripped Kelly coming off the ropes at 2:00. Phoenix charged at Santino, but Kelly ducked and then she schoolgirled Phoenix for the win.

WINNER: Kelly in 2:00.

4 -- JOHN MORRISON & THE MIZ vs. CRYME TYME

The extent to which ECW wrestlers are appearing on Raw is just odd right now. Lawler said: "Shad told me he started out as an unwanted child, and now he's wanted in ten states." We got a lot of those one-liners last week from Lawler, and this is the first of the show this week. Cole pushed how the Cryme Tyme and Miz & Morrison shows are the most viewed on WWE.com and how seriously the two teams take them. Lawler said: "Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase followed in their fathers' footsteps. Cryme Tyme are following in their fathers' fingerprints." When Shad cleared the ring of both heels and tossed J.T.G. onto them, they cut to a break. Cole said the "Bling Bling Brothers are on a roll" and asked if they could keep it up after the break.

Morrison had Shad tied up on the mat after the break. Cole and Lawler talked more about this being the 800th episode. Shad made a big comeback 8:00. Shad and J.T.G. doubled on Miz, but Morrison yanked Miz out of the ring and then Morrison rolled up Shad for a surprise near fall. Miz distracted the ref as Morrison hit Shad with a kick. Miz then scored the pin. Lawler said ECW just got one up on Raw with that outcome.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 11:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2

5 -- CHRIS JERICHO & LANCE CADE & JBL vs. BATISTA & SHAWN MICHAELS

Jericho's manipulating of Adamle into making this three-on-two was clever and well-done. Giving away this match would normally be seen as too much, especially given the intensity of the Jericho-Michaels feud and how this could water down the novelty of those two being in the same match, but after last week's rating for Raw, it's understandable. What's odd is the lack of any promo from Michaels or Batista to hype this match and communicate to fans what they believed was at stake for them in this one. Michaels opened against Cade. When Michaels moved toward Jericho, Jericho jumped to the floor. JBL then surprised Michaels with a clothesline. Jericho then charged after Michaels once he was down and took control.

JBL tagged in and continued to beat on Michaels. A minute later Cade tagged in against Michaels. JBL took a cheap shot at Batista. Batista tried to enter the ring, which gave Jericho a chance to give Michaels a cheap shot at 5:00. JBL went for a fallaway slam, but Michaels countered and took JBL down. Both men ended up on their backs on the mat. Batista wanted in for the first time all match. JBL tagged in Jericho first, but then Michaels hot-tagged Batista. Baitsta exploded with an attack on Jericho. Batista powerslammed Jericho, then tagged in Michaels who hit a top rope elbow. Michaels showed great fire as only he can. Then he signaled for Sweet Chin Music. Jericho ducked and went for a Walls of Jericho. Michaels escaped. Jericho went for a Code Breaker. Michaels blocked it and went for a pin. JBL broke it up. Batista made the save. JBL backdropped Batista over the top ropeBatista got up and speared JBL at ringside. Jericho gave Michaels a running bulldog from behind. He went for a Lionsault, but Michaels moved. Jericho tagged in Cade. Michaels immediately hit Cade with a flying forearm. Then he nipped up and set up a superkick toward Jericho. Jericho slipped out of the ring and Cade hit Michaels quickly and suddenly with a sitout powerbomb for the pin.

WINNER: Cade & Jericho & JBL in 9:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Good tag match. They hit all the big spots well. The Cade pin on Michaels is a nice boost for him no matter what the circumstances.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Solid episode. Not earth-shattering, but the inclusion of Shane, the fun dynamic between Shane and Adamle, a noteworthy finish to the main event tag, a good dose of Santino, and a good opening segment all made for a watchable, inoffensive show. Credit WWE for not hotshotting too much after the ratings recently, but going ahead in trying to continue to push some younger stars without blinking (not that there's any viable alternative approach).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 25 2008, 04:16 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 9-23-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete results). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002875.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1. Finlay (w/Hornswoggle) vs. Bam Neely in 3:50. A brawling style match. Finlay hit a swinging neckbreaker at 3:00. He wet up to the second rope for some reason, but Neely caught him and locked him in the Boston Crab. Horny entered the ring and distracted Neely. Meanwhile, Finlay picked up the shillelagh used it as a weapon behind the ref's back and got the pin...

Powell's POV: They really need to come up with a new finish for Finlay matches.

2. Maryse defeated Michelle McCool in a non-title match in 3:30. Striker said young women everywhere can look up to McCool because she knows grappling moves. No, really. He forgot to tell us that she knows Undertaker and everything. She's like a female Triple H or something. Late in the match, Maryse caught Michelle up top and then played to the crowd before DDT'ing her for the win...

Powell's POV: Don't get me wrong, I dig Michelle and I'm impressed by how quickly she's improved, but Striker was laying it on really thick. By the way, the announcers did a nice job of pointing out that Maryse was wasting too much time before she hit her finisher. I'm sure she heard about that backstage.

3. Mike Knox squashed Chase Stevens in 1:40. After Knox plowed through Stevens and headed toward the back, Jack Swagger's music played and he past Knox on the stage with a smile on his face. Swagger attacked Stevens. Tommy Dreamer ran out for the save. Knox came back to the ring and distracted Dreamer. Swagger hit his finisher on Dreamer and then smiled for the camera...

Powell's POV: Typical squash match to get Knox back on track after some of this recent losses. The live crowd responded to Knox's power moves and counted along with the three count.

4. The Miz fought John Morrison to a double in-ring countout in 11:30. Striker wondered aloud whether Miz or Morrison would become the Art Garfunkel of their team. After some back and forth action, Morrison dove at Miz near the ropes and they tumbled to ringside. Highlights aired from during the break of Morrison taking a big tumble to ringside.

Back live, the back and forth battle continued as the program reminder told viewers about the time change next week. Striker said the fans wouldn't let either wrestler forget if they lost to their tag team partner. The tension between the two teammates grew more intense as the match went on and they exchanged more punches and kicks down the stretch.

At 10:45, both men were on the top rope in one of the corners. Miz hooked Morrison's head with his legs and jumped. The both tumbled awkwardly to the mat and neither wrestler made it to his feet before the referee's 10 count.

After the match, Ricky Ortiz ran out and splashed Miz. Morrison tried to attack him, but Ortiz fought off with a shoulder block and hit that big dorky splash of his. Ricky waved the silly rally towel at ringside and gave one of his stupid rags to a blond woman at ringside...

Powell's POV: It had to be obvious to everyone when the top of the hour rolled around that they weren't going to see a legitimate match between Ortiz and the winner of Miz vs. Morrison. The team members worked a good match and traded offense. The live crowd didn't really choose sides, nor did the wrestlers seem to be interested in leading them one way or the other.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 27 2008, 11:14 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 9-25-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1002895.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Matt Morgan and Abyss defeated The Rock 'N Rave Infection (with Christy Hemme) in 2:54. Morgan tagged in and entered the ring with an impressive high crossbody on Rock. He then hit a dropkick. Abyss hit the Blackhole slam on Rock and the Shock Treatment on Rave. Morgan tagged in and hit the Hellevator for the win...

Team 3D came out to the stage. Brother Devon took the stick tonight and told Abyss and Morgan that their loss to them at No Surrender was a fluke. Devon ran down each company by name and how many times they were tag team champions in each of those companies. Ray chimed in with "And that is great, that is great." He is hilarious. Ray took the mic and plugged their match at Bound for Glory, which is now a Monster's Ball match...

Twill's Two Cents: I am starting to like Morgan and Abyss as a team and Morgan looked much better tonight in the ring. Kudos to TNA for making a non-title tag team match interesting and important.

2. Awesome Kong (with Raisha Saeed) defeated Mercedes Steele in 1:46. Saeed was announced but did not come out with Kong. Steele was explained as someone looking for a contract. Steele kept screaming like a little *****. Saeed came down the aisle with chairs. Kong dominated before hitting the Awesome Bomb for the win...

After the match, Saeed came in with the chairs and set one up for an Awesome Bomb. All of a sudden, Raisha Saeed hit Kong with two chairshots. She then took off her mask and it was Roxxi the entire time. The real Raisha Saeed came out the stage tied up with rope. Referees separated Roxxi from Kong...

Twill's Two Cents: Great segment. I love Kong and I love Roxxi's push as someone who may be hardcore enough to beat her. Now, if we could just get rid of Taylor Wilde, we would be in great shape.

3. Beer Money and Jacqueline defeated LAX and Hector Guerrero in 9:41. Hector hit the three amigos suplexes on Storm. Jacqueline tagged and forced Hector to chase her up the ramp as the show went to commercial...

Everyone was back coming back from commercial. With the referee distracted, Roode smacked Hernandez in the head with Storm's football helmet and scored the pinfall...

Twill's Two Cents: At least Hector still has his announcing gig.

4. Sheik Abdul Bashir defeated Samoa Joe by disqualification in a non-title match in 4:25. Bashir grounded Joe early and worked on his leg. He scored a few nearfalls while he had an ankle lock applied. Bashir locked in a single leg Boston Crab and Joe was able to get to the ropes. Sheik continued on the offensive before Joe hit a modified Rock Bottom from the corner. He then hit the Muscle Buster for the win...

After the match, Joe called out Sting. He then applied the rear naked choke on Bashir and the referee reversed his decision...

Twill's Two Cents: I enjoyed the match. Bashir was given some solid offense and I love watching Joe work, if even for a few minutes.

5. Booker T (with Sharmell) defeated AJ Styles in 10:43. The match started at a very quick pace before the show went to commercial. Christian Cage came out and watched from the ramp...

Booker had the advantage on Styles coming back from commercial. During the break, Styles landed a beautiful dropkick on Booker. Booker nearly scored the submission victory but Styles came back. He hit the springboard flying forearm for the two count. He followed that up with the Pele kick for another nearfall.

Earl Hebner took the obligatory ref bump at the ten minute mark. Sharmell came in to hit Styles with the briefcase but Christian stopped her and took the briefcase away. Styles stood up and thought Christian was going to hit him. Booker knocked Christian into Styles, grabbed the briefcase and hit Styles with it to score the win. After the match, Christian and AJ argued...

Twill's Two Cents: Well, that went downhill fast. Watch the tape AJ. Everything is cool. This was a disappointing finish to a good match on a good show. This is the typical bullshit they need to move away from.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 27 2008, 11:24 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-26-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1002910.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Triple H and Jeff Hardy defeated The Brian Kendrick (with Ezekiel Jackson) and MVP in 13:55. When Hardy made his entrance, Jim Ross said, "Jeff Hardy loves life." Hardy and Triple H traded tags and took turns working on MVP in the opening minutes of the match. Kendrick tagged in and the pace quickened considerably. Triple H closelined MVP over the top rope. He and Hardy both backdropped Kendrick over the top and onto MVP...

The heels were working over Triple H coming back from the break. Hardy tagged in and was able to hit a series of moves on Kendrick. He attempted a Swanton but Jackson pulled his foot out from under him. Hardy tumbled to the mat and Kendrick scored a two count.

Kendrick and MVP exchanged submission holds on Hardy as Triple H looked on. Hardy reversed the fortunes of his team by hitting a Whisper in the Wind. H and MVP received tags at the same time. H cleaned house and tried the Pedigree, but was kicked by Kendrick. Hardy took Kendrick out, MVP missed the Driveby, and Triple H hit the Pedigree on him for the win...

After the match, Hardy grabbed the WWE Title and handed it to Triple H. They raised their hands in victory and shook hands. They both posed for the fans...

Twill's Two Cents: Fantastic television tag team match. All four men worked hard and the tag team booking here was very good.

2. Brie Bella and Maria defeated Victoria and Natalya in 5:07.Maria and Victoria began the match but Natalya and Brie did the brunt of the work. Brie hit some impressive moves and Natalya looked impressive utilizing her power. Brie was thrown to the floor. As she crawled under the ring, her twin sister came out (a little early). She tagged Maria who hit a high crossbody for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: That almost looked like a mistake. I wish the announcers would not have played dumb. The action in the match was pretty good.

3. Vladimir Kozlov vs. The Great Khali (with Ranjin Singh) ended in a no contest in 1:58. Khali knocked Kozlov from the ring. Kozlov pulled Khali from the ring and laid him out. Triple H's music hit and he came out to face Kozlov.

Once Triple H entered the ring, Kozlov retreated to the outside. Khali and Kozlov entered the ring at the same time and Triple H went after both of them. After some moderate success, Khali hit the overhand chop and Kozlov kicked Triple H. Jeff Hardy came out and was promptly laid out. H grabbed the sledgehammer and hit Khali with it. Kozlov backed up the ramp as H challenged him to reenter the ring. Hardy stood behind Triple H. H gave Kozlov a crotch chop...

Twill's Two Cents: They are obviously setting up a tag team match but a win over Khali for Kozlov would have done wonders for him.

4. Chavo Guerrero defeated Jimmy Wang Yang in 4:58. Chavo hit the two of the three amigos and Yang applied a small package for a two count. Chavo won the match with a rolling kick...

The lights went off and on very quickly. Chavo looked scared...

Twill's Two Cents: Fun and forgettable match. Chavo worrying about The Undertaker was the focus.

5. Carlito and Primo Colon defeated Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins to become the WWE Tag Team Champions. Primo hit a deep armdrag and a flying head scissor very early in the match. Carlito and Primo played the face role here. Carlito was worked on by the heel team. Hawkins hit Carlito with several hard kicks to the back followed by a flipping neckbreaker. They fought to the floor...

Primo tagged in and impressed everyone in the building with this high flying offense. Carlito tagged himself in blindly and hit the Backstabber for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: My phone died so I did not have a time on the match. Primo is fun to watch in the ring and Carlito looks rejuvenated.

Big Show, Vickie Guerrero, and Chavo Guerrero came out to the ring. They aired footage of pretty much the entire storyline between these individuals. After the footage, Vickie mocked Taker because he was nowhere to be found. Chavo told Vickie what they were doing was not a good idea.

Twill's Two Cents: I guess Chavo is the only one who has paid attention to Taker over the years.

Show said Taker has lost his nerve and would not save the day tonight. The lights went off and Taker's gong sounded. The lights went back on and Chavo was gone. He then appeared on the Titantron backstage with Undertaker's hand around his throat. Big Show ran backstage as if the buffet table was closing down for the night.

Tazz thought it would be a good idea to leave the broadcast booth and interview Vickie. Taker's gong was heard again and Taker ended up in the ring with Vickie. He put his hand around her neck. He gave her a tombstone piledriver and did his pose amidst the blue lights...

Twill's Two Cents: The Undertaker is the only guy who can still pull off this crap.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 30 2008, 11:43 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-29-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27060.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results plus the conclusion of the show.

1 -- BATISTA vs. IC champion SANTINO MARELLA (w/Women's champ Beth Phoenix)

Batista quickly smashed Santino with a forearm smash before warming up for the Batista bomb. Batista nailed the finisher with an eye on Beth, then Batista made the cover for the quick win. Afterward, Beth hopped onto the apron to voice her displeasure with Batista's work in the ring. Suddenly, JBL snuck into the ring from behind and knocked a few brain cells with the Clothesline from Hell on Batista. JBL stared down at Batista's fallen body, then he slowly walked out of the ring. JBL looks like he's lost a little weight and appears to be in better shape than I last remember.

WINNER: Batista in 1:00. Quick, effective opening match. Santino is expected to talk and get his rear end handed to him, so that was fine. JBL with a nice set-up for No Mercy with Batista seeking revenge. (n/a)

2 -- JTG (w/Shad Gaspar) vs. THE MIZ (w/John Morrison)

Miz was his usual annoying self early on with some mockery of JTG in between working him over on the mat. Morrison then tried to provide a distraction at 3:00, but Shad knocked him off the apron. Meanwhile, Miz caught JTG in the ring with the Reality Check high knee and neckbreaker combo for the pin and the win with Shad too late re-entering the ring to make the save. Miz and Morrison had the final word over Cryme Tyme tonight.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 3:00. Fine little tag team rivalry brewing on the undercard. Too bad they're on separate brands to continue muddying the brand split. But, at least there's focus on the tag division. Gotta take it however it comes. (1/2*)

3 -- JAMIE NOBLE & MICKIE JAMES vs. PAUL BURCHILL & KATIE LEA

Noble started things off to set up a tag to Mickie, who was quickly tripped up by Burchill behind the ref's back. Katie then worked over Mickie while Regal and Layla watched with interest from the stage. Noble eventually took a tag and slammed Burchill with a rolling side suplex before going up top for a missile dropkick. Noble made a cover, but Katie broke up the pin. Mickie then nailed Katie with a top rope splash before flinging her over the top rope to the floor. Burchill tried to make a fiery comeback, but Noble snapped off a Northern Lights suplex into the Noble armbar. Burchill quickly tapped out, giving Mickie and Noble the win. Regal simply stood up and fixed his gaze on the ring where Noble and Mickie celebrated.

WINNERS: Mickie & Noble in 4:00. Good, high-energy match. I like the development of this storyline after Layla dumped Noble for Regal. We'll see where it leads. (*)

4 -- C.M. PUNK & REY MYSTERIO & EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON vs. KANE & MANU & World tag team champions CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.

The pace quickly picked up when Rey and Bourne knocked Manu to the floor and Bourne went flying over the top rope with a splash onto Manu. Punk and Kofi then hit simultaneous dives onto Cody and Teddy on the floor. On the other side of the floor, Rey followed with a Sentaun splash onto Kane. Crowd fired up. Babyfaces get their shine. Cut to a break.

Back from break, the heels were taking turns working over Bourne in their corner. Punk then took a tag at 6:00 and flew off the top rope with a springboard clothesline onto Manu. His advantage was short-lived, though, as Manu took out Punk's legs from behind to set up another round of the heels working over the opposition.

At the top of the second hour, the heels continued to work over Punk's left leg. Fans tried to rally with a C-M-Punk chant as the babyfaces sought a tag. Punk finally escaped with an enziguiri on Kane, but Kane kicked Rey off the apron to prevent a hot tag. And more isolation of Punk in the heel corner. As usual, Cody lost the advantage and Kofi took the big hot tag to work over Cody and knock opponents off the apron. Kofi did a big march across the ropes before nailing the boom-boom leg drop on Cody for a two count.

The action broke down momentarily, then Kane accepted a tag. He didn't see Rey Mysterio, though, and Rey dropkicked Kane from behind. Kofi then wanted a big splash in the corner, but Kane caught Kofi in mid-air with a chokeslam grip. Crowd went from a big cheer to a big oooh as Kane nailed the chokeslam on Kofi in center ring. Kane made the cover for the win. Post-match: Rey and Kane locked eyes to build tension for No Mercy.

WINNERS: Team Kane in 13:00. Good match. Hit a lull for a few minutes, but they used everyone pretty well during the match. Kane as the dominating, yet intelligent monster is exactly how he should be presented. (**)

5 -- KELLY KELLY & CANDICE MICHELLE vs. Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & JILLIAN HALL

Candice and Beth started things off to create tension for their Women's Title match at No Mercy. Michelle quickly kicked Beth in the leg before tagging out to Kelly. Candice came back in, then Jillian took advantage and worked her over for a few minutes. Crowd became restless, then Kelly and Beth took tags. Kelly snapped off a flying head scissors, but Beth came back with a running clothesline. Candice broke up the pin attempt, then Jillian yanked Candice to the floor. Kelly tried to roll up Beth from behind, but Beth wasn't going to let it happen two weeks in a row, so she rolled through into a huge front slam for the decisive pin and the win. Afterward, Candice helped Kelly recover while staring down Beth to set up Sunday.

WINNERS: Beth & Jillian in 4:00. Went long and lost the crowd about half-way through. Fine result to set up Sunday, which fit the theme of tonight's show. (1/2*)

6 -- GREAT CHARLI (w/Runjan Singh) vs. DEUCE

Charli wobbled into landing the big chop early on, but Deuce had enough and landed a running slam. Deuce wanted a big splash, but Charli got a boot up. Charli then spun to his feet and dropped the gimp walk to fire up with a flurry of offense. Charli came off the top with a big splash and made the cover for the win.

Post-match: The real Great Khali came out on stage with Singh. Charli did Khali's mannerisms in tribute to Khali, who Lawler said he hopes has a sense of humor. Khali stepped into the ring with a big smile on his face while Charli clapped it up. Singh handled the introductions, then Charli raised his arms in front of Khali, who smiled it up. Charli extended his hand for a shake, but Khali smashed him with a big chop to the head. Khali had another good laugh at that development. Is that Penick with the "Fire Coach Childress" sign?

WINNER: Well, it gives Haas something to do. Not necessarily going anywhere right now, but that was a fine filler segment to show that Khali has some personality. (n/a)

7 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO & LANCE CADE vs. SHAWN MICHAELS & WWE champion TRIPLE H

Jericho and Hunter squared off to preview the Night of Champions free TV deal on Smackdown this Friday night. Jericho quickly went for the Walls of Jericho, but Hunter easily flung him aside. Cade wanted a piece of Hunter, but Hunter blocked a suplex with a suplex of his own. Michaels and Jericho played cat and mouse for a second, then Michaels found himself back in the ring to accept a big boot from Cade. Jericho and Cade then worked over Michaels in their corner as Hunter tried to rally the crowd. Jericho wanted a Lionsault, but Michaels moved in time.

Cade took a tag, then Hunter took a hot tag. He worked over Cade before knocking Jericho off the apron to the floor. Cade then walked into a spinebuster and Hunter called for the end. Hunter measured Cade for the Pedigree, but Jericho smashed Hunter with the codebreaker. Cade then delivered a clothesline on Michaels, who was knocked out. The ref called for a DQ when Michaels and Cade continued the double-team assault.

WINNERS: DX via DQ in 5:00. Short main event to set up the post-match, which was fine so they didn't give away too much in the ring bell-to-bell before a PPV. (*)

Post-match: Jericho brought a ladder into the ring to give Michaels additional punishment, but the crowd roared as Hunter snuck back into the ring with a sledgehammer in hand. Jericho bailed, then Hunter gave Cade a quick jab to the gut. Michaels tuned up the band and delivered the superkick, then Hunter finished him off with the Pedigree as Jericho could only shake his head in disbelief. Hunter then set up the ladder in the corner and Michaels climbed to the top. Michaels gave Jericho a crotch chop from the top of the ladder, then he crashed down onto Cade with a big splash. Michaels flopped around the ring and winced in pain, then collected himself on the bottom rope to stare down Jericho, who stared back at him. Hunter helped Michaels up, then DX stared back at Jericho to close the show with the announcers plugging everything happening this week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 02 2008, 10:33 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 9-30-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27073.shtml). Report condensed here...

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. LENNY LANE

Are you kidding? We have a Lenny Lane sighting? Lane apparently channeling Jeff Jarrett in the facial hair department. Grisham earned points with Ross for referencing Oklahoma as the number one team in college football, and Swagger hopes to be tops in ECW eventually. Grisham complimented himself on the segue. Swagger quickly delivered a gutwrench powerbomb for the all-american victory. Afterward, Swagger wanted to deliver a post-match message, but Tommy Dreamer made the save for Lane. Swagger just smiled and left the ring.

WINNER: Swagger in 1:00. Swagger has the makings of a great heel character with the annoying smile and dominating size. Good addition to the roster. (n/a)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. MIKE KNOX

Back from break, we have Dreamer in action against Knox, whose beard has apparently doubled in length since I last saw it two weeks ago. That man needs a beard trimmer. Grisham said Knox's workout regiment out in the Arizona desert is unknown. It was working here with Knox dominating Dreamer before settling in a good ole fashioned reverse chinlock on the mat. Thank goodness for Matt Striker. How I have missed thee, as he went into a full explanation of why wrestlers utilize a chinlock. I hope he calls every Randy Orton match from here on. Dreamer eventually slipped out of the chinlock and made a brief comeback, but he found the ringpost when Knox moved out of the corner. Ref checked on Dreamer, then Knox nailed the Knox Out for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Knox in 4:00. Fairly decent match. Knox picks up the predictable victory over the veteran enhancement talent on ECW. (1/2*)

Post-match: Jack Swagger returned to the ring after the victory for Knox and he picked up Dreamer. Swagger decided to give Dreamer a gutwrench suplex to add insult to injury on Dreamer. Swagger then did a victory dance before smiling down at Dreamer's lifeless body. Swagger declared his awesomeness on the way to the back after inflicting damage.

3 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. ECW champion MATT HARDY & EVAN BOURNE & RICKY ORTIZ

Quick action to start things off here. Bourne took a hot tag and he wanted a move off the ropes, but Miz kneed him in the back with the ref's back turned to set up the heel attack on Bourne. Grisham accused them of cheating, but Striker said they were just being resourceful. Matt Striker: "You run out of toilet paper and you do a handstand in the shower." I am at a loss for words to describe Striker's greatness. Hardy took a hot tag at 5:00 to a nice crowd reaction, then he cleaned house on the heels while Henry barked orders to Miz and Morrison. Hardy knocked M&M around, then landed a double clothesline that cleared them from the ring. Henry aggressively stepped into the ring to take on all three babyfaces, but then he slowly backed up to his corner to take a raincheck.

Back from break, Hardy was working over Morrison in the ring. Ortiz then accepted a tag to continue working over Morrison. Bourne worked over Morrison to continue the break-from-the-norm isolation of a heel by the babyfaces. However, Ortiz lost control at 8:00 and Henry took a tag to crunch Ortiz. Poor guy was knocked around for a few moments before the heels started to work over Ortiz in their corner. Ortiz then fought out of a mat hold on Morrison and powered into the electric chair, but he couldn't make a tag.

The heels went back to work, but Ortiz escaped and Bourne took a tag to start firing off his aerial assault much to the crowd's delight. The action then broke down with Hardy and Ortiz ending up on the floor. Bourne and Henry were all alone in the ring, then Henry turned an aerial move into World's Strongest Slam for the decisive pin and the win. Afterward, Henry and Hardy had a stare down while Grisham asked whether Hardy even stands a chance on Sunday.

WINNERS: Team Henry in 17:00. A bit slow at times, but enough athleticism to keep viewers interested for most of the match. Henry picking up the victory was the right way to go to set-up Hardy vs. Henry, so that was fine. Bourne had enough offense to maintain credibility despite the loss. Being in the TV main even helped out as well. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 04 2008, 10:25 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-2-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27082.shtml). Condensed here as always ;)

1 -- ANGELINA LOVE (w/Velvet Sky and Kute Kip) vs. ODB

Mike Tenay quickly plugged Kurt Angle's negative interview with the U.K. Sun last week. Don West referenced "those comments," as if we have a frame of reference for what anyone is talking about. Again, gearing the broadcast to an Internet crowd is going to keep the show at a 1.0-1.2 rating until the end of time. West said Jeff Jarrett was livid with the comments. Predictable finish with Kute running interference on the ref, then Velvet spewing liquid courage in ODB's eyes. Angelina then hit the Lights Out finisher for the win.

WINNER: Angelina in 4:00. The problem isn't the predictable interference customary for every TNA TV match, but the fact that ODB taking a foreign substance in the eyes should be made a huge deal worthy of a few weeks of selling an eye injury. Unfortunately, that won't happen, so it's a finish that means nothing that no one will remember. (1/2*)

2 -- CHRIS SABIN & ALEX SHELLEY vs. LAX (HOMICIDE & HERNANDEZ)

Hernandez showed off his strength early on in this match while Tenay and West plugged a giant Monster's Ball tag match at the PPV. Machineguns then took control at 2:00 when Sabin landed a dive onto Homicide on the floor. Back in the ring, Guns double-teamed Homicide with some rapid-fire combo moves.

The action broke down in typical TNA tag team fashion, then Homicide dropped Shelley with the Gringo Cutter out of the corner. Hernandez wanted a big dive to the floor, but Sabin caught him with a superkick. Sabin tried to follow with a cross-body splash, but Hernandez caught him in mid-air for a sit-down powerbomb. Hernandez made the subsequent pin for the win.

WINNERS: LAX in 5:00. Good showcase for Hernandez, who should be main eventing PPVs as a singles wrestler next year. (*1/2)

3 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. JIMMY RAVE (w/Hemme and Rock) vs. ERIC YOUNG -- X Division Title match

Bashir finished off Young with a spike DDT, then he stared at ref Shane to instruct him to make the three count. Shane made the three count, then Sheik demanded that Shane raise his arm in victory. They had a face-to-face stare down and Sheik feigned a punch, but he pulled back and laughed. Shane was ready to fight, but Sheik stepped out of the ring, satisfied with the win.

WINNER: Sheik in 2:00. Is a ref the #1 contender to the X Division Title? Wow. What's happened to this division? (1/2*)

4 -- A.J. STYLES & CHRISTIAN CAGE & JAY LETHAL vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) & BOOKER T (w/Sharmell and briefcase)

Right at the top of the second hour, we're starting with some wrestling instead of a commercial break. Nice adjustment. Oops, spoke too soon. A minute into the match, they cut to break.

Four minutes later, they returned from break with Tenay hyping Mick Foley as a renaissance man in pro wrestling. In the ring, the babyface trio was working over Booker. Lethal then found himself too far away from home and Team 3D got him from behind to set up the attack on Lethal. Booker scored a nearfall on a leg strike, then 3D started working over Lethal in the corner. Christian eventually took the hot tag and the action broke down. Ray landed a big body drop on Christian, then Lethal, then Styles, who apparently didn't pay attention the first two times. Styles and Lethal then quickly returned the favor and Christian hit a top rope splash, but Ray kicked out.

Afterward, Booker smashed Lethal with the briefcase while Styles took out Devon on the floor. Booker then tagged himself into the match and Christian rolled him up, but the ref was distracted by Ray. Styles tried to nail Ray with a springboard smash, but Ray moved and Styles butted heads with Christian. Booker then rolled up the KO'ed Christian for the win. Afterward, Styles helped Christian to his feet with a consoling hug, but Christian didn't really want any part of that. No blows.

WINNERS: Team Booker in 11:00. Fine match. About what you would expect with another miscommunication between Styles and Christian to continue building tension in the latest chapter of their on-again, off-again relationship. (*3/4)

5 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY (w/Kute Kip) vs. ODB & RHAKA KHAN

ODB took a pounding early on, then Rhaka tagged in and cleaned house. She did her vampire-like rolling-of-the-tongue for the hard camera, and Kip had enough. He stormed into the ring to confront Rhaka, but the ref sent Kip away to the corner. Angelina and Velvet then took advantage of the distraction to go back to work on ODB. Rhaka took another hot tag and smashed the heels with high kicks before delivering a sweeping leg drop on Velvet for the pin and the win.

Afterward, ODB was quite pleased with her selection of partner. Kip wanted to have a word about that, which allowed Velvet and Angelina to sneak in the back door and attack the winners. However, Rhino made the quick entry into the ring to clear Kip and send the Beautiful People packing. Looks like we have a six-person tag in the future.

WINNERS: Team ODB in 5:00. Well, Rhaka was pretty impressive here based on how she was positioned as the largest competitor in the match. There's something not quite right with her character, but that's part of the intrigue as well. Concerning Rhino, at least he has a role these days. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 06 2008, 01:12 pm
WWE No Mercy PPV Results: 10-5-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's Ongoing "virtual time" coverage) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_27115.shtml) or to avoid pop-ups and view ongoing in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8262 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2601327&postcount=8262) and posts thereafter or for complete in-ring results,  TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to latest entry) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2324424.html).

1 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)
WINNER: Hardy in 8:00 to retain the ECW Title. Nice opening match. Hardy gets the legit three count on Henry after a well-put-together match to showcase the top two stars on the ECW brand. Good to see from ECW. (**)

2 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. CANDICE MICHELLE -- Women's Title match
WINNER: Beth in 4:00 to retain the Women's Title. Fine. They kept it short and to the point with some decent action packed into four minutes. Tension between Beth and Santino should make for good TV going forward. (*)

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE
WINNER: Rey in 11:00 via DQ. Good match. They built a good story here to continue the feud without a decision. Fine finish after two relatively clean finishes to start the show.

4 -- JBL vs. BATISTA -- #1 Contender match to Raw's World Hvt. Title
WINNER: Batista in 5:00. Well, that was short for a #1 contender match. Two ways of looking at that. Either they wanted Batista to look as dominating as possible or JBL just isn't in the type of physical shape necessary to take on a long match assignment. (*)

5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BIG SHOW
WINNER: Big Show via KO in 11:00. Really nice match featuring two big men where they could have gone one of two ways of greatness or dullness. WWE agents and the wrestlers have laid out some good matches tonight taking advantage of the strengths of the individuals involved in the ring. Show returning to that WrestleMania 24 level of being a dominating big man is exactly where he should be. Taker losing a match on PPV doesn't happen often, so this should be treated as a big deal to be effective in continuing to rebuild Show as a major deal on Smackdown. (**1/2)

6 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. JEFF HARDY -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Hunter in 17:00 to retain the WWE Title. Heck of a title match. Another well-done match with the wrestlers executing a great game plan in the ring that fit the storyline of Hardy being just one second away from everything in life. Great nearfalls and counters with Hunter giving Hardy plenty while remaining one step ahead. (***3/4)

7 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- World Title match -- ladder match
WINNER: Jericho in 22:00 to retain the World Hvt. Title. Excellent, innovative ladder match. Some repeat spots, but the story we've followed on Raw for five months carried the match to another good-to-great match in the series. Cade's interference knocks it down a notch, but the match was still relatively clean and focused on the two men in the ring rather than a bunch of outside variables to distract from the action. (****)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 08 2008, 02:23 pm
WWE RAW Results: 10-6-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27128.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GLAMARELLA (IC champion SANTINO MARELLA & Women's champion BETH PHOENIX) vs. MICKIE NOBLE (MICKIE JAMES & JAMIE NOBLE)

Very quick match with Santino sneaking out a three count on Noble after Beth became involved with the ref's back turned. Afterward, Santino did his trumpet-blowing celebration. He then bailed into the front row when Noble chased after him. Regal then tried to attack Noble, but Noble flipped him over the guardrail to the front row. Regal suddenly snapped and tried to tackle Noble, but the ref held Regal back. Mickie then grabbed Noble by the hand and led him away from ringside.

WINNERS: Glamarella in 2:00. Quick match with a finish out of nowhere to set up a worked shoot approach to the next advancement in Regal vs. Noble. Either that, or something went haywire. Interesting, but we need more. (1/2*)

2 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. (w/Cody Rhodes and Manu)

Interesting match-up here. Kofi wanted the boom-boom leg drop at 2:00, but Cody hopped onto the apron to distract Kofi. Punk came into play and knocked Cody off the apron, but Ted caught Kofi from behind with the Million Dollar Dream into a Russian legsweep for the decisive pin and the win. Afterward, Priceless celebrated on stage while Punk checked on Kofi.

WINNER: Ted in 3:00. Man, another too-short match here. They obviously don't trust the attention span of the viewer up against football and baseball playoffs. (3/4*)

3 -- REY MYSTERIO & ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. KANE & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Hot start here, as Rey and Matt cleared the heels to the outside with some impressive tag team work. Again, less than two minutes before a break in the action, this time with a commercial rather than a pinfall. Feels like Impact tonight.

They returned from break with Kane working on Hardy with a chinlock on the mat. Henry and Kane then started their attack working on Hardy in the heel corner. Hardy then wanted a big splash, but Hardy predictably moved and rolled over to his corner to tag out to Rey. Rey landed a little offense, but Kane blasted him with a big punch to the head to cut off Rey's momentum. Henry then dragged Rey back to the heel corner to set up Kane for an attack on Rey.

They rolled over to the top of the second hour with Kane striking Rey between the eyes with a chop to cut him off again. Kane then went up top, but Rey ducked underneath a clothesline and whipped Kane into the corner. Rey then crawled over to Hardy for a hot tag. Hardy landed a swinging neckbreaker, then he kicked Henry off the apron with a dropkick to the knees. Back to Kane where Hardy landed a top rope bulldog before calling for the end. Henry stepped in, though, and ran distraction. The whole deal broke down before Henry caught Rey on the floor and launched Rey into the turnbuckle to crotch Hardy, who was standing on the top rope. Kane then took advantage with a chokeslam on Hardy for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kane & Henry in 11:00. Competitive match with a furious finish that made for good TV building anticipation for the eventual finish. Kane continues to be the dominant, smart, aggressive heel that works much better than the clunky, lovable losing Kane. (*1/2)

4 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. LANCE CADE -- Anything Goes, No DQ

They traded blows after the opening bell, then Cade pounded Michaels to the outside. He whipped out a table on the floor, then set it up next to the dude sporting the awesome Astros 1980's rainbow jersey on the front row. Cade measured Michaels, then he quickly put Michaels through the table with a modified Rock Bottom slam. Michaels sold it as if every muscle in his body was frozen, then Cade rolled him into the ring and grabbed a steel chair. Cade took too long with the chair, then Michaels tackled him and landed right hand blows. Michaels managed to grab the chair in the scrum, then Cade accepted a chair shot to the head with time to get his hand up to block. Still a pretty clean blow. Michaels then pounded the crap out of Cade with multiple chair shots to every inch of Cade's body. Michaels, on the verge of insanity, spun around as if he were chasing his tail, then he covered Cade for the pin and the win.

Michaels had his hand raised, then he spun into the corner and stared down at Cade as he writhed on the mat. Michaels remained completely motionless with his shoulders shrugged up near his neck while snorting down at the mat. Announcers speculated Michaels was envisioning Cade as Jericho. Michaels then suddenly grabbed the steel chair and pounded away on Cade some more. Michaels sneered and convulsed while the crowd chanted his name. Michaels's music hit, then he stepped out of the ring satisfied with the damage done. Michaels then started walking down the entrance ramp with an unchanged expression of determination.

WINNER: Michaels in 3:00. Well, the match was short, but at least it made a very, very clear point about Michaels's state of mind and level of aggression right now. Great theater at the expense of Cade and the chair. (*)

5 -- KELLY KELLY vs. JILLIAN HALL

There was a lot of CROSS TALK between Cryme Tyme and Miz & Morrison with Lawler and Cole silenced into not being able to call the action between Kelly and Jillian. Just back and forth chatter while Jillian worked over Kelly in the ring. Kelly then slipped out of a side slam and landed a victory roll for the pin and the win. Cryme Tyme gave props to Kelly, then gave Miz and Morrison a final parting word before celebrating with Kelly in the ring.

WINNER: Kelly in 4:00. That was rough. There was some entertaining moments listening to the four adolescents make fools of themselves on purpose, but the whole segment was pretty much a train wreck. (n/a)

6 -- JBL vs. BATISTA -- #1 Contender match

Bell sounded and the announcers asked Orton why he was out there. Orton said he has no idea, but maybe Jericho thought they were doing a lousy job. Orton said he doesn't care who wins, just that he gets his title shot when he's healthy. Batista dominated this thing early on, even slappin on a figure four at 2:00. Jericho checked on JBL, who tried to get the ropes. He got a finger tip on the ropes and Jericho demanded a rope break. The argument gave JBL an opening to take advantage and score a few nearfalls, opening up the question of why the heel ref doesn't just call a three count and ring the bell. Lame. Batista came back with a suplex and had a pin, but Jericho refused to count. The action spilled to the floor, then Jericho pretended to admonish JBL allowing Regal to smash Batista into the ring apron. Batista countered a suplex with a side belly-to-back suplex, then Jericho encouraged JBL to get up. Lawler interjected the logic that Jericho must think he has a better chance of beating JBL than Batista. "I dunno," Lawler concluded. The action broke down with Regal getting involved, then Batista had enough and gave both Jericho and JBL a double spear. Suddenly, Mike Adamle showed up on the stage and sent down referee Mike Kiota to the ring. Kiota counted a nearfall, then Batista made his full attack with a spinebuster and Batistabomb on JBL for the pin and the win as Jericho could only watch from ringside.

WINNER: Batista in 8:00. Hectic match based around the loose-with-the-logic heel special referee stipulation. Just never ever a fan of that concept. Batista made the most of it with an energetic victory to get the crowd excited. (*)

Post-match: Adamle took the mic and said it's rather ironic that Jericho booked himself as special ref tonight because that's one of the ideas pitched by Shane and Steph to change things up around Raw. He announced Jericho vs. Batista at Cyber Sunday for the World Title. And the stip is that the fans get to pick the special referee. Is it... Randy Orton, Shawn Michaels, or Steve Austin? Huge pop for Austin, followed by an "Austin, Austin" chant. Lawler's voice did a typical high-octave jump in excitement for Austin. Adamle told the WWE Universe it's in their hands. Batista then posed in the ring and stared down at Jericho to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 08 2008, 02:28 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 10-7-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27143.shtml)

1 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) & TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER & MIKE KNOX

Finlay started things off with a flurry of offense on Knox, then the action broke down with Dreamer ending up on the floor via a big boot from Knox. Let's grab a break.

They returned from a pretty lengthy opening break with Knox working over Dreamer in the heel corner. Let's get Swagger in there for some work, and the All-American American took his liberties with Dreamer's neck with a neck vice on the mat. Finlay then took the hot tag at 7:00 and excited the crowd by taking it to Knox with a dropkick from the second turnbuckle. He nailed a rolling crucifix slam, but Swagger broke up the pin. Dreamer then knocked Swagger to the floor allowing Hornswoggle to come flying off the top with the tadpole splash on Knox. Ref cleared Horny, then Finlay dropped Knox with a shillelagh for the pin and the win. Grisham dropped a pun that Swagger lost a little bit of his swagger after the defeat, which drew a groan from Striker. Dreamer then did an Irish jig with Horny afterward to celebrate not having to take another pinfall/beating on TV.

WINNERS: Finlay & Hornswoggle in 9:00. Nice opener. Crowd was surprisingly hot for a house show match, but F&H are always popular with the audience. (*)

2 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Striker took the first few minutes to point out that WWE does not have an injury list, unlike NFL or MLB. He said we're all day-to-day and questionable, so you just go out and wrestle. Grisham suggested WWE's injury report would list Noble's injuries as simply "body" after this match. I love Tuesday nights. Henry toyed with Noble with forearm blows that knocked Noble around the ring. Noble tried to come back with a top rope splash, but Henry easily caught him in mid-air and turned it into the World's Strongest Slam for the decisive pin and the win.

Afterward, Henry wasn't satisfied with his snack and he delivered another World's Strongest Slam. Henry wanted a third, but Matt Hardy's music hit and Hardy stormed the ring in street clothes. Hardy kicked Henry into the corner, then gave Atlas the Twist of Fate. That served as a distraction, though, allowing Henry to catch Hardy with the World's Strongest Slam. Henry wasn't done, as he finished off Hardy's night with a big splash in center ring.

WINNER: Henry in 4:00. Good comeback for Henry to set up the next chapter in the feud against Hardy and his shiny shirt. (APB for Monty Brown.) This probably won't end until Henry gets the title back or he ends up on another brand. That's just fine, as Henry is entertaining in my book. (1/2*)

3 -- C.M. PUNK & EVAN BOURNE & RICKY ORTIZ & KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & World tag team champions TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES (w/Manu)

After a few moments in the ring, the babyfaces took control and got their shine as the heels recovered on the floor leading to yet another break.

Shockingly, they returned with the heels in control. Cody was working over Bourne in center ring after we saw what happened during the break when Manu intervened to give the heels the advantage. Striker repeated the point that these eight men are the future of the sport. I wonder if Sting is cringing right now. Heels continued to work over Bourne, as Striker interjected that Cody has been Cialis-like with his three-day effectiveness since Sunday. Wow. Crowd chanted loudly for Punk, but Bourne couldn't get that hot tag. Finally, Bourne hopped out of an ankle lock from Morrison and made the tag to Punk at 10:00.

Punk took on everyone, then the action broke down. Even Ricky got himself some on Cody before hitting a plancha onto the floor. Kofi then wanted to get high, as Grisham put it, with a frog splash to the outside on everyone. Striker could only chuckle. Punk followed in the ring with a bulldog on Morrison, but Manu distracted Punk. DiBiase then slingshot Punk across the top rope, setting up Morrison for the corkscrew neckbreaker finisher on Punk for the pin and the win. The show closed at the top of the hour with all five heels celebrating on the outside.

WINNERS: Team Morrison in 12:00. Fine, predictable match. Won't be remembered next week. Won't be remembered in an hour, but it provided some decent action to cap off a Tuesday night and get some young stars in a TV main event. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 10 2008, 10:35 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 10-9-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27157.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RHINO vs. CUTE KIP JAMES (w/Angelina Love and Velvet Sky) -- No DQ match

Kip stalled on the outside, so Rhino took the fight to him to start things off. Rhino wanted to use a table early on, but Kip cut him off and went on the offensive. Beautiful Peeps became involved by choking Rhino on the bottom rope while Kip had the ref distracted. Announcers were so into the action that they just went on plugging the PPV instead of being outraged by the blatant interference creating an unfair playing field for Rhino. Kip then accepted the brown paper bag, but Rhino fought off Kip and started his comeback on Kip. Rhino with an inside-out clothesline, then he went to the floor and retrieved a table. Rhino landed a belly-to-belly suplex in center ring, then he wanted the Gore through the table, but Kip moved and Rhino stopped short. Angelina then hooked Rhino's legs and Velvet sprayed stuff in his eyes for a temporary blinding. Kip then speared Rhino through the table for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Velvet and Angelina tried to inflict more damage on Rhino, but ODB and Rhaka Khan made the save wielding chairs. Ladies bailed, leaving Kip to smile and duck out of the ring to fight another day.

WINNER: Kip in 5:00. Fine. Not memorable, but it advanced the storyline with the Beautiful Peeps in the knockouts main event picture. Just not the same intrigue as when Gail Kim is involved, but it's fine. (1/2*)

2 -- PETEY WILLIAMS vs. SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) vs. JAY LETHAL vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- #1 contender match to the X Division Title

Winner gets Bashir for the belt at the PPV. Glad to see such great build-up to an X Division Title match. Dutt wanted a kiss from Val early on, ya know, since they're still in the honeymoon phase, so Lethal dropkicked him in the face. Back in the ring, Dutt and Lethal battled until Petey gave Lethal the codebreaker. Lots of posing for the hard camera here. West jumped on that and said you can't delay in a four-way match with so much going on. Dutt and Petey decided to work together, but Dutt turned on Petey. Unfortunately, Petey had it scouted and he tossed Dutt to the outside. Lethal then clotheslined Petey and gave him an enziguiri for a nearfall at 3:00. It's worth noting that Dutt is awesome. Back to the action where Petey teased the Destroyer on several folks, but rapid-fire action ensued with men flying everywhere. Creed finally secured Dutt with a backslide for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Creed in 5:00. Really could have stretched that out to ten minutes, as they packed in a ton of moves into a little amount of time. Good action, though. (*1/2)

3 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jackie) vs. MATT MORGAN & ABYSS -- non-title match

West was great with a dry response that he's so excited to have Ray and Devon on commentary. Tenay asked Ray about Mongo being in the Monster's Ball match. He said he doesn't quite understand why Mongo is needed when there really is no order to be restored in the MB match. To the action where Roode and Storm cut the legs out from under Morgan to begin working on Morgan. Abyss then took a tag, but they did the ole spot where the ref didn't see the tag. They ran through the motions on that one, so it didn't build much heat for the eventual hot tag to Abyss at 4:00. Abyss did the Umaga running rear end splash on the opponents, before giving Storm the Torture Rack slam for a nearfall. Action broke down, then Morgan came flying off the top rope with a splash before landing a big boot on Roode. Abyss then grappled Storm and gave him the Black Hole Slam for the win. Ray went off to talk trash, then Devon vowed to pick up tag title reign no. 21 at the PPV.

WINNERS: Morgan & Abyss in 5:00. Morgan was impressive with the offense at the end. Pretty good build-up for Monster's Ball on Sunday. (*)

4 -- Knockouts champion TAYLOR WILDE & ROXXI vs. AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED

Action broke down without any sense of rule or order, then Taylor and Roxxi knocked Kong to the outside. Saeed was left in the ring, but Wilde accidentally gave Roxxi an enziguiri kick when Saeed ducked. Kong then yanked Taylor to the outside. In the ring, Saeed slammed Roxxi and went up top, but Roxxi moved out of the way of a moonsault. Roxxi then kicked Saeed in the gut and wanted the Voodoo Drop, but Kong smashed her from behind. Kong then grappled Roxxi and smashed her with the implant buster for the easy pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kong & Saeed in 3:00. Fine to set up the three-way Knockouts Title match at the PPV, but not exactly reinforcing Roxxi as a viable threat here. (1/2*)

5 -- A.J. STYLES vs. BOOKER T -- Christian Cage as special referee

Back from break, Booker went to work on Styles. He kept working on Styles as Christian called things right down the middle. Styles then came back with the Pele soccer kick out of nowhere to begin his comeback. Styles with several clotheslines before landing a snap suplex for a two count. He then rolled into an armbar, but Booker got his feet on the ropes for a rope break. After a pause, they went to the finish and both men were secured in a small package pin. Christian called for the bell after the three count, but there was no clear winner. Booker thought he won, but Christian put his arm down and raised Styles's hand in victory.

After the decision, Booker tried to jump Christian, but he fought him and clotheslined Booker to the outside. Styles then tried to shake Christian's hand, but Christian clotheslined him hard to the mat. Cornette came storming out and screamed about nothing being resolved. "I wanted to settle everything tonight, but we didn't settle anything," he said. Welcome to TNA. Cornette then booked the inevitable: a three-way match at the PPV to settle it.

WINNER: Styles in 10:00. Just a TV match to fill some time and set up the PPV match. Definitely not memorable, but it was fine. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 11 2008, 02:14 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-10-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003068.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Brie Bella defeated Natalya (with Victoria) in 3:02. They exchanged backslides and both scored nearfalls. Brie tried to slide under the ring but Victoria tried to stop her. She was met by Hornswoggle, who chased her off. "Brie" came out from both sides of the ring at separate times and hit a crucifix for the pinfall...

Twill's Two Cents: Time to move to the next step of this storyline.

2. R-Truth defeated Shelton Benjamin in a non-title match in 5:01. Benjamin cut a pretaped promo saying he was the only safe investment there was. Shelton used his amateur wrestling skills to ground Truth but Truth came back with a corkscrew flying forearm for a long two count. The finish came when Shelton tried a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker and Truth rolled over Shelton for the pin...

Twill's Two Cents: I like this feud. This match could have been better but the feud is going to continue so I am okay with this finish. This could be a very good PPV match.

3. Jeff Hardy defeated MVP in 11:32. Hurricane Helms popped up in his bubble saying the P in MVP stood for "Please. Please win a match. I'm just sayin'." Helms is awesome. It will be great to see him back in the ring. Hardy grounded Porter and went to the top rope. Porter slid to the floor. JR said MVP was one win away from a financial bonus in his contract...

MVP scored multiple nearfalls with a variety of impressive offense. Hardy came back for a moment but MVP hit a modified face buster for another two count. Hardy came back and hit the Swanton Bomb for the unspectacular win...

Twill's Two Cents: I enjoyed the match but the fact that the history between these two was not acknowledged at all sucked. MVP deserves better than this.

4. Carlito and Primo Colon and Jesse and Festus defeated Zack Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Kenny Dykstra, and Ryan Braddock in 3:16. Popped up video Helms said the heel foursome strikes fear in the hearts of no one. He is just sayin'. JR likes Braddock. Too bad WWE doesn't like him more than they do Ricky Ortiz. All hell broke loose pretty quickly, allowing Festus to score the win. He gazed at Maria after the match...

5. The Great Khali (with Ranjin Singh) defeated three random jobbers in :09. Khali quickly scored the pin and they looked for someone to be a part of the Kiss Cam. They brought a larger woman into the ring to kiss Khali. Khali was reluctant but he did it. The crowd cheered and he smiled...

Twill's Two Cents: I love Khali like this. He can be funny and entertaining.

6. The Big Show defeated Triple H by disqualification in 9:50. Justin Roberts handled the in ring introductions. Show looked to use his overwhelming power early on and was successful in doing so. On the floor, Show ran himself into the ringpost. However, he was still able to get the best of the champ. Show hit a huge sidewalk slam as the show went to commercial...

Show had H locked in a neck vice coming back from commercial. Show scored a nearfall with that Melina like leg drop move that he does. Triple H went to the second rope and locked in a sleeper hold. Show broke out of the move by slamming H. H hit the facebuster and tried the Pedigree, but Show hit a delayed backdrop. Ouch.

Show set up the knockout punch and missed. H hit multiple rights and charged at Show, who countered with a chokeslam. Instead of going for the cover, he picked up Triple H to hit him with the right to the back of the head. The lights went out and when they came back on, Undertaker appeared. Taker and Show fought to the back as the lights went on and off.

Vladimir Kozlov came down to the ring to attack Triple H. Jeff Hardy came down to assist The Game. Hardy and H fought off Kozlov. Unexpectedly, Hardy hit a Twist of Fate on Triple H and eyeballed Kozlov. JR called Jeff "Matt Hardy" but we know what he meant. They stared each other down as the show went off the air...

Twill's Two Cents: I enjoyed the championship match and I definitely enjoyed the post match action. They have created five legitimate main event talents on Smackdown. I can tell you that my good friend and loyal Dot Net reader, Joshua Lorenzo is happy about this because he has been telling me all week that he hopes Jeff Hardy will remain in the WWE Championship picture.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 13 2008, 01:14 pm
TNA Bound For Glory PPV Results: 10-12-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_27195.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view condensed in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8278 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2604725&postcount=8278) and posts thereafter.

1 -- X DIVISION DEAL -- SUPER ERIC vs. SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) vs. JAY LETHAL vs. SHARK BOY vs. PETEY WILLIAMS vs. JIMMY RAVE (w/Christy Hemme) vs. CURRY MAN vs. CHRIS SABIN vs. ALEX SHELLEY -- #1 Contender to the X Division Title
WINNER: Lethal in 13:00 to become #1 Contender to the X Division Title. Lots of coordinated stunts and bumps that require a complete suspension of disbelief, but provided some entertainment value in the opener. It's going to be tough to sit through five minutes of a slow-down period in future matches after they "fed the monster" every possible second in this one. (*1/2)

2 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & CUTE KIP vs. RHINO & ODB & RHAKA KHAN
WINNERS: Team Rhino in 6:00. Entertaining undercard match. Won't be memorable in the grand scheme of things, but served its purpose. (*)

3 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Daivari in 10:00 to retain the X Division Title. Good singles match. Daivari won in a heelish way to generate about as authentic of a reaction you can get from a 2008 crowd, so it worked. Creed's journey continues on Rough Cut. (**)

4 -- TNA Knockouts champion TAYLOR WILDE vs. AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. ROXXI -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Taylor in 6:00 to retain the Knockouts Title. Short, but a good match. Exciting drama and some big moments from Kong, but Kong is being knocked off her feet far too many times to retain her monster image. Taylor continues to be a good champion for the Division, though. (*3/4)

5 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jackie) vs. ABYSS & MATT MORGAN vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. LAX (HOMICIDE & HERNANDEZ) -- Monster's Ball match -- TNA Tag Title match -- Steve McMichael special referee
WINNERS: Beer Money in 22:00 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Heck of a stunt brawl if that's your kind of thing. Fortunately, the crowd has been red-hot all night, so this came off pretty well with tons of energy. Abyss taking a mid-match flaming table spot was typical Abyss. (***1/2)

6 -- BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. A.J. STYLES vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE
WINNER: Booker in 13:00. Some really good moments in this one from Styles, who is a star when he's in the ring. The two attempted Tower of Doom spots were unnecessary and hurt the flow of the match. Could have been well above three stars, but they tried to do too much here. (***)

7 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. KURT ANGLE -- Mick Foley special enforcer
WINNER: Jarrett in 20:00. Really nice match with a good story until the finish in typical Jarrett fashion. The finish didn't hurt the drama and it was fine on a relatively-clean card so far, but two clean chair shots to the head indicates some people just won't ever learn. Jarrett looked to be in great physical condition in his first match back. (****)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion SAMOA JOE vs. STING -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Sting in 16:00 to capture the TNA World Title. This was a really good main event match...until the finishing sequence that killed the momentum. Joe and Earl having an endless debate hurt the match, then Nash turning on Joe was straight out of the WCW playbook. Look at the winners in the last three matches... Booker, Jarrett, and Sting. Throw in Nash and Foley as "winners" and you can see where this company is stuck in life 10 years ago. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 14 2008, 10:54 pm
WWE RAW Results: 10-13-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27214.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY & REY MYSTERIO vs. MARK HENRY & KANE

Hardy and Henry started things off, with Hardy losing control early on. The heels worked over Hardy for a few minutes before Rey accepted a hot tag at 4:00. He knocked Henry off the ring apron, then kicked Kane in the face before snapping off a head scissors. Rey then dialed up the 619 and connected. On the floor, they repeated the spot from ECW where Henry caught Hardy in mid-air. But, this time, Rey came flying off the apron and sat on Hardy to push him down onto Henry. After a big collision, Hardy beat Henry up the entrance ramp to the back. Back in the ring, Rey tried a top rope splash, but Kane straight punted him in the gut to knock the wind out of Rey and the fans. Kane then made the cover for the win.

Afterward, Kane wanted to inflict more punishment, but Rey slipped out of a chokeslam and dropkicked Kane through the ropes to the floor. Kane and Rey then had a staredown to end the segment.

WINNERS: Kane & Henry in 6:00. Fine match playing off the recent ECW TV match. Kane continues to show he has smarts to go with being an overpowering big man. (*)

2 -- JBL vs. HAAS HOGAN

Bell sounded after Haas ripped off his t-shirt, then JBL started working him over. Haas suddenly Haased up and did the "you!" point before blocking right hands and nailing a big boot. Haas tried the leg drop, but JBL moved and smashed Haas with the Clothesline from Hell. Lawler said he might have broken his hip. JBL with the cover for the easy win.

WINNER: JBL in 2:00. Eh. The joke worked slightly in So Cal, but JBL is going nowhere right now and Haas's bit is on the verge of getting old. (n/a)

3 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. BATISTA -- heel lumberjack match

They returned with the action in progress as the heels looked on. Batista teased a powerbomb at 1:00, but Michaels slipped to the floor and accepted a blow from a lumberjack. Michaels then slipped back into the ring and dropped Batista on the mat to slap on a figure four. They showed Jericho standing in his locker room watching as Batista powered out of the figure four. Both men slowly recovered, then Michaels nailed a swinging neckbreaker. Batista came back with a powerslam at 3:00, then he grounded Michaels on the mat with a rear naked choke.

They rolled to the top of the second hour with Michaels struggling out of the choke. Batista then gave him a high back body drop before settling into another mathold. Cole took us back to a few months ago when the Michaels vs. Jericho feud was born out of the Michaels vs. Batista feud that came out of WrestleMania. Good acknowledgement of history from Cole tonight. Batista then took Michaels to his feet and nailed a series of clean blows to the lower back. They blew a corner spot, then Michaels got a boot up on a corner whip and rolled up Batista for a two count. Just noticed Randy Orton is ringside for this. Michaels was then tossed over the top rope, but he skinned the cat back into the ring where Batista nailed the Black Hole Slam on the injured back for a nearfall.

At 10:00, Batista stalked his prey and clotheslined him hard over the top rope. Bam Neely wanted a piece of Michaels, but Henry shoved Bam aside and put Michaels in a vicious bear hug. He then rolled Michaels back into the ring where Batista made a cover for a nearfall. Things have been just a bit off thus far. Let's get a break.

They returned with Batista clutching Michaels in a bear hug. Michaels escaped, then he side-stepped Batista to fling him to the outside. Orton desperately wanted to punt Batista in the head, but Batista moved just in time and he fought off Atlas to get back into the ring. Michaels wanted to nail a top rope move on Batista, but JBL attacked Michaels with the ref distracted by another jack. Batista and Michaels recovered on the mat, then Batista nailed a spinebuster at 15:00. he wanted to end it with the Bomb, but Michaels punched out and flipped Batista to the floor. The jacks pounced on both men to assault them, but both men fought them off. Suddenly, they entered the ring and the ref called for the bell.

Batista and Michaels fended off the heels, then JBL snuck up behind Batista. But, Michaels went right past Batista and superkicked JBL in the corner. Henry tried to sneak up on Michaels, but Batista went right past Michaels to spear Henry hard in the corner. Michaels and Batista then recovered in neutral corners while Jericho was shown frustrated in his locker room. After highlights aired on the match, Batista locked eyes with Michaels and Michaels questioned whether the spear was for him. Batista then extended his hand and Michaels hesitated before shaking. Michaels winced, then dipped out of the ring while Batista mulled his options on who he would pick to face Jericho tonight.

WINNER: No Contest in 15:00. Hard to be upset with the non-finish when it was 100 percent clear this was ending without a clean finish. Nice tension between Michaels and Batista, but there was just something off with this entire thing. Crowd couldn't really get into the action with the cast of thousand generic heels ringside blocking the action. (**)

4 -- KELLY KELLY & CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & J.T.G.) vs. JILLIAN HALL & THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

Kelly started things off working on Jillian, then Jillian tagged out to Miz, meaning Kelly had to tag out. JTG came in, but Jillian screamed in his ear, causing a distraction. Miz and Morrison then went to work on JTG in their corner. Shad took a hot tag at 4:00, then the action broke down. In the interim, JTG picked up the Ducks mask and cracked it over Morrison's back. Shad then made the cover for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme & Kelly in 5:00. The sad reality of this is that most of the demo in WWE Universe has no idea what JTG was referring to with the Mighty Ducks series of classic movies that inspired a generation of youths to overcome all odds, rise to greatness, and play for a coach with a police record. (1/2*)

5 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match -- Batista special referee

After Jericho argued with Batista, Punk tried to roll him up, but Jericho kicked out. See, with a babyface referee, it makes sense for him not to just call a three count because he wants to see the heel take a beating. And he is a man of virtue and dignity. Jericho tried to escape, but Batista dragged Jericho back into the ring and fed him to Punk. Jericho was locked up in the ropes for a good while as Batista let Punk get away with more than a five count.

Jericho came back with a leg trip as Punk stood on the top rope, then Jericho went on the offensive while trading verbal jabs with Batista, who simply smiled at him. Punk then side-stepped Jericho in the corner and nailed a series of kicks to build momentum. He nailed the high knee and bulldog combo, then wanted the G2S, but Jericho elbowed out and nailed the codebreaker in center ring. Jericho then made the cover, but Batista suddenly had something in his eye. He stopped his count, then Jericho argued and took a Batistabomb for good measure. Punk then took advantage and rolled on top of Jericho for the easiest pinfall of his career.

Afterward, Batista raised Punk's hand in victory, then he moved to the stage for a big laugh at Jericho's expense. They replayed the ending, then Cole signed off as Jericho tried to collect himself in the ring.

WINNER: Punk in 6:00. Eh. Sent the (unenthusiastic) crowd home happy, but it fed into that sucks-to-be-you babyface booking that is far too pervasive in wrestling these days. Punk didn't gain much here other than a TV main event slot. Jericho was taken down a notch and that doesn't help selling an "off-brand" PPV in eight days. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 16 2008, 01:16 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 10-14-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27240.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. CHAVO GUERRERO -- Qualifying match for Cyber Sunday

Chavo dominated early on and entered into several arguments with the referee when he was asked to break holds in the corner. Bourne then countered a move in the corner and whipped Chavo through the ropes to the floor. Suddenly, Bourne came flying over the top rope with a twisting splash onto Chavo, who took a small percentage of the blow with Bourne eating the floor mainly. Still looked awesome, but Bourne sat up and clutched his knee just a little as they cut to break.

They returned with Bourne hobbling on his knee, then he tried a standing moonsault on Chavo, but Chavo got his knees up to block. Chavo came up favoring his legs as well, then he settled into a mat hold, which he turned into a modified Muta lock. Bourne escaped and tried a move off the ropes, but Chavo nailed a rolling heel kick that took out Bourne for a two count only. Chavo is moving as if he's 10 years younger tonight. Bourne then came back with kick strikes to the leg before knocking Chavo off his feet with a thrust kick. Bourne then took Chavo up top and he wanted the home run of a huge huracanrana, but Chavo ducked and Bourne ate the top turnbuckle crotch-first. Chavo tried to capitalize with a cover, but Bourne escaped. This is a great match thus far.

Chavo settled into a half crab at 11:00 and Bourne escaped with a kick to the face from a seated position. And another. Bourne wasn't able to capitalize, so Chavo busted out the Three Amigos suplex combo. Except, Bourne escaped number three and nailed a gorgeous leaping huricanrana on Chavo. He then climbed up top, grimaced for the top row of fans, and rolled the dice on the Shooting Star Press. He connected to a huge reaction, then Bourne made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Evan Bourne in 13:00 to qualify for CS voting. Excellent TV match. Chavo was strong in the ring while Bourne played a great underdog babyface in the Rey/Jeff Hardy vein. Well done. (***)

2 -- JOHN MORRISON (w/The Miz) vs. FINLAY (w/son Hornswoggle) -- Qualifying match for Cyber Sunday

Finlay quickly started to work over Morrison with a ground attack, but Morrison came back with a running knee strike to the jaw. He settled into a shoulder wrench as Miz offered encouragement. The fans offered their own form of encouragement with a "Johnny Nitro" chant. Wow, long-term memory from a WWE audience. Impressive.

As Morrison continued to work on Finlay, the fans went with a "Let's go Finlay" chant that Hornswoggle pounded on the mat along with to keep going. Finlay escaped, then dumped Morrison over the top rope onto Miz. Finlay told the ref to check on his busted lip and injured eye, then Hornswoggle snuck into the ring and flew through the ropes with a mini-dive on both men. Kinda. He disappeared under the ring, then Miz was dragged down under with him. Finlay tossed Morrison back into the ring and we took a break.

They returned from break with Morrison grounding Finlay on the mat. He kept working and working and working on Finlay for several minutes before a corner collision led to both men taking a mat nap. Finlay was first up and executed a backslide for a nearfall at 14:00. He then made his big comeback with successive clotheslines. Finlay teased the Celtic Cross, but Morrison blocked and nailed a neckbreaker for a nearfall.

Hornswoggle suddenly slipped into the ring and played dead to set up Finlay to run interference with the shillelagh, but Mike Knox showed up to steal the shillelagh. Morrison then smashed Finlay with the springboard kick to the head for the apparent finish, but Finlay kicked out. Knox was suddenly dragged under the ring, prompting the question of whether Hornswoggle was that strong. We then saw Cryme Tyme peek out from underneath the ring to show the true culprits. Finlay then smashed Morrison with the shillelagh in the confusion and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Finlay in 16:00 to qualify for Cyber Sunday. A bit of a wild match that was initially spent mainly on the mat. At least the crowd was into it, making the match bearable on TV during the slow-down period. (*1/2)

Post-match: Cryme Tyme celebrated with Finlay and Hornswoggle, but Finlay suddenly turned on both men with shillelagh shots. Hornswoggle liked what he saw, then Finlay and Horny left the ring to celebrate on stage. Henry then put an end to that by attacking Finlay from behind. They wrapped up the show in a clean 60 minutes as Henry stood over Finlay's body ready to inflict more damage.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2008, 02:32 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 10-16-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's compete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27277.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) & X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR

Unless I missed something the two weeks of Impact I missed, Guns were heels disrespecting everyone and now they're working as babyfaces. Oh, that's right, it's just the interchangeable X Division. Tenay said Mick Foley was signed for a one-time only himself for Bound for Glory, so he's giving his farewell tonight. Meanwhile, Samoa Joe isn't here tonight. As for the match, the action quickly broke down, then Val tripped up Shelley from the outside. Back in the ring, Sabin worked on Dutt to set up Shelley for a top rope frog splash and the win.

WINNERS: Guns in 3:00. Focus was on everything except the match here, which was too quick to establish any flow or sense of purpose. (*)

2 -- HERNANDEZ (w/Homicide) vs. BOOKER T (w/Sharmell)

Hernandez gets his first significant singles match here tonight. They went back and forth, then Hernandez wanted the Border Toss at 4:00, but Sharmell hopped on the apron to distract the ref. Hernandez then walked into a kick to the groin and a briefcase shot to the head. Booker got rid of the evidence, then Booker nailed the axe kick for the decisive win.

WINNER: Booker in 5:00. Typical TNA TV match with a short back-and-forth, then outside interference, and a roll-your-eyes finish. This was a chance to focus on Hernandez as a future singles star, but they did nothing for him here. (*)

3 -- RAISHA SAEED (w/Awesome Kong) vs. ROXXI

Raisha dominated things to start the match, then she paint-brushed Roxxi on the back of the head to taunt her. Raisha mounted Roxxi and drove a knee to the throat, then Roxxi tried to fight back from her knees. Roxxi instead delivered a scoop slam and wanted a top rope move, but Roxxi moved out of the way. Roxxi decided she wanted a piece of Kong, but Kong smashed her with a clothesline on the floor. Kong tried a spinning back fist, but Roxxi moved and kicked Kong down. Back in the ring, Roxxi nailed the Voodoo Drop on Raisha for the win.

WINNER: Roxxi in 4:00. Fine effort from Roxxi. (*)

4 -- CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. KEVIN NASH

The bell sounded and Nash simply asked if this guy is done dancing around yet. Nash quickly nailed a knee to the gut after feigning a lock-up, then he landed clubbing forearms to the back. Creed then tried to use his speed to work around Nash, but Nash grabbed his foot and spun him around into a leaping clothesline. Nash then slapped on a Cobra Clutch before throwing Creed down to the mat. He wanted the Jacknife Powerbomb and easily connected. Nash then fell down to the mat for the cover and the easy win.

WINNER: Nash in 2:00. Just a set-up for Nash's rant... (n/a)

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MATT MORGAN

West said he hopes his isn't just a situation where Cornette is putting a finger in the dike to control Angle's rage. OK, I know what analogy he was going for, but on this show with all sorts of sexually explicit segments, that's probably not a good choice of words. Match started with Morgan knocking Angle to the floor with a shoulder tackle causing Angle to regroup. On the floor, Morgan continued to bash Angle before doing Undertaker's leg drop across the apron. More gimmick infringement when we return!

They returned with Morgan landing a cross body block for a nearfall that dizzied Angle a little. Morgan wanted a suplex, but Angle bailed to the floor to regroup. Tenay said they would have an update on Foley and Jarrett at the end of the show. Angle then easily trapped Morgan in a game of cat and mouse to begin his attack on Morgan. Angle landed a right hand, then Morgan came back with a right hand. After a mid-ring exchange, Morgan landed an elbow smash and a corner splash followed by a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Morgan then ducked a clothesline and nailed a bicycle kick for a nearfall. Morgan then nailed the Helevator move on Angle, but Angle rolled a shoulder to kick out. Morgan limped to his feet, then he went for a slam, but Angle easily slipped out and nailed the Olympic Slam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Angle in 11:00. Morgan had plenty of offense to retain some level of credibility, but at the end of the day, he was just another younger wrestler in a TV main event that we won't remember by next week. (**)

When it's all said and done, only 20+ minutes of wrestling...about half of it in the last match. If you click to Caldwell's report, you'd found that my condensed in-ring report is about a quarter of that full report.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 18 2008, 10:53 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-17-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003151.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Big Show's music hit and he came out to the ring with a reluctant Chavo Guerrero. Show cut a promo on The Undertaker saying things were going to end badly for him. He ran down the three options for his match against Taker at Cyber Sunday. He then said he was going to demonstrate the three matches...

The first option was a "Knockout" match. Show knocked out some local jobber in a couple of seconds. The second option was an "I Quit" match. Show quickly submitted the second jobber. The third option was a "Last Man Standing" match. The third jobber came out. Hurricane Helms popped up and said, "Did you see what happened to the first two? I'm just sayin'." Show put the kid through a table for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Helms is watching the show live? That was awesome. I actually enjoyed this segment very much. It was different, it made a point, and it was effective.

1. Carlito and Primo Colon defeated Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins to retain the WWE Tag Team Championships in 3:44. After some decent action, Primo hit a missile dropkick for the win...

2. R-Truth defeated MVP in 2:55. Truth's entrance was over huge with the crowd. Shelton Benjamin watched the match from the backstage area. In a surprisingly short match, Truth hit a scissors kick for the win. Shelton was shown again watching from the backstage area...

Twill's Two Cents: You know, they could really have a nice United States Championship picture with these three men but MVP's gimmick right now is to come up short of achieving his bonus.

3. Ezekiel Jackson (with The Brian Kendrick) defeated Super Crazy in :44. Hurricane Helms popped up again and asked if Jackson's tights came in his size. Jackson quickly won the match and Kendrick hit The Kendrick on Crazy afterwards...

4. The Undertaker defeated The Great Khali (with Ranjin Singh) by disqualification in 3:18. Khali enjoyed an early advantage in the match but Taker was primed to take the victory. Before he could however, Big Show came out and attacked Taker, causing the referee to call for the bell.

Show thought Khali was with him and handed him a chair to attack Undertaker with. Khali chopped the chair to the mat and took off. Taker grabbed the chair and hit Show with it...

Twill's Two Cents: Am I finally getting what I asked for?

5. Maria defeated Maryse, Victoria, Brie Bella, and Natalya to become the number one contender for the Diva's Championship in 2:09. This was a "fuzzy dice on a pole match." Maria and Maryse fought to the end but Maria grabbed the dice first. Wow...

Twill's Two Cents: Maria vs. Michelle? Hmmm.

6. Jesse and Festus defeated Ryan Braddock and Kenny Dykstra in 3:48. Helms popped up yet again (fine by me) and pointed out that Dykstra loses almost as much as MVP, almost. Festus scored the pin with the flapjack...

7. Vladimir Kozlov defeated Jeff Hardy in 8:22. Kozlov cut an 80s style promo saying he would not be voted in because the fans would fear him becoming champion. Kozlov was overwhelmingly in control early in the match...

Hardy had an offensive flurry that included two Whispers in the Wind, but Kozlov scored the surprisingly clean victory with the battering ram...

After the match, Triple H and Kozlov went face to face with Kozlov eyeballing H's belt...

Twill's Two Cents: I guess WWE wants Kozlov vs. Triple H. If I was Jeff Hardy, I would still be ready to go at Cyber Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 21 2008, 02:16 pm
WWE RAW Results: 10-20-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (Direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27339.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- JILLIAN HALL & KATIE LEA vs. CANDICE MICHELLE & KELLY KELLY

Action broke down here at 3:00, then Candice smashed Katie with a spinning heel kick to the jaw. Candice cleared Katie to the outside, then back in the ring, Kelly dropped Jillian with the Rocker dropper in center ring for the pin and the win. By the way, Kelly is a sailor and Candice is Marilyn Monroe at the PPV.

WINNERS: Kelly Kelly & Candice Michelle in 4:00. Entertaining opener and a unique way to kick off the show. Nothing really to complain about here.

2 -- STONE COLD STEVE HAASTIN vs. JBL

Haastin immediately nailed a Thesz Press on JBL, then stomped a mudhole in him in the corner for a nearfall. JBL had enough after blocking a Stunner, so he nailed a big boot and the Clothesline from Hell for the easy win. After the match, JBL took the mic and said that's the bottom line 'cause JBL said so.

WINNER: JBL in 2:00. Another filler segment involving JBL and Haas that will hopefully lead somewhere at some point sometime. Anytime. Just take it somewhere. (n/a)

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. SNITSKY

Snitsky tried to charge Rey in the corner, but Rey slipped out of harm's way and Snitsky crashed hard into the turnbuckles. Rey then landed a double knee stomp. He tried a huracanrana on Snitsky, but there was a slippage and Snitsky simply flung himself onto the middle rope. Rey followed with the 619, then hit the big springboard splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey in 2:00. Well, that was unrealistic in many ways, but the casual fans just want to see Rey in a position of control rather than getting his brains beat in by Kane, so that will work to set up Rey vs. Kane at Cyber Sunday. (n/a)

4 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK & KOFI KINGSTON

After a few moments of action, they went to the traditional commercial-lead-in-spot where Morrison found himself on the outside, then the babyfaces dumped Miz over the top rope onto Morrison to get a cheer from the crowd. They didn't go to commercial, though, and the match picked up in the ring where Miz came back on Punk with clubbing forearm blows. Kofi then tagged in and wanted a springboard move in the corner, but Morrison kicked him in the face from the apron with the ref distracted. The heels then ganged up on Kofi to isolate him from Punk. They went to break with Kofi firmly grounded on the mat.

By the way, is there still a brand split in this company? Just a thought during the commercial break. In any event, heels continued to work over Kofi at the 10:00 mark. Punk finally entered the ring to break up a pin and get the fans back into the action. Morrison then sat down on Kofi with a modified Dragon Sleeper while Kofi fought back with clubbing forearms. Kofi finally rolled through to his corner and Punk took the hot tag to begin cleaning house. Punk slapped Morrison, then kicked him in the kisser. He nailed the high knee in the corner, then a running bulldog. Punk made a believable mid-air adjustment on a springboard move, then hit a powerslam. In the confusion of the match breaking down, Miz made a blind tag on Morrison while Punk gave Morrison the G2S. Miz then rolled up Punk from behind for a surprise three count on Punk for the win. Afterward, Punk was in disbelief as he held his hands on his head.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 12:00.

5 -- BATISTA vs. WILLIAM REGAL

The bell sounded and Batista gave Regal the Batistabomb for an easy pin. Jericho then slipped into the ring. He kept screaming at Regal to get up so he could get an easy pin, but Regal played dead for several moments.

5b -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. WILLIAM REGAL

The ref finally approved of Regal's status and the bell sounded. Jericho nailed the codebreaker on Regal for the easy pin. Adamle then told Jericho he is starting the next match. Out came the World's Strongest man, Mark Henry.

5c -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. MARK HENRY

Henry dominated the early-going, but he missed with the big splash at 2:00. Jericho tried to follow with the Lionsault, but Henry kicked out. Jericho then removed the turnbuckle and grabbed the World Title belt. He smashed Henry in the head, but the ref had turned around and he saw the clean blow. Jericho was DQ'ed, which apparently means absolutely nothing without any consequences.

5d -- BATISTA vs. MARK HENRY

Henry shoved Batista aside, but Batista came back with a demonstrative spinebuster for the pin and the win. Adamle then announced Kane as the third opponent, with Jericho having to start the match. Lawler said Jericho still hasn't earned Adamle's respect.

5e -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KANE

They returned from break with Jericho and Kane battling back and forth. Jericho shoved Kane to the corner and wanted to work on the knee, but Kane smacked him across the mouth and the loud noise popped the crowd. Jericho tried to come back with the Walls of Jericho, but Kane flipped him across the ring. Kane missed badly with a flying elbow, then Jericho tried the codebreaker, but Kane fought him off. Kane tried a top rope move as Batista cheered, but Jericho crotched him. Kane then came back with a flying clothesline for a nearfall. He wanted a chokeslam, but Jericho elbowed out of the grip and Kane dumped him to the floor. Batista stalked Jericho on the floor, then Kane yanked Jericho back into the ring and nailed a big boot for the pin and the win.

5g -- BATISTA vs. KANE

Before the bell sounded, Jericho distracted Kane, who turned around and took a spinebuster from Batista. Batista then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Batista 3-0 and Jericho 1-2 in 13:00. They eventually got the point across about Jericho being a weak champion with no self-respect and Batista being lined up for an easy win at Cyber Sunday, but the match set-up was just not explained well before it unfolded. Once things unfolded, it made sense, but the live audience was just left in the dark and didn't know how to react to what was happening. Not a good way to sell a PPV. (n/a)

Post-match: Jericho held his ribs in pain. Batista was all-smiles and celebrated the inevitable in six days. Jericho tried to look tough while in pain, then Batista stared down at him. Jericho held up the World Title belt while the announcers gave a final sales pitch for Sunday to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 23 2008, 12:46 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 10-21-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27366.shtml)

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. BRETT BADERY

Swagger with an 80-pound weight advantage in this one, according to the announcers. Swagger landed a hard knee lift early in the match, then Swagger picked up Double B and nailed a gut wrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. After they replayed footage of the squash, Grisham approached Swagger in the ring for a few words. Swagger smiled it up heelishly as Grisham referenced Tommy Dreamer as someone Swagger has been picking on. Swagger thought about Dreamer, smiled, then abruptly asked, "Tommy Who?" He then smiled and walked out of the ring.

WINNER: Swagger in 1:00. Squash and an annoying (in a good way) "promo." Good work from Swagger. He's memorable and going places with this gimmick. (n/a)

2 -- THE MIZ (w/John Morrison) vs. SHAD GASPAR (w/J.T.G.)

Classic heel move from Miz to start things off, with him ducking into the corner for a rope break after acting tough. Shad came back with a left hand jab, then tried a back body drop, but the move came off rather awkwardly. Shad followed with a back elbow smash and a scoop slam for a nearfall while Morrison shouted encouragement to Miz. Shad then tried a clothesline against the ropes, but Miz ducked and Shad ate the floor before taking a baseball slide dropkick into the guardrail. Grisham interjected that things are getting heated on the 'Net between the two sides, to the point where they had to be pulled apart in the parking lot before the show tonight. Striker suggested Miz & Morrison as the Hollywood Brunettes to counter the Hollywood Blondes. Grisham then suggested Miz is playa hating on Shad working him over in the ring. Crickets. Silence. Grisham repeated and Striker asked him to check the mirror.

Shad made his comeback at 4:00 and fired up the crowd before slingshotting Miz across the top rope. Shad nailed a flying elbow smash, then Morrison tried to run interference. It back-fired, as JTG tripped Miz from the floor and Shad nailed a lift-up slam for a nearfall. Morrison then hopped onto the apron and smashed Shad from behind with an enziguiri kick. Ref saw the blow and he called for a DQ. Miz and Morrison then regrouped on the floor and Cryme Tyme shouted down to them standing tall in the ring.

WINNER: Shad via DQ in 5:00. Good match. Basic TV work, but it flowed well and Miz wrestled well in his lead role as the heel guiding Shad through the match. Nice set-up for Cyber Sunday if fans vote for that match on Sunday. (*1/2)

3 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. EVAN BOURNE vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Finlay and Evan tried to double up on Henry to start things off, but Henry fought them off one by one. Repeat. It was tough to catch Striker's stupendous commentary with Atlas shouting instructions at Henry during the match. Henry then shoved Finlay hard across the ring with a hard Irish Whip before stacking up Bourne in the corner. Atlas asked them how that felt, then Henry stomped on Bourne's throat. Finlay tried to come back with a dive from the top rope, but Finlay flew into a big powerslam. Henry charged Bourne, but Bourne yanked down the top rope and Henry ate the floor. Finlay and Bourne then picked up a battle with Finlay essentially dominating into a shoulder breaker for a nearfall.

The match broke down at 3:00 when Bourne caused Finlay and Henry to knock heads and Finlay kinda rolled out of a three count on a crucifix pin by Bourne. Suddenly, there was a spot where Henry caught Bourne in mid-air and back flipped him onto Finlay, but Bourne scored a nearfall on Finlay in the process. Henry then restored order by knocking down both men as they grabbed a break.

They returned with Henry tearing apart Bourne, then walking over to Finlay to get a piece of him. I just enjoy watching Henry decimate an opponent or, in this case, opponents. Bourne tried to fight back against Henry, but Henry wasn't moving. Finlay found a way to knock down the big oak tree, though, with a quick chopblock to the left knee. Bourne and Finlay then double dropkicked Henry to the floor, leading to Finlay vs. Bourne one-on-one. Finlay was favoring his left shoulder and chest area following Henry's work, but he caught Bourne for a backbreaker across his knee. Finlay was either really selling here or very injured.

Suddenly, Henry returned to the action and kicked Finlay in the back. Finlay tried to come back with a crucifix pin, then Bourne hopped onto Henry's back and Henry slammed both men hard to the mat. Henry then started pounding on Finlay before missing with a shoulder tackle in the corner. Finlay followed with a nasty-looking DDT while favoring his chest muscle. Well, this thing totally slowed down as Henry and Finlay battled and Finlay took the audience out of the action because of how much pain he appeared to be in - selling or not selling.

They went to the finish with Atlas catching Hornswoggle on the floor and they rebuilt heat with Horny in jeopardy. Finlay made the save, though, and smashed Henry with the shillelagh in the confusion. Bourne then re-entered the picture out of nowhere and took out Finlay with a double knee smash to the head. With Henry KO'ed from the shillelagh shot, Bourne quickly went up top and nailed a sweet Shooting Star Press on Henry for the pin and the win. Crowd came to life for the finish as Grisham gave the final pitch for Cyber Sunday with Bourne celebrating.

WINNER: Bourne in 14:00. Had its moments. Had some really, really slow moments as well with Finlay appearing to be in tremendous pain clutching his chest muscle. If he was selling, he was over-selling because the audience was moved to silence watching him. Bourne picks up a nice TV win here and Henry makes it 0-2 to start the week. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2008, 02:36 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 10-23-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete and totally boring report [only because the show was THAT bad!!!]) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27416.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only...which were bad enough  -_-

1 -- VELVET SKY (w/Angelina Love and Cute Kip) vs. CHRISTY HEMME

Very small-time look to the ringside area. Things became graphic at 2:00 when Velvet mounted Christy in the corner and rammed Christy's head into the turnbuckles while thrusting. Christy had enough and fired back after kinda ducking a clothesline. She then wanted the top rope fire crotch drop and connected for the pin and the win. Afterward, Christy smartly bailed from the ring to avoid a post-match attack.

WINNER: Velvet Sky in 3:00. OK opener. Christy gets her revenge, but the Beautiful People will easily get their heat back in Orlando. (1/2*)

Oh, and by the way, 30 minutes of TV and we've had 3 minutes of wrestling.

2 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title match

Match started with Lethal nailing a suicide dive on the floor. Back in the ring, Lethal wanted a top rope elbow smash, but Bashir moved in time. Bashir then grappled Lethal and gave him an implant DDT. That was good enough for three, giving Bashir a quick win.

WINNER: Bashir in 2:00. That's it? Two minutes to an X Division Title match. Well, no reason to be shocked, actually. X Division hasn't meant anything in a few years. (n/a)

3 -- TEXT TAG TEAM GAUNTLET BRAWL

Ray and Storm battled, then Roode came out third to help Storm double up on Ray. Now, viewers can text their vote for what weapon - tables, ladders, or chairs - should be used in the match. Devon came out fourth, meaning Team 3D and Beer Money received the fewest votes. Hernandez came out fifth and accepted a 3D for good measure. Homicide then came out sixth, bringing three complete teams into the match. No eliminations thus far, as three teams exchanged blows. After another countdown, Matt Morgan came out seventh. The distance from the entrance ramp to the ring must be like 10 feet total.

Morgan came in hot and started eliminating folks left and right. LAX was done. Abyss then came out as the final participant. He was waving his arm toward Morgan, who told him to stay back. Suddenly, in super-slow-motion, Morgan was dumped over the top rope and he gingerly landed on the floor. Penzer said the fans have vote for tables as being legal now. Ray and Devon's eyes lit up, but Devon was already eliminated. In any event, 3D set up a table in the ring and pulled out the lighter fluid. Sure, just water down the flaming table gimmick while we're at it. Abyss then snuck into the ring and knocked down both men to draw boos. He picked up the lighter fluid, though, and surveyed the crowd. He took too long to think and Devon low-blowed him from behind. 3D then dumped Abyss over the top rope for an elimination.

Fans chanted for fire as it was Beer Money vs. 3D doing battle now. 3D took Roode through the gas-soaked table with a 3D, and Devon had the pin, but Jacqueline yanked the ref out of the ring. Are the belts on the line, by the way? In the confusion, Storm spewed alcohol in Devon's eyes and Devon dropped to the mat. Storm then made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 11:00. Just a messy gimmick tag match. Too much happening at once and they managed to book an unintentional boo-fest for Abyss after completely wasting the sympathy effect for Abyss selling injuries from the flaming table spot at the PPV. (BAD)

4 -- Knockouts champion TAYLOR WILDE vs. AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed)

Fast-paced start with Kong brick-walling Taylor off the ropes, then missing with a big splash. Taylor tried a top rope dive, but Kong smashed her in mid-air with a clothesline. Kong started to dominate while the fans had a dueling chant of "Let's go Taylor" and "Let's go Kong." Taylor tried to fight back, but Kong dropped her with a chokeslam for a nearfall. Kong tried to end it with an Awesomebomb, but Taylor slipped out and nailed a series of dropkicks that rocked Kong. She then went up top for a missile dropkick that took Kong off her feet for a close two count. Taylor suddenly nailed a huracanrana, then Raisha yanked Taylor's foot from the floor. Taylor unloaded on Raisha, but that distraction allowed Kong to grab her and nail a huge Awesomebomb. Kong with the pin and the win to capture the belt.

WINNER: Kong in 4:00 to capture the Knockouts Title. You could tell from the start this was going to be a very fast match. TNA did them an injustice with only four minutes allotted, as the match was very good and could have been even better. (*1/2)

5 -- A.J. STYLES & SAMOA JOE vs. TNA World Hvt. champion STING & KEVIN NASH

Nash and Styles started things off with Nash landing a big knee to the gut. Joe then asked for a tag and he was granted a tag. Nash then quickly bailed from the ring to avoid Joe, leading to Sting and Joe having Slapfest 2008. Joe landed a hard elbow smash in the corner, then brushed off Sting in Nash's direction. Good intensity here. Styles then came in and nailed a leaping scissors knee drop on Sting. He then took a shot at Nash, who answered with a clothesline on Styles from the apron. Heels in control and break time. Dang, we can't even get two minutes of action before grabbing a break. Unbelievable misappropriation of time tonight.

They returned with the heels in control working over Styles at 5:00. Sting then missed with a clothesline and Styles nailed an awesome Pele soccer kick on an unsuspecting Sting. Great sequence. Nash then took a tag and Joe took the appropriate hot tag to set off Joe vs. Nash. Nash wanted a clothesline, but Joe ducked and nailed a leaping kick and sentaun splash for a nearfall. Sting tried a Stinger Splash on Joe in the corner, but Joe moved and Nash ate the Splash. In the confusion, Nash grabbed the TNA Title belt and smashed Joe in the face when Joe was thinking about a suicide dive on Sting. Nash made the cover on Joe for the win. And the crowd went wild for Nash.

WINNERS: Nash & Sting in 7:00. 3 1/2 minutes of in-ring action 3 1/2 minutes of commercials. And this for a potential PPV main event featuring four of the top stars in TNA. Ridiculous.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 25 2008, 10:54 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-24-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003225.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Natalya and Maryse defeated Michelle McCool and Maria in 2:12. Hurricane Helms' comments now have an official name; "Hurrapop." He said, "Divas, giggedty. I'm just sayin'." Jesse and Festus came out to mariachi music and Festus in a mariachi outfit. He handed Maria a flower. When Michelle tried to tag her, Maria was distracted and Maryse rolled Michelle up for the three count. When the bell rang, Festus chased the mariachi band back up the ramp...

Twill's Two Cents: You know, Meghan is beautiful, but she is a badass too. What she does in terms of workouts is extremely impressive.

2. Carlito and Primo Colon defeated Chavo Guerrero and Bam Neely in a non-title match in Carlito and Primo graduated to matching pants. Chavo and Bam were not getting along too well. Carlito used a blind tag to help Primo double team Bam. They continued to utilize solid teamwork. Chavo verbally degraded Bam any opportunity he could. Bam accidentally hit Chavo. Carlito tagged in and was a house of fire.

Bam wanted to know what Chavo's problem was. Chavo slapped him and quickly jumped to the floor. Carlito used the distraction to hit the Backstabber for the win. After the match, Hurricane popped up again and mockingly said he could not handle it if Chavo and Bam broke up...

Twill's Two Cents: The Twilling is a little under the weather tonight and this show is not doing much to keep my head out of my folded arms.

3. R-Truth and Kung Fu Naki defeated MVP and Shelton Benjamin in 3:56. Hurricane popped up and asked, "MVP, where is your tunnel? Let me guess, you lost that too." Ouch! In case you missed it before, Shelton will be defending the United States Championship against MVP, R-Truth, or Festus on WWE.com before Cyber Sunday.

MVP struggled with the Ricky Steamboat like deep armdrags by Funaki. Benjamin tagged in and gained the advantage for his team. MVP tagged in and resumed the success. Naki (I guess I'll go with that) tagged in and hit the Karate Kid kick on MVP for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Is this a demotion for Truth and is Naki really being pushed? If this is a short bit of fun, I'm all for it. I just do not want it to stall Truth's rise towards the U.S. Championship.

4. The Brian Kendrick (with Ezekiel Jackson) defeated Super Crazy in 1:06. Quick squash. The Brian hit The Kendrick, as reported here by The Twilling, for the win. After the match Ezekiel added insult to injury by hitting a super Rock Bottom...

5. The Undertaker vs. Triple H in a non-title match ended in a no contest in 13:49. After a slow start, Taker hit a series of right hands and a closeline for the first nearfall at the 2:30 mark. Taker began working on the left arm and shoulder of Triple H with a hammer lock. Taker tried Old School but H countered it. Taker then crotched himself on the middle rope trying to hit a closeline on H in the corner.

Triple H decided to single out the left leg and knee of The Undertaker. Both men hit a double closeline and were slow to get to their feet. They then exchanged right hands with Taker finally gaining the advantage after a headbutt. Taker hit the snake eyes but Triple H countered the running big boot with a high knee for a two count. Taker countered out of a Pedigree and slingshot Triple H into the top turnbuckle.

Taker successfully hit the running boot followed by a leg drop for another two count. He went for Old School again and again, he failed. Triple H crotched Taker on the top rope. H climbed to the second rope and hit a superplex for a two count. The action spilled to the floor. Taker hit the apron leg drop for yet another nearfall.

Taker gave the throat slash gesture. He went for the Last Ride but H slid out the backdoor and hit a reverse neckbreaker for a two count. Taker tried a chokeslam but Triple H countered with a spinebuster for another two count. Both men attempted their finishers but they countered each other. With Taker in the corner, H went to the second rope and landed some right hands. Taker hit the Last Ride but could not make the cover.

Big Show hit the ring and attacked Taker. The referee called for the bell. Triple H grabbed a chair and nailed Show across the back. Upon trying a second chair shot, Show hit a chokeslam on Triple H. He then hit Taker with two chair shots before leaving the ring...

Twill's Two Cents: Fantastic match; cheap finish. Triple H and The Undertaker worked a textbook match. It was beyond solid and something the young guys should watch. Granted, the nearfalls were not as believable as they would have been on a pay-per-view. Regardless, it was a very good match. The Big Show interference was predictable and made sense, but disappointing nonetheless.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 27 2008, 01:15 pm
WWE Cyber Sunday PPV Results: 10-26-08

Ongoing results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_27472.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8324 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2612225&postcount=8324) and posts thereafter.

Voting:
No Holds Barred - 39 percent
Falls Count Anywhere - 35 percent
2 out of 3 Falls - 26 percent

1 -- KANE vs. REY MYSTERIO -- No Holds Barred match
WINNER: Rey Mysterio in 11:00. Nice opener. Had some slow moments, but Rey used his quickness to excite the crowd and create some good drama. Not much use of the "No Holds Barred" concept, but enough weaponry to give the fans a satisfying opener. (*1/2)

Voting:
Evan Bourne - 69 percent
Finlay - 25 percent
Mark Henry - 6 percent

2 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. EVAN BOURNE -- ECW Title match
WINNER: Hardy in 12:00 to retain the ECW Title. Nice, nice match with Hardy in position to be the stronger wrestler for once. Good to see him in that element rather than having to overcome a Mark Henry type opponent. Great counters at the end with Hardy and Bourne going move-for-move. Should be a match that people remember at the end of this show. (***)

Random Tag Team Voting:
Miz/Morrison vs Cryme Tyme - 38 percent
Cody/Teddy vs Punk/Kofi - 35 percent

3 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & J.T.G.) vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON
WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 10:00. Okay tag match. Started off promising, but slowed down at the end before a finish suitable for the heels to win.

Voting:
Honky Tonk Man - 35 percent
Roddy Piper - 34 percent
Goldust - 31 percent

4 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix) vs. HONKY TONK MAN -- Intercontinental Title match
WINNER: Honky via DQ in 1:00; Santino retains IC Title. Just a filler gimmick match to continue watering down the IC Title. It's merely a secondary title, but it could be valuable at some point again. Fortunately, Santino was entertaining to make this bearable. (n/a)

Voting:
Last Man Standing - 49 percent
I Quit Match - 42 percent

5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BIG SHOW -- Last Man Standing match
WINNER: Undertaker in 20:00. Excellent heavyweight battle. They had a controlled brawl on the outside where everything mattered and they didn't just do a giant brawl for the sake of having a brawl. It's always great theater to watch two respected giants slugging it out in the ring. Nice use of the stipulation and the crowd bought into the action throughout. Taker just continues to roll on having great matches, while Show is being restored to his feared-heel status. (****)

Voting:
Jeff Hardy - 57 percent
Triple Threat - 37 percent
Koslov - 6 percent

6 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. JEFF HARDY -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Hunter in 16:00 to retain the WWE Title. Another great title match between these two. They really added a new layer to the story of the match, with Hardy trying to do two of every one of his signature moves to inflict more punishment on Hunter, but Hunter managed to avoid the second and third Swanton bombs to pick up the win. Unless they go back to the well at Survivor Series for Hunter vs. Hardy, it's time for Hardy to go a different direction to use the rub he's received from wrestling against Hunter. (***3/4)

Voting:
Steve Austin - 74 percent
Shawn Michaels - 22 percent
Randy Orton - 4 percent

7 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. BATISTA -- World Title match
WINNER: Batista in 17:00 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Entertaining match with Austin, run-ins, and a lot of activity. They could get away with that after featuring clean finishes throughout the show before the main event. I would imagine Jericho gets his re-match on Raw before Survivor Series, then Cena returns at Survivor Series to challenge Batista for the belt in a re-match from Summerslam. Stay tuned on that, but a nice cap to an exceptional PPV. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 29 2008, 11:27 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27501.shtml") Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- World tag team champions PRICELESS (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES w/Manu) vs. C.M. PUNK & KOFI KINGSTON -- World tag title match

Gotta love the dudes dressed up as WWE referees standing in the front row facing the hard camera. Well, depends on your perspective. Punk, in his Halloween-themed trunks, landed a running jawbreaker on Cody to start things off. Cody then came back with a jawbreaker of his own to bring in Teddy, who suddenly accepted a drop toe hold into a submission hold from Punk. Kofi and Punk then cleared the heels to the outside before Kofi launched Punk over the top rope onto Cody and Ted. Nice camera shot of Manu staring back into the ring at the challengers before checking on his buddies as they cut to a break.

Back from breaker, Punk teased the Go 2 Sleep on Cody, but Cody slipped out. Kofi then took a hot tag and flew onto Cody with a leaping dive. Kofi knocked Ted off the apron with a flying smash, but then Ted recovered and yanked Kofi off the top rope when he tried a high-flying move. Cody rammed Kofi into the guardrail before tossing him back into the ring to begin a focused attack on Kofi. Crowd came to life as Kofi fired back on Cody, but Cody ducked a clothesline and landed a drop toe hold to keep Kofi in the heel corner. Nice.

At 11:00, Punk rallied the crowd for another Kofi comeback attempt. Suddenly, Kofi caught Cody by surprise with a head scissors from the mat and he hot-tagged to Punk, who cleaned house on DiBiase with roundhouse slaps and kicks. He then nailed the high knee in the corner before kicking Manu off the ring apron. Action broke down, then Kofi jumped over Punk to take Cody over the top rope with a huracanrana in amazing display of athleticism. Ted then tried to surprise Punk with a punch and Russian legsweep, but Punk grabbed the top rope to block. Ted then fell into Punk's grasp for a G2S in center ring. Punk made the cover and we have new tag champs. Arena exploded, then Kofi re-entered the ring to celebrate with Punk. They stayed with this for a good minute, with shots of Priceless arguing about what happened on stage.

WINNERS: Punk & Kofi in 13:00 to capture the World Tag Titles. Nice tag match. Great action and athleticism with a hot crowd to help things out. Punk & Kofi looked inspired in the ring, obviously since they were winning the belts. Interesting to see where Priceless goes from here. (**1/2)

2 -- CHARLIE HASS vs, SANTINO MARELLA (no official match)

3 -- CANDICE MICHELLE & MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY vs. JILLIAN HALL & LAYLA & KATIE LEA

By the way, a three-hour special next week, according to a randomly placed graphic. Suddenly, the whole thing broke down at 3:00 with divas flying on the outside. Kelly and Katie were left in the ring where Kelly nailed the K2 rocker dropper on Katie for the pin and the win. The babyface divas hugged it out in the ring, then Jillian dragged Katie to the outside to recover.

WINNERS: Team Kelly in 3:00. Fine action. Candice was at least serviceable and Kelly delivered her usual dose of high energy. Felt like a waste of Layla, though, as her storyline with Regal against Noble seems to have disappeared. (1/2*)

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. EVAN BOURNE

They get their own quarter hour here, so it will be interesting to see how this rates. Match started off with a headlock exchange, then they busted out some rapid-fire counters that ended with Bourne nailing a head scissors takeover. Rey got up and stared back at Bourne, then Rey snapped off a sick head scissors takeover after a few revolutions. Bourne then recovered against the ropes while catching Rey's eye for a look of mutual respect. Awesome to start. Bourne came back with an arm drag that took Rey to the floor, then Bourne teased a baseball slide kick, but Rey moved. They ran back into the ring together and had another stare down. Rey smiled while Bourne had a great intense look. Let's grab a break.

Back from break, Bourne was in control. They showed some clips of during the break when things became physical, including a majestic springboard moonsault by Bourne onto Rey on the floor. Back live, Rey and Bourne exchanged slaps before Rey turned the tables on Bourne and slingshot him through the ropes to the outside. Rey then ran off the apron with a nice leaping dive onto Bourne right in front of the camera for a tight shot. Back in the ring, Bourne came back with a tilt-o-whirl backbreaker for a two count. Rey then tried a springboard move, but his knee gave out and he crashed to the mat. Bourne recovered nicely and tried a pinfall for a nearfall. He then tried to work over the knee, but Rey escaped and fired off a dropkick.

Rey followed with a springboard dive, then he wanted a running move, but Bourne popped up and nailed an enziguiri kick. What a counter. Bourne with a cover at 10:00 for a nearfall. Bourne followed with a sick standing moonsault for a two count, then he wanted to go up top for the SSP, but Rey threw him down. Rey then flung Bourne onto the middle rope and nailed the 619. Rey wanted to end it with his springboard sentaun, but Bourne sat up and ducked. He then tried a Jack Evans reverse huracanrana, only to have Rey counter into a victory roll and trap Bourne for a three count. Beautiful. Afterward, Rey looked down at Bourne with respect, then they shook hands.

WINNER: Rey in 12:00. What a match. That was special. Bourne is unbelievably gifted with the "it" factor and he continues to take advantage every time WWE hands him the ball to make a run. Rey was in his element and delivered a great performance. (***)

Post-match: As Rey and Bourne shook hands, Kane's music hit and he stormed the ring. Rey told Bourne he's got this, as it's his business. Rey tried to charge Kane, but Kane kicked him in the face. Kane beat on Rey, then Bourne tried to make the save. They doubled up on Kane as the crowd cheered them on, but Mark Henry showed up. Bourne kicked him away, then tried a springboard splash, but Henry caught him in mid-air. Meanwhile, Kane delivered a chokeslam on Rey as the crowd gasped. Henry rolled Bourne back into the ring and delivered the World's Strongest Slam. Rey and Bourne were laid out as the monsters stood tall to close the segment. Great heat segment to build up the monsters and build sympathy for the babyface comeback. Nicely done.

5 -- World Hvt. champion BATISTA vs. JBL & CHRIS JERICHO

Batista shoved Jericho down, then Jericho tagged out to JBL. The big men battled in the ring with Batista nailing a clothesline and a big suplex. Batista with a suplex? The heels tried to double-team Batista, but Batista fought them off and sent JBL to the floor. He then flung Jericho onto the apron and ran from the opposite side of the ring to bounce Jericho off the apron with a clothesline into the announce table. JBL stared back at Batista in disbelief while Batista screamed at them to come on. Cut to break.

Back from break, JBL and Jericho were taking turns working over Batista in their corner. Batista then rolled to the floor to recover, but Jericho landed a baseball slide dropkick that sent Batista flying into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Batista fired back on Jericho with a clothesline as they reached the top of the hour.

Batista landed a Black Hole Slam on Jericho, then he knocked JBL off the apron. Batista tried to finish off Jericho with the Batistabomb, but Jericho slipped out and nailed the codebreaker. Jericho couldn't make a cover, though, as he sold an injury, so Batista kicked out of the eventual cover. JBL then tagged in and wanted the Clothesline from Hell, but Batista ducked and nailed a spear. Suddenly, Shawn Michaels emerged 12 minutes into the match. He hobbled down to the ring clutching his ribs, then Michaels went to the babyface corner. Michaels took the tag, but the ref didn't see it, as Jericho had the ref occupied. Ref disallowed it, then Jericho tried to use the belt on Batista, but Batista ducked. JBL was supposed to take the accidental shot, but Jericho missed him. Michaels then feigned a superkick on Jericho, but Jericho moved and bailed to the floor. Awkward sequence, but they recovered with Michaels scaring Jericho away. Batista then finished off JBL with a Batistabomb and made the cover for the win. Afterward, Jericho bailed to the stage while Michaels helped Batista up. Batista and Jericho stared back at each other from a distance while they plugged next week's three-hour show to close the show.

WINNER: Batista in 13:00. Fine main event match. Hectic ending that looked sloppy, but the professionals covered for any perceived mistakes and took it home to get the point across for Batista vs. Jericho in the cage next week. Cole had some good points throughout the match to add an extra layer of intrigue to the match. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 29 2008, 11:51 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 10-28-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27529.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE & ECW champion MATT HARDY & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & CHAVO GUERRERO & BAM NEELY

Match started with Bourne and Chavo exchanging moves. Bourne took out Chavo with a head scissors that popped the crowd, then he settled into an arm bar before tagging in Finlay. Grisham said he spoke with Rey Mysterio after the Bourne match and Rey told him Bourne is amazing and he took him to the limit. Nice follow-up on the Raw match so far. Bourne tagged back in and tossed Bam to the outside before landing a flip-dive on the floor. Bourne came up holding his right ankle, though. I slowed it down in slow-mo on the DVR and all of his weight came crashing down on his right ankle while Bam tried to break his fall. The babyfaces stood tall in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, the heels working on Bourne's left leg. He actually potentially injured his right ankle on the pre-commercial break, but the heels are working the left. Bam, then Henry started working over Bourne's lower body as Bourne screamed out in pain.

Chavo Guerrero flipped into the ring to show-off, then he went to work on Bourne in the corner. Bourne tried to fight back with his right foot, then he finally made a hot tag to Hardy, who cleaned house on Chavo. Hardy then went to the second rope and nailed an elbow smash. He wanted to end it, but Bam became involved. Hardy ducked a Chavo clothesline and nailed the side effect. Bam tried to break up the pin, but Hardy moved and Chavo ate the elbow smash. Henry then entered the scene and gave Hardy the World's Strongest Slam. Hornswoggle became involved to run interference on Henry that popped the crowd, then Finlay smashed Henry with the shillelagh. Atlas then yanked Finlay out of the ring. Hardy was KO'ed, then Chavo took advantage with a top rope frog splash on Henry for the pin and the win. Whew. That was chaotic.

Afterward, Chavo pumped his face as the announcers speculated on whether Chavo is in line for an ECW Title match now. The heels then celebrated on the outside while Chavo pointed at Hardy, who was tended to by the babyfaces, including a grimacing Evan Bourne.

WINNERs: Team Chavo in 10:00. Very hectic, but exciting finish. Looks like we're in line for some Hardy vs. Chavo action. Meanwhile, Evan Bourne could probably use a nice ice bag and a few days of rest after three grueling matches in three days and a potential ankle injury to boot. (**)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER

Striker: "The heart of the WWE Universe is Tommy Dreamer." Well, that's good to know. Dreamer landed a hard clothesline near the ropes that sent Swagger to the floor, then he followed with a baseball dropkick into the announce table. Back in the ring, Swagger landed a high knee-lift as Dreamer tried to get back into the ring. Swagger sold pain in his chest muscles as they cut to break.

Back from break, Swagger was becoming frustrated with Dreamer's resiliency. He grabbed him by the hair and screamed, "Why won't you give up?!" Dreamer shot back, "Never!" Good moment to break up the monotony of heel mat work. Swagger slapped on a Dragon Sleeper, but Dreamer kicked out. Swagger then pounded on Dreamer with clubbing fists before missing with a springboard Vader's Bomb. Dreamer came back with a swinging neckbreaker for a two count, then a running bulldog. He pumped up the crowd with his extended arms pose before hitting a clothesline from the second rope. Dreamer then wanted the Dreamer DDT, but Swagger countered with a Northern Lights suplex for a two count. Dreamer tried to come back with a bridge pin, but Swagger slipped out and countered into his gutwrench powerbomb finisher for the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 9:00. Fine match. They made us forget about Dreamer's terrible win-loss record in ECW and overall lack of quality matches to make Swagger struggling with Dreamer for nine minutes at least acceptable. Swagger struggling a little bit was good for his development on TV. (*3/4)

Last 15 minutes was The DirtSheet with Morrison and The Miz mocking Triple H and HBK.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 01 2008, 09:49 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-30-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27587.shtml). Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY (w/Cute Kip) vs. CHRISTY HEMME & ODB

At 3:00, Kip tried to get involved, but Christy jumped onto him on the floor. In the ring, ODB gave Velvet a near-atomic wedgie before nailing a modified Rock Bottom for the pin and the win. Let's cut backstage!

WINNERS: ODB & Christy in 4:00. Fine. Just fine. Predictable because Beautiful People can always get their heat back after losing in the ring. (1/2*)

2 -- ERIC YOUNG vs. JAMES STORM (w/Jacqueline and Robert Roode)

Looked like a quick squash with Storm nailing the Eye of the Storm at 2:00, but Young kicked out. Jacqueline, sporting a suit, then tried to run interference for Storm, but Roode accidentally spewed beer in Storm's face. Young, who apparently watched week 2 of CCW, executed a schoolboy for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Storm and Roode tried to beat down Young, but Machineguns stormed the ring to make the save. They cleared Roode and Storm from the ring before checking on Young. Shelley extended his hand and Young took a shake.

WINNER: Young in 3:00. Just a filler, waste-of-a match to continue building up the alliances and trust issues in the Young Guys group. I don't like that name. We need a name for this group. (1/2*)

3 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. VOLADOR & TANAHASHI

Lots of rapid fire action in this one to start with, then Sabin took a hot tag and cleaned house. Volador found himself in Sabin's clutches via the fireman's carry, then Shelley hit a double foot smash on Volador setting up Sabin for the Cradle Shock. Sabin made the pin on Volador for the pin. Afterward, Bashir was irate - irate! - at the developments. He threw down his headset, then stormed the ring to chew out Volador. Rhino then snuck into the ring and waited for Bashir to turn around before delivering the Gore for an exclamation mark.

WINNERS: Guns in 4:00. Just not enough time in the ring for this to develop into a meaningful match. Even the post-match was rushed. Too much in too little time. (*)

4 -- KEVIN NASH & Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. SAMOA JOE & A.J. STYLES

The match started with Nash and Styles, with Styles trying to use his quickness to chop Nash down. He eventually got a dropkick to the knees, then he knocked Booker off the apron and hit a springboard dropkick onto Nash. Joe then flew through the ropes with a suicide dive elbow smash onto Booker. Joe and Styles stood tall after barely two minutes of action leading to a break.

They returned from break with Joe in control until Nash nailed him with an elbow from behind on the apron. Nash then entered the ring without a tag and started working over Joe. Booker entered next and landed a back thrust kick for a nearfall. The heels worked over Joe for quite some time with some off-spots. Joe just doesn't look right or comfortable in the ring taking a heel beating. Joe then snapped off a powerslam at 11:00 to cut off Booker momentarily. Styles then took a hot tag and the action completely broke down. Joe slapped on the rear naked choke on Nash, but Booker broke it up and dumped Joe to the floor. Booker then walked into the Pele soccer kick and Styles pinned him for the win. The young guys, including the Guns, then showed up ringside and celebrated with Joe and Styles.

WINNERS: Styles & Joe in 13:00. There was just something off about this match. Styles was a breath of fresh air once he was in the match, but the isolation of Joe really didn't represent anything more than tag team filler to build toward the hot tag. It didn't seem like Booker or Nash was over credibly looking for a pin; just going through the motions of isolating Joe. (*1/2)

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. ABYSS

Abyss has third degree burns and tunnel vision. Let's see how this plays out tonight without Morgan ringside to cool his itchy skin and boils. Morgan has been a real friend to Abyss, West said. Abyss shoved Angle hard to the mat to open things up. He then pounded on Angle with forearm blows and a hard knock-down clothesline. Angle pretended to have enough, so he left the ring. Abyss gave chase and clubbed him with a forearm before rolling him back into the ring. After a quick clothesline back to the outside, Angle decided to take it into the bleachers to run away from Abyss. Here comes the customary Abyss brawling portion of the match. After the break.

They returned from break with Abyss and Angle stumbling down the bleacher steps before Abyss sent Angle crashing into the PPV poster on the base of the wall. Abyss then looked into the crowd chanting his name and he gleefully acknowledged the camera. Abyss took Angle back to ringside and rolled him back into the ring for a chokeslam, but Angle broke free and started to chop down the Abyss tree with a chopblock. Abyss then Abyssed Up blocking a few punches and he nailed a big boot and big splash in the corner. He then nailed the Shock Treatment, but Angle kicked out at two. Abyss then casually walked over to Angle, so Angle nailed the Olympic Slam for a two count.

Both men recovered, then Angle wanted a moonsault, but Abyss grabbed him in the corner for a powerbomb and a two count. Abyss argued with the ref about the count, allowing Angle to slip to the outside and retrieve a chair. Abyss didn't see it, then he walked into a clean chair shot to the head. The ref saw it and called for a DQ.

WINNER: Abyss via DQ in 12:00. Good match, but a mere set-up for the post-match... (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 01 2008, 10:51 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-31-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003308.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Miz and John Morrison defeated Carlito and Primo at 11:03. Morrison and Primo started out. JR said Pat Patterson had asked him to the prom, said he thought JR was one of the Village People. Primo had a couple of quick near falls before tagging in Carlito. Carlito promptly lost control to the heels. Primo came back in to aid his brother and the two cleaned the ring of the heels going into the break…

Back from commercial at the 6:20 mark led to a double-team on The Miz and a two count. Carlito body slammed Morrison and then powered bombed Primo on him. Morrison fought back after kicking out at two and he and Miz worked on Primo. Morrison had like a weird sparkle river in all the crevices of his abs. Carlito got the hot tag at 9:58. Primo and Morrison fought on the outside. Carlito went for a spring board but Morrison knocked his arm off the ropes, causing him to fall. Miz hit his finisher for the win.

Shore’s Slant: Fun match. Pretty good for TV standards. Smackdown has been flat the last two weeks. I hope the good Raw means a great Smackdown. I cannot explain how ridiculous JR looks.

2. The Brian Kendrick w/Ezekiel defeated Jimmy Wang Yang by Disqualification at 2:45. Yang hip tossed TBK who popped up and pushed him like “how dare you.” Yang stomped on his foot. Fun start. Yang had control for about 30 seconds before TBK hit some power moves on Yang. Yang rolled out of a knee drop and then started a high flying offense very much like the old Kendrick. He hit a moonsault and Zeke drug TBK out of the ring causing the DQ. Yang went to jump on Zeke, but he was caught and dropped on the apron. Back in the ring, Zeke hit his finisher followed by The Kendrick…

Shore’s Slant: Not a big fan of The Brian Kendrick not being able to beat Yang clean. Seems to diminish him a little.

3. Jeff Hardy, Matt Hardy, and Rey Mysteiro defeated Mark Henry, Kane, and MVP at 11:05. Matt and Henry started off. Henry got the better of Matt and then tagged in MVP. JR again mentioned the next win brings a huge payout to MVP. Mysterio got the hot tag and worked on MVP quickly. He went to the corner and the Hardys did a double suplex on MVP and Rey hit a cross body for a cool triple team move. Henry came in and got dropped in the ropes. Mysterio hit the ropes in a 619 tease and Kane grabbed his feet and drug him to ringside…

Back from commercial at the 6:21 mark and MVP had the advantage on Mysterio. Kane came in and manhandled Mysterio. The Henry came in and walked on Mysterio. MVP came back in and worked on Mysterio’s back. Kane came back in and again manhandled Mysterio. Mysterio reversed a move and he and Kane hot tagged Jeff and MVP. Jeff was all over MVP. Kane broke up a two count that led to the faces clearing the ring. Jeff went for a Twist of Fate on MVP but he pushed him off and turned into a Matt Twist of Fate. Jeff hit the Swanton for the win. JR mentioned, again, the MVP still had not earned his bonus…The casket was shown once again and JR plugged the main event.

Shore’s Slant: You know, this match wasn’t too bad for what we saw of it. But I’m having a hard time enjoying it with the MVP burial. What did he say to the dick watcher? I mean, seriously, this is his punishment for giving someone a hard time while drug testing? I mean, he passed the test, right? Isn’t that what is important?

4. Michelle McCool, Maria, and Brie Bella defeated Maryse, Natalya, and Victoria at 3:53. Victoria wrestled in her banana suit. Maryse was in her French maid’s costume. I couldn’t tell you what the rest were after I saw that again. Victoria got a two count on Brie who crawled under the ring. Victoria grabbed her legs and stopped her until a foot or a hand popped out and pushed Victoria off. Brie came back out and threw Victoria back in the ring and hot tagged McCool. McCool worked over Victoria and came off the ropes and Maria blind tagged her. Maria hit a crossbody off the top for the win. Post match, Maria and Brie celebrated while McCool looked confused.

Shore’s Slant: McCool’s heel turn should be next week or the next at the latest. What ever happened to the really good matches we had with McCool and Natalya? That feud just died.

5. The Undertaker defeated Chavo Guerrero in a Casket Match at 7:03. Back from commercial and Show was standing at the top of the ramp watching. Chavo started to run from Taker but ran towards the casket, spun and ran into a big boot. JR reminded us that Vickie said this would be Taker’s last match. Taker had Chavo out of the ring in less than a minute. He dropped Snake Eyes on Chavo on the casket. He put Chavo’s head in the casket and the hit the casket. Show sneaked a little closer and then turned back.

Taker started towards Show but the turned and ran at Chavo. He went for a big boot but Chavo moved, causing Taker to nut shot it on the casket. Chavo hit a few blows and then tried a press onto Taker but was caught and drove into the wall. Chavo got back in the ring and Taker followed. Chavo DDT’s him and called for Show who started that way. Taker sat up and Show retreated. Chavo brought a chair in Taker back body dropped him. Taker went to put Chavo in the casket but Show slammed it shut.

Taker dropped Chavo and stared at Show. Chavo hit him in the leg from behind with the chair. He bounced off the ropes and got choked slammed. Show jumped in the ring and beat down Taker. He ran at Taker who pulled the top rope down and Show flipped out onto the casket. Show reacted like the casket was 250 degrees. Taker did the throat cut gesture.

Taker tombstoned Chavo and then rolled him into the casket and closed the lid for the win. Post match, the lights turned off and Taker celebrated Taker style while Show watched from the ramp…

Backstage, Vickie was shown watching on a monitor. She said, “Title shot? Fine. But you have to do something for me first. Next week, you face the Undertaker. If you beat him, I’ll give you Triple H at Survivor Series.” She turned and looked at Kozlov and he scowled deeply as the show went off…

Shore’s Slant: Yeah! Fun show. The non-wrestling parts were fine, except for the Masked Magician part. The matches were not bad and I felt several storylines move. Very nice job this week. The casket match was predictable once Chavo was announced as the opponent, but it did advance the storyline so I’m OK with it. R-Truth vs Benjamin for the US belt and Kozlov vs Taker. Looks like a good time next week as well.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 04 2008, 11:01 pm
WWE RAW Results: 11-3-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27663.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JEFF HARDY & ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel) & MVP

Jeff appears to be channeling the Barbarian with his eye-make up selection tonight. Oh my, they ran the spot where the referee didn't see a hot tag, except it was for the heels. Change of pace. Jeff took advantage by nailing the Swanton Bomb on MVP behind the ref's back as the ref was arguing with Kendrick, then Matt made the easy cover for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Hardys in 4:00.

2 -- IC TITLE #1 CONTENDER BATTLE ROYALE

Some standard battle royale action started things off, then Manu and Cody DiBiase teamed up to dump Snitsky over the top rope. Suddenly, DiBiase snuck up behind Cody and Manu to dump them over the top rope. Cody and Manu could not believe their tag partner dumped them. Suddenly, Noble and Regal were on the outside. Apparently it was only Noble eliminated. Shad and JTG were left with DiBiase, who dumped JTG over the top rope to the floor. DiBiase then stalked Shad. They had an exchange while Santino said he could beat either one of those chumps. Shad then got hung up to dry on the top rope and DiBiase dumped him to the floor. Regal, who was not eliminated earlier, then snuck up behind DiBiase and dumped him to the outside to pick up the win. Santino remained confident he could take Regal while Regal celebrated with Layla in the ring. They showed a replay of the finish and Santino said Regal a cheated. But he's not scared, even with Raw in the U.K. next week.

WINNER: Regal in 3:00. Well, that was a quick battle royale. They really teased a DiBiase IC Title reign for about three seconds there, but now we'll get the tension between Priceless instead of re-focusing on the tag titles they lost last week. (1/2*)

3 -- KOSLOV vs. BRET HAAS

Koslov with a quick victory via the big boot, belly-to-belly suplex, and giant headbutt to the sternum for the win. Cole plugged Smackdown this Friday where Koslov gets a World Title shot if he beats The Undertaker.

WINNER: Koslov in 1:00. Squash. Not particularly amusing with the line for Koslov about Koslov screwing Koslov. Vince must have been reminiscing this week. (n/a)

4 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & WWE champion TRIPLE H)

We joined the action in progress with Hunter exploding into a clothesline on Morrison out of the corner. Shawn took a tag, then he worked on Miz before nailing a top rope elbow smash. Michaels wanted to end it, but Morrison held him back allowing Miz to nail a clothesline that turned Michaels inside out. Miz, by the way, with a crazy new Mohawk tonight. Miz tried to end it at 4:00 with the Reality Check, but Michaels blocked into a backslide for a nearfall. Miz then hopped up and nailed a clothesline. Morrison tagged in and wanted the rolling neckbreaker, but Michaels escaped and hit a kick to the head before tagging in Hunter. Hunter cleaned house with the traditional combo of moves, then he wanted the Pedigree on Morrison, but Miz broke it up, only to take a spinebuster. In the confusion, Morrison hit a springboard smash on Hunter for a two count when Michaels broke up the pin.

Morrison went back at Hunter and nailed a flying fist before kipping up like Michaels. He then tuned up the band in the corner like Michaels, which drew plenty of boos. Michaels then creamed Hunter with the superkick before tagging in Miz, who slowly entered the ring. Miz and Morrison did crotch chops over Hunter's fallen body before Miz went for the Pedigree. He took forever, so Hunter turned it into a back drop. Michaels then pulled Morrison to the outside. You see this coming. Michaels with the superkick on Miz, then Hunter with the Pedigree for the win.

Afterward, Cole tried to keep Miz and Morrison in the game by saying they gave DX a good fight, but Lawler countered that their egos got the best of them. Hunter and Michaels sold post-match injuries while celebrating. Miz and Morrison regrouped on the floor while DX stood tall in the ring, then Hunter posed over Michaels while they stared down at them.

WINNERS: DX in 8:00. Well, kind of went how you expected. Miz and Morrison with a very basic, no-harm-no-foul attack on Hunter and Michaels on ECW last week because they couldn't go for the jugular, then DX pretty much buries Miz and Morrison on the mic before giving them a slight amount of offense before finishing it off easily. Just the usual Spirit Squad formula here. (**)

5 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & vs. KELLY KELLY & CANDICE MICHELLE & Divas champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & BRIE BELLA & MAE YOUNG & MICKIE JAMES & TIFFANY vs. Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & LAYLA & VICTORIA & JILLIAN HALL & NATALYA & MARYSE & KATIE LEA & LENA YADA

WINNERS: Team Beth in 2:00. As expected, this was a very short match. They flew in a whole lot of folks for a whole lot of nothing. (n/a)

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK

Cole dropped the most over-used word of the political campaign, Maverick, in reference to Punk's in-ring style. At least he didn't call him a swashbuckling wrestler. Orton stalked Punk for the RKO at 2:00, but suddenly, Ted DiBiase stormed the ring and tackled Punk for a DQ. DiBiase pounded on Punk while Manu and Cody Rhodes stood on the apron, but Orton stepped into a punt to the head on DiBiase. He didn't get much of DiBiase, but DiBiase sold it as if he were dead. Cody and Manu stepped into the ring as if they were going to try something, but Orton stared them down before leaving the ring. Manu and Cody just stood over DiBiase while referees checked on DiBiase.

WINNER: Punk via DQ in 2:00. Well, that was disappointingly short. (n/a)

7 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. JBL

At 3:00, Taker and JBL bumped heads in the ring, causing JBL to slip to the outside. JBL started to re-enter the ring, but he saw Taker sit up in the ring. JBL then decided he would take a powder for a count-out loss. He smiled it up and pointed to his head, but unfortunately for him, Shawn Michaels didn't break much of a sweat tonight. Michaels ran to ringside and threw JBL back into the ring where Taker finished him off with a Tombstone Piledriver.

WINNER: Taker via DQ in 4:00. That was a match designed for Taker to get an appearance in on Raw, but for a Taker who is about to embark on another grueling international tour with a banged up body. Looks like HBK vs. JBL at Survivor Series. (*)

8 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & KANE vs. REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON

Kofi looked pretty good here, but then he went to the well once too often in the high-risk department, allowing Henry to catch him in mid-air. Rey tried to dropkick Kofi on top of Henry, but Henry stood firm and Kane clotheslined Rey. Henry then delivered the World's Strongest Slam on Kofi for the pin and the win in 2:00. Afterward, Kane flung Rey through the ropes. Great Khali's music hit, then Khali came out to silence. Crowd isn't aware of the babyface push. He then chopped Kane, stepped into the ring, and then chopped Henry down to size to set up the 619 for Rey, who had no idea what to make of this. Rey hit the 619 anyways, then Khali chopped Henry down to the mat one more time. Rey and Khali shared a moment, if you can call it that.

WINNERS: Henry & Kane in 2:00. Another short match, then Khali's babyface push was brought to Raw. Just fine. (1/2*)

9 -- World Hvt. champion BATISTA vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- Steel Cage match for World Hvt. Title

Jericho tried to escape in the opening seconds, but Batista yanked him off the cage wall to bring him back inside the ring for a beating. Batista continued to dominate by stretching Jericho against the cage wall leading to a break.

Back from break, Jericho had Batista locked in the Walls of Jericho in center cage. Batista refused to give out, though. Jericho then demanded the door be opened. Batista read the strategy and grabbed Jericho's leg before propelling Jericho away and into the cage door. Jericho almost fell out of the cage on accident, which would have given him the World Title, but Batista lunged out and pulled Jericho back inside the cage. Batista fought Jericho near the door, then Jericho slammed the cage door on Batista's left leg to begin his attack. Batista tried to muster an attack with a spear on Jericho, but Jericho moved and Batista ate the cage wall.

Jericho then tried to climb out, but Batista opened the cage door and grabbed Jericho as he climbed down. Batista hugged him, then pulled him back into the ring for a nice spinebuster. Batista wanted the Bomb, but Jericho grabbed the cage wall to avoid and start climbing again. Suddenly, Jericho bounced to the mat and Batista crotched himself on the top rope. Jericho was the first one up, so he started climbing again.

Batista got up, though, and grabbed Jericho for a Batistabomb from the top rope. However, Jericho held onto the cage cable and took a weapon from the corner. He then smashed Batista repeatedly in the forehead to knock him out and draw blood. (Wait, isn't it kid-friendly now?) Batista tried to grab Jericho one more time, but Jericho kicked Batista in the knees and then fell to the ground to win the match and become new champ.

Afterward, Batista slumped to the mat inside the cage in shock. Jericho then collected himself and took possession of the title belt. He grinned slightly, then slowly walked down the entrance ramp. They showed Batista slumped down in the corner, exasperated, with blood trickling down his forehead.

WINNER: Jericho in 15:00 to win the World Hvt. Title. Typical WWE cage match with a lot of teases for wrestlers trying to escape the cage. Quite the surprising finish.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 06 2008, 01:17 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 11-3-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27699.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. BAM NEELY -- non-title match

Thank goodness for Matt Striker making it clear Bam is receiving a non-title shot. And last time we saw Chavo Guerrero, he was put to rest...again...by The Undertaker on Smackdown. They started with some nice mat wrestling. Was Knobs consulted? Bam then smashed Hardy in the back before starting his attack on the lower region. It's obvious Bam is a grunter in the weight room, making sure everyone knows he gave full effort maxing out on the bench press. Striker with a Jake "the Milkman" Milliman reference in reference to Bam being from Robbinsdale, Minn. even though Jake is from Milwaukee. But an old AWA name. Match picked up at 5:00 when Bam tossed Hardy off the top rope and scored a close two count with a light cover. Suddenly, Hardy snapped off the Twist of Fate on Bam, who was becoming frustrated. Hardy then made the decisive cover for the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 6:00. Nice match. Bam looked solid and Hardy gave him enough offense to remain credible while also putting in a strong effort to look like a credible champion himself. (*1/2)

2 -- RICKY ORTIZ vs. JOHN DAVIS

Before the bell, Ricky wanted a handshake, but Davis looked at him like he was mad. Striker said Davis is no slouch, as he was trained by Dory Funk, Jr. Grisham and Striker exchanged some banter about WrestleMania 25, with Striker being assured he'll be at the show as long as he's not fired between now and then. Harsh from Grisham. Ortiz wanted the Big O and nailed his running splash in center ring for the win. He remains unbeaten.

WINNER: Ortiz in 2:00. Eh. I suppose it's fine to rebuild him via the squash match formula after not being on TV for a few weeks. (n/a)

3 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) -- #1 Contender match to ECW Title

Nice feeling-out process to start things off. Henry then smashed Finlay with a headbutt and Finlay came up with a cut around his right cheek. Ouch. Finlay paced around the ring to recover, then Henry shoved him into the corner to land some forearm blows. Henry shoved him down, then stalked Finlay to land a knee to the jaw. Henry in control going to break.

Back from break, Henry continued to just straight dominate Finlay, who remained on the defensive. Henry finally lost control when he missed with a splash and Finlay capitalized by going to town on Henry's left leg and knee. Finlay sold a wrist injury, but he kept attacking Henry to keep him on the ground. Henry finally regained his footing and disposed of Finlay to the floor. Finlay then managed to take out Tony Atlas on the floor before things broke down when Hornswoggle ran interference to give Finlay a nearfall. Horny decided to stick around in the ring, then Henry spotted him and gave chase on the floor. Finlay tried to take advantage, but Henry rammed Finlay hard into the ringpost.

Henry then flung Hornswoggle into the ring and wanted a big splash on both, but both moved out of the way. The ref tried to get Horny out of the ring, and in the interim, Finlay smashed Henry with the shillelagh square in the head. Finlay discarded the evidence, then he covered Henry for the pin and the win. Hardy vs. Finlay next week for the belt. And now Finlay and Horny dance. End show.

WINNER: Finlay in 13:00 to become #1 contender. A fine match. They stretched out about seven minutes worth of content over a 13-14 minute span and told a good story in the ring. The usual run of interference from Hornswoggle has become common place, so it would be nice if they go the extra mile next week of having Hardy acknowledge that issue - to show that he actually pays attention to the broadcast - in order to have a clean title match against Finlay. It would be a nice nod to the viewers from the people writing ECW that they don't think viewers are completely oblivious or ignorant to the obvious interference in every Finlay match. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 09 2008, 11:06 am
TNA Impact! Results: 11-6-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27737.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) & CHRISTIAN CAGE vs. Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) & TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jacqueline)

We have previews of two Turning Point PPVs matches on Sunday with the Guns challenging Beer Money for the tag titles on Sunday. Christian took a hot tag at 3:00 and landed double reverse DDTs on Beer Money. Booker was then knocked off the apron before Christian went up top, only to have Roode knock him off the top. Booker then accepted a hot tag, but he missed with an axe kick and Christian yanked him down to the mat. Christian then went up top and nailed the frog splash, only to have it broken up by Beer Money. Guns then entered the fray and the deal broke down, of course. Shelley and Sabin with some high-risk double-teaming, then Jackie ran ref distraction in the ring while Christian had Booker pinned. Sharmell then tossed Booker the belt and he kinda um...brushed him with the belt. Christian played dead, then Booker made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Team Booker in 5:00. Five-star match! Geez, what a ridiculously over-booked deal that's so over-played and completely eye-rolling, not heat-inducing to make you want to order a PPV on Sunday to see the "heels" get their comeuppance. Lazy booking. (*)

2 -- TANAHASHI & VOLADOR vs. ABYSS & MATT MORGAN vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. LAX (HOMICIDE & HERNANDEZ) -- #1 Contender ladder match

3D nailed the diving headbutt to Hernandez's crotch early on, then Morgan entered the scene and dropped Devon with a sidewalk slam. Okay, it's been two minutes. That's enough action for now, so let's get a break.

Back from break, Hernandez shoved Morgan off a ladder in center ring to the floor. Hernandez then wanted a big dive on the floor, but he only caught a ladder that was on the floor. The big white janitor Abyss then stepped inside the ring and gave Homicide the Shock Treatment. Ray had enough and gave Abyss a side slam before splashing the ref to KO him. Tanahashi then took down Ray before landing forearm smashes on Devon into a spinning neck slam. He took too long on a frogsplash, though, and 3D no-sold into nailing a 3D in center ring. Suddenly, Beer Money stormed the ring and low-blowed Team 3D to take them out. Abyss then started climbing the ladder , and he reached out to grab the contract. The bell sounded although the ref was still out cold. Dave Penzer announced the victory anyways, then Morgan and Abyss had an awkward celebration.

WINNERS: Morgan & Abyss in 9:00. Just what you would expect with a ref bump, outside interference, and the ring announcer counting the decision. (*)

3 -- Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED vs. RHAKA KHAN & TAYLOR WILDE

Kong worked over Roxxi a minute into the match, then she had a good stare down with Khan. They kept that moment for a while, and Rhaka is so much more in control of character. It's refreshing, as there was just too much happening to be memorable. Khan then took a hot tag and she had a big stare down with Kong in center ring. They shared a moment, then Khan suddenly grabbed Taylor and slammed her. Kong and Khan shared a smile, then Kong finished off Taylor with the implant buster for the easy pin and the win. Khan and Kong then stood tall together in the ring with Raisha. Oh, the Twin Towers.

WINNERS: Kong & Raisha in 3:00. I like where this is going. It sets up a Knockouts version of the heels aligning against the smaller-in-stature babyfaces, who will hopefully rally with Taylor and someone else. ODB lacks credibility, Roxxi isn't a threat, and Gail Kim is gone. (1/2*)

4 -- MAIN EVENT MAFIA (World Hvt. champion STING & KURT ANGLE & KEVIN NASH) vs. JAY LETHAL & CONSEQUENCES CREED & ERIC YOUNG

Angle, then Nash, then Sting toyed around with Jay Lethal to start things off. Lethal finally escaped against Sting to tag in Young, who cleared Nash off the apron into a powerslam on Sting. Young dropkicked Nash through the ropes before Angle made a blind tag to allow him to attack Young from behind and slap on the anklelock. Young fought for the ropes, then flipped Angle onto his belly to escape. Creed slipped in at 3:00 and cleaned house. Creed wanted a superkick on Angle, but Angle countered into an easy Olympic Slam for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Angle in 4:00. Just a chance to show the Mafia at the top of its game heading into Sunday and the Young Lions not even being close to being in the same category. DX gave Miz & Morrison more on Monday night than how this one went. (*)

5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. SCOTT STEINER

Joe came out second and immediately charged Steiner in the ring. Joe knocked Steiner off his feet, then smashed him in the corner with a stun kick. Steiner slumped down, then Joe bent him over and landed a roundhouse kick before the big running knee drop for a two count. Joe landed a slap to the back before applying a rear choke. Steiner then pulled ref Hebner into the hold so he could land a mule kick with Hebner not in position to see it. It was pretty entertaining listening to Hulk Hogan's in-ring commentary from Week 3 of CCW talking through the heel-cheating portion of a wrestling match. Steiner went on the offensive and nailed the Steinerline before doing some push-ups. Let's grab a break.

They returned with Steiner lighting up Joe's chest with chops. Of note, Steiner is retaining his tank top to cover his chest. Joe came back with a big boot to the mush before landing the running sentaun splash for a two count. Joe then blocked a Steinerline and landed a nice t-bone suplex before pausing to get the crowd involved. Kevin Nash then tried to sneak down to ringside for a closer look at the action. He hopped up on the apron to distract Joe, allowing Steiner to attack him from behind. Suddenly, Joe flew through the ropes with a suicide dive on Nash. He pummeled Nash while Steinr wrapped brass knucks around his fists back in the ring. Joe then casually rolled back into the ring and Steiner KO'ed him with the knucks. Steiner tucked the knucks back inside his trunks before making the cover on Joe for the win with Joe looking up at the lights.

WINNER: Steiner in 8:00. Young Lions lose yet another match, but it's obvious where this is going. In the context of the storyline, they're going to keep losing until they figure out how to keep their cool, avoid the easy distractions that Nash was trying to teach Joe for ten months when they were together, and get that killer instinct to aim for wins, not big highspots. Steiner was a step slow in his first match back, but it was still a good main event cap to sell the PPV. (*3/4)

Post-match: Nash pummeled Joe with right hands before A.J. Styles stormed the ring with chair in hand to clear Nash from the ring. Main Event Mafia then walked out on stage with Angle clapping it up for Nash and Steiner. Styles and Joe tried to regroup in the ring while Sting pointed his baseball bat at Styles.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 09 2008, 11:14 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-7-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003408.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Shelton Benjamin defeated R-Truth to retain the United States Championship in 4:05. Truth came out utilizing his quickness but Shelton took the advantage after hitting a gut buster. Truth scored a nearfall after two closelines and a jumping thrust kick. Truth hit a somersault plancha onto Benjamin on the floor.

He threw Benjamin back into the ring and hit a missile dropkick for a long two count. With Truth favoring his ribs, Shelton suplexed him across the top rope. He followed up with Paydirt for the win...

Twill’s Two Cents: Decent four minute match but the first match between these two at Cyber Sunday put a big wrench into what was a good feud. Not sure how they move forward from here.

2. Ezekiel Jackson (with The Brian Kendrick) defeated Jimmy Wang Yang in 1:04. Hurricane Helms popped up and said Michael Phelps called. He wanted his tights back from Jackson. Jackson squashed Yang quickly...

After the match, Kendrick celebrated before hitting The Kendrick. Kendrick danced around like he was well, you know...

Twill’s Two Cents: Not much to say here. It was what it was.

3. The Miz and John Morrison defeated Triple H and Jeff Hardy by disqualification in 10:27. Morrison bedazzled his abs even more than normal. Sad that I noticed that. Morrison did a Rick Rude like gyration at Triple H who simply laughed it off. Hardy hit a somersault plancha on both of his opponents. With Miz and Morrison recuperating on the floor, the show went to commercial...

Morrison distracted Hardy, which allowed Miz to work on the ribs and lower lumbar region of Hardy. They continued the onslaught with double team moves. Hardy made a comeback and hit the Whisper in the Wind on Miz for a two count. Miz and Morrison double teamed Hardy. Triple H entered illegally and was thrown out of the ring by the referee.

Hardy cleared the ring with a chair and the referee called for the bell. Just in case you didn’t know Triple H was the biggest star on the show, he gave Miz a Pedigree for good measure after the match. Hardy left with a disgusted look on his face as Triple H celebrated in the ring...

Twill’s Two Cents: Well, at least they seem to have a storyline in place for Hardy as opposed to just have him continuously losing matches. By the way, The Twilling is reporting from a new location tonight. I am using The Meghan’s computer and honestly, I’m still getting used to it. No where else I would rather be though. For those of you that have asked, yes, I am still working on getting her on a future episode of DNW.

4. The Great Khali (with Ranjin Singh) defeated MVP in 2:23. MVP tried to work on Khali’s legs but was quickly squashed. Hurricane Helms popped up again and said MVP was “that close.”...

Twill’s Two Cents: MVP has nowhere to go but up. Wait a minute here; MVP has to pay back his signing bonus if he doesn’t win another match? Who in the hell negotiated that contract? He needs a new agent, stat.

5. Brie Bella defeated Victoria (with Natalya) in 2:27. Victoria scored a nearfall and tried a standing moonsault. Brie put her knees up. She followed up with a monkey flip. Brie won the match with a small package...

After the match, Brie went under the ring and in a funny spot, Victoria had one head and Natalya had one set of legs on opposite sides of the ring. Brie and her twin sister finally exposed themselves. They hit simultaneous face busters in the ring...

Twill’s Two Cents: Glad to see they finally pulled the trigger here. Could you imagine Jerry Lawler calling this match?

6. Vladimir Kozlov defeated The Undertaker by disqualification in 6:37. The pace was slow and plodding early on as both men were feeling each other out. Taker closelined Kozlov to the floor and followed him out. He hit the apron leg drop. Taker scored a nearfall after hitting a huge closeline.

Kozlov countered with a belly to belly suplex. He followed up with a series of rights and lefts to the midsection of Taker. Both men exchanged punches for a couple of minutes. Taker locked in the Devil’s Triangle but Kozlov reached the ropes. Jeff Hardy hit the ring and hit Kozlov with a chair, prompting the referee to call for the bell.

Hardy also hit Taker with the chair. Taker sat up and chased Hardy off. Taker reentered the ring and chokeslammed Kozlov. Backstage, Hardy told Vickie he would take out The Undertaker if she made an extreme rules match. Vickie agreed and booked the match for next week...

Twill’s Two Cents: Interesting finish and I am very intrigued with where they are going with Hardy. I was impressed with the show tonight.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 10 2008, 02:13 pm
TNA Turning Point PPV Results: 11-9-08

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing results) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_27795.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8359 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2620087&postcount=8359) and posts thereafter.

1 -- X DIVISION RANKINGS MATCH
WINNER: Eric Young in 18:00. Good credibility boost for Young to continue rebuilding him. A little heavy on the highspots in a typical X Division match, but not over-done as is the case in X Division Gauntlet match type deals. Good opener. (**1/2)
Order of elimination:
10. Sonjay Dutt
9. Volador
8. Jimmy Rave
7. Homicide
6. Consequences Creed
5. Petey Williams
4. Tanahashi
3. Doug Williams
2. Jay Lethal

2 -- Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED (w/Rhaka Khan) vs. TAYLOR WILDE & ROXXI
WINNERS: Roxxi & Taylor in 9:00. An expected finish to give Taylor the win without giving Kong a loss. Not much memorable here. (*1/4)

3 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. RHINO -- non-title match
WINNER: Rhino in 8:00. Bashir had enough offense to remain credible, but as the key representative of the X Division, it didn't look good for one of the "Young Lions," even if he's a heel not associated with Joe and Styles, to lose decisively to a mid-card act like Rhino. (*3/4)

4 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jackie) vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) -- TNA Tag Title match
WINNERS: Beer Money in 17:00. Sloppy isn't the right word, but it just wasn't a very good tag match. Just a lot of spots without any flow or continuity. Throw in a good ole fashioned TNA eye-rolling finish that we've seen over and over and over and over and over and over and over again ad nausea, and this wasn't laid out well ahead of time at all. Machineguns are better than what was shown in the ring tonight. (*)

5 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. CHRISTIAN CAGE -- Legends Title match or Christian joins Mafia if he loses
WINNER: Booker in 12:00 to retain the Legends Title. Just the same Christian vs. Booker match we've seen before. Christian in the Mafia is quite intriguing, fortunately, otherwise this would have been completely forgettable. (*3/4)

6 -- ABYSS vs. KURT ANGLE -- Falls Count Anywhere match
WINNER: Angle in 17:00. I'm not a fan of the stunt bump matches, but that was a heck of a match. It was unique on this PPV, told a good story, had limited risk, and both men came away elevated. We know Angle is a big-game player, and he reinforced it. We know Abyss is capable of a good story once in a while, and he really stepped up tonight. (****)

7 -- KEVIN NASH vs. SAMOA JOE
WINNER: Nash in 12:00. Another win for the Mafia. Good drama here with a big game veteran vs. a big game "Young Lion" in a compelling match-up. Joe losing should be treated as a huge deal with proper follow-up to move Joe up to the next level. If he's losing, it needs to mean something for his overall growth. (***)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Sting in 16:00 to retain the TNA World Title. Okay main event. Middle of the road with some moments, and carried by a sense of drama being in the main event position. The drama could have been heightened if TNA had played up the easy angle of this being an epic Styles vs. Sting dream match. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 11 2008, 03:33 pm
WWE RAW Results: 11-10-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27830.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion SANTINO MARELLA (w/Women's champion Beth Phoenix) vs. WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) -- Intercontinental Title match

Lillian Garcia handled the formal ring intros, with Regal clearly the babyface in his home country. Santino had a good mix himself. And ring the bell. Regal absolutely smashed Santino with a running knee lift about 30 seconds into the match, then he pinned Santino for the easy pin and the win. Beth was shocked, as was the crowd. Beth then helped Santino out of the ring and checked on his KO'ed boyfriend.

WINNER: Regal in 1:00 to capture the IC Title. Well, that was decisive. You could almost see that coming. Let's hope Regal can bring some prestige back to the IC Title and set up some nice title feuds. (n/a)

2 -- MIKE KNOX vs. D-LO BROWN

Michael Cole said the ECW brand was glad when Knox skipped town. We don't know how or why, but the ECW locker room said good riddance to the bearded mountain man. Knox with a high knee, then the Knox Out on Brown for a very quick win. All righty. Lawler said he had some things to say about Knox, but Knox didn't give him time to say much.

WINNER: Knox in 1:00. Welcome to Raw. Snitsky left his toothbrush by the door. (n/a)

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE -- No DQ match

Rey with a quick kick to the leg, then he bailed to the floor to set up cat and mouse. Rey went for a flying splash off the apron, but Kane caught him in mid-air. Rey fought back with kicks, though, before nailing a moonsault off the barricade. Rey then ran back into the ring. And another commercial break a minute into the match.

Back from break, Kane booted Rey in the head before throwing him into the corner to land some haymakers. Rey then suddenly Kane in position for the 619, but Kane slipped to the floor and chucked Rey hard into the guardrail. That looked sick. Kane then went to work on Rey's left arm and shoulder to try to force him to give it up. Kane then exposed the corner turnbuckle and wanted a powerbomb, but Rey moved and kicked Kane in the chest before snapping off a huracanrana.

The match moved into the second hour with Rey making his comeback by kicking Kane over the top rope to the apron. Rey then yanked Kane's right arm across the top rope to avoid a clothesline. He tried to follow with a springboard splash, but Kane caught him in mid-air with an uppercut. Kane then pulled back the ringside mat to expose the concrete floor. He wanted a Tombstone, but Rey slipped out and countered into a weak DDT that kinda sent Kane to the concrete floor.

Rey then brought Kane back into the ring for a nearfall. Rey followed with the 619, then he landed the big splash. Suddenly, Kane reached up for a chokeslam to stop a pin attempt, but Rey escaped and sent Kane face-first into the exposed turnbuckle. Rey then came off the top with a leaping kick on Kane to score the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio in 12:00. Okay match. Had your usual take-it-or-leave-it spots in a Kane match that were a little off, but it was a fine conclusion to their feud. At the end of the day, Kane was elevated during this feud by re-gaining his killer instinct, while Rey benefited from just staying relatively health. (*1/2)

4 -- BATISTA vs. CODY RHODES (w/Manu and Randy Orton)

They started with a headlock, then Cody tried to target the left knee, but Batista punched him away. Batista teased a Batistabomb toward Orton, who had moved on stage, but Cody slipped out and landed a bulldog for a two count. Cody then took Batista into the corner with a drop toehold before Manu landed a cheap shot behind the ref's back.

Batista came back with a boot to the gut, then a hard forearm smash. Cody slipped out of a shoulderbreaker, but he ran into a spinebuster. Manu was knocked off the apron, then Batista set up for and connected with the Batistabomb in center ring. Batista made the cover for the win.

Afterward, Manu took a spear for good measure. Batista then stared up at Orton, who simply looked into the ring from the stage. Batista then walked out to the entrance ramp. He approached Orton, but Orton walked backward through the curtain to leave Batista on stage by himself.

WINNER: Batista in 3:00. That's one way to get around giving away a major Batista vs. Orton match without pre-show hype. Disappointing segment in the short-term, but we'll see how it plays out over time. (1/2*)

5 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella) vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Women's Title match

A little off tonight with the in-ring chemistry. Finish happened after Mickie knocked Santino off the ring apron when he tried to interfere, then Beth rammed Mickie head-first into the corner turnbuckle. Mickie was KO'ed, then Beth dragged Mickie into the corner for the pin and the win. Santino, surprised, hopped up to celebrate over-the-top in the ring with Beth.

WINNER: Beth in 2:00 to retain the Women's Title. Unfortunately, this was a rushed match with only a few minutes allotted in the ring, leading to a below-average match. They just couldn't settle into any sense of flow. (1/2*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- non-title Last Man Standing match

The bell sounded 20 minutes before the top of the hour, so they have plenty of time tonight. They quickly went to the traditional last-man-standing spots in this one before moving to the floor and up the entrance ramp. Jericho landed a right hand smash on Michaels, who needed six seconds to stand up. They suddenly cut to break with Jericho approaching Michaels for another knock down blow.

Back from break, the men were brawling next to the traditional U.K. stage with the cab vehicle. Jericho rammed Michaels head-first into the cab, and Michaels made his feet at eight. Michaels then slingshot Jericho into a cheap-looking plastic mailbox. Not the greatest spot in U.K. set history. Jericho and Michaels then battled onto the hood of the cab where Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Michaels cried out in pain as Jericho kept it locked in, then Jericho threw down the hold and rolled Michaels off the hood to the ground below. Michaels made it back to his feet at nine, but the drama wasn't there with the audience taken out of the match based on how isolated they are fighting on the stage area.

Michaels then threw Jericho off the stage to the concrete below. Not much of a drop, then Michaels grabbed the camera rigged on a crane and rammed it into Jericho's face. Jericho made it to his feet before ten, then the brawl moved through the stands to the ringside area. Michaels then retrieved a ladder, but Jericho stole it and rammed it into Michaels's head. Michaels then avoided another ram shot before throwing Jericho onto the Raw announce table. Michaels set up a ladder, then he climbed the ladder, did a crotch chop, and nailed the big flying elbow smash that took Jericho through the table.

Both men then made their feet at eight while the fans booed for some reason. We found out why, as JBL then showed up ringside. Michaels ducked his attack, though, and dumped JBL into the front row. Jericho took advantage with a belt shot to the face and Michaels stirred at seven. The ref reached nine and Michaels reached his feet just barely. Michaels suddenly nailed Sweet Chin Music on Jericho, but JBL smashed Michaels with a (protected) steel chair shot to the head. Both men were down as ref Kiota made his count. Jericho reached his feet at nine, but Michaels couldn't get up, giving Jericho the win.

WINNER: Chris Jericho in 19:00. Just didn't quite meet the expectations built into the show based on the hype as the final encounter between these two. The crowd never really got into the match with so much action taking place on the floor and isolated from the audience. Both men put in commendable efforts, but there was just something off. The execution just didn't have the "it" factor tonight. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 13 2008, 12:57 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 11-11-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27867.shtml)

1 -- CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPAR) & TOMMY DREAMER vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & JACK SWAGGER

After Swagger bailed from Dreamer, Striker went for Al Franken right off the bat, saying you don't send a funny man to do a serious job. JTG then dropped the "Timbs to the chin," as Striker called it, by landing a dropkick to Swagger's jaw. I'm glad I bailed on Timberland stock a few months ago before the price dropped like a rock. In any event, Shad dumped Swagger to the floor, then Shad clotheslined Miz and Morrison to the floor. Crowd pumped. Babyfaces in control. Shad then press-slammed JTG over the top rope onto Swagger. Dreamer followed with a cannonball dive onto JoMizzy on the floor to cap the first-half of the match before grabbing a break.

Back from break, the heels were shockingly in control. Striker went back to the politics on saying the voters got something right with Prop 8 in California. JTG finally escaped Morrison's grasp at 9:00 to make the hot tag to Dreamer, who cleaned house. Dreamer landed a bulldog on Miz, then took Morrison down with a pumphandle overhead slam for a two count. The action broke down, then Dreamer walked into the Moonlight Driver corkscrew neckbreaker after attempting a DDT. Morrison with the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison & Swagger in 10:00. Nice way to get Miz & Morrison back in the game after the DX loss last Monday night. Good action to open the show. (*1/2)

2 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. OLIVER BINEY

The local product, Oliver, took a beating before succumbing to the World's Strongest Slam in center ring for the easy pin. After a replay of the squash, Grisham found himself in the ring to chat with Henry. Henry didn't care to offer an opinion on who's winning Hardy vs. Finlay tonight. Henry then giggled in Grisham's direction before leaving the ring in a huff.

WINNER: Henry in 1:00. Nice, effective squash, followed by a great "what did you just say?" look from Henry toward Grisham. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) -- ECW Title match

Great start to this with a collar and elbow tie-up, followed by an exchange of headlocks. Striker set the stage by saying the last European to hold a major World's title was Austria's Otto Wanz holding the AWA Title in 1982. Of note, Wanz held the belt from Aug. 29, 1982 to Oct. 9, 1982 in between Hulk Hogan and Nick Bockwinkel reigns. Hardy then heeled on Finlay by tossing Finlay over the top rope to the floor. Under the old NWA-WCW rules, we have a quick DQ. Finlay then sent Hornswoggle scurrying under the ring while he regrouped. Time for a break.

Back from break, Hardy was working over Finlay before nailing a bulldog for a nearfall. Suddenly, Hornswoggle hopped up on the apron. He tried to avoid the distraction, then Finlay rammed Hardy into the ringpost causing Hornswoggle to fall off the apron. Hornswoggle sold a right knee injury, then Finlay checked on his "son" before returning to a beating on Hardy. The action spilled back to the outside where Finlay landed a short-arm clothesline near where Horny was recovering. At 11:00, Hardy shoved Finlay off the ring steps, sending Finlay crashing into the guardrail. Finlay came right back with another short-arm clothesline, then they grabbed another break with both men fighting on the floor.

They returned from break with Finlay pinning Hardy...okay...not really. But, that would be something if a pinfall occurred during the long commercial break to make this seem more realistic. In any event, Hornswoggle waved off the trainers during the break. Hardy then came back on Finlay with the side effect for a close call to a chorus of boos. Hardy with another side effect for another two count. Hardy wanted a third, but Finlay escaped into a roll-up for a two count. He then nailed the rolling gut buster (Grisham called it the Celtic Cross), but Hardy kicked out in two. Hardy then went up top for a moonsault and he connected for a close two count.

At 20:00, Finlay and Hardy knocked heads and Finlay fell on top of Hardy, but Hardy put his foot on the bottom rope to break the count. Finlay then slowly picked up Hardy, who suddenly surprised Finlay with the Twist of Fate in center ring. Hardy made the cover and scored the pin for the win. Afterward, Hardy celebrated and Striker called it a Match of the Year candidate in his opinion. Finlay then stood up and shook Hardy's hand before giving him a bow. Hardy celebrated one more time before they embraced with a hug to close the show.

WINNER: Hardy in 21:00 to retain the ECW Title. The two long commercial breaks in the middle of the match knocked it down slightly, but this was still a very good ECW Title match. Finlay, as the veteran hand in the ring, kept a great pace for the match, while Hardy played his role effectively as the confident champion in the challenger's near-hometown turf. Very smart match with good commentary from Grisham and Striker to boot. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 15 2008, 09:20 am
TNA Impact! Results: 11-13-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27918.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results except for end of show.

1 -- Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) & RHAKA KHAN vs. ROXXI & TAYLOR WILDE

Bell sounded when Kong brought Taylor into the ring, then Kong tossed Taylor half-way across the ring by her hair extensions. Taylor eventually broke free from Kong at 2:00 and made the hot tag to Roxxi, who knocked around Kong before climbing on her back. Khan then entered the ring to break that up, setting off a four-woman brawl. Roxxi dumped Khan to the floor, which nearly resulted in a wardrobe malfunction, then Kong smashed Roxxi and gave her the implant buster in center ring for the win.

WINNERS: Khan & Kong in 4:00. About as expected with Khan in there - things fell apart at the end after some good energy in the ring. (*)

2 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. ERIC YOUNG -- X Division Title match

Bashir was quickly on the offensive, then Young made his comeback at 2:00. This isn't Finlay vs. Hardy in terms of time allotted to the match. Bashir then ducked his head and Young powered up with a clothesline. He landed right hand blows to the head while Tenay said Young has never held the X Division Title. Young then shoved ref Shane away before walking into a low blow from Bashir. Shane then stopped short on his pin and wouldn't make the count because he maybe caught a glance of Bashir kicking Young between the legs. Bashir then shoved Shane down and Shane decided he had enough. Shane ripped off his ref t-shirt to a big pop after having a crazy look on his face. Shane fired off a dropkick on Bashir, then he smashed Bashir with a right hand that spun him into a Death Valley Driver. Young connected, then Shane made the pin for the win. Afterward, the TNA Originals including crazy old ODB joined the in-ring celebration. Ref Earl Hebner showed up to check on Shane, who was a shaking and a shivering and a convulsing. Joe and Styles then showed up in the ring apron to offer applause for Young's win.

WINNER: Young in 4:00 to capture the X Division Title. Well, now Shane is the most credible wrestler in the X Division. It doesn't get any worse for the X Division that Young was celebrating a completely tainted victory with the help of a referee that looked far more impressive than anyone currently in the division. (*)

3 -- SCOTT STEINER (w/Kurt Angle) vs. RHINO

Basic exchange early on with Angle hyping himself as the greatest wrestler today, then Steiner busted out a belly-to-belly suplex on Rhino for a two count. Angle then addressed work/shoot on Jeff Jarrett and he said it's real heat between them. He said he doesn't like working for Jarrett, but he loves this company. Geez. Back in the ring, Steiner ripped off some chops while Angle hyped their big welcoming party for Christian tonight. Rhino then came back with a modified TKO to set up his comeback on Steiner. He hit a mild belly-to-belly suplex, then called for the end. Suddenly, Angle left the announce table and held Rhino's foot to block the Gore. Steiner then took advantage with a belly-to-belly suplex on Rhino for the win.

WINNER: Steiner in 5:00. Rough match. Angle's over-the-top commentary made it bearable, but this was two men trying to find their pace in the ring trying to wrestle a fast-paced heavyweight match. Rhino could barely pop his hips to suplex Steiner and instead just gingerly dropped him on the mat. (1/2*)

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. JAY LETHAL -- TNA World Title match

Basic exchange early on to set a nice pace for the title match. Lethal then took Sting to the corner for a few punches before nailing a springboard smash for a nearfall. Sting ended up on the floor, then Lethal nailed a suicide dive to have Sting reeling, including selling a left leg injury. Is the title in jeopardy? Find out after the break.

Back from break, Sting was still favoring his knee but in control of the match. With Sting dominating Lethal on the floor, Shelley and Sabin decided to come ringside for a closer look at the action. They pumped up Lethal, who fought out of a chinlock with elbow smashes before nailing a flying forearm to make his comeback. Suddenly, there was a mid-ring collision. Shelley then jumped on the apron to distract the ref and Sabin tried to set up Lethal for some help on Sting, but Lethal, apparently not wanting to be Eric Young winning a title by nefarious means, wanted nothing to do with Sabin's help. He shoved Sabin out of the ring, then Sting took advantage by nailing Lethal with the Scorpion Death drop from behind for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Joe and Styles stormed the ringside area to confront the Guns on their interference. Joe piefaced Sabin setting off an argument, then Consequences Creed ran down to restore order. ODB and Young even joined the fracas. Lethal said he didn't need the Guns's help, then the show was interrupted by Spike's VGAwards.

WINNER: Sting in 8:00 to retain the TNA Title. Fine title match. Sting gave Lethal enough to elevate him a touch in the credibility department. It sets up the storylines to go a couple of different directions with the in-fighting among the Young Lions. (*1/2)

5 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jackie) vs. A.J. STYLES & SAMOA JOE -- TNA Tag Title match

Nice flurry from Joe to start things off, as he ripped off a sweet enziguiri kick on Storm. Styles then knocked Storm to the outside and Joe & Styles stood tall in the ring in total control. Team 3D decided to get a closer look at the action while they cut to break.

Brother Ray and Devon were on commentary out of the break as Beer Money worked on Styles in their corner. Devon was suddenly doing a lot of talking and Ray said I guess that's what happens with Obama in office. Ray said it's obvious Beer Money want no part of the 20-time world tag champions. After Storm came over for a word with Ray, they went back in the ring where Roode continued to work over Styles. Tenay asked 3D about the War and Ray said the Mafia has it right with the young punks today having no respect for them. He said he doesn't think the Mafia has it right either since they don't have the greatest tag team of all-time in their stable.

Styles pulled out the Pele kick on Storm to cut him off and make the hot tag to Joe, who came in to clean house with straight right hand jabs. Joe landed a running kick on Roode, then he nailed a corkscrew gutbuster out of the powerbomb position on Storm. Joe suddenly snapped off a powerslam on Roode, but it was good for a two count only. After the action broke down, Joe had the Musclebuster on Roode, but Jackie ran interference. 3D then got involved and Ray spewed beer in Storm's eyes to cause the match to be thrown out.

Afterward, 3D cleaned the ring except for Joe and Styles, who were not happy with them causing the match to be thrown out. They confronted Devon while Ray talked trash to Roode, who had a busted nose.

WINNERS: Match thrown out in 11:00. Good energy tag match. Definitely above-average with 3D offering some enhancing commentary to the action. They addressed the question of where 3D stands and let it play out a little this week to set up future storylines. Well done.

Impact Zone: The Mafia walked out to the ring, then Kurt Angle welcomed out Christian Cage to officially join the group. Angle clapped it up for Christian, who simply walked out in street clothes with his hands in his pockets. Steiner wanted to know where the suit is. Angle said when they give him a suit to wear, you wear it. All of them have had differences with Christian at some point, but they want to welcome him to the family. He said family is commitment. Angle went through all of the commitments from the other Mafia members, then he brought up Christian possibly going to WWE. He said the Mafia members had the same offer, but when it comes down to it, you're in the ring for a going-away party, not a welcoming party. Angle said once you abandon the Mafia and TNA, you abandon everyone. Angle threatened a beating, so Christian went for the first punch on Angle. That set off the Mafia, except Sting (who wasn't there), beating down on Christian. And beating down and beating down. They made their mark on Christian. End show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 16 2008, 08:34 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-14-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003504.shtml)

1. Matt Hardy defeated Shelton Benjamin in 14:07. Hurricane popped up and said Benjamin's hair looked like he was the love child of Gary Coleman and someone else. I did not catch the second name. The first two minutes of the match saw Benjamin working Hardy over with some nice mat work.

Hardy turned the tides and did the same. Hardy focused his attack on the left arm of Shelton. When Benjamin attempted to come back, Hardy bested him with a series of deep, Ricky Steamboat like, armdrags...

The show came back from commercial unexpectedly quick. Hardy tried a left handed suplex, just like Jeff does, and Shelton countered to take the offensive advantage. Shelton worked heavily on the left leg and ankle of Hardy. Hardy came back with a side effect and bulldog for two separate nearfalls. Shelton hit a huge kick to the face for a nearfall.

Shelton, with Hardy in the corner, hit two Stinger splashes. He tried a third one but Hardy countered it with what looked like a side effect. Shelton came back and perched Hardy backward on the top rope. Hardy knocked him off and hit a moonsault for a very nearfall. Benjamin was able to lock in a single leg Boston Crab but Hardy reached the bottom rope. Hardy hit the Twist of Fate out of nowhere for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Very good match. I like that they utilized logical mat work along with their superior athletic skills. I feel both men look strong coming out of the match. Two for two this week for Matt Hardy.

2. The Brian Kendrick (with Ezekiel Jackson) defeated Carlito (with Primo Colon) in 5:48. Some solid action between came to a head when Jackson knocked out Primo, distracting Carlito to the point to give Kendrick the opening to score the win...

Twill's Two Cents: This was a solid match and I'm guessing it is leading to a tag title program between these four. That would be just fine.

3. Kung Fu Naki defeated MVP in 1:21. Anyone notice that MVP always poses a split second after his pyro hits? I love how Naki is billed "from Japan." That is like anyone else being billed "from America." MVP knocked Fu Naki to the mat when The Great Khali's music hit. He came out with Ranjin Singh. The distraction allowed Naki to hit the Crane Kick for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Well, at least MVP will get a Survivor Series bonus check and Fu Naki will not.

4. Michelle McCool defeated Maria to retain the WWE Diva's Championship in 1:37. Hurricane popped up and said, "Diva title, yeah. I'm just sayin'." They shook hands before the opening bell. Jesse and Festus came out to the ring. Festus has a teddy bear with him. Maria scored the first nearfall with an ensiguiri. Michelle locked in the heel hook and changed it up to an ankle lock to gain the quick submission victory.

After the bell rang, Festus went after Michelle. In the ring, Festus helped Maria up and gave her the bear. Maria thanked him as she recovered. Jesse and Festus helped Maria out of the ring...

Twill's Two Cents: That's it? Maria wins a number one contender's match a month ago and Michelle teases a heel turn, and we get a minute and a half? Wow.

5. Jeff Hardy defeated The Undertaker in an Extreme Rules match in 15:56. Hardy was fast from the opening bell. He closelined Taker to the floor and ran the railing to hit another closeline. He tried it again but Taker caught him and threw him into the steel steps...

Taker was on the offensive coming back from the break. He threw Hardy to the floor and whipped him forcefully into the guardrail. Taker positioned Hardy on the apron, placed a chair on top of him, and hit his signature leg drop. As Taker went for another chair, Hardy grabbed a kendo stick and nailed Taker with it multiple times.

He tossed Taker back into the ring and hit him again, but Taker countered with a big boot to Hardy's face. Taker picked up the kendo stick and hit Hardy in the back, knocking him to the floor. Taker followed him out and tried a running big boot, but Hardy moved. Taker crotched himself on the top of the guardrail.

Hardy fought back with about twenty hard right hands. Taker countered with one, sending Hardy to the mat. Hardy countered a move and slammed Taker into the steps. He then used the steps for Poetry in Motion and ended up on the floor in the crowd. Hardy recovered and both men traded shots on the floor before Taker threw him back into the ring.

The Undertaker went for Old School but Hardy crotched him on the top rope. Hardy went to the floor and underneath the ring. He brought a ladder out from the other side of the ring. He entered the ring with the ladder and ate the ladder via an Undertaker big boot. Taker threw the ladder into Hardy's face and sternum as he stood in the corner.

Taker set up the ladder and whipped Hardy into the corner. Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind. Big Show hit the ring, disposed of Hardy, and hit a chokeslam on Taker. Hardy jumped at Show and was caught. He held onto him and Taker hit Show with a chairshot. Hardy then hit Taker with a chair. He set the ladder up and hit the leg drop from the top rope over the ladder for the pinfall...

Twill's Two Cents: I did not care for Show's interference but it made sense. The match was very good and very physical. JR and Tazz were on top of their game here, especially when JR referred to a ladder match between these two many years ago.

Hardy stumbled to the back and was met by Vickie and Chavo. Vickie applauded Jeff and told him he would be added to the championship match at Survivor Series if he could beat Triple H next week. Hardy said that was fair and he would beat Triple H. He warned Vickie that if she did not add him to the title match, he would go extreme on her...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 18 2008, 10:37 pm
WWE RAW Results: 11-17-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27991.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY vs. VICTORIA

Victoria, from Smackdown, is on the show tonight. Victoria seemed to make short work of Kelly after hitting a reverse torture rack slam, but Kelly kicked out in two. Kelly then spun over Victoria's shoulders into a roll-up for the quick pin and the win. After the match, Victoria played the sore loser role and jumped Kelly from behind. She then finished off Kelly with the Widow's Peak in center ring. Mickie James's music didn't like what happened, then Mickie, Candice Michelle, and Jillian Hall stormed the ring to run off Victoria. It's brand vs. brand diva drama at Survivor Series.

Things seemed to be done until Beth Phoenix ran down to the ring and threw Victoria back into the ring for her to take a beating. Beth put her up in the double wing slam and planted her to the mat before having a stare down with Mickie to play up their intra-brand feud. All feuds put aside for the good of the team, apparently.

WINNER: Kelly in 2:00. Match was pretty much inconsequential, but the crowd heat for this segment was pretty intense until Beth showed up and everyone was confused by her helping previous foes. (n/a)

2 -- BATISTA vs. MANU (w/Cody Rhodes)

A few seconds into the match, Randy Orton came out on stage for a closer look at the action. Manu dominated early on, working over Batista's left shoulder until Batista flung him head-first into the middle turnbuckle. Batista tried to follow with a corner smash, but Manu moved and Batista ate the turnbuckle. Manu followed with a big diving headbutt for a two count. Batista tried to come back with a Batistabomb, but Manu flipped out. Batista suddenly came back with a spear, then he finished off Manu with a Batistabomb in center ring for the win.

Afterward, Orton stared down into the ring to match eyes with Batista. Cody then feigned getting some of Batista again, but he opted to help Manu out of the ring. Batista then took the mic and said he's had to listen to Orton for three years. He's wanted to whoop him for three years, so Orton needs to stop worrying about John Cena and start worrying about him at Survivor Series this Sunday. Good intensity from Batista. Orton matched him with good facial expressions from the stage.

WINNER: Batista in 4:00. Nice match. It was abbreviated, but Manu had enough offense to show some hints of future success. Continuing the issues with Batista, Orton, and Priceless is good until Ted DiBiase returns. (*1/4)

3 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. SHAWN MICHAELS & REY MYSTERIO

Hot start to this one, then Rey wanted 619 on Morrison, but Miz tripped Rey from behind. Michaels then followed with a slingshot plancha on Miz before Rey splashed Morrison on the floor with a dive of his own. Babyfaces standing tall in the ring. Hot crowd. Let's grab a break.

Back from break, Miz was working over Michaels until Miz missed with a turnaround leg drop. Michaels then made the hot tag to Rey, who landed a seated smash on Miz before following with a head scissors. Rey knocked Morrison off the apron, but Miz recovered and tossed Rey hard into the ringpost to re-gain the advantage for his team. Rey then rolled through on a sunset flip to escape Miz, but Morrison tagged in to cut off Rey. They continued to work over Rey until Rey blocked Morrison's springboard swing kick with a dropkick of his own. Rey then tagged in Michaels and Miz came in to accept the house-cleaning. Michaels unloaded with slams before going up top and nailing the HBK elbow smash. He then tuned up the band and the crowd came to life.

Miz ducked the superkick, but Michaels recovered and left-arm clotheslined Miz for a two count. Rey then knocked Morrison to the outside before nailing Miz with the 619 right into Sweet Chin Music. Suddenly, Morrison smashed Michaels with Sweet Chin Music when Michaels turned around. Oh my what a sequence. Morrison then knocked Rey to the floor, Miz fell on top of Michaels, and Miz scored a pin on Michaels with an arm draped over the chest for the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 10:00. That was a heck of tag match with a nice finish to give Miz & Morrison a key victory. The finishing sequence was awesome and took advantage of the athleticism in the ring. (**1/2)

4 -- JBL & KANE vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG)

Lawler quipped that JBL told him the stock market hit rock bottom two weeks ago, but it's still dropping now. Quick three-minute match with Kane doing a lot of damage on JTG after knocking Shad off the apron. JBL then smashed JTG with the Clothesline from Hell and made the pin on Kane's behalf. Kane didn't appreciate JBL taking advantage of his work, but JBL chuckled and left the ring to convey he's captain of their Survivor Series team.

WINNERS: Kane & JBL in 3:00. Quick match to focus on Kane and JBL's "relationship." Not much happening here with Cryme Tyme, as they barely had any offense. (1/2*)

5 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. Intercontinental champion WILLIAM REGAL -- non-title match

The match spilled to the floor a few moments into the ring, then the ref applied a ten count while the men continued to brawl. Neither one paid attention, then the ref reached a ten count for a double count-out. Regal and Hardy paused to hear the decision rendered, then they continued to brawl on the outside until refs spilled out to the floor to break them up.

WINNERS: Double count-out in 2:00. Not exactly the best way to utilize Hardy in a brief match with no hype, but it was a good brawl for what it was worth to fill a segment. (n/a)

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- Lumberjack match

Punk was the first man thrown into the ring right in front of Cody and Manu, but Punk quickly hopped back into the ring. Orton then shouted down at them for not doing anything to help him out. Orton was suddenly dropkicked to the floor in front of Matt Hardy, who quickly rolled him back into the ring. Orton found himself in the same spot, then he wanted a piece of Hardy, but the ECW babyfaces threw him back into the ring. Punk then found himself in Mark Henry's grasp where Henry slammed him onto the floor and put him back in the ring for Orton. They panned back while Orton was working on Punk to reveal an odd trio of Shawn Michaels, D-Lo Brown, and Hacksaw Duggan with an odd look on his face.

At 9:00, Punk wanted the Go 2 Sleep, but Orton slipped out and slammed Punk hard to the mat. Orton then went into full stalker position for the RKO, but Punk dropkicked him out of the ring into the lap of the heel lumberjacks. Miz and Morrison helped Orton up, then Punk went up top and splashed Orton on the floor in the lap of the heel lumberjacks. Regal then distracted Punk, and Orton suddenly slipped into the ring to nail Punk with the RKO. He then made the cover on Punk for the win.

WINNER: Orton in 10:00. Nice match. Orton looked crisp back in the ring, albeit with a few headlocks mixed in for an old school feel. Lumberjacks didn't take away from the match, but didn't really enhance anything other than Regal's distraction giving Punk an "out" for the loss. Just fine, but a wash on selling the PPV on Sunday since the traditional Survivor Series teams weren't made crystal clear by show's end. It was more about the captains warring, not necessarily the participants on the teams having anything to battle over. (**)

After the match, Orton wanted to punt Punk in the head, but Batista jammed into the ring, nearly popped the ref, and speared Orton. JBL and Shawn Michaels then charged into the ring to brawl. Kane got involved, then Rey dropkicked Kane. Oh, I thought that was over. And now cue up the giant brawl in and out of the ring to close out the show with Cole excitedly trying to plug Survivor Series on Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2008, 09:23 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 11-18-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28019.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- D.J. GABRIEL (w/Alicia Fox) vs. SAL RINAURO

Okay, first blush on Gabriel here is that he looks like my boy Colt McCoy, quarterback of the Texas Longhorns. Maybe I'm just thinking football tonight. In any event, Gabriel bounced around the ring working over Sal before nailing a sweet European uppercut from the second rope for the quick win. Alicia then bounced into the ring afterward and they danced us out to the replay.

WINNER: Gabriel in 2:00. Edited nicely here based on what we received from the HOLT report last night, but I like this gimmick from Gabriel. It's a different type of effective annoying like Jack Swagger. Nice debut. (n/a)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- amateur wrestling match

Five minute round here with the amateur wrestling point system in play. Swagger had the headgear for this. Grisham wanted to know where the singlet is for Dreamer, who was in standard wrestling gear. Swagger scored a quick takedown, then another takedown for a quick 4-0 jump. Swagger with yet another takedown, then he got cocky and removed his headgear. Dreamer took advantage by taking down Swagger for a quick score.

Swagger was pissed, so he took Dreamer down and started to drive Dreamer's elbow into the back of his own head. Swagger let him up, then went into the referee position on all-fours on the mat. Dreamer decided he wanted no part of this, so he punted Swagger in the gut before nailing a DDT for a DQ. Afterward, Dreamer took the mic and offered no remorse for what happened by saying "Oops, my bad."

WINNER: Swagger via DQ in 4:00. Pretty much just continuing this feud to wherever it's leading to. Striker was awesome here calling this. It's tough keeping up with all of the great nuggets from Striker, so definitely watch this just for the commentary. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) & World tag team champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. MARK HENRY & CODY RHODES & IC champion WILLIAM REGAL

Let's start it off with Finlay vs. Regal in a European battle with both men having U.S. roots in the Atlanta area. The action quickly broke down just a minute into the match, then they had a big stand-off between both sides leading to break.

Back from break, Cody blocked a hip toss from Kofi and dragged him into the heel corner for Regal to get a piece of Kofi. Striker pointed out that Layla is not present tonight to be at Regal's side. Suddenly, Finlay and Regal were in the ring battling with European uppercuts. Regal got the best of Finlay here by shoving him off the top rope hard onto the floor. Back in the ring, Regal went back to work on Finlay before tagging in Cody to get some of Finlay. Meanwhile, Striker gave us a history lesson on Regal's previous wrestling names. So great.

Finlay started to break free, but a certain Mark Henry got a tag to quickly cut off Finlay and start taking him apart. Finlay fought back on Henry at 9:00, but Henry cut him off with a big boot before bringing Regal back in to work on Finlay. Cody then tagged back in and, of course, Cody lost control of the match on Finlay. Kofi then got the hot tag and smashed Cody with various leg attacks. Grisham dropped "Jamaican Me Crazy," then Kofi dropped the boom-boom leg drop on Cody for a two count when Regal broke it up.

Hardy, who thankfully took the match off here to rest his knee, then took Regal to the floor for a battle off camera. Henry made a blind tag for himself, then Henry and Kofi battled only to have Henry catch Kofi in mid-air for the big ol' World's Strongest Slam. Henry took the air out of the building and Kofi, then he made the cover for the win. Regal and Cody celebrated with Henry to close the show.

WINNERS: Team Henry in 12:00. Standard WWE multiple-persons tag match. Just fine to set up Survivor Series with Henry dominant. Too bad Kofi keeps getting the short-end of the stick here, as he was also quickly squashed by Henry on the 800 episode Raw a few weeks ago. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 22 2008, 12:24 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 11-20-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct post to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28068.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) & TANAHASHI vs. JAY LETHAL & CONSEQUENCES CREED

Val got on the apron less than 30 seconds into the match to distract Lethal, who took the bait, allowing Dutt to capitalize and attack Lethal from behind. Hey, look, ref Shane is back in the ring calling matches with no punishment or reprimand from TNA officials for placing himself in the middle of a title match last week. Finish was Creed blocking a reverse DDT from Dutt and nailing a powerslam for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Lethal & Creed in 2:00. I have no idea what the point of this match was. Nothing on the line, just some highspots, and no one will remember this in five minutes. (1/2*)

2 -- CHRISTY HEMME & SOJOURNA BOLT vs. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY w/Cute Kip)

Your basic two-minute divas tag match here with Kip running interference so Angelina could finish off Christy with a distraction from Kip.

WINNERS: BP in 2:00. Good to see Christy back in the ring, but this was too short and formula to mean much. (1/2*)

3 -- A.J. STYLES & SAMOA JOE vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN)

We got a solid minute here with the Guns charging Joe & Styles to start a brawl. Styles then hit a flip dive onto the Guns on the floor. Let's grab a break.

Back from break, Guns were working over Joe until Joe came back with a hard chop to the chest. Styles then took a tag and nailed the flying forearm smash on Shelley. He wanted the Clash, but Sabin stormed the ring and nailed a step-up kick on Styles. Joe then came in for a two-part combo kick and punch on Shelley to knock him to the floor. The action broke down with the Guns then hitting a double team combo on Styles. They wanted to finish off Styles, but Styles hit the Pele kick on Sabin before Joe turned him inside out with a clothesline. Styles then dropped Shelley with the Clash and scored the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Styles & Joe in 8:00. Quick battle without much time to establish a memorable story in the ring here. Good while it lasted. (*)

4 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. ERIC YOUNG -- Legends Title match

Booker dominated things here to start the match, then Young made his comeback. Booker tried to comeback with the axe kick, but Young ducked and hit the Death Valley Driver for a two count. Young was shocked to only get a two on his finisher. Sharmell then tripped Young from behind to distract Young, who turned around to take the axe kick from Booker. Booker with the cover for the win. ODB then jumped into the ring to check on Young.

WINNER: Booker in 5:00 to retain the Legends Title. Decent match. Young didn't have too much offense, but he had a convincing nearfall. Continue the storyline of the Young Lions being just a step behind the Mafia on the chess board.

5 -- KURT ANGLE & KEVIN NASH vs. MATT MORGAN & ABYSS

Here we go. An analogy for Morgan and Abyss: it's like Big Show and Kane - two goofs who don't mix well. Abyss wanted the Shock Treatment two minutes into the match, then he connected, and Angle kinda kicked out of a pin attempt with Abyss more or less pulling him up. Morgan then tagged in and the Blueprint entered the ring to miss with a clothesline before nailing the bicycle kick for a nearfall. Can Abyss and Morgan pull off the upset? Can Morgan find some trunks that fit? Will Abyss ever drop the janitor suit? Find out next!

One...two...again Kurt kicked out! Nash finally accepted a warm tag, bringing in the big man to battle against Morgan. Nash sniffed the air, slowly walked into the ring, tested the wind resistance, stared down Morgan, then went eye-to-eye. They had a brief conversation, then a few blows were exchanged. Morgan then fired off a few before Angle nailed Morgan in the knee from behind. Nash took advantage and started working over Morgan, focusing on the ribs and knees. Morgan tried to fight back, but Angle liked the knee attack again.

Suddenly, Beer Money came to ringside for a closer look at the action here. Abyss then accepted a tag and Nash waited for him to start cleaning house. Abyss the janitor cleaned house before splashing Nash with a big ol' running splash in the corner. He then dropped Nash with a sidewalk slam. The action predictably broke down, then Abyss dumped Angle to the floor. Morgan came in. Meanwhile, Abyss picked up a chat with Beer Money. All kinds of stuff happening here. Let's restore some order! Never mind, as James Storm smashed Abyss with a beer bottle while ref was distracted. Nash then hit a big boot on Abyss for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Nash & Angle in 10:00. This was so clunky, slow, and needed to be watched in fast-forward to be entertained. Just the same formula TNA TV match. Cue up the "Cross the Line" video package right after this talking about doing the same thing over and over again. (3/4*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 23 2008, 08:45 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-21-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003616.shtml)

1. Matt Hardy and R-Truth defeated Shelton Benjamin and Mark Henry (with Tony Atlas) in 12:31. Truth did his normal entrance and the crowd was not into it. Tazz plugged Team Batista vs. Team Orton. Truth and Benjamin worked together for awhile. Hardy tagged in and they knocked Benjamin to the floor with a double closeline.

Benjamin and Hardy were in the ring coming back from break. Henry tagged in and overpowered Hardy. Henry missed a butt splash in the corner and both men made tags. Truth went for an axe kick but Shelton countered with a Samoan Drop. Hardy took out Henry and Atlas, allowing Truth to hit the axe kick on Benjamin for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Solid match and a nice way to start the show. Nice to see Truth get a pinfall on Benjamin, so maybe that program will pick back up.

2. John Morrison and The Miz defeated Jesse and Festus in 2:43. Morrison hit a springboard Shining Wizard on Jesse coming out of an Irish whip. Festus tagged in and Morrison rang the bell. Festus went catatonic and Miz hit the Reality Check for the win. After the match, Morrison hit the Moonlight Drive on Jesse. They walked away with the ring bell...

Twill's Two Cents: Did it seriously take that long for someone to figure that out?

3. Jeff Hardy defeated Triple H in a non-title match to earn his way into the WWE Championship match at Survivor Series in 15:45. Hardy has black and blue face paint across his eyes that resembles Repo Man's mask. Hardy extended his hand and Triple H accepted, but Hardy kicked H in the stomach to gain the early advantage.

Hardy scored the first nearfall at the 1:20 mark. He missed the delayed corner dropkick and Triple H immediately went for the Pedigree. Hardy countered with a slingshot. He went up to the top but came down when H rose to his feet. Hardy jumped at Triple H, missed, and crashed to the floor.

Triple H was in control coming back from the break. He scored a nearfall at just past the seven minute mark. H was walking gingerly. Tazz predicted if Jeff won tonight, he would win the title on Sunday. Is that the kiss of death? Oh well; I'm still picking Hardy.

Triple H slowed down the pace with an abdominal stretch. His front leg was on the ground. For those people that remember Gorilla Monsoon, he always used to point out that when the front foot was off of the ground, the move was not affective. H scored another nearfall and has been on the offensive for several straight minutes.

Hardy fought back with a sitting jawbreaker. The crowd is absolutely dead. Hardy went for a move but Triple H hit a Double A Spinebuster. Hardy fought out of the Pedigree for the second time. Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind. He went to the other corner and hit it again for a long two count. Hardy scored a few more nearfalls.

Hardy whipped Triple H into the corner and H fell to the outside. Hardy followed him out and they were both back in the ring quickly. Hardy went for and missed the Swanton Bomb. Vladimir Kozlov came to the ring and Triple H knocked him off of the apron. Hardy then hit a somersault plancha on Kozlov. H tried to bring Hardy back into the ring and Hardy rolled him up for the win...

After the match, H and Hardy shook hands, but Kozlov attacked both of them. He impressively left both men lying in the ring...

Twill's Two Cents: Very good match between Hardy and Triple H. I would have liked to have seen it with a hotter crowd and I would have liked to have seen Hardy give a promo about how he has not been able to beat Triple H. Making Kozlov look strong after the match was smart booking. I liked the handshake between Hardy and Triple H because Triple H actually should respect and appreciate Hardy's new attitude.

4. The Brian Kendrick and Ezekiel Jackson defeated Carlito and Primo Colon in a non-title match in 3:45. Hurricane Helms popped up and asked Kendrick if Koko B. Ware knew he was doing the bird. Kendrick began the match but quickly tagged in Zeke, who rolled right through Carlito.

Kendrick tagged in and hit some stiff kicks and knees on Carlito. Primo tagged in and did what he does best, including hitting a very impressive Monkey Flip (aided by Kendrick getting some air). Jackson tagged himself in and hit his finisher on Primo for the clean win...

Twill's Two Cents: Would it have killed them to give these four ten or eleven minutes?

5. James Mason defeated MVP in 1:11. MVP was about to pin Mason but The Great Khali came out to ringside. Mason rolled up MVP for the win. After the match, Helms popped up and said he was running out of things to say...

Twill's Two Cents: Okay, can we end this now?

6. The Bella Twins defeated Victoria and Natalya in 3:43. After some serviceable action, Brie and Nikki pulled the switcharoo, allowing one of them to roll Victoria up for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Decent match; hopefully they will focus on this division.

The Undertaker came out to the ring and gave his usual promo. There was a casket in the ring. Show, Chavo, and Vickie Guerrero came out to the ring. The lights went out and Taker placed Vickie in the casket. Show was scared to death.

Show threw Chavo into the ring to distract Taker. He then pulled Vickie out of the casket and both of them acted as if they had the cooties. Taker gave Chavo a tombstone and placed him in the casket as Show and Vickie retreated...

Twill's Two Cents: Does anyone else find a bit inappropriate that both Vickie and Chavo were in that casket so close to the anniversary of Eddie dying? The show was definitely heavy on in-ring work tonight.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 24 2008, 01:51 pm
WWE Survivor Series PPV Results: 11-23-08

Ongoing results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real time report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_28128.shtml). To view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8388 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2627649&postcount=8388) and posts thereafter.

1 -- TEAM MICHAELS - SHAWN MICHAELS & CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) & REY MYSTERIO & GREAT KHALI (w/Singh) vs. TEAM JBL - JBL & THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & KANE & MVP
WINNERS: Team Michaels in 18:00. Basic opening match to get the babyfaces off on the right foot tonight. Not a whole lot going on here. (**1/4)
Order of elimination:
JTG
MVP
Kane
Shad
The Miz
JBL
Morrison
HBK, Khali and Rey survived.

2 -- SMACKDOWN DIVAS - Divas champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & MARYSE & VICTORIA & NATALYA & MARIA vs. RAW DIVAS - Women's champion BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella) & MICKIE JAMES & CANDICE MICHELLE & JILLIAN HALL & KELLY KELLY
WINNER: Team Beth in 10:00. That was pretty rough. Like an old school throwaway WWE cruiserweight battle royale of doom match with 18 pins in eight minutes. Just unrealistic pinfalls coupled with not-well-choreographed sequences. Beth was clearly the top diva in the ring tonight. (1/2*)
Order of elimination:
Victoria
Kelly
Michelle
Mickie
Natalya
Jillian
Maria
Maryse
Survivors: Beth Phoenix and Candice Michelle

3 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BIG SHOW -- Casket match
WINNER: Taker in 13:00. My goodness, that was rough. But, as always in life, remember to have a back-up casket just in case. (3/4*)

4 -- TEAM BATISTA - BATISTA & K-TRUTH & ECW champion MATT HARDY & World tag team champions KOFI KINGSTON & C.M. PUNK vs. TEAM ORTON - RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES (w/Manu) & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN & IC champion WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla)
WINNERS: Team Orton in 17:00. Another hit-or-miss match before getting down to business at the end. Orton has a certain quality to him right now where fans are gravitating toward him. His character is fresh after being away from the ring for a while and fans are seeing something new to invest in. Good finish. (**1/2)
Order of elimination:
Regal
R-Truth
Kofi
Punk
Matt Hardy
Sheldon
Mark Henry
Batista
Survivors: Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton

5 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. VLADIMIR KOSLOV -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Edge in 14:00 to capture the WWE Title. Crowd popped huge for Edge's title victory because they just wanted to see anything but what was happening in the ring. Crazy finish featuring low IQ mid-match stipulation changes, but the advertised Jeff Hardy appearance and an unexpected bombshell appearance from Edge. Wash it out. Edge, with a great new look, is new champ. Hunter back on the chase. (**)

6 -- World Hvt. champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. JOHN CENA -- World Title match
WINNER: Cena in 21:00 to capture the WWE Title. When ratings are dipping below 3.0, you pull the trigger on doing something new with Cena running the Raw brand. We'll see if they can bolster ratings over the long-haul, more than just tomorrow night to pop a quick rating with people tuning in to see how Survivor Series played out. Cena back on TV to set up a re-match with Jericho could deliver the quality TV that WWE needs on a weekly basis Monday nights. Match itself was good, but not great. Memorable, but for the title change, not necessarily the match. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 26 2008, 10:09 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-24-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28156.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHAWN MICHAELS & REY MYSTERIO vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

The match started, then they suddenly cut elsewhere where JBL sat down in his limo and told the driver to start driving. JBL Limo Cam revealed JBL telling the driver to take him to ringside now. A few moments later, JBL's music hit, then JBL emerged ringside while Morrison worked over Michaels and his injured eye.

Back from break, Rey was KO'ed on the floor while JBL was still watching from the stage. Michaels then looked for a tag to Rey, but Rey was still out cold on the floor. Rey finally came to at 7:00 and he accepted a tag from Michaels before beginning his "swashbuckling style" offense that Cole loves so dearly. Rey then hit a springboard splash on Miz before setting up the 619 and connecting. Rey went up top to finish the job, but Morrison grabbed his leg. Michaels then ran over to yank Morrison on the floor, setting up a battle. Back in the ring, Rey caught Miz up top and he nailed a sunset flip powerbomb on Miz for the win.

Afterward, Morrison grabbed Rey and tossed him into the ringpost for a post-match attack. Morrison then went after Michaels and completely snapped on Michaels with forearms and haymakers. JBL then entered the ring while Morrison continued to pound on Michaels before JBL stepped into the ring. He measured Michaels for a kick to the head, but then he turned to Morrison and gave him a huge boot to the face. Fans popped for that. Michaels had no idea what to make of it. Apparently JBL didn't like being on the losing team at Survivor Series.

WINNERS: Rey & Michaels in 10:00. Formula tag match. Great intensity from Morrison after the match. This has been quite an interesting start to the show. Fortunately, JBL explained himself afterward... (*1/2)

2 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. KANE -- #1 Contender tournament first round match

Patterson plugged the IC Title DVD coming out tomorrow as one of the best DVDs WWE has ever produced. Meanwhile, Kane worked over Kofi to start things off. Kane teased the chokeslam at 2:00, but Kofi knocked him to the floor and hit a big splash on the floor. Both men came up hurting, though, then Kane yanked Kofi head-first into the ringpost. Kane then wrapped Kofi around the ringpost and the ref counted to five, but Kane wouldn't break the hold. Ref Armstrong then DQ'ed Kane, giving Kofi a win. Great, a DQ finish in the first tournament match.

Afterward, Kane brought the ring steps into the ring. He waited for Kofi to get up, then Kane smashed him in the face with the ring steps. Where's C.M. Punk? Ya know, the tag champion with Kofi? Stephanie McMahon then walked out on stage and gave Kane an option for next week: a match against John Cena. So, you're rewarded for doing bad on this show? Kane smiled and Stephanie smiled. Everyone's happy.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston via DQ in 3:00. A rather poor start to the tournament with the finish and a quick three-minute match. Stephanie's random appearance was quite random. (1/2*)

3 -- BATISTA vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. RANDY ORTON -- #1 Contender match to World Hvt. Title

Each man had brief control early on, then Jericho missed with a Lionsault on Orton. Orton then got up and stalked Jericho for the RKO, but they cut to break for a cliffhanger...

Back from break, they showed a clip from during the commercial break of Batista yanking Orton out of the ring before Orton could strike on Jericho. Orton and Jericho then started to double-team Batista, but the snake eventually turned on the lion. Meanwhile, the animal made his comeback with a clothesline on the snake and a Black Hole Slam on the lion. Okay, I'll stop.

Batista fired off a clothesline on Orton before landing a powerslam for a two count. Batista then teased the Batistabomb on Jericho, but Jericho blocked, kicked Batista, and slapped on the Walls of Jericho in center ring. Batista fought it, then Orton broke up the hold. Orton stalked Batista, then he nailed the fallaway backbreaker before going to the ground to slither and slide and stalk Batista for the RKO. Batista slowly made his way to his knees, then Orton backed up and went for the punt, except Batista saw it coming and he nailed a spear. Batista had the cover, but Jericho kicked Batista in the head and Jericho covered Orton for the win.

WINNER: Jericho in 12:00 to become #1 contender. Nice win for Jericho to take advantage of his right place, right time persona. It continues Batista's frustrating journey back to the World Title, which makes for a good storyline. Orton had enough camera time on offense to remain credible despite taking the loss. Good match. (**1/4)

4 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix) vs. GOLDUST

Santino slapped Goldust across the chest, then he comically wiped his hands from the gross feeling on his hands. Goldust did his mannerisms toward Santino, then toward Beth, setting off Santino for trying to kiss his girlfriend. Goldust fired off a round of clotheslines while Beth tried to shout encouragement, then Goldust busted out a spinning facebuster suplex for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Goldust in 3:00. Goldust lowered the bar for his return last month when he looked way out of shape, so he looked halfway impressive here by sheer comparison. Still, this is going nowhere if it's merely Goldust re-living an old gimmick that's as stale and rehashed as the current WWE TV formula. (1/2*)

5 -- C.M. PUNK vs. SNITSKY -- #1 Contender tournament first round match

Regal, on commentary, said he hopes Punk wins this tournament because he believes they're capable of a feud for the ages. In the ring, Snitsky instantly targeted Punk's lower back. Lawler prompted a conversation with Regal about "dreadful dental hygiene" from some of his fellow Englishman. Snitsky had Punk's back twisted forever, then Punk suddenly caught Snitsky on his shoulders and nailed the Go 2 Sleep on Snitsky. He made the cover for the win. Afterward, Regal gave Punk a light golf clap while Punk nodded in his direction. Regal stood up a little to continue his applause, then Punk slipped through the ring to pick up the conversation with Regal.

WINNER: Punk in 5:00. Rough match with Snitsky slowing things down in classic Koslov fashion. Just not interesting to watch, unfortunately, but Regal provided good commentary to balance the in-ring work from Snitsky. (3/4*)

6 -- CANDICE MICHELLE & MELINA & MICKIE JAMES vs. Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & KATIE LEA & JILLIAN HALL

Slow pace here, then Melina took a hot tag and brought some energy to the match. Melina busted out a sick modified Canadian Destroyer on Katie, then Beth broke up the pin. The action broke down, then Melina finished off Katie with a leg sweep splits drop for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Melina in 3:00. Well, Melina was quite impressive busting out that modified Destroyer. Otherwise, this was completely forgettable. (1/2*)

Cena confronts Jericho at the conclusion of the show and basically beats the holy crap out of him.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 26 2008, 11:08 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 11-25-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28190.shtml)

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER -- Extreme Rules match

Things started with a nose-to-nose square-off before Dreamer went to the classic Kendo stick weaponry on Swagger. Dreamer then picked up a chair and introduced Swagger to a scoop slam/chair combo. Swagger quickly bailed to the floor for a break and a breather, while Matt Striker referenced Colin Delaney as being a previous victim of the ER match. Swagger then took control with a whip into the ringpost that knocked Dreamer senseless. Back in the ring, Swagger snapped off a Northern Lights Suplex for a nearfall, then he shoved Dreamer head-first into a steel chair wedged into the second turnbuckle. Let's grab a break.

Back from break, Swagger was on the mat taunting Dreamer, who was trying to recover from a trashcan blow shot. Swagger then applied several submission holds utilizing a chair before Dreamer managed to retrieve a Kendo stick mid-hold to smack Swagger across the back. He then busted out a trashcan lid shot on Swagger to subdue Swag momentarily. Dreamer then grappled Swagger with a kendo stick below Swagger's...um...external member...but Swagger blocked a pumphandle slam and smashed Dreamer in the face.

Enter the trashcan and Striker with the Duke the Dumpster Droese reference prior to Swagger missing a Vader Bomb from the second rope and eating the can. Dreamer then hung Swagger upside down in the corner before setting him up for a surfboard E-C-W smash. Instead of grabbing a pin, Dreamer went under the ring and retrieved a table. Swagger used the time to recover and he executed a suplex for a nearfall. Swagger then tried to put Dreamer through the table, but Dreamer blocked with a DDT for a close two count.

Dreamer tried to follow with a can shot, but Swagger turned it into a drop toehold into the seat of a chair. Swagger then picked up Dreamer and gave him the gutwrench powerbomb hard through the table in center ring. Swagger made the cover for the win. Welcome to the big show big man. "Swagger has officially arrived," Striker said.

WINNER: Swagger in 12:00. Heck of a battle. Concern over the brutal damage each man took in this one, but Swagger had a star-making performance tonight in terms of how he carried himself with intensity and well, swagger. Swagger made himself right there. (***)

2 -- D.J. GABRIEL (w/Alicia Fox) vs. SOME GUY

Striker named the opponent as Jared something or another. Gabriel with a hip toss, then a spinning backhand chop into a standing dropkick. Gabriel busted out Claudio Castagnoli's big swing that sent Jared flying to the outside, then he settled into a neck vice on the mat. Gabriel eventually finished off the young man in the black trunks with a leaping European uppercut from the second rope for the pin.

Post-match: Grisham entered the ring to interview Gabriel and Alicia. He asked Alicia about what happened on Smackdown earlier this year when she was the wedding planner. She nervously said she moved on, then looked up some contacts to get them booked on ECW. They have a connection. A passion. A love for music! Gabriel said they share a passion for dancing and having fun. Most of all, a passion for winning. She excitedly clapped her hands.

WINNER: Gabriel in 3:00. Good progression in the ring. Tons of work needed on the mic. Without trying to be over-critical, that really was not ready for prime time. (1/2*)

3 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle)

A few minutes into the match, Henry retrieved Finlay's shillelagh and surveyed the object before tossing it out of the ring toward the feet of the timekeeper. Finlay said that's fine and went on the attack, but Henry snapped off a powerslam. He missed with the big splash (has he ever nailed that thing during a match?) before rolling to the outside to chase Hornswoggle. Finlay tried to capitalize, but Henry caught him in mid-air and rammed him back-first into the ring apron. This was followed by a scoop slam on the floor and a break...

Back from break, Henry was still in control on Finlay. Finlay then tried to come back with a double-foot dropkick to the knees, but Henry came back with a hard Irish whip into the corner before nailing a big corner splash. Henry had a good, jovial laugh before kicking Finlay over the top rope with a boot to the face. Atlas had enough of Hornswoggle, so he took Horny into the ring. They tried to run interference, but Finlay retrieved a second shillelagh and snuck into the ring to nail Henry in the knees. Things totally broke down, then Finlay smashed Atlas on the floor with his shillelagh. Henry and Atlas tried to take Hornswoggle away, but Finlay smashed them with the shillelagh again. The show then concluded with Striker plugging Cha$e, Finlay and Hornswoggle on one side of the ramp, and Henry and Atlas on the other side all catching their breath. That's all she wrote.

WINNER: No One in 13:00. Well, that was a unique way to close the show. Unique as in cop-out finish. WWE obviously didn't want either man to lose here, but simply ending the show with everyone standing on the floor with their hands on their hips with a plug for the next show on Sci-Fi was about as lame as it gets. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 29 2008, 08:52 am
TNA Impact! Results: 11-27-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28234.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results with the exception of the final segment.

1 -- SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) vs. HERNANDEZ vs. RHINO -- Turkey Match Qualifier

Val got a ****** makeover to look more heelish and less wholesome. Rhino finished Dutt with a Gore.

WINNER: Rhino in 3:00.


2 -- CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. CUTE KIP vs. ALEX SHELLEY - Turkey Match Qualifier

As Creed came out, West and Tenay raved about his enthusiasm and positive attitude. Shelley won with a leverage pin on Creed. Let's see. Creed is one of the members of the Front Line top babyface group who needs a real credibility boost since he's so new, whereas Kip is a silly comedy act that's aging out of a roster spot sooner than later, but he gets exempt from doing the job. Why? Because ten years ago he meant something, or because since 1998 he's been a huge disappointment in every situation he's been put in and failed to get over?

WINNER: Shelley in 4:00.

3 -- JIMMY RAVE vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. MATT MORGAN - Turkey Match Qualifier

Tenay talked about "The Governor" coming to Impact next week. They wouldn't say "Alaska Governor" or "Palin," or that'd cross into blatant false advertising instead of innocent playful deception. After working together early, Bashir put a sleeper on Rave. Morga gave both a fallaway slam, then began yelling like Goldberg as he annoyingly does after almost every one of his big moves (and sometimes small moves). He gave Rave a big boot, but Bashir ducked a big boot from Morgan, who flew over the top rope to the floor. Bashir gave Rave a WMDDT finisher for the win. Referee Shane Sewell was hesitant to raise Bashir's arm afterward.

WINNER: Bashir in 3:00. It's sadly amazing to see a heel win a match without breaking rules or interference.

4 -- RAIESHA SAEED (w/Rhaka Kahn, Awesome Kong) vs. CHRISTY HEMME

In the end, Christy went for a flying legdrop, but missed. Saeed lifted her for a powerbomb, but Christy rolled through for the leverage pin. Kong beat up Christy in the midst of her celebration. Khan joined in, but Christy slid under the bottom rope and retreated to the back.

WINNER: Christy Hemme in 4:00.

5 -- RHINO vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. ALEX SHELLEY

Borash did ring introductions to give the Turkey Bowl a big match feel. The ref held up the turkey suit the loser must wear. A minute into the match, they cut to a break.

Back from the break, Bashir set up a top rope move, but Shelley pushed him off into an inverted atomic drop. A rested Rhino nailed Shelley with a Gore for the win.

WINNER: Rhino in 8:00 to win $25,000.

Team 3D: Joining the MEM or The Frontline...

-Styles, Joe, and Rhino stood center ring. The MEM then walked out. Angle told Styles, "There you go again, A.J. A young, smug punk making another demand to a veteran." He said if they want Brother Ray and Brother Devon, they got them. He introduced then as the latest members of the MEM. The MEM music played. The crowd booed. And out walked Ray and Devon in the suit. The MEM smiled and applauded. Ray said they gave this a lot of thought. He said they've come to the conclusion that the Main Event Mafia "are right." He said they also came to the conclusion that the Frontline are right. He said both sides have a lot of merit. He said Angle said something to them that struck a nerve and got them thinking. He said Angle is a smart man. He said he Angle told them to think about their future as a team and in "this business." He said the Mafia may grant them their future. He said their legacy is very important to them. He said they are the 20-time World Tag Team Champions and the most decorated team of all time. He wanted to know how they want to be remembered. He said they want to be remembered as one of the greatest teams, "just like the Road Warriors." He said they want to be remembered in the same breath as the Steiner Brothers. And even Harlem Heat. Ray said they want to be remembered as two hard-working guys who always gave it their all and have entertained the people all over the world, a family-man and a father. Two men who helped build one of the most legendary companies of all-time, ECW. "Or, do we want to be remembered as a part of the greatest collection of world champions that has ever walked God's green earth." He said the MEM is now complete because they have the greatest tag team. They are now the Magnificent Seven. He said the Frontline doesn't understand that the Mafia offers power and money and they have brains. He said they're "all about fighting and all guts and all balls." He said he wants to tell them that before the inevitable happens, guts and balls is good, "and if being part of the Front Line is wrong, then I don't want to be right." He opened up his jacket and Styles pulled out a weapon. Team 3D joined Styles, Rhino, and Joe in beating MEM out of the ring. Ray called for a table. Styles and Joe got a table. Tenay said we now know that Team 3D will be the tag partners of Styles & Joe at Final Resolution. They set up a table mid-ring. Sting pulled Angle by his leg out of the ring to safety. The newly strengthened Front Line stood strong together in the ring as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 30 2008, 07:34 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-28-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete results). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1003693.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Jeff Hardy defeated The Brian Kendrick w/Ezekiel Jackson at 12:13 in a Beat the Clock Match. TBK slipped out of the ring early, hiding behind Zeke and running the time up. Back in the ring, it was all Hardy on offense, displaying his new aggressive style. Most of the makeup was gone by the 2:00 mark, making Hardy look even worse. TBK slipped out again at the 3:20 mark but turned his back to the ring. Hardy slid out and hit TBK beside Zeke who did nothing. Hardy threw TBK back in the ring. He climbed the rope for the Whisper in the Wind but TBK hit his feet to cause Jeff to fall to the top turnbuckle. TBK hit a neck breaker and celebrated into commercial…

Back from commercial at 7:34 according to the completely reliable WWE timer. A commercial replay showed TBK kicking Hardy in the back of the head for a two count. TBK locked in a head rest hold that Hardy reversed into a small package for a near fall. Hardy sold the head injury and TBK regained control and locked in another rest hold. Hardy fought out and tied TBK in the Tree of Woe and hit his sitdown corner dropkick for two. Hardy teased the Twist of Fate but TBK pushed him off. Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind instead. TBK placed his leg on the ropes at two and Zeke tried to check on him. Hardy hit a baseball slide into TBK who crashed into Zeke. Hardy hit a fall away powerbomb followed by the Swanton for the win…

Shore’s Slant: Fair TV match for Kendrick and Hardy. Nice to see Zeke really didn’t play a factor in this. I hope Matt doesn’t run around for twelve minutes.

2. Maryse, Natalya, and Victoria defeated Brie and Nikki Bella and Michelle McCool in 4:13. Victoria and McCool started. McCool tagged in a twin quickly and then the other twin tagged in and Victoria took control. The heels worked on the Bella twin (Brie I think). McCool got the hot tag and had a flurry of offense on Maryse. McCool covered but Victoria broke it up. McCool had another pin hooked in but the ref was distracted by Victoria and a twin fighting. McCool got the ref but turned into a Maryse clothesline. Maryse teased a DDT but McCool reversed into an arm bar. She held Maryse for the other twin but the twin hit McCool by mistake. Maryse covered for the win. Post match, McCool and the twins argued. Maria ran out and tried to calm McCool but McCool pushed Maria to the mat. She left as the twins and Maria looked confused and hurt.

Shore’s Slant: You know, this match wasn’t terrible considering the level of Diva’s matches we have seen recently. McCool needs to go ahead and turn and stop teasing it. If Maria and the Bella Twins need to be comforted, I’m here.

3. Vladimir Kozlov fought Matt Hardy to a no contest in a Beat the Clock match. During Hardy’s intro the Hurrapop announced he would be returning to Smackdown next week. I don’t know if this will be the end of the Hurrapop, but if it is, there is a Santa Claus cause that’s what I asked for. Hardy actually took control at first in the match, cinching in a head lock for a few minutes and then running around the outside of the ring for almost a minute. Hardy continued to play cat and mouse with Kozlov, grabbing the ropes and running from lockups and any knockdown. The ref showed Kozlov the clock and his eyes bugged out as he realized this was a timed exercise. He chased Hardy until they made it back to the ring. Hardy nit Kozlov but Kozlov caught his next punch, hooking the arms for the triple headbut. He kicked Hardy down who stood up in the corner and hit a stiff kick as Kozlov ran in…

Back from commercial at 3:38 remaining and Kozlov was still in control. Hardy tried a cross body off the ropes but Kozlov caught him and hit a fall away slam. He placed Hardy across the top turnbuckle and tried to do a super fall away slam but fell from the bottom rope in a botched spot. He did manage to get Hardy over in the slam showing his pure power. With 0:54 left, Hardy hit a side effect out of nowhere and kicked Kozlov out of the ring. Kozlov made it back in the ring. Hardy teased the Twist of Fate but Kozlov pushed him off and out of the ring. Hardy hung outside the ring as time expired…

Backstage, Jeff Hardy was shown in the locker room watching on a monitor. He nodded and turned around to find Triple H. They stood face to face for almost half a minute without saying a word…

Shore’s Slant: OK match for these two. Kozlov has lost a lot of luster with me now that he’s in the main event matches. He looked much better with the midcarders. It will be interesting to see how he’s used from here on out. Did anyone know that Triple H could be on TV for more than 15 seconds and not speak? Color me surprised.

4. Jesse and Festus defeated John Morrison and The Miz in 5:00. Miz and Jesse started out so Jesse wore the *** beating early this week. The heels worked on Jesse for a while. Jesse got the hot tag to Festus as Miz got one to Morrison. Morrison was drove out of the ring and he went and rung the bell. As he made his way back to the ring, Jesse clotheslined him and got the bell. He rolled Morrison back in the ring and rung the bell. Festus beat on Morrison but Miz ran over and attacked Jesse. He rung the bell and Morrison rolled out of the ring and he and Miz worked on Jesse. At some point, the ref DQ’ed Miz and Morrison.

Post match, Miz and Morrison climbed in the ring with the bell. Miz got right in Festus’s face and Morrison rang the bell. Miz ran and just as Festus was about to catch him, he rang it again. Morrison laughed and Miz yanked the bell out of his hand and rung it. Festus chased Morrison and Miz rang it just before he caught Morriosn. Miz and Morrison seemed to argue for a second but then they moved Festus to the center of the ring. Miz stood behind him with his head down. Morrison rang the bell and as Festus came to life, Miz mocked him. Morrison quickly rang the bell and Festus and Miz went catatonic. This went on for a while until Miz and Morrison started fighting over the bell. Jess ran in but was knocked out by Morriosn with the bell. Miz had the hammer and dropped it on the bell. Festus came alive and cleaned house…

Shore’s Slant: ENOUGH with the bell gimmick. Enough, Enough, Enough.

5. Triple H defeated Shelton Benjamin in a beat the clock match. Triple H immediately went for a Pedigree but Benjamin escaped. A couple of moves later, Hunter tried again but Benjamin escaped to the outside. Triple H followed and threw Benjamin back in. Benjamin caught Hunter coming back in but Hunter quickly countered. He tried for a Pedigree again but Benjamin countered into a backdrop but Hunter countered that into a Sunset Flip for a two count. Hunter locked in a crossface for about a minute and a half before Benjamin made the ropes. Both men stood and Benjamin hit a neckbreaker as the show went to the final commercial…

Back with 5:28 remaining and Hunter was in control. Shelton hit a couple of moves but with 4:00 left, Triple H came alive and hit the high knee and face buster on Benjamin who bailed outside the ring. Hunter threw him back in the ring but Benjamin rolled out the other side. Hunter followed and threw Benjamin into JR’s lap. He threw Benjamin back in the ring but he rolled out the other side again. Hunter followed and slammed Benjamin’s head on the steps. Benjamin jumped up and came off the ropes but Hunter hit the Double A spinebuster. Benjamin backdropped Hunter out of the Pedigree attempt and tried to climb out of the ring. The two men fought at the ropes and referee Mike Chioda got knocked down. Hunter hit the Pedigree Chioda was still down. Hunter went over and woke up Chioda who crawled over, checked the clock about thirty times and then started to count. He hit three as the horn sounded.

Chioda slowly got up and raised Hunter’s hand. He celebrated and his music played. Referee Charles Robinson ran down and started talking to Chioda. They argued for a moment and a replay showed that the three count and time expiration happened at exactly the same time. Triple H and Jeff Hardy were announced to have tied. Hardy’s music hit and he came to the ring wearing a hoodie with the hood on. He climbed in the ring and he and Triple H looked at each other while the refs stood in-between them…

Shore’s Slant: Well that sucked. The match was entertaining, not great, but it kept my attention. The ending was shitty, though I will admit, I never considered a tie. Has this ever happened before in these matches? As a rule I hate these beat the clock matches because of the stalling, but these weren’t bad. I guess we have another Triple Threat match at Armageddon. Forgive me if I don’t show my excitement. Overall, a fair show. I hope next week’s doesn’t have the dead crowd that England gave us with the second taped show. Thanks for reading!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 02 2008, 04:05 pm
WWE RAW Results: 12-1-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28284.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- World tag team champions C.M. PUNK & KOFI KINGSTON vs. MANU & CODY RHODES -- non-title match

A little back and forth to start, then Kofi went for a slingshot splash on the outside on Cody. He connected, then Manu attacked him from behind to give Priceless the advantage heading to break.

Back from break, Punk was in control on Cody. Wow, what a reverse with the heels in control into the break and the babyfaces in control out of the break. That didn't last long, though, a Manu quickly took control on Punk at 6:00 with a body blow and leaping headbutt. Cody then tagged in and slapped on a bow-and-arrow-like submission on Punk before knocking him down again with a clothesline. The heels continued to corner Punk, who tried to escape with body strikes.

Punk eventually scored with a knee to the nose on Cody before tagging into Kofi, who came in like a house of fire. Kofi delivered a Russian legsweep on Cody, then he marched around the ring before delivering the boom-boom leg drop for a nearfall when Manu broke up the pin. Punk came in, though, and dropped Manu with a bulldog. Kofi then avoided a victory roll attempt and nailed Cody with the Jamaican buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. Afterward, they showed Cody and Manu recovering on stage while Orton looked on backstage.

WINNERS: Punk & Kingston in 12:00. Ah, that was nice to see Kingston actually score a pin for once. I nearly forgot what his finishing move was because it had been so long since he won a match with a pinfall. Meanwhile, Cody and Manu get to regroup with Orton to continue that program. Fine match. Not great, but serviceable. (*3/4)

2 -- MELINA vs. JILLIAN HALL

Jillian quickly knocked Melina to the outside while Santino explained they're out here scouting new talent for Beth. Suddenly, the screen went blank then back to the ring where Jillian worked on Melina with a mat hold and screamed in her ear. Jillian then tried a corner handstand, but Melina blocked and nailed the "Last Call" modified Canadian Destroyer on Jillian for the win.

Afterward, Santino said he wasn't impressed. He tried to escort Beth out of the ringside area, but Melina got on the mic and said she's going to take Beth's most precious accessory, the Women's Title. Santino held Beth back, then took the lead on responding. After calling her Melanie, Santino said she thinks she's so hot to trot with her little entrance. Santino said he's even going to do the entrance himself.

Beth tried to hold him back, but Santino insisted. He hitched up his britches, then got one leg up on the apron. Hitch up the britches again. He then got the other leg up just a touch on the apron before falling down flat on his back in sheer pain. He instantly held his groin. Santino shook and shook on the floor while Melina tried not to crack up laughing. "Is there a Slammy for goof of the year?" Cole asked. Won't go there on Cole. Beth then helped Santino up and asked why, oh why did he injure himself there? Santino shaking was moment of the year. So great.

WINNER: Melina in 3:00. Post-match was great and even enhanced the future Beth vs. Melina feud for the Women's Title. (3/4*)

3 -- BATISTA vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

The bell sounded, then Dolph wanted a handshake. Batista smiled, then Dolph re-introduced himself and slapped Batista across the face. Batista was ready to rip his head off, but Dolph bailed to the outside several times to avoid Batista. Dolph then waited for Batista to lose his cool and he nailed an awesome step-up enziguiri kick. Batista was briefly stunned before taking Dolph back into the ring. Suddenly, Dolph executed a leaping neckbreaker for a nearfall. Nice.

Batista then tried a spear, but Dolph moved and nailed a kick to the left knee. Dolph introduced himself to Batista again, then he went to the second rope, but Batista caught him in mid-air for a spinebuster. Batista had enough and wanted to end it. This time, Dolph couldn't escape the Batistabomb, giving Batista the pin and the win.

WINNER: Batista in 4:00. Nice showing from Dolph, who made the most of his opportunity to rub shoulders with Batista and get in some offense. Well done. (*)

4 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) -- #1 Contender to the IC Title tournament first round match

Back and forth they went to start things off while Cole and Lawler recapped everything happening in WWE Storyline Land. Finlay caught Morrison with a series of hard clotheslines at 3:00, then he landed a big butt seated splash for a nearfall.

Finlay clotheslined Morrison over the top rope to the floor, then Hornswoggle approached Morrison, but Morrison shoved Horny down to the floor. Finlay became concerned, allowing Morrison to kick Finlay head-first into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Finlay sold a head injury that Morrison exploited with the springboard enziguiri kick on Finlay for the pin and the win. Afterward, Hornswoggle was distraught over how things went down.

WINNER: Morrison in 4:00 to advance in the tournament. Not a whole lot to this one. Audience wasn't particularly receptive for the ECW match. Still no resolution on the Rey-Miz issue in the tournament. (*)

5 -- THE MIZ vs. REY MYSTERIO -- #1 Contender to the IC Title tournament first round match

Suddenly, Rey busted out the 619 less than 20 seconds into the match. He then went up top for the finishing dive, but Miz rolled out of the way. Miz then went on the offensive trying to score a pin working on the elbow, but Rey kicked out of several pin attempts. Miz eventually went for the Reality Check, but Rey blocked and rolled up Rey with one good arm to score a pin for the win. Afterward, Miz was left very confused by how he lost this one.

WINNER: Rey in 3:00 to advance in the tournament. So now it's Kingston vs. Rey and Morrison vs. Punk in the semi-finals of the tournament. Match was pretty rushed and didn't really take advantage of the Rey injury for maximum effect of building heat for a "spirited comeback."

6 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. KANE -- non-title match

They cut out the babyface shine to start things off and went right to Kane dominating Cena. That's what happens when the bell sounds two minutes before the top of the hour. Fans had the dueling chant of "Let's go Cena" vs. "Cena sucks."

Cena teased an FU at the top of the hour, but Kane cut him off and settled into more matwork focusing on the surgically-repaired neck. Kane then inexplicably went up top and Cena ducked before slapping on the STFU in center ring. Suddenly, Chris Jericho stormed ringside so Cena released the hold and attacked Jericho on the outside. Kane then used the distraction to set up Cena for a chokeslam in center ring, but Cena slipped out and lifted Kane up for the FU. He connected, then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Cena in 5:00. Basic TV match to set up the post-match. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 04 2008, 06:09 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 12-2-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28314.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RICKY ORTIZ vs. JACK SWAGGER -- #1 Contender match

Grisham took a moment to point out that ECW is settling the #1 Contender in the ring rather than by doing a bunch of talking like the college football BCS system. Oh, Todd, how you have become my favorite announcer. Swagger knocked Ortiz out of the ring at 2:00, then they cut to break with Ortiz looking to regroup.

They returned from break with Swagger working over Ortiz in the corner. Matt Striker really really stretched to put Ortiz in the same sentence as John Cena, saying Cena lost his first WWE match and can never claim to have ever been undefeated like Ortiz can. Back to the ring where Ortiz landed a series of weak-looking right hand punches before leaving a lot of light on a spinning elbow smash. Ortiz fired himself up, but ran into a boot to the face. He then wanted the Big O dive, but Swagger easily rolled out of the way. On the floor, Swagger smashed Ortiz on the floor with a clothesline before rolling him back into the ring. Swagger then finished him off with the big gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 8:00. Thank goodness they booked the right finish here. Swagger is at a level far above Ricky O right now. The man is a future World champ and it's embarrassing he even had to sell for Ricky, who looks so hesitant and tentative in the ring. (*)

2 -- D.J. GABRIEL (w/Alicia Fox) vs. JOSH DANIELS

Grisham said he peruses the WWE Universe boards to gauge the response to Gabriel. He reported some positive opinions, but some people saying he's "nothing but a bad dance." Gabriel busted out the Claudio C. giant swing before posing for the camera. Daniels tried to take advantage, but Gabriel cut him off with a chop to the gut and a double underhook suplex. Gabriel then nailed a sit-down chinbreaker before hopping up top for the leaping European uppercut for the win. Afterward, Gabriel and Alicia danced it up. Cut the dancing. We have a Hardy vs. MVP match to promote.

WINNER: Gabriel in 3:00. Just another squash victory for Gabriel. Fine build, but it's time for some quality opposition. (1/2*)

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY (ECW) vs. MVP (Smackdown) -- non-title match

Grisham said MVP hasn't picked up a singles victory since August, meaning he's losing out on plenty of cash from not collecting on his incentive bonuses. Hardy dominated early, including a double sledge from the second rope for a nearfall at 3:00. I love Grisham equating MVP's losing streak to a new baseball pitcher striking everyone out, then the batters adjust and the pitcher starts getting hit around a little bit. MVP, frustrated with Hardy on the offensive, bailed to the floor before they cut to a break.

Hardy was still in control back from the break, but MVP caught him with a big boot to the head to start working on Hardy on the mat. MVP became frustrated following a nearfall, then Hardy tried to kick back against MVP. They battled for momentum until MVP landed a chinbreaker across his knee for another nearfall. Grisham then asked Striker about his many losses in WWE and how to rebound. Striker hesitated and said he's self-admittedly not the caliber of MVP, then Hardy made a comeback in the ring at 12:00.

Hardy landed a leg drop from the middle rope, but MVP kicked out. MVP tried the big boot, but Hardy avoided it. Hardy then charged MVP, but MVP nailed him with the big boot. Another nearfall, though. MVP then wanted a big Chono boot in the corner, but Hardy moved and landed a clothesline. MVP came back with an elbow smash for a two count, then MVP wanted the playmaker, but Hardy reversed into the side effect. He then measured MVP and nailed the Twist of Fate in center ring. One, two, three it's over for Hardy winning.

WINNER: Hardy in 14:00. Good match. MVP showed some good fire, Grisham and Striker were solid on commentary, and it continued MVP's quest to pick up a victory of any kind. Hardy played a strong lead champion without needing to set the world on fire going for a five-star match. Fundamentally sound. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 06 2008, 11:05 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-4-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28367.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. SAMOA JOE -- Legends Title match -- Street fight

Tenay and West took us back to Victory Road in July when the Joe vs. Booker main event led to the start of Sting's quest to beat respect into the Frontline. Yes, the worst-ever main event ending to a show I've ever seen live in person. In any event, the action quickly spilled to the floor where Joe nailed a series of chops before they cut to a break.

Back to action where they traded control until Booker caught Joe flush in the face with a leaping leg whip for a two count. Suddenly, we have Sharmell running interference on the apron distracting the ref. Joe ducked the axe kick and slapped on the rear naked choke, which Booker tapped out, but the Beautiful People ran down to ringside and sprayed their spray in Joe's eyes. Joe ran around in the ring covering his eyes, but then he settled right into position for Booker to nail the axe kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Booker in 9:00 to retain the Legends Title. Just the usual TNA "main event" TV match with plenty of interference and ref incompetence. (*)

2 -- SCOTT STEINER & Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed and Rhaka Khan) vs. CHRISTY HEMME & A.J. STYLES

A bit rough early on between Steiner and Styles, then Steiner knocked down Styles with a straight right hand to the face. Styles then ducked a punch and nailed the leaping dropkick that sent Steiner to his corner. Kong then entered the ring and Styles accepted a chop before wanting to punch Kong, but ref Slick Johnson held him back per the rules of man on man only. Styles then knocked Steiner to the floor and he wanted a splash on Steiner, but Kong yanked him down hard on the apron. Back in the ring, Steiner took control as they cut to break.

Back to action where Kong and Hemme battled with Hemme slapping on a chokehold until Steiner tried to get involved. Styles then got involved and knocked Steiner off the apron to the floor before nailing a slingshot plancha. Back in the ring, Kong stalked Hemme to give her a beating. She then turned her attention to Styles and nailed a big splash. Kong tried the Awesomebomb on Hemme, but Hemme slipped out. Styles then helped Hemme get in position for a big tornado DDT on Kong and she connected while Styles held off Steiner to give Hemme the pin on Kong for the win.

WINNERS: Hemme & Styles in 8:00. Fine match to put Hemme in position as a threat to Kong at the PPV. Styles and Steiner didn't seem to fit into the scenario, but it was fine. (*)

3 -- JIMMY RAVE & SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) & X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED & ERIC YOUNG & JAY LETHAL

Referee Shane is back to refereeing, so the focus of the match was Shane and Bashir, who decided to duck out of the ring and point at Mike Tenay. He asked for a headset. Now. Bashir said he's not in a match with ref Shane or Eric Young because it ain't fair. He said this isn't his time or place. In the ring, the match was set up for Creed's hot tag and house-of-fire entry before he ran into a big boot from Jimmy Rave. Creed then came back on Rave with a fallaway TKO from the fireman's carry position for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Sheik bolted from the broadcast position and attacked Young, but Young fought back on Sheik on the floor. The cameras had a tough time keeping up with the action, then Sheik backed down on the entranceramp to escape Young, who stole the X Division Title and entered the ring to hold it up with Creed and Lethal.

WINNERS: Team Creed in 4:00. Standard X Division throw-it-at-the-wall match before the post-match set up a PPV match. (*)

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. RHINO -- non-title match

The action predictably moved to the floor in the opening minute, then Rhino wanted a Gore into the guardrail, but Sting moved and Rhino ate the guardrail head-first. He then came up bleeding from the forehead with a glazed-over look in his eyes as they cut to break.

Back from break, Rhino and Sting traded control until Kurt Angle stormed ringside to cheer on Sting. A.J. Styles then came down to ringside to take a closer look at the action in Rhino's corner. Angle jumped on the apron, but Rhino knocked him off. Rhino then backed into a clothesline from Rhino. Sting had the Scorpion on Rhino, but Angle and Styles battled on the floor to distract Sting. Sting then turned around and took the Gore from Rhino and Rhino made the pin for the win. Afterward, Angle put his hands on his head and told Sting he's sorry, man. Frontline then celebrated with a blood-soaked Rhino to close the show.

WINNER: Rhino in 6:00. Well, more seeds planted for dissension in the Mafia involving Sting, as Angle essentially cost him the match there. Match wasn't much; just the typical TNA fare leading to a PPV with tons of people involved and plenty of interference. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 07 2008, 08:38 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-5-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28382.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EDGE vs. FUNANKI

Edge walked to the ring with Vickie Guerrero. Ross said "WWE higher ups" intervened and put both Hardy and Triple into the title match at Armageddon. Funaki jump-started the match and even hit a big DDT off the second rope for an early pin attempt. He scored two more two counts with leverage pins before Edge was able to gain his composure. Funaki hit a crane kick and scored another two count. Edge had enough and nailed Funaki with a boot to the face, then finished him with a spear. Ross said regarding Edge: "The eyes of that man tell a very dangerous, complex story."

WINNER: Edge in 2:00.

2 -- MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MARIA

Maria took a bump by doing the splits mid-ring. Ross said, "That hurt me just looking at it." McCool applied a bodyscissors and sleeper mid-ring at 2:00. Maria fought out of it within 20 seconds and delivered a jaw-jacker. She elbowed McCool as she charged her, then clotheslined her twice. Her clotheslines do not look good. Maria ducked a McCool round kick and schoolgirled her for the win.

WINNER: Maria in 3:00.

3 -- MVP vs. HURRICANE HELMS

Helms has a new entrance song. He's grown his hair out. Ross said it's been a year since we've seen him in the ring. He said he had serious neck surgery. His new look includes a much less cut physique. Tazz observed that MVP seemed a lot less confident and cocky than before. The crowd chanted, "I'm just saying." Well, I should say about five or six fans near a ring mic. It didn't catch on. Helms hit a deep armdrag and then applied a cross armbreaker. MVP grabbed the top rope right away to force a break. MVP came back with a big boot to the head. Then he applied a cool mat hold where he wrapped up Hurrican'es arms with his legs and then applied a headlock. The back and forth action continued for a minute with Helms hitting MVP on the back with his spin round kick. Tazz pointed out he wasn't even sure where he caught him because it didn't look good. Helms pointed to the sky afterward, surely a signal to his mom and step-mom, both of whom died in the last year. He seemed to get a bit choked out. In all honesty, not an impressive return for him. His timing didn't seem right and the flabby belly is something that doesn't go over well with Vince McMahon.

WINNER: Helms in 4:00.

4a -- TRIPLE H & JEFF HARDY vs. ZACH RYDER & CURT HAWKINS

Ryder and Hawkins are still with the promotion? Man, did they drop off the face of the promotion. Ross noted again that WWE higher-ups intervened in last week's controversy and forced the three-way match at Armageddon. Triple H tagged himself in. Hardy didn't like that. Ryder jumped Triple H right away, but Triple H gave him a spinebuster seconds later. He then gave him a Pedigree for the apparent win. Hardy, though, dove off the top rope with a Swanton. Triple H had to move. Hardy landed on Ryder. Hardy got up and had a brief staredown with Triple H. Hawkins ran into the ring, so Hardy cut him off as Triple H went for the pin. They shoved each other, but the music of Miz & John Morrison began.

WINNERS: Triple H & Hardy in 2:00.

4b -- TRIPLE H & JEFF HARDY vs. MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

The match was joined in progress with Hardy beating up Miz. The fact that wrestlers trust each other to just lie there as their opponent drops a knee toward their forehead is one of the most amazing aspects of being a pro wrestler. It cost Bret Hart against Goldberg, and Steve Austin against Owen Hart, and Droz against D-Lo Brown among other screw-ups, but it's relatively rare. After a couple minutes without disputes between Triple H and Hardy, Ross said we shouldn't get a false sense of security about their ability to continue to coexist peacefully. Miz and Morrison were able to double-team Triple H for several minutes, tagging in and out while isolating Hunter. Hardy didn't seem bothered by Hunter being on defense for so long.

At 8:00 Hunter hot-tagged Hardy. He cleaned house on both heels. Ross wondered aloud how things would have gone at Survivor Series had Hardy participated as scheduled. Four-way action broke out. Hardy launched himself onto all three others on the floor, taking both opponents and his partner down to the floor hard. Hunter recovered and attacked Hardy. He threw him into the steel steps and then the ringside barrier. Several referees came out from the back to try to restore order. Hardy reversed Hunter into the steps. The referees pulled them apart. Several security members joined in.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison via countout at 10:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Solid action. The heels were just extras as the real purpose of this match was to build tension between Hunter and Hardy - which it did with success. Well done segment, and it's nice to see Miz & Morrison not sacrificed for Triple H. When Triple H is given a chance to plow through several tag teams, he usually seizes the opportunity.

5 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MATT HARDY

Ross said regarding Hardy, "Of course, we see him on Tuesday nights." That's about as far as WWE goes these days in acknowledging the soft brand split that sorta still exists but barely. They ought to just have ten exclusives with each brand and then let everyone else float from brand-to-brand. It'd at least explain why some wrestlers appear on multiple shows despite "belonging" to a single specific brand. Hardy hit an early bulldog for a one count. One counts are nice because they make two counts more dramatic. Ross began talking about Randy Orton vs. Batista. He said he can't wait to see that match, years in the making. Too bad it's a supporting match when it finally happens rather than the centerpiece main event for a world title. At 3:00 the reason for this oddly pointless match existing became clear as Vladimir Kozlov charged into the ring and gave Hardy a boot to the face. He knocked Chavo out of the ring, then tied Hardy's arms in the ropes. He headbutted him viciously and then trash-talked him in Russian. Several zebras entered the ring and magically talked Kozlov into leaving in peace. Kozlov returned to the back. They showed Hardy pointing at his chest and gasping for breath as medics tended to him.

WINNER: No contest in 3:00.

6 -- THE BIG SHOW vs. UNDERTAKER -- Cage Match

This was the least hyped mega-match ever on Smackdown. They just didn't do a good job providing the proper sense of this being a big deal during the show. Other than that Show soundbite earlier, you'd hardly know it was scheduled. When Taker entered the ring after his elaborate ring entrance, Show smiled and looked as eager to play as Kevin Garnett just before tipoff. Show powered Taker into the corner as soon as the bell rang and pounded him with headbutts and body blows. This started with 18 minutes left in the show, plenty of time for a memorable TV main event if they're up for it and booked for it. Show set up Taker for a corner swing splash. Taker moved, although Show's legs still caught Taker. Show struggled to get up. Taker recovered and got to his feet at the same time. Taker punched Show against the cage. Then he tested the strength of the cage walls by taking running starts with a body check and a big boot. On the third charge, Show caught him with an elbow. Show threw Taker into the side of the cage.

Show remained on offense after the break, throwing Taker into the cage. At 6:00 Taker showed signs of a comeback. At 8:00 Taker went to the top rope for his walk-the-rope spot, but Show punched out of it and hit a superplex. By 9:00 they both climbed to the top rope and exchanged punches. Taker eventually hit Show with a barrage of short jabs to Show's face. Show was unsteady and teetered for a dramatic few seconds before collapsing to the mat. Taker climbed to the top of the cage, did the cut-throat gesture, and then rolled his eyes backward. Then rather than climb to the floor to win, he went for a top rope legdrop. Show moved. Taker landed with a thud. Show made the cover, but Taker rolled his left shoulder up just before three. A minute later Taker countered a chokeslam attempt with a DDT. He made the cover. Show kicked out just before three. At 13:00 Show went for a chokeslam. Show powered out and chokeslammed Taker. Show fell backward afterward, but then crawled over for the cover. Taker powered out just before three. Taker blocked a right hand megapunch by Show. When e charged at Show seconds later, Show KO'd him with his megapunch. Just as Tazz declared Taker knocked out unconscious, Taker sat up. Show grabbed him by the throat. Taker slipped on his Heaven's Gate submission. Show struggled to escape, but eventually tapped out. Ross called it an amazing confrontation between two rivals. The show ended as Taker celebrated the win.

WINNER: Undertaker in 15:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Some big spots and good near fall drama, but pretty plodding and slow paced most of the time, so it's neither a must see classic nor a total bomb.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 08 2008, 01:56 pm
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_28415.shtml) To view ongoing in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8430 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2634455&postcount=8430) and posts thereafter.

1 -- FEAST OR FIRED match
WINNERS: Lethal, Homicide, Hernandez, and Curry Man in 13:00. Okay opener with some highspots, but the usual forgettable spots and guys just going through the motions. (**)

2 -- ROXXI & TAYLOR WILDE & ODB vs. SHARMELL & BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY w/Cute Kip)
WINNERS: Team Taylor in 7:00. Just-there match building toward the ODB vs. Sharmell confrontation ... that never happened in the ring after much teasing. One of those matches with no real sense of rules with Kip running in the ring at will. (*)

3 -- X Division champion SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. ERIC YOUNG -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Young in 8:00 to capture the X Division Title. Good match. Another tainted victory for Young, though. The belt doesn't mean anything anyways since TNA hasn't presented the title seriously in two years and they've recently booked Ref Shane > X Division. (**1/4)

4 -- Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed and Rhaka Khan) vs. CHRISTY HEMME -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Hemme via DQ in 6:00; Kong retains Knockouts Title. Good post-match to make up for the non-finish. Match was just fine for what it was worth. (*1/4)

5 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jacqueline) vs. MATT MORGAN & ABYSS -- TNA Tag Title match
WINNERS: Storm & Roode in 11:00 to retain TNA Tag Titles. The same finish we've seen over and over. Just take the TNA tag team formula template and insert Morgan & Abyss as the opposition. Cut and paste. Cut and paste. Slice and dice. Insert here and there. Switch a few things around. Throw in the brass knucks. Boom, there's your match. (**)

6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. RHINO -- Mick Foley as special ringside enforcer
WINNER: Angle in 14:00. Fine match. Angle couldn't get a four-star match out of Rhino like he did Abyss last month, but it was fine. Heavy on storyline and another re-appearance by a former Attitude era wrestler fit the classic TNA over-booked semi-main event match. (***)

7 -- FRONTLINE -- A.J. STYLES & SAMOA JOE & BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON vs. MAIN EVENT MAFIA -- TNA World champ STING & Legends champion BOOKER T & KEVIN NASH & SCOTT STEINER -- Sting's TNA World Title on the line for Styles to win only
WINNERS: Main Event Mafia in 22:00. From last month, they continued the Joe-Nash program of Nash only being able to find himself on a winning side with the dirty tactics on Joe. Match was good. Not memorable, but serviceable in the main event slot heavy on star power. Joe and Styles carried this athletically, then the end of the story was Sting apparently questioning himself for using an "any means to an ends" approach of retaining the title. Pick it up on Impact. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 10 2008, 10:44 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-8-08 including the 2008 WWE Slammy Awards

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28443.shtml) To view condensed in-ring results plus the Slammy winners list, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8440 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2635525&postcount=8440).

Slammy Awards Winners List shown below.

1 -- World tag team champion C.M. PUNK vs. JOHN MORRISON -- Final Four match in #1 Contender to IC Title tournament
WINNER: Punk in 8:00 to advance to the finals. Heck of a match. Great finish, starting with the sick top-rope huracanrana, then a couple of really great nearfalls at the end. If Morrison stays on schedule, 2009 will be his year. (**1/4)

2 -- MVP vs. MVCHARLIE
WINNER: MVC in 3:00. Nice, simple match continuing MVP's losing streak. Rollins's involvement was well-done as he wasn't completely over-the-top playing his role. (*)

3 -- JEFF HARDY vs. CHRIS JERICHO
WINNER: Jericho in 6:00 of TV time. That's quite the surprise to see Hardy lose clean to Jericho. I suppose you just wouldn't expect to see two #1 contenders booked in a TV match with a clean finish six days before a PPV. But, it certainly made Jericho look strong heading into the match against Cena. WWE apparently decided a strong heel Jericho was more important than a strong babyface Hardy for selling a PPV. (**)

4 -- SANTINO & Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE
WINNERS: Finlay & Hornswoggle in 2:00. A bit, well, a lot unbelievable with Hornswoggle scoring the pin. But, Santino's greatness in this segment > suspension of disbelief. (n/a)

5 -- World tag team champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Final Four match in #1 Contender to IC Title tournament
WINNER: Rey in 3:00. Surprisingly short match with a surprise finish that caught me off guard. Kofi is still trying to find his groove on Raw where the writers don't seem to know what to do with him. (*)

6 -- TRIPLE H & BATISTA vs. RANDY ORTON & MANU & CODY RHODES
WINNERS: Team Orton in 10:00. Heck of a finish from Orton. They were playing right into the traditional (insert Batista or Hunter) formula match of beating a stacked deck following a furious finish, but WWE pulling the rug out from under the audience with Cody surprisingly competent and Orton picking up the win worked really well. All those stacked-deck wins actually led to something in this match. (**1/4)

7 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. R-TRUTH
WINNER: Dolph Ziggler via countout in 4:00. Tough spot to be in on the card, but Ziggler looked equally-impressive as last week. Crowd was into the character enough to boo him post-match, so that's much better than standard silence. Good development. (*)

8 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA (Raw) vs. WWE champion EDGE (SD) -- non-title champion vs. champion match
WINNER: No Contest in 8:00. Hot finish led to an expected non-finish leading to the PPV. Post-match took precedence here... (**)

SLAMMY WINNERS:

Tag Team of the Year: Morrison and The Miz
Best Finishing Move: Evan Bourne (Shooting Star Press)
Most Extreme Moment: Jeff Hardy (diving from top of TitanTron onto Randy Orton)
Announcers of the Year: Striker & Grisham
Couple of the Year: Edge & Vickie Guerrero
OMG Moment of the Year: C.M. Punk (beating Edge to win the World title)
Match of the Year: Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair from WM 24
Damn! Moment of the Year: Khali Kiss Cam
Superstar of the Year: Chris Jericho
Best WWE.com Exclusive: The Miz & John Morrison present "The Dirt Sheet"
Best Musical Performance: R-Truth's entrance (SmackDown, Sept. 15)
Breakout Star of the Year: Vladimir Kozlov
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 10 2008, 11:40 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 12-9-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28476.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. JIMMY WANG YANG & KUNG FU NAKI

The bell sounded and Miz did some mockery karate moves. Funaki tried not to crack up laughing, then Miz gave him a playful shove. Funaki answered with a quick kick to the gut then one below the chin for a two count. Striker with a quick Jumping Bomb Angels reference from old school WWF women's wrestling. Morrison and Yang then took tags and Yang busted out a leg sweep and standing moonsault for a two count.

Funaki re-entered and wanted a dive on the floor on the heels, but Morrison slingshot him throat-first across the top rope. Morrison then went on the attack as they cut to break.

I like Grisham filling in the blanks on Funaki's gimmick change that he didn't feel he was "getting it done" as Smackdown's no. one announcer, so he made the change. Back in the ring, Funaki worked out of a chinlock from Miz, then worked into a sunset flip pin for a two count. Miz then went back on the offensive, knocking Funaki's black belt off his waist before nailing a big running clothesline in the corner. Great double team work from Miz and Morrison with a combo elbow smash while Funaki was on Miz's knees. Morrison then posed in front of Funaki before nailing a running knee smash for another two count.

At 10:00, Morrison grounded Funaki as the fans tried to rally for a hot tag. No dice until 12:00 when Yang finally got the tag and came off the top with a big splash on Morrison. Yang fired up with a clothesline before sweeping Morrison and hitting a leaping back kick. Yang then monkey-flipped Morrison out of the corner and the action completely broke down as the ref tried to gain control. Morrison then wanted the Midnight Drive on Yang, but Yang slipped out and wanted the top rope moonsault, but Morrison ducked. Yang was caught at his knees and Morrison hit his springboard back kick on Yang for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 13:00. Really nice match. Great athleticism throughout the match and a nice finish giving Morrison more momentum to regain his heat after the loss last night to Punk in a great match. (**1/2)

2 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. SCOTT REID

Boogeyman charged Reid in the corner to start things off. Striker described the worms as cold spaghetti mixed with dirt. One fan was chanting, "Reid, Reid, Reid" as the poor guy took a hard whip to the corner. Boogeyman with a lift-up slam on Reid for the win. Afterward, Boogey grabbed his bag of worms and shared with Reid. Grisham said don't invite him to a potluck dinner.

WINNER: Boogeyman in 1:00. Crowd was pretty quiet for this one. Not sure how to react after such a lengthy absence.

3 -- FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. MARK HENRY & TONY ATLAS

Hornswoggle found himself in peril in the corner and the kids screamed as Henry set up for a Vader Bomb on Horny, but Finlay pulled Horny out of the way just in time before they cut to break.

Back from break, Finlay was a little dizzy as Grisham gave us a definition check on the word underdog. 'preciate it. Henry continued to work on Finlay as Hornswoggle held the tag rope tightly awaiting a tag. Atlas then tagged in setting up a round of in-and-out tags to slow things down working on Finlay. Henry caught Finlay coming off the second rope and he nailed a big boot to make a cover for a two count. Horny was begging for a tag here, but Finlay continued to take a beating until the crowd tried to pump him up at 10:00.

Finlay came to his feet out of a chinlock, then he used a jawbreaker to escape. Finlay avoided a splash, then he stomped on Henry before nailing a half-DDT for a two count. Henry then knocked Finlay out of the ring and he took the chance to grab Hornswoggle and scoop slam him into the ring. Henry then wanted a big splash on Horny, but Finlay took the bullet and shoved his son out of the way to take the splash. Henry then scooped up Finlay and gave him the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win. Henry and Atlas celebrated to close the show while Hornswoggle looked on with concern.

WINNERS: Henry & Atlas in 12:00. Slow, plodding match before the somewhat-of-a storyline advancement at the end with Hornswoggle in jeopardy. After watching great athleticism in the opening match, this was a little tougher to sit through. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 13 2008, 10:18 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-11-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28542.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results because as we all know, TNA does a hell of a lot of talking and backstage crap than actual wrestling action these days.

1 -- SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. ERIC YOUNG -- X Division Title tournament match quarterfinal match

With ref Shane Sewell suspended for two weeks...with pay... in the storyline, ref Earl Hebner has the assignment for this re-match of the re-match of the recent X Division Title matches. With pay? Shoot, Hebner should attack Bashir and get suspended to take two weeks off to spend Christmas at home with the family. Right on cue, Hebner got into it with Bashir, then Bashir backed away and Young bridge pinned Bashir for the pin and the win. Bashir then chased Hebner out of the ring before Hebner smiled and raised Young's hand on the ramp. They're all corrupt. Young now gets the winner of Shelley vs. Lethal.

WINNER: Young in 3:00. Just a rapid-paced X Division match without enough time to tell a complete story. Completely fine, but completely forgettable. (*)

2 -- ALEX SHELLEY (w/Chris Sabin) vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title tournament match quarterfinal match

Lethal came to the ring holding the briefcase he took from Shelley at the PPV just to rub it in Shelley's face a little bit more. Shelley had enough and attacked Lethal from behind. Sabin tried to get involved early, but Lethal shoved him to the floor and landed a sudden suicide dive on the floor. Lethal then tried to get back in the ring, but Shelley kicked the middle rope, crotching Lethal. He followed with an over the shoulder belly to back piledriver and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Shelley in 2:00. Another super-fast X Division match without any time to develop. (3/4*)

3 -- JAMES STORM (w/Miss Jacqueline) vs. ABYSS -- Beer on a Pole match

Storm nailed the Last Call superkick at 3:00, then he grabbed the beer bottle hanging from the pole. Storm tried to smash Abyss with the bottle, but Abyss went right into a Black Hole Slam. He could have scored the pin, but Abyss opted to pick up the beer bottle and point at Storm to ask the crowd whether he should nail him. Suddenly, Jackie stole the beer bottle out of Abyss's hand and ran right into Matt Morgan, who came out on stage. Morgan then lifted up Jackie to tease violence on a woman, but Robert Roode ran to ringside and low-blowed Morgan. He got what was coming to him. Roode then smashed Abyss with a steel chair and Storm pinned Abyss for the win.

Post-match: Storm and Roode tried a post-match beating on Abyss, but Morgan made the save. He then wanted to give Roode a ride to the mile high club, but Storm smashed him from behind with the beer bottle. Abyss re-entered with a chair in hand, then Roode and Storm bailed. A medic then covered Morgan's head with a towel to stop the bleeding from the beer shot.

WINNER: Storm in 4:00. Morgan somehow finds a way to be less and less endearing as a babyface each week, threatening to hit a woman before getting his with a low blow. Feud continues with Abyss & Morgan chasing the tag champs. (*)

4 -- CHRISTY HEMME vs. SOJOURNER BOLT

Random Knockouts match here with a show of mutual respect between the two to start things off. Hemme won in a few minutes with a roll-up to impress management for a potential re-match with Awesome Kong for the Knockouts Title. After the match, Hemme went for a handshake, but Bolt slapped her across the face. Hemme snapped and attacked Bolt, who escaped through the throng of referees that stormed the ring. Bolt screamed back at Hemme as refs stood in between them.

WINNER: Hemme in 4:00. Quick Knockouts match and a nice, but sudden post-match

5 -- BROTHER RAY vs. KURT ANGLE

Brother Ray came to the ring for the main event, then he waited for Kurt Angle, who suddenly snuck up behind him to get a jump-start on Ray. The match spilled to the floor, then Angle squatted near the PPV poster wall and Ray charged him, but Angle easily moved and Ray crashed through the base of the wall like a bowling ball. Let's get a break.

Still brawling back from break. Apparently during the commercial break, ref Slick Johnson did everything in his power to get the action back in the ring, but he declared a count-out. Count-out? How many other countless TNA matches have followed the same formula and been given a 20, 40, 120 count? Such a cop-out finish. The brawl continued to the trailer area on the outskirts of the arena. Ray was bleeding heavily, then Ray threw Angle into the side of the trailer. Security tried to intervene as they reached catering, but Ray shoved Angle into a structure.

Ray told Angle that if he didn't have a wife or kids, he would end Angle's life right now. Ray called him a piece of crap as Angle stared back with a glassy look of disbelief. Angle told him to hold on and talk this out. From behind, the Mafia jumped Ray and beat him down to draw more blood. Sting was in a suit while the others were dressed for a fight. Sting stood by watching the action as the Mafia dumped various weapons on Ray's head.

Sting was then shown walking away down the long walk back to the arena area. Ray then tried to run away toward Nash, but Steiner and Angle cut him off and threw him into a dumpster. Booker surveyed the scene while Steiner talked trash while Ray was in the trash. Ray was shown out cold on a pile of trash as they closed the show. Angle said nobody messed with the Main Event Mafia.

WINNER: Double count-out in 6:00. Intense show-closing angle to re-establish Mafia's dominance after a big tease throughout the show. Sting remains the question mark in this, creating intrigue. It's good, but the inconsistency on the application of in-ring rules was ridiculous, as usual. (n/a)

And as no major surprise, Curry Man opened his briefcase and found out he was FIRED!!!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 14 2008, 08:37 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-12-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28546.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- MVP vs. R-TRUTH

Truth is coming off a loss to Dolph Ziggler on Monday, and MVP lost to Charlie Haas the same night. Hard to say which is worse. MVP got a overhead throw, then tripped Truth up and sent him face-first into the mat. Chin-lock less than two minutes in, so this one isn’t going long. There were some light “MVP” chants from the crowd as Montel Vontavious Porter continued his offensive onslaught. Camel Clutch by MVP. Truth worked himself out of it and fought out of the corner. MVP slammed Truth down after Porter looked confused about what he was going to do when he caught Truth on a cross-body attempt. MVP made several re-adjustments before turning it into a kind-of side slam. Truth, out of nowhere, rolled MVP up for the win.

WINNER: Truth, at 3:41. Most of the wins coming against MVP now are fluky types, like roll-up, as opposed to early in his losing streak when he was losing clean. So it looks like the bulk of his punishment is over.

2- PRIMO COLON vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK

Quick take-down by Primo. Kendrick came back with an arm-drag, but took too much time celebrating and Primo got in an arm-drag of his own. High-energy offense from Primo as Kendrick got into the ropes to break his momentum. Kendrick ran around ringside and hid behind Zeke. Back-heel kick by Kendrick and Primo was sent out of the ring. Zeke was about to put his hands on Primo when Carlito appeared around the other side to even things up. Tazz kept talking about how “bizarre” Kendrick is. The Brian choked Primo in the ropes. Modified Camel Clutch applied by Kendrick for the second time. Kendrick missed a high knee in the corner and Primo started his comeback with some left hands. Crowd was really behind Colon in this match. Springboard cross-body from Primo got two. Primo went to the top, but Zeke got on the apron. Carlito put a stop to that but Zeke pushed him right into the steel steps. Primo was distracted by this entire sequence, and was kicked by Kendrick as soon as he came through the ropes and back into the ring, then was rolled up by Kendrick for the pinfall.

WINNER: Kendrick, at 7:30. Surprised they got this much time. Not a bad match, with some unique moves used.

3- HURRICANE HELMS vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Hurricane was “already in the ring.” Not a good development for his second week back. Shelton and Hurricane traded offense, with Helms hitting a Blockbuster on Shelton, but Benjamin dropkicked Helms out of the air as Hurricane came off the top rope. Outside the ring, Shelton threw Helms into the guardrail. Benjamin worked over the recently repaired neck of Helms. Swinging neckbreaker by Benjamin for two. Benjamin put Helms in a cross arm-breaker, putting his foot right in the throat of Helms. Kind of like the Hell’s Gate. Couple clotheslines by Helms, but he missed the Shining Wizard. Inverted back-breaker by Shelton for two. A Gerald Brisco roll-up, as called by JR, got Helms a two-count. Helms to the top, he hit a relatively ugly cross-body for three.

WINNER: Helms, at 4:49. Well, Helms won in the Battle of the Carolinas. As expected, he was a little better this week. Why they didn’t show vignettes or do a story of him recovering from his long neck injury, I’ll never understand, especially since the demographics of those viewing have changed (or at least, those that WWE is catering to).

4- GREAT KHALI vs. ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS

Ryder & Hawkins have generic tights now. Hawkins tried to distract Khali, then both men went after him. Naturally, that had little effect. Hawkins was thrown over the top rope while Khali slaughtered Ryder in the corner. Khali caught Ryder coming off the top with a choke, then brain-chopped Hawkins. He then chokeslammed Ryder onto Hawkins and registered the pin.

WINNER: Khali, at 1:19. Well, it was what it was.

5- THE BELLA TWINS vs. MARYSE & NATALYA

I guess Natalya found a new partner to fight the juggernaut that is the Bella Twins. Nikki and Maryse traded waist-locks, then Maryse slapped Nikki. Nikki got aggressive and Maryse found her way into the ropes. Tag made to Natalya, who ran right into drop toe-hold. Natalya just threw Brie over her head in a nice power move. Back-breaker by Maryse after a tag got two. She just toyed with Brie in the ring. Natalya tagged herself in but missed an elbow that led to Nikki coming back in. Maryse got kicked off the apron by Brie when she went for interference, and Nikki got caught by Natalya coming off the middle rope. Brie came in and dropkicked her sister in the back, knocking Natalya on her back and allowing the Bellas to pick up the win.

WINNERS: Bellas, at 4:49. The finish totally buried Natalya, as she had to sell Nikki falling on her for way longer than she should’ve. Not a very entertaining match.

6- TRIPLE H vs. JEFF HARDY

No face-paint for Jeff here. He does have a pink belt that matches his hair though. The match immediately went to the outside, where Jeff took Trips head-first into the barricade. Back in the ring, HHH went back on the attack. Jeff hit a low dropkick and HHH was sent to the outside. Then he went off the apron and barely got The Game. Both men sold it. Jeff threw Triple H into the steel steps. Jeff flung himself off the steps and onto Trips, who fell back and hit the barricade. Both men were down again. Apparently, Scott Armstrong is giving a slow ten-count on the outside. Back in the ring, Triple H clotheslined Hardy and again both men were on the mat.

Hardy got whipped into the buckle out of break. Another hard whip into the buckle and The Game got two on a pin attempt. Jeff came back and clotheslined Trips over the top rope. Hardy flew over the top rope and onto HHH. Trips pinned down Jeff’s arms with his knees and pounded on Jeff’s face. Good move. British Bulldog-like vertical suplex by HHH. Kneedrop for two. The match has slowed beyond a crawl to.....well, whatever is slower than a crawl. Face-buster by The Game for two. Hardy dodged some Trips offense and did register a near-fall. Hardy barely nicked Trips with his reverse mule kick. Hardy snuck out of a Pedigree and Hardy hit Whisper in the Wind. After a short delay, Hardy went for a cover and got two. Front suplex by Hardy. He went to the top for a Swanton, but Triple H made it to his feet. Hardy missed a shoulder to the gut and Trips went for a Pedigree, but Hardy got out of it again. Hardy put him on his back but missed a Swanton. Edge then interfered and speared both Hardy and Triple H.

WINNER: Double DQ, at 16:52. Well, you knew they wouldn’t give much away with the triple-threat match coming up Sunday, but this match was especially slow and boring. Nothing we haven’t seen before from these two.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 15 2008, 02:19 pm
WWE Armageddon PPV Results: 12-14-08

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_28586.shtml). To avoid pop-ups and view match results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8463 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2638070&postcount=8463) and posts thereafter. If you wish to view the entire in-ring reports in one place, go to TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to WWE Armageddon PPV results) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2477034.html)

1 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. VLADIMIR KOSLOV -- non-title match
WINNER: Koslov in 10:00. Well, it was better than Hunter vs. Koslov last month. Rough start, but a good finish, actually. ECW champion being pinned on PPV isn't good for the brand, but WWE is definitely more behind Koslov for Smackdown purposes. (**)

2 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK -- Finals of #1 contender to IC Title tournament
WINNER: Punk in 12:00. That was a heck of an undercard match. Just great action. One of those matches that could have gone another five or six minutes and been perfectly fine extending out the nearfalls. Excellent. (***1/2)

3 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. FINLAY -- Belfast Brawl
WINNER: Finlay in 10:00. Nice brawl. Wasn't particularly memorable, but told a good story and featured enough brawling for fans who are interested in that type of match. (**)

4 -- BATISTA vs. RANDY ORTON (w/Cody Rhodes and Manu)
WINNER: Batista in 17:00. Slow match with some sloppy moments. Never really moved out of second gear, but I wouldn't take that away from the match. It was still a good effort in the ring from a psychological standpoint. I'm not buying this as the right finish. Orton is the hotter character right now and could have used a signature singles victory. (**1/2)

5 -- MICKIE JAMES & MARIA & Divas champion MICHELLE McCOOL & KELLY KELLY vs. MARYSE & NATALYA & VICTORIA & JILLIAN HALL
WINNERS: Team McCool in 5:00. Just a chance to get T&A on the PPV with some tight outfits and the announcers getting Vince McMahon's sophomoric humor out of their collective systems. (1/2*)

6 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Cena in 13:00 to retain the World Hvt. Title. Exciting 13-minute match. Really wish they would have been given more time to test Cena in the ring as champion and have a showcase PPV match, but this was good for the time given. Jericho was great, as expected. (***1/2)

7 -- WWE champion EDGE vs. TRIPLE H vs. JEFF HARDY -- WWE World Title match
WINNER: Hardy in 18:00 to capture the WWE Title. That was pretty dang similar to the Chris Benoit match storyline at WrestleMania 20 for Benoit's first title victory. Heck of a main event match and great drama culminating with WWE putting the belt on Hardy after years and years of false starts. Pressure is on now, but it was a great night for Hardy tonight. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 16 2008, 11:13 pm
WWE RAW Results: 12-15-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28613.shtml) To view condensed in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8489. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2638681&postcount=8489)

1 -- KELLY KELLY & MELINA vs. Women's champion BETH PHOENIX & JILLIAN HALL
WINNERS: Kelly & Melina in 2:00. Melina was apparently flown into Pittsburgh for her entrance only, as she saw zero action tonight. Post-match was um...wait for a follow-up. (1/2*)

2 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. SIM SNUKA
WINNER: Rey via DQ in 3:00. Good development with Knox actually being physical to advance the storyline attack on the not-yet-named Cruiserweight division. Deuce...er...Hijo del Snuka looked impressive for a few moments without the Greasers gimmick holding him back. (*)

3 -- World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK & KOFI KINGSTON
WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 12:00 to retain the World tag team titles. Heck of a tag team match. When WWE rarely features those independent style tag matches where they inevitably break down into Texas Tornado action for no rhyme or reason, it actually means something to enhance the drama of a tag match. Miz & Morrison were great, as expected, and Kofi looked better than he has in months. (***)

4 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. SANTA CLAAS
WINNER: Dolph in 4:00. Dolph remained impressive despite having to drag Santa around the ring for four minutes. In all seriousness, if that's possible, Haas worked pretty well in the suit during the "WWE Kids Rulz" portion of the show.

5 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & BATISTA vs. LEGACY (RANDY ORTON & MANU & CODY RHODES)
WINNERS: No Contest in 18:00. Really intense finish and post-match activity, re-establishing Randy Orton as a main event player after he lost last night. That's called getting your heat back. Cena played his role well as the Star Babyface and Batista worked his style through his limitations in the ring. They created a good TV main event with 20 minutes of overall time and set the stage for next week. Good conclusion to a strong show. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 17 2008, 11:25 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 12-16-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete results) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28635.shtml).

1 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. CHAVO GUERRERO -- ECW Title match

The match started with an exchange of control, then a quick break.

Back from break, they showed us what happened during the break with Chavo slamming Matt's arm across the top rope to gain the advantage. Hardy accepted suplexes, but Hardy came back with the side effect for a nearfall. Chavo went for the Three Amigos suplexes, but Hardy countered the third with the Twist of Fate in center. Hardy then made the cover for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 10:00 to retain the ECW Title. Fine match from what I saw. I mentally missed a portion until the finish, which was really good. (**)

2 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. GAVIN SPEARS

Finlay took it to young Spears early, but Spears is part of the on-again, off-again ECW talent initiative, so he wasn't getting squashed. As Finlay and Gavin fought on the floor, Striker cut a promo on "The Wrestler" (without saying it by name, but referencing Randy "the Ram" Robinson), saying you can make all kinds of movies about wrestling, but Finlay is what it's all about. Hm... I wonder if McMahon got his movie screening and didn't like it. Finlay eventually settled things down and finished off Gavin with the Celtic Cross for the pin and the win. Afterward, Hornswoggle taunted Striker and Grisham with the Slammy in the ring.

WINNER: Finlay in 4:00. Just a fun match for the kids with Hornswoggle ringside. It was good to keep Finlay short and sweet in the filler spot on the card to begin rebuilding him after the Henry program apparently concluded. (*)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER & World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. KOFI KINGSTON & C.M. PUNK & RICKY ORTIZ

Typical opening with the heels briefly on the advantage, then Team Kofi helped clear out the heels to the floor with Ricky O clotheslining Swagger to the floor. Babyface stood tall in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kofi was being worked over by the heels. Grisham posed the question of whether Miz is Kelly Kelly's boyfriend. Striker said it's amazing he's even in the ring one night after being dropped on his head by Kane. This really does hurt last night's storyline that it was largely ignored until that moment. Kingston finally escaped the heels and hot-tagged to...Ortiz...ugh. Ortiz, in his yellow pants, flew around the ring working on the heels, then he sprang up top and landed a dropkick on Swagger. Ortiz made the cover, but Morrison broke up the pin. Action broke down, then Miz yanked Punk to the floor and Kofi kinda did a suicide dive onto Miz. Back in the ring, Ortiz tried a springboard move on Swagger, but Swagger thankfully kicked him in the gut. Swagger with the gutwrench powerbomb and that's all she wrote with Swagger getting the pin.

Post-match: Punk tried to fight Miz & Morrison, but Swagger stood in between them. Punk then checked on Ortiz as the heels stood tall in the ring. Striker noted Jack Swagger is still undefeated.

WINNERS: Team Swagger in 11:00. Didn't have quite the same energy level as last night's tag title match with the addition of Swagger and Ortiz to the equation. Swagger certainly added to the action, but Ortiz subtracted. With Swagger as #1 contender to the ECW Title, Hardy vs. Swagger hype needs to happen soon. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 20 2008, 10:04 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-18-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28713.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RHINO vs. LANCE ROCK

Tenay and West quickly discussed the end of last week's show when Brother Ray took a vicious beating and the Frontline would have a chance at revenge against the Mafia with Nash and Sting locked in a steel cage against Joe & Styles. I like that transition from last week. Match was a basic squash, with Rhino scoring the Gore in 2:00 for the easy win.

WINNER: Rhino in 2:00. Just happened. (n/a)

2 -- CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley) vs. SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) -- X Division Title first round tournament match

Former X Division champion Sheik Abdul Bashir came out on stage a minute into the action to sit down on a chair and get a closer look. He had the towel with ref Shane's blood draped over his face from last week. In the heel vs. heel match-up, Dutt worked in control for the first three minutes before Sabin tried a come back with Cradle Shock, but Dutt countered into a DDT for a two count. Dutt followed with a step-up kick, but Sabin blocked a huracanrana into the Cradle Shock in center ring. Sabin scored the pin, Bashir was non-reactional, and Val might need a new source of money with Dutt's losses piling up. Sabin gets Kiyoshi or Creed in the second round.

WINNER: Sabin in 5:00. Nice match for only five minutes of time allotted. At least it wasn't a three-minute quick-and-over match, but here's to hoping some of these second round matches get at least 10-15 minutes. (*1/2)

3 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) & SCOTT STEINER vs. ABYSS & MATT MORGAN

Basic tag match to start things off with the babyface Morgan & Abyss team in control, then we got a break.

Back from break, Abyss broke free of the inevitable post-commercial break double-team work before making the hot tag to Blueprint. Morgan cleaned house and talked trash in the process, then he landed the bicycle kick on Steiner for a two count. Action broke down, as expected, then Abyss clotheslined Booker to the floor. On the floor, Sharmell tried to get involved, then Abyss nearly slapped her on accident. The ol' "did he or did he not?" slap angle with Sting and Booker from a while ago. In the confusion with the ref checking on Sharmell, who was complaining about an injury, Booker smashed Morgan with a pipe then he hit the axe kick for the win. Sharmell was suddenly recovered and she jumped up and down. Abyss nearly broke down into tears realizing he had one put over on him and he let Morgan down.

WINNERS: Mafia in 7:00. Going-through-the-motions TNA tag match. Nothing that will be remembered by next week. (*)

4 -- KIYOSHI vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED -- X Division Title first round tournament match

Tenay informed us Borash has the scoop on TNA Mobile. Don't worry about what the story is; just know he has the scoop. Creed was on the defensive from the beginning. He didn't get a scouting report on the newcomer making his in-ring debut. Creed finally made a comeback when Kiyoshi missed with a diving headbutt from the top rope, then Kiyoshi kinda slumped to the mat following a kick to the head. Not a natural reaction. Kiyoshi then blocked a CreeDDT and kicked Creed in the back of the knees in the corner. Kiyoshi followed with a top rope moonsault for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kiyoshi in 5:00. I'll take Kwang for $100, Alex. Semi-finals are Young vs. Shelley and Kiyoshi vs. Sabin. (*)

5 -- CHRISTY HEMME & ODB vs. RHAKA KHAN & RAISHA SAEED

Didn't take long for the brawl to begin on the floor with Hemme paired off against Saeed. Hemme then slipped into the ring to help ODB against Khan, but Khan drove her big leg into ODB. Hemme then tackled Khan before ODB tried to rip her head off or give her a neck massage. Couldn't tell and Khan wasn't co-operating. Hemme then went up top and knocked Raisha off the top rope, and ODB set up Khan to take the firecrotch leg drop for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Hemme & ODB in 2:00. Well, that was rather decisive and short. (n/a)

6 -- SAMOA JOE & A.J. STYLES vs. TNA World Hvt. champion STING & KEVIN NASH -- Six Sides of Steel Tornado Cage match

Back and forth, then a break.

Odd camera shot back from break with Sting trying to work over Styles in the corner, but Styles's head was right in Sting's crotch. Meanwhile, Nash pounded away on Joe until Joe came back with trademark offense. Sting then broke up a pin and worked on Joe, but Styles nailed Sting with a dropkick. Styles then jumped off Nash's shoulders and hopped onto the cage wall and quickly climbed down the cage. He jumped to the floor and we have a winner.

WINNERS: Styles & Joe in 6:00. That's it? Post-match that followed was pretty good use of the cage, but the actual bell-to-bell use was a total waste. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 21 2008, 08:00 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-19-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28716.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN & MVP vs. R-TRUTH & HURRICANE HELMS

Jim Ross went a little low calling MVP the Detroit Lions of the WWE based on his inability to win a match in well-documented fashion. Of note: the Lions were the only undefeated team in the NFL pre-season. Practice? We're talking about practice? MVP was in there first, but Shelton blind-tagged himself when he was unsatisfied with MVP's work on Helms. Truth then worked himself into the ring and suplexed Benjamin for a one count. MVP demanded a tag, but Shelton refused to let him back in. MVP was beside himself looking for a tag at 4:00, then Shelton eye-balled him and turned his attention toward Helms, who looks like Tyler Black now.

Helms went up top for a big move, and he connected with a cross body block, but MVP broke up the pin. Truth then entered the ring and knocked MVP to the floor. Shelton dumped Truth to the floor, then Helms and Shelton battled in backslide position until MVP accidentally smashed Shelton with the Chono Boot. Truth then finished off MVP with a corkscrew elbow and Helms grappled Shelton for a turn-out neckbreakerish for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Truth & Helms in 6:00. Finish was a little off with them trying to co-ordinate the choreography, but it looked a little forced. Good hype for Helms vs. Benjamin for the belt next week, though. Purpose served. (*)

2 -- FESTUS (w/Jesse) vs. JOHN MORRISON (w/The Miz)

Festus knee'd Morrison in the head early on, then Festus smashed him with a shoulderblock. Festus vs. Koslov in a headbutt or shoulderblock contest will happen one day, I'm sure of it. Miz tried to interfere at 2:00, but Festus avoided him. Jesse then tried to smash Miz with the bell, but Miz ducked and Jesse hit the ringbell into the ringpost on accident. Festus stopped dead in his tracks and went dumb, so Morrison easily took advantage with the Moonlight Drive corkscrew neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Afterward, Morrison hopped on Festus and surfed him while Jesse remained KO'ed on the floor.

WINNER: Morrison in 3:00. Fine singles win for Morrison while Jesse & Festus continue to take up space on Smackdown. (*)

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. EDGE -- non-title match

Ross and Tazz continued to talk about the pre-Survivor Series beating on Jeff Hardy in the hotel and Matt believing it was Edge, while Edge maintains he had nothing to do with it despite the sheer coincidence of Edge returning at SS. Early going had Hardy dominating things, which frustrated Edge. Ross referenced their personal issues back in the day that he thinks neither one will ever get over. Edge then was hung up to dry on the top rope and Hardy dumped him to the floor. Hardy laughed at Edge, who was frustrated as they cut to break.

Back from break, Edge missed with a corner smash to continue the frustration against Hardy. Hardy then settled into an arm bar before sitting down on the shoulder to wrench it. Edge finally found sustained offense at 8:00 and started working on Hardy's left arm, which was bleeding a touch after the initial work.

The match continued at 10:00 with Edge continuing to work on Hardy's left arm. Hardy then made his comeback and nailed the side effect, but Edge stretched his leg out to touch the bottom rope to break up a pin. Hardy then missed with a sledge from the second rope and Edge tried to roll him up with a handful of tights, but Hardy rolled through into a two count. Both men popped up, then double clothesline and both men went into recovery mode.

At 15:00, Hardy nailed a drop toe hold to block the spear, the Edge blocked Twist of Fate and shoved him into the ringpost. Edge waited for Hardy to turn around, then Edge nailed a "slobberknocking" spear for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Edge in 16:00. Nice match. Good story from start to finish, and a surprising (in a good way) clean finish with Edge needing the victory more than Matt to set up a probable Jeff vs. Edge re-match for the title at the Rumble. Unless they go triple threat for the umpteenth time. (**1/2)

4 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/The Brian Kendrick) vs. WWE tag team champion CARLITO (w/Primo)

Carlito avoided Jackson's power offense early on, then Carlito slapped him. Jackson knocked Carlito the floor and TBK wanted Sliced Bread on the floor, but Carlito easily avoided the move. Back in the ring, Carlito wanted a springboard move on Jackson, but Jackson smashed him in the back with a forearm. He followed with a modified chokeslam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Jackson in 3:00. There was a time when Carlito had a certain edge to him. It's not there with him on Smackdown. Jackson just needs time to connect with the audience before he can do anything of substance on the show. (3/4*)

5 -- MARIA vs. MARYSE -- #1 Contender match to Divas Title

Maryse arrogantly brushed against the top rope before wanting to lock up, so Maria slapped her across the face and pounced on her with right hand blows. Maryse then slipped to the outside to take a breather. Maria tried to give chase on the floor, but Maryse dropped her with a clothesline. Back in the ring, Maryse went to work on Maria and took control of the action. She landed a hair-whipping DDT at 4:00 and scored the pin for the win. So, it's McCool vs. Maryse in a future title match. Afterward, Maryse slowly made her way to the floor to pose in front of McCool, who was not impressed. Maryse showed herself off to McCool, who eventually stood up and slapped Maryse's hand away. The security guards got a kick out of that.

WINNER: Maryse in 4:00. Basic divas match. McCool continues to develop her character with subtle mannerisms and a calculating demeanor. Maryse was a bit awkward approaching McCool, but that's her thing. (*)

6 -- WWE champion JEFF HARDY vs. VLADIMIR KOSLOV -- non-title match

Koslov walked into the match with a little cut below his right eye and Hardy quickly opened it up with a backhand slap that didn't faze Koslov. Koslov, over-aggressive, tried to hit Hardy near the ropes, but he fell to the floor and Hardy stood tall in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Koslov went to work on Hardy with some mat work. Crowd tried to rally for the champ, but Koslov cut off Hardy's comeback. Back to the left arm. Throw in some grunts to really sell the arm bar. Koslov then missed with a corner shoulder thrust and Hardy came off the top out of nowhere with the Whisper in the Wind.

Suddenly at 10:00, Edge stormed the ring and attacked Hardy to earn a DQ on Koslov. Edge and Koslov then doubled up on Jeff and beat him up a little. Suddenly, Triple H was shown walking backstage with a scowl on his face. Did Matt already leave the building? Sure gives evidence to Matt being the Survivor Series hotel beat-down-er. Edge saw Hunter on the screen, so he grabbed a chair and readied himself for Hunter, who stormed the ring in street clothes.

Hunter ducked the chair shot and kicked Edge in the gut before delivering a Pedigree. He then tackled Koslov and beat on him before rolling to the floor and tackling Koslov onto the padding. Hunter then sent Koslov into the ringpost as Tazz pointed out Hunter had the WWE Title won at Armageddon until Koslov's interference. Hunter pulled out a sledgehammer, then Koslov went running for high ground. Hunter slowly stalked him on the floor. Back in the ring, Hardy put an exclamation point on things with a Swanton Bomb on Edge. Hardy then grabbed his WWE Title belt as Hunter stared back into the ring from the stage area. Hardy celebrated as they closed the show.

WINNER: Hardy via DQ in 10:00. There goes Koslov's undefeated streak, but now it will be a never-been-pinned type deal. Always a loophole to find. Hopefully the Hunter vs. Koslov feud simply strings itself out to the Royal Rumble PPV where they can pick it up inside the Rumble match and not force us to watch another one-on-one encounter. Hardy with a nice cap to a show that is desperately struggling to fill the mid-card. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 22 2008, 12:32 am
WWE Tribute to the Troops: 12-20-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (link to Caldwell's report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28734.shtml) Reprinted in its full form here...

Prez prepared speech: President George W. Bush was shown on camera welcoming us to WWE's tribute to the finest fighting troops in the world. He said the troops are the heroes to every American and he supports WWE for their commitment to the men and women fighting overseas. WWE stars have boosted morale and WWE offers free tickets to military personnel because WWE knows the troops are America's finest citizens. Surreal seeing the President on a WWE show.

In-ring: Jeff Hardy kicked off the show coming to the ring for an opening tag match. C.M. Punk then came out as his tag partner. R-Truth was then shown standing on a tank in the crowd for his ring entrance. Truth rapped his way through the makeshift arena to the ring and asked Baghdad what's up. Miz and Morrison came out next and they were sporting cool Army hats. JBL's music hit and he came out in a military tank rather than the traditional limo. JBL was sporting a giant combat facemask to protect himself in the military zone, with a cowboy hat situated on top.

1 -- R-TRUTH & WWE champion JEFF HARDY & C.M. PUNK vs. R-TRUTH & THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

Quick TV six-man tag opening with the babyfaces clearing Team JBL to the floor and landing planchas to get a roar from the military men and women ringside. Babyfaces stood tall as they went to the first break.

They returned to Camp Victory with Miz nailing Punk in the corner with a splash to continue working over Punk, who lost control of things during the commercial. Hardy then took a hot tag at 5:00 and worked on Miz as the fans chanted his name. Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler calling this one, and they referenced Hardy as the new WWE champion, so voice-overs from Stamford were recorded this week. JBL snuck into the ring at 7:00 and gave Hardy a big clothesline. Truth then snuck into the ring and clotheslined Miz to the floor.

JBL wanted the Clothesline from Hell on JBL, but Hardy ducked and nailed the Twist of Fate. Hardy then went up top for the Swanton Bomb and he connected square on JBL's gut for the pin and the win. Afterward, Hardy kinda collapsed on the mat until his partners picked him up and helped him celebrate.

WINNERS: Team Hardy in 8:00. Basic TV match to get as many top stars in one match. Totally fine. (*1/2)

Ringside: Art Myers, who is in charge of Armed Forces Entertainment, was shown ringside clapping it up for Hardy. ... They went to a video package on the WWE wrestlers talking about the experience in Iraq, with clips of wrestlers interacting with the troops. Lots of clips of the divas giving the troops a thrill. Shad Gaspar military pressing one troop. Rey Mysterio shaking hands with troops. JBL smiling and grinning. Soldiers holding up pics of their kids. Tons of "You Can't See Me" from Cena and the troops. A few seconds of Cena's post-show promo thanking the troops was shown.

In-ring: Lilian Garcia said it's time for Santa Claus to come visit the troops. Cue up Santa Shad and JTG, who came to the ring in Santa suits while Cole and Lawler talked about Cryme Tyme trying to "borrow" a lot of things during their visit to Iraq. Cryme Tyme did their rap, then they asked for Santa's helpers to come out to the ring. Out came Kelly Kelly, Maria, Mickie James, Alicia Fox, and Eve to hand out Christmas gifts to the troops. One troop got a Christmas kiss from Maria. Lawler said that's the best Christmas present he's ever been given. Kelly tossed t-shirts into the crowd, then Cole transitioned into a serious video package on their tribute.

Video package: A group of children did voice-over readings of their letters to the troops while an action video package aired on the troops doing their thing in Iraq.

Video package: The seeds of liberty have grown into a bond between U.S. and Iraqi soldiers. They showed clips of the two different country's soldiers walking together in a secure Iraq. Chris Jericho, ever the rockstar, solemnly pointed out this place was being bombed just a few years ago. They showed pro-U.S. clips of Iraqi life improved with the help of the U.S. soldier's work in Baghdad.

In-ring: Big Show, then Chris Jericho came out for another six-man tag match. Randy Orton then came out to round out the heel trio. Manu and Cody apparently didn't get to make the trip.

In-ring: Batista came out first for the babyface team. Cole informed us it's his first trip Tribute tour and he came out sporting camo pants rather than traditional wrestling trunks. Batista waited on the apron, then Rey Mysterio came out and body-surfed into the crowd before entering the ringside area. And finally, World Hvt. champion John Cena, who was sporting a #4 jersey. Cole said it reps the fourth infantry division. Sweet overhead shots of the makeshift arena, by the way.

2 -- BIG SHOW & CHRIS JERICHO & RANDY ORTON vs. World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & REY MYSTERIO & BATISTA

Batista wanted the Batistabomb on Orton early on, but Orton went to the knee and Jericho tagged in to continue working on the knee. Jericho yelled at the troops, then Batista caught him with a Black Hole Slam before tagging in Rey. Jericho reversed a whip, but Rey caught Jericho with a head scissors that sent him onto the middle rope. Rey wanted the 619 on Jericho, but Show stepped off the apron to catch Rey by the legs and whip him into the guardrail. Break time.

Before returning to the ring, a slideshow of the trip was shown with pictures of the wrestlers interacting with the troops. Back to the ring where Jericho was stomping on Rey, who wanted to make that hot tag, but Jericho pulled him back into a neutral control to paint brush Rey. Jericho and Show then started to have an argument about taking out Rey, so Jericho shoved him in the chest.

Show slowly stepped into the ring and went right up to Jericho before giving him a chokeslam. Orton then took a headbutt for good measure and Show decided to leave the ring. Show went AWOL (there's an Orton military joke in there, but I'll pass), then Rey was able to make his hot tag to Cena, who cleaned house on Orton and set him up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena took his time and told Orton "You Can't See Me" before brushing that dirt off his shoulder to deliver the Knuckle smash. Cena wanted to put Orton away with the FU, but Jericho broke it up.

Action broke down and Orton wanted the RKO on Cena, but Cena shoved him off into Jericho and the heels butted heads. Rey was then in position to hit a double 619. And finally, Batista with a Batistabomb on Jericho and Cena with the FU on Orton simultaneously. Batista and Cena pinned the respective opponents for a double three count for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena in 10:00. Fine house show-style send-'em-home-happy match for the troops. (*1/2)

Closing video: They showed another highlight video of the wrestlers flying to Iraq, then touching down to meet up with the troops. More of the "You Can't See Me" from Cena and troops. Nice recap video, including more mileage out of Prez Bush's show-opening speech to the troops.

A fine show. Just what WWE was supposed to do, which was put their best foot forward on prime time network TV and try to class up pro wrestling.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 23 2008, 03:03 pm
WWE RAW Results: 12-22-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28765.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view condensed in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8506. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2641752&postcount=8506)

1 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. KANE (w/Kelly Kelly) -- Winner advances to four-way #1 contender match next week

WINNER: Michaels in 6:00. Fine singles match. The crowd booing both men made for a strange "Summerslam 2004 bizarro-world" dynamic, but Michaels created movement to keep the viewer's interest for six minutes. (*1/4)

2 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. MANU (w/Cody Rhodes)

WINNER: Kofi Kingston in 3:00. Eh. People will remember Kofi nearly stumbling onto his keyster before the boom-boom leg drop, but this match had no chance without a back-story for why it was taking place. Match action should be protected and made valuable, not just thrown out without a purpose. (3/4*)

3 -- MICKIE JAMES & MELINA vs. LAYLA & JILLIAN HALL

WINNERS: Melina & Mickie in 4:00. Rough patches in this one, but Melina's finisher is just plain sick. Again, no real purpose to this one. No reason to spend four minutes on in-ring action unless there's a purpose or pre-match storyline. This was merely Regal promoting himself, but yet, Punk is the #1 contender after the tournament and we have no idea when his IC Title match against Regal is taking place. (1/2*)

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. JBL -- Winner advances to four-way #1 contender match next week

WINNER: JBL via DQ in 13:00. The finish was unique and certainly advances the JBL/Michaels program, while setting up Rey to either snap on Michaels or just be passive-aggressive Rey and let it slide off his back. Match was something. Had a different vibe to it, then really picked up at the end with the nearfalls. (**1/4)

5 -- C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- Winner advances to four-way #1 contender match next week

WINNER: Jericho in 15:00. Heck of a TV match. Punk showed great grit fighting off the Walls of Jericho, while Jericho was great as the in-ring heel technician carrying and calling the match. That was a great display, with a hot crowd involved in the action. (***1/2)

6 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & TRISH STRATUS vs. SANTINO MARELLA & Women's champion BETH PHOENIX

WINNERS: Cena & Stratus in 5:00. A feel-good way to close the show featuring a newsworthy return and Santino doing his thing of bouncing around the ring. They obviously put Stratus with Cena to deflect the expected boos against Cena, so it was a good mask for their once-in-a-blue-moon appearance in front of an "insider-type" audience that would boo Cena. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2008, 02:19 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 12-23-08

Tonight's ECW on SciFi was a  'Best of 2008' show highlighting the past year in ECW so no results will be posted.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 27 2008, 07:03 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-25-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2643024#post2643024) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley) vs. KIYOSHI -- X Division Title semi-final tournament match

West was solid in the pre-match reminding the viewer of Consequences Creed having trouble with Kiyoshi in the first round because he didn't have a scouting report on Kiyoshi. Will Sabin learn from watching Kiyoshi in his first TNA match? Of note, ref Shane is back in the ring refereeing. Sheik Bashir walked out on stage with a towel wrapped around his head a minute into the action and sat down on a chair. Kiyoshi is pretty rough around the edges in his execution of moves, further underlying the point that he's a student of Great Muta. Kiyoshi missed with a top rope moonsault, then Sabin nailed the Cradle Shock for the pin and the win. Bashir had a non-reaction. Shelley celebrated with Sabin. He gets Shelley or Young in the finals.

WINNER: Sabin in 5:00. Match was irrelevant, which was unfortunate for Sabin, as the real X Division storyline of Bashir vs. Referee followed. (*)

2 -- SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. A.J. STYLES & BROTHER DEVON

This started as a closed-fist punch-out brawl between Booker and Devon, then Styles and Steiner battled. Devon then tagged in and shoved a boot into Steiner's throat. Styles back in at 3:00 to work on Steiner, but Steiner shoved Styles into the corner. Styles broke free and pushed Steiner to the floor, then nailed a baseball slide kick. Action broke down on the floor with the Frontline in control as they cut to break.

The action spilled to outside of the Impact Zone during the commercial break where Devon and Booker were brawling by a trailer. West reminded us it wasn't about a pin or getting a win. Is anything wrestling-related in TNA about actually winning a match? I don't even know why they have a ring. Styles and Steiner were brawling in the crowd with a split-screen of the action. Suddenly, the Mafia jumped Devon where Brother Ray was jumped two weeks ago. Nash and Angle pounded on Devon before hand-cuffing him to the wall. Booker followed with huge knee smashes.

Oh, we're back in the ring with Steiner working on Styles. After Styles re-gained control, Kurt Angle showed up in the ring. Styles fought him off, then knocked Nash off the ring apron. Angle was dumped to the floor. Booker then showed up and attempted an axe kick, but Styles hit the Pele kick. Mafia then jumped Styles after regrouping to beat down Styles. Steiner brought a chair into the ring. West was ridiculously over-the-top narrating this, then Frontline finally showed up to help prevent Styles taking the same fate as Joe last week. Mafia eventually beat down the weaker Frontline before Rhino stormed the ring to go after Angle. Rhino cleaned house, but Angle subdued him for Steiner to nail a series of chair shot blows to the back.

Mick Foley had enough and he stormed the ring to knock around the Mafia, who fed him for the big house-cleaning. Goodness, the washed-up executive shareholder > entire Frontline. That's going to help the younger stars in the credibility department. In any event, Foley cleared the entire Mafia with the help of Socko, then Angle talked trash from ringside. Foley wanted a mic. As if we haven't had enough talking on this show. We'll find out his thoughts after the break.

WINNERS: Who knows in who knows. Was there a match? What is a match? Is this a wrestling show? Foley being the one to clean the entire ring of the Mafia after everyone from the Frontline failed was just inexplicable booking. I know you have to hype Foley's return to the ring, but at the expense of the credibility of the entire Frontline roster after they failed to clean the ring just once in two months? Not worth it.

3 -- ODB & ROXXI & TAYLOR WILDE & CHRISTY HEMME vs. Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED & SOJOURNER BOLT & RHAKA KHAN -- Santa's Workshop Knockouts street fight

Some creative outfits you might see at a tacky Christmas party. Except for Bolt, who apparently missed the memo and sported a leopard-print outfit. Roxxi was an elf. Hemme was an aerobics instructor with candy-cane-striped socks. Kong entered the ring and over-powered Hemme, but Hemme hopped on her back and everything completely broke down. Ref Rudy Charles threw his hands in the air like he just don't care. Kong vs. Hemme is at the PPV in a lumberjill match, by the way. Taylor knocked Raisha off the apron into a mosh pit below on the floor that looked more like a corporate event where someone falls backwards to test the trust of his or her co-workers. Taylor then came off the top with a cross body block into the mosh pit. Back in the ring, Khan grappled Taylor and gave her a step-over kick before licking her hand. Taylor then rolled up Khan, who freaked out at the thought of being part of a wrestling move, and scored the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Team Taylor in 6:00. Just an excuse to get several Knockouts in the ring at the same time. Better-than-average build up for Hemme vs. Kong at the PPV. (*)

4 -- RHINO (w/Jeff Jarrett) vs. KURT ANGLE (w/TNA World Hvt. champion Sting)

Rhino had plenty of offense early on with Angle distracted by Jarrett ringside. Angle then came back at 2:00 with a smashing elbow smash. Angle then spit on Jarrett, who stormed into the ring. Refs were suddenly on the scene to hold back Jarrett, who we are reminded is talent and not office anymore. Let's let the cooler heads prevail during the break.

Rhino made a comeback from an Angle waistlock and landed multiple right hand blows before nailing a forearm to spring free. But, both men knocked each other down with a clothesline. Rhino then came up with a clothesline and a shoulder tackle in the corner before landing a suplex. Angle teased the Olympic Slam, but Rhino countered with a spinebuster. Angle then slapped on an Anklelock, but Rhino kicked him through the ropes to the floor. Jarrett talked trash, then Angle slapped him and side-stepped Jarrett, who crashed into the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Angle re-applied the anklelock, which has no credibility anymore because no one taps out to the move. Jarrett had enough and took off his shirt before storming the ring to attack Angle. Ref Hebner threw the match out. A brawl broke out until security intervened to set up a pull-apart brawl. Terry Taylor and B.G. James tried to enter the scene as Angle slowly reached out and grabbed Jarrett's golden locks. B.G. got the camera time to tell Angle to control himself. Angle then decked B.G., who was laid out to close the show with the focus on him.

WINNER: Angle via DQ in 10:00. Okay match, but just standard Impact TV fare with Rhino in there. He's a roleplayer who shouldn't be asked to carry a main event match, and he's fine when put into the roleplayer slot. Finish was inevitable. For starters, it's a TNA TV main event where a match can't just end. There must be a post-match to take precedence over the contemptuous in-ring action, and now the sympathetic figure is a TNA agent not booked for the PPV. Awesome. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 29 2008, 12:37 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-26-08

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Hermanstyne's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1004014.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Triple H defeated Chavo Guerrero in 2:08. The match began with Hunter getting very aggressive with Chavo. Chavo applied a baseball slide and a nice heel kick. Chavo tried to fool Hunter by throwing a chair and impersonate Eddie but Hunter didn't fall for it. Hunter spine busted and Pedigreed Chavo for the quick win. After the match, Hunter grabbed the sledgehammer and clobbered Chavo in the mid-section.

Mind of Marv: Decent segment. Triple H's charisma is what makes him entertaining. Chavo has turned into Gopher? Ooh, was that a shot at University of Minnesota? Just some friendly Illini humor, haha.

2. Shelton Benjamin defeated Hurricane Helms to retain United States Title in 11:02. The match began back and forth and Helms said what's up with that. Helms knocked out Shelton and applied a cross body to him outside the ring for three nearfalls. Shelton threw Helms into the ropes for a nearfall.

The match returned with Shelton dominating Helms by working on his neck. Shelton applied a neck breaker for a nearfall and he put Helms in a body scissors. Helms hit Shelton with a nice uppercut and clothesline. Helms attempted the Shining Wizard but Shelton countered. Helms gave Shelton the Shining Wizard but Shelton kicked out. Shelton gave Helms Paydirt to retain his belt.

Mind of Marv: This was a great TV match. Nice action throughout. Shelton did make Helms's finisher look weak by kicking out, but I'm glad they are moving Benjamin forward instead of burying him. I would like for them to have a U.S. Title tournament like they did with the IC title, it would be interesting because of all the mid-carders that can make the tournament fun.

3. Carlito defeated The Brian Kendrick in 2:17. The match was back and forth with a series of kicks and punches. Kendrick kicked Carlito off the top rope for a nearfall. Carlito gave Kendrick a high knee, clothesline and springboard. Zeke tried to get involved by pushing Primo. Kendrick kicked Carlito and missed The Kendrick which led to Carlito applying the Backstabber for the quick win.

Mind of Marv: Pretty quick match which builds up to the future title match between these teams. But come on...seriously the Bella Twins are OVERRATED. I'm just saying.

4. Maryse defeated Michelle McCool to become new Divas Champion with Maria as special guest referee in 4:35. McCool started the match with a lot of athleticism which was somewhat impressive (in my opinion). McCool hit Maryse with a nice dropkick for the nearfall. Maryse applied an inverted leg sweep to a cobra clutch which McCool countered with a nice kick. McCool applied a series of dropkicks and a spinning neck breaker. McCool got the hell kicked out of head by Maryse to win the title. She received a standing ovation from the crowd.

After the match McCool beat the hell out of Maria, which was lead to a ton of "You Suck" chants.

Mind of Marv: Maryse's Ooh Oui entrance music, sounds tight with the bass. But anyway, the heel turn is official of McCool and seeing Maria getting beaten was quite entertaining.

5. The Great Khali squashed MVP in 2:35. MVP rolled out of the ring and almost got counted out. MVP took some cheap shots at Khali but he was basically destroyed. MVP tried to get some offense and applied the Drive By Kick to Khali. Khali ended the misery with the Punjabi Plunge.

Mind of Marv: Watching MVP job every week is sad as hell.

6. Vladimir Kozlov squashed Jimmy Wang Yang in :57. Why bother wasting time? Battering Ram, choke slam, total squash.

Kozlov cut a promo saying everyone on each brand should look out because he will win the Royal Rumble and become champion.

Mind of Marv: Yawn. He's running out of people to squash.

7. WWE Champion Jeff Hardy defeated Big show in a non-title match by count out in 11:00. The match began with Show destroying Hardy with knife edge chops and punches. Hardy attempted a Twist of Fate on Show, but was countered by getting thrown out of the ring.

The show returned with Show still destroying Hardy. Show got some nearfalls with a hammerlock slam, and chops to the chest. Show missed an elbow, and Hardy got a couple of seconds of offense before Show applied a bear hug. Hardy gave Show two Whisper In The Winds and a Swanton Bomb for a nearfall. Show attempted a choke slam but was countered by Hardy for a DDT, a mule kick and a kick to the announce table.

Both entertainers were getting counted outside of the ring and Hardy got back in the ring to get the count out victory. Matt Hardy ran out and celebrated with Jeff.

Edge thought he got away with murder by not facing the Big Show next week but Vickie told Edge that The Hardys seem to be reunited and will face Edge and the Big Show in a tag match for next week.

Mind of Marv: This main event was boring as hell. The first eight minutes was basically a Big Show squash match. What a way to make your WWE champion look weak as hell. Then Show kicks out of two of Hardy's finishers? What's with the WWE make their wrestlers (I mean entertainers) finishers look useless? But overall, this was a wrestling heavy show that I appreciate, but it started to slump within the last 40 minutes which sucked.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 30 2008, 11:03 pm
WWE RAW Results: 12-29-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28890.shtml) To view condensed  in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8520. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2644346&postcount=8520)

1 -- CODY RHODES vs. C.M. PUNK

WINNER: Cody Rhodes in 4:00. That was pretty predictable, but the only "out" to keep Cody in the group and make sure Punk didn't have a clean loss prior to an IC Title match next week. (*)

2 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYALE of KELLY KELLY vs. MELINA vs. MICKIE JAMES vs. JILLIAN HALL vs. CANDICE MICHELLE vs. KATIE LEA -- Winner faces Women's champion Beth Phoenix at the Royal Rumble

WINNER: Melina in 3:00. Terribly short battle royale. Candice must have upset someone, as she had no ring entrance on TV - her calling card - and about 20 seconds in the ring. Or it's part of a long-term storyline involving the women's division that will play out in epic fashion in a credible TV match. Okay, not happening. (1/2*)

3 -- SIM SNUKA vs. SUPER HAAS CHARLIE SNUKA

WINNER: Sim Snuka in 4:00. Nice effort from Sim, who continues to show more than when he was a Greaser. Haas had a pretty good impression of Superfly, but his gimmick isn't leading anywhere. Just a mere TV filler role, which will keep him on TV, and that's half the battle. (*)

4 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON & CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPAR) vs. KANE & MIKE KNOX & DOLPH ZIGGLER & World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

WINNERS: Team Chain Gang in 12:00. Fun match with an exciting ending to send-'em-home-happy if the fans want to beat traffic out of the building. The heels didn't get too much time to work in offense, but Dolph continues to stand out a few matches into his WWE run. (**1/2)

5 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. MANU -- non-title match

WINNER: Matt Hardy in 8:00. Slow, plodding match. Manu is better off in tag matches and short singles matches right now. The same Hardy story of the champ being on the defensive forever before hitting the Twist of Fate out of nowhere for the win. (*)

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JBL vs. SHAWN MICHAELS vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- #1 Contender match to the World Hvt. Title -- elimination match -- Winner gets Cena at the Royal Rumble

WINNER: JBL in 25:00 to become #1 contender to the World Title. Michaels managed to take a completely dead crowd and have them eating out of the palm of his hand milking five minutes worth of MVP-caliber wrestling storytelling. Match was slow prior to the finish, then Michaels really told a story leading to a stick-it-on-the-Rumble main event with Cena vs. JBL when the Rumble itself will sell the PPV. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 31 2008, 11:51 pm
ECW on Sci-Fi Results: 12-30-08

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (link to Park's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28917.shtml)

1- MARK HENRY vs. MATT HARDY

Henry overpowered Hardy in the opening minute. Hardy goaded Henry into a test of strength, only to get a kick to the gut to go on offense. Good thinking there. But Henry went back on offense soon after. The fans got behind Hardy as Henry's methodical offense started to wear down the ECW Champ. Tony Atlas caused a distraction as Hardy was about to get things going, which allowed Henry to splash him in the corner. Hardy barely got his foot on the rope on a pin attempt by Henry, and the show went to break with Matt in peril.

Henry continued his offensive onslaught, giving Matt some shots to the ribs then stepping on his throat. Matt got off the ropes as Mark was going to sit down on him as he had his throat across the ropes in a 619 position. Henry found away to choke Matt on the ropes anyway. Henry missed a sit-down splash and Hardy started his comeback. Side Effect for two from Matt. He knocked Atlas off the apron and Henry pushed Hardy off on a Twist of Fate attempt. But he pushed him right into Jack Swagger, who had come out and entered the ring. Swagger slammed him to the mat, drawing the DQ and the ire of Henry.

WINNER: Hardy, by DQ at 10:05. Well, they sure made Henry look good as he owned that match. I'm surprised they're not putting him on the back-burner with Swagger ready to take over as top heel challenger.

2- PAUL BURCHILL vs. DJ GABRIEL

Burchill was seconded by Katie Lea, and of course Alicia Fox was with Gabriel. I kinda thought Gabriel was a heel. Two Brits going at it here. Couple arm-drags by Gabriel, but Burchill got some shots in himself. Matt Striker gave full background on Burchill, who was making his first ECW appearance. A slight "DJ Gabriel" chant from the crowd. Burchill settled into a chin-lock. Gabriel got a couple elbows in to the chin of Burchill, but Paul came back with some knee drops. Striker even mentioned Burchill was a descendant of Blackbeard the Pirate. Another chin-lock from Paul. Gabriel fought back with a monkey flip but a clothesline to the back of the head by Burchill ended that sequence. Gabriel countered a powerslam with a gutbuster. Gabriel went to the second rope, presumably for his finisher, but Burchill pulled his foot off the rope. Gabriel got the win by rolling over on Burchill and hooking the legs behind him for the three.

WINNER: Gabriel, at 5:32. WWE has shown a penchant for starting someone new off against jobbers, then moving them on to lower card guys. Gabriel has passed the jobber test, so he got Burchill tonight. Still, Burchill got in more offense than I expected.

3- FINLAY & BOOGEYMAN vs. JOHN MORRISON & THE MIZ- NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

Early on, Hornswoggle got down behind Miz and Finlay pushed Miz over the little guy. Morrison got involved and the two ended up getting clotheslined outside the ring by Boogeyman. Miz almost got pulled under the ring on the other side by Boogey, then Hornswoggle dove onto the duo. Morrison took out Finlay's leg on the apron and Miz kicked him to ringside. Miz applied a chin-lock to Finlay in the ring. Morrison tagged in and battled Finlay. Shouldn't this be a Tornado Tag match, since it's no-DQ? What's the point of waiting for a tag? Boogeyman was literally foaming at the mouth to get in the ring as Finlay continued to be beaten down. Boogey finally broke up a pin attempt by Morrison and nailed Miz to boot. That gave Finlay time to re-energize and clean house. As Finlay clothesline Miz over the top rope, the legal man Morrison rolled him up for the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison, at 5:54. Finlay wisely did all the work for the faces.

After the match, Finlay did his finisher on Miz after Boogeyman attacked him. The heels made their way up the ramp as Finlay picked some kids from ringside to dance and run around the ring with Hornswoggle. A feel-good way for WWE to end 2008.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 04 2009, 07:19 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete results) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_28965.shtml)

1- CURT HAWKINS & ZACK RYDER vs. FINLAY & THE GREAT KHALI

Khali immediately took out both men and did the double noggin-knocker. With the ref distracted, Hornswoggle got involved too. Finlay tagged in and dished out some punishment to Hawkins. He then clotheslined Ryder on the outside. That distraction led to some yelling from Hawkins and he took over on offense as well. It's hard to believe how far these two have fallen in the last year; I thought for sure they were destined to be something worth investing in as the EdgeHeads. They're in desperate need of some character advancement though. Finlay came back to make a tag and Khali did some more attacking of both. Punjabi Plunge on Ryder for three.

WINNER: Finlay & Khali, at 4:06. I could see Finlay & Khali becoming a semi-permanent "odd couple" face team.

2- JESSE & FESTUS vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON & THE BRIAN KENDRICK

Oh c'mon, now Ezekiel has the red tights; now he's inviting MORE comparisons to Ahmed Johnson. Some teamwork by the faces cleaned house on the heels. Jesse worked over Kendrick and tagged in Festus. Festus missed a charge but caught Kendrick on a cross-body attempt. But Festus tweaked his knee and Kendrick, then Ezekiel after a tag, honed in on that body part. Festus recovered enough to tag Jesse, who was all over Kendrick. Not much crowd heat for the faces. Eventually, Festus and Zeke got involved. Zeke made a blind tag when Jesse was on offense and surprised the country boy with a uranage to finish them off.

WINNERS: Jackson & Kendrick, at 4:42. And the heels are back on track. This was a bit more energetic than I expected.

3- VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. HURRICANE HELMS

Kozlov dodged a few Hurri-kicks and went to work on Helms' left arm. Jeez, right off the bat he went for a mat-hold. Helms tried to fight out and came back until Kozlov locked his arms and gave some headbutts to the chest of Helms. Kozlov took Helms down again with the arm. Helms slammed Helms across the top rope, then hit the fallaway slam. Helms got Kozlov down to one knee and attempted the Shining Wizard, but Vlad met him with a headbutt, then his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Kozlov, at 4:18. Got Kozlov more over as a machine, but it wasn't particularly entertaining.

-Coming up next, the Royal Rumble entrants from Smackdown will be announced. I wonder why they decided to forego qualifying matches this year?

-Jim Ross was in the ring to present the Smackdown Royal Rumble participants. Oh, it's only "some" of them. First is Triple H. The Big Show, Vladimir Kozlov and Shelton Benjamin. As JR was going to announce something (or someone) else, Shelton and his music interrupted. He took umbrage with JR simply introducing him as a "participant," rather than the odds-on-favorite he should've been announced as. He told JR to get out of the ring then showed off his US Title and bragged about his title reign thus far. He said no one in the Rumble match can compare with his talents. The Undertaker's voice came over the PA system, the lights went out, and when they came on, he was in the ring. He then chokeslammed Shelton. He was the other participant JR was about to mention.

4- MVP vs. KIZARNY

Before the match, MVP was so down-trodden he just wanted them to bring out whoever his opponent is and to get it over with. No bragging, no nothing. Crowd was chanting for "MVP" at the start, but Kizarny did get a decent pop coming out. Kizarny got some offense then baseball slid MVP to the outside. He dove through the ropes and onto MVP. Cross-body from the second rope got one. MVP headbutted Kizarny in the gut and threw Kizarny to the outside. He hung Kizarny out to dry on the barricade. In the ring, he got a two-count. Waist-lock applied by MVP. MVP stayed on the offense and face-planted him into the mat. Back to the waist-lock. Belly-to-belly throw by MVP, but Kizarny came back with a jaw-breaker. Dropkick to MVP's leg, then a running seated dropkick. Kizarny bounced MVP's head off the three turnbuckles in the corner then made a unique cover on MVP. It only got two. Playmaker was countered with a double-arm roll-up for the pin.

WINNER: Kizarny, at 6:29. I don't know if the finisher was botched or what, but it looked weak. Didn't seem to me to be an impressive debut from the carny.

5- EDGE & BIG SHOW vs. MATT & JEFF HARDY

Edge and Matt Hardy started the match off and then Jeff tagged in and the brothers took out Edge and Show. They tried to throw Edge onto Show,but the big man simply caught him. The heels tried to re-group going into break.

Edge was in control of the WWE Champion out of break. Jeff hit a Whisper in the Wind then Matt came in and missed a moonsault. Edge tagged Big Show who did some damage to Matt. Edge tagged in as the match slowed a bit. He worked the arm and rib area of Matt. Show lifted Matt by the arm and slammed him down. JR compared Show's fingers to railroad spikes and Tazz said they were as thick as sausages. Show and Edge cut off the ring as they worked Matt over. Matt back-dropped Edge but couldn't make the tag as Edge rolled him up for two. Show, unprovoked, walked away from the match and went backstage, just like on the Tribute to the Troops show (only he was provoked by Jericho then). Edge looked confused, but set up to spear Matt. Matt got the boot up then hit a Side Effect and both men were down. Tag was made to Jeff, who hit his usual offense on Edge. Poetry in Motion was hit by the brothers and Matt hit a bulldog. Then he landed the Twist of Fate and tagged Jeff, who hit the Swanton and made the pin.

WINNERS: Matt & Jeff Hardy, at 14:06. Solid main event that set up some things with Edge and Big Show but I hope they don't turn Show face again already.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 07 2009, 10:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29016.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view condensed in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8536. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2647545&postcount=8536)

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA & Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. GOLDUST & MELINA

WINNERS: Melina & Goldust in 4:00. Decent set-up for Beth vs. Melina for the belt at the Rumble. Goldust's involvement? Apparently they need to justify having him on the roster. Just fine, though. (3/4*)

2 -- Intercontinental champion WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) vs. C.M. PUNK -- IC Title match

WINNER: Punk via DQ in 4:00; Regal retained the IC Title. Well that sucked. At least there's a follow-up re-match, but will anyone care about another IC Title match with a false-start on the first title match of the year? (n/a)

3 -- World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 13:00. Nice finish to the match, although we might need a health check on Kofi. Miz & Morrison continue to be a great tandem and Morrison continues to show why the latter part of 2009 should be his break-out time as a singles wrestler. (**1/2)

4 -- JILLIAN HALL vs. KELLY KELLY

WINNER: Kelly in 4:00. Fine. Jillian was able to work in some heel tactics - like screaming - to keep the action intriguing leading to Kelly's comeback. Good set-up for Kane vs. Orton next week. (3/4*)

5 -- CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPAR) vs. SIM SNUKA & CODY RHODES

WINNERS: Legacy in 6:00. Legacy picks up a predictable win here to apparently remain in the group, but the follow-up after the commercial was pretty interesting... (*)

6 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & SHAWN MICHAELS vs. RANDY ORTON & CHRIS JERICHO

WINNERS: Cena & Michaels in 16:00. Excellent WWE main event style match that was heavy on storyline to carry the tag team portion of the match. Crowd was red-hot and Cena and Michaels effectively milked those hot tags. Orton was nearly lost in the shuffle while Jericho was great on the heel end of things. Well done to set up next week's blockbuster Raw. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 08 2009, 01:54 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 1-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29043.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle)

Swagger went to the mat early on, utilizing his amateur acumen, then Finlay got one up on Swagger before making a mock smiley face toward Finlay to mock his Cheshire cat grin. Swagger took exception and grounded Finlay on the mat. Matt Striker said he really likes the name Swagger, as it embodies what he's about. Finlay landed some European uppercuts with a thud as Todd Grisham reminded us that Swagger is the #1 contender to Matt Hardy's ECW Title. Finlay clotheslined Swagger over the top rope at 4:00, then Hornswoggle showed up and attacked Swagger with a splash from the apron. Kids popped. Swagger took exception and chucked Hornswoggle hard into the guardrail. Kids cried and booed. Finlay then came over to Swagger and smashed him into the ringpost before checking on his son. Kids cheered. Let's grab a break.

Back from break, Swagger was in control inside the ring. Excellent belly-to-back suplex from Swagger, who then went to the arm with an arm bar. Finlay tried to fight back, but Swagger came up with a hard clothesline. BTW, Finlay is bleeding from the mouth here. In any event, Swagger stomped away on Finlay in the corner before landing a single-arm DDT. He then landed a high knee square in the face for a two count. Ref asked Finlay if he wanted to quit on another armbar, but Finlay shot back that he ain't quitting.

Match continued at 12:00 with Finlay struggling to escape the arm bar before landed three forearm blows. Swagger scooped him up, though, and nailed a shoulder breaker for another two count. Finlay then avoided a sit-down splash and rallied with a burst of momentum that included a seated butt bomb for a two count. Finlay then landed the rolling rock slam for another two count. Finlay then tried a shoulder tackle, but he smashed his shoulder into the ringpost. Swagger wanted the gut wrench, but Finlay countered into a roll-up for a two count. Swagger was the first one up, but Finlay used a headbutt to subdue Swagger. Swagger then caught Finlay with two knees to the head out of the corner before following right up with a gut wrench powerbomb for the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 15:00. Some people might not have liked this one due to the slow-down nature of the match, but I thought this was an excellent match. Swagger continues to take advantage of every opportunity he's given and advances in the ring every time out. He has "star" written all over him. Good piece of business here to have Swagger pick up a "respectable" victory over Finlay. (**3/4)

2 -- KATIE LEA (w/Paul Burchill) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/D.J. "Colt McCoy" Gabriel)

Alicia was impressive early on, snapping off some nifty aerial moves. She kicked Katie in the gut before landing a "splits-like" leg drop for a two count. Katie then slingshot Alicia throat-first across the middle rope before slamming her to the mat with a backbreaker across her knee for the win.

WINNER: Katie Lea in 3:00. Decent match. Alicia looked impressive in the limited amount of time she had in the ring on offensive. (3/4*)

3 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. BRETT IDOL

Boogeyman quickly went to work on Brett and finished him off with a pumphandle slam for the win. Not much here. Squash to re-introduce Boogeyman onto TV. Afterward, Boogeyman grabbed the bag of worms and took a bite of worms before regurgitating onto Brett.

WINNER: Boogeyman in 2:00. Well, it's Boogeyman. (n/a)

4 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) -- non-title match

Henry quickly went to work on Hardy, who's developed a bit of a gut while trying to heal his knee and unable to do as much cardio recently. Before they cut to a mid-match commercial, Hardy knocked Henry to the floor and came off the top with a splash sending both men crashing into the guardrail.

Let's get back to the action with Henry landing a big elevated hanging suplex for a two count. Henry was favoring his left knee while Atlas shouted instructions to continue punishing Hardy into buying the product. Henry out Hardy on the mat and twisted his neck to open up, but Hardy refused to take the product. He then chop-blocked Henry's left knee twice to force him onto the mat.

Hardy teased the Twist of Fate, but Henry blocked, only to take a bulldog from the second rope. Hardy was feeling it and wanted the TofF again, but Henry shoved him down to the mat. He missed with the Big Splash, though, and Hardy got the Twist on the third attempt to score the pin and the win. They replayed the finish, then Grisham and Striker gave a big plug for the Hardy vs. Swagger match next week.

WINNER: Hardy in 11:00. Nice match. One of the better ones in their series. And a good set-up for Hardy vs. Swagger for the strap on next week's show. Good conclusion to a book-end strong show. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 10 2009, 10:21 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-8-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1004151.shtml) To view condensed version, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8539. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2649211&postcount=8539)

1. Alex Shelley (w/Chris Sabin) defeated Eric Young in an X Division Title tournament match in 4:35.

Powell's POV: It seemed silly that Bashir was allowed to taunt and beat up Sewell whenever he felt like it, but the payoff to this storyline should be fun. I'm also looking forward to the Sabin vs. Shelley finals for the X Division Title on Sunday. The pay-per-view suddenly looks better on paper.

2. Awesome Kong (w/Raisha Saeed, Rhaka Khan, Sojourner Bolt) pinned Madison Rayne in 2:00.

3. Matt Morgan (w/Abyss) defeated Robert Roode (w/James Storm, Jacqueline) via referee stoppage in 4:45.

4. Jay Lethal and Consequences Creed beat Beer Money (w/Jackie) to win the TNA Tag Titles.

Powell's POV: Good match with all three guys working hard, but it took two guys and a briefcase to beat Storm. Tenay talked about how "opportunistic" it was of Lethal and Creed. If they're going to rip off WWE gimmicks, the least they could do is come up with their own adjectives.

5. Kurt Angle defeated B.G. James in a No DQ match in 10:00.

Powell's POV: Kurt should have looked dominant heading into the pay-per-view against a guy that the fans see as a part-time wrestler. At least Angle finished him off clean, which doesn't happen enough in TNA.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 10 2009, 12:10 pm
Source: prowrestling.net (http://www.prowrestling.net)

Quote
The WWE website features a story that claims Jeff Hardy and his girlfriend Beth were in a car accident in Cameron, N.C. early Friday morning. "Both Jeff and Beth were injured during the accident, but no ambulance was called to the scene." To read the full item, visit WWE.com.

Powell's POV: This is a storyline that will be featured on tonight's Smackdown. Hardy states during an interview that airs on the show that he will appear on next week's show and will defend the WWE Title at the Royal Rumble. The segment actually aired in most overseas markets yesterday. As one of our correspondents noted, there was no story posted on the WWE website for those viewers, and the date that they listed in the police video during the show was a day early.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 11 2009, 12:32 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-9-09

Results courtesy of ProWresting.net (direct link to Shore's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1004169.shtml) To view condensed version, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8544 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2649664&postcount=8544)

1. Triple H defeated John Morrison in a Tables Match at 4:23.
Shore’s Slant: So-so table match. I hate gimmick matches on free TV. They always leave something to be desired. Kind of like a $50 whore. It gets the job done, but…eh, it wasn’t as exciting as it should have been.

2. Undertaker defeated Shelton Benjamin at 12:34.
Shore’s Slant: Solid match from these two. Benjamin doesn’t look all that weak in the ring, and Taker builds momentum for the Rumble. I can see now that the Hardy angle is going to irritate the shit out of me. Lovely.

3. The Bella Twins defeated Michelle McCool and Victoria at 3:22.
Shore’s Slant: My wife has figured out how to tell the twins apart. Brie has a tattoo and Not Brie…well…does not. That’s why she’s Not Brie. I have to admit, Michelle McCool has made me care about her more than for the three minutes I’m alone in the bathroom. I mean, I think a lot in the bathroom. You know? I’m just sayin.

4. Triple H defeated Chavo Guerrero and The Miz at 4:18.
Shore’s Slant: Another Smackdown where Triple H is God and the rest of you will bow before him. Ugh.

5. Carlito and Primo Colon defeated The Brian Kendrick and Ezekiel Jackson to retain the World Tag Team Championship at 6:07.
Shore’s Slant: Well color me surprised, I had Zeke and TBK winning that one. I guess it really doesn’t matter as tag belts are bottom rung titles in WWE. Fun match, maybe the best of the night.

6. The Big Show defeated Triple H in a Last Man Standing match at 16:25.
Shore’s Slant: About what I expected from these two on free TV. Not terrible, but not all that good either. I’m still waiting for the sledgehammer to come out. I have to say, I am truly stunned that it never made an appearance. This was a weird show in that it was wrestling heavy, but still annoyed me. Taker/Benjamin was fun, as was the Tag Title match. The main event was OK, but I was tired of Triple H by then. Let’s recap: he ate a table, a couple of stair shots, went through four guys, and still took 16 minutes to be put down. Where does he hide the big *** “S”? The road to the Royal Rumble continues next week. Thanks for reading and I’ll see you then.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 15 2009, 12:41 pm
Waaaaay behind so let's play catch-ups:

WWE RAW Results: 1-12-19

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29198.shtml) To view condensed in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8562 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2652025&postcount=8562)

1 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. World tag team champion THE MIZ

WINNER: Rey in 4:00. Way too short of a match there. Could have gone another seven or eight minutes and given Miz a chance to prove himself in a singles opportunity. (*1/4)

2 -- IC champion WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) vs. C.M. PUNK -- Intercontinental Title match

WINNER: Regal via DQ in 2:00. Well, there had better be a point to this because it's going to be difficult for the audience to buy into future title matches with the first two of this year ending in lame fashion. (n/a)

3 -- KANE vs. RANDY ORTON (w/Cody Rhodes)

WINNER: Orton in 9:00. Apparently they're doing a blind-as-a-bat angle for WWE refs now. Either that or Scott legit screwed up making the three count, as there was a very awkward moment after the bell. They played it up well if it was a legit match finish. (*1/2)

4 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. SHAWN MICHAELS (w/JBL) -- non-title match

WINNER: Shawn Michaels in 24:00. One night after an early TNA MOTY contender, we have our first WWE Match of the Year contender. What an epic TV match with WWE effectively playing up so many different elements of the Cena-Michaels-JBL program. Michaels was superb. Cena had this different "heel" edge to him. JBL was great in his subtle reactions and not over-playing the heel manager card. Just another great match in the HBK vs. Cena series. They bring out the best in each other. Only a slow period around 12:00 kept this short of reaching five stars. Seriously. (****1/2)

ECW on SciFI Results: 1-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29236.shtml) To view condensed version, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8563 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2652031&postcount=8563)

1 -- PAUL BURCHILL & KATIE LEA vs. D.J. GABRIEL & ALICIA FOX

WINNERS: Gabriel & Fox in 3:00. Short match without much to write home about. (1/2*)

2 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. SAMMY SABOR

WINNER: Boogeyman in 1:00. Striker saved this one. I understand the art of building up a monster via the squash, but unless Boogey has developed a magical ability in the last year to work a competitive five-minute match, I don't see him being in a position to ascend to a main event level in ECW.

3 -- ECW champion MATT HARDY vs. JACK SWAGGER -- ECW Title match

WINNER: Swagger in 16:00 to capture the ECW Title. Excellent title match. Swagger has certainly earned his spot as the champion of a WWE brand. Now, it's a matter of seeing how he fares with the belt in hand. The upside for Swagger is enormous. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 17 2009, 09:04 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29295.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- STING (w/Kurt Angle, Scott Steiner) vs. HERNANDEZ -- TNA World Hvt. Title

Hernandez opened with some chops in the corner against Sting, who was still wearing a gray t-shirt. Hernandez followed with a slingshot shoulder tackle. He followed with another shoulder tackle. Angle showed concern at ringside. Hernandez scored a two count at 1:00. Steiner interfered as Angle distracted the referee. Tenay hyperventilated as he tried to sneak in all of his talking points hyping the rest of Impact, as if you should have to reiterate the line-up in the midst of a TNA World Title match rather than just making the match in and of itself seem like the biggest deal possible. Hernandez tore off his shirt after a couple clotheslines, then set up a powerbomb. Booker T threw Hernandez's shirt in his face just as he lifted Sting. Then the MEM attacked Hernandez, prompting the ref to call for the DQ.

WINNER: Hernandez via DQ in 4:00.

-Four minutes of official in-ring action in the first hour.

2 -- ODB & ROXXI & TAYLOR WILDE vs. RAESHA SAEED & RHAKA KHAN & SOUJOURNER BOLT - Street Fight Rules

A couple minutes of back and forth action, heels on offense first, then ODB came back. They cut to a break at 3:00.

After some ringside brawling, Roxxi went on a flurry of offense and scored a near fall on Bolt with a bridge at 8:00. A minute later Roxxi finished Khan with the Voo Doo Drop.

WINNERS: Roxxi & Wilde & ODB in 9:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- TNA still really misses Gail Kim.

3 -- ABYSS & MATT MORGAN vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED & "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL

At 2:00, after Creed did his silly splits routine before popping up to punch Morgan, Morgan KO'd him with a big boot to the face off the ropes. That deserved a big babyface pop. They cut to a break.

Morgan was still beating down Creed after the break. Tenay and West noted that Abyss wanted to tag out, but Morgan was reluctant because he hasn't felt he's had enough ring time in their tag matches lately. As soon as Abyss tagged in, Creed caught him with a boot and hot-tagged Lethal in. Lethal and Creed double-teamed Abyss and then hit Morgan at ringside with a stereo shoulder dive through the ropes. Creed caught Abyss with a top rope dropkick seconds later for a near fall at 7:00. Morgan entered the ring and gave Creed an overhead slam. Creed landed on his feet. Abyss caught a flying Lethal in mid-air, but slammed him inadvertently onto Morgan for the pin.

WINNERS: Lethal & Creed in 8:00 to earn a tag title shot against Beer Money at Against All Odds.

STAR RATING: *

4 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. A.J. STYLES -- Mick Foley as Special Referee

West said Styles "might be the most talented wrestler on the planet today." Steiner took Styles down amateur style and then slapped the back of his head a few times. Foley gave what appeared to be a pep talk to Styles at ringside. West said Foley is noticeably limping at ringside. Styles came back with a headlock at 2:00 followed by a signature dropkick. He played to the crowd and then flip dove onto Steiner on the floor.

Steiner was in control after the break with chops in the corner and then a suplex. Tenay said the Jarrett-Angle match was one of the greatest matches they've had the opportunity to call. West said it was the hardest to call. Steiner bear-hugged Styles and then just tossed him face-first onto the mat in a nasty looking spot. Steiner gave Styles a Steinerline, then grabbed a chair from the crowd. Foley yelled at ref Earl Hebner. Steiner wedged the chair into the corner. The ref lectured him. Styles recovered and whipped Steiner into the chair. Styles took over with a stretch of offense leading to a near fall at 12:00. Steiner raked Styles's eyes afterward. Styles came right back with a bridge suplex and then a hard flying clothesline in the corner. When he went for a Stinger splash, Steiner yanked the ref into his path. Steiner then face-planted Styles as Foley checked on Hebner. Steiner grabbed his steel pipe and hit Foley on the back with it. Steiner then hit Styles with the pipe. With Styles down, Steiner made the cover. Hebner came to long enough to count, but Styles kicked out before three. West said it must've just been an instinctive reaction. Steiner then applied the Steiner Recliner. The ref came to and checked on Styles. Foley came to and pounded on the mat to encourage a Styles comeback. Styles reached for the ropes, so Steiner released the hold and forearmed Styles. He dragged him back to center-ring and reapplied the Recliner. Foley showed off his "famous sock." Petey Williams ran out and leaped off the top rope with a dropkick to Steiner's jaw. The ref didn't see it. Styles then hit Steiner with a Pele Kick for the win. The show closed with Foley, Styles, and Petey standing together in the ring with their arms raised.

WINNER: Styles in 15:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Steiner's pretty limited, but Styles is pretty good, and Steiner stuck with what he can do - the suplexes and power moves - and they put together a solid match. The finish forwarded the seemingly forgotten Petey-Steiner conflict.

FINAL THOUGHTS: A middle of the road edition of Impact. Nothing stood out as horrible storyline-wise for them, but nothing really grabbed you, either. Just more of MEM and Front Line battling each other. The returns of Brother Ray and Petey was supposed to carry the show from a newsy standpoint. The Palin payoff was a bit of a letdown as the Palin impersonator just disappeared after it was revealed she wasn't the real deal. The Hernandez cash-in was a letdown, too. He better get that briefcase back after how cheap his title match ending was.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 18 2009, 09:08 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29313.shtml) Condensed mostly to in-ring results here.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. MATT HARDY & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle)

This is a big moment for Swagger, his first appearance on one of the Big Two shows. For those who haven't been watching ECW, he is the real deal and the best bet to come out of nowhere to be a major player quickly. He is a natural in the ring, a natural on the mic, he's a natural with body language and facial expressions, and a natural at being a heat generator. Ross on Swagger: "Jack Swagger, a young man who has as much potential as anyone I've seen in WWE in many, many years." Meanwhile, Matt Hardy's apparently been on the diet that Hurricane Helms was on the past six months. He's hitting that age in his mid-30s where the same number of calories in doesn't necessary work itself off as easily. Henry overpowered Hardy early, but Hardy came back with an enzuigiri and then a hot-tag to Finlay. Swagger sold to Finlay for a moment, but then rammed Finlay into the ringpost and sent him to the floor where Henry beat on him a little. Swagger got sustained offense as Hardy got the crowd to clap as they cut to a break.

Even when Swagger applies a chinlock, he makes it look like he's holding someone back from pushing a nuclear bomb button that's going to destroy the world. There's nothing casual about it. Finlay avoided a swing splash by Swagger at 11:00 leading to a hot-tag to Hardy. Hardy took it to Swagger right away, looking to get retribution for losing the ECW Title to him earlier in the week. Hardy hit a Side Effect and then set up a Twist of Fate. Atlas threw Hornswoggle into the ring to distract Hardy. Atlas then surprised Hardy with a clothesline. Finlay hit Henry with the shillelagh. Swagger kicked Finlay in the face. Hardy surprised Swagger with a Twist of Fate for the win.

WINNER: Hardy & Finlay in 12:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Basic okay tag match. I'd have wanted to give Swagger a little more time to shine in his national Smackdown debut than what they gave him here, especially coming off of an ECW Title. Having the heel champ lose to the babyface former champ or challenger is a tried and true proven booking technique, but with someone as new as Swagger, it might not have been ideal.

2 -- R-TRUTH vs. BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel Jackson)

Truth dominated early. Kendrick took over with a surprise kick as the ref was talking to Truth. He controlled the next few minutes with a leglock and then a chinlock. He went for The Kendrick, but Truth avoided it and came back with his rolling scissors kick for the win almost out of nowhere.

WINNER: Truth in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *

3 -- THE BIG SHOW vs. MVP -- Last Man Standing match

MVP jump-started the match with a chairshot from behind. As he swung the chair at him again at ringside, Show punched the chair out of his hands. MVP rolled into the ring to regroup and ready for Show's entrance. As Show tried to enter, MVP kicked him to the floor. Show eventually swatted MVP aside and entered the ring, then caught his running boot attempt and sent him tumbling to the floor at 2:00.

Show went after MVP on the floor. MVP rolled back into the ring. Ross complimented MVP's "Hit and Run" strategy. Show shoved MVP to the floor seconds later and this time caught up with him on the floor. He clubbed him across the back with his forearm. At 4:00 Show whipped MVP into the steps. Tazz wondered what Triple H's advice was for MVP. MVP moved out of the path of a charging Show, then leaped off the ring apron and dropkicked Show into the ringpost at 5:00. They cut to a break after Show again swatted away an MVP kick.

After the break, Show slapped MVP across the cheat and then smiled with a sense of satisfaction. He continued the methodical beatdown of MVP, including lifting him by his head and throwing him to the mat. MVP came back with a sleeper at 12:00. MVP came back with a sleeper briefly, but when the action spilled to the floor, Show whipped MVP into the security wall. He sat on the steps at ringside as the ref began to count to ten MVP got up before ten. Show casually stood up and went back to work. Show grabbed MVP by his lapels. That infuriated Show, went aggressively went after MVP with a suplex on the ramp. MVP rolled all the way off the ramp to the floor where the ref began counting again. MVP stood up before ten. Show chopped him hard in the chest. Show pressed and threw MVP onto the stage. Show lifted MVP for a chokeslam. Triple H ran out and hit Show from behind with a sledgehammer. Both men went down. The ref began counting. Triple H yelled at MVP, encouraging him to stand up. The crowd chanted, "MVP, MVP." He did stand up with help from the WWE logo on the stage. The ref raised MVP's arm. When was the last time that happened? The camera zoomed in on Show really selling the pain from the sledgehammer shot.

WINNER: MVP in 16:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- The definition of lumbering, but still well played out. I'm not sure if MVP's losing streak ending needed to be done that way under circumstances where he wasn't even the main focus of the match or angle.

4 -- VICTORIA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL

Ross said this is Victoria's last match in WWE. "Victoria's retiring," he said. She went after McCool at ringside, and then pounded her head back in the ring. Ross said she's had an amazing career in WWE and wanted to dedicate this match to the troops. She hit a standing moonsault for a near fall at 1:00. Ross noted the referee for this match, Jack Doan, was back from shoulder surgery. She scored another near fall at 2:00 after a superplex. Ross said Victoria's decision to retire came about rather abruptly. He said a lot of tears were shed earlier in the day as she said her goodbyes to a lot of people. McCool came back and began working over Victoria's leg, ramming it over the edge of the ring apron. Victoria made a comeback at 5:00 with a backslide for a near fall. She set up her Widow's Peak finisher, but her leg buckled and McCool escaped and her Styles Clash finisher, now titled the "Faith Breaker." Victoria lay in the ring afterward soaking up the moment as McCool paced around the ring celebrating.

WINNER: McCool in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Good TV women's match. Longer than usual, which was a nice show of respect giving Victoria time for a full-fledged match on TV instead one of those one minute deals.

-Edge made his full ring intro for "The Cutting Edge" segment.

-Edge said as an elite athlete, he's learned to block out distractions. He said his only focus lately has been to take back his WWE Championship from Jeff Hardy. He said lately that's been difficult because every week there seems to be a new distraction trying to shift his focus, such as very private photos of his wife being plastered all over WWE.com. He said words won't due justice this story, so instead they made a movie. He pointed to the big screen and a video aired of Jeff Hardy's WWE Title victory. Edge called Hardy's title reign "an embarrassing, irrational period" in WWE history. He laughed and said that's just a slight glimpse of the preview. He said the movie ends at the Royal Rumble when Hardy's only WWE Title reign was an accident. He doesn't just want to tell the fans, he wants to tell Hardy in person.

Jeff Hardy's ring intro aired and as he danced on the stage, the pyro show got out of hand and engulfed him. He went down in pain, grabbing at his face. Ross gasped, "What?" A trainer ran to the back for help. Jimmy Wang Yang was the first out, calling for help. Hurricane Helms was next out, followed by trainers. They went to shots of concerned fans in the crowd. A stretcher was brought out. R-Truth ran out next to help him onto the stretcher. Hardy covered his face as they rolled him onto the backbrace. Vickie stepped out to a chorus of boos and observed. It's a little weird they went the backbrace route for facial burns. They replayed the pyro engulfing him from several angles as the crowd fell silent. Hardy was rolled to the back, still covering his face, as the crowd chanted "Hardy, Hardy" and the show ended without further comments.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Good edition of Smackdown. It hardly felt like a throwaway B-show that's been to often this decade. The show-closing angle was well-done. Realistic, but tasteful. The Show-MVP build up and execution and follow-up was all sharp. The filler matches were solid, too.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 20 2009, 11:12 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29375.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- BATTLE ROYALE match

A few seconds into the match, the lights went down and out. Lawler covered that Kane was having another entrance. Lights came back on a few seconds later, then all of the heels ganged up on Kane and Kofi until Legacy decided to dump Santino out of the ring at 1:00.

Legacy then dumped Kofi over the top rope, leaving Kane against the Legacy. Out went Cody Rhodes very quickly. DiBiase then skinned the cat before coming back into the ring to nearly eliminate everyone, but Orton held onto the top rope and won because only one of his feet hit the ring. Afterward, Orton celebrated with his boys in the ring.

WINNER: Randy Orton at 1:50. Well, that was insanely short for a battle royale. And they went to sell a Rumble PPV on Sunday? (n/a)

2 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY -- non-title match

Kelly sporting a Chicago Blackhawks half-jersey to get the local cheers. Beth quickly shoved Kelly down to the mat before Kelly kicked back only to take a big chest smash. Fans were hot with a "Kelly, Kelly" chant before Beth nailed her sit-out facebuster for the pin.

WINNER: Beth at 1:30. Quick squash for Beth to set up her title match against Melina at the Rumble.

3 -- IC champion WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) vs. C.M. PUNK -- Intercontinental Title match -- No DQ

Punk landed some stiff kicks to the chest in the ongoing, then Regal rolled to the floor to recover. Punk blocked a suplex on the floor, then rammed him into the ringpost and nailed a kick to the back. Back in the ring, Punk snapped off a suplex before landing more leg blows to the back. Let's get a break.

Back from break, Regal was in trouble with Punk locking him in a submission hold inside the ropes. Punk locked that sucker in forever with no five count in a No DQ, so Layla pulled Punk off. The distraction allowed Regal to smash Punk onto the ring apron. Back in the ring, Regal went to work on Punk with submission holds. Suddenly, they had a standing exchange with forearm blows until Punk landed a spinning backfist and a roundhouse kick to the head. Punk made a cover, but only a two count at 8:00.

Punk with the high knee in the corner, but Regal blocked the bulldog and hit a half-nelson release suplex that dropped Punk straight on his neck. Geez. Regal made a cover, but only a two count. Regal went back to work, then wanted the big knee smash, but Punk ducked and wanted the G2S (huge pop for the tease). Regal fought the hold with repeated elbow smashes, but Punk dropped him with the G2S for the pin and the win to set off a wild celebration in Chicago. Punk soaked up the moment for a few minutes while they replayed the finish and stayed in the moment for quite some time. Nice to see that.

WINNER: C.M. Punk at 9:50 to capture the IC Title. Stiff as a mother match. Excellent work by both men with plenty of intensity and a great exchange of offense. Punk nearly breaking his neck was a momentary setback, but a great 10-minute TV bout nevertheless. (***)

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. MIKE KNOX

Rey quickly knocked Knox to the floor, then wanted a dropkick, but Knox clotheslined him from his knees on Rey's level. Rey then slingshot Knox across the ring and wanted the 619, but Knox caught his legs and "disconnected the call" before whiplashing Rey throat-first across the middle rope. Knox then wiped the blood off his mouth and began attacking Rey with a vicious beating in the corner. Ref DQ'ed him for not breaking a five count, then Knox went back for more by nailing the Knox Out in center ring.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio via DQ at 2:50. Just fine to keep the storyline going. Did I just write that? Not right. We'll see where this goes before passing judgment this week. (*)

5 -- World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) -- non-title match

CT stole the victory in less than two minutes running referee interference to set up Shad for a front slam on Morrison for the pin. Miz was beside himself afterward.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme at 1:30. Another too-short match tonight. Promo exchange was more intriguing than the match, which is typical for this feud. (1/2*)

6 -- MELINA vs. JILLIAN HALL

A few seconds into the action, Beth, Santino, and Rosa walked to the ringside area while Jillian yanked on Melina's hair in the corner. Jill nearly botched a move, but slammed Melina to the mat. Out of the corner, Melina rolled through on Jillian with a sunset flip pin for the win. Post-match: Rosa jumped into the ring to earn her keep by attacking Melina, which allowed Beth to sneak into the ring and gave her the chicken wing front-face slam to set up their match at the Rumble. Afterward, Beth stormed out of the ring, leaving Santino to ponder things.

WINNER: Melina at 1:20. Just a quick set-up for the Rumble. (1/2*)

Last part of the show was Vince McMahon's return, Chris Jericho groveling for his job and finished with Randy Orton kicking in Vince's head. Show went 18 minutes over...about the length of the combined matches in the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 22 2009, 07:00 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 1-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29405.shtml)

1 -- RICKY ORTIZ vs. ADAM EVANS

Ortiz needs to turn heel or just go away. Crowd quiet as Ortiz easily worked over Evans, who over-did the selling of a weak-looking backbreaker. Grisham said Ortiz is still trying to "find his way here in ECW." In other words, he isn't that good in the ring. Ortiz attempted a side belly-to-back suplex and managed not to break the dude's neck before landing a football shoulder tackle. Ortiz then pulled out the rally towel, which drew boos. Ortiz then landed the Big O splash for the pin and the win. Post-match: Swagger took the mic and looked for the cheap pop asking Chi-Town for their support. He told them to "Rally Up." Ortiz then walked over to a fan on the front row and gave him a towel. Fan really didn't want the towel, but he accepted to be nice.

WINNER: Ortiz in 2:00. Let the crowd response indicate the direction of the character. Either turn him heel or send him away. (n/a)

2 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Striker said Burchill has an "interesting workout regiment." Couldn't see the match, as Boogeyman's ring entrance smoke hovered over the ring for the length of the match. So much for McMahon taking wrestling out of smoke-filled arenas. Fans chanted Boogeyman's name, then Katie snuck into the ring and kicked Boogey in the back to cause a DQ. Boogey clotheslined Burchill to the floor and chased after Katie. He tossed her into the ring and teased the worms down the throat, but Burchill pulled his sis out of the ring. They took off running to avoid Boogey.

WINNER: Boogeyman via DQ in 2:00. Eh. Would have liked to have seen this given a chance to test the limits of both wrestlers with at least five minutes. Yes, as torturous as that could be, but they need to find out whether either one can do anything of substance on this show. (n/a)

3 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. World tag champion THE MIZ vs. World tag champion JOHN MORRISON

One pin or submission ends the match tonight. They did some Rumble spots early on, including Finlay dumping Morrison over the top rope to the floor. Cut to break.

Miz and Morrison tried to double up on Henry, but Henry fought them off easily with a round of clotheslines. Finlay then snuck in behind Henry and wanted a second rope splash, but Henry caught him, dropped him to his feet, and kicked him to the mat. Finlay then came back with a DDT on Henry before Miz and Morrison dropkicked Henry underneath the bottom rope to the floor. Tag champs then stomped on Finlay before giving him a double gut-buster. Things slowed down considerably as Finlay fought the champs in an odd fashion.

Henry decided he was done with things, despite Tony's pleadings, so he walked off. Meanwhile, Horny with a tadpole splash on Morrison. Finlay then dropped Miz with the Celtic Cross, but Morrison prevented a pin with a stiff knee smash to the face. Morrison then covered Miz ? for the pin and the win. Morrison declared himself victorious while Miz was shocked that his partner pinned him. A little Shelley-Sabin deal here. Grisham said it's every man for himself at the Rumble on Sunday. Morrison posed once more while Miz remained annoyed to close the show.

WINNER: John Morrison in 10:00. Had some rough patches, but a nice finish to (a) build-up the Rumble and (b) preview the future and inevitable splitting-up of Miz and Morrison for singles pushes down the line. Not the epic hard-sell for Sunday to close the show, which I thought should have been the Swagger-Hardy pull-apart. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 24 2009, 10:55 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29452.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- X Division champion ALEX SHELLEY vs. CHRIS SABIN vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. SONJAY DUTT (w/So Cal Val) -- X Division Title match

Reinstated ref Sewell has the ref assignment tonight. Apparently there's a deal where Sheik and Dutt are working together. Ya know, for the same reasons Kong, Bolt, and Rhaka are together. Dutt and Bashir decided to let the Guns start off against other, then they snuck in behind after an initial stand-off. At 4:00, Sharmell walked down to ringside to get a close look at the action, presumably due to Shane's presence as ref since Shane confronted Booker T at the PPV. Dutt scored a nearfall at 5:00, then Shelley awkwardly rolled him up from behind with Sabin occupying Sheik to score the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelley in 6:00 to retain the X Division Title. Fine action, but too many attempted highspots without any flow to tell a memorable story. They just need to find one solid storyline within the Division to focus on, and start re-building the division. Otherwise, these matches are just there to be there. (*)

2 -- SOJOURNER BOLT vs. ODB

It's been like half-an-hour since we had a match here. No Kongtourage out with Bolt tonight. Tenay announced ODB vs. Kong for the Knockouts Title at the Against All Odds PPV. Sojo jumped ODB from behind to jump-start the action. A few minutes into the action, Awesome Kong stormed the ring and put the boots to ODB to cause a DQ. Post-match: Kong gave ODB the implant buster while the Kongtourage came into the ring. Roxxi and Taylor Wilde then stormed the ring to clear the heels as back-up for ODB.

WINNER: ODB via DQ in 3:00. We finally get a match on this show and it ends with a DQ in a few minutes. Eh. Same chapter, different paragraph with this feud that will never end. (n/a)

3 -- MAIN EVENT MAFIA (SCOTT STEINER & Legends champion BOOKER T w/Sharmell) vs. FRONTLINE (ERIC YOUNG & PETEY WILLIAMS) -- Elimination match

Before the match started, Don West mentioned the Team Canada connection between Petey and Eric Young. First time I've thought of A-1 in probably a year. Match started with Young and Booker exchanging holds. Mafia took control and started working over Young in their corner. They eventually beat him down to score an easy pinfall on Young, leaving Petey by himself against the Mafia.

Back from break at the top of the hour, they recapped how the Mafia beat down on Petey during the commercial. Steiner talked trash, then chucked Petey over the top rope, but Petey skinned the cat back into the ring and landed right hand blows on Steiner. Petey tried to land a ton of blows on Steiner to pummel him, but Steiner ducked to the floor for a breather.

Booker then got his tag to get a piece of Petey. He quickly subdued Petey before landing trademark chops to the chest. He missed with a leg scissors, though, and Petey landed a dropkick for a two count. Booker came right back with a powerslam before pulling up on a pin attempt to inflict more damage. Steiner tagged in and Petey landed a tornado DDT, but Steiner kicked out. Petey wanted the Destroyer, but Booker superkicked him to set up Steiner for a top rope fallaway slam. Steiner had the pin, but he pulled up to inflict more damage.

At 11:00, Booker had another pin, but he pulled up before a three count. Booker then delivered the axe kick in center ring to KO Petey. He had the pin and decided to get the three count this time. Afterward, Shane was upset with the treatment of Petey there. He then raised Booker and Steiner's hands in victory while shaking his head in disgust. Booker suddenly slapped Shane across the face and talked trash to him. Shane then Shaned Up and spun around to punch Booker. Steiner cut him off, though, and Booker gave him the book-end in center ring. Shane took a beating, then ref Earl Hebner tried to make the save, but he was scared of Steiner and Booker, who snapped on Shane. Sharmell tried to talk some sense into him as Hebner finally was able to enter the ring to check on Shane.

WINNERS: Booker & Steiner in 12:00. Very dominating victory for the Mafia to re-establish control. Also a case study in how to book a babyface to look sympathetic and ready to see him get revenge (Shane) and how to book a babyface to look pathetic for not being able to back-up a sneak attack (Petey). (*3/4)

4 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. ABYSS & MATT MORGAN -- First Blood non-title match

BMI came to the ring after the break, but the male companions attacked the champs on the ramp to start a ringside brawl. Tenay and West said refs are standing around with towels to check for the first blood in this one. The action moved to the ring where Abyss wedged a chair in the turnbuckles to set up Roode, but Roode blocked a corner splash and hit a Blockbuster from the middle rope. Roode then landed right hand blows on Abyss, but no blood. Roode then took the chair to the face missing in the corner on Abyss, but no blood.

Morgan brought Storm back into the ring and landed elbow smashes, but no blood. Roode and Abyss battled to the floor and Roode got the better of that to re-enter the ring and smash Morgan with a belt shot. No blood, though. Abyss then walked back into the ring and took a kick from Storm. He wanted the Last Call superkcik, but Abyss blocked and nailed a chokeslam. BMI then tried to double-team Abyss and they nailed a suplex. Roode wanted a chairshot, but Morgan grabbed the chair from behind and cleared the heels to the corner. What came next was the inevitable of Morgan turning on Abyss with a chair shot to the head that opened up Abyss's forehead to give BMI the win.

Post-match: Morgan licked his lips and then opened up Abyss with a flurry of punches and kicks. Morgan cleared out the mall cops trying to run security, then the camera focused on the leaky faucet releasing blood from Abyss's forehead. Morgan landed another chair shot to the head. Yes, more chair shots to the head involving Abyss because Abyss desperately wants to be lumped in that "Abdullah, Funk, Foley" category. Morgan shouted down to Abyss that he did this to himself.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 6:00. All about the follow-up with Abyss and Morgan. Match was standard brawl-around-the-arena TNA fare. (*1/4)

5 -- A.J. STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE -- Tables match

West pointed out Styles has virtually zero back-up tonight with Rhino still out with an injury from the PPV, Joe injured, Foley in Europe, and Jarrett out of commission. What about ODB? She's probably recovered from her beating. Match started with Angle on the offensive grounding Styles on the mat.

Before they cut to a break, Styles knocked Angle to the floor, then Angle tried to roll back into the ring to avoid Styles's offense and a potential trip through a table. Cut to break with Angle on the defensive.

They returned from break with Angle in control and going for a table. West gave us a word on how dangerous the tables actually are when people take it for granted. Angle brought the furniture into the ring and Angle paused to survey a cut on his thumb. Deep cut at that, as the camera focused on blood coming out of his right palm near the thumb while Angle had a headlock on Styles. Angle unfolded the table at 8:00 and set up Styles for a top rope move through the wood, but Styles fought him off. They had a right-hand blow exchange before Styles crotched Angle on the edge of the table. Ouch.

At 10:00, Styles made his full-fledged comeback and stalked Angle for a potential trip through the wood, but Angle got to his feet and forearmed Styles to the ring apron. Styles answered with the springboard flying forearm that brushed Angle on the head. Styles wanted the Clash, but Angle blocked, only to have Styles roll through, but Angle countered with the anklelock. Styles escaped and then nailed a Pele kick on Angle. Styles put Angle on the table, then went up top, but Angle cat-quick hopped up top to block Styles. Angle then grappled Styles and nailed the Angle Slam through the table in center ring for the win.

WINNER: Angle in 12:00. Good, decisive TV main event. Styles had enough offense to remain credible before setting up the post-match. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 25 2009, 10:11 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29482.shtml)

(1) U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. THE UNDERTAKER. Looking forward to watching this based on Greg Parks's report, although I'm not a big fan of throwing out Taker matches on free TV without build-up. He needs the Shawn Michaels treatment of having his free TV matches treated like a huge deal to increase his PPV drawing power for the last stage of his career.

Shelton had a great counter at 8:00, taking Taker out of the chokeslam into a leaping DDT for a nearfall. Ross with a nice piece of commentary that he thought Shelton scored a three count based on the position of the ref's hand. Shelton then got caught on Taker, who locked in the Devil's Gate triangle choke out of nowhere for the tap-out victory. WINNER: Taker in 11:00. Very nice match. Shelton looked good in defeat to Taker with several close nearfalls. (**1/2)

(2) GREAT KHALI beat CHAVO GUERRERO in 2:00. Khali has that "Ultimate Warrior" babyface vibe that fans react when he comes out (not to the level of Warrior), but then the match starts and people lose interest. Khali with the chokebomb for the pin and the win. Effectively built up Khali as a threat in the Rumble (like Taker) and showed that Chavo is a fool working for aunt Vickie if she's going to book him in an obvious squash. (n/a)

(3) NIKKI & BRIE BELLA no-contest MICHELLE McCOOL & NATALYA in 2:00. New divas champion Maryse was out on commentary, making her first TV appearance since the house show injury in December. Couldn't understand half of what she said, but that wasn't the point based on the outfit. Suddenly, Maria stormed the ring to jump McCool, causing the match to be thrown out. Michelle eventually got the best of Maria and kneed her into the guardrail. More focus on Michelle, but disappointing use of Natalya.

(3) MATT HARDY vs. EDGE -- No DQ. Weapons entered play at 3:00, bringing up an "E-C-dub" chant from three people near an arena mic. Crowd was hot for the vile exchange, which included a trashcan lid shot to the head. Why the continued use of weapon shots to the head in 2009? Crowd was hot for the brawl, which was interrupted by Mark Henry at 6:00. Hardy fought him off, hit the Twist on Edge, but ECW champ Jack Swagger interrupted and gutwrench powerbombed Hardy. Good to see Swagger in a position of strength on Smackdown this week. Edge with the spear on a lifeless Hardy for the win. WINNER: Edge in 7:00. Nice brawl to set up Edge vs. Jeff and Swagger vs. Matt at the Rumble. Putting those four together would be a heck of a tag match coming out of the Rumble, by the way. (**)

(4) World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. WWE tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON. Tazz talked up his WWE debut at the 2000 Royal Rumble. No mention that Tazz beat Kurt Angle. Good, fast-paced action here. Morrison and Carlito exchanged great nearfalls with counters of roll-ups, then Morrison gave Carlito then high knee to the jaw. Miz made a blind tag and Carlito didn't see it when he gave Mo the backstabber. Miz then rolled up Carlito from behind for the win. WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 12:00. Good second-half to the tag match. Primo doesn't jump off the screen like M&M, but he's effective in his secondary role to Carlito. Nice match. Much better undercard on Smackdown this week compared to recent shows. (**)

(5) TRIPLE H vs. KOSLOV. Koslov's unbeaten record is on the line here. Two minutes into the deal, Vickie excused herself on stage to change things up. Someone is missing from the match. Now, it's a handicap match with Big Show as the other opponent. Apparently Vickie wasn't in the mood to watch another slow-down-drag-out between Hunter and Koslov from Survivor Series.

(5b) TRIPLE H vs. KOSLOV & BIG SHOW. Hunter was on the defensive early on in this one. Koslov lost control for the heels, and Hunter gave him a spinebuster before Show KO'ed Hunter to block a Pedigree. Koslov then scooped up Hunter and gave him a modified Rock Bottom for the pin and the win. WINNERS: Koslov & Show in 7:00. Afterward, Vickie was very pleased with herself and clapped it up. Soft sell going into the Rumble without much excitement to close the show. Excitement is more important than "babyface in jeopardy" to sell the Rumble PPV, so I disagree with the tone to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 26 2009, 01:56 pm
WWE Royal Rumble Results: 1-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_29510.shtml). To view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8596 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2658112&postcount=8596) and posts thereafter. Entry and Elimination list updates will be shown at Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8603 (direct link). (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2658157&postcount=8603). Ongoing summary of the match will be updated at Neo-Geo: Official WWE Thread Post #8604 (direct link). (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2658162&postcount=8604)

1 -- ECW champion JACK SWAGGER vs. MATT HARDY -- ECW Title match

WINNER: Swagger in 11:00 to retain the ECW Title. Good opening match and a solid PPV debut for Swagger. Some close nearfalls at the end got the crowd involved for the rest of the show. Announcers were solid, as usual. (**3/4)

2 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella) vs. MELINA -- Women's Title match

WINNER: Melina in 6:00 to capture the Women's Title. Slow moments in this one, but some really innovative spots, such as Beth forcing Melina to repeatedly kick herself on the rear end. Good showing from both. (*1/2)

3 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. JBL (w/Shawn Michaels) -- World Heavyweight Title match

WINNER: John Cena in 16:00 to retain the World Title. They sure did a nice job of putting Cena in jeopardy of losing the World Title at least two or three times in this one. Nice, dramatic sequence of events with Shawn Michaels making himself the ultimate babyface dropping both men with sweet chin music, then washing his hands of the mess. Great WWE main event heavyweight style match. (***1/2)

4 -- WWE champion JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE (w/Chavo Guerrero) -- WWE World Title match -- No DQ match

WINNER: Edge in 20:00 to capture the WWE Title. Very good gimmick match, which WWE saved for this point in the card and doesn't do often to begin with. Nicely done. We knew the storyline was going to either Matt turning on Jeff or Christian returning to help Edge, so it was only a matter of waiting for the final finish after a series of false finishes. Great storytelling. Follow-up on Matt vs. Jeff will be key. (***1/2)

5 -- ROYAL RUMBLE MATCH

Post-match: Orton stood tall with the Legacy in the ring. Ross said Orton is guaranteed a championship match at WrestleMania 25. Orton then stood alone in the ring and pointed to the WM 25 sign hanging above the arena while spotlights shot out from the arena. Ross said Orton is going to Mania to become a champion. Ross reiterated the point that it's guaranteed, implying the McMahons can't do anything about it. Orton pointed to the WM 25 sign as a huge fireworks display shot off from the 25 banner. Orton sternly celebrated one more time to close the show.

WINNER: Randy Orton at 58:10.

Entry
1 - Rey Mysterio
2 - John Morrison
3 - Carlito
4 - MVP
5 - Great Khali
6 - Kozlov
7 - Triple H
8 - Randy Orton
9 - Cryme Tyme member JTG
10 - Ted DiBiase, Jr.
11 - Chris Jericho
12 - Mike Knox
13 - The Miz
14 - Finlay
15 - Cody Rhodes
16 - The Undertaker
17 - Goldust
18 - C.M. Punk
19 - Mark Henry
20 - Shelton Benjamin
21 - William Regal
22 - Kofi Kingston
23 - Kane
24 - R-Truth
25 - RVD
26 - The Brian Kendrick
27 - Dolph Ziggler
28 - Santino Marella
29 - Hacksaw Jim Duggan
30 - Big Show

Elimination
1 - Great Khali via Kozlov
2 - MVP via Kozlov
3 - Carlito via Kozlov
4 - Kozlov via Triple H
5 - The Miz via Triple H
6 - Morrison via Triple H
7 - JTG via Undertaker
8 - Goldust via Cody Rhodes
9 - Mark Henry via Rey Mysterio
10 - Shelton Benjamin via The Undertaker
11 - William Regal via C.M. Punk
12 - Kofi Kingston via The Brian Kendrick
13 - The Brian Kendrick via Triple H
14 - Dolph Ziggler via Kane
15 - Santino Marella via Kane
16 - Jim Duggan via Big Show
17 - R-Truth via Big Show
18 - C.M. Punk via Big Show
19 - Rey Mysterio via Big Show (49:30)
20 - Mike Knox via Big Show
21 - Finlay via Kane
22 - RVD via Chris Jericho
23 - Chris Jericho via The Undertaker
24 - Kane via Cody, DiBiase, and Orton
25 - Big Show via Undertaker
26 - Undertaker via Legacy and Big Show
27 - Ted DiBiase via Triple H
28 - Cody Rhodes via Triple H
29 - Triple H via Randy Orton
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 27 2009, 02:32 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29549.shtml) To view condensed in-ring results including the opening and closing segments, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8615. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2658862&postcount=8615)

1 -- World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) -- World tag title match
WINNERS: Miz & Morrison in 4:00. Disappointing tag match in the sense that it wasn't given much time. Action was fine while it lasted, though. (*)

2 -- KANE vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match
WINNER: Kofi at 1:52. Another too-short TV match, but exciting during the two minutes. Are they giving HBK vs. Cena 45 minutes or booking another 25-minute show-closing segment and need to fit in without a reprimand from USA Network for going 18 minutes over last week? Time for version 35 of Kane-finds-his-monster-ways-again after going on another losing streak. (*)

3 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- non-title match -- JBL qualifies for Elimination Chamber w/HBK win
WINNER: Cena at 12:40. Very good on the storytelling aspect of the match. Action was a bit off at times, but still a good piece of business to advance storylines to WrestleMania. Not at the level of their match two weeks ago. (**3/4)

4 -- Women's champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX & JILLIAN HALL
WINNERS: Beth & Jillian at 2:30. Fine divas match, but another shortie. Glamarella needs something to spice things up. Seems like repeat TV every week. Rosa isn't going to cut it either. (1/2*)

5 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match
WINNER: Rey at 3:45 to advance to the Chamber. It seemed like they cut out 30 seconds of the Rey comeback before he suddenly hit the 619 and splash for the win, especially after Regal was dominating and in no position to be weak enough to set up a logical pinning sequence from Rey. Tough to suspend disbelief there. (*)

6 -- Intercontinental champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match
WINNER: Jericho at 3:20. Maybe it's the trunks vs. long pants, but Jericho is looking a bit chunkier these days. Another too-short match and not exactly the best way to promote the IC Title belt after Punk's win last week. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 28 2009, 02:31 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 1-27-09

Only 2 matches on the card tonight. Results courtesy as always from PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29586.shtml)

1 -- FINLAY vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Striker said Burchill is tough because Terry Funk picked him for a series of hardcore matches in the U.K. recently. First foreshadowing for Funks in the 2009 Hall. Finlay in here to test out Burchill and see if he's national-TV ready. Action was pretty slow, so Horny got involved with Katie at 3:00 and distracted Burchill in the process. Hornswoggle then disappeared under the ring and Finlay kicked Burch in the face.

Back in the ring, Finlay went on the offensive and hit a rolling gutbuster for a two count. The move cut Finlay over the eye and opened him up pretty good. Grisham equated Belfast, N. Ireland to Cleveland for its weather and blue-collar work ethic. Finlay then finished off Burchill with the Celtic Cross for the win. Afterward, Finlay bowed to Katie, who didn't appreciate the gesture. They continued to make eye contact while Katie checked on big brother.

WINNER: Finlay in 5:00. Decisive victory to set up Finlay for a potential ECW Title feud against Swagger. Meanwhile, Burch continues to be Burch. Katie has a ton of potential and will break out soon enough. (*1/4)

2 -- MARK HENRY vs. TOMMY DREAMER

"E-C-W" chant after the opening bell sounded. Henry quickly went to work on Dreamer with a mat-based attack. In other words, very slow paced action. Grisham told us a story about Henry getting WrestleMania ticket requests from his family considering the proximity of Silsbee to Houston, but Henry said he told them all no because he doesn't want anyone there but himself. Striker one-upped, saying he went to the movies with Henry to see NOTORIOUS and Henry cut to the front of the line because he can. Great storytelling from the announcers to flesh out the character during the slow period of the match. Dreamer came back at 5:00 with the basement dropkick, then went up top for a crossbody splash, but Henry caught him in mid-air for the World's Strongest Slam and the win. Afterward, Henry had a good chuckle. Striker said Dreamer has a long road ahead of him to the ECW Title journey.

WINNER: Mark Henry in 6:00. Highlight was Grisham and Striker's commentary. They are simply great working together, telling compelling stories to enhance the characters. Match was okay. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 31 2009, 10:27 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29659.shtml) To view condensed version, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8630. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2661029&postcount=8630)

1 -- ODB vs. KONGTOURAGE (Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED & SOJOURNER BOLT & RHAKA KHAN)
WINNERS: Kongtourage in 4:00. Greatest call of a handicap match ever from Booker, who never stopped talking, his voice becoming lower and lower and lower as the match progressed. Nash was a good straight man, simply interjecting a thought or two when Booker took a breath. Match didn't matter based on TNA's presentation. (1/2*)

2 -- Legends champion BOOKER T vs. ANDREW THOMAS & RUDY CHARLES (w/Earl Hebner)
WINNER: Booker in 5:00. Gave new meaning to referee incompetence in TNA. Nash was simply great on commentary. Booker managed to drag out five minutes and tell a really nice story of complete dominance. Greatness. (n/a)

3 -- PETEY WILLIAMS vs. MATT MORGAN
WINNER: Morgan in 4:00. Oh wow. They managed to make Morgan look a complete goof, but still put him over, while Petey was sadly a part of this with no chance of benefiting. TNA parodying itself and the company's traditionally downright horrible booking is so great. I'm convinced TNA spent the last three years ***-backwards booking to build up tonight's greatness from the Mafia. (*)

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) -- handicap match
WINNER: Team 3D via DQ in 9:00. Booker was the story on this one, doing a number on everyone with the play-by-play. Match was inconsequential and forgettable, just like the other matches on this show, but Booker continued to be great with his irreverent take on the entire show. (*)

5 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. ABYSS -- Weapons match for Abyss only
WINNER: Abyss via DQ in 9:00. Fine weapons match, but another unlikable "babyface" character was featured here. This whole show was all-about creating dislike for any babyface character because of how great the Mafia was at making this show watchable. (*)

6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. LAX (HERNANDEZ & HOMICIDE) -- handicap match
WINNER: Angle in 13:00. Gave LAX some rub, but also showed they're incapable of winning big-time matches, even with a man-advantage. Okay conclusion to the show after such greatness in the first 75 minutes. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 01 2009, 09:50 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29669.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- R-TRUTH vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel Jackson)

R-Truth sang his song as he walked through the crowd to the ring. Ross said after hearing from Matt Hardy, how refreshing to hear from R-Truth. I'm wondering what Matt said isn't true, though? It's not like what Matt said was totally outlandish. It's not his feelings that were baseless, but it's his way of dealing with them that was shameful. Ross said it's despicable of Matt to blame the fans. He said the only person Matt cares about his Matt. The referee kicked Ezekiel back to the locker room before the bell. It appeared all he did was staredown R-Truth before the match and not get out of the ring as soon as the ref ordered him. Kendrick jump-started the match and dominated early. R-Truth came back with a corkscrew forearm and his scissors kick for the clean win.
WINNER: R-Truth in 2:00.

2 -- MVP vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Ross noted that it's been a rough week for weather in the U.S. and thanked fans for tuning in. He plugged other matches on the show including Mark Henry vs. Undertaker. Wen Ross pushed Vladimir Kozlov vs. Great Khali vs. Triple H, Tazz said, "That's a train wreck waiting to happen." Is he allowed to say that! He did did.
MVP avoided a frog splash at 4:00 and then hit the Drive By for the win.
WINNER: MVP in 4:00. Could they have had a more flat way to end MVP's winning streak then how they have with it at first being overshadowed by Triple H's situation and now beating Chavo in a throwaway match with nothing at stake?

3 -- UMAGA vs. JIMMY WANG YANG
Umaga won quickly and decisively with the Samoan Spike.
WINNER: Umaga in 2:00. We still know nothing about Umaga. He's a super heavyweight. He's agile. He rambles in some sort of gibberish tongue. He braids his hair intricately. He has tattoos. He's supposedly mean. I suppose that's enough, but barely, and the lack of any depth beyond that really holds him back from being anything but a mid-card novelty who occasionally visits the main events rather ineffectively. It's too bad the McMahon's have an irrational aversion to managers because if he had one to explain his motivations and more about his background, he has the rest of the package to make money. The one "manager" exception is Atlas, who adds very little to Henry's marketability.

4 -- UNDERTAKER vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)
Henry is still "The World's Strongest Man" (in the same way that Jimmy Wang Yang is a "Superstar"). Ross said Taker is custom-made for the Elimination Chamber. Tazz said he's never competed in an Elimination Chamber and he's happy about that. Taker walked the top rope, but it backfired as Henry caught him and slammed him into the corner. Atlas got in a cheapshot. After a Henry chinlock, Taker fought back. He ducked a Henry clothesline and came back with a flying shoulder tackle. He set up a chokeslam, but Atlas distracted him. Henry hit Taker from behind and knocked him to the floor. Taker knocked Atlas down, reentered the ring, hit a chokeslam, and then finished him with the finisher that Ross didn't call by name, so neither will I. Henry tapped out even before Taker had it locked on, and Taker seemed to lose his grip once or twice in the elaborate process of applying it.
WINNER: Undertaker in 6:00.
STAR RATING: * -- The formula match you'd expect from these two. Basic and watchable.

5 -- BIG SHOW vs. FESTUS (w/Jesse)
This match deserved more build-up. They're really dropped the ball on making something more out of Festus than a mid-card comedy act. Festus went for an early bear hug, but Show dropped him with a DDT. Festus's bump was nasty looking. He sold that well. Tazz called the chest the "pectorial" region, then told Ross that's the chest area, oblivious to the fact that he made up the word "pectorial." Festus came back at 1:00 briefly, but Show chopped him in the chest to stop him second later. Then he lifted him into a powerbomb position and then fell back and sent Festus face-first into the canvas. Then he finished him with a punch to the face. As Jesse ran in to check on Festus, Show chokeslammed him, too.
WINNER: The Big Show in 2:00. Man, WWE is just killing off the mid-card guys with upward mobility again. Festus vs. Show could have been intriguing and a selling point to build a TV show around or a solid supporting match on a PPV, but now Festus has been defined down as a two minute jobber to Show.

6 -- TRIPLE H vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. THE GREAT KHALI (w/Ranjin Singh) - A "Trainwreck Waiting to Happen" match
They triangled off at the start. Kozlov shoulder jabbed Triple H in the corner. Khali yanked him away and then beat on Triple H himself. Kozlov gave Khali a running knee from behind, then trash talked him. Khali chopped him down and gave him a boot to send him to the floor with a thud. Triple H stared at Khali as they cut to an early break at 1:00.

Triple H and Khali fought at ringside. Kozlov took over on Triple H inside the ring, scoring a two count after a powerslam. Triple H came back with a DDT at 7:00. Khali was nowhere to be seen for several minutes, knocked out at ringside. Kozlov scored another near fall after another slam. He took Triple H to the corner again, but when he charged, Triple H caught him with a boot to the face. Triple H came back with a knee to the face and a spinebuster. Khali re-entered the picture with a big chop to Triple H's head, then the head vice. . Kozlov broke it up with a headbutt to Khali's chest. Triple H ducked a Kozlov charge, so Kozlov flew over the top rope to the floor. Triple H gave Khali a sloppy looking Pedigree which Khali didn't know how to take very well for the win.
WINNER: Triple H in 11:00.
STAR RATING: 3/4* -- I've seen much worse. It was what it was and what you'd expect from these three. It probably qualified as a train wreck, but not an especially bad one as train wrecks go.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 03 2009, 03:04 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29730.shtm") Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Intercontinental champion C.M. PUNK & MICKIE JAMES vs. WILLIAM REGAL & LAYLA

Lawler surmised that Regal has a permanent scowl after eating some bad peanut butter. Too soon. I'm waiting for Layla to throw her shoe at Punk in this one. Punk busted out a series of hard kicks to Regal's body, then to the face that cleared Regal to the floor. Regal tried to use Layla as a human shield, but Mickie took out Layla with a running splash from the apron. Punk, distracted, then ate the floor when Regal yanked him out of the ring. Mickie checked on Punk, who tried to recover before the ten count. Punk barely crawled into the ring, sticking his head out across the bottom rope. Regal took advantage with a running knee to the head for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Regal & Layla at 3:20. Quick match, but put Punk in jeopardy for next week's IC Title match. Here we go with another series of short TV matches this week. (3/4*)

2 -- PRICELESS (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES) vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG)

Ref called for a DQ very quickly in this one. Not sure who was disqualified, as Shad was working on DiBiase in the corner. Perhaps Cody was in the ring too long as the illegal man? In any event, Priceless took Shad apart with a double-team front-face slam to cap off the segment. Ref admonished them, then refs checked on Shad, who remained out cold in the ring.

WINNERS: No Contest in 3:00. No official decision was ever announced, so I'm going with Cryme Tyme picking up the win because Cody was in there too long as the illegal man. Announcers had no clue what the decision was, either. If you want people to buy PPVs to see matches, it's best to get your stuff right on TV where the application of rules is conveyed to viewers. (1/2*)

3 -- MIKE KNOX & KANE vs. REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON

Kane was cleared to the outside like ten seconds into the match. Kofi then stood off against Knox as Cole said Rey and Kofi are rolling. How are they rolling? They had like one move right before the break, which came very suddenly. Apparently they really needed to grab that break.

Back from break, Kofi fought back against Kane and tagged out to Rey. Rey wanted the 619, but Kane wisely rolled to the floor. Rey followed with a seated sentaun running off the apron, but Kane uppercut him once they were back in the ring. Enter Knox, who stomped on Rey. Rey tried a springboard moonsault, but Knox caught him in mid-air. Rey managed to blind tag out to Kofi, though, who caught Knox by surprise and hit the boom-boom leg drop for a two count. Knox came back at 6:30 with a big bicycle kick on Kofi, who rolled a shoulder to escape a pin attempt.

Kane nearly lost control against Kofi, but Kane walked over to Rey and gave him a big boot to the face to knock him off the apron and prevent the hot tag. Kofi nailed a cross-body on Knox at 10:00, then Kofi went for the tag to Rey again, but Rey was nowhere to be found. Rey finally made his way back to the apron, but Kane yanked Kofi back to center ring. Kofi finally broke free and hot-tagged Rey, who landed a sick spin-over reverse DDT on Kane. Rey then dropped the dime with a springboard smash, but Knox broke up the pin. Kofi took out Knox, then knocked him to the floor. Kofi ate Knox's knee on a dive, and back in the ring, Kane was set up for the 619. Rey wanted it, but Knox grabbed Rey's legs in mid-air. Rey kicked him away, then wanted a springboard on Kane, but Kane caught him in mid-air and nailed a huge chokeslam for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kane & Knox at 11:40. Very nice tag match. Heck, we got ourselves a new tag team in WWE. Cole said it best that they're two of the strangest men in WWE, so they're a natural fit. It would be nice to see them jump to Smackdown as a tag team and give some heel star power to the brand holding the tag belts. Yes, I put Knox in a sentence with star power. That subtle promo he had two weeks ago was a career-changer. (**1/2)

4 -- BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino and Rosa Mendes) vs. CANDICE MICHELLE

Beth went to work on Candice and slammed her hard to the mat with a back suplex. Beth put her in the air for a gut wrench submission, but Candice slipped out into a roll-up for a two count. Candice began slapping/chopping Beth, then she went to the second rope for a turnaround spin kick. Santino was concerned as Candice continued on the offensive. Beth then came back with the double chicken-wing facebuster for the pin and the win. Afterward, Santino and Rosa celebrated with Beth, who wanted to pose herself.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 2:30. If you "placed your bets," there's your winner for shortest match of the night, won by Beth. Glamarella just isn't the same right now. (1/2*)

5 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match

This was a slugfest early on without much dependence on wrestling holds. Cena then busted out a running bulldog out of the corner after Cole made a point that it was St. Louis where Cena jumped to Raw in the 2005 Draft. Fans chanted Cena's name as he stalked Jericho for a sit-out slam. Cena then clotheslined Jericho to the floor and gave Jericho some time before running after him on the outside. Jericho took advantage by kicking him away into the announce table. Cut to break.

Back from break, Jericho had Cena in a headlock. Cena started to fade as Jericho whispered sweet-nothings in Cena's ear. Jericho fed his arm to Cena, who wanted to power into the FU, but Jericho slipped out into a DDT for a two count. Cena recovered on the apron, then Jericho hit a springboard dropkick that sent Cena to the floor. Cena made it back into the ring at a nine count, and Jericho went back on the attack.

Jericho paintbrushed Cena at the top of the hour, then Cena pulled out a belly-to-belly suplex. Both men recovered on the mat before Jericho missed with a corner shoulder tackle and ate the ringpost. Cena built momentum with shoulder tackles before setting up the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena took forever, and Jericho popped to his feet to block the Five Knuckle Shuffle. They went into an exchange of pins before having a battle of right hand blows. Jericho cut off a shoulder tackle with an elbow, then he hit a Lionsault for a two count at 10:30.

Cena got up, ducked a clothesline, and hit the sit-out slam before finishing off that Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted the FU, which Lawler re-called the Attitude Adjuster. Jericho slipped out, though, but Cena blocked the codebreaker. Another great exchange leading to Jericho slapping on the Walls of Jericho. Cena inched to the ropes as Jericho watched the hold on the Titantron to know when to yank Cena back into center ring. Jericho wasn't paying attention and Cena suddenly rolled through into a leglock for the STFU. Jericho instantly tapped out to put Cena's hold over huge.

Post-match: Cena celebrated in the ring as the announcers plugged Flair on Raw next week. Also, Taker vs. Orton in a WM 21 re-match. they closed with one final shot of Cena celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: John Cena via submission at 12:25. Very strong finish as usual between these two. Cena is pulling out some quality TV matches to start the year and Jericho had enough offense to retain credibility, outside of tapping out in less than two seconds to the STFU. Strong 30 minutes to conclude this show after a weak first 90 minutes. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 04 2009, 03:27 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 2-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29759.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Striker started us off with a note that this is the first-ever meeting between the two. We'll see how they fare tonight. Striker then took us to the Wrestling at the Chase program from St. Louis, which Larry Matysik wrote an awesome book on. He said Dreamer sat under the learning tree of Harley Race, who was the show, while Burchill wanted nothing to do with him. Dreamer hit the basement dropkick out of the tree of woe, but missed with the Dreamer DDT and Burchill nailed a neckbreaker for the pin after spending most of the match working on the neckbreaker. Todd Grisham said Dreamer's 19 year-career may winding down if he doesn't find some way to turn things around.

WINNER: Burchill in 4:00. Okay match. Burchill was effective working that neck to set up his finisher, which is a very basic-looking neckbreaker, to score a convincing win in four minutes. (*)

2 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Grisham said Boogeyman is from the Abyss, which is defined in the Bible as where demons are imprisoned. Don't tell him that. And don't tell him about Revelations 9:1-2. Noble put up a fight early on, including a knee smash from the second rope. Boogey kicked out at one, though, and Noble went to work on the neck muscles. Boogey made an awkward comeback at 3:00 and knocked down Noble with a series of clotheslines before stalking him for a corner splash. Boogey grunted, then picked up Noble and gave him the big pumphandle slam for the pin and the win. Noble wisely slipped out of the ring post-match to avoid the worm dinner.

WINNER: Boogeyman in 4:00. Silence is not golden. Boogey is an antiquated character from the mid-'90s WWF era that crowds simply aren't responding to. The character is aimed at kids, but they're not even responding. (1/2*)

3 -- ECW champion JACK SWAGGER vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) -- non-title match

Lock-up to start things off. Swagger took Finlay down with a rear waistlock and powered Finlay down to the mat. Aren't too many folks who can power Finlay down like that. Finlay then got under Swagger's skin and frustrated the young heel champion. Swagger took a break at 4:00 to regroup as Finlay looked on confidently inside the ring. Let's get a break.

Finlay was still in control out of the break. Finlay with a small package at 10:00 for a nearfall, then Swagger came right back with a straight right hand punch. He landed a stiff-sounding elbow to the face before landing a boot to the face. Hornswoggle suddenly popped out of nowhere to distract Swagger, allowing Finlay to clothesline the champ to the floor. Finlay followed out, but Swagger rammed him back-first into the ring apron, then head-first into the ringpost. Swagger picked up the shillelagh and chucked it up stage, then rolled Finlay into the ring. Swagger took a while to get back in the ring, allowing Hornswoggle to sneak up behind Swagger with a second shillelagh and crack it over the ankle from behind. Swagger hobbled across the ring in pain, then Finlay nailed the Celtic Cross in center ring for the pin and the win to give Swagger his first ever singles match defeat. Finlay and Hornswoggle then celebrated post-match, with Finlay now in line for a title shot.

WINNER: Finlay in 12:00. Sure thought this was a title match, so quite the relief to see it wasn't after all. It might have been early to put the belt on Swagger, but it would have been way too early to take it off him after only a few weeks as champ. Match was fine - nothing flashy, but an effective battle of big men. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 07 2009, 07:45 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29806.shtml). Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL & CONSQUENCES CREED

Tenay compared the Guns to Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty during their ring intro. Beer Money attacked Lethal and Creed before the bell at ringside. They brawled into the crowd and at ringside for a couple minutes. They went into a split screen to try to track everything going on. Storm hit Creed in the elbow with a chair. Creed sold it big. Meanwhile, Shelley and Sabin just leaned in the corner of the ring and watched the brawl, staying complete out of it.

Back from the break, Lethal was battling Sabin. They showed a replay of trainers tending to Creed, who had to return to the back, leaving Lethal alone. Tenay said the indifference shown by Sabin and Shelley is really telling since they're stable-mates in the Front Line. Sabin leapfrogged a charging Sabin and then through the ropes onto Shelley. Sabin dove at Lethal, but Lethal sidestepped him. Back in the ring Lethal scored a one count on Shelley. Sabin mistakenly charged right into his partner Shelley in the corner. Sabin caught Lethal with a backbreaker a minute later. Really good, innovative action early on with good intensity, speed, and believability. At about 6:00 Eric Young came out and took Creed's place in the match. He tagged in, and the ref apparently allowed it for some preposterous reason that's just annoying, and he gave Shelley and Sabin a double-stacked Death Valley Driver to win.

WINNERS: Lethal & Young in 7:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Good while it lasted, except for the ridiculous finish. Imagine Kobe Bryant going down with an Ankle Sprain mid-game in the NBA Finals and out comes Dwayne Wade to take his place.

2 -- SHANE SEWELL vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR

Sewell made things really confusing by wearing a referee shirt and pants for the match. The crowd chanted "USA, USA" even though both wrestlers in the ring are from the United States. West plugged that former Illinois Rod Blagojevich was invited to join TNA. Tenay talked about him being impeached. Meanwhile Sewell went on a flurry of offense at 2:00 and scored a near fall. Bashir dove at Sewell, but hit the ref by mistake. With the ref down, both wrestlers collided mid-ring. Booker T came out wearing a referee shirt. Earl Hebner and Rudy Charles tried to stop him. Booker entered the ring and began counting both of them down. Booker T aided Bashir to his feet. Bashir climbed to the top rope and hit a flying legdrop, but Sewell moved. Sewell hit a top rope crossbody block. Booker paused before making a count, and instead stomped on Sewell's head. The bell began ringing. Sewell made a brief comeback before security intervened.

WINNER: No contest at 4:00.

3 -- ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY (w/Cute Kip) vs. TAYLOR WILDE & ROXXI

They brawled at ringside to start, with the BPs taking out their anger and embarrassment on Roxxi and Taylor. Roxxi and Taylor came back at 3:00, but within a minute the BPs finisher her with a double-team big boot on Roxxi.

WINNERS: The Beautiful People in 4:00.

-The BPs continued the beating afterward on both Roxxi and Taylor as Kip celebrated with them. Kip dragged Roxxi and Taylor to mid-ring at which point Love and Sky put paperbags over their heads. I'm starting to question whether Love and Sky have ever seen what actually happens at a slaughterhouse. "The Governor" ran out and gave Kip a low-blow and then beat down both Love and Sky. She tried to put paper bags on their heads, but they scurried out of the ring first.

4 -- SHARK BOY vs. BRUTUS MAGNUS

Magnus walked out basically doing a Chris Masters gimmick with a Gladiator twist. He looks like a generic chiseled MMA fighter. He established he's a heel by complaining to the ref about a slow count early. Tenay said Magnus wasn't especially approachable when seeking background info, but he told them to look out for his finisher called Tormentum. It turned out to be a twisting Samoan drop.

WINNER: Magnus in 2:00. He looked fine for an opening squash.

5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. RHINO

Morgan took control early. Rhino fought back at 2:00. Rhino went for a Gore, but Morgan ducked and fired back with his Carbon Footprint big boot. Tenay said Rhino is a step slow and less powerful now because of the MEM's beatdwn. Morgan brought a chair into the ring and signaled for the Hellivator. Abyss's music played. Morgan dropped Rhino. Abyss had bags of tacks with him. West said it was good to see the old Abyss back in the ring, willing to do anything and bring anything to the ring. Abyss gave Morgan a Black Hole Slam. Abyss poured a big bag of tacks onto the mat. Morgan saw the tacks and bailed out to ringside. Tenay said they meet one-on-one Sunday on PPV. West added that it'll be no holds barred.

WINNER: No contest in 3:00.

6 -- KURT ANGLE & STING vs. TEAM 3D

After back and forth action early, Angle went for an anklelock at 3:00 on Ray. Ray broke free and tagged in Devon. Sting offered to tag in. Angle gave him an "up yours" arm signal. Devon back suplexed Angle. West questioned Angle's strategy since he's taking a beating just to prove a point to Sting. Sting confronted Angle at ringside, saying he thought they were a family. Scott Steiner ran out to mediate.

During the break, Tenay said, it was all Angle on offense thanks to Steiner tripping Devon coming off the ropes. The ref ordered Steiner to the back as a result. Ray came back with a full nelson sitout powerbomb. Angle fired back with a back suplex a mintue later, and then he mouthed off to Sting. Angle got cocky and climbed to the top rope. Ray lifted Angle on his shouters and then Devon hit a top rope clothesline. Booker T ran in for the DQ before a pin could be made. Sting watched as Steiner joined in the fight. West said this three-on-two attack is a good move on MEM's part. Sting grabbed his baseball bat and watched the beat down. Booker and Angle got into an argument at Steiner held him back. Sting asked Angle, "Friend or foe? What's it going to be?" West asked, "Man, I can't wait until this Sunday." Steiner pleaded, "We're family, Kurt."

WINNERS: Team 3D via DQ (presumably) in 10:00.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 08 2009, 01:44 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29845.shtml)

(1) BATTLE ROYALE. Scotty "Colt" Goldman was tossed outside first. Poor guy. Ross told him to head back to .com. Kizarny was knocked out. Son of Bam Bam, Jesse, was out, followed by Shelton via MVP. Pick up an MVP vs. Shelton program on Smackdown soon. Chavo then dumped out MVP and Shelton booted MVP on the floor. Let's get a break.

Chavo out via Khali, then Fu Naki out via Khali. The Kendrick was out next via Khali. Hawkins & Ryder were still in there along with Primo & Carlito. Khali then dumped out Hawkins and Ryder before Kozlov snuck up behind Khali and took him out. Final four of Kozlov, tag champs, and R-Truth. It took a triple dropkick to get Kozlov off his feet, but Kozlov dumped the tag champs out when they tried to lift him out. Kozlov then easily discarded of Truth for the win. WINNER: Kozlov in 10:00. Just a basic battle royale to put the mid-carders on the same level and ensure no one stood out beyond Kozlov and Khali.

So, it's Edge vs. Hunter vs. Taker vs. Show vs. Kozlov vs. Jeff Hardy in the Smackdown Elimination Chamber at No Way Out. Kozlov took the mic post-match and said he will be champion in the Chamber.

(2) U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. MVP -- non-title match. Shelton dominated early on as MVP worked babyface to set up his comeback. MVP nailed a bicycle kick at 5:00 for a close nearfall, but Shelton went back on the offensive. Shelton and MVP butted heads in the corner, then MVP nailed a Chono boot for the pin and the win. WINNER: MVP in 6:00. Fine match to continue the program leading to a future title match.

(3) World tag champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & THE BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel Jackson) vs. WWE tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO & R-TRUTH. Truth rapped his way to the ring, which TBR wasn't amused by. Match started and Truth was isolated until Carlito finally took the hot tag. Carlito landed some impressive offense, then Miz and Morrison interrupted a pin attempt. Action broke down in the ring as ref Marty tried to restore order. Awkward exchange between Carlito and Kendrick, then Kendrick snuck up behind Carlito for a surprise Sliced Bread for the pin and the win. WINNERS: Team Kendrick in 6:00. Showed off a little personality from all six. Well, except for Primo, who didn't have much ring time. A chance for most of the men to stand out after the generic opening battle royale.

(4) EVE vs. MICHELLE McCOOL. Eve impressive early on, then McCool bailed to the floor for a breather. Eve took her eye off the ball allowing McCool to begin her heel attack. Eve came back at 3:00 with a nice dropkick, but McCool with a modified Dragon screw off the middle rope into a heel hook. Eve was forced to tap, giving McCool the decisive win. She wouldn't let go of the hold, though, so Maria stormed the ring to chase off McCool. Diva drama continues. WINNER: McCool in 4:00. McCool has found her way as a heel, especially with a few of the mannerisms she's subtly added.

(5) UMAGA vs. KUNG FU NAKI. Kung tried to run away, but Umaga grabbed him and nailed a straight kick to the chin. Kung was KO'ed, but Umaga dragged him to the corner to inflict more pain via the big running butt bomb. Great camera work there to put over the move. Umaga then measured Fu for the Samoan Spike and connected for the easy win. WINNER: Umaga in 2:00. Effective squash match to continue rebuilding Umaga his first two weeks back.

(6) WWE champion EDGE & THE BIG SHOW vs. TRIPLE H & THE UNDERTAKER. Back and forth action early, then Edge and Show cornered Hunter to keep him away from a Taker tag. Show missed with a Vader Bomb out of the corner, then Hunter landed a flip-over DDT. Taker finally took the hot tag and cleaned house. Edge thought he subdued Taker with a spear, but Taker slapped on the triangle choke. Show broke it up with a big leg drop, though. Edge and Show suddenly had a discussion that led to Show knocking down Edge with the big right hand blow to the jaw. Show slowly walked over to his corner, then Taker scooped up Edge and dropped him with the Tombstone Piledriver for the pin and the win while staring down Show, who quickly left the ringside area after the pin. WINNERS: Taker & Hunter in 16:00. Good showcase of the top talent on Smackdown. The tension between Taker and Hunter should be exploited on next week's show to create an issue between them leading to the Chamber match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 09 2009, 02:32 pm
TNA Against All Odds PPV Results: 2-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_29859.shtml) or Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8652 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2666018&postcount=8652) and posts thereater for in-ring results.

1 -- X Division champion ALEX SHELLEY vs. ERIC YOUNG -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Shelley in 14:00 to retain the X Division Title. Great opening match. This is a great heel persona for Shelley, who won because he out-smarted the opponent in a "dang you, Shelley" kind of a way without the stream of TNA interference. Very good opener. (***1/2)

2 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. PETEY WILLIAMS
WINNER: Steiner in 11:00. Well, that didn't help out Petey much. He was virtually dominated for ten minutes, had only a few moments of offense, and Steiner out-sized him and exploited the size difference rather easily. Match was okay. (**)

3 -- BRUTUS MAGNUS vs. CHRIS SABIN
WINNER: Brutus in 7:00. Not a memorable match. Brutus has to find his TNA character because TNA isn't helping him with that silly get-up. Not a good use of Sabin here. (*)

4 -- TNA Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG (w/Kongtourage) vs. ODB -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Kong in 6:00 to retain the Knockouts Title. Just fine. ODB put in a good effort as the underdog champion while Kong looked strong winning on her own for once. (*1/2)

5 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. SHANE SEWELL -- Legends Title match
WINNER: Booker in 6:00 to retain the Knockouts Title. Subtle interference from Sharmell, which was fine. Booker's character development is very entertaining, which benefited Booker more than Shane in the overall match presentation. Not sure where they're going with Shane from here, as Shane didn't prove much of a point here. (*1/2)

6 -- ABYSS vs. MATT MORGAN
WINNER: Abyss in 16:00. Good, decisive win for Abyss. They did their best to uphold rules in this one, so a better effort compared to TNA's history of over-booking PPV matches. Beat the dead horse - more chairshots to the head? Really? (**1/2)

7 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Jacqueline) vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED & JAY LETHAL -- TNA Tag Title match
WINNERS: Beer Money in 15:00 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Just what you would expect from this tag match. Standard, predictable TNA tag title match with Jackie's interference after a few hot tags from the challengers. (**)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. KURT ANGLE vs. BROTHER RAY vs. BROTHER DEVON -- TNA World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Sting in 14:00 to retain the TNA World Title. Clunky, with some bright spots, but not really a main-event-worthy title match. TNA's swerve was not to swerve anything, which was fine. They just didn't deliver a main event match that ever moved past first gear. It did advance Angle's jealousy of Sting, which we'll continue to follow on TV. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 10 2009, 10:52 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29889.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring action.

1 -- JILLIAN HALL & BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella and Rosa Mendes) vs. Women's champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY

Jerry Lawler quipped that Jillian was disappointed not to be nominated for a Grammy last night. Rosa, the intern, ran interference at 2:30 and yanked Melina off the ring ropes when she wanted a springboard move on Beth. Beth then followed with the chicken wing front-face slam for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beth Phoenix & Jillian Hall at 2:45. Just a fill-in-the-template standard divas match. At least there's a purpose for next week. (1/2*)

2 -- PRICELESS (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES) vs. CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPARD)

Shad was very focused before the opening bell. Priceless waited through the initial flurry, then cornered Shad to work him over. JTG took a hot tag at 2:30 and cleaned house before the action broke down. Cody then grappled JTG from behind and hit a spinning facebuster, the Cross Roads, for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Legacy at 3:25. Would have liked to have seen more between these two teams, as Cryme Tyme has shown improvement in the ring, and it would be nice to see them stretch out a longer match than the standard three-minute TV formula match. (*)

3 -- WWE World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON vs. KANE & MIKE KNOX & CHRIS JERICHO

Match started in progress out of the break. Early on, Kofi landed a boom-boom leg drop, but Kane came back with a clothesline before tagging in Knox to work on Kofi.

Cena picked up a quick hot tag and he cleaned house on Knox with shoulder tackles and a sit-out slam. He then told Knox you can't see me before delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle in center ring. Knox popped up to his feet and Cena wanted the FU...sorry, Attitude Adjustlamement, but Kane broke it up after fighting off the ref. On the outside, Cena rammed Kane back-first into the guardrail to allow the heels to work on Cena. Meanwhile, Michael Cole talked up the similar obstacles Cena faces on Sunday. Jericho tagged in and slingshot Cena throat-first across the top rope, then lifted Cena way up in the air for a front slam/toss and a nearfall. Jericho grounded Cena, who tried to power-lift into the FU, but Jericho blocked with a DDT at 4:00 of TV time.

Heels continue to work on Cena as the crowd was pretty involved in the action. Cena teased a comeback, but Kane cut him off with a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Lawler with a good point that perhaps Cena's partners were allowing Cena to take punishment to soften him for Sunday. Kane wanted a chokeslam, but Cena ducked and nailed the FU. He was worn out, so he crawled across the desert to Rey for a hot tag. Rey came in hot with a sick head scissors on Jericho, followed by a mid-ring huracanrana. Rey with a bulldog for a nearfall when Knox smashed Rey from behind.

Rey and Knox battled, then Rey pulled down the top rope to send Knox flying to the floor. Jericho then ate the middle turnbuckle from Rey and Kofi took a hot tag to throw Rey into Jericho. Kane then grappled Rey and flipped him to the floor to cut off the red-hot Rey. Meanwhile, Kofi and Jericho battled in the corner. Kind of a weird sequence that ended with Kofi trying a springboard dive that Jericho countered in mid-air with the codebreaker. He covered Kofi and scored the pin for the win. Afterward, Knox and Kane weren't too happy with Jericho for winning. He smiled, then quickly ducked out like a good heel when he felt threatened.

WINNERS: Team Jericho at 7:20 of TV time. Really hot six-man tag match that allowed all six men to get some quality TV time. Nice use of Cena in peril to convey Cena in jeopardy on Sunday. The finish was a little off live, but a post-match replay made it look acceptable. Magic of replay. (**1/4)

4 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Michaels tackled Henry again, then the action moved to the floor. Michaels grabbed a chair and tossed it into the ring for use on Henry, but Henry stole it from him. No problem, as Michaels superkicked the chair into Henry's face to cause a DQ. After the bell, Lilian began to announce Henry as the winner, but JBL took the mic and reminded HBK that if he gets DQ'ed or doesn't adhere to the ref's rules on Sunday, then he owns Michaels forever. JBL said he will turn Michaels into Mickey Mouse and slap his likeness on everything that is JBL Corporation.

JBL then suggested Michaels bring his wife to No Way Out so she can watch a broken down man gamble away his life. JBL said he'll do what he always does: win. JBL began to leave, but he paused on the ring apron and re-addressed HBK. With a straight face, he said speaking of Michaels's wife, he thinks there will always be a place for such a beautiful and talented lady. JBL stormed out, then HBK let out some of his frustrations. He's ticking time-bomb ready to explode on Sunday.

WINNER: Henry via DQ at 0:58. Very nice set-up for Michaels vs. JBL on Sunday, which was somewhat lost in the shuffle before tonight's show despite the high stakes on the match. JBL's promos are rock-solid in not over-playing his hand as a heel and using the Jericho strategy of being subtle in his verbal attacks. (n/a)

5 -- IC champion C.M. PUNK vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- Intercontinental Title match

Regal landed a big knee smash early on, but Punk fought back with trademark body kicks. He wanted the G2S, but Regal slipped out with elbow smashes before slapping on a straight-jacket submission hold. Regal followed with Bryan Danielson elbow strikes, but Punk kicked out of a pin attempt. Very aggressive from Regal early on.

Regal hit a t-bone suplex before measuring Punk for a running knee to the face. Punk popped up, though, and kicked Regal in the face. He then lowered his kneepad and hoisted Regal up for the G2S directly on his exposed knee. Punk scored the pin for the win before selling some pain from Regal's early knee smash.

WINNER: Punk at 2:45 to retain the IC Title. Another quick match in this series. Just no reason to put any faith in WWE to build up the IC division when they didn't even pre-hype the only title match on the show and only give it three minutes of TV time. Match was good in the limited time given. (*1/2)

6 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. RANDY ORTON

Hot start for Taker, who landed some furious fists before clotheslining Orton to the floor. Orton tried to gain control when Taker followed out, but Taker landed a chinbreaker across the top rope. Orton retreated on the floor again, but Taker snuck up on him with a hard clothesline to the floor.


Back from break, Orton was in control after nailing the trademark horizontal DDT from the second rope. Taker then fought back at 5:30 with rapid-fire right hand blows, but Orton snapped off a very impressive-looking powerslam to cut off Taker. Orton and Taker then had a standing exchange of right hand blows before Taker landed snake eyes in the corner and a big boot to the face for a two count following a leg drop.

Taker wanted the chokeslam at the top of the hour, but Orton kicked him in the gut. Orton tried to sneak in an RKO, but Taker blocked. He wanted the Tombstone Piledriver, but Cody & Ted stormed the ring to cause a DQ. Legacy worked over Taker three-on-one for a few minutes, then Orton cleared his boys back. He went down for an RKO, but Shane McMahon snuck in behind and tackled Orton. Taker chokeslammed Cody, then Shane landed some classic horrible punches on Ted to set up Taker for a chokeslam on Ted.

Meanwhile, Orton was on stage pacing around and yelling into the ring. Shane picked up a trashcan to a crowd pop and set it up on DiBiase in the corner for his classic coast-to-coast dropkick. Shane then went to the opposite corner and pointed toward Orton. After surveying the water below off the high dive, he leapt across the ring for his coast-to-coast. (The camera made a quick cut to a back-shot just in case Shane missed badly.) He did smash the trashcan, but came up holding his back. Shane then pointed to Orton, who was very upset on stage. They replayed the wide angle of Shane connecting, then closed with a stare-down between Shane (ring) and Orton (stage).

WINNER: Undertaker via DQ at 8:50. Well, you had to expect there wouldn't be a finish involving Raw's top heel and Taker (because it's Taker) right before a PPV. I wouldn't have closed with a non-finish before a PPV, nor another Shane McMahon moment, but the positioning on the tonight's Raw shows where WWE believes priority should be in selling the PPV. To think on the Raw before WWE's last PPV, Orton was mega-heel status. Three weeks later, he's playing that generic heel role once again.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 12 2009, 12:35 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 2-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Mayer and Caldwell's combined report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29916.shtml)

Asst. editor James Caldwell's note: I'll mix in my thoughts watching the show to go side-by-side with Dominick Mayer's alt. perspective report.

A recap runs of the issues between Finlay and Jack Swagger over the past two weeks, including last week's match in which Finlay ended Swagger's undefeated streak with the assist from Hornswoggle.

No title sequence this week. Swagger is on his way out in ring attire. As Grisham points out, Swagger doesn't have his usual cocky smile tonight. He just looks somber, though not really in a cowardly heel kind of way. For the last two weeks, Swagger says he's been victimized and embarrassed. What does Teddy Long do? At No Way Out, the title is on the line against Finlay. Swagger says this is unfair. Well, now he's in cowardly heel mode. Boo. He's going to take care of Finlay, because he's going to take care of the real problem. He's calling out Hornswoggle, tonight. This could either be a heel generator or silliness.

Suddenly, Christian's music hits! What the hell? They reference this moment as instantly classic. Yay, TNA references! But, once again:

CHRISTIAN HAS RETURNED.

Caldwell: Christian looked like he hadn't missed a beat, as he was in control of the moment all the way to the ring. Definitely a superstar reaction for Christian.

Swagger looks shocked. Well, I daresay we all are at the moment. Swagger wants to know what he thinks he's doing. Christian says he's interrupting his promo. He's actually here to save Swagger's life. Christian goes after his lisp, which is kind of a drag. The Sylvester the Cat connection is finally made there. Christian cuts Swagger off to ask that he and his peeps are allowed to have their moment; it's been a long time. Swagger needs to drink it in. The real reason he's out here, and on ECW, is to take Swagger's title away. Christian is glad that Swagger isn't waiting for No Way Out, because he's challenging the winner of Jack Swagger vs. Finlay for the ECW Championship.

Swagger just asks if he's finished. He says that it means Christian is challenging him, and he couldn't hack it a few years ago, so he's not going to beat Swagger. He won the ECW title in four months, and he's a wrestling prodigy. He won't allow Christian to make his name at his expense. Christian is no threat to him. Really, now? Christian hits him with a mic to end the segment. Now, this was a weak Christian promo, especially on his return, but Swagger held his own, so I think it's for the best that Christian toned it down some. However, glad as I am to see Christian return, I think this undersells the No Way Out match now, because who really thinks Christian and Finlay are going to feud?

Caldwell: Nice return by Christian (even though it was on ECW). Only issue were the classic "mean" babyface elements of picking on Swagger's lisp and hitting Swagger with a mic before slipping out of the ring, but Christian can get away with it because he's Christian.

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. THE MIZ (w/John Morrison)

Dreamer tackles Miz and punches him right out of the gate. He tries pulling Miz to the outside, but Miz kicks him into the barrier. He goes for a dive off the apron, but Dreamer throws him to the apron. Back in the ring, Dreamer drops a running elbow on Miz for a short two count. Dreamer runs Miz into the corner, but Miz counters. Miz kicks Dreamer in the ribs. Miz screams "who's your hero?" at the crowd while hitting Dreamer with forearm shots. Dreamer comes back with shots to the ribs and back body drops Miz before getting a bulldog. Sitting spinebuster by Dreamer for two. Miz goes for a knee in the corner, but Dreamer sidesteps him and gives him a reverse neckbreaker off the second rope for a near-fall before Miz gets a leg on the bottom rope. Morrison goes up to the apron, and when Dreamer knocks him off, Miz hits a dropping jawbreaker that doesn't quite look right for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Miz in 3:00. The ending looked a little awkward, but I guess they want to give Miz a new finisher. Decent match to forward the program of Dreamer being a loveable loser.

Caldwell: Dreamer is 0-3 since making the decree. We're missing that ingredient in the storyline chase, which Dreamer will hopefully begin to discover on the road to the June ECW PPV. It would be nice to have a little something more to sink our teeth into.

2 -- TYSON KIDD (w/ Natalya) vs. BAO NGUYEN

Striker puts over Kidd's training in the Dungeon. Kidd hits an atomic drop followed directly by a big spinning heel kick. Kidd doesn't get off Nguyen at any point. Hard roundhouse kick by Kidd for two. Chinlock by Kidd. Kidd comes off the ropes with a hard kick to the chest and then a low dropkick. A springboard elbow across the ring from the top rope ends it.

WINNER: Kidd in 2:00. So far, so good. On a slow-motion repeat, Kidd's kick earlier in the match looked pretty nasty.

Caldwell: Nice debut for Wilson. I don't think it's any coincidence they put the Bourne video package on right before Wilson's debut match. I would expect great things from a Bourne vs. Wilson TV feud.

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. CHRISTIAN

A mat exchange starts things off, with Swagger taking over early. They face back off. Swagger corners Christian and slaps him, but Christian hits a harder slap. Rollup by Christian for one. Christian escapes a bodyslam and after a brief exchange, gets a sunset flip off the second rope for a two count. Swagger retreats into the corner. Finlay and Hornswoggle are on their way down to the ring, all of a sudden. Break time.

Finlay and Hornswoggle are on commentary, and Hornswoggle is making crazy sounds, which is getting really annoying really fast. Swagger gets a nice roll-through takedown on Christian in the ring. Christian breaks free, but Swagger cuts him off with a boot. Stomps in the corner on Christian. Grisham asks Hornswoggle what he thinks of his father's chances on Sunday, and Hornswoggle responds by screaming. That was actually funny. Swagger puts Christian up on the top rope, but when he tries to climb, Christian fights him off and gets a gigantic tornado DDT for a close two count. Christian brings the offense, hitting Swagger with a death drop. Christian goes up top and goes for a flying headbutt, but eats canvas. Swagger rolls him up, but only gets two.

Christian goes for the Impaler, but Swagger evades. Swagger goes for a belly-back suplex, but Christian breaks free and rolls Swagger up for two. Swagger goes for a splash out of the corner, but Christian rolls away. A weird move ensues when Christian tries to get back into the ring and Swagger jumps on his midsection to pull him. Swagger throws Christian into Finlay and Hornswoggle at ringside. Back in the ring, clothesline by Swagger. Swagger goes to loosen a turnbuckle, but Christian rolls him up for two. Christian goes for the impaler, but Swagger counters into an electric chair setup. Finlay distracts Swagger long enough for Christian to escape and hit the Impaler for the win.

WINNER: Christian in 12:00. Good return match, though nothing spectacular. It'll be interesting to see where they go from here with this return angle, and with Finlay.

Caldwell: Interesting dynamic with Swagger picking up another loss to show him in jeopardy against Finlay at the PPV, but it seems like Swagger has lost tremendous momentum since winning the ECW Title. I believe they should have established him as a dominating heel champion his first two months as champion, as opposed to having him run around backstage looking for his belt, then losing to Finlay last week, then losing to Christian this week. He needs a decisive win over Finlay on Sunday. Christian was solid in the ring making his WWE debut. Same style we're used to, but he held his own back in a WWE ring. Good showing by Christian tonight, even if it was an unadvertised debut on the third brand.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 14 2009, 10:05 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29954.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- STING & KURT ANGLE vs. TEAM 3D

Kurt Angle made his ring entrance to his music followed by Sting to his music. No Mafia music this week so far. Tenay talked about the controversial statements Sting and Angle made about each other and the Mafia headed into Against All Odds. Team 3D came out next. Tenay complimented TNA management for "booking this quality high-profile match" based on what happened at Against All Odds. Wait, this is the same match as last week and the same four as in the PPV main event on Sunday, so it's more par for the course than something special in that context. Sting and Angle had a heated discussion before the match. West said Angle can be upset about not winning the title, but Sting earned it on Sunday so he has to deal with it. As Angle took a beating from 3D early, Sting reached out for a tag, but Angle didn't reach back. It was repeat of Angle's counterintuitive actions last week. Brother Ray hit Angle with a diving headbutt between his legs as Devon held him spread-eagle. When Angle bailed out to ringside, Sting got in his face. Angle shoved him. Sting took a deep breath, then shoved him back and asked, "What happened to the family?" They cut to a break at 4:00.

Sting was in the match after the break. When he reached to tag Angle, Angle jumped to the floor. Scott Steiner talked to Angle at ringside. Sting settled into a headlock on Ray.

Ray speared Sting at 9:00 to take Sting down. Both men were slow to get up as Angle cheered on Sting. When Sting got up and tried to tag Angle, Angle jumped to the floor. Devon beat up Sting, including a running kneelift for a two count at 10:00. A minute later Angle did the same thing. Sting patted Angle on the shoulder and slingshot him into the ring. Apparently that's a legal tag in TNA. Devon then schoolboyed Angle from behind as Angle was arguing with Sting, leading to the three count.

WINNERS: Team 3D in 11:00.

STAR RATING: * -- The point of this wasn't to have an actual wrestling match; it was just there to forward the Sting-Angle dissension.

2 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. "MAPLE LEAF MUSCLE" PETEY WILLIAMS

This was a no-DQ Headdress on a Pole match. Tenay said Steiner wants to prove that he and Petey are done. If you're a dom, usually you just break up with your sub partner verbally, but to each their own, I suppose. Steiner controlled early. Petey yanked Steiner crotch-first into the ringpost at 1:00, then raked his eyes back in the ring. Steiner came back and DDT'd Petey off the ropes. Tenay and West began talking more about the Sting-Angle situation. Steiner set Petey on the top rope, then climbed to the top himself and shoved his crotch into Petey's face, which is appropriate given the way this relationship has been portrayed on TV over the month. He teased reaching Petey's hand up to the head dress, then gave him a Frankensteiner. Tenay said he thought he had seen it all, but then he just watched a wrestler do a signature move that's named after him and he's shocked. Huh? Tenay said fans have to respect his athleticism. At 4:00 Steiner grabbed his lead pipe. Ref Rudy Charles tried to tell him to put it down. Why did he do that? It's a no DQ match! West even brought that up. The ref took the pipe from him. Steiner slapped him, but let the ref keep the pipe. It's stupid sequences like that which really irritate a lot of wanna-be TNA fans. Why in a no DQ match is a ref trying to stop a wrestler from using a foreign object? Seriously, it's just so stupid. Steiner climbed to the top rope, but Petey got up with a Tommy Dreamer Comeback and hit Steiner from behind. He then climbed up and grabbed the head dress, but he couldn't pull it down before Steiner met him at the top and gave him a suplex to the mat. Steiner then grabbed the head dress and won.

WINNER: Steiner in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *

3 -- TNA KNOCKOUTS PROGRESSIVE BATTLE ROYAL

I think my number one wish in pro wrestling is for Tenay and West to resist mentioning how hard it is for them to concentrate when the camera zooms in on the crotch of one of the Beautiful People rubbing the middle rope. For so many reasons. Angelina Love and Taylor Wilde began the match. Third in a minute later for Velvet Sky. Fourth in was Soujourner Bolt. Then Roxxi (who used to swear like a sailor, but now she's a mute). Cute Kip kept Sky from hitting the floor when she was knocked over the top rope. Madison Rain came out sixth. West called her a wildcard. Raesha Saeed was seventh. West said he'd like to see her face Awesome Kong because who knows her better?

Kip saved Love from elimination by catching her as she flew over the top rope. Rhaka Kahn entered eighth. The last entrant was ODB, who quickly eliminated Khan before she had a chance to be too clumsy. Kip again caught Sky. As Kip celebrated, Love and Wilde tumbled over the top rope together to the floor. Roxxi knocked Sky off the ring apron to elminate her. Bolt then eliminated Roxxi. ODB and Rain fought on the ring apron. Bolt dropkicked ODB off the ring apron to the floor, so it came down to Rain and Bolt. Rain scored a two count with a victory roll. Bolt finished Rain within a minute.

WINNER: Sounourner Bolt in 13:00 to earn a TNA Knockouts Title match.

STAR RATING: *1/4

4 -- CHRIS SABIN & ALEX SHELLEY vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED & "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL

Lethal and Sabin opened the match with some rapid-fire action. Creed used a drop toe hold to send Sabin head-first into Shelley's crotch at 3:00.

Lethal hot-tagged in at 4:00 and he and Lethal went rapid-fire again. As Shelley rallied against Lethal, Lethal countered with his finisher for a sudden win.

WINNERS: Lethal Consequences in 5:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Short, but a nice dose of third-gear athleticism.

5 -- ABYSS & RHINO vs. BEER MONEY INC. ("Cowboy" James Storm & Robert Roode w/Jacqueline)

They showed a clip from Sunday's PPV of Storm KO'ing Lethal with a chain supplied by Jackie to retain the tag team titles. After some early offense by the babyfaces, Jackie distracted the ref as Storm knocked him off the ropes to the floor.

The heels were on offense after the break. Tenay asked West if there's any chance Sting lays down for Angle. West said Sting has said it's all about respect and the belt would be tarnished if anyone but him held but, "but maybe he's trying to prove a point in some way we can't see." Abyss came back and butt-splashed the heels in opposite corners, then lifted Roode and gave him Shock Treatment leading to a two count. Rhino, Roode, and the ref got tied up and fell over the top rope to the floor. Storm sprayed Abyss with beer in the face and then gave him a bulldog. Jackie gave Storm a beer bottle. Abyss caught him as he charged with a chokeslam. Abyss grabbed the bottle. Matt Morgan entered the ring and smashed Abyss flush across his skull with a chairshot. As Dixie Carter told Congress, Abyss is such a "dummy." The ref didn't see the chairshot, but he returned to the ring and counted the pin. Afterward Morgan and Beer Money celebrated together. Morgan then hit Abyss with another chairshot to the skull as Beer Money kept Rhino out of the ring. Tenay called it a "sick shot." It is sick that TNA management, especially in light of Dixie Carter's comments to Congress about banning stiff chairshots, continues to let Abyss take stiff chairshots without regard to the likely long-term consequences.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 7:00.

STAR RATING: *

FINAL THOUGHTS: As the show progressed, they managed to make more sense out of the nonsense aspects nof the first segment by addressing some obvious points that needed to be addressed. I warmed up to most aspects of this by the end because Sting cut a really strong promo both in terms of content and delivery. It was well above par for him. Angle is always entertaining, even when the storyline is off the rails. I think the weak link early was the announcers, who didn't say what viewers were thinking and wondering, but West covered some of those bases later in the show. I liked Sting shaming Angle into not doing what Angle wanted to do. Babyfaces in the end should be smarter and more noble (and thus more admirable) than the heels, and Sting came through. What blows my mind is that it looks like they might give away an empty arena match between Sting and Angle on free TV next week? All of this build-up between Angle and Sting is going to lead to their first MEM-era match against one another on free TV?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 15 2009, 10:22 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_29986.shtml)

1- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MVP

Chavo sporting the white tights tonight. Clothesline caught Chavo coming out of the corner. Interesting move to work the arm by Chavo, who then baseball slid MVP out of the ring. He worked over MVP out there then tossed him back into the ring. “MVP” chants from the crowd as Chavo put more pressure on MVP’s arm. When MVP broke out of it, Chavo jumped on MVP’s back and applied a sleeper. That didn’t last long as Montel Vontavious Porter came back with a thrust to the throat and a face-buster. “Ballin!” elbowdrop got two. MVP tried something but Chavo turned it into a headscissors. He got caught in the corner by the Drive-By though. MVP set up for his finisher when Shelton Benjamin came out and gave MVP his Paydirt finisher.

WINNER: MVP, at 3:28. Better than their effort a few weeks ago.

2- JOHN MORRISON & THE MIZ vs. CARLITO & PRIMO COLON

The Bellas came to the ring with the Colons. Miz backed Carlito into the corner with a lock-up but Carlito hit him with a straight left hand. Shoulder tackle followed by another left hand from Carlito. High dropkick, then a tag to Primo. When Morrison tagged in, Primo looked as if he was going for an arm-drag, but Morrison nailed him with a right hand. The two traded pinning combinations that ended with a slap to the face by Primo. Crowd chanted for Primo as he made a tag to Carlito. Carly rocked Miz with some left hands then hit a sloppy springboard back elbow. Morrison low-bridged Carlito though and they went to break.

Surprised to see these two traditional tag teams get so much time. Carlito was working out of a rest-hold by Morrison when the show returned. Morrison went for a neck-breaker and Carlito countered with a backslide for two. Miz blew a kiss to one of the Bellas after he elbow-dropped Carlito. The heels did some double-teaming and cut off the ring. Miz missed a running knee-lift, and Carlito downed him with a spinebuster. Both men made tags and Primo cleaned house. He hit Morrison with all kinds of high-impact moves. Monkey-flip, but Morrison landed on his feet. Leg-sweep by Primo got two when Miz broke up the pin. Carlito got rid of Miz and Morrison did the same to Carlito. Miz pushed Primo off the top rope and Morrison hit the Moonlight Drive for the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Morrison, at 10:33. Your standard WWE television tag match, but this one had a little more athleticism to it than others.

3- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. R-TRUTH

Truth went toe-to-toe with Zeke to start, then nailed the big man with a heel kick. He hit the ropes and Zeke hit him with a shoulderblock. Jackson locked in a Full-Nelson as The Brian Kendrick implored Zeke from ringside to break his neck. Military Press drop by Ezekiel. Truth caught Zeke with a European uppercut. Another military press, but Truth rolled him up for two. Jackson came back and turned Truth inside-out with a clothesline. Jackson set up for the uranage, but Truth rolled him up for the surprise win.

WINNER: Truth, at 2:57. Interesting. I believe that’s Zeke’s first pinfall loss, and surprising that it would be to R-Truth.

4- MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MARIA

Maria went right after Michelle at the start and was quite aggressive. McCool slammed Maria, whose leg bounced on the ropes as she did so. Michelle went right to work on the left leg. Michelle slammed Maria’s foot off the ringside steps. Side-Russian leg-sweep, complete with trash talk, got a two-count. Maria got a surprise roll-up for two, which seemed to anger Michelle even more. Enziguiri by Maria, but Michelle stayed on offense. Eve came down to ringside and Michelle went out after her. Michelle pushed her back into the ring, where Maria rolled Michelle up for three.

WINNER: Maria, at 3:33. Two roll-ups and a DQ in four matches. Match was fine as it allowed Michelle to be on offense most of the time.

5- TRIPLE H vs. BIG SHOW vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. THE UNDERTAKER- FATAL FOUR-WAY MATCH

Show and HHH paired off once the bell rang, as did Kozlov and Taker. Taker and Show traded blows. Kozlov and Show were sent to the outside as HHH and Taker went nose-to-nose in the middle of the ring. Spinebuster by HHH on Taker, but the Dead Man sat up. He was attacked from behind by Big Show though. The match continues after break.

Back from break with authority! Kozlov sent Taker into the steel ring steps and Show missed a splash in the corner on HHH. Big Show and The Russian teamed up on The Game in the ring, hitting a double shoulder-tackle on him. Trips tried fighting back, but it was all for naught. Kozlov took it to Trips in the corner, then Show whipped Kozlov into The Game. Kozlov unwisely turned his back and Show chokeslammed him. He go ta two-count when Taker punched him in the face from outside the ring. Back in the ring, he nailed Show with a flying clothesline. DDT on Show for two as Kozlov this time interrupted. The Moscow Mauler powerslammed Taker for two. Taker locked in the Devil’s Gate (as Tazz called it this week, a mix of Devil’s Triangle and Hell’s Gate). Taker then locked it on Show, who almost tapped, but Triple H broke it up. Trips low-bridged Kozlov out of the ring. Show put Triple H on his back and Taker kicked Show, sending both men to the mat. Kozlov came back in as Show was dispatched to ringside. For his troubles, he got a Snake Eyes and running boot by Taker. Show broke up a pin and clobbered Taker with headbutts. He missed his Vader Bomb/elbowdrop combination, as usual. Kozlov headbutted Show in the sternum and HHH Pedigreed Kozlov. Tombstone by Taker on Triple H. It’s like the grand finale at the fireworks! Show then chokeslammed Taker. As he turned around, Edge ran in and speared Big Show. The show ended with him raising his belt in the air.

WINNER: No Contest/Big Show via DQ? I’m not sure how to score that one. Anyway, the match lasted 12:52.

-The show ended with one final plug for the Elimination Chamber match and No Way Out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 18 2009, 10:30 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30044.shtml) To view condensed version of the complete report, including the Edge/Cena, Jericho/Piper, JBL/HBK confrontations and the ending Shane/Orton brawl, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8690 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2671881&postcount=8690) and Post #8691. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2671883&postcount=8691)

1 -- PRICELESS (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.) & WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla) vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) & IC champion C.M. PUNK
WINNERS: Priceless & Regal at 8:10. Okay match. Cryme Tyme report card - no pre-match ring intro, Shad had virtually zero TV time, and JTG's comeback was cut off very quickly. Meanwhile, IC Title feud of Punk vs. Regal continues to flounder. (*1/4)

2 -- KANE vs. JAMIE NOBLE
WINNER: Kane at 0:15. Well, nearly an hour of TV and still less than ten minutes of TV. And almost half of that occurred during the commercial.

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. MIKE KNOX
WINNER: Rey at 9:45. Nice victory for Rey. We keep thinking it's the blow-off match to this feud, but perhaps there will be yet another Knox vs. Rey match down the line considering Knox had this one won a few times. This wasn't half-bad for Knox, who is developing a certain big-man charisma that's subtle and effective. (*1/2)

4 -- Women's champion MELINA vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella and Rosa Mendes) -- Women's Title match
WINNER: Melina at 3:15. Standard divas match. Not much time allotted for a competitive bout. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 18 2009, 11:48 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 1-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30078.shtml) or Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8692. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2672212&postcount=8692)

1 -- THE BOOGEYMAN vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)
WINNER: Burchill in 2:00. Just a going-nowhere match between two big men without a storyline to work with. Seriously, Burchill goes off on some Mobile dude and he's punished by being asked to do his job of wrestling another lug? Apparently that suffices as storyline progression on ECW these days. (1/2*)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. World tag team champion JOHN MORRISON (w/World tag team champion The Miz)
WINNER: Morrison in 4:00. Nice, albeit brief, TV match. I like the set-up to Dreamer deciding on fight or flight with four months until the ECW PPV in June. Plenty of time to set up the angle with the announcers doubting him after each loss.

3 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. CADEN MATHEWS
WINNER: Kidd in 2:00. Good effort from Kidd, who isn't really defined as a heel or a babyface considering he debuted last week without introductory vignettes or any sense of build-up. He has that Jack Swagger deal going for him with an overbearing smile that has him an easy heel so far. (3/4*)

4 -- ECW champion JACK SWAGGER & MARK HENRY vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) & CHRISTIAN
WINNERS: Christian & Finlay in 14:00. Sluggish middle, then a very nice finish. Christian looks very refreshed two weeks into his WWE return. It would be too soon for Christian to win the ECW Title on next week's show, as I'd like to see him and Swagger carry their mini-feud to WrestleMania unless Christian is plugged into Money in the Bank. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 22 2009, 10:34 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-19-09

WAAAAAAY behind so let's get to it.

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1004650.shtml) Condensed here.

1. Motor City Machine Guns defeated Lethal Consequences in a street fight in 5:50. After the break, the two teams were fighting in the entrance area. Tenay said the bell sounded to start the match. We'll have to take his word for it.

The two teams fought their way inside the ring. The Guns were wearing matching t-shirts and sweatpants. West put the two teams over as being four of the brightest young stars of the company. At 4:30, Lethal hit Sabin with the Lethal Combination on a chair for a near fall. Later, Shelley accidentally hit Sabin with the X Division Title belt. Sabin eventually recovered, picked up the belt, and hit Creed with it. Shelley made the cover and got the pin...

Powell's POV: Good action from start to finish. The fans were lively, but they seemed to be cheering the spots more than one team over the other. I don't think most fans know how they're supposed to react to the Guns.

2. Shane Sewell and LAX defeated Brutus Magnus, Sheik Abdul Bashir, and Matt Morgan in 4:00. Tenay pointed out that Magnus was a UK Gladiator, and Morgan was an American Gladiator. The heels roughed up Sewell early in the match. All six guys were fighting each other in no time.

Late in the match, Hernandez hit the Border Toss on Bashir. Hernandez tagged Sewell into the match. Sewell hit the top rope elbow drop on Bashir and scored the pin...

Powell's POV: They should have just lied and said Bashir was on Iranian Gladiators.

3. Taylor Wilde (w/Roxxi, The Governor) defeated Angelina Love (w/Velvet Sky, Cute Kip) in 4:15. Tenay said Spike TV rules prevent Kip from laying his hands on women, so Wilde actually has the numbers advantage. Of course, this led to Kip tripping Wilde early in the match. The referee saw it and made Kip go backstage. Later, that whacky Governor reached in and tripped Love, who bickered with the referee. Wilde rolled her up and pinned her...

Powell's POV: Spike TV should come up with a rule that bans Kip from appearing on camera.

4. Beer Money (w/Jackie) defeated Eric Young and Petey Williams in an Off The Wagon Challenge match to retain the TNA Tag Titles in 10:30. Tenay said Cornette promised fans a reunion. "And he was dead on," Tenay said. He reminded viewers that Young and Williams were part of Team Canada and hadn't teamed together in years.

They also recapped the rule that the tag title were on the line, but if one of the challengers was pinned by Beer Money, they would be forced to leave TNA forever. They cut to commercial a couple minutes into the match.

After the break, the heels worked over Young until he made a hot tag. Williams hit some flashy offense on the heels. Young tagged back in and hit a great top rope leg drop for a near fall on Roode. Later, Jackie ran in and Petey caught her. He set her up for his finisher, only to take a superkick from Storm. Roode covered Petey for the win.

The announcers noted that Petey was eliminated from TNA as a result of his loss. Williams cried as the fans applauded him and chanted his name. West thanked Williams for his contributions to the company and said he's been a top member of the X Division...

Powell's POV: Nice reaction for Williams. Here's hoping it makes TNA creative think twice about their asinine statement that they don't have anything for him. If creative can't come up with something for Petey, then maybe creative is the problem.

5. Sting fought Kurt Angle to an apparent no-contest in an Empty Arena match in 7:00. Sting took control early and yelled, "Kurt Angle, I'm going to kill you." They fought at ringside and into the stands, where Angle struck Sting with repeated punches. They fought to the edge of one section of seats. Sting flipped Angle over the fence and caused him to fall to take a big spill onto the concrete. Angle came back a short time later and yelled, "I hate you."

They fought their way back to ringside as a shot aired of the fans cheering outside the building. Angle called Sting a "stupid son of a *****" and wound up to hit him with a chair, but Sting kicked him. Sting got the chair. Angle begged off and said he was sorry. "Please, I have kids," Angle said.

Kevin Nash walked down to ringside and stood next to Angle and Sting. Angle's tune changed. He dared Sting to hit him. Sting wound up to hit him with the chair, but Nash stopped him. Nash yelled at Angle to make it right as Scott Steiner stood by. Sting offered his hand. Angle shook it, then spat in Sting's face. Sting attacked Angle and they traded more punches. "I hate you," Angle yelled. Mafia security jumped between the two wrestlers and held them apart as the show cut to commercial...

Powell's POV: So much for the empty arena.

Powell's POV: I hated the non-finish to a match they built up that much. Good intensity during the match. It sounded silly to have the fans watch on monitors outside the building, but the shots of them cheering added to the match. They had a good rating for last week's show and built up this week's main event nicely, so it will be interesting to see what type of rating they drew for this week's show. It will also be interesting to see how many of those fans don't tune in next week because they were pissed off by the non-finish.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 22 2009, 10:47 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-20-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Hermanstyne's complete report)  (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1004669.shtml). Condensed version posted here.

1. Michelle McCool & Maryse defeated Eve & Maria in 4:10. Maria and McCool began the match. The heels worked on Maria outside of the ring. Maria went for an inside cradle for a nearfall. Maryse got the hot tag in and continued to work on Maria with a modified camel clutch. Maria goes the tag to Eve for some quick offense but was kicked in the dome by Michelle McCool. Maryse scored the pinfall after knocking Maria out and pinning Eve.

Mind of Marv: Is there such thing as a Divas squash match? The sloppy spots were hard to endure. Ugh.

2. MVP defeated Shelton Benjamin & Chavo Guerrero in a handicap match in approximately 6:00 because the match was already in progress. The show returned with MVP and Shelton was aggressive in the ring. The match became a handicap match because Truth got assaulted prior to the beginning of the match. MVP attempted the Drive By on Chavo, but Shelton moved Chavo. Shelton started to work on MVP with a T-Bone suplex.

Shelton was going to finish MVP off but Chavo tagged himself in. Chavo did the 3 Amigos on MVP and Shelton tagged himself in. Chavo knocked Shelton out and gave him a frogsplash. MVP gave Shelton the Drive By to keep his winning streak alive.

Mind of Marv: MVP is hot right now and here is the plan for 2009: regain the US Title, then become the Money in the Bank winner. That should be road to success for Franchise Playa.

3. Umaga squashed Scotty Goldman in 1:20. Sidewalk slam, super kick, 350 lbs of *** in the face, Samoan spike, end of match. Total squash.

Mind of Marv: For your efforts AND from the words of Vince McMahon: Scotty Goldman...YOUR FIRED!!!!

4. Jeff Hardy defeated Edge in a non-title match by DQ in 19:00. The match began with Jeff kicking and giving Edge arm bar takedown. Jeff began to work on Edge's arm and applied a face buster. Jeff applied an arm bar takedown and Edge took control of the match briefly with punches to Jeff's head. Jeff baseball slid Edge outside of the ring and Edge took control by giving Jeff a neck breaker after the six count.

The show returned with Edge working on Jeff's neck. Jeff tried to get back in control but Edge yanked him by his hair. Edge gave Jeff a neck breaker for a near fall. Edge continued to work on Jeff's neck by applying a chin lock. Jeff flew out of the ring but managed to get in at the nine count. Edge tried to climb the ropes but Jeff knocked him down. Jeff went for a roll up for a near fall. Both competitors clothesline each other and got up for a seven count. Edge tried to use the ropes but got caught. Jeff applied a Whisper in the Wind but it was only for a near fall. Jeff got some quick offense but only for a near fall.

Jeff tried to cover Edge but Edge's foot was on the rope for the near fall. Jeff attempted a Twist of Fate but was countered for the near fall. Edge tried to spear Jeff but was countered by a roll up for a near fall. Jeff hit the Twist of Fate and the Swanton and when Jeff tried to get the pin, Matt came out and interfered for the disqualification.

Matt said that Jeff couldn't get the black cloud from around him and he wants to face Jeff one on one next week. Matt left to a chorus of heat and Edge speared Jeff to end the show.

Mind of Marv: Good match to close the show. This should be the beginning of the buildup of the Hardy brother feud to lead into Wrestlemania. But overall, the show was mediocre yet acceptable.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 24 2009, 02:32 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30225.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion C.M. Punk vs. World tag team champion THE MIZ vs. World tag team champion JOHN MORRISON -- Qualifying match for Money in the Bank at WrestleMania

Briefcase was suspended above the ring to show what's on the line tonight. Punk retreated to his corner after the opening bell to anticipate a double-team attack in the three-way match, but the tag champs successfully double-teamed Punk. Eventually, Punk avoided a clothesline near the ropes and dumped Miz to the floor. Morrison was then out to the floor with Punk, and they cut to a break with all three men recovering.

They returned with Morrison working on Punk, then Punk made a comeback with a series of knee lifts. Suddenly, Miz smashed Punk in the corner and Morrison was knocked to the outside in the process. Miz worked on Punk at 7:30 while Lawler speculated that things could break down between the tag champs. Morrison re-entered the ring, but Punk pulled out some double-team moves on the champs.

Suddenly, Punk got caught in the electric chair on Miz's shoulders and Morrison hit a springboard kick on Punk. Miz and Morrison tried to pin Punk, then the champs got into a mid-ring brawl. The champs exploding allowed Punk to sneak in from behind and hoist Morrison up for the G2S after kicking Miz to the floor. After nailing the G2S, Punk covered Morrison for the win to qualify for the MITB ladder match. Punk's looking for a repeat from last year when he won MITB.

WINNER: Punk at 10:25. Nice match. Strange crowd reactions at the end, as the action seemed fine, but the crowd was silent or just not mic'ed well. Looks like we'll get Miz vs. Morrison or Miz & Morrison vs. the Colons at WrestleMania. Can't leave the tag champs off the PPV card. (*1/2)

as the opposition. Welcome back, Dolph.

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA & BETH PHOENIX & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. Women's champion MELINA & CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPARD)

Melina and Beth started things off against each other. Very quiet tonight. Cole isn't helping on play-by-play. Dolph and JTG tagged in to battle in the ring. Dolph short-armed Santino on a tag, then Shad tagged in and took apart Dolph. Shad then powered up and missed with a money-money elbow drop. Santino finally tagged in, then he fired himself up and ran into a clothesline from Shad, who pinned him for the win. That was quick.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme & Melina at 3:57. More of Santino's comedy act, which is wearing thin if he's going to be booked like this in the ring. Glamarella is going nowhere fast. Nice to see a re-focused effort from WWE to give Cryme Tyme decent TV exposure this week. (*)

3 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. JBL

Awkward spot early in the match, as JBL and Michaels kinda ran into each other mid-ring. Michaels appeared to lose a tooth, then JBL paused to look down at Michaels and they called an audible. JBL went on the offensive, but Michaels came back with forearm blows. JBL had a spot of blood on his forehead, then he took control. JBL smashed Michaels with a right hand and Michaels fell through the ropes to the floor. The action moved to the floor where Michaels rammed JBL head-first into the ringpost. Ref started a ten count and both men made it back in at eight-ish. Cut to break.

Back from break, JBL was in control smashing Michaels with right hands in the corner. They had an exchange up top, then JBL kicked him in the jaw to knock Michaels to the outside. Ref applied another ten count, but Michaels made it back into the ring at six. JBL then smashed him with a short-arm clothesline for a two count. Michaels made his comeback at 11:00 and nailed a top rope elbow smash square in the chest. He then tuned up the band anticipating WrestleMania 25, but JBL ducked. They had an exchange where JBL nailed a big boot to the face after Michaels skinned the cat back into the ring.

JBL started to talk trash leaning down toward Michaels, then he wanted the Clothesline from Hell, but JBL gave Michaels enough time to recover and catch JBL off the ropes with Sweet Chin Music for the pin and the win. Nice finishing spot.

WINNER: Michaels at 13:02. Solid TV match. Gotta love how WWE set up the audience to think Michaels vs. JBL was for a shot at Taker without telling them it was a virtual semi-final match to face Kozlov next week. Michaels was great at the end. (**)

4 -- MIKE KNOX vs. JAMIE NOBLE

They put a clock in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen. Thanks for that, as my stopwatch decided to freeze at bell time. Knox with a big boot, then the Knox Out in center ring for an easy pin and the win. He lasted 29 seconds, though.

WINNER: Knox at 0:29. Apparently Noble is going to WrestleMania?

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Cena quickly landed a hard clothesline before brushing the dirt off his shoulder for the Five Knuckle Shuffle with eye contact to Vickie. Cena nailed the FU before slapping on the STFU while staring toward Vicke, who remained on stage. Chavo tapped out and Cena scored the win.

WINNER: Cena at 0:45. This whole angle just feels so lost. It started with a ridiculous opening segment for the first of two bait and switches on the show. WWE just needs to stop fooling around and book a WrestleMania match between Cena and Edge, so they can move on to hyping it. (n/a)

The opening 10+ minutes was all Vickie/Edge/Cena, the middle with Ricky Steamboat/Jericho confrontation and the final 13 minutes with Orton/Triple H. A whole lotta talking tonight.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 25 2009, 11:56 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 2-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30259.shtml)

1 -- D.J. GABRIEL (w/Alicia Fox) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

They joined Gabriel's ring intro routine near the end as he finished a dance mid-ring. Gabriel continues to remind me more of Adrian Street than anyone else. If he grew his hair out and softened up his physique, it'd be uncanny even on promos. Whatever legal supplement he takes should be handed out to pro wrestlers who can't get the look they want on WWE's Wellness Program, not to mention Major League Baseball players. He looks like he's right out of the pre-Wellness Program era, which when you look back at old tapes is remarkably different from top to bottom of the card (especially among mid-carders and lower). Gabriel dropkicked Henry early, but Henry brushed it off. Grisham referred to Gabriel's multi-colored trunks as "Rubix Cube-looking." I'd vote for "Tetris-looking" myself, moving the reference from the 1980s into the 1990s. A fan held up a sign: "I Love You Nash." Wrong taping. Henry won with a powerslam.

WINNER: Henry in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- Fine for a virtual squash.

2 -- TYSON KIDD (W/NATALYA) vs. MATT BOYCE

Any fans dating back to the 1980s has to love this format, a throwback to when wrestlers got to win squashes to establish their key moves and get decisive wins. Speaking of the 1980s, Striker referred to Boyce as the third Mulky. I'd say more so a cross between Crazy Jonny Fairplay and a rookie Jeff Jarrett. Kidd took over after a minute with a barrage of kicks and punches and stomps. He finished Boyce with a jump spin sidekick and a springboard elbowdrop to the chest.

WINNER: Kidd in 2:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Good squash. Kidd looked good with his signature style offense. It seems with the placement of the Bourne vignette that a Bourne-Kidd feud may be coming up soon. I'm all for that. Those could be great TV matches if given proper time.

3 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Dreamer began aggressively and knocked Burchill over the top rope with a clothesline. At 2:00 Dreamer dominated, with Burchill hung upside down in the Tree of Woe. He went for a slidekick, but Katie Lea yanked Burchill out of the path. At that point she was yanked by her leg under the ring. Boogeyman's music played and he chased Vickie away. Dreamer then surprised a distracted Burchill with a DDT for the win. Grisham stressed that he gets to tout a Dreamer win for once.

WINNER: Dreamer in 3:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Good fast-pace with Dreamer showing good energy and aggression.

4 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. CHRISTIAN - ECW Hvt. Title match

Grisham said Christian said he wanted to come to ECW to test himself against top young talent in ECW, and Swagger is just that. Swagger is one of those heels who you can't watch for more than ten seconds without wanting to boo him for being so obnoxious and dorky as he makes his way to the ring. He just hams it up with nothing held back, and that wide white-toothed smile just begs to be punched. They did a formal ring introduction for the title match. Striker billed Swagger at 6-6 and Christian at 6-2. I don't see a four inch difference. I'd guess they're 6-0 and 6-2 out of boots. After some traditional wrestling exchanges, Christian took control. He settled into his signature standing side headlock. Swagger powered out and lifted Christian and threw him into the corner where he jabbed his abdomen with his shoulders. Swagger said every major championship has changed hands in Nashville: In 2002, Undertaker won the WWE Title, the World Title changed hands at Starrcade in 1995, and in 1999 Masato Tanaka vs. Mike Awesome led to an ECW Title change. "History is not on the champion Jack Swagger's side tonight," he said. Not sure I buy his relational logic, but nice historical references. Christian ducked a charging Swagger at 5:00, then dove over the top rope onto him at ringside. They cut to a break.

Swagger took control after the break with a forearm to the back of Christian's neck. Striker said Christian controlled the match during the break. Swagger shoulder tackled Christian off the ring apron to the floor. Christian charged at Swagger, but Swagger moved and Christian bashed into the ringside steps. Swagger settled into working on Christian's arm center-ring. He went into an arm stretch with his legs lodged against Christian's shoulder and armpit. Christian escaped and rolled into a side headlock. Swagger escaped into an elbow lock. Christian escaped with a headbutt. Swagger immediately spun Christian into a shoulder breaker. Nice chain sequence. Christian rolled to the edge of the ring and they cut to another break.

Back to the match, Swagger controlled the match with mat wrestling. Christian made a comeback at 18:00 and went for a top rope diving headbutt. Swagger moved. Swagger gave Christian a Northern Lights suplex, but Christian escaped before three. They countered each other, with Christian eventually scoring a near fall on Swagger at 20:00. Swagger went for a corner swing splash, but Christian lifted his knees and then hit a sunset flip for a near fall that popped the crowd at 21:00. Swagger met Christian on the top rope. Christian punched Swagger to the mat, then hit a frog splash for a very near fall. Christian followed up with a DDT, but Christian sold his arm being in great pain, delaying his cover. When he did make the cover, Swagger kicked out just before three at 21:00. Swagger threw Christian shoulder-first into the ringpost. Swagger escaped a backslide attempt, but Swagger turned it into a gut-wrench powerbomb and Swagger scored the clean pin.

WINNER: Swagger in 22:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/2 -- Really strong TV main event. The finish was a real endorsement of Swagger's star being on the rise as there was no interference or cheating, just a hard-fought win over a long-time established star. If Christian's not being punished for signing with TNA, I don't know what the story is. Christian will still probably end up utilized in a nice money-spot for a few years, but his early treatment indicates he's paying a price he wouldn't have paid if had instead been out of action for three years with an injury or semi-retirement on good terms with WWE. Swagger, though, deserves the win as he continues to evolve as a likely future main eventer. ECW continues to be a show you ought to be watching if you're not.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 28 2009, 10:35 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30312.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MADISON RAIN & TAYLOR WILDE vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (w/Cute Kip)

Taylor dominated early. Rain tagged in. Taylor got in Kip's face when he acted as a distraction to the advantage of the BPs. The BPs dominated from then out for several minutes until a hot tag to Taylor at 4:00. Taylor went on a flurry of offense against Love. The BPs double-teamed Taylor to take control. Rain jumped in to check on Taylor, but then slapped her. This is why people who hate TNA, hate TNA. The pace of booking in terms of turns has all the patience of a three year old. It'd be hilarious if it weren't so frustrating to watch. It happened so quickly with Madison that it means about as close to nothing as is possible, if not actually nothing at all. Rain walked out as Sky finished Wilde with the Beauty Mark finisher. You haven't lived until you've heard Tenay say "Biyatch-slap."

WINNERS: The Beautiful People in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *

2 -- BEER MONEY INC. (w/Miss Jacqueline) vs. ROCK 'N' RAVE CONNECTION -- Tag Titles vs. Loser Leaves Town

Rave got in some early offense against James Storm. RnR threw a double elbow drop on Roode next. Roode made a comeback against Rave, including dropping him neck-first over the top rope leading to a two count. Rave came back with a hard clothesline at 3:00. Rave hot-tagged Rock in. He punched away at both Roode and Storm. Rock gave Roode his overhead slam finisher. Jackie distracted the ref was Storm KO'd Rock with his belt for the win. Lance Rock must now leave TNA. The replay of the finish was sponsored by Popeye's Chicken. That's new.

WINNERS: Beer Money Inc. at 4:00.

STAR RATING: *

3 -- AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED vs. SOUJOURNER BOLT & RHAKA KHAN

Tenay called the match solo. Khan took control on Saeed, but when Kong tagged in, she took control. She splashed Khan hard in the corner, then tagged Saeed back in. Saeed drew Bolt into the ring with a shove. Kong dropped Saeed onto Khan. Saeed hot-tagged Bolt into the ring and she went on an offensive run against Saeed. When Kong entered the ring, Bolt jumped on her. Saeed yanked her off. Khan went after Saeed. Four-way action broke out. Kong whipped Khan into Saeed. Kong threw Khan over the top rope to the floor. Bolt then finished Saeed with a sidekick to the chin as Kong and Khan fought at ringside. Bolt then pinned Saeed with a backslide. Afterward, Kong gave an Awesome Bomb to Bolt on top of Khan.

WINNERS: Bolt & Khan in 5:00.

STAR RATING: neg. * -- Really lousy match. Almost everything in the final two minutes was awful and awkward. The crowd didn't like this at all, either.

4 -- ALEX SHELLEY vs. "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. CHRIS SABIN -- Ladder Match X Title match

The X Title was hanging above the ring. It's just absurd that the threw this on TV with zero build up or backstory. They could get so much more out of these matches than they do, it's so frustrating. A four-way match, a ladder match, and a title match each should be treated a very big deal on TV; to throw all three stips together and barely mention it ahead of time is a booking crime of inefficiency. Without hype, it just seems so much less important. Sabin and Shelley worked together early with success. As Creed and Lethal slid ladders into the ring, Sabin and Shelley slidekicked the ladders, k knocking Creed and Lethal to the mat. They went to a break at 2:00.

Back from the break, Creed and Lethal set Sabin on a ladder bridging the middle rope and an upright latter center-ring. Sabin came back by dropping Creed over that ladder and then throwing him to the floor. Sabin then climbed the ladder to reach for the belt, but Lethal cut him off. Lethal one-arm slammed Sabin off one ladder onto the other. Ouch. Shelley then gave Lethal a jawbreaker off of the ladder. Shelley gave Creed his Sliced Bread move off the ladder. He then grabbed the X belt to win.

WINNER: Shelley in 8:00 to retain the X Title.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Some cool spots, but it all felt rushed and the finish was anticlimactic as a result.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 01 2009, 11:39 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-27-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1004762.shtml).

1. Primo and Carlito Colon defeated The Miz and John Morrison to retain the WWE Tag Team Championships at 12:14. Miz and Primo started out and did some quick mat wrestling. Carlito tagged in and hit a dropkick for two. Miz punched him and tagged in Morrison. Carlito pinned Morrison in the corner and tagged in Primo. He whipped Primo into Morrison, spearing him in the corner. Carlito tagged back in and cinched in a headlock.

The Bellas twins came to the ring distracting Carlito. Morrison whipped him to the corner, and the he was distracted by the twins. They weren’t doing anything but standing there, but they guys were checking them out. Carlito hit Morrison, who fell out of the ring. Miz charged in and got tossed over the top. Primo teased a plancha but landed on the apron and pulled the top rope down so Carlito could dive over the top on Miz and Morrison right in front of the Bellas…

Back from commercial at the 6:50 mark and Carlito hit a drop toe hold on Morrison and Primo followed with a diving headbutt. Morrison reversed a whip and sent Primo into the corner with Miz. Primo flipped over the top, punched Miz to the floor, and jumped back in over Morrison. Morrison hit his springboard kick, sending Primo to the floor. Miz beat on him, tossed him back in, and then tagged in and locked in a Camel Clutch type move. Primo fought out but Miz whipped him to the corner and hit his through the ropes clothesline for two. Another headlock followed. Primo tried to fight out, Miz pushed him back into Morrison, they bumped heads and then Primo and Miz bumped heads.

Carlito got the hot tag at 10:54 and he cleaned house. He tossed Miz to the floor and tried to suplex Morrison, but Morrison reversed into a small package for two. Morrison took a shot at Primo but missed. Primo tried to come in, distracting the ref. Morrison whipped Carltio to the ropes. Carlito tried to springboard, but Miz caught him and dropped his throat on the top rope. Primo dove through the ropes to take out Miz. Morrison went for his finisher, but Carltio reversed into the backstabber for the win. Post match, the Colons convinced the Bellas to leave with them…

Shore’s Slant: Fun match from these four. I assume we will see a World Tag Title match next week or the week after, and then a unification match at Mania. Just my guess. I’m tired of the Bellas angle though. They should wrestle or go away.

2. Vladimir Kozlov defeated The Undertaker at 11:59. JR asked what would happen if Taker locked in the Devil’s Gate. How many times are they going call this by a different name? Kozlov hit a shoulder tackle and celebrated. He hit a second one and celebrated again. Kozlov tried to charge in for another collar and elbow and ate a boot. He rolled out of a elbow drop and clotheslined Taker over the ropes. Taker landed on his feet and stared at Kozlov who celebrated in the ring. Kozlov turned around and their eyes met as JR said, “Something has to give.”…

Back from commercial at 5:50, Taker hit his leg drop on the apron. A replay video showed Taker and Kozlov both hit the security rail during the break. Taker tried to lock in the aforementioned Devil’s Gate, but Kozlov pulled free and hit three headbutts. Kozlov continued to assault Taker. Taker managed to whip Kozlov into the corner once, but Kozlov bounced out for a clothesline and then locked in a chin lock rest hold. Taker fought to his feet and reversed out using a belly to back suplex.

Both men back to their feet and started trading blows. Taker reversed a back drop into a DDT for two. Taker hit Snake Eyes and Kozlov almost undersold. Taker followed up with a sidewalk slam for two. He grabbed Kozlov’s throat, but he pushed Taker away to the ropes. Taker bounced and hit a big boot for another two. Taker stood Kozlov up and locked hands. He climbed the rope to Old School, but Kozlov pulled him off into a powerslam for the win. Post match Kozlov backed up the ramp smiling/rubbing his mouth. Taker looked on surprised.

Shore’s Slant: Well color me surprised. I understand why Kozlov wins. Now he looks strong heading into the match with HBK. But I never thought they would do it. As far as the match goes, it was pretty good, especially for TV. The problem with the match is it shows Kozlovs limitations right now, because I don’t know how they could make it better for Mania. IT almost foreshadowed Shawn’s win on Monday.

3. Chavo Guerrero defeated Shelton Benjamin at 2:52. JR said he found it interesting Aunt Vickie didn’t make this a title match. Benjamin beat down Chavo and tossed him to the corner. He stared down MVP and then missed a Stinger Splash. Chavo hit two of Three Amigos. On the last, Benjamin flipped over Chavo and pushed him into the ropes. Chavo came off and hit a Tilt-a-Whirl Hurricanrana. He went to the top, but Benjamin jumped up and Superplexed him. Chavo rolled out and Benjamin followed right in front of the announce table.

Benjamin and MVP stared each other down. Benjamin picked up Chavo is a powerbomb setup, and then tossed him onto MVP. That was cool. Benjamin rolled Chavo back in the ring. He got in and looked back at MVP. He said, “MVP, your time’s coming.” He went to pick up Chavo, but Chavo rolled him up for the win. Chavo backed up the ramp and Benjamin watched. MVP slipped into the ring and hit the Drive-By on Benjamin…

Shore’s Slant: I just hope this US Title match happens before Mania so MVP can be in MITB.

4. The Big Show defeated John Cena at 20:00. The bell rang with Twenty-two minutes left in the show. Cena got one shot in on Show before Show backed him in a corner and started his methodical beat down. Edge and Vickie were shown backstage watching on a monitor. The announce team went on and on wondering what was in it for Show to be in this match. Cena managed to fight out of his beat down but got shoulder/body tackled by Show. And the beat down continued. Punches, followed by headbutts, followed by chops. You’ve all seen a Big Show match, yeah?

Cena tried to fight out again, but Show hit a sidewalk slam. Cena tried to stand but somehow got tied up in the ropes. Show hit three big right hands to the body. Cena rolled out and tried to pick up Show for the Attitude Adjustment, but Show just looked at him. He went back to the beat down as the announce team continued to speculate about what was in it for Show.

Show kept hard whipping Cena from corner to corner. On the third, he charged in and Cena kicked him in the face. He jumped onto Show’s back and locked in a sleeper. After being in the sleeper for 42 seconds, Show finally went to a knee. After another seven, he quick dropped Cena into a sidewalks slam to break the hold. Both men were down going into commercial...

Back at 11:59 and Show hit a suplex on Cena. Cena rolled to the apron and stood up. Show knocked off the apron onto the announce table. He picked up Cena on his shoulder, but Cena slid off his back, pushing Show into the post. Both men rolled back in and Cena tried to hit a bulldog, but Show pushed him off with one hand. Cena actually bounced out of the ring. He got back in and Show continued the power assault. He locked in a nerve pinch at 15:32.

Cena powered out and attacked. He tried to pick up Show, but fell back for a two count. Show drug him to the corner and missed his elbow off the second rope. Cena climbed the turnbuckle and hit the Fameasser and Five Knuckle Shuffle. He again tried to pick up Show for the Attitude Adjuster, but Show countered into a powerbomb onto Cena’s face. Show setup for the chokeslam, but Cena slipped out and finally hit the Attitude Adjuster. He was crawling to make the cover when Edge slid into the ring and immediately back out without touching Cena. He stood there and looked at Cena who stopped crawling and stared at Edge. Show recovered and hit the knock out punch on Cena. He picked him up and chokeslammed him for the win. Post match, Edge climbed in the ring and stood over Cena talking crap…

Shore’s Slant: I like Show for about seven to ten minutes, but after that it becomes the same set of moves. Just boring, that’s all. Decent match and I once again commend WWE for doing a double taping well. The crowd was hot through both shows and both were enjoyable. A 3 ½ star outing tonight that progressed several storylines and entertained. Thanks for reading and I’ll see you next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 04 2009, 02:45 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30388.shtml)

1 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. MIKE KNOX vs. KANE -- MITB qualifying match

Rey was ragdolled to the outside early on, then Knox and Kane kicked each other in the head. Cut to commercial.

Back from break, Knox and Kane were battling in the ring. Rey then fought his way back into the ring and kinda executed a huracanrana on Knox, who did a tumble to sell it. Rey made a cover on Knox, but Knox thought Kane was going to break it up, so he kicked out at like 3 1/2 when the ref took a really nice long pause before three. On the next pin attempt, Kane broke it up before a one count. Rey with some more acrobatics running circles around the big men, then Rey put Knox in position for the 619, only Kane intercepted with a chokeslam attempt that Rey countered into the 619. Rey with a seated sentaun, but Knox kicked Rey in the head. Jamie Noble part two almost. Knox with the Knox Out on Rey, then Kane grabbed Knox and gave him a chokeslam for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kane scooped up Rey and gave him a chokeslam before leaving, satisfied with himself.

WINNER: Kane at 8:50 to qualify for MITB. Decent match with a good finish. Surprising result, but Kane's been in a few MITB matches to have those big man vs. small man sequences. (*1/2)

2 -- JILLIAN HALL & BETH PHOENIX (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES

Divas champion Maryse and Women's champion Melina were on commentary for this one. Not much was said. Kelly scored a sunset flip on Jillian for the pin and the win. Afterward, Rosa jumped Kelly, then the diva champions tried to intervene, but Maryse suddenly took out Melina ringside. Maryse then did her little posing and apparently we have a Women's champion vs. Divas champion match for WrestleMania.

WINNERS: Kelly & Mickie at 2:50. Just a set-up for the apparent champion vs. champion match at WrestleMania. (1/2*)

3 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. KOZLOZ

Heavy focus from the announcers on Kozlov having never been pinned in Double Double E. Michaels escaped an early attack from Koz and put him on his back for an early figure four attempt. Kozlov reversed pressure, though, and wanted the big slam, but Michaels took a breather on the floor.

Kozlov was in control out of the break working on Michaels's back. Kozlov took his sweet time waiting for Michaels to get back to his feet to take the torture rack. Not quite Lex Luger quality here. Michaels finally fought out, but he walked into a back elbow smash to the mouth. Kozlov with a cover for a two count. Michaels tried to come back with the "vintage" flying forearm before a kip up, but Kozlov met him in mid-air with a headbutt smash for a two count.

They battled up top and Michaels threw some forearm smashes, but Kozlov didn't budge. Michaels finally threw Kozlov down to the mat before slowly making his way to his feet up top for a flying elbow at 10:00. Michaels started to tune up the band, then he smashed Kozlov square in the jaw with Sweet Chin Music for the pin and the win. Clean. Kozlov takes his first loss.

WINNER: Michaels at 10:40. I expected some form of outside interference, so it was surprising to see Michaels nail the superkick clean in the middle for the win. Good finish after Kozlov had offense throughout the match. (*1/2)

4 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. JOHN CENA -- World Heavyweight Title match

Champ and challenger went through the feeling out process early on, then Edge knocked down Cena early on. Cena hooked the top rope after taking a whip to the ropes, then Edge charged and flew over the top rope to the floor. Time for a break.

Back from break, Edge was in control working on Cena's injured head and jaw from Big Show's work on Smackdown. Cena was backed into a corner, then Edge ran him over with a clothesline. Something went flying from Cena's person before Edge made a cover for a two count.

Cena ducked a clothesline and nailed a series of flying shoulder tackles. Goodness, Cole with the over-use of "vintage" again. Cena with a sit-out slam, then he told Edge You Can't See Me. Cena missed with the Five Knuckle shuffle, though, and Edge rolled him for a two count. Cena wanted the Attitude Adjustment, but Edge slipped out into the Edge-o-matic slam for a two count. They battled up top and Cena took a fall into the ringpost to the floor. Ref started his ten count as the fans screamed in sheer horror that Cena could be counted out. Cena suddenly jumped into the ring just before ten, then he made a comeback with a top rope guillotine leg smash.

Cena wanted the Shuffle one more time and this time he connected after brushing the dirt off his shoulder. Cena wanted the Adjustment, but Edge blocked into a Sharpshooter. Ugly *** Shooter, but Cena sold pain near the ropes. Cena played to the top row of the arena before reaching out to the bottom rope for a rope break. Great sequence. Edge then readied himself for the spear, but Cena wasn't moving. Cena finally made his way to his feet, Edge charged, and Cena slapped on the STFU in center ring. Edge cried out in pain as the camera focused on the WM banner hanging above the arena. Edge then reached out with one last gasp and grabbed the bottom rope for a break.

Cena caught his breath after releasing the hold, then Edge took advantage with the spear out of nowhere. He didn't make an immediate cover, though, and Cena kicked out just before three. Edge, frustrated, grabbed the World Title belt. Cena blocked a belt shot, though, and wanted the Adjustment. Edge grabbed the belt from the ref while up on Cena's shoulders, then he smashed Cena in the face with the belt to earn a DQ. Cena was declared the winner, but Edge kept the World Title belt.

Post-match: Cena caught his breath in the ring while Edge recovered on the stage. Big Show then walked out on stage and stared down at Edge before staring into the ring. Suddenly, Vickie Guerrero came out on stage and stood to the left of Edge, who was still seated on stage. Vickie introduced the #1 contender to the World Title at WrestleMania, Big Show. In the ring, John Cena could only look down in disbelief. Edge was in a state of disbelief. Show and Vickie walked off. Edge and Cena were collectively dumbfounded. Cena held his head in his hands, currently without a WrestleMania match. End show.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 12:22; Edge retains World Title. Ah, a classic Edge vs. Cena match on free TV. So great. You could see the finish coming either via run-in or Edge DQ'ing himself. Now, we have an issue of where Cena goes from here. I don't see Edge vs. Show as a marquee title match for WrestleMania, so I imagine they will turn this into a triple threat at some point based on Cena not losing the match, but not winning the title. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 04 2009, 03:49 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 3-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30426.shtml)

1 -- KANE vs. THE BOOGEYMAN

Bell sounded and Boogey slowly approached Kane with some worms in hand. A small token of gratitude, but Kane met him with a sudden uppercut. Boogey recovered and went up top, but Kane caught him in mid-air for a one-hand chokeslam in center ring. Kane with the cover for the decisive win.

WINNER: Kane in 2:00. Well, there went Boogeyman. So, back to page one of rebuilding Boogey via five straight weeks of squash matches? Perhaps it's time to acknowledge the need to repackage Boogey. Kane was impressive, however. (1/2*)

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Rosa Mendes and Beth Phoenix) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Bell sounded and Henry stonewalled Santino with a chest bump. Santino rolled to the outside to recover, then Henry and Beth exchanged a few firm glances. Santino tried to attack Henry in the ring with a burst of steam, but Henry no-sold. He was not amused. Henry finally had enough and scooped up Santino for the World's Strongest Slam. Santino was hilarious going completely stiff in center ring. Henry with the cover on Santino for the win. He then pointed to the briefcase hanging above the ring.

WINNER: Henry in 2:00. Punk, Henry, and Kane have qualified for MITB now. WWE needs to add some speed in this one. It could be fun to watch Henry climb a ladder and/or ragdoll some folks around, though. Santino was fine playing the comedy fool. (1/2*)

3 -- NATALYA (w/Tyson Kidd) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/D.J. Gabriel)

Grisham said Fox is very green, with it being only her second singles match in WWE. Natalya worked over Fox center ring, then Fox came back with a standing dropkick. Nice execution. Natalya backed off, then kicked Fox in the gut and landed a powerslam out of the corner. Natalya put Fox in an abdominal stretch, then Gabriel tried to fire up the crowd. Fox escaped, then made a comeback with a clothesline and roll up with a bridge for a two count. Fox tried a huracanrana, but Natalya blocked and slapped on the Sharpshooter. Natalya leaned deep into that hold and Fox was forced to tap out.

Post-match: Gabriel was checking on Fox, then Kidd tried to jump Gabriel from behind. Gabriel fought him off, though, and uppercutted Kidd to the floor. Both sides recovered to apparently set up a mixed tag in the next week or two.

WINNER: Natalya in 4:00. Really nice match. Alicia is solid in only her second TV match. Natalya is already the "steady hand" in the women's division, taking the ball from Victoria. Natalya has a lot of upside. (*1/4)

4 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) & CHRISTIAN & TOMMY DREAMER vs. ECW champion JACK SWAGGER & World tag team champions MIZ & MORRISON

A minute into the match, Hornswoggle jumped through the ropes with a splash onto the tag champs. Chaos ruled, and off to a commercial.

Back from break, IHOP was working over Miz in the ring. Grisham made the astute observation on the other side of the break that Miz has no reason to wear batting gloves to a wrestling match. Dreamer then tagged in for IHOP and dropped an elbow on Miz. Striker with an excellent enhancement point that Christian went through intense physical therapy after last week's shoulder work from Swagger in order to compete in the ring tonight. All we needed was a video package on Christian training. Dreamer lost control for IHOP when he turned his attention to Miz allowing Morrison to nail a step-up enziguiri kick.

At 10:00, anti-IHOP continued its attack on Dreamer. Swagger nailed a belly-to-belly suplex, but Dreamer kicked out in time. Swagger wanted a second rope dive, but Dreamer got his knees up. He finally escaped and hot-tagged Christian, who came in hot on Morrison. Christian accidentally bumped into Finlay, but he ducked attacks from Mo and Miz before nailing a float-over sunset flip on Mo for a close two count. Christian then kicked Mo in the face before going to the second rope for a sweet-looking tornado DDT.

Action broke down, then Christian nailed Morrison with a diving headbutt. He made the cover, but Miz broke up the pin. Finlay got involved and took Miz to the floor. Mo and Christian battled in center ring, but Swagger took a blind tag in the process. Christian nailed Mo with the Killswitch, but Swagger snuck in behind Christian to hit the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. Afterward, Swagger gloated, Miz celebrated, and Morrison tried to figure out what state he was in. Swagger gloating like only the ECW champ can was our final shot to close the show.

WINNERS: Team Swagger in 13:00. Excellent finish. Christian looks so revitalized compared to when he was going through the motions at the end of his TNA run. He made himself stand out since he was booked to lose the match, which is what a good wrestler should do to make the pre-pinfall action more important than the result. Swagger has momentum back with the straight-up win last week and sneaky victory this week. Swagger vs. Christian at WrestleMania could be a really great undercard match. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 06 2009, 11:08 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30483.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results since there was a whole lot of jawing going on.

1 -- ALEX SHELLEY (w/Chris Sabin) vs. KIYOSHI -- X Division Title match

With all of these tournaments and special matches TNA holds where wrestlers earn X Division Title matches, what exactly did Kiyoshi do to deserve this "out of the blue" title match? As Tenay talked about the Sting-Angle situation, West said he wishes Tenay could look at it objectively. It was the first sign of tension between them since their first exchange earlier. Rapid fire back and forth action early. Shelley won clean with a frog splash.

WINNER: Shelley in 4:00 to retain the X Title.

STAR RATING: *1/4 -- What was the point of that being an X Title match? Why not do something to build it up ahead of time so it seemed to mean something? And to have the announcers spend most of the match talking about the MEM, it really diminished any chance the X Title had of feeling even the slightest bit important. I mean, when you're trying to sell the Ultimate X match so hard, why not treat an X Title match as something of value and worth focusing on instead of throwing it out there as a backdrop to discussing something else?

2 -- THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (Angelina Love & Velvet Sky w/Kip James) vs. RYESHA SAEED & AWESOME KONG vs. ROXXI & TAYLOR WILDE (w/The Gov)

Tenay took another dig at West, tying in what Madison Rain did to Taylor Wilde, saying he wouldn't expect him to understand someone with experience take someone green under their wing only to get stabbed in the back. West said opinions are like You Know What, but he suggested they rise about it all and call the match. Madison walked toward ringside and they cut to a break at 1:00.

Chaos broke out shortly after the break. Tenay took another dig at West, saying "Nobody likes being humiliated in national television," a reference to the BPs being caught buying into The Gov's Sarah Palin impersonation. The Gov got involved in the ring, after which so did Madison, followed by Love pinning Roxxi.

WINNERS: The BPs in 6:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2* -- Just nondescript chaos throughout. Too much at once and everything felt rushed and frenetic.

3 -- MATT MORGAN vs. SHANE SEWELL

Tenay said we're about to find out if Sewell has the physical ability to compete with Morgan. Tenay then shifted to criticizing West for walking off the show again because he can't take criticism. Tenay said West has disrespected the fans by walking out on the show. Morgan toyed with Sewell early until Sewell surprised hom with a dropkick off the second rope after Sewell argued with a referee. Sewell went for a monkey flip, but Morgan countered with a powerbomb. Tenay said Cornette has "taken back" the Legends Championship belt, which has Booker PO'd. Tenay said Cornette wants to get control of the situation. Wait, Booker just made up that belt himself, so how is it something Cornette could "take back" control of. It was never legit or sanctioned to begin with. Morgan gave Sewell a fallaway slam, posturing and waving to the camera first. When he went for the pin, Morgan lifted Sewell's shoulder before the three count. Sewell made a ridiculous Tommy Dreamer comeback with his corny facial expressions. Morgan brushed him off, though, and set up a chokeslam. Sewell gave Morgan a low blow, then climbed to the top rope. Morgan side-stepped him and shoved him face-first to the mat. He followed with his Hellivator finisher. It looked more like Sewell DDT'd him; it's one of those moves where you can't really tell who's supposed to be hurt on the move.

WINNER: Morgan in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4*

4 -- BEER MONEY INC. (Robert Roode & James Storm w/Jacqueline) vs. LAX (Homicide & Hernandez)

Homicide took control of Storm at the start. Homicide slidekicked Storm and Roode at ringside at 1:00. Hernandez then Border Tossed his own partner Homicide onto Beer Money on the floor, and then they cut to a break.

The heels controlled for a while after the break, but at 8:00 LAX came back and Hernandez hit his big dive over the top rope. When Homicide chased Jackie, that gave Roode an opening. Hernandez spit beer out of Storm's beer bottle in his face. He set up his Border Toss, but Roode entered with a hair and bashed Hernandez over the head (unprotected) and the ref called for the DQ. As Beer Money beat down LAX, Team 3D made the save.

WINNERS: LAX via DQ in 9:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Basic stuff with a copout finish, but one that fit the storyline since neither LAX member are leaving TNA, but Beer Money aren't losing the tag belts yet.

FINAL THOUGHTS (4.0): I've seen better, I've seen worse. The flippant treatment of the X Title match, the odd follow-up with the West-Tenay situation (with Tenay not addressing West's point of criticism that he backstabbed him at a meeting), and Super-Jeff-O-Mac mixed with a bunch of decent but rushed other segments and matches. There were some decent performances by Sting, Mick Foley, Kevin Nash, and even Jarrett (who was good in his role, albeit he remains overpushed and somewhat delusional in the Stone Cold TNA Founder Sage Role - and what was with that speed-talking in the opening segment?), but the booking foundation remains largely a mess. Nash probably gets my MVP vote for doing a better job trying to make sense of and fill in the gaping logic holes in the MEM Sting-Angle situation.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 08 2009, 12:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report)/ (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30516.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- MATT HARDY vs. MVP - MONEY-IN-THE-BANK QUALIFYING MATCH

MVP applied a waist-lock early on and had the crowd behind him quickly and, ironically, like Matt used to. Corner clothesline by Matt, but MVP shrugged off a bulldog attempt. He went for the Playmaker less than two minutes in, but he couldn’t hit it. They ended up having a stand-off as the show continues.

Matt had MVP in a reverse chinlock on the mat. They showed how Matt got control during the break. Shades of Big Bossman as Hady sat down on MVP’s back with Montel Vontavious Porter’s throat draped over the middle rope. He took MVP down to the ground again. Overhead throw by MVP. MVP took Matt’s face and jammed it into his knee in a move that really hit. Roll-up by MVP for two. Side Effect by Hardy to regain control. He set up for the Twist of Fate, but MVP countered into a jacknife cover and got the pin.

WINNER: MVP, at 7:57. Ah, takes me back to the days of the great Matt vs. MVP feud.

2- MARYSE vs. EVE TORRES

Maryse tried to do the test of strength and God bless Eve, she fell for it. Maryse pulled her hand away, then went into the ropes for a break, then gyrated for a bit. In slow motion, Even leap-frogged Maryse then hit an enziguiri on her. Maryse went to the outside, and suckered Eve back into the ring. Michelle did some dissing of both ladies on commentary. When Maryse is the veteran hand in the ring, you’re in trouble. Not that she isn’t good, but I don’t think she’s good enough to carry someone as green as Eve. Dropkick by Eve that caught Maryse’s.....well, hand I guess. To the middle rope, but Eve missed a cross-body. Nice DDT by Maryse to finish it.

WINNER: Maryse, at 3:26. A step back for Eve this week. Not a good match.

3- JEFF HARDY vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN- MONEY-IN-THE-BANK QUALIFYING MATCH

Northern Lights Suplex about 30 seconds in for Benjamin, which got two. Hardy went off the ropes and Shelton ducked a cross-body attempt, which sent Hardy to the floor. Hardy turned the tables on the outside and flung himself off the stairs and into Shelton. Both men were down as the show went to break.

Shelton had Jeff by the hair out of break and had Hardy in a chin-lock, with his knee stuck right in Jeff’s back. Pin attempt for Shelton got two. Hardy came back to hit the double legdrop right in the lower abdomen of Benjamin. Low dropkick for two. As Jeff continued his onslaught, Matt Hardy wandered down to ringside. He climbed up the steps as Jeff hit Whisper in the Wind. Matt caught his eye but Jeff didn’t go for him. A terrible Twist of Fate was hit by Jeff, then Matt entered the ring. The brothers went face-to-face, then Matt punched Shelton, causing referee Chad Patton to throw out the match.

WINNER: Benjamin, at 9:28. I know I’ve said this before, but things like that should be left to the referee’s discretion; it shouldn’t be an automatic DQ when it’s obvious someone like Matt is trying to get the other guy disqualified. I know it’s not REAL but WWE should set things up so it would make a little more sense.

4- TRIPLE H vs. UMAGA

HHH started out hot, socking Umaga in the head with a bevy of right hands. Umaga returned the shots with headbutts. Whip into the corner, but HHH came out with a vengeance, clotheslining the Samoan Bulldozer. Umaga nailed The Game with a superkick. JR questioned whether or not Trips could recover from the kick. Legdrop by Umaga for two. HHH came back with a knee to Umaga’s face. Thrust to the throat of The Game allowed Umaga time to recover. Trips low-bridged him and Umaga dove over the top rope and to the outside of the ring. Out of nowhere, The Legacy ran threw the crowd and surrounded the ring. HHH held off Cody Rhodes, but Dibiase and Orton came in to attack and the numbers game got the best of him for a while. The ref is nowhere to be seen, so let’s call it....

WINNER: Triple H via DQ, at about 3:30 (no bell).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 10 2009, 01:36 pm
WWE RAW Results: 3-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30561.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only so click the linky to read all about the Stone Cold/Brian Pullman...er...a...Triple H/Randy Orton 'home invasion'.

1 -- IC champion C.M. PUNK vs. JBL -- Intercontinental Title match

Punk was in control going into the break after nailing a suicide dive on the floor. They returned with JBL in control. Awkward pin attempt at 7:00 when JBL made a cover and Punk kinda rolled up a shoulder to escape a pin. Punk came back with a swinging DDT off the top rope, then kick strikes and a leg whip. Punk nailed a top rope clothesline and a high knee/running bulldog combo for a two count at 9:00. Punk tried the Go 2 Sleep, but JBL raked the eyes and nailed the Clothesline from Hell for the pin and the win. JBL accepted the IC Title belt with glee and celebrated his victory. Punk, meanwhile, checked his eyes for vision.

WINNER: JBL at 9:35 to capture the IC Title. You could see that finish coming, but it would have been nice for actual build-up to a title match. Interesting to see where this will be going with JBL looking to do something shocking at WrestleMania concerning the IC Title. (*1/2)

2 -- Divas champion Maryse vs. Women's champion Melina -- non-title match

Lumberjills were surrounding the ring for this one. Maryse dominated Melina early and often. She put Melina in the bow and arrow, then cut off a comeback and kicked Melina in the head. She then rolled her up for the pin and the win. Afterward, Smackdown and Raw divas squared off against each other. A brawl broke out and the Raw divas stood tall with Melina.

WINNER: Maryse at 2:15. Fine. Just getting divas on the TV for a few moments, but not enough time given to develop a compelling match between Melina and Maryse. "Super fast food" match. (3/4*)

3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Money in the Bank qualifying match

Announcers referenced Mickey Rourke and "The Wrestler" early on, so there's still a working agreement of some sort for WrestleMania. Kofi jumped around the ring early on, then took control going into break. Jericho was in control out of the break working on Kofi's back. Kofi then came back with a leaping clothesline and palm thrust to the chest. Kofi with a turnaround splash from the second rope for a two count. Kofi nailed a Russian legsweep, then marched around the ring before attempting the boom-boom leg drop. Jericho countered, though, and wanted the Walls of Jericho, but Kofi blocked. Jericho came right back with an enziguiri kick for a two count. Jericho missed with a Lionsault and Kofi nailed the boom-boom leg drop for a two count. Kofi started gyrating around before attempting the Buzzsaw kick, but Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Kofi teased an escape, then Ric Flair's music suddenly came on. Flair walked out on stage and Jericho released the Walls of Jericho. Jericho then walked back across the ring and Kofi nailed the Jamaican Buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. Afterward, Kofi walked on stage and celebrated with Ric Flair, who pointed to the WrestleMania banner and told Jericho he's not going.

WINNER: Kofi at 7:55 to qualify for MITB. Nice finish and a nice surprise from Ric Flair. Jericho losing sets him up to destroy a Legend on next week's show and finally get a WrestleMania match of some sort against a Legend of some sort. (**)

4 -- CHRISTIAN & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) & REY MYSTERIO vs. FINLAY & World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON

Christian and Miz started things off here. Finlay took a semi-hot tag and cleaned house, then Rey took a hot tag and smashed Morrison in the corner. He then went up top and nailed a huracanrana for a cover and two count when Miz broke up the pin. Rey wanted the 619 on Morrison, but Kane broke it up. Christian and Finlay then dumped Kane to the floor. Rey set up Mo with the 619 once again and he delivered it this time. Rey then snapped off a signature springboard huracanrana. Not quite the classic ECW Arena huracanrana against Psychosis, but it looked pretty good. Rey with the pin before an excited arena for the win.

WINNERS: Team Rey at 3:30. Really exciting finish after a brief match. ECW wrestlers (are Miz & Morrison on ECW?) put on a good showing with the limited time to hype ECW TV tomorrow night. (*1/2)

So...4 matches and a whole lot of talking going on as they try and build up storylines for the WM25 hype.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2009, 12:57 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 3-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30602.shtml)

1 -- World tag team champion THE MIZ (w/John Morrison) vs. WWE tag team champion PRIMO (w/Carlito and Bella Twins)

Primo was hot early on, but he could only score a one count following a round of kicks. Primo with a dropkick to the back, but Miz nailed a forearm smash as Primo was on the apron. Miz in control as Grisham sent us to break.

They returned from break with Miz still in control. Primo then fired off a top rope cross-body block for a two count. Primo airballed on an attempted dive and he crashed hard to the mat. One of the Bellas showed concern for Primo, then Miz walked over to Primo and punched Primo right in front of his lady. Miz sent Primo back into the ring to pick up another mid-ring attack. Battle went up top and Primo flipped over Miz into an electric chair slam.

Both men recovered, then Primo made another comeback. Morrison went the illegal immigrant route on commentary against Carlito, then Miz nailed a front-face slam on Carlito for another two count. They had an exciting roll-up exchange, then another close nearfall for Miz. Miz wanted a run-through-the-turnbuckle corner smash, but Primo moved and nailed the backstabber off the second ropes for the pin and the win. Afterward, Carlito and Primo got the girls while Morrison tried to check on Miz and get an explanation on how he lost.

WINNER: Primo in 11:00. Excellent singles match. Nice to see Primo in a featured match, as he clearly has tremendous upside. Nice use of the outside wrestlers to enhance the match on commentary and allow the two men in the ring to settle an issue. Just all-around good action. (**)

2 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. D.J. GABRIEL (w/Alicia Fox)

Gabriel just looks too jacked up. He landed a flying elbow smash early on, then whipped Kidd hard across the ring only to accept a drop toehold into the middle turnbuckle. Action moved to the floor where Kidd nailed a kick to the face. Kidd is heel, but Gabriel has no babyface qualities for the crowd to get behind. Gabriel countered a wheelbarrow into an overhead release German Suplex for a two count. Gabriel then scooped up Kidd by his trunks, but Kidd yanked Gabriel back-first across the top rope and nailed the springboard elbow smash for the pin and the win. Striker: Where does Gabriel go from here? Same place as Ricky Ortiz: turn heel or go back to Florida.

WINNER: Kidd in 3:00. Nice win for Kidd, who deserves the push ahead of Gabriel. It was like the turning point for Jack Swagger's career when he was given the victory over Ricky Ortiz when they were arguably at the same level. Kidd and Gabriel were arguably on the same level here, and WWE made the right choice in Kidd over Gabe. (*)

3 -- MITB QUALIFYING MATCH BATTLE ROYALE

Ricky Ortiz was chucked over the top rope by Khali about seven seconds in. So sad. Funaki was out via Kozlov. Khali then dumped out Kozlov. Suddenly, gang-tackle on Khali and everyone eliminated him. Hey, Goldust is in the match. Charlie Haas as Charlie Haas. Other random jobbers. Yang out via Haas and Dolph. Ha, Striker with a WCW reference on Yang. Haas out. Goldust out. Burchill out via Cryme Tyme. Suddenly, JTG eliminated Shad. Oh snap! Break.

Regal, Christian, Dreamer, R-Truth, and Chavo were left in the ring back from break. Regal then nailed a four-way Tower of Doom spot in the corner. They showed us a clip during the break of JTG eliminating Shad, then R-Truth eliminating JTG. Dreamer picked up Regal's dead weight and tried to eliminate him, but Regal held on and Dreamer was yanked to the floor by Regal.

R-Truth vs. Christian once they were down to the final four. TNA! Chavo then dumped out Truth, bringing it to Chavo, Christian, and Regal. Christian held on for dear life as Chavo tried to shove him out, then Regal smashed Christian. Regal screamed, then charged Christian and Christian dumped him out. Down to Christian and Chavo. Christian slid into the ring from the apron, then Chavo did an Eddie chest-shake that drew cheap heat. He executed the Three Amigos suplexes, but Chavo blocked a top rope frog splash. They battled on the apron and Christian teased an elimination to draw screams from the crowd, then he nailed the rebound kick to the face on Chavo to eliminate him and win the battle royale.

WINNER: Christian in 11:00. Fine battle royale. Quick pace and they trimmed the fat (Ricky O.) early on while mixing in some traditional early '90s Raw battle royale spots featuring the big man, Great Khali, playing the role of Mabel. Good victory for Christian to keep him strong. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2009, 12:58 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-12-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1004918.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Rhino defeated Sheik Abdul Bashir in 3:45. Tenay ran through the show lineup again. He said something about Sting's wrestler facing Angle's wrestler, so I'm not sure what the hell is going on. Don West arrived and joined Tenay on commentary. They bickered and Tenay accused West of being hungover.

"It smells like a brewery out here at the broadcast table," Tenay said. West said he noticed the same thing when he walked by ring announcer Dave Penzer. Funny. In the ring (as if that matters anymore), Rhino scored the clean pin on Bashir.

Bashir caught Rhino with a low blow after the match. He headed to ringside and retrieved a chair. Bashir struck Rhino with the chair and then placed his headdress over Rhino...

Powell's POV: Tenay made it clear that Angle's wrestler will face Sting's wrestler. I like the idea I thought I heard better. To make things more confusing, they are having a tag match where the teams get to pick additional partners. It's like theme week in TNA.

2. Matt Morgan and Beer Money (w/Jacqueline) defeated Abyss and Team 3D in an elimination match in 10:00. Team 3D brought the IWGP Tag Titles to the ring with them. Tenay tried to sell the storyline that this could be the last time Team 3D appears on Impact due to the Off The Wagon Challenge match at the pay-per-view. At 2:00, Jackie snuck in and low-blowed Devon, which led to a superkick from Storm and a pin.

After the break, Storm was eliminated from the match when the referee DQ'd him for spitting beer in Brother Ray's face. Moments later, Brother Ray hit the Bubba Bomb on Roode and pinned him. Seconds later, Morgan chokeslammed Ray and pinned him to eliminate him.

The match came down to Morgan vs. Abyss. Eventually, Abyss picked up the bag of tacks that Morgan had at ringside. Lauren the interview girl ran out and pleaded with Abyss not to use the tacks. When Abyss turned around, Morgan nailed him with a big boot to the face and scored the pin.

Afterward, Lauren ran in and stood in front of Abyss. Morgan backed her into a corner and then grabbed her by the throat to tease slamming her onto the tacks. Abyss recovered and attacked Morgan. Abyss accepted Morgan's challenge to a tack match at the pay-per-view...


Powell's POV: Please tell me they're not going with the predictable pretty woman turns on the babyface twist again. The Abyss and Lauren storyline is ridiculous, but I'll take that over another predictable heel turn. Either way, they're pushing it with the man-on-woman violence tonight.

3. Taylor Wilde (w/Roxxi, The Governor) pinned Madison Rayne (w/The Beautiful People, Kip James) in 2:00. Traci Brooks was the referee. The announcers mentioned that the balance of power could shift if Sting retained the TNA Title at the pay-per-view. Late in the match, Wilde tried to go for a pin, but Rayne held onto Brooks, who eventually shoved her down and counted the pin. After the match, the Beautiful People beat up the other women and left them lying...

Powell's POV: Why would the balance of power shift if Sting retained the TNA Title? Isn't he already the TNA Champion? Where's Vince McMahon to yell at Foley when he needs it? Yes, I'm kidding.

4. LAX and Lethal Consequences defeated Booker T and Scott Steiner and The Motor City Machine Guns in an eight-man tag match in 4:45. Tenay was flying solo again. He complained about the Guns teaming with Mafia members. Lethal woke up the crowd with some fast-paced offense. Later, Hernandez hit the Border Toss on Sabin and scored the pin...

Powell's POV: Let me get this straight, the Frontline just scored a big victory over the Main Event Mafia by pinning a Frontline member?

5. Eric Young (w/Sting) pinned Rocco of MEM Security (w/Kurt Angle) in 3:15. Late in the match, Angle gave the Evolution "thumbs down" sign, which led to Rocco missing a second rope splash. Young hit the Death Valley Driver and scored the clean pin.

After the match, Sting and Angle entered the ring. Angle and two Mafia security members beat up Sting until Mick Foley made the save. Foley beat up all three of them, but Scott Steiner ran out and attacked Foley from behind. Jeff Jarrett, who isn't on the pay-per-view, ran out with a chair and struck some of the heels with chairshots.

Jarrett wound up to hit Steiner and Nash, but Sting stepped in front of them. Tenay reminded viewers that Sting said he never had a problem Steiner or Nash. Jarrett took the mic and announced that he will be the special referee for Sting vs. Angle, and Foley will be the special ringside enforcer...

Powell's POV: I guess Angle is looking forward to the Triple H vs. Randy Orton match at WrestleMania 25. At least they have a reason for making Jarrett the center of attention this week. Foley playing the special enforcer role is already overplayed, but it stacks the deck against Angle heading into the pay-per-view. Of course, that would be more effective if Angle was the champion. Really, this just make me think Angle win the belt because he has so much working against him.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2009, 01:02 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-13-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1004930.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Edge defeated Kofi Kingston at 10:17.
Shore’s Slant: The champion starts the show? Wow. That being said, this match was a nightmare to cover as it was all over the place. Kudos to Edge and Kingston for having a match that Smackdown used to have every week. It was fun and fast and I wanted more. It’s nice to see Kingston got a chance to get back at Edge. Granted it took three weeks and it was not for the title, but hey, he got to respond!

2. John Morrison and The Miz defeated Primo and Carlito Colon, w/The Bella Twins, to retain the World Tag Team Championships at 5:57.
Shore’s Slant: That was all over the place. I could barely cover it. In fact, I got behind more than once. Good match that continues the feud and almost guarantees a unification match at Mania.

3. Chavo Guerrero and Shelton Benjamin defeated R-Truth and MVP at 6:01. .
Shore’s Slant: As quick paced as that match was, it seemed slow after the first two. Surprise loss for MVP, but it does advance the storyline and he didn’t look weak in the loss. And wasn’t that the same formula as the end of the tag title match? So far, this has been a really good Smackdown. But Matt Hardy is coming to the ring and from what I have read, the “really good” part gets destroyed next.

4. Maria and Melina defeated Michelle McCool and Maryse at 2:45.
Shore’s Slant: First bad match of the night and it wasn’t terrible. The Diva’s division looks so weak. I long for the days of Lita and Victoria and Trish. Maybe with Gail Kim coming back soon we will have an awakening. Let’s hope.

5. Finlay w/Hornswoggle defeated The Brian Kendrick w/Ezekiel Jackson in a Money in the Bank Qualifying Match at 3:14.
Shore’s Slant: There it was. The match was terrible for two reasons. First, it was boring. You can’t tell a story in three minutes, especially with guys who have two different styles. Second, and most important, WTF is Finlay doing in MITB over TBK? That’s terrible writing. But the writing for MITB was already bad. MITB this year is a throwaway match, and that’s upsetting. Thirty minutes left with one match. Taker must be doing the full entrance.

6. The Undertaker defeated Vladimir Kozlov at 14:22.
Shore’s Slant: OK match, not as good as the last meeting, but not a complete stinker. Maybe I’m just in a good mood. Overall, good show from Smackdown, especially considering that this was the second half of a double header. I have one problem, and I understand why it happened, but it’s still a problem. There was virtually no coverage of the Vickie/Edge angle. Yes we had the recap at the top of the show, and the video of Edge and Chavo that was probably recorded at Raw, but that was it. Now this was taped before Raw, so they didn’t want to give away the surprise, but it just seems odd that there was so little time devoted to it. More time was devoted to Hunter/Orton than Edge/Vickie. Just something that bothered me.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 15 2009, 10:29 am
Andrew 'Test' Martin found dead...

Sources: PWInsider.com via Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8738 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2687163&postcount=8738) and TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to latest entry) (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2648774.html):

Quote
- Former WWE Superstar Andrew "Test" Martin passed away last night at his home in Tampa, Florida at the age of 33, just four days away form his 34th birthday. We don't have many more details right now, but reports say he was found in his apartment. Tampa area authorities have declined to confirm it is Martin but word within the wrestling industry has been widespread.

Despite his earlier writings about the drug scene in the wrestling business, Martin ended up suspended under the WWE Wellness Policy and was released shortly afterwards. At the time, Martin claimed it was a mutual release that he asked the company for. Martin made a few appearances for TNA that year but there was a feeling that his huge physique was neon sign for the impending US Congress investigation into the business and also a feeling that his attitude didn't go over well with the TNA locker room, so he wasn't brought back. Test talked about retiring from the business but has made several appearances overseas since then, working a match in Japan last month. Martin was scheduled to leave this for a wrestling tour of Europe that would have made stops in several countries.

We will keep you updated with more details as they come in. Our deepest condolences go out to Martin's friends and family.
Also here's more: Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Posts #8739 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2687184&postcount=8739) and #8740 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2687452&postcount=8740) with external sources courtesy of PWTorch.com (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_30685.shtml) via Jim Ross' blog (http://www.jrsbarbq.com/blog/jr-remembers-andrew-test-martin-who-was-found-dead-friday-evening)...

Quote
Jim Ross, who was formerly WWE's VP of Talent Relations and hired Andrew "Test" Martin in the 1990s, said today that Martin was recovering from personal health issues prior to his death on Friday night.

Martin completed WWE's rehab treatment after starting in August 2008 and he was in constant contact with WWE to follow-up on whether he was remaining healthy. Friday was a scheduled check-in date for Martin, Ross said.

"Since being released from the facility after successfully completing the program, Andrew had been doing well in his 12 Step AA program and was in contact with WWE with regular phone calls," Ross said on jrsbarbq.com. "Ironically, Friday was the day for his regularly scheduled 'touching base' but when called his voice mail box was full."

Ross said he spoke to Martin extensively at last year's WrestleMania in Florida and he did not see any outward signs of personal problems. Martin, who died at age 33, told Ross that he didn't want to wrestle much longer and he was only taking dates on his terms.

"Andrew had always told me that he never wanted to wrestle past the age of 35 which was why he 'listened to the lectures," Ross said. "I honestly had never seen him happier."

Check back on my TOKYOPOP Blog (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog) for complete updates and will also post more here when news is available.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 16 2009, 01:05 pm
TNA Destination X PPV Results: 3-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).

1 -- BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE) vs. TAYLOR WILDE & ROXXI & GOVERNOR FAKE SARAH PALIN
WINNERS: Team Wilde in 6:00. Just a standard divas match to start things off. Fine and Madison got her comeuppance. (3/4*)

2 -- ERIC YOUNG vs. BRUTUS MAGNUS
WINNER: Brutus Magnus in 5:00. Match had its moments. Young was good, as usual. Kozlov...er...Brutus is a work in development. (*)

3 -- MATT MORGAN vs. ABYSS -- 10,000 thumbtack match
WINNER: Morgan in 9:00. Just a forgettable undercard gimmick match. Abyss wiggling his hands around was laughable. I'm sorry, it just was. I don't know why he continues to take crazy bumps because they don't mean anything, especially in the third match of the card. (1/2*)

4 -- Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed) vs. SOJO BOLT -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Kong in 4:00. Basic knockouts match. Not much to it. Continued a subpar, by-the-numbers, unmemorable undercard. (*)

5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. SCOTT STEINER
WINNER: Steiner via DQ in 2:00. Well, that was short and lame. The new Don West is solid, especially when he indirectly calls out TNA for ridiculous booking like advertising a match that barely happened and delivering a fat, out-of-shape Samoa Joe in a ridiculous look. Might as well have slapped Magnus's helmet on Joe and called him the Samoan Warrior. (n/a)

6 -- Legends champion BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. A.J. STYLES -- Legends Title match
WINNER: Styles in 10:00 to capture the Legends Title. Best match of the night, which isn't saying much. Booker appeared to be legit injured leading to the early finish. Good energy from Styles, who unfortunately had to settle for celebrating victory of a fake title. (**)

7 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM w/Miss Jackie) vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) -- TNA tag title match and 3D's careers on the line
WINNERS: Team 3D via count-out in 13:00; Roode & Storm retain the tag titles. Walk-through-the-motions tag team PPV match with a typical non-finish for a Beer Money match. West is such a convincing advocator for the heels that it's hard to root for the babyfaces, especially when Mike Tenay is defending them. Finish wasn't actually that frustrating because Tenay's boys didn't win the belts. (*1/2)

8 -- X Division champion ALEX SHELLEY vs. JAY LETHAL vs. CHRIS SABIN vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. SUICIDE -- ULTIMATE X match -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Suicide in 14:00 to capture the X Division Title. Fine match with a solid dose of athleticism to stand out on the PPV card. Too bad there were so many inconsequential moves that didn't have any bearing on the outcome of the match. Just limits the X Division as the "monkey-bar special" division where they get three minutes on TV and no time to develop legit feuds or storylines. (**)

9 -- TNA World champion STING vs. KURT ANGLE -- TNA World Title match -- Jeff Jarrett special ref and Mick Foley special enforcer
WINNER: Sting in 14:00 to retain the TNA World Title. Another mid-card-quality effort in the PPV main event. Just a basic match where Angle couldn't even get a main event-quality match out of Sting. Predictable ref bump leading to Foley accidentally knocking out Sting, which apparently will lead to them setting up their Lockdown match on TV. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2009, 06:24 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30732.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHAWN MICHAELS & THE UNDERTAKER vs. IC champion JBL & KOZLOV

Michaels started things off against Kozlov before staring down Taker. Michaels then turned around and jumped Kozlov before Taker tagged in and knocked Kozlov to the floor with a clothesline. Grab a break.

Back from break, Michaels was battling his former employer, JBL. He nailed a top rope elbow smash, then wanted Sweet Chin Music on JBL, but Kozlov distracted HBK to allow JBL to smash him in the face with a big boot. Heels went on the attack against Michaels while Taker slowly walked around the ring apron pacing for his hot tag. Taker finally got his hot tag at 8:00 and ran over JBL with a corner splash. Taker with signature moves that the crowd was uncharacteristically quiet for. Taker then teased a chokeslam on JBL, but Michaels blind-tagged himself in and smashed JBL with Sweet Chin Music. Michaels with the cover for the win.

Afterward, Taker tried to kick Michaels and Michaels went scurrying to the ringside area. Taker was upset, so HBK went running off like a soon-to-be-punished son trying to avoid his father's wrath. Taker's music hit, then he turned to look back to the crowd. Suddenly, Michaels showed up out of nowhere and smashed Taker with Sweet Chin Music on the stage. Michaels went nuts throwing his fists in the air and flailing his arms in celebration.

WINNERS: Michaels & Taker at 9:20. Strange, sudden ending to the match. Heavy focus on Taker vs. Michaels, as it should be. Still waiting for JBL to announce his major announcement.

2 -- Women's champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino Marella and Rosa Mendes) & JILLIAN HALL & LAYLA

Santino on commentary. Yes! Santino wasn't very complementary of her girlfriend's job hosting Santino's Casa on .com. Lawler said he had the pleasure of meeting the Santino fan club. All two of them. Melina tagged in, then action broke down ringside. Santino tried to interfere, but she took a low-blow from Mickie on the floor. In the confusion, Melina rolled up Beth from behind for the win. Rosa tried to attack the babyfaces post-match, but they went to the floor to celebrate victory.

WINNERS: Team Melina at 2:55. Santino was fine on commentary to enhance the match, which seemed like just a repeat of the women's matches we've seen on Raw TV for months. Two more weeks until the 25-diva battle royale. (1/2*)

3 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. CODY RHODES -- non-title steel cage match

Every time Orton or Cody tried to climb the cage to get to Hunter, he kicked them off the wall and teased them with the sledgehammer. Crowd suddenly began roaring as Ted started climbing the cage. He wasn't able to make it in, though, as Hunter hit him with the hammer through the cage wall. Hunter then grabbed his hammer and stalked Cody for a hammer shot to the face. Hunter made the cover and scored the win while Orton looked down in disdain.

WINNER: Triple H at 2:15. Just a way to put over SuperHunter as the super Alpha Male of all Alpha Males to ever be created in Super Alpha Male Land since he's Triple H and we're lucky to even be in his presence because he's so smart and strong and powerful and has amazing super powers. What happened to Randy Orton, the rising star mega-heel who doesn't back down from anyone? (n/a)

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Cole said Rey has challenge JBL for an IC Title match at WrestleMania. That's how they announce it? Mid-match in a TV squash against Dolph? Welcome to the wonderful world of the Intercontinental Title. Dolph was on the offensive early on while the announcers talked up Hunter placing a steel cage inside the building earlier tonight. What super-powers does Hunter not have? Rey suddenly nailed a seated sentaun before snapping off a huracanrana into 619. Rey then ran to the top rope and hurried into a top rope diving splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 2:13. Just a set-up for the random JBL vs. Rey IC Title match. the set-up for the WrestleMania card seems very "off-brand PPV" with random matches being added to the card. This line-up should have been finalized weeks ago. In-house note: really close shave over Triple H in the Place Your Bets challenge for shortest match victory, assuming there isn't a two-second squash coming up. (1/2*)

5 -- MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) & KANE & U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. KOFI KINGSTON & C.M. PUNK & MVP

Hornswoggle, Finlay, and Christian were on commentary for the match. All this potential star power in the ring and they don't hype it pre-match or even allow for a pre-match intro? I suppose they needed to save time to stay with Triple H's superhero moment for all of eternity. All six men had a stand-off before they cut to a break.

Christian said he was away from WWE for a little bit, but he's returning re-focused and ready for a run as a WWE champion after winning Money in the Bank. Christian said he came back for a title run and it's not a matter of when. Horny was trying to blow him off, so Christian shot back that he'll get his cookie later. Kofi made a hot tag to C.M. Punk, who lost the IC Title belt last week and he's so distraught about it. Insert Sarcasm there. Punk cleaned house, then Kofi took Kane to the floor. Chaos ensued, then Punk nailed Shelton with the Go 2 Sleep for the pin and the win as Christian vowed to win MITB, then cash it in, and win a WWE Title. MVP, Kofi, and Punk stood tall center ring and stared up at the briefcase hanging above the ring.

WINNERS: Team Punk at 8:36. Fine six-man tag match. Christian was a little shaky on commentary, but he had his moments. Definitely wasn't as bad as babyface TNA champion where he was Captain NoCharisma. There were just too many people at the table. Match was fine, but forgettable with no hype or pre-match set-up. (*1/4)

6 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. JOHN CENA -- non-title match -- Vickie Guerrero special ref

Cole reminded viewers of the match stipulation that if Cena touches Vickie, he loses his World Title match at WrestleMania. Cena hit a fisherman suplex in the first minute, then made a cover, but Vickie just stood there twiddling her thumbs without making a cover. Cena argued with Vickie, then Edge snuck in behind and knocked down Cena. Crowd is red-hot for this. Cena fought back against Edge, who then chucked him over the top rope clean to the floor. Edge followed up and chucked Cena into the announce table and ring steps before re-entering the ring to get a round of boos. Vickie didn't apply a ten count here.

Edge tossed Cena back into the ring and missed with a spear that set up Cena's big comeback. Cena wanted to drop the Shuffle on Edge, but Vickie jumped on Edge to cover him up. Cena couldn't strike, so he waited for Vickie to get up, then he dropped the five knuckle on Edge. Vickie pulled Edge out of harm's way on an FU, then he slapped on the STFU, but Vickie put a headlock on Cena. Comical.

Big Show suddenly showed up and helped Edge double-team Cena. They hung Cena up in the ropes ala Andre the Giant and Edge landed a spear on a defenseless Cena. Vickie slapped Cena, then Show landed big right hand blows to Cena. Match still going on. Show then landed his big right hand smashes on Cena that KO'ed Cena while he was still hung up in the ropes. Show walked away, then Edge suddenly speared Show in center ring after he used Show to inflict damage. Vickie was non-reactional. Edge then stood tall as the show faded to black.

WINNER: No Decision at 6:48 when the show ended. To be continued with the three-way drama. Crowd heat was amazing for this, which helped sell the angle, but the angle is so far out there to begin with that WWE needs to reel this one in with two weeks left until Mania. The issue was cleared up this week with more focus on who Vickie believes, which could play a factor in which side she chooses at WrestleMania. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2009, 01:38 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 3-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30770.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion SHELTON BENJAMIN & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. MVP & CHRISTIAN

Shelton vs. MVP for the U.S. Title is scheduled for this Friday on Smackdown. Big 500 episode celebration. Random commercial break after a nearfall. Well, just seemed so random because we're used to the babyface knocking the heel to the floor and hitting a spot, then being in control to set up the heel in control out of the break.

They returned with Shelton and Henry working over Mr. Moveset MVP. Matt Striker earned his paycheck talking about all four men scouting each other in preparation for the Money in the Bank match. Christian finally entered the match after MVP fought off Shelton and made the hot tag. Shelton and Christian battled, Striker dropped a Johnny Cash reference, the action broke down, then Henry and MVP battled on the floor. In the confusion, Shelton nailed Christian with paydirt for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Shelton & Henry in 8:00. Christian loses yet another match on ECW. Good set-up for MITB and Shelton vs. MVP on Smackdown this Friday, though. (*1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JAMIE NOBLE

"Top Gun" references galore before the opening bell. Bourne started off on the offensive as Striker described the gruesome injury Bourne suffered with a near-snapping of his ankle five months ago. Cut to a backstage shot of Tyson Kidd and Natalya watching Bourne's return on a backstage monitor. There's your future star feud. Striker said Bourne is planning on busting out some new moves that he developed while injured. Grisham said he talked to Noble before the match and Noble isn't concerned about losing to Bourne in his return. Bourne busted out traditional aerial offense, then set up Noble for the Shooting Star Press. He connected square and made the cover for the win. Afterward, they replayed the move several times with slow-mo replays and let Bourne get his shine in his return.

WINNER: Bourne in 3:00. Very nice return for Bourne. As I expected a few weeks ago when Kidd debuted, they're setting up Bourne vs. Kidd in what should be an excellent feud. (*)

3 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea Burchill)

Hornswoggle jumped on the ECW broadcast table and demanded headsets to call the action in the ring. Finlay tried to restore order after dumping Burchill to the floor, but Burchill used the distraction to ram Finlay into the ring apron. Grisham suggested that Hornswoggle is more of a detriment than a help for pops. Grisham with a Tom & Jerry reference, which popped Tommy Dreamer's name into my head. Where is Tommy and his Quest? Burchill had his hair pulled back like a Sumo wrestler. Apparently this was his solution to stand out as not a generic mid-card heel. Finlay took Burchill's offense, then he finished off the Englishman with the Celtic Cross on St. Patrick's Day for the pin and the win. Finlay and Hornswoggle then celebrated.

WINNER: Finlay in 3:00. Standard match kept short to avoid long stretches of Burchill on the offensive since WWE doesn't put much stock in his character right now. Just a fun match for the kids on St. Patrick's Day. There's the ECW brand - home of The Zombie - in a sentence. (*)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 21 2009, 11:48 am
TNA Impact! Results: 3-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30824.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. NO LIMIT (Yujiro & Nito)

The Gunns beat Nito to win the light-weight version of the IWGP Tag Team Titles, and this is a non-title rematch. Tenay said the main event tag match later is like an all-star game. Tenay hyped that Foley has never wrestled on Impact and it'll be Jarrett's first match on Impact in over two years. I rest my case.

WINNERS: No Limit in 4:00.

STAR RATING: * -- A bunch of cool spots and high-paced action. It's one of those matches where four wrestlers are told specifically to go out there and burn the house down in four minutes and they do as they're told, then they're criticized in the aggregate for being all about highspots and not telling a proper story in the ring.

2 -- AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED vs. ODB & TAYLOR WILDE

Tenay said he can't get his mind off of the Impact main event tag match. He asked West if it seemed to him that Sting was being a spokesperson for Foley. West said Sting is going to have to put up or shut up tonight. No signs of tension between Tenay and West this week. I'm not usually in favor of abandoning a storyline mid-stream, but if they pretend that tension never occurred, I'm fine with it. Just pretend they talked it out behind the scenes. Taylor hot-tagged in at 2:00 against Kong and hit two dropkicks. Kong didn't go down. Kong did go down after a top rope dropkick. Saeed interfered with the save, but Taylor went after her. They fought at ringside. Kong pressed Taylor, but Taylor slipped out and cradled Kong for the win.

WINNERS: Wilde & ODB in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4*

-Afterward, Kong attacked Taylor, then gave ODB an Implant Buster. ODB's date, Cody Deiter, jumped into the ring and put up his dukes. Kong backed out of the ring. West said Kong was smart to walk away because if she didn't, there could be legal issues.

3 -- SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. SAMOA JOE

Joe went after Bashir immediately and aggressively. The ref scolded Joe. Joe punched the ref and then threw Bashir into the announce table. He then put him in a cobra clutch and dragged him to the back.

WINNER: No contest.

4 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. THE GOVERNOR

West and Tenay began arguing. Shoot. Sky interfered to help give Rayne the advantage early. A minute later The Gov surprised Rayne with a leverage pin. West accused the ref of a fast count. Tenay said, "Aw, come on!"

WINNER: The Governor in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4*

-Afterward, Sky and Love attacked The Gov. They pulled out a pair of scissors and handed them to Rayne. She had to cut her hair. She began snipping away.

5 -- KURT ANGLE & STING vs. MICK FOLEY & JEFF JARRETT

Angle and Jarrett began the match. West said he can't believe this match is airing for free. Tenay said during the break Cornette informed him that next week on Impact there will be a 20 man six-sides-of-steel gauntlet to determine the two captains for Lethal Lockdown on Apr. 19 on PPV. Jarrett ducked an Angle clothesline and threw a dropkick. Jarrett twisted Angle's arm and played to the crowd. The crowd chanted for Foley and Jarrett tagged in Foley at 2:00. Foley moved in toward Angle, grabbed him, and outwrestled him to the mat. Angle crawled to the bottom rope. Foley yelled "Bang! Bang!" Tenay asked if anyone ever thought they'd see Foley out mat-wrestle Angle. Foley clotheslined Angle over the top rope to the floor. When he went after Angle on the floor, Angle's security members, Sal and Rocco, went after Foley. Foley banged their heads together. Angle hit Foley from behind with a chair, then Angle back suplex Foley onto the mats at ringside. Team 3D came out and beat up Sal and Rocco. West said Foley was out. Jarrett called for help.

Angle beat on Foley in the ring, kicking at his leg. He whipped him toward the ropes, but Foley just collapsed. Sting asked for a tag. Angle teased it, but then pulled his hand away. Angle took Foley down with a hard clothesline. Sting told Angle to get the pin if he could and leave it there. Angle stomped Foley between his legs. Sting walked into the ring and got in Angle's face. "That's enough, Kurt," he said. West said there's no chance of them getting onto the same page. Angle knocked Sting off the ring apron. Jarrett got into the ring and gave Angle a Pedigree and enzuigiri. Tenay noted that Jarrett's not legal. Jarrett went for The Stroke, but Angle blocked it and went for an ankelock. Jarrett powered out and lunged at Angle, but Angle moved and Jarrett took down the ref. Angle ran to ringside and grabbed a chair. Jarrett kicked Angle in the gut to block the chairshot, then brought his guitar into the ring. Jarrett reared back, but Sting yanked it away. Foley stood up with a chair in hand. Angle bailed out of the ring. Foey then bashed Sting with the chair and made the cover. A second ref came out and counted the pin. West said that was no accident when Foley swung the chair and hit Sting. Tenay asked, "What have we just seen here?"

WINNERS: Foley & Jarrett in 11:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4 -- Foley's still really crippled looking at he moves around the ring. Sting didn't tag in. So it was mostly Angle with rudimentary solid early work against Jarrett and then beating down Foley before the chaos broke out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 22 2009, 03:36 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30853.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRIPLE H vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV

Triple H ducked a charging Kozlov, who flew over the top rope to the floor. Kozlov re-entered the ring and charged again with a clothesline attempt. Triple H ducked and then knocked Kozlov to the floor. They cut to a break a 1:00.

Triple H had Kozlov in a figure-four as they returned to the break. Kozlov reached the bottom rope to force a break at 4:00. Kozlov gave Triple H a battering ram and a belly-to-belly suplex while working off a limp from the figure-four. He battered Triple H in the corner. Triple H quickly powered out of a bearhug and gave hi a face buster and two clotheslines in the corner. He then scored a two count after a neckbreaker. He followed with a spinebuster after a brief attempt at a comeback by Kozlov. He followed with a Pedigree for the win.

WINNER: Triple H in 7:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- Fine for what it was, but Kozlov is pretty much done as a potential top heel since this win wasn't treated as a particularly big deal and it came relatively easily.

2 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. MVP -- U.S. Title match

This title gets defined down as virtually meaningless when there's a title match that appears - poof! - out of nowhere like this. If it's not worthy hyping at least 15 minutes head of time, much less a week or two ahead of time, the average viewer is going to think it's no big deal no matter how much the announcers hard-sell it once it starts. Pro wrestling bookers have lost their way more than ever regarding the art of building anticipation and milking it. They do it for PPVs, but when the same thing being offered on PPV is being given away with no hype on TV, in a generic sense the idea of a main eventer vs. main eventer match is watered down and diminished so that selling a PPV becomes an unnecessary steep uphill battle. Shelton took control early and settled into an abdominal stretch at 1:00.

MVP made a comeback and hit a powerslam. He scored a near fall after a boot to the face. The crowd chanted "MVP, MVP." Shelton countered a suplex with a neckbreaker in a smooth move leading to a two count at 4:00. Tazz put over Shelton as a "quintessential blue chip athlete." MVP scored a near fall with a backslide and then another near fall with a bridge. Shelton came back with a sudden poweslam for a near fall. MVP then hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: MVP in 5:00 to win the U.S. Title.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Good action, but really short for a U.S. Title match. Again, this would have meant so much more with a little hype last week and some promos to set it up. It's just disheartening to see how short-term planning and an over-reliance on just tossing pushed wrestlers against one another indiscriminately has become a substitute for sound booking.

3 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. KANE

Kane overpowered Michaels early. Tazz said it appeared they might have to stop the match after a Kane punch may have "busted Shawn's jaw." Kane overpowered Michaels for the opening minutes. Michaels did the flip bump into the corner on a whip and then tumbled to the floor at 2:00. They cut to another break.

Kane remained in control after the break. This is one of those matches where two big names are matched up, and the one doing the job gets the benefit of 90 percent of the offense to "make up for having to do the job." Vince McMahon hates pronouns, and Ross took it to an extreme by saying Michaels was trying to "get Kane off of Kane's feet." Michaels kicked out of a near fall after a basement dropkick by Kane at 7:00. Michaels made a comeback at 9:00 with some punches and a neckbreaker. After a collision, Michaels leaped up and gave Kane an inverted atomic drop and a clothesline. When he went for a top rope elbow, Kane turned sideways and Michaels landed on his knee. Kane climbed to the top rope and leaped off with a clothesline. Kane waited for Michaels to get up and moved in for a chokeslam, but Michaels surprised him with a superkick for the win. Ross sold the Michaels win as an indication that Undertaker's streak "is dog-gone sure in jeopardy."

WINNER: Michaels in 11:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Pretty one-sided most of the way and Kane is always a bit lumbering, but a solid match with a well executed transition into Michaels's comeback and victory.

4 -- JEFF HARDY vs. BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel Jackson)

Hardy knocked Jackson out of the ring at the start of the match and then dove over the top rope onto Kendrick a ringside in the opening minute. Jackson grabbed Hardy from behind and threw him into the security wall. When Jackson checked on Kendrick, Hardy bashed him from behind with a chair repeatedly. He chased Kendrick into the ring with a chair, but Kendrick kicked the chair out of his hands and knocked him to the mat. He mounted him and punched away at his head. Hardy came back and aggressively rammed Kendrick's head into a standing chair several times at 2:00. He DDT'd Kendrick on a chair and finished him with a Swanton Bomb.

WINNER: Hardy in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- The goal was to get across the excitement and energy and high-impact nature of an extreme rules match. So in that respect it worked. It was pretty much a squash of Kendrick and had too many chairshots as six to the back of Jackson was excessive and diminished the perceived impact of one.

5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. JBL

Ross said that Monday on Raw, Rey Mysterio challenged JBL for the IC Title at WrestleMania, and JBL has accepted the challenge. Taker jump-started the match with an early flurry of offense. Ross said Taker's streak is like winning 16 Super Bowls in a row, a feat that he says will never be repeated. At 2:00 they cut to a break.

Taker missed a kick at ringside and JBL took over. JBL worked over Taker's leg in the ring. Taker powered out of a figure-four leglock, but JBL managed to retain control of the match at 10:00. At 11:00 Taker made a comeback with snake eyes, a big boot, and a legdrop for a near fall. JBL came back seconds later with a Clothesline from Hell out of nowhere for a near fall. Tazz said it's rare anyone kicks out of that move. Taker then surprised JBL with his Devil's Gate submission. After about 10-15 seconds, JBL tapped out.

WINNER: Undertaker in 12:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Good match. Best of the show so far.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 23 2009, 07:21 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 3-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30861.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- JERRY LYNN vs. DELIRIOUS

The opening camera shot made the ring look very small and had too much of a "WSX new-school feel" that made this seem like bit wrestling entertainment rather than a serious product. The ROH wrestling product sold itself and now ROH seems to be trying to sell itself with fancy camera shots and a generic sports announcer rather than the in-ring product. Granted, ROH's production value was terrible two years ago, but this feels a bit over-compensating. Mike was way over-the-top on a false finish, making Michael Cole sound like Jim Ross. Mike with some random interjections like in a video game. At least he didn't bust out "vintage Jerry Lynn." Lynn finished off Delirious with the Cradle Piledriver for the win.

WINNER: Lynn in 6:00. Hard to focus on the match trying to soak in the production value, adjust to the moving camerashots, and not being distracted by Hogewood. Here's the deal with Mike Hogewood: he's like a national TV broadcaster calling a baseball game on FOX with very little knowledge of the intricate details of the team he's calling. Or, in the case of FOX Sports calling college football's BCS games, they have knowledge of one or two main elements, but couldn't list the starting line-up of each team. His role is simply to lend a "professional voice" to ROH and let Prazak fill in the details. ROH has to walk a fine line between increased production value, but not over-compensating to take away from the wrestling product. (*1/4)

2 -- KENNY KING vs. SAMI CALLIHAN

Mike said King is cocky and Sami is intense. It's like he's reading a generic horoscope that could apply to anyone. King looks legit in the ring, but Callihan looks like a generic independent wrestler who grew some sideburns and hair, slapped on a singlet, and decided he would stand out. Sami was babyface (I think?), but vocal portion of the crowd was in King's favor. Hogewood wouldn't let go of King's smile. Everything revolved around that smile. King avoided a corner splash and nailed the Coronation in center ring for the win. He's cocky, arrogant, and a winner, Hogewood let us know. How about that smile? Hogewood has us covered post-match.

WINNER: King in 6:00. Fine match. King stood out while Sami won't be remembered, unfortunately. Hogewood, oh Hogewood. (*1/2)

3 -- BRENT ALBRIGHT vs. RHETT TITUS

Match commentary pattern is developing where Prazak will give the name of a move, then Hogewood will repeat the name of the move in a re-structured sentence. Albright knocked Titus to the floor at 3:00, then Albright landed a plancha.Titus took control by smacking Albright on the ring apron, then Hogewood became very indignant at Titus's strutting. Albright made a comeback at 6:00 with an exploder suplex, but Titus nailed an elevated dropkick for a nearfall. Albright came back with a German suplex, then he slapped on the crowbar submission for the victory.

WINNER: Albright in 7:00. Good showcase match of some athleticism from Titus and solid mat work from Albright. Good step-up from the opening matches. (**1/4)

4 -- TYLER BLACK vs. JIMMY JACOBS

Black and Jacobs had a shoving match to start the match with the crowd firmly behind Black, who knocked Jacobs to the floor. Jacobs then retrieved two chairs and chucked them into the ring. Black turned around to move them out of the ring, allowing Jacobs to sneak up behind Black and gain the advantage. Two things I've noticed about the sound: they moved beyond the "random fan conservations near a house mic" that are utterly annoying on DVD releases, but the overall crowd isn't mic'ed as well. The audience seems like they're distant from the action rather than really into the matches.

At 10:00, Black made a comeback and hip-tossed Jacobs across the ring. Black then came off the top rope with a springboard lariat for a two count. He followed with a running shooting star press for a two count as Jacobs clutched his arm in pain. Not much chemistry between Hogewood and Prazak. Sounds like Prazak is trying to adjust to not calling with Lenny Leonard, unsure how to play off Hog. Black went for his finisher, but Jacobs countered into the End Times submission. Black nearly faded out, but he surprised Jacobs with a bridge pin in center ring for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Black in 14:00. Good match. Didn't seem like an "epic first-ever main event on national TV," though. Part of it was the lack of focus on crowd reactions and the poor mic'ing of the audience that is vital to the success of TV wrestling. Hogewood seemed to improve from the opening match to the main event, but that's not saying a lot. The chemistry is forced between the announcers, but hopefully that will develop with time. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 25 2009, 11:35 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30905.shtml)

1 -- JEFF HARDY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- Extreme Rules match
WINNER: Jeff Hardy at 3:02. Pick up the Smackdown build-up with Jeff snapping into Extreme Rules mode in anticipation of facing Matt at WrestleMania. Effective. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion MVP & C.M. PUNK & CHRISTIAN & KOFI KINGSTON vs. KANE & SHELTON BENJAMIN & MARK HENRY & FINLAY
WINNER: Team Christian at 7:11. Strong finish. Exciting action to give a taste of the Money in the Bank match. WWE is turning on the jets tonight to sell WrestleMania. There's definitely a sense of urgency to the show tonight. (*1/2)

3 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. BIG SHOW -- non-title match
WINNER: No Contest at 3:40. More drama between the lover and husband. At least the issue is clear after being a complete mess two weeks ago, but it's still so silly. John Cena's role in this has been the jerk babyface, which isn't exactly an honorable position if he's supposed to be a role model for the kids. Babyfaces defend women, not verbally attack, belittle, and humiliate them. But, apparently in 2009 where morals and ethics are constantly being re-written to the detriment of society, this is what we end up with: Cena tormenting women, Samoa Joe threatening to kill another man, Triple H breaking & entering and getting away with it, and A.J. Styles a thief and robber. Thanks, pro wrestling. (*1/4)

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. WILLIAM REGAL (w/Layla and IC champion JBL)
WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 2:57. Nice change-of-pace finish of Rey out-smarting Regal to secure victory and show he can hang with a tough wrestler to show he can hang with JBL at WrestleMania. (*)

5 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Beth Phoenix and Rosa Mends) vs. MICKIE JAMES
WINNER: Mickie James at 2:20. Dang, that would have been fun with Santino in the divas battle royale. Oh well. Just a typical make-Santino-the-fool match. (n/a)

6 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE, JR. -- handicap match
WINNER: No Match. Very intense angle and exactly what WWE needed to get heat back on Randy Orton as a vicious, unethical heel. Violence against women isn't acceptable, but it's typical McMahon fare of proving they will do anything for the business. Orton's stalking became very graphic to the point where it looked like he was going to do unmentionable and unairable things to Stephanie. Perhaps WWE's idea of PG TV is different than mine, but that pushed the limits of decent TV to go-away TV despite bringing Orton back to a very vicious heel level.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 25 2009, 02:27 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 3-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report. (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30935.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results...BTW there were only 2 matches, the last part of the show being the V.I.P. Lounge covering the MITB participants.

1 -- CARLITO (w/Primo Colon and Brie Bella) vs. JOHN MORRISON (w/The Miz and Nikki Bella)

Carlito took Morrison up top for a superplex early on, but Morrison nailed an enziguiri kick to take Carlito to the floor. Let's grab a break...already?

They finally returned from break with Carlito back-dropping Morrison to the mat before firing off a round of left arm lariats. Striker very subdued on commentary today. Carlito was in control, then Miz hopped on the ring apron to run interference with his lumberjack-quality flannel shirt. Subtle plug. M&M&B decided to high-tail it, but Teddy Long suddenly stepped out and said this match isn't ending like that. He don't play like that, playa. Long said he had it approved for WrestleMania 25 that the unified tag title match will be in a lumberjack match. Striker said that's a bonus AIG would be proud of. Suddenly, the lumberjacks stepped out to back up Miz & Morrison. A mass of mid-carders aligned around the ring. Suddenly, Carlito grabbed a hold and brought Morrison back into the ring. Morrison was tossed back into the ring, then Carlito surprised Morrison from behind with the backstabber for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Carlito in 10:00. Chance to get the jacks on TV for WrestleMania. The tag title situation continues to be one of the more intriguing aspects of the WrestleMania build-up to give ECW something - anything - to hang its hat on. (*)

2 -- ECW champion JACK SWAGGER & TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. EVAN BOURNE & TOMMY DREAMER

This should be pretty tight. Match started with Bourne vs. Kidd. There we go. Kidd backed away from Bourne to escape a leglock, then he landed a turnaround strike kick. Bourne avoided a leap frog and snapped off a dropkick that sent Kidd to the floor. Bourne teased a flying move, but Kidd hid behind Natalya, then sucker-punched Bourne. Nice heel move. Kidd tossed Bourne back into the ring, then Dreamer tagged in. He put Kidd in the Tree of Woe, but Swagger ran interference. Dreamer cleared Swagger from the apron, though, then nailed the Joey Lawrence "Woe" dropkick. Ah, Striker always good for an early '90s TV reference. Off to break with Dreamer and Bourne in control.

Back from break, Swagger was taking it to Dreamer, who was suddenly tied up in the ropes by Kidd to set up Swagger with a kick to the face. Nice heel tag combo. Crowd chanted, "Tommy, Tommy" as the heels tagged in and out to work over Dreamer. Announcers let us know Swagger is running the Chuck Norris Facts gimmick to show how impressive he is. Personal fave is Norris's tears cure cancer, but too bad he never cries. Heels continued their attack on Dreamer, who avoided a corner smash and nailed a neckbreaker. Dreamer crawled across the desert to Bourne, who accepted the hot tag as Kidd tagged in. Wham, here we go. Bourne snapped off a huracanrana, then nailed a back kick on Kidd and enziguiri on Swagger. Bourne went up top, knocked Kidd off, then came off the top with the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win. Post-match: Bourne celebrated with Dreamer and a hot crowd as they replayed Bourne's SSP several times.

WINNERS: Bourne & Dreamer at 10:00. Bourne brings so much excitement to the ring that it's very exciting to watch him. He's got that "it" factor and then some, while the first match-up of Bourne vs. Kidd should set up a lengthy program on ECW depending on how the Draft goes next month. WWE provided a glimpse into the future with the young guns of Swagger, Kidd, and Bourne in the same match. Book that in a three-way title match at WrestleMania with ten minutes of PPV time and they have their official show-stealer. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 27 2009, 03:02 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_30983.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SUICIDE vs. KIYOSHI (w/No Limit) -- X Division Title match

Did Kiyoshi do more to earn a title shot than Foley? No explanation was offered how they come up with him as the no. 1 contender. (I suppose you could say Great Muta was an emerging star 20 years ago, just like Cactus Jack was 18 years ago.) It cheapens all other matches that are to determine who a top contender is if they appear to be arbitrarily given out. Why not make it non-title? Is anyone really going to tune out if Kiyoshi is pushed as needing to win this non-title match to earn a future title match? As soon as the bell rang, Tenay and West instantly began talking about Jarrett and Angle. Tenay asked West about Jenna from Survivor, too, as Kiyoshi and Suicide were doing their thing in the ring as a backdrop. Eventually West talked about No Limit's big win over the Motor City Machine Guns last week. Tenay said as a result of that win, No Limit is in line for another shot at the New Japan Wrestling Junior Tag Team Titles. Suicide won with the Suicide Solution.

WINNER: Suicide in 4:00.

STAR RATING: * -- There were some nice moves, but apparently none mattered as West and Tenay talked about anything but the moves in the ring. This was the definition for Booking 101 class of how to diminish a title into meaning nothing.

2 -- AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED (w/Rhaka Khan) vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (w/Madison Rayne)

West said Sting won't fall for that false Foley apology ploy. Who are we rooting for in this feud? Doesn't matter. What matters is Sting, Foley, Angle, and Jarrett, the focus of the commentary. Tenay said Borash has more late-breaking news of the controversial celebrity involvement in the Lockdown match. Love finished Saeed with the Lights Out finisher.

WINNERS: The Beautiful People in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2*

3 -- TEAM CAPTAIN GAUNTLET CAGE MATCH

Abyss entered first, then A.J. Styles. Tenay got sassy with West for the third time in the show. Abyss controlled most of the opening two minutes. Then Alex Shelley joined third. Shelley sprayed water in the eyes of Abyss and then kicked him as he headlocked Styles. He charged with an elbow into the corner on Abyss, then kicked him twice more. Abyss caught a charging Shelley and pressed and dropped him to slow his attack. Styles then dove off the ropes with a forearm at Abyss. Black Machismo came out fourth as Tenay and West argued. They cut to a break.

Back from the break, Matt Morgan ran to the ring. During the break, Chris Sabin joined the match. Styles staggered Morgan with a Pele Kick. Abyss then gave him a Black Hole Slam for the pin. That was a bit of a surprise. Homicide and Scott Steiner joined the match next. Then they cut to a break.

They showed that Homicide was eliminated during the break by Chris Sabin. Consequences Creed came out next and worked with Lethal. Lethal flipped onto both Gunns for a near fall at 18:00. Rhino entered next and went after Steiner. West and Tenay questioned that strategy, rather than going after Abyss or Styles who had been worn down longer. Next out was Jeff Jarrett. Angle attacked him from behind. West said Angle is a man of his word. Angle bashed Jarrett over the shoulder with a chair, then walked away with a grin. Tenay said Jarrett had been severely injured. Nice to see one chairshot being sold as a big deal. It looked like a big deal, so it's nice they're selling it as such. As medics tended to Jarrett, Nido from No Limit joined the match. He hit Creed with a top rope dropkick. Lethal pinned Shelley with the Lethal Combination finisher at 26:00.

When Angle's music played, he came out but rather than enter the match, he first took another shot at Jarrett at ringside. Then he entered the ring and immediately made Creed tapout to the anklelock. Tenay said director of security Hack Myers told him they're trying to stabilize Jarrett's shoulder. Angle then eliminated Sabin and then Lethal.

Angle eliminated Shane Sewell. Not sure when he entered. Next out was Sheik Abdul Bashir. Tenay said obviously someone cut Bashir down last week after Samoa Joe hung him upside down. West pushed Lockdown as the best PPV of the year because of the all-cage format and unpredictability of it all. Booker T entered next. He gave Styles a Bookend to get a quick pin on Styles at 34:00. Tenay said he was picking the bones since Styles had been in so long already. Booker trash-talked him afterward. Rhino surprised Booker with a Gore for the pin seconds later.

It was down to Bashir, Angle, Steiner, Rhino, and Abyss at this point. Yujiro entered next. Angle gave an Angle Slam to Bashir for the win after pretending to be his friend first. Next out was Eric Young. Steiner and Angle double slammed and double covered Abyss to eliminate him. Rhino pinned Yujiro after a Gore, but Angle surprised Rhino with an Angle Slam for the pin. That left Angle and Steiner alone. Angle laid down and let Steiner cover him, but at the two count, Angle kicked out. Steiner and Angle laughed. Steiner laid down and let Angle cover him, but Steiner kicked out at two. Hernandez was out next. He managed to hold his own and set up a Border Toss on Steiner. Angle broke it up and then gave him an Angle Slam for the pin at 41:00. Steiner's face was bleeding.

Jarrett walked out to rejoin the match. His shoulder was taped. He went after Steiner and Angle. Soon Angle and Steiner were able to work over Jarrett. Jarrett surprised Angle with a schoolboy for a near fall a minute later. He gave Steiner his Stroke finisher for the pin. Angle then went for an Angle Slam, but Jarrett avoided it and hit two clotheslines and set up a Pedigree. Angle flipped out of that and went into an Anklelock. Jarrett kicked out of it, then hit an enzuigiri. He followed up with the Stroke. Steiner stopped the ref from hitting the mat a third time. West said that was fair because Jarrett shouldn't have been in there anyway. Angle then gave Jarrett the Angle Slam for the pin.

As Angle celebrated, Samoa Joe walked out as the final entrant. West said that was the 21st person. Tenay said Joe's the 20th. Joe put a sleeper on Angle. Angle escaped and went for an Anklelock. Joe escaped, but Angle came back with an Angle slam. Angle celebrated. Joe leaping roundkicked him in the face, then set up a Muscle Buster for the pin.

WINNER: Joe in 45:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Lots of good action and intricately booked for a TV match of this type. It sure established who the top guys were and who are there to flip around and bump around until their time comes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 28 2009, 11:25 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31008.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Christian & Shelton Benjamin & Kane & Finlay (w/Hornswoggle) beat U.S. champion MVP & Mark Henry & Kofi Kingston & Mark Henry (w/Tony Atlas) in 10:00. A mix of heels and faces in this version of the eight-man tag. As a result, there was some dissension in the ranks leading to commercial. After a break, MVP and Shelton picked up their feud and Jim Ross announced a U.S. Title re-match on next week's Smackdown. It came down to Kane and Punk and they battled until Kane caught Punk in mid-air with a chokeslam for the pin and the win with no one running interference to save Punk. Poor guy has been on a major league slide the past two months, including an IC Title loss. (*1/2)

(2) Big Show beat Jesse & Festus in 2:00. J&F were already in the ring out of the break, so you knew they were losing. Bell rang and Show ripped off a chop on Festus. WWE has apparently given up on the big man/small man combo, as Festus's entire drawing power as a big man was eliminated up against Show. Festus took a big right hand, then Show gave Jesse a chokeslam and a straight right hand for the KO and the win. Basic enhancement match to get over Show as a threat to the World Title at WrestleMania 25. (1/2*)

(3) Rey Mysterio beat Chavo Guerrero in 6:00. The WCW special opened with Rey pulling out his trademark aerial offense. Ross and Tazz talked about Rey vs. JBL for the IC Title at WrestleMania while Ross presented Rey as the babyface going into Houston. Some really good action in the first five minutes as the men exchanged control. Chavo tried an awkward frog splash, but Rey moved and set up Chavo for the 619. Rey then hit a top rope dive for the pin and the win. Strong match-up with good action. (**) Post-match: JBL suddenly stepped into the ring and smashed Rey with a big boot to the face. After making his point, JBL simply turned and left the ring. Ouch.

(4) Matt Hardy beat R-Truth in 3:00. Duke vs. Carolina started with the heel Hardy in control working over Truth. Ross talked about Jeff and Matt's father having to sit at home watching his two sons tear each other apart in Extreme Rules at WrestleMania. Nice pull on the emotional strings to encourage PPV buys. Hardy avoided the spinning fist, then Hardy avoided the axe kick later to set up the Twist of Fate for the pin and the win. Fine match to reinforce Hardy in control as a heel going into Mania. Everything on TV is pointed toward Mania and this was an effective use of Hardy. Not so much Truth. (*)

(5) WWE tag team champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON & BRIE BELLA beat World tag team champions MIZ & MORRISON & NIKKI BELLA in 3:00. Before the bell sounded, the twins had a verbal exchange before they were separated to opposite corners. Ross equated Miz & Morrison to the Midnight Express tag team because of how well they work as one unit. Twins broke out into a brawl, then Carlito slipped over Morrison in mid-air into the backstabber for the pin and the win. Nice finish, but very short match. Decent preview for the tag title unification match. (*1/2)

(6) Divas champion Maryse vs. Michelle McCool went to a No Contest in 4:00. The action moved to the floor twice during the match to get over the aggression between the rival divas. Suddenly, Gail Kim entered the ring up top and nailed a missile dropkick on McCool to make an emphatic return to WWE. Ross acknowledged her by name. Gail then grabbed the Divas Title and held it over the fallen competitors to signify she wants the belt. Crowd reaction was decent for someone who hasn't been on WWE TV in several years.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 31 2009, 01:40 pm
WWE RAW Results: 3-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report. (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31052.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- 18-DIVAS BATTLE ROYALE

Nine of the heel divas were already in the ring. Babyfaces ran through intros. ECW assistant Tiffany of all people scored the pin on Katie Lea. It's obvious WWE is more concerned about ring intros than actual in-ring action. Santino then showed up in a robe. He wants in the Miss WrestleMania match at WrestleMania, then he pulled out a man-kini. What happened to the bro or manzierre? Beth Phoenix continued the storyline that's well-beyond-played-out by being embarrassed by Santino's actions before the divas tackled him. Wonderful.

WINNERS: Team Tiffany in 2:00. (n/a)

2 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. JERRY LAWLER

Bell sounded and they had a lock-up. Lawler shoved Jericho, then Jericho shoved Lawler. Lawler answered him with a big right hand, but that was virtually all of the offense for Lawler, who took a whopping until Jericho put him in the Walls of Jericho in center ring. Lawler quickly tapped.

Post-match: Jericho wasn't done and he re-entered the ring to pick up Lawler. Suddenly, Lawler sprung to life and punched Jericho in the face. Jericho took the mic and said he's already beaten Lawler and he doesn't need to get back in the ring. He said he won't apologize for what he does to the Legends at WrestleMania because Mickey Rourke started this mess and he'll watch his "friends" face their demise. He said he will humiliate and eradicate the Legends from wrestling forever.

WINNER: Jericho in 3:00. Odd booking of Lawler to take a decisive loss like that, but Lawler at least got some measure of revenge back. Cole can't even muster enough life for commentary on his co-partner's match. Jericho with a good promo for Mania, but nowhere near the level this program was at five weeks ago. Sadness. (*)

3 -- IC champion JBL vs. REY MYSTERIO -- non-title match

Rey tried to build momentum early, but JBL ran him over with a shoulderblock leading to commercial.

JBL knocked Rey to the floor out of the break. Back in the ring, Rey fired back on JBL with kicks to the face. He then hit a seated sentaun and an enziguiri kick. Rey wanted the 619, but JBL moved. Rey then kicked him to another set of ropes and nailed the 619 this time. Rey then hit the springboard splash on JBL for the win. JBL was shocked post-match.

WINNER: Rey in 6:00. Rey with a solid win to set up the IC Title match at Mania. I just do not agree with giving away any WM match on free TV six days beforehand. Doesn't make Mania seem special. That said, good use of Rey on TV to build excitement for Mania. (*1/2)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW

Cena went for a leaping shoulderblock at 2:00, but Show brick-walled him into a flat back bump on the mat. Impressive spot that looked even better on replay. Show tried to squash Cena in the corner, but Cena moved. He tried to build momentum, but Show tossed him high into the air to land a stomach-first on the mat. Show wanted the Vader Bomb out of the corner, but Cena moved and sprung up top for the leaping guillotine leg drop. Cena wanted the STFU, but Show kicked him away. Show then drop-kicked Cena off the apron to the floor going to break.

Back from break, Show was sitting on Cena's back with a modified Camel Clutch. Cena made his face turn purple as he tried to grit his way into a squat, but Show just sat on his back to cut Cena off. Show then wanted the chokeslam, but Cena countered into a DDT. Crowd popped as Cena tried to follow with the STFU, but Show's body is too huge. Show elbowed him in the face to escape, then he avoided an attempted FU and gave Cena a chokeslam. Show with the pin for a clean win on Cena. Wha?

Post-match: Edge snuck into the ring and stared down Show, then he tackled Cena and started beating the crap out of him. Show just stood back in the corner and sweated while watching. Another ref stormed the ring to pull Edge off Cena, who struggled to collect his breath as Edge had that "Edge look" in his eyes.

WINNER: Show in 11:00. Really good TV match with strong crowd involvement, but very odd to see Cena taking another TV loss. So weird when he used to never lose. Apparently this is punishment for his movie sucking at the box office. Show looked good in the ring thanks to WWE booking around his limited mobility and Cena creating a lot of movement. (**)

5 -- MITB BATTLE ROYAL

Henry tried to press-slam Finlay out of the ring, then Henry eventually just tossed him out. Hornswoggle was none too pleased, which allowed everyone else to toss out Henry from behind. Punk tried to eliminate Christian, then Kane tried to eliminate both of them. Kane then turned his attention to MVP and Shelton Benjamin to get rid of them simultaneously.

Final four: Punk (Mich. St.), Kane (UCONN), Christian (UNC), and Kofi Kingston (Villanova). Streeeetch. Kane tried to eliminate Christian, but the former TNA star held on to the top rope. In any event, Kofi was knocked out, then Kane press-slammed Punk onto Christian to eliminate both men and win the battle royal. Post-match: Kane grabbed a ladder and slid it into the ring. Kane then scaled the ladder and retrieved the MITB briefcase.

WINNER: Kane in 4:00. More focus on Kane as the dominant star heading into MITB. Probably means he won't win, but he's been built-up effectively with an eye on post-Mania for a potential main event program on Raw, Smackdown, or ECW depending on Draft. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2009, 09:42 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 3-31-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31080.shtml)

1 -- CHRISTIAN & FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MARK HENRY & KANE

Kane grappled Christian around the neck early, but Christian fought him off and tagged out to Finlay. Back and forth exchange, then they cut to break.

They returned from break with Kane working over Finlay in the corner. Christian finally took a hot tag and wanted a cross-body on Henry, but Henry caught him in mid-air. Christian fought out, then Finlay and Christian executed a double-team dropkick on the big man from Silsbee, Texas. ChrisLay dumped Kane to the outside, then Christian wanted a top rope splash, but Henry caught him in mid-air for the World's Strongest Slam and the pin. Ouch.

Post-match: Henry pointed to the briefcase hanging above the ring. Kane, who won the MITB preview match on Monday, then joined Henry to gaze at the briefcase. Henry wasn't feeling that, so he clotheslined Kane to the mat so he could join Christian staring up at the lights.

WINNERS: Henry & Kane in 10:00. Fine match. Not a fan of Christian taking the loss without having enough offense to remain credible in the eyes of viewers when he's re-establishing a first impression, but WWE is obviously keeping the big men strong since they're not winning at MITB with an eye on post-Mania for the big men to be utilized in semi-to-main-event-level programs on Raw, Smackdown, ECW, or WGN. (*)

2 -- NIKKI BELLA (w/World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON) vs. BRIE BELLA (w/WWE tag team champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON)

Morrison was a little pre-occupied texting during the match. The boys started playing tag on the outside setting up a distraction in the ring where bad girl Nikki rolled up good girl Brie for the pin and the win. Brie was not pleased, so Miz made a sarcastic wipe-away-the-tears motion on the entrance ramp as Team Morrison celebrated victory. Morrison was still pre-occupied with himself to fit his character as the show closed.

WINNER: Nikki in 3:00. Just a standard, quick divas match advancing the tag title program leading to WrestleMania. (1/2*)

Okay, you read right...TWO MATCHES!!! Caldwell summed it up nicely:
Quote
Overall thought: Perhaps if you've missed the entire WrestleMania build-up, you would have enjoyed this recap and diva show. Perhaps if you watch this on the DVR, you can set the record for fastest viewing of a wrestling show in history. If you sat through this live for an entire hour and make a living covering pro wrestling and have no way of fast-forwarding through live TV in real-time, then you're ready to pull your hair out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2009, 10:14 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31127.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CONSEQUENCES CREED & "BLACK MACHISMO" JAY LETHAL & LAX (Homicide & Hernandez) vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR & NO LIMIT & KIYOSHI

West said he respects that Bashir realizes he won't win a popularity contest with his views, but he speaks his mind and stands by it. He also defended Angle's perspective. Everybody got a spot or two in including a dive by Lethal and Homicide through the ropes at two heels on the floor. Back in the ring Bashir avoided Creed's finisher with an eye rake, then DDT'd him for the win.

WINNERS: Bashir & No Limit & Kiyoshi in 4:00.
STAR RATING: 3/4*

-Only four minutes of in-ring action in the first 52 minutes of the show.

2 -- TEAM 3D vs. MAIN EVENT MAFIA SECURITY (Rocco & Sal)

They were just called "Security" on the graphic on their way to the ring, but Tenay called them Rocco and Sal again. Sal and Rocco attacked Team 3D from behind as Beer Money distracted them. Tenay accused Beer Money of orchestrating the blindside. They denied it and said they respect Team 3D and just want to watch the match. Well, Brother Ray found opponents who make him look fit. It was a competitive match with mostly stand up brawling. Team 3D caught Rocco on the top rope (what was he doing up there?) and slammed him to the mat. They followed with a 3D for the win.

WINNERS: Team 3D in 4:00.
STAR RATING: 1/2*

4 -- MADISON RAYNE (w/Angelina Love & Velvet Sky) vs. TAYLOR WILDE

Taylor dropkicked Rayne to the floor early. Sky and Love attacked Wilde at ringside and then threw her into the ring where Rayne took over at 1:00. Tenay went into plugging Steiner vs. Styles and Sting vs. Foley. TNA's creative team still is not big at all on promoting big matches ahead of time and letting that anticipation build, but rather announcing matches early on the show that happen later in the show. Wilde won with a leverage pin at 3:00. Love and Sky attacked Wilde afterward and tried to hold her down to cut her hair, but Wilde scurried away. Love and Sky were upset with Rayne for letting Wilde escape.

WINNER: Wilde in 3:00.
STAR RATING: *


5 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. A.J. STYLES

Tenay said what's at stake here is getting a step closer to having the one-man advantage at Lockdown. He compared it to having a power play in hockey. Steiner gave Styles a low-blow at 2:00, then they cut to a break.

Back in the ring Steiner remained in control. Styles came back at 6:00 and set up a Styles Clash. Steiner backdropped out of it. Styles hit a bridging suplex for a near fall. Steiner springboarded off he top rope with a flying forearm, but the ref got hit instead of Steiner. With the ref down, Angle slid Steiner a chair. Steiner swung the chair, but Styles ducked and hit a Pele Kick. Jarrett came to ringside and attacked Angle. Styles grabbed the chair. The ref got up and warned Styles not to use it. Jarrett yanked the chair from Styles. Steiner then planted Styles on the chair and scored the pin. West said Jarrett cost Styles the match. Tenay said Jarrett was trying to warn Styles that he'd get DQ'd if he used the chair.

WINNER: Steiner in 9:00.
STAR RATING: *1/4

6 -- STING vs. SAMOA JOE

Joe went right after Sting at the bell with a barrage of punches. Joe stopped an early attempt at a Sting comeback and kicked him to the mat. Sting dropped Joe at 1:00 and applied an early Scorpion. Joe powered out of it. Sting hit a clothesline in the corner. When he went for a corner dive, Joe caught him and one-arm slammed him to the mat. When the ref scolded Joe for hitting Sting repeated in the corner against the ropes, Joe threw the ref to the mat for the DQ.

WINNER: Sting via DQ in 2:00.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2009, 10:11 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31166.shtml) The show was mostly promos to Wrstlemania as there was only 3 matches...

1 -- MARYSE & MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. GAIL KIM & MARIA

Ross said Maria is excited to tag with Kim. Tazz said he wouldn't mind tagging with Kim. The heel duo took control early, isolating Maria in their corner. Gail got a hot-tag at 2:00 and worked over Maryse with a pace of offense that Maryse had trouble keeping up with. Kim hit a crossbody off the middle rope. When McCool made her way into the ring, Kim gave up the cover to knock her to the floor. Kim returned to offense on Maryse, finishing her with a neckbreaker.

WINNERS: Kim & Maria in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2* -- Kim looked really sharp, already the class of the division. Did I mention how boneheaded it was of TNA to low-ball her and let her go? This match was ridiculously short, but what else is new.

2 -- MVP vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN -- U.S. Title match

Shelton settled into the offense, including a chinlock at 2:00. Tazz and Ross talked about the Money in the Bank ladder match, and how intriguing it is because there are no overwhelming favorites. Tazz admired a Shelton suplex, saying back in the day that was his forte. Ross said he was the "Human Suplex Machine."

MVP made a comeback at 5:00. He hit a powerslam and palyed to the crowd for a mild pop. Many fans are still wondering why they're supposed to cheer this guy who spent a year bashing them and bragging up himself, then went on a losing streak, and suddenly for absolutely no reason began playing to them as if he was their hero. MVP went into his finishing sequence for a near fall. Shelton returned fire with a spin wheelkick for a near fall. Shelton hit a top rope flip neckbreaker for a near fall at 6:00. Ross called it "an amazing offensive maneuver." MVP hit a big boot to cut off Shelton's momentum, then his Playmaker for the win.

WINNER: MVP in 7:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Solid TV match. Pretty much the definition of a two-star average seven minute match. It didn't feel epic or anything, but it was fine for what it positioned to be.

3 -- JEFF HARDY vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/The Brian Kendrick)

With seven minutes left in the hour, the first original content of the hour since the three minutes of Shelton vs. MVP that opened the hour. Ezekiel overpowered Hardy at the start. Ross said he wanted to erase from his mind the image of Matt petting the Jack Russell Terrier. At 3:00 Hardy came back and clotheslined Jackson to the floor. Hardy then dove over the top rope onto both Jackson and Kendrick. As Hardy went after Kendrick at ringside, Jackson jumped him from behind. Hardy came back with a DDT in the ring followed by a Twist of Fate and a Swanton for the clean win.

WINNER: Hardy in 4:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4*
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 06 2009, 01:13 pm
WWE WrestleMania 25 PPV Results: 4-5-09

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).

Well, here's what WWE thinks about tag team wrestling. They put the unified tag title match in the dark match spot. Miz & Morrison came out first to defend the World Tag Titles vs. Carlito & Primo, who have the WWE tag titles. Before that, ECW announcers Todd Grisham and Matt Striker made their ringside appearance to call the match. Lumberjacks also came out to surround ringside.

Before the show, Bruce Pritchard was walking around on the floor. Very much a stand-out personality. ... Crowd filled in magnificently before the dark match. I've never seen Reliant Stadium this filled for a Texans game. Looks great.

A -- WWE tag team champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON vs. World tag team champions THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON -- Unified tag title match

Very good tag match. Primo took the hot tag and cleaned house with his aerial offense. Morrison wanted the Moonlight Drive on Primo, but he countered with the backcracker for the pin and the win after Carlito took Miz off the ring apron.

WINNERS: Carlito & Primo to win Unified tag titles. Like I said, this was a really good tag match. Crowd bought into the nearfalls post-hot tag. Should have been on the live PPV. Perhaps a video package will air? (***)
 
1 -- MITB Ladder match

As expected, Shelton tried to do the crazy bumps. Some crazy spots early on, including a tease of Mark Henry doing a huge splash off the top rope onto the other seven on the floor. Turned into Hornswoggle running off Henry's back for a big splash onto the other seven. At the end, they teased Christian climbing the ladder to pop the hardcore fans who wanted to see Christian win, but Kane knocked him off. Punk then knocked Kane off and climbed up top to grab the ladder and win the MITB match for the second year in a row.

WINNER: Punk at 14:24. Very good, but not quite great MITB ladder match. We knew it was going long because they set up the set for Kid Rock on stage while the match was going on. Shelton had the usual crazy spots, which were pretty cool. MVP was below-average, I felt, especially on the botched sunset flip powerbomb spot with Shelton near the end. Good start to the PPV. (***)
 
2 -- TWENTY-FIVE DIVA BATTLE ROYAL

They went right from Kid Rock to the bell ringing for this match. All of the women were already in the ring. Mae Young was the guest time keeper at ringside, with Candice Michelle sitting next to her. Rosa Mendez was the first eliminated. Women are eliminated if their feet hit the floor, whether or not they went over the top rope or through the ropes. Regarding May, Lawler said, "She remembers back when she was a beautiful diva. Then the meteor hit and the dinosaurs died." Molly Holly and Sunny were among the early eliminations. They flew to Houston for that? Santino was dressed in drag in the ring just avoiding any contact. The final five were Santino, Michelle McCool, Beth Phoenix, Mickie James, and Melina. McCool and Mickie tumbled to the floor next. Santino then knocked Phoenix and Melina to the floor to win. The crowd chanted "San-tin-o!" afterward. The announcers were instructed to play dumb, as they pretended they didn't know who it was.

WINNER: Santino Marella in 6:00.

STAR RATING: n/a -- Afterward, Santino claimed he was Santina Marella, Santino's twin sister from Italy. He cried as Candice put the Diva Crown on his head. Beth Phoenix was upset that he stole her moment.
 
3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. RICKY STEAMBOAT & RODDY PIPER & JIMMY SNUKA (w/Ric Flair)

Strong reception for Flair, who came out last. Snuka was out at 3:50, then Piper out at 4:44. Piper was fine early on as the first Legend in there. Steamboat was very popular, then he came in as the last line of defense for the Legends. Jericho tried to toss Steamboat over the top rope, but Steamboat skinned the cat - yes he did - back into the ring. After Jericho bumped Flair off the apron, he found a blow from Steamboat. Steamboat nailed a plancha to the floor. Man is still in good shape. Crowd is really behind Steamboat. He nearly scored pinfalls with roll-ups, but Jericho eventually got him with the codebreaker for the pin.

WINNER: Chris Jericho at 8:57. Steamboat can still go and the crowd was definitely into him. Fine undercard match. (*1/2)

Post-match: Jericho and Flair brawled until Jericho caught Flair with the codebreaker and sent Flair scurrying to the outside. Jericho then turned his attention to Mickey Rourke on the front row. Fans wanted Austin, though. Rourke eventually took the bait and jumped into the ring after milking it forever. Too long to where the audience lost interest momentarily. Rourke then got into the ring and went into a boxing stance. Jericho dodged twice, then went for a big punch, but Rourke ducked and nailed him with an elbow. Jericho sold it and that was that. Flair and Rourke celebrated to close the deal. Surreal seeing Rourke in the ring, but he didn't have the timing down to work the crowd up for the moment.
 
4 -- MATT HARDY vs. JEFF HARDY -- Extreme Rules match

The brothers were in a tough position of following some gimmick matches and a legends match, so they pulled out the weapons too soon without trying to build up a story. Crowd was laid back for this one until they started to try to kill each other with highspots. Jeff pulled out two giant ladders and tried to leap onto Matt in center ring, but Matt moved and Jeff ate the mat with a flatback bump. Matt, having taken a huge beating to give Jeff plenty of offense for Even Steven booking, then hit a Twist of Fate with Jeff's head inside a chair. Matt with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Matt at 13:14. They tried hard, but couldn't push the match into second gear until they tried to kill each other. Of course, they used a chair shot to the head from Jeff to Matt to try to get a reaction, but that didn't work too well. Hopefully the lack of response for chair shots to the head will be a deterrent more than any medical research. (**1/2)
 
5 -- IC champion JBL vs. REY MYSTERIO -- IC Title match

Before the bell sounded, JBL attacked Rey with a big boot. Ref allowed Rey to recover, then he called for the bell. Rey suddenly busted out an enziguiri kick, hit the 619, and nailed the springboard splash for a surprise pin to win the belt.

WINNER: Rey at 0:19 to capture the IC Title. Well, there's your memorable WM moment. (n/a)

Post-match: Rey celebrated with the belt, then JBL came to looking very shocked. JBL looked around the arena, then took the mic and said he has something to say. Crowd booed. JBL waited with concern written all over his face. JBL stuttered, then shouted, "I Quit!" Oh. Crowd applauded, then chanted, "Na na na, goodbye." So, is that the historic thing at Mania? First person to quit on the spot?
 
6 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. THE UNDERTAKER

I just watched this one without taking notes during the match. Simply amazing. The only debate will be how close to five stars that match was in terms of setting the bar so high on how to perform in a WrestleMania main event. Big stage. Big match. Big stakes. Big spots. Taker taking the skin-the-cat into a Tombstone and Michaels kicking out of the Tombstone was one of the all-time great spots. Only thing that knocked it down from a five-star classic was the deal with the cameraman ringside. Worked well to set up a tired ref for more drama with the nearfalls, but could have been done in a different way. Other than that, just what you expect from two of the top two performers in wrestling. Right before the counter of the moonsault into Tombstone for the pin, I looked up and saw an entire stadium on its feet with eyes glued on the ring (or giant HD screens) to watch a great performance. Just a sight to behold.

WINNER: The Undertaker at 30:41. (****3/4)
 
7 -- WWE World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. BIG SHOW vs. JOHN CENA -- World Hvt. Title match

WWE took a gamble that the fans wouldn't treat this as a buffer match to the main event with the star power of John Cena in the semi-main event following the amazing Michaels vs. Taker match. Fans treated it as a buffer match, though. There were a few spots that generated reactions, but it wasn't until the finish that the crowd came to life for Cena hitting FUs on Show and Edge, then pinning Show for the win to capture the title.

WINNER: Cena at 14:43 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Underwhelming title match. Just not memorable despite Cena winning the title. Tough spot to be in following HBK-Taker. (**1/2)
 
8 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. RANDY ORTON -- WWE Title match

Boring title match. Crowd was not into the action, which never moved out of first gear as they tried to win the crowd with a slow-paced, methodical main event match. Hunter gets his WrestleMania moment in the sun, but the match wasn't any good. Weak title match. They set the bar too high with this storyline with crazy antics and storyline progression, then delivered a basic deal with only a sledgehammer coming into play behind the ref's back to set up Hunter with the Pedigree for the win.

WINNER: Hunter at 23:32. Anti-climatic finish to a PPV featuring one of the all-time best WrestleMania matches. I'll write more about this on Monday regarding the same problem I saw from ROH on Friday where the next-to-next-last match stole the show and left the final two matches with a tough hill to climb to re-involve the crowd in a four hour show. There's just a standard for three hour wrestling shows and the audience is ready for the main event at the two-hour mark. Michaels vs. Taker was the main event and the last two matches just didn't have a chance. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 07 2009, 02:00 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31228.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- UNIFIED tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON vs. THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON -- Unified tag title match -- Lumberjack match

Morrison was chucked to the outside early in the match and the babyface jacks took their time getting in some shots before chucking him back into the ring. Colons in control heading to break.

Back from break, Carlito took a hot tag and nailed a neckbreaker on Miz for a two count. Miz then slingshot him to the apron and Carlito shoved him down onto the lumberjacks below. Awkward spot. Morrison then hopped up top and nailed a sick Shooting Star Press/450 splash onto all of the lumberjacks ringside. Whoa, where did that come from? Back in the ring, the action broke down, then Primo took Morrison to the floor. Lumberjack brawl broke out. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Miz blocked the backcracker and rolled up Carlito for a close two count. Miz couldn't believe it. He then put Carlito in the electric chair, but Carlito slipped out and hit the backstabber for the pin and the win to retain the belts.

WINNERS: Colons at 9:30. Very good TV tag match with the lumberjacks creating some movement ringside to enhance the match. Just a sample of how good the pre-PPV match was. (**1/4)

2 -- RAW DIVAS vs. SMACKDOWN DIVAS 10-diva tag match

Line-up for the Raw Divas was Kelly Kelly, Jillian Hall, Layla, Women's champion Melina, and Mickie James. Smackdown Divas had Eve Torres, Divas champion Maryse, Gail Kim, Natalya, and Maria. Might as well just mix and match the heel and babyface divas after Santino took over the division last night. Mickie scored the pin for her team after a DDT on Natalya, who took advantage of her chance to be on Raw TV earlier in the match.

WINNERS: Team Raw at 3:53. Interesting to see how the diva feuds shake up after the Draft next week. Perhaps they will finally break up Santino(a) and Beth after the Glamarella deal ran its course. (*)

3 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA & C.M. PUNK & JEFF HARDY & RICKY STEAMBOAT & IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. CHRIS JERICHO & MATT HARDY & KANE & BIG SHOW & EDGE

Match was joined in progress with Matt working over Rey. Jeff then took a tag and Matt scurried to his heel partners to tag in Edge. Hardy and Edge had a mis-communication trying to set up some spots, so Hardy tagged out to Cena. Cena set up Edge, then stared down Steamboat and milked a well-received tag to Ricky. He snapped off a top rope chop, then a thrust before slapping on an armbar. "You still got it," was the chant.

Kane tagged in and Ricky took him down to size, then he delivered a round of chops on the other heels. Crowd hot for Ricky, who went up for a chop on Kane. "Vintage Ricky the Dragon," Cole said to kill it all. Kane then dropped Steam with a sidewalk slam to begin a isolated attack on Steamboat. Crowd still very much behind Steamboat trying to rally him. Ricky ripped off some chops on Big Show, but Show cut him off. Jericho then came in and slapped on the Walls of Jericho, but Steamboat grabbed Jericho's ankles and rolled him up for a two count.

Punk then took a tag when Steamboat flipped away from Jericho and he cleaned house. Punk with a bulldog on Jericho, then he started clearing the heels off the apron until Kane nailed him with an uppercut. Jericho worked on Punk with some offense, then the heels started isolating Punk going into a break.

Back from break, Punk was still taking a beating. Show then tried to quiet the crowd for a frying-pan-like chop to the chest. Show then slap-tagged Edge into the match and the fighters for Vickie's affection shared unwelcoming glance. Kane tagged in and took Punk up top, but Punk fought him off to the mat. Punk wanted a second-rope smash, but Kane blocked with a chokeslam grip, but Punk countered with a tornado DDT. Babyfaces were itching for a hot tag and Hardy took the tag. He worked on Edge, who also took a tag. Hardy with a dropkick combo, then a pin for a two count. Matt tried to sneak in, but Jeff tossed him to the floor and hit a plancha. Cena took a tag in the interim, then Rey before Cena took Show over the top rope to the floor. Rey then set up Edge and Jericho for a double 619. Sick. Rey went up top and Steamboat went up top too. Steamboat hit a cross-body splash on Edge and Rey hit a top rope splash on Jericho simultaneously. Rey then made the pin for the win.

Post-match: Punk grabbed his briefcase and had a brief stare down with Cena. Punk can cash in that briefcase anytime. Steamboat receive a ton of love from Cena as the heels were shown taking the walk of shame. Steamboat then took center ring all for himself and celebrated in the ring one more time to cap off his amazing weekend. Cena, Rey, Punk, and Jeff were then shown standing on the entrance ramp giving Ricky a standing ovation. Ricky ran out of the ring and jumped into all of their arms.

WINNERS: Team Steamboat at 15:35 of TV time. Awesome match. Some guys just never lose that in-ring ability to wrestle and Steamboat has it in his bones. As long as he's breathing, he'll be able to tell a story in the ring. Awesome to see him the last two nights. Match had a fun finish to send 'em home happy 45 minutes early. (***1/2)

4 -- SANTINA MARELLA vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Rosa Mendes)

They came back and aired a WWE.com exclusive of Santino dancing around the ring during the break while Beth just stood there embarrassed. Bell sounded back live and Beth slapped Santino across the chest. Santino tried to use Rosa against Beth, but Beth caught him back in the ring for a powerslam attempt. Santino held onto the top rope, though, and rolled on top of Beth to score a pin for the win.

WINNER: Santina at 1:18. Santino(a) played the comedy role just fine. Classic WWE sketch comedy featuring the absurd and men playing dress-up or being shown wearing off-color underwear to fulfill some sort of strange McMahon preference for filler wrestling segments. (n/a)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. VINCE MCMAHON

The bell sounded and McMahon stepped up to Orton for a big open-hand slap. Orton sold like he was shot in the face, then McMahon landed some more blows. He kicked Orton in the gut and the fight spilled to the floor where McMahon continued to dominate. Back in the ring, Orton slipped in a fallaway backbreaker to cut off McMahon. Orton waited for McMahon to slowly get up, then he grappled McMahon and gave him the RKO in center ring. Orton didn't make a cover, though. He waited for McMahon to slowly reach his knees, then Orton lined up McMahon for a Punt, but Shane stormed into the ring and pummeled Orton. Apparently it's No DQ, as the ref let it all go. Cody and Ted then jumped into the ring to attack Shane. Suddenly, Triple H stormed ringside and took out the Two Stooges on the floor. Hunter fought with Orton back in the ring until Cody and Ted jumped Hunter. Match still going on, apparently.

Suddenly, Batista's music hit. Oh snap! Batista came out on stage dressed to wrestle and he stormed the ring to tackle Orton. He cleared the heels, then shook the ropes, as the announcers screamed that "Batista is back!" Cody bailed before he could take a beating, but Hunter threw Cody back into the ring and Shane shoved Cody into Batista for a Batistabomb. Orton and Ted high-tailed it up the stage. Vince then talked from ringside that Batista will be taking his place at Backlash. Batista was pumped up as Orton and Ted bailed to the backstage area. They recapped the ending of the segment to close the show.

WINNER: Who knows in who knows when. Run-in came around 4:30, so we'll go with that, although the match never officially ended. Big surprise for Batista's return, but they're back on the same path of killing Randy Orton's heat. Orton being scripted to sell for McMahon was just as sad as him ridiculously selling SuperShane's punches the night after the Rumble. McMahon Family's over-inflated sense of self on TV defies logic. (1/2*)

What the heck? No focus on Michaels vs. Taker other than a 30-second spot in the middle of the show? That's absurd. I don't want to speculate that Hunter had something to do with this since HBK and Taker stole his WrestleMania moment, but if it smells like chicken and tastes like chicken, then it's chicken.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2009, 01:39 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 4-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31257.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MIZ & JOHN MORRISON & TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. EVAN BOURNE & Unified tag team champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON

Miz took a beating early on, so he tagged out to Kidd, who took out Carlito at the knees. Carlito was isolated in the corner, then he tagged out to Evan Bourne, who came in hot on Morrison. Bourne kicked Morrison in the chest, then ran up on his shoulders to flip him over the top rope to the floor with a nice huracanrana. Bourne escaped Double Trouble on the floor and slipped back into the ring to stand tall going into break.

Back from break, heels were working on Bourne as Mathews & Striker talked about the Draft next Monday. Mathews sounded great on commentary during the Velocity era, but he just sounds a little off his first night back on national TV. Grisham and Striker were just so awesome together on ECW. Match really slowed down as Bourne was isolated to build up to a hot tag to Primo. Kidd also tagged in for the heels and Primo snapped off a round of aerial offense that has made him a stand-out star in recent months. Action broke down and Miz was tossed to the floor. Carlito was tossed out too. Primo then flung Morrison to the outside, leaving himself and Kidd, who missed a top rope splash. Primo then grappled Kidd from behind and nailed the backstabber. Primo hot-tagged to Bourne and he nailed the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Bourne & Primo & Carlito in 15:00. Solid ECW TV match. Great flurry at the end after a weak mid-portion when Bourne was isolated forever. Bourne's SSP still looks awesome every time he hits it. I'm waiting for Primo's break-out spring 2009. It's time. (**1/2)

2 -- CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER vs. FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Dreamer should be on the advantage since he's the only one who wasn't in MITB on Sunday. They quickly jumped into the match with Christian against Dreamer and Henry against Finlay. They quickly went to a break. Apparently they're in a hurry for the main event tonight.

Back from break, three men executed a suplex on big Mark Henry before shoving him into the ring steps ringside. Apparently they don't want to deal with him until it's absolutely imperative. Striker took us back to last year's Elimination Chase to the ECW Title in the third-person when Tommy Dreamer won the deal before his mammoth man took the spot from Dreamer. Striker was referring to Big Daddy V when he managed him. Mathews and Striker got into their first tiff as the pace picked up in the ring. Hornswoggle then ran interference to help Finlay use a shillelagh against Henry and cover him for the first elimination. Wait, that's it.

WINNER: Finlay in 10:00, Henry eliminated. That was an anti-climatic finish. So, apparently, it's a triple threat match next week and they eliminate another person next week before determining the #1 contender on the final ECW before Backlash. Match was okay, but it wasn't detailed very well to set up the wrong expectations. Mathews and Striker had very little chemistry, by the way. Hard to put together a great combo with no experience working together, but it didn't work tonight. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2009, 11:37 pm
Ring Of Honor TV Results: 4-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31255.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results.

1 -- STERLING JAMES KEENAN vs. ERICK STEVENS

Stevens landed a series of chops early on, then Keenan cheated to gain the advantage and draw Hogewood's ire on commentary. Stevens tried to regain control as the crowd was virtually taken out of the match. Stevens broke free of a stranglehold submission and nailed an overhead suplex. He followed with the choo-choo splash in the corner before nailing a shoulderblock from the second rope. Everything built to the Doctor Bomb and Stevens nailed it for the win.

WINNER: Stevens at 7:00. Match was designed to showcase Stevens's power offense and introduce him as the powerhouse wrestler in ROH. Just fine, but Stevens needs to find a way to stand out more. (**)

2 -- CHEECH & CLOUDY vs. DARK CITY FIGHT CLUB (JOHN DAVIS & CORY CHAVOUS)

Dark City dominated early until Cloudy snapped off a huracanrana. DC had a mis-communication to set up the opposition for a 619, but it was over quickly thereafter. Cheech took a combo sit-out powerbomb and neckbreaker from DCFC for the win.

WINNERS: DCFC in 3:00. Squash to introduce the Dark City. They have potential, although not much personality that jumps off the screen. Give them time. (3/4*)

3 -- CHRIS HERO (w/Larry Sweeney and Sara Del Rey) vs. NECRO BUTCHER

Sweeney tried to run interference to help out Hero, but Necro kicked out of a pin attempt. Hero threw Necro to the floor and the outside participants put the boots to Necro. Hero played the cocky heel in the ring, much to Hogewood's chagrin. Suddenly, some encouragement from Sweeney to Hero was inserted in between spots as Hero continued to work on Necro. Hero booted Necro in the head and Necro spilled to the floor again. This time, he used a chair for a chairpowerslam on the floor. No word from the announcers on why this was allowed. Sweeney then ran interference to give Hero the loaded elbow pad. Prazak played the devil's advocate on Hero being allowed to use the loaded elbow pad on Necro for the pin and the win. Post-match: They focused on Necro in "The Wrestler."

WINNER: Hero in 8:00. Match continued this week's theme of putting over specific moves, such as the loaded elbow pad in this match. Rules of the match were seemingly tossed out without an explanation, which is befitting of a Necro match. (*1/2)

4 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. BRYAN DANIELSON

Basic exchange early on between the two ROH all-stars. Prazak referenced Danielson's training background at Shawn Michaels's school back in the day, then both men paused for a staredown after a mat-based exchange. Aries went to work on Danielson as Hogewood cut off Prazak to scream about Aries going after the eyes. That dastardly man! Aries knocked Danielson to the outside, then he nailed a suicide dive on the floor. Back in the ring, Aries continued to work on Danielson. Aries got cocky and Danielson knocked him off the apron to the floor. Danielson then nailed a running knee strike off the apron.

Back in the ring at 10:00, Danielson hit a missile dropkick and another knee strike. He wanted the Cattle Mutilation, but Aries countered with a bridge pin for a two count. Aries wanted to follow with the brainbuster suplex, but Danielson blocked. Aries then slapped on the Last Chancery submission, but Danielson escaped into Undertaker's triangle choke. Aries tried to escape, but he eventually tapped out to give Danielson the victory in the TV main event.

WINNER: Danielson in 14:00. Very good TV main event. Good showcase of Danielson's offense and Aries's personality. Good chemistry between two of ROH's best. Would be nice if ROH tried something new on pro wrestling TV by sticking around after each week's main event for post-match commentary to give each week's main event a little more color. They have done a nice job each week of building up the main event throughout the show, so the only thing missing is post-match follow-up. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2009, 07:29 am
AAA on Galavision Results: 4-4-09

Results courtesy of Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #8860. (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2703653&postcount=8860) Condnesed here to in-ring results only.

1) El Apache, Fabi Apache & Gato Eveready vs. Billy Boy, Cinthia Moreno & El Orienta
-Only Fall: Women open the match with fast paced moves, followed by the speed of Gato and Oriental. Apache snaps and begins to slap everyone, including Gato, and this leads to the triple team ambush by the rudos. Billy brings out two chairs to punish Apache, but Fabi makes the save with a hard kick. Apache makes a huge comeback with a Crossbody on Billy, and he now uses the chairs on his son-in-law. Billy takes the chairs back, and targets Apache's leg. Apache is hurt, and medical staff help him out. Billy continues to attack Apache, even when he is taken on a stretcher. Fabi finally makes the comeback with fast paced moves, but Billy stops her. Billy connects with a suicide dive on Gato. Oriental attempts a Vader Bomb, but Fabi lifts her knees. Oriental accidentally kicks his sister, and Fabi rolls him up for the three count.
Winners: El Apache, Fabi Apache & Gato Eveready

2) La Hermandad (Joe Lider & Nicho El Millonario) vs. Mexican Powers (Crazy Boy & Ultimo Gladiador)
-Only Fall: When these two teams mix up, there is a carnival of botched moves all over the place. Crazy hits an Asai Moonsault on both heels. Nicho hits a Frankensteiner on Gladiador, to the outside. They acutally did a sick combo of a Superplex, a Back Suplex, and a Powerbomb, which looked botched but pretty awesome. Nicho gets a huge Corskcrew Crossbody from Gladiador. Crazy gets tons of falls, but the referee counts slowly. Lider lowblows Crazy, but the referee ignores it, and makes the three count.
Winners: Joe Lider & Nicho El Millonario

3) D-Generation MEX (X-Pac & Alex Koslov) vs. Hart Foundation 2.0 (Jack Evans & Teddy Hart w/Nikki)
-Only Fall: Koslov and Teddy kick off with fantastic technical moves. Evans and Waltman tag in, but Teddy gets himself tagged in for the double team assault. Koslov makes the comeback with a Springboard Elbow, and mocks Evans. Koslov delivers another Springboard Elbow on Evans, but this time on the outside. Waltman lands outside, and Teddy gets them with a Springboard Moonsault, followed by the Cartwheel Dive by Evans. The Harts get back in control of the match, with tons of aerial moves. Koslov even receives the American Tower Assault, which always looks sick. Evans mistakenly hits Diving Knees on Teddy, and the comeback begins, after a huge Superkick by Koslov, and a series of karate kicks from Waltman. Both Harts are taken out with a Hilo from Waltman, but Nikki gets involved again. Waltman connect with a top rope X-Factor on Teddy, but Nikki attempts to use her chest as a distraction again. Evans accidentally hits Nikki, and Waltman rolls him for a two count. Nikki gets an Enzuigiri from Koslov, and a Bronco Buster from Waltman. Teddy takaes advantage of the distraction to pin Koslov, after a sick Backcraker. Awesome match, but the Nikki factor dragged it down again.
Winners: Jack Evans & Teddy Hart

4) Silver King, Electroshock & Zorro vs. La Parka, Charlie Manson & Abismo Negro (R.I.P.)
-Only Fall: Match starts fait, but it turns into the classic TV main event, where the Legion ambushes the tecnicos for several minutes. Comeback begins, with aerial attacks from Manson. Parka brawls with Silver, and both brothers deal with each other as well. Inside the ring, Zorro makes Abismo submit ot the Zorro Stretch (manuever was named by me).
Winners: Silver King, Electroshock & Zorro

5) Mesias vs. Chessman & Konnan
-Only Fall: Mesias is rapidly ambushed by both Chessman and Konnan. Mesias makes the comeback with a clothesline to Konnan, but Chessman gives him a DDT. Chessman pins Mesias, after a Chair Legdrop.
Winners: Chessman & Konnan
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2009, 07:31 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-9-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1005353.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Sheik Abdul Bashir (w/Kiyoshi, No Limit) defeated Suicide in a non-title match in 4:00. Bashir tossed Suicide to ringside early. One of the No Limit members attacked him and threw him back inside the ring while the ref was distracted. Later, Kiyoshi entered the ring and kicked Suicide while the referee was distracted. Bashir DDT'd Suicide on the X Division Title belt and scored the pin. West played dumb about the belt on commentary. Afterward, the lights went out and when they came back on Suicide was gone...

Powell's POV: Mixed emotions on this result. Bashir needs some wins, but Suicide is showing signs of getting over and should continue to build momentum. It just feels like it's too soon for him to be losing matches.

2. Samoa Joe beat Booker T (w/Kurt Angle) in 1:50. Joe attacked Booker to start the match and maintained control of the offense until Angle reached in and tripped him. Angle handed Booker a chair, but Styles ran out, took away the chair, and attacked Booker. A short time later, Joe powerslammed Booker and scored the pin. Joe didn't look happy that Styles helped him. The series to determine which Lockdown team has the advantage is now tied 1-1...

Powell's POV: It's nice to see Joe get a win rather than the DQ stuff he's been doing, but Booker kinda looks like a ***** for losing in less than two minutes when he was trying to avenge his wife. They are doing a good job of establishing tension between the babyface team heading into the Lethal Lockdown match.

3. James Storm (w/Robert Roode) defeated Scott Steiner (w/Kevin Nash) by DQ in 4:25. Team 3D sat in on commentary to hype their pay-per-view match against Team 3D. Late in the match, Nash struck Storm with a lead pipe for the DQ. Team 3D ran in to scare off the Mafia, just as Beer Money saved them last week. West stole the moment by talking smack about Team 3D once they left the broadcast table...

4. Awesome Kong beat Madison Rayne and Velvet Sky (w/Velvet Sky) in a handicap match in 1:20. Kong went for the Awesome Bomb, but Rayne pushed Sky onto the Knockouts Champ. Rayne turned her head thinking the match was over, but Kong hooked Rayne's shoulders with her legs and scored the pin. Afterward, the BP tried to cut Kong's hair, but Taylor Wilde ran out for the save...

5. The Motor City Machine Guns defeated Mick Foley in a first blood handicap match to retain the New Japan Jr. Tag Team Titles in 9:30. Foley brought his barbwire baseball bat to the ring with him. As Foley walked to the ring, he exchanged a quick face-to-face glance with Sting, who is at ringside as the special enforcer referee.

West pointed out that he's never seen the Guns bleed in all the time they've been in TNA. Sabin dropkicked Foley on the floor, and then the Guns followed up with a double suicide dive that knocked Foley into the guardrail.

Powell's POV: Funny line about the Guns never bleeding. They caught a bunch of hell from TNA management for refusing to blade during an angle with Team 3D months ago. They story goes that they've never bladed before and objected to bleeding in that angle. They were in the doghouse for months.

After the break, Sabin mocked Sting, who responded by pulling him to ringside and delivering the Scorpion Death Drop. Foley hit the double-arm DDT on Sabin and applied the Mandible Claw with a sock on his hand. The referee noticed blood on the white sock and tried to call for the bell, but Foley stopped him and the match continued.

Foley walked over and picked up a microphone. He said blood on the sock is not what he promised. He said he promised to bust Shelley open. "Shelley, I'm going to make you suffer," Foley said. Mick picked up the barbwire baseball bat and brought inside the ring with him. He started to rake the bat over Shelley's head, but Sting stood up and struck Foley with a chair. Foley bled and the referee named the Guns the winners.

After the match, Foley and Sting had a pull-apart brawl to close the show...

Powell's POV: The main event would have done more for Shelley had he worked a singles match against Foley. Working a handicap match against Foley and needing help from Sting didn't make the Guns look strong. The finish was cheap, but it served as solid hype for Sting vs. Foley. The show is improving, but they need to add good, meaningful matches to the mix. Four minutes of wrestling in the first hour just isn't enough.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2009, 07:32 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-10-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete results). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1005368.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Big Show defeated Kofi Kingston at 3:28. The announce team put over Show as being pissed off. Kofi tried to lame *** handstand/kick things and on the second one, Show stomped on his head. Kofi escaped Show and managed to get a couple of kicks in, and then Show chopped him and the beat down began. Show hit a Camel Clutch slam which woke up Kingston. Kingston hit a couple of dropkicks until Show swatted one away and retook control. Kingston kicked Show as he charged into the corner, hit a missile dropkick, and finally dropped Show with another dropkick. He hit his signature leg drop and the climbed the ropes again. Show punched him out of the air for the win. Post match, a video replay showed the high spots…

Shore’s Slant: That’s first time I remember ever really paying attention to Kingston in an interview. Why isn’t this guy pushed? He can wrestle his *** off and he’s better than most on the mic. WTF? JJ Dillon talked about the lack of young talent, but it seems to me young talent never gets a chance so that’s kind of a self-fulfilling prophecy isn’t it? And for the record, how awesome was it when Steamboat and Flair locked up. For a split second I was 12 again and that was cool.

2. The Great Khali w/Ranjin Singh defeated Santiono Marella at 0:26. Punjabi Plunge. Pin. That’s it…

Shore’s Slant: I swear to God I am not going to cover Khali and Santino Marella making out. You sick bastards. I’d rather see Edge and Vickie do it than those two kiss.

3. Gail Kim defeated Michelle McCool at 2:54. McCool attacked Kim at the bell and then it got bad. Lots of missed spots. Maryse was shown watching on a monitor backstage. McCool got the better of Kim and drover her to the floor and kicked her against the wall. She rolled Kim back in and missed a leg drop. Kim hulked up and hit a flying cross body for two. McCool rolled out from an elbow drop from the top. She went to cover and Kim rolled her up for the win…

Shore’s Slant: McCool needs to go away for a while as she is completely uninspired. She looks aloof and was the problem with that match. She couldn’t keep up with Kim. That should have been good, but McCool made it awful. Tough break for Kim.

4. Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase defeated Carlito and Primo Colon at 9:14. DiBiase and Carlito started out. The announce team pointed out that Legacy has a title shot at Backlash. DiBiase and Rhodes worked quickly in and out on Carlito. Carlito dodged an elbow drop and tagged in Primo. He power bombed Primo onto Rhodes for a two count. Carlito tagged back in and Rhodes hit a chin buster. Legacy tried to double clothesline Carlito but he ducked and hit his back springboard elbow on them both. Primo ran in and they clotheslined Legacy over the top. DiBiase ran back in and Carlito back dropped him. DiBiase backed into a corner as the show went to commercial…

Back from commercial and Rhodes worked on Primo. Rhodes and DiBiase again tagged in and out quickly. Rhodes hooked in an abdominal stretch and Primo reversed into a hip toss. Rhodes charged and Primo tossed him over the top. DiBiase rolled Rhodes back in, but Primo got the hot tag and Carlito wrecked Rhodes. Carlito dropkicked DiBiase to the floor and climbed the ropes. DiBiase pulled Carlito off the rope and Rhodes hit his finisher, Cross Rhodes, for the win. DiBiase got a cheap shot on Primo and hit his finisher, Dream Street. They beat on the champs and Randy Orton came to the ring and kicked the champs a little. The group posed in the ring…[C]

Shore’s Slant: A solid, but uneventful match. That’s good, they managed to peak my interest and not give it all away. This ought to be pretty good after a month working house shows to get it right. This is a true heel stable for now. Evolution got cheers from the second it formed and never really felt healish whenever Flair was involved. He’s loved too much. But fans hate these guys, which they should. They could build several new faces with the heat they generate.

5. Matt Hardy defeated Jeff Hardy in a Stretcher Match in 15:15. Matt charged in and Jeff side stepped him and took control. They tumbled to ringside and the stretcher fun began. Jeff tried, and failed to suplex Matt onto a stretcher. Matt regained control and took the action back to the ring. Matt tried a suplex, but Jeff reversed into a front suplex. Matt reversed a move into a Side Effect.

He rolled the stretcher to the ring and placed Jeff on it. He got the first two wheels across the line and Jeff kicked him in the face. He rolled off the stretcher and clotheslined Matt. Jeff rolled the stretcher to the top of the ramp and surfed it down and jumped off to tackle Matt in a very cool spot to go into commercial…

Back at the 7:08 mark and Matt whipped Jeff who tackled Matt. He picked up Matt for a front atomic drop, but Matt locked in a weird submission move. Matt put Jeff on the stretcher and made it to the bottom of the ramp when Jeff fought out. Jeff whipped Matt into the stairs and both rested for a moment. Jeff got up and put Matt on the stretcher and got to the ramp but Matt slid out. They fought across the stretcher until Jeff fell down. He tried to run over Jeff’s head with the stretcher but Jeff moved. Matt rolled him back in the ring and set the stretcher up at ringside.

Matt got a chair but Jeff hit it into Matt’s head. Matt dropped the chair on the stretcher and Jeff punched him until he fell back onto the chair and stretcher. Matt rolled off and was holding onto the bottom of the stretcher. Jeff hit a leg drop onto the top of the stretcher, ramming the stretcher into Matt’s face. Jeff placed Matt on the stretcher, face down, and rammed it into the corner, sending Matt flying. He placed Matt back on the stretcher and climbed to the top rope. He went for the Swanton and Matt moved. Holy Shit. Matt rolled Jeff up the ramp. He had to stop a few times to punch Jeff before crossing the line and winning. Matt celebrated and kicked the stretcher. Jeff rolled all the way to the ring before slamming to a stop…

Shore’s Slant: Wow, Smackdown was better than Raw this week. That match was better than their Mania match in my opinion. Great hot spots and Jeff Hardy is a fool. No way I dive onto a stretcher. Wow. Solid, solid show and I hope this continues after the draft.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2009, 07:34 am
(http://moon.ap.teacup.com/deadman_inc/img/1117772294.gif)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2009, 07:35 am
Former WWE star Andrew "Test" Martin died after over-dosing on pain-killers, according to the Hillsborough County (Fla.) medical examiner.

The examiner determined that Martin accidentally over-dosed on Oxycodone, which is a key ingredient found in the painkiller OxyContin, reports the U.K. Sun.

After pain pills and steroids were found in Martin's apartment, the medical examiner requested a toxicology report to help determine the cause of death. It's apparent Martin had an excessive amount of pain medication in his system, which contributed to his death.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 15 2009, 03:16 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31374.shtml) Condensed to in-ring matches and draft selections.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE (ECW) vs. IC champion REY MYSTERIO (Raw) -- Draft Match -- non-title

The two even-sized cruiserweights started with a feeling-out process. Raw and ECW announcers were on the call for this one. Thank goodness for Matt Striker giving us some background on their Lucha backgrounds. Rey took Bourne to the outside early on and sent Bourne head-first into the guardrail via a drop toe hold. Back in the ring, they had a mid-air collision with Bourne scoring a two count on a pin attempt. Bourne then landed a standing moonsault for a two count. Bourne went up top, but Rey sprang to life and crotched Bourne. Rey snapped off a huracanrana, but Bourne kicked out. Rey then nailed the 619 and went up top. He nailed the top rope splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey at 3:30. Great dose of athleticism, but match should have been given plenty more time to showcase Bourne to a new Raw audience. (**)

Draft Pick #1: The video game board revealed that Raw gets U.S. champion MVP. After the announcement, MVP came out on stage and played to the crowd. Michael Cole made a reference to MVP's ego not being contained on Raw.

2 -- KANE (Raw) vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK (w/Ezekiel Jackson) (Smackdown) -- Draft Match

TBK tried to act cocky on Kane, who chased him to the outside. Zeke then took a pounding from Kane. Back in the ring, TBK begged of and tried a surprise kick, but Kane quickly dropped him with a chokeslam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kane at 0:45. Ouch. (n/a)

Draft Pick #2: Raw gets another pick. This time, it's Big Show. Show came out on stage and Kane stared up toward the stage. Oh gosh, we're getting another big-man feud.

3 -- Women's champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES (Raw) vs. Divas champion MARYSE & MICHELLE MCCOOL & NATALYA (Smackdown)

Natalya is...on...the...ECW...brand...right? Winning team gets a draft pick. They started with a shoving match because no one can get along. After a few minutes of trademark spots, Michelle McCool scored the pin for Team Smackdown.

WINNER: Michelle McCool for Team Smackdown at 1:50. Short divas match. No surprise there. (1/2*)

Draft Pick #3: Women's champion Melina is going to Smackdown. So, another unification match coming up, this time between Melina and Maryse for the two women's titles? We'll see if Maryse is drafted to Raw or ECW.

4 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA (Raw) vs. ECW champion JACK SWAGGER (ECW) -- non-title Draft Match

Seems like a good set-up for Edge to cost Cena the match and give ECW some talent help. Match moved to the floor early on before returning to the ring where Swagger worked over Cena. Swagger nailed a hard clothesline mid-ring, then slapped on a full nelson. Cena broke the Masterlock, then charged at Swagger with shoulder tackles. He then wanted the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Swagger and he connected to Striker's chagrin on commentary. Cena wanted to follow with the FU, but Swagger grabbed the top rope and nailed a boot that spun Cena to the mat. Definitely a "big match feel" as they cut to break with Swagger in control.

Back live, both men were recovering inside the ring after Cena ate the announce table as they cut to break. Cena then nailed a series of body blows, but Swagger executed something that looked like a DDT for a two count. Swagger and Cena took a breath, then Swagger executed a running knee lift for a two count. Cena was selling dead-weight at this point, then he tried a comeback, but Swagger caught him with a powerslam for a two count. Swagger then tried a running Vader Bomb, but Swagger jumped into Cena's arms for the FU. Cena then slapped on the STFU and Swagger tapped in about five seconds.

WINNER: Cena at 11:30. Excellent match. Swagger was given plenty of offense and Cena sold respect for Swagger after their battle. Definitely a good match for Swagger despite the loss. (***)

Draft Pick #4: Raw gets...Matt Hardy. Hardy came out on stage and did the "You Can't See Me" toward Cena, who smirked inside the ring. Hardy was ready to do some damage on Raw.
 
Draft Pick #5: Triple H. Hunter slowly walked out on stage to show off his WWE Title belt toward Cena, who stared back with an "all right, it's on" look. Hunter then pointed toward Cena and told him, "You and me, man." Another potential unification or Cena is going somewhere else. Suddenly, Edge stormed into the ring and attacked Cena from behind. Cena recovered and teased the FU, but Edge escaped. Stare down and it's on at Backlash.


5 -- SANTINO MARELLA (Raw) vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Singh) (Smackdown) -- Draft Match

Santino tried to collect himself with more on the line than he bargained for, but Khali shoved him across the ring. Khali made Santino scream like Carlton Banks on Fresh Prince, then Santino held onto the ropes for dear life. Santino tried to charge Khali, but Khali chopped him down. Khali with a boot on the chest for the pin.

WINNER: Khali at 1:02. An expected squash to get someone over to Smackdown. (n/a)

Draft Pick #6: Smackdown gets...C.M. Punk and his Money in the Bank briefcase. Um...there's currently no champion on Smackdown.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 15 2009, 03:18 pm
...continued from previous post.

6 -- THE MIZ (w/John Morrison) (ECW) vs. KOFI KINGSTON (Raw) -- Draft Match

ECW's Josh Mathews said he had a chance to talk to Miz earlier tonight and he's very concerned about being separated from Morrison. Raw and ECW announcers discussed their "bro-mance." Miz bailed to the outside to escape Kofi's high-flying offense, but Kofi nailed a dropkick through the ropes. Morrison feigned interference, though, allowing Miz to blind-side Kofi and take advantage. Back in the ring, Miz slowed things down with a chinlock on Kofi. Lawler made fun of ECW for not having a draft pick, so Striker announced the supplemental draft on WWE's website on Wednesday.

Match slowed to a crawl, then Kofi fought out of a chinlock. Kofi landed a right hand strike before ducking a clothesline and hitting a leaping clothesline. Kofi started to charge up, then he wanted the boom-boom leg drop, but Miz moved out of the way. Action resumed with a power struggle mid-ring that led to Kofi nailing a legsweep into a boom-boom leg drop for a two count. Kofi called for the Jamaican buzzsaw kick, but Miz ducked. He then covered Kofi for a two count. They went into a nearfall sequence as the match continued to drag a little. Suddenly, Morrison jumped on the ring apron and grabbed Kofi from behind right in front of the ref, who called for the bell. Morrison tried to explain himself to Miz, who wasn't pleased.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston via DQ at 8:53. Just a bit off throughout this one. Chemistry wasn't there and the finish was a weakly-booked conclusion to an off match. (*)

Draft Pick #7: Raw gets another wrestler. This time...The Miz is going to Raw. In the ring, Miz just looked around stunned. Morrison had his hands on his hips in shock. "The bro-mance is over," Mathews declared. Miz and Morrison embraced, then Miz suddenly turned on Morrison with the Reality Check. Oh snap. Well, there's your split. A few years of teaming, then WWE blows money on doing a legit split with a five-second spot. Miz snapped on Morrison then had this evil look in his eyes before brushing that dirt off his shoulder.

7 -- RAW vs. ECW vs. SMACKDOWN 15-man battle royale -- Draft Match (two picks)

Blue vs. Red vs. Black brawl started with brawling all over the ring. Show eliminated Ricky Ortiz first. Oh, Ricky. Suddenly, Show dumped out Burchill, much to Striker's chagrin. Grisham, the ECW turncoat, was eager to point that out. Show then tossed out Chavo. Henry knocked out Shad Gaspar. Show then chunked Primo, who favored his ankle upon taking the fall. R-Truth out too. Show then tossed Kidd. Henry knocked out JTG. Show then grappled Carlito and tossed him. Edge only one left from ECW. Henry then eliminated MVP.

Final four of Henry and Finlay from ECW, Edge from SD, and Show from Raw. Edge then eliminated Finlay. Edge was suddenly cornered by the big men. Edge had the classic look of fear and tried to get the big men to go after each other, but Show gave Edge a chokeslam. Henry and Show battled, then Show lifted up Henry to the apron. They battled on the top rope in a Sumo wrestling match. Show then landed the right hand and Henry fell to the floor. Edge vs. Show now. Oh boy. Show charged Edge, but Edge ducked and Show flew over the top rope to give Edge the win. Post-match: Show snapped on the announce table as Edge gloated in victory.

WINNER: Edge & Smackdown at 5:37. Just a standard battle royal finishing with a play on the Edge-Show feud from WrestleMania. (*1/2)

Draft Pick #8: Kane going to Smackdown. Kane's music hit and he came out on stage, which led to Edge shooting him a curious look. Kane smiled despite the inherent color differences.

Draft Pick #9: Chris Jericho is going to Smackdown. Edge and Jericho exchanged glances as the announcers speculated on a potential alliance. How about Christian going to Smackdown and it's on.


8 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN (Smackdown) vs. CHRISTIAN (ECW)

Christian wanted a top rope move early, but Shelton busted out the cat-like leap to the top for an overhead toss. Christian then rolled to the floor to take a breath. Shelton followed to the outside and rolled Christian back into the ring. Meanwhile, Grisham posed the question of whether Punk could possible cash in the MITB briefcase before the night is over. Shelton missed with a springboard smash attempt and Christian fired up with the crowd behind him. Christian wanted the Killswitch, but Shelton blocked into a backbreaker for a two count. Shelton missed with a corner splash and Christian capitalized with the Killswitch for the pin and the win much to the delight of Striker. He was so excited for this pick.

WINNER: Christian at 3:50. Fine athletic match. Just a little off. Seems like the "athletic guys" are just trying too hard tonight. (*1/2)

Draft Pick #10: Vladimir Kozlov. Oh, gosh. Poor ECW. They wait two hours and 15 minutes to get the Torch's Crashing Star in the month of March. Kozlov then stared down Christian in the ring. Welcome back to WWE, Christian.

9 -- C.M. PUNK (Smackdown) vs. MATT HARDY (Raw)

Pudgy Matt tried an early pin attempt before Punk snapped off a suplex for a one count. Punk landed hard knees to the gut before Hardy caught him in the corner with a hard front slam that caused Punk to land gut-first on the mat. That didn't look good for Punk, who rolled a shoulder to escape a pin. Punk came back with a high knee lift, then a leaping kick for a two count. Hardy landed a corner clothesline, but Punk came back with a running knee in the corner and bulldog for a two count. Punk wanted the G2S, but Hardy blocked and hit the side effect. Suddenly, crowd screamed as Jeff Hardy stormed the ring to attack Matt for a DQ. He beat up Matt, then wanted the Twist of Fate, but Matt rolled out of the way. Jeff then chased Matt to the back. Punk was not happy with the decision. Raw gets another pick.

WINNER: Matt Hardy via DQ at 4:26. Okay match. Finish set up a re-match between Matt and Jeff somewhere down the line if it's not at Backlash since they're not on the same brand. (*1/4)

Draft Pick #11: Maryse is going to Raw. There's your re-separation of women's champions. ... and Michelle McCool from Maryse.

10 -- CHRIS JERICHO (Smackdown) vs. TOMMY DREAMER (ECW) -- Draft Match

Striker said this is the first-time-ever that Jericho and Dreamer have faced off. We'll put that one under the Microscope this week. Grisham took a huge dig at Dreamer that if he's considered a wrestling legend, then so is the Brooklyn Brawler. Wow. Grisham with a full heel turn on ECW now that he's on Smackdown. Dreamer made a comeback and hung Jericho upside down in the corner for the E-C-W basement dropkick. Dreamer wanted to end it, but Jericho blocked into the Walls of Jericho. Dreamer rolled through, though, and scored a close two count. Dreamer followed with a sit-out slam for a close two count. Dreamer wanted to take it up top, but Jericho crotched him. Dreamer fought Jericho off, then he wanted a leaping smash, but Jericho blocked with the codebreaker in mid-air for the win. Striker: "I just don't get it." Welcome to the ECW brand.

WINNER: Jericho at 4:42. Fine match. Just another five-minutes-and-under presentation to allow the announcers to get in their talking points. Good nearfalls in the final few minutes. (*)

Draft Pick #12: Rey Mysterio going to Smackdown. Well, there's your answer to Smackdown's dropping ratings. Get Rey back on Smackdown. Ross said Raw had so much momentum early, but now Smackdown has grabbed the second-half of the show.

11 -- LEGACY (TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES) vs. WWE champion TRIPLE H & SHANE MCMAHON & BATISTA -- handicap match

Let's break it down. Whoever scores the fall for Team McMahon gets Randy Orton one-on-one next week. If Cody or Ted wins, then Cody, Ted, and Orton get the person who is pinned in a three-on-one match next week. There, that was simple. Cody and Ted agreed that Cody would get the start. Team McMahon couldn't decide, so the bell sounded and Shane jumped Cody like a rat on cheese. Shane then did his left hand jabs on Cody and danced circles around him. Suddenly, Batista blind-tagged himself in and told Shane to step off. After DiBiase tagged in, Hunter tagged himself in and wanted to work on Ted. Suddenly, Hunter had a pin on DiBiase and Batista yanked him off the pin. Hunter and Batista had a stare down, then DiBiase snuck up behind Hunter and took his knee out from behind to begin an isolation. Hunter tried a comeback, but DiBiase snapped off a nice dropkick to cut him off.

They hit the top of the hour as Cole re-set the stips as Hunter continued to take a beating. Batista tried to fire up the crowd, then Hunter made the hot tag to Batista, who cleaned house on DiBiase, the legal man. Batista fired up with clotheslines before knocking Cody off the apron. Batista nailed a powerslam then made a cover, but DiBiase broke it up. Shane then clotheslined DiBiase to the floor. DiBiase walked into a spinebuster, then wanted the Batistabomb and he connected. Batista made the cover, but Shane broke it up. Uh-oh. Batista slowly got up and shoved Shane down. Hunter then tagged himself in and stared down Batista. Suddenly, Shane tackled Batista and they brawled to the floor. Meanwhile, Hunter gave DiBiase a Pedigree in center ring and scored the pin for the win with Shane and Batista too late to make the save.

WINNER: Triple H at 7:45. Well, Hunter and Orton get a second chance at their WrestleMania main event next week after the disaster two weeks ago. Match was good for the storyline purposes of teasing dissension in the McMahon Family. DiBiase & Rhodes didn't benefit much, but they weren't even on the Mania card, so whatever. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 15 2009, 03:19 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 4-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31407.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. EVAN BOURNE

Morrison took control early on, but Bourne snapped off an arm drag to ground Morrison on the mat. Bourne then wanted a top rope move, but Morrison cut him off. Bourne ended up on the apron and Morrison smashed him in the face with a knee strike to knock Bourne to the floor. Morrison worked Bourne over on the floor, then took him back in the ring to continue delivering a beating. Morrison put Bourne in a reverse torture rack to squeeze Bourne's lower back for an attempted submission, but Bourne suddenly spun out of the submission into a modified head scissors. That was sweet. Bourne sold the back, then warmed up a dive to the outside, but Morrison ran back into the ring and nailed Bourne with a knee to the gut to cut him off. Cut to break with J-Mo in control.

Back to the action where Morrison had Bourne in a deep headlock. Mathews talked about Miz and Morrison mocking Bourne on recent editions of the Dirt Sheet, which may not be in-tact after Miz randomly turned on J-Mo last night. Morrison cut off Bourne's comeback at 11:00 with a back heel kick, then he strutted around the ring before delivering more offense. Bourne suddenly came back with a series of palm thrusts, but Morrison grounded him with a modified Rings of Saturn. Some new camera shots took us closer to the action from the corner turnbuckle.

Match continued with Bourne escaping the submission mat hold and landing a smashing left-arm clothesline. Bourne bringing some power offense tonight. Bourne snapped off a huracanrana, then a standing dropkick, followed by a spin kick for a two count. The wrestlers collected their breath, then Bourne took Morrison to the corner and nailed a palm thrust. Bourne then jumped onto Morrison's shoulders and kinda did a huracanrana with Morrison helping him out on the flip to the mat. Still looked good. They went into a series of pin exchanges before Bourne took Morrison over the top rope to the floor with a cross-body block.

Both men made it back into the ring, then Bourne nailed a double-knee smash from the top rope. Bourne was slightly perturbed and not being able to finish off J-Mo, so he went for kick strikes. Morrison blocked a third and wanted the Moonlight Drive, but Bourne countered with a knee strike. Bourne then dragged Mo to the corner and wanted the Shooting Star Press, but Mo popped to his feet and nailed Bourne with an enziguiri kick. Morrison then dragged Bourne into position for the Moonlight Drive off the top rope. Morrison then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Morrison in 18:00. Heck ya. That's what I call an ECW TV match featuring the top young talent in the company. I'll have to revise my Draft Analysis column, as I forgot to include Morrison in the Top Tier with Swagger, Bourne, Kidd, and Christian on ECW. Morrison delivered the goods in his first singles action without The Miz by his side in quite some time. Bourne was stout as well, especially busting out some new power offense and strikes. Excellent work. (***3/4)

2 -- KOZLOV vs. POOR DAVID

Kozlov wanted a boot to the throat early on. David suddenly mustered the nerve to head to the second rope and Kozlov shoved him to the mat. Kozlov landed a series of headbutts to the chest, as Striker made reference to Mathews getting a nose-bleed last night. Kozlov with the modified Rock Bottom for the win. Post-match: Kozlov took the mic and cut a promo in Russian. He hates everyone. Something about Russian outlet malls or perhaps dominating everywhere. ECW will be no different, he said.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00. Good, effective use of the squash match formula to give Kozlov a fresh start on ECW. (n/a)

3 -- CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER vs. FINLAY -- Championship Chase match

Deal is that one person gets eliminated, then the two remaining are apparently on WGN this Thursday for the #1 contender match to face Swagger at Backlash. Finlay cleaned house early on, then Christian was knocked to the floor a minute in. Dreamer and Finlay battled in the ring as Horny shouted noises of encouragement to Finlay.

Match continued with Christian trying to re-enter the ring, only to have Finlay bump Christian to the floor. Christian should just chill on the floor for the remainder of the match and let the other two go after each other to eliminate one of them. That obviously wouldn't be the honorable thing to do, though, and Christian is an honorable man, so he re-entered the ring and was quickly knocked to the ropes again. Dreamer then clotheslined himself and Finlay to the outside. Christian sprung to his feet and went up top for a double splash on the floor. Who's going to Superstars? Find out after the break.

They returned from break with Finlay shoving Christian off the top turnbuckle into the guardrail on the floor. Christian all over the floor tonight. Back in the ring, Finlay attacked Dreamer as Horny tried to get Dreamer to give it up. Let me re-write that. Hornswoggle encouraged Dreamer to submit to Finlay's mat-based attack in order to give Finlay the victory this week. Striker was then handed a note that he screwed up. No DQ or count-out tonight. Finlay continued to dominate Dreamer, but Dream wouldn't take a three count. Christian snuck back into the scene as Dreamer made his comeback, then Dreamer smashed Christian into Finlay. Suddenly, there was a double pin, but both men kicked out.

At 11:00, Finlay and Christian collided heads and collapsed to the mat along with Dreamer. Christian pulled himself up, then went up top, only to have Finlay crotch him. Finlay wanted a superplex, but Dream had other ideas. He hung Finlay upside down, then climbed up top and superplexed Christian for a two count. Dreamer re-hung Finlay for the E-C-W basement dropkick and he connected. Dream wanted to end it, but Finlay shoved him to the outside. Christian was prone on the mat, so Finlay approached him, only to have Christian pull out a small package for a close two count. Finlay popped up for the rolling hills, but Christian slipped to the floor. Dreamer then surprised Finlay with a DDT, but Fin kicked out.

Christian tried to sneak attack Dreamer with the Killswitch, but Dreamer blocked and hung Christian in the ropes. Dreamer tossed Finlay into Christian, then rolled up Finlay for a two count. Striker said Christian should just chill in ropes since he was tied up rather than do anything. Finlay then grappled Dreamer and gave him the Celtic Cross mid-ring for the pin and the win. Dreamer is out. Finlay vs. Christian on Superstars. Winner gets Swagger at Backlash.

WINNER: Finlay at 15:00 to eliminate Dreamer. Excellent main event. They created a real sense of peril for all three men to see who would eventually get the fall in the match. Dreamer had enough offense to stay credible and pick up his Quest to the ECW Title storyline with the storyline of him being "that close" in the Championship Chase. Excellent piece of booking to conclude this week's show. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 17 2009, 01:24 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 4-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31447.shtml)
Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. MATT HARDY

Hardy ran into a clothesline early on. Hardy told Grisham before the show that he doesn't anticipate being intimidated by Taker tonight. Action moved to the floor early on where Hardy took a hard whip into the guardrail on the floor. Back in the ring, Taker clotheslined Hardy back to the floor. Stay down, Black Cloud! Cut to break.

Back to WGN where Taker choked Hardy in the corner, then chased the ref away. Taker wanted the chokeslam, but Hardy blocked with a neckbreaker for a two count. Ross pointed out it was a smart move by Hardy to work on the neck to pick up the WrestleMania spot where Taker cracked his head on the floor against Michaels. Taker then came back with a running clothesline in the corner, followed by a second one. Hardy fed into snake eyes and took the big boot before Taker dropped a leg for a two count. Taker teased the chokeslam, but Hardy wisely ducked to the outside. Fans booed that move.

Hardy took a powder, then grabbed a steel chair. Hardy dropped it on the floor, then waited until ten to tease getting back in the ring. But, instead, Hardy just waited on the outside to be counted out. Suddenly, Jeff Hardy stormed ringside and attacked Hardy on the floor. Jeff slammed Matt into the guardrail, then Matt tried to run back into the ring, but Taker was waiting for him. Taker grappled Matt and down he went with the chokeslam. Ouch. Jeff raised his hand with a mini-victory and Taker stared down at his prey.

WINNER: Taker via count-out in 10:00. Fine singles match to start Superstars. Nice build to Jeff vs. Matt at Backlash and a good return match for Taker to look dominant. Good start to the show. (*1/2)

2 -- FINLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. CHRISTIAN -- #1 Contender match to ECW Title

A little feeling out process early on, then Finlay knocked Christian to the outside and rammed him into the ring apron. Back in the ring, Finlay applied a headlock. Christian escaped, then they had a series of standing exchanges. No one could sustain offense early on, then Christian pulled out the Killswitch to win the struggle. He slowly rolled Finlay over and made the cover for the clean pin and the win.

Post-match: Christian did the belt-around-the-waist motion toward Finlay, who came to his feet and extended a hand to Christian. They shook, then Christian clapped it up for Finlay. Swagger vs. Christian signed for Backlash for the ECW Title.

WINNER: Christian in 5:00. Quick TV match, but a nice mid-match struggle for offensive control. Looking forward to the build-up to Backlash on next week's ECW TV. (*)

3 -- SHANE MCMAHON vs. CODY RHODES

Shane bobbed and weaved with right hand blows, so Cody went into a fighting stance to take more blows to the mid-section. Cody finally got a kick in to the gut to knock down the non-wrestler. Shane came back with a clothesline, though. He followed with an armdrag, of all things. Cody then ducked out of the ring to take a breather while selling his left arm. SuperShane then followed on the outside and rammed him into the ringpost. Cole tried to cover for Shane having all this offense that he's so driven by revenge that he's punishing Cody with an aggressive attack. Yeah, okay.

Back in the ring, Shane went back to work on the left shoulder and Cody rolled to the floor again. Shane then rolled to the outside and ran off the ringsteps with a dive onto Cody. Back in the ring, Cody caught Shane off guard with a bump off the apron into the guardrail. Cut to break with Cody now in control.

Back from break, Cody went to work on Shane's back, including a Camel Clutch. Shane tried not to submit, then he wanted the John Cena power-lift into the electric chair and he rammed Cody into the turnbuckle. Pretty good ring presence for Shane, who then took an elbow to the gut and bulldog from the second rope for a two count. Cody then went to the floor and grabbed a steel chair. Heel theme of the night, apparently. Ref yanked the chair away, so Cody went back to the punches. Cody played too cocky, though, so Shane rapid-fire punched him before stomping a mudhole in him. Ref reprimanded Shane, who then walked into a toss through the ropes hard to the floor.

Fans implored SuperShane to recover, then Shane jabbed him in the gut with a steel chair to earn a DQ. Shane then took the chair to Cody's back. He wanted a chair shot to the head and he connected to the side of Cody's head. Not a clean blow, but a stupid move with the chair shot to the head. Just stupid. And annoying. Shane then wanted the coast-to-coast dropkick with the trashcan on Cody and he connected. Cole effectively reinforced the point (did I just write that?) that if Shane gets his team DQ'ed at Backlash, then Randy Orton wins the WWE Title.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes in 12:00. Actually not that bad of a match. They also effectively played up the storyline for the main event title match at Backlash. Of course, the chair shot to the head was just plain stupid in 2009, but what are you going to do? It's SuperShane, in all his glory. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 18 2009, 10:16 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31451.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- HOMICIDE (w/Hernandez) vs. CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley) vs. NAITO (w/Yujiro, Kiyoshi, and Sheik Abdul Bashir)

Sabin proved his brain power early on by giving Homicide a double-foot dropkick, then tricking Naito into running into a running clothesline. Homicide recovered, then flew through the ropes with a cannonball dive onto No Limit. Tenay said it was a good move, but it could cost him the match. What exactly is at stake? That's the problem with these undercard TV matches - there's nothing on the line. No money, no advancement in X Division rankings, no endorsement. Tenay started plugging the Lockdown PPV pre-show, including Bonaduce vs. Young, as the wrestlers exchanged power moves and pin attempts. Sabin was trying to superplex Naito, but Homicide shoved Sabin to the floor and delivered a top rope Ace Crusher to Naito. He made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Homicide in 6:00. Nice to see Homicide actually pick up a victory. Match was fine for the moment in time it existed. Wasn't the focal point of the broadcast for six minutes, but they delivered some eye-catching athleticism to hold viewer interest for Tenay and West talking about everything else. (*1/2)

2 -- TNA Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG & Raisha Saeed & TAYLOR WILDE vs. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE)

On the way to the ring, Saeed was selling the effects of getting her head trimmed by the Beautiful People last week. Beautiful People came out, then a brawl broke out on the outside. Apparently this was a three-way match, although TNA's website listed it as a tag team match. Kong was left alone with Angelina in the ring. The champ delivered the implant buster on Love for the pin and the win. Very quick match.

Post-match: Kong grabbed the scissors and wanted to trim Angelina's hair, but Beautiful People jumped her from behind. They then launched Raisha head-first into the women's title, then gave Taylor a similar fate. Kong then ran over the BPs, but Angelina gave her a thumb to the eye, followed by a belt shot to the face. Kong sold that pretty well. Angelina then picked up the scissors and trimmed a sizable chunk of Kong's hair. She wasn't satisfied, so she trimmed some more before holding up the hair proudly.

WINNERS: Team Kong in 2:00. All about the post-match with Angelina getting the final word despite taking the loss. Gives Kong an incentive to take out Angelina at the PPV, creating an actual storyline focused on the Knockouts Title after the division was seemingly jogging on the treadmill for a few months. (n/a)

3 -- ODB & CODY DEANER vs. ABYSS & DAFFNEY

Announcers talked about the mystery partner deal, Jeff riding the fence on joining Mafia or sticking to younger stars, and other topics while Knockouts battled in the ring. Abyss then tagged in and ODB started backing down. Rules mean Cody had to tag in. They milked this for a while, then Cody reluctantly tagged in and put on some false bravado. Deaner fired himself up for a right hand that Abyss no-sold. Deaner fired himself up again, then landed a second blow to the chest that Abyss no-sold again. Cody decided to turn his trucker hat around, but Abyss slapped his hat away and landed a chop to the chest. Cody tried to tag ODB out of desperation, but Abyss yanked him back into the Black Hole Slam for the win.

Post-match: Matt Morgan jumped Abyss from behind. Daffney high-tailed it. Morgan played to the crowd, then Abyss fired off a round of right hand blows until Morgan ducked a clothesline and nailed the big bicycle kick. Morgan was good for the night. Morgan vs. Abyss in a Chamber of Blood deal at the PPV.

WINNERS: Abyss & Daffney in 4:00. They milked the Deaner Deal all they could to get four minutes out of that. Fine, then Morgan got the very abrupt one-up to set up their PPV match. Rushed post-match that no one will remember until they wrestle on Sunday.

4 -- CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. KURT ANGLE

Angle ran over Daniels early on, then Daniels pushed Angle to the floor. Daniels nailed a split-legged moonsault on the floor, then played to the crowd. Tenay hyped the Lethal Lockdown advantage, which was on the line here. Angle then blocked a move near the ropes and gave Daniels an overhead suplex to the floor. Daniels sold the back as they cut to break.

Back from break, Angle was in control mid-ring. Crowd was behind Daniels, who tried to make a comeback, but they ran into each other with double clotheslines. Daniels made his comeback and ripped off his one-sleeve shirt thingie. He then ran over Angle with a clothesline for a close two count. Angle tried to come back with an Angle Slam, but Daniels countered and hit an enziguiri kick. Daniels wanted the Best Moonsault Ever, but Angle ducked and executed three German suplexes for a two count. Angle followed with an Angle Slam, then slapped on the ankelock, but Daniels broke free. Daniels then rolled up Angle and trapped his shoulders to the mat for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Christopher Daniels in 11:00. Good TV match. TNA really played this up well with the post-match to give the heels the one-man advantage throughout the Lethal Lockdown match, as should have been the case. Great to see Daniels back on TV without a silly gimmick, but as a straight wrestler. Looking forward to seeing how TNA re-incorporates him into storylines long-term. (***)

And yes...that adds up to 23 minutes of wrestling: 12 minutes for the first three matches and 11 for the final match...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 19 2009, 10:01 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31482.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JEFF HARDY vs. THE BIG SHOW

Hardy came out first. The announcers talked about Jeff taking one chance too many last week as clips aired of his loss to Matt Hardy last week. They showed Grisham and Ross on camera during Show's trip to the ring. Ross said he's now property of Raw so this will be one of the last chances they have to see him. Why is he on this show at all if he was drafted to Raw? Not even addressed. Show outpowered Hardy in the early minutes with his signature methodical offense including headbutts and a legdrop for a nearfall. Show got cocky and let out a big smile as he moved in for a big boot. Hardy moved and Show straddled he top rope. When Hardy charged at Show, though, Show side-stepped him and threw him to the floor at 6:00. They cut to a break.

Back from the break, Show held Hardy on the mat with a double grip nerve hold. Show set up a corner swing splash at 11:00. Hardy moved and Show crashed on the mat. Ross said the door has been cracked open. Jeff hit a DDT. Matt ran out and distracted Jeff. Jeff launched off of Show's back and dove onto brother Matt at ringside. Jeff rolled into the ring and flipped at Show. Show caught caught him, then KO'd him with his big punch for the win. Grisham and Ross agreed Matt's distraction was a huge factor in the finish.

WINNER: Show in 12:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4

2 -- GAIL KIM vs. MARYSE

Ross and Grisham said they're looking forward to Melina's ring entrances. Maryse tossed a charging Kim through the ropes to the floor early. She continued to dominate, including rubbing Kim's face into hte mat and then attempting a camel clutch. Kim powered out of it and hit a leg sweep for a one count. Kim made a full comeback and hit a few clotheslines. Kim countered a DDT attempt by Maryse with her finisher for the win.

WINNER: Kim in 3:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Kim is already appearing to be the class of the division. Her crisp moves and self-assured athleticism is unmatched in the U.S. women's scene right now.

3 -- R-TRUTH vs. JOHN MORRISON

Truth stood mid-ring and asked Tennessee, "What's up?" They aired a clip of Miz turning on Morrison on Raw. At 3:00 Truth hit a scissors kick for a near fall. Morrison ducked a spin wheel kick, but Truth punched hm in he corner. Morrison shoved him to the mat and hit the Moonlight Drive for the win. Ross said 2009 is going to be a massive year for Morrison. He said we won't see him lose many times on Smackdown.

WINNER: Morrison in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *

4 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. UNDERTAKER

Shelton stood in the ring without a ring intro. Taker made his full ring intro. Shelton flipped out of an Undertaker vertical suplex and hit a neckbreaker as they cut to a break. Grisham asked if Shelton was about to score the biggest win of his career.

Shelton remained on offense after the break. Ross said eventually Ross has to get on a roll. "We talk about his physical gifts. At some point that's going to stop buying you groceries." Good line from Ross. It needed to be said, too. Taker made a comeback at 8:00 with some punches. Shelton caught a charging Taker with a boot, but when he dove at Taker, Taker caught him by the throat and went for a chokeslam. Shelton countered with a DDT. Shelton scored a two count with a back suplex. Shelton went for an apparent Tombstone on Taker, but Taker reversed it, hit the move, and scored the three count.

WINNER: Undertaker in 10:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Good match.

5 -- MVP vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Ross said Dolph introduced himself to him three times already today. Ross said he's only seen him a few times in the ring, but each time he's been impressed. He says his colleagues accuse him of being a narcissist. Ziggler dominated the early minutes. At 4:00 MVP hit a kneelift to drop Ziggler. He dropped a showy elbow and scored a two count. Ziggler shot MVP into the middle turnbuckle and held onto MVP's tights to score a three count. After his win, Ziggler grabbed the mic and said, "My name is Dolph Ziggler!"

WINNER: Ziggler in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4 -- Solid five minute TV match.

6 -- BATISTA vs. TED DIBIASE

The match began 47 minutes into the final hour. No Cody Rhodes with DiBiase for this match. Batista controlled early, but DiBiase attacked Batista's legs to turn momentum at 2:00 as they cut to a break.

DiBiase continued to concentrate on Batista's leg, including a chop block at ringside. DiBiase hit a double stomp on Batista's chest leaping off the second rope. He went back to the second rope and double stomped his back. He then scored a two count. Batista surprised DiBiase with a small package attempt. Ross said it's not a typical move for Batista, but he just did it. Batista made a comeback with punches, but DiBiase used a drop toe hold to take him to the mat. He applied a leglock on the mat, then set up a potential figure-four. Batista kicked DBiase off of him and hit a spinebuster. He followed with a backdrop and clothesline. DiBiase caught a charging Batista with a boot. Batista countered with a spear. He then went into his finishing sequence including the Batista Bomb for the clean pin.

WINNER: Batista in 11:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Ted DiBiase showed more in that match than anything he's done on Raw. He took Batista to another level just in terms of the actual chain wrestling and got a smooth match out of the often clunky Batista, more impressive since it's Batista's return from injury. It wasn't a great match by any means, but DiBiase looked like he was as comfortable as a ten year ring general out there. And he had a presence about him, too, that doesn't come across when he's standing next to Orton and Rhodes on Raw.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 20 2009, 01:18 pm
TNA Lethal Lockdown PPV Results: 4-19-09

Real-time results courtesy of PWTorch.com via Caldwell's ongoing report.

Pre-show match:
A -- ERIC YOUNG vs. DANNY BONADUCE
WINNER: Young at 3:33. It was what it was. There's no other way to put it. Not quite embarrassing, and perhaps something to get on TMZ or a Hollywood news TV show, but not a flattering portrayal of TNA or pro wrestling. (n/a)

1 -- X Division champion SUICIDE vs. JAY LETHAL vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. KIYOSHI vs. SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR -- X DIVISION TITLE MATCH -- ULTIMATE XSCAPE MATCH
WINNER: Suicide at 11:40. Memorable conclusion to the opening match. Final exchange between Bashir and Suicide could have been stretched into an actual X Division Title match on a non-gimmick-PPV event. Good way to start the PPV. (**1/2)

2 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. ODB (w/Cody Deaner) vs. SOJO BOLT vs. DAFFNEY -- Queen of the Cage match
WINNER: ODB at 6:06. Okay action. It's become obvious three matches in that TNA running a mid-sized building brought a very "corporate/family-friendly" crowd without that "rough" Philadelphia atmosphere that TNA was trying to sell the PPV on.

3 -- NJPW Jr. tag team champions MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. LAX (HOMICIDE & HERNANDEZ) vs. NO LIMIT (NAITO & YUJIRO) -- New Japan Jr. tag team title match
WINNERS: Guns at 11:50 to retain the belts. Just a lot of spots before the finishing sequence captured the crowd for the finish. Typical "X-Division style" fare that won't be remembered on Monday because so much is thrown against the wall. (**1/2)

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. ABYSS -- Doomsday Chamber of Blood match
WINNER: Morgan at 12:45. Another rinse, repeat gimmick weapon match between Abyss and Morgan. Crowd just wasn't into it and the wrestlers didn't give themselves a chance to involve the crowd by just going into spot sequences without listening to the crowd. TNA insulting the intelligence of the audience by having the announcers shockingly declare it was Stevie Richards playing therapist all along was pretty rough. (*1/4)

5 -- TNA Knockouts champion AWESOME KONG vs. ANGELINA LOVE (w/Velvet Sky) vs. TAYLOR WILDE -- TNA Knockouts title match
WINNER: Angelina Love at 7:00 to capture the Knockouts Title. Love gets awarded with the title after her work over the past year. Although, it doesn't seem like she will remember how it happened. (*1/4)

6 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. New Japan tag team champions TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) -- Title vs. Title match -- Philadelphia Street Fight
WINNERS: Team 3D at 14:59 to capture the TNA tag titles. Good gimmick cage match with a smartly-laid-out finish. Easily the best match on the card thus far. 3D winning the belts was inevitable and could set up a program between Roode and Storm if TNA wants to split them up. (***1/2)

7 -- TEAM ANGLE (KURT ANGLE & KEVIN NASH & SCOTT STEINER & BOOKE T) vs. TEAM JARRETT (JEFF JARRETT & CHRISTOPHER DANIELS & A.J. STYLES & SAMOA JOE) -- Lethal Lockdown cage match
WINNER: Team Jarrett at 22:59. Jarrett retained his alliance with the younger stars, but the younger stars were definitely not the focal point of the match other than Styles trying to do crazy spots because he's A.J. Styles. Match was fine, as they worked around the limitations of the older stars, and built up the "babyfaces" to overcome the man disadvantage. (***)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MICK FOLEY -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Mick Foley at 15:53 to capture the TNA World Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 21 2009, 01:48 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31528.shtml) Condnesed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BATISTA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Bell sounded, Batista stared at him with his hands on his hips, then Batista met Chavo with a boot to the gut and a Batistabomb. Batista made the cover for the easy win. Lawler said he didn't even get a chance to start his stopwatch. Yeah, I barely did too. Post-match: Chavo took the mic and complained to Vickie that he won't let this ever happen again. Chavo gasped for breath and Batista returned to the ring. Chavo saw Batista out of the corner of his eye and said he really was ready, but Batista grappled him for another Batistabomb to put an exclamation mark on his victory.

WINNER: Batista at 0:16. That was quick. Just a "tune-up" victory for Batista to continue building him back up in the eyes of the audience following his absence from injury. Not much emphasis on the Backlash title match he's involved in, but that will probably come later. (n/a)

2 -- KANE vs. C.M. PUNK

Kane dominated early and scored a nearfall following a chokeslam. Punk then came back with a high knee, but Kane blocked a bulldog. Punk then came off the second rope with a clothesline for a two count. Kane tried to come back with another chokeslam attempt, but Punk blocked and small packaged Kane into a three count for the win.

WINNER: Punk at 2:04. Short TV match. Two matches have featured three Smackdown wrestlers. Two future matches on the show will also feature two Smackdown wrestlers. (*)

3 -- Women's champion MELINA vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Santino and Rosa Mendes) -- non-title match

Beth went for the trademark power offense/submission holds early on, but Melina made a comeback. She was in position to win, but Rosa got on the apron to try to run interference at 3:00, but Melina knocked her to the floor. Beth tried to sneak up behind her to take advantage, but Melina countered with a victory roll-up for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Melina at 3:22. Decent divas match. Enough time to feel somewhat complete considering how many of these end so quickly. (*1/2)

4 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match

Jericho took control early, then he berated Cena. "This is your show, right?!" Jericho shouted down at Cena. Jericho cut off a brief comeback with a clothesline, then they had a mid-ring exchange of rights and lefts. Crowd had a mixed "yeah" for Cena's punches and "yeah" for Jericho's punches. Cena then set up Jericho for the Five Knuckle Shuffle (loud boos) and he delivered. Cena wanted the FU, but Jericho countered with a DDT. The action moved to the ring apron and Cena wanted an FU off the apron, but Jericho blocked and chucked Cena off the apron into the ring steps. Cut to break.

Back from break, Cena kicked out of a pin attempt from Jericho. Jericho played to the crowd, then he tried the Walls of Jericho, but Cena escaped. Jericho then blocked a comeback with a lift-up slam for a nearfall. They battled up top and Cena tried a top-rope FU, but Jericho countered with an electric chair to put both men on the mat. They battled mid-ring, then Cena power-lifted Jericho into position for the FU, but Jericho flipped out and grappled Cena for the codebreaker. Great sequence. Jericho couldn't make an immediate cover, though, then he finally did and Cena kicked out at two.

Both men regrouped, then Jericho ran into the FU from Cena. Cena couldn't make a cover, though. He finally did and Jericho kicked out. Cena then went to the corner and went up top. Cena tried the top rope guillotine smash, but Jericho countered and slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Jericho screamed at Cena to tap out, but Cena refused. Cena then power-lifted into a roll-up that he transitioned into the STFU mid-ring. Jericho tried to fight the hold like a swimmer stuck in the water, then Cena pulled him back to his feet where Jericho smashed him with an enziguiri kick. Nice counter.

At 15:00, Jericho pulled Cena to the corner. He tried a top rope move, but Cena blocked. They had a standing exchange of right hand blows before Cena attempted a superplex. Suddenly, Edge showed up and shoved Cena and Jericho down. Edge then snapped on Cena mid-ring and blasted him with right hands. Cole interjected that Edge saw that Cena was vulnerable, so he attacked. Nice line. Edge then readied Cena and speared him in mid-air. Cena took the blow, then Edge stared down at Cena in disgust.

Edge grabbed two chairs from ringside, then he re-entered the ring to set up Cena for the conchairto. No one stopped Edge, who delivered a smashing blow. Really, Edge nailed the other chair instead of Cena's head, but the effect was really good. Edge then took the mic and breathed heavily. He then declared himself the winner in the Last Man Standing match at Backlash after counting to ten with Cena still out cold on the mat. Cole solemnly stated Edge could be new World champ at the PPV.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 16:30. Really good TV match. No surprise, as Cena and Jericho have always had good chemistry in the ring on a big stage for a singles match. Edge's interference and post-match promo was very well done to promote the Backlash title match. It seemed to be lost in the shuffle of the brand split and Team McMahon vs. Legacy, but Cena, Jericho, and Edge brought the focal point back to Cena vs. Edge with this segment. Well done. (***1/2)

5 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. BIG SHOW -- non-title match

Show quickly took advantage of the size advantage by knocking Rey down to the mat. Rey then took back control with a dropkick to the knees. He tried to dial up 619 on Show, but Show grabbed his legs and KO'ed him with a giant right. Show then put two hands on Rey's chest for the pin and the win. Rey sold that he was totally knocked out as Show looked down at Rey with a non-reactionary look. Medics checked on Rey as Show left the ring kinda muttering to himself. Rey showed some life to close the segment.

WINNER: Show at 1:43. Squash to re-establish Show now that he's officially moved from Smackdown to Raw. Seems likely that Show will factor into the WWE Title picture at some point soon. (*)

6 -- WWE champion TRIPLE H vs. RANDY ORTON -- No DQ non-title match

Hunter and Orton's "mulligan" started hot with Hunter and Orton exchanging right hands in the corner. Action spilled to the floor where Hunter ripped away the announce table cover. Orton then smashed Hunter head-first into the table. The action returned to the ring, then Hunter dumped Orton over the top rope to the floor. Hunter tried to follow out, but Orton reached up and smashed him with a trashcan. Cut to break with Orton in control.

Back from break, Orton and Hunter exchanged control with Hunter taking a steel step shot to the head, then Hunter coming back with a spinebuster into the steps. Hunter missed with a chairshot to the head, then Hunter reeled off a round of right hand blows that knocked Orton down. Hunter measured Orton for a trashcan shot, but Orton blocked with a boot to the face. Orton waited too long to capitalize, then Hunter dropped a charging Orton with a spinebuster into the can. Hunter continued to attack the back, this time with a steel chair shot to the back. Hunter measured Orton for a chair shot to the head, but Orton kicked Hunter in the gut and DDT'ed him into the chair.

At the top of the hour, Hunter came back with a chair shot to the knee after he wrapped Orton's leg around the ringpost. Back in center ring, Hunter focused his attack on Orton's left knee. He then slapped on Ric Flair's figure four in center ring as the crowd whoo'ed. Hunter wanted to take Orton's knee out for good, but Cody and Ted stormed the ring to attack Hunter. Shane then ran down to the ring to make the save, but Ted yanked the top rope down and Shane ate the floor. Hunter then tried to fight by himself as Orton recovered. Suddenly, Batista stormed the ring and cleaned house. He speared Orton, then Cody raked his eye. Shane snuck back into the ring, then Batista accidentally speared Shane. Hunter asked him what's up and Batista said it was an accident. Action totally broke down and they were back to Orton and Hunter. Hunter stumbled over to Orton, who suddenly snapped to attention like a snake and dropped Hunter with an RKO. Orton made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Orton sold the knee work and stumbled out of the ring with help from DiBiase and Rhodes. Batista then slipped back into the ring to check on Hunter. Batista then helped Shane to his feet and stared down at Legacy with hands on hips in disgust. Hunter leaned down on the middle rope and stared back at Orton for one last three-on-three stand-off to set up Backlash.

WINNER: Orton at 17:32. Excellent match in the sense that they used the props and gimmickry to their advantage to set-up the six-man tag match with Triple H in jeopardy of losing the title at Backlash. Good piece of TV to conclude Raw's hype for Backlash. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 22 2009, 02:27 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 4-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31554.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- HORNSWOGGLE (w/Finlay) vs. NATALYA (w/Tyson Kidd)

The match started with a mini-feeling-out process. Haha. Crowd anticipated some action and Horny slapped Natalya to incite her. Tyson then tried to hop on the apron to run interference, but Finlay yanked him down to the floor. Suddenly, Hornswoggle rolled up Natalya from behind for the win to go out in style. Afterward, Finlay and Hornswoggle led a few kids in the heel-to-toe tap to send 'em home happy to commercial.

WINNER: Hornswoggle in 1:30. Fun little deal. Just a fine send-off for Hornswoggle, who will hopefully find a role on Raw tormenting some heels in an undercard storyline to fill time in between main event programs on TV. He could still be useful even if he's not with Finlay. (n/a)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Burchill and Lea were in their home country, but no love from the crowd. Katie distracted Bourne early on, then Bourne tried a head scissors, but Burchill smashed him with a backbreaker across his knee.

Burchill continued to dominate the smaller Bourne before Bourne with strikes before nailing an overhead toss for a two count. Back to the mat where Burchill wrapped up Bourne with a rear attack. Crowd started to get ancy as Burchill continued to slow down the pace until Bourne fought back with blows to the gut, then a knock-down kick strike. Burchill tried to grapple Bourne, but Bourne flipped him to the floor. He then measured Burchill for a dive to the outside, but Burchill ran back into the ring. Bourne made the proper adjustment and rolled him up for a two count.

They reset the action before Burchill caught Bourne out of the corner for a Samoa Joe/E. Honda front slam. Bourne went up top, but Burchill cut him off. He tried a power move on Bourne, but Bourne countered with a Jack Evans reverse rana. Burchill wasn't quite sure how to take the hold, though. Bourne then dragged Burchill to the corner and nailed the majestic Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win. "Beautiful," Mathews said on a slow-mo replay post-match. "The elevation is sick."

WINNER: Bourne in 10:00. I try to be fair to the wrestlers working hard in the ring, but I just don't see much with Burchill. It's frustrating because he has the size to be a good performer, but he currently doesn't have the ability to involve the crowd in a match. His facial expressions are non-existent and he just doesn't have "it" as a performer in the ring with the current William Regal lite gimmick. Perhaps he could find it with a different gimmick (yes, again) and a haircut to allow his facial expressions to tell a story in the ring. Bourne was good bumping around for Burchill before picking up the victory. (*1/2)

3 -- KOZLOV vs. FRANKIE SLOAN

Bell rang and Kozlov went for the headbutt offensive attack. Kozlov gave him a modified Rock Bottom for the easy win.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00. Just a squash to continue re-establishing Kozlov. If Christian wins the ECW Title on Sunday, we know who his first feud will be against.

The final 15 minutes of the show was Swagger/Christian and the contract signing.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 24 2009, 12:58 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 4-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31601.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO & C.M. PUNK vs. BIG SHOW & KANE (taped 4/20)

Match quickly moved to the floor in the opening minute after Rey cleared out Kane. Rey then hit a running splash off the apron leading to the first break.

They returned from break with Kane working on Punk. Rey and Punk looking very pink tonight. The lighting in the arena seemed to have a pinkish hue as well. Kane then ran over Rey, who took a tag, and the heel giants began working on little Rey Rey. Show dropped a big leg on Rey, but Rey kicked out. Kane went to work on Rey as Cole reminded us of the psychological torture Kane put Rey through last year. He should have added the WWE Universe experienced psychological torture watching it unfold. Cole plugged Cena on Stars again.

Rey came back with an enziguiri kick and Punk took the hot tag for a springboard splash on Kane. Punk fired off kicks, ducked a big boot, and nailed a spinning back fist. Punk landed consecutive high knees in the corner, then he went up top, but Show knocked him off the top. Clunky spill. Kane then followed with a chokeslam on Punk and that's it.

WINNERS: Show & Kane in 10:00. Fine set-up for Kane vs. Punk at Backlash, although that match isn't going to sell PPVs. Focus was more on establishing the giants in WWE. Kane is upset about Punk one-upping him on Raw last week and Show is upset about everything. (*1/2)

2 -- FINLAY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. TYSON KIDD & NATALYA

Finlay and Kidd started things off. Hornswoggle then took a tag and put Kidd in a flying head scissors. Kidd was rather upset, so he bailed to the outside for a breather. Hornswoggle then juggled some tennis balls and chucked them at Kidd, who gave chase on the floor. Finlay made sure Kidd took a beating as balls bounced back into the ring. Suddenly, Finlay smashed Kidd with a Shillelagh behind the ref's back and Horny came off the top with a tadpole splash on Kidd for the win.

WINNER: Finlay & Hornswoggle in 2:00. Well, there's your ECW showcase match. Jus a chance to make fools of Kidd and Natalya, which hopefully won't become a regular theme on ECW TV going forward. (n/a)

3 -- EDGE vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Kofi took the early advantage and the announcers went the route of saying Edge might be looking ahead to Backlash and not focused on Kofi tonight. Kofi nailed Edge out of the corner with an uppercut, then settled into an armbar on Edge. Edge broke the hold, though, with a forearm smash to the face to begin a brief attack. Kofi went back to the left shoulder, then he went up top, but Edge crotched him and Kofi fell to the apron. Cut to break with Kofi in jeopardy.

Edge was in control out of the break as Grisham told us some stories about Edge being a walking scandal. Ross said Kofi's star is growing and he'll be a major player soon enough. Kofi then came back with a leaping frog splash/cross-body block on Edge for a two count. Ross referenced it as a Ricky Steamboat-like splash to plug Steamboat vs. Chris Jericho on Sunday. Kofi and Edge recovered to their feet and Kofi nailed a forward-rolling Russian legsweep for a two count. Edge came to his feet first and he wanted the Spear, but Kofi moved and nailed the Jamaican Buzzsaw kick. Edge rolled to the floor, though, and Kofi was forced to follow him to the outside.

Back in the ring, Kofi made a cover, but Edge grabbed the bottom rope. Edge giving Kofi a lot tonight. Edge tried to surprise Kofi with a roll-up, but Kofi slipped out. Kofi then faked out Edge, who blocked a sunset flip. He wanted a Sharpshooter, but Kofi countered with a roll-up for a two count. Both men came to their feet and Edge surprised Kofi with an emphatic spear for the pin and the win. Post-match: Ross plugged an ol' time brawl between Cena and Edge on Sunday. Grisham gave us the final word for tonight.

WINNER: Edge in 13:00. Really nice TV match. Kofi was given plenty of offense to take a loss, but still come out looking good. Edge, as usual, was strong in the ring as the heel setting the tone for the match. If WWE can continue to feature 10-15 minute TV matches on Superstars featuring top stars, the show will provide a good hour of wrestling TV during the week that won't blow anyone away, but make sure viewers get their hour's worth. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 25 2009, 10:01 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31604.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) BEER MONEY INC. vs. LETHAL CONSEQUENCES

Storm starts things off with a couple of strikes to Lethal, but gets dropped by a Hurricanrana and a Leg Lariat. Creed tags in, and after a couple of charges in the corner hits a Slingshot Bulldog for two. Storm catches him with a right hand and tags in Roode; Creed keeps the advantage over him till Storm nails the illegal kick from the outside. Lethal doesn't like that any, so he takes Storm down with a (almost blown) Suicide Dive. Creed tosses Roode to the outside and follows him out with an Inverted Sommersault Plancha. Creed brings Roode back in and nails a Neck Breaker for two, but misses a blind tag. Storm comes in with a Back Stabber, and Beer Money take control. They trade a couple of quick tags and the Beer Money Suplex before Storm decides to work the Chin Lock. Creed powers out, but both he and Storm look for Cross Body Blocks at the same time. They both tag out, and Lethal comes in with extra momentum. He hits some chops before Roode Back Body Drops him out to the apron. He comes in with a Missile Dropkick, which Storm tries to break up at two, only to accidentally nail Roode. They hit a cool double-team Suplex/Cross Body Block on Storm, but The Lethal Combo on Roode only gets two. Beer Money respond with their double-team Suplex/Neck Breaker, which is apparently now called the "DUI". That's enough for the win.

WINNER: Beer Money in 5 minutes. This was about as good a showcase for the teams as one could hope for in a five minute match. *

(2) SOJOURER BOLT vs. TAYLOR WILDE

Maybe I was unfair earlier when I said that they weren't taking the division seriously. There's a ladder set up in the ring, which both women immediately try to climb. Wilde knocks Bolt off, so Bolt shoves down the ladder. Wilde lands on her feet, but Bolt knocks her down anyway. She sets up the ladder in the corner, but when she tries to whip Wilde into it Wilde reverses and she ends up eating the steel herself. Wilde sets up the ladder and tries to climb, but Bolt cuts her off with a big Belly-to-Back Suplex. Bolt tries to climb next, but gets cut off herself by an Electric Chair Drop. Both women crawl to the ladder, with Bolt pulling out some brass knuckles on the way. They brawl on the top of the ladder, but it's really hard to win a brawl against someone wearing brass knuckles. Bolt connects and grabs the contract for the win.

WINNER: SOJOURNER BOLT in 3 minutes. I should have stood by my first appraisal of their opinion of the women's division. DUD.

(3) AJ STYLES vs. KEVIN NASH (w/JENNA MORASCA)

I think they remixed AJ's music. Nash lays in with some knees to start. He hits a couple of elbows and chokes AJ in the corner. He goes for an Irish Whip, but AJ comes back with a dropkick to the knee and a jump-kick. With Nash down, AJ starts pounding on his left knee. AJ goes to the top rope, but Nash meets him with an elbow that knocks him all the way out to the floor. Nash follows AJ out with some offense, then rolls him back in for a Side Slam for two. A Decapitator Clothesline gets two more. AJ fights back from his knees, rolls out to the apron, and comes back in with the patented Flying Forearm. As Nash tries to get to his feet AJ dropkicks him in the face. Nash gets up and goozles AJ, but Styles slips out and hits a Pele for two. He tries to finish Nash off with—I think that was a Springboard 450 Splash! I'm not sure why the crowd isn't more impressed. Nash rolls out of the way. Booker T and Sharmell run down to the ring. Sharmell distracts the ref on the apron while Booker nails AJ with an Axe Kick. Nash is about to hit a Jackknife, but referee Rudy Charles lets him know that he saw the Axe Kick. He calls for the DQ.

WINNER: AJ Styles by DQ in 6 minutes. Eh. 3/4*

(4) NO LIMIT (w/KIYOSHI & SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR) vs. JETRHO HOLLIDAY & ERIC YOUNG

Yep, it's Trevor Murdoch. Yujiro starts things off with EY, who slips between his legs and comes back with a dropkick. He tags in Holliday, who at least seems to be a smidge faster than I remembered him. He hits a big Full Nelson Slam for two, so Yujiro rakes the eyes and makes the tag. Naito comes in with a dropkick off the top rope, then No Limit proceed to work the double team. Apparently Kurt Angle had to pull apart Kevin Nash and Booker T during the break—I somehow missed it. Yujiro has tagged back in, but when he tries to come off the top rope Holliday gets up a leg and creates enough distance to make the tag. EY tosses Naito and slams Yujiro. Bashir tries to distract the referee while Kiyoshi holds EY, but there's a miscommunication, EY slips away, and nails a Crucifix Roll Up on Yujiro for the win.

WINNER: Eric Young and Jethro Holliday in five minutes. Holliday was a bit better than I expected.

(5) SCOTT STEINER vs. JEFF JARRETT

Jarrett starts things off with a quick Inverted Atomic Drop and some shots with a kendo stick. One of the sides of the ring has seen the ropes replaced by barbed wire. Jarrett clotheslines Steiner out of the ring, hits him with a walker (the device—not a person who walks), then follows up with a fan's poster conveniently made over a road sign. Steiner dodges a charge and Body Slams Jarrett against the concrete. He grabs a pogo stick, which he whacks Jarrett with a couple of times before deciding to do some bouncing. Awesome. Jarrett tries to knock him back, but Steiner responds with what appears to be an inflatable Santa Clause. For some reason, Jarrett sells it like a chair shot. Steiner Suplexes him onto a trash can.

We get back just in time to see Jarrett take control and toss Steiner into a chair set up in the corner. He blasts Steiner a couple of times with a trash can lid, before hitting a sort-of Double Armed DDT onto a trash can for two. Jarrett signals that he wants to toss Steiner into the barbed wire, but gets taken over with a Do-Se-Do Suplex instead. Steiner gets in a shot with the garbage can lid, then cinches in a Steiner Recliner. Jarrett gets to the ropes, and when Steiner tries to reapply it Jarrett hits him with the lid from the mat, then rolls him into a Small Package for two. Jarrett sets up a chair in the middle of the ring, but when he goes for The Stroke Steiner drives his head into it. The crowd informs him that he still sucks (though I think some people might be saying that they both suck). He puts a trash can over Jarrett's torso and whacks it with a crutch, but when he looks for the Steiner Recliner again Jarrett hits a Low Blow and The Stroke for two. Jarrett goes to the top rope, but Steiner cuts him off with a Samoan Drop for what looked a lot like three but supposedly wasn't. Steiner cinches in The Recliner again, but Jarrett walks him over to the ropes, which he uses for leverage in reversing into an Electric Chair Drop. Jarrett grabs a guitar, with which he blasts Steiner over the head. He follows up with The Stroke for the win.

Winner: Jeff Jarrett in 12 minutes. It had some nice moments, but no real flow. *1/4
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 25 2009, 02:46 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31631.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- MATT HARDY & KANE vs. CM PUNK & JEFF HARDY

I’ve got to be honest, I wasn’t sure that Matt could pull off being a heel, but he’s done a nice job thus far. Jeff and Matt began the match, but before they could make contact, Matt tagged out. Punk then came in to face his opponent for Backlash, Kane. Punk got the better of the big man and tagged in Jeff. Kane with an uppercut, then a tag in to Matt. That brought Jeff back off the mat for some punishment for his brother. Jeff jumped over the top and landed a cross-body onto Matt at ringside. The two men were down outside the ring as the show went to break.

A little double-teaming by Jeff and Punk, followed by a cover by Punk is what viewers saw upon return from break. More double-teaming on The Big Red Machine. Jeff, clearly not being able to focus with his brother standing on the apron, was the recipient of a boot to the back by Kane that sent him to the outside. The brothers were both in and they had a brief brawl, but Matt ended up getting the best of him for the time being. More legdrops from Matt. Neck vice applied by Matt. Both men found the mat, but only the eldest Hardy was able to make the tag to his partner. Jeff broke out of another rest-hold from Matt and hit Whisper in the Wind for two, broken up by Kane. Punk dove through the ropes onto Kane to take him out of the equation. Mule kick and a beauty by Jeff. Jeff tried a Twist of Fate, but Matt pushed him off, into Kane (who was on the apron). Matt then rolled up Jeff and used a handful of tights to secure the victory.

WINNERS: Kane & Matt Hardy, at 10:41. Fine tag match that did the job of hyping two of the PPV matches at once.

2- THE BIG SHOW vs. THE UNDERTAKER

JR referred to this as the “main event” tonight. Body blows right off the bat by Show on Taker. Taker returned fire and even traded hedbutts with the giant. Show’s had a bit more behind them. Show missed a running boot and got hung up in the ropes. Taker booted him over the top and to the outside.

Show had the advantage out of break. More clubbing blows from Show. Taker choked Show on the top rope to get away from an offensive attempt by The Big Show. Taker struck back with right hands. A reversal and Show caught Taker coming off the ropes with a clothesline. Taker tried another comeback here, but couldn’t get Show up for a chokeslam, as Show dodged it with a back elbow. Chokeslam by Show that got only a two-count. You could see the frustration on Show’s face. Dragon-sleeper by Show, with both men on their feet. Taker countered it with a DDT. He rolled over and got an arm across Show for a two-count. In the center of the ring, the men slugged it out, with fans booing on Show’s punches and yay-ing on Taker’s, much like Cena and Jericho on Raw. Clothesline from Taker took Show off his feet. Taker went Old School (much more believable late in a match like this), but Show socked him with a right hand as Taker jumped. Taker didn’t get knocked out, but staggered around the ring a bit. Show lined up Taker to hit him with another one, and he hit Taker in the back of the head. Referee Charles Robinson checked in on Taker and, determining Taker couldn’t continue, awarded the match to Big Show.

WINNER: Big Show via ref stoppage, at 14:21. Surprising result there. I guess Taker got to kick out of the chokeslam since he was going to be on the losing end.

3- MARYSE vs. GAIL KIM- DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Kim got things started with some rights to the face of Maryse. Roll-up by Kim for one. Springboard cross body for two followed that up. Maryse got in some hair-based offense, which drew the ire of referee John Cone. Kim made a comeback, but the crowd wasn’t really behind her. Hurricanrana off the top by Kim for a near-fall. Maryse tried to leave, but Kim came out and brought her back into the ring. As Gail tried to come in, Maryse dropped her throat-first across the middle rope. The French Kiss (DDT) by Maryse finished things off.

WINNER: Maryse, at 2:51. Entertaining match without the small hiccups their last match had.

4- MVP vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Next week, at Madison Square Garden, MVP faces Dolph Ziggler with the United States Title on the line. Chavo with a double-knee to the back of MVP as he was briefly distracted. Chavo worked over the left arm of the US Champ. MVP worked out of it and bodyslammed Chavo. Guerrero came back with a dropkick and a baseball slide that sent MVP to the arena floor. Montel Vontavious Porter caught Chavo with a knee-lift as he attempted to come back into the ring. MVP with his trademark “Ballin’!” elbowdrop. Overhead throw by MVP, then he finished Chavo off with the Playmaker.

WINNER: MVP, at 2:44.

5- BATISTA & SHANE MCMAHON vs. CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE

Dibiase pummeled Shane in the corner, but Shane fought back with some jabs of his own. Jumping back elbow, then a few arm-drags. Batista tagged in and Rhodes made a blind tag. Batista caught Rhodes with a clothesline, then dropped him to the mat for a two-count. McMahon came in and was promptly double-teamed by Team Priceless. Batista saved him with a double-clothesline, and the faces each clotheslined a heel over the top rope and to the outside.

The faces were in control of Cody Rhodes out of break, with Batista entering the match. Shane elbowdropped Cody off the second rope while he was draped across the knee of Batista. Dibiase came in and broke up the pin. Shane was distracted, allowing Rhodes to nail him in the back with a dropkick. Dibiase then tagged in and went right to work. Shane tried to fight out of the heel corner, but Cody took him down with a Russian leg sweep. Shane kept trying to make a tag, but Dibiase kept holding him back. Shane came back with a DDT on Rhodes and Batista tried to get the crowd behind McMahon. Dibiase got the tag first and Shane rolled Ted up for two. He kicked out and in the process sent Shane into Batista on the apron. Batista didn’t look happy, shoved Shane out of the way and landed a spinebuster on Rhodes. Shane picked up the win.

WINNERS: McMahon & Batista, at 11:20. Well, we got some more hints of dissension, even though Batista and Shane hugged after the match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 27 2009, 01:14 pm
WWE Backlash PPV Results: 4-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_31664.shtml)

1 -- ECW champion JACK SWAGGER vs. CHRISTIAN -- ECW Title match

Christian scored with a brief amount of offense early, then Swagger slowed own the pace with some mat-based offense before applying a lengthy bear hug. Christian broke free, but Swagger put him up in the air. Christian avoided a backbreaker, but Swagger wrapped him up with a gutbuster for a two count. Christian tried another comeback with the lean-back leg kick in the corner, but Swagger kneed him in the gut. Christian then blocked a Vader bomb and Christian prepped a comeback. He hit a DDT in center ring, but Swagger kicked out just before three. Match moved to the ring apron where Swagger teased a German suplex, but Christian blocked and flipped Swagger back into the ring. Swagger crotched him, though, and flipped him to the mat. Swagger then went all the way up top for a top rope Vader Bomb, but Christian kicked out before three.

At 10:00, Christian scored a real close nearfall when he blocked a running powerslam into a victory roll. Swagger became frustrated with his inability to put away Christian, so he went to the top rope and loosened the pad. Meanwhile, Christian did the same on the other side. Christian then rammed Swagger head-first into the exposed steel and grappled a stunned Swagger for the Killswitch in center ring. Christian made the cover to win the ECW Title.

WINNER: Christian at 10:55 to capture the ECW Title. Nice match. Would have liked to have seen 15 minutes, but it was still a very good opening singles match. Crowd needed some time to get warmed up, but they bought into the nearfalls at the end. (**3/4)

2 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. RICKY STEAMBOAT

Steamboat played cat and mouse early on as Ross talked about calling some of Ricky's best matches of his career against Ric Flair. Steamboat nailed a plancha on the floor, then took Jericho back into the ring for a round of chops and a deep arm drag. "You still got it" was the chant from the crowd as Steamboat continued on the advantage. Steamboat pulled out another deep arm drag, prompting "Vintage Steamboat!" from Cole. Ah yes, vintage Cole. Jericho then reversed a whip to the ropes and tried to chuck Ricky to the floor, but Ricky skinned the cat back into the ring. Jericho then clotheslined him right back over the top rope to begin his offensive attack at 3:30.

Jericho tried to work over Steamboat on the mat, then Steamboat shoved Jericho into the corner to block a running bulldog. They went up top together and Steamboat executed a textbook backdrop suplex for a two count. Steamboat then fired off a series of martial arts chops and thrusts, but Jericho kicked out. Steamboat nailed a powerslam out of the corner that Cole called a scoop slam. Okay, I'll let the "superplex" instead of a "backdrop suplex" go, but not the second botched move call. Jericho then came back with a bulldog and he wanted a Lionsault, but Steamboat grappled him for the electric chair. Jericho rolled through, though, and slapped on the Walls of Jericho in center ring.

Steamboat reversed at 10:00 and went for a figure four. Took him a second to lock it in, then Jericho sold the hold to make it clear Steamboat had the figure four locked in. Jericho then rolled to the ropes to get a break. Steamboat went up top, Jericho tried to charge, but Steamboat moved and went up top for a crossbody block and a close two count. Steamboat went to the second rope for a dive, but Jericho caught him in mid-air for the codebreaker. Jericho didn't make an immediate cover, then he did, and Steamboat draped his foot across the bottom rope. Jericho argued that it was a three count, then Steamboat rolled him up out of nowhere for a close two count.

Jericho went back to the Walls of Jericho and he slapped it on center ring. Jericho locked it in and squeezed and Steamboat had no choice but to tap out. Jericho locked it in an extra few seconds to make his point, then he released and left the ring. Post-match: Jericho walked to the back and Steamboat took a curtain call in center ring. He pointed to the announce table and clapped toward Ross and Lawler.

WINNER: Jericho at 12:32. Great singles match. Steamboat looked great and Jericho worked a very smart heel match. I don't think Jericho lost anything by giving Steamboat a lot of offense and Steamboat had a fitting send-off, assuming it's a send-off. (***1/4)

3 -- C.M. PUNK vs. KANE

They went to the floor early on and Kane teased a chokeslam, but Punk landed on the apron in mid-air to kick Kane. Back in the ring, they had a battle for control. Kane shoved Punk across the ring into the corner, then he dropkicked Punk's back into the base of the ringpost. Punk wanted to make a comeback, but Kane blasted him with a clothesline. Kane wanted a chokeslam, but Punk countered with a single-arm DDT. Punk then executed the high knee lift/running bulldog for a nearfall. Punk went up top and Kane met him with an uppercut for a nearfall. Punk then came back with a cross-arm breaker, but Kane powered to his feet for a sidewalk slam. Punk then tried to come back with a round of kicks, but Kane blocked a kick and lifted Punk up for a chokeslam while Punk had one leg in the air. Kane made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Kane at 9:25. Above-expectations singles match. They laid out a good match to break up the monotony and focus on Kane's power. Shows WWE still has confidence in Kane as a top act, and now he'll be on Smackdown to see what he can do in that role after exhausting potential feuds on Raw. As for Punk, well, there goes the Mania momentum. (**1/2)

4 -- JEFF HARDY vs. MATT HARDY -- I Quit match

Sign on the front row: "I want Hardy to win." So subtle. Jeff knocked Matt to the floor early on and landed a plancha. Back in the ring, Jeff landed a top rope leg drop and asked Matt if he wants to give it up. Matt whispered, "No" and Jeff went back to work. Jeff wanted a top rope move, but Matt shoved him off the top rope into the guardrail on the floor. Matt then scooped up Jeff off the floor and wrapped his left knee around the ringpost. Jeff refused to quit, though. Back in the ring, Matt slapped on a figure four and Jeff shouted, "Forget it!" Matt went back to work on the left knee as the crowd chanted for tables. Matt then went back to the figure four, but Jeff refused to quit. Crowd came to life in the middle of a resthold as something was going on in the arena. Seemed like a fight on the hard camera side. Perhaps Patriots fans fighting over the fifth round NFL Draft pick.

At 10:00, Matt continued to tear Jeff apart, but Jeff wouldn't quit. Jeff flung Matt off the top rope, then hit a Whisper in the Wind that knocked both men down. Jeff tried to follow with a Texas Cloverleaf, but Matt refused to quit after crying about it. Jeff released the hold then nailed the Twist of Fate. Jeff went up top and connected with the Swanton Bomb in center ring. Matt wouldn't quit, though. Jeff then nailed another Swanton Bomb. After the second one, Jeff went under the ring and he grabbed the table the fans wanted. Matt took the table into the ring, then Matt rolled to the outside to avoid wood. Jeff followed, blocked a ToF, and nailed a Twist of Fate of his own on the floor.

Back in the ring, Jeff placed Matt on the table and went back under the ring to retrieve some duct tape. Uh-oh. Jeff tied Matt's ankles together, then he tied Matt's arms together as Matt remained out cold on the table. Jeff had another survival tool: a rope. Jeff tied up Matt to the table, apparently showing off his Boy Scouts training, and he yanked the rope tight to put Matt in the straightjacket. Waterboarding, anyone? Sorry, too soon?

Jeff then pulled out a ladder and told Matt what he would do if Matt didn't say I Quit. Matt pleaded with Jeff, then Jeff set up the ladder. "I'm sorry, Jeff, I'm sorry, Jeff!!!" Matt shouted as Jeff climbed one rung at a time up the ladder. "Jeff, I'm sorry about everything," Matt said to boos. Matt said he loves him and told him to listen. "We're brothers, Jeff." Matt talked about the strongest bond being brothers. He told him not to listen to the fans, who only get him in trouble. Jeff stood on the ladder as Matt played the "mom's in Heaven and wouldn't like this" card. He said dad wouldn't like this either. Jeff then stood on top of the ladder ready to fly and Matt said, "I Quit." Fans popped, then booed because they wanted to see Matt eat wood. Jeff climbed down one rung, then he surprised everyone with his split-legged splash over the ladder through the table on Matt anyways. Jeff posed over Matt to put the finishing touches on the feud.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy at 19:01. Good integration of the storyline into the match after a slow first-half of the match. I liked this one better than their WrestleMania match, where they jumped into the weapon use way too early. They built to the weapon use at the end and delivered a strong conclusion to the feud, presuming this was the blow-off. As for where they go from here, Jeff gets the final word and is in position for a strong singles push on Smackdown with this possibly being a negotiations tactic from WWE to get him to re-sign a long-term deal. Matt probably shifts to the mid-card on Raw, but that remains to be seen. (***)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 27 2009, 01:19 pm
Continued from previous post...

5 -- SANTINA MARELLA vs. BETH PHOENIX

Santina made the cover for the win. Post-match: Khali cornered Santina and ripped off "her" clothes. Santina sold a wardrobe malfunction trying to cover his/her/whatever nipples. He/she/it ran off as Cole tried to keep the gig going with Ross on commentary.

WINNER: Santina at 0:03. I'd almost take Big Dick Johnson over this any day of the week. Almost. Worst PPV segment ever...other than Ross's line to Cole about who fed him that line. That was classic. (n/a)

6 -- TEAM MCMAHON (WWE champion TRIPLE H & SHANE MCMAHON & BATISTA) vs. TEAM LEGACY (RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE) -- Hunter's WWE Title on the line

Before the opening bell, all six men brawled in the ring until Hunter dragged Orton to the floor and chucked him backstage. Hunter then ran back down to the ring and the ref started the match with a three-on-two set-up. Cole made the point that Orton could win the WWE Title without even being ringside if his team were to win or if McMahons are DQ'ed or counted out. Apparently Orton really needed to go the bathroom, as this dragged on for a while with the McMahons working over Ted and Cody pretty easily to start things off. Batista teased the Batistabomb at 5:30, but DiBiase scampered to the outside to escape Batista.

Suddenly, Orton ran down the ramp at 5:45 and cracked Batista into the ringpost while Batista was giving chase on DiBiase. Crowd came to life as Orton tagged himself in and went to work on Batista. The announcers played up a possible concussion for Batista with the idea that Batista is just returning from that Punt from Orton. Orton went to work on Batista and gave him the big horizontal DDT off the second rope for a two count. Batista teased a hot tag to Hunter, but Orton cut him off. Batista then fired back with a flying headbutt/shoulder out of nowhere and Shane took the hot tag to start firing off on Cody, who tagged in for Orton.

Shane chucked Cody to the outside, then he followed to the floor and ripped off the announce table cover. Shane pummeled DiBiase on the floor, then Shane saw Cody back in the ring, so he went up top and nailed an elbow drop. Ted yanked Shane to the outside to prevent a cover, then Orton tossed Shane knees-first into the ring steps. Legacy then isolated Shane in their corner to begin another round of attacks. Hunter with some great facial expressions of concern that his brother-in-law is going to cost him the WWE Title with every close nearfall. Shane teased a close hot tag at 18:45, but DiBiase tagged in and pulled Shane back to center ring.

Shane countered the Dream Street cobra clutch/sweep, then he tried to crawl over to his corner for the hot tag to Hunter. Orton tagged in too, setting up a mid-ring collision between Hunter and Orton. Hunter absolutely beat the crap out of Orton with right hands, teasing a DQ, then he shot Orton off to the corner for a knock-down clothesline. He then dumped Ted and Cody over the top rope and caught Orton with a spinebuster mid-ring. Action broke down all over the place as the ref tried to restore order. Shane then took Cody to the floor and into the front row. Cody grabbed a chair while he was on the ground, though, and he cracked the chair into Shane's shoulder/head area. Ref was occupied with Orton and Hunter, though. Orton teased the RKO, but Hunter blocked. He then spotted Batista with a chair in hand ready to strike DiBiase, so Hunter yanked the chair away from inside the ring. He reprimanded Batista for thinking about the chair shot, then Orton smashed Hunter with the RKO. Orton made the cover for a nearfall, but the bell rang accidentally. Ref waved it off as a two count in stride. Orton didn't worry about the miscue and he positioned himself to nail The Punt on Hunter to make the cover for the win to capture the WWE Title.

Post-match: Orton grabbed the title and ran away with Cody and Ted to get out of there with the WWE Title. Meanwhile, Batista was on his knees facing Hunter with a combo of frustration and disappointment. They did an injury angle with Hunter KO'ed on the mat. Hunter wasn't moving, then medics appeared to strap Hunter down. Batista and Shane checked on Hunter as medics positioned him. Shane tried talking to Hunter as Batista wiped his head in frustration. They replayed The Punt, which Hunter did a great job of selling to give the announcers some talking points to describe it as a legit injury.

WINNER: Orton at 22:50 to capture the WWE Title. Great conclusion to the match with the incorporation of all the storyline elements leading to Orton's WWE Title. Apparently this will keep Hunter off TV for a while Batista probably chases Orton for a little while. Very heavy on storyline, very slow middle portion building to Hunter's hot tag, and a strong post-match segment leading to Raw's spring storylines. (***1/4)

Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 27 2009, 01:20 pm
Continued from previous post...

7 -- World Hvt. champion JOHN CENA vs. EDGE -- World Hvt. Title match -- Last Man Standing

Bell sounded and the two men slowly approached each other. No contact, then they backed away to opposite corners before finally locking up. They played cat and mouse, then back in the ring, each man teased their finishers, but no contact. Edge then took control after the initial feeling out process and the fans briefly chanted, "C.M. Punk." Edge maintained control as the fans came to life consistently for the first time all night with dueling chants of "Let's go Cena" and "Let's go Edge." Cena finally made a comeback from an attack of sleeperholds before setting up the "You Can't See Me" combo, but Edge blocked the face-wave and slapped on the Sharpshooter in center ring. Edge used the ropes for additional leverage to subdue Cena, who eventually reached his feet at five. Edge then bumped Cena off the ring apron into the announce table on the floor.

At 10:00, Edge wanted a Spear on the floor, but Cena moved and Edge at the ring steps. This led to a series of Irish whip reversals that sent the man on the advantage into the ring steps to lose control. Cena then tossed Edge into the ring and he struggled to throw the ring steps into the ring. Edge met Cena back in the ring with a boot to the head, then he kicked the ring steps into Cena's head while he was prone in the corner. Edge then dropkicked the steps into Cena's right shoulder. Cena suddenly came back and chucked Edge to the floor before power-lifting the ring steps over the top rope onto Edge. Impressive looking even if it's gimmicked.

Back in the ring at 15:00, Cena and Edge had a standing exchange of right hand blows with "yeahs" for Edge and "boos" for Cena. Suddenly, both men keeled over in the ring and the ref began his ten count. Edge took the advantage first and he did the "You Can't See Me" with a sneer in Cena's face. Edge bounced off the ropes, but Cena popped up to his feet and slapped on the STFU. Edge tapped out, but that doesn't count in LMS. Edge got up from the STFU at an eight count, though, so Cena tried the FU, but Edge blocked and nailed a spear mid-ring.

Both men were down, then they took it up top. Cena wanted a top rope FU and he connected center ring. Big pop for that move. Ref Robinson picked up another count and Cena made it up at seven, but Edge made it up at nine. Cena then wanted a top rope guillotine leg drop smash on Edge, but Edge caught him in mid-air with a spear that rocked the house. Ref Robinson then started his ten count. Cena made it up at eight, then fell to the floor. Edge capitalized by ripping of the announce table cover and setting up Cena on the table. Cena blocked, though, and FU'ed Edge over the guardrail into the front row of the stands. I hope those were plants. Ref Robinson then started his count on Edge and one of the fans on the front row. Edge made it up at nine, but the fan who took the brunt of it lost with a ten count.

Edge then tried to run away up the grandstands to the top of the arena. Cena chased all the way to the concourse area. Someone grab some merch! Edge came up limping as Cena smashed him back into the arena area. Craziness as Cena chased Edge back down the arena stands near the stage. Cena waited for Edge to tire himself out, then Cena bulldogged Edge off the steps into a hard production table on the floor. Cena walked away as the ref applied his ten count on Edge. Edge made it up at seven, though. He then struck Edge with a weapon, but the battle picked up on the stage and Edge nailed a hard DDT.

At 26:00, both men came to their feet. Edge then ran to the backstage area and re-emerged with a steel chair. Cena took a shot to the back, then Edge delivered the Conchairto on the stage. Cena's head didn't move as he took the blow. Edge told the ref to begin his count as Cena didn't move. Fans screamed out for Cena to get up as Edge watched from a distance. Cena started to stir at seven, then he pushed himself up at eight and he made it at nine. Cena blocked a spear, then he wanted an FU, but Big Show showed up on stage. He grabbed Cena, teased a chokeslam, then he chucked Cena off the stage into a rocket-ship-like spotlight off stage. They didn't go too heavy on the special effects, as Cena was motionless inside the spotlight with broken glass covering him. Ref then began his count and made it to ten to give Edge the win and the World Title.

Post-match: Edge clutched the World Title belt as medics checked on Cena, who was fitted with a neckbrace. Medics and doctors helped Cena to his feet, then put him on a backbrace as he sold paralysis. Ross did a solemn voice-over for Cena as they concluded with Cena strapped to the gurney and Edge's music playing in the background. Wait, one more replay of Cena taking the bump through the spotlight and fire sparkling in the background. Edge's music stopped, Cena was shown being strapped in, Edge continued to stand breathless on stage clutching the title belt, then they faded out with one last shot of Cena on the gurney.

WINNER: Edge at 28:25 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Amazing brawl. Just crazy good, intense, and good use of the LMS gimmick to create an epic World Title match. The finish was pretty much the only way to get a finish out of this match and it presumably sets up a Cena vs. Show feud. Or, a Hunter vs. Cena feud in a hospital room. Edge with the World Title on Smackdown sets up plenty of possibilities. Epic conclusion to a very strong PPV card. (****1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 27 2009, 01:20 pm
Just want to add...that 10,000 space limit on posts here REALLY SUCKS!!!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 28 2009, 02:10 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31696.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE BRIAN KENDRICK vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Cole said TBK told him early today that Raw should be glad to have him on the show. Lawler agreed. Bell sounded and a fast-paced exchange occurred. TBK tried to run scared, but he fooled Kofi into a drop toehold. TBK then went up top for a missile dropkick for a nearfall. Kendrick measured Kofi, then applied a combo camel clutch and chicken wing on the mat. Kofi broke free, then landed a thrust chop and standing kick. Kofi powered up, then landed a boom-boom leg drop for a two count. TBK wanted Sliced Bread, but Kofi slipped out and hit a cross-body splash for a two count. Kingston then nailed the Buzzsaw Kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kingston at 2:38. Very quick, but good TV match. You could tell this was only going a few minutes, which sucks because they could have stretched out a solid ten minutes of TV, but it was good while it lasted as an ECW-lite/X Division-style match. (**)

2 -- SANTINA MARELLA & KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES & BRIE BELLA vs. Divas champion MARYSE & BETH PHOENIX & JILLIAN HALL & ROSA MENDES

We found out what Hornswoggle's role will be on the Raw brand, as Eve went looking for Brie and she found both Bellas under the ring hanging out with Hornswoggle. He chased everyone around, then he encountered Santino(a) and his little friend. Hornswoggle ran scared up the ramp past the heel divas. Not even sure why WWE flew in half of the divas for this skit to extend the Glamarella program that just keeps dragging on for repeat comedy relief.

WINNERS: It didn't even matter at 2:20. (n/a)

3 -- GOLDUST vs. MATT HARDY

Goldust chased Matt around the ring for a while as Matt ducked and dodged like a good heel. Matt went to the floor, then he snuck in behind Goldust back in the ring and smashed him in the head with his cast. Matt made the pin for the win.

WINNER: Matt Hardy at 1:07. Well, this could be interesting using the mid-'90s Lex Luger "elbow plate from the motorcycle accident" gimmick to keep Matt on TV while he heals. (n/a)

4 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. U.S. champion MVP -- non-title match

Cole recapped MVP's history in WWE dating back to his entrance on Smackdown two years ago as the highest-paid athlete on the brand. Cole gave us a word that Triple H will be "out of action for some time." Lawler said Batista was out four months following Orton's Punt on him. He said Hunter could be out for some time depending on how hard and where the Punt landed. Match went a little mat-based early on, with each man exchanging leverage. MVP landed knees to the gut, then he landed a knee drop to the stomach for a two count. MVP doesn't have "hops" like Kofi, though, so he's better off sticking to the ground attack.

Orton came back with knees to the gut in the corner before surveying the arena for a heel reaction. MVP avoided a corner splash, then he pulled out a hard arm drag to ground Orton again. MVP followed with a Chono boot to the head that flipped Orton to the outside. MVP was in control going to break as Orton was motionless on the floor.

Back from break, Orton was in control with a headlock on the mat. Orton then landed his fallaway backbreaker for a two count before going back to the chinlock. He's making that look real believable now with that sinister look on his face. MVP then escaped with a fallaway slam and both men recovered on the mat. They went into a standing exchange of right hands. Boos for Orton. Yeahs for MVP. Crowd joined in nicely before Orton smashed MVP off the ropes with an elbow, but MVP landed an overhead throw. Orton found himself facing the lights before MVP warmed up the ballin' elbow drop for a two count. Starting to give MVP the Cena/Rock treatment on the trademark mid-match move.

MVP missed with a Chono boot in the corner, though, and Orton dumped MVP over the top rope to the floor. Suddenly, Shane McMahon stormed the ring with Kendo Stick in hand to blast the crap out of Orton. Shane then went up top and nailed a big elbow drop on Orton. Cody and Ted then stormed ringside with chairs in hand, but Shane took off from the ring and ran up the arena steps to the top of the arena. Shane wound up in the Skybox posing from the top of the arena toward Orton, Cody, and Ted, who glared up at him.

WINNER: No Contest, but technically Orton via DQ at 11:17. Really good showing from both men. MVP could stand to lose just a few pounds to become a bit more agile and sleeker in the ring, but he put in a very strong first-night-on-Raw performance against Orton, who is just on top of his game and in control of his character right now. Non-finish was fine, as this match should happen down the road in a title situation. (**3/4)

5 -- Unified tag champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON vs. JAMIE NOBLE & CHAVO GUERRERO -- non-title match

Primo took control early on and busted out some acrobatics to celebrate. Noble then cheated to take advantage on the tag champs. Chavo tagged in and wanted a top rope move, but Primo nailed him in the gut with a mid-air dropkick. Carlito then took the hot tag as Noble took a tag. Carlito cleaned house and did his double springboard splash on Noble for a two count. Primo then flew the ropes with a dive onto Chavo. Noble tried to grab Carlito for a neckbreaker, but Carlito spun out to a backstabber for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Colons at 4:23. Okay match. Not much chemistry, as WWE seems to believe they can just throw random mid-carders together and call them a tag team. Crowd wasn't much into the action here. Just a warm-up match for the Colons to introduce them on the Raw brand before entering an actual program. (*)

6 -- BIG SHOW vs. BATISTA -- #1 Contender's match to WWE Title

Show teased a chokeslam, Batista teased a Batistabomb, they stood off in opposite corners, and WWE cut to a break. That was quick. Final break of the show, presumably.

They returned from break with Show landing body shots to Batista's gut. Batista tried to come back with shoulder thrusts, but Show clubbed him across the back to kill Batista's offense. Show then took Batista to the corner and wrapped him around the ringpost.

Big man battled dragged as Show just kept working the back. Batista then tried to fire back with clotheslines, but Show wouldn't move. Batista showed some agility to avoid a clothesline from Show, then he nailed a spinebuster. Batista then fired up on the ropes, but Show dropped him with a big spinebuster that knocked him to the floor. Batista and Show picked up the battle on the floor, then John Cena suddenly stumbled out on stage as ref Marty tried to hold him up. Cena sold a concussion as Show yelled at him from the entranceramp. Cena didn't move from the top of the stage. Meanwhile, Batista snuck back into the ring. Show heard "nine" from the ref, then he tried to run back into the ring, but ref reached "ten" for a count-out on Show.

WINNER: Batista via count-out at 10:33 to become #1 Contender. Slow, plodding match with a few highspots before the good finish using Cena while still selling the injury. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 29 2009, 12:39 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 4-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31721.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. FINLAY

Finlay powered Kidd to the mat with a shoulderblock early on, then he slapped on a half crab. Kidd tried to reach the ropes, but Finlay pulled him back to center-ring. Finlay really worked the hold before Kidd missed with an enziguiri kick and Finlay clotheslined him to the floor. All Finlay going to break.

Back from break, Finlay was still dominating. Kidd can't even get the "heel always on the advantage coming back from commercial break" advantage in this one. Kidd finally took control with a knee vice and he vowed to break Finlay's leg. Crowd hot with a "Let's go Finlay" chant as Kidd kept working the hold. Finlay broke the hold, then Kidd went right back to it and vowed to break that leg. Finlay came back with a series of clotheslines, followed by a big boot, but he missed with a knee drop.

Finlay absorbed a knee smash and landed a powerslam for a two count. Finlay teased the rolling slam, but Kidd blocked and knocked Finlay to the outside. Kidd tried to follow with a baseball slide, but Finlay wrapped him up in the ring apron to beat down Kidd. Finlay rolled Kidd back into the ring, then Natalya lightly brushed Finlay. Ref distracted, Finlay distracted, and Kidd smashed Finlay from behind right in the knee with his own shillelagh. Kidd with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Kidd in 10:00. Nice TV match. Kidd's mat-based attack was unique and sharp with him really grinding that knee vice and adding some running commentary to the action. Finlay now has a quest to figure out how to win matches without Hornswoggle. Good opener. (**1/2)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- ECW Title match

Bell sounded and Striker said the last time a title changed hands at MSG was in 2004 "with Triple H." He added that John Cena won the U.S. Title. Chris Benoit's name shall remain never uttered on WWE TV, as Striker was obviously referring to WrestleMania 20 when Benoit won a three-way over Hunter and Shawn Michaels, while Cena won the opening match over Big Show to win the U.S. Title. As for the action, both men teased their finishers in the first two minutes. Christian then collected himself before they locked up again. Christian won the advantage, then he slapped Dreamer to begin an attack as they cut to break.

Christian was in advantage out of the break. Christian was working with a little more of an edge tonight to make Dreamer the underdog babyface. Announcers played into that a bit by posing the question of whether Christian is going to start acting differently as champion. Christian went up top and nailed a missile dropkick for a two count before settling into an armbar to take away Dreamer's left arm and shoulder.

Christian went up top at 10:00, but Dreamer blocked him and nailed a top rope superplex. Dreamer couldn't make an immediate cover, though, and Christian kicked out of a pin attempt. Christian went back on the offensive while selling a back injury, but Dreamer blocked a whip to the ropes and clotheslined Christian to the outside. Both men barely made it back into the ring, then Dreamer started a fiery comeback. He landed a reverse DDT, but Christian escaped a pin attempt. They went into a pin attempt exchange on the mat, then Dreamer blasted Christian with an inside-out clothesline.

Dreamer stalked Christian, then he hung Christian upside down in the corner. Crowd knew what was coming as Dreamer fired up for the "E-C-W" basement dropkick, but Jack Swagger blind-sided Dreamer with a clothesline. He gave Dreamer a belly-to-belly suplex before ramming Dreamer's head into Christian, who was still hanging upside down. Swagger then scooped up Christian and gave him a gut wrench powerbomb to put an exclamation mark on the attack. Swagger stared toward the hard camera with a mean look on his face as his music played. They replayed the non-finish as Striker plugged Christian vs. Swagger for the ECW Title at Judgment Day.

WINNER: No Contest in 13:00. Good TV main event with something tangible on the line for this week's show. Crowd was into the action and both men put in a good effort until wearing down a bit at the end. Swagger's run-in was effective for continuing to build him up as a top heel in the company. Swagger is a future star for this company and he seems to grow a little bit more each week. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 01 2009, 01:26 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 4-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31758.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MICHELLE MCCOOL & ALICIA FOX vs. GAIL KIM & MARIA

Gail executed a head scissors on Alicia early on, then Maria tagged in and worked on Fox. Lots of high-flying early on. Heels then cheated to take the advantage on poor Maria, picking up the McCool vs. Maria feud from Smackdown with McCool blasting Maria with a round of kicks and stomps. Kim took the hot tag at 4:00 and came off the top with a dropkick on McCool. Gail tried a turnaround splash, but McCool blasted her in the head for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: McCool & Fox in 5:00. Just the McCool Show and we're all fortunate to be living in it. The inevitable Melina vs. McCool program on Smackdown for the Women's Title should be fun to watch. (*)

2 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. EVAN BOURNE

Bourne blasted Burchill early with kick strikes, but Burchill caught Bourne's leg mid-air and overhead tossed him to the mat. Striker with all sorts of video game references in this one. Burchill worked over Bourne with power offense, but Bourne blocked him in the corner. He wanted a huracanrana, but Burchill shoved him down to the mat and Bourne sold a knee injury. Hey, they don't have commercials in video games.

Back from break, Burchill was still working over the knee as Lea smiled approvingly. Bourne fought out of a knee vice, then he landed elbow strikes before Bourne flipped him across the ring with a standing head scissors. Bourne knocked Burchill to the outside, then Burchill tried to run back in, but Bourne nailed him with a spin kick. Bourne followed with an elbow strike before hopping up top one leg. Burchill cut him off, though. Bourne fought back with elbow strikes, then he balanced himself and nailed the top rope Shooting Star Press on one leg for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 10:00. Bourne was solid working around Burchill's knee work to still incorporate his high-flying offense, while also trying to help Burchill look like a halfway-credible heel attacker. But, we're still talking about Burchill here. He simply doesn't convey that much personality in the ring. (*1/2)

3 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. (w/Cody Rhodes) vs. Unified tag champion CARLITO (w/Unified tag champion Primo)

Carlito started on the offensive with some arm work on DiBiase as the announcers hyped the Backlash PPV results. Carlito and DiBiase then knocked each other to the floor and their respective tag partners helped them to their feet. Stand-off, finger-pointing, yell-at-each-other. Cut to break with tension in the air.

Back from break, Carlito enjoyed brief control before DiBiase took control and began working on the chest. DiBiase landed a double foot-stomp from the second rope before going back to work on the head and neck. Carlito came back with a running knee-lift, then ducked a clothesline, and nailed a knock-down clothesline. Carlito followed with a snap DDT and Cody nearly jumped into the ring to break up the pin, but DiBiase escaped. Nice touch. Carlito tried to charge DiBiase, but Ted nailed a powerslam for a two count. Carlito tried to come back with a springboard elbow smash, but DiBiase blocked and hit the Dream Street combo Million Dollar Dream and Russian legsweep for the pin and the win. DiBiase and Cody celebrated post-match while the Colons recovered to close the show.

WINNER: DiBiase in 10:00. Very nice TV main event. Hard-hitting, physical, and Carlito really looked sharp. DiBiase is getting his bearings as the heel "leading the dance," but he worked well as the aggressor. Nice set-up for the inevitable tag title feud for the belts. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 03 2009, 07:43 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-30-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Talon's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1005671.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Amazing Red and Suicide defeated The Motor City Machine Guns in 6:00. Red has a brand new look with new tights and a new hairdo. He looks more professional than he once did. Shelley and Red exchanged hold with Red getting the upperhand. Tenay and West mentioned “The British Invasion” which is being lead by Brutus Magnus. Illegal interference gave the Machine Guns the upperhand. They followed with a huge hiptoss on Red. A low drop kick followed by a Hesitation Dropkick on Red who was hanging in the corner. Red hit a cool modified reverse DDT on Sabin then got a hot tag to Suicide. A Suicide roll on Shelley took the Machine Guns out for a second but Sabin and Shelley fought back. Minutes later Red hit the Code Red followed by a plancha outside. Suicide hit the Suicide Solution to pick up the win for his team…

Talon’s Take: Red is a step slower but he was impressive here. TNA needs to sign this guy as fast as they can. He could reinvigorate the X Division.

2. Brutus Magnus and Doug Williams defeated Homicide in 4:15. This was the second Team 3D Invitational Match tonight. Homicide was on his own on this one. Williams and Magnus worked over Homicide for the majority of the match. They hit a nice necktie neckbreaker on Homicide. Magnus went for a top rope move but Homicide rolled out of the way. Homicide was a house of fire on Williams and Magnus. Homicide went for a top rope move on Williams but Rob Terry interfered. This allowed Williams and Magnus to hit an Elevated European Uppercut type move on Homicide to win the match…

Talon’s Take: TNA has a new talent initiative going on right now. I was impressed by The British Invasion as the TNA Tag Team Division gets deeper. I hope Homicide goes after the X Title while Hernandez recovers. It was cool to see Williams return to TNA.

3. Awesome Kong defeated Madison Rayne in a Stretcher Match in 3:15. Apparently you have to incapacitate your opponent on the stretcher for a 10-count. Rayne was accompanied by Sky and Love. Awesome Kong brought a picture of Love with her to give her motivation in beating up her opponent. Rudy Charles sent Raisha Saeed, Velvet Sky and Angelina Love to the back. Kong destroyed Rayne. Every time Kong was about to win, she picked Rayne and continued the onslaught. Kong hit an Awesome Bomb. The fans chanted “one more time.” Kong appeased them and gave Rayne another Awesome Bomb. She put Rayne on the Stretcher and easily got the win…[C]

Talon’s Take: The rules to the stretcher match were weird. Usually you wheel your opponent across a line on the ramp to get a win in a stretcher match.

4. Abyss defeated Cody Deaner in 3:00. In this match Abyss couldn’t use weapons while Deaner could. Deaner came out to some very annoying music that had that redneck feel to it. Deaner kept hitting Abyss with weapons but Abyss no-sold them. Deaner went to hit Abyss with a Kendo Stick but Abyss caught it. After spitting whiskey in the face of Abyss, Deaner hit Abyss with a series of weapon shots. Finally after a chair shot, Abyss went down. Deaner got serious and turned his hat backwards. Deaner pulled a wrench from his fanny pack. Abyss connected with a big Black Hole Slam on Deaner…

Talon’s Take: This was strictly a comedy match. It was okay for what it was. Again, you either love or hate Deaner.

5. Kevin Nash and Booker defeated AJ Styles and Samoa Joe in 10:00. Nash and Booker were accompanied by Morasca and Sharmell. Samoa Joe never came out so AJ fought the match by himself. AJ Styles hit a big dropkick early on. Nash tagged in and Big Sexy botched a few moves. The MEM tried to double team Styles but AJ fought out. In the back Bobby Lashley was shown walking. Samoa Joe headed to the ring as we went to break.

We are back from the break as the MEM is in control. During the break Samoa Joe argued with AJ Styles allowing Nash to gain the upperhand. After a distraction from Jenna Morasca, Sharmell slid the Legend’s Championship into Booker who used it on AJ Styles to pick up the win. After the match Samoa Joe and AJ Styles began to argue…
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 03 2009, 07:55 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-1-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1005688.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. John Morrison defeated Shelton Benjamin at 2:43. I had a weird synching problem during most of this match and the video froze several times. Morrison hit a springboard elbow followed by the Moonlight Drive for the win…The announce team hyped the fatal fourway match and Punk vs. Edge for later.

Shore’s Slant: Am I the only one getting a crappy feed? Every other channel is fine and the commercials are fine but Smackdown is terrible. Morrison seemed to be the face here which is cool. Smackdown is very heel heavy and he could be the arrogant face like The Rock was. This match needed more time so I could see part of it. I’m expecting big things from Morrison on Friday nights.

2. Jeff Hardy defeated Rey Mysterio, Kane, and Chris Jericho in a four-way elimination match to determine the Number One Contender to the World Heavyweight Title at Judgment Day at 17:31. Everybody attacked Kane to start, but he tossed Hardy and destroyed Jericho and Mysterio. He tossed Jericho to the floor beside Hardy who was selling the most destructive toss through the ropes in history. Kane picked up Rey in a gorilla press and tossed him onto Jericho and Hardy. He smiled in the ring as the three other men recovered into the break…

Back at 4:45, Kane came off the top rope and Hardy drop kicked him out of the air. Mysterio hit a leg drop off the top rope on Kane for two. Jericho reversed a Mysterio whip for a tilt a whirl back breaker for two. Hardy hit a flying clothesline of Jericho for two. Hardy tried a move and Jericho countered and tried a Walls of Jericho, but Kane broke it up. Jericho pulled Mysterio out of the ring and Hardy hit Whisper in the Wind and a Swanton on Kane. Jericho pulled Hardy out of the ring and covered Kane to eliminate him at 7:01.

Kane went nuts and tossed chairs into the ring. He tossed Rey in as well, who hit a dropkick on Jericho, setting him up for the 619. Rey hit the 619 and came off the top rope. But Jericho threw one of the chairs at him. The ref disqualified Jericho at 8:18 to eliminate him. Jericho argued and Jeff and Rey recovered into the break…

Back at 12:45, Rey and Jeff stared each other down. Rey hit a kick and whipped Hardy to the ropes and hit a drop kick for two. Rey whipped him again and Jeff grabbed the ropes to cause Rey to miss another dropkick. Jeff dropped both legs on the “mid-section” and hit a sitdown dropkick for two. Hardy hit a Sunset Flip, but Rey rolled through and kicked Jeff in the face. The two men ran the ropes and hit a flying cross body on each other. At 15:45 there were about 17 reversals in a row and ended with Jeff Hardy rolling up Rey for two.

Jeff dropped Rey in the corner and tried for his sitdown corner dropkick but Rey moved. The reversal of reversals happened again and Jeff got another near fall. Rey hit a drop toe hold and the 619 on Jeff. He came off the top rope with the springboard sitdown splash, but Jeff kicked hard on the pin attempt and rolled Rey over for the surprise win. Post match, Jeff and Rey hugged and then Jeff celebrated in the ring…

Shore’s Slant: If you think I didn’t get everything in this match, you’re right. I’m out of breath from watching it. Great, great match that was PPV worthy in my opinion. If we get something like this every week, Raw will quickly become the number two show. Jeff Hardy is requesting some time off, so I expect Edge to retain at Judgment Day (assuming he wins tonight), but still not a waste of time. I love when they go to MSG!

3. MVP w/Sherri Shepherd defeated Dolph Ziggler to retain the United States Championship at 3:55. MVP started out with three quick hip tosses. Ziggler tossed MVP to ringside in front of Shepherd. She checked on him but backed up when Ziggler came towards them. He kicked MVP a few times and then tried to introduce himself to Shepherd. MVP attacked him but Ziggler ducked and MVP ended up in Shepherd’s arms. Ziggler tried to turn MVP around but he elbowed him and went back to Shepherd. He told her to stay right there and went back in the ring. Ziggler took control and beat down MVP. Shepherd climbed up on the apron and Ziggler started harassing her. She slapped him and MVP hit the Playmaker for the win. Post match, the happy couple walked arm in arm up the ramp.

Shore’s Slant: The whole second hour has a surreal quality about it. That match was terrible and Shepherd was the best part about it. I’m glad MVP is on Raw after tonight so I don’t have to deal with her again. Punk/Edge better be awesome.

4. Edge defeated CM Punk in a non-title match 11:35. Punk picked up Edge immediately for GTS, but Edge grabbed the ropes. Punk went on the attack, kicking Edge a bunch of different ways. Punk went to the top and Edge climbed up as well. Punk dropped off and hit a hot shot on Edge on the top rope. He went back to the top and Edge swept the feet. He hung Punk upside down and speared his back. Punk fought back and tried a suplex, but his back wouldn’t let him. Edge picked him up and dropped him gut first on the top rope. He kicked Punk to the floor and fell down in the ring. Both men recovered into the break…[C]

Back at 6:27, Edge hit a knee lift on a running Punk. He continued to work on Punk’s back with strikes and kicks. Punk was in a 619 setup and Edge tried to splash him, but Punk moved. That looked like it hurt. Punk came back with a heel kick, followed by a number of kicks. He setup for GTS, but Edge slipped down and tried for a sunset flip. Punk dropped to his knees for two. Edge dropped Punk on his face for two. Edge setup for the spear. He charged, but Punk kicked him. Punk hit the kick in the corner and followed with a bulldog for two. Punk went to the top and jumped over Edge. Edge tried to spear again and Punk hit a powerslam for two.

Punk picked up Edge for GTS. Edge blocked the knee and locked in a Sharpshooter. Punk made it to the rope and Edge broke. He stood on the apron. Edge tried to suplex him back in, but Punk rolled out and hit GTS for the clean win. Punk went and got the briefcase. He talked to the ref who talked to Justin Roberts. Roberts announced that MITB was being cashed in and announced the title match. Punk turned around and Umaga ran in from the crowd and superkicked him before the bell rang. He picked up Punk and hit a spinning fall away slam. Umaga left and Edge picked up the briefcase. Jeff Hardy ran in and hit Twist of Fate and a Swanton on Edge. Jeff Hardy celebrated to end the show…

Shore’s Slant: Good match that had a surprising clean pin. The run in by Umaga was fine. I’m sure “Vickie set it up,” which is fine. This was the craziest show in a while. It was hot, then stupid, then hot again. Overall though, solid show that gets me excited to watch again next week. Storylines should clean themselves up next week, which will only make for a better show. Did I mention Morrison and Jericho are going to feud? I feel high just thinking about it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 06 2009, 07:06 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31837.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

n/a -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. SHANE MCMAHON -- non-title match

WWE champion Randy Orton came to the ring to start the show for the match against Shane McMahon. Orton came out alone and took his sweet time in the process. After Orton's music stopped, Shane's music hit. No sign of Shane, though. Shane then ambushed Orton from behind like a cowardly babyface. Fight went to the floor, then into the stands. A little girl sporting an HBK hat nearly got involved.

The brawl moved into the stands, then to the ringside area. Shane wanted a top rope splash through the announce table, but Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes jumped Shane in the ring. Orton helped triple team them, MVP stormed the ring to try to help out Shane. MVP was beaten down, though. Orton then dumped MVP over the top rope to the floor. Shane was left alone in the ring to take a beating, then Batista stormed the ring. (Parks: the arena came unglued for Batista.) Batista cleaned house on Legacy as Orton took off running from ringside.

Raw GM Vickie Guerrero then interrupted the proceedings. She declared herself the GM of Raw in case we forgot. Vickie said she won't let them ruin her main event. She booked two singles match of Cody vs. MVP and Batista vs. DiBiase. If you win, then you join either Orton or Shane in the TV main event tonight.

1 -- MATT HARDY vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Announcers talked about everything Hardy can't do since his right hand is messed up. Can't eat. Can't sleep. Can't write. Matt tried to beg off early on, then Kofi surprised him with a small package for a two count. Matt started using his feet to work over Kofi before he slingshot him across the top rope for a two count. Kofi then countered a suplex into a neckbreaker before landing a standing dropkick. Kofi landed a turnaround splash, then he came up holding his hand. Kofi went into his offensive attack, including a boom-boom leg drop for a two count. Kofi then ducked a clothesline using the cast and he blasted Matt with the Trouble in Paradise buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kofi was celebrating the victory, then Matt surprised him with a cheap shot with the cast to the face. Kofi was KO'ed and Matt angrily walked away from the ring.

WINNER: Kofi at 4:22. Okay match. Matt was quite limited in the ring with the cast on. Kofi incorporated some highspots to keep the crowd involved. Post-match was good for Matt to get his heat back after taking a clean loss. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion MVP vs. CODY RHODES -- non-title match -- winners gets main event slot

Regal continued to complain about there not being order to the Raw pecking order as the match started with a series of nearfalls. Good start with neither man able to take control. Cody then took out MVP's knee from behind as they cut to a shot of Shane watching on a monitor backstage. MVP came back with a series of clotheslines, then he knocked Cody to the outside. MVP followed on the floor, then Regal snuck away from the table and took MVP's knees out from under him behind the ref's back. MVP tried to make his way back into the ring, but he couldn't get off his leg and he was counted out. Regal then stared down MVP, who was quite upset and selling pain.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes at 4:08. Good match to set up the MVP vs. Regal program. In-ring, good intensity. Cody continues to grow as a performer, although I'm not sure if he's ever had a clean victory. Ever. (*1/2)

3 -- Divas champion MARYSE vs. MICKIE JAMES -- non-title match

Match action moved to the floor early on. Maryse took control, then she put Mickie in a Camel Clutch back in the ring. If I'm Maryse, I'm upset with Show for stealing my hold moments before my match. But, perhaps it's not a grievance worth airing, but keeping to herself. Mickie then made her comeback and nailed an emphatic DDT for the pin and the win. Jared the Subway Guy then announced her as the winner.

WINNER: Mickie James at 2:40. Good to see an actual singles match without Hornswoggle or any other craziness. Still only a three-minutes-and-under match, but a good match for Mickie and Maryse. (3/4*)

In-ring: Ted DiBiase, Jr. was already in the ring ready for Batista. Batista came out for a full in-ring entrance.

4 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. BATISTA

DiBiase tried to play cat and mouse with Batista early on, and he wore down Batista to take control back in the ring. Batista then came back with trademark shoulder thrusts in the corner before DiBiase fired off a slap that caught the ref more than Batista. Batista was angered, so he blasted DiBiase. Batista blasted him too much out of anger and the ref reached a five count on the attack as Batista wasn't paying attention. Batista then snapped and chucked his elbow pad down to the mat as DiBiase snuck away with a grin on his face.

WINNER: DiBiase at 3:58. Basic match to set up Shane with the stacked deck of having to face Legacy by himself in a three-on-one handicap match. Batista as the hot-head who is costing Team McMahon matches is a good way to plant seeds for that inevitable heel turn.

5 -- Unified tag champion CARLITO vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK

Kendrick had about a second of offense, then Carlito nailed a codebreaker out of the corner for the pin and the win. Afterward, Carlito put his two title belts over his shoulders and sold pain from the belts being sooo heavy.

WINNER: Carlito at 1:18. Just a filler match that didn't do anything for Kendrick. Carlito was fine, although this match just didn't have much time to mean anything. (n/a)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES vs. SHANE MCMAHON

Bell sounded and Shane fought Cody to start things off. Shane landed a clothesline, but Cody rammed him back into Legacy's corner to tag in DiBiase. Here's a non-wrestler cutting off DiBiase from making a tag to one of his partners. Announcers reminded us that Shane isn't a wrestler, but he's "fueled by passion and emotion." Shane then went up top for an elbow drop and he connected on DiBiase. He made a cover, but Cody broke up the pin. Shane came up holding his elbow, then he threw a wild elbow at Cody. DiBiase knocked him to the outside, continuing this clunky match.

On the outside, Shane grabbed a chair to blast Cody, but Orton smashed him from behind and rolled Shane back into the ring. Orton then made an official tag to stalk Shane and begin assaulting him. Cody then tagged in and missed with a top rope moonsault on Shane. Shane then made his huge comeback with SuperShane punches and kicks and clotheslines and such. Action moved to the floor where Shane put Orton on the announce table. He then went back into the ring for his top rope elbow. After milking the moment for all it was worth, Shane flew off the top and ate the table when Orton moved in plenty of time. Shane was KO'ed as Orton realized the opportunity.

DiBiase and Rhodes dragged Shane over to the corner and put his leg next to the ring steps. Orton grabbed a chair and screamed down at Shane that this is punishment for not staying out of his business. Orton took a deep wind-up and smashed the ring steps near Shane's ankle for a dramatic moment. Shane cried out in pain, then Orton set up Shane for Round Two of Ankle Torture. Orton measured Shane for a second blow as some of the ringside "smart" fans cheered Orton on to take Shane off TV. Orton then lifted up the top set of steel steps and smashed Shane's right ankle a second time. Shane writhed in pain on the floor as Orton crouched down from a distance. He slithered over to Shane before more refs showed up to push Orton away from the scene.

Suddenly, Batista's music hit and Batista stormed ringside. Meanwhile, Legacy took off running as Batista pounded the mat in frustration that Shane was taken out. Medics checked on Shane and put his leg in an anklecast to help him out. Shane was put on a stretcher as Orton took the mic and addressed Batista. He said Batista's Judgment Day is coming. Orton stared coldly toward Batista, who shook the ropes in frustration. Shane was then wheeled down the entranceramp as Orton and Batista had a staredown from a distance to close the show.

WINNER: No official decision, but presumably Shane via DQ when Batista came out at 11:45. Another one of those Shane matches where WWE had to balance the idea of Shane being a non-wrestler, but not making this completely one-sided to where there's no drama. Another injury angle for the McMahons means more heat on Orton and Co. to build them up as a ruthless heels. Desired result was accomplished even if the match wasn't that great to hold the interest of the audience. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2009, 12:03 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 5-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report).  (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31861.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya)

Match started with some mat work, then Bourne blocked a whip to the ropes and caught Kidd with a standing dropkick. Kidd then knocked Bourne to the outside and Bourne tried to intimidate Natalya to back up. Back in the ring, Bourne slingshot himself off the apron to the corner, then into a head scissors on Kidd. I can't even describe how innovative that looked. Kidd needed a breather as they cut to break.

They returned from break with Kidd in control. Bourne then hit Kidd with a spin kick to regain control of the match. Bourne missed with a corner attack, then Kidd kicked him hard in the back of the left leg to instantly take control by working the leg. Kidd very aggressive working over Bourne as he went to the mat and screamed at Bourne. Kidd very verbal: "Ask him ref, I'll break his neck!" Bourne tried to fight back with kick strikes, then he landed an innovative leaping knee lift beneath the chin to break free.

Both men recovered, then Bourne kicked Kidd in the chest. He ducked an attempted kick from Kidd before leaping to the second rope for a turnaround back-kick that took Kidd down for a two count. Bourne landed a leaping left arm elbow for another close call. Bourne landed on the apron following an exchange, then Natalya got involved by yanking Bourne down onto the edge of the ring apron. Back in the ring, Kidd wanted a top rope move, but Finlay came down to ringside and scared Natalya into the ring. Ref was distracted, then Finlay smashed Kidd in the leg behind the ref's back with the shillelagh. With Kidd down, Bourne went up top for the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 14:00. Flashes of brilliance in this one. We're due a clean match between the two down the road, but a very nice first match between the two. The Kidd-Finlay program will have tremendous long-term benefits for Kidd as he matures on WWE TV just like Swagger went through Finlay to become a star. (**3/4)

2 -- KOZLOV vs. POOR JESSE

Crowd tried to agitate Kozlov with a "USA" chant, but Kozlov shoved Jesse into the ropes and took him down with a leg sweep. Striker with the 1980s-era commentary that Kozlov is "programmed" for victory. Kozlov with the modified Rock Bottom - the Iron Curtain - for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kozlov slipped to the floor and took the mic. He's annoyed. He said like six words. Kozlov dropped the mic and walked off.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:30. Your basic squash to reinforce Kozlov's dominance. It's actually kind of interesting and fun when Kozlov takes the mic. You never know what he'll say and that unpredictability makes him more interesting than your average big man of few words. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) -- non-title match

Christian knocked the sweat off Henry's brow early on with some palm thrusts, but Henry knocked him down with a boot to the face. Christian came back with his signature pendulum kick out of the corner, then he tried a sunset flip, but Henry blocked. Henry tried to sit down on Christian's face, but Christian moved. Jack Swagger suddenly stormed the ring to attack Christian. Dreamer then made the save and they clotheslined Swagger to the outside. On cue, ECW GM Tiffany came out and said there's been some extra involvement, so let's have a tag match. Both sides talked strategy going to break.

WINNER: Christian via DQ in 2:00. Short, painless, fine set-up for the tag match main event. (n/a)

4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Action was joined in progress with Christian working on Swagger. Dreamer then tagged in and worked on Swagger while Henry waited for a tag in a reversal of tag team wrestling 101. Swagger accepted a boot to the gut, but he blocked Dreamer and landed a belly-to-belly suplex to finally get Henry in the ring to put the boots to Dreamer. Swagger tagged in and Atlas told Swagger to hold Dreamer down from making that tag. Striker said he's going on record that he wants Swagger to win back the ECW Title at Judgment Day.

On cue, Swagger lost control of the match and Christian tagged in to tee off on Henry, who also tagged in. Striker equated Christian's strikes to Manny Pacquiao, but Christian chopped Henry down with a chopblock and rolling kick for a two count. Henry then clobbered Christian mid-ring and Swagger tagged back in. Swagger landed a running Vader Bomb then he put a knee in Christian's throat to inflict more punishment. Physical confrontation between Christian and Swagger led to Henry tagging in to punish Christian some more.

Well, make sure you note on the DVR for future weeks that ECW is going back to the over-run period they enjoyed during the ECW brand's initial run in the 10:00 p.m. EST timeslot. Henry and Swagger continued to exchange tags to work over Christian before Christian nailed a reverse DDT out of the corner. Swagger cut off Christian's hot tag attempt with a front facelock, but Christian countered into a backbreaker across his knee. Dreamer then reached out for a tag and Dreamer went after Swagger before knocking Henry off the apron.

Dreamer landed a neckbreaker, then he did the full-arm-extension ECW pose. Dreamer with a bulldog out of the corner for a two count, then Dreamer put Swagger up top before hanging him upside down. Henry tried to break it up, but Henry accidentally smashed Swagger in the corner. Christian then dropkicked Henry to the outside and he wanted a splash, but Henry caught him in mid-air. No matter for Dreamer, who nailed a cannonball dive onto Christian's back to knock down Henry. Sweet move. It took too long, though, as Dreamer missed with a corner splash on Swagger, who used the distraction to remove the turnbuckle pad and send Dreamer into the exposed steel. Swagger then scooped up Dreamer and gave him the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. Swagger posed in the corner to close the show five minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNERS: Swagger & Henry in 10:00. Nice little tag match main event. A bit slow at times, but Swagger kept it interesting weaving in some impressive-looking matholds. Dreamer's cannonball dive onto Henry was unique and fit the storyline well of Swagger having a one-up on Dreamer, and in this case, Christian as well to set up their ECW Title match at the PPV. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2009, 12:13 am
Ring of Honor Results: 5-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31851.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only (Note that this show marked the appearance of The Nature Boy Ric Flair)

1 -- CHRIS HERO (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Rey) vs. KENNY OMEGA

Hero was back in long trunks (with a Camo design) after experimenting with traditional black trunks. After a brief feeling-out process, Omega took Hero to the floor and nailed a dive to the outside. Back in the ring, Omega nailed a top rope cross-body splash for a two count. Hero then took the advantage and used a distraction from Sara Del Rey to smash Omega with the loaded elbow pad for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hero in 5:00. Just a match to establish two characters since there wasn't an issue on the line. Focus was on Hero's heel tactics using the loaded elbow pad. Okay match, but not memorable since there wasn't an issue and they were only given five minutes. (*1/4)

2 -- BRODIE LEE (w/Jimmy Jacobs) vs. NECRO BUTCHER

Necro brought a chair to the ring. Obviously they went with the "no wrestling holds" pre-match discussion to differentiate the match from ROH's strict adherence to rules for regular matches. Match started on the floor with Necro blasting Brodie with repeat chair shots. Match eventually moved into the ring to officially start the match...with a wrestling hold. What gives?! Jacobs then hopped on the apron to run interference, but Necro bumped Lee into Jacobs on accident. Bell sounded early. Necro then rolled up Lee from behind for the pin and the win. Bell sounded again.

WINNER: Necro in 3:00 official minutes. They raised expectations too high by promising no wrestling holds. Instead, they tried to have a wrestling match. Ugh. (n/a)

3 -- ERICK STEVENS vs. SAL RINAURO

Prazak said in wrestle-speak that Stevens needs to stop facing jobbers and face tougher competition in ROH to prove himself. Stevens ran over Sal in the corner before he made Hogewood shout for joy with the Doctor Bomb for the win. So, I guess that's Aggressive, Unstoppable, and Runaway Train from the Buzz Words.

WINNER: Stevens in 1:00. Squash to establish Stevens's buzz words. Basic deal, but fine. (n/a)

4 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. RODERICK STRONG

Neither man gained an advantage early on as they slowly built an even battle for the match. Aries had the first offensive flurry with a series of armdrags. Strong came back, then Aries offered a handshake truce, but Double-A slapped Strong across the chest when Strong nearly took the bait. Aries began his offensive attack with his heel mannerisms to keep the action interesting until Strong made his comeback with a dropkick for a two count. Strong ripped off a series of trademark chops before nailing a backbreaker for another nearfall. Action moved to the floor and Aries connected with a suicide dive on the floor to cut off Strong's momentum.

At 10:00, Aries went back on the offensive. Strong cut him right off, though, and landed an enziguiri kick in the corner for another close pin attempt. Aries blocked a clothesline attempt, then he slowly built his offensive advantage again. Strong caught Aries out of the corner for a gutbuster, though, and landed a trademark leaping kick before slapping on the Boston Crab. Aries reached the ropes for a break, then Strong slapped the hold on again. Aries broke again, then Strong wanted a butterfly suplex, but Aries countered into a clothesline. Strong tried to block a suplex attempt, but Aries executed his brainbuster suplex for the clean pin and the win to prove himself to Ric Flair.

WINNER: Aries in 15:00. Aries is such a great heel and he truly stands out in ROH for having a character that fans can relate to: either they like him for being a good character or can't stand him because he's a cocky, arrogant heel. The match itself was okay, but didn't move out of first gear. I've seen better Aries matches and I've seen better Strong matches. ROH still hasn't addressed the lack of crowd involvement on their TV broadcasts. The audience is so far removed from the action both vocally and visually inside the darkened arena that the action looks like it's occurring inside a studio box.(**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2009, 05:03 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31904.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINA & KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDEZ

Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler took over commentary. Cole: "Beth said dating Santino was like dating a child, and I'm sure, King, you can see what Beth Phoenix is talking about." Lawler said, "Just because my wife had a marriage license before they had a driver's license, what are you talking about?" After getting kicked in the butt, Santina walked it off and got some laughs. A few minutes of decent action and more comedy spots ended with Kelly pinning Mendez.

WINNERS: Phoenix & Mendez in 4:00

2 -- ZACH RYDER vs. FINLAY

Josh Matthews and Matt Striker called this. Ryder debuted his new look here, which is going to make D.J. Gabriel upset. He acted like Brian Christopher of Too Cool fame with his body language and mannerisms. His gimmick is that he's worried about his spiked jelled hair being messed up. Finlay messed it up to make him angry. Then he slapped him after he mouthed off at him. Finlay caught Ryder in the ring apron when Ryder flipped over the top rope onto him. Striker said Ryder has gotten very cocky ever since his early success in WWE. He said his own face is his screen saver.

Ryder got control at 3:00 after some ringside action, but Finlay avoided a charge in the corner and then gave him a Celtic Cross.

WINNER: Finlay in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2* -- Not a lot to it. Why give Ryder a make-over and new gimmick only to job him to a 50 year old mid-carder in his relaunch?

3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. JOHN MORRISON

This is an interesting match on a number of levels. Can Morrison look like a potential main event singles wrestler against one of the shortest WWE PPV headliners in Jericho? He looked smaller than Jericho all around, slightly shorter and definitely thinner than the thickish Jericho, but just big enough to look like he's in the same weight division. Morrison clotheslined Jericho over the top rope to the floor early. Back in the ring Jericho took over at 2:00. He slapped Morrison a couple times, so Morrison fired back with a barrage of punches. Jericho knocked Morrison to the floor as they cut to a break at 4:00.

Morrison made a comeback at 7:00, hitting a clothesline and a flying leg clothesline, then a running knee to the face for a two count. Ross touted how this match is a testament to how well Smackdown did in the draft. At 8:00 Jericho applied a Walls of Jericho, but Jericho quickly grabbed the bottom rope to force a break. He then tossed Jericho crotch-first into the corner and hit a split-legged corkscrew springboard moonsault. Spectacular. Near fall followed. Jericho came back briefly, but Morrison scored another near fall with a bodyblock. Jericho fired back with an enzuigiri for a two count of his own at 10:00. Morrison hit a springboard roundkick to Jericho's face. Shelton Benjamin's music interrupted. He appeared on the big screen and he said: "Remember me? Now that I have your attention, gotcha!" Jericho surprised the distracted Morrison with a Code Breaker for the win.

WINNER: Jericho in 11:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Okay match. It seemed a bit meandering early in that there was no sense of urgency in the early minutes, but it picked up into a solid match in the final minutes. It'd be nice to know if we're supposed to cheer for Morrison or not. Is Shelton heelish for distracting him? Or are fans supposed be glad Morrison was distracted into a loss? Casting heros and villains goes a long way.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2009, 05:10 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 5-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31905.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CONSEQUENCES CREED (w/Black Machismo) vs. SUICIDE -- Non-Title Match

Don West made his case why he believed Suicide was Daniels. Tenay was less skeptical and accused West of buying into anything Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley say. Nice action in the early few minutes, which also counted as the "last few minutes." Suicide won with a double knee jaw jammer off the middle rope.

WINNER: Suicide in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- A nice three minute start to a full-fledged match.

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. SAL E. BOY & BIG ROCCO

Morgan wiggled his pecs like it was 1989. He tossed the rotund Rocco across the ring and then chokeslammed him. West touted his raw power and said the Mafia might see this and want to utilize Morgan to watch their backs. Rocco jumped Morgan from behind. Morgan slammed Rocco off the top rope, then finished Sal with the Carbon Footprint in 2:00.

WINNER: Morgan in 2:00.

STAR RATING: 1/4*

3 -- BEER MONEY INC. (James Storm & Robert Roode) vs. JETHRO HOLIDAY & ERIC YOUNG

As the match began, Tenay said: "Recently well-known commentator Jim Ross that within the wrestling business today he does not see red-hot tag team wrestling returning anytime soon." Ray said, "If tag team wrestling is not a priority in the company that Jim Ross works for, then shame on them. Tag team wrestling is definitely a priority in TNA." It's good to see TNA accentuating a difference between them and WWE like this, and the mention of Ross directly certainly perked up some ears. Ray touted Rob Terry as a monster newcomer as part of the new British Invasion tag team. West said he backs Team 3D in this tag tournament concept. At 3:00 Beer Money double-teamed Holiday for a near fall. Ray said TNA is the one place in wrestling where tag team competition thrives. Young climbed to the top rope and hit a legdrop on Storm. Roode broke up the pin. Beer Money finished Young with their DWI (Driving While Investing) finisher. Ray and Devon stood up and applauded them for their win. Ray said they took the next step and they're proud of them. Beer Money looked at them skeptically. Not sure what's up with Team 3D being so supportive, in a borderline patronizing way, of Beer Money.

WINNER: Beer Money Inc. in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *

3 -- VELVET SKY (w/Angelina Love) vs. AWESOME KONG (w/Ryesha Saeed)

Tenay talked about Kong talking on Impact for the first time ever. The ref sent the seconds to the back. Kong gave Sky an Implant Buster. "Beautiful implants, by the way," West said. Kong gave her a second Implant Buster. West gave Kong a hard time for doing it two more times. She put Sky on a stretcher, but before the ref count count to ten, Kong gave her another Implant Buster, and another. She dragged her onto the stretcher and the ref quickly counted toward ten. At seven, Kongs tepped him and gave her an Awesome Bomb. Some fans chanted, "One more time!" The ref counted to ten.

WINNER: Kong in 3:00.

STAR RATING: 1/4* -- I know they want to build Kong up as a killer dominant force, but there's nobody else in the division being treated as being even in her league.

4 -- SAMOA JOE & JEFF JARRETT & A.J. STYLES & CHRISTOPHER DANIELS & MICK FOLEY vs. KEVIN NASH & BOOKER T & KURT ANGLE & STING & SCOTT STEINER

West said this is the first time ever all five Mafia members have teamed together. Daniels opened against Steiner. Angle tagged in against Daniels at 1:00. Styles then relieved Daniels and took early control on Angle. Angle raked Styles's eyes to stop him, then tagged in Booker. West touted the trust the Mafia have in each other, unlike their opponents. He said people pay to see the Mafia, not anyone else. They cut to a break as Booker went for a pin on Styles.

Nash beat on Styles after the break. Sting tagged in seconds later. West touted the rapid tag strategy of the MEM. Steiner and Booker took turns, too. Joe broke up a pin on Styles, showing a sign of loyalty toward Styles. Angle held Styles center-ring and went for an Angle Slam. Styles ducked and hit the Pele Kick. Styles tagged in Foley, who gave Sting a neckbreaker. Angle surprised Foley from behind with a back suplex. Jarett jumped in and gave Angle a quick Pedigree. Nash went for a Jackknife on Jarrett. Joe broke it up with a running boot, knocking Nash to the floor. Joe dove through the ropes onto Nash. Styles and Daniels dove onto Steiner and Booker. Angle brought the barbed wire baseball bat into the ring. Jarrett low-blowed Angle. Foley then yanked the bat away from Jarrett. Jarrett shoved Foley and kicked him in the crotch, then gave him a Stroke on the barbed wire. Sting then covered Foley for the win, getting himself entered in the Sacrifice main event.

WINNER: MEM in 10:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Okay for what it was. It wasn't much of a ten-man tag when Styles was in 90 percent for one team and the MEM members were in for only a few seconds at at time. It served it's purpose, but they could have given it more time so it felt less like an angle disguised as a main event match. They heated up the Jarrett-Foley rivalry while giving the first hint that Joe might be a loyal teammate after all.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Okay edition of Impact. More good than bad, but nothing great or terrible (although Morgan vs. the security guys came close). It advanced some storylines effectively with a big announcement at the end, although I doubt many are going to buy that this will be Sting's final match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 09 2009, 11:03 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31932.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- R-TRUTH vs. MIKE KNOX

Ross said Truth enters the arena like Grisham enters catering- charismatically. I for one would like to see that. Grisham talked about when he broadcasted for ECW and how Knox, who was on the brand at one time, blew through the competition there. Did Grish even announce ECW while Knox was there?

Truth got the advantage for the first 45 seconds or so, then made the mistake of playing to the fans. Truth’s offense looked pretty good. Truth made a comeback, and he took Knox off his feet with a dropkick to the knee followed by a scissors kick. That got a two-count. The ref backed Truth out of the corner and Knox used the opportunity to hit a bicycle kick on Truth. Knox Out finished it.

WINNER: Knox, at 2:44. I thought this would pretty much be a squash, but Truth got a lot of offense in. Match was nice and crisp.

2- MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. GAIL KIM

I’m still not sure what the relationship between Fox and McCool is. McCool showed off for the fans after taking Kim down. Kim got the advantage and whipped McCool into the ropes, but Michelle slid out of the ring. Fox got knocked to the floor by Kim while she went after McCool. Michelle regained control inside the ring. Head-scissors applied by McCool. Kim built some offensive momentum and flung herself right into Michelle’s mid-section in the corner. Blockbuster (and call such by JR) by Kim off the top for two. Kim went for a hurricanrana, but Michelle hold on and hit the Faith Breaker (Styles Clash) for the win.

WINNER: McCool, at 3:14. One of the better women’s matches as of late. Still hate the name of her finisher though.

3- JOHN MORRISON vs. CHARLIE HAAS

Haas had the old WGTT theme and was accompanied to the ring by Shelton Benjamin. Shelton took a seat at the announce desk, but didn’t join the commentators. Haas hit some hard right hands as Shelton cheered him on. JR and Grisham talked about Haas’ previous gimmick of pretending to be other people. Springboard dropkick off the top by Morrison for two. Hard whip into the turnbuckle by Haas. Haas looks like he found a mean streak. Butterfly suplex by Haas for two. Textbook tilt-a-whirl backbreaker by Haas for another two-count. Morrison came back with kicks and punches. Knee to the face by Morrison, followed by a split-legged corkscrew moonsault for the win.

WINNER: Morrison, at 4:35. Fun little match. I’ve always been a Haas fan, but he hasn’t improved the main knock on him, which is his inability to get the crowd into his matches.

4- CM PUNK vs. EDGE

Punk worked over the arm of Edge and ended up dumping the champ to ringside. Punk hit a suicide dive onto Edge. Punk missed a move off the top but landed on his feet, only to get booted down by Edge. Full-Nelson applied by Edge. Punk got Edge on his shoulders for the GTS, but Edge rolled back and had both of Punk’s arms hooked. The two men both went for a cross-body and they collided in mid-air. Running knee-lift by Punk, then a heel kick. Springboard clothesline got the MITB holder a two-count. Punk missed a running knee though and Edge seemed to be looking for an electric chair. Punk rolled up Edge for two. Knee in the corner by Punk and he got Edge on his shoulders again for the GTS, but Edge held the rope. Edge missed a spear and went flying out of the ring. Edge opted not to return to the match.

WINNER: Punk, via count-out, at 6:23. Smart decision there by Edge- nothing for him to gain in this match and everything to lose.

After the match, Umaga came out of the crowd and gave Punk a superkick, then a spinning side slam. Samoan Spike put Punk out.

5- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Ziggler tried to talk Khali out of the match. Ziggler tried a shoulder-block to no avail. He ran the ropes again and was met with a clothesline. Hard chop in the corner by Khali. Khali missed a kick and was hung up on the top rope. Ziggler kicked at Khali’s legs, but Khali shoved him off. Ziggler grabbed a steel chair from ringside and nailed Khali in the leg with the chair, drawing a DQ. He hit him a couple more times in the leg and back.

WINNER: Khali, by DQ, at 1:15.

-Edge came out to do guest commentary for the main event.

6- JEFF HARDY vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Jericho got the advantage to start, but Hardy speared him and pounded away. They continued the back-and-forth action. Hardy looked to put Jericho away early, but Jericho left the ring to take a breather. Rey Mysterio then came out and stayed at ringside to support Hardy. Jeff went after Jericho outside the ring and brought him back in. Jericho missed a dive in the corner and fell out of the ring. Hardy whipped him into the barricade, then propelled himself off the stairs. Unfortunately, Jericho moved and Hardy took a nasty-looking bump into the barricade. The ref started counting Jeff out and he got up to nine, but Hardy made it back in. Jericho immediately went for a cover but only got two, taking the show into the last commercial break.

Jericho was still on offense out of break. Edge seemed perturbed by Rey’s presence at ringside, even though both he and Edge were cheering for Hardy in this match. Short clothesline by Hardy as both men were down. Hardy went for Whisper in the Wind but slipped on the top rope. Jericho looked like he was going to trip Hardy up anyway on it, but Jeff slipped before he could get there. Then again, he did hit it after fighting off Jericho on the top rope, so who knows. Jericho applied the Walls of Jericho. Jeff reached the ropes, much to the relief of Edge on commentary. Face-first suplex by Jeff after he made it back to his feet. Hardy to the top, but he missed the Swanton. Lionsault by Jericho found the mark for two. Y2J missed an enziguiri, but Jeff missed a Twist of Fate and Jericho tried to lock in the Walls again. Inside cradle by Jeff, countered by Jericho and both got near-falls off of it. Jericho clotheslined Hardy over the top rope and both men went to the outside. Jericho threw Hardy over the announce table and into Edge. Jericho tossed Hardy back in to the ring, garnering a two-count. Edge got on the apron and had a few words for Jericho. Roll-up by Hardy for two. I thought it was over there. Hardy walked into a boot in the corner- Jericho rolled up Hardy and put his feet on the ropes. The ref didn’t see it, but Rey did, and he got the ref’s attention. Jericho yelled at Rey then was met with a Twist of Fate. Swanton finished Jericho off.

WINNER: Hardy, at 15:20. Good match and I liked the dynamic of Rey and Edge on the outside too. It actually added to the match rather than detracted from it.

After the match, Edge backed up the ramp as Hardy came toward him. Edge went to the back and Jeff stuck around to soak in the fans’ applause. Back in the ring, Jericho turned around and right into a Seated Senton by Rey. Rey celebrated to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 12 2009, 01:54 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_31989.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BATISTA vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES

Match was joined in progress with Batista working over DiBiase. Cody then tagged in and took control momentarily while Lawler filled us in that Shane McMahon is still at a medical facility with a crushed leg. Batista fired up a comeback with a clothesline on Cody before giving him a high back body drop. Batista booted DiBiase off the apron, then he booted Cody to the floor. Cody and DiBiase then ran interference and Cody slid a chair into the ring. Batista picked it up and swung wildly, but Cody moved. Ref saw Batista with chair in hand and called for a DQ. Batista was furious while Cody and Ted celebrated their victory by out-smarting Batista.

WINNERS: Cody & Ted via DQ at 4:05 of TV time. Predicable finish to set up Batista in a three-on-one handicap match later in the show. You can probably count on one hand the number of times Ted or Cody have won matches clean in WWE, but WWE has invested considerable TV time in the duo and given them "center of attention" status with Randy Orton, so their time will come down the line when WWE presents them as credible acts who are capable of actually winning matches. (*)

2 -- Divas champion MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL vs. MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY

Match built to Mickie taking the hot tag to clean house on Jillian and Maryse, who she's gunning for the title. Jillian tried to sneak-attack Mickie, but Kelly knocked her to the floor and nailed a splash. Back in the ring, Mickie grappled Maryse and nailed her trademark DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Mickie & Kelly at 3:45. Good to see them given a decent amount of time tonight. Good program build for Mickie finally getting her Divas title shot against Maryse after two straight pins over the champ. (*)

3 -- Unified tag champion CARLITO vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK

Carlito nailed a quick dropkick right off the bat. Cole filled in the blanks that TBK requested the re-match after his loss last week. Cole and Lawler said the tag champs have a "special clause" to be able to defend the tag titles on any of the three brands. If they lose, their services are returned to the Raw brand. Kendrick scouted a springboard smash and ran up behind Carlito to shove him into the ropes. Kendrick then blocked the backcracker and shoved Carlito hard into the ringpost. Kendrick suddenly rolled up Carlito from behind for a quick pin for the win.

WINNER: The Brian Kendrick at 1:44. Kendrick gets a win. Good to see that. Hopefully WWE has a decent partner in mind for Kendrick so investing TV time in this program doesn't become a total waste. Of course, WWE has invested a total of five minutes in this mini-feud over the course of two weeks. (n/a)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ -- Special Exhibition Match

No referee for this one, so we start the clock with the official square-off between Cena and Miz. Cena took Miz down then shot Show a look. Miz made Cena pay for not keeping his eye on the ball, as he went right to the injured ribs. Miz screamed at Cena to look at him, then he pounded on him some more with kicks to the gut. Miz nailed a running clothesline in the corner, but he missed with a second clothesline. Cena made his traditional comeback with the clotheslines, sit-out slam, and Five Knuckle Shuffle. He then called for the end while staring down Show, but Vickie Guerrero came on screen and said she's putting an end to this exhibition. Vickie declared that it's obvious Cena has no chance against Big Show.

Post-match: Miz grappled Cena from behind and gave him a DDT in center ring. Miz declared himself the victor with a record of 3-0. Miz then ducked out of the ring and applauded himself for his efforts. Big Show then approached the ring, smiled, and walked away without doing anything.

WINNER: No Decision at 2:47. Just a segment to set up Cena vs. Show at Judgment Day. Good use of Miz, even if he wasn't in a position of control before Vickie ended things, but he was positioned well after the heelish sneak attack on Cena. I like Miz's first three weeks on the Raw brand. (n/a)

5 -- SANTINA MARELLA vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Rosa Mendes)

Crowd chanted for "Santina" after the opening bell. Beth landed an abrupt elbow smash after a little posing from Santina. Beth then clotheslined Santina over the top rope to the floor. She followed with a press slam through the ropes back into the ring. Beth then slapped on an abdominal stretch before putting him/her in the Masterlock. Cole rhetorically asked how long this feud has been going on for, and he suggested two months. More like two years. Beth had enough and blasted Santina with elbow strikes, but Santina rolled her up for a surprise pin and the win.

WINNER: Santina at 2:40. Just an attempt at comedy to fill a slot on the show. So many other wrestlers who could be receiving TV time after the Draft and WWE continues to focus on this well-played-out storyline. (n/a)

6 -- U.S. champion MVP & KOFI KINGSTON vs. WILLIAM REGAL & MATT HARDY

Match was joined in progress with Regal working over Kofi. Meanwhile, Matt used the loaded cast from the ring apron to cut off Kofi's comeback attempt. Matt then tagged in and worked with jeans and white sneakers on before tagging out to Regal.

Kofi countered a Regal mat attack with a head scissors and made the hot tag to MVP, who unloaded on Regal with forearm smashes. MVP landed a big right hand before dropping him across his knee and firing up the crowd. MVP wanted the Big Ballin' elbow drop and he connected. Matt broke up a pin attempt, then Kofi kicked Matt in the cast. Kofi measured Matt for a splash, but Regal chucked Kofi over the top rope to the floor. MVP then tackled Regal in the ring. Meanwhile, Matt took off up the ramp and clear out of sight. Matt then delivered the Chono Boot and Playmaker on Regal for the pin and the win. Lawler played down the babyface victory, saying it was two men beating on one.

WINNERS: MVP & Kofi at 6:26. Babyfaces really didn't benefit since, as Lawler pointed out, they won with an unfair advantage. Overall, just a match to officially start the in-ring portion of the MVP vs. Regal feud, promote Hardy's whiny heel character, and allow Kofi to fly around the ring to show off athleticism. A bit sloppy at times trying to mix all of those elements together. (*1/4)

7 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. BATISTA -- officially a handicap match

Bell sounded to start with a one-on-one match with DiBiase and Rhodes nowhere to be found. Batista clotheslined Orton to the floor, then Orton tried to "slither" away from the ringside area, but Batista pulled him back to the floor and tossed him into the ring for a spinebuster. Batista then went to the floor and grabbed a steel chair. Batista then smashed Orton with the chair to earn another DQ tonight.

Post-match: Batista went to work on Orton by smashing his ankle just like Orton did to Shane McMahon last week. Batista landed chair shots to the back some more, then he went to the floor and grabbed the ring steps. Well, they were stuck, so he violently kicked them to force separation. Batista landed another chair shot on Orton's ankle, stared down the ref, then chucked the chair out of the ring. Batista then lifted up the steel steps, but Cody Rhodes stormed the ring. Batista easily gave him the Batista bomb, though. Ted DiBiase then snuck into the ring from behind and attacked Batista. Orton tried to sneak back in with an RKO, but Batista flung him away. Batista speared DiBiase out of his boots, then Batista picked up the ring steps and chucked them at Orton, who dodged the steps on the floor while selling an ankle injury. "Batista has snapped!" Cole declared.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 0:58. Conclusion of a wild storyline to set up Batista being in control leading to the PPV with Orton in jeopardy of losing the title. It means a very strong probablity Orton is retaining on Sunday, but a good way to plant seeds of the heel champion being in jeopardy to encourage WWE fans to potentially become PPV buyers to see Orton get his full comeuppance for his dastardly deeds the past few weeks. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 13 2009, 04:23 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 5-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32015.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Henry went right for the back to begin his attack. He squeezed the life out of Dreamer before putting a boot on his throat to squeeze the air out of his lungs. Announcers were snoozing on the job as Henry continued his methodical attack. Dreamer blocked a corner splash with a boot, then went to the second rope, but Henry caught him in mid-air for a bear hug that he turned into a brick wall splash. Henry measured Dreamer for an elbow, but Dreamer moved and dropkicked Henry in the knees to take him off his feet for the first time. Dreamer then landed a running dropkick in the corner and nailed a DDT. He made the cover, but Henry put his big ol' foot on the bottom rope to block a three count. Dreamer tried to follow with a small package, but Henry blocked by sitting down on Dreamer's forearm. He followed with the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Henry in 5:00. Dreamer had his standard "moment of brilliance" to look half-way credible against Henry, but we knew how this was going down with Henry taking the victory and Dreamer's quest to the ECW Title continuing to be derailed. Announcers took a nap on this one. (*)

2 -- TYSON KIDD vs. FINLAY

Finlay started on the offensive, then Kidd applied an ankle hold. Finlay suddenly came back with a crazy-looking double ankle lock hold where he snapped Kidd's back off the ground across his knee. I don't know what that was, but it was awesome. Kidd tried to recover on the outside, then Finlay gave chase and Kidd smashed him into the apron. Finlay then pulled the trick by catching Kidd inside the ring apron. He took too long rolling Kidd back into the ring, so Kidd dropkicked him through the ropes. Nice back-and-forth action with them going to break with Kidd in control.

Back from break, Kidd was still on control with a mat hold looking for a submission. "Ask him, ref, ask him!" Put it on a t-shirt already. Kidd worked the left shoulder. "Ask him. Ask him, ref. I'll break his arm!" So great watching and listening to Kidd work a mat hold. Kidd then took his shoulder hold into a twisting drop across his knee. Nice. Finlay was apparently fired up from being one-upped in the innovative hold department, so he fired off a round of clotheslines. He hit the Rolling Hills drop, but Kidd kicked out. Finlay then wanted the Celtic Cross, but D.H. Smith jumped into the ring and smashed Finlay for a DQ.

Post-match: Here we go. They're calling him David Hart Smith, by the way. Smith looking huge. Not in a steroid-huge looking way, though. A more "physically-imposing heel" kind of a way. He beat up on Finlay and beat him up some more before Finlay tried to make a comeback. Kidd then snuck in behind with the shillelagh and smashed Finlay in the knees. Smith then chucked Finlay to the floor and sent him head-first into the announce table. Back in the ring, Smith and Kidd set up the Hart Attack old school combo from Bret and Neidhart. Natalya then showed up and raised the arms of Kidd and Hart to officially announce the new Hart Foundation. Crowd booed them heavily. Good to see them generating heat for this. Hart Foundation v.2 then walked out of the ring in celebration.

WINNER: Finlay via DQ in 10:00. Solid TV match leading to the excellent post-match angle to give ECW a new stable and a new program they can really work with to create compelling TV. Smith looked very good, but we'll see how he looks in the ring in future weeks. (**)

3 -- KOZLOV vs. CHAD COLLYER

Plenty of "Cold War" references to Kozlov from Striker to bring us back to 1982. Striker said Russian PM Vladimir Putin is a huge Kozlov fan. He then threw in a line about U.S. president Obama, calling him "the Communist in the White House." He followed by muttering something under his breath about having to say it. Kozlov easily finished off the punching bag with the Iron Curtain slam for the win.

Post-match: Mathews entered the ring to interview Kozlov. What sets you apart from the other WWE stars? Kozlov said he's trained by Russian Sambo fighters, which makes him superior with great comb-in-a-tion skills and disc-i-pline. He said Russians always dominate inter-nat-ional comp-e-tion. He will eliminate everyone in E-C-double-u. And that darn punching bag better not show up next week.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00. Just a squash to establish Kozlov as a threat to the American way of life and all that patriotic business from 1982. Holding pattern for Kozlov before he's pushed into the ECW Title picture. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2009, 11:57 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32060.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN -- non-title match

Shelton and Rey locked up and Shelton tossed Rey to the outside. Morrison said Shelton could be great if he got his head on straight. Back in the ring, Shelton kicked Rey in the gut, but Rey switched a waistlock into chucking Shelton to the floor. Rey then flew off the apron with a huracanrana taking Shelton clear down to the mat. Morrison liked the athleticism. Back in the ring, Rey wanted a finish, but Shelton blocked with a gutbuster across his knee. Rey's ribcage took the worst of that.

Shelton then knocked Rey to the mat to help him some buy some time. Back in the ring, Shelton grabbed a waistlock back in the ring, then Rey fought back with elbow strikes after catching his breath. Rey then set up Shelton for a 619, but Shelton came to his feet and kicked Rey right out of the ring to the floor. Grab a break with Rey in jeopardy.

Back from break, Shelton was stretching Rey mid-ring. He then chucked Rey high in the air and covered him for a two count. Shelton then slapped on a seated ab stretch to continue working on Rey's mid-section. At 10:00, Rey kicked back with a strike to the stomach before Shelton ran him over with a knee to the gut. Shelton continued to work the mid-section as the fans tried to rally behind Rey. Rey came up holding his right knee following that previous gut to the knee, by the way, then he tried going up top, but Shelton hung him upside down.

Shelton tried to charge for a splash, but Rey back-flipped out of the way and positioned himself up top for a sentaun splash. Rey then nailed a twisting press off the second rope for a two count. He wanted the wheel barrow, but Shelton blocked with a German suplex for a close call. Rey then nailed a sweet Tornado DDT off Shelton's shoulders before setting up the 619 and connecting. Rey then sprung to his feet and nailed the springboard splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio in 14:00. Looks like that bad knee crept up on Rey again, as he was favoring the knee at the end of the match. Excellent TV match, though. Great action and athleticism. Both men really delivered a stand-out performance and Shelton continues to look better and better when given more "multiple-segment" matches to complete stories in the ring. (***)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) -- non-title match

Henry shoved Christian down after their initial lock-up, then Henry smiled down at Christian. Henry drove Christian into the corner before stomping him down. Henry continued to assault Christian, who finally dipped out of the ring to make Henry exert energy going in and out of the ring. Christian then dropkicked Henry through the ropes and they cut to break.

Back from break, Henry was back in control working over Christian on the mat. He then slapped on a bear hug until Christian broke free, only to have Henry squash him in the corner. Striker said Jack Swagger must love what he sees with Christian being softened up for J-Day. Henry missed with a second splash attempt, then Christian fired up with clotheslines that rocked Henry but didn't knock him off his feet. Christian went up top for a second dropkick and Henry finally fell, but Henry press-slammed Christian out of a pin attempt. Love that kick-out spot. Christian tried the Killswitch, but Henry blocked and clotheslined him inside-out.

Battle moved to the top turnbuckle where Christian attempted a Tornado DDT, but Henry pulled him down to the mat. Henry then missed with a sit-down butt splash and ate the mat. Christian followed with a turnaround splash from the second rope and covered Henry for a pin and the win.

WINNER: Christian in 10:00. Really nice match, actually. They had good chemistry and the announcers really did a nice job of selling the idea of Henry softening up Christian for the ECW Title match against Swagger. Good team work all-around. (**)

3 -- BIG SHOW vs. HORNSWOGGLE -- Exhibition Match

Bell sounded. Ref was in the ring for this Exhibition Match unlike Cena's on Raw. Show walked right up to Hornswoggle and milked the impending destruction. Show then lifted up Horny and teased press-slamming him to all four corners of the ring. He then opted just to place Horny on the top rope. Show then went down to the mat and invited Hornswoggle to nail the tadpole splash. Horny didn't know what to do, so he slowly positioned himself and went for the finish, but Show moved out of the way and stared down Hornswoggle. He then put Show on the top rope again and Show teased the big right hand strike.

Suddenly, Goldust's music hit. Wha? Goldust made the save and went after Show for a DQ. Oddities v.2? Show thwarted Goldust' save and nailed a chokeslam in center ring. Horny was on the floor by now. Show then put Goldust in a Camel Clutch and wrenched down on his back. Horny couldn't do anything about it before Show finally dropped the hold and left the ring. Hornswoggle then entered the ring and checked on Goldust, who sold a back injury. Show dominant going into J-Day against Cena. One last shot of Hornswoggle agonizing over Goldust to close the show.

WINNER: Big Show via DQ in 3:00. Could have used a cameo from Cena to reinforce the Show-Cena match, but an okay effort to promote J-Day. Goldust and Hornswoggle together ... Well, it is WWE. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 16 2009, 09:27 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (dorect link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32072.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley) vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS

Lots of high-flying early on. No real build-up to the moves, though, as they were surely rushed with only a few minutes of TV time allotted to the match. Sabin in control early, and West said Daniels must be worn out doing double-duty as Daniels and Suicide. Ask.com question: "What name did A.J. Styles first wrestle as?" Two minutes in, Jay Lethal and Consequences Creed came out on stage for a closer look. West accused Daniels of fraud by trying to pick up two paychecks. Well, just check the address on Suicide's tax return.

West started complaining about Jeff Jarrett overload while Daniels made a comeback. He knee-stomped Sabin to the mat before landing an STO. West snapped to attention that they just saw the STO on Impact last week from Suicide. Daniels wanted Angel's Wings, but Shelley broke it up. Incompetent ref wasn't paying attention. Sabin then nailed a springboard clothesline for a two count. Sabin tried a Tornado DDT, but Daniels blocked. Daniels knocked Shelley off the apron, then he hit a modified Rock Bottom to set up the Best Moonsault Ever on Sabin for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Daniels in 5:00. Daniels not quite as crisp as I remember him back in the day. Perhaps it's the long pants instead of the biker shorts he used to wear. Nice build-up to the Big Reveal of Suicide as Daniels...or not. (*)

2 -- SAMOA JOE vs. ERIC YOUNG

Bell sounded and Joe smashed Young. West said Young is going to learn a valuable lesson about keeping his mouth shut. Match moved to the floor where Jiggly Joe smashed Young into the ring apron before placing a chair down ringside. Joe then smashed Young by chucking the chair into Young's face. West said he has love for Joe driving the Frontline crazy. Is there still a Frontline? Back in the ring, Joe slapped on the rear naked choke and Young fought the hold. Joe finally locked it in full and Young passed out in the hold. Shady Hebner called for the bell. Tenay got around to plugging Joe vs. Kevin Nash at Sacrifice. Post-match: Joe scooped up a lifeless Young and hoisted him on his shoulders to leave the Impact Zone.

WINNER: Joe via TKO in 2:00. Squash for Joe. He seems like just another generic mid-card thug right now. Waiting for the Taz reveal to bring him back to life... (n/a)

3 -- CUTE KIP (w/Knockouts champion Angelina Love) vs. AWESOME KONG (w/Raisha Saeed)

After an initial feeling-out process, they locked up and did battle. Kong introduced a chair and cracked the chair over Kip's head. She then put the chair on Kip's head as he was on the mat and landed consecutive big splashes that freaked Angelina. Kong then put Kip on the M*A*S*H stretcher and ref Rudy did a very fast ten count to give Kong the win. Security then hauled Kip away from the ring.

WINNER: Kong in 3:00. Continuing to re-build Kong for her title match against Angelina. Standard booking and just fine. (*)

4 -- X Division champion SUICIDE & AMAZING RED vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS w/Rob Terry) -- Team 3D tag team tournament semi-final match

West said tongue-in-cheek Suicide looks a bit sluggish after having to change into his outfit after wrestling in the opening match. Tenay said apparently LAX lost their Feast or Fired briefcases when BI took them out of action. Well that sucks. Speaking of sucks, West ripped Jarrett for the "Day in the Life" video feature on the show. He said it's been the longest day of his life. BI was in control of the match early on, then Red snapped off a swinging front-slam to make the tag to Suicide. Match broke down with some confusion among BI that wasn't edited well. Al four men in the ring before Red took out Magnus on the floor. Back in the ring, Williams shoved Suicide down. Guns then stormed the ring and hit Suicide with a superkick combo behind the ref's back. Williams with a double knee drop on Suicide for the win.

Post-match: Guns grappled Amazing Red and gave him a double-team neckbreaker combo to send a message to Suicide. Sabin said they're going to de-mask Suicide. Suddenly, Lethal and Creed stormed the ring to square off against Guns. Who is Suicide? All four men held down Suicide, who tried to escape. They tried to take the mask off, but suddenly Christopher Daniels stormed the ring and fought off the four X Division kiddos. West said he's still convinced Daniels has been in the Suicide outfit. Tenay was so mad: "You're such an idiot. You can never admit when you're wrong." Daniels gave Creed the Angel's Wings before Daniels and Suicide had a stand-off alone in the ring. West said he will spare no expense figuring out this mess with his own investigation.

WINNERS: British Invasion in 5:00. Finals are Beer Money vs. British Invasion. Match was just there and no one will remember it. Not exactly a great example of tag wrestling TNA keeps promoting the heck out of. (3/4*)

5 -- KEVIN NASH vs. NO LIMIT -- handicap match

Bell sounded and No Limit tried to double-team Nash with some wacky moves and gestures. Nash was knocked off his feet with a missile dropkick, but Nash came back with a chokeslam. Kevin "Kenny Rogers" Nash then used the elbow brace as a weapon. He then took his time taking off the Bonds gear and gave Naito a Jackknife Powerbomb. He made the cover for the easy win.

Post-match: Nash took the mic and looked deep into the camera. He said this world runs on one thing: violence. Nash said we need it. He said there's a Nation of Violence running around TNA, but at Sacrifice, there's going to be violence all right. It's name isn't going to be Samoa Joe; the name will be Kevin Nash. Oh yeah, there's a PPV to promote. Tenay and West were too busy complaining to each other to promote Joe vs. Nash at the PPV.

WINNER: Kevin Nash in 2:00. Just a squash to give Nash some work in the ring before facing Samoa Joe next Sunday. (n/a)

6 -- JETHRO HOLLIDAY vs. BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) -- I Quit match

Bell sounded and Booker fired off a round of chops that Jethro no-sold before knocking down Booker with right hand blows. West picked up the rip-on-Styles's promo sentiment by sarcastically saying Styles doesn't have to keep playing that card about being "down and out, pull myself up by the bootstraps." Booker knocked Jethro to the outside as Jethro started to sing instead of saying I Quit. Jethro refused to Quit again, then he fought back with right hand slaps to the gut, then the chest. Booker came back with a spin kick, though. He then pounded on Jethro's forehead before Jethro talked trash about Sharmell instead of saying he quits. Booker missed with an axe kick, then Jethro hit a big boot that knocked Booker down.

Jethro returned the favor by pounding away on Booker's forehead. Booker refused to give up. "Hell no!" he shouted. Booker raked the eyes, but Jethro ran him over with an inside-out clothesline. Suddenly, Sharmell slipped a chair into the ring before running interference. Booker then popped Jethro over the head with a chair shot. Another chair shot to the head tonight. Goodness. Booker followed with an axe kick before threatening to pound him with more right hands to the forehead, but Jethro said he's done. Booker wins.

WINNER: Booker in 5:00. Actually a good TV match. Jethro looked sharp and Booker showed off his "flashes of athleticism" when needed. Jethro quitting after an axe kick was lame, but there was no way out of the finish. One of the better TV main events they've had in a while. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 17 2009, 11:04 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32107.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- C.M. PUNK & JOHN MORRISON vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN & CHARLIE HAAS

Grisham said Morrison gave tips on having abs like his: fruit the morning, protein at night, and about a thousand sit-ups in between. Back and forth action in the early minutes. Morrison and Punk fended off a double-team attempt by the heels and knocked them to the floor as they cut to a break at 5:00.

The heels settled into offense after the break. Morrison made a comeback with elbows and then hot-tagged Punk at 12:00. Punk threw a barrage of kicks and clotheslines at Shelton. He grazed Benjamin with a kick, but Haas tagged in and overhead suplexed Punk from behind. Haas settled into a chinlock. Ross said this is the best version of Haas & Benjamin he's ever seen. When Shelton tagged in, Ross said he shouldn't go into cruise control. That may have been more than a storyline-oriented comment. Shelton stayed in control and then tagged in Haas quickly. He settled into a chinlock. Punk broke out of it by elbowing Haas, even though a ton of light was showing before he threw the elbows and he could have just backed out of it. Really lazy looking application. The pace picked up as Morrison got a hot-tag. Morrison gave Hass a knee to the head and then climbed to the top. Shelton met him at the top, but Morrison shoved him down. Punk clotheslined him to the floor and then Morrison finished Haas with a springboard corkscrew moonsault.

WINNERS: Morrison & Punk in 16:00.
STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Should have been better. Haas and Benjamin just aren't sharp or flashy relative to the more motivated, contemporary styles of Morrison and Punk. They wrestle like it's a 1992 house show.

2 -- JEFF HARDY vs. RICKY ORTIZ

During his ring intro, Ortiz said you beat half of your opponents through hard work, the other half through believing in yourself. He said to beat Hardy, he needs the crowd to "Rally Up!" for him. Ross said he sounds like a motivational speaker. Ortiz headbutted Hardy to the mat early, then went for an early pin after checking him to the mat. He got a one count. He followed with a couple flying knees and scored a two count. Ortiz settled into a chinlock. Ross said Ortiz will really be sounding his own horn if he beats Hardy tonight. Hardy caught Ortiz with an elbow as he charged at him, then hit a quick Twist of Fate and the Swanton. It was a sudden turnaround for the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 3:00.
STAR RATING: * -- Short, but good. Ortiz looked good on offense, and the sudden decisive comeback was well done.

3 -- ALICIA FOX & MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. GAIL KIM & MELINA

Has there ever been a WWE women's tag match with a Caucasian, Asian-American, African-America, and Hispanic all in the match at once. At 3:00 McCool interfered by yanking Kim off the ring apron and banging her head against the apron. The ref didn't see it. Fox broke up Melina's attempt to finish of McCool at 5:00. Kip shoved Fox into the ringside barrier. Kim powerbombed and cradled McCool center-ring for the win.

WINNER: Melina & Kim in 6:00.
STAR RATING: *1/4

4 -- JIMMY WANG YANG vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Ross said Wang is his favorite Asian redneck. Grisham agreed. Wang wouldn't shake Ziggler's hand, so he shoved him. Wang retaliated with a snap armdrag into an armlock. Ziggler came back with a gut-wrench slam and then a headlock. Ziggler dominated for a couple minutes, including a full nelson. He predicted Wang would tap out. He's really vocal in his matches, something Ross noted. At 4:00 Wang came back and hit a spin hook hook. He flipped off the top rope, but Ziggler moved. Wang landed on his feet, but Ziggler gave him his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler in 5:00
STAR RATING: *

5 -- R-TRUTH vs. MIKE KNOX

Ross again said Knox is a different kind of WWE athlete. He said he wears glasses and is a different person in the back and transforms in the ring. Not sure where they're going with this, if anywhere. Truth slingshot himself onto Knox on the floor at 1:00. He threw Knox back into the ring. Grisham said Truth wants championships in WWE is looking to stack up some victories. You don't hear talk of mid-carders winning matches for the purpose of earning title shots often enough. It is a little touch that gives meaning to a match like this beyond the "personal rivalry" angle. At 3:00 he scored a clean win over Knox with a spinning corkscrew elbow.

WINNER: Truth in 3:00.
STAR RATING: * -- Not a lot to the match, but what there was was solid. An interesting finish; certainly it was a vote for Truth over Knox on the totem pole of mid-carders on the rise. It's tough to push Knox as a rising killer heel if he's doing a three minute clean job to Truth. He's instead in that Snitsky category.

6 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE

Ross said all roads on Smackdown should lead to the World Title. If that's not where you're trying to go as a wrestler, why are you even around, he said. At 3:00 Jericho tossed Edge to the floor and celebrated as if it were just a matter of time to victory.

When Jericho pursued Edge, Edge reversed him into the ringside steps. Ross said the match is a battle of egos and momentum. Edge dropped Jericho over the security wall and then rolled him into the ring and scored a two count. Jericho climbed to the top rope. Edge met him. They fought and knocked each other to the floor. They cut to a break at 5:00.

Edge scored a near fall as they returned from the break. Jericho came back and settled into a keylock into a hammerlock. Jericho slammed Edge into his arm Tully Blanchard style. Jericho shouted, "Who's show is it? Come on!" Jericho tried to score a pin with his feet on the middle rope for leverage. The ref saw it. Jericho argued with the ref for stopping his count. Edge scooped Jericho into a pin and put his lets on the middle rope, too. The ref saw that, too. Edge applied a sharpshooter. Jericho reached the bottom rope to force a break at 12:00. Jericho came back with a Boston Crab mid-ring. Ross wondered if Edge would decide to save himself for his title match on Sunday. He managed to grab the bottom rope. As Jericho argued with the ref, Edge speared him and Jericho tumbled to the floor. The ref counted to six before Jericho rolled back into the ring. Jericho grabbed a chair seconds later and brought it into the ring. Edge kicked the chair into Jericho's face. The ref called for the bell, DQing Jericho for bringing it into the ring.

WINNER: Edge via DQ in 14:00.
STAR RATING: **3/4

-Edge then picked up the chair. Jeff Hardy charged to the ring and ducked an Edge chairshot. He gave Edge a Twist of Fate onto a chair. Then he climbed to the top rope and dove onto Jericho on the floor. C.M. Punk then walked out with his briefcase and decided to cash in his briefcase. Umaga, though, went after Punk again before the bell rang. Punk knocked him out of the ring with two briefcase chots, then slingshot himself onto Umaga on the floor. Punk showed fire on the floor, but Umaga got up and gave him a chop to the throat. Hardy then went after Edge in the ring again with a spear. Edge rolled to the floor. Hardy followed and tore off his shirt as he pursued him into the crowd. Meanwhile, Jericho stood on the stage looking on. Rey attacked him from behind and pounded on his head and kicked him in the face. Grisham and Ross tried to call the chaos as they plugged that these wrestlers would all be facing each other on Sunday night. Good finish to the show, really giving a sense of intensity to the key Smackdown matches at Judgment Day.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2009, 12:56 pm
WWE Judgment Day PPV Results: 5-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_32118.shtml)

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. UMAGA

Bell sounded and the crowd opened with a loud "C-M-Punk" chant. Ross said Punk is having a nice family reunion tonight, but the annoying neighbor is crashing the party. Ross so great at illustrating a point with a good ol' story. Umaga blocked a turnaround splash early on and whipped Punk down hard to the mat. Match went on for a while with Umaga in control trying to wear down Punk, who teased comebacks including a scoop slam attempt that back-fired. Ross said Punk has a tendency to be confrontational according to his peers. Confrontational Punk tried to make another comeback, but Umaga nailed him with a clean uppercut. Umaga missed a dive from the second rope, then both men recovered to their feet.

Punk landed an elbow strike, then he pulled the top rope down and Umaga flew over the top rope to the floor. Punk then landed a plancha on the floor. Back in the ring, Punk blasted him with kick and knee strikes. Umaga was not knocked down, then Punk landed a running knee in the corner, but Umaga blocked the bulldog with a corner splash. No matter, Punk came off the second rope with a bulldog for a two count. Punk up top for a lariat splash and a close nearfall. He tried to set up the G2S, but Umaga countered with a Samoan Drop for a close two count. Umaga then teased the Samoan Spike, but Punk ducked and landed kick strikes to the head. He wanted the G2S again, but Umaga slipped out and nailed a crescent kick, then running butt bomb, and Samoan Spike in a matter of seconds for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Umaga at 11:55. Decent opener. Interesting finish with Umaga picking up the win, as it shows who WWE will be placing more emphasis on going forward. Certainly seems like a Rey vs. Umaga program for the IC Title is in the works based on this clean PPV win for Umaga.  (**)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. JACK SWAGGER

Match moved to the floor early on and Swagger rammed Christian stomach-first into the ringpost. Swagger then stood on Christian's ribs for added effect before rolling him into the ring to begin an attack on the mid-section. Christian came back with double pendulum leg kicks out of the corner before going up top and missing a diving headbutt. Swagger tried to follow with a gutwrench powerbomb, but Christian blocked and made Swagger run into the top turnbuckle. Story of the match being Swagger a dumb oaf who runs into brick walls chasing the roadrunner. They went down at 7:30 with a double clothesline before recovering to their feet. Swagger wanted the electric chair, but Christian blocked, only to have Swagger victory roll him for a two count. Swagger then tried a small package with a handful of tights, but ref saw it and stopped his count. First time ever. Swagger teased the gutwrench, but Christian blocked and ripped down Swagger's singlet straps. Christian then rolled up Swagger and grabbed a handful of the singlet straps in between two and three to score the pin and the win.

WINNER: Christian at 9:35. Disappointing match. Just didn't have a flow and they were a bit off at times. Backlash match was better. Just an off night for both men. (*1/2)
 
3 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN (w/Charlie Haas) vs. JOHN MORRISON

Shelton aggressively went on the attack with a t-bone suplex that dropped Morrison square on his head. Morrison then dumped Shelton to the floor and teased a highspot or two. Shelton walked away, then Morrison went for a sick 450 double-flip splash, but the spot looked off because Shelton had to run into harm's way to take the blow and not let Morrison break his neck crashing to the mat. Crowd came to life for the spot, though, so it worked out well live. Shelton then regained control when Morrison was distracted by Haas ringside. Shelton grounded Morrison with mat holds before they rammed heads mid-ring. Morrison made a comeback before bringing the crowd to love with a multiple revolutions head scissors into a Russian legsweep. Beautiful move. Morrison then landed a running knee strike to the head for a two count. Morrison then tried a springboard spin kick, but Shelton caught him in mid-air and tried to chuck him across the ring into the turnbuckle. Looked awkward. Morrison then smashed Haas off the apron and avoided a corner splash. Morrison followed with the Flying Chuck springboard kick, then a corkscrew split-legged splash onto Shelton for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Morrison at 10:12. Had its moments. Some were quite brilliant. Otherwise, crowd wasn't into 90 percent of the action. Tough to gauge match quality when the story of the PPV thus far has been a typically hot Chicago crowd being un-typically quiet tonight. (**1/2)
 
4 -- Intercontinental champion REY MYSTERIO vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- IC Title match

Bell sounded and crowd with a loud "Y2J" chant. Jericho dominated early after blocking a top rope attempt and smashing Rey knee-first into the top ringpost. Rey tried to gather himself on the floor on that bad wheel. Jericho then knocked Rey to the floor and smiled for everyone to see how pleased he was with himself. Rey suddenly came back with a kick to the head to set up the 619, but Jericho popped up and tossed Rey across the ring. Rey then tried to come back with a head scissors, but Jericho had a sweet counter with a spinning backbreaker for a two count. So fluid. Jericho then hung Rey in the ropes and whipped him hard into the middle rope for another close call. Jericho teased a de-masking, but Rey fought him off and hit a seated splash. He followed with a crossbody for a two count.

At 8:30, Jericho and Rey had a great counter/re-counter exchange leading to Jericho nailing a backbreaker for a two count. Rey then set up Jericho for the 619, but Jericho moved. Rey tried to follow with a huracanrana, but Jericho caught him mid-air for the Walls of Jericho. Rey blocked, then corkscrewed Jericho to the middle rope for the 619, but Jericho grabbed his legs and slapped on the Walls of Jericho this time. Rey managed to escape and turn it into a small package for a two count. Rey tried to come back with a rana, but Jericho blocked with a powerbomb and a two count. Such great action. At 12:00, Jericho talked trash before eating the middle turnbuckle. Rey then nailed an abrupt 619 around the ringpost ala WM22 in Chicago. Rey then popped up to the top rope for the big splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey at 12:30 to retain the IC Title. Excellent PPV match. Really wish it would have gone another five minutes and been a true show-stealer. They really picked up the intensity of the show right there with some amazing action, great counters, and highspots the audience really bought into. Rey was awesome, Jericho was awesome, and they were awesome together from start to finish. (****)
 
Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2009, 12:57 pm
5 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. BATISTA -- WWE Title match

Bell sounded and the announcers said Batista was involved in an altercation earlier this weekend. Lawler said he had eight stitches in his eye as a result. Also, Orton dipped to the floor when the bell sounded to make Batista wait a bit longer for initial contact. Orton took a rest on the floor again, then Batista ran out of the corner with a clothesline. He kicked Orton in the back before sitting down on his lower back. Orton gained control at 4:00, then stood over Batista and did the old-school arms-extended pose from 2005. Crowd booed that heavily. Orton grabbed a basic chinlock and Batista escaped with elbow strikes before Orton nailed the fallaway backbreaker for a two count. Orton went back to the chinlock, then Batista escaped, and Orton re-applied. Batista escaped and Orton snapped off a nice dropkick. He then picked up the crowd intensity with that trademark horizontal DDT from the second rope.

At 8:30, Orton stalked cough-and-wheeze Batista for the RKO like a snake, but Batista remained on the ground. Orton then re-thought his plan to nail The Punt, but Batista was playing opossum and nailed a spear as Orton charged. Both men then came to their feet and they traded punches with crowd doing yeah/boo. Batista then scooped up Orton for a standing powerslam and a two count only at 10:00. Orton then rolled to the floor told the ref to start his ten count. Batista was not going to stand for Orton trying to get counted out, so he chased Orton around the ring. Orton tried to hug the ringpost, but Batista broke him off and tossed him into the ring for a clothesline and a two count.

Tree-hugging Orton then tried to grab a steel chair ringside, but Batista blocked. Batista then went up top (wha?) and nailed a nice-looking flying shoulder tackle for a two count. Batista teased the Batistabomb, but Orton blocked and rolled to the floor once again. He then grabbed his WWE Title belt and tried to run away clutching the belt, but Batista pursued him and tossed him back into the ring. Batista ducked a belt shot and nailed a spinebuster. Orton freaked as Batista grappled him for the Batistabomb, but Orton punched out. Batista blocked the RKO, then Orton moved out of the way of a spear in the corner. Orton, enraged, wanted the RKO, but Batista shoved him away into the ref. Orton and ref had a stop-and-collect-themselves moment, then Orton reared back and slapped ref Chioda. Ref called for the bell for a DQ and Batista put his hands on his head in disgust that he won, but Orton kept the belt. Classic Orton storyline.

Post-match: Legacy stormed the ring to help Orton with a three-on-one beating on Batista. Suddenly, Ric Flair's music hit. Oh snap. Flair stormed the ring in dress clothes as the announcers freaked about Flair being here. Flair looked to be in great shape as he fought off Legacy. Batista then dropped Orton with the Batistabomb before Flair ripped off a round of chops on folks. Flair then helped Batista up and they had a stare down with Legacy with Batista smiling. Six-man tag with Triple H next month?

WINNER: Batista via DQ at 14:45. Really nice storyline-driven match. Not the most aesthetically-pleasing at times, but both men put in a really nice effort and Orton played the snake heel role very well. Flashes of great wrestling storytelling at times in this one. Flair's surprise return was a memorable moment, but not as memorable since he was just on WWE TV a month ago. (***)
 
6 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW -- Don't call it an Exhibition match

They danced around the ring without locking up as Show simply maintained that smile. Crowd with a dueling "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks" chant. "Cena Sucks" part could have passed for "C-M-Punk." In any event, Show finally got his paws on Cena and punched him in the stomach to work on the injured ribs. Show then went into a methodical wear-down on the ribs as the fans picked up another dueling chant. Show went from smiley to scowling as he continued to beat down Cena. Cole said he lost his smile. Anyways, Cena lost an armband in the corner and Show tossed it away before missing with a big splash. Cena wasn't going to stand for wasted merch, so he fired up with a running chopblock at 10:00. Cena then dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle and Show came to his feet. Cena clutched his ribs and approached Show for the FU, but Show blocked with a chokeslam attempt, only to have Cena counter into a DDT. He then tried to slap on the STFU, but he couldn't wrap it on.

Show pounded Cena back to the mat before going to the corner for a Vader Bomb ... and connecting. Ref made the count, but Cena kicked out. On the opposite end of the ring, Show wanted another VB, but Cena moved. Show kicked Cena away trying to follow with another STFU, then Cena came back with a running boot on the apron and top rope guillotine drop. Cena tried the STFU a third time, but Show shooed him away like a fly. Show then kicked Cena in the gut and wanted a powerbomb, but he then dumped Cena back over his head with a front-stomach drop. Innovative. Show called for a Five Dollar Footlong before clutching his right fist for the Big Turkey & Cheese Blow. Cena wanted an Italian BMT, though, as ducked The Punch to transfer right into the FU. Announcers came out of their seats as Cena followed through with the FU for the pin and the win. After the match, Cena went over to Alfonso Soriano ringside and hugged it up with him. They then did the "You Can't See Me" for the camera and hugged it up again. Nice moment.

WINNER: Cena at 14:59. Really nice finish. Something Pat Patterson would have booked to put the babyface in jeopardy of taking the heel's decisive finisher before the babyface avoids it and nails the super-human finish for the win. Classic Cena booking. Strong conclusion to an otherwise slow match for about 10-12 minutes. (**1/2)

7 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. JEFF HARDY -- World Hvt. Title match

Jeff took initial control with a series of arm drags before Edge landed a knee to the gut in the corner. He then knocked Edge to the floor and landed a splash on the outside. Back in the ring, Jeff wanted the Whisper in the Wind a little too early in the match and Edge moved out of the way. Edge then shoved Jeff to the apron and knocked him to the floor with a running smash to the back. Back in the ring, Edge went to work on Jeff's lower back. Jeff fired back with a series of clotheslines at 9:00, but missed with a dropkick when Edge grabbed the ropes.

Suddenly, Jeff came back with a Sharpshooter in center ring. He had a unique overhand grip to maintain the hold as Edge fought the hold to reach the bottom rope for a break. The action moved to the top turnbuckle where Jeff nailed a nice sunset flip powerbomb for a two count. Jeff knocked Edge off the apron to the floor before clearing the Smackdown announce table and part of the guardrail padding. Jeff sent Edge into the exposed guardrail before ramming him head-first into a TV monitor. Jeff wanted to run off the guardrail onto Edge, but Edge speared him in mid-air right into the ground. Ouch.

Jeff recovered and crawled over to the ring before jumping into the ring at nine. Edge, frustrated, picked up his attack on the lower back. Jeff blocked a spear off the apron, though, and gave Edge a Twist of Fate across the middle rope. Jeff had a pin, but Edge got his foot on the rope. Jeff followed with a Whisper in the Wind that connected, but Edge kicked out. Action moved to the floor and Jeff re-positioned the ring steps to run off the steps with a big splash on Edge right into the lap of a family of five ringside. Jeff tossed Edge back to ringside, then Matt Hardy suddenly ran down the arena steps and blasted Jeff from behind with the cast. Ref didn't see the action on the floor, then Edge took Jeff back into the ring for a cover, but Jeff kicked out.

Edge wanted the spear, but Jeff moved and sent him head-first into the middle turnbuckle. Jeff slowly collected himself for a Swanton Bomb attempt, but he couldn't get in position soon enough, allowing Edge to grapple Jeff up top. Edge then nailed a superplex/edguctioner combo from the top rope for a big gasp from the crowd. Edge made the cover for the win. Afterward, Edge took his title belt and celebrated the victory while catching his breath. They replayed the finish, then closed with a shot of medics tending to Jeff Hardy in the ring. Selling the effects or he was legit KO'ed on that top rope finish.

WINNER: Edge at 19:55 to retain the World Hvt. Title. Would have been a show-stealer and more memorable in the fifth or sixth slot. In the main event slot, it was just a pretty good, but not great PPV title match. Had some high moments and they changed the pace of the match to keep throwing new things at the viewers to hold their interest, but not at the level of Edge-Cena from Backlash. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 19 2009, 10:36 am
What happens when the NBA goes up against the WWE?!! (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4176082)

Quote
Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers are scheduled to be at the Pepsi Center in Denver next Monday night.

Problem is, so are John Cena and a bunch of wrestlers -- and they called it first.

World Wrestling Entertainment said it is booked at the arena for an episode of Monday Night Raw, the same night the Nuggets are slated to host the Lakers in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals.

WWE chairman Vince McMahon told The Associated Press he doesn't believe there was "any malice, just ineptness," on the part of Kroenke Sports, which owns the team and the building, but can't tolerate the company "just simply throwing us out on our ear."

Without a quick resolution, McMahon plans to send his trucks to Denver.

"That's what we intend to do," he said. "We're going to show up."

Pepsi Center officials told the ABC television affiliate in Denver that the Nuggets game will be played as scheduled and that they are working with the WWE to reschedule or move its event.

WWE spokesman Robert Zimmerman said the organization secured the Pepsi Center last Aug. 15 and has already sold more than 10,000 tickets for the event. He says the organization expects a sellout, with tickets ranging from $20 to $70.

McMahon blamed Kroenke for not believing his team was good enough to still be playing in mid-May.

"The fans in Denver had a lot more faith in making the playoffs than the owner," he said in a phone interview from Louisville, where Raw was taking place later Monday night.

Denver is usually done with basketball by now. The Nuggets had lost in the first round five straight years, but as the No. 2 seed in the West are in the conference finals for the first time since 1985.

The Nuggets referred comment to the NBA, which handles scheduling during the playoffs. Kroenke Sports also had no comment.

However, the league is leaving it up to the team and the WWE to figure things out.

"The Nuggets and the WWE understand that the date of Game 4 of the Western Conference finals cannot be changed," NBA senior vice president Mike Bass said. "We are confident that the Pepsi Center and the WWE will resolve their scheduling conflict."

Zimmerman said the Pepsi Center confirmed in March with the WWE that the organization wanted to keep the May 25 date, and sent a contract on April 15 -- the final night of the regular season -- which WWE signed and returned. Tickets went on sale April 11.

The conflict didn't arise until Sunday, when the Lakers beat the Houston Rockets in Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals. Had the Rockets won, Denver would have had home-court advantage in the next round, hosting Games 1 and 2 and putting the May 25 game in Houston.

As of Monday afternoon, the schedule on the Pepsi Center's Web site listed WWE for 6:30 p.m. local time and Western Conference finals Game 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets for the wrestling event could still be purchased online.

McMahon said he couldn't guess how much he would make from the show, but that canceling wasn't easy because of how much is involved in moving his equipment, plus filling its obligated time slot on USA Network. Litigation is likely -- but he plans to be putting on a card.

"When you do have a date, you plan everything around it," he said, adding, "we may be holding an event in a parking lot somewhere."

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 19 2009, 02:43 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32148.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match to Divas Title

Mickie and Beth were the final three with Kelly Kelly kind of hanging around in the background. Kelly then tossed Beth, who was not pleased with the deal. She tried to yank Kelly out of the ring in disgust, which allowed Maryse to spray Mickie in the eyes with the Rick Martel gimmick. Mickie was KO'ed, so Kelly just kind of walked over to Mickie and pushed her out of the ring to win and earn a future title shot.

WINNER: Kelly Kelly at 2:40. Well, continues the Maryse-Mickie feud leading to an inevitable title match down the road. Interesting decision for Kelly to win. We'll see how this plays out. (n/a)

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Santino sold a leg injury a minute into the match, so he asked for some in the corner. He then comically "walked it off" by bouncing off the ropes with a stiff-legged gait. Chavo then ran him over with a clothesline to end it. Chavo put Santino in a seated stretch, then Santino did a comical "I'm going to explode or break the Masterlock!" expression as he tried to escape. Chavo started slapping Santino, who then started to Hulk Up. "You ah make me ah so mad!" he shouted. Santino landed an elbow smash and discovered he had actual ability to wrestle. Santino landed a clothesline and was shocked at all of these offensive moves working. He was gaining confidence before running into a boot in the corner. Chavo then went up top for a frog splash, but Santino rolled out of the way. He then ducked a corner splash and grappled Chavo with a jackknife pin for the win.

Post-match: Chavo took the mic and said this isn't a joke or funny. He told Santino to tell his sister, Santina, to go get dressed because she's defending the Miss WrestleMania crown tonight against her aunt, Vickie. Santino took it in stride and said she can beat her.

WINNER: Santino at 3:36. Nice match featuring Santino greatness. Very interesting to see if they actually turn him into a legit wrestler who discovers his own super powers week-by-week before becoming unstoppable. Great development with Chavo continuing to book without Vickie's consent out of frustration, this time leading to Vickie actually being in the ring. (*)

3 -- Unified tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK & GOLDUST

First blow to the Denver Nuggets a minute into the match. I didn't catch the exact quote, but Jerry Lawler threw a line out about Goldust's early match ineptness being similar to Nuggets owner Stan Kroenke. Kendrick got tired of Goldust screwing up, so the Colons took advantage and Carlito easily pinned Kendrick with the backstabber for the win. Afterward, Kendrick blamed Goldust for screwing up. Hornswoggle suddenly showed up behind TBK's back and bit him in the leg to fight off Kendrick and make the save for Papa Goldust. Cole called them the Odd Couple.

WINNERS: Carlito & Primo at 2:25. Okay tag match. Focus was just on the challengers being in no position to win due to Kendrick's mismanagement. (1/2*)

4 -- U.S. champion MVP vs. MATT HARDY -- United States Title match

Matt did a run-around with the top turnbuckle pad to distract the ref, allowing Matt to take out MVP's knees from behind. Matt worked on MVP's legs before MVP made a comeback with a flying hair-toss. MVP set up the Ballin' elbow drop and connected center ring. MVP couldn't score a three count, though. Matt then grabbed MVP by the Power Ranger trunks and flung him to the outside. On the outside, MVP came back by tossing Matt broken-hand-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, MVP stomped on the hand as Matt begged him off. MVP then delivered the Chono Boot in the corner before nailing the Playmaker center ring. MVP with the cover for the win.

WINNER: MVP at 5:17 to retain the U.S. Title. Not a surprising finish since they had the MVP vs. William Regal feud going before this week. Match was pretty good for five minutes. Ross back on Raw was a sound for sore ears. (*3/4)

5 -- VICKIE GUERRERO (w/Chavo Guerrero) vs. SANTINO(A) MARELLA

Bell sounded and Santina took the mic to say something. She (he) knows Vickie is jealous because he/she has a body like this and she has a body like that. Vickie slapped Santina and reminded her that she's a lesbianio. They shared an unfortunate liplock and Chavo stormed in not amused by this. Chavo then re-booked this as a No DQ match. Santina acted shocked. So, how would Spike TV handle this potential half-man on woman violence? In any event, Chavo stormed the ring and beat down Santina from behind. Chavo pounded on Santina, who fought back with some manly right hands. Crowd did the "booh/yay" for when they switched control. Santina then dumped Chavo over the top rope to the floor. Suddenly, William Regal jumped into the ring and beat the crap out of Santina. Regal landed a huge knee smash, then Vickie pounced on Santina for the pin and the win. Vickie howled and screamed in delight for winning the new Miss WrestleMania. Chavo then brought out the sash and crown to give to Vickie, who paraded around the ring.

WINNER: Vickie at 3:03. Just a buffer match to the main event to incorporate some absurd comedy and apparently begin a William Regal vs. Santino program. Or, Regal just isn't a fan of bad TV storylines and did something about it. (n/a)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES vs. BATISTA & JOHN CENA

Cena started with a collar-and-elbow tie-up with Cody, then Orton tagged in. Cena tried to make a quick tag to Batista, but Orton went right over to his corner to make a tag to DiBiase. Nice heel move. Batista and Cena then double-clotheslined Legacy over the top rope. Orton slithered into the ring from behind as the audience screamed in horror, but Cena and Batista turned around to slowly scare Orton out of the ring. Orton did his snake-like glare toward the babyfaces as they cut to break. Hot main event.

Back from break, Orton was working on Batista on the floor before he rolled him back into the ring. Orton did the Orton Stomp as crowd was red-hot with a "Batista" chant. DiBiase cut Batista off with a drop toehold before landing a series of elbow drops for another two count. Cole and Ross talked up Rhodes & DiBiase improving week by week as they hang around Orton. DiBiase and Batista then butted heads leading to the tease of a hot tag. Cena took the hot tag at 8:00 and exploded on Cody, who was the legal man. Cena did the You Can't See Me in Orton's direction before dropping the Shuffle on Cody. Cena wanted the FU and he delivered it, but Cody made a blind tag to Orton while on Cena's shoulders. Orton came in and hammered away on Cena, who teetered on the middle rope before DiBiase kicked him in the head. Apparently didn't quite have the Orton finesse to KO Cena for five weeks. He'll learn.

Match continued with Legacy cornering Cena and cutting him off from the hot tag. Fans did a "Let's Go Cena" chant, but there was no dueling "Cena Sucks" echo this week. DiBiase kept working on Cena before bringing Cody back in. Soccer Dad Orton shouted instructions to Cody to maintain control. "Don't let him breathe!" Cody tried a top rope moonsault and he connected. Whoa. He made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Orton then took a tag and kicked Cena in the gut to work him over. Cena tried to make a comeback, but Orton cut him right off with a clothesline.

At 13:00, Orton slapped on a standing headlock to wear down Cena. Cena tried to drag himself over to Batista and he finally reached out and touched Batista to get Batista his target of Orton for revenge from last night. Crowd exploded as Batista went after Orton. Meanwhile, Cena cut off Big Show on the entrance ramp and knocked him to the back with a chair. Batista cleared Cody and Ted. Suddenly, Ric Flair showed up off camera and shoved Cody off the top turnbuckle. It looked like Cody just kind of fell down. They cut to a shot of Flair to show why Cody fell off the top. Batista then found Orton and gave him a mid-ring spear. Batista made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Batista and Flair celebrated while they replayed what the heck happened. Apparently Flair ran a chair down to Cena, who bashed Show and then Flair went to ringside to KO Cody. Flair and Batista celebrated one more time in the ring while Legacy regrouped on the stage, not pleased with the finish.

WINNERS: Batista & Cena at 14:45. Excellent TV main event. Chaotic, action-packed, hot crowd, good storyline development for Extreme Rules and Flair's confrontation with Orton next week. Just felt like an old-school, star-power-filled main event with an exciting round of action to conclude the show. Good start to the next PPV build. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2009, 10:08 am
The Nuggets owner really dropped the ball on this whole thing. When the Nuggets began the playoffs, the NBA created the playoff schedules and usually have different senerios mapped out in case of conflicts. In many arenas as pointed out in an earlier posts, the pro teams do at times create schedules so to aid in certain bookings (in Phoenix, there's things like the circus, Disney on Ice and even the WWE that the Suns, Mercury, Rattlers and the late RoadRunners work around). There's not much going on here in Phoenix since they kept the arena dates open in case the Suns made it into the post-season (they didn't).

The Nuggets could've done a better job with this and while there is no doubt the Lakers-Nuggets playoff game will go as planned and the WWE will go somewhere else, the publicity over the whole thing makes not so much the WWE look good but the Nuggets owner and the Pepsi Center bad.

Yeah...Vince McMahon, being Vince will milk this for all its worth and after a month or so, life will be back to normal for the WWE and the NBA.

Last note...the Arizona Cardinals did almost the same thing this year when the NFL scheduled the final game of the season the day before the Fiesta Bowl, a breach of contract between the Cards and the Fiesta Bowl Committee. Cardinals officials took full responsibility for the mistake, saying they failed to notify the NFL when the schedules of the 2009 season was being made but like with the NBA, the schedule is final and cannot be moved to a different day though they decided to make it an early game.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2009, 12:00 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 5-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32179.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) -- non-title match

Christian was still selling the left knee, so Burchill kept trying to go after the knee in the early going. Christian shooed him away in the early going, then went to a mat hold to keep Burchill away from his lower body. Action moved to the floor and Burchill finally got the knee by smashing him into the guardrail. Burch then whipped him knee-first into the ring steps and took Christian back into the ring to work the knee. Burchill became frustrated with his inability to put away the champ, but he went back to work on the knee as the announcers sat quietly apparently studying the interaction in the ring. Christian blocked a running charge and followed with a tornado DDT out of the corner for a two count. Burchill tried to make another comeback run, but Christian fought valiantly and nailed the Killswitch for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Christian in 9:00. Good finish after some not-exciting action featuring Burchill on the offensive. We just don't know anything about Burchill out of the ring to make the audience care while he's in the ring. (*1/2)

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. ADAM GREEN

Ryder very aggressive in the early going. Ryder landed a kick to the gut, then re-adjusted his headband and hair before landing a neckbreaker. Striker with a line toward the Nuggets that he would like to see Carmelo Anthony pull off a move like a leaping leg smash from Ryder. Ryder with a sort of reverse rocker-dropper for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 2:00. Just a squash to get Ryder some TV exposure and an actual victory. Not feeling the ring entrance music, though. (1/2*)

3 -- DAVID HART SMITH (w/Natalya and Tyson Kidd) vs. FINLAY

Finlay dominated early on as Natalya asked him what's wrong. Complete domination by Finlay to start, then Smith rolled to the floor to take a breather. Announcers tried to talk up Smith as being bigger, stronger, and more vicious than Bulldog ever was. Means absolutely nothing to about 80-90 percent of the audience that has no idea who Davey Boy Smith is, unfortunately. After five minutes of first-gear mat wrestling, action moved to the apron where Smith landed a running powerslam off the apron to the floor for his first piece of offense of the match. Cut to break with KiddNat clapping it up for Smith.

Back from break, Smith was in control working the back with a submission hold. Kidd, thankfully, checked in with his "Ask him ref!" scream to add some life to this. Finlay tried to mount an attack at 13:00, but Smith cut him right off and went back to work on the back. Crowd tried to rally behind Finlay as he fought an abdominal stretch, then Finlay fired off a round of punches on Smith until Smith landed a big boot to the face. Announcers asleep, specifically Mathews. After the quick highspot from Smith, he went back to working on the back before settling into a chinlock.

Finlay finally came back with an escape of the powerslam before ramming Smith into the corner turnbuckle. Finlay made his full comeback as the crowd came to life. Finlay tried a Rolling Hills, but his back went out after Smith's work. Finlay then clotheslined Smith over the top rope to the floor. Natalya then slapped Finlay, but Finlay rammed Kidd into the guardrail. Kidd, upset, tried to run after Finlay, but ref stopped him. Meanwhile, Smith used Natalya's shoe to smash Finlay right in the head. Ref came back around as Smith landed a rolling side belly-to-back suplex for the pin and the win. Post-match: They replayed the finish and the Hart Foundation celebrated the victory as Finlay recovered in the ring to close the show.

WINNER: Smith in 19:00. Very slow pace to this one. Perhaps it would have been more tolerable if there was a high-flying match on the undercard this week to balance out the "Finlay style" of ECW wrestling. But, Evan Bourne was nowhere to be found for the second week in a row, Tyson Kidd wasn't in action, and Jack Swagger was sent to the principal's office. Having to sit through a Paul Burchill match was tough, but couple that with 20 minutes of slow-paced action in the main event, and you have a channel-changing night of action.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2009, 11:10 am
WWE moving Monday show from Denver to Los Angeles (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AunqQTA2M0yV7.Sj2PmeyoU5nYcB?slug=ap-nba-wweconflict&prov=ap&type=lgns)

Quote
Vince McMahon claims he’s being thrown out. His opponent insists McMahon is the double-crosser.

It’d make a good story line for a wrestling feud—but it won’t take place in Denver.

World Wrestling Entertainment is moving its Monday night show to Los Angeles because of a conflict with the Pepsi Center in Denver, which had booked two events for the same night.

The Nuggets are scheduled to host the Lakers on Monday in Game 4 of the Western Conference finals, but WWE had previously secured the arena for an episode of Monday Night Raw.

The WWE chairman criticized Kroenke Sports, which owns the Nuggets and Pepsi Center, for not being more helpful when the conflict arose over the weekend.

“They bumped us right out of the building, hardly an apology,” McMahon said Wednesday. “They didn’t do anything for us at all, and the media was talking about someone has to write a check. They didn’t want to write anything and they wanted to give us a Sunday night. And the name of the show is Monday Night Raw.”

However, Kroenke Sports claims McMahon had previously agreed to a deal to shift the event to Sunday.

“We negotiated in good faith with Vince and believed we had a deal in principal as of Tuesday,” Kroenke Sports executive vice president Paul Andrews said. “In fact, it was so clear to us that we did that we asked Vince to do a joint press release. He said, ‘Paul, I have no problem with a joint press release.’ Then, he asked us if he could get five tickets to the Denver Nuggets’ game on Monday night so he could apologize to Mr. Kroenke in person.

“That was Tuesday. We find out by a press announcement today by Vince, who I believe is the master of propaganda, that he’s moving the event to the Staples Center. He didn’t even contact us to tell us he hadn’t accepted the deal we negotiated the night before, so we’re quite shocked, frankly.”

WWE executive vice president Shane McMahon, at a press conference at Staples Center, said the Kroenke offer came too late.

“They tried to be amicable but we’re really at such a loss of words because we were expecting a capacity crowd. Had sold 11,000 as of last week,” he said. “We’ve been on sale since August so everyone knew we were coming. We built everything around it. That’s what we do. We promote and build the event.”

Vince McMahon said Staples Center called and offered use of its building and that his organization will return to Denver for an event at the Coliseum on Aug. 7. McMahon said many arenas, including Madison Square Garden, called and offered to host Raw. He chose Staples Center, which also was available Tuesday night for its second night of programming.

McMahon said it was important to have Raw be shown live on its normal Monday night slot on USA Network—where it will go head-to-head against the Nuggets-Lakers game on ESPN. He previously vowed he would hold the event in a parking lot if need be.

McMahon added the Monday show would include a 5-on-5 match pitting “Lakers” against “Nuggets” and his character would likely confront a character of Stan Kroenke, who owns Kroenke Enterprises, in the ring.

But while he said that’s entertainment for the fans, he remains angry at Kroenke and the terms he said were requested in the press release to complete an agreement.

“They would not even talk about making a deal other than paying our expenses basically unless we signed some sort of joint press release,” McMahon said. “You would not believe what these people were attempting to make us do. I guess maybe running over us and throwing us out unceremoniously on our ear was not good enough. They want to trample us.”

WWE said it secured the Pepsi Center last Aug. 15 and had already sold more than 10,000 tickets for the event. The organization said arena officials confirmed the wrestlers were still coming and sent a signed contract on April 15, the last night of the regular season.

Then the double booking was set Sunday, when the Lakers beat Houston in Game 7 to reach the conference finals. Had the Lakers lost, Denver would have had home-court advantage against the Rockets, making the Pepsi Center available for wrestling on Monday.

The conflict has provided some great press for WWE, but McMahon said his preference was to do his show as planned.

“I didn’t want this publicity,” he said. “They threw me out and so what are we going to do? We have to garner some degree of publicity.”

Kroenke Sports said WWE preferred the publicity to a compromise.

“They haven’t returned any of our calls for over a 24-hour period since we had what we believed to be an agreement Tuesday night,” Andrews said. “We’ve reached out to them all day for feedback and then we get an announcement they’re going to L.A.

“The sensationalism and media attention were more important than the fans of Denver.”

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2009, 10:32 am
WWE Superstars results: 5-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32226.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Slow, but good opening with the wrestlers feeling each other out. Dreamer went after the injured knee from his ECW TV match, then Christian knocked Dreamer to the outside. Christian missed a dive, though, and gripped the knee. Dreamer took advantage with a cannonball dive off the apron leading to a commercial.

Back from break, Dreamer had Christian in a knee bar on the mat. Christian tried to counter with an inside cradle, but Dreamer escaped. Very quiet match call from Striker and Mathews again. Annoyingly quiet. Like I keep hearing the humming of the arena's fan insulation in the background during restholds. Dreamer wanted a bulldog at 9:00, but Christian ducked and slammed Dreamer for a two count. They went into a pinning exchange at 10:00 with Dreamer nearly scoring a three count that even got a reaction from Mathews. Christian then gingerly went up top, but Dreamer cut him off and landed a superplex.

Both men exchanged control, then Christian landed the pendulum kick out of the corner before going up top again. He wanted a diving headbutt, but Dreamer rolled out of the way in time. Jack Swagger then came down to ringside dressed to wrestle. Dreamer stared down Swagger, then Christian attacked Dreamer from behind. Christian turned his attention to Swagger, who jumped to the apron. Christian yanked him inside the ring and the ref called for the bell. No Contest was the official ruling, which pleased Swagger after he ruined the match. Christian and Dreamer shook, but Dreamer pulled the title belt back to show Christian he still wants the title.

WINNER: No Contest in 12:00. Looks like the set-up for a three-way title match at Extreme Rules. This was a very frustrating match on TV. Live, it was probably better. Announcers were asleep for most of the match, they acted like they didn't even care about the finish, and it was just like, "oh, well, Dreamer didn't win the match, no worries he only has three weeks left in WWE in the storyline." Announcers came across like they didn't care and they didn't build up the significance of the moment. (*1/2)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Kofi had a big smile, which Regal tried to wipe off his face. Announcers talked about Kofi trying to move up the ladder on Raw past Regal, which Regal has taken umbrage to. Apparently that's the only purpose to the match other than the basic idea of putting two stars on TV to give them in-ring exposure and focus for five-to-ten minutes. Would be nice to see an actual storyline "pecking order" rankings that WWE could point to on a weekly basis where a wrestler wins a feature TV match and moves up the storyline rankings to earn more title match or main event opportunities. Something tangible to give a basic singles match like this a purpose. Back to the action where Regal played to the crowd after a nice move, but he allowed Kofi to wake up. Regal then walked right into the Buzzsaw Kick and Kingston made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Kingston in 5:00. Fine singles match. Regal was aggressive and Kofi showed off his high-flying arsenal. Good mid-card showcase, but, like I said, no real purpose other than getting two guys on TV. (*1/4)

3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. C.M. PUNK

Loud chant for Punk after the opening bell. Punk fired off an elbow smash early on, then Jericho tried to roll to the floor, but Punk brought him back into the ring and kicked him square in the chest. Crowd from Louisville on Monday night was hot for the action. Jericho then hid behind the ref and he used the momentary distraction to thumb Punk in the eye to gain an advantage. Crowd hot trying to rally Punk, who came back with a modified tarantula in the corner. Paging Tajiri. Punk then landed a springboard clothesline for a two count. He teased the G2S, but Jericho elbowed out and kicked Punk in the leg to cut off Mr. MITB. Punk rolled to the apron to recover, then Jericho landed a springboard dropkick to clear Punk to the floor. Jericho smirked to the crowd leading to break.

Back from break, Jericho wrapped up Punk in the abdominal stretch. Almost miss the old ab stretch spot where the heel grabs the ropes once, ref doesn't see it, grabs it a second time, ref doesn't see it, then grabs it a third time, and the ref sees it. Always a great spot. I think D.H. Smith tried that on Tuesday, but he wasn't close enough to the ropes. Jericho then missed with a corner charge and Punk fired back with kick strikes all over the body. Punk landed a leaping leg whip, then a high knee in the corner, and running bulldog, but Jericho kicked out at two. Great sequence.

Punk then went up top in a hurry and nailed a crossbody block, but Jericho kicked out again. Punk went back to kick strikes, but Jericho landed a running enziguiri. Nice. He made a cover, but Punk kicked out. Punk came back with another G2S attempt, but Jericho slipped out. Jericho then tried to nail the Lionsault, but Punk had it scouted with the electric chair. He tried to transfer into G2S, but Jericho slipped down into a Walls of Jericho attempt. Punk countered it right into a small package for the three count and the win. Awesome.

WINNER: Punk in 14:00. What a match. Excellent work from both men and some great nearfalls, counters, and reversals that the audience was totally sold out for. Jericho has been a star in the ring his last two matches despite taking losses. Lesson in there about how to stand out as a top worker even if you're booked to lose. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2009, 10:43 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Report_Library_33/article_32232.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- X Division champion SUICIDE & DANIELS vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. LETHAL CONSEQUENCES (JAY LETHAL & CONSEQUENCES CREED)

Announcers argued about the Suicide vs. Daniels identity, then focused on the Main Event Mafia ongoing drama and storylines. Meanwhile, some spots happened in the ring as the Guns double-team dominated Daniels in their corner. More spots, then three-way action broke out in the ring. Suicide tagged in and cleaned house, then more action broke out in the ring. Shelley nailed a frog splash on Suicide, but Daniels broke up the pin. More spots. No one selling anything. Daniels took out Lethal on the floor with a springboard moonsault, and in the ring, Suicide nailed Shelley with a modified codebreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Suicide & Daniels in 6:00. A whole lot of fast-paced spots to get some athleticism and X Division action on the show. At times, seemed like the wrestlers were just doing stuff to do stuff without any purpose. Hey, let's do a double kick to the head. Why? I don't know, just do it. Okay! (*1/2)

2 -- STING vs. ERIC YOUNG

Funny how things change. Two months ago, Sting hand-picked Eric Young to represent him in the go-home show before a TNA PPV. Young came out first and clapped for Sting, who approached him and patted him on the shoulder. Bell sounded and they adhered to the Code of Honor. Sting clotheslined Young over the top rope to the floor early on and Young clutched his stomach in pain. Back in the ring, Sting whipped him back over the top rope to the floor. Young tried to fire himself up to get back in the ring, then he slid in underneath Sting and fired off a comeback. Sting cut him right off, though, and slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. Young tried to reach the ropes, but Sting yanked him back to center ring for a tap out win. Announcers said it could be the last time for Sting on Impact if he retires. Announcers barely spent any time on that angle, so not a selling point for Sunday. Young was mad post-match.

WINNER: Sting in 4:00. Just a basic singles match to enhance Sting going into the PPV main event and continue to frustrate Young for his "Chris Harris" storyline on the undercard that is going absolutely nowhere. (*)

3 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MATT MORGAN

Morgan came out on stage sporting his wizard cape before dropping it on stage. After The Wizard came out, Angle made his way to the ring with a rose in hand. Thought he was giving Morgan a present, but Angle dropped the rose on the mat before locking horns with Morgan. Morgan knocked Angle to the floor and gloated about being in control before they cut to an early break.

Back from break, Morgan was in control working on Angle, who was apparently the default babyface in the match. Morgan scored a nearfall, then Angle countered a follow-up move with the anklelock in center ring. Morgan tried to fight the hold, then he kicked Angle away. Morgan came to his feet and landed an overhead slam with no sign of the anklelock effecting him. Morgan wanted the Hellevator suplex, but Angle countered with a small package for the pin and the win. Post-match: Angle shook Morgan's hand and pointed toward Morgan, apparently impressed with Morgan.

WINNER: Angle in 6:00 of TV time. Fine match. Had some good moments with Angle doing his best to elevate Morgan by giving him a close nearfall or two. (*1/2)

4 -- SAMOA JOE vs. JEFF JARRETT

Joe met Jarrett on the entrance ramp and took the brawl over the guardrail to the floor. Joe sent Jarrett into the customary PPV poster on the base of the grandstands before taking the brawl into the stands. Joe continued to blast Jarrett before whipping him over the guardrail back to ringside. Joe targeted the tape job with stiff-looking kicks that put Jarrett on the floor. Ref Slick Johnson tried to block Joe's offense, so Joe chucked him aside to continue beating down Jarrett. Joe slapped on a submission hold to tear the hamstring, then ref Hebner showed up to call for the match to be thrown out.

Joe picked up a chair and rammed it into Jarrett's injured leg. A.J. Styles then jogged down ringside and lightly pushed Joe away to check on Jeff. Joe shoved Styles, then they started to brawl ringside. Security eventually showed up to separate them as Jeff continued to sell the injury. Joe and Styles had a pullapart brawl to end the segment. Should be a good PPV match on Sunday. Probably will sell some buys... What? They're not facing each other?

WINNER: No Contest in 2:00. Wild brawl, then a pullapart brawl to apparently set up Joe vs. Styles at Slammiversary. Too bad TNA glossed right over Joe vs. Nash and Styles vs. Booker on Sunday. They apparently gave up on that. Meanwhile, Jarrett has his "out" for not winning on Sunday or he has the "epic overcoming the odds and stacked deck" card if he wins the TNA Title on Sunday. (n/a)

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion MICK FOLEY vs. ROCKY BALBOA CUT-OUT

Foley had a stare down against the cut-out and the Security guy stood behind it to land some punches. Foley had enough and Hulked Up before landing successive right hand blows and a suplex. Old man was cheering Foley, apparently not sure of his role on the show. Or, perhaps, where he was. Foley with a piledriver, then he blew himself up running the ropes. Foley with an elbow drop, then a cover for the win. Old man apparently didn't get the point of the whole deal.

WINNER: Foley in 2:00. Good ol' fashioned promise-and-underdeliver, but that was expected. Whole program is built around the idea of getting heat on Foley for being a nutcase who promises the world in the opening, then delivers beachfront property in the Gulf of Mexico, but it makes TNA look bad in the process. Jarrett is positioned as the "voice of the fan" defending against these intentionally stupid storylines, but he comes across like such a Grumpy Gus that it might be difficult for some fans to buy into this.

Post-match: Foley thanked Rocky for his work. He thanked TNA and the fans. Greatest night of his life. Foley lifted up the TNA Title belt after his mock Rocky victory speech. Jeff Jarrett's music hit and SuperJarrett limped to the ring. Take that, Samoa Joe. Now lug Nash around on Sunday. He's done hearing Foley's crap. He's made a mockery of the promotion, then he punched Foley in the face and pounded the crap out of Foley. Angle then stormed the ring and gave Jarrett the Olympic Slam. He slapped on the anklelock before Sting walked to the ring. Foley had a chair in hand now. Angle and Sting talked, then Foley blasted Sting with a chair. Meanwhile, Jarrett got Angle with the Stroke. Foley then blasted Jarrett with a chair shot. Foley the last man standing in the ring going to the PPV on Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 24 2009, 09:38 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32251.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- RICKY ORTIZ & CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. JOHN MORRISON & CRYME TYME

Not sure where Ricky’s heel turn came, but Todd Grisham did hint that his motivational techniques were wearing on other superstars. Remember when Miz & Morrison had their heated feud with Cryme Tyme? Grisham mentioned Ortiz’s football background, noting that he played in the NFL and NCAA, but not revealing that he also played in the XFL. Morrison and Ortiz were in there and once Morrison got the advantage, he tagged out to Shad. Eventually, Ortiz got the best of JTG and tagged out to Haas. JTG dropkicked Haas to the outside and the faces chased the heels off the apron. The heels had to regroup as the show went to break.

Back from break, Shelton was working over JTG after some double-teaming by the heels during the break. All three heels got time in the ring against JTG. Hammerlock slam on JTG by Ortiz for two. JTG tried to fight back against Shelton and was successful, but he couldn’t get by Benjamin to make it to his corner for a tag. Benjamin held onto the leg while trying to make a tag of his own. JTG mule kicked Shelton and Haas came in. JTG and Haas had a confusing spot where it wasn’t clear whether JTG made the hot tag or not. The ref ruled he did- not sure if that was by accident since he was so close or what, but it kind of took the luster off of the situation. Things broke down until it was back to Morrison vs. Haas. Morrison landed on his feet on a Haas suplex attempt, then he hit the Starship Pain for the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme & Morrison, at 10:22. Solid enough match.

2- MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. GAIL KIM- DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP #1 CONTENDER MATCH

As usual, Fox was at ringside with McCool. The women had a shoving match with Michelle getting the better of it. Kim tried a crucifix roll-up, but ended up arm-dragging McCool down. To the outside, where Michelle took Kim knee-first into the ring-post. Back in the ring, Michelle smelled blood and went right after that knee. Kim locked Michelle in a submission move, with Flying Dragon according to Grisham. The head of Michelle was scissored by Kim and her arm was locked. McCool got out of it and again went back to the knee, including pulling Kim out of the ring by it. Kim landed on the outside with a thud. Gail fought back with right hands, but Michelle dropkicked her in the knee. Heel kick by Kim, then a neck-breaker for a near-fall. As Kim planned to go to the top, Fox got involved without the referee’s knowledge. Kim shoved her into the ring-post face-first, but the pause allowed Michelle to recover and eventually hit the Faith-Breaker for the win.

WINNER: McCool, at 4:25. Another good match between these two ladies. McCool vs. Melina makes the most sense at this point.

3- CHRIS JERICHO vs. CM PUNK

Punk got an early bodyslam and stomp in on Y2J. Jericho missed a springboard dropkick and fell to the outside. Punk got Jericho on his shoulders for the GTS, but Jericho countered and struck with a forearm to the back of the head. Rear chinlock by Jericho but Punk came back with some spot-on kicks and a cover got two. Punk came off the top and Jericho kicked the rope, causing Punk to fall. Show went to break with both men down.

It was all Jericho upon return. He seemed to be getting cocky, though. JR did say that Punk got quite a bit of offense in during the break. Trash talking by Jericho, then a corner clothesline. Punk headbutted Jericho down as both men were on the top. Flying cross-body, but Jericho rolled through for two. Enziguiri missed and Punk rolled him up for two. Punk appeared to be going for his running knee in the corner, but Jericho fired out with a dropkick. Punk shoved Jericho off on a bulldog attempt, and Jericho ended up crotch-first into the middle rope. Knee to the back of the head by Punk. Jericho again got out of a GTS, but got him up a second time. Jericho rolled down Punk’s back and attempted to lock in a Walls of Jericho. Inside cradle by Punk, countered by Jericho back into a Walls. Punk reached the rope to break the count. He came back with a GTS, but Jericho rolled out of the ring. Umaga then came out with a strap in hand and attacked Punk, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Punk via DQ, at 11:36. Another above-average TV match for these two.

4- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. R-TRUTH

Big hip-toss from Truth, but Ziggler hung him out to dry throat-first over the top rope. Suplex by Ziggler for only one. Ziggler missed a charge in the corner and Truth came back with some rights and a heel kick. Facce-first into the canvas went Dolph. Scissors kick to Ziggler for two. Truth went to the top, but Ziggler pulled him down by his legs and hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 2:29.

As Ziggler headed to the back, Great Khali came out, walking with a purpose. Ziggler was forced to go back into the ring, where Truth leveled Ziggler with a spinning flying forearm. Ziggler though, was able to high-tail it through the crowd before Khali could get his hands on him.

5- JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE- WINNER NAMES THE STIPULATION FOR THEIR MATCH AT EXTREME RULES

The two had a bit of a feeling-out process at the outset, with neither man getting a clear advantage. Edge took a breather when he felt like he was in trouble. He tripped Jeff up but Edge couldn’t capitalize. JR made it a point that Edge is trying to concuss Hardy. Jeff worked a head-lock on Edge as JR made a few basketball metaphors. Jeff bounced Edge’s head off the turnbuckle ten times. Dropkick in the corner, but it may have hurt Jeff on the landing. Kick to the head by Edge. He seemed to be the fresher man as the show went to break.

Edge concentrated his attack on Jeff’s skull, kicking him a number of times in the head in the corner of the ring. Jeff came back with an elbow in the corner, then a Whisper in the Wind. He nearly got a pinfall off of it. Flying forearm by Hardy, shades of Tito Santana. Face-first suplex and the shirt has come off, folks. Hardy went to the top, but Edge crawled a safe distance away. Edge with a neck-breaker on Hardy for two. Edge, to the top, but Hardy met him with a standing dropkick. He baseball slid Edge out of the ring. Flying crossbody over the top by Jeff. Back in the ring, Jeff landed a second-rope leg-drop for two. Edge shoved off a Twist of Fate attempt, but Hardy rolled Edge up after a spear miss for another near-fall. Backslide by Edge for two. Grisham compared this match to a game of chess. Finally a Twist of Fate for Hardy, who then crawled to the corner and up the turnbuckle. Edge caught him with a right hand though, crotching him on the top rope. Jeff fought out and knocked Edge to the canvas. Swanton hit and Jeff won it.

WINNER: Hardy, at 15:42. Great match, made more intriguing by the stipulation and the concussion storyline.

-After showing a replay of important moments in the match, Grisham met Jeff in the ring for the reveal of what Jeff has decided for a stipulation. Jeff said he’d be climbing a ladder to win the title, so it’ll be a Ladder Match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 25 2009, 01:09 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results: 5-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_32290.shtml)

Pre-Show Report

A -- KIYOSHI vs. AMAZING RED

Red took the initial advantage by knocking Kiyoshi to the outside and landing a corkscrew twisting splash for the first highspot of the night. Red took his time getting back in the ring, allowing Kiyoshi to cut him off. Don West interjected that he spent a good amount of time talking to Kiyoshi pre-show in Japanese to calm him down. Mike Tenay was ready to strangle him. Red made a comeback at 5:00, then "fed off the crowd" for a leg lariat resulting in a two count. Kiyoshi then came back with a turnaround suplex for a two count, which Kiyoshi sold with frustration. He called for the end and went for a moonsault, but Red moved and Kiyoshi ate the mat. Red nearly botched a turnaround DDT, then followed with a standing moonsault for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Red in 7:00. Good pre-PPV opener to warm up the crowd. (**)

1 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELEY & CHRIS SABIN) & SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. LETHAL CONSEQUENCES (JAY LETHAL & CONSEQEUENCES CREED) & ERIC YOUNG

Savage...er...Lethal showed up in an old school silver cape that expanded across his wingspan. Lethal also sporting the 1980s Savage red trunks with white stars. Predictably, the odd-ball trio of Sheik & Guns broke down as they were working on Creed. He wanted a hot tag to Young, but Young no-sold a tag as West complained about Young "ruffling some feathers" backstage. Young eventually joined the action with a double suicide dive with Creed on the Guns. Back in the ring, Lethal gave Sheik a sit-out slam for a close two count. Nice nearfall. Lethal then wanted a top rope elbow drop, but Shelley cut him off and landed a brainbuster. Shelley went up top himself, but Creed cut him off. Action broke down into a six-way brawl as West complained about the ref losing control of the action. More highspots ensued. Young then clotheslined someone inside out. More spots. More people flying around the ring.

Bashir landed a top rope frogsplash at 11:45, but no one knew who was legal or what the heck was going on, so everyone stood around. More standing around before Guns landed a double-team kick combo on Creed. Young then set up a double Death Valley Driver on the Guns and connected, but Bashir knocked Young to the floor. Lethal then tried to sunset flip Bashir, but Bashir grabbed the ropes. Ref saw it and kicked Bashir's hands off the ropes, allowing Lethal to score a pin for the win. Afterward, West blew a gasket out of disdain for the ref assist. Young was confused and didn't know how to react. He didn't want to take part in the celebration.

WINNERS: Lethal & Young & Creed at 13:55. Opening highspot fest that was just a bunch of guys flipping around the ring like an independent show match where no one is selling anything. I'm sure they were instructed to be a bunch of highspot monkeys because that's what TNA pigeonholes them as, so I don't want to criticize the wrestlers for working hard, but this was just a bunch of spots. (**)

2 -- TAYLOR WILDE vs. DAFFNEY -- Monster's Ball match

Lots of weapons early on. Taylor went to her Canadian roots to smash Daffney with a hockey stick early on. Taylor finished her off rather quickly with a slam onto a trashcan for the win. Post-match: Daffney recovered as Dr. Stevie stormed the ring to spread out thumbtacks in the ring. Lauren and Abyss then ran to ringside and Abyss gave Stevie the Black Hole Slam into the tacks to end the segment.

WINNER: Taylor in 2:00. Short match promoting the undercard storyline that will assuredly continue on TV. (n/a)

3 -- X Division champion SUICIDE vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS -- X Division Title match

Before the match, they had a nice handshake before squaring off across the ring. Crowd quiet early on as Don West continued to talk and talk and talk about the Suicide/Daniels/Curry Man conspiracy theory. West covered for the quiet crowd by saying the audience is split on whether they want Fake Daniels or Real Daniels to win. Both men struggled to work around Suicide's limited peripheral vision, then Daniels knocked Suicide to the floor, only to take a knee to the gut on a springboard moonsault attempt.

Chris Sabin eventually came to ringside as West continued to complain about the conspiracy theories involved here. Meanwhile, Shelley blasted Suicide in the ring with a codebreaker. Daniels pretended like he wasn't paying attention, then he went into the ring and covered Suicide for the easy pin and the win.

WINNER: Daniels at 12:10 to capture the X Division Title. Just a basic filler undercard match. Very disappointing X Division Title match with Don West walking a fine line between an annoying "heel announcer" and trying to get a rise out of Internet fans who enjoy listening to conspiracy theories. (*1/2)

Post-match: Daniels took the mic after watching the replay and said he doesn't want to win the X Division Title like that. He asked Suicide for five more minutes. Seriously, they asked Suicide if he wanted five more minutes. Naw, he doesn't care about the belt. After milking it, Suicide accepted. So, is Daniels still champ or does it revert to Suicide?

3b -- CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. SUICIDE -- X Division Title match -- five-minute OT

West was also confused by this, as he asked Tenay what happens if no one wins in the five-minute OT. Tenay said it goes back to Suicide. He didn't sound very convincing. Perhaps they should have a shoot-out. West said they're getting close to the LeBron James last-second shot time. Too soon for Orlando fans. Daniels connected with the Best Moonsault Ever at 4:35, but Suicide rolled through into a pin attempt. Clock counted down to zero with Suicide scoring a nearfall on Daniels. Suicide retains the X Division Title apparently. Daniels handed over the title belt to Suicide as West complained about there being a double-cross.

WINNER: No Contest at 5:00. Five more filler minutes. This whole program is so far out there in outer space. Just give us two men with one issue and let them wrestle out the issue in the ring. I just don't care about these "conspiracy theories" that West talked about for...ev...er in this 17-minute segment. It was over-kill. (*)

4 -- KNOCKOUTS champion ANGELINA LOVE vs. AWESOME KONG

Kong out first, then Angelina slowly entered the ring not wanting to aggravate the monster to start the match. She tried to duck into the corner, but Kong pulled her out and rammed her into the turnbuckle. Angelina tried to run away to the floor, but Kong followed and rammed her into the guardrail. Angelina finally took control on the floor and tried to get a count-out, but Kong made it back into the ring where she took an aggressive pummeling from Kong. Angelina then tried to high-tail it out of the ring, but Raisha Saeed stopped her in her tracks and Kong brick-walled her onto the floor. Back in the ring, Kong had a pin, but she pulled up at one to inflict more damage. She missed with a top rope dive, then Angelina rolled to the outside and grabbed a gimmick. Raisha cut her off, though, and Kong accidentally rammed Raisha off the apron. Angelina used the pepper spray behind the ref's back, then she rolled up Kong from behind for the win. Kong isn't going to be too happy with Raisha. Post-match: Kong scooped up Angelina and gave her another brick-wall bump. She then finished off Angelina with the implant buster in center ring to get her back. Oops, not done yet. Kong dragged Angelina back into center ring and gave her another implant buster for two exclamation marks.

WINNER: Angelina at 5:57 to retain the Knockouts Title. Fine title match. Good storyline played out in the ring where there was an issue and the heel managed to keep the belt by hook or by crook. Fine pro wrestling match despite the outside interference. (*1/2)

5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. KEVIN NASH

Nash came out first and Don West said Nash has been in the gym getting prepared for this, based on his physique improvement. Samoa Joe then came out and Nash took his time re-entering the ring so Joe could work himself up. Nice "veteran heel" move in the storyline context. West referenced the consultant to Joe. Bell sounded as the announcers talked about Joe losing his edge, which made him take his violence to a whole 'nother level. Nash landed a big boot in the first minute. Match moved to the floor where Nash tried a chair shot, but Joe ducked and smashed Nash with a chair. Nash came up busted open and the action returned to the ring. Joe nailed an enziguiri kick, but Nash came right back with a sidewalk slam. Joe then came back with a sleeperhold and Nash grabbed the ropes for a break. In the interim, though, Nash landed a mule kick behind the ref's back and scored a nearfall. Joe came back with a running kick and running sentaun, but Nash kicked out. Joe then slapped on the rear naked choke and Nash tapped out in five seconds. Joe with a clean victory over Nash.

Post-match: Joe grabbed Nash and put him in the Bryan Danielson choke hold to land elbow strikes to the neck. Security and refs ate right hand punches, then Joe went back to Nash and landed forearm strikes. Crowd not sure how to respond. Security eventually sent Joe away and Joe grabbed his towel on the way out. Scott Steiner then rolled into the ring and checked on Nash, who sold the beating.

WINNER: Joe at 8:05. Nice singles match. Two men. One issue. No funny stuff, just a good, competitive wrestling match. Post-match continues to make Joe a "shades of gray" character when the audience has no reason to cheer him, but they're tentative to boo him because of his amazing run in the past. (**1/2)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 25 2009, 01:09 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results: 5-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_32290.shtml)

Continued from previous post...

6 -- BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS w/Rob Terry) -- Finals of Team 3D Tag Team Tournament #1 contendership

Ray with more talk of TNA offering the best tag team in wrestling. He said he likes what he sees from Doug Williams and expects him to help Brutus and Terry advance in TNA. Brutus tried to dump Storm over the top rope, but Storm held onto to the top rope, Roode poured him a brew, and Storm skinned the cat back into the ring to spew the brew into Magnus's face. Beer Money definitely popular with the crowd as babyfaces. British Invasion recovered on the floor, then Roode launched Storm over the top rope with a three-man splash. Don West kept agreeing with Team 3D on all of their commentary, which was pretty awesome. Ray called out West, but West shifted it back to trying to call a serious match here, fellas. One step ahead. Ray said they love tag tournaments like the Crockett Cup and it was a big deal for them to pull out $100,000 for this tournament. West chimed in that it's only like $50,000 after taxes.

Storm made a hot tag to Roode at 8:00 and Ray mixed up the Beer Money wrestlers. Action broke down, then Williams nailed a lift-up European Uppercut on Roode, but Roode kicked out. BI wanted to finish off Roode, but Storm broke it up. Roode dumped Brutus to the floor, then Storm nailed a top rope huracanrana leading to Roode hit a frogsplash. He had the pin, but Terry pulled ref Hebner out of the ring. West comically demanded he be tossed from ringside, chiming in with Team 3D. Beer Money was in jeopardy as Williams introduced the stolen LAX briefcase, but Roode yanked the case and clocked Williams. Hebner made the cover and scored a pin for the win. Post-match: Team 3D entered the ring and shook hands with Beer Money. In typical TNA fashion, trophy presentation is this Thursday on Impact. Don't even get the trophies tonight. Guess they need to make sure the giant check clears.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 10:43. Good tag match with a hot crowd. The usual TNA run-around, interference, etc., but the crowd made up for it by being very involved. This was West at his best as a heel announcer. It was great. (***)

7 -- Legends champion A.J. STYLES vs. BOOKER T (w/out Sharmell) -- Legends Title match -- I Quit match

Styles was in control early. West did his classic heel line about Booker letting Styles get his offense in to give him a false sense of security before making the comeback. Booker dropped Styles throat-first across the guardrail, then Styles breathed into the mic without saying I Quit. West said perhaps he was trying to, but he couldn't produce the air to say the two words. Nice from West. After Booker worked on Styles for a while, they went into a standing exchange of right hand blows, then Styles ducked a right and nailed the Pele kick. Nice sequence. West complemented Styles on the comeback and said he can't tell you how many times he's screamed that move out. Styles then gripped Booker and landed forearms. Booker was not quitting. "Hell naw, man," Booker said. Styles then knocked Booker to the floor and followed with a plancha on the ground. Nice spot. Booker didn't give up. Styles then rammed him into the ringpost and rolle him back in at 15:00. Booker wouldn't give.

Styles regrouped on the apron, then Sharmell came to ringside and shouted instructions to Booker. Styles landed a flying forearm smash as Sharmell encouraged him not to quit. Styles wanted the Clash, but Sharmell jumped on the apron. Booker tried to take advantage, but he accidentally bumped Sharmell off the apron. In the confusion, Styles grappled Booker and put him in a nice-looking MMA submission trying to separate the shoulder. Booker refused to give. Jenna then came down to ringside with a towel in hand. Jenna tossed the towel into the ring and the ref called for the bell. Jenna screamed at Sharmell that she was just trying to help, but Sharmell was having none of it. Styles took his belt and was initially upset with the finish since he didn't get Booker to quit, but he celebrated with the title. Crowd was disappointed with the finish, which hurt Styles's moment.

WINNER: Styles at 16:47 to retain the Legends Title. Best match of the PPV until the finish with Sharmell-Jenna continuing their feud on my PPV TV. Keep it on free TV, but don't put that dumb storyline on pay TV. As usual, TNA tries to find a way out of a stipulation. Sucks to rant on that, because the match was awesome and one of Booker's best performances in years. (***3/4)

8 -- TNA Hvt. champion MICK FOLEY vs. JEFF JARRETT vs. STING vs. KURT ANGLE -- TNA World Title match

Jarrett and Angle paired off against each other early on. Cactus and Sting battled through the crowd, up the stands, and to the entranceramp where Foley landed a piledriver on the ramp. Angle put Jarrett in the anklelock, then Foley tried to help Angle by putting Jarrett in the Mandible Claw to make Jarrett tap and lose his votes, but Angle jumped Foley and knocked him to the floor. Foley rolled to the outside, then decided to join commentary to say he's taking a little breather-oonie until absolutely necessary to sneak in there for the win. Jarrett took a double-team beating from the Mafia, then Sting and Angle accidentally bumped into each other. After the contact, Sting shoved Angle, who tried to apologize. Angle then eye-raked Sting and landed a series of German suplexes. Sting and Jarrett were down, then Angle slowly looked around for Foley. He walked over the announce table and landed a running flip dive clear over the announce table into Foley's lap. Angle dragged Foley into the ring, then four-way action broke out.

At 11:00, Foley came to life and pulled out Socko II and III. Jarrett ate II and Sting ate III, then tried to cover both men with their shoulders on the mat, but Angle snuck in behind him and slapped on the anklelock. Foley escaped and bumped the ref in the process. Sting had a visual pin on Angle. Jarrett then KO'ed Sting with the guitar and scored a visual three count. Foley then cracked a chair over Jarrett's head and scored a two count with the ref to life. Everyone took a break, then Angle put both Sting and Jarrett in the anklelock until Foley broke it up. Foley DDT'ed Angle, then made the cover, but Sting broke it up.

Again, Foley vs. Sting and Angle vs. Jarrett. Jarrett took Angle up top and nailed The Stroke off the top into the face of the chair. Sting then snuck in behind Jarrett and covered Angle for the pin and the win to become leader of the Mafia. Afterward, Jarrett sold deep thought pondering the new role for Sting. Foley, meanwhile, took the title belt and dragged himself up the entranceramp. Sting then leaned over Angle's fallen body and talked to him. Tenay asked what new changes will take place as Foley clutched his title belt like a lost teddy bear to close the show.

WINNER: Sting at 15:01. Good main event. They used props and the four-way format effectively to create movement and build drama for each nearfall leading to the finish. Nice to see a legit finish, although the overall problem with this match was the TNA Title belt being a secondary or fourth-most-important element of the match. Title belt should always be the most-important when the title is on the line in a match. That was an inherent flaw in the match, but that doesn't take away from strong PPV main event performances from all four. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 26 2009, 01:55 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32313.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Opening sequence 'yak with Vince' was over 14 minutes long.

1 -- Divas champion MARYSE vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match

The action moved to the floor early on where Maryse smashed Kelly into the announce table. Maryse then pushed her over the announce table and apparently that was enough for a DQ. Post-match: Maryse went back into the ring, then Kelly tried to attack her, but Maryse escaped.

WINNER: Kelly Kelly via DQ at 3:25; Maryse retains Divas Title.

2 -- MATT HARDY vs. WILLIAM REGAL vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- #1 contender match to U.S. Title

Matt Hardy pulled a Mick Foley and excused himself from the match early on to wait for his opportunity. Kofi and Regal then had a miscommunication on an apparent Russian legsweep. Who knows what they were going for. Kofi wanted the boom-boom leg drop, but Matt tripped him from the floor. Matt then snuck back into the ring after a double clothesline and scored a double nearfall. MVP then came walking down to ringside to get a closer look at the action. Hardy in control going to break.

Back from break, Regal was working on Kofi. MVP now on commentary. Regal tried to pin Kofi, but Matt rolled him up from behind for a two count. MVP said all three potential opponents are dangerous and he wants to face the best of the best. Hardy then dumped Regal to the outside and focused on Kofi. He nailed a neckbreaker, but Regal re-entered and broke up the pin. Regal and Kofi then exchanged European uppercuts before Matt landed clotheslines on both men. Regal then smashed Matt's cast-covered hand to the mat and Matt rolled to the floor selling pain. Matt came right back in, knocked Regal to the floor, but then Kofi fired off a round of leaping clotheslines on Matt before landing the boom-boom leg drop for a two count.

At 8:30, Kofi jumped onto Matt in the corner, but Regal grappled him from behind for an exploder suplex. Matt with the side-effect on Regal for another two count. Matt with the side-effect on Kofi, but another two count. Matt wanted the Twist of Fate on Regal, but he countered with a side belly-to-back suplex. Regal then lowered his kneepad for a running strike on Kofi, but Kofi surprised him with the Jamaican Buzzsaw for a two count when Matt broke it up. Matt missed with a cast shot, then Kofi nailed him with the Buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win.

Post-match: They showed MVP smiling from ringside. He said he's looking forward to the match-up next week. Kofi then slipped out of the ring and approached MVP at the announce table. MVP stood up smiling and Kofi did the boom-boom hand clap in front of MVP. They exchanged smiles as MVP said he looks forward to giving Kofi that title shot.

WINNER: Kofi at 9:48 to earn U.S. Title shot next week. Really sloppy first-half of the match, then a very nice flurry to end the match. Kofi picking up the win should set up an interesting match next week. A contrast in styles could make for a great match. (**1/2)

Flair/Orton segment with the return of Mr. Kennedy: over 7 minutes long.

3 -- CHAVO GUERRERO & BETH PHOENIX vs. SANTINO MARELLA & MICKIE JAMES

Man on man and woman on woman here, then Santino and Chavo got caught up brawling during the divas portion of the match. The distraction allowed Mickie to roll up Beth from behind for the win. Chavo in trouble. Post-match: GM Vickie came out on stage sporting the Miss WrestleMania crown. She confidently said Chavo will be in her corner at Extreme Rules. Santino said he a ton of ideas for their Extreme Rules PPV match. Leaning Tower of Pisa Pepperoni match. Or a Pasta Primavera on a Pole match. Vince Russo special? Santino then decided on a Hog Pin match. No pop. That's right, oink oink oink, you're going to be with the pigs. Ross said he's seen a Hog Pin match and you don't want to be near it. It smells really bad.

WINNERS: Mickie & Santino at 1:37. Basic deal to set up the Extreme Rules deal to continue this well-played-out storyline. Hopefully this will be the blow-off match to this feud. Hopefully. (n/a)

4 -- THE BRIAN KENDRICK & FESTUS vs. GOLDUST & HORNSWOGGLE

Hornswoggle didn't want to start, but Goldust sent him into the ring to face off against Festus. Kendrick told Festus to hit him, but Festus didn't do anything. Kendrick then slap-tagged himself into the match and beat up Hornswoggle before Horny landed a swinging DDT. Goldust then tagged in and went after Kendrick. Kendrick slapped Festus, which upset Festus and allowed Goldust and Hornswoggle to double up on Kendrick, leading to Goldust hitting a turn-out facebuster - the Final Cut - for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Kendrick was upset with his latest pick for The Partner. Festus was motionless since the bell rang, so Kendrick grabbed a chair and brought it into the ring. Kendrick measured Festus for a chair shot, but Primo rang the ring bell, so Festus snapped to attention and scared Kendrick out of the ring.

WINNERS: Goldust & Hornswoggle at 2:13. Another filler TV match. The last half hour has really dragged. (n/a)

5 -- LAKERS (JOHN CENA & JERRY LAWLER & U.S. champion MVP & BATISA & MR. KENNEDY) vs. NUGGETS (WWE champion RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES & BIG SHOW & THE MIZ)

Back and forth action starting with Lawler against Rhodes. Ross had a flashback to the territory era saying those two last names. Cut to break with both teams gaining and losing control.

Back to Raw where DiBiase was working over MVP in center ring. MVP wanted a hot tag, but Miz flew across the ring to cut him off. Mr. Kennedy finally took the hot tag and landed right hand blows. Kennedy was then knocked to the floor and the heels smashed him into the guardrail as the ref tried to control ten men at one time. Kennedy continued to take a beating back in the ring as the heels tagged in and out to work him over.

Cody came in and Ross said he will no doubt have a different pace than Big Show. Nice way of saying he's the Big Slow. Crowd tried to fire up Kennedy with a "Let's go Lakers" chant, but the heel Nuggets put baby in the corner to continue working him over. Orton came in and slowly worked over Kennedy, settling for a reverse chinlock. There's ten men in this match and they're going with a reverse chinlock to continue working on Kennedy. Need Lucha Libre rules here to keep the action moving. Kennedy finally escaped Orton's clutches and made the hot tag to Cena. Cody also took a tag. Cena exploded on Cody with shoulder tackles before hitting the sit-out slam and setting up the Five Knuckle Shuffle, only to tag in MVP for a double team You Can't See Me and Ballin' elbow drop. Nice spot. Lawler then entered with a VINTAGE punch to clear out the heels. MVP with the Playmaker on Cody for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Lakers at 16:06. Send 'em home happy match to put the exclamation point on WWE's anti-Nuggets week. So ridiculous they had an extended beat down on Kennedy with ten men in the match. There has to be a balance between TNA's highspot fests and WWE's "isolate someone for eight hours" formula tag matches, especially with four men on the apron. Match didn't sell a PPV, but they have one more episode of TV to take care of that. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 27 2009, 02:36 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 5-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32351.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KOZLOV vs. RUSS TAYLOR & JOEY MUNOS

Mathews said Kozlov is unde-fleated on ECW and he requested this two-on-one match to show his superiority as a fighting force. Kozlov knocked Joey to the floor, then Russ tried to get himself some, but Kozlov head-butted him in mid-air. Kozlov with a front bear hug toss for the pin and the win. No post-match promo? Apparently Kozlov was tired from the work-out.

WINNER: Kozlov in 2:00. Yay, another squash for Kozlov. Book that real punching bag against Kozlov and let's see how tough he really is. (n/a)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Bourne tried to run away from Henry, but Henry cornered him and smashed him into the gut. Henry took his sweet time wearing down Bourne as Atlas shouted instructions. Striker filled us in that the initials on the outfit mean "Somebody's Gonna Hurt Somebody." Nice to know. Henry continued to slow this down, taking away Bourne's offense and any interest in continuing to watch the match. Bourne tried to make sure people didn't click away with knee strikes before landing kicks to the back and front. Bourne landed an enziguiri from his knees that knocked down Henry, then he went up top as the audience came to life anticipating a Shooting Star. Henry rolled to the outside, though, and Bourne landed a big double-knee smash that knocked down Henry. Ref was focused on-camera, so you knew a count-out was coming. Bourne gathered himself and ran off Henry's back into the ring at nine. Henry couldn't make it back in, so he was counted out, giving Bourne the win. Mathews sold it as a career-defining moment for Bourne getting a victory over Henry. Henry chucked the ring steps around the ring in frustration before shouting back to Bourne that he's lucky to be alive.

WINNER: Bourne via count-out in 7:00. Dragged in the beginning before a fine finish with the tease of the Shooting Star Press and Bourne finding a way to win without really winning to continue the program. (*)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER & HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & DAVID HART SMITH w/Natalya) vs. ECW champion CHRISTIAN & TOMMY DREAMER -- handicap match

Striker said Finlay would be out here if doctors cleared him, but it's difficult to do simple tasks with just one eye. Striker gave us an eye exercise to try looking at the TV screen with just one eye. Ah, the old "find out which eye is your dominant eye" trick. I remember that one. Cover one eye and see which one focuses on the object without it moving. Or, is the dominant eye the one where you object shifts? I never could remember. Dang it Striker. Anyways, match started with HD working over Christian. Smith looked kind of silly with black trunks and pink kneepads. Swagger then tagged in and tossed Christian to the mat with a waistlock. Christian finally made a comeback on Swagger and tagged in Dreamer, who told Christian how this tag team operation was going to work.

Dreamer, showing more aggression tonight, pounded Swagger into the corner. Mathews reminded us that Dreamer's contract expires at Extreme Rules after he signed a one-day extension. He's gone if he doesn't win the title. He should have waited until the day of the PPV and pulled a Jeff Jarrett to demand a lump sum payment. Anyways... Dreamer and Christian exchanged words, which lulled Swagger into a false sense of security and they dumped him to the floor. Champ and Dream took out the Dynasty on the floor, then Christian splashed Swagger on the outside. Christian rolled Swagger back into the ring and made a cover for a two count. Dynasty took control in a quiet arena as they cut to break.

Back from break, Dreamer was in control trying to finish off Swagger, but Swags reversed the Dreamer DDT into a belly-to-belly suplex. Smith then tagged in to begin working on Dreamer. Kidd came in for a few moments to scream at Dreamer before Smith re-entered for a long-standing vertical suplex to wear down Dreamer.

Smith went back to work on Dreamer to ground him and prevent a tag to Christian. Swagger came in and knocked Christian off the apron, but Dreamer broke free from HD facing Kidd. Christian finally took the hot tag at 17:30 to little or no reaction. Crowd dead for this. Kidd tried a suplex on Christian, but Christian blocked and nailed the pendulum kick out of the corner. Christian nailed a second-rope European Uppercut before clearing HD off the apron to go up top. He wanted a top rope missile dropkick and he connected for a two count when Smith broke it up. Dreamer then clotheslined Smith and himself over the top rope. Meanwhile, Swagger took a tag and shoved Christian shoulder-first into the ringpost. Swagger followed with a gutwrench powerbomb on Christian for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Swagger & Hart Dynasty in 19:00. Long, drawn-out tag match that lost the crowd half-way through. The crowd wasn't into the show anyways, so not a big deal. Match was a decent TV showcase for all five men, including Dreamer with his new intensity. But, it had a little bit of that Raw ten-man tag side effect of everyone canceling each other to some degree. Still, HD shined at the end of the day and Christian was put in jeopardy to set up the ECW Title match in two Sundays. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 29 2009, 11:19 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32394.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Unified tag champs PRIMO & CARLITO COLON vs. CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN -- non-title match

Nice, quick pace to this one early on. Carlito and Primo flew in and out of the ring exchanging tags before Primo escalated the action at 4:00 with a run-up huracanrana on Shelton. Primo then dumped Shelton to the apron, but Charlie ran interference and Shelton yanked Primo's left arm across the top rope. Tag champs in trouble going to break.

Back from break, WWE gave us a nice close-up of Primo's face as Haas was working him over on the mat. Heels continued to work on Primo's left arm and shoulder since he's a lefty. Haas with a sick-looking shoulder wrench making Primo's shoulder touch his ear. Nice spot where Shelton caught Primo off the ropes and tossed him high up into the air. Cryme Tyme's music interrupted 12 minutes into the match and they came out on stage to distract Shelton. Primo tried to roll up Shelton from behind, but Shelton kicked out. Primo finally made the hot tag to Carlito as Cryme Tyme added their soundtrack to the match. Carlito landed a springboard elbow smash as Cryme Tyme talked trash to Shelton, who was on the apron. Carlito then executed a sweet springboard backflip over Haas's shoulders into position for the backstabber for the pin and the win. Post-match: tag champs hugged it out with Cryme Tyme for their assist in securing the victory.

WINNERS: Primo & Carlito in 14:00. Nice, physical tag team action. Carlito's finisher on Haas was a potential stand-out moment on this week's show. Looked a bit choreographed, but it still looked very impressive. Cryme Tyme helping the champs was fine for the purpose of getting them on TV. (**)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. FINLAY

Swagger was aggressive early on, then Finlay tried to attack him from the middle rope, but Swagger pushed Finlay off the top to the floor. Finlay's wrist broke his fall and he sold an injury before returning to the ring where Swagger grounded him on the mat. Swagger shoved Finlay into the ropes, then Finlay bumped Swagger over the ropes to the floor. Finlay tried to follow up, but Swagger rammed him back-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Swagger showed off his power with a running powerslam off the top turnbuckle, then to the mat for a nearfall. Swagger distracted himself teasing use of the shillelagh, which gave Finlay an opening. Swagger avoided the Celtic Cross, though, and nailed the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Swagger at 5:00. Good showcase of Swagger's physical abilities to balance the high-flying athleticism in the opening match. (*1/2)

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. TED DIBIASE, JR.

Cole told us Cena has a lot of things on his mind, like the Submissions Match against Big Show at Extreme Rules. Lawler said Cena needs to focus on his opponent tonight. Lawler then stacked the deck against Cena for ER that he doesn't recall Show ever submitting before. As for the match, DiBiase and Cena exchanged control in the opening minutes. DiBiase then tried a cross-body block, but Cena rolled through and did a squat into FU position, but DiBiase escaped and rolled to the floor. Cena chased and DiBiase rammed him into the ring steps to take control going to break.

Back from break, DiBiase was in control. DiBiase cut off Cena's comeback with a standing dropkick, eliciting more comments from Lawler that DiBiase is an Orton clone. Cena then made his full comeback with the Cena Combo of shoulder tackles, sit-out, and Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the FU, but DiBiase escaped with elbow strikes and landed a powerslam for a two count. Nice aggressiveness fm DiBiase. Cena came back with a back body drop, then he wanted the FU again, but DiBiase grabbed the ropes and landed an elbow to the face.

DiBiase then flew off the second rope with a flying clothesline before executing a knee-drop shoulder breaker/gutbuster for a two count. Cena rolled to the ring apron to buy some time, then both men went up top. Cena knocked Ted off the top before hitting the guillotine leg drop from a long distance. He instantly slapped on the STFU and DiBiase tapped in less than two seconds. Cena smiled for the crowd and celebrated the victory to wrap up the show.

WINNER: Cena in 12:00. Everyone knew Cena was winning, so it was a matter of making DiBiase look good in the process. I thought DiBiase had a very nice showing in a showcase singles match. DiBiase and Swagger wrestle a similar style, but still have their own differences to be stand-out young stars on the rise. I imagine this won't be the last time we see Cena vs. DiBiase in a TV main event. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2009, 10:07 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parl's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32398.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- AMAZING RED vs. SUICIDE- X-DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

What has Red done since his return to earn a title shot? Red went for his first pin attempt of the match off a bodyslam from Suicide. Suicide though turned him inside-out with a clothesline. They went to a split-screen to show the Main Event Mafia arriving earlier in the day. Sting headed the line as Sharmell and Jenna were continuing their argument, and Kurt Angle was last, with his head hung in disappointment. At 2:00, Suicide signaled for the end, but Red dodged a move in the corner and Suicide hit him with a dropkick. Red hit a DDT after countering a tilt-a-whirl and both men were down. He caught fire at 4:00, with a dropkick in the corner and a pin attempt. He set up for Code Red but Suicide flipped him over in a nice move, but only got two. Red rolled Suicide up for a near-fall. Crowd was chanting “Let’s Go Red.” Out of nowhere, Suicide landed the Suicide Solution for the win.

WINNER: Suicide, at 5:18. An OK match, but with no hype and no reason given for Red to have the shot, this just felt like a throw-away.

2- DOUG WILLIAMS vs. CODY DEANER- LADDER MATCH WITH X-DIVISION TITLE BRIEFCASE AT STAKE

Williams took Deaner down immediately, then started to climb the ladder. Deaner hooked his leg as Tenay sent out condolences to Homicide, who had a death in the family and wasn’t in the arena to accept this challenge and try to get his briefcase back. Williams had Deaner in a head-lock, then landed a European Uppercut. ODB was at ringside cheering on her man. Williams toyed with Deaner caught in the corner. Williams again climbed the ladder, but Deaner leaped off the second rope and nailed Williams in the back, knocking him off the ladder. Deaner couldn’t take advantage though and Williams was back on offense in no time. Williams slammed Deaner right on the ladder. The Brit missed a knee-drop though and Deaner attempted to set up the ladder, but Williams cross-bodied himself onto Deaner and the ladder. Williams got back-dropped onto the ladder. Magnus and Rob Terry took hold of the ladder at ringside and Deaner dropped Williams over the top rope and onto them. ODB slipped the ladder in to Deaner and Deaner got hold of the case, but Williams made it in in time to push the ladder over and Deaner took a scary bump off the ropes and to the outside. Williams got to the case with ease.

WINNER: Williams, at 5:12. Match featured a couple big bumps but Deaner isn’t a serious threat anyway.

After the match, Kiyoshi and Sheik Abdul Bashir came to the ring to celebrate with the British Invasion.

3- ANGELINA LOVE vs. SOJOURNER BOLT- KNOCKOUTS CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Bolt went for a few quick pins to no avail. Drop-toe hold into the middle turnbuckle went Bolt. Love did some choking in the corner. Bicycle kick by Love right to Bolt’s face for two. Nice move. Bolt fought back with right hands, then a slap. Face-first went Love to the mat as Bolt appeared to be losing her pants. Madison Rayne got on the apron to distract Earl Hebner while Love sprayed what I presume is hair spray in Bolt’s face, then hit her finisher for the win.

WINNER: Love, at 2:33.

4- ERIC YOUNG vs. JEFF JARRETT- KING OF THE MOUNTAIN QUALIFYING MATCH

Jarrett landed a dropkick at the outset, then Young came back and did the same. Inverted atomic drop and a flying forearm by Young as I had visions of Shawn Michaels’ finishing sequence. Roll-up by Jarrett for two. Flip sell in the corner by Young but Jarrett got the best of him and went for a figure-four. Young instead got a small package for two. Young caught Jarrett in a powerbomb for two. Young missed a moonsault and Jarrett came back with The Stroke, but Eric put his foot on the rope. Wheelbarrow attempt by Young but Jarrett turned it into a roll-up for the win.

WINNER: Jarrett, at 3:25.

Young was visibly upset after the match but he offered a handshake. You can see where this one is going. Jarrett shook hands and Young left. I guess not. Jarrett called him back in and prompted the fans to cheer for him. They hugged then Young went after the leg. Ah, I was right. Young focused his attack on the leg and went to the top rope, elbowdropping that leg. He stood over Jarrett and seemed to be in some sort of trance.

5- AJ STYLES vs. DANIELS- KING OF THE MOUNTAIN QUALIFYING MATCH

West played up these two knowing a lot about each other and having a long history during the match. Nice dropkick by Styles sent Daniels crawling to the apron. Styles caught Daniels on the outside of the ring, then they went to break about 2:00 in.

Styles with a neck-breaker for two on Daniels. Rear chin-lock on Daniels as the crowd did dueling chants for Styles and Daniels. Styles was hung over the second rope and given a neck-breaker right into it in a sweet looking move. Daniels rolled Styles back into the ring but missed a cross-body off the top rope. Springboard flying forearm from Styles. Hard clothesline by AJ and a spinning back kick (and a beauty). Powerbomb by Daniels for two. “This is awesome” chant from the crowd for that. Daniels said it was over. BME was no good but he landed on his feet, only to be greeted with the Pele kick. Styles tried the Styles Clash, but it was reversed. Angels Wings attempt, but Styles turned it into a hurricanrana with a roll-up for the pin.

WINNER: Styles, at 8:43. Good, but ultimately forgettable match.

Through the crowd came Shane Douglas after Styles left the ring. He wrapped a chain around his hand and belted Daniels with it. Douglas left through the crowd as Styles made his way back to the ring to check on Daniels, who was bleeding from the mouth.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2009, 01:29 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32428.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- R-TRUTH & THE GREAT KHALI vs. MIKE KNOX & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Truth rapped his way to the ring with Khali and Singh. Khali even gave a few “what’s up!” shouts. Then all three of them danced in the ring. Quite a sight indeed. Truth started the match against Ziggler. Nice roll-up by Truth for two, then a hip-toss. He’s got extra springs in his boots tonight. As soon as Khali tagged in, Ziggler tagged out. Big boot from Khali. That was the extent of his involvement, as he tagged back out. Truth got caught with a big clothesline. JR mentioned that Ziggler graduated from Kent State with a pre-law degree. Ziggler and Truth collided in mid-air as they both went for a cross-body 3:00 into the match. Both men made tags and Khali got the best of Knox. Ziggler tried to fly off the top rope, but Khali caught him by the throat. This allowed Knox to try to get the upper-hand. It was unsuccessful. After a back-kick by Khali, they showed Ziggler leaving the ringside area. Khali Bomb on Knox and it was academic from there.

WINNERS: Khali & Truth, at 4:07. Khali has become almost watchable in the ring. Combine that with Truth’s abilities and it made for a decent little match.

2- MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX

Fox was accompanied by Michelle McCool. She also has music that sounds like part of the opening of Nelly’s “Hot in Here.” Melina did the Matrix to avoid a clothesline, then kicked Fox from that position. McCool provided some distraction on the outside, allowing Fox to kick Melina hard through the ropes. Back-breaker by the former wedding planner and that got a one-count. Melina used her flexibility again to get the best of Alicia. Side-kick to the mid-section got two. McCool got on the apron and allowed Fox to knock Melina off the top rope. Melina though for some reason didn’t really sell it much and went back on offense, finishing off Fox with her split-legged neck-breaker.

WINNER: Melina, at 2:32.

3- UMAGA vs. JOHN MORRISON

Umaga used his strength to his advantage early on. He missed a charge in the corner, but came back to shoulderblock Morrison down. Back-and-forth in the first minute or two, as Morrison low-bridged Umaga to the outside. Springboard cross-body by Morrison found the mark. Back in the ring, a sunset flip attempt failed, but Umaga also whiffed on a sit-down splash. Just as Morrison got momentum, he was thrown in the air and came down in a Samoan drop. Morrison rolled out of the ring as the show went to break.

Umaga had Morrison in a rest-hold back from break. It seems like that’s the new thing now, like going out of the ring was a signal to go to break, lots of times when they come back I feel like the guys are sitting in a hold. Umaga hung Morrison out gut-first on the top rope, then superkicked him to ringside. Morrison tried to get back on offense in the ring, but Umaga turned him inside-out on a clothesline. Nerve-hold applied by Umaga. Crowd got a little into it, but not completely. Morrison came back with a Pele kick (as called by JR), but was side-slammed down by the former Three Minute Warning member. Another nerve hold, working the left arm as well and the crowd seemed to get restless. Morrison countered another side slam with a DDT. Cover got two. Morrison started to come on, but a thrust to the throat sent Morrison back down. To the outside, Umaga grabbed the strap and hit Morrison with it, drawing a DQ.

WINNER: Morrison, by DQ, at 12:57. Solid match, despite the rest-holds. They were kept relatively short and the action outside of them was very good.

4- CRYME TYME vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN & CHARLIE HAAS

This match is taking place because of the situation that occurred on last night’s WWE Superstars program, where a Cryme Tyme distraction allowed the Colons to beat Haas & Shelton. Haas showed good aggressiveness in pounding away at JTG on the mat. Haas tried to fight out of the corner as JTG laid in the shoulders. Shad came in, but Haas got his feet up on a charge attempt by Gaspard. Benjamin applied a waist-lock to Shad but couldn’t do anything with it. Flying shoulder tackle by Shad. The heels were able to do some double-teaming when the ref was occupied with Shad in the opposite corner. JTG was in a bad way as they went to break.

Haas was working on keeping JTG away from his corner upon return. What’s the deal with the faces in tag matches always being in the top left of the TV screen, and the heels always being in the bottom right corner? Shelton came in and kept up the attack on JTG. Charlie was yelling “let me have some!” from the corner so Shelton did make the tag. He slapped JTG in the head, telling him he cost them their match last night. JTG came back with some right hands, but that didn’t last long. JTG fought out of a neutral corner, then dodged a splash attempt. German suplex by Benjamin and JTG finally came back against Haas. Both men were down at the 10:00 mark. They were able to make tags and Shad cleaned house. The fans weren’t as in to Cryme Tyme as I expected. JTG took out Haas but Shelton hit Paydirt on Shad for the win.

WINNERS: Benjamin & Haas, at 11:31. Another above-average tag match. There will be three on the show, counting the main event. That’s odd for a company that doesn’t like tag teams.

5- EVE TORRES vs. LAYLA

JR mentioned that this match has NBA ties: Eve was a dancer for the LA Clippers and of course, Layla was on the dance team for the Miami Heat. According to JR, she even has a championship ring from the 2006 season. The girls rolled around on the mat pulling each others hair, and they even rolled to ringside. Layla slammed Eve’s back against the apron. She continued to work on Eve’s back and an early cover got two. Hair toss by Layla, then she stretched out Eve’s arms and back. Dropkick to the back this time and another two-count. Both ladies went face-first on the mat, grabbing each other’s hair. Eve fought back with forearms and landed a few clotheslines. Dropkick on Layla and a sunset flip got two. Cross-body by Layla, but Eve rolled through and picked up the victory.

WINNER: Eve, at 3:11. Not quite bowling-shoe ugly, but close. But they are gorgeous, so that made it a little more palatable.

6A- EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO vs. REY MYSTERIO & JEFF HARDY

Jericho didn’t come out when he was announced, but I’m assuming he can join the match at any time. On his way to the ring, Rey got attacked by one of the fans he bumped heads with in the crowd, and who was wearing a Rey mask and a t-shirt. He hopped over the railing and it was revealed to be Jericho. He tried to un-mask Rey, but Jeff Hardy ran down just in time to make the save. He checked on along with refs and medics as the show went to break.

6B- EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO vs. JEFF HARDY- HANDICAP MATCH

Ring announcer Justin Roberts said Hardy agreed to the contest as a handicap match. Hardy tried to put Jericho away early, using some of his signature moves and he went for a Swanton under a minute in. Edge caused a distraction and Jeff hit him instead with a double axe-handle. Hardy propelled himself to Edge on the outside. Jericho, the legal man, took out Hardy before he could get back into the ring. Jericho dropped a knee on Hardy’s head back in the ring and proclaimed “that’s it!” It was not. Y2J tagged Edge in and he got a kick to the gut on Hardy. I guess they figure we’ve seen Hardy vs. Edge so much in the past, it wouldn’t hurt to give away some more in-ring action between the two in the weeks leading up to Extreme Rules. Tag in to Jericho, who taunted Hardy, and Jeff tried to come back. Didn’t work, but he did get his knees up on a Lionsault attempt. Edge came in but Jeff corralled him with a clothesline. Mule kick landed right in Edge’s chest. A set of clotheslines by Jeff and then a corner dropkick. Twist of Fate was no good, but Jeff pushed Edge into Jericho. A roll-up by Hardy got two, then Jericho got illegally involved. Whisper in the Wind took down both men. Twist of Fate (sorta) on Jericho, but Hardy turned around and right into a spear, followed by a pin.

WINNERS: Edge & Jericho, at 7:10.

Edge went under the ring after the match and retrieved a ladder. He rammed the ladder straight into Hardy’s face. Edge then slammed it on Hardy’s body. He took the belt and stood on the ladder, which was on the ground with Hardy laying in between the two sides. Quite the visual there. A replay of the finish of the match and Edge’s ladder-related attack were shown. Medics tended to Hardy as Edge celebrated.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 02 2009, 02:05 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-1-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32503.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- BATISTA vs. CODY RHODES -- steel cage match

Batista pounded Cody left and right to start things off, so Cody tried to climb the wall to get out, but Batista yanked him back down to the mat. He landed a spear at 2:00, then Orton slowly made his way down to ringside as the kiddos near the arena mic screamed in horror at the sight of Orton ringside. Cody tried to take advantage of Orton's distraction to escape by climbing out, but Batista grabbed him and delivered a Batistabomb out of the corner. Batista made the cover for the pin and the win. He then paraded around the ring before staring down at Orton to give him a warning message.

WINNER: Batista at 3:15. Dominating victory for Batista to set up the Extreme Rules title match. Cody seems to be in that role of being presented with the main eventers, but simply to bump around for them. DiBiase is being protected considerably more right now. (*)

2 -- Divas champion MARYSE & BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES

Typical back-and-forth exchanges in this one. Beth and Mickie brawled to the floor, leaving Maryse and Kelly. Maryse nailed a DDT with an extra whip (to match her trademark hair whip) on Kelly for the pin and the win. Maryse celebrated post-match.

WINNER: Maryse & Beth at 2:50. Your basic three-minute Divas match.

3 -- Unified tag champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON vs. WILLIAM REGAL & MATT HARDY

Hardy still sporting the cast over the broken hand. Cole said he's still hearing questions in the locker room that Hardy is milking the injury and he's not really injured. To make this match seem somewhat important, Cole said that if Regal & Hardy win, they receive a future tag title shot. Hardy started off against Primo, then Hardy and Regal double-teamed him while exchanging a few choice words for each other. Carlito finally took a much-needed hot tag to liven this up. Hardy then accidentally blasted Regal with the cast allowing Carlito to nail Regal from behind with the backstabber for the pin and the win. Afterward, Regal and Hardy jawed at each other and teased coming to blows, but no contact.

WINNERS: Primo & Carlito at 4:20. Really slow paced tag match as Primo took a beating for a while. Just a chance to get the tag champs on TV for another win and to build tension between Hardy and Regal for whatever purpose that will serve down the road. (3/4*)

4 -- THE MIZ & BIG SHOW vs. JOHN CENA & CHAVO GUERRERO

Cena and Show faced off center-ring to start things off, but the ref never called for the opening bell. So, apparently it's an unsanctioned match. In any event, Show pounded Cena down to the mat to start things off. He stalked Cena for a submission hold, but Cena squirmed underneath Show and went for the STF. Cena couldn't apply it, though, and Show flung him to the outside. Show stalled the ref, then Miz punched Cena on the floor. Show didn't want any help, so he ran after Miz and told him not to touch Cena. Cena slowly made his way back into the ring, then he tried to counter a splash with a scoop slam, but Show fell on top of Cena for a two count. Miz then blind-tagged himself into the match as Show bounced off the ropes, which certainly didn't please Show. Miz tried to sneak in a pin, but Cena kicked out. Miz then landed his trademark clothesline in the corner before stomping a mudhole in Cena for another two count.

Cena fought back at 3:30 with right hands, then he set up the ol' Cena comeback combo leading to the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Miz. Cena wanted the FU, but Show blind-tagged himself into the match. Ref didn't see the blind tag, though, and disallowed Show's involvement. Show simply re-set the action for Miz to tag him in, but Miz wanted no part of a tag. Miz turned around and Show blasted him with the Big Punch from the apron. Miz was KO'ed, then Chavo blind-tagged himself in for his first involvement in the match and covered Miz for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Chavo jumped up and down celebrating, then Cena gave him the FU in the corner. Show licked his lips eager to go after Cena and he gave Cena the Big Punch to KO Cena. Kids and women screamed as Show stalked Cena for a submission hold. Show put Cena's lifeless body in the Camel Clutch and locked it in for a good while before releasing the hold.

WINNERS: Chavo & Cena at 4:53 unofficial time. Unique tag match to set up Show vs. Cena at Extreme Rules in the Submission match. Certainly stacked the deck against Cena for Sunday with him appearing to have no chance of slapping on a submission on Show, or avoiding Show's Big Punch and Camel Clutch. Not sure if it's going to convince anyone to spend $40, but by-the-book WWE PPV build. Miz kinda-sorta benefited by getting over his personality, but he was more of a bystander for this. (*1/2)

5 -- U.S. champion MVP vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- United States Title match

Kofi came out, then MVP second as the announcers talked up the Prom deal with MVP and Sherri Shepherd. "I never got to go the prom," Cole said. That's just too easy. I'm moving along. Bell sounded and the babyfaces did their feeling out process with big smiles trying to test each other out. Slow build, then Kofi pulled out a series of pin attempts for nearfalls. Kofi then executed a leaping dropkick and told MVP he's "that close" to winning. Cut to break with Kofi confident.

Back from break, MVP was in control. Kofi nailed a leaping elbow smash to comeback, then he jumped on MVP's shoulders in the corner to execute a rolling huracanrana for a two count. MVP then popped up and nailed a big boot to the face for a two count of his own. MVP followed with the Ballin' elbow drop for another nearfall. Kofi blocked a corner splash with a pendulum kick, then he went up top, but MVP crotched him and executed a big superplex. Both men crashed down hard with MVP taking a blow to the back of the head on impact. MVP and Kofi then had a classic rolling pin attempt exchange on the mat with neither man able to secure a pin. Double clothesline and both men fell to the mat to recover.

They came to their feet at 10:00 and started exchanging blows. Kofi rebounded off the ring ropes into MVP, who nailed a German Suplex with a bridge pin, but Kofi kicked out. Kofi then came back with a sick rolling frontslam, but MVP kicked out. MVP tried to come back with the Playmaker, but Kofi escaped and tried to hit the buzzsaw kick, but MVP ducked. Kofi then hopped on MVP's shoulders for a reverse huracanrana, but MVP tried to roll him up, only to have Kofi roll through and pin his shoulders for a three count.

Post-match: Kofi celebrated the title victory and MVP grabbed the U.S. Title belt. He handed it to Kofi, who accepted with a big smile. MVP was shown smirking on the floor like he couldn't believe Kofi beat him tonight. Kofi did the boom-boom handclap to celebrate as Cole called him the future of Raw.

WINNER: Kofi at 11:18 to capture the U.S. Title. Excellent title match. Probably hit 85 percent of the "medium-to-hard" spots they were going for and pulled off a very good match. Crowd was quiet for the most part, but that's been the case throughout the show. Interesting to see the title switch, as WWE is so "hot and cold" with Kofi's push. We'll see how this is followed up. (***)

6 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. VICKIE GUERRERO

Santino picked up a bucket of slop and threatened to hit Vickie with it. Crowd screamed as William Regal and Matt Hardy stormed the ring. Santino spun around and "accidentally" flung the slop everywhere, landing on Regal, the cameraman, and the announcers. Regal sold it for a while so the crowd could get a good laugh, then Hardy and Regal beat up Santino. Hardy landed a Cast Shot on Santino before Regal and Hardy put Santino in position to accept more slop on the mat. Vickie cackled as she grabbed another bucket of slop and teased Santino's lifeless body with more punishment. She slowly dropped some slop on Santino's scrotumus region before slowly pouring it out on Santino's face, neck, and eyes. She covered Santino's torso with slop while cackling. Lawler said every pig has its day, like every dog has its day. Vickie put her foot on Santino's chest to close the segment.

WINNER: Bell never sounded. Ref was as useful for this segment as an incompetently-booked TNA ref. Just a mid-ring "filler attempt at comedy" segment to promote the slop fest on Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2009, 11:47 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 6-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32531.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Striker incorporated a "Finding Nemo" reference into the opening sequence, saying Bourne shouldn't stray too far away from his safety zone when trying not to be eaten by Henry. Henry grounded Bourne, then bent Bourne's back against the ringpost to stretch him out. Henry continued the Big Show formula match of landing a move, walking around, then landing another move. Henry then wanted a big splash off the ropes, but Bourne rolled out of the way just in time. Bourne came back with kick strikes before landing a double-foot dropkick for an ill-advised pin attempt that Henry escaped by bench-pressing Bourne across the ring.

Henry then overhead tossed Bourne over the top rope to the floor. Ref told Henry not to follow on the outside, meanwhile, Atlas tried to interfere. Ref turned around and saw Atlas grabbing Bourne, so he called for a DQ, giving Bourne the win. Afterward, Henry was dumped to the floor and then he chewed out Atlas for always screwing things up. Atlas simply hung his head in shame to take the verbal beating.

WINNER: Bourne via DQ in 5:00. Bourne picks up a second straight win over Henry without really winning. Slow-paced match that briefly showcased Bourne. WWE just doesn't know what to do with him long-term right now. As a result, they're going back to teasing the Henry-Atlas break up that started seemingly forever ago. (1/2*)

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. DUSTIN CARWILE

Announcers as quiet as the crowd to start. Ryder adjusted his hair, then nailed a missile dropkick off the top rope. He followed with a reverse Fameasser (the back of Carwile's head snapping off Ryder's shin as Ryder falls backwards). Ryder with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 2:00. Just a match. Ryder is narcissistic, likes his hair, and does Woo Woo Woo. Announcers simply didn't have any talking points to do anything with this to enhance Ryder's character. (n/a)

3 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Katie with a slight distraction early on allowing Burchill to take control with a mat hold. Mathews tried to create dialogue about BurchLea being from Chelsea, England, but Striker just balked at the topic choice and they moved back to calling the match. It's like Mathews and Striker are on a blind date each week where one tries to start a topic, but the other roadblocks it, then they pause for a while trying to think of what to talk about next. Anyways, Burchill took Dreamer to the corner and stomped him down with boots to the chest. Dreamer then reversed a whip and nailed a Russian legsweep. Dreamer with a running bulldog for a two count, then Dreamer nailed a reverse DDT. He made a cover, but Burchill's hand was underneath the ropes.

Burchill came back with a fallaway slam for a two count. He stalked Dreamer for a corner splash, but ate the corner turnbuckle instead. Dreamer followed right up with the Dreamer DDT for the pin and the win. Afterward, Dreamer sold a ton of enthusiasm for potentially his final ECW TV match. Dreamer soaked it all in before pointing to the crowd to thank them for their support.

WINNER: Dreamer in 6:00. Another slow-paced match, but the crowd warmed up a little near the end. Burchill was good in his role, but he's still just a mid-card brute without any sense of purpose on ECW TV. Couldn't even tell you the last time he won a match. (*)

4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya and D.H. Smith) -- non-title match

Slow build with each man feeling the other out before Christian landed a leg whip off the ropes to send Kidd to the corner to recover. Kidd went to the mat with an armbar, but Christian slipped out and stood off against him. They grappled again and ended on the floor. Christian was momentarily distracted by the Harts, which allowed Kidd to shove Christian back-of-the-head-first into the ring steps. Cut to break.

[Commercial Break]

Back from break, Kidd was in control. He pulled out a move from Lance Storm's book with a rolling half-crab in center ring. Ref Chioda violently asked Christian if he wanted to give up, as if he was mad at Christian for even being in the hold. Christian didn't give up, but opted for a surprise small package roll-up for a two count. Kidd then went back to the mat and demanded Angry Ref ask Christian if he wanted to give it up. Christian didn't, then he made his comeback by shoving Kidd's throat into the bottom rope by standing on his neck. Christian then nailed a missile dropkick and made a cover for a two count. Crowd alive 59 minutes into the show. Christian teased the Killswitch, but Kidd blocked. Kidd then blocked a sunset flip attempt with a pin and scored a two count.

Kidd kicked Christian in the gut, then back, then wanted a running codebreaker, but Christian countered with a sit-out bomb for a two count. Christian flipped Kidd to the apron, then Kidd wanted a springboard move, but Christian mid-air countered with a powerslam for another nearfall. Christian with the pendulum kick, then he went up top, only to have Swagger came out on the ramp for a closer look. The distraction allowed Kidd to knock Christian off the top rope and nail a nice-looking guillotine leg drop. Cover only resulted in a two count, though. Swagger then approached the ring steps to loud screams of horror, but Tommy Dreamer ran to ringside to loud cheers and he knocked Swagger into Smith. Dreamer nailed a cannonball dive onto Smith and Swagger, but Kidd kicked Dreamer through the ropes. After the melee calmed down, Christian and Kidd regrouped for their finishing sequence with Christian nailing the Killswitch in center ring. Christian with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Christian in 16:00. Very nice second-half to the match after the two pros built a slow story to let the crowd warm up to the action. Swagger and Dreamer's involvement enhanced the match and completed the strong second-half of the show trying to sell Extreme Rules on the basis of the three-way ECW Title match. (***)

Post-match: Dreamer came into the ring clapping it up for Christian, who accepted his ECW Title belt and showed it off to the crowd. Christian and Dreamer finally came face-to-face and Christian held out the ECW Title belt for Dreamer to get a good look at it. They seemed to bury last week's disagreement with respect going to Sunday, but Dreamer spun Christian back into his grasp for a Dreamer DDT center ring. Crowd booed initially, then cheered slightly as Dreamer did his arms-extended E-C-W pose center ring. Dreamer in control going to Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 05 2009, 01:29 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 6-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32574.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GOLDUST & HORNSWOGGLE vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK & JAMIE NOBLE

Before the bell, Hornswoggle grabbed Kendrick's jacket and ran around ringside with it on. Lawler equated Kendrick to a little person, saying Kendrick was more upset that it fit Hornswoggle rather than him actually stealing it. Goldust towered over everyone in here. Hornswoggle took a tag to work on Kendrick, who cut him off then did the "stop slapping yourself" thing eight year-olds kids do to each other. Goldust took a hot tag at 3:00 and whipped Kendrick around the ring. Goldust then suplexed Noble over the top rope to the floor and Hornswoggle ran off the apron with a cannonball dive onto Noble. Kendrick tried to nail Goldust with Sliced Bread, but Goldust escaped and hit a facebuster. Horny then took a tag and nailed the Tadpole Splash on Kendrick, who quietly and quickly pulled Hornswoggle onto him after Horny overshot the finish. Horny with the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Hornswoggle & Goldust in 4:00. Well, the crowd sounded reasonably excited for the action. Kendrick and Noble were virtually turned into midgets, which won't help them build any credibility to be viable threats as heels. Good news is they're on TV and creative has something for them right now. (*)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. D.H. SMITH (w/Hart Dynasty - Tyson Kidd and Natalya)

Christian said he didn't appreciate Dreamer dropping him on his head at the end of ECW on Tuesday. He said Dreamer is obviously feeling the pressure and he brought this "quest" on himself, so he's lashing out against him with the sand running out of the hour glass. Dreamer held control in the first two minutes, then Smith went to the floor to recover, only to have Dreamer dropkick him to the floor in front of the announce desk. Smith rammed Dreamer into the ring apron, then Smith and Kidd approached Christian, who asked them what their problem is. Dreamer took advantage by nailing a clothesline on the floor. Cut to break.

Striker wanted to get to the bottom of the issue with Christian "cheating" to beat Jack Swagger the last two times they faced each other. Christian said Striker might call it cheating, but he calls it savvy. Christian said Swagger shows up and sees ropes and canvas, but he sees a chessboard and he's always moving, adjusting, changing on the fly. Christian said he gets the vibe that some people want to see Dreamer win on Sunday, but probably only because they don't want to hear him cry through another farewell interview. Zing!

Back to the action where Smith was in control working over Dreamer on the chessboard. Smith went up top, but missed with a dive and Dreamer began his comeback. Dreamer then applied a Texas Cloverleaf center ring. Dynasty tried to run interference, but Christian yanked a chair away from Natalya. In that confusion, Kidd smashed Dreamer with a boot and that was apparently enough for Smith to make the cover for the win. Post-match: Christian surveyed the damage, which he inadvertently created. Dreamer recovered on the mat, then glared to the floor where Christian was holding his ECW Title belt.

WINNER: Smith in 9:00. Christian was great on commentary. He was 1,000 percent better than those infamous guest commentary moments in TNA when he was the babyface NWA World champion and would say absolutely nothing. Match was okay. Build-up to Christian vs. Dreamer vs. Swagger on Sunday was solid. Nice follow-up on ECW. (*1/4)

3 -- JEFF HARDY & R-TRUTH vs. CHRIS JERICHO & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Grisham gave us some info that Truth told him before the show it's a dream come true to team with Hardy since both of them are from North Carolina. Jericho told Dolph to start things off and Dolph took Jeff to the floor where he ran distraction, allowing Jericho to yank Jeff off the apron into the side of the ring. Dolph took advantage by going back to work on Jeff in the ring. Jeff escaped at 3:00 and tagged out to Truth, who showed off his trademark high-flying offense. Nice sequence, then Jeff tagged in and nailed Jericho with the Whisper in the Wind. Truth re-entered to set up Jeff for the run-off-the-back leg whip in the corner. Dolph then surprised Truth from behind with a dropkick that allowed Jericho to take control. Cut to break.

Crowd was hot back from break with Truth fighting back against Ziggler, but then he ran into a clothesline from DZ. Jericho tagged in and vehemently demanded to know, "What's up, Truth?" He told him what's up: a slap to the face. Jericho followed with an enziguiri kick and ref Armstrong was a bit slow on his cadence counting a pin, so Jericho let him know about it. Dolph and Jericho exchange tags a few more times, then Hardy took a hot tag at 11:00 and scored a nearfall on Ziggler. Hardy then hit Ziggler with the Whisper in the Wind, but Jericho broke up the pin. Truth clotheslined Jericho to the floor, then flew to the outside with a big dive to take out Jericho. Back in the ring, Hardy dropped Ziggler with the Twist of Fate. Hardy then went up top and nailed the Swanton Bomb for the pin and the win as the crowd was on the verge of exploding.

WINNERS: Hardy & Truth in 12:00. Very exciting match to conclude the show. The combo of two established main eventers with two mid-carders looking for noteworthy TV exposure made for a good dynamic. Crowd was hot no matter what combination was in the ring and the finishing sequence played out nicely to set up Hardy vs. Edge at the PPV. Well done. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 05 2009, 01:44 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 6-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32577.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1- KIYOSHI & SHEIK ABDUL BASHIR vs. DANIELS & SUICIDE

It’s worth noting (maybe) that an ad for Stacker 2- Six Hour Power is in the middle of the canvas in the ring. Daniels with a suplex on Bashir, then a legdrop off the top by Suicide. Bashir took over and choked Suicide in the corner, with an assist from Kiyoshi. Tenay plugged the appearance at Slammiversary of Detroit Tigers OF Curtis Granderson, who will be in charge of watching the title belt during the King of the Mountain match. The hot tag was made to Daniels, who was able to fight off Bashir and Kiyoshi. Then some double-teaming by the faces, with a Suicde Samoan drop front-roll and a springboard moonsault from Daniels for two. His pin was interrupted by Bashir. Suicide slingshotted himself onto Bashir on the outside, who held his leg in pain as Slick Johnson checked on him. Then, the Motor City Machine Guns and Lethal Consequences attacked Suicide. As Daniels was going to finish off Kiyoshi, Shane Douglas came out and nailed Daniels in the head with a chain. Bashir threw the ref in the ring and the heels got the pin.

WINNERS: Bashir & Kiyoshi, at 5:17. Way too much going on at the end there.

2- CONSEQUENCES CREED & CHRIS SABIN vs. BEER MONEY, INC.

Sabin got double-teamed by Beer Money with a suplex as Tenay accused Don West of watching to much “Lie to Me” given his penchant for conspiracy theories and no one telling the truth. Creed tagged in and got tagged by James Storm. They traded right hands but Sabin pulled Storm down by the hair when he went off the ropes. Sabin spit at Robert Roode as West said Sabin reminds him of himself 20 years ago. Now that’s funny. Creed used his athleticism to take down Storm and the odd-couple pairing continued on offense with quick tags. They both went for a springboard move at the same time though, and hit each other in mid-air. That allowed Roode to tag in and take out Sabin, then hit a spinebuster on Creed for two. Storm dispatched of Sabin as Creed and Roode collided in the ring. The British Invasion came out and wanted to get involved, but Team 3D fended them off. Sabin accidentally kicked Creed in the corner, then Storm hit a nice Superkick on Sabin. DWI finished it on Creed.

WINNERS: Beer Money, Inc, at 5:12. Good enough match that raised the question whether MCMG and Lethal Consequences will be able to work together at Slammiversary..

3- DAFFNEY vs. TAYLOR WILDE

Tenay said when she was Governor Palin, she transferred into her alter-ego of Daffney. Shouldn’t it be the other way around? West got another zinger in on Tenay- West: “Taylor is the girl you bring home to your mother....then leave her there while you sneak out with Daffney!” Tenay: “So where does that leave Awesome Kong?” West: “Hopefully at your house.”

Not long after the match started, Dr. Stevie and Raven came to ringside. Daffney looked like she scratched Taylor’s back quite hard, then hit a flying elbow on her in the corner. Taylor went to the top and hit a dropkick after Daffney missed an elbowdrop. Roll-through into a pin for two. Taylor went to the second rope but Dr. Stevie provided a distraction that allowed Daffney to taker her out and hit her finisher, the Lobotomy (a spinning Perfect-Plex) for the three.

WINNER: Daffney, at 2:09.

Daffney continued the beat-down at the behest of Stevie and Raven until Lauren made the save and covered Lauren in the ring to prevent further damage. Raven got on the mic and talked about fans waiting for his re-uniting with Stevie. He said he’s come to help take out Abyss for not following doctor’s orders.

4- MATT MORGAN vs. JESSE NEAL

They showed Jesse’s parents in the crowd. He wrestled in a long-sleeved tee and a pair of gym shorts. He got a roll-up on Morgan out of the corner, but Morgan landed a back suplex. Morgan hit a series of back-elbows on Neal in the corner, then bowed for the crowd. Sidewalk slam, then he threw Neal face-first into the top turnbuckle as Rhino coached him from ringside. Standing dropkick from the Blueprint. Cover got two, as Morgan picked him up by the hair. Morgan trash talked Rhino, allowing Neal to get a few punches in. He made the mistake of whipping Morgan off the ropes, and Morgan retaliated with the Carbon Footprint for the win.

WINNER: Morgan, at 2:46. Decent mid-card angle they’ve got going on here. Although I don’t get Rhino looking so pissed at ringside.....it was his first match and it was against Matt Morgan, cut the kid some slack.

5- KEVIN NASH vs. SAMOA JOE- KING OF THE MOUNTAIN QUALIFYING MATCH UNDER LETHAL LOCKDOWN RULES

Joe hit Nash with a road sign upon return from break. He peppered Nash with about a dozen rights in the corner. Nash’s back was covered with welts thanks to the kendo stick. Nash got a shot in and tried to climb the cage. Oh, he was going for a trash can lid. He cracked Joe in the head with it, and again. After a third shot, he got two on a pin. Joe got back to his feet first and gouged the eyes of Nash. Nash came back with another lid shot. He whiffed with the stick and Joe was able to hit a kick to the face, then a senton on the big man. Joe grabbed a hockey stick and wailed Nash in the back with it. Lateral press, and he picked up the victory.

WINNER: Joe, at 9:01. A decent garbage brawl. Better than I expected.

Joe got on the mic after the match and said, “It is done."
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 06 2009, 11:12 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32606.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. JOHN MORRISON

Morrison tripped up Benjamin in the corner, then appeared to attempt a split-legged moonsault, but Shelton crotched him on the top and got a dragon-screw leg-whip. Benjamin continued to work the left leg of Morrison. Morrison fired back at the 3:00 mark with a sudden enziguiri. Jumping heel kick by Morrison for two as he continued to sell the leg/knee area. He ran over Benjamin with a knee to the face that got a two-count. Springboard kick missed and Benjamin capitalized with a half-crab. Tilt-a-whirl DDT by Morrison and the move, which can look clunky, looked silky smooth. Starship Pain ended it.

WINNER: Morrison, at 4:51. Fine five minute match, but doesn’t really advance this feud at all. It’s been treading water lately, it seems.

2- CHRIS JERICHO vs. R-TRUTH

Truth got the best of Jericho off the bat, so Jericho went to ringside. Truth came over the top with a suicide dive. Truth went to the top, but Jericho hit the ropes to crotch him. Jericho then dropkicked him to the mat on the outside. Back in the ring, he started kicking Truth in the upper part of the body. Jericho taunted Truth in a rest-hold, yelling “What’s up now, huh?” and also demanding the ref “Ask him what’s up!” Lionsault missed from Y2J, but Truth’s kick missed as well. Roll-up from Truth for two. Jericho tried to turn him for the Walls of Jericho but Truth got monkey-flipped onto the second rope. He came off but dove right into a Codebreaker (not a great one either) for the pin.

WINNER: Jericho, at 3:47.

3- CM PUNK vs. UMAGA

This has to be one of the least-interesting feuds in quite some time. Punk tried to take Umaga down by the leg, but Umaga shoved him off. Punk still went to work on the leg and threw Umaga shoulder-first into the ring post, then came off the top with a cross-body (as Umaga was half-way down to the mat when Punk landed on him) for a two count. Show then went to break.

Punk was continuing work on the leg out of break, and hit an enziguiri that sent Umaga out of the ring. Punk tried to catch Umaga napping, but he came off the top and Umaga got him with a Samoan Spike, then was thrown into the barricade in a nasty move. Back in the ring, time for an arm-bar by Umaga. He also dug his fingers into Punk’s gut. Hard into the turnbuckle went Punk, then down on both knees and Umaga clotheslined him down. More stretching from the Samoan. Punk used his vaunted strikes to break out, but then was put back down with a superkick. Punk came off the top again, and again Umaga was half-way down when Umaga got to him. Foolishly, CM Punk tried a cross-body and Umaga caught him, then slammed him down with that swinging tree slam. The big man dragged Punk into the corner and gave him a few punches to the head. Umaga missed a running butt charge and Punk landed the running knee in the corner, but Umaga shoved him away. Umaga grabbed the straps, but the ref stopped him from using them. He turned around and right into a GTS (the camera switched angles at the last second as Umaga got his hands and arms up to protect himself from a clean shot) and a pinfall.

WINNER: Punk, at 12:27. I hope this doesn’t mean Punk is losing on Sunday. Match had its moments.

4- MELINA & GAIL KIM & EVE TORRES vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL & ALICIA FOX & LAYLA

The faces worked Alicia’s arm, but Fox jumped over Kim in the corner. She celebrated too long though and Kim hit a hurricanrana. Dive into the stomach by Kim, then a cross-body off the top for two. Fox tagged out to McCool. Kim was up for a hurricanrana, but McCool tossed her over her head and to the mat. Then she pounded away at Gail’s face until Maria broke it up. Layla was the victim of a drop-toe hold in the corner. Melina tagged in and cleaned house on Layla. Dobule-knee to the gut of Layla in the corner. Face-plant for a two-count. Fox distracted Melina coming off the ropes and the rest of the faces went over to the opposite corner to fight it out. McCool took the opportunity to get a free kick in on Melina, then Layla hit her unique neck-breaker and picked up the surprise win for her team.

WINNERS: McCool, Fox & Layla, at 3:16. Interesting decision there. I thought they’d tease more of a Maria feud with one of the heels.

5- THE GREAT KHALI vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

They showed what happened last month when the two met in singles competition. Khali pounded away on Ziggler in the corner. The fight went to the outside, where Khali had the advantage until he missed a chop on Ziggler and his hand collided with the ring post. But he was able to chop Ziggler back into the ring. Ziggler broke out of a choke and dropkicked Khali into the corner. He got frustrated when he couldn’t deal with Khali, then was elbowed and booted down. Khali set up and hit the Punjabi Plunge. Lights out.

WINNER: Khali, at 2:49. At least JR still thinks Ziggler will be a “big time player” on Smackdown. That’s gotta count for something.

6- REY MYSTERIO vs. EDGE

Rey was very cautious while greeting fans on his way to the ring. An elbow by Edge dropped Mysterio, then he ptu the boots to him in the corner. Edge flung Rey through the bottom rope, but Rey as usual flipped and got back to his feet. Why do people keep trying that with him? Edge tried whipping him into the steel steps, but Rey somersaulted over them and landed on his feet, kicking the steps into Edge’s legs. He then landed a seated senton on the Rated R Superstar. The show went to break with both guys still on the outside.

Back from break and back in the ring, Rey still had control of the match-up. JR said Rey’s “physical hysteria” is what has led to him staying on offense through the break. Just as I type that, Edge side-stepped a Rey charge and ran his shoulder into the ringpost. Hard Irish whip into the turnbuckle by Edge and Rey collapsed face-first into the mat. Crowd chanted “619" as Edge stalked Rey in the ring. Rey went into the buckle again but got his feet up on an Edge charge. After a headscissor take-over, Edge tried sunset flip unsuccessfully, then Rey kicked him in the face and got a two-count. Rey rolled up Edge after Edge tried an Electric Chair and Rey had him down for the three, but the ref only counted two as Edge was late flipping things over. Did not look good. After exchanging another series of roll-ups, Edge sent Rey face-first into the mat. Both men stayed down as the show went to the final break.

Edge jumped on Rey’s back with Rey hung throat-first over the middle rope and got a two-count off of it. Edge sent Rey in the air, but Rey came down with a face-buster. Both men were on the top rope and Rey knocked Edge off, then came down with a hurricanrana on Edge, who rolled back out to ringside. Rey then bounced off the ropes and dove through the ropes and onto Edge. The World Champ was thrown back into the ring. Springboard legrdop by Mysterio for two. Springboard cross-body for another near-fall. Edge got Rey on his shoulder, but Rey countered into a DDT for two. Springboard hurricanrana attempt, but Edge blocked it and locked in a Sharpshooter. Mysterio was able to get to the ropes. Rey kicked Edge into position for a 619, but Edge got out of it and was positioned again. Edge caught him and turned it into a backbreaker. Schoolboy though for Rey got another two-count. This is tiring me just watching it. Finally he set him back up and hit a 619. Edge got out of the way- Rey landed on his feet, turned around and got speared. Fin.

WINNER: Edge, at 19:09. Well, what can you say. Just a great match between two pros who know how to put on a 20-minute TV match.

Edge went under the ring and got a ladder. He brought it into the ring, but Jeff Hardy came out with a chair and wailed it against the ladder, sending it into Edge. Twist of Fate on Edge, then Jeff set up the Ladder and hit a legdrop on the champ. Jeff celebrated as they showed a replay of his legdrop. The final image was Jeff on the ladder, holding the belt over his head.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 08 2009, 01:23 pm
WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 6-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's on-going report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_32644.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. WILLIAM REGAL vs. MATT HARDY vs. MVP -- U.S. Title match

Bell sounded and all four men stood around to feel out the match. Hardy and Regal then took each other to the floor, leaving Kofi and MVP in the ring for a "good sportsmanship" exchange. Suddenly there was a car wreck involving everyone except Hardy, so he slipped into the ring and tried to pin any of the three, but they all kicked out. Hardy dominated, then Kofi surprised him with a clothesline. He then double slammed Hardy and Regal and hit the Boom Boom leg drop on both men. Nearfall only, though. Kofi then dropkicked MVP through the ropes. Regal snatched Kofi from behind for a t-bone suplex into Hardy that looked off, then MVP Chono booted Regal in the face. MVP nailed Hardy with a flurry of rights before hitting a knee drop. MVP wanted to go Ballin' on Hardy and he connected, but Regal broke up a pin and smashed MVP in the corner with a running knee. Regal grunted into an Irish whip to the ropes on Kofi, but Kofi rebounded off the ropes into the Jamaican buzzsaw kick on Regal for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kofi at 6:38. Chaotic match. Felt like they were trying to get a ton of spots in with only six-to-seven minutes to work with. Had some cool moments, but really seemed like too much in too little time. This was a WWE PPV opener, not a TNA opener, right? (*1/2)


 
2 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- Intercontinental Title match -- No Holds Barred

Bell sounded and Rey jumped Jericho right off the bat. Match moved to the floor where Rey rammed Jericho into the announce table, then picked up the table cover and smashed Jericho with it. Rey blasted Jericho into the ring steps, then hit a splash off the top rope on the floor. Rey in control as they moved back into the ring where Rey scored a two count on a roll-up, then Jericho rolled through into a pin with a hook of the tights for a two count. Jericho tried to follow with a roll-through on a sunset flip into the double-foot dropkick, but Jericho with a sweet counter into an inside cradle for a two count. Jericho popped up and smashed Rey in the head. Rey played dead, then Jericho chucked Rey stomach-first across the mat through the ropes and into the guardrail on the fly.

Match moved to the floor where Jericho suplexed Rey onto the ring padding before bringing him back into the ring for a two count. Jericho tried to remove the mask, but Rey covered his face just as Jericho teased the exposure. Jericho then missed with a corner splash, but ate the ringpost and fell to the floor. Rey measured Jericho and hit a suicide dive around the corner turnbuckle on the floor. Sweet. Back in the ring, Rey with a head scissors followed by a huracanrana for a two count. Rey set up the 619, but Jericho caught Rey in mid-air with a spinning backbreaker for a two count. Great sequence. Jericho then blocked another huracanrana and Rey avoided a Lionsault. Rey hit a reverse 619 on Jericho, then went for his trademark springboard finish off the top, but Jericho nailed an amazing codebreaker counter in mid-air. Goodness. Jericho sold needing extra time to make the cover after his finisher, allowing Rey time to kick out.

Jericho, stunned, went to the floor and grabbed a chair. He smacked it against the ring steps to give the prep code to Rey, who came to his feet and dropkicked the chair kinda into Jericho's face. Effect was more important than actual contact. Rey then picked up the chair and did an RVD running surfboard on Jericho for another nearfall. Fans on their feet as Rey set up the chair in the corner to give Jericho a drop toe hold into the chair. Rey then tried to run off the chair onto Jericho, but Jericho countered with the Walls of Jericho. Rey was close enough to the chair, though, to pick it up and smash Jericho in the face to escape. Rey then wanted the 619, but Jericho countered in mid-kick by ripping the mask off. Rey was concerned with losing the mask, so Jericho rolled him up for the pin to grab the title. Afterward, Rey covered his face and rolled to the floor. Jericho then held up the IC Title and Rey's mask, following up on his guarantee to grab both.

WINNER: Jericho at 14:43 to capture the Intercontinental Title. Excellent undercard match for the second straight WWE PPV. They used the gimmicks and floor effectively with another round of terrific counters and reversals. Follow-up on Smackdown should be interesting. (***3/4)
 
3 -- UMAGA vs. C.M. PUNK -- Samoan Strap match

They had a video game-like graphic in the top right corner of the screen showing both wrestlers needing to touch all of the turnbuckles successively. Umaga is Red light and Punk is Green light. Graphic a bit behind the action as Ross tried to explain that a new sequence would have to be started each time there's a "reset." Action started with basic tease spots before Punk hit three turnbuckles, only to have Umaga yank him back into a clothesline to prevent him from touching the fourth turnbuckles. Umaga tried to the four-spot, but Punk yanked him over the top rope to the floor. Reset those red and green lights. Punk then did a tug of war trying to reach all four turnbuckles as Umaga pulled him from the floor. Umaga blocked four, then went up top, but Punk yanked him off the top to the mat. Punk tried the four-play again, but Umaga tug-of-warred him across the ring. In the process, Punk countered a Samoan Spike attempt with the Go 2 Sleep, then he fell backward into the fourth turnbuckle to touch all four in succession for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Punk at 8:59. "Just there" match. Crowd bought into some of the "nearfalls" at the end, so that was good. Match won't be remembered, though. (*1/4)
 
4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER -- ECW Title match -- Hardcore Rules match

Bell sounded and Swagger slipped to the outside to play cat and mouse with Dreamer, who took a fist to the face from Swagger. Back in the ring, Swagger gave Dreamer a back drop and Dreamer rolled to the outside. On the outside, Dreamer grabbed some weapons. Christian also grabbed some weapons. Striker called Dreamer's trademark weapon a Singapore stick. LOL. Mathews told him it's a Singapore Cane. Christian and Dreamer then blasted Swagger from both sides with canes and sticks and trashcan lids. Dreamer then gave Christian a pumphandle slam using the Kendo stick in the crotch. Swagger recovered and blasted Dreamer into the corner, but Dreamer back dropped Swagger over the top rope to the floor. Dreamer picked up a trashcan, then did his rolling Cannonball dive off the apron onto both Swagger and Christian.

Back in the ring, Dreamer measured Swagger for the "E-C-W chest pound" basement dropkick, but Christian cut him off from the floor. Christian then slipped into the ring and stole Dreamer's ECW basement dropkick on Swagger. After Christian and Dreamer battled, Swagger recovered and smashed Christian with a Kendo stick. Swagger then press slammed Christian for a two count. Swagger went to the corner to remove the top turnbuckle, but Dreamer blasted him from the floor with a stick shot. Dreamer re-entered the ring and slammed Christian onto a trashcan lid. He missed with an elbow drop, though, as the crowd chanted for tables. No tables, though.

Swagger and Dreamer introduced more weapons into the ring, including a big red STOP sign. Dreamer then took a belly-to-belly suplex from Swagger, who introduced a wrestling hold into the match. They set up a Tower of Doom spot in the corner and Christian powerbombed Swagger, who suplexed Dreamer onto a trashcan. Swagger then put Christian into the exposed steel, but Dreamer blasted Swagger with the Kendo stick from behind. Dreamer then grappled Swagger and nailed the Dreamer DDT in center ring. Dreamer with the pin for the win to capture the ECW Title. He did the big celebration in-ring, then in the crowd. Nice moment.

WINNER: Dreamer at 9:40 to capture the ECW Title. Nice match using the gimmicks and stipulations while playing off the ECW Title quest storyline for Dreamer. Dreamer did his part leading to the PPV selling this as his last possible WWE match, so it made the finish seem that much more surprising. Well done. (**1/4)
 
5 -- Miss WrestleMania VICKIE GUERRERO & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. SANTINO(A) MARELLA -- Hog Pen match

Chavo took a bath in the mud early on, but he knocked down Santina. Chavo thought Santina was done, so Vickie came in to make the pin. Santina popped up to life, though. Chavo tried to slop Santina with a bucket full of pig feed, but Santina ducked and Vickie was slopped by Chavo. Santina then slopped Chavo and punched the bucket into Chavo's face. Santina KO'ed Chavo, then made the cover on Vickie for the pin and the win. Afterward, Vickie and Chavo yelled at each other with Vickie taking out her frustration on Chavo. Santina celebrated as the crown was re-awarded to him/her/it.

WINNER: Santino(a) at 3:30 to capture the Miss WrestleMania crown. Please, oh please, let this be over with so Santino can return to the babyface program where he discovers his ability to wrestle. "Buffer" segment to allow the announcers to get all of their dumb jokes out of the way. (n/a)
 
Continued on next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 08 2009, 01:30 pm
WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 6-7-09

Continued from previous post...

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. BATISTA -- WWE Title match -- Steel cage match

Bell sounded and Orton quickly jumped to the cage wall and tried to climb over. Batista yanked him down, though. Nice tease early on, playing off rumors of Batista being injured and this possibly being a short match. Batista then went to work on Orton with shoulder thrusts in the corner. Orton then tried to slither out the cage door, but Batista pulled him back inside the cage by his ankles. Orton stomped down on Batista in the corner before contemplating his next move. Batista took advantage of Orton's pause by hitting a spinebuster. Batista wanted the B-Bomb, but Orton back dropped Batista into a cage wall. Orton then teased leaving the cage, but he measured Batista for The Punt. Batista moved, though, and Orton tried to Spiderman the wall. Batista countered by grappling Orton for the Batistabomb, but Orton slipped out. Tease of the RKO, then Batista re-grappled Orton and delivered the Batistabomb. Batista then made the cover and scored the pin to capture the WWE Title. Whoa. Batista took the belt and headed up the stage while Orton sold frustration. Batista struggled to lift his right arm a little bit celebrating with the title belt.

WINNER: Batista at 7:10 to capture the WWE Title. Seems like forever since Batista won World Title gold. You also wouldn't think they would put the WWE Title on an injured wrestler, so we'll have to see where this is going, especially when Orton gets his re-match. Nice match, albeit short for Raw's title match. Quick pace made for a good story. (**)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW -- Submissions match

Show with an early clothesline, then he teased the Camel Clutch, but Cena snuck underneath Show and went for the STFU. Couldn't apply it, though, and the two men went back to their corners to re-think strategy. Show quickly regained control and landed a running splash in the corner. Cena avoided another splash, then Cena seemed to be setting up his FKS combo with a running bulldog, but Show blocked the bulldog attempt by shoving Cena clear across the ring to the outside. Cena tried to come back with a shoulder tackle, but Show shooed him away like a fly to end that noise. Show then applied the Masterlock and Cena slowly broke free, but Show grounded him with a headbutt. Cena blocked another corner charge and hopped on Show's back for a sleeperhold. Show fought, but he eventually fell to one knee. Show sold sleep, but then slammed Cena to escape. Show woke up very quickly and nailed an overhead toss facebuster out of the powerbomb position.

Show then stalked Cena to begin his formula match of the one move, walk around, one move, walk around. Show palmed Cena's head ala Khali before taking Cena to the ropes to squeeze the life out of Cena. Show did the step-on-the-chest-and-walk-off spot before going to the second rope for a Vader Bomb. Cena moved, though, which popped the crowd. Cena then wanted the Hogan-to-Andre scoop slam, but Show fell on top of Cena and locked in a submission hold ... I think. Looked like he was hugging him. Cena broke out, then Show wanted a chokeslam, but Cena blocked, so Show dumped Cena over the top rope to the floor. And we continue slowly but surely. At 12:00, Show followed to the outside and picked up Cena to ram him ribs-first into the ringpost. More work on the stomach and ribs. Crowd quiet. Lawler said a hush has come over the crowd. Back in the ring, Show went to the resthold of all restholds...the abdominal stretch. Show clutched Cena's ribs to make it look good.

Cena broke free, then nailed a DDT. Cena then went for the STFU, but Show kicked him out of the ring. Cena then tried a top rope move, but Show caught him in mid-air for a bear hug. Cena broke free, then hit a flip-over facebuster. He then set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle after brushing the dirt off his shoulder. Show popped up and wanted a chokeslam, but Cena countered with the FU in center ring. Crowd like "what next?" Cena then tried the STFU again, but Show elbowed him in the face. Looks like he could have done the Rings of Saturn after the FU. Show then came to his feet and landed the big ol' KO punch. Cena rolled to the floor selling a headache as he was sprawled out on the ground. On the floor, Show tried to ram Cena into the ringpost, but Cena blocked and rammed Show into the ringpost. Cena then ran up top and hit the guillotine leg drop as Show was underneath the ropes. Suddenly, Cena slapped on a unique STF with Show's leg in between the ropes so he could put his entire body around Show's neck with the other part of the STF hold. Camera zoomed in tight as Show tried to fight the hold. Looked like the "Gas man" from Dumb & Dumber just as he was sweating and calling for his meds with Harry & Lloyd in the diner. Show, on the verge of passing out, finally gave up on trying to fight the hold and he tapped out. "John Cena with another miracle!" Cole declared.

WINNER: Cena at 19:00 via submission. Up and down match with a dramatic conclusion that the crowd really bought into. Had some moments where I'm thinking, "Gosh, this is so boring, grrrr" followed by some intriguing sequences. Tough match to evaluate. Either you were bored out of your mind or intrigued waiting to see how Cena would keep escaping and how he would eventually win the match so you knew SuperCena was winning. (**1/2)

Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 08 2009, 01:32 pm
WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 6-7-09

Continued from previous post...

8 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. JEFF HARDY -- World Title match -- Ladder match

Announcers talked up the history of ladder matches as Ross said no one is more proficient in the ladder match than Edge and Hardy. Grisham then referenced Shawn Michaels, thankfully, and the WM X ladder match with HBK and Razor Ramon (Scott Hall). Match moved to the floor where Edge dropkicked a ladder into Jeff. Back in the ring, Jeff back-dropped Edge over the top rope with Edge landing arm-first across a ladder. Jeff quickly set up a ladder and went climbing for the title, but Edge cut him off from behind. Jeff then got tangled up in the ladder after Edge shoved him into it. Edge then wanted the spear into a ladder, but Jeff moved and Edge ate the ladder rungs. Jeff then did hit lift-up corner dropkick sending the ladder into Edge's face. Edge came right back with a Sharpshooter inside the ladder, causing Jeff to scream out in pain. Edge then climbed the ladder, but Jeff dropkicked the ladder and Edge took a flat-back bump right on the mat with his legs cut out from under him. Hardy then set up a ladder upside down and he gut-bustered Edge across the deals that hold up a ladder. Crowd reacted for that first-time-ever-I-think spot.

At 10:00, Jeff pulled out a big ladder and dropped Edge in center-ring with the Twist of Fate. Hardy then measured the opportunity and scaled the big ladder with his eyes on the World Title prize hanging above the ring. Edge got up, though, and watched as Jeff tried to swing onto the title belt. Jeff had his hands on the belt, but he couldn't yank it down, so Edge yanked him down without the title belt. Jeff sold a leg injury, then Edge went back on the offensive. Jeff quickly recovered, though, and walked up the giant ladder for a Whisper in the Wind on Edge. Jeff rolled over to the ring apron and picked up his time cue from the ref ringside before grabbing another ladder. He rolled it into the ring and set it up next to the giant ladder. Hardy then clotheslined himself and Edge over the top rope just because. On the floor, Edge set up a ladder across the ring apron and guardrail. Edge wanted a suplex across the horizontally-positioned ladder, but Jeff whipped him into the guardrail. Edge then whipped Jeff into the ring steps.

At 15:00, both men exchanged control once again on the floor. Ross talked about both men willing to shorten their lives careers for the World Title gold. Jeff then put Edge on the horizontally-placed ladder and set up another ladder nearby. Hardy teased a dive, but Edge got up and they battled up on the ladder Hardy was on. Gradually, they tipped the ladder over together and both men crashed right through the h-p-ladder. Hardy's knee took the direct impact and his shoulder took the secondary impact. Right shoulder took the impact on the fall from the ladder to the ground. Yeoch. Several replays later, both men were back in the ring battling. Hardy started climbing and he had one hand on the belt, but Edge was on the giant ladder. Hardy saw him and blocked a mid-air spear with a mid-air Twist of Fate down to the mat. Not perfect, but looked pretty good nevertheless.

Just before 20:00, Hardy and Edge teased a race to the top. Edge knocked Hardy off the ladder, causing screaming from the crowd, then Hardy pulled Edge's legs through the ladder while standing underneath the ladder. Edge was trapped with his legs dangling through the rungs of the ladder. Hardy then scaled the ladder and retrieved the World Title belt to a roar from the crowd. Edge paused his leg-dangling in disbelief, then Hardy stared down at him with the title belt in hand.

WINNER: Hardy at 20:10 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Epic ladder match. They really made great use of the stipulation and props at their disposal. Both men took some risks that will be looked at as foolish ten years from now, but in the moment of trying to live up to the main event billing for the match, they pulled off a great story. Whether it was worth the risk of debilitation down the road is a debate for another article. (****1/2)

Post-match: Jim Ross entered the ring to interview Edge or Hardy, but C.M. Punk's music suddenly hit. Well, well, well. Punk came down to the ring and cashed in the MITB briefcase. Hardy was stumbling around and not in position to wrestle. Ref told him to give up the title belt. Bell sounded.

9 -- World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. C.M. PUNK -- World Title match

Is this match official without it being contested without a gimmick? Bell sounded and Punk nailed the G2S, but Hardy kicked out. Oh snap. Punk was shocked. Hardy then tried to pin Punk with an inside cradle, but Punk kicked out. Punk then kicked Hardy in the head and went for the G2S once again. Punk made the cover and scored a pin for the win. Punk is World champion once again. He flashed a "two" to the hard camera and celebrated with the title. Crowd booed this title change a little. Ross said Hardy's body will never be the same again on the same night he became World champion. Hardy, who was WrestleMania Nine'ed by Punk playing Hogan, was out cold as they replayed the finish. Really pushing it close to the full three-hour mark. Final shot of Punk celebrating with the title belt to conclude a chaotic main event situation. Punk danced around the ring with the title belt to close the PPV four minutes before the top of the hour.

WINNER: Punk at 1:00 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Well, that sure shakes things up on the Smackdown brand. Chaotic, furious finish to the PPV. Who does Punk feud with now? Do Jericho and Edge get title re-matches? Perhaps a three-way at The Bash. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 09 2009, 02:38 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32681.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Legacy beat crap out of Batista and 'break his arm' (which explains his real-life injury)

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- non-title match

Regal quickly on the offensive and he called out to the crowd that Kofi's pathetic just like the audience. Lawler sold concern over Batista, saying he couldn't get over it right now. He then said some of the folks in the locker room think Kofi had a fluke win over MVP last week. Kofi blasted Regal with a leaping kick to the head, then he hit the Boom-Boom leg drop for a one count. Regal then tried to come back with the exposed knee smash, but Kofi moved. He wanted the Buzzsaw kick, but Regal moved. Kofi then came right back with a second attempt and he connected. Kofi with the pin for the win. Cole called him the future of Raw.

WINNER: Kofi at 2:05. Predictably (and unfortunately) short TV match. Really doesn't help establish any sense of significance to the Inter...er...United States Title if it's given very light TV time in what's presented as a filler second quarter-hour segment. (3/4*)

2 -- Divas champion MARYSE vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match

Basic set-up with Maryse in control early, then Kelly made a comeback including a close nearfall following a sunset flip. Kelly went high-risk, but Maryse blocked and nailed her hair-flippin' DDT for the pin and the win. After Maryse won, Mickie stood up from the announce table and stared down Maryse, who tried to slap around Kelly after winning. Mickie made the save, then Maryse blew Mickie some faux kisses to re-continue their storyline leading to a potential title match down the road again.

WINNER: Maryse at 3:05. About what you would expect for this three-minute title match. (1/2*)

3 -- GOLDUST & FESTUS & SANTINO MARELLA (w/Hornswoggle) vs. JAMIE NOBLE & BRIAN KENDRICK & CHAVO GUERRERO

Kendrick was the poor victim in the ring when Festus snapped on him when the bell rang. The six-feet-and-under basketball team took a beating from Festus, but they got hold of Goldust and isolated him. Santino then made a tag and discovered his super powers to wrestle. Santino talked trash to Noble, who took an STO before the heel shorties broke up the pin. Festus gave chase on the floor and blasted Chavo. Kendrick then rolled Hornswoggle into the ring as the whole thing fell apart. Horny then backed up into Noble, who threatened him only to have Horny step on his feet. In the chaos, Santino rolled up Noble from behind for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Oddities at 3:50. Didn't do anything for the heels presented on an equal level as the midget and freaks. Just a match to continue building up the Oddities v.2. This is the annual post-Draft time period when WWE forgets about building up credible mid-card heels and just throws them out on TV to where they're glad just to have work. (*)

4 -- MVP vs. MATT HARDY

Lawler said Matt told him that he re-injured his hand at the PPV. Cole apparently shot him a look that Lawler's too gullible. Match started with Hardy in control after he yanked MVP off the middle rope to the mat. Hardy then landed a running splash to the back as MVP was draped over the middle rope. MVP fought back and landed a jawbreaker across his knee. He followed with the Ballin' elbow drop for a two count. MVP missed with a Chono boot in the corner, then Matt mounted him for ten cast punches. MVP blocked, though, and went to work on the injured right hand. MVP followed with the Playmaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: MVP at 3:51. Crowd quiet for this one, but don't blame the wrestlers. Blame WWE for zero pre-match hype, giving the live audience an unspoken cue to take a breather and just watch the match without reacting or emotionally investing. As a result, match didn't hold much importance on the show, which is unfortunate. (*)

Next week: 3 hours, 3 brands, 3 championship matches, 3 hours. 3-For-All. Cole and Lawler said the WWE Title match will be defended next week, but they don't know who will be champion. Announcers recapped the Extreme Rules PPV last night, focusing on the Edge vs. Hardy ladder match. Showed Hardy holding up the World Title belt, but then there was C.M. Punk cashing in his MITB case. Still photo showed a menacing, heel look on Punk's face as he nailed the G2S on Hardy.

5 -- Unified tag team champions PRIMO & CARLITO COLON vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES -- non-title match

Match was joined in progress with Cody working on Primo. Primo then made a tag to Carlito, who came off the top rope with a springboard fist smash on Cody. Carlito hit a kneelift into a clothesline, then missed with a moonsault, but hit a standing dropkick for a two count. Action broke down a bit, then Cody nailed Carlito with a right hand smash for a two count. Legacy isolated Carlito as the crowd came to life rallying behind Carlito. Didn't help, as Legacy went back to work on Carlito. Primo finally took a hot tag at 6:30 and worked over DiBiase. Primo with a big flurry of offense before nailing a cross-body block on DiBiase for a two count. Action broke down, then Cody yanked Primo across the top rope behind the ref's back. DiBiase then hit Dream Street on Primo for the pin and the win. They'll get a future tag title shot.

WINNERS: DiBiase & Rhodes at 7:25. Okay tag match. Again, no live pre-hype meant the crowd wasn't going to buy into the action because it wasn't presented as an important match-up. Primo added a nice dose of athleticism, but match wasn't memorable. (*1/2)

6 -- WWE champion BATISTA vs. RANDY ORTON (w/Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase) -- WWE Title match

Ref started his ten count, but they cut to a shot of the ambulance returning to the building. Ref waved off his count, wanting to see if Batista had returned. Apparently match was over. Kinda. Who knows. WINNER: No Announcement at 0:20 milked seconds. (n/a)

End of show: Triple H pops out of ambulance, runs to ring and beats crap out of Orton, more or less...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 10 2009, 04:51 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 6-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32714.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. TONY ATLAS (w/Mark Henry)

Bourne was distracted by Henry's presence ringside early on, allowing Atlas to take control. Bourne then came back with a dropkick and a standing moonsault for a two count. Henry was just pacing around ringside not too impressed with his teacher/nutrition specialist. Bourne hit a running single arm DDT, then he went to the corner. Bourne up top to nail the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win. Henry remained unimpressed, but he did something about it by clobbering Bourne from behind. Henry then nailed the World's Strongest Slam and started laughing at Bourne's plight. Bourne then pulled himself up selling internal injuries.

WINNER: Bourne in 4:00. This program is not helping or enhancing Bourne's character one bit. Abandon program. Abandon program. (1/2*)

2 -- VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. LUKE HAWX & CHRIS LEWIE

Kozlov beat the crap out of the red-trunks dude, then gave yellow trunks a front-slam, the Iron Curtain, for the pin and the win. Kozlov then smiled to no one in particular and celebrated in two out of four corners. What...the...heck?

WINNER: Kozlov in 2:00. Why is Kozlov smiling? Did he finally get the best of the punching bag from his training videos? (Send your best serious, inane, not-serious, or ludicrous answers to the question, "Why is Kozlov smiling?" to pwtorch@gmail.com)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER & CHRISTIAN vs. HART DYNASTY (DAVID HART SMITH & TYSON KIDD w/Natalya)

Swagger told Christian he was going to start things off, then Christian entered the ring and worked on Kidd. Swagger then blind-tagged himself into the match to ground Kidd. Christian wanted a tag, so Swagger slapped him off the ring apron. Ref called it an official tag. Christian said, "fine," and landed a dropkick on Kidd. Swagger then pushed Christian across the ring and Christian fell into a kick from Kidd. Dynasty began working over Christian as Swagger sarcastically pointed to Christian as if to tell the audience he isn't all that great right now. Great heel move after Swagger put Christian in a position to fail.

Back from break, Smith put Christian in the classic British Bulldog delayed vertical suplex to get the blood rushing to the head before delivering the move for a two count. Kidd then tagged in and set-up a moonsault that woke up the crowd, but Christian moved and Kidd ate mat. Swagger extended his hand for a tag, then Christian pulled his hand away and slapped Swagger across the face. Christian fired up on Smith and delivered a forearm smash before going into a rolling pin exchange. Christian then hit the pendulum kick out of the corner before nailing a Tornado DDT for a two count.

Christian went up top, took a look at Swagger, then missed with a top rope diving headbutt. Kidd tagged back in and missed with a double foot stomp before Christian grappled him. Kidd blocked the Killswitch, but Christian followed with a sunset flip for a two count. Natalya tried to get involved, which caused chaos. Swagger then smashed Christian throat-first across the top rope allowing Smith and Kidd to hit the Hart Attack combo on Christian for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty in 12:00. Okay tag match before a great exchange between Christian and Kidd at the end. Swagger was great doing just about nothing, but carrying himself as the star of the match. We don't know anything about Smith, so he comes across like just another big guy who does big-man moves. They really need to give him a chance to let the personality shine. Kidd was fine, but it's as if Smith's non-descript character zaps the personality out of him as well. (**)

Post-match: Swagger stomped on Christian, then Smith and Kidd stomped Christian. Suddenly, Tommy Dreamer stormed the ring with a Kendo Stick in hand to clear the ring of Swagger and HD. Christian was alone in the ring as the announcers speculated why Dreamer would help Christian. Dreamer pointed his "stick" towards Christian, then stood his ground in the ring. With the heels out of the picture, Dreamer stared down Christian, who recovered in the corner. Dreamer vs. Christian this Monday on Raw. I can't recall another time on WWE's version of ECW where Dreamer has come across more like a star than right now. Good build-up of Dreamer's character continues.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 12 2009, 01:45 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 6-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwel's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32766.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES vs. BRIE & NIKKI BELLA

Apparently there was a storyline development we missed reuniting the Bella Twins after their family squabble was at the heart of the Colons vs. Miz & Morrison program culminating at WrestleMania 25. Either that or they patched things up shopping. Beth dominated early on, then Nikki (I think) made a comeback. Rosa ran interference when Nikki had a pin, which allowed Beth to come back with the double-underhook front-facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beth & Rosa in 4:00. Fine tag match. WWE has some rebuilding to do with Beth's character after they streeeeetched out the Beth-Santino break-up for seemingly five months too long.

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. ZACK RYDER

Ryder focused on Boune's injured ribs early on. Bourne came back with a top rope dropkick to begin a brief comeback that was cut off by Ryder shoving Bourne into the corner. Bourne tried to come back again, this time with the Shooting Star Press, but Ryder cut him off. Striker lamented on commentary that he missed Bourne's finisher. Cut to break with Ryder in control.

Back from break, Ryder continued to ground Bourne while Striker continued to understand Ryder. What's with the hair and the half-trunks/pants and the woo woo woo? Ryder very impressive working the submission holds on Bourne as the crowd tried to rally behind Bourne, who blocked a dropkick and nailed a leaping two-foot strike on Ryder. Bourne then snapped off a swinging head scissors and charged Ryder for a running clothesline and a two count. Match moved to the top where Bourne and Ryder battled before Bourne knocked Ryder off the top. Bourne then steadied himself and nailed the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 11:00. Very nice undercard match featuring two under-sized wrestlers. They kept the highspots to a minimum to really get over the SPP, while Ryder showed the beginnings of being a credible heel with his mat work and solid facial expressions. Ryder, unfortunately, probably won't advance beyond a mid-card role in the WWE machine, but he can still be a nice antagonist to some up-and-coming babyface talent coming up from FCW. (**)

3 -- Intercontinental champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

Jericho paint-brushed Morrison early in the match to taunt him before stomping Morrison down into the corner with successive boot smashes. Morrison came back with a nice arm drag into an armbar to wear down Jericho. [Q4] Morrison clotheslined Jericho over the top rope to the floor, then he landed a slingshot plancha onto Jericho. Back in the ring, Jericho took an inch of space and cut off Morrison's momentum. Cut to break with Jericho in control.

Back from break, Morrison tried to rally up against Jericho's offensive advantage with a Russian legsweep. That resulted in a two count, only, then Jericho snapped off an enziguiri kick to quickly regain the advantage. Jericho then missed with a double axehandle smash and Morrison began his full comeback leading to a multiple-revolutions DDT after taking the tour around Jericho's shoulders for a two count. After a pause, Jericho tried a Lionsault, but Morrison ducked and came right back with the Flying Chuck springboard kick. Jericho kicked out to a major crowd reaction, though.

Jericho then missed with a corner charge and Morrison tried the Starship Pain corkscrew splash, but Jericho moved and slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Morrison rolled out into a pin, but Jericho countered with a roll-up and a hook of the tights for the pin and the win with the crowd hot in anticipation of the finish. Grisham pointed out the hook of the tights while Ross covered for Morrison that he proved he's capable of being the IC champion despite taking the loss. After the announcers recapped the highspots of the match, Morrison and Jericho closed the show with a stare down from a distance. Another great Jericho feud in the making.

WINNER: Jericho in 13:00. Jericho is depending on a flurry of nearfalls and counters in his spotlight matches as of late to build crowd anticipation, and those sequences never get old. Whether he's working with Rey Mysterio or John Morrison, the IC champ is putting together some great wrestling right now. Morrison is slowly finding his niche as a babyface, while Jericho has become the top wrestler in the company. Very good TV main event. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2009, 12:30 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 6-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32769.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) ALEX SHELLEY (w/CHRIS SABIN) & JAY LETHAL (w/CONSEQUENCES CREED) vs. TEAM 3D.

Devon and Shelley lock up to start. West points out that Team 3D are hypocritical for criticizing The British Invasion for doing exactly what Team 3D have done in the past. How did turning heel somehow make Don West moderately insightful? Shelley takes down Devon with a Spinning Leg Lariat, but Devon comes back with a Snap Power Slam for two. He tags in Ray, who holds Shelley up for Devon to nail a Guillotine Leg Drop. Ray works a wrist lock for a few seconds, but Shelley uses the ropes to flip out and make the tag to Lethal. Ray floors him with an arm wrench, then continues to work the left arm with some sort of arm bar. Lethal springboards out, then comes off the top rope with a Double Sledge. An attempted Handspring Elbow, however, is reversed straight into a Release Flip German Suplex. Lethal makes the tag. He and Shelley dropkick Team 3D out of the ring. When they go for dual Suicide Dives they end up hitting each others' partners. Chris Sabin gets up on the apron, which allows Shelley to take over in the ring with a Low Blow. He and Lethal trade tags, and take turns whacking Ray. Ray comes back with a loud open-hand chop from his knees, but he's still in the wrong part of town. He is eventually able to make the tag, and Devon comes in firing. He floors them both with clotheslines, Back Body Drops Shelley, gets Lethal with a Neck Breaker, then hits a Side Slam on Shelley for two. Shelley tries to shoot Devon into the ropes, but Devon comes back with a Flying Clothesline. Lethal breaks up the cover at two, so Ray tosses him from the ring. Sabin and Creed try to interfere, so Ray just Back Body Drops them right back out. They hit Wazzup on Shelley, but when they're about to get the tables Rob Terry runs down to ringside. While Ray and the ref focus on him, Doug Williams sneaks into the ring and whacks Devon in the head. The ref turns around just in time to count the three.

WINNER: Shelley & Creed in nine minutes. That was standard Team 3D fare. I like the lack of symmetry between Team 3D's save of Beer Money last week and Beer Money's absence tonight. *

(2) SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T vs. SAMOA JOE
Nation of Violence First Blood Match

Steiner tries to cut Joe off in the ramp. Joe comes back firing, but Steiner whips him into the barricade. Steiner grabs the timekeeper's bell and plants it on Joe's head. Steiner then uses the hammer to ring the bell on Joe's head. Wouldn't it be more efficient to just use the hammer directly? He whacks Joe's head against the apron, then rolls him into the ring. He tries to charge Joe in the corner, but gets caught by a Yurinagi. Joe whips him around, then lands his flipping dropkick. When Joe tries to follow up with a clothesline, Steiner catches him in a Flatliner. He exposes a turnbuckle, but Joe keeps his head from making contact, then slams Steiner into it. He tries to open Steiner up with some punches, but Steiner slams him back into the turnbuckle. He goes to the outside to get his lead pipe, but Joe cuts him off on his way back with a Suicide Dive. Joe grabs a trash can, knocks Steiner, places it on his head, and works over the can with the pipe. When they get the can off, Steiner's bleeding profusely. Per the stipulation of this match, Joe now has to take on Booker T, who appears in the entranceway with Sharmell.

Creed takes Booker down to the ring and slams his head into the ring post. What has he been doing during the break? They trade Knife-Edges Chops, with Joe retaining control. Booker comes back with a kick to the gut, and knocks Joe's head into the barricade and ring post. Joe blocks the next try at the barricade and comes back with one of his own. Joe gives Booker one more shot to the ring post, but Booker takes over with a kick and knocks Joe headfirst into the steps. He tries to open up Joe with some knees to the head, but Joe hoists him up and crotches him on the guardrail. Joe takes the opportunity to grab a pipe, which he slams into Booker's stomach. Booker's spitting up blood, and it's over. Wow did Steiner draw the short straw on the blade-job meter.

WINNER: Samoa Joe in 12 minutes. It's sort of random to have a match on free TV that requires two people to bleed, and it got a bit repetitive at points. Still, it was an okay brawl, and the crowd seemed to get a little behind Joe by the end. *1/4

(3) SHANE DOUGLAS vs. AJ STYLES
Shane Douglas looked old when I started watching TNA 6+ years ago. Unlike Raven, he is not looking that much better now. Douglas goes for a kick. AJ catches it, so Douglas starts covering up. AJ does a bit of mocking, then works a wrist lock for a few seconds. Douglas responds with a headlock, which is not how I'd try to impress the fans in my first match back. AJ gets away and floors him with his high dropkick. Douglas rolls out of the ring, and AJ follows him with a Slinsghot Splash. He sells an ankle injury—I don't know if it's legit. Douglas yanks him into the guard rail, but AJ yanks him back. He rolls Douglas back into the ring. He looks for the Flying Forearm, but Douglas knocks the rope out from under him. Douglas dropkicks him from the apron to the floor. He brings AJ back in, and stomps on him a bit in the corner. He hits AJ's back. AJ tries to fight back off the mat, but Douglas knocks him back down. They do it again, but this time AJ keeps throwing haymakers. He suddenly ducks a shot from Douglas and nails the Pele. Douglas is right by the ropes, and gets a foot up at two. He Back Body Drops AJ out to the apron, and when AJ tries to come back in with a Sunset Flip he cuts him off with a punch. He tries to hit a Belly-to-Belly Suplex, but AJ reverses it into a Rolling Arm Bar for the quick tap.

WINNER: AJ Styles in 4 minutes. I'm expecting at least one person in the comments to complain that I don't appreciate how awesome Douglas used to be. That's probably fair. Here? Not so much. DUD
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2009, 12:31 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 6-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32769.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(4) TARA (w/ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY) vs. MADISON RAYNE

Tara has decent music. She and Rayne trade some standing submissions, but Tara cartwheels out and grounds Rayne. She keeps working a wrist lock, so Rayne goes to the ropes where her peeps can pull her out. Tara knocks back Sky and Love, rolls Rayne back in, and hits a cool Slingshot Leg Drop for two. Is that new? Tara gets distracted by Love for a moment, which lets Rayne take control with a knee to the gut. She hits a few more knees to Tara's head, then hits a Neck Breaker for two. She hits some mounted punches, continually going for covers. Rayne goes for a dropkick off the top rope, but Tara rolls out of the way. She catches Rayne with a right hand as she gets up. She hits a few more, than gets a Snap Suplex and rolls into the cover for two. She follows up with a Body Slam and a Standing Moonsault (no shimmy-shake) for two more. Annoyed that the Moonsault only got two, Tara hits the Widow's Peak for the kill.

WINNER: Tara in five minutes. Tara looked very good here, which I assume was the point. *

(5) KURT ANGLE vs. STING
King of The Mountain Qualifier

They say this match is for the "fourth and final spot", which would be traditionally correct, but they claimed there would be seven people this year. Did they really announce that before knowing who they would be, or did someone get hurt? Angle and Sting shake hands to start. Kurt backs Sting into a corner, where he grants the clean break. They lock up again, and again need to break cleanly. Angle gets a quick Headlock Takedown; Sting reverses with a Head Scissors, but Angle quickly gets to his feet. They lock up again; Sting shoots Angle off into the ropes, but he comes back with a shoulder block that sends Sting to the canvas. Angle shoots Sting off, and this time it's Sting who comes back with a shoulder block. Not content, he hits another one just for kicks. Angle rolls out of the ring for a breather.

Kurt Angle and Sting are facing off in the middle of the ring. Kurt gets control with a kick and a Vertical Suplex for two. Sting reverses an attempted Irish Whip and hits a back elbow. He clotheslines Angle out of the ring. He follows Kurt to the outside, and punches him around ringside. Angle comes back into the ring. While he's standing prone in the corner Sting looks for a Stinger Splash, but Angle gets out of the way and hits an Olympic Slam for two. A Back Breaker gets two. Angle works a chin lock for a few seconds. Sting powers out, but walks right into a Belly-to-Belly Release Supelx for two. Angle is now making his covers in pairs. Sting gets to his feet.

That last segment was three minutes. I wonder if someone at TNA thinks that if they take random commercial breaks everyone will think the matches are longer than they are. Sting is elbowing Angle in the corner. Kurt gets a leg up to create some distance, and they both go for clotheslines at the same time. They both get up swinging, with Sting eventually getting the upper hand with a series of clotheslines. He connects with a pair of Stinger Splashes in the corner, and hits a Suplex for two. As he picks Kurt up, Kurt goes behind and smoothly transitions into his trio of German Suplexes. Angle drops the straps. He looks for an Olympic Slam; Sting slides out and goes for a Scorpion Death Lock, but Angle reverses the attempt into an Angle Lock. Sting kicks him off and into the ring post. He catches Angle on the rebound and hits a huge Power Bomb for two. Sting tries to finish him off with the Scorpion Death Drop, but Angle backs him into the corner. Sting dodges an attempted charge, and Angle hits the post. Matt Morgan runs down to the ring, and while the ref goes to deal with him Sting hits the Scorpion Death Drop. There's no ref to make the count, so Sting goes over to chat with Morgan. Kurt cuts him off and whips him into the ropes. Sting ducks an attempted clothesline (sort of—it actually looked like the clothesline clipped the top of Sting's head) but gets whacked in the back by Matt Morgan. Sting falls back into the Olympic Slam for the kill.

WINNER: Kurt Angle in 18 minutes. By all rights, this should have been great. It was not. The breaks were distracting, and I'm getting the feeling Sting's just been phoning things in for the last few months. *
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2009, 12:48 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32803.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. THE GREAT KHALI

JR told everyone to buy stock in Dolph Ziggler. I’d have to run that by my financial advisor, Gorlock, first. I suppose this is a re-match from last week. Ziggler went to the outside as soon as the bell rang, but then got chopped down and again went to the outside. Khali brought him in the hard way, then chopped him down. And again. Khali grabbed Ziggler in a chokeslam, but Ziggler brought his arm down over the top rope. He went to work on the left leg of Khali, getting the big man down. Front chancery applied by Ziggler. Khali though picked him up and sent Ziggler down to the mat. Big boot caught Dolph coming off the top rope, but he managed to avoid a Khali Chop. Khali decided to go after him, but Ziggler grabbed Ranjin Singh. He tugged Singh around the ring then at eight, shoved him into Khali, and made it in the ring for the count-out win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 2:58. Well, it’s a win, but it doesn’t look like this feud is over.

2- MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA vs. MELINA & EVE TORRES

As usual, Alicia Fox was at ringside offering her support for McCool. Eve and Layla did battle to open things up. They traded offense until Layla face-planted Eve in the corner. McCool then came in and aggressively went after Eve. Some sort of side-sweep by McCool led into a chin-lock. Jaw-breaker freed Eve from the move. She tagged Melina in and Melina went to work with clotheslines and a back-kick for only one. Layla broke up a pin and Eve took her out while Layla was celebrating. Melina was going to go for her finisher, but McCool’s protege (apparently) Alicia Fox distracted Melina, allowing McCool to turn things around and land the Faith Breaker for the win.

WINNERS: McCool & Layla, at 2:51. Felt like an 8-10 minute tag match condensed into under three minutes (like a hot tag a minute or two in)

3- SHELTON BENJAMIN & CHARLIE HAAS vs. JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH

Benjamin attacked at the start, but Morrison quickly recovered. Truth came in and got his feet up on a splash attempt, then he kicked Haas away as Charlie tried to get involved. That gave Benjamin time to leap to the top rope and suplex Truth off of it. Both men were down as the show went to break.

Back with, surprise, Truth in a rest hold with Shelton in control. Samoan drop by Benjamin got him a two-count. JR, just like on his blog, reminded fans that Shelton and Haas are not permanently reunited and as far as he’s heard, have no desire to do so. Haas back in with a hard Irish whip on Truth in the neutral corner. Haas kicked Truth in the chest, then in the face, then hit a belly-to-belly suplex. Haas grabbed onto Truth’s leg to try to prevent him from making a tag, but was ultimately unsuccessful. Morrison tagged in and hit a flying heel kick, then dropkicked Shelton off the apron. Flying Chuck Kick registered a two-count. Truth came in to thwart Benjamin, and nailed him with a flying headscissor. Haas took Truth out and Morrison finally got the Moonlight Drive, then the Starship Pain. Pin.

WINNERS: Truth & Morrison, at 9:24. I’m BEGGING WWE to change up the tag formula, especially breaking away from “the heel gets involved and taken out by the face, then the legal heel takes him out and the legal face hits his finisher.” It wasn’t long ago they did this finish twice in the same show.

4- CHRIS JERICHO vs. C.M. PUNK

Jericho brought Rey’s mask out to the ring with him. Jericho worked the mic before the match, saying he stands up for what he believes in. He said he thought he was an honest man, whereas 99.9% of the fans are liars and people who have failed at accomplishing everything they’ve ever tried to do. He said by exposing Rey’s true identity, he has lifted the air of deceit of Rey’s shoulders and he can walk the streets free now. Jericho said he set Rey free by doing this. But instead of thanking him, Rey has disappeared. Y2J said he led Rey to his salvation, and that he’s Rey’s savior. He said he exposed Rey as a fraud and he’ll do the same to Punk tonight. He guaranteed a win against Punk. Should be interesting to listen to C.M.’s crowd reactions during this one.

JR defended Punk’s decision on Sunday, saying Punk was being smart by cashing it in at the time he did. Jericho applied a wristlock on Punk and demanded the ref “ask him!” Punk went into a side head-lock as things started out slowly. Kicks from Punk (greeted with a few boos), then he sent Jericho down with a back elbow. Jericho tried to apply the Walls, but Punk shrugged him off. Up in the GTS (cheers), but Jericho got down and went to the outside.

Back from break, Punk flew at Jericho with a cross-body and got a near-fall. Jericho hung Punk stomach-first over the top rope. Then he delivered his trademark springboard dropkick. Back in the ring, Jericho put Punk in a chin-lock with the arm worked on. Crowd got behind Punk a bit to try to help him out of the move. Punk broke out, then walked into a drop toe-hold that sent Punk face-first into the middle buckle. Jericho missed a shoulder charge and punk used his educated feet to his advantage. Running knee in the corner, then bulldog out of it for two. Jericho lifted Punk over the top rope and to the apron and Punk missed a springboard clothesline. Lionsault connected for two. Hard elbow caught Punk charging in, but then Punk powerslammed Jericho. Enziguiri by Jericho got him a two. Punk grabbed Jericho for the GTS, but Jericho blocked it on the way down and put Punk in the Walls of Jericho. Punk struggled in it, and finally made it to the ropes (mixed reaction). Jericho charged in and Punk dumped him to the apron. Jericho to the top, but Punk connected with a kick to the head. Suplex off the second rope by the World Champion. Jericho came back and surprised Punk with a Codebreaker, but Punk got his leg on the rope. Kicks from Jericho, but he walked into a kick to the head. GTS connected for the win.

WINNER: Punk, at 13:52. I like Punk getting the win here even though he’s champ....WWE needs to book him stronger as champion than they did when he was on Raw, and getting a win over Jericho will give him some more credibility.

5- JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE- #1 CONTENDER’S MATCH

Punk joined JR and Grisham on commentary after both combatants made their entrance. Both men looked worn down and started things slowly. Elbow to the back of the head and it looked like Edge and Hardy were sucking wind a minute or two in. Punk said he hopes the fans can overcome how they’re feeling now in reference to them booing him, and he also thanked his fans for sticking with him. Edge went down, holding his shoulder outside the ring, and Hardy was on the mat inside the ring as they went to break.

Hardy was working the arm/shoulder area of Edge out of break. Hardy wrapped Edge’s arm around the top rope to really try to injure it. Big boot by Edge caught Hardy off the ropes. Edge tried to shake his arm out and couldn’t capitalize. Punk again tried to defend his decision to cash in his contract on Sunday night. Edge kicked away at Hardy as he was down. Edge missed a dive at Jeff in the ropes though. Jeff tried to suplex Edge but couldn’t get him up and Edge saw an opening and took out the leg. When Jeff was in peril, Punk replied to an earlier question saying at this point, he’d rather face Jeff. Short clothesline from Hardy, but there wasn’t a lot behind it. Hardy got hung upset down in the corner and ended up almost falling on his head as Edge was recuperating in the opposite corner.

Edge was continuing to have his way with Jeff, kicking at the already injured leg. Edge took the pain to Jeff on the outside of the ring, then tossed him back into the ring. He took Hardy to the mat and applied a leg-hold to Hardy. Hardy kicked Edge off of him and to ringside, but Edge tried to stay on the attack. He came off the top, but was met with a boot to the gut and a DDT. Both men ran the ropes and greeted each other with a clothesline. Hardy stayed on offense and got a bodyslam on Edge. He went to the middle rope and landed a legdrop for a two-count. Edge pushed Jeff’s legs away as he tried the legdrop in between Edge’s legs. Leg. Edge locked in a Sharpshooter. Sunset flip attempt by Hardy got two. Jeff set Edge up for a Twist of Fate, but Edge shoved him off and missed a spear. Hardy rolled Edge up for two. Twist of Fate landed, then Hardy went to the top. Edge rolled to ringside, but Hardy just bowled himself over onto Edge. Edge threw Hardy into Punk at the commentator’s table. Punk went into the ring and attacked Edge for the DQ.

WINNER: Edge, via DQ, at 21:36. Different kind of match here, with each man selling the injuries from Sunday.

Jeff attacked Punk when he realized Punk cost him the match, but Punk came back and gave the GTS to Hardy. Punk’s music played as both men lay in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 14 2009, 08:01 am
From WrestleView.com via Wrestling Observer.com and various Japan sources report the following:

Mitsuharu Misawa, one of the greatest pro wrestlers of all-time, was declared dead at 10:10 p.m. Saturday night at a hospital in Hiroshima from an apparent heart attack after being being given a back suplex in a tag team title match.

Misawa would have turned 47 on June 18th.

Misawa, the president of Pro Wrestling NOAH, was teaming with Go Shiozaki in a match challenging Bison Smith & Akitoshi Saito for the GHC tag team championship in Hiroshima. Misawa was given the move at about 8:45 p.m. and knocked unconscious.

According to eye witness reports, Saito gave Misawa a "routine" back suplex that was described as a "7" in danger on a scale of one-to-ten. He did not get up. It was chaos in the ring as they attempted to revive him using CPR and the crowd was hushed for a while, and began a "Misawa" chant. He turned purple in the ring and was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.

His heart stopped beating in the ring.

The wrestlers were told on the bus that he had passed away.

While it is being reported that he passed away at the hospital, he may have actually passed away in the ring.

Misawa was the Japanese high school national wrestling champion at 187 pounds in 1980, and was recruited by Giant Baba into All Japan Pro Wrestling. He gained his first taste of stardom in 1984 when he was chosen to be the second Tiger Mask. After unmasking in 1990, he became an even bigger star after a series of singles matches with Jumbo Tsuruta.

He was Japan's biggest pro wrestling star of the 90s, and one could make a strong case for him as the top wrestler of the decade. He was the Wrestler of the Year in 1995, 1997 and 1999.

After the death of Shohei "Giant" Baba, Misawa wrestled a little over one more year for All Japan Pro Wrestling, while working as company president. After consistently butting heads with owner Motoko Baba, the widow of Shohei Baba, he and 90% of the All Japan roster quit the company to form Pro Wrestling NOAH.

Here's a video tribute to him on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBmke5gm4Uk)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 17 2009, 11:51 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32862.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. REY MYSTERIO - IC Title match

Before the match, he said Raw has gone in the toilet since he was drafted to Smackdown. He insulted the fans, then said his mask will be his downfall and only Jericho can be his savior and set him free. Rey knocked Jericho out of the ring early, but when he dove at him, Jericho caught him and dropped him across the announce table. They cut to a commercial break at 2:00.

Ross stressed the heritage of Rey's mask throughout the early minutes of the match. Jericho got in sustained offense after the break. Rey came back at 6:00 and dove onto Jericho on the floor. A crawler hyped that Vince McMahon would appoint a new G.M. later on the show. They put a countdown clock on for the start of the World Title match, which is annoying since they shouldn't have any idea, at least not overly within the context of the show, when this match was going to end. Rey gave Jericho a top rope sunset flip for a near fall at 7:00. Then he set up a 619, but Jericho moved. Jericho then charged at Rey, but Rey hit a springboard moonsault press for a two count. Rey then hit the 619 with success. As Rey went for a West Coast Pop, Jericho grabbed at Rey's mask. Rey protected the mask, giving Jericho a chance to hit the Code Breaker out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Jericho in 8:00 to retain the IC Title.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Very good eight minute match. Nice finish, with Rey proving Jericho right in that his mask was his downfall. Ross pointed that out, too.

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. CHRISTIAN - ECW Title match

Josh Matthews asked Striker if he had any idea who bought Raw. Striker brought his right-wing political perspective into things by saying maybe it was President Obama because "he seems to own everything else." They showed a countdown clock saying the World Title mach would begin in ten minutes. Again, "how would they know? since Striker said at the start of this match that it was "one fall to a finish." Will they stop this match mid-stream and re-start it later if one of them doesn't win first? Nice pace to the action. Christian went for a sunset flip at 3:00 for a near fall. Dreamer reversed leverage and scored a two count. Christian climbed to the top rope, but Dreamer moved. Christian sold an ankle injury. Dreamer then caught him with a small package as Christian clutched his ankle while standing on one leg and got a clean three count.

WINNER: Dreamer in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Good short match. I like a finish where a relatively fluke ankle injury can lead to a finish out of nowhere. It's better that than someone of Christian's stature losing out of the blue while otherwise fresh. Not much crowd heat here, but that's no surprise given who was involved and that it was two babyfaces.

3 -- TRIPLE H vs. RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA vs. THE BIG SHOW - Fatal Four-way for the WWE Championship

As Orton walked to the ring, Cole said the WWE Magazine comes out tomorrow. He said Orton is on the cover. They showed the cover. Cole then said if Orton doesn't hold the WWE Title after tonight, "they may have to re-shoot the cover." So Cole is suggesting they haven't already been printed, but the magazine is going to be newsstands tomorrow? Or that they'd all be reprinted before tomorrow? Big Show came out next, then John Cena, then Triple H. So Triple H gets the "biggest star" slot of being the final entrant. Triple H went after Orton at the start, while Show went after Cena. Triple H and Orton battled at ringside as Show and Cena stayed in the ring. Well, until Show tossed Cena across the ring and to the floor. They cut to a very early break less than a minute into the match. They wanted to guarantee that they'd be back before the top of the hour at the usual start time. It'd be a ratings killer to be at commercial break at the start of the hour.

The wrestlers were still paired off after the break. Cole and Lawler reset the show near the top of the hour, letting new viewers know they started an hour early. They hyped the Raw sale announcement. At 6:00 Cena and Triple H knocked Orton and Show out of the ring, so they fought each other for a minute. Big Show entered and knocked both men down. Orton joined back in and they went back to the same pairings.

When Cena lifted Show, but then fell backwards, Orton broke up Show's pin attempt. Show glared at Orton, who bailed out to ringside afterward. Show blocked an Orton punt kick attempt, then beat on him in the corner. Lawler hyped that "the Raw franchise has been sold!" Show worked over Cena with a swing splash in the corner. Orton broke up that pin attempt again. Show stood and grabbed Orton and easily threw him out of the ring. Show then speared Triple H for a two count. Triple H avoided a subsequent swing-elbow attempt. Orton then entered and went for an RKO on Show. Show blocked it. Triple H gave Show a Pedigree. Cena then gave Triple H an Attitude Adjustment. Cena made the cover, but Show kicked out, having had time to recover from the Pedigree. He then gave Show an Attitude Adjustment. Orton broke up the pin and then threw Cena shoulder-first into the ringpost. Orton then gave Show an RKO and got the pin.

WINNER: Orton in 11:00 to become the WWE Champion.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Nice pace to everything. Orton was the opportunistic heel who broke up pins and then seized on an opening in the end. Show was made to look strong throughout the match, a deliberate effort to protect him from being damaged too much by doing the job. It's still pretty ludicrous that Orton was put in this match given that he'd the one who went outside of all rules of conduct in forcing Batista to vacate the WWE Title. But unfortunately WWE doesn't want us to think too hard about that type of thing.

4 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. ROSA MENDEZ

Maryse came to ringside at the start of the match to watch from ringside. Cole asked Lawler if the rumor is true that Maryse is dodging Mickey James. Lawler said that's the word going around because Mickie has proven she can beat Maryse. Cole went back to speculating about the "ownership change" of Raw. Mickie won with a DDT clean. Maryse and Mickie jawed back and forth afterward. Maryse got on the ring apron. Mickie charged at her and Maryse leaped to the floor and left with her belt.

WINNER: Mickie James in 3:00. Not a lot to it, but fine for what it was.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 17 2009, 11:51 am
5 -- C.M. PUNK vs. EDGE vs. JEFF HARDY -- WWE Title match

Hardy's music was still playing after the break. The crowd got to hear that start to finish at least twice. Punk's ring intro then took place. After individual ring intros, Ross noted that Punk got a mixed reaction. The Hardy fans are resenting him and booing him, despite Punk slamming Jeff's heel brother and rival Matt Hardy minutes earlier.

The bell rang to start the match at the start of the third hour. Great timing of the show. Punk dove onto Edge at ringside. Hardy then dove onto both Punk and Edge. Punk took control in the ring. Grisham asked Ross for his take on Trump buying Raw. Ross said he doesn't know what to think, but Trump has a tremendous track record with successful businesses. He said he's interested to see what changes are made starting next week. It's good they're talking about that because it should continue to be one of the main focuses of this show, along with the wrestling and title developments.

After ten minutes of back and forth action, Punk set up a Go To Sleep on Hardy. Edge chopped his legs out from under Punk and then applied a sharpshooter. Hardy came up behind Edge and applied a sleeper. That forced Edge to let go of the sleeper. A minute later Hardy climbed to the top rope. Edge shoved him off and Hardy straddled the top rope. Edge then waited for Punk to rise and charged, but Punk turned it into a powerslam for a believable near fall. Hardy clutched his crotch, which Grisham called "the most delicate of areas." Hardy got up and went for a Twist of Fate, but Edge speared him instead. Edge was slow to capitalize. All three were groggy and down on the mat.

Punk charged at Edge in the corner, but Edge shoved him over the top rope. Punk landed awkwardly on the steel steps. A trainer checked on him on the floor as he clutched his left knee. Meanwhile, Edge and Hardy collided with simultaneous bodyblocks mid-ring. Two trainers, meanwhile, checked on Punk's leg. Ross said, "With Punk at ringside, odds are we're going to crown a new World Heavyweight Champion tonight." Hardy hit a Whisper in the Wind on Edge for a near fall, broken up by Punk. Hardy went after Punk, aggressively kicking at his injured leg. Edge surprised Hardy with a small package for a near fall. Ross called it an inside cradle, since "small package" seems to be an out of vogue name for that move within WWE officially. Hardy climbed to the top rope and hit the Swanton Bomb on Edge. Punk broke up the pin attempt by yanking Hardy to the floor. He rammed Hardy back-first into the ringside steps. Punk rolled into the ring and leverage pinned Edge for the win.

WINNER: Punk in 15:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/2 -- Really good match, pretty much PPV worthy in pacing, intensity, and storyline advancement. They did a good job building the "pick your side" feud between Punk and Hardy. Ross did seem to begin sided against Punk a little, saying his ramming Hardy into the ringside steps may have been uncalled for, which was strange considering Hardy just attacked Punk's injured leg seconds earlier, and Punk did nothing illegal by breaking up pins.

6 -- CARLITO & PRIMO COLON vs. THE HART DYNASTY (David Hart Smith & Tyson Kidd w/Natalya)

Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase joined Cole and Lawler at ringside. DiBiase said Cole should be honored to be on TV with them. Cody told Cole and Lawler to quiet down and let them talk. He was a little clumsy with his wording, too. They seemed nervous and green on the mic. DiBiase said it'd be an honor to win the battle royal, but they're in it to be sure certain others don't win. When Carlito hit Smith with the Back Cracker, Rhodes and DiBiase jumped him to cause a DQ. They threw the Colons out of the ring.

WINNERS: Carlito & Primo via DQ in 3:00.

7 -- TEN-MAN BATTLE ROYAL FOR BASH TITLE SHOT

Randy Orton walked out in the opening minute to watch. Hardy almost eliminated Miz at 2:00. Big Show stood center ring and took shots at nearly everyone. When Show looked at Hardy, Hardy ran under the top rope. In a hilarious and clever spot, Show yanked Hardy back into the ring over the top rope to re-legalize him, then tossed him right back over the top rope to officially eliminate him. He eliminated MVP next. There goes the one legit chance at a fresh PPV main event to just shake things up a little, as noen of the remaining babyfaces are likely to get that boost other than perhaps Kofi. Everyone teamed together, in their collective best interest, to eliminate Big Show. They cut to a break.

Back live in the ring, it was down to Cena, Triple H, Rhodes, DiBiase, Kingston, and Regal as Orton continued to look on. At 12:00 Triple H and Cena faced off. Triple H threw the first punch. They exchanged punches. Triple H tried to lift and toss Cena. Rhodes tried to help. Cena dropped down and lifted Triple H. Triple H fought free. They both went down after a collision. Kofi caught a charging Rhodes with a kick, and then DiBiase got the same treatment. Kofi mounted DiBiase in the corner and punched him, then flipped down and went after Rhodes. DiBiase surprised Kingston with a Snake Eyes. DiBiase and Rhodes surprised Kofi with an elimination. As they high-fived one another, Regal went after them. They fended him off and tossed him over the top rope. Cole hyped the major Trump announcement after this match. Rhodes and DiBiase double-teamed Triple H, and then split off to beat on Cena, too. Cena backdropped a charging DiBiase to eliominate him. He tossed Rhodes next, but Rhodes held onto the top rope and skinned the cat back in. Triple H charged and eliminated Rhodes with a clothesline. That left Cena vs. Triple H. Triple H gave Cena a Pedigree. Rhodes and DiBiase jumped back in and attacked Triple H illegally. Two referees tried to separate them. The Miz popped up from under the ring. Lawler and Cole said he had never officially been eliminated. He slinked back into the ring and waited for Cena and Triple H to rise. He charged them, but they ducked and Miz flew over the top rope. Triple H then tossed Cena over the top rope to win, assuring a Stale Rerun #1 (Orton-Hunter) instead of Stale Rerun A (Orton-Cena).

WINNER: Triple H in 20:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Better than average battle royal.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 17 2009, 11:24 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 6-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32884.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRISTIAN vs. D.H. SMITH (w/Tyson Kidd and Natalya)

Christian started on the offensive with some slaps to the face on Smith, who came back with a series of scoop slams. Paying a lot more attention to how guys are taking bumps after Misawa's mishap taking a bump on the back of his neck. Christian very deliberate protecting his neck by landing on his back on the series of scoop slams. Match moved to the apron where Smith cracked Christian hard across the ring apron with a modified Rock Bottom. Smith then went to what Mathews called the "point in the match where he systemically takes apart his opponent." In other words, the predictable mat-based big-man attack. Smith continued to work on Christian against the ropes as Striker threw out a line without any conviction that the original Hart Foundation doesn't have anything on the new one. Poor Striker. Christian then ducked Smith charging against the ropes to send him flying over the top rope to the floor. Cut to break.

Back to the ring where Smith had Christian grounded on the mat. Fans rallied as Christian came back to life and went up top with a missile dropkick for a two count. Christian called out to the fans to rally behind him, then he landed the pendulum kick in the corner not once by twice. Christian landed a spinning clothesline from the middle rope for a two count, then he slapped Smith across the face from the floor. Christian chased Kidd on the floor, then slipped into the ring to take a hard clothesline from Smith for a two count only. Christian tried a tornado DDT, but Smith avoided it, then Christian hit a sunset flip for a two count only. Christian tried a sleeper hold, but Smith flung him over his shoulder for a running Bulldog powerslam that resulted in a two count only. Natalya then ran interference allowing Kidd to smash Christian across the top rope. Smith then hit a rolling belly-to-back suplex on Christian for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Smith at 14:00. Smith's best in-ring performance thus far on ECW. Christian really made him look good creating movement, but Smith showed a new level of intensity from the previous few weeks. Still a lot of work to go with Smith, but this was progress. (**)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Henry quickly tossed Bourne to the outside, then told Atlas to back off and not get him DQ'ed again. Back in the ring, Henry methodically took apart Bourne. He then wanted a rear bomb out of the corner, but Bourne moved out of the way in time. Bourne then tried some kick strikes on Henry, but Henry popped up to his feet and brick-walled Bourne hard to the mat. [Q3] Henry tried to follow with a big splash, but Bourne moved and went back to the kick strike combo for a two count trying to hook Henry's massive leg. Bourne tried to follow with a crucifix pin, but Henry easily turned it into the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win. Henry finally triumphant over Bourne. Post-match: Henry wasn't done with Bourne, so he scooped him up and delivered yet another World's Strongest Slam.

WINNER: Henry in 3:00. Bourne had some offense to seem somewhat credible, but this program hasn't done much of anything to benefit to Bourne. Henry put two exclamation marks on the finish to this one. If it was the end of the program, Bourne is back to square one trying to be a top star on the ECW brand. If this was a storyline write-off for whatever reason, it was a rough way to go. (*)

3 -- ECW champion TOMMY DREAMER vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title match

Swagger went for submission holds as Striker talked about Dean Malenko trying to show Dreamer a few submission holds to add to his repertoire. Dreamer fought off the early holds before dumping Swagger over the top rope to the floor with a clothesline. Dreamer then wanted his rolling cannonball off the apron, but Swagger countered in mid-air with a powerslam. Yeoch. Cut to break with Swagger talking trash to Dreamer on the floor.

Back from break, Swagger was in control inside the ring talking more trash and working the back. He went for the traditional abdominal stretch, but ref spotted the extra leverage using the top rope and Dreamer escaped with a hip toss. Swagger came right back with a hard clothesline to regain control. Swagger sporting a little beard, by the way. Nice enhancement. Swagger went back to the mat, but Dreamer pulled him to his feet and rammed Swagger into the turnbuckle. Dreamer followed with a bulldog, then a swinging neckbreaker.

Swagger blocked the Dreamer DDT and hit a Northern Lights suplex for a two count. The match moved up top where Dreamer flung Swagger off the top, then missed with a move from the second rope. Swagger tried the gutwrench powerbomb finish, but Dreamer blocked into a small package for a two count. Dreamer with a reverse DDT, then he went up top and missed with a top rope splash. Swagger then quickly followed with the Oklahoma Roll pin for the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 12:00. Nice main event. Swagger is just a complete star right now. Character, personality, moves, connection with the crowd. If he continues on this pace, he'll be a consistent main-eventer for a long time to go. Dreamer was solid as well. Good match-up. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 19 2009, 11:52 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32926.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Chavo was extra-aggressive early on taking it to Santino, who then powered of an abdominal stretch with a hip toss playing to the top row of the arena. Santino ducked Chavo, who tried to charge in the corner. He then ducked right hand jabs and discovered his super power wrestling ability before dumping Chavo to the floor. Back in the ring, Santino tried to go up top for the frog splash, but he played up an inability to pull off a high-risk move. He slipped, then tried a second-rope froggy splash, but Chavo blocked with a boot to the face. Chavo then scored a roll up on Santino for the win.

WINNER: Chavo in 5:00. Basic mid-card comedy match giving Chavo a "measure of revenge" over Santino. WWE is going to keep getting as much mileage out of this as possible, apparently. (*)

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. MIKE WILLIAMS

Classic 1993 Raw squash match with Ryder getting early offense, then Williams having a second of offense before Ryder cut him off. Ryder busted out a leap-over leg smash using the leg covered by his pants. Hair adjustment, then he hit the reverse Fameasser, the Zack Attack, for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 2:00. Good squash match for Ryder to gain some credibility points if he's going to be elevated beyond a lower-card heel on ECW. Lots of upside for Ryder. (n/a)

3 -- EVE vs. LAYLA -- Maria special referee

Layla, playing the heel, claimed mass cheating by Eve early on with a handful of hair. Eve let her guard down, allowing Layla to take control for a bit. Action moved to the mat for a series of leg stretches initiated by Layla. Eve broke free, sold the leg work during her comeback, and scored a nearfall. Eve then busted out an impressive double cartwheel into a splash for the pin and the win. Post-match, Maria wanted the divas to adhere to the Code of Honor. I hear Mike Hogewood jumping for joy somewhere. After tension was built, they shook hands.

WINNER: Eve in 4:00. Good, fundamentally sound divas match adhering to the WWE formula. Eve's finisher was impressive. (*)

4 -- JACK SWAGGER & HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. CHRISTIAN & Unified tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON

Nice double-team work from the champs on Smith early on. Of note, HD changed up their pink and black color combos for the match. This combo works much better than Smith sporting pink knee pads. Christian and Swagger then picked up the action before Smith tagged in and cut off Christian. Action then broke down with Natalya tripping up Primo from the outside to set up HDSwaggs on the attack going to the break.

Back from break, heels continued to work over Primo with crisp tags to keep the action fresh. Primo failed to make it to his corner several times to build up tension for the eventual hot tag. In the middle of the isolation, Smith snapped off an impressive powerslam that rocked the ring. Smith much more aggressive on Tuesday and Thursday TV. Carlito finally took a hot tag at 10:00 and cleaned house on Kidd. Hot action that made Striker want to speak Spanish. Action broke down all over the place before Christian took Swagger to the floor. Primo took Smith to the outside. Down to Kidd and Carlito in the ring with a hot crowd. Carlito ducked a springboard kick from Kidd and nailed the backstabber for the pin and the win. Afterward, babyface trio celebrated in the ring while HD yelled at the front row fans taunting them on the loss. Christian-Swagger stare down to close the show.

WINNERS: Colons & Christian in 12:00. Really hot final two minutes after a nice, fast-paced six-man tag match. Good set up for Colons vs. Legacy (via commentary) and Christian and Swagger going after the ECW Title at The Bash PPV. This was your basic WWE TV show with flashes of athleticism and character development sprinkled throughout on an "evenly paced" show. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 20 2009, 09:13 am
TNA Impact! Results: 6-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32934.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) DANIELS vs. AMAZING RED

Amazing Red didn't even get an entrance. That's six kinds of lame. Red flips out of a wrist lock to start, but Daniels STOs him back down. Red comes back with a dropkick that knocks Daniels right out of the ring, and Red follows him out with a Corkscrew Body Press. Holy Shit. Red brings him back into the ring, but Daniels comes back with a Decapitator Clothesline and a high kick for two. Daniels works a Head Vise for a second, which lets Red power out. Red comes at Daniels with kicks. Daniels blocks the first couple, but gets cause with one to the side of the head. Red follows up with a Spinning Wheel Kick, a Hurricanrana off the top rope, and Flatliner-style DDT off the top. Again—holy shit. Daniels whips Red off into the ropes—Red tries to leapfrog him, but Daniels catches him in a mid-air with a Death Valley Driver. Daniels drives him back down with a Ura-Nage and finishes him off with the BME.

WINNER: Daniels in 4 minutes. Yeah, I can totally understand why they didn't let this match go more than four minutes. Who books this show?

(2) RAVEN (w/DR. STEVIE) vs. JETHRO HOLLIDAY
Raven's Clockwork Orange House of Fun Match

There's a single cage wall laden with weapons on one side of the ring. Holliday charges Raven with a trashcan on the ramp. Raven tries to hit him with a kendo stick, but Holliday connects first and pounds him down to the ring. He grabs a trash can lid from the wall and hits Raven in the head. He gets too close to the apron though, and Dr. Stevie nails him with a kendo stick from the outside. Raven Cactus Clotheslines him out of the ring, then Russian Leg Sweeps him into the guard rail. He hits a couple kendo stick shots, and chokes Holliday back into the ring. He hits some sort of pan to Holliday's head and sets up a chair in the middle of the ring for the Raven Effect. Holliday grabs the chair and twists out, then uses the chair to block an attempted punch. He sits Raven down on the chair and kicks him in the head. The crowd is entirely behind Raven, who Holliday Full Nelson Suplexes into the cage. Raven gets caught between the ropes and the cage, so Holliday works him over a bit. When he goes for a big charge though Raven gets out of the way and Holliday goes through the cage to the floor. Raven gets a quick cover for the win.

WINNER: Raven in four minutes. This was a good intro to Raven for viewers who've never seen him before.

(3) DAFFNEY & ANGELINA LOVE (w/VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE) vs. AWESOME KONG (w/RAESHA SAEED) & TAYLOR WILDE

Love starts things off with Taylor Wilde, who wants Daffney. They brawl for a few seconds, then Wilde tags in Kong. Love immediately tags in Daffney, who Kong destroys. Daffney bounces off an attempted charge, then gets Butt Bumped in the corner. Kong tags in Wilde, who loses control when Love grabs her hair from the outside. Love tags back in, and the heels work the five-count. Love hits a high kick that barely leads to two. She whips Wilde off into the ropes, but Taylor ducks beneath the attempted clothesline and both women yank each other's hair at the same time. Love tags out, and Daffney tries to grab Wilde, but gets kicked off. Kong tags in and clotheslines Daffney's head off a couple times. She looks for an Awesome Bomb—Angelina Love tries to stop it with a Bicycle Kick, but Kong catches her leg and tosses her back. Rayne and Sky try to help out from the apron; Saeed pulls them down, so they hairspray her eyes. That still gives Kong enough time to hit an Implant Buster on Daffney for the win.

WINNER: Awesome Kong & Taylor Wilde in three minutes. This was a very good showcase for Kong, which is a little strange when you consider that she's just about the only woman not to have a match on Sunday.

(4) LETHAL CONSEQUENCES & THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. TEAM 3D & BEER MONEY.

Team 3D and Beer Money come out still brawling. Beer Money gain the advantage, but when they try to come to the ring Lethal Consequences cut them off with stereo Splashes. Team 3D go after Lethal Consequences. While the ref is distracted, Suicide runs into the ring and floors both Guns. Team 3D make it to the ring. They take out a damaged Sabin with a Double Team Neck Breaker and pin Shelley after a 3D.

WINNER: Team 3D & Beer Money in about fifteen seconds. That was different.

(5) JEFF JARRETT & MICK FOLEY (w/ROCCO & SALLY BOY) vs. AJ STYLES & SAMOA JOE vs. STING & KURT ANGLE

Foley and Sting lock up to start. Foley creates some distance with a right hand, but Sting comes back with some strikes and a Face Plant. He tags in Kurt Angle, who immediately goes behind with a hammerlock. Mick elbows him off, wrenches his arm, then tags in Jarrett. Jarrett continues to work over the left arm, then tags Mick right back in. Foley tees off on Angle in the corner, but misses on a charge and clips his knee on the turnbuckle. Angle starts kicking it, but foolishly walks into AJ & Joe's corner. They pop him, which lets Foley hit a clothesline and tag in Jarrett. Jarrett quickly goes for a Stroke, but it's reversed into an Angle Lock. Jarrett kicks Angle off immediately. Kurt tries to come back with an Olympic Slam, but Jarrett slips out and hits a big DDT. Mick goes over to the commentary booth since he needs a break. A kick from Sting on the apron allows Kurt to take control in the ring with an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex.

It's 10:58 when we come back from the break after almost four minutes of commercials. These long, end of show ads are really starting to annoy the hell out of me. Angle is still in control of Jarrett. Jarrett gets a leg up in the corner, but when he tries to follow up with a DDT Angle knocks him down and cinches in an Angle Lock. Jarrett crawls over to the corner, but Mick's still on commentary. Referee Slick Johnson tries to get Mick to come over. Eventually Mick comes back, but Jarrett's annoyed and just tags in Joe. Joe floors Angle, knocks down an interfering Sting, then Power Bombs Angle into Sting. Foley goes back to commentary, but this time Jarrett goes after him. He hits Foley with a big right, then quickly plants Rocco & Sally with a chair before they can respond. He hits Foley in the back of the head with the chair while he's at it, then whacks Sally again for no clear reason. In the ring, Angle goes to the top rope, but Joe catches him with a leaping spin kick and finishes him off with a Muscle Buster for the win.

WINNER: Samoa Joe & AJ Styles in 10 minutes.

Joe and AJ share a man-hug in the ring, and then Joe starts trash talking Angle.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 21 2009, 10:59 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only. (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_32978.shtml)

1- JEFF HARDY vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Hardy with a dropkick on Jericho, then a corner clothesline. He missed the corner dropkick however. Abdominal stretch, with the requisite “ask him” included. Hardy hip-tossed out of it. He hit a seated dropkick even though Jericho was laying flat on the mat. Whisper in the Wind connected for two. Jericho rebounded with a Walls of Jericho attempt with no success. Hardy went to the top for a Swanton, but Jericho escaped the ring. Hardy went to jump on him, but Jericho side-step him and Hardy went face-first into the barricade. Jericho threw Hardy back into the ring when one of three men sitting at ringside dressed as Rey Mysterio jumped off the barricade and landed a headscissors on Jericho that sent him face-first into the ringpost. He couldn’t make it back in the ring before the count of ten.

WINNER: Hardy, at 5:05.

-After the match, Hardy hit the Swanton on Jericho.

2- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Ziggler has new music, for those who are interested in those types of things. Khali grabbed Ziggler’s foot and clotheslined him, then chopped him in the chest. Big boot on Ziggler and this one looked to be over as soon as it started. He got Dolph by the throat, but Dolph went after the legs of Khali. Ranjin Singh got on the apron to argue with the ref. Ziggler got a chair and Khali knocked it out of the air. Ziggler played dead and the ref saw Khali with the chair, so he DQ’d Khali.

WINNER: Ziggler via DQ, at 2:04. Remember when refs could only call stuff they saw?

3- MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX

Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Fox after Melina did the Matrix dodge and kick. Fox got Melina down on the mat and into a body-scissors. After stretching Melina some more, Melina came back with her finisher for the win.

WINNER: Melina, at 1:44.

Michelle McCool, who was at ringside for Fox, attacked after the match, including ramming her knee into Melina’s head while Melina was propped against the commentator’s table. McCool said she wouldn’t just beat Melina at The Bash, she was going to humiliate her.

4- EDGE vs. JOHN MORRISON

The match began as the show returned from break. Morrison worked to frustrate Edge early on. Morrison worked the arm with arm-bars and arm-drags as the match began slowly. The tide turned when Edge got a knee-lift in. Edge concentrated on the polished abdominal region of Morrison. Edge went to some heel tactics by choking Morrison in the middle ropes. Morrison made a comeback that ended with a two-count, as Edge caught him on the top rope and dropped him chest-first across the top rope. Morrison was writhing on the outside as the show went to break.

Morrison tried to work out of a waist-lock and did, but was taken back to the mat by Edge. Another waist-lock and Morrison elbowed out. Credit the crowd, they seemed to stay with the match despite it’s slower pace. Morrison with a knee to the face of Edge that garnered him a two-count. Pele kick sent Edge to the floor. He was caught on a baseball slide attempt, but Morrison head-scissored Edge into the ring steps. Flying Chuck Kick missed and Edge locked in the Sharpshooter. Morrison again went on offense and set up Starship Pain, but Edge wasn’t having any of it. After being crotched on the top rope, Morrison rolled up Edge for two, but on the kick-out, his shoulder rammed the ring post. Edge smelled blood and set up for the Spear. Morrison leapt over it and hit the Flying Chuck Kick for two. Moonlight Drive was blocked and Edge hit the Edgecution for two. After missing again with the Starship Pain, Edge speared him and picked up the “W.”

WINNER: Edge, at 16:47. Nothing to complain about here.

5- RICKY ORTIZ & CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. R-TRUTH & CRYME TYME

Flying shoulderblock by JTG for a near-fall on Ortiz. Shad came in and a shoulder tackle later, he got a two-count on Ortiz. Shad was a bit overzealous on offense, causing Ortiz to take over. Haas tagged in and continued to work Shad over. Shad finally made the tag to R-Truth, who was stopped in his tracks by Benjamin. Truth went for a pin, but it was broken up by Haas and Ortiz. Things predictably broke down, leaving Truth and Benjamin in the ring. Benjamin got booted in the gut coming off the top and was on the receiving end of a flying, twisting forearm to pick up the victory.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme & R-Truth, at 4:05.

6- REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK

Jericho was on commentary for this match. Rey and Punk shook hands prior to the match. Mysterio dropkicked Punk’s knee, working over the part of the body he injured on Monday night. Punk dropped Mysterio face-first on the top turnbuckle. When the camera was on him, it looked as if Jericho was intently watching the action, even while providing analysis. Punk snuck out of the ring on a 619 attempt. They went to break with Punk holding his head on the outside.

Punk was on offense out of break. Rey was sent high in the air and landed hard on his stomach. Both men were down and the crowd began to chant “619.” Crossbody by Rey for two. Headscissor take-down on Punk. 619 set up, but Punk tossed him over his head. Rey landed on the apron and took Punk down, then Punk came back with a spinning heel kick. Punk struck with his knee, but couldn’t hit the bulldog. He avoided another 619 and Mysterio then got out of a GTS attempt and rolled Punk up for two. Both men were slow to reach their feet. Punk dumped Rey to ringside when Rey held onto the ropes on a GTS try. Jericho saw an opportunity and threw Rey into the ring post. Jericho called it “an eye for an eye.” The official got the count up to nine, but Mysterio made it back in, much to Jericho’s chagrin. Punk went right back on him with a GTS to pick up the pinfall.

WINNER: Punk, at 11:41. Another solid match, as one would expect.

Jeff Hardy came out to argue with the ref about Jericho’s attack and Hardy seemed to lay some blame at the feet of Punk, though he didn’t have a mic. Punk raised the title over his head and limped to the back as fans booed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 22 2009, 01:30 pm
TNA Slammiversary PPV Results: 6-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_32989.shtml)

1 -- X Division champion SUICIDE vs. CONSEQUENCES CREED vs. JAY LETHAL vs. ALEX SHELLEY vs. CHRIS SABIN -- X Division Title match -- King of the Mountain match

Everyone ganged up on Suicide to start the match...and the PPV froze again. Goodness gracious. Let's describe this still-shot from left to right. Shelley on the apron pointing to the stands. Suicide on the ground in the ring. Lethal in the middle of the ring sporting his red & white Savage trunks. Sabin pointing to his hand. Creed doing something on the right. Unfroze 45 seconds later with Lethal holding a ladder. Didn't work out, as Suicide smashed all four opponents with the ladder. Suddenly, Lethal was pinned. What the heck? Oh yeah, one of these matches where pins happen that would never happen in any other match during the year. Lethal's in the penalty box. Suicide then scored a chest-breaker on Shelley out of the corner to score a pin. Shelley in the penalty box now. Lethal out in two minutes. Sabin entered with chair in hand to smash Suicide in the head with a chair toss. Lethal followed with the Lethal Combination into the chair. Everyone ganged up on Suicide to cover him. Apparently Lethal, Creed, and Sabin are legal to hang up the title belt since they scored a pin. Or maybe just one of them, Lethal. Shelley then exited the penalty box and all four of them danced in the ring. Cue up some flashy spots with all four men running around the ring for Guns to pop the hometown crowd.

Suicide re-entered the ring after his penalty box time. Meanwhile, Creed pinned Shelley. Two pins on Shelley. Lethal and Creed then did some stuff. Suicide then grappled Sabin and monkey-flipped him onto a ladder propped up in the corner. Suddenly, Sabin came to life and ran up the corner ringpost on top of the penalty box to splash Creed and Suicide on the floor. And we freeze again. Still shot has Creed on the left holding Suicide as he's breaking the fall in the middle with Sabin on the right crashing down onto Suicide. Suicide just taking a beating in this one. A minute later, unfrozen with Lethal surfboarding a ladder in the corner. Interesting. Suicide then suplexed Creed across the ladder, which catapulted Lethal off the ladder into a somersault fall into center ring. Sabin was apparently pinned while frozen, so he re-entered from the penalty box. Sabin smashed Lethal with a Tornado DDT to make him eligible to win. All five are eligible now.

At 15:00, Shelley hit Creed with a running Celtic Cross. Sabin hit Suicide with the Cradle Shock, then he pointed to the sky. Sabin then gabbed the X Title belt from Curtis Granderson to climb the ladder to hang above the ring. Suicide cut him off, though. Sabin came right back with a hesitation basement dropkick to Suicide's head. Lethal then exited the penalty box to cut off Sabin from climbing the ladder. Shelley was knocked to the floor, leaving four men in the ring. Sabin then ate a ladder placed horizontally across the ring apron and guardrail. Shelley baseball slide kicked Suicide into a chair ringside, then he hit a splash onto the floor. Lethal followed with a top rope elbow smash onto Sabin, who was still laying on the ladder.

At 20:00, Shelley superkicked Creed on the ring apron. He then nailed a Sliced Bread running off the apron with Creed eating the apron. Shelley tried Sliced Bread on Suicide by running off the penalty box, but Suicide shoved him off into the guardrail. Suicide grabbed the X Title, then set up the ladder in the ring to heavy boos. Crowd not feeling Suicide retaining. Suicide started climbing the ladder, but Lethal tipped the ladder over and Suicide climbed onto the penalty box. Suddenly, everyone ganged up on the penalty box. Someone's going down. Big intensity as more stuff was set up. Shelley grabbed the title belt in the interim, but Suicide climbed across the penalty box and across the ladder to smash Shelley with a Diamond Cutter. Suicide then grabbed the title belt and climbed the ladder to place the belt on the hook to win the match and disappoint the fans.

WINNER: Suicide at 23:30. First-half of the match was rough with the off-spots, random pins, and the PPV freezing. Second-half was very good with some highspots, teases for Sabin and Shelley, and a finishing sequence that drew some real emotion from the crowd. Balances out to a better-than-usual X Division PPV opener. (***)

2 -- DANIELS vs. SHANE DOUGLAS -- TNA roster spot on the line

Douglas attacked Daniels to start things off. Daniels then went low for a dropkick to the knees to settle into a headlock to ground Douglas. Douglas needed a breather at 3:00, so he slipped to the floor and talked to Don West, who appreciated the strategy. Daniels waited for Douglas to turn around and he nailed a springboard moonsault on the floor. Douglas then reversed a whip into the ring steps to smash Daniels's elbow into the steps. Douglas went to work on Daniels's elbow for a while before starting to throw right hand bombs. I don't think Douglas can extend his elbow, so the punches looked cartoonish. Daniels then ducked a punch jab and landed the STO. He quickly followed with the Best Moonsault Ever for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Daniels at 8:20. Okay undercard match. Douglas looked slow, but he tried to at least work hard. Not the best spot for Daniels to be in, as the match won't be remembered by the next TV. (*1/4)

3 -- Knockouts champion ANGELINA LOVE (w/Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne) vs. TARA -- Knockouts Title match

Tara was in control early on and Angelina went to the floor to regroup. Tara tried to follow, but she was caught in a BP trap to give Angelina control back in the ring. Angelina then dumped Tara to the floor to allow MadSky to attack Tara while Angelina distracted ref Rudy. Back in the ring, Tara fought back with right hand blows before nailing a spinning back slam. She didn't make a pin, though, and suddenly went into Black Widow turn-the-neck mode. Tara went to the floor and measured Velvet for some random right hand smashes. Back in the ring, Angelina gave Tara a superkick. MadSky then sprayed Tara in the face with hairspray with the ref distracted allowing Angelina to pin Tara and retain the KO Title.

WINNER: Angelina Love at 7:05. Basic TNA women's match with outside interference and referee incompetence. Not particularly memorable. Felt like there was more of an opportunity to have a stand-out women's match, but they put together a basic undercard match. (*)

4 -- RAVEN & DAFFNEY (w/Dr. Stevie) vs. ABYSS & TAYLOR WILDE -- Monster's Ball match

Hey, look, we're back joined in progress about seven minutes later. We've got Taylor kicking Daffney on the floor. Abyss and Raven were brawling off to the side. Either Daffney is bleeding or her make-up is running. Taylor then climbed on top of a speaker on the entrance stage and landed a splash through a table on Daffney. Raven was...not bleeding. Abyss was...not bleeding. Shock. Camera focused on Raven and Abyss as they moved into the ring. Here's Abyss with the bag of tacks, but Dr. Stevie slipped into the ring for a chair shot to the head on Abyss. For seeming like a smart dude in interviews, Abyss continues to be dumb taking chair shots to the head every month. Abyss came up bleeding and Raven gave Abyss a drop toehold into the chair. Women moved to ringside where Daffney smashed Taylor's hands with a cookie sheet. That's going to hurt the Tweet hand. Back in the ring, Abyss made a comeback and smashed Raven with weapon shots. Abyss chokeslammed Raven, but Dr. Stevie ran interference to prevent a pin. Raven then accidentally trash can shot Richards and Abyss launched Taylor off the top with a splash onto Raven. Stevie ran interference on the ref again.

Abyss then spread out tacks across the ring before Daffney tried to attack Abyss. He no-sold, then Daffney realized she was trapped between the tacks and Taylor. Daffney then ran into Taylor, who press-slammed Daffney back-first into the tacks. Crazy spot that popped the crowd. Daffney freaked, then Taylor tried to pin Daffney, but Richards broke up the pin. Abyss then wanted to finish off Richards, but Raven smashed Abyss with a chair shot. Raven followed with a DDT into the chair and Raven covered Abyss, but he kicked out. Abyss quickly recovered and gave Raven a Black Hole Slam into the tacks. No one wins with that. Abyss sold tacks in his forearms, then he covered Raven for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Abyss & Daffney in ???. Missed the first however much of the match due to PPV Freezegate, but a crazy good finish. Not a fan of these bump & junk matches, but this had some good moments involving Dr. Stevie, who plays his character so great. Daffney and Taylor stole the show a little bit here from what I saw. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 22 2009, 01:30 pm
Okay, apparently Caldwell is having problems with his PPV provider so I'm switching over to ProWrestling.net and Jason Powell's ongoing report (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNAPPVreports/article1006506.shtml) for the duration.

5. Sting pinned Matt Morgan in 10:00 The stipulation was that Morgan could take control of the Main Event Mafia by defeating Sting. They fought to ringside early and Morgan picked up Sting by the legs and flung him into the guardrail. Once the wrestlers were back in the ring, Tenay said Team 3D had just arrived at the building. It seems like they're giving them one big excuse for losing by making such a fuss over it throughout the show.

Morgan was dominant early, but Sting came back and hit a missile dropkick at 7:00. He stood up and pounded his chest as the crowd applauded. Morgan came right back and went for the Hellevator, but Sting slipped out. It looked like Sting was supposed to hit the Scorpion Death Drop coming out of the Hellevator, but he slipped. He stood up and hit the move a moment later for a near fall.

At 8:40, Sting applied the Scorpion Leg Lock, but Morgan immediately powered out. Sting came right back by hitting the Scorpion Death Drop off the second rope for the clean pin.

Powell's POV: Sloppy at the end. The live crowd groaned when Sting missed the first Scorpion Death Drop, but they still popped for the finish. So far, it's been a very predictable pay-per-view as far as the results go.

6. Beer Money defeated Team 3D to win the TNA Tag Titles in 17:00. Rather than build up the two best tag teams in the company, Tenay and West spent the first few minutes doing babyface play-by-play vs. heel color commentator schtick. Sigh. Back and forth action to start. Brother Ray performed a nasty release suplex on Roode at 4:30. He got up slowly, but appeared to be fine.

At 8:10, Brother Ray hit the Bubba Bomb on Roode. Team 3D was in control of the match and set up for 3D, but Storm recovered and blocked the move by taking out Ray. They dumped Storm to ringside and hit the Whassup spot. Ray got the live crowd to chant "Get the tables." Devon obliged by setting up a table at ringside. However, Storm recovered and attacked Devon. Back inside the ring, Roode hit a spinebuster on Ray for a nearfall.

Beer Money performed the "Beer Money" routine and a decent number of fans chanted along. The British Invasion walked to ringside, which drew "USA" chants from the crowd. Doug Williams and Brutus Magnus sat down and joined the announcers on commentary while Rob Terry stood behind them.

The British Invasion joined right in on the Tenay vs. West antics while the wrestlers in the ring continued to work their tails off. At 14:30, it appeared Team 3D were setting up for a Doomsday Device, but Roode ended up hitting a Backstabber on Ray. At 15:30, Team 3D hit the Doomsday Device on Roode for a near fall.

Storm accidentally spat beer into the eyes of his partner. Rob Terry climbed onto the ring apron and distracted the referee while Team 3D hit their finisher. After some commotion with British Invasion, Beer Money hit the DWI on Devon and scored the pin to become new tag team champions...

Powell's POV: The outcome was ridiculously foreshadowed. Did they really have to give Team 3D so many excuses? At least they didn't give them all the excuses in the world to lose only to have them "defy the odds" like WWE has done with John Cena in his matches with Big Show. Good in-ring action, but the announcers were really annoying. Heel West is funny at times, but they really need to pick their spots better. There was no need to break into the heel vs. babyface antics during this match.

7. Kurt Angle defeated Mick Foley, Samoa Joe, Jeff Jarrett, and A.J. Styles in a King of the Mountain match for the TNA Title in 21:30. Once Foley was announced, the live crowd popped. However, it was because Joe put on a Red Wings jersey. Joe attacked Angle before the bell. The two referees counted. They put Joe in the penalty box to start the match and ruled that Angle is eligible to put the title on the hook. Um, okay.

Early in the match, Jarrett pinned Foley. The best referee in the world (or world's best best buddy) Mark Johnson didn't count to three at first. He finally counted to three. Foley stood up and clapped and took his spot in the box. Jarrett is eligible, and Foley was intentionally pinned. Foley hollered to the announcers it was part of his plan to take "a little rest-a-roonie."

At 5:30, Joe locked Foley in the Kokina Clutch while the other three wrestlers fought at ringside. Think about how much that would have meant if Joe and Foley had fought in an actual match in ROH a few years ago. Unfortunately, it didn't mean much in TNA. Joe choked out Foley, so Joe is eligible and Foley went back to the box.

At 9:00, Joe made the first play to hang the belt, but Foley knocked the ladder over and Joe took a nasty spill. Joe came down on the ladder, which was shot after that. Jarrett picked it up and tossed it at Angle at ringside. Jarrett brought another ladder inside the ring and made his first play to hang the belt. Angle came in and low-blowed Jarrett.

At 12:30, Jarrett smacked Angle over the head with his guitar. Jeff climbed the ladder to hang the belt. Foley followed and then asked Jeff to punch him. They traded punches until Styles springboarded off the ropes and dropkicked the ladder, which fell on top of him. Styles came up holding his back in pain.

At 14:00, Foley and Styles fought onto the top of the penalty box. Styles teased throwing Foley off the box and onto the announcers table in a Hell in a Cell takeoff, but Foley tossed Styles back inside the ring for a big bump. A short time later, Angle hit the Angle Slam on Jarrett. Foley leapt off the penalty box and nailed an elbow drop on Angle and then scored a near fall. Wow!

Tenay reminded viewers that Styles was the only person who wasn't eligible to hang the belt. Around 17:00, Styles pinned Foley at ringside, so Foley went to the box and Styles became eligible. Jarrett made a play to hang the belt. Styles cut him off and then Angle grabbed Jarrett's leg. Jarrett leapt off the ladder and DDT'd Angle.

At 18:45, all five wrestlers ended up back in the ring. Foley rammed the belt into Styles's head. Foley went toward Joe, who kicked the belt back in his face. Joe climbed the ladder with the belt, but Styles stopped him. A.J. ended up with the title belt around his neck and frantically tried to climb the ladder, but Joe stopped him.

At 20:30, Styles threw Joe toward the ropes and he dove onto Jarrett and Foley. Angle grabbed Styles, but A.J. countered with a Styles Clash. Styles climbed the ladder, but Joe grabbed him from behind and powerbombed him.

Joe, who had the belt, and Angle climbed the belt simultaneously. Joe teased hitting Angle with the belt and then smiled. Joe handed Angle the belt. Angle hung the belt on the hook to win the match and become the new TNA Champion. Angle leaned down and kissed the side of Joe's head.

Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner, Booker T, and Sharmell walked onto the stage and clapped. West said it made perfect sense that Joe got himself intentionally disqualified at the start of the match to make Angle eligible. WTF? Tenay said it was ironic that Joe would stab the other TNA Originals in the back on the company's seventh anniversary. West yelled, "Happy Anniversary, everybody" to close the show...

Powell's POV: I hate the finish. Why did Joe beat the shit out of the other Mafia members over the last few weeks? West's explanation about Joe attacking Kurt at the start of the match was ridiculous because there's no way they could have known how the referees would have responded. I don't mind a Joe heel turn, but I hate the "only in TNA" swerve.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 23 2009, 02:17 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33022.shtml)
Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JEFF HARDY & REY MYSTERIO & GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) vs. EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Action started hot with Jeff clearing the heels to the floor, then Khali launched Rey off his shoulders for a 12-foot splash onto the heels. Khali then teased a giant splash off the top, which would have brought the house and ring down, but Jericho cut him off from behind. They have a countdown clock until Hunter vs. Orton, which is a nice touch. Edge and Jericho ran interference on Rey, allowing Jericho to cut off a 619 from Rey. Punk wanted to know what's the deal with the chicken. Don't think it's free range. Heels dominated Rey, but Rey avoided a dropkick and kicked Edge in the head. Hardy then came in with a hot tag on Dolph to get in some offense. Hardy then found a spear out of nowhere from Edge. Khali tried to make him pay, but Jericho blocked with a codebreaker of sorts. Edge with a spear of sorts on Khali, whose body is tough to move. Rey then hit the 619 on Edge before hitting a moonsault onto Jericho on the floor. Back in the ring, chaos led to a Twist of Fate on Dolph. Hardy then went up top and nailed the Swanton Bomb for the pin and the win. Ross suggested Hardy could do that on Sunday, but Punk said there's no way he's losing the belt at The Bash.

WINNERS: Team Hardy at 5:15. Fine, high-energy match to focus on Hardy vs. Punk for Sunday. Rey vs. Jericho had decent focus as well. Edge seemed to be lost in the shuffle. Overall, good "sum of the parts" opening match. (*1/2)

Post-match: Punk slipped into the ring with title belt in hand to have a chat with Hardy. Punk raised Hardy's hand in victory, but Hardy thought it was the ref raising his hand. He turned around and shoved Punk's hand away in disgust. Hardy then went to the floor to have a stare down with Punk, who held his title belt high.

2 -- PRIMO COLON (w/Carlito) vs. CODY RHODES (w/Ted DiBiase, Jr.)

Tag title match preview for Sunday started with some basic mat holds between Primo and Cody. 13 minutes until Orton vs. Hunter. Match moved to the floor at 2:00 where DiBiase stalked Primo. Back in the ring, Cody smashed Primo with a kick beneath the chin into a Russian legsweep for a nearfall. Primo then came back with a turnaround splash off the second rope, but Cody rolled through and hooked Carlito's baggy orange pants out of sight of the ref for the pin and the win. Legacy with the leg-up on the tag champs going into the PPV.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes at 3:53. Match was just okay. Fine set-up for The Bash. (*)

3 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. TRIPLE H -- WWE Title match -- Last Man Standing

Hunter quickly knocked Orton to the outside in the opening seconds and Orton began selling a shoulder injury to play up Hunter's previous damage to Orton's shoulder. Back in the ring, Hunter teased the Pedigree, but Orton blocked and dumped Hunter to the floor. Hunter selling a left knee injury. Action then moved over the guardrail into the front row with Hunter in control. Hunter beat the crap out of Orton with right hand punches, but Orton lured Hunter into a back drop over the guardrail to the floor.

Orton regained control and went to work on Hunter's left knee again. Orton then picked up the ring steps and smashed Hunter in the face with Hunter blocking slightly with his hands. Match moved back into the ring where Orton began stomping on Hunter's leg. Orton wrapped Hunter's leg around the ringpost, then he grabbed a steel chair, but Hunter kicked the chair into Orton's face. Orton brushed it off, though, and popped Hunter across the face with a chair. Not a clean blow, but anything chair-related above the shoulders should be a no-no. Hunter got up at an eight count and Orton started clearing the announce table. Orton took too long and Hunter low-blowed him. Hunter teased a Pedigree on the table, but Orton blocked and surprised Hunter with an RKO onto the face of the table. Table didn't break. That's a sturdy table. Hunter made it up at nine, then back body dropped Orton onto the table. Still didn't break. Hunter then grabbed a TV monitor and smashed Orton in the face.

At 11:00, the match moved across the ringside area to the entrance ramp. Hunter rammed Orton head-first into the barricade along the entrance ramp, then he gave Orton a spinebuster on the ramp. Hunter still selling that left knee. Orton got up at nine, then Hunter teased the Pedigree again, but Orton back dropped Hunter onto the ramp. Both men reached their feet on the ten count before moving the brawl to the floor below the entrance ramp. Orton then teased the RKO, but Hunter shoved Orton over a temporary barricade near the electrical area. That's some serious limited view seating. A crew guy was wiped out in the process and the ref called for a trainer.

Orton introduced a ladder into the proceedings and he put Hunter's left leg inside the ladder to begin stomping and stomping away on the ladder with the knee instead. Huge crowd heat against Orton as Hunter screamed in pain. Ref began his ten count as Lawler suggested Hunter live to fight another day. Orton stopped the ten count, though, and slowly pulled Hunter up to his feet. Hunter unable to stand as Orton dragged him up a few rungs of the ladder. He tried an RKO, but Hunter shoved him off out of desperation. Hunter suddenly came to life and nailed a Pedigree on the stage. Hunter sold the left knee as the ref began a ten count on both men. Hunter tried to pull himself up with the ladder as Orton was KO'ed, but Hunter couldn't make his feet and the ref reached a ten count. Post-match: Refs helped Hunter up to walk to the back, but he got one last stomp in on Orton, who remained out cold but still WWE champion.

WINNER: Draw at 20:05. Very physical, grueling match that gave TV viewers everything they could expect to see on pay TV on Sunday. Great drama playing up the Orton vs. Hunter feud. Not worth spending money to see a re-match on Sunday, but a great 20 minutes of TV to watch live on free TV. (***1/2)

4 -- MICKIE JAMES & BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA vs. Divas champion MARYSE & BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES

Heel divas worked over the Bellas early on in the match to build up to Mickie's hot tag and comeback. Mickie cleaned house on Rosa, then knocked Maryse off the apron, but Beth interjected. Action broke down with the Bellas clearing Beth out of the ring. Chaos then settled down and Mickie was left in the ring with Rosa to smash her with a superkick for the pin. Afterward, Maryse tried to snip at Mickie's heels, but Mickie sent her away. Maryse then directed her frustrations toward Rosa for losing again.

WINNERS: Team Mickie at 5:00. More build-up to the eventual Maryse vs. Mickie match again. Fine match with WWE giving them a decent amount of time this week. (*)

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW

Cena landed an early shoulder tackle that knocked Show to the floor. Cena didn't have control for long, as Show blasted him back in the ring with a spear that took the life out of Cena and the crowd. Show off his feet for a spear was quite the sight. Show wanted the "hush the crowd" frying pan chop to the chest, but Cena escaped only to take an overhead release powerbomb that Show's started using recently. Cena rolled to the floor to recover, then Show beat him up some more back in the ring.

Cena tried to get his legs back under him and he avoided a big butt bomb in the corner. Show brick-walled him, though, and went back on the attack. In other words, Show picked up the "do a move, walk around, move, walk around" pace. Cena then blocked another corner splash and knocked down Show before hitting a top rope guillotine smash. Cena hit the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but then Show popped up and hit a chokeslam in center ring for a nearfall. Show stepped on Cena's chest, then he went to the corner and teased a Vader Bomb before connecting. Splat. Lawler wanted to know why Show didn't cover him for the win. Show then rolled Cena to center ring and prepared to mount him for the Camel Clutch, but Cena slipped underneath Show and slapped on the STF. He got it locked on finally. Crowd exploded. Suddenly, Miz showed up ringside to distract Cena. Cena fought him off, though, and had the FU on Show, but Miz shoved Show on top of Cena. Ref didn't see it, as Show's size blocked his view. Show with the cover for the win.

Post-match: Miz slipped into the ring and stood tall over Cena. He then mocked Cena with the "You Can't See Me" hand wave over Cena's fallen body. There was a little girl facing the hard camera with a pro-Miz sign that the camera slowly pulled away. That was great.

WINNER: Show at 10:25. Just the same Cena vs. Show match we've seen before, except for Show winning. Gives Cena vs. Miz some juice for Sunday. Could be a sleeper to sell some PPV buys if anyone wants to spend $40 after getting a free PPV without commercials tonight. (*1/2)

And oh yeah...so much for Trump owning RAW...Vince 'bought' it back. TIME WASTE!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2009, 12:02 am
ECW on SciFi Results: 6-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33058.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. TYSON KIDD (w/David Hart Smith and Natalya)

A minute into the match, referee reprimanded Smith and Natalya for giving the appearance they were going to try to get involved in the action. He then ejected them from ringside to get a reaction out of the crowd. After the heels argued the call, Bourne took Kidd to the floor and hit a dive. Vocal "E-C-Dub" chant from the ringside fans. Don't hear that very often anymore. Back in the ring, Kidd landed a kick to the taped ribs to begin working over Bourne on the mat. Pace quickened as Bourne came back with a running head scissors for a two count. Bourne landed a roundhouse kick to the gut, then he quickly went up top to hit the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 5:00. Match left a lot to be desired giving them only five minutes. Seemed like there was about ten more minutes left in both men to put together a stand-out TV match. Kidd didn't benefit from this match, as he wasn't given much time for an offensive display before taking a clean loss. (*1/2)

2 -- FINLAY vs. ZACK RYDER

Match was joined in progress with Ryder begging off from Finlay. Ryder then picked up a bit of offense working on Finlay's mid-section before both men butted heads mid-ring. Ryder capitalized with a boot to the head before driving a boot to Finlay's throat. Ryder then settled into a headlock trying to ground Finlay into the mat. Finlay was bruised up over the right eye at this point and Ryder continued his attack on the injured area. Ryder tried another knee to the eye, but Finlay blocked and started his comeback. He landed the Rolling Hills drop out of the fireman's carry position before giving Ryder a back body drop. Ryder then slipped him throat-first across the middle rope. Ref checked on Finlay, who sold the eye injury. Ryder tried to remove the top turnbuckle in the process, but ref reprimanded him. Finlay then rolled up Ryder and the ref came back around to count a three count for Finlay. Post-match: Ryder grabbed his Woo Woo Woo hair in disgust after being one-upped by one-eyed Finlay, who was sporting heavy swelling over his eye.

WINNER: Finlay in 7:00. Good singles match. This was a good step for Ryder working with Finlay, who works well in his role of enhancing younger talent as the mid-card measuring stick. Ryder continues to look more and more credible as a heel after having a few matches recently to get in his offense and show he can hang in the ring. (*3/4)

3 -- ECW champion TOMMY DREAMER & CHRISTIAN vs. JACK SWAGGER & MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas)

Dreamer took an early beating from Swagger and Henry. Striker made a Notorious B.I.G. reference and Mathews shot back that he was popular in the late '90s, suggesting Striker needs updated material. Christian then tagged in and dumped Swagger to the floor. Christian landed a splash on the floor for another "E-C-Dub" chant from the ringside fans. Cut to break with Christian in control.

Back from break, Christian and Swagger were battling, then Dreamer tagged in and hung Swagger upside down in the corner. Dreamer wanted an E-C-W basement dropkick and he connected. Henry then jumped Dreamer from behind with the ref occupied with Christian, allowing Swagger to take control. Swags and Henry then exchanged tags wearing down Dreamer.

Match continued with Henry brick-walling Dreamer, then Dreamer broke free on Swagger to tag in Christian. Henry also tagged in and Christian tried to knock him off his feet. It took a missile dropkick to get Henry on the mat for a two count. Christian then tried a sunset flip, but Swagger blind-tagged in for Henry. Swagger tried a gutwrench on Christian, but Christian countered with a roll-up for a two count. Christian then hit the Killswitch on Swagger, but Atlas put Swagger's foot under the bottom rope to prevent a three count. Dreamer took out Atlas on the floor, but Henry squashed Christian into the ringpost. Henry rolled Christian back into the ring and Swagger hit the gutwrench powerbomb on Christian for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Swagger flashed a grin to the hard camera with blood coming off his lip. In the background, Henry gave Dreamer a World's Strongest Slam. He then grabbed Swagger and gave him a World's Strongest Slam for good measure. Don't ever blind tag into a match! Henry walked off in full control going into Sunday for the ECW Title.

WINNERS: Swagger & Henry in 13:00. Fine main event to set up the ECW Title match on Sunday. Predictable set-up with Henry in control to make it seem like Dreamer's in jeopardy of losing the title on Sunday. Swagger continues to look impressive as usual each week. Christian continues to be a top babyface on ECW, but not in a position to be a star on the show. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 26 2009, 11:11 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33092.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EVAN BOURNE

Swagger instantly took control with a waistlock to work over the ribs. Bourne avoided a running boot and landed a kick strike, but Swagger clotheslined him hard over the top rope to the floor. Bourne was folded up like an accordion on the floor going to break.

Back from break, Bourne was crying out in pain as Swagger had him in another rear waistlock on the mat. Striker and Mathews talked up the five-way ECW Title match on Sunday with Striker providing some fuzzy math to put ECW champion Tommy Dreamer in jeopardy and increase the chances of a title change. Two tools in the toolbox to attempt to sell a PPV - champ in jeopardy and good chance of a title change. Swagger tried to charge Bourne in the corner, but Bourne moved and busted out a nice run-off-the-second-rope kick strike. He followed with a springboard double knee smash on the floor, continuing the great offensive display. Mach moved up top and Swagger tossed Bourne halfway across the ring with an overhead suplex. He tried to follow with his gutwrench powerbomb finisher, but Bourne countered mid-air with a head scissors. Bourne then tried the Shooting Star Press, but Swagger moved and clotheslined Bourne hard from behind. Swagger followed with the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 9:00. Excellent singles match. Swagger is going to make a lot of money for himself and WWE down the line when he's put in a position to main event PPVs. Bourne had plenty of offense to look credible with the taped ribs being his "out" for the loss. (**1/2)

2 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JIMMY WANG YANG

Ziggler scored with a nice overhead suplex early on for a two count. Jim Ross called him Rudely Perfect. Ziggler settled into a side headlock to ground Yang, who came back with a great dropkick. Yang started a comeback and hit a roundhouse kick before going up top for a fully-extended cross-body block. Yang tried a corner move, most likely his trademark moonsault, but Dolph crotched him. Dolph then hit his finisher, a leaping reverse DDT, for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Dolph Ziggler in 3:00. Fine match. Good action to get over Dolph's personality. Slow and steady build for the character. Eventually, he could evolve into a main eventer, but right now, he's in that Zack Ryder category of a mid-card heel with a cocky gimmick. (*)

3 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. MVP vs. MATT HARDY -- United States Title match

Hardy played the heel monkey in the middle taking a right hand from Kofi, then a right hand from MVP, and repeat to the delight of the crowd. MVP and Kofi then double suplexed Hardy after spinning him around a few times. Kofi made the cover, but MVP shoved him away. Kofi and MVP had some discussion on trying to get rid of Hardy so they could battle, but Hardy shoved Kofi into MVP to knock MVP to the floor.

Hardy slingshot Kofi throat-first across the top rope and made a cover, but MVP broke it up from the outside. MVP then tried covering Hardy, but Kofi broke it up by kicking Hardy in the gut. Cut to break.

Back from break, Hardy landed an elbow drop on Kofi for a two count. Hardy then took a reverse backstabber with Kofi driving his knees into Hardy's gut. MVP broke up a pin, then MVP and Kofi had another stand-off. Kofi leap frogged MVP several times before hitting a leaping clothesline. He circled around the ring to hit the Boom Boom leg drop, but Hardy yanked him to the floor from the outside. Hardy dropped Kofi across the guardrail before returning to the ring to battle MVP.

Hardy took control and went up top for an elbow smash to the top of the head. He danced around the ring to hit the Twist of Fate, but MVP blocked and fired off a round of closed fists. MVP knocked down Hardy, then dropped the Ballin' elbow drop for a two count. Kofi then yanked MVP to the floor and gave Hardy a Boom Boom leg drop, but MVP broke up the pin from the floor. MVP and Kofi had a great nearfall/counter exchange before Hardy interjected with the Side Effect on MVP for a two count.

Kofi suddenly blasted Hardy with a pendulum kick out of the corner and hit a top rope cross-body splash for a two count. Kofi then ran into a big Chono boot out of the corner from MVP, but Hardy hit the Twist of Fate on MVP. Hardy made the cover, but MVP kicked out just in time. Kofi then blocked the ToF from Hardy and spun him around for Hardy to take the Trouble in Paradise buzzsaw kick. Kofi with the pin on Hardy for the win. After they replayed highspots of the match, Cole and Lawler gave one final plug for The Bash with Kofi celebrating to close the show.

WINNER: Kofi in 15:00 to retain the U.S. Title. Excellent match for a three-way that doesn't follow traditional one-on-one match-ups. All three men worked hard and kept the action going with nearfalls and counters building to the finish. Kofi was in enough jeopardy throughout the match to keep viewers interested in a potential title switch. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2009, 09:28 am
TNA Impact! Results: 6-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33094.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- BRUTUS MAGNUS vs. BROTHER RAY- NEW YORK CITY STREET FIGHT

They still have Magnus’ video on the wall during his entrance talking about him as a modern-day gladiator. Ray attacked Brutus during the Brit’s entrance and once they made it into the ring, the bell rang to start things. Ray quickly threw him back over the top and to the outside. Into the crowd went Magnus via Ray, but Brutus raked the face of the ECW legend to turn things around. Double axe-handle off the stairs. Magnus was thrown into the wall with all the TNA ads. Ray began to look under the ring and brought out a table. He set it up in the ring, but then the other members of the Invasion, as well as Kiyoshi came out. Spinebuster by Rob Terry as Sheik Abdul Bashir slowly walked to the ring. Brother Devon came out with a chair and cleared the ring. 3D on Kiyoshi. Don West said the ref has called this a no-contest.

WINNER: No-contest, at about 3:00. Made sense for 3D to want their revenge on the Invasion for their role in the title change on Sunday.

2- ABYSS vs. KEVIN NASH

Match was joined in progress out of break, with Nash pelting Abyss in the mid-section with knees. Abyss fought back, but was clotheslined down. Big splash in the corner from Abyss, but Nash got an elbow up on the second one. The battle spilled to the outside, where Nash retrieved a chair. Abyss avoided it and Abyss punched away then bounced Nash’s head off the steel guard-rail. Abyss brought the chair into the ring and set it up between the turnbuckles in the corner. Big boot by Nash before Abyss could utilize the chair. Nash got the chair and while the ref tried to get Nash to put it down, Dr. Stevie came into the ring and tased Abyss to the mat. Straps down for Big Sexy, then he made the easy pin.

WINNER: Nash, at 4:03 shown. Fine for what it was.

3- DAFFNEY vs. TAYLOR WILDE- KNOCKOUTS MATCH OF 10,000 TACKS

Daffney attacked before the bell and started slapping Wilde in the chest. Daffney went for the tacks as West said Daffney reminded him of his first wife. Taylor cut her off and tried to go after the tacks herself. Daffney slammed her to the mat and pounded away at Taylor’s face. Daffney was able to retrieve the bag of tacks on the pole, but Taylor kicked her in the gut on the way down. She tried to open the tacks, but Daffney raked her eyes. Tenay said Dr. Stevie and Abyss were banned from ringside for this match. Daffney spread the tacks in the ring and grabbed Taylor by the hair. Taylor fought out of a suplex attempt and then so did Daffney. Taylor was close to falling into the tacks, but she ended up slamming Daffney into them.

WINNER: Wilde, at 2:48. Why waste a tack stipulation in such a short match?

4- SCOTT STEINER vs. ROBERT ROODE

Steiner slugged away on Roode in the corner to start. Neck snap by Roode with Steiner seated on the mat. Steiner suckered Roode in and tossed him out of the ring. Roode’s face met the steel of the barrier and ring steps. Belly-to-belly overhead suplex by Steiner for a two-count. Clothesline and elbow-drop, then the push-ups for Steiner. More choking of Roode. Roode got caught in a bear-hug, but Robert clapped out of it. Successive clotheslines, then a flying forearm from Roode. To the second rope, Blockbuster by Roode for two. Steiner blocked a fisherman suplex with a face-buster for a near-fall. He went for a Steiner Recliner, but Roode fought it. Steiner with a backslide, and he registered the pinfall.

WINNER: Steiner, at 5:25. Your usual Steiner match, but I liked the ending.

5- BOOKER T. vs. JAMES STORM

West noted this was the first one-on-one match between these two. Booker missed a side kick and Storm fought back. Storm got elbowed down by Booker after he almost ran past the elbow that Booker stuck out. Storm skinned the cat and he worked over Booker, but Book hung him out to dry stomach-first over the top rope. Booker took down Storm for a two-count. Axe kick missed and Storm punched away at the skull of Booker. Neck-breaker got him a two-count. Suplex by one-half of the TNA tag champs. Storm mounted the corner and punched to ten on Booker. Sharmell grabbed the beer bottle Storm brought to the ring, gave it too Booker, and Booker smashed Storm over the head with it. Looks like Earl Hebner may have caught some of the shattered bottle in the face.

WINNER: Storm, by DQ, at 4:04.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2009, 01:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33124.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- R-TRUTH vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Truth, angry from Shelton’s comments, was quite aggressive. After whipping Shelton into the ropes, Benjamin fled the ring before Truth could do any more damage. JR and Todd Grisham questioned whether Benjamin actually graduated the top of his class. Benjamin caught Truth with a knee to the gut as Truth tried to get back into the ring. Jumping side kick from Truth. Benjamin landed a Samoan drop on Truth, who was wearing one white glove in the ring. A little eerie, considering the timing of Michael Jackson passing away yesterday. Truth got knocked to ringside as the show went to break.

When the show returned, Benjamin had Truth in a rest-hold. He choked Truth in the middle rope and continued his assault. Truth connected with a few punches, but Shelton hit a back-body drop to take the former K-Kwik to the mat. Sidewalk slam into a back-breaker by Benjamin. Rear waist-lock applied by the Gold Standard as Truth once again attempted to break out of it. I wonder when the last time was that Truth had a singles match that got this much time. Benjamin took his time to suplex Truth, allowing Truth to block the move. He went over the back and hit a side Russian leg-sweep (has anyone seen a front Russian leg sweep? Or back Russian leg-sweep?). Roll-up got two for the North Carolina native. Truth landed right on Shelton’s shoulder, but Truth was powerslammed and was on the receiving end of a two-count. German suplex into a pin for two by Benjamin. Shelton missed a kick and Truth hit his corkscrew forearm for the win.

WINNER: Truth, at 11:20. I liked that better as part of his finishing sequence where he ended things with the axe kick. Grisham said Truth calls it “The Lie Detector.” Surprising result here.

2- ALICIA FOX & MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MELINA & GAIL KIM

Fox and Melina began the match. Interesting roll-up from Melina for one. Running boot to the face of A. Fox. She tagged out to McCool. McCool kicked Melina out of the corner and Melina feigned catching it right in the face. Referee (name redacted) checked on her and held McCool back. Running knee from Michelle as she continued to try and take Melina down a notch before their PPV match. Russian leg-sweep from McCool for a near-fal as Melina screamed in pain. Fox, who is being mentored by McCool, applied a head-lock. She stretched the lower back of Melina. Melina finally fought back and made the tag to Gail Kim. Kim hit a pair of clotheslines and brought Fox out to the apron. Cross-body from the top got two. Kim nailed McCool, who was attempting to come in. McCool made a blind tag and as Kim was working on Fox, and she snuck in and hit the Faith Breaker (after awkwardly trying to position Kim into it).

WINNERS: McCool and Fox, at 5:13. Boy, Kim has really become a non-factor in the division quite quickly.

3- JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK

Both men shook hands prior to the match. Clean break in the corner from Morrison. I wonder if the announcers will mention their feud over the ECW Championship. Head-scissors applied by Punk on the mat. Morrison got out and arm-dragged the champion down as things started slowly, indicating a longer match. JR dissected what the fans were thinking when they were booing Punk in previous weeks. After some chain wrestling, Punk missed a kick and Morrison countered with one of his own. Punk was driven hard chest-first into the buckle, but Morrison missed a spring-board and Punk slammed him to the canvas. Jumping heel kick by Punk, then a knee in the corner and a bulldog for two. He set Morrison up for a GTS, but Morrison fought out. Overhead suplex with a bridge, but Morrison kicked out at two. At this point, the show went to break.

JR noted that Punk was working on Morrison’s head and neck during the commercial break. Punk applied a bit of a head-scissor, and then once again after Morrison got out and Punk put him back down. “C.M Punk” chant, which was met with a few boos. With Morrison on the apron, Punk tried to sunset flip him to the outside. Morrison kicked Punk in the throat, and Punk then tripped him, landing Morrison back-first on the apron. Morrison then came back with a moonsault. He threw Punk back into the ring and got a two-count. Dropsault by Morrison as he built momentum in the match. Punk grabbed Morrison’s leg on a running knee attempt and turned it into a half-crab. That was so smooth, a strength of both men’s in-ring work. Morrison jumped over the top rope and onto Punk, but C.M. caught him for the GTS. Morrison got out and hit the Flying Chuck for a very near-fall. Wow that was close. He set Punk up for Starship Pain, but Punk nailed him on the back. Off the top, he hit a reverse suplex for only two. He grasped Morrison for the GTS, but Morrison rolled Punk up for two. Counter and Punk got two, then Morrison turned that into another roll-up for the win.

WINNER: Morrison, at 16:09. Superb match. Good win for Morrison and a good sign that he’s in for a big push sooner rather than later. I liked the finishing sequence as well and how he won it. JR’s announcing gave it a big-match feel, too.

4- JEFF HARDY & REY MYSTERIO vs. CHRIS JERICHO & EDGE- STEEL CAGE MATCH

Punk clapped for Hardy when he came out. Jeff leaped off Rey’s back and onto Edge within the first minute. Right after, they went to break.

Edge was in there with Rey upon return and Rey head-scissored Edge into position for the 619. Instead though, Rey climbed up Edge’s back and tried to climb over the top. Edge caught him, but Rey jumped on him for a two-count. Edge took control when Hardy came in and he back-dropped him into the fence. Jericho came in and got to Hardy, but things were turned on their head when Rey came in and he got the best of Jericho. A double-team sent Edge’s head into Jericho’s crotch as Jericho sat on the top rope. Hurricanrana by Rey for two on Jericho. Jericho tossed Rey face-first into the steel cage. Both men were down as the camera focused on Punk heading to break.

Rey was getting flattened by the heels and Jericho worked to keep him away from Jeff. Head-scissors by Mysterio on Edge after Edge whipped him into the turnbuckle. He made the tag before Rey could, and Jericho cut off his attempt to tag Hardy. Mysterio and Jericho found themselves battling on the top rope. Mysterio elbowed him down but Jericho dropkicked Rey as he came off the top. Again, Edge came in to halt Mysterio’s momentum. He sent Rey’s head into the steel fencing, but Rey ended up planting Edge with a DDT. Jericho came in and shouted at Rey about taking that mask off forever. Jericho tossed Rey up onto the cage and Rey climbed to the top. Jericho realized his mistake fast enough to stop Rey. Both men made tags and Hardy worked over Edge to quicken the pace. Edge went for a spear on Hardy, but Jeff moved and the Rated R Superstar speared Punk. Whisper in the Wind on Edge, but the ref was still down. He finally came to and registered a near-fall. Jeff wasn’t happy with what he perceived as a slow count. It was, but only because Punk was injured. Edge took Rey out, but a Twist of Fate was blocked, Hardy turned his attention to Punk for a brief second and that cost him: Edge hit the spear and got the pinfall.

WINNERS: Edge & Jericho, at 19:50. A formula tag match, only inside a cage. There wasn’t a lot of climbing. I don’t know if they announced it and I missed it, but I wasn’t sure if both men or just one man needed to climb out for the win.

Punk got the mic after the match and told the fans to give a round of applause for the number one contender to his title, a man who fought his heart out tonight, Jeff Hardy. JR wasn’t sure what to make of that, other than detecting a hint of sarcasm.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 29 2009, 01:16 pm
WWE The Bash PPV Results: 6-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_33162.shtml)

1 -- ECW champion TOMMY DREAMER vs. CHRISTIAN vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. MARK HENRY (w/Tony Atlas) vs. FINLAY -- ECW Title match -- Scramble match

Neither man took control in the opening segment of the match, then Finlay came in to join the action. Swagger scored a pinfall on Finlay at 6:00 and he became the current ECW champion. Out fourth was incumbent ECW champion Tommy Dreamer came out. He needs to score a pinfall or submission to "retain" the title. Dreamer went right after Swagger, but the match moved to the floor where Swagger sent Dreamer into the announce table. Meanwhile, Finlay was selling an eye injury from earlier in the week. Finlay took Swagger back into the ring and he dropped Swagger with the Celtic Cross. Finlay put a knee into Swagger's throat to score a pinfall to become the new ECW champion. Christian and Dreamer then battled up top before Swagger interjected with a hard clothesline on Dreamer. Swagger wanted a top rope gut wrench, but Christian blocked. They held pose as the countdown came down to Mark Henry coming out last. Henry then grappled Swagger and Christian to double suplex them off the top rope into Dreamer. Sweet spot. Henry then pinned Dreamer to become the new ECW champion.

With four minutes left on the clock, Henry was knocked to the floor. Christian then tried to roll up Finlay, but Finlay escaped. Men started flying to the outside before Henry teased a big splash off the top rope, but Swagger threw him to the mat. Swagger then pinned Henry to become new champ with 2:20 left on the clock. Finlay and Dreamer then dumped Henry into the ring steps on the floor. Back in the ring, Christian hit the Killswitch on Dreamer, but Dreamer broke up a pin and pinned Christian following a Dreamer DDT. Dreamer new champ.

One minute left. Tons of pin attempts. Tons of pinfall break ups. Henry back in the ring at 0:45. Dreamer with a DDT on Henry, then he covered Henry for no reason. Down to ten seconds. Christian tried a leap-over sunset flip, but no dice. Time expired and Dreamer wins. Crowd had no idea who won the match in the fracas, then Dreamer's music hit and the crowd popped for him still champ.

WINNER: Dreamer in 17:00. Definitely not a full 20 minutes, as they cut corners on the timing, but a decent match. Crowd seemed a bit lost near the end, so there wasn't a "flurry of emotion" in the building, but a good conclusion. Match needed more time to truly feel like a big deal for the match format, but it was fine. (**)

2 -- IC champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Intercontinental Title match -- Rey's mask on the line

Really enjoy Jericho starting the match by berating Rey. "Come on, 619!" Jericho ran into a high boot early on before taking a head scissors to the floor. Very quick pace and already feels like they're at 5:00 less than one minute into the match. Rey tried a baseball slide kick on the floor, but Jericho cut him off with a whip into the guardrail. The pace quickened with both men exchanging control in the ring, including Rey hitting an amazing Lucha spot with a double springboard into a moonsault for a two count. Haven't seen a wrestler pull that off since Chris Hero working out before a PWG show. Jericho then cut off Rey again and stomped him down in the corner to wear down Rey. Jericho then slapped on the Walls of Jericho at 10:00 and the crowd implored Rey to hit the ropes for a break. Hard cam shaking. Awesome. Rey escaped (to some boos in the crowd) before trying to hit the 619, but Jericho blocked.

Jericho and Rey went up top and Rey wanted a top-rope huracanrana, but Jericho blocked with a mid-air powerbomb. He tried to put his feet on the ropes for additional leverage on a pin, but Rey kicked out. Jericho tried to follow with a lionsault, but Rey moved and followed up with a huracanrana for a two count. I love Rey vs. Jericho. So great three PPVs in a row. Rey then dialed up the 619, but Jericho blocked with that big spinning backbreaker, only to have Rey hit a DDT for a close two count. Jericho then came back with a codebreaker, but he didn't make an immediate pin, allowing Rey time to kick out. Jericho sold disbelief with the ref.

At 15:00, Jericho and Rey battled up top again. Jericho teased ripping the mask off, but Rey shoved Jericho down. Rey checked the mask, then double-foot dropkicked Jericho off the top rope into the 619. Rey connected, then he wanted a springboard finish, but Jericho countered mid-air with the Walls of Jericho right in the center of the ring. Crowd alive and hot. Hard cam shaking again. Rey teased tapping out, but he rolled underneath Jericho and flipped over him. Jericho trapped Rey, but Rey rolled him through. Pin exchange. No pin. Jericho then ripped off the mask, but Rey had a mask underneath. Oh snap! Rey then hit the 619 with Jericho confused and Rey followed with the Springboard Splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio in 18:00 to capture the IC Title. Oh, so so awesome. Rey wins the series 2-1 on the last three PPVs, but they need another match. Turn it into a Best-of-Seven or book a 60-minute Iron Man Match or anything to get more mileage out of this program. Rey and Jericho have such great chemistry in the ring and they involved the crowd at a very high level. Great match. (****1/2)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) -- No DQ match

Match moved to the floor early on where Dolph tried drop kicking Khali off his feet, but Khali came back with a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Dolph tried to introduce a chair into the ring, but Khali slapped it into Dolph's face. Khali wanted the Big Chop on Dolph, but Kane's music hit out of nowhere. Kane's back. Kane distracted Khali, which allowed Dolph to chop Khali down with chair shots. Dolph ran away, then Kane picked up a chair and cracked it over Khali's back. He then blasted Khali with repeated chair shots to the body. Crowd went from stunned to cheering Kane. "Why has Kane assaulted Great Khali?" Ross asked. Here we go with a new Big Man program on Smackdown. Ziggler then pinned Khali after Kane left the ring.

WINNER: Dolph Ziggler at 5:05. Fine. Dolph gets a win, but focus is the future Kane vs. Khali storyline with Kane returning to TV for the first time in several weeks. (*)

4 -- Unified tag team champions CARLITO & PRIMO COLON vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES vs. EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO -- Unified tag title match

Before the match could start, Teddy Long's music hit. Long said this match will now be a Triple Threat tag team match. Cody was not happy. Cue up Edge's theme music. Edge came out on stage. And his partner... Chris Jericho. Kill two birds with one stone. Jericho came out and smirked at Long as Cole said Long caved to pressure. Edge and Jericho slowly made their way to the ring looking very confident. That was quickly erased when the original teams dumped Edge and Jericho to the floor before the bell sounded.

Sounded like a light "We want Christian" chant early on as the Colons battled Legacy while Smackdown's main eventers waited on the apron. Edge finally tagged himself into the match on an oblivious DiBiase, but DiBiase quickly tagged himself back in to keep it Legacy vs. Colons. Lawler picked up the "Legacy as mirror images of Orton" talk as the fans chanted for Edge. Not quite a bizarro crowd tonight, but they're definitely into the show. Cody suddenly set up Primo for Homicide's Cop Killer finisher, but he maintained the hold for a submission. Edge had enough and pulled Primo off Cody to break up the hold. DiBiase then tagged in and went to work on Primo. Primo then dumped DiBiase to the floor and crawled across the ring to tag in Carlito. Cody also took a tag and took a springboard cannonball dive from Carlito. Cody had to wait 18 years for Carlito to set up a springboard elbow, then the action broke down. Jericho hit the codebreaker on Primo, then Carlito dumped Jericho to the floor. Edge then tagged in on Cody after Carlito hit the backstabber on Cody. Carlito didn't realize it. He tried pinning Cody, but ref said Cody's not legal. Carlito turned around and took the spear from Edge. Edge covered Carlito and scored the pin to capture the tag titles.

WINNERS: Edge & Jericho at 9:40 to capture the Unified tag titles. Edge and Jericho worked about 30 seconds in the match, but Edge being the "ultimate opportunist" won the match. New tag champs over on Smackdown, but now they can be on Raw and/or ECW to save the Raw brand from the doldrums. More than one way to skin a cat. (**)

5 -- Women's champion MELINA vs. MICHELLE McCOOL (w/Alicia Fox) -- Women's Title match

McCool dominated early on against the babyface champion. She worked the leg over for a while before wrapping Melina around the ringpost while Alicia looked on with encouragement. Melina then came back, but McCool took out the knee again. Melina blocked a top rope move, then had a pin, but Alicia put McCool's foot on the bottom rope to block a pin. Melina then dropkicked Alicia through the ropes, but it served as a distraction to allow McCool to hit the Styles Clash on Melina and roll her over for the pin and the win. New women's champ.

WINNER: Michelle McCool at 6:40 to capture the Women's Title. Fine showcase match for the Women's division, but the crowd used it as an opportunity to take a breather. McCool as champ has potential, depending on whether they line up some more opponents beside Melina. (*1/2)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 29 2009, 01:17 pm
6 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. JEFF HARDY -- World Title match

Punk wanted the Go 2 Sleep early in the match, but Hardy countered with a back slide for a two count. Hardy then dumped Punk to the floor and came over the top with a slingshot plancha. Hardy then tried a running leg splash off the ring steps, but Punk moved and Hardy ate the guardrail. Hardy could have been counted out, but Punk re-started the ten count with a smirk, then grabbed some more rest as Hardy made it back in the ring at nine. Punk started a deliberate offensive attack, but missed with a leg drop from the second rope. Hardy followed right up with the Whisper in the Wind, but Punk kicked out. Hardy then started an offensive flurry and hit a double foot dropkick to the chest for a two count. Hardy tried to follow with a top rope finish, but Punk rolled to the outside. Punk then turned around and took a dive off the apron from Hardy, who adjusted his attack.

At 10:00, the action returned to the ring where Punk blocked Hardy's lift-up kick in the corner into a G2S attempt, but Hardy blocked, only to have Punk hit a high knee and bulldog combo for a two count. Punk landed a series of jabs, but Hardy ducked and nailed an RKO. He ripped off his shirt and went for the Swanton up top, but Punk casually did a sit-up to move out of harm's way. Hardy then blocked Punk's offense and hit the Twist of Fate. He then went up top and nailed the Swanton Bomb in the corner. Punk was out, Hardy made the cover, and he scored the pin. Ref counted a three, but he suddenly waved it off as Punk's foot appeared to "break the plane" of the bottom rope to get a rope break. Hardy's music stopped and the ref said the match must continue.

Crowd with heavy boos before going with a "Hardy, Hardy" chant. Hardy quickly tried a Twist of Fate, but Punk countered with a G2S attempt. Hardy elbowed out, then Punk sold an eye injury. Ref held Hardy back as he checked on Punk. Hardy wanted a piece of Punk, but Punk continued to sell the eye. He then reared back and kicked the ref right in the back while still selling "impairment." Punk continued to act like he didn't know what he did as the ref called for a DQ. Hardy, stunned, simply held his head in disbelief. Ref confirmed the finish to a big "bulls---" chant from the crowd, which really bought into the angle as Punk continued to sell the eye injury.

WINNER: Hardy via DQ in 14:00, Punk retains World Title. Perfect booking, just like I wrote about with Punk retaining the title by the skin of his teeth and with questionable motives. Great way to continue the Punk tweener program. Crowd was very involved in the storyline, which was a good sign. Punk was great. Hardy was great. All-around solid booking to continue building frustration for Hardy and building Punk as an illegitimate tweener champion. (***1/2)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ

Both men went to neutral corners ala a boxing/MMA fight before the bell sounded. Cena then opened up with a leg trip and he adjusted his knee pads. Another leg trip and Miz was flustered. Miz finally get the best of Cena in a cat & mouse game in and out of the ring, then he started an attack on Cena back in the ring. Lawler lamented that if Miz wins, he'll brag forever and "Twitter" everyone about his win. Cena then made a comeback at 5:00 and set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle combo of moves. Cena connected with the 5NS, then wanted the FU and he connected. Cena stared down at Miz instead of making a cover, then he slapped on the STFU in center ring. Miz tapped out after a one second struggle. Cena kinda looked down at Miz like no big deal. Announcers tried to sell that Miz was "game for most of the match-up," but Cena won. Afterward, Cena did the Victoria spot of kicking imaginary dirt onto Miz.

WINNER: Cena at 5:40. Decisive win for Cena despite a few minutes of offense for Miz. Good news is Miz was in a semi-main event PPV slot. Bad news was Miz didn't put up a fight at the end. Key for Miz will be getting his heat back on TV tomorrow night. (*1/2)

8 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. TRIPLE H -- WWE Title match -- Three Stages of Hell match

Orton quickly went for the left knee and wanted to wrap it around the ringpost, but Hunter slipped out and sent Orton's momentum into the ringpost with Orton eating the post. Hunter teased the Pedigree, but Orton dropped down to one knee and punched the injured knee. Orton then began his focused attack on the knee. Orton teased the RKO, but Hunter shoved off and hit a spinebuster. Match moved to the floor. Poor Matt Striker in the background has been a spectator by himself for two hours with Josh Mathews backstage. Suddenly, Triple H pulled out a chair and blasted Orton with a chair shot to cause a DQ. *** Orton 1, Hunter 0 at 4:55*** Hunter, down one fall, started blasting away on Orton with the chair. Now it's a Falls Count Anywhere in Fall Two. Lawler followed the logic of Hunter sacrificing one fall in order to beat the crap out of Orton to get the second fall. On cue, Hunter hit the Pedigree on the floor and pinned Orton to earn the second fall. *** Orton 1, Hunter 1 at 6:20***

A stretcher was brought down to ringside. Hunter easily placed Orton's limp body on the stretcher and he wheeled Orton up the entrance ramp. He came close to the yellow line, but Orton came to life and jumped off the stretcher to blast Hunter in the knee. Orton then took out the left knee as Hunter gingerly walked down the entrance ramp. Match moved to the ringside area where Orton crotched Hunter across the guardrail. Security held back front row fans from interfering. Would have helped at the Astros game today where a fan cost the Astros a run and the game. Got that off my chest... match turned into a TNA-style brawl through the crowd. Hunter then clotheslined Orton over the guardrail to the ringside area. Hunter landed a straight right hand and Orton fell hard to the ground, but he pulled back the guardrail while on the floor and whipped Hunter into the exposed railing. A non-PG-friendly "Holy S---" whisper from a fan on the front row made air as Orton beat on Hunter. Orton put Hunter on the stretcher, but Hunter came to life. Orton cut him off, though, with a whip into the ring steps.

At 13:00, the match returned to the ring with Orton introducing ring steps into the ring. Classic "Roadrunner circumvents the Coyote" spot with Hunter turned a ring step smash into a drop toe hold sending Orton face-first into the steps. Hunter then bashed (get it?) the steps into Orton's face. He tried to drag Orton onto the stretcher and succeeded. Hunter tried to wheel Orton up the ramp to the yellow line, but Orton kicked Hunter in the head. Hunter then hopped on the stretcher and punched him several times as they wheeled backward down the ramp together. Eventually, the stretcher fell off the ramp and they both fell to the ground in an unintentional comedy spot. Pretty cool ride. Orton sold mass pain to the back, but he got up and gave Hunter the classic Orton horizontal DDT off the stretcher into the ground. That was just not right.

Orton wanted The Punt, but Hunter moved and Orton airballed Hunter's head. Hunter then wanted the Pedigree on the floor, but Orton back body dropped Hunter onto the stretcher. Orton slowly tried to wheel Hunter up the ramp, but Hunter got up about ten feet before the line. Orton then stalked Hunter for the RKO, but Hunter shoved Orton into the HD video scoreboard. Hunter followed with a Pedigree onto the stage. Yellow line marks the spot. Hunter crawled over the stretcher, which was just a few feet from the line. He put Orton's dead weight on the stretcher, then tried to push it across, but Cody Rhodes showed up at the last second to block Hunter. Cody then attacked Hunter, but Hunter chucked him into the HD lights. Orton was still on the stretcher, but DiBiase suddenly made the save one foot away from the yellow line.

Cody and Ted then jumped Hunter and stomped away on him. They picked up Hunter and put him on the stretcher with a ton of effort while Orton was KO'ed, but Hunter fought back. The pack of wild dogs tried to subdue Hunter, who kept putting up a fight. Suddenly, Hunter had a sledgehammer. He stared blasting folks left and right, but he didn't see a Punt to the gut from Orton. Orton then smashed Hunter with a piece from the stage. He flung Hunter onto the stretcher, then spun Hunter across the yellow line to win the match and retain the WWE Title.

WINNER: Orton at 21:30 to retain the WWE Title. First two falls were quick to get to the final fall, which wasn't a traditional title match, but featured some good drama, action, and body blows to give fans their money's worth. Felt just like the match they had on free TV six days ago, so you didn't miss anything if you watched the free show on Raw. WWE booking the red herrings during the show with Cody and Ted worked well to create more drama on whether they would eventually help Orton retain the title. Sure hope this is the end of Orton vs. Hunter, but I highly doubt it since Hunter didn't lose clean and he stood tall post-match. Solid gimmick match overall. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 30 2009, 11:32 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/font_color_770000_KELLER_S_TAKE_font_11/article_33204.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Triple H beat MVP. Lawler wondered who Triple H was standing after what he went through at the PPV last night. MVP dominated early as Triple H sold an injured quad on his left leg, which was wrapped. Triple H avoided a Playmaker at 4:00 and snapped into a Pedigree for the clean win. (3/4*)

(2) Edge & Chris Jericho defeated Primo & Carlito Colon for the Unified Tag Team Titles in 8:00. A minute into the match, the Colons knocked the heel duo to the floor, then they cut to an early break. [c] Back from the break the heels were in control, tagging in and out against Primo. Carlito got a hot-tag at 7:00 and went on sustained offense. He hit Edge with his Back Stabber finisher for a near fall, with Jericho breaking it up with a great save (not one of those whimpy stomps but a full diving tackle). Primo knocked Jericho to the floor. Carlito then gave Edge a kneelift. As Carlito set up a springboard on the middle rope, it appeared he got knocked off balance by Primo. He looked angrily down at Primo. The cameras didn't pick up what happened, and the announcers seemed to miss it entirely, and then Edge gave Carlito a spear for the win. The replay showed that Jericho shoved Primo into the ropes, throwing off Carlito. Carlito had some words for Primo afterward, although surely he'll see the video replay and forgive his brother. Right? (*1/2)

(3) John Cena pinned The Miz in 14:00. Cole asked Lawler if Miz could have learned anything about his loss last night. Lawler said he had to have learned what not to do, comparing it to the lesson people learn when they put their hand on a hot stove. Cena stared down Miz, then got a crowd pop when he took off his t-shirt. Miz scored early with a kneelift, forearm, chop, and kick. Lawler and Cole talked about how Miz did dominate Cena early in the match last night. Cena came back right away with an armdrag, bodyslam, and elbowdrop. Cena settled into a chinlock at 2:00. Miz escaped and applied a side headlock. Lawler said Cena got in people's faces early in his career just as Miz does now, implying Miz might be on Cena's path. Cena went for a bulldog at 4:00, but Miz escaped and leaped over the top rope and snapped Cena's neck-first over the top rope. He followed with a neckbreaker and a near fall. [c] Back from the break, Miz had Cena in a sleeper at 8:00. Lawler again said Miz more than held his own last night most of the match, and perhaps that gave him the confidence necessary to avoid defeat again. Miz blocked an Attitude Adjustment and dropped Cena hard to the mat and scored two consecutive two count near falls. Miz took time to trash-talk Cena. Cena made a brief comeback, but Miz countered with a sleeper. Cena made his faces, and then began to fade. He dropped to one knee and then all the way to the mat. Cena made a comeback by powering out and hitting a series of shoulder blocks and a release side suplex. He signaled for his You Can't See Me routine. He hit Miz with a legdrop off the ropes to the back of his neck and then applied the STF for another clean tapout win. Cole confirmed that sets up Cena vs. Triple H next week. (**3/4)

(4) Mickie James defeated Kelly Kelly and Beth Phoenix and Rose Mendez when she pinned Mendez at 5:00 to earn a shot at Maryse's Divas Title at Night of the Champions. Maryse joined in on commentary. She gave Cole a hard time about how be pronounces her name. He As Phoenix punched Mickie, Rosa stepped in to help and it seemed to upset Phoenix. Mickie avoided a Phoenix suplex and then applied an inverted sleeper. Mendez then put Mickie in a sleeper. Kelly jumped on Mendez's back with her own sleeper. Phoenix escaped and shoved the other three into the corner turnbuckle. Kelly got a near fall on Phoenix after a sunset flip. Mickie moved in and went for a pin, but Mendez broke that up with a backslide of her own. Maryse indicated she wanted to face Kelly if she had a choice, almost to the point of seeming to have a crush on her. Mickie eventually finished Mendez with a DDT. Mickie and Maryse had a staredown afterward, then she hugged Kelly afterward. (*1/4)

(5) The Big Show fought Kofi Kingston to a double countout at 3:00. Kofi showed his usual good fighting spirit. Show, though, overpowered him. He knocked him to the floor to defend against being mounted and punched in the corner. Show pressed Kofi, practically poking his finger up his butt in the process, but Kofi slipped out and shoved Show into the ringpost. The ref got to the ten count before either could get back into the ring. A fan held up a sign that said, "Big Slow." Show frowned and walked to the back. Short, but fine. (1/2*)

(6a) Randy Orton pinned Evan Bourne in 4:00. Bourne was revealed to be new to the Raw brand. Lawler talked up Bourne's style. Cole said Orton is so used to wrestling Triple H (tell us about it) that he may not know what to make of the pacing of Bourne. Bourne got in early offense including flying moves and kicks leading to a near fall. Orton gave Bourne a jaw-jacker out of nowhere. Bourne made a comeback and went on a flurry of rapid-moves and Orton seemed slowed by the effects of the PPV beating he took at the PPV. Bourne flew off the top rope. Lawler said Bourne is fun to watch. Bourne set up a top rope move, but Orton got up and knocked him off balance; Bourne straddled the top rope. Orton then gave Bourne a flying bulldog for the win. (*)

(6b) Randy Orton defeated Jack Swagger via countout. Swagger outwrestled Orton early by charging in and then powerslamming him. Swagger did his signature chest pound and then seemed to consider the moment. He then walked out onto the ring apron and got intentionally counted out. He told Orton afterward he has always respected him, so on his first night on Raw (sort of), he wanted to leave a lasting impression. He shook Orton's hand, and Orton accepted it and gave him a half grin.

(6c) Mark Henry pinned Randy Orton in 4:00. Henry said he also came to Raw to make an impression. He said he respects Orton, too. He stepped onto the ring apron and let the ref count. When the ref got to five, Henry grabbed the ref's hand. Henry then began to laugh and he stepped back into the ring and waved his finger at Orton, as if to say he wasn't letting him off that easily. Orton sunk into the corner, like those guys on those Highway Patrol shows do when the cop asks if they will open their trunk for them and they have 250K worth of weed back there. Orton actually got on his knees and begged off. Henry slowly moved in and grabbed Orton by his throat and tossed him hard to the mat. Henry headbutted Orton and then soaked up some cheers. Orton tried to fight back with an RKO, but Henry shoved him away, into the ropes, and then slammed him to the mat with a powerslam. That was a big win for Henry. Do they have big plans for him?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 01 2009, 10:58 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 6-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33241.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. YOSHI TATSU

Bell sounded and Shelton went around the ring mock bowing to the crowd to apparently mock the entire Japanese culture. Shelton did a praying mantis pose to mock Yoshi, who continued to be annoyed. Shelton then did a Sumo wrestling warm-up pose while laughing at the whole ordeal. Shelton did a deep bend, then Yoshi blasted Shelton in the face with a roundhouse kick. He covered Shelton for the pin and the win. Yoshi then bowed over Shelton, who slowly tried to put the pieces back together.

WINNER: Yoshi in 2:00 with 0:05 of action. That was quite possibly the worst, dumbest segment I've seen in a while on WWE TV. Well, at least since the Santina stuff. Managed to offend an entire culture right before touring there. I just don't get WWE's booking of Shelton. It's just another step backward moving to ECW. (n/a)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. OLIVER JOHN

A graphic flashed on the screen announcing next week with a special time of Thursday at 7:00 p.m. EST. Perhaps WWE is too embarrassed to actually draw attention to when next week's ECW TV is. Sheamus took it to Oliver early on as Matt Striker talked about Sheamus not following tradition of introducing himself to the boys in the back when he arrived. Sheamus cut off a brief comeback with a big bicycle kick. He followed with a Rock Bottom with a backbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus in 3:00. Sheamus was fine in his national TV debut, but it would help if WWE actually took the time to give these guys some pre-debut vignettes to introduce them to the audience. (*)

3 -- ECW champion TOMMY DREAMER & CHRISTIAN vs. KOZLOV & WILLIAM REGAL

Christian and Regal started things off with an aggressive exchange of holds. Nice to see some physical action on the show. Dreamer and Kozlov then tagged in and Kozlov pounded Dreamer into the corner before landing body blows. Dreamer landed a kick to the chest before delivering some right hand blows. He hit a cross body block, then pulled the top rope down to send Kozlov to the floor. Christian tagged in, then flew through the ropes with a dropkick. He teased a top rope splash, but Regal ran over to guard Kozlov and prevent a highspot. Cut to break.

Back from break, Regal had Dreamer in a reverse chinlock wearing down the champ. Kozlov then tagged in and landed multiple elbow smashes, mixing in grunts for added effect. Christian took a hot tag at 8:00 and cleaned house on Regal before going to the second rope for a missile dropkick. Christian tried a sunset flip pin, but Regal kicked out. Regal then cut Christian off with a slingshot smash across the top rope focused on the shoulder. Kozlov then tagged in and started focusing on the left shoulder. Regal and Kozlov exchanged tags to work over Christian's shoulder for a while.

[Q5 -- over-run]

Dreamer finally took a hot tag at 13:00 and came in hot on Kozlov with a flying shoulder tackle. Dreamer teased a DDT on Kozlov, but opted for a neckbreaker for a two count. Meanwhile, Regal and Christian battled on the outside with Regal throwing Christian into the ring steps. Regal then tagged himself in and Dreamer flung him into the ring. Dreamer with a small package, but Regal kicked out. Dreamer missed with a corner smash and ate the ringpost. Regal followed with an exploder suplex, but Kozlov blind-tagged in as Regal was setting up a finish. Kozlov then entered the ring and gave Dreamer the Iron Curtain slam for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Regal clapped for Kozlov, who smiled his Kozlov smile. Kozlov saluted himself, then Regal walked over to Kozlov for a handshake. Regal not showing any frustration with Kozlov stealing the pin from him. A minute or two after the finish, Striker apparently got a bug in his ear to remind viewers that Kozlov just pinned the ECW champion. Hint hint. Regal and Kozlov shared another few celebration moments as Regal looked a little too longingly at Kozlov to close the show.

WINNERS: Kozlov & Regal in 15:00. Good, physical match-up. Had some rough moments throughout, but it was nice to see some actual wrestling action on the show. Apparently Regal killed Christian on the outside before the finish, as Christian completely disappeared at the end. Dreamer vs. Kozlov coming soon. Great. So concludes a very rough episode of ECW TV. Lots of growing pains coming up and they didn't even bother to verbally plug next week's show on Thursday night. Too embarrassed to point that out, apparently. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 03 2009, 11:40 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33300.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK

Crowd with a "Santino, Santino" chant and Santino started blushing trying to downplay the cheers. So great. Kendrick then kicked Santino in the gut and put him on the mat, which drew boos. Santino quickly countered with a series of takedowns into headlocks, showing off his hidden judo background. Santino started talking to an inanimate object, so Kendrick kicked him in the gut. Santino then tried to skin the cat back into the ring, but Kendrick yanked his right leg across the top rope. Kendrick went Mexican-style and started working the right. Kendrick started calling Santino a loser, a nobody, a never-will be, which only made Santino ah-so-ah-mad. He Hulked up on Kendrick with a round of hip tosses before walking right into a kick to the face. Kendrick had a cover, but Santino casually grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Kendrick tried a roll-up, but Santino flipped him over and trapped the shoulders for a pin as Kendrick tried to wiggle out.

Post-match: Santino then did his big "trumpet and dancing" celebration. He said today was his day. He tried to shake Kendrick's hand to adhere to the Code of Honor, but Kendrick wanted to slap him. Santino moved away and simply said, "I try. But he too angry." Santino then worked out the leg work on the way to the back with a victory in his pocket.

WINNER: Santino in 4:00. Santino is so great in his babyface role. Kendrick was just playing the enhancement talent, which is apparently his permanent role on Raw. (*1/4)

2 -- CHARLIE HAAS vs. JOHN MORRISON

Match moved to the floor in the opening minute with Morrison trying to drag Haas up the ring steps, only to have Haas drop him abs-first across the steps with a leg sweep. Haas then dragged Morrison back into the ring to start working on the six-pack. Morrison suddenly nailed a head-stand kick to the head followed by a leaping dropsault into a running kick for a two count. Sweet three-move combo. Haas then cut him off with a knee to the abs again. Haas missed with a kick, then Morrison hit a spinning neckbreaker. He followed right up with the Starship Pain springboard corkscrew plancha for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Morrison in 4:00. Haas had a decent showing enhancing Morrison, who looked very sharp with his offensive display. Ross and Grisham had ample time to talk up Morrison, which was the key to the match. Morrison is slowly connecting with the audience as a babyface with his flashy moves that the fans are recognizing more and more. (*1/2)

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. TAYLOR REKS

Hot start with a back-and-forth exchange until Ryder blasted him with repeat kicks to the body before hitting a Samoa Joe-like kick to the face in the corner. I miss the Face Wash. Ryder then settled into a side headlock, but Reks slipped out and hit a neckbreaker. They had a forearm exchange before Reks landed an elbow smash and face-into-the-mat slam. Reks tried a move from the second rope, but Ryder cut him off with a kick to the knee. Ryder followed with the Zack Attack - reverse Fameasser - for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 4:00. Another brief four-minute match, but really nice action. Ryder continues to "grow into his shoes" as a legit heel with a mean streak. He's at that Jack Swagger make-or-break point where he needs to put on a suit, step into the ring, and cut a ten-minute promo to see if he can handle the big time. Reks was solid in his debut. Curious he would lose in his first match, though. (*1/2)

4 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. Unified tag champion EDGE -- non-title match

Bell sounded and Edge shoved Punk in the corner. Punk was pissed off that Edge went after the "injured" eye, so he chased Edge back into a corner. Ross tried to play up Punk as a credible man by saying Punk apologized to the official he "accidentally" kicked in the back during The Bash after the show. Grisham interjected that Hardy would see it differently. Great storyline.

Edge landed a forearm to the eye, then Punk dumped him to the apron and kicked his legs out from under him. Punk then sent Edge to the floor with a baseball slide kick. Punk followed on the floor, took Edge back into the ring, then Edge blasted him in the "injured eye." Ref held Edge back and checked on Punk, who covered his eye and tried to shake it off. Edge wasn't buying it. Cut to break.

Back from break, Edge was working over Punk. Ross said he'd bet a rack of ribs that Jeff Hardy is watching the match intently. Grisham said it must be weird for Jeff to root for Edge after their series of recent matches. Nice interjection of history. Punk came back with a standing enziguiri on Edge for a two count, then he checked the eye again. Punk attempted a Pedigree or butterfly suplex, but Edge cut him off with a DDT for a two count. Punk came back with an attempted springboard clothesline, but Edge ducked, only to take a powerslam from Punk.

Edge regrouped in the corner and Punk charged him with a running knee in the corner. Edge blocked a bulldog, but Punk teased the G2S. Edge raked the eyes to break the hold, prompting Punk to run into the corner to sell an eye injury. Edge then attacked Punk in the corner and the ref held him back. Punk suddenly waved his arms and said he can't continue because he can't see. Edge was stunned, but he was announced as the winner. Mixed cheers for Edge, who laughed and pointed at Punk.

WINNER: Edge via Punk not being able to continue in 12:00. Solid TV match. Very intriguing with the slow babyface turn for Edge (via Punk) and Punk's slow progression as a heel, but still remaining tweener. A few great exchanges in this one before the No Mas finish. If they really want to add fuel to the fire without turning Punk full heel, they can have him plead Wellness Policy combined with the Nigel-as-ROH-champ storyline that he's not going to risk his health for the sake of the fans's enjoyment and protect his interest as champ by only defending every 30 days. It wouldn't be a heel line because it's smart business for his personal career, but the fans wouldn't want to hear it. Lots and lots and lots of potential for this storyline before Punk turns full-fledged heel. Keeping him as a tweener trying to explain himself to unappreciative fans should make for great TV over the next few weeks and months. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 03 2009, 10:47 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33302.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- CODY DEANER vs. AMAZING RED

Deaner was a bit too aggressive early on, and he paid for it. He wore jeans with kneepads, but no shirt. He tried to work the arm, but Red came back with a few arm-drags. Head-scissor take-over that sent Deaner to the outside to consult with his woman, ODB. Red did a twisting dive over the top onto Deaner. Back in the ring for a side-roll that got two. A few more kicks from Red, but he was turned inside-out by a clothesline. A cover got two for Deaner and ODB bounced around at ringside. Right hands from Deaner in the corner on Red. I think he’s got duct tape rather than athletic tape on his wrists. Whip into the buckle by Red, then a spin kick that got a near-fall. Red went to the top, but Deaner knocked him off as he was pointing to ODB. Deaner decided to go to the top, much to the chagrin of ODB. He put on his ball cap, but missed a diving headbutt. Red came back with the “Red Eye,” a sort of inverted DDT, for the win.

WINNER: Red, at 4:18. Pretty much a comedy match, but at least Red got a win.

2- ERIC YOUNG vs. RHINO

Jesse Neal came to the ring with Rhino. Young attacked Rhino as soon as the Michigan native ran into the ring. Rhino soon was on the offense, but an Irish whip was reversed hard by Young, who then caught Rhino with a clothesline. Right hand and some choking by Young in the corner. EY settled into a rest-hold about 1:30 in. Tenay said Foley would be back next week to confront Jarrett. Wasn’t that supposed to be resolved, according to Jarrett, a few weeks ago? During the match, Young attacked Jesse on the outside, throwing him head-first into the guardrail. He was very deliberate in getting back in the ring. Rhino fought back and hit Young with a flying clothesline. Shoulder into the gut of Young in the corner, then a spinebuster. Neal got on the apron as Rhino was in a pin. Rhino confronted him, but Young shoved him into Neal, and rolled him up for the win.

WINNER: Young, at 3:37. This Rhino-Neal thing is really advancing at a much quicker pace than it needs to. Rhino should slowly get frustrated with him over a longer period of time, but instead, Neal has wrestled one match and was backstage once last week, and now, not long after training him, the story is that Rhino is already unhappy with him.

3- VELVET SKY & ANGELINA LOVE vs. AWESOME KONG & TARA

Madison Rayne had a giant poster of Victory Road with the Beautiful People on it with her as she accompanied her team to the ring. Apparently, Tara is short for “Tarantula,” and she brought one in a box to the ring with her. West talked about texting back-and-forth with Velvet at four or five in the morning about Tara. That was pretty funny. Tara worked over Velvet with a few arm-drags. Tara had Velvet by the arm and Awesome Kong made the tag, not allowing Sky to get away. Finally, after sending her into her corner, Love tagged in. Shots to the throat and head by Kong, then she tossed Love into the corner. Tara came back in and Madison got on the apron to distract the ref while Velvet interfered. That rarely causes a DQ anyway, so was the distraction even necessary? Sky and Love double-teamed Tara in the ring, then Velvet dropped an elbow that got two. Hair toss into the heel corner by Velvet, and Love came back in, but they did a double face-drop. Kong made the tag and Velvet’s offense had no effect. She took out Love too. Awesome Bomb coming up, but Love got involved, as did Tara. Love got sent into the post on the outside while Kong hit the Implant Buster for the win.

WINNERS: Kong & Tara, at 4:38. A good way to continue the Beautiful People vs. Tara feud.

4- TEAM 3D vs. SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T- WINNERS GET A SHOT AT TNA TAG TITLES AT VICTORY ROAD

The four men got into a shoving match before the bell rang. Steiner kicked away at Brother Ray in the corner, but Bubba splashed him in the opposite corner. Beer Money was not having any of West’s ***-kissing on commentary. Steiner suplexed Ray down. Ray came back with a scoop slam, but missed an elbowdrop. Steiner did the same. Ray with a sidewalk slam for two. Booker kicked Devon in the back when Steiner had the ref’s attention. Booker came in and superkicked Devon in the corner. Booker held Devon, allowing Steiner to kick away at his mid-section and upper body. Overhead suplex by Steiner on Devon, which looked pretty impressive. Side-kick by Booker on Devon. Clothesline by Devon coming off the ropes and both men were down. Tagged made to Brother Ray. Hip-toss for Booker, Bubba Bomb for Steiner. Booker came back with the Bookend for two. Sheik Abdul Bashir and Kiyoshi, dressed nicely, came out and started brawling with Beer Money. Back in the ring, Team 3D hit the 3D on Booker. Sharmell got in the ring to distract the ref a Ray went for the pin. Steiner missed a clothesline and Ray slammed him, while Devon went to the top and hit the headbutt to the groin. The crowd chanted “get the tables” and Devon did so. The British Invasion came down and as Rob Terry distracted the ref, Doug Williams took out Devon on the outside and Brutus Magnus hit Brother Ray with the briefcase and he draped Booker’s arm over Ray to get the victory for the Mafia.

WINNERS: Booker & Steiner, at 7:33. Four veterans who still know how to put together a match, even though they certainly aren’t in their prime.

5- JEFF JARRETT & A.J. STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE & SAMOA JOE- TNA WORLD TITLE MATCH

JB handled ring introductions for this one. Jarrett and Angle went at it to start, and Angle quickly shrugged off a Stroke. The two traded offense and Styles tagged in. Angle raked the face. What incentive is there to tag out here, when you need to be in to win the title, since winning as a team means nothing here? Joe came in and got dropkicked down, then Angle came in and Styles and Jarrett traded off punching him. Angle was sent to ringside as the faces hit a double-clothesline on Joe.

Styles was on the mat out of break and Joe had just made a tag to Angle. They seemed to be focusing on the knee of Styles. Both Angle and Styles were down, but Joe knocked Jarrett off the apron and no one was there when A.J. went for the tag. Joe came in and kinda toyed with Styles. Headbutt, but Styles came back with a moonsault that turned into an inverted DDT, at the same time he hooked Angle and gave him a regular DDT. Jarrett tried to get on the apron, but Styles got locked in a submission by Joe. Styles broke out and Pele kicked Joe, then made the tag. Pedigree (called a “double-arm DDT” by Tenay), then Joe came in to give Angle the advantage again. Angle Slam turned into a DDT by Double J. He fought off Joe and Jarrett looked like he was going to hit the Stroke off the top. Instead, Joe hit the Muscle Buster on Jarrett, but Styles took out Joe and, inadvertently, the referee. Jarrett was able to finally hit the Stroke, but the ref was out. Jeff went for the guitar but by then, the ref was up and he took the guitar away. At that point, Angle locked in the ankle-lock. He tried to make the tag to Styles, but Joe pulled him off the apron. Angle grape-vined the leg of Jarrett. Jarrett didn’t tap, but passed out from the pain. Slick Johnson raised and dropped his arm three times, then called for the bell.

WINNERS: Joe & Angle, at 12:50.

The Mafia celebrated in the ring following the match. Styles took the title and threatened the Mafia with it, causing them again to flee to ringside. He attacked Joe, then the MEM came back in and attacked Styles. In a split-screen, Morgan was beating up Daniels backstage. As Nash was about to hit Styles with the Legends Title, the lights went out. When they came back on, Sting was in the ring with a baseball bat. He cleaned house on the Mafia with the bat. He grabbed the belt, held it above his head, then the lights went out again. Sting and the belt were nowhere to be seen when the lights came back on.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 04 2009, 11:38 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33324.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- RICKY ORTIZ vs. FINLAY

Ortiz got the dreaded “currently in the ring” treatment. He also had the mic after Finlay made his entrance. He asked if Finlay was upset about losing his little buddy (a few months late there, Rick). He asked why Finlay was so negative, and told him to drop the shillaleigh, lose the frown and rally up. Finlay responded by slapping Ortiz.

The bell rang and Finlay got a headbutt to the gut and was then clotheslined over the top rope. Ortiz tripped him up though as he was heading back into the ring. The men continued to fight on the outside and Ortiz powerslammed him out there. Belly-to-back suplex by Ortiz once they were back in the ring and that got two. He missed a running shoulder to the gut in the corner though and Finlay snuck up with a roll-up for two. Couple clotheslines, then a rolling Samoan drop. Finlay got the momentum, but his lower back wouldn’t allow him to pick Ortiz back up. Ortiz tried to back-drop him, but Finlay hooked him in the Celtic Cross, then dropped him and got the pin.

WINNER: Finlay, at 2:26. Just a showcase match for Finlay, but if they really see something in Ortiz, they should continue to put him with guys like Finlay.

2- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. R-TRUTH

When Ziggler made his entrance, they showed clips of his match with Khali at The Bash. When Truth rapped to the ring, they showed two girls in the crowd with a Punk t-shirt and Jeff Hardy arm-bands and face-paint. They must feel quite conflicted. Truth was quick to get on the offensive until Ziggler got into the ropes, causing a break. He then took advantage of it by attacking Truth when the ref was backing him away. He suplexed Truth over his head, then applied a rear chin-lock. He took Truth down by the hair when the former K-Kwik was trying to make his comeback. Ziggler hit a number of elbowdrops on Truth. He then put Truth in a full-nelson. Truth began to come back, utilizing right hands and a back elbow to do the job. Powerslam got him a two-count. Kick to the jaw by Truth, but Ziggler held onto the bottom rope, then managed to choke Truth on the top. Ziggler hit his finisher and got the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 3:06. This win means a bit more for Ziggler since Truth has been picking up some victories on the show.

3- REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE

JR noted the past run-ins these two have had. A few kicks early on didn’t faze the big man and he pounded away on Rey with kicks and punches. Rey kicked out of a chin-lock, but couldn’t capitalize. Rey took out Kane’s knee, but couldn’t hit the 619. Kane tried a chokeslam, but Rey got out. Kane threw him into the corner and did some damage there as the show went to break.

Kane was still in control out of break. Hard whip into the buckle by Kane and Rey took a powder to the outside. He slammed Rey’s back against the ring post. Mysterio barely made it in before the ten count. The match began to drag a bit with Kane’s methodical offense being used. Another comeback attempt by Rey fell short when Kane elbowed him down. After escaping a back-breaker, Rey hit a springboard seated senton. After a near-fall, he landed a seated dropkick for two. Rey went to the top, but Kane met him with an uppercut on the way down. Rey avoided a chokeslam and after an enziguiri, hit the 619. He tried a springboard hurricanrana, but couldn’t hit it. Kane chokeslammed Rey, then pinned him.

WINNER: Kane, at 11:13. JR made some excuses for Rey after the match, but I don’t think this loss to Kane hurt Rey much.

Kane grabbed Rey for another chokeslam after the match, but Great Khali’s music hit before he could squash Rey. Man, he had time to chokeslam him and still got out of the ring before Khali and his chair could make it to the ring. Kane fled through the crowd before Khali could use the chair.

4- THE HART DYNASTY vs. CRYME TYME

JTG took Tyson Kidd down and did some mat work. He took Kidd down face-first to the mat, and Kidd went to the outside. He came back in and made the tag, a tag that JTG did not see. David Hart Smith used his strength to keep JTG grounded. Some double-teaming by the heels kept JTG in their corner. After missing a splash in the corner, Kidd got rolled up for two. But he was soon right back on offense. What’s with Kidd and the “yip’s” every time he does a move? Both men were down, and both were able to make tags. Shad took out Kidd on the apron, then went to work on Smith. He planted Smith with a forward suplex, but Kidd broke up a pin. Cryme Tyme double-teamed Smith, then Shad hit his finisher on Smith to get the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme, at 4:52. Surprising result. I’m guess we’ll see some six-person tags with Cryme Tyme and Eve against all three members of the Hart Dynasty.

5- LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. MELINA & MARIA

Layla tried to take it to Melina, but Melina got a kick in to the face. Layla looked rough taking shots to the head off the turnbuckle. Maria came in and nailed Layla with a few knees to the gut. Layla kicked Maria into a split position and tagged McCool in. She went right to work on the left leg of Maria. They should pull a “50 First Dates” with Maria, where she suffers a concussion and can’t remember Ziggler, so he has to keep introducing himself to her everytime they meet. Maria finally made the tag to Melina, but McCool got out of there after taking a minimal amount of Melina’s offense. Melina turned a neckbreaker attempt by Layla into her finisher (complete with primal scream) and registered the pin.

WINNERS: Melina & Maria, at 3:16. Pretty ugly at times, but it wasn’t a complete disaster.

6- EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO vs. JEFF HARDY & C.M. PUNK

Punk and Edge began things slowly, with Edge working the arm of the World Champion. No problems on the first tag from Punk to Hardy, nor on the second. Even some teamwork shown by the two. Jericho finally tagged and was arm-dragged down. Punk slammed Jericho right in position for Hardy to land his legdrop off the second rope. Jericho took advantage of Punk with a pull of the hair and tagged in Edge. Punk set Hardy up to leap off of him into the corner, taking out Jericho and Edge. After Edge was clotheslined over the top by Punk, the two faces had a stare-down in the ring, clearly still uneasy with each other.

Edge was going toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring with Jeff Hardy, and Hardy ended up getting the better of Edge for the moment at least, with an arm-drag. In the corner, Punk began holding his eye in pain, and the crowd jeered. Jericho tagged in and aggressively went after Hardy and Punk. As he was jawing with Punk in the corner, outside the ring, Edge punched Hardy, sending him into the barricade. Hardy started to come back on Jericho at the 11:00 mark. But Jericho again tossed him to ringside. Punk got the crowd into it to help out their man Jeff Hardy. As Hardy came back in the ring, he crawled to his corner, where Punk was out of position, again dealing with his eye. Hardy hit Whisper in the Wind even without tagging Punk. Edge made the tag first, but he was hit with the Twist of Fate. Hardy quickly went over and slapped Punk in the match. Knee in the corner, then a running bulldog from Punk. He got Edge up for the GTS, but Edge got out and drove Punk to the canvas on the back of his head. Jericho choked Punk in the corner when the ref’s back was turned, dealing with Edge. Jericho came in and kicked Punk right in the ribs. Jericho dug into Punk’s eye with his fist. Punk tried to fight back but they ended up double-clotheslining each other. Hardy got the crowd into the match for Punk. As Punk went for the tag, Hardy comically oversold a fictitious eye injury, falling to ringside and everything. Jericho tried to lock in the Walls as Hardy kept squirming on the ground. Punk got Jericho up for the GTS, but Jericho made a blind tag, and Edge came in with a spear to pin the World Champion.

WINNERS: Edge & Jericho, at 16:15.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 07 2009, 11:00 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33383.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Unified tag champions EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO vs. CARLITO & PRIMO COLON -- non-title match

Match started with the champs cornering Carlito before Primo finally took a hot tag at 4:00. He busted out plenty of aerial moves before hitting a springboard crossbody block on Edge for a two count. Primo went for a springboard moonsault, but Edge cut him off and trapped Carlito in the ropes to land successive punches. Carlito helped Primo out of the ropes, then Edge bumped Carlito when Primo moved. Carlito argued with the ref, then Jericho and Edge combined for a codebreaker and spear combo on Primo for the pin and the win.

Edge was hobbling on that bad knee post-match. Meanwhile, Carlito was upset. Hotheaded Carlito tried to collect himself in the ring, then he suddenly grabbed Primo and chucked him into the ringpost. Announcers said Carlito snapped as he beat the crap out of Primo on the floor. A little tough brotherly love. Carlito flung Primo across the announce table, then he walked up the stage pouting while the fans booed. Carlito grabbed his hair on stage as Primo sold an arm injury on the floor.

WINNERS: Edge & Jericho in 5:00. Okay tag match. Ending was off, but it set up the ending they wanted with Carlito snapping on Primo. We'll see where this leads to. (3/4*)

2 -- Divas champion MARYSE & ALICIA FOX vs. MICKIE JAMES & GAIL KIM

Gail took control early working on Alicia. She snapped off a head scissors and continued her assault on Alicia before Alicia cheated to gain the advantage. Alicia and Maryse then began working on Gail in their corner. Gail tried to make a tag, but Maryse cut her off. Maryse and Gail battled, then Gail landed a sort-of falling away boot to the chin for the pin and the win. Afterward, Mickie stood tall in the ring over Maryse on the floor to continue building to the title match.

WINNERS: Gail & Mickie in 4:00. Not much to this. Surprising how little action Mickie had in the match, but they seem to wanted to give Gail some exposure her first night back on Raw. (1/2*)

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. CODY RHODES

Cody shook off an early attack, then tried to go up top for a cross-body splash, but Henry easily caught him and slammed him hard to the mat. Cody rolled to the floor to catch his breath, then he started to leave the ring to be counted out. Cody clutched his ribs and the ref reached a ten count. Henry wins.

WINNER: Mark Henry via count-out in 2:00. Set-up for more Cody-DiBiase interaction. Match was just there to set up the follow-up. (n/a)

4 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. TED DIBIASE, JR.

DiBiase was firmly in control after two months. He ripped off a nice arm drag, then hit a dropkick that sent Orton to the floor to recover. DiBiase screamed down at him to come beat him. Cut to break with Orton recovering.

Back from break, Orton was in control after slamming DiBiase into the ring steps during the break. Orton kicked DiBiase across the chest, then stood over him shaking his head in disgust. Orton began his methodical Orton Stomp routine, but he missed with a knee drop and DiBiase rolled him up from behind for a two count. Orton cut him off right away, though, to prevent a comeback.

Orton began toying with DiBiase by landing a kick, then he set him up for the patented horizontal DDT across the middle rope after taking a long time to think about what he was going to do to his protege. Orton made a cover, but DiBiase kicked out, upsetting Orton even more. Vintage Orton was Cole's call after a knee drop connected. Orton then settled into a patented chinlock. He tried to hit an RKO moments later, but DiBiase blocked with a sunset flip for a two count. DiBiase then executed a nice powerslam for a two count. Lawler told him not to get frustrated, then DiBiase attempted the Dream Street legsweep, but Orton slipped under DiBiase's grip and nailed the RKO in center ring. Orton with the pin for the win. He then lingered over DiBiase to rub in the victory. Orton accepted his title belt, then left the ring as DiBiase recovered in the ring. Orton looked back into the ring and saluted him as DiBiase began shaking from the mouth in anger over losing to Orton.

WINNER: Orton in 11:00. Good storyline to the match. I like that they're effectively testing the water on a babyface program for DiBiase. Like last week against Evan Bourne, Orton was able to give a lot of offense to a younger opponent to make the other wrestler look credible before pulling out a win. DiBiase had a good showing with a higher level of intensity throughout the match. (**)

5 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. EVAN BOURNE

Bourne tried an enziguiri kick early, but Kofi ducked and slapped on a half-Boston crab. Bourne managed to grab the bottom rope for a break. Kofi then grabbed a side headlock and grounded Bourne. Good opportunity for Kofi to show some more offense than just the aerial moves. Kofi then sprung off the second rope with a flying knee smash on Bourne followed by an elevated dropkick. Kofi tried a Stinger Splash, but Bourne blocked with a knee to the gun. Bourne quickly hopped to the top rope and followed with a Shooting Star Press on Kofi's face for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 3:00. Just not much chemistry between Bourne and Kofi. They seemed to be trying to do the same moves at the same time. I couldn't help but think about Kevin Nash's "vanilla midgets" line when watching Show squash Kofi and Bourne. Not sure what the point of this is because Kofi and Bourne weren't helped at all, but I'm trying to reserve judgment.

6 -- TRIPLE H vs. JOHN CENA -- #1 contender match

Bell sounded and Cole said they're not the best of friends, but have respect for each other. They went nose-to-nose to start. Hunter turned his head for a "Hogan at WM18 reaction." Cena turned his head for a "Rock at WM18 reaction." They locked up and Cena landed an arm drag that upset Hunter. They had another stare down and Hunter did all the talking. They backed away and then locked up again. Hunter landed a series of right hands, but Cena fired back. Boo/Yay for Cena/Hunter. Cena then dumped Hunter to the floor with a clothesline over the top rope. Cena tried to follow with an FU on the floor, but Hunter dumped him on the ground. They cut to break.

Back from break, Hunter was in control. Fans were on Hunter's side as he worked over Cena and the announcers discussed the punishment both men have taken the past few weeks going back to Extreme Rules and The Bash. Cena made his comeback at 10:00 and set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle to a round of boos. Cena tried to follow with the FU, but Hunter blocked with a flurry of right hands. Hunter followed with a facebuster across his knee, then Cena ran into a spinebuster. Hunter wanted a Pedigree, but Cena blocked, only to have Hunter slap on a sleeper hold. Cena did the "slowly power out of the Masterlock" spot to escape the sleeper, then he slapped on a sleeper of his own. Hunter started to fade, but Hunter super powered out and slammed Cena to the mat.

Ref began a ten count on both men as they tried to pull themselves up to their feet. Hunter with a right. Cena with a right. Hunter with a right. Yay. Cena with a right. Boo. Cena with another right. Boo. After trading bombs, Cena fired off the ropes and hit a facebuster. He tried to follow with the STFU, but Hunter grabbed the bottom rope. Hunter then tried to finish him off, then Cena tried the FU. Neither man could gain an extended advantage during the series of counters and reversals. Suddenly, Cody and Ted ran into the ring and jumped both men, prompting the match to be thrown out. Cena and Hunter then fought them out of the ring and stared off against each other.

WINNER: No Contest in 18:00. Excellent match. The initial feeling-out process was well done and the ending counters/reversals/crowd involvement sequences were well done. One of Hunter's better non-gimmick matches this year. Cena was good too engaging the crowd even if they were clear on him being the heel in the match. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 10 2009, 11:19 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 7-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33462.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) vs. KATIE LEA BURCHILL

Katie aggressive early on working over Nikki's back. Nikki came back with an arm drag, but Katie dumped her hard over the top rope to the floor. Brie then snuck into the ring with the ref's back turned and she nailed Katie with a facebuster. The old twin switcheroo. Pin and the win. Afterward, Nikki and Brie celebrated the "victory."

WINNER: Bellas in 3:00.

2 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. YOSHI TATSU

Shelton rammed Yoshi hard into the corner turnbuckle to start things off, showing good intensity. Yoshi then knocked him on his back side and landed a double-foot dropkick to the chest. He tried to follow with a splash, but Shelton got his knees up to block. Shelton then began working over the mid-section leading to a commercial.

Shelton was still in control after the break. He put Yoshi in a Camel Clutch to work the lower back after working the mid-section pre-break. Crowd with a "Yoshi" chant as Yoshi fought out of the hold and kicked Shelton in the chest. He followed with more kick strikes before avoiding a corner plash. He followed with a springboard roundhouse kick to the face for a close two count. Pace quickening here. Shelton then blocked a move and nailed an overhead release suplex. Both men exchanged wild kick attempts, then Shelton nailed the Pay Dirt in mid-air for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton in 11:00. Nice finish to the match. Yoshi showed good charisma and athleticism in his first real national TV match. Shelton should be back on track for a legit push...hopefully. (**)

3 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. JACK MERIDOL

I know you're waiting for the Ahmed Johnson comparison, but we're going to avoid the Pearl River Plunge. Zeke pounded Jack into the corner before kinda flinging him into the ropes. Jack not doing his job well as an enhancement talent. Or Zeke has some rust to knock off. Ezekiel finished off Jack with a throw-down Rock Bottom for the pin and the win. Post-match: Zeke

WINNER: Ezekiel in 2:00. Rough squash, even with an extra week to post-produce. Have to start somewhere with Zeke back on WWE TV, though. (n/a)

4 -- CHRISTIAN vs. KOZLOV -- #1 contender's match

Kozlov tried to bully Christian before dumping him to the outside. Approaching the top of the hour here. WWE competing against its own show? That has to be a first. ECW #1 contender match continues with Superstars starting on WGN. Dreamer said he was scouting his potential opponents as Mathews said he's sweating watching the match. Kozlov nailed a power move, but Christian kicked out. The top turnbuckle was exposed and Christian avoided a corner splash, sending Kozlov head-first into the steel. Christian followed right up with the Killswitch for the pin and the win. Dreamer said he considered it an upset. He then talked up returning to Philadelphia as the ECW champion for Night of Champions. Show ended with Christian standing tall on the entrance ramp.

WINNER: Christian in 5:00 to become #1 contender. Short match, most likely to prevent any channel-flipping with Kozlov settled in a long rest hold. Dreamer was solid on commentary trying to establish the importance of the match and plant some seeds for the TV build-up the next two weeks leading to the PPV. Match was just there. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 10 2009, 11:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33464.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RICKY ORTIZ vs. R-TRUTH

Grisham asked Ross if he has his personal life rallied up. Ross responded his love for BBQ is what's up. Back-and-forth to start as Ross talked about Ortiz being over-bearing, especially when he's trying to enjoy catering before shows. Ortiz suddenly chucked Truth through the ropes to the floor. Lots of boos against Ortiz were piped into the broadcast going to break.

Back from break, Ortiz was working over the lower back with a half-Boston crab. He continued to work over the back with a variety of holds before stomping on his head. Grisham equated it to stomping out a cigarette on the ground. Ortiz cut off Truth's teased comeback with some nice power offense, then he cut off Truth again with a swinging sidewalk slam. Impressive. Ortiz tried the "Big O" splash, but Truth moved and started another comeback with a powerslam. Truth missed badly with an axe kick, but he followed with the spinning fist punch off the ropes. Apparently that "Lie Detector" move is one of his finishing moves now rather than a transition move. Truth with the pin and the win. Post-match: Killings smiled

WINNER: Killings in 14:00. Probably the best effort I've seen from Ortiz in the ring. He had some very sequences cutting off Truth's offensive comebacks. Truth with a good win. Ortiz looked good too. Everyone wins. (*3/4)

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. TYLER REKS

East Coast beaches vs. West Coast beaches started with Ryder ducking underneath the ropes in a classic heel move to slow down T-Reks. Some fans cat-called "Woo woo woo" as Ryder locked up and Mathews called him a tool. Striker offered a No Comment before offering the Urban Dictionary definition of a tool, only to be cut off by Mathews. They cut to break after each man had control.

Back from break, Reks was doing some talking while locked inside a chinlock. Reks tried to break free, but Ryder kicked him in the gut to regain control. Ryder went back to working the neck region with a mat-based neck-bending hold. Reks broke free after a lengthy beat down, then he countered a pin attempt into a sunset flip pin for a two count. Ryder then flung Reks stomach-first across the top rope to capitalize on the work throughout the match. Ryder followed right up with the Zack Attack finish for the pin and the win. Great post-match camera shot of an evil look on his face.

WINNER: Ryder in 12:00. Slow spots mid-way, but an overall good performance from both men. Reks seems to have good upside if they can add some more info to his character beyond he's a surfer dude. Ryder will easily be a top player on the ECW brand by the end of the year. He's on the way to being a star for this company. (**)

3 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. HORNSWOGGLE

Chavo smiled and waddled over to Horny on his knees. Lawler said the ref should be on his knees too. Hornswoggle teased a test of strength, but Chavo pushed Horny across the ring. Chavo tried to cheat and stand up, but the ref reprimanded him. Horny knocked Chavo down to his knee anyways. Hornswoggle kicked Chavo to the outside and Chavo ran around on the floor upset with the embarrassing situation. Ref yelled at Chavo, "Get on your knees!" Cue up Jack Swagger's theme, please. Chavo crawled into the ring on his knees, then he blasted Hornswoggle with a standing...er...kneeling clothesline. Chavo with a scoop slam, then he tried to remove the middle turnbuckle pad. Ref re-tied the pad, allowing Chavo to stand up and kick Hornswoggle a few times. Chavo re-positioned himself on his knees to work over Hornswoggle some more. He then busted out the Three Amigos suplexes from his knees. He tried the third, but Hornswoggle blocked and shocked everyone with a textbook suplex. Hornswoggle's top-notch wrestling skills not part of the WWE resume. Horny then climbed up top, but Chavo jumped to his feet and cut Hornswoggle. Chavo ignored the ref's commands to stay on his knees and he paid for it when Horny blocked a superplex by biting Chavo's hand. He then landed the Tadpole splash. Horny with the pin and the win as Chavo tried to wiggle out of the pin. Chavo sold anger post-match as Hornswoggle gloated about the victory.

WINNER: Hornswoggle in 5:00. Ridiculous match, but had a certain guilty pleasure entertainment value. Hornswoggle busting out the solid wrestling holds was fun, as he was a solid independent wrestler before becoming a sideshow act in WWE. Match was just shut-off-your-brain humor. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 10 2009, 11:11 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33468.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- DOUG WILLIAMS vs. HOMICIDE- X-DIVISION BRIEFCASE OPEN CHALLENGE- LADDER MATCH

It’s funny that in the first segment, Foley and Jarrett talk about how there are too many people in charge, but apparently not enough as someone overlooked Williams defending a stolen briefcase. Homicide went up the ladder after giving Williams a shot to the gut, but he didn’t get far. Homicide was thrown into the ladder, which then landed on him. Williams got his hand on the briefcase, but Homicide pushed Williams off and onto Magnus and Rob Terry on the outside. While Williams tried to get back inside, Team 3D came out and held Williams up, allowing Homicide to get the briefcase back in possibly the shortest ladder match ever.

WINNER: Homicide, at 2:03.

2- THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. BEER MONEY, INC.

This is non-title, per Dave Penzer. James Storm pulled his arm away on a Chris Sabin arm-drag attempt, which looked kinda weird. Storm then taunted him about it, I guess to show that it wasn’t a mistake. Shelley took out Storm on the outside of the ring and they double-teamed him once back in. Double clothesline, one from the front and one from behind on Storm. More double-teaming, and Slick Johnson was waving his arms, leading me to believe something illegal was going on, though he did nothing to really stop it. Roode tagged in and gave some right hands to both Guns. Spinebuster for Shelley, broken up by Sabin. All four me in there now, and the Guns got the advantage. Dropkick by Sabin into a face-buster by Shelley for two. Superkick by Storm as Booker was in full Black Snow mode. Beer Money finished the Guns off with the DWI for the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money, Inc. at 4:04. Just a clustermess, but an athletic one.

3- VELVET SKY vs. TARA

Tara came to the ring with her tarantula. Tara went right after Sky, but Sky did some choking on the mat. She pulled her hair and again and sent her face-first to the mat for two. Love was going to hit Tara with the belt, but the ref caught her before she could. Tara came back with right hands. Bodyslam by Tara, who then stalked Sky. Widow’s Peak ended it.

WINNER: Tara, at 2:33. Decisive victory over Sky.

4- ANGELINA LOVE vs. TARA- KNOCKOUTS TITLE MATCH

Love was rolled up right after the bell, then Tara got a backslide and small package for a triumvirate of near-falls. That caused Love to go to ringside and try and stop herself from having a panic attack. Rayne pulled Tara off the apron, right in the sight of now unemployed referee Rudy Charles, causing him to throw her out. Love was attacking Tara on the outside as he was doing so. Love threw Tara into the safety rail and West hilariously complained about the guy helping Tara free her foot from being stuck in the guardrail, saying fans shouldn’t be touching the TNA Superstars. Love made a few pins on Tara in the ring, to no avail. Boot to the face of the challenger for a two-count. Whip into the buckle by the champion, but she missed a charge. Tara came back with right hands (closed fists, according to West). Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Tara for two. Widow’s Peak hit and we’ve got a new Knockouts Champion.

WINNER: Tara, at 4:19. A newsworthy development, and Love losing the belt will likely continue the tension between her and Sky.

5- MATT MORGAN & KEVIN NASH vs. DANIELS & A.J. STYLES

What’s with that dumb cape Morgan is wearing? And it makes him look a bit more foolish when he can’t even take it off. Daniels unsuccessfully chopped Morgan as Nash yelled “suck on that!” when Morgan took him down. Daniels came back with a slam and then a side head-lock. Tag in to Styles as the two tried to take Morgan down. They did with a hi-low maneuver. Styles kicked away at Morgan, trying to keep him from getting back to a vertical base. It didn’t work as Morgan threw Styles into the corner and splashed him. Nash tagged in and did the crotch chop to Daniels. Oh, Nash. Styles fought back with shots to the short rib area of Nash. Both men made tags and Daniels again was forced to try to put Morgan down. He got distracted by Nash and Morgan absolutely leveled Daniels with the Carbon Footprint. Beautiful. A kick-out by Daniels after Morgan took his time covering. We got some vintage Nash offense when he tagged in. The heels worked Daniels over, preventing him from tagging A.J. Morgan did a version of the chokeslam on Daniels, sending him into the corner face-first. Morgan accidentally punched Nash and Daniels made the tag. Springboard flying forearm for two. Styles took the legs out of Morgan and jumped off his back to dropkick Nash through the ropes. Styles flipped out of a chokeslam and Pele kicked Morgan. Daniels for a BME and Styles 2/3 across the ring with an alleged frogsplash (looked more like a regular splash) for the win.

WINNERS: Styles & Daniels, at 6:33. Entertaining encounter, as Morgan looked good, as did Styles.

6- MICK FOLEY vs. JEFF JARRETT vs. KURT ANGLE

Angle went to go after Foley, but Jarrett cut him off and the two leaders of TNA double-teamed Angle. Foley did the ol’ “rub the face across the top rope” move. Eric Young pulled Jeff off Angle out of the corner, leading to him and Jeff arguing. Foley hit Jarrett when he went for Angle, but Foley came back with a Cactus clothesline on Angle over the top rope. He slammed Angle’s chest across the steel guardrail. Rake of the back by Foley. Tenay notified us that Daniels was taken to the hospital to get his ankle checked out. Foley set up Angle for more punishment on the outside, but Jarrett interfered and hit the Stroke on Foley into the steel steps.

Angle was in control of Jarrett out of break, even getting a two on a fair count by EY. Foley has been outside apparently the entire break. There’s a shocker. Scott Steiner laid out Foley again with a lead pipe without Young seeing it. Jarrett hit a Tornado DDT out of the corner for two. Angle Slam turned into a Stroke for one......then Young stopped the count. Didn’t even fake something in his eye. Foley made it back in, apparently rejuvenated with the pipe to the leg a la Mr. Burns, and went after Jarrett. Double J hit a jaw-breaker on Foley, and Jarrett got the guitar, chasing Young out of the ring. Mandible Claw with the sock by Foley, but Angle slammed Foley for two. Jarrett pulled him off and locked in a figure-four. Young held Angle’s hand to prevent him from tapping. Angle then locked in an ankle lock on Foley, who shouted “no, no, no!” and Young called for the bell anyway.

WINNER: Angle, at 9:56.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 12 2009, 09:01 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-10-29

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33502.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JEFF HARDY vs. KANE

Kane got too aggressive and Jeff low-bridged him. He then plancha’d onto Kane on the outside. Back in the ring, a clothesline didn’t budge the Big Red Machine, who then caught Hardy with an uppercut as the colorful enigma was coming off the ropes. Loud “Hardy, Hardy” chants. Twist of Fate was blocked and Kante draped Hardy across the top rope and followed it up with a boot to the face. Hardy fell to the outside as they went to break.

Kane still held the advantage out of break and hit Hardy with a low dropkick for two. He put Hardy in a rear waist-lock on the mat in an attempt to keep him grounded. Jeff worked out with a jaw-breaker, then a dropkick to the knee. Dropkick to the mid-section (I guess- always looks like he hits the groin to me), but then Kane picked Jeff up in a GTS-like move where he put the knee to the mid-section instead. With Jeff shoved gut-first under the bottom rope and into the steel post, Kane dropkicked him right into it. Kane continued to work the abdomen area of Hardy. Back-breaker got two. Kane put a stop to Hardy’s comeback (which included a weak mule kick) with a sidewalk slam. Knae to the top, but that was unsuccessful for him. Corner dropkick by Hardy- dropkicks aplenty in this one. Hardy went to the top and we got a major edit (Kane was near the buckle....then he was far away) as he jumped into a chokeslam. Then he hit a Whisper in the Wind on the other side of the ring, for two. Twist of Fate by Jeff, who then went to the top rope. C.M. Punk’s music played and he walked out to the top of the stage and looked at Hardy with one eye closed. That distracted Hardy enough for Kane to chokeslam him off the top for the win. Punk smiled at Hardy getting pinned.

WINNER: Kane, at 13:08. Well, if you like dropkicks, this was right up your alley. Kane matches don’t really excite me anymore, even with Hardy in the ring.

2- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JOHN MORRISON

They started off with some mat wrestling as JR once again pimped Ziggler’s amateur credentials. Ziggler took over with a forearm across the face and shouted that Morrison wishes he looked like him. Spinning cross-body over the top by Morrison onto Ziggler, who then choked Ziggler across the top rope. Ziggler again went after Morrison, putting his head on the outside of the ring as Morrison lay on the mat, and knee-lifting the head. Ziggler then continued his assault inside the ring. After a series of elbowdrops, Ziggler locked in a reverse chin-lock. Belly-to-back suplex by Dolph for two. Full nelson applied by the man whose theme song claims he is “perfection.” A bit of a Pele kick by Morrison (called such by Grisham) and the two traded rights. High leg kick then a running knee smash to the face by the Shaman of Sexy. Almost a reverse slam by Ziggler that sent Morrison to the mat on his stomach. Missile dropkick off the top by Morrison for two. A series of counters ended with Ziggler rolling up Morrison with the tights (using both hands!) for the three.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 6:06. I think we need a six-month moratorium on heels winning by using the tights.

3- MELINA & EVE TORRES vs. LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL

Eve and Layla started things off. Eve got a shoulderblock and a dropkick (where only one foot connected) for two. Layla tried a cross-body but Eve caught her and slammed her. Layla was sitting on the apron recovering and Eve dropkicked her to the mat in a nasty looking spill. Layla appeared OK and was back in the ring distracting the ref, allowing McCool to kick Eve right in the face. McCool tagged in and got two. She locked Eve in a head-scissors. Eve escaped and then slammed Michelle’s face off the canvas. Both ladies struggled to get to their respective corners, but both did. Melina had her way with Layla. She took Layla by the hair and sent her to the mat as well. Michelle taunted Eve from across the ring and Eve got involved, distracting the ref and allowing McCool to kick Melina in the back as she was attempting her finisher. Layla picked Melina up and put her on her shoulders. Luckily, we didn’t see what that was going to turn into as Michelle again got involved and Layla ran into her on the apron, with Melina rolling her up for the win.

WINNERS: Melina & Eve, at 4:33.

4- C.M. PUNK vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Punk, predictably kicked away at Khali, but didn’t have much success in doing so. Khali slapped Punk across the chest a la Big Show. He missed a legdrop and Punk went to the kicking well once again. Springboard clothesline took Khali down like a giant oak tree. Running knee to Khali in the corner, but couldn’t bulldog him. Khali got ready to put Punk away after a back elbow, then went for the tree slam. Punjabi Plunge put Punk down and Kane came out with a chair and with his entrance music. That got Khali’s attention. He got onto the apron as Punk was outside the ring. Ranjin Singh threw a chair to Khali and both men wielded the steel weapons in the ring. Kane finally swung and hit Khali in the shoulder. He let out a primal scream and knocked Kane’s chair out of his hand with his own fist. Kane tried to back off, but he got hit in the shoulder as well, getting sent to the outside.

WINNER: No Contest, at about 2:30. Everytime they don’t bother to give a winner, it makes the results of the matches seem less important.

5- CRYME TYME vs. THE HART DYNASTY

Apparently, the Hart Dynasty demanded this re-match. JTG was all over Tyson Kidd to start. He elbowed David Hart Smith off the apron then back-dropped Kidd over the top rope. Natalya’s interference led to Kidd knocking JTG into the commentary table. Smith tagged in and used his brute power on one-half of Cryme Tyme. JTG got back in the ring behind Smith’s back and tagged Shad. Suplex sent Smith to the mat, but things began to break down. As they did, the Hart Dynasty pulled off the win with the Hi-Low (shades of Cade & Murdoch!).

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty, at 2:54. Too short to really show off the Harts’ abilities they showed in ECW.

6- CHRIS JERICHO vs. REY MYSTERIO- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Jericho relished in the jeers after shoulderblocking Rey down. Jericho threw Mysterio under the bottom rope and of course Rey rolled at the right time and ended up on his feet. Why do heels keep doing that move? And why does JR keep acting amazed every time he sees it, as if it’s the first time? Rey was back-dropped to the apron where Jericho threw him into the ring post. They went to a break 2:30 into the match.

The show returned with Jericho dropkicking Rey out of the ring as Mysterio was lying on the mat. Mysterio recovered enough to hit an enziguri, but Jericho landed a back-breaker (“Atlantis-like Torture Rack,” according to JR) in retaliation before Rey could hit his 619. Jericho verbally taunted Rey and choked him in the middle rope. Springboard cross-body by Rey, then a bulldog for two. Jericho caught Rey on a hurricanrana attempt and turned it into a powerbomb for a near-fall. Jericho locked on the Walls (more of a Boston Crab though) but Rey was relatively close to the ropes. Instead Rey worked out of it the hard way and the two traded pinfall attempts. Mysterio missed the 619 and landed hard on the outside as a result. With just under 11:00 gone in the match, they went to the final break of the show.

Jericho had Rey in a submission move on the mat while also taunting him. Irish whip into the buckle, to which Jericho followed it up with a clothesline. Fans got behind Rey, chanting “619, 619.” That brought Mysterio back, but it ended quickly with another hard Irish whip. Spinning Muscle Buster by Jericho for two. He again stretched out the arms of Rey, working the neck and back as well. Rey kicked at the thighs of Jericho to break out. His springboard moonsault resulted in Jericho catching him and slamming him into the corner. He missed a charge though and went shoulder-first into the post. Rey broke out his offense at this point, even hitting a springboard splash for two. Jericho managed to flip Rey over his head in a powerbomb-like move that resulted in Rey going face-first into the mat. Grisham said “if Jericho was in the NFL, he’d be the league leader in interceptions.” Todd has improved on commentary, but he still comes up with some odd analogies sometimes. Rey was put in the Walls again, this time in the middle of the ring. But after about a minute, he was able to reach the ropes. Jericho tried to baseball slide Rey to take his feet out from under him. Springboard moonsault on the outside left both men down. Back in, Rey went for another springboard but Jericho met him in mid-air for a code-breaker. But it took to long for him to go for the pin, and Rey kicked out. He yelled at Rey to stay down and kicked him in the ribs. Jericho go overzealous and Rey was able to hit the 619, then his splash for the win.

WINNER: Rey, at 22:43. I’m convinced these two could have a great match in their sleep. Hard to rank it with the other three with the commercial breaks and all. But it’s right up there with them.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 14 2009, 02:38 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33571.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Six-divas bikini tag match: Wait a second, isn't this a PG show? Since when was bikini wrestling approved for kids age 5-10? I hope Bonnie Hammer is sitting by on the phone calling camera shots. Mickie had the pin on Maryse, but all six divas entered the fracas to create movement. Maryse shoved Mickie into a towel of sorts before finishing her off with the hair flip DDT for the pin and the win. Maryse vs. Mickie for the Divas Title at Night of Champions. (n/a)

(2) Primo vs. The Miz: Slow start, then Carlito showed up in street clothes with his music playing. Crowd cheered him coming out. They weren't paying attention last week. Primo tried to swat at Carlito, but Miz grabbed him from behind for a front-face Russian leg sweep for the pin and the win. Miz picks up a win. Too bad it didn't mean much. Too bad he dropped like a stone to a mid-card after-thought after the Cena program. After the match, Carlito kicked his brother, then spit apple on him. Officially back to the heel Carlito. (1/2*)

(3) Jack Swagger vs. MVP: They're already giving away this match? Swagger in new red and blue trunks like he's Kurt Angle. Not feeling the wardrobe change. MVP slapped Swagger early on, causing Swagger to bail to the outside and complain to the announcers. Back from break, Swagger was in control, then MVP came back with the Ballin' elbow drop. Cole tried to sound enthusiastic for a pin attempt that Swagger kicked out of. Swagger then sling shot MVP across the top rope leading to the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. Average singles match that I still can't believe WWE just gave away on free TV without hype. Swagger looked good taking the victory, though. (*)

(4) Mark Henry vs. Chris Jericho: Lawler said Seth Green has made this an official match-up. Thanks. Henry smashed Jericho several times before brick-walling Jericho to floor. Jericho decided he had enough and he high-tailed it up the entrance ramp to take a quick count-out. Henry wins and has a good laugh about it all. He then did the high school spirit routine of raising his arm for a cheer, then lowering his arm for silence. Not quite cupping the ear, but a fine, new development for Henry. (n/a)

(5) Hornswoggle vs. Chavo Guerrero: Doing the Superstars main event again. This time, Chavo must have one hand tied behind his back. Definitely not the Austin-McMahon ratings blockbuster during the Monday Night Wars. Lawler cued up the next Austin Powers reference with a note on Seth Green hanging out with Mini Me, which is why he booked the match. Hornswoggle channeled Rikishi for a Stink Face, but Chavo kicked him in the face. Chavo was going for the Three Amigos, but Hornswoggle countered with a small package. Chavo couldn't kick out due to the arm tied gimmick, so Hornswoggle scored the pin. Gimmick match for the kids and not much else but continued embarrassment of the Guerrero family. (n/a)

(6) Evan Bourne vs. Big Show: U.S. champ Kofi Kingston came out and was forced to re-watch Big Show smashing him and Evan Bourne last week. Kofi still feeling that pain, mon. Evan Bourne came out and the women loved him. Seth liked what he saw while taping up backstage. Big Show was ready to eat, though. New ref in there. Kofi vs. Show on Superstars this week. Bourne got tired of taking a beating, so he tried a top rope dropkick. Show wobbled, but then speared the crap out of Bourne, who landed on his neck. Show then put him in the Camel Clutch and Tie-Dye guy called for the bell. Show didn't break the hold after the victory, so Kofi hit the ring and smashed Show to the floor. Show just smiled and laughed at Kofi, who challenged him to come get some. Another ref hit the ring to check on Bourne, who sold a neck injury from the spear. (n/a)

(7) WWE champion Randy Orton & Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase, Jr. vs. John Cena & Triple H & Seth Green: Cena was in there and the fans chanted for Seth. Seth took a tag and slowly slipped into the ring and measured Cody for a right hand blow. Cody was not happy, so Seth bailed to the floor for a cat and mouse game. Seth wisely tagged out to Cena after that exchange and Cena took control, but DiBiase distracted the ref allowing Orton to sneak-attack Cena. After an extended beat down, Cena went to Hunter for a hot tag. High knee. "Vintage Triple H," said Cole. Crowd exploded as Hunter went through his routine until Legacy jumped him. All heck broke loose. Seth chilling on the apron. Orton suddenly nailed Hunter out of nowhere with an RKO.

Seth then broke up the pin to a huge crowd reaction. Orton was not happy with that. Orton stalked Seth for a kill, then he kicked him in the gut. Orton lined up Seth for The Punt, but Cena speared Orton out of nowhere. Legacy tackled Cena. Cody then bought a chair into the ring, but Hunter had a sledgehammer. Hunter cleared out Legacy, then almost accidentally blasted Cena, but Cena moved just in time. Hunter then dropped the hammer to the mat and they had a stand-off. Crowd hot with a "Seth" chant. Hunter and Cena then raised Seth's hand in victory. (Match ended in a DQ when Cody brought a chair into the ring.) Hunter raised Seth on his shoulders. Uh-oh. Thumbs up / thumbs down? Wait, can't have that when Batista is injured for the tenth time. End show with Hunter, Seth, and Cena celebrating in the ring. Very hot main event that salvaged this otherwise direction-less, pointless-at-times, frustrating show. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 15 2009, 03:13 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 7-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33608.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- CHRISTIAN vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Referee Scott Armstrong initiated a clean break following the opening lock-up. Spinning heel kick by Christian that may or may not have connected got him a two-count. I wonder what would’ve happened if it were Shelton Benjamin, not Christian, who went to TNA. And how he would’ve been received had he returned to WWE. Flying back elbow by Christian off the second rope. He went to the top, but Vladimir Kozlov’s music blared over the loudspeakers and he came out in his new get-up. Shelton kicked Christian off the top and to the outside as Kozlov walked around ringside and apparently over to the commentator’s table.

Benjamin was working Christian’s arm out of break as...oh no...Kozlov was on commentary. When Mathews introduced him, Kozlov raised his arm in acknowledgment, I guess. Knee-lift by Benjamin on Christian. Shelton continued to twist and contort the left arm of the ECW #1 Contender. Kozlov bragged that he could beat both Christian and Tommy Dreamer. Benjamin leapt to the top rope, but was pushed off and Christian dropkicked him. Both men were down following that exchange. Tornado DDT hit by Christian for only two. After a pin attempt, Benjamin tried to go back to the left arm of Christian, but couldn’t keep the arm-bar on. Benjamin again jumped from the ring to the top rope to meet Christian, with a bit more success this time, landing a one-arm DDT on Christian. Benjamin tossed Christian into the ring post shoulder-first and then hit Paydirt for the win.

WINNER: Benjamin, at 11:33. This is why no one gets over. He loses to Yoshi Tatsu, a nobody, in two seconds two weeks ago, then wins last week and beats the #1 Contender for the ECW Title clean this week. Next week, I’m sure he’ll be jobbed to Goldust or something.

2- PAUL BURCHILL vs. YOSHI TATSU

Tatsu tried to stay away from any consistent Burchill offense. Fans were immediately chanting, “Yoshi, Yoshi.” Single-leg take-down by Burchill, followed by a hard elbowdrop across the throat. Katie Lea took the opportunity, with the ref’s back turned, to slap Tatsu in the face. Roll-up by Tatsu for one, and Burchill just got angrier. Rear chin-lock by Burchill, sitting down on the lower back of Yoshi for extra effect. Looks more like a choke hold though. Yoshi flipped out and got some kicks to the body. Yoshi went for a springboard kick, but fell off the top rope. Burchill capitalized, wasting no motion in suplexing Tatsu right on the back of his head (a Saito suplex, as called by Striker). As he argued with the ref on after a two-count, Tatsu out of nowhere hit a kick to Burchill’s head, like the one he hit on Shelton. “Are you Karate Kidding me?” Striker exclaimed.

WINNER: Tatsu, at 3:35. Fine match, but I still feel Burchill is being wasted in this JTTS role.

3- GOLDUST vs. ZACK RYDER

Arm-drag by Goldust out of the gate. Looks like Goldy has new designs on his suit as well. Ryder pushed him out of the corner and took it to Ryder with shoulder-blocks. Butt-butt by Goldust and Ryder was clotheslined over the top rope. Goldust went to the top, but Ryder met him up there. Ryder brought him down throat-first over the top rope, causing Goldust to spill to ringside. Running boot to the face by Ryder in the corner, and the match was solidly his at this point. After getting thrown into the buckle, Goldust powerslammed Ryder. Vintage Goldust with the thrust to the throat from his back. To the middle rope, where he hit an elbow on Ryder for two. Ryder suckered Goldust in to the corner, then hit the Zack Attack. It was academic from there.

WINNER: Ryder, at 4:24. See my comments from the last match (though I do realize Goldust certainly doesn’t have the ceiling that Burchill does at this point). Ryder continues to grow on me.

4- SHEAMUS vs. ROMAN CORNELL

Sheamus got on the mic and talked to his opponent, calling himself the Celtic Warrior. He predicted he’d be the most dominant superstar in ECW. Striker gave background on the jobber, as he usually does. Not sure if it’s true or not though. Shoulderblock by Sheamus, then he pounded away at Cornell in the corner. Cornell came down of Sheamus’ back and got some offense in until Sheamus hit a bicycle kick. Uranage into a back-breaker by Sheamus for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 1:31. I like his finisher. The guy has a different look and he does show promise.

5- VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Loud “USA” chants from the crowd right at the opening bell. Kozlov took Dreamer down then elbowdropped him on his back. He missed a second one though. He ran into a knee in the corner, then no-sold a head-shot to the buckle. Low dropkick by Dreamer when Vlad was on his hands and knees, then a clothesline off the second rope. Kozlov picked Dreamer up and dropped him throat-first across the top rope. Headbutts to the chest of the ECW Champion, then a belly-to-belly suplex that got two. He grabbed a waist-lock on the mat. Dreamer quickly made it to his feet, but was kicked in the chest. Outside the ring, Kozlov missed a kick and hit the ring post. Dreamer capitalized in the ring with a knee-lift. Jackknife cover for two, then a leg-sweep. Tommy went to the top, but Kozlov crotched him. Dreamer shoved him off and booted him in the face, but Kozlov caught Dreamer jumping off the second rope with a headbutt to the chest. The Iron Curtain finisher from Kozlov ended it.

WINNER: Kozlov, at 3:58. So the ECW Champion and challenger for the title at the PPV lost cleanly tonight. Interesting booking.

Kozlov tried to continue the beat-down but Christian made the save. Kozlov ducked and Christian hit Dreamer, then was taken down by Kozlov. After a replay of the finish and the post-match happenings, Kozlov was shown, quite happy with his work. Dreamer and Christian writhed on the mat in pain as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2009, 11:33 am
WWE Superstars Result: 7-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33667.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Cryme Tyme (w/Eve) vs. Hart Dynasty (w/Natalya): "Everything is good in my hood," Jim Ross says to welcome us to the show. Shad exploded on D.H. Smith early on, including a special delivery of Monty Brown's Pounce on Smith. I miss Monty. Brings back nostalgic memories of Friday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. watching TNA Impact on FSN. CT in control going to break.

Back from break, Shad took a lengthy beat down after Tyson Kidd chop-blocked the knee. Kidd awesome screaming and shouting as he worked over Shad's knee. He's found a trademark "thing" that makes him stand out, which is the name of the game to get TV time in WWE. Suddenly, all heck broke loose when JTG took a hot tag. Eve and Natalya tried to get involved, but order was restored and JTG nailed Kidd with a finisher for the win. Good finish to a nice tag match. WINNERS: Cryme Tyme to set up Smackdown's six-person tag.

(2) Katie Lea Burchill vs. Brie Bella (w/Nikki Bella): Copy and paste from the ECW TV match last week where Nikki was the scheduled competitor and they pulled the switcheroo. Simple reinforcement to expose the storyline to as many eyeballs. Bellas win with a surprise roll-up on Katie Lea after the switch.

(3) U.S. champ Kofi Kingston vs. Big Show: Kofi tried to start with a flurry of kicks, but Big Show gave him a big boot to the face. Commence methodical wear down of Kofi. Michael Cole slipped that Big Show's fans (instead of hands) are huge. Jerry Lawler, never one to pass up a good opportunity to crack a joke, managed to get two jokes out of that slip. Big Show said it's going to be all night long, but Kofi made a brief comeback, only to walk into a sidewalk slam. Kofi then made a full comeback - the "controlled frenzy" - and Lawler excitedly talked up a potential upset. Kofi telegraphed the buzzsaw kick, though, and Show blocked with a chokeslam for the pin and the win. WINNER: Show. Entertaining match, I thought. Still no word on a U.S. Title match for Night of Champions, but it looks like Show will be involved one way or another.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2009, 11:41 am
TNA Impact! Results: 7-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/font_color_770000_KELLER_S_TAKE_font_11/article_33681.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Amazing Red beat Samoa Joe via DQ in 1:00. After the break, Joe beat Red all the way down the ramp and to ringside. West accused Red of being a smart *** who runs his mouth all the time. Tenay said he hasn't said two words in his time in TNA. The ref started the match officially as soon as Joe threw Red into the ring. Seconds later Joe threw the ref to the mat, so the ref DQ'd Joe. West criticized the ref for starting the match in the first place. Three security members entered the ring to back Joe down from further attacking Red.

(2) Suicide pinned Chris Sabin (w/Alex Shelley) in 6:00. Non-title match. Good action, as you'd expect with these two, and Suicide won clean. Afterward, Alex Shelley attaked Suicide. Sabin grabbed a chair se it under Suicide as Shelley held him above it. Sabin then hit a flying legdrop, sending Suicide's face into the chair. Homicide ran out and hit Shelley and Sabin with his briefcase. Homicide then saw how vulnerable Suicide was, so he decided to cash in his briefcase.

(3) Homicide pinned Suicide at 1:00 to capture the TNA X Division Title after cashing in his briefcase. Homicide went for a quick pin. Suicide kicked out, but Homicide continued with a Gringos Killer for the win.

(4) Sarita beat Alissa Flash in 5:00. Flash is billed from San Francisco, Calif. She told Dave Penzer to refer to her as a "future legend." West liked that attitude. Tenay said women wrestlers all over the world want to be part of TNA's Knockout roster. Sarita kicked Flash to the floor early and then dove through the ropes and dove into her chest. Flash took over in the ring. West and Tenay wondered if Flash was going to ruin Sarita's much-hyped debut. Sarita, though, won with a victory roll. Sarita gave Flash a split-legged sitout powerbomb afterward. (*3/4)

(5) Kevin Nash & Booker T & Scott Steiner beat A.J. Styles & Beer Money in an elimination match in 15:00. Nash pinned Styles after a Jackknife in 3:00. Steiner eliminated Storm at 6:00. After the break Roode was trying to battle the Mafia alone, but eventually was slowed down. Booker scored a near fall and actually lifted Roode before the third count to administer more punishment. Nash tagged in and beat down Roode. Roode, though, used a low blow to block a Jackknife and pinned Nash. West was critical, but Tenay somehow said under the circumstances you have admire such a desperation move. When Nash tripped Roode from ringside a minute later, West said, "One low blow entitles you to one cheapshot. That's the rules." Storm walked back to the ring, but Morgan hit him from behind and threw him into the ringside barrier. In the ring Roode knocked both Steiner and Booker down with a clothesline. Roode gave Booker a spinebuster a minute later for a near fall. Roode leaped off the second rope and hit Steiner with a neckbreaker. Booker right after Roode, but Roode avoided a scissors kick. Sharmell distracted the ref as Roode hit the fisherman suplex into a bridge. Steiner then recovered and set up Roode for a front wheel kick to the face. Roode went down for the pin. Sharmell and Jenna got into a fight afterward. (**1/2)

(6) Kurt Angle fought Sting to a no contest in 10:00. Jarrett said Foley is so unpredictable, sometimes he creates situations he's not smart enough to get out of. When West said he agreed with Jarrett, Jarrett snapped back: "Shut up, West. I'm sick of your smart ***." At 2:00 they cut to a break. Angle was in control after the break. Sting made a comeback at 7:00, sending him into the cage and scoring a two count. Angle came back by driving Sting into a corner with shoulder blocks. Angle hit a back suplex. As Jarrett talked about how Victory Road means everything to him and TNA, Samoa Joe attacked him from behind. He then knocked out the ref and stole the key to the cage. He entered the cage as Sting had Angle locked in a Scorpion Death Lock. Joe locked himself in the cage. Sting got up and dropped Joe. He put him in a Scorpion Deathlock. The lights went out and then "FTW 13" appears on the screen. Tenay said he thinks he knows who that signified. Jarrett got up and tried to climb the cage. Angle bashed at his fingers with a night stick. Foley tried to climb the cage. Angle should have stood and laughed at the prospects of that, but instead he bashed his fingers, too. Nash then came out and attacked Jarrett. Joe then applied his sleeper on Sting in mid-ring as Angle stood guard.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2009, 12:36 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33684.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- C.M. PUNK vs. JOHN MORRISON

This is a re-match from three weeks ago. Morrison and Punk exchanged hammerlocks and Punk backed Morrison into the corner. During the breaks in the corner, neither man was pleased with the other. Punk locked in the tarantula hold in the ropes; haven’t seen that in a while. Cross-body off the top by the champion, but Morrison rolled through for two. Morrison got out of a Got To Sleep and monkey-flipped Punk. He sent Punk to the outside, but Punk grabbed his legs through the ropes and pulled him out, with Morrison landing on the mat with a “thud.” About 3:20 in, they went to break.

Punk had Morrison in a waist-scissors out of break, though Morrison was attempting to elbow out. He landed a nice bell-to-belly on the former MNM member, and back to the body-scissors. Morrison got out and punched away at Punk. Running knee to the face for a two-count. He does that move so well, and I don’t imagine it’s an easy move. The men traded covers, then Punk hit Morrison with a double-underhook back-breaker. Another one we haven’t seen in some time. That got a two-count. Morrison ran the ropes and was caught in a sleeper. At the 10:30 mark, they both went down following a double clothesline. Flying Chuck kick for a near-fall by Morrison. There’s a fan in the crowd with a sign that says “Jeff Hardy: Marry Me....in 10 years.” I hope she wasn’t traumatized by the opening promo. After the two went back-and-forth with some of their finishing sequences, Punk went for a Magistra Cradle, but Morrison didn’t allow Punk to turn it, just laying down on him for three.

WINNER: John Morrison, at 11:53. Another great match between these two. It’s amazing the in-ring workers this show has.

Morrison extended his hand to the bemused C.M. Punk after the match, but Punk just slid out of the ring, took his title and went home.

2- KANE vs. R-TRUTH

They showed clips of Kane and Great Khali exchanging chairshots last week on the show. A shoulderblock put Truth on the mat hard. Big uppercut caught Truth walking out of the corner. Kane pounded away at Truth in the corner. He finally missed a charge, but caught Truth on a cross-body attempt. Back-drop by Kane sent Truth to the outside. He missed a big boot though and Truth side-kicked Kane out of the ring and dropkicked him off the apron. Kane tried to re-group on the outside as they went to break just over 2:00 in.

Kane suplexed Truth down as the show returned. Another side-kick by Truth, but he fell victim to a sidewalk slam for a near-fall. Kane tried to squeeze the life out of Truth on the mat, grabbing him in a rear waist-lock. Truth tried to come back with fists, but Kane propelled him back out of the ring. Kane made the mistake of coming out to greet him, and Kane was clotheslined into the ring post. He took over once again while still at ringside, then tossed Truth back inside the squared circle. Bearhug applied by Kane. Kane picked Truth up by the throat at 10:00, but Truth dropkicked him in mid-air. Drop toe-hold into the corner by Truth, then he followed it up with a corner clothesline. DDT and both men were down. When Truth finally made the cover, it was only for two. Truth to the top, but Kane got his big boot up, destroying Truth and picking up the win.

WINNER: Kane, at 11:00. Good finish to the match and it wasn’t as bad as I expected.

3- THE HART DYNASTY vs. CRYME TYME & EVE TORRES

Natalya and Eve were in there first, but they didn’t do much. Tyson and Shad then came in and Shad Pounced on Kidd once again, just like last night. Then some double-teaming from Cryme Tyme in the corner. JTG missed a cross-body and ended up getting crotched on the top rope. David Hart Smith was next in as Natalya picked right up where she left off last night in terms of trash talking. The Hart Dynasty did some double-teaming of their own. Abdominal stretch of sorts from Kidd on JTG. Desperation hip-lock take-over from JTG. D.H. Smith tagged in and took Shad out. JTG was in his corner but Shad wasn’t, so Eve tagged in. Couple of dropkicks hit by Eve. Natalya missed a charge, and Eve landed a roundhouse kick. Moonsault landed, but there was a distraction as the four men were going at it. Natalya hot-shotted Eve off the top rope, then hit spinning clothesline and a good one (Natalya spun around once or twice before using the momentum to take Eve out). That was enough for the win.

WINNERS: The Hart Dynasty, at 4:12. Match was OK, with the trademark tag team finish, but the crowd didn’t seem interested.

4- CHRIS JERICHO & DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JEFF HARDY & REY MYSTERIO

Before the bell rang, C.M. Punk came down. He joined the commentary team. Hardy dropkicked Jericho down to the mat shortly after the bell rang. Punk said his eye is healing nicely, but he still experiences some side-effects. Jericho retaliated with a springboard dropkick, knocking Hardy off the apron and to ringside. They took the final break of the show at this point.

Ziggler had just tagged in upon return and it looks like the heels were having their way with Hardy. They continued pounding away at Hardy, with clotheslines and slams and basically keeping him grounded. Hardy came back with a clothesline of his own, and he was able to tag Rey Mysterio. He proceeded to clean house on Jericho and Ziggler. After a kick to the head, Mysterio made a pin attempt for just two. Mysterio got taken out outside the ring and Ziggler shoved him back in. Ziggler applied a unique chin-lock, then whipped Rey hard into the turnbuckle. Both men were down and both made tags at 11:00. It was Hardy who was all offense this time. Whisper in the Wind connected for two. Jericho tried a Walls of Jericho to no avail. It didn’t work, and Hardy ended up hitting the Swanton (“and the people are all on their feet” said Punk dryly). Ziggler interrupted the three-count. Hardy tried to throw Jericho into Punk at ringside, but Punk avoided it. He had some choice words for Hardy, then when Jeff turned his back, he threw Jericho into Hardy, sending Hardy into the steel steps.

WINNERS: No Contest, at 12:41. “No contest” is my best guess.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 20 2009, 01:06 pm
TNA Victory Road PPV Results: 7-19-09

For complete description of matches, check out my blog at TOKYOPOP (link under my signature picture).

1 -- Knockouts champion TARA vs. ANGELINA LOVE (w/Velvet Sky and Madison Rayne) -- Knockouts Title match

WINNER: Angelina in 7:00 to capture the Knockouts Title. Standard Knockouts match. Continues the storyline between Tara and Angelina playing hot potato over the KO Title.

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. DANIELS
WINNER: Morgan in 11:00. There seemed to be a lack of psychology behind Morgan's offense, as it seemed like he was "just doing stuff" half the time. Daniels was solid playing to the crowd and selling the leg injury angle to give him an "out" for the clean loss. Forgettable undercard match. (*)

3 -- ABYSS vs. DR. STEVIE RICHARDS -- No DQ match
WINNER: Abyss in 10:00. Undercard stunt match / Abyss formula match. Seemed to end the Abyss-Stevie feud with Abyss showing he doesn't need therapy...by winning a wrestling match. Super stretch on getting a wrestling match out of this storyline. Next step seems to be a Daffney vs. Lauren stand-alone feud. (**)

4 -- IWGP tag champions TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS w/Rob Terry) -- IWGP tag team champions
WINNERS: Team 3D in 10:00. By-the-book, going-through-the-motions tag match. Just there to give the fans a taste of what they wanted with 3D's usual spots. (*)

5 -- SHARMELL (w/Sojo Bolt) vs. JENNA MORASCA (w/Awesome Kong)
WINNER: Jenna in 5:00 painful minutes. Sharmell did everything possible to make this not the biggest waste of time ever, but this was possibly the worst match in TNA monthly PPV history. What an embarrassment that they actually tried to work a match here. Goodness gracious. (DUD)

6 -- Legends champion A.J. STYLES vs. KEVIN NASH -- Legends Title match
WINNER: Nash in 11:00 to capture the Legends Title. Okay singles match. Had some flurries of action throughout, but mainly a methodical match to limit Nash's movement in the ring. Styles "created enough movement" to have the best match thus far on the card. Interesting to see where they go with Styles from here. (**1/4)

7 -- TNA tag team champions BEER MONEY, INC. (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. BOOKER T & SCOTT STEINER -- TNA tag title match
WINNERS: Steiner & Booker in 12:00 to capture the TNA tag titles. Slow-motion, use-the-bag-of-tricks tag match. The usual TNA triple play - outside interference, lack of application of rules, and referee incompetence. Match was okay, but brought down by the booking. Mafia continues to win titles, apparently leading to either Angle dropping the title in the main event after talking so sternly earlier in the show and being replaced or the Mafia having total dominance in TNA. (*1/2)

8 -- SAMOA JOE vs. STING
WINNER: Samoa Joe in 12:00. Match was going pretty well, then Taz came out and the crowd just didn't know how to react. Joe then lost his offensive momentum and the finish was thrown off. Anti-climatic debut for Taz, unfortunately. (**1/2)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. MICK FOLEY
WINNER: Kurt Angle in 15:00 to retain the TNA World Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 21 2009, 01:24 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report).  (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33756.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON & MVP & PRIMO COLON vs. JACK SWAGGER & CARLITO & BIG SHOW

Ring intros were abbreviated and the match started very quickly. Rushed match on our hands. After 1:20 of action, they cut to break with MVP in control.

Back from break, Cole reminded us this six-man tag is sponsored by Dave & Busters. In the ring, Swagger was working on Kofi. Big Show beat up wrestlers during the break, which prompted Cole to say Show was "feeding his fun" like D&B. Show entered the ring to work over Kofi, who took a knee drop to the chest followed by a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Carlito then tagged in and was distracted by Primo, allowing Kofi to break free and tag in Primo. Brother vs. Brother went in favor of Primo, who fired off a flurry of rights on Carlito before smashing him with a left-arm lariat. Primo was hot cleaning house, including Big Show. Primo then hit a second rope elbow smash, but Swagger broke up a pin. All heck broke loose leading to an MVP vs. Swagger brawl to the floor. Back in the ring, Carlito wanted the backstabber on Primo, but Primo ducked and Show accidentally speared Carlito. Kofi then gave Show a big spot head scissors over the top rope to the floor. Primo followed with a nice springboard leg drop on Carlito to score the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Team Primo at 9:15. That was a hot, hot match. Great conclusion with heavy focus on Primo, who had himself a nice moment in the sun. Big Show was used effectively to end the "feel good" moment to transfer the positive energy into major heat on him for the PPV build-up. Great match segment other than the younger stars looking weak at the end. Swagger is already getting lost in the shuffle and that sucks. (**1/2)

2 -- THE BRIAN KENDRICK vs. JERRY LAWLER

Bell sounded and Kendrick faked a hip injury to show Lawler is an old man. Kendrick mocked Lawler's Hall of Fame ring, prompting Lawler to punch him in the face. Apparently Kendrick missed Billy Graham's eBay auction. Kendrick then sat on Lawler's back and rode him into the corner before landing a flying fist smash. Lawler then made his trademark comeback with jabs before landing a dropkick. Lawler telegraphed a back body drop, though, and Kendrick kicked him in the chest before landing a flying dropkick. "You got nothing, King," Kendrick shouted. TBK wanted the Sliced Bread, but Lawler blocked and dropped a fist from the second rope. Cole added: "Vintage," of course. Lawler with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Lawler at 2:19. Interesting development with Lawler in the ring tonight in the middle of his Memphis mayor candidacy. Follow-up could be worth paying attention to. Match was fine as a "special attraction" filler to give TBK some TV focus tonight, even if he lost. (*)

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Bell sounded and Jericho bailed to the outside to take a breather. He was trying to frustrate Henry, who just paced around the ring waiting for Jericho to lock up. Henry eventually got Jericho on the mat and wanted a Vader Bomb, but Jericho took his knee out to begin working on the big man. Lawler revealed that Henry is working with a hurt ankle that Jericho was targeting. Henry then pulled out Claudio Castagnoli's Big Swing move after blocking the codebreaker. Henry played to the crowd, then Jericho dropped him to the mat. He wanted the Walls of Jericho, but Henry shoved him through the ropes to the outside. Henry followed out and Jericho jabbed a chair into his gut to cause a DQ.

Post-match: Jericho landed a follow-up chair shot to the back, then Henry shook it off and shoved Jericho into the announce table. Michael Cole took the brunt of the blow and Lawler told Cole to pick himself back up. Back in the ring, Jericho wanted the codebreaker, but Henry blocked and gave Jericho the World's Strongest Slam. Big men standing tall tonight. Henry did the "pose to each side of the arena" spot while Cole suggested Jericho needs to regroup to find his tag partner for Sunday.

WINNER: Henry via DQ at 5:20. I don't understand booking Jericho to look weak right now. WWE needs to be enhancing its top stars right now, not feeding them to big men who aren't going to be positioned as top main eventers. Match was fine with Jericho creating movement to make the match watchable. (*)

4 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. HORNSWOGGLE -- Sharp Dressed Man match

Chavo fell all over himself as Cole and Lawler did every penguin joke in the book. Hornswoggle took the jacket off, then mounted Chavo to take off the bowtie. Lawler suggested Hornswoggle used to be a model. Yeah, he saw him on a trophy once. Oh dear. Hornswoggle ripped off Chavo's shirt, but Chavo cut him off and whipped Hornswoggle with Horny's tuxedo jacket. Chavo then got tied up in the ropes and Hornswoggle slowly took off Chavo's tuxedo pants, revealing Chavo's boxer shorts. "Joe Boxer" received some promotional love. Horny then shoved Chavo through the ropes and Chavo covered up his crotch in embarrassment. Yet, wrestlers come to the ring in far less clothing completely confident with themselves. Oh well. Continue the Guerrero Family Embarrassment.

WINNER: Hornswoggle at 2:33. Just another silly match to continue taking out frustration with Vickie Guerrero by ridiculing Chavo. Kids surely loved it to justify continuing the program. (n/a)

5 -- KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM vs. ALICIA FOX & ROSA MENDES

Gail tried a top rope missile dropkick on Alicia early on, but Alicia kicked her in the knee and Gail sold massive pain. She kicked out of a pin attempt, then Rosa tagged in to work on Gail. Kelly took a hot tag and landed an attempted Great Muta springboard elbow smash in the corner. Action broke down with Gail taking out Rosa on the floor with a plancha. In the ring, Alicia rolled up Kelly with a small package. Kelly was all over the ropes and the ref just kept on counting for a three count.

WINNERS: Alicia & Rosa at 3:40. Rough match with some flashes of looking half-way credible. Kelly stood out compared to the "developmental divas," while Gail continues to be an after-thought. (1/2*)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. TRIPLE H & JOHN CENA

Cena and Cody started things off with Cena exploding on Cody with a barrage of offense. Hunter quickly took a tag and entered to work on Cody. They set up the deal where the babyfaces cleared the heels out of the ring, Legacy regrouped on the floor, and they cut to break with Cena and Hunter in control.

Cena was in dire straights coming out of the break, according to Cole. Oh, how is he going to escape Legacy? Oh, he's in trouble! Oh, he made a hot tag to Hunter, who cleaned house. WWE presents Cole with no credibility on commentary. Cody then stomped Hunter and sent him to the outside where Orton sent Hunter head-first into the ring steps. Legacy began stomping and kicking and slapping and punching Hunter back in the ring while Cena tried to shout encouragement to Hunter.

Legacy continued to corner Hunter. They kept teasing the hot tag to Cena to build up the crowd heat before bringing it back down. Cody executed a snap DDT at 10:45 that brought in Orton to work over Hunter. Orton tried an RKO, but Hunter easily countered and hit the Spinebuster. Cena stared running up and down the ring apron begging for a hot tag and firing up the crowd. Hunter began his slow crawl across the desert to Cena, who took the tag at 12:12 after they milked the heck out of that. Cena exploded on Cody, who was the legal man, and set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle combo. Cena wanted the FU on Cody, but DiBiase came in to block. Cena threw him away, then slapped on the STFU in center ring on Cody. Cody held on and DiBiase broke it up. Hunter then took DiBiase to the outside and beat him up. Action everywhere. Orton took a tag and wanted The Punt on Cena, but Cena moved and rolled up Orton with a small package for the pin and the win.

Cole pointed out that Cena pinned the champion and could be champion on Sunday as "quick as that." Hunter and Cena got their hands raised in the ring and Orton seethed on the outside after taking the loss. Legacy joined Orton on the floor to share in their frustrations. Hunter scowled from inside the ring as the announcers recapped the finish of the match. Cena and Hunter shook hands center-ring as Cole talked about three of WWE's biggest stars clashing for the WWE Title on Sunday. End show.

WINNERS: Cena & Hunter at 13:33. Hot finish after the slow build-up to Cena's hot tag. High energy from Cena, who knows how to perform for a crowd. Nice finish to set up the PPV three-way title match, even if it's another repeat match following another repeat TV main event. WWE did its best to make viewers buy into the triple threat, even though Orton has zero credibility right now and there's no heat on the heel champion. We'll see what the PPV buys look like in a few months. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 23 2009, 01:28 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 7-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33794.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal needed a breather after Yoshi fired up on him early on. Regal, the crafty heel, then lured Yoshi into a false sense of bravado and went to work on his back and head. "Regal Sucks" was the chant from the crowd. Regal continued to methodically wear down Yoshi, who struggled for breath in a neck trap. Yoshi then fired up with a roundhouse kick and suggested he was going to make an impact with a top rope move. Regal cut him off, though, to screams from the kids seeing Yoshi in peril. (Great sign that Yoshi is catching on.) Regal then wanted the big knee lift of doom, but Yoshi ducked and caught Regal with a kick behind the ear. Regal sold it like he was shot in the head and Yoshi pinned him for the win. Cue up a lengthy post-match celebration for Yoshi.

WINNER: Yoshi in 6:00. Fans are buying into Yoshi big time right now. Solid outing for Yoshi, who was given an important win over Regal. Well done. WWE obviously sees what the fans see - an exciting babyface with a big upside. (*1/4)

2 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. MIKE WILLIAMS

Zeke simply stared a hole through Mike and approached him for a giant clothesline. Zeke then stood over Mike's fallen body and nailed a chokeslam. Quick pin for the win.

Post-match: Kozlov's music hit as Ezekiel stood over Mike's body. Kozlov had an equally menacing scowl on his face. Zeke was puzzled but stayed firm. Kozlov stood over Mike Williams's body, then turned on a machine-like facial expression and gave him the Iron Curtain. Apparently Kozlov saw a potential tackling dummy and took advantage. He then turned around and marched right out of the ring.

WINNER: Ezekiel in 0:30. Well, you would think Kozlov would be plugged into the ECW Title match at the PPV since WWE basically booked Tommy Dreamer and Christian to look as weak as Randy Orton last week, but that doesn't appear to be the case, so they fed left-overs to Kozlov. (n/a)

3 -- GOLDUST vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Pace quickened with Goldust making a comeback and asking the fans to stick with him. "Come on, baby, let's go!" He delivered an atomic drop, then a bulldog for a two count. Goldy certainly showing more fire in recent weeks to audition for a permanent spot on TV. Goldust went for a left-arm clothesline, but left himself open for backbreaker across his knee. Shelton then went up top for a turnaround splash of sorts, but Goldust blocked with an uppercut...after an uncomfortable pause. Goldust tried to catch his breath near the ropes, but Shelton slingshot him across the top rope. Shelton followed with the Pay Dirt facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton Benjamin in 5:00. Good win for Shelton. Good energy from both men. WWE has quickly erased that bogus ECW debut against Yoshi three weeks ago, fortunately. Hopefully he's in the main event picture after the PPV next week. (*1/2)

4 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. TYLER REKS

Reks making his in-ring debut on ECW after a few losses on Superstars. Of note: where the heck is Zach Ryder tonight? Striker called him a "Dynamic Dude." Paging John Laurinaitis. Mathews: "Did you just call him a Dynamic Dude?" Pause. Pause. Pause. Striker muttered something under his breath. Burchill took control early on tried to ground Reks's nose into the mat throughout. Slow, methodical Burchill match. Reks then powered out of a chinlock and started throwing right elbows. He followed with a nice springboard dropkick showing good hang time (pun intended). Burchill came back with a rolling belly-to-back suplex for a two count. Pace quickening. Burchill then walked into a small package from Reks, who picked up his first TV victory. Burchill just doesn't win matches. Perhaps they'll build a losing streak program to where he ... Burchill blasted Reks post-match out of frustration. Reks fell to the floor and Burchill left standing tall at the end of the day.

WINNER: Reks in 6:00. Okay singles match. Reks had a nice, fiery comeback before picking up the win. Not sure what WWE is looking to do with Burchill, but at least he has a roster spot. (*)

The last segment of ECW was the Abraham Washington Show with Tommy Dreamer and Christian setting up for their match this weekend.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2009, 01:16 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33850.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal aggressive early on with a side headlock. Christian then ran him through the ropes to the outside and tried a plancha, but Regal moved and Christian ate the floor. Back in the ring, Regal went back to a headlock. Christian countered, but Regal went back to a headlock. Regal focused on just wearing down the #1 contender. Christian came back with a back elbow smash, then wanted a Tornado DDT out of the corner, but Regal shoved him clear over the top rope to the floor. Christian sold it like a pro, then slowly made his way back into the ring where Regal blasted him again. Regal then punched him off the apron to the ground and Christian was sprawled out on the floor leading to break.

Back from break, Christian was trying to fight out of a standing stretch. He broke free, then both men knocked into each center ring and Christian went sprawling to the outside yet again. Ref reached a seven count, then Christian popped into the ring with the proverbial adrenaline rush to make a full comeback with a top rope missile dropkick for a two count. Regal then countered the Killswitch with a sweet overhead release suplex, but only scored a two count. Regal tried to finish off Christian, but Christian executed a sunset flip and trapped Regal's arms with his legs for a pinfall to win. Post-match: Announcers plugged Dreamer vs. Christian for the ECW Title at Night of Champions. Regal stood center-ring wanting another run at Christian, who caught his breath and sold the full effects of Regal's offense.

WINNER: Christian in 12:00. Typical Regal match where he has plenty of offense and shows aggressiveness, but ultimately loses the match. Not exactly a showcase for Christian before a PPV title match since he spent most of the match on the floor and dominated by Regal, but emphasis at the end was on Christian showing he can win a match some other way than using the Killswitch. Overall, solid TV match. (**1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Lawler: "Both men about evenly matched." In other words, Lawler thinks they're both short and look the same. Fast-paced action to start before Noble grounded Bourne to take away the high-flying. Noble went to work on Bourne, prompting Lawler filling in the time with redneck jokes. Bourne made a comeback and Lawler said Noble has the Krispy Kreme look of the glazed over eyes and spaghetti legs. Someone feed The King. Noble then bailed to the outside for a breather, but Bourne nailed him with a splash. Both men battled back into the ring where Noble nailed a superplex and made a cover, but Bourne kicked out in time. Bourne and Noble went to the apron where Bourne landed an enziguiri kick. Bourne then dialed up the Shooting Star Press and Lawler went "aaaaaaahhhh" as Bourne connected. Bourne with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 5:00. I wonder ... When was the last name an under-sized wrestler was booked in a squash match? Apparently it's only reserved for big man. This was the perfect opportunity for Bourne. You have Jamie Noble, who hasn't been on TV for a while and hasn't won a match in an even longer time and hasn't been presented credibly to the audience in years, as the opposition, yet WWE still booked a straight-up singles match. Of course, there was heavy emphasis on Bourne and everyone knew he was going to win, but I just don't think he benefited much from this. They apparently don't know what to do with him, so they booked him in an easy-win singles match just to get him on TV. Here's an amazing talent on their hands and they - for whatever lame reason - don't know what to do with hin, so they have him in a holding pattern.

3 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. KANE

As expected, Kane took control early on with power offense overcoming high-flying. Kane grounded Morrison with a reverse chinlock and wore him down a bit. Morrison made it to his feet, then tried a barrage of strikes, but Kane flung him through the ropes to the floor. Repeat the Regal-Christian formula of the babyface Morrison on the floor going to a break.

Back from break, Kane was still in control working over Morrison's entire body. Head to toe coverage. Take away every body part. Make sure he can't even make the Batista Comeback. Morrison then made a comeback with three kicks to the chest and one to the head that put Kane on the mat. Morrison then covered up in the corner to avoid punches before catching Morrison with a trademark uppercut beneath the chin. Kane then teased a chokeslam, but Morrison slipped out and nailed the springboard Flying Chuck kick for a close nearfall. Crowd believed in a finish, but their hopes were dashed.

Kane then cut Morrison right off with a sidewalk slam for a two count of his own. He went up top for some reason and Morrison nailed him with A.J. Styles Pele kick to the head. Morrison then kicked Kane off the turnbuckle to the floor. Kane grabbed a steel chair off-camera and smashed Morrison in the gut as he came flying down for a splash. Ref called for a DQ. Morrison sold an arm injury, then Kane threw Morrison back into the ring and retrieved the chair. Great Khali's music hit, though, and Khali's super slow entrance allowed Morrison to recover and strike Kane from behind. Khali then played tug of war with Kane's ankles, but Kane bailed and went into the stands to avoid the wrath of Khali. Kane walked through the crowd and Khali stood tall... excuse the pin...to close the show.

WINNER: Morrison via DQ in 14:00. Good singles main event. Both men looked sharp in the ring. Same formula as Christian-Regal in the opener, just with a different finish. The show ending with Khali standing tall and without a PPV match to promote on Sunday reinforces the idea that Superstars is simply a "feature of stars" and isn't a true free TV infomercial show to sell PPVs. Therefore, I argue, the Raw Rebound should never air on Superstars again.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2009, 01:33 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33853.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) HOMICIDE vs. SAMOE JOE (w/TAZ)
X Division Championship Match

West tries to sell on commentary that the X Division title was always important to the MEM, and that's why they went after Joe. Homicide and Joe trade single leg takedowns. Homicide rolls to the outside—Joe looks to follow, but Homicide doesn't stay still long enough. Joe whiffs on an attempted Plancha, then eats a Somersault Plancha of Homicide's. The fight rolls back into the ring. Homicide tries to charge Joe in the corner, but gets Ura-Naged for his trouble. Joe hits a knee drop. Homicide creates a bit of distances with some kicks, but when he comes off the ropes he walks right into a Snap Slam for two. Joe, in an attempt to make his offense more boring, locks in an Abdominal Stretch. Homicide slips out and goes for some right hands and clotheslines, but Joe no-sells them all. Eventually Homicide takes Joe off his feet with a Spinning Elbow, but only gets a one count. He hits a Tornado DDT off the top rope, which is at least enough for a two count. Homicide looks for something or other (he was in a Rock Bottom position), but Joe just flips him over in a Suplex. He works over Homicide in the corner, so the ref tries to pull him off. Joe slugs him. Homicide takes advantage of the distraction to go for the Gringo Killer. Joe fights it off. Homicide looks for a Gringo Cutter, but Joe catches him in a Kokido Clutch. The ref comes around, and sees Homicide, then calls for the bell. Joe, being a moron, thinks he's won. Really, the ref has called for the DQ.

WINNER: Homicide by DQ in five minutes. That was a nice taste of what these two could do with a real match.

(2) AMAZING RED vs. KEVIN NASH (w/JENNA MORASCA)
Legends' Championship Match

Don West is sarcastically selling what a challenge this will be for Kevin Nash—how awesome will it be if Red wins. Nash invites Red to get in the first shot to start. Red does so with a quick flurry, and Nash seems a little rocked. He lifts a knee, and Red goes flying. Nash takes Red into a corner and hits some more knees. He takes a moment to pose, the flings Red across the ring. Red gets up trying to kick Nash's legs out from under him, but Nash just whacks him with another knee lift and nails the Jackknife. The crowd chants for him to do it one more time, but instead he just drives Red to the ground and gets the cover. I think that was actually an improvised spot, since he realized that a second Jackknife would get cheers.

WINNER: Kevin Nash in 2 minutes. Why are they treating Amazing Red as a jobber?

(3) SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T (w/SHARMELL) vs. BIG ROCCO & SALLY BOY

It would be less awesome if the MEM lost this one. Booker toys with Sally a bit to start, then lays in with some chops. Steiner tags in and stomps on Sally some before hitting his Do-Se-Do Suplex. He lures Rocco into the ring with a spit to the face, but doesn't do anything illegal while the ref is distracted. Booker tags in. Sally starts to fight back from his knees, so Booker pokes his eyes and starts working the chops again. He hits a Spinning Back Kick; Rocco comes into the ring, and Booker breaks his cover. He tags in Steiner, who hits a clothesline and his Pushup Elbow Drop. He hits some more strikes in the corner, but when he charges Sally gets a leg up and is able to make the tag. Rocco zooms across the ring, knocks Booker off the apron, and floors Scott Steiner with a Body Slam. He goes to the top, as the Impact Zone goes ballistic at the prospect of an upset. He hits a Big Splash off the top rope, which gets 1, 2…no! Sharmell pulls the ref out by the leg. Meanwhile, Booker comes back and nails a Bookend on Rocco. Steiner finishes him off with a Flatliner for the kill.

WINNER: Steiner & Booker T in five minutes. I don't know why this got longer than the first one, but the crowd was psyched by the end.

(4) TARA vs. ANGELINA LOVE vs. VELVET SKY vs. MADISON RAYNE vs. ODB vs. ALISSA FLASH vs. SOJO BOLT vs. TAYLOR WILDE vs. DAFFNEY vs. SARITA

The only women to get their own entrances are Kong and Tara. The match starts with some brawling. Taylor Wilde tosses Daffney out of nowhere, then Kong Gorilla Presses Madison Rayne out onto her. Slick Johnson goes to cradle Rayne. ODB gets tossed, but Cody Deaner catcher her and rolls her back in. Slick Johnson bans Deaner from ringside. Taylor Wilde Back Body Drops Sojo Bolt out to the apron, then kicks her out the match. On the other side of the ring Tara does the exact same thing to Velvet Sky. That was a little weird. Kevin Nash strides down to the commentary booth.

Taylor Wilde and Alissa Flash were eliminated during the break, and we get back just in time to see ODB toss Angelina Love. ODB, Tara, and Sarita try to triple team Awesome Kong, but it doesn't work. She tosses dodges Tara, floors ODB, and drops Sarita to the match. They give up on that plan. Tara tries to dump Sarita, but she rolls back under the bottom rope. Kong lifts ODB onto the ropes, then butt bumps her down to the ground. Tara is facing off with Sarita in the corner. Kong kicks Tara and tosses Sarita back into the ring. Sarita lands on her feet and rocks Kong with a Springboard Dropkick, but gets tossed out for her troubles anyway. Tara and Kong trade punches in the middle of the ring. Tara goes for an Octopus. Kong tries to fight it off, and they end up both perched on the ropes. Knockout Lar Traci Brooks suddenly dumps both of them from the ring. Kevin Nash goes down to the ring and proclaims her the winner.

Winner: Traci Brooks in 10 minutes. There had to be a better way to spend that time. Nash emphasizes that Traci was an original TNA Knockout.

(5) ROBERT ROODE, JAMES STORM, AJ STYLES, ERIC YOUNG, & DANIELS vs. THE BRITISH INVASION, KIYOSHI, & BASHIR

Bashir and Young lock up to start, yet no one mentions them costing each other the X Division title a few months ago. Beer Money tag in in turn, nailing the Beer Money Suplex on Bashit, then using an interfering Kiyoshi as a battering ram. AJ tags in for some quick strikes, then tags in Daniels, who hoists Bashir up for AJ to hit with a flying punch. Daniels hits a Split-Legged Moonsault for two. He lands a few jabs, but is whipped into the Brits' corner where he takes a punch from Rob Terry. Bashir tags in Kiyoshi, who takes Daniels down by the ear then clotheslines him on the mat. Terry tags in and throws Daniels across the ring. He floors him with a clothesline. Daniels fights back with right hands, but Terry no sells them. He goes for a Cross Body Block, and he no sells that too. Magnus tag in, and Williams helps him hit a Union-Jack like slam. Williams tags in and they hit back to back strikes on Daniels in the corner. AJ has to break up the cover after Williams hits a Knee Drop off the top rope. Daniels whips Williams into his own partner on the apron, which gives him enough room to hit an Ensuguri and make the tag to AJ. AJ takes it to all five heels, eventually hitting a Flying Forearm on Magnus (who I guess tagged in), but all the heels jump in to break up the cover. We get a pier six brawl. EY tosses Brutus Magnus to AJ, but when AJ looks for a Styles Clash EY spins him around and hits a Pile Driver. Magnus makes the cover.

WINNERS: Kiyoshi, Bashir, The British Invasion (and sort of Eric Young) in six minutes.

(6) KURT ANGLE vs. MICK FOLEY
Keys on a Pole Match

Mick still looks sad on his way down to the ring. Angle and Foley trade punches to start, with Mick getting the better of the exchange. Kurt fights back with a European Uppercut and some right hands in the corner, but Mick regains control. Foley hits his charging knee in the corner. Mick starts to climb, but Kurt clips his leg out from under him. We get some more brawling, culminating with Mick clotheslining Kurt out of the ring. Foley tries to climb, but doesn't even come close before Kurt pulls him down. Kurt pounds oh him for a few seconds before trying to climb. Mick catches him on the top rope and brings him back down with a Superplex. That has to be a good idea with Kurt injured.

Mick ducks an attempted clothesline and connects with a Double Armed DDT. He grabs the artist formerly known as Mr. Socko and locks in the Mandible Claw. There are audible chants for Angle, and none for Foley. Mick takes Kurt down to the mat, where he seems to be out. He starts to climb, but the rest of the MEM run down to keep Mick from getting the keys. The ref calls for DQ. Wait, what?

WINNER?: Mick Foley by DQ in ten minutes. So the only way to win is to either get the keys or be attacked by an ally of your opponent—apparently.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 25 2009, 12:30 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33881.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JEFF HARDY vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Hardy went right after Jericho and the fight immediately spilled to the outside, as he threw Jericho into the railing twice as a repercussion for what Jericho did to him last week. Jericho got a few kicks in, but Hardy was back on offense with a headscissor take-over, followed by a clothesline of Jericho over the top rope and to the outside. Hardy tried to dropkick Jericho through the ropes, but Jericho caught him and pulled him out, with Hardy landing on the back of his head. They went to break less than two minutes into the match.

Jericho was in control out of break, and had Hardy grounded. They waited until the crowd got into it, and Hardy worked his wa to his feet. Cross-body by Hardy got two. Enziguiri put Hardy back down. Hardy missed a splash in the corner and Jericho followed with an elbow off the second rope for two. Hardy made his comeback, including most of his signature spots. Swanton missed and Jericho got the upper-hand with a Lionsault for two. I’m surprised they haven’t re-named that one since his time in WWE. He tried to lock in the Walls, but Jeff powered out. He tried again, but Hardy countered with an inside cradle. Corner dropkick was blocked and Jericho caught Hardy in position for a Walls, which was applied successfully. Hardy reached the ropes and referee Scott Armstrong called for a break. Catapult attempt didn’t work for Jericho and Hardy hit Whisper in the Wind for a near-fall. Looked like Hardy’s foot came right down on Jericho’s head. Codebreaker out of nowhere by Jericho, that caused Hardy to flop around ‘til he was out of the ring. Jericho was dumbfounded by not being able to find where Hardy was in the ring, until he realized he went outside. Jericho dragged the limp Hardy to his feet and pushed him into the ring. Could only get two on the pin though. Jericho kicked at Jeff in frustration, but Jeff landed the Twist of Fate, and Hardy looked to make his way to the top for the finish. Hardy got to the top, but Jericho popped up and hit the top rope, crotching Jeff. Jericho attempted to suplex Jeff off the top, but Hardy knocked him off. Hardy then hit the Swanton for the win.

WINNER: Hardy, at 15:11. Good back-and-forth match; your usual solid TV performance from these two. I thought Jericho might get the win, but unlike ECW, Smackdown seems to want to keep at least one of the contestants in the brand’s title match strong heading into the pay-per view.

2- THE GREAT KHALI vs. MIKE KNOX

We have a Mike Knox sighting. Knox got a kick to the gut and a few punches, but Khali pushed him into the ropes and landed a forearm. Khali cornered Knox with the Kevin Nash repertoire, including elbows, knees and a chop. Then, Kane’s music hit and the fire went off. Kane walked out to the stage and slowly made his way down the aisle. Knox took advantage of the distracted Khali. Nope, Kane is still standing on the stage. Knox took Khali to one knee, but that didn’t last long. Standing boot to the face by Khali, then a clothesline as Ranjin Singh cheered on from ringside. Chop to the head, then a Punjabi Plunge finished Knox.

WINNER: Khali, at 2:13. Poor Knox.

3- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. FINLAY

I was hoping Finlay would change his theme back to the original one after Hornswoggle left, but no dice. Hair pull by Finlay took Ziggler to the mat, but Dolph got into the ropes. Finlay missed a shoulder in the corner and hit the ring-post. Ziggler took advantage, pulling the shoulder again into the post. Ziggler attacked the shoulder and upper-arm area. Good clothesline put Finlay down for a one-count. Finlay got Ziggler up on his shoulders three minutes in, but Ziggler got down and Finlay kicked him into the announce table on the outside. Maria tended to Ziggler after Finlay tossed him into the table again. Finlay backed away, not wanting to involve Maria, and tried to get back into the ring. Ziggler popped right up and gave his finisher to Finlay outside the ring. Ziggler went back into the ring and won by count-out.

WINNER: Ziggler, by count-out, at 4:18. Another good win for Ziggler heading into Night of Champions.

4- EVE TORRES vs. NATALYA

Both tag teams were at ringside with their ladies. After a break in the ropes, Natalya pushed Eve away. Eve then got a headlock take-over. Eve was on the second rope, but she jumped right into Natalya’s arms and she slammed her down for two. Natalya pounded away at Eve’s head on the mat. Natalya put Eve in a surfboard. She missed a legdrop and Eve came back with a clothesline and a dropkick. Eve walked into another spinning clothesline. Eve got into the ropes though and Eve again hammered away. The Harts implored Natalya to finish her. She put Eve on the top rope, but Eve knocked her down, then moonsaulted onto Natalya for the win.

WINNER: Eve, at 2:58. Moonsault looked good and the match was decent, thanks in large part to Natalya.

5- R-TRUTH vs. CHARLIE HAAS

Haas was already in the ring. Truth took Haas down, then Haas complained to the ref in an attempt to catch Truth off guard, but it didn’t work. Truth did one of his flips, but tweaked his knee. Haas went right after it, kicking it out from underneath Truth. He slammed the injured leg into the ring post. Todd Grisham hearkened back to Martin Gramatica injuring himself celebrating a field goal a few years ago. Haas even went the extra mile, pulling the jeans of Truth up and pulling down on the knee-pad and working over the injured body part. Half-crab, but Truth worked his way to the ropes. Truth kicked Haas away from him, then got a shot to the gut. He made a comeback and got two off a hip-toss. That didn’t deter Haas, who continued work on the knee until Truth hit his axe kick out of nowhere, spelling the end for Haas.

WINNER: Truth, at 4:36. Win didn’t mean much since Haas doesn’t have any credibility unless he’s with Shelton, but at least he beat a good technical wrestler and it’s a good sign for Truth.

6- C.M. PUNK vs. REY MYSTERIO

Mysterio gave his mask to a WWE Magazine contest winner, who got his name in chyron and everything. Punk took Rey down as the match began slowly. Rey rolled Punk up after jumping from his feet to Punk’s shoulders. Punk ended up throwing Rey shoulder-first into the ring post to finish an exchange. Punk grabbed a side-headlock. Rey had Punk’s hand and jumped to the top rope, but Punk pushed him off and Rey appeared to catch his arm on the top rope. Punk delivered a baseball slide to Rey on the outside. Almost four minutes into the match, they went to break.

Punk had Rey tied up in the ring, working on the arm. Hard kick to the back by Punk, then a legdrop and a near-fall. Rey hit the ropes, but Punk landed a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker for two. Crowd chanted “619" as Punk had Rey in a hold again focusing on the arm. 11:00 into the match, Dolph Ziggler came to ringside to get a closer look at his opponent for Sunday. Rey got a springboard cross-body on Punk for two. Then he caught Punk in the jaw with a dropkick. Rey got a boot up in the corner, then a headscissors on Punk into the 619 position. Rey couldn’t get it, but he did drop the dime on Punk. Ziggler got knocked off the apron by Rey, and Punk caught him with a leg lariat. A beautiful knee in the corner by Punk led to Rey getting out of a bulldog and again putting Punk in position for the 619, but again Punk avoided it with a headbutt to the gut. He threw Rey to the outside under the ring and Rey flipped as usual so he didn’t get injured. Ugly bulldog by Rey where I’m not sure what Punk hit, but it wasn’t the mat. Rey connected on the 619, then hit the springboard splash, but Dolph Ziggler interfered, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Rey, by DQ, at 14:37.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 27 2009, 01:13 pm
WWE Night of Champions PPV Results: 7-26-09

Ongoing results courtesy of PWTorch.com and Caldwell's real-time report.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. LEGACY (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES) -- Unified tag title match
WINNERS: Jericho & Show in 9:00. This match didn't make sense. Crowd was quiet for a heel vs. heel tag match that kinda sorta made Jericho (their best heel in the company) into a pseudo babyface. Okay opener, but not ideal. (*1/2)
 
2 -- ECW champion TOMMY DREAMER vs. CHRISTIAN -- ECW Title match
WINNER: Christian in 9:00 to capture the ECW Title. Good undercard match. Crowd has been quiet thus far, but both men put in a fair performance that should have been received better than it was. Christian vs. Kozlov coming to an ECW TV episode near you, apparently. (**)
 
3 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. CARLITO vs. PRIMO vs. MVP -- U.S. Title match -- Six-Pack challenge
WINNER: Kofi in 8:00 to retain the U.S. Title. Good finish after a slow, awkward, middle-of-the-Royal Rumble kind of a start. The stand-off between Miz, Primo, and Carlito was a great spot. Crowd seemed to finally get warmed up near the end of the match. (**)
 
4 -- Women's champion MICHELLE McCOOL vs. MELINA -- Women's Title match
WINNER: McCool in 7:00 to retain the Women's Title. Very aggressive match. They included many spots at the expense of selling the effects, but it was a good under-card showing for both women. (*3/4)
 
5 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA vs. TRIPLE H
WINNER: Orton in 23:00 to retain the WWE Title. Why didn't it matter that Randy Orton tapped out to the double submission? Why did the match continue? The announcers were confused on the triple threat rules throughout the match, the finish wasn't clear, and they really went TNA with the lack of rules application. Lame finish to an otherwise very good triple threat match. Orton's look before attempting the Punt on Cena around 15:00 was one of the highlights of the night. (***3/4 for the match, neg. **** for the finish.)
 
6 -- Divas champion MARYSE vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Divas Title match
WINNER: Mickie James in 9:00 to capture the Divas Title. They went in and out of the ring several times to keep the match interesting in the "come down" match following the triple threat WWE Title match. Good showcase and solid victory for Mickie. (*1/4)

7 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Maria) -- Intercontinental Title match
WINNER: Rey in 15:00 to retain the IC Title. Ziggler worked hard on the offensive attack throughout, but the crowd wasn't into Ziggler at all. It's going to take time for new stars to develop when WWE has trained the audience to accept the same old, same old. WWE set a poor tone at the start of the PPV by passing on an opportunity to introduce a new star into the mix with Chris Jericho by settling for a "name" like Big Show. (*1/2)

8 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. JEFF HARDY -- World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Jeff Hardy in 16:00 to capture the World Heavyweight Title. I'm not sure what's the headline coming out of this: Hardy winning the WWE Title, Punk now the best heel in the company, or an awesome main event that helped bolster this overall lackluster PPV. Didn't quite save the PPV, but Hardy and Punk were simply great tonight. Punk was especially on his game with the heelisms, facial expressions, and offensive attacks. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 28 2009, 11:01 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33946.shtml) To avoid pop-ups and view in-ring results only, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #9201 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2780814&postcount=9201)

1 -- MARK HENRY vs. CARLITO -- Beat the Clock challenge match
WINNER: Henry at 6:49. Gosh, that dragged so that Henry could set a near-seven minute pace. At least it made Carlito look half-way credible with him putting up a good fight in the match. (*)

2 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM vs. BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES & ROSA MENDES
WINNERS: Team Mickie at 3:55. Fine divas match. Didn't really set up anything going forward or follow-up anything from last night, but perhaps they're going to go with Mickie vs. Gail in a title match program. We'll see. (*)

3 -- MVP vs. CHRIS MASTERS -- Beat the Clock challenge match
WINNER: Double Count-out at 3:39. Masters looked good in his return, but it's been a few years, so the WWE fans didn't exactly gravitate toward the surprise return of a mid-carder. WWE fans also don't have a very long memory. Meanwhile, MVP stuck going nowhere on Raw. (*)

4 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE BRIAN KENDRICK -- non-title match
WINNER: Kingston at 0:09. There's your probable Place Your Bets (2) victory this week. TBK the current mid-card heel with zero credibility getting paid to get beat up. Always need one of those on Raw. (n/a)

5 -- TRIPLE H vs. CODY RHODES -- Beat the Clock challenge match
WINNER: Time expired at 6:49. I thought Cody really benefited from this and was elevated, even if he had help from DiBiase pre-match. Cody worked a smart match and WWE booked him to "hold his own" against SuperHunter. Good drama at the end to take advantage of the gimmick. (**)

6 -- HORNSWOGGLE vs. CHAVO -- Blindfold match for Chavo
WINNER: Hornswoggle at 3:36. Just a fill-in-the-gap gimmick match to continue the running gag against the Guerrero family. They stretched Santino(a) forever. Now, it's the Horny-Chavo program. Match was at least half-way fun and entertaining even if it was a waste of time. (n/a)

7 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EVAN BOURNE -- Beat the Clock challenge match
WINNER: Bourne at 3:40. Swagger still in a position to be lost in the shuffle after losing the match, but Bourne benefited from the win. Not sure if it will lead to anything of merit leading to Summerslam, but we'll see. Crowd still warming up to the younger stars who haven't been on Raw for a while. (*1/2)

8 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ -- Beat the Clock challenge match
WINNER: Cena at 4:30 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Again, Miz loses clean to Cena. This one didn't seem as bad as the previous two with Miz having a few legit nearfalls on Cena, but it was typical SuperCena overcoming Miz at the end of the day. So, once again, we have Orton vs. Cena in a WWE Title match. Rinse. Repeat. (*1/2)

9 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) -- non-title match
WINNERS: Cryme Tyme via DQ at 6:41. Okay gimmick tag match without a PPV to hype right now. Post-match was the story, though, with Shaq vs. Show. ... (*)

Post-match: Show wanted a double chokeslam on Cryme Tyme and he stared down Shaq. He then threw CT down instead of delivering the chokeslam and told Shaq to get in the ring. Shaq ripped off his ref t-shirt and stepped in the ring to confront Show face-to-face. Show with a light shove. Shaq with a heavy shove. Show rubbed his nose and smiled. Shaq smiled. Show teased a chokeslam, but Shaq grabbed him by the throat. Double chokeslam tease. Test of Strength. This is going on ESPN for sure. JTG and Shad then kicked Show with a cheap shot and Shaq clotheslined Show into the ropes to the outside. Shaq needed an assist from CT? Not very tough or babyfaceish. They have Shaq vs. Show ready to order for Summerslam if they want it. Shaq stood tall center-ring. Cole: "What a Shaqtacular night." Lawler: "Oh, please." Thanks, Jerry. Shaq and CT then stood tall center ring and Shaq talked trash to Show, who recovered on the outside with Jericho. One last plug for Jeremy Piven hosting Raw next week. Shaq then ran out of the ring and ran up the ramp to chase away Show and Jericho to close the show about 13 minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 29 2009, 11:17 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 7-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_33982.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Reks was in control early, but Burchill grabbed control and took the offensive working a typical Burchill match. Power offense. Power holds. Strikes. Blows. Aggressive look on his face. Reks made a comeback, then avoided a corner smash on the ring apron and sent Burchill back into the middle of the ring a bit dazed. Reks then came off the apron with a springboard missile dropkick on Burchill. Reks with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Reks in 5:00. Standard TV match. Burchill continues to lose matches. Reks on the rise. (*)

2 -- VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. BILL BAINE

Matt Striker let us know that Baine is a minor league ballplayer. Cue up an old-school Orioles reference from Striker to see if he has any Eddie Murray in him tonight. Bell sounded and Kozlov kicked him in the gut. Baine didn't see it coming, then Kozlov pounded him in the gut with jabs and kicks. He finally finished him off with the Iron Curtain for the easy win.

Post-match: Ezekiel Jackson's music hit and Zeke came out ready to dominate. He wanted a piece of the dead meat too. Kozlov stared him down for meddling in his business. Zeke then picked up the left-over scraps and nailed a lift-up Rock Bottom. Ezekiel then left the ring after giving Kozlov a receipt from last week when Kozlov pulled the same trick.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00. Week 2 of the program continues. We'll see where this leads. Frustrating trying to analyze these first two matches because they just seem like filler without anything on the line. WWE doesn't establish a "quest for a title" or a money purse or attach any sense of value to these matches, so they're just there. (n/a)

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. GOLDUST

Sheamus wanted to slow things down early on. He put Goldust on the mat and landed three consecutive elbow smashes for a two count. Goldust made a comeback and wanted the Curtain Call, but Sheamus shoved him away and nailed a kick to the face. Sheamus followed with a Rock Bottom backbreaker across his knee for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus in 5:00. Another basic TV match to establish new talent. Just not much to analyze here. All of the little things that go into building a house are important, but aren't that sexy; people just want to see the finished house product. (*)

4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. ZACK RYDER -- non-title match

The match was joined in progress with Ryder on the defensive against an aggressive Christian. Very even match-up to start before Christian wore down Ryder with a series of armbars. Christian sent Ryder to the middle rope, then stood on his back. He followed with a hard running clothesline in the corner to continue being the aggressor. Christian tried to run Ryder into the opposite corner, but Ryder reversed and whipped Christian into the turnbuckle. "C'mon, bro, you ain't nothing," Ryder shouted. Christian took umbrage and came back with a springboard sunset flip out of the corner for a two count. Ryder and Christian battled to the apron, then to the floor with Christian winning the mini-battle with a plancha. Both men recovered on the outside going to break.

Right back from break, Ryder shoved Christian off the top turnbuckle to the floor. Ryder tried to get a count-out, but Christian made it back into the ring. Ryder went to work on Christian's gut with mat holds including a body scissors. The action moved up top where Ryder nailed a nice superplex. Move took the steam out of both men, then Ryder made a cover after a delay for a two count.

Ryder went back to work on the mid-section at the top of the hour. Ryder wanted another superplex, but Christian shoved him to the mat and landed a cross-body block for a nearfall. Striker put over Ryder for proving he's in Christian's league thus far as they reached crunch time of the match. Christian landed a flying forearm before hitting a fallaway reverse DDT for a two count. Christian followed with a dropkick from the second rope, then the top rope. Both men winded as Ryder blocked a corner DDT and dropped Christian across the top rope. Ryder followed with a leg whip for another close call. Striker said he's rooting for Zack Ryder. Christian then scored with a Tornado DDT after a second try and scored another two count.

At 15:00, Ryder blocked a corner charge, then wanted the Zack Attack, but Christian blocked and hit the pendulum kick. Christian followed with a D.J. Gabriel European Uppercut from the second rope. He then dropped Ryder with the Killswitch and made the cover for the win. Post-match: Striker continued to put over Ryder for putting up a good fight against the ECW champion. They showed high points of the match, then cut to a shot of Christian celebrating with the ECW Title belt to close the show.

WINNER: Christian in 16:00. Really nice singles match. The slow, methodical pace didn't take away from the match, but rather allowed the key elements of the match to stand out including Ryder standing tall throughout, taking Christian's offense, dishing out his own offense, and Striker putting over Ryder lasting a while against the champ. Ryder needs to be in that main event picture. I don't think he lost much from taking a clean loss, but rather benefited from being in this position with so much time invested in his character tonight. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 31 2009, 12:16 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34026.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. TYSON KIDD (w/D.H. Smith and Natalya)

Nice, steady pace to start things off. So refreshing to listen to Jim Ross setting the table for the match. He gave us some elements of Morrison spending more time out of the ring working on his mat-based game to balance his aerial attack while Kidd is continuing to hone his mat skills from the Hart Dungeon. Morrison broke the slower pace with a nice flurry before a Shawn Michaels-esque kip up led to a spinning leg drop for a two count. Match moved to the ring apron where Kidd nailed a high-impact neckbreaker across the apron. Safe move that looked painful. Well done. Back in the ring, Kidd went to work on the neck with a chinlock. Kidd then discarded Morrison to the outside and held off the ref to give Smith an opening to blast J-Mo on the floor. Morrison in trouble heading to break.

"Ask him, ref, ask him!" Kidd greeted us back from break with a reverse chinlock on Morrison. Morrison broke free with a fallaway back drop and 7-Eleven sponsored the replay. Get a Slurpee! Morrison then went aerial on his comeback with a Pele soccer kick and leg whip lariat for a two count. Kidd came back with a kick strike, but Morrison ran him over near the ropes and took Kidd to the floor. Morrison teased a top rope move, but Smith and Natalya shielded Kidd. Ref had enough of HD and gave 'em a ticket to the back. Morrison then blasted Kidd with a sweet corkscrew splash on the floor.

Back in the ring, Morrison wanted the Moonlight Drive, but Kidd countered and went back on the attack. They had a pin exchange before Kidd nailed a double foot dropkick to the side of the head for a close count. Morrison then rolled through on a sunset flip attempt and smashed Kidd in the face with a kick strike. Morrison paused in the corner to build anticipation, then he hit the Starship Pain corkscrew moonsault for the pin and the win. Ross hyped Hardy vs. Morrison for Smackdown tomorrow night. Combine a high-energy finish with Ross's textbook sales pitch and I think people would pay money for Friday night to get here already. Morrison got his shine post-match as Ross and Grisham continued to hype the World Title match tomorrow night.

WINNER: Morrison in 13:00. Always a good thing to get that "please don't let this match end" feeling. WWE delivered that with all four matches in the recent Rey Mysterio vs. Chris Jericho series. This one had it too. Morrison was great getting the crowd behind him, Kidd was great cutting off Morrison's comebacks, and they had a nice finish that could have been stretched another two minutes to really have a memorable match. (***1/4)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. YOSHI TATSU

Match moved to the floor early on where Regal smashed Yoshi into the ring apron. Ref Robinson started a ten count and Yoshi made it back in at six, only to be greeted by a series of stomps from Regal. Regal with an exploder suplex before settling into a Million Dollar Dream. Yoshi escaped, then landed a kick strike, but Regal ducked a slap and executed a brainbuster out of the butterfly suplex position. Nice. Yoshi then fired himself up and nailed a Waltman-like spin kick for a two count. Yoshi corner mounted Regal for consecutive chops, but Regal pushed him down. He then landed the running knee strike on a stunned Yoshi, who spun around and fell to the mat. Regal with the pin for the win, giving Yoshi his first WWE TV loss.

WINNER: Regal in 4:00. Quick-paced, aggressive TV match. The series is 1-1 setting up a little rubber match on a future episode of ECW TV. Basic wrestling program to build up Yoshi, give him something to work with, and give Regal a purpose on the ECW brand right now. (*1/4)

3 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. PRIMO COLON -- non-title match

Orton with a one-up, then he stared a hole through Primo with his sinister eyes. Primo then surprised Orton with a series of deep arm drags that flustered Orton and sent him rolling to the outside to collect himself. Back in the ring, Orton landed clubbing blows on Primo, who came back with a series of dropkicks. Primo missed a third, then rolled to the outside. Odd edit. They cut to break with Orton in control.

They came back with Orton in control "sending a message" to John Cena by stomping and pounding on Carlito. Cole sold the Summerslam re-match of the re-match of the re-match of Orton vs. Cena as the "renewal of a personal feud." Announcers also talked about Orton having something to prove to "critics" who say Orton isn't capable of keeping the WWE Title without help from DiBiase and Rhodes. Orton continued his methodical attack, but walked into a side Russian legsweep. Primo followed with a running European uppercut into a dropkick. Building momentum. Primo then went up top and hit a missile dropkick for a close two count. He got his close-call, then Orton ducked a springboard splash and started to stalk Primo. Orton nailed the RKO without a counter to actually get the move over since he hardly ever hits the move when he telegraphs it ahead of time. Orton with the pin for the win. They closed the show with Orton walking out of the ring with some measure of confidence away from Raw when he's routinely booked to be back-pedaling away from competition, namely Triple H, John Cena, celebrity guest hosts, or anyone with a pulse.

WINNER: Orton in 10:00. Good TV main event. Primo benefited from working with the champ (albeit not a credible champ right now) and having some close nearfalls after showcasing his offense. Orton just needed to look credible. They have to start somewhere building to Orton-Cena at Summerslam. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 31 2009, 11:15 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-30-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1007138.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Hernandez defeated Samoa Joe (with Taz) in 4:31. Hernandez impressed early with a delayed vertical suplex. Both men traded power moves and before Hernandez grabbed the advantage. Joe fought back and attempted a superplex. Hernandez pushed him off and hit a top rope splash for the clean win...

After the match, Taz and Joe were steaming as JB interviewed Hernandez on the floor. Hernandez said he was back, he was healthy, and he would become the first Latino TNA World Heavyweight Champion...

Twill's Two Cents: Wow; surprising finish. I wasn't thrilled with Joe losing an opening match on Impact, but I love that Hernandez got this win. That is the thing; Joe is not any less important because of Hernandez defeating him and Hernandez is elevated severely.

2. A.J. Styles defeated Matt Morgan in the first match of a best of three series in 5:46. Tenay announced a Steel Asylum match at Hard Justice to determine the number one contender for the X Division Championship. Morgan dominated with his power in the first few minutes. Morgan applied what looked like a reverse chokeslam and threw him into the corner for a two count.

Morgan crotched himself on the top rope. Styles hit two dropkicks to take Morgan off his feet. He hit the springboard flying forearm for a two count. Styles countered a side suplex with the Pele. He hit a springboard 450 halfway across the ring for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Typical power vs. speed match between these two. The finish with Styles was amazing. As good as he is, he always seems to impress.

3. Awesome Kong (with Raisha Saeed), ODB (with Cody Deaner) and Tara defeated The Beautiful People (Velvet Sky, Madison Rayne, and TNA Knockout Champion Angelina Love) in 10:06. Tara and Angelina began the match. Angelina enjoyed an early advantage but Tara hit a powerslam for a nearfall. TBP broke up the pinfall and chaos ensued. ODB tagged in and dominated Madison Rayne...

Back from commercial, Kong tagged in and Tara gave her a dirty look. Kong decided to beat the shit out of Tara and they fought to the back. A shot of the Motor City Machine Guns in the crowd was shown. They had signs that said, "Conspiracy Theory" and "Yes, we work here." ...

Twill's Two Cents: Glad to see the Guns again and I hope this leads to big things for them.

4. The British Invasion defeated Team 3D in a tables match to win the New Japan Tag Team Titles in 9:35. The match started with Team 3D hitting the ring and beating up all five guys...

Back from commercial, Doug Williams was working on Brother Ray outside of the ring and Brutus Magnus and Brother Devon fought into the crowd. Ray finally got Williams back into the ring. Everyone tried to interfere but Ray hit bionic elbows on all of them.

Devon grabbed a table and rolled it into the ring. The Invasion came back and suplexed Ray, but Devon moved the table out of the way. Dave Hebner took a ref bump. Rob Terry came in and took out Team 3D. Devon powerbombed Magnus through a table, but Young hit Devon with a belt and set up him as if he went through the table. The referee saw it and rang the bell...

Twill's Two Cents: Ugh. What was that? Six on two? Anyway, fun brawl I guess that ended predictably after the ref bump. With a six on two advantage, the Invasion should not have needed a ref bump and screwy finish to get the win.

5. Mick Foley and Bobby Lashley defeated Kurt Angle and Kevin Nash when Foley pinned Nash to win the TNA Legends Title in 6:31. The match started as a handicapped match as Foley gutted out the attack and took what Nash and Angle had to offer.

The extra fifteen minutes began with Foley hitting a double arm DDT on Angle and following up with a mandible claw. Nash hit a big boot and Angle locked in the ankle lock. The lights went out and Sting's music hit. When the lights came back on, Sting was in the crowd pointing at Angle and Nash with his bat.

The lights went out again and when they came back on, Lashley was in the ring with a wrap around his head. Lashley took out Angle and Nash at the same time. He hit a spear on Nash and Foley pinned him to win the Legends Title.

Twill's Two Cents: When the lights went out, Angle was the legal man and Foley pinned Nash, so don't be surprised to see that pointed out next week. Average match on an average show. Hernandez beating Joe was the highlight of the show for me.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 01 2009, 12:49 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-31-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34047.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPAR & JTG) vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) -- #1 contender match to Unified tag titles

Shad ran over Smith in the early going and Smith sold a head injury. Kidd then blind-tagged himself into the match and chop-blocked Shad from behind to take his knee out. Kidd started screaming as he worked over Shad's left knee. Kidd then knocked Shad to the outside and Smith did some heavy lifting behind the ref's back leading to a break. CT in trouble...so it seems.

Hart Dynasty continued to work over Shad, then JTG took a red-hot tag and cleaned house. JTG hit a leaping leg lariat from the second rope on Kidd, the legal man, but Kidd kicked out. Kidd then cut JTG off and nailed a springboard blockbuster for a close count. JTG tried to come back with a sunset flip, but Kidd kicked out. Nice exchange, then the action broke down. Men everywhere as Shad, the big man, took out Smith, the big man. Back in the ring, JTG tried to steal a win with a hook of the tights on Kidd, but Kidd kicked out. JTG then hit a wrap-his-forearms-around-the-neck-and-slam-the-opponent Shout-Out for the pin and the win. JTG and Shad then celebrated the win with JTG as they realized their good fortune of a title match.,

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme in 8:00. Good tag match with a very nice finish focused on JTG vs. Tyson Kidd. I'd like to see a one-on-one between them down the road. Nice, high-energy tag match with something on the line. (**)

2 -- Women's champion MICHELLE McCOOL & LAYLA vs. MELINA & EVE TORRES

McCool and Melina had a solid singles match at the PPV, so they picked up the feud with the supporting cast in the Women's division. Back and forth action to start, then Melina took a hot tag and the action broke down. McCool then blasted the crap out of Melina with a kick to the face. She took a legal tag, then slid into the ring and wanted a Widow's Peak-like "Faith Breaker" on Melina, but Melina countered in mid-air with the Canadian Destroyer for the pin and the win. Great counter.

WINNERS: Melina & Eve in 4:00. Story here was Melina scoring a pin over the champ to continue the feud. Fine, high-energy match that carried over from the Melina-McCool singles match at the PPV. (*)

3 -- IC champ REY MYSTERIO & FINLAY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & MIKE KNOX

Knox tried to show off his power early on with a powerbomb on Rey, but Rey blocked and teased the 619. Knox avoided it, but Rey landed an enziguiri kick instead. Finlay then tagged in and gave Knox the Rolling Hills drop for a two count. Why doesn't anyone just pull his beard into submission? Is there a code of honor against using facial hair as a weapon? Anyways, Knox took out Finlay's knee and began working him over. Dolph then tagged in and got some of Finlay's knee and leg. Knox then knocked Rey off the apron, rekindling those warm and fuzzy ... and perhaps gassy feelings from the Rey-Knox feud on Raw. Finlay continued to tease a hot tag to Rey, but Knox kept cutting him off. Dolph took a tag, then missed with a corner splash on Finlay allowing Rey to get a tag.

Rey quickly dialed up 619 for a smash on Dolph. He followed with the trademark springboard splash for the apparent pin, but Knox yanked Rey to the floor to break up the pin. Finlay took Knox out, then Dolph tried to take Finlay out, but Rey snuck in the back door and grappled Dolph from behind. He rolled him up and scored a pin with Dolph nearly in the ropes. Looked like Dolph "broke the plane" of the bottom rope, but ref allowed the pin to be counted for the win.

WINNERS: Mysterio & Finlay in 10:00. Another good, high-energy tag match on the show. Would have liked to have seen Dolph get a chance to stand tall and not take "The Miz treatment" from Miz's program against John Cena, but this was about giving the fans a "feel good" moment with Rey and Finlay winning. (*1/2)

4 -- GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) vs. CHARLIE HAAS

A little buffer match action before the main event tonight. Khali methodically picked apart Haas before telling Haas to get up on his feet. Haas obliged and took The Chop to the head. Khali told Haas to get up again. Haas was ready to be finished, but Kane suddenly showed up in the ring, then ran away when Khali approached him. Kane took Singh hostage on the floor and dragged him up the rampway. Khali "gave chase" as only Khali can do, then Kane dropped Singh and walked away. Khali leaned down to check on Singh while staring back at Kane. End segment.

WINNER: No Decision in 2:00. Just a continuation of the Khali vs. Kane feud. Looks like a Summerslam match is on the horizon, or perhaps just a Smackdown TV "main event" leading to Summerslam. WWE should book a sumo wrestling match or test-of-strength or arm-wrestling contest or some gimmick match that takes advantage of their size as a spectacle without having to wrestle a long, drawn-out regular wrestling match. (n/a)

5 -- World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. JOHN MORRISON -- World Hvt. Title match

Jim Ross referenced "Superstar" Billy Graham's famous 1977 WWWF Title victory over Bruno Sammartino in Baltimore that ended Bruno's three-and-a-half-year reign to set the stage for tonight's match. Morrison started aggressively with a flurry of offense to take it to the champ. He then slingshot Hardy over the top rope to the floor. Nice move. Morrison teased a springboard dive on the floor, but Hardy moved out of the way. Morrison waited, then nailed a sweet springboard moonsault onto Hardy on the floor. Awesome move. They cut to break with Morrison in control.

They returned with Morrison still in control. This time, he was in the ring with a headlock on Hardy to work him over on the mat. On cue, WWE replayed the sweet moonsault leading into the commercial break. Hardy broke free of the headlock and teased a Twist of Fate, but Morrison countered by sling shotting Hardy throat-first across the top rope. Morrison teased the Starship Pain finisher, but Hardy moved and hit the Whisper in the Wind for a two count. Nice exchange. Both men recovered on the mat, then Hardy settled into a reverse chinlock. Ross told us some stories about two-out-of-three fall matches back in the day that gave some wiggle room to make a mistake. He nicely contrasted that to there being no room for error in a one-fall match with a major title on the line, meaning every move is important. Morrison made a comeback and nailed a standing moonsault for a two count. Morrison and Hardy then punched each other simultaneously in the corner and both men crashed down to the floor. Both men in jeopardy going to break.

At 15:00, they returned with Morrison and Hardy exchanging control. Hardy landed a signature double-foot dropkick for a two count, then he wiped his hair back and thought about his next move. Hardy took Morrison to the floor and whipped him back-first into the guardrail. Hardy then ran off the ring steps and nailed a leg lariat that left both men KO'ed on the floor. Back in the ring, Hardy wanted the Whisper in the Wind, but Morrison ducked and smashed Hardy in the face with a running knee strike. He only scored a close two count, though. Morrison then wanted a springboard smash, but Hardy ducked. Morrison followed with a leaping leg lariat for another two count. Morrison so athletic. It's just ridiculous. Morrison then crotched Hardy across the top rope and landed a springboard enziguiri kick. The flying chuck had Hardy KO'ed, but Hardy kicked out just before three.

At 20:00, Hardy came back with a faceplant suplex. He then went up top and teased the Swanton Bomb and connected. Hardy needed some extra time to make the cover, though, and Morrison kicked out in a shock to the crowd. "Oh my!" Ross exclaimed. Grisham hyped Morrison's resilience in the biggest match of his career. Hardy then tried his lift-up dropkick out of the corner, but Morrison kicked him in the gut to block. Morrison wanted to follow with the Starship Pain, but Hardy got the knees up to block. Hardy hit the Twist of Fate, then went up top. He wanted the Swanton Bomb and connected again. Hardy didn't hesitate and made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 24:00 to retain the World Hvt. Title. What a match. Dang, that was awesome. What stood out? Morrison's athleticism, Hardy scoring the win, and the crowd almost itching for a title change, but still very satisfied with Hardy winning. Roles reversed from when the crowd was itching for Hardy to win over Punk. Overall, match was a clear contender for Match of the Month. Just great athleticism from two of WWE's top stars. Morrison has arrived as a main eventer if he hadn't already. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 04 2009, 02:46 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34102.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER

Bourne used his quickness to avoid Swagger's power offense early on, but Swagger blocked a standing moonsault with knees to the gut. He then followed up with a gut wrench powerbomb for the decisive pin and the win. After the match, Swagger delivered two running Vader Bombs out of the corner. He was going to give Bourne another gutwrench, but MVP hit the ring in street clothes to clear out Swagger. MVP stood over Bourne as Swagger quietly left the ring confident in his work tonight.

WINNER: Swagger at 2:10. Pretty much a wash after last week. Just doesn't make any sense. Bourne with an upset last week, now a chump this week. Swagger a chump last week, now a big bully this week. Self-defeating booking. And with no pre-match build for a second "Raw dream match" between Bourne and Swagger, the program doesn't have any steam. Incompetent booking. (*)

2 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES & GAIL KIM vs. JILLIAN HALL & BETH PHOENIX

Gail started things off, but Mickie quickly tagged in and took a beating from Beth. Beth and Jillian worked Mickie over for a while, then Mickie escaped with a head scissors and hot-tagged Gail. Beth then blind-sided Gail after taking a tag that Gail didn't see. Beth then delivered the double chickenwing facebuster on Gail and scored a pin for the win as Mickie was apparently occupied elsewhere.

WINNERS: Beth & Jillian at 3:25. Just a re-building effort for Beth after being off TV for a while. They didn't tease any dissension between Gail and Mickie after they seemed to be going there last week. (*)

3 -- TRIPLE H vs. CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR. -- handicap match

Match started with Cody and Hunter going at it with Hunter taking the upperhand. DiBiase tagged in, nearly took the Pedigree, then was clotheslined over the top rope to the floor. On cue, DiBiase took a clothesline to the floor. Imagine that, Hunter standing tall going to break. This has been such a bad show thus far that I'm not in the mood for SuperHunter tonight.

Cody had Hunter in a headlock coming out of the break. During the break, DiBiase slingshot Hunter across the top rope to get the advantage for Legacy. Cody and Ted continued to work over Hunter heading into the second hour. Cody attempted a top rope moonsault at 8:30, but Hunter rolled out of the way and Cody ate the mat. Cody tried to make a tag to DiBiase, but Hunter reached his feet and smashed DiBiase off the apron. Hunter then ran DiBiase into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Hunter with a "vintage" high knee on Rhodes. He landed a facebuster across the knee before running Rhodes into DiBiase off the ropes. Hunter with the Double A spinebuster, then he measured Rhodes for the Pedigree. Suddenly, DiBiase snuck in the back door and hit the Dream Street finisher. All three men were down in the ring. Rhodes then made the cover, but Hunter kicked out at two. Cody sold shock over the pin escape. He then hit the Cross Rhodes spinning facebuster in center ring. (I didn't even realize Cody had a finisher since he never wins matches.) Rhodes with the pin and...the win. Wow, Hunter didn't kick out.

WINNERS: DiBiase & Rhodes at 11:13. It was quite shocking to see Legacy win this clean, but the post-match set-up for Shawn Michaels to return made sense of this so people will actually pay money to see the probable Hunter & HBK vs. Legacy match at Summerslam with Legacy having the slightest edge on Hunter in the TV build-up. Match itself was good with the crowd hot for the nearfalls and Hunter in jeopardy. (**)

4 -- PRIMO COLON vs. CARLITO COLON

Match spilled to the outside early on and Primo landed a plancha splash. Lawler said their father, Carlos Colon, is probably torn about his sons facing each other. Carlito kicked out of Primo's attempted finisher, then Carlito nailed the backstabber for the decisive pin and the win.

WINNER: Carlito at 2:58. They have the big brother vs. brother match after the split and they give them three minutes to have a match the audience didn't care about because there wasn't any pre-match hype or reason to care about the issues that WWE hasn't established? More inane booking. Primo didn't benefit from this at all. (*)

5 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MARK "SWOGGLE" HENRY

Henry played around early, then Chavo irritated Henry by trying to land offense, so Henry chased him to the outside. Henry then scooped up Chavo and teased the World's Strongest Slam all across the arena. He finally delivered the move, then scored the pin for the easy win.

WINNER: Henry at 1:07. At least this keeps Chavo employed with a paycheck coming on a regular basis. These extended family hour segments should be reserved for the house shows, not taking up TV time when WWE can't build up any stars because they throw out matches like Swagger-Bourne and Colon-Colon without any hype. (n/a)

6 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. Unified tag champion BIG SHOW -- U.S. Title match

Show beat up Kofi all around the ring early on as Jericho hyped his tag team and himself. Jericho got tongue-tied trying to say he was the most-trending topic on Twitter yesterday. Talking takes its toll on the tongue. Torch Talk with Tom Tom. Anyways, Show had a pin on Kofi, but Kofi put his foot on the bottom rope to escape a pin. Jericho ripped Lawler for not having any WWE titles to his name to hype how many titles Show and Jericho have between them. Show wanted the Vader Bomb, but Kofi kicked Show in the back of the leg to knock Show down. He then smashed Show with the Trouble in Paradise buzzsaw kick. Kofi didn't make a cover, but opted to hit a top rope Boom Boom leg drop. Kofi with the pin, but Show bench-pressed Kofi out of the pin. Show suddenly speared Kofi in mid-ring to cut him off. Show then punched Kofi several times in the corner. Ref reached a five count after they foreshadowed a near-DQ earlier in the match. Show was DQ'ed, but he went back to beating up Kofi. Jericho entered the ring to trash-talk Kofi, who tried to catch his breath. Show then posed over Jericho, who smugly looked into the audience to close the segment.

WINNER: Kofi via DQ at 5:08. Good segment thanks to Jericho on commentary and the conflict between whether Show would win the title vs. how he would get DQ'ed or counted out so Kofi would keep the title. There was no way Kofi was winning this match via pin or submission, so the "angst in the arena" was Show winning or Kofi escaping. Not sure where this leads to, but something needs to be built-up for Kofi (if he's even going to be on the PPV) with only two more weeks of Raw remaining before Summerslam and Show/Jericho in a tag title match. (*1/4)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ -- Lumberjack match

Cena dumped Miz to the outside early on, then Chavo and Dr. Ken checked on Miz before helping him back up to his feet. Miz, fully recovered, slid into the ring, but Cena cut him off. The heel jacks then distracted Cena allowing Miz to bump Cena to the outside. Masters slapped on the Masterlock and Cena sold breaking free, but Masters re-locked the hold and KO'ed Cena. Jacks then rolled Cena into the ring and Miz made a cover, but Cena grabbed the bottom rope. Miz then covered Cena center-ring, but Cena kicked out. Cena made a comeback, but Orton pulled Cena to the floor and the heel jacks stomped and pounded and kicked away on Cena. Legacy then rolled Cena into the ring and Dr. Ken handed Miz his pimp cane. Cena ducked the shot, though, and scooped up Miz for the FU. Just like that. Cena made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 5:10. Well, there goes Miz just like that. Three things come to mind: he's moving to a different brand, Wellness, or WWE gave up on him for some inane reason, which would be consistent with the inane booking on this show. SuperCena wins again. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 05 2009, 01:42 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 8-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34143.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DANNY DANGER

Danger with zero face time as Jackson destroyed him, then hit the lift-up Rock Bottom for the pin and the win. After the match, Kozlov's music hit and he stomped out to the ring for another Ivan Drago vs. Mr. T confrontation. Kozlov stared down Jackson as they tried to build tension for this Rocky villain deal. Kozlov then gave DD a lift-up Rock Bottom and cracked his neck to say that was no big deal. Jackson then gave DD a lift-up Rock Bottom and stomped out of the ring. Kozlov was left in the ring staring down Jackson.

WINNER: Jackson in 1:00. Week 3 of the program. Just keep building layers. Crowd was at least into the tease of a villain vs. villain confrontation. (n/a)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. GOLDUST

Sheamus started landing boots on Goldust early on. Suddenly, Goldust sold a shoulder injury with the ref checking on him. Sheamus licked his lips and started attacking the shoulder. He landed a single arm DDT for a two count, then wore Goldust down with more mat holds focused on the shoulder. Goldust tried to sneak in a small package for a pin, but Sheamus kicked out and went back to working over the shoulder. Goldust made a comeback at 3:00 with a series of clotheslines, then the drop-down uppercut. He executed a powerslam for a two count, then sold the shoulder. Goldust tried a move from the second rope, but Sheamus cut his legs out from under him and Goldust crashed to the mat. Sheamus made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Sheamus took the mic ringside and said he came in search for gold, but all they gave him was dust. Goldust then jumped Sheamus from behind and blasted him into the guardrail. Striker said it's the renewed aggression they need to see from Goldust for him to be successful. Sheamus then bailed up the ramp as Goldust was held back by the ref. Goldust, half-way out of character with half of his paint left on, screamed at Sheamus to come get some. Sheamus opted to back away up the entrance ramp to end the segment.

WINNER: Sheamus in 4:00. Okay singles match. Post-match from Goldust was good to keep the programming going. As long as Goldust isn't playing with rats backstage with RELLIK, I'll take a program from Goldust with some purpose. (1/2*)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- ECW Title match -- Extreme Rules

Bell sounded and they started with some basic mat holds. Crowd wasn't in the mood for basic wrestling, instead chanting for tables. Do they think they're watching a Team 3D match? Dreamer retrieved a Kendo stick and Christian grabbed a trashcan lid. Extreme Sword-fighting ensued with Christian blocking with the lid. On the floor, Dreamer blasted Christian with a stick shot before landing a move from The Sandman's playbook, a Russian legsweep using the cane around the throat. Christian recovered and baseball slid-kicked a trashcan into Dreamer on the floor. Christian followed with a splash off the top rope before smashing him with the can. Christian then broke a crutch over Dreamer's back in front of the hot dog stand. Christian tried to get a running start on a splash, but Dreamer moved and Christian ate the hot dog...stand. Dreamer with a condiment dispenser shot to the head before shoving some hot dogs down Christian's throat. Dreamer in control as they cut the mustard to the break.

They returned to the match with Dreamer and Christian bashing each other with weapons in the ring. Match moved to the floor where Dreamer back dropped Christian onto the floor padding. Dreamer then clotheslined Christian over the guardrail to the front row. He tried a can shot, but Christian ducked and hit a textbook dropkick sending the can into Dreamer's chest. Crowd with a dueling chant. Back in the ring, Dreamer sent Christian head-first into a trashcan in the corner. Dreamer then hit a Pumphandle slam with the Singapore cane beneath the crotch for a two count. On cue, Christian regained control with a neckbreaker across the top rope.

At the top of the hour, Christian went up top and chucked a t-can down at Dreamer's head for a two count. Christian tried a Tornado DDT off the top into two cans, but Dreamer blocked and threw Christian into the stack of cans for a two count. Dreamer then hung Christian upside down in the corner and put a can over his head. Dreamer with the E-pound the chest-C-pound the chest-W running crutch shot to the can into Christian's face. Christian, on cue, recovered after another more no-selling and started smashing Dreamer with weapon shots. Christian then grabbed the car door that hadn't come into play yet and sent it into the ring. Dreamer blocked a running car door shot with a trashcan lid shot to the head through the open car door window. LOL. Dreamer then wanted a piledriver onto the car door, but Christian countered, of course, with the Killswitch into the car door for the pin and the win. After they replayed the highspots of the match, Christian was shown celebrating with the title belt to close the show.

WINNER: Christian in 16:00 to retain the ECW Title. Good gimmick match, but the lack of long-term selling - or any selling of moves at all - was annoying after the fifteenth instance. Seemed like a write-off for Dreamer in the main event picture since this was his title re-match after losing the belt at Night of Champions. If I had to take a guess, Kozlov and Jackson are going to be inserted into the title picture now. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 07 2009, 11:41 am
WWE Superstars Results: 8-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34209.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Santino had a big smile as they danced around the ring before locking up. Masters shoved Santino to the mat, then Santino did a back roll and came up saluting himself "ta da!" Santino did it again after Masters shoved him down, expecting Santino to sell the shove. So great. Even beter was Santino surprising Masters with the Masterlock at 2:00, but Masters was like "oh heck no," so he broke the hold and started pounding Santino. Something went flying as Santino tried a chinbreaker. Looked like Masters lost a tooth. Referee picked up the object moments later and tossed it out of the ring. Santino started to Hulk Up as Masters taunted him. Santino: "You ah make me ah so anger." Santino started no-selling, then did a Ron Killings leg split to duck a clothesline, and wanted to make Masters pay with his finisher, but Masters blocked and slapped on the Masterlock. Santino had no choice but to tap to the Masterpiece. Afterward, Santino sold dizziness as Masters celebrated the win.

WINNER: Masters in 4:00, fans with Santino. Santino was great enhancing his character before taking the scripted loss. Masters looked dominant at the end, but Santino was the takeaway. (*)

2 -- TYLER REKS & YOSHI TATSU vs. WILLIAM REGAL & PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Yoshi started off against Regal to pick up their current feud locked at one victory apiece. Reks then tagged in and Mathews let fly with the surfer-related puns. Actually just watched the Blue Crush surfer movie last week. Nice little flick. The Englishmen had enough of Reks and his surfing, so they dumped him to the floor and stood tall going to break.

Back from break, Reks was working over Regal's shoulder. Who says WWE doesn't change it up every once in a while when the babyfaces are usually in control going to break and the heels are in control working a body part back from break. Right on cue, Yoshi lost control of the match. Burchill tagged in, then Yoshi blasted him with a round of kicks and body blows. He landed a kick to the face out of the corner, but Regal distracted Yoshi allowing Burchill to kick Yoshi in the left knee/ankle area. Burchill and Regal then targeted the body part to cut off Yoshi from his corner.

Reks took a hot tag at 10:00 and fired off a series of dropkicks on Regal, who was the legal man. Reks executed a nice suplex for a two count, then hit a clothesline off the ropes. Yoshi cleared Burchill to the floor to clear them out of the picture. Reks then came off the top with a splash on Regal, but Regal rolled through and trapped Reks's leg for a pin and the win.

WINNERS: Regal & Burchill in 11:00. Fine tag match, but not memorable. Work a body part, get the hot tag, set up the finish, and who see who comes out on top. Burchill was actually on the winning side of things for the first time in forever, but he still couldn't get a pinfall. (*1/4)

3 -- Intercontinental champion REY MYSTERIO vs. MIKE KNOX -- non-title match

Match started with Knox aggressively beating Rey into the mat. Dolph sounded a little unsure of himself on commentary to start with. Maybe not the right environment for him compared to having a mic in his hand to cut a promo. We'll see as the match goes on. Rey eventually regained control with a seated sentaun splash that knocked Knox to the floor. Rey in control, Dolph on his feet staring down Rey, and let's grab a break.

Back from break, Knox was blasting Rey in the corner as Dolph watched intently from ringside. Rey suddenly snapped off a head scissors from the top rope that knocked Knox to the ring apron. Knox shoved Rey down, then blasted Rey with a clothesline from his knees to cut off Rey's momentum. Knox then landed a big bicycle kick that knocked Rey over the ropes to the floor. Rey teased being counted out, but he made it back in the ring at nine. Knox picked up his attack and slapped on a bear hug to wear down Rey. Grisham tried to involve Dolph in the proceedings by asking him where he got his swagger from. Dolph said it's just natural. Dolph selling focus on the match to scout his potential Summerslam opponent.

Rey made a comeback at 12:00 with the double-foot dropkick and a kick strike to the head, but Knox kicked out of a pin attempt. Knox then cut Rey off again with a power move as the fans chanted "6-1-9." Knox wanted a sidewalk slam, but Rey countered with a DDT for a two count. Rey then wanted to dial up the 619 and he connected. He tried to follow with the springboard splash for the win, but Dolph yanked Rey off the apron to cause a DQ. Post-match: Dolph tried to assault Rey, then feed him to Knox, but Rey escaped Dolph and Knox to head for safer ground on the floor. Grisham sold Smackdown tomorrow night for the #1 contender match to the IC Title, then the show ended with Rey safe on stage.

WINNER: Rey via DQ in 14:00. One of those TV singles matches that was just there. Everything was fine and followed the right script to continue the Rey vs. Dolph feud, but viewers just don't have information on Knox to emotionally invest in his character for nearly 15 minutes. He has a beard, his teeth look weird, and he beats up people. Well, that might pass for the "squash match" stage, but it doesn't mean much of anything over a period of time. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 07 2009, 11:13 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 8-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34211.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) DANIELS (w/SABIN & SHELLEY) vs. ERIC YOUNG (w/KIYOSHI & BASHIR)

Daniels watches the Guns as they amble down to the ring, which lets EY get the jump on him. Daniels turns things around with a Leg Lariat, and hits a charging forearm in the corner. Kiyoshi pulls Young out of the ring for a breather, but Daniels follows them out with a Suicide Dive style Double Clothesline. The Guns are conspicuously absent as Bashir ambushes Daniels and rolls him back to the ring. Young gets a two count as The Guns review video game manuals. See, that's just not believable—real players NEVER read the manuals. Anyway, a Back Drop by Young gets two. He chokes Daniels against the corner, but Daniels gets back up firing. EY puts him down with a Neck Breaker, and floats right into a Crossface. I like high-impact-into-submission combos. Young places Daniels with a Body Slam, but whiffs on a Moonsault attempt off the top rope. Daniels comes back with a series of strikes, culminating with a high knee into the corner. He places Young on the top rope and flips him back down to the mat for a long two count. A Sit Out Power Bomb gets two more. Daniels hits his Ura-Nage (it might have been an STO), and the crowd chants for the BME. Young rolls out of the way, but Daniels lands on his feet. Bashir goes to the apron to distract the ref while Kiyoshi rolls in to spray mist into the eyes of Daniels. Young finishes Daniels off with a Pile Driver. I get worried that they're again devaluing the move, but they do continue to stress on commentary the code against using it.

WINNER: Eric Young in six minutes. That match told about as sophisticated a story as you can get into a six-minute match. So far is so good tonight.

(2) STEINER & BOOKER T. & DOUG WILLIAMS & ROB TERRY vs. BEER MONEY INC. & TEAM 3D

Steiner starts things off with some right hands that take Brother Ray down in the corner. He lays in with some stomps and follows up with a pair of Eye Rakes. He hits a Body Slam, but comes off the ropes and into a Side Slam for two. A Splash gets two more. Devon and Doug Williams tag in. Williams hits a quick European Uppercut, but Devon ducks beneath a right hand and comes back with a Spinning Elbow. Devon pounds Williams for a few seconds before tagging in Storm. Williams quickly takes back control with a poke to the eyes, but Storm comes right back with some weird new bouncing Rock Bottom variation for a long two count. Williams reverses a whip into the corner, but Storm gets a leg up and bounces back with a Running Neck Breaker. He tags in Roode, and they nail the Beer Money Suplex. Rob Terry tags in while they play to the crowd. He Double Clotheslines both members of Beer Money and effortlessly floors Roode with a Body Slam. He goozles Roode for a Short Arm Clothesline. He looks for a Running Power Slam, but Rood slips out and starts kicking his legs. Terry tosses him into the corner, but Roode comes back with a Floating Throwback off the top rope. The heels come in to break up the ensuing cover, and everything breaks down. Ray ends up in the ring with Doug Williams. They hit the Wuzzup, but when Ray sends Devon for the tables all hell breaks loose. Eric Young comes down with Kiyoshi & Bashir, but they're ambushed on the way down by Daniels and The Motor City Machine Guns. Kevin Nash comes out to take out the Guns, but he's attacked from behind by Mick Foley. Kurt Angle comes out to attack Foley, and Sting and Samoa Joe meander down to the ring to get involved. Tenay: "This has turned into a riot". As Lashley and Joe fight into the back, Tracy Brooks at ringside knocks Roode off the top rope and into a Rob Terry Choke Slam for the three.

WINNERS: Steiner, Booker, Williams & Terry in seven minutes. I really like the booking move of having this typically-show-ending brawl at 9:45. It really adds to the feeling that anything can happen at any time.

(3) "THE FUTURE LEGEND" ALISSA FLASH & TRACI BROOKS vs. TAYLOR WILDE & SARITA

This week Alissa gets a full entrance. Wilde starts things off with an Arm Drag on Traci Brooks. Traci whips her into the corner, but she comes back with a semi-botched Leg Scissors. Alissa Flash and Sarita tag in. Sarita hits a Hurricanrana to start. Flash whips her into the corner, but Sarita flips over her and drags her down by the arm. Alissa rolls out, so Sarita tags in Wilde. That enables Wilde to help Sarita to run to the top rope, from which she hits a huge Cross Body Block to the outside. Alissa and Wilde go back to the ring, but Traci gets Wilde's ankle from the outside. Flash grabs Wilde by the back of the head and slams her into the mat. A spinning Body Slam gets two. Traci tags in and hits a couple of quick chops. She chokes Wilde in the corner and bounces off her back. A running forearm gets two. Traci pops Sarita, which distraction allows Alissa to come in for the illegal double team. She stomps the back of Taylor's head as she and Traci tag in and out. Traci and Wilde both go for Cross Body Blocks, and are both able to make tags. Sarita kicks down Traci, flips over her, gets grabbed by Flash, then rolls into some crazy Rings of Saturn/Crossface/everything else submission. Flash gets up and grabs Sarita, who slips out and gets a quick Small Package for the kill.

WINNERS: Sarita and Taylor Wilde in five minutes. Every Sarita match takes twice as long to recap as to watch, since every move happens lightning fast.

(4) MATT MORGAN vs. AJ STYLES

Why even bother to have a second match in a best of three series? Morgan tosses AJ across the ring to start. Oddly, 30-40% of the crowd seem to be behind Morgan. AJ dodges out of the ring and yanks Morgan's legs out from under him. AJ starts working the left leg, but Morgan kicks him off and floors him with a Decapitator Clothesline. He hits his back elbows in the corner, then a big running Splash. He lifts AJ up for a Side Slam, looks at his non-existent watch, then just tosses AJ onto the mat. AJ gets back up firing, but walks right into a Fall Away Slam. Morgan hits his leap-over-choke thing that desperately needs a name, then an Undertaker-like Leg Drop on the apron for two. Morgan looks for a Choke Slam. AJ fights out, but gets caught again. This time he flips out and hits a jump kick to Morgan's head. He goes to the top rope for a Tornado DDT attempt. Morgan tosses him off and tries to nail a clothesline, but AJ ducks underneath and nails the Pele for two. AJ goes to the top rope. He sees Morgan coming for him, jumps out the apron, and kicks Morgan's legs out from under him. He goes for the 450-Splash; Morgan rolls out of the way, but AJ rolls onto his feet. AJ looks for a Wheelbarrow Faceplant, but gets tossed onto the ropes. Morgan puts him away with a Hellevator as he bounces back.

WINNER: Matt Morgan in six minutes. This show continues to surprise me, as AJ and Morgan do what any participant in a multi-match series should do by building on their past moves and finishes.

(5) BRUTUS MAGNUS (w/ROB TERRY & DOUG WILLIAMS) vs. STING

Slick Johnson bans Rob Terry and Doug Williams from ringside. Sting beats the living daylights out of Magnus in the corner, hip tosses him, and hits a high dropkick. This is the fastest I've seen Sting in months—I guess he just really needed a couple weeks off. Magnus runs around, then tries to beg off. He offers a handshake, but Sting isn't having it. Magnus hits a knee lift, a quick uppercut, a reverse elbow, and is suddenly working over Sting's left leg against the canvas.

Magnus is still in control, but gets caught by an Ensuguri. Sting Stingers up and starts pounding on Magnus. Magnus blocks the attempted Stinger Splash, but when he tries to come off the top rope with a Double Sledge he's caught in a Scorpion Death Lock. That's all she wrote.

WINNER: Sting in seven minutes. I think the entire match took place during commercials.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 08 2009, 01:21 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34242.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- C.M. PUNK vs. JEFF HARDY- WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Hardy attacked before the bell, and referee Scott Armstrong tried to restrain him. It didn’t work, so other referees and agents Dean Malenko and Mike Rotundo came out to separate the two. General Manager Teddy Long was out there as well. Once they were separated, Vince McMahon came out. Let’s get this out of the way....

WINNER: No Match.

1- JOHN MORRISON vs. TYSON KIDD

This is a re-match from last week’s episode of Superstars. The two men traded wrist-locks and Morrison worked Kidd’s arm into an arm-bar. Kidd was able to get away and into the ropes. Kidd yelping during his offense is really distracting. Dropsault by Morrison for two. Unique twisting legdrop for two as well. Kidd sent Morrison to the outside where Natalya attacked him from behind, then David Hart Smith did the same when the official was getting Natalya back away from Morrison. Kidd was in control back in the ring as they went to break.

Morrison tried to get out of a headlock, but Kidd kept it on and stayed aggressive. Lots of yelling from Kidd as well. Morrison elbowed out, but Kidd then applied a sleeper. Morrison fought back after flipping him off his back with a kick to the head and a clothesline. Standing moonsault for two. Kidd placed himself on Morrison’s shoulders, but Morrison put him down gently and rolled him up for two. Kidd put Morrison in a submission move, pinning his shoulders back with his arms. Blockbuster by Kidd that garnered him a two-count. Kidd dodged a knee to the head, but a hurricanrana attempt was turned into a powerbomb for two. Flying Chuck kick by Morrison and Starship Pain connected, “in the face!!!” as the cop from The Hangover would say- it looked brutal. But it also got the win for Morrison.

WINNER: Morrison, at 11:35. Another solid match between these two, especially the second half.

2- CHARLIE HAAS vs. SLAM MASTER J

At least Haas got an entrance this week. Slam Master J hails from the ATL, apparently Atlanta from what I gather. Haas went after J, who had corn-rows and wore jeans similar to R-Truth. Cryme Tyme and Eve were actually shown watching the match backstage. Belly-to-belly overhead suplex by Haas for two. This gave the announcers the opportunity to show just how uncool and white they were. Cobra Clutch back-breaker by Haas. Flying forearm by J as he started to come back. Atomic drop, then a clothesline on Haas. Crowd didn’t care much for this. Jesse went to the top, but Haas headbutted him. He tried a suplex, but J fought out of it. From the top, a flying splash got the win.

WINNER: Slam Master J, at 2:38. I think J is going to become the Santino of Smackdown, but not nearly on the comedy level Marella is/was.

3- R-TRUTH vs. FINLAY vs. MIKE KNOX vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER- FATAL FOUR-WAY TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Mysterio talked about fighting Knox and other giants such as Bam Bam Bigelow and Kevin Nash. All three men were down early with Knox standing tall...probably means he won’t win. They took a break at that point.

Finlay got his feet up on a Knox splash attempt in the corner back from break, but Ziggler dropkicked Finlay out of the ring and Truth low-bridged Knox. He then dove over the top onto Knox. It was left with Finlay and Ziggler, but Knox broke up a pin attempt by Finlay. Double DDT by Ziggler. The two heels did battle, but it was a draw, as they collided with each other. More pins broken up as Finlay double-crossed Truth. Truth with a twisting forearm for two on Knox, as Ziggler broke it up. Finlay used the Shillaleigh on Knox, but Ziggler hit Finlay with his finisher before Finlay could make the pin and Ziggler picked up the victory.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 7:45. Lots of action in this one.

4- CHRIS JERICHO vs. JTG

Jericho knocked down JTG and smiled, but JTG hit the ropes and then hit Jericho with a back elbow. Fameasser for two by JTG. As the ref admonished JTG, Jericho landed a cheap-shot right hand. He threw the Cryme Tyme member out of the ring, where Big Show kicked him in the gut behind the ref’s back. In the ring, Jericho worked the abdominal stretch. JTG countered, but Jericho got the knees up on a splash attempt. “Y2J” chants from some of the crowd. Another abdominal stretch. Shad attempted to get the crowd into it from the outside. JTG made his comeback and gave Jericho a facebuster out of the corner. He only got a two-count. Jericho went back on offense and taunted JTG and Shad. Take-down by JTG only got two after Jericho made a cardinal mistake and put his head down after whipping JTG into the ropes. Jericho tried to apply the Walls of Jericho, but JTG was catapulted. He landed feet-first on the second rope and legdropped Jericho while Y2J was on his feet. That got him a two as well. He then walked into a Codebreaker, but JTG was under the bottom rope. By the time Jericho realized this, JTG had enough time to recover, and he suckered Jericho into an inside cradle for the surprise win.

WINNER: JTG, at 6:32. I don’t think it’s any stretch to say this is the biggest singles win of JTG’s career. Standard Jericho TV match.

5- THE GREAT KHALI vs. RICKY ORTIZ

Clotheslines by Ortiz didn’t have much effect, but a chop to the head by Khali did. Punjabi Plunge, and it’s an easy night for Khali.

WINNER: Khali, at :31.

Kane came out after the match, but out of the crowd and from behind. His music hit, and Khali turned his attention to the ramp, which allowed Kane to strike. He knocked Khali over the top rope. Kane then went after Ranjin Singh, who tried to run away. Kane took him to the ground and cornered him. He grabbed Singh by the throat and took him over the barricade. He literally dragged him through the crowd to.....well, who knows where.

6- JEFF HARDY vs. C.M. PUNK- WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Jeff got in Matt’s face before the match. Speaking of, looks like Matt has some bad sunburn on his face or something. Atomic drop and a double legdrop by Hardy early in the match, a two count over a minute into the contest. Clothesline and over the top rope went Punk. Punk pulled Jeff off the apron by one leg. Both men were down outside the ring as they went to break just shy of 2:00 in.

It was Punk who was the aggressor out of break. Punk attacked the torso of Hardy with knees to the mid-section. Abdominal stretch followed that up. Hard whip into the buckle sent Hardy crumpling to the mat. Hardy came back with a Whisper in the Wind, but Jeff was too hurt to capitalize immediately. The men traded rights in the middle of the ring until Hardy one-uppped Punk with a mule kick, then a corner dropkick. Jeff went to the top, but Punk met him up there. Superplex off the top by the straight-edge star. Lateral press got a very near fall. Punk got Hardy up on his shoulders for the GTS, but it was no good. Eventually, Hardy sent Punk out of the ring near Matt Hardy, and Jeff hit a cross-body onto him. Jeff went up to Matt, and Punk went for a low dropkick, but it hit Matt instead of Jeff. Twist of Fate by Jeff back in the ring. Swanton, but Punk got his knees up. The ref began the count, but at two, Matt pulled him out of the ring. That didn’t make Punk happy, who argued with Matt about what he did. Then Jeff rolled up Punk and Matt counted to three.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy, at 11:08. Fine match, but you knew they weren’t going to pull out all the stops here. Interesting finish with Matt seemingly siding with Jeff.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 11 2009, 01:55 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34322.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GAIL KIM vs. BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX vs. KELLY KELLY -- #1 contender's match to Divas Title

Lilian Garcia announced the winner will receive a future Divas Title match. Future was left undefined. All four divas went after each other in rapid-fire fashion to start. Seemed like the end of the six-pack challenge from the Night of Champions PPV. They built up tension between Beth and Alicia early in the match, which came into play at the end after Beth tried a double powerslam off the top that would have been sick. Action spilled to the floor where Kelly landed a plancha on Alicia and Gail. Beth then teased a splash to the floor, but Alicia cut her off. Back in the ring, Alicia took her eye off the ball and Gail rolled her up for a pin to earn a future title shot.

WINNER: Gail Kim at 4:05. High-energy, fast-paced action. Well done. (*)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EVAN BOURNE

Swagger went right after Bourne after the bell sounded. Bourne took him to the floor, though, and landed a splash. Back in the ring, though, Bourne ate Swagger's knee back-first. Swagger then worked over Bourne's back with a nice knee-to-the-spine stretch on the mat. Bourne then tried a spinning head scissors, but Swagger blocked in mid-air. Crowd oohed as Swagger was ready to smash Bourne, but Bourne countered with a roll-up for a two count. Bourne with a double knee smash beneath the chin, but Swagger tossed him into the turnbuckles. Swagger had enough and dropped Bourne on his back with the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. Swagger then stared into the hard camera with an evil look before playing to the crowd.

WINNER: Swagger at 2:50. Didn't do much for Bourne. Swagger looked good as a bruising wrestler, though. It's nice to watch a show in front of a Canadian crowd because they seem to be more into the match action and hang on every move. You get the feeling with most WWE crowds in the U.S. that they're waiting for something to cheer about instead of getting involved. Like being at a baseball game surrounded by kids and families who don't cheer until the giant "GET LOUD...ER!!!" graphic flashes on the screen. (*1/2)

3 -- EUGENE vs. CALGARY KID

Calgary Kid tried to distract Eugene with a shiny nickel on the ground to climb the pole, but Eugene cut him off. Eugene then teased the People's Elbow and connected on CK. Eugene started to climb the pole, but CK punched him in the gut. They battled on the pole reaching for the contract, then Calgary Kid flung Eugene to the mat. Kid then grabbed the contract to win the match and a WWE contract.

After the match, Calgary Kid helped Eugene to his feet, then he gave Eugene a facebuster out of the Russian legsweep position. Kid then removed the mask to reveal...The Miz. Well, that was creative. Miz played to the crowd as the announcers said Miz found a way back onto the show after losing his Raw job last week. Miz then took the mic and said he's the Miz and he's awesome. Miz was sporting flatter hair since he was sporting the mask. Different look with the Lance Storm trunks and kick pads.

WINNER: Calgary Kid / Miz at 1:17. Good way to get Miz back on the show, but they really didn't even try milking it, rendering last week's entire show a complete waste now. Very anti-climatic return. Announcers sold it like, "All right, Miz is back on the show. Cut to a commercial." (n/a)

4 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. Unified tag champion BIG SHOW -- non-title match

The match started with Big Show slowly walking toward Orton to intimidate him. This was a follow-up from last night's house show in Colorado Springs where Orton worked babyface against Show, who worked heel in the house show main event. Crowd was behind Orton, who absorbed punishment early on before landing the horizontal DDT across the middle rope. Orton wanted the RKO, but Show flung him away. Show teased the chokeslam, then grabbed Orton and delivered a chokeslam. Orton was KO'ed, but Orton managed to get a foot on the bottom rope to escape a pin. Show then blasted Orton with stomps and kicks out of frustration. Show readied the Big Right Hand, but Orton ducked and slithered out of the ring. Orton stood on the outside as the ref applied a ten count. Ref reached eight and Orton teased re-entering, but he opted to walk away. Show with the count-out victory. Show wasn't too pleased with Orton bailing.

WINNER: Big Show via count-out at 6:05. There was more emphasis on making Show seem like a monster (to build up for the Shaq deal down the line) than making Orton seem like a credible wrestler on any level, nevertheless the champion. Orton's credibility is just gone. It's just not there at all. Raw before the Royal Rumble seems like forever ago. (*)

5 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. MVP

Masters showed off his strength early on by tossing MVP across the ring. MVP came back with a nice overhead throw off the ropes. He followed with the Big Ballin' elbow drop and wanted the Chono Boot, but Masters avoided. He tried the Masterlock, but only got one arm locked. Wait for it...he couldn't find the right combination, then MVP countered right into the Playmaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: MVP at 2:33. I might soon regret this next sentence... Swagger and Master could make a good tag team. Although I'd rather see Swagger receive a credible singles push, Swagger and Masters could be a good tag team where Swagger can be featured on Smackdown (to actually have time to wrestle) and build up his credibility as a legit star. Masters would benefit from working with Swagger, who can provide the personality while Masters provides the muscle. (*)

6 -- MARK SWOGGLE HENRY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. LEGACY (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES)

Cole and Lawler said DX might be returning at Summerslam to face Legacy. Trivia note: Cody Rhodes is actually the same height as Henry, if not with an inch advantage. Henry flung Cody out of the ring, then gave DiBiase a World's Strongest Slam in the corner. Horny then went up top and wanted the Tadpole splash, but DiBiase moved. Henry was stunned, then Cody kicked him off the apron. DiBiase stalked Horny, then grappled him from behind for the Dream Street in center ring for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cody & Ted at 2:38. Match was there. Cody and Ted look real tough beating Hornswoggle to set up their Summerslam match. *End sarcasm*

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO

Jericho and Cena exchanged control early on. Crowd wasn't buying the previous segment with Jericho obviously being scripted to cut an anti-Canada promo and continued to cheer Jericho. Lawler reasoned that the crowd still didn't want to cheer Cena because he's American. Actually, it's because they don't think highly of his wrestling ability.

Jericho controlled the match going into the over-run. He landed an elbow to the back before making a cover for a two count. Cena then went into "vintage Cena" mode of the flying shoulder tackle and Five Knuckle Shuffle combo. Cena smirked at the mixed crowd reaction. He started the "You Can't See Me" hand motion, but Jericho grabbed at him. Spot was blown, so Cena did the gesture again and Jericho tried a small package, but only got a two count. Cena then rolled through a cross-body block and wanted to power into the FU, but Jericho escaped and slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Jericho sat down on it to big cheers. Cena escaped, then countered into the STFU. Randy Orton then snuck into the ring and the bell sounded for the match to be thrown out. Crowd went from being red hot to dead silent as Cena and Orton just kind of stared at each other.

WINNER: No Decision at 6:46. Jericho is the best performer in this company right now. Morrison, Punk, and Hardy are close, but Jericho had the audience eating out of his hand for seven great minutes. Cena worked well too. Match finish was unclear, but that was expected when WWE booked this match. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 12 2009, 09:27 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 8-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34367.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Very aggressive start to the match. Ryder played the heel by cowering in the corner, then sneaking in an attack when Shelton argued with the ref. Shelton fired off a hard chop to the chest, then a fist to the face before back dropping Ryder to the mat. Shelton followed with a German suplex with a bridge for a two count. Ryder slipped to the floor to recover, then he tripped Shelton from the outside. He followed with a leaping leg lariat for a two count. Ryder wanted the Zack Attack, but Shelton blocked and monkey flipped Ryder into the corner. Ryder tried to counter the counter with a back kick strike, but Shelton caught him in mid-air and gave Ryder a powerbomb into the corner turnbuckles. He followed with the Pay Dirt finisher for the pin and the win. Crowd legit hot for Shelton here.

WINNER: Shelton in 3:00. Probably the fastest three minutes of ECW TV this year. Match needed more time so Ryder looked credible, but crowd was red-hot and helped legitimize Shelton as a babyface despite him never actually turning babyface. Weird dynamic, but very good match for three minutes. (*1/2)

2 -- KOZLOV vs. KEVIN BROOKS

Kevin ran around the ring, then took a hip toss and a hard clothesline. Kozlov threw Brooks into the corner. Small, but vocal group chanted, "You can't wrestle." I don't think he understood. Kozlov with a helicopter spin out of a backbreaker position, then he lifted up Brooks and gave him the Iron Curtain drop. Kozlov with the win.

WINNER: Kozlov in 1:00. It continues... (n/a)

3 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Burchill pounded on Yoshi early on, then started working on the mid-section. He landed two knees to the gut, but Yoshi quickly fired back with right hands. Yoshi with kick strikes, then a front roll into another kick strike. Yoshi ran off the ropes for a diving knee, then landed an elbow drop. Katie smacked Yoshi from the outside as he ran the ropes and the ref called for the bell. DQ finish came out of nowhere.

Post-match: Burchill, frustrated, started attacking Yoshi. Suddenly, The Hurricane's music hit. Burchill looked to the ring entrance, but there was no sign of him. Hurricane then appeared on the top rope and splashed Burchill before landing a Thesz Press. Hurricane with a flurry of right hands before giving Burchill the Stand Back pose. Burchill bailed, then Hurricane helped Yoshi to his feet. Yoshi shook hands and bowed, then posed with Hurricane center ring to end the segment.

WINNER: Yoshi via DQ in 2:00. Match was quick and short leading to Hurricane's nice in-ring return that the crowd really bought into. Well done. Seems to be leading to a Hurricane-Burchill feud since Burchill doesn't have a consistent program on ECW. (n/a)

4 -- TYLER REKS vs. TOM JAMES

TJ busted out a big forearm smash early on, but T-Reks fired back with a leaping lariat. Reks then nailed a big springboard missile dropkick for the easy pin and the win.

WINNER: Reks in 1:30. Finish looked sweet. Crowd wasn't into Reks as much as they were Yoshi, though. Yoshi just has a natural babyface vibe to him. Reks doesn't quite have that. A little character development could help. (n/a)

5 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Bell sounded and Striker referenced Dreamer taking a screw into the left arm from Christian's crutch shot last week. Match moved to the floor early on and Dreamer smashed Regal into the announce table. Dreamer then took his eye off the ball trying to suplex Regal from the apron to the floor and Regal sent Dreamer head-first into the ringpost. Dreamer fell to the apron, then Regal kicked Dreamer's left arm as it was next to the ringpost. Dreamer sold it like a gun shot, then Regal tried to capitalize with in-ring offense. Dreamer made a comeback at 3:00, but Regal cut him off with a knee to the face and went back to working on the bandaged and injured arm. Matthews said Dreamer was limping around all day and he questioned whether Dreamer should have wrestled, but he knows Dreamer is an ECW warrior. Dreamer showed grit with a flying right arm from the second rope before firing off body punches and a flurry of offense. Dreamer landed the D-Lo Brown sky high move, but Regal kicked out at two. Dreamer then hung Regal upside down in the corner and landed the E-C-W basement dropkick. Dreamer followed with a scoop slam, but Regal had a foot on the bottom rope to break up a pin. Regal snuck to the apron, then slingshot Dreamer's injured arm across the top rope. Regal immediately followed with a running knee to the head for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Regal wasn't done. He wanted to inflict more punishment, so he slapped on the old-school Regal Stretch in center ring. Dreamer sold tremendous pain, then Christian stormed the ring and chased Regal away. Regal bailed to the outside and begged off with a sly grin as Christian scolded him. Regal did a slight throat slash gesture, then Christian checked on Dreamer to close the show.

WINNER: Regal in 5:00. Regal and Dreamer had very good chemistry in the ring. Nice, crisp five-minute match where Dreamer still came out looking good wrestling a solid match one week after the brutal Extreme Rules match. Regal look very inspired with his position as #1 contender with a potential PPV match down the line (we assume). No announcement on whether Christian vs. Regal will take place at Summerslam, but they have the match ready if needed. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 14 2009, 10:36 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34414.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. D.H. SMITH (w/Natalya)

Ross talked about the young stars in WWE and said this is a future WrestleMania main event. Smith started in control by working over Morrison, who suddenly landed a double-leg take down on the big man. That was a surprise. Smith backed off in the corner to recover, then they had a mid-ring exchange of forearms leading to Morrison nailing a series of arm drags into a hammerlock. Morrison so crisp. Camera shots have been very tight in the ring for this match. Seems like they're bringing the viewer a little closer to the action. Morrison then knocked Smith to the outside and teased a dive, but Natalya stood in the way. Morrison standing tall on the top rope staring down at Smith going to break.

Back from break, they had a great counter exchange leading to Smith nailing a giant lariat for a two count. Smith then slapped on a reverse chinlock. Need Tyson Kidd ringside to scream "Ask him, ref!!!" Ross changed his "tougher than a $2 steak" saying to "tougher than a Waffle House steak" to describe Smith. Morrison escaped and went up top, but Smith blocked and nailed a big superplex. Great execution. Smith and Morrison had a forearm exchange with the crowd hot for Smith, then Morrison hit a nice overhead Pele kick into a standing moonsault for a two count. Smith then teased the British Bulldog running powerslam, but Morrison blocked. Morrison and Smith had a backslide test of strength before Smith caught J-Mo off the ropes with a powerslam. Smith then mounted Morrison for right hand blows and missed with a leg drop.

Morrison tried the Flying Chuck, but Smith ducked and rolled up Smith for a two count. Morrison followed with another Pele kick, then he put Smith in the corner. Fans booed Morrison as he wanted the Starship Pain, but Smith blocked. He tried an overhead German Suplex, but Morrison landed on his feet and hit the Flying Chuck springboard kick strike. Morrison then went for the Starship Pain a second time and this time connected with the corkscrew moonsault press for the pin and the win. Post-match: Morrison nodded in Smith's direction as Smith left the ringside area in defeat. Nice babyface move since the crowd was behind Smith and wanted to see him win.

WINNER: Morrison in 12:00. That was a great match. Morrison is just absolutely on top of his game right now. There's a reason why Morrison was the Best Wrestler in the month of July, as voted by Torch readers. Concerning Smith, this was best singles match I've seen from him in his WWE career. Smith has grown by leaps and bounds in just a few months. (***)

2 -- GOLDUST vs. SHEAMUS

After a brief exchange, Sheamus bailed to the outside and walked over the guardrail. That's a Civil War-level retreat to escape the babyface. Sheamus checked his jaw as Goldust told him to get in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Sheamus had Goldust in a neck vice on the mat working over Goldust. Sheamus then sent Goldust chest-first into the buckle and hit a Polish Hammer coming out of the corner. Tell you what, I saw Ivan Putski at Booker T's Fanfest during WrestleMania weekend and the man is still in unbelievable physical shape at 68 years old.

Back to the match, Sheamus became frustrated unable to put away Goldust. Sheamus went back to work with some nice offense while controlling the match. Very nice showing from Sheamus tonight. Crowd rallied behind Goldust, who came back with uppercuts and an atomic drop followed by a running boot to the head. He got greedy and wanted a splash, but Sheamus got his knees up to block. Crowd chanted for Goldust as Sheamus went back to work on Goldust, knocking the paint off his face. Goldust then flew the ropes and landed a big clothesline followed by a series of uppercut blows into a big clothesline. Goldust rallied up the crowd before hitting a trademark drop-down uppercut. Goldust then caught Sheamus off the ropes with a powerslam for a close two count. Goldust to the second rope where he hit a cross-body splash, but Sheamus rolled through into a very close two count. Hot match with a hot crowd. Sheamus and Goldust then brought the crowd down with a double boot on each other leading to a double knock down. Sheamus was first up and he went to pick up Goldust, but Goldust suddenly snuck in a small package on Sheamus for the pin and the win. Post-match, Sheamus shouted at the ref and sold disbelief that he was pinned. Goldust slipped to the outside and shot Sheamus an "I out-smarted you" look afterward.

WINNER: Goldust in 12:00. Another good singles match on this show. Goldust looks inspired, in good shape, and motivated to prove he deserves a prominent spot in WWE and not just doing jobs to younger wrestlers on the way up. I'd like to see another extended match-up between these two as Sheamus develops more and more as a credible heel. Well done. (**1/2)

3 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON & Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. CARLITO & ROSA MENDES

Kofi and Carlito locked up to start things off. Carlito became angry and started stomping away on Kofi in the corner. Carlito then settled into a reverse chinlock on the mat to wear down Kofi. They ran the ropes against each other resulting in Kofi nailing a leg whip. He then wanted the Boom Boom leg drop, but Carlito rolled to his corner and tagged in Rosa. Per the rules, Mickie became legal and worked over Rosa. The men re-entered at 5:00 and Kofi fired off on Carlito before running around the ring and landing the Boom Boom leg drop. Kofi with a pin for a two count. Kofi went up top, but Rosa interfered, allowing Carlito to crotch Kofi. Carlito wanted a superplex, but Kofi shoved him to the mat and came off the top with a sweet leaping cross body for a two count. Mickie then took Rosa out of the equation. Meanwhile, Kofi wanted his cat-like leap onto Carlito in the corner, but Carlito ducked and followed right up with an awesome backstabber as Kofi was hanging on the corner turnbuckle. Carlito with the cover for the win giving Carlito a credible victory over the U.S. champion. Post-match: Mickie helped Kofi recover as the victors celebrated on the outside. End show with Carlito and Rosa standing tall.

WINNERS: Carlito & Rosa in 6:00. Carlito looked good in this match. Good action to conclude the show. Perhaps they'll book Kofi vs. Carlito for the U.S. Title at Summerslam...or they might leave both men completely off the card. We'll find out on Raw this Monday. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 14 2009, 10:53 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 8-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/font_color_770000_KELLER_S_TAKE_font_11/article_34420.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) Christy Hemme pinned Sojo Bolt in 3:00. West said the Knockout division just got hotter with the return of Christy. At 2:00 Hemme backdropped Bolt and the launch was awkward and Bolt seemed at risk of landing badly on her head. She seemed okay, but the announcers sold the possibility of her being disoriented from the bump. Hemme finished Bolt with her top rope with the FFG legdrop off the top rope.

(2) Hernandez pinned Doug Williams (w/Brutus Magnus, Rob Terry) in Hernandez was on offense at the start, but a Magnus distraction at ringside helped Williams take control. Williams missed a top rope senton. Hernandez caught Williams diving off the top rope and turned it into a sitout powerbomb for the win. (*)

(3) Eric Young & Sheik Abdul Bashir beat Rhino & Jesse Neal when Young pinned Neal in 5:00. Rhino opened against Young. Then Neal tagged in and went to a rudimentary sequence of a noodle-forearm and a side headlock. When he had a chance at tagging Rhino, he instead charged at Bashir on the ring apron. Young then schoolboyed Neal from behind. Rhino gave him the "you're a dumbass" look.

(4) ODB (w/Cody Deaner) vs. Velvet Sky (w/Angelina Love, Madison Rayne) vs. Tara vs. Awesome Kong (w/Raiesha Saeed) in 10:00. At 1:00 Kong took a spill over the top rope when her targets avoided her as she charged. Tara and ODB shared some shots out of ODB's flask. Then they climbed to the top rope and dove, with ODB landing on Kong and Tara landing on the Beautiful People. They cut to a break. Is Jethro still beating up Abyss with a chair, by the way? At 9:00, after Kong dropped ODB center-ring, Cody distracted her on the ring apron. Cody surprised her with a kiss. Tenay freaked out. Kong then yanked Cody into the ring by his mullet and gave hi an Awesome Bomb. Tara surprised Kong from behind with a roll-up. (*1/2)

(5) Scott Steiner (w/Booker T, Sharmell) vs. Brother Ray (w/Devon). Ray fended off Steiner's early flurry and hit a Bubba Bomb for a two count at 2:00. He followed with a splash. As Sharmell distracted the ref, Booker interfered. Devon charged into the ring and knocked Booker to the floor. Ray bodyslammed Steiner and then split his legs for Devon's diving headbutt. Ray put on Steiner's Egyptian headdress. British Invasion ran out to ringside. Steiner and Booker attacked Devon and Ray from behind and then slammed Ray through a table leading to Steiner scoring a three count. The third finish in a row where a wrestler distracted by someone outside the ring led to the opponent jumping them from behind for an immediate pin. (*)

(6) Matt Morgan pinned A.J. Styles in 7:00 to earn a spot in the main event at Hard Justice. Styles dove onto Morgan at ringside before the match. They brawled at ringside. West said the ref is giving them extra latitude. When they entered the ring, the ref rang the bell to officially start it. Morgan made a comeback with a kneelift. Sting and Kurt Angle stood at ringside and watched the match. At 2:00 Morgan threw Styles to the floor. West said if Morgan wins this match, he's all but assured of getting a spot in the MEM. He said Angle told him so. Styles made a comeback and hit a springboard dropkick off the top rope for a near fall. Morgan fought back with a sideslam at 6:00 for a two count. Morgan climbed to the top rope, but Styles knocked him off balance and then set up a superplex. Morgan headbutted out of it. Styles, though, surprised Morgan with a Pele kick and scored a believable near fall at 7:00. Morgan came back with a vicious Carbon Footprint for the clean three count. Styles got a very nice TV match out of Morgan. The bump on the final kick was great. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 15 2009, 10:36 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34447.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- FINLAY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Grisham said Rey Mysterio was not in the building, as he was out on a promotional tour. Elbow right to the chin of Ziggler from Finlay. Hard European uppercut as well. Ziggler slammed Finlay’s coconut into the turnbuckle, and Finlay rolled out of the ring. He caught Ziggler in the ring skirt and pounded away with forearms. Ziggler headbutted Finlay in the gut as both men stood on the apron, then Ziggler kicked the seated Finlay right in the head. Mike Knox began to slowly walk to the ring as Ziggler put Finlay back in the ring. He continued the offense as the show went to break.

Ziggler still had Finlay on the mat out of break. JR once again went on and on about Ziggler’s background at Kent State. Ziggler took the fight to Finlay in the corner, but all of a sudden, Finlay speared Ziggler and landed some right hands. A neckbreaker by Ziggler ended that short burst from the Irishman. Finlay got a boot up as Ziggler came off the second rope. Forward Samoan roll by Finlay for two. Cannonball from Finlay found the mark. Finlay, from the apron, pulled Ziggler over the top rope and to the outside, right in front of Knox. Finlay clotheslined him off the apron. Knox made a run at Finlay, but Finlay nailed him from the apron and hit Ziggler, who was in the ring, as well. Then Knox landed a shillaleigh shot on Finlay as the ref was occupied with Ziggler, allowing Ziggler to hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 10:50. The Irishmen in WWE are 0-2 this week. Finlay showed a little more fire here than we’re used to.

Knox beat up on Finlay even more after the match, including sidewalk slamming him on the steel steps. Knox got the mic and told Finlay there are 206 bones in the human body. He said even the simplest trauma to the vertebrate can leave someone in excruciating pain. Uh....OK.

2- JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK

The two did some chain wrestling early on. Morrison tripped Punk up when the former champ went off the ropes. Springboard moonsault for two by Morrison. Flying Chuck kick early in the match got him another two. Punk tried to roll out of the ring and finally did, but not after Morrison tried to stop him. Morrison came out to the apron, where Punk kicked his legs out from under him. Then he kicked Morrison right in the throat or chest area. Morrison hung face-down over the apron and Punk came off the top with a knee to the back of his head. Nicely done, and a nice cliffhanger as they went to commercial.

Punk had Morrison in a headscissors, then they showed the replay of the move that sent the show into break. Morrison fired back with a crossbody off the second rope for two. He was put back down with a clothesline. Punk had Morrison on the mat with a rear chinlock. Morrison flipped out of a suplex and landed a Russian leg sweep. The two exchanged kicks, and Morrison got the better of it. Standing shooting-star press by Morrison (called a standing moonsault by the announcers) got two. He went to the top with a high crossbody for two. Punk retained control and proclaimed it “nap time!” He got Morrison up, but Punk rammed his head into the buckle instead. Running knee in the corner, then a bulldog out of it by Punk. A sloppy tilt-a-whirl DDT by Morrison, but it ended up looking OK. He got a near-fall out of it. Starship Pain attempt, but Morrison landed on his feet when Punk moved. Oklahoma roll got two, then Morrison struck Punk with the knee. He went for Pain again, but Punk got right up and pushed him onto the top rope, crotch-first. Punk kneed Morrison in the gut in the corner several times as Morrison hung in the tree of woe. Punk picked him up from that position for the GTS, and that did it. Punk elbowed Morrison in the face during the pin, in a nice touch.

WINNER: Punk, at 13:37. Another solid match between these two. They have real good chemistry in the ring and despite wrestling three times, it doesn’t feel stale at all.

3- MELINA vs. LAYLA

The match started right after the break. Layla slapped Melina, then tried to run, but Melina corralled her on the outside. Layla clotheslined her anyway. Layla turned an arm-drag into a cover of sorts in a rather unique move. Melina was hung on the top rope with her leg, and Layla reached down and pulled her hair the other way. Layla stretched Melina out even more, as she put Melina’s foot on her shoulder and really worked her over. Layla choked Melina on the bottom rope. The crowd chanted something I couldn’t make out. “Let’s go....” somebody. Melina came back with a pair of clothelslines. Kick to the gut by Melina, then a sunset flip, but Layla flipped out and got her with a low dropkick. Flapjack for two by Melina. Melina caught Layla in her finisher (the split-legged legdrop one) and picked up the win.

WINNER: Melina, at 3:35. A bit more competitive than I expected. Layla didn’t do too badly here, but I wouldn’t say it was a “good” match either.

4- JTG vs. THE BIG SHOW

Chris Jericho joined the commentary team, so I’ll at least be entertained during this Big Show match. Show worked the left arm of JTG, really trying to knot up the shoulder. Jericho explained that the last place team got a win over the first place team last week in JTG beating him. Jericho also said he had a sore throat last week. Show had JTG face-down on the mat while stretching the shoulder. The crowd was more interested in chanting at Jericho than paying attention to the match. Show whipped JTG into the corner, but he missed a splash. JTG ran right into Show’s hand and Big Show sent him over the top rope in front of the commentary table. Jericho got up as if he was going to get involved, but Shad shooed him away. Once Show got JTG and put him back in the ring, Jericho pushed Shad head-first into the ringpost. JTG started to come back with right hands, but Show threw him down again and locked him in his submission hold. JTG didn’t last long in it. “See you at Summerslam Cryme Tyme” Jericho said as the match ended and he left the broadcast table.

WINNER: Show, at 3:27.

Shad came back after the match and sent Show over the top rope as the big man was walking over it to exit the ring. He was really fired up.

5- JEFF HARDY vs. THE HART DYNASTY- HANDICAP MATCH

Hardy was bent down near the ropes, in obvious pain, as he waited for the Hart Dynasty to come to the ring. Hardy started off quickly, but his corner dropkick took too much out of him and Kidd tagged in Smith. Neckbreaker by D.H. for two. Double-team by the Hart Dynasty and they got a two-count. The duo worked over the neck of Hardy. Rear chinlock by Smith on Hardy. Hardy went to the top, perhaps for Whisper in the Wind, but Smith tripped him up and crotched him. Grisham said he was only going at half speed due to the injury, allowing Hart to catch him off guard. Rocket Launcher by Smith did not find the mark, as Hardy rolled away from Kidd’s splash. Kidd made the tag though, but Hardy fought back against Smith. Smith missed a charge and Jeff hit a face-first suplex. Hardy took off his shirt and wanted to go to the top, taking Kidd out while he was on the apron. That pause allowed Smith to bring him back in, where he gave the champ the big boot. They set up for the Hart Attack, but Kidd added a springboard with it, and Kidd pinned Hardy.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty, at 5:03. Sure, it was two-on-one, but it was a good win nevertheless for the youngsters.

C.M. Punk came out and beat up Jeff Hardy some more, until John Morrison came out and fought him off. The Harts got involved with Morrison, but Punk came back with a chair to the back of Morrison. Punk locked Hardy’s neck in with the chair once again, but Matt Hardy came out and attacked Punk before he could send Jeff into the ring post. Morrison fought off the Harts while Matt pounded away on Punk. Eventually, Matt cleared the ring and stood tall. Matt looked at Jeff, who was sitting down in the corner. Matt wanted to help him up, which gave Jeff pause. Matt lifted Jeff to his feet and the two had what appeared to be calm words, and they played Jeff’s music.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2009, 01:02 pm
TNA Hard Justice PPV Results: 8-16-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_34490.shtml)
 
1 -- X DIVISION STEEL ASYLUM MATCH -- #1 contender match
WINNER: Daniels in 15:00. For the most part, it was just a bunch of guys doing spots. There wasn't much psychology involved, just crash-and-burn action. Daniels tried to sell hunger and desire post-match, but the context of the match was guys more concerned about doing spots than winning a match. There were some mini-stories of Daniels and Dinero feuding, which changed into Dinero and Suicide feuding at the end. Dinero has a couple of feuds ready made. Crowd was hot for the opener, but they're always hot for the opening X Division spotfest. Didn't advance the X Division beyond the standard show-opening spot they've been slotted forever. (**)
 
2 -- ABYSS vs. JETHRO HOLLIDAY -- Bounty match
WINNER: Abyss in 10:00. Standard fare Abyss match. Crowd had good energy and Richards was absolutely awesome with his facial expressions and over-selling the sequences in the match. Abyss still doing the same thing he does every PPV, but Richards enhanced this month's offering. (*)
 
3 -- HERNANDEZ vs. ROB TERRY
WINNER: Hernandez in 0:05. Right finish. Terry would have had no business hanging with Hernandez if they want to turn Hernandez into a big star. (n/a)
 
4 -- IWGP tag team champions BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS) vs. BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) -- IWGP Tag Title match
WINNERS: British Invasion in 10:00 to retain the IWGP tag titles. Standard tag match. Eric Young was the highlight with the suit and sharp commentary. Not a memorable match in the ring other than Doug Williams flying and bumping around the ring to get the crowd hot for the babyface team before their scheduled loss. (*1/2)
 
5 -- Knockouts champion ANGELINA LOVE & ANGELINA LOVE (w/Madison Rayne) vs. ODB & CODY DEANER -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: ODB to capture the Knockouts Title.
 
6 -- X Division champion HOMICIDE vs. SAMOA JOE (w/Taz) -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Joe in 10:00 to capture the X Division Title. Vintage Samoa Joe tonight. Fine X Division match, but not a stand-out performance. Joe looks a step slower in the big baggy pants compared to his athletically-enhancing classic look. Title switch came across anti-climatic. (**)
 
7 -- TNA tag champs SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T (w/Sharmell) vs. TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) -- TNA Tag Title match
WINNERS: Mafia in 14:00 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Your standard, monthly brawl-through-the-crowd TNA PPV tag match to take as many shortcuts as possible to involve the crowd in the match leading to your standard TNA non-finish where Team 3D saves face if they're booked to lose. Looks like the program will continue on the next set of TV shows. (*1/2)
 
8 -- TNA Legends champion MICK FOLEY vs. KEVIN NASH -- Legends Title match
WINNER: Nash in 12:00 to capture the Legends Title. Brutal, brutal match. I'd like to see Nash justify this hardcore match after the Newsday interview. The match itself was very well done in terms of the story told. They effectively played up the fine line between reality and fiction to tell a good story with Foley selling a serious eye injury. It enhanced the story to deliver a match above expectations. (**1/2)
 
9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. STING vs. MATT MORGAN -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Angle in 12:00 to retain the TNA World Title. They sure did a nice job of teasing a storyline write-off based on the neck injury in the middle of the match to possibly get Angle off TV following the arrest, but it turned into another case of TNA rewarding bad behavior by having Angle win the match and stand tall at the conclusion of this company's pay event one day after being arrested. Morgan really shined in the match, while Sting appears to be on his last legs in the ring. Exciting finish based on all of the real and storyline elements in play, but TNA sent the wrong message tonight. Why should we expect anything different than par for the course from this company? (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 18 2009, 02:05 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34526.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. CARLITO (w/Rosa Mendes) -- U.S. Title match

Bell sounded and the wrestlers aggressively locked up to start things off. Kofi then started jumping around before Carlito caught him from behind with a sledgehammer to the back. Carlito dumped Kofi to the ring as they cut to break.

Carlito still in control coming back from break. Carlito had a side headlock, then Kofi slipped out and Carlito blasted him with an aggressive kick strike to the head for a two count. Nice touch from the announcers drawing a lot of attention to the move as Carlito became frustrated with his inability to put away Kofi. Kofi then made a comeback at 7:00 and hit the Boom Boom leg drop for a two count. He followed with a top rope cross body block for another close call. Carlito looked a bit winded as Kofi came off the top with another splash, but Carlito rolled through into a close nearfall. Kofi and Carlito then teased finishers, but Kofi blocked the backstabber and spun Carlito into the Buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kofi at 9:20 to retain the U.S. Title. Great Raw TV match. Where did that come from - Raw actually giving two mid-card wrestlers time to tell a complete story in the ring? Carlito didn't seem conditioned to go ten minutes - and why should he? - but the match was still a nice showcase that involved the crowd, especially the nearfalls at the end. (**1/2)

2 -- THE MIZ vs. EVAN BOURNE

Miz was in control early on pounding Bourne into the corner and landing knee smashes. Miz then hit the running clothesline in the corner before hopping up top. Miz wanted a double axehandle, but Bourne met him in mid-air with a roundhouse kick. Bourne then came over the top with a double knee smash to knock Miz down. Miz slipped back into the ring and Bourne blasted him with an enziguiri kick. Bourne followed with a sweet running head scissors into a standing moonsault for a two count. Miz then tried to roll up Bourne with a surprise pin, but Bourne escaped and kneed Miz in the jaw. Bourne then went up top for the SSP, but Miz crotched him. Bourne then tried to hop on Miz's shoulders, but Miz dropped him to the mat and hit Jeff Jarrett's Stroke, which Lawler said he calls the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz with the pin for the win over the hometown Bourne. Miz's "remarkable comeback" continues.

WINNER: The Miz at 4:11. Solid four-minute match, although I'm not sure what they're doing with Bourne now that he's lost three straight matches on TV. Miz looked good playing the heel with his new look. (*1/2)

3 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. GAIL KIM -- Divas Title match

After a brief exchange, they suddenly were locked together on the mat and rolled around the ring like bowling balls. Gail went for a trademark top rope move, but Mickie moved. Mickie then hit an ugly DDT and followed with the Chick Kick that airballed Kim. Mickie then hit a forearm shot and scored the pin for the win. Afterward, Mickie took a deep breath as if to say she felt bad picking up the win. She then shook Gail's hand. They raised each other's arms in the hair to close the segment.

WINNER: Mickie James at 3:40 to retain the Divas Title. Started out promising as if they had something to prove tonight, but the match ended poorly. This was their default Summerslam PPV match and it appeared they tried a little too hard. (*)

4 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP

Match quickly moved to the floor where MVP ate the announce table. Back in the ring, Swagger rushed through a beat down on MVP. Ref had enough of Swagger blasting MVP in the corner with strikes and called for the bell, DQ'ing Swagger. Post-match: MVP tried to attack Swagger, but Swagger ran away. Feud continues.

WINNER: MVP via DQ at 0:45. What in the world was that? (n/a)

5 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. HORNSWOGGLE -- Falls Count Anywhere

Bell sounded and Hornswoggle went under the ring. They went to a wide shot of the crowd as the wrestlers disappeared. Suddenly, Chavo emerged on the other side of the ring along with a toilet seat. Horny then ran away to the back and Chavo chased him down. Chavo approached Primo, who told him where Horny went. Chavo didn't believe him. Chavo then went on a search looking for Horny. No sign of him anywhere. He walked down a hallway with a St. Louis Blues hockey logo. "Let's Go Blues" chant. Chavo then walked into a paint can hanging from the ceiling and collapsed to the ground. Horny popped out and pinned Chavo on the ground for the win. Post-match: Chavo recovered and Mark Henry was there smiling in his red HD-ready suit. Chavo asked if he did that. Henry said no. Macaulay Culkin suddenly walked into the shot and said "what's up?" Ah, the old Home Alone scenes where the villains took paint can shots to the forehead, staple gun shots to the crotch, and all that.

WINNER: Hornswoggle at 2:20. And the roadrunner outsmarts the coyote again. This will never end. (n/a)

6 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. WWE champion RANDY ORTON & JOHN CENA -- non-title match

Match was joined in progress. Other lumberjacks were Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston. Cena was being worked over Show, then Cena wanted a tag to Orton, but Orton backed away and let Cena stay in the ring to continue taking punishment from Show. Cena then hit a drop toe hold sending Show into the corner. Orton had his back to the action, so Cena ran over to their corner and slapped Orton on the back to bring him into the ring. Orton wasn't happy, then Show speared him mid-ring. Orton rolled to the outside, then the babyface jacks taunted Orton. Henry could have done some damage, but he opted to press slam Orton back into the ring. Well, he did follow the rules.

Show dropped Orton with the sweeping leg drop, then Jericho tagged in and went to work on Orton. Cena just watched casually as Jericho went to work on Orton. Lawler referenced Show & Jericho vs. Cryme Tyme on Sunday at the PPV. Yeah, good to plug one of the top matches on the card two hours and two minutes into the show. Orton teased a hot tag as Cena pretended like he was begging for that hot tag. Show cut off Orton, though, and landed a running leg drop for a two count. Jericho then lost control and Orton hit a powerslam. Orton then teased a hot tag, Cena teased interest in taking the tag, but Jericho cut off the tag. For the third time, Orton crawled across the desert to Cena, who took the tag legit without pulling away or any funny business. Cena then did his routine on Jericho, knocked Show off the apron, and hit the FU on Jericho right in middle ring. Cena with the pin and the win.

Post-match: Orton snuck up behind a celebrating John Cena and dropped him center ring with the RKO. Henry then ran into the ring, but Orton bailed and left the ring with the final word on Cena. Jericho and Show then went after Cena while babyface lumberjacks were cleared out of the ring. Have to get in one last blow at the mid-card before the PPV. Cena then flung Jericho away and gave Show a shoulder tackle to clear him out of the ring. Cena back to standing tall center ring as Orton did a big eyes and big gulp look from the stage. Cena shook his head as Orton held up the WWE Title belt. Cena seemingly with the advantage and on fire going into Summerslam. Will he win the belt?

WINNERS: Cena & Orton at 8:30. Match was fine, although Jericho in a background role was a travesty of justice. The intrigue of Cena and Orton teaming together before Summerslam was played up fine, but there just hasn't been that "Summerslam vibe" to this feud at all. About a 5.5/10 in terms of building up the PPV title match considering how much they handcuffed themselves with the Raw Guest Host overshadowing their title match for the past four weeks. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 18 2009, 02:14 pm
ROH TV Results: 8-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRosenroll's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34531.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - EDDIE EDWARDS (w/Shane Hagadorn) vs. KEVIN STEEN

The two began brawling as soon as Steen hit the ring. Hogwood called it a continuation of what happened last week. Edwards took the advantage when Hagadorn distracted Steen. Edwards punished Steen on the outside and tried for a count-out win, but Steen just beat the twenty-count back into the ring. Steen made a comeback at 6:00. After some back-and-forth high spots, Hagadorn slid a chair into the ring and got on the apron to distract the referee. Steen beat Edwards to the chair and hit Edwards with an unprotected chair shot to the head while the referee was still distracted, then hit a Swanton bomb from the top rope for the pin. Prazak put over the devastation of the chair shot while Edwards sold it in the ring after the match.

WINNER: Steen in 10:00. Solid match, but the unprotected chair shot at the end was unnecessary and spoiled it for me. There was no good reason for Edwards to risk a concussion like that in an opening TV match. It would have been just as effective, and safer, if Edwards had put up his hands to protect himself or if Steen had delivered the chair shot to Edwards's back instead.

2- CHEECH & CLOUDY vs. TONY KOZINA & SAL RINAURO

Kozina and Rinauro did a couple of comedy spots, then Cheech and Cloudy got in a couple of double team spots. At 2:30, the Dark City Fight Club hit the ring and knocked Cheech and Cloudy out of the ring. Rinauro ran off but Kozina stayed to fight. The Dark City Fight Club gave him their finisher and Prazak said he was looking forward to their return in a sanctioned match.

WINNER: No contest in 2:30 due to interference by the Dark City Fight Club.

3- SAMI CALLIHAN vs. THE NECRO BUTCHER

Necro came out with his ankle wrapped in electrical tape. Prazak noted that this was due to Jimmy Rave recently catching Necro with the heel hook submission. Necro took an early advantage but Callihan turned the tables at 3:00 by going after Necro's bad ankle. At five minutes, Necro made a comeback and went to the corner to get his staple gun. Prazak noted that stapling your opponent is illegal in wrestling. Hogwood pointed out that the fans really wanted to see it, to which Prazak replied "So what?" The referee stopped Necro from using the staple gun, but Necro finished off Callihan with a tiger driver for the win.

WINNER: Necro Butcher in 6:00. Good enhancement match for Necro. Callihan sold well, and the ankle injury created a sense that Necro was in some jeopardy while reinforcing Necro's issue with Jimmy Rave and the Embassy.

4 - TYLER BLACK vs. NIGEL MCGUINNESS
 
The announcers pointed out that this match has huge implications for future title shots. After an early feeling out process, the pace picked up at 3:00 but McGuinness bailed out of the ring to slow things back down. Black chased McGuinness down outside the ring and took the advantage. He rolled McGuinness into the ring and started working on his leg. At 6:00, McGuinness turned the tables with a hammerlock divorce court and then started working over Black's arm. Prazak noted that working over the arm was setting the stage for McGuinness's London dungeon arm submission. McGuinness's mat wrestling while working over Black's arm was strong and innovative, and Black's selling was great. The crowd really got behind Black, urging him to make a comeback.

At 10:00, McGuinness set up Black for the Tower of London, but Black avoided it and dropkicked McGuinness out of the ring. Black followed this up with a 360 flip over the top rope to strike McGuinness on the floor, then a nice moonsault off the ringside barrier onto the prone McGuinness. Annoyingly, Hogwood called the moonsault a backflip. Back in the ring, McGuinness regained the advantage at 14:00 when Black missed another moonsault. McGuinness went back to working over Black's arm and locked in the London dungeon at 15:00, but Black got his foot to the ropes to force a break. McGuinness then hit the Tower of London on Black and tried for another London dungeon, but Black avoided it with a kick to McGuinness' head. Black then countered a jawbreaker lariat attempt by McGuinness into a small package driver for the win. The announcers pointed out that Black had now beaten both Bryan Danielson and Nigel McGuinness, making him the leading contender for Austin Aries's World Championship.

WINNER: Tyler Black at 17:00. Excellent TV main event. McGuinness is a great heel and his matholds look like they hurt a lot. Black did a great job building up sympathy in the middle of the match, then showed his usual great athleticism during his big comeback. The finishing sequence, while good, was not as drawn out and dramatic as a typical ROH DVD main event, so overall this was not quite to the level of a DVD main event but still very good for free TV.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 20 2009, 02:32 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 8-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34564.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- HURRICANE HELMS vs. PAUL BURCHILL

Striker referred to this as “issue number one” for the Hurricane. Crowd was into the super hero early on- Burchill was all over him in the corner. Hard Irish whip sent Helms to the buckle as Burchill taunted the fans. Helms grabbed him by the throat, but nothing came of that; he was able to recover and hit a Thesz Press though. Hurricane low-bridged an overzealous Burchill, sending the Englishman to the outside. Off the top rope with a cross-body onto Burchill. They took a break at this point.

Surprise, Burchill had Helms in a headlock upon return. They showed how Burchill gained control during the break, by knocking Helms off the top rope. Short clothesline from Burchill, one that garnered him a one-count. Burchill again worked the surgically-repaired neck of Hurricane. He came at Helms with a double-knee in the corner. Helms was set on the top by Burchill, but he struggled to suplex the masked crusader. Helms headbutted Burchill down, then landed a cross-body, but it took enough out of him that he couldn’t make the cover. Right hands by Helms, along with a flying clothesline took him down. Back-breaker of sorts for two. Burchill took over on offense and this time, he went to the top where Hurricane stopped him. Helms with a hurricanrana (hurricane-rana?) off the top that felt like it was in slow motion. Only two for that though. Eye of the Hurricane was successful, and led to the pin.

WINNER: Hurricane, at 11:00. I’m surprised they went so long in Hurricane’s return. It was a good match, but after a hurricanrana, it seemed kind of silly to end things with a finisher so simple as the Eye of the Hurricane.

2- ZACK RYDER vs. YOSHI TATSU

Tatsu took Ryder down and worked the arm. To the top, Zack was stopped up there by Tatsu (the third time in two matches tonight), but Ryder brought him down with his arm across the ropes. It was clear he was going to spend the match trying to weaken that left extremity. Yoshi spun out of a back-breaker attempt and locked in an arm-bar. Ryder got to his feet and threw Tatsu out of the ring. He came back though and got a running knee to the chest in the corner. Rolling snap-mare, then a kick to the chest for two. Zack Attack attempt, but Tatsu countered and took Ryder’s leg out from under him. Rolling senton, shades of Dick Togo according to Striker. He tried to jump over the top and into the ring with an elbow, but Ryder got the knees up on the move, and got the win off of that.

WINNER: Ryder, at 3:01. Fine match to enhance Ryder a bit more. I think Tatsu’s big push is over.

3- WILLIAM REGAL & VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. CHRISTIAN & EZEKIEL JACKSON

Christian and Regal locked up to start things, about one minute shy of the top of the hour. “Regal sucks” chant from the fans. Wrist-lock by Regal sent the ECW Champion down to one knee. But Christian got out of it and hit a flying European uppercut off the second rope. Kozlov tagged in and Christian tagged him with some right hands. Kozlov just picked Christian up and put him in a back-breaker submission on his shoulder. Kozlov charged, but Christian pulled the top rope down and Kozlov fell to ringside. A distraction by Regal allowed Kozlov to come back and nail Christian in the back. “The Balkan Butcher” Striker called him, obviously a fan of alliteration. Regal worked over Christian on the outside of the ring as the legal man. The heels cornered Christian and tried to prevent him from getting close to making the tag. Rear chin-lock from Kozlov and more punishment in the corner. Christian attempted a backslide on Regal and succeeded, but didn’t get anywhere with it. Springboard sunset flip, but the pin was broken up by Kozlov, who was chased out of the ring by Jackson. As Jackson went back to his corner, he turned Christian around and gave him a uranage. Regal made the pin.

WINNERS: Regal & Kozlov, at 5:10. Ah, I wanted to see the big Kozlov vs. Jackson match-up.

After the match, Kozlov gave his finisher to Christian and Regal begged Zeke to do his again. So he did. Well, Jackson and Kozlov as a tag team makes more sense than having them feud. All three stood in the middle of the ring with their hands raised as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 21 2009, 12:33 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34619.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX

Kelly surprisingly knocked Beth to the outside early in the match. She then rolled Beth back into the ring, but Beth smashed her on the way back in. Beth then went to work on Kelly before Kelly came back with a trademark spinning head scissors. Kelly smashed Beth in the corner with two feet, then went up top and connected with a high cross-body block for a two count. Kelly wanted a running handstand elbow, but Beth ducked and put her in the electric chair. Kelly rolled through, though, and scored a close two count. Beth then smashed her with a clothesline. After that, it was all over with the double underhook facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 5:00. Nice Divas match. Two close nearfalls at the end for Kelly gave her a good showing prior to taking the loss. Beth gave Kelly a lot of offense, but WWE hasn't built up Beth as a serious act despite her size as a Divas giant in some time. After all, she spent seemingly eight years doing comedy with Santino. (*1/2)

2 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. TYLER REKS

Aggressive Shelton was in the ring tonight, as he blasted Reks into the corner turnbuckles with multiple hard whips. Shelton then put Reks on the mat and put a knee in his back as he stretched him out. Josh Mathews and Matt Striker talked quietly about the Summerslam activities in Los Angeles this weekend, as if they didn't want to disturb the quiet crowd. Reks then came to life with a powerslam for a two count. He went up top and nailed a cross-body block, but Shelton rolled through into a two count. Shelton followed up with a spin kick they carefully edited with a quick camera cut, then he dropped Reks with the Pay Dirt in center ring for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton in 4:00. I'm guessing next week on ECW, Shelton is feuding against Sheamus as a babyface. Match was okay. We need to know more about Reks. I dare say put him on Washington's show. I might regret that, but we need some information on who Reks is. (3/4*)

3 -- R-TRUTH vs. CHARLIE HAAS

Haas now sporting full-length black ring tights instead of the biker short trunks or singlet he typically wears. Haas blasted Truth with a clothesline, then sat down on his back with a modified Crossface. Truth slipped out, then dropped Haas to the mat with a hip toss for a two count. Haas missed with an elbow drop, then Truth nailed the Lie Detector - his spinning right hand blow - for the pin and the win. Finish seemed to come out of nowhere. That's easily explainable: his finisher doesn't look like a finisher. Looks like a transition move. Truth celebrated with the crowd for a few moments to conclude the segment.

WINNER: R-Truth in 3:00. Basic mid-card match from the Smackdown brand. Haas's character is without direction right now. He'll probably hang around for a while, get traded to another brand, re-start a push, then drift back to the mid-card. It's an unfortunate pattern when Haas could offer something tangible if given the right program or storyline to work with. (3/4*)

4 -- MARK HENRY vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Early on, Henry blocked a suplex that Masters tried to execute on the big man and countered with a suplex of his own. Henry then tossed Masters half-way across the ring before running into a big boot in the corner. Masters tried the Masterlock, but he sold that he couldn't get his arms anywhere close to around Henry's neck to apply the hold. Henry escaped, hit a clothesline, but missed with the Big Splash. Masters then stomped on Henry and went to work on Hornswoggle's big buddy. Masters applied a reverse chinlock as Henry was down on one knee. Crowd rallied behind Henry, who blocked the Masterlock and rammed Masters into the corner turnbuckle.

Henry threw up a big roadblock with his chest bump, but Masters came back with a third Masterlock attempt. No dice, then Masters ran into the World's Strongest Slam. Henry delivered it too close to the ropes, though, and Masters grabbed the bottom rope to block the pin. Masters then rolled to the outside and crawled on his knees across the guardrail. Masters wanted nothing to do with Henry, so he walked away and lived to fight another day. Henry wins by count-out. He's happy. What was Jim Ross's line? Pay is the same. They replayed the finish, then showed Henry talking to the fans ringside. Henry smiled and raised his arms in victory to close the show.

WINNER: Henry via count-out in 8:00. Fine big man match-up. Both men spent a little too much time on the mat instead of having a more stand-up match where they both looked tough. As soon as Henry hits the mat in a match, he looks weak. Then again, he's usually sporting a mini green Derby on his head. Henry stands tall, Masters plays the Jack Swagger card, and it's a wash. Just a chance to showcase both men in a main event situation. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 21 2009, 01:30 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 8-20-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1007462.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Beer Money defeated The British Invasion in a non-title street fight in 5:30. Before the match, other members of World Elite tried to accompany the Invasion to ringside, but referee Earl Hebner wouldn't allow it. Tenay said the referees had been empowered via a new edict passed down by TNA management.

Beer Money went right at the Invasion by attacking them with trash cans and straps. They fought to ringside, where James Storm and Robert Roode teamed up to hit a double suplex on Brutus Magnus. The heels came back and tied Storm to the ring post, but a second referee came out and cut him loose.

Storm brought a board in the ring and slammed it over the head of Doug Williams. He beat Brutus with the board and a trash can and fired up the crowd in a big way. Williams bled heavily from the head. Storm and Roode hit the DWI on Magnus on top of a trash can and pinned him for the win.

2. Angelina Love defeated Madison Rayne in 0:50. Love attacked Rayne at ringide and then dominated the brief match. Afterward, Velvet Sky came out and joined Love in putting the boots to Rayne. They gave her the brown paper bag treatment. Tara's music played and she came out with Christy Hemme to run off the Love and Sky...

3. Samoa Joe pinned Homicide in 4:00. They joined the match in progress. Taz said he brought Joe to the promised land by leading him to the X Division Title. He said that despite his relationship with Joe, he likes Homicide, in part because they're both from Brooklyn. Taz said he completed his task by leading Joe to the title win.

The in-ring action was intense. Joe hit a nasty looking German suplex and followed up with a powerbomb for a good near fall. He went for it again, but Homicide hit him with punches to the head and went on the offensive. Joe came back and hit the Muscle Buster for the clean win... 

4. Traci Brooks (w/Sharmell) defeated Christy Hemme (w/Tara), Awesome Kong (w/Raisha Saeed), and Sarita (w/Taylor) in a four-way in 7:05. There was some clunky action with Hemme and Traci, but then the women took turns hitting big moves at ringside before the break.

After the break, Kong had Hemme set up for a top rope splash, but Traci snuck in and scored the pin. Kong flipped out afterward by throwing chairs at ringside. Tenay announced that Kong would get her shot at revenge next week when she teamed with Saeed to face Traci and Sharmell in the first round of the Knockouts tag tournament...

5. DeAngelo Dinero pinned Consequences Creed in 3:25. Jay Lethal came out with Creed, but referee Andrew Thomas sent him and his tired gimmick to the back. Dinero hit a great uppercut punch early. Later, he lowered his knee pads and hit the move formerly known as the Elijah Express for the win. The fans popped big.

After the match, Suicide's music played and he appeared on the stage. Dinero's eyes got big as he watched Dinero's entrance. Suicide came out and got the better of a brief exchange between the two. Tenay explained that Suicide was getting revenge for something Dinero did at the pay-per-view...

6. Team 3D defeated Kurt Angle and Matt Morgan in a tables match in 12:55. Taz slipped and called Brother Ray by the "Bubba" name early. "I call him Bubba," Taz said. "Whatever." Here comes the legal letter. Team 3D was in control of the match when they cut to commercial a few minutes in.

After the break, Team 3D was still in control. Ray led the crowd in chanting for Devon to get the tables. Morgan cut them off and knocked down Ray and Devon. He set up a table in the middle of the ring. He grabbed Devon by the throat and went for a chokeslam, but Ray moved the table.

Later, Team 3D attempted to double suplex Morgan through a table. Kurt moved it, but not before Morgan's legs hit the table. The referee quickly ruled that Morgan's legs didn't go through the table. Later, Morgan and Angle placed Devon on a table. Angle instructed Morgan to go up top for a move. Team 3D came back and threw Morgan off the top rope and through the table for the win. Morgan was pissed at Angle afterward...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 22 2009, 12:39 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34646.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- REY MYSTERIO & CRYME TYME vs. BIG SHOW & CHRIS JERICHO & DOLPH ZIGGLER

This must be the night of six-man tags. That re-mix of Show and Jericho’s theme is just awful. Jericho and Rey kicked off the match. Jericho picked Rey up and slammed him right on his stomach. He controlled much of the early action until Rey landed a knee-lift and tagged in JTG, who owns a pinfall victory over Jericho. Ziggler tagged in and kicked away at JTG in a neutral corner. JTG recovered and slammed Ziggler face-first into the mat from the second rope. The faces had control as they went to break three minutes into the match.

It was still Ziggler and JTG as the show returned from break. And Ziggler was still dominating. After Jericho tagged in, JTG made his comeback with a cross-body and Cryme Tyme both got their fair share of offense in. Show tagged in for the first time 8:00 into the match, and he went to work on JTG. Jericho even worked in a cheap shot while referee Chad Patton was distracted. As the fans taunted Jericho, JTG began to fight back against him. Jericho barely kicked out of a cover, but an enziguiri made sure JTG wouldn’t make the tag. Shad tagged in 11:00 into the match, and went so far as to knock Big Show off the apron. It looks like Shad and Jericho both went for cross-bodies, but only Jericho sold it. Rey climbed on Shad’s shoulders and splashed Jericho. Ziggler broke up the pin and Shad threw him out of the ring. Show clotheslined Shad out, propelling himself over in the process. Rey bulldogged Jericho for two. Rey hurricanrana’d Jericho into the ropes and he hit the 619. But Show used the power of the punch to knock Rey out from outside the ring. Y2J tagged Ziggler, who made the pin.

WINNERS: Ziggler, Show & Jericho, at 12:59. Fine preview for Summerslam that was able to plug two matches in one.

2- MIKE KNOX vs. FINLAY

Knox did an inset interview, wearing glasses, talking about what fear is doing to Finlay. Knox got the best of Finlay in the corner until the Irishman fought out. They went to the outside, where both men worked each other over. JR called Knox an intelligent, complex individual. Knox worked the back of Finlay, the lower lumbar region as Gorilla Monsoon would say. Knox stretched out Finlay’s back with a few different moves. Forearms to the back for good measure. Finlay made a comeback, which included a sit-down splash on Knox’s gut for a near-fall. He put Knox up on his back, but the back gave out. He tried it again, and did a forward roll for two. Finlay missed a shoulder charge in the corner, and Knox rolled him up for two. Knox mounted Finlay and pounded away, ignoring the count of the referee and drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Finlay, via DQ, at 5:26. A good mid-card feud extended here. I like Knox, but I hope they get behind his character a bit more. The inset interview tonight actually helped.

After the match, Knox continued the attack and took apart the stairs on the outside. Finlay got a shillaleigh shot in, but Knox landed a bicycle kick, then drove the stairs into the skull of Finlay. Knox smiled as he walked away.

3- MARIA & MELINA vs. NATALYA & LAYLA

Arm-drag into a pin by Layla for two. Maria with a weak clothesline, then a dropkick for a two of her own. Melina came in and chased Layla out of the ring. Melina went after McCool at ringside, tackling her (nearly into JR’s lap), but that allowed Layla to take over and slam Melina’s head off the announce table. Natalya tagged in and put Melina in a surfboard. Natalya still had her legs hooked, and she pulled back on Melina’s neck and hair. Out of nowhere, Melina got a roll-up on Natalya and got the win.

WINNERS: Maria and Melina, at 2:42. I can’t wait ‘til a face gets the title so Natalya can feud with them over the belt. I’m hoping they aren’t completely ignoring her in-ring skills that are so far ahead of every other woman.

4- C.M. PUNK & THE HART DYNASTY vs. JOHN MORRISON & THE HARDY BOYZ

Morrison and Tyson Kidd did battle to start. Matt tagged in and Kidd got the better of him, enough so to take in D.H. Smith. Punk came in and soon after, Matt made the tag to Jeff. Jeff leapt off Matt’s back and hit Poetry in Motion. The three faces cleared the ring as they went to break about 2:40 into the match.

The Hardys double-teamed Kidd out of break, with Matt gaining only a two-count. Morrison with a side headlock take-over on his rival. Another quick tag for the faces, with Jeff coming in hitting his split-legged double leg-drop. Matt missed an elbowdrop, allowing Kidd to tag Smith. Morrison came in and got a cover on Smith for two after a standing shooting star press (called correctly this week by JR). Punk broke up the pin and Smith took over on offense. Morrison went for a Flying Chuck kick, but Punk pushed him over the top rope and to the floor. Out there, David Hart Smith nailed Morrison with a running kick to the chest. JR wondered if Morrison would be able to fight back into the match as they went to another break, about 10:00 in.

Kidd had Morrison grounded in a side headlock as the show returned from its final break. Smith cut off a tag attempt by Morrison. Morrison came back and landed the Flying Chuck kick, but he was too injured to capitalize. Smith tagged in Kidd, and while he stopped Morrison at first from making a tag of his own, a few seconds later, Morrison was able to get the upper hand and tag out. Jeff Hardy cleaned house on all three members of the opposing team. Swanton attempt by Jeff, but Smith pulled Kidd out of harm’s way. Punk tagged in and you could tell he could smell blood. A series of legdrops led to a two-count. Whisper in the Wind connected on his Summerslam opponent, but again, both men were down. Jeff tagged Matt in and he took it to Punk with clotheslines and a bulldog out of the corner. Side Effect for one, as Smith broke it up. Things broke loose as Morrison back-dropped Kidd onto Smith on the outside, then dove onto both of them. After a hangman by Jeff on C.M., Twist of Fate on Punk by Matt for the win.

WINNERS: Hardys and Morrison, at 19:12. Good main event, and an interesting result. Guess they wanted to put Matt over big in his return. That’s a good sign for his future.

The faces celebrated in the ring as Punk was on the outside, trying to comprehend what happened as the show faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2009, 01:25 pm
WWE SummerSlam PPV Results: 9-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_34677.shtml)
 
1 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- Intercontinental Title match
WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 12:30 to retain the IC Title. Awesome opener. Dolph made himself a star in the process of continuing his quest for the IC Title. Crowd buying into Dolph at the end was a nice moment. Dolph had plenty of offense and clear nearfalls throughout the match to where he didn't lose much by taking the loss. (***1/4)
 
2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP
WINNER: MVP at 6:21. Okay match. Tough spot on the card for a Raw brand match without any juice behind it after their random 60-second match on Monday. I don't want to write off Swagger based on him taking this clean loss, as Punk lost clean to Kane on the Backlash PPV, and is main-eventing Summerslam three months later, but it shows WWE is prioritizing MVP over Swagger right now. (*)
 
3 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. CRYME TYME (JTG & SHAD GASPAR) -- Unified Tag Title match
WINNERS: Jericho & Show at 9:48. Took a while for the match to pick up, but a very nice finish. JTG had a memorable moment escaping the Walls of Jericho before taking the Big Punch. Good showcase for Cryme Tyme despite taking the loss. (*3/4)
 
4 -- KANE vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh)
WINNER: Kane at 5:58. At least it's over now. Bad match with a decent finish. Lowered the bar so low early that the finish was intriguing and generated a somewhat genuine response from the crowd. (1/2*)
 
5 -- DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. LEGACY (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES)
WINNERS: DX at 20:10. Excellent tag match. Easily WWE's best tag team match of the year. Announcers spent ten minutes talking up Legacy's effort to make sure they came out looking strong before taking the loss. DiBiase and Cody blocking and countering DX's signature moves and sequences was very well done to show Legacy was smart enough to block the exact same moves DX always does in their matches. Legacy was elevated, but we all knew DX was winning barring a fantasy heel turn by Michaels. (****)
 
6 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL
WINNER: Christian at 0:07. Gosh, another ridiculous ECW Title match on WWE PPV. (n/a)
 
 
7 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Randy Orton at 17:40 to retain the WWE Title. If that was a legit fan who hit the ring, it gives new meaning to "If Cena Wins, We Riot" since Cena was about to score a tap out win. Crowd was into the match, but WWE over-booked the crap out of this match. Fan interference - legit or not - was the icing on the cake. For the record - first stop at 13:31, second stop at 15:34, third stop at 15:50, and finish at 17:40. Looks like an Orton vs. Cena re-match at Breaking Point where only way to win is by submission. (**1/2)
 
8 -- World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. C.M. PUNK -- World Hvt. Title match -- TLC match
WINNER: Punk at 21:34 to capture the World Hvt. Title. Awesome main event title match, albeit with the usual high-risks and chair shots to the head that make you cringe and take a step back from enjoying the action. Drama was great, Punk was great, Hardy was great. Everything was there for a very good main event to conclude the in-ring action and send Hardy off with a match to be proud of if this was indeed his last WWE match before hiatus. (****1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2009, 10:28 am
WWE RAW Results: 8-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34726.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only, Thank God! Between DX/McMahon and Mayweather/Big Show, that ate up 45 minutes of the program.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. THE MIZ

Announcers talked extensively about Miz changing his look, getting more serious after the John Cena program, and going after the U.S. Title belt. Santino did his Santino Comeback and landed the big Khali chop. He then wanted a "Salute" elbow drop, but Miz avoided. He followed with The Stroke for the pin and the win. Post-match: Miz took the mic and said that was him taking one step closer to becoming new U.S. champion. He said that's true because he's The Miz and he's awesome. Cole let us know Kofi is in action later tonight.

WINNER: Miz at 2:05. Basic TV match where Santino had more offense than Miz, who didn't benefit much from this spot. At least he had some post-match promo time to get across his point. (1/2*)

2 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM vs. BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES & ALICIA FOX

Heels isolated Kelly Kelly in their corner early on, leading to a hot tag to Mickie. Chaos ensued, then Mickie pounded the crap out of Alicia from a mounted position. Mickie was distracted by the other divas, which allowed Alicia to KO - haha, get it? - Mickie and score a pin for the win. Are they going with a Mickie vs. Fox program for the Divas Title now?

WINNERS: Alicia & Beth & Rosa at 2:30. Chance to get some bright colors and flesh on the show. Mickie's in jeopardy as the Divas champion and apparently Fox is being positioned as the next challenger. Or, they just wanted her to win because she had the brightest outfit on or most resembled a character from the Rocky movies. (1/2*)

3 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. MVP & MARK HENRY -- non-title match

Action was joined in progress with MVP taking it to Jericho. Show then tagged in and worked over MVP as Mayweather watched closely from ringside. To clarify, MVP and Henry get a tag title shot at the PPV if they won. Why didn't MVP just ask Mayweather to book a title match for tonight? Logic holes galore in this guest hosting concept. Show put MVP in a full nelson, then turned it into a full nelson slam leading to Jericho tagging in. MVP broke free from Jericho a few times to tease a hot tag to Henry, but Jericho kept cutting him off. They cut to break with MVP still unable to make the tag.

Back from break, MVP still had not made the hot tag to Henry as Jericho continued to cut him off. Jericho then wanted a Lionsault, but MVP moved and Jericho sold a knee injury. MVP finally made the tag to Henry, who cleaned house on Jericho. Great sequence where Jericho tried the codebreaker, but Henry transitioned to a World's Strongest Slam, only for Jericho to counter into a DDT. He barely score a two count, though, and MVP tagged in for Henry. MVP with the Ballin' elbow drop for a two count. Jericho then blocked the Chono Boot and hit an enziguiri kick for a two count. Henry then knocked Show off the ring apron in chaos. Mayweather then walked over to MVP and slipped him a gimmick. Ref didn't see it, then Jericho picked up MVP, only to have MVP blast him in the face with Mayweather's jewelry. Jericho sold it beautifully. MVP with the cover for the win as the crowd exploded for the cheat-to-win tactics. Cue up a C.M. Punk promo. Mayweather then celebrated in the ring with MVP and Henry. Great shot of Show dragging a lifeless Jericho out of the ring slumped over his shoulder.

WINNERS: Henry & MVP at 14:35. Hot segment where they finally gave the crowd something to sink their teeth into in-ring. Jericho continues to perform at a level higher than 98 percent of the roster after carrying this match. He's just that good in the ring telling a story with his mannerisms and body language to go along with his wrestling skills. (**1/2)

4 -- HORNSWOGGLE vs. CHAVO GUERRERO -- Boxing match

Chavo airballed with some head shots and Hornswoggle fired off body shots. Cole just cackling along as Hornswoggle landed a right hand blow. Chavo then took off his gloves behind the ref's back and scooped up Hornswoggle. Ref DQ'ed Chavo. Chavo then had a sinister look on his face as Hornswoggle was KO'ed on the mat. Chavo wanted a top rope frog splash, but Evan Bourne stormed the ring. Awkward initial exchange, then Bourne fired off dropkicks on Chavo. He then went up top for his signature move and nailed the Shooting Star Press on Chavo to a big reaction. Bourne then checked on Horny as Chavo rolled to the floor writhing in pain.

WINNER: Hornswoggle via DQ at 1:05. And so it continues. WWE is at the "We don't have anything for you" stage with Evan Bourne. That's pretty sad. Move him back to ECW or put him on Smackdown. (n/a)

5 -- DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) & VINCE MCMAHON vs. LEGACY (WWE champion RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.) -- No DQ match

McMahon got in a spot, then he tagged out to Hunter, who dumped Cody onto Orton and DiBiase on the floor. Baby oil spill needs to be cleaned up. Legacy then retreated to the entrance ramp to get their game right. Cody hugged Orton around the waist to talk strategy as they cut to break.

Back from break, DiBiase had Hunter in the Million Dollar Dream, but Hunter countered with a DDT in center ring. Hunter and DiBiase recovered on the mat, then HBK took a hot tag. Michaels cleaned house on DiBiase, then knocked Legacy off the heel corner of the ring apron. Michaels then wanted a top rope elbow on DiBiase and he connected. Cody suddenly ran into the ring with a burst of speed and absolutely dropped Michaels with a bulldog. Crowd was red hot, then taken down. Nice sequence. Orton then tagged in to screams of horror from the audience. He began stomping away on Michaels before putting a boot into HBK's gut. It's No DQ, why not take that boot a little lower? Cody then tagged in and went to work on Michaels.

Hunter finally took a hot tag at 11:15 and delivered a "vintage" high knee on Cody. He landed an atomic drop, then hit the spinebuster. This is more familiar with the DX formula. McMahon wanted a piece of the action, but Hunter dropped Cody with the Pedigree in center ring. McMahon then begged for a hot tag. He hit the ring and covered Cody, but Orton broke up the pin. Orton then measured McMahon for The Punt, but Michaels came flying in to block. Orton bailed from the ring. Michaels and Hunter stood their ground in the ring, then John Cena's music suddenly hit to a huge pop with the crowd already red hot. "Uh-oh" was the look on Orton's face. There's Cena for the first time tonight. Cena chased Orton into the ring where Orton took the sweet chin music from HBK. Orton then spun into Cena for the FU. McMahon then picked up the pin on Orton for his big birthday celebration pin. Crowd nuts.

Post-match: Cena was trying to keep his composure in front of the hot crowd. Orton slowly rolled to the outside and played dead while Cena leaned down in the ring and did the You Can't See Me toward him. Cena, McMahon, Hunter, and Michaels then took a curtain call center-ring as Cole talked about Cena having the upper-hand on Orton going into Breaking Point.

WINNERS: DX at 13:38. Crowd was red-hot for the entire second-half of the match. Really nice crowd tonight in Las Vegas. I wouldn't go so far to say DiBiase & Rhodes lost the momentum created last night at Summerslam with them being booked to look like DX's equals, but this didn't help them other than being in a standard TV main event match to bump around for DX. We have come to expect Orton to be booked in a position to look weak ever since the Raw before the Royal Rumble, but that's his job to get fans to think he's vulnerable for Cena to finally get the title back. It worked, as the crowd helped build momentum for Breaking Point with the ending to this match. Looks like an eight-man tag also involving Brett DiBiase could be in the works for Raw next week or the week before BP. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2009, 10:38 am
Ring of Honor Results: 8-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRosenroll's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34735.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 - KEVIN STEEN & EL GENERICO vs. SAMI CALLIHAN & TONY KOZINA

Kozina set a comedic tone for the match by deliberately tripping as he entered the ring. As Steen and Generico made their way to the ring, Hogwood and Prazak talked about their feud with ROH World Tag Team Champions the American Wolves. The announcers said that Steen and Generico needed to win here to get another shot at the American Wolves, and mentioned some of the other contenders in the tag team division, including the Young Bucks and the Briscoe Brothers.

Generico and Steen took an early advantage, but Callihan interfered illegally to give his side the advantage at 2:00 minutes. Callihan and Kozina got a bit of offence in before Steen picked both of them up on his shoulders at the same time and delivered a double Samoan drop. This set up Kozina for Steen and Generico's package piledriver-into-brainbuster combination finisher.

WINNERS: Steen and Generico in 5:30. Decent enhancement match to build up Steen and Generico as contenders in the tag team division.

2 - D'LO BROWN vs. JOHN KERMAN

Kerman did not get a ring entrance, signaling that this would be a squash match. Brown got all the offense, and could have pinned Kerman on a couple of occasions but chose not to. Ultimately, Brown finished off Kerman with his sky high finisher off the ropes. Hogwood said that he would like to see how Brown does against stronger opposition.

WINNER: Brown in 3:00. Just a chance for Brown to establish his arrogant heel persona and a couple of his moves.

3 - ROH champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. RODERICK STRONG -- Non-Title match

Aries came to the ring wearing Hart Foundation pink. The announcers referred to Aries and Strong's history together as Generation Next stable mates, and talked about how big a victory over the ROH World Champion would be for Strong's career. Aries came out aggressively and managed to get Strong in the last chancery submission hold at 2:00, but Strong quickly got his foot to the ropes. After some back-and-forth, Strong took the advantage with a backbreaker at 3:30 and then worked over Aries' chest with some heavy chops.

The action quickly spilled outside the ring, where Aries took control at 6:00 by shoving Strong into the ring post. Aries followed this up with a Randy Savage double axe handle from the top rope, then rolled Strong back into the ring where he continued to work him over in arrogant heel fashion. Strong made a comeback and hit some power moves on Aries, but Aries regained the advantage by countering a half nelson backbreaker into a crucifix bomb at 8:30.

The pace of the action picked up significantly when Strong made another comeback at 11:30. Aries hit Strong with his trademark heat-seeking missile to the outside, then rolled Strong into the ring and went for another Randy Savage double axe handle from the top rope. However, this time Strong caught Aries in mid-flight and hit him with a backbreaker for a near fall. The action continued to go back and forth with both men coming close to winning. Strong got a couple of very close near falls which brought the fans to their feet, and a "this is awesome" chant broke out at 16:30. Strong had the match in hand until Aries countered a Boston crab attempt into a roll-up and got his feet onto the ropes to score a tainted pin out of nowhere.

WINNER: Aries in 17:30. The match built up steadily, getting better and better until an outstanding final few minutes. With more time, this could have been a classic. As it was, it was a very good TV main event.

After the match, Hogwood praised Strong's outstanding showing against the World Champion. The announcers then closed out the show by hyping next week's eight man main event, and also announced that the main event in two week will feature Tyler Black vs. Jerry Lynn.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2009, 02:35 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 8-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34765.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GOLDUST vs. SHEAMUS

Quick collar-and-elbow tie-up to start things off. Sheamus then grounded Goldust on the mat and worked him over with a headlock. Announcers talked up Sheamus as a seasoned veteran when he's really a Rookie of the Year. Striker with the line of the night referencing Henry Rowengartner from the aforementioned baseball classic of our youth. Nicely done. Goldust made a comeback at 3:00, then Sheamus bailed to the floor. Goldust walked into a trap and ate the ring padding on the floor. Sheamus landed right hand blows, then Goldust countered with right hands. Ref's mic was turned up on the ten count, so that's coming into play. Goldust and Sheamus kept brawling ringside. Goldust then smashed Sheamus into the ring steps. Referee reached a ten count and Goldust was upset with the outcome of a double count-out. Sheamus bailed up the entrance ramp as Goldust entered Dustin Rhodes mode. "Come on, Sheamus," he growled.

WINNER: Double count-out at 4:00. I like the progressions of this feud. Really nice and slow making viewers want to see more of these two. The double count-out wasn't a bad thing despite being unsatisfying this week, as it actually built anticipation for what's next. (*)

2 --- SHELTON BENJAMIN & ZACK RYDER vs. TYLER REKS & YOSHI TATSU

Shelton worked on Reks early on, then wanted to tag in Ryder, but Ryder sold concern over his ring gear to ignore a tag request. Reks then tried to sneak up behind Shelton for a small package, but Shelton kicked out. Ryder then tagged in now that he was "ready," and worked over Reks. Shelton back in. Reks escaped Shelton, then Yoshi tagged in and fired up the crowd before going up top. Shelton crotched him, then Ryder got in Shelton's way. Shelton yanked Ryder into the ring, which counted as a tag. Ryder and Shelton argued before Ryder shoved Shelton out of the ring. Ryder tried to catch Yoshi with the Zack Attack, but Yoshio blocked and nailed a big boot to the face for the pin and the win. Afterward, Shelton glared at Ryder and slowly entered the ring about to explode. Ryder tried to explain himself, then Shelton jumped at him and nailed Pay Dirt in center ring. Crowd not sure how to react to heel/face/heel/face Shelton.

WINNERS: Yoshi & Reks in 4:00. Okay tag match. Just advancing the mini-feud between Shelton and Ryder. Yoshi showed fire and personality, whereas we still don't know much about Reks. (3/4*)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL (w/Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson) -- non-title match

They had a brief opening exchange before Christian knocked Regal to the outside. Christian teased a dive to the floor, but Kozlov stood in front of Regal and stared down Christian. Christian thought better of attacking the square jaw and slipped back into the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Regal was in control. Christian fought back, but Regal shoved him to the outside and Christian sold back pain. Ref's ten count drew close to ten, which meant heightened anticipation from the audience. Christian made it back in at nine, prompting Regal to attack Christian with mat holds and strikes. Nice sequence. Regal continue to cut off Christian's comebacks, but Christian blocked Regal's corner attack and climbed up top for a missile dropkick. Christian scored a two count, then fired up the crowd for his big comeback. He exploded off the ropes with a forearm smash, then went to the second rope for another dropkick. Christian went back to the corner and came off the top with another missile dropkick for a two count only, though. Christian then executed a Tornado DDT, but only scored a two count. Lots of two counts for Christian. Regal then shoved Christian to the floor where Christian slapped the taste out of Kozlov's mouth. Back in the ring, Jackson ran interference allowing Kozlov to retaliate with the Iron Headbutt to the gut from the ring apron. Christian then spun back into Regal's giant Knee Strike for the pin and the win. Post-match: Regal stood tall with his hired guns before pointing down at Christian. No word on when his future title match will take place. End show with Christian selling pain (familiar sight) with Regal yelling down at him.

WINNER: Regal in 14:00. There was the very good Summerslam match everyone wanted to see on Sunday. Christian's comebacks were great, Regal's offense was great, and the finish effectively set up the future title match. Should be on the all-submissions PPV with the Regal Stretch coming into play. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 28 2009, 12:53 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34820.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. PRIMO

Swagger started with some mat holds on Primo, who came back with kick strikes. Lawler said Swagger doesn't have many friends in the locker room, but he heard Swagger is hanging out with Carlito. Cole said Swagger got his Jerk of the Month club membership in the latest WWE Magazine. Swagger reversed a whip to the corner, then hit the running Vader Bomb. He channeled Scott Steiner and did some mid-match push-ups before grabbing a rear waistlock. Crowd rallied with a "Primo, Primo" chant. Meanwhile, Lawler with some Univ. of Oklahoma jokes to rib Swagger and former co-host Jim Ross while Swagger kept the hold locked in. Primo broke out of the waistlock, but Swagger elbowed him off the apron to the floor. Swagger in control - and he let the crow know about it - going to break.

Back from break, Swagger was still in control and strutting around the ring to continue letting everyone know about it. Swagger applied a modified Rings of Saturn stretch. Swagger then took his time going for another running Vader Bomb, but Primo rolled out of the way this time. Primo then went to the apron and nailed a springboard chop before firing off a round of dropkicks. He followed with a springboard cross body press for a two count. Primo with a Bret Hart-esque Russian legsweep, but another two count only. Swagger then spun him around with a belly-to-belly suplex. Swagger called for the end and wanted the gutwrench, but Primo blocked and hooked Swagger leg for a small package and a two count. Swagger was sucking air at this point. Primo tried a springboard move, but Swagger ducked and Primo sold a knee injury. Swagger then blasted him with a left-arm lariat and followed with the gutwrench powerbomb for the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 13:00. Okay match. Swagger is in a weird position right now. He was red hot on ECW, then cooled off Raw, and booked to lose clean to MVP at Summerslam. This match was just there for Swagger. It seems like WWE is testing his resolve a little right now to make sure he's a little more humble when and if he gets that big push. It's like they said here's 13 minutes of TV time, you're picking up a win, but we're not putting much emphasis on the match because it's Superstars. What are you going to do to prove you deserve a higher place on the card? Interesting to see where they go with Swagger in the U.S. Title picture. (*1/2)

2 -- THE HURRICANE vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Match started off as an opportunity for Striker to get in his quick-tongued alliterations and comic book references. Hurricane sent Burchill to the floor early on and wanted a dive, but Burchill moved and Hurricane ate the floor. Back in the ring, Hurricane blocked a corner splash with a European Uppercut. He kept his arm extended for an extra moment to emphasize the move. Hurricane teased the Shining Wizard, but Burchill rolled to the outside. Hurricane followed, not wanting Burchill to take the easy way out via count-out. He rolled Burch back into the ring, but Katie grabbed his foot to run distraction. Burchill then rolled up Hurricane with a small package for a three count. Whoa! Burchill won a singles match. It's been a long time since that sentence was written. Afterward, Hurricane sold shock at taking the loss, but then pointed toward a celebratory Burchill to say he's got him figured out now.

WINNER: Burchill in 5:00. Fine match. They're even at 1-1. Very common theme for WWE mid-card feuds recently - split two matches, then set up the rubber match. I'm hoping we get a Best of Seven series down the road from two wrestlers who can really go and make each match seem unique or different. Goldust-Sheamus seems to have the most potential (*)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. MIKE KNOX vs. FINLAY -- #1 contender match to IC Title

Typical start to a three-way match with Ziggler being knocked down on the floor, leading to a Finlay vs. Knox exchange to start. Ziggler then re-entered to break up the first pin attempt of the match. Ziggler and Finlay knocked Knox to the floor, then they battled in the ring. Finlay got the best of Ziggler initially with a hard clothesline. They battled up top, but Knox re-entered and dropped Finlay with an electric chair. Dolph tried to follow right up with a top rope leg drop on Knox, but he moved and all three men were down. Who's going to Breaking Point?

Back from break, Knox was working over Dolph before Finlay tried to re-enter, but he received a driving boot to the throat for his trouble. Dolph and Finlay suddenly hooked up to double suplex Knox. Of course, that working agreement was quickly ended when they couldn't decide who should pin Knox. Finlay then discarded Dolph to the outside to end the disagreement. Dolph kept trying to get involved, but he was cut off repeatedly. Finlay had enough and gave him the Rolling Hills drop for a two count. Finlay with another nearfall, this time against Knox. Setting up Finlay for being "that close" to a victory. Crowd screamed as Knox tried to attack Finlay from behind with the shillelagh, but Finlay ducked a shot and connected with the Celtic Cross drop. Impressive. Knox was out, but but Dolph entered the ring and threw Finlay into the corner ringpost. Dolph then covered Knox's lifeless body and scored the pin for the win. Afterward, they showed Finlay exasperated being "that close" to winning. Dolph celebrated on stage after scoring the heady win. They closed with a plug for Smackdown tomorrow night.

WINNER: Dolph in 14:00 to become #1 contender. Good match for a three-way. Good interaction between all three participants and the match was booked to make Ziggler look smart, Finlay look like a fighting babyface worth rooting for, and to make Knox look tough. Dolph plays that classic under-sized WWE heel so well. He needs to be sneaky to score wins and he pulls it off very well. Finlay probably stood out the most based on the amount of offense he had and the crowd reacting to everything he was doing. Everyone seemed to come out of this match elevated even though it was on the D-Level show, so there wasn't too much elevating that could happen. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2009, 12:42 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 8-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34822.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- SUICIDE vs. SAMOA JOE

Joe was very aggressive right off the bat against Suicide. Daniels was at ringside to scout Joe for his match against him at No Surrender. Suicide came back and dropkicked Joe into the corner. Both men utilized kicks early on. One-legged dropkick for two by Suicide. Right after that, Pope D’Angelo Dinero walked to ringside. “Pope is Pimpin’” chant from the crowd. Well, he is dressed quite nicely. Joe hit a running kick on Suicide, then Suicide went to ringside and started brawling with Dinero. Joe went to the outside and started brawling with Daniels. Then we FINALLY got the bell. Dave Penzer announced that the referee, in his new authority, said the match would continue later tonight as a tag match between the four. That’s kind of going above-and-beyond a referee’s control, I think.

WINNER: No Contest, at 2:04.

2- AWESOME KONG & RAISHA SAEED vs. TRACI BROOKS & SHARMELL

Traci took a timeout before even touching Kong. The ladies seemed to argue about who should start the match off. Sharmell ended up in there with Saeed. Sharmell didn’t spend much time in there, and Saeed took the punishment to Brooks with chops and a slam. Suplex by Saeed for two. Sharmell grabbed Saeed by her headgear and that allowed Brooks to get some choking in and take over on offense. Kong finally tagged in and had her way with Brooks. Traci snuck away before the Implant Buster could be applied, but it didn’t save her much time. Splash off the middle rope by Kong, but Sharmell made the save. Saeed tagged herself in as Kong argued with Sharmell and made the pin herself.

WINNERS: Kong & Saeed, at 3:19. Well, this was probably the right decision, since Sharmell can’t/doesn’t wrestle.

3- JESSE NEAL vs. RHINO

Hopefully, this means this “feud” is almost over. Rhino offered a handshake, and Neal took him up on the offer, but Rhino pulled it back and kicked Neal in the gut. Rhino choked away at Neal, and then did so again. Neal tried to fight back, but Rhino cut him off. Rhino kicked Neal in the head, but Neal kicked out of the pin. Big spinebuster by Rhino for the win.

WINNER: Rhino, at 2:10. God Bless the fans in the Impact Zone, but is there anyone watching at home that cares about these two?

Rhino gored Neal after the match. Fans seemed to be on Rhino’s side. Referee Jamie Tucker reversed the decision, awarding the match to Neal. Rhino continued beating on Neal until Brother Devon ran to the ring and got in between the two. That caused Rhino to leave the ring.

4- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. ABYSS- HANDICAP MATCH

Dr. Stevie accompanied the Guns to the ring. The Guns went after Abyss before the bell, but Abyss came back and chokeslammed Sabin onto Shelley. Abyss splashed Sabin, but missed Shelley, and they combined to kick him in the corner. Springboard dropkick onto Abyss, then they dove on him to take him down on the outside. Back in the ring, Shelley jumped into Abyss’ arms, but Sabin dropkicked him down again, in the same move they just did on the outside. Abyss got Sabin up for the Shock Treatment and Sabin got kicked down. He dropkicked Sabin at the same time he gave the finisher to Shelley. Dr. Stevie got in and tried to assault Abyss, but Sabin came off the top and got caught for a Black Hole Slam.

WINNER: Abyss, at 3:26.

After the match, the Guns beat up Dr. Stevie. Abyss cheered them on from ringside. After the duo left the ring, Abyss got a chair and was threatening Dr. Stevie with it. But Kevin Nash came out and stood on the aisle as the show went to break.

5- DAFFNEY vs. HAMADA- NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

Taz called Daffney “zombie hot.” Tenay gave some background on Hamada, but Daffney started off on offense. Apparently, it was Hamada that requested the no-DQ match. The two women chopped each other, then Daffney ran into a boot. She stomped a mud hole in Daffney in the corner. Hamada round kicked Daffney off the apron and to the outside as they went to break.

Daffney landed a flying forearm in the corner on Hamada out of break. Hamada set up a table outside the ring during the break. Kick to the chest by Hamada, then an enziguiri. Some sad chops from Hamada to take down Daffney. Two headbutts also took her down. Hamada missed a spin kick after arguing with the ref. Daffney with a shining wizard for two. They took the battle to the outside. Steel chair shot, but Daffney dodged it. Hamada put the chair around Daffney’s neck a la Jeff Hardy, and threw her into the ring post. I don’t think the chair made it around the neck though, and Tenay called it as if it was around the head. Daffney was put on the table and Hamada hit a moonsault off the top rope. Taz said Sabu did that to him once. Hamada put Daffney back in the ring. Hamada Driver (a version of the Michinoku Driver) garnered her the victory.

WINNER: Hamada, at 9:27. The match started off not-so-good, but picked up nicely as things went along. Still can’t get over Daffney being treated as a jobber in this division.

6- POPE D’ANGELO DINERO & SAMOA JOE vs. SUICIDE & DANIELS

Joe worked Suicide’s arm early on, but Dinero tagged in and got taken down. Some double-teaming by the faces, then Daniels slammed Dinero down and did a moonsault for two. Daniels continued his offense as they went to break.

Joe was stinging some right hands at Daniels, who appeared to be on rubber leg street, but Daniels was able to take Joe down and both men struggled to get to their corners, but both men did. Springboard back-elbow by Suicide onto The Pope. Joe broke up a Suicide pin attempt and all four men were in the ring. Joe took out Suicide with a clothesline, and Dinero German suplexed Daniels. Split-legged moonsault by Daniels onto Joe on the outside. Springboard cross-body missed by Suicide and Dinero looked to set up for the double-knee in the corner, but he missed. Suicide with a slingshot back into the ring and into a cradle for three.

WINNERS: Daniels and Suicide, at 7:53. Good tag match that showcased two feuds in one.

7- MATT MORGAN & SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T vs. HERNANDEZ & AJ STYLES & STING

Sting was sporting the t-shirt tonight during the match. Book cornered Sting and punched away at his mid-section. Sting fought out with an atomic drop and a dropkick(!). Styles tagged in, as did Steiner. He promptly choked Styles in the ropes. Styles hit the ropes but his head snapped back as he hit the ropes or something like that. Don’t know if I’ve ever seen that before. They tried whatever it was they had planned again and Styles ended up hitting a dropkick as Angle called him “clumsy.” When Hernandez tagged in, Steiner made his way to the heel corner and brought in Morgan. Twisting clothesline by Morgan put Hernandez on the mat. Hernandez got Morgan up for a delayed vertical suplex, British Bulldog style, in an impressive display of strength. Morgan retreated to ringside and Hernandez dove over the top and onto all three men. They went to break after showing a replay.

Steiner had Styles in a side headlock out of break that Styles was busy busting out of. Overhead belly-to-belly by Steiner for two. Morgan came in and Styles got away from him long enough to make the tag to Hernandez, who cleaned house on the Mafia (and Morgan). Morgan went for a big boot in the corner, but Hernandez shoulder tackled him. The faces cleaned house, with Morgan and Hernandez left in the ring. Hernandez missed a corner splash and for some reason, referee Earl Hebner was on the outside trying to break up a fight between guys not even legal. Steiner got a chair, but Morgan got pushed into him and the chair. Styles tagged in and hit his springboard finisher and got the win.

WINNERS: Styles, Sting & Hernandez, at 9:57. It was clear they were building Morgan and Hernandez to be the stars here.

The Mafia members got in the ring and scolded Morgan after the match. Booker in particular got in Morgan’s face. Morgan finally got pissed enough to fight back and took both men down. Angle took the headset off and stared at Morgan- the two yelled at each other from afar as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2009, 12:43 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34856.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JOHN MORRISON & MATT HARDY vs. THE HART DYNASTY

Short-arm clothesline by Hardy, shades of Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Morrison then tagged in and did his fancy hand-spring legdrop. The faces double-teamed Tyson Kidd, resulting in a two-count. Natalya got on the apron long enough to break Hardy’s concentration, and Kidd took advantage. Grisham noted that David Hart Smith had “great wrestling DNA.” He went to work on Hardy, but Matt dodged a neck-breaker and landed a reverse DDT. Morrison tagged in and hit a standing dropkick. Standing shooting-star press (that didn’t catch much of Smith) got a two count. Kidd tried to get involved but was sent to ringside by Hardy, who followed up with a clothesline off the apron. Enziguiri-like kick by Morrison, followed by Starship Pain on Smith for the win.

WINNERS: Morrison and Hardy, at 3:32. JR said he doesn’t think any less of the Harts after this match, but it’s hard not to. Only three-and-a-half minutes? They just beat Jeff Hardy, got some rub from that match, and this is how they capitalize?

2- DREW MCINTYRE vs. R-TRUTH

McIntyre had Phil Collins-like theme music. He was “currently in the ring.” As Truth sang his way into the ring, McIntyre assaulted him before he could finish. He gave some knees to the chest of Truth, then a double-arm DDT it appeared. McIntyre got the mic and told everyone that he’s sorry to ruin everyone’s party. He said the people may like to be entertained, but he’s Drew McIntyre, and the party is over.

WINNER: No Match.

2- LAYLA vs. MELINA

Layla grabbed the arm and kicked at Melina’s upper back. Melina got her feet up on a corner charge, then hit a back elbow and a clothesline. Melina favored her ankle a bit and Layla went after it with a low dropkick. Melina’s comeback consisted simply of her catching Layla coming off the ropes and hitting her finisher, then making the pinfall.

WINNER: Melina, at 1:30.

3- REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE

The match started after Kane made his entrance. Kane started off hot (no pun intended), kicking away at Rey while he was on the ground. Rey fought back, including sliding under Kane’s legs, but Kane clotheslined him down hard. Sidewalk slam for two by the big man. Rey fought out of a bearhug on the mat, but succumbed to a low dropkick from Kane for two. Kane tried another slam, but a headscissors took Kane down face-first into the middle turnbuckle. Seated senton, then Rey jumped on Kane, who fell on his back for two. Off the top, Rey ran right into a right handed thrust to the throat for a two-count. Rey dropkicked the knee of Kane into the 619 position, but Kane grabbed him in a choke. A second time, this time Rey put him on the middle rope with a hurricanrana. Kane dodged Rey trying to hit him on the outside and Rey ran into a big boot. He picked Rey up and slammed him into the ring post chest-first. The ref warned him to get Rey into the ring or he’ll disqualify him. Kane did it anyway, and subsequently was DQ’d.

WINNER: Rey, via DQ, at 4:50. Not bad for what it was. I’ve seen worse from these two.

4- CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHAD GASPARD

Jericho had a nice raspberry on the side of his jaw, perhaps from this Monday. Shad mixed some offensive firepower and some taunting of Jericho into the opening minute. High knee-lift from Shad. He press-slammed one half of the tag champions, then just dropped him down. Shad caught Jericho trying a cross-body, and slammed him down. Jericho got pulled out of the ring by Show on the pin attempt. That led to JTG attacking Big Show on the outside. Shad came to help him, then Jericho got involved. That led to Teddy Long coming out and making it a tag match that will continue after the break. Eerie, since TNA did the exact same thing last night (except they re-started it later in the show).

WINNER: No Contest, about 1:45 (no bell).

5- CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. CRYME TYME

Match had already been re-started out of break. JTG was sent to the outside by Jericho, where Show slapped him hard in the chest. Show tagged in as Jericho proclaimed him a destroyer. Show worked the leg and knee of JTG. Jericho, back in, missed a charge and went shoulder-first into the post, allowing JTG to make the tag to Shad. Shad continued where he left off, taking the fight to Jericho. He got a side slam, but Show made the blind tag. By the time Shad realized what had happened, he was already on the mat after one solid right hand to the face by Big Show. End match.

WINNERS: Jericho & Big Show, at 2:33. Neither of these matches had time to get going. Did JR just call Big Show’s punch a “carcinogenic right hand”?

6- JEFF HARDY vs. C.M. PUNK- STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP- LOSER LEAVES WWE

Punk went to climb the cage as soon as he got in, but Hardy wasn’t having it. He was able to pull Punk back in, but couldn’t capitalize with offense. Suplex in the middle of the ring by Punk after he was thwarted on another attempt to leave. He went up a third time in the first two minutes, but again, Hardy was able to reach him. Punk slammed Hardy’s head against the top of the cage, and Hardy fell down. Punk registered a two-count. Grisham tried to get in some deep word-play about the match that he probably stayed up late at night thinking of, but hilariously, JR interrupted him by calling the match. Punk tried to send Hardy head-first into the cage, but Hardy turned it around and did the same with Punk. Jeff landed Whisper in the Wind for two. After he couldn’t get the pin, they went to break.

Hardy kicked Punk off of him as he tried to leave the cage, then jumped onto Punk in the ring. Hardy tried to leave through the door, but Punk wouldn’t let him take the easy way out, like he does by taking pills and alcohol every day. Sorry, Punk’s promos seeped into my subconscious there. Another catapult, but this time Jeff grabbed the links of the cage and tried to climb out. They both ended up walking the top rope. Hardy punched Punk, who crotched himself, then fell to the mat. Hardy saw the opening and landed the Swanton. Hardy struggled to follow up but did, to the tune of a two-count. Punk was back to his feet first and tried to climb the turnbuckle. Jeff snuck over to the opposite corner and tried to sneak out via the door. Punk saw this and ran over to stop Hardy. He grabbed Jeff’s foot, only to be shot backward thanks to a heel kick. Jeff cross-bodied Punk into the cage. Both men were down, and we got a close-up of Punk and the agony on his face, when they went to break about shy of 11:00 into the match.

Back with Punk getting his upper torso out through the cage, but Hardy holding on. Punk’s hands even touched the ground as he screamed, “I’m out! I’m out!” But he wasn’t, by the rulebook here. The two exchanged punches to the “boo, yay!” of the crowd. GTS was turned into a backslide from Hardy for two. Punk came up holding his shoulder after a pin attempt. Punk again got Hardy up for the GTS, but he countered it into a Twist of Fate. Hardy chose to climb the cage, and straddled the top, but Punk grabbed a leg to stop the challenger. Hardy kicked and punched at Punk and even got to the other side of his cage, hanging out. JR suggested he drop from there and pay the price. But Punk dragged him over to the other side in a headlock, then superplexed him off the top. Crowd was lapping this up, as you’d expect. Punk climbed to the top rope and attempted to escape. He straddled the top this time, but Hardy chased him down. Hardy tried to pull him back over by the head as Punk got all the way over. He poked Hardy in the eye, then slammed his head off the top of the cage. Hardy went falling to the mat, hitting the top rope on the way down, and Punk skulked down off the cage to win.

WINNER: Punk, at 20:52. The more gimmicks, the better for these two it appears. Just as good as any of their other confrontations, though the finish felt a bit anti-climactic. Not Punk winning, but how he did it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 01 2009, 01:59 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-31-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34921.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SIX-DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL

Our contestants are Gail Kim, Beth Phoenix, Rosa Mendes, Jillian Hall, Alicia Fox, and Kelly Kelly. Gail Kim seemed to be in jeopardy late as Jillian Hall taunted her, then tried to toss her over the top rope, but Gail skinned the cat. Gail then kicked Jillian and pulled off a nice spot of whipping Jillian over the top rope to eliminate her. Beth Phoenix snuck in the back door, though, and knocked Gail over the top rope to score the final elimination. Beth gets a shot at Mickie. And that's tonight. Three title matches on the show.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix at 4:10. Nice match-up later with Mickie vs. Beth. Good to see them re-starting a serious push for Beth after the ridiculousness of Beth-Santino(a) finally ended. (n/a)

2 -- Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. MVP

Jericho very aggressive early on taking it to MVP. He landed a few headbutts before taunting MVP and landing boots to the head. He demanded to know where MVP's cheap-way-out brass knucks from Floyd Mayweather last week are. He has a point. Jericho slapped and played around with MVP, then MVP came back with an open hand slap. Forearm exchange went down, then MVP fired up a comeback. Jericho then blocked a move off the ropes and wanted the Walls of Jericho, but MVP shoved him away. Jericho missed with a clothesline, but ran into a Chono Boot for a two count. Good, believable nearfall after a very fast pace to this seemed to set up an early nearfall. Jericho avoided another Chono Boot, then dropkicked MVP off the apron to the floor. We have a two-segment match. Nice. MVP on the floor while Jericho checked his jaw back in the ring.

Back from break, Lawler inserted a plug for Mayweather vs. Marquez on Sept. 19 in Las Vegas. Jericho then inserted a boot into MVP's face, then his gut. Jericho with a running bulldog to quiet things down and let the crowd settle down after getting excited for a comeback. Jericho then wanted a Lionsault, but MVP moved. Jericho was favoring his right knee a bit. He then called a spot for MVP to deliver the Ballin' elbow drop. MVP tried to follow with the Playmaker, but Jericho countered with Walls of Jericho. MVP countered with a small package, but Jericho kicked out just in time. Jericho the master of selling a nearfall ala the Rey Mysterio series. Jericho then nailed the codebreaker out of nowhere and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Jericho at 8:45. Really nice match. Jericho just makes everyone look like a million bucks in the ring. (**1/2)

3 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. HORNSWOGGLE -- Texas bullrope match

I wonder what someone who has never seen wrestling or knows little about wrestling would think flipping over to Raw during a commercial break in the NFL game right now. Horny tried to tie up Chavo with the bullrope early on and ride him like a cowboy, but Chavo threw a boot in the air and connected with Hornswoggle's head. Chavo then took off the cow head and went up top. He wanted a frogsplash, but Evan Bourne ran to ringside to distract Chavo. Horny then yanked Chavo off the top rope with the rope and put the cow head on backwards. Horny followed by running circles around Chavo before tying him up to win the match. Cole pronounced with a deadpan voice: "Hornswoggle wins again." Chavo attacked Bourne post-match, but Bourne came back with a kick to the face on Chavo. Horny then hit a tadpole splash with the cow head on with Bourne's help. Some people in the crowd ate it up. Others looked sick to their stomachs. Bourne and Hornswoggle celebrated post-match and ...wait for it...stood tall in the ring to close the segment.

WINNER: Hornswoggle at 1:55. WWE wins. I admit it. They've broken my spirit because I've lost hope this is going to end. (n/a)

4 -- Unified tag champion BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY

They started with a nice little shoving match. A stand-off. Nice star. This is the match Henry vs. Masters should have been on Superstars two weeks ago. Show wanted a test of strength and Henry obliged. Crowd buzzing for the battle of big men. Show sold being on the defensive, so he kneed Henry in the gut. Show tried a headbutt, but he sold beoming woozy. Henry then delivered a headbutt and Show dropped to one knee. Lawler channeled Gorilla Monsoon on what happens when Hulk Hogan meets Andre the Giant. Not sure which one is Hogan here. Show then flew off the ropes and speared Henry mid-ring that drew a gasp from the crowd. Nice spot. Henry then came back with a brickwall chest bump that knocked Show off his feet. He followed with the big splash, but Show escaped a pin attempt. Show then took off the top turnbuckle pad behind the ref's back. Ref Robison reprimanded him, then Henry charged and ate the expose steel. Ref DQ'ed Show, who followed with the Big Right Hand smash on Henry that KO'ed him. Show was pleased with his work and slowly left the ring. Announcers talked up Jericho and Show getting the upper hand this week after MVP and Henry had the upper hand last week.

WINNER: Henry via DQ at 5:15. I liked this match. It was a big man battle done right building up intrigue to see which big man would be off his feet first and ultimately last. Didn't get a conclusive finish to build intrigue for a future match-up. Nice set-up for the tag title match at Breaking Point too. Well done. (*1/2)

5 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. CARLITO vs. THE MIZ -- U.S. Title match

First pin or submission wins. Bell sounded and Miz bailed to the floor waiting to pick his spot to get back in the ring. Miz thought he had a chance on Kofi, but Kofi cut him off. Kofi then cleared Miz to the outside and dumped Carlito onto Swagger on the outside. Kofi then landed a leap-over-the-top-rope splash onto the three heels. Kofi in control cutting to break.

Back from break, Swagger had Kofi in a submission hold. Miz was slowly moving around on the floor looking for his opportunity. Carlito snuck in, though, and landed a missile dropkick on Miz for a two count that Kofi broke up. Carlito, angered, blasted Kofi with right hand blows. Kofi came back with a top rope dropkick on Miz and Carlito, then Swagger chucked Kofi into the ringpost. Swagger then measured Miz for a running Vader Bomb, but Miz got his knees up to block. Kofi then stacked up Swagger and Carlito for a double Boom Boom leg drop, but Miz broke up the pin. Here's a flurry of a finish: Swagger wanted the gutwrench on Carlito, but Miz dropped Swagger with the Skullcrushing Finale from behind. Carlito then immediately nailed Miz with the backstabber. Kofi with the final word, though, as he blasted Carlito with the Trouble in Paradise kick on Carlito for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston at 8:30 to retain the U.S. Title. Very nice flurry at the end. Good energy with a sense of urgency from all four men to score the win. WWE put the right focus on the mid-card division, but they still aren't putting any focus on an individual feud that could really mean something and command a higher place on a PPV.

6 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. BETH PHOENIX -- Divas Title match

Typical start to the match with Beth on the offensive dominating to build up Mickie's comeback. Beth cut off Mickie's first comeback with a smashing kick strike, then the action moved to the floor after Beth blocked the trademark Mickie top rope head scissors. Beth then smashed Mickie into the ring steps and took her back into the ring for a nearfall. Beth couldn't finish off Mickie, then Mickie hit a Chick Kick and dropped Beth on her head with a Mickie DDT. Beth sold it as if she was paralyzed sitting upright. Mickie then shoved her to the mat and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Mickie at 4:55 to retain the Divas Title. Nice, high-energy match with five minutes of dedicated TV time to a singles divas match. (*1/2)

7 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES -- WWE Title match -- John Cena special referee

Before the match started, Dusty took the mic and said there's nothing a father would do for his son. Suddenly, Orton and Cody jumped Cena. Dusty watched as Ted DiBiase then stormed the ring and took out Cena. Suddenly, DX's music hit and Michaels and Hunter stormed the ring. Hunter teased the Pedigree on Cody, but Dusty took his boot to Hunter's head. Legacy beat down Michaels, then Cody gave him Cross Rhodes in center ring. Heat was off the chars for this. Orton shook like the great evil character he is, then he put another boot to Cena's head. Dusty stood tall with Rhodes, DiBiase, and Orton and they did a curtain call to big heat.

Dusty and Cody hugged, then Orton suddenly gave Dusty the RKO. Cody seethed and yelled at Orton. "Why, man, why?!" Cody thought it over as Orton turned and shot him this evil look. Cody fought the urge to fight for his dad or fall in line with Orton. Crowd yelled at Cody to do something. Credits came on as Cody stood next to Dusty's boot. Orton's mind control was taking over Cody as he thought things over. Crowd was chanting as the hard cam pulled away to reveal chaos in the ring with DiBiase in one corner and Orton standing across the ring from a contemplative Cody to close the show.

WINNER: No match occurred.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 02 2009, 02:31 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 9-1-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_34955.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. ZACK RYDER

Shelton missed with an early Stinger Splash and Ryder capitalized with a neckbreaker for a two count. Ryder grounded Shelton on the mat with a reverse chinlock and shouted at no one in particular that Shelton's nothing. Shelton broke free, then hopped over the top rope to the ring apron. He waited for Ryder to turn around, then he nailed springboard Blockbuster. Nicely done. He followed with the Pay Dirt facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton in 4:00. Okay TV match. Really wish they would give these guys more than four minutes to put together a compelling TV match. Ryder had some offense early on to look somewhat credible, which the announcers put over in the post-match replays. (*)

2 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON & KOZLOV (w/William Regal) vs. JIM PARKS & MIKE TOLAR

Kozlov and Jackson just methodically tagging in and out of the ring delivering a beating early on. Jim Parks was shouting instructions from the apron and Jackson grew tired of his encouragement to Tolar, so he chucked him into the ringpost. Jackson delivered his uranage, then Kozlov politely asked for a tag. Jackson obliged and Kozlov delivered his Iron Curtain uranage for the easy pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kozlov & Jackson in 2:00. Set-up for the post-match. It was pretty unique to watch the two big monsters just politely tag in and out without exerting much effort. Nice dynamic. (n/a)

3 -- GOLDUST vs. SHEAMUS -- No DQ, No Count-out match

Aggressive start, then Sheamus shoved Goldust into the corner and told him that he's nothing. Sheamus then slapped Goldust across the face and Goldust responded with a hard slap of his own. Goldust then hit a dropkick that sent Sheamus to the floor. Sheamus tried to leave, but Goldust ran him down with a hard clothesline. Goldust in control on the ramp going to break.

Back from break, Sheamus was in control before knocking Goldust to the outside. Kids on the front row screamed at Sheamus for taking it to their temporary hero. Sheamus then bent Goldust's back around the ringpost to inflict damage. Sheamus glared at the fans ringside, then slid back into the ring for a cover and a nearfall. Sheamus then settled into a mat hold with the crowd getting behind Goldust to make a comeback.

Match continued at the top of the hour with a "Let's go Goldust" chant. This program has definitely connected with the audience thanks to nice TV build. Formula for the Raw mid-card that has yet to be followed. Goldust broke free at 10:00 and they entered a dueling slap fest. Goldust then fired off the ropes with a hard clothesline and an atomic drop. Goldust with a flying bulldog. Not much facepaint left at this point, then Goldust walked into a kick to the knee. Suddenly, Goldust rolled up Sheamus with a small package for a two count. Goldust nailed a powerslam, but another two count only. Sheamus then rolled to the outside to take a breather. Goldust answered with a running clothesline off the ring apron. Sheamus suddenly rammed Goldust into the ringpost. Both men seemed winded and the match came to a brief halt.

Back in the ring, Goldust fired himself up and landed straight right hands. Goldust with a Natural bulldog attempt, but Sheamus threw him away and stomped a mudhole in Goldust. Sheamus then drove a knee into Goldust's throat. Crowd needed a boost and Goldust landed a trademark uppercut, but Sheamus fired off a bicycle kick out of nowhere. He followed with his big Irish Curse backbreaker across his knee. Sheamus with the pin for the clean win. That's called elevating a young talent. After they replayed the highspots of the match, the camera focused on Sheamus celebrating with a heel smile on the floor to close the show.

WINNER: Sheamus in 13:00. Very good TV match by WWE's standards. Crowd has definitely bought into this feud and they were into the action. As I said in the match report, this is the formula for the Raw mid-card if they want to develop some stars on a bigger stage by focusing on a one-on-one feud. Match seemed to peak around 11:00 when both men appeared to be winded, but they finished strong with a nice flurry of offense from Sheamus to win the match. WWE is obviously very high on Sheamus, who is delivering a breakthrough performance in this feud with Goldust. Well done. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 04 2009, 12:47 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35009.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Masters with an early clothesline that Cole called "vintage." Masters followed with a vintage foot stomp and vintage clubbing forearm to the upper back. Bourne tried to escape Masters by going up top, but Masters emphatically press-slammed him off the top rope. Bourne then rolled to the outside to recover going to break.

Back from break, Paul Roma had Lex Luger's Torture Rack on Bourne. Bourne escaped, then teased a comeback, but Masters cut him off again. Masters stared talking trash that Bourne has nothing, then he put Bourne in the Dominator submission position to work the lower back. Bourne slipped out, then Masters clotheslined him onto the mat. Bourne with an inside cradle as Masters continued to take his sweet time working over Bourne leading to Bourne's comeback. Cole said Bourne scoring a pin on Masters would be an upset. How is that? Apparently Bourne being associated with Hornswoggle is an instant credibility-killer. Bourne then avoided the Masterlock and rammed Masters into the corner ringpost. Bourne followed right up with the Shooting Star Press for the pin and the win. Cole repeated that Bourne has upset Masters.

WINNER: Bourne in 12:00. I understand the Bourne Story having a stronger connection with the audience if he's built up as an underdog, but Cole being produced to repeat the line about Bourne pulling an upset over Masters was so ridiculous. Masters was one TV victory over Shockmaster Santino since returning to WWE while Bourne has probably had 15+ TV victories this year. Just the backwards mentality that a smaller guy winning a match over a bigger guy is automatically an upset. Match wasn't that good. Very slow and too methodical from Masters, who had 90 percent of the offense to retain some measure of credibility. (1/2*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL (w/Kozlov and Jackson) vs. TYLER REKS

Announcers said ECW champ Christian is probably watching this match intently since Regal is the #1 contender to the title. Regal dominated early on while his men watched intently from his outside. "Break his neck!" Kozlov shouted at Regal. Announcers whispered that Jackson and Kozlov are studying their master to learn and grow themselves. Could use Christian on commentary right about now. Reks countered a take down into a backslide for a two count, then Regal went right to a mat submission. Reks then broke free and went for a springboard splash, but Regal ducked and followed right up with the Running Knee Smash for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Kozlov delivered his Iron Curtain uranage slam. Jackson then scooped up the remaining Reks parts and delivered his uranage. Regal then shouted down at Reks that no one can top his group.

WINNER: Regal in 5:00. Another methodically paced match. Good focus on Regal as the #1 contender for the ECW Title, although still no word on when Regal is cashing in his #1 contender status. (*)

3 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG) & EVE vs. HART DYNASTY (D.H. SMITH & TYSON KIDD & NATALYA)

The "culture clash" started with JTG and Smith battling mid-ring. Smith blocked a charge off the ropes and powerslammed JTG to the mat. Smith missed with a corner splash, then JTG dropkicked him in the back and monkey flipped him to the mat for a two count. Shad then tagged in and JTG whipped him into Smith. Eve then took a tag, which means Natalya must enter. They had a brief exchange before JTG tagged back in along with Kidd. JTG knocked Kidd to the outside, then Kidd ran around the ring and back to his corner to tag in Smith, who chopblocked JTG from behind. JTG rolled to the outside to recover as they cut to break.

Back to Superstars action where Smith and Kidd tagged in and out working over JTG to isolate him from the CT corner. Kidd so great with his facial expressions and screaming while working over an opponent. JTG teased and milked a hot tag to Shad that the crowd was on the edge of their seats for, then he broke free of Kidd with an enziguiri and tagged in Shad, who cleaned house. Natalya suddenly blind-tagged into the match to put an end to Shad's momentum since Eve had to tag in per the rules. Action broke down anyways with bodies flying everywhere. Eve missed with a handspring elbow in the corner (Ross with a Great Muta reference), then Natalya blasted her with a discus clothesline. With the men everywhere else, Natalya pinned Eve for the win. After the match, both sides regrouped and HD raised their hands in victory to close the show.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty in 14:00. Smackdown delivered the match of the night, but they were up against two slow, methodical singles matches this week. Good energy from everyone involved with HD picking up a nice win without really settling an issue to keep this program going. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 04 2009, 10:57 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 9-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35010.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) STING vs. RHINO

At least they're putting Rhino out of his misery early. Tenay says that we're doing both rounds tonight, which is cool. Taz tries to make sense of the fact that Rhino's in this match despite being already booked at No Surrender. It doesn't go well. Sting starts things off with a quick whip into the corner and a couple of Stinger Splashes. He kicks Rhino's legs out from under him, and holy shit, that's the Scorpion Death Lock. He reaches the ropes. I'm actually surprised it didn't end there—they really enjoy burying Rhino. Rhino comes back with a shoulder block in the corner. He hits some strikes to the kidneys and abdomen. Rhino works the Body Scissors, out of which Sting powers. Rhino comes up punching and chopping. Sting reverses a whip into the corner, but whiffs on the Stinger Splash and bounces back into a Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Rhino goes for a Gore, but Sting sidesteps and hits the Scorpion Death Drop. It's over.

WINNER: Sting in four minutes. At least I don't have to change my "poor Rhino" catch phrase.

(2) CHRIS SABIN vs. AJ STYLES

AJ and Sabin trade Arm Drags to start, then Head Scissors. AJ eventually shoots Sabin off and nails his high dropkick. Sabin rolls to the outside. AJ comes after him with a Baseball Slide, but Sabin gets back into the ring and comes back out with a Twisting Leg Scissors on AJ. It's really very impressive. He hoists AJ up and into the barricade before rolling him back into the ring. AJ creates some distance, but Sabin follows him with a running knee. Taz says that this kind of wrester is why he came to TNA. AJ catches an attempted kick from Sabin and whips his leg out from under him. He connects with a couple big clotheslines. Sabin Back Body Drops him out to the apron, but AJ just comes back with a Flying Forearm for two. AJ looks for a Styles Clash, but it's reversed into a Victory Roll for two. Sabin tries to come back with the Cradle Shock. AJ fights it off and puts Sabin on the top rope. Sabin tries to come back with a Tornado DDT, but AJ catches him and reverses it into a Gut Wrench Suplex. Sabin comes back fighting; AJ looks for his Float Over Inverted DDT in the corner, but Sabin reverses it into a Snapmare and hits a high boot in the corner. Sabin tries to hit a Slingshot Flying Forearm of his own, but AJ dodges and nails the Pele. AJ follows up with the Styles Clash for the kill.

WINNER: AJ Styles in six minutes. Remember when TNA used to have this sort of match as their staple? Those were good days. Shelley gives Taz his MCMG dog tag.

(3) DOUG WILLIAMS vs. SUICIDE

Suicide and Williams do a bit of chain wrestling to start, trading wrist locks, hammerlocks, etc. Williams eventually connects with a kick to Suicide's head. He tries to leapfrog him, but gets caught in an Oklahoma Roll for what looked a lot like 3 but wasn't. Williams shoots off Suicide into the ropes and catches him in a Back Drop. He hits a fairly brutal looking knee to Suicide's head, then chokes him against the ropes. Williams then locks in some sort of Chicken Wing/Neck Vise. A Knee Drop gets two. Williams goes for a Suplex, but Suicide lands on his feet. He gets in a few shots before Williams gets him back down with a Spinning Elbow for two. He follows up with a straight punch and a choke. A Snap Suplex gets two. He hits a high knee in the corner, but when he goes to follow up from the top rope Suicide jump kicks him down. Suicide gets up first and connects with a series of right hands. Williams dodges a charge, but Suicide jumps onto the middle rope and comes back with a dropkick. He hits his wacky Reverse Neck Breaker, and D'Angelo Dinero decides that this would be a good time to hit ringside. Suicide goes to the top rope, and decides to go after Dinero first with a Cross Body Block. Unfortunately he walks back into Williams's one awesome move, the Rolling German Suplex, for three.

WINNER: Doug Williams in seven minutes. This might have been Williams's best outing, not that he's had many as a singles star.

(4) SOJO BOLT & HAMADA vs. CHRISTY HEMME & TARA

The heels come out separately. The faces come out to Tara's music and a mixed video. I wonder who's staying a team for more than five minutes? Hamada and Victoria lock up to start. Hamada has some fan base—I wonder if that's support for her father or that Moonsault last week? Tara rolls through with a bridge for two. She and Hamada trade covers and do the stand-off-of-even-matched-ness, but they didn't hit the covers that well so they only get some courtesy applause. Hamada hits a cheap shot. Tara whips her into the corner, but she comes back with a beautiful Spring Board Moonsault for two. Both women tag out. Christy hits a standing FFG for two, so Sojo tags right back out. Tenay and Taz argue over whether it's okay to say "crotch" on TV. Sadly that's more interesting than the match thus far.

We come back just in time to see Christy get between Hamada's legs to make the tag to Tara. Sojo tags in as well, so that Tara can floor her with a couple of clotheslines and a kick that Hamada breaks up at two. Christy deals with the interfering Hamada with an Inverted DDT while Tara finishes off Sojo with the Widow's Peak.

WINNER: Tara & Christy. DUD.

(5) HOMICIDE vs. HERNANDEZ

I really don't want them to turn Homicide, though I guess if it led to a push it'd be okay. They share a handshake to start. They lock up, which doesn't go well for Homicide. He signals that he forgot that Hernandez is twice his size. Hernandez takes him over for a Back Drop, but he lands on his feet and nails some quick strikes. He looks for a Sunset Flip, but Hernandez lifts him up by the throat. Homicide fights it for a second, but he eventually connects with the Cracker Jack. He tries to follow up with the Border Toss, but Homicide reverses it with a dropkick to the knee then slams Hernandez head first into the mat. He tries to follow up with strikes in the corner, but Hernandez powers out. Homicide takes the leg out again, and stands on it a bit. Homicide hits a couple of shoulder blocks, then goes back to exclusively targeting the left leg. He tries to finish off Hernandez with a Tornado DDT, but Hernandez places Homicide back in the corner and hits the Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Homicide comes off the ropes, but Hernandez catches him with some sort of Front Slam whose name I forget.

WINNER: Hernandez in four minutes. They tried to make this look plausible, but Hernandez doesn't quite have the art of selling for a little guy down yet. Is Hernandez actually getting to a main event, or is the EY wackiness still to come?

(6) DOUG WILLIAMS vs. AJ STYLES
Kurt, on commentary, acknowledges that it's in his interests for Williams to win. I like that he's not playing the generic "take-all-comers" card. Oh wait, I guess the match isn't starting yet.

AJ and Williams lock up to start, but neither gains an advantage. AJ gets a single leg takedown. We get our second round of chain wrestling of the night. Williams gets an ankle takedown. He looks for a Bow and Arrow, but AJ reverses into a quick cover for two. They get up brawling, but Williams stops it with a side headlock. AJ shoots him off, but Williams stops his momentum with another side headlock. AJ finally gets away, hits a Body Slam, a Knee Drop for two, and…an Indian Death Lock? Who knew he knew that move? Williams gets out, and they get up brawling. AJ dodges a charge in the corner, but when he tries to come back off the top rope Williams catches him and drops him into a European Uppercut. Williams locks in a head scissors and pounds his head into the mat. Does anyone know where I've seen that sequence before? It's annoyingly familiar. They get up brawling again, but crack heads. It did not look especially intentional, but they both look fine. They get up brawling yet again. Williams comes off the ropes, and right into the high dropkick from AJ. He rolls out of the ring, and AJ follows him out with a Somersault Plancha. AJ rolls him back in, but the cover only gets two. AJ locks in…a Torture Rack? Did I miss a memo about New Move Day? He transitions into a Neck Breaker for two. He sets Williams up on the top rope, but Williams shoves him back to the mat and comes off the top with a Corkscrew Elbow for two. Williams unloads with a flurry of impactful strikes but walks right into a 360 Degree Clothesline. AJ looks for a Styles Clash, Williams goes behind and looks for the Rolling German, but AJ gets to the turnbuckle and floats over into the Inverted DDT for game.

WINNER: AJ Styles in seven minutes. I think this would have been a good match if the conclusion had not been foregone—it's hard to tell. As it was it just felt dull.

(7) HERNANDEZ vs. STING

Hernandez hits shoulder blocks to Sting to start, but then backs off and asks the ref to check on him. Sting comes back with a side headlock. He ducks below an attempted clothesline, hits a series of strikes, and then lands a dropkick. He lands on his ribs though, and writhes in pain. Hernandez doesn't seem sure what to do. Eventually he decides to go with flow and attacks the ribs. Hebner warns him off, but I'm not sure why. Hernandez Pounces Sting across the ring, so Sting rolls out of the ring for a breather. "Homicide" runs down to ringside and attacks Sting with a baton, costing Hernandez the match by DQ.

WINNER: Sting by disqualification, in two minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 05 2009, 01:46 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-4-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35043.shtml)

1 -- FINLAY & GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) vs. MIKE KNOX & KANE
WINNERS: Finlay & Khali in 10:00. Fine tag match continuing the Knox-Finlay feud and building up a PPV match. (*1/2)

2 -- IC champion REY MYSTERIO vs. JOHN MORRISON -- Intercontinental Title match
WINNER: John Morrison in 26:00 to capture the Intercontinental Title. Wow. Felt like I was watching Undertaker vs. HBK all over again with the multiple legit nearfalls, the counters, the use and teasing of trademark finishes to build crowd anticipation, and all of the elements of an amazing pro wrestling match. Crowd was also red-hot from start to finish just like HBK vs. Taker. Grisham wasn't kidding when he said before the match this would be a five-star-caliber match. I think what also made this that close to a five-star level was the emphasis on the title belt at stake. The little things like Rey rolling Morrison back into the ring instead of taking an easy way out to win, plus Jim Ross's commentary on this being a fight for money, prestige, higher place on the card, etc. Rey went out in style before taking his suspension. (****3/4)

3 -- MARIA & EVE vs. NATALYA & LAYLA
WINNERS: Maria and Eve in 5:00. Okay divas match. Positioned as a filler match in-between the two main-event singles match, which isn't a bad place to be. Can't complain about TV time in the second hour of a hot show. (3/4*)

4 -- World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. MATT HARDY -- non-title match
WINNER: Hardy via DQ at 17:00. Good TV main event. Hard to follow the Rey-Morrison near-five-star match, but Punk and Hardy had a fundamentally-sound match that held its own in the final segment slot. We assume Hardy will get his conditioning down after getting back in the ring for some more two-segment-length matches. Punk is just so in tune with his character right now. He was born for this role. Taker's appearance one hour and 58 minutes into the show was a bit misleading per the pre-show advertising, but crowd went home happy with Taker putting Punk through the table. Good conclusion to a very good show to keep Taker strong on TV when Punk is expected to find a way to win at the Breaking Point PPV. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 08 2009, 02:25 pm
Ring of Honor Results: 9-7-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article1007725.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Jay and Mark Briscoe defeated Kenny King and Rhett Titus in 12:30. King and Titus came out with two random girls. Nice. No handshake as the Briscoes jumped King and Titus. The Briscoes controlled the offense early, getting a nearfall with an STO from Mark and top rope senton from Jay. King made a hot tag to Titus while Mark was trying a sunset flip and Titus got a nearfall with a double-team lungblower.

A chant of "Man Up" broke out. Titus and King continued on the offense while somebody in the audience laughed like a douchebag and drew a "Shut the f--- up" chant. Mark tried to tag out, but Titus pulled Jay off the apron and King hit an Elijah Express.

Mark finally tagged out to Jay, who hit about four clotheslines and then a dropkick, and followed that up with a sick spinebuster. King tagged out to Titus, who hit a top rope X-Factor for a nearfall, then tagged in King and set up Jay for the powerbomb/blockbuster combo, but Jay reversed it into a huracanrana.

The Briscoes tried some double team work on King, but he ducked everything up until twin superkicks, followed by a Doomsday Device for the pin. Post match, the American Wolves came out and Davey Richards told them that they should cherish these moments, because they'll just cripple them again. Eddie Edwards took the mic and started to say that the hunt was on, but Kevin Steen and El Generico came out and the two babyface teams beat up the Wolves, then had a three-way standoff.

Joe's Judgment: Not a great match. It was nice seeing the Briscoes back, but Hogewood and Prazak, as well as the crowd, seemed disinterested and it really took me out of the match. King was pretty good though, and I am looking forward to seeing the ROH tag division heat up.

2. Eddie Kingston defeated Sal Rinauro in 0:20. Rinauro kneeled down and prayed before the match started, then stood up, got punched in the face, and ate a Backfist to the Future for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: I love watching Kingston beat people up. Nice storyline progression, and I love Rinauro taking Hero's place playing off of him getting punched out twice in five minutes. Kingston vs. Hero is signed for Glory By Honor VIII, and I can't wait.

3. Nigel McGuinness defeated Aaron Scott in 6:20. Scott didn't get an entrance, but he did get some nearfalls. Nigel worked exclusively on the mat for most of the match, which was as close to a squash as a mat wrestling match can be. In the finish, Scott ducked a Jawbreaker Lariat, but Nigel connected with a DDT for the pin.

After the match, he applied the London Dungeon and Scott tapped out, even though the match was over.

Joe's Judgment: I'm glad Nigel signed with the WWE so he can heal his arms. It's kind of sad to see him unable to do much beyond the mat wrestling and the occasional DDT or Tower of London.

4. Jerry Lynn defeated Tyler Black in 16:45. Holds and counter holds from both wrestlers for the first five or so minutes. Lynn worked on Black's arm with various armbars. Black fought out and hit a dropkick for a nearfall. Black got another nearfall after a back body drop.

At 8:00, Lynn tried an O'Connor Roll, but Black held the ropes. They both tried crossbodies and ran into each other. Nigel McGuinness came down the ramp as Lynn got a nearfall with a sunset flip. Black tried a quebrada, but Lynn moved, so Black hit a standing shooting star press. Black kicked Lynn in the head and tried a Paroxysm, but Lynn floated over into an inverted DDT for a nearfall.

They exchanged nearfalls, and then Black hit a Pele kick and tried the running forearm in the corner. Lynn backdropped him to ringside and then hit a springboard moonsault as Nigel applauded. Lynn brought the action back inside and legdropped the back of Black's neck.

Black went for the buckle bomb, but Lynn countered into a huracanrana sending Black into the turnbuckles. He hit a top rope sunset flip and then a TKO for a nearfall, then went for the cradle piledriver, but Black countered into a TKO of his own for another nearfall. He got Lynn up and hit a Paroxysm for yet another nearfall, then hit the buckle bomb and superkick and covered, but Nigel put Lynn's foot on the ropes. Black pointed to Nigel who denied doing anything. Black went for God's Last Gift, but Lynn countered into a small package for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: Not the best of main events. The match was slow paced and there were too many nearfalls that couldn't be taken seriously. Overall, it just felt disjointed and wasn't a great way to close the show. Nigel's interaction was fairly well done, but I'm not sure what his motivation was, because it was a face vs. face match and he had never given any indication that he would rather see Lynn win than Black.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 08 2009, 02:44 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35115.shtml) or check my blog at TOKYOPOP for complete results since posts above 10k characters don't fly around here...

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. MVP
WINNER: MVP at 11:02. Another great finish to a match that was stalling around 9:00. Jericho is so great at putting together a flurry at the end leading to the finish. Jericho teasing the Walls of Jericho and MVP escaping really built up the crowd. Related to building up the PPV, there was zero emphasis on the submission aspect of their match at Breaking Point and MVP doesn't even have a submission hold in his arsenal. I don't even know why they created a Submissions PPV when there is little emphasis on submissions in WWE. (**1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. CHAVO GUERRERO
WINNER: Evan Bourne at 4:20. Bourne's credibility is completely shot, although audiences are just having so much fun with Bourne and Hornswoggle that they're just so willing to look past the idea that Bourne needed four minutes to win a match that would have taken Hornswoggle one minute. (1/2*)

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. CODY RHODES
WINNER: Cena via DQ at 10:35. Expected finish to build up Cena vs. Orton for the PPV and save Cody from taking a "Miz" clean loss to Cena. Cody was given a lot of offense and credibility by avoiding Cena's typical offensive attack, similar to Cody and Ted avoiding DX's usual routine at Summerslam. Cody is being built like a star more than DiBiase right now. (**1/2)

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. SANTINO -- Bodyslam challenge
WINNER: Big Show at 0:16. (n/a)

5 -- BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY -- Bodyslam challenge
WINNER: I liked last week's match. I didn't like this week's. This dragged unmercifully. More signs pointing to Jericho and Show retaining on Sunday with the challengers looking strong on TV. (n/a)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & CHRIS MASTERS vs. DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H)
WINNERS: DX at 14:10. WWE's backwards booking on display trying to make the storylines fit the PPV concept instead of letting the storylines naturally flow into the PPV. Tag match was okay with Masters just there to bump around for DX, but not add much. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 09 2009, 02:54 pm
ECW on SciFi Results: 9-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35153.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. THE HURRICANE

Hurricane landed an early European Uppercut as Striker debated whether Hurricane is or is not Gregory Helms to enhance the mystique of the character. He suggested Hurricane could have a twin named Sydney Helms. Yeah, that's it. Hurricane applied an abdominal stretch into an octopus stretch that Burchill escaped before nailing a clothesline to begin an offensive attack. Hurricane was in jeopardy near the ropes at 4:00, prompting some kids to scream. Definitely a good sign for the character that the kids are buying into him being in jeopardy. Action moved to the floor and Burchill dropped Hurricane hard onto the mat. Both men down, ref counting, let's grab a break.

Back from break, Burchill was in control, but he missed with a running shoulder tackle in the corner. Hurricane then went up top and nailed a high cross-body block, but Burchill escaped a pin attempt. Action moved up top again where Burchill elbowed Hurricane into position for a top rope powerslam. Striker referenced Bam Bam Bigelow with the Bam Bam Slam. Nice reference. Great spot. Hurricane kicked out at two, though. Hurricane then blocked another corner charge and nailed a Hurricane-rana for a two count. Burchill sold it well. Katie then became involved, but Hurricane made it back-fire by ramming Burchill into Katie to bump her off the apron. Hurricane then followed up with the Eye of the Hurricane for the pin and the win to the delight of the audience.

WINNER: Hurricane in 12:00. Another very nice TV match. ECW is really letting their mid-card wrestlers do their thing in the ring. It's very refreshing when the Raw brand doesn't even have a mid-card. One of Burchill's best performances I've seen in his WWE career. Helms looks good since making another return from injury. (**1/2)

2 -- GOLDUST & YOSHI TATSU vs. SHEAMUS & SHELTON BENJAMIN

Shelton and Goldust started things off, then Sheamus came in and picked up his feud against Goldust. Announcers loosely talked about the main event of Sheamus vs. Goldust last week, which needed more emphasis than just mid-match chatter after they delivered a special match. Shelton and Yoshi battled, then Yoshi crawled to Goldust in the corner for a tag, but Shelton ran around the ring and yanked Goldust down to the floor. Sheamus and Shelton then resumed their attack on Yoshi. Yoshi suddenly blasted Sheamus with a kick strike and Goldust came in to work on Sheamus with a flurry of offense. Sheamus let Goldust wear himself out, then Sheamus blasted him in the corner with a kick to the face. Shelton blind-tagged himself into the match, then made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Shelton & Sheamus in 5:00. Apparently this was the transition from Sheamus to Goldust to Sheamus vs. Shelton. Perhaps we'll finally get a clear character definition for Shelton as a babyface opposing the strong heel Sheamus. Match was just there to transition to the post-match brawl. (*)

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. RORY FARGO

Ryder took control early on and trash-talked to his "bro" Rory. Ryder then slingshot Rory into the second turnbuckle throat-first. Ryder followed with the Zack Attack for the pin and the win. Woo woo woo.

WINNER: Ryder in 2:00. Nice use of the squash match formula to enhance Ryder. He just needed to get his hand raised on ECW TV after a series of losses. (n/a)

4 -- ECW champ CHRISTIAN & TOMMY DREAMER vs. KOZLOV & EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/William Regal)

Bell sounded and the vocal minority started an "E-C-Dub" chant for Dreamer. Christian stared off against Kozlov and the fans picked up the chant again. Christian used his speed to avoid Kozlov early on. Kozlov staggered backwards after taking a slap, then he slowly walked over to Jackson for him to get a piece. Dreamer said he wanted in, so Dreamer entered. Regal just kept on smiling. Zeke ran over Dreamer early, but Dreamer lured him into a trap to fall to the apron. Christian quickly tagged in, then wanted a plancha on the outside, but Jackson caught him mid-air. No problem. Dreamer splashed Christian onto Jackson to knock everyone down. Christian and Dreamer then stood tall going to break. Nice opening.

Back from break, Dreamer was in control working over Zeke. Jackson then smacked Dreamer in the face and sold shock having to take so much offense from Dreamer. Kozlov and Jackson then began exchanging tags working over Dreamer. At 9:00, Kozlov took Dreamer up top, but Dreamer blocked and kicked Kozlov in the face. He followed with a clothesline from the second rope that generated a reaction from the crowd. Christian then hot-tagged in and went wild on Kozlov, who stood his ground like a brick wall. Christian even tried a missile dropkick from the second rope. He needed to go all the way up to the top rope to finally get Kozlov off his feet with a dropkick. Christian then fought out of the heel corner before Kozlov dropped him with a hard headbutt to the chest for a close nearfall.

Heels began working over Christian at the top of the hour. Love the reaction from Regal just turning his head and slyly watching Jackson stretch Christian with a modified Camel clutch. Regal could teach a class on facial expressions. Heels continued to work on Christian, who elbowed out of a submission before taking a Scott Hall fallaway slam from Kozlov for a two count. Jackson back in. Regal tried to ignore the "Let's go Christian" chants from the outside by staring a hole into Christian's soul. Announcers told the audience not to be fooled by the witticisms of Christian calling his opponents life partners because inside the soul of the man is a cagefighter. Christian showed his UFC skill escaping Jackson before making a tag to Dreamer.

Dreamer blasted Jackson with a running knee smash before stalking him for a running bulldog. Dreamer lost control, but then countered a lift-up slam into a fallaway neckbreaker. Dreamer then went up top and hit a frog splash that made time stand still. Kozlov broke up a pin, then Christian took him through the ropes to the floor. Regal distracted Dreamer just enough during the chaos to take Dreamer's eye off the ball, then Jackson blasted Dreamer with his uranage finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Jackson & Kozlov in 16:00. Good tag match leading to the PPV. Kozlov and Jackson have a certain "it" factor to their tag team that makes them work well. Perhaps part of that is standing next to William Regal, who is just so great telling a story with his facial expressions. Dreamer was solid in the match and Christian looked like a star, as he should as the brand's champion. Regal stood going into the PPV, so Even Steven booking says Christian picks up another win on Sunday. Strong overall conclusion to a strong show. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 12 2009, 07:48 am
TNA Impact! Results: 9-10-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1007785.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The British Invasion defeated Team 3D, Beer Money, Scott Steiner and Booker T in a non-title gauntlet match. The match was joined in progress to start the show. Apparently, the wrestlers came out in intervals, as Booker T and James Storm hadn't come out yet. The announcers noted that a pinfall couldn't be made until all eight men were in the ring.

Booker came out about 90 seconds into the match. Storm eventually was the last man out. He wore a football helmet with beer bottles on it. A shot aired of Kurt Angle watching the match intently on a backstage monitor. Late in the match, Team 3D hit their finisher on Steiner. Booker broke up Devon's pin attempt, but Brutus Magnus covered Steiner and scored the win. Angle was shocked by the finish backstage because the Main Event Mafia and World Elite had been on good terms...

Powell's POV: An interesting way to open the show. The gauntlet stipulation felt a little pointless, though, since they could have just done a four-way match and joined it in progress. They wanted to get the show off to a hot start by joining the match in progress, but for the first time in the history of TNA the announcers were too subdued.

2. Taylor Wilde and Sarita defeated Alissa Flash and Daffney in 5:00 in a tag team tournament match. There was a red tarp covering something at ringside. The announcers pointed it out, but said they didn't know what was underneath. After some solid back and forth action, Sarita pinned Flash...

Powell's POV: Taylor and Sarita will face Awesome Kong and Raisha Saeed in the next round. It would have been really interesting to see Flash and Daffney advance since Flash also plays the Saeed character. They could be building up a heel of a rivalry between Flash and Sarita, but Sarita gets all the wins in their matches. Too bad. The fans seem to dig Flash more than Sarita at this point.

3. D'Angelo Dinero pinned Jay Lethal in 5:20. The Guns didn't last long on commentary, as Tenay and Taz quickly took over. Lethal had some offense, but Dinero hit the DDE (D'Angelo Dinero Express) for the clean pin...

Powell's POV: The DDE is the move formerly known as the Elijah Express in WWE.

4. Velvet Sky and Angelina Love defeated Roxxi and Madison Rayne. The Guns were on commentary again. Sabin said he's happy he brought the tissue box because he usually needs it when the Beautiful People are finished with their entrance. They joked about how inappropriate it is. Taz said the Guns are like "Madden and Michaels." Funny all around.

Tenay ran through Roxxi's history and recalled when she had her head shaved. Taz said she has a butcher boy haircut. Late in the match, Roxxi hit the Voodoo Drop for a good near fall. However, Love came back and pinned Rayne while holding the tights. The digitized Rayne's *** while it was exposed. Damn modern technology...

Powell's POV: I have a soft spot for Roxxi because she agreed to shave her head despite the fact that she was a cute girl with long hair. Unfortunately, her look in this match left something to be desired and it has nothing to do with her hair. The outfit she wore just looked minor league. She can and has done better. That said, she has some impressive offense. By the way, TNA should replay the match finishes. I don't think they've replayed one yet tonight.

5. Abyss pinned Dr. Stevie in 1:30. Abyss came out to start the match only to be attacked from behind by Stevie. Abyss came back and hit the Black Hole Slam for the win. After the match, Nash came out and attacked Abyss from behind. Stevie and Nash doubled up on Abyss until Foley ran in for the save...

6. Cody Deaner defeated Tara in 2:45. One of the Guns said Deaner has a child molester mustache. Totally inappropriate, but so damn funny. Deaner came out wearing headgear, Zubaz, and had duct tape covering his gloves. After Tara roughed up Deaner, Kong came out and attacked her from behind. The ref turned around to see Tara knocked out, so he gave the win to Deaner... 

Powell's POV: They actually had Tara cover the Tapout logo that was all over her gear. This was horrible. As if Deaner didn't look low budget and silly enough, Tara looked silly with the logo taped over. By the way, what happened to the referees being empowered and not tolerating outside interference? Oh, wait, this was an MMA match, so I guess it's different. Whatever. I'm so happy I watched football tonight.

7. A.J. Styles and Daniels beat Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe (w/Matt Morgan) in 6:40. Late in the match, Morgan stood up at ringside and held up his chair for Angle. Kurt tried to run Styles into the chair, but Styles reversed it and ran Angle into the chair and then pinned him.

After the match, Morgan entered the ring and acted like he didn't know what happened. Kurt slapped him. Morgan snapped and hit Angle with the Hellevator...

Before we could digest the payoff they've been building up to for weeks, they went backstage to give us more Eric Young. He was ordering the rest of the World Elite to bring Homicide to the ring. He said the blood would be on Hernandez's hands...

Powell's POV: Make it stop! I can't believe they would jump so abruptly from the big angle with Morgan and Angle to more of the World Elite.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 12 2009, 12:26 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35242.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- FINLAY vs. MIKE KNOX- BELFAST BRAWL

Knox did another inset interview. This week: A lizard sheds its tail when escaping a foe. But Knox doesn’t want the tail; he wants it all. JR called the rules “an Irish version of a street-fight.” Finlay got the advantage to start, but walked into a powerslam from Knox. Knox dropped three elbows onto the sternum of Finlay, then wanted to go under the ring for a weapon. Finlay stopped him with a baseball slide, but then went head-first into the announce table. Knox got a chair, but he couldn’t use it before Finlay got it away from him. Back in the ring, Knox kicked the chair right into Finlay’s face. About 1:30 into the match, they went to break with Knox having the upper hand.

Knox, still in control upon return, dropped Finlay in a sidewalk slam across a steel chair. Finlay was thrown to ringside and Knox got a garbage can, actually three, and tossed them each one at a time at Finlay. Bicycle kick sent Finlay onto the other side of the barricade. But as Knox went to get Finlay, Finlay sent him back over. Then Finlay was caught by Knox and was slammed into the barricade himself. Trash can lid to the gourd of Finlay. More work with the trash can from Knox. Knox went under the ring again and this time retrieved a table, which received a huge pop and a “we want tables” chant. Knox went off the ropes and appeared to want to hit a cross-body, but Finlay bopped him with the shillaleigh. In any event, Knox still landed on Finlay. After Finlay recovered, he pinned Knox.

WINNER: Finlay, at 9:39. Every time it looks like they’re going to push Knox, they seem to just stop short. This would’ve been a good win for him to climb the ladder. Finlay didn’t really need this.

2- CHRIS JERICHO & THE BIG SHOW vs. CRYME TYME

JTG and Jericho started out the match as the legal men. Jericho looked ready for Sunday, very aggressive to begin things. Too aggressive though, as he missed a corner charge and was inside cradled for two. Dropkick by JTG, then he clotheslined Jericho over the top and to ringside. Jericho began to lose his cool, ripping the cover off the announce desk in anger. They went to break again shy of 2:00.

The standard “back from break” ensued, then JTG took over until he took his eye off Jericho, only to get socked in the face. That allowed Jericho to make the tag to Big Show. Show went for a back-drop, but JTG just jumped over him and tagged in Shad Gaspard. Shad went after Show, then knocked Jericho off the apron. He went off the top, but Show chopped him out of mid-air. Once the heels were back in control, Jericho came in and did some more of the dirty work. But Shad got a big boot and the fans were behind him to make the hot tag. Was he really worn down that much already that he had to try to crawl to his corner, and not even make it there? Anyway, Show made the tag instead and sat in a reverse chin-lock with Shad. Another quick tag in to Jericho, who tried to fight off Shad, but Gaspard landed a powerslam. JTG tagged in and quickened the pace. Show was taken out of the equation via a low bridge, then Shad knocked him down on the outside. JTG tried a corner move, but Jericho rolled him up, using the ropes for leverage for two. Walls of Jericho attempt, but JTG rolled him up for two. JTG skinned the cat back in the ring, but as he was on the upswing, Show walked by and hammered him with a right hand.

WINNERS: Jericho and Show, at 12:02. Good showing from CT here in the loss.

3- CHARLIE HAAS vs. JOHN MORRISON

Haas got no entrance. Morrison got Haas in a back-breaker, then a Russian leg-sweep. Haas came back to work the arm of Morrison. Some unique moves to do so, as well. He laid across Morrison’s back, stretching his arm the way it isn’t supposed to be stretched. He then went to the more widely-known move, the arm-bar (Jericho move #742). Dropsault from Morrison led his comeback against Haas. Standing Shooting-Star Press got two. Morrison was then sent shoulder-first into the ring-post, then a DDT with the arm barred for two. Haas tried a high-risk move, but Morrison kicked him off the top rope, which allowed Morrison to land Starship Pain.

WINNER: Morrison, at 3:22. Just an enhancement match for Morrison, and a chance for the announcers to talk about the great match he had last week with Rey Mysterio.

4- MELINA vs. LAYLA

Shoulderblcok by Layla, then a face-plant that looked like it was going to be a back-drop. Melina tried to do the ten-punches in the corner, but Layla pushed her off and to the mat. McCool was at ringside with Layla, for what its worth. Layla with a modified surfboard, then Layla got a cover for two. Small package for two by Melina. Melina with some rights, then a corner attack. Double-knees to the gut in the corner by Melina, then another face-plant. That was for two. Melina with a drop-toe hold on Layla into the middle rope, but Layla moved on a Melina dive, sending Melina to ringside. McCool hit Melina with one of her crutches and Layla pinned her.

WINNER: Layla, at 3:03.

5- C.M. PUNK vs. MATT HARDY- SUBMISSION MATCH

Match began after Hardy made his entrance. The two men fought for control and Hardy appeared to get it, taking Punk off his feet with a right hand. Neck-breaker followed that up. And another. One more, for good measure. Hardy locked in a double underhook, then wrapped his legs around Punk’s waist in the first submission attempt of the match. Punk walked over to the corner and rammed Hardy into the turnbuckle. Kick to the stomach by Punk, then he went to springboard off the top, but Hardy knocked his feet out from under him. Hardy began to then work on the left leg of Punk. Hardy attempted a Twist of Fate, but Punk instead threw Hardy shoulder-first into the ring post, then again. They went to break 3:30 into the main event.

Punk continued his abuse of Hardy, putting his knee in the back of Hardy’s neck, the driving him to the mat from the middle rope. Some guys were actually chanting for Punk. Punk pummeled the back of Hardy’s head with right hands. Suplex by Punk, followed up by two legdrops. Head-scissors by Punk was next to wear down Matt. Hardy attempted a comeback, but was put down with an enziguiri. Punk hobbled over to give Hardy a high knee, but then was brought out of the corner with a knee-buster. Hardy then applied a figure-four, much to the delight of the crowd. Punk looked like he was coming close to tapping out, but instead, he turned over the move. He grabbed the rope, which caused a break. Clothesline in the corner by Hardy, then a bulldog out of it. Side Effect found the mark. No Twist of Fate though- Hardy blocked a GTS and Matt cinched in a half-crab. He really torqued the left leg. Punk got the rope and Hardy seemed to be in no hurry to break. Punk came back with a roundhouse kick. He then locked in the Anaconda Vice for the tap-out victory.

WINNER: Punk, at 13:41. About what you’d expect from these two. Couldn’t go all-out because of the stipulation and the match this Sunday.

Taker’s bell tolled after the match. The lights went out and when they came on, the belt that Punk was holding was no longer in his hands. On the ramp, Taker had said belt and was raising it over his head as Punk’s ire was being raised in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 14 2009, 01:20 pm
WWE Breaking Point PPV Results: 9-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_35277.shtml)

1 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. MVP & MARK HENRY -- Unified tag title match
WINNERS: Show & Jericho at 12:15. Okay tag match. Slow at times, some good spots sprinkled throughout, but not a memorable match. Crowd was interested throughout, which helped. (*1/2)

2 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ -- U.S. Title match
WINNER: Kofi at 11:58 to retain the U.S. Title. Good finish after a slow start to warm up the crowd. Credit both wrestlers for pushing through the slow parts early on to slowly build to a nice finish. Emphasis was on Miz scoring nearfall after nearfall to retain credibility before being booked to lose the match. Kofi continues to look good as U.S. champion. (**1/2)

3 -- DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. LEGACY (TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES) -- Submissions Count Anywhere in Montreal
WINNERS: Cody & Ted at 21:40. Excellent brawl that WWE doesn't do very often, which made this match stand out. (Whereas TNA does this every month, so it feels like a repeat of the same formula match.) Legacy sold a ton early on, but weathered the storm like at Summerslam, but picked up the big victory here. Nice piece of business to elevate Legacy with a meaningful, "clean" major PPV victory over DX. What's interesting will be the follow-up on how they continue to make Legacy stars and where Michaels/Hunter go from here in the storylines. Well done. (****)

4 -- KANE vs. GREAT KHALI -- Singapore cane match
WINNER: Kane at 5:55. Six long minutes ending with Kane going over Khali, who apparently isn't being looked at to be a strong attraction act right now. Doubt this is the end of the feud, unfortunately. (1/2*)

5 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- ECW Title match
WINNER: Christian at 10:15 to retain the ECW Title. Very good PPV undercard match. Nice pace, good action (other than the dangerous Regalplex spot), and Christian picked up a clean victory. Good to see that. Would be time for a new challenger, but I get the feeling this is continuing. (***1/4)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match -- I Quit match
WINNER: Cena at 19:45 to win the WWE Title. Crazy match. Hard to rate this, but it had all of classic Cena-Orton elements with Orton being one the best crazy stalker heel characters in recent memory, Cena showing the grit and determination, and a memorable finish. Orton was so good as the crazy heel that he didn't lose much despite dropping the title. Looks like Cena-Orton re-match in Hell in a Cell to hopefully end this feud, although they continue to deliver very good PPV battles. Frustrating to see the same storylines on TV, but they continue to deliver on PPV. (****)

7 -- WWE World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER -- World Hvt. Title match -- Submissions match
WINNER: Taker at 8:20 to capture the World Hvt. Title.

Post-match: Suddenly, Teddy Long's music hit. Long came out on stage and said he regrets to inform everyone that Taker's Hell's Gate submission hold was banned from Smackdown a long time ago by Vickie Guerrero. Unfortunately, that provision still stands. Long said the match must continue. Okay...

7b -- WWE World Hvt. champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER -- World Hvt. Title match -- Submissions match
They re-stared the match and C.M. Punk snuck up behind Taker to attack him. Punk then slapped on the Anaconda Vice and the referee Scott Armstrong immediately called for the bell. There was no tap out. Ref Hebner called for the bell, Shawn Michaels then took the World Title, and Bret Hart was left in the ring asking "What the f--- is going on?" Long just stood on stage with no reaction as Punk held the World Title in the air. Perhaps the storyline is that Long decided to screw Taker because he was strong-armed into giving Taker a title shot without any merit. Punk jumped up and down with the belt as Taker stood in the ring in disbelief. Ross emphasized that Taker did not tap out after they replayed the finish. PPV closed with Taker staring up at Long in disbelief.
WINNER: C.M. Punk at 0:25 (8:55 overall) in the re-start to retain the World Hvt. Title. Well, that was a pretty silly finish. It was obvious they had no way of booking a clean finish to this match going into the PPV, so the question was how they would screw Taker and keep the belt on Taker. A knock-off version of the Survivor Series '97 was pretty weak. We'll see how they follow-up after the numerous weeks of Vince McMahon getting in Long's ear to do something big with the Smackdown brand. Match was too short for a PPV main event. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 15 2009, 01:27 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35310.shtml")

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON & PRIMO COLON vs. THE MIZ & JACK SWAGGER
WINNERS: Miz & Swagger at 2:58. Too short of a match to really give these four enough focus. Hopefully there's more on the show, as it's merited based on the lack of TV time and Miz stealing the belt. (*)

2 -- GAIL KIM vs. ALICIA FOX -- #1 contender match to Divas Title
WINNER: Alicia at 3:10 to become #1 contender. WWE obviously has faith in Alicia to be in the mix of top female wrestlers on the Raw brand. Or, they just want to incorporate someone new into the mix to challenge Mickie for the title in a short-term feud. Gail continues to just be a bit player in the division. (*)

3 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. (w/Cody Rhodes) vs. SHAWN MICHAELS (w/Triple H)
WINNER: Shawn Michaels via DQ at 9:03. Very good TV match-up leading to a hot post-match angle to keep the feud going. Announcers really emphasized Legacy's victory at the PPV and Michael Cole deserves some props for the history reference with Michaels's eye. Good feud going right now. (**1/2)

4 -- CHAVO GUERRERO & CARLITO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. EVAN BOURNE & HORNSWOGGLE
WINNERS: Bourne & Hornswoggle at 3:58. Lawler said it best. Let's move on from the coyote chasing the roadrunner. The coyote never wins. (1/2*)

5 -- MVP & TRISH STRATUS vs. Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO & BETH PHOENIX
WINNERS: Trish & MVP at 1:30. To the follow-up... (n/a)
Post-match: Trish took the mic and said this is her town and her show. It ain't ending like this. She booked a six-person tag match for right now. That was a much better promo than the three minutes earlier in the show when she seemed to be a little off.

5b -- MVP & MARK HENRY & TRISH STRATUS vs. Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW & BETH PHOENIX
WINNERS: Trish & MVP & Henry at 5:03. Good, high-energy six-person TV tag match. Crowd was into the non-stop action which continued the Jericho & Show vs. Henry & MVP feud. They'll probably put it on PPV again to follow the pattern of Orton vs. Cena and DX vs. Legacy re-matches. (**)

6 -- BATISTA vs. RANDY ORTON -- No Holds Barred
WINNER: Batista at 5:01. Formula gimmick match between Batista and Orton. This week, Orton was back to that familiar position of not having much credibility being duped by Batista at the beginning and taking the loss in the main event. It's been a PPV-to-PPV see-saw with his character lately. When he gets too hot, WWE cools him down just a little bit to even things out. Now the question is where Batista fits in on the Smackdown brand. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 16 2009, 12:01 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 9-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRosenroll's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35322.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE DARK CITY FIGHT CLUB (KORY CHAVIS & JON DAVIS) vs. THE YOUNG BUCKS (MATT JACKSON & NICK JACKSON)

The announcers described this match-up as a battle of the DCFC's size and power versus the Young Bucks's speed and high-flying. The Bucks offered to shake hands but the DCFC refused, establishing the Bucks as the babyfaces.

Davis started the match against Nick Jackson and took control of the match with his power. At 2:00, with Chavis now in the ring for the DCFC, the Bucks gained the advantage when Nick tagged out to Matt and Matt landed a moonsault off the top rope. Chavis quickly regained control with a double clothesline that flattened both Young Bucks. The DCFC beat down Matt Jackson heel-style for a while, drawing a loud "Young Bucks" chant from the crowd.

At 5:30, Matt made a babyface comeback, dropped Davis with a great-looking chin breaker and then made the hot tag to Nick. At 6:00, the Bucks hit Davis with a devastating-looking springboard splash-moonsault combo for a near fall that Davis only kicked out of because Chavis broke up the pin. The action picked-up, with all four men involved, leading to the finish when Nick caught Chavis with a sunset flip off the top rope into a bridge pin.

WINNERS: The Young Bucks clean in 7:30. Solid tag match. The DCFC got the vast majority of the offence to keep the strong despite losing, which unfortunately limited the opportunity to showcase the Young Bucks's dazzling array of offensive maneuvers. The announcers played up the result as a big upset.

2 – BISON SMITH (w/Prince Nana & Dirty Ernie Osiris) vs. SAL RINAURO

Prazak said that Smith has torn up Puerto Rico and Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan. Smith tossed Rinaruo around with some power moves and could have easily pinned him at 0:30, but pulled him up after a two count to deliver more punishment. Smith threw Rinauro out of the ring and beat him up on the outside for a while, including a dive over the ringside barrier while Rinauro was in the front row of seats. Smith then tossed Rinauro back in the ring and pinned him easily.

WINNER: Smith clean in 2:00. Good squash to make Smith look like a monster.

3 - COLT "BOOM BOOM" CABANA vs. JOEY RYAN (w/Prince Nana & Dirty Ernie Osiris)

Cabana hit the ring on fire and sent Ryan to the floor. Ryan conferred with Nana, then got back into the ring only to have Cabana deploy his trademark European-influenced chain wrestling to wrestle circles around Ryan. At 2:30, Nana distracted Cabana, allowing Ryan to land a drop kick to take control of the make. Ryan spent the next couple of minutes working over Cabana's arm. While Cabana was selling Ryan's offense, Hogwood did a nice job talking up Cabana for the way he fought back from a three-to-one disadvantage to win the eight-man elimination match against The Embassy a couple of weeks ago. Ryan set up Cabana for his moustache ride finisher, only for Cabana to slip out of the move and quickly lock in his Billy Goat's curse submission hold, forcing Ryan to tap out.

WINNER: Cabana clean in 6:30. Solid match to continue Cabana's strong push lately. Unfortunately, Cabana's Billy Goat's curse submission looks like it would be easy to escape, which is not ideal for a finisher. Having Ryan lose clean on his debut does not suggest ROH has big plans for him. This may be for the best until either he or Austin Aries change their gimmick, because I do not think there is room in ROH for two sleazy, pink-wearing, moustached heels.

4 – THE BRISCOE BROTHERS (JAY & MARK) vs. KEVIN STEEN & EL GENERICO
 
Both teams got excellent crowd reactions. The crowd seemed more into this match than any ROH match I have seen on HDNet. This may be because the HDNet production crew has significantly improved the lighting and sound.

The match started with a couple of minutes of fast-paced back-and-forth action with lots of tags. The Briscoes took the first advantage at 2:30, but quickly lost the advantage when Mark could not get Steen up for a suplex and Steen reversed the move into a suplex of his own at 3:00. This set the tone for the match, as the two teams began trading the advantage back-and-forth. Each team got lots of double teams and trademark offence, while the pace stayed quick and the action stayed hard-hitting.

At 7:00, the match entered a new phase when Generico and Mark simultaneously dove to the outside onto Jay and Steen respectively. This took Jay and Steen out of the action for a little while. Meanwhile, Generico and Mark got back in the ring and started beating each other senseless. Both ended up flat on their backs being counted down by the referee, but both managed to beat the count and tag out to their partners at 8:30. Now it was Jay and Steen's turn to beat each other up.

Generico and Mark eventually recovered and got back involved. The Briscoes took the advantage at 10:30 when Jay hit Steen with a devastating Death Valley driver on the ring apron. This took Steen out of the action for a while, allowing the Briscoes to double team Generico. At 11:30, Steen recovered and interrupted a springboard doomsday device attempt by the Briscoes and neutralized Mark outside the ring, giving Steen and Generico a chance to double team Jay. Just as Steen and Generico were setting Jay up for their finisher, the American Wolves hit the ring and attacked Steen and Generico, causing the referee to throw the match out.

RESULT: No contest at 12:00. The action in this match was excellent from start to finish, and the fast pace was reminiscent of Dragon Gate-style wrestling. If it had not been for the lack of a finish, this match was on track to be at the same level as the excellent tag matches featured on last week's Dragon Gate pay-per-view.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 16 2009, 03:39 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 9-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35351.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE HURRICANE vs. WILLIAM REGAL (in a suit)

Action was joined in progress with Hurricane taking it to Regal in his suit sans dinner jacket. Regal then tossed Hurricane to the outside, but Hurricane ran back into the ring and chased Regal to the outside. Regal begged for help from the ECW announcers, but Hurricane smashed him into the announce table. Back in the ring, Regal came back with left hand strikes before Hurricane landed a high cross body block for a two count. Hurricane landed a neckbreaker, then went up top for a cross body for a two count. Regal then bailed to the outside to take an Orton powder, but Hurricane chased him down on the outside. Back in the ring, Regal surprised Hurricane with his big knee smash and made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Regal in 4:00. WWE definitely needed to get sympathy back on Hurricane in the post-match. Not very admirable for the babyface to fight the heel while the heel isn't dressed to compete, especially after the heel got his comeuppance at the PPV. Match was good and the crowd was into it. Hurricane has looked good in-ring since his return from injury. (*1/2)

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. ZACK RYDER

Nice start with some chain wrestling to build a methodical pace. Yoshi then took Ryder to the mat and rolled him around into a pin position for a two count. Ryder avoided a corner splash attempt, then stomped on Yoshi's back to begin working him over. Typical Zack Ryder match working the babyface over with mat holds and chinlocks four minutes in.

Yoshi got a knee up in the corner and nailed a roaring elbow smash. Striker loosely referenced the green trunks connection to Misawa after the roaring elbow, but didn't name Misawa by name. Yoshi made his full comeback and took Ryder to the corner for a top rope huracanrana. Crowd wanted a three, but Ryder kicked out. Moments later, Ryder hit a flying leg lariat that appeared to be the finish, but Yoshi kicked out. Yoshi then slipped out of a back drop and nailed a kick strike to the back of the head for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Yoshi in 7:00. Nice finish to a competitive match. You knew Ryder wasn't winning, though, when it looked like every other Ryder match where mid-way through he was settling into the trademark chinlocks and mat holds with the facial expressions. Yoshi looks pretty good right as an up-and-coming babyface. He should get some focus in the main event battle royal to reinforce the win. (**)

3 -- ECW Title #1 contender Battle Royal

Striker liked Sheamus as his darkhorse to win the match. That means he's not winning. Striker then changed his mind and went Zeke or Kozlov. Or, maybe Yoshi. Ryder is confident. "You just picked everyone," Mathews retorted. Basic battle royal opening with some one-on-one action in each of the four corners. Shelton then dumped Burchill out at 1:25 to make the first elimination. Action slowed to a crawl as men tried to dump other men out of the ring. Crowd broke the monotony with a brief "Goldust, Goldust" chant. Yoshi, Dreamer, and Shelton tried to dump Zeke out of the ring, but Zeke fought them off and went to work. Yoshi started screaming and grunting trying to make an elimination. No dice.

At 5:00, Shelton skinned the cat following an Ezekiel toss and safely returned to the ring. Reks randomly wound up on the apron, then Kozlov and Jackson had a mid-ring stare down taking us to break. Rough, turn-the-channel start to this one. But, it's building to a better finish.

Back from break, we were shown Reks getting eliminated by Kozlov. So, we're down to eight. And Yoshi was eliminated either during the break or right out of it. So much for Yoshi getting focus. WWE must have figured a singles match victory was enough for tonight. They teased a Goldust elimination at 11:30, but Goldust held on until Dreamer could make a fiery save. Crowd again with the "Goldust" chant. Striker referenced Jimmy Hart when talking about Ryder laying back trying to avoid everyone. Suddenly, Shelton exploded on Sheamus with a clothesline to eliminate him. Shelton and Dreamer then eliminated Jackson. Sheamus then yanked Shelton down to the ground and a brawl broke out on the floor. Not clear on whether Shelton was eliminated. Shelton didn't care and chased Sheamus to the back. Announcers confirmed Shelton is done.

At 13:45, they were down to four with Ryder, Dreamer, Goldust, and Kozlov. Crowd wanted Goldust, of course. Kozlov didn't like that and headbutted him in the gut. Goldust then came back on Ryder with an exploder clothesline. He tried to eliminate the Woo Woo Woo man, but Ryder held onto the top rope, only to pull the top rope down to send Goldust over the top rope to the floor. Crowd was hot for Goldust being eliminated. Goldy is over big time. Down to Kozlov, Ryder, and Dreamer. Dreamer then pulled the same trick Ryder used on Goldust by pulling down the top rope on Kozlov. Kozlov out. In the chaos, Ryder then snuck up behind Dreamer and immediately eliminated him to win the match and become new #1 contender. Mathews said they know Ryder is next. He celebrated post-match and did the title-around-the-waist motion to close the show.

WINNER: Ryder at 16:05 to become new #1 contender. Nice scramble finish and they got some new blood in the ECW Title picture. Christian vs. Ryder should be really good with WWE giving Ryder another run at Christian after their good TV singles match a few months ago. Battle royal was pretty weak early on, then picked up steam as Goldust remained in the picture. Goldust was the star, as he is really connecting with crowds lately. They need to continue finding a way to feature him weekly on TV. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2009, 03:20 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35422.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Canadian crowd hot for Santino, who continued to do the "aw shucks" routine on the huge cheers. Santino grabbed a headlock, but Masters shoved him to the mat. Masters hopped up trying to look tough to answer Masters. Santino comically tried to pick up Masters for a slam, but Masters blocked and dropped Santino on his back to begin an attack. Masters landed a long vertical suplex, then dropped a leg for a two count. Only works for Hogan. Santino tried to come back with a cross-body off the ropes, but Masters caught him in mid-air for a bear hug. Santino sold, but then Hulked himself up inside the bear hug. Looked very inappropriate with Santino's hands close to Masters's crotch trying to escape. Masters then cut him off, but Santino went into his full "You ah make me ah so mad" routine and fired off with left hands. Masters tried a clothesline, but Santino did an R-Truth and dropped down to one knee to duck and nail a clothesline. He called for the Masterlock, but Masters knew the combination to break his own hold. Masters then slapped on the Masterlock himself and Santino tried his best John Cena face to escape, but Masters tightened it and he faded out to give Masters the win.

WINNER: Masters in 5:00. Great entertainment-centric match. Masters was in fine form as the heel dashing the dreams of the crowd hoping to see the entertaining Santino score a win. Santino was so great creating entertaining TV while not taking too much away from Masters. Then again, Triple H did more damage in five seconds on Raw two weeks ago than anything Santino could have done being too comedic and not taking Masters serious. (*1/2)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. PAUL BURCHILL -- non-title match

Basic start between Christian and Burchill as Ryder gave a shout-out to his girlfriend back home in Long Island. Burchill slowly worked Christian over, then Christian made a comeback and went up top. Burchill had it scouted and started to run away, but Christian chased him down near the ropes and clotheslined him to the floor. Christian in control going to break.

Back from break, Burchill was in control as Ryder talked more trash about Christian. Burchill then took Christian up top and nailed a superplex. Christian came back with a Tornado DDT out of the corner, then stood on Burchill's neck Burchill was throat-first across the middle rope. Ryder said it was cheating. Would be appropriate for a Bryan Danielson "he has until five!" point from Striker. Christian then nailed a Reverse DDT at 12:00, but Burchill kicked out. Christian then went up top for a diving head butt, but Burchill rolled out of the way. Burchill tried to follow with a corner splash, but Christian blocked and nailed a D.J. Gabriel European Uppercut from the second rope. He followed right up with the Killswitch for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Christian in 12:00. Good, basic match to plant seeds for Christian vs. Ryder down the road. Burchill continues to be put in position to look better than he was a few months ago, even if he lost. (**)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. FINLAY

Nice start early on with a mat exchange that led to Finlay corkscrewing Ziggler into the mat. Ziggler then ran away to the ropes to hold off Finlay. Suddenly, he spotted that Finlay's shoelaces were untied. He demanded Finlay tie his boots, then Finlay bent down to tie, but Ziggler kicked him right in the head. Great heel move. Finlay, pissed, then chased Ziggler out of the ring. Ziggler ran over the guardrail to the front row and told Finlay to get back or he'd walk. They cut to break with Ziggler running away from Finlay. Ziggler is slowly perfecting his heel characteristics. Fun to watch his development.

Ziggler was back in the ring and in control back from break. Jim Ross and Todd Grisham picked up a discussion on the "conspiracy" ending to The Undertaker vs. Punk at Breaking Point. They plugged tomorrow night's show to find out some answers to the proceedings. Ziggler was in control working over Finlay with some more mat holds, which Ross said John Morrison is probably watching to scout their upcoming Intercontinental Title match. Ziggler's facial expressions and heel mannerisms are terrific. At this point in the match, he settled into a pattern of delivering a move, then slowly lowering his head and eyes to measure Finlay for another move. Very subtle, but it adds up over the course of a match.

At 10:00, Ziggler talked trash to Finlay and asked him what he's going to do about his attack. Finlay responded with a forearm, but Ziggler cut him off with a hard whip to the corner. Ziggler pounded him down in the corner with forearms, but Finlay came back with a kick strike and a hard clothesline. Suddenly, they bumped heads in the corner and collapsed to the mat. Looked worse the first time and two replays softened the blow. They came to their feet and ended up in the corner where Finlay keeps his shillelagh. Ref bent down to move the shillelagh (showing smarts for the first time in five years), which allowed Ziggler to rake the eyes behind the ref's back. Ziggler then nailed his Zig-Zag reverse bulldog drop for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Dolph Ziggler in 15:00. Really nice match. Nothing fancy or Morrison-Rey in the highspots department, but they told a good story and Ziggler walked away enhanced as a top heel act on the Smackdown brand. He's really sharpening all of the little "Randy Orton heel mannerisms" in his toolbox to make himself stand out. It's fun to watch a young star progress and really "get it" when it comes to character presentation and what the purpose of the match is. Well done. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2009, 03:34 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 9-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35421.shtml)

1) THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE vs. TARA & CHRISTY HEMME
Knockout Tag Team Champion Tournament
WINNERS: The Beautiful People in five minutes. That was a decent opener, though I'm a bit (pleasantly?) confused—I thought this tournament was designed to get Tara and Kong on opposite sides of a ring without giving away their "dream" match.

(2) "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. SUICIDE
WINNER: D'Angelo Dinero in five minutes. I still have no idea what this feud is about, but I'm not going to complain about it.

(3) BASHIR & KIYOSHI vs. HERNANDEZ
WINNER: Hernandez in two minutes. That was one of the best squashes I've seen in ages.
After the match Homicide runs down to the ring. Hernandez goes to cut him off, but EY comes behind him and whacks him with a chair. Well, they didn't really drag out the suspense regarding how EY would interact with Hernadnez. Homicide holds the Feast or Fired briefcase over Hernandez's throat, and EY pounds it with a chair.

(4) ALISSA FLASH vs. CODY DEANER
Lumber Jack Match
WINNER: Alissa Flash in a minute and a half.

(5) KEVIN NASH vs. MICK FOLEY
Legends' Championship Match
WINNER: Kevin Nash by DQ in five minutes. I was a bit suspicious when they said they were giving this match away.

(6) SCOTT STEINER & BRUTUS MAGNUS (w/DOUG WILLIAMS & BOOKER T) vs. BROTHER RAY & ROBERT ROODE (w/JAMES STORM & BROTHER RAY)
WINNERS: Magnus & Steiner in five minutes. That was a pretty good use of time.

(7) AWESOME KONG & RAESHA SAEED vs. SARITA & TAYLOR WILDE
WINNERS: Taylor Wilde & Sarita in, you guessed it, five minutes. I really don't know why they didn't make this match the final and give it 15 minutes.

(8) SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN
WINNER: A no-contest maybe in 3 minutes? Joe might have been disqualified.
After the match, Angle works over Morgan. Joe walks over, seemingly about to help, when Daniels runs down and jumps on him. Daniels and Joe fight to the back as referees separate Angle and Morgan.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2009, 02:53 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link from Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35454.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JOHN MORRISON vs. MIKE KNOX

Knox informed fans of “restless leg syndrome” this week. I think he made some sort of veiled threat to Morrison in there, but it was over my head. Knox was in control until a flip kick to the face by Morrison. Then another, similar kick followed. He low-bridged Knox, sending the big man to ringside. Morrison hit a springboard moonsault on Knox, landing on his feet in the end in a very smooth-looking move. They went to break about 1:30 into the match.

Knox had Morrison in a chin-lock out of break. Apparently, Knox had his way with Morrison during the break. Bicycle kick to the back of Morrison’s head for two. Knox settled into a back-breaker. Morrison turned an attempted back-breaker into a DDT. Morrison took out Knox’s knee with a low dropkick, then went upstairs with a kick to the face. A running knee to the chin followed. Standing shooting-star for two. Knox came back with a cross-body for a near-fall. It appeared he was going for the Knox-Out, when Morrison dodged it and hit Knox with a Flying Chuck Kick. Starship Pain for the win by Morrison.

WINNER: Morrison, at 7:55. I’m glad it was this competitive; I thought it’d be another Morrison vs. Haas match here.

2- MELINA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL

McCool limped to the ring with a big brace on her knee. McCool got into the ropes before Melina could get her hands on the Women’s Champion. Reverse kick to McCool, who took a rest on the outside. Melina came out after her, but McCool snuck in and caught Melina coming in. She slammed Melina’s head into the mat and used the hair judiciously. Kick to the short-rib area by McCool. JR noted that Michelle wasn’t favoring the knee nearly as much as she had earlier. Dragon sleeper applied by McCool. Knee to the face by McCool. A few fans started to audibly chant, “We Want Trish.” Melina avoided contact with McCool, which sent the heel to the outside where she grabbed her knee. McCool was worked over, then thrown back into the ring. Double-knee to the back by Melina with McCool’s throat hung over the middle rope. Michelle got the elbow up on a charge, but Melina Matrix’d her way out of a big boot- then took one right in the mush anyway. Michelle got Melina up for what appeared to be a Widow’s Peak, but Melina did her flip powerbomb from that angle for the win.

WINNER: Melina, at 4:18. No real complaints about this one.

3- CRYME TYME vs. THE HART DYNASTY

So is this feud going to go anywhere or what? David Hart Smith and Shad Gaspard squared off at the outset. Grisham compared Smith’s dancing skills to Elaine from Seinfeld. Gaspard with a flapjack after getting Smith up for a suplex. Some double-teaming led to JTG getting the advantage. Shad press slammed Kidd down to the mat. Crowd seemed a bit quieter than I would’ve expected for this match. They took a break 2:00 into the match.

The Harts were in control out of break, with David smashing some elbows into the Trapezius muscle of Shad. Kidd tagged in and was like a pitbull in there, aggressively attacking Shad. A Curt Hennig-like flip neck-breaker on the seated Shad by Smith, who tagged in and again grounded the bigger member of Cryme Tyme. Big boot allowed Shad to come back, but Smith grabbed on to the ankle of Gaspard, preventing him from crawling to his corner. Headlock applied by Kidd. Gaspard caught Kidd with a clothesline as Kidd came off the ropes, a clothesline Ross compared to Stan Hansen. JTG tagged in to some boos. He worked over Kidd. Roll-up with the tights by Kidd, but JTG reversed it for two. The ref tried to keep Natlya out of the ring, as did Eve Torres. Kidd came in with a blockbuster on JTG for the win, as the ref was too distracted by the ladies to notice Smith helping Kidd illegally.

WINNERS: Harts, at 11:54. Not a big fan of these one; I feel like I’ve seen it too many times.

4- THE GREAT KHALI vs. KANE

Khali took Kane into the corner with some forearms, then some boots. Big boot right to the face of Kane. Kane escaped the ring to avoid further damage. Khali chased him down (and I’m being generous saying that). He bounced Kane’s head off the announce table, but Kane got a chair and hit Khali with it for the DQ.

WINNER: Khali, by DQ, at :47.

Kane dragged the unconscious Khali over toward the ring steps. He put a leg on one of the steps, then smashed it several times with the top of the stairs. The fans were so silent you could hear Ranjin Singh yelling at Kane from the other side of the ring. The ref and Singh tended to Khali as Kane walked up the ramp, staring at his handiwork on the Titantron.

5- CHRIS JERICHO vs. BATISTA

Jericho slapped Batista in the face, which only angered the Animal. Batista caught a cross-body attempt and slammed Jericho down for a quick two-count. Jericho with a basement dropkick on the knees of Batista. Crowd was quiet here too, apparently not into Batista’s in-ring return to Smackdown. Jericho took Batista to the outside as Big Show looked on backstage on a monitor. Jericho slammed Batista into the announce table, then punched away at the skull of the big man. He wrapped Batista up in a submission hold on the mat. Batista got him up and on his back, and got him off by running backward into the turnbuckles. Jericho took over once again though with some hard (and loud) kicks. Not even much of a response for Jericho. Batista caught Jericho and slammed him down as he continued to hold his knee. More shoulders to the mid-section by Dave. Jericho put up a foot though on a charge, then landed a face-buster. He walked into a spinebuster to end his momentum. He got Jericho ready for a Batista Bomb, but Jericho got down and hit an enziguiri for a near-fall. Jericho went to the top rope, but jumped right into a clothesline. Batista continued to limp around the ring, trying to walk off an injury. Jericho dodged a spear and Jericho rolled him up for two, even using the ropes as leverage. Crowd started to wake up, chanting “Y2J.” Batista again set up for a Batista Bomb, but instead, Jericho locked in the Walls of Jericho. Batista was able to turn though and kick Jericho off. Codebreaker, but Batista caught him and Batista Bombed him. The pin was academic.

WINNER: Batista, at 6:26. Surprising lack of heat aside, this felt like a house show match.

As Batista celebrated, Josh Mathews went up to Big Show backstage and asked about what just happened. Show said if Batista wants to rumble with him next week, Batista’s luck will run out. They went back to Batista celebrating as the show faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 21 2009, 01:23 pm
TNA No Surrender PPV Results: 9-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_35493.shtml) To view in-ring results, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #9338 (http://"http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2818126&postcount=9338") and posts thereafter or TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blog (direct link to latest blog). (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/2875413.html)

1 -- TAYLOR WILDE & SARITA vs. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE) -- TNA Knockouts Tag Title match -- Tournament finals
WINNERS: Taylor & Sarita in 5:00 to capture the TNA Knockout Tag Titles. The right team won. BP aren't the same without Angelina. Taylor & Sarita feel like a more natural tag team for the Knockouts division. Felt like a necessary re-start taking it back to when Gail Kim was the top babyface in the division carrying the banner. (*1/2)

2 -- HERNANDEZ vs. ERIC YOUNG
WINNER: Hernandez in 0:45. Exactly what it was supposed to be. Hernandez dominant. (n/a)

3 -- TNA X Division champion SAMOA JOE vs. DANIELS -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Samoa Joe via submission in 15:00. Good TNA PPV match in 2009, but this would have been just an okay match in 2005 when the X Division was at its peak. That's not fair to Joe and Daniels, who have four more years of bumps and bruises on their bodies and have reached a smart point of being content with good matches to stretch their bodies as long as possible to provide for their families several more years. It wasn't worth trying to have a five-star match on the undercard of an "off-brand" TNA PPV. Of note, weird vibe to this crowd tonight. Very subdued and not the typical ra-ra crowd atmosphere. (***1/2)

4 -- SUICIDE vs. POPE D'ANGELO DINERO -- Falls Count Anywhere
WINNER: Dinero in 13:00. A silly gimmick match. Just didn't have the same vibe as WWE's Falls Count Anywhere presentation last Sunday. Crowd wasn't reacting to anything and the wrestlers had some awkward moments with some comedy mixed in. The Suicide gimmick just needs to go. It's old and played out. TNA got the most out of it with their marketing award, but it's time to move on. (*1/2)

5 -- ODB vs. CODY DEANER -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: ODB in 7:00 to win the Knockouts Title. Took TNA a month, but they finally put the belt on ODB. Above-average match with some good wrestling mixed with the expected gimmicks and attempts at comedy. (*3/4)

6 -- Legends champion KEVIN NASH vs. ABYSS -- Legends Title vs. $50,000 bounty
WINNER: Nash in 8:00. Just not a PPV-worthy segment on any level. Should have been kept in a throwaway segment on free TV. Actually, shouldn't have been on anyone's TV. Announcers were in business for themselves just doing a Mystery Science critique on the match and talking about whatever they wanted to do. There's a difference between "freedom" to call wrestling however you want to and just bringing absolutely nothing to the table. Don West is sorely missed. (n/a)

7 -- BEER MONEY vs. BRITISH INVASION vs. TEAM 3D vs. TNA tag team champions SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T -- LETHAL LOCKDOWN Match
WINNERS: Beer Money in 21:00. I can't review this match. I've seen this match 25 times too many and I'm just numb to the same tired, formula gimmick match TNA presents every single month. Plus, the direct chair shot to the head on Rob Terry just completely took me out of this. (n/a)

8 -- RHINO vs. BOBBY LASHLEY
WINNER: Lashley in 7:00. Basic mid-card PPV match. Lashley looked fine, but this wasn't memorable and came across like just another match despite being Lashley's first TNA PPV match. Would have had more juice if Lashley hadn't wrestled on free TV before this. (*1/4)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. A.J. STYLES vs. STING vs. MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: A.J. Styles in 15:00 to capture the TNA World Title. The only reason to order the replay of this PPV is for a historic moment of Styles winning the title belt. Match was good in spots, but there are only so many three-way or four-way sequences you can set up in a match like this without it becoming repetitive. Second biggest story was Hernandez finally losing that briefcase and being written off TNA storylines, apparently. Not sure what to make of that right now. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 22 2009, 02:49 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35532.shtml). Condensed to results because this place has a 10k limit on space DUMB RULE!!!

1 -- CODY RHODES (w/Ted DiBiase) vs. TRIPLE H (w/Shawn Michaels)
WINNER: Hunter via DQ at 9:10. Let's get it out of the way first. Chair shots near the head don't prove anyone's toughness in 2009; it proves stupidity. Anyways, this was very intense and a great segment to build to Legacy vs. DX. WWE is planting seeds to see those punk kids Legacy get theirs in the Cell in two weeks. Well done. (**1/2)

2 -- THE MIZ vs. EVAN BOURNE
WINNER: The Miz at 5:25. Really nice TV match. Miz's aggressive approach in the ring is serving him very well. His in-ring work built up a lot of sympathy for babyface Bourne and the crowd was very much into the action as a result. Miz, DiBiase, and Rhodes are on top of their games right now as mid-card heels on the verge of a breakthrough. (**1/4)

3 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. BETH PHOENIX -- non-title match
WINNER: Beth Phoenix at 1:01. Well, there's your probable Place Your Bets shortest match winner. Very curious booking of Mickie, but they're short on time tonight with three more matches to go and cut out the majority of this match-up. Alicia looked good as a viable threat to the belt. (n/a)

4 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER -- U.S. Title match
WINNER: No Announcement around 1:45 when the segment ended. So, Swagger has the belt at the end of this week. Looks like build-up is for a three-way at the PPV. (n/a)

5 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER -- Santino Marella special referee
WINNER: Cedric the Entertainer at 4:11. A waste of time. Sure, it'll get them on The Soup or whatever other entertainment show WWE wants to be on, but it continues to reinforce the idea to the general public that (a) Jay Leno can work an armbar on Hulk Hogan because it's just silly wrestling that doesn't require any athletic ability or training and (b) that WWE is low-brow, low-IQ entertainment. The fact that they gave this four minutes, but didn't have time to even announce a result for the U.S. Title match shows where their priorities are. (n/a)

6 -- RANDY ORTON & Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. WWE champion JOHN CENA & MARK HENRY & MVP
WINNERS: Team Orton at 8:15. Predictable (not wrong!), good finish to the match to put Cena in jeopardy going into next week. Continued the back-and-forth booking of Orton looking like an idiot and looking like a credible heel. This week, he looked pretty smart at the end of the day. Cena selling fear and acting like he's faced with a 10,000 foot jump with just a backpack just does not work at all on the same show he mocked all of those elements and mocked his feud against Randy Orton earlier in the show. WWE can't have it both ways with Cena trying to be Mr. Comedian at one point, then over-selling fear later in the show. Good outweighed the bad of bridging to the lead-in show next week, though, with the crowd super-hot for the match to convey to the home audience they were really into in the storyline. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 24 2009, 12:07 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 9-22-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1008000.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Yoshi Tatsu defeated Paul Burchill (with Katie Lea) in 6:28. Burchill bumped a lot early and Yoshi a couple of nearfalls. Burchill hit a Fisherman’s suplex from the top rope. Burchill hit a sick Samoan drop for a long two count. Striker made a comment about Yoshi’s popularity that seemed to have been taped after the original broadcast.

Yoshi hit a series of kicks, a rolling snapmare, and a top rope spinning heel kick for a two count. Both men fought each other back up to the top. Burchill pushed Yoshi off and hit a flying knee drop for a two count. Yoshi scored the win after his weak finisher kick...

Twill’s Two Cents: Nice follow up win for Yoshi, but there was not one mention of Yoshi beating Zack Ryder last week, so that was a dropping of the ball. Good match here with conflicting styles working well together.

2. Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov (with William Regal) defeated two jobbers in Zeke won the squash match with his version of the Rock Bottom. Kozlov hit his finisher after the match...
Twill’s Two Cents: This was an obvious way to get Zeke and Kozlov ready for an ECW Tag Team shot. Oh wait. They can be impressive, but are they really getting over when it counts?

3. Christian defeated Zack Ryder to retain the ECW Championship. Christian was having his way with Ryder on the floor, but Ryder rammed Christian into the post. In the ring, Christian was standing on the top, but Ryder ankle swept him heading into commercial...

Back from commercial, Ryder hit a huge backdrop for a two count. Christian finished a long Irish whip sequence with a standing dropkick. Ryder was able to lure Christian to the apron. He pushed him from the apron into the ring steps. Ryder locked in a leg scissors around the ribs of Christian in the center of the ring.

Ryder worked on the lower back and ribs of Christian. He locked in the leg scissors again. Ryder went to the top rope and mistimed his jump, allowing Christian to surprise Ryder with a flapjack. Christian scored a nearfall with a reverse DDT.

Christian tried a springboard sunset flip, but Ryder sat forward and nearly pinned him. Striker did a nice job saying “Shades of Wembley Stadium,” referring of course to Bret Hart vs. Davey Boy Smith. Ryder hit the leg lariat for a two and there were several good nearfalls late in the match. Christian hit the Killswitch to win the match...

William Regal’s music hit and he came out to the ring. Christian had a sick cut on his right ribcage. Regal called the previous match a farce and said the slate was wiped clean. He said he would be the next ECW Champion. Christian attacked him. Regal retreated to the back as Christian celebrated with the belt...

Twill’s Two Cents: I really enjoyed the match between Christian and Ryder and they really turned it up in the last few minutes. Although I am a William Regal fan, I was not happy with how they quickly threw Ryder aside after the loss to go right back to Christian vs. Regal. I hope Ryder has more to say about this next week and he is not done at the top of the ECW card.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 25 2009, 02:29 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35618.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. PRIMO COLON

Back-and-forth early on, then Masters blasted Carlito with a left-arm lariat. Nice piece of sound sweetening on the contact ala the Dallas Mavericks's American Airlines Center on free throws to enhance Masters's move. Masters then went to work on Primo with a methodical attack before airballing on a leg drop. Primo made his comeback, but Masters reversed a whip to the ropes and sent Primo crashing into the turnbuckles. Masters called for the Masterlock, but Carlito kicked him in the gut and landed a kneelift before landing a series of left arm lariats that led to a spinning elbow smash taking Masters off his feet. Primo followed with a missile dropkick for a two count only. They went to the finishing sequence where Masters attempted the Masterlock after blocking a cross body splash, but Carlito slipped into a victory roll for the quick pin and the win. Carlito was shocked he won the match post-match while Masters had his usual look of frustration losing yet another match.

WINNER: Primo in 6:00. Very nice finishing sequence. Fluid and told a good story of Masters being just a step slow compared to his faster opponents on WWE TV. Neither man seems to be going anywhere overall, but this was good. (**)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL (w/Kozlov and Ezekiel Jackson) vs. GOLDUST

Goldust started with the early advantage working Regal's left arm, then Regal went to work on Goldy's arm. Goldust made a comeback a minute later, then out of nowhere, Jackson interfered against Goldust and the ref caught it for a DQ.

Afterward, Regal sneered at Goldust and his henchmen laid him out. Regal then put Goldust in the Regal Stretch. Suddenly, ECW babyfaces stormed the ring including ECW champ Christian, Yoshi Tatsu, and Tommy Dreamer. After a brief battle, Goldust finally cleared the Roundtable out of the ring. Christian, Yoshi, Dreamer, and Goldust stood tall in the ring as Regal's group retreated on the floor.

WINNER: Goldust via DQ in 4:00. I liked this on all fronts. Regal vs. Goldust didn't need a finish here, as there's a program to be had on ECW TV that could be similar to Goldust vs. Sheamus. Also, it was good to see Yoshi included with the big kids to give him a little rub being in the same camera shot as the brand's champion. This was good. (*1/4)

3 -- Women's champion MICHELLE McCOOL & LAYLA vs. MELINA & MARIA

McCool and Melina picked up their feud to start, then Maria tagged in and was cheap-shotted from behind, leading to McCool and Layla working over Dolph's gal pal. Maria teased a hot tag, but then walked into a big boot to the jaw from McCool behind the ref's back. Layla then made the easy cover on Maria for the pin and the win. Afterward, McCool and Layla celebrated while Maria motioned she didn't want any of Melina's sympathy.

WINNERS: McCool & Layla in 3:00. Standard divas match. Storyline reinforcement was good, though. (*)

4 -- MATT HARDY vs. KANE

Kane was quickly in control as Grisham talked about Hardy's World Title/main event aspirations. No mentions of Jeff Hardy, who kind of has that "Jeff who?" label on WWE TV now. Plausible explanation is they don't want to draw attention to Jeff and take away from the remaining Hardy on the roster. Matt was in control going to the break.

Back from break, Kane was on the attack going to work on Matt with hard stomps and kicks. Hardy made a comeback at 10:00 and hit a top rope bulldog for a two count. Crowd interest escalating to its peak as the wrestlers are picking up the pace. Nice match developing here as Kane elbowed out of the side effect and tried a powerslam, but Hardy hit a DDT instead. The action moved to the corner where Hardy landed successive right hands, but Kane put up his fists to block. Kane then crotched Hardy across the top rope. Ref warned him. Kane then yanked him up in the air and back down across the top rope crotch-first a second time and the ref called for a DQ. That might be a first.

WINNER: Hardy via DQ in 12:00. Okay singles match. Kane is limited on what he can do in the ring, but he's still making a good living with his recognizable character and memorable traits that WWE has reinforced over the years. Hardy was fine, but he's still getting his bearings back in the ring. Unsatisfying end to the show after the acceptable DQ in the other top singles match of the show between Regal and Goldust. The DQ in the ECW match seemed to have a purpose, whereas this seemed like WWE trying to protect two wrestlers on the mid-card. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 25 2009, 02:48 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 9-24-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1008043.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Suicide defeated D'Angelo Dinero in a street fight. Suicide made his entrance on the stage only to be attacked from behind by Dinero. D'Angelo sold the pay-per-view match by coming out with his ribs taped. Suicide went right after the ribs by striking them with a kendo stick.

They fought inside the ring where weapons were scattered. Dinero picked up a cane and struck Suicide with it, then strutted while using the cane. Nice. They traded offense and used a variety of weapons, including a hockey stick, crutch, and trash cans. At 4:45, Suicide went for a springboard move, but Dinero ran, leapt off the chair, and speared Suicide in mid-air. Great move that scored a big pop. In the end, Suicide hit his finisher on a trash can and scored the clean pin...

Powell's POV: A good brawl. These two are working so hard, but the creative team never bothered to establish a purpose. They've hinted that there's a history between the two wrestlers, but they never bothered to tell the story. As such, the fans just sit back and cheer the moves more than one wrestler or another. Again, though, the wrestlers worked their asses off.

2. Rhino fought Brother Devon to a double countout in 1:15. Rhino was introduced first and ran to the ring, only to be attacked by Devon. Wait, didn't something similar happen before the last match? The two wrestlers rolled inside the ring briefly and then fought at ringside until the referee counted them out. Devon was busted open.

Security ran out to pull them apart. Brother Ray joined them. After security cleared out, Ray stood between both bloody wrestlers and asked why they were fighting given their history together. He continued to talk without a mic while the camera mics picked up his comments. Rhino and Devon shook hands. Ray said the feud was over. Suddenly, Rhino gored Ray and left him lying. "That SOB," Taz said. "You gotta be kidding me"...

Powell's POV: It's good to see Taz pick sides. It's a heated feud between some of his longtime colleagues, so he can help get Rhino over by expressing his frustration and anger over Rhino's actions.

3. Sarita and Taylor Wilde defeated Tara and ODB to retain the TNA Knockouts Tag Title in 3:45. Tenay and Taz reminded viewers to double check their onscreen guides to insure it was properly set to record the show. Two minutes into the match, Awesome Kong came to ringside. Tara went right after Kong and they fought their way to the back.

ODB fought off the champs for a bit, but they hit her with the springboard dropkick into the suplex move they used at the pay-per-view to beat her. Tara returned to the ring afterward. ODB shoved Tara and they bickered briefly until the show went to commercial...

Powell's POV: ODB had her title stolen by her boyfriend and she lost on the first show since she officially won the TNA Knockouts Title. Even Rey Mysterio is sitting at home saying, "Damn, that's a bad title reign." By the way, bonus points to Tenay for calling out Taz for making dated references. First, he mentioned Phil Espisito when hockey came up, and he referred to ODB's panties as bloomers in this match. Tenay asked if Civil War references were coming up next.

4. Samoa Joe defeated Homicide and Daniels in 6:10. Joe debuted a new look. It's like boxing shorts with a touch of gladiator. All three wrestlers went to ringside and Homicide asked a fan (Vince Russo) for a chair. The referee stopped Homicide from using it. Late in the match, Homicide hit a neckbreaker on Joe and then gloated. Joe stood up, suplexed Homicide, and applied the Kokina Clutch for the win...

Powell's POV: Wow, a Russo cameo. That's as much as I want to see of him on camera going forward. The presentation of this match was lousy. If you're going to give away title matches on television then you should at least hype them and make them seem meaningful. There's no reason this match couldn't have been a main event one week. Instead, it just came out of nowhere and they didn't even bother to give replays of the finish.

5. Hernandez and Matt Morgan defeated Kurt Angle and Eric Young in 2:25. Sheik Abdul Bashir sat in on commentary while Kiyoshi stood behind him. Bashir mentioned something about the Mexican who mows his lawn on commentary. Hernandez showed off his strength early by picking up Kurt and tossing him. In the end, Morgan hit the Carbon Footprint on Young and scored the pin while angle watched from ringside.

Daivari wasn't happy with Angle. The British Invasion came out and stood on the entrance ramp to block Angle's path. Booker T and Scott Steiner came out and stood on the stage. The Invasion split to allow Angle to walk by. He did the Mafia hand sign in their faces as he walked by...

Powell's POV: Fun, short match. The babyfaces were both over. The only question I have is if Angle is wrestling Morgan at the pay-per-view, then why was all the focus placed on the bickering between the Mafia and World Elite?

6. Bobby Lahsley beat Jethro Holliday in 1:25. Lashley dominated the match and finished off Holliday with a submission hold...

Powell's POV: Poor hype throughout the show for this match. I honestly forgot about it. It's just a shame that they can't find anything for Holliday in TNA. He's a talented guy who they just won't get behind. His only offense in this match was a boot to the face.

7. Scott Steiner and Booker T (w/Sharmell) defeated Mick Foley and Abyss to retain the TNA Tag Titles in 2:45. Foley brought the video tape to ringside and left it with the announcers. Tenay announced Nash vs. Stevie, and an X Division ladder match with the winner becoming No. 1 contender for next week.

The fans were behind Foley and Abyss. Foley tagged in and DDT'd Abyss, which received no reaction from the fans. The heels finished off Abyss for the win. After the match, Foley blamed Abyss for ruining the caricature. Foley slammed the videotape over his head. He continued to beat him down and talk to him over the mic at the same time.

Jeremy Borash came out and asked what Foley was doing. Foley clamed down and started to leave with Borash, but stopped and grabbed his barbwire baseball bat off the table. Foley returned to the ring and struck the already blood-soaked Abyss with the bat several times. Foley left the ring and said, "Now he's learned his lesson." Blood was pouring from Abyss's head as he cried out, "Why?" to close the show...

Powell's POV: I get that Foley is deranged and his character is big on the light comedy, but the whole caricature thing was just ridiculous. The fans didn't even know how to respond because they clearly like Foley more than Abyss at this point. I wish the roles were reversed and Foley was the babyface and Abyss was back in monster mode.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 26 2009, 01:57 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35647.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JOHN MORRISON & FINLAY vs. MIKE KNOX & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Big shoulder tackle from Finlay, as he was pretty much hitting anything that moved (save for his partner and referee John Cone- so I guess only two guys). Then Knox capitalized on the over-aggressiveness of the Irishman. Ziggler tagged in and applied a unique rear chin-lock. He settled in that move as they went to break 1:30 into the match.

This time, it was Knox with Finlay in the chin-lock. Those poor fans there live. Jaw-buster allowed Finlay to get out of it, but Knox clotheslined him back down. Good teamwork thus far from the heels. Like every tag match over five minutes in WWE in the last two years (at least), the heels worked to stop Finlay’s many attempts at a tag. Another chin-lock from Knox. JR once again talked about “buying stock” in Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler kept Finlay grounded, but took a risk in a splash in the corner that did not pay off. Ziggler and Finlay both made tags. Morrison flew around the ring and hit a hurricanrana on Knox. Leg lariat followed, then a standing shooting-star press for two. Bicycle kick by Knox out of the corner on the I.C. Champ. He knocked Finlay off the apron, but that allowed Morrison to recover and land the Flying Chuck kick, and the pin was broken up by Ziggler. Cross-body by Knox, but Morrison ducked and Knox landed on his partner. Finlay with the shillelagh shot, then Morrison hit his finisher on Knox for the win.

WINNERS: Morrison and Finlay, at 9:20. Way too formula. I still don’t get the booking of Finlay, a face, to constantly use a foreign object.

2- SLAM MASTER J vs. KANE

Saw this one coming a mile away. J started off with some dropkicks, then Kane followed with a corner clothesline and side slam. For those that didn’t hear on Superstars last night, Kane has yet to be pinned or submitted since coming over to Smackdown. And as I typed that, Kane finished off the former Jesse with a chokeslam.

WINNER: Kane, at :45.

3- THE BIG SHOW vs. BATISTA

Jericho walked to the ring with Show. Crowd chanted for Batista as soon as the bell rang. Show displayed his power by shrugging Batista off on a collar-and-elbow tie-up. He shoved him off harder this time, and Batista fell to the mat. Batista left his feet for a shoulderblock, but Batista himself ended up on the mat with little effect on Show. Hard slap to the chest by Show in the corner. He followed it up with one more in another corner. Jericho shouted some play-by-play at the fans from ringside. Batista’s right hands had little effect, but Show’s clothesline did. Shot to the ribs by Show. Batista again fired back with rights, and then dodged a big boot try by Show. Show ended up crotched on the top rope, and Batista shoved him to the floor. They went to break about 3:30 into the contest.

You could tell Jericho was worried out of break, because he had his jacket off. Apparently, he got involved during the break. Batista with a weak jaw-breaker to get out of a chin-lock, but then he jumped right into a bear-hug. It eventually got down to a rear waist-lock by Show. Leg-drop from an inverted DDT position by Show for a two-count. Another waist-lock. Batsita elbowed out of it and got his boots up on a corner charge. Show was able to slam him down though. To the middle rope for Show, but he missed the splash. Show also missed a running (and I use that term loosely) splash in the corner that Batista followed up with a spear. He tried a Batista Bomb, but really, who is he kidding? Show went for a chokeslam but couldn’t get it. Batista with a single-leg take-down, then an ankle-lock(!). Before Show could tap, Jericho interfered for the DQ.

WINNER: Batista, via DQ, at 11:02. Way too long for these two. But it was watchable. Batista ended up hooking the ankle-lock on Jericho, who tapped to the move.

4- JTG vs. DAVID HART SMITH

JTG came out firing, getting to Smith before he knew what hit him. Smith quickly re-grouped and was on offense. He really put the boots to his opponent in the ropes, then began to work the back. Smith lowered his shoulder into the gut of JTG. JTG fought his way out of the corner though and made his comeback. He got the crowd into it and hit a flying legdrop off the top, but Natalya put Smith’s leg on the bottom rope on the pin attempt. That brought Eve over for a brawl. Natalya found solace inside the ring while Tyson Kidd cheapshotted JTG. Back suplex variation from Smith for the win.

WINNER: Smith, at 2:49. This feud went from entertaining and interesting to very dull quite quickly. Seeing them in the ring together every week has watered things down.

5- C.M. PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER

They’ve really drawn this segment out. Punk’s entrance, videos, a commercial, Taker’s long entrance, and the match will likely start nearly 15 minutes after the match set-up began. Taker cornered Punk, and Punk could not escape the Dead Man’s grasp. Punk with some body shots in the corner, and numerous kicks to the legs of Taker. Taker just grabbed the champ by the throat and threw him out of the ring. 1:10 into the match, they went to the final break of the show.

Punk was in control out of break, with a side-headlock on Taker. Shoulder knock-down by Taker though, and he once again easily tossed Punk over the top and to the outside Punk ran away from Taker outside the ring, so JR could get his “nowhere to run in Hell in a Cell” comment in. Taker out-smarted Punk as the champ tried to catch Taker coming back into the ring. Couple elbow smashes by Taker, then he dropped his leg over the throat of Punk with C.M. draped over the apron. The fight continued on the outside until Taker finally (mercifully?) threw Punk back in. Taker worked over Punk’s left arm and decided to go Old School. But Punk had other ideas and he stopped Taker on the top rope. Punk tried a suplex off the top, to no avail, as Taker kept up with the punches and knocked the champ off. Punk tried again and this time the suplex was successful. Pin, after Punk recovered, got two. Punk locked in a head-scissors on Taker as Taker tried to push away the hands of Undertaker, trying to get himself out of the hold. He eventually did and got Punk in a choke for a possible chokeslam. But Punk struck the legs of Taker to break it. Taker laid in the punches and clotheslined Punk in the corner. Snake Eyes followed up by the big boot. Only a two count there. Another chokeslam attempt, but Punk kicked Taker right in the temple. But Taker surprised him with Hell’s Gate. Punk got his feet on the ropes and fled to ringside to grab his title belt. Taker sensed his opponent was intending to flee, so he went out to stop him. He threw the championship in the ring and went to powerbomb Taker on the announce table. Punk got down off of Taker’s shoulders and scurried into the ring to win by count-out.

WINNER: Punk, at 11:58. I’m not sure the purpose of this match. They couldn’t further build the feud without giving away a one-on-one match?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 29 2009, 11:21 am
Ring of Honor Results: 9-28-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article1008094.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Jerry Lynn and Tyler Black defeated Rhett Titus and Kenny King in 13:20. Nothing happened for a couple minutes. Black and King locked up resulting in some sort of a botch. Black finally hit an offensive move five minutes in with a nearfall off a quebrada.

King went on the offensive and proceeded to not do anything exciting. Lynn hit an inverted DDT for a nearfall, but was distracted by Titus. Titus tagged in and pelvic thrusted in Lynn's face. Mike Hogewood was disgusted on commentary. Lynn hit a sort of second rope springboard powerbomb and tagged in Black. Black dominated King with all four of his jumping moves.

Titus tagged in and was hit with an atomic drop, top rope elbow drop from Black, and then a doomsday-style leg drop. Black went for the buckle bomb on King, but he fought out. King and Titus tried their powerbomb/blockbuster combo, but Lynn kicked King in the head. The faces hit stereo dives.

Titus lowbridged Black to ringside while Lynn was on the top rope, allowing King to kick him in the head, and then Titus to get an awesome nearfall with a top rope codebreaker. Black returned, wiping out King with a springboard lariat, and Lynn hit the Cradle Piledriver on Titus for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: The early part of the match sucked. Flat out sucked. It picked up towards the end and became okay, but when a match doesn't get off to a good start, it's hard to really get into it. The crowd was firmly behind King and Titus the whole match, and considering that Philly is Black's "second hometown", that says a lot about how bland the two babyfaces are.

2. Sara Del Rey defeated Nikki Roxx in 3:30. Roxx is Roxxi from TNA. Del Rey hit a nice Capo kick early. Roxx went on offense and hit a nice looking overhead suplex. However, her offense was short lived, as Del Rey picked her up in the Royal Butterfly and dumped her on her head for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: Too short. Both of them can work and while this was fairly impressive in the three and a half minutes they were given, a seven minute match would have impressed more.

3. Sonjay Dutt defeated Alex "Sugarfoot" Payne. Flippy armdrag offense early with lots of dropdowns. Major X-Pac heat for Sugarfoot as he dropkicked Sonjay several times. Sonjay kicked him in the mouth and applied an STF, but Payne got to the ropes. Sonjay hit a stiff-looking springboard dropkick (seriously!) and applied a Camel Clutch for the tapout win.

Joe's Judgment: I never thought I'd say this, but Sonjay is awesome. He's making 2009 Delirious entertaining on his own. He may be a bland face, but he's an awesome dick heel. This match wasn't great, but Sonjay's mannerisms were brilliant. His promo was annoying in a heelish way, not in an annoying way.

4. Brent Albright defeated Claudio Castagnoli (w/Prince Nana, "Dirty" Ernie Osiris) in a Steel Cage match. Claudio tried to escape the cage about thirty seconds in... and then again fifteen seconds later. Strikes and lots of them carried the early portions. Albright tried to get out, but either Nana or Ernie Osiris slammed the door on his face.

Castagnoli slammed Albright's head into the steel cage several times. Albright bled from the forehead. Claudio tried the Alphamari Waterslide, but Albright reversed it into a small package for a nearfall. Albright made his big comeback, sending Claudio into the cage. Claudio bled as well. Albright tried slingshotting him into the cage, but Claudio landed on the second rope and tried a crossbody or something, but was caught in position for an Air Raid Crash.

Claudio avoided the Air Raid Crash and tried to climb out, but Albright caught him and German suplexed him into the ring. Both men made climbs for the exit. Albright gave Claudio an exploder from the top of the cage. Claudio gave him a low blow and called for a chair. He tried to stomp Albright's head in, but Albright moved and gave him a low blow in return, and then stomped his head in with the chair for the pinfall.

Joe's Judgment: Well that got better as it went on. A couple nice spots, but overall the match was just okay. A couple of nice spots, but no real story or anything of that sort. It was basically "hey, let's throw each other into the cage a few times, then suplexes, and finally chair stomps!" Overall the show felt like filler, what with all the filler in the two longest matches.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 29 2009, 02:25 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35699.shtml)

1 -- Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. MVP & MARK HENRY -- Unified tag title match
WINNERS: Big Show & Jericho at 18:18 to retain the Unified tag titles. Really sloppy first-half of the match before the commercial break. Very sluggish Henry-Show exchange during the second-half of the match before bringing in the faster-moving MVP and Jericho to set up a very nice finish after the long build-up to the finish. Jericho was off his game tonight until really selling those nearfalls by MVP. He's one of the best in the business at selling the all-important nearfall, like Kurt Angle in TNA. (**1/4)

2 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. ROSA MENDES (w/Alicia Fox)
WINNER: Mickie at 3:40. Fine build for Mickie vs. Alicia at the PPV. Got the point across with a decent match for Mickie to get a needed win back after being squashed by Beth last week. (*)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EVAN BOURNE
WINNER: Swagger at 3:01. Good set-up match for Swagger to look strong going into the PPV. Bourne had enough offense to look credible, but the problem remains the big picture where the audience continues to be told the mid-card isn't important in the grand scheme of things. (*3/4)

4 -- CHRIS MASTERS & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. SANTINO MARELLA & HORNSWOGGLE
WINNERS: Masters & Chavo at 2:19. Apparently Chavo was only in it for the chase. He didn't really want to go after Hornswoggle; he just wanted to chase him down and be able to say he had him in his grasp. That's all I have to explain this. (* for Santino comedy.)

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. RANDY ORTON & Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW -- gauntlet non-title match
5b -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW (w/Chris Jericho)
WINNER: No official announcement. Well, the work from Jericho and Show was pretty pointless since SuperCena just shook it all off. Orton didn't have much credibility as a heel here. Jericho and Show did all the work, then he wasted it all away in the match storyline. Cena stood tall to close the show to give viewers a happy note. WWE took the "we'll make them feel good about life and want to pay money to see Orton get even more of a beating on Sunday" route to sell the PPV main event along with a little involvement from the Cell as a selling point. We'll see if it works. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 01 2009, 01:07 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 9-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35728.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Bell sounded and Burchill immediately charged Shelton with knees to the stomach. He landed a rolling belly-to-back side suplex for a two count and couldn't put Shelton away leading to a commercial.

Burchill stretched Benjamin's abs with a submission hold, then landed another rolling belly-to-back suplex for another two count. Burchill tried another suplex, but Shelton flipped onto his feet and landed a neckbreaker center ring. Both men slowly recovered on the mat as the announcers talked about the possibility of a draw if neither men could reach their feet. Not often "draw" is mentioned on WWE TV. Seems a little too 'rasslin for WWE's marketing. With both en on their feet, Burchill took Shelton to the top turnbuckle, but Shelton elbowed him to the mat. Shelton recovered on the top rope and slowly made his way to his feet only to miss with a flip dive attempt. Burchill then dropped a knee and made a cover, but Shelton kicked out. Burchill then went back on the attack working Shelton's shoulder that Sheamus rammed into the ringpost. Burchill then yelled and screamed bouncing off the ropes to build momentum, but Shelton caught him with the Paydirt finisher. Shelton with the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton Benjamin in 11:00. Classic babyface storytelling to show Shelton overcoming tremendous odds and showing fighting spirit, grit, and all that to pull out an improbable victory. Only problem is the audience has been given eight different looks at Shelton turning heel, face, heel, face, and back again that the audience didn't quite buy into it. Hopefully it's the start of a decent babyface push. As for Burchill, well, at least he didn't run away from Shelton when he was down and out unlike Randy Orton, who was booked to look like an idiot last night on Raw. (*1/2)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & GOLDUST & TOMMY DREAMER & YOSHI TATSU vs. WILLIAM REGAL & EZEKIEL JACKSON & KOZLOV & ZACK RYDER

Dreamer and Ryder started things off. Dreamer landed a series of arm drags to over Ryder before Goldust came in. Goldust is a consistent fan favorite now after that program with Sheamus. Yoshi then tagged in and worked over Kozlov's shoulder. Jackson then tagged in and pounded Yoshi, but missed with an elbow drop and corner clothesline. Goldust back in to work on Jackson, who came back with a loud clothesline. Jackson doing a lot of yelling and screaming now. William Regal then tagged in and yelled. Kozlov was even heard yelling from the ring apron. Ryder tagged in, then Christian tagged in to pick up their title program last week.

Christian ran over Ryder with elbows then hit a rolling elbow from the second rope. Heels tried to get involved, but Christian ran them off, ran down Ryder, and hit a running clothesline for a two count. Dreamer tagged in and hit a double-team move on Ryder to keep the action going. Dreamer went to the second rope for a move, but Regal ran down the apron and distracted him, allowing Ryder to smash him off the turnbuckle to the mat. Regal then tagged in and worked on Dreamer as they cut to break. Lots of fast-paced action with quick in and out tags. Crowd is sitting on their hands a bit waiting for the finish, though.

Back from break, Dreamer was still being worked on by the heels. Christian eventually took a tag and was quickly met by offense from the heels. Regal cut him off, though, then Ryder worked over Christian. [Q5 -- over-run] More heel work on Christian, who avoided a corner splash by Kozlov and hit a dropkick from the second rope. Christian then hot-tagged in Yoshi, who landed kick strikes on Ryder. Yoshi and Ryder were a little off on a roaring elbow, but Ryder removed any thoughts with a big kick strike to the chest followed by a spinning heel kick from the top rope for a two count.

On cue, the action broke down with bodies flying everywhere. Babyfaces cleaned house on the floor while Regal made a legal tag for Ryder. Regal tried to sneak up behind Yoshi, but Yoshi blasted him with a big kick strike to the head and made the pin on Regal for the win. Yoshi and Friends celebrated the big victory while the Ruthless Roundtable comically dragged Regal away from ringside to close the show.

WINNERS: Team Yoshi in 14:00. Lots of emphasis behind Yoshi right now. I like it. Match was just okay for an eight-man tag. Crowd didn't really get into it until the chaos happened at the end. Until WWE convinces the audience that a pin could happen at any time during a match, that's going to be the case. It would take years to re-write that crowd mentality city by city, though. And ECW closes without a title match or any match for Sunday's PPV. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2009, 01:07 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-1-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35788.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD (w/D.H. Smith and Natalya) vs. SHAD GASPARD (w/JTG and Eve)

Tyson Kidd played a Brian Kendrick heel early on by backing away and demanding the ref create an even start to the match against the larger Shad. Ross: "an interesting array of individuals" ringside. Kidd tried to work Shad's leg early on in the match, but Shad sidestepped an attack and sent Kidd through the ropes to the outside. Shad then lost control on the floor and Kidd wrapped his leg around the ringpost to begin that leg attack he was looking for. Kidd even whipped out a Sharpshooter around the ringpost, which drew the attention of the interesting array ringside. They had a stand-off going to break.

Back from break, Kidd was working over the leg and knee after cutting down the Shadtree to the mat. "Ask him, ref!" Kidd demanded. "Ask him!!" he requested again. Kidd tried another leglock, but Shad flung him away through the ropes to the outside. Kidd re-entered and Shad clotheslined him on one good leg. JTG shouted encouragement to Shad as the fans chanted "USA." Shad made his full comeback encouraged by the patriotism and made a cover, but Kidd put his foot on the bottom rope for a break. Kidd then slingshot Shad throat-first across the top rope. He tried to follow with a springboard attack, but Shad blocked in mid-air with a throw-down STO for the pin and the win. Ross said Shad showed "a lot of character" fighting through the injury from Kidd.

WINNER: Shad in 11:00. Good, quality TV match to continue the regularly featured Smackdown tag feud. Announcers were able to get in plenty of plugs for the Smackdown 10-year show tomorrow night. (*3/4)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. TYLER REKS

Sheamus sold frustration early on when he couldn't get in any offense on Reks. Sheamus took a breather on the outside, then re-entered and blocked a corner move with a big kick to the sternum. Pale Sheamus began working over Reks's well-tanned abdomen. Striker interjected: "Sheamus is a most-unusual-looking athlete." He then gave us a Dr. Mike Knox explanation of Sheamus's body work on Reks as he worked him over on the mat. He's not a doctor, but he stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night. Sheamus continued to contort Reks's body, but missed with an elbow drop. Reks made his comeback and did a gyration leading to an elbow drop. I believe it's his Riding the Wave move. Crowd wasn't sure whether to react or not. Reks only scored a two count, though, and shortly walked into a big boot to the face from Sheamus for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus in 6:00. Okay singles match. Crowds just aren't connecting with Reks because WWE hasn't given them anything about the character to sink their teeth into. Reks has an okay look, but there has to be more WWE can market to the audience. (3/4*)

3 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ -- non-title match
 
Slow start as they felt each other out before Miz took an early advantage, only to lose control with an errant top rope double axehandle attempt. Kofi then went back on the attack and Miz bailed to the outside to take a breather with Kofi "rolling" as Cole said.

Back from break, Miz was on the offensive taking cheapshots as the ref admonished him for unacceptable behavior. Miz then rolled Kofi around the ring landing successive elbow drops to the knee. Like the Orton Stomp, but with elbows. Miz continued to work the knee. "Miz, off the ropes!" the ref shouted. They have him mic'ed pretty strongly like ref Paul Turner on ROH TV. Miz continued to work Kofi over as the crowd tried to rally him up.

Kofi tried to make a comeback at 11:00, but he was hobbled and Miz slapped on a Boston Crab. Kofi escaped to the ropes for a rope break, then Miz was admonished for not breaking. Kofi suddenly hopped up and smashed Miz with the Trouble in Paradise kick strike. "Whoo hoo!" Lawler said. Kofi then made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Jack Swagger interrupted Kofi's celebration by blasting him with strikes. Swagger then dropped Miz with his gutwrench powerbomb. Swagger picked up the U.S. Title belt and held it up for the audience to close the build-up for their three-way title match at the PPV.

WINNER: Kofi in 12:00. Good, solid, fundamentally-sound singles match to build up an undercard title match on the PPV. Not really much else to say about it. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2009, 01:40 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-1-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article1008160.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Amazing Red defeated Kiyoshi, Bashir, Black Machismo, and Consequences Creed in a ladder match for a future X Division Title shot in 3:57. Red worked alone against two tag teams and he was the first to climb the ladder. Backstage, Abyss beat the crap out of some extras looking for Foley.

Bashir and Machismo looked impressive. Machismo moved up the ladder but Red tipped it over. Red hit four amazing moves, one per opponent. He then finished off Creed by hitting a hurricarana on him, causing him to vomit. Seriously. Thankfully, they showed a replay of it. Red grabbed the contract for the win...

After the match, Red proved he wasn’t a good promo when JB interviewed him in the aisle. Machismo interrupted and said he was robbed. Chunks Creed got in between them and walked Lethal to the back...

Twill’s Two Cents: That was the Amazing Red show. He dominated the match and hit every impressive spot. Nice job by him and nice to see him looking impressive in the ring again. Hopefully he is not simply fed to Joe next week.

2. Kevin Nash defeated Dr. Stevie (with Daffney) in a non-title match in 2:52. Remember the Blue World Order? Stevie was Nash. It’s like they are looking in a mirror. Richards had the advantage early because of a Daffney distraction. Once Nash gained the advantage, he hit the Jackknife for the win. He covered Stevie with his foot...

Twill’s Two Cents: Nothing special about it really, but it was solid filler.

3. Christy Hemme defeated Traci Brooks in 1:54. So, they had to say “Models” and not “Playmates” because Traci was not a cover girl? Christy won the match with a rollup. Traci attacked her afterward...

4. ODB defeated Awesome Kong (with Raisha Saeed) to retain the TNA Knockout Championship in 2:50. Personally, it is ridiculous to me that this match was not advertised ahead of time. This is a big match between two huge female names in TNA history. Tara was very solid on the stick.

Kong rubbed ODB’s face in her armpit. She hit a bodyslam and legdrop for a two count. Raisha Saeed approached Tara and shoved her. Tara left the table and Kong grabbed her from the ring. Tara closelined Kong across the top rope. She fell backward and ODB school-girled her for the win...

After the match, Tara and ODB shoved each other. They started to fight a little bit but Kong came back into the ring. She hit Implant Busters on both Tara and Jason’s drinking buddy...

Twill’s Two Cents: I like the idea of a triple threat at BFG, since Tara vs. Kong doesn’t have the appeal it did a few months ago.

5. Kurt Angle vs. Hernandez ended in a double countout in 4:24. Hernandez hit a vertical suplex in which he held Angle up for literally about thirty seconds. Angle immediately fought back with a released German suplex. He followed up with a series of offensive maneuvers to the legs of Hernandez. Angle tried a high cross body, but Hernandez caught him, and hit a sit down powerbomb for a two count.

Hernandez scored a very convincing nearfall when it looked like he was trying a border toss, but he hit a dominator instead for a long two count. They fought to the floor and the referee counted to ten. The World Elite came out and beat up both guys. They took them backstage and the Mafia came to Angle’s aid. The security had to break up the brawl...

Twill’s Two Cents: Give credit to TNA for making the World Elite look strong as a unit (minus that ladder match). They should use this match to prove Hernandez can hang with Angle.

6. Matt Morgan defeated Eric Young by disqualification in 2:50. I love how Eric Young is billed as being “from Canada.” That would be like saying Rich Twilling is “from the United States.” Young was dominated until he raked Morgan’s eyes. On the floor, a “fan” dressed as Abyss hit Morgan with a chair. It was revealed to be Angle and the referee called for the bell...

Both factions ran out and brawled with each other...

Twill’s Two Cents: I hope the security staff is being paid overtime tonight. Shoot, they have been involved in more segments than Eric Young, and that is saying something. By the way, Angle foreshadowed this earlier in the show by staring down this fan on his way to the ring for his own match. By the way, that match didn’t do Young any favors.

7. Bobby Lashley and Team 3D defeated Rhino and The British Invasion (with Big Rob) in 6:06. Lashley dominated early, but then the heels focused their attack on Brother Devon. Taz was drinking beers with Storm, but he acted like he had already had an entire twelve pack.

Lashley received the hot tag and beat up all three opponents. His partners joined him with the “Wazzup” head butt. Team 3D cleared the ring as Lashley was left with one of the members of the British Invasion. He locked in a dragon sleeper type submission for the win. After the match, Lashley slapped hands with the ringside fans as everyone else drank.

As Lashley was walking back up the ramp, Samoa Joe attacked him from behind and locked in the rear naked choke. He did his best “Undertaker” eyes as the show went off the air...

Twill’s Two Cents: Not a big fan of the main event, but I love that Joe looked dominant going off the air. Very interested to see Joe next week and how they follow up with this.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2009, 01:51 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35816.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- BATISTA vs. KANE

Smackdown moment #64 from the newly-released Smackdown DVD aired during Batista’s entrance. It was from November 2005, Rey and Batista vs. MNM. Ugh, Kane? This isn’t much of a step up from Batista vs. Big Show last week. Big uppercut from Kane out of the corner. Back elbow put Batista on the mat again, but Kane missed an elbowdrop. Kane suplexed his way out of a side headlock. Kane seemed to be centering in on the surgically-repaired left arm of Batista. On an overhead wrist-lock, Batista simply shoved Kane over the top rope and to the outside. Kane seemed surprised at the strength displayed by Batista.

Kane was in control with an arm-bar out of break. Stereo big boots and both men went down. Batista was the one to get the advantage, with a flying shoulder tackle and a couple corner clotheslines. Kane came back and went to the top, coming down with a clothesline. He signaled that the chokeslam was next, but instead, Batista hit him with a spinebuster for two. He set up for the Batista Bomb, but Kane rammed him into the corner. Batista came down off the top and into a choke, but Batista countered. Kane went up to do the ten punches in the corner, but Batista powerbombed him out of the corner for the win.

WINNER: Batista, at 9:48. Unless I missed it, they didn’t really seem to hype this was Kane’s first pinfall loss on Smackdown, after talking it up the past two weeks. This was probably as good as it could be.

2- JOHN MORRISON & KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & THE MIZ

Kingston seemed pissed at Kofi’s entrance and slammed the headset down. I guess that’s it for his commentary. And for what it’s worth, Justin Roberts was handling ring announcing for Smackdown this week as well. Morrison took out Miz to start with a dropsault and clothesline over the top. Ziggler tried to come in illegally and was chased out by Kingston. Match went to break less than one minute in.

Kingston was having his way with Ziggler as Miz was getting frustrated at ringside. Swagger distracted Kofi, and Ziggler brought him down throat-first over the top rope. The southpaw Miz went to work on Kofi in th heel corner. He went to the top and came down with a double-axe handle (not seen much these days). Miz tried to do his catapult double-team move that he did with Morrison with Ziggler, but when Kofi came up, he punched Ziggler instead of the other way around. Ziggler ended up tagging Miz in and telling him to finish Kofi off. But instead, he missed a shoulder charge in the corner. Kingston and Miz both made tags, but Morrison got the best of the exchange. Standing shooting star press for two. Kofi went for the Flying Chuck, but he shoved Morrison, crotching him on the top, then hit the Zig Zag for the win.

WINNERS: Ziggler and Miz, at 8:44. Good match, thought the Zig Zag didn’t look good, and they didn’t really talk much (if at all) about Morrison and Miz being on opposite sides, but they had bigger things (the title matches) to get over in this match.

3- MELINA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL- LUMBERJACK MATCH FOR THE WOMEN’S TITLE

Eve Torres, Maria, Beth Phoenix, Alicia Fox, Rosa Mendes, Katie Lea, Jillian Hall, Layla, Natalya, Savannah (but no Courtney Taylor?), The Bellas and Kelly Kelly were the Lumberjacks. Probably stupid to ask this on a show where they celebrate the 10th anniversary, but would it kill them to have hyped this up, even during the show? McCool started with the advantage, but it didn’t last for long. Melina did a split on the apron to avoid a punch, but then Michelle kicked her out. Before she let the ladies get a hold of her, McCool went out and brought Melina back in. Melina came back and hit a flap-jack on Michelle that got a two-count. Rough-looking clothesline by Melina. Apparently Jillian got involved as Melina jumped on the outside onto Jillian and another girl. Everyone on the outside started brawling and while the ref tried to restore order, Beth Phoenix nailed Melina while she was on the top, allowing Michelle to hit he Faith Breaker for the win.

WINNER: McCool, at 2:30. Disappointing hype and match. Just felt unimportant in the grand scheme of things; why wouldn’t you save this for a show that had little content, and could therefore seem like a bigger deal?

4- SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H & JOHN CENA & THE UNDERTAKER vs. RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES & C.M. PUNK

Cena and Rhodes led things off, a match-up that we’ve seen on numerous Raw multi-man main event tags. Triple H punched Rhodes in the face, and Rhodes crawled to the corner to tag in his partner this Sunday. Hunter pummeled DiBiase in the corner, then brought HBK in to do some damage. It was all face team here in the first few minutes. Michaels extended a hand to tag Taker, but Taker paused to stare at Michaels, allowing DiBiase to take back over. Taker did tag in soon after, and the former Wrestlemania foes stared at each other in the ring as they went to break.

Taker was in there with Rhodes out of break. He then tagged out to Hunter. Long standing vertical suplex, but not as long as Matt Morgan’s last night on Impact. DX continued to pwn Legacy in this match and as I type that, a flurry of rights from Rhodes put Michaels on the mat. Randy Orton and C.M. Punk made their first appearances of the match, one right after the other. Michaels and Orton both ended up on the mat- Cody tagged in and an enziguiri by Michaels gave him some time to tag, and he did, to Cena. Cena had to fight off both Legacy members, and put both of them on his back for an Attitude Adjustment. But Rhodes got down and the two heels gave him the Sweet ‘n’ Sour, which is at the point they took the final break.

Back with Punk and Cena engaged in battle. Orton came in and seemed to have his way with Cena, ‘til Cena got him in the Atttiude Adjustment out of nowhere, but couldn’t connect, as Orton DDT’d him. DiBiase made his presence known as the legal man with a kick to a seated Cena’s head. But Cena got the better of him and both men made tags, to Punk and Hunter. Patented spinebuster by The Game. Taker tagged in, but Punk dove to tag Orton. Snake Eyes, ironically, to the Viper Orton. Back-breaker by Orton, but he got caught in Hell’s Gate, only briefly, as DiBiase broke it up. Everybody started brawling at that point, as Michaels superkicked DiBiase and Hunter Pedigreed him. Cena got Punk up for the Attitude Adjustment and tossed him onto Legacy at ringside. All four faces were in the ring with the lone heel, Orton. Taker, the legal man, Tombstoned Orton. Mike Chioda didn’t seem worried that all four of the men were still in the ring while he made his count.

WINNERS: Taker, Hunter, HBK and Cena, at 21:39. Roberts pulled a Lilian and announced Undertaker as the winner, as if it was a one-on-one match.

Confetti fell from the ceiling as all the faces celebrated with their music playing for about 30-45 second spurts, before it went to another face’s music. Naturally, it ended with Undertaker.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 05 2009, 01:47 pm
WWE Hell In A Cell PPV Results: 10-4-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWE/article1008195.shtml)

1. Undertaker defeated C.M. Punk to win the World Hvt. Championship in a Hell in a Cell match in 10:25.
Powell's POV: A strong match. It wasn't a classic HIAC match, but it was very good. No blood for those keeping track of that at home. They used the cell structure early on, but it was a basic match after that. I'm not a fan of the finish. Taker doesn't need the title belt and I'm worried they're going to damage Punk's push as much as they have Randy Orton's by having him lose the title so frequently.

2. John Morrison pinned Dolph Ziggler to retain the Intercontinental Title in 15:45.
Powell's POV: The match was solid and the near falls were fun, but they didn't win over the tough crowd. There were some "This is awesome" chants from a small group of fans, but the fans were in sit back and observe mode more than anything. They were attentive and got into the near falls, but WWE still has some work to do to get both wrestlers over. That said, they did have the unenviable task of following up an HIAC match.

3. Mickie James pinned Alicia Fox to retain the WWE Divas Championship in 5:25.
Powell's POV: I hate to say it, but this match belonged on Raw. However, it gave Cole a chance to tell us the Divas are smart, sexy, and powerful at least two times. Shut up with that already! The fans were flat for that one.

4. Chris Jericho and Big Show defeated Batista and Rey Mysterio to retain the Unified Tag Titles in 13:45.
Powell's POV: A very pleasant surprise. I expected the action to be good when Jericho and Mysterio were in, but Show and Batista definitely had their moments. Show and Mysterio had some really fun exchanges. Mysterio didn't get the returning star reaction because he wasn't away long enough. That said, the wrestlers had no trouble getting the fans into the match. This was the most enjoyable match of the night so far. Don't make the mistake of thinking Rey being pinned is a sign he's being punished. He was the obvious choice to lose the match for his team.
 
5. Randy Orton defeated John Cena in a Hell in a Cell match to win the WWE Championship in 21:25.
Powell's POV: Good work from both wrestlers, but this didn't feel like an intense HIAC battle. Something's missing. It's red and it used to sell a lot of magazines. Here's hoping they're saving it for the main event. I hate to be so bloodthirsty, but it really does enhance cage and HIAC matches.
 
6. Drew McIntyre defeated R-Truth in 4:40.
 
7. Kofi Kingston defeated The Miz and Jack Swagger in a Triple Threat match to retain the United States Championship in 7:55.
Powell's POV: Good, hard work. The fans cheered for the finish, but it's not like anyone was really over in this one. Perhaps the crowd is drained, but I can see why they wouldn't care about Swagger at this point. He's lost so much momentum on Raw.
 
8. Triple H and Shawn Michaels defeated Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase in a Hell in a Cell match in 18:05.
Powell's POV: This was not the match to close the show with. It just didn't deliver like the opening match did. The live crowd was not in celebration mode afterward. The story was predictable and the lack of blood was a major downer. I thought they would at least spend some time on top of the HIAC structure even though we saw that on Raw. Overall, the show had some fun moments, but the night ended on kind of a blah moment. All that violence and no blood.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 06 2009, 01:46 pm
WWE RAW Results: 10-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35872.shtml)

1- DIVAS BOWL- 16 DIVA TAG MATCH
WINNERS: The Faces, at 3:03. Inconsequential.

2- JACK SWAGGER vs. PRIMO
WINNER: Swagger, at 3:25. Well, at least it’s an angle for Swagger.

3- CHRIS MASTERS & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MARK HENRY & MVP
WINNERS: MVP & Henry, at 2:59. Ending came out of nowhere.
After the match, Masters had some unfriendly words with Chavo. Masters stuck his finger in Chavo’s face and Chavo returned the favor. Masters kicked Chavo in the gut and applied the Masterlock, but Hornswoggle made the save by biting Masters’ thigh. Chavo then came back and hit a DDT when Masters was distracted by the little man. Hornswoggle then jumped up and down doing the crotch chop at Chavo. Uh...OK.

4- KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ- UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
WINNER: Miz, at 10:44. Good match, especially when things started heating up late. Cole acknowledged that this was Miz’s first major singles title.
Miz got the mic after the match and told everyone they were looking at the new U.S. Champion. Because he’s The Miz and he’s awesome. Fans said “awful” when he paused there, in a nice touch.

5- CHRIS JERICHO & THE BIG SHOW vs. SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H
WINNERS: DX, at 18:28. Fine match. Cole proclaimed Raw “the greatest show in the history of cable television.”
The Steelers celebrated with DX as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 07 2009, 01:31 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 10-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35890.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- VLADIMIR KOZLOV & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TOMMY DREAMER & GOLDUST

Looks like it’s Lauren Mayhew handling the ring announcing this week. Goldust isn’t getting much love from the fans this week. After some brief offense by the faces, Kozlov slammed Dreamer in the heel corner and tagged Jackson. Tommy fought out and tagged Goldust. Knee-lift by the Bizarre One, followed up by some rights. Jackson charged at Goldust, but Goldy side-stepped him and Jackson went through the ropes and to the outside. Dreamer somersaulted onto him, then Goldust sent him shoulder-first into the ring post. As Goldust was getting back in the ring, he was distracted by Kozlov, allowing Jackson to knock him off the apron and back to ringside. Kozlov came in and headbutted Goldust in the chest, then belly-to-bellied him over. Front waist-lock applied by Vlad. Crowd got into things as Goldust broke free, then clapped for him again when Zeke had a double-underhook applied. Looked like Goldust went for a clothesline, but Zeke fell on him for a two-count. Goldy finally tagged Dreamer, who came off the top with a clothesline. Neck-breaker by Dreamer, but a pin was broken up by Kozlov. Goldust bulldogged him down, but Zeke caught Dreamer with a uranage for the pin.

WINNERS: Jackson and Kozlov, at 4:21. Wow, that was bad.

2- YOSHI TATSU vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Crowd immediately got behind the Japanese import. Regal was still tying his boots after the bell rang, clearly not ready yet for the fight. Tatsu attacked anyway and had to be restrained by the referee. Tatsu still got the better of the early exchanges, even when Regal was ready. Regal again wanted a time-out to adjust his gear. Regal blocked a suplex and went into a headlock. They didn’t seem to be on the same page, as a Russian leg-sweep by Regal went awry, with Regal ending up falling on top of Tatsu. Regal got taken to the outside, but Tatsu quickly brought him back in as they went to break.

Regal took his assault on Tatsu to ringside and began to stretch him back in the ring with a variety of submissions. Striker compared the battle to Hirohito vs. Chamberlain. Double-underhook suplex by Regal. Tatsu with a dragon-screw leg-whip that Regal was slow to sell. This is really devolving into ugliness, as Tatsu apparently hit a spinning elbow, but it just look like he barely ran into Regal. Tatsu to the top, but he missed a spinning heel kick. Regal smelled his running knee, but Tatsu got his kick to the head of Regal for the win.

WINNER: Tatsu, at 10:13. Not as good as you’d think. They just didn’t seem gel.

Striker, after the match, noted that Regal’s foot was under the bottom rope during the pin. Kozlov and Jackson came down to ringside as Regal pled his case with the referee. The replay confirmed Striker’s statement.

3- ZACK RYDER vs. CHRISTIAN

They haven’t really said this is for the ECW Title, but since it’s a re-match from Ryder’s title shot, wouldn’t it be? But the graphic didn’t pop up, so I guess not. Ryder worked a wrist-lock, but Christian countered with a clothesline. Jackknife pin by Ryder for two. Christian then went for a pin and got a near-fall as well. Back elbow by Christian on a charge by Ryder. He came off the second rope with a back elbow again for two. Springboard sunset flip, but Ryder rolled through and flipped Christian throat-first into the bottom rope. He then baseball slid Christian to the outside as they took a break nearly three minutes into the match.

Back to the show, Christian was trying to work out of a rear chin-lock. Back heel trip by Ryder though stunted Christian’s attempt. Headbutt to the back of the head by Ryder, then a leaping legdrop over the back of Christian’s head got two. Ryder taunted Christian as he had the match well in hand. Neck-breaker and Christian kicked out yet again. Christian flipped out of a suplex and was able to get a two-count. Ryder was met coming off the ropes by a heel kick as Christian ignited his comeback. Cross-body by Christian for a two-count. He scored with the Pendulum kick, then landed a nice Tornado DDT. That still only got a two. He went for the Killswitch, to no avail. Tiger bomb by Ryder for two. He started to get really riled up that he couldn’t put Christian away. Back-body drop by Christian that sent Ryder to the floor. He then came off the top with another cross-body, but Kozlov interfered and attacked Christian, along with the other members of his gang.

WINNER: Christian, by DQ, at 12:03. Good match between these two again.

Ryder went up to the big boys and asked what they were doing, as he said he had Christian where he wanted him. Then Ezekiel attacked him and Kozlov finished him off. The trio stood in the center of the ring, their arms raised in triumph. The show ended with them surveying the damage.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 10 2009, 01:33 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35904.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. EVAN BOURNE

DiBiase quickly took out his frustration on Bourne with successive blows in the corner. Bourne sporting a mild cast/heavy tape over his right elbow, of note. DiBiase blocked a head scissors attempt and dropped Bourne with a sidewalk slam. Action moved to the floor where Bourne nailed a splash. He wanted to follow with a running head scissors off the apron, but DiBiase caught him in mid-air and rammed him back-first into the guardrail. DiBiase in control going to break.

Back from break, DiBiase began a methodical attack on Bourne. Announcers kept talking about DX foiling Legacy's mastermind plan at the PPV. Meanwhile, DiBiase nailed a textbook standing dropkick followed by an inside-out clothesline. DiBiase thought he had it won, but Bourne kicked out for a dramatic nearfall. Bourne then made a comeback with a flying elbow smash using the heavy bandage. He dragged DiBiase to the corner for a top-rope move, but DiBiase reached his feet. He ducked a leaping leg whip, then hit the Dreamstreet finisher for the pin and the win. Announcers drew attention to this being a statement victory for DiBiase. Looks like the rise of DiBiase as a singles star.

WINNER: DiBiase in 11:00. Nice little singles match. Nothing spectacular, but a good recovery match for DiBiase, who is in line for a mega-push with that movie coming out at the end of the year. (**)

2 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. SHEAMUS

Sheamus immediately targeted the shoulder and Striker repeated his concerns from nine days ago on ECW TV when he suggested Shelton needed to call it a night and think about his career. Striker said there was a hush over the arena as they watched Shelton struggle. I'm pretty sure it has more to do with Shelton turning heel and face eight times the last three months. Sheamus ripped off the shoulder tape covering Shelton's injury and stomped the crap out of him. He finally inflicted too much damage in the ropes and reached a five count. Ref called for a DQ, giving Shelton the win. The ref helped Shelton to his feet, then Sheamus blasted Shelton with a bicycle kick to the face to KO Shelton. Sheamus slowly backed away without a win, but with his point made. Feud continues.

WINNER: Shelton via DQ in 4:00. Good continuation of the feud. Sheamus's confidence as a heel has stood out every time I've seen him in the ring. Shelton isn't that sympathetic of a figure right now, but WWE put him with the right man if they intend on making Shelton an actual babyface and ending this streak of ambiguity with Shelton's persona. (*1/4)

3 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG w/Eve) vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya)

As the action stared, the announcers talked up Hart Dynasty's new personalities trying to imitate Cryme Tyme. Shad took control for CT and ran over both men with clotheslines. HD went to the floor looking for a breather with CT standing tall going to break.

In-ring: Back from break, Cryme Tyme was still in control. JTG was in there working over Tyson Kidd's well-slicked hair. Kidd made it back to his corner and brought in Smith, who pounded on JTG in the corner. Grisham name-dropped Bret Hart with HD in control of the match. Smith knocked JTG to the floor, then he smashed him into the ring apron to inflict more punishment. HD targeting the lower back here. JTG finally made a tag to Shad and Shad cleaned house on Kidd, the legal man. Shad knocked Smith off the ring apron, then he lifted up Kidd for a facebuster and a two count. Action broke down, then HD restored order with an attempted Hart Attack, but JTG yanked Kidd to the floor. Smith then tried a Sharpshooter as the women became involved. In the confusion, Shad nailed his modified STO on Smith for the pin and the win. Natalya was in disbelief that her plan back-fired. CT celebrated in the ring while HD was stunned on the outside. Smith yelled into the ring to close the show.

WINNER: Cryme Tyme in 12:00. Standard match-up in this series with Hart Dynasty always being one step behind Cryme Tyme in the proverbial game of chess. Just not much you haven't already seen before. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 10 2009, 01:55 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35906.shtml)

(1) KEVIN NASH (c) vs. HERNANDEZ
Legends' Championship Match
WINNER: Hernandez by DQ in 3 minutes. After the match Young hits a Pile Driver on Hernandez for good measure. The crowd chants for TNA management to fire Eric. On his way out of the ring, EY mouths that Nash owes him. Taz mentions that Nash doesn't yet know about the hit.

(2) SAMOA JOE vs. AMAZING RED
X Division Championship Match
WINNER (and new X Division Champion): Amazing Red in three minutes. So obviously I'm not thrilled with how it went down, but screw it—Amazing Red is your new X Division Champion!!! Between that and AJ, I'd almost think the new TNA management is listening to the Impact Zone.

(3) SUICIDE & DANIELS vs. D'ANGELO DINERO & HOMICIDE
WINNERS: Homicide & D'Angelo Dinero in five minutes. Apparently what happened was that Homicide got in trouble for swearing in Spanish, and decided that Urbina must have snitched on him, since apparently Urbina is the only other man in Florida who understands Spanish. I did not know that.

(4) MADISON RAYNE, VELVET SKY, TRACI BROOKS, & ALISSA FLASH vs. SARITA, TAYLOR WILDE, HAMADA, & CHRISTY HEMME
Tag Team Elimination Match
WINNERS: Rayne, Sky, Flash, & Traci in 7 minutes. This had the usual problem in that several of the eliminations not making sense in any other context. On the plus side, the action was fun, and this was probably Hamada's best showing to date.

(5) ODB vs. TARA
Knockouts Championship Match
WINNER: ODB in 3 minutes. The crowd started into the match, but died completely by the end.

(6) MICK FOLEY (w/DR. STEVIE & DAFFNEY) & KURT ANGLE vs. MATT MORGAN & ABYSS
WINNERS: Abyss & Matt Morgan in four minutes. The action was really good, but I'm not sure why we spent the whole night building to a four minute main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 11 2009, 12:59 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35916.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- REY MYSTERIO vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Monkey flip by Rey sent Jericho to the outside. He dove onto Jericho with a flying body-press. But Jericho clotheslined him and took control back in the ring. Jericho picked Rey up and allowed him to land chest-first on the ring. Match was pretty slow, but still good. Jericho threw Mysterio under the bottom rope and he landed with a thud on the mats outside. They went to break about 3:05 into the match.

Jericho had Mysterio in a rear chin-lock out of break. Enziguiri by Jericho, but Rey was already on his way down when it hit so it looked not-so-good. Jericho hung Rey up chest-first on the top rope, then simply pushed him to the floor in a good heel move. Jericho set Rey up on the top rope and tried to un-mask him. Continuity! Rey pelted him with elbows that sent him to the mat in the ring. Springboard cross-body by Rey for two. JR noted that Rey gives hope to all the kids who played right field and batted ninth in Little League, and other such examples. Hey, I played RF and batted ninth in Varsity! Jericho caught Rey on a 619 attempt, which Grisham met with a Vince McMahon-like “he’s gonna hit the 619 and....noooooo!” (as in “one, two, he got him...nooooo!). Jericho caught Rey again trying a springboard and applied the Walls, this time, sitting down on the back nicely. Rey got out of it and Jericho tried to put it on again, but Rey kicked him in the head and into position for a 619, followed by the springboard splash for three.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 11:28. A notch or two below their past encounters. I think they lost their mojo. Still, better than most of the drek on Raw and Impact.

2- EVE TORRES vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL

This is non-title, for those wondering. No clean break in the corner from Michelle. She included a shove in there as well. Eve turned it around and pounded away with forearms. The two ladies brawled, rolling around on the ground as Grisham explained that Eve likes to practice karate and ju-jitsu. Perfect timing, Todd. Running knee to the face of Eve by McCool in the corner. Michelle continued using the knee, protected by a rather large knee-brace. McCool tied Eve’s arms around her throat and shook her around. Eve broke free and hit a few one-footed dropkicks. Forward somersault for two. She tried a handspring elbow in the corner, but McCoool got the foot up. Inside cradle by Eve for two. Big boot to the chest by McCool (though JR tried to sell it as a shot to the jaw), which carried a lot of sound, and got the win. Upon replay, her toe may have caught Eve in the jaw.

WINNER: McCool, at 3:18. Short match, so they couldn’t screw too much up. It was fine.

3- JOHN MORRISON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Bell rang as soon as they came back from break. Ziggler with a take-down as he kept things on the mat. Morrison matched him there though. Dropkick by Morrison took Ziggler down for a near-fall. The men struggled over a backslide, but Morrison hit an inverted back-breaker, then a Russian leg-sweep. Maria came down to cheer on Ziggler at ringside. She took a seat next to the commentators. I guess so she doesn’t look like an actual manager. The two went back-and-forth until Ziggler hit a belly-to-back suplex nicely for a two. Splash in the corner by Ziggler. Dolph slammed Morrison’s head into the mat several times, then hit a screaming standing elbow-drop for two. Ziggler kept the heat on Morrison and taunted him by proclaiming himself “new champ” to Morrison. Scoop slam got two for the former Spirit Squad member. Morrison tried to get the fans behind him as he was stuck in a submission hold. He ended up getting to a vertical base and flipping the switch on an electric chair (as JR said). Morrison got his second wind and clotheslined Dolph down, then landed a heel kick and a standing shooting-star press for two. Morrison hit a cross-body on Ziggler too close to the ropes and both men were propelled over the top. Ziggler thought about bringing a chair in, but stopped short. Drokick from Ziggler back in the ring. He went to get the chair he set by ringside, but Maria had taken it back to sit in. Ziggler turned around and into a Flying Chuck kick. Morrison got the win.

WINNER: Morrison, at 9:44. Ziggler is the Buffalo Bills of I.C. Title chasers. 0-4 at least now.

4- R-TRUTH & MATT HARDY vs. DREW MCINTYRE & KANE

Drew didn’t get much of an entrance, which was cut off during the break. Blind tag made by Kane, who kicked an unsuspecting Truth right in the mush. He went to work on Truth in the corner. Basement dropkick by the big man. The heels did some team-work until Truth did a drop-toe hold on Kane. He made the tag to Hardy, who cleaned house on the Scot. Second-rope elbow by Matt, then a Side Effect for two. Kane broke up a pin, but Truth dropkicked him to the apron. McIntyre saw his chance and attacked Truth. Matt was pushed into Kane, who landed an uppercut. Double-underhook DDT on Hardy by Mac for the win.

WINNERS: Kane and Hardy, at 3:56. Hardy taking the pin here was kinda surprising.

5- BATISTA vs. C.M. PUNK

Punk threw his t-shirt at Batista, then left the ring before the match began. Hard whip into the corner by Batista and a follow-up clothesline once the match began. Punk scurries to ringside when he got the next opportunity. Punk went to the apron and choked Batista over the top rope. Springboard clothesline was stopped by a Batista boot, and Punk ran away again after Batista attempted a powerbomb. They went to break about 2:30 into the main event.

Batista was in control as the show returned. He got a two-count off of a suplex. The ankle-lock was applied by Batista, but Punk got to the ropes. He scampered around ringside, then caught Batista coming back into the ring. Elbow to the back of the head of Big Dave. Punk got Batista to the ground and put him in a head-scissors. Batista broke free and slammed Punk to the mat. The Animal used his strength to keep Punk at bay, slamming him in the corner and then to then down with a spinebuster. Punk came back with a running knee in the corner. Batista went for a spear, but Punk kicked him in the head. Batista dodged another knee in the corner and he spinebusted Punk again. He began his Warrior routine, and Punk smartly went to the outside again. He tried to go under the ring but Batista grabbed his legs. He went to powerbomb Punk on the outside, but Punk grabbed the top rope. He struggled a while, then kicked Batista away to the floor at a nine-count, made it back in the ring and won the match.

WINNER: Punk, at 11:22. OK match, but it didn’t do much for Punk.

Speaking of not doing much for Punk, he got Batista Bombed after the match. They went out soon after, with Batista staring at the ref and Punk prone in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 14 2009, 01:17 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_35963.shtml)

1 -- Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. Unified tag champion BIG SHOW
WINNER: Show at 4:35. Unique match. It worked to get Show and Jericho on opposite sides of the Bragging Rights deal. There seemed to be the tease of a Show babyface turn included. (*1/2)

2 -- Divas champion MICKIE JAMES vs. JILLIAN
WINNER: Jillian at 1:27 to capture the Divas Title.

3 -- Divas champion JILLIAN vs. MELINA
WINNER: Melina at 0:27 to capture the Divas Title. Well, that's about as close to the definition of a transitional champion as you can get. Interesting to see what the story is with Mickie, whose title reign was cut short very quickly. (n/a)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. vs. CODY RHODES -- Bragging Rights qualifying match
WINNER: Cody Rhodes at 13:20 to earn a slot at Bragging Rights. Good made-for-TV match to see how the combustible elements would play out in the ring. Seeds are definitely being planted for Cody to come out of this Legacy grouping as a strong heel with DiBiase a sympathetic babyface just in time to promote his movie at the end of the year. (**1/2)

5 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP -- Bragging Rights qualifying match
WINNER: Swagger at 2:32. What a shock, another short mid-card Raw match. Match was just there. (1/2*)

6 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Bragging Rights qualifying match
WINNER: Kofi at 2:48 of what aired. Okay match. Crowd is being conditioned to sit there and wait for the finish with these mid-card Raw matches since WWE doesn't give them focus or attention or nurturing week after week after week. Bourne is Mr. Teflon right now taking regular losses, but not in a way where he's getting enough offense to at least give the audience a tease that he's on the verge of being pushed like a major star. (*1/4)

7 -- KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM & MARIA MENOUNOS (w/Nancy O'Dell) vs. BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES & ALICIA FOX
WINNERS: Team Maria at 2:30. Match outcome didn't really matter, as WWE got their clip for Access Hollywood and other entertainment outlets. WWE protected Maria in the six-diva format so she didn't have to do much to help her team "win." (n/a)

8 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & JOHN CENA vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES
WINNERS: DiBiase & Rhodes at 6:10. Trouble is a-brewing in Legacy. Good use of the combustible elements throughout the show to plant seeds for future storyline developments. Match premise was weak and Orton looked weak, as usual, but the focus is at least on developing DiBiase and Rhodes right now. (*1/4)
Post-match: Cole announced that Cena's opponent next week has been made ... it's Triple H. It's only fitting this show would close with "the biggest match ever" in Cena's career featuring Triple H. The graphic showed on the video screen and Cena went from confident to his "concerned, thinking about what to do, should I even life live even more?" facial expression to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 14 2009, 02:30 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 10-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36001.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/Kozlov) vs. GOLDUST

Goldust held the early advantage, which only upset Jackson. Jackson smiled a heelish smile and charged Goldust. After an exchange, Jackson landed a giant clothesline that put Goldy on the mat. Jackson went to work on Goldust with mat holds and the crowd rallied behind Goldust, but Jackson cut off a comeback. Back to mat holds for Zeke. Goldust then blocked a charge with a big boot. He made a comeback with his uppercut before landing a bulldog for a two count. Goldust then went up top, but Kozlov distracted the ref and Jackson kicked Goldust in the head. Jackson followed with his uranage finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kozlov looked at Jackson approvingly, but decided he needed to send a follow-up message with his Iron Curtain uranage to put an exclamation mark on the match.

WINNER: Jackson in 5:00. Fine match. Just continuing to build up the Ruthless Roundtable. WWE is investing plenty of time into the group with 1.3-1.5 million viewers watching them in the ring. Goldust had enough offense to look credible, no one will remember him losing next week, and he was put on TV for a solid five minutes. (*)

2 -- THE HURRICANE vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Mathews gave us a reason for the match: Burchill can't move on with his career until he gets to the bottom of the Hurricane/Helms mystery. Hurricane had some early offense, but Burchill predictably cut him off and methodically went to work on Cane. Burch kept working the left arm/elbow, then Hurricane made a one-arm comeback including a Thesz Press. He then went to the second rope and nailed a huracanrana for a two count.

Burchill went back to work on the shoulder with a single arm DDT. The action moved to the corner turnbuckles as the crowd came to life. Hurricane was positioned in a precarious position, but he fought Burchill off and planted him on the mat. Cane then came off the top with a crossbody splash for a close two coun. Katie Lea breathed a deep sigh of relief. Crowd was fully into the match with an increasing clap as they set up the finish. Burchill blocked a top rope huracanrana by dumping Hurricane on the back of his neck on the mat. That set up the Goldberg jackhammer suplex on the neck for the pin and the win. Striker congratulated Burchill on picking up a measure of revenge on Hurricane, who gritted his teeth and sold injuries in the ring after taking the loss.

WINNER: Burchill in 8:00. Solid, solid singles TV match. Crowd really got into the final two minutes of the match after good build-up, which was a good sign for the "warm-up" show at an ECW/SD TV taping. Hurricane has delivered some very solid matches since returning to in-ring action. Credit Burchill as well. (**)

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL & ZACK RYDER vs. ECW champion CHRISTIAN & YOSHI TATSU

Plenty of time for our TV main event tonight. Yoshi and Ryder started things off in a battle of future stars. Striker and Mathews debated who should be the next contender to Christian's ECW Title. They talked about the other three men in the match having their reasons for deserving a future title shot against Christian. The match action broke down on the floor two minutes in with Christian taking out both Regal and Ryder on the floor with a plancha. Meanwhile, Yoshi stuck the rules and held onto his tag rope in the corner awaiting a tag as they cut to break.

Back from break, Regal and Christian were battling center ring. Christian broke free of Regal and made a tag to Yoshi, who cleaned house on Ryder, who also took a tag. Yoshi landed some offense on Ryder for a two count, then Ryder landed an elbow strike to the gut. Yoshi absorbed the blow, then rolled through a snapmare into a kick strike. Sweet move.

At the top of the hour, the action broke down momentarily, which allowed Ryder to take down Yoshi and tag in Regal for a legal attack on Yoshi. Regal landed signature knee strikes to the gut in the corner. He followed with an elbow strike off the ropes for a one count. Ryder then tagged back in and worked over Yoshi. He landed a Samoa Joe face wash kick in the corner. (Striker even called it the face wash.) Action slowed down, the crowd became involved, and Yoshi fired off a roaring elbow to tag in Christian.

Christian went to work on Ryder with palm thrusts before landing a spin kick and a running elbow strike on a seated Ryder. Christian knocked Regal off the apron, then hit a springboard sunset flip on Ryder for a two count. Ryder then blocked the Killswitch and hit his semi-finisher leg sweep drop for a two count. The action broke down at this point with bodies flying everywhere. Regal then smashed Yoshi into the ring steps on the floor. Christian went up top back in the ring, but Regal ran interference. Regal then tagged in for Ryder, who didn't appreciate the tag. Ryder said he had it won. Ryder then turned on Regal out of frustration and Regal stumbled into the Killswitch from Christian for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ryder slowly walked away from the ring with a self-satisfied look on his face as Christian celebrated with Yoshi in the ring. Christian and Yoshi stood tall over Regal to close out the show.

WINNERS: Christian & Yoshi in 14:00. I smell a six-man tag with Christian & Yoshi & Ryder vs. Regal & the Roundtable. This was a good, solid, competitive tag match main event that continued to put emphasis on Ryder and Yoshi as two future stars for WWE. Good use of everyone in the match to conclude a solid episode of the show. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2009, 12:32 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36057.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. MARK HENRY

Masters quickly bailed out of the ring to get a breather as Henry started his attack. Masters regrouped, then took a beating from Henry back in the ring. Masters tried a sunset flip attempt, but Henry sat down on his chest to the delight of the audience. Masters then slid to the outside for another attempt to regroup. Henry tried to follow-up on the outside, but Masters rammed him shoulder-first into the ringpost. Cut to break.

Back from break, Masters was in Henry's grasp via the bear hug. Masters broke free, then cut the big man down to the mat and began working the leg. Lawler and Cole tried to flesh out the Raw vs. Smackdown "feud" a little more on commentary while Masters slowed the pace to work on Henry's taped up knee. Masters let Henry to his feet and Henry pulled out the World's Strongest Slam out of nowhere for the pin and the win. Masters celebrated his inclusion on Team Raw, but hobbled out of the ring after the victory.

WINNER: Henry in 10:00 to qualify for Team Raw. Decent TV match. There was the bonus of there being something on the line in a Superstars match, even if the entire concept of why there is a Raw vs. Smackdown PPV match leaves a lot to be desired. (*1/4)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. KOZLOV (w/Ezekiel Jackson)

Basic start with Kozlov becoming frustrated when he couldn't put away Dreamer. Kozlov charged Dreamer against the ropes, but Dreamer pulled down the ropes to dump Koz to the floor. Dreamer tried to follow-up on the outside, but Jackson intimidated him and Kozlov ran Dreamer into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Kozlov went to work on the previously injured elbow with a series of holds before landing a single arm DDT. Back to the holds working the elbow. Dreamer tried to mount a comeback at 5:00 with a high knee lift, then he came off the second rope with a flying clothesline for a two count. Kozlov in jeopardy. Dreamer in pain. Dreamer slingshot Kozlov across the top rope, but Jackson ran interference behind the ref's back allowing Kozlov to seize an opportunity to smash the elbow across the top rope. Koz followed with the Iron Curtain uranage in the ring for the pin and the win. Afterward, Jackson finished off Dreamer with his uranage for good measure.

WINNER: Kozlov in 6:00. Better than the opening match. Dreamer should good fire to keep things interesting before the inevitable finish. Kozlov is best kept in short doses where he doesn't wear himself or the audience out. (*1/2)

3 -- IC champion JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match

Miz said Morrison has learned soooo much from him traveling the road together as a tag team. So great as a heel. Miz hyped their singles match-up and said if he's a betting man, he'd bet on The Miz. As for the match, Morrison started with an early advantage. Miz gave the best hype from anyone thus far for the Bragging Rights seven-on-seven that there's always been talk in the locker room of which brand has the better show. Morrison missed with a high-flying move to give Punk the advantage and Miz fabricated a good heel story from when they were a tag team that he would tell Morrison "'no high-flying today!' And he still would, which is why I ended the team." Punk in control going to break.

Punk had Morrison in a body-scissors on the mat out of the break. We saw why Punk was working the abdominal region with a clip from the commercial break when Punk smashed J-Mo abs-first across the ring steps on the floor. Back to real-time action where Punk scored two nearfalls and went back to work methodically taking apart Morrison. As Punk continued to work on the IC champ, they cut to Miz ringside, who kissed his U.S. Title belt after mocking his critics and plugged the Dirt Sheet returning on Friday Night Smackdown. "You want a ratings spike? You got one," he declared.

Morrison made his comeback at 12:00 while selling the ab work, then he ducked a kick strike and nailed a roundhouse kick. "Note to self: watch the stupid spinny kick," Miz said dryly. Punk then went back to the abs with knee strikes and nailed his running knee strike in the corner. Morrison blocked the bulldog, then hit a kick strike for a two count. Morrison tried to finish Punk with Starship Pin, but Punk got up and crotched Morrison on the top turnbuckle. Punk tried to follow with a suplex, but Morrison elbowed him down to the mat. Miz suddenly ran into the ring and pulled Punk out of harm's way, causing a DQ. Apparently Morrison was DQ'ed because Miz interfered against Punk.

Anyways, Miz grabbed his U.S. Title belt and cockily walked away from ringside while Morrison frowned at him. Punk had his hand raised, so Morrison busted out a springboard Flying Chuck kick on Punk to KO the former champ. Morrison got his music on the way out as Grisham plugged Miz and Morrison on the Dirt Sheet tomorrow night on Smackdown.

WINNER: Punk via DQ in 15:00. Very good singles match for an edition of Superstars. Had the feel of a Smackdown top-of-the-second-hour main event. Miz was awesome on commentary being a good heel, promoting storylines, and promoting Smackdown tomorrow night. One of the better wrestlers-on-commentary appearances in some time. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2009, 12:49 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36059.shtml)

(1) THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE vs. TARA, ODB, & AWESOME KONG
WINNERS: The Beautiful People in four minutes. This was effective, but nothing more.

(2) AMAZING RED vs. SUICIDE
X Division Championship Match
WINNER: No contest in 4 minutes. You know what would be tragic? The beloved X Division Champion winning a match cleanly. The action was great till the finish—I had to watch the whole match twice just to type up most of it.

3) HERNANDEZ vs. THE BRITISH INVASION
Gauntlet Match
3a) HERNANDEZ vs. DOUG WILLIAMS
3b) HERNANDEZ vs. BRUTUS MAGNUS
3c) HERNANDEZ vs. ROB TERRY
WINNER: Hernandez in five minutes. Hernandez is one of the most fun people to watch squash some folk, though this doesn't help TNA's attempt to build up World Elite as a rival to the MEM.
After the match Eric Young runs into the ring as Hernandez celebrates. He's gotten a kendo stick from somewhere, and he uses it to beat the hell out of Hernandez. Williams hits his Spinning European Uppercut as Magnus holds Hernandez up, and the World Elite celebrate.

(4) D'ANGELO DINERO vs. DANIELS
WINNER: Daniels in six—it's nice to know that sometimes matches just end.
After the match, Suicide's music hits. He comes down to the ring, then suddenly attacks Daniels. Hah—it's Homicide! Okay, this time they got me. Sure enough, he nails Daniels with a Gringo Killer, then takes off his mask. Security guards chase him away.

(5) HAMADA vs. ALISSA FLASH
Falls Count Anywhere
WINNER: Hamada in five minutes. It might seem weird to have two people who aren't on the upcoming PPV compete, but I think it's a nice way of emphasizing the depth in the division. I would have given Flash the win, but didn't expect TNA to.

(6) RHINO vs. LASHLEY
Stretcher Match
WINNER: Lashley in five minutes. Poor Rhino.

(7) AJ STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE
WINNER: Draw in 20 minutes. That was a worse ending than I'd hoped for, but far better than I expected. The action was pretty damn good all the way through. I think I have an idea where they might be going with this though (see below)—if I'm correct, then they're actually doing something right. ***1/2

Star of the Night: AJ Styles. It's clearly either him or Angle, and AJ gets a slight nod for his selling of frustration at the end.

Overall: I really don't think it would be fair to criticize tonight's performers for the fact that 43 of the last 45 minutes of the show were giant holes of suckitude, as they presumably had no control over that. Maybe all that hyping will lead to higher buy rates than more programming would have, but I would certainly be surprised if that is the case. It also made the claim of "3 hours of wrestling" an even bigger lie than I'd imagined it would be. For my purposes, then, I'll treat the show as having ended at about 11:15 (with the Angle and Styles interviews tacked on). That show was pretty damned good. There was nothing really game changing, but there was a lot of rock-solid action. The main event alone was worth the price of admission. Counting only that, I think tonight's episode merits an A-. The rest of the "show" I've decided to simply repress from memory.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2009, 11:44 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-16-09

Resuults courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36083.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- FINLAY vs. MIKE KNOX vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER- TRIPLE-THREAT BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Ziggler tried to get Knox to team up with him on Finlay, but after a handshake, they didn’t even get one move in together, as Knox gave him a short-arm clothesline. Knox got taken to the outside right off the bat however. Ziggler clotheslined Finlay over the top and to the outside just as Knox was getting back into the picture. Ziggler was on the apron while Knox bulled right into him, knocking Ziggler to ringside. I guess they’re referring to the Smackdown guys as “The Smackdown Seven.” They’ve said it about a million times already. Finlay broke up a cover back in the ring, as Ziggler had Knox down. Not much of a crowd reaction here. Finlay fought off Ziggler and plowed him into the buckle. He placed Dolph on the top rope, but before he could executed a move, Knox came over and gave Finlay an electric chair. Ziggler came off the top and onto Finlay, then his pin was broken up by Knox. Dropkick by Ziggler, not one of his best, for two on Finlay. Finlay got his boot up on a corner charge and hit the rolling Samoan drop, then one on Knox as well, which got a rise out of the crowd. Or at least the audio sweetener. Knox crushed both Ziggler and Finlay in the corner. Finlay picked up his Shillaleigh and hit Knox with it. The ref’s view was obstructed and the object went under Finlay’s leg, so he didn’t see it. Ziggler broke up the pin and made his own on Knox for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 5:58. No surprise they went with Ziggler here. Not these guys’ best work.

2- CRYME TYME vs. THE HART DYNASTY -BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

AAAHHHH! NOT AGAIN! It’s the feud that won’t die! Or advance in any way. Both of the winners will be on the Bragging Rights team, for what its worth. David Hart Smith immediately cornered Shad, where Tyson Kidd illegally worked him over right in front of referee Aaron “Goose” Mahoney. Long and Jericho were shown looking on backstage. Smith worked the left leg of Shad. Ankle-lock applied, which will probably get him a talking-to from Batista backstage. Shad finally made a diving tag to JTG. Kidd came in for the first time as well. He took out Kidd and Smith, then hit his face-buster out of the corner (called “The Mug-Shot”). Smith distracted JTG, allowing Kidd to get a roll-up. But he pushed Kidd off into Smith, who was taken care of on the outside by Shad. Side roll by Kidd for two. Shad held onto Kidd’s legs on the apron on a springboard attempt. Kidd eventually attempted it, but the one second pause cost him, as JTG saw it coming and landed his finisher on Kidd for the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme, at 3:30. Decent enough match, but I’m bored to tears with these four.

3- ERIC ESCOBAR vs. MATT HARDY

This should be interesting. Matt fed him some right hands off the bat. Backslide by Hardy in the first minute for one. Escobar tried a suplex, but Hardy with an inside cradle got two. Back elbow by Escobar was his first sustained offense. Rear chin-lock by the heel. Bodyslam by Escobar, but he missed a back-splash. Escobar walked right into a Side Effect for two. Second-rope elbow landed by Hardy. Vickie got up on the apron and complained of an ankle injury. The ref of course checked on her and Escobar shoved Hardy off of him and nearly into the ref. Hardy stopped short, but Escobar capitalized by throwing him into the ring post and rolling him up for the pin.

WINNER: Escobar, at 2:40. Escobar didn’t show much in this one, but didn’t really have a chance.

4- R-TRUTH vs. DREW MCINTYRE- BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Truth was aggressive against McIntyre in the early going. High hip-toss by Truth, then a dropkick that sent McIntyre to ringside. He dove over the top and onto Drew at ringside. They went to break about a minute into the match.

McIntyre had Truth on the mat in a chin-lock out of break. He took control during the break on the outside, by throwing Truth into the steel steps. Truth again was able to throw McIntyre out of the ring and perhaps off his game. Truth’s back was slammed into the ring post as McIntyre was in the ring and Truth was on the apron. Bodyslam by McIntyre. He went to the middle rope, but came down on Truth’s foot, which the former K-Kwik stuck up in the air. Standing side kick from Truth as his comeback began. Axe kick missed and McIntyre set up for his finisher, but Truth backed him into the corner. Clothesline over the top by Truth. Truth had McIntyre by the hair, but McIntyre took out his legs and Truth landed back-first on the steel steps. He could not beat the count back into the ring.

WINNER: McIntyre, by count-out, at 8:35. Solid enough match, better than their PPV encounter. With McIntyre and Escobar on the team at Bragging Rights though, Raw’s has so much more star power. But props to Smackdown for putting new faces in a big spot.

5- REY MYSTERIO vs. BATISTA

Rey tried a cross-body and Batista looked a bit bemused, tossing Rey back to his feet rather than actually powering him down. Batista threw Mysterio under the ropes and Mysterio flipped to avoid getting hurt. He went right back in the ring as the two men circled each other as they went to break.

The men were smiling at each other, all friendly-like, after Batista shoved him off and to the mat in the corner. Batista used his power to shove him off again. Rey didn’t seem happy, so he went after the legs of the big man. He dropped Batista onto the middle rope, but Batista ducked the 619. They had a small argument and Batista kicked Rey in the mid-section. Rey came off the ropes and Batista speared him. Rey was taken to the outside and finally made it in at the count of nine. A cover by Batista got two. Shoulders to the gut in the corner by Big Dave. Knee-lift nicely done by Batista for two. Bear-hug applied by Batista. He took Rey to the mat with it and Mysterio tried to elbow out. He did and followed up with an attempted sunset-flip. He avoided pain and Rey went to the legs again. 619 connected as Cole shouted “Mysterio is going to do it!,” so you knew he wouldn’t. Soon after, Mysterio took Batista down and hooked the legs for the one, two, three. Or did he?

WINNER: Mysterio, at 9:00.

Batista argued that he got his shoulder up in time, and Cole thought he did as well. Batista shook hands with Rey and raised his arm after the match, despite not being really happy with the result. Looked like Batista got the right shoulder up upon replay. As Batista cheered on from the stage, C.M. Punk came out of the crowd and attacked Rey with the GTS. He left the ring (and hilariously gave Batista the double guns hand signal) before Batista could get in to help. Batista got Rey to his feet as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 19 2009, 01:04 pm
TNA Bound For Glory PPV Results: 10-18-09

First half PPV results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_36107.shtml) Second half PPV results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_36109.shtml)

Pre-show match:
1- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. LETHAL CONSEQUENCES
Winning team will participate in the Ultimate X Match that will open the PPV. Mike Tenay and Taz were on commentary. Apparently, D'Angelo Dinero was in Irvine, but was called away due to a family emergency, so he will not be participating in the Ultimate X Match.
WINNERS: Machine Guns, at 5:53. Fast-paced, high-energy match.

1- CHRIS SABIN vs. ALEX SHELLEY vs. SUICIDE vs. HOMICIDE vs. DANIELS vs. AMAZING RED- ULTIMATE X MATCH FOR THE X DIVISION
CHAMPIONSHIP
WINNER: Red, at 15:16. Kind of anti-climactic finish. I know it gets the crowd going, but some of these moves and falls were just too dangerous. They should really scale things back a bit.

2- VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE vs. SARITA & TAYLOR WILDE- KNOCKOUTS TAG TEAM TITLE
WINNERS: Sarita & Wilde, at 2:59. Surprised at how short it was. Fine while it lasted, I guess.

3- HERNANDEZ vs. ERIC YOUNG vs. KEVIN NASH- THREE-WAY MATCH FOR THE LEGENDS CHAMPIONSHIP
WINNER: Young, at 8:53. Finish didn't really make sense as why would EY want to anger Nash and the Mafia any further? I thought Hernandez would come out looking a little better.

4- SCOTT STEINER & BOOKER T. vs. BRUTUS MAGNUS & DOUG WILLIAMS vs. BEER MONEY, INC. vs. TEAM 3D- FULL METAL MAYHEM MATCH FOR THE TNA & IWGP TAG TITLES
WINNERS: Team 3D (IWGP Titles) and The British Invasion (TNA Tag Titles) at 17:22. Nice garbage match. Entertaining, at least. They didn't give Booker much to do in what could be his last show.

5 -- Knockouts champion ODB vs. TARA vs. AWESOME KONG -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: ODB in 7:00 to retain the Knockouts Title. Why the outside interference? TNA really, really, really gave ODB a lot of credibility here by having her kick out of two Kong finishers. Tara's mid-ring disappearance was odd and took away from the flow of the match, scripted or unscripted.

6 -- SAMOA JOE vs. BOBBY LASHLEY -- 15 minute time limit -- Submissions match
WINNER: Lashley via submission in 9:00. Wrong man was booked to win here. But, TNA has put so much money and effort into building up a mid-card act from WWE with MMA cross-over potential that they had to give Lashley the win. Joe was very popular in his hometown, but that will translate back in Orlando at TV if TNA puts Joe back in his rightful position of being a badass with a mean streak who delivers awesome wrestling. Match was good for only nine minutes. (**3/4)

7 -- ABYSS vs. MICK FOLEY -- Extreme Monster's Ball match
WINNER: Abyss in 12:00. The dumbest, most stupid, most ridiculous, most asinine match I've ever watched. Just set wrestling back 15 years. Get this crap off the TNA TV product. Dumb spots, no one selling anything, outside interference again, a four count, a ridiculous referee situation, and the laughable taser gimmick again. Every month, I say something like "It wasn't for me" or "This isn't my type of match," but this was just plain stupid. This company just doesn't get it. (DUD)

8 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MATT MORGAN
WINNER: Excellent match. Of course, anything following the Abyss-Foley disaster would have been awesome. But, this, as a standalone match, was terrific. And the right man won. Angle proved once again why he's one of the best wrestlers in the business right now. He carried Abyss to an awesome PPV match a few months ago and carried Morgan to a great match here. Morgan was solid here, but he's better-suited as a heel. Fans just haven't been given any reason to cheer him. Meanwhile, Angle is ready for a babyface turn with the Mafia being knocked down a peg or two. (****)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. STYLES vs. STING -- TNA World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Styles in 14:00 to retain the TNA World Title. Fine match with Styles doing his thing athletically to cover for Sting, who is limited in the ring. Wasn't particularly memorable, but it held its own as a TNA PPV main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 20 2009, 03:03 pm
WWE RAW Results: 10-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36143.shtml)

1 -- TEAM RAW (KOFI KINGSTON & CODY RHODES & MARK HENRY & BIG SHOW & JACK SWAGGER) vs. RAW REPLACEMENTS (CHRIS MASTERS & CHAVO GUERRERO & EVAN BOURNE & MVP & PRIMO COLON
WINNERS: Team Raw at 3:10. Okay match with Kofi Kingston establishing more leadership here. Swagger was good at the end playing to his character. Post-match was a bit of a mess, but established the point. (*)

2 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. TED DIBIASE, JR. -- non-title match
WINNER: Orton at 4:22. Awesome, storyline-driven match. It took a while for the crowd to really buy into the storyline development, but DiBiase generated an authentic babyface pop for that one shove on Orton. DiBiase was borderline over-the-top with his "I'm going to rip your head off, but I'm so conflicted right now" expressions, but I thought he really handled that well. Good performances all-around and they reinforced Orton as the evil, sinister, snake-like heel. Excellent work. (**)

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. TRIPLE H
WINNER: Hunter at 20:17. Awesome TV singles match. Just awesome. Hunter looked refreshed and healthy. Cena looked swift and agile. They almost gave away too much to where viewers might not think they need to order the PPV. It's the same question from the HBK vs. Cena near-one-hour match right before Backlash 2007 after WrestleMania 23. We'll see if there's still enough there for people to be convinced to spend $40 for a different match-up - Orton vs. Cena - after they saw one of the competitors in an epic TV singles match. Orton has been presented so well tonight that perhaps there will be enough to generate a good number of PPV buys. As for the finish, Hunter scoring the pin sets him up for a title shot against Cena if Cena is booked to win the title on Sunday. Next week: "Hey, Cena, I beat you last week, now I want my title shot." And we can all look forward to more repeats if that's the case. (****1/4)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. MARTY JANNETTY
WINNER: Miz at 2:43. Jannetty didn't look good on a bad wheel and he was a step off his game. He picked up a payday to enhance Miz vs. Morrison on Sunday, but this didn't benefit Miz by being booked to look even against Marty. (1/2*)

5 -- Divas champion MELINA vs. JILLIAN HALL (w/Chavo Guerrero)
WINNER: Melina at 0:58 to retain the Divas Title. Match was just there to set up the "feel good" dancing with Snoop, Hornswoggle, and the Divas. This should get WWE their weekly dose of mainstream publicity, especially Snoop throwing a spear and clothesline on Chavo. (n/a)

6 -- SHAWN MICHAELS vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- never happened
Smackdown's team came out, followed by RAW's team and a melee resulted.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 22 2009, 02:06 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 10-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36175.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. ZACK RYDER -- #1 contender match

Yoshi scored an early nearfall in the match as the crowd chanted his name. Yoshi, of note, was sporting red trunks representing the colors of Japan rather than the emerald green representing NOAH. Ryder knocked Yoshi to the floor and kicked him in the gut a few times before bringing the attack back into the ring. Matt Striker interjected that Ryder went back to the gym during the week to prepare for a faster, quick Yoshi. From a kayfabe perspective, according to what Striker said, if Ryder knew he had a match this week against Yoshi, then why didn't WWE advertise this match - or any match - ahead of time? Odd lack of promotion for tonight's show. Yoshi made a comeback at 4:00 with fast kicks before nailing an enziguiri kick from the corner for a two count. Yoshi called for the end and went up, but Ryder blocked and teased a superplex. Suddenly, both men fell awkwardly off the top turnbuckle down to the floor below. Both men down going to break. [Commercial Break] Back from break, they exchanged control until Yoshi scored a surprise pin on Ryder to win the match and become #1 contender. So, it will be teacher vs. student for the title at a time to be determined.

WINNER: Yoshi in 10:00 to become #1 contender. Solid match. Ryder didn't lose too much in the defeat, as Yoshi is hot right now and being built up as a future ECW brand star. Ryder just needs a definitive program after the PPV to keep his own personal momentum after being interjected into ECW the main event situation. (**)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. J.T. QUINN

Wow, Striker actually referred to Perkins as Puma after the opening bell. Striker earned some brownie points there. Sheamus had Perkins pinned twice, but he pulled off a pin to rile up the audience. Suddenly, Shelton Benjamin stormed the ring in street clothes to begin a brawl. Benjamin smashed Sheamus to the outside. Striker referenced Shelton in his home state tonight. Shelton, energized, blasted Sheamus with a German suplex and Sheamus bailed to the outside as Shelton told him to get back in the ring and get some.

WINNER: Perkins/Quinn/Puma via DQ in 2:00. Awesome attack by Shelton, who showed uncharacteristic fire. Well done to continue this feud with massive potential. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match

Bell sounded and Jericho bailed to the floor to make Christian sweat a little. Striker said both men are the longest-reigning champions in WWE after their respective title victories at Night of Champions in July. And Striker is wrong with that statement. Michelle McCool has been Women's champion since The Bash in June. Jericho was on the offensive and took a while trying to set up the Lionsault, so Christian smashed him to the outside. Jericho followed with a baseball slide kick through the ropes to KO Jericho on the floor. Christian in control going to break.

Back from break, Jericho was in control. Striker referenced "Lionheart" Chris Jericho and talked about the things Jericho, Dean Malenko, and Eddie Guerrero on Nitro that got people talking back in the 1990s. Striker is just in heaven tonight talking about his wrestling fandom. Jericho did some damage to Christian on the floor, then cupped his ear to the crowd as they booed and cat-called him. Back in the ring, Christian went to work on Christian, who came back with a hard slap to the ear that sounded pretty good via the acoustic enhancement trick from Christian. Jericho shook it off, then stood on Christian's back and choked Christian across the bottom rope. Jericho went to a reverse chinlock as the crowd rallied behind Christian approaching the top of the hour.

Jericho cupped his ear to the crowd again as he surveyed the damage on Christian. He then went for the Lionsault, but Christian moved. Ref Charles Robinson delivered time cues to both men as they recovered to their feet and the wrestlers started building to the finish. Christian wanted the Killswitch, but Jericho ducked only to take a drop toe hold into the bottom rope. Christian then did his move that Jericho stole earlier in the match by standing on the back to choke Jericho across the middle rope. Christian with an ill-advised top rope move, but Jericho countered with the Walls of Jericho. Christian escaped, though, and rolled up Jericho for a two count. Jericho then hit a step-up enziguiri kick for a two count. Striker said he loves this stuff. Jericho wanted a bulldog, but Christian hit his fallaway reverse DDT for a two count. Christian wanted the Killswitch, but Jericho ducked down and tried the Walls. Christian blocked, so Jericho catapulted him into the corner.

Christian then flipped over Jericho with a sunset flip attempt that Jericho countered into the Walls of Jericho. Young male college students in the crowd on the front few rows were hot wanting Christian to tap out. Christian teased a tap out, but he reached the bottom rope for a break. Christian then ducked a charging tackle against the ropes and Christian nailed the Killswitch. Christian slowly rolled over Jericho and made the cover for the pin and the win. Arena was hot for the finish as the wrestlers reached the climax with the crowd ready for the finish at the right moment. That's the art form right there.

WINNER: Christian in 15:00. Excellent TV match. Didn't quite kick into the next gear until 12:00, but the final three minutes were great. They didn't even have to resort to the multiple super-close, well-timed nearfalls ala the Jericho-Rey Mysterio series of matches to get the crowd hot for the finish. Just two pros going at it. If the time comes for Christian to move to another brand, he'll have this "one up" on Jericho to play up to begin a feud. Nice to see Jericho put over Christian clean to close the show. Well done all around. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 23 2009, 02:54 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 10-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36224.shtml)

1 -- KELLY KELLY vs. GAIL KIM

The battle of babyface divas started with some "let's play nice" exchanges before the more-experienced Gail took Kelly to the mat to wear her down. Kelly then made her spirited comeback after blocking a top rope huracanrana attempt. Kelly then did her finisher where she runs off the back off her opponent and lands a splash for the pin and the win. Afterward, Kelly played nice and helped Kim to her feet to hug and celebrate for the crowd.

WINNER: Kelly in 5:00. Fine match. Gail is lower on the totem pole in the divas division right now since Kelly is more marketable. Kelly was in the 7/11 ad campaign and she's featured in the new SD vs. Raw video game commercials that are being played on ESPN. Makes sense for her to win from a marketing perspective right now. (*)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER & GOLDUST vs. KOZLOV & EZEKIEL JACKSON

Goldust told Dreamer he had this one to start. Nice little bout of height between Goldust and Jackson to start things off. Goldust apparently playing the power forward jockeying for position in the post against Jackson. Does feel like a good old fashioned power vs. power match-up here. Dreamer then was out-sized at the small forward position as the Roundtable beat on him for a while. "Weight room, son!" Jackson continued the beating at 5:00 as Goldust tried to rally up the crowd. Dreamer finally made a hot tag and the action broke down. With the ref distracted, Dreamer with a back elbow smash to the back of the head on Kozlov. Goldust hit the flatliner for the pin and the win on Kozlov. Whoa, that's a surprise.

Post-match: Roundtable took out their frustrations with a post-match attack. Heels quickly got their heat back with a personal foul double uranage on the victors to stand tall. Striker and Mathews narrated replays of the Roundtable "sending a message" to the locker room they will inflict damage no matter the situation.

WINNERS: Dreamer and Goldust in 7:00. Fine tag match. Dreamer took a beating, which was appropriate since he was the smallest man in the match. Goldust pinning Kozlov took me by surprise, but WWE quickly erased that with the post-match attack. Even Steven. Everyone has their moment on the D-Level show. (*1/2)

3 -- DREW MCINTYRE & ERIC ESCOBAR (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. R-TRUTH & MATT HARDY

Escobar even does a little "smooth the hair back" move ala Rick Martel after executing a move. R-Truth then ducked down below a clothesline and landed a fist smash for a one count on Escobar. I'm noticing some JBL with how Escobar moves in the ring. A hodge-podge of wrestlers is young Eric. Crowd chanted for Hardy, who entered via tag and helped Truth clothesline Drew to the floor after Drew took a tag. Babyfaces stood tall in the ring, then landed dropkicks through the ropes to knock down the heel representatives of Team Smackdown going to break.

Back from break, Drew was working on Truth as JBL...er...Escobar looked on from the apron. Even the way Escobar leans on the top rope looks like JBL. Escobar then tagged in and worked on Truth's back and arm to continue the advantage for Team Smackdown. Hardy began pacing the ring apron trying to rally the crowd as Truth fought back from his knees, only to allow Drew to re-enter the ring to deliver a fresh beating. Hardy then took a tag at 11:00 and went nuts on Drew, including a running bulldog out of the corner that was an inch off from breaking Drew's neck legit. Hardy then landed a boot to the face followed by a moonsault for a two count when Eric broke up the pin.

Action broke down with Vickie on the apron, then Truth tried a splash on the floor, but Eric moved and Truth ate the floor. Hardy tried a pin in the ring, but Drew kicked out. Drew then shot Hardy off to the ropes and Eric smashed him from the floor. Hardy then stumbled into Drew, who finished him off with a double underhook DDT for the win.

Post-match: Eric planted a soft kiss on Vickie as the announcers plugged Eric and Drew part of Team Smackdown at the PPV. During a replay, the announcers speculated how much of a difference they'll make at Bragging Rights. Well...

WINNERS: Escobar & McIntyre in 12:00. Good tag match. I was impressed with the Twin Towers in a full-length match situation. They don't quite have "star power" and have just scratched the surface of their charisma, so I'm confident they'll be around for a while. Definitely McIntyre. Hardy taking the loss is par for the course lately. Stay tuned for Friday, though. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 23 2009, 03:09 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 10-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36225.shtml)

(1) HOMICIDE vs. AMAZING RED
WINNER: Homicide in 3 minutes, plus one on the outside. The short loss makes more sense than usual, given the prematch ambush. The action was unbelievable while it lasted. I'm stoked for their title match, when it happens.

(2) MATT MORGAN vs. SCOTT STEINER
WINNER: Matt Morgan in five minutes. The ref I think tried to act like he missed all the interference, though Tenay claims he just decided to let it go. I can't decide what I think about the fact that Lashley managed to somehow evince absolutely no personality even when running out to save his wife. It's rather impressive, really.

(3) SAMOA JOE & KEVIN NASH vs. AJ STYLES & DANIELS
WINNERS: Joe & Nash in six minutes. That was pretty good, if a predictable attempt to break up Styles & Daniels.

(4) AWESOME KONG vs. RAESHA SAEED
WINNER: Awesome Kong in 3 minutes. They did a really good job actually working Saeed's knowledge of Kong into the story of the match.

(5) HERNANDEZ vs. RHINO
WINNER: Hernandez in three minutes. Tenay on commentary tried to sell us on Rhino talking sense. If they just want to make the heel plausible and understandable, I'm all for that. But if they recreate The Millionaires' Club as faces, I will not be pleased.

(6) LETHAL CONSEQUENCES vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINGE GUNS
Ultimate X #1 Contender's Match
WINNERS: The Motor City Machine Guns in 8 minutes. This was far from the best Ultimate X, but it was still fairly awesome. If you thought this was a pointless spot-fest, you are probably right, but I don't really see your point. Moreover, other than the Super Sliced Bread #2 nothing even looked overly dangerous (when people came down off the ropes they typically landed on their feet), so it was something of a win-win. If you actively disliked this match, you're probably watching the wrong show—this was the foundation on which the TNA house was built.

(7) THE BRITISH INVASION (c) w/ROB TERRY vs. BEER MONEY INC.
Six Sides of Steel for the TNA Tag Team Championships
WINNERS by DQ: Beer Money Inc. It was a lot like the last match, but much better—just pure high octane action. Incidentally, you know what would be a good way to keep people from gaming the system—go back to the rule that the title can change hands on a DQ.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2009, 01:17 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36258.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JTG & ERIC ESCOBAR & DOLPH ZIGGLER & DREW MCINTYRE vs. MATT HARDY & FINLAY & TYSON KIDD & DAVID HART SMITH & R-TRUTH- HANDICAP MATCH, WINNERS WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE RAW vs. SMACKDOWN TAG MATCH AT BRAGGING RIGHTS

Yep, it pretty much is everyone who lost last week, only without Mike Knox. Thrilling and original. JTG started with his legdrop over the back of the neck of Kidd for a one-count. Short clothesline from Finlay took one-half of Cryme Tyme to the mat. Finlay then took his roughhouse style to Ziggler, slamming a shoulder into his gut in the corner. Corner charge by Ziggler and no one was home- his head even hit the steel post. He went to the outside as the show went to break about 2:20 into the match.

Escobar with a light clothesline on Finlay, so much so that Fit barely sold it. Jericho and Kane were looking on backstage as Ziggler tagged in, rolling up Finlay for one. Rear chin-lock by Ziggler. The announcers reminded fans that Shad Gaspard was under the weather, which is why it’s a handicap match, and that JR is as well. Hardy made a tag to a decent pop (first of the match) and planted Ziggler into the mat for two. Everybody played abandon ship nd ended on the outside, except Hardy and JTG. But Finlay use the Shillelagh and Hardy hit the Twist of Fate for the win.

WINNERS: Hardy, Finlay, Kidd, Smith and R-Truth, at 9:35. Great, now on Smackdown’s side is guys who all lost last week, and guys who have been on the losing end of feuds: R-Truth with McIntyre, the Harts with Cryme Tyme, and Hardy with everyone in the last month (including taking the pin on Superstars this week). Even-steven booking taken to a whole ‘nother level, with all the losers last week winning here, and the winners losing.

2- JOHN MORRISON vs. MIKE KNOX

During Morrison’s entrance, they showed clips of Miz vs. Marty Jannetty from Raw. Another inset interview from Knox, talking about severe pain in the abdomen, something that no amount of muscle can prevent. OK then. Morrison avoided a big boot, but landed a cross-body for two. Gut-buster by Knox for only two again. Abdominal stretch by Knox. Roll-up from Morrison for two, and he then went after Knox’s leg. Running knee to the cranium by Morrison for two. Bicycle kick by Knox for two. Knox fell throat-first over the top rope on a cross-body attempt and Morrison capitalized with Starship Pain (barely hitting) for the win.

WINNER: Morrison, at 3:07. Not one of either man’s better outings. So much for the Knox push.

3- REY MYSTERIO & BATISTA vs. CHRIS JERICHO & KANE

Jericho taunted Batista with a slap, and the big man responded with a clothesline. Rey came in but was sent to the outside courtesy of the illegal man, Kane. Batista left the apron to go make sure Kane didn’t get more involved as they went to break under 2:00 into the contest.

Back with Kane working on the back of Rey. Jericho tagged in and trash talked Mysterio, slapping him around in the process. Bulldog by Rey as Batista tried to get the crowd into things. Kane made the tag and cheap-shotted Batista. The ref had to hold the Animal back and while he did, Jericho illegally took the fight to Mysterio. High vertical suplex, with Jericho flexing with one arm as he held Rey up, in an ultimate heel move, got a two count off of it. King said that when Jericho goes to a football game and sees the team huddling, he thinks they’re talking about him; that’s how ego-centric he is. Finally, both men made tags. Batista corner clotheslined Kane- Kane missed one of his own and was taken down hard by Batista, followed up by a spinebuster. Jericho got one as well. But that allowed Kane time to recover and nail Batista with a big boot. Then he threw Batista shoulder-first into the ring post. Kane got ready for the chokeslam, but Rey gave himself up, throwing himself into the hand of Kane. Kane seemed surprised, but chokeslammed him anyway. Then Batista came back and speared Kane for the win.

WINNERS: Batista & Rey, at 9:57. Perfectly fine match.

4- MICKIE JAMES vs. LAYLA

And Mickie starts out with the bottom of the totem pole. It’s funny, Cole and Lawler mentioned once again they were filling in for JR, but never brought up where Todd Grisham was. Dropkick by Mickie on Layla, but Layla came back by throwing her out of the ring. She landed on her feet and tripped Layla up. Layla grabbed Mickie’s hair and pulled her off the top rope. McCool was looking on backstage. Side roll by Layla for a one-count. Then Mickie with a roll-up for two. Sidewalk slam from Layla, but the shoulders were not down, and thus referee Aaron “Goose” Mahoney didn’t make any count. Hard slap by Mickie as Layla showed her some dis-respect. Clothesline by James, then a few light forearm shots. Neck-breaker and a beauty though, to make up for it. Layla missed a kick and Mickie jumped her with a Thesz Press. Spin kick by Mickie on Layla and that does it.

WINNER: James, at 2:46. Fine debut for Mickie, realizing she was in there with Layla.

6- C.M. PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER- SUBMISSION MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Punk was laughing and jumping up and down like a kid at ringside as Taker handed his belt to Armstrong before the match. Taker took Punk right down with a right hand, and we once again heard Cole proclaim Taker “perhaps the best pure striker in the history of the game.” Ah, I’ve missed that. Wait, no I haven’t. Punk came back and tried to lock in the Anaconda Vice, to no avail. Cole wondered if the fix was in as they went to break.

Taker threw Punk out of the ring back from break, and Punk hit his back hard on the edge of the apron. Taker continued the assault by throwing Punk onto the announce table. Long had gotten out of his chair and moved away from the action. I think there was a “we want tables” chant. Punk dodged a Taker kick and Taker landed with his leg bouncing off the top rope. Not a god move for a guy with a bad hip. On the outside, Punk slammed Taker’s skull into the steel steps, then whipped him into the steps, Taker hitting leg-first. He didn’t do his usual flip over the steps either. Punk came off the top but landed right in Taker’s grip. He went after the Dead Man’s knee to get out of it and hammered away. They traded rights, with Taker predictably getting the dupe. Vintage Undertaker with the Snake Eyes, then legdrop. Punk rolled out of the Hell’s Gate and Taker headbutted him. Taker went Old School, but Punk pulled him down. Luckily he did that, as Long got out of his chair and started walking toward the ring. High knee in the corner, then a running bulldog by Punk. Punk called for Teddy to give him the chair. Long was slow to get up....and he gave the chair to Armstrong. What a wuss. Punk took the chair from Armstrong, but Taker got his boot up on a chair charge by C.M. Taker looked at Armstrong, then chokeslammed him. He turned his attention to Teddy, who did the smart thing and started to head to the back. Taker gave him the throat slash, but Punk came from behind with a chair to the gut and the back- then to the skull. Punk yelled for Long to get him a new referee, then locked in the Anaconda Vice. Long called for the bell, but apparently, only a ref can do that. Since when? Anyway, Mike Chioda ran to the ring and as soon as he got there, Taker reversed it into Hell’s Gate for the tap-out win.

WINNER: Taker, at 11:37. Don’t know why they’d give a match like this away only a few days before the PPV match, but I guess because it’s a different stip and there was enough extracurricular activities, they didn’t give too much away. Still, odd that Long couldn’t end the match- did Taker get to Mark Yeaton?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 26 2009, 01:05 pm
WWE Bragging Rights PPV Results: 10-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_36292.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. IC champion JOHN MORRISON
WINNER: Miz at 10:53. A big win for Miz with WWE giving him a solid opportunity to use the singles victory over Morrison to continue building up his mid-card title reign. Match was good, but not quite great. Another five minutes could have entered four-star territory. This was a good, solid three-star match. (***)

2 -- RAW DIVAS (Divas champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM) vs. SMACKDOWN DIVAS (Women's champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA)
WINNERS: Team Smackdown at 6:13. So, now we're 1-1. Match outcome was pretty predictable once they mentioned the Best out of Three stip for the trophy and Miz won the opener. (*)

3 -- World Hvt. champion THE UNDERTAKER vs. C.M. PUNK vs. REY MYSTERIO vs. BATISTA -- World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Taker at 9:59 to retain the World Title. We know what the beard was for with Batista. It was a heel beard to foreshadow a heel turn. Match was pretty good for ten minutes without an extended period of time for isolations or other multiple-man tricks. Nice, competitive match. Taker looked good for being banged up. Punk played a solid heel, but he's pretty much done with Taker from here it seems unless WWE continues to drag this out some more.

4 -- TEAM RAW (TRIPLE H & SHAWN MICHAELS & BIG SHOW & MARK HENRY & KOFI KINGSTON & JACK SWAGGER & CODY RHODES) vs. TEAM SMACKDOWN (CHRIS JERICHO & KANE & TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH & FINLAY & R-TRUTH & MATT HARDY)
WINNERS: Team Smackdown at 15:33. Okay multiple-man gimmick match. Had a few moments, but the finish was a major letdown for people who bought the PPV hoping to see something definitive. Instead, it was a TNA-style "tune into the free TV show!" to find out the storyline of why Big Show did what he did. Underwhelming, unsatisfying match. I'm trying to think of who stood out in the match, but no one really did. Perhaps Hart Dynasty with the Hart Attack on HBK, but that's about it. Cody Rhodes was an after-thought, Swagger had one move, Kofi took the pin, Truth was scared, and Henry just fell on the floor. (*3/4)

5 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA -- 60-minute Iron Man match -- WWE Title match -- Anything goes
WINNER: Cena 6, Orton 5 with a submission at 59:54. Quite the war. Nothing else on this show was replay-worthy, but this was replay-worthy. WWE pulled out all the tricks, gimmicks, and other assorted items to tell a 60-minute story. Orton was the star of the match with his crazy facial expressions and psychotic behavior staying true to his character. Story at the end we'll probably see play out on Raw was Orton unable to hold on for those last six seconds or Orton complaining that he had Cena pinned at 58:00. Hard to rate this on a traditional scale, but I believe this was one of the best stories WWE has told on PPV this year. HBK vs. Taker is another level and in its own category, but this was a different type of four-to-five-star level match. (****1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 28 2009, 12:36 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36323.shtml) Use the link since this place won't let me post my version of it or use my TOKYOPOP sig link and check it out on my blog.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KOFI KINGSTON
WINNER: Kofi Kingston at 13:37. That's a veteran who is confident in his position, secure in his spot, and willing to give a younger wrestler a meaningful win in a two-segment TV match. I'd like to see another match between these two, as they didn't seem to mesh until the very end. (**1/2)

Post-match: Randy Orton snuck up behind Kofi Kingston as he celebrated on the stage and chucked Kofi off the stage to the floor below next to the NASCAR cars. Don't tell me he's going to run him over. Crowd with a loud "Cena, Cena" chant as Orton stared down at Kofi, who was checked on by medical staff. Orton was obviously upset Kofi interfered in the Iron Man match. Orton stared down at Kofi with that look as Kofi slowly made it to a seated position before they cut to promos. Kofi getting some serious attention from two of WWE's top heels tonight.

2 -- Divas champion MELINA & SANTINO MARELLA vs. JILLIAN HALL & CHAVO GUERRERO
WINNERS: Santino & Melina at 2:37. Match was just there and forgettable. Typical WWE trying to own a story in the news, this time related to the Wine School of Philadelphia. Vince McMahon must not be happy with the school playing WWE's "underdog" card so effectively. (1/2*)

3 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. & CODY RHODES vs. MVP & MARK HENRY
WINNERS: Henry & MVP at 4:48. Just a match. Post-match was more important. (*1/2)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match
WINNER: Bourne via count-out at 4:20. WWE's answer to frustrated Bourne fans: here's a count-out win, now shut up. Miz vs. Swagger has potential, but we need to see where this mystery, loosely-defined championship challenger storyline is going. (*1/4)

5 -- SHEAMUS vs. JAMIE NOBLE
WINNER: Sheamus at 2:17. Double shot of Sheamus and Triple H linked up here. Fine intro for Sheamus to the Raw audience before he's worked into an actual program. No need to rush. (n/a)

6 -- BIG SHOW (w/Chris Jericho) vs. TRIPLE H (w/Shawn Michaels)
WINNER: Hunter at 14:04. Exciting conclusion with plenty of tricks and a ton of bodies flying everywhere to rile up the crowd and set up the big finish. It was one way to get a bunch of new faces in the main event situation, including one big moment for Evan Bourne. Kofi had a nice moment too before the big guns pulled out the FU, superkick, and Pedigree combo. Foreshadowing... (**1/4)

Post-match: Cena, Michaels, and Hunter celebrated in the ring. Busch and Logano then came out on stage and thanked everyone for letting them host the show tonight. He said they've been thinking all night about who should face Cena for the title at Survivor Series. They couldn't agree on it all (fitting the theme of them disagreeing on everything), so they found one person who put them all on the same page. Out came Hornswoggle, who was still wearing the DX gear. Announcers repeated the "cease and desist" order. Busch then announced a triple threat match: Cena vs. Michaels vs. Hunter at Survivor Series. Cena stared at Hunter, then Michaels, then Hunter, then Michaels. Michaels kind of stared into space. Hunter didn't know what to say. Cena did an "I dunno" reaction as they closed the show. All those fresh faces were a chance to get some new people in the main event situation before a tried and true, familiar main event for the next PPV.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 29 2009, 12:59 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 10-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36372.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. SHEAMUS

Basic exchanges to start things off, then Shelton excited the crowd by knocking Sheamus to the floor. He then landed a nice springboard moonsault on the floor that KO'ed Sheamus on the floor going to break with Shelton in control.

Back from break, Sheamus was in control after ramming Shelton into the ringpost on the floor. Announcers talked about Sheamus bailing ECW and Mathews took an opportunity to talk up the ECW brand as the place for "young, vibrant, and aggressive" young talent looking to make a name for themselves. Shelton walked into a powerslam at 7:00, then Sheamus went back to work on Shelton's neck and head and back. Shelton suddenly exploded with an overhead suplex on Sheamus off the ropes. Lots of young kids screaming at the top of their lungs and making an emotional investment in the outcome of the match. Both men came to their feet and exchanged haymakers before Shelton came flying off the ropes with a splash and made his full babyface comeback. Shelton then hit a German suplex with a bridge, but Sheamus grabbed the bottom rope for a rope break. Announcers talked up Shelton representing the ECW locker room against Sheamus, then, right on cue, Sheamus smashed Shelton with a bicycle kick to the head. Sheamus made the cover for the win. Afterward, Shelton was frustrated with himself for losing while Sheamus triumphantly left the ECW brand.

WINNER: Sheamus in 11:00. Good TV singles match. This feud had so much potential to carry through to the end of the year, as both men had good chemistry in their first long-form match on this show. Perhaps WWE will re-visit this down the road if they end up on the same brand. As for chemistry, I like the mix of Mathews and Saxton. Saxton needs some polish, but he's smooth, isn't over-bearing, and doesn't over-stay his welcome trying to enhance the match action. Good mix after hearing them call a match. (**1/4)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. YOSHI TATSU -- ECW Title match

Yoshi scored some early nearfalls to show that he meant business going after the title. Yoshi reversed a hold into a backslide for a close nearfall that sent Christian scurrying to his corner for a breather. Christian sold shock that Yoshi was close to winning the belt. They cut to break with Yoshi on the advantage.

Back from break, Christian was in control trying to slow down Yoshi. Christian then went up top, but Yoshi shoved him off the top rope to the floor below. Yoshi tried to follow with a splash, but Christian moved and Yoshi landed on the floor with the sell of a knee injury. Christian followed right up with a running splash off the top rope to drop Yoshi on the floor again. Christian then took Yoshi back into the ring and went to work on Yoshi with mat holds. Saxton talked about Yoshi trying to get a major victory with his friends and family watching back home in Japan.

Yoshi fought off Christian on the top rope, then came off the top with a spinning heel kick. One, two, kickout by Christian with the crowd popping for the believable nearfall. Yoshi then busted out a discus roaring elbow smash that Mathews reacted to. Yoshi with another pin for a two count. Christian tried to come back with the Killswitch, but Yoshi blocked. Christian then put Yosho on the middle rope and stood on his back in his signature move. Christian with a missile dropkick from the second rope, then he went up top for a top rope dropkick, but Yoshi caught Christian's legs and tried a jack-knife pin for another close two count. Yoshi tried to follow with his rolling kick strike, but Christian countered with a fallaway drop for a two count.

Christian took a deep breath after his nearfall and clapped up the audience. Christian called for the KS, but Yoshi blocked with a kick to the gut. Christian tried to come back with a sunset flip pin, but Yoshi nailed him with a kick strike and another two count. Yoshi begged for a three count to sell the nearfall. Yoshi wanted the end, but Christian ducked a roundhouse kick. Another block of the Killswitch, but Christian nailed his lean-back pendulum kick out of the corner followed by a European Uppercut from the second rope. Christian wanted the ending again and this time he dropped Yoshi with the Killswitch. Christian rolled Yoshi over and made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Christian in 17:00. Excellent, excellent TV match. Crowd was behind the underdog, but they still wanted Christian to win. Both men were even stronger babyfaces coming out of the match. Great, believable, well-placed nearfalls from both men. I highly recommend watching this match on the DVR or online if you missed the match. Yoshi came out of this looking like a star. (***3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 31 2009, 01:49 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36422.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. PRIMO COLON

Swagger with the early amateur holds that always seem to be just thrown out there instead of being part of Swagger actually trying to wear down Primo and take control for a few minutes. I'm not expecting Lou Thesz or Danny Hodge out there spending 15 minutes executing a hold then pausing then executing another hold, but Swagger seems to lose control of those holds early on that the crowd has been trained not to taken seriously. Crowd was hot for Primo tonight, though, and Swagger played a good heel feeding off their cheers to beat up on the lovable Primo. Swagger took a chinbreaker from Primo at 4:00, but Swagger came back with a lariat to the back of the head for a two count. Swagger tried to follow with a seated splash, but Primo moved. He then hit a flying Tatanka chop off a springboard to begin a full-fledged attack, but no three count. Primo tried to follow with a springboard cross-body, but Swagger blocked and nailed a big boot right to the face. Impact of the move took the wind out of the crowd, then Swagger dropped the gutwrench powerbomb for the pin and the win. Afterward, some of the defiant males in Buffalo cheered for Swagger's W. He then paraded around the ring in victory to make sure everyone knew about his win.

WINNER: Swagger in 6:00. Good match. Repeat was shorter than their previous Superstars singles match in August, but at the same level. No pun intended here, but Swagger has some swagger back after getting a rub being associated with Team Raw lately. There was just a different vibe to his character in this match, as if he carried himself more like a star and not a mid-carder who is stuck looking up at the glass ceiling. (*1/2)

2 -- KELLY KELLY vs. ALICIA FOX

Standard start with Alicia in control before Kelly made her comeback. Without Gail Kim in there to right the ship, the action fell apart during Kelly's comeback. Also, the result wasn't like last week for Kelly against Gail, as Alicia blocked Kelly's handspring elbow in the corner with her axe kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Alicia in 4:00. To recap the Raw Divas pecking order, it's Alicia, Kelly, and Gail Kim based on Kelly defeating Gail on last week's Superstars. Based on this logic, looks like Melina vs. Alicia for the Divas Title on the horizon. (1/2*)

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. TYLER REKS

Announcers drew attention to East Coast (Ryder) vs. West Coast (Reks) as Ryder took control early on in this one. We've seen this match-up before, which captures the repeat nature of the show this week. Reks made a comeback at 3:00 and delivered his "Ride The Wave" elbow drop for a two count. Crowd not quite at the recognition stage for Reks's signature move. Reks then missed with a corner attack and Ryder nailed the Zack Attack for the pin and the win. Ryder back in the win column after losing the #1 contender match to Yoshi Tatsu last week on ECW.

WINNER: Ryder in 5:00. Good win for Ryder, who looked like a star here. Reks should just happy to be on TV at this point until WWE figures out a consistent storyline for him. Match was fine with Ryder delivering hard-hitting offense to keep viewers interested. (*)

4 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG) & R-TRUTH vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH) & DR. MIKE KNOX

The two smallest men in the match, Tyson and JTG, started the match to set a quick pace for the action in the main event. Tyson then tagged in Dr. Knox, who entered and locked up with JTG, who didn't back down. Striker noted he didn't back down, but it's perhaps not wise. Grisham noted that Shad appears to have fully recovered from the flu. Enter shad to work on Knox, who missed with a clothesline and took a shoulder tackle, but Knox stayed on his feet. Knox then yanked Shad to the mat to begin working him over with HD's encouragement. Grisham called him an evil kinesiologist. At least he's not an evil dentist. Kane and Knox would make an interesting tag team, though. Knox threw Shad to the floor after an exchange and they cut to break.

A reversal here, as the babyface Shad was in control of the heel Knox back from break. HD then took control and Smith went to work on Shad with mat holds, including a Camel Clutch in center ring. Shad broke free, but Tyson tagged back in and landed a kick strike to Shad's back. Knox back in via tag at 11:00 as JTG tried to rally up for Shad. Knox had enough of Shad and knocked JTG off the apron, which gave Shad an opening to land a slam that put both men on the mat. Truth then tagged in for the first time in the match and did his dance routine that riled up the crowd. Action broke down as JTG tried to line up a splash on the floor, but Smith clotheslined him and threw him to the outside.

Back to Truth and Kidd, who traded nearfalls until Truth created movement with his spinning fist smash, the Lie Detector, for the pin and the win. Kids in the crowd then danced along with Truth's music to celebrate the win. Post-match: A typical scene with Cryme Tyme standing tall in the ring as Hart Dynasty complained and pointed fingers from the outside to close the show.

WINNERS: Truth & Cryme Tyme in 13:00. Good tag match. Nice mix of athleticism and size. At the end, though, there might have been different dance partners, but it was the same ending with Team Cryme Tyme finding another win over Team Hart Dynasty. At some point in this match, I pictured WWE bring back the Cruiserweight Title headed up by R-Truth, who looked like the top star in the match. WWE could have a nice division with Truth, Kidd, JTG, and the occasional appearances by Bourne and Chavo from the Raw brand. Establish the heritage of the belt with Rey Mysterio giving a rub to the title as a former CW champ, play some old-school WCW and Smackdown clips, and make it mean something again as an every-two-months PPV feature to give WWE fans an "X Division" change-of-pace worth paying money to see. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 31 2009, 02:01 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36419.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) TARA vs. ALISSA FLASH

They lock up. Tara transitions to a standing Arm Bar, but Flash shoves her to the mat. The crowd is fairly split. Flash charges, but Tara dodges and locks in a Tarantula. She comes back in with her Slingshot Leg Drop for two. Flash gets up firing with some quick strikes, connecting with a clothesline to the chest for two. The announcers acknowledge that Impact was filmed before the Hogan announcement, which is weird, since if they admit that the commentary was added after the fact it makes it confusing whenever they act surprised. In the ring, Tara catches Flash when she goes to the top rope and nails a Superplex. Both women get to their feet, but Tara is a bit quicker and hits a Fire(wo)man's Carry for two. She hits some clothesline and a Snap Suplex for two. Flash ducks an attempted Short Armed Clothesline and connects with a Pump Handle Drop for two. She wrenches Tara's back and stomps her head to the mat. Tara gets up and connects with a Spinning Sidewalk Slam out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Tara. Taz described the match as "not pretty" but effective.

After the match, Kong comes back and Implant Busters Tara into the still lying prone Flash. She mouthes to the camera that he's back.

(2) TEAM 3D vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS

The crowd is behind the Guns to start as the teams show each other respect. Since when are the Guns respectful? Devon takes Shelley down with a shoulder block to start. Shelley comes back with a spinning jump kick for two. Devon gets up charging; Shelley sidesteps, kicks Devon in the back, but then walks right into a Side Slam for two. Both men tag out. Ray wrenches Sabin's arm, than cinches in a wrist lock. Sabin flips out and starts kicking Ray's side. Ray catches a leg and catapults Sabin, but Sabin lands on the apron and comes back in with a Springboard Cross Body Block for two. Sabin comes off the ropes, and right into a huge Ura-Nage from Ray. Devon tags in and looks for a Gorilla Press, but Shelley comes in and clips his injured leg. Sabin tags out, and medics come check on him. A replay seems to show his head hitting the mat pretty hard on the Ura-Nage. Shelley works a leg lace on Devon, who tags out. Ray comes in, but Shelley catches him with a Superkick. He tags back out, and Shelley immediately goes to the Single Legged Crab. Devon pounds the mat, which the ref takes as a submission. Ray is not happy with that interpretation.

WINNERS: The Guns, by Montreal Screw Job.

(3) ERIC YOUNG (c) vs. BOBBY LASHLEY
Legends' Championship Match

I'm confident that this match will end cleanly. Are they making Young wrestle Lashley to make him seem more like a legend? Young starts things off with a shoulder block and a right hand. He celebrates, but Lashley is unfazed. He squishes EY with a T-Bone for two, so Young rolls to the outside. Lashley follows him out and whacks his head into the guard rail and the apron, then rolls Young into the ring. Steiner pops up wearing a shirt with a sketch of Mrs. Lashley in a bikini, and he nails Lashley from behind. He goes to taunt Lashley's wife. Lashley makes the save, but when he comes back in EY tries to take advantage with a rollup. Lashley gets up firing and squishes Young. He locks in the Dragon Sleeper, but Steiner (slowly) comes into the ring to hit Lashley in the back with a chair. The ref's right there, so that draws the bell.

WINNER: No contest.

Steiner locks in the Steiner Recliner on Lashley for a bit, then he and Young celebrate their triumph. Where was Kevin Nash? Won't he be annoyed?

(4) ODB & CHRISTY HEMME & HAMADA vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE

Sky attacks Christy, kicking her against the corner. She shoots Christy into the ropes, but lowers her head too earlier and gets her face driven into the mat. Christy tags in Hamada, but Sky slips away and makes the tag to Rayne. Hamada nails Rayne with an Ensuguri for two. She connects with a Body Slam, but when she goes to the top rope Von Erich distracts the ref while Sky shoves her off. Sky tags in and works over Hamada. A dropkick to a seated Hamada gets two. Lacey tags in, and she and Sky drive the back of Hamada's head into the turnbuckle. Rayne tags in. Thanks for playing, Lacey. Rayne goes for a bunch of covers. Sky tags in, but Hamada ducks below the double team and is able to get the tag to ODB. ODB pops Lacey off the apron, Fall Away Slams Sky, and Bronco Busters Rayne. She tags in Christy and goes to the outside to fend off Sky. Christy whiffs on an FFG. Rayne tags in Lacey, who hits what I think might go down as the world's stiffest Choke Slam for the win. I guess she's the new Rhaka Khan?

WINNERS: The Beautiful People.

Awesome Kong's music hits. ODB stands her ground in the ring, but she won't get the chance to meet Kong—Tara cuts Kong off. We have our TNA pull-apart brawl of the week. They should really get a corporate sponsor for that.

(5) ABYSS vs. DR. STEVIE

Dr. Stevie tries to ambush Abyss on his way to the ring, but Abyss is faster. He beats Dr Stevie down to the ring. Dr. Stevie comes back with some strikes, but Abyss no-sells them. He tosses Dr. Stevie from the ring, and follows him out to pound his head into the steel steps. Abyss goes to the outside, gets a trash can full of weapons, and tosses it onto Dr. Stevie in the ring. That's a good arm. He does it again with another can. He takes too long to get back though, so when he tries to charge, Dr. Stevie throws a chair into his head. Dr. Stevie follows up with a hockey stick to the knee. He then works over the leg. Abyss kicks him off, so Dr. Stevie goes for a Tornado DDT. Abyss throws him off. Dr. Stevie tries to connect with a Superkick, but Abyss catches his leg and hits him with the Shock Treatment for the win.

WINNER: Abyss.

After the match Dr. Stevie hits Abyss with a kendo stick and starts choking him with it. Foley's music hits. I guess he's a face this week. Foley signals that he wants the stick. Dr. Stevie, being a moron, gives it to him. Not surprisingly, Foley plasters Dr. Stevie with it. The crowd seems relieved to be able to cheer Foley again. Tenay points out that this just proves that Foley is "unpredictable", which is not quite the word I would have used.

(6) RHINO vs. MATT MORGAN

The crowd goes nuts for Morgan to start. Rhino hits a couple of quick punches, but runs right into a shoulder block. Morgan follows up with a throat thrust and his leap over neck-choke thing that I really hope he names soon. Rhino knocks him down as he comes back into the ring, and stomps him a couple of times on the outside. Morgan comes back into the ring, and Rhino chokes him against the ropes and does some stomping. The crowd tries to start dueling chants, but no one's willing to take the "let's go Rhino" part. Poor Rhino. He slams Morgan's head into the turnbuckle, but when he goes for a charge he only connects with Morgan's elbow. Morgan Splashes Rhino in the corner, lifts him up for a Hellevator, then decides that it's not time and just drops him. He goes for a Choke Slam, but Rhino fights out and connects with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Rhino goes for a Gore, but only gets a Carbon Footprint instead.

WINNER: Matt Morgan.

Rhino pounces after the match, hitting another Belly-to-Belly Suplex. This time the ensuing Gore connects. He sets up for another one when Hernandez's music hits. Rhino flees, but grabs a mic on his way out. He tells Hernandez and Morgan that only the strong survive in TNA, and no one's going to take him out. Hernandez raises Morgan's hand in the ring.

(7) KURT ANGLE vs. DESMOND WOLF
Street Fight?

Kurt attacks right at the bell, nailing Wolf with forearms and European Uppercuts. He beats him from ring post to ring post. He Stomps a Mudhole and Walks it Dry. He looks for a German Suplex, but Wolf grabs the ropes and creates some separation with a back elbow. Wolf connects with a European Uppercut of his own and another back elbow. Angle fires back and clotheslines Wolf out of the ring. He follows him out and slams Wolf's head into the steps, then the guard rail. Is it just me or are they doing that a lot this week? Wolf connects with another sudden back elbow and rams Angle into the rail. He rolls Kurt back into the ring and hits a couple of forearms to the throat. Wolf slaps Kurt in the face, which might not have been wise. Kurt comes back firing, but Wolf wrenches his arm so hard that Kurt drops to the mat. Wolf bounces off the ropes and goes for some big clothesline, but Angle ducks and connects with the trio of Germans. Angle drops the straps, but takes too long doing it. He turns around into the big lariat. The ref is thinking of calling the match, since Kurt isn't moving. Wolf again points out that he could end Kurt's career right now, then we fade out. Huh? So did he win the match? There was never a bell.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 31 2009, 12:54 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36443.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- JOHN MORRISON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

After some early chain wrestling, Ziggler took Morrison down, but Morrison flap-jacked him. I liked the leap-frog, which you don’t see very often these days for whatever reason. Ziggler mounted Morrison and punched away at him. Striker dropped some knowledge on the fans about the “core strength” of the wrestlers, mostly in the abdominal area. Ziggler slammed Morrison then kicked at him as they went to break about 3:30 into the match.

Ziggler dropped Morrison on the back of his head out of break. He slowed things down and showed his distinct disdain for Morrison. Morrison attempted a comeback, but Ziggler shot it down with a scoop slam, but couldn’t get the three. Counter by Morrison and a catapult attempt, but Dolph landed on the rope. Ziggler missed his attempt and Morrison landed the Flying Chuck kick for two, as Ziggler got a foot on the rope. Morrison went after Ziggler on the outside, but Morrison landed on the apron, where Ziggler tripped him up, Morrison landing hard on his back. Ziggler wheel-barrowed Morrison up and slammed him face-first on the announce table. He couldn’t make it back in for the ten-count.

WINNER: Ziggler, via count-out, at 10:05. Serviceable TV match, but nothing outstanding.

2- BETH PHOENIX vs. JENNY BROOKS

Brooks was billed from Elmira, NY. Striker said Brooks was the only one to beat Phoenix when Beth attended Notre Dame High-School in Buffalo. I am 99.9% sure that’s not true. Interestingly, they didn’t edit Tony Chimel giving the weight for Jenny Brooks, as they usually don’t do that for the women, and from where I sat, it appeared someone was editing Chimel’s announcing. So yeah, Beth just squashed Jenny here. Choke into a back-breaker after throwing her out of the ring. Glam Slam ended it.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 2:16.

3- ERIC ESCOBAR vs. MATT HARDY

Clothesline, but a missed elbow by Escobar. This is a re-match from Escobar’s debut two weeks ago. Bulldog out of the corner by Matt. Hardy went up for a moonsault, but Escobar stopped him. He was sent to the mat and Hardy hit the flip. He came up holding his knee, which slowed his cover, getting only two. Escobar smelled blood and went after Matt’s knee with leg-locks. “Let’s Go Hardy” chant got him back into the match. Escobar bodyslammed Hardy, forcing his legs to hit the ring ropes. A Twist of Fate, sans the twist (pretty much a Diamond Cutter), out of desperation, got Hardy the win.

WINNER: Hardy, at 3:21. Some more even-steven booking. Escobar could’ve used a strong win, but he lost in less than three-and-a-half.

4- C.M. PUNK vs. SCOTT ARMSTRONG

Punk charged at Armstrong in the corner and did some trash-talking. He shoved Armstrong as the crowd chanted for “Undertaker.” Armstrong fired back with three rights. No mention of his former life as a wrestler. Kick to the gut by Punk after a pause to take in Armstrong’s attack. Kick to the back, then he picked Scott up and gave him the GTS, not a pretty one by any means, for the win.

WINNER: Punk, at 2:05.

5- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KANE- WINNER GETS A SHOT AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT SURVIVOR SERIES

Powerslam by Kane for a quick two. After some back-and-forth, Kane’s leg strength overcame Jericho’s desire to lock in the Walls of Jericho. Striker actually referred to Jericho as “Lionheart” Chris Jericho. He got a running start and knocked Kane off the apron and into the ringside barriers. They went to break about 3:30 into the match.

Jericho laid the boots in on Kane out of break. He catapulted Kane throat-first into the bottom rope, getting a two on a pin attempt. Jericho attempted a bulldog, but Kane suplexed him down. Couple clotheslines by Kane, as the down-time in this match got me thinking how terribly uninterested I’d be in a Big Show vs. Undertaker vs. Kane Triple-Threat match. Enziguiri by Jericho after he dodged a clothesline. Springboard right into a right hand around the throat. Kane put Jericho down with a boot, garnering him a two. Codebreaker out of nowhere by Jericho, but he was too injured to make an immediate cover. He eventually made his way over there, getting only two. There’s the bulldog. Lionsault, but Kane put up his hand and grabbed him. Chokeslam by Kane, but Jericho was close to the edge of the ring and rolled to the floor. Kane picked up Jericho and put him in the ring, but it was too late- Jericho had recovered and kicked out. Jericho got out of a slam and shoved Kane into the buckle. He locked in the Walls, but Kane got out. As Jericho jawed with the ref, Kane caught him with an uppercut. He tried a top-rope clothesline, but Jericho crotched him. He went up for a suplex, to no avail. Kane came off the top but was greeted with a mid-air Codebreaker for the win.

WINNER: Jericho, at 14:34. The only real move to make here. Kane’s a veteran, but doesn’t belong in the title picture at this point.

Jericho celebrated at ringside as they went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 03 2009, 03:43 pm
WWE RAW Results: 11-2-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36486.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- THE MIZ vs. EVAN BOURNE- UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Miz started off with a knee-lift and continued to use the knee. Somewhere backstage, Triple H is nodding contentedly. Bourne sent Miz to the outside and came down with the double-knees on Miz. Side-roll by Bourne back in the ring for two. Miz came back and hung Bourne up chest-first on the top rope. As Miz had Bourne on the mat, Cole talked about reading Ozzy’s autobiography. Does anyone really think Ozzy actually wrote the book? Miz got Bourne up for a suplex, but Bourne kneed Miz in the head to break free. Crowd doesn’t seem to care about Miz, but they’re popping for Bourne. Bourne had Miz down on the mat and went for Air Bourne, but Miz moved and Bourne landed on his feet. Hip-toss into the corner by Miz, then the Skull-Crushing Finale for the finish.

WINNER: Miz, at 4:13. Solid enough four-minute TV match. Too bad to see Bourne take another loss though.

2- SHEAMUS vs. JAMIE NOBLE

Noble, like last week, didn’t get a TV entrance. He took Noble down immediately, then threw him into the turnbuckle. I wonder if Noble cut a pro-Patriots promo to the live crowd during the break. To the outside, where Sheamus threw Noble face-first into the ring post. Back in the ring, Sheamus stomped on Noble and appeared to try to rip Noble’s upper jaw from the rest of his face. Elbows to the nose and kicks to the gut as the crowd got restless. He landed his back-breaker finisher, and a beauty, but then hit the Pump kick. Pin, but Sheamus pulled Noble up at two. I’m disappointed the Uranage into a back-breaker isn’t his finisher anymore. Sheamus pounded away at Noble in the corner. The ref checked on him, then called for the bell.

WINNER: Sheamus, via ref stoppage, at 2:25.

After the match, he put Noble up on the top rope and continued to punch away at him, then kicked him to the floor. On the outside, Sheamus powerbombed Noble hard to the protective mats. Ouch. He sure made an impression tonight. Referees came out to check on Noble as the crowd chanted “you suck” at Sheamus. They even brought a stretcher down. After a replay, they put Noble on the back-board and strapped him in.

3- RANDY ORTON vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Orton circled Kofi, but Kingston did not back down. They traded slaps and Orton sent Kingston to the corner, pounding him down with fists. Crowd got into Kofi early and Kingston came back with an uppercut, then a high dropkick. Over the top went Orton and Kofi followed him, throwing him back into the ring. Legacy ran to ringside. That distracted Kofi, who low-bridged Orton to the outside and onto the others. He then dove through the ropes and onto them. Legacy re-grouped and surrounded the ring. Ozzy came on the Titan-Tron and said he knew this was going to happen, and Sharon turned it into a six-man tag. MVP and Mark Henry joined the action. The original match went less than three minutes. The six-man will start up next.

3- RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE vs. KOFI KINGSTON & MVP & MARK HENRY

I like them separately, but I have a hard time getting excited about the tandem of Henry and MVP. Kofi fought off pretty much all of Legacy as the show returned, match in progress. Kofi and MVP did both of their pet moves at the same time on a prone DiBiase for two. Henry tagged in and headbutted DiBiase. Teddy went low to the knee of Henry, then tagged Rhodes. Their double-team had little effect, as he clotheslined both men. Is the moniker “World’s Strongest Man” like the term “President,” where even if you’re no longer it, they still call you it, and not “former”? Because Henry was strongest man like 15 years ago. Anyway, MVP came in and took the brunt of Legacy’s punishment for a while. High dropkick by Rhodes after MVP fought out of a rest-hold. Standing dropkick from Orton for two. Orton trademark chin-lock as MVP’s partners tried to get the fans behind him. MVP with a clothesline and both men were down. Orton attacked Kofi before he could connect with MVP, and Orton subsequently dragged MVP to the heel corner. Tag into DiBiase, who was greeted with an overhead throw from Henry. Henry cleaned house until Orton went after the knee. He was going for the RKO, but Kofi dropkicked him. Rhodes to the top- he jumped into Henry’s arms, not showing much sagacity on that one. World’s Strongest Slam by Henry and it’s over.

WINNERS: Kingston, Henry and MVP, 6:49 shown (about 10:10 total, counting the Kingston vs. Orton match). Good way to put Kingston over without putting him over Orton.

4- DIVAS NUMBER ONE CONTENDER BATTLE ROYAL

It was the Bellas, Kelly Kelly, Eve, Gail Kim and Alicia Fox. Fox is the only heel? Melina was shown watching backstage. Kelly tried to dump one of the Bellas out, and Kim ended up being tossed about 1:30 into the match. Kim and Kelly seemed to have some words as Jack Swagger came out. Eve started throwing dropkicks and one of the Bellas went out, followed quickly by the other just under 2:00 in. Alicia, Eve and Kelly were the final three. Eve was thrown out by Fox when she was distracted by Swagger, about 2:10 in. Kelly did her handspring elbow in the corner, but Alicia caught her and threw her out.

WINNER: Fox, at 2:43. About as good as you’d expect when the only worker of the group was tossed out first.

5- JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. THE BIG SHOW- TRIPLE-THREAT MATCH

Big Show and Cena were fighting on the outside as we came back from break. Shawn Michaels did the reset back from the commercial. “Vintage DX!” screamed Triple H. Big Show again pulled Cena out of the ring and stomped on him. Jericho talked to Show in the ring and I guess they decided to double-team Cena. Cena of course fought back, but not for long. Hard chop to the chest of Cena. The champions continued double-teaming Cena. Back suplex by Jericho. Show whipped Jericho into Cena in the corner, landing a shoulder into his gut. Show missed a splash and Cena made his comeback against Jericho. But Jericho landed a Lionsault for two, as Show pulled him off. See though, there’s nothing at stake here, so why do Jericho and Big Show care which one of them gets the pin? Show got mad and threw Jericho out of the ring. Cena got caught in a chokeslam, but he got out and put Show on his back, collapsing in the process. Vader Bomb by Show missed. Cena shoulder-blocked Show out of the ring. Jericho came back in and got two of his own for good measure. Cena got Jericho up for the FU, but Show punched him straight in the face and Jericho pinned him. Yes, Jericho pinned Cena. There is a full moon tonight folks, so I guess that explains it.

WINNERS: Show and Jericho, at 7:13.

Jericho locked in the Walls of Jericho as Show was going to put Cena in his special hold, but DX tried to break it up. HBK was met with a right hand and Triple H lasted a bit longer ‘til he got hit with a Codebreaker. The tag champs posed together to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 05 2009, 01:38 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 11-3-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to not-so-complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36515.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

No report on the first match: William Regal defeated Goldust in a little over 4 minutes...

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

The opening bell sounded and Shelton took Zack to the mat with a rear takedown. Shelton followed with a punch strike and Ryder bailed to the outside to get a breather. Ryder then walked over to Rosa, Shelton followed, and Ryder punched Shelton to the mat. Back in the ring, Ryder went to work on Shelton and nailed a running boot to the face in the corner ala Samoa Joe. Shelton then came back with an overhead suplex and Ryder went to the apron. He started making eyes at Rosa, who tempted him with an application of lip gloss. Ryder, smitten, then turned around and took Pay Dirt from Shelton for the pin and the win. Rosa then with the announcement Shelton was the winner.

WINNER: Shelton Benjamin in 4:00. Multiple choice test - who was supposed to get over with this segment - (a) Shelton, (b) Ryder, (c) Rosa, or (d) None of the above. I'm leaning more toward Rosa. In any event, Shelton got a cop-out win, Ryder looked lame, Rosa showed personality, and this is an exact copy of the Raw mid-card storyline featuring Swagger, Bourne, and Miz. Really, seriously, really? (*)

3 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. LOGAN JONES

Bell sounded, they locked up, and Archer tossed Logan to the outside. Lance followed with a big kick to the chest and a hard slap to the face. Vance very calm and cool delivering power moves before landing a sweeping reverse DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Archer in 1:00. Archer is going to get over. He just has a tremendously different vibe than when he was going through the motions in going-nowhere storylines in TNA. This was a great debut. (n/a)

4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & YOSHI TATSU vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON & KOZLOV

Yoshi started things with Jackson and gained a surprising early advantage with kicks that Jackson couldn't keep up with. Jackson grunted in frustration, which Yoshi sold with a lack of understanding. Kozlov then tagged in and absorbed a few body kicks before ramming Yoshi into the corner. Jacklov began tagging in and out working over Yoshi with Jackson grunting his way through an offensive attack.

Yoshi finally escaped the heels and tagged in Christian at the top of the hour. Christian went after Kozlov, then knocked Jackson off the ring apron. Christian wanted a top rope move, but Kozlov caught him and tossed him down to the mat. Kozlov wanted a shoulderbreaker, but Christian slipped out and nailed a fallaway reverse DDT for a two count. Action broke down and the babyfaces dumped Jackson to the floor. Yoshi then nailed a plancha to the outside. Back in the ring, Kozlov gave Christian a fallaway slam, but missed with a corner attack. Christian followed with a Tornado DDT and called for the end. Christian wanted the Killswitch...and he connected on the first try. Christian rolled Kozlov over and scored the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Christian & Yoshi in 8:00. Fine tag match. Surprising to see Kozlov take a clean loss, though. Post-match was the story, though, with another beat down on Christian. Yoshi was apparently eaten by the ringside mat during the beating to follow... (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2009, 12:37 am
TNA Impact! Results: 11-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36579.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. WORLD ELITE (Global champion ERIC YOUNG & ROB TERRY)

Rob locked up with Storm to start things off, but Rob shoved him away. Tenay talked up TNA and Hulk Hogan being in the news - CNN, Jimmy Fallon, Howard Stern. Meanwhile, Terry flexed and nearly popped a pec. Tenay was handed a note: Styles vs. Daniels signed for tonight...and with special guest ref will be Samoa Joe. Back to the action where Roode launched Storm over the top rope onto Terry on the floor. Storm then rolled Terry back into the ring and Beer Money wanted the DWI, but Terry slipped out and dropped Roode face-first on the mat. Young then tried to KO Roode with the title belt, but Roode ducked and Terry ate the belt. Roode then made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 5:00. Match was just there to fill TV time before the "intricate TNA booking details" were fleshed out in the post-match. (*)

2 -- DESMOND WOLFE vs. CODY DEANER

Bell rang, Nigel landed the Lariat, and Wolfe scored the pin. Angle said Wolfe damaged his larynx and he basically has a pinched nerve running down his arm. Angle said this guy "got his attention," but he doesn't have his respect yet. Angle gave a slight cough to sell the attack. (This became comical over time.) Angle said he wasn't really ready for anything like what Wolfe gave him. Wolfe took the mic as refs checked on Deaner. He told everyone to take a good look at that Muppet in the ring. Angle chimed in that he was in Deaner's position last week. He sounded as if he was on a 1960s NASA phone line communicating from the moon. Wolfe picked up his promo that Angle should be called Mr. Mangled now. "Keep talking, Desmond *cough*," Angle interjected via the phone line. Angle's commentary was interjected over Wolfe's promo. "I'm glad to have it, Desmond, *cough*," Angle said. Wolfe said he's hungry for Angle's blood, like a wolf. He took his shades off for good measure, then put them back on. "Well, he said his piece *cough*," Angle said. Tenay announced Angle vs. Wolfe at the PPV.

WINNER: Wolfe in 0:10. Good squash for Wolfe and a great promo. Unfortunately, TNA interjected an unintentionally comedic phone call from Angle. Angle didn't do anything wrong other than sounding progressively silly his cough to go with the horrible production. Sounded like one of my podcasts from 2005 using a $20 mic from Circuit City. (n/a)

3 -- TARA vs. HAMADA

Nice back-and-forth match to start with. Hamada really could be marketed as a unique women's wrestler worth building the Knockouts Division brand around. Tara, as well, with her name-brand value from WWE. At the end of the match, Hamada went for a top rope moonsault, but Tara moved out of the way. Tara then hit the Widow's Peak on Hamada for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Awesome Kong came stomping out to the ring, but the comical Security stood in her way. Tara then landed a plancha on the floor and another fight broke out ringside, this time between Tara and Kong. Looks like we have a PPV match set for Turning Point. The cameras cut back and forth between Kong and Tara to show their anger with each other to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Tara in 4:00. Good Knockouts match with a clean finish. Tara-Kong could be a show-stealing match on the undercard of the Turning Point PPV. (*1/2)

4 -- HOMICIDE vs. BOBBY LASHLEY

Tenay had something in his ear. "That's going to be tonight?" he asked the mystery man in his ear. Tenay said Styles vs. Daniels is a go for tonight. Lashley finished off Homicide with a lift-up chokeslam for the pin and the win. Post-match: Homicide jumped Lashley from behind and tried to use a boot as a weapon, but Lashley put him in the air for a press slam. Steiner then appeared on the video screen trying to corner Krystal. After sexually harassing Krystal, Steiner chased down Krystal, who was saved by Lashley. A fight broke out backstage with Lashley beating down Steiner until the Guns, Lethal (out of character), and Simon Diamond tried to separate Lashley and Steiner.

WINNER: Lashley in 2:00. Fine little enhancement match for Lashley, who still doesn't exude any wrestling personality. Steiner has plenty of personality, which is apparently why they paired them up for Lashley to get a little rub from Steiner's character. Lashley vs. Steiner at the PPV ought to be a doozy.

5 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. TAYLOR WILDE

Rayne, wearing fishnets and a revealing top, mounted Wilde early on, apparently channeling her inner Jenna Morasca. Taylor then finished her off moments later for a very short match victory. Post-match: the rest of the Beautiful People ran to the ring and jumped Taylor. Sarita made the save for Taylor, but the BPs held them down after a brief skirmish. Eventually, ODB ran to the ring and made the save for the tag champs. BPs bailed to the outside to yell at the trio they'll face at the PPV to close the segment.

WINNER: Taylor Wilde in 2:00. Match was inconsequential and was merely a vehicle to set up the post-match to promote the PPV six-Knockout tag match. (n/a)

6 -- TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS -- Samoa Joe special referee -- non-title match

TNA didn't give the audience enough time to really prepare for the match after the false start in the first hour. Too much happened before this, so the first few minutes were just there before Daniels settled into a rear chinlock. Joe, of note, is wearing purple latext gloves that were apparently found in the household items aisle at the grocery store before the show. I get that Joe is trying to be like an MMA ref wearing latex gloves, but no other ref in TNA wears them, so it seems silly like Slick Johnson wearing soccer referee socks. At 4:00, Daniels started arguing with Joe, who told Daniels to focus on the match. Styles then made a full comeback and wanted a springboard fist smash, but Daniels blocked mid-air and both men collapsed to the mat. Of note, girls in the Impact Zone screaming as if Evan Bourne is wrestling. Styles has that John Cena/Evan Bourne factor going for him. Styles then finished off Daniels with the Styles Clash and pinned him clean in the ring.

Post-match: Joe presented Styles with the title belt and sold respect for Styles. Styles wasn't sold on Joe trying to act trustworthy. Joe then handed over the belt and raised Styles's arm. He left the ring with everything seeming to be cool, but then Joe snuck back into the ring and slapped on the rear naked choke to choke the life out of Styles. Joe grabbed the title belt and stood over Styles and Daniels to close the segment.

WINNER: Styles in 6:00. Fine singles match between Styles and Daniels, but, again, the match was a vehicle to lead to the post-match. TNA is finally presenting Joe's character accurately as a strong heel assassin with him clearly a strong threat to Styles's title. Good deck-stacking against Styles, although Styles needs to look strong and not gullible at some point as the champ. (*1/2)

7 -- TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. MATT MORGAN & HERNANDEZ

Bell sounded as Tenay and Taz talked up Hulk Hogan coming to TNA. Tenay said they don't know what it means for the "youth" on the roster, which they hope to clear up once Hogan's role is more defined. Tenay plugged next week: a wrestling legend will answer Lethal's challenge, Dr. Stevie vs. Abyss, and Super Dave Osborne on the show. Based on those Spike previews for Super Dave's return to TV, he appears to be on life support. Spike trying to get one last run out of the glorified stuntman. The four big men did some stuff in the ring as Taz cracked himself up with a stream of jokes and one-liners. At 3:00, Devon sold a knee injury after attempting a double axehandle on Hernandez. Hern took advantage by going to work on the knee with mat holds.

Rhino then came to ringside and started talking to Ray, who was on the apron. Morgan slipped into the ring and dropkicked Devon while Ray told Rhino to get lost. Rhino and Ray continued to argue as Rhino told Ray to take a chair. "Take tha pen! I insist, take tha pen!" Subtle Seinfeld reference there. Ray eventually ran Rhino off, but Devon continued to take a beating. The chair loomed in the corner after Rhino left it ringside, however. Morgan then came into the ring and Ray suddenly snapped when he grabbed the chair and smashed Morgan across the back to cause a DQ. Ray then landed a chair shot to Hernandez's forehead. Of course, a chair shot to the head on Hernandez delivered by Ray. Rhino entered the ring and hugged Ray, who sold disgust with Rhino taking advantage of his conflicted state of mind. Rhino then Gored Hernandez and Morgan to finish them off. Rhino then took Ray and Devon by the hands and raised their arms in Rhino's version of victory. TNA closed with a shot of Ray leaning on the top rope selling confliction. "What have we just seen here?" Tenay asked.

WINNERS: Morgan & Hernandez via DQ in 6:00 long minutes. Again, match was a vehicle to the post-match activity that was the "real story" of the interaction here. I don't even know why TNA has matches on TV because they don't mean anything. Coincidentally, TNA weekly waters down the exact wrestling product they want people to spend $30 on when they have monthly PPVs. It's just hilarious. Then again, when you have a less-than-interesting main event with four big men dragging themselves around the ring, perhaps it's best to distract the audience from the wrestling occurring in the ring. (1/2*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2009, 12:38 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-5-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36582.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Santino started on the offensive with his comedy offensive as the announcers tried to establish Chavo's credibility coming from the Guerrero family despite being made sport by Hornswoggle the past several weeks...and seemingly months. Chavo then came back with a rolling suplex that nearly dropped Santino on his beck. Santino kicked out of a pin attempt, then Santino came back with a backslide for a two count, but Chavo answered with a dropkick for a two count. Santino teased a comeback, but Chavo knocked him down to the mat and began toying with him. Chavo took his team taunting Santino, who finally had enough of Chavo. Santino did his cobra hand signal into a punch for the kids. He then attempted his comedic salute-the-troops diving headbutt that Chavo moved out of the way of. Chavo then put the boots to Santino and teased going up top. Chavo sold that he changed his mind and went for a mat hold, but Santino surprised him with a small package pin for the win. Afterward, Santino did his marching band salute while Chavo sold shock he lost again.

WINNER: Santino in 6:00. Fine opening match. Focus was on the happenings inside the ring with Chavo being presented as a less-than-credible heel to create some interest in who would win between the "less-than-credible heel with a strong wrestling background" and the "likable, comedy babyface." (*1/4)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. PRIMO

Primo employed a different strategy to start things off by avoiding Swagger's amateur holds and power offense early on. Swagger then took a head scissors, but blocked a corner attack by ramming Primo back-first into the corner turnbuckle. Swagger followed with right hand strikes before putting a boot in Primo's throat. Swagger followed with his running Vader Bomb, then a second one. Swagger intense and fired up. Put the man in a main event situation. Swagger then put Primo on the mat and stretched him with a neck-twist/back-wrench/abdominal-stretch hold. Swagger kept the hold locked in for a while before breaking it himself to inflict more punishment. Primo shook off Swagger's offense at 4:00, then came back with an aerial attack. Primo's comeback was short-lived, though, as Swagger caught Primo off the ropes in position for the gutwrench powerbomb and the pin for the win. Afterward, Swagger ran around the ring in victory before "popping his collar" to the crowd. Swagger remains undefeated after making his vow to run through 2009 without a loss.

WINNER: Swagger in 5:00. Good, intense display from Swagger, who apparently listened to Jim Ross's evaluation last week to "bring it" every time he's given a TV match opportunity. Primo, meanwhile, is being presented as Raw's table scraps on a regular basis. (*)

3 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. TYLER REKS

Katie helped out Paul early in the match, then Burchill went to work on Reks with control of the action. Reks made his obligatory comeback, then the ref instructed Reks to back off and allow Burchill to recover if he's injured. It was an obvious trap, though, and Burchill finished off Reks with his jackhammer suplex for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Burchill in 3:00. Match was there to promote Burchill. Reks continues to receive TV time on the D show, but it's not ample enough to develop a personality for his character. Apparently patience is a virtue waiting for Reks to get enough exposure for WWE to do something with him. (1/2*)

4 -- Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. FINLAY

Two old-school guys started with a slapfest and Finlay shot Jericho a look like, "You're kidding, right?" Finlay then shoved Jericho's face into the corner and Jericho begged off. Finlay then smashed Jericho with an uppercut and aggressively put him on the mat before Jericho responded with an aggressive takedown. The match moved to the floor where Finlay caught Jericho inside the ring apron and ring banner in his classic move. They cut to break with Jericho holding onto the banner and Finlay in control. Great opening three minutes.

Back from break, Finlay was posing for a picture with Jericho locking him in a chinlock. Camera was zoomed in tight on the gap in Finlay's teeth, which should make for an interesting snapshot. Jericho worked over Finlay for a few minutes before Finlay came back with a kick strike. Jericho followed with a kick strike of his own before landing a Samoa Joe-style flying sentaun splash for a two count. Finlay then came back at 11:00 with a full comeback including the Rolling Hills drop as one woman in the crowd near an arena mic screamed with delight as Finlay scored a nearfall. Crowd was hot for the anticipated finish as Jericho teased the Walls of Jericho. This woman was going nuts screaming for Finlay to break the ropes, which he eventually did. Finlay then teased the Celtic Cross, but Jericho grabbed the ropes to block. Jericho then nailed the codebreaker out of nowhere. He slowly made his way over to Finlay to make the cover for the win. And the woman kept shrieking. Jericho had his hand raised in victory as they rolled a replay of the high points in the match. They closed the show with Jericho holding up the Unified tag titles with a heelish look on his face.

WINNER: Jericho in 14:00. Excellent TV match for Superstars. I'd like to see a few more rounds of Jericho and Finlay bringing back old-school WCW TV. Finlay is really under-utilized, in my estimation, especially when he's matched up with a wrestler who can take some punishment and have an aggressive match without anyone complaining about someone working stiff. Finlay brings good, old-school pro wrestling to the table that keeps viewers locked in if they want to see scripted, believable competition with one guy trying to prove he's tougher or the better wrestler than the other guy. I thoroughly enjoyed this main event. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2009, 03:17 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-6-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36599.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- DOLPH ZIGGLER & THE HART DYNASTY vs. JOHN MORRISON & CRYME TYME

They aired clips of Morrison on “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” Kidd and Morrison traded offense to start and Morrison came up holding his ribs, after what happened between him and Ziggler last week. As Kidd took a break in his corner, the show went to break.

Ziggler had JTG in a chin-lock out of break. D.H. Smith interfered to take JTG down as Natalya was distracting the ref. Striker called Smith, “the baby bull.” They began to isolate and work over JTG, as in every previous Cryme Tyme vs. Hart Dynasty match in the history of man. Necktie back-breaker by JTG and both men were down, but Dolph Ziggler was able to make the tag. Morrison tagged in as well and tagged Kidd with rights and a clothesline. David Hart Smith got Morrison up for a running powerslam, but Morrison got out and gave him a Flying Chuck. He had to fight off Ziggler and tagged out to Shad. It was his first entrance into the match. Smith sold an elbow weirdly, then took on in the corner from Shad. Blind tag made to Ziggler, and as Shad got ready to finish Smith, Ziggler Zig-Zagged Shad for the finish.

WINNERS: Ziggler & The Hart Dynasty, at 8:50. Just a way to continue to build Ziggler up for a re-match against Morrison, without having him get a clean victory over someone of Morrison’s stature.

2- BETH PHOENIX vs. BRITTANY CARTER

No weight (or hometown) for the jobber this week. Striker said Carter had an extensive background in dance. Beth picked Carter up and drove her back-first into the turnbuckle. Then the opposite one. One-armed pick-up and a back-breaker. Beth dragged Carter around by her hair, then gave her a back-breaker after a bit of a spin. Glam Slam finished it.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 1:56. Crowd got into late thanks to Beth’s impressive move-set.

3- DREW MCINTYRE vs. JIMMY WANG YANG

Yang’s first appearance on the show in quite some time. As Yang went to the middle rope to salute his fans and do his lasso hand signal, Drew attacked him from behind and knocked him to the floor. McIntyre got the mic after disposing of Yang. He said this party can not even begin to get started until he gets some competition worthy of a future World Champion. Yang got in the ring as McIntyre started leaving. Yang insisted the ref ring the bell and he did. McIntyre heard it as he was walking up the ramp and came back to the ring. Yang caught him off-guard with some kicks, but McIntyre caught one and clotheslined him down. He pelted Yang with lefts and rights on the mat, then hit him with what Striker referred to as a Kobashi DDT for the win.

WINNER: McIntyre, at :47.

4- REY MYSTERIO vs. MIKE KNOX

Striker intimated that all Knox does is sit up in his cabin in the mountains in Arizona and read books on the human anatomy. This was billed by the announcers as a match to prepare Rey for his one-on-one contest with Batista. Knox got out of a 619 early and Knox gave him a cross-body on the outside. Lateral press inside the ring, but Rey kicked out at two. Knox sent Rey chest-first hard into the buckle. Bearhug by Knox- Rey got out, but Knox stayed on offense. Abdominal stretch by the mountain man. Rey fought back with some of his signature offense, including a bulldog for two. Seated senton, but he couldn’t capitalize as Knox clotheslined him for a near-fall. Shoulder in the corner missed and Rey set him up for th 619. It connected and was successfully followed up by a springboard splash for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 7:15. Good enough win for Rey, but sadly, Knox hasn’t meant much the last few months.

5- C.M. PUNK vs. R-TRUTH

Scott Armstrong was the referee for the match. Shoulder tackle by Truth. Striker demanded Grisham prove there was a conspiracy. “As a teacher, I demand that you prove your work.” I think he’s my idol. Truth and Punk traded ground attacks and reversals. After a headbutt, Punk hit the ropes, only to be met with a hip-toss. Truth took him to ringside, where he flew onto Punk over the top (almost hitting his head on the floor in the process). Match went to break a little under 3:00 in.

Grisham, upon return from break, noted that this is the first time these two men have squared off in singles competition. Punk kept Truth grounded and really stretched him. Punk clapped for himself, taunting the fans. Truth began to come back, but ran right into a leg lariat for a two-count. Punk was a bit cheesed off at what he perceived was a slow count from Armstrong. He demanded Armstrong count faster. Because he was distracted, Truth rolled him up for, yes, a fast three-count from the referee.

WINNER: Truth, at 10:30. Too bad this win isn’t going to mean what it should for Truth, since the story is Punk being upset and things unraveling around him. In the end, it really helps neither man.

6- MATT HARDY vs. BATISTA

Matt fought out of the corner against Batista, but Batista nearly took his head off with a clothesline. Probably a 0.7 on the Desmond Wolfe scale of clothesline bad-assery. Batista did some choking of Hardy on the middle rope, then missed a corner charge. Hardy didn’t have the muscle to roll him up (thanks to Batista hanging on to the top rope), and the Animal was able to come out on top in that battle. Batista was having his way with Hardy, as they went to break about 3:10 into the contest.

Camel Clutch applied by Batista out of break. He was really working over the back of the elder Hardy brother. Striker called Matt “the Sensei of Mattitude.” Vince must not be on the headsets during this one, based on what Striker has gotten away with tonight. Body-scissors by Batista. Crowd was kind of sitting on their hands at this point. Matt was able to fight away, but Batista hammered him wiht a forearm to the back. Matt wiggled out and landed a version of a neck-breaker. Both men slowly got to their feet, where Batista was met with a boot from Matt. Hardy went low, then pulled out a DDT. Moonsault by Hardy but Batista moved- not far, as Hardy’s face and chest still hit Batista’s legs. Twist of Fate (Grisham proclaimed “that’s gonna do it!,” so you knew it wouldn’t) and sure enough, Batista grabbed the bottom rope. He came back with a spinebuster and choked Matt with his boot. On the outside, he threw Hardy into the barricade, then into the announce table. He took out the monitor from the announce desk, and hit Hardy in the back of the head with it. DQ time, and Striker referred to it as “a foreign object some would call it, an international object....”

WINNER: Hardy, via DQ, at 13:39. Batista as a heel does not make for a great match. Most of it was keeping Matt on the mat.

After the bell sounded, Batista took Hardy into the ring, took his elbowpads off, and set up for a Batista Bomb. Instead, he just shoved him off. After a replay, the camera stayed on Batista as he went up the ramp and did one final yell to close things out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 11 2009, 01:49 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-9-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36654.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY (w/Gail Kim) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/Jillian Hall)

Some early trash-talking led to Kelly taking it to Fox. Melina was shown backstage taking a good look at the #1 contender to her title. At the end, Kelly wanted her Fameasser finisher, but Alicia kinda sorta kicked out. Awkward spot that could have used some help in post-production, if possible. Alicia then scored the win moments later and celebrated with Jillian.

WINNER: Alicia Fox in 3:00. Basic divas match. Another example Kelly and Fox aren't exactly the two best workers on the Raw divas roster. (1/2*)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. ENGLISHMAN

Sheamus quickly rag-dolled the enhancement talent, who tried to fire off a kick in the corner, but Sheamus ran him over with a sledgehammer blow. Sheamus landed repeated fist smashes to the chest before finishing him off with his uranage backbreaker. Sheamus wasn't done, though, as he landed a bicycle kick. Sheamus then peered around the arena with his sinister eyes before taking the man to the corner for a running Outsider's Edge. Sheamus made the pin - with a forearm to the face for added pain - for the win to put an end to the match. "Domination by Sheamus," Lawler said. Sounds like a cologne product.

WINNER: Sheamus in 2:00. Quick, effective squash to continue enhancing Sheamus in Week 3 on Raw. Good work. (n/a)

3 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger was aggressive early on blasting Bourne around the ring. Bourne plays a good ragdoll babyface ala Rey Mysterio. Swagger followed with a running Vader Bomb out of the corner before doing some Scott Steiner-style push-ups to mock Bourne. Swagger then stretched Bourne on the mat with a knee to the back before tossing Bourne into the corner to wear him down. Swagger tried a running shoulder tackle, but Bourne blocked and landed a splash to the back from the second rope for his first offense of the match. Bourne then kicked Swagger in the knee, but Swagger came back with right hand strikes to the head. Swagger tried to throw Bourne into the air, but Bourne landed knees-first on Swagger's shoulders to take him to the mat. Nice spot.

Suddenly, Miz's music hit and U.S. champ Miz walked out to ringside to take a closer look at the action. Swagger showed off his work to Miz, then Bourne blocked a suplex, landed a kick strike, and went up top. Bourne connected with the Shooting Star Press and yes, Bourne scored the pin on Swagger to end the 2009 winning streak. Of course, announcers talked up Bourne scoring a "huge upset" win. Miz smirked on the outside, then took a mic and bragged to Swagger that's why he's the Team Captain.

WINNER: Bourne in 5:00. Good five-minute match. Swagger had plenty of offense early on to look strong before taking the loss thanks to Miz's outside distraction. WWE really plays up that underdog status for Bourne to the point of annoyance, as if he's not capable of winning a match without help. On the other side of the coin, Miz and Swagger have the start of a decent program, but it's difficult to buy into this turning into anything of substance since WWE doesn't have a track record of establishing important mid-card programs. (*1/2)

4 -- MARK HENRY (w/Kofi Kingston and MVP) vs. RANDY ORTON (w/Legacy)

Match started in progress with Henry squeezing Orton with a bear hug. Orton then blocked a corner attack and put Henry on the mat to begin the Orton Stomp attack. Henry got a second wind and sent Orton to the corner where he landed successive headbutts that wobbled Orton. MVP told Henry to finish him off, but Orton suddenly struck with the RKO out of nowhere for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Cody and Ted gleefully clapped it up while Kofi paced the sidelines with his hands on his hips. Kofi checked on Henry in the ring, then Orton snuck back into the ring. Orton slapped Kofi, but Kofi punched him right back and Orton rolled to the outside. Legacy held Orton back as Orton went IED wanting another piece of Kofi. Camera with heavy focus on Orton and Kofi, who told Orton to come get a piece of him. Orton just huffed and puffed on the outside.

WINNER: Orton in 5:00. Right finish with Orton winning. Orton has consistently been in PPV main events for five years, so it wouldn't make sense to knock him down a peg if they're going to elevate Kofi in this program. Good focus in the post-match with Kofi and Orton on the back-and-forth camera shots. (*)

5 -- RICKY HATTON vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Chavo ducked out of the ring early on to avoid Hatton's punches. Hatton started jabbing Chavo with left hands, but Chavo ducked to the corner. Chavo bailed again to keep stalling in order to drag this out. Chavo went to the legs for a takedown for the "MMA" portion of the match. Chavo declared himself the victor and the announcers said Chavo celebrated pre-maturely. Chavo suddenly busted out a kick strike that gave Chavo a brief upperhand, which shocked the crowd. Chavo went for a waistlock takedown, but Hatton spun out and blasted Chavo across the right temple. Chavo staggered to his feet and sold pain, but collapsed to the mat for a ten count to take the loss. Hatton then celebrated with the fans ringside on the way out.

WINNER: Hatton in 3:00. Chavo played a good heel here. I was shocked Chavo got any offense in here. The crowd was equally shocked. Hatton's punch looked good and sounded good with some post-production sound enhancement. Still, I'm shocked Hatton gave Chavo any offense with WWE having control over how this went down. (n/a)

6 -- Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW vs. DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H)

Cena was obviously put on commentary here to do damage control on the three-way title match hype. DX took control in the early going and Hunter knocked Jericho to the outside as they cut to break.

Back from break, Shawn Michaels was taking a beating at the hands of Big Show. Jericho and Show started tagging in working over Michaels as Cole and Cena mixed commentary on his triple threat and the Jericho-Show-Taker triple threat at Survivor Series. Hunter eventually took a tag at 7:00 and worked over Show, but Show back-dropped out of a Pedigree and speared Hunter clear across the ring. Show then went to work on Hunter's mid-section with body blows. Jericho then came in and targeted the stomach as well. Cole and Cena filled time asking if DX will implode at Survivor Series. Cena said there will be an issue where DX has to decide whether to work together or against each other in the name of the WWE Title.

Hunter came back with a spinebuster at 12:00 and Michaels began shouting for a hot tag. Camera kept cutting to a shot of Cena hyping the Survivor Series match and whether DX will focus on Cena to eliminate him. Michaels got his hot tag and cleaned house on Jericho before going up top. Michaels executed the "vintage" elbow drop to the heart on Jericho before starting to tune up the band. Jericho ducked, then teased the Walls of Jericho, but Jericho flipped him away. Show then sandwiched Michaels and Jericho. Michaels stumbled out of the corner and Show went for a Big Punch, but HBK ducked and Jericho ate the punch. Jericho collapsed to the mat like a tree in the woods. Tease of whether Michaels or Hunter will accidentally KO the other to give Cena the win. Also, tease of more dissension between Jericho and Show leading to the PPV. Anyways, Hunter cleared Show out of the ring, then Michaels covered Jericho's lifeless body for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: DX in 13:00. The match came across like a standard house show match. At the end, the heels have egg on their faces and the crowd goes home happy with the babyface team in the winner's circle. Considering these guys are on a two-week tour, there was no incentive to "go all out" for a TV taping in the middle of the tour. Cena did a fine job on commentary doing damage control for the PPV hype. He didn't convince anyone to buy the PPV because no one is buying dissension in DX, but at least he gave viewers something to think about, which is more than WWE has done these three weeks leading to the PPV. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 12 2009, 10:22 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 11-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36680.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GOLDUST vs. PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea)

Burchill worked heel despite being in his home country. Crowd didn't appreciate Burchill's heel work on the popular Goldust. Announcers talked up Burchill vs. Helms on next week's ECW as Goldust fired up with a comeback including the drop-down uppercut and a series of clothesline. At 4:00, Hurricane Helms's music hit and he started running around the ring to distract Burchill. Burchill then walked into the Final Cut suplex from Goldust to give Goldy the win. On the outside, Helms smiled and mocked Burchill in the Bart Simpson era of babyfaces acting like heels. "Next week!" Burchill shouted.

WINNER: Goldust in 5:00. Slow, plodding, methodical match. Announcers did a fine job of building up Helms vs. Burchill on next week's show. (1/2*)

2 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. JASON BLACKWELL

Vance is intense. That's the marketing. Vance opened with a round of hard clothesline, then Jason fired off a right hand that drew a quick cheer from the crowd. Archer looked around the crowd mockingly looking for approval, then he smirked and finished off JB with his finisher for the win. Post-match: Vance stared a hole into the hard camera with a sideways "intense" look. No reaction for Vance from the crowd, though, as WWE is slowly establishing who Vance is.

WINNER: Vance in 2:00. Squash to keep building up young Archer. Just fine. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- ECW Title match

I liked Saxton's early commentary suggesting Christian was given a rough time in England going through customs at the airport and checking into his hotel, suggesting a stacked deck against Christian in Regal's home country. After an early feeling out process, the show faded to commercial with the wrestlers standing off across the ring from each other.

Back from break, Christian was the aggressor with a flurry of offense before going up top and being crotched up top by Regal. Both men battled up top for a few moments before Regal executed a double underhook suplex from the top that took the life out of both men. And back to another commercial break. Enter sarcasm - should have just stuck a commercial break in the middle of Archer's match.

Back from break, Regal tried stretching out Christian on the mat to make him tap out, but Christian fought back after avoiding several pin and submission attempts. Christian then went up top, but Regal shoved him off the top rope to the floor. Ref began a ten count, but Christian re-entered the ring and punched Regal on the apron before landing a missile dropkick.

Christian made his full comeback at the top of the hour and scored a close nearfall following another missile dropkick. Christian warmed up the Killswitch, but Regal avoided and tried the Knee Trembler, only to have Christian avoid it. Regal then hit a lighter knee strike and Christian kicked out. Christian tried to come back with the Killswitch, but Regal countered with the Regal Stretch. Christian teased reaching for the bottom rope while also teasing tapping out, then Christian elbowed out of Regal's hold. Christian then came back with a running dropkick and went to the second rope sucking air to land a leaping European Uppercut. Christian wanted the Killswitch again, but Regal countered with a rolling t-bone suplex. Regal then measured Christian for the Knee Trembler, but Christian moved, kicked Regal in the chest, and nailed the Killswitch in center ring for the pin and the win. After the announcers recapped how it all went down, Christian celebrated with the belt to close the show.

WINNER: Christian in 24:00 to retain the ECW Title. Good TV match. Match didn't move out of second gear and wasn't as exciting as Christian vs. Yoshi two weeks ago, but this was still a good, fundamentally sound wrestling match with two real pros in the ring. Christian is being built up as a very strong ECW champ after running through all of the potential contenders.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 14 2009, 12:35 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 11-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36725.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) ABYSS vs. DR. STEVIE (w/DAFFNEY)

If Abyss pins Dr. Stevie, Dr. Stevie is gone from TNA. Abyss hits a Big Boot for a two count, then a quick roll-up for another two. He takes Dr. Stevie up for a Shock Treatment, but Dr. Stevie slips out and clips his legs. Dr. Stevie starts working Abyss's knee, hits a Leg Drop, then follows up with an Elbow Drop that barely gets two. A Superkick gets a more respectable two count. Dr. Stevie pounds on Abyss, but takes too long trash talking and gets goozled. He slips out and comes off the ropes, right into a Black Hole Slam for 1…2…lights out? The lights are out for a few seconds, and when they come back on Abyss is laying. Dr. Stevie rolls into the cover for the win.

WINNER: Dr. Stevie in 3 minutes.

(2) ALISSA FLASH vs. TRACI BROOKS

Traci shoves Flash to start, and they lock up. The crowd is behind Flash, who forces Traci into the corner and chokes her with her boot. Traci tries to create some distance, but Alissa hits her and connects with a couple of arm wrenches to what we're told is a handicapped right arm. A Shoulder Breaker to the right arm gets two. Flash hits a Flatliner, bangs the arm a bit, then locks in an arm bar that looks like a Crossface without the crossface, if that makes sense. Traci taps.

Winner: Alissa Flash in 2 minutes.

(3) JAY LETHAL vs. JIM "THE ANVIL" NEIDHART

Neidhart hits a big right hand, followed by a Back Body Drop. Lethal dodges a charge in the corner and comes back with a Double Sledge off the top rope. The crowd is going nuts for The Anvil. Neidhart gets up and Lethal works some jabs. When Lethal comes off the ropes he runs right into a clothesline. Somehow Lethal gets up first and leaps to the outside with for a Guillotine Choke. Lethal hits a running back elbow, but whiffs on a second and walks right into a Power Slam for the kill. That didn't take long.

WINNER: Jim Neidhart in 2 minutes. I'm not sure where they're going with this booking, but as long as it's anything other than an outright burying of Lethal, he could probably use some new material.

(4) THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE & AWESOME KONG vs. TAYLOR WILDE, SARITA, ODB, & TARA (w/POISON)

Tara and Rayne lock up to start. Tara shoves Rayne to the mat, hits a gut wrench, then cinches in a front face lock with a bridge. Wilde tags in and enters the ring with a Double Sledge off the top rope onto Rayne. She works some arm wrenches and then tags in Sarita. Wilde hits an Oklahoma Roll, then helps out Sarita with an Assisted Moonsault. Von Erich tags in. She hits a boot to Sarita's abdomen and then a big club to the back.

Sarita is still isolated in the ring. She creates some distance from Sky with a dropkick, and both Rayne and ODB tag in. ODB tosses Sky and Rayne into opposite corners, charges them both, hits the Bronco Buster on Sky and a Fall Away Slam on Rayne. Von Erich comes into the ring and clotheslines ODB, so Tara comes into the ring to take her out. Tara stupidly jumps over to Kong's corner, where she gets whacked. Kong tags in, as does Taylor Wilde on the other side of the ring. Wilde goes for a running shoulder block, but just bounces off. Kong attempts an Awesome Bomb, but Taylor slips out. Taylor tries to kick Kong's legs out, but gets caught with the Implant Buster for the loss. Taz says she doesn't qualify "in the implant category"—I don't know if that was intended as a compliment or an insult.

WINNER: The Beautiful People and Awesome Kong in 8 minutes. This might have been good—it's hard to tell with the gaping commercial in the middle. After the match, Rayne and Sky keep Von Erich from stupidly hugging Awesome Kong.

(5) THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS & AMAZING RED (w/DON WEST) vs. WORLD ELITE (KIYOSHI, BASHIR, & HERNANDEZ)

Homicide brings something wrapped in a flag to the commentary table, which he claims is a bouquet for his girlfriend. The heels jump the bell to start. Shelley forces back Homicide with a kick, but eats a spinning back elbow. Bashir tags in and chokes Shelley in the corner. A Neck Breaker gets two. Kiyoshi tags in and trades open-handed chops with Shelley. Shelley gains the advantage, so Kiyoshi takes him down with a throat thrust. Kiyoshi gets Shelley with a sitting dropkick, but Sabin quickly breaks up the cover. Shelley goes to the wrong corner, but is able to pop Bashir and Homicide. Homicide takes the opportunity to retrieve his object from the commentary booth, which turns out to be the barbed wire wrapped baseball bat he apparently stole from Foley's office earlier. Security guards stop him on his way back to the ring. Bashir tags into the match. He shoots Kiyoshi off towards Shelley in the corner, but Shelley Back Body Drops him out to the apron, kicks him off, then Flatliners Bashir into the middle turnbuckle. Kiyoshi tries to cut off the tag, but Shelley kicks him off and connects with Red. Red comes into the ring with a Double Dropkick off the top rope onto both opponents. He takes both men down with Spinning Wheel Kicks, rolls over the back of Kiyoshi with a kick onto Bashir, then floors Kiyoshi with some type of crazy Tilt-a-Whirl Tornado DDT. Sabin tags himself in, so Red goes to the outside to take out Bashir with a Corkscrew Tope. In the ring, Sabin and Shelley squish Bashir, then Shelley tags in for a double team Neck Breaker/Top Rope Splash for three.

WINNERS: Amazing Red & The Motor City Machine Guns. He is, in fact, amazing.

(6) THE BRITISH INVASION vs. BEER MONEY, INC.

Roode takes Williams down with a shoulder block to start, then a Flying Clothesline. He knocks Williams out of the ring, and Storm comes in to take out an interfering Magnus. Williams starts to walk away, but Magnus points out that they actually have to win this match. Rob Terry comes down with a chair, but Magnus points out that a DQ doesn't do them any more good. He goes to the ring and trips Roode from ringside. Williams takes advantage with a back elbow, then tags in Magnus. He stomps Roode and chokes him a bit. Williams tags in, and they hit their double team Union Jack and patented handshake. A cover barely gets two. Williams drives his knee into Roode's back. Roode powers to his feet, but Williams yanks him down by the hair. Magnus tags in, but when he shoots Williams off into Roode Roode gets his boots up. He stalls Magnus with an elbow, then comes off the top rope with a double float-over Neck Breaker. He makes the leaping tag to Storm, who comes in with right hands. He gets a Triple H-like Facebuster on Magnus, then gets an interfering Williams with a Bulldog. He lifts Magnus out to the apron and catches him on his way back with a Lifting DDT. Williams tries to break up the ensuing cover with a Knee Drop, but Storm dodges. Roode comes in to help with a Beer Money Suplex on Williams. Magnus gets up into an Inverted Atomic Drop from Roode and a double team clothesline/Back Stabber for a long two count. Roode gets a chair and puts it in the ring. Magnus grabs it and is about to swing, when Doug Williams talks him down. While they argue, Beer Money shove them together. They crack heads, and Beer Money polish off Magnus with the DWI.

WINNERS: Beer Money Inc. in five minutes.

(7) AJ STYLES vs. SAMOA JOE

We're starting at 10:56. Joe gives AJ the run-around, weaving in and out of the ring. He tries to catch AJ on his way in, but AJ leap frogs him and connects with the high dropkick. Joe grabs his tights and yanks him into the bottom turnbuckle. He stomps AJ a bit then goes for the Face Wash—I'm not sure he's done that for years. Joe connects with a Power Bomb, and when AJ tries to kick out Joe transitions into an STF. He then transitions into a Cross Face, but AJ makes it to the ropes. Joe waits for AJ to get up, then works some punches. AJ suddenly ducks one and comes back with punches and chops of his own. He looks for his leap-over Inverted DDT, but Joe dodges and connects with a Decapitator Clothesline for two. Joe goes for another Power Bomb, but AJ slips out and hits a Spinning Heel Kick. He wants the Styles Clash, but Joe tosses him off. Joe goes for another clothesline, but AJ ducks and connects with a Pele. AJ goes to the top rope, when Daniels runs down and jumps up onto the apron. AJ slips off the top rope and asks Daniels what he's doing. Daniels says he's here to watch AJ's back, but AJ tells him to leave. They argue, as Joe smirks in the background. AJ slugs Daniels off the apron, but by now Joe is behind him and locks in the Kokido Clutch. AJ passes out, and the ref calls for the bell. Daniels has a slight grin as he walks out.

WINNER: Samoa Joe in five minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 14 2009, 12:38 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 11-12-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36728.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MATT HARDY vs. D.H. SMITH (w/Tyson Kidd and Natalya)

Hardy and Smith started with a few basic mat exchanges. Smith then shot Hardy off to the ropes and Hardy stopped short to stare down at Natalya, who provided a brief distraction to give Smith the advantage. Announcers plugged Jericho vs. The Undertaker on Smackdown tomorrow night as Smith sat down on a chinlock. The match then moved up top and Hardy landed a superplex going to the break.

Back from break, Smith was working over Hardy, who took a beating for a while. Hardy then made his comeback, teased the Twist of Fate, but hit the side effect for a close nearfall. With the match in peril for Smith, Kidd hopped on the ring apron. Hardy ran Kidd off the apron, but the ref ran off Kidd and Natalya after Smith regained the advantage by smashing Hardy with a big boot to the face. Striker complained that Tyson Kidd has "procured" a manager's license, so he has every right to be ringside. Suddenly from behind, Hardy rolled up Smith with a small package to score the pin and the win. Post-match: Kidd and Natalya ran back into the ring and ran off Hardy, who celebrated on the outside. Grisham talked about Smith dominating most of the match for Smith to save face.

WINNER: Hardy in 13:00. Good finish to a solid match. With ROH and Davey Richards's new Evolve promotion focusing on standings and win/loss records, respectively, it would be nice if this match had an added "sports feel" where wins and losses count for future U.S. or World Title shots down the line. Just something to give this match a little extra juice that the announcers could play up. I beleive that's what's missing if WWE is going to advance the product into the next decade if they're going to continue presenting TV with the same look and feel from the Attitude era. (**)

2 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Ryder started off aggressively, but Shelton matched his intensity with a take-down into mounted right hand blows. Ryder came back with an aggressive attack, which drew Rosa's approval. More shots of Rosa ringside than the men in the ring, thus far. Announcers broke it down to the common denominator for the kids at home that Ryder is like the "rough kid" in school who draws the interest of women. Didn't Dolph Ziggler just have that "James Dean" storyline with Maria? Shelton made a comeback at 4:00 and cleaned house, which drew Rosa's concern. At least she's decent with facial expressions telling a story. Both men then flipped over the top rope together and landed hard on the floor. Rosa got up to take a look at her man, who ate the guardrail. Rosa checked on Ryder, who smiled, but lost track of the ten count being applied by the ref. Ryder apparently went into fantasy land and was counted out. He suddenly snapped to attention and slipped back into the ring, only to take the Pay Dirt from Shelton. Rosa could only put her hands over her mouth in shock that Ryder had another rough night at the office.

WINNER: Shelton via count-out in 5:00. Seems like the basic, male-driven, chauvinistic storyline in wrestling that women are distractions from success and cloud the judgment of Average Joe wrestler. The storyline also seems like a message to the locker room, especially based on Jim Ross's takes on his blog about many of the male wrestlers being "in lust" rather than "in love" with many of their female counterparts. Match was fine, but not memorable. (*)

3 -- MVP (w/Mark Henry) vs. TED DiBiase, JR. (w/Cody Rhodes)

Jerry Lawler gave us a plug for Survivor Series that his favorite match was him vs. Doink and the mini-clowns. That would be Survivor Series '94 with Lawler, Cheesy, Queasy, and Sleazy against Doink, Dink, Pink, and Wink. Cole started busting up with laughter at the mere thought of this. Of note, there were only five matches on that PPV card. Watch this segue. "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase led the "Million Dollar Team" in the semi-main event of the PPV. ... MDM's son and MVP had an even start to this match tonight on Superstars. MVP then knocked DiBiase to the floor going to break.

Back from break, Lawler said he passed Legacy in the hallway earlier today and they couldn't stop from laughing at MVP not faring too well on "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" DiBiase surmised MVP is stupid, according to Lawler. ... Action moved to the floor where DiBiase rammed MVP shoulder-first into the ringpost, then dragged him back into the ring for a pin and a two count. Match went into the basic formula machine with MVP teasing a comeback, only to have DiBiase cut him off and go back to working the shoulder. Cody then rammed the shoulder into the post behind the ref's back. Another pin attempt by DiBiase, but only a two count. MVP then shrugged off DiBiase and made another comeback. MVP sold pain in the shoulder with each right hand blow before landing a running chinbreaker using his knee.

MVP then set up the Ballin' elbow drop and connected. He wanted the Playmaker, but DiBiase spun out and kicked MVP in the gut. MVP shook it off, though, and nailed his running boot to the face for a two count. Cody then hopped on the apron, but Henry did his job by dropping Cody on the floor. Back in the ring, DiBiase tried his Dream Street finisher, but MVP countered with a small package to score the pin and the win. Afterward, MVP and Henry celebrated in the ring while DiBiase and Cody angrily walked around ringside. Superstars closed with MVP and Henry standing tall in the ring to send 'em home happy.

WINNER: MVP in 14:00. Solid, formula singles main event. Nothing spectacular or flashy, but the announcers were able to get across the key points for the Survivor Series match-up between Team Kofi and Team Orton. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 14 2009, 02:09 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-13-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36746.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- C.M PUNK vs. R-TRUTH

Prior to the match, Truth filed a complaint (an informal one, likely) before the match about Punk not being a real man. He said the fans came for action, not to see Punk preach. Once the bell rang, Truth went on offense. Punk got him up early for a Go To Sleep, but Truth got down and hit a kick to the face. Truth back-dropped Punk over the top rope and to the floor a little over a minute in. They took a break at this point.

Truth went to the top rope, but Punk kicked him at the ankle, sending Truth spilling to the mat inside the ring. Punk controlled the match for the next few minutes after that. Truth began to make his comeback- weird to watch this match with very little crowd reaction. Scissors kick missed for Truth, and Punk signaled that it was time to go to sleep. He got Truth up, but Truth attempted a roll-up counter. Punk instead sat down and grabbed the middle rope for leverage, the ref not seeing it, and counting to three.

WINNER: Punk, at 9:15. Just a few months ago, Punk was World Champion. Now, he’s beating R-Truth by cheating. I’m assuming this demotion down the card won’t last for long.

2- MICKIE JAMES vs. NATALYA

Natalya got no entrance. Natalya with a double-leg take-down and a “yeah, baby!” Striker evened mentioned Jim Neidhart, one night after he appeared on TNA Impact (even though the commentary is taped). Natalya lured Mickie to the outside, and shoved her into the ring steps. Surfboard applied by the daughter of the Anvil. She kicked away at Mickie in the corner, but Mickie fought back. Hurricanrana out of the corner by James, then a clothesline. Natalya threw Mickie out of the ring to stop her momentum, but not for long. Top rope Thesz Press for two as Michelle and Layla came to the ring, showing off some of Mickie’s clothing that they presumably stole from her locker room. The ladies took scissors to Mickie’s garments to distract her. Natalya snuck up behind Mickie and clotheslined her from behind. Sharpshooter finished Mickie off.

WINNER: Natalya, at 3:52. A different women’s match than you’ll see on Raw, and a good win for Natalya.

3- DREW MCINTYRE vs. FINLAY

Elbow to the nose right off the bat by Finlay. Clubbering European uppercuts followed that. McIntyre came back with a kick to the chest that sent Finlay to the outside. Striker made up the story that Vince McMahon met McIntyre at a golf tournament in Ayr, Scotland, and was impressed enough to sign him and bring him to Smackdown. I can’t imagine Vince ever golfing. The two continued to brawl inside and out of the ring. They didn’t adhere to the referee’s orders, and he rang the bell, throwing the match out. It was about 10-15 seconds after the bell rang that the announcers actually spoke and referenced the bell ringing, which was kind of weird.

WINNER: Double disqualification, at 2:16. A straight brawl to further this feud.

After the match, McIntyre came back for more, hitting Finlay in the chest with the Shillelagh a second time (first time was in the head, right after the match was thrown out).

4- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JOHN MORRISON- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Ziggler played the cowardly heel early on. Striker noted that the I.C. Title has changed hands there times in the United Kingdom. Flapjack followed by a legdrop from Morrison for two. The champ went to the top, but Ziggler tripped him up. He rolled up Morrison for two, then went for a gut-buster, which got two. They went to break about 2:00 in.

Ziggler had what appeared to be a waist-lock with a bridge applied on Morrison. He tripped Morrison up charging into the corner, causing Morrison to nearly land on his head. He continued working on the mid-section of Morrison, dropping numerous elbows for a near-fall. They did the yeah-boo punches in the middle of the ring, and Morrison cracked Ziggler in the head with a flying forearm. Leg lariat for two. Face-buster by Ziggler, as he dodged the Moonlight Drive. Morrison lined Ziggler up for Starship Pain, but Ziggler tried to go for a roll-up with his feet on the ropes. Ref saw it and as Ziggler complained to the ref, Morrison landed the Flying Chuck kick for two. From the top, both men went spiraling down outside the ring, Morrison seeming to take the brunt of it against the railing. It must’ve knocked both men a bit wonky, as neither man even moved by the time the referee’s count made it to ten.

WINNER: Double count-out, at 11:37. Solid match, but I’m going to start calling Ziggler “Lex Luger.” Not sure what stopped them from booking the title change here. And how ‘bout a DDQ and a DCO in the same show?

5- BETH PHOENIX vs. LISA TAYLOR

Forearm shots to the face by Phoenix, followed by a shoulder-breaker. She put Taylor in the Tree of Woe in the corner. Neck-breaker out of it in a nice-looking spot. Glam Slam was next, and last.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 1:25. Effective squash.

6- CHRIS JERICHO vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Jericho suckered Taker into the corner and worked him over. But then Taker did the same, except he put Jericho in the corner a tad more physically. Taker then clotheslined Jericho over the top rope and to the arena floor. Striker quoted Hall-of-Famer Buddy Rogers talking about the World Heavyweight Championship. Legdrop with Jericho draped over the apron, vintage Undertaker there. Back in the ring, the (alleged) Dead Man worked the left arm of Jericho as Chris hollered at the ref to make Taker give him some room. Old School time, but Jericho climbed up and pulled Taker down with the arm. They went to break 2:40 into the contest.

Jericho was slugging Taker in the head out of break, seemingly keeping the big man grounded. Middle-rope dropkick by Jericho for a two-count. After a quick chin-lock, Jericho kicked Taker out of the ring, then celebrated with a simple raise of the arm in the ring to draw some heel heat. Into the barriers went Taker courtesy of the former Y2J. Back in the ring, Jericho choked Taker on the middle rope. Jericho tried to trade soup-bones toe-to-toe with Taker, a battle he wasn’t going to win. Taker is, after all, the best pure striker in the game today. Snake Eyes for Jericho, but he dropkicked Taker as he was going for the big boot. A minute later, Undertaker successfully connected on the boot. But he missed one in the corner and crotched himself on the top rope. Taker picked Jericho up out of the corner for the Last Ride, but Jericho got out and hit the Codebreaker on Taker. He was slow to react though and only got two on a pin attempt. It appeared that Jericho was going for a Tombstone on Undertaker, who reversed it into one of his own. Jericho got out and landed a Lionsault. As Jericho sat up, Taker did too and grabbed Jericho by the throat. Counter by Jericho into a Walls of Jericho attempt. He did lock it in. After some struggling, Taker countered by grabbing Jericho and putting him in the Hell’s Gate. Jericho tried once to get to the rope but when he couldn’t, he tapped out.

WINNER: Taker, at 14:00. Not sure what this accomplished- were they looking to pop a rating for a show that ratings generally don’t matter as much as Raw? Why else would they give away a match between Taker and Jericho, first-time ever, with nothing at stake and on free TV?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 17 2009, 12:24 pm
TNA Turning Point PPV Results: 11-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to complete ongoing results).

1 -- X Division champion AMAZING RED (w/Don West) vs. HOMICIDE -- X Division Title match
WINNER: Amazing Red in 10:00. Very nice opener, but there were too many distractions - Don West talking, Don West's wardrobe, the Impact Zone trying to get themselves over. Just need to let the guys do their thing in the ring. (**1/2)
 
2 -- Knockout champion ODB & Knockout tag champions TAYLOR WILDE & SARITA vs. BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (VELVET SKY & MADISON RAYNE & LACEY VON ERICH) -- TNA Knockouts & TNA Knockout Tag Titles match
WINNERS: ODB & Sarita & Wilde in 7:00. Fine showing at times, but overall not a memorable outing from a wrestling perspective. Too much T&A for this match to be taken seriously and Lacey for Angelina Love is a poor trade for the top heel group in the division. (*)
 
3 -- TNA tag champions BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS) vs. BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) -- TNA tag title match
WINNERS: British Invasion in 12:00. And Beer Money being shut out of the tag titles continues. Nash's re-appearance, KO on Storm, and title belt theft became the story of the match. As for the match, there were plenty of spots and guys did a lot of stuff, but it amounted to filler, as the finish was the result of outside interference and not the product of any of the in-ring work leading to the finish. (*1/2)
 
4 -- TARA vs. AWESOME KONG -- Steel cage match
WINNER: Tara in 8:00. Solid, very good Knockouts match featuring two of the top women in the company. Right finish with a big spot actually leading to the finish. Well done. (**1/4)
 
5 -- RHINO & IWGP tag champions TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) vs. D'ANGELO DINERO & HERNANDEZ & MATT MORGAN
WINNERS: Rhino & Team 3D in 14:00. Good tag match. Lots of action, heels played their part well, and Rhino was given a considerable boost taking the win. Hernandez had enough offense to not lose much because no one will remember he took the fall in this match. The heels winning via cheat-to-win tactics was expected in this match and TNA hasn't featured too many tricks and gadgets thus far to where the finish didn't take away from the match. (**3/4)
 
6 -- BOBBY LASHLEY vs. SCOTT STEINER -- No DQ, Falls Count Anywhere match
WINNER: Steiner in 12:00. A shortcut gimmick match to cover for them not being able to have an interesting 12-minute straight singles match. At first, the ending seemed like a storyline write-off for Lashley, but he popped right up after a few minutes. (*1/4)
 
7 -- KURT ANGLE vs. DESMOND WOLFE
WINNER: Angle via submission in 17:00. There's your value-added for the additional $5 on the price tag. Star-making match for Wolfe, who had plenty of credible offense and positive talk by the announcers to not lose anything from taking the loss. Angle was on-fire, as usual, and really answered the call working with a wrestling talent at his level. The drawback to this was watching Angle in this style of a match considering his real health concerns. (****1/2)
 
8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. STYLES vs. SAMOA JOE vs. DANIELS -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Styles in 22:00 to retain the TNA World Title. Excellent, awesome main event match. Not quite the 2005 level, but darn close and the peak of what these three can do together four years later. Styles was an absolute star with his display of offense, while Joe was a monster taking it back to the old-school with the trademark offense that made him stand out in 2005 as the TNA Rookie of the Year/Wrestler of the Year overall. Daniels was very good in his role and stood out as a legit main-eventer. All the pieces came together to match Angle-Wolfe for a great one-two punch on this PPV. (****1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 18 2009, 10:42 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-16-09

Note: there was an awful lot of jawing going on in this episode of RAW. The best moment was when Kofi Kingston went on the attack on Orton after he initially attacked Piper, who wanted to fight Vince McMahon, DX knocks out Hornswaggle, Sheamus going berzerk, etc. etc.

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36802.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring resutls only.

1 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. MVP -- United States Title match

Miz took it to MVP early on, but MVP made a comeback. Cole suggested the lowly Knicks could use MVP as he set up the ballin' elbow drop for a two count. MVP wanted the Playmaker, but Miz escaped and shot MVP off to the corner to land a kick to the gut. Miz then dropped MVP on his face with the Skullcrushing Finale for the pin and the win. Ringside, Sherri wasn't pleased with her sitcom...er...man losing the match.

WINNER: Miz at 3:46 to retain the U.S. Title. Hot crowd tonight gave this match a boost. There's definitely a different vibe in the arena to create energy this show desperately needs. MVP got in his signature spots to retain some credibility despite the loss. Good showing for MVP at the top of the show. (*1/4)

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Bell sounded and Santino told Chavo to hold on. He pulled out a #10 Eli Manning jersey for the Giants. This was followed by a #34 Patrick Ewing jersey. Wait, next was a Mark Sanchez Jets jersey. Cole played the heel pointing out how poorly the New York teams have been. Santino then pulled out a Johan Santana jersey from the Mets. Suddenly, Santino was in a Phillies jersey. Loud boos. Santino pretended to be shocked. He then took off the Phils jersey to finally be wearing a Yankees jersey. Didn't see the number on the back. Chavo had enough and gave Santino a suplex. We got a look that it was Derek Jeter's #2 jersey. I hope this isn't what Jim Ross meant by Yankees in the house tonight. Suddenly, Hornswoggle showed up in DX gear. He distracted Chavo, then Santino rolled up Chavo from behind for a three count. The coyote loses to the roadrunner again.

WINNER: Chavo at 2:50. A parade of jerseys the NFL and MLB will be grateful for. Crowd was hot for the locally-driven match. Thankfully, we got the obligatory Chavo joke match out of the way. (n/a)

3 -- Divas champion MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX -- Divas Title match

On cue, Alicia found herself on the outside trying to intimidate the babyface lumberjacks, then she returned to the ring and Melina worked her over before landing her Canadian Destroyer-esque finisher for the quick pin and the win. Post-match: a fight broke out among all the divas present to set up the Five-on-Five match at Survivor Series. Babyface divas stood tall and then danced to close out the segment, much to Judah's delight.

WINNER: Melina at 1:38 to retain the Divas Title. A short match happened. And they danced. Not a memorable display of women's wrestling tonight. (n/a)

4 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EVAN BOURNE

Action was joined in progress with Swagger already dominating Bourne with mat holds. Bourne elbowed Swagger in the head, but Swagger shook it off and smashed Bourne with a lariat to the back of the head. Bourne then came back with a double knee smash off the top rope for a two count. Swagger shook off Bourne's offense, then took Bourne across the ring with multiple running powerslams into the turnbuckles before finishing him off with the gut wrench powerbomb for the win. Announcers built up Swagger as a dominant figure for the Survivor Series match for Team Miz.

WINNER: Swagger at 2:02 of what aired. Just two minutes of Swagger having offense, a quick tease from Bourne, then Swagger with the dominating offense to stand tall. Not enough aired for this to be memorable. (n/a)

5 -- World Hvt. champion THE UNDERTAKER & WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. Unified tag champions CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW

Cena, Michaels, and Jericho started things off with the bell sounding seven minutes after the top of the hour. Big Show then tagged in for Jericho, followed by Hunter. Cena then walked over to Taker, who tagged in to bring in the three bigger men. Hunter and Taker formed an agreement to work over Show, who took right hand strikes. Taker and Hunter then dumped Show to the floor and went after each other. Hunter landed a spinebuster, then Hunter tagged in Michaels. Taker sat up, though, and we were back to WrestleMania 25. Cole noted it was their first encounter since then. Michaels ducked a punch, then landed a round of slaps. Taker then walked into a big spear from Big Show, who clobbered Michaels and brought in Chris Jericho. Jericho smirked and saluted himself before landing a bulldog on Michaels. Jericho then slapped on the Walls of Jericho, but Taker broke it up and Cena blind-tagged in for Taker. Cena dropped Jericho with a bulldog, but Michales hit Cena with a chop and brought in Hunter. Suddenly, Cena and Hunter had a staredown. He gave Hunter the "You Can't See Me" and Hunter responded with a crotch chop. Show had enough and double-chokeslammed both men until Taker entered to battle Show. Cole noted Taker's MSG moments with a reference to "Mankind." The action moved to the floor where Show whipped Taker into the guardrail. Cole said he needs a scorecard to keep up with who's legal. Michaels took a tag from Hunter, then Michaels did his routine and went up top to drop the "vintage" elbow to the heart. Michaels started tuning up the band, but Cena interrupted and put Michaels center ring for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then wanted the FU on HBK, but Hunter blind-tagged in mid-air and dropped Cena with a high knee. Hunter cleaned house before dropping Cena with a spinebuster center ring. Hunter wanted the Pedigree, but Big Show entered and headbutted Hunter. Suddenly, Michaels dropped Show with the superkick. Jericho with the Codebreaker on Michaels. Taker then re-entered and chokeslammed Jericho. Hunter then clotheslined Taker to the floor. Suddenly, Cena with the FU on Hunter to score a pin on Hunter for the win.

Post-match: Out of nowhere, Undertaker entered the ring and dropped Cena with a Tombstone Piledriver center ring. Striker asked if Taker was trying to send a message of domination. It's the Alpha Male world. Taker then grabbed his World Title belt and knelt over Cena's fallen body. Taker stared into the hard camera as his music played to close the show 15 minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNERS: Taker & Cena at 7:10. Well, there's your first official tease for Cena vs. Taker at WrestleMania 26. Very good tag match with a constant flow of action, moves, teases, counters, finishers, star power, and intriguing match-ups. Electric atmosphere in the arena helped tremendously. This show started with tons of energy, DX sucked the life out of the building, then McMahon, Piper, Kofi, and Orton rebuilt the energy to culminate with an excellent TV main event. Only problem was we still don't have an issue for the top two matches at Survivor Series and WWE is teasing a WrestleMania match. WWE is obviously not concerned about PPV buys at this point. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2009, 12:53 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 11-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36833.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- PAUL BURCHILL (w/Katie Lea) vs. THE HURRICANE

Burchill's ECW career on the line vs. Hurricane's mask. They had an early feeling-out process to convey to the audience this was going to go long. Burchill then gained control with his trademark slow-it-down, work-a-body part offense. Katie tried to get involved by grabbing Hurricane's foot from the outside, and Burchill capitalized with a suplex to take control going to the break.

The second-half of the match led to desperation mode with each man scoring nearfalls trying to protect their positions. Announcers suggested Hurricane was using his super-powers to kick out of each pin attempt. Burchill became frustrated, screamed out to the audience, and demanded Katie do something. She stood by silently, though. Hurricane then hit the Eye of the Hurricane for another two count. The action moved up top and Hurricane blocked a superplex. He then nailed a top rope neckbreaker and scored the pin on Burchill for the win. And Burchill is gone from ECW. Post-match: Katie Lea shook her head in frustration ringside as Burchill held his hair in anger and frustration. Katie then slid into the ring to console Paul as the announcers went silent. Crowd just wanted them out of the ring, but WWE milked the reality of the situation for a while.

WINNER: Hurricane in 14:00. Good, above-average TV match with a nice finish that the audience bought into considering the stipulations. We'll see what it means for Burchill in WWE going forward. Tiffany's post-match reaction in the next camera shot suggested Burchill might be able to convice her to stay... (**1/4)

2 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. JOHNNY ANDREWS

Announcers reminded us that Archer is intense. Archer made poor Andrews cry, or Andrews was just selling pain. Archer nailed his intese finisher for the pin and the win. Crowd still quiet for Archer, who we don't anything about in WWE. That's intense.

WINNER: Quick squash to continue building up Arch. Intense you might say. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & R-TRUTH vs. C.M. PUNK & WILLIAM REGAL

After the full-length entrances, the babyfaces cleared Punk and Regal to the floor and they quickly cut to a break.

Back from break, the heels were in control with Punk working over Truth's right knee before bringing in Regal to pick up what Punk was putting down. Announcers talked up the Survivor Series elimination matches while Punk shouted at Christian, "Who's the man now, huh?" Regal continued to work the knee as Punk riled up the crowd from the ring apron to keep them interested. Punk came back in and cut off Truth's attempted comeback before bringing Regal back in to inflict more punishment. Punk returned at 10:00, but lost control to allow Christian to tag in. Christian nailed a Tornado DDT for a two count, then hit a spinning D.J. Gabriel European Uppercut from the second rope. Punk and Christian then teased each other's finishers, but Christian had the last word with a Killswitch, only to have Regal break up a pin attempt. The action broke down and Christian ate a running knee trembler from Regal. Punk then scooped up Christian for the Go 2 Sleep on Christian for the pin and the win. Afterward, Regal hugged Punk to celebrate the win going into Survivor Series. After replays aired, Regal and Punk did the "go to sleep" hand motion to taunt Christian as the heels stood tall to close the show.

WINNERS: Punk & Regal in 12:00. Punk gets the last laugh over Christian on ECW tonight to set up Christian's team for a probable comeback victory at Survivor Series. Fine match with Punk playing a good heel throughout the match (and the show) to rile up the crowd during potential slow spots. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 21 2009, 03:11 pm
Ah...the joys of returning to work as I'm way behind on my TV reports. To view them, check out The Official WWE Thread at the Neo-Geo Forum: Post #9521 (WWE Superstars) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2861007&postcount=9521), Post #9522 (TNA Impact!) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2861009&postcount=9522) and Post #9523 (WWE Smackdown) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2861010&postcount=9523)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 23 2009, 03:31 pm
WWE Survivor Series PPV Results: 11-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).

1 -- TEAM MIZ (U.S. champion THE MIZ & DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER & vs. TEAM MORRISON & DREW MCINTYRE) vs. TEAM MORRISON (IC champion JOHN MORRISON & MATT HARDY & EVAN BOURNE & FINLAY & SHELTON BENJAMIN) -- Survivor Series match
Eliminations: Ziggler by Bourne at 3:58, Bourne by McIntyre at 4:12, Finlay by Sheamus at 5:14, Swagger by Morrison at 12:12, Shelton by Miz at 14:58, Hardy by McIntyre at 17:15, and Morrison by Sheamus at 20:55.
WINNERS: Team Miz (Miz, Sheamus, McIntyre) at 20:55. Slow match at times, but the overall emphasis on Miz's top heels was well-done. Sheamus continues to gain more and more exposure as a legit heel who could be a threat to John Cena or DX down the line. McIntyre had a nice showing as a future top heel on Smackdown. Fine opening match. (**1/2)

2 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. BATISTA
WINNER: Batista via referee stoppage at 6:50. Holy backfire, WWE. Announcers did their best to explain Batista being a jerk for trying to injure the fan-friendly Rey Mysterio, but things like Rey trying to channel Eddie will not win over an audience. Batista, meanwhile, is a refreshing badass character for the first time in a very long time, so the audience is going to buy into him. If this was in another city other than Batista's hometown, I don't believe the reaction would have been much different. The pro-Batista reaction was enhanced since they're in D.C., but the vocal minority wants a guy like Batista to cheer for. (*1/4)

3 -- TEAM KOFI (KOFI KINGSTON & MVP & MARK HENRY & R-TRUTH & ECW champion CHRISTIAN) vs. TEAM ORTON (RANDY ORTON & TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES & WILLIAM REGAL & C.M. PUNK)
Eliminations: Henry by Orton at 0:51, Truth by Punk at 3:13, DiBiase by Christian at 5:10, Regal by Kofi at 6:50, MVP by Rhodes at 10:10, Cody by Christian at 11:34, Christian by Orton at 13:25, Punk by Kofi at 20:43, Orton by Kofi at 20:50.
WINNERS: Far too many pins early on, but it served the purpose of focusing on the key issue between Kofi and Orton at the end of the match. Kofi was obviously the star by the end of the match after a good middle of the match with Christian and Kofi vs. Punk and Orton. This match had more "big moments" compared to the opening traditional Survivor Series match to be slightly better. (***)

4 -- WORLD Hvt. champion THE UNDERTAKER vs. Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. Unified tag champion BIG SHOW -- World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Taker via submission at 13:37. Had some good moments, but an overall sluggish match with Show held back by the knee and Taker's body banged up. Good final two minutes teasing several believable nearfalls, but everyone in the building knew Taker was going to retain the belt. Smackdown's top storylines will most-likely progress with a Jericho-Show break-up tease and Batista possibly next up for Taker. (**1/2)

5 -- TEAM MCCOOL (Divas champion MICHELLE MCOOL & LAYLA & ALICIA FOX & JILLIAN HALL & BETH PHOENIX) vs. TEAM MICKIE (MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY & Divas champion MELINA & EVE & GAIL KIM)
WINNERS: Team Mickie (Mickie and Melina) at 10:42. The early pinfalls were expected for the buffer match, then the focus on McCool vs. Mickie and Melina was well done to conclude the match. Beth had a chance to shine as well. (*1/2)

6 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. TRIPLE H vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- WWE Title match
WINNER: Cena at 21:14 to retain the WWE Title. Default best match of the night, but didn't quite have that "must-see" main event feel to it. Some very good nearfalls at the end playing off HBK turning on Hunter boosted this to a strong three stars. TNA had a better all-around three-way main event last Sunday. WWE specializes in having better stories with their main events, but TNA even had a good "story" to their main event that didn't just rely on highspots from A.J. Styles, Samoa Joe, and Daniels. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 25 2009, 12:57 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-23-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36958.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- Breakthrough qualifying match

Crowd with an early "Let's go Kofi" chant in the opening minute. Dolph went on the attack after Kofi missed with an early corner attack. He continued to ground Kofi with mat holds, then Kofi made a comeback at 3:00 with his aerial attack. Kofi then followed with a Boom Boom elbow drop. He teased the Trouble in Paradise kick, but Ziggler ducked. Ziggler then wanted his finisher, but Kofi grabbed the ropes to block. He followed with the TIP kick to make the pin for the win.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston at 3:54 to advance to the #1 contender battle royal. Basic four-minute TV match. The audience didn't think for a second Ziggler was winning, plus they didn't seem to be very familiar with Smackdown's Ziggler. (*)

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. FINLAY -- Breakthrough qualifying match

The bell sounded and Finlay smashed Sheamus to the outside right at Lawler's feet for him to get a good look at Sheamus. Back in the ring, Sheamus pounded on Finlay before finishing him off with the Outsider's Edge for the decisive pin and the win. Well, that was quick. Post-match, Sheamus wasn't done with Finlay, as he ran back into the ring to deliver more punishment. The action spilled to the floor where Sheamus gave Finlay a running bicycle kick over the guardrail to the floor. Announcers noted it's been a long time since Finlay has been manhandled like that.

WINNER: Sheamus at 1:58 to advance to the #1 contender battle royal. Very short match, but the emphasis was on making Sheamus look like a monster. Should be an interesting battle royal just based on the first two qualifiers in a Battle of the super-pushes. (n/a)

3 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match

Punk played a good heel waiting for the right moment to lock up initially. Punk landed a series of kicks early on before yelling at someone in the front row to shut up. The momentary distraction allowed Cena to make a brief comeback before setting up the STF, but Punk easily escaped and slipped to the floor for a breather. Cena did the "this close" sign to Punk going to break.

Back from break, Punk was in control as the announcers talked about Punk cutting his teeth on Raw last year. Punk continued his methodical attack, but Cena fired back at 7:45 with his usual comeback routine. Cena dropped Punk center ring and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle at the top of the hour.

Cena teased the FU, but Punk escaped the finisher and wanted the G2S. Cena countered that, though, and slapped on the STF in center ring. Punk reached the ropes for a break, then came to his feet and nailed a kick strike that KO'ed Cena. Punk made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Punk followed with a high knee in the corner, but Cena predictably countered the bulldog and tossed Punk across the ring. Both men were down and out, then Cena pulled himself up to the top rope and hit the guillotine leg drop. Cena made a cover, but Punk kicked out. Good nearfall. Cena and Punk reset the action and Punk nailed a leaping leg strike for a two count of his own. Punk then airballed a flying splash in the corner and remained draped across the top turnbuckle. Cena then climbed up top and put Punk on his shoulders to deliver a top rope FU Attitude Adjustment. The big spot of the night led to Cena making a cover for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 12:00. The theme of the show is new blood, but everyone knew the same finish was coming with Cena winning. That said, Punk had enough offense to remain credible and come out of this looking strong combined with the pre-match promo. Of note, Raw 3, Smackdown 0 in matches tonight. (**3/4)

4 -- JACK SWAGGER & CHRIS MASTERS & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MVP & MARK HENRY & R-TRUTH -- Breakthrough qualifying match

Swagger and MVP started things off against each other while Cole and Lawler chuckled about McMahon and Ventura replacing them later on. Masters tagged in and a few fans audibly chanted "steroids" at the Masterpiece. Chavo then entered and worked over MVP. Masters was back in when MVP escaped to bring in Truth. Lawler appeared to say "Hard Truth" as R-Truth cleaned house leading to a break down. Henry then scooped up Chavo and press-slammed him over the top rope onto Masters. Where's Jeremy Piven when you need him? Back in the ring, Truth nailed the Lie Detector spinning fist creating-movement finisher on Masters for the win.

WINNERS: Truth & MVP & Henry to advance to the battle royal at 3:05. No surprise here. We could use a match where the outcome is in doubt. Four very predictable match outcomes thus far. (1/2*)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. EVAN BOURNE -- Breakthrough qualifying match

The battle for St. Louis started with Orton trying to score quick early pins, but Bourne fired back with a double knee smash off the top rope for a close two count. Orton then caught Bourne off the ropes with a powerslam. He teased the RKO and he dropped Bourne center ring. He made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 1:28 to qualify for the #1 contender match. Seems like the set-up for Orton and Kofi to cost each other the battle royal to set up a singles match at the PPV. Or, worst-case scenario, we get another Cena-Orton match. That's the question for the end of the show to keep viewers tuned in - will fans be subjected to another round of Cena vs. Orton? (n/a)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 25 2009, 12:57 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-23-09

Coninued from previous post...

6 -- INDIANS (Divas champion MELINA & KELLY KELLY & MICKIE JAMES) vs. PILGRIMS (Women's champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA & JILLIAN HALL)

The match went about two minutes, then Michelle and Layla bailed from ringside fed up with the outfits and Jillian. Jillian then walked into a pin to give the Indians the win. Jerry Lawler was excited for the Indians to actually win something. Post-match: the Gooker entered the ring to celebrate with Lawler and Melina. Melina was having a good time, then the Gooker suddenly jumped Melina to reveal...Maryse. And we have a big return on the show. Maryse beat down Melina for a while, then took off the Gooker outfit to officially welcome herself back on the show. Perhaps Miz has a shot with her now that he has a title belt.

WINNERS: Indians at 2:08. Your basic WWE divas match focusing on looks and silliness more than actual wrestling. Up next for the Divas division: Melina vs. Maryse. (n/a)

7 -- DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya)

The bell sounded and we start with Kidd vs. Michaels. If Michaels is still around in three years, this could be a PPV main event. Cole reminded viewers Natalya is the daughter of Jim Niedhart, which prompted a harmless shot from Lawler that she got her looks from her mom rather than Jim.

HD took control at the top of the usual second hour with Smith and Kidd exchanging tags working over Michaels. Hunter then took a tag at 4:00 and cleaned house on Kidd. Hunter followed with spinebusters on both men before trying to pump up the lethargical crowd for this match. The action broke down, then Michaels smashed Kidd with the superkick to set up Hunter for the Pedigree on Kidd for the pin and the win. Afterward, Hunter helped Michaels to his feet and DX posed.

WINNERS: DX at 4:58. Another predictable match. HD got a slight rub, but the post-match was more important. (*)

8 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG) vs. LEGACY (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE) -- Breakthrough qualifying match

Cole and Lawler announced McMahon and Ventura will be back calling the action for the main event battle royal. After about three minutes of bland action, DiBiase dropped Shad with Dream Street to make the pin. Legacy now with three men in the #1 contender battle royal.

WINNERS: Legacy at 3:01. Just a tag match. This show has felt like complete filler since Punk-Cena. (1/2*)

#1 contender Battle Royal qualifiers
-- Kofi Kingston (Raw) beat Dolph Ziggler (SD)
-- Sheamus (Raw) beat Finlay (SD)
-- MVP (Raw), Henry (Raw), and R-Truth (SD) beat Swagger, Chavo, and Masters (Raw)
-- Randy Orton (Raw) beat Evan Bourne (Raw)
-- Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes (Raw) beat Cryme Tyme (SD)

9 -- BREAKTHROUGH BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match

Back from break, everyone was in the ring except for Randy Orton, who slowly walked out to the ring to get the match started. Sheamus stood out early on for just waiting back in the corner looking to pick his spot. McMahon with a quick unintentional plug for the new "Blind Side" movie, saying the key to a battle royal is to protect your blindside. Meanwhile, Orton slipped to the outside and waited for his moment. McMahon and Ventura traded barbs while the action slowed to a crawl. They followed with a debate on the WWE refs allowing Orton to stay on the outside. Ventura told McMahon to hire new refs, while McMahon shot back that Ventura has power. And so the dilemma of absolute power in the Raw storylines continues. And out went R-Truth via Sheamus at 2:55 for the first elimination. Batista doesn't have to worry about anything tonight. Ventura said the only problem he has with Sheamus is he needs a suntan. MVP was then knocked out of the match. Henry teased eliminating Sheamus, but Legacy saved Sheamus.

At 4:00, Henry eliminated both members of Legacy. Sheamus then snuck up behind Henry to dump him out. So now it's Orton, Sheamus, and Kofi. A graphic flashed "Voices of: Jesse Ventura, Vince McMahon." Thanks for the heads up, WWE. Kofi and Orton paired off against each other, then Sheamus tried to get involved, but Orton dropped Sheamus with the fallaway backbreaker. Orton then tried to eliminate Kofi, but Kofi skinned the cat and eliminated Orton. Orton did the big bug eyes after being eliminated. WWE stayed with a camera shot of Kofi and Orton, then Sheamus came up from behind Kofi and eliminated him for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 6:23 to become #1 contender. And there's the earlier prediction coming through with WWE building up Sheamus as a monster to be a threat to John Cena and the WWE Title. Absolutely boring first three minutes, then a decent finish focusing on Orton-Kofi. Legacy, meanwhile, was a complete afterthought despite being in there with their leader, Orton. Time to hit the reset on Legacy. (3/4*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 26 2009, 10:39 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 11-24-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_36990.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. SHELTON BENJAMIN

Josh Mathews said Shelton will be named the #1 contender to the ECW Title if he defeats Ryder tonight. Crowd was behind Shelton, who is benefting from being presented as a babyface for a few months now. Ryder tried to bail from the ring, but Shelton flung Ryder back into the ring to work over Rosa's beau. Rosa sold concern ringside with Ryder taking a beating throughout the opening minutes of this one. Shelton then knocked Ryder to the floor and Ryder checked his teeth cutting to break.

Back from break, we got a close look at Shelton's Koko B. Hair while he was chatting with Ryder in the clutches of a devastating mat hold. Mic was too close to Shelton, who told Ryder to pick him up, which led to Ryder picking up Shelton for a back drop. Ryder then went up top and nailed a big splash for a two count. He went back up top again and nailed another top rope Superfly splash, but Shelton kicked out again. Ryder then punched Shelton several times, but Shelton started to no sell and "get all sorts of fired up," according to Mathews. Shelton then fired off a German suplex for a two count.

At 12:00, Ryder blocked a corner attack and wanted a leaping head scissors, but Shelton powerbombed Ryder across the ring into the top turnbuckle. After the buckle bomb, Shelton jumped in the air and nailed the Paydirt in center ring for the clean pin and the win. Afterward, Rosa could only pace around the ring in frustration. Meanwhile, Shelton is the new #1 contender. Post-match: ECW champ Christian came out on stage with the ECW Title belt over his shoulder. He posed a bit, then they just cut to a break.

WINNER: Shelton in 13:00. No word on when Shelton receives his title shot, but WWE booked a nice match here to build up Shelton for the upcoming title match. Shelton showed good fire with his comeback after absorbing the two top rope splashes to continue building up crowd interest in his revitalized character. Ryder, meanwhile, just needs to bide his time and continue to impress management and his peers backstage with is in-ring performance even when booked to lose. Patience. (**)

2 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. ALEX REYNOLDS

Reynolds was billed as the local favorite looking for an upset victory over the intense Archer, who has the power to read the thoughts of his opponent by looking into his eyes, according to Mathews. Sure he does. Archer methodically took apart Reynolds Wrap before delivering his impactful reverse DDT finisher for the decisive win. His music didn't hit initially to sell the intensity of his post-match stare to the hard camera. Apparently the music technicians were mesmerized by his intensity and paused before hitting his music. Yeah, that's it.

WIWINNER: Archer in 3:00. Squash. WWE likes to build up their big men to be threats to babyface champions, so you can see where this is heading in a few months if Christian is still champ. (n/a)

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL (w/Ezekiel Jackson and Kozlov) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Even exchange to start before Regal started blasting Yoshi with knee strikes. He went to work on Yoshi's face trying to rearrange his nose and perhaps his orbital bone, then went to work on the back of the head trying to concuss Yoshi with elbow strikes. Yoshi suddenly came right back with a kick strike and scored the pin for the win. Wha?

WINNER: Yoshi in 3:00. Finish came out of nowhere, which was a good thing to tell audiences a finish can come at any time. WWE has to use the "out of nowhere finish" consistently, though, for it to be even mildly effective to train audiences to pay attention to the first few minutes of a mid-card-level match. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2009, 02:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-26-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37018.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. SANTINO MARELLA -- non-title match

Crowd was hot early on with a "San-tin-o, San-tin-o" chant. Santino pointed to himself in his humble routine and asked, "Me?" Santino teased the cobra strike early on, then tried to calm it down. Santino then executed a headlock takeover and declared "I got him!" He followed with a series of arm drags, but Miz blocked a third drag and started pounding on Santino with left hand strikes before settling into mat holds. Cole and Lawler talked turkey for the first Superstars on Thanksgiving, then Miz brought Santino to his feet and landed an emphatic clothesline out of the corner. Miz called a spot for Santino to tease a comeback, then Miz executed a neckbreaker for a two count. Miz is really developing that in-ring work to go with his heel personality. Miz then went up top, but Santino blocked and started his full comeback. Santino did a big Hulk Up and declared it's cobra time. Miz kicked Santino in the hand, though, with a big boot. He followed with the Skullcrushing Finale for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Miz in 6:00. Excellent TV match. Miz played his heel role fantastically while Santino's comedy routine fit the match and didn't overstay its welcome. Highly entertaining and worth watching on a DVR replay viewing. (**)

2 -- KOZLOV (w/William Regal) vs. GOLDUST

On commentary, Josh Mathews wanted to know whether Regal and Kozlov have communicated with Jackson since Tuesday to see where his head is at. Texts, emails, phone calls? Hm, Kozlov texting. Interesting. The match moved to the floor early on with Goldust ramming Kozlov into the ringpost before cutting to a break.

Back from break, Kozlov was in control working over Goldust with multiple headbutt strikes before executing a belly-to-belly suplex. Kozlov worked over Goldust's mid-section before missing with a boot strike. Goldust then made his comeback with a running bulldog before catching Kozlov in the air for a bodyslam and a two count. Regal was rather concerned ringside as Kozlov kinda blocked a move off the ropes. Clunky and awkward block. Goldust then visibly called a spot for Kozlov to go home. Thus, Kozlov hit his Iron Curtain uranage finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kozlov was all-smiles, then Regal put a bigger smile of Kozlov's face with a running knee strike on Goldust to add insult to injury.

WINNER: Kozlov in 7:00. Goldust did his best to work around Kozlov's weaknesses as an in-ring performer trying to simulate a real competition. Rough finish, but Regal's facial expressions ringside were a good distraction from the in-ring action. Kozlov is a more marketable heel being kept in short-form matches where he's not exposed as a weak in-ring performer. (3/4*)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. R-TRUTH

Grisham said he spoke with Ziggler about being on a "six month plan" to become a champion in WWE, and Ziggler is currently on month five. Well, that's one way to explain six or seven IC Title match losses to John Morrison. Probably triple that number if you count the unaccounted-for-on-TV house shows. Match started with Ziggler in control, but Truth knocked him to the floor. Grisham and Striker debated why Ziggler hasn't been able to score a title win and Striker suggested that additional stroke of the hair is one second that he could use to score a three count instead of a two count. Ziggler started toying with Truth, but Truth came back with a dropkick through the ropes. Truth then came over the top with a missile-like plancha with his shoulder crashing into Ziggler and the ground. They cut to break with Truth asking what's up.

Back from break, Ziggler was in control working the left arm and shoulder that Ziggler smashed on the ground executing the missile plancha. Ziggler then knocked Truth to the floor and tried to get a count-out, but Truth broke the count and Ziggler aggressively attacked Truth. Ziggler continued the attack for a few minutes before Truth made a comeback, only to take a Sean Waltman-style faceplant from Ziggler for a two count. Ziggler then missed with a corner attack and Truth nailed his spinning axe kick off the ropes for a two count. Ziggler tried to come back with his finisher, but Truth countered with the Lie Detector spinning fist smash for the pin and the win. After the announcers recapped the finish, the show closed with Truth celebrating with the fans.

WINNER: Truth in 15:00. Solid TV main event. Ziggler played a good, aggressive heel to receive the focus during the match before taking the expected loss. WWE is behind Truth right now, so it will be interesting to see how far up the card he goes with Rey Mysterio now out of a top babyface slot. Truth does need to upgrade that finisher, though, if he's going to be considered a more credible potential main-event level act. All of the movement is created after the initial contact, which looks weak. A different kind of two-star match than the opener, which was at the two-star level for sheer entertainment purposes despite being half the match length of the main event. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2009, 02:38 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37017.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) ABYSS vs. LASHLEY (w/CRISTAL)

Lashley tries to charge Abyss , but bounces off. Lashley's able to get Abyss into the corner, where he lays in with strikes. The ref pulls him off, and Abyss explodes out of the corner with a clothesline. Apparently Dinero and Roode are both going for heavyweight shots, which seems especially odd in Roode's case. Abyss chokes Lashley against the corner. Lashley gets up firing, but Abyss no sells them and locks in a Neck Vise. Abyss works the Bear Hug, which Lashley sells the hell out of. Lashley escapes with some short head butts and trips Abyss neck-first onto the ropes. He follows up with a series of clotheslines. Abyss creates some distance with a back elbow but then runs right into the Spine Buster. Lashley clotheslines Abyss out of the ring. When he follows him out and Abyss goes to punch him, he catches Cristal on the back stroke. He rolls Lashley into the ring, then realizes what he's done. He freaks out, which gives Lashley the opportunity to take him down with a Spear and finish him off with a Dragon Sleeper. Cristal gets up, and I'm not sure whether she's selling the ankle or just has difficulty jumping in high heels—I'm pretty sure it's the latter.

WINNER: Lashley. Lashley's looking crisper lately.

(2) DESMOND WOLFE vs. SUICIDE

Wolfe starts off with a bit of chain wrestling as the crowd reminds him that he tapped out. He hits a cool single-underhook Suplex, but when he tries to follow up with the wrist lock Suicide flips out. Wolfe knocks him down to the mat, sets him up in the corner, and hits a downright brutal running back elbow for two. Wolfe locks in something that resembles a Tazmission. Suicide starts to slip out, so Wolfe yanks him back into a shoulder block, then locks it in again. Suicide powers out and connects with a clothesline a dropkick. He hits an Oklahoma Roll, and smoothly goes to the apron to come back with a Slingshot Leg Drop for two. Wolfe goes to the corner, where he dodges a charge and whacks Suicide in the back of the head. He sets up for the Tower of London, but Suicide slips out. Wolfe looks for his running back elbow again, but gets cut off by a Thrusting Dropkick. Suicide gets whipped into the corner, but dodges a charge himself. He goes to the top rope, but gets caught by a really sloppy Tower of London for the kill.

WINNER: Desmond Wolfe. That could have been better, but was certainly watchable.

(3) D'ANGELO ("THE POPE") DINERO vs. KURT ANGLE

Wow—somebody drew the short straw. Kurt starts with a side headlock, but Dinero is able to take him over with an Arm Drag. Angles charges into another, which Dinero transitions ino an arm bar. Angle reverses into a wrist lock, but Dinero slips out and comes off the ropes with a high octane shoulder block. Dinero comes off the ropes again, but this time right into a Belly-to-Belley Suplex. A Vertical Suplex from Angle gets two. Angle works the chin lock; the Pope powers out, so Angle shoots him into the corner. The Pope comes back firing with strikes, but Angle somehow slips beside him and straight into a pair of German Suplexes. Before he can hit the trifeecta Dinero goes behind and nails one of his own. Dinero looks for a second. Angle slips out, but gets taken down with an STO for a long two count. Dinero continues the beat down, taking Angle to the ropes and leaping through them (putting his weight on Angle's neck). Angle rolls into the corner, where Dinero hits his delayed Elbow Drop. He looks for the DDE, but Kurt rolls out of the way and picks an ankle. Dinero kicks him off, but then gets up right into an Olympic Slam.

WINNER: Kurt Angle. That was almost a star-making performance for Dinero as he hung in with Angle. Angle agrees, as he shakes Dinero's hand after the match. Since when does an Olympic Slam keep down anyone?

(4) HOMICIDE vs. ROBERT ROODE

Roode is, contra what Tenay said earlier, wrestling for the tag division. Homicide ambushes Roode from behind. Roode briefly creates some distance, so Homicide rolls to the outside and yanks Roode out with him. He rakes Roode's back and kicks his head. He rolls Roode back in and kicks him in the side of the head. He charges Roode in the corner and works some quick strikes. Roode suddenly comes back with a series of chops out of nowhere, so Homicide whips him into the corner. Homicide stomps on him, and locks in the oddly dull Asiatic Spike. Roode gets away but bounces back into a Spinning Elbow. Roode reverses an Irish Whip, but lowers his head too soon and gets nailed with a kick. Homicide tries to finish him off with a Gringo Cutter but gets tossed off. Roode gets him with a Decapitator Clothesline and a huge Tilt-a-Whirl Back Breaker for two. Homicide gets a questionably low blow and goes for a Gringo Killer. Its reversed into a Payoff attempt, which is re-reversed into a Cutter attempt, which Roode fights off. Homicide bounces back into a Spine Buster by Roode for the kill.

WINNER: Robert Roode. All of these matches have been great examples of lightning fast action.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2009, 02:38 am
(5) TRACI BROOKS vs. HAMADA vs. ALISSA FLASH vs. VELVET SKY vs. LACEY VON ERICH vs. MADISON RAYNE vs. SARITA vs. TAYLOR WILDE vs. TARA vs. DAFFNEY
Battle Royal, with special guest enforcer ODB for the #1 contendership

Taz makes an inappropriate reference to Von Erich's "ugly stick". Hamada takes Daffney out and over right to start. Flash tries to take out Traci, but Traci lands on the apron. Flash tries to fight her off, but Wilde and Sarita sneak up behind her and toss her over; Flash lands on the apron as well. She continues to fight Traci, until both are simultaneously dropkicked to the floor by Wilde and Sarita. They continue at each other's throats from the ground.

The Beautiful People are working over Sarita, and flip her over the rope. Hamada shoots Wilde off into the corner. Wilde catches her with a Leg Scissors and takes her over, but accidentally falls out herself. The Beautiful People are beating Tara around the ring, but when Rayne charges Tara Back Body Drops her over the top. Rayne lands on the apron, but when Sky charges Tara steps aside and knocks Rayne off. Sky briefly holds her own, and even tries to hurl Tara out. Tara reverses and tosses Velvet Sky to the apron. Sky connects with a shoulder thrust, but when she tries to come back in with a Spingboard-something Tara meets her with a Superkick to take her out.

WINNER: Tara. ODB raises her hand, but when Tara looks to share a swig of ODB's flask, ODB doesn't seem all that impressed by Tara.

(6) BOBBY LASHLEY (w/CRISTAL) vs. DESMOND WOLFE

Taz and Tenay argue over Wolfe-Angle was obviously the match of the year. Lashley locks in a Full Nelson, which I guess he picked up from his experience with the Master Lock Challenge. Wolfe just walks over to the ropes and gets the break. Wolfe tries for a wrist lock, but it's immediately reversed into one by Lashley. Wolfe tries to flip out, but Lashley hangs on. He tries to roll into some sort of choke, but Lashley still holds on, and knocks Wolfe off. An attempt to transition into a side headlock doesn't work well either. Wolfe backs Lashley into the ropes, but as the ref breaks it up Wolfe connects with a cheap shot elbow to the face. He locks in that Tazmission-y thing, but Lashley powers out quickly. They trade hammerlocks, but when Lashley ends up near the ropes Wolfe kicks them up into Lashley's throat. He goes for another running back elbow, but Lashley dodges and connects with a Spear. Lashley connects with an Inverted Shock Treatment and a Full Nelson Slam, but Wolfe kicks out after a long two count. Lashley picks Wolfe up and is about to get a Dragon Sleeper when Wolfe wrenches Lashley's arm and brings him to the mat. Wolfe goes for the Tower of London, but Lashley drops to his feet and right into the Dragon Sleeper. Wolfe gets over to the ropes, and when Lashley breaks his hold Wolfe locks in one of his own, wrapping Lashley's arm around the ring rope. Wolfe taunts into the camera, but in so doing loses track of the five count and gets himself disqualified.

WINNER: Bobby Lashley by DQ—lame.

(7) KURT ANGLE vs. ROBERT ROODE

Angle starts things off with a shoulder block on Roode, but Roode bounces right up. Angle backs Roode up into the corner and starts hitting straight right hands. Roode blocks one and comes back with a few of his own. He shoots Angle off into the ropes, misses the Back Body Drop but connects with the Reverse Neck Breaker for two. A Body Slam and a Leg Drop get two more. Roode Snapmares Angle down and floats over into another Neck Breaker. Before he can capitalize Angle flings him out of the ring. Kurt follows Roode out and bangs his head into the steel steps. He rolls him back in for a cover that barely gets two. A Suplex gets two more, so Angle locks into a reverse gut-wrench. Roode powers out but gets taken back down with the Belly-to-Belly Suplex for two. Angle Snapmares Roode back down and locks in a Body Scissors. Roode gets out, but Kurt transitions into a chin lock. Roode fights out of that two. Angle shoots him into the corner, but he gets his boot up and gets his float over Neck Breaker off the middle rope. Both men are down for seven, then fight to their knees, and eventually their feet. Roode gets the advantage, connecting with a big flying forearm for two. Angle suddenly picks an ankle, but Roode kicks him off. Kurt bounces back off the ropes and into a Spine Buster, but this time it only gets two. He looks for a Payoff, but Kurt slips out and connects with a German Suplex. Angle stalks Roode for an Olympic Slam, but it's reversed into an Arm Drag. Angle dodges a charge and connects right away with another Olympic Slam, but this one only gets two. Desmond Wolfe comes down to ringside and spits in Kurt's face. Angle goes to beat him up, and does so for about nine seconds before realizing that he should charge back to the ring. He makes it by 11, but that doesn't count.

WINNER: Robert Roode by count out. That BS ending made more sense, though it did make the other one retroactively less silly.

(8) ROBERT ROODE vs. BOBBY LASHLEY (w/CHRISTAL)
#1 Contender's Match for the Tag Team and/or World Heavyweight Championship

Lashley backs Roode into a corner, but grants the clean break. He connects with a sudden gut wrench and tries to turn it into the Dragon Sleeper, but Roode is right by the ropes. Roode gets a side headlock. Lashley shoots him off into the ropes; they trade leapfrogs, with Lashley eventually connecting for the advantage. He connects with a Body Slam and an Elbow Drop. He shoots Roode off into the corner; Roode tries to float over, but gets caught in position for a Power Slam. He slips out and shoves Lashley into the ring post. He yanks Lashley down to the mat.

Lashley is fighting off his knees when we get back. The crowd seems moderately excited by what they've been seeing. Roode takes Lashley into the corner and connects with some chops. He continues work on the left arm, taking Lashley down with a weak looking Fujiwara Arm Bar. Lashley is able to reach out his leg to the rope to break the hold. Lashley tries to punch his way back into it, but Roode takes him back down. He suddenly ducks clothesline and connects with a Full Nelson Slam. He hits a few clotheslines of his own. He takes Roode up for a Back Breaker, but Roode slips out and takes Lashley down with an Arm Bar Takedown for two. Roode looks for a Payoff, but Lashley hoists him up with a standing Back Body Drop. Lashley charges Roode in the corner, but Roode dodges. Roode connects with the Pay Off, but it only gets two. Lashley charges at him; he gets a boot up, but when Roode tries for the float over Neck Breaker Lashley dodges and connects with the Spear for the 1-2-3.

WINNER: Bobby Lashley.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 29 2009, 01:24 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-27-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37031.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- CRYME TYME vs. THE HART DYNASTY

You have GOT to be kidding me. They could put out a three-disc DVD of the televised matches between these two teams at this point. And that would be only the last six months. Tyson Kidd got the best of JTG, allowing David Hart Smith to tag in and hit a back-breaker. Kidd back in for a near-fall. Rear chin-lock, then Kidd again tagged in to up the action quotient. Striker continued to complain about the “questionable footwear” of JTG. Both legal men made tags and Shad came in and hit a second-rope shoulder tackle. A pin was broken up by Kidd. Smith, from behind, landed a Saito suplex on Gaspard to get the win.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty, at 4:32. And again, nothing accomplished in this feud.

2- C.M. PUNK vs. MATT HARDY

They went to break seconds after the match started.

Punk was working on Matt’s arm out of break. Hardy missed a shoulder charge in the corner, hitting his shoulder on the ring-post. But Hardy caught Punk coming off the top with a Side Effect for two. Matt peppered Punk with some right hands in the middle of the ring. Bulldog by Hardy out of the corner. To the middle rope, legdrop for Hardy. Instead of capitalizing, he waited for Punk to get to his feet to hit him with the Twist of Fate. Gallows got on the apron and reached into the ring, bending Matt back over the top rope for the DQ.

WINNER: Hardy, via DQ, at 5:42. More of a way to “audition” Gallows.

Gallows continued the attack after the match, and held Matt for Punk to hit a spin kick in the gut of Hardy. Running knee to the face in the corner by Punk as Gallows held Matt. Punk laid in the elbows to the chest of Matt. Wade is going to be disappointed- no more “Biscuits and Gravy.” Galloway with what could be called a reverse full-nelson, then he picked Matt up and slammed him back-first into the mat. Kind of impressive. They didn’t have Gallows talk in this segment, so I’m sure they’re saving that for down the line.

3- BATISTA vs. KANE- #1 CONTENDER’S MATCH

How low can we go? Striker mentioned that the black glove Kane wears was the only thing left in the rubble when his house burned down as a child (by Taker, of course). Ah Striker, the master of ret-con. Or was that in Kane’s book? After a short standoff, the fight went to the outside, where Kane’s head was bounced off the padded railing. Back in the ring, low dropkick for two by Kane. Kane with some right hands on the Animal in the corner, but Big Dave came back with a rake of the face. Shoulders in the gut by Batista. Rear chin-lock, but Batista was backed into the corner by his opponent. Back elbow by Batista for two, then another rest-hold. Kane got to his feet and grabbed Batista by the throat, but Batista grabbed the ropes for a break. Kicks to the knee of Kane, and he tried a Batista Bomb. Kane back-dropped him and Kane seemed to want a powerbomb. Batista went back to work on the leg of Kane in the corner. He was down as Batista recuperated on his feet. They went to break about 5:00 into the match.

Batista was still working on the leg as we got a few replays of what happened during the break, mostly leg-related. Well, when one guy is on the mat almost the entire time, it’s a lot harder for this match to completely suck. Uh-oh, Batista brought Kane to his feet and the two traded soupbones. Kane, still holding his leg, got a clothesline in the corner. He got a foot up on a Batista charge and it found a place in Dave’s mush for two. Kane, to the top, but he missed a clothesline and came down hard on his injured leg. Spear by Batista, right into a cover, but only for two. Kane BARELY got Batista up for a sidewalk slam. Again, he went to the top. This time, he connected on the clothesline. He set up for the vaunted chokeslam, but Batista turned around and saw it. Kane charged the corner, but Batista dropped him face-first over the top buckle. He took out Kane’s leg again and got himself pumped up. Batista Bomb, no, Kane went after the knee of Batista. Chokeslam city, but Batista got his foot on the rope to break up the pin. He even had trouble doing that cleanly. Batista rolled out of the ring, but Kane followed, not allowing a break. Kane whipped Batista into the barricade, and Batista flipped into the timekeeper’s bay in an impressive spot. Batista though, caught Kane in the leg as Kane went after him. Batista got back into the ring at the count of eight, while Kane couldn’t make it back in.

WINNER: Batista, at 14:27. WWE clearly had confidence in these guys to give them nearly 15 minutes, despite what could happen. Still, a much better match than I anticipated, with a relatively good story. But did they really need to protect Kane with a count-out? Or give Batista a weak win as he goes to challenge Taker at TLC?

4- ERIC ESCOBAR vs. JOHN MORRISON- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Morrison took Escobar to the mat, then to the outside, where Morrison landed his springboard moonsault (though Escobar had to wait around a little too long to catch him). Vickie grabbed Morrison as he went back in, allowing Escobar to come back outside and ram Morrison’s back into the apron. Bearhug back in the ring by Escobar. Side suplex for two. Morrison caught Escobar with a heel kick coming off the ropes. Batista-like shoulders into the gut of Morrison by Escobar. Flying Chuck kick connected and Morrison set up for the Starship Pain. It landed and garnered him the win.

WINNER: Morrison, at 3:19. I still think Escobar has something to offer, though he appeared to have trouble keeping up with Morrison here at times.

5- CHRIS JERICHO vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Taker cornered Jericho and worked him over, then Taker went Old School, jumping HIGH off the top rope as he brought his arm down across Jericho. Jericho tried to come back, but Taker shrugged him off and clotheslined him over the top rope. Batista stared coldly at Taker in the ring as they went to break about a minute and-a-half in.

The Smackdown /WWE logo in the bottom corner that usually signals them signing off appeared as they came back from break. Taker continued punishing Jericho, and hit a legdrop with Jericho draped under the bottom rope. Taker continued striking Jericho as Batista got up from the announce table and approached. Before he could get too close, Taker felt his presence, turned around and Batista slowly went back to his seat. As Taker tried to get back in the ring, Jericho dropkicked him off the apron. He threw the Dead Man into the stairs as Striker literally begged Batista for some insight. He did put the headset back on, but said nothing. Jericho continued on offense once the two went back into the ring. Rear chin-lock, and Jericho managed to get a lot of trash talk in while he grounded Taker. High dropkick by Jericho caught Taker as he came off the ropes. That got a two-count. Counter by Taker into a side suplex. Snake Eyes by Taker, then a running boot. Jericho battled out of a chokeslam, and hit with a running bulldog, then a Lionsault. Taker, out of nowhere, with a hand to the throat. Chokeslam was next and he set up for the Tombstone, but Batista interfered with a shot to the knee, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Undertaker, via DQ, at 11:57.

Jericho got a Codebreaker on Taker. Batista retrieved a chair from ringside and lashed Taker with it several times. No real confirmation that it will be a “Chairs Match,” but Striker did say chairs would be legal in the match. After a replay, of the finish Batista with the chair was your closing image.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 02 2009, 01:36 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-30-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37078.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Divas champion MELINA & GAIL KIM vs. MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL

Melina and Maryse were going to start, but Maryse played the heel and backed off to her corner to tag in Jillian without mixing it up with Melina. Maryse eventually picked her spot and picked up a win over the champion to get her hand raised and establish herself as the #1 contender to Melina's title.

WINNER: Maryse & Jillian at 2:57. Okay tag match. Jillian is a good enough secondary heel and she kept the match going before the ultimate finish to set up Maryse as the next contender to the women's division title on Raw. (1/2*)

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KOFI KINGSTON

The bell sounded after the ref checked with Kofi one more time, then Orton quickly went after the knee that was softened up by Legacy. The crowd tried to rally behind Kofi as Orton took apart the knee. Orton stalked Kofi then went back to attacking the knee. Ref threatened to DQ him, but he inexplicably didn't DQ Orton. WWE is quite inconsistent with how much leeway referees are given to determine DQs. Orton backed away, then Kofi made a brief comeback, but Orton finished him off with the RKO for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Orton picked up Kingston and wanted to continue the attack. He put Kingston in the corner and executed his elevated DDT straight into the mat after a pause for added effect. Orton did his viper-like stalk to go with his evil-eyes facial expression to sell the attack. Crowd chanted, "Randy sucks" to help sell the angle. Orton's music hit again as the announcers talked about Orton being a tortured soul and obsessed with revenge on Kingston, who seemingly pushed Orton too far.

WINNER: Orton at 3:08. The match outcome sets up Kingston for revenge at a later date, but why they went this route of Kingston taking a pinfall loss was questionable. Orton was at least awesome as the classic Orton heel getting his revenge on Kingston for the past few weeks. Good to see Orton strong again. Now they can set up a strong comeback from Kingston. (n/a)

3 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. MARK HENRY -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Miz tried to mount Henry in the corner to attack him with right hand blows. They cut to a shot of Troyer sitting on stage with the same peculiar facial expression he's maintained the entire show. Miz came back on Henry with a kick strike to the chops for a two count. Miz then tried a springboard splash, but Henry caught Miz in mid-air with the World's Strongest Slam for the easy pin and the win. Announcers said this puts Henry in the U.S. Title chase. Post-match: Henry walked on stage and met with Troyer, who wanted to bring the ladies out for a celebration. Out came the Bella Twins, Kelly Kelly, and Eve for some highly awkward dancing. Henry then lifted Troyer on his shoulders to complete the dance number.

WINNER: Henry at 2:01. Miz can get his heat back from the loss, but this did absolutely nothing for him. It's one thing for the heel champion to be chased by potential contenders and show weaknesses that make a potential title chase intriguing, but it's completely different just to toss him aside with a basic squash. It would be like exposing the villain, capturing the villain, and throwing him behind bars in the opening scene of CSI and having nothing left to intrigue the audience for the next 55 minutes. It simply defies logic. This whole show has defied logic. I'm starting to think WWE has already packed up the plane to Iraq because they're phoning this one. (n/a)

4 -- Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO vs. TRIPLE H (w/Shawn Michaels)

Less than a minute into the match, Big Show's music hit and he stomped out to the ring still sporting a suit. Hunter was distracted, which allowed Jericho to take control. Show knocked over the cameraman and the screen went blank momentarily, then Show walked over to the announce table as they cut to break.

Back from break, Jericho was in control as Show was now positioned ringside on commentary. Line-up from left to right was Michaels, Lawler, Cole, and Show. Michaels and Show debated their respective abilities to climb a ladder before the top of the hour.

Hunter made his comeback at the top of the hour so everyone flipping channels for the over-run could see him in control and looking strong. Hunter then missed with a clothesline and Jericho grazed Hunter with an enziguiri kick for a two count. Jericho tried to follow with a Lionsault, but Hunter got his knees up to block. Hunter and Jericho then had a "boo, yay" punch exchange before Hunter exploded on Jericho with a clothesline for a two count. After Hunter scored a close nearfall, Show got up from his seat and KO Punched Hunter. Ref didn't see it, but he booted him. In the confusion, Michaels landed a superkick on Jericho. Ref turned around and saw Michaels involved, so he booted him. With the extra participants cleared from ringside, the match resumed with Hunter and Jericho KO'ed on the mat. Hunter stirred at eight, then Jericho at nine. Both men were up at nine, then Jericho wanted the codebreaker, but Hunter blocked and rolled up Jericho with a slight hook of the tights to put Jericho on the mat for the pin and the win. Next week, it's Jericho vs. DX in a handicap match.

WINNER: Hunter at 11:13. Good, basic TV main event selling one of the PPV main events at TLC. Good drama at the end with the extra involvement to build tension for the finish. Easily the best segment on an otherwise bad episode of Raw with WWE already halfway to Iraq on several fronts. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 05 2009, 03:16 pm
Former WWE star Umaga (Eddie Fatu) was removed from life support earlier this afternoon, reports WWE announcer Jim Ross, who says he spoke with a friend of Fatu's family.

Fatu's official death is expected to be announced this evening. He was on life support at a North Houston hospital after his wife found him unresponsive this morning at his home in Spring, Texas.

Fatu reportedly suffered a massive heart attack. We reported originally that Fatu was found bleeding from his mouth and nose when he was found in his home.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 05 2009, 03:19 pm
To check out the results of this week's TV shows, check out Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #9554 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2869423&postcount=9554) and posts thereafter or click the TOKYOPOP link in my signature for my wrestling blog.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 09 2009, 01:24 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37226.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. CARLITO -- non-title match

Carlito was aggressive early on with blows to the face as Lawler danced around the topic of wrestlers in the locker room being jealous of Cena's spot. Carlito scored an early nearfall that put Cena in jeopardy, but Cena shook off a busted bottom lip and started to set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle routine, but Sheamus's music interrupted. Sheamus came out on stage and Cuban hopped over the railing to stand between Sheamus and Cuban. Cuban told Sheamus to stop in his tracks, then local independent wrestlers dressed as security showed up to stand in-between Sheamus and Cuban. Back in the ring, Cena was distracted, which allowed Carlito to jump Cena from behind. Carlito wanted the backstabber, but Cena transitioned in mid-air to the Attitude Adjustment for the pin and the win. Afterward, Cena high-fived Cuban and Mavs players ringside including Shawn Marion.

WINNER: Cena at 3:03. Seemed like a random match thrown out there, but with a back-story involving Carlito. It was also odd to see Cena early on Raw, as WWE usually saves him for the end of the show. The whole thing was odd without the 15-minute opening talking heads segment to start the show. (n/a)

2 -- LEGACY (TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES) vs. PRIMO & EVAN BOURNE

They joined the action in progress and Cole said Cuban was watching Superstars on Thursday to book this re-match. C'mon, Cole. Legacy cut off Primo throughout the early going as Cuban clapped and encouraged Primo from ringside. Cody and Primo then butted heads in the corner and Primo went to the usual babyface corner, but they switched up the corners and Bourne was in the usual heel corner. Bourne took a hot tag and started flying on folks before going up top. DiBiase cut him off, though, and teased a superplex, but Bourne shoved DiBiase down and landed his double knee smash. Cody broke up a pin attempt, though, and Primo yanked him to the ground. Bourne wanted a kick strike back in the ring, but DiBiase hit Dream Street from behind for the win.

Post-match: Cuban got in Justin Roberts's ear to give him an announcement. Roberts announced that Cuban is having Cody and Ted ejected from the AAC. Legacy threw a fit, but out came the indy security to escort Legacy away from ringside. So, they're removed from the Orton vs. Kofi situation for later on.

WINNERS: Legacy at 3:33. Short tag match to give Legacy a win, but then have them get immediate comeuppance to cover for another Bourne loss. Fine angle to build up Orton vs. Kofi later on. (3/4*)

3 -- MARYSE vs. GAIL KIM

Well, that was quick. Maryse picked up a quick win in less than two minutes to continue building her up to face Melina for the Divas Title. Post-match, Maryse stomped out of the ring and approached Kelly Kelly "Mean Girls" style. She cut a promo on Kelly, who then shoved her and a cat fight was on ringside. Suddenly, Melina stormed out to ringside and cleared away Maryse, who smiled her heel smile from the opposite side of the ring. Melina checked on Kelly ringside to close the segment.

WINNER: Maryse at 1:43. Basic, short divas match where the post-match angle took precedent. (n/a)

4 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Kofi and Orton locked up and Kofi drove Orton to the corner before clotheslining Orton over the top rope to the floor. Kofi then bounced off the opposite ropes and nailed a suicide dive through the ropes on the floor. Kofi rolled Orton back into the ring, but missed with a corner splash back in the ring. Orton then hit a knock-down clothesline to slow down Kofi and begin a methodical attack.

Orton slowly paced the ring to draw boos as Cuban stood back in the corner observing the proceedings. Orton landed a knee drop, then settled into a good old fashioned Orton reverse chinlock to wear down Kingston. Crowd rallied behind Kofi, then Orton started jawing with Cuban, who pointed to his referee t-shirt to remind Orton what's up. Kofi made a comeback, then fired off a bunch of right hands and Cuban interjected to break up before a five count. Kofi then followed up with more right hands and European Uppercut. Kofi followed with the Boom Drop before beginning his hand clap motion to set up his finisher. Orton ducked Trouble in Paradise, then dropped Kofi with his fallaway backbreaker move. Orton shot Cuban a glare, then he pounded his fists on the mat to stalk Kofi for the RKO. Kofi blocked, though, and put Orton in the backslide pin where Cuban made the fastest three count ever to give Kofi the win.

Post-match: The crowd popped and Orton was seething in the ring after getting screwed by Cuban. Cuban told Orton he waited six years for payback and now he got him. Cuban then booked Orton vs. Kofi in the rubber match at TLC. Cole liked the sound of that and said each one has a win "albeit...under weird circumstances." It was just funny how Cole emphasized "weird." Cuban then celebrated with Kofi to close the segment.

WINNER: Kingston at 5:23. Fine, albeit short match between these two. WWE isn't expecting the match-up to sell the PPV, so they're obviously not too concerned about protecting the match-up for PPV. The chemistry between Kofi and Orton was good for five minutes. (**)

5 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. MARK HENRY -- U.S. Title match

They had an early spot to get the crowd involved where Henry teased sitting on Miz's face after blocking a sunset flip, but Miz moved and went on the attack. Henry came back, though, and went for a gorilla press, only to have Miz gouge Henry in the eyes to avoid the attack. Miz then dropkicked Henry to the floor before dropkicking Henry head-first into the ring steps. Henry then re-entered the ring and Miz wanted a top rope splash, but Henry caught him in mid-air. Henry wanted the World's Strongest Slam, but Miz countered in mid-air with a swinging DDT. Miz then made the pin for the win. Whoa. Lawler built up Miz for "turning it up a notch" with the title on the line.

WINNER: Miz at 2:37. Miz with a clean pin on Henry. And now we're Even-Steven after last week, but Miz's win was pretty strong this week. It sure looked like they were going to have retain via count-out, so the finish exceed expectations for building up Miz as a credible threat in the ring. (*)

6 -- HORNSWOGGLE & EVE vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & JILLIAN

WWE didn't give the audience any indication why this match was taking place. Anyways, the match started with Hornswoggle vs. Chavo, then Eve and Jillian battled for a bit. Jillian tried a handspring smash, but Eve got her knees up. Eve then hit a handspring splash and scored the pin for the win. Post-match: Chavo teased taking out Hornswoggle again, but Eve stood up to Chavo. Chavo then chucked Horny down, Suddenly, Chris Masters entered the ring and took off his dress shirt. He confronted Chavo and sold he wanted a piece of Chavo. Chavo then pounded on Masters's money-making pecs a few too many times, prompting Masters to begin flexing his left pec. Chavo checked down at his pecs to see he didn't have that kind of power. Eve was kind of grossed out. Chavo then tried a clothesline, but Masters ducked and put him in the Masterlock before delivering a full-nelson slam. Masters then checked on Eve to make sure she was okay before flexing his pecs some more and Eve smiled and giggled. Masters left with Eve, then Horny tried to flex his pecs, but he realized he didn't have that power either. So, he just delivered some crotch chops in Chavo's direction.

WINNERS: Horny & Eve at 2:20. Don't ask for an explanation. We're just going to move along. (n/a)

7 -- DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. Unified tag champion CHRIS JERICHO -- handicap match

Jericho and Michaels started things off, then Hunter tagged in and worked over Jericho. DX began exchanging tags before Michaels blasted Jericho with a chop across the chest. Lawler said many people in the "WWE Universe" were enjoying this beating on Jericho, who had nowhere to go to avoid punishment. Suddenly, Jericho shoved the ref into Hunter. With the ref down, Big Show lightly jogged to ringside and palmed Shawn Michaels by the head to give him a headbutt. Show started landing clubbing blows, but Hunter had a chair. He put it across Show's back, then Show turned around and was not happy. Show then punched the chair and the chair kinda sorta deflected into Hunter's face. Michaels tried to pull out a ladder, but Jericho dropkicked it into Michaels's stomach. Show then rammed the ladder into Hunter and Michaels's stomachs before Jericho and Show placed DX inside the ladder like a sandwich. Show held the top rung down for Jericho to crack the chair over the ladder, with the object for DX to feel the reverberations. Jericho then grabbed the tag belts and yelled "never, never, never" down at DX. Jericho then climbed the ladder and stood atop the ladder while DX sold pain on the mat. Show's music played as the tag champs were in control.

WINNER: No decision or announcement around 3:35. The obvious conclusion is that DX gets the belts on Sunday, but WWE could just find another way for JeriShow to get their comeuppance without DX winning the belts. DX doesn't need the belts, so WWE probably went this route to get folks worked up to order the PPV to see JeriShow just take a beating for 15 minutes in the TLC match before Jericho grabs the belts by the skin of his teeth to win. (*)

The final 15 minutes of the show had Sheamus knock out John Cena and throw Mark Cuban through a table.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 09 2009, 01:39 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-7-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRosenroll's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37234.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE BRISCOES (JAY BRISCOE & MARK BRISCOE) vs. KEVIN STEEN & EL GENERICO

Mark started off against Steen and they had a good opening exchange of chain wrestling and mat wrestling. Steen was in control until Mark got free, started running the ropes, took down Steen with a running leg lariat, and tagged out to Jay at 1:30. Generico tagged in to face Jay and the two had a fast-paced lucha style exchange. Jay got the advantage thanks to a running elbow and the Briscoes isolated Generico in their corner at 3:00. The Briscoes worked over Generico with some of their trademarks moves until Generico backflipped out of a back suplex attempt by Mark, hit a back suplex of his own, then tagged out to Steen at 5:00. Steen went for a flip dive off the top rope, but Mark got his knees up then tagged out to Jay and the Briscoes maintained the advantage.

Steen made a comeback at 6:00 when Mark’s surgically-repaired knee buckled while he was attempting to lift Steen for a bodyslam. Steen went after the knee with a dragon screw, then tagged Generico back in. Generico and Steen isolated Mark in their corner and worked over his knee. Mark finally made a comeback at 8:30, hit Steen with a couple of punches to the chin and a suplex, then reached Jay for the hot tag. Jay unleashed a flurry running strikes on both Steen and Generico, then landed a Death Valley driver on Steen for a near fall at 10:00. Mark tagged back in, but his knee buckled again when he attempted to lift Steen, allowing Steen to regain the advantage. Steen went to the top rope, but Jay intervened to keep Steen from landing a move on Mark. This prompted Generico to come after Jay, and Generico landed a spectacular running flip dive to take out Jay on the floor at 11:30.

Steen and Generico continued to tag in and out, taking turns working over Mark’s knee. At 12:30, Steen went for the Sharpshooter, but Jay broke it up with a superkick. Generico and Jay began fighting in the ring. Jay got the upper hand and the Briscoes hit the Doomsday Device on Generico at 13:00, but Generico was not the legal man for his team. Steen had recovered from Jay’s superkick by now and caught Jay with a superkick, then powerbombed Mark and locked in the Sharpshooter again. Mark teased tapping out, but managed to grab the ropes at 14:00. Steen then tried for his package piledriver finisher on Mark, but Mark countered it into an ace crusher. Jay then hit a running clothesline-Jay driller combination on Steen, and Mark made the pin.

WINNERS: The Briscoes in 14:30. Excellent match, helped by a hot crowd and excellent commentary from Hogewood and Prazak. The match built up logically and the finishing sequence was very well done.

- After the match, Hogewood and Prazak reinforced that the Briscoes will now face the American Wolves at Final Battle in two weeks. Hogewood also raised the question of what the loss will mean for the careers of Steen and Generico. Excellent job of making the match seem important.

2 – ROH World champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. KENNY OMEGA vs. RODERICK STRONG vs. DAVEY RICHARDS (with Shane Hagadorn, Eddie Edwards, and Sara Del Rey) -- Four-way ROH World Title match

Aries started the match by cheap-shotting Richards and scurrying out of the ring. As Richards chased after Aries, Omega caught Richards with a rollup for a near fall. Aries pulled Omega out of the ring and they began fighting on the outside while and Richards and Strong began fighting in the ring. Prazak complained that it was unfair to Aries that he could lose the World Title without being pinned in this match. Hogewood said Aries brought it on himself with his misbehavior in recent weeks. At 1:00, Aries grabbed Richards by the ankle and pulled him outside. Richards followed the action outside and all four men began fighting on the outside.

At 2:00, Strong tried to haul Aries back into the ring, but Aries gouged Strong’s eyes as Strong tried to lift him into the ring, then sent Strong back to the outside with a hangman neckbreaker on the ropes. Omega climbed to the top on the opposite side of the ring and landed a missile drop kick on Aries. Omega followed this up with a high-energy flurry of his trademark offensive moves on Aries, while Strong and Richards fought on the floor. Omega clotheslined Aries over the top rope to the floor at 3:30, then went to the top rope to set up a dive onto Aries on the floor, but Richards came back into the ring and stopped Omega with a running boot. Richards then began working over Omega with his trademark hard strikes and power moves, while Strong and Aries fought on the floor. Omega sold very well for Richards’ offence. Richards went for a pin at 5:30 but Strong rushed into the ring to break it up. Strong and Richards then got into a painful-looking chop exchange. Richards grounded Strong with a chin breaker-bodyslam combination, then went to the top, but Aries came from the outside to knock Richards to the floor and opportunistically landed a frog splash on Strong in the ring for a near fall at 6:00.

Aries continued working over Strong in the ring until Strong managed to dodge Aries’s running dropkick in the corner. Before Strong could follow up, Omega intervened and attacked Strong. This started a fast-paced sequence where each wrestler would hit a move or two on another, only to be cut off by a move or two from another wrestler, and so on. The sequence ended with Omega and Strong down selling the moves they’d taken and Aries and Richards having an exchange in the middle of the ring. Aries threw Richards to the outside and attempted his trademark heat seeking missile dive, but Richards stopped him with a hard boot to the head as Aries flew head first between the first and second ropes. Aries and Richards began fighting on the outside until Strong dove over the top rope onto both of them at 8:30. Just as the three got back to their feet, Omega came over the top rope with a spectacular flip dive to take them all out.

At 9:00, Omega rolled Aries back into the ring to press his advantage. Omega tried to set up Aries for a electric chair superplex in the corner, but Aries managed to free himself and kick Omega back to the mat. Before Aries could climb down from the top rope, Richards came in and caught Aries with an incredible German superplex at 9:30. Richards followed this up with a running leg lariat and a German suplex into a bridge pin on Aries, but Omega broke up the pin. Omega attempted an electric chair suplex on Richards, but Aries broke it up and Richards rolled out of the ring. Omega then landed an electric chair suplex on Aries, but Strong broke up the subsequent pin attempt at 11:00. Strong and Omega exchanged forearms in the ring until Aries came back in as the third man and threw Omega to the outside. Strong landed a hard running boot on Aries and tried for a pin, but Richards broke it up at 12:00. Aries rolled out of the ring as Omega came back in with a flurry of hard strikes and power moves on both Strong and Richards.

Just a Hogewood said “Omega is the one who has shown the most in this match,” Richards and Strong turned the tables on Omega and sent him to the outside with an alarm clock-running boot double team at 13:30. This left Strong and Richards alone in the ring. The two former No Remorse Corps stable mates had a long stare down, spit at each other, then had an intense exchange of hard strikes. Richards got the upper hand and tried for a DR driver, but Strong countered it into a gut-buster attempt that Richards countered that into a cloverleaf submission hold. Strong countered the cloverleaf into a small package for a very close near fall. Strong followed up with a powerbomb on Richards, but Aries opportunistically came in from the outside, punt kicked Strong as Strong went for the cover, then stole the pin on Richards.

WINNER: Aries in 15:00 to retain the ROH World Title. Outstanding four-way match with great action throughout. Omega, the least established of the four wrestlers, got plenty of time to shine to elevate him, and the finishing sequence between Strong and Richards was breathtaking. The finish was the right one, since the title should not change hands on a four way on television with almost no build up. Overall, this was one of the best four-way matches I have seen in years. The last four-way match I enjoyed this much was the Samoa Joe-Low Ki-Dan Maff-B.J. Whitmer four-way at the ROH Second Anniversary Show way back in 2004.

- After the match, Hogewood said “Austin Aries’ day is coming, I know it.” Just then, the lights in the arena went out and Tyler Black’s music hit. When the lights came back on, Black was on the entrance stage pointing at Aries. Hogewood said, “The Day of Reckoning has come for Aries!” Black pulled his shirt off and looked like he was going to charge the ring when the show abruptly ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 10 2009, 12:31 pm
ECW On SyFy Results: 12-8-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37259.shtml)

Prior to the ECW taping starting, Goldust came out for the dark match to start the taping. Kaval (Low-Ki) was his opponent. Kaval cut a promo about his discipline and knowledge making him far superior than the fans. Basically, C.M. Punk's "I'm better than you" promos with a twist. And Ki's deep, unique voice.

Dark match: Goldust beat Kaval at 3:52. Crowd was into the match with Kaval flailing around to sell for Goldust. He seems to have studied some Chris Jericho tapes on "playing to the top row of the arena." Goldust avoided a top rope double foot stomp, then hit the Final Cut suplex for the win.

1 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. TOMMY DREAMER

It was interesting to see how the audience would react to Archer in his first long-form match on ECW TV. He attempted a leg drop with a big wind-up that drew a reaction when he missed Dreamer completely. It was a nice transition to Dreamer's comeback, including a slow-motion baseball slide dropkick. Dreamer then missed with a Dreamer DDT and Archer followed with the big boot and reverse DDT for the win.

WINNER: Archer at 5:06. Archer has some charisma WWE can cultivate, but he needs more time before he becomes a marketable top tier star on the ECW brand. A fine TV match for five minutes. (*1/4)

2 -- TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT vs. MARK FRANKS & DANNY VAUGHN

Vaughn was given a payday to basically stand on the apron and take a dropkick near the finish. Good work if you can get it. Meanwhile, poor Franks took a beating from the FCW call-ups. Barreta and Croft made quick work of the enhancement talent with the crowd understanding they were the wrestlers being featured since they were actually tan compared to the pale white enhancement talents. Cue up their "Vitamin C" theme music for the win.

WINNERS: Baretta & Croft at 1:50. WWE's just continuing to build up the new tag team. We'll see where it leads since the ECW tag roster is thin (actually non-existent) minus the feuding Kozlov and Jackson. (n/a)

3 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & SHELTON BENJAMIN & YOSHI TATSU vs. WILLIAM REGAL & KOZLOV & EZEKIEL JACKSON

The opening with Christian and Jackson was received well, especially Christian playing cat-and-mouse with Jackson to expose Jackson's "weakness" as a slow, sluggish brute. The heels then isolated Shelton Benjamin for a good while. One man in the crowd was determined to get a "Let's go Shelton" chant started. After shouting himself hoarse, the audience finally picked up on it. Sign Guy then started a slow-clap rallying clap for Shelton, who fought to his feet from a seated position and broke free from Regal. The spot where the referee doesn't see the hot tag to the babyface initially didn't draw a reaction because the audience saw it coming, but they booed when Christian and Yoshi sold their frustration with the ref to the top row of the arena. Eventually, Yoshi took a hot tag and the action broke down. Jackson then wanted a tag to Kozlov, but Kozlov hopped off the apron and started to leave. Jackson chased him down and they brawled ringside while Regal tried to restore order. In the process, Team Regal was counted out.

Post-match: Shelton did a leap over the top rope onto Team Regal that got the flashbulbs popping. Meanwhile, Yoshi disappeared from sight really selling an injury to his jaw/mouth. Christian then grabbed the ladder from the opening segment and set it up in the ring. He scaled the ladder to retrieve the ECW Title belt hanging above the ring, but Shelton suddenly popped to his feet and springboard leapt onto the ladder. You could see how gimmicked the ladder was when it buckled slightly, but absorbed Shelton like the ladder was made of rubber. Christian and Shelton then grabbed hold of the title belt and had a face-to-face, nose-to-nose stare down standing atop the ladder to close the show.

WINNERS: Team Christian at 12:01. The post-match was more important than the in-ring action, as the match was basically six minutes of Shelton selling for the heels. The closing image of Shelton and Christian on top of the ladder was a good sales pitch for the TLC PPV on Sunday. Not the best episode of ECW, but it was effective for advancing the PPV sales pitch and the TV storyline-driven feud between Kozlov and Jackson. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 12 2009, 10:13 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37299.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) THE BRITISH INVASION vs. CHRIS SABIN

Has Doug Williams always been blond? He suddenly reminds me of Bruno. We're told that Nash has banned Alex Shelley from ringside. Sabin and Williams start off with a bit of chain wrestling, culminating in a Side Headlock from Williams. Sabin shoots him off, pops Magnus off the apron, tosses Williams out, and looks to flip out onto them when he's cut off by a shoulder block from Rob Terry. Williams comes back in and chokes Sabin against the corner. Magnus tags in and they hit their Double Union Jack, followed by the Handshake of Doom. Williams tags back in and whips Williams knee first into Sabin. Williams returns the favor by whipping Sabin into a Big Boot from Magnus. He tags in Rob Terry (who the crowd says can't wrestle), who hits a Body Slam, but whiffs on an Elbow Drop. Sabin whips him into the corner. Williams and Magnus come in to help, but Sabin dodges and stacks them up in the corner. He looks for a running kick to all three, but Williams and Magnus get out of the way—Terry still eats it. Magnus and Williams try to strike back with some type of double clothesline, but Sabin dodges and they run right into Terry. While they recover, Sabin hits a quick Tornado Small Package (which I didn't even know was a move) on Terry for the pinfall.

WINNER: Chris Sabin in four minutes. Williams and Magnus are unhappy at their partner. I really hope that this is the start of a MCMG push and not a Rob Terry face turn.

(2) BOBBY & KRISTAL LASHLEY vs. SCOTT STEINER & AWESOME KONG

Nash can book matches with people who aren't TNA employees? Could he have booked me in a match? Steiner has a picture of Kristal on his crotch. Lashley starts things off with a kick to Steiner's gut, a sledge to the back and a Body Slam. Steiner rolls out of the ring and has the ref rebuke Lashley for the use of a closed fist. Lashley follows him out—shouldn't he have just let the match end by count-out? He follows Steiner back into the ring and gets caught by a couple of Knife-Edged Chops. Lashley just powers him onto his shoulders for some type of Rib Breaker. A Suplex gets two. Lashley comes off the ropes but gets tripped up by Awesome Kong. Steiner knocks him down, then floors him with a clothesline when he gets back up. Kong comes in to help out with Lashley, who ducks. Kong inadvertently clotheslines Steiner. While they argue, Lashley clubs Steiner and then takes him over with a T-Bone Suplex. Steiner rolls to the outside, and when Lashley follows him out Steiner whips him into the steel steps near Kristal. She goes to check on Lashley, and might actually have accidentally tagged in. Steiner glares at her, and she backs up into Kong. Kong crushes her and starts to go to the top rope for a big Splash, but Steiner just takes the moderately sexual cover and then does some pushups over her.

WINNERS: Scott Steiner & Awesome Kong in four and a half minutes.

(3) ERIC YOUNG vs. HAMADA
Global Championship Match

They lock up to start. Young backs Hamada into a corner, then pats her on the head. The crowd chants for TNA to fire Eric. He plays to the crowd a bit, only to eat a Spinning Heel Kick. He rolls to the outside, where she follows him with a bunch of quick strikes. EY goes to the corner, and when she charges he gets up a boot—I guess that doesn't count as hitting a woman cause she was moving? His edge doesn't last long, as Hamada gets him with a leaping kick, then takes him down with a top rope Frankensteiner. She goes for a Moonsault, but whiffs. EY makes the cover with the ropes to get the win.

WINNER: Eric Young.

(4) TARA (w/POISON) vs. ODB
Trailer Park Throwdown

In honor of the late Mr. Fatu I will be bringing back the shot-to-the head counter, and this time will keep it cumulative. ODB gives Tara, who's looking like she's going to puke, a bucket, but Tara whacks her with it. ODB rolls to the outside, where ODB whacks her a few more times with some sort of handle. Tara is poised to drop a cooler on ODB's head, but ODB takes a sip and spits some booze in her face. She wraps Tara up in caution tape, then hits her on the back with some sort of tray. She hits a plunger to Tara's butt, and they go back into the ring. There's a ladder set up in the corner, and ODB catapults Tara into it. I'm pretty sure that was protected. ODB starts to climb the ladder, but then randomly decides to bust out a step-ladder instead. A Splash gets two. ODB backs Tara into the corner and chokes her with a tiki torch. Tara flips her out. They get back to their knees. Each of them grabs a trash can, and…uh oh.

Headshot Counter: 7

Tara Body Slams ODB, sets a trashcan lid on top of her, and Moonsaults onto it. She starts to climb for another, but stumbles and falls off the turnbuckles. ODB chokes her out with a steel chain, and uses it to nail a Face Buster onto the chair.

Headshot Counter: 8

WINNER: ODB in six minutes.

(5) HERNANDEZ, MATT MORGAN, & HERNANDEZ vs. TEAM 3D, RHINO, & JESSE NEAL.

Rhino starts things off with a kick to Morgan, but gets backed into the corner for Morgan's back elbows. Devon tags in, but bounces off Morgan. Suicide and Ray tag in as well. Suicide this a few Arm Drags, but Ray powers him down and tags in Jesse Neal. Neal hits a series of clubs in the corner, then tags in Rhino. Rhino keeps working over Suicide, hitting a Spear in the corner. Devon tags back in and beats Suicide to the mat. Devon charges, but Suicide gets a boot up. He takes advantage of the distance to hit a thrusting dropkick. Hernandez and Neal tag in. Hernandez takes down Neal with his Slingshot Shoulder Block, takes down an interfering Rhino and Devon, then pops Ray off the apron. He lifts Neal over with a Back Body Drop, then flies to the outside to take out the other three men. Hernandez comes back in and floors Neal with a Dominator for 1, 2…no! Ray comes in and hits a Bubba Bomb, Morgan takes him out with a Carbon Footprint, and everyone starts hitting finishers in rapid succession. Eventually Hernandez ends up with Devon, whom he nails with the Border Toss, only to turn into a Spear from the legal Neal for the three count.

WINNERS: Team 3D, Rhino, & Jesse Neal? What just happened? Hernandez was kept down by a Spear from JESSE NEAL? B.S.

(6) AJ STYLES vs. DESMOND WOLFE
World Heavyweight Championship Match

Kurt comes down to commentary for the match. Wolfe gets an immediate Full Nelson, then a wrist lock. AJ tries to flip out, but Wolfe blocks him. AJ then does flip through, but Wolfe maintains the hold and gets AJ back down. AJ gets up and hits a Body Slam, but Wolfe still hangs onto the hold. Finally AJ reverses the hold, they trade wrist locks, and eventually AJ shoots him off and gets him with a high dropkick. AJ gets a quick hammerlock, but Wolfe elbows his face. Wolfe tries to run AJ into the turnbuckle, but AJ blocks it. AJ whiffs though on a strike in the corner, and Wolfe connects with his Hammerlock Slam, then the Suplex. He pounds AJ's left arm against the mat, then twists it against the ropes. AJ uses his free hand to fight back, but Wolfe headbutts him back into the corner. He charges right into a Big Boot, and AJ connects with a series of clotheslines and then some sort of Back Breaker to his own knee. Wolfe lifts him up with a Back Body Drop, but AJ lands on the apron and comes back with the Flying Forearm. AJ knocks him down, and as Wolfe falls he kicks AJ in the groin. The ref treats it as an accident, but Wolfe points to his head to let us know that it wasn't. He signals for his lariat, but Daniels comes down and grabs him from the outside. When Wolfe looks at him, AJ sneaks up and gets him with a roll-up into a bridge for three.

WINNER: AJ Styles in five minutes. I like the plot twist, but I would have preferred seeing these two ramp up more quickly if the match was going to be this short. (I realize that wouldn't actually make sense—how would they know in advance it would be a short match?—so I guess this works too).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 12 2009, 10:18 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-10-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37302.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. FINLAY

Having already seen this match at the Smackdown taping on Tuesday, I'm interested to hear the added commentary and catch any possible audio sweetening. Early on, the announcers used Finlay's presence in the ring to talk up Sheamus going into the TLC PPV. After a feeling-out process, Finlay engaged the crowd by trapping Ziggler in the ring apron for his signature move. Back in the ring, Ziggler rammed Finlay in the gut before ramming him head-first into the ringspot. Odd and sad to hear Striker being produced to almost glorify the effects of being hit in the head with a chair to sell Batista vs. Undertaker at the PPV. On cue, the match cut to a break with both men down on the mat after knocking heads in the ring.

Back from break, Striker was still being produced to glorify chair shots to the head. Hurry, order TLC to see wrestlers inflict more punishment to their heads. Ziggler was on the offensive working Finlay's arm and shoulder. Finlay then tried to attack Ziggler in the corner, but Ziggler moved and Finlay hit the turnbuckles. Dazed, Finlay stumbled back into the Zig-Zag finisher from Ziggler for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler in 12:00. Basic, okay singles match. Striker being produced to show enthusiasm for chair shots to the head and the effects of blows to the head was just wrong. Ten years from now with more and more research, people are going to watch this tape and their jaws will be on the floor. (*)

2 -- HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. JIMMY WANG YANG & SLAM MASTER J

Wang and SMJ scored some early high-flying offense, then Yang found himself on the floor. Natalya landed a bodyslam on the floor that generated one of the legit biggest pops of the Smackdown taping during any match on the show. Back in the ring, Smith went to work on Yang as they replayed Natalya's slam on Yang. SMJ took a hot tag at 3:00 and went to work on Kidd with fast-paced offense. Smith then broke up a pin and Yang cleared him to the outside. Back in the ring, though, Kidd blocked a suplex and hit a back kick into a flip-over neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Sweet finish.

WINNER: HD in 4:00. This was better on TV than live at the taping. Nice pace with the camera and production enhancing the high-flying, fast-paced offense throughout the match. Yang and SMJ had enough impressive-looking offense to look strong in defeat. (*1/2)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP

The match started with an early exchange to feel each other out. Lawler after the opening bell: "Did you know MVP's high school newspaper had an obituary column?" Now that Lawler isn't running for mayor in Memphis, he can crack jokes again. MVP had a flurry of offense at 2:00, so Swagger slipped to the outside to recover. MVP told him he was ballin', so Swagger stomped up the ring steps back into the ring to answer. MVP went back on the offensive and teased dropping the Ballin' elbow, but Swagger rolled to the outside. Cole said Swags needed a time-out, but MVP interrupted with a plancha to the floor. MVP in control going to break.

Back from break, MVP was still in control. Lawler suggested MVP "gets up" for Swagger and does his best work in the ring opposite Swagger thanks to the trash talk over the past few months. Swagger then took control working over MVP's left shoulder while MVP's nose was in the canvas. MVP then fired off a round of right hand blows and back-dropped Swagger to the mat before landing a series of clotheslines. MVP then set up the Ballin' elbow drop when he could have made a pin when Swagger was motionless for over three seconds. MVP then wanted the Playmaker, but Swagger held the ropes to block. MVP tried a small package, but Swagger kicked out. Swagger then landed a knee to the gut and MVP just kinda fell down in the corner for Swagger to hit a running Vader bomb for a two count.

Time to go home nearing the top of the hour. MVP blocked a neckbreaker, then he charged Swagger and nailed a big boot right to the head, but Swagger kicked out and MVP sold shock. MVP tried to capitalize, but Swagger dropped MVP face-first on the top turnbuckle and followed right up with the gutwrench powerbomb. Swagger with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Swagger in 12:00. Nice TV main event. Good counters and reversals throughout. The finish was telegraphed early and often, as MVP had tons of offense compared to Swagger to protect MVP before he took the eventual fall. Good conclusion to the show. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 13 2009, 10:51 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-11-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37329.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – LUKE GALLOWS & C.M. PUNK vs. R-TRUTH & MATT HARDY

At one point, when Truth was yelling, “what’s up?” as part of his intro, Punk replied “Straight Edge!” Matt followed Truth and was handing the Hardy DVD to fans. Punk’s indignation and desperate attempts to convince fans not to accept them while Truth was still rapping was funny. Truth gave a cheap-shot to Punk before the match as Punk was yelling at Hardy in the ring.

After Punk recovered, the match began. Punk got in Truth’s face and taunted him. Not Punk’s most sagacious moment, as Truth came back with a clothesline and sent Punk to the outside as they went to break under a minute into the match.

They returned to action about 3:30 into the match. The faces were double-teaming Punk, but Punk came back to hang Truth waist-first on the top rope. Gallows tagged in and registered a gut-buster on Truth. Striker lauded the team of Punk and Gallows, while Grisham reminded him it was their first match together. Scoop slam by Punk for two. The heels isolated Truth and worked him over. Gallows cinched in a bearhug. Belly-to-back suplex by Punk, then some taunts of the fans to draw some more heat. He went for a springboard clothesline, but Truth dropkicked him in the chest as he came down. Matt tagged in and went to work on Punk. Powerbomb-like move out of the corner, then a legdrop off the second rope. Gallows broke up the pin, but Truth took care of him. Punk tossed Truth. Couple of reversals by the legal men. Twist of Fate, but Punk made a blind tag prior to that and Gallows gave him a big boot and his finisher (which Striker called “The 12th Step” and “The Gallows’ Pole”) for the win.

WINNERS: Punk and Gallows, at 8:51. Good tag match to put over the Punk/Gallows relationship.

2 – ERIC ESCOBAR vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Jericho slapped Escobar after a brief face-off, but Escobar came back with some rights. Jumping leg lariat by Escobar, then he walloped Jericho some more in the corner. Sky High by Escobar for only two. He clotheslined Jericho over the top and to the outside. At this point, Vickie came out to make it a two-on-one handicap match with Big Show and Jericho taking on Escobar. You could see that one coming as soon as Jericho was thrown over the top rope.

2 – ERIC ESCOBAR vs. CHRIS JERICHO & THE BIG SHOW – HANDICAP MATCH

Escobar tried for a quick pin before Show got to the ring, but it was unsuccessful. Jericho took over on offense and immediately tagged Show. After about a minute of beating down Escobar, Jericho tagged back in and locked in the Walls of Jericho to pick up the submission victory.

WINNERS: Show and Jericho, at 2:59. I wouldn’t say this makes the champs look especially strong heading into TLC.

3 – KANE vs. MIKE KNOX

During Knox’s entrance, they replayed the finish of last week’s match between these two. Kane got a big boot early on, then a snap-mare, but Knox fled the ring before Kane could hit him with the low dropkick. As he came back in, Kane grabbed him by the throat. Knox elbowed out, then hit a pump kick. Knox kept Kane grounded with elbows and punches. Short-arm clothesline from Knox. Kane got his knees up on a splash, then came the low dropkick. That got a two-count. One-armed sidewalk slam by Kane, an impressive sight. The Big Red Monster missed a clothesline off the top and Knox responded with a cross-body for two. He went for a Knox Out, but Kane countered with a chokeslam for the win.

WINNER: Kane, at 2:55. Knox’s gimmick doesn’t really work when the guy never wins.

4 – MICKIE JAMES & MARIA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA

They officially announced Mickie James vs. Michelle McCool for the Women’s Title at TLC. Maria opened the match with a couple arm-drags on McCool. Michelle recovered and came back with a back-breaker. McCool knocked James off the apron and as the ref tried to restrain James from coming into the ring, the heels took advantage with some double-teaming. Maria fought back with a head-scissor take-down and tagged James. McCool tagged out to Layla, who ate Mickie’s offense. Hair pull took Mickie down, but Layla got nailed with a Thesz Press. Mickie shoved her into McCool, who was on the apron, then rolled Layla up for the win.

WINNERS: Mickie and Maria, at 1:56. The match served its purpose, nothing more.

5- REY MYSTERIO vs. BATISTA – STREET FIGHT

Batista started the match on offense, whipping Rey hard into the buckle. Hard elbow to the chest put Mysterio down again, and got a two-count. Batista really worked over Mysterio, bodyslamming him and paint-brushing the back of Rey’s head. Mysterio finally fought out of a powerslam and took out Dave’s knee. Batista got set up for the 619, but escaped. Rey used some tomfoolery to get into Batista head, stepping over him to get out of the ring, then coming back in when Batista went out after him. Baseball slide and Batista landed hard against the barricade as the show went to break a little under three minutes into the match.

Batista was twisting Rey’s body around the ring post as the show returned. They showed a replay during the break of Batista taking over on offense with a boot to the face and a whip of Rey into the ring steps. He began to whip Mysterio with camera cables at ringside. Batista dropped Rey jaw-first onto the announce table. Hey, I just noticed sign guy in the front row. The Animal worked over the back of Mysterio in the ring. Striker wondered aloud if, because Batista’s milk intake is more than the normal man, and milk strengthens bones, whether it makes Batista’s head harder and requires more chair shots to daze him. I wonder what goes through his mind sometimes. Batista brought a chair into the ring, but Rey came back and prevented him from using it. Mysterio got the 619 and the springboard splash, but only for two. Mysterio whacked Batista in the back with a chair, then went after him with it raised above his head, resulting in him getting speared by Batista. Spinebuster by the big man. Chairshot to the head by Batista, followed by a pin for the win.

WINNER: Batista, at 11:11. Well, Batista has the match at the PPV, so he had to go over here.

Batista went back for seconds, but the lights went out and Taker’s gong sounded. The lights came back on, and Taker was in the ring. He pummeled Batista and grabbed the chair, but Batista escaped before Taker could wield it successfully. Batista crawled up the ramp, trying to catch his breath, as Taker did the throat-slash gesture in Batista’s direction.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 17 2009, 11:08 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-14-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37385.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & GREAT KHALI & KANE vs. WILLIAM REGAL & KOZLOV & EZEKIEL JACKSON

Khali started things off and looked horrible trying to move around. Christian then tagged in and the heels isolated Christian to begin working him over after he took a beating in the ladder match last night. Kane then tagged in and battled with Regal. Jackson then tagged in and clotheslined Kane. He yelled and screamed, but the audience was sitting on their hands. Kozlov then blind-tagged in to upset Jackson. Kane then ran over Kozlov and Khali suddenly tagged in and delivered a big right hand chop to Kozlov for the pin and the win. Regal was frustrated with his bad luck post-match. Khali did a little dance post-match while Kane stared at him.

WINNERS: Team Christian at 2:30. Why the torment? A slow, plodding, brutal match. (1/4*)

2 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. CODY RHODES

The bell sounded and there was a "Kofi, Kofi" chant that sounded close to a "Cody, Cody" chant. The announcers talked about the breakthrough performances by the young stars on TLC last night. Kofi hit a Boom Drop less than a minute into the ring, then Ted DiBiase stormed the ring and attacked Kofi for a DQ.

WINNER: Kofi via DQ at 1:01. (n/a)

Post-match: Evan Bourne made the save for Kofi. After things were settled down, Dennis Miller was back on-stage and he awarded himself a Slammy for Best Announcement by a Guest Host when he ordered the match restarted. "Al Sharpton, Jeremy Piven, Suck it! Ring the bell," he said. That got a crowd reaction. Miller's best moment (read: not super-awkward moment) of the show.

3 -- KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE vs. TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES

After the "Suck It" declaration, the bell sounded and Kofi and Bourne hit double planchas on Legacy on the outside. They cut to break and plugged Tribute to the Troops airing on NBC this Saturday night.

Back from break, DiBiase had Kofi in a headlock on the mat. Striker inserted a product placement plug, saying DiBiase was almost "Marine-like" taking apart Kofi. Cody and Ted continued to tag in and out working over Kingston as the audience tried to rally him. Bourne then took a tag at 6:30 and cleared the heels from the ring. Bourne then hit a double knee drop on Cody in mid-air for a two count. DiBiase and Kofi ended up on the outside, then Rhodes caught Bourne and turned his neck inside-out with an emphatic Cross Rhodes spinning neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kofi checked on Bourne while Legacy left the ring with a victory.

WINNERS: Legacy at 7:20. It was quite obvious how this going down once Bourne entered the match to be the man to take the fall. Meanwhile, Kofi is back to floating around aimlessly in the mid-card. (3/4*)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- Superstar of the Year tournament match

Cena ran over Punk with a shoulderblock, but Punk answered with a leg whip. He then mocked Cena's You Can't See Me and followed with a high knee in the corner followed by a running bulldog. Punk then settled into a mat hold as the audience chanted for Cena. Punk then tried the G2S, but Cena countered center-ring with the STF. The audience popped, then Cena re-applied the STF and locked it in center ring. Punk had nowhere to go and he tapped out. Cena briefly celebrated before selling frustration with his current circumstances.

WINNER: Cena at 1:43. Short match to get Cena his heat back and set up the post-match. Punk had a promo to help cover for the inevitable short loss, but this wasn't a good showcase for Punk. (n/a)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. THE UNDERTAKER -- Superstar of the Year tournament match

The bell sounded and the announcers picked up the debate on Batista not winning the World Title thanks to Teddy Long. Cole and Lawler defended Long's decision-making. Have to go with Shane McKinley's point on the inconsistency with Long's character since Long didn't call for a restart in Morrison-McIntyre after McIntyre won the IC Tile thanks to an illegal eye-gouge. As for the match, Taker teased his signature moves early on, but Orton countered everything. Taker then delivered a "vintage" leg drop across the ring apron from the outside. Striker asked Cole if he does "vintage" twice in one match. Cole said he tries not to. Legacy then walked down the ramp and Taker scared them back up the ramp. After scaring away Legacy, Taker walked back to Orton, who surprised Taker with an RKO on the floor as the ref was at a six count. Orton slid into the ring at nine and Taker made a last-second dive back in the ring, but he fell on the ground. Taker was counted out, giving Orton the win.

Post-match: Legacy tried to jump Taker, but Taker sat up and flung them to the outside. Taker then delivered a chokeslam on Orton and ref Robinson scurried out of the ring. After clearing the ring, Taker simply paced around the ring before his music played. So, now we have Cena vs. Orton once again.

WINNER: Orton via count-out at 3:20. It became obvious how this was going down once Cena won earlier. No way they were going to give away Cena vs. Taker on free TV with no hype. Of course, they had to protect Taker, so they went the cheap route to give Orton his ticket to the tournament finals. Not enough time to develop anything in the match itself. (*)

6 -- Unified tag champions DX (TRIPLE H & SHAWN MICHAELS) vs. BIG SHOW & CHRIS JERICHO -- Unified tag title match

The bell sounded and after a brief stare-down period, Hunter shoved down the ref. The ref stood up and surveyed the scene before shouting for a DQ. The audience figured out what was going on as Jericho stood stunned. Michaels sarcastically told Hunter he just cost them the match. Fortunately, the titles don't change hands on a DQ, but he did cost them the match. Hunter sarcastically said he just cost them the match and the winner's prize money. Michaels said there goes Christmas. Hunter said that also was the re-match and Jericho is done with re-matches. Michaels: "Oh man, this has to be horrible to be you." He then told Jericho technically he's not even supposed to be in a Raw ring. Michaels told Hunter that Jericho is trespassing. Hunter said if only there were a group of superstars who hate Jericho as much as they do.

Cue up the DX music to bring out Hurricane, R-Truth, Shelton, Cryme Tyme, Finlay, and Christian in DX Army gear. Best look was Christian sporting a Cowboy hat and DX beanie and pulling it off with style. There was even a DX Snuggie, thanks to Cole referencing it. Jericho yelled at the DX Army, but Michaels blasted him with a superkick to shut up Jericho. The makeshift DX Army then helped escort Jericho up the rampway. Of note, Big Show disappeared after the DQ. Jericho finally left and Michaels and Hunter were left in the ring to declare Jericho is outta here. They cut backstage where Jericho turned over a catering table while the DX Army pushed him down the walkway to the exit door. They pushed him out the door and closed the back door. Jericho pounded on the door, but Christian crotch-chopped the door.

WINNERS: Jericho & Show via DQ at 0:22; DX retains tag titles. Well, there goes Jericho back to Smackdown only it appears. Unless Jericho shows up as the Winnipeg Kid next week and wins a contract over a recently re-hired Wellness Policy violator. Or, he just badgers each week's guest host to get another chance on Raw. Meanwhile, Big Show can disappear for knee recovery ... or feud with Mark Henry.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 17 2009, 11:09 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-14-09

Continued from previous post...

7 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ & IC champion DREW MCINTYRE & ZACK RYDER vs. MARK HENRY & JOHN MORRISON & YOSHI TATSU

The heels tried to chase Henry around the ring, but Henry clobbered Miz and brought in Morrison. Miz and Morrison did battle to re-live the good ol' days before McIntyre tagged in and Morrison tackled him hard to the mat. Ryder then tagged in and he demanded a piece of Yoshi, who tagged in. Yoshi and Ryder had a nice exchange leading to a stand-off. Ryder then did "Woo Woo Woo" and Yoshi blasted him with a kick to the face. Yoshi made the cover for the win. That was pretty funny. Striker then nearly lost control of his bowels on commentary watching Yoshi jump up and down celebrating the win post-match. He's so happy it's almost painful.

WINNERS: Team Yoshi at 2:11. At this rate, Cena vs. Orton is going to last 34 seconds. This show has been laugh-out funny for good and bad reasons, absolutely horrible at other times, and a complete trainwreck at other times. Just a weird show. (3/4*)

8 -- MICKIE JAMES & KELLY KELLY & GAIL KIM & MARIA & Divas champion MELINA & BELLA TWINS vs. ROSA MENDES & Women's champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & NATALYA & ALICIA FOX & BETH PHOENIX & LAYLA & MARYSE

Fourteen divas assembled in the ring dressed in evening gowns. They couldn't decide who should be Diva of the Year, nor who should start the match. Eventually, Mickie entered the ring and scored a quick pin for the win as her consolation prize after not winning the Women's Title last night.

WINNERS: Team Mickie at 0:48. You knew this one was going short after the pattern on the show and the women dressed in evening gowns. (n/a)

9 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JOHN CENA

The match moved to the floor early on where Orton took advantage before throwing Cena back into the ring to inflict more punishment. Orton proceeded to stomp and kick and punch away on Cena, who sold pain before making a comeback with a bulldog. Cena then went up top and hit the guillotine leg drop for a close two count. Cena tried to collect himself before going after Orton, but Orton caught him with a fallaway backbreaker for a two count. Orton landed a straight right hand, then Cena came back with a small package pin attempt, but Orton popped up and landed a hard clothesline for a two count. Announcers cast doubt over Cena's chances tonight, which means he's winning. Orton continued the beat down before airballing on a high knee drop. Cena then made his full comeback as the crowd popped for his You Can't See Me routine. Cena then tried the Attitude Adjustment, but Orton blocked, and tried the RKO, but Cena countered into an STF attempt. Orton blocked, but Cena countered into an AA for a close two count when Orton grabbed the bottom rope just before three. Orton rolled to the outside to recover, then he caught Cena and implant DDT'ed right off the ring apron face-first into the padding. Orton then rolled Cena's lifeless body back into the ring, but Cena kicked out at two. Orton, now beside himself, did his evil-eyes look as Cena stirred in the corner. Orton saw his chance and backed into the corner for The Punt, but Cena moved and hit the AA this time in center ring. SuperCena then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 9:03 to become Superstar of the Year. Darn good main event. Great counters and reversals, but you could see the finish coming a mile away with a "reinvigorated and renewed" Cena being the focal point of the match. (***)

Post-match: Cena celebrated his victory and award-winning night, then Sheamus came out on-stage with the WWE Title belt held high in the air. Cena told Sheamus to come get some, but Sheamus remained on the stage gloating about his possession of the title belt. They closed ten minutes past the top of the year with Sheamus smiling a big smile.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 17 2009, 11:11 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 12-15-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37417.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE HURRICANE vs. THE RIPPER PAUL BURCHILL (w/The Beautiful Nightmare Katie Lea)

Instant thumbs up for the match with Josh Mathews referencing "The Office." Context was Hurricane is Jim trying to eliminate Ripper, who would be Dwight Schrute. The match was controlled by Ripper early on as Katie continued to hold her mask and shout encouragement from ringside. Burchill tried to charge Hurricane in the corner moments later, but Hurricane responded with a Hurricean Uppercut for a two count. He wanted to follow with the Shining Wizard, but Burchill ducked and hit a neckbreaker for a close two count. Hurricane then came back with a Tornado DDT from the corner. He then tried to unmask Burchill and eh removed the Ripper mask. Burchill, angered and flustered, walked into the Shining Wizard from Hurricane, who made the cover for the win. Post-match: Hurricane held up Burchill's mask triumphantly as Burchill tried to make sense of his bad luck.

WINNER: Hurricane in 5:00. Fine singles match. Not enough time to be on par with their previous matches. Now, Burchill goes back to being in limbo for the time being. (*)

2 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. KOZLOV (w/William Regal) -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

The bell sounded and they went face-to-face center ring. Jackson pie-faced Kozlov, who answered with a forearm to the blow. Jackson then landed a scoop slam. Meanwhile, Mathews delivered the news: there will be 16 men in the #1 contender tournament and the eight winners will compete in an ECW Homecoming finale in five weeks. They quickly went to the finish where Regal subtly tripped Kozlov from the outside. Jackson then hit his Uranage on Kozlov for the pin and the win. Post-match: Regal smiled and patted Jackson on the back. He smiled, then Jackson started to walk off. Regal went back to get his coat and Kozlov confronted him on the outside. Jackson then blasted Kozlov from behind and Regal ran him into the announce table to KO Kozlov. They aired a replay of the post-match, which Regal and Jackson celebrated on the way out.

WINNER: Jackson in 2:00. Yes, they are apparently trying to turn Kozlov babyface. Or, just switching Jackson back to a heel since he wasn't over as a babyface. You figure it out. (n/a)

3 -- TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT vs. JULIO CRUZ & JORGE ARIAS

Mathews sarcastically congratulated B&C on their victory over the Unified tag champs playing video games. B&C methodically worked over their opponents as the crowd seemed completely disinterested in the action. B&C then finished the match with a double-team Hangman's neckbreaker for the pin and the win. Post-match: Barreta stole the mic from Savannah and did the announcement: "Your winners, next year's Slammy-Award winning tag team of the year, Trent Barreta and Caylen Croft."

WINNERS: Barreta & Croft in 2:00. Squash match to continue getting them on TV. Their gimmick is for the kids, which may or may not catch on. Stay tuned. When WWE puts them in an actual tag match after establishing them in squash matches, a proper evaluation can be made. (n/a)

4 -- KANE vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes) -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

Ryder tried to be aggressive early on, but Kane blasted him with right hand uppercuts. Ryder blocked Kane in the corner with a boot, but Kane caught him in mid-air for a powerslam off the second rope. Kane missed with an elbow drop, though, and Ryder went to work on Kane with matholds. Ryder then avoided a chokeslam before punting Kane in the back of the leg to begin taking apart the left knee and hamstring. Rosa shouted encouragement from ringside as Ryder tried to force a submission. Ryder surprisingly in control as the announcers sold speculation that perhaps Kane under-estimated Ryder going into the match. Kane made a comeback at 4:00, but Ryder went back to the left knee. Ryder then hit a Rocker Dropper for a two count. He tried to follow with the Rough Rider, but Kane slipped out and grabbed Ryder around the throat to deliver a chokeslam for the pin and the win. Post-match: Kane shot the pyro in the ring as the announcers talked up Kane qualifying for the Homecoming in January.

WINNER: Kane in 5:00. Decent little TV match with Ryder having a good amount of offense. Of course, Ryder in control throughout the match telegraphed the finish of Kane eventually winning. Based on how this is going, the ECW Homecoming is going to feature every big man on the roster. I suppose we can look forward to Mark Henry and Big Show joining and perhaps cameos from Viscera and Boogeyman. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 18 2009, 05:01 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 12-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37474.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Knockouts champion ODB vs. ROXXI -- non-title match

ODB controlled the match from the start. She then delivered a Bronco Buster in the corner and the announcers offered a sophomoric attempt at a double entendre. ODB tried to follow with a charging splash in the opposite corner, but Roxxi moved and rammed ODB head-first into the corner turnbuckle pad. Roxxi followed with multiple right arm forearm blows before hitting the Voo Doo Drop for a nearfall. ODB then pounded her face to "wake up" and she rolled up Roxxi for a two count. Roxxi then jack-knife pinned ODB, but she only scored a two count. ODB then went looking for her flask to get some liquid courage, but the ref reprimanded ODB and Roxxi rolled up ODB for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Roxxi in 5:00. Solid Knockouts match. Roxxi looked sharp and moved well in the ring. The build-up for the title match at the PPV was well-done as well. (*1/2)

2 -- MATT MORGAN (w/Hernandez, The Pope, and Suicide) vs. BROTHER RAY (w/Brother Devon, Jesse Neal, and Rhino)

After a few moments of action, the lumberjacks on the outside teased a fight, but the focus returned to the action where Morgan landed his signature rapid-fire elbow smashes in the corner. Ray then came back with an elbow smash and he dumped Morgan to the floor for Team Ray to land some shots before there was a stand-off. Back in the ring, Ray dropped Morgan with a neckbreaker for a two count. Morgan then made a comeback and landed a scoop slam for a two count. Ray tried to roll to the floor for a time-out, but Morgan's help blasted him with right hands. Back in the ring, Ray was fully recovered to do his Dusty Rhodes routine before Morgan hit a chokeslam. Ref Hebner was then distracted and the action broke down in and out of the ring. Hebner was then distracted by Devon allowing Neal to low-blow Morgan. Ray then hit a DDT on Ray and pinned him for the win. The announcers reminded viewers that Hernandez is alone for the first five minutes on Sunday.

WINNER: Brother Ray in 5:00. The match had the expected outside interference and referee incompetence to complete the standard TNA TV match. The hype was fine, though, for the eight-man tag match at the PPV to see Team Ray get its comeuppance... that is, if anyone is interested in the eclectic babyface mix where TNA has somehow managed to make the sum of the parts less than the parts.

3 -- BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (VELVET SKY & LACEY VON ERICH & MADISON RAYNE) vs. HAMADA & AWESOME KONG vs. Knockouts tag champions SARITA & SARITA -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Tenay said there is no Impact next week on Christmas Eve. New Year's Eve will have a one-night Knockout tournament and the Best PPV matches of 2009. The action spilled out everywhere in and out of the ring at a fast pace since they were only going a few minutes. After Hamada got in some highspots, they went to the finish where Kong sat on Rayne's chest to score a pin for the win. Post-match: Lauren brought in the Beautiful People on the entrance ramp and Lacey yelled at Lauren to find a backseat to crawl into. We're back to the name-calling of Lauren? Lauren slapped Velvet, then stormed off to the back, leaving the BPs to fume on the ramp.

WINNERS: Kong & Hamada in 2:00. Quick, short match to get in as many spots as possible. Not much here. (n/a)

4 -- JAY LETHAL vs. TATANKA

The bell sounded and they locked up with Lethal doing his Randy Savage-style right hand jabs. Tatanka then hit a clothesline as the announcers tried to talk up the veterans have an "experience edge" over Lethal to cover for the ridiculousness of the gimmick. Tatanka delivered a hard chop in the corner, followed by another. Lethal then came off the top with a double axehandle smash for a two count. Tatanka suddenly Hulked Up and started doing a war dance around the ring before landing a series of chops. Tatanka followed with a back body drop and he landed another series of chops. He followed with a Tomahawk chop before going up top for a flying T-Hawk chop for a close two count. Tatanka wanted to finish him off with a Samoan Drop, but Lethal blocked and went up top. Tatanka blocked, though, and landed a Samoan Drop for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Tatanka in 4:00. Tatanka looked sharp compared to when we last saw him on Smackdown a few years ago. Lethal losing these matches doesn't do much for him, though. As a standalone match, this was good for four minutes. (*)

5 -- DANIELS vs. DESMOND WOLFE

Wolfe worked over Daniels's neck with a cravate hold early on to control Daniels. Wolfe continued to go back to the hold, then Daniels went to a side headlock to control Wolfe's movements. Nice little technical exchange that will cause people to tune out because TNA has trained the audience to skip the wrestling and wait for the comedy and storylines because TNA's TV focus isn't on wrestling. Daniels eventually broke the headlock and shoved Wolfe to the mat. Wolfe stared a hole into the ringside camera and locked up with Daniels again. Right on cue, the announcers hyped Jeff Jarrett meeting with Kurt Angle up next. My point exactly. Wolfe then hit a European uppercut at 5:00, but Daniels popped up to his feet and knocked down Wolfe with a forearm. Wolfe then went nose-to-nose and slapped Daniels. Daniels responded in-kind. This was followed by a forearm exchange leading to a leg whip from Daniels. Daniels followed with an STO takedown for a two count, then a split-legged moonsault for another two count. Wolfe then followed with his running European uppercut after toe-tapping the opposite corner and charging Daniels. He scored a two count, then went to work on Daniels, who came back with a step-up enziguiri after being shot off to the ropes. Wolfe then blocked Angel's Wings and trapped Daniels in a submission hold focusing on the left shoulder and neck area. Wolfe cranked back on the crossface, but Daniels bit his way out. Daniels followed with a face-jam into the Koji Clutch, but Wolfe broke free. Wolfe wanted to follow with the Tower of London, but Daniels countered into a pin attempt for a two count. Wolfe and Daniels then entered in a nice pin exchange before testing their strength with backslide counters. They started rolling around the ring with multiple pin attempts before the bell sounded. The announcement was a ten-minute time limit expiration. The announcers didn't draw attention to there being a time limit at any point in the match, rendering this an out-of-nowhere finish. The crowd chanted, "Let them fight," as TNA went to a commercial with Daniels and Wolfe having a mid-ring stand-off.

WINNER: Draw at 10:00. Great technical exhibition in the ring from two excellent wrestlers. I wouldn't be surprised if the quarter-hour rating drops, though, based on zero pre-match hype and TNA's history of training their audience to pay attention to the storyline-driven segments and ignoring the wrestling. Just look at how much emphasis has been on Jarrett in a non-wrestling role and how little focus has been on wrestling during this show. (***1/2)

6 -- TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. STYLES & BOBBY LASHLEY & ABYSS & KURT ANGLE & TOMKO vs. SCOTT STEINER & RAVEN & DR. STEVIE & TNA tag champs BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS w/Rob Terry)

Abyss, Raven, Stevie, Lashley, and Steiner were removed from the situation before the commercial break. The bell sounded with four minutes left to go in the show with Kurt Angle facing Magnus. Tomko then tagged in and Brutus raked his eyes. Tomko then smashed Williams with a big boot and he delivered a powerslam. Angle tagged back in and Styles complained about not getting a chance to play. Williams took down Angle with a European Uppercut, then BI hit their weak double-team finisher for a one count on Angle. The announcers briefly talked up Styles having Daniels on Sunday, Bobby Lashley still with a title shot in his back-pocket, and Angle gunning for the title. They suddenly cut backstage where Lashley and Steiner were brawling in the parking lot. Meanwhile, Stevie and Raven were slamming Abyss with trashcan lids. And back to Lashley and Steiner. Oh yeah, and there's a match in the ring. Whoops, rest hold. Cut back to the brawls in the back. There's Angle making a comeback as Taz apologized for giving the audience a headache. Meanwhile, Terry yanked down Tomko and Styles tagged in for his first real focus 119 minutes into the show. Styles teased the Clash on Magnus, but Williams cut him off. Tomko then broke up a BI double-team move and Styles rolled up Magnus for the win.

WINNERS: Team Styles in 4:00. Just a match to get some folks on TV and try to hype as many PPV matches as possible from three different locations while dizzying the audience. Too much in too little amount of time. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 18 2009, 05:02 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 12-17-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37473.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG) vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & MIKE KNOX

The bell sounded and we have a screamer in the crowd. We heard from her early and often in this match. Dolph and Knox worked over JTG early on, but Shad tagged in and bodyslammed Dolph. Meanwhile, Knox blind-tagged into the match and smashed Shad wit a big cross-body block. Both men sold the effects of the mid-air ab collison and they cut to break.

Back from break, Dolph was working over Shad and he scored a nearfall before bringing in the good doctor to work over Shad. Shad made a fiery comeback at 8:00, but Knox cut him off with a dropkick that looked pretty impressive coming from the big man. Ziggler then tagged in and took his time setting up a big elbow drop that he let everyone in the arena know was coming. Dolph tried to settle into a chinlock, but Shad pulled a John Cena and powered up to his feet to drop Dolph on the mat. JTG and Knox then took tags - JTG's being hot - and JTG dropkicked Knox to the corner. JTG started rolling the dice before giving Knox a faceplant, but Ziggler broke up the pin attempt. Shad then came in and dropped Ziggler with an STO before Knox clotheslined Shad to the floor. Knox tried to follow with a big boot on JTG, but JTG ducked and hit the Shout-Out necktie drop. Didn't look like enough offense to pin the much-larger Knox, but it was the finish and JTG scored the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme in 12:00. That was a good, well-executed, stand-out TV tag match. Knox was impressive on offense, Ziggler got his personality across to the audience, and Cryme Tyme did their thing to excite the audience leading to the finish. All of the elements came together nicely. It would have been nice to see Ziggler pick up a win, but at least he didn't take the fall. (**)

2 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. VANCE ARCHER

The bell sounded and Archer flung Dreamer across the ring before stomping away on his head. Archer continued to pound away on Dreamer as he insulted Dreamer with trash-talk in the process. Time for a Tommy Dreamer comeback and we got one at 3:00 including a corner mount and three punches to the head before landing a bulldog. Dreamer followed with a Dreamer DDT, but Archer used his long leg to put his foot on the bottom rope for a break. Dreamer tried to follow with a frogsplash, but Arch moved and exploded out of the corner with a clothesline. Arch followed with a big boot as the audience chanted Tommy's name. It was for naught, though, as Archer hit his swinging reverse DDT with an intense grunt for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Vance Archer in 5:00. Fine match. WWE is just trying to build up Archer and Dreamer is an easy sympathy magnet to transfer the heat onto Archer. (*)

3 -- MVP vs. JACK SWAGGER

The bell sounded and the announcers were back on the same talking points from last week - and every other match-up between these two - on MVP doing hard time and Swagger being born into greatness. I hear "hard time" and I think Dusty Rhodes promo. How did WWE not at least nominate him for Best Guest Host? Anyways, MVP and Swagger walked through a good feeling-out process to start, then MVP blasted Swagger with a clothesline and worked over Swagger in the corner. Swagger then came back with a boot to the chin to begin working over MVP on the mat. Swagger tried to toss MVP over the top rope, but MVP skinned the cat back into the ring. Swags saw it coming and smashed MVP to the floor to take control going to break.

Back from break, Swagger had MVP on the mat with an amateur hold as the audience tried to rally behind MVP. Swagger continued to work over MVP's back, then he turned his attention to MVP's mid-section with hard knees and body shots. MVP fired back with right hands, but Swagger answered with a textbook armdrag into another mat-based hold. Swagger teased the gutwrench powerbomb at 12:00, but MVP slipped out and smashed Swagger in the corner with a big Chono Boot. MVP then followed with the Playmaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: MVP in 13:00. Finish was obvious since the match was the complete opposite of last week. MVP dominated last week and Swagger scored the win. Swagger dominated this week and MVP scored the win. Now they're even from the past two weeks and a rubber match should be coming on Raw (hahahaha) or on a future Superstars. This was an equally-good match compared to last week. Well done to close the show. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 20 2009, 06:28 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-18-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37504.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH & MATT HARDY vs. DREW MCINTRYE & C.M. PUNK & LUKE GALLOWS

One minute into the match, they cut to a break. Gallos got sustained offense on Morrison, then tagged in McIntyre. At 11:00 Morrison hot-tagged Hardy. Striker he was fighting "for everyone who's ever been told what to do." Groan. Hardy hit a Side Effect for a two count. Gallos broke up the pin. Truth ran in, then so did McIntrye. Punk yanked Morrison off the top roep, then blocked a Hardy Twist of Fate attempt. Punk then hit Hardy in his "surgically repaired abdomen" with his Slammy Award trophy for the three count. Striker said thanks to Punk cleaning up his life, he had the clarity to take advantage of the situation in help Punk score the pin.

WINNERS: Punk & Gallos & McIntrye in 12:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Basic stuff. Fine.

2 -- KANE vs. ERIC ESCOBAR

WINNER: Kane in 2:00 with a chokeslam.

3 -- THE GREAT KHALI (w/Ranjin Sing) vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Jericho bailed out to ringside when Khali entered the ring. Khali chopped Jericho in the head as soon as he entered the ring. He stomped on him in the corner. Jericho bailed out to ringside again. He climbed back in and leaped at Khali off the top rope, but Khali caught him and then chopped him again. Khali went for the vice grip, so Jericho rolled to the floor to avoid it and just walked to the back, getting intentionally counted out.

WINNER: Khali in 3:00 via countout.

4 -- THE HART DYNASTY (w/Natalya) vs. SLAM MASTER J & JIMMY WANG YANG

Striker said Master J is trying to pull Yang over to the "hip hop side of the ATL." Grisham said Yang wants to be called the "Asian Redneck Gangster" now. Yang and Master J dove to ringside onto the Dynasty. Wang then went to work on Kidd inside the ring. Some nicely paced action culminated with a Hart Attack clothesline on Master J for the win.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty in 3:00.

5 -- MARIA vs. BETH PHOENIX

Maria dove at Phoenix at 1:00 off the ropes. Maria surprised Phoenix with a roll-up for a near fall. Maria kicked Phoenix in the face, but Phoenix shoved her to the mat on a head scissors attempt, then gave her the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Phoenix in 2:00.

6 - BATISTA vs. REY MYSTERIO

Not casting judgment on either, because both are on opposite extremes, but Smackdown usually reserves nearly the final half hour for nothing but some routine filler (Raw Rebound, movie trailer) and the main event, including drawn out ring intros, while Impact shoved the main event into the final six or eight minutes of the show, while putting three weeks worth of Smackdown angles into the rest of the final half hour leading up to the main event. It's such opposite booking philosophies and pacing. Batista fended off early Rey offense. Rey snapped Batista's neck over the top rope and then dropkicked him to the floor at 1:00. Rey then springboard dove onto Batista at ringside with a seated senton. Batista caught Rey on the next dive and rammed him into the security wall. They cut to a break at 3:00.

Batista continued to beat on Rey after the break. After sustained methodical offense by Batista, at 10:00 Rey caught Batista with a dropkick. It slowed Batista, but it took a few more moves to drop Batista. A bulldog led to Rey's first cover and a two count. Grisham said there was a big match feel in the arena.. Rey hit a springboard legdrop for another two count at 12:00. Rey caught Batista with a 619 at 13:00, but when he went for a springboard dive, Batista lifted his knees and scored a two count on Rey. Batista wasn't happy when, after a one-armed Bossman slam, Rey grabbed the bottom rope to stop the count. "You're kidding me!" he angrily yelled. Rey avoided a Batista Bomb and then head scissored Batista to ringside. Batista threw a fit and grabbed a chair at ringside. The ref warned him. He slammed the chair to the mat, then speared Rey back in the ring for a believable near fall. The kickout popped the crowd. Batista picked up Rey, but Rey countered his weight and landed on top and small packaged Batista for a surprise three count. Grisham called it a shocker.

WINNER: Rey in 16:00 to earn a World Title shot against Undertaker next week.

STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Nice match, especially the first few minutes and late few minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 20 2009, 01:29 pm
WWE Tribute to the Troops: 12-19-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37525.shtml). All highlights reposted here.

1 -- REY MYSTERIO & MARK HENRY vs. C.M. PUNK & CARLITO

Rey and Henry took turns dominating the match, with Henry getting in most of the offense. Rey then took a hot tag when Punk and Carlito tried to isolate Henry for a bit. It didn't work out, though, and Rey did his comeback routine before hitting the West Coast Pop on Carlito for the pin and the win. Rey jumped in Henry's arms after the victory to celebrate.

WINNERS: Mysterio & Henry in 5:00. Fine warm-up match to set the tone for the babyfaces conquering evil to inspire the troops and the viewers watching on NBC. (*)

Video package: They aired a photo album-style video with snapshots of the wrestlers interacting with the troops in a variety of different settings.

In-ring: Eve was in the ring and she introduced Santa Clause for a special presentation. Out came R-Truth rapping in a giant Santa suit. Truth proceeded to cut a promo about Santa putting on a few pounds because of the cookies and sweets. He then asked for something sweet and out came Layla, Alicia, Kelly Kelly, and the Bella Twins dressed in Santa's Helper outfits. They tossed out presents and handed out kisses to the troops.

Obama video: 20 minutes into the show, President Obama's brief message aired that WWE posted on their site this weekend. No mention of WWE. Just a basic message aimed at the troops.

Video package: They aired a lengthy video on the wrestlers interacting with the troops during their stay in Iraq earlier this month to film the show. Good video rightfully focusing on the troops that took up about three or four minutes.

Video package: They aired a few shots of the Army in action. This led to a message from General Petreaus, who aimed the message specifically at WWE for showcasing the troops on the trip. This was a longer message than Obama's and WWE included various action shots of the soldiers in action. Some troops were given air time to send messages back home.

In-ring: U.S. champion The Miz came to the ring for a singles match against former tag partner, John Morrison. Morrison was shown with the IC Title, which he lost to Drew McIntyre at the TLC PPV. Cole added on commentary that it was taped as a champion vs. champion match, but "many of the viewers know" that Drew McIntyre is the new champ.

2 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

Miz knocked down Morrison early on, then Morrison came back with a dropkick into a standing Shooting Star Press for a two count. Morrison went up top, but Miz shoved Morrison off the top rope to the outside. Miz in control back in the ring and he let the troops know about it. Morrison tried to make a comeback, but Miz rolled him up near the ropes and put his feet on the ropes to secure a pin for the win with additional leverage. Cole let the mainstream audience know that's not allowed in WWE.

WINNER: The Miz in 4:00. Basic singles match with the heel getting the upper-hand this time around. Fine. (*)

Video package: They rolled footage of John Cena's promo addressing the troops. Various shots of Cena through the years wrestling on behalf of the military. Good video showcasing Cena's dedication to the cause for six years. Up next: WWE Title on the line (not really) with Cena vs. Chris Jericho.

In-ring: Chris Jericho came to the ring for the main event title match. No promo. John Cena then came out with possession of the WWE Title belt. Cole said in the voice-over commentary that Cena lost the title to the "up-and-coming" Sheamus at TLC on Sunday. Eve handled the formal ring intros for Jericho (boos) and Cena (all cheers in front of a favorable audience).

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- WWE Title match without the title

The bell sounded and Cena wanted a clean lock-up to start, but Jericho kicked him in the knees to begin working over Cena. They rolled credits at the bottom of the screen for Dave Finlay as talent producer and John Laurinaitis as VP of Talent. Michael Cole was credited for WWE.com. The wrestlers weren't credited since they're not protected by any form of a union despite being actors in a scripted entertainment TV series. But that's a discussion for another time. Jericho was in control going to break.

Jericho was in control out of the break. Cena then made his standard comeback and blocked a Jericho comeback to hit the Attitude Adjustment center ring. Cena made the cover for the win with good overcoming evil two out of three times on the show.

WINNER: Cena in 8:00. Fine, standard singles match. Just some basic wrestling on the show tonight while rightfully focusing on the troops. (*)

Video package: They closed the show with another video package focusing on the troops with some clips sprinkled in of the wrestlers interacting with the troops. The video ended with shots of the troops saluting the U.S. flag and a rapid-fire look at how the "arena" was set up on the base for the show. The closing shots were of Rey Mysterio body-surfing the troops, John Cena standing amongst the troops, and a shot of the U.S. flag.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 21 2009, 02:19 pm
TNA Final Resolution PPV Results: 12-20-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_37540.shtml)

1 -- TNA tag champions BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS) vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) -- TNA tag title match
WINNERS: British Invasion at 11:50. Very good opening tag match. The highspots were in the context of the wrestlers trying to find any way to win a title match and the close nearfalls weren't over-done, but sold the Brits as being a tough tag team to defeat. (***1/2)

2 -- Knockouts champion ODB vs. TARA -- Knockouts Title match
WINNER: Tara at 5:40 to capture the Knockouts Title. Good, but brief title match. We'll see how Tara fares as champ. Another match with Awesome Kong seems inevitable. (*1/2)

3 -- FEAST OR FIRED match
WINNERS: Nash #1, Bashir #2, Samoa Joe #3, Rob Terry #4. Match time: 9:18. A bunch of spots, but some good "thrills" with the teases of who would grab the cases. Just fine. (*1/2)

4 -- TEAM 3D (BROTHER RAY & BROTHER DEVON) & JESSE NEAL & RHINO vs. HERNANDEZ & MATT MORGAN & SUICIDE & POPE D'ANGELO DINERO -- Elimination match
WINNER: Matt Morgan at 16:35. Fine match. This was above my personal expectations with a nicely laid-out multiple-man match. Morgan being re-established as a top star in TNA was a good move after TNA pushed him down the card. As for the three separate instances of chair shots to the head, I just don't get it. It's just sad, uneducated defiance. Not surprising from TNA and in a match featuring Team 3D. (**1/2)

5 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. BOBBY LASHLEY -- Last Man Standing match
WINNER: Lashley at 9:12. Another above-expectations match. They used the stipulation well, Steiner looked good in the ring despite an apparent leg injury, and Lashley actually looked half-way decent in the ring. Read: not as awkward. (**1/2)

6 -- RAVEN & DR. STEVIE vs. ABYSS & MICK FOLEY -- Foley's Funhouse Rules match
WINNERS: Abyss & Foley at 9:27. Not my flavor of match. At some point, you wonder why one of them doesn't just try to kill the other one instead of just inflicting mild injury. Every month, it seems like this feud will conclude, but every month, TNA books a new storyline for Richards to continue this feud with Abyss. (n/a)

7 -- KURT ANGLE vs. DESMOND WOLFE -- Three Degrees of Pain match
WINNER: Angle at 26:17, winning the second and third falls. Another excellent wrestling showcase, especially the second fall with the submission hold exchanges. Of course, it's always tough to watch Angle in the ring because his body is pretty much in shambles, but TNA continues to roll him out there and he continues to deliver very good wrestling matches. Wolfe didn't lose too much since he only "lost" because he couldn't get out of a cage faster than Angle. Since it appears Angle will be moving into the TNA title picture, let's hope Wolfe isn't lost in the shuffle in the follow-up. (****1/4)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS -- TNA World Title match
WINNER: Styles at 21:05. An excellent showcase singles match featuring two of TNA's top wrestlers. Daniels stepped up his game on the big stage and Styles continues to deliver in big-time matches. Styles is simply one of the best showmen in the ring with the combination of charisma, high-impact moves, lightning-fast counters, and good in-ring psychology. The match told a good, complete story focusing on the "personal feud" aspect of the match's storyline. TNA presented a very good one-two punch to end the show, just like last month. No run-ins, no over-booking, no silliness to distract from four of their best workers doing their thing in the ring. A very satisfying conclusion to a very satisfying PPV. (****1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 23 2009, 12:08 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37568.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GAIL KIM & KELLY KELLY & MELINA vs. MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL & ALICIA FOX

The divas were dressed in not-PG TV Santa's Little Helpers outfits. The action broke down after two minutes of basic stuff, then Gail Kim drop-kicked Kelly on top of Maryse for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Kelly at 2:15. Just some moves. Cole laughed and giggled. Lawler made his remarks. Just what you would expect for a "warped Christmas special" edition of Raw. (n/a)

2 -- RANDY ORTON & CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE vs. EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY & KOFI KINGSTON

Legacy took control early on and they quickly went to a commercial break.

Back from break, Bourne took a hot tag and cleaned house on Legacy. Bourne then hit a top rope Shooting Star Press on Rhodes and he had a pin, but DiBiase broke up the pin. The action broke down and Legacy took advantage in the confusion. Legacy began tagging in and out working over Bourne, but Kofi took a hot tag and cleaned house on Orton. Kofi flew off the second rope with a dropkick to the knees before connecting with the Boom Drop center ring. Kofi made a cover, but Rhodes broke it up. Henry then smashed Rhodes out of the ring. In the meanwhile, DiBiase tagged in and ate the Trouble in Paradise. Kofi then made the cover for the win as the announcers put over Kofi. Meanwhile, Orton sold disbelief on the outside.

WINNERS: Team Kofi at 10:23. Pretty good two-segment match. They went back to focusing on Kofi to set up another round of Orton vs. Kofi down the road. Evan Bourne also had a moment to shine coming out of the commercial. Fine match to re-establish Kofi. (*3/4)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. JOHN CENA

Swagger started in control with amateur holds, then Cena took control going to an early break.

Back from break, Swagger was in control after taking a shortcut to gain control during the break. Cena tried to fight back, but Swagger cut him off repeatedly. Swagger then locked in a double underhook submission hold bending Cena's shoulders back. Cena tried to power to his feet in a squat-position at they hit the top of the hour.

Cena broke the Masterlock to make his comeback with a belly-to-belly suplex at the top of the hour. Good picture of a heated wrestling match for viewers flipping channels at the end of 9:00 p.m. EST programming. Swagger then cut off Cena again and delivered a running Vader Bomb out of the corner for a close two count. If anything, Swagger has at least been positioned as equal to Cena tonight. Swagger, upset, waited for Cena to get up, then he wanted his gutwrench powerbomb, but Cena blocked and back dropped Swagger. Cena then made his full-fledged comeback and set up the "You Can't See Me" routine.

Cena tried the Attitude Adjustment, but Swagger countered into a running powerslam after running Cena into the top turnbuckle. Nice sequence. The crowd sensed they needed to rally Cena with a chant, then Swagger took Cena up top. Cena blocked a superplex and knocked Swagger off the top rope before airballing a guillotine leg drop. Swagger then tried his running Vader Bomb again, but Cena moved and locked in the STF center ring. Swagger stayed motionless in the hold, then tapped out after seven seconds.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 12:30. Solid TV match. One of those matches where it could have gone another five minutes and not worn out its welcome, as it felt like Cena and Swagger were building to another memorable Raw TV singles match after the April match-up. Swagger looked good with plenty of offense and counters to Cena's usual routine sequences. Nice to see WWE putting Swagger in a position to look good in this match-up. Now, the key is the follow-up. (**1/2)

4 -- CHRIS MASTERS (w/Eve) vs. CARLITO

The bell sounded and Masters teased the Masterlock, but Carlito grabbed the ropes to block. Masters teased the Masterlock again, but Carlito kicked him away. Masters tried again, but Carlito blocked. Masters then caught Carlito off the ropes and locked in the Masterlock on his fourth try. Crowd still not into it, then Carlito faded out to give Masters the win. Post-match: Masters tried to pump up the crowd after his win. Eve then walked into the ring and congratulated him. She then pulled out mistletoe from her boot and planted a kiss on Masters. He responded by flexing his pecs uncontrollably. Get it? Instead of an erection, Masters's pecs become uncontrollable.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 1:45. Just a bizarre deal. At least it's memorable. Masters is a one-move wonder as a babyface. WWE certainly hopes the Eve association will get fans into Masters's character, but it needs time. (n/a)

5 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. MVP -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Sheamus instantly attacked MVP to take control of the match. Sheamus measured MVP for a corner attack, but MVP moved and Sheamus ate the turnbuckle shoulder-first. MVP then kicked Sheamus across the shoulder and dropped him with a jawbreaker. MVP set up the Ballin' elbow drop, but Sheamus popped to his feet and delivered his big bicycle kick to the face. Sheamus then set up MVP and connected with the running Celtic Cross for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:25. They needed to make Sheamus look strong to keep establishing him as a credible act considering the quick rise to WWE Titleholder. Tough spot for MVP, who was here to enhance Sheamus and not get himself over. (*)

6 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. SANTINO CLAUSE MARELLA -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Miz attacked Santino Clause to beat him down. Lawler said this could scare children. This whole show could scare kids. Miz pounded Santino into the corner before hitting a neckbreaker. Miz then wanted a running clothesline, but Santino ducked before doing the splits to hit an armdrag. Santino then climbed to the second rope and missed with his sailor's salute diving splash. Miz followed up with the Skullcrushing Finale on Santino Clause for the win. Post-match: Miz grabbed Santino's sack and smashed the toys inside. He then punted the sack across the ring, stealing Orton's gimmick.

WINNER: The Miz at 2:13. Just a squash to get heat on Miz for beating up Clause and ruining the kids's Christmas week. Santino was at least half-way entertaining because he's Santino. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 23 2009, 12:50 pm
Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-21-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRosenroll's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37577.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - CHRIS HERO (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Rey) vs. KYLE O'REILLY
 
Dave Prazak mentioned that O'Reilly has wrestled on some recent ROH live events and that wrestling Hero was a great opportunity in his HDNet debut. O'Reilly used superior quickness to show well in the early going with a arm drag, a drop kick and some other strikes. Hero rolled outside for a breather at 1:00, but O'Reilly chased him outside. Hero ran around the ring and rolled back inside. As O'Reilly followed him back in, Hagadorn and Del Rey grabbed his ankles, forcing him to pause on the apron to shake them off. This gave Hero an opening to land a running kick, sending O'Reilly crashing back to the outside. Hero now took control of the match and worked over O'Reilly with his trademark strikes, while playing the overconfident heel. O'Reilly ducked a running forearm strike at 3:30 and came back at Hero was a series of strikes of his own. O'Reilly hit a swinging DDT for a near fall at 4:30. O'Reilly signaled that he was going to attempt a finisher by making the garrote gesture over his neck, but before he could land another move Hero came back with a rolling elbow out of nowhere, followed by the Death Blow spinning elbow and the pin.

WINNER: Hero in 5:00. Average match designed to make O'Reilly look like more than just another jobber. O'Reilly got a decent amount of offense, but didn't sell as much for Hero as he could have. I did not like that, when O'Reilly made his comeback after Hero's sustained beating, he popped up and went on the offense as though Hero had not done a thing to him.

2 - NECRO BUTCHER vs. JOEY RYAN (w/Prince Nana and Ernesto Osiris)

Dave Prazak said that Ernie Osiris was now known as Ernesto. Necro came to the ring carrying a traffic cone. The announcers discussed whether getting his with a traffic cone would do any damage. Referee Todd Sinclair made Necro put away the traffic cone. As Necro argued with the referee, Ryan tried for a sneak attack but Necro saw it coming and beat Ryan to the punch. This gave Necro the advantage of the bell sounded, and he beat Ryan all around the ring in the early going. At 0:30, Ryan caught Necro with a thumb to the eye to switch the advantage. Ryan worked over Necro heel style for a short while, until Necro caught Ryan's foot on a kick attempt, kicked Ryan in the gut and threw him to the outside at 1:30. Necro followed Ryan outside and got big pops from the crowd by repeatedly throwing Ryan over the guardrail into the front row. Necro threw Ryan back into the ring at 3:30 but, as Necro tried to climb in after him, Osiris hit Necro with a running double axehandle while the referee's back was turned looking at Ryan. Necro turned to go after Ryan, giving Ryan an opportunity to go back to Necro's eyes and regain the advantage. Ryan then got another sustained spell of heel offence, using tactics like choking Necro and distracting the referee so Prince Nana could get a cheap shot.

At 8:00, Ryan went to the top rope, but Necro had enough gas in the tank to grab the tope rope, causing Ryan to slip and crotch himself on the turnbuckle. Necro then brought Ryan down to the mat with a hurricanrana. Osiris jumped on the apron to create a distraction while Nana tossed Ryan a bag of white powder, which Ryan tossed in Necro's eyes. However, the referee turned away from Osiris in time to see Ryan throw the powder and immediately disqualified Ryan.

WINNER: Necro Butcher by disqualification in 8:30. Just an okay match, but the crowd seemed into Necro and the match served a purpose in building heat for the Embassy.

3 - COLT CABANA vs. CLAUDIO CASTAGNOLI (w/Prince Nana and Ernesto Osiris) - Pick 6 Contenders Series Match
 
Cabana caught Castagnoli unaware with a school boy at the opening bell to almost break the record for fastest pin of all time. Castagnoli recovered, and the two began a series of back-and-forth exchanges of chain wrestling and mat wrestling. Interestingly, Cabana wrestled a more European style than Castagnoli in these exchanges. Cabana had most of the advantage through these exchanges, giving him an opportunity to showcase his unique style. The story they told was of Cabana consistently getting the better of Castagnoli in these scientific exchanges and Castagnoli getting progressively more frustrated until finally, at 4:30, Castagnoli slapped Cabana in the face and bailed out of the ring. Cabana followed, chased Castagnoli around the ring, Castagnoli rolled back into the ring and, as Cabana tried to follow, Nana grabbed Cabana's ankle. This allowed Castagnoli to hit Cabana with a European uppercut to switch the momentum. This is exactly the same way Shane Hagadorn helped Chris Hero turn the momentum in the opening match, and the third straight match where the heel used an outside distraction to gain the advantage.

Castagnoli worked Cabana over heel style for a while, deploying a lot of elbow drops, chin locks and strikes. The kids in the crowd chanted for a Cabana comeback, the adults not so much. Cabana mounted a comeback at 8:00 by catching Castagnoli's foot on a running boot attempt and striking back at Castagnoli. Cabana had a short flurry of offence, but Castagnoli cut off the comeback by catching Cabana in a cross body attempt and countering it into a spinning backbreaker. Castagnoli tried for his Ricola bomb finisher, but Cabana slipped out of his grasp, landed a couple of quick strikes and then caught Castagnoli with a leverage pin for the win.

WINNER: Cabana in 9:30 to capture a spot in the Pick 6. Pretty good match, but lacking the drama and intensity of a typical ROH TV main event. It was entertaining for what it was though. Cabana is a unique and special talent in the wrestling industry and seems to have good chemistry with Castagnoli.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2009, 12:19 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 12-22-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37594.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Dreamer started with a shoulder tackle, then an arm drag and another one. The announcers talked up Ryder's performance against Kane last week. Meanwhile, Dreamer clotheslined Ryder to the outside and Rosa ran interference, which allowed Ryder to fling Dreamer off the apron to the floor. Back in the ring, Ryder made a cover for a one count. Ryder then followed with a Rough Ryder leg lariat for a two count. The action moved up top and Dreamer executed a superplex. Both men took a breather, then came to their feet and Dreamer went on the offensive. Dreamer executed a powerslam, but Ryder kicked out. Ryder then caught Dreamer with a knee, but Dreamer caught him in mid-air and catapulted Ryder into the corner. Dreamer then hung Ryder upside down in the corner and measured Ryder for the trademark "E-C-W" running basement kick. He suddenly ripped off his ECW t-shirt and chucked it into the crowd. Dreamer then got caught in the ropes and Ryder nailed the Zack Attack for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 5:00. Solid TV match for Dreamer if this was indeed his final WWE TV match. Dreamer surprisingly had plenty of offense and got in his signature spots in the match. The story WWE can play up, though, is Ryder having the bragging rights on "retiring" Dreamer. (*1/4)

2 -- VANCE ARCHER vs. GOLDUST -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

Archer delivered intense offense early on as Mathews continued with the wordy sentences to describe Archer. Goldust made a comeback at 2:00 and hit his drop-down uppercut before tossing Arch across the ring for a two count. Archer then came back with his flip-over (step one) swinging reverse DDT (step two) for the pin and the win. It's an easy move to counter with proper "scouting" in a storyline context. They cut backstage to a shot of ECW champ Christian watching intently on a monitor.

WINNER: Archer in 3:00. Not much here. Quick match to give Archer a relatively strong win to advance to the Homecoming. (n/a)

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. JACK SWAGGER -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

Swagger started with amateur holds to ground Yoshi on the mat. He followed with some clubbing forearms to the back, then fed his knee to Yoshi for a quick roll-up attempt for a two count. Yoshi followed with a kick attempt, but Swagger grabbed his leg and rammed him into the corner to inflict punishment. Swagger then applied a hammerlock to work over the elbow. Yoshi fought out, but Swagger knocked him back to the mat and went back to the mat with submission holds. Swagger then teased the gutwrench bomb, but Yoshi slipped out and teased his finisher, but Swagger bailed to the corner. Yoshi stood his ground in a fighting stance as Swagger recovered and caught his breath.

Back from break, Swagger was still in control as the crowd tried to rally up Yoshi with a "Yoshi" chant. Swagger silenced that with a belly-to-back side suplex for a two count before executing a belly-to-belly suplex. Steiner...er...Swagger did push-ups to taunt Yoshi before delivering a clubbing forearm to the back. Swagger then went back to work on the shoulder with another mat hold.

At the top of the hour, Yoshi broke free, but Swagger nailed him in the back and continued to inflict punishment with forearms. Yoshi tried to come back with kicks, but Swagger responded with a kick strike to the mid-section. Swager then missed with a clothesline and Yoshi suddenly had a burst of energy to deliver a bunch of dropkicks that rendered Swagger's back work meaningless. Yoshi then hit a wheelbarrow bulldog drop ala Rey Mysterio for a two count. Yoshi followed with his rolling kick strike attempt, but Swagger ducked. Yoshi then wanted a corner attack and he elbowed Swagger off the top before hitting a spin kick for a two count. Swagger came back with a running Vader Bomb in the corner, but Yoshi grabbed the bottom rope to block a three count. Swagger argued with the ref, then slowly approached Yoshi, who blasted him out of nowhere with the buzzsaw kick for the pin and the win. And everyone dance. Yoshi is going to Homecoming.

WINNER: Yoshi Tatsu in 14:00. Back-to-back nights where Swagger had plenty of offense in long-form matches, but ultimately lost. Going back to Superstars five days ago, that's three losses in five days in long-form matches. As for the match, it had a strong finish, but Yoshi no-selling all of Swagger's back and shoulder work early in the match was frustrating. It felt like a complete waste of seven minutes watching Swagger methodically work the body parts before Yoshi shook it off and he was completely fine. It's one of those frustrating things about long-form WWE matches - the "Batista babyface formula match" - where the early match work doesn't come into play at the end. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 26 2009, 01:51 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-24-09

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Hermanstyne's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article1009445.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Vladimir Kozlov vs. Ezekiel Jackson ended in a double count-out in 1:25. Both men locked up and Kozlov kicked and tossed Zeke. Zeke got back on the advantage with midsection shots. Both men knocked each other out of the ring and beat on each other. Zeke pushed Kozlov into the ring post and both competitors got counted out.

Mind of Marv: To be honest, the crowd could care less about this matchup. Why was it booked to be a double countout? Sigh…

2. Chavo Guerrero pinned Primo in 5:15. Chavo started with a neck toss and Primo hit a nice leg sweep for a nearfall. Primo applied a wrist lock and Chavo countered with clothesline. Primo worked on Chavo in the corner and went for a rollup for an nearfall. Chavo hit an dropkick for a nearfall. Chavo went for an cover for a nearfall. Chavo applied an half Cobra Clutch.

Chavo hit some blows to Primo but Primo countered with flying elbow. Primo hit a side Russian leg sweep for a nearfall. Primo went for a high flying move but Chavo countered with a dropkick. Chavo gloated and went for the 3 Amigos, but Primo countered with a roll up for a nearfall. Primo went for a body slam but Chavo countered with the Frogsplash for the win.

Mind of Marv: Nice cruiserweight match. Its sad that both of these guys are buried in the undercard. Primo went from being a tag champion to one of Raw’s resident jobbers. While Chavo is comic relief to Hornswoggle or Chris Masters…
The Ask for Divas segment was shown and Maryse’s face was hilarious…

3. Kane defeated Mike Knox in 11:15. Both men lock up and Knox hit an shoulder block. Kane worked on Knox’s left arm and Knox countered with a suplex attempt but Kane countered with a suplex with a nearfall. Kane threw Knox into the ring post and worked on him in the corner. Knox rammed Kane into the corner but Kane countered with a big boot.

The show returned with Kane knocking Knox out of the ring. Kane tried to choke slam Knox, but Knox hit a big boot to Kane. Knox hit a move on Kane’s head and worked on Kane in the corner. Knox clotheslines Kane and went for cover for a nearfall. Kane hit a side slam to Knox. Knox hit a nasty drop kick to Kane for a nearfall.

Knox applied a headlock to Kane but Kane countered with a uppercut and clothesline. Kane hit a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Kane hit the flying clothesline for a nearfall. Knox hit a crossbody for a nearfall. Kane hit another uppercut and tried to choke slam him bit Knox pushed him off and Kane fell. Kane caught Knox in the air and chokeslammed him for the win.

Mind of Marv: Good big man match. I would of rathered seen this than Kane vs. Khali. This has potential to be a good mid-card feud to elevate Knox. I would really like to see Knox get pushed on this brand because he could make a great champion. Overall, this show was decent.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 26 2009, 03:37 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-25-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37641.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - R-TRUTH & FINLAY & MATT HARDY & JOHN MORRISON vs. C.M. PUNK & LUKE GALLOWS & DREW MCINTYRE & DOLPH ZIGGLER

The faces came out together to Truth's theme, and the heels together to Punk's theme. The veteran Finlay started off against Ziggler. Ziggler got the better of Truth, but Punk tagged in and got hip-tossed. Fans were behind Hardy when he tagged in. Three pinfalls in a row to no avail for Punk as they went to break.

Gallows was in control out of break. Ziggler used Hardy's hair to keep him at bay. The announcers discussed Morrison vs. McIntyre for the I.C. Title next week on Smackdown. Hardy made the hot tag to Morrison, who briefly tangled with Punk before C.M. got limber-tail and tagged out. Everyone came in and hit their stuff, with Morrison pinning Ziggler after a Starship Pain.

WINNER: Morrison, at 10:24. Just a way to showcase all eight guys. Ziggler took the pin, but I don't think that is bad news for his immediate future as WWE is protecting the other guys on his team pretty hard (except for Punk sometimes).

2 - REY MYSTERIO vs. THE UNDERTAKER - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Mostly cheers, a few boos for Rey. All cheers for Taker. Rey went off the ropes early and Taker tried to grab him by the throat, but Mysterio sold it like it was a punch. Taker missed his legdrop on the apron and Rey shoved him into the ringpost on the outside, then hit the champ with a suicide dive. They went to break a little over a minute into the match.

Rey kicked at Taker's legs, but Taker put him down. Mysterio low-bridged the Dead Man and baseball slid him. Taker caught a seated senton attempt and slammed Rey into the barricade. Taker worked Rey's left arm. He slammed Rey and signaled that it was over. Rey got out of a Last Ride powerbomb and landed a springboard leg drop for two. Taker came back with a big boot, then he readied for a chokeslam. He landed it, but Batista ran in and attacked him for the DQ.

WINNER: Taker, via DQ, at 9:44.

Batista hit a spinebuster on Taker, but Taker back-dropped out of a Batista Bomb attempt. Rey hit the 619 on Taker and as Taker caught Rey in a chokeslam, Batista speared him. Rey turned the tables and nailed Batista with a 619 and seated senton. Lot going on there at the end, hard to keep track of.

3 - CRYME TYME vs. BRYCE ANDREWS & PAT BUCK

CT came out and threw the gifts from the bag to the fans. Striker talked about the jobbers' credentials, one being a wrestler from Long Island, the other a former boxer. Andrews took some punishment from Shad. Shad lifted Buck over his head and tossed him to ringside, then Cryme Tyme hit their finisher on Andrews for the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme, at 1:41. Just goes to show how thin the tag ranks are.

4 - MICKIE JAMES & MARIA vs. LAYLA & BETH PHOENIX

Mickie was almost in tears before the match and had to be held back from attacking Layla by her partner. A few Dropkicks on Layla by Maria. Spin kick by Layla to turn the tide. Beth tagged in and ran over Maria, doing some choking while she was in there. She didn't get a whole lot of the spotlight. Maria finally made the tag to Mickie, who Thesz Pressed Layla. Mickie dodged another spinning kick and hit a weak one of her own to pick up the win.

WINNERS: James and Maria, at 3:23. McCool and Striker teaming up to insult Grisham on commentary was the highlight.

After the match, Mickie went after McCool, who hid behind the announcers. Out of nowhere, Beth took out Mickie. McCool trash-talked a fallen James, while Beth stared a hole through Michelle as well.

5 - DEGENERATION X vs. THE HART DYNASTY - WWE UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Hip-toss to start by HBK. Striker claimed Michaels ended the Hart presence in WWE. I guess Owen doesn't count. Or Bulldog again later. Long standing vertical suplex by Triple H, with a point to Smith on the apron at the end. Kidd came off the second rope with a double axe-handle, but Trips met him with a kick to the gut. He set up for the Pedigree, but it was too close to the ropes, as Smith clotheslined him and tagged in as they went to break.

Back with Kidd illegally softening up Hunter in the corner. Smith tagged and and completed a standing suplex on Hunter. The Harts continued to cut off the ring. Hunter finally made thet ag when he took Kidd down. Natalya, though, pulled Kidd out of the way of an elbowdrop from Michaels. Springboard blockbuster by Kidd for two. Hard whip by Smith sent Shawn up and over the turnbuckle. Nattie slapped HBK while the ref's attention was elsewhere. Striker, with this gem: "I've been in the ring with Smith, I've trained with Kidd....and I've had lunch with Natalya, so I know what is going through their minds right now." Smith worked over HBK for a while, but Kidd ended up springboarding into an atomic drop. HBK made the tag to Triple H, who just abused Smith. The Harts managed to land their finisher on Hunter, but Shawn broke up the pin. Kidd missed a splash on HBK on the outside, leading to Shawn superkicking Smith into a Triple H Pedigree to finish things.

WINNERS: DX, at 15:40. Good tag match and it just goes to show how entertaining the division could be if WWE actually invested some time into it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 30 2009, 02:16 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-28-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37697.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. (w/Randy Orton neutral ringside) vs. EVAN BOURNE

It appears WWE has addressed the most-obvious criticism of the lack of promotion/marketing for the "Marine 2" movie by finally incorporating the movie into a storyline - the announcers sold that perhaps Orton believes DiBiase has lost his focus on wrestling with the movie role. DiBiase was in control early on, but Bourne came back with a rapid-fire top rope huracanrana and a close two count. Bourne teased Air Bourne, but DiBiase blocked and dropped Bourne face-first on the mat in the corner. That looked off when it appeared DiBiase was going for a corner turnbuckle face-plant. DiBiase then followed up immediately with Dream Street for the pin and the win. Orton didn't appear to be convinced while DiBiase simply paced the ring post-victory.

WINNER: DiBiase at 2:31. Fine. Just fine. Only fitting Bourne loses his final Raw match of the year in short fashion to run his loss total to about 301. (n/a)

2 -- CODY RHODES (w/Randy Orton neutral ringside) vs. MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and Henry tossed Cody clear across the ring before delivering a big shoulder tackle. Henry then teased a sit-out bomb, but Cody moved and kinda rolled across Henry's stomach like a kid jumping on dad sitting around the Christmas tree. Henry then ran over Cody with clotheslines before nailing a headbutt. Henry followed with a running butt bomb to crunch Cody's neck into the ropes. Henry slid through the ropes on the way down and started selling a knee injury. He slapped the mat in frustration to sell it some more. Back in the ring, Cody slipped out of a press slam and took out the knee. Cody then stomped Henry's foot and delivered a DDT for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Orton just slumped down in his chair and let his body dangle in a mix of frustration and fake enthusiasm. Orton got up from his chair and shook hands with Cody before playfully slapping him on the head to escort him away from ringside. Cody left with Orton patting him on the back.

WINNER: Cody at 2:05. I feel like nothing was accomplished here. Another tease of dissension and another short-term resolution. Hopefully there's a payoff down the line. Match finish was fine, as it's physically unrealistic for Cody to beat Henry without help - either from interference or an injury. (n/a)

3 -- KELLY KELLY vs. MARYSE

Kelly started off aggressive with a couple of early nearfalls. Kelly then airballed on her running handspring elbow in the corner, which allowed Maryse to nail her hair-flip & a DDT for the pin and the win. Post-match: Maryse took the mic and cackled like a witch. She said she hopes Melina is watching because she's the next Divas champion. Maryse cackled some more, then turned back to Kelly to deliver a kick to the stomach. Girl is crazy.

WINNER: Maryse at 1:39. I assume there will be a Melina-Maryse title match in January before the Rumble after they managed to stretch out a Maryse-Kelly program all of two weeks. (n/a)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

After a brief exchange, Miz went up top and Kofi caught him off the top with a smashing Trouble in Paradise kick to the face. He made the pin for the win on the lifeless Miz. After the bell sounded, Kofi's music hit to make the outcome official. Kofi wanted Miz to get up, but they cut to commercial before the title match started.

WINNER: Kofi at 0:47. (n/a)

5 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- U.S. Title match

The action was joined in progress coming back from break with Kofi in control with multiple nearfalls. Kofi then connected with a twisting Boom Drop. He did his multiple clap motion to warm up the TiP and he connected. Miz rolled to the ropes and the ref began a count, but Randy Orton stormed the ring and yanked Kofi out of the ring for the match to be thrown out. Orton assaulted Kofi before dropping him on the floor with the RKO. Orton stared down at Kofi and the camera stayed with Orton for a while as he simply stared down at Kofi.

WINNER: Kofi via DQ at 1:32; Miz retains the U.S. Title. Rough night for Miz, who had zero offense here. Good to see WWE resuming the Orton-Kofi feud with Orton back to his awesome heel ways as one of the top characters on the roster. Good focus on Orton here. (n/a)

6 -- Unified tag champions DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. BIG SHOW & CHAVO GUERRERO -- non-title match

Jericho sold disdain ringside in the "jilted lover" role. Chavo cheated to take control on Michaels early on for Show & Chavo as Jericho began shouting encouragement from the front row. "Hey, Jericho, down in front!" said some of the fans on the second row. Best comedy of the night right there. Michaels then made a hot tag to Hunter, who cleaned house before accepting a spear from Big Show. Chavo then tagged in and went up top to stand on Show's shoulders. Show then launched Chavo for the ugliest-looking frog splash that missed badly. Michaels then came in and took Show over the top rope. Suddenly, Hornswoggle interjected himself into the match and dropped Chavo to his knees for a Pedigree attempt, but Chavo back-dropped him. In the confusion, Hunter greeted Chavo for the actual Pedigree, which benefited from being juxtaposed against Hornswoggle's attempt. Hunter, the legal man, made the pin for the win.

Post-match: A fan hopped the railing and started yelling at people, then Show, then he cleared the ring steps. The fan threw off his jacket and complained about DX before Shawn Michaels superkicked him off the ring apron. Hunter then took the mic and asked the fan, Chris, if he wants the re-match, then he has it. Hunter told him if he loses next week, then no more silliness or tickets or protests, because he's gone forever from Raw. Michaels closed with a promo saying what's up next week. Cole recapped DX vs. JeriShow for the tag titles as Lawler said "next week keeps getting bigger and bigger."

WINNERS: DX at 5:10. They found a way to stretch out the DX vs. JeriShow program with Chris Jericho not officially part of Raw to set up next week's re-match trying to put their best forward against TNA on January 4 to start 2010. Match was fine, but it didn't put Michaels in the best light selling for Chavo of all people here. You could almost hear people closing their wallets on WM26 for a Michaels vs. Taker match. (*)

7 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match

They came face-to-face, then Cena landed the first right hand blow. Cena tried to fire off his bulldog early on, but Sheamus countered and landed multiple right hand blows to the head and back. Sheamus followed with shoulder blocks in the corner before making a cover for a two count. Cena then retreated to a corner for a breather as Sheamus stalked him, but Cena came back with "vintage" shoulder tackles and a sit-out slam. Cena then set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle routine and delivered. He teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus grabbed the top rope and then the ref. Ref Chioda called for the bell for a DQ after Cena delivered the AA.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 2:20; Sheamus retains the WWE Title. There was more time spent on videos and graphics promoting the match than the actual match itself. Almost a fitting way to close 2009 with a lot of sizzle and not a lot of steak in the Raw brand's main event scene. That said, Sheamus looked strong by show's end, which absolutely needed to happen, and Cena has a storyline-driven reason to seek revenge in 2010 with three or four weeks still remaining to sell the Royal Rumble PPV.

Vince McMahon officially announced Bret 'Hitman' Hart will be the guest host of RAW next Monday night.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 30 2009, 11:08 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 12-29-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37728.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and Dreamer's farewell moment.

1 -- MATT HARDY vs. FINLAY -- ECW Homecoming match

Mathews explained the rules of the deal where the winners of the eight qualifying matches will be in a battle royal on Jan. 12. Winner gets ECW champ Christian at the Rumble. Early on, Hardy shoulder a left knee injury and the ref checked on Hardy to see if he wanted to compete. Finlay then targeted the knee to begin his attack. To fill time, Christian went back to the Edge & Christian days for a history lesson on sitting in on commentary when the Hardys were Hardy Boyz. Contained in Christian's commentary was another name-drop for Jeff Hardy on WWE TV. Hardy made a comeback at 3:00 on one good knee, then Hardy yanked Finlay off the second rope for a two count. Hardy then went to the corner for a top-rope moonsault, but Finlay moved and he followed with a cover for a two count. Finlay then slowly picked up Hardy, but Hardy surprised him with a Twist of Fate for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 5:00 to advance to the ECW Homecoming. Slow, sluggish match. Hardy selling a knee injury gave him an "out" for the plodding pace to the match, but the highlight of the match was Christian on commentary. (1/2*)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. MIKE KNOX -- ECW Homecoming match

Bourne checked in at 183 pounds. Knox at 293 pounds. Mathews filled us in that Knox studies kinesiology in his spare time. Before the bell sounded, Bourne could visibly be seen asking the referee, "four?" to see how much time they had in the ring. The bell sounded and the good doctor lifted Bourne in the air, but Bourne took both of them over the top rope to the floor. Knox then rammed Bourne into the guardrail and returned to the ring. The ref reached a perilous seven count, but they cut to a replay, so you knew Bourne would make it back in the ring. Back in the ring, Dr. Knox went to work on Bourne's neck to dissect the human anatomy. Bourne then came back with kick strikes, but Knox ran him over with a splash near the ropes. Bourne blocked a pin attempt by grabbing the bottom ropes, though, then smashed Knox in the corner. Bourne wanted Air Bourne, but Knox crotched him. Bourne came back with a

WINNER: Bourne in 4:00. Well, we knew it was going four minutes after Bourne clued in the audience pre-match. Good win for Bourne. I don't write that sentence very often. Anyways, Bourne is back in the win column advancing to the Homecoming in two weeks. (*)

3 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes)

After Ryder made his way to the ring following the commercial, Dreamer went to work on Ryder while Rosa cried in anguish from ringside. The action moved to the floor where Dreamer clotheslined Ryder, who then used Rosa as a shield to take control of the action. Cut to break.

Back from break, the announcers spoke in code on whether it was wise for Dreamer to make this decision. Ryder continued to work over Dreamer, who then missed with a corner shoulderblock and Ryder went to work on the shoulder. Ryder tried a clothesline, but Dreamer ducked and landed a neckbreaker. Dreamer then went to the corner, but Ryder crotched him. He wanted the Zack Attack, but Dreamer blocked with a pin attempt for a two count. They followed with a series of pin attempts, but the exchange only resulted in nearfalls. Ryder then came back with the Rough Ryder drop, but Dreamer kicked out. This all seemed to happen in slow-motion, but it made for good drama.

Ryder then went to the corner for a moonsault, but Dreamer hung him upside down for one last "E-C-W" running basement dropkick after big build-up. "Vintage Tommy Dreamer," Mathews said. Dreamer then hit the Dreamer DDT and scored a three count, but Ryder had his foot under the bottom rope. The ref waved off the three count after Dreamer thought he had it won. Dreamer argued with the ref, but then went back to work. Ryder suddenly crucifix pinned Dreamer, but Dreamer kicked out just before three. Dreamer then took Ryder to the corner for a suplex, but Ryder fell on top of Dreamer on the way down to the mat. He made a cover and Dreamer flailed his arms to sell trying to escape the pin, but Ryder scored the three count for the win.

WINNER: Ryder in 13:00. Slow-motion action here, but very strong points for the drama with the multiple nearfalls and tension in the air for the imminent finish. Good final match for Dreamer in WWE, even if it wasn't the most aesthetically-pleasing. (*3/4)

Post-match: The announcers sold disbelief Dreamer is gone from ECW. After a replay aired, Dreamer took the mic and said he sat in this arena way back in the day for a Piper's Pit by Rowdy Piper. Dreamer transitioned right into a farewell speech, thanking everyone from the Original ECW, which drew cheers. Dreamer said it's been his dream since he was nine-years-old and it proves if you have passion for what you do, you can make it anywhere. He said he made it in ECW and he made it in WWE. Dreamer said he will miss many people in the organization before pausing to say he told himself not to cry.

Dreamer said these three letters mean a lot to me. He said they're supposed to address the fans as WWE Universe, but he considers the fans his family. Dreamer said one of his daughters is in kindergarten and she told her classmates her father falls down a lot, but her other daughter said he gets up a lot. They cut to a shot of Beulah on the front row holding their daughters. Tears were streaming. Dreamer said life is about getting down, then getting back up. He thanked the fans for their support, which drew a standing ovation from most of the fans. One fan on the front tried to lead an "E-C-W" chant, then Dreamer took off his ECW t-shirt and placed on the mat. He then grabbed his daughters on the front row and carried them in his arms up the entranceramp. They waved to the camera before Dreamer did one last "aaaaaahhh" pose on the stage. His music played on the way out with Dreamer disappearing in the back with his daughters, who notably were dressed in all-red for an HD-quality presentation.

JC: A memorable send-off for Dreamer and the unofficial end of the ECW brand on the final ECW TV episode of 2009. WWE still has the ECW Homecoming concept ongoing for the next few weeks leading to the Rumble, but this was symbolic of what's to come with the brand. It was nice to see WWE give Dreamer a proper send-off, even if he will be going to TNA.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 02 2010, 01:31 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-31-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37773.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Divas champion MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX -- non-title match

Alicia tried to run away from Melina early on, but Melina chased her down on the stage. Melina dragged her back down the entrance ramp into the ring, but Alicia cut her off back in the ring and went on the attack. Melina made her comeback and they went to the finish where Melina hit a sunset flip bomb near the ropes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Melina in 5:00. Fine match. They stretched out the match length with Alicia running away mid-match and WWE gave them ample time in the ring (compared to two minutes on Raw) without the time constraints of hitting time cues on a live Raw. (*)

2 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. VANCE ARCHER

Mathews and Saxton tried to give us some storyline background on Archer that he was "discovered in Japan" by ECW GM Tiffany and it appears Archer has a "devious secret" that he doesn't want to share. Well, that's something. Archer went to work on Shelton and they had the ringside audio up to catch some of Archer's trash-talking. Shelton then came back with a turnaround splash off the corner turnbuckles before ducking a clothesline to drop Archer with a bridging German Suplex for a two count. Shelton tried a cat-like leap in the corner, but Archer cut his legs out from under him and hung Shelton upside down in the corner to wrench his neck back. Shelton then slapped Archer across the mouth, which led to Archer snapping. Arch pounded on Shelton in the corner with multiple kicks and stomps, and the ref reached a five count for a DQ on Archer. Post-match: Archer grunted and hit his sweeping reverse DDT to KO Shelton.

WINNER: Shelton via DQ in 4:00. The focus was on getting over Archer's offense, intensity, and cartoonish heel mannerisms usually reserved for the perpetrator on Law & Order or CSI. Shelton, meanwhile, has slowly moved down the ECW ladder - excuse the pun - after being booked to lose the ladder match to Christian at the PPV. It's the classic start/stop Shelton push that has defined his singles career. (*)

3 -- CRYME TYME (SHAD GASPARD & JTG) vs. MIKE KNOX & CHARLIE HAAS

Cryme Tyme took control on Knox early on, then Haas provided a distraction on Shad allowing Knox to spear Shad in the left knee region. Dr. Knox began dissecting the knee before taking in Haas for a half-crab with an ankle twist. Nice hold. Shad eventually grabbed the bottom rope for a break, then Haas went back to work on Shad's lower extremities. The doctor returned and attacked the knee, then Shad kicked Knox away and finally tagged in JTG, who cleaned house. JTG hit a facebuster on Haas out of the corner, but Knox broke up a pin attempt. Shad then clotheslined Knox to the floor and Haas superkicked Shad's knee to eliminate him. Haas turned back to JTG, who dropped Haas with his swinging necktie drop - the Shout Out - for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cryme Tyme in 5:00. Fine tag match. Just a showcase for Cryme Tyme while also getting Charlie Haas back on TV. Knox doesn't win matches, so the outcome was rather predictable ahead of time. (*1/4)

4 -- MVP & CHRIS MASTERS (w/Eve) vs. JACK SWAGGER & CARLITO

MVP and Carlito started things off while Cole and Lawler talked about Masters being a new man since his pecs started dancing. Swagger entered and worked over MVP, prompting discussion of Swagger "going toe-to-toe" with John Cena on Raw two weeks ago. MVP then set up Swagger for his ballin' blow drop and he connected. Swagger rolled to the floor for a breather, but MVP caught him with a plancha. MVP was in control, prompting Cole to shout: "Flexin' and Ballin'." Oh man, that's going to stick as a tag team. Let's get a break.

Jim Ross's voice was back on the air describing John Morrison's "sizzle" in a Superstars profile video coming back from break. After another "Bret Hart returns to Raw" video aired, they went back to the main event where Swagger had MVP in a hold on the mat. This has been pretty much all MVP vs. Swagger thus far. Carlito then came in at 8:00 to work over MVP. Lawler promptly filled time by equating women to cell phones. Swagger then came back in and slapped Masters before going back to work on MVP, who teased a hot tag. Lawler filled time this time around by talking college bowls. He told Cole to enjoy the Rose Bowl, not the Punch Bowl this time.

Masters finally got his hot tag at 10:00 and the crowd popped. Never thought that would happen. Masters press-slammed Carlito, who was legal, then Masters flexed his pecs and slapped on the Masterlock for another crowd reaction. Swagger then broke it up, but he took a spin in the Masterlock momentarily before MVP clotheslined Swagger and himself out of the ring. In the confusion, Carlito caught Masters from behind with the Backstabber for the pin and the win, which took the air out of the arena and did not meet Eve's satisfaction.

WINNERS: Swagger & Carlito in 12:00. Solid tag match, as Superstars seems to bring out the best of tag action in WWE. The ending was exactly what you're looking for as a wrestler with the crowd reaching its crescendo of emotional investment before the heels pulled the rug out from under everyone with Carlito scoring the win. WWE smartly limited Masters's exposure in the ring with MVP taking most of the reps during the match, but Masters could be a nice babyface attraction in 2010 based on the crowd reaction here. He's very limited in the ring, but they have something with the dancing pecs and the Masterlock, which is one of the most over signature moves in WWE. They just need to do something with that generic new ring entrance music. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 02 2010, 01:44 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-31-09

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37772.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - MADISON RAYNE vs. HAMADA - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT FIRST-ROUND MATCH

Crowd was into Hamada early on. Hamada worked over Madison's right arm, with an arm-wringer and elbows. Rayne reversed with a wrist-lock take-down. Straight boot to the face by Hamada as Rayne was doing some taunting. Hamda went Old School, Undertaker-style, but she missed the arm drag off the top as it looked like she may have accidentally let go of Rayne. Neck-breaker from Rayne got two. After some more offense from Rayne, another front kick from Hamada put Rayne down. Then a standing side-kick nearly took Rayne's head off. Headbutts and chops from the import. Rayne dodged a moonsault, and Hamada tried to land on her feet, but lost her balance. Spin kick by Hamada, then a Hamada Driver for the win.

WINNER: Hamda, at 4:25. Wasn't Hamada's smoothest performance, but still better than most of the women's wrestling on TV.

2 - TRACI BROOKS vs. ODB - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT FIRST-ROUND MATCH

ODB spit whatever she drank out of the flask, into Traci's eyes to start the match. Traci fired back with some weak forearms, but ODB slammed her down. ODB went to work on the arm of Traci that was exposed as having a birth defect. Double-leg take-down by Brooks and she continued her brawling offense. Single-arm DDT by ODB though, only getting a two-count on the pin. Spear by Brooks as the back-and-forth action went on. ODB got to her feet first, but Brooks landed a few chops. Atomic drop by Brooks, then she ripped off her half t-shirt (honoring the incoming Hulkster?), with a small bra barely containing her cleavage. High-impact move by ODB on the arm, then a TKO for the win. Who would've thought that they'd use the name Marc Mero used for that move, rather than Brock Lesnar's F5?

WINNER: ODB, at 4:16. Well, it had some psychology, which is a plus for a women's match.

3 - ROXXI vs. VELVET SKY - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT FIRST-ROUND MATCH

Hard to believe Roxxi is the same woman that played the Voodoo Queen a few years ago. Big splash in the corner by Sky (well, I don't know that it was "big" per se), then a bulldog. She locked in the octopus, then bit Roxxi on the arm. Roxxi came back with rights then elbowed Velvet in the chest in the corner. Velvet dodged a slam but Roxxi locked in a front hammer-lock and hit the Voodoo Drop for the win.

WINNER: Roxxi, at 2:13. Fine for what it was.

4 - DAFFNEY vs. AWESOME KONG - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT FIRST-ROUND MATCH

Daffney tried a test of strength, but thought better of it. She took Kong down to one knee and tried the test from there but again, it didn't work. Couple chops to Daffney's chest. Kong put the boot right in the neck of Daffney in the corner. She dropped down, landing right on Daffney's leg and knee. Kong picked Daffney up and put her on her shoulders, taking Daffney's foot and bending her so she kicked herself in the back of the head. Daffney tried to run away, but Kong whipped the Scream Queen into the steel steps. Back in the ring, Daffney got a few kicks in, but her offense seemed largely ineffective. Daffney missed a clotheslined and Kong rocked her with an Implant Buster. Game over.

WINNER: Kong, at 3:30. Dominant performance from Kong, probably what it needed to be. Too bad it was against Daffney.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 02 2010, 01:44 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-31-09

Continued from previous post...

5 - LORELAI & APRIL HUNTER vs. TAYLOR WILDE & SARITA

April Hunter, that's a name from the past. The Invasion noted that they considered Taylor and Sarita possible opponents for their tag titles. Double-teaming by the faces on Lorelai. Williams gets pointes for mentioning how the skullduggery for the heels went south. April took over on offense but quickly tagged out and Lorelai got a face-buster for two. Tag to Hunter, who teased Wilde. But Wilde came back with a Codebreaker. Both women made tags and Sarita landeda hip=lock take-over. Sarita dodged Hunter, who hit the floor. Some not-so-great double-teaming ended with the win for the champs.

WINNERS: Wilde and Sarita, at 2:46. The Invasion were awesome on commentary. That's all I have constructive to say about that segment.

6 - ROXXI vs. HAMADA - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMNET SEMI-FINAL MATCH

Hamada wrapped Roxxi up on the mat, but Roxxi came back with a few headlocks. Test of strength won by Hamada as she twisted the boot. A few reversals later and Hamada got the ropes to break. Hamada and Roxxi traded arm-drags, and simultaneously dropkicked each other. The fans expressed their appreciation for the match. Abdominal stretch by Hamada, then a double-stomp onto Roxxi's back. Boston crab by Hamada, turned into a single-leg. Boot to the face by Roxxi that turned the tide for a two-count. Hamada met Roxxi up on the top rope, but couldn't suplex her off. Jumping kick by Hamada though. Hurricanrana off the top for only two by Hamada. Dropkick off the top, but Roxxi slid out of a move for a two-count roll-up. Hamada Driver, but a reversal into a roll-up for two. Voodoo Drop, but Hamada kicked out. Another near-fall for Roxxi. Hamada was able to avoid another Voodoo Drop and rolled up Roxxi for three.

WINNER: Hamada, at 7:49. I've arrived at my family's New Year's party, so some of them gathered in the living room to watch me and the show; I was too distracted by their little side comments to really enjoy this match.

7 - ODB vs. AWESOME KONG - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT SEMI-FINAL MATCH

ODB met Kong in the aisle and started brawling with her. ODB got thrown into the steps, hitting thigh-first in a painful looking move. ODB turned things around and slammed Kong's head off the ring steps. Kong turned ODB around and slapped her in the chest. Kong began to drag ODB back into the ring but ODB took over on offense as they went to break at about three minutes.

ODB tried a sleeper hold, but that worked about as well as you'd think. Same went with the shoulder-block attempts. Splash into the corner by ODB, then she preceeded to kick away at Kong. Bronco Buster by ODB. Pin attemtpt for two. She tried to slam Kong, but Kong fell on her for two. Hard clothesline by Kong after one attempt by ODB. Kong backed into ODB in the corner, butg it showed a lot of light. ODB pulled the ref into the corner on a charge and Jamie Tucker took the brunt of Kong's splash. Kong got ODB up for a powerbomb, but ODB used the alcohol bottle on Kong's head. She got the pin as the referee came to.

WINNER: ODB, at 9:41. You had to know neither woman was going over cleanly here, so the finish was smart.

8 - HAMADA vs. ODB - KNOCKOUTS TOURNAMENT FINALS MATCH

So if Hamada wins, does this mean she has two matches Monday night: One for the Tag Titles and one for the Knockouts Title? ODB pie-faced Hamada, and Hamada responded with headbutts. Springboard DDT by Hamada for a quick two-count. ODB wanted a break, so she went to the outside. She took her sweet time recovering on the outside. Kick to the face by ODB for two, but Magistral cradle by Hamada got two as well. ODB hung Hamada upside down in the corner and worked her over as they went to break.

ODB was getting frustrated by the near-fallas at this point in the match. Splash missed by ODB in the corner and Hamada came back with an enziguiri. The women traded chops and open-handed slaps until Hamada ended that with four straight headbutts. Spring-board cross-body for two by Hamada. Another spin kick variation by Hamada for two. Jaw-breaker by ODB turned the momentum her way. At this point, Awesome Kong walked down the ramp with a table. This distracted ODB, who demanded referee Slick Johnson kick her out. Kong set up the table as a few more refs came out to try to get Kong to the back. She left, with the table still standing. Kick to the head by Hamada and ODB rolled to ringside. Hamada came off the apron and somersaulted onto ODB. She pointed toward the table, of course, getting a pop from the blood-thirsty fans. Bigger than usual table too. Headbutt sent ODB onto the table. Hamada went to the top for a moonsault and missed, as ODB was able to slide off the table just in time. ODB rolled Hamada into the ring and hit the TKO to win the tournament.

WINNER: ODB, at 14:34. Longest women's match in some time. Pretty good too, though they may have telegraphed putting Hamada in this match when she's already in one on Monday night.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 03 2010, 12:59 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37790.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – C.M. PUNK vs. MATT HARDY – BEAT-THE-CLOCK CHALLENGE MATCH

The bell rang as soon as they came back from break. Quick roll-up by Hardy for a one-count. Inside cradle by Hardy a minute later for two. They went through a bit of a feeling-out process. Striker lauded the opportunity Punk has given people to join the Straight-Edge society. Front suplex by Hardy, but Punk turned the tables by choking Hardy on the top rope. Punk didn’t seem to be in a hurry as he settled into a head-scissors about 3:15 into the match. He again took his time after hitting a move to stand around a bit before going for a cover. Striker acknowledged that Punk was trying to wear Hardy down, rather than go for a quick win. Hardy made his comeback just shy of six minutes in, which included a bulldog out of the corner for a near-fall. Striker talked about the time between six and eight minutes, when wrestlers may start to lose their juice. Punk finished off Hardy with the GTS.

WINNER: Punk, at 7:20. Technically fine, but aside from the first few seconds, neither man really showed the desire to finish the match as soon as possible.

2 – KANE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – BEAT-THE-CLOCK CHALLENGE MATCH

Striker suggested that because of Ziggler’s amateur background, where he’s used to trying to win as quickly as possible, this kind of match could favor him. Ziggler and Kane did some chain wrestling and Kane held his own with the Kent State graduate. Standing vertical suplex by Kane about 1:30 into the match. Low dropkick by the big man for two. Ziggler held on during a back-body drop attempt, and turned it into somewhat of a DDT. Punk and Gallows were shown watching this match on the monitor backstage. Grisham laughably said that Ziggler ended 2009 on quite a winning streak. Kane awkwardly slammed Ziggler but missed an elbowdrop. Fameasser by Ziggler for two. The other thing about this is how the announcers talk about 7:20 as being a difficult time to beat, when on Raw, hardly any matches last that long. Big boot by Kane on Ziggler. He couldn’t pick up the win, however. Sidewalk slam for another two-count. Running powerslam by the Big Red Machine for only two. He went to the top, but Ziggler stopped him with 1:30 to go. Kane found the mark on a top rope clothesline, but again, couldn’t seal the deal. Under a minute to go, Kane went for a chokeslam, but Ziggler choked him on the ropes. Sleeper by Ziggler with :40 to go. It was more of a headlock, really. Ziggler got Kane to the mat, but he did not give up by the time the buzzer rang.

WINNER: No Contest, at 7:20. Didn’t really expect Ziggler or Kane to set the mark here, but a win over someone the caliber of Kane at some point wouldn’t hurt Ziggler.

3 – THE CAROLINA PANTHER vs. THE GREAT KHALI

The Panther was some jobber wearing a Julius Peppers jersey, likely to get heat in front of the New York Giants-loving crowd after the Giants laid an egg against the Panther. The Panther got down in a football stance and tried to punch away at the mid-section of Khali. Khali just gave the Khali Bomb to Panther.

WINNER: Khali, at :28. Just like the real Carolina Panthers in 2009, this Carolina Panther was going nowhere.

4 – JOHN MORRISON vs. DREW MCINTYRE – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Flying leg kick by Morrison soon after the bell rang, then he sent Mac to the outside. Morrison went off the barricade to land on McIntyre, but Drew moved and Morrison landed on his feet. He went back up and ended up flipping onto McIntyre, though it looked like McIntyre was going to pull him down. Morrison’s leg ended up getting caught in the middle and bottom rope and McIntyre took full advantage, weakening the leg. Striker said the last time this title changed hands in this city was in 1999. Morrison tried to fight out of McIntyre’s leg holds and did end up catching McIntyre with a Flying Chuck for a two-count. Nice back-breaker by McIntyre for two. The champ removed the top turnbuckle pad and the referee had to physically restrain Morrison from beating on McIntyre. McIntyre pushed Morrison into the referee, who only saw Morrison running him over, and disqualified Morrison.

WINNER: McIntyre, by DQ, at 4:47. Disappointingly short, but this DQ finish by the heel to keep his belt is a lot easier to stomach the ones that are happening on Raw.

After the match, Morrison and McIntyre brawled on the ramp as the entire referee locker room emptied to break things up. I miss the agents breaking stuff like this up.

5 – BETH PHOENIX vs. MICKIE JAMES

Back-breaker by Phoenix for a quick two-count. Mickie came off the top with a Thesz Press for two. Layla jumped up on the apron to distract the ref. McCool got on the apron as well and went to kick James, but she kicked Beth accidentally. James then rolled Beth up for the win.

WINNER: Mickie, at 1:02. I wonder if they were running long, because this seemed shorter than usual.

6 – CHRIS JERICHO vs. REY MYSTERIO – BEAT-THE-CLOCK MATCH

Jericho gave a beating to Rey, then threw him under the bottom rope and this time, Rey did not do a flip recovery. Punk and Gallows were again shown watching this match backstage. Rey got back on the apron at seven and got a ton of air on a springboard cross-body for two. Jericho quickly turned things back in his favor and headbutted Mysterio down. Enziguiri by Rey set Jericho up for a 619, but Jericho with a lucha-libre style back-drop (according to Striker). Four minutes in, Jericho had Rey locked in a potential submission hold on the mat. Rey got out of it and went to the top, landing a flying headbutt to the chest, shades of El Hijo del Santo (again, according to Striker). Springboard cross-body off the second rope for two. Rey powered out of a Walls of Jericho attempt, but couldn’t capitalize. Back-breaker by Jericho for two. With 1:30 left, Jericho taunted Rey , but got set up again for the 619. Jericho caught the attempt and locked in the Walls of Jericho. Mysterio re-positioned himself to escape and finally hit the 619. With 30 seconds left, Rey tried a springboard, but Jericho caught him in mid-air with an awesome-looking Codebreaker. Jericho couldn’t make the cover in time, as he was still nursing injuries. Ten seconds to go, he tried to get Rey off the mat for a move, but Rey got an inside cradle and registered the pin with one second left.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 7:19. Great timing by all three of the men in the ring on that one, as it all looked very fluid and no one had to go purposely fast/slow to meet the necessary time.

7 – R-TRUTH vs. BATISTA – BEAT-THE-CLOCK MATCH

Batista slammed into Truth in the corner and kept an eye on Mysterio. Roll-up out of the corner by Truth for two. Leg-drop followed that up. Batista was back on offense in no time and landed a suplex on the former K-Kwik. Truth dodged a charge in the corner and did his usual dance, but Batista kicked him in the face when he went for a split. Truth got out of a Batista Bomb attempt and kicked his opponent in the head, sending him to the outside. He launched himself onto Batista on the outside. The two went at it on the outside, but Batista caught Truth coming in and slammed him shoulder-first into the ring post. Batista threw Truth into the steel steps as Striker proclaimed this beating a message to Rey Mysterio. With three minutes to go, Batista continued toying with R-Truth. Truth fought back with rights and a dropkick. Bossman slam by The Animal got two. With 2:00 to go, Truth got a desperation DDT for a two-count. Spinning axe kick for another near-fall. Batista didn’t connect on either of two charges in the corner, but he swatted Truth away on a dropkick off the top rope. Under a minute to go, and Batista speared Truth. He kept making sure to look at Rey after each high-impact move. Spinebuster by Batista with :25 to go. Batista Bomb found the mark with under ten seconds to go, but on a two-count, the referee got pulled out of the ring by Mysterio. Isn’t that a DQ?

WINNER: No Contest, at 7:19. Boy, WWE is actively trying to make their referees look like idiots apparently. How is that not a DQ, allowing Batista to move on? I mean, I’d prefer to see Rey vs. Taker as well (for the reasons I listed at the top of the report), but the last few weeks has been TNA-level booking of finishes and referee incompetence.

- Rey celebrated on the ramp as Batista glared at him from the ring. That looked like the ending, but Vickie Guerrero came out. She said Rey just cheated Batista, so Rey will take on Batista next week to determine the true number one contender. Didn’t we just have this match for the number one contender, like, two weeks ago?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 05 2010, 04:02 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37867.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MARYSE vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) -- Divas Title first round tournament match

The action moved to the floor early on where Nikki rammed Maryse head-first into the announce table behind the ref's back. Wait, who's face and heel here? Behind the ref's back again, Nikki and Brie did the switch. Maryse saw it, though, and dropped Nikki with the hair-flip DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Maryse at 2:15. The favorite advances in the tournament. Okay action for two minutes. (n/a)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP vs. CARLITO vs. MARK HENRY

The match was joined in progress with Carlito and Mark Henry added to the mix. Miz name-dropped Spencer Pratt for a reality TV plug-in. Henry was on the outside at the start of this, then he came into the ring for a pop to attack Swagger. Suddenly, Henry and MVP turned on each other and Henry dumped MVP to the floor. Henry then used Carlito's feet as a battering ram on Swagger. Miz kept talking like a great heel before Henry teased a victory with a bear hug on Carlito. Swagger broke it up and Miz said Henry should be on "Biggest Loser." Nice NBC promotional tie-in. Henry then put Swagger in a modified Torture Rack. It's official - we're in 1997. The action broke down and MVP teased the Playmaker on Swagger. After a struggle to set up the move, MVP executed to score the pin for the win. After the match, Miz stood up and told him he's a pretender while MVP did his Ballin' motion toward Miz.

WINNER: MVP at 3:40 to become #1 contender to the U.S. Title. Fine organized chaos. No word on when the U.S. Title match is taking place. (*)

3 -- Unified tag champions DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H w/Hornswoggle) vs. BIG SHOW & CHRIS JERICHO -- Unified tag title match

After intros took place, Michaels executed a round of chops that generated "Whoos" from the crowd. Sorry, wrong show tonight. Big Show then executed a double suplex to send them into a commercial 47 seconds into the match.

They returned from break about 30 seconds before the top of the hour with Big Show in control working over Hunter. Cole reset the action at the top of the hour with a chat on Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels hugging at the top of the show. Another plug for McMahon confronting Hart on his terms tonight. Jericho then entered and took control. Jericho suddenly cupped his ear ala Hulk Hogan, which drew a mix of boos and cheers. Jericho smiled, then went to work on Hunter. (Announcers did not acknowledge the ear-cupping, by the way.) Michaels finally took a hot tag at 7:45 and went "vintage" on Big Show with multiple flying forearms following kip-ups before going to the knees with a dropkick to get Show off his feet. Michaels then went up top for an elbow, but Jericho ran across the ring and crotched him. Suddenly, Hornswoggle entered and sat on Show's chest, which only scored a nearfall.

Michaels then warmed up the band for a superkick, but Show countered with a big chokeslam. He didn't make an immediate cover, which gave Michaels an out to kick out just before a three count. Jericho then tagged in and tried the Walls of Jericho, but Michaels flung him away and in came Hunter. Hunter quickly smashed Jericho with the Pedigree for a big pop, but Show broke it up. Hot action here. Hunter then wanted the Pedigree on Show and he connected with Michaels...jumping across the ring to help. Almost seemed like a superkick was coming on Hunter. Suddenly, Jericho shoved Hunter into Michaels and Jericho nearly rolled up Hunter, but only scored a two count. Jericho then smashed Hunter with the codebreaker, but both men collapsed to the mat. Jericho eventually made a cover, but Michaels flew into the ring for a break. Horny then entered the ring and tuned up for a superkick, but Jericho smashed Hornswoggle in the head. Hunter teased the Pedigree, but Jericho countered with the Walls of Jericho. With the ref focused on clearing Horny out of there, Michaels superkicked Jericho and Hunter made the cover for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: DX at 12:01 to retain the Unified tag titles. Very strong title match for TV. Good nearfalls, a strong tease of a title change, and good use of star power. (**3/4)

4 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. LITTLE EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Bourne blasted Sheamus with kick strikes. Bourne then went up top and nailed the Air Bourne splash 30 seconds in, but Sheamus kicked out at two. Crowd popped thinking they were seeing history. Bourne then went back up top for a splash, but Sheamus dropped him with a front slam. Sheamus followed with a clubbing blow to the skull and went on the attack as the crowd chanted Cena's name. Must not be football fans. Sheamus then set up Bourne for the Iron Cross Outsider's Edge drop and he connected for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 1:45. Well, at least Bourne got some quality TV time, a promo, and his finisher on live TV on a big night. Finish was expected, but it was a good way to use Bourne when Cena is at the Fiesta Bowl and they can "waste a week" on the WWE Title picture without a PPV to promote in the immediate future. (*)

5 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. RANDY ORTON

Kofi took it to Orton early on before dropkicking Orton through the ropes to the outside. Orton then kicked him away again and Orton stared at DiBiase and Rhodes, who stared at him to say, "Show us something." Orton stumbled on the floor before they cut to break.

Back from break, Orton was in control as the announcers talked up Hart-McMahon to come. Orton continued to work over Kofi while they cut to shots of DiBiase and Rhodes sitting ringside watching intently. The announcers sold not knowing whether they want Orton to be successful or not. Kofi then made a comeback, but they collided mid-air. Both men came to their feet after a pause and Kofi hit a top-rope splash for a two count center ring. Kofi then tried the Trouble in Paradise, but Orton blocked and immediately dropped Kofi with the RKO for the pin and the win. After the bell sounded, DiBiase and Rhodes no-sold the victory. They remained in their seats with blank looks on their faces. Orton left the ring and turned back to look at DiBiase and Cody, who eventually stood up and folded their arms.

WINNER: Orton at 11:02. Okay match. Just didn't move into a higher gear and Kofi seems to have lost some of his edge after peaking at MSG with the Boom Drop. The deal with DiBiase and Rhodes has potential for good follow-up next week, but this whole segment seemed to be "just there" this week. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 05 2010, 04:03 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 1-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37861.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- X DIVISION EIGHT-MAN BATTLE IN THE STEEL ASYLUM

Tenay called the X Division a "natural extension of the cruiserweights." He said it's more about a mindset than a weight division. I remember Jerry Jarrett trying to explain that to me back when TNA launched, and it's was vague then and vague now, but that's about as close as you can get to pegging it. Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley, Kiyoshi, Homicide, "Black Machismo" Jay Lethal, Consequences Creed, Suicide, and Amazing Red. Tenay said Mick Foley was denied access to the Impact Zone earlier. (Obviously an angle, just in case anyone is confused.) This match began nine minutes into the show. The crowd chanted, "Let's go, bitches! Let's go, bitches!" At least I think that's what they were chanting. Homicide used an extendible baton as a weapon, but then turned on Kiyoshi. The ref called for the bell. Bad start to have a lame DQ finish in the TV opener. The crowd chanted, "This is bullsh--! This is bullsh--!" Well, there's some feedback for TNA if they were looking for it. They had to silence the "sh--" part of the chant over and over. Clumsy and embarrassing. Homicide tried to climb out after hitting everyone else with his batton. The other wrestlers climbed after him. This turned into quite the clustermess.

WINNER: No contest in 4:00.

2 -- TARA vs. ODB -- TNA Knockouts Title

Tenay plugged that fans can ask questions by email and Twitter tonight at http://www.mycontent.com/tna (http://www.mycontent.com/tna). Tenay plugged there'd be more TNA Knockout action, plus again plugged Hogan's pending arrival. The crowd was decked out, by the way, in yellow Hulk Hogan shirts. Tenay plugged Dixie Carter's Twitter account. It diminished the value of the TNA Knockouts Title to have Tenay talking about anything but this match, not to mention it was another ridiculously short title match, with ODB winning at 2:00. You can't sell a title as important or its matches as an attraction worth paying for (or just staying tuned for) if the epitome of the champion and top challenge battle for two whole minutes and the announcers talk about everything but the match most of that two minutes. A lot of the same mistakes being made that seems smart at the time (we gotta plug what's next!!!), but with a long-term cost of deflating the value of the actual product they're ultimately trying to convince people is important enough to watch and buy. There was a small production glitch as they cut to a wide shot of the Asylum with an empty cage over the ring, presumably from before the X Division match started.

WINNER: ODB in 2:00 to capture the TNA Knockouts Title.

-Tara attacked ODB afterward, then took out her tarantula. She has to be so careful with it because if she drops it, it could easily die. Those types of spiders are extreme fragile.

3 -- TAYLOR WILDE & SARITA vs. AWESOME KONG & HAMADA -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Title match

A minute into the match they cut backstage where Jeremy Borash was picking up chairs lying over the fallen bodies of Sabin and Shelley. He said, "We've got a traitor here." After a dive to the floor and a pile of bodies, they cut to a break at 3:00. [c] They showed a clip from during the break of a near fall by Wilde on Kong, then Kong making a comeback. Hamada had Wilde on the defensive back live in the ring. Tenay said this is a night they will never forget. He listed all of the big names appearing on the show including Flair and Hardy. Taz said they might see more surprises. In the end, Hamada finished Sarita with a top rope dropkick as Sarita was suspended on Kong's shoulders. Taz said he thinks everyone is picking up their game with Hogan and Bischoff watching.

WINNERS: Kong & Hamada in 10:00 to capture the tag team titles. It's a shame they didn't have any time to promote the actual wrestling matches on this show ahead of time. Two title changes already. Too bad title changes were rendered much less important thanks to the late-'90s booking frenzy when titles and title changes were devalued. This is more of the same, actually.

4 -- RAVEN & DR. STEVIE (w/Daffney) vs. HERNANDEZ & MATT MORGAN

As the backdrop to the announcing began (known in previous decades as a "wrestling match"), Tenay said Ric Flair was seen walking into A.J. Styles's locker room earlier and he hasn't left. Wait! TNA has a World Champion? And his name is what? A.J. Styles? Good to know. Morgan finished Stevie with a Carbon Footprint in less than a minute.

WINNER: Morgan & Hernandez in 1:00.

5 -- DESMOND WOLFE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO EINERO

Taz said Hogan inspired a lot of wrestlers to get into pro wrestling. At 2:00 the crowd chanted loudly: "This is wrestling! This is wrestling!" They hadn't seen much of it yet, nearly two hours after the show began. Pope hit a corner swing elbow drop. Wolfe came right back with a Tower of London attempt. Pope escaped. They struggled for leverage, and Pope finished Wolfe with a small package.

WINNER: Pope in 3:00.

6 -- ABYSS vs. SAMOA JOE

Tenay said they had announced Abyss vs. Rhino, but Bischoff threw out the format sheet and instead booked the first-ever meeting between Abyss and Joe. Taz talked about the immense respect he has for Joe. Some high-impact fast-paced action in the opening minutes. It's strange, but pleasant, to see Abyss wrestling without weapons or special stips. Abyss got a near fall at 4:00 after a chokeslam. Abyss threw the ref aside at one point, so Joe seized the chance to hit Abyss with a chair across the side of his head and shoulder as Abyss reached out to grab him at ringside. Joe then applied his submission for the win.

WINNER: Joe in 5:00 via tapout.

7 -- A.J. STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE -- TNA World Hvt. Title Match

During ring intros, Taz said: "I'll tell you something right now straight up from a pure wrestling perspective, you will not find a wrestling contest at the level of what you are about to witness, nowhere on TV right now live as we speak. Trust me on that my friends." Tenay called it a PPV-quality main event. They locked up at 10:36 p.m., with lots of time to tell a story and have a classic. Styles flip dove onto Angle at ringside at 1:00. Taz said, "I told you! And this thing just started." A man in a black outfit and black mask attacked Styles from behind, knocking Styles into the ref. Angle knocked him out of the ring. Angle helped Styles to his feet and soon took control with a powerbomb into the corner turnbuckles. Tenay told viewers not to go anywhere as they'll be back with more action after this break. Mid-break, they showed Angle on offense and Tenay thanking Hogan and Bischoff for putting this classic on TV tonight.

Back live, the crowd chanted, "This is wrestling!" Tenay said, "You're damn right this is wrestling." At 8:00 Angle went into a series of unreleased back suplexes. Angle's turning more to the side on those, seemingly protecting his neck. Styles came back with a Pele kick, but Angle ducked it and applied the anklelock. Styles rolled him into a near fall. Styles then hit a Pele kick and scored another near fall.

Tenay said the lack of preparation time hasn't affected Styles or Angle. Styles hit a springboard flying forearm. Taz called him the best pure wrestling champion in the world today. Angle got up and threw Styles off the top rope for a near fall. Angle hit a frog splash for another two count a minute later at 12:00. Styles gave Angle a DDT as a countermove. That led to another two count. Taz said Angle had a dazed look in his eyes. "Who Needs Bret!" chanted the crowd. Wow. Was that prompted? No comment from Tenay or Taz. Angle went for an anklelock. Styles escaped. Angle hit another suplex for another two count. More near falls, one after another. Taz called it "an historic night." Angle applied a legbar. Ric Flair then walked out. Tenay said he wanted to watch the match in person. Taz said Flair spent along time in Styles's locker room earlier. Tenay said that they're staying with the World Title match until it's conclusion. He said, "No matter how long it takes, we're staying with it until we have a winner." Then they cut to a break. Kind of ironic to promise they'd stay with the match until it's over only to cut away immediately. But what they're saying is we might still be here after Raw ends, so check back in if you flip channels in the mean time.

More fast-paced action after the break. Styles hit the Styles Clash, but he was slow to make the cover. They showed Flair again on the stage. Styles moved to the ring apron and hit a springboard flip splash for the three count. They showed Carter giving the match a standing ovation.

WINNER: Styles in 22:00.

STAR RATING: ****
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 07 2010, 12:04 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 1-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37919.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. CHAVO GUERRERO -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

Chavo took it to Shelton early on, then Shelton fired back with right hand blows. Ref Armstrong kept getting involved, which gave Chavo an opening for two out of three Amigos suplexes, but Shelton countered numero tres with a German Suplex (with bridge) for a two count. Chavo then took out Shelton's left knee and went to work with various holds targeting the knee. Shelton made a comeback with a spin kick to the face as the camera took us pretty close inside the ring. Shelton with a nearfall, then Chavo took Shelton down with a Half-Crab submission hold. They broke free and came to their feet with Chavo hitting a big multiple-revolutions head scissors. It's 1999 and we're re-living the WCW Cruiserweight division here. Chavo then went up top for a Frog Splash, but Shelton came to his feet and ducked the finisher. Shelton immediately followed up with Pay Dirt for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Shelton in 5:00 to qualify for ECW Homecoming. Solid five-minute TV match. I don't know if it's because Chavo has been limited to comedy matches with Hornswoggle for six months, but Chavo looked great being able to work a regular match. (*1/2)

2 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/William Regal) vs. KOZLOV

The bell sounded and they went to a stand-still. Kozlov then knocked Jackson to the floor and Jackson regrouped with Regal's aid. Back in the ring, Jackson went after Kozlov's knee and continued to work over the body part. And he wrenched and wrenched on it trying to build sympathy for a Kozlov comeback. It's one of those things where the audience isn't buying into any of the action potentially leading to the finish because they've been trained to sit on their hands and wait for the finish. Kozlov then made a comeback and landed a clothesline. He shook out the knee, but Jackson mercifully put an end to this match with a uranage for the pin and the win. This here is domination, said the lyrics. Post-match, Regal pulled up Kozlov and told him he's a disgrace. Jackson shoved Kozlov down to the mat and sneered at the audience while Regal checked under his nails to ensure he didn't get any dirt. That was the most entertaining aspect of the entire segment.

WINNER: Jackson in 6:00. This wasn't interesting at all with zero character development, a lack of motivations explained for the wrestlers when wins and losses in non-title matches don't seem to have much value in WWE, and the audience being trained to sit on their hands and not buy into any the action taking place before the finish. (1/2*)

3 -- C.M. PUNK (w/Luke Gallows) vs. MARK HENRY -- ECW Homecoming qualifying match

Punk played heel early on by running to the corner to avoid Henry. Punk then tried to chop down the tree with kick strikes, but Henry lifted him up in the air to toss him over the top rope. Punk, flustered, circled around the ring huffing and puffing before Luke tried to calm him down going to break.

Back from break, Punk was knocked to the floor where Luke checked on him. Henry, frustrated, slowly approached Punk on the floor and Punk surprised him with a drop toehold into the ring steps. Punk tried to run into the ring for a count-out, but Henry rolled back into the ring and Punk quickly targeted his upper body with knee stomps. Punk then mounted Henry for right hand blows before Punk continued to keep Henry on the mat with a body scissors hold. Punk heelishly smiled and talked trash at Henry while keeping the hold locked in.

At the top of the hour, Punk kicked Henry in the head multiple times from a seated position before making a cover for a two count. Punk then landed a series of kick strikes to the chest, which Henry started to no-sell, but Punk cut him down to the mat with an emphatic kick strike for another two count. Punk then landed consecutive knee blows, but Henry no-sold. Henry then Hulked Up and headbutted Punk multiple times across the ring before landing a huge clothesline. Henry followed with a running corner splash before running clear across the ring for another splash, but Punk moved and hit a running knee strike. Luke then suddenly smashed Henry in the head from the apron behind the ref's back to stun Henry. Punk capitalized with a standing enziguiri kick to the head for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Punk in 12:00 to qualify for the ECW Homecoming. Fundamentally-sound, well-executed big man vs. dastardly heel match. It's not realistic in the context of a kayfabe fight for Punk to be taking it to Henry left and right, so he had to find ways to maneuver around Henry and use trickeration to win matches. They stretched out the formula well with Punk in control to set up Henry for a very strong comeback before ultimately pulling out the win. Solid finish to the show. (*3/4)

Post-match: They flash-carded individual graphics for Punk, Evan Bourne, Matt Hardy, "the undefeated" Vance Archer, Ezekiel Jackson, Yoshi Tatsu, Shelton Benjamin, and Kane to round out the field of eight in the #1 contender battle royal on next week's show. Winner faces Christian at the Rumble. They closed with a shot of Punk and Gallows celebrating the escapist victory ringside with Gallows rubbing Punk's shoulders to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 08 2010, 02:30 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 1-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37974.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JILLIAN vs. GAIL KIM - DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT FIRST-ROUND MATCH

Jillian has apparently lost her last name. She got some mic time before the match said she had a pretty good feeling about her chances tonight and started singing "I Got a Feeling" from the Black Eyed Peas. Kim worked a wrist-lock, but that didn't go anywhere. Jillian with a shoulder-tackle, but Kim tripped her up for a near-fall. Cross-body off the top by Kim for another two-count. Fan with an "NWO" shirt directly opposite the hard camera. I didn't know people still wore those. Jillian worked over Kim on the outside of the ring. Back in, she caught Kim with a sidewalk slam for two. Hard whip into the buckle followed that up. A small section of fans chanted for Gail. Jillian pulled Gail off the top rope and went for a pin, but Jillian's leg was under the bottom rope. Kim showed off her flexibility by taking out Jillian with a body-scissors and getting the pin thanks to good leverage.

WINNER: Kim, at 3:09. An OK match.

2 - TED DIBIASE vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Masters' new music sounds just as heelish as his last one. He was accompanied to the ring by his new on-screen fling, Eve Torres. DiBiase concentrated on the legs of Masters at the outset. Masters almost got the Masterlock locked on with both men on the mat, but DiBiase got to the ropes to break it. After DiBiase took a break on the outside, Masters almost turned a hammerlock into a Masterlock. These quick attempts seemed to unnerve DiBiase. DiBiase fought back with a clothesline and several right hands. Impressive dropkick from one-third of Legacy. Sounded like Jerry Lawler was making his case to be in the Royal Rumble match, saying, "what's a Royal Rumble without a King?" DiBiase began to wear Masters down. Belly-to-back suplex by DiBiase cut off Masters' attempt at a comeback, but Masters got it in full a few seconds later. Scoop slam, then Masters played to the crowd and set up for the Masterlock. Two attempts and Masters couldn't do it. After a counter by DiBiase, he leveled Masters with Dream Street for the win.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 5:54. A rather bland match: Nothing wrong with it per se, but ultimately forgettable.

3 - YOSHI TATSU vs. CAYLEN CROFT

This was billed as Croft's first singles match in WWE. Goldust was at ringside for Tatsu, and Trent Beretta was in Croft's corner. Couple arm-drags and a dropkick by Tatsu, but Croft suckered him in and threw him out of the ring, using the tights for leverage. They went to break about a minute into the match.

Croft was taking it to Tatsu out of break. Snap suplex garnered Croft a two-count. Croft worked a head-lock, and it looked nice and tight. Crowd wouldn't get into it to help Tatsu break the hold, so he had to do it himself. Yoshi fought back with chops and a rolling snap-mare out of the corner. To the top, Tatsu tried to get a hurricanrana on Croft, but Croft held on and Yoshi landed on his head. Cross-body off the top, but Yoshi rolled through for a near-fall. Neck-breaker by Croft for two. Yoshi finally hit the kick to the head of Croft for three.

WINNER: Tatsu, at 9:02. Good showing for Croft in his first singles match. They didn't ask him to do too much, but I did like the last few minutes.

4 - FINLAY vs. MIKE KNOX

A feeling-out process took place early in the contest. Finlay grabbed Knox's arm and tried to bend it, but the over-sized Knox got to the ropes. Pump kick by Knox sent Finlay to the arena floor. Also one of Sheamus' signature moves. Let's see how long it stays in Knox's arsenal. Both men traded blows on the outside until Knox powerslammed Finlay. Finlay made it back into the ring before the ten-count. Back-breaker by Knox after Finlay tried an open-hand punch. Finlay fought out of a rest-hold and Knox ran into a few boots. The Irishman came off the second rope, but Knox caught him in an impressive display of strength. Another miss from Knox, as he went shoulder-first into the ring-post. Finlay made his comeback and Rolling Thunder got two. Knox came out of a corner with a cross-body for a two-count. The big man took the middle turnbuckle pad off one of the corners. That's a new one. As the ref got rid of the pad from the ring, Finlay used the Shillelagh to the skull of Knox to pick up the victory. Grisham called it a dirty deed and without missing a beat, Striker added it was "done dirt cheap." I'm sure Vince approved.

WINNER: Finlay, at 6:46. Knox loses again. What else is new? I don't see why they don't put him over Finlay; he certainly has more upward mobility than Fit.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 10 2010, 12:48 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-8-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_37991.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – KANE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

This is a re-match from last week’s Beat-The-Clock challenge. Hard right hand from Kane after he picked Ziggler up off the mat. Striker tried to get across the idea that Ziggler may be a loose cannon. Hey, give him the old Brian Pillman gimmick. Low dropkick by Kane for a two-count. Ziggler came off the second rope with a dropkick for only one. He got a DDT on Kane with Kane on one knee. Still only got a one-count. Lots of quick, unsuccessful pin attempts. Sleeper by Ziggler, which didn’t really go anywhere. Kane made a comeback with a corner clothesline and a big boot. Only a two-count though. Sidewalk slam for only two. Top rope clothesline by the seven-footer. Ziggler avoided Kane’s chokeslam and landed the Zig-Zag, but Kane was able to kick out. He went for a sleeper again and got Kane off his feet. The Big Red Monster got back to a vertical base and Kane stumbled through the middle rope and to the outside, with Ziggler holding on the entire time. As referee John Cone’s count reached eight, Ziggler let go and scampered into the ring. Kane couldn’t make it back in before the ten.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 6:20. I feel like there’s been a lot of count-out decisions lately. Even so, good win for Ziggler that makes him look relatively smart.

2 – R-TRUTH & CRYME TYME vs. THE HART DYNASTY & CHRIS JERICHO

The first minute or two of the match consisted of quick tags and high-energy offense from the babyfaces. Pump kick by R-Truth on Jericho as he maintained control over the self-professed face of Smackdown. Another kick sent Jericho to the outside as they went to break 2:45 into the match.

The show returned with Jericho in peril once again. David Hart Smith low-bridged Shad on an attempt to run the ropes, and Nattie got in a cheap shot on the outside. Another heat segment started up with Shad Gaspard being worked over by the heels. At the 9:30 mark, Shad made the hot tag to JTG as Striker spazzed out on commentary. R-Truth dispatched Kidd from the ring and Shad booted him out for good measure. Jericho sent Gaspard to the outside and JTG rolled him up for a near-fall. JTG went off the top but got caught by Jericho and put into the Walls of Jericho – the REAL version of the move, not the wussy Boston Crab it has turned into. And hey, Jericho picked up the win with it!

WINNERS: Jericho and the Harts, at 10:41. Good work from all six men. Felt different than the numerous other Hart Dynasty vs. Cryme Tyme matches that I’ve had to sit through.

3 – LUKE GALLOWS vs. MATT HARDY

This is Gallows’ first singles match. The two men went back and forth, with Hardy failing to suplex Gallows, and Gallows dropping Hardy stomach-first over the top rope and gave him a punch to send him to the outside. After sending Matt into the ring, Gallows landed a back suplex for two. Sunset flip by Matt, but he couldn’t even get a one count. Gallows mounted Matt and punished him with rights. The former Festus missed a splash in the corner and Hardy capitalized with a moonsault off the top rope. That got him a two-count. Tornado DDT by Hardy for another two. Hardy to the second rope, but Punk provided a distraction and Gallows downed him with a big boot. That led to the Gallows’ Pole (or, the 12th step) for the pin.

WINNER: Gallows, at 5:46.

4 – BETH PHOENIX vs. LAYLA

Layla looked a bit hesitant coming to the ring, but Michelle McCool accompanied her down and tried to instill some confidence in her. Beth shoulder tackled her, then gave her a version of an airplane spin. Beth pointed at McCool at ringside. Layla, on the outside, was thrown back into the ring by McCool. Layla went after the knees of Beth and then kicked her in the head. A few more kicks, then she jumped on Beth’s back. Phoenix flipped her to the mat, stood Layla up and gave her the Glam Slam. Fin.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 1:44. Interesting four-person feud here; better than the usual storylines we get from the Divas.

5 – REY MYSTERIO vs. BATISTA – WINNER WILL FACE UNDERTAKER FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHP AT THE ROYAL RUMBLE

Mysterio used his quickness out of the gate, but Batista caught him and slammed him back-first into the turnbuckle. Back-breaker by the Animal, as he taunted Rey. Rey got his feet up in the corner on a charge and he tried to springboard hurricanrana the big man, but Batista wouldn’t let him. Rey did manage to set Batista up for a 619, but Batista escaped to the outside. As Rey followed him, Batista managed to send him back-first into the ring post as they went to break.

Rey was seated on the top rope and he fought away from Batista. Frogsplash off the top by Rey, but he came up lame afterward as well. Grisham said Batista raised his shoulder, catching Rey’s ribs and perhaps knocking the wind out of him. Batista caught Rey on another springboard attempt and planted him on the mat. And another. Batista speared Mysterio, then flexed before doing his Warrior routine. As he set up for a Batista Bomb, the lights went out and the gongs went off. When they came back on, both Mysterio and Batista were down in the ring. Batista was holding his head. Mysterio got to his feet and pummeled Batista in the noggin. Wheelbarrow into a bulldog by Rey Rey. Batista, however picked up Rey, but Rey DDT’d him. Striker noted that Batista had “those Johnny Walker eyes.” Mysterio connected on the 619, but again the lights went out and the gong played. This time, Mysterio and Batista were both again down. Crowd booed this time. The lights went out a third time and this time, Taker’s full entrance played. However, he never came out….and the show ended?

WINNER: No Contest, at 10:45. Not only did they not announce the winner, a pet peeve of mine, they went off the air with the match not officially ending. I predicted a Triple-Threat match at Royal Rumble on the Pro Wrestling Torch Livecast yesterday, and it looks like that’s where they’re headed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 13 2010, 02:10 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38039.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY vs. ALICIA FOX -- First Round Divas Title tournament match

Kelly held control initially, working over Alicia's neck. She then tried to win with her usual head scissors-like maneuver, but Alicia countered with a powerbomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Alicia Fox at 2:25. The match happened, but it was typically short. Now Alicia, Maryse, and Gail Kim have advanced. Need a second babyface to complete the four semi-finalists.

2 -- LEGACY (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE, JR.) vs. MARK HENRY & EVAN BOURNE

Legacy isolated Bourne early on as the announcers speculated whether the Rumble will drive a stake through Legacy. Cody then busted out a beautiful dropkick on Bourne before slowly taking him apart. Bourne eventually made the hot tag to Henry at 3:15, leading to Henry cleaning house. Henry then tagged in Bourne for the Air Bourne on Cody, but DiBiase yanked Cody out of harm's way. DiBiase followed by suckering Henry into a dive over the top rope. Bourne then smashed Rhodes with a knee strike, but Cody caught Bourne from behind with Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Legacy at 4:15. Summary of this is that Legacy teased tension yet again, Bourne was a ragdoll, and if WWE wants to utilize Henry and Bourne, there is potential for a nice tag team here. Something about this power & size combo would work if Henry can soften up an opponent, then Bourne can hit his Air Bourne finisher. (*)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. SANTINO MARELLA -- Over-the-top-rope challenge

Swagger rammed Santino across the turnbuckles before hitting his running Vader Bomb. Swagger then tried to run Santino over the top rope, but Santino pulled a trick out of the bag ducking down to eliminate Swagger over the top rope. Swagger sold anger ringside post-match, then he tried to chase Santino, who bolted up the entranceramp to the back.

WINNER: Santino at 0:52. Pretty darn pointless. The carnival wrestler is supposed to win the first few, but look vulnerable, to get the marks in the crowd to think they have a shot. Swagger wasn't supposed to lose the first challenge. The highlight of Swagger's night was cutting off Michael Cole. (n/a)

4 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. JOHN CENA -- #1 contender match

The bell sounded and Orton kicked Cena in the gut. Kofi and Cena then double-teamed Orton and some awkward in-ring wrestling occurred. Orton tried to bail, but Cena threw Orton into the ring. Worth noting Orton is the heel here, but he's getting double-teamed. Kofi then chucked Orton to the floor, leaving Cena and Kofi alone in the ring. Sheamus then came out on stage for a closer look. Cena told Sheamus to come on down, but then Orton caught both Cena and Kofi from behind to take control going to break. Poor first three minutes to start the match.

Back from break, Sheamus was still on the entranceramp and Orton was still in control. Orton then dropped Cena with his "vicious" horizontal DDT from the middle rope. Orton got up, but walked into a high cross-body splash from Kofi, who scored a two count. Orton came back with a fallaway backbreaker on Kofi, but Cena attacked Orton. Kofi then hit the SOS sweeping back drop on Orton for a two count. Kofi warmed up the Boom Drop on Orton, but Cena caught him with the STF in center ring. Kofi held on forever before Orton finally broke up the hold. Cena then fired up his usual routine on Orton before delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted to follow with the FU, but Kofi yanked Orton down and chopped Cena across the chest. Kofi followed with a dropkick and leaping clothesline before hitting the Boom Drop. Crowd seemed to die as Kofi took control here. Kofi then hit the Trouble in Paradise, but Cena rolled to the outside.

Kofi turned to Orton for ten punches in the corner, while, suddenly, Cody Rhodes showed up ringside to kick the ring steps into Cena. The ref reprimanded Cody while Kofi and Orton waited forever for DiBiase to show up and interfere on Orton's behalf behind the ref's back. Orton then stalked Kofi, who was on his feet at this point, and hit the RKO center ring. Orton sold frustration with the finish, then made the cover for the win. Post-match: Sheamus glared back at Orton, who stood tall in the ring with Legacy. Sheamus vs. Orton at the Rumble.

WINNER: Orton at 11:15. Clunky, disappointing match. Kofi was off, Kofi and Cena working together in the beginning was off, DiBiase was slow with the final interference, and the finish was off. Orton vs. Sheamus is an all right match-up. (3/4*)

5 -- EVE vs. KATIE LEA BURCHILL -- First Round Divas Title tournament match

Eve made a comeback at 1:25 after Katie held the early advantage. Katie became frustrated when she couldn't put Eve away, then Eve rolled her up for the pin and the win. There's your second babyface in the next round of the tournament. Post-match: Maryse threw down her headset and did a hand-motion telling Eve to get out of her immediate vantage point. Such great charisma.

WINNER: Eve at 1:52. Just there and expectedly short. The brackets were shown on the screen showing Maryse vs. Eve and Gail vs. Alicia in the semi-finals.

6 -- Unified tag champions DX (TRIPLE H & SHAWN MICHAELS) vs. MIKE TYSON & CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match

Michaels and Tyson were in the ring to start. There should be a sense of anticipation in the arena, but there isn't just yet. Tyson took control early on by shoving Michaels down three times in a row. Michaels tried to surprise charge Tyson, but Tyson answered with a shoulder tackle. Hunter then entered the ring to stare down Tyson and try to intimidate him. They locked up and battled to the corner where things got intense with Tyson shoving Hunter after Hunter tried to shove him. Jericho then tagged in and DX worked him over. Michaels tried to roll up Jericho from behind, but Jericho kicked out and smashed Michaels. Jericho then tagged in Tyson and told him to KO Michaels. Suddenly, Hornswoggle's music hit and Horny danced to the ring in a green boxing outfit. Tyson laughed and tagged in Jericho.

All five men were in the ring together with Tyson standing behind Jericho. Tyson then took off his black t-shirt to reveal a DX t-shirt. Jericho heard the crowd roar, then he slowly turned around to see Tyson sporting the DX shirt. Jericho begged off, then Tyson landed a right hand blow. Jericho ducked too soon and Tyson grazed his chin. Multiple replays were shown, but they were all from angles not to reveal how much light there was between punch and chin. Michaels then covered Jericho for the win. Post-match: Tyson and DX celebrated in the ring. Hunter scooped up Tyson's son from ringside and he celebrated with Tyson. DX, Hornswoggle, and the Tysons then closed the show with the DX crotch chops and poses to close the show.

WINNERS: DX at 4:40. A "feel good moment" that captured everything that is wrong with WWE's top show in terms of being captivating episodic TV. There are no hot angles (which is why WWE is depending on 12 years ago for material). This was unbelievably predictable. There was no anticipation for next week at the end of the show. DX as a unit is the centerpiece of the show, but not involved in an actual feud. The guest hosts are involved in each week's self-contained storylines, but the hosts disappear next week after having a "feel good moment." WWE is left starting over the following week with a new guest host incorporated into storylines. It captures why there was no anticipation for this match at the beginning of the main event because WWE is now just presenting safe, basic TV fit for house shows and not for TV main events trying to compel viewers to tune in. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 14 2010, 10:53 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 1-12-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38076.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE HURRICANE vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes)

Suddenly, back from break, there was a match in the ring with Hurricane against Ryder. Looked like that would be end of it for this week pre-commercial. Josh Mathews said ECW GM Tiffany booked a match between the two during the break. Anyways, Ryder was in control working over Hurricane as the announcers provided motive for this: Hurricane wants to rid ECW of the self-centered Ryder. Ryder hit the Rough Ryder leg lariat at 3:00, but Hurricane kicked out. Ryder finally got some heat arrogantly flashing the LI to the crowd, then he went back to work on Hurricane.

The crowd eventually came to life as Hurricane teased a comeback before hitting a neckbreaker. Hurricane then hit a Hurri-Cut out of the corner before going up top, but Ryder cut him off with Rosa slapping the mat repeatedly to offer encouragement. Ryder then followed with the Zack Attack on Hurricane for the pin and the win. Afterward, Ryder and Rosa celebrated while Hurricane gritted his teeth in frustration.

WINNER: Ryder in 6:00. Okay match. Ryder dominated and picked up the win, which was a double whammy for Hurricane. WWE didn't even give Hurricane the benefit of Even-Steven booking where Ryder snuck out a win by the skin of his teeth. He was booked to pretty much dominate other than two or three signature moves from Hurricane. (*)

2 -- GOLDUST vs. TRENT BARRETA (w/Caylen Croft)

Goldust was sporting some scary-looking black facepaint beyond his usual facepaint look. I'm having really bad flashbacks to TNA storylines with Rellik. Goldust started with an aggressive attack and dominated Barreta before taking him over the top rope to the floor. Barreta then suckered Goldust into a neck drop across the top rope to take control. Barreta followed with a running clothesline on the floor after a high-pitched tribal scream. Apparently his trademark is screaming like a girl. Back in the ring, Barreta took control on "the maverick, the non-conformist Goldust," according to Mathews. Goldust then made a comeback and wanted the Curtain Call, but Barreta slipped out and ran to the corner. Barreta followed with a big elbow smash out of the corner before hitting a running knee to the face with another high-pitched scream for the pin and the win. I can almost picture John Cena making fun of this guy on a regular basis six months from now.

WINNER: Barreta in 6:00. Another just okay match. The crowd is dead or at least sounds dead, so it's difficult to gauge how well the wrestlers connected with the crowd. Barreta has potential, but that high-pitched scream needs some work if that's going to be his trademark. Meanwhile, Goldust continues to be under-utilized unless this is a start of a program similar to Goldust vs. Sheamus that was one of the better ECW programs in 2009. (*)

3 -- ECW HOMECOMING BATTLE ROYAL

The bell sounded ten minutes before the top of the hour and everyone fed Kane, who was presented as the monster and favorite. And there went Bourne over the top rope 15 seconds in the match. That explains why they didn't want to focus on Bourne at all on this show so no one watching would notice the early elimination or be disappointed. Down to seven, the men in the ring began teasing eliminations in standard battle royal form. To fill time, Christian berated the announcers for not asking his prepared questions. Christian said he came to ECW with a chip on his shoulder to prove he's the very best. Yoshi and Punk worked in the corner for a bit and the audience came to life as Punk teased eliminating Yoshi, then Yoshi teased eliminating Punk. But, everyone was safe (except for Bourne) going to break.

Back from break, everyone was safe (except for Bourne). Punk was again teased for an elimination, then Archer ended up on the apron to be eliminated by Shelton, who also eliminated himself with a cross-body splash taking both of them out. Afterward, their brawl continued on the floor as the action continued in the ring with five men left. Christian said he feels Yoshi is the biggest threat to his spot right now, but he's not going to roll over and hand it to him.

Jackson caught Hardy over the top rope and tried to eliminate him, but Hardy held onto the top rope before Jackson smashed him off the ropes to the floor. So, we're down to Zeke, Yoshi, Punk, and Kane. They had a four-way stare down before Punk smashed Kane with a high knee, only to eat a clothesline from Jackson. Zeke then chucked Punk clear over the top rope for a big pop. Suddenly, Kane chucked Yoshi over the top rope out of the corner. And now we're down to Kane and Jackson. Kane turned his shoulder to smirk in Jackson's direction anticipating a big man match-up. Christian said it's safe to say it won't be an easy night come the Rumble.

Jackson screamed and shouted in Kane's direction, saying, "You got nothing!" They locked up and battled near the ropes with the fans chanting for Kane. Jackson teased a bodyslam elimination, but Kane held onto the top rope to block before landing an uppercut. Kane then repeated the spot of teasing an elimination of Zeke, but Zeke fought off. Kane then tried the chokeslam, but Jackson elbowed out. Kane then followed with a big boot that popped the crowd. Kane tried to follow with a top rope move and he missed with the clothesline. Jackson then clotheslined Kane over the top rope to the floor, which drew shrieks from the crowd, and there is your winner and new #1 contender.

Post-match: Jackson screamed in victory while Christian dropped his headset and stared up at Jackson from the announce table. And old friend, William Regal, entered the ring and patted Jackson on the shoulder before staring down at Christian. After the announcers recapped a video package on the highlights from the match, the show closed with Jackson & Regal staring at Christian, who held up his ECW Title while selling a bit of concern.

WINNER: Jackson in 15:00 to become #1 contender. Good, formula battle royal. WWE virtually gave away the finish on the house shows this weekend when Christian and Jackson worked three straight shows to warm up for their Royal Rumble one-on-one match, but this was good drama, especially with the final four. It was nice to see Yoshi get some strong focus despite losing the match. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2010, 09:47 am
WWE Superstars Results: 1-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38125.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- PRIMO & GAIL KIM vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & JILLIAN HALL

Chavo was the aggressor early on and worked over Primo in the heel corner before Gail and Jillian tagged in for their respective teams. Jillian took control and worked over Gail before bringing in Chavo, which forced Primo to enter. Chavo wanted the Three Amigos suplexes, but Primo blocked a third one. Chavo took control anyways, and Gail broke up a pin attempt. Chavo then cornered Gail and feigned going after her, which allowed Primo to sneak up behind Chavo to roll him up for a pin following a dropkick to the jaw from Gail. Well, look at that, Primo and Gail in the win column. They celebrated the victory post-match before the show went to break.

WINNERS: Primo & Gail in 5:00. Fine warm-up match getting some stars on TV and putting the likeable babyface Gail in peril before Primo scored the pin to start the show on a feel-good note. (*)

2 -- CHRIS MASTERS (w/Eve) vs. CARLITO

The bell sounded and Masters cold-cocked Carlito with a right hand. That should have been the end of the match, but the match continued with Carlito regaining control on the floor after suckering Masters into his trap. Cole and Lawler sounded like announcers at a Mr. Universe bodybuilding contest quietly talking about Masters's assets as he made a babyface comeback. Carlito then surprised Masters with a dropkick to the back before flashing a cocky smile. He then charged Masters, but Masters moved and Carlito ate the corner turnbuckles. Masters then telegraphed and applied the Masterlock center ring, which drew a submission after ten seconds. Cue up the MasterEve celebration.

WINNER: Masters in 3:00. It was there, then over. The take-away point for Carlito was creating a memorable impression for viewers with some good facial expressions throughout the match. In a WWE environment where wins and losses don't really mean much in these types of matches, it's about standing out and creating a lasting impression. Carlito won in that regard. (n/a)

3 -- MIKE KNOX & CHARLIE HAAS vs. SLAM MASTER J & JIMMY WANG YANG

In a battle of teams and wrestlers that simply do not win matches, Team J started off with control until Knox ran over SMJ with a brick wall-like splash. Knox then brought in Haas, who stretched SMJ's body. Knox re-entered and pounded on SMJ. Haas re-entered and stretched SMJ, who finally teased that hot tag to Yang and connected after ducking underneath Haas. Yang went wild on the heels before scoring a one count on Haas when Knox broke up a pin attempt. SMJ then cleared Knox to the outside before nailing a plancha on the floor. Back in the ring, Yang caught Haas in the corner and came off the top with a moonsault that grazed Haas on the shoulder to score the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Yang & SMJ in 4:00. And Knox still can't pick up a win. Knox and Haas make a nice little tag team based on this match with some nice, fast-paced, in-and-out tag team action working over SMJ. It was good to see Yang and SMJ in the win column for once, although WWE needs to be building up some strong heel tandems they can feed to DX for a one-off match. (*1/4)

4 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- non-title match

The announcers sold this as a "learning opportunity" for Jackson before his title shot against Christian at the Royal Rumble. The learning opportunity quickly ended when Jackson was booted from ringside when the ref spotted him attempting outside interference. Regal sold concern as they cut to break.

Back from break, Regal and Christian exchanged control before Regal knocked Christian off the ring apron and Christian ate the mat neck-first. They slow-motion replayed Christian eating the mat neck-first, which was slightly uncomfortable considering head/neck issues in pro wrestling. Back in the ring, Regal aggressively went after Christian before Christian blocked a corner attack and hit a leaping cross-body splash for a two count. Christian followed with a top rope missile dropkick for another two count. Christian then went up top again and missed with a diving headbutt (ugh landing on the neck). Regal then landed forearms to the back of the head before measuring Christian for a running knee smash, but Christian ducked and caught Regal with a kick to the gut. Regal tried to come back with a sunset flip with rope leverage, but the ref saw it and stopped his three count.

In the confusion, Christian to hit the Killswitch, but Regal slipped out and applied the Regal Stretch. Christian escaped, but Regal smashed him with a forearm to the face. Regal tried to follow with a double underhook suplex, but Christian blocked, ducked underneath Regal, and hit the Killswitch for the pin and the win. Well done. Post-match: Christian stood tall with possession of the ECW Title. After replays of the high points in the match, they closed the show with Christian holding up the ECW Title center ring.

WINNER: Christian in 13:00. Solid TV main event with a very strong final three minutes of counters, reversals, and high-impact moves. Christian and Regal have great chemistry being able to go full-speed without holding back in the ring. Nice match worth catching on the DVR. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2010, 09:59 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38126.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN vs. GENERATION ME

Some guy, “Max”, does a bit of decent chain wrestling with Sabin. Shelley tags in just long enough to work a quick double team. “Jeremy” tries to interfere, but gets caught with stereo kicks to the head. Shelley tags in and works a headlock on Max, till he powers out. We go to a split-screen shot of the nWo walking around. Like with the cutaways to Flair last week, I'm not digging the symbolism. Max suddenly elevates Shelley over the ropes with a back body drop, then flips over Sabin for some type of Moonsault-style float over Neck Breaker—who is this guy? Jeremy tags in and keeps Shelley from reentering, catches Sabin with an Inverted Atomic Drop, then slides out the apron and hits a Moonsault on Shelley in one fast motion. He comes in with a Slingshot X Factor onto Sabin for a long two count. I thought they had it. Sabin fights out of the corner with a boot and an Ensuguri, but when he goes for a Bulldog on Jeremy Max Superkicks his head off. Sabin fights his way back with a couple of arm wrenches and tags in Shelley. Shelley enters with a side kick off the top rope, but he misses with a German Suplex attempt and gets whacked by a Spear. Generation Me hit a simultaneous Frog Splash/Standing Moonsault; Sabin breaks up the cover at two, then gets tossed from the ring. Shelley flights out of the corner with a Flat Liner to Max into the middle turnbucke, and Sabin comes in with a Cross Body Block onto Jeremy. The Guns work a double team for a two count, broken up by Jeremy, who again tosses Sabin from the ring. Shelley goes for Sliced Bread #2, but Max shoves him into a Superkick from a returning Jeremy. They Oklahoma Roll Shelley into the corner, then hit him with a 450 Splash and a Moonsault off the top rope in rapid succession—and that's all she wrote.

WINNERS: Generation Me. I'm all for upsets, but did it have to be on the back of the Guns?

(2)MADISON RAYNE & VELVET SKY vs. HAMADA & AWESOME KONG
Non-title match

Hamada locks up with Velvet Sky to start. The ref breaks it up, and Velvet Sky takes advantage, yanking Hamada down by the hair. She stands her up and Bulldogs her back down for two. She tags in Rayne, who connects with some shoulder thrusts in the corner. Sky tags back in. They look for a double team Russian Leg Sweep, but take a second to taunt Kong first. That gives Hamada the chance to slip out and make the tag. This won't go well for the Beautiful People. Kong stacks them up in the corner, splashes them, and then kills Rayne with an Awesome Bomb.

WINNERS: Awesome Kong and Hamada in two minutes. After the match everyone goes to check on Rayne, including Angelina Love.

The crowd's glad to see Love...and maybe I called this one right, cause she just kicked down Von Erich and Speared Sky out of her boots. Love zeroes in on Sky, following her out and whipping her into the guard rail. On her way backstage she comments about what a bad idea it was to try to replace her.

(3)TEAM 3D vs. LETHAL CONSEQUENCES

Ray and Devon hit the 3D on Creed, then make the cover.

WINNERS: Team 3D in about five seconds.

(4)MATT MORGAN & HERNANDEZ vs. BEER MONEY INC.
Storm sidesteps a charging Hernandez to start. Hernandez lifts Storm out to the apron, but Storm kicks him and comes back with a Neck Breaker from the top rope. Roode tags in and they hit the Beer Money Suplex, but don't notice that Hernandez has made the tag to Morgan. Morgan squishes Roode in the corner and hits a side slam for two. Roode gets up firing and tags in Storm. They try for a double clothesline; Hernnadez blind tags himself in, but Morgan stops himself and goes for a double Choke Slam anyway. It's reversed by kicks to the gut, but Hernadnez comes in with a slingshot shoulder block. They roll out of the ring, and Super Mex flies out after them. While Hernandez is out there, Rob Terry attacks, and the ref throws the match out.

WINNERS: N/A.

(5)DESMOND WOLFE vs. SAMOA JOE

Joe powers Wolfe into the corner and unloads with a messing load of jabs. Joe whips him into the opposite corner and follows him with a running elbow and a jumpkick. Wolfe gets out swinging, but gets caught with a snap power slam. Joe looks for the Kokido Clutch, but Wolfe backs him into the corner. Wolfe goes for his running back elbow, but Joe catches him with a Ura-Nage. Wolfe charges into another one, but this time he reverses it into an arm drag and follows up with his hammerlock takedown. The running elbow connects on try number two. Joe shoves Wolfe away from the corner and climbs to the top rope. Wolfe knocks his legs out from under him and looks for the Tower of London, but Joe locks in the Kokido Clutch from the top rope. While in the hold, Wolfe is still able to connect with the Tower of London, which is enough for the kill.

WINNER: Desmonde Wolfe in 3 minutes. I think the right man won, but they totally failed to make this seem like a big deal, both because of how the match was presented and how much time it got.

(6)AJ STYLES vs. TOMKO
World Heavyweight Championship Match

We start to get the full main-event intro, but Styles jumps the bell and attacks Tomko. Tomko tries to fire back, but AJ ducks and takes out his leg. Tomko rolls out of the ring, but AJ stays on him. He starts whacking Tomko's left arm into the steps, the ring post, and the barricade. He rolls Tomko into the ring as Angle appears in the entrance-way AJ kicks Tomko in the face, but is distracted a bit by Kurt and gets flung from the ring. Kurt goes up to shake Flair's hand as Tomko brings AJ back into the ring for a running power slam for two. Tomko hits some punches and chops on AJ in the corner. AJ starts firing back, but runs right into a big boot for two.

We come back just in time for a snap power slam from Tomko for a surprisingly long two count. Tomko chokes AJ twice, breaking at four both times. He then uses a leg choke, again working the full five count. Tomko appears to be bleeding from his mouth. AJ fights from his knees, but Tomko hoists him up for a slam. AJ slips out, hits a standing Ensuguri, then connects with the Pele for the win. That was a bit anti-climactic.

WINNER: AJ Styles in eight minutes.

After the match Tomko goes on the attack, but Kurt Angle runs down to make the save. He tosses Tomko from the ring, then extends his hand to AJ. AJ mysteriously walks away. Flair watches on with a slight smile.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 21 2010, 12:36 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-18-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38232.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

The bell sounded and #1 contender Randy Orton slowly walked out on stage to get a close look at the action. Evan Bourne has qualified for the Rumble, of note. Who knows how. Orton made his way to ringside and Sheamus stopped to glare at him. Meanwhile, Bourne smashed him in the back of the knee with a kick strike before landing a leaping kick strike. He followed with a double knee smash off the top rope for a two count. Sheamus then hit a backbreaker to cut off Bourne's momentum before hitting a bicycle kick. Sheamus then put Bourne up in the air for his Outsider's Edge finisher and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:05. I don't agree with throwing the champion in a segment without any hype and where he loses credibility points for nearly being pinned by someone who never wins matches on TV, even with Orton's distraction. WWE needs to build up Sheamus right now, not put him in a position to look vulnerable every week. (n/a)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. MARK HENRY -- Over-the-top-rope challenge

Swagger ducked under a clothesline and hit a forearm, but Henry proceeded to lift up Swagger in the air and press-slam Swagger over the top rope to the floor. And Henry wins. Swagger threw a fit ringside while Henry celebrated the easy victory.

WINNER: Henry at 0:31. Unexplainable. (n/a)

3 -- JOHN CENA & KOFI KINGSTON vs. LEGACY (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE)

Legacy isolated Cena early in the match and cut off a brief comeback, but Kofi eventually got the hot tag at 2:45 to do his routine on DiBiase. Kofi hit the Boom Drop, then teased Trouble in Paradise, but DiBiase moved away to a neutral corner. Cody then caused confusion in the corner allowing DiBiase to land a smashing clothesline to cut off Kofi. Legacy took control going to break.

Back to the tag match where Cena urged Kofi to make the tag while Legacy kept working Kofi over. DiBiase missed with a clothesline on Kofi in the corner, then Cody just ran across the ring and knocked Cena off the ring apron to keep Legacy on the advantage. Kofi back-dropped out of a suplex attempt, then Cena begged for a tag and took the tag with the crowd exploding for Cena's full comeback routine. Cena called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Cody and delivered center ring. Cody then countered the FU with a Russian Legsweep for a two count. Cena then blocked a bulldog and hit the FU on Cody, but DiBiase broke up the pin. The action broke down and Kofi took a blind-tag with Kofi coming off the top with a high cross-body splash on Cody after DiBiase ducked. Kofi made the cover on Cody for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cena & Kofi at 10:55. Good formula TV tag match with high energy and some good work from Legacy extending the iso on Kofi and the teased finishes before Kofi won the match. More tension between Cody and Ted will probably be played up, yet again, in the weeks to come. Overall, it was good to see Kofi get a win and Legacy standing alone without Orton. (**1/4)

4 -- MARYSE & ALICIA FOX vs. GAIL KIM & EVE

Maryse took control early on and knocked Gail to the outside so she could do her pose. Maryse continued to work over Gail before Eve took a hot tag at 2:00. The action broke down with Alicia tagging in and all four women involved in the finish, which was Eve scoring a pin on Alicia for the win.

WINNERS: Eve & Gail at 2:50. Your standard three-minute divas match extending the Divas Title situation another week. Just fine. (n/a)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS MASTERS (w/Eve)

The bell sounded and Sheamus's music hit to bring out the WWE champion for a closer look. Formula, but good stuff with Orton and Sheamus here. Masters and Orton locked up center ring and Masters landed a hard shoulder block. The crowd hasn't heard Masters turned babyface. Masters tried the Masterlock, but Orton flung him away, only to take a powerslam for a two count. They showed Sheamus staring intently into the ring as Orton came back with a fallaway backbreaker. Orton then got down on the mat to set up the RKO, but Masters countered into the Masterlock. Orton tried to escape by grabbing the ropes and he started to fade, which drew Masters into a trap for Orton to grab the ropes for a break. Masters then approached Orton for follow-up offense, but Orton dropped him with the RKO out of nowhere. Orton made the pin for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 2:50. Really intriguing segment here. There was a babyface that Knoxville hadn't heard turned babyface, a long-standing heel playing for sympathy, and the WWE champion. It was just different and in a good way. The post-match put good heat on Sheamus with WWE subtly making Orton the default babyface for the Rumble. WWE gets a B+ for developing the Orton-Sheamus program for the Rumble on this week's show. (*)

6 -- Unified tag champions DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) & HORNSWOGGLE (w/Don Johnson) vs. THE BIG SHOW & U.S. champion THE MIZ & JON HEDER

The match was joined in progress with "vintage Shawn Michaels" as Michaels and Miz worked against each other. Miz hit a neckbreaker early while Heder was shown still standing on the apron in his Ric Flair robe. Show then tagged in and worked over Michaels before executing a sidewalk slam focused on the back.

They hit the top of the hour with Cole resetting the show and focusing on the guest hosts tonight. Miz tagged back in and Michaels ripped off a round of chops. They followed with a double knock-down and Michaels crawled to his corner to tag in Hornswoggle? Horny dropkicked Miz, but then Miz smashed him with a clothesline from his knees. Heder wanted a tag, which brought in Heder, who removed his robe to reveal an old-school 1940s wrestler body. Heder proceeded to kick Hornswoggle in the gut, but Horny bit him and tagged in Hunter. Heder then ran out of the ring, but Johnson tossed him back in. Show tried to get involved, but Michaels superkicked him and Show fell on top of Heder. Michaels then superkicked Miz off the apron. Horny followed with a tadpole splash on Show and Heder and Hornswoggle pinned Heder for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: DX & Hornswoggle at 4:35. Predictable finish with DX standing tall in the main event yet again. It's Wile E. Coyote vs. the Roadrunner every week on Raw. Heder at least played a good ham tonight and went along with the bit. DX will argue Miz got a rub from being in the main event with them, but Miz was a virtual after-thought in the main event. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 21 2010, 12:38 pm
ECW on SyFy Results: 1-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38267.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU & GOLDUST vs. TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT

B&C doubled up on Yoshi early on with Goldust sitting on the sidelines for a while. The new tandem tagged in and out working over Yoshi, who teased a Ricky Steamboat comeback at 6:00, but Barreta cut him off, only to have Yoshi smash him in the face with a spinkick. The crowd rallied behind Yoshi leading to Goldust taking a hot tag and fired up the crowd before nailing a powerslam on Croft for a two count. Barreta then dumped Yoshi to the outside, but they had a TNA ref moment with the ref distracted for no reason allowing Barreta to hit a double-team move allowing Croft to pin Goldust for the win.

WINNERS: Barreta & Croft in 7:00. Fine tag match with B&C continuing to develop their heel personas. They have a little something working right now. (*1/4)

2 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN vs. WILLIAM REGAL (w/Ezekiel Jackson) -- non-title match

Regal and Christian locked up and drove each other to the corner as Jackson watched intently. Mathews talked about Regal and Jackson going back to the film room to break down tape on Christian for the Rumble after this match. Put that on TV! Regal engaged Christian in chain wrestling that Christian ended with a palm thrust to the face and a high back-body drop. Regal then rolled to the outside for a breather and Christian warmed up the crowd for a running baseball slide kick through the ropes to knock Regal into the guardrail. Christian then threw Regal back into the ring as Jackson walked over to share a few words. Christian shared a few words back and pointed to himself to remind Jackson he's the champ. They cut to break mid-discussion after five solid minutes of televised wrestling to start the match.

Back from break, Christian and Regal were pretzeled on the mat with Christian in control. Christian then accepted multiple forearm blows and a punt to the gut for a two count from Regal, who locked in a mat-based submission hold. Christian tried to counter into the Killswitch from his feet, but Regal kicked him in the leg and went back to the submission repertoire. Christian fired back, but Regal cut him off again. Christian then teased the Killswitch again, but Regal shoved him off and hit an Exploder suplex. Christian rolled to the corner and Regal went for a kick strike to the face inside the ringpost that Christian sold like a pro. Regal then went back to the mat with a nervehold as Christian rallied the fans. Christian reached his feet and Regal teased a butterfly suplex, but Christian countered with an inside cradle for a two count only. Christian then hit slaps to the face before making a comeback at the top of the hour.

Christian hit a Tornado DDT out of the corner and approached Regal for a cover, but Regal kicked out. Christian then got the crowd into it and he came off the second rope with a dropkick. He tried another dropkick, but Regal moved out of the way and teased the Knee Trembler, but Christian countered with a pin for a two count. Christian then tried a sunset flip pin, but Regal rolled through and hit a knee to the nose for a two count. Regal then took Christian to the corner and landed successive blows. Christian caught Regal with a European Uppercut, though. He teased the Killswitch again, but Regal blocked, only to have Christian toss him over the top rope to the floor. Suddenly, Jackson stormed the ring and attacked Christian from behind for a DQ.

Post-match: Jackson picked up Christian to allow Jackson to nail the knee trembler to the face. Jackson then scooped up Christian and delivered a uranage center ring. Jackson stood tall, then Regal raised his arm as Christian remained lifeless on the mat. Cue up Jackson's music as Regal talked trash to Christian. WWE rolled credits, but Jackson got in one last exclamation point with a second uranage for good measure to close the show.

WINNER: Christian via DQ in 17:00. Awesome match between Christian and Regal. They started with great chain wrestling in the beginning, Regal delivered solid offense in the middle and there wasn't an extended isolation on Christian that kept things interesting, and they built to a good exchange at the end without over-doing the counter/reversal/counter pattern. The non-finish was expected and effectively set up the Rumble match. It also set up Christian vs. Regal for another run post-Rumble if they go that route. This was good and worth a DVR replay. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 27 2010, 01:41 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-25-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38423.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Unified tag champions DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. LEGACY (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE) -- non-title match

Cole plugged DX vs. Punk and Gallows for the tag titles on Smackdown this week. DX and Legacy traded control, then Cole suddenly snapped to attention shouting there's breaking news on the guest hosts on the other side of the break.

They returned from break with Michaels looking for a hot tag and receiving it. He teed off on Cody Rhodes as Lawler asked Cole about the breaking news, which is that James Roday is not here and they "don't know exactly why." Back to the action where Michaels dropped Cody in the corner and teased a top rope elbow, but DiBiase ran interference. Michaels simply adjusted his flight plan and splashed both men on the outside in front of the guardrail. Michaels was slow to re-enter the ring, which allowed Cody to snap off a neckbreaker to cut off Michaels's offensive advantage.

Legacy worked over Michaels for a while, then Cody ran off Hunter from the ring apron. Michaels then tried to get a tag, but Hunter was absent. DiBiase tried to work over Michaels, but Michaels broke free and got the tag to Hunter this time. Hunter then ran over DiBiase before giving Cody a spinebuster. Same for DiBiase. Hunter then had the Pedigree on Cody, but Michaels blind-tagged himself into the match. Cody then shoved Hunter into Michaels and they had a stare down. In the confusion, Michaels turned and dropped DiBiase with sweet chin music. Hunter then ran over Cody with a clothesline and Michaels pinned DiBiase for the win. Afterward, Michaels and Hunter shook hands and settled their differences. Cole plugged the tag title match on Friday night's Smackdown

WINNERS: DX at 10:05. Match served two purposes of continuing to hype Hunter and Michaels as the top acts in the Rumble and teasing tension between DX to give them an "out" if they drop the titles on Smackdown. DiBiase and Cody looked silly at times in the match, but they were simply secondary stars meant to enhance DX here. (*1/2)

2 -- MVP vs. BIG SHOW

MVP had a few glimpses of offense, but Big Show blocked a boot and nailed a chokeslam for a quick win. Post-match: Miz stormed the ring with belt in hand and trash-talked MVP, who sold the chokeslam. Miz then proudly held up his title belt and smirked for the crowd.

WINNER: Big Show at 1:01. Quick squash of MVP one week after Show quickly KO Punched him. Miz is really being emphasized here, which is good. MVP had a decent showing in the pre-match promo to counter the imminent loss, although the "friend" promo verbiage was eye-rolling from the really bad book of DX 2009 and John Cena 2007 promos. (n/a)

3 -- MARYSE vs. EVE -- Divas Title semi-final tournament match

Maryse did her cocky "you want some?" gesture at Eve leading to Eve scoring with some early offense. Eve then went for a top rope moonsault, but airballed. Maryse tried to follow with her hair-flipping DDT, but Eve blocked. Maryse then followed up with the hair-flip DDT for the win. Maryse celebrated post-match and got her shine on the way to the finals.

WINNER: Maryse at 2:05 to advance to the finals. Short and sweet with focus on Maryse here. The exchange with Dule Hill was somewhat awkward, but in a way that actually enhanced Maryse's character. She just has "it" right now. (n/a)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Tough spot for both men right after the big promo exchange between McMahon and Cena. Miz quickly grounded Kofi, but Kofi came back with a pendulum kick strike out of the corner. Kofi followed with a top rope splash to Miz's back for a two count. Kofi then missed with a leaping forearm and Miz hit a combination neckbreaker for a two count of his own. Suddenly, MVP's music hit. No sign of MVP, though. Miz then turned around and took Trouble in Paradise to the face for the pin and the win. Post-match: MVP walked out on stage and stared back at Miz, who smirked at him from inside the ring while checking his jaw. The feud continues.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston at 3:39. Nice little tit-for-tat between Miz and MVP to keep the feud going. Looks like they'll work the feud into the Rumble match, then come out with a U.S. Title match on one of the Raws after the Rumble PPV. Meanwhile, Lawler continues to defend Miz on commentary. Maybe it's something, maybe it's nothing. (*)

5 -- GAIL KIM vs. ALICIA FOX -- Divas Title semi-final tournament match

Alicia was aggressive early on, then she shot a look to Dule Hill, who gave her the thumbs up. Gail capitalized on the distraction for a slam and a two count. She followed with forearm strikes and a slam for the pin and the win. Post-match: Alicia slammed the mat in frustration, then slammed her hands on the announce table demanding to know what happened to her victory. Dule tried to calm her down, saying he's just an actor. He said he's not the real psychic and they just need to let it be water under the bridge. Alicia then reared back and popped Dule across the face before storming off. Lawler helped Dule up as he sold the effects.

WINNER: Gail at 1:55. Gail gets a win and she still isn't the focus here. Anyways, it's Gail vs. Maryse in the finals. Date TBA.

6 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN CENA -- non-title match

Cena hit a traditional Fisherman suplex at the top of the hour, but Sheamus cut him off with a clothesline mid-ring. Sheamus then slowly worked over Cena as the announcers talked about Sheamus backing up every word he's said about taking out Cena. Sheamus knocked Cena off the ring apron with a big strike, then Cena slowly pulled himself back in the ring. He nearly tricked Sheamus into the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus slipped out and hit a nice DDT for a two count. Sheamus then hit a standing powerslam for a two count. Sheamus then took Cena to the outside and rammed her into the guardrail. He returned to the ring and told the ref to start counting out Cena. The kids ringside screamed in horror as Cena remained motionless before storming the ring just before ten. Sheamus then missed with an elbow drop and Cena fired off his big comeback. The crowd popped as Cena did his Shuffle routine. He wanted the AA, but Sheamus slipped under Cena and hit a backbreaker across his knee for a two count. Sheamus then stood over Cena and eyeballed Cena for something painful. He wanted the Bicycle Kick, but Cena ducked and rolled into an STF. Sheamus was too close to the ropes, though, and Sheamus escaped. Sheamus rolled to the outside and Cena followed, but Cena ate an emphatic bicycle kick on the floor that took the air out of the building.

Sheamus rolled back into the ring and demanded a count from the ref. Cena sold being KO'ed again, then out of nowhere, Randy Orton stormed the ring and hit the RKO on Sheamus from behind for a DQ. The crowd did a "shocked" reaction here. They didn't buy Orton as a babyface with their reaction. Orton then pounded the mat and stared a hole into Sheamus, who remained out cold on the mat. Cena then tried to get into the ring, but Orton grabbed him and wanted the elevated DDT. Orton took too long, though, and Cena popped to his feet and dropped Orton with the AA. Cena's music hit as both Sheamus and Orton were out cold on the mat with Cena celebrating. How often do both wrestlers in a WWE Title match end up face-down on the mat leading to a PPV title match? After they replayed the ending moments, Cena was shown standing tall in the ring looking down at the fallen Sheamus and Orton to close the show ten minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNER: Sheamus via DQ at 9:50. Strong TV main event to conclude the Rumble hype. Sheamus was presented very well here, as the only reason why he was face-down to close Raw was due to Orton's sneak attack. Cena gave Sheamus a good amount of offense and Sheamus came across like a barbaric, effective heel capable of delivering a beating. Good piece of TV, although it was odd seeing both Orton and Sheamus face-down before their title match at the PPV. The one thing WWE didn't establish was who to root for between Sheamus and Orton on Sunday, which will be rather interesting on the PPV. However, the emphasis at the beginning of Raw was on DX as top Rumble contenders (before they refreshingly disappeared from the show) and the emphasis at the end of Raw was on Cena as a top Rumble contender, as expected. Overall on this show, WWE completed a thumbs up sales pitch for the Rumble getting viewers excited, establishing the top contenders, and creating some tension between two of the big players - Hunter and Michaels. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 29 2010, 12:07 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 1-26-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38460.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ECW champion CHRISTIAN & KANE vs. WILLIAM REGAL & EZEKIEL JACKSON

The match was joined in progress with Christian and Regal picking up their singles match from last week's main event. Regal then tagged in Jackson and Christian backed away to bring in Kane. Jackson smiled and liked this match-up. They came close before bouncing off the ropes and colliding mid-ring with no one budging. Kane then went to fighting stance before locking in a side headlock. They had another mid-ring collision and Jackson screamed, "I'm too strong!"

Kane answered by rocking him with a right hand before landing a knock-down clothesline for a two count. Good exchange that popped the crowd before Christian tagged in and popped Jackson across the ear with a series of blows. Jackson had enough and slammed Christian, but missed with an elbow, allowing Kane to tag back in. Kane and Jackson battled back and forth before Christian tagged in and tried to knock Jackson off his feet to no avail. Christian finally went to the second rope and nailed a dropkick to take Jackson to the mat for a two count. Christian then hit a falling inverted DDT and Jackson rolled to the outside. Christian then splashed both Regal and Jackson to take advantage going to break.

Back from break, chaos broke out as the wrestlers brawled in and out of the ring. Eventually, the heels took control and worked over Christian with in-and-out tags trying to wear down the champ before the Rumble. Jackson settled into a prolonged beating on Christian while Kane tried to encourage the audience to get behind Christian. Instead, Regal ran across the ring to smack Kane, which led to Christian back to being stuck in the heel corner taking a beating. Kane finally took the hot tag at 16:00 and cleaned house on Regal including a sidewalk slam. Kane stared down Jackson, then went up top and hit a top rope fist smash. Kane followed by launching Christian off the top rope onto Jackson. Kane and Jackson then battled on the floor while Regal missed with the Knee Trembler in the ring. Christian teased the Killswitch on Regal, but Jackson tagged in while Christian was trying to execute the move. After Christian hit it, Jackson entered legally and surprised Christian with the Uranage for the pin and the win. Post-match: Jackson rubbed his boot in Christian's face and stood tall to close the segment.

WINNERS: Regal & Jackson in 18:00. Good, extended form TV tag match. Jackson looked strong, which confirmed what we knew that Christian is winning at the Rumble. The key was to build up Jackson as a "big pin for Christian to knock down" at the Rumble, which was accomplished. Kane was a good addition to the program this week. (**)

2 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Rosa Mendes) & TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT vs. YOSHI TATSU & GOLDUST & THE HURRICANE

Goldust and Croft started things off against each other in a battle of yellow and black ring outfits. They had an early miscommunication then Goldust ran over all the heels and dropped Croft with a boot to the head. The action then broke down and the babyfaces stood tall in the ring staring down at the heels regrouping on the floor while Rosa provided some trash-talking in Spanish going to break.

Before returning to the match, they plugged Raw on Monday with focus on Bret Hart's return to confront McMahon. Back to the match, Rosa was doing some high-pitched yelling as the babyfaces were in control. Croft continued to take a beating as the theme of the match before Barreta tagged in and took an arm drag from Goldust. Meanwhile, Jim Ross is BBQblogging on ECW tonight. Back to the action where Hurricane tagged in and held control before Ryder ran a distraction to allow the heels to cut off Hurricane and begin working him over. Barreta then tagged in and showed off some cocky strutting before doing his high-pitched scream on a dropkick. The scream makes him stand out...but not in a good way. Ryder tagged back in and worked over Hurricane as Goldust went down to one knee on the apron to beg Hurricane for a hot tag.

They hit the top of the hour with Hurricane teasing a comeback, only to have Ryder cut him off and bring back Croft. I've tried to put my finger on who Croft looks like and I've come up with Johnny Depp for the face, Ricky Ortiz for the nose, and Brian Pillman with the hair. Croft then lost control and Yoshi tagged in to fire up on Barreta, who also tagged in. Yoshi went up top and nailed a spin kick before the action broke down in the ring. Goldust then delivered a double uppercut on B&C, which set up Yoshi for a roundhouse kick on Barreta for the pin and the win. Ryder: "What?!" on the outside post-match. Hurricane, Goldust, and Yoshi celebrated in the ring while the heels argued on the outside to close out the show.

WINNERS: Team Yoshi in 14:00. Another solid tag match. A bit too formulaic to be memorable, but they put a good spotlight on Yoshi at the end, Goldust at the beginning, and Ryder as the stand-out heel teaming with the new-coming tag team. Ryder, Hurricane, and Yoshi are in the Rumble, but that wasn't noticeably emphasized on commentary. Overall, fine conclusion to the show. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 31 2010, 12:38 am
WWE Superstars Results: 1-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38518.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BELLA TWINS (NIKKI & BRIE BELLA) vs. JILLIAN HALL & KATIE LEA BURCHILL

Typical start to the match with the Bellas holding a brief early advantage before the heel divas used sleight of hand to take control. Hot tag was made for the Bellas, which led to the Bella in yellow (yes, they're both in yellow) executing a spinning head scissors on Jillian. She followed with a victory roll on Katie Lea and the other Bella in yellow held off Jillian for the Bellas to pick up the pin and the win. Cue up the standard wide shot of a happy arena celebrating the victory for the babyface team.

WINNERS: Bellas in 5:00. The heels were foiled yet again, the show got off to a "happy start," and the babyface divas were able to show off their smiles and wave for the crowd. That's the formula and it was stretched out over a fine five minutes of TV. (*)

2 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CHAVO GUERRERO vs. PRIMO COLON -- Royal Rumble qualifying match

Masters took out both opponents early on, but Chavo took out Masters at the knee to send him out of the ring. Chavo and Primo then battled with Masters on the outside as Cole talked about this being the "most-star-studded field" in Royal Rumble history. Not so much. The hyperbole WWE feeds their announcers can be quite eye-rolling. Masters then re-entered and teased the Masterlock on Primo, but threw him away and caught Chavo with the Masterlock, only to have Primo knock him out of the ring. Back to Primo and Chavo, then Primo hit a suicide dive on Masters on the floor. Chavo then went up top and hit a big splash on both Masters and Primo. Nice sequence. All three men were down as they cut to break with the finish on the other side of the break.

Back from break, Chavo and Primo were battled, then Chavo knocked Masters off the apron as Masters tried to re-enter the action. Masters eventually got back in, but he was knocked down in the ring this time. Chavo then wanted the vertical suplexes on Primo, but Primo countered #3 with a small package for a two count. Masters then grabbed Chavo from behind and pretended to be struggling to execute the Masterlock before dumping Primo to the floor. Chavo then rolled under Masters for an attempted victory roll, but Masters countered into the Masterlock. Chavo teased a rope break, but Masters yanked him back to center ring to score a submission for the win. Afterward, Masters and Eve celebrated the win and Masters's Rumble entrance.

WINNER: Masters via submission in 11:00 to earn a slot in the Rumble. Primo vs. Chavo was the best part of the match. Chavo is really underutilized right now, but he's earning steady TV time being a secondary wrestler in each of his matches. Masters was rightfully kept out of the action for the most part to set up his limited power offense and moves. WWE is trying to protect Masters as much as possible, which is good for continuing to market him as an "attraction" with a memorable finisher. (*1/2)

3 -- MATT HARDY (w/Great Khali and Ranjin Singh) vs. D.H. SMITH (w/Tyson Kidd and Natalya)

Smith and Hardy locked up center-ring to start things off as Grisham talked up Hardy's new "key" logo on his ring trunks, which suggests Hardy is trying to unlock his future. Smith then bailed to the floor and Hardy smashed him with a kick through the ropes. "How about that for impact?" Grisham said with emphasis on "impact" ten minutes before Spike TV's weekly wrestling show. HD regrouped on the floor as Hardy remained in control going to break.

Back from break, Smith was methodically taking Hardy apart to set up the fans for rallying behind Hardy. Smith cut off a brief comeback with a knee to the face as the announcers talked up Bret Hart coming back to Raw on Monday. Meanwhile, Natalya slapped Hardy across the face as Hardy was draped across the middle rope. Smith then went back to work driving a boot to Hardy's neck and upper body. Hardy tried to mount a comeback out of the corner, including an elbow to the back of the head, before hitting a bulldog for a two count. Hardy then teased the Twist of Fate, only to transition to the side effect for another two count. Hardy wanted to end it, but Natalya ran another distraction, Khali inadvertently grabbed the ref's attention, then Kidd smacked Hardy in the face, which allowed Smith to kick Hardy in the head for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Khali entered the ring and clotheslined Smith over the top rope to the floor. Tyson Kidd then took a fall over the top rope via Khali. Khali proceeded to celebrate in the ring before doing the ugliest-looking dance I've ever seen to his dance music. This was worse than Elaine on Seinfeld. Khali then picked up Hardy and helped him to his feet before deciding to dump him over the top rope too. Khali was like, "yeah, it's all good." Khali then danced some more as Hardy looked up at him from the floor to close the show.

WINNER: Smith in 11:00. Fine singles match. The distractions ringside helped keep the match moving along as Smith methodically picked apart Hardy. Hardy had a few moments of offense and they booked outside interference for Hardy to retain some credibility here. Meanwhile, Khali's ugly dancing will remain burned in my memory. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 31 2010, 12:40 am
TNA Impact! Results: 1-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38520.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)DESMOND WOLFE (w/CHELSEA) vs. SEAN MORLEY

Taz tells us the name of Wolfe's new special friend. The crowd, not being comprised of morons, comes alive for Wolfe. Morley starts things off with a hammerlock on Wolfe, which seems like a really bad idea. Sure enough, Wolfe reverses it and drives Morley into the ropes. He pounds Morley down in the corner. When he complains to the ref about the five count, Morley comes back with a series of clotheslines and chops. Tenay notes that Morley's using both arms for offense, which I hadn't noticed. Wolfe stops him short with a hammerlock takedown. He wrenches Morley's arm, then cinches in a Rings of Saturn like double arm bar. Morley gets up swinging, but gets taken down by an arm wrench. Morley blocks Wolfe's running elbow and comes back with more clotheslines. He goes for a cover, but Wolfe kicks out at one. Morley floors Wolfe with a nice half nelson slam, but when he goes to the top rope for The Money Shot Wolfe knocks the rope under him. Morley slips, and that's enough for Wolfe to connect with the Tower of London. The crowd happily counts along to three.

WINNER: Desmond Wolfe in about three and a half minutes. This is more the role I envisioned for Morley—maybe they felt like he needed one win before being a legitimate jobber?

(2)DANIELS vs. HERNANDEZ

It's a shame that one of these guys won't go on. I'd assume that Daniels is doing the job, but Hernandez does have that tag team championship weighing him down. Daniels jumps the bell, getting in some quick strikes before Hernandez slows him down with a knee lift. Hernandez hits a delayed vertical suplex that must have taken at least 10 seconds. Daniels looks for a Sunset Flip, but Hernandez stops himself and tosses Daniels across the ring with a Cracker Jack. Daniels pokes the eyes as he gets up, then nails a standing Ensuguri that barely gets two. We're told that, in addition to determining the #1 contender, this tournament will also be used to establish new TNA rankings. Daniels works a nerve hold. When Hernandez starts to power out Daniels takes him down with an STO then connects with a Springboard Moonsault for two. Daniels is looking for some kind of power move when Hernandez takes him over with a Back Body Drop. Daniels quickly knocks Hernandez out of the ring, but Hernandez comes back with his slingshot shoulder block. Hernandez hits a big clothesline, a towering Back Body Drop, a Stinger Splash in the corner, and then a t-shirt assisted toss across the ring. He charges in the corner, but this time Daniels steps aside. Daniels hits him, but he comes back with a boot and elevates himself to the top rope. Daniels tries to meet him there, but Hernandez knocks him down. Daniels gets out of the way of the ensuing top rope splash, but even a rope-assisted cover isn't enough for 3. Daniels hits a series of palm strikes, but Hernandez just shoulder blocks him half way across the ring. Daniels gets up into a gut-wrench Dominator, and that's all she wrote.

WINNER: Hernandez in five minutes.

(3)THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE vs. HAMADA, AWESOME KONG, & TARA (w/POISON)

Hamada and Rayne are about to lock up when Rayne decides it would be a good time to mock Kong. Hamada just chops the hell out of her, then arm wrenches her to the mat. She grabs Rayne's arm and does an Old School style Arm Drag off the top rope. Rayne gets to her corner, and the Beautiful People start trading quick tags and working over the left wrist of Hamada. Hamada rolls through and takes Rayne down with a Drop Toe Hold. She gets the tag to Tara who hits a series of right hands, a Body Slam, and a shimmy-shake Moonsault for two. The crowd says that "divas suck", but I don't know if they're responding to The Beautiful People or the shimmy-shaking. Sky gets in a cheap shot from the apron, which lets Rayne back Tara into her corner. The Beautiful People trade quick tags again, but when Sky Irish Whips Tara both she and Tara look for hair yanks at the same time. Tara tags in Kong, who scares the Beautiful People a bit before just tagging Hamada back in. Hamada takes down everyone with spinning kicks and Ensuguries, but when she tries to finish off Rayne with a Moonsault the ref is distracted from the cover. As Awesome Kong chases Sky backstage, Lacey hits Hamada in the back of the head with the ugly stick then wards off Tara long enough for Rayne to get the cover.

WINNERS: The Beautiful People in six minutes. After the match they continue the beat down on Hamada and Tara till Love comes down to make the save.

(4)BRIAN KENDRICK & THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. AMAZING RED & GENERATION ME.

Kendrick jumps the bell, attacking Amazing Red and beating him into the corner. Red slips away, tosses Kendrick to the other corner, and runs up his back. Shelley tags in and the Guns look for a double team, but Red kicks one and rolls over his back with a spinning wheel kick onto the other. Max of Generation Me tags in, and they hit some wacky quick double team moves, including a joint neck breaker/back breaker. The Guns take control and hit the front face lock/dropkick. Red tags in, but when he looks for his Sunset Flip Powerbomb on Sabin Shelley cuts him off with a Superkick to the head. Kendrick blind tags himself in as the Guns look for their stereo Superkicks, then just kicks Red in the side of the head and gets the cover.

WINNERS: The Motor City Machine guns and Brian Kendrick.

The British Invasion suddenly come down to the ring, briefcase in hand. They beat down Red a bit more, but right when Terry's about to cash it in, Magnus suggests that he should give it to Williams. I'm thinking we have the first failed surprise Feast or Fired title shot coming. That'll be fun. During the break Terry gave Doug Williams the briefcase.

(5)DOUG WILLIAMS vs. THE AMAZING RED
X Division Championship Match
We come back just in time to see Williams connect with his Chaos Theory rolling German Suplex, which is enough for the win.

WINNER: Doug Williams in ???. My ending was better.

(6)MR. ANDERSON vs. JEFF JARRETT

Anderson and Jarrett lock up. Anderson backs Jarrett into the corner. When the ref pulls him off he tries for a cheap shot, but Jarrett sidesteps and connects with punches of his own. The ref pulls him off next. Anderson gets a side headlock, which Jarrett reverses. Jarrett comes off the ropes with a couple shoulder blocks, then feints a right hand, the mere prospect of which sends Anderson to the mat. Anderson gets up swinging, and connects with a couple clubs to the back. He taunts the crowd with Jarrett chants of his own. Jarrett comes back with a couple hip tosses and a high dropkick, then clotheslines Anderson out of the ring. He struts.

We get back as Anderson shoves Jarrett, on the apron, shoulder first into the ring post. He follows Jarrett to ringside and bangs his arm into the steel steps. They roll back into the ring, where Anderson hits a hammerlock slam for two. Anderson yanks back on Jarrett's arm. Jarrett powers out, but then runs into a boot from Anderson in the corner. Anderson connects with an arm bar takedown, and does an Angle-style cover for two. Anderson shoots Jarrett off into the ropes; Jarrett dodges a couple of clothesline attempts, but then gets caught with a side headlock and an overhead wrist lock. Jarrett powers out again, but this time is stopped short by a running shoulder block. Anderson goes to the top rope, but Jarrett rolls out of the way of the attempted Senton Bomb. Jarrett powers up, and gets up firing with right hands. Anderson looks for the Mic Check, but Jarrett reverses into an attempted Stroke; Anderson connects with a low blow below the ref's field of vision, and connects with a Small Package for the win.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson in fourteen minutes. We cut to Bischoff smiling in the back, commenting that this is great.

Mr. Anderson announces his own victory, but after the first "Anderson" he follows Jarrett out to ringside and starts whacking his back. He rolls Jarrett into the ring, stalks him, then nails the Mic Check. Bischoff, apparently talking to himself in the back, tells Jarrett that it'll be a long, hard climb back to the top of this mountain.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 31 2010, 12:42 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38560.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – TRIPLE H vs. C.M. PUNK

Matt Striker noted that Triple H told Shawn Michaels that he’d do this himself, and sent Shawn to the back. Crowd was into Triple H early on. Couple head-lock take-overs started the match off on a positive note for Hunter. Todd Grisham said that in the last four Royal Rumbles he’s been in, he’s made it to the final three. I did not know that. That’s crazy. The haggard-looking Punk took over in the corner, but not for long. Hunter tried to hook in a Pedigree, but Punk escaped to ringside. Triple H pulled Punk back up to the apron and into the ring, then had a few words with Gallows. Springboard clothesline by Punk, but he couldn’t make a cover. Both men were down as they went to break.

Back to action with Punk in control, getting a two-count on a cover. A distraction by Gallows allowed Punk to take control during break. He wore Triple H down with a head-scissors in the ring. Striker called Triple H “basically the father of this industry right now,” and credited him for the Randy Orton vs. Sheamus match we’ll be seeing at the Rumble because Hunter groomed Orton in Evolution. I’ll say this: Striker is knows how to kiss ***. Trips turned the tide with a vertical suplex. Punk got on his feet first though, and kicked Triple H to the head, leading to a near-fall. Triple H began his trademark offense with a spinebuster approximately nine minutes into the match. But he was too worn down to continue the assault. Knee to the face by Triple H followed by more right hands, pummeling Punk in the corner. High knee by The Game for a two-count. Pedigree was set up, but Punk predictably back-dropped out of it. Running knee in the corner by Punk, but the bulldog attempt was unsuccessful. Hunter went for a knee-brekaer, then locked in the Figure-Four. No mention of Flair, but Grisham did mention Evolution again. Hunter grabbed the ropes for leverage behind the ref’s back. Serena distracted the ref while Gallows broke Triple H’s hold on the rope. Punk got Hunter up for the GTS, but Triple H got out and tried a Pedigree. Serena ran in and jumped on his back for the DQ.

WINNER: Triple H, via DQ, at 12:01. Match was on the low end of what these two can probably do; never really felt like it got out of first gear.

2 – CHRIS JERICHO vs. R-TRUTH

These two had words with each other last night on WWE Superstars. High hip-toss by Truth, then a dropkick got Jericho off-balance. He clotheslined Jericho over the top rope and to the arena floor. Truth flew over the top for a cross-body, but Jericho dodged him and allowed him to crash to ringside with a thud. They went to break about 1:15 into the match.

Jericho kicked away at the chest of Truth upon return from break. Truth fought back to his feet and there was a mis-communication before Jericho set Truth up for a suplex, only to drop him chest-first across the top rope. Gut-buster by Jericho as the announcers talked about Royal Rumble contenders. Truth found himself locked in an abdominal stretch. Headscissors take-down by Truth, then a jumping side-kick for a near-fall. Grisham said Truth told him his favorite Rumble was 1992, the one that Flair won (as both men are from Charlotte). Grisham mentioned Flair twice, but Striker told him everyone is looking toward the 2010 Rumble and no one cares about the 1992 one. In the end, Jericho went for the Codebreaker, but Truth held onto the ropes. He got the pin with a jackknife roll-up.

WINNER: Truth, at 8:14. Good match that will likely lead to Jericho getting his revenge at the Rumble.

3 – JOHN MORRISON vs. DREW MCINTYRE – NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH FOR THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Morrison got the mic before the match and said unlike McIntyre, he wasn’t hand-picked by the brass in the back and groomed to be champion. He said after McIntyre beat him for the IC Title, he saw Drew drop the belt backstage to run up to, and do a chest-bump with, his Irish friend Sheamus. He took that as disrespect toward the belt. He said tonight, McIntyre can’t cheat or run from him.

Striker noted that the IC Title has never changed hands in Cincinnati, but Morrison did win it down the road in Cleveland. Morrison was the aggressor to start and got the first cover of the match. He clotheslined McIntyre over the top rope and to the outside. Mac appeared to be looking under the ring, and he produced a kendo stick, which he walloped Morrison with. Back in the ring, a cover by McIntyre garnered him a two-count. A few hard clotheslines from McIntyre, then he kicked Morrison in the gut as Morrison jumped to avoid McIntyre in the corner. Morrison fought back, which led to McIntyre taking a breather on the outside. He grabbed his belt and tried to leave, but Morrison physically stopped him. The fight moved back into the ring, where McIntyre bashed Morrison in the head with right hands. He grabbed the belt and held it up as they went to break about 4:00 into the match.

McIntyre still had the advantage once the show returned from break. Morrison was thrown to the outside after attempting a Flying Chuck kick. McIntyre tried to throw the steel steps at Morrison, but the challenger managed to avoid them. The champion instead clotheslined Morrison over the barricade and into the crowd. The two brawled there, where Morrison got the better of McIntyre. Morrison flew over the barricade with a clothesline onto McIntyre back at ringside. He got the kendo stick and worked over his opponent with them. A thumb to the eye by McIntyre halted the onslaught. Morrison caught a charging McIntyre with a hip-toss onto the ring steps. Back in the ring they went, where Morrison covered Mac for a near-fall. He set up for Starship Pain, but McIntyre got his knees up. McIntyre locked in the Future Shock (double-arm DDT) and drove Morrison’s head into the Intercontinental belt, which was still in the ring. The pinfall followed.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 11:34. Pretty entertaining match, one that didn’t really hurt Morrison’s value I don’t think. McIntyre’s in-ring style is flashy, but he’s crisp.

4 – LAYLA “JAMES” vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL

McCool walked around ringside with the food, baiting Layla around. Striker managed to name drop Haystacks Calhoun and Nikolai Volkoff. Layla charged at McCool, missed and hit the turnbuckle. McCool school-girled Layla and rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: McCool, at :51. Striker was laughing this whole time, making jokes, while Grisham tried to stay out of it and acted like he was disgusted by Layla and Michelle’s actions.

5 – REY MYSTERIO vs. SHAWN MICHAELS

Michaels took Mysterio down with a shoulder tackle, then chopped away at him. Rey missed a charge and Michaels threw him under the bottom rope. When Rey popped up, it looked like he hit his head on the camera. Back in the ring, he set Michaels up for the 619, but Michaels wasn’t worn down enough and escaped to ringside. More chops from HBK in the corner. Mysterio went to ringside and again, Michaels chopped him down. He’s like Tenryu in there! Snap mare by Michaels back in the ring, then a stomp on the face. Mysterio gave a boot to Michaels, then head-scissored him over the top and to the outside. More to come after break.

I know they’ve been hyping this up as the first time match between these two, but the only other singles match between Shawn and Rey I can think of is at the Eddie Guerrero tribute Raw. Back to the show, Mysterio kicked away at the legs of HBK and used a couple of potential submission holds to soften him up. Michaels turned the tide and again chopped Mysterio in the corner. Drop-toe hold by Mysterio sent Michaels into the corner. Mysterio went to the top, but ended up getting hung up in the corner. Rey tried a dropkick, but Shawn caught him and applied a modified figure-four. Striker explained that the pressure is put on the back of the knee as opposed to front of the knee in this version of the hold. Mysterio grabbed the rope for a break. Mysterio hit an enziguiri on Michaels and both men found themselves gasping for air on the mat. Rey again worked the legs while Shawn countered with punches and (surprise!) chops. Flying forearm by Michaels and a nip up. Mysterio though got a hurricanrana in before HBK could capitalize. Seated senton by Rey for two. Rey went for a springboard, but was met with an atomic drop. Mysterio again worked his way to the outside and went for a springboard splash, but Michaels got his knees up. This time it was Shawn who went to the top, and connected with an elbowdrop. He began to tune up the band, but Rey ran into him with a spinning heel kick, shades of Savio Vega. 619 found the mark, but Rey struggled to ready himself for a springboard. When he did, he jumped right into a superkick, which looked awesome. Nearly as awesome as Shawn doing that same sequence to Shelton Benjamin some years ago. Rey almost got folded in half when he hit the mat. Before Michaels could follow up, Batista hit the ring and took out both Rey and Michaels.

WINNER: No Contest, at 15:46. Sad, but understandable, that two of the top matches on the show ended in DQ. It is the go-home show for a PPV after all.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 03 2010, 12:32 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38650.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN CENA vs. CODY RHODES -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match

Cody was on the advantage early on working over Cena as the announcers talked about him costing Randy Orton the WWE Title match on Sunday. Cena was heard audibly calling a spot before Cody missed with a knee drop and Cena started his usual comeback routine. Cody then countered the sit-out slam and rolled up Cena for a two count. Cena then grabbed him right away and hit a sit-out slam to do the You Can't See Me routine. Cody then walked right into the Attitude Adjustment, but he slipped out and hit a left-arm clothesline for a two count. Lawler was off, continuing to call Cody as Randy Orton, as Cody hit a top rope moonsault for a two count. Cena then came right back with the Attitude Adjustment out of the corner and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 2:52 to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match. No shock on this finish. Cody had some offense, but the memorable takeaway was him looking silly seemingly moving in fast-forward selling for Cena's unrealistic move sequences. Cena's sequences looked particularly unrealistic in this fast-paced match. (1/2*)

2 -- TRIPLE H vs. JACK SWAGGER -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match

The bell sounded and Swagger quickly put Hunter in a waistlock and put him on the mat. Swagger then did push-ups to antagonize Hunter. Swagger taunted Hunter, who then cold-cocked him with a right hand before hitting a high knee. Hunter then knocked Swagger to the floor going to break one minute into the match.

Back from break, Jack Swagger was in control, then the action moved to the floor where Swagger took control. Back in the ring, Swagger hit a standing powerslam before locking in a rear chinlock. Swagger then went for a running Vader Bomb out of the corner, but Hunter got his knees up to block. Swagger then got up and took right hand blows from Hunter, who hit a jawbreaker across his knee. Hunter then landed right hand blows in the corner before catching Swagger out of the corner for a spinebuster and a two count. Swagger was straight winded at this point, then Hunter teased the Pedigree, but Swagger back dropped out. Swagger then went for another running Vader Bomb and Hunter kicked out just before three. Hunter then walked into a belly-to-belly suplex and Hunter kicked out again. Swagger followed with shoulder thrusts in the corner, but he got carried away and lost focus - which seems to be the typical way every young wrestler is booked to lose in WWE - allowing Hunter to counter a back drop into the Pedigree. Hunter made the cover for the win. After the match, they showed Hunter celebrating the victory with a determined look on his face.

WINNER: Triple H at 9:10 to qualify for the Elimination Chamber. Surprise! Cena and Hunter are in the Chamber. Match was just okay, as they seemed to just be calling random spots at the end. Not sure if it was unfamiliarity between Hunter and Swagger in the ring or Swagger's inexperience, but it wasn't smooth at times. I'm not sure what it is with Swagger right now, but he just seems off. Being pushed down the ladder for eight months on Raw probably hasn't helped his psyche. (*)

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. SHAWN MICHAELS -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match

The bell sounded and they had a brief stare down before locking up. Orton drove Michaels to the corner, then he broke and Michaels glared at him with his John Wayne ice-cold look. Orton met him with an equally-icy glare before missing with a right hand and Michaels landed a knife-edge chop to the chest. Michaels then hit a neckbreaker and teased the superkick, but Orton bailed to the floor. Michaels followed and the chase was on back into the ring where Orton teased the spike DDT, but Michaels blocked, landed a chop, and went up top where he hit a flying cross-body block for a two count. Orton then sent Michaels upside down in the corner before hitting the fallaway backbreaker to focus his attack on Michaels's lower back, which prompted Michael Cole's standard back injury history lesson.

Orton slowed things down with a focused attack as the announcers talked about both men being in a fragile state of mind. Orton then took Michaels up top, but Michaels knocked Orton off the top with forearm strikes before hitting a flying elbow drop. Michaels then went to the corner to tune up the band at 6:00, but Orton ducked and teased the RKO, only to have Michaels hit an atomic drop and chop combo twice. Michaels then flew off the ropes with a trademark flying elbow smash. He was about to do the classic kip up, but Orton grabbed him in mid-air and rolled up Michaels for the surprise pin and the win.

Post-match: Orton walked out of the ring pleased with himself in his own way while Michaels fought himself on screwing up again. Orton's music stopped and Michaels walked around the ring in frustration. Michaels ripped off his wrist bands and stomped out of the ring muttering to himself. The announcers talked about it being a frustrating 24 hours as Michaels disappeared in the back.

WINNER: Orton at 6:37 to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match. Only went seven minutes, but it felt like a longer match. Great storytelling from both men and a great finish with the flurry at the end before Orton made the big counter. If only someone would roll up Cena on the "You Can't See Me" hand wave. Michaels's post-match storytelling was well done to hook viewers on what's next. (** mainly for the story.)

4 -- MARK HENRY vs. TED DIBIASE -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match

Henry dominated early on including shoulder blocks and a shove to the floor. DiBiase regrouped on the floor before yanking Henry's left arm into the ringpost. DiBiase then dropped Henry into the ring steps with a drop toe hold. He slid back into the ring at seven before going to work on Henry's left arm back in the ring. DiBiase then tried a top rope move, but Henry caught him in mid-air, only to have DiBiase slip out and yank Henry's arm across the top rope. DiBiase followed with a single arm DDT on the arm that put Henry on the mat. DiBiase then made the cover and Henry couldn't use his arm to kick out, giving DiBiase the win.

WINNER: DiBiase at 3:06 to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match. Not the most aesthetically-pleasing match, but a solid match from a "this is presented as a shoot match" perspective with DiBiase taking apart a body part that helped him win the match. Good to see DiBiase, a non-Usual Suspect, in the Chamber match. (*)

5 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. BIG SHOW -- Elimination Chamber qualifying match

Kofi tried to attack Show early on, but Show thwarted his attacks. Kofi then avoided a boot and Show was hung up in the ropes. Kofi dropkicked him off the ropes to the floor before they cut to break.

Back live, Kofi tried to fight back on Show as Miz was congratulated for his U.S. Title victory over MVP last night at the Royal Rumble. Miz then left the commentary table to taunt Kofi on the floor before MVP jumped the guardrail in basketball shorts and a t-shirt to attack Miz. Their brawl went to the back as Lawler continued to defend Miz on commentary.

After the confusion, back in the ring, Kofi went on the attack on Show including a Boom Drop for a two count. Kofi caught Show in the corner with punches, then Show sold a thumb to the eye. Show then turned around to blast Kofi with a right hand, but Kofi ducked and the ref sold a punch even though Show completely missed. Show realized his error and checked on the ref as ref #2 Scott Armstrong came down to the ring. He called for a DQ on Show, which upset Big Show. Show said he couldn't see after Kofi thumbed him in the eye. He then pleaded with Scott to reverse the decision. They replayed the finish with a reverse angle on Show's airballed punch to the ref. Meanwhile, Show screamed and yelled at the fans taunting him as he left. The ref was put on a stretcher with medics tending to him to sell the angle and Show's punch. "It was an accident!" Show shouted.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston via DQ at 8:20. That was the definition of a back-door entrance into a title match, as the focus remained on Big Show pleading his case that he shouldn't have lost. Kofi and Ted are the two new stars in the title situation, but Kofi has little momentum right now. Not a memorable match despite the distractions. (1/2*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2010, 09:03 am
ECW on SyFy Results: 2-2-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38686.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. VANCE ARCHER

Benjamin started his attack aggressively, catching Archer off guard with body shots in the corner. Shelton dove over the top rope (without touching the ropes) and landed on Archer on the outside. As Benjamin was coming back into the ring though, Archer caught him with a kick to the chest. Benjamin suplexed out of a chin-lock and then he clotheslined Archer from behind. Benjamin attempted another high-risk move on the outside, but Archer avoided it and Shelton went face-first into the padded guardrail. Archer tried to regain his bearings as they went to break about 2:00 in.

Benjamin was trying to work his way out of a rest-hold, but couldn't do so. Archer threw Benjamin into the corner, where Shelton collided with the turnbuckle chest-first. Standing suplex by Archer, as apparently they're trying to present him as the ECW's version of Mike Knox based on Mathews' commentary. Sidewalk slam for a near-fall. Archer missed a running knee in the corner, and Benjamin went after said knee. Archer came back, but Benjamin countered a suplex with a neck-breaker for two. Attempted roll-up in the corner by Shelton, but Archer sat down on it. He tried to get the pin, but either they were too close to the ropes or the ref saw Archer go for the rope for leverage, so he had to break it up. Archer followed with another roll-up, feet on the ropes, for the win. I'm assuming the previous pin was supposed to be the finish.

WINNER: Archer, at 9:48. Archer still isn't showing a ton in the in-ring or charisma department. He's lacking that something that prevents guys from moving up the card.

2 - YOSHI TATSU vs. TRENT BARRETA

Goldust came to the ring with Tatsu, and Caylen Croft with Barreta. The two men had some fast-paced exchanges to begin the match. Tatsu was thrown out just above the bottom rope, but held on and quickly came back in. Barreta found the ropes to avoid Tatsu and that break allowed him to take over on offense. Standing dropkick to the chin for a pin attempt. Chinlock by Barreta. Tatsu fired back with a back-body drop and a few kicks. Tatsu rolled through on the snap-mare and kicked Barreta in the chest. Barreta tried to suplex Tatsu off the top, but couldn't do it. Instead, Barreta landed a hurricanrana off the top for a near-fall. Barreta argued with the ref, a rookie mistake, as it allowed Tatsu to kick him in the head for the victory.

WINNER: Tatsu, at 3:59. Perfectly suitable match, though I don't know where this feud is really headed. It's early, but I hope it's not going to be the Cryme Tyme vs. Hart Dynasty of 2010.

3 - CHRISTIAN vs. ZACK RYDER

Christian was in the ring already to save time. I would've loved to have heard William Shatner doing a rendition of Ryder' theme song last night. A pair of-lockups led to a stalemate. Ryder was on offense and choked Christian in the middle rope. Spinning heel kick by Christian as Ryder went to the apron to recover. He stuck a shoulder into the rib of a charging Christian. Ryder got his face planted on the apron, then Christian dropkicked him through the ropes and almost into the announce table. Rosa distracted Christian while he was on the second rope, and Ryder capitalized by catching a dropkick attempt and doing more choking in the ropes. Christian fought out of a side headlock, but got caught in a rough-rider leg lariat by Ryder for two. Christian went to the top and hit a cross-body for two. Christian missed a corner charge, but face-planted Ryder. After working over Ryder with the middle rope, he dropkicked his opponent off the top for two. Sunset flip, but Ryder sat down and got a near-fall. European uppercut off the middle rope for two. Killswitch was effective, but Ezekiel Jackson ran out for the DQ.

WINNER: Christian, via DQ, at 5:25. Fun, high-energy match.

Jackson, with Regal in tow, continued his assault on Christian, throwing him into the steps outside the ring and standing over him as the show closed. Looks like that feud isn't over quite yet.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2010, 09:06 am
WWE Superstars Results: 2-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38751.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ALICIA FOX & KATIE LEA BURCHILL vs. EVE & KELLY KELLY

Eve had some early offense in the match, then the heels isolated her to build to Kelly taking a hot tag at 5:00. Kelly got in her trademark spots of a spinning head scissors and a running cartwheel into a handspring elbow in the corner on Alicia, who was legal. Kelly followed with a pin attempt out of the corner, but Burchill broke it up. Chaos ensued. Alicia then rolled through a top rope cross body splash attempt by Kelly and scored the pin for the heel win. Afterward, the heels gloated about the win as Eve tried to help Kelly collect herself in the ring.

WINNERS: Katie & Alicia in 6:00. Nice, long-form divas match. The Superstars format has given the divas a little breathing room to have some longer matches. The matches typically look the same and follow the same formula, but there are enough credible women on the roster to mix and match to create some interesting match-ups, especially when Gail Kim and Maryse are involved. (*1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. CARLITO

Hot start to the match with Bourne blasting Carlito with early kick strikes before Carlito came back with a standing dropkick for a two count. Carlito slowed things down before hitting a fallaway elbow drop for another nearfall. Bourne then came back with a dropkick that cleared Carlito to the floor. Bourne teased a high-flying move, but Carlito shoved him away. Bourne stayed on his feet and ducked a clothesline, then hit a high knee smash beneath the chin that Carlito sold nicely. Back in the ring, Bourne teased the Shooting Star Press, but Carlito rolled out of the ring to the floor. The camera then zoomed in tight on Bourne as he remained perched on the top turnbuckle in control going to break.

Back from break, Bourne landed a kick strike to the face, but Carlito responded right away with a big boot to the face that led to a nearfall. Nice exchange. Carlito then reset and proceeded to beat the crap out of Bourne in the corner with rapid-fire strikes before hitting a nice neck-snap slingshotting Bourne throat-first into the bottom rope. Carlito then stretched Bourne with mat holds targeting the neck and upper back. They fought back to their feet and Bourne nailed a double knee drop for a two count with Cole selling excitement on commentary.

Carlito then came back with a big running knee lift, but Bourne ducked a follow-up clothesline for a sweet wrap-around bridge pin for a nearfall. Carlito then came back with another powerful strike and scored another close two count. They fought to the ring apron where Bourne stunned Carlito with two knee strikes to the head before Carlito collapsed to the mat like a tree in the forest. Bourne tried to run up top for the Air Bourne, but Carlito crotched him to take the excitement out of the crowd. They fought up top and the audience rallied behind Bourne, who nailed a sunset flip powerbomb off the top rope. Bourne then picked himself up and went to the corner to nail Air Bourne perfectly in the corner for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Bourne in 13:00. That was an awesome match and both men came out looking better than when they came in. It's the best I've seen Carlito look in his current WWE run. He was the perfect heel to face Bourne, as Carlito's strikes and power offense looked impressive with Bourne bumping around for him. Meanwhile, Bourne was able to make good comebacks to build anticipation for that Air Bourne the audience wanted to see. This was easily one of the best Superstars matches I've seen since the show launched in April. (***)

3 -- JOHN MORRISON & MATT HARDY & GREAT KHALI (w/Ranjin Singh) vs. IC champion DREW MCINTYRE & HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya)

Hardy and Kidd started off against each other before Morrison tagged in and executed double-team offense on Kidd with Hardy. The heels eventually got the best of Hardy momentarily and began working him over in their corner. They suddenly cut to commercial with Hardy "in trouble" with Smith working him over.

Back to the match, Hardy was still being worked over by Smith. Morrison then tagged in at 9:00 and Kidd flung him off the top rope to the floor below. Hardy walked over to check on his fallen tag partner before Natalya landed a sudden strike to the gut behind the ref's back. McIntyre then officially tagged in and followed up by ramming Morrison into the ring apron. Back in the ring, McIntyre went to work on Morrison before HD started tagging in and out to continue the attack. Morrison then kicked Smith in the head to break free and tag in Hardy, who hit the Side Effect on Smith for a two count when the heels broke up a pin.

All three heels were in the ring, but Khali yanked Kidd and Mac out of the ring. The whole deal broke down before Morrison hit a running clothesline off the guardrail on the heels. Back in the ring, Hardy tagged in Khali, who hit the Punjabi Plunge on Smith and kinda leaned over Smith for the pin and the win. And everyone celebrates and dances. Khali, Hardy, and Morrison got their curtain call in the ring as the camera picked up some unsuspecting younger audience members dancing in the ring. Apparently WWE is trying to create a new dance craze with Khali's awkwardness. After a replay of the finish, they cut back to the babyfaces dancing awkwardly in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Khali in 12:00. Fine, but not particularly memorable multiple-man match. Kidd was lost in the shuffle without getting in much offense and Smith just hasn't developed an identity or personality in the ring. The babyfaces having a common ground of Khali awkwardness is fine for reaching the target demo and connecting with the kiddos like R-Truth's weekly rapping. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2010, 09:08 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38756.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)BRUTUS MAGNUS vs. MR. ANDERSON
Eight Card Stud Qualifying Match

Magnus looks for a lock up, but Anderson knees him in the gut. He punches Magnus in the corner, but Magnus blocks one and unloads with rights that back Anderson all the way across the ring. The ref pulls him off, and Anderson takes advantage with a lightning fast dropkick to the knee. Anderson pounds Magnus against the mat with stomps and an elbow drop. The crowd is cheering him now. He whips Magnus into the corner and stomps a mud hole in him. The ref tries to pull him off, but he continues stomping Magnus as he argues with the official. Anderson resumes the assault, but Magnus fights out of the corner and connects with a Big Boot. He whips Anderson into a shoulder block and hits a Union Jack for two. Magnus lifts up Anderson for the Tormentum, but Anderson is able to get his thumb into Magnus's eye. As soon as his feet hit the mat Anderson nails the Mic Check for the kill.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson in 3 minutes. I really want to like Brutus Magnus matches, but somehow they don't usually click with me.

(2)HERNADNEZ & MATT MORGAN (c) vs. TEAM 3D
Tag Team Championship Match

Hernandez and Ray lock up, as we're told that Hernandez and Morgan sought this match. Both men go for forearms, and they come out even. Hernandez shoulder blocks Ray across the ring, but whiffs on a charge in the corner. Ray whips him into the opposite corner and charges. Hernandez shoves back Ray and goes to the top rope, but Ray chops his chest and and tosses him to the mat. An elbow drop gets two. Devon tags in, and Hernandez overpowers him and makes the tag. He lets Devon recuperate, so Devon comes out firing with punches and a flying clothesline to Morgan. A leg drop gets one. Morgan hits a 360 Degree Clothesline as he gets up for two. Hernandez tags in and works a face lock. Devon powers out, but runs right into Hernandez and bounces off and to the mat. Hernandez powers Devon onto the corner, but when he looks for the Superplex Devon bites his head. Devon hits a Kamikazee Headbutt. Why is that move still legal? Both men tag out. Ray gets the early advantage with quick jabs. Morgan turns him around, Ray goes for a German Suplex, Morgan blocks it with his elbows, but then Ray catches Morgan's boot and connects with the German. Hernandez comes in and eats a Samoan Drop. A double team neck breaker on Morgan gets two. Hernandez comes back in, and Team 3D set up for Wazzup?. The Nasty Boys run down and shove Devon off the top rope. As Ray stares them down Hernandez recovers. Ray tries to take him back down with a Ura-Nage, but Hernandez blocks it and shoves him into a Carbon Footprint from Morgan. Morgan makes the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Hernandez and Matt Morgan in six minutes—that was pretty good.

(3)JESSE NEAL vs. SAMOA JOE

I was starting to worry about Joe. Neal tries to jumps the bell, but Joe fights him off with a Tazplex. He chops the hell out of Neal in the corner, charges him, then jump kicks his head off. Neal tries to fight back from his knees as the crowd decides that Joe is now face. Neal rakes Joe's eyes, but even with a running start he can't take Joe off his feet. Neal punks out the crowd, then goes to the top rope for a Cross Body Block, but Joe just walks away. Joe stomps the living daylights out him, charges him in the corner with a knee and Muscle Busters him. He yells out for AJ before getting the cover.

WINNER: Samoa Joe in two minutes.

(4)"THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. AJ STYLES (w/RIC FLAIR)
Non-Title Match

Tenay talks about the "amazing transformation" we've seen in AJ Styles. Apparently that's the new euphemism for "inexplicable turn". Pope gets a quick wrist lock to start, so AJ backs him into the corner for a break. AJ hits a few chops, but the Pope comes back with a slap to the face and a Drop Toe Hold. AJ gets away for a second, but Pope explodes with a fast series of elbows, complete with his own lewd gesture. AJ rolls out of the ring.

AJ hits a shoulder block as we get back. Pope shoots him off, but he stops himself and hits a chop. He shoots Dinero off in turn, then nails his leap frog and high dropkick. He stomps Pope against the ropes, then catapults his throat into the bottom rope. AJ sets Pope up in the corner and starts chopping. Pope chops back, but doesn't have enough. AJ locks in a rear chin lock, but Dinero gets to the ropes. AJ chokes Dinero against the middle rope for the full four count. He hits a straight suplex, then makes a nonchalant cover for one. Dinero fights back from his knees; AJ shoots him off into the ropes but he flips over AJ and gets a Sunset Flip for two. AJ gets up and hits a Decapitator Clothesline for two. AJ cinches in another chin lock as the crowd comes alive for Dinero. Dinero tries to power out, but AJ whacks the back of his head. AJ stomps him around, as Dinero makes nice gestures that show he's still trying to defend himself. AJ stands Pope up, which might have been a mistake, since Pope suddenly blocks a punch and unloads with a rapid fire series of punches. A flying back elbow gets two. When AJ gets up he pokes Dinero's eyes and nails a Standing Ensuguri. AJ waits for Pope to get up in the corner, but Pope dodges. He chops AJ into the ropes for his leaping Guillotine Choke now called (according to Taz) the "The Coronation", but AJ blocks it. AJ looks for a suplex, which is reversed into a Small Package for...holy shit that's three!!!

WINNER: D'Angelo Dinero in 10 minutes. I did not see that coming. Could someone check when the last time AJ lost a match was? I don't remember him losing since August. ***1/4

(5)TOMKO vs. KURT ANGLE
Eight Card Stud Qualifying Match

Tenay asks who will be advancing—my wife points out that we don't need the match to answer that. Comically enough, Taz then basically says the same thing. Angle starts things off with a quick go behind and a German Suplex, but Tomko comes back with a kick to the head. They go toe to toe, and Angle hits his surprise head butt and then clotheslines Tomko out of the ring. He follows him to the outside and bashes his head against the stairs. He rolls Tomko into the ring, but when he follows him in Tomko connects with a nice Snap Power Slam to take control. Tomko whips Angle shoulder first into the ring post and then hits a Power Slam for two. Tomko cinches in a nerve hold; Angle powers out, but rights right into a Two-Handed Choke Slam. Tomko's looking pretty crisp. He goes to the top rope, but Angle runs up the ropes and hits a Belly-to-Belly Superplex. He gets up just before Tomko and hits a pair of German Suplexes. Tomko blocks the third with some elbows, but misses a charge in the corner and eats an Olympic Slam for a long two count. Tomko nails a Decapitator Clothesline as he gets up. Tomko looks for a Big Boot, but Angle ducks it and nails a lighting fast German Suplex. They almost blow the second, but then nail a third, a fourth, and a fifth. Kurt drops the straps and locks in the Angle Lock, complete with grape-vined legs. That's it.

WINNER: Kurt Angle in five minutes—another good match, and a good showing in defeat for Tomko.

(6)TARA (c) (w/POISON) vs. ANGELINA LOVE
Knockouts Championship Match

Angelina has new music but the same rope-straddling ring entrance. They jockey for position, with Tara eventually taking control with a side headlock takeover, continuing the side headlock against the mat. Love rolls her into a cover, but Tara rolls it back. Love reverses into a head scissors, which Tara later reverses into a bridge for two, which Love re-reverses with a Backslide for two of her own.

We come back for a Test of Strength, which Love somehow twists into a hammerlock on the mat. Tara gets to her feet, still in a wrist lock, but then reverses it into one of her own. Love picks a leg and sends Tara to the mat. She picks her up and slams her head first into the top turnbuckle, but when she goes to do it again in the opposite corner Tara reverses it. Love floats over in the corner and gets a School Girl for two. Tara hits a kick and a side slam for a long two count. Love gets up firing, but misses with the attempted Bicycle Kick. Tara goes for the Widow's Peak, Love reverses it into a Victory Roll for two, but Tara re-reverses and stacks Love up for three.

WINNER: Tara—I don't know why they didn't get more time, but it is a pretty packed show. At some point during that match there was a "spontaneous wardrobe malfunction" with Tara's top.


(7)KEVIN NASH vs. MICK FOLEY
No Disqualification Match

Nash tosses some weapons in to start, and grabs a trash can. He uses it as a shield to block Foley's bat, but it gets crushed. Nash has to switch to a chair, but that gets messed up two. Nash grabs a hockey stick and nails Foley's ankle. He grabs the barbed wire baseball bat and tries to shove it into Foley's face, but Foley grabs it long enough to nail a back kick for a low blow. Mick attacks with rights, so Nash rolls out of the ring. Mick follows him out and slams Nash's head into the apron. He hits a few more shots, then rolls back into the ring. He grabs something, but, as Nash comes into the ring, Mick suddenly double clutches and won't use it. Nash connects with a Big Boot for the win. Not surprisingly, the object was the caricature of Mick and Abyss.

WINNER: Kevin Nash in two minutes. Why did they even bother having this match?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 10 2010, 12:21 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38791.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. JOHN MORRISON vs. KANE – TRIPLE-THREAT ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Morrison tried to fight off McIntyre and Kane once the bell rang, but soon, it was McIntyre and Kane going at it. Kane grabbed both men by the throat, but instead, the enemies teamed up to DDT Kane. Morrison cross-bodied McIntyre over the top rope and both men landed on the floor. They went to break about a minute into the match.

McIntyre was up in Kane’s grill out of break, but once he got the big man to a vertical base, he ceded the advantage. Morrison came back into the picture, but got a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by McIntyre. Mac walked into a big boot. He went to the top rope, where he was kicked in the head by Morrison. Morrison was the disposed of over the top rope by McIntyre. McIntyre tried to go up to meet Kane, but was shoved down. He ended up getting McIntyre by the throat, but Morrison hit the Flying Chuck kick on Kane. Cover got two after a leg lariat on the Big Red Monster. Morrison countered McIntyre with a DDT, but a pin was broken up by Kane. Kane clotheslined Morrison and McIntyre in opposite corners, then sent McIntyre to the outside via a clothesline. Sidewalk slam for a two-count on Morrison. Kane went to the top again, this time, landing a flying clothesline. McIntyre nailed Kane with the IC Belt (no DQ’s in a triple-threat), then connected with the Future Shock, but a pin was broken up by Morrison with a knee to the face. Morrison took advantage of the opportunity and pinned Kane after Starship Pain.

WINNER: Morrison, at 8:24. Solid match, and I look forward to seeing Morrison in the Smackdown Chamber. He should be fun to watch in there.

2 – R-TRUTH vs. MIKE KNOX – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Truth used his speed to stay away from Knox, but Knox landed his patented cross-body. High knee-drop by the Phoenix native for two. Knox was sent to the outside, where Truth jumped over the top and onto him. Dropkick off the top back in the ring by Truth. He hit his spinning flying forearm and picked up a decisive win.

WINNER: Truth, at 1:35. The quick match doesn’t speak well for Knox. However, it does continue Truth’s sudden push.

3 – BATISTA vs. CM PUNK – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Luke Gallows and Serena did come to the ring with Punk. Once the bell rang, Batista just leaned back in the corner, looking very casual. Punk wanted to get things started, but Batista simply soaked in the jeers of the crowd. Then he stepped out of the ring, walked down the steps and stared at Gallows on the outside. Instead, he turned his back and started walking up the ramp. He got half-way up and stared at the ring while the ref counted. He didn’t move a muscle as the referee counted to ten.

WINNER: Punk, via count-out, at 1:47. Unique situation there. Answers the question of why we’d get a heel vs. heel match-up like that. I’m sure we’ll get a comment from Batista later on, but it kind of devalues the title when someone willingly gives up a shot in the Chamber like that.

4 – MATT HARDY vs. CHRIS JERICHO – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Jericho cowered in the corner as Hardy advanced toward him. Jericho shoved Hardy after a lock-up, then ran out of the ring. Hardy got the advantage with some right hands and a clothesline. Striker said that, in terms of Matt Hardy’s ring style, “you never know what you’re going to get.” Well, you can bet on a Side Effect. Jericho and Hardy both took their fight outside the ring, where Jericho kicked Hardy into the steel steps. Grisham brought up the fact that a torn Achilles tendon ended the career of NBA Hall-of-Famer Isaiah Thomas, yet Edge returned in only a few months. Striker surmised that Edge is a better athlete than Thomas ever was. “Or coach,” he said, taking a shot at Thomas’ record on the bench. Hardy got back into the ring at a nine-count and was bleeding from the nose or mouth once he got back in. Not sure if the fans bought that count-out tease after Punk just won in that fashion. Enziguiri got two for Jericho. Hardy fought back with a bulldog for two. Elbow to the back of the head off the second rope. Twist of Fate was unsuccessful, and a Lionsault from Jericho connected for a two-count. Crowd finally got into Hardy, who soon after landed a Side Effect for two. Jericho went face-first into the corner, but missed a charge. Jericho rolled Hardy up with his feet on the ropes for two. Walls of Jericho was attempted, and he was able to turn him over, but Hardy powered out and registered a pinning combination for two. Jericho held onto the ropes on a Twist of Fate attempt, then hit the Codebreaker for the win. “Vindication for Chris Jericho!” proclaimed Striker.

WINNER: Jericho, at 7:00. Perfectly serviceable match. Hardy had some real nice near-falls near the end to wake the crowd up.

5 – MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA vs. MICKIE JAMES & BETH PHOENIX

The heels showed off their new hoodies that said “Simply Flawless” on the back. Phoenix dominated McCool until Michelle caught her with a boot to the gut. Splash in the corner by Beth as she stayed aggressive. McCool took out the knee of Beth and began to work it over with elbowdrops. She couldn’t fully lock in the heel hook, and Layla was knocked off the apron once Beth got to her feet. Tag to Mickie, who worked the arm of McCool. However, Beth gave a straight right hand to Mickie, her partner, soon after. Phoenix smiled at McCool, then nailed her as well. Both legal women were down in the ring as Beth walked to the back. Layla was able to tag in, but before she could do any damage, James small-packaged her for the win.

WINNERS: James and Phoenix, at 2:39. More about setting up or advancing the feuds than the match itself, but Phoenix showed good intensity and her segment with McCool was well done.

6 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Mysterio had a nice bright green/black ensemble working. Ziggler with a hard clothesline for two. Roll-up by Mysterio for two as well. Mysterio kicked away at the legs of Ziggler. Head-scissors take-down sent Ziggler to ringside. Mysterio flew onto Ziggler with a cross-body. Rey came up holding his ribs, and Striker believed it was effects from his match with Undertaker this past Sunday. Mysterio went to the top for another cross-body once Ziggler was in the ring, but Dolph countered with a dropkick as Mysterio was in mid-air. Mysterio came back to line Ziggler up for a 619. Match went to break a little over 3:00 in.

Back from break, Ziggler was pounding away at Mysterio. Rey was perched on the top rope and Ziggler tried a suplex off. He was successful in his attempt. Two-count only though. Ziggler began to stretch Rey a bit. The crowd was Rey’s bulwark at this point as he was able to fight out. The pace quickened somewhat as Rey rolled through a roll-up attempt by Ziggler, only to catch him with a kick to the face. Springboard by Rey, wheelbarrow into a bulldog for a near-fall. Mysterio tried a springboard about a minute later, but Ziggler caught him and slammed him in one fluid motion. Ziggler whipped Rey into the buckle, then gave him a back-breaker. Ziggler set up a back-breaker but Rey turned it into a roll-up for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 10:37. Good finish out of nowhere that will give credibility in future matches to pin attempts out of nowhere.

Ziggler tried to get him some of Rey after the match, but Mysterio took him out with the 619. Striker said Mysterio may have just won the biggest match in his career. I’d say the one where he actually won the title would be bigger, but that’s just me.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 10 2010, 12:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-8-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_38858.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. ECW champion CHRISTIAN -- champion vs. champion

The bell sounded and Sheamus quickly took control before clotheslining Christian to the floor going to break after 45 seconds of action.

Back from break, Christian made a comeback as Cole hyped the new TV show on Tuesday nights. He pronounced it "N-X-T" rather than "NXT" without an "e." Christian hit a trademark running splash off the top rope on the floor, then Sheamus reversed a whip and sent Christian into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Sheamus went to work on Christian by driving his neck into the mat. Cole inserted a plug that WWE will announce the first official Hall of Fame inductee later in the show. Christian then made his comeback at 7:00 and nailed an open-hand slap. He followed with flying European uppercut from the second rope before landing right hand blows from a mount position. Christian then wanted a tornado DDT, but Sheamus blocked. Christian then ducked the bicycle kick, but Sheamus hit a clothesline. Christian came back with a pendulum kick out of the corner before hitting a Tornado DDT out of the corner for a two count only.

Christian then did his clap routine to get the crowd stomping as he set up the Killswitch, but Sheamus shoved him over the top rope. Christian landed on the apron, though, and tried a top rope move only to take a big corner clothesline. Sheamus then followed with his bicycle kick to the face. Sheamus tried to follow with the running Outsider's Edge and he connected. Sheamus then made the cover for the pin and the win. The crowd was like "what?" in shock that Christian would lose after "re-debuting" on Raw. Sheamus stood tall over Christian to close the segment.

WINNER: Sheamus at 9:37. Boy, I don't know about that booking. Sure, McMahon is of the belief that Christian is at a certain level and no more, but booking Christian to lose clean to Sheamus his "first night on Raw" was questionable. Sure, Sheamus needed the win to pick up some credibility, but that victory at Christian's expense clean in their first match-up is a little sketchy in my view. We'll see where it goes from here. The match itself was good in a way that it looked like a legit competition to win a match rather than a choreographed dance routine. They were off at times, but in a way that played into the legitimacy of the match. (*3/4)

2 -- Unified tag champions DX (SHAWN MICHAELS & TRIPLE H) vs. U.S. champion THE MIZ & BIG SHOW vs. C.M. PUNK & LUKE GALLOWS (w/Serena) -- Unified tag title match -- Elimination match

The action was joined in progress with Michaels and Punk battling. Punk nailed a high knee in the corner followed by a running bulldog. Show then entered and threw Punk into Michaels in the corner. Show then warmed up for a big charging corner splash, but Punk and Michaels moved. Hunter then tagged and entered. Apparently it's three men in the ring at one time. Show, Hunter, and Luke were in the ring for Hunter to knock down some big pins, which led to Hunter teasing the Pedigree on Show, but Show back dropped him over the top rope to the floor. 2:25 into the somewhat-awkward start with three men in at once, they cut to a break.

Leading back to the match, they plugged the end of ECW with more to come on tomorrow night's show. Back live, everyone was still in the match as Punk, Hunter, and Miz were three men in the ring. The action built to a hot tag for Michaels just at the top of the hour. Michaels came off the top with an elbow drop on Punk, then the action broke down as Michaels tuned up the band. After the action cleared out, Michaels escaped a G2S and dropped Punk with the superkick. Michaels then made the cover on Punk for the first elimination at 8:45. So, now it's Show & Miz vs. DX. After Hunter and Michaels came together to exchange glances, Show clotheslined both of them. Show then talked trash to Michaels that he's weak and he's nothing. Show proceeded to headbutt Michaels after Michaels tried to land a chop. Show then slowed things down slowly working over Michaels, who took repeated blows to the gut that drew maniacal chuckles from Show. Michaels fought back with a boot to the chin before Show landed a back drop for a two count.

Miz tagged in at 11:55 to get some TV focus. Miz taunted Michaels before coming off the ropes with a kick strike to the face for a two count only. Miz then hit a running knee off the ropes followed by a neckbreaker that put Michaels on the mat. Miz didn't make a cover and instead wanted the Skullcrushing Finale, but Michaels fought out of the hold and kicked Miz away. Show took a tag from Miz, then Show grabbed Michaels only to take a superkick. Show collapsed to the mat, then Hunter took a hot tag from Michaels. Hunter teed off on Miz with the classic moveset before knocking Show off the ring apron. Hunter hit the spinebuster, then Michaels blind-tagged in as Hunter was preparing for the Pedigree. Hunter and Michaels had a verbal exchange, then Miz shoved Michaels into Hunter in the corner. Miz then rolled up Michaels from behind and scored the pin for the win to capture the tag titles to the shock of the crowd.

Post-match: Hunter sold disbelief as Michaels tried to explain what happened. Big Show and Miz got their focus with the tag title belts with Show overshadowing Miz size-wise. Michaels told Hunter he didn't want to hear about his screw-up, then he threw off the wrist tape and stormed out of the ring. The camera focused on Michaels leaving up the entranceramp.

WINNERS: The Miz & Big Show at 14:20 to capture the Unified tag titles. Good tag match after they got away from that awkward three-men-in-the-ring tag format. The focus was on teasing more dissension between Hunter and Michaels, which will most-likely lead to them agreeing to go their own way going into WrestleMania rather than actually having a singles match against each other at WrestleMania. Show over-shadowed Miz a bit in most respects, so it will be interesting to see how their dynamic as tag champs plays out. I imagine there's a Taker vs. Show match and Miz vs. McIntyre match down the road with Show and Miz able to appear on Raw and Smackdown now. (**1/4)

3 -- GAIL KIM vs. JILLIAN HALL

The match went a minute with Gail hitting a fallaway boot smash beneath Jillian's chin for the win. Post-match: Maryse entered the ring and did her "I'm a normal person" promo continuing from last week. Gail was still equally confused. Maryse then asked for a handshake and Gail accepted. Maryse slowly walked away and left the ring to continue her mind games.

WINNER: Gail at 1:03. Well, they used about two minutes of TV time to tell a story to sell the Divas Title match. That's a positive to pull from this. (n/a)

4 -- RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES

The bell sounded and they came face-to-face. Orton teased Cody by slapping him. Cody then slapped back and followed with a high dropkick. They proceeded to engage in a standard wrestling match after deciding to find out who the better man is in the ring. Cody then missed with a top rope splash and Orton teased the RKO by going into his snake-like crouch. Suddenly, WWE champ Sheamus teased entering the ring, only to back off. Cody then took advantage of the distraction by hitting Cross Rhodes on Orton. Cody made the pin for the win and shouted toward Orton that he won the match.

Post-match: Sheamus hit his big bicycle kick to the face on Orton. He then wanted another impact move, but Cody shooed Sheamus away with a chair. Cody stood over Orton to protect him, which seemed to be a tease for Cody to turn on Orton, but they didn't book that development. Sheamus then slowly walked away before they cut to the announcers. Lawler said the whole situation just has a weird smell.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes at 2:45. Fine match with focus on the story to set up Orton for revenge on Sheamus at the Chamber. More Legacy tension potential with Cody scoring a win, then allowing Sheamus to get in a shot on Orton before making the save. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2010, 08:40 am
I'm back. If you need to see any of the wrestling results from February thru April of 2010, click the link to my TOKYOPOP Wrestling blogs under my signature picture. Thanks :)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2010, 08:40 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41071.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

First part was Batista's 9 minutes yapping his gums.

1 -- BATISTA vs. DANIEL BRYAN (w/The Miz)

Batista went for an early Batistabomb, but Bryan rolled down Batista's back and tried a sunset flip for a two count. Bryan then followed with an anklelock and Batista rolled to the floor for a break. Nice, intense start. Batista regrouped, then re-entered the ring and pounded on Bryan in the corner. Bryan surprised Batista with a sleeperhold, but Batista flung him to the mat and landed a kick strike for a two count only. Batista checked the clock, then pounded Bryan into the ringposts. Bryan blocked a third whip and tried a front facelock submission, but Batista suplexed him across the ring. Batista started coughing up a lung, then he made a cover for a two count only. Batista then dumped Bryan to the floor and rammed him into the ring apron. Back in the ring, Batista spun Bryan inside-out with a clothesline. He made a cover, but Bryan kicked out again.

Bryan then landed forearm smashes and a boot to the face that stunned Batista, who came back with a big boot of his own. Batista made a cover, but two count only. Bryan suddenly came back with an enziguiri kick before slapping on an armbar submission. Bryan transitioned into a Crossface, but Batista reached the bottom rope to break the hold. Bryan then stomped away on Batista and had to break on a four count. Bryan showed fire, but then took a kick to the knee from Batista. Batista then popped up and delivered a spear, followed by a Batistabomb center ring. Batista with the pin at 5:06. Post-match: Batista took out his frustrations with another Batistabomb on Bryan. Batista left the ring, then came back into the ring and scooped up Bryan again. He delivered a third Bomb

WINNER: Batista at 5:06. Great way to introduce Bryan as a sympathetic underdog babyface. The bit worked just fine to get over Bryan's submissions and get the audience to buy into the possibility Batista was going to tap out to Bryan. The final point was mission accomplished with Batista getting over his heel persona. Solid TV storytelling here. (*3/4)

2 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. TED DIBIASE

Morrison knocked DiBiase to the floor early on and Morrison landed a high-impact splash on the floor. A few fans ringside chanted, "That was awesome," as DiBiase recovered on the floor. DiBiase then walked away from ringside and the bell sounded for a count-out.

WINNER: Morrison via count-out at 1:15, match result erased on re-start...

Post-match: DiBiase kept walking and Morrison said this isn't how he's going to debut on Monday nights. He told DiBiase to get back in the ring and they'll re-start. DiBiase just kept walking. Morrison upped the stakes by saying he'll be DiBiase's Virgil if he loses. DiBiase turned and smiled at that offer. He then walked back down the ramp to the ring as they cut to break.

2b -- JOHN MORRISON vs. TED DIBIASE

They joined the action in progress with DiBiase in control of the match. DiBiase continued to work over DiBiase, adding a little Rick Rude acknowledgement of his physique, before Morrison came back with a kick to the head. Morrison tried to follow with a springboard flying chuck, but DiBiase yanked Morrison down from the ropes and scored a nearfall. DiBiase teased Dream Street, but Morrison flung DiBiase away. DiBiase followed with a powerslam for a two count, though. DiBiase tried Dream Street again, but Morrison trapped DiBiase's arms and spun over him for the pin and the win. The finish might look familiar from Bret Hart vs. Roddy Piper at WrestleMania 8.

Post-match: DiBiase jumped Morrison from behind and beat him down for a bit until R-Truth ran into the ring to make the save. DiBiase bailed and stared back at the babyfaces in the ring as Truth's music played.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:57. They seemed to pack about three weeks worth of storyline development into a two-part segment. This doesn't seem like a star-making type program for DiBiase and the segment came across like WWE doesn't have much for DiBiase and Morrison right now. We'll see if it leads anywhere. (*1/4)

3 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. WADE BARRETT -- Beat the Clock challenge match -- non-title match

Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment early on, but Jericho distracted Cena from the outside. The match moved to the floor and Barrett used another distraction from Jericho to take control. Back in the ring, Barrett pounded on Cena from a mount position as Jericho screamed at the announcers to tell the audience he's a machine. Barrett continued to work over Cena as they hit 2:35 to go on the clock. Barrett cut off Cena's first comeback attempt as the crowd started to get antsy with their hero in jeopardy. Jericho screamed at the announcers to talk up Barrett as they hit 1:00 to go. At 0:50, Barrett continued to work over Cena with a methodical attack. Suddenly, Cena slapped on the STF out of nowhere center ring. Barrett fought for a second or two, then he tapped out to give Cena the win.

Post-match: Cena took the mic to announce the stipulation for his match against Batista. He said he knows what the stipulation is...suddenly, Sheamus ran down to the ring and kicked Cena in the head to KO the champ. Sheamus stood over Cena's fallen body and stared into the crowd before walking off. Cena slowly came to life as Sheamus walked away to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Cena at 4:39. Predictable match with Cena making the Superman comeback before time expired to get the win. Sheamus is playing a really annoying heel (in a good way), as he keeps interrupting everything on the show. It's getting more and more heat, but if they play the hand too strong as the weeks go on, it will turn into go-away heat eventually. Again, we have to see where this is leading to.

4 -- MARYSE vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella)

Maryse came out for a random Divas match after the break. The Bella Twins followed out with apparently Nikki in the ring here. Nikki tried to land some early offense and the match moved to the floor. Back in the ring, Maryse cut off Nikki and hit the hair-sweep spike DDT for the pin and the win. Post-match: Maryse narrated a still shot she took at the photo shoot of her standing over Eve after KO'ing her. Eve then charged the ring and tried to attack Maryse, who bailed to the floor and played a cocky heel. A ref tried to hold back Eve as Maryse laughed and laughed to herself on the entranceramp on the way to the back.

WINNER: Maryse in 1:30. A typically short, filler Divas match to advance the Divas Title feud. (n/a)

5 -- ZACK RYDER vs. MARK HENRY

Henry attacked Ryder early on, with no one taking Ryder seriously, but Ryder came back with a top rope missile dropkick and the Rough Ryder for a two count. Ryder tried to keep Henry on the mat, but Henry came to his feet and set up Ryder for the World's Strongest Slam. And that's all she wrote. Naturally, the Divas ringside were unimpressed with Ryder. And this led to a self-deprecation joke from Cole on bad luck with the ladies. Henry then walked over the Divas and escorted them away from ringside to conclude the bit.

WINNER: Henry at 1:50. Another "we have nothing for either wrestler" match. The crowd realized that as well, as they waited for the World's Strongest Slam to show any interest in what was happening. (1/2*)

6 -- Unified tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. WILLIAM REGAL & KOZLOV -- non-title match

The bell sounded and suddenly the lights went off in the ring. The lights came back on and Regal locked up with Kidd. Regal and Kozlov knocked Kidd to the floor, then Regal went back to work on Kidd back in the ring. Kozlov and Regal then started working over Kidd as Cole tried to stir it up between Jericho and Miz on commentary. The heels continued to tag in and out working over Kidd as Jericho and Miz revealed their plan to win the tag titles so they can travel to Smackdown to go after Show. What's preventing them from going to Smackdown when there's been so much brand cross-over with no explanation for years and years? Anyways, Smith eventually hot-tagged and slapped on the Sharpshooter on Regal. The bell sounded randomly and the match was apparently declared over.

Post-match: Miz tried to run into the ring, but Smith cut him off. Jericho then followed in behind Miz and dropped Smith with the codebreaker. Cole dubbed them the Egomaniacs. "You suck, Chris Jericho!" shouted one lone fan near an arena mic. Miz and Jericho got their shine, then Miz dropped Smith with the Skullcrushing Finale. Cue up Miz's theme music. Jericho looks like an NBA coach who discarded his jacket after a poor call in the fourth quarter.

WINNERS: HD via submission at 2:46. Another too short, unhyped match that the audience had no interest in. Miz & Jericho forming a tag team simply to travel to Smackdown to go after Big Show might be the lowest-IQ reason to form a tag team ever conceived. It would be perfectly logical if there were not a long history of wrestlers crossing over brands for no reason whatsoever. WWE would have had to protect the brand split for this reasoning to be logical. Thus far, this show has come across like the Raw writing team ran out of time trying to draw up the episode. (3/4*)

Show closed with Edge-Orton segment that lasted 13+ minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2010, 08:42 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41070.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

First half hour of the show was 10 wrestlers beating each other up then Hulk Hogan single-handily clearing out the ring.

1 -- INK INC. (Shannon Moore & Jesse Neal) vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS & BRIAN KENDRICK

Matt Morgan joined Tenay and Taz on commentary. He referred to himself as "we," as usual. Morgan gave Hogan seven days to make a decision on who his partner will be at Sacrifice, otherwise it's open season on the entire roster. Moore hot-tagged in at 3:00 and rallied against Kendrick. Williams abandoned Kendrick. Neal speared Kendrick and scored the pin.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4 -- Good action for a short TV match. Ink Inc. could lead to some jokes, and I'm not sure about two tag teams ending in Inc. in the same promotion, but the name does make sense and good use of Moore and Neal.

2 -- LACEY VON ERICH & MADISON RAYNE & VELVET SKY vs. TARA & SERINA & TAYLOR WILDE

Lacey did a dance, which Taz compared to Elaine from Seinfeld. It wasn't that bad. Tara spit at Serina early, then tagged her in a minute later. Wilde entered next and Serina flipped her onto Sky. Tara wanted Wilde to tag her, but she tried to tag Serina. Tara blocked the tag and entered. Serina then tagged Tara's back to officially enter. Wilde shoved Tara. Tara knocked her out of the ring at 3:00. The BP then double-DDT'd Serina for the win with Sky scoring the pin.

WINNERS: Sky & Von Erich & Rayne in 3:00.

3 -- TEAM 3D vs. BEER MONEY INC. vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS

At 3:00 Brother Ray got a hot-tag from Devon and went to work on Beer Money as the Guns watched on the apron. Devon hit the headbutt to the crotch. Scott Hall and Kevin Nash entered the ring and caused a no contest ruling. The Guns just watched. Hall and Nash beat on Team 3D. Eric Young ran out with a kendo stick. Tenay said Syxx may or may not return to TNA. Young then attacked Team 3D and revealed himself as the new member of The Band. "You've gotta be kidding me?" said Tenay. Alex Shelley threw Young out of the ring. The Guns then double-teamed Hall with a missile dropkick. They followed with a climbing kick to Nash followed by a double superkick. Beer Money then jumped the Guns with a spinebuster and a DWI. Young stomped away at Brother Ray. Nash put his arm around Young.

WINNERS: No contest in 5:00.

4 -- A.J. STYLES vs. ABYSS - Monster's Ball Match

Dave Penzer said in this match "weapons are legal and encouraged." Abyss brought a trash can full of apparatus to the ring. Styles springboarded at Abyss, but Abyss caught him. He then threw a charging Styles over his head and into the ring. Abyss lifted a crutch, but Styles kicked him. Abyss swung a chair, but Styles moved. he went for another chairshot, but Styles ducked and hit a Pele kick. Styles followed up with a dropkick. Abyss whipped Styles a minute later into a chair wedged in the corner. He followed up with Shock Treatment for a near fall. That was a lot for Styles to kick out of. Abyss poured thumb tacks onto the mat. Flair walked to the ring. Chelea tried to stop him. That distracted Abyss, so Styles hit him from behind with a chair. Styles then gave Abyss a crossbody block and Abyss bumped onto the tacks. Styles then scored the pin. Chelsea entered the ring and smiled, having successfully distracted Abyss. She opened her raincoat briefly revealing a sexy black dress. Styles and Flair double-teamed Abyss as they cut to a break.

WINNER: Styles in 4:00.

5 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. DESMOND WOLFE -- TNA World Hvt. Title Match

If TNA wants to know why title matches don't draw like they could, just add up the hype for this title defense. Just Hogan announcing it, Flair berating Wolfe early in the show, and a couple nonchalant mentions by the announcers. No real sense that this is something special having a title defense on Impact. No big promo from Wolfe. No reaction by RVD to having to face Wolfe. It's just so inefficient. A TNA Title match should be hyped for at least a week ahead and there should be more fanfare when a new challenger is officially announced. Tenay plugged a few times during the show that Impact was moving back to Thursdays on May 13. A crawler at the start of this match said Impact was "moving home to Thursdays." It also plugged online voting for title contenders. Taz said he thinks online voting for contenders is a real cool deal. Wolfe got an early advantage and gloated. RVD made a comeback and hit Rolling Thunder. Wolfe caught RVD on the top rope with a punch. He set upa Tower of London off the top rope, but RVD blocked it. RVD hit a sidekick off the second rope. Wolfe charged at RVD, but RVD backdropped him into the ring pretty close to what Abyss did to Styles in the previous match. RVD then hit a Five-Star Frog Splash for the win. Styles ran out and jumped RVD, then held up the TNA Title and looked at the camera.

WINNER: RVD in 3:00. Now this show is starting to really piss me off. The fans vote for Wolfe in overwhelming numbers and they job him out in a match with little fanfare in three minutes? Would "idiotic" be a fair description of how TNA handled this? They deserve what they get with this type of booking.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2010, 08:43 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 5-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to DeRossenroll's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_41111.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - RODERICK STRONG vs. JOEY RYAN (w/Prince Nana and Mr. Ernesto Osiris) -- Pick 6 Contenders Series match

Nana jumped on the apron right after the opening bell, giving Ryan an opening to cheap shot Strong and take an early advantage. Strong rolled outside at 1:00, but Nana and Osiris landed some more cheap shots while Ryan distracted the referee. Strong rolled back inside and Ryan continued to work him over heel style for another few minutes, using a number of chokes and distracting the referee to allow Nana to get some shots in from ringside. Strong made a comeback at 5:30 by catching Ryan with an elbow as Ryan charged him in the corner and following the elbow with a quick back suplex.

As Strong began to get some momentum, Nana jumped on the apron to distract the referee while Osiris entered the ring from the other side. Strong knocked Osiris out of the ring but turned his back on Ryan to do so, allowing Ryan to schoolboy him into a pinning predicament with Ryan's feet on the ropes for leverage. The referee counted two but stopped when he noticed Ryan's feet on the ropes. Ryan hit Strong with a low blow out of the referee's line of sight, then followed it with a superkick, but Strong kicked out of Ryan's subsequent pin attempt at 7:00. Ryan then lifted Strong onto the top rope in the corner and called for his "Moustache Ride" finisher, but Strong knocked Ryan to with a pair of chops and quickly followed up with the Strong Hold submission finisher, forcing Ryan to tap.

WINNER: Strong in 7:30. A solid basic match but nothing special. It was really just a reason to get Strong on TV ahead of his title shot against Black this weekend in New York, although it did little to make Strong look like a real threat to Black with Ryan on offense almost the whole time. Dave Prazak helped the situation on commentary by talking about how this showed that Strong just needs a small opening to make his opponent tap to the Strong Hold.

2 - THE DARK CITY FIGHT CLUB (JON DAVIS & KORY CHAVIS) vs. CALEB KONLEY & PEE WEE

Davis started out against Konley and the DCFC dominated immediately. After a couple of their signature double teams, Chavis, who had tagged in, went for a pin but Pee Wee came in to break it up. Chavis deliberately allowed Konley to tag out to Pee Wee at 1:00. The DCFC punished Pee Wee for a while with strikes and power moves, then Chavis went for a pin at 2:30 only to have Konley break it up this time. Davis took out Konley by knocking him into the ringside barricade, then the DCFC landed their Project Mayhem double team finisher (simultaneous sit down powerbomb and neckbreaker) for the win.

WINNERS: Davis and Chavis in 3:00. Solid squash match with good selling from the enhancement talents to make the DCFC look dominant.

3 - NECRO BUTCHER vs. ROBBIE WOLFE -- Butcher's Rules match

Robbie Wolfe looks a lot like Dusty Wolfe, one of the regular enhancement talents who always lost squash matches on WWF Superstars in the 1980s. Necro came to the ring with a chair and started the match by chucking it at Wolfe. Wolfe bailed out of the ring but Necro pursued him and threw him into the fans. Apparently Jim Cornette's conditions on Necro's reinstatement were pointless because it took Necro 0:30 to break the ones about keeping the action within the barricades and keeping the fans out of it. Necro pulled the protective mats off the floor, pulled Wolfe back out of the front row, and bodyslammed Wolfe onto a chair on the bare floor. Necro beat Wolfe around the outside for a while, then took the action back into the ring where he bulldogged Wolfe face first onto a chair (Wolf subtly got his hand up to protect his head). Wolfe rolled back outside and Necro followed. The fans handed Necro the Section D sign, which Necro smashed Wolfe with. Necro then mercifully finished it by bringing Wolfe back inside and side slamming him onto two chairs to set up the pin.

WINNER: Necro Butcher in 3:30. Just a silly match. Necro got a good crowd reaction, but I suspect it was just a "welcome back pop" from the Philadelphia crowd because he has been off the TV tapings for a while. ROH needs to give Necro something to do because watching him destroy enhancement talents in hardcore squash matches is already old after one time. It totally demeans the concept of using gimmick matches to settle feuds. Hopefully, Necro Butcher will understand that he needs to protect his namesake gimmick match by keeping future Butcher's Rules matches mostly in the ring and using weapons sparingly, perhaps just for the finish. The silver lining of this match was that they avoided any unprotected chair shots to the head.

4 - AUSTIN ARIES (w/Kenny King) vs. DELIRIOUS (w/Daizee Haze) -- Pick 6 Contenders Series match

The fact that Aries was just hyped for next week's battle royal for a spot in the Pick 6 seemed to give away that Aries would be losing his current Pick 6 spot to Delirious here.

After a brief opening chain and mat wrestling exchange, Aries tried to take off Delirious' mask at 1:00, prompting Delirious to bite Aries' finger to make him stop. At 1:30, King tripped Delirious as Delirious rebounded off the ropes, handing the advantage to Aries. His advantage did not last long because Daizee Haze returned the favour shortly afterwards by tripping up Aries. Aries went to the outside for a breather at 3:00 but Delirious came through the ropes with a missile dive to take out both Aries and King, then pressed his advantage back inside. At 4:00, Delirious cornered Aries but Aries backflipped him over the top to the outside. Aries then distracted the referee to allow King to attack Delirious and slam Delirious into the ringside barricade. King threw Delirious back inside and Aries continued to beat Delirious down heel style for a few minutes.

Delirious mounted a comeback at 7:00 when Aries got cocky and played to the crowd, giving Delirious an opening to hit him with a slap-inverted atomic drop combination. Now Delirious got a good spell of offense until, at 9:00, he went to the top and tried for Shadows Over Hell, but Aries got out of the way. Aries retaliated with a kick to Delirious neck to Delirious, the referee and Daizee Haze sold like it was a legit injury. Referees and ROH officials rushed to ringside to attend to Delirious. Aries and King appeared to be leaving the ringside area when they suddenly rushed the ring and Aries double axe-handled Haze from behind while King dragged Delirious to ringside. The referee called for the bell to disqualify Aries, I guess as a result of King dragging Delirious to the outside.

WINNER: Delirious in 10:00. A well-executed but fairly basic match that was just there to set up the post-match injury angle.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2010, 08:44 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41106.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DANIEL BRYAN (w/The Miz) vs. MICHAEL TARVER (w/Carlito)

Bryan went to work on Tarver with a surfboard stretch early on, but Tarver smashed him in the ribs to slow Bryan before whipping him hard across the ring. Bryan suddenly came flying out of the corner with a big kick strike as Cole actually said something positive about Bryan working hard despite being sick and having the "ribs injury." Tarver then cut off Bryan and worked him over with a Camel Clutch as they cut to break.

Back from break, Tarver executed an overhead suplex on Bryan as Cole reset the show. "Michael, you said something stupid before the break," Mathews dryly said in a transition to talking about Cole suggesting Tarver has given it his all on NXT despite quitting all of the competitions. Subtly great from Josh. Daniel made a comeback and slapped on an armbar, but Tarver lifted Bryan in the air and dropped him on his back to escape. Tarver then dropped Bryan with a swinging slam on the ribs and he scored the pin for the win.

Post-match: Miz rolled his eyes ringside as Tarver acted shocked that he won. Carlito told Tarver to calm down and act like he's been there before. Of course, he hasn't. Miz then entered the ring and watched as Tarver slowly picked up Bryan for Carlito to deliver the backstabber on Bryan. Miz simply crouched over Bryan and talked trash to him as Bryan sold the ribs. Ringside, Mathews and Cole talked about the second Pros poll next week.

WINNER: Tarver in 7:00. And the beat goes on for Bryan, as he reaches 0-10 status with the latest loss. At least it's half-way interesting to see where this leads with Daniel perhaps finally being booked to make that babyface comeback and "kick out" of the losing streak. (*1/4)

2 -- DAVID OTUNGA vs. R-TRUTH

R-Truth scored some early offense, but was ironically distracted by his own "R-Truth" chant to give Otunga an opening. Otunga landed a big shoulder tackle off the ropes, then a few strikes to the gut before they cut to break with Otunga in control.

Back from break, the story was Otunga getting too cocky on the offensive. Truth then made a comeback and dropped Otunga with a flying spin kick before hitting the spinning forearm blow off the ropes. Truth with the cover for the win. Post-match: Truth danced and Cole tried to act hip as Mathews expectedly mocked Cole for looking like an idiot. No "tool" reference this week, though.

WINNER: Truth in 6:00. Forgettable match with most of the match occurring during the commercial. Otunga still needs time to work on standing out as a performer during the wrestling portion of his act. He doesn't resonate with the audience in the ring yet. He just more time and experience. (*)

Justin Gabriel won the obstacle course challenge, thus getting immunity from elimination next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2010, 09:51 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-6-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_41154.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- PRIMO vs. CARLITO (w/Michael Tarver)

Carlito reluctantly locked up with his young brother early on and Primo took it to him as Carlito sold apprehension. Primo then landed a flying head scissors out of the corner followed by a dropkick. Carlito cut off Primo with a knee to the gut, then took his time thinking things over on whether to follow up. Carlito began a methodical attack, but kept selling apprehension on whether to continue attacking. Primo took an opening to make a comeback, but lost control when he airballed a corner splash running the ropes.

Carlito then slowly snuck up behind Primo and teased the backstabber, but decided to stand there and watch. Primo turned around to stare at Carlito, who took a mic and cut a promo on the fans and Primo for wasting his career. He said the other option is re-uniting and making an impact again. Carlito started to walk off, then Primo spun him around. The crowd popped, thinking Primo was going to pop him, but Primo extended his hand and they shook. The brothers embraced and hugged it out before leaving the ring together. Michael Tarver sold that he was dumbfounded and ref Chioda followed behind with no official decision.

WINNER: No Decision in 6:00. WWE needed another tag team on the Raw brand to feud with Hart Dynasty, so the re-pairing makes sense. We'll see if anything's different this time around with the Colons actually being pushed or if they'll remain on Thursday nights every week. (*)

2 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Chavo flexed in Masters's face early on, which drew laughter from Masters. Chavo tried playing cat and mouse with Masters, who out-smarted Chavo the first time and then the second time. Chavo cut him off getting back into the ring, though, and landed a dropkick taking Masters off the apron to the floor. Back in the ring, Chavo went to work on Masters with submission-based wrestling before Masters rammed him into the corner ringpost. Masters back-dropped Chavo onto his left knee, then dropped Chavo with a sidewalk slam into a backbreaker for a two count. Masters then called for the Masterlock and teased his finisher, but Chavo elbowed out before a full application and hit a DDT for a two count. Chavo then snapped off one of the Three Amigos, but Masters blocked #2 and slapped on the Masterlock. Chavo went down to both knees and gave it up, giving Masters the decisive win.

WINNER: Masters in 5:00. This was actually a decent TV match. Masters has improved in the ring and grown into his babyface role while Chavo continues to be under-utilized. WWE has Chavo slotted in this limited role, but he had a nice program on ECW with C.M. Punk a few years ago and hasn't been utilized in the ring since then. (*1/4)

3 -- Women's champion BETH PHOENIX vs. ROSA MENDES -- non-title match

Beth Phoenix came out first for the Divas match of the show. Rosa Mendes sauntered out next and took the mic to address her recent "split" from Zack Ryder with them now on separate brands. Beth sold that she wasn't amused by this public address, especially when Rosa got in her face and slapped her, so Beth hoisted her up on her shoulders and went on the offensive. Suddenly, Beth missed hard in the corner with a splash attempt and fell to the mat. The ref held Rosa back with Beth selling the injury here. They did some fancy editing to show Rosa trying to follow up moments later, but Beth rolled her up with a small package for the pin and the win. Afterward, Beth hobbled out of the ring and was tended to by medics ringside. Beth then limped away from ringside as Rosa got some focus getting over her heel personality by showing no remorse for Beth's injury.

WINNER: Beth in 3:00. Rosa isn't exactly polished in the ring, with WWE apparently hoping Beth could help guide her in this match. We'll see if the injury limits Beth going forward, but they made the most out of the situation by getting sympathy on Beth and heat on Rosa for showing no remorse. (n/a)

4 -- SHAD GASPARD vs. JTG

JTG used his quickness early on to cut off Shad's attempted power offense. Shad then missed with a big boot and ate the top rope. JTG dropkicked Shad to the floor before coming over the top with a plancha. JTG paraded around the ring celebrating the spot before they cut to a break.

Back from break, Shad was in control working over JTG's back. JTG got the sympathetic "J-T-G" chant from the crowd as Shad worked over JTG with a unique-looking submission hold bending JTG over his knee with a neck vice. JTG fought out, but Shad cut him off and landed a clothesline for a two count. Shad then slapped on an abdominal stretch as Grisham put over Shad's World Hvt. Title aspirations. Shad then dropped the hold and pounded JTG into the mat before doing a big heel pose over JTG's fallen body that drew heat. Shad settled into another ab stretch as the crowd rallied with another "J-T-G" chant.

JTG countered with a hip toss, then caught Shad's knee and tried a roll up, but scored a two count. Grisham provided an update on Beth Phoenix that she's undergoing a medical evaluation and they'll update her status on Smackdown. Nice storyline follow-up. JTG made his full comeback with a dropkick to the back before starting to shake the dice. JTG followed with the mug shot out of the corner before making a cover for a two count. After a back-and-forth exchange, JTG rolled the dice and tried to hit his finisher, but Shad held onto the top rope to block. Shad then followed with an STO center ring and made the pin for the win. Post-match: Shad did his heel pose closing his eyes and soaking in the crowd boos while slowly raising his arms and posing. They closed with a final image of Shad posing.

WINNER: Shad in 10:00. Nice TV main event. Real basic storytelling trying to get sympathy on JTG while emphasizing Shad as a potential lead villain on Smackdown. Mission accomplished. Shad definitely has some charisma with the character change and should be in line for a nice push on Smackdown with so little depth on the brand. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 09 2010, 01:48 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_41170.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results save for the opening segment.

-Matt Hardly limped to the ring. Grisham said they are surprised to see him. Clips aired of what Drew McIntyre did to him in recent weeks, including the interview set DDT last week. Hardy finally began speaking, but before he finished his first sentence, McIntyre interrupted. Hardy said he won't go away unless he makes him. McIntyre said Vince McMahon himself looked him in the eye and told him he is the future of the company. He said that makes him The Chosen One and completely untouchable. Hardy said, "Come down here and we'll see how untouchable you are." McIntyre said he's not getting the message. Hardy shot back, "No I'm not." McIntyre said he'll have to beat his message into him.

McIntyre entered the ring and Hardy jumped him. Two referees tried to pull them apart. After they were separated, McIntyre jumped Hardy from behind. Hardy stumbled to ringside where McIntyre again attacked him. Mike Rotunda, Ricky Steamboat, and Tony Garea were among the agents and referees trying to separate them. It's so strange that announcers don't acknowledge these legends when they're on camera. G.M. Teddy Long came out and suspended McIntyre and then stripped him of his IC Title. McIntyre kicked Hardy in the head again. Long then said, "You know what, Drew? You're fired!" McIntyre was dragged to the back yelling, "I'm untouchable!"

1 -- MVP vs. LUKE GALLOWS (w/C.M. Punk, Serina)

After a clip of last week's tag match with these two. The announcers talked more about McIntyre's firing. At 3:00 Serina distracted MVP just as he went on a flurry of offense. That gave Gallows an opening to surprise MVP with a clothesline. It made MVP look like an idiot because he was about to deliver The Playmaker and stopped simply because Serina crawled up onto the ring apron. There was zero logical reason to not hit the move and go for the cover, or at least execute the move and then go over to get her off the apron. They can solve that by just having her slide into the ring and really create a threat to his execution of the move. Rey Mysterio ran to ringside and gave Punk a DDT, then escaped through the crowd out of sight. That distracted Gallows, and MVP gave him the Playmaker for the win.

WINNER: MVP in 4:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Fine for what it was.

2 -- KELLY KELLY & TIFFANY vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Striker said he likes the LayCool nickname for Kelly Kelly, "Smelly Kelly." At 2:00 Kelly got the hot-tag and went after Layla aggressively. There was an awkward attempt at a handspring elbow by Kelly. Layla blocked it, sort of, and then tagged Tiffany back in. McCool kicked Tiffany from behind and then Layla finished her with a neckbreaker. Vickie applauded at ringside. Striker said McCool's master's degree came into play at the end of the match.

WINNERS: McCool & Layla in 3:00.

3 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- IC Title Tournament Match

A clip aired of Ziggler slamming Hornswoggle a couple weeks ago. Kingston dove onto Ziggler at ringside at 1:00. Kofi threw Ziggler into the ring, but when he entered the ring a second later, Ziggler knocked him to the floor with a knee. Ziggler controlled the match for several minutes, but got frustrated with not being able to finish Kingston. Striker pointed out Ziggler's tendency to get frustrated at this point in matches. Kingston scored a surprise leverage two count, but Ziggler went back on offense afterward. At 11:00 Kingston made a full comeback. He went into his finishing routine including the Boom Drop legdrop, but when he went for the tornado roundkick, Ziggler avoided it. Kingston went for a bodyblock a second later, but Ziggler rolled through for a near fall. Ziggler followed up with an immediate sleeper attempt. Kingston struggled to block it. Ziggler blocked Kingston's mouth, leading to Kingston being vulnerable to the sleeper. Kingston dropped down near the top rope and clotheslined Ziggler, then rebounded immediately with a tornado roundkick "Trouble in Paradise" for the win.

WINNER: Kingston in 12:00 to advance.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Good match.

4 -- CHRISTIAN (w/Heath Slater) vs. CODY RHODES -- IC Title Tournament Match

Striker touted that Christian is a three-time IC Champion. Striker was irritated by Grisham saying Cody hadn't won a major singles title before because he says he hasn't had a chance yet. Grisham said this is his chance. At 2:00 Christian slidekicked Cody at ringside into the security wall. Christian chased after Cody at ringside, but Cody caught him with a kick to the gut and then shoved him into the ringside steps. They cut to a break at 3:00 with Cody in control. They fought back and forth for several minutes. Rhodes hit a moonsault bodypress at 10:00 for a near fall. Christian fired back with a Kill Switch for the win. Slater celebrated with Christian.

WINNER: Christian in 12:00. That sets up Christian vs. Kingston next week. Interesting face vs. face match-up. Will this include a heel turn or a tease of a heel turn for either?

5 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. KANE

Striker called this "an interesting challenge for Jack Swagger." A minute into the match Big Show walked to the ring. Swagger tried to take Kane down from behind, but Kane elbowed out of it. Grisham said Kane may be "amateur proof" after Kane snuffed Swagger's attempt to dominate him with ground action. Swagger showed some frustration. Big Show's music then played. Show joined Striker and Grisham at ringside. With Kane distracted, Swagger pounded him in the corner. Show said he wants to get an up-close look at Swagger's strength. Show said Swagger's wrestling skills are great against wrestlers his size, but those skills don't affect someone of his size. Striker asked Show how he'd get out of the front chancery Swagger had on Kane. Show looked at Striker and said he wouldn't let him get it on him in the first place. Kane caught Swagger leaping off the ropes with a punch to the gut. Show said he flew off the top rope once and he broke the ring. He smiled and said, "Vince made me pay for it." Kane hit a flying clothesline to take control. He signaled for a chokeslam. Swagger elbowed out of it. Swagger shoved Kane into the exposed turnbuckle in the corner several times. The ref warned him to stop, but he didn't, so the ref called for the DQ.

WINNER: Kane via DQ in 5:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- Told its story fine, but not a lot to it. Show was good on commentary.

-Swagger grabbed his title belt and taunted Show with it at ringside. Show stood up. Kane then gave Swagger a big boot. Kane began to disassemble the ringside table. Swagger recovered during that time and threw Kane into the ringpost. Show then chokeslammed Swagger onto the announce table. There wasn't a ton of give at first, then the table collapsed. Show entered the ring and raised the World Title belt into the air and then looked down at Swagger splatted below him.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 12 2010, 01:54 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-10-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41217.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. Unified tag champion DAVID HART SMITH (w/Natalya)

Smith started on the offensive, but missed with a leg drop and Jericho smashed him in the face with a knee strike. Jericho went to work on Smith as the fans tried to rally behind Smith, who made a comeback with power offense. Smith then belly-to-belly tossed Jericho off the ropes before running into an elbow. Jericho tried to charge Smith, but Smith executed a powerslam for a two count. Smith then slapped on a Sharpshooter center ring and Jericho tried to crawl to the ropes to force a break. Jericho got the break, then gave Smith a thumb to the eye to temporarily blind him. Jericho then smashed Smith with the codebreaker for the win.

WINNER: Jericho at 3:05. Jericho and Miz get a Unified tag title shot at the PPV in two weeks. The match was okay. Smith is still rough around the edges working singles with the spotlight on him. He needs more time to develop. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. R-TRUTH (w/Flavor Flav)

Suddenly, Carlito and Primo hit the ring to jump R-Truth to cause a DQ. The Colons set up Truth for the backstabber as Flav said on commentary they broke his man's back. He said if he weighed four more pounds, he would have done something. The Colons then bailed from the ring as Flav dropped his headset to check on Truth. Suddenly, Ted DiBiase was on stage sporting a suit. He handed Primo and Carlito an envelope with their pay-offs for the evening.

WINNER: Truth via DQ at 0:23. That was a random match, but the Colons aligning with DiBiase has some potential. We'll see where this goes. (n/a)

3 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. ZACK RYDER

Bourne landed early offense before taking the Rough Ryder lariat from Ryder for a two count. The Divas ringside began choosing alliances with Alicia (the heel) siding with Ryder and Gail (the babyface) siding with Bourne. Bourne ducked a corner attack before landing a running knee smash to the face. Bourne then sprung to the top-rope looking for Air Bourne as Alicia jumped on the ring apron. Gail yanked her down, though, and Bourne followed with Air Bourne on Ryder for the win. Post-match: Gail and Bourne left the ringside area locking arms. Meanwhile, Alicia tried to console Ryder after the loss. It's maybe not the smartest idea to pair Gail with Bourne with Gail taller than Bourne in heels.

WINNER: Bourne at 2:06. Another too-short singles match with WWE investing time in other segments and not having faith in a wrestling match to hold the audience's attention. Bourne and Ryder got some exposure on Raw rather than Superstars, which is the benefit to the trade-off of a short match. (*)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) -- non-title match

Miz started toying with Kidd early on before kicking him in the head to knock Kidd to the floor. Suddenly, Kidd caught Miz on the apron and executed an innovative flip-over-the-back into a rolling leg trap pinning combination for a quick three count and the win.

WINNER: Kidd at 0:42. Another too-short match, but the innovative finish was worth a star. (*)

5 -- NXT ROOKIES vs. JOHN MORRISON & GOLDUST & YOSHI TATSU & SANTINO MARELLA

Wade Barrett and Goldust started things off with Barrett trying to take it to Goldust before Goldust gained control and tagged in Yoshi. Justin Gabriel then tagged in for the Rookies and battled with Yoshi. They countered each other's moves before Gabriel landed a spin kick and discus punch. Suddenly, David Otunga tagged himself in and started working over Yoshi. Otunga then tagged in Heath Slater while John Morrison tagged in to the vocal screams from young women in the crowd. He's officially over now. Morrison started clearing Rookies before Slater tried a sunset flip, but Morrison rolled out into a knee smash to the face. Morrison then wanted the Starship Pain, but Slater got his knees up to block.

Daniel Bryan then tagged in and missed a knee strike on Morrison. Santino tagged in and tried a small package, but Bryan countered into a small package of his own to score a pin. Cole went nuts acknowledging Bryan winning a match. Bryan pumped his fist as the Rookies celebrated. Skip Sheffield and Darren Young hoisted Bryan in the air to give him shine with the victory. Meanwhile, Santino tried to collect his thoughts after the loss.

WINNER: Team NXT at 3:36. And Daniel Bryan scores his first WWE TV victory with a roll-up on Santino after ten seconds of in-ring action. There's your Trivia note. This was just a hodge-podge match with WWE desperately trying to boost interest in NXT for tomorrow night's show. (*)

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. EDGE (w/Vickie Guerrero) & TED DIBIASE

Orton and DiBiase started things off with Orton running over DiBiase with a hard shoulder tackle early on. DiBiase then took a clothesline, but Edge had blind-tagged into the match and he blind-sided Orton to take control of the match. Edge continued to work over Orton before tagging in DiBiase, who landed kicks and stomps on Orton. They showed Vickie casually sitting ringside observing the action as the heels continued to work over Orton.

[Q9 -- over-run] Orton teased a comeback, but Edge dropped him with a strike to the head and scored a two count. DiBiase then tagged in and grounded Orton before Orton came back with an explosive clothesline. Orton then dropped DiBiase with a big powerslam and started his babyface IED routine. Orton bumped Edge off the ring apron to the announce table, then dropped DiBiase with a fallaway backbreaker. Orton grabbed his head and started to sense it before dropping to the mat to pound his fists to set up the RKO. DiBiase blocked, of course, but Orton back dropped DiBiase over the top rope to the floor. Suddenly, R-Truth walked down the ramp and DiBiase scampered back into the ring to avoid Truth. DiBiase fell right into Orton's hands and Orton nailed an RKO center ring. Orton then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 4:55. Decent main event action (for five minutes, which was really long on this show), they gave DiBiase a main event spotlight, and they continued the DiBiase vs. Truth program that will probably spill over to the PPV. (*1/2)

Post-match: Orton slowly turned his head to look at Vickie Guerrero sitting ringside. Orton did his viper pose on the mat staring at Vickie as Vickie started calling for Edge to wake up. Orton then slowly walked out of the ring and stared down Vickie, who took a mic and told Orton, "Don't do it." Orton was within a few feet before Vickie warned him. She freaked out before announcing, "I resign! I resign!" Edge then came to his feet and Orton dropped Edge with an RKO on the floor right as Edge came to his feet. Vickie suddenly took off running as Orton watched her disappear from ringside up the ramp and to the backstage area. Orton returned to the ring and posed in the ring before staring down at Edge, who sold being out cold on the floor. After a replay of the ending, they showed Edge sprawled out on the floor and Orton staring down at him in the ring to close the show.

CLOSING THOUGHT: This was certainly a newsworthy Raw with some strong character development and solid PPV build-up. The short matches were bothersome with WWE trying to pack a lot of content into one show. Hm...sounds like the promotion that runs out of Orlando. Overall, this episode made Raw feel "can't miss" again, which has been missing since WrestleMania.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2010, 02:13 pm
WWE NXT Results: 5-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41248.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and eliminations.

Michael Tarver and Daniel Bryan were eliminated at the start of the show, a decision made by WWE management.

1 -- HEATH SLATER vs. WADE BARRETT

The bell sounded and the Rookies locked up as Cole recapped Michael Tarver and Daniel Bryan eliminated by WWE management at the top of the show. Slater and Barrett took the fight to the outside where Barrett took control of the match. Back in the ring, Slater made a comeback and landed a series of clotheslines before hitting a faceplant for a two count. Slater tried a top-rope splash, but Barrett caught Slater in mid-air and smashed Slater into the mat with his bodyslam finisher for the pin and the win. Cue up Chris Jericho's theme music since he still doesn't have his own theme music after winning the competition weeks ago. Barrett, with a bloody lip, got his shine post-match. Good look for the bare-knuckle fighter with some blood on his mouth.

WINNER: Barrett in 5:00. Okay, but forgettable match. One of the biggest problems with the NXT show has been the lack of purpose for the Rookie vs. Rookie matches. No one believes the outcomes are going to influence how the Pros are going to vote. It's mere lip service from the announcers. (*)

2 -- SKIP SHEFFIELD (w/William Regal) vs. DARREN YOUNG

Cole and Mathews picked up their regular argument over Cole knocking the Rookies earlier in the season and now everyone's best friend. They put over Young for being the most-improved Rookie on the show. Skip took control early on as Regal watched intently. Skip then missed with a splash off the ropes and Young made a comeback as the crowd sat quietly. Mathews mocked Cole's "vintage," prompting Cole to suggest there's a Michael Cole Bingo game. Skip then cut off Young and hit his seated jawbreaker finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Skip in 4:00. Another basic match with the crowd uninterested. Unfortunately, the NXT Rookies just aren't over. WWE has done the bare minimum to present a compelling program trying to introduce new talent. If NXT continues to a second season, they'll have to re-think this show's presentation. (3/4*)

3 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Gabriel started on the offensive with a round of dropkicks and flying offense. He attempted a springboard e move, but Otunga blocked by dropping Gabriel gut-first across the top rope. Otunga went to work on Gabriel and slapped on an abdominal stretch. The crowd came to life rallying behind Gabriel, who made a comeback and scored a two count. Otunga then landed a weak-looking kick to the gut on the apron before dropping Gabriel with a uranage in the ring. Otunga with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Otunga in 3:00. Otunga needs a lot of polish in the ring. He works like he doesn't want to potato his opponent, but he doesn't know how to make his offense look real. This was another filler match and the crowd sat idly again. There's just no emotional connection between audience and Rookies. (1/2*)

Striker then went to the Pros break down and hyped the Pros Poll to come. #1 is Wade Barrett. #2 is David Otunga. Otunga gloated, of course. #3 is Justin Gabriel. #4 is Heath Slater. So, it's down to Darren Young and Skip Sheffield. Striker called for Young and Skip to step forward. Striker did the big build-up before revealing #5 is Darren Young, meaning Skip Sheffield is #6 and he's gone. Young smiled while Skip stared blankly ahead in shock. Skip said he's been misguided for the past 12 weeks and the people have not seen the real Skip Sheffield. Skip said William Regal isn't to blame and he should have listened from the beginning. He said he will be back. Skip then turned and walked off to the ramp and disappeared to the back.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2010, 02:13 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-13-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_41294.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL vs. BELLA TWINS

Jillian and Maryse tagged in and out working over Nikki early on before Brie took a hot tag and cleaned house on Maryse with a flurry of clotheslines. Jillian entered the picture and the action broke down. In the confusion, Maryse hit the French Kiss DDT for the pin and the win. Post-match: Jillian held up Brie for Maryse to do some trash-talking before Divas champion Eve stormed the ring. She attempted to make a save, but Maryse cut her off. Eve then reversed a whip to the ropes and took out Jillian while Maryse bailed to the outside. Eve stood in the ring calling after Maryse, who hightailed it up the ramp to the stage to taunt Eve.

WINNERS: Maryse & Jillian in 4:00. Short, basic match setting up the post-match to advance the Maryse vs. Eve feud. It looks like the match will be on the next PPV, but you never know. It could be on this week's Raw or the Raw after the PPV. (3/4*)

2 -- KOZLOV vs. RYAN MITCHELL

Kozlov dominated early and often as the announcers talked up Kozlov's destruction. Kozlov then finished off Mitchell with the Iron Curtain for the decisive pin and the win. After the finish, they piped in some odd crowd noise with a mix of abnormally loud noise for a Kozlov match. It wasn't even clear if it was babyface or heel noise. Just noise.

WINNER: Kozlov in 2:00. Squash. The announcers were able to talk him up and that was about it. It was fine, but didn't stick out on the show. (n/a)

3 -- VANCE ARCHER & CURT HAWKINS vs. MATTHEW BUSCH & JAMES WHITE

Archer and Hawkins tagged in and out working over the enhancement talent. Archer hit a big leg-sweep reverse DDT before Hawkins came off the top with a flying elbow smash. Hawkins, who Striker described as a jaded wrestling star, kicked the losers out of the ring after securing the win.

Post-match: Archer took the mic and told the audience to pay attention. Hawkins then took the mic and said he's a future main-eventer. He said Archer is an unstoppable monster and they focused tight on Archer's face as he did an evil look. Hawkins said they've been given 30-day contracts simply to "make an impact."

WINNERS: Archer & Hawkins in 3:00. Ol' Hawkins is all grown up now. He doesn't have that "babyface look" trying to work heel where no one takes him seriously as a threat in a fight. In the middle of this, WWE is apparently re-emphasizing tag team wrestling, as evidenced by the Colons reuniting on last week's Superstars and a new tag team debuting on this week's Superstars. The Hart Dynasty needs a team to feud with, so it's good to see WWE developing two new teams the last two weeks. (n/a)

4 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Masters knocked Ziggler to the floor early on, then Ziggler regrouped, only to have Masters knock him out of the ring again. Very interesting "sports-like discussion" between Grisham and Striker on why Ziggler was trying to punch and kick to score offense when he has an amateur wrestling background. Grisham surmised perhaps Masters had it scouted. That's unlikely, kayfabe, but the back-and-forth discussion by the announcers really enhanced the action here. It was Striker being efficient with the points he tries to make that typically become overbearing on PPV broadcasts. They cut to break with Masters in control.

After the Buzz Aldrin and Mark Henry spot aired, they returned from break with Masters grounding Ziggler on the mat working his left shoulder. Ziggler tried to break free, but Masters knocked him to the floor yet again. This time, Masters tried to follow, but Ziggler popped Masters with a kick to the face as he was leaning through the ropes. Masters made it back into the ring at nine, then Ziggler went to work on Masters with an aggressive offensive attack.

At 10:00, Masters crawled to a corner looking for a breather, then he landed a chop from his knees. Ziggler came back with kicks to the knees, though, and landed a Rocker Dropper ala Billy Gunn. Ziggler made a cover, but Masters kicked out. Ziggler then sat down on a half-Camel Clutch, but Masters powered out into an electric chair dropping Ziggler on his back. Masters then catapulted Ziggler into the top turnbuckle and started making his full comeback. Masters then missed with a corner splash and Ziggler rolled him up from behind with a small package for a two count. Masters came back with a sidewalk slam, but Ziggler got a foot on the bottom rope for a rope break.

Masters called for the Masterlock, but Ziggler rolled to the apron and caught Masters with a chinbreaker. Ziggler then tried to slap on the sleeperhold, but Masters fought him off and countered into a Masterlock. He didn't get a full application, though, and Ziggler sent Masters into the corner turnbuckle. Masters, dazed, walked backwards into the middle of the ring where Ziggler nailed the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win. After they replayed the finish, they showed Ziggler standing on the ramp fully satisfied with himself after the win. End show.

WINNER: Ziggler in 18:00. Nice match. The finish was well done with the flurry of counters and reversals before Ziggler hit the Zig-Zag for the win. The right man went over with Ziggler picking up a needed TV win. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2010, 02:15 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 5-13-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_41297.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TAYLOR WILDE (w/Sarita) vs. TARA

Taz said he's never put his career on the line like Tara did. After a plug for Dixie Carter's Twitter page, Tenay announced that at Sacrifice, Rob Terry will defend the Global Championship against Orlando Jordan, plus Abyss faces Wolfe with the Hogan's ring and Chelsea's "services" for a month at stake. Taz called out Wolfe for a chauvinistic move putting Chelsea's services on the line. Tara missed a flip legdrop into the ring. Wilde dove at Tara off the middle rope. Tara kicked her in mid-air and scored the extremely anticlimactic pin. Tara beat down Wilde with her knee brace afterward.

WINNER: Tara in 2:00.

2 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. BRIAN KENDRICK

Williams wore the X Division Title belt to the ring. Does TNA have no authority to take the belt back, especially when he sets it at ringside during his match. Williams said Kendrick is both crazy and a loser. He said he hasn't seen him win a match, so he doesn't deserve a shot at his title, therefore it's a non-title match. Taz said he's not champion, so of course it's a non-title match. They continue to draw attention to the ridiculous decision TNA management made to strip him of the title because of the volcano stopping flights from Europe, giving fans reason to side with the heel Williams. Kaz said he won his title even though Williams has a legitimate gripe. Taz pointed out that the belt wasn't that far away. Kaz decided to go get his belt. Williams saw him coming and grabbed the belt. That gave Kendrick a chance to schoolboy him for the win. Williams immediately grabbed his belt again. Kaz stood outside the ring and pointed at Williams, failing to go take what is his, although even he believes it's not really fair to Williams that he got stripped, so it's good that there's a clear cut feeling of who to side with here... or not.

WINNER: Kendrick in 2:00.

3 -- THE YOUNG BUCKS vs. MATT & MORGAN

Matt Morgan isn't calling himself "Matt & Morgan," but I'm suggesting he should publicly as it'd fit his current gimmick of referring to himself as "we" and "us" perfectly. He gave big boots to both Bucks, then grabbed the mic and said, "Hogan, does it look like we're playing?" He said he's going to keep his promise and begin the bloodshed. He then threw Buck #1 to the floor and leaned him against the ringpost. Samoa Joe came out as the referee pulled Buck #1 away from the ringpost. Joe entered the ring and went after Mogan. Morgan went for a big boot, but Joe moved and then gave him an enzuigiri. Joe then gave Morgan the Muscle Buster. Steam them blew out of Joe's ears as he stared at the camera and huffed and puffed. Good to see Morgan's reign of bullying terror has been neutralized already.

WINNER: No contest in 1:00.

-Kevin Nash, Eric Young, and Scott Hall walked out with their briefcase. He opened it revealing a tag team title shot.

4 -- MATT & MORGAN vs. KEVIN NASH & SCOTT HALL -- TNA Tag Team Title Match

Nash made the cover and scored a pin to earn the tag titles for he and Hall.

WINNERS: Hall & Nash to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

5 -- TEAM 3D vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. INK INC. vs. BEER MONEY INC.

This felt like an absolute Iron Man match by the four minute mark relative to the length of the previous four "matches." At 7:00 the Guns went on a flurry of offense and cleared the ring. Shelley slingshot clotheslined Roode at ringside. Team 3D double-teamed Jesse Neal, including a top rope clothesline. Shannon Moore made the save. Neal knocked Devon out of the ring and then ate a slap by Brother Ray. Moore, though, caught Ray with a neckbreaker, known as the "Mooregasm," and then Neal hit a spear for the win. Taz said the student just took the teacher to school. He called it a massive victory. Moore bled pretty heavily from the earlobe. He must've lost an earring. He deserved that, just like that rookie female cop in season five of "The Shield."

WINNER: Ink Inc. in 8:00.

6 -- ORLANDO JORDAN vs. TYSON TOMKO

Tomko gave Jordan a spinebuster and went for a "ground and pound" style attack. Jordan slipped away and swept Tomko to the mat. Taz touted Jordan's amateur wrestling takedown technique and boxing background. Tomko gave Jordan a gorilla press into an overhead back suplex. Jordan fired back with a high dropkick. Jordan countered a Tomko slam attempt with a guillotine choke for the win. The ref, Earl Hebner, decided to stop the match because Tomko was supposedly knocked out even though it didn't look at all like he was KO'd. They tried to do make this look like an MMA fight, but it wasn't smooth to say the least.

WINNER: Jordan in 3:00 via ref stoppage.

-Bischoff ordered Tara to wrestle again. He said her attitude lately is "piss poor." He said she's now disrespecting her opponents and the referee earlier. Bischoff said he was tired of her and didn't want to hear another word. She stormed to the back.

7 -- SARITA vs. TARA

Sarita met Tara on the ramp as she made her ring entrance. At 2:00 Sarita tried to yank off Tara's knee brace. The ref tried to yank her away, but in the process Sarita swung her arms and hit the ref. Tara then surprised Sarita with the knee brace for the KO and the win.

WINNER: Tara in 3:00.

8 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. JEFF HARDY vs. A.J. STYLES

Hardy and RVD chatted like pals in the ring as Styles yapped in the face of a fan in the front row Scott Steiner-style. Tenay encouraged fan voting. Taz said not only will those votes influence Bischoff and Hogan, but there's a Championship Committee involved. Why can't they just explain this in a little more precise detail? What role do Bischoff and Hogan have relative to the this committee, and who is on the committee and what are their qualifications to make these decisions? Hardy kicked RVD in the opening minute, knocking him to the floor. Styles applied the figure-four on RVD at 3:00. Hardy broke it up with a legdrop. Hardy climbed to the top rope, but Styles popped up and knocked Hardy to the floor. Mr. Anderson showed up at ringside and attacked Styles. RVD went for a top rope kick, but the ref got in the way and went down. RVD kicked Anderson at ringside, giving Styles a chance to recover. Styles then flip dove onto Hardy, RVD, and Anderson at ringside at 4:00. Styles DDT'd RVD on the floor, then threw him into the ring. He covered RVD and pushed off the bottom rope with his feet for "added leverage" (it looked like it took away leverage based on how far he had to strain to reach the bottom rope with his feet) and scored the pin. Anderson mockingly apologized at ringside afterward.

WINNER: Styles in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Kind of a mess, and just too short for a three-way match between stars of this level.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2010, 02:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_41326.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- KOFI KINGSTON vs. CHRISTIAN- INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Striker said the IC Title has changed hands three times in Buffalo. I think, for the most part, the fans were more in favor of Kofi live, especially as the match got going. The men struggled to get an advantage, but Christian dove onto Kingston on the outside after Kofi missed a dive. Both men were down after that move, and they went to break about two minutes in.

Christian was attempting to wear down Kingston with a chin-lock out of break. He settled into another rear chin-lock after Kingston fought out of the previous one. He got out again and did his flip kick in the corner. What would Scott Norwood think of that kick?, asked Striker. I know some friends who would like to meet up with Striker in a dark alley after that comment. High dropkick from Kingston. Jumping clothesline found the mark. Christian tripped him up during the Boom Drop and the men traded roll-ups. Leapfrog was countered by Christian, and he ended up giving an electric chair to Kofi. Another series of roll-ups for two. Cross-body off the top by Christian missed, but Kofi hit one of his own for a near-fall. Boom Drop found the mark, however, his finisher was countered into a reverse DDT for two. Killswitch was countered and Kingston landed his flip roll-through for two. Christian appeared to have his lip busted open at this point. Christian went for a sunset flip, but Kofi rolled through, got to his feet, and hit the Trouble in Paradise for the win.

WINNER: Kingston, at 12:02. I wonder if the commercial break padded the match out, because I had it pegged right at 10 minutes when I was there live. Just as good a match as I remember.

As Kingston celebrated with the title, the dapper Drew McIntyre made his slow walk to the ring. Long warned him that he'd have security escort him out of the building, but that didn't stop Drew. McIntyre gave an envelope with a letter in it to Long. Teddy read it silently, then tossed it down in anger. He told Kingston he was sorry and that he'd have to take the title. Kofi wasn't having it, but in the end, he gave it up. Crowd was not happy with the decision by Long here. The Smackdown GM handed the belt back over to Drew McIntyre, who left with his possession as Kingston seethed in the ring. McIntyre taunted Kofi by posing with the belt twice, once at the bottom of the ramp and again at the top.

2- SHAD GASPARD vs. JESSE GUYVER

Headlock take-over by Shad, as Guyver wasn't getting anything in. Sunset flip by the jobber, but Gaspard didn't fall for it. STO ended things.

WINNER: Gaspard, at 1:38. Impressive enough squash.

3- MVP & JTG vs. THE DUDEBUSTERS

Apparently, the Dudebusters are goofballs. Back-body drop by JTG on Baretta. The guys sitting behind us did not like the Dudebusters. Apparently, neither did MVP and JTG, as they clotheslined the duo over the top rope. Croft tripped JTG up behind the ref's back and Baretta landed a running knee to the face. The Dudebusters worked over JTG on the heel side of the ring. Frequent tags by the heels. MVP begged JTG for a tag, but Baretta grabbed his leg. JTG kicked him aside and tagged MVP. Croft tried to break up a pin, but MVP moved and he hit Baretta. Play of the Day on Baretta for MVP to get the win.

WINNERS: MVP & JTG, at 4:21. Not a good sign that they threw JTG back into a tag-team after breaking away from Shad.

3 -BETH PHOENIX vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA- HANDICAP MATCH FOR THE WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP

No tags here from McCool and Layla, even after Striker said that's how it would have to go. Phoenix fended off the Divas, but they went after her injured knee. Phoenix put both Layla and McCool on her shoulders for a Samoan Drop. Beth grabbed the knee right afterward. Cover on Layla for only two. Michelle and Beth knocked heads out of the corner and McCool had to bounce herself around to get knocked out of the ring. It was a bit absurd. Layla was able to make the cover on Beth to get the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 2:06. Shock is the best way to describe how the crowd greeted this result.

4- KANE vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Kane grabbed Chavo by the throat for a chokeslam, but Chavo got out of it. Grisham mentioned Kane beating Chavo at Wrestlemania a few years back in record time. To the top went Chavo, but he was sent to the outside with a punch. Back in the ring, a little more offense from Kane before finally finishing Chavo off with a chokeslam.

WINNER: Kane, at 1:27.

5- REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK

Rey kicked at the legs of Punk, then slid under Punk. However, he didn't get to his feet for some reason, allowing Punk to kick him in the head. That was a bit awkward. Mysterio landed on his feet on an aerial attack aimed at Punk, but Punk clotheslined him into the barricade. More after the break.

Punk was stretching Mysterio's arm and back out of break. Punk bonked his head in the corner and he hopped to the top rope, but Punk kicked his leg out and Mysterio got hung up on the top rope. Punk brought him back down and went for a pin, getting two. Abdominal stretch by Punk, who was called one of the best pure strikers in WWE. I think the Undertaker (and Michael Cole) would have something to say about that. Punk tossed Mysterio out of the ring under the bottom rope. Springboard clothesline for two by Punk. Bulldog by Mysterio and both men were down. Mysterio got a boot up in the corner and landed a springboard seated senton. Punk fired back soon after and catapulted Mysterio into the corner. Mysterio hopped on Punk's shoulders and set up for the 619. He dropkicked an advancing Luke Gallows and Punk rolled Rey up for two. Kick to the head by Rey. 619 connected, then he landed the springboard splash. He covered Punk but got up when he saw the masked man get into the ring. The person took of the mask and it was Serena. The real masked man attacked Rey from behind, drawing a DQ.

WINNER: Mysterio, via DQ, at 10:36. Fine match, but pretty formula. Hopefully saving the good stuff for Over the Limit.

The attack continued post match, with Gallows, the masked man and Punk all hitting their finisher on Rey. The Society took an unconscious Rey, put one hand over his heart and one hand in the air, as Punk recited the Straight Edge pledge. Punk patted Rey on the head as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2010, 01:32 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-17-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41382.shtml) Brought to you in condensed version and commercial free from the Warlord of CLOW :D

1 -- EDGE vs. CHRISTIAN

Christian maintained control early on as Edge continued to sell shock he was actually facing his former friend and tag partner. Lawler said they're going to try to prove who's the superior wrestler. Yes, the word "wrestler" used on a WWE broadcast. Edge then slapped Christian across the face, leading to a game of cat and mouse that gave Edge control. Edge thought he was going to score a count-out, but Christian ran back into the ring at nine. Edge then played to the crowd, which drew a mixed reaction, and he went to work on Christian's injured left shoulder. Edge then taunted Christian before landing a kick to the shoulder. Cole talked about Edge and Christian breaking in together in the late 1990s as Edge continued to work over Christian.

Christian teased a comeback at 7:30 with open-hand slaps to the face before going up top. Edge cut him off, though, and they took the fight up top. Christian blocked a superplex and kicked Edge in the face before landing a Tornado DDT for a two count. Christian then landed a flying forearm smash and rallied the crowd before running into a back elbow smash. Edge tried to follow, but Christian pancaked him. He then went to the second rope for a missile dropkick on Edge for a two count. Christian tried to follow with the Killswitch, but Edge blocked. Christian retained control by slingshotting Edge across the top rope before going up top for a headbutt attempt. Edge moved, though, and followed up with an implant DDT center ring for a close two count.

Edge tried a running kick strike at 10:30, but Christian ducked and grabbed Edge's leg into a roll up for a two count. Edge then kicked Christian in the corner and then teased the Spear, but Christian blocked with a kick to the face. Back and forth they went before Edge finally had Christian in the corner. He missed with a spear again and Christian hid the pendulum kick. He then nailed a flying European uppercut and teased the Killswitch, but the shoulder issue flared up and he couldn't hit the move. Edge took advantage by ramming Christian shoulder-first into the ringpost. He immediately bounced off the ropes and hit the Spear off the ropes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Edge at 12:09. Excellent TV match. Just a great exchange between two wrestlers who know each other so well and can work a good match together in their sleep. Well done. (***)

Post-match: Randy Orton appeared on the Titantron congratulating Edge on the win. Orton said he's not sure why Christian is out there because that's not who Edge is actually facing tonight. Cue up The Undertaker's theme music. Orton smirked and Edge shook his head in disbelief. Taker then made his slow entrance to the ring, marking the first non-Canadian on the show. And, again, the brand split is watered down. Or, perhaps Taker is omni-brand. Edge was on the floor during Taker's entrance selling disbelief over this. He eventually stepped onto the ring apron very tentatively.

2 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. EDGE

The ref called for the bell and Edge refused to enter the ring. The ref reached a ten count as Edge simply dropped to the floor saying he's having no part of this. Christian then snuck up behind Edge and rolled him back into the ring. Taker took advantage by planting Edge into the mat with a chokeslam. Cue up Taker's music and he walked off satisfied with his damage inflicted for the evening. Edge still has to pick Orton's opponent tonight.

WINNER: Taker via count-out at 0:37. (n/a)

3 -- TED DIBIASE, JR. (w/Virgil) vs. YOSHI TATSU

The crowd was hot ringside with a "Virgil, Virgil" chant. Yoshi landed rapid-fire offense early on before making a cover for a one count. DiBiase then powered Yoshi into the corner and landed a forearm smash before executing a slingshot suplex across the top rope. Yoshi came back with a spin kick out of the corner after blocking elbow smashes, then hit a kick strike as DiBiase was seated on the mat. Yoshi tried a roundhouse kick, but DiBiase blocked and hit Dream Street for the pin and the win.

WINNER: DiBiase at 3:08. Okay match that was positioned as a come-down match in the middle of a commercial-free show. Yoshi had a good amount of offense so it wasn't a total squash. (*)

4 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. BRET HART -- United States Title match -- No DQ match

The bell sounded and Miz bailed from the ring. Miz took the mic and said he forgot to tell Hart he doesn't trust him very much because he knows Hart Dynasty is ready to come on down and try to interfere. He said he paid a few guys to neutralize them. Out came Kozlov and William Regal. An American, a Canadian, a Russian, and an Englishman involved here. Suddenly, HD came through the crowd and a brawl was on ringside. Then, Chris Jericho snuck in the back door and joined Miz in the ring. Natalya then slipped into the ring and stood next to Hart. Jericho told Natalya to get lost, but she slapped him across the face. Miz tried to grab Natalya, but Hart smacked Miz. Jericho cut off Hart, though, and started choking him on the mat. Suddenly, D.H. Smith re-entered the ring and clotheslined Jericho out of the ring. Miz dropped Smith, though. And they were back to Miz vs. Hart.

Hart slowly pulled himself up and Miz stomped him in the gut before teasing the Sharpshooter. Miz then turned around and ate a springboard dropkick by Tyson Kidd. HD followed with a running Hart Attack on Miz before Hart grabbed Miz by the legs. He teased the Sharpshooter and slapped it on center ring. Miz quickly tapped out, giving Hart the win and the U.S. Title in Canada.

Post-match: Hart grabbed the U.S. Title and almost fell on the turnbuckles trying to celebrate. HD then helped Hart celebrate in the corner as Hart had a big moment in the ring. Nice moment. As the Harts wrapped up the celebration, Cole suddenly inserted a line that he thought Hart should have just stayed home. He said it took the entire Hart Family to beat Mr. McMahon. Cole said this isn't right, while Lawler enjoyed the moment on commentary. Cole channeling NXT here.

WINNER: Hart at 3:55 to capture the U.S. Title. They went the full bag of tricks route here trying to have as many moving parts as possible before setting up the finish with Hart slapping on the Sharpshooter. It was definitely a feel-good moment with the additional subtext that it seems like they're going to retire the U.S. Title. We'll see where this goes. (n/a)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2010, 01:32 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-17-10

Continued from previous post...

5 -- Women's champion LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL & MARYSE vs. Divas champion EVE & BELLA TWINS

More Smackdown brand cross-overs with LayCool out for a six-Divas tag match. They replayed Layla winning the Women's Title on Smackdown, then Michelle McCool and Layla high-fived each other in the ring. Maryse then came out as their tag partner and WWE confirmed Maryse vs. Eve for the Divas Title at the PPV. As for tonight, Eve has the Bella Twins. This moved along pretty well with some back-and-forth action. After the action broke down, Maryse hit the French Kiss hair-flipping DDT on one of the Bellas for the pin and the win. Afterward, Eve tried to get to Maryse, but Maryse bailed and Eve was left having to get to Maryse at the PPV.

WINNERS: Team Maryse at 4:05. An extended-length (at four minutes) Divas match on Raw. The action had a good pace and kept moving before eventually putting the final touches on setting up Maryse vs. Eve at the PPV on Sunday. (*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion JACK SWAGGER vs. RANDY ORTON -- non-title match

Swagger bailed to the outside after a back-and-forth exchange and drew Orton to the floor to accept a blow into the announce table. Swagger then became distracted by loud "R-K-O" chants that allowed Orton to pull Swagger back into the ring. Orton teased the horizonal spike DDT, but Swagger reached his feet and blasted Orton with an aggressive amateur wrestling takedown. Swagger then followed with two running Vader bombs out of the corner and Orton rolled to the outside selling his mid-section. Orton reached the apron at eight and Swagger bumped him to the floor into the announce table. Back in the ring, Orton tried to come back with right hands, but Swagger ducked and hit a belly-to-belly suplex.

Swagger tried another running Vader Bomb, but Orton popped to his feet and kicked Swagger in the gut on the way down. Orton made a full comeback and put Swagger on the middle rope to hit the big horizontal spike DDT. Orton then got that look in his eyes and started stalking Swagger for the RKO. Suddenly, Edge hit the ring and went after Orton, causing the match to be thrown out. Orton fought off Edge momentarily, then hit the RKO on Swagger. Orton got up, then Edge dropped Orton with the spear. Man, I'm upset if I'm Undertaker. Edge stood tall and walked out of the ring in control going into the PPV vs. Orton one-on-one.

WINNER: No Contest at 7:17. Another big singles match given away between Raw and Smackdown wrestlers. Swagger had plenty of offense, but took the final blow yet again. Meanwhile, Orton was KO'ed to end the bit. And, Edge was flattened earlier by Undertaker, whose chokeslam apparently isn't big enough of a deal to take a wrestler out for the length of a show. Some really short-sighted booking here. (*1/2)

7 -- EVAN BOURNE & GAIL KIM vs. ZACK RYDER & ALICIA FOX

Bourne and Ryder started things off before the Divas tagged in and exchanged offense. Ryder helped out Alicia behind the ref's back as the announcers plugged all of Aldrin's accolades. The announcers also used every space-related cliche in the book. This match seemed to be setting up for Bourne hitting Air Bourne...but they pulled a switch with Gail hitting the Eat Defeat finisher on Alicia for the pin and the win. Post-match: Buzz joined Gail and Bourne in the ring to celebrate as Cole went "over the limit" with the cliches, according to Lawler. Buzz then did a Moonwalk, with this show completely off the rails thanks to the commentary. Cole threw in a Freebirds reference for good measure.

WINNERS: Bourne & Gail at 3:24. There was a time when the segment before the "main event segment/match" was typically just the dead zone segment of the show. Now, it's the segment where the show completely falls apart where you're either laughing or crying at the absurdity of what's happening before they try to recover and get the train back on the tracks. (*)

8 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match

Sheamus knocked Cena to the outside early on and beat him up on the floor before taking the beating back into the ring. With Sheamus dominating, Cole stacked the deck against Cena on commentary by noting Batista will be fresh going into the PPV after destroying Henry earlier in the show. Cena then made a comeback and knocked Sheamus to the floor. Back in the ring, Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus countered with a backbreaker across his knee for a two count. Cena then came back with a sidewalk slam after reversing a whip to the ropes. Back and forth they went before Sheamus cracked Cena across the face with a knee that knocked Cena to the outside. Cena tried to pull himself back into the ring, then Sheamus airballed a knee smash. Cena had a flurry and teased the big Cena Comeback, but Sheamus countered the running bulldog into a kick to the face. They went to the floor again where Sheamus sent Cena face-first into the announce table. Cole reset the action, noting Bret Hart is the new U.S. champion. Back in the ring, Sheamus made a pin attempt for a nearfall. Sheamus played to the crowd and he received a mild face pop. It's been a mixed crowd for Cena and Sheamus with the fans vocal. After Sheamus took his time, Cena made his Cena Comeback and dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the AA, but Sheamus held onto the top rope.

Suddenly, Batista snuck in the back door and dropped Cena with a spinebuster to have the match thrown out. Batista hit another spinebuster, then a third. He teased the Batistabomb, but then dropped Cena on the mat and slapped on his new chicken wing submission as Cena writhed in pain. "Say you quit! Say it!" Batista shouted at Cena. Cena did his big determination face as Batista kept the hold on even tighter. Ref Jack Doane audibly said, "Five seconds" while feigning an attempt to break the hold. Batista kept the hold locked in, then the show went off the air...amazingly...five seconds later with Cena still trapped in the hold.

WINNER: No Contest at 9:19. As predicted on the Livecast, there was no way they were having a clean finish to this, especially if WWE goes with a Cena vs. Sheamus feud after Over the Limit. The whole point was to stack the deck against Cena for the PPV to presumably set up Cena making the big comeback and overcoming the odds to make Batista say he quits. Overall, too many non-finishes or TNA-style run-ins on this show after the Christian vs. Edge opener. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 19 2010, 01:54 pm
WWE NXT Results: 5-18-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41412.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results, a confrontation and the elimination.

1 -- WADE BARRETT (w/Chris Jericho) vs. DARREN YOUNG

Young tried to tackle Barrett early on and land a ground attack, but Barrett rolled to the outside and lured Young into a trap on the floor. Back in the ring, Young absorbed punishment before nailing right hand blows to mount a comeback. Young then went up top for a high-risk move, but Barrett crotched Young on the top turnbuckle. Barrett then took Young on his shoulders and landed his finishing bodyslam for the pin and the win. They cut to Punk on stage and Punk had a look of "well, that sucked" as his Rookie taking the loss. Mathews suggested it was the dagger for Darren Young.

WINNER: Barrett in 3:00. Decent match with Young showing some fire to try to stand out. Barrett continues to quietly get the job done and WWE is obviously building him up as a threat to babyfaces on the Raw or Smackdown roster. (*)

Matt Striker was joined by Daniel Bryan and Michael Tarver, who were both eliminated "controversially" last week. Bryan and Tarver were dressed in street clothes here. Cole was beside himself with Bryan's presence. Striker fed to a video package on both of their eliminations last week. Back in the ring, Striker said both of them have had a week to absorb what happened. Tarver said he was told, like everyone else, that it would be judged by a Pros Poll, but he was eliminated by WWE management. "Who exactly is WWE management?" He said they're a group of easily-intimidated pencil pushers. He said they didn't have the courtesy to tell him he was eliminated. Tarver said he was told by WWE that the goal was to stand out and be different. He said he gave the fans something different and he knew exactly what he was doing the whole time.

Striker then introduced Daniel Bryan to a decent reaction. Bryan said the truth is he was eliminated by WWE management and not the Pros. He said when he came to WWE, he heard the nightmares about politics, Vince McMahon liking big guys, and WWE pushing wrestlers they made themselves, regardless of whether a wrestler can actually wrestle and connect with the audience. He said he was not invented by the WWE machine and you would think WWE, as a publicly-traded company, would want to utilize the wrestlers who can make the most money for the company. Bryan said he is the best person for this job. Striker said Bryan essentially eliminated himself with his comments.

Bryan said everyone knows how good he is in the ring. Cole kept complaining on commentary. Bryan said Jericho, Christian, and Regal know how good he is. Bryan said even The Miz knows he's better than him. "You're better than me?" Miz said from the stage. He called him an indy star who hasn't done anything in WWE. Miz ranted and raved before asking Bryan what he's done in WWE. Bryan told Miz that if he thinks he's so good, then come down to the ring and prove it. Striker tried to interrupt Bryan, so Bryan told him one thing he won't miss about NXT is him interrupting him.

Bryan then turned his attention to Michael Cole. He called him a parrot. He said Cole just repeats what McMahon says in his headset about him having no charisma and having no personality. He walked out of the ring and approached the announce table as Cole stood up from his seat. Bryan started bullying Cole and he knocked his headset off. Bryan called him a poor man's replacement for J.R. Bryan cornered Cole before knocking him down to the ground. Refs then intervened to pull Bryan back. Bryan was pulled away and Cole recovered as they cut to break with Bryan having an evil smile on his face.

2 -- HEATH SLATER (w/Christian) vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Matt Hardy)

After some early offense, Cole decided to leave the broadcast position and head to the back to "deal with this." The camera stayed with him as he walked away, missing Gabriel's attempted splash on the floor. Back in the ring, Slater landed a spinebuster center ring for a close two count. Mathews said the Pros Poll coming up could be just as close as the last nearfall. Nice. Gabriel then knocked down Slater in the corner and went up top. He nailed the big 450 Splash and scored the pin for the win. Apparently Gabriel doesn't get music for the win. After a delay, Hardy's music hit to mark Gabriel's win. With four babyfaces in the ring, Christian stood over Slater to help him regroup before Gabriel showed sportsmanship shaking hands with Slater. They replayed the finish before Christian grabbed Gabriel to shake his hand. Christian shook hands with Hardy to adhere to the Code of Honor. And now everyone's going out for ice cream after the Little League game.

WINNER: Gabriel in 3:00. Not a particularly memorable match with the focus on Cole and the post-fight happenings with Bryan. Gabriel's finisher is certainly over, which is a good sign. Slater, meanwhile, has lost momentum since the surprise victory over Chris Jericho a few weeks ago. (*)

Ringside: The five remaining NXT Rookies were assembled in front of the ring. David Otunga was there for the first time on the show. Striker did the build-up to the revelation by noting the winner of NXT has earned a championship match on PPV. Striker said the time has come for the new Pros Poll. #1 is Wade Barrett again. #2 is David Otunga again. #3 is Heath Slater, who moved up one slot. So, it's Darren Young and Justin Gabriel. Striker went to the video board for a drumroll to reveal Gabriel #4 and Young #5. Young is gone. They cut to a shot of Young staring straight ahead with no reaction. Striker asked Young for his thoughts. He told Young to tell the Pros what he thinks.

Young took the mic and walked up the ramp to the stage. He thanked the fans for giving him an opportunity. He said the difference between him and the NXT Rookies is he has respect. He walked down the line of Pros saying he has respect for all of them, including Punk. He said he's not going to holler and cry, but say "thank you." The audience applauded. Young said NXT is over for him. He paused as the crowd went from applauding to singing, "Na na na, hey hey, good-bye." Young lowered the mic and surveyed the audience while Cole got in one more shot at Daniel Bryan. Mathews suggested Young might have a different view of the WWE audience now. He then walked to the end of the stage and said this isn't the last of him in WWE. Striker took the mic and said the competition is just heating up.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2010, 11:27 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-20-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_41457.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. KOZLOV

Santino playfully put his hand on Kozlov's chest, then Kozlov grappled him. Santino closed his eyes waiting for Kozlov's response, then Kozlov landed multiple headbutts as Santino shrieked. Kozlov hit the Iron Curtain and Santino folded up like a cheap suit on the mat. Kozlov with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Kozlov in 0:30. Good start to the show. Only 30 seconds of Kozlov in the ring, they got over his offense in a unique way, and Santino was able to do the comedy routine in front of an appreciative audience. (n/a)

2 -- GOLDUST vs. WILLIAM REGAL

The match started with a standing exchange as Cole listed Regal's accolades, including a former Raw GM. Regal then grounded Goldust and started working over Goldust's left shoulder. Goldust recovered in the corner as ref Jack Doane started putting on medical gloves to examine Goldust. A medic then attended to Goldust, who received a cut around his check and ear region. Lawler said the doctor makes the decision on whether a wrestler can continue in the match. Regal played to the crowd while the medical examination continued for a few minutes.

The medic cleared Goldust to continue, then Regal went on the offensive, but Goldust made a brief comeback. Goldust teased a DDT, but Regal countered with an exploding suplex. Regal then went for a running knee trembler, but Goldust ducked and hit the Curtain Call for the pin and the win. Post-match: Goldust recovered in the corner and stared down Regal after picking up the win. Good reaction for Goldust from the crowd before they replayed the high points from the match. Back in the ring, Goldust played to the crowd and acted fired up.

WINNER: Goldust in 4:00. Nice little TV match. Goldust continues to impress every time they give him an opportunity. (*1/4)

3 -- CODY RHODES vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Cody started with a lock-up, but Masters shoved him to the mat and did the pec dance. Cody tried to overpower Masters, but he couldn't, so he rolled to the floor to recover. Apparently he had Masters "scouted," as Masters tried to follow up on the outside, but Cody lured Masters into a trap by yanking his shoulder-first into the ringpost. Masters writhed in pain on the floor as they cut to break with a ten count being applied.

Cody was working over Masters in the ring back from break. Cody kept Masters on the mat working over his shoulder before Masters came to his feet and landed a short-arm clothesline. Masters landed a series of clotheslines before making a cover for a two count. Masters pumped up the crowd before attempting a one-arm Masterlock. Cody reached the ropes for a break, though. After Masters let up, Cody took advantage with a quick single arm DDT center ring. Cody then followed right up with Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rhodes in 9:00. Very good execution of basic ring psychology by Cody. Target the shoulder, take away one of Masters's arms for the Masterlock, get a slight advantage to re-target the shoulder, and hit the finisher for the win. Cody is on the right track getting over as a smart heel just looking to win matches. It's not main-event level, but it's effective and marketable if WWE gets Cody on a nice winning streak. (*1/2)

4 -- CHRISTIAN vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

The crowd was hot for Christian early on as he took early control. The action moved to the floor where Christian yanked Ziggler nose-first across the ring apron. Christian then hit a baseball slide kick through the ropes that knocked Ziggler to the floor. Christian rolled Ziggler back into the ring, where Ziggler caught him with a hard knee to the gut. Ziggler then flung Christian over the top rope and Christian ate the floor stomach-first. Christian sold as they cut to break.

Back from break, Ziggler was working on Christian with stomps and kicks and punches. Ziggler then missed with a corner attack and Christian hit the pendulum kick. Christian made his comeback while selling the mid-section and scored a nearfall following a missile dropkick. Christian then went all the way up top and hit a cross-body block, but Ziggler rolled through into a nearfall. Ziggler tried to follow with the Sleeper, but Christian slipped underneath and hit an inverted DDT for a two count.

Christian then tried a turnaround sunset flip, but Ziggler blocked and trapped Christian's shoulders to the mat for a two count. Ziggler immediately tried to follow with the Zig-Zag, but Christian held the ropes to block. Christian then hit the Killswitch moments later and scored the pin for the win. Post-match: They recapped highlights of the match before Christian was shown smiling and pumping his fist in victory to get his shine as they wrapped up the show.

WINNER: Christian in 10:00. Nice ten-minute TV main event. They had a good back-and-forth exchange at the end heightening the anticipation for the finish, which looked a bit "forced" with Ziggler kind of walking into Christian for the Unprettier. That aside, a solid bout between two solid wrestlers. It wasn't a blow-away match, as it fit Christian's basic wrestling style, but it told a good story and ended the show on a high note. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2010, 11:28 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 5-20-10

Resutls courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_41456.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results and top 10 segment.

Bischoff announced Samoa Joe was no. 10. His music played and Joe walked out onto the stage. A short vignette aired touting his strengths. Up next was Global Champion Rob Terry. He walked out to his music. Another vignette aired. Next was Desmond Wolfe at no. 8. Then "The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero at no. 7, who is out with an injury so yeah, give him a title shot. No. 6 was Abyss, no. 5 was Mr. Anderson, no. 4 was Jeff Hardy, no. 3 was A.J. Styles, no. 2 Kurt Angle, and no. 1 was Sting. Angle didn't come out when he was announced. The crowd chanted "We want Angle! We want Angle!" Sting did walk out when announced.

1 -- ROXXI vs. MADISON RAYNE

Tenay said they were still awaiting the return of Angle. Taz speculated that Roxxi was concerned about her cardio since she went for three quick covers in the opening seconds. Tenay noted that Sting vs. Hardy tonight is the first time those two ever meet. Nice to see it get all of an hour and a half of time for fans to anticipate it and TNA to build it up. Roxxi only needed a couple minutes, though, to finish Rayne with a Voo Doo Drop. "This is humongous!" Who said it? Taz, of course. Tenay and Taz made a big deal out of this being a big upset. It would seem that way if Rayne had been built up for months in a logical manner as a rising Knockout with an impressive winning streak against tough competition. Instead, she won out of nowhere on a whim and thus beating her really doesn't mean much even if the announcers say so. The announcers are right to make the best of the lousy situation the bookers created for them, although injuries did force the booking team's hand.

WINNER: Roxxi in 3:00.

2 -- ROB TERRY vs. ORLANDO JORDAN

Jeremy Borash is such a better ring announcer than Dave Penzer (sorry Dave). He also vocally is much less associated with so many of those terrible WCW years. Jordan was lowered to the ring by that hot pink piece of cloth under his shoulders. Terry limped to the ring. Jordan focused on Terry's knee early in the match. Jordan pulled off Terry's knee wrap and then applied a cranking knee lock. The ref stopped the match even though Terry didn't tap. How about establishing what the rules actually are? These rep stoppages without a tapout or verbal submission are so flat because it just screams "copout finish" because "we didn't want either wrestler to do to the job." Jordan wouldn't let go of the hold afterward for a minute despite several referees yelling at him. Tenay said he's heartless.

WINNER: Jordan in 3:00.

3 -- BEER MONEY INC. vs. ROB VAN DAM & JAY LETHAL

No Black Machismo get-up for Lethal. Just orange and white trunks and boots. Taz said it was good to see Lethal being himself and not in some other persona. Storm shoved Lethal off the top rope at 4:00. Beer Money double-teamed Lethal with stomps in the corner. Taz said he doesn't like the chances of RVD & Lethal considering that Beer Money have teamed so much longer and have had so much success. Tenay said he just received word that the Championship Committee just received word of Angle's withdrawal from the no. 2 ranking. He said that opens up no. 10 because everybody is moving up a slot. He said TNA has added an eight-man X Division battle royal to determine the no. 10 position. "Talk about a high stakes match!" Tenay said. Why is it a high-stakes match? What does being no. 10 mean? And this seems rather arbitrary. What about career titles history and won-loss record? What about fan voting? Why an X Division wrestle? Isn't this top ten list supposed to be for the heavyweight title? So with no X Division wrestlers in the announced top ten, we're supposed to now accept that a battle royal will determine the lone X Division wrestler in the top ten? What about the X Division Champion and other X Division contender? They were all bypassed and none made the cut? Why would an X Division wrestler want to be in the top ten for the Heavyweight Title anyway? Putting one X Division wrestler in the top ten at no. 10 after all were bypassed previously just says none of the X Division wrestlers were good enough to make the cut. Instead, they should have a separate Top Contenders list. This is low-IQ booking on display here. Everything just seems so arbitrary or contradictory you just stop caring.

At 3:00 RVD tagged in. After a kick off the second rope, RVD went for a pin on Roode, but Storm broke it up. RVD fended off a double-team attempt. Lethal hit a top rope dropkick on Storm, then he gave Roode the Lethal Combination, then RVD hit Rolling Thunder on Roode, and then Lethal put Roode in the figure-four for the tapout.

WINNERS: RVD & Lethal in 4:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Way too short for a tag match with this level of wrestlers involved. It cheapens the whole concept of a big-name tag match to go just four minutes. How does anyone get excited about a PPV of six to eight matches when TNA establishes on TV intriguing matches between evenly matched wrestlers such as this is over in around four minutes. It's totally arbitrary that PPV matches go much longer than TV matches. At least in WWE, TV main events tend to be PPV length, although they're often guilty of going very short with evenly matched wrestlers otherwise on the show.

4 -- SHANNON MOORE (w/Jesse Neal) vs. ERIC YOUNG (w/Scott Hall, Kevin Nash)

Okay, I'm going to ask. Why does Tenay always call Eric Young "Eli"? Or is it "Ely" because his full name is "Eric Leslie Young" or something like that? And shouldn't that be explained now and then, or is it that obvious? [Edit: I've been informed he calls him simply "E.Y." That makes sense. I wonder if I've been alone in the world wondering from time to time why his nickname is Eli. I never cared enough to ask before; glad I did now. Scratch that off my list of things I need to figure out an answer to in life.] Moore punched his way out of a loosely applied armbar by young at 2:00. Ray walked to ringside a minute later. Neal tackled Ray. With the ref distracted, although awkwardly executed, Hall hit Moore in the back with a tag strap. Young then finished Moore with the leaping piledriver.

WINNER: Young in 3:00. 

5 -- 8-MAN BATTLE ROYAL

Homicide, Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley, Kaz, Amazing Red, Generation Me #1, Generation Me #2, Brian Kendrick. Hilariously, with 14 minutes left in the show, Tenay said Spike TV will stay with this even if it goes past 11 o'clock. Oh, he was including Sting vs. Hardy in that comment; that makes more sense. Flair walked out. Taz said Kaz got new energy when he saw Flair, indicating he wanted to impress him. Kaz played to Flair. Kendrick snuck onto the match late and battled Kaz. Tenay said this could be a "career-changing win" for whoever is the last standing. Taz said it would put them on the radar. Flair looked impressed. Kaz seemed excited to have impressed Flair.

WINNER: Kaz in 4:00

5 -- STING vs. JEFF HARDY

As Sting made his ring entrance, Taz said RVD may have a few cracked ribs for Sting hitting him in the head with a chair. Hardy came out second. With five minutes left in the show, this epic never-before-seen dream match began. The poor saps in the crowd had no idea how much time was left in the taping, so they thought they might actually be on the verge of seeing something special instead of yet another devaluing of the whole concept of a star vs. star match-up. Had Sting and Hardy's careers taken a slightly different course the last six months, this could have been a co-headliner at WrestleMania 26. And it would have boosted the WrestleMania buyrate had it been promoted right. And here it is, a five minute throwaway match on Impact given away with zero weeks' notice. This is why TNA deserves what they get (or, I should say, don't get). There's very little difference between Sting's in-ring style in 2010 and Kevin Sullivan's in the late-1990s. Both styles incorporate standing up during their methodical kick-punch office, raking eyes, and avoiding taking any bumps.

At 4:00, after Sting controlled the entire beginning of the match, he missed a Stinger splash in the corner when Hardy moved. Hardy missed with a top rope flip dive when Sting side-stepped him. Sting then moved Hardy nearer the bottom rope so Hardy could grab it after applying the Scorpion Deathlock to force a break. Hardy crawled toward the bottom rope and forced a break. The ref tumbled out of the ring when Sting yanked Hardy back into the ring. The ref had to create all of his own motion. Mr. Anderson entered and gave Sting a Scorpion Death Drop just as Sting was about to give it to Hardy. Anderson rolled to ringside and hid as Hardy scored the three count. Anderson then entered the ring and raised Hardy's arm.

WINNER: Hardy in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *

-Afterward, Hardy shoved Anderson. Anderson talked to him and tried to convince him he wasn't his enemy. Some vocal fans chanted, "Anderson! Anderson!" Sting entered the ring and hit both Hardy and Anderson from behind with a bat. Some fans chanted, "Hogan! Hogan!"
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2010, 01:10 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_41480.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - LAY-COOL vs. TIFFANY & KELLY KELLY

They've officially got the Lay-Cool chyron, so I figured it's their official team name. Tony Chimel announced them as co-Women's Champions. Tiffany and Kelly Kelly have to be the least intimidating tag team of all time. But if you're counting Divas, they may have competition. Layla went for a quick cover, dodging a hip-toss. Kelly used the ropes to flip out of a wrist-lock, then knocked Layla off the apron and to the floor. Michelle McCool received the same treatment. Kelly landed a cross-body onto McCool, and Tiffany took out Layla. Tiffany tagged in and monkey-flipped Layla out of the corner. Layla took over soon after, and tagged her partner. She went for a monkey flip on McCool, but Michelle turned it into a Faith Breaker for the win.

WINNERS: Lay-Cool, at 2:01. Not as bad as I expected.

2 - JTG vs. CAYLEN CROFT

The Dudebusters did an inset interview during their entrance. They didn't have much to say, other than that they bust dudes up. For sure. Croft went down expecting JTG to hop over him, but JTG stopped short and kicked him. Neck snap by JTG for a one-count. Croft stopped JTG's momentum and got a neck-breaker for two. Knee to the neck by Croft, who went back to a neck vice. How many times can I type "neck" during this match? JTG made his comeback, including a flip clothesline and a dropkick. Mugshot out of the corner that looked ugly. Trent Baretta tried to distract JTG, but he hit his finisher on Croft (also ugly) to get the victory.

WINNER: JTG, at 2:33. Pretty nondescript action, with a poor finishing sequence. JTG and MVP got the win last week, why not give Croft the win here?

3 - CURT HAWKINS & VANCE ARCHER vs. JEREMY BARNER & BRENT ROBERTS

Grisham talked about the contracts Archer and Hawkins discussed on Superstars last week. Hawkins tripped up one jobber while Archer booted him in the face. Archer slammed the guy right on his face in an impressive move, unfortunately, they were showing a replay at the same time. Archer brought the other guy in and gave him the reverse DDT, then Hawkins landed an elbowdrop off the top for the win.

WINNERS: Hawkins and Archer, at 1:16. Impressive squash. I'm in favor of anything that helps build the tag division.

4 - JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON

During Kofi's entrance, they showed what happened when Kofi was screwed out of the Intercontinental Title last week. Swagger seemed confident to start, but Kofi's kicks took him off his game. He found himself at ringside, let out a primal scream, and headed back in. The two men traded rights, with Kofi getting the advantage. Springboard right hand by Kofi, who then clotheslined Swagger out of the ring. They went to break at that point.

Kingston had Swagger in an arm-bar out of break. Kingston low-bridged an overaggressive Swagger, sending the champ to the outside. But Swagger put Kofi on his shoulders and threw him into the ring post. Swagger continued the assault in the ring, catching Kingston with a kick as Kofi came off the turnbuckle. Quick near-fall for Kofi, but Swagger countered with a belly-to-belly. Kingston got set on the top rope, but he came away with a tornado DDT, leaving both men gasping for air on the mat. Kingston pounded on Swagger's head, sitting on his shoulders in the corner. SOS by Kofi for two. He missed Trouble in Paradise, but landed a side-Russian leg-sweep. Big boot by Swagger, but Big Show walked out with a mic, trying to get Swagger's attention. He said he had something important to say, but that distraction allowed Kofi to hit a springboard cross-body for the three count.

WINNER: Kingston, at 11:41.

5 - REY MYSTERIO & MVP vs. C.M. PUNK & LUKE GALLOWS

MVP had the straps down on his outfit. MVP and Rey used some teamwork to keep Gallows at bay. Serena got on the apron and Gallows pulled MVP off the second rope by his leg. They went to break about 2:00 in.

Punk had MVP down out of break, and tagged Gallows in. Gallows prevented MVP from making the tag. Good tag team execution (Striker agrees with me) but the heels. Gallows settled into a rear waist-lock with MVP seated on the mat. Mysterio finally made the tag at about 9:00, flying all over the ring and onto Gallows. Mysterio was about to hit the 619, but Punk flew off the top rope and landed a clothesline to stop him. Nice move. He got Rey up for the GTS, but Rey rolled through for two. Gallows broke it up, but MVP neutralized him. The hooded stranger got on the apron to distract Rey, but Mysterio threw him into the ring post. Punk couldn't capitalize, and Rey hit a hurricanrana with a roll-up for three.

WINNERS: MVP & Mysterio, at 10:33. Good little match, and now I really think Punk is winning Sunday.

6 - THE BIG SHOW vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre tried to take a walk early, and dominated back in the ring with his hard slap to the chest. Show stepped on McIntyre's chest and the fans chanted, "one more time." So he tried another slap to the chest, but Mac countered with an eye gouge. Show clotheslined McIntyre back down and took some more time to recover. Headbutt sent McIntyre to the mat. McIntyre tried to hook in his DDT, but couldn't. Show made his comeback, but Swagger interfered to draw the DQ.

WINNER: Show, at 3:50.

Swagger went after Show's hand, to presumably prevent a knockout punch on Sunday. He went to get a chair, but Swagger ended up getting hold of it before Swagger could use it. And Show was not happy. Swagger escaped the ring and headed up the ramp as he kept his eyes on Show in the ring. Show's music played as he screamed in fury. The show went off the air at that point.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 26 2010, 01:20 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-24-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41542.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

RAW started with Batista quitting the WWE and Bret Hart being announced as the new GM of RAW...

1 -- MARK HENRY vs. SHEAMUS -- Fatal Four-Way PPV qualifying match

Cole again referenced Sheamus taking out Triple H at Extreme Rules to keep Hunter's name on the air and in the minds of viewers. Sheamus tried to over-power Henry early on, but Henry out-muscled Sheamus and cleared him to the floor. Cole then cut his heel promo on Bret Hart wanting to know how Mr. McMahon allowed this to happen with Hart the new Raw GM. Lawler said they hope to get an explanation eventually. Back in the ring, Sheamus cut down Henry at the knees to begin working him over on the mat. Henry made a comeback from his feet before running over Sheamus with a brick-wall block. Henry then wanted a big splash and he connected. Sheamus kicked out of a pin attempt, though. He tried a running splash in the corner, but Sheamus moved. Sheamus then tried a top rope move, but Henry caught him in mid-air. He attempted a press slam, but Henry sold shoulder pain and dropped Sheamus on his feet. Sheamus then followed with an emphatic pump kick to the face that took out Henry. Nice sequence. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:05. Nice four-minute TV match with something on the line and a sense of urgency to the match. So, it's Cena vs. Orton vs. Sheamus vs. ??? at the next PPV. (*1/4)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & GAIL KIM vs. MARYSE & ALICIA FOX

Eve acted like she wanted another piece of Maryse after the PPV last night, but Maryse blew her off and fixed her hair while standing on the apron. Tremendous charisma. Gail and Alicia started things off, then Maryse cut off Gail and went to work on Eve's partner. Eve then took a hot tag and cleaned house on Maryse. Eve hit Tara's standing moonsault, but Fox broke up a pin. In the confusion, Alicia blasted Eve with a kick to the face behind the ref's back. Maryse then hit the French Kiss DDT on Eve for the pin and the win. The heels then celebrated the victory on the way out.

WINNERS: Maryse & Gail at 2:11. And the Eve vs. Maryse feud must continue. It's fine, as they have a nice program going. (*)

3 -- THE MIZ vs. R-TRUTH -- U.S. Title match

Cole reset the deal that Bret Hart is the new Raw GM and this match is for the vacated title after Hart won the belt last week. Lawler checked Cole on his anti-Hart comments recently and Cole tried to backtrack that he didn't quite mean what he said about wanting Hart to go away. Truth knocked Miz to the floor early on and Miz regrouped as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz was standing over Truth on the outside. Miz rammed Truth into the ring apron focusing on Truth's left shoulder before they recapped what happened during the break when Truth nearly broke his neck attempting a dive to the outside. Cole put over the heritage of the U.S. Title while Miz worked over Truth back in the ring. Cole: "I tell you, Miz looks a bit naked (awkward pause) without championship gold." It was as awkward as Cole excitedly saying he's dreamed of picturing C.M. Punk bald for a long time. Miz continued to work over Truth as they reached the top of the hour.

Miz hung Truth upside down in the corner and the ref reprimanded him, causing Miz to be distracted. Truth then suddenly did a sit-up into an overhead suplex toss. That was impressive. Truth then made a full comeback with a pancake followed by a missile dropkick from the second rope for a two count. Truth followed with a modified STO and scored a two count. Truth looked to the crowd, then went up top as Miz recovered to his feet. Truth hit a cross- body, but Miz rolled through into a pin attempt for a close two count. The crowd gasped as Truth nearly lost.

Miz then wanted the Reality Check, but Truth countered into a backslide for another close two. The crowd rallied with an "R-Truth" chant as Truth tried a small package, but scored a two count only. Truth then wanted a scissors kick, but Miz ducked. Truth then ducked a clothesline and smashed Miz off the ropes with the Lie Detector. Pin and the win. Truth is your new U.S. champion. They recapped the highlights as Truth got his shine celebrating with the title, although he was more casual than Kofi Kingston celebrating the IC Title victory last night.

WINNER: Truth at 10:05 to capture the U.S. Title. WWE obviously sees a lot in Truth as a featured babyface on Raw. The title victory explains why they had Truth go over DiBiase at the PPV last night. This was a strong TV match with some good nearfalls at the end and another sense of urgency to a match on Raw. (**1/2)

4 -- Unified tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. WILLIAM REGAL & KOZLOV -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Regal blasted Kidd in the head to jumpstart the match. Kozlov then tagged in to work over Kidd. Kidd came back with a kick to the head before Smith tagged in and ran into a headbutt from Kozlov. Regal then tagged in and airballed with his Knee Trembler. Kidd then tagged in and they hit a double-team Hart Attack. Kidd made the pin as Smith knocked Kozlov off the ring apron.

Post-match: Suddenly, a new team and female valet hit the ring. It's the Uso Brothers, Jimmy and Jules. All three members of Hart Dynasty were KO'ed in the ring, then the Usos and their manager went up top and paused before hitting a triple simultaneous flying splash. They stood tall in the ring over the tag champs to close the segment without being named by name.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty at 1:20. The story was obviously the post-match with the Usos getting a call up to the big leagues from FCW. Very interesting with WWE's apparent renewed emphasis on tag team wrestling. (n/a)

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE -- Jericho or Edge wins PPV title match spot with a win

The bell sounded and Cena quickly cleared the ring. Cena stood his ground waiting for the heels to regroup. Cut to break with Cena in control.

Back from break, Cena was on the defensive, then he charged out of the corner with a clothesline on Edge. Jericho cut off Cena, then Edge tried to sneak up behind Jericho with a small package, but Jericho kicked out. Cole reset what's at stake here before Cena cleared Edge to the outside. Cena then missed a flying shoulder tackle when Jericho ducked. Jericho attempted a stomp, but completely missed as the camera zoomed in tight. At least Cena didn't sell, which would have looked horrible. Jericho landed a stomp, then went to work on Cena's back to take advantage of Batista's work on the PPV last night. Jericho landed a DDT before missing with a corner attack and Cena started his trademark comeback routine. Cena dropped Jericho center ring and teased the Five Knuckle Shuffle with Edge on the outside. No sign of Edge as Cena hit the Shuffle. Cena then wanted the Attitude Adjustment as Edge entered the ring. They had an awkward exchange where Cena side-stepped Edge, who kinda speared Jericho in the corner.

Cena slapped on the STF on Edge, but Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho on Cena. Jericho then dropped the hold and slapped the Walls of Jericho on Edge. Cena then re-entered the picture and dropped Jericho with a neckbreaker before knocking Edge to the outside. Cena then countered a cross-body attempt by Jericho and rolled to his feet into AA position. Edge speared Cena, though, and all three men collapsed to the mat as they hit the top of the hour.

The action reset with close nearfalls by Edge and Jericho on each other as Cole reset the news on the show. Cena came to his feet and teased the AA on Edge, but Edge shoved him off to Jericho, who hit the codebreaker. Edge then dropped Jericho with the spear center ring. Edge made the cover on Jericho and scored the pinfall. He's going to Fatal Four-Way. Cole started the immediate stacking of the deck saying Cena could lose the title at the PPV if the same thing happens as what happened here.

Post-match: Sheamus came out on stage and stood on top of the ramp with Edge at the base of the ramp and Cena in the ring. Randy Orton's music suddenly hit and Orton came out on stage. There were no signs of an injury to Orton, who had a stoic look on his face. No cast or bandage or anything drawing attention to an injury. They went to a straight-on camera shot showing Cena in the ring, Edge on the floor, Sheamus half-way up the ramp, and Orton on the stage staring each other down to close the show.

WINNER: Edge at 10:22 to earn a Fatal Four-Way slot. Strong TV main event with the action moving at a quick pace to keep the live audience engaged despite some sloppy spots. Cena vs. Sheamus vs. Orton vs. Edge is an interesting match-up with the deck already being stacked against Cena. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 26 2010, 02:07 pm
WWE NXT Results: 5-25-10

Ring results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41568.shtml)

1 -- CHRISTIAN & HEATH SLATER vs. U.S. champion R-TRUTH & DAVID OTUNGA

Truth and Slater started things off with Truth landing early offense on the Rookie opposition. Otunga then tagged in and Slater took control working over Otunga's shoulder. Christian then tagged in and landed an axehandle smash to continue working the shoulder. Michael Cole put over Otunga's charisma as Christian slapped Otunga across the face and landed a dropkick for a two count. Cole said perhaps Otunga's in-ring ability is lacking, while Mathews said he's impressed the Pros with his "mic skills." It's just plain pandering to the audience at this point.

Otunga cut off Christian and worked him over as Cole put over Otunga having the "it factor." He said Otunga is "flashy" and he sees him on the cover of magazines all the time. In the ring, Christian started slapping Otunga around before landing a flying European Uppercut. He then made a tag to Slater, who came in hot on Otunga. Slater landed a flying forearm, then a dropkick on Otunga for a two count. Mathews and Cole discussed the Daniel Bryan bit and Cole said he's going to call him out next. Back in the ring, Slater went up top and landed a cross-body, but Otunga rolled through and scored a three count for the win. Post-match: Otunga's nose was noticeably bright red, apparently from taking a blow earlier in the match. Otunga celebrated his victory as Truth stood behind him not really approving or excited.

WINNERS: Truth & Otunga in 6:00. Okay, basic match. Exactly what you would expect from a match on NXT looking like a basic run-through-the-motions type of exhibition. (*)

2 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Matt Hardy) vs. WADE BARRETT (w/Chris Jericho)

Barrett started on the offensive as Jericho shouted at the announcers to talk up Barrett. Gabriel then made a comeback with a spin kick that showed light before hitting a corner elbow smash. Gabriel then hit a sunset flip powerbomb. He started climbing up top and Hardy encouraged him to keep climbing. Gabriel then hit the 450 splash on Barrett for the pin and the win. Jericho had a great post-match reaction nibbling on the side of his mouth selling discontent. The Pros were shown evaluating the happenings as the announcers sold the match outcome as Gabriel possibly making it to the finals with that victory. They replayed the finish with Striker doing a good job pointing out flaws in what Barrett did in the ring that cost him the match. That was good.

WINNER: Gabriel in 4:00. Decent match with a rare sense of purpose to what was happening in the ring on NXT, as the storyline was the match had potential to influence who goes home, especially with Gabriel just missing the cut last week. (*1/4)

During the middle of the show, Daniel Bryan confronted Michael Cole and once again made him look like a fool. Also got into it with The Miz.

The pro's poll:

#1 is Wade Barrett still.

#2 is David Otunga still.

Striker then asked Gabriel to step forward, followed by Slater. Striker said they've come so close and one of them will be going home while the other one will make it to the season finale next week.

#3 is Justin Gabriel. That means Heath Slater is #4 and he's gone.

Next week has been billed as the season finale so we'll see who's the winner of NXT.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2010, 02:12 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_41607.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CODY RHODES

Grisham provided the notes on the match that both men made their names as tag team wrestlers and now they're looking to make a name for themselves as singles wrestlers, but they have to win matches. It's refreshing to hear a wrestling announcer referencing the simple importance of winning matches. JTG and Cody started with a basic exchange before JTG pulled out a quick small package attempt for a two count. Rhodes then chucked JTG to the outside, but JTG flew back into the ring to tackle Rhodes. Cody reversed a whip to the ropes, then hit a dropkick for a two count. As Cody began a methodical attack, Grisham and Striker picked up a conversation on C.M. Punk losing his hair and suggested Punk will come back crazier after being humiliated at Over the Limit. They cut to break with JTG knocking Cody over the top rope to the outside to take control going to break.

Back from break, JTG landed a short-arm clothesline before doing sort of a rolling neck snap that was probably better on paper than in execution. The action moved to the apron where Cody took JTG's left arm across the top rope to begin working over the left shoulder. Cody continued a methodical attack taking his sweet time measuring every move. Cody then missed with a clothesline and cut off JTG's attempted comeback. Cody shot JTG off to the ropes, but JTG came back with a flip-over neckbreaker to begin a comeback.

JTG followed with a top rope leg smash, but Cody kicked out at two. JTG then went for a spinning neckbreaker off the ropes and it was sloppily executed with Cody falling down before JTG executed. Cody suddenly came back with a running enziguiri kick off the top turnbuckle. He followed right up with Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes in 15:00. Very, very methodical match. They walked a fine line between having a steady build-up to the finish and completely losing the audience. JTG's comeback wasn't strong, especially with the sloppy neckbreaker, but Cody had a nice one-two combo for the finish. JTG still has work to do as a singles wrestler, while Cody has to do a better job of engaging the audience while he's going through the procedure of a methodical attack. (*1/2)

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. PRIMO COLON

The announcers talked around Primo's heel turn, with no mentions of Carlito, of course. Primo mock extended a handshake to Yoshi and Yoshi unwittingly accepted, leading to Primo dropping him with a short-arm clothesline. "Primo sucks" chant from the crowd. Lawler said he's not sure Carlos Colon would be proud of his son, while Cole shot back that it's about wins and losses and getting the job done. Lawler, with the full-fledged babyface turn on commentary, said sometimes you have to be able to look yourself in the mirror. Primo continued to work over Yoshi as Lawler referenced the number of injuries stemming from the PPV on Sunday. Lawler talked up Antonio Inoki in reference to Yoshi, who made a comeback with two feet to the gut as Primo came off the second rope. "Yoshi, Yoshi" chant as Yoshi ducked a right hand and landed kick strikes to the mid-section. Yoshi followed with a Shining Wizard for a two count, then tried a top rope move. Primo cut him off, though, but Yoshi punched Primo off the top rope. Yoshi then came off the top with a spinning heel kick to the mid-section for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Yoshi in 6:00. Nice Superstars TV match. Yoshi showed trademark energy and both men gave the show a nice dose of athleticism following the methodical opening match. (*1/2)

3 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. ZACK RYDER

Early on, Bourne went up top teasing Air Bourne, but Ryder popped to his feet and cut off Bourne. Bourne flipped down to the corner, then Ryder followed with a Samoa Joe-style face wash kick. Bourne fell through the ropes to the floor, leaving Ryder in control going to break.

Back from break, Ryder was stretching Bourne's neck with a mat hold back in the ring. Ryder bent Bourne like a pretzel, then Bourne transitioned into a crucifix pin for a two count. Ryder popped to his feet, though, and slingshot Bourne across the top rope for a two count. Ryder with a neckbreaker for a two count, then he went back to a side headlock. Lawler provided dating advice to the audience with no Divas ringside for Ryder this week on Superstars as Ryder continued to work over Bourne.

At 10:00, Ryder went back to a headlock continuing to ground Bourne and cut off his offense. Bourne suddenly busted out a spin kick, but he sold being too worn down to capitalize. Bourne then hit a leg sweep and multiple kick strikes that put Ryder down in the corner. Bourne followed with a running double-foot kick strike. He then went up top for Air Bourne, but Ryder came to his feet and avoided Bourne's finisher. He followed with the Rough Ryder and Bourne kicked out, with Lawler selling shock on commentary.

Ryder wanted the Zack Attack, but Bourne kicked him to the corner again. He wanted Air Bourne again, but Ryder moved out of the way and Bourne ate the mat. Ryder then hit the Zack Attack and scored the pin for the win. Post-match: They rolled footage from the high points of the match and Ryder avoiding Air Bourne. Ryder was shown celebrating on the way out as Cole plugged Raw from Austin on Monday.

WINNER: Ryder in 13:00. That's a pretty big deal they booked Ryder to have a very rare counter to one of the most over finishing moves in the company. Yes, it's a small stage on Superstars, but that has to be some anecdotal evidence Ryder will get future TV time on Raw to get himself over. Good, basic wrestling match overall to complete the Superstars package focusing on wins & losses, plus solid athleticism. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2010, 02:13 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_41611.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE BAND (Kevin Nash & Scott Hall & Eric Young) vs. SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL vs. TEAM 3D

At the start of the match, Young battled Moore with Hall and Nash both on the ring apron awaiting a tag. Tenay explained, such as something like this can be explained, that the first person Young tags will reveal which of Hall and Nash is wrestling versus sitting out the match. At 2:00 Ray tagged in against Neal. Devon tagged himself in by slapping Ray on the back. Ray wasn't pleased. Devon shoved Neal into his corner to tag in Moore. Taz said he was disappointed in Devon taking mercy on Neal. Ray tagged back in and brutalized Neal again. Devon still had a problem with that. Ray told him to shut up. When Ray grabbed a chair, Devon yanked it away from him. Neal surprisd Ray with a spear for a pin. Quite the payday for Hall and Nash.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in 4:00 when Neal pinned Ray.

2 -- JAY LETHAL vs. KAZARIAN

Flair walked out at 2:00 and distracted Lethal. Flair smiled as Kaz went on offense. Kaz smiled back, then went on the attack on Lethal. At 3:00 Lethal made a comeback and hit a flying shoulder and clothesline. Kaz kicked out of a moonsault body press pin attempt, then used a jaw-breaker to slow Lethal. Lethal followed up with a roundkick as Kaz rebounded off the ropes. Lethal smiled and looked at Flair as he signaled for the figure-four. Flair got upset as Lethal did a Flair-style dance before applying the hold center-ring. Flair stood on the ring apron and yelled at Kaz to grab the bottom rope. Kaz eventually reached the bottom rope. Lethal walked over to Flair. Flair pie-faced Lethal. Lethal fired back with an elbow or punch (whatever it was supposed to be, it showed light). Kaz then rolled up Lethal from behind for the win.

WINNER: Kazarian in 5:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Good short match that led to an angle to elevate the Lethal-Kaz feud. I'm still not sold at all on pushing Kaz as a major player as he's current cast. There's just nothing compelling about his character, but this is a decent try by mixing him with Flair. There's just nothing we know about Kaz's personality other than he's eager to get advice from Flair.

3 -- ORLANDO JORDAN vs. ABYSS (w/Chelsea)

Jordan came out in his hot-pink trunks. He kissed the camera lens while on his hands and knees. He also had some sort of paint or pasties on his nipples that looked like Abyss. Chelsea wore her "super-sad-face." Taz and Tenay wondered about the "pasties." After four minutes of back and forth action, Abyss set up a slam on Jordan at ringside. Jordan slipped free and shoved Abyss into Chelsea. As Abyss bent over to check on Chelsea, Desmond Wolfe ran out and attacked him from behind with a pipe. Jordan and Wolfe double-teamed Abyss. The ref called for the DQ.

WINNER: Abyss via DQ in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *

-Afterward, Rob Terry ran out and made the save, still favoring his injured left leg, though. He gave Jordan his Freakbuster chokeslam. Abyss went to ringside and carried a knocked out Chelsea to the back.

4 -- THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (Lacey Von Erich & Velvet Sky w/Madison Rayne) vs. SARITA & TAYLOR WILDE

Puppet stuck around to provide color commentary with Tenay and Taz. As the Beautiful People made their provocative ring entrance, Taz said rumor has it they like little people. Puppet said he just grew an inch. Taz said he did. Tenay said, "Hey hey hey." Puppet and Taz continued to make a bunch of horny references and also joked about Puppet maybe being drunk. Puppet said they wrestled at a maximum security prison and these murderers were cheering for him.

WINNERS: Beautiful People in 3:00 when Lacey pinned Wilde.

5 -- DESMOND WOLFE vs. JEFF HARDY

Kurt Angle joined Taz and Tenay at ringside. Angle said Wolfe is a fierce competitor who goes after whatever body part he wants. He predicted victory. Angle noted he's never wrestled Hardy and he'd love to. He said he wants to have dream matches every time he wrestles. Angle said taking the month off was a great break for him. He said he watched Impact every week. Angle said his shoulder is still injured from wrestling Wolfe. Wolfe dominated most of the opening few minutes. He nailed Hardy with a running uppercut in the corner. At 6:00 Hardy flipped off the top rope at Wolfe, but Wolfe moved and Hardy's boot hit the ref. Hardy hit a Twist of Fate, but the ref was down. Wolfe then pulled a black sack full of coins out of his trunks and he KO'd Hardy. The ref came to and counted to three.

WINNER: Wolfe in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Nice start to a potentially good match, but it ended pretty suddenly with the foreign object.

6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. MR. ANDERSON

They traded headlocks early, then picked up the pace in the closing minute with Anderson hitting a flying bodyblock, but Styles rolling through and wrapping his legs around the bottom rope for extra leverage while pulling on tights. Taz called it highway robbery. Anderson looked at Styles in appreciation rather than anger. Tenay said he respects that he was beat at his own game.

WINNER: Styles in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4

-Afterward Anderson called for the mic and it lowered. Anderson called the lowered mic "magic." He told Styles, "You got me at my own frickin' game." Styles denied he cheated. Anderson asked his "********." He asked if Styles pulled his tights. The crowd chanted, "Yes you did! Yes you did!" Anderson then beat him into the corner. Beer Money ran out and attacked Anderson. Hardy's music played and he made a telegraphed save with a chair, clearing the ring instantly. Hardy held the chair up toward Anderson, but then dropped it. Hardy extended his hand and Anderson shook it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2010, 02:13 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_41626.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - DREW MCINTYRE & JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON & THE BIG SHOW

Pretty big match for the opener. Then again, when you've got the Undertaker in action, chances are good he's going to be in the main event. Kofi with the pine green tights tonight. Swagger wrestled him to the ground to start. Swagger had taped ribs under his singlet due to the damage inflicted by Show on Sunday. Matt Striker talked about how he texts with Vince McMahon instead of receiving letters like McIntyre. The image of McMahon texting almost made me laugh out loud. Kingston and McIntyre had a back-and-forth exchange. Flying forearm by Kingston as Striker for some reason mentioned people thinking that Tom Petty is the third Mulkey brother. Show tagged in and did a number on McIntyre. They went to break more than three minutes into the match.

Show was still in control of McIntyre out of break. He even managed to scare Swagger off the apron. Bodyslam by Mac in the babyface corner. Kingston tagged in and worked the left arm of the former I.C. Champ. McIntyre finally came back, but it was short-lived. I like how they're saying this Fatal Four-Way PPV is a new concept, when the entire premise is the titles defended in Fatal Four-Way matches, which is not a new concept at all. Swagger took out Kingston as he went for a high-risk maneuver, pulling his leg down before he could springboard, which bounced Kofi's head off the apron. The camera caught it nicely. McIntyre took advantage with a hard chop to the chest. He then tagged Swagger. McIntyre picked up where Swagger left off in taking the beating to Kingston. A Craig Ehlo name-drop by Striker. Well, they are in Cleveland. Kingston fired back against Swagger, landing a cross-body off the top. Both men were down and needed to make tags. Both did, and Big Show ate McIntyre's lunch. A distraction by Swagger allowed Mac to try the Future Shock, but it did not pan out. Show set up for the punch, staring right at Swagger as he did it. And he picked up the win with it.

WINNERS: Kingston and Show, at 13:46. Fun match, but the way it was put together, you could definitely tell McIntyre is in the doghouse.

2 - C.M. PUNK vs. KANE

Kane got off to a good start, slowly picking Punk apart. He worked the left arm as Striker tried to make a case for Punk being stronger with the mask on. Kane missed a splash in the corner, then Punk followed up with a knee to the face. Bulldog was not successful, and Kane grabbed at the mask. Punk was able to escape with his mask (and dignity) still in tact. They went to break about 2:30 in.

Back with Punk stomping away on the grounded Kane. Kane recovered and went to the top, but Punk crotched him, then kicked him to ringside. Punk continued work on the left leg of the Big Red Monster. Kane fought back on the mat and finally got to a vertical base, suplexing Punk for a two-count. But Punk went right back to the leg. Modified Indian Deathlock by Punk. Kane registered a couple of near falls, one close one on a sidewalk slam. To the top he went and he landed the clothesline, but Kane came up lame. He readied for the chokeslam, but Kane kicked at the legs. "The Executioner, Dr. X himself, C.M. Punk" said Striker. I can't even keep up with his references tonight. Punk hit a cross-body but Kane rolled through for two. Punk escaped a chokeslam and attempted to get Kane up for the Go To Sleep. Kane grabbed the mask, but Serena distracted the ref so Gallows could hit Kane with a right hand. Kick to the head of Kane got him wobbly, then a GTS finished it. The GTS was just awful, by the way. Like, really bad.

WINNER: Punk, at 13:59. Match never got out of first gear. Disappointing.

3 - CHRISTIAN & HORNSWOGGLE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & CHAVO GUERRERO

Vickie accompanied Chavo to the ring. Chavo went for the Three Amigos suplexes, but Christian stopped it short. Hornswoggle tagged in and sat on Chavo. His offense didn't last long, as Chavo put him on the mat. He lectured Hornswoggle, then slammed him in the heel corner. Ziggler tagged in and attached Horny to the corner, but Ziggler missed a charge. Christian and Chavo tagged in, with Christian getting the better of the exchange. Not much heat after the tag. Flapjack by Christian, then a second rope elbow. Flip kick in the corner, then a second-rope dropkick. Ziggler broke up the pin, but Hornswoggle kicked at Ziggler. Ziggler grabbed him by the collar and tossed him to ringside. Ziggler followed via Christian. Suplex by Chavo, then it was Frogsplash time. Christian moved, and Chavo rolled through. Killswitch by Christian for the win.

WINNER: Christian and Hornswoggle, at 4:15.

Ziggler attacked after the match and locked Christian into a sleeper.

4 - LUKE GALLOWS vs. MVP

MVP went to the announce table and got some powder, throwing it in the air before the match. It's a LeBron thing. Belly-to-belly suplex by MVP, then he rained down right hands on the cranium of Gallows. Flying forearm by MVP, but Gallows asked the referee to check his eye. MVP tried to attack, but Gallows sent him to ringside. Back in the ring, the Sober Soldier slowed things down. Boot to the face by MVP and he went on offense once again. Face-buster, then he set up and hit the "Ballin'!" elbowdrop. Gallows retreated to the arena floor, where MVP met him with a clothesline from the apron. Serena distracted MVP and the masked stranger DDT'd MVP on the apron behind the ref's back. Gallows hit the Gallows' Pole (or, the 12th Step) for the pin.

WINNER: Gallows, at 4:12. Just a match. Good win for Gallows, though.

5 - REY MYSTERIO vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Mysterio tried to dance away from Taker, but no dice. Front-first suplex onto the top rope by Taker, but Mysterio dodged a big boot and sent Taker to ringside. That just upset the Dead Man, and Rey wisely escaped the ring. Moonsault onto Taker on the outside as they went to break under 2:00 in.

Taker got Mysterio up for a bodyslam, but Rey slipped out. Mysterio fought out of a chokeslam, and then a Last Ride. Taker got set up for the 619, but Taker stood up and booted Mysterio down. Striker tried to claim Taker was moving better than he ever has before. My bullshit meter just blew up. Mysterio was thrown out of the ring. Mysterio was driven back-first into the ring post. More work on the back of Mysterio by the Undertaker. Rey came back with an ugly headscissors to send Taker into the corner. Seated Senton after Taker sat up, which was unique. Both men seemed drained at about the ten minute mark. Mysterio dialed up the 619 and went for the splash, but Taker put his arm up and Rey found himself in chokeslam position. He fought out and Taker gave him the Snake Eyes. Taker was bleeding from the mouth, I think. Springboard moonsault, but Taker caught it and Tombstoned Rey. That was all she wrote for Rey.

WINNER: Taker, at 10:43. Well, Rey can take his month off now. Surprised to see Taker back so soon, but with Rey out and Big Show as the top face, clearly, Smackdown needs him.

Taker posed as they were out soon after the match ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 02 2010, 11:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-31-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41660.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion R-TRUTH vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match

Jericho grabbed a headlock early on as Cole formally introduced the show from on-campus at UT and recapped the opening segment. Truth then slingshot Jericho through the ropes to the floor in front of the announce table. Truth followed with a slingshot plancha and Cole sent to a commercial.

Back from break, Jericho was in control working over Truth as the announcers suggested the wrestlers in the locker room aren't taking Truth seriously as U.S. champion until he proves it. Jericho slapped Truth, so Truth came back with a flying fist smash. Truth showed his "quirky style" on offense with some awkward blows Jericho tried blocking. Truth then hit a boot to the face for a two count. Jericho blocked a corner attack, then hit a running bulldog out of the corner. Jericho airballed the Lionsault and both men recovered on the mat. Truth tried a scissors kick, but Jericho ducked and teased the Walls of Jericho. Truth flung him away, though, and kinda executed a facebuster suplex for a two count. Jericho then hit a clothesline after a referee distraction and scored a two count.

Jericho caught his breath and stomped on Truth before mocking him with "What's up?" shouts. Truth did his flashy acrobatics before Jericho attempted the Walls of Jericho. He couldn't lock it in and Truth countered with a small package pin for the three count and the win. Post-match: Truth smiled and soaked in the fan reaction to the victory. Meanwhile, Jericho stared at the mat in disgust selling confusion and shock over how he lost. Another loss for Jericho seems to be leading somewhere with Jericho perhaps snapping. Lawler said he's worried about Jericho.

WINNER: Truth at 9:46. Decent story to the match, but some sloppy spots. Truth has to clean up some of his offense, but he will apparently have plenty of opportunities with WWE strongly behind him. The post-match with Jericho was an intriguing post-script that will keep viewers wanting to see where it's leading. (*1/2)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & SANTINO MARELLA vs. MARYSE & WILLIAM REGAL (w/Kozlov)

Eve and Maryse started things off, then Regal and Santino tagged in. Regal dominated Santino, including hitting an exploder suplex before slapping on the Regal Stretch. Maryse broke it up, then the ref lost track of things as the Divas began brawling. Suddenly, Kozlov hit the ring and dropped Regal with a chokeslam that got a pop. Maryse and Kozlov suddenly ran off together. Back in the ring, Santino pinned Regal to score the win.

WINNERS: Eve & Santino at 2:25. That was an interesting match finish, especially Maryse running off with Kozlov after Kozlov seemed to turn babyface. Wait and see on how this sorts itself out. (n/a)

3 -- THE MIZ vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Bryan blasted Miz with clenched fists early on, then he missed with a corner attack. Miz landed left hand forearm blows as Cole did his customary promo on Bryan. The ref demanded a corner break as they cut to a shot of Cole continuing to cut his promo. Miz went up top and landed a double axe-handle smash. Cole then cut a promo on vegans. Miz slapped Bryan across the face, then Bryan trapped Miz on the mat with a Crossface. Bryan wrenched back as the crowd popped. Miz tried to counter out of it, but Bryan countered into a crucifix pin. He scored the three count for the win, which led to a look of shock by Cole ringside.

Post-match: Miz attacked Bryan from behind and chucked him to the floor. Cole tried to act like it was the biggest upset ever, which drew laughs from Lawler. Miz then tried to force Bryan to apologize to Cole, but Bryan shook off Miz and chucked him across the announce table into Cole's lap. Bryan jumped back into the ring and smiled for an appreciative crowd while having an eager look on his face to get a bigger piece of Miz. Miz recovered to his feet and huffed and puffed while Bryan left the ringside area. Lawler comically told Cole to get up. Lawler recapped Bryan making a big impression on a one-day contract. They continued to focus on Bryan and Miz on opposite sides of the ringside area before cutting to break.

WINNER: Miz at 2:02. A good development in the storyline despite the inherent flaws of creating a storyline focused on a non-wrestler who has to switch back and forth between a heel announcer and trusted play-by-play announcer on the same show. They left it open-ended on the future of the program, with Bryan being "signed to a one-day contract" on Raw. We'll see where this is going. I question WWE giving away the first match between Miz and Bryan on free TV without hype, but this program still has legs to it. (*)

4 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA & EVAN BOURNE vs. EDGE & SHEAMUS

Cena started things off as Bourne smiled from the apron. Edge started for the heel team and they locked up center ring. Edge controlled things from the start before Cena came back with a flying bulldog. Bourne then tagged in and landed a double foot smash from the second rope. Bourne worked over Edge's left shoulder before Edge smashed him in the back with a forearm smash. Bourne suddenly came flying off the ropes with a snap head scissors into rapid-fire leg attacks. Edge rolled to the outside to recover as they cut to break.

Back from break, Edge was working over Bourne as Cena was looking for a tag. Edge knocked Bourne to the floor and did a number on him before tagged in Sheamus back in the ring. Sheamus stomped on Bourne before elevating him for a big suplex. Bourne fought out with a knee to the shoulder, though, and he kicked Sheamus with body shots before teasing a hot tag to Cena. The crowd bought the hot tag as Bourne wiggled his fingers close to Cena before Sheamus yanked him away and nailed a Polish hammer for a two count. The heels went back to isolating Bourne as the crowd chanted, "Cena." Edge mockingly did his rock 'n roll hand signal, which has a much different meaning in Austin referencing Hook 'Em Horns, to draw heat. Bourne teased another hot tag before running into a big boot by Edge for another two count.

The match continued to the top of the hour with Edge settling into a chinlock on Bourne. Bourne broke free, then smashed Edge with an enziguiri. Cena played to the hot crowd giving them a big look to cheer on Bourne inching toward the corner. Bourne finally hopped across the ring and tagged in Cena, who exploded on Sheamus and did his routine. Cena did the You Can't See Me before delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus blocked and hit a powerslam. Sheamus teased the pump kick, but Cena ducked and Bourne blasted Sheamus with an enziguiri from the apron. Cena then dropped Sheamus with the Attitude Adjustment center ring. Edge tried a spear out of nowhere, but Cena side-stepped him and Edge spilled to the floor. The crowd was going nuts at this point with Cena tagging in Bourne, who went up top and nailed the Air Bourne splash on Sheamus. Bourne made the pin for the win to a big pop.

Post-match: Cena celebrated with Bourne for a minute or two as the announcers talked up Cena's pick to replace Orton tonight. They replayed the finish with several replays of Bourne's finisher before cutting back to Cena and Bourne celebrating in the ring. Cena gave Bourne the floor to get his shine before the show wrapped up with Cena and Bourne standing tall in the ring.

WINNERS: Cena & Bourne at 11:16. They tried to make a star in one night here. It was fitting, as the show started with an angle trying to involve Evan Bourne in a big program, then finishing with Bourne looking like a big star getting in his finisher and standing next to Cena. The crowd was hot for the main event to create some energy for the formula finish that worked well for this show with two weeks remaining to build to the PPV. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2010, 09:31 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report.) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41687.shtml)

1 -- WADE BARRETT (w/Chris Jericho) vs. DAVID OTUNGA (R-Truth) vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Matt Hardy) -- elimination-style triple threat match

They went to the ring for the beginning of the NXT Rookie three-way match. Mathews said he would send Gabriel home first and he agrees with the Pros that he might be a one-trick pony. Barrett started working over the other two Rookies while Jericho shouted words of affirmation from ringside. Cole said they've been informed about Season Two - Jericho interrupted Cole's plug to comically scream at the announcers to focus on the match. Barrett scored a nearfall and Cole continued to be delayed on his announcement. He then announced the Pros will have 50 percent of the vote and the WWE Universe will have the other 50 percent in Season Two's voting.

Otunga knocked Gabriel to the outside, then rolled him back into the ring to score a nearfall. Meanwhile, Barrett was holding his ankle in pain ringside. Barrett then re-entered, but he was knocked off the ring apron with a knee from Gabriel. Gabriel put Otunga in the corner and hit the big 450 splash from the top rope. He had the pin, but Barrett yanked Gabriel out of the ring and scored the pin on Otunga himself. Otunga is eliminated. Barrett stared down at Gabriel, who was selling ringside and Hardy talked him up before they cut to break.

Back from break, Barrett was working over Gabriel in the ring. Meanwhile, the eliminated Rookies sat with arms folded ringside. On the stage, the Pros were shown selling intense interest in the match while Punk had his head down taking notes. Barrett continued to work over Gabriel, who avoided a corner attack and smashed Barrett with multiple kicks. Gabriel then went to the corner for a springboard cross-body that Barrett sold beautifully and Gabriel scored a two count. Jericho continued to shout instructions from the outside as Gabriel scored another nearfall. Gabriel dropped Barrett with an STO, then went up top looking for his finisher, but Barrett got his knees up. That was a crunching counter. They both seemed to remain frozen with Gabriel on top of Barrett, who then rolled up Gabriel with a small package to score the win.

WINNER: Barrett in 10:00. Decent match once they removed Otunga from the equation. We'll see if the outcome has any bearing on the elimination. Wins and losses haven't really mattered thus far, so why should it start to matter now?

And the worst kept secret...Wade Barrett wins the first NXT competition. Otunga was 2nd but deserved to be 6th and Gabriel 3rd which is about right.

The complete list of NXT Pros and Rookies pairings for Season Two beginning next week is as follows:

NXT Rookie - WWE Pro

-- Alex Riley mentored by The Miz.

-- Husky Harris mentored by Cody Rhodes. Harris is Duke Rotunda in FCW, the son of "I.R.S." Mike Rotunda.

-- Eli Cottonwood mentored by John Morrison.

-- Percy Watson mentored by MVP. Watson and Season One NXT Rookie Darren Young were the "South Beach Boys" in FCW.

-- Titus O'Neil mentored by Zack Ryder.

-- Kaval (Low-Ki) mentored by Women's champion(s) Layla and Michelle McCool.

-- Lucky Cannon (Johnny Prime) mentored by Mark Henry.

-- Michael McGillicutty mentored by Kofi Kingston. McGillicutty is Joe Hennig, the son of Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 05 2010, 08:49 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_41727.shtml") Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MARK HENRY vs. PRIMO COLON

Primo tried to go after Henry's early on, but Henry remained on his feet. Henry then knocked down Primo with a shoulderblock. He teased a big splash, but Primo moved and Henry ate the mat. Primo then went up top for a dropkick, but Henry flung him away. Primo kept trying to go after Henry's lower body to chop him down. He then went up top again, but Henry caught him in mid-air. Henry then planted Primo into the mat with the World's Strongest Slam for an emphatic victory. After the match, Henry struggled to the corner selling the leg work and stood on the bottom turnbuckle to salute the crowd. More shine for Henry put a wrap on the match.

WINNER: Henry in 3:00. Fine match accomplishing the goal of getting over Henry's power offense with the crowd into the action thanks to the pre-match activity by Henry. This is right about where Primo will be slotted for a while until WWE finds another way to utilize him post-Carlito reunion. (*)

2 -- GAIL KIM vs. JILLIAN HALL

Good action to start with some fast-paced offense from both sides in the beginning of the match. Gail then nailed a monkey flip and corner leg whip that floored Jillian. Gail then executed a nice head scissors coming through the ropes to the floor. Gail tried to follow with more offense on the outside, but Jillian cut her off. Back in the ring, Jillian went to work on Gail. Per the match formula, the story unfolded where Jillian got cocky working over Gail, giving Gail an opening to take back control. Gail tried to execute a superplex for the big finish, but Jillian blocked and dropped Gail to the mat for a nearfall. Gail then regrouped and executed her Eat Defeat jawbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gail in 5:00. Nice match with a good flurry of offense from both sides from start to the finish. It's nice to see Jillian on Superstars where she's given time and opportunity to have a good match and not limited to a one-note gimmick on Raw. Of course, she probably wouldn't be on TV if she didn't have the recognizable "Britney Spears/Brooke Hogan parody" act that WWE likes to write into Raw guest-hosting bits. Meanwhile, Gail continues to just bide her time looking for an opportunity. (*1/2)

3 -- Co-Women's champion MICHELLE McCOOL (w/Co-Women's champion Layla) vs. TIFFANY -- non-title match

McCool chucked Tiffany to the outside early on, drawing taunts from Layla ringside. McCool then delivered a knee to the side of Tiffany's face, driving her into the announce table. Tiffany barely made it back into the ring before a ten count and McCool went back to work on Tiffany. Tiffany made a comeback moments later and executed a monkey flip out of the corner. Tiffany delivered an emphatic kick to the mid-section before attempting a sunset flip pin, but McCool blocked and smashed Tiffany with the Styles Clash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: McCool in 3:00. Decisive win for McCool here. Tiffany is developing well as an in-ring wrestler and will probably be counted on to fill a void on the babyface side of the Women's division on Smackdown. (*)

4 -- CHRISTIAN vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Christian scored an early one count and Chavo huffed and puffed to sell frustration. They reset with Christian scoring a back body drop before coming off the second rope with a missile dropkick for another one count. The announcers talked up Vickie's new association with Dolph Ziggler, prompting Striker to reference the Kerwin White days when Dolph was a caddy for Chavo. Ugh. Christian knocked Chavo to the outside, then hit a plancha on the floor. Christian re-entered the ring to wait for Chavo, but Vickie walked out on-stage. After excusing herself, she booked a two-on-one handicap match. Vickie welcomed out Dolph Ziggler as Chavo's partner to stack the deck against Christian. Playing up his heel persona, Chavo gloated and acted tough now with the advantage before they cut to break.

4b -- CHRISTIAN vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Back from break, Dolph and Chavo tagged in and out working over Christian, who was on the defensive. Ziggler then missed with a corner attack and Christian landed his pendulum kick to begin his comeback. Christian dropped Dolph with a flapjack then his usual sunset flip springing off the second turnbuckle for a two count. Christian fought off both heels, then went up top and airballed a cross-body splash. Chavo then tagged in with a springboard dive to the mid-section. Chavo then wanted the Three Amigos suplex, but Christian countered the third and dropped Chavo with an inverted facebuster.

They went to the finish where Chavo countered the Killswitch and executed a snap suplex. Chavo went up top for the Frogsplash, but Christian moved out of the way. (Before Chavo tried his finisher, though, Dolph blind-tagged into the match.) Christian then hit the Killswitch on Chavo, but Dolph caught him from behind with the Zig-Zag. Dolph, as the legal man, made the pin on Christian for the win. Backstage, Vickie looked on approvingly watching from a monitor. After a replay of the finish, Dolph and Chavo celebrated the victory and the announcers plugged Smackdown tomorrow night before the show closed with another shot of Vickie backstage.

WINNERS: Chavo & Dolph in 14:00 overall. Decent main event focusing on Dolph. Christian had his "out" faced with a stacked deck, which was fine. WWE apparently believes the ticket for Dolph elevating up the ladder on Smackdown is for him to be paired with the "heat magnet" Vickie Guerrero. We'll see if it works out better than it did for Vickie's most-recent beau, Eric Escobar. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 05 2010, 11:53 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_41753.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP

Swagger wore an Oklahoma jersey to the ring to antagonize the fans. Swagger worked MVP into a waist-lock, which is the way a lot of matches seem to be starting lately. The two argued after MVP countered with a back elbow. Slap to the face of Swagger, who then took a powder on the outside. Cover only for two by MVP. He got the champ in a side-headlock, but Swagger broke out of it in the corner and dished out some punishment. Boot to the head by MVP sent Swagger to ringside. They took a break under four minutes into the match.

The match continued in a back-and-forth fashion until MVP was sent shoulder-first into the ring post. He was nearly counted out. MVP fought back, but was booted down. Swagger missed a charge and MVP connected on a few clotheslines. Powerslam by Swagger for a near fall. Vader Bomb from Swagger for two. Of course, Todd Grisham thought it was over. Back to work on the arm went Swagger. Forearms and elbows were sent into the face of Swagger to break things up a bit. Swagger got thrown over MVP's head, and then the elbowdrop. Belly-to-belly by Swagger, and I don't think he even got MVP's feet off the mat on that one. Vader Bomb, but no, MVP countered. Running boot in the corner missed, and Swagger rolled MVP up for the win.

WINNER: Swagger, at 15:00. Good showcase for MVP.

Curt Hawkins attacked MVP after the match. MVP fended him off until he ran into a big boot from Vance Archer. They only have a few weeks left to make an impact on Smackdown.

2 - DREW MCINTYRE vs. KOFI KINGSTON - INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE MATCH

McIntyre was predictably aggressive at the outset. Monkey flip by Kofi, then he leapt onto Drew's shoulders for some punches in the corner. The ref backed Kingston out of the corner, allowing McIntyre to boot Kofi down. While he was on offense, Matt Hardy made his way through the crowd, showing off the ticket he bought to get in the arena. He stood at ringside as they went to break.

McIntyre stayed on the offensive, and the fight even went to the floor. Surfboard-like move by Mac, but Kingston flipped out of it. McIntyre was back on top before long, but he made the mistake of paying attention to Matt Hardy. Kofi began to come back with all his trademark moves, and got a crucifix pin for two. Boom Drop, then he set up for the Trouble in Pardise, but Mac dodged it and went to the outside. Kingston missed a cross-body out there, and McIntyre took a cheap shot at Hardy, back-handing him across the face. Security had to hold Hardy back. Back in the ring, Kingston hooked on the SOS and picked up the win.

WINNER: Kingston, at 13:26. Not a big fan of the finish, since McIntyre just had the advantage on the outside. Hardy did distract him, but he needs to be beaten down for that finish to work, because it takes Kingston a few seconds to lock it in. Match was good.

3 - ROSA MENDES vs. KELLY KELLY

Kelly got the advantage early, but then LayCool walked out on the stage to observe Smelly Kelly. Mendes locked Kelly in a head-scissors on the mat. Kelly turned things around with some clotheslines and booted Mendes in the chest on a corner charge. Splash off the top for two. Mendes tried a neck-breaker, but Kelly turned it into a Fameasser for the win.

WINNER: Kelly, at 2:57. Looked like two women on the second day of wrestling school.

4 - BATTLE ROYAL TO DETERMINE THE FINAL SPOT IN THE FATAL FOUR-WAY TITLE MATCH AT THE FATAL FOUR-WAY PPV

Other participants include: Chavo Guerrero, Trent Baretta, Caylen Croft, Vance Archer, Luke Gallows, JTG, Chris Masters, and MVP. Nobody eliminated in the first minute or so. Kane almost got Christian out, and MVP booted Vance Archer down. Punk was on the outside, and Mysterio ran out to try to unmask him. Gallows aided Punk, but Mysterio got the best of Gallows. Luke was still on the outside, but Rey made it back in the ring before the break.

Back with more battle royal fun. Doesn't look like anyone has been eliminated. And I don't remember Shad ever being entered. Chavo and Hawkins teamed up on Kane in the near corner. McIntyre wanted a piece of that as well. Gallows seemed to come to the aid of Kane when everyone was trying to toss him. Croft and Masters were eliminated about seven minutes in, and Baretta got sent out as well. Then it was JTG next. Fast and furious eliminations in the last 30 seconds. Kane and Gallows threw hands with each other, with Kane getting the better of the exchange. Kingston and McIntyre were both eliminated, via a Cactus clothesline by Kofi. That was about 8:30 in. Archer and Gallows almost had Rey out. Huge pop for him slipping back in. Ziggler locked the sleeper on Finlay. Christian ended up tossing Ziggler, however. A distraction by said Ziggler led to Finlay dumping Christian. Really, Finlay? Anyway, they went to break with Ziggler and Christian arguing on the outside.

Most of the men were lying on the ground back from break. Again, we missed no eliminations. Rey missed the 619 on Chavo, but Rey ended up eliminating him with the headscissors at about 14:00. Finlay tried to get rid of Rey, but Rey held on to Finlay's neck. Finlay ended up flattening Rey in the ring in lieu of an elimination. MVP punched away at Hawkins, then went after Archer. Vance didn't take kindly to that. MVP, Archer, Finlay and Hawkins all went out in short order, which left us with Kane, Mysterio and Gallows. The hooded stranger kicked Kane in the back, which allowed Gallows to throw him over the top. But Kane held on, threw the masked man aside, and grabbed Gallows by the throat. He pushed him over the top at 17:00. Clothesline by Kane on Mysterio. Kane dropped Rey chest-first onto the top rope, and Rey barely held on to stay in. He was booted down when he was back in the ring. Mysterio landed on Kane and hit the 619. But he jumped into a chokeslam attempt. Rey countered with a headscissors that sent Kane over the top and to the floor.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 19:39. Not bad for a battle royal. The right man won, too, though Kane's character could be rejuvenated a bit with his Taker bit.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 09 2010, 01:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41801.shtml) This report condensed to in-ring results however I'll put up another post covering the final moments of RAW.

1 -- BIG SHOW vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- Bodyslam Challenge match

Big Show comically opened up wide for Jericho to attempt a bodyslam, but Jericho slapped Show across the face. Show turned angry and chopped Jericho across the chest. Show then missed with a corner attack and Jericho attempted a bodyslam, but Show laughed in his face and landed a headbutt. Show fired himself up and teased the KO Punch, so Jericho quickly rolled to the outside to avoid the finish. Show then palmed Jericho's head like a basketball to bring him back into the ring, but Jericho kicked him away and started working over Show's right shoulder. This turned into Jericho slugging away at Show's shoulder before Show swatted Jericho to the mat like a flyswatter. Show then caught Jericho in mid-air and delivered a simple bodyslam center ring for the anti-climatic win.

Post-match: Show slapped on his modified Camel Clutch and Jericho started tapping out. Show kept it locked in, then Justin Roberts erroneously announced: "Winner via submission, Big Show." This is a mess so far. Show then dumped Jericho over the top rope to the floor to "win" the over-the-top-rope challenge stipulation as well. Jericho just shook his head on the floor while Show left the ring.

WINNER: Show at 2:53. Big Show in the opener having a slow-motion, standing "match" isn't how I would have opened the show. I'm waiting to see where this Jericho storyline goes with him on an unofficial losing streak and looking like a sad figure lately. (n/a)

2 -- Unified tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. GREAT KHALI & HORNSWOGGLE

Khali and Kidd started things off, with Khali dominating the proceedings. Big Show, then Khali in the opening matches isn't the best way to keep viewers tuned in. Hornswoggle then tagged in and airballed a Tadpole splash. Smith ran into the ring and knocked Khali off the apron, then Kidd made a soft, safe pin on Hornswoggle for the win.

Post-match: The Usos and Tamina hit the ring. The three-on-three brawl was on. This time, the Hart Dynasty knocked the Usos out of the ring and stood tall. The Usos backed away and sold the fight would continue another day.

WINNERS: HD at 1:20. They kept the match as short as possible trying to avoid killing the babyface momentum for Hart Dynasty up against the "likable" freak show duo of Hornswoggle and Khali. (n/a)

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. KOZLOV -- Dance-off

Santino was given the dance floor first. Cue up some light techno music and Santino attempted some break-dancing moves. He busted out the Carlton, of course, followed by the Cobra dance. I'm surprised no water sprinkler or shopping cart. The crowd popped after Santino finished his deal. Kozlov said he is a serious contender and something else. Kozlov said he is more stronger and faster. Cue up Kozlov's dance opportunity. Some hard techno music hit and Kozlov started doing the robot with a moonwalk, followed by the electric slide. Kozlov took Scotty 2 Hotty's Worm before showing off some flexibility. Santino was shocked. "Vintage Kozlov," Cole declared. Striker polled the audience. Santino was booed. Kozlov won and he flexed his ab muscles. Kozlov then danced with Santino like they were on "Dancing With The Stars." Santino tried to jump into Kozlov's arms, but Kozlov head-butted him to the ring, smiled, and walked out of the ring.

WINNER: Kozlov. Kozlov has assumed Chris Masters's role on Raw as the big, muscular wrestler with a "hidden talent" gimmick to get a laugh and lose credibility as a wrestler.

4 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL

Bodies started flying out of the ring in the first two minutes before it settled on Eve in a perilous situation with Maryse and Jillian Hall. Maryse and Hall worked over Eve before dumping her over the top rope to the floor. Jillian celebrated the "victory" with Maryse, who didn't want Jillian to share in her spotlight. Maryse then unceremoniously dumped Jillian to the floor to pick up the victory and bask in her own glory.

WINNER: Maryse at 3:50. As expected to continue the feud between Maryse and Eve and reinforce Maryse's heel character. (n/a)

5 -- KANE vs. SHEAMUS

Kane knocked Sheamus to the floor early on and worked him over. Kane tried a top rope move, but Sheamus crotched him. He then executed a running powerslam taking Kane off the top. Impressive. Sheamus scored a nearfall and they went to break with Sheamus in control. It was the first time in 73 minutes there was a sense of urgency on the show.

Back from break, Kane blasted Sheamus with a boot to the head ala Sheamus's pump kick before continuing the attack on Sheamus. Kane landed a double foot-dropkick to the face for a two count as the announcers continued to talk up the Undertaker storyline. Kane then teased a chokeslam, but Sheamus kicked him away. Kane regrouped and tried again, but Sheamus slipped out and hit a reverse DDT backbreaker across his knee. Sheamus then measured Kane for the pump kick, but Kane moved and Kane threw Sheamus over the top rope to the floor. Sheamus returned to the ring and, this time, he took the chokeslam.

After taking the chokeslam, Sheamus rolled out of the ring and fell face-first on the floor. The ref began a ten count and Sheamus initially tried to re-enter, but decided to hop off the apron and walk away. Kane wins via count-out. "Coward!" Kane shouted at Sheamus, who disappeared to the back. Kane then angrily left the ring as the "investigation continues" with Taker's assault.

WINNER: Kane via count-out at 7:25. A step-up in the ring on this show after some poor matches in the first hour of the show. WWE is certainly selling the audience on Kane right now, as evidenced by the voting for this match. (*1/2)

6 -- U.S. champion R-TRUTH & JOHN MORRISON vs. THE MIZ & ZACK RYDER

Truth started off working against Miz, then Morrison tagged in and double-teamed Miz. Truth re-entered as the babyfaces worked over Miz until Miz blasted Truth with a boot to the face. Cole plugged Season Two of NXT as Ryder worked over Truth. Miz and Ryder then tagged in and out working over Truth for a few minutes. Miz then yanked off Truth's shoe and Truth hot-tagged Morrison, who cleaned house on Miz. Morrison landed a flying knee strike on Miz, but Ryder broke up the pin. Truth hopped into the ring with one shoe before Ryder sent him flying to the outside. The action broke down before Miz dropped Morrison with the Skullcrushing Finale for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Ryder at 3:21. Basic, short Raw tag match. The audience lost interest early on after the pairings were announced. WWE is selling the audience on the "sizzle" of the pairings or stips or match-ups being announced, but the audience isn't interested in the "steak" of the match-ups.

7 -- EDGE vs. RANDY ORTON -- One-arm match

After they briefly danced around the ring, Orton ran over Edge with his free left shoulder before stomping on Edge. Orton then started pounding on the mat with his one good arm. He teased a one-arm RKO, but Edge shoved him off. Edge then reached behind his back and untied the knot. Apparently the ref didn't pay attention in Boy Scout's. Now free, Edge attacked Orton and the ref called for a DQ.

After the DQ, Edge went to the corner and teased the Spear, but Orton blocked with a kick to the head. (Note, not a Punt.) Edge rolled to the outside and Orton tried to follow out, but Edge smashed Orton. Edge then retrieved a chair and measured Orton for a chair shot to the shoulder. Orton convulsed and sold pain as Edge ripped his hair out to sell the angle. Edge smiled and walked away from ringside as Orton winced in pain. They replayed Edge's attack on Orton before showing Edge smiling from the stage. Orton came to his feet and sold the shoulder injury as the announcers talked in quiet tones.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 1:35. It was what it was to stack the deck against Orton as one of the challengers in the PPV main event. (n/a)

8 -- MATT HARDY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre screamed at Long after the bell sounded, then Hardy tackled McIntyre and knocked him to the outside. Hardy took the fight to the announce table and knocked him into Cole and Lawler's laps. Hardy rammed McIntyre into the ringpost, then took him back into the ring. Hardy landed the Twist of Fate and scored a pinfall for the win. Post-match, Hardy continued to blast away at McIntyre before grabbing some of Mac's hair. Hardy stared at the hair with a psychotic look on his face while McIntyre rolled away and regrouped on the stage.

WINNER: Hardy at 1:24. Hardy scored his "revenge match victory" with three weeks of TV packed into a five-minute segment, but apparently the feud continues. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 09 2010, 01:30 am
9 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK (w/Luke Gallows and Serena) -- non-title match

Cena went for Punk's mask early on and Punk bailed to the floor to complain to the ref. Cena tried again and Punk bailed to the outside again. Punk then cut off Cena and went to the mat with submission holds wearing down Cena. Cena teased a comeback, but SES nipped at Cena's heels from the outside to allow Punk to regain control heading to break.

Back from break, Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk slipped out and hit a DDT for a two count. Punk then knocked Cena to the outside and Serena kicked Cena in the gut with the ref's attention held by Punk in the ring. Back in the ring, Cena fired up his big comeback and did the usual routine. Suddenly, Wade Barrett walked out on stage as Cena teased the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Punk had to hold his place for a long time before Cena delivered his trademark move. Barrett slowly started walking to the ring and Cena turned his back on Punk.

Caldwell's version of the end via PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_41801.shtml)

Suddenly, Michael Tarver was shown hopping the guardrail. Season One NXT Rookies then surrounded the ring taking out the SES as Cena stood dumbfounded in the ring. Barrett then led the NXT Rookies onto the ring apron. They surrounded Cena before slowly walking into the ring. David Otunga floored the ref and Cena stood in the middle of all of them. Cena then attacked Barrett, but an eight-on-one brawl broke out.

WINNER: No Result at 10:14.

Post-match: Cena tried to fight them off as all eight ganged up on Cena. Barrett started directing traffic. Of note, all eight of them were wearing "N" armbands like they're part of a gang. The Rookies then attacked Striker and Lawler ringside. They over-turned the announce table and started creating havoc ringside. Justin Roberts was victimized here. Barrett then started ripping away the ring apron and the turnbuckles. Daniel Bryan ripped off Roberts's shirt and choked him by his tie.

Cena was left alone in the ring as chaos was everywhere. Cena tried to fight back in the ring, but Tarver KO'ed him. Otunga then dropped Cena with a uranage in what was left of the ring. The Rookies started hitting finishing moves on Cena before Darren Young picked up Cena and fed him to Slater for a big knock-down clothesline. Cena was lifeless here. Punk then tried to enter the ring, but Bryan secured him and the Rookies started pounding on Punk. The announcers were nowhere to be found, so it was raw sound in the arena. The Rookies then fed Cena to Skip Sheffield, who delivered a big knock-down clothesline. Slater choked Cena with a turnbuckle before Bryan shouted down at Cole that he is not better than him. Cena slowly got up to his knees and Bryan spit in his face. Bryan then delivered a kick strike to the back.

[Q13 -- over-run] The Rookies picked up Cena and fed him to Barrett, who landed his rolling bodyslam. Gabriel then went up top and delivered his big 450 Splash from the corner to a big thud. Apparently everyone in the back was being held hostage by the A-Team. The Rookies then left the ring, with the ring a total mess and Cena out cold in the middle of the ring. Cena opened his eyes to show signs of life before the camera panned the ringside area where bodies were everywhere.

Medics entered the ring checking on Cena, who remained out cold. The announcers ringside were shown stirring slightly before a stretcher was brought to the ring for Cena. Cena was placed on a backboard as they showed concerned fans watching ringside. It was quite surreal for the PG era of Raw with no announcers and raw sound in the arena. The camera cut to more shots of chaos ringside before showing Cena strapped down on the backboard. Cena was then put on a stretcher and wheeled away from ringside. They wheeled him up the entrance ramp. The camera cut to a shot of WWE staffers removing the announce table that had Lawler trapped underneath. It's worth noting Michael Cole kinda disappeared during the melee. Cena was shown being taken away to the back as they ended the show five minutes past the top of the hour.

CLOSING THOUGHTS: One of the worst episodes of Raw of the year (even worse than the MacGruber Volcano Raw) ended with an amazing angle involving the NXT Rookies. Apparently the NXT Eight are forming a gang to dominate Raw. I'm all for it, as it added a sense of realism to the show after the first three hours of the show were a complete disaster. The audience that stuck around to the end certainly has reason to tune in for the follow-up next week[/u] (and possibly on NXT tomorrow night). Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up will make or break this.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 23 2010, 01:26 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42105.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only save for the final segment of RAW.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Cole started listing Jericho's accolades in the "sports entertainment industry" going back 20 years. Suddenly, Bourne scored an early nearfall on a backslide attempt. Jericho then ducked out of the ring and retreated to the floor to catch a breather. Lawler asked why Jericho put this kind of pressure on himself as they cut to break.

Back from break, Jericho's career was over. Okay, just kidding, but what if the match ended during the break? Anyways, they recapped Jericho taking control during the break, leading to him applying a mat submission in the ring. Bourne then scored a close nearfall attempting a roll-up before Jericho dropkicked Bourne to the outside. Lawler stressed the WWE talking point that the young stars are on the rise trying to take top spots, including Jericho's. Bourne made it back into the ring at a nine count, then Jericho stomped on him before landing right hand blows.

Jericho teased a vertical suplex, but Bourne landed a knee strike and scored another nearfall on a roll-up attempt. Bourne then hit a spin kick, followed by a leaping kick strike. He followed with a double-foot smash for a nearfall. Suddenly, Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho, but Bourne rolled onto his side and executed a DDT out of a guillotine for a two count. Jericho then went back on the offensive, cutting off Bourne with more mat-based submissions.

Jericho cut off Bourne in the corner and went to the second rope for an axehandle, but Bourne suddenly came to his feet and jumped onto Jericho for a snap huracanrana resulting in a close two count. Bourne tried to follow with his trademark offense, but Jericho countered into the Walls of Jericho. Bourne teased tapping out, then Jericho yanked him back to center ring. Bourne then crawled across the ring toward the bottom rope with the big determined face before a final lunge to break the hold. Great sequence. Bourne suddenly hit an enzguiri from the apron that put Jericho out in the corner. Bourne tried to follow with the Air Bourne, but Jericho got his knees up at the last split-second to block. Jericho immediately followed with the codebreaker and scored a pin for the win.

Post-match: Jericho showed more confidence after finally getting his win. That smirk was back. Jericho started to leave the ring, but he walked over to Bourne and picked him up. Jericho helped him to his feet before pie-facing Bourne to shove him back to the mat. Jericho smirked again and left the ring while Bourne sold the code breaker to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Jericho at 10:40. Given time, these two have made magic the last two nights. Another awesome match that really continued Bourne's momentum despite him losing, with Bourne countering Jericho's offense over and over before Jericho finally got an opening. Let's hope for a third real match (fourth overall) in the series. (***1/4)

2 -- TAMINA (w/Uso Brothers) vs. NATALYA (w/Unified tag champions Hart Dynasty)

After a back-and-forth opening to the match, the NXT Rookies suddenly walked out through the crowd to interrupt. Wade Barrett then grabbed a mic and said they just want to apologize nice and clean. Kidd wanted nothing to do with that and tried a flip dive onto the Rookies ringside. The Rookies proceeded to beat down Kidd and leave HD out cold ringside. Darren Young and Wade Barrett then walked into the ring as they cut to break.

WINNER: No Decision in 2:00.

3 -- JOHN MORRISON (w/Eli Cottonwood) vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Titus O'Neil)

Ryder cut off Morrison early on and went to work on Morrison's upper body. Morrison then blocked a neckbreaker into a roll-up for a two count. Ryder came back with a knock-down palm thrust before going back to work with a chinlock. Morrison broke free, then hit a step-up enziguiri for a two count. Morrison then made a full comeback with his athletic offense before Ryder rolled to the ring apron and snapped Morrison throat-first across the tope. Ryder tried to follow with the Rough Ryder, but Morrison blocked with a powerbomb. Morrison then followed with his Starship Pain finisher out of the corner for the win. Post-match: Morrison gave Eli some instructions, then Eli tried to celebrate by standing on the turnbuckles, but Morrison slowed him down and said he's not ready for that.

WINNER: Morrison at 4:24. Morrison needs to clean up the execution of his finisher, as the impact of the move looks like a mid-match transition hold, not a finisher to win a match. The match was in a tough spot as the "comedown match" of the show just trying to get some Raw mid-carders on TV. (*1/4)

4 -- GREAT KHALI & EVE TORRES vs. PRIMO & Divas champion ALICIA FOX

Cole said Alicia Fox was smiling from ear to ear in the locker room all day today after winning the Divas Title at the PPV. What was Cole doing in the women's locker room? Khali and Primo set up to start things off, but Primo tagged out to Alicia, which meant Eve had to tag in. Eve and Alicia traded offense, then Alicia cut off Eve and began a methodical attack. Alicia tried to set up a corner attack, but Eve cut her off and hit a top rope moonsault. Primo broke up a pin attempt and apparently re-entered himself into the contest. That meant Khali had to tag in. Primo begged off and dropped down to both knees. He then came to his feet and tried a forearm, but Khali shook him off. Meanwhile, Alicia took off to the back with her title, wanting no part of this. Khali chopped Primo, then gave him a big Punjabi Plunge for the pin and the win. Primo sold it as if he were a body outline at a crime scene. Eve and Khali then danced to conclude another awkward pairing for Eve following Chris "pec dance" Masters.

WINNERS: Eve & Khali at 3:58. Part of the "variety" format to the Raw show. Harmless filler replacing what would have been a lame Raw GM skit. (*)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 23 2010, 01:26 am
5 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match -- Vince McMahon special ref

Sheamus quickly cut off Cena and went on the attack as Cole talked about Sheamus taking out Triple H, possibly for good. Suddenly, the males 18-34 woke up and started a loud "Cena Sucks" chant opposed to the kids on summer break with a "Let's Go Cena" chant. Sheamus continued to dominate and he chucked Cena to the floor. They cut to break with Sheamus in control.

Back from break, Cena landed body shots, but missed with a corner attack and ate the ringpost. Cena slowly rolled to the ring apron as Sheamus slowly came to his feet. Sheamus missed with a running knee strike, but he cut off Cena in the ring with a running clothesline. Meanwhile, Lawler speculated who the new Raw GM is. Sheamus continued a nice, methodical attack on Cena, who kept selling the effects to build to that inevitable comeback.

Cena and Sheamus then landed a double knock-down clothesline taking both men to the mat. Ref Doane started a ten count and both men came to their feet at seven. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Sheamus countered into a standing powerslam for a two count. And Sheamus regained control of the match. Sheamus teased the Pump Kick, but Cena ducked and started his big comeback routine. Cena sold Sheamus's body work as he set up and dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle.

Cena tried the AA, but Sheamus raked the eyes and hit the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count only. Sheamus regrouped, then tried his Outsider's Edge drop, but Cena slipped out and immediately countered with the STF. Sheamus teased a tap out, but eventually grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Sheamus rolled to the floor and Cena tried to follow, but Sheamus sent him into the ring steps with a drop toe hold. Sheamus rolled Cena back into the ring at the top of the hour. Sheamus made a cover, but Cena kicked out, which popped the pro-Cena crowd. Sheamus sold frustration not scoring the victory, so he went to the outside and grabbed the ring steps. Sheamus randomly set up the ring steps half-way down the ring entrance. He then grabbed Cena, took him to the floor, and chucked him into the steel steps. Cena sold being KO'ed as Sheamus rolled him back into the ring and teased the Pump Kick. Cena got up, barely came to his feet, and then Sheamus creamed him with the Pump Kick when he turned around.

Suddenly, the NXT Rookies hit the ringside area and cleared Sheamus, who took off running into the stands. The Rookies the grabbed Cena and pulled him to the outside. McMahon watched as the Rookies dumped the announce table onto Cena, ending his night. McMahon walked over to the Rookies and surveyed the scene with them, showing approval. McMahon then walked into the ring with mic in hand and told the Rookies to leave Cena alone. McMahon asked if Cena's still breathing, then he asked the Rookies to walk into the ring. McMahon smiled and put over "these extraordinary athletes," which drew boos. McMahon said he can't take full responsibility, but he can take partial responsibility for all their actions against Lawler, Cole, Hart (especially), and Cena. He asked for a round of applause for himself. McMahon said it's been interesting this week, but next week, the new GM will reveal something.

McMahon paused and stared down all of the Rookies, who were glaring at him. The crowd just yelled, not knowing how to react. McMahon then smiled and said they almost had him for a second. He said his life flashed before him. McMahon endorsed Barrett before some in the crowd chanted, "Daniel Bryan." McMahon laughed, paused, and said this is just about it. Let's call it a night. Suddenly, the Rookies circled McMahon again. McMahon shot them all funny faces as the Rookies remained standing in place.

Suddenly, they all jumped McMahon and beat him down in the ring. They fed McMahon to Tarver, who landed a big knock-down clothesline. Apparently the locker room went home for the evening. Barrett then gave McMahon his big slam finisher and McMahon crumbled to the ground. Barrett called for the 450 Splash and Gabriel went up top before staring down at McMahon. He took his time before nailing the 450 Splash on McMahon. The Rookies stared down at McMahon, then Barrett told them to leave. The crowd chanted, "NXT, NXT" as the Rookies left the ring satisfied with their work. They cut back to a shot of McMahon motionless in the ring. The cameraman shooting the shot of McMahon dropped his camera and called for some help out here. They cut back to a shot of McMahon out cold on the mat as the show ended.

WINNER: No Decision at 14:51 when the Rookies invaded. Good, heated title match before the non-finish, which was expected. The NXT angle brings up a whole lot of new questions, some that will make heads explode trying to make sense of everything, but it's good to see WWE continue the angle because of its mass potential if handled correctly going forward. Some questions to be answered... Obviously, the Rookies would have attacked McMahon because the storyline is he instructed the announcers and the NXT Pros to mock the Rookies and put them through horrible skits on the first season of NXT. But, now the NXTs are babyfaces after KO'ing McMahon, even though they were heels for KO'ing the top babyface? Also, now McMahon and Cena have common enemies, but McMahon allowed the Rookies to attack Cena. Also, was that it for Cena's re-match clause? And why did the anonymous Raw GM disappear after the opening segment? And, does anyone know what the concept will be for the Money in the Bank PPV in less than one month? And the one biggie that could solve this is whether the new mysterious Raw GM convinced/tricked McMahon into hiring him as GM, then the new GM "hired" the NXT Rookies to legally carry out an attack on McMahon (with Cena included, for whatever reason) as some sort of punishment for whatever sins McMahon committed against the new Raw GM. Or something to that effect.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2010, 04:36 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42135.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results save for final show segment.

1 -- MVP & PERCY WATSON vs. U.S. champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY

Cole said the first Pros voting will kick off right when they go on the air next week. Percy got the crowd warmed up before locking up with Riley. Riley landed a knock-down shoulder tackle and did a cocky pose on the turnbuckle to celebrate. A vocal minority in the crowd started a "Daniel Bryan" chant as Watson and MVP began working over Riley with double-team offense. MVP then knocked Riley to the outside and "Maradona" scolded Riley for screwing up. Miz told Riley he's supposed to be a star, so start acting like one. Miz then demanded a tag and Miz entered the ring. MVP gave a tag to Watson, so Miz jumped him near the ropes to catch him off guard. Miz and Riley began working over Watson as Miz talked trash to Percy. The crowd started an "MVP" chant as Cole repeated the NXT polls opening at the top of the show next week. Cole said he will be voting from ringside. Josh Mathews missed an opportunity to reference the Raw GM bit.

Anyways, MVP came in with a hot tag and cleaned house before hitting a jawbreaker on Riley. MVP then set up for the Ballin' elbow drop and connected. MVP wanted to finish, but Riley grabbed the ropes to block. He then tagged in Miz as Percy tagged in for MVP. Percy came in hot as his glasses flew off. He got a slow clap going with the live crowd before landing a big standing splash spot. Nice athleticism. MVP cleared Riley in the chaos, then Percy kind of telegraphed (told the audience what was coming) a throat-drop across the top rope. Miz then hit the Skull Crushing Finale on Watson for the pin and the win. Miz and Riley celebrated the victory as MVP checked on Watson in the post-match.

WINNERS: Miz & Riley in 7:00. Good opening match. Riley has "star" written all over him while Percy Watson showed good energy and the crowd is already catching on with his "high energy" gimmick. Watson is still a little green in the ring, especially telegraphing the pre-finish spot, but an overall good performance. (*1/4)

2 -- MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY (w/Kofi Kingston) vs. TITUS O'NEILL (w/Zack Ryder)

Mathews gave a quick note that Hennig is going with "McGillicutty" as his ring name to pay homage to his mom, whose maiden name is McGillicutty. Interesting fact to be checked. Titus dominated early on, then another "Daniel Bryan" chant started. Titus tried a Samoan Drop off the ropes, but Hennig fell off his shoulders and they both fell to the mat. Not a good spot. Titus then tried a big splash, but Hennig got his knees up to block. Hennig then hit a neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: McGillicutty in 3:00. Too short of a match to get a good read on Titus or a longer look at Hennig. Titus is rough-around-the-edges in the ring and they need to find a way to make him stand out. He could be easily forgotten on this season. (3/4*)

3 -- KAVAL (w/Lay-Cool) vs. ELI COTTONWOOD (w/John Morrison)

Kaval landed a martial arts kick trying to take Cottonwood off his feet, but Eli shook him off and chucked him face-first into the top turnbuckle. Cole said Eli's biggest problem is adjusting to "society" known as WWE. Mathews stereotyped Eli as a guy from the back woods. Cole told him to get out of his condo and experience the world. Meanwhile, Kaval tried a submission hold in the ropes, but Eli flung him away only to take a big springboard enziguiri kick. Kaval still couldn't take Eli off his feet despite multiple kick strikes. Kaval finally got him off his feet with a springboard double foot stomp to the neck. Kaval made a cover, but Eli kicked out. Kaval tried another high-risk move, but Eli grabbed him by the neck and landed sort of a lift-up facebuster chokeslam. It looked like a variation of one of Matt Morgan's "big man" finishing moves. Eli made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Morrison clapped it up for Cottonwood as Kaval walked out of the ring selling Eli's offense. Michelle McCool tried to check on Kaval like a mom checking on her kid stomping off after a tough little league loss. They showed Mark Henry stand up on the stage and applaud Kaval on the way out.

WINNER: Eli Cottonwood in 4:00. Kaval had a good amount of offense to retain some measure of credibility. He continues to show off his strong offensive repertoire and this wasn't a total squash, which was good to protect Kaval. (*)

4 -- CODY RHODES (w/Husky Harris) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Mark Henry)

The bell sounded and Cody pushed Lucky into the corner. He pointed to the clock on the video screen before paintbrushing Lucky to tell him what's up. Cody grabbed a headlock and worked over Lucky before pushing Lucky to the outside. Cole was tearing apart Lucky on commentary while Mathews tried to defend Lucky. Back in the ring, Lucky tried an amateur wrestling takedown, but Cody blocked and went back on the attack. Cody then put Lucky in position for Homicide's Gringo Killer, but maintained the hold as a great submission. Lucky suddenly tried to counter with a roll up, but Cody kicked out. At 3:00, Lucky landed a faceplant for a two count. Lucky not selling the submission is a mark against him. Lucky scored more offense before Rhodes smashed him with step-up enziguiri out of the corner. Cody then looked at the clock and smiled. He followed with the Cross Rhodes center ring. He made the cover with 1:02 left on the clock for the win. And Cole mocked Lucky. After a replay of the finish, they showed Henry trying to console Lucky. Cody celebrated ringside and mocked Striker, asking, "Hey, what happened?"

In-ring: Matt Striker was in the ring addressing all eight of the NXT Rookies. Kaval was still wearing his pink Lay-Cool shirt and selling Eli's offense. Striker plugged the polling coming up next week. He said he's giving the Rookies one last chance to win over the Pros and the fans. Alex Riley was first with 45 seconds. Riley cockily said he doesn't need to say anything after how impressive he's been so far. He said he doesn't have to beat up nerds in high school anymore because now he gets to beat up Rookies on a show called N-X-T. Riley went past his allotted time and Cole called him a mic hog.

Kaval was up next. Kaval stared down at the mat before smiling. He said ten years ago, he tried to get his foot in the door, but they told him he's too small. Ten years since then, here he is standing before the audience on NXT. That drew a mild cheer. Kaval said not only will be WWE's next breakout star, but he's going to prove it's not the size of the fighter...they cut off his mic before he could finish. Titus O'Neil gave the "working man's" promo stirring up the audience. Nice work.

Striker gave Joe Hennig the mic for his 45 seconds. Hennig said he made it a win again tonight. He said unlike his competition, he possesses no weaknesses. Hennig said his name is Michael McGillicutty and he is WWE's next breakout star. Eli Cottonwood was next. He said he'll remain in the shadows and strike with vengeance when the time is right. Eli said his actions will speak louder than any of his words. Percy Watson was up next to a strong reaction. "Hey, look here, baby," he said. Watson asked everyone if they like to have fun like him. "I'm a heavy hitter, but I'm not a quitter," he said. "I'm going to keep is shaking and moving, baby. I got two words....oh yeah."

Lucky Cannon was next as they hit seven minutes past the top of the hour. Lucky did his promo from the NXT video intro. After the cliche-o-meter exploded, Striker gave the mic to Husky Harris for his 45 seconds. Husky said he doesn't even need 45 seconds. He turned to walk away before blasting Striker with a forearm smash from behind. Husky then landed a running sentaun on Striker and he walked out of the ring with a self-satisfied look on his face.

Cole noted Husky is doing what his Pro, Cody Rhodes, did last week. Husky then walked up the ramp and walked to the back with Cody Rhodes, who looked at him approvingly. They showed Striker selling on the mat as the Rookies just stood over him. After a video recap of Husky's assault on Striker, the Rookies were shown just walking out of the ring. Some of the other Pros then walked down to the ring to check on Striker as the babyface Rookies decided to help Striker out of the ring to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2010, 10:38 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-24-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_42169.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CAYLEN CROFT (w/Trent Barreta)

Grisham gave a quick plug for the Fatal Four-Way PPV and gave a sidebar note that Rey Mysterio is the new World Hvt. champion. He phrased as if it Mysterio defeated Jack Swagger in a singles match. Trent tried to get involved from the outside early on, giving Crent an advantage. JTG then made his comeback and dropkicked Trent through the ropes. Back in the ring, JTG hit the Shout-Out on Croft for a decisive win.

WINNER: JTG in 4:00. Brief, pretty forgettable match. They just didn't have much time to stand out doing a basic four-minute TV match. And since WWE doesn't emphasize wins and losses mattering on a quest for titles or championship opportunities, the match was just there. (*1/4)

2 -- LUKE GALLOWS (w/Serena) vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Grisham and Striker continued the Fatal Four-Way conversation by discussing Kane singling out C.M. Punk at the PPV. Masters took early control of the match and they cut to break with Luke recovering on the outside.

Back from break, Masters shouted for the Masterlock. The big Gallows fought off Masters and rolled him to the apron. Luke followed by bumping him off the apron to the ground. On the floor, Luke sent Masters into the guardrail and brought him back into the ring. Luke continued to work over the back with a big splash off the ropes, but it was unsuccessful in a pin attempt. Masters then made his comeback and came off the second rope with a torpedo shoulder tackle for a two count.

Masters continued to sell the lower back before walking into a standing boot beneath the chin for a nearfall. Luke teased the Gallows Pole (not to be confused with the Gallup Pole), but Masters escaped and teased the Masterlock. It was unsuccessful, then Serena provided a distraction from the outside. Luke took advantage with a big Gallows Pole from the second rope and it was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gallows in 10:00. Good win for Gallows trying to stand out on his own. The match was fine with a solid back-and-forth at the end leading to the finish. (*1/2)

3 -- BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) vs. JILLIAN HALL

After an initial lock up, Jillian took control to begin dominating the action. Jillian attempted a handspring elbow drop, but it didn't connect. Brie made a comeback with a flurry of dropkicks before hitting sort of a falling neckbreaker. The action moved to the corner where Jillian blocked a top rope move with a roll-up for a two count. Back in the ring, Jillian dumped Brie over the top rope to the floor. The Bellas attempted the ol' switcheroo gimmick on the floor and Jillian laughed, thinking she had the con figured out. The ref then went to the floor to try to figure out which Bella is which to prevent the con. Back in the ring, Jillian stomped away on Brie, but the ref reprimanded her for not breaking a five count in the corner. The Bellas then did the real switcheroo behind the ref's back and Jillian walked into a trap for Nikki to score the pin for the win. And the Bellas use a classic short-con to take advantage of an easy mark for the win.

WINNER: Bellas in 4:00. About what you would expect here with the heel being made sport of and the crowd going along for the ride because it's more fun to watch someone else being taken advantage of. (3/4*)

4 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. R-TRUTH

Truth and Regal traded offense before Truth hit an early dropkick. He dropped to the mat selling a knee injury for the first transition in the match. Regal instantly went after the knee to get over his aggressive offensive attack. Regal hung Truth up in the middle rope by the knee and the ref reprimanded him. Regal just smiled, showing off his great facial expressions. Regal took too much time following up, which allowed Truth to tease a comeback. Regal cut him off and landed an exploder suplex. He then went for his Knee Trembler finisher, but Truth no-sold the suplex and popped up to his feet to hit the Lie Detector. Truth with the pin and the win. As Truth sold the knee injury, Cole gave a final plug for Raw, advertising mystery (GM) and chaos (NXT 7) on Monday night. They closed with a final shot of Truth celebrating to close the show.

WINNER: Truth in 7:00. Fine match with Regal on offense most of the time leading to Truth with the expected victory. Regal's role, like Goldust's, is to enhance the stars WWE is looking to feature on Monday nights. Sure, Regal could be better utilized, but this is his role in WWE right now. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2010, 10:41 am
TNA Impact! Results: 6-25-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42170.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)ANGELINA LOVE vs. VELVET SKY
Sky takes quick control, kicking Love out of the ring. Love yanks her outside with her, and punches her against the mat. She looks to shove Sky's head into the steps, but Sky reverses and Love takes a Foley-style leg first bump. She rolls Love back into the ring and slams her head against the mat and lays in with some stomps. She hits the "Skyliner", which is sort of a double-armed Union Jack. She does some trash talking and looks for a second, but Love twists away and floors Sky with a clothesline. She gets a chair from ringside. We're told that Hardy's out injured and tonight and Mr. Anderson will get Abyss in a hardcore match. Love hits the Botox Injection Bicycle Kick, but before she can follow up Sky pokes her in the eye and yanks her down. Sky sets up Love for a DDT onto the fallen chair, but before she can hit it Love slips out and nails one of her own.
WINNER: Velvet Sky by DQ in 4 minutes. Love signals that she only has one left to go. Rayne comes out to taunt her with the belt. Love invites her into the ring, but Rayne's not biting. Love points triumphantly to the fallen Sky, but Madison points out that that isn't her.

(2)KAZARIAN vs. JAY LETHAL
Now that Lethal comes out to his own music, he could really use some better tunes. Kazarian starts things off with a double leg takedown, but Lethal flips him out and nails an Arm Drag. Kazarian leap frogs over the ref to nail a forearm, then beats down Lethal in the corner. A Gut Wrench Slam barely gets one. Lethal gets up firing, so Kazarian rakes his eyes. Lethal keeps firing, but when he comes off the ropes he comes right into a Spine Buster for two. Kazarian drapes Lethal over the top rope and kicks him in the face. A cover gets two. Kaz nails a Body Slam and a Spingboard Leg Drop. He locks in a chin lock so that the camera can cut to Flair and Styles beating up Lethal's brother backstage. In the ring Lethal is powering out, shooting Kazarian off into a back elbow. Kazarian reverses an attempted whip, but just ends up eating a Hand Spring Elbow for his trouble. Lethal shoots Kazarian into the ropes, but Kaz hangs on and nails an elbow of his own. He goes for a low blow, but Lethal catches the arm and does a really cool sideways roll up that looks annoying familiar. It gets two. Kaz nails a Decapitator Clothesline as he gets up, and then most men get up firing. Lethal nails the first half of the Lethal Combo, but Kazarian blocks the Flatliner and nails one of his own for two. Kazarian looks for his reverse Piledriver, but it's quickly reversed into a Lethal Injection (the Suplex-into-a-Neck-Breaker version, not the old one) for three.
WINNER: Jay Lethal in five minutes.

(3)KURT ANGLE vs. DESMOND WOLFE
Angle gets a side wrist lock to start. Wolfe takes him down with a Snap Mare, but Angle maintains the hold. Wolfe reverses into a side headlock, but Kurt re-reverses back into the wrist lock. They trade holds a couple more times before Wolfe just elbows his way out. Wolfe locks in a Cobra Clutch and yanks Angle to the canvas. Angle tries to power to his feet, but Wolfe brings him back down. The second time Wolfe does that Kurt uses the momentum to roll into a hammerlock. Wolfe reverses into one of his own, forcing Kurt towards the rope. As Wolfe gives the rope break he kicks the top one into Angle's neck. Kurt comes back with an Arm Drag, but Wolfe stops him short with a Mongolian Chop. Kurt dodges a charge in the corner, but then whiffs on one of his own and nails the ringpost shoulder first. Wolfe hits a beautiful arm-bar type Suplex. He goes to argue with Chelsea. Angle tries to come at him, but gets taken down with an Arm Wrench Takedown. Angle goes for a Sunset Flip, but Wolfe blocks it with a wrench of the arm and then locks in a sort of Triangle Arm Lock. Angle almost gets a reversal into an Angle Lock, so Wolfe kicks him off. Angle gets up firing, taking down Wolfe with a Back Body Drop while still selling the arm. Wolfe gets a leg up to get some distance in the corner, but then runs right into an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex for two. Kurt goes for an Olympic Slam, but it's reversed into an Arm Drag. Wolfe tries to come back at Angle with a clothesline, but Kurt ducks underneath it and nails a trio of German Suplexes for a long two count. Kurt goes for the Olympic Slam again, but this time it's reversed with a Hammerlock Takedown. Kurt reverses an attempted whip into the corner. Wolfe elevates him up and over, but Kurt lands on the apron and goes to the top rope. Wolfe tries to cut him off with a Tower of London, but Kurt slips out and nails an Olympic Slam. Kurt drops the straps, cinches in the Angle Lock, then grapevines the legs. That's it.
WINNER: Kurt Angle in seven minutes. Great TV match, but I have no idea who's bright idea it was to give this away on free TV. Also, who did Wolfe piss off?

(4)BEER MONEY INC. vs. INK INC.
#1 Contenders Tournament Final
Shannon Moore comes down to the ring alone. The Motor City Machine Guns are on commentary, which should be good. Roode starts things off with a club to Moore's back. Moore comes off the ropes with a Hurricanrana, floors Roode again with a leg lariat, stops an interfering Storm with a dropkick, nails Roode with an Inverted Atomic Drop, punches Roode down, jumps over him into a Leg Drop, and makes the cover. Storm tries to break things up, but Moore dodges and he lands on Roode instead. Moore sends Storm out of the ring with a Spinning Heads Scissors, then clears Roode out with a clothesline. Tommy Driver is making his way through the crowd, followed by Stevie Richards and Raven(!). In the ring Moore connects with some punches on Roode, but when he tries to slide between his legs Storm yanks him out of the ring and drives him into the steel steps. Storm tags in and they stomp the hell out of Moore. Neal stumbles out towards the ring. Moore is trying to fight back in the ring, but runs into a high knee from Storm. Roode tags back in. He connects with a Body Slam. Storm nails an elbow drop on his way out, and Roode hits a knee drop for two. Shelley on commentary claims that Beer Money's name comes from a 2001 made for TV movie [the movie does apparently exist, but is so obscure it seems to lack even its own wikipedia page]. Moore tries to rally again, but this time is stopped by a nice Full Nelson Slam. Storm tags in. They hit a double elbow drop, but when they try to follow up with the DWI Moore kicks down Storm and Bulldogs Roode. Neal tags in, and is seemingly feeling much better. He clotheslines the hell out of everyone, then takes down Storm with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Roode comes in to break up the ensuing cover, which draws in Moore as well. Moore takes Roode out of the ring, then follows him out with a Somersault Plancha. In the ring, Storm nails a Code Breaker out of nowhere, but when he tries to follow up with a Superkick Neal blocks it and hoists him up for the Mooregasm. Moore goes to the top rope, but Roode shoves him off. Neal drives Storm into the ropes, where he and Roode crack heads. A School Boy gets 1-2...no! Storm takes a swig of beer as Roode distracts Neal from outside, then spits it in Neal's face. Roode rolls in to assist with the DWI for the kill.
WINNERS: Beer Money Inc. in six minutes. This was a super time compressed version of what would have been a really awesome match, but was still pretty damned good.

(5)MR. ANDERSON vs. ABYSS
Falls Count Anywhere No DQ Match
Anderson runs down to the ring without his usual ado. He lays in with rights, then stomps Abyss down in the corner. Abyss takes him down with a back elbow, then shoves his throat into the middle rope. Abyss lowers his head too soon for a Back Body Drop, and Anderson kicks it, then connects with a Lou Thesz Press. Abyss rolls out of the ring. Anderson borrows a chair from a fan (or plant) at ringside, but Abyss punches it back into his face. He rolls Anderson into the ring and follows him with the chair, which he sets up. He punches him a couple of times, but then gets Drop Toe Held into the chair for two. Taz notes the fine tribute to Raven in the audience. Anderson winds up and nails Abyss in the back with the chair, but he only gets two. He lodges the chair between the top and middle ropes in the corner, but Abyss reverses the attempted whip into it—Anderson slides under the chair and crawls under the ring. Abyss goes looking for him, but doesn't see Anderson slide back out with a kendo stick. Anderson works over Abyss with the stick, but then misses a shot and connects only with the ring post. Abyss floors him with a right, then shoves him into the guard rail. Abyss chokes him a bit. Anderson fights back from his knees, but Abyss whips him into the side of the ramp. Abyss pulls up the mat to expose the concrete. He signals for a Choke Slam, but Anderson elbows him out. Abyss just clubs him in the back instead, then rolls him into the ring. He picks up the chair and drives it into Anderson's stomach twice. He then places the chair on Anderson. He goes to drop on it but Anderson turns it sideways and it catches him in the groin. A roll up gets what looked to me like three, but was apparently only two. Anderson goes to the top rope. He does the Hardy hand gesture and goes for a Swanton Bomb, but Abyss gets his knees up. Abyss shoves Anderson into the chair that's still between the ropes (then where did the other chair come from?), then hits the Shock Treatment for the win.
WINNER: Abyss in 8 minutes. Hey, a main event! I remember reading about those.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2010, 10:42 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-25-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42187.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - THE BIG SHOW vs. JACK SWAGGER

When Show was making his entrance, the announcers plugged Punk vs. Kane in a no-DQ match tonight. Swagger got the mic during his entrance and said he has filed a protest against WWE. Not only for having to fight Big Show tonight, but also for having to defend his title in a 'lawless' match like a Fatal Four-Way. In other words, he was cheated out of the World Title. He invoked his rematch clause for the MITB PPV. He said until then, he's going to make everyone suffer, just like his dad suffered on Father's Day. And first up is the Big Show.

This was just Smackdown's main event on a PPV like a month ago, and now it's the opening match on an episode of Smackdown, with no hype at all? Boy do those people who paid to see this match feel like fools! Show dominated as the bell rang and Swagger ended up falling to ringside. He brought Swagger to the apron, but Swagger hot-shotted him. Swagger was crotched on the top rope via Show. Superplex by Show. They went to break about a minute into the match.

Show continued his onslaught in the ring, working the left arm, then stepping on and over his upper torso. Swagger fought back with some weak right hands and Show responded with a body shot. Matt Striker speculated that Swagger may have a ruptured triceps. Swagger applied a front chancery, but Show just tossed him off with ease. Big splash in the corner by the big man. Swagger went after Show's knee, and he fell to the mat in pain. The former champion smelled blood and tried to twist around Show's knee. Middle-rope shoulderblock from Swagger, only getting a two-count. High legdrop followed. Running Vader Bomb found the mark. But on a second try, Show reached out and grabbed Swagger by the throat. Swagger countered with a roll up and turned it into an ankle-lock. Show finally reached the bottom rope, but Swagger wouldn't break and ended up getting disqualified.

WINNER: Show, via DQ, at 10:35. Not really fun to watch. A typical Big Show match.

Show was assisted by two referees in the ring. He got to his feet, but collapsed in pain. The crowd cheered when he finally got to his feet, using the ropes as leverage, but again, he collapsed to the ground. Swagger looked happy with what was happening.

2 - VANCE ARCHER & CURT HAWKINS & DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. MVP & CHRISTIAN & KOFI KINGSTON

Ah, a good old-fashioned six-man tag. MVP went for an early cover on Hawkins for only a near-fall. Todd Grisham brought up Hawkins' past as tag-team champion with Zack Ryder. High dropkick by Christian for two. Hawkins made the tag to Ziggler and they tried to double-team MVP, but were unsuccessful. MVP knocked them all to ringside. Each of the babyfaces also hit a move on the heels on the outside. The good guys stood tall as they went to break.

Faces still on the advantage after break. Kingston hit the world's ugliest sunset flip into a roll-up for two on Ziggler. His high energy offense led Ziggler to stay on the defensive until he finally got a knee to the stomach. However, Kingston replied with a dropkick and a side Russian leg-sweep. Hawkins tried to interfere, giving Ziggler the momentum. Rolling neck snap by Ziggler, as Striker wondered aloud what Michael McGillicutty thinks of Ziggler's offense. Hah. Archer came in and felled Kingston with a back elbow for two. Hawkins then came in and landed a neck-breaker. Big elbowdrop from Ziggler as the heels seem to be trying to wear Kingston down with pin attempts. Ziggler got cocky and taunted the crowd, but Kingston sprung up and took him down with a hurricanrana. He dodged a Ziggler charged and tagged Christian. Face-plant by Christian on Ziggler, then he stood on Ziggler's back with his throat draped across the middle rope. Christian knocked Archer off the apron after a two-count. Springboard sunset flip, but Ziggler landed a fame-asser for two. Christian went to the top, but Ziggler went up to greet him. He ended up greeting the canvas and Christian landed a missile dropkick, with a pin broken up by both heels. The match broke down, as usual, and Ziggler couldn't hit the Zig-Zag. Instead, the Killswitch was engaged, and the faces got the win.

WINNERS: Christian, MVP and Kingston, at 11:54. I thought they'd use this as a showcase for Archer and Hawkins, but they were kept in the background. Good mid-card tag match.

3 - DREW MCINTYRE vs. MATT HARDY

Hardy and McIntyre yelled at each other before the match. Hardy fought with a black undershirt on. McIntyre was kicked into the announce table by Hardy, then his head was smashed into the apron. He speared Mac right out of the ring, and Hardy fell out with him. He rolled McIntyre back into the ring, but McIntyre shoved Hardy back-first into the ring post while Hardy was on the apron. He followed it up with a belly-to-back suplex on the floor. Back in the ring, McIntyre demanded the ref count Hardy out. Matt got to his feet at nine and was able to make it back in before the ten count. Mac aggressively went after Hardy with kicks and punches. Hardy perched himself on the second rope, but McIntyre hit what Striker called a Michinoku Driver (but obviously, not a pure one given restraints on the moves impacting the neck) off the top, only getting a two-count. McIntyre looked frustrated at not being able to put Hardy away. He continued to pick apart Hardy. Another suplex off the second rope for only two. Hardy grabbed the rope to break up the pin. In a change-of-pace, they went to break about 7:00 in here.

McIntyre was still on offense back from break, still unable to get that three-count. Side Effect by Hardy. He couldn't follow up, though. More kicking out from Hardy, thought the crowd wasn't really into some of these near-falls. McIntyre set up for the Future Shock, but Hardy back-dropped him to ringside. He tried to set something up outside, and McIntyre backed him into the steel steps at ringside. McIntyre stood on the steps ready to stomp Hardy's skull and got his legs swept out from underneath him, falling back-first into the steps. Both seemed out of gas here. Out of nowhere, Hardy landed the Twist of Fate for the win.

WINNER: Hardy, at 15:50. Match kinda dragged during some of the points they were trying to raise the drama with.

As McIntyre was recovering in the ring, Teddy Long came on the Titan-Tron. He said he's sorry that McIntyre lost, but while he was doing some research, he found that McIntyre's Visa expired, so he's in this country illegally. He advised security to send him back to Scotland. I don't think security as the authority to do that. McIntyre ranted to Striker at ringside, then was escorted out.

4 - ROSA MENDES vs. KELLY KELLY

Rosa had a jump-rope in the ring, working out to presumably get into LayCool. LayCool came to the ring and did guest commentary. Tiffany was at ringside with Kelly. Anyway, Mendes put the jump rope away and Kelly gave her the K2 legdrop to end things quickly.

WINNER: Kelly, at :14.

5 - C.M. PUNK vs. KANE - NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

The fight began immediately on the outside, with Kane tossing Punk around like a rag doll. The barricade got an assist in most of Kane's offense. Luke Gallows ran down about 1:30 in and tried to help his fearless leader, but he didn't do too well for himself. The crazy masked member came out, with no shirt, and he tried to help out. His fate was much like Gallows. However, the distraction gave Gallows and Punk enough time to recover, and soon, all three were on the attack. Kane was whipped into the barricade, and the Society whipped each other into Kane. Only problem was, Punk got back-dropped into the announcers' area. Punk pounded Punk's left arm into the steps, then stretched it around the ringpost. Then, the Straight Edge Savior was sent into the steel steps. Kane began undressing the announce table. He chokeslammed the masked man right onto the floor. Gallows broke up a chokeslam attempt, but he himself was chokeslammed through the table. Kane began stalking Punk, who had escaped through the crowd. They went into the concourse of the arena and Punk tried to flee the building. Kane had other ideas. He threw Punk around some more, putting him through a merchandise table and the fight eventually went to the outside. Punk crawled away as Kane stood in the doorway. He began to run across the street.

WINNER: No Contest, (no bell), at about 7:47.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 30 2010, 01:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42229.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. KOZLOV

Santino teased a German Suplex early on from a rear waist lock, but Kozlov shrugged him off. Santino tried a submission hold, but Kozlov threw him off. Kozlov smiled at the attempt before landing multiple head butts into a belly-to-belly throw for a two count. Kozlov then slapped on a rear bear hug, but Santino countered into a throw. Kozlov, upset by this, grabbed Santino and threw him to the mat for the decisive pin and the win.

Kozlov laughed at the sight of the sad Santino figure before playfully rolling him around the mat. Kozlov left the ring and William Regal greeted him on the way out with a handshake. Regal then hit the ring to deliver a beat down on Santino. Kozlov spotted this injustice and ran to the ring to clear away Regal to make the save. Kozlov then picked up Santino and dragged him out of the ring with a big smile on his face.

WINNER: Kozlov at 1:24. And the storyline continues. (n/a)

2 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY -- non-title match

Sheamus landed clubbing offense early on before Henry blocked a clothesline attempt. Henry then hit a big splash, but Sheamus put his foot on the bottom rope for a break. Sheamus tried to retreat on the outside, but Henry followed and press-slammed him back into the ring. Henry was too slow following up, allowing Sheamus to hit a bicycle kick to the face for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:31. A little too Even-Steven when the champ needed to look strong here. This is where enhancement talent are missing from pro wrestling in 2010. (n/a)

3 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX & MARYSE vs. EVE & GAIL KIM

From the "haven't we seen this before?" department, the tag match started with Alicia on the offensive working over Eve. Maryse then reluctantly took a tag and gave Alicia a hand motion before going to work on Eve. Alicia re-entered, but lost control and Eve tagged in Gail. Gail landed a series of clotheslines before hitting a huracanrana on Alicia for a two count. Alicia then rolled to the outside and brawled with Eve. Maryse re-entered behind the ref's back to cause a distraction, which allowed Alicia to sneak attack Gail and hit an axe kick for the pin and the win. Afterwards, Alicia held up her Divas Title belt in Maryse's face as Maryse tried to blow her off.

WINNER: Alicia & Maryse at 3:14. Basic tag match to build tension between Alicia and Maryse over the Divas Title. Fine developments. (*)

4 -- CHRIS JERICHO & EDGE & U.S. champion THE MIZ & TED DIBIASE vs. RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH & EVAN BOURNE -- eight-man tag match

The bell sounded back from break and the match was off with DiBiase and Morrison paired off against each other. Truth tagged in, landed a slap, and dumped DiBiase clean over the top rope to the floor. Bourne followed with a running kick strike off the ring apron that took DiBiase to the floor again. Back in the ring, Bourne went to work on DiBiase with more kick strikes. Miz made his way into the ring and battled with Bourne, who landed a double-foot smash to the jaw followed by a corner strike for a two count. Cole put over Bourne's potential creativity in the MTIB match at the PPV. Meanwhile, the crowd chanted for Orton, who remained on the ring apron.

The heels cut off Bourne and Jericho tagged in. Jericho cockily walked around the ring to draw heat before going to work on Bourne. Jericho then mocked Orton's ballerina pose with a smug look on his face before throwing Bourne back into the ring. Jericho paintbrushed Bourne, who teased a hot tag to Orton until Jericho pulled him back to the heel corner to tag in Miz. Cole noted Miz and Jericho were a tag team for "a cup of coffee." Mathews covered for Cole's commentary on the short-term booking by saying their egos were too large to co-exist.

Morrison eventually tagged in and battled his former tag partner, Miz. Morrison connected with a springboard Flying Chuck, then teased the Starship Pain, but DiBiase dragged Miz to the outside. Morrison changed course and took out DiBiase and Miz on the floor. Morrison tried to follow, but Edge attacked Morrison on the outside to cut off his momentum. The heels regained control and they cut to break.

Back from break, the camera was tight on Jericho taking apart Morrison in the heel corner. They shot a clipped from during the break of Jericho driving a ladder into Morrison's mid-section while the ref was occupied. Back live, Jericho continued to work on Morrison and taunt the babyfaces before tagging out to Edge. DiBiase then entered and slowly worked on Morrison as the crowd chanted for Orton. Edge re-entered and teased the Spear, but Morrison moved and Edge missed in the corner. Morrison then teased a hot tag and dropped Edge with an enziguiri as Edge tried to cut him off. Both men were out cold on the mat as the crowd anticipated a hot tag for the babyfaces.

Right at the top of the hour, Jericho made a tag for the heels and Bourne made a tag for the babyfaces. Bourne landed signature high-flying offense on Jericho before going up top. Jericho cut him off and teased a superplex, but Bourne knocked him to the mat. Bourne then airballed Air Bourne and Jericho immediately followed with the Codebreaker. Brilliant exchange. Jericho couldn't make a cover, so he went to his corner to tag in DiBiase. Meanwhile, Bourne made the St. Louis connection to Orton and the crowd exploded for Orton's first entry in the match. Orton immediately dropped DiBiase with the RKO and made a cover for the win. That was quick.

Post-match: Edge jumped Orton from behind to clear him out of the ring. Edge then tried to use a ladder, but Truth and Morrison dropkicked the ladder into Edge's face. Suddenly, heels and faces exchanged finishing moves on each other. Miz was left alone in the ring staring up at the briefcase hanging above the ring. Miz then set up a ladder and climbed the ladder. Orton had other ideas and re-entered the ring to knock Miz off the ladder.

The crowd chanted, "Randy, Randy" as he set up the ladder and climbed toward the briefcase. Cole posed the question of whether this will be the picture at the MITB PPV. They showed Orton retrieve the briefcase and hold up the MITB briefcase. Cue up Orton's theme music. After a few moments on Orton's "victory," Cole and Mathews made final notes on the show, then Raw closed with a shot of Orton standing on the ladder holding the briefcase.

WINNERS: Team Orton at 15:10. The match was a good forum to hit key points on the stars involved in the MITB ladder match at the PPV. The final segment could have used a non-physical appearance by the Nexus group to show they're still lurking in the background, but WWE wanted to focus solely on the MITB PPV to close the show. It was a bit of an anti-climatic ending after three weeks of Nexus-related angles to close Raw. Overall, it was fine to create some visuals to help sell the PPV. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 01 2010, 10:30 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42259.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and poll positions.

1 -- MVP (w/Percy Watson) vs. HUSKY HARRIS (w/Cody Rhodes)

They had a nice start to this match with MVP and Harris slowly dancing around the ring teasing a lock-up and staying on their feet for the first two or three minutes. Harris collided mid-ring with MVP and screamed at him to bring it. MVP smirked, then caught Harris with a small package for a one count. They cut to a random shot of the Pros on stage as Cole said Mark Henry is "on assignment" and has already voted in the Pros vote. Why not put over the WWE champ by saying Sheamus knocked out Henry on last night's Raw? Anyways, MVP knocked Harris to the floor with a Chono Boot. A fan in the very quiet arena audibly shouted, "Get up, Butterball!" as Harris recovered on the floor. They cut to break.

Back from break, MVP was working over Harris in the ring. They cut back to the Pros on stage watching the action. Meanwhile, the ref checked on MVP, who was selling an injury after Harris regained control. Henry then went to a rear naked choke and failed on a nip up attempt. He followed with a round of right hand fists to the mid-section as Mathews mocked the nip up. Cole proceeded to cut a promo on Mathews not being an athlete and only taking a nip of something from a bottle. This show has come off the rails.

Harris continued to slow things down and delivered a scoop slam. He decided to pick up MVP again and deliver another scoop slam. Harris doesn't seem to be all there, but maybe it's just the gimmick. Harris then teased a whip to the corner, but awkwardly turned it into a short-arm clothesline. Harris tried to follow with a sentaun, but MVP moved and Harris ate the mat.

MVP tried to make a comeback and rally the crowd, but Harris failed to feed for MVP's comeback. Harris eventually flopped down near the ropes. MVP then warmed up the Ballin' Elbow drop to little fanfare as Cole made a LeBron James to Miami Heat reference. MVP connected, then made the pin for the win.

WINNER: MVP in 13:00. That was brutal and a lifeless crowd didn't help. The first few minutes were really strong with the slow build-up and feeling-out process, but Harris on an extended offensive attack was not exactly a smart decision. At least they found out what Harris needs to work on, but isn't that what FCW is for? They don't need not-ready-for-prime-time wrestlers on national TV. (1/2*)

2 -- ELI COTTONWOOD & ALEX RILEY & TITUS O'NEIL vs. JOE HENNIG & KAVAL & LUCKY CANNON

They randomly cut to the ring for a random six-man tag match. Hennig and Eli started things off against each other. Lucky and Titus then entered the ring and had an FCW-quality exchange. Alex Riley provided a distraction on Lucky, allowing Titus to take control for their team. Riley entered and worked over Cannon as they cut to a shot of "coach" Miz smiling and watching approvingly as his Rookie dominated the match. Team Riley continued to work over Cannon as Cole said it's a good thing Cannon won immunity since he's looking terrible here. The crowd was absolutely lifeless for this. They cut to a shot of Miz watching intently as Cannon teased a hot tag.

Cannon eventually made it to Kaval to wake up the crowd. Kaval cleaned house and delivered kick strikes on Riley for a two count. Kaval landed a nice handspring kick strike in the corner for a two count as Eli and Titus broke up a pin attempt. The two big men proceeded to chuck Kaval out of the ring. Hennig then snuck in the back door and dropped Riley with a neckbreaker. The action broke down as Kaval re-entered the scene. He went up top and landed a big double foot stomp on Riley for the pin and the win. And cue up a celebration by Lay-Cool on the stage. After they aired highlights of the match, Kaval, Hennig, and Cannon were shown celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Team Kaval in 5:00. Kaval continues to stand out for his in-ring work and demonstrate why he will be a star if WWE gives him an opportunity similar to Evan Bourne. Meanwhile, Riley continues to stand out for his heel work. The match was barely passable with Lucky Cannon isolated for most of the match. (*)

Matt Striker was with the eight NXT Rookies to recap the events tonight with one of them going home. Striker recapped Lucky Cannon having immunity tonight. And #1 is...Kaval. Cole said that doesn't surprise him with the Internet voting. #2 is Percy Watson. #3 is Michael McGillicutty. #4 is Alex Riley, who sold not being happy with that vote. #5 is Lucky Cannon, which drew a mild reaction. #6 is Eli Cottonwood. So, it comes down to Titus O'Neil and Husky Harris.

Striker asked Harris and O'Neil to step forward and face the vote. Striker said the eliminated Rookie has his work cut out for him. Cue up the drumroll and #7 is...Husky Harris. #8 is Titus O'Neil and he's going home. He just didn't stand out during the show. Titus was given the mic and he cut a motivational speech to the audience. Titus said life is a game and you must make it what you can. The crowd applauded as Titus signed off, "Make it a win." Titus left the ringside area shaking hands with the fans on the front row as Striker talked about the competition intensifying from here. Riley had a great expression no-selling the vote with a #4 ranking. They cut to a final shot of Titus hugging his NXT Pro, Zack Ryder, and posing on the stage to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 04 2010, 01:35 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_42292.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER & PRIMO COLON vs. GOLDUST & YOSHI TATSU

Early on, Cole and Lawler had a conversation on the mysterious Raw GM situation. Cole said there will be a "big announcement" on Monday from the Raw GM regarding Nexus. Cole said no one is safe with Nexus around and he doesn't know what they want since they already have WWE contracts. Cole said he finds the anonymous Raw GM interesting communicating with him. Cole said he has no idea who it is, he can't talk to the person over the phone, and he can't reply to the emails. So, it's an automated mailing list. Cole said no one knows who the person is and you can't contact the person. Surprisingly, it took Lawler exactly four minutes to mention Ryder's new attire. Cole robotically said Rob Zombie was great as the guest host on Raw as if he were on Raw for more than two minutes. As for the match, the heels took control and they cut to break.

Back from break, Ryder was working over Goldust as Yoshi was shown begging for a tag. Ryder cut off Goldust's comeback, but Primo lost control of the match and Goldust made it to Yoshi for the hot tag. Yoshi landed high-flying moves on Ryder, who also tagged in. Cole randomly said wrestlers in the back believe Yoshi is a future champion in WWE. Yoshi continued the attack on Ryder with knife-edge chops before nailing a running knee strike to the jaw. Primo broke up a pin attempt and the action broke down. Yoshi then missed with a corner attack and Ryder measured Yoshi for the leaping Rough Ryder. Ryder made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Ryder & Primo in 12:00. Good win for Ryder, who looks more serious as a heel with the regular trunks, a heel beard, and less of the "mid-card act" mannerisms. Ryder has progressed throughout 2010 after the program with Christian on ECW. He's on his way to a higher place on the card on Raw. (*1/2)

2 -- JILLIAN HALL vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella)

The Bella Twins came out first for a Divas match from the Raw brand. They replayed the Switcheroo last week when Brie Bella picked up a win over Jillian Hall. The Bellas were pleased with their work after watching a replay. Jillian then came out determined not to be conned again. Jillian had the giant headset on to cut a promo expressing outrage over being conned last week. Jillian was aggressive early on to tell the story of being determined to get a win before the Bellas could pull the Switcheroo again.

Nikki came back with a crisp head scissors for a two count, but Jillian cut her off and knocked Nikki to the outside. Jillian stomped away on both Bellas ringside and the ref began a ten count. Nikki slowly made it back on the ring apron and Jillian knocked her to the floor, then Brie snuck in behind Jillian to score a three count on a roll-up for the win. Naturally, Jillian sold shock over being conned again. After a replay of the finish, The Bellas were shown regrouping to celebrate the win over Jillian.

WINNERS: Bellas in 4:00. And the Switcheroo gimmick continues. It's pretty simple stuff they could extend another week by giving Jillian a heel partner to set up a tag match. (n/a)

3 -- CHRISTIAN vs. CURT HAWKINS (w/Vance Archer)

The bikeridin' dudes Hawkins and Ryder came to the ring for Hawkins to compete in the main event. Archer is going for the Chris Sabin look. The match began with Hawkins talking trash after an early knock-down, then Christian came back with a Thesz Press and punches from the mount position. "Remember the time I mounted you and wailed on your face?" Grisham randomly asked. Striker remained silent for about ten seconds after that line. Christian and Hawkins took the action to the floor as Striker talked about Nexus infiltrating the entire WWE. Well, except for Smackdown. Apparently they don't work Fridays. Back to the action, Archer tried to get involved, but the ref caught him and gave him the boot. Apparently Vickie Guerrero wasn't around to make it a handicap match against Christian. Cut to break with Christian vs. Hawkins one-on-one.

Back from break, Hawkins was working over Christian with a neck vice. Hawkins took his time in-between holds trying to wear down Christian. Christian made a comeback and scored a two count following a reverse DDT. Grisham plugged Christian hosting Matt Hardy on the Peep Show tomorrow night on Smackdown as Hawkins scored a nearfall with a swinging bodyslam. Striker and Grisham talked more about Nexus creating an uneasy feeling throughout WWE as Hawkins went back to work on Christian.

Hawkins walked into a pendulum kick out of the corner. Christian followed with a flying European uppercut from the second rope. He then tried the Unprettier, paused, and dropped Hawkins face-first on the mat. Christian with the cover and the win. After a replay of the finish, they closed the show with a plug for Smackdown and a final shot of a smiley Christian celebrating the win.

WINNER: Christian in 11:00. Solid match and a good win for Christian as the announcers sold the MITB ladder match at the PPV being an opportunity for Christian to grab a World Title opportunity. Hawkins just needs to keep working hard and find a way to stand out more in the ring. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 04 2010, 01:36 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 7-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42295.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. INK INC. (Shannon Moore & Jesse Neal)

At 2:00, after some fast-paced action and dives at ringside, Devon joined Tenay and Taz at ringside. He said he was there to be sure Brother Ray didn't come out and interfere. He said he is his brother, but he's made a fool of him lately by promising not to mess with Jesse, but he continues to do so. He said Jesse hasn't taken short cuts and has worked hard and deserves a chance. Devon called him Bubba Dudley. Is he Brother Ray or Bubba Dudley? (I know, he's Brother Bubba Ray Dudley.) Tenay stuck with "Brother Ray." At 4:00 Neal speared Sabin and Shelley broke up the pin attempt. Neal set up Shelley for a superplex. Ray made his way toward the ring. Devon charged after him. They argued. That distraction led to Sabin hitting Neal from behind and they finished him with a double-team move off the top rope for the win.

WINNERS: Motor City Machine Guns in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4

2 -- A.J. STYLES (w/Kaz, Ric Flair) vs. SAMOA JOE -- Top Contenders Match (#4 vs. #6)

Tenay and Taz paid proper tribute to the history of these two wrestlers in TNA's history. Taz said before he was part of TNA, he was a fan and watched the show. Joe knocked Styles to the floor with a slap to the face. Kaz at ringside got in Styles's face about a weak start. Taz said Styles didn't look like he wanted a motivational speech from Kaz. It's good to hear Tenay and Taz talking about this match having impact on the Top Ten Rankings. Styles took control at 3:00 with a thumb to the eye and a dropkick. At 5:00 Styles settled into a chinlock. Taz wondered if Flair will choose Styles to be the first member of The Fortune. Joe made a comeback with some chops in the corner. He set up a Muscle Buster, but Styles flipped out of it. Joe roundkicked Styles's leg, then applied the rear naked choke for the tapout win.

WINNER: Joe in 7:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- Good to see the policy of no commercial breaks during matches continue. It still seems like short-changing everyone to give these two only seven minutes, but it was a good start.

3 -- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. DESMOND WOLFE (w/Chelsea)

Douglas Williams joined Tenay and Taz at ringside. "I'm going to have Kendrick tapping so fast, they're going to rename him Fred Astaire." Wolfe got in Chelsea's face and seemed agitated by her. Williams said: "Just because Brian Kendrick has been watching the Ultimate Fighter and learned one submission hold, he thinks he's some sort of expert." Tenay told Williams he'll be facing Jeremy Buck next week on Impact in a submissions match. Chelsea walked out on Wolfe at 5:00. Kendrick surprised him from behind with a cobra clutch and an eventual tapout win.

WINNER: Kendrick via submission in 5:00.

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. JAY LETHAL

Morgan dominated for the first four minutes. Lethal attempted a comeback, but Morgan caught him as he came off the ropes and grabbed him by his throat and shoved him out of the ring. As the ref checked on Lethal, Hernandez entered the ring and gave Morgan a low blow. Lethal re-entered the ring and hit a dropkick for the pin.

WINNER: Lethal in 5:00.

STAR RATING: * -- Morgan got to dominate and lose only due to interference. Lethal got a win that didn't mean a ton given the circumstances, but he seemed to be doing well on his comeback before the interference. It's an even-steven five minutes of TV time filled.

5 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. TAYLOR WILDE

Rayne looked like she had been trapped in a basement for the past week without a shower or proper food or water. Wilde showed a sign of life a minute in after Rayne dominated early. She looked disheveled and even somewhat haggard. Tenay wondered where Velvet Sky and Lacey Von Erich were. At 2:00 Dreamer led through the crowd a growing cast of former late-'90s stars of a defunct, destroyed, distant-past style called "extreme" - now including Rhino, Raven, and Stevie Richards. Can this talented, but aged and burned out cast create interest with the majority of TNA viewers who either don't know who they are or have seen more than enough of them and see them as yesterday's news, to say the least? Can they deliver today, in other words, rather than try to draw on the empty bank account of the past glory of the ECW brand? Tenay pressed Taz for detailed given how far they go back. Taz said he texted him and all he said is, "Time will tell." Rayne won clean.

WINNER: Rayne in 3:00.

6 -- JEFF HARDY vs. ABYSS

Rob Vam Dam came out first as special referee. Abyss brought the board with nails into the ring with him, but Hardy took control early and knocked the board out of play. Hardy knocked Abyss to the floor and then slingshot himself onto Abyss on the floor. Abyss took control at ringside, then threw Hardy back into the ring. The crowd chanted, "Let's go Hardy!" Taz wondered who this "they" or "them" are. Tenay said it's some party he's apparently in communication with. Taz wondered if the former members of the original ECW are part of "them." Tenay said he was going to ask Taz that. RVD took a chair away from Abyss. RVD rolled up an arguing Abyss for a two count at 3:00. Hardy avoided a Shock Treatment a minute later and hit a Twist of Fate. He then climbed to the top rope and set up a Swanton. Abyss got up and knocked him off balance. Abyss set up a chokeslam, but Hardy fended him off and knocked him down, then landed the Swanton for the pin.

WINNER: Hardy in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Another relatively short match between two top tier players, but good while it lasted.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 04 2010, 01:37 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-2-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42313.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Kofi came to the ring first. Vickie Guerrero grabbed Dolph by his arm on his way to the entrance tunnel. She told him if he wins, he gets an IC Title shot. Dolph was distracted by Rosa Mendez doing jumping backs in the background. Vickie reacted jealously. A minute into the match, they cut to a break. Upon returning, Dolph had Kingston down with a chinlock. They showed that during the break Dolph reversed Kofi into the ring apron to take control. Kofi came back with a top rope crossbody block for a two count at 6:00. Dolph countered a Trouble in Paradise with a legdrop driver for a believable near fall. Dolph showed frustration. Striker said he should just stay focused. As Dolph talked to Vickie at ringside, Kofi finished him with a Trouble in Paradise kick for the win. Vickie walked away as if to say he blew it with her.

WINNER: Kingston in 7:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4

2 -- KANE vs. LUKE GALLOWS

At 1:00 Kane caught a charging Gallows with a hand to the throat. The mystery man in the mask interfered for the DQ. Kane chokeslammed him, then he dragged Punk into the ring.

WINNER: Kane via DQ in 1:00.

3 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MVP

After MVP's ring intro, Chavo walked to the ring and said he hopes she's watching because he sees how this works now. He said her little gringo boyfriend didn't get it done, but he can and will. He said he deserves an IC Title shot if he beats MVP. Chavo took control a minute in and went for a top rope dive, but MVP moved and took over. As MVP went into his finishing routine, Grisham said MVP trains with Dwayne Wade in the off-season. WWE has an off-season? MVP won clean with the Play of the Day.

WINNER: MVP in 2:00.

4 -- KELLY KELLY vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL (w/Layla)

A clip aired before the match of Kelly Kelly pinning Layla last week. Does Kelly ever stop smiling? Before the match LayCool got in the face of Tiffany and attacked her. Layla then sprayed air freshener around ringside as McCool entered the ring. The bell rang to start the match, but McCool rolled out of the ring immediately. Grisham said they were really pushing the "Smelly Kelly" thing. McCool slid into the ring to beat the ten count. Kelly aggressively attacked her. Tiffany recovered and tackled Layla as she sprayed Kelly in the face. McCool leaned out of the ring to go after Tiffany, but that gave Kelly a chance to roll her up for the leverage pin.

WINNER: Kelly in 3:00.

5 -- THE BIG SHOW & REY MYSTERIO vs. CODY RHODES & JACK SWAGGER

Striker on Cody: "He thinks those Twilight kids look like Sir Oliver Humperdink." Grisham: "Well, what do you expect from a guy who brushes his eyebrows." A minute into the match, Grisham asked Striker if it was in his contract that he had to call Rhodes "Dashing" every time. Striker said, "Yes, and with a different inflection every time." Show pressed Rhodes and threw him onto Swagger on the floor.

Rey was on a roll at 6:00 against Rhodes, but when Rhodes snuck in a tag on Swagger, Swagger legally attacked Rey from behind. Late in the match, Rey countered Swagger with a DDT. He crawled over and hot-tagged Show. Swagger got up and charged Show, but Show took him down with a clothesline and then a corner splash. He signaled for the chokeslam, but still limped. He lifted Swagger, but Swagger went for a counter into a body scissors. Show dropped Swagger backward, but clutched his ankle afterward. He tagged in Rey and struggled to stand. Rey dove onto Swagger. Cody broke up the pin attempt. Rey went for a 619 against Swagger as Rhodes fought Show at ringside. Swagger put Rey in the anklelock in the ropes. He refused to break so when the ref counted to five, he DQ'd Swagger.

WINNER: Rey & Show in 11:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Basic good content in the match itself, with a strong finish that got across Swagger's rage at having lost the title and wanting to inflict damage on potential contenders.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 08 2010, 02:04 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42348.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) vs. JOHN MORRISON

DiBiase worked over Morrison early on. Maryse said she and DiBiase love each other and her love of money is just a coincidence. She said they have an economic stimulus plan to employ people to drive their limo, polish their jewelry, etc. Morrison made a comeback at 2:00 and hit a spinning heel kick for a two count. Maryse suddenly had a phone call as DiBiase hit a powerslam for a two count. Morrison then came back with an enziguiri kick as Maryse hung up and left the announce table. She grabbed Morrison's fur coat and teased Morrison with it while DiBiase used the distraction to hit a thumb to the eye. DiBiase followed with Dream Street for the pin and the win.

WINNER: DiBiase at 3:27. Basic match with more emphasis on Maryse than the in-ring competition. The match was presented as a filler and featured two wrestlers losing momentum right now. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL & GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) vs. SANTINO MARELLA & KOZLOV

Regal worked alone and never tagged Khali into the match. Kozlov won with the Iron Curtain for the quick pin and the win. Post-match: Khali stepped into the ring and made some noises as Kozlov stood his ground prepared to fight. Kozlov and Santino then lifted up Regal for Khali to give him a chop. Cue up Khali's theme music as Singh entered the ring and asked everyone to dance. Apparently he's not trying to encourage Khali to turn heel anymore? Who knows what's going on here.

WINNERS: Kozlov & Santino at 1:35. A complete booking mess compounded by Singh all over the TV. There just doesn't seem to be a point to any of this. (n/a)

3 -- RANDY ORTON & EVAN BOURNE vs. CHRIS JERICHO & EDGE

Back from break, the bell sounded to begin the match. The announcers continued to play dumb on the Steve Austin references by the anonymous GM. Meanwhile, Bourne started things off against Edge before Orton and Jericho tagged in. Orton rammed Jericho into the corner and teased the RKO, but Jericho scampered to his corner to tag in Edge. Cole then gave a plug for the big Smackdown Supershow in Atlanta tomorrow night with a plug for WrestleMania 27. Bourne tagged in and cleared Edge and Jericho to the outside with rapid-fire offense. Bourne then landed a dropkick through the ropes on Jericho to knock him into the guardrail. Bourne followed with a splash on the outside before rolling Jericho back into the ring. Back in the ring, Jericho put the brakes on to avoid a double knee smash. He followed by dropping Bourn face-first into the mat to regain control as they cut to break.

Back from break, Bourne was crying out in pain as Edge worked him over on the mat. Jericho then tagged in and worked over Bourne. Bourne broke free, then teased a tag to Orton, but Edge cut him off. He tried to follow with a suplex, but Bourne hit a knee to the head to escape and follow with a kick strike to the head. Bourne then crawled across the ring to Orton to make a hot tag. Jericho also tagged in after slightly hesitating. Orton attacked Jericho, then dropped him with the trademark spike DDT from the second rope. Orton then teased the RKO as the crowd screamed with Edge sneaking in behind Orton. Orton flung him away, but then walked into an enziguiri from Jericho. And the crowd goes quiet.

Edge and Jericho started working over Orton, with Edge focusing on Orton's injured shoulder. Orton started to fight out of the heel corner before Jericho landed a dropkick to the jaw for a close two count. Jericho tried a Lionsault, but Orton moved out of the way and Jericho ate the mat. Jericho crawled over to his corner and made a tag after Edge sold hesitation to tag in. Bourne also tagged in for Orton and landed high-flying, high-impact offense on Edge. Edge then cut off Bourne with a kick to the face. Edge went to the heel corner to tag in Jericho, who yelled at Edge to listen to him. Jericho then walked into a kick to the face from Bourne. Edge, not pleased with Jericho trying to give him instructions, got the big eyes and smashed Jericho with the spear in the corner. Edge took off to the back as Bourne then slowly gathered himself and climbed up top. Bourne came off the top with the Air Bourne to a big pop and followed with a cover on Jericho for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Bourne celebrated and got his shine with the victory. Orton then walked over to Bourne still maintaining the soulless expression on his face as he surveyed the scene. As Bourne continued to celebrate, Orton spun him around and suddenly dropped him with an RKO. The crowd gasped in the arena. Orton simply shot Bourne a classic Orton look as Lawler talked about not being able to trust a snake. Cole said it reinforces the idea that it's every man for himself at the MITB PPV.

WINNERS: Bourne & Orton at 15:40. Good, long-form match on Raw with plenty of combustible elements to sell the MITB match. The build-up feels much more organic this month than for the Fatal Four-Way PPV last month. They need to turn Bourne taking the RKO into sympathy, though, rather than leaving it as Bourne looking like bad for trusting Orton. (**1/4)

4 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX vs. EVE TORRES -- Divas Title match

Back from break, Alicia was in the ring proudly holding her Divas Title. They replayed the Four-Way PPV where Alicia captured the title, setting up Eve cashing in her re-match clause tonight. They cut back to Alicia cradling the title to sell how happy she was to hold the title. Eve then came out to face Alicia and the match was on. Eve was aggressive early on and sent Alicia reeling into a neutral corner. Alicia then started to sell a leg injury, which suckered in the ref and Eve. Alicia blindsided Eve, then dropped her with her Axe Kick finisher for the surprise pin and the win. Alicia then hobbled out of the ring still selling the "injury" after the heelish win.

WINNER: Alicia at 1:20 to retain the Divas Title. Basic title match thrown out on TV with no advanced hype, but solid reinforcement of Alicia as the lead heel in the division. Fine, overall. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 08 2010, 02:05 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-6-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42372.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- PERCY WATSON (w/MVP) vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY (w/IC champion Kofi Kingston)

Percy started with a headlock and MVP encouraged him to tighten it up. Hennig came back with a dropkick for a two count. Hennig then went to work on Watson and grounded him on the mat. MVP clapped up the audience and Percy made a comeback with multiple dropkicks. Hennig then hit a sunset flip into a pin and he trapped Percy's shoulders to the mat for the pin and the win. Hennig picks up yet another win, which drew applause from Kofi.

WINNER: Hennig in 3:00. Basic match that wasn't given enough time or focus to be anything more than filler. (*)

2 -- KAVAL (w/Lay-Cool) vs. THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley)

Kaval opened with a kick strike on Miz, who took out R-Truth last night on Raw. Cole gave a medical update that it's "highly unlikely" R-Truth will be in the MITB match at the PPV. That's softer than completely writing him off the match last night. Cole is now calling Miz the Pete Rose of WWE. Miz took control of the match and punished Kaval, who fought back from his knees with punches to the mid-section. Miz cut him off and landed left-hand strikes. Miz followed with his big running corner clothesline and made a cover for a two count. Lay-Cool hopped on the apron to encourage Kaval as Miz continued the attack before throwing Kaval through the ropes to the outside. Lay-Cool checked on Kaval as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz was still in control of the match, this time in the ring. Miz then airballed with a left hand strike and Kaval executed a great sunset flip into a snap double-foot stomp to the chest. That was great. Kaval followed with a flurry of double-fist smashes before landing a kick to the back of the head. Kaval then hit a handspring enziguiri kick for a two count. Lay-Cool pumped up the crowd as Kaval teased the Warrior's Way from the top, but Miz cut him off. Miz then attempted a superplex, but Kaval headbutted him to the mat, only to have Miz recover and flip him off the top. Miz followed up with the Skullcrushing Finale as Lay-Cool screamed for Kaval to kick out.

Post-match: Lay-Cool sold disappointment with Kaval's loss as Riley talked trash to Kaval, claiming he should be #1 in the NXT Poll. They replayed the highspots of the match, culminating with the SCF for Miz's victory. Cole said he's not sure a lot of people are ready for what Kaval can bring to WWE in the ring. Lay-Cool consoled Kaval after the match while Riley continued to gloat on Miz's behalf.

WINNER: Miz in 9:00. Good match. Mathews is right that perhaps the audience isn't ready for Kaval's moveset, as he has moves most of the audience probably has never seen before. He's just a star inside the ring, though. He's developing that all-important sympathy factor as an underdog babyface and has great comebacks with his arsenal of moves ala Rey Mysterio. Miz looked good continuing to develop his more-serious, darker heel persona working over Kaval during the match. (**)

3 -- CODY RHODES & HUSKY HARRIS vs. MARK HENRY & LUCKY CANNON

Henry and Lucky Cannon made their way to the ring three minutes past the top of the hour. Cole speculated why Nexus is coming to NXT next week. The bell sounded and Husky faced off with Lucky. Henry then tagged in, so Cody tagged in. Cody tried to attack Henry, but Henry shook him off and delivered a big gorilla press slam. Husky shouted at Cody to get up as Henry teased a big butt bomb. Cody moved, though, and Cody tagged in Husky. They double-teamed Henry before Husky went to work on him. Cody and Husky continued to tag in and out working over Henry before Harris did a two-point football stance into a big clothesline.

Suddenly, Henry came flying out of the corner with a big tackle on Husky. Henry then tagged in Lucky Cannon, who landed offense on Cody Rhodes, who also tagged in. Lucky scored a nearfall when Husky broke up the pin, leading to the action breaking down in the ring. The ref occupied himself with Henry as Cody set up Lucky for the Cross Rhodes. Cody then made the cover for the win. Henry just shook his head selling disappointment after his team took the loss. They closed with a recap of the highpoints in the match before showing Cody and Husky heading out with a victory.

WINNERS: Husky & Cody in 4:00. Fine main event tag match. Cody continues to stand out, while Husky had a much better this week compared to last week's disaster. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2010, 02:24 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 7-5-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10012809.shtml)

1. The Kings of Wrestling fought the Dark City Fight Club to an apparent no-contest in a non-title match in 6:50. The DCFC dominated the first couple minutes, but the Kings got the advantage with a dropkick after Hagadorn grabbed Davis' leg to prevent a double-team. At 5:00, Claudio accidentally hit Hero with a bicycle kick and Davis hit a clothesline for a nearfall.

Chavis hit a pretty sick spinebuster on Claudio for two and followed it up with a leg lariat. Hero hit his sliding Yakuza-type kick, then an elbow, then the Death Blow for two. Del Rey distracted the ref and Hagadorn threw him the "lucky" elbow pad. The Briscoes ran out and made the save and stood tall in the ring.

Joe's Judgment: Not a lot of big moves, but a fun, short, stiff match nonetheless. I feel like I've seen enough of the KOW-Briscoes feud, though.

2. Daizee Haze defeated Jamilia Craft in 3:30. Jamilia wrestles with a mask. They reversed headlocks for a couple minutes, and Daizee went to work on the Jamilia's arm with an armbar and a divorce court. Jamilia made a quick comeback with a leaping clothesline and a black hole slam, but Haze hit a bridging tiger suplex for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: Jamilia was a bit sloppy but the match was passable. Nothing really more to say.

3. The American Wolves defeated Christopher Daniels and Roderick Strong in 18:45. Edwards started for the Wolves against Daniels. Edwards took control with suplexes and Strong tagged in. Strong got a nearfall, but Edwards continued to control things. Daniels tagged back in, and Richards entered for the first time.

Richards and Daniels traded several nearfalls. Richards laid out Daniels with a kick and worked over his leg. Richards tagged in Edwards, who continued to work over Daniels until he made the hot tag to Strong, who went to town on Edwards with chops and leg lariats. Edwards tagged into Richards and they hit a pair of kicks.

Richards worked over Strong for bit, as Strong tried to make the hot tag. At 12:30, Richards gave Daniels a dragon screw in the ropes, and Edwards followed it up with a regular dragon screw and the Achilles Lock. Strong broke up the hold and hit Edwards with a backbreaker, then one to Richards.

Strong hit a kick to Richards' back and a gutbuster for two. Richard reversed a suplex and hit some kicks in the ropes, then his handspring enzuigiri. Richards tried the DR Driver, but Strong reversed and tagged Daniels. Daniels hit a Blue Thunder Bomb and signaled for the Angel's Wings. Richards went for the DR Driver again, but Daniels reversed it and Richards rolled through into an ankle lock.

Daniels got to the ropes and hit a kick, then went for the BME, but Edwards stopped him. Strong took out Edwards to the floor and Daniels tried the BME again, but Richards jumped up and hit a German suplex off the top for the pin.

Post match, Daniels and Strong argued as Hogewood questioned who Strong could trust.

Joe's Judgment: Weak finish to what had been a pretty good match. We've seen Richards use the top rope German as just another comeback move time and time again, so why did it end the match here, especially with all the leg work the Wolves did? I do still want to see Richards vs. Daniels, but this match never really got into the next gear and Strong and Edwards felt like afterthoughts. Not the way you want to treat a legit main eventer and the TV champ.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2010, 02:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-8-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article10012877.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Yoshi Tatsu and Gail Kim defeated Primo and Jillian at 5:54. Kim and Jillian started. Jillian tossed Kim around, but Kim came back and hit a shoulder tackle. Jillian tagged in Primo and Tatsu ran in to save Kim. Primo whipped Tatsu into the corner and Jillian clubbed him. Not to be out done, Kim hit a flying head scissor on Primo. The men put the crowd to sleep for three minutes and then Primo tagged Jillian. Tatsu tagged Kim for good measure and the women battled. Jillian argued with the Bella in the ring and punched her. The other Bella ran in and Jillian punched her. Kim rolled up a distracted Jillian and the first Bella made a fast count...The announce team hyped Kelly Kelly and Tiffany vs. LayCool for later...

Shore’s Slant: Well, that was rough. Mixed tag matches rarely work, and this was an example of why. You had four good workers in the ring, but the drama just isn't the same. Is anyone else shocked by the fact that the Bellas and Jillian are getting more storyline than any other Diva on Raw? Unbelievable.

2. Zack Ryder defeated Goldust at 7:47. Goldust started with an arm drag, and followed with his run the ropes into an arm drag and armbar gimmick. Ryder tried to whip out, but Goldust grabbed the rope, and hit an arm bar into butt bump that spilled Ryder to the floor... Back at 5:15, Goldust hit a slingshot into a back breaker combo and started for the top. Ryder jumped up and hit a hangman on Goldust and went on the attack.

Goldust came right back and worked move set. He stood Ryder in the corner for punches. He hit three and Ryder pushed him off. Ryder charged and Goldust hit a power slam. Ryder acted scared of Goldust and Goldust charged in. Ryder drove him into the corner and followed with the Rough Ryder for the win...A video recapped NXT...The announce team hyped the Masterlock Challenge for next...

Shore’s Slant: Honestly, there were almost four minutes of commercials in that match, so we got roughly 3:45 of action. Not a lot to work with. I felt like the match should just be getting started when it ended. What a terrible waste of time by WWE.

3. Layla and Michelle McCool defeated Kelly Kelly and Tiffany at 6:42. Tiffany and McCool started. Tiffany is still green and McCool tried to make it look good. Mostly she just screamed while Tiffany hit a monkey flip and tagged in Kelly. Kelly scored a two count on a Sunset Flip and immediately lost control. McCool tagged in Layla, and her and Kelly worked some acrobat moves before Kelly hit a clothesline and tagged in Tiffany.

Tiffany worked Layla who had rolled to the floor, but Layla drove Tiffany into the corner and took control. Layla and McCool worked in and out, almost allowing Tiffany to tag a few times, only to take out Kelly and cause her to distract the ref. Tiffany finally made the hot tag and clotheslined Layla. She took McCool out, and then hit a clothesline on Layla. McCool tried to grab Kelly's foot and distract her, but Kelly moved and hooked a roll up on Layla. McCool slid in the ring, and Tiffany was slow to come in, causing the ref to delay the count. Tiffany finally made it in to distract the ref, and McCool hit a big boot on Kelly. Layla covered for the win...

Shore’s Slant: I'm of two minds about this. I appreciate WWE giving the women almost seven minutes of actual TV time. But they picked two crappy workers (the faces) and the two most stale acts (the heels), so I'm not sure they did themselves any favors. Tiffany is God awful, and Kelly is only marginally better. She's more athletic, but she is very slow, especially when hitting the ropes or turnbuckle. Layla has the charisma to be a good heel, but McCool is killing her. Ugh, tough show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2010, 02:28 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42422.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. CHAVO GUERRERO vs. MVP – MONEY-IN-THE-BANK QUALIFYING MATCH

Ziggler was accompanied by a black-haired Vickie Guerrero. She joined the commentators at ringside. Chavo and Ziggler double-teamed MVP, but he was able to fight away and T-boned Ziggler over his head. Tandem suplex by the heels on MVP. Ziggler got a two-count as Chavo looked on and didn’t even try to break up the pin. MVP back-dropped Chavo out of the ring, and Ziggler soon followed. MVP signaled toward the gaudy-looking briefcase that hung over the ring and then posed as they went to break about 2:00 into the match.

It was Ziggler and MVP in the ring out of break, with Chavo nowhere to be seen. Oh, there he is, popping up at ringside and grabbing MVP’s boot when he tried to come off the ropes. More double-teaming by the heels. MVP again attempted to fight away, but Chavo took him down with a drop-toe hold. MVP pushed Chavo into the corner, where Ziggler was perched on the top rope. He then superplexed Dolph off and to the mat. Chavo got to his feet first and noticed both men down. Apparently, he was only in this to ensure a Ziggler win, since Vickie was not happy that he was going for a pin. He slowly went down and hooked the leg of MVP for only a two-count. Well, he shouldn’t have wasted so much time looking at Vickie for her reaction before doing it. Vickie went to ringside and screamed at Chavo. Ziggler attacked him from behind, throwing out the game plan the three had. Guerrero fired back and went for the Three Amigos. I don’t know if this is supposed to be his face turn, but the crowd was chanting for MVP. Speaking of, he awakened from the suplex and took out both men, sending Dolph to ringside. Overhead throw to Dolph briefly interrupted the “Ballin’!” elbowdrop. Play of the Day on Chavo and as the ref was counting, Vickie pulled him out of the ring. They argued, allowing Ziggler to lock in the sleeper and the ref called for the bell before he had it on for long.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 9:10. The right man went over here. Main point was to tell the story of Ziggler/Chavo/Vickie.

2 – CHRISTIAN & MATT HARDY vs. CURT HAWKINS & VANCE ARCHER

I noticed last night on Impact that Jeff Hardy must be on his brother’s diet now. Matt worked over Curt Hawkins, but Hawkins was able to back Matt into their corner, tagging Archer in the process. Double-team by the heels, where Archer whipped Hawkins into Hardy in the corner. Archer trash-talked Matt, but Hardy got a boot up on a corner charge. Tornado DDT by Hardy. Are the announcers not allowed to call it a tornado DDT anymore? Matt went for a tag, but Christian grabbed his arm and pulled him over the top rope and to the floor. He then walked out on the match, as Striker referred to it as “a little Papa Shango voodoo there from Christian.” Archer gave Hardy his finisher back in the ring, then Hawkins landed his top-rope elbowdrop for the win.

WINNERS: Archer and Hawkins, at 2:55. Good storyline advancement for the MITB PPV, and a decent win for Smackdown’s newest tag team as well.

3 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. KOFI KINGSTON – IF MCINTYRE WINS, HE QUALIFIES FOR MITB MATCH

Kingston went for a quick roll-up and got a two-count. Side headlock by Kingston, and he worked that for a bit, with the crowd behind him. Flying cross-body for two by Kofi. McIntyre took over, pulling Kofi’s hair and slamming the back of his head off the mat. He got a two-count off of that. Monkey-flip by Kingston on McIntyre – that got him a near-fall. After some back-and-forth, McIntyre again regained control. Neck-breaker over the near for a two-count. Lots of near-falls here in the early going, from both men. Flip-kick by Kofi in the corner, but as he went to the top, McIntyre kicked the top rope. After Kofi took a spill, McIntyre got a two-count. They went to break about 4:10 into the contest, with McIntyre seething over not getting the pin.

McIntyre had Kingston in an abdominal stretch out of break. Kofi fired back with chops, but his dropkick was brushed aside. Kofi went for the S.O.S, but McIntyre managed to back Kofi into the turnbuckle. From the second rope, Kofi frog-splashed the back of McIntyre, with Mac on his feet but leaning over. Kofi successfully hit the Boom Drop and set up for Trouble in Paradise. He missed, but hit it coming back the other way. McIntyre kicked out at two. He hit a sweet-looking wheelbarrow-like maneuver on Kingston for two. More back-and-forth, and McIntyre ended up being kicked to ringside. Kofi hit a suicide dive through the middle rope, connecting with McIntyre. Drew tried to get back into the ring, but Kofi pulled him back. Then he threw him into the ring. Why? Take the count-out win, Kofi! On the apron, McIntyre shoved Kofi head-first into the ring post. Then he pulled him into the ring and nailed him with the Future-Shock DDT for the victory.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 12:58. Really good match here. McIntyre winning was no surprise, but this loss didn’t really hurt Kofi, either.

4 – “DASHING” CODY RHODES vs. JTG

Rhodes had new theme music and even had a digital mirror on the Titan-Tron he could look into, and it showed his reflection on the other side. Neat. Jury is out on the theme music. Couple arm-drags by JTG, but Cody grabbed the ropes to break. Shoulder in the corner by JTG, but Rhodes shoved him off the second rope. Rhodes showed some aggression and bodyslammed the former Cryme Tyme member. Flying back elbow by JTG as he upped the tempo a bit. Grisham said he was hoping Christian would win the MITB and finally get a World Title shot. I bet that set off Vince’s Independent Thought Alarm. Rhodes turned the tables and hit the Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:41. Good, decisive win for Rhodes heading into MITB.

5 – JACK SWAGGER vs. THE BIG SHOW

Swagger went for the leg immediately, but Show wasn’t having it. He went again, but Show picked him up for a slam. Swagger worked out of the hold, but was caught by Show and dropped soon after anyway. Big right hand in the corner from Show, then a frying pan-like chop. Back to the middle of the ring, and another chop. He put his boot right in Swagger’s throat. Big splash in the corner, followed by a running shoulder tackle from Show. Swagger rolled to ringside. He picked Swagger up by the hair, but he choked Show on the top rope. Swagger pounced, grabbing Show’s leg and throwing it against the steel post. He applied the ankle-lock, but Show reversed and kicked Swagger off and to ringside. Swagger tried to come back in and was summarily thrown out again. Show went after him on the outside and the two fought in the aisle. It was back-and-forth, and both men were counted out by the referee. For some reason, there was no bell though.

WINNER: Double count-out, at about 4:10 (no bell).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 12 2010, 01:18 pm
TNA Victory Road PPV Results: 7-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_42443.shtml) To view condensed version with no pop-ups, go to TOKYOPOP: Arcademan Blogs (direct link to results). (http://www.tokyopop.com/Arcademan/blog/3070024.html)

1 -- DOUG WILLIAMS vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- Ultimate X / Submissions Match
WINNER: Williams in 10:00.
STAR RATING: **1/4 -- The finish came sooner than expected. They didn't do much with the ropes crossing above the ring and the whole Ultimate X gimmick. That's fine, though, because it's a dangerous gimmick and it makes sense Williams would try to win with submissions instead of facing his fear of heights. He didn't, though, seem particularly scared of heights during the match.

2 -- BROTHER RAY vs. JESSE NEAL vs. BROTHER DEVON
WINNER: Brother Ray in 5:00.
STAR RATING: * -- Easy night of work for Devon.
 
3 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. ANGELINA LOVE
WINNER: Love in 4:00 to capture the TNA Knockouts Title.
STAR RATING: * -- Tenay said Love made history as the first-ever four-time champion. Winning a title that way goes a long way to cheapening the whole value of being a champion multiple time.
 
4 -- KAZARIAN & A.J. STYLES vs. "THE FREAK" ROB TERRY & SAMOA JOE
WINNERS: Styles & Kaz in 8:00.
STAR RATING: *3/4
 
5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ
WINNER: Hernandez in 10:00.
STAR RATING: **1/4
 
6 -- "THE NATURE BOY" RIC FLAIR vs. JAY LETHAL
WINNER: Lethal in 11:00.
STAR RATING: ** -- Formula Flair match with him relying on his Greatest Hits that he can still do. Lethal kept things moving and athletic and made it a decent match.
 
7 -- ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN vs. BEER MONEY (Robert Roode & James Storm) -- For Vacant TNA Tag Team Titles
WINNERS: Shelley & Sabin 16:00 to capture the vacant TNA Tag Team Titles.
STAR RATING: **** -- Very good showcase tag match for TNA. It's the type of the match the Guns should have had the first time they won the tag titles. It felt like a throwback to the stronger WCW Tag Team Title matches in the late-'80s and early-'90s with various creative, athletic established teams battling over the belts, from the Rock & Roll Express to the Midnight Express to the Southern Boys and many others.
 
8 -- KURT ANGLE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO
WINNER: Angle in 12:00.
STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Very good match. Not a show-stealer, but a very good supporting semi-main event straight-up battle. Refreshing not to see ref bumps, interference, secret masked people, or anything else. You need a match like that more often to make the other stuff stand out. Instead, this really stood out, in a good way.
 
9 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. ABYSS vs. MR ANDERSON vs. JEFF HARDY -- TNA World Hvt. Title
WINNER: RVD in 13:00 to retain the TNA World Hvt. Title.
STAR RATING: **1/2 -- A bit of a clustermess a lot of the time. Just too many moving parts. So just an okay main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 13 2010, 02:54 pm
Ring of Honor TV Results: 7-12-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10012935.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Necro Butcher defeated Bobby Beverly in 3:30. Necro knocked Beverly to ringside about a minute in, and Nana and Osiris put the boots to him. Necro hit Beverly in the midsection with a chair, then a bulldog onto the chair. He covered, but pulled Beverly up at two and hit a chokeslam and Tiger Driver on the chair for the win.

Post match, Necro set up two chairs back to back and side slammed Beverly onto the upright backs. Ouch.

Joe's Judgment: I still don't care about Necro, and apparently the live crowd doesn't either. There's potential, particularly if Necro actually changes a little, but right now, it's kinda... boring.

2. Eddie Edwards defeated Andy "Right Leg" Ridge in a Ten Minute Hunt match in 3:02. Edwards dominated. Ridge got one kick, and blocked an Edwards powerbomb, but Edwards hit it shortly after, then locked in the Achilles Lock for the submission win.

Joe's Judgment: Edwards looked really strong here. I had thought the belt should be defended more, but this could also work. We'll see.

3. Austin Aries and the All-Night Express (Kenny King and Rhett Titus) vs. Tyler Black, Jerry Lynn, and Delirious went to an apparent no-contest at 13:29. Lynn and King got in the ring to start the match, while the other four brawled at ringside. The faces dominated the early action, but Aries got two at 5:30 after a slingshot elbow. King worked over Lynn, and Lynn made a hot tag to Delirious as King tagged in Aries.

Aries knocked Delirious to ringside and King and Titus threw him into the guardrail and smashed him into the ground. Titus choked Delirious in the ropes and hit a dropkick for two. Delirious kept going for Aries as King and Titus held him back. King and Aries double-teamed Lynn, but Black hit a double leaping clothesline and Lynn hit a TKO on Titus for two.

Lynn and Aries climbed the ropes on opposite corners, but King and Black hit simultaneous kicks to their heads. Delirious hit Shadows Over Hell on Titus and covered, but Aries broke it up at two. Lynn and Delirous hit dives against the protests of referee Paul Turner. Delirious and Lynn brawled with King and Aries at ringside, and Turner threw the match out.

Black tried a dive, but Turner stopped him, so Black threw him out of the ring and went for the dive anyway. Suddenly, Kevin Steen appeared in the ring, and hit Black with a package piledriver. A graphic noted that Black is defending against Steen next week in Chicago, and a video hyped that weekend of shows, Thursday in Louisville, Friday in Collinsville, IL, and Saturday in Chicago.

Joe's Judgment: I'm not sure I could have cared much less about half the guys in this match. The non-finish seemed weak and definitely came out of nowhere, but there was a good deal of action in the match and at least there was a logical reason for it. The Steen thing would have been a lot better had they not mentioned that Steen was challenging Black several times in the show before that moment. I think there's potential in a Steen/Black feud and I hope they don't just blow it off quickly with the one match in Chicago.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 13 2010, 02:55 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-12-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42461.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ALICIA FOX vs. GAIL KIM

Eve joined Cole and Lawler at ringside. Lawler asked her how it felt to be the best looking woman in the building. Eve said if Fox can look at herself in the mirror and feel proud of her title win, then more power to it. She said she'd like to get a rematch and she won't fall for the same fake leg injury trick again. Lawler led Eve through commentary the way Lance Russell would lead a green wrestler through an interview on Memphis Wrestling 30 years ago.

WINNER: Fox in 2:00.

2 -- TAMINA & JIMMY & JEY USO vs. THE HART DYNASTY (Tyson Kidd & David Hart Smith) & NATALYA

Cole and Lawler plugged the Tag Team Title match with the two teams in this match on Sunday. Lawler noted that Florence Henderson, the mother on "The Brady Bunch," was guest host tonight. Tamina interfered to cost Kidd his early offensive flurry. Cole said "there is tremendous sports entertainment heritage in the ring right now." After 20 years it still hasn't caught on and it won't. Tamina and Natayla brawled at ringside as Jey and Jimmy double-teamed DHS leading to a big top rope splash by Jey for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos & Tamina in 3:00.

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. EDGE

Cole and Lawler said whatever these two do to each other in this match will pale compared to what they do to each other and others on Sunday in the MITB match. Edge set up a punt kick on Orton at 4:00, but Orton avoided it and snapped Edge to the mat with a powerslam out of nowhere. Edge threw Orton to the floor a minute later and they cut to a break at 5:00. [c] Orton took over at 9:00 with two clotheslines and another snap powerslam. Edge countered a second rope DDT by Orton with his implant DDT for a two count. Edge charged at Orton for a spear, but Orton met him with a kick. It was an awkward exchange, with Orton a bit late with the kick and Edge having to stop and wait briefly for it. Edge blocked Orton's RKO attempt. Orton leapfrogged Edge as he charged and then schoolboyed him. Cole turned up the volume and the crowd was popping for it all. Orton gave Edge a backbreaker and then pounded the mat. Then Jericho walked to ringside and threw his jacket into the ring. Edge then slammed a distracted Orton backward to the mat and leverage pinned him for a three count. Jericho gave Edge a Code Breake.r Orton gave Jericho an RKO. Evan Bourne ran out and spin wheel kicked Orton and then set up Air Bourne from more than half way across the ring. Orton, though, countered with an RKO. The camera angle choices weren't the best by the director. A wide shot would have been than the quick change of view mid-move, but it was still a pretty cool sequence. They went to a wide angle shot on the replay.

WINNER: Edge in 12:00.

STAR RATING: *** -- It really picked up at the end.

4 -- MARK HENRY vs. THE MIZ

Henry overpowered Henry early. He pressed Miz into the air and dropped him face-down on the mat. Miz rolled to ringside. Henry threw him into the ring apron. Miz ducked a charging Henry, who went head-first into the G.M. podium structure that Cole stands on to read the emails. Miz then threw a blue plastic box on him and a bunch of garbage. Lawler said it was adding insult to injury. Miz stood around looking serious, because that's his new thing - show a serious, vicious side to his previously good-for-a-few-laughs persona. Henry struggled to stand up.

WINNER: No decision announced, presumably a double countout, in 1:00.

5 -- WILLIAM REGAL & PRIMO & ZACH RYDER & DOINK vs. SANTINO & VLADIMIR KOZLOV & THE GREAT KHALI & GOLDUST

Cole asked, "Where did they dig Doink up from?" She got a kick out of the bounce in the ring as the wrestlers entered the ring. I'm suppose 15 years ago Dustin Rhodes and William Regal would be glad to know they're alive and well and still earning money on national TV in pro wrestling, but this is hardly a dream scenario in terms of their talents being utilized in money-spots. Santino opened with a karate pose. Regal elbowed hi to the mat. Henderson wore Regal's robe, which distracted Regal, Santino hit Regal in the face with his signature Cobra. Chaos then broke out after Primo broke up the pin. Doink stalked Santino. Santino tagged in Khali. Doink begged off, but then tried to slam Khali. It didn't work. Doink used a squirt gun against Khali. Cole declared that Khali has been blinded. Khali recovered, punched Doink, and scored the pin. I'm happy because there was no sign of Ranjin Singh.

WINNERS: The Santino Bunch in 2:00.

-Afterward Santino moved in to kiss Henderson. Henderson ducked and walked up to Khali. She made out with him. She pretended to nearly pass out. Seriously, how does she look the same age as she did in 1974?

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE NEXUS (Wade Barrett & Skip Sheffield & David Otunga & Heath Slater & Michael Tarver & Justin Gabriel)

Cole reviewed the two special rules the G.M. instituted for the match. Cena began against Carver. Cena successfully fended off Tarver and Gabriel. Then Sheffield entered. They had a collar-and-elbow lock-up stalemate. Cena danced with his early success. The Nexus dropped to the floor all at once to have a conference. Nexus surrounded the ring and then Slater hit Cena from behind with a cheap shot. Nexus methodically tagged in and out and took turns beating on Cena. Lawler made it seem hopeless for Cena. Cena hit Otunga with a back suplex. Barrett tagged in. Cena showed signs of life, but Barrett hit Cena with a big boot. Cena fired back with shoulder tackles and a slam to set up You Can't See Me. Lawler asked, "Are you kidding me?" Cena taunted the five Nexus members on the ring apron.

Cena dropped a fist on Barrett's head. Barrett staggered into his corner, but then walked into Cena's arms for an FU. Sheffield interfered, but the ref ruled that Sheffield actually snuck in a tag. Sheffield then nailed Cena with a clothesline. Otunga tagged in and slammed Cena, then tagged in Gabriel. He dragged Cena into the corner and set up his 450 splash. He landed it spot on and scored the pin. Lawler said it was all legal. Not entirely, since Slater's interference was illegal earlier (not cause for DQ, but still illegal).

WINNERS: Nexus in 7:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2

-Cena escaped a post-match attack and hit Slater in the back with a chair. Nexus regrouped at ringside. Nexus surrounded Cena again. Out ran Sheamus with a chair. He swung it wildly and lost his grip. He retrieved it from ringside and then helped Cena clear the ringside area of Nexus. "Those two men together tonight, enemies on Sunday," said Cole as the show faded to black.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 14 2010, 01:19 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-13-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42487.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MARK HENRY & LUCKY CANNON vs. U.S. champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY

Henry started the match for the babyface tandem and Miz declined to start opposite Henry. Henry then manhandled Riley and flung him to the outside, showing aggression after Miz's attack on Raw. Miz berated Riley for screwing up, then Henry went back to work on Riley and told Miz to tag in. Miz backed away, so Henry tagged in Lucky Cannon. Cannon and Riley went back and forth before Cannon knocked Riley to the outside. Cannon tried a plancha on the floor, but airballed and ate the ring steps. Both Rookies sold on the outside as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz finally entered the match and tagged in and out with Riley to work over Cannon. Miz continued to avoid Henry in the process. Mathews then referenced Cole's voice being in the WWE TV opening now, so he must think he's a big shot talking tag team strategy. The announcers continued to talk up Miz's new aggressiveness heading into the Money in the Bank PPV.

Miz lost control of Cannon and Henry tagged in to finally get a piece of Miz. Henry beat down Miz until Miz fell into his corner to tag in Riley. Poor Riley was scooped up into the air by Henry, who dropped him center-ring with the World's Strongest Slam. There's the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Henry & Cannon in 12:00. We know Henry won't be winning MITB now. Fine tag match with a good story carrying over from Raw. (*1/4)

2 -- BATTLE ROYAL

The involved participants are the seven make NXT Pros (no Lay-Cool), the seven remaining NXT Rookies (Titus O'Neil eliminated two weeks ago), and the six available Nexus members to bring the total to 20. They came back from the break with Mark Henry in the middle of a giant circle. The bell rang and Nexus collectively bailed out of the ring to watch the proceedings. Apparently Striker can make matches, but can't reinforce rules of matches. It's like Hertz taking a reservation, but being unable to deliver the actual car reserved. Anyways, the Rookies ganged up on Henry to eliminate him. Nexus then jumped Henry to beat him down. Eli Cottonwood was eliminated next and Nexus beat him down ringside. They proceeded to feed him to Skip Sheffield for a signature clothesline on the floor. NXT cut to break with Nexus standing off on the outside as the Pros challenged them to get on in the ring.

Back from break, Nexus hit the ring to escalate the fight. Otunga dumped Percy over the top rope as they started to clean house on Rookies and Pros. Barrett proceeded to dump McGillicutty out of the ring before Nexus regrouped in one corner. Rookies and Pros went after each other. Meanwhile, Riley was dumped to the floor with a big gash on the back of his head. It came down to a six on five match-up. Riley, Rhodes, Miz, Kofi, and Morrison were the remaining Pros with the entire cast of Rookies gone. Miz then eliminated Ryder, which drew complaints from Morrison. Miz tried to talk to Nexus about making them on Season One. "You're an idiot," Morrison told Miz. Nexus then slowly surrounded Miz, who decided to throw himself over the top rope.

So, it's Nexus vs. Rhodes, Morrison, and Kingston. Barrett provided instructions and a fight was on. Rhodes, the star of Season 2, then hopped onto the top turnbuckle to simply watch the proceedings as the two babyface Pros were beat down by Nexus. Cole said John Cena is watching every second of this right now. Kofi and Morrison teased spirited comebacks at various times as the beatings continued. Gabriel then kicked Morrison out of the ring after Morrison tried to hang onto the ropes. Kingston tried to fight all six Nexus members by himself, but they beat him down. Cody continued to watch in the background as Nexus simply stood over Kingston's fallen body before finally dumping him to the outside.

Cody was left alone in a corner of the ring. Nexus slowly approached him and Cody tried a handshake to Gabriel, who simply glared at him. Otunga wanted no part of a shake either. He finally approached the boss, Barrett, who instructed Nexus to beat him down too. Cody was then tossed out of the ring and the bell rang. Apparently it's not really every man for himself as Nexus was declared the winner(s).

WINNERS: Nexus in 16:00. They broke virtually every unwritten and written battle royal rule here, but the main point was accomplished reinforcing Nexus as a major force in WWE storylines. Nexus's methodical, calculating pace works very well for the group. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2010, 12:42 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-15-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_42520.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Chavo quickly went to work on JTG as the announcers plugged the MITB ladder match and Rey Mysterio vs. Jack Swagger title match at the PPV. They proceeded to sell the idea that every match-up in WWE is important because it brings wrestlers closer to a championship opportunity. That should be a major point of emphasis in WWE across every WWE broadcast, but we know it's not. Meanwhile, Striker made his pick that Cody Rhodes will win MITB. Striker took that back and picked Big Show. In the ring, JTG made a comeback at 4:00 and started to roll the dice, but Chavo cut him off. Chavo then went up top and nailed a frog splash for the pin and the clean win.

WINNER: Chavo Guerrero in 5:00. Surprising match result, especially after Chavo dominated most of the match and JTG had little offense throughout. It seems like JTG has fallen out of favor with management when he's losing clean to Chavo, whose entire character is built on the idea that he can't accomplish anything on his own, and considering Chavo was a comedy figure on Raw most of last year. (*)

2 -- CURT HAWKINS & VANCE ARCHER vs. MATT CROSS & JAMIN CONSECO

Hawkins, in his bright red pants, started things off against Jamin and roughed him up for a bit. Archer then tagged in and delivered a boot to Jamin's head before paintbrushing him. Cross then tagged in and Vance immediately clotheslined him off the apron. Back in the ring, Cross surprised Archer with a roll-up attempt, which led to Archer blasting him with a big clothesline. Archer then tagged in Hawkins, who came off the top rope with an elbow drop following a reverse DDT from Archer. Hawkins with the cover on Cross for the win.

WINNERS: Hawkins & Archer in 3:00. Effective squash to get over the tag team as a potential threat to the Unified tag titles. (n/a)

3 -- BELLA TWINS vs. MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL

Jillian started things off for Team Blonde and took control of the action. She did a Maryse-style hair flip after executing a move, which drew some mock laughter from Maryse. Maryse then tagged in and continued to work on Nikki before Brie tagged in at 2:00. Maryse and Jillian tried to pull a switcheroo themselves, which distracted the ref and the Bellas for the heels to re-take control. Jillian hit a Samoan Drop, but didn't make a cover when it looked good for the finish if this were a shoot. Moments later, the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo and surprised Jillian with a roll-up for the win. Jillian sold frustration and threw a fit that her plan back-fired and the Bellas one-upped her once again. Maryse just sold exasperation in her own way.

WINNERS: Bellas in 4:00. Jillian got her weekly comeuppance and Maryse was dragged into the mix to help advance the storyline another week. It's basically giving the Bellas something to do to stay on TV with the weekly guest hosts being phased out. (*)

4 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. YOSHI TATSU

Jericho took control of the match while the announcers talked about Nexus's potential involvement in the MITB PPV, specifically Cena vs. Sheamus. They cut to an early break with Jericho continuing to dominate.

Back from break, Jericho was heelishly toying with Tatsu, who fired back with a kick or two until Jericho cut him off. Jericho went back to work on Yoshi with forearms and a running dropkick to the back of the head. Jericho then dumped Yoshi to the outside and did the lazy-man pose across the top turnbuckle. Ringside, Yoshi was bleeding from the eye as medics checked on him while Jericho sat down in a chair to sell total control of the match. Yoshi's cut was eventually closed up and Jericho went back to work on Yoshi in the ring. Yoshi then avoided a running splash and landed kick strikes until Jericho cut him off again with a boot to the face out of the corner.

At 10:00, Jericho went back to work on the head and neck region until Yoshi cut him off with a knife-edge chop. Whoops. Yoshi then hit a spinning heel kick for a two count. Yoshi tried to follow with a clothesline, but Jericho countered with a butterfly suplex backbreaker for a two count. Jericho paintbrushed Yoshi again, so Yoshi came back with a palm thrust into a running knee strike to the face. Yoshi with another cover, but Jericho kicked out. Yoshi tried to mount some offense, but Jericho dropped him with a clothesline for a two count. Cole said Jericho really didn't want to find himself in this type of fight three days before the MITB PPV.

Jericho then tried to discard Yoshi, but Yoshi skinned the cat and surprised Jericho back in the ring with a kick strike to the face. Yoshi went up top for a trademark spin kick, but Jericho ducked. Jericho then slapped on the Walls of Jericho center ring. Yoshi sold tapping out as the crowd encouraged him to hold on. They went to the trademark "Steve Austin in the Sharpshooter at WrestleMania 13" camera shot to capture Yoshi's grit. Jericho then dragged Yoshi back to center ring in the Walls and Yoshi tapped out to give Jericho the win. Afterward, they recapped the high points of the match before showing Jericho cockily walking away from the ring gloating to the ringside fans.

WINNER: Jericho via submission in 12:00. Nice match with Jericho rightfully getting in the majority of offense with Yoshi still getting over his babyface persona. Good TV main event continuing to set up the MITB PPV with a more realistic-looking match than typically seen on WWE TV. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 17 2010, 11:24 am
TNA Impact! Results: 7-15-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42522.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and the final segment of the program.

1 -- TAYLOR WILDE vs. SARITA - Street Fight

The brawl backstage continued in the ring and at ringside. Wilde dropkicked Sarita at ringside, knocking her over the ring barrier. Sarita ended up choking Wilde from over the railing with a strap. Taylor passed out and the ref stopped the match.

WINNER: Sarita in 5:00.

2 -- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS - Non-Title I-Quit match

Williams dominated almost the entire first four minutes, but Kendrick side-stepped a charging Williams. Kendrick applied his cobra clutch and Williams quickly tapped.

WINNER: Kendrick in 4:00.

3 -- ROB TERRY vs. DESMOND WOLFE vs. SAMOA JOE

Terry got a ring entrance. Wolfe did not. He was already in the ring. Joe came out last. The crowd loudly chanted "Joe! Joe! Joe!" at the start. Brutus Magnus joined Taz and Tenay on commentary. He told Tenay that he has not aged well. "If you're going to have television, you need a handsome devil to sell television ratings. It doesn't get much more handsome than me," he said. He said Wolfe is a thinking man's wrestler. He said he's a big fan of Chelsea. As Terry celebrated a spin kick on Wolfe, Joe nailed him with a flying kick off the ropes. Joe then choked out the dazed Wolfe for the win.

WINNER: Joe in 6:00.

4 -- THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. BEER MONEY -- Ladder Match

Four-way action opened the match. The Guns knocked Beer Money to the floor, then dove through the ropes and knocked them into the security railing. TNA showed multiple replays. Sabin brought a ladder into the ring as Sabin held off Beer Money. Sabin climbed the ladder, but James Storm yanked him off. At 3:00 Storm and Robert Roode caught Sabin and threw him crotch-first into a ladder propped in the corner. Storm climbed the ladder, but Shelley yanked him down. Shelley yanked Roode off the ladder at 5:00 and bridged another ladder off the second rope to the standing ladder. Sabin helped Shelley drop Roode face-first on the bridged ladder. Storm yanked Shelley off the ladder seconds later and then gave him a knee-driver backbreaker. Storm dropped the ladder flat on the mat and then set up a superplex on Sabin. Sabin blocked it and then hung Storm upside down and slidekicked the ladder into Storm's face. Sabin dove over the top rope onto Roode lying on a bridged ladder. The crowd chanted "TNA! TNA!" Taz challenged viewers to find action like this anywhere else on prime time TV. Sabin reached for the briefcase admist chaos in the ring. The ladder was off-center. Roode met him on the top. Sabin yanked his head into the ladder and sent him to the floor. Sabin grabbed the contract hanging over the ring. Storm hit him with the beer bottle. Earl Hebner saw Storm with the contract and awarded him the match. The starting the referee, Brian Hebner, was KO'd at ringside.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 10:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- A spotfest with some dazzling athleticism. Booking this rematch so soon diminished what fans paid for on PPV on Sunday. The controversial finish was overdone and I'm not eager to see a referee-based storyline. It's distracting and rarely if ever pays off for the time invested in it.

5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Pope won quickly and cleanly. Taz declared it a big upset. What did that accomplish? It made Morgan look weak, but was just thrown out there and didn't really help Pope. It just seemed like Morgan had an off-night.

WINNER: The Pope in 1:00.

6 -- JEFF HARDY vs. JAY LETHAL

Taz and Tenay agreed Lethal was the underdog considering Hardy's career history of big matches. Lethal dove onto Hardy at ringside at 1:00. The former ECW wrestlers walked through the crowd. The fans chanted "ECW! ECW!" Tenay announced that Kurt Angle would face Hernandez, no. 7 in the rankings next week on Impact, plus Beer Money would face The Guns in a the second match in their Best of Five series in a street fight. Lethal rallied and hit Hardy with a missile dropkick off the top rope for a two count. Hardycountered the Lethal Combination with a Twist of Fate and then hit a Swanton Bomb on Lethal for a clean win.

WINNER: Hardy in 6:00.

STAR RATING: ** -- Nice short TV match, but the as was the case from start to finish on this show, it's just too many matches thrown out there without enough context or build up and thus the loss hurts Lethal more than it does anything for Hardy. It just offsets whatever momentum Lethal might have had from beating Flair.

Abyss told RVD that when "they" arrive "they" are taking TNA over. He said RVD, Dixie Carter, and the ignorant sheep (fans) can't stop them. Abyss said "they" have asked him to pave the way for them, and part of that is taking the TNA World Title off of him. He said they laid out a blue print and it prompts a question for RVD. He said he is going to hang Janice 15 feet above the ring and then they can have the most extreme match in the history of professional wrestling. He said they can use chairs, tacks, ladders, glass, barbed wire, whatever they want. He said Janice told him that "she wants a piece of your ***." Abyss told RVD the only thing left is the when and the where, and he suggested they get extreme.

RVD yanked the mic from Abyss and said he knows what the title means to everyone. He said he will try not to take things too personally. He said what he loves about being World Champion is the standards he gets to set against a monstrous challenge like him. He jumped Abyss with a rapid-fire attack. Abyss made a comeback with a big boot and then a chokeslam. Mick Foley then made his return. He walked onto the stage. Tenay said he hadn't seen him in months since he was fired by Bischoff. Stevie Richards, Raven, Tommy Dreamer, and Rhino jumped over the guard rail and attacked Abyss. Taz said those guys don't even work for TNA as far as he knows. Security intervened. Then the lower card wrestlers tried to run to the ring, but they were easily fought off. Kendrick and Wolfe ran out and took a beating. TNA agents D-Lo Brown, Terry Taylor, Pat Kinney, and Al Snow ran out, but Snow joined the ECW wrestlers. RVD also fought on the side of the ECW wrestlers against TNA. Some higher level TNA wrestlers ran out including Matt Morgan and Devon. Jarrett then ran out and yelled at Dreamer. They showed Dixie Carter standing at ringside looking worried. Police entered the ring and threatened wrestlers with mace. Dixie stepped onto the ramp and told everyone to stop. She said, " Listen! I invited them!" Everyone in the ring look puzzled. That was the cliffhanger.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2010, 06:13 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-16-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42542.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and the final show segment.

1 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

The briefcase, of course, hung over the ring for effect. They showed Kofi getting beat up on NXT by Nexus this past Tuesday. Kofi kipped up out of a headscissors early on. Cody pounded away on his opponent with rights, then stomped him in the corner. He hung Kofi stomach-first on to the top rope, then kicked him to ringside as they went to break.

Rhodes held serve on offense when the show returned. He went into an abdominal stretch as the crowd cheered on the fan favorite. From his back, Kofi was able to hurricanrana Cody down and began to build momentum. Desperation second-rope bulldog by Rhode broke that up. Kingston later came off the top with a cross-body that hurt Kofi as well. Then, Kane’s music played and he walked out, chokeslamming both competitors.

WINNER: No Contest (no bell), about 10:12. Can I get a friggin’ bell PLEASE, WWE? How hard is it, really? They’ve been doing this “no announcement of the finish” way too often lately.

2 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. CHRISTIAN

Christian made McIntyre chase him, playing mind games as the match began. Christian flew onto Mac from the top rope to the arena floor. Back in the ring, he landed another for a near-fall. McIntyre took over on offense and Christian tried a Tornado DDT, but Drew pushed him to the floor. They went to break at this point.

Christian barely made it back in before the ten-count during the break, apparently. After a few knees to McIntyre, the Tornado DDT was finally hit. Another DDT variation from Christian, this time for two. Dropkick off the top for two. He went to the second rope, but McIntyre booted him in the chest in mid-air. Monkey flip in the corner and both men went to the second rope. Christian elbowed Drew down and did a sunset flip for two. Finishers of both men were countered by the other. Thumb to the eye by McIntyre, and the ref didn’t see it. He finished Christian with his Future Shock DDT.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 11:30. A notch better than the opening match. Christian continues to bring it, and McIntyre is improving.

3 – LAYLA & TRENT BARRETA vs. KELLY KELLY & CHRIS MASTERS

Poor Masters had to come out to Kelly’s jam. Caylen Croft and Tiffany were the persons at ringside for this one, for those scoring at home. Layla got her feet up on a cartwheel elbow attempt by Kelly in the corner. Soon after, Rosa Mendes jump roped her way to the ring, to show Layla how she’s trying to get in shape. The Dudebusters assisted her in Double Dutch, pissing Layla off. Masters clotheslined Barreta on the outside, while Kelly K2’d the distracted Layla for the win.

WINNERS: Kelly & Masters, at 1:33. Just a comedy match to hype Kelly vs. Layla for Sunday. Barreta was an odd choice for Layla’s partner, though.

4 – MATT HARDY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Hardy worked over Ziggler on the ground to start. Ziggler went to the top but missed an axe-handle, catching a fist in the gut instead. Hardy clotheslined Ziggler outside the ring. Ziggler turned things around by slamming Matt into the barricade as they went to break.

Hardy worked out of a chin-lock, but was sent crashing back down to the canvas. Back to another rest-hold. Matt made a comeback and landed a patented elbow to the back of Ziggler’s neck off the second rope. Hardy turned a Fame-Asser attempt by Ziggler into a powerbomb in a nice sequence. Side Effect by Hardy, but Ziggler grabbed the bottom rope on the pin attempt. Vickie Guerrero, who was at ringside with Ziggler, got on the apron after Ziggler failed on a sleeper attempt. Ziggler pushed Matt into Vickie, but Matt stopped short. That allowed Ziggler to land the Zig Zag for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 10:57.

- Jack Swagger and his daddy came out. Swagger said winning his title back is job number one, so he wants to clear his name to Kane. He said that on that Memorial Day, he spent time with the man who made him the All-American American: His father. The two men hugged in the ring. Jack said he and his dad were winning and looking good that day. They showed pics of the two doing push-ups and workouts in the morning. More pics on the Titan-Tron, this time of them winning a fishing contest, with big, goofy grins of course. No proof of the time or date of these photos, by the way. Finally, pics of them winning a chicken-wing eating contest. Kane had had enough and he came out. He got into the ring and said he didn’t believe any of it. Swagger shared more pics as proof, with him and his father running a 5K. Kane tired of this, and grabbed Jack by the throat as his dad tried to verbally intervene. Swagger bopped Kane with the mic and applied the ankle-lock as his dad cheered him on. Rey hobbled out and gave the 619 to Swagger, then walked over him to leave the ring. Kane ended up locking both Swaggers in his grip, but Jack got out by stepping on Kane’s foot. He fled to ringside, pleading with Kane to let go of his daddy. He turned his back at ringside as Kane chokeslammed Mr. Swagger. Jack began heading to the back, turning around in the aisle long enough to watch his dad get Tombstoned. He sold distraught as Kane cued his flames. They replayed the beating then Kane’s face, cloaked in his red light, was the final image.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2010, 01:12 pm
WWE Money in the Bank PPV Results: 7-18-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_42569.shtml) or to view complete report without pop-ups, click my TOKYOPOP Blog link under my sig pic.

1 -- SMACKDOWN'S MITB LADDER MATCH
WINNER: Kane at 26:18. Excellent MITB ladder match. Nice false finishes and big moments while telling some good stories within the match. There's always the "health concern" issue for these types of matches, which has to be balanced with the entertainment value of the match. At least there weren't any head shots using weapons, which is a good thing. Now, the rest of the PPV has a tall order living up to a thrilling, highspot-type match. (****)

2 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX vs. EVE TORRES -- Divas Title match
WINNER: Alicia Fox at 5:54 to retain the Divas Title. Fine title match. Alicia continues to fit the role as the Raw brand's heel champion. It seems to set up nicely for Melina to enter the picture as the next challenger. (*)

3 -- Unified tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. USO BROTHERS (JEY & JIMMY USO w/Tamina) -- Unified tag title match
WINNERS: Hart Dynasty at 5:54 to retain the Unified tag titles. WWE has to walk a fine line between using the past to get over the second-generation stars, but not making it to where the audience would rather see the original. HD needs to find a way to stand out more than just using the Hart name, while WWE hasn't done enough with the Usos since they debuted a few months ago and really had a stand-out introduction promo. The tag title match was fine, but the biggest pop of the match was for Natalya dropping Tamina with a bodyslam ringside. (*1/2)

4 -- World Hvt. champion REY MYSTERIO vs. JACK SWAGGER -- WWE World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Mysterio at 10:45 to retain the World Hvt. Title. The finish of the match pretty much confirmed WWE trying to turn Swagger into their version of Kurt Angle. Swagger and Rey worked well together playing off the big man vs. little man match-up. But, when the announcers have to constantly ask the kayfabe question of how they're recovering from each other's offense, it means there isn't long-term selling. There wasn't much of that here, which took away from the overall quality of the match. But, the crowd was into the story and Swagger got over his power offense and menacing heel persona. (**3/4)

Post-match: Swagger attacked Mysterio as he celebrated and pounded Rey with forearms. Swagger then slapped on the anklelock and wrenched on Rey's ankle as Rey tapped out repeatedly. Suddenly, Kane hit the ring, but sans briefcase. Kane beat down Swagger and knocked him to the outside. Kane beat up Swagger and took him to the back. They went back to Rey celebrating in the ring as Striker noted Rey pulling a trick from Eddie Guerrero's playbook. Suddenly, Kane's music hit. This time, Kane emerged with briefcase in hand and referee Charles Robinson. The announcers were silent as Kane slowly entered the ring. Kane held the case and handed it to the referee to officially cash in the case.

5 -- World Hvt. champion REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE -- WWE World Hvt. Title match
WINNER: Kane at 0:54 to capture the World Hvt. Title. This sure seems to be setting up Kane vs. The Undertaker at Summerslam if Taker is ready, health-wise, for the title match. The male audience in the crowd was pro-Kane as he cashed in on the babyface Mysterio, which was interesting. Smackdown's storylines should be interesting going to Summerslam now. (n/a)

6 -- Women's champion LAYLA (w/Michelle McCool) vs. KELLY KELLY (w/Tiffany) -- Women's Title match
WINNER: Layla at 3:59 to retain the Women's Title. A lot of moving parts here for a match that seemed to fit on TV rather than PPV. (n/a)

7 -- RAW'S MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH
WINNER: Miz at 20:26 to earn a future WWE Title match. Another excellent MITB ladder match. This one was a little different than Smackdown's, which had plenty of good stories within the story thanks to Smackdown's writers doing the heavy lifting on Smackdown leading to the PPV. Raw's was more dependent on some creative spots, Evan Bourne having another stand-out night, and some very good false finishes utilizing Randy Orton. It will be a good debate on whether Raw's or Smackdown's MITB match was better. I'm going to lean slightly toward the Raw side. (****1/4)

8 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match -- Steel cage match
WINNER: Sheamus at 23:03. Decent, but not satisfying main event title match. They had a slow - almost too-slow at times - pace to the match before picking up steam in the second-half with some strong false finishes. Nexus's interference and WWE's cage match stipulation that you can climb out of the cage pretty much defeated the purpose of the cage and WWE selling the PPV on the idea that Nexus would be kept out of the cage. It will be interesting to see where they go with Sheamus at Summerslam if Triple H is indeed unavailable. Sheamus vs. Randy Orton is a potential candidate. Some form of a Cena vs. Nexus match at Summerslam also seems likely. (***)

FINAL THOUGHT: Overall, a strong PPV thanks to two four-star-plus Money in the Bank ladder matches telling some good stories within the matches. With the way the main event finished, WWE has to be careful not to create go-away heat on Nexus after investing two months on building up the group. They're already in the danger zone of go-away heat on the Raw GM.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 21 2010, 12:21 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42593.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only. The following post will detail the end of the show segment.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE -- #1 contender match to WWE Title

Edge and Jericho started things off with a unified attack on Orton. They went for a double backdrop, but Orton pulled out a signature counter with a double DDT. He made a cover on Edge for a two count. Orton then went to work on Edge with a methodical attack as Jericho recovered on the outside. Orton whipped Edge hard into the corner, then went down on both hands to tease the RKO. Edge shoved him away, though, and Orton ran into Jericho for a codebreaker out of nowhere. Jericho attempted a cover, but Edge broke it up. Jericho and Edge then brawled to the outside. Edge rammed Jericho off the announce table and they cut to break with action on the floor.

They returned from break with Jericho and Edge still on the outside as Lawler reset that the winner will face Sheamus for the WWE Title at Summerslam. Jericho then crawled back onto the ring apron and Orton bumped him back to the floor. Edge and Jericho tried to crawl back in again, but Edge scampered away and Jericho took the signature spike DDT off the middle rope. Orton tried a cover, but Edge yanked Orton out of the ring. Some good sequences so far in the match. They reset at 9:00 with Edge and Orton in the ring, but Jericho yanked Edge out of the ring and went to work on Orton. Jericho tried a pin with his feet on the ropes, but Orton kicked out in time.

At 10:00, Jericho settled into a reverse chinlock on Orton as the crowd rallied behind Orton. They came to their feet and Orton mounted a comeback with two knock-down clotheslines followed by a snap powerslam for a nearfall. Edge then tried to sneak in, but Orton dropped him with a fallaway backbreaker for another two count. Orton kicked Edge to the outside again, then he teased the spike DDT on Jericho again, but Jericho countered with the Walls of Jericho. They went to the Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13 camera shot of Orton trying to fight the hold, then Jericho pulled him back to center ring. Suddenly, Edge entered the ring and grabbed Jericho for a DDT that resulted in a two count.

Edge measured Jericho for a spear moments later, but Jericho countered with a roll-through into the Walls of Jericho. Edge fought the hold and grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Edge tried to come back with a roll-up pin, but Jericho kicked out. Edge then clotheslined Jericho over the top rope and Orton snuck in the back door. He tried the RKO, but Edge blocked with a reverse DDT for another close nearfall. Suddenly, all three men traded nearfalls before all three men hit a triple knock-down clothesline to put everyone on the mat.

They reset with Jericho shoving Edge to the outside, then Orton teased the RKO on Jericho, who blocked. Jericho teased the Lionsault, but Orton moved. Orton then stalked Jericho and finally connected with the RKO. Edge tried to run in with the spear, but Orton dropped him with the RKO. Orton then covered Edge for a three count to win as the crowd popped for Orton's victory. Post-match: Orton maintained his cool demeanor as a graphic showed Orton going to Summerslam. After a replay of the high points in the match, they showed Orton staring into the crowd with an icy glare. It's Sheamus vs. Orton at Summerslam.

WINNER: Orton at 15:10 to become #1 contender. WWE obviously saw how hot the crowd was for Orton almost winning the MITB match last night and pulled the trigger on the hot babyface in the main event of the second-biggest PPV of the year. Strong match despite the dependence on wrestlers escaping/countering/blocking trademark finishing moves for false finishes. The two and three-man spots were well-timed and well-executed in the format. Very interesting start to the show, but accomplishing the goal of getting the Summerslam main event in the hands of the audience right off the bat. (***)

2 -- EVE TORRES vs. MARYSE (w/Ted DiBiase)

Maryse talked trash to Eve before the match started, so Eve slapped her. DiBiase noted Maryse will become #1 contender to the Divas Title if she wins tonight. Eve then hit a kick to the face out of the corner and made a cover. Maryse put her foot on the bottom rope in-between the two and three, but the ref didn't see it and awarded Eve the win. DiBiase, agitated, jumped into the ring and screamed at the ref. Suddenly, John Morrison hit the ring in street clothes and sporting a bandage over his left arm to jump DiBiase. Morrison nailed a kick strike to the face, then hit Starship Pain. Morrison stood tall over DiBiase with a more serious demeanor as Maryse sold agitation with things falling apart again. Morrison stared down Maryse as he left the ring, then helped DiBiase recover as DiBiase stared down Morrison.

WINNER: Eve at 1:15. Too short to amount to much, but nice follow-up on DiBiase vs. Morrison to set up what appears to be a singles match at Summerslam. (n/a)

3 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

Sheamus tried an early pump kick, but Bourne ducked while still fixing his trunks. Bourne then cleared Sheamus to the outside with a kick strike. Sheamus smashed the announce table in frustration while Miz smirked and waved his briefcase in Sheamus's face. They cut to break with Sheamus still complaining on the outside.

Back from break, Sheamus was in control of the match as Miz continued to watch. Sheamus continued to dominate as the crowd tried to rally behind Bourne. Bourne tried to come back with a head scissors, but Sheamus countered with a back breaker for a two count. Sheamus went back to work on Bourne, who got to his feet and landed kick strikes to the thigh. Sheamus then paintbrushed him across the face, so Bourne fired off a kick to the head. Bourne mounted some offense, then hit a heel kick to the face. Sheamus got up and Bourne answered with another kick. Bourne then tried a roll up, but Sheamus kicked out. Bourne followed with a knock-down kick and Bourne went up top to tease the Air Bourne. Sheamus rolled to the outside, though, so Bourne redirected his attack with a flying splash on the floor.

On the floor, Sheamus shoved Bourne into a cameraman as the ref was in the middle of a ten count. Bourne made it back into the ring, but Sheamus crotched him across the middle rope after using the ref as a shield. Sheamus then hit his big bicycle kick that floored Bourne and took the air out of the building. Sheamus made the cover for the win as Miz mockingly applauded ringside.

WINNER: Sheamus at 10:31. Decent TV match that kept Sheamus strong and kept Bourne in the main event picture with a decent showing against the champ. Sheamus gave him good offense to make sure Bourne got over his signature spots in the match. The key is to reinforce that Bourne belongs in the picture even if he loses. (*1/2)

4 -- WILLIAM REGAL & ZACK RYDER vs. SANTINO MARELLA & KOZLOV

Santino and Ryder started things off as Cole plugged Raw coming up on the 900th episode of the series next month. Santino then tried a handspring move, but Ryder ducked underneath him and Santino kinda fell to the mat. Santino then tagged in Kozlov and Regal entered for Ryder. Kozlov then tagged in Santino, who instantly lost control of the match to Regal. Regal screamed as he executed a signature left-arm lariat for a two count. Ryder followed with some offense to keep the heels in control on Santino. Ryder tried to follow with a top rope dropkick, but Santino moved out of the way. Kozlov then tagged in to no reaction and worked on Ryder. Kozlov landed a big powerslam and scored a two count when Regal tried to interfere. Kozlov followed up with the Iron Curtain on Ryder before Santino begged to tag in. Santino then hit his sailor's salute diving fist drop on Ryder for the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 2:55. Poor Ryder. And the Santino and Kozlov team must continue. The match was fine and harmless, overall. (*)

5 -- WADE BARRETT vs. MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and Barrett ducked under the ropes to stand on the ring apron for some space from Henry. Barrett heelishly demanded Henry back up, so he re-entered the ring. Henry knocked him down with a head butt and Barrett rolled back to the outside. Barrett took his time re-entering the ring and they locked up with Barrett landing a knee to the gut. Barrett tried a head butt, but Henry no-sold and shot him a look before landing a big chop to the head. Henry followed with a knock-down clothesline for a one count. Henry went back to work on Barrett, who came back with a head butt and right hands that staggered Henry.

Barrett tried a running clothesline, but Henry countered with a powerslam for a two count. Henry then dragged Barrett to the corner for a big move, but Nexus came out on stage. Henry was distracted momentarily, which allowed Barrett to cut him off on the second rope. Barrett then lifted Henry in the air for his overhead slam finisher, but Henry kinda slipped off and Barrett just dropped him hard to the mat. Barrett made a cover for the win.

WINNER: Barrett at 3:20. Fine TV match. Barrett scored a needed win to give the group some measure of credibility in the ring, while enhancing their heel heat with the distraction for the win. Henry isn't exactly a strong babyface character, but it was fine. (*)

Ending sequence of events on RAW will be posted next...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 21 2010, 12:22 am
In-ring: Nexus was still assembled in the ring as Cole repeated the line that Barrett may have proved Nexus is just as strong individually as a group. They recapped the end of Henry vs. Barrett, then cut back to the ring. Michael Tarver started a promo for Nexus by suggesting they will make Cena's life miserable if he doesn't join the group. He said Cena needs to show some remorse for assaulting Darren "weird haircut" Young and the rest of the group last night. Tarver said if he does, then maybe they will consider ending this feud. Tarver said everything that's happened is on him. Tarver paused.

John Cena's music hit and Cena slowly walked out on stage to a big pop. Cena looked into the crowd as he contemplated what's up next. Cena walked to the ring and stood on the ring apron as his music stopped. Nexus was in a straight line in the ring as Cena addressed them from the ring apron. Cena thanked them for meeting him in the ring, then he slowly entered the ring. Cena recapped Nexus costing him two WWE Title matches since they've arrived on the scene. He said he's apparently not part of their big picture and Sheamus made a truce with them. He said he should have done that a long time ago.

Cena paused before saying, "I'm sorry, guys, uh..." He said he's putting himself in front of all them to look them all in the eye. Barrett said their answer is no. He said he's not interested in a truce or any type of peace. Barrett said he wants something much, much bigger. Barrett paused for a "Cena, Cena" chant. He told Cena not to listen to the fans, but listen to him. Barrett said he wants Cena to join the group. He wants him to join the Nexus. Cena stared blankly ahead. Barrett said Cena can achieve something ten times greater than everything he's accomplished in his career. He said Nexus is the present and future of WWE, and together, they would be unstoppable. Barrett told him he doesn't have much of a choice because "you're either Nexus or against us."

The crowd screamed for Cena not to join the group as he stared down at the mat contemplating things. Cena looked up at the Nexus group and stared them down before looking into the crowd. Cena just shook his head and said he can't do it. The crowd popped. Barrett took a deep breath and said that's very unfortunate because they have a very different proposition. He told Cena he could leave the ring and show the world he's a coward...or, he could stand in the ring and they will give him the most vicious beating Nexus has every given. Cena stared ahead again and shook his head from side to side. Cena teased backing away, then he left the ring.

Cena started to leave up the entranceramp, then he stopped at the top of the ramp. He said he needs to say one more thing. Cena said whether he does it by himself or does it with help, he will take each and every one of the Nexus group down. Cena started walking back to the ring. He said the peace offering was just a test to see how Nexus would react. Cena said he got his answer. He said he's been quietly forming a team. "A team that will take down Nexus at Summerslam," he said. Cena said Nexus wanted him to join the group, but now the Nexus is history at Summerslam.

Edge's music hit and out came Edge selling ribs to join Cena on the entrance ramp. Edge and Cena together. That's a sight. John Morrison came out next with a determined look on his face. R-Truth was out next. Great Khali was out next. Does this tie together Ranjin Singh wanting a more aggressive Khali? Or, is that too logical? Anyways, Chris Jericho came out sixth to join Cena's group. And the final member of Cena's team is...Bret Hart. There's your big surprise on the show, which popped the crowd huge.

Hart walked out on stage and slapped hands with Cena, then Team Cena stormed the ring and chased off Nexus, who ran through the stands to the top of the stands. Team Cena stood tall in the ring with Bret Hart smiling as Nexus stood their ground at the top of the arena. Lawler protected Nexus by saying he knows Nexus will regroup and come back with something, but look at the team Cena has assembled. They closed with a final shot of Team Cena standing tall in the ring. PYB (3) talk time: 13:26.

CLOSING THOUGHTS: Very strong episode of Raw advancing from the MITB PPV to Summerslam. Virtually everything on the show had a purpose and the action on the show was strong throughout. It came across like WWE recognized a sense of urgency to hit the ground running hyping their second biggest PPV of the year and they set up two strong matches for Summerslam in the process. Bret Hart's surprise return was pretty big too after a strong show-closing segment where the audience was hanging on everything Cena was doing or saying. I'm not sure about some of the picks for Cena's group e.g. R-Truth and Khali, but WWE can focus on Cena, Jericho, and Edge as the top players going into the match. Well done from WWE tonight.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 25 2010, 06:53 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_42662.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS & MVP (w/Percy Watson) vs. DUDEBUSTERS (TRENT BARETTA & CAYLEN CROFT)

MVP and Trent started things off as Striker plugged the NXT voting currently ongoing on WWE's website. Masters then tagged in and worked on Trent, including a high back-body drop for a one count. Masters followed with a round of chops to the chest that drew "Oh yeahs" from Watson ringside. Croft then blind-tagged into the match between Masters's back and cut him off at the knee to begin a focused attack on the lower body. The Dudes continued to work over Masters, who countered a spinning toehold into a small package for a two count on Trent.

Masters broke free from Trent and made his way to the corner to tag in MVP. Croft also tagged in and accepted the Ballin' elbow drop moments later. MVP made a cover, but Trent broke it up. The action broke down with Masters locking in the Masterlock on Trent to knock him to the outside. In the confusion, Croft tried a small package on MVP, but MVP escaped and flowed into the Play of the Day finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: MVP & Masters in 6:00. Fine tag match with the focus on MVP, but not long enough for the Dudes to stand out offensively. (*1/4)

2 -- JTG vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Grisham and Striker talked about JTG reviewing the tape of his loss last week to Chavo Guerrero and finding "what he did wrong." Nice kayfabe set-up for their re-match this week. JTG's strategy of tape review didn't work out too well, though, as Chavo won the match in a decisive three minutes with the top rope Frogsplash. Striker covered for JTG in the process, saying JTG was competitive despite the loss.

WINNER: Chavo in 3:00. Another victory for Chavo that seems to be part of WWE's strategy to attempt mini-storylines on Superstars that continue from week-to-week, with the recent example being the month-long Bellas vs. Jillian storyline. (*)

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. PRIMO COLON

Yoshi and Primo started with some basic chain wrestling and Primo hid between the ropes to get a rope break. Yoshi then knocked Primo to the outside and landed a drop kick through the ropes. Yoshi teased a follow-up plancha, but Primo cut him off and landed a boot on the apron. Back in the ring, Primo went to work on Yoshi with a methodical attack. Lawler said he's not sure if the "change in attitude" has paid dividends in the wins/loss column for Primo, but he senses it's helped Primo. Lawler talked up Yoshi, who made a comeback with his high-flying moveset. They battled to the corner and Yoshi attempted a huracanrana, but Primo ducked underneath. Primo then hit a backstabber off the second rope and made cover for the win.

WINNER: Primo in 5:00. Another fine match, but too short to stand out on the show. Good win for Primo if it matters at the end of the day with WWE's lack of emphasis on wins and losses. (*1/4)

4 -- Unified tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. USO BROTHERS (JIMMY & JEY USO w/Tamina) -- non-title match

Smith and Jey started things off, with Smith quickly grounding Jey with a headlock. Lawler expanded on his thoughts from the PPV that Smith has all the tools, but he needs a mean streak to be a dominant force. Smith continued to work on Jey with an armbar and Jey reached the ropes with a break. Jey recovered to his feet and landed right hands to the face until running into a high knee from Smith. Kidd tagged in to a strong reaction and they set up a double-team dropkick with Jey hanging upside down in the corner.

Kidd slapped on an armbar and tagged in Smith again after continuing to set a methodical pace. Jey eventually made his way to the Uso corner to bring in Jimmy. The Usos tried to out-quick Smith, who eventually dumped both of them to the outside. The Usos retreated on the outside while the Harts stood tall in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, the Usos had control of the match working over Kidd. Kidd then came back with a back kick to the mid-section before hitting a double-foot dropkick that knocked Jimmy to the outside. Kidd tried a running dive off the ring apron onto the Usos, but Kidd fell into their arms, then was tossed into the guardrail. Kidd got some serious air on the way down, looking like he was in a movie on a suspension cord. Kidd made it back into the ring at a nine count, then Jimmy went back on the attack.

The Usos began a methodical beat down on Kidd at 10:00 while Natalya tried to rally the crowd. Jimmy and Jey executed a signature double-team move and gloated before making a cover that Smith broke up. The announcers got over the "resilient" label for Kidd as he continued to kick out of pin attempts. Kidd and Jimmy had a double knock-down center ring, which led to Jey tagging in, then Smith coming in with the hot tag.

Smith executed power offense as Lawler noted more aggression from Smith. Smith then tried a Sharpshooter, but Tamina hopped on the ring apron for a distraction. Natalya then came up behind Tamina and popped her with a clothesline on the floor. Back in the ring, the Harts hit a double Hart Attack on the Usos and Smith made the cover on Jey for the pin and the win. Post-match: Natalya hugged it out with the Harts as the Usos retreated on the outside. Nice crowd reaction for the win with the match peaking right at the finish. After a replay of the high points in the match, they showed the Harts celebrating in the ring and the Usos retreating up the stage to close the show.

WINNERS: Hart Dynasty in 14:00. Very good TV tag match. Hart Dynasty look good for a long-term run with the tag titles until WWE finds a solid heel tag team (could be the Usos) to take the belts off them to set up the Harts on the chase. Good conclusion to the show. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 25 2010, 06:59 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42685.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MATT HARDY & CHRISTIAN vs. DREW MCINTYRE & CODY RHODES

Grisham said he didn't think Kane's actions at the PPV were fair because of the size difference was fair. "Why would Kane need to take advantage of Rey Mysterio?" Striker said because the most prized title was at stake and added a third grade "duh!" at the end. Striker said Hardy's "lower extremities" are totally covered in tape and he's totally beaten up from the MITB match. Grisham asked if it's [cliche alert!] "back to the drawing board" for these four Superstars. Hardy blocked a Future Shock attempt by Drew and backdropped Drew over the top rope. Nice spot. Hardy also backdropped a charging Cody. Christian then leaped over the ropes onto both heels. They cut to a break.

Striker talked again about Cody not wearing kneepads. Striker said it's a throwback look. Grisham said, "So if he played football, he wouldn't wear a helmet?" Striker said no, but he does think it makes Cody look weird. Hardy, who wore a tank top shirt, took it off, revealing taped ribs. Christian took a beating for several minutes, but hot-tagged Hardy at 12:00. Hardy conveyed he was sore all over, especially favoring his arms. Cody distracted the ref as Hardy overed Drew. Hardy took a swing at Cody, but Cody dropped off the apron. When Cody broke up another pin attempt, Christian entered. Hardy mistakenly hit Christian. Striker said it might have been intentional. As Hardy checked on Christian, Drew surprised him with the Future Shock for the win. Striker said Hardy may be frustrated with not winning the MITB match.

WINNERS: McIntyre & Rhodes in 12:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4

2 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON (w/Michael McGuillicutty)

At 3:00 McGuillicutty checked on Kofi at ringside after he was tossed to the floor. Vickie walked over and chewed him out and ordered him to the back. McGuillicutty said he wasn't doing anything wrong. They cut to a break.

Ziggler had Kofi in a chinlock after the break. He dominated for several minutes with mostly matwork. At 11:00 Kofi began a comeback. He hit Ziggler with a flying clothesline, which Grisham called a Superman punch. He followed with his Boom Drop double legdrop and then signaled for his Trouble in Paradise. Ziggler stood, but the ducked the kick. He threw Kofi over the top rope. Kofi skinned the cat back into the ring. Striker must've had to bite his tongue not to mention Ricky Steamboat when Kofi did that, but until Steamboat's out of the hospital, WWE's probably not going to talk at all about him. Grabbed Kofi's boot. Ziggler then gave Kofi his Zig Zag followed by his sleeper for the win. Grisham said Kofi "bent over backwards literally" to try to break the hold. Grisham uses cliches, such as "bend over backwards," so much that when he breaks from that and actually speaks in clearly language without a cliche, he has to use "literally" to clarify he's not using yet another cliche figure of speech to convey his point.

WINNER: Ziggler in 13:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- A little slow in the body of the match.

3 -- THE BIG SHOW vs. MASKED MAN (w/C.M. Punk, Serena, Masked Man)

Before the match, Punk and Gallows conferenced and decided to have their mystery masked man wrestle instead. The ref allowed it. Grisham, unfazed by Punk switching out opponents for Show at the last second, said Punk looks like a Martian with his shaved head. He said he can't stop staring at him. Big Show and Gallows are also bald. Not sure why Grisham finds Punk's bald head so enthralling. I know, he's trying to sell that Punk is humiliated by being bald, but since he didn't put his mask back on after Show de-masked him last week, apparently he's not that ashamed. Show yanked off his mask a minute into the match. Striker said that's Joey Mercury. I wouldn't have recognized him as he was shaved bald. Show put on Mercury's mask and then KO'd him with his right hand.

WINNER: The Big Show in 2:00.

4 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Best of Three Falls No. 1 Contender Match

Rey limped to the ring. Swagger outpowered Swagger early, but then ducked a charging Swagger. Swagger tumbled to the floor. Rey slidekicked Swagger. They cut to an early break in a best of three falls match. Can't they just insert breaks between falls? Swagger was back in control after the break. At 10:00 Rey made a comeback. Swagger kicked out of a near fall by Rey after a springboard bodyblock off the middle rope. Rey kicked Swagger in the head. The crowd chanted "619." Swagger countered a body scissor into an anklelock. Rey reached for the bottom rope, but Swagger yanked him back to center ring. Rey eventually hugged the bottom rope. Swagger didn't break it. The ref DQ'd Swagger after his count reached five.

WINNER FALL ONE: Rey via DQ in 12:00.

Back from the break Rey crawled back into the ring for the second fall. Striker said Swagger knew exactly what he was doing when he got DQ'd. Rey avoided a charging Swagger and Swagger went shoulder-first into the ringpost. Rey then hit a top rope headscissors and then went for the 619. Swagger caught Rey, though, and applied the anklelock. Rey immediately tapped out.

WINNER FALL TWO: Swagger via tapout in 1:00.

As soon as the third fall began, Swagger kicked his ankle repeatedly. Swagger rolled Rey to the floor and slammed him on the ground. Striker said Swagger might be trying to win by countout. Swagger instead threw Rey back into the ring. Grisham said that wasn't smart. Striker said Swagger wants to erase any doubt. Swagger hit his swing splash in teh corner twice and made the cover, which was good for a two count. Swagger went for a third corner splash, but Rey caught him in the chin with extended boots. Rey climbed to the top rope and dove onto Swagger, but he favored his knees after the seated senton. Rey escaped a subsequet gut-wrench powerbomb attempt by Swagger, then leveraged Swagger's shoulders to the mat for the big upset win. Swagger sat in the corner, gasping in disbelief. Grisham said Rey was [cliche alert] "headed to the promised land." Grisham tried to sound like he was emotionally invested this week.

WINNER: Rey via pinfall in 2:00.

STAR RATING: *** -- Well told story.

-Swagger attaked Rey afterward. Grisham told Swagger to get over losing. Kane ran out and made the save, attacking Swagger with a chokeslam. Kane then helped Rey to his feet. Rey looked at him nervously. Kane snarled. Rey raised a fist while hobbling on one leg. Kane raised Rey's arm and the fans cheered. Rey's music played. As he began to leave the ring, Kane chased after him and threw him into the ring. He set up another chokeslam, but Rey escaped and head scissored Kane into 619 position and then nailed it. He bailed out of the ring and backed up the ramp as Kane regrouped in the ring, fuming mad.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 28 2010, 01:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-26-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42720.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JEY USO (w/Jimmy Uso and Tamina)

Cole noted the anonymous Raw GM booked the match to give Orton some warm-up work before Summerslam. Orton quickly dominated and continued to stare down Sheamus in-between moves on Jey. Orton glared down Sheamus too long after a forearm to the chest, allowing Jey to take control. The crowd rallied behind Orton, who made a trademark comeback and executed a spike DDT on Jey while staring down Sheamus. Orton then went down to the ground to tease the RKO and deliver it center ring. Orton with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 2:36. Effective squash to get over Orton as a threat for the WWE Title and on a "hot streak" going into Summerslam. (*)

2 -- EDGE vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Ranjin Singh)

Kayfabe, it doesn't speak well of Cena and Jericho as leaders of the group if they're "allowing" this to occur, unless they're taking the approach of letting it play out, then deciding after-the-fact. Edge tried to run around Khali early on and Khali answered with a hard chop to the chest. After a minute of action, Nexus walked out to the ring from backstage and circled the ring. Singh and Edge bailed here. Khali was left along in the ring as Nexus hopped on the ring apron. They entered the ring together to circle around him as he simply stood there with his arms out. The crowd chanted for Khali before Nexus slowly separated to leave an opening in their circle for Khali to exit. Khali took the pass and left the ring. Cole said he doesn't recall Nexus giving anyone a pass before. Khali and Nexus had a stare down to close the segment.

WINNER: No Decision. This was just thrown out there, much like a lot of content on the show since the opening segment. Raw has been a bit messy with some attempts to build intrigue for Summerslam, but with a need to simplify things and not get over-complicated. (n/a)

3 -- TEAM RAW vs. TEAM NEXUS -- Elimination match

The match started with Yoshi Tatsu and Michael Tarver here. Tarver landed an innovative powerslam and eliminated Yoshi at the 0:52 mark. Not a good night for Yoshi as he continues to have "Primo status" on WWE TV. Evan Bourne got in some work, then Jerry Lawler tagged in to a strong reaction. Lawler busted out a dropkick on Justin Gabriel before hitting a "vintage" fist drop from the second rope for a close two count. Barrett then pulled Gabriel out of the ring and Nexus regrouped on the outside. Lawler stood tall in the ring as Cole fed to break.

Back from break, they recapped Lawler being eliminated via Heath Slater. So, it's a seven on five situation. Tyson Kidd was working on Slater back live and Hart Dynasty proceeded to tag in and out working on Slater. Smith executed a nice standing vertical suplex to a good reaction and made a cover, but Slater kicked out. Smith then attempted a running powerslam, but Slater escaped. Slater then dropped Smith with a modified Zig-Zag for the pin on Smith at 7:00. Goldust then entered to a big homestate pop. Goldust measured Slater as they hit the top of the hour.

David Otunga tagged in when Slater took control. Otunga then hit his Dominator finishing move for an elimination at 8:15. Mark Henry entered next and cleaned house on Nexus. Skip Sheffield then entered and wanted a piece of Henry. Skip talked big, then landed clubbing forearms to Henry's back. Skip attempted a trademark clothesline, but Henry blocked with a scoop slam. Henry then launched Gabriel into the ring and landed a big corner splash. Henry didn't see Skip, though, and Skip landed a big clothesline when Henry turned around. Skip with the pin on Henry at 10:15.

Evan Bourne and Tyson Kidd looked at each other as the two remaining members of Team Raw. Kidd attempted a springboard move, but Skip blocked with a clothesline. Skip then tagged in Darren Young, who hit his finisher on Kidd for an elimination at 11:00. So, it was Evan Bourne by himself. Bourne tried to fight off everyone, but the Nexus leader, Wade Barrett, grabbed Bourne and delivered his overhead slam finisher for the final pin. Cole called it a "dominant, clean sweep." Nexus stood over Bourne's fallen body to celebrate the victory before Barrett started directing traffic.

WINNERS: Nexus at 11:43. Two positives: they didn't expose any of Nexus's weaknesses in the ring and painted a picture that Nexus is a dominant force heading to Summerslam. Two negatives: the eliminations were too quick in an unrealistic fashion and the Raw second-stringers were presented as a group that can't beat a freshman basketball team. Since the goal was to sell the top match at Summerslam, the positives outweighed the negatives. (*)

4 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX (w/Jillian Hall) vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) -- non-title match

The feud has apparently "graduated" to Raw after a run on Superstars. Alicia made short work of Nikki, finishing her off in a minute. Afterwards, Jillian took the mic and basked in Alicia's spotlight after the Bellas were finally thwarted. Alicia didn't appreciate Jillian taking her spotlight, so she dropped her with an Axe Kick and proudly walked out of the ring.

WINNER: Alicia at 1:03. (n/a)

5 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse)

Maryse tried to trip Morrsison from the outside in the opening seconds of the match, which gave DiBiase an opening to work on Morrison. Truth said they need to start thinking positively for Morrison and for Team Cena. Morrison fired off right hand blows to start a comeback before hitting an enziguiri kick. Morrison then went to the corner for Starship Pain, but Maryse got on the apron to run a distraction. Truth and Morrison sent Maryse running away, then DiBiase created an opportunity to bump Morrison and Truth into each other to feed the "dissension" storyline. DiBiase then rolled up Morrison for the pin and the win.

WINNER: DiBiase at 2:15. Another short singles match, but with an eye on Team Cena vs. Team Nexus at Summerslam. (*)

6 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS & U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. JOHN CENA & CHRIS JERICHO

Cole said Cena deserves the "manager of the year" award if he can get his team on the same page before Summerslam. Cole said he doesn't understand why the team members can't put their egos aside for the "good of the team." It sounds like Vince McMahon is feeding those lines. The bell sounded and neither team could decide who should start. Cena eventually cleared Miz to the floor and Miz regroupd while Sheamus stared down at him. Back in the ring, Cena and Miz squared off, then Miz slapped Sheamus on the chest to tag him in. Sheamus reluctantly entered the ring and locked up with Cena. Jericho then tagged in for Cena and battled with Sheamus.

Cole and Lawler continued to reinforce Team Cena having a "weak link" to make it seem like the odds are even compared to the less-experienced Nexus unit. Jericho dumped Sheamus over the top rope and Miz shouted at Sheamus that he's losing the match for them. Sheamus shouted back to get out of his face. Meanwhile, Cena and Jericho appeared to be on the same page talking strategy in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Cena and Miz were battling in the ring. Cena then drove Miz to his corner and Jericho tagged in to work on Miz. Jericho smiled and lifted his arm in the air, as if to say he could get a cheer any time he wants from the audience. Jericho then teased the Walls of Jericho, but dropped the hold when Sheamus tried to charge him off the ropes. Jericho tried to fire up the crowd, then Miz blindsided him with a clothesline.

Cole and Lawler talked about the Raw GM tonight, including the DX reference earlier. Lawler referenced them being in San Antonio and tried to get Cole to answer the question on which DX member is from San Antonio, but Cole didn't finish the conversation with a "Shawn Michaels" correct response and went back to calling the action. Nice job playing up the red herrings involved with the anonymous Raw GM. Miz and Sheamus continued to work over Jericho as the announcers wondered if Cena will start considering replacements for his current team. Just before the top of the hour, Sheamus cut off an attempted hot tag by Jericho. Sheamus then put Jericho in a Camel Clutch as they hit the top of the hour.

Cena tried to fire up the crowd as Jericho fought back to his feet. Jericho escaped with elbows, but Sheamus dragged him back to the heel corner to tag in Miz, who went back to work on Jericho. In the discussion on egos with Team Cena, Lawler said Cole has an ego so big that...Cole cut him off and said he thought Lawler was talking about JR. Anyways, Cena eventually got the hot tag at 12:30 and cleaned house on Sheamus, who also tagged in. Cena set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle and connected. He wanted the Attitude Adjustment, but Jericho snuck in the back door on Cena and dropped him with the codebreaker. So much for working babyface tonight. Miz then tagged in for Sheamus and quickly made the cover on Cena for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Miz & Sheamus at 13:18. Unremarkable tag match, but interesting with Jericho working babyface for 13 minutes of the match. It was an interesting look inside the window of a potential babyface run for Jericho down the road ala Randy Orton being turned face by the fans. Miz and Sheamus definitely benefited from being in the ring with Cena and Jericho to continue subtly reinforcing them as main event-level stars. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 30 2010, 12:33 am
WWE NXT Results: 7-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42743.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and final segment.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. PERCY WATSON (w/MVP)

Back from break, Zack Ryder was in the ring to face Percy Watson. MVP was on the ring apron to get a closer look at the action (complete with wearing Watson's glasses), which drew complaints from Ryder. Cole's audio is still screwed up, like he's broadcasting on the radio. Ryder dominated Watson early on, then made a comeback with a clothesline off the ropes. Ryder tried to come back with a Rough Ryder drop, but Watson blocked and hit his leaping mid-air turnaround splash. Watson with the pin for the win. Ryder's getting buried on WWE TV lately. Josh Mathews covered for Ryder, saying he has walking pneumonia. Watson celebrated with MVP post-match, while Ryder walked up the entrance ramp complaining about things.

WINNER: Watson in 3:00. Basic TV match with no real consequences attached to it despite Watson being the first Rookie to beat a Pro on Season 2, according to the announcers. (*)

2 -- MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY (JOE HENNIG) (w/IC champion Kofi Kingston) vs. ELI COTTONWOOD (w/John Morrison)

Cottonwood quickly went to work on Hennig, who is undefeated on NXT thus far. Cole sounded like Vince McMahon calling Cottonwood a "unique presence" in the ring. Cottonwood continued to dominate as Cole tried to score brownie points in my book calling Miz the "Mack Brown of NXT" since they're in Texas. Hennig tried to make a comeback at 3:00, but Eli cut him off with an atomic drop. Eli looked like Great Khali getting his knee caught on the top rope attempting a big boot. Cole and Mathews bantered back and forth about Cole's Slammy award win in the same building at the end of 2009. Meanwhile, Hennig dropped Eli with a swinging neckbreaker as Kofi cheered him on from the ring apron. Hennig with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Hennig in 5:00. Eli isn't very polished in the ring and they're exposing him to the audience when it would be best to not show much of him to the audience. The con is he's a threat to the babyfaces because of his size, but they're showing he's not much of a threat in the ring, making him far less marketable for future storylines. They can always repackage him or rebuild him down the road on Raw or Smackdown, but he has no value as a threat in his current form. (*)

3 -- KAVAL (w/Co-Women's champions Lay-Cool) vs. HUSKY HARRIS (w/Cody Rhodes)

It's a match-up of #1 Kaval vs. #7 Husky Harris from the last NXT poll. Harris tried to use his size early on, but Kaval out-quicked him and landed kick strikes. Mathews said Harris has that "Dez Bryant mentality" of not here to play games like a typical Rookie. Nice analogy. Harris cut off Kaval with a snap slam and went to work on Kaval's lower back. Cole proceeded to criticize Kaval and reporting, in general. Harris then caught Kaval in the ropes and Lay-Cool were bumped off the apron in the process. Kaval checked on Lay-Cool, which gave Harris an opening to land a suplex and running sentaun for the pin the win. Meanwhile, Cole criticized Kaval for showing compassion, adding that it's not about showing compassion in WWE. There have been plenty of messages on TV the last two nights after the McMahon bio in the Connecticut Post on Monday.

WINNER: Harris in 3:00. A means to continue getting over Harris while giving Cole an opening to criticized Kaval, the so-called "Internet favorite" of this season. (*)

Ringside: The NXT Rookies were shown assembled ringside as Sign Guy shouted at them in the background. Striker stretched out the drama before announcing the new NXT Poll. Striker reminded the audience that Hennig is safe after earning immunity last week.

#1 is now Michael McGillicutty (Hennig). #2 is Kaval, who dropped from #1. The crowd and Lay-Cool cheered while Cole was beside himself. Alex Riley was #3, up from the last poll. Percy Watson was #4. Lucky Cannon was still in the game at #5. It's down to Husky Harris and Eli. Striker asked them to step up and face the music. Eli stared down at the floor as they cued up the drumroll. #6 is Husky Harris, escaping elimination again. #7 is Eli Cottonwood and he's gone.

Striker asked Eli to talk to the audience. Eli stared down at the ground, then walked over to Harris and kicked him in the gut. Eli then beat up the other Rookies until Riley hopped on his back to try to control him. Eli threw down Lucky, then simply stormed off. John Morrison tried to calm him down, but Eli shoved him in the chest. Eli stormed off, leaving the Rookies talking trash from ringside.

Back ringside, Striker asked Harris why he continues to be at the bottom of the rankings. Harris said he's been on a warpath and he doesn't know what else he needs to do to show he's stepped up his game. Hennig was next to talk about being perfect thus far and he vowed to become a World champion. Striker asked Riley about Eli trying to attack him. Riley said he's a much better athlete than Eli and he's not really worried about being #3 right now. He vowed to jump the top two spots.

Hennig and Riley then had a confrontation and Hennig blasted Riley. Hennig completely dominated the ringside fight until Cannon pulled Hennig off Riley. Eli suddenly stormed back to ringside and attacked Cannon, then Husky. Eli kneed Cannon in the gut before throwing him into the guardrail and they ended the show with chaos ringside. Why does WWE typically wait until the over-run to actually deliver some interesting TV on this show?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 30 2010, 12:48 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 7-26-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10013185.shtml)

1. The Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli) defeated Josh Emmanuel and Ice Jackson in 2:43. Emmanuel and Jackson didn't get any entrance music. The Kings ran through some of their spots and posed a bit. Jackson got a rollup for two at the two minute mark, but the Kings quickly finished the match with the giant swing/basement dropkick combination.

2. The Kings of Wrestling defeated Adam Cole and Nick Westgate in 1:54. No entrance music for Cole and Westgate either. Cole got some offense in the first thirty seconds and then a bit more before tagging in Westgate, who ate a KRS-1 in relatively short order for the pin.

3. The Ninjas (Jay and Mark Briscoe) defeated the Kings of Wrestling in 1:55. As the Ninjas got in the ring, the KOW turned and talked to Hagadorn for whatever reason. The Ninjas then unmasked and revealed themselves to be the Briscoes. The Briscoes beat up the KOW for a bit, with a double biel on Hero onto Claudio, and won the match with a Doomsday Device.

Joe's Judgment: I have had more than enough of the KOW-Briscoes feud. This was going fine until the Briscoes practically squashed the champs. That was unnecessary.

4. The Dark City Fight Club (Jon Davis and Kory Chavis) defeated the American Wolves (Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards) by DQ in 8:28. The DCFC dominated for a bit, but the Wolves lowbridged them, hit stereo kicks, and then stereo dives. Edwards hit a dragon screw in the ropes and Richards hit a low dropkick and locked in a cloverleaf. Edwards went up top and hit a doublestomp on Chavis while he was locked in the hold.

Davis shoved Edwards into Richards to break the hold. The DCFC got a nearfall with a spinebuster and maintained offense for several minutes. Richards made a hot tag to Edwards, who reversed everything the DCFC tried and got two with a rollup after an enzuigiri. The Wolves got two after stereo kicks, but Davis broke up the pin and then clotheslined both Wolves.

Davis got two on Edwards after a double-team neckbreaker and put him up in a torture rack when suddenly the Embassy ran in to cause the DQ. They beat on the DCFC for a bit, but Rasche Brown ran down to make the save and there was a locker room-clearing brawl. Brown hit Necro and Erick Stevens with a chair several times and Prince Nana took out Bobby Dempsey before the Embassy retreated.

Joe's Judgment: The Wolves were great, but the DCFC didn't sell and their offense was slow and clunky. The DQ finish came out of nowhere and the brawl was kinda weak. The thing I don't like about the Necro turn is that there hasn't been any adjustment period. He feuded with them for over a year, and then suddenly he joins and suddenly he's super-enthusiastic about doing whatever it is the Embassy does? Doesn't seem altogether realistic to me.

5. Roderick Strong defeated Christopher Daniels in 14:10. Daniels got a headlock about two minutes in and Hogewood got excited and wondered if Strong would submit. Um, I doubt it. Daniels hit a quebrada into a crossface, but Strong grabbed the ropes.

Strong hit a couple kicks and a backbreaker and continued to work on the back. He hit a couple chops and Daniels got a rollup and missed an O'Connor Roll. Daniels went for a suplex, but couldn't get Strong up. Strong hit another backbreaker as the crowd chanted "You suck" at him.

Daniels got another nearfall after an STO. At 10:30, Daniels hit a fulcrum kick on the apron and then an Arabian press to the floor. Truth started reading to him out of the Book of Truth, and Daniels followed him angrily. Strong came up behind and hit a torture rack backbreaker onto the apron. He brought Daniels back in the ring and hit another backbreaker for a great nearfall.

Strong went for the Stronghold, but Daniels kicked him off and then locked in the Koji Clutch. Strong looked like he was going to tap, but instead grabbed the rope, which was about two feet away form him the whole time. They traded forearms in the ring and Daniels countered one into a DVD for two.

Daniels went for a suplex, but Strong elbowed his way out. Strong went for a gutbuster but Daniels got out the same way. Daniels went for a German, but Strong ran him towards the ropes where Truth hit him with the Book of Truth, which exploded. Strong followed up with the sick kick for the win. Hogewood and Prazak argued about Truth as the show ended.

Joe's Judgment: The match was pretty good even though Daniels' selling deteriorated as it went on. Strong's heel turn is interesting even though he essentially does all the same stuff he did as a face and Truth is just kinda there and interferes occasionally.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 04 2010, 01:04 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_42782.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA & KOZLOV vs. WILLIAM REGAL & PRIMO COLON

They went for comedy early on with Santino squaring off with Regal. Santino proceeded to strut across the ring (rather than bounce off the ropes) several times doing a chicken walk while Regal looked on perplexed with these events. It looked like a comedy spot you would see on the independents, with Santino managing to pull it off. Lawler said it seems to be effective if it distracts an opponent. Cole, meanwhile, referenced Kozlov and Regal working together on the "now-defunct ECW" earlier this year. The first of many ECW references tonight on pro wrestling TV, for sure. Santino hot-tagged in for Kozlov and did the Santino Hulk Up that Regal sold for. Santino then dropped Regal with the Cobra and Regal rolled to the outside. The heels regrouped on the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Santino was on the offensive against Primo. Santino then went for his Sailor Salute fist drop, but Primo blocked with knees to the gut. Regal then tagged in and began trading tags with Primo to work on Santino. Kozlov eventually took a tag at 10:00 and landed power offense on Primo, who also tagged in. Regal broke up a pin, then Santino scared Regal away by flashing the Cobra. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Primo attempted a top rope move on Kozlov, who easily countered with the Iron Curtain for the pin and the win. Regal simply shook his head ringside while glaring into the ring where Santino and Kozlov celebrated.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov in 12:00. Regal's role is well defined at this point: sell for Santino, as silly and unrealistic as it can be at times. (*1/2)

2 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CAYLEN CROFT (w/Trent Baretta)

Striker had an interesting opening line that Masters is "respected in the Smackdown locker room" and the veterans want him to take out the cocky rookies, The Dudebusters. Grisham tried to insert a Dez Bryant current-events NFL reference, but he called him Dez White, a former NFL receiver. He followed by calling Masters's opponent "Trent Croft." Striker noted the name-drop botches as Masters dominated early on. Croft then took out Masters at the legs before Masters made the Batista babyface comeback with power offense while selling a lower body injury.

Masters hit a nice turnaround powerslam, then teased a gorilla press, but dropped the hold to sell the leg work. Masters then tried a clothesline to the floor that completely missed Croft, but Croft flipped to the outside to sell the move. On the floor, Masters slapped on the Masterlock on Trent to eliminate him from the picture. That worked, but back in the ring, Croft caught Masters slowly re-entering the ring and dropped him with a DDT. Croft made the pin on Masters for the win. Trent Croft then celebrated the victory as Masters sold his leg and vowed to get them.

WINNER: Croft in 4:00. Fine story to the match just trying to give Trent Croft quality TV exposure and continue exposing them to the audience. (*)

3 -- MVP (w/Percy Watson) vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

MVP and Chavo cut a methodical pace to start things off. Meanwhile, Grisham talked about MVP hanging out with the Miami Heat trio of LeBron Wade, Chris James, and Dwayne Bosh. Okay, he didn't pull a "Dez White" and "Trent Croft" botching their names, but he very slowly pronounced LeBron James, Chris Bosh, and Dwayne Wade to make sure he got their names right. MVP cut off Chavo's offense to frustrate him, then Chavo bailed to the outside to regroup. MVP taunted Chavo from the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, Chavo was in control of the match. Striker said Chavo Classic was in the building sharing some "devious notes" with Chavo before the match. The crowd started an "MVP" chant as MVP broke free of a nerve hold. It's worth noting how pale Chavo's legs look compared to the rest of his body. He wasn't ready to drop the long pants. Chavo then cut off MVP again and went back to work, scoring nearfalls. Percy rallied the crowd as MVP pulled himself together and hit an exploder suplex. He followed with some slow-motion right hand blows during an exchange with Chavo that looked pretty clunky.

MVP hit the Ballin' Elbow drop and tried to end the match, but Chavo shoved him off into the corner turnbuckle. Chavo then did the Eddie Shake and followed with two out of Three Amigos. MVP countered #3 with a belly-to-back German Suplex for a nearfall. Striker then had a weird line about the audience needing to learn how to "take the WWE Universe on a ride" with the back-and-forth. It was a "break from suspension of disbelief" type of line that wasn't necessary. Chavo then went for a top rope splash, but MVP blocked with a boot to the face. MVP and Chavo traded pin attempts, then Chavo stumbled into the Play of the Day from MVP for the pin and the win.

WINNER: MVP in 13:00. The match had all the makings of a strong TV main event, but the commentary was terrible in spots and there were some really clunky spots throughout the match where it looked like they were pretending to have a fight and weren't on the same page trying to choreograph the moves. Good nearfalls and a strong back-and-forth helped overcome some of the negatives. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 04 2010, 01:05 am
TNA impact! Results: 7-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42785.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ANGELINA LOVE vs. SARITA -- No. 1 Contender Match for Knockouts Title

Tenay announced that Dreamer asked for his match against Abyss to be a weapons hardcore anything goes match. Taz acted shocked and said that's in his comfort zone. Tenay wondered if he thought that through. He said that opens the door for Abyss to use "Janice" legally. Taz said that wouldn't be good and he didn't think of that. The ref caught Sarita pulling on Love's tights when going for the pin at 2:00. She went for a back suplex, but Love flipped out of it and made a comeback. She speared Sarita and then gave her the "Botox Injection" kick to the chest for the win.

WINNER: Love in 3:00 to become no. 1 contender to Knockouts Title.

2 -- INK INC. (Jesse Neal & Shannon Moore) vs. ORLANDO JORDAN & ERIC YOUNG

Jordan came out first, but Young wasn't with him. Jordan offered Young a piece of gum that had been in his mouth. So Cal Val, overacting as usual, acted disgusted and then accepted it briefly and then spit it out. Taz said he threw up in his mouth. Why did So Cal Val accept it in her mouth even a little? What was she doing at ringside? Who is she at this point in TNA? Young then came out with a mannequin. Taz said Young has been acting odd lately on TNA Xplosion. Young held the mannequin on the ring apron as if it were another tag partner. The mannequin was wearing a pink boa and some sort of ruffled red underwear. Young threw it into the ring when Jordan tagged him. They argued. Ink Inc. attacked Jordan from behind. Ink Inc. then hit their Moregasm finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ink Inc. in 3:00. What do you say to something like that?

3 -- THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. BEER MONEY -- Third of Best of Seven Match Series for TNA Tag Team Titles (Beer Money leads 2-0)

The Guns climbed the cage to enter and snuck up behind Beer Money who were staring at the entrance set waiting for them to come out to their music. Roode's face was covered in blood in the opening minute. Beer Money took over offense quickly and isolated Shelley. At 4:00 Shelley made a comeback, ramming Roode's head into the cage on the top rope and then head scissoring him to the mat.

Sabin climbed to the top of the cage at 8:00 and hit both Roode and Storm with a crossbody block. The crowd chanted "TNA! TNA!" Taz said it was shades of "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka. Storm swung a beer bottle at Sabin, but Sabin moved and he hit Roode instead. Shelley then leaped off the top rope and splashed Storm for the win.

WINNERS: The Guns in 8:00 to make it 1-2 in the Best of Five series.

STAR RATING: **3/4 -- It felt rushed. Not bad, but not what it could have been if positioned as more of a showcase on the show and given more time.

4 -- KAZARIAN (w/A.J. Styles) vs. ROB TERRY

Styles distracted Terry at the start and spit at him. Kaz dropkicked Terry from behind. He threw some elbows, but Terry shoved him down, brushed off a follow up dropkick and then slammed him with his Freakbuster for the win (although it took two tries to get Kaz up). Taz said Terry didn't just beat a "ham and egger."

WINNER: Terry in 1:00. Well, that does a lot for the credibility of the Fortune faction and Flair's ability to assemble an impressive cast of champion-level wrestlers.

5 -- MURPHY & GUNNER & MATT MORGAN vs. JEFF HARDY & MR. ANDERSON

Morgan opened against Hardy. Anderson insisted he start in place of Hardy. Morgan, then tagged out to Gunner. Gunner didn't like what he saw, so he tagged in Murphy. Tenay plugged that a big announcement from Eric Bischoff was up next. He said he was "reminding" us that was coming up; I must've missed the first mention of it earlier. At 3:00 Morgan walked away from the ring. Hardy won shortly thereafter with a Swanton.

WINNERS: Hardy & Anderson in 3:00.

6 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. ABYSS

Dreamer hit Abyss with a trash can lid. Abyss dropped Dreamer crotch-first over the ringside barrier. Tenay hyped that next week they hoped for more details on so many developments on this show. In the ring Abyss side slammed Dreamer through two trash cans. Next came a shot with a cookie sheet. Abyss bashed Dreamer with a cane. Tenay plugged match four in the Guns-Beer Money series. At 3:00 he threw Dreamer's head into a chair wedged in the corner. Dreamer made a comeback by knocking Abyss off balance in the corner. He made his signature Tommy Dreamer comeback, brushing off several minutes of a brutal beating to be instantly 100 percent. He hung Abyss upside down in the corner and bashed him between the legs with a kendo stick. He then slidekicked a trash can into Abyss's head as he continued to hang upside down. Before charging at Abyss he yelled "E-V-2!" The crowd chanted "E-C-W." Dreamer pulled a barbed wire covered tabletop-sized board out from under the ring. He bashed Abyss with another cane shot, then set up the barbed wire in the ring. Taz said this match is in Dreamer's comfort zone. Abyss, though, recovered and kicked Dreamer in the legs. He set up a Black Hole Slam, but Dreamer escaped. Abyss came right back with a clothesline. Abyss chokeslammed Dreamer on the barbed wire table and scored the clean pin. Tenay said it was "a courageous, valiant effort from the Innovator of Violence, Tommy Dreamer."

WINNER: Abyss in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *

-Afterward Abyss grabbed Janice. Raven, though, ran out. Tenay said he is Dreamer's former rival. Raven held off Janice with a chair, but then turned and attacked Dreamer. He DDT'd Dreamer onto a chair. Tenay said, "What the hell?" Raven licked Dreamer's face twice and trash-talked him as the show ended with him posing mid-ring. Finally, instead of everyone in ECW pretending they were always one happy family, we have Raven who was silently listening to Dreamer the last two weeks, set up an actual ECW vs. ECW match for Hardcore Justice.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 04 2010, 01:06 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42805.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. CHRISTIAN

Christian backdropped Drew over the top rope to the floor at 1:00. Christian went after Drew at ringside and dropkicked him into the side of the ring. He then rolled under the ring to consult with Hornswoggle (or not). When Christian checked on him, Drew surprised Christian and yanked him into the ring apron by his arm. Drew applied an armbar. They cut to a break.  Christian beat a countout as soon as they returned from the break, accentuating why it's a bad philosophy to cut away from matches with commercials. There's no need to do it, and it undercuts the value of a match to flippantly cut away mid-action for three minutes. A clip aired showing that during the break Drew dropped Christian shoulder-first over the steps. Drew went back to an armbar to work over Christian's shoulder.

At 8:00 Drew yanked Christian's arm over the edge of the ring apron. Grisham asked whether the referee is thinking of stepping in. Christian finally made a comeback at 10:00 and snapped Drew backward over the top rope. He climbed to the top rope and hit a cross bodyblock, but Drew rolled through for a believable near fall. Christian executed an inverted DDT, but he was slow to get up afterward and clutched his arm in pain. Drew drove Christian's shoulder into the mat and scored a near fall. Drew dove off the top rope at Christian, but Christian lifted a boot and caught Drew in the face. He followed with a sunset flip for a near fall. He caught Drew charging at him in the corner with two boots to the chest, then hit a flying uppercut off the second rope. He again was slow to get up, clutching his damaged arm. Drew threw Christian shoulder-first into the ringpost from inside the ring. Drew then set up a finisher, but Christian countered with a rollup for the win out of nowhere.

WINNER: Christian in 13:00.

STAR RATING: **3/4 -- Good match. It told a good story and stuck to it, had several believable near falls, and accomplished what it set out to. A big win for Christian to keep him from sinking definitively below McIntyre in the eyes of the fans.

2 -- THE BIG SHOW vs. LUKE GALLOWS

Striker said Gallows seemed motivated by Punk's verbal lashing. He said Punk looks like "an in-shape Jake 'The Milkman' Milliman." Jake was an AWA jobber in the late-'70s and early-'80s. Show chopped Gallow's chest, but insisted ring announcer Tony Chimmel (unlike referees, he still has a name) hold the mic nearby to capture the sound of impact. When the action spilled to the floor, the other S.E.S. members attacked Show, prompting the ref to call for the DQ.

WINNER: Show via DQ in 2:00.

-The S.E.S. threw Show into the ringside steps. Striker compared the attack to an animal attack on "The Wild Kingdom" TV show. They held his hand on the steps and stomped on it repeatedly, taking away his top weapon - his KO punch.

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Striker said Kofi prepares himself before matches for different scenarios that could come up and that's what separates him from the rest of the pack in WWE. Dolph took control and snapped Kofi's back backward over the middle rope as he dropped to the floor. He went for the pin, then settled into a chinlock mid-ring at 4:00. Kofi made a brief comeback, but Ziggler cut him off and inverted bodyslammed him. Vickie cheered at ringside as Ziggler applied a chinlock at 5:00. Grisham wondered if Ziggler is to Vickie as Tom Arnold was to Rosanne, a relationship of convenience to get ahead. Striker said it's more like Romeo and Juliet. [c] At 13:00 Ziggler choked Kofi against the bottom rope. As the ref reprimanded him, Vickie slapped Kofi. That woke Kofi up and he turned and tackled Ziggler. Striker said he had never seen this side of Kofi before. He dragged Kofi to the announcers' desk and beat him up there as Vickie looked on with concern. Striker said it was all Vickie's fault. Three referees held Kofi back as he tried to break free and get at Ziggler again.

WINNER: Ziggler via DQ in 16:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- It dragged a little at times, but it was solid most of the way. The finish was a good step in giving Kofi more of an edge.

4 -- LAYLA (w/Michelle McCool) vs. TIFFANY (w/Kelly Kelly) -- Women's Title Match

Vickie said Layla is not the sole official champion in the LayCool tandem, so with the powers invested in her as the official Smackdown Consultant, McCool will defend the title instead. McCool was happy. Tiffany said that was fine with her. Striker said Tiffany prepared for a lower center of gravity and is now in over her head. Tiffany attacked McCool as she did cocky push-ups at the start. She hit a superplex for a very near fall at 1:00. When Layla interfered, Kelly attacked her at ringside. The distraction led to McCool giving Tiffany the Faith Breaker for the win.

WINNER: McCool in 2:00 to retain her self-professed championship.

-Teddy Long appeared on the big screen during their post-match celebration. He said their fun is over. He said there is only Women's Championship and they need to make up their mind who is going to wear the title. He said if they don't decide, then next week he will. Well, how generous of him to let them choose.

5 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. JACK SWAGGER - No DQ match

Striker said Swagger demanded the match, but Rey accepted. He wondered if Rey knows something about Swagger that they don't. Swagger went on the early offensive, but Rey countered and knocked Swagger to the floor. When Rey went after Swagger at ringside, Swagger went for an early anklelock. Rey countered and send Swagger into the ringside steps. They cut to an early break at 2:00. Swagger took control and beat up Rey around ringside. Rey made a omeback and threw Swagger into the ringside barrier among fans. He then climbed the barrier and launched at Swagger with a huracanrana attempt. Swagger caught him and slammed him into the wall. Swagger dragged Rey to the back area of the arena. No corny fake concession stands this time.

At 10:00, he did throw Rey out of the arena, as he promised he would. Striker said it was becoming disturbing. A car drove by as Swagger beat up Rey outside the arena. Rey crawled across the street as another car drove by and slowed down. Some fans in the arena laughed as they watched on the big screen. Swagger carried Rey across the street. A car had to slam on its brakes and then honked at Swagger. Swagger yelled at the driver, then picked up Rey and carried him toward the water. Rey made a comeback and slipped out of Swagger's grip. He threw him over the street barrier and nearer the water onto cement on the edge. Rey then dove at Swagger with a seated senton. Rey kicked Swagger repeatedly as Swagger rolled closer and closer to the water. Swagger fought back and punched away at Rey on the ground. He then said: "You're no champion, Rey. I'm the champion. You're not even half the man I am." Rey sent Swagger head-first into the water a minute later with a head scissors. Swagger flailed in the water and yelled out, "Help me! I'm drowning! I can't breath! I can't swim!" Come to think of it, he never did brag about any swimming titles in high school or college. Kane then showed up out of nowhere and grabbed Rey by his throat and threw him into the water to close the show.

WINNER: No decision announced after 14:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 -- What aired was fine, but the lack of an official finish is always annoying, even under these outlandish outdoor fight scene circumstances. I hope someone threw Swagger a lifeline!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 06 2010, 12:37 am
WWE NXT Results: 8-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://messageboard.tokyopop.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15636) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - HUSKY HARRIS vs. KAVAL

The bell rang soon after the show came back from break. This is a re-match from last week. Some chain wrestling by Harris to start. He went to the outside, but caught Kaval in mid-air, stumbled a bit, then slammed him into the barricade. Harris sent Kaval back into the ring, and got a two-count. He had a modified chin-lock on Kaval, but Kaval got his feet up on a corner charge. Harris tried another, from a three-point stance, but ate turnbuckle. Harris catapulted Kaval into the corner, but he landed on the bottom rope and came out with a second rope Warrior's Way. Splash in the corner missed by Kaval, and Harris landed a uranage. Back splash by Harris won it for him.

WINNER: Harris, at 3:14. OK match. Harris has something, but he's got a ways to go. Kaval just looks smoother than any of the other rookies.

2 - MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY vs. LUCKY CANNON

Cannon grabbed an arm-bar to start and worked it over. McGillicutty tossed him out of the corner and dropkicked Cannon. McGillicutter out of nowhere (his spinning neck-breaker) gave him a quick win.

WINNER: McGillicutty, at 1:00. That can't speak well for Cannon's future.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. PERCY WATSON

They showed Watson's comments from WWE.com about Riley. He said Riley talks down to people and thinks he's better than everyone. Jumping back elbow by Watson found the mark and he got only a one-count on a pin attempt. He still had the glasses on to start the match and an enziguiri put Watson down. He's been impressive in the early going here. Riley caught Watson and with Watson bent through the middle rope, Riley DDT'd him from the apron. I don't know if his head was supposed to hit the apron, but if it didn't, that move wouldn't have much effect, I don't think. Watson worked out of a rest-hold back in the ring. Watson fought out and made a comeback, rolling up Riley out of the corner. He went for ten punches in the corner, but Riley walked out and gave him an atomic drop. He slammed Watson into the middle buckle, then finished it with his TKO-like move.

WINNER: Riley, at 3:30. Good for a three-and-a-half minute match. We may not learn much about these guys in matches of this length, but they're learning WWE TV style, so that's a plus.

4 - THE MIZ vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Rear waist-lock into a take-down by McGillicuty, as the two man wrestled (sports-entertained?) on the mat. Quick roll-up by McGillicutty for a near-fall, but Miz soon took over. He kicked McGillicutty to ringside where Riley did some trash talking. Miz went out to retrieve his opponent, but McGillicutty backed him into the apron. Miz responded with a kick to the skull. Miz threw McGillicutty in the ring, but he showed a lot of fire with right hand after right hand, to the point that he had to be restrained by the ref. Couple of clotheslines, then a belly-to-belly suplex. Dropkick by the Miz, then a running boot to the seated McGillicutty. Skull Crushing Finale finished things.

WINNER: The Miz, at 4:33. Good enough, but McGillicutty didn't have an opportunity to show a whole lot.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 08 2010, 02:35 am
TNA impact! Results: 8-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_42940.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results and final show segment.

1 -- TAYLOR WILDE & HAMADA vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (Velvet Sky & Lacey Von Erich)

Early action between Lacey and Hamada was pretty sloppy, as was a spot between Sky and Hamada against the ropes. It didn't get better during a double-team where Hamada just stood there and looked at the BPs as they tried to get their timing down to send her backwards into the corner. Really everything looked like they were dancing to music of a different beat. At 2:00 Madison Rayne stepped onto the stage as the Mystery Woman on the motorcycle rode to ringside. Taz said they've confirmed she's a woman. With the ref distracted, the mystery woman gave Lacey a chair. Wilde dropkicked the chair into Lacey and scored the pin. Taz said "history was made," but the way TNA books title changes, that's like saying someone posting on Facebook that they liked a movie they just saw is "history being made." Not a good match. It, of course, suffered from being so rushed.

WINNERS: Wilde & Hamada in 3:00 to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

2 -- A.J. STYLES (w/Kazarian) vs. ROB TERRY

Tenay talked about the history of the TV Title dating back to the NWA in the 1970s. The ref ordered Kaz to the back before the match. No reason given. This is TNA. They just do stuff to do stuff, no logic or backstory necessary, just like TNA allowing Styles to decide to change the name of the Global Title to the TV Title. Terry clotheslined both over the top rope. Tenay said last week the ref ordered Styles to the back before the Terry-Kaz match. "I like this idea," Tenay said. Terry chased Kaz to the back, then returned to battle Styles. Tenay said this qualifies as Terry's "Global Title rematch." Styles poked Terry in the eyes in frustration, then hit the Pele kick, then landed the 450 springboard splash off the top rope for the pin.

WINNER: Styles in 3:00. Does no one in TNA get that by having two title matches in the first half hour of the show, with each going about three minutes, it's totally defines down what constitutes a wrestling match between two top contenders, which is ultimately what they're reliant on to sell their product? Why does a match like this last three minutes on TV, but if it were on PPV it'd last ten? There's just nothing about it that has any logic. How can anyone take Terry seriously when he loses in three minutes to Styles? The low-IQ logic of this promotion's mindset is the eye poke "excuses" Terry's loss.

3 -- BEER MONEY (James Storm & Robert Roode) vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) -- Ultimate X Match and Fourth Match in Best of Five Series

They joined the match in progress after the break. Everything seemed to be in fast-forward, which is what they were going for. The pacing eventually slipped from Red Bull to Mountain Dew. Storm talked Roode into climbing up to the cables over the ring since he signaled he had been drinking. It was good for a laugh, but made a mockery of the idea that Beer Money are a team taking the Best of Five seriously. That's a lower card comedy spot, but wrong for this type of match. Roode bled from his forehead by 5:00. Tenay pushed next week's show, which is billed as "No Talk, All Action." Did I mention how jaw-dropping it is they're competing against themselves by promoting a free all-action PPV with a main event billed as the most hardcore match ever while also promoting Hardcore Justice? Okay, just checking. At 6:00 Roode got close to the "X" hanging above the ring, but Shelley pulled him down and then DDT'd him in center-ring. Sabin gave Storm a huracanrana off the top rope. Storm walked Roode toward the "X" by having him stand on his shoulders while he held the cable. The Guns broke that up at 9:00. The crowd chanted "This is awesome! This is awesome!" Tenay called this the best tag team series he's ever seen. Roode tight-rope walked the able with help from the truss. Sabin met him at the "X" and knocked Roode to the mat, who crotched himself on the way down. Sabin yanked the "X" down for the win. Taz challenged viewers to find something on TV as "exuberant and exciting as that." He said, "That was sick."

WINNERS: The Motor City Machine Guns in 10:00 to even the series 2-2.

STAR RATING: *** -- They packed so much into 10 minutes, it was both exciting and rushed, dazzling yet contrived (in the sense that there wasn't time to really sell anything, thus everything did seemed more like video game wrestling).

4 -- ORLANDO "LAFAYETTE" JORDAN vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Taz said his mind was still on the Hogan, Bischoff, Sting, Jarrett, Nash situation. You can see what Hogan meant when he said they've moved into the background to give The Pope the spotlight. When Jordan sucked his finger, Taz said, "This guy is having an affair with his index finger." When Tenay said Jordan's sexuality is part of his style. Taz said, "You don't want Orlando behind you, that much I know." Jordan rubbed up against The Pope when he had him backed into the corner. He yelled, "If you want to wrestle, then let's wrestle." Eric Young ran out and began shoving money on the rampway down his pants. Taz said he's gone loopy. Tenay said he had a head injury. Pope won clean with his double knee driver in the corner.

WINNER: The Pope in 3:00.

5 -- RIC FLAIR vs. JAY LETHAL -- Street Fight

Taz said Flair's pocket square costs more than Tenay's suit. Flair walked to the ring in his suit. Lethal wore jeans and white sleeveless t-shirt, known as a "wife beater" in some circles. Flair took early control with a low blow. Taz said he's never seen someone fight in a $7,000 suit before. Lethal ducked under the ring as Flair retrieved a trash can and a cane. Lethal came back out the other side and snuck up on Flair with a springboard dropkick. Lethal took off Flair's jacket and tore off his "silk undershirt." Lethal hit Flair with a kendo stick. Taz shifted to actually talking about the Hardcore Justice PPV, EV2, which has barely been mentioned all show other than some commercials. Flair bled from the forehead. Douglas Williams showed up at ringside as Lethal continued to beat on Flair. Flair did a face-first bump. Lethal tore apart his pants, stripping Flair to his colorful briefs. Taz said it looked like he got his underwear from Wal-Mart. Lethal ripped off Flair's pants and then his socks and shoes. From Orlando Jordan to this, which is "more gay"? Lethal used a trash can as a weapon. Flair poked Lethal in the eyes. Tenay called it a "spectacle." Lethal caught Flair on the top rope and superplexed him. When Lethal went for the cover, Williams yanked him out of the ring. Lethal came back in with a sunset flip, but Flair held his ground. Lethal pulled down on Flair's underwear, so they digitized the screen. As Earl Hebner pulled Flair's underwear back up, Williams KO'd Lethal with his X Title belt. Flair crawled over and made the cover.

WINNER: Flair in 5:00. That was not fun to watch.

6 -- RAVEN & ABYSS vs. ROB VAN DAM & TOMMY DREAMER

Taz reminisced about the days way back when in South Philadelphia. Taz said Abyss could have fit in with the ECW wrestlers back in the day. Tenay then hyped that "TNA Reaction" premieres next week after Impact. "All Talk, No Action!" should be that show's motto. Raven blew his nose on a white rag and then shoved it in Dreamer's face. A crawler on the screen asked viewers to tune in to TNAwrestling.com for confirmed wrestlers for Hardcore Justice. Taz said he's heard rumors about who might be on the PPV, but he's not going to spoil that. "You gotta get the pay-per-view if you wanna see it. That's the way it goes." Uh, not really. There's quite a tradition in wrestling, in fact, of letting fans know who they're paying to see ahead of time. RVD pinned Raven with the Five-Star Frog Splash.

WINNERS: RVD & Dreamer in 4:00.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 08 2010, 02:37 am
WWE Superstars Results: 8-5-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article10013370.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Layla (w/Michelle McCool) defeated Tiffany at 5:12. Tiffany worked some early offense and Layla rolled to the floor. McCool checked on her and Tiffany shoved McCool to the floor. She rolled Layla back in the ring, and McCool kicked the leg from behind. She apparently had on steel toed wedges because Tiffany sold like she had been shot. Layla worked heel moves on the leg and locked in a modified Indian Death Lock. She rolled it up for a near fall, and Tiffany went berserk. She hit several strikes on Layla and then a bulldog for two. She went to the second rope for a high crossbody. She missed, and Layla hit a Rude Awakening for the win…

Shore’s Slant: Tiffany was much better this time. But she’s still a turd sandwich. I appreciate the effort, but she’s just not interesting as a character or good enough in the ring to hold my attention any longer than her skirt. And LayCool desperately needs to split. You know, I could have gone roughly forever without seeing that video again and I would have considered myself lucky.

2. Vance Archer and Curt Hawkins defeated The Dudebusters at 9:21. Archer and Baretta started. Archer ran the ropes and slapped Baretta. Baretta snapped and attacked. He tagged in Croft, and Hawkins drove Croft back to the corner and tagged in Archer. Archer beat one Croft, but Croft fought back and tagged in Baretta. They tried for a double clothesline, but Archer blew right through it. They hit a double dropkick to the knees instead. Baretta tagged Croft back in after a near fall and Croft ate a big boot. Archer whipped Croft to the corner and charged. Croft got the foot up and hopped to the top. Archer pushed him to the floor…

Back at 5:33, Hawkins kicked Croft in the back and covered for two. A video showed Hawkins whipping Croft into the railing during the break. Hawkins hit a big slam and tagged in Archer. Archer kicked Croft in the head and covered for two. He hit a “trapped over the head belly to belly,” according to Matt Striker, for two. Hawkins tagged in and worked a rest hold. Croft escaped and got the hot tag. Baretta cleaned house with Hawkins using some innovative offense. Baretta rolled up Hawkins, but Archer got the blind tag. He kicked Baretta in the head, and they followed with their combo finisher for the win. Post-match, Hawkins cut a promo and said they wanted gold. He said if the Harts didn’t come to them, they would find the Harts…

Shore’s Slant: Never in my life have I prayed for a tag team squash, but I did here. Surprisingly though, I really enjoyed the match. As much as I despise the Dudebusters gimmick, I do think they can wrestle. And Archer and Hawkins have looked good together too. So I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, but I was. And the right team one too. Their feud with the Harts could be very good if done right. Here’s hoping it happens on Smackdown so the Raw creative team stays away.

3. Evan Bourne defeated Zack Ryder at 13:05. Ryder broke the first tie-up dirty, but Bourne came back with a drop toe hold and low dropkick for two. Ryder came back and hit a knee to Bourne’s gut for two. Bourne battled back and hit a dropkick and flying head scissor. He clotheslined Ryder to the floor and went to the top. He dove off, but Ryder moved and Bourne hit the railing. Both men recovered into the break…

Back at 7:33, Ryder worked a rest hold on Bourne. The announce team reintroduced themselves in case you are turning into WWE for the first time…with five minutes left in the least important show they do. Wow. Ryder hit a neckbreaker for two and went back to the rest hold. He laid Bourne in the corner and hit a running kick for two. Bourne hooked a small package for two. Bourne ran the ropes on a whip and hit a spinning heel kick.

He hit a running knee of Ryder and covered for two. He started for the top, but Ryder grabbed his foot. Bourne kicked him away and charged. Ryder reversed into a powerbomb for two. Ryder went to the top, but Bourne ran up and hit a backdrop from the top rope. He followed with AirBourne for the win…

Shore’s Slant: The announce team showed us how important this match is by talking about team Raw and all of its problems instead of the match. It was a typical Bourne match, but with fewer hot spots. I don’t know, it just kind of bored me. It was the opposite of the tag match, really.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 08 2010, 02:38 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-6-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_42946.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MATT HARDY vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Rhodes went right after Hardy in the corner, but Hardy turned things around. Corner clotheslined, then a running bulldog from Hardy. First cover of the night for a two-count. Hardy went for a Twist of Fate, but Rhodes ducked out of the ring as they went to break.

Hardy was working the arm of Rhodes out of break. Double leg-drop to the mid-section for two. Springboard kick to the back of the head by Rhodes, and a beauty. He’s got that move down pat. Sunset flip by Matt for a near-fall. Rhodes came back with a suplex attempt by Hardy got an inside cradle for two. Rhodes got to his feet first and kneed Hardy in the head. Front suplex by Rhodes. Right hands by Cody after he worked a face-lock on the mat. Neckbreaker variation from Hardy, followed by a few clotheslines. Side Effect for two. Twist of Fate, but Rhodes rolled Hardy up for two. Side Russian leg-sweep, but a knee-drop missed from the Dashign one. Hardy to the second rope, but Rhodes tried to pry him off for an Alabama Slam. Instead, Rhodes dropped Hardy’s face on the top turnbuckle. Cross-Rhodes from Cody for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 10:15. Good win for Cody, and a nice little match. Nothing terribly unique about it, just a well-worked bout.

2 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. KOFI KINGSTON – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Ziggler went to ringside following an aggressive start by Kingston. Take-down by Kofi, but Ziggler elbowed out of a rear waist-lock. Ziggler threw Kingston out of the ring but he landed on his feet. He climbed back into the ring and dove at Ziggler. He pounded away and Ziggler again tried to go outside. But Kingston met him out there with a clothesline. Kofi looked like he didn’t know what to do with Ziggler, and ended up driving him head-first into the apron. Back in the ring, Ziggler took over on offense. Todd Grisham said that many folks feel that Ziggler is the most talented superstar to not have won a title. Kingston fired back with rights to the torso of Ziggler, followed by a dropkick and a clothesline that sent Ziggler over the top and out of the ring. He dove through the ropes and onto Ziggler; they had a wide shot of it as it was happening, and it looked even more

They showed what happened during the break where Ziggler turned the tide on Kofi. Vickie provided the distraction to allow Ziggler to take over. Dolph worked on the left arm of Kingston, kicking and punching at it. Series of elbowdrops by Ziggler found the mark on Kofi’s chest. Dolph worked the neck and arm of Kingston, stretching him in the middle of the ring. Arm-stunner by Ziggler, as called by Striker, for a two-count. Guerrero got on the apron and applauded Ziggler, blowing kisses to him. Out of nowhere, Trouble in Paradise by Kofi. Vickie came into the ring and got in the face of the referee, Aaron “Goose” Mahoney. That provided enough of a distraction for Ziggler to Zig-Zag Kingston for the win and the title.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 10:46. Fine match, but I didn’t like the finish. Seemed like Ziggler popped up too quickly from the Trouble in Paradise.

3 – THE STRAIGHT EDGE SOCIETY vs. JTG & CHRIS MASTERS & MVP

This can’t be a good sign for MVP. MVP was worked over by the Society in the heel corner as Striker compared the SES to the Freebirds as far as six-man combinations go. Hard uppercut, then a splash by the former Festus for two. MVP fought out of a chin-lock and was elbowed down. Another tag to Mercury, who hit a neckbreaker for two. Gallows tried to prevent a tag, and even attacked both of MVP’s partners to make sure he couldn’t do it. MVP looked ready for a comeback, but when he hit the ropes, Punk got his foot up and kicked MVP in the back of the head. Big boot by Gallows, that showed a bit of light, but got the pin anyway.

WINNERS: The Straight Edge Society, at 3:02.

4 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre locked up with Rey and shoved him into the corner. Mysterio, though, proved too quick for McIntyre, frustrating the Scotsman. Mysterio took his eyes off his opponent and McIntyre caught him with a clothesline. McIntyre stomped away at Mysterio’s mid-section in the corner. Drop-toe hold by Mysterio into the turnbuckle, then hung up in position for a 619. McIntyre rolled out of the ring and Mysterio dove onto him. Back in the ring, springboard attempt missed but he landed on his feet, only to be clotheslined by McIntyre. Short-arm clothesline. Crowd chanted in Spanish for Mysterio. He low-bridged McIntyre out of the ring and hurricanrana’d McIntyre down at ringside.

McIntyre was back on offense out of break, though he was holding his back in pain. Mac powerbombed Mysterio into the corner and went for a cover, getting two. McIntyre stretched Mysterio’s body around the ring post on the outside. Mysterio then found himself being dropped onto the announce table. He was able to pull himself back into the ring at the count of nine. McIntyre was all over his foe as soon as Mysterio crawled back into the squared circle. Rey fought out of a rest-hold and tried to go for a bulldog, but it was snuffed out by McIntyre, who sent Rey to the mat face-first. He put Rey on his back and dropped him on his knee for a gut-buster and a two-count. Top arm-bar by McIntyre, but Mysterio again connected with a few knees. Tilt-a-whirl into a DDT for Mysterio. Mysterio with a seated senton, then a springboard cross-body for a near-fall. Both men tried to recover and catch their breath at this point. Another tilt-a-whirl, this time in McIntyre’s favor, a back-breaker. Shoulders to the gut in the corner by Drew, followed by forearms to the face. He didn’t seem to know how to end the match, though. Well duh, he hasn’t even gone for the Futureshock DDT yet. Oh, there he goes setting up for it, but Mysterio slid out. 619 missed, but he rolled McIntyre up for the three away.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 14:31. Solid TV main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2010, 01:19 pm
TNA Hardcore Justice PPV results are now posted on my Wrestling Blog at TOKYOPOP. Click the link below my signature picture for all the details.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 11 2010, 01:07 am
WWE RAW Results: 8-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_43004.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

Miz was aggressive early on, looking much different than working with Randy Orton on last week's show when he looked timid and intimidated by the main event opportunity. Miz continued to take it to Bourne, who fiught back with kick strikes until Miz side-stepped a knee strike and flung him to the mat. Bourne rolled to the corner to recover, then Miz measured him for the running clothesline corner spot. Miz continued to sell aggressiveness after the move, with the camera focusing on his facials to sell the moment. Miz attempted a suplex, but Miz landed a knee strike to the head. It's worth noting there's been no discussion of Miz as U.S. champion or confirming it's a non-title match.

Bourne pulled off a spectacular snap huracanrana for a two count, then Miz came back with an aggressive clothesline for a two count. Miz then stalked Bourne and measured him with the Skullcrushing Finale, which he connected with. Miz with the pin for the win. Cole said he believes Miz will soon be WWE champion. They replayed highspots from the match, then Miz took the mic. Miz said he doesn't care of it's Orton or Sheamus that wins the "title" this Sunday; he's ready to cash in his contract. Miz did his "awesome" catchphrase to heel heat, then Cole continued to talk up Miz.

WINNER: Miz at 4:03. Much, much better performance from Miz this week after looking intimidated on the big stage last week on Raw. Miz got over his aggressiveness, mean streak, and used his facial expressions effectively. Bourne had his moments to look somewhat decent coming out of the match, but it's clear he's slipped down a peg or two since that big push with Cena two months ago. (*1/2)

2 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX vs. MELINA -- non-title match

In-ring: Melina came out to the ring with her full paparazzi ring entrance. Divas champion Alicia Fox then came out and we have a . The match moved to the floor early on and Alicia smashed Melina with a hard clothesline, with Melina's head bumping off the floor. Back in the ring, Alicia hit a spinning backbreaker across his knee for a two count. Alicia then followed with a backbreaker submission. Melina then countered with a sweet Canadian Destroyer-style counter and scored a pin for the win. Melina celebrated, winning her first match back in WWE. "I'm back," she mouthed to the crowd.

WINNER: Melina at 3:43. Fine return match for Melina. It's good to have a strong babyface back on the women's roster. (*1/4)

3 -- PERCY WATSON & KAVAL & LUCKY CANNON vs. JOE HENNIG & ALEX RILEY & HUSKY HARRIS

Watson started things off and took a beating from the heels. Sheamus was shown sitting down ringside still PO'ed about being shown up by Orton. Watson made a comeback and tagged in Kaval, who came in with a strong reaction. Kaval landed kick strikes on Riley before applying a neck vice in the ropes. Kaval then hit a springboard martial arts kick for a two count. The action then broke down with Lucky trying to make an impression with a plancha on the outside. Back in the ring, Harris blind-tagged into the match and cut off Kaval before landing a flying plancha. Harris grazed Kaval, but made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Sheamus tore apart the NXT Rookies to get his heat back. He smashed Hennig and Cannon on the outside, then entered the ring to clear away the other Rookies. Poor Kaval was left alone in the ring. Sheamus picked up the scraps by landing a running Outsider's Edge, the High Cross, on Kaval. Sheamus then grabbed the mic as Watson helped Kaval out of the ring. He said it's a message to the GM, the fans, and especially Randy Orton. Sheamus guaranteed he will still be WWE champ this time next week. He threw the mic down, then stormed out of the ring.

WINNERS: Riley & Harris & Hennig at 3:06. Solid use of the NXT Rookies for Sheamus to get his heat back ahead of Summerslam. Proper use of scrubs if they're going to be featured on Raw. (*)

4 -- ZACK RYDER & WILLIAM REGAL vs. JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH

Ryder and Regal worked over Truth early on. Ryder then showboated and ate the turnbuckle for his trouble. Morrison took a hot tag from Truth, then followed with a high leg whip and a flip-over facebuster. Unique move. The action broke down as Morrison nailed Ryder with the Flying Chuck. Morrison then followed up with Starship Pain, and they went to a different camera angle in case he airballed it. Morrison with the cover for the win. Morrison and Truth hugged it out as Cole said this was big for Team WWE's unity.

WINNERS: Morrison & Truth at 2:13. As expected here. Fine match with an eye on Summerslam. (n/a)

5 -- BELLA TWINS vs. GAIL KIM & EVE vs. MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL -- Santino and Kozlov special referees

The action broke down early on in this as various beach-appropriate props became involved, including an inner tube. The Bellas eventually scored the pin for the win. Post-match: Tamina of the Usos group randomly entered the ring. She was out of place not dressed for the beach. Tamina walked up to Santino and gave him a once-over. Santino and Kozlov then walked out of the ring and Tamina sold that she was enthralled with Santino.

WINNERS: Bellas at 2:42. Odd. In a lot of ways. (n/a)

6 -- BRET HART & JOHN CENA vs. EDGE & CHRIS JERICHO -- Nexus as lumberjacks

Cena was knocked to the outside early on, so Nexus beat him up a bit before rolling him back into the ring. They repeated this after Jericho rolled Cena to the outside. Jericho mocked the "Cena, Cena" chants before Cena bought some time throwing Jericho to the floor. Nexus gave Jericho some space and Jericho sold fear over what they might do, but they didn't touch him. Jericho confidently re-entered the ring, then Cena and Jericho exchanged holds. Cena found himself on the outside, but he got in a blow on Barrett. Cena then caused Jericho to bump Barrett before knocking Jericho to the floor. Jericho told Nexus to get them, but Nexus jumped Jericho on the outside. Edge then took a beating. Gabriel rolled into the ring where Hart decked him, then Nexus regrouped on the outside with a discussion.

Nexus slowly circled the ring as the match apparently came to a halt. Annoying non-finish here. Suddenly, Morrison and Truth hit the ring to back up Cena and Hart. Nexus then entered the ring as Edge was shown leaving. Jericho then joined Edge on the ramp. They sort of looked at each other and Jericho motioned for them to leave. Edge then motioned back the other way and they charged the ring to stand next to Team WWE.

They cut to a shot of the hard camera showing both sides squaring off against each other itching for a fight. They had the shaky hard cam for this and a hot crowd, then a big fight broke out in the ring. Barrett hightailed it out of the ring and Nexus followed him out of the ring. Skip was shown running stadium steps to the top of the lower level. Nexus joined them in the stands as Edge stood tall in the ring. Nexus was shown standing at the top of the lower level seats with Team WWE standing together in the ring. Cena's music hit and the announcers were silent as the camera cut back and forth between Team WWE and Team Nexus staring at each other. Cena was shown standing tall in the ring as Nexus shot him hand gestures. "It's on Sunday at Summerslam" was the message to conclude the show ten minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNER: No decision at no time. The annoying non-finish habit continued here, as expected with the final angle needing to be Team WWE strong and united going into Summerslam. A seventh slot remains to be filled. Perhaps they can have Miz, Henry, Bourne, Khali, and DiBiase in a PPV-opening battle royal. Overall, good final hype for Summerslam. Never underestimate the power of the shaky hard cam. WWE hopes renewed interest in Raw via the Nexus angle, the audience believing Nexus is a legit threat, and a strong front by Team WWE to conclude the final sales pitch will be enticing enough to order a PPV where a wrestling match likely won't settle anything, if we're being realistic here. It will be interesting to see if WWE translates increased viewership into increased PPV buyers on Sunday. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 11 2010, 01:08 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 8-9-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10013443.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Rasche Brown defeated Necro Butcher in a Butcher's Rules match by DQ in 3:55. Necro is now sporting a shaved head, but still has the hobo beard. Brown dominated briefly and ripped Necro's shirt off. Necro rolled to the floor and Brown tried a dive, but ran head-first into a steel chair. The camera cut late so I couldn't tell if Brown got his hands up, but it sounded like he did.

Necro controlled the action for a bit before Brown suplexed him to the floor. Brown grabbed a chair and Necro got one of his own. They faced off with the chairs in the ring but Erick Stevens ran in and attacked Brown to cause the DQ. The rest of the Embassy attacked Brown but the locker room, led by the Dark City Fight Club, came down and ran off the Embassy.

Joe's Judgment: I wonder if this feud will ever progress. It seems like it's at the same place it was a year ago, only the names have changed and some have switched sides.

2. Colt Cabana defeated Alex Anthony in 2:20. Anthony's gear looks like "a cross between Little Richard and Sabu" according to Dave Prazak. Some comedy early on with Cabana backing Anthony into the ropes with a collar and elbow tie-up, then somehow getting Todd Sinclair to switch places, then counting five for Sinclair. As Colt admonished Sinclair, Anthony tried a rollup, but couldn't get Colt down.

Colt dominated with his European style stuff, then won with a Flying *******, bionic elbow, and Billy Goat's Curse for the submission. As Colt's music played, Kevin Steen walked out with a chair and hit the guardrails a couple times, distracting Cabana while Steve Corino ran out with a chain and hit Cabana in the head. Corino then started to choke out Cabana and a student ran down to stop him, but was thrown out of the ring by Steen. El Generico ran down with a chair to make the save and Steen grabbed Anthony and the student as a human shield.

Joe's Judgment: From the use of the chain I'm guessing we might get a dog collar match of some sort at Glory By Honor. The squash was entertaining and while it was a bit strange to see Colt clowning around, he flipped the switch to serious quickly enough.

3. Tyler Black vs. Christopher Daniels went to a time limit draw in 20:00. Daniels didn't shake hands with Black, which they could have made a big deal out of given Daniels' history, especially considering they were talking about how he helped found ROH at the time.

Daniels worked the arm for the first minute and a half before they traded athletic reversals and Tyler scored with a kick to the back for a nearfall. There was a pretty sick series of reversals of basic moves about two minutes in and Daniels ended up going back to Black's arm. At 6:00, Daniels held a hammerlock and drove Black shoulder-first into the turnbuckles.

Black backdropped Daniels onto the apron shortly thereafter, and when Daniels tried a suplex Black hit a Pele kick, then a tope con hilo. Black set Daniels up on the apron and hit a running knee strike that got two after he pulled Daniels back in the ring.

Black stomped on Daniels' face and went to work on the neck. Daniels connected with a couple right hands but Black hit a backdrop and another running knee. Black got two with a side slam and then got in the face of Todd Sinclair.

At 12:45, Black whipped Daniels into the ropes where he caught himself as Black backflipped in the middle of the ring. Daniels caught him with a kick and a Blue Thunder powerbomb for a nearfall. Daniels got two again with a DVD and went for the Angel's Wings, but Black fought out and kicked Daniels in the head.

Black went for the bucklebomb, but Daniels reversed and drove him headfirst into the second turnbuckle and hit the Fall From Grace for two. Daniels pointed at the corner for the BME but as he stepped over Tyler, Tyler rolled him up for a nearfall. Tyler got two again with a leaping lariat and went for the Phoenix Splash, but Daniels prevented it.

Black hit a superkick and then Paroxysm for two. Black clubbed Daniels' back and then went for the Pele kick which Daniels dropped down to avoid and then immediately locked in the Koji Clutch. Oh wow. Black picked Daniels up and ran him into the turnbuckles. Both men exchanged pinning combinations until the bell rang for the time limit draw.

Roderick Strong came out and said that now that Daniels has shown he couldn't get the job done, he wanted the shot he earned in Toronto. Davey Richards followed (with new tights) and said Strong had to go through him to earn his shot. Daniels said that they were too narcissistic to realize that the only one of them who Black hadn't pinned was him, and the camera closed with the four of them arguing in the ring and a video hyped next week's Strong/Richards main event to close the show.

Joe's Judgment: Awesome action. Some of the reversals, particularly the Pele kick into the Koji Clutch, were beautiful, and even the more pedestrian ones were nice. The arm work was kind of forgotten by the end of the match, but the action more than made up for it. Fantastic match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 12 2010, 12:10 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-10-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43025.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination sequence.

1 -- LUCKY CANNON & KAVAL & PERCY WATSON vs. HUSKY HARRIS & JOE HENNIG & HUSKY HARRIS

This would be the perfect spot to show a pinfall can happen at any moment, which was a key part of the discussion on the Livecast today. Cannon almost succeeded with a quick pin attempt on Harris that resulted in a nearfall. The re-match from last night's Raw included Kaval looking just fine and healthy on the babyface team. That seems to undermine the WWE champ, Sheamus's, finishing move and offense if Kaval is fine for a match the night after Sheamus destroyed him. Cannon and Watson tagged in and out for the babyfaces, leaving Kaval on the outside, as the announcers said Lucky needs to find an edge or he could be eliminated. Lucky then measured Riley and took him out with a suicide dive on the outside. After the spot, Lucky sold his shoulder and Riley sold a blow to his face as they cut to break.

Back from break, Lucky was selling in the ring after Riley regained control of the match. The heels tagged in and working over Lucky as Mathews quizzed Cole on who he voted for in the NXT poll. Miz said he voted for Alex Riley. It was a trick question - he was supposed to say Linda McMahon...or his integrity as a broadcaster meant he did not want to show favoritism and opted not to vote. Or not.

Kaval eventually tagged in at 10:00 and worked on Hennig with kick strikes. He then applied a unique submission hanging on Hennig's back, but Husky broke it up. The action totally broke down, then Kaval and Hennig were left in the ring. Hennig went for a neckbreaker, but Kaval moved and landed a big double foot smash in the corner. Kaval then went up top a big cheer and landed his Warrior's Way double foot smash to the chest. Kaval with the pin - with the crowd shouting one...two...three - and the win. Cue up Lay-Cool with the big celebration. Cole said that was huge for Kaval, who he said has been the favorite of the "Internet folks." Mathews said Kaval might have swayed some votes from the Pros. The babyfaces celebrated in the ring while Kaval smiled at the heels retreating on the outside.

WINNERS: Team Kaval in 11:00. Decent tag match. Lucky's role was pretty apparent - take the crowd down, then set them up for a big high when Kaval tagged in and started executing his offense. Nice showcase for Kaval, who has certainly been over with this crowd tonight. (*1/2)

2 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

Miz took control of the match as Cole attempted to shoot down the team chemistry concept considering Chris Jericho and Edge are now part of Team WWE. Morrison then came back with a corner attack before executing a nice corkscrew plancha onto Miz on the floor. They cut to break with Morrison in control.

Back from break, Miz had Morrison in a reverse chinlock back in the ring. They replayed the corkscrew plancha from during the break as Morrison tried to break free of the chinlock, but Miz cut him off with a yank of the hair. Miz continued an aggressive attack, including his signature running corner clothesline. Cole tried to make himself relevant on Madden 2011 day with a "Miz is like the John Madden of NXT" reference. Morrison fought back from his knees against Miz, then executed a roll-up for a two count. Morrison landed a kick thrust, then an explosive clothesline, followed by a pancake. Morrison fired up the crowd before nailing the springboard Flying Chuck for a two count. Morrison attempted a running knee strike, but Miz ducked and kicked J-Mo in the head for a two count.

They went to the finish where Morrison teased Starship Pain, but Miz moved out of the way. Morrison then attempted a leaping enziguiri kick, but Miz ducked. Morrison sold smashing his knee into the ropes and hobbled out of the corner where Morrison executed a Skullcrushing Finale. Miz with the pin for the win. Cole said Team WWE doesn't need another injury before Summerslam. He added an odd line that this didn't accomplish anything other than Miz winning yet again. They replayed the finish as Miz held the U.S. Title belt and MITB briefcase in Morrison's face. Cole suggested Miz controls the fate of Team WWE come Sunday when he decides whether to join the team or not.

WINNER: Miz in 11:00. Good TV match with some good back-and-forth. A Morrison match is always subject to a mistimed spot or two, but he kept a pretty clean sheet here. (I miss the World Cup.) Nice emphasis on Miz heading to Summerslam to reinforce his heel persona. (**)

Kaval is back to #1. Lay-Cool celebrated in fine fashion. Hennig is #2, dropping from #1 in the last poll. #3 is Percy Watson, who leapfrogged Alex Riley, surprisingly. Husky Harris was #4, so he's out of the danger zone for the first time. So, it's Riley or Lucky. Striker asked them to step forward to see how this is going down. And #5 is Alex Riley, who breathed a sigh of relief. Actually, Miz breathed a deeper sigh of relief. #6 is Lucky Cannon, and he's gone.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 12 2010, 12:10 pm
TNA News: Eric Bischoff refutes claim Hulk Hogan & Bischoff are leaving TNA
 (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_43042.shtml)

Quote
Eric Bischoff is refuting claims made by an apparent Hulk Hogan imposter on Twitter that Hogan and Bischoff are leaving TNA.

There has recently been talk of Hogan creating an official Twitter page. Eric Bischoff linked to the apparent new Hogan page earlier today, which followed Hogan's close friend, Bubba the Love Sponge, linking to it on his Twitter page last night.

The apparent imposter "Hogan" posted today that Bischoff and he are departing TNA "on a mutual basis." Bischoff followed by saying on his Twitter that the Hogan account he linked to was fake and the claims were not true.

"The Hulk Hogan twitter posts are fake. Hulk IS in the process of setting up a page, but has not as yet. The rumors of us leaving TNA are bogus," Bischoff said after the posts were made.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 15 2010, 01:22 am
All of this week's shows (WWE Superstars and Smackdown plus TNA's Whole F'n Show!) are posted on my TOKYOPOP Blog link below my signature picture. Some are extra-long so I would't be able to post them here without some issues. You can also go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #10413 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3043884&postcount=10413) and posts thereafter for results and news about a wrestler dying yesterday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 16 2010, 01:15 pm
WWE SummerSlam PPV Results: 8-15-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_43139.shtml). Results posted here cover the next three posts.

1 -- Intercontinental champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- IC Title match

Kingston quickly showed off his new aggressiveness and Cole noted he can't win the IC Title via DQ tonight. Kofi knocked Dolph to the outside, then attempted a plancha, but Vickie yanked Dolph out of the way for the save. Kofi barely made it back into the ring, then Dolph went on the attack with right hands. The announcers continued to focus on Vickie and Dolph's relationship as Dolph slowed things down. Striker acknowledged the attempt to "create levity" and they re-focused on calling the match with Dolph working over Kingston's back and upper neck. Dolph missed with a corner splash to finally lose control of the match and Kingston fired off a round of chops. Kingston drew the ref's ire with a succession of right hands from a mount position, then hit the Boom Drop.

Dolph and Kofi traded nearfalls in rapid-fire fashion. Dolph then "made Kofi famous," as Striker said, with the Rocker Dropper for a two count. Kofi tried to come back with the Trouble in Paradise kick, but Dolph ducked and slapped on the sleeperhold. Suddenly, Nexus stormed the ring from out of nowhere and ambushed Kingston. Dolph was clotheslined to the floor, leaving Kofi alone in the ring. Nexus circled around him and Kofi tried to fight out, but Nexus gang attacked him. Darren Young got the spotlight to hit a spinning facebuster, then Barrett picked up Kingston to give him his trademark overhead slam.

Nexus stood over Kingston's fallen body and Barrett took the mic. He said this is a little taste of what's going to happen tonight. Barrett said Team WWE is looking for a seventh member right now, but it won't make a difference because the roster is so fragmented and so divided that they won't be able to get together long enough to sign a birthday card. Great line. On the other hand, Barrett claimed Nexus is the most destructive force in WWE history. He said they're united behind a common purpose. He put WWE...and the world on notice that they're either Nexus or against us. Barrett dropped the mic and left the ring.

WINNER: No Decision at 7:05. Another annoying "no decision announced," but they accomplished an important goal establishing Nexus as a major threat right off the bat. The match to this point was just okay with the strong points being the nearfalls at the end. (*)

2 -- Divas champion ALICIA FOX vs. MELINA -- Divas Title match

Divas champion Alicia Fox came out first to defend the title, followed by Melina returning to her hometown wearing...well...something perhaps from the Lady Gaga collection. Melina struggled to remove the elaborate wardrobe, causing a delay before the opening bell. They had a back-and-forth opening exchange before Melina began selling a knee injury by hobbling around the ring. Alicia then worked over Melina, who came back with a Thesz Press and did a primal scream to set up her comeback. Melina then finished off Alicia to score the pinfall to re-capture the Divas Title she never lost before going down with an injury in December. They stayed with the moment for a while as Melina celebrated the victory.

In the post-match, Josh Mathews tried to get an interview with Melina, but Lay-Cool interrupted, with Layla holding the Women's Title. Lay-Cool slowly made their way into the ring and tried to verbally tear her down while also circling around her. A catfight broke out with Melina trying to fight off Layla, but McCool clobbered her from behind. They knocked Melina to the outside, then trash-talked her. McCool followed with a big designer-shoe kick to the gut, knocking Melina into the guardrail.

WINNER: Melina at 5:25 to capture the Divas Title. An awkward match at times, but the bigger story being perhaps a little foreshadowing for unifying the two women's titles? It's reasonable considering the lack of roster depth, injuries, and overall de-emphasis on women's wrestling in WWE. (*)

3 -- BIG SHOW vs. STRAIGHT EDGE SOCIETY (C.M. PUNK & JOSEPH MERCURY & LUKE GALLOWS w/Serena) -- handicap match

Punk tried to form a conference to discuss their strategy, but Show knocked all the pins down early on. Punk went for comedy grabbing the tag rope while standing on the apron as Show cleared the ring. The match moved to the floor where Punk tried to smash Show's hand into the ring steps, but Show side-stepped him. Show tried to follow with the big frying pan-like chop, but Punk moved and Show's injured hand ate the ring steps. SES quickly seized an opportunity to smash Show's hand before taking him back into the ring to do some more damage.

Big Show made a comeback with a fired-up attack, but Punk cut him off and landed a high knee in the corner. Punk and Mercury then combined for a double bulldog, with Show kinda rolling on top of Mercury, who tried to avoid being squashed. Punk tried to capitalize with elbow strikes to the arm, but Show lifted Punk in the air. Mercury attempted a top rope dive, but Show guzzled him. Luke then kicked Show in the gut, sending Punk over the top rope, then Show double-clotheslined Luke and Joey. Serena helped Punk to his feet on the floor. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Show chokeslammed Joey on top of Luke and made the double cover for the pin and the win. Post-match: Punk and Serena stood on the stage staring back at Show, who glared at them from inside the ring.

WINNER: Big Show at 6:50. Show gets the win, but Punk survived Show to continue the program. Basic booking here. Not exactly exciting stuff, though. (*)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 16 2010, 01:15 pm
4 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. RANDY ORTON -- WWE Title match

The stipulations are that anyone who outside interferes will be suspended indefinitely. No word on whether that applies to Nexus, which has been favored by the anonymous Raw GM. Also, if Orton loses, he goes to the back of the line. Sheamus did a lot of showboating early on, prompting Orton to kick him and stomp him into the corner. Orton then clotheslined Sheamus over the top rope to the outside and rammed him head-first into the announce table. Orton took him over the guardrail to the front row as the ref applied a ten count. Orton continued to attack Sheamus, then realized the count situation and took him back to ringside and back into the ring.

Orton did his classic stomp before knocking Sheamus to the outside again. Sheamus is taking a beating early on here. Orton then tried to whip Sheamus into the ring steps, but Sheamus reversed and Orton ate the steps. Orton sold a shoulder/elbow injury to the right arm before rolling back into the ring. Sheamus then went on the attack with rapid-fire right hands as the crowd tried to rally with a "Randy, Randy" chant. Orton tried to come back with his spike DDT off the middle rope, but Sheamus countered with a back drop clear over the top rope to the floor. And the match moved back to the outside. Sheamus rammed Orton into the guardrail two deliberate times before taking him back into the ring. Sheamus landed a Polish Hammer, then made a cover for a two count.

At 10:00, Sheamus settled into a rear chinlock. Orton came to his feet and tried to fight back, but Sheamus countered with a drop toe hold into the middle turnbuckle. Nice counter. Orton tried another comeback, but Sheamus cut him off with another Polish Hammer. Sheamus went back to work on the neck with a submission hold and Orton teased another comeback before hitting a back drop suplex to escape. Orton and Sheamus came together and started trading right hand bombs to energize the crowd with boo / yeah chants. Orton entered full babyface comeback mode with the snap powerslam before cocking his head to tease the RKO. Not yet, though, as Orton took Sheamus up top and executed a superplex. Orton made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in time.

Orton slithered across the ring, then stalked Sheamus. He tried to hit a clothesline, but Sheamus ducked and hit the Irish Curse backbreaker for another nearfall. Sheamus teased the Brogue Kick, but Orton was slow to get to his feet against the ropes. Sheamus, impatient, tried the kick anyways, but Orton ducked and Sheamus spilled to the outside. Sheamus tried to get back into the ring, but Orton snapped to attention and dropped him with the spike DDT off the middle rope. Orton then snapped and "went into that place" grabbing his face with his hands. Orton pounded the mat to tease the RKO, but Sheamus shoved Orton off just in time to avoid the RKO. Sheamus made a cover, but Orton kicked out. Nice nearfall.

Sheamus tried to follow up with the Celtic Cross powerbomb, but Orton slipped out. Orton teased the RKO, but Sheamus shoved off and nailed the Brogue Kick for a close nearfall. They finally have the crowd fully engaged here. Sheamus teased ripping his hair out after the nearfall, then he rolled to the outside and grabbed a chair. Sheamus tried to enter the ring with the chair, but ref Jack Doane fought him for control of it. The ref was flung to the outside in the process, and the ref called for a DQ. Yep, they pretty much gave away the DQ finish on Raw last Monday. Sheamus smiled down at the ref after he called for the DQ.

Post-match: Still in the ring, Sheamus measured Orton for a chair shot as Orton slowly made his way to his feet. Orton ducked, though, then kicked Sheamus with a deliberate strike to the groin. Orton then slowly picked up the chair, but dropped it on the mat and rolled Sheamus to the outside. Orton's IED kicked in and he started clearing the announce table. Orton put Sheamus on the announce table and stared down at Sheamus. He shot him a sinister smile, then RKO'ed Sheamus onto the announce table. No table break. Orton's music hit and that was that. He walked away from ringside after being declared the victor, then his music stopped. Roberts announced Sheamus as still being WWE champion, which drew a smattering of boos. A medic helped Sheamus recover after taking the RKO on the table. Sheamus sold and sold and sold before flinging the medics away to try to stand up on his own. No Miz cash-in?

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 18:56; Sheamus retained the WWE Title. Methodical ten-minute opening, then a strong second-half finally getting the crowd engaged. The DQ finish was expected based on the Raw hype and Orton's chase for the title continues. It likely wasn't the finish most WWE fans were looking for, though, after a so-so first hour. (**3/4)

5 -- World Hvt. champion KANE vs. REY MYSTERIO -- World Hvt. Title match

Kane landed early offense, but Rey won a cat & mouse game on the outside, including a running splash off the apron. Back in the ring, Kane took control with power offense overcoming Rey's speed. Back on the outside, Kane rammed Rey back-first into the ringpost before rolling him back into the ring. And back inside the ring they went where Kane went to work on Rey trying to wear him down. Striker channeled Jesus's speech to the disciples about Rey's spirit being stronger than his flesh taking Kane's punishment to enhance the story of the match. And back to the outside they went where Rey gained a brief advantage. He rolled Kane back into the ring before going to the top turnbuckle for a flying head-first dive. The result was a two count. Kane then went back to work on Rey and continued to wear him down. Kane was pretty humorous channeling Tyson Kidd and Chris Jericho talking trash in the middle of a submission hold telling Rey to give up and avoid further punishment.

At 9:20, Kane went up top, but Rey cut him off. With the crowd dead quiet, tone-deaf Cole said the crowd is on the edge of their seats here. Striker corrected him that they're in an "uncomfortable hush" anticipating what's going to happen. The match reset with Rey going up top with a sentaun that connected. Rey followed with a spinning DDT for a two count. Rey then hit a springboard guillotine leg drop to the back of the head for another two count. Rey followed with right hands, followed by a kick strike to the face for another two count. Rey went up top, but Kane countered with a mid-air uppercut for another nearfall.

Kane walked over to the casket and opened the lid. He teased a chokeslam, but Rey blocked and set up the 619. Kane grabbed him to block, though, and teased a chokeslam, but Rey fell into the casket. Rey fought out of the casket, then missed with a second 619 attempt. He connected on the third 619 attempt, though. Rey tried a springboard splash, but Kane blocked. Rey tried a roll-up anyways, but Kane kicked out. Kane then blasted Rey with a boot to the face. He proceeded to drop Rey with a chokeslam and he made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Kane at 13:30 to retain the World Hvt. Title. Sluggish match, uninterested crowd, and a solid final two minutes was the story here. The casket was a decent prop to include in the match to enhance the finish. (**)

Post-match: Kane took the mic and talked down to Rey, who was on the mat selling. Kane told Rey he will pay for what he did to his brother with eternal suffering. Kane leaned in close to Rey to tell him he will be surrounded by darkness within the casket. Kane tried to put Rey in the casket, but Rey fought him off. Kane landed another chokeslam, then a third in total. Kane followed with a Tombstone Piledriver planting Rey into the mat. Kane then dragged Rey across the ring, opened the casket, and there was The Undertaker. The crowd popped.

Kane freaked out, backed up, and Taker slowly sat up. He looked very aged sans make-up, selling the "vegetative state" bit. He looked very "Mean Mark" here. Taker stumbled into the ring like Frankenstein, still selling the effects, apparently. Taker stared at Kane, who smiled and told him it was Mysterio. Taker leaned down and gave Mysterio a message, with some coughing. He asked Rey why he did it. "I swear, I swear, it wasn't me," Rey quietly said. Taker said he believes him. He then grabbed Rey around the throat and pulled him up. Kane smiled in the background, not privy to the conference in the corner.

Taker did the throat slash toward Rey, then turned around and shot Kane "the look." Kane shook his head that he didn't do it. Taker did a Hogan point, then grabbed Kane around the throat. Kane met his grip, though, and grabbed Taker around the throat. The "brothers" had a struggle, then Kane overpowered Taker, who Striker noted has been in a vegetative state. Kane landed a Tombstone Piledriver on Taker to win this particular battle. His pyro shot off, then he took the World Title and walked off, leaving Taker in the ring struggling to collect himself. Kane did his maniacal laugh on the stage as the announcers suggested this confirms Kane took out Taker. Striker asked what revenge Taker will seek on Friday's Smackdown.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 16 2010, 01:15 pm
6 -- TEAM WWE vs. TEAM NEXUS -- Elimination tag match

After everyone settled down, Danielson and Darren Young started things off. Striker noted it's Daniel Bryan and Darren Young in the main event of Summerslam. Danielson slapped on an early Crossface and Young, the weak link in the group, tapped out less than one minute in. Hot start for Danielson. Team WWE started trading tags in and out as Cole continued to try to knock the Danielson decision. Morrison then hit Starship Pain on Michael Tarver and eliminated him at 3:34. Team WWE up 7-5.

Nexus regrouped on the outside and Wade Barrett talked them up trying to get their heads back in the game. Skip Sheffield was next in there for Nexus against Morrison. Skip dominated Morrison as the crowd chanted for Bret Hart. J-Mo then fought back, but Gabriel smashed Morrison from behind on the ring apron. Skip then nailed his signature clothesline to score a pin on Skip for the win. R-Truth was in next and Skip quickly eliminated him with another big clothesline. And they're even at 5-5.

Chris Jericho entered next and Sheffield tagged in Barrett, who worked on his NXT Pro. Good focus on Skip in this sequence. David Otunga then tagged in and worked on Jericho a bit before Nexus began tagging in and out. Jericho broke free and made his way to Bret Hart, who tagged in. Heath Slater also tagged in for Nexus. Hart looked sharp early with right hand punches, then some serious rapid-fire blows in a corner mount. Hart landed a punch to the gut, then a classic elbow. He followed with a scoop slam, then another classic elbow drop. Hart picked up Slater, then a classic atomic drop into a clothesline. Hart teased the Sharpshooter in front of Nexus, then a chair was suddenly slid into the ring. Hart picked it up and cracked the chair over Slater's back, prompting a DQ. Hart blamed Barrett for rolling the chair into the ring. The ref wouldn't take the excuse and Cena watched with concern as Hart walked out of the ring. Overall, strong performance from Hart. Well done.

They reset with Skip taking the Codebreaker from Jericho. Edge then measured Skip for the Spear and he connected. Skip is gone and they're even at four. Justin Gabriel tagged in next and Edge worked him over. Gabriel then came back with a step-up kick and made a cover for a nearfall. Slater was in next and he stomped away on Edge. Wade Barrett then tagged in and pounded on Edge, who took a beating for a few minutes. Edge broke free from Barrett with a kick to the head and Cena begged for a tag from the apron. Barrett cut him off with a neckbreaker, though, and Nexus resumed control. David Otunga begged for a piece of Edge and Otunga entered the ring. Otunga wanted his dominator finisher, but Edge countered with a faceplant.

Edge crawled over to his corner and tagged in Jericho, who came in fresh with offense for Otunga. Jericho landed a running bulldog, Otunga positioned himself, and Jericho landed a Lionsault across the ring. Jericho pumped the crowd, then slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Jericho nearly dropped the hold trying to apply it, but he re-synched it and Otunga tapped out at 19:15. WWE up 4-3 now. Slater was in next. Jericho took control, but then accidentally bumped Cena off the apron when Slater shoved him. Slater followed with his finisher on Jericho and he was gone at 20:05.

Edge and Cena proceeded to yell and scream at each other due to the Jericho situation. Edge shoved him, but Cena backed up to the ring apron to avoid a fight breaking out. Edge kept trying to yell at him, so Slater rolled up Edge and scored a pin at 20:40. Afterward, Edge and Jericho trash-talked Cena and beat him on the outside, blaming Cena for their eliminations. Cole proceeded to cut a promo on Daniel Bryan, with it down to Cena and Bryan vs. three Nexus members. Cena was rolled into the ring and Nexus began picking apart Cena. Cena then fought back and teased a comeback, but Barrett cut him off with a clothesline for a two count. Cena teased another comeback on Gabriel, but Gabriel cut him off. The crowd started a dueling chant of "Let's go Cena" and "Cena sucks" as Nexus continued to work on Cena, Cole continued to rip Bryan, and Bryan continued to look for a tag from the apron.

Cena made a comeback as Striker hyped Daniel wanting this opportunity to defend WWE. Cole said the entire future of WWE could be resting on Bryan's shoulders. Cena teased a tag to Bryan, but Nexus cut off Cena again. Cena then exploded out of the corner with a clothesline and Slater responded with a clothesline. After the double knock down, Cena teased another tag to Bryan and finally got the tag in. Bryan came in hot with flying offense on Slater, followed by a German Suplex. Bryan nailed a big dropkick before landing multiple kick strikes in the corner. Bryan then knocked down Slater, showed fire, and charged the ropes with a big flying suicide dive. Decent response from the audience thus far. The males chanted, "Daniel Bryan," as he re-entered the ring with a top rope missile dropkick on Slater. Daniel knocked the Nexus members off the ring apron. Slater then tried a roll-up, but Daniel rolled out into a Crossface. The crowd popped and Slater tapped at 29:00.

After the fall, Daniel called for one of the remaining two members of Nexus. The ref was occupied with Slater, though, and Miz stormed the ring with briefcase in hand. Miz blasted Daniel from behind with the MITB case and Barrett pinned Daniel for the elimination. There's your set up for Miz vs. Bryan on Raw. So, it's Cena vs. Barrett and Gabriel. Cena was selling on the outside, so Barrett rolled Cena back into the ring for Gabriel to go to work. Cena avoided a corner attack, though, and made his big comeback. Cena hit the sit-out slam, then set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena connected, then Barrett blind-tagged in from behind. Barrett pounded on Cena with right hand blows before kicking him in the head.

At 32:00, Barrett and Gabriel began trading tags in and out working on Cena. They're nearing the top of the hour and Barrett knocked Cena to the outside. Barrett and Gabriel then removed the ringside padding to expose the concrete on the floor. The crowd was "hushed" as Barrett slowly picked up Cena. Barrett smiled before executing a DDT on the floor. Barrett seemed to take the worst of it, coming up holding his back. Barrett then picked up Cena and rolled him back into the ring. Barrett placed Cena in the corner, then he tagged in Gabriel to hit the trademark 450 Splash. In came Brad Lidge for the close, but he blew the save with Cena moving out of the way. Cena then made the cover at 34:52 and Gabriel is gone. Barrett tried to come right in with a roll-up, but Cena countered into an STF. Barrett fought the hold, but he eventually tapped out, giving Cena the win for Team WWE.

Post-match: Cena held his head to continue selling before he came to his feet. They replayed high points from the match, including Bryan's big night. Of course, Cole blamed Bryan for getting himself eliminated. They cut back to Cena in the ring celebrating. Cena did the big "pump up the crowd" celebration before leaning on the ropes to celebrate the victory. They went off the air at 9:58 CST.

WINNERS: Team WWE at 35:18. Very strong main event that pushed the PPV to a very mild thumbs up. They established Daniel Bryan as a star in his return, showing off his offense and setting up a likely U.S. Title feud with The Miz. As for the booking, it was surprising to see WWE play the "Daniel Bryan return" card when they could have stretched it out longer. Also, it was curious booking to see Team WWE get the first win in the battle with Team Nexus. At this point in the PPV, they almost had to end with a babyface victory after Rey lost, Orton didn't win the WWE Title, and Dolph kept the IC Title. It will be very interesting to see how WWE gets Nexus's heat back after this. (****)

Order of Elimination:
(1) Darren Young via Danielson at 0:42.
(2) Michael Tarver via Morrison at 3:34.
(3) John Morrison via Sheffield at 7:31.
(4) R-Truth via Sheffield at 7:58.
(5) Bret Hart DQ'ed at 12:05.
(6) Skip Sheffield via Edge at 13:12.
(7) David Otunga via Jericho at 19:15.
(8) Chris Jericho via Slater at 20:05.
(9) Edge via Slater at 20:40.
(10) Slater via Danielson at 29:00.
(11) Danielson via Barrett (w/Miz assist) at 29:32.
(12) Gabriel via Cena at 34:52.
(13) Barrett via Cena at 35:18.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 18 2010, 02:07 am
WWE RAW Results: 8-16-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_43169.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. WADE BARRETT -- If Barrett loses, he's out of Nexus

The bell sounded and the crowd started a "Y2J" chant. Jericho then took the attack to Barrett early on. Cole recapped Daniel Bryan re-joining WWE last night at Summerslam and said they'll have more on that development later tonight. Wait for it, wait for it...wait, no promo from Cole on Bryan. Jericho went up top for a high-risk attack, but Barrett big-booted him off the top to the floor. Barrett pounded on Jericho, then took him back into the ring and slapped on a submission hold. Lawler noted the odd aspect of this match with the crowd cheering for Jericho, who made a comeback at 3:30. Lawler also noted if everyone on Nexus lost, the group would be wiped off the mat.

Jericho teased the Walls of Jericho, but Barrett countered with a leg whip. He tried to follow with his finisher, but Jericho rolled to the ground and slapped on the Walls of Jericho. Barrett made it to the bottom rope, through, for a break. Jericho complained to the ref, giving Barrett an opening for a big boot for a two count. Jericho then tried to come back with the codebreaker, but Barrett grabbed Jericho around the legs and pulled him into overhead slam position to execute his finisher. Barrett quickly made the cover for the win. They cut to the locker room to show Nexus nodding their approval with the victory. Barrett, holding his head, left the ring with a smile on his face as he stared back at Jericho in the ring.

WINNER: Barrett at 5:20 to remain leader of Nexus. Nice match. Barrett is definitely a star and Jericho helped make him look good during their five minutes in the ring. Good start to the WWE vs. Nexus individual matches. (*1/2)

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. MICHAEL TARVER -- If Tarver loses, he's out of Nexus

The crowd opened with "Daniel Bryan" chants. Cole cut a promo on Bryan, saying he spent ten years on the minor leagues. Lawler defended Cole that he headlined in front of 50,000 in Japan. Cole continued his anti-Bryan spiel as Bryan executed some strong offense on Tarver. Bryan landed kick strikes, then a rapid-fire series of kicks in the corner. Bryan then ducked underneath Tarver and executed a dropkick. He went up top and landed a double-foot missile dropkick before firing himself up. Suddenly, Miz and Alex Riley stormed ringside to taunt Bryan. Apparently that didn't count as outside interference. Tarver then rolled up Bryan from behind and scored a pin.

Post-match: Bryan came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive taking out Miz and Riley. Bryan pounded on Miz with right hands until Riley got from behind. Tarver tried to join in and Bryan fought him off. The numbers game caught up to Bryan and they rammed him into the guardrail. Miz then placed the MITB briefcase on the floor and he nailed the Skullcrushing Finale into the case. Miz and Riley talked trash and Bryan sold face-first on the mat. Cole, Miz, and Riley talked trash in various forms as Bryan sold to draw sympathy to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Tarver at 2:09. Good booking. Tarver won to push Nexus to 2-0 tonight, they got heat on Miz and Riley as a unit, Bryan got in some fired-up offense, they built up Bryan as a sympathetic figure, and set up a program with the audience ready to see him be the one to give Miz his comeuppance. (*)

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL -- If Gabriel loses, he's out of Nexus

They came face-to-face after the opening bell and Orton glared down at Gabriel, who shoved him in the chest. Gabriel landed a few kick strikes, but Orton began dominating the match. Orton was in control, ready to take it home, but, suddenly, WWE champion Sheamus showed up ringside. Orton rolled to the outside and they started fighting on the outside before taking it over the guardrail to the front row. The ref reached a ten count and Orton was counted out, giving Gabriel the win. Meanwhile, Orton and Sheamus continued to brawl among the fans. Roberts then announced Gabriel as the winner, giving Orton pause.

Orton, having taken out Sheamus, then charged the rung, spun Gabriel around, and dropped him with the RKO. Orton wasn't done, as he left the ring to find a chair to his liking. The crowd was hot for Orton, who blasted Sheamus over and over across the back with the chair. Refs tried to intervene as Orton shouted to let out his frustration from not winning the WWE Title at Summerslam. "Randy Orton has snapped here tonight," Lawler said. The crowd chanted his name as he rubbed his face on the way out. Orton then stopped and decided he wasn't done. Orton sprinted to the other side of the ring by the announcers and dropped Sheamus with an RKO on the padded floor. Orton pounded the announce table, shot a sinister grin to the crowd, and his music played. Orton looked at his hands and Cole said something at Summerslam sent him off. He posed on the entrance ramp to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Gabriel via count-out at 2:53. The needed emphasis was on Orton back on the WWE Title chase taking his game to the next level. Although these non-finishes are coming too frequently lately, this one served a bigger purpose. The crowd was hot for Orton, which really added to the segment. Meanwhile, Nexus goes to 3-0. Sure, it was no thanks to Gabriel's effort, but that fit the group being heels distorting the truth and the match story was more about Orton-Sheamus. (*)

4 -- R-TRUTH & JOHN MORRISON vs. DAVID OTUNGA & SKIP SHEFFIELD -- Otunga and Skip are out of Nexus if they lose

They cut to a shot of the Nexus watching things from backstage while licking their wounds from various matches earlier in the show. Cole and Lawler drew attention to the crawler on the bottom of the screen noting the "historic international tour" coming up this week, including a first-ever trip to China. Morrison took a hot tag from R-Truth and worked on Otunga. Skip blind-tagged in for Otunga, though, and clubbed Morrison from behind with a clothesline. Skip then wanted his big running clothesline and he connected center ring. Skip with the cover for the win. Backstage, Nexus nodded approvingly as Skip shouted to the camera, "It's my time." Skip and Otunga then stood tall in the ring before they replayed high points from the match. Cole announced Heath Slater has Edge tonight. Back to Skip and Otunga celebrating in the ring.

WINNERS: Skip & Otunga at 2:55. Smackdown is probably looking like a pretty good option for Morrison right now, unless this recent de-emphasis is part of a story to eventually rebuild him. Skip is certainly being built up as the next Dave Batista on the roster. They're limiting his exposure in the ring, which is a good thing, and just emphasizing the strengths of his character. And they kept Otunga in the background, which was safe for everyone involved. Fine booking as it relates to Nexus. (*)

5 -- GAIL KIM & EVE TORRES & Divas champion MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX & MARYSE & JILLIAN HALL

Gail and Maryse looked like they were having a legit fight to open things up, which set an aggressive tone for the match. The action proceeded to break down with Melina and Alicia brawling on the outside. Gail and Maryse took their fight to the outside as well. Back in the ring, Eve dropped Jillian in the corner and wanted a moonsault, but Jillian countered with a powerbomb from the second rope for the pin and the win. Afterward, Jillian celebrated a very rare win. Maryse and Alicia joined in the "celebration," which turned into more bickering amongst the heels.

WINNERS: Team Jillian at 2:50. Melina-Alicia continues, Gail-Maryse picks up, and they're apparently back at square one. Good energy from the Divas trying to audition for more TV time on Raw. (*)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 18 2010, 02:07 am
6 -- EDGE vs. HEATH SLATER -- If Slater loses, he's out of Nexus

Edge pounded on Slater with kicks and stomps in the corner before running to center ring to gauge the crowd reaction. The crowd was pro-Edge, but not nearly as behind Edge as they were for Jericho in the "heel playing a babyface" role. The match moved to the floor where Slater baited Edge into taking a dive into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Slater focused on the upper back that Slater softened up in the backstage segment pre-match. Edge fought back from his knees before Slater yanked him down to the mat by his hair. Edge made a comeback, but Slater cut him off with a modified spinebuster for a two count. The match moved to the corner, then to the floor where Edge ducked a clothesline and dropped Slater with a big boot.

On the floor, Edge slowly backed up to the guardrail and measured Slater for a spear as the referee applied a very fast ten count. Edge then went for the spear, but Slater ran into the ring to avoid the move. The ref reached ten and Edge was still standing on the floor, giving Slater a count-out win. Back in the ring, Slater celebrated, turned around, and Edge dropped him with a spear for the final word. Cole said Nexus is showing there's no hangover from Summerslam. Lawler said they've been lucky. Cole and Lawler gave a plug for Cena vs. Darren Young still to come.

WINNER: Slater via count-out at 4:31. Slater held his own in the ring as one of the better wrestlers in the group. It didn't make sense for Edge to lose clean here, so the finish made sense on paper. So many non-finishes, though, is adding up. Nexus has to be able to get on the mic to get heat distorting the truth on their wins because the audience won't buy them as a credible threat right now with the "lucky" wins combined with the loss at Summerslam. (*1/2)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. DARREN YOUNG -- If Young loses, he's out of Nexus

Lawler suggested there's an "uneasy feeling" hovering over the match due to Nexus being able to re-establish dominance tonight with all victories thus far. Lawler, as the babyface color commentator, should have noted that not all of the wins were due to Nexus's efforts, but because of extenuating circumstances. That wasn't brought up due to WWE needing to distort the truth to re-build the group as a threat in the eyes of the fans. Cena and Young exchanged holds early on as the audio picked up some mid-ring chatter talking through the match. The crowd started dueling chants of "Let's go Cena" and "Cena Sucks." Cena powered out of a chinlock and Lawler noted Cena can "seem like Superman" at times. Young methodically worked on Cena before chucking him to the floor. They reached the top of the hour with Young following Cena to the outside and ramming him head-first into the ring steps. Cole reset the show as they cut to a shot of Nexus standing on the stage watching intently. Young then dropkicked the ring steps into Cena and re-entered the ring. Ref Jack Doane did a very slow ten count, exposing the lack of consistency following the super-fast count during Edge vs. Slater. Doane reached nine, then Cena hopped up and baseball slid into the ring. Naturally, Cena started his big comeback routine and gritted his teeth to suggest he was just fine. Cena set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle and connected. Young then walked into the Attitude Adjustment, but Young elbowed out. He tried a sunset flip, but Cena countered into the STF. After a few moments, Young tapped out, giving Cena the win. Young is gone from Nexus.

WINNER: Cena at 7:58. Pretty much a repeat from Cena's Superman routine at Summerslam where he quickly recovered from a beating on the outside, did the full routine, and slapped on the STF for the win. It's pretty comical at this point, but WWE's PG audience eats it up. (*1/2)

Post-match: Nexus ran down to ringside to surround the ring. Cena looked around as Nexus collectively hopped onto the ring apron. Cena had a back-door exit out of the ring and he opted to take it. Cena hopped down to the floor and watched as Nexus stared back at him. Nexus then walked into the ring and circled Darren Young, who pulled himself up and apologized to Barrett. David Otunga then jumped Young from behind and they mauled him. Lawler slipped and called him Daniel Bryan. Cole didn't take the bait for a Bryan promo and focused on the beat down.

Nexus pounded on Young with forearms, leading to Skip hitting his trademark lariat. Barrett picked up jelly-legged Darren Young and dropped him with a big overhead slam. They dragged Young to the corner, then Gabriel was instructed to finish him off. Gabriel paused, then hit the big 450 splash. Gabriel stared down at Young, somewhat remorseful for having to take out a former member. Tarver put his hand on his shoulder, as if to say it was necessary. The six remaining members of Nexus then stood tall in the ring with the camera focused on Wade Barrett to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 19 2010, 12:32 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-17-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43193.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and eliminations.

Striker said most of the WWE wrestlers are on a tour of Asia, but they have sent in their absentee ballots. So, now the first elimination. They did the WWE Draft style rapid-fire picture slide before stopping on...Percy Watson. He's gone. They cut to a shot of MVP puzzled over this decision. Watson took the mic and said he can't be angry or bitter because he's worked hard to get to where he is. Watson gave a shout-out to MVP and said he's going to continue to have fun if you have the time. He closed with his catchphrase and Cole disingenuously said, "Very classy." Striker reminded the remaining Rookies there's one more elimination to come tonight.

1 -- JOE HENNIG (w/Kofi Kingston on the ring apron) vs. ZACK RYDER

Ryder tried to talk trash to Hennig to start the match, so Hennig answered with a clothesline. Ryder heeled it up by ducking his head underneath the corner turnbuckle to call for a "time-out." Cole said that immediately after this match, they'll re-visit Summerslam to focus on Rey Mysterio and Kane. Hennig landed another clothesline that knocked Ryder to the outside. Hennig tried a baseball slide, but Ryder yanked him to the outside and landed right hand blows. "Are you serious, bro?!" Ryder shouted. Back in the ring, Ryder dropped a knee for a two count. Ryder slowed things down working on Hennig as the announcers talked about their surprise that Percy was eliminated after he was in the middle of the pack last week.

Kingston shouted instructions at Hennig to watch Ryder's attack, giving Hennig an opening to make a comeback with a series of knock-down clotheslines and elbows. Hennig followed with a big corner splash, followed by right hand blows. The ref pulled Hennig off Ryder before he was DQ'ed, then Hennig followed up with a back body drop. Ryder then caught Hennig with a slingshot across the top rope and Ryder capitalized with the Rough Ryder to score the pin for the win. Kofi sold disdain on the loss before entering the ring to check on Hennig. Ryder celebrated on the way out as the announcers speculated on Hennig's future on NXT.

WINNER: Ryder in 5:00. Fine match. Ryder needed a win, even if it was against a Rookie, and they told a decent story on Hennig trying to impress if he's on the cut line for the second elimination. (*1/4)

2 -- KAVAL (w/Lay-Cool) vs. HUSKY HARRIS (w/Cody Rhodes)

Kaval tried an early submission hold, but Husky made it to the ropes for a break. Husky then knocked down Kaval with a clothesline for a two count. Harris played to the crowd to draw some heel heat before Kaval came back with a rolling heel kick. Cole actually popped for the kick strike. Kaval, with a bloody lip, landed more kick strikes into a springboard enziguiri kick for a two count. Kaval then rolled to the apron and went for a springboard kick, but Husky moved and followed with an aggressive belly-to-belly suplex. Husky then made a cover for a two count. Husky lost his place a bit and tried a power move, but Kaval countered with another kick strike before going up top. Kaval nailed the Warrior's Way double foot stomp and he scored the pin for the win. The crowd responded favorably, as did Lay-Cool with screams and shouts and shrieks. Lay-Cool then got Kaval out of the ring to celebrate as Cody checked on Husky.

WINNER: Kaval in 4:00. Another impressive in-ring showing from Kaval, whose offense is over. Husky also looked solid with his power/brawling offense, but there always seems to be one point in the match where Husky loses himself for a few seconds. He's on his way, though. (*1/2)

3 -- ALEX RILEY vs. KOFI KINGSTON (w/Michael McGillicutty)

Aggressive start to the match, with Riley taking control. He made a mistake going to the second rope for a double axehandle, which Kofi blocked with a kick. Kofi made a comeback with high-flying offense before warming up the crowd to hit the Boom Drop. Kofi called for the end and started doing his hand clap to set up the Trouble in Paradise, which Riley walked into. Kofi with the cover for the win. Cole then asked whether Riley's loss will hurt...or help him tonight facing elimination. How could a loss help? Mathews, playing up the animosity scripted into the show, called him on the comment. Cole replied, "Well, he was impressive." What's the purpose of having a match on this show? WWE's presentation is completely absurd at times.

WINNER: Kingston in 3:00. Short match. Dumb comment from Cole. Your typical NXT match. (*)

Ringside: Striker was with the four remaining Rookies - Kaval, Hennig, Riley, and Harris. As all four stood around awaiting the latest NXT Poll, Striker stretched things out by reminding everyone that the winner of Season Two will receive a PPV championship match. He also said the season finale will be in two weeks. No Rookie poll, as they went straight to the video game generator screen. After the pictures flashed across the screen, the generator stopped on...Husky Harris. Harris is gone. The crowd popped as Harris paced around ringside.

Harris yanked the mic from Striker, but Cody Rhodes talked first. "How dare you!" he shouted at no one in particular. Rhodes went down the line of Pros, telling them they're not real Pros. He stopped at Ryder to tell him good luck in his future endeavors. Rhodes told Layla she's too busy making out with the Rookies to be a Pro. Rhodes joined Harris on the stage and Harris said it's time to talk, but Cody cut him off and said he's got this.

Rhodes walked down to ringside to Alex Riley that Miz is awesome, but he's awful. Rhodes told Hennig the reason why he doesn't go by Mr. Perfect is because he doesn't deserve it. Rhodes then walked over to Kaval and kicked him in the gut. Husky and Cody tried to attack Kaval until MVP and Kofi stormed down to ringside to make the save.

Kofi and Harris suddenly picked up a fight before MVP, in street clothes, came off the apron with a forearm to the back. MVP and Kofi then rammed Harris into the guardrail. The crowd started cheering as the cameras tried to keep up with the action. Suddenly, Kaval was up top and he landed the Warrior's Way double foot stomp on Harris on the floor. Kaval did his classic bent-over pose glaring down at Harris.

Lay-Cool joined the scene checking on Kaval before screaming down at Harris that he doesn't mess with their Rookie. MVP and Kofi stood in-between Kaval and Harris, who recovered a little too soon. Husky glared back at MVP standing a few feet away from him - a great piece of manufactured TV - then he marched away from ringside to the stage. Cody joined Harris on stage and Riley waved him good-bye while Hennig talked trash to Harris. Cody and Harris stood on-stage calling out to everyone in the building and ringside, drawing good heat. They closed with Cody & Harris vs. everyone in Bakersfield.

Again, they saved the good stuff for the over-run. That was some great TV, especially Cody Rhodes's mic work in a "realistic situation" using his instincts to cut a promo. MVP taking charge of the situation was a good spot for him to be in looking like a top star via juxtaposition standing next to everyone else involved. So, with two episodes remaining, they're down to Kaval, Riley, and Hennig. No announcement on whether there will be an elimination next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 20 2010, 12:25 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 8-16-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10013587.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Jerry Lynn defeated Rhett Titus (w/Austin Aries) in 7:30. This match got started right after the opening video with Titus jumping Lynn before the bell. They brawled on the floor for a bit and came back in the ring. Titus controlled the match until Lynn hit an inverted DDT at 2:50.

Lynn continued to maintain the advantage until Aries grabbed his foot and Titus capitalized with the Muff Driver. Lynn got two with a rollup a bit later but Titus came back and got two with a weird-looking elbow drop. At 6:45, Lynn countered the Super Sex Factor into a swinging DDT for two.

Aries got up on the apron and Titus poked him in the eyes, then went for some sort of a crucifix powerbomb type of thing. Lynn countered into a sunset flip for the three count. As Lynn walked up the entranceway, Kenny King hit him from behind and he, Titus, and Aries beat down Lynn until Delirious made the save.

Joe's Judgment: That was absolutely awful. No heat, the crowd was dead, and Prazak and Hogewood were robotic on commentary. Plus there were several botches and it nearly put me to sleep. So, not a good way to start off tonight's show.

2. El Generico defeated Erick Stevens by DQ in 5:45. Stevens dominated for about a minute but Generico came back with his usual offense. Stevens hit a Samoan drop for two and worked a waistlock, then got two with a powerslam.

Generico hit some forearms and at 4:00 a Blue Thunder powerbomb. Stevens hit some Necro Butcher-esque chops and forearms in the corner and called for the Choo Choo but Generico hit a Yakuza and hung Stevens up in the Tree of Woe. He signaled for his flipping version of the Van Terminator when Steen and Corino ran out and beat on him with a chain until Colt Cabana made the save.

Joe's Judgment: This would have meant so much more if Stevens wasn't a glorified jobber. The run in DQs are getting old really fast by the way.

3. The House of Truth (Josh Raymond and Christin Able w/Truth Martini) defeated Mike Sydal and Aiden Chambers in 1:40. Sydal is the brother of former ROH and current WWE wrestler Evan Bourne, aka Matt Sydal. Bobby Cruise read a long introduction for Truth. Sydal hit a double crossbody but that was about all the offense the babyfaces got as the HOT won with their double-team finisher.

4. Roderick Strong defeated Davey Richards in 19:39. Strong went with a headlock and Davey backed him into the ropes and slapped him at 2:00. Dave Prazak went over their history in the No Remorse Corps. They exchanged holds and reversals for another couple minutes and Davey hit a leg lariat and sent Strong out to the floor at 5:00. Richards hit a running kick on the apron to Strong on the floor.

Richards continued with some stiff kicks on the floor before rolling Strong back in the ring. They exchanged forearms and Strong got the better of it, sending Richards to the floor where he chopped him a few times. Strong applied a reverse bearhug in the ring but Davey fought out.

At 8:15, Richards hit a diving headbutt and only got two. They went back to the floor and Strong hit a dropkick through the ropes and a backbreaker on the guardrail. At 11:00, Davey hit a bunch of slaps and then a handspring enzuigiri. Strong met Davey coming in for a running forearm with a big boot. Davey hit a missile dropkick for two.

Strong reversed a suplex and hit a gutbuster for two at 12:50. They fought on the apron and Davey hit some kind of an arm variation of a dragon screw and went to a Fujiwara armbar. Strong went for a powerbomb but Davey countered right back into the armbar.

Davey signaled for the shooting star press at 15:00 but Strong kicked him while he was on the top rope and then connected with a backbreaker onto the top turnbuckle. Strong went for the Stronghold but instead slingshotted Davey into the turnbuckle. The fans chanted for Davey as he hit a sunset flip powerbomb off the top.

Davey hit a sick running kick and a bridging German for two followed by a release German and a pin into another armbar. Strong got to the ropes and locked in the Stronghold. Davey reversed into a pin and Strong kicked out at two. Davey went for a lariat but Strong ducked and Davey hit Todd Sinclair. The crowd went crazy and chanted "Thank you Davey". Nice.

Shane Hagadorn walked out and held Strong for Davey. Davey pushed Strong aside and shoved Hagadorn off the apron. They argued and Davey turned around into a running boot from Strong, who covered for the pin. Strong celebrated with Truth Martini to close the show.

Joe's Judgment: Good match that would have been better if Strong had showed even the slightest interest in selling his arm. I mean, Davey kept going back to it and Strong never showed any effects except when Davey was physically attacking it. The finish was a bit weak, although I was expecting a time limit draw so I guess it's not a big change. Overall I'd probably put this behind their Chicago match and one they had in PWG in April, but ahead of their HDNet match earlier this year on a list of best Strong vs. Richards matches from this year.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 25 2010, 06:21 am
WWE Superstars Results: 8-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_43241.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. PRIMO COLON

The match opened with Primo scoring some offense, then he gloated to the crowd. Meanwhile, the announcers talked up the elimination match at Summerslam that went back and forth and ended with Team WWE defeating Nexus. Cole made an admission Daniel Bryan looked good during the match. Yoshi came back with a hard chop to the chest before executing an arm drag into an armbar. Cole still managed to work in the jabs on Bryan. Meanwhile, Yoshi knocked Primo to the outside before hitting a plancha on the outside. Yoshi rolled back into the ring to get his shine as they cut to break.

Back from break, Primo was in control working on Yoshi. Of note, it sounded like Cole was trying to experiment with his voice doing play-by-play, with a little more straightforward, single-breath approach. Yoshi made his comeback at 8:00 with a running knee strike. He tried to follow with a sweeping kick strike, but Primo ducked and school-boyed Yoshi for a two count. Yoshi then caught Primo with a kick to the side of the head before going up top for his signature spinning heel kick. Yoshi with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Yoshi in 10:00. Fine singles match delivering a dose of athleticism at times. But, with virtually everyone on the roster wrestling the same basic style, the match didn't really stand out. (*1/2)

2 -- MVP vs. VANCE ARCHER (w/Curt Hawkins)

MVP and Archer started with a basic standing exchange as the crowd chanted for MVP. MVP took Archer off his feet and landed a boot to the head before settling into an armbar. Grisham noted Archer's background as a quarterback at Texas State. Around these parts, it will always be known as Southwest Texas. Grisham said football didn't provide enough physicality for Archer. The match moved to the floor a few minutes in and chaos broke out when Hawkins tried to get involved. JTG then stormed ringside to back up MVP. JTG and MVP regrouped in the ring as the party-starters retreated on the outside. Teddy Long then stepped out and said since everyone wants to fight tonight, they should have a good old fashioned tag match. It's after the break.

2b -- MVP & JTG vs. VANCE ARCHER & CURT HAWKINS

Back from break, JTG and MVP were well in control of the situation working on Hawkins. Archer then tagged in and resumed his fight with MVP. Hawkins threw a brief interruption MVP's way, giving Archer an opening to land a big boot to the face. Archer and Hawkins traded tags working on MVP, then JTG took a hot tag. After JTG hit the Mug Shot for a nearfall, the action broke down with men fighting in and out of the ring. Archer then caught JTG in the corner and the party-starters combined for a combination powerslam on JTG. Archer with the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Hawkins & Archer in 4:00. Fine continuation of Archer and Hawkins's perceived rise to the top of the tag division looking for a title shot against Hart Dynasty. (*)

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Swagger started off with an amateur take down, then a paint brush of Masters's head. Masters took exception and told him to bring it. Grisham noted Swagger's rough summer as Masters landed a hard chop in the corner. Masters backed up for a charging Stinger Splash and he connected. Masters tried to follow with a running powerslam, but Swagger slipped out and rammed him shoulder-first into the ringpost. Swagger then went to work on the shoulder with mat holds as the announcers talked up Swagger's resume. Swagger then bounced off the ropes and walked into a sidewalk slam from Masters.

Masters landed a big boot, then moutned a comeback with clotheslines using his good arm. Masters followed with a spinebuster, but Swagger kicked out of a pin attempt. Masters then went to the second rope and hit a flying shoulder tackle. Masters wanted the Masterlock, but Swagger fought the hold, with Swagger struggling after the shoulder work. Swagger eventually countered into an anklelock center ring. Masters tried to grab the ropes, but Masters was forced to tap out, giving Swagger the win. They replayed the finish, then cut to Swagger staring back at Masters, who was selling the ankle work to close the show.

WINNER: Swagger via submission in 6:00. Brief TV main event, but it told a fine story in a match-up based on two signature submission holds. Swagger just needed a TV win. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 25 2010, 06:22 am
TNA Impact! Results: 8-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_43238.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)ROB TERRY vs. JEFF HARDY
World Title Tournament Match

How did Rob Terry go up in the rankings? Unless that means they did take out Abyss. That would be surprisingly rational. Hardy runs down and starts firing. He dropkicks out Terry's knee, but when he goes for a Cross Body Block Terry catches him and plants him with a Power Slam. Terry goozles Hardy. Hardy backs up to the middle rope, from which Terry yanks him down and half-way across the ring. Terry thrusts some shoulders, then whips Hardy across the ring. When he tries to follow him, Hardy drops him into the bottom turnbuckle with a Drop Toe Hold. He hits a couple delayed dropkicks, then Whisper in the Wind. He comes off the middle rope for something, but this time runs right into a clothesline from Terry. Terry "hits" his spin kick, missing by a visible amount. He does it again, and this time connects. Terry looks for a Running Power Slam, but Hardy slips out and nails a Twist of Fate. He hits the Swanton (catching Terry with his legs this time) for game.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy in 4 minutes.

(2)JAY LETHAL vs. MR. KENNEDY

Is this the 2 vs. 7 match? How did Lethal drop to 7? Or maybe 3 vs. 6? Or are the brackets totally random? They lock up to start. Anderson takes over with a side headlock. Lethal shoots him off, but he comes back with a shoulder block. Lethal shoots him off again, but when he tries to follow up Anderson catches him in a Fireman's Carry. Lethal slips out and shoves Anderson into the ropes. Anderson catches himself, so Lethal handsprings back. Anderson charges. Lethal looks for a Lethal Combo, but Anderson elbows him off. Anderson goes for an early Mic Check, but Lethal throws him off with a Snapmare. They share a stare-down. The crowd is fairly split. Lethal gets a side headlock. Anderson shoots him off and goes for an Arm Drag, but Lethal lands on his feet, knocks him down, and cartwheels into a dropkick for two. Lethal tries to shoot Anderson into the corner, but it's reversed. Lethal then tries to float over, but that in turn is reversed by the Green Bay Plunge for two. Anderson shoots Lethal into a back elbow for two. He cinches in a front chancery, but Lethal powers him into an Inverted Atomic Drop. Lethal then runs right into a big clothesline for 2. Lethal ducks a second attempted clothesline and hits a Handspring Elbow. He slams Anderson's head into the corner turnbuckle. He charges right into a Back Body Drop, but lands on the apron. He slugs Anderson and tries to come in with a Slingshot Dropkick. Anderson sidesteps and nails the Mic Check for the win.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson in 5 minutes. That was pretty good, but never really kicked into top gear. Also, I was pulling for Lethal, as a Lethal main event at BFG would have been a more interesting possibility than an Anderson main event.

(3)ANGELINA LOVE (c) (w/VELVET SKY) vs. MADISON RAYNE (w/MOTORCYCLE LADY)
Knockouts Championship Match

Oddly enough, Sky goes after Rayne as Love goes for Motorcycle Lady. Love is about to take off her helmet when Rayne finishes with Sky and pulls her into the ring. She hits her between-the-legs face smash thing, but a cover only gets two. She hits a couple of knees, but when she goes for a Neck Breaker it's reversed into Love's modified Stunner. Love gets up swinging. She hits a front Power Slam, but Motorcycle Lady grabs her before she can follow up. Sky then pulls off Motorcycle Lady and grabs Rayne, who turns around right into the Botox Injection. That's enough for three.

WINNER: Angelina Love in a bit under 3 minutes. Again the women's title gets short shrift. Remember when Kim-Kong main-evented a big Impact?

(4)DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. KURT ANGLE
World Title Tournament Match

Interesting fact—I suggested this match to people when we were at a live show. Angle takes down Williams with a headlock. Williams powers to his feet and backs Angle into the corner. He goes for a cheap shot but Angle blocks it. He whips Angle into the corner. Angle tries to get a leg up, but Williams catches it, drapes it over the rope, and kicks it. Angle gets up firing, but Williams flings him out of the ring. Willaims brings him back in and drops his knee onto Angle's face three times. Angle gets a foot on the bottom rope. Angle gets up firing again, but Williams stops him with a European Uppercut and takes him over with a Gut Wrench Suplex for two. Williams works a standing neck vise, but Angle quickly flings him off and hits a series of forearms. He Back Body Drops Williams and takes him into the corner. Williams gets a boot up, but then runs right into an Overhead Belly-to-Belly Suplex for two. Angle goes for a German, but Williams tosses him into the corner and hits a high knee. He goes to the top rope, and hits a European Uppercut off the top for a long two count. Williams goes for a German Suplex, but Kurt gets a standing switch and nails three of his own. A cover gets two. Kurt drops the straps. He goes for the Olympic Slam, but Williams slips out. Williams runs him into the corner turnbuckle and nails the roll-up to start the Chaos Theory, but before he can hit the Suplex part Angle stops his momentum and picks an ankle. He quickly grapevines the leg and gets the tap out.

WINNER: Kurt Angle in six minutes. That was very good, but these two really need more than six minutes to build something special.

(5)MATT MORGAN vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINER

If I had my way, Pope would win this whole thing. I have to admit that the people answering rankings poll do not seem to agree. Incidentally, not that I mind, but what did Pope do that justified him leap-frogging Hernandez? Pope nails a forearm to start. He ducks a clothesline and hits another. He ducks a couple more punches, so Morgan just shoves him into the corner. Pope sidesteps again and beats Morgan down in the corner. He hits his beautiful hesitation elbow, curtseys to the crowd, then goes for a cover that gets none. He goes to the top rope, but leaps right into a goozle. He slips out of that, but gets floored by a Decapitator Clothesline. Morgan takes him into the corner for a choke, some back elbows, and a big charge. Morgan lifts Pope up, but then decides it's not time and just drops Pope. The crowd comes alive for him. He crawls up in the corner. Morgan charges, but Pope gets a boot up. Pope goes to the top rope and comes off with a Sunset Flip, but Morgan keeps himself from going over and grabs Pope by the throat. He hits a Two-Handed Choke Slam, but trash talks instead of going for the cover. Pope pulls himself up by the ropes, so Morgan hits his float over leg choke. Pope rolls to the outside. Morgan follows him out and shoves him against the apron. Pope is against the corner ring post. Morgan looks for the Carbon Foorprint against the ring post. Pope quickly sidesteps and nails the DDE out of nowhere. He yanks Morgan into the ring and gets a cover. Morgan grabs the rope before one, but Pope pulls his hand away before the ref sees it.

WINNER: D'Angelo Dinero in 7 minutes. He'll be ready for the big win in October, if they're ready to give it to him.

(6)AJ STYLES vs. TOMMY DREAMER

The crowd is behind AJ to start at least 70-30. AJ hits a quick round kick to Dreamer's left knee. Dreamer catches the next kick attack and knocks AJ down. AJ shoots Dreamer into the ropes, but he catches himself. AJ charges, and Dreamer elevates him over the rope and onto the floor. Dreamer goes to the apron and hits a running somersault onto AJ. He bangs AJ into the barricade and then Body Slams him into the mat. He takes AJ back into the ring, where AJ quickly retakes control with an eye poke. AJ hits some chops in the corner. Dreamer reverses a whip into the opposite corner; AJ tries to float over, but Dreamer catches him in a Power Slam. Dreamer nails a T-Bone Suplex, but AJ gets his foot on the rope at 2. AJ hits a chop to the throat as he gets up, then a standing Ensuguri. AJ rains down punches, and Dreamer is busted open. AJ hits a Body Slam and his high knee drop. He punches Dreamer in the head and chokes him against the middle rope. He informs us that he's going to kill Tommy. Tommy gets a Sunset Flip for two, but AJ takes him down with a high dropkick as he gets back up. Dreamer looks out, so AJ naturally goes for a chin lock. Huh? Dreamer powers out with a Back Drop. Dreamer's dangling something that might be a band-aid but might also be skin. AJ nails the Pele as he gets up. He goes to the apron, then lets Dreamer get up for the Flying Forearm. Dreamer blocks it with an Inverted Atomic Drop and nails a DDT. Fortune start to come down to the ring, but they're ambushed by EV 2.0. While the ref is trying to get rid of all of them Abyss comes out from under the ring and nails a Black Hole Slam. Referee Earl Hebner turns around just as AJ gets the cover for three.

WINNER: AJ Styles in 7 minutes. Dreamer looked really good here, though that might just have been AJ's magic.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 25 2010, 06:23 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_43266.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Forearm by Kofi after a tie-up sent Ziggler immediately to ringside. Back in the ring, Ziggler took over, slamming Kofi’s head off the mat and getting a one-count from it. Neck-breaker by Dolph for two. Grisham wondered aloud how much damage Nexus did to Kingston last Sunday. Guerrero grabbed Kofi’s leg when he was near the ropes, and Ziggler ambushed him with a running forearm, sending Kofi through the ropes and to the outside. They went to break a little under 3:00 into the match.

Back with Ziggler controlling Kingston with, what else, a chin-lock. Kingston came back with a jaw-breaker. However, he couldn’t capitalize and Ziggler splashed his foe in the corner. “Vickie Guerrero puts Megan Fox to shame,” said Striker. I’m convinced he tries every week to come up with the biggest lie or most ridiculous statement and sell it with a straight face. Kingston was slammed in the corner for another two-count. Ziggler then went to work on the arm. A second splash in the corner did not find the mark. Unique roll-up for two by Kofi. Double chop to the chest and a high dropkick. Thesz Press and he fired away with rights. He was going for the Boom Drop but Ziggler rolled out of the way. Kofi went to the top after his flip kick in the corner, but Vickie got on the apron and shoved him off in full sight of referee “Goose” Mahoney. That drew the disqualification.

WINNER: Kingston, via DQ, at 8:45. Not a particularly inspired effort here.

Ziggler tried to continue the assault, but Kingston knew it was coming and they went to the outside. Ziggler ran away while Vickie blocked Kingston’s route, screaming the entire time. They she got confident, saying Kingston couldn’t hit her anyway. From behind, Ziggler attacked Kofi and stomped away at him. In the ring, Zig Zag from Ziggler. As soon as Kingston sat up, Ziggler locked in the sleeper hold. Ziggler looked as if he was done, but then went back for some more. He lifted his boot over Kofi’s head and held it there a while before bringing it down hard on Kingston’s jaw. They replayed the finish of the match and parts of Ziggler’s post-match attack.

2 – SERENA & LUKE GALLOWS vs. KELLY KELLY & THE BIG SHOW

The announcers noted that this was Serena’s first match in WWE. Gallows found Show immoveable to start, so he immediately went to Serena and tagged her in. Kelly Kelly whipped Serena in to the buckle and tried her cartwheel elbow, but Serena knocked her with an elbow in the back of Kelly’s head. Knees to the back by Serena. Kelly got out of a hold with a jaw-breaker. Serena missed a splash and a Thesz Press by Kelly ensued. Headscissors take-down. X Factor by Kelly, but Gallows pulled her off on a pin attempt. Show plowed him over and sent it to ringside where the two big men battled. Kelly went for the K2, but Serena turned it into a gut-buster for the win.

WINNERS: Serena and Gallows, at 3:07. A good idea to keep Serena and Kelly in that for most of it, actually. Action was okay.

3 – CHRISTIAN vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Before the match, Cody Rhodes walked out in a suit. He took a look at himself in his mirror on the Titan-Tron. The bell rang to start the match before Rhodes had walked to ringside. He eventually joined the commentators at ringside. Hurricanrana from Christian, then McIntyre ran to ringside and slammed his hands on the announce desk in anger. McIntyre pulled Christian off the apron when Christian came after him, then threw over the barricade and into where the announcers sit. Christian stood on the top of the barricade to jump onto McIntyre, but McIntyre pulled him down and his arm went over the exposed metal of the barricade. McIntyre went into the ring to break the count and Drew threatened to snap Christian’s arm. Mac whipped Christian’s arm into the ring post. Back in the ring, McIntyre got a two-count. Key-lock by McIntyre on Christian, but he tried to elbow out of it. McIntyre lifted him up and slammed him onto the mat. Christian was half out of the ring in terrible pain, holding his arm, as they went to break.

McIntyre was still working on the arm out of break. Christian tried to get to the ropes to get away from McIntyre’s onslaught. It didn’t work too well. McIntyre put his foot in Christian’s back and pulled back on the arm. Christian jumped off the middle rope and DDT’d McIntyre, who was standing in the ring. That looked absolutely vicious. Christian continued his comeback and backed McIntyre into the corner, then fired away with right hands. Running dropkick to the face of a seated McIntyre. That was a beauty, too. Striker said that Orlando Bloom was mistaken for McIntyre on a flight recently. Dropkick off the top for two by Christian. Rhodes was being very understated on commentary. To the middle rope, his jumping European uppercut missed. Codebreaker on the arm by McIntyre, and he got a two-count off of it. Christian got up and tried a Killswitch, but it hurt his shoulder. McIntyre had Christian up for a powerslam, but Christian turned it into a crucifix pin and pulled out the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 12:26. Really solid match, especially after the break.

After the match, Rhodes and McIntyre cornered Christian and went on the attack. Matt Hardy ran out to even the odds. He had a boot on his foot and while he got the advantage at first, McIntyre stepped on his foot to stop his momentum. McIntyre gave the Future Shock to Hardy. Cross-Rhodes then on Christian.

4 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO

Del Rio started things off with a hard kick to Mysterio. Del Rio missed a corner charge and was taken down with a headscissors. Then he missed a dive and went over the top and to the outside. He regrouped out there as they went to break.

Mysterio was pounding on Del Rio in the corner upon return. Del Rio took things to the outside and stood on Rey’s arm as it was draped across the steel steps. Del Rio worked the arm in the ring, but Mysterio came back with kicks. Enziguiri by Del Rio put Rey back down, and a replay revealed it connected with the shoulder of Mysterio. To the top, he missed a back splash. Rey fought with Del Rio, who had gotten to his knees. Kick to the back of the head for a two count. Mysterio set up for a 619, but Del Rio caught him. He tried to flip Rey into the corner, but Rey landed on the turnbuckle and put Del Rio down. He went to the top, but Del Rio tripped him up. Both men were down. Nice cross arm-breaker applied by Del Rio, and he picked up the submission victory. Crowd did not like this result.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 10:04. WWE did Del Rio a favor by putting him in the ring with Mysterio, who can make a lot of people look good.

Del Rio applied the move again after the match, and his personal ring announcer announced him as the winner. He celebrated on the top of the ramp as Grisham asked what the future holds for Smackdown’s newest superstar.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 25 2010, 06:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 8-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_43321.shtml) or check out my TOKYOPOP blog for results since the report exceeds maximum allowed length of 10000 characters.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2010, 12:00 pm
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 8-23-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10013715.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Briscoe Brothers defeated Bobby Shields and Alex Anthony in 5:01. The crowd was absolutely dead silent as Shields held a headscissors on Mark Briscoe. The Briscoes continued to dominate and got two on Shields with a elbow drop sideslam combination. Jay then hit the Jaydriller on Anthony and a Doomsday Device on Shields for the win.

Joe's Judgment: Don't let the length fool you, this match was not all that competitive. The crowd popped a little for a few spots but overall was just completely dead.

2. Kevin Steen (w/Steve Corino) defeated Jerry Lynn in 12:37. Lynn got a couple armdrags and Steen dropped to the floor to converse with Corino. Lynn hit a headscissors and was immediately tripped up by Corino. Todd Sinclair kicked Corino out of ringside and Lynn got a rollup on Steen while he was protesting but Steen kicked out at two.

At 7:00, Lynn hit a rolling eye poke and then rolled Steen up for two. Steen countered the Package Piledriver into a Sharpshooter which Lynn countered into a rollup for another two count. Steen hit a Codebreaker and his pump handle neckbreaker over the knee.

Steen went up top but Lynn followed and hit a huracanrana and followed with a TKO for another nearfall. Steen hit a powerbomb and transitioned it into a Sharpshooter but Lynn made it to the ropes. Lynn got another two count at 10:20 with a top rope powerbomb.

Steen got to his feet first and hit an Alabama Slam and went for the Swanton again but Lynn got his knees up. Steen rolled to the floor and Lynn hit a swinging DDT on him there. Lynn put Steen back in the ring and went up to the top, but Rhett Titus ran out and Lynn crossbodied him instead. Shortly thereafter, Steen sat down on a sunset flip and grabbed the middle rope for the three count. Titus celebrated at ringside

Joe's Judgment: The match was pretty good. The finish was mind-numbingly bad. First, the Aries/ANX vs. Lynn feud is done. Second, why can't Steen go over Lynn clean? Does Lynn really need to be protected? For that matter, does losing to Steen after twelve and a half minutes really make Lynn look bad at all? Just an awful, awful finish to what had been a very good match.

3. The Embassy (Erick Stevens, Shawn Daivari, Necro Butcher, and Ernie Osiris w/Prince Nana) defeated Rasche Brown, the Dark City Fight Club (Jon Davis and Kory Chavis), and Grizzly Redwood in 10:36. Osiris started the match for the Embassy and Chavis beat him down for a bit, then tagged in Grizzly. Grizzly got the upper hand on Osiris and the Embassy went to the floor to converse with Nana, but Brown threw Grizzly onto all four of them.

Stevens tagged in and dominated Grizzly for a while, the highlight being throwing him into a Necro punch on the outside. Grizzly tried to make a hot tag at 8:00, but the Embassy knocked all the babyfaces off the apron. Stevens continued to dominate Grizzly, who finally made the hot tag and everything broke down.

It looked like Paul Turner was going to call the match as all eight men brawled inside the ring, but the babyfaces Irish whipped all four Embassy members into each other and then all of them ganged up on Necro. Eventually everyone except Rasche was at ringside and Rasche dove onto everyone.

The finish came when Daivari and Chavis were in the ring and Nana gave Chavis a low blow from behind, allowing Daivari to roll Chavis up with a school boy for the pin. The Embassy celebrated up the ramp and a video announced Tyler Black vs. Steve Corino for next week to close the show.

Joe's Judgment: The crowd was hotter for the big brawl part of that match than anything else on tonight's show. In fairness, the heat segment was really well done and it built to a pretty satisfying brawl, but I just don't care about the Embassy or any of the guys they're feuding with. Apparently some people do, though, so whatever. Maybe if they would win clean once in a while I might get interested.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 26 2010, 12:01 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-24-10

Result courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article10013741.shtml) Condensed here to the only match that took place and it did not involve any NXT rookies.

1. Cody Rhodes defeated MVP in 23:58. MVP worked on the shoulder of Rhodes and scored a nearfall after a suplex and float over into a cover. MVP closelined Cody to the floor. He then slingshot himself into a high cross body on Cody...

Cody was in control coming back from the break. MVP came back though and scored a nearfall with a closeline. Cole and Mathews argued about wrestling websites. Cole said "wrestling dirt sheets" are always wrong.

The match just became back and forth with no extended selling of anything. Many, many nearfalls but none of them were believable. Cody locked in a crossface and the show went to commercial again...

Rhodes hit a huge dropkick coming out of the break for a two count. Cody locked a leg scissors around MVP's head. MVP stood up and hit an electric chair. Two more nearfalls.

Both men fought to the top rope. Cody hit a superplex and MVP was still able to kick out. Cody locked in a modified surfboard into a neckbreaker submission. MVP fought out, hit a closeline, and both men were down.

MVP hit the ballin' elbow. He went for the play of the day, but Cody hit an Alabama slam. Cody then hit Cross Rhodes and scored the clean pinfall victory...

Twill's Two Cents: Long match. Good match. Not a great match. The ebb and flow and changes in control during the match were not horribly smooth, nor were the nearfalls believable. However, the action was solid and it was a nice, long main event between two veteran guys.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2010, 02:08 am
WWE Superstars results: 8-26-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_43387.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GOLDUST vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal and Goldust locked up as Cole talked up the Six-Pack Challenge match booked for Night of Champions. Again, he came across disingenuous promoting the match since he's a heel some of the time. Regal worked over Goldust, who Cole mocked. Cole called him a "goof" wearing his outfit. "Come on, it's been about a decade now," he said. Regal knocked Goldust to the outside and they cut to a break.

Back from break, Goldust suplexed Regal off the apron back into the ring. Cole said he can't believe they're celebrating the 900th episode of Raw this Monday. Goldust lambasted Regal with right hands, then Regal begged off from his knees. Goldust polled the crowd, then stomped on Regal's hand. Regal came back with a clothesline, though, and sold the injured hand. Regal transitioned into using his knee for a knee drop to score a nearfall. Regal then settled into a reverse chinlock wearing down Goldust as Cole noted he looks better without the face paint.

Goldust came to his feet and they traded bombs, with Goldust getting the better of Regal with an uppercut and running clotheslines. Goldust hit a bulldog, then made a cover for a two count. Cole called it an "important match-up here on Superstars." Suddenly, Regal came out of nowhere with a running knee smash to the face in of the corner. Goldust was KO'ed and Regal made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Regal in 11:00. Good, solid TV match between two experienced veterans. Regal picked up a good win, for once, and Goldust looked sharp on offense. There's value in using them in separate programs working with younger wrestlers that are built-up and given TV attention on Raw, e.g. Goldust pushing Sheamus on ECW. (**)

2 -- VANCE ARCHER & CURT HAWKINS vs. DUDEBUSTERS (TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT)

Striker suggested there is actually a formula to determine who's next in line for a tag title shot based on victories, quality of opponents, and degree of difficulty. It certainly would be useful if that was a reality and didn't just exist in Striker's mind. Dudebusters worked from underneath as Leather & Hair worked them over using a size and speed combination. Barreta made a spirited comeback and tried to knock down Archer, who absorbed punishment before being taken off his feet with a springboard missile dropkick. Hawkins broke up a pin and the action broke down. The action settled down when Archer attempted a clothesline on Barreta. Archer tried to follow with a standing Black Hole Slam, but Barreta countered into a run-the-ropes swinging DDT center ring. Barreta made the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Dudebusters in 5:00. Fine match creating more tension among the remaining tag teams in WWE to set up who might be next in line for a tag title shot at Night of Champions. (*1/4)

3 -- DREW MCINTYTRE vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Masters bounced out to the ring after the break and McIntyre met him with a great, heelish "I'm not buying the flexing facade" look. McIntyre leaned against the ropes waiting for Masters to finish showing off, then the bell sounded to begin the match. Striker threw out the over-used "evolving" word to describe McIntyre's in-ring style changing as he's gained more experience in the ring. Masters teased the Masterlock one minute in, and McIntyre grabbed the ropes for a break. Masters smashed Mac with forearms in the corner, then came off the second rope with a flying shoulder tackle. He clotheslined McIntyre over the top rope to the floor and Mac bumped his head on the announce table. Striker said they spend a lot of time talking up Mac and Cody Rhodes, but what about Masters?

Masters followed on the outside with an attempted powerslam, but Mac slipped out and ran Masters into the ringpost. McIntyre then smashed Masters's shin into the ringpost to pick a body part to work over. Masters avoided a ten count re-entering the ring,then Mac went to work on the left leg and shin to cut off Masters. Striker talked up Masters's "muscle mass" as Mac continued to wear down the left leg with submission holds. McIntyre remained in control as they cut to a break.

Back in the arena, Mac was still working over Masters's lower left leg as Masters sold agony from the pain. MacIntyre posed for the fans and cockily proclaimed, "All day long." McIntyre then applied a spinning toe hold to continue working the leg. Masters finally got some breathing room flinging Mac to the outside. Mac frustratingly ran back into the ring and Masters answered with a desperation Samoan Drop. Masters pulled himself to his feet and fought back with his good leg before making his comeback. Masters hit a spinebuster, sold the leg, paused, and made a cover for a two count. They reversed control against the ropes and McIntyre landed a neckbreaker for another nearfall.

Mac yanked down Masters's knee pad and stomped on the patella. McIntyre teased the Future Shock, but Masters countered into a small package for a two count. Mac then charged off the ropes and Masters responded with a powerslam. Masters hobbled to his feet and teased the Masterlock, but McIntyre dragged them through the ropes to the outside. Masters re-applied, but Mac pushed them hard into the guardrail, with Masters eating the guardrail. Back in the ring, Mac stomped the knee and nailed the Future Shock DDT center ring. McIntyre with the pin for the win. After a replay of the highspots from the match, the show concluded with a close-up shot of a confident McIntyre celebrating the victory with a smirk for the crowd.

WINNER: McIntyre in 15:00. That was a strong TV match. Good showing for McIntyre. They continue to get sympathy on Masters rather than just presenting him as a one-dimensional babyface, so it's a sign, at least anecdotally, they might actually have plans for Masters beyond the Smackdown cameo and occasional match on Thursday nights. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2010, 02:09 am
TNA Impact! Results: 8-26-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_43385.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1)ORLANDO JORDAN vs. SAMOA JOE

Joe hits some quick jabs to start. Jordan falls back into the corner, where Joe stomps a mud-hole into him. He whips Jordan into the opposite corner, charges into him, and hits his version of a Pele. Joe goes for a Kokido Clutch, but Jordan backs him into the corner and slithers sensually. While Joe's distracted Jordan whacks him in the head with an elbow. He hits a series of stomps and punches. Joe falls back into a corner. Jordan hits some mounted punches. He grabs a chain with Joe's action figure and licks it. Joe takes him down with an Inverted Atomic Drop off the top rope. He hits a series of clotheslines and a T-Bone Suplex. Joe sets Jordan on the top rope, hits the Muscle Buster, and gets the three count.

WINNER: Samoa Joe in about 2 minutes.

(2)KEVIN NASH vs. JEFF JARRETT

Nash slides a chair into the ring. Jarrett steps on it to keep Nash from picking it up, but that lets Kevin pull Jarrett to the outside. He whips him into the guard rail, and Jarrett goes into the front row. He pulls Jarrett back and slams his head against the apron a couple times. They go back into the ring. Nash floors Jarrett twice with straight right hands, then works him over in the corners with knees to the gut. Nash hits a couple elbows to the side of Jarrett's head. Nash gets the chair and lays it in the middle of the ring. He drops the straps, but referee Brian Hebner gets rid of the chair. While Hebner's back is turned, Nash exposes the steel turnbuckle. He looks for a Snake Eyes, but Jarrett slips out and shoves Nash into it. The crowd is dead. Jarrett steps on Nash against the ropes. He hits a double sledge off the top, but when he goes for a second he gets goozled. Jarrett tries to get away with elbows, so Nash shoves him back first into the exposed steel ring turnbuckle. Jarrett falls into a Choke Slam for 1, 2...no! Jeff ducks a clothesline and goes Princess Bride on Nash, jumping on his back and choking him. Nash backs him into the turnbuckle, but the ref gets between them and the steel and takes the brunt of the damage. Jarrett drives Nash's head into the turnbuckle, then hits the Stroke. There's no ref to make the count though. Sting runs down in red face-paint and nails Jarrett a couple times with the baseball bat. Nash rolls into the cover just as Hebner comes to, and Jarrett's down for 3.

WINNER: Kevin Nash in 6 minutes. This was easily the best WCW Nitro main event I've seen in ages.

(3) THE FBI vs. BEER MONEY

If either Fortune or EV 2.0 interfere they'll be fired. Storm nails a Back Stabber on Tony Mamaluke, who falls into a clothesline from Roode. Little Guido's in now, eating a Superkick. Roode comes in, knocks Mamaluke off the apron, and nails a Full Nelson Slam on Guido. Guido gets a quick Small Package for two, then makes the tag. Tony Mamaluke flies in off the top rope, but right into a Spine Buster. Storm tags in and hits the DWI for the win.

WINNER: Beer Money in under 2 minutes.

Guido continues the fight after the bell, so Storm breaks a beer bottle on his head. Roode picks Mamaluke up for a Last Call Superkick. Storm busts open Guido, then they hit a mean DWI on him.

(4)THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. GENERATION ME
Non-Title Match

Sabin and Jeremy lock up to start. Jeremy goes for a quick roll up, but doesn't get one. He tries to shoulder block Sabin down, but Sabin stays on his feet and hits one of his own. Jeremy gets a Mahistrol Cradle for one. Max tags in, and they hit stereo dropkicks to Sabin. Shelley breaks the cover up right away. He tags in, and they hit their Front Face Lock Drop Kick on Max. Shelley kicks Max in the gut and hits a Body Slam. After some struggling, Shelley gets Max into a cool Single Leg Boston Crab/Lion Tamer, but Max gets to the ropes right away. Sabin tags in, and he nails a Shelton Benjami-style Leap-frog Arm Breaker. He drives Max's head into Shelley's boot, then tags Shelley in. A couple of quick covers get two. Max tries to reach for a tag, but Shelley stands on his hand. He cinches in a sort of neck vise. Max starts to power out, so Shelley tags in Sabin, who comes in with a Springboard Double Axe Handle. Sabin charges Max in the corner, but eats an elbow. Shelley charges and gets elevated out and onto the floor. Max wants to tag out, but Sabin grabs his leg. Sabin tries to transition into a German Suplex, but Max reverses into a Victory Roll into a tag. Jeremy comes in firing. Shelley kicks him from the outside and tries to hold him, but he fights out. He goes to the apron and hits a crazy Slingshot Facebuster that drives Sabin's head vertically into the mat for a long two. Sabin rolls to the outside. Both Guns are on the outside, so Max flies out with a flying Baseball Slide. Jeremy then elevates Max a bit so he can in turn catapult Jeremy onto the top rope, where he somehow turns 180 degrees and hits an Asai Moonsault. Holy shit. Sabin comes back in. Max Spears him, then nails a Standing Moonsault as Jeremy simultaneously comes in with a Slingshot Frog Splash. Shelley is back up on the apron, so Jeremy flips upside down as if to hit a Hurricanra, but then Max runs up his back and kicks Shelley in the head. Max hits an Oklahoma Roll. Jeremy goes for a 450 Splash, but Sabin gets his knees up. Sabin then holds Jeremy in place while an unsuspecting Max follows up with a Moonsault and ends up hitting his brother. The crowd is going ballistic by now. Shelley is back, and he nails a standing Sliced Bread #2 on Max. They hit Skull & Bones on Jeremy, and that's it.

WINNERS: Motor City Machine Guns in 7 minutes, but with action packed tightly enough to make it seem like 25. Holy shit that was great. After the match the Guns raise Generation Me's hands.

5)MR. ANDERSON, "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO, JEFF HARDY, & KURT ANGLE vs. MATT MORGAN, DOUGLAS WILLIAMS, AJ STYLES & KAZARIAN
8-man Tag Match

Anderson and Kazarian lock up to start, then trade wrist locks. Kazarian slaps Anderson in the face and gets a side head lock. He comes off the ropes with a shoulder block, but then walks into an Arm Drag. Anderson follows up with a Body Slam and a slap, then tags in Pope. Kazarian rakes the eyes and tags in AJ. AJ hits a running forearm, but then walks into a forearm from Pope. Pope jukes and jives into some elbows, then hits a big right hand for two. AJ backs Pope into his corner, where he gets quadruple-teamed. Fortune quickly tag in and out, hitting Pope as they go. AJ ends up back in there with Pope. He Snapmares him down and kicks him in the back. He tags in Morgan. Pope slips out of his grasp, but doesn't go for the tag. Morgan signals that he wants Hardy though, so Pope obliges. Morgan is amused by the height difference. Jeff gets a waistlock from behind, but Morgan elbows him off. Morgan corners Hardy, but whiffs on a charge. Hardy beats down Morgan in the corner, nailing the delayed dropkick. He hits a running forearm, but AJ catches his leg from the outside. He slips away from AJ and knocks down Kazarian before he can interfere, but then turns around into a clothesline from Morgan. Morgan chokes Hardy in the corner, then tags in AJ. AJ hits a Body Slam and his high knee drop. The crowd is cheering for AJ. Morgan tags back in, and hits his series of elbows in the corner. Now the crowd's behind Hardy. Matt hits a straight Suplex, which gets two. Williams tags in, and tosses Hardy throat first onto the top rope. Even though Williams is already in control, Flair trips Hardy. While the ref is trying to restrain Hardy's team Flair rolls him out and nails him with a low blow. They roll him back in, where Williams gets a cover for two. AJ tags back in. Hardy gets off a couple of shots, but AJ nails an elbow to the back of his head and tags in Williams. Williams works a neck vise. Hardy powers out, but Williams stops him with a head-butt to the gut. Hardy comes right back with a Flashback. Kazarian and Angle tag in. Angle pops Morgan off the apron, then takes down Kazarian with a series of clotheslines. AJ runs in, and runs right into a Belly-to-Belly Overhead Suplex. Kurt locks in an Angle Lock, but AJ nails him with a flying forearm off the top rope. Pope takes AJ down with an STO, then turns into a T-Bone from Williams, who turns into an Oklahoma Roll from Anderson, who turns into a Decapitator Clothesline from Morgan, who eats a Whisper in the Wind from Hardy, who gets a Wave of the Future from Kazarian, who nails an Olympic Slam on Kazarian as Pope blind tags himself in. Pope makes the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Anderson, Pope, Hardy & Angle in 9 minutes. It was a nice touch that instead of everyone hitting their finishers at the end, they hit other signature moves—it added a bit of variety to the usual formula.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2010, 02:11 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_43406.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE – NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

The announcers discussed possible injuries Mysterio may be dealing with after his match against the debuting Alberto Del Rio last week. Usually when a match of this caliber starts the show, you can count on something screwy happening that will have an effect on the rest of the show. Kane threw Mysterio out of the ring under the bottom rope and draped him throat-first over the ringside barricade. After tossing Mysterio back into the ring, Kane went under the ring and grabbed a kendo stick. Mysterio kicked at Kane’s leg on his way back into the ring, then used the stick on them. However, Mysterio ran into a big boot. Pin attempt got two. Hard whip into the buckle by Kane. Neck vice applied to Mysterio. He got free and was going to springboard off the top from the apron, but he was booted down in mid-air and found himself prone outside the ring. Mysterio with a drop toe-hold on Kane on the steps. Off the announce table with a seated senton went Rey. They took a break about 3:30 into the match.

Uppercut by Kane upon return, and he got a two-count from it. Still in control, Kane put Rey in a chin-lock. Once Rey broke out, he ran into a sidewalk slam. Kane retrieved a steel chair from ringside. Mysterio got his feet up and knocked the chair out of Kane’s hands. Seated senton off the top, then a headscissors into the 619 position. On the attempt, Kane caught him by the throat. Rey wouldn’t allow the chokeslam and went after Kane’s knee. He jammed the top of the chair into the back of Kane’s knee, then gave him a shot to the back. Another 619, this one connected. Springboard, but right into a chokeslam on the chair. Kane hooked the leg and was awarded the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Kane, at 9:28. This doesn’t hurt Rey much, as despite not being on offense a lot, he had the built-in excuse for the loss, with the arm injured by Del Rio. The announcers made very sure to get that point across throughout the match.

2 – CM PUNK vs. JTG

The entire Straight Edge Society accompanied Punk, including the since-released Serena. Striker noted it looked like she was wearing Cpl. Kirschner’s pants. Couple of quick pin attempts by JTG, but Punk pounded him down. He kicked away at JTG in the corner, then clotheslined him after a whip into the opposite turnbuckle. Knees to the gut and shots to the back from the SES leader. Running knee in the corner, followed up by the bulldog. Go To Sleep connected, but then locked in the long-forgotten Anaconda Vice for the tap-out win.

WINNER: Punk, by submission, at 1:56. Pretty much a squash for Punk.

3 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. KOFI KINGSTON – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Striker said Kingston’s jaw is still slightly dislocated after last week. Kicks in the corner by Kingston and Ziggler took an early break on the outside. It didn’t last long as Kingston clotheslined him down. Roll-up by Kofi, who smartly shifted his legs out from underneath the bottom rope. Unfortunately, the referee had to re-position himself and the challenger only got a one-count. Trouble in Paradise attempt, but Ziggler held onto the ropes. Flip roll-up by Kingston, the move he won the title with, but that only got two. Ziggler’s title appeared to be in jeopardy as they went to break.

Back-and-forth action was what viewers saw out of break. Kofi fired away with rights, attacking Ziggler in the corner. Ziggler got a boot up that floored Kingston. Cover got two. Jumping elbowdrop to the back of Kingston’s head for a two-count. Rear chin-lock with Ziggler sitting on Kingston’s back. Kingston fought back and again Ziggler held onto the ropes on a Trouble in Paradise attempt. Kingston then hit the same flip roll-up from earlier. The ref counted three, but Ziggler grabbed the bottom rope at two. Referee Chad Patton immediately waved off the pinfall. Kingston was visibly upset, and went for another pin that got two. Kingston missed a shoulder charge in the corner. Cover by Ziggler for two. Running neck-snap by Ziggler, shades of Mr. Perfect. Big neckbreaker followed that up. Kingston missed wildly with a right hand and the champion locked in a sleeper. Kofi got to the ropes and Vickie slapped Kofi behind the ref’s back. Ziggler was understandably mad and told Vickie not to screw this up for him. Lots of near-falls by Ziggler here.

Kofi fought back to a vertical base and went for a dropkick, but Ziggler caught him and catapulted him into the corner. Kofi landed on the middle rope and came off with a big punch for two. Kingston telegraphed his flip kick, but it connected anyway. He went to the top and landed a cross-body for two. Crowd was really into it at this point. Fireman’s carry take-over by Ziggler for a very near fall. Zig Zag attempt but Kofi held on to the top rope. Dropkick sent Ziggler outside the ring. Vickie stood in Kofi’s way as he tried to land on Kingston, so he stepped aside and hit a cross-body from the apron. Double-clothesline on the outside. Both men crawled toward the ring, and as they attempted to get in at the nine-count, Vickie held Ziggler back. That allowed Kingston to win by count-out and Ziggler to retain the title.

WINNER: Kingston, by count-out, at 14:09. One of the better matches these two have had as of late, thanks in part to the good story it told.

4 – JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP – JACK SWAGGER SR. INVITATIONAL – FIRST TO FIVE TAKE-DOWNS WINS

Grisham explained the rules and Swagger and MVP were given headgear. MVP threw his into the crowd. Swagger practice a couple times before locking up. Swagger taunted MVP, so MVP slapped him. Swagger took MVP down with ease to get an early 1-0 lead. Swagger invited MVP to take his leg, so MVP did so. A reversal by Swagger put MVP on the mat. 2-0. Crowd started chanting for MVP. Swagger went low and got a rear waist-lock. MVP blocked a take-down and performed a standing switch. Swagger picked MVP up and gave him almost a spinebuster to go up 3-0. Front face-lock by Swagger and MVP started to get frustrated, so he slapped Swagger, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Swagger, via DQ, at 2:04.

5 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CARLOS SANCHEZ

Sanchez even got an entrance. Well, kind of, as they showed Del Rio’s attack on Mysterio through most of it. Sanchez was billed as being from Fresno and Striker claimed he was a state grappling champion and that his family was on hand for this. Del Rio worked over Sanchez in the corner, then connected on a belly-to-back suplex. Rear chinlock by Del Rio, and the fans seemed particularly hot for Sanchez. He elbowed out, and Del Rio missed a splash in the corner. Del Rio got tired of Sanchez’s punches and grabbed him, sitting him on the top rope. Del Rio winked at him, then pushed him over to the outside. Ouch. Back in, he flipped the jobber over and hooked in the cross arm-breaker for the win.

WINNER: Del Rio, by submission, at 2:29.

6 – THE BIG SHOW vs. LUKE GALLOWS

Punk was conspicuous by his absence from the rest of the SES. Slaps to the chest of Gallows by Show, then a slap to the back. He tossed Gallows across the ring with ease. Joseph Mercury tried to get involved, but Show chased him away. Show slapped Gallows as he laid across the announce table. Serena started to get near Show, so Kelly jumped her. Gallows kicked at Show’s knee back in the ring, then to his face. Show put him down again (he was wearing his t-shirt during the match, by the way). Show sized up Gallows and nailed him with a right hand.

WINNER: Show, at 2:22. Based on this and Serena’s firing, I wouldn’t be surprised if we get a reset on the SES next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 10 2010, 10:55 am
Way behind on the results and reports here but all you need to do is go to the Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33173) or to my TOKYOPOP blog link under my sig pic to get caught up to date with all the results and news.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 13 2010, 06:34 am
WWE Superstars Results: 9-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_43672.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. R-TRUTH

The announcers had their talking point for the first-half of the match discussing Regal's rap attempt. Truth cut off Regal's offense throughout the opening part of the match, with Regal ending up on the floor as they cut to an early break.

Back from break, Regal was in control of the proceedings pounding on Truth with classic Regal offense. Cole then interjected: "Regal will use every part of his body as a weapon." I'm going to leave that one alone. A crawler then came across the screen announcing that next week, WWE Superstars "moves to a new time," one hour later on WGN America. The first hour of Impact has wrestling competition now. As for Regal vs. Truth, Truth suddenly scored a roll up center ring to secure a three count for the win.

WINNER: R-Truth in 10:00. Basic match that had no chance to overtake Regal's rap as the highlight of the first 15 minutes. (*)

2 -- GOLDUST & GAIL KIM (w/Aksana)

Goldust and Primo went to work early on. Goldust landed an early butt bomb, which Cole had trouble calling in the play-by-play. Gail then tagged in and worked over Jillian. Primo suddenly re-entered and Gail opted to landed a dropkick on him despite the gender-on-gender rules. The action broke down, taking the ref out of the action. Primo then assisted in Gail spilling out of the ring to the floor to give Jillian control. Primo and Goldust eventually took tags to re-enter, leading to Goldust landing signature offense. I imagine we'll be seeing a lot of this Goldust-Primo interaction Tuesday nights on NXT. Jillian then broke up a pin attempt, which stopped Goldust in his tracks. Jillian slapped Goldust, Goldust freaked, then he dropped Primo with the Final Cut. Goldust with the pin for the win. Goldust then hugged it out with Aksana before getting his hand raised with Gail.

WINNERS: Goldust & Gail. Fine tag match getting over Goldust and attempting to create interest in NXT Season 3 without anyone trying to dance. (*)

3 -- DUDEBUSTERS (TRENT BARRETA & CAYLEN CROFT) vs. VANCE ARCHER & CURT HAWKINS

Striker called Hawkins and Archer the "Sons of Chaos," as opposed to the hipper Sons of Anarchy from FX. After some back-and-forth tag action, they went to the finish with Barreta hitting a DDT on Archer for the win. Hawkins was just a hair late to make the save. WWE piped in a babyface crowd reaction, with some fans shown applauding the Dudes, who taunted Hawkins with the victory in hand.

WINNERS: Dudebusters in 4:00. No clarity here on who might face Hart Dynasty for the tag titles at Night of Champions. If WWE is trying to get over Dudebusters as babyface, it wouldn't make sense to match up two lukewarm babyface tag teams in a PPV title match. (*)

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. LUKE GALLOWS (w/Joseph Mercury)

The crawler came across the screen again reminding viewers that Superstars moves back an hour starting next week. Striker noted Joseph's storyline injury at the hands of Big Show while Show dominated Luke early on. The match moved to the floor where Show smashed Luke's chest with a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Back in the ring, Luke tried to fight back, but Show cut him off. Show cocked the big right hand for the KO Punch and he connected in the jaw. "Lights Out Luke," Grisham said. Show then slowly rolled over Luke to make the pin for the win. Joseph simply lowered his head in shame as they showed jubilant kids in the crowd celebrating Show's victory.

WINNER: Show in 3:00. Dominant victory for Show to build up Night of Champions vs. Punk. Show vs. Luke could be a strong attraction down the road if Luke is protected for a lengthy period of time picking up a series of convincing victories where it would seem like a big deal to see Show vs. Luke. That's basic pro wrestling. (*)

Post-match: Show took the mic and said the only fat-trimming going on here in WWE is him pledging to rid the WWE Universe of SES. The crowd popped for the proclamation. "Good luck, boys," Show said in conclusion. Grisham then gave a final plug for Smackdown with Taker's first match in four months vs. Punk. Show put his bandana back on and hugged a youngster ringside as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 13 2010, 06:35 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-10-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_43694.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP

Swagger with an amateur take-down, going back to what brought him to the dance. Corner charge missed and MVP followed it with a lariat. Big kick to the head sent Swagger out of the ring. Drop toe-hold by MVP, then a running knee to the back of the head. Swagger responded with a clothesline himself. Forearm to the back of the head by Swagger. Cover got a two-count. He stretched the arms of MVP behind his back. At this point, they went to break.

Back with Swagger booting MVP in the jaw, showing a lot of light. Vader Bomb, but MVP lifted his knees. Overhead throw by MVP, then a running boot in the corner. Swagger kicked out on a pin attempt though. Shot to the throat by MVP, then a “Ballin’!” elbowdrop. Swagger ducked out of the ring, and kicked the steel steps into MVP’s legs. He slammed MVP’s leg into the ring post. Swagger locked in the ankle lock back inside the ring. MVP tapped immediately.

WINNER: Swagger, at 8:04. Lasted a little longer than I expected. Maybe MVP is out of the doghouse.

2 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. MATT HARDY

They showed a clip of Del Rio’s celebration from last week, which was interrupted by Christian. Del Rio got the advantage aggressively to start, but Hardy bulldogged him down for two. Del Rio missed a kick and flew outside the ring. As Hardy came back to the apron, Del Rio landed an enziguiri, sending Matt to ringside.

Del Rio had Hardy in a chinlock out of break. Some choking of Hardy on the middle rope by Del Rio, then he continued to wear him down. Spinebuster by Del Rio, then a running knee. Another cover for only two, as Del Rio appeared to get frustrated. Hardy hit a Side Effect for a near-fall, then another. Moonsault by Hardy off the top for two. Del Rio to the top, but Hardy met him there. He dropped Hardy arm-first over the top rope, then a shoulder into the ring post. Cross arm-breaker for the submission victory.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 11:13. Another impressive showing for Del Rio. Hardy is kind of stuck in the mid-card right now, but that’s a good spot for him.

After the match, Del Rio went back for more, but before any further damage could be inflicted, Christian ran down to chase off Del Rio.

3 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. KAVAL

McIntyre backed Kaval into the corner until the ref ordered a break. Running kick to the face by McIntyre for a two-count. He went for a springboard move, but Mac tripped him up on the top rope and Kaval fell to ringside. He suplexed Kaval back-first onto the apron in an impressive move. Back in, Kaval kneed McIntyre in the head on a suplex attempt. More kicks as Kaval rubbed his head. Kaval with a back-kick off the top rope to the head for a very near-fall. To the top again, but McIntyre rolled to ringside. He tried a hurricanrana off the apron, but Mac caught him and powerbombed him into the barricade. He tossed Kaval back into the ring and landed the Future Shock DDT for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 3:58. Striker made up for the loss saying McIntyre seemed to eye Kaval with respect after the match. Despite the loss, Kaval had a good showing.

4 – DOLPH ZIGGLER & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. KOFI KINGSTON & CHRIS MASTERS

Press slam by Masters on Ziggler, who immediately tagged out. Ziggler caused a distraction that allowed Chavo to take out Masters’ knees. Ziggler wanted back in, and he kicked away at Masters once he made the tag. Masters made the hot tag only a few minutes in. Kingston with chops and a dropkick. He pounded away on Ziggler on the top rope, but the two Night of Champions opponents both delivered simultaneous clotheslines. Ziggler made the tag, but the ref was busy with Masters and the ref didn’t see it. Ziggler got to his feet and complained to the ref, then Kofi gave him the Trouble In Paradise for the win.

WINNERS: Kingston and Masters, at 2:48. Interesting that the tag not seen by the ref was for the heels, not the babyfaces. Just a short tag match to hype the IC Title match.

5 – CM PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Punk yelled at Luke Gallows and Joseph Mercury when they walked out to the stage with him, and they ended up walking back. Punk avoided a couple shots from Taker at the outset. He kicked at the thighs of the Dead Man, but Taker came back and cornered Punk, taking him down with kicks of his own. He worked over Punk’s left arm, and legdropped it for only a one-count. He sent Punk shoulder-first into the turnbuckle. He attempted Old School, but Punk pulled on the arm and crotched Taker on the top rope. Punk dropkicked Taker off the apron and to the arena floor. Undertaker attempted to recover as they went to break about three minutes into the match.

Punk continued to work the left arm as Grisham reminded fans that this was Taker’s first match in almost four months. During the break, Punk continued the onslaught on the outside. Headscissors by Punk as they tried to sell this as a legitimate submission finisher, despite the fact that no one has submitted to it in years. Back outside the ring they went, as Punk charged at Taker and rammed him back-first into the barricade. Taker fought back before Punk could throw him into the ring. The pace was slowed down quite a bit at this point, but Taker amped things up by dropping the leg across Punk’s throat with Punk lying on the apron. But Taker was struggling to get back to his feet near the announce table. Running boot in the corner missed from Taker and Punk met him with a kick of his own for two. Punk tied Taker up in a potential submission hold. Side suplex by Taker to break free. He missed a follow-up elbowdrop after getting back to his feet, though. Running knee in the corner by Punk, then a bulldog out of the corner that Taker took oddly. He kicked out at two. Both men got to their feet and slugged away at each other. Taker landed Snake Eyes, but hit the ropes and was greeted with a running leg lariat from his opposition. Springboard clothesline, but Punk was grabbed by the throat and chokeslammed. He kicked out at two. Taker signaled for the Tombstone, but Punk got out. Taker up for the GTS and he connected. But it took too much out of Punk and it took a while for him to make the cover. He ended up in the Hell’s Gate finisher and he tapped soon after it was locked in.

WINNER: Undertaker, at 14:35.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 13 2010, 06:37 am
ROH Glory by Honor IX Internet PPV Results: 9-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell and Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_43710.shtml)

(1) Kenny King vs. Jay Briscoe

King had the upper hand early on, but Jay caught him and dumped him on his head. Titus came out and distracted Jay. Jay nailed him with a dive, but King ended up taking the win a short time later with the Royal Flush. King defeats Jay.

RADICAN: (**) A short brawl between All Night Express and the Briscoes led into the next match.

(2) Mark Briscoe vs. Rhett Titus

Mark controlled the action early, but Titus cut him off with a nice dropkick. Mark cut off Titus and nailed him with an insane dive to the outside. Both men battled up top where Mark nailed Titus with a top rope ace crusher. Mark ended up taking the win after a burning hammer on Titus. Mark defeats Titus.

RADICAN: This was pretty good for a short match. (**3/4)

(3) Ballz Mahoney & Grizzly Redwood vs. Necro Butcher & Erick Stevens

Ballz cut a promo before the match backstage to set the stage for the expected brawl here. Necro is wearing what appear to be pajama pants or something from Daivari's wardrobe and a Tampa Bay Rays jersey. Redwood and Balls dominated early. Stevens got the heat on Redwood, who eventually made the hot tag to Balls. The action broke down and Nana interfered. Stevens then got Balls from behind with a modified Angle slam for the pin. Stevens & Butcher win.

RADICAN: **. CALDWELL: Three okay-to-good matches to start the PPV not trying to raise the bar too high for the big matches to come and whetting the appetite for the audience. Fine start.

(4) Kevin Steen & Steve Corino vs. El Generico & Colt Cabana - double chain match

As expected, Steen is chained to Generico and Corino is chained to Cabana. They set this up to let the audience know it's going to be a brutal affair. Cabana and Generico dominated the action early and busted open Corino and Steen. Cabana got busted open big time. Steen tried to choke out Generico with the chain, but he wouldn't submit.

This is pretty insane. Steen just applied a sharpshooter on Generico using the chain for leverage, but he wouldn't tap. Cabana and Generico mounted a huge comeback and the crowd went nuts. Generico was going to do a coast to coast dropkick onto Corino, but he hit Steen instead. A few minutes later. Generico tried to put Steen through a table, but Steen used the chain to toss him throughout the table. Corino's son came out to free Steen from Generico.

Pause for technical difficulties. The feed is back with Generico running wild. Cabana then submitted Corino with the Billy Goat's curse. Cabana & Generico win via submission. Post-match: Generico went to nail Steen with a top rope brainbuster, but Corino distracted him. Steen pulled off Generico's mask and used it to recreate his shirt image.

RADICAN: This was really good with a heavy angle at the end. CALDWELL: An expectedly brutal tag match playing off nine months of build-up leading to the babyfaces getting the victory. Decent brawl with a strong back-story to meet what was advertised. (***)

(5) ROH TV champion Eddie Edwards vs. Shawn Daivari - TV Title match

Edwards dominated early, but Edwards missed a spear attempt and hit his shoulder on the ringpost. Daivari worked over Edwards, but Edwards fired back and nailed him with a dive through the ropes. Daivari fired back and hit a big clothesline for a two count. Daivri ended up accidentally running into Nana on the apron. Edwards rolled him up and applied the Achilles lock for the pin. Edwards wins via submission.

RADICAN: *1/2. I'm not blown away by the show so far given the hype. CALDWELL: Solid match continuing Edwards's steady ROH TV Title run working his way to stronger opponents.

(6) Austin Aries vs. Christopher Daniels

Before the match, Aries cut a heel promo on Daniels and invited him to "steal the show" with him. JC: That was unnecessary to take the audience out of the match before it even started. It's about winning, not how you perform, in the context of a wrestling match.

The action was really good early on with Daniels in control. Aries fired back and snapped Aries's neck over the ropes. Daniels mounted a comeback an locked in the Koji clutch, but aries got the ropes. Aries hit the brainbuster moments later for a nearfall. Aries then hit the 450, but Daniels kicked out. Both men battled up top and Daniels hit a super Angel's wings for the pin. Daniels wins.

RADICAN: ***1/4. Wow! CALDWELL: Best match of the night with the show going according to plan slowly, steadily building to the double main event with increasingly good match action.

(7) ROH tag champions Kings of Wrestling vs. Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin - non-title match

SR: This is going to be insane. ... Great action early on with Shelton shining. Both teams nearly hit their finishers for nearfalls and the crowd exploded. KOW got the heat on Haas with the crowd seemingly split. Haas made the hot tag, but Hero pulled the ropes down on Shelton who spilled to the floor.

Hero grabbed a cravat and drove his knee into Shelton's head several times. Shelton struggled, but couldn't make the hot tag. Shelton hit a double neckbreaker on Castagnoli & Hero and the crowd popped huge. Haas finally got the hot tag and ran wild. Haas got tossed outside and KOW hit some great double team moves on Shelton.

Shelton hit an insane arm drag off the top on Claudio. Castagnoli locked in the Haas of pain. Hero got his pad on and nailed Haas with a loaded pad shot. Castagnoli then covered Haas for the pin. Haas and Benjamin cleaned house after the match. They then isolated Hagadorn and whipped him with a belt. KOW wins.

RADICAN: ****. This was excellent. CALDWELL: The show continues to progress in quality with an outstanding tag match. It's hard to top Guns vs. Beer Money for best tag match of the year thus far and this tried admirably to reach that level. The finish certainly leaves the door open for a re-match if Haas & Benjamin return to ROH.

(8) ROH World champion Tyler Black vs. Roderick Strong - ROH World Title match

Terry Funk is ringside enforcer for this No DQ title match pitting to quasi-heels against each other. Crowd reactions should be fascinating. There were a lot of boos for Black when he came out. Cornette is also out to do commentary.

Black took control early after dropping Strong onto ring apron. Strong fired back, but Black caught him with a gutbuster. Black then applied the STFU and the crowd booed.

The ref got bumped and Funk tossed him out of the ring. Funk tore off his shirt to reveal a ref shirt. Black nailed Strong with the book of truth and GLG for a nearfall. Both men got nearfalls and the crowd popped. The House of Truth ran out, but Funk fought them off.

Truth Martini came into the ring, but Funk tossed him out. Black hit his finishing sequence, but missed the Phoenix Splash. Strong then hit his finishing sequence and finished off Black with the sick kick for the pin. Strong wins to capture the ROH Title.

RADICAN: ***. CALDWELL: Shenanigans were expected here with Black on his way out and Funk involved. Fine conclusion to the PPV with a different type of ROH Title main event complementing the very strong tag match.

Post-match: Black flipped off the crowd before leaving. And look who's here... Homicide returns. Homicide jawed with Strong as the show went off the air.

RADICAN: Solid show. I give it a 7.0. I expected more given the hype. It's certainly a newsworthy show.

CALDWELL: The ending sets up an intriguing ROH Title chase with Davey, Daniels, and former champ Homicide. Please, no four-way matches, though. Overall, thumbs up show progressively building to the final three matches. Not spectacular and it didn't have that buzz-worthy Davey vs. Tyler match like the last PPV, but they had a newsworthy show and one very strong tag match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 15 2010, 01:38 am
WWE RAW Results: 9-13-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_43753.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title submission match

They returned from break with the match already in progress. Bryan nailed kick strikes in the corner, then missed with a corner attack. Alex Riley joined Miz ringside during the break to watch as Miz went to work on Bryan's left knee. Lawler noted Riley isn't even on the Raw roster, so he hopes he bought a ticket. Miz followed with a figure-four attempt, but Daniel reversed control. Bryan then tried the LeBell lock, but Miz grabbed the ropes for a break. Miz then stumbled to the outside and Riley checked on him. Miz flung him away and Miz teased he was about to hurl. This was weird. Miz then grabbed the mic and said, "I think I have a hernia." Miz said that to ensure he can defend the title on Sunday, he's pulling out of the match. Miz had a great facial expression selling this. Justin Roberts began to announce Bryan as the winner via forfeit, but Miz cut him off. Miz is booking now and said Bryan can finish against Riley.

Riley, in jeans, entered the ring to face Bryan in his street clothes. Lawler said the only thing Miz is suffering from tonight is diarrhea of the mouth. Riley tried a submission, but Miz countered into the LeBell Lock. Riley quickly tapped out, giving Miz the win. Post-match: Miz jumped into the ring and was suddenly healed - classic heel move there - to kick Bryan in the face. Miz then shoved Bryan's face into the U.S. Title belt to rub it in his face. Miz teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Bryan countered into the LeBell Lock. Miz tapped out furiously as Bryan smiled and refused to let go. Riley just stood there on the outside. Refs tried to pry Bryan off Miz as the crowd chanted, "You tapped out." Bryan eventually released the hold and his music played out with Cole noting the symbolism of Miz tapping out on the U.S. Title. Cole then made a comment it's not a submission match on Sunday. Well, Bryan can still win via submission.

WINNER: Miz over Riley at 0:34. We never actually heard a start and finish bell for Miz vs. Bryan, so the match technically never happened. Pretty strong emphasis on this feud in the segment. Miz's mic work with Johnson, the heelish way he "quit" the match vs. Bryan, and the sudden recovery before tapping out really enhanced Miz's character. Also, Bryan was presented strongly and the crowd reacted favorably. Good work all around. (n/a)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. EDGE -- Bodyslam Challenge

Edge teased an early bodyslam, but Bourne slipped out and landed a series of kicks. Edge teased a bodyslam after catching Bourne off the top rope, but Bourne fought off and landed a leaping kick strike beneath the chin. Edge did a slow collapse and teased being KO'ed. Bourne tried to slam Edge, but Edge slipped out. He then got that look in his eyes and delivered a one-hand bodyslam for the win. Afterward, Edge wasn't satisfied. He crouched in the corner and waited for Bourne to turn around to eat the spear.

WINNER: Edge at 1:14. Set up for...

After the match, the Raw GM buzzed. Cole read that the GM is not happy with Edge's post-match attack, so he gets a second bodyslam challenge match. And he gets this man...Mark Henry's music hit to bring out a jovial Henry satisfied with this opportunity. Cole noted the Raw GM has become "feisty" when it comes to dealing with Edge after he walked out of the elimination match on Raw two weeks ago.

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. EDGE -- Bodyslam Challenge

Edge teased a bodyslam, but Henry easily blocked before delivering a bodyslam for the decisive win. Afterward, they replayed Bourne's big kick to the jaw in Part 1. Henry checked on Bourne on the outside as the announcers recapped what happened to conclude the bit.

WINNER: Henry at 0:32. This isn't exactly what people had in mind suggesting WWE needs the occasional short match to tease that a finish can come at any time in a wrestling match. Overall, I thought this watered down the WWE Title match at the PPV having Edge look silly throughout this. (n/a)

4 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title, Falls Count Anywhere match -- Morrison gets Jericho's spot with a win

Sheamus started on the offensive, but Morrison quickly tried a roll-up for a nearfall. Sheamus then cut off Morrison and sent him flying to the outside. Morrison landed on his feet, then played cat and mouse with Sheamus. Morrison eventually scored a kick strike to the chest and made a cover on the floor for a two count. Sheamus then shoved Morrison into the guardrail and tried to follow, but Morrison dumped him over the guardrail into the front row. Morrison had ideas for something big and came flying over the guardrail with a running plancha. He then made a cover on the arena floor for a two count.

They ended up near the production & pyro area and Sheamus landed the Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus slingshot Morrison across an arena barrier as the match moved to the area below the entrance stage. Morrison slid across the floor, then ducked the Brogue Kick. Pyro sparked when Sheamus made contact with a stage prop, which freaked out Sheamus. Sheamus followed up anyways as the match moved to the stage. Sheamus scored a nearfall near the WWE logo as the crowd tried to rally behind Morrison. Sheamus teased throwing Morrison off the stage, but Morrison slipped out and landed kick strikes. Sheamus then tried to throw Morrison off the stage, but Morrison did a parkour counter to land on his feet. Sheamus freaked out as they replayed Morrison's sick counter.

Back on the floor, Sheamus threw Morrison into the side of the grandstands and scored a two count. Sheamus teased a suplex, but Morrison slipped out. Sheamus then retrieved a chair as Morrison disappeared from view. Suddenly, Morrison was on top of the Raw platform. I thought he was super-imposed on the Titantron. Morrison suddenly came flying off the platform with a big splash on Morrison. He had the cover, but Sheamus kicked out. Chris Jericho suddenly came out and cracked a chair over Morrison's back. Sheamus then made the cover for the win. Afterward, Sheamus did a solid job selling Morrison's offense by acting dazed in celebration.

WINNER: Sheamus at 6:43. That was something else. Exciting and different and innovative. Suddenly, Morrison is way more over than he has been since moving to the Raw brand. They also put sympathy on him getting screwed by Jericho in the match. Two weeks of solid Morrison booking has his career back on track. (**1/2)

5 -- WWE tag champions HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH) vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title steel cage handicap match -- Jericho back in Six-Pack with a win

The match was joined in progress with Jericho trying to escape through the door. The problem with the steel cage handicap match is that do both HD members have to escape to win? They answered that early with Smith and Kidd trying to escape the cage on opposite sides. Smith made it out, but Jericho cut off Kidd. Jericho and Kidd then engaged in match action while Smith watched on the outside. Why wouldn't Smith re-enter the cage and beat down Jericho so they could both escape? Logic! Jericho, in his dress pants, taunted the Raw GM. Kidd then tried to sneak around Jericho to escape the cage door, but Jericho cut him off. Kidd then came back with an armdrag and a kick strike. Jericho tried to run out of the cage, but Kidd cut him off and rammed him head-first into the cage. Kidd then tried a top-rope move, but Jericho countered into the Walls of Jericho. Kidd countered, then rolled into the Sharpshooter center ring. Jericho teased tapping out, but grabbed the bottom rope to break the hold.

They went to the finish where Jericho slingshot Kidd to the ropes, but Kidd tried to Spiderman-climb the cage. Jericho cut him off, then blocked a top rope huracanrana. Kidd's neck nearly snapped in two with his head coming inches away from bouncing straight into the mat. Jericho made the quick save and countered right into the Walls of Jericho. Kidd tapped out, giving Jericho the win. Afterward, they had a great close-up shot of a grizzly Jericho glaring into the camera. Very Kevin Steen-like. Jericho then did the belt-around-the-waist motion to celebrate the win before they had another close-up shot of evil Jericho.

WINNER: Jericho at 5:15. The match logic was flawed with Smith standing on the outside rather than re-entering the match to help Kidd, but Jericho's two-segment performance, in dress clothes no less, was simply terrific. The post-match "heel glare through the bars of the cage" was a terrific visual. Very old-school. The only problem is they didn't translate that to the title match with a rushed re-insertion. A reminder: it's back to a Six-Pack Challenge, with the elimination stipulation. (*3/4)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 15 2010, 01:39 am
WWE RAW Results: 9-13-10

Continued from previous post...

6 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. GOLDUST

Regal paused and did Goldust's slow chest-stroke and "boo" noise in Goldust's face, trying to fully enter the Goldust switcheroo gimmick. Goldust then pulled out the Brass Knucks from his trunks. Apparently the Cliffs Notes version of a near-30-year career for Regal is knucks. Goldust then blasted Regal with the knucks behind the ref's back for the win. Regal sold this amazingly by sprawling out like a CSI crime scene.

WINNER: Goldust at 0:24. Regal is an amazing performer getting himself over like a star doing one of the dumbest things of his career. Regal and Jericho back-to-back = greatness. (n/a)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. RANDY ORTON -- Tables match

After the opening bell, they paused to look at each other and gauge the crowd reaction. Lock-up. No one giving an inch. Lock-up. Cena took Orton down to a knee in a headlock. Cena with a shoulder knock down and Orton backed away to his corner. Great feeling-out process to begin things here as the crowd chanted for an RKO. Lock-up. Orton with the shoulder knock down this time. Cena got up, then both men slowly walked around the ring sizing each other up. Orton then landed a right hand strike and ran Cena into the top turnbuckle. The vocal portion of the crowd was hot for Orton.

At 3:10, they moved to the ring apron. Orton teased a suplex through a table on the floor, but Cena shoved him off. Orton landed on his feet ringside and carefully put his hand on the table trying to feel out the smooth surface of the furniture. The crowd was hot with an "RKO" chant" as they cut to break with Cena tensely staring down at Orton, who returned the stare with a tense glare. His body language sets him apart as a top star. Cole said they're at a stalemate. That's how you set up a professional wrestling match.

Back from break, Cena and Orton were trading right hand bombs center-ring. Orton got control and shoved a boot in Cena's chest to begin stomping on him. Cena then teetered off the edge of the ring apron with a table on the floor below. That got the kids screaming in fright. Back in the ring, Cena made a comeback with a Fisherman Suplex. Orton rolled to the corner to avoid Cena's follow-up, then both men fell to the mat. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Orton blocked and dropped Cena on his head.

At 10:00, Orton introduced a table into the ring as Cena was talking to Orton about setting up a spot. Cena waited for Orton to prop up the table in the corner, then he did his full comeback routine. Cena dropped the Shuffle on Orton, then teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Orton blocked and landed clotheslines followed by a big powerslam. Orton fired up, but got caught with the STFU center ring. As expected, right at the top of the hour, Nexus hit the ring to huge heat. Orton delivered the RKO to one member, then Cena chucked Slater over the top rope through a table ringside. The table shattered into pieces. That was sick, dangerous, and one of those "can you pass the test, kid?" type bumps. Cena stared down at Slater, then Barrett caught him from behind with the Wasteland overhead slam. Gabriel and Barrett then had some ideas for Cena. Gabriel went up top for the 450 on Cena through the table, but Orton shoved Gabriel off the top rope through another table ringside. That shattered as well. Barrett then cut off Orton with a boot to the face. Barrett had ideas to send Orton through a table, but Orton came to life and threw Barrett over the top rope through a third table ringside. Nexus is wiped out.

Orton and Cena were left in the ring with the tables match still going on. Orton slowly rearranged the furniture in the ring and pounded the mat wanting a piece of Cena. Suddenly, Edge and Jericho hit the ring to beat down Orton. Orton fought back to reduced heat, blocked the Codebreaker, then speared Edge into Jericho through a table. Interesting spot. And there came WWE champ Sheamus with a Polish Hammer on Orton. Sheamus then kneed Cena off the apron to the floor. Sheamus tried to follow, but Cena gave Sheamus the Attitude Adjustment on the floor. It looked like Sheamus was supposed to eat the table, but Cena moved it beforehand.

Back to the match, Orton cut off Cena as Cena was trying to re-enter the ring. Orton wanted the spike DDT, but Cena countered into the Attitude Adjustment position. Cena tried the AA through a table, but both men kind of fell through the table. The bell sounded and Orton was declared the winner with the announcers saying Orton countered into an RKO. They went to a slow-motion replay from a reverse angle that did indeed show Orton with a sick mid-air RKO counter to take Cena through the table for the win. Post-match: Cole sold the idea that Orton could become the new WWE champion at the PPV. They closed with a shot of Orton smiling his sinister smile into the crowd to close the show.

WINNER: Orton at 16:55. Strong main event with Orton looking like a top star to build the company around. You knew Nexus was going to get involved somehow, which set up the parade of folks bumping for Orton or Cena ultimately leading to Orton standing tall as the "favorite" to win the WWE Title at Night of Champions. It was a desperation sales pitch to the adult demographic that is more likely to order a WWE PPV, working with the idea that the audience will be more inclined to order if they believe "their babyface" is going to win the title. On the whole, though, WWE was more miss than hit trying to connect all these different stories - especially the changing stories - into one uniform sales pitch for the PPV. It will be interesting to see how the buyrate comes in following Summerslam last month. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 15 2010, 06:46 am
ROH on HDNet Results: 9-13-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Twilling's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10014057.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Christopher Daniels defeated "Addicted to Love" Rhett Titus (with Austin Aries) in 7:42. With Daniels standing on the second rope setting up for a high risk move, Titus hit a very impressive standing dropkick. Titus took control of the match and scored a nearfall.

Titus continued to enjoy offensive success by hitting a reverse neckbreaker for another nearfall. After a series of counters, Daniels hit a STO and regained control. He attempted to hit the Angels' Wings, but Titus countered by pushing Daniels into the turnbuckles.

Daniels applied the Koji Clutch and Titus tapped out, but the referee with busy being distracted by Aries. Daniels ended up whipping Titus into Aries, who was standing on the apron. He followed up with the BME (Best Moonsault Ever) for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Decent opener, but not as good as you would expect. The short amount of time they were given didn't help much, as well as the crowd being dead for it. Solid action back and forth though and an impressive win for Daniels.

2. The House of Truth (Christian Able and Josh Raymond, with Truth Martini) defeated Ricky Reyes and Aiden Chambers in 2:49. THOT have the worst theme music. It sounds like Earthquake's music from his early 90s WWF days.

Reyes had the first impressive offensive flurry of the match after getting a hot tag. Able and Raymond hit their finisher (double team move, place opponent on shoulders, face the other way from the corner, partner comes down with double knees over the shoulders) for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: Solid action, but neither team stands out. The House of Truth has a horribly indy look, which is too bad, since their manager also manages the current ROH Champion, Roderick Strong.

3. The American Wolves (Davey Richards and ROH Television Champion Eddie Edwards) defeated The Super Smash Brothers in 10:28. Player Uno looked impressive early and they hit a double team move on Richards for the first nearfall. Uno and Dos continued to look impressive.

Edwards hit a Warrior's Way on the back of Uno's head and Richards covered for their first nearfall. Richards and Uno went back and forth with their offense. Edwards and Dos tagged in and Dos hit a nice high cross body. Dos then hit a double Pele kick on both Wolves.

Edwards save a pinfall attempt from the Smash Brothers. He then took over the match for his team. He and Dos had an impressive singles exchange for a few moments. Eddie and Davey isolated Dos but Dos hit a reverse hurricarana on Richards.

They thought they had Edwards beat after a half nelson suplex but he kicked out. Dos then missed a frogsplash. The Wolves hit the powerbomb/Code Breaker combination. Edwards then applied the Achilles Lock and got the win for his team...

Twill's Two Cents: Very good and very fast paced tag team match. That was a ten minute match that had the action of twenty. I like the idea of the Wolves continuing to team together because a situation could arise where the Wolves have all of the championships in Ring of Honor.

4. Austin Aries defeated Delirious in a lumberjack match in 11:11. Delirious hit a few moves and Aries exited the ring where the heels were and they allowed him to catch a breather. The same thing happened when Delirious was sent out to the babyfaces.

Austin took control of the match with a methodical set of offensive moves. He scored a few nearfalls as well. Aries sent Delirious to the babyfaces on the floor. He hit a suicide dive and then got the hell out of there.

Delirious came back and hit a few moves to take full control of the match. He worked on the lower back of Aries to set up for Shadows Over Hell. He then hit the cobra suplex. He went to the top rope. Aries slithered out of the ring to the heels. Delirious hit a somersault plancha on all of them.

The lumberjacks started to brawl with each other. With the referee's back turned, Rhett Titus hit a knee drop off of the top rope onto Delirious. Aries hit More Damage Done (front facing Stunner) for the win...

Twill's Two Cents: The lumberjack stipulation did not add a whole lot to the match, because it simply allowed the referee to be distracted for Titus to assist Aries in getting the win. I do like the feud though, so this one will definitely continue because of the finish.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2010, 11:20 am
WWE NXT Results: 9-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43780.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring action (if you can call it that!) and some other crap that goes on during the show.

1 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & KAITLYN vs. PRIMO & A.J.

Ziggler and Primo started things off. Apparently Primo is playing face in the alternative universe known as NXT. The Rookies then tagged in as Cole turned an inspiring story into a jab that he hopes A.J. is homeless again in three week. "They don't pay me enough to sit out here and call this stupid show," Cole added. Ziggler and A.J. found themselves in the ring together. A.J. slapped Ziggler, then fired off a right hand to bring in Primo. Primo landed a series of rolling elbows, but Ziggler caught Primo with the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ziggler and Kaitlyn celebrated a bit too much for Vickie's liking. She slowly stepped off the ring steps and walked away selling agitation with Ziggler. Cole said maybe he should go console Vickie. They cut to an on-camera of Cole and Mathews, who didn't seem to know they were actually on-camera. They both looked haggard not "getting up" for the on-camera as they looked down at the monitors.

WINNERS: Ziggler & Kaitlyn. More of a Smackdown development with the Ziggler/Vickie relationship on the rocks. (*)

2 -- AKSANA (w/Goldust) vs. JAMIE KEYES (w/Bella Twins)

Cole and Mathews suggested they should be Pros on the next season of NXT. Jamie won this with a roll-up in about two minutes.

WINNER: Jamie in 2:00. WWE has made it clear the match and in-ring action doesn't matter, as the challenges are the only way to "earn points" and earn immunity. I'm not even sure why they use a wrestling ring anymore. (n/a)

Jamie won the Joke Off challenge(I kid you not!!!)
Kaitlyn won the Obstacle Course challenge.
Michael Cole got pissed off and walked off NXT.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2010, 11:21 am
WWE Superstars Results: 9-16-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_43834.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- USO BROTHERS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV

Cole referenced a WWE Magazine interview with Santino, who talked up the Cobra as a paralyzing move that cuts off the blood flow for a few seconds to secure a pin. Santino and Jey started things off with Santino doing the comedy routine. Kozlov then tagged in to oppose Jey while Santino just stood on the apron pouting. Cole was confused on which Uso was in the ring, noting both men are wearing athletic shorts this week. The Usos eventually caught Kozlov with a double-team and began working him over. Santino made his way into the ring moments later as Tamina took a step back to observe Santino's physical prowess. The Usos eventually cut him off and went to work on Santino. They cut to break.

Back from break, Santino kicked out of a pin attempt as the Usos continued to work him over as Tamina sold mild concern, plus some conflict on who to root for. Cole talked up the Night of Champions PPV line-up and plugged an update on Kane vs. The Undertaker on Smackdown tomorrow night. Kozlov then tagged in and ran over Jimmy with power offense. The ction broke down, then Kozlov caught Jimmy with the Iron Curtain for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Tamina entered the ring and pointed her finger at Santino. She asked Santino to show her the Cobra. Santino then demonstrated the hand motions, but Tamina wanted a more intimate demonstration. Santino approached Tamina from behind like he was showing her how to grip a golf club. They cued up some snake charmer music as Santino demonstrated the motion step-by-step. Tamina started dancing her hand in front of Santino, with his eyes following her hand. Tamina then snapped her fingers and Santino snapped back to life. Santino went a little nuts licking and sucking Tamina's hand before she pulled her hand away. Tamina sold mild interest as Santino told her to text him.

WINNERS: Kozlov and Santino in 9:00. I'm waiting to see if this plays out where Tamina has been trying to buddy up to Santino to steal his power, with Santino finally being conned into teaching her the "power" of the Cobra. As ridiculous as it is, WWE can make it work within the parameters of WWE's story rules. The best part of the match was Cole and Lawler finding ways to avoid calling Jimmy and Jey by their individual names not being able to tell them apart. (*1/2)

2 -- GREAT KHALI vs. PRIMO (w/A.J.)

Primo tried to dance around Khali once the bell sounded, but Khali cut him off and shoved Primo into the corner. Khali teased the Chop, so Primo ducked to the outside. A.J. eventually walked over to Primo to consult with him. In the confusion, Primo tried to run a sneak attack on Khali, who shrugged him off. Khali then landed a clothesline and somewhat played to the crowd while looking around the arena in a state of confusion. Khali then grabbed Primo around the neck and landed the Punjabi Plunge for the easy win. And everyone danced.

WINNER: Khali in 3:00. It's oftentimes not clear if Khali really knows what's going on in the ring. (n/a)

3 -- MVP vs. LUKE GALLOWS

Striker interjected a plug for Big Show's forthcoming "Knucklehead" movie, which is being shown as a trailer ahead of John Cena's "Legendary" movie in theaters. MVP and Luke traded control early on, then MVP gave him a big Chono Boot over the top rope to the floor. They cut to break with MVP in control.

Back from break, MVP was in control working on Gallows with a neck vice, but Gallows came back with a boot to the face. Gallows took control and started taunting MVP: "Are you having fun yet? You like to party?" Luke then measured MVP for a running corner splash and connected flush. The crowd tried to rally behind Luke, who continued to work on MVP with mat holds. Luke then delivered a scoop slam and mocked the Ballin' elbow drop with a sort of wiggle before airballing the elbow drop. Apparently this is WWE's attempt to give Luke a personality. MVP made his full comeback and delivered an overhead slam. He set up Luke for the Playmaker and connected for the three count and the win.

Post-match: MVP started to leave the ring, but walked back over to Luke and gave him a hand. MVP helped Luke to his feet and shook his hand to show sportsmanship. Luke then tried a right hand blow, but MVP ducked and clotheslined him. MVP put the exclamation mark on the main event with the Ballin' elbow drop to close off the show with MVP getting his shine.

WINNER: MVP in 13:00. Fine match with MVP getting a TV main event victory and looking strong at show-end. Luke playing a mild heel comedy role to "show personality" isn't exactly positioning him to make money for WWE. He's not being asked to be a top heel right now, though, as he's in that Mike Knox role simply being a mid-card enhancement for upper mid-card babyfaces. It will be interesting to see where he is this time next year if there's some upward mobility as a more serious and threatening heel act. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 18 2010, 11:22 am
TNA Impact! Results: 9-16-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_43829.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KEVIN NASH (w/Sting) vs. SAMOA JOE (w/Jeff Jarrett)

Thumbs down for throwing this match on TV with no hype or pre-match perspective or comments. This is a match you can build a show around if you do it right, or at least be one of two main events. It makes them seem like scrubs to have a one-on-one match just thrown out there like this. The crowd chanted "Joe's gonna kill you!" at Nash. Joe dominated early and stomped Nash to the edge of the ring apron. Nash yanked Joe to the floor and rammed his face into the edge of the ring. Sting took a shot at Joe as he began making a comeback against Nash at ringside. They fought to an early double countout. Jarrett ended up fighting Nash and Sting ended up fighting Joe at ringside as the bell rang over and over. Security intervened, but the wrestlers pushed past security and kept fighting.

WINNER: Double Countout in 2:00.

2 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title Match

Nice early gut-wrench suplex from Williams. The crowd chanted, "Let's go Lethal!" Lethal elbowed out of a gut wrench attempt at 3:00. Williams climbed to the top rope and leaped at Lethal. Lethal caught him with a flying dropkick, though. Both were slow to get up. Williams kicked out of a Lethal Combination at 4:00. Lethal went for a top rope elbow, but Williams moved. Lethal came back a minute later by blocking a tornado DDT and hitting the Lethal Injection finisher for the win.

WINNER: Lethal in 6:00 to capture the X Division Title.
STAR RATING: ** -- Taz called it a history-making moment, but the confetti and announcer accolades doesn't change the fact it was only six minutes and therefore didn't feel epic enough to be a big deal. But I suppose you have to give them some credit for doing the confetti and making a good attempt to salvage a six minute title change into something meaningful.

3 -- HAMADA & TAYLOR WILDE vs. MADISON RAYNE & LACEY (w/Tara) -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Titles

Tenay and Taz talked about Abyss's promise to reveal "They" on 10-10-10. Taz said at first they thought EV2, then Fortune, but they were all wrong. (It's Bischoff & Russo. They're trying to take over TNA from Dixie & Hulk. Just a guess.) Hamada landed a moonsault on Lacey for a near fall at 2:00. Wilde tagged in and hit Lacey with a flying crossbody for a two count. Rayne yanked Wilde by her hair and then ordered Lacey to tag her in. Taz said Rayne must be a handful to be in a relationship with. Hamada hot-tagged in at 3:00 against Lacey. She headbutted her, then tagged in Wilde, who charged and knocked Sky off the apron. Hamada and Wilde double-teamed Lacey and scored the pin.

WINNERS: Hamada & Wilde in 4:00 to retain the TNA Tag Team Titles.
STAR RATING: *1/4

-Afterward Rayne chewed out Lacey. Lacey had enough and shoved her. Tara then attacked Lacey. Angelina Love and Velvet Sky ran to the ring to make the save. Rayne and Tara retreated. Tenay asked who Lacey trusts now as she stood in the ring with the original Beautiful People.

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. BRIAN KENDRICK

Morgan nearly decapitated Kendrick with a clothesline after the break. He continued his morph into Big Bubba Rogers with the button up shirt and dress pants. Morgan went for a cover after a few elbows and power moves, but lifted Kendrick before the three count. Tenay called Kendrick "courageous as hell," but wondered what he was thinking issuing that open challenge. Morgan checked his imaginary watch to see if it was Hellivator time. Kendrick recovered during that time and nailed Morgan with running kick to the face for the sudden pin. Kendrick fled the ring and celebrated up the ramp. Morgan threw a fit in the ring.

WINNER: Kendrick in 2:00.

-Morgan said that didn't count because he wasn't ready. He said he's in a $7,500 Armani suit. He tore off his shirt, with buttons flying everywhere. He said that doesn't count and he wants it stricken from the record book. He called him back to the ring, fuming and yelling. Tenay said it's in the record book.

5 -- JEFF HARDY vs. KURT ANGLE

Hardy's ring intro took place first. Then Angle's. Tenay detailed the finish at No Surrender between these two. Taz talked about the "Big Match Atmosphere" he felt in the opening seconds as they were about to lock up. At 3:00, after a feeling out process, Hardy took control with a slidekick in the corner. He followed Angle to the floor and continued on offense against him. Hardy scored a two count in the ring and then settled into a chinlock. Angle came back at 4:00. Taz noted Angle was grabbing at his ribs, which were injured at the PPV. Angle slingshot over the top rope with a dive onto Hardy at ringside. Taz said he's surprised Angle would take that risk with the injury he has. Mr. Anderson walked out to the announce desk as they cut to a break mid-match. A rare mid-match break on Impact. I don't get why they never say one of the great things about PPV is no mid-match interruptions. But I suppose they don't want to draw attention to how annoying mid-match interruptions are.

Anderson said he wanted a good view of this match, scouting his potential contenders in the finals. Taz asked him who he'd rather fight. Anderson said both of them and none of them. Tenay called him politically correct. That's not really politically correct. It's just noncommittal. The pace picked up in the ring with Hardy hitting a Twist of Fate for a near fall at 11:00. Anderson said he's a different person than he was six months or a year ago. Angle avoided a Hardy top rope move and then flip dove onto him for a two count. Angle, bleeding from the forehead by this point, applied an anklelock mid-ring. Hardy stood up, but Angle twisted him back down. They went into an overrun at this point, an attempt to boost lousy and sinking Reaction ratings. Hardy landed a Swanton, but Angle kicked out. Hardy went for a Twist of Fate, but Angle moved and hit the ref. Anderson was talking so Tenay and Taz couldn't really react to it. Angle gave Hardy an Angle Slam. A second ref entered and counted a near fall. Angle bled more heavily now. Angle gave Hardy another Angle Slam. Hardy kicked out again. At 11:02 p.m. ET Tenay arbitrarily signed off Impact and said the match would continue during Reaction.

They immediately went to "Reaction," which looks a lot like Impact, I must say. They kept cutting to shots of Dixie at ringside with her intense concerned look. Taz said there's no time limit on this match. He said it segued onto Reaction from Impact. Angle settled into a rear chinlock. At 17:00 Hardy made a comeback and swing kicked Angle in the corner for a near fall. He then clotheslined Angle over the top rope. Tenay said when this match ends, they'll hear from both wrestlers. Hardy shoved Angle back-first into the edge of the ring. Back in the ring Angle gave five unreleased German suplexes to Hardy. Taz it's clear Angle is feeling the pain in his ribs as he executes them. At 20:00 Angle pretended he was having trouble standing up. (I assume he was pretending.) He climbed to the top rope and went for a frog splash, but Hardy moved. Hardy went for a Twist of Fate, but Angle avoided it and applied an anklelock. There were two active referees in the ring at this point, with Brian Hebner just recovering from his bump earlier. Anderson said he's rooting for Jeff "because he is my buddy." Angle had Hardy in a leglock. Hardy tried to counter with his own. Both of them had their shoulders down. Each ref counted one set of shoulders down at the same time. Tenay, I believe for the first time, said, "Kurt Angle's career is at stake in this match." He wondered what the decision was. Earl Hebner said Angle was the winner. His son Brian Hebner said Hardy was the winner.

WINNER: Double Pin in 22:00.
STAR RATING: ***3/4 -- A very good match again between these two.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2010, 12:10 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-17-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_43852.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE HART DYNASTY vs. CODY RHODES & DREW MCINTYRE

Long collar-and-elbow tie-up from Mcintyre and David Hart Smith. A bit of chain wrestling from the two ended with Smith powerslamming McIntyre for two. Rhodes tagged in and was double-teamed. Rhodes went to ringside, and Natalya slapped him while the ref was distracted by Kidd. They went to break about three minutes in.

Back from break, Rhodes pounded away on Kidd on the outside. Knee-drop sans the kneepad for a two-count. McIntyre tagged in and continued the assault. Kidd tried to make a comeback, to little reception. Springboard enziguiri by Rhodes. Kidd countered McIntyre with a swinging neck-breaker. Both men made tags, and Rhodes got to Smith before he could even get into the ring. Rhodes even connected on a punch to the face when Smith put his head down, a la Goldust. Smith shook that off and set up for the Hart Attack. McIntyre tripped up Kidd though and as Smith went for a powerslam, Rhodes turned it into Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNERS: Rhodes and McIntyre, at 11:17. Okay match, but nothing you’d remember next week.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER

Single-leg take-down by Swagger. All of his matches seem to start with him doing amateur wrestling. Kofi went for a kick to the ribs, but whiffed on a few more attempts. Go-behind from Swagger led to a few forearms to the back of Kofi’s head. Kofi ran the ropes and flew at Swagger with a flying forearm. Swagger went to ringside to take a short break from things. He came back in and worked the arm and shoulders of Kingston. He catapulted Kofi over the top rope, but Kofi held on. Springboard, but Kingston landed right in Swagger’s arms, and Swagger slammed him down. Break time, shy of five minutes in.

Swagger continued focusing on the mid-section of Kofi during the break and once the show returned as well. Belly-to-belly suplex by the All-American American. Vader Bomb found the mark for two. Swagger did some choking of Kofi in the ropes. Kingston tried the flip kick in the corner to energize his comeback, but Swagger caught his legs and continued the onslaught. Kofi flailed on the ground, throwing punches that weren’t close to connecting. Dueling “Let’s go Swagger” and “Let’s go Kofi” chants. Swagger again grounded Kofi with an abdominal stretch. Kingston made a full comeback, including a high cross-body off the top rope. Chops and a dropkick from Kofi. Swagger avoided Trouble in Paradise, ducking down to do so. Ankle-lock, but Kofi got the ropes. Swagger tried to kick the steps into Kingston like he did to MVP last week, but Kingston avoided the move. Kofi then attacked Swagger, still on the outside. Some of them showed quite a bit of light. Back in the ring, Kofi jumped on Swagger’s shoulders to give him some more punches, but Swagger walked out of the corner and tried the ankle-lock. No dice, but he was able to give Kofi a big boot. Vader Bomb was met with two boots, then Kofi connected on Trouble in Paradise for the victory.

WINNER: Kingston, at 16:17. Solid match, one that could be a money drawing match down the line at some point.

3 – ROSA MENDES & KELLY KELLY vs. LAYCOOL

Kelly’s pro Naomi was out with her, and Kaval accompanied LayCool. LayCool harassed Naomi at ringside, so the babyfaces went on the attack. McCool made fun of Kelly’s odor, then Kelly shoved Michelle into Layla, who was on the apron. “She’s killing me,” said McCool as she tagged Layla. Double clothesline by Kelly, then a tag by Rosa. Hair toss, but McCool distracted Rosa, allowing Layla to take over. Rear chinlock by Layla. Rosa tried unsuccessfully to elbow out. Layla attacked Kelly on the apron to ensure there would be no tag. Lay-Out neckbreaker by Layla after interference by McCool, and that sealed it.

WINNERS: LayCool, at 2:03. Pretty ugly at times.

4 –CM PUNK vs. CHRISTIAN

Couple quick knock-downs by Christian for a couple of one-count. Test of strength, but Punk kicked Christian in the gut. Hard slap by Christian, who then stepped on Punk’s back, choking him in the middle rope. He ran right at Punk, who put him down with a knee-lift. Del Rio was enjoying the beating Christian was taking. It’s worth mentioning that Punk did not have Luke Gallows and Joey Mercury with him at ringside. Body-scissors by Punk. Big kick to the back by Punk. Shot to the kidneys followed that up. Springboard dropkick by Punk sent Christian off the apron and to the floor. They went to break at this point.

Christian found himself back in the body-scissors back from break. He broke out, but Punk then went into an abdominal stretch. Back-breaker from Punk. He went for another one, but Christian countered. Del Rio proclaimed himself the next Heavyweight Champion. Both men were down ‘til the count of nine. Flying European Uppercut by the Canadian. Springboard sunset flip for two. The two traded roll-ups, but Punk powered Christian into the corner. Running knee to the face, but Christian blocked a bulldog and got a near-fall. Del Rio left the commentary table and got a mic. He talked about reconsidering, getting Christian’s attention long enough for Punk to get Captain Charisma up for the GTS, and down for the win.

WINNER: Punk, at 12:06.

Del Rio brought a chair into the ring, set it up over Christian’s prone body, and said his answer was still no. Then Big Show came out and chased off Punk. Del Rio, with the chair, distracted him long enough for Punk to come back. But in the end, he got punched in the face and fell to the mat.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 20 2010, 01:04 pm
WWE Night of Champions PPV Results: 9-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_43879.shtml)

1 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Kaitlyn) vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Intercontinental Title match

Nice feeling-out process to begin things with both men coming to a standstill. Kingston then clotheslined Ziggler over the top rope to the floor. Kaitlyn was the first one to check on Ziggler, then Vickie stepped in to check on her man. Meanwhile, the ref reached a six count, and Ziggler ran back into the ring. Vickie sent Kaitlyn to the back during this. They reset in the ring and Ziggler cut off Kingston in the corner to establish offensive control. The announcers tried to create witty banter as Ziggler continued to cut off Kingston. Ziggler then landed a Fameasser and Striker noted he was "trying to make him famous." Ziggler re-established control as Striker tried to hit the talking point on Ziggler being the "college-educated, 21st Century wrestler."

At 7:00, Ziggler fought back from his knees to escape a reverse chinlock. They started trading bombs, then Kingston had to be pulled away by the ref when Ziggler reached the corner. Kingston came back with a top rope cross-body attempt and Ziggler jumped into the air to make it look good, but not real. Kingston scored a nearfall, then went to work with high-flying offense. Kingston followed with the Boom Drop before going to the corner to do the hand-clap. Ziggler ducked the Trouble in Paradise, but Kingston escaped a sleeperhold and hit his swinging SOS maneuver. Kofi had the pin, but Dolph put his foot on the bottom rope to break the count just in time. Very good nearfall.

The match moved to the floor where Kingston scoop slammed Ziggler on the floor. He then sent Dolph back into the ring and made a cover for a two count. Cole noted Kofi should have left Dolph on the outside to get him counted out. After a replay, Kofi teased the swinging SOS again, but Dolph sprung to life with a sleeperhold. Kofi dropped down to one knee and tried to break free, but Dolph maintained control. Kofi eventually broke free to a pop and slapped on a sleeperhold of his own. Dolph ran Kofi into the ropes to escape, though. Vickie then warmed up a slap, but Dolph yelled at her that he's got this. Dolph then turned around and managed to duck Trouble in Paradise just in time. Ziggler followed right up with the Zig-Zag and scored the pin for the win.

Post-match: Vickie entered the ring to ruin Ziggler's parade by selling she was upset with him for the scolding. Ziggler then raised her arm in the air and she smiled. They replayed the finish of the match before showing Dolph and Vickie hug it out in the ring. Meanwhile, Cole's infatuation with Vickie continued.

WINNER: Dolph Ziggler at 12:45. Nice story and some strong nearfalls throughout the match. They took a while to kick it into second gear, then delivered a strong finish. It will be interesting to see who's next for Ziggler. (**3/4)
 
2 -- C.M. PUNK vs. BIG SHOW

Early on, Show landed a big overhand chop that flipped Punk over the top rope to the floor. Show then rolled him back in, but Punk booted Show in the face to cut him off. Punk tried to win via count-out, but Show slipped back in the ring at nine. Punk then landed kick strikes, but Show shoved him away, so Punk went for a double axe handle from the second rope. Punk tried to stay on Show to keep him on the mat, then went for a springboard move from the top rope, but Show smashed him with a mid-air football tackle. Show got his second wind, then roared like a bear, waited for Punk to turn around, and smashed him with the KO Punch to the face. Show made the cover for the win. Post-match: Show sold the ribs selling Punk's offense on the way out of the ring. Show clutched his mid-section on the way out as Punk remained out cold.

WINNER: Show at 4:40. They tried to give Punk enough offense to remain credibility before the inevitable finish. Time to move on from the program. (*1/2)
 
3 -- U.S. champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- United States Title match

Bryan teased the LeBell Lock early on, so Miz ducked to the outside for a break. Striker put over Bryan's background and training as Bryan landed a running kick strike in the ring. Miz then slingshot Bryan's arm across the top rope and began working on the left arm. Miz followed with a seated full nelson lock to wear down Bryan, who countered into a back slide for a two count. Miz suddenly came back with a boot to the upper body and followed with elbow strikes to the shoulder to re-establish the advantage. Bryan tried to fight back, but Miz cut him off and executed a nice shoulder breaker for a two count. Miz then knocked Bryan to the outside and rolled him back in for a cover resulting in a nearfall.

At 6:00, Miz re-applied a shoulder submission as the crowd rallied behind Bryan. Miz kicked Bryan in the shoulder, but Bryan fired back by flinging Miz to the outside. Bryan then nailed a suicide dive ala Week 1 of NXT on Chris Jericho, which Cole noted. Back in the ring, Bryan landed a top rope missile dropkick for a two count. Bryan continued to sell the left shoulder, then he tried a submission, but Miz kicked him in the shoulder. Bryan came right back with another flying kick strike for a two count.

Miz and Bryan started trading bombs center ring, then Miz landed multiple kick strikes in the corner. The ref pulled Bryan away, then Bryan came running into the corner with a flying kick strike. Bryan measured Miz and landed a KO kick to the face. He made the cover, but Miz kicked out. Bryan then took Miz up top and they started trading bombs before Miz crotched Bryan across the top rope. Miz then came flying off the top turnbuckle with a nice inside-out clothesline. He made a cover, but Bryan kicked out.

At 9:30, Miz sat down on an innovative submission hold. The camera focused in on a big red bump on Bryan's head from leading on his forehead via the inside-out clothesline. Bryan refused to tap out, then Miz released the hold, got the big eyes, stalked Bryan, and measured him for the Skullcrushing Finale. Bryan blocked, though, and rolled through into a close two count. Bryan then teased the LeBell Lock, but Riley got on the apron to distract. Miz then accidentally smashed Riley and Bryan teased a three count on a roll up, but Miz escaped just before three. Miz suddenly snapped and landed multiple left hand blows on Bryan before the ref broke it up. Miz then walked over to Bryan to follow up, but Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock. Miz fought the hold and reached out looking for a rope, but eventually tapped out.

The crowd popped as Bryan took the title and held it up for the crowd while still selling the shoulder. After a replay of the finish, they showed Miz selling deep despair as Cole made excuses for Miz's loss. Bryan was shown holding up the title on the stage to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Bryan at 12:28. That was an excellent match. Some great nearfalls throughout leading to the satisfying finish for the audience that has bought into Bryan as a babyface to rally behind. It was the type of match Miz needs on his resume to be a top star and it was the type of match to confirm Bryan as a future star in WWE. (***3/4)
 
Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 20 2010, 01:05 pm
4 -- Women's champion MICHELLE McCOOL vs. Divas champion MELINA -- Unification Title match -- lumberjills ringside

The match moved to the floor early and often to give the lumberjills camera time. The match settled down with McCool on the offensive cutting off Melina's comeback teases. Melina eventually had a pinfall, but the ref was distracted by the lumberjills ringside. McCool then kicked out in time. Again, chaos broke out, the ref lost control, and Layla snuck in the back door to give the assist to McCool on winning the unification title match. McCool and Layla then took the titles and walked up the ramp to celebrate as the babyface lumberjills consoled Melina in the ring.

WINNER: McCool at 6:36 to become new Unified champion. It will be interesting to see what the future of women's wrestling on the Raw brand will be. Not that WWE has given them any quality focus over the last few years to have a bright future to begin with. (*)
 
5 -- World Hvt. champion KANE vs. THE UNDERTAKER -- World Hvt. Title match

Taker sent Kane reeling into the stage and rammed him into one of the Night of Champions pillars on the stage. Kane came back with a kick to the knees to cut off Taker. They fought on the floor below the stage as Lawler noted they have "seen how hideous their father is." Another subtle Paul Bearer reference. The match moved to the red-carpeted entrance ramp, then to the floor up against the guardrail. Kane dominated as they moved to the ringside area. Kane eventually retrieved the World Title belt and jabbed it into Taker's gut. Striker said it's no holds barred. Since when is using a belt as a weapon a wrestling hold? They eventually entered the ring and Kane landed a flying fist off the top rope for a two count.

At 6:00, Kane continued to dominate with methodical corner offense taking it to Taker before making another cover for a nearfall. Kane took the fight back to the outside and ripped off the cover of the announce table. Kane then chucked it into Taker's face to knock him down again. Kane tried to follow with a whip into the ring steps, but Taker countered to finally get an opening in the match. Taker followed by placing Kane across the apron and landing the big leg drop. Kane was the first one up, though, so Taker got up and clotheslined him over the guardrail nearly into Justin Roberts's lap. Suddenly, Taker got a running start and went flying over the guardrail with a big dive on Kane. Nice. Taker didn't see Kane grab a chair, though, then took the chair to the gut.

Kane and Taker then took their fight deeper into the arena near the production/sound table. Taker knocked down Kane, but Kane came back with an uppercut that floored Taker. They took the fight back toward the ringside area with Taker being uppercut again, this time over the guardrail to the ringside floor. Kane then perched himself on the guardrail and flew off with a fist smash. And they made it back into the ring where Taker stumbled across the ring as Kane sold confidence. Kane landed right hand blows as Taker sold not being able to cover up. Cole said if it were a boxing match, it would have to be called off. That also applies to a wrestling match since it's presented as a simulated fight. Kane eventually landed a succession of right hands that Taker sold terrifically.

Taker asked for more and Kane landed more uppercuts. Taker started firing back with rights and we had our third "trading of right hand bombs" on the PPV tonight. Taker found some offense, but Kane kneed him in the gut. Taker then came flying off the ropes with a clothesline that floored Kane. Taker followed with a corner splash and right hand jabs to the head. Taker then delivered Snake Eyes and the big boot. He dropped a Hogan leg, but Kane kicked out. Taker then teased a chokeslam and delivered it center ring. Taker sold the move as it taking everything out of him, as he backed up to the corner to catch his breath. Taker then went for the Tombstone Piledriver, but Kane countered into the Tombstone. Kane delivered it near the ropes, dragged him back to the middle, and made the cover for a clean pin and the win.

Post-match: The announcers sold that they and the crowd were stunned by this turn of events. Striker said Kane has finally emerged from his brother's shadow. Cole said he's in absolute shock. Kane took the title belt and walked away with a big smile on his face. Cole said Taker might not have been 100 percent, but Kane was dominant tonight. They showed Kane clutching the World Title belt as the announcers continued to put over Kane. Cole asked what's next as they showed Taker pulling himself to the ropes. The lights came back on as they focused on Taker trying to pull himself together. "Is this the end of an era?" Lawler asked. Taker was shown limping down the ramp selling various injuries. He then stopped before reaching the stage and took a knee. He pulled himself up again, then hobbled to the stage as the crowd cheered. They stayed with this all the way until Taker disappeared. Lawler said his powers might be completely sapped.

WINNER: Kane at 18:26 to retain the World Hvt. Title. Another excellent match, this time due to the very strong back-story and WWE really getting over Kane as a dominant force as the champion. It sets up a very intriguing "next chapter" in the story, especially with the Hell in a Cell PPV two weeks away. (***1/2)

6 -- WWE tag champions HART DYNASTY run the gauntlet -- WWE Tag Title match

Lawler noted that whoever came up with the title match concept had it in for Hart Dynasty. Chaos broke out and Tamina helped the Usos score a pin on Kidd. So, there will be new tag champions.

FIRST DECISION: Usos at 2:13. It will be interesting to see where WWE takes the Hart Dynasty from here after the sudden tag title loss basically out of nowhere.

Santino and Kozlov were out next, setting up the intrigue of Tamina being split on who to cheer for. The crowd was hot for Santino, who nearly scored an early fall. Santino then teased the Cobra, but Tamina stepped up on the ring apron to imitate the move. Santino lost his focus and took a Samoan Drop for the next pinfall. The crowd was quite upset at Santino losing.

SECOND DECISION: Usos at 3:18.

Out next were Mark Henry and Evan Bourne. Bourne scored some flashy offense, then Henry tagged in and dominated with power offense. Bourne eventually tagged back in and nailed Air Bourne much to the crowd's delight for the next decision.

THIRD DECISION: Bourne & Henry at 5:11.

Out last were Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes and they quickly went on the offensive working on Bourne. So, one of two unnatural tag teams will be tag champs at the end of this. Rhodes and Mac continued to work over Bourne, who sold and sold and sold until finally landing a double knee strike to the face on Mac. Bourne crawled across the ring to his corner and brought in a fresh Henry. Rhodes bumped for Henry, who then headbutted McIntyre off the apron. Henry followed with a charging corner splash before press-slamming Rhodes down to the mat. Henry then tagged in Bourne, who climbed up top to Henry's shoulders. It took too much time, allowing McIntyre to cut off the move. Rhodes then smashed Bourne with Cross Rhodes and scored the pin for the win. And Rhodes is saddled with the tag titles again. Striker gave a positive spin that Rhodes and McIntyre can appear on Raw now that they have the tag titles.

WINNERS: Rhodes & McIntyre at 11:43. The formula match got the crowd wrapped up in the quick falls, so that was a positive aspect. The tag champs being put in an unfair position wasn't focused on that much by the announcers when they could have hammered home the point about the Raw GM having it in for HD. We'll see where this leads on Raw. I'm not thrilled about Rhodes and McIntyre as tag champs when Rhodes is ready for a singles push, but with a heel IC champion, it's understandable they're holding off on the start of his singles push. (**)
 
Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 20 2010, 01:05 pm
7 -- WWE champion SHEAMUS vs. JOHN CENA vs. RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. EDGE vs. WADE BARRETT -- Six-Pack Challenge for the WWE Title -- Elimination match

Chaos broke out and Jericho scored an early nearfall on Orton. Cole noted the history of the WWE Title and got over the legacy of the belt. There was a Bruno Sammartino reference in there. Jericho and Cena then came face-to-face and teed off on each other. Orton then smashed Jericho with an RKO. Suddenly, a three count and Jericho is gone.

FIRST ELIMINATION: Jericho at 1:30 via Orton. After the pinfall, Jericho knelt down on the mat and sold that he was stunned. Orton simply backed up to the corner and stared at Jericho, who slowly ducked under the ring ropes. Edge sold that he was stunned as the crowd chanted, "Y2J." Lawler said Edge and Jericho were probably planning some sort of alliance in the match. All eyes were on Jericho as he slowly made his way up the entrance ramp to the stage. Jericho finally disappeared as the announcers sold shock over the elimination.

They reset with Wade Barrett suddenly in the middle of a big circle. The other four ganged up on Barrett before Edge and Sheamus clotheslined Barrett over the top rope. Cena and Orton then cleared the ring, bringing the match back to the TV main event Monday night on Raw. Barrett then "spoiled the party" attacking Cena to interrupt the heated stare down. Cena and Orton suddenly delivered simultaneous dropkicks to clear the ring again. Yes, Cena with a dropkick.

Again, Orton and Cena circled around each other before coming face-to-face. Orton teased the RKO, but Cena blocked. Orton then set up Cena for the spike DDT, but Cena teased the AA. Barrett canceled everything out before Sheamus clotheslined Barrett and tried to pin Cena in the ring, but Cena kicked out. Sheamus then went to work on Cena in the ring as the other three men were on the outside. Sheamus teased the High Cross Outsider's Edge from the top turnbuckle, but Cena blocked. Cole slipped in a note that Sheamus has "for all intents and purposes" ended Triple H's career. Edge then entered the ring and cut off Cena at the knee. Cena sold the knee as Sheamus and Edge began to work him over. They wanted a double superplex and executed it. Edge made the cover, but Cena kicked out and rolled to the outside.

Edge and Sheamus then went to the floor and attacked Barrett. They sent him flying into the guardrail, with Barrett making a loud thud crashing into the rail. The next target was Orton, who the heels rolled into the ring and tried to isolate. Orton suddenly came firing out of the corner and went nuts on the heels until Sheamus blind-sided him with a big double axe handle. Edge then went to work on Sheamus, with their alliance out the window. Edge suddenly had eyes for a spear, but Sheamus moved and hit the Irish Curse backbreaker. The intensity suddenly picked up with more men in the ring and some finishing move teases. Cena then smashed Edge with the Attitude Adjustment and made a quick pinfall to eliminate Edge.

SECOND ELIMINATION: Edge at 15:02 via Cena. Barrett finally re-entered the picture, cleared the ring, and went to work on Cena. Barrett wanted the Wasteland overhead backbreaker, but Cena shifted into the AA. Barrett countered with a DDT and made a cover, but Cena kicked out. And now Barrett is in control of the match. Check that, Cena fired back on the offensive and delivered the sit-out slam to set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the AA, then dropped it when Sheamus re-entered. Cena then slapped on the STF on Sheamus. The champ's in trouble. Sheamus teased a tap out, but eventually grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Great nearfall tease.

Suddenly, Nexus members came storming down to ringside. In the confusion, Barrett caught Cena from behind and nailed the Wasteland Slam. Barrett with the cover and Cena is gone, which drew a reaction. THIRD ELIMINATION: Cena via Barrett at 18:32. Nexus then beat down Orton and rolled him into the ring at the feet of Barrett. The crowd came to life rallying behind Orton, then Nexus suddenly got on the ring apron. Out of nowhere, Cena blasted the Nexus members with chair shots. Orton then wildly cleared the ring. Barrett tried to hit Orton with Wasteland, but Orton slipped out and hit a backbreaker. Orton pounded the mat, then waited for Barrett and smashed him with the RKO center ring. FOURTH ELIMINATION: Barrett via Orton at 20:33.

Sheamus snuck back into the ring and waited for Orton to get up, then he absolutely smashed Orton with the Brogue Kick. Sheamus had the pin, but Orton kicked out just before three. Huge pop for the nearfall. Sheamus flipped out, then went for the High Cross, but Orton slipped out and nailed the RKO. Orton with the cover and there's a new WWE champion. The crowd exploded for Orton winning the title. Orton took the belt and posed in the ring as Striker wondered aloud what this means for Hell in a Cell in two weeks. They replayed the highspots of the match, including Nexus costing Cena. (Set up for a match going down at Hell in a Cell.) After the replays, they cut to Orton celebrating the WWE Title victory in the ring. Orton paraded around the ring and soaked in the moment as they stayed with the celebration for a while. No sign of Miz with the MITB cash-in. They replayed the finish again to keep stretching this out with the match ending pretty early. Cole signed off at 9:47 p.m. CST with one more Orton celebration.

WINNER: Orton at 21:27 to capture the WWE Title. Another satisfying match for the audience that bought the PPV to see Orton win the WWE Title. The match had plenty of intriguing developments and the crowd was hot throughout. Very good WWE-style PPV main event. Looking ahead to Hell in a Cell, the match set up a likely Orton vs. Sheamus re-match and perhaps Cena vs. Barrett in the Cell to keep Nexus out. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:33 am
WWE RAW Results: 9-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_44088.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & JOHN MORRISON vs. THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY

Cole noted the "personal services contract" for Riley as Morrison started things off against Riley. Cole also teased a potential Money in the Bank contract cash-in at Hell in a Cell for Miz as the heels cornered Morrison and began working him over. The crowd then reminded Miz of the Night of Champions finish with a "you tapped out" chant to taunt Miz as he continued to work over Morrison. Bryan finally took a tag at 4:30 and cleaned house on the heels, including a snap German Suplex on Miz. Bryan followed with a flying dropkick in the corner for a two count. He teased the LeBell Lock, but Miz threw Bryan away to the apron and Bryan bumped heads with Morrison. Miz capitalized with the Skullcrushing Finale to score the pin for the win.

Post-match: Miz teased leaving the ring, but he walked back over to Bryan and measured him for a punt to the gut. Morrison then made the save and cleared former tag partner to the outside. Suddenly, Bryan came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive on both men. Bryan just snapped and attacked everyone, setting up a fight between Bryan and Morrison. Bryan chucked Morrison over the guardrail, then Miz tackled Bryan. Scrap! Morrison suddenly flew over the guardrail with a splash onto both men. And the GM buzzed to settle them down. Cole walked to the podium and read that Bryan will defend the U.S. Title against Morrison and Miz at the Hell in a Cell PPV. Cole said it will be defended in a match the GM just invented: a triple-threat, submissions count anywhere match. The wrestlers no-sold as they caught their breath following their scrap.

WINNERS: Miz & Riley at 5:12. Rushed set-up for a triple threat match suddenly involving John Morrison. It's a unique match stipulation for the PPV, but the Miz-Bryan feud is strong enough on its own not to require a superfluous stipulation. The match itself felt thrown-together with Bryan suddenly enlisting Morrison's services for a tag match. It was like WWE wanted to arrive at a destination, but had no idea how to get there. (*)

2 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match to the Unified Divas Title

The involved participants were Melina, Natalya, Maryse, Gail Kim, Eve, Tamina, Alicia Fox, Jillian Hall, and the Bellas. No wagering, please. Melina was out first, ending her title chase after an unsuccessful double TV taping. After some rapid-fire eliminations, it came down to Natalya, Alicia, and Jillian. After a typical battle royal tease for Jillian possibly winning, Alicia eliminated her. Natalya then knocked out Alicia and there's a new #1 contender. On commentary, Layla and Michelle McCool seemed nonplussed by Natalya's victory. Natalya then celebrated in the ring while staring down at them.

WINNER: Natalya at 4:23 to become #1 contender. On the surface, it just looks like something for Natalya to do for now. It will be interesting to see if WWE actually gets behind her, though, with a women's division run. (n/a)

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh)

The match spilled to the outside early on with Sheamus getting himself DQ'ed attacking Sheamus with various weapons ringside. Khali had a giant red hand planted on his chest from a Khali chop, which Sheamus used as motivation to destroy Khali ringside. Cole had plenty of adjectives to describe Sheamus's destruction ahead of Hell in a Cell vs. Orton.

WINNER: Khali via DQ at 1:06. It's obvious what they were trying to do making Sheamus seem like a monster and a threat to Orton ahead of the PPV by taking out the giant Khali, but this came across rushed and abrupt. Raw's taped shows typically lack the same pacing to get the stories over, especially trying to hype pay matches. (n/a)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. EDGE

Back from break, the bell sounded as they cut to a shot of Nexus watching intently on a backstage monitor. The announcers recapped Cena having to join Nexus if he loses to Wade Barrett, or Nexus disbands "forever" if Cena wins. Edge quickly took the advantage and flung Cena to the outside when Cena teased an STF out of nowhere. On the outside, Edge rammed Cena into the ring steps as Cole plugged the potential landscape-changing event at Hell in a Cell if Cena loses to Barrett. Back in the ring, Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Edge escaped and dropped Cena for a nearfall. Cole read some "anonymous quotes" from wrestlers in the locker room knocking Nexus and hoping Cena wins at the PPV. He posed a follow-up question on who would step up to challenge Nexus if Cena is forced to join the group.

Cena teased a comeback with the usual routine, but Edge ducked a shoulder block and Edge went back on the offensive. Cole hit the pause button to note tonight's Raw could be Nexus's final Raw. Lawler noted it could be Cena's final night of freedom before wearing a Nexus t-shirt. Edge was selling a left knee injury as he methodically worked over Cena. He attempted a suplex, but Cena countered and both men rested on the mat. Edge regained control again, but couldn't put away Cena. Cole added another stipulation for Hell in a Cell that if Nexus interferes, Cena automatically wins. He said HIAC is a "pivotal PPV to set the stage for the rest of the year in WWE." Hard sell time.

Cena came back to his feet at 6:00 and flew over Edge with a bulldog. Cena then took Edge up top and teased a top rope Attitude Adjustment, but Edge elbowed out and knocked Cena off the turnbuckles. Edge suddenly nailed the spear out of nowhere. Edge made a cover, but Cena had his foot under the rope. The ref counted a three anyways, giving Edge the appearance of a big win.

As Edge celebrated the victory, the Raw GM suddenly buzzed. The modulated GM said Cena's foot was under the bottom rope. They cut to an Instant Replay showing Cena's foot under the rope. Therefore, the match will continue. Edge teased ripping his hair out before going after Cena with right hand blows. Cole noted the inconsistency of the Raw GM suddenly making decisions on matches. The ref then got Cena to his feet. A bell never sounded for the re-start, but, anyways, Cena countered a second spear attempt and slapped on the STF. Edge teased escaping, but Cena yanked him back to center ring. Edge submitted this time, giving Cena the tit-for-tat win.

Post-match: Edge slowly got to his feet and stared at the Raw GM laptop, which had been changed to the desktop screen with no emails up. It doesn't even look like a Mac. It looked like my 1997 Toshiba that I would have donated to be smashed. Edge slowly walked over to the podium as the GM modulated that Edge lost fair and square. Edge teased walking away, per the GM's encouragement. Edge then got that crazy look in his eyes and turned back around to face the podium. The GM noted the crazy eyes before Edge suddenly knocked over the laptop. Edge broke it over his knee before smashing the bits and pieces of the laptop with a chair and an elbow drop. Yes, Ric Flair style on a coat jacket. Edge even bashed the laptop against his forehead, opening up a cut on his forehead. Edge slowly walked away as the camera made sure not to zoom in on the cut. Cole and Lawler said Edge has lost it.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 7:50 total (roughly). Another development for the TV storyline of Edge vs. Raw GM, with Edge scoring a surprise visual pin on Cena right before the PPV. The GM's "modulated voice" development has officially worn out its welcome after one week, but Edge snapping helped provide a hook for next week's show. Of course, that won't sell any PPVs. (**)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:33 am
5 -- NEXUS (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/Nexus) vs. EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY

Lawler, via voice-over, plugged his appearance at Madison Square Garden on Saturday for Bret Hart Appreciation night where he was special referee for Nexus vs. the Harts. Nexus worked over Bourne early on before Henry tagged in and cleaned house. Henry press-slammed Gabriel, then positioned him in the corner of the ring. Henry pointed for Bourne to go up top and he tagged him in. Suddenly, Slater entered the ring and took out Henry. Gabriel recovered and chopped down Bourne, then went up top and tried the 450 Splash, but Bourne moved. Bourne suddenly came to life and sprung back up top. Bourne wanted Air Bourne and connected on Gabriel. He made the cover, but Slater quietly pushed Gabriel on top of Bourne for a roll-up victory.

WINNERS: Nexus at 3:15. A set up for the post-match... (*1/4)

6 -- Unified WWE tag champions CODY RHODES & DREW MCINTYRE vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) -- WWE Tag Title match

Cole said he was a bit hard on the Harts last week on Raw during their commentary stint. He apologized "for some of the things he said" before heeling on them that they were boring on commentary. Rhodes and Kidd started things off against each other as Cole confused Kidd and Smith's performances on commentary. Mac and Rhodes began tagging in and out working over Kidd as Lawler wanted to know who decided Rhodes should be called "dashing." Smith eventually tagged in as the announcers continued to focus on Rhodes's gimmick. Is anyone aware that titles are on the line here? Smith scored a nearfall as Lawler brought it back home that the tag titles are on the line. Suddenly, the Harts had a miscommunication on an attempted Hart Attack and Rhodes hit the Cross Rhodes on Kidd for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Kidd and Smith had an argument over the failed Hart Attack attempt. Natalya tried to calm down Smith, who pulled his hand away and stormed off. Kidd and Natalya acted stunned as Smith stomped off.

WINNERS: Rhodes & McIntyre at 3:11 to retain the WWE Tag Titles. It's so annoying, unproductive, and inefficient when a title match is occurring and the announcers fail to focus on the fact that titles are being competed for, especially when the match is reaching its climax and the announcers are still discussing grooming tips. It's like Cole slipped into calling a turn-your-brain-off Superstars match. This is one of many reasons why titles continue to be devalued in pro wrestling when it can easily be avoided. As for the Harts, does WWE really need to tease another tag team break-up storyline? (n/a; F- for production of this segment.)

7 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- non-title match -- Jericho with opportunity to become #1 contender

The bell sounded and Cole noted Jericho is trying to get his career back on track after being in a "downward spiral." Orton dominated early on before Jericho used the ref as a distraction to take control of the match. The match moved to the floor where Jericho continued to work over Orton before they cut to break.

Orton was in control back from break as #1 contender Sheamus walked out on stage to get a closer look at the action. Sheamus inched forward down the ramp, allowing Jericho to drop Orton with an enziguiri kick to regain control. Jericho then choked Orton across the bottom rope to wear down Orton. Orton then teased an RKO back on his feet, but Jericho countered into a backslide for a two count. Jericho settled back into a reverse chinlock before lowering his knee pad to drop a bare knee to the face. Meanwhile, another Mick Foley reference as Cole re-lived Hell in a Cell history with Taker throwing Foley off the top of the Cell to plug the PPV on Sunday.

Orton made a comeback at 10:00 and landed his trademark powerslam off the ropes. Orton started frothing at the mouth before whipping Jericho across the ring, only to have Jericho block and nail a bulldog. Jericho teased the Lionsault, Orton avoided, and hit his fallaway backbreaker. Orton suddenly tried the RKO, but Jericho shoved him off and hit the Lionsault (yes, he connected with the Lionsault) for a close nearfall.

Orton suddenly caught Jericho on the apron and teased the spike DDT, but Jericho blocked and teased the Walls of Jericho. Orton was center ring with nowhere to go as he grunted in the middle of the hold. Orton tried to break free, then turned onto his back and kicked Jericho out of the hold to the outside. Jericho tried to run back into the ring, but Orton caught him and nailed the big spike DDT. Orton then entered IED mode as the crowd came to life. They shrieked as Sheamus entered the ring. Orton knocked him away (the match was thrown out), then he gave Sheamus the spike DDT off the second rope.

Post-match: Orton measured Sheamus for the big Punt, but Jericho suddenly snuck in with a codebreaker on Orton. Jericho sneered down at Orton, then he retrieved a chair from ringside. The crowd cried for Orton to come alive as Jericho measured the babyface for the KO chair shot. Orton saw Jericho on the Titantron, then ducked a chair shot and delivered an RKO on Jericho. Orton lost control, then suddenly gathered his thoughts and stared at Jericho. The crowd chanted, "Punt, Punt, Punt," as Orton backed up. Orton then measured Jericho and delivered a KO Punt to the head, complete with added sound effect to sell the move. The crowd popped initially before going quiet. Sheamus was shown staring into the ring selling disbelief at what Orton just did.

After the dust settled, Orton stared down at Sheamus before Orton's music hit. Cole said it was a direct message sent to Sheamus. Orton slowly nodded his head as if to say Sheamus is next at the PPV. They went to a few replays of the Punt to show Jericho getting his head rocked. Medics eventually entered the ring to check on Jericho and bring out the stretcher. Cole said Orton is not an honorable man and every bit as ruthless and barbaric and lethal and remorseful as Sheamus is, if not more. Cole gave a final plug for Orton vs. Sheamus in "Orton's playground" at HIAC as they closed with a shot of...referee Charles Robinson selling concern over the not-pictured Jericho to close the show.

WINNER: Orton via DQ (or another Raw TV main event No Contest) at 13:15. A lot of elements in play here. Orton is acting more like a heel, which may or may not bode well trying to sell the PPV, Jericho was written off TV temporarily, so that story was given focus, and Sheamus isn't exactly being positioned as a threat to Orton right now. It was a good TV ending to lead into next week, but I didn't think it was a money-making ending. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:35 am
WWE NXT Results: 9-28-10

While you can read what happened on last night's show via Caldwell's complete report at PWTorch.com (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_44124.shtml), there were no wrestling matches on the show last night, only two challenges. Here's the updated Season 3 Scoreboard after Week 4:
-- A.J.: 3 points
-- Naomi: 2 points
-- Kaitlyn: 2 points
-- Jamie: 1 point

Last night's final episode of NXT on Syfy scored a 0.7 rating and averaged 964,000 viewers over the course of the show.

It was the first time an episode of NXT averaged fewer than 1.00 million viewers, making it the least-watched episode of NXT on Syfy to conclude the series's cable TV run.

The previous NXT low was 1.00 million viewers on May 4 during Season One. The Season Two low was 1.05 million viewers on June 29.

The following is a break down of the four-episode run for NXT Season Three on Syfy:

Sept. 7: 1.15 million viewers
Sept. 14: 1.21 million viewers
Sept. 21: 1.05 million viewers
Sept. 28: 964,000 viewers
Season 3 average: 1.09 million viewers
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:37 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 9-27-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report) (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10014302.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli) defeated the Super Smash Brothers (Player Uno and Player Dos) in a non-title match in 6:55. Dos was competitive with Hero for the first minute or so, and when Uno tagged in, they hit a couple nice double-teams.

Claudio tagged in and the KOW went right back in control. He hit a military press slam on Uno for a two count. Dos got a hot tag and hit a twisting body press to Hero the floor and Evan Bourne style double knees to Claudio in the ring for a two count. Dos went up top but Claudio hit an uppercut, then another, and then a superplex followed by a Hero top rope moonsault for the pinfall victory.

Joe's Judgment: The SSB are underutilized, Dos in particular. Solid seven minute match and the Kings were great as usual.

2. Daizee Haze defeated Rachel Summerlyn in 3:42. Summerlyn dominated the opening minutes, with a fisherman neckbreaker type of thing getting a two count. Both women tried to get a backslide, and Summerlyn turned it into a Gory Bomb for a two count. Summerlyn reversed a Daizee German suplex for another two count, but in the end Daizee hit the Heart Punch and then a German for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: That was pretty damn good compared to what I was expecting. If ROH could start to take women's wrestling seriously, it could be a selling point.

3. Steve Corino defeated an unnamed wrestler in 2:09. Steen did running commentary on the live mic. Corino did the octopus stretch bit where he puts his thumb in inappropriate places on the other wrestler's body. Steen yelled "that's what he did to your mother last Wednesday, and she loved it."

Corino eventually won with a sliding lariat and pulled out a fork, but Colt Cabana ran out for the save, followed by El Generico. Colt told Corino to get in the ring, but Corino declined.

Joe's Judgment: Steen should do commentary on every match. Like last week, more time for the post-match would have been nice, but it was effective for the short allotted time.

4. Roderick Strong and the House of Truth (Christian Able and Josh Raymond) defeated Christopher Daniels and the Briscoes in 14:44. Raymond started with Daniels and was destroyed. Jay Briscoe tagged in and Raymond tagged in Able. Strong tagged in at 4:00 and Mark hit some redneck kung fu, but Strong eventually gained control.

At 5:30, the HOT hit a pretty nice double team on Daniels, but he kicked out at two. Jay Briscoe tagged in and the Briscoes double teamed Raymond briefly. Shortly after Strong beat on Mark and Able tagged in. Mark hit a neckbreaker and tried to make a hot tag, but Strong knocked both off the apron.

Strong controlled Mark for another couple minutes, and just when Mark was starting to make a comeback, he missed a crossbody, but made the tag to Daniels just seconds later. Daniels cleaned house on the entire HOT and hit the Fall From Grace on Strong. Jay hit a Death Valley Driver on Able, but Raymond did his shooting star crossbody on Jay. Mark threw him to ringside and hit a top rope moonsault to the outside.

In the ring, Truth missed a Book of Truth shot. Roderick went for a backbreaker of some sort, but Daniels rolled him up for a really good nearfall, and then again for a less good nearfall. He ran the ropes for something, and Truth tripped him, leading to Roddy hitting the gutbuster for the three count.

Joe's Judgment: Love Raymond and Able getting the rub from the world champ. Love the idea of Strong vs. Daniels. Love Strong going over. But the match itself... while it was far from bad, it could have been better. It felt like they never got out of second gear. Still a fun main event to a solid show that concentrated on all the right angles.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:39 am
WWE Superstars Results: 9-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_44177.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BELLA TWINS (w/Jamie Keyes) vs. JILLIAN HALL & ALICIA FOX (w/Maxine)

The boilerplate match started off with a basic beginning as the Bellas took control of the match. The numbers game eventually caught up to the Bellas, allowing the heels to tag in and out trying to score a pin. Eventually, the match broke down into a four-way brawl until the Bellas pulled a switcheroo behind the ref's setting up a sunset flip pin on Alicia for the win. The Bellas and Jamie then celebrated on the outside as Jillian sold that she was dumbfounded by the latest turn of events against her involving the Bellas.

WINNERS: Bellas in 4:00. The story is like Tom & Jerry where the Bellas always find a way to outsmart Jillian and poor Jillian can't figure it out. (*)

2 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Let's see if they can duplicate the very good TV wrestling match they had on Smackdown a few weeks ago. Similar start with Swagger using his size and amateur background to take control of the match early on. Swagger landed a series of shoulder blocks, then Kingston kicked Swagger to the outside. Swagger caught his breath as Kingston waited for him to get back into the ring. Swagger eventually re-entered and kicked Kingston in the gut to slow him down. They cut to break with Swagger staring down at Kingston while in control of the match.

Swagger was in control back from break as the announcers focused on the match taking similar form to their match two weeks ago. "Can Swagger put Kofi away this time?" Grisham asked. Swagger tried the Anklelock at 10:00, but Kingston escaped, only to have Swagger shove his leg into the mat and applying pressure using his knee. Kofi escaped again, then went up top for a flying chop. Kofi landed chest chops, then a leaping tomahawk chop.

Kingston followed with the Boom Drop and went to the corner to set up Trouble in Paradise. Swagger ducked, but Kofi hit a flying cross-body block for a two count. Kingston tried a springboard back elbow, but Swagger blocked and shoved Kingston into the corner. Kingston positioned himself in the corner and Swagger followed with a Vader Bomb attempt, but Kofi blocked. Swagger then grabbed Kofi's leg for an Anklelock, but Kofi countered into a roll-up for a close two count. Good sequence.

Swagger teased a gutwrench powerbomb on the follow-up, but Kofi hit the STO. Well, it appeared that way, but Swagger rolled through into the Anklelock. Kofi reached the bottom rope for a break, but Swagger wouldn't release the hold, and he was DQ'ed on a five count. Swagger released the hold moments later, but Kofi was declared the winner. Kofi then regrouped on the floor selling the ankle work while Swagger seemed to be in an alternative state. On the outside, Swagger grabbed his prey and re-applied the Anklelock on the floor. Kofi screamed in pain as Striker suggested Swagger is trying to send a message to the "WWE Board of Directors" that he would like to be considered for a World Title shot. Swagger eventually dropped the hold as Kingston continued to sell on the floor. They ended the show with Swagger staring straight ahead with a demented, heelish look on his face heading to Smackdown tomorrow night.

WINNER: Kingston via DQ in 13:00. Another good match between these two. It didn't have that "big match" feel and wasn't given enough time to be quite at the level of their Smackdown match, but they had a very strong finishing sequence leading to Swagger getting over his heel persona and getting sympathy on Kofi in the end. Strong match to lead into the live Smackdown. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:40 am
TNA Impact! Results: 9-30-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article10014367.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Tommy Dreamer and Rhino defeated Beer Money in a lumberjack match in 5:35. A.J. Styles, Matt Morgan, Ric Flair, Douglas Williams, Sabu, Raven, Mick Foley, Stevie Richards, and Brian Kendrick served as the lumberjacks. Taz was quick to explain the rules of the match during the opening minute. Tenay hyped next week's live show and the $100,000 battle royal. He also hyped the release of Foley's book for tomorrow in all major book stores.

Routine tag action early. Dreamer got a nice reaction when he entered the match at 4:00. A short time later, Rhino and Robert Roode tumbled over the top, which led to the the lumberjacks brawling. In the end, Storm missed a beer bottle shot and took Dreamer's finisher before being pinned. Afterward, Sabu performed a big dive onto the brawling lumberjacks at ringside.

Mick Foley took the mic and said he doesn't want to see anymore fighting. He said he wants two men in the ring - himself and Ric Flair. Foley said it's time for them to resolve their differences. Foley invited Flair to join him inside the ring. Foley instructed EV2 to step aside for Flair...

Powell's POV: Tenay's hype for Foley and Flair was terrible before the break. He said something about it being 20 years in the making and then delivered the rest of the line with the same passion he'd use to tease a squash match coming up after the break. If viewers sense that the announcer doesn't think it's a huge deal, why should they think it's a big deal? Anyway, the tag match was fine, but I hate the idea of a non-tag team getting the win over the best team in the business.

2. Generation Me defeated Ink Inc. in 4:55. Ordinary tag action without much heat. There was a cool spot late in the match where Moore performed a double huracanrana on his opponents. In the end, Max Buck caught Moore with a low blow while his brother distracted the ref, which led to the pin.

Afterward, Generation Me were setting up Moore for the move they used on the Motor City Machine Guns, but the Guns came out and ran them off. Generation Me lied on the stage while the Guns made silly looking mean faces. The Guns got the tag title belt back that Generation Me stole from them...

Powell's POV: Moore and Generation Me worked well together. Moore is underrated in the ring, and he's obviously carrying the green Jesse Neal at this point. I'm not crazy about Moore's look or the Ink Inc. gimmick, but it's a wise pairing of the veteran worker with the green rookie.

3. Mr. Anderson pinned Samoa Joe in 4:05. Pope and the announcers spoke about the Miss Tessmacher situation that was brought up last week. Anderson hit Joe with the Mic Check and pinned him clean. After the match, Kevin Nash came to ringside with Sting's baseball bat and told Joe, who was still in the ring, to join them...

Powell's POV: I generally dig Pope's mic work, but this was not good placement. He distracted from what should have been portrayed as a big match between two of the company's top stars. Sadly, the live crowd wasn't really into the action. Anderson is the title match so he couldn't be pinned in this match, but I was surprised to see Joe lose clean in a forgettable match.

A.J. Styles (w/Ric Flair, Matt Morgan) beat Brian Kendrick to retain the TNA TV Title in 4:20.the match was starting, Flair joined the announcers and cut a brief promo about his match against Foley. Kendrick wore his silly looking karate gi and wrestling shoes outfit to the ring.

At 3:30, Kendrick had Styles down. He went to the top rope and dove onto Morgan instead of Styles. Moments later, Kendrick went back up top, but Morgan crotched him while Flair distracted the referee. Styles hit the Styles Clash and got the win...

Powell's POV: So disappointing. Kendrick vs. Styles should be a great match, but I can't take Kendrick seriously in that bad Jedi ninja outfit. We're supposed to think he's crazy and unpredictable, but he just looks low budget and ridiculous.

5. Kurt Angle fought Abyss to an apparent no-contest in a cage match in 17:30. For some reason, Abyss was allowed to leave Janice in his corner. Angle got control of the match and picked up the weapon. Rather than strike Abyss with it, he threw the weapon over the top of the cage. Fortunately, not one died, as it landed safely on the floor.

Abyss rammed Angle into the cage. Angle bladed heavily. Later, Abyss went for a move off the ropes, but Angle recovered and hit the Angle Slam on Abyss. Angle climbed to the top of the cage. Abyss chokeslammed the referee. Tenay said they were out of time on Impact, but Reaction was starting right now.

TNA Reaction

Angle jumped off the top of the cage. Abyss tried to catch him and turn it into the Black Hole Slam. Angle landed awkwardly. Abyss rammed Angle into the cage. With the ref down, Abyss chokeslammed Angle. Abyss tried to revive the referee. He then frisked him. The announcers assumed he was looking for the keys to the cage.

Mr. Anderson's music played and he came to the ring and climbed over the top of the cage. Anderson entered the ring and punched Abyss repeatedly. The announcers assumed Anderson got involved because he respects Angle. Abyss fought back and hit the Black Hole Slam on Anderson.

Abyss went to the door of the cage and started shaking it. He lifted it up and the door came off its hinges. It looked really weak. Abyss shoved the door aside and headed to ringside where he grabbed the weapon he can't hit anyone with because he'd kill them. Angle recovered and fought Abyss when he headed toward the ring.

Angle ended up with Janice in his hand. Abyss started to leave and they cut to a preview for TNA Reaction. One of the teases was for "TNA executive Vince Russo with some shocking comments for Eric Bischoff"...

Powell's POV: A cage match without an f'n finish? You've got to be kidding me. Strong work from both men with the exception of that ridiculous leap off the top of the cage into an attempted Black Hole Slam. For that matter, Abyss lifting up the door, er, ripping it off its hinges looked really campy. These two worked well together, though, but TNA has to stop ruining gimmick matches. Overall, a ton of talk on tonight's show prior to the main event. Isn't that what Reaction is for? Entertaining at times, but the finish of the main event left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2010, 12:42 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-1-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_44199.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MVP vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Fireman’s carry take-over by Ziggler for a quick one-count. Standing elbowdrop for a two-count from the champion. Vickie Guerrero was at ringside with Ziggler. He went for a sleeper-hold early on, but MVP got out and landed a few German suplexes. Running boot to the face for a near-fall. Ziggler ducked a clothesline but fell victim to an overhead throw. Ziggler rolled to ringside when Nexus walked out. They (sans Wade Barrett) attacked Ziggler to draw the DQ.

WINNER: No Contest (possibly Ziggler by DQ), at 1:37. Interesting way to end the first match on SyFy. They’re positioning Nexus as a big deal here.

2 – MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA & ALICIA FOX & MARYSE vs. NATALYA & BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA & KELLY KELLY

Grisham and Cole once again discussed Mick Foley’s book, “Countdown to Lockdown,” out today. Natalya gave Maryse an impressive-looking sit-down slam and used some high impact moves to keep Maryse down. She went for the Sharpshooter early on, but McCool ran in and broke it up. The Bellas landed a double dropkick on McCool and the match broke down quickly. Layla celebrated taking Natalya off the apron, but Hornswoggle, from under the ring, grabbed her by the ankles and tripped her up. He ran after Layla, but McCool kicked him right in the chest to knock him down. Baseball slide by Natalya took out LayCool. Maryse, the other legal Diva, went for her DDT on Natalya, but Nattie countered and applied the Sharpshooter for the submission win.

WINNERS: Natalya, Brie and Nikki Bella, and Kelly Kelly, at 2:34. A lot going on in this one, and none of it too interesting.

3 – NEXUS vs. THE BIG SHOW – FIVE-ON-ONE HANDICAP MATCH

Nexus came out, and as they did, they showed a replay of Nexus’ attack from earlier tonight. Slater and Gabriel held Show’s legs from the outside as Show was stranded in the corner, at the mercy of the rest of Nexus. Each member of Nexus hooked an arm or a leg of Show as he laid on the ground, with Barrett putt Show in a head-scissors. He couldn’t tap out but seemed to lose consciousness, so the ref called for the bell.

WINNERS: Nexus, at 1:30. Not much to it, but it did put Nexus over strong.

4 – CM PUNK vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Punk aggressively went after Taker in the corner until he was admonished by referee Mike Chioda. Taker grabbed Punk and just tossed him over the top rope and to the outside. Next, he threw Punk into the barricade. He did some of his vintage offense, including going Old School. He missed a corner charge, though, and Punk lightly applied the boots to Taker’s midsection. Shoulders to the gut in the corner, then a running knee to the face and a bulldog that Taker sold….well, not prettily. However, Taker did the zombie sit-up and Punk’s reaction was priceless. Taker went back on the attack and signaled for the chokeslam. That connected. It was followed successfully by the Tombstone for the victory.

WINNER: Undertaker, at 4:20. Not a great sign for Punk, but at least he got a high-profile match here. He seems to be in limbo right now without the Straight Edge Society with him.

5 – RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES

Interesting match here. Rhodes was seconded by Drew McIntyre. Orton got the early advantage, but as he stalked Rhodes on the outside, McIntyre distracted him long enough for Rhodes to shove Orton into the ring post. Orton worked out of a rest-hold, and dodged Rhodes’ springboard kick. He laned the back-breaker, then an RKO out of nowhere. That did it.

WINNER: Orton, at 2:22.

After the match, McIntyre attacked, but before he could stick Orton with his DDT, Orton reversed it and gave McIntyre the RKO. Sheamus ran out and showed off his fiery red hand that he talked about, with his right arm covered in red padding up to the elbow. He attacked Orton with it, then gave him a Brogue Kick.

6 – KANE vs. JOHN CENA – LUMBERJACK MATCH

Kane put the boots to a fallen Cena in the corner to start things off. Low dropkick from Kane, then a two-count. Kane continued the assault unabated for the first few minutes. He tossed Cena to ringside, where the sharks that are Nexus went on the attack. Eventually they did throw him back in the ring, where Kane took back over on offense. They went to break a little over two minutes into the match.

Kane continued to hold Cena down on the mat as they returned from break. Cena finally went on offense after a missed move by Kane. He hit his pet moves and sent Kane to the outside. Nexus paused and Kane fought them off. Cena then went out on the other side and fought off Nexus himself as well. He started backing up the ramp, away from the match for some reason. As he did this, Undertaker’s bell tolled and the lights went out. When they came on, Taker was standing behind Kane. Taker went to work with rights on Kane. No bell, but let’s assume this was a DQ.

WINNER: Kane, at 7:51. This no-decision nonsense is exactly what James Caldwell and I discussed on the Livecast today. Once in a while it’s OK, but when every TV main event ends with no decision, it is certainly exasperating.

Kane and Taker continued to fight, going through the crowd. Taker seemed to have the advantage at first, but Kane did fight back and they continued to trade blows. Back at ringside, Taker slammed Kane’s head into the steel steps. Taker mounted Kane at ringside and reigned blows down upon his brother. Kane got the better of Taker once they got into the ring, but Taker did his sit-up and Paul Bearer entered the ring with the urn. He held it high over his head, and Taker grabbed Kane by the throat. He then hit the chokeslam. Kane slinked away from the ringside area as Taker stood in the ring. Kane vowed to finish Taker this Sunday, but Taker’s music played as he posed in front of Bearer and the urn. They signed off at this point.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 04 2010, 01:11 pm
WWE Hell In A Cell PPV Results: 10-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_44233.shtml)

1 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. THE MIZ vs. JOHN MORRISON -- U.S. Title Match - Submissions Count Anywhere

During Morrison's ring entrance, they showed Jerry Lawler, Cole, and Matt Striker at ringside. What if the alarming drop in PPV buys lately is because so few people want to spend three hours of their lives with Striker being Striker? Cole went into his anti-Bryan bit, saying his dream ends tonight and he's going home without gold. Miz walked out and said: "This is ridiculous. I was the mentor of both of you. Neither you would be here if it weren't for me." He said without either of them, he'd still be a huge star in WWE "because I have 'it.' I have the star quality." He predicted he'll walk out as the U.S. Champion. He declared: "I never tap out because I am the Miz and I'm awesome." Lawler said Cole had goosebumps. Cole said Miz is fantastic and the future of pro wrestling.

The match began at 8:07 p.m. Miz ran from Morrison. Bryan battled Morrison in some chain wrestling as Miz observed from ringside. Cole hyped a number of countries WWE is watched in. It's not bad to push how many countries they're seen in, but anyone who posts on YouTube tonight might end up being seen in a few dozen countries by the end of this PPV, too, so it doesn't mean what it once did. Miz went after Morrison at 3:00. Bryan intervened and applied Cattle Mutilation on Miz. Cole couldn't believe that's what it was called. It's a strange name for a move applied by a vegan. Miz reached the bottom rope to force a break. Bryan threw some round kicks to Miz's chest. Then he settled into a leglock. Miz screamed in pain and tried to roll free. They kicked each other in the head with their free leg repeatedly. Morrison re-entered and gave a corkscrew moonsault to both men, breaking up the hold. Morrison then applied a leglock on Bryan. Miz broke it up at 5:00.

Miz and Morrison brawled into the crowd. Miz applied an armbar. Morrison slapped his way free. Miz put Morrison in a modified Dragon Sleeper up against a guard rail. Bryan broke it up. Miz threw Bryan face-first into the trash can. He slapped him and then called a spot. Bryan took him down with an armbar. Morrison joined in and they brawled onto the stage. Morrison threw Miz behind the stage lighting area. Then he leaped off the hockey boards with a roundkick. Miz charged at Morrison with an equipment box on wheels. He threw Bryan onto it and rolled it into the ramp. Morrison leaped over the box and kicked Miz, then surprised Miz with a leglock submission. Bryan intervened. Miz gave Morrison the Skull Crushing Finale on the floor at 10:00.

Miz and Bryan knocked each other down with simultaneous clotheslines. Morrison then climbed up the stage set and leaped off of it onto Miz and Bryan as they stood up, landing mostly on Miz. All three were slow to get up. They replayed the dive from two angles. Morrison got up and applied a Texas cloverleaf. As Miz seemed on the verge of tapping, Alex Riley interfered. Bryan jumped Riley and knocked him into the cameraman near by. Brian applied his Lebell Lock on the stage. Miz yelled for about five seconds and then tapped out. Because Brian made Miz tap out again, Cole conceded: "I admit it, Daniel Bryan is the real deal. I still think he's a nerd."

WINNER: Bryan to retain the U.S. Title in 14:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/2 -- Very good opener. Good mix of innovative submissions along with some big highspots and a satisfying finish.

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS -- WWE Title Match

When was the last time the WWE Title was defended on the second match on a show (perhaps not counting the Royal Rumble PPVs)? Sheamus came out first. Orton got a nice pop when his music played. Orton smiled with his eyes as he stared at Sheamus inside the Cell. During ring intros, Orton and Sheamus stared each other down about two feet from one another. The crowd chanted "RKO! RKO!" as the bell rang to start the match at 8:33 p.m. Cole said this match is so dangerous, there have only been 20 of them. I bet there have been fewer lingerie matches in WWE, so does that make a lingerie match even more dangerous?

Cole noted that Orton said he'll do anything, regardless of honor, to win this match, and that makes him especially dangerous in a Cell. At 1:00 Orton clotheslined Sheamus over the top rope to the floor. Sheamus threw Orton into the Cell wall, then entered the ring. At 4:00 they returned to ringside where Sheamus reverse whipped Orton into the cage and then clotheslined him. He picked up the ringside steps and threw them toward Orton, but Orton ducked out of the way. He then picked up Sheamus and rammed him into the wall of the cage twice. Striker said it'll be interesting how Sheamus feels after getting his first taste of the Cell. Orton picked up the ringside steps and hit Sheamus in the head with them. This is where WWE loses a lot of fans because they want to see blood in these situations. Sheamus reversed an Orton suplex attempt and then knocked him off the ring apron into the cage at 6:00.

Sheamus went on methodical offense against Orton. He removed a turnbuckle pad, but Orton blocked Sheamus's attempt to ram his head into the exposed turnbuckle. At 10:00 Sheamus remained in control inside the ring, mixing stomps and mat holds. Orton made a comeback at 11:00 and knocked Sheamus into the corner without the turnbuckle pad. Both were slow to get up. They exchanged punches in center-ring. Orton slipped out of Sheamus's arms and hit two clotheslines and a snap powerslam and a belly-to-belly for a two count. Orton was selling a lingering rib injury. Sheamus went for a one-arm slam, but Orton elbowed free and then set up for the RKO. Sheamus blocked it and then sent Orton into the ropes and hit him with a knee to his injured ribs on the rebound.

Sheamus brought the base of the ringside steps into the ring. Orton escaped a slam attempt and then powerslammed Sheamus onto it. Orton snapped Sheamus's neck over the top rope and then dragged him off the ring apron with a DDT onto the floor. Orton continued to sell his ribs. Sheamus got up and shoved Orton into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Sheamus climbed onto the steps with Orton in hand. He gave him a backbreaker. The announcers had to explain how that hurt more because there was no give underneath Sheamus's feet upon impact unlike on the mat. Sheamus then gave Orton his thrust kick tot he jaw for a believable near fall at 18:00. Orton's kickout got a nice pop from the crowd.

Sheamus grabbed a chair at ringside. He bashed Orton across the back and hip with it several times, then made another cover for a two count. Sheamus grew frustrated. Sheamus wildly swung a chair at Orton, but Orton ducked and he hit a sudden RKO. Sheamus rolled out of the ring. Orton was disappointed he couldn't make the cover. He followed Sheamus to the floor. Orton rolled to the floor and set up a punt kick. Sheamus, though, avoided the kick and then countered immediately with a thrust kick to Orton's face.

Sheamus rolled Orton into the ring and made the cover. Orton kicked out right before three at 21:00. Sheamus pounded the mat in frustration. He got up, played to the crowd, and moved the ring step base to center-ring again. Sheamus set up his High Cross, but Orton countered by sweeping Sheamus's legs. Some fans chanted "RKO! RKO!" Orton delivered with an RKO on the steps. He covered Sheamus and scored the three count.

Orton held the title belt in the air afterward and let a little half smile escape. He wrapped the title belt around his waist and then climbed the cage. He walked on top of the roof and held his belt in the air.

WINNER: Orton in 23:00.

STAR RATING: **** -- Very good title match. Not a match of the year contender (some bleeding would have helped in that regard), but nothing to complain about. Two pros putting on a good match.

3 -- JACK SWAGGER vs. EDGE

The bell rang to start the match at 9:13 p.m. Swagger went on early offense, but Edge made a comeback at 1:00. Striker said Cole reads those emails with such enthusiasm. Cole said he is just doing his job. Swagger dominated the first five minutes including a body scissors mid-ring. Edge attempted a comeback at 6:00, but Swagger blocked an leglock attempt. He countered by slamming Swagger back-first drop-slam to the mat and leveraged him into a two count. Swagger countered with an anklelock. Edge grabbed the bottom rope to force a break.

Edge climbed to the top rope at 8:00 and hit a flying dropkick. Cole said it's not often you see Edge climb to the top rope. Edge scored a two count. Not a ton of heat because, well, once again Edge turned without turning and this match wasn't scheduled (and therefore lacking that anticipation build-up over time). Edge climbed to the top again, but Swagger charged at him and threw him quickly to the mat. Swagger scored a two count. Edge came back and set up a spear a minute later, but Swagger side-stepped it and turned it into a gut-wrench powerbomb for a near fall at 11:00. Edge went one way and Swagger the other as Swagger went for a Dragon screw. Edge's knee torqued bad, but he apparently was okay as Swagger moved in with an anklelock. Edge grabbed the bottom rope, but Swagger dragged him back to the middle. Edge escaped on his own and hit a spear for the win.

WINNER: Edge in 12:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Good action, but felt a little flat for some reason despite a solid effort from the two wrestlers.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 04 2010, 01:13 pm
4 -- JOHN CENA vs. WADE BARRETT -- Hell in a Cell Match with Special Stips

After a video recap of their feud, Barrett walked out to the ring first. Cena ran to the ring as Cole said Cena has been the poster child of WWE and "embodies everything this company stands for." He said tonight he puts it all on the line because if he loses, he must join Nexus (whatever that means, since they've left it to fans' imaginations what that entails). The bell rang to start the match at 9:34 p.m. They opened with a collar and elbow which Barrett quickly turned into a headlock. Cena countered quickly with an armbar. Cena leapfrogged Barrett and then hit a dropkick leading to a two count at 2:00. Striker said, "I can't believe I'm saying this, but Cena is out-grappling Wade Barrett."

At 4:00 Cena lifted Barett for the Attitude Adjustment, at which point the rest of Nexus came to ringside. Cena dropped Barrett and turned toward them. Barrett hit Cena from behind, then jumped to ringside to scold Nexus for coming to ringside despite his instructions. Barrett whipped Cena into the ringside barrier and then yelled at the rest of Nexus again asking them who was in charge. He threw Cena into the ring and made the cover. Cena kicked out at two. Barrett methodically fended off Cena's comeback attempts and remained on offense. A "Let's Go Cena" chant broke out at 7:00. Striker said every WWE Superstar has vested interest in the outcome of this match. Cole said they're glued to monitors backstage. Striker wondered if Cena would be subservient to Barrett if he's forced to join Nexus or if he'd try to lead it. Striker said he's intrigued by the possibility.

Cena made a comeback at 8:00 with two flying shoulder tackles and a sideslam. He signaled for the You Can't See Me routine and then dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Big Show ran to ringside and attacked Nexus. Mark henry, Goldust, The Hart Dynasty, Kofi Kingston, Bryan, Chris Masters, Dolph Ziggler, Morrison, MVP, and Evan Bourne ran out and attacked the ringside Nexus members. As Cena watched wiht a smile, Cole said the playing field is even again. Cena then went for an STF, but a rested Barrett kicked out and sidekicked Cena in the gut. He then slammed Cena and scored a two count.

As Barrett continued a run of offense, Striker pointed out the young boys and women were cheering Cena while the men were cheering Barrett. Lawler said, "Your point?" It's not often, if ever, the announcers get that specific with detailing the crowd split with Cena. Barrett set Cena on the top rope, but Cena knocked Barrett down when he met him up there. He followed with a top rope legdrop to the back of Barrett's shoulders, which led to a two count. At 16:00 Cena lifted Barett for a AttAdj, but Barrett escaped and gave Cena his Wasteland finisher. "Oh no! Oh no!" said Cole, but Cena kicked out. Everyone took a deep breath - the wrestlers, fans, and announcers.

When Barrett stood, Cena surprised him with an AttAdj for a believable near fall. Striker said Barrett is as tough as they come. Cole asked, "Can you believe this match?" It has been good, with the match stipulation really adding to the drama of each near fall. Cena slipped on an STF next in mid-ring. Cole called for Barrett to tap out. A "fan" slipped the ring. The referee smothered him. Cena released the hold. A security guard joined the ref in subduing the "fan." Then someone else blind-sided Cena with a weapon. Cole asked, "What the hell just happened!" Barrett covered a KO'd Cena. Cole said, "No way! No way!" They cut to great shots of fans reacting to the loss - kids, women, men, all with their jaws dropped or holding their heads in shock. Cole said there was a hit and run. Striker said Raw live tomorrow night is going to be awesome. Striker asked if there was a shirt available to put on Cena now. He said nothing will ever be the same. "This is not happening," Cole said. "This is a tragedy." It looked on replay like Husky Harris hit Cena. He deserves a roster spot, so good if it was him. The initial fan could have been another NXT alum, but there was no shot of his face.

The Nexus celebrated in the ring and lifted Barrett onto their shoulders. Cena eventually got up as the crowd stood in stunned silence. Cena regained his senses and just looked blankly and gulped. They continued to show fans reacting with tears and disbelief and jaws dropped and arms crossed. Great camera work. Cena hugged a couple fans at ringside. Lawler said it almost seemed like Cena was saying good bye to his fans.

WINNER: Barrett in 18:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/2 -- Good match. Cena carried Barrett to a match that told a really good story. The post-match selling of everything was WWE at its best. Remember, Barrett wasn't in on that finish, and that wasn't necessary for that story to play out that way unless they're planting seeds for Barrett being upset with Nexus giving him a dirty win rather than him winning on his own, as he seemed confident he could do.

5 -- MICHELLE MCCOOL (w/Layla) vs. NATALYA -- Divas Title Match

As Natalya came out, Cole saluted the troops watching all over the globe. This match gets second-from-top billing not because it's considered a co-main event, but rather it's the match that could be cut down or expanded depending on how the show is running time-wise. That said, a good side-effect is making the title seem a little more prestigious based on the positioning on the show. The match began at 10:03 p.m. McCool and Layla double-teamed Natalya at ringside at 1:00. Back in the ring McCool applied a body scissors.

Natalya made a comeback at 4:00 Layla stood on the ring apron. Natalya turned her attention to her and grabbed her by her hair. McCool kicked at Natalya, but kicked Layla instead. Natalya rolled up McCool for a two count. McCool countered with a snap belly-to-belly. At 5:00 Natalya applied a sharpshooter. Layla threw her shoe at Natalya, prompting the DQ.

WINNER: Natalya in 5:00 via DQ so LayCool retained the Divas Championship.

STAR RATING: * -- On the way to being better than usual for a women's match in WWE, but that finish was bad.

Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 04 2010, 01:13 pm
6 -- UNDERTAKER (w/Paul Bearer) vs. KANE -- World Title Match / Hell in a Cell

After a video package, Kane came out first, then Taker and Bearer. Kane jump-started the match by attacking Taker as he and Bearer approached the cage door. The match began officially at 10:20 p.m. Taker beat up Kane at ringside, including jabbing him with a chair in the opening minute. Kane legdropped Kane and scored a two count early. When he went for a chokeslam, Kane countered with an eye poke. Kane then rammed a chair into Taker's abdomen and then bashed him across the back. They took turns on on the offensive for several minutes at ringside. Taker hit a guillotine legdrop at 7:00.

Taker body scissored Kane mid-ring. Kane fought out of it and punched Taker several times at 8:00. Taker fired back with a flying clothesline. Taker limped toward Kane and applied an armbar, then climbed to the top rope for the top rope walk. Kane quickly knocked Taker off balance by clotheslining his injured leg. Kane hit a top rope clothesline at 12:00. Taker, though, surprised Kane with Hell's Gate. Lawler said he didn't quite have the full grip. Kane shifted himself under the bottom rope to the floor and pulled himself free.

They both stood and gave each other simultaneous big boots to the face. Kane and Taker both sat up at the same time about 20 seconds later. They punched each other o their knees, which got the crowd involved and chanting along with each punch. Taker seemed to be getting the better of Kane, but Kane then stood and hit Taker with an uppercut. Taker came back seconds later with a chokeslam for a two count at 15:00. They showed Bearer at ringside hitting the cage and yelling, "Damn! Damn! Damn!"

Taker set up a Last Ride, but Kane escaped by hitting Taker's injured leg. He then chokeslammed Taker for a two count. The crowd didn't buy it as a possible finish. Kane punched Taker in the corner, but Taker countered with a powerbomb out of the corner for a more believable near fall at 17:00. Taker lifted Kane for a Tombstone, but Kane countered with his own Tombstone. He almost slipped trying to get a good grip. It led to a two count. Kane couldn't believe Taker kicked out. He turned to the ref, yelled, "That was three!" and then punched the ref. He pounded the mat and threw a fit. The ref at ringside called for help from the back. They opened the cage door and several officials and referees helped that ref out of the ring.

Bearer walked into the ringside area and was locked inside the Cell. Kane saw that and walked toward Bearer. Bearer waddled away. Kane ordered him to enter the ring. He had the urn with him. He begged off in the corner. Kane told him he shouldn't have come back. "Do you have any idea what I'm going to do to you?" he said. Taker, though, sat up and chokeslammed Kane. Taker looked at Bearer, who held up the magical urn. Bearer smiled. Taker rolled his eyes back and then did the throat-slice gesture. Thunder noises filled the arena and the lights flickered purple. Bearer opened the urn and a light shined out of it into Taker's eyes, blinding him. Bearer held it in front of Taker and told him to stand, but he looked devilish. He handed Kane the urn. Taker looked confused. Kane looked confused, too, but he grabbed the urn. Kane then KO'd a stunned Taker in the face. The crowd booed. Kane gave Taker a chokeslam for the win. Cole said it was the ultimate act of treason. "Why would Paul Bearer bring Undertaker back from the brink of destruction just to destroy him again?" asked Cole. Good question.

WINNER: Kane in 22:00.

STAR RATING: **3/4 -- Some of the match was good, some of it dragged, and unfortunately the finish was just too complex or not well executed, as it came off flat and somewhat confusing as it played out. It's too bad because the pieces were there for a good turn, but perhaps Bearer is just so slow and awkward in his movements, it slowed everything down a little too much. Plus, if Bearer was going to turn on Taker, there were plenty of times in that match when it might have ended before he had the chance, and if appeared Kane wasn't in on it, so had Kane not hit the ref, Bearer wouldn't have had the chance to enter the cage to execute his plan. So Bearer, storyline-wise, was very lucky to have the chance to turn on Taker.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 06 2010, 01:18 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_44265.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN CENA & MICHAEL TARVER vs. EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and Cena walked center ring. Cena offered a handshake to Bourne, who accepted. Cena backed off to the corner as Tarver shouted at him that this isn't how they do it. Cena slapped in Tarver to "show him how it's done." Tarver then pounded on Bourne and shouted at Cena. Cole posed the question of whether Cena will be a willing partner on the other side of the break.

Back from break, Henry was working on Tarver as Cole reset a "surreal scene." Cole smiled as Henry pounded on Tarver, who was then taken into the babyface corner. Cena then pretended to stick out a hand for a tag as Tarver was isolated way across the ring. Cena continued to mockingly reach for a tag, which drew a crowd pop. Henry then tagged in and Tarver reached out for a tag, but Cena pulled his hand away. Cole wondered what Barrett is thinking about this. Suddenly, Henry and Tarver came to a standstill before Henry clubbed him across the back. Henry then stepped on Tarver's chest and tagged in Bourne. Bourne followed with a nice standing moonsault, but Tarver kicked out. Cena continued to mockingly reach out a hand for a tag.

Tarver fought back at 7:30 before Bourne caught him in the corner with a kick strike. Tarver then followed with a belly-to-belly suplex. Tarver tried to make another tag, but Cena dropped off the ring apron to start signing autographs. Tarver was pissed. In the background, Henry snuck in the ring. Tarver freaked, then Henry scooped him up and landed the World's Strongest Slam center ring. Henry with the cover for the win as Cena signed Cole's format sheet.

WINNERS: Henry & Bourne at 8:55. The match was mainly a set up for the post-match advancement, but it was needed to "give the fanbase some hope" and let Cena act like a babyface to the crowd's delight before the impending dilemma Cena would face. (*1/4)

2 -- ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

Immediately back from break, Alicia was in the ring doing a weird hand gesture toward Natalya, who was also in the ring. Eventually, Alicia made the gesture of a "heart breaking." Natalya won this in under 45 seconds with the Sharpshooter. She then posed in the ring and pointed to the crowd.

WINNER: Natalya at 0:38. If you blinked, you missed it. A quick squash for Natalya, but not enough emphasis on this one minute of TV for it to mean anything. (n/a)

3 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match

Cole noted Sheamus is a very frustrated man following his loss to Randy Orton at the PPV. Sheamus blasted away at Bryan over and over again. He landed about ten knee drops to the head near the ropes, causing a DQ. Bryan was face-down on the mat selling unconsciousness. Sheamus then finished off Bryan with the High Cross running Razor's Edge. Sheamus glared into the crowd before his music played.

WINNER: Bryan via DQ at 0:30. Of all the wrestlers on the roster to use in that spot, they chose Bryan fresh off an important U.S. Title retention on the PPV last night with no follow-up on Bryan solidifying himself as a legitimate force in WWE? We'll see if there's any type of follow-up to make right on that. It was the right booking of Sheamus in this spot needing to get his heat back after the title loss. (n/a)

4 -- LAY-COOL (Unified divas champion MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA) vs. BELLA TWINS

Already in the ring back from break were the Bella Twins. Out came Lay-Cool as their opponents, with Lay-Cool able to cross over between brands with McCool the "Unified Divas champion." In the process, the "attraction" of being able to see brand-specific talent on separate brands continues to be watered down little by little. The Bellas quickly pulled off the Switcheroo and McCool went for a roll-up, only to be crucifix pinned. Layla was great selling from the ring apron. She had her back to the pin and started celebrating until the Bella's music hit. McCool sold embarrassment being pinned as Layla tried to make sense of what happened.

WINNERS: Bellas at 0:59. The combined length of two Divas matches tonight is shorter than the already super-short standard Divas match on Raw. (n/a)

5 -- 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match for the WWE Title

Back live, everyone was assembled in the ring. Nexus + Cena were on one side against the Raw wrestlers. The bell sounded and Bourne was out at 0:08. Sheamus took out D.H. Smith. Regal was out via Cena. Cole then made a mistake saying Sheamus was unable to "retain" the WWE Title at Hell in a Cell. That would be "regain." Santino, then Zack Ryder were out. Primo was next via Mark Henry. Henry is taking out frustration from Saturday. Henry tried to eliminate Barrett, but Cena made the save. Henry asked Cena what's up. Nexus then ganged up on Henry and Cena could only watch as Nexus eliminated Henry. Otunga got in Cena's face, so Cena dumped Otunga over the top rope. Cole said Cena only has to help Barrett, not anyone else in Nexus. Barrett and Cena pointed fingers at each other as they cut to break.

Back from break, Morrison was on the offensive and even went after Cena before attacking Barrett. During the break, Barrett took out Kozlov. Also, Darren Young was kicked out via Nexus. Not a lot of prestige to this match with some of the involved participants. Also, no inclusion of the #2 champion on the Raw brand, Daniel Bryan, is curious. Cena and Barrett stood in one of corner, then Cena went after DiBiase. Sheamus teased an elimination of Slater, but to no avail. Morrison then took out Slater, which drew a pop.

At 10:00, DiBiase nearly eliminated Cena, who held on for dear life. Cena then broke free and saved Barrett from being eliminated. Nice "nearfall." Morrison then eliminated Kidd via springboard Flying Chuck. Down to about eight guys, including a very quiet Miz. Miz then got some TV time working on Morrison. Cena continued to play a bodyguard for Barrett before Cena and Miz came face-to-face. Truth then grabbed Miz from behind, but Miz kicked him away. Morrison suddenly busted out a sweet huracanrana from the ring apron taking Miz over the top rope to the outside. Sheamus and DiBiase then tried to separate Cena from Barrett as they hit the top of the hour.

Cole reset the show as Cena began clubbing Sheamus to protect Barrett. Gabriel suddenly teased an elimination before Truth awkwardly eliminated Gabriel with a kick. Cena and Barrett are the last two Nexus members now. Truth was out next, reducing the number of Raw wrestlers left. Barrett then dumped DiBiase over the top rope, ending his surprisingly long stay in the match. So, it's Morrison and Sheamus vs. Cena and Barrett. Lawler asked the "gray area" question of what happens if Barrett is eliminated, does Cena get fired? Cole said he doesn't know. Morrison then smashed Barrett with a kick from the apron, but he fell off the ring apron and eliminated himself.

So, it's Sheamus, Cena, and Barrett. Cena did his usual routine on Sheamus before dropping the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then tried to eliminate Sheamus, but Sheamus came back with the Irish Curse backbreaker. And the crowd quieted down. Sheamus then stalked Cena for the Brogue Kick, but Cena ducked and Cena clotheslined Sheamus off the apron to the floor. So, it's Cena and Barrett. The crowd knew what was up as the two men slowly walked toward each other. Cena wanted to square off, but Barrett pointed over the top rope. Would Cena winning a guaranteed #1 contender match over-rule him getting fired? Puzzles wrapped in riddles. The crowd was hot as Barrett ordered Cena to eliminate himself. Cena slowly backed away to the ropes as the crowd loudly chanted, "Let's go Cena." Cena and Barrett then came forehead-to-forehead for a big meeting of the bulls. Cena gritted his teeth and approached the top rope. Cena then climbed over the top rope onto the ring apron. Cole said this is everything he lives for and he can't quit a match. Lawler said he's gone if he doesn't do this. Cena then slowly dropped to the ground and his feet hit the ground. Barrett is your new #1 contender.

Post-match: Exit Cena. Enter Randy Orton. 127 minutes into the show, Orton stomped out to the ring for the first time on the show with WWE Title belt in hand. Orton entered the ring and started circling around Barrett who peered down at him. The circle became smaller before they were within inches of each other. Orton then held up the WWE Title belt and maintained a glare with Barrett. Glare returned. "Is Randy Orton WWE's final hope?" Cole asked as they concluded the show.

WINNER: Barrett at 19:35 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. The crowd was hot for the story, so that was a good sign for Week 1 of Cena as a Nexus member. Orton vs. Barrett is quite the intriguing one-on-one match, with the added back-story of Cena expected to help Barrett try to win the match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 07 2010, 10:03 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 10-4-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10014454.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Eddie Edwards defeated Kenny King (w/Rhett Titus) to retain the ROH World Television Title in 11:54. Good back and forth action for the first couple minutes led to Edwards getting a nearfall after kicking King after King did a back handspring.

At 3:30, they fought for a suplex on the apron, and King hit a gourdbuster on the ring frame and followed up with a leg drop off the guardrail that got a two count back in the ring. After Edwards broke out of an abdominal stretch, King took control again and went up top, but Edwards hit a superplex.

Edwards hit a couple clotheslines and sent King to the apron, and when King tried to slingshot in, caught him with a kick and dove onto King and Titus on the floor. Edwards hit a backpack stunner at 9:00 for a nearfall and then went up top. King avoided a doublestomp and hit his shotgun knees.

King went for the Coronation but Edwards landed on his feet. King hit a cartwheel kick for a nearfall. Edwards went for a Codebreaker off the ropes, but King caught him into a black hole backbreaker sort of thing and hit a springboard blockbuster for a good nearfall.

King tried a second rope powerbomb, but Edwards reversed into a huracanrana and locked in the Achilles Lock and King tapped out quickly. The crowd changed for Edwards as Mike Hogewood pointed out that Edwards won without Shane Hagadorn in his corner.

Joe's Judgment: Decent match. Nothing groundbreaking, but it was enjoyable to watch. I liked the lack of interference despite Titus being at ringside, and I also like the TV title being actually defended for once. The crowd popped for the Achilles Lock but otherwise weren't all that hot for the match.

2. Tyler Black defeated Mike Sydal in 4:20. Sydal is the younger brother of Evan Bourne, who wrestled on the indy scene, including ROH, as Matt Sydal. Mike Hogewood said that Black is "fulfilling his contractual obligations" with this match, and Dave Prazak said he was just upping his own worth by appearing. The crowd was very anti-Black, chanting "You sold out" before the match started.

Sydal hit a couple low dropkicks but was essentially dominated. Black hit a leaping dropkick to the head of a tree of woe-hung Sydal and Prazak called it "vintage Tyler Black", noting that he hadn't used it much since his days as a tag team champion.

Sydal got a rollup shortly after kicking out of a Black leaping lariat and then hit a few kicks. Black hit an F5 and then God's Last Gift almost immediately after and scored the pin.

Joe's Judgment: I miss Tyler already. I was down on him for a while, but this was a good short match that made him look great.

3. Davey Richards defeated El Generico in 17:07. Davey took down Generico with a drop toehold and worked a headlock briefly before Generico got up and hit a lucha armdrag and some chops. Richards worked the knee around 6:00 with various submissions. Generico slapped a bridging Richards, who had to break the bridge to return the slap, and Generico got out of the hold.

Generico got up selling the knee, and they exhanged forearms until Davey got a solebutt at 8:00 and went for his handspring enzuigiri, but Generico dropkicked him instead. Richards went to the floor and Generico hit his flip dive onto him.

Generico hit a crossbody for two at 9:00 and a blue thunder bomb for another two count shortly thereafter. Richards blocked a forearm strike and hit an enzuigiri and German suplex for a two count. Davey went for a superplex but Generico tried to break free.

Richards got the advantage on the top rope after a couple headbutts and hit the superplex. Generico got to his feet and they traded forearms some more. Richards hit the Alarm Clock and running forearm in the corner, but Generico hit a Yakuza and a half-and-half and went for the brainbuster, which Richards reversed into one of his own for a two count.

At 14:15, Generico crotched Richards on the top turnbuckle and hit an absolutely sick half-nelson superplex. Richards got his hand on the ropes for a great nearfall. Generico went for the top turnbuckle brainbuster but Richards slipped out and hit a dragon screw in the ropes.

Richards went up for the shooting star press and Generico followed him. Richards tried a sunset flip but was unsuccessful, so he just hit a kick and then went to an ankle lock. Generico sent him to ringside and tried another half-and-half suplex, which Davey countered into a rollup and then a Texas Cloverleaf, which ultimately caused Generico to tap out.

Joe's Judgment: Very good match. I would have preferred them not to basically forget the leg work for a few minutes in the middle, but it playing into the finish was great. Richards going over is the right call because he looks strong for his Final Battle title match, and Generico looks vulnerable for the big blowoff with Steen.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 07 2010, 10:04 am
WWE NXT Results: 10-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report. (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_44302.shtml)

Arena: Michael Cole and Josh Mathews introduced the first show from WWE.com. On the stage, Matt Striker welcomed out the Season 3 Rookies and reminded them it's elimination week. The first competition is mechanical bull-riding. The Bella Twins gave a quick demonstration before the Rookies were up trying to earn points.

Naomi went 12.5. Aksana went 17.9 before being thrown down. A.J. was up next and went a measly 9.6. Jamie Keyes was next and dropped at 10.9. Pointless Maxine went 9.8. Cole noted she still won't win a competition. Kaitlyn glared at Vickie Guerrero before approaching the bull. She went 10.0. And the winner is Aksana. Her reward is a wrestling match up next.

Updated Season 3 Immunity Scoreboard:
-- A.J.: 3 points
-- Naomi: 2 points
-- Kaitlyn: 2 points
-- Jamie: 1 point
-- Aksana: 1 point

1 -- AKSANA (w/Goldust) vs. MAXINE (w/Alicia Fox)

Basic start with some basic wrestling holds as the crowd rallied behind Aksana. Aksana then finished off Maxine with a roll-up countering a roll-up attempt by Maxine. And Maxine remains pointless.

WINNER: Aksana in 2:00. I wonder how many people are watching this on WWE's website. About what you would expect from a wrestling match on a show where WWE has ensured the matches don't matter since they don't factor in the competition. (n/a)

2 -- VICKIE GUERRERO (w/IC champion Dolph Ziggler) vs. KAITLYN

The bell sounded and Vickie started doing warm-up jumping jacks. And some more calisthenics. Kaitlyn popped Vickie in the mouth and Vickie cowered in the corner to complain. Kaitlyn sold concern, then Vickie pulled a switcheroo and slapped Kaitlyn. She cackled, so Kaitlyn slapped her. That quieted Vickie, who slipped out of the ring as Kaitlyn sold concern again. Vickie then yanked Kaitlyn through the ropes to the outside and smashed her into the guardrail. Cole sarcastically noted the intensity of the blood feud boiling over on the grand stage.

Back in the ring, Vickie worked over Kaitlyn before Vickie started selling a back injury. Kaitlyn then capitalized with a backbreaker, which drew a pop, for a two count. Moments later, Kaitlyn scored a pin on Vickie to win the battle. Afterward, Ziggler entered the ring and Kaitlyn excitedly celebrated with Ziggler, who didn't seem to mind. Ziggler then tried to shake off Kaitlyn as Vickie screamed and left the ring.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 6:00. Nice execution (with some expectedly sloppy spots) of a match with a good back-story built up over a period of weeks leading to a competition to settle the conflict. Basic pro wrestling storytelling.

Ringside: Striker was with the Season 3 Rookies to find out who's eliminated first. Surprisingly, Jamie Keyes is gone. The Bella Twins fell down on the stage to sell they were distraught. Jamie took the mic and thanked the audience before talking up the other Rookies. Striker then signed off the show after a 55-minute online broadcast.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 09 2010, 11:58 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 10-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_44352.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. VANCE ARCHER (w/Curt Hawkins)

Back and forth they went early on with classic big-man offense and comebacks. Masters teased the Masterlock early on, but Archer slipped through the ropes to the outside to catch a break.

Back from break, Archer landed a clubbing forearm smash to the chest. Masters then fought back from a seated position before landing a series of strikes. Masters followed with a clothesline, then a spinebuster for a two count. Archer continued to sell face-down on the mat, so Masters set up for the Masterlock, but Archer landed a big knock-down boot that sent Masters to the floor. On the outside, Archer accidentally popped Hawkins with a clothesline when Masters ducked. Hawkins argued with Archer, then Masters yanked Archer back into the ring via Masterlock to score the submission victory. Hawkins was hands-on-hips in frustration during this finish.

Post-match: Hawkins entered the ring as Archer continued to sell on the mat. Hawkins then put a boot to Archer's face and went up top where he delivered a Shawn Michaels-style elbow smash to the chest. Hawkins then jumped out of the ring and shouted at Archer, who sold some more in the ring.

WINNER: Masters in 10:00. About what you would expect from Archer and Masters in the ring followed by some actual character development for Curt Hawkins, who played the role well. It's another classic WWE tag team split, but Hawkins should be given a shot at breaking out as a singles wrestler. (*1/2)

2 -- DARREN YOUNG vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal and Young locked up, with Regal getting the early advantage. Stanford will assuredly be screamed at for saying "the wrestling business" while discussing Regal's experience as a "crafty veteran." Regal and Young started trading right hands from a standing position before Young landed a running boot to the head for a nearfall. The match briefly went to the floor, then back in the ring, Regal caught Young with the knee trembler to the side of the head. Regal rolled over Young and scored a pin for the win.

WINNER: Regal in 4:00. Fine TV match with the right finish. WWE isn't ready to invest in Young yet, but when and if they are, he can begin a quest to prove his worth by going through Regal-level heels on the Raw brand. (*)

3 -- HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH) vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO w/Tamina)

Back from break, Tamina led out the Usos to face HD for the main event. Jimmy and Kidd started things off, with Jimmy gaining the early advantage with an arm wringer. Stanford noted Natalya breaking out as a singles threat to the Divas Title as Hart Dynasty took control of the match with Smith executing a powerslam off the ropes. The Harts continued to dominate as Lawler sold the idea that the Harts only had a minor tiff last week. Kidd then hit a flip dive onto the Usos on the floor and they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was on the defensive as they replayed footage from during the break of Kidd missing with a springboard elbow smash to lose control. Kidd then came back with a double foot dropkick on both Usos before tagging in Smith. Smith cleaned house and nailed a boot to the face before landing a Hogan-style leg drop. Tamina then grabbed Smith's ankle to distract him and allow the Usos to regain control, working over Smith. The Usos had a nice sequence of consecutive running butt bombs in the corner that resulted in a two count, then Smith finally made it to his corner to tag in Kidd.

Kidd dropped Jimmy with a spinning neckbreaker before firing up the crowd as he took Jimmy up top. Kidd wanted a huracanrana, but Jimmy knocked him to the ring apron. Kidd took out both Usos anyways, then dropped Jimmy with a top rope huracanrana. The action completely broke down, then Jimmy dropped Kidd with a nice standing kick to the face. Jimmy then went up top and hit a Superfly Splash for the pin and the win. Usos get the win over the Harts to create more tension with the Harts. They signed off with Smith selling on the floor and asking Kidd what went wrong.

WINNER: Usos in 16:00. Very nice TV tag match. The Usos looked sharp in the ring and WWE continued the theme of the night teasing tag team tension. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 10 2010, 12:00 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44353.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KO champion ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY vs. MADISON RAYNE & TARA -- Winner gets rights to "Beautiful People" name

The match started just before the start of the third quarter-hour with a wild brawl in the ring to get over this "grudge feud." [Q3] Miss T. came out on stage two minutes into the action to get a closer look at the division she's been put in charge of. At 3:00, Madison came in with a hot tag and the action broke down. Madison had the win in hand, but she tagged in Tara, who lost control of the match. Velvet Sky then hit a roundhouse kick on Tara and scored the pin for the win.

After the finish, the BP celebrated while Madison sold from ringside that she was distraught. Miss T. then cut a promo reminding the four of them that the KO Title will be on the line at Bound for Glory with a special referee. Miss T. then brought out Mickie James on stage and everyone shot her dirty looks. Mickie said everyone should have known she would make an "impact" in TNA. Mickie said she would be honored to crown the new KO champion at BFG, but she has her eyes on the KO Title. Mickie said it will be "epic." Her music hit and she hugged Miss T. as they cut away.

WINNERS: Love & Sky in 4:00 to retain the BP name. (*)

2 -- MICK FOLEY vs. RIC FLAIR -- Last Man Standing match

They went right to the blood with Flair opening up Foley's forehead after the promo exchange "last week." On the outside, Foley landed a low blow as blood continued to flow from Foley's forehead into his eyes. Foley then found a barbed wire baseball bat underneath the ring steps and brought it into the ring to drop Flair with. Flair went down to his knees and bladed. Another barbed wire shot and Flair was shown visibly taking a giant swipe across his forehead with a blade to open himself up.

The fight went to the announce table where Foley tried to use the barbed wire bat to open up Flair some more before Flair gouged him in the eyes. Flair then threw Foley off the stage through a merchandise table positioned on the ground below. They bleeped out a "holy s---" chant as Foley sold on the floor. Flair made his way down to Foley as they cut to break.

Back live, Flair was ramming an elbow into Foley's forehead inside the ring. During the break, Flair used Foley's book as a weapon hitting Foley over the back with it. Foley and Flair were covered in blood, with Foley bleeding buckets. Flair then went under the ring and retrieved some thumbtacks that he spread across the ring. Foley then blocked a corner attack and back dropped Flair across the ring into the tacks. That should have been the finish, but it turned into a mid-match transitional hold. Flair got up and begged off in the corner before Foley pounded him down to the corner. Foley then ran a barbed wire board into Flair's face. Flair got up at five to answer the ten count before Foley went under the ring to retrieve a table.

Foley set up the table in the ring, then Flair lured him into a crotch shot that decked Foley. Flair proceeded to place Foley on a table before going up top. He then dove off the top with a splash that took both men through the table. Flair then got up, but did a Flair Flop into the thumbtacks. The ref suddenly reached a ten count with Foley squatting in the corner. It just kind of ended there with Flair face-down on the mat and Foley gasping for air, the winner.

WINNER: Foley in 13:00. Just a disgusting match that was hard to watch. Sure, the blood was supposed to add intensity to the blow-off match, but it was just way, way over the top. It fits TNA's line of thinking, "Hey, we can use blood, unlike WWE, so tons and tons of something must make it better!" To make matters worse, the finish was non-conclusive; the match just ended with a random, non-dramatic ten count with Foley declared the winner while he was randomly squatting in the corner after a comedy heel spot from Flair doing the flop into the tacks.

3 -- ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL)

Young went for comedy early on pretending to lock up with Orlando after the opening bell. Taz talked in circles about Orlando's "character" as Orlando rubbed against Neal in the corner. Young then inadvertently distracted Orlando to allow Moore to tag into the match for Ink, Inc. Moore hit a moonsault on Orlando and scored a two count. Young then entered the ring and high-fived Moore. The match broke down, then Orlando low-blowed Moore behind the ref's back to score the win.

Post-match: Young tackled the referee and called for a time-out to over-rule the finish. Young told Orlando it's for his own good. Young said they are forfeiting this match. He proposed at Bound for Glory they get matching tattoos, then do the match all over again.

WINNERS: Young & Jordan in 5:00. With a locker room full of wrestlers who could put on a strong wrestling match to showcase TNA's talent roster, they went this route investing ten minutes of TV time on a comedy team in a comedy tag match. (n/a)

4 -- $100,000 BATTLE ROYAL GAUNTLET

Angle and Anderson started things off with a collar-and-elbow tie-up, leading to a stalemate. Every 45 seconds will be a new competitor. Coincidentally, Jeff Hardy was #3. Tenay covered by saying the Championship Committee wanted to "stir the pot" by putting the top three stars in the first three slots. There was no clock for the 45-second countdown and A.J. Styles was quickly out next. They cut to break with Styles slowly making his way to the ring.

Back live, several more men were in the ring as Tommy Dreamer's music was playing. A total of nine in the ring and no eliminations thus far. Jay Lethal then came out as #10. About 20 seconds later, Jeff Jarrett came out #11. He tried to eliminate Douglas Williams, but Williams caught the apron to block. The Pope was out next. Robert Roode joined the party with no eliminations yet. Sting was out next. After a few elimination teases, they cut to break.

Back from break, Abyss's music hit. So his reward for kidnapping Dixie Carter is a chance to win $100,000. Douglas Williams and Sabu were gone, then Jay Lethal, then Stevie Richards via Abyss. Sting was out. Kevin Nash then came out and high-fived Sting on the way to the ring. Nash wasn't even dressed to wrestle. Tenay plugged the conclusion of the match during Reaction after Impact. Matt Morgan was out next one minute before the top of the hour. Morgan started knocking down smaller wrestlers before coming face-to-face with Kevin Nash. The big men battle. They started trading blows before Samoa Joe's music hit.

Abyss eliminated both Nash and Morgan right as Joe hit the ring. Suddenly, Beer Money's music hit again to bring out James Storm. Dreamer teased eliminating Abyss, but Abyss held on. Abyss then eliminated GenMe as Shelley hit the ring. Rhino was out next as Kazarian was eliminated. Rhino went right after Abyss while Styles and Dreamer started fighting. Rhino was gone next. Abyss then tossed Jarrett, followed by The Pope. Tenay said that's all the time they have for Impact.

Reaction

After a brief video pause, Tenay reset the show as Abyss eliminated Shelley. The crowd was pretty quiet as men traded blows in the ring. Joe was gone next. Beer Money, the heels, then did their babyface Beer...Money dance. Roode then attempted to throw Storm out of the ring, but Storm skinned the cat. They hugged it out, then Abyss dumped both Beer Money members out of the ring. Next out was Dreamer via Abyss. Abyss then press-slammed Styles over the top rope to the floor. And they were down to the final four of Abyss, Hardy, Angle, and Anderson.

Hardy hit Angle with a Swanton Bomb, but Abyss chucked Hardy over the top rope to the floor. Anderson then took a chokeslam mid-ring. Suddenly, RVD's music hit. They went from 45-second intervals to 20-second intervals to a 10-minute interval for RVD all in the same match. RVD then eliminated both himself and Abyss. So, it was down to Angle and Anderson. Angle was selling his rib injury as both men came to their feet. Angle and Anderson traded moves, then Angle gave Anderson the Angle Slam over the top rope to the floor ten minutes past the top of the hour to win the match.

WINNER: Angle in 26:00 to win the cash.

Post-match: Angle held the cash and gave the belt-around-the-waist motion to Anderson, who stomped away from ringside while holding his hamstring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 10 2010, 12:02 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-8-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_44380.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 –EDGE vs. JACK SWAGGER

And starting things off with a PPV re-match. Swagger came out with his eagle mascot and a mic. Swagger said he was glad Edge has been traded back to Smackdown. He ridiculed Edge for attacking his eagle mascot. Swagger had to restrain the eagle at ringside from attacking Edge. Edge threatened to make Swagger look stupid in three seconds, and said he had no problem flipping the bird. That was clever.

The match began with Swagger pulling at Edge’s leg in the corner until the ref broke things up. He went after the leg again, and Matt Striker said that Swagger was focusing on that Achilles tendon that was torn several months ago. Swagger did push-ups on Edge while he was face-down in the mat. That could come back to haunt him. He got the mascot up on the apron and they both waved their arms (or, wings in the case of the eagle). Swagger avoided Edge’s attack, and Edge speared the eagle off the apron. Swagger checked on his personal mascot as the show went to break.

Edge caught Swagger with a spinning heel kick, shades of Savio Vega, as they came back from break. Swagger grabbed Edge and brought his arm down over the top rope, and Edge ended up outside the ring. He continued to target the shoulder of Edge, bringing the arm across the steel ring post. They showed the eagle being loaded onto a stretcher during the break. More work on the left arm of Edge from Swagger. Edge fired back with a cross-body as Swagger’s throat was across the middle rope, and he rolled Swagger up for two. Back-breaker by the All-American American. Tornado DDT from Edge for a near-fall. Belly-to-belly suplex by Swagger for two. Edge brought Swagger down throat-first over the top rope and then got the crazy eyes and readied for the spear. Swagger countered by picking him up, but Edge rolled through, Swagger with an ankle-lock, but Edge slipped out. The back-and-forth sequence left both men flat on the mat, gasping for air. Swagger got up and locked in the ankle-lock, but Edge countered with a roll-up for two. Kick to the arm by Swagger. He got tripped up heading into the buckle and Edge hit the ropes, then hit Swagger with a spear for the win.

WINNER: Edge, at 10:18. I’m a little disappointed they’ve gone back to the comedy with Swagger after he showed that he can carry the ball as World Champion.

Edge got the mic after the match and said even though this is a PG show, he wanted Swagger to know that he definitely flipped the bird.

2 – LAYLA vs. KELLY KELLY

No headsets for LayCool tonight. Natalya came to the ring with Kelly Kelly. Kelly was dressed in a red, white and blue outfit for some reason. The two traded shoves, but Layla ended up getting the upper-hand. Layla kicked Kelly in the stomach, sending her outside. Back in the ring, Layla took out the knee of Kelly, then got a two-count from that. Kelly fired back by slamming Layla’s face into the mat several times. Clothesline, then another that was especially bad. Handspring elbow attempt, but Layla kicked Kelly in the lower back. Nice neck-breaker by Layla and she got the win from that.

WINNER: Layla, at 2:19. Not as terrible as it could’ve been. Then again, the standards are pretty low here, so it’s not hard to hit them.

3 –DREW MCINTYRE & CODY RHODES vs. KAVAL & KOFI KINGSTON

Kingston was cornered immediately by the heels, and worked over there after a quick tag. Kingston hammered away at McIntyre in the corner, getting the crowd fired up, only to have McIntyre avoid a splash and Rhodes to take a cheap shot at him. Kingston reached for the tag, but couldn’t make it in time. Rhodes tagged in while McIntyre was in a roll-up. Rhodes tried an Alabama Slam, but Kingston made the tag while he was in the move. Kaval did a handspring cross-body, but didn’t go for the cover. He used his kicks to take Rhodes to the mat and hooked in a Dragon Sleeper. McIntyre kicked him in the head during the move, and Kingston took Drew out. Rhodes tossed Kofi over the top. Stun-gun by Rhodes after a distraction by McIntyre. Cross Rhodes and the champions continued their roll.

WINNERS: McIntyre and Rhodes, at 3:10. Good TV match. Kaval and Kingston have promise as a team, but I’m doubting it’s a long-term thing.

4 – MVP vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

The two held a collar-and-elbow tie-up onto the ground then into the corner. Vickie Guerrero was at ringside with Ziggler, but had a look of complete disdain on her face. Belly-to-back suplex by MVP for a two-count. This three-man announcing booth is just not working for me. It’s worse with Todd Grisham than it is with Jerry Lawler on PPVs. Ziggler choked MVP on the bottom rope and Ziggler distracted the ref so Vickie could get a cheap shot in, but she didn’t go for it. Ziggler then got pissed at his main squeeze for not helping him out. He went outside the ring to plead with her, but she just walked away from him. “We’re a team!” he said. Vickie walked to the locker room and MVP nailed Ziggler in the back with a baseball slide. Both men were on the outside as they went to break.

Ziggler had MVP on the mat in a potential submission hold upon return. Fireman’s carry take-over for a two-count. Right hands began the comeback for MVP, but Ziggler jumped on his back and locked in a sleeper. He didn’t have it on well enough and MVP was able to break out. MVP took advantage and rolled Ziggler up for a few times, but only got two-counts. Ziggler fired back again with a near-fall of his own. Rear chin-lock for Ziggler, but again, MVP fought out, this time by stepping on Ziggler’s foot. Overhead throw by MVP and both men were down. Back to a vertical base and MVP had the advantage, but it didn’t last long. Ziggler was whipped into the ropes, but after he held on, he walked into a big boot. At this point, Kaitlyn walked to the ring. Ziggler put MVP in the sleeper but MVP backed Ziggler into the turnbuckle. Kaitlyn showed concern for Dolph. Kaitlyn tried to trip up MVP before he hit his Ballin’ elbowdrop. That allowed Ziggler to pop up and hit the Zig Zag for the victory.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 12:08. Interesting that Kaitlyn succeeded where Vickie failed here in terms of interfering and helping Dolph win. Match was good enough.

5 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO

Del Rio opened the match by pounding on Rey in the corner, but Rey came back with rights. Del Rio dove at Rey, but Rey avoided it and ended up falling through the middle rope and to ringside. Drop-toe hold on Del Rio, who went head-first into the steel steps. Rey took Del Rio’s arm and wrapped it around the ring post. Hard kick to the chest of Del Rio as Rey was not letting up. He stood on Del Rio’s hand on the ring steps. Rey broke the ten-count by going back into the ring, then perched himself on the top rope. He flew off with a cross-body onto Del Rio on the outside. Hot, action packed match to start. They went to break here.

Del Rio was still on the outside, being checked on by Ricardo Rodriguez, before he went back into the ring. Mysterio dropkicked Del Rio, who was seated in the corner. His reaction was priceless, in that he had no reaction, just staring off into space as if he was out cold. The announcers hammered home the fact that the match has been all Rey. Mysterio went to the top rope, but Del Rio nailed Rey with an awesome step-up enziguiri that sent Rey to ringside. Back in the ring, Del Rio went for a cover and got one. Arm-bar applied, but Rey kicked out. Another enziguiri-like move, this time to the mid-section of Rey. Del Rio went to work on the arm again, bringing the knee down hard. Mysterio fought back again, but was whipped hard into the buckle. He got his feet up on a charge and both men were down. Mysterio went to the top rope, but Del Rio met him up there. Sunset flip powerbomb and Rey landed in a pinning combination. Referee registered a two-count, and the fans were hot. Powerslam by Del Rio that only got a two-count. Jumping back suplex for another two. Another enziguiri try in the corner, but Rey avoided it. He went to the top and hurricanrana’d Del Rio into position for the 619. Rey was about to hit the ropes, but he saw Rodriguez readying to trip him, so Rey stopped short. That allowed Del Rio to hit Mysterio from behind. Rodriguez was on the apron telling Del Rio to get the arm, but Rey flipped Del Rio into Rodriguez. He hit the 619, then a splash off the top rope for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 13:22. Very good, hot match. Both men worked their butts off and seemed to be energized by the crowd.

Mysterio celebrated after the match, taunting Del Rio, who was holding his ribs at ringside.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 11 2010, 01:18 pm
TNA Bound For Glory PPV Results: 10-10-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_44417.shtml)

1 -- TNA tag champions MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. GENERATION ME (MAX & JEREMY BUCK) -- TNA Tag Title match

Rapid-fire start with the Guns landing double-team offense on Max. Shelley then tried to bounce off the ropes for offense on Max, but Jeremy yanked his foot from the outside. GenMe had a touch of offense before the Guns came back with more signature double-team offense. The Guns then went flying to the outside with double suicide dives, even landing on their feet like cats. Back in the ring, Shelley hit a top-rope cross-body block on Jeremy for a two count. Jeremy then pulled the ref aside to create a distraction to give GenMe an opening. They capitalized with a big neckbreaker off the second turnbuckle to focus on Shelley's injured neck, which Shelley sold nicely. Jeremy taunted Shelley, then GenMe began working over Shelley with their own double-team offense.

At 6:00, the audience tried to rally behind Shelley, but GenMe cut him off. Jeremy tried a top rope move, but Shelley fought him off. Shelley then fought off Max on the ring apron and came off the top with a double foot stomp to Jeremy's chest. Shelley then inched his way toward Sabin to make the hot tag, with Sabin coming in hot with rapid-fire offense. Sabin then came off the apron with a big leaping springboard clothesline on Max for a close nearfall. Max went looking for a tag to Jeremy, but Jeremy was KO'ed on the outside. Back in the ring, the Guns hit a combination neckbreaker for a close two count that Jeremy just broke up in time. More teased highspots, then Max hit a sick wheelbarrow slam on Sabin in the ring for a close two count. Max had a "freak out" facial expression selling the nearfall.

They reset the match with all four men involved in the action. Suddenly, all four men were in the corner. Jeremy then cleared off Shelley and Max nailed a bulldog on Sabin. GenMe then hooked up with a sick 450 splash on Sabin as he was hanging across the middle rope. Max had a pin, but Shelley broke it up just in time. Shelley then suddenly snapped off a double DDT on GenMe, leaving all four men stunned in the ring. Another sequence of rapid-fire offense and bodies flying everywhere, then Max hit a spear center-ring. Jeremy then followed with a springboard splash from the apron and Max made a cover for another nearfall.

At 12:00, Max "officially tagged in" Jeremy, who came off the top with a 450, but Shelley got his knees up. Sabin then came running out of the corner and jumped up top to give Jeremy a big overhead release German Suplex. Sick spot. Shelley then went up top and the Guns nailed the Skull & Bones combination splash for the pin and the win. Guns retain the tag titles. Taz excitedly fed to a replay of the "huge air show" in the ring showing off the various highspots in the match.

WINNERS: Guns at 12:54 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Heck of a PPV opener continuing to showcase the Machineguns. A shorter version of this type of match was badly missing on the live Impact to whet the appetite of viewers for the PPV. The match was heavy on highspots, but still told a good story of GenMe trying anything possible to (a) win the titles and (b) prove they belong. Meanwhile, the match continued to get over the "resiliency" characteristic for the Guns that helps them connect with the audience. (***3/4)
 
2 -- Knockouts champion ANGELINA LOVE vs. VELVET SKY vs. MADISON RAYNE vs. TARA -- Knockouts Title match -- Mickie James special referee

Madison was screaming at everyone early on, including ref Mickie, who she cut a promo on during the pre-match interview. Madison screamed at Tara to do work, so Tara obliged with offense on Sky as Angelina paced on the apron looking to pick a spot in the four-way style match. Tara then teased the Widow's Peak on Sky, but Sky countered. Tara countered back with a roll-up and hooked the tights for the win, which Mickie didn't see. Tara sold being a bit nervous with the win considering Madison's frame of mind. Mickie then entered the picture and dropped Madison with a kick to the head

WINNER: Tara at 5:58 to capture the Knockouts Title. Another KO Title match, another title switch. They're clearly setting up for Tara vs. Mickie in a "WWE special." (*)
 
3 -- ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL)

EY had a prop with him on the way to the ring: a TNA Rule Book. They zoomed in on the cover, which looked like something that was printed up at Kinko's down the street before the show. OJ started things off, then EY tagged in and started celebrating with everyone in the match. EY clapped hands with Jordan, but then slingshot him into the ring. Ink, Inc. then hung out Young to dry on the top rope. OJ was positioned behind EY and Ink, Inc. yanked up and down the top rope to get a cheap pop before knocking them to the outside.

Back in the ring, Orlando cut off Shannon and made a sensual cover for a two count. EY then picked up then rulebook and began reading it before kicking OJ's hand off the ropes as he was attempting to gain additional leverage. EY then ran across the ring to fire up the crowd on behalf of Ink, Inc. I saw Super Dragon do that spot at a PWG show years ago. Suddenly, Young took the "hot tag" for Moore and cleaned house on his partner, Jordan. EY celebrated, then Moore and Neal hit a combination top rope neckbreaker on Jordan for the pin and the win. EY celebrated with Ink, Inc. and the Rule Book post-match as Jordan came to life in the background. EY then made nice with Jordan to conclude the bit.

WINNERS: Ink, Inc. at 6:38. One of those examples where TNA has no idea how to get over a character (EY), so they go for the "silly wrestling shtick" to draw cheap heat because some of the decision-makers don't take the genre seriously. (n/a)
 
Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 11 2010, 01:18 pm
4 -- X Division champion JAY LETHAL vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS -- X Division Title match

Very quick transition from the silly comedy to the unhyped X Division Title match. Lethal hit the Lethal Combination early on, sending Williams rolling to the outside. Back in the ring, Lethal continued to dominate, then hit a springboard moonsault for a two count. Lethal tried to follow with a handspring elbow, but Williams countered with a nice release German Suplex for a two count. Williams continued to work over Lethal before teasing the Rolling Chaos Theory and connecting, but it was only good for a two count. Slow count from ref Hebner, the elder, and Williams argued with Hebner. The crowd chanted, "That was three," which isn't good with the audience is agreeing with the heel. After the debate between Williams and Hebner, Williams tried a top rope huracanrana, but Lethal countered into a sunset flip pin for the win.

WINNER: Lethal at 8:16. It was difficult for the crowd to get into this more-serious athletic match after an over-booked KO Title match and superfluous comedy tag match. The finish was an example of a good "sports finish" in pro wrestling that can be parlayed into a re-match with Williams appearing to be cost the match via an MLB umpire dressed as Earl Hebner slow on a three count, but, unfortunately, there likely won't be any follow-up. (**1/4)
 
5 -- ABYSS vs. ROB VAN DAM -- Monster's Ball match

The crowd was hot for RVD as Taz noted this is it for Abyss since he's supposed to be fired after the match. RVD took the early advantage and used a chair to knock Abyss to a seated position in the corner. RVD followed with a surfboard dropkick to the face, with Abyss getting his hands up to absorb the chair blow. On the floor, RVD hit a turnaround splash that took both men to the ground. Back in the ring, Abyss ran over RVD with an elbow to the face. He tried to introduce his barbed wire board, but RVD countered a slam with a bulldog into the wires. Abyss shook and twitched, then RVD tried to follow with Rolling Thunder, but Abyss moved and RVD ate the wires back-first, which helps explain RVD wearing a t-shirt to wrestle here.

RVD rolled to the floor to sell and recover while Abyss went looking under the ring for a table. Abyss then cracked a trashcan over RVD's head before rearranging the guardrails. Abyss placed a second barbed wire board across the ring apron and guardrail for use later on in the match, as Abyss rolled RVD back into the ring. RVD then cut off Abyss and knocked him back-first onto a standard issue Home Depot table propped up ringside. RVD then followed with a Rolling Thunder onto Abyss through the table for one of those five-second pops before the audience is disinterested.

Back in the ring, RVD hit a spin kick taking a chair into the face. He then wanted a coast-to-coast dropkick, but Abyss came to his feet and threw the chair across the ring into RVD's face to send him flying off the top rope through the barbed wire board below. Some of the ringside fans, who were so concerned with the health of the babyface, chanted, "This is Awesome," as RVD was selling near-death on the board scraps. Back in the ring, Abyss went for a suplex into another barbed wire board, but RVD shoved Abyss off into the board. RVD was instantly recovered and went for another coast-to-coast, this time connecting with the board into Abyss's face. Van Dam then went up top for the Five-Star Frogsplash and paused to do the Rob-Van-Dam thumbs-to-shoulder pose. The pause cost him, as Abyss moved out of the way.

On the outside, Abyss rolled to the floor and was instantly recovered calling for Janice. Abyss retrieved his board from the announce table and brought it into the ring, but RVD ducked a Janice shot. RVD then chucked a chair into Abyss's face. He then walked over to Janice and slowly picked it up to bash Abyss in the gut. Abyss started shaking and convulsing before RVD kicked him in the face to drop him to the mat. RVD followed with the Five Star Frogsplash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: RVD at 12:58. The babyface gets the victory and the heel gets his comeuppance. They kept the "Foley and Flair" blood and gore and guts to a watchable minimum, but it was still your basic no-sell gimmick stunt match. (**1/2)

Post-match: Taz noted that's supposed to be it for Abyss as RVD celebrated in the ring. Taz still wanted to know who "they" is. The problem with TNA's booking of this is that there's more emphasis on the heel revealing a surprise rather than a top babyface, RVD, finally getting his revenge on Abyss, who nearly ended his career and life in the storyline. As RVD left the ring, Abyss leaned into the camera and said, "10-10-10. Get ready, here we come."
 
6 -- STING & KEVIN NASH & "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. SAMOA JOE & JEFF JARRETT -- handicap match

Joe and Pope started things off to let the younger wrestlers do most of the work early on. Pope took a knee to the jaw and slowly backed away to his corner to bring in Sting, which drew a pop. Joe then stomped away on Sting, who came back with a Stinger Splash in the corner. He tried a second, but Joe responded with a uranage slam that sent Sting reeling to the outside. On the floor, Sting rammed Joe into the guardrail to take control of the match.

Back in the ring, Kevin "three days" Nash took a tag and landed signature knees to the mid-section on Joe in the corner. Pope then tagged in and stomped away on Joe before bringing Sting back into the ring. Joe ducked a double clothesline, then knocked down both Pope and Sting with a clothesline. Nash cut off Joe from tagging in Jarrett, then landed a splash in the corner. Nash tried again, but Joe ducked and hit an enzuiguiri kick.

Joe then went to his corner looking for a tag, but Jarrett dropped off the ring apron and bailed. Joe sold that he was stunned as Nash, Sting, and Pope were assembled in the background. The trio beat down Joe before Nash tagged in and dropped the straps. Nash then dropped Joe with a Jackknife Powerbomb, which drew a pop. Nash made the cover on Joe for the win. Post-match: Sting shouted down at Joe before the victorious trio left the ring. Tenay wanted to know why Jeff did that.

WINNERS: Nash & Sting & Pope at 7:45. Well, now we can all expect another elaborate storyline centered on Jeff Jarrett that will ultimately confuse the audience even more. (*1/2)

Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 11 2010, 01:18 pm
7 -- FORTUNE (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM & TV champion A.J. STYLES & MATT MORGAN & KAZARIAN w/Ric Flair) vs. EV2 (TOMMY DREAMER & SABU & SABU & RHINO & RAVEN & STEVIE RICHARDS w/Mick Foley) -- Lethal Lockdown match

The match began with Kaz and Richards inside the cage. Stevie took the early advantage and did a mock Flair strut, which set off Flair ringside. Morgan held 'em back as Richards continued to work over Kazarian in the cage. The countdown clock for the first additional entrant was up and A.J. Styles entered the cage #2 for Fortune to set up the two-on-one advantage on Richards. They put him in a double figure-four, then Tommy Dreamer hit the ring and cut off Fortune. As they reached the next countdown, all four men were down in the ring.

Robert Roode then entered as #3 for Fortune to clean house on Dreamer and Richards. Roode ripped off some thunderous chops on Richards before landing a series of knees to the gut. Dreamer was opened up across the forehead as Roode raked his face across the side of the cage. Flair had his hand cocked from the outside and punched Dreamer through the camera hole. Flair told Foley to do something before Morgan stepped in-between. Roode then took Dreamer to the EV2 side and screamed down at EV2 to look at Dreamer now. Roode was on another level of intensity here.

Sabu was in there next as #3 for EV2. Sabu got in some offense on Styles before rocking Roode with a forearm. Sabu then waited for Richards to position himself for a flying splash in the corner. The action came to a standstill for a bit as Fortune regained control. Dreamer's entire face was covered in blood at this point. James Storm then entered #4 for Fortune to continue Beer Money's beat down on Dreamer. Raven was in next as #4 for EV2 and he landed some offense before blowing his nose into a snot rag to give Kaz a treat. Roode was bleeding at this point.

At 15:50, Matt Morgan readied on the outside before storming the cage as the final entrant for Fortune. Raven took a big punch to the face before Morgan kneed Sabu in the gut and dropped him with a big powerbomb into the side of the cage. Morgan held it there for a second to get the move over before picking up an attack on Dreamer with rapid-fire elbows. Styles then sent Richards into Morgan's big boot. Morgan pounded his chest and played to the hard cam as Flair "whooed" in the background. Morgan then picked up Sabu again and landed a series of head butts before holding up his hands, which were covered in blood. Everyone on EV2 was bleeding here.

Rhino then entered as the final entrant in the cage match. Rhino tackled all of the Fortune members before giving Morgan a belly-to-belly suplex. He wanted the Gore on Storm and connected center ring. Rhino then looked up to the sky and called for the top of the cage to come down to officially begin Lethal Lockdown. On the outside, though, Foley and Flair resumed their brawl from Thursday and took the fight to the announce table. The top of the cage eventually came down and the wrestlers began grabbing for weapons. Meanwhile, Flair was busted open on the entrance ramp with Foley landing right hands.

EV2 had control at this point as men seemed to just be walking around trying to figure out what spots to execute. Raven and Morgan suddenly started a big weapon brawl trading trashcan lid shots and Kendo stick shots. Raven tried to tackle Morgan in the corner, leading to a brawl in the corner. Morgan then tried a Carbon Footprint, but ate the cage and sold a right knee injury. Richards proceeded to chuck Kaz into the cage door, sending Kaz flying to the floor through the door. Richards then chased Kaz on the outside and Kaz started scaling the cage to the top of the cell. There was a table up there, then Richards gave chase. Oh, and a ladder.

The fight was in the ring, on the cage, and on the floor as the director tried to keep up with a lot of action everywhere. At 23:00, Kaz placed Richards on the table positioned on the top of the cell. Kaz then climbed the ladder and suddenly Brian Kendrick appeared on top of the lid. Kendrick tried to attack Kaz, but tipped over the ladder and both men fell to the lid. Kendrick then recovered and back-dropped Kaz through the table. Back inside the cage, Styles and Dreamer were brawling as Kendrick was meditating on top of the cage. They cut away from that shot to show Dreamer give Styles a Dreamer Driver off the top turnbuckle for the pin and the win.

Post-match: they showed men selling various injuries in and out of the ring. Morgan was shown holding his right knee, Raven was covered in blood, Kendrick was still doing his thing on the cage lid, and Dreamer quickly celebrated the victory as they cut away.

WINNERS: EV2 at 23:38. The babyfaces got the ultimate victory over the heels to apparently conclude the feud...unless of course it continues again. Satisfying brawl with some stand-out individual performances during the match. It will be interesting to see where they go from here with the Fortune group after the loss to EV2. (***1/4)
 
8 -- JEFF HARDY vs. KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- TNA World Title match for the vacant TNA World Hvt. Title -- No DQ, no time limit match

The bell sounded and Hardy and Angle went to work on Anderson early on. Anderson then avoided a corner attack and Angle fell to the outside. Tenay noted TNA management wanted to "make this wide open" with the No DQ, no time limit addition to the match. Anderson teased an early pin, but Angle re-entered to break up the pin. All three men then came together for a double German Suplex, with Angle suplexing each opponent onto the other to draw a crowd pop. Angle then chucked Anderson to the outside and went to work on Hardy. Hardy countered a whip to the ropes, though, and dumped Angle over the top rope to the floor with Angle selling a head injury. They cut to a shot of TNA president Dixie Carter ringside for her first camera time of the PPV.

Angle re-entered the ring with a burst of energy and executed a series of German Suplexes on Anderson. Hardy re-entered the picture and Angle applied a double anklelock, but neither man tapped. Angle, with a cut over his right eye, went up top, but Anderson cut him off. Anderson then executed his Rolling Sentaun bomb from the top and Angle sold that injured rib. Suddenly, Hardy came off the top with a Swanton Bomb onto both men to break up Anderson's pin. Hardy covered both men, but both kicked out.

At 11:00, they reset with Angle and Anderson battling up top. Angle then hit a twisting bodyslam from the top. Angle couldn't make a cover, though, and Hardy covered Anderson for the nearfall. Hardy hit the Twist of Fate on Anderson, then went up top and nailed the Swanton Bomb. He made the cover, but Angle yanked Hardy off the cover and right into the Anklelock center ring. Anderson broke it up, then pulled Angle into his grasp for the Mic Check, resulting in a two count. Angle, with another burst, went up top and hit a moonsault on Hardy for another close two count. Hardy rolled to the floor and it was up to Angle and Anderson for the moment. They teased finishers as the ref was getting too close to the action. Yep, right on time, Hebner was bumped.

Angle and Anderson had a double knock down, then Eric Bischoff came to the ring with steel chair in hand. Taz sold befuddlement. Bischoff entered the ring with chair in hand and looked down at Angle and Anderson. Suddenly, Hulk Hogan's music hit. The crowd popped as Bischoff sold confusion. They cut backstage to show Hogan limping out on crutches. Hogan slowly, slowly made his way to the ring and needed help getting into the ring. All this going on in the middle of a World Title match. Hogan needed assistance getting into the ring as the wrestlers sold mid-match transition holds like they were shot.

Hogan confronted Bischoff about what he was doing, then Bischoff took the crutches from Hogan. Hardy then entered the ring to play peacemaker. Hogan handed a crutch to Hardy to square off against Bischoff. Angle came to his feet and Hardy broke the crutch over Angle. Hogan and Bischoff liked what they saw before Hardy broke the other crutch over Anderson's back. Hardy then covered Anderson and made the cover for the win. So, the man facing felony drug charges is TNA's new champion.

Post-match: They cut to a shot of Dixie Carter looking stunned ringside. Jeff Jarrett, then Abyss came to the ring and celebrated with Hogan, Hardy, and Bischoff. RVD stormed the ring and over-acted confronting Hardy about what he's doing. Hardy then decked RVD with the title belt and Abyss hugged him. TNA had a Xerox of the 1996 Bash at the Beach scene with the fans pelting the ring with trash. They started to sign off with Abyss posing for the hard camera. Hardy and Hogan then hugged as someone blasted two of them square in the face as the PPV went off the air.

WINNER: Hardy at 18:37 to become new TNA Hvt. champion. So, we can see where the storyline will probably be explained with Jeff Jarrett wanting control of his company back, Hardy "selling out" after RVD was favored by Carter over him, Bischoff likely getting Carter to sign over the company to Bischoff and/or Hogan instead of firing Abyss, and then TNA establishing a babyface alliance spearheaded by Angle, Anderson, and Joe to combat Abyss, Hardy, and Jarrett in matches. A lot of people will probably feel let down by the "they" reveal and the non-finish to the main event title match. We'll see what TNA makes of it in the weeks to come on TV. (***1/2 prior to the finish)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 13 2010, 01:31 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_44448.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) vs. R-TRUTH (w/Eve) -- Team Raw qualifying match

DiBiase landed an early knock-down clothesline before Truth caught him with a boot in the corner. Truth then landed a dropkick and a powerslam for a two count. Cole talked up an artificial rivalry vs. Smackdown, referencing for the first time in about 50 weeks Smackdown defeating Raw at last year's PPV. Suddenly, Goldust's music hit as DiBiase was looking for Dream Street. On stage were Goldust and Maryse. No wait, Goldust and Marlena. Wait, Goldust and Aksana. Goldust stroked the title belt, distracting DiBiase, then Truth scored a close nearfall followed by the Lie Detector for the pin and the win. Cue up Truth's music for some more awkward dancing as Goldust and Aksana continued to pose on the stage.

WINNER: R-Truth at 3:21. Your average storyline-driven Raw match to continue the DiBiase vs. Goldust feud that will likely lead to a battle for possession of the belt. (*)

2 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. TYSON KIDD -- Team Raw qualifying match

Here's an opportunity for a dose of athleticism on Raw. Kidd blocked an early high-flying attempt by Morrison before settling into a reverse chinlock center ring. Morrison flipped out of the hold before dropping Kidd with a dropkick. Morrison then landed a series of clubbing right hands in the corner. Morrison followed with a leaping leg lariat for a two count. He tried to follow up with a springboard move, but Kidd blocked with a Russian Legsweep off the second rope for a two count. Kidd then teased the Sharpshooter, but Morrison flung him away to the outside. Back in the ring, Kidd and Morrison exchanged great nearfalls in succession before Morrison busted out a sweet-looking back flip-over neckbreaker of sorts. Morrison with the cover for the win. They replayed the finisher a few times to get over the move.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:21. Very good three-minute TV match. It was a taste of what kind of match they could have if given 10-15 minutes. It was good positioning by WWE trying to get over Morrison's "new intensity" via juxtaposition matched up against mellow, unremarkable Kidd. (**)

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. ZACK RYDER -- Team Raw qualifying match

The crowd chanted Santino's name early on as Ryder knocked down Santino before landing a running boot to the face in the corner. Ryder tried a pinfall, but Santino kicked out three times. Ryder, frustrated, pounded on Santino's back before airballing with the Rough Ryder. Santino then made his babyface comeback and set up the Cobra. The crowd popped as Santino struck Ryder in the mouth with the Cobra for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Santino started doing his victory celebration until Tamina ran into the ring. Tamina then tackled Santino with a Thesz Press and hugged him for continue the celebration. She did the Cobra and met Santino's Cobra leading to awkward silence. They hugged and she raised his arms, then the crowd cheered.

WINNER: Santino at 1:45. And now Team Raw consists of Morrison, Truth, and Santino. That graphic showing the line-up isn't exactly intimidating. (3/4*)

4 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Otunga and Slater) -- non-title match

Gabriel tried an early leg kick, which Orton no-sold before knocking him to the floor. Orton rolled Gabriel back in the ring, then glared at Slater and Otunga. Orton kicked Otunga in the gut before teasing a punch, but the ref stepped in-between and gave Nexus the boot. Orton smiled as Otunga sold that he was upset about the plan being foiled. Or was he pretending to be upset with a master plan in mind? Gabriel's alone and Orton's in control going to break.

Back from break, Orton was toying with Gabriel, who tried to fight back with leg strikes before Orton decked him with a dropkick for a two count. Orton followed with a huge Irish Whip in the corner for another two count. Gabriel then used his quickness to avoid Orton's offense and stun him with kick strikes. Gabriel followed with a slingshot sentaun from the ring apron after teasing the 450 Splash, which resulted in a two count. Orton then came back with an uppercut, only to take a jawbreaker and double-foot kick to the face from Gabriel. Gabriel made a cover, but Orton kicked out as they hit the top of the hour. Orton fought out of a reverse chinlock, which showed too much light, before taking a knee to the gut. Gabriel with another nearfall, then another chinlock as Cole reset the show. Orton then escaped the chinlock with a side suplex. He ducked a desperation spin kick and hit the trademark backbreaker for a two count. Orton proceeded to make his comeback, including a snap powerslam off the ropes. The crowd came to life as Orton teased the RKO, but not before hitting a nice belly-to-belly suplex popping his hips for a two count.

Gabriel then cut off Orton with a kick to the head and went up top. The crowd came to life shrieking in horror as Gabriel went for the 450 Splash. He went for the 450, but seemed to overshoot the move, and he caught Orton flush in the shoulder on the way down as Orton was trying to roll out of the way. Both men sold the move as the crowd wondered what was next. They slowly came to their feet after a few moments, then Orton shot Gabriel a look and dropped him with the RKO. Orton with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Orton stopped selling a shoulder injury following the 450 Splash to his upper body and celebrated in the corner with his Orton pose. They replayed the finish and cut back to Orton looking over his shoulder at the Videotron to admire his work. Orton posed some more as Cole plugged Orton vs. Barrett at Bragging Rights. One tight zoom on Orton with a determined look in his eyes concluded the segment.

WINNER: Orton at 11:02. Good TV match. Orton gave Gabriel enough offense for Gabriel to get a rub working with Orton. They were also able to work a nice back-and-forth match without it coming across unrealistic considering Orton had thousands of matches more experience over Gabriel. (**1/2)

5 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match -- Team Raw qualifying match

Just as the bell sounded, Bryan came flying at Sheamus with a knee strike to the face. The ref had to break it up, then Bryan knocked Sheamus to the outside. The crowd was loud with a "Daniel Bryan" chant as the action moved to the floor. Bryan sent Sheamus into the ringpost with a dropkick before rolling him back into the ring. Cole continued to rant on Bryan while selling that he's completely delusional as the lead announcer. Cole said Team WWE lost to Nexus at Summerslam, apparently forgetting Super Cena's comeback on Barrett and Gabriel to win the match. Sheamus cut off Bryan's offense back in the ring as Cole reminded viewers Sheamus took out Triple H months ago. Bryan landed multiple kick strikes to the chest, then fired off a final kick strike to the head. Bryan with a cover, but Sheamus kicked out. The crowd chanted Bryan's name again as Bryan went up top and landed a double-foot missile dropkick for a close two count. Sheamus then suddenly came back with the Irish Hammer to the face that floored Bryan. Sheamus proceeded to drop multiple knee strikes to the head as the ref reprimanded him. Sheamus backed away, then stalked Bryan, who sold that he was KO'ed. Sheamus smiled, then approached Bryan to pick him up. Sheamus got a little cocky, though, and Bryan nearly scored a pin with a sunset flip. Sheamus, upset, came back with the Brogue Kick to the face for the pin and the win. Sheamus got up selling that he couldn't believe Bryan's resiliency.

WINNER: Sheamus at 5:17. The outcome was predictable with Sheamus having the "experience" edge and Team Raw needing some heels, but a strong match-up following up on last week's odd booking. Bryan eventually needs to make that comeback and Bryan vs. Sheamus as an actual feud has tremendous potential. (**1/4)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 13 2010, 01:31 am
6 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. C.M. PUNK -- Team Raw qualifying match

Cole excitedly talked up the Raw GM for completing the trade bringing over Punk to Raw. The match moved to the floor early on with Punk taking control of the match. Back in the ring, Bourne cut off Punk and dropped him with a kick in the corner. Bourne then went up top and teased the Air Bourne splash, but Punk came to his feet and crotched Bourne. Punk then hit the G2S for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Punk wasn't satisfied with just a victory. Punk blasted Bourne to the outside before ramming him head-first into the ringside barricade. Punk then rammed Bourne shoulder-first into the ringpost, dropping Bourne on the floor. Punk followed by slapping on the Anaconda Vice trying to rip Bourne's shoulder off. Multiple referees stormed out to finally separate Punk as Lawler suggested Punk could get himself kicked off Raw if he's not careful. The camera zoomed in on Punk with an Andre shot as he swaggered away in control of the situation.

WINNER: Punk at 2:17. Effective match and angle to re-establish Punk on Raw, but there needs to be consequences after Punk's actions for it to mean anything. I doubt that's even on WWE's radar. Punk "having an issue with Smackdown" for Bragging Rights is a highly artificial storyline as a microcosm of the entire artificial build-up for Bragging Rights, but at least it's something. (*)

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) -- Winner is Team Raw captain -- No DQ match

Lawler essentially told Cole not to let his head explode trying to figure out who to root for. Cena gained the early advantage and Miz scrambled to the outside. Cena followed him on the outside, but Riley grabbed his feet and dropped him with a clothesline to take advantage of the No DQ rule. They cut to break with Cena selling on the outside and Miz acting cocky in the ring.

Back from break, Cena made a comeback with a flying bulldog and scored a two count. As Cena scored the nearfall, Riley sold like there were alligators surrounding the ring disallowing him from entering the ring to help Miz despite the early use of the No DQ help. Miz then chucked Cena to the floor and Riley landed some shots. Miz took Cena to the Raw announce table and teased the Skullcrushing Finale into the table, but Cena did a "feat of strength" to escape. Miz then cut off Cena's comeback and shoved him off the table into the guardrail.

They reached the top of the hour as Miz continued to stand on the table while Cena sold on the floor. Miz tried to follow up, but Cena flung him away. Riley tried to get involved again, but Cena decked him. Cena then tried to charge into Miz ringside, but Miz moved a piece of the guardrail cover, causing Cena to run into the exposed rail.

Back in the ring, Miz measured Cena for a charging corner attack, but Cena moved. Cena then started his full comeback and hit a sit-out slam setting up the Five Knuckle Shuffle while gasping for air. After dropping the Shuffle, Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment, but Miz slipped out. Miz then nailed a boot to the head and scored a nearfall. Miz followed with the Reality Check, but Cena kicked out. They cut to a shot of Riley holding Miz's MITB briefcase ringside, then Riley handed him the case. Miz measured Cena, but Cena ducked a case shot. Cena then slapped on the STF center ring. The crowd was hot as Miz crawled across the ring looking for a break. Riley entered the ring, but Cena took him out with a football tackle before slapping on the STF. Riley fought the hold wildly before Cena dropped the hold. Cena then focused on Miz and wanted the AA, but Miz slipped out. Husky and Hennig suddenly hit the ring. Cena ate a swinging neckbreaker, then Harris landed a flying sentaun. Miz capitalized by rolling over Cena and making the cover for the win to become captain of Raw. So, it's Miz, Punk, Morrison, Sheamus, Santino, Truth, and a silhouetted seventh member.

WINNER: Miz at 10:31 to become Raw Team Captain. Good match and strong showing from Miz, who continues to grow into his big boy heel shows with more opportunities like this to work with top stars in big matches on Raw. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 14 2010, 10:03 am
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 10-11-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report. (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10014580.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The All-Night Express (Kenny King and Rhett Titus w/Austin Aries) defeated the Dark City Fight Club (Jon Davis and Kory Chavis) in 8:51. King and Davis went back and forth for the first couple minutes, with King getting the advantage and the ANX following up with some double team work on Chavis.

At 5:00, Chavis went for the tag, but Titus had knocked Davis off the apron and the ANX hit a couple nice kicks. Davis finally tagged in after Chavis countered a King hip attack of some kind into a nice powerbomb. Davis hit a powerslam on Titus for a nearfall. The match broke down with all four men in the ring.

King did his cartwheel kick and shotgun knees in the corner on Davis. Chavis hit an elevated powerbomb on King and Davis hit the Pounce on Titus, which was immediately followed by King rolling up Davis for the three count.

Joe's Judgment: Rollup finishes are what they are and I'm not going to complain about them here. Good action, even if there was no selling (at least from the DCFC), psychology, or really anything other than action.

2. Kevin Steen vs. Steve Corino never happened. Cabana and Generico sat at the timekeeper's table. Steen grabbed the mic and said that HDNet had been trying to screw them for a long time by censoring Corino, cutting out their matches, and such. Cabana told them to shut up and wrestle each other. Steen said there was no way he would ever fight Corino.

Corino said that he and Steen were the ones drawing the money, not "the golden boy who's leaving". Corino told Steen that the grass was greener somewhere else. Steen took the mic and said the golden boy was leaving, but not Tyler Black. Steen said that he quit and he and Corino walked out through the crowd.

Joe's Judgment: Steen and Corino continue to be the most entertaining act in wrestling. Can't wait to see where this angle goes.

3. Christopher Daniels defeated Roderick Strong (w/Truth Martini) in a non-title match in 14:16. Both men came out firing with strikes, Daniels getting more. At 1:30, Daniels caught Strong with a slap on the apron and then a dive to the floor. More back and forth action on the floor in the first few minutes.

Strong worked on Daniels' back on the floor and when back in the ring went to a waistlock. Strong hit a backbreaker and then some bodyscissors as Truth read some of the Book of Truth to him. Daniels countered a backbreaker into a nearfall but Strong was able to maintain his advantage until Daniels came out on top in a chop battle at 8:00, then reversed a Strong pin into one of his own.

Strong locked in a Boston crab, but Daniels got to the ropes. Daniels knocked Strong off the top rope, went for a crossbody, landed on his feet, hit a forearm, clothesline, and leg lariat, then an STO, and some mounted punches. Daniels got two with a blue thunder powerbomb.

Shortly afterward, Strong hit a uranage backbreaker and a gutbuster for a good nearfall. Strong set Daniels on the top rope and hit a top rope side slam for another nearfall. Roddy went for a Gibson Driver, but Daniels countered and hit an AJ Styles-esque Lionsault into inverted DDT.

Both men went to ringside and Josh Raymond and Christian Able ran down to distract the ref. Truth climbed to the top rope with the Book, but Daniels crotched him on the turnbuckle. Truth fell down and made some exaggerated movements, leaving the book in the ring. Strong re-entered the ring and hit the Sick Kick for two, but the ref noticed the Book and stopped counting. Strong acted confused and Daniels hit a uranage and the BME for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: I'm not sure what that finish does for anyone involved. The match was great up until that point, but the finish just left me confused. I think Daniels and Strong could do great things with 30+ minutes and no interference, so hopefully the inevitable title match will get those two things. Otherwise, I've seen this match enough already.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 14 2010, 10:04 am
WWE NXT Results: 10-12-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_44473.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and challenge result.

1 -- NAOMI (w/Kelly Kelly) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/Maxine)

Alicia heeled on Naomi by pretending to beg off needing a break before landing a kick to the gut. Alicia worked over Naomi, who came back with a neckbreaker for a two count. Naomi then went up top and missed with a high cross-body block. Alicia then nearly botched an axe kick for a two count. She followed with a second axe kick and that was it.

WINNER: Alicia Fox in 4:00. Good focus on Naomi getting her some in-ring time. At times, it was hard to tell who was the Pro and Rookie in the ring.

2 -- A.J. (w/Primo) vs. GOLDUST (w/Aksana)

Goldust tried to encourage the shy Aksana from the ring apron as A.J. dominated early on. Aksana tried to follow with a scoop slam, but A.J. scored a pin with a roll up for the win. More problems for Aksana.

WINNER: A.J. in 2:00. Post-match took precedence...

After the match, Goldust took the mic and said the immigration issue must be driving her crazy. He said there are options. Yep, you knew this was coming three weeks ago. "We could get married," Goldust said. "What did you say?" Aksana asked. Goldust said he would do anything to help her. He dropped down to one knee and asked Aksana to marry him. Aksana contemplated her future and smiled before saying, "Yes." Cole screamed in celebration and said they finally have a reason to watch NXT. Cole said it's "bigger than Jim and Pam." Eh, no. Cole thanked them for saving the show tonight. And the video feed cut off, apparently signaling the end of the show, which checked in at 51 minutes this week.

Updated Immunity Standings after this week's reset:
-- A.J.: 1 point
-- Naomi: 1 point
-- Maxine: 0 points
-- Aksana: 0 points
-- Kaitlyn: 0 points
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2010, 11:36 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 10-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_44520.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KELLY KELLY (w/Natalya) vs. LAYLA (w/Michelle McCool)

After the opening bell, Layla offered her former Extreme Expose partner an interpretative dance apparently distract Kelly. Layla took control early on, then Kelly made an obligatory comeback. Layla cut her off, then got cocky going for the Sharpshooter while teasing Natalya on the outside. Kelly escaped, though, and flung Layla to the outside. The referee was caught up with McCool on the outside, allowing Kelly to catch a distracted Layla with a roll-up back in the ring for the win.

WINNER: Kelly in 4:00. Fine match with the basic story of the babyfaces in control and the heels struggling to be on the same page again heading to Bragging Rights.

2 -- CURT HAWKINS vs. TRENT BARRETA

Hawkins took control early on by yanking Barrett off the top rope onto the ring apron. They cut to an early break.

The announcers tried to establish this match as a way to impress Smackdown team captain Big Show trying to get on the Bragging Rights line-up. Barreta made a comeback against "aggressive" Hawkins with some nice-looking aerial moves. He went up top one too many times and Hawkins dropped him to the corner of the ring. Hawkins then dropped the heat-seeking elbow from the top rope for the win.

WINNER: Hawkins in 10:00. You never know with WWE if it's a sign of someone in line for a push or just taking up space on Superstars, but they're certainly getting over Hawkins's finishing move.

3 -- PRIMO (w/A.J.) vs. DARREN YOUNG

They've managed to strip away Young's individuality in short order since he was kicked out of Nexus, making him just another guy now. Primo was the aggressor to start things off and scored a nearfall following a dropkick. Lawler noted he was at the New York Comic-Con over the weekend and Cole didn't have too many fans there. Young made a comeback with left hand jabs as Cole became agitated that Lawler was no-selling him. Cole told Lawler he used to "put over JR all the time" on commentary. Primo was looking for a backstabber, but Young countered into a full-nelson faceplant for the pin and the win. A.J. was sadly disappointed here. Young celebrated a bit as Primo rolled across the ring to get some consolation from A.J.

WINNER: Young in 4:00. Half the battle is staying on TV. Fine win for Young, although it's hard to stand out when WWE has toned his character down so much.

4 -- MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX (w/MAXINE)

Fox quickly controlled the proceedings and began working on Melina's left side. Melina then made a fired-up comeback with consecutive right hand strikes and clotheslines. Fox cut her off, though, and landed an inverted facebuster for a close nearfall. They cut to a shot of Maxine sellin disbelief ringside. Fox tried to finish off Melina with an Axe Kick, but Melina ducked and bridge pinned Alicia, showing off her flexibility, for the pin and the win. Melina celebrated to close things out book-ending Superstars with Divas matches.

WINNER: Melina in 5:00. Good main event. Nice to see them receive a TV main event slot, even if it Superstars.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2010, 11:37 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 10-14-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44521.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only. Those who watched the show, except for the mockery of a women's match, the first 75 minutes of the show was all talk.

(1) MADISON RAYNE vs. TARA (c)
Knockouts Championship Match

Rayne points to the mat, and Tara lies down. Rayne makes the cover. The ref looks confused for a moment, then makes the count.

WINNER (and new Knockouts Champions): Madison Rayne in 5 seconds.

(2) SAMOA JOE vs. ABYSS

Joe storms the ring and unloads with a series of jabs in the corner. Abyss connects with a knee lift, but then whiffs on a charge and eats a Pele. Joe goes with a Face Wash. Abyss dodges a clothesline, but then Joe nails a new high side-kick. He drops a Senton Bomb on Abyss, then beats him over to the ropes. Abyss comes back with a Choke Slam out of nowhere, then leaves for a chair. Before he can get back in with it Joe Suicide Dives the chair back into Abyss. Abyss grabs the ring bell and whacks Joe in the head.

WINNER: Samoa Joe by DQ in 2 minutes.

Joe is busted open. Abyss rolls him back into the ring, but Joe can't get to his feet. Abyss starts to unload with punches when RVD's music hits. Abyss flees as RVD hits the ring. RVD calls down some trainers to help out, but Joe's in no mood to accept help—he shoves them away and storms off.

(3) "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. JAMES STORM, ROBERT ROODE, KAZARIAN, DOUGLAS WILLIAMS, & AJ STYLES (w/RIC FLAIR & MATT MORGAN)
Handicap Match

Williams starts things up locking up with Pope, who the crowd is back behind. Pope hits some quick strikes, but Williams brings him up short with a knee lift and a European Uppercut. He then runs squarely into a leaping forearm from Pope and a big uppercut for two. He tags in Kazarian, who gets knocked around the ring with some shoulder blocks before he tags in AJ. Pope knocks AJ down into the ropes and hits him with The Coronation, taking a moment to pop Flair at ringside. Morgan knocks him from behind and beats him down. He rolls Pope in to AJ, who covers for two before pulling Pope up. Roode tags in. Pope tries to rally, but can't. Roode tags in Storm for the Beer Money Suplex. Kazarian tags back in and hits a beautiful high dropkick for two. Kazrian whips Pope into the heels' corner—Pope elbows the heels. Kazarian holds Pope still for AJ's flying forearm. Pope dodges, but AJ stops himself short. Pope knocks him; AJ tries to come back with a Pele, but nails Kazarian. Pope runs AJ into Williams and gets a School Boy on Kazarian for a long two count. Beer Money come back in and hit the DWI, and Kazarian rolls into the cover.

WINNER: Fortune in four minutes.

(4) MR. ANDERSON vs. RVD
#1 Contender's Match

They trade forearms to start. The crowd sounds evenly split. Anderson goes to a knife edged shot, so RVD kicks him in the gut. Anderson tries to kick back, but RVD catches it and does his reverse Ensuguri. RVD beats Anderson into the corner and nails his Extreme Monkey Flip for two. Anderson rolls out of the ring for a breather, but eats a Baseball Slide. RVD flips out to the apron. Anderson tries to cut him off, but RVD kicks him off and nails a Moonsault from the apron to Anderson's head.

[END SHOW]

Reaction starts with RVD rolling Anderson into the ring. He goes to the top rope, but Anderson knocks the rope and crotches him. Anderson looks for a Superplex, but RVD shoves him off. RVD gets back up, but again Anderson crotches him, and this time nails the Superplex. A cover gets two. Another one gets two too. Anderson drives the tip of his boot into the side of RVD's temple. He whips RVD's off into the ropes, misses a clothesline but then connects with a back elbow for two. Anderson gets some strikes and then cinches in a chin lock. The crowd is chanting for RVD, who powers out before getting kneed back down for two. Anderson lays in with stomps, then chokes RVD against the middle rope. He drives RVD's head into the top turnbuckle, then Stomps a Mudhole in him. He yanks him out of the corner onto his back. RVD fights back from his knees. RVD ducks a clothesline and connects with a few of his own. He follows up with a Superkick and signals for Rolling Thunder. Anderson gets up and catches RVD in a Fireman's Carry position in one motion. RVD slips out and nails a Front Power Slam, then a Split Legged Moonsault for two. Anderson connects with a quick Green Bay Plunge for two. He goes to the top rope and goes for a Swanton Bomb (the announcers completely miss the point of that). RVD rolls out of the way and quickly goes for a Five Star Frog Splash, but Anderson gets his knees up. Bischoff comes down to the ring, where he whispers something to Brian Hebner. Hebner doesn't seem happy, as apparently he's been ordered away from the ring. Bischoff and Hebner walk off. As soon as the ref is gone Hardy runs down with a chair. He whacks RVD in the back, then Anderson. He puts Anderson's arm into a chair, then Twist of Fates RVD into the chair.

WINNER: No contest in eleven minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2010, 07:24 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-15-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_44550.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – REY MYSTERIO vs. CODY RHODES – BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Striker said winning the Bragging Rights match affords the winning brand certain luxuries, such as getting the first pick in the Draft Lottery and getting to board the plane first for interbrand shows. Front-first suplex by Rhodes, but a cover only got one. The match slowed within the first minute of the contest. Mysterio wiggled out of a suplex and set Rhodes up for a 619, but Cody escaped the ring before any damage could be done. They went to break about 2:10 into the match.

Rhodes had a version of the rear chinlock applied on Rey, while the crowd was trying to get their man back into the match. Beautiful dropkick from Rhodes after a surprise near-fall by Mysterio. Rhodes fell back with Mysterio in a chicken-wing submission hold. The youngest Rhodes showed a lot of aggressiveness, using kicks and an elbowdrop to keep Mysterio down near the ropes. Overhead wheelbarrow throw for only a two-count. Rhodes tried a knee-drop off the ropes, but Mysterio moved. Seated senton off the top by Rey, then a cross-body, but Cody rolled through for a near-fall. Mysterio rolled through a sunset flip and kicked Rhodes in the face. Unfortunately, Rhodes had to wait seated a beat or two too long, and it didn’t look great. Springboard legdrop from Rey for two. Rhodes came back with an Alabama Slam attempt, but Rey turned it into a headscissors into 619 position. That connected, as did a springboard splash for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 10:36. Kind of had a weird flow to it at times, but overall, the match worked for me.

2 – JACK SWAGGER vs. MVP - BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Swagger’s mascot was back this week. MVP went for an early cover, but only got a one-count. Swagger tried to flee MVP early on, but found an opening and threw MVP shoulder-first into the ring post. He tried it with the opposite post, but MVP stopped him short and booted him in the face. Face-first went Swagger, courtesy of MVP. He set up for the Ballin’ elbowdrop. It found the mark. Swagger slid out of the ring and took a break, but when MVP went out after him, the Swagger Soaring Eagle stood in front and did a dance. MVP threw the Eagle over the announce table. Back in the ring, Swagger took advantage of the distraction and locked in the ankle-lock for the submission victory.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:14. Not much to this one. Good to see Swagger get a spot on the team though.

3 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRIS MASTERS – BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Show was still with the announcers doing guest commentary. Kind of the bottom of the barrel with Masters here. Unless he’s the Smackdown version of Santino Marella. Del Rio did not cleanly break in the corner, but Masters suplexed Del Rio down early for a two-count. He tried the Masterlock within the first minute, but Del rio got to the ropes. Shot to the left arm by Del Rio. More work on the arm by the newcomer. Missed clothesline by Del Rio led to a Samoan drop from Masters. He fired back with clotheslines of his own, but Del Rio again went to the arm. One-armed bodyslam by Masters for a near-fall. Arm-breaker on the knee by Del Rio, followed by his cross arm-breaker. Quick tap-out by Masters.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 2:24. Good win for Del Rio after the loss to Mysterio last week.

4 – EDGE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

Again, Show was on commentary. Ziggler came out alone for his match. The two men traded holds as Vickie Guerrero and Kaitlyn were shown watching the match backstage, together. Edge avoided a boot in the corner and took the legs out from under his opposition. Ziggler fired back with elbows and did some choking of Edge in the middle ropes. Ziggler ended up grounding Edge, but Edge was soon back on his feet. Ziggler was shot off the ropes, but slipped under the bottom rope. Edge met him with a baseball slide. He rolled Ziggler back in the ring, but Dolph got Edge with a boot to the face. He laid in the boots to the chest of Edge while Edge was lying on the mat. Edge ran into an elbow in the corner and Ziggler set up for a Tornado DDT. Edge finagled his way out and booted Ziggler off the top rope and to the arena floor. Ziggler turned things around by simply avoiding the spear. He performed the Zig Zag on Edge, with the back of Edge’s head bouncing off the ring steps. The count was applied by referee John Cone. Edge did make it back in at nine. That’s another type of move that, to me, should be a count-out. Not only was it the finisher of Ziggler, but against the steel steps. Ziggler stayed on offense as they went to break about 5:00 in.

Back with Ziggler dominating Edge on the mat. They showed a replay of the Zig Zag on the outside, and the move looked nasty on replay too – it would’ve been easy for Edge’s head to hit the edge of the steps. Ziggler missed a corner splash and Edge pancaked him. Both men got to their feet and Edge caught Ziggler with a few clotheslines. Two-count for the Rated R Superstar. Sunset flip by Ziggler, but Edge set Ziggler up for the catapult, and Ziggler went head-first into the steel post behind the turnbuckle. Edge-O-Matic for two. Sleeper locked in, but he couldn’t get it fully and Edge DDT’d Ziggler for a near-fall. Crowd was really into it at this point. Edge shrugged off a Zig Zag. Ziggler dodged a spear and went to the second rope, only to be speared out of mid-air. Edge made the cover and got the pin, much to the delight of Smackdown’s team captain.

WINNER: Edge, at 13:00. Individually, both men seem to have become stale in the ring lately, but this match was pretty entertaining.

5 – THE BIG SHOW vs. KAVAL – IF KAVAL LASTS FIVE MINUTES, HE BECOMES A MEMBER OF THE BRAGGING RIGHTS TEAM

The countdown began as soon as the bell rang. Kaval managed to avoid contact until 20 seconds in. Show caught a kick and slapped Kaval right in the chest. Another one by Show in the corner. Show stepped on the lower lumbar region of Kaval. He picked Kaval up by the head and just dropped him. We’re just over a minute in now. Show picked up Kaval and bodyslammed him down at 1:45 of the match. Show implored Kaval to stay down, but the NXT Season Two winner would not heed the warnings of the big man. Kaval fought back with rights to the mid-section, but Show landed a forearm that made the difference. Another slap to the chest by Show. Kaval still tried to get off the mat as the match reached the 3:00 mark. Kaval fought back again, but Show threw him into the corner and again chopped Show. Beal out of the corner that sent Kaval half-way across the ring. Show stepped on Kaval’s head and pulled on his arm. Show, with one arm, just pushed Kaval over the top rope, seemingly content with a count-out win. 45 seconds to go. Instead, Show picked up Kaval by the top of his head and put him back in the ring. Kicks to the leg by Kaval. He went to the second rope and kicked Show in the back of the head. Kaval got Show to a knee and fought off a chokeslam long enough to survive.

WINNER: Kaval, at 5:00. Kaval got so little offense in, it rides a fine line of credibility for Kaval. He survived 5:00 with Big Show, but didn’t really impress. It didn’t help that Cole and Grisham said Show could’ve put Kaval away early on.

- Kaval was still in the ring, and still in pain. Then Tyler Reks walked out to some generic music. He had a new look, staying with the dreads, but he had a beard as well. He did his best, “talk in my deepest voice because I’m a heel” work. Reks said he’s going to be the newest Smackdown breakout star and HE should be on Team Smackdown. He wanted to fight Kaval for his spot, but Teddy Long came out and said Kaval isn’t in any condition to fight after the match with Big Show. Kaval disagreed, saying if Reks wants his spot, he’s going to have to take it.

6 – KAVAL vs. TYLER REKS

Kaval tried to go for his double-stomp early but missed. Hard shoulder knock-down by Reks. He’s a long way from the surfer dude character he portrayed in ECW. Reks did a Torture Rack into a DDT on Kaval to get the pinfall win.

WINNER: Reks, at :54. That’s certainly an interesting development. I’d have to guess things will change with Reks being in the match before Bragging Rights.

7 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. KOFI KINGSTON – BRAGGING RIGHTS QUALIFYING MATCH

McIntyre nailed Kingston early on with a boot and Kingston kicked out at two. More work from McIntyre, this time on the apron. This is for the final Bragging Rights Smackdown spot, while Raw still has one to fill. Shots to the back of the head by McIntyre, but Kingston countered into a cross-body for two. Out of nowhere came the Trouble in Paradise and Kingston got the win.

WINNER: Kingston, at 2:14. McIntyre lost quickly, but got enough offense in to look decent.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 20 2010, 01:09 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-18-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_44617.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE Unified tag champions CODY RHODES & DREW MCINTYRE vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) -- non-title match

Kidd started things off and the heels quickly took it to him. They had the shaky camera early with the crowd rallying behind Kidd, who teased a comeback, only to have Cody kick him in the gut as he was hung across the top rope. Smith eventually took a hot tag at 2:00 and cleaned house on Drew before landing a leg drop for a two count. He wanted the running Bulldog powerslam, but Cody broke up a pin attempt. Kidd then popped Cody from the ring apron. He wanted the Hart Attack with Smith on Mac, but things kind of slowed down. Awkward pause. Smith dropped McIntyre to apply the Sharpshooter, then released it when Kidd screamed at him. Drew then kicked Smith in the knees and hit the Future Shock DDT for the pin and the win as Kidd failed to break up the pin. Kidd dropped off the apron and shouted at Natalya that Smith screwed it up. Smith complained to Natalya as Kidd flashed sort of a heelish smile on the way to the back.

WINNERS: Drew & Cody at 3:22. And the tension continues. The tag champs are an afterthought at this point, and it remains to be seen where they're going with the teased split. Kidd is ready to break out on his own, and apparently it could be as a heel. (*)

2 -- GOLDUST (w/Aksana) vs. ZACK RYDER

Goldust finished off Ryder in 25 seconds with the Final Cut. DiBiase then charged the ring and attacked DiBiase from behind looking to get his title belt back. Maryse tried to get the belt while DiBiase was stomping on Goldust, but Aksana took the belt and ran to the back. Maryse gave chase. DiBiase screamed after her, then Goldust dropped DiBiase with the Final Cut. Goldust's music hit as Cole recapped Goldust still holding the belt hostage.

WINNER: Goldust at 0:24. (n/a)

3 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON & JOHN CENA vs. HUSKY HARRIS & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Cena started things off as the aggressor working over Hennig. Cena pounded and stomped and kicked away at Hennig, who rolled out of the ring to the floor and nearly crashed into the Bragging Rights trophy. "Is that good enough for you?!" Cena shouted toward Nexus on stage as they cut to break.

Back live, Randy Orton delivered a textbook dropkick on Hennig for a two count. Cole recapped that Orton and Cena worked well as a tag team during the commercial. Cena tagged back in and tried to fight off both Nexus candidates before Hennig landed a dropkick on Cena to cut him off. Harris then tagged in and started pounding away on Cena with clubbing forearms. Husky then got down into a defensive lineman stance and charged Cena for a big splash in the corner. Hennig re-entered and got a piece of Cena before Harris re-entered and landed a flying clothesline/splash type move for a two count. The crowd to rally behind Cena again, then Cena avoided a big splash from Husky. Orton begged for a tag as Cena crawled over to his corner and made the tag.

Orton came in hot and landed a big powerslam on Hennig. Orton did his IED facial expressions before taking Hennig off the second rope spike DDT. Orton shot a look toward Barrett on the stage, then teased the RKO on Hennig. Harris tried to enter the ring, but Cena nailed the Attitude Adjustment on Harris, which looked impressive. Orton then dropped Hennig with the RKO and made the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Orton & Cena at 7:53. Harris stood out more than Hennig, who did most of the selling for Cena and Orton during the match. Decent story to the match leading to the post-match taking precedent over the in-ring. (*3/4)

4 -- NATALYA vs. ALICIA FOX

Collar-and-elbow tie-up to start, then a clean break, but Alicia sucker-punched Natalya with a forearm strike to begin an offensive attack. Natalya came back with a suplex and teased the Sharpshooter. Alicia tried to grab the ropes to escape, but Natalya dragged her back to center ring and slapped on the Sharpshooter for the win as the crowd popped.

Post-match: McCool and Layla walked out to rain on Natalya's parade. McCool said she sees Harts everywhere and it makes her sick. Layla said Harts don't belong in the Hall of Fame. McCool said they belong in the loony bin, just like Natalya. Lay-Cool used the two-on-advantage and McCool applied the Sharpshooter to boos. Layla snapped a photo for humiliation purposes, then Natalya reversed the hold. Lay-Cool eventually bailed from the ring to save it for Sunday.

5 -- THE MIZ vs. BIG SHOW

Big Show quickly took it to Miz, then knocked him to the outside. MVP got down on the ground and talked trash to Miz while Show started shoving Raw folks down. Suddenly, Teddy Long's music hit. Long came out on stage and said that since Bragging Rights is only six days away, he suggested they change it to a Smackdown vs. Raw battle royal. The crowd liked that better than a one-on-one match-up. It shows how much WWE has watered down the concept of seeing two wrestlers have a one-on-one battle to settle an issue.

WINNER: Match stopped. (n/a)

6 -- RAW vs. SMACKDOWN BATTLE ROYAL

Back from break, the bell sounded and bodies started flying out of the ring. Meanwhile, Hornswoggle popped Cole's headsets off his head. Cole said one of the teams could build "huge momentum" with a victory here. Suddenly, there was more screaming on the headsets as Hornswoggle hi-jacked Cole's position at the broadcast table. He grunted as Lawler told him to call the action. Mysterio, in his Zubaz pants, hung on to the ropes to avoid being eliminated as more bodies continued to fly. Show and generic Smackdown men then eliminated Henry to get one of the big men out of the match. The crowd became bored and chanted for Bret Hart again.

Raw was down to four or five men as opposed to Smackdown's six or seven as Show continued to dominate men. Sheamus was reduced to just another guy in the middle of this as Morrison and Del Rio started fighting on the top turnbuckle. They had a double knock down and both men fell to the floor. Swagger, Punk, and a random man from Raw went out. Swagger complained to Edge about eliminating him with them being on the same team, so Swagger yanked Edge to the floor and slapped on the Anklelock.

Zeke eliminated Mysterio at the top of the hour. Miz was on the floor acting sneaky here. Jackson then eliminated two Smackdown men, leaving Jackson, Sheamus, and Daniel Bryan. Show dumped out Bryan rather quickly, then made his way to the back. Sheamus and Jackson proceeded to give Show a big suplex, then Zeke splashed Show in the corner. Show fought back and choked Zeke over the top rope. Miz snuck in the back door and tried to eliminate Show, but Show held on. Edge suddenly re-entered the ring and speared Sheamus. Show eliminated Miz, then Edge eliminated Sheamus for the win. Edge sold an ankle injury as Hornswoggle paraded around the ring with the flag to celebrate.

WINNERS: Show & Edge for Team Smackdown at 8:31.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 21 2010, 12:36 pm
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 10-18-10

Result courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_44637.shtml) There was only one match on the show.

1 -- TYLER BLACK vs. DAVEY RICHARDS

The match quickly moved to the outside where chops were exchanged at a fast pace. Black dominated early on as the announcers Hogewood and Prazak debated Black "taking the money" and going to WWE rather than taking ROH's competitive offer. Back in the ring, Richards took control of the action with a cross-arm submission, but Black flipped over into a cross-arm submission of his own. Richards escaped, then hit a kick to the chest for a two count. Very even back-and-forth in the first eight minutes to tell a story of two evenly matched top wrestlers competing for victory.

Black took control of the match set up Richards working back into the match. They traded right hand bombs, with Richards getting the best of the exchange to knock Black to the outside. Richards then nailed a suicide dive and nearly flipped over into the front row to take Black to the ground. Back in the ring, Richards came off the top with a missile dropkick. Black then took a boot to the head and they started trading forearm smashes. Richards won the exchange with a high kick to the head and Black kicked out of a pin attempt.

At 13:30, Richards teased the DR Driver, but Black blocked. Black then knocked Richards to the floor and landed more offense. Back in the ring, Black nailed a springboard clothesline, followed by a lift-up gutbuster out of the fireman's carry position. Black made a cover, but Richards kicked out in time. The crowd rallied behind Richards, who sold on the mat as Black positioned him for a top-rope move. Black teased the Phoenix Splash, but Richards came to his feet and crotched Black. Back on their feet, Richards hit the Alarm Clock kick, Black came back with a strike, then Richards dropped Black on his head with an inside-out running clothesline to put both men on the mat.

At 20:00, they came to their feet on the ring apron and exchanged tired strikes. Richards then nailed five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten kick strikes to the chest. He set up for a suplex and proceeded to DDT Black face-first onto the edge of the ring apron. Black got up and teased walking away from the match, but opted to run back into the ring just before a 20 count. Richards followed with a suplex for a two count, then hit a German Suplex with a bridge for a two count. Black tried to follow with a Shooting Star Press, but Black moved and hit the Buckle Bomb. Black followed with a standing sidekick and made a cover for another two count.

They came to their feet again at 23:30 and countered each other's trademark offense. Black then hit God's Last Gift, but Richards kicked out in time. Black then hung up Richards in the corner and slapped the crap out of time multiple times before landing a double foot stomp to the head. Black followed up with a coast-to-coast dropkick and tried a cover, but Richards kicked out in time. Great sequence. Again, Black went up top for the Phoenix Splash, but Richards got his knees up to block.

At 26:30, they set up another sequence of moves exchanged, then Richards hit the DR Driver for a close two count. Richards followed right up with a Buckle Bomb of his own before hitting God's Last Gift for another nearfall. Richards then slapped on the Texas Cloverleaf without wasting any time and Black tapped out, giving Richards the final word in their ROH feud.

WINNER: Richards via submission at 27:15. Easily one of the best TV matches of the year with a great finishing sequence playing up the story of their feud with neither man able to get the upper hand no matter what each one tried. The crowd really got into the action at the end after being subdued early on. Nice, multi-layered story told from two pros in the ring. The only drawback was the match never seemed to be in jeopardy of ending early, which took away a sense of anticipation of an early pin attempt perhaps ending the match at any time. (****1/4)

Post-match: After a replay of the high points of the match, they cut back to Richards and Black recovering in the ring. Hogewood said they wish Black well in his future endeavors. Richards then took the mic and told Black to tell the WWE wrestlers if they want some real wrestling competition, come down to ROH. Richards then left the ring and saluted the crowd from the top of the stage to conclude the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 21 2010, 12:39 pm
WWE NXT Results: 10-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_44646.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring and competition points.

1 -- KAITLYN (w/Vickie) vs. MAXINE (w/Alicia)

Back from break, Kaitlyn was sporting the C.M. Punk-style hoodie to compete tonight. Vickie and Alicia were wired for sound with headsets as they watched from the ring apron. Cole joked they found Smackdown's new announce team. Mathews just muttered under his breath that he doesn't know what's going on. Cole said it's the single worst segment ever. Maxine began tugging on Kaitlyn's sweatshirt, causing panic by Vickie. After several moments of silence, Mathews announced that Cole was taking a phone call. They cut to a shot of Cole walking away from the table to take the call. He motioned to the ring like he couldn't believe he was watching this. Cole handed the phone over to Chimel for some reason.

Back at the announce table, Cole revealed he was on the phone with his mom. Suddenly, Vickie was accidentally bumped off the ring apron in an awkward spot. Cole said there's a reason why they're on dot com. After a botched sunset flip attempt, Maxine rolled up Kaitlyn with a small package for the win. Kaitlyn, frustrated, yanked off the sweatshirt and threw it at Vickie.

WINNER: Maxine in 4:00. For argument's sake that they weren't intentionally trying to botch spots to give Cole and Mathews more opportunities to get over their "Mystery Science 3000" commentary style on NXT, it's an indictment of WWE's developmental system not having wrestlers ready for TV.

2 -- BELLA TWINS vs. KELLY KELLY & NAOMI

Cole said he can't believe Naomi went on Twitter saying she could take him out. He said no one knocks Wolf Blitzer on the stories he covers. The Bellas started things off working over Kelly, who eventually tagged in Naomi. The crowd chanted for Goldust as Naomi went to work on Brie. Suddenly, a pier-six brawl broke out when the Bellas thought Naomi was working stiff in the ring. Nikki messed with Naomi's hair, then went to work on Naomi as Kelly looked for a tag from the ring apron. Nikki showed aggression dropping Naomi on her head before tagging Brie in. Naomi then broke out of the Bella corner before Nikki yanked her down from the outside. They pulled the switcheroo, which now has a name of "Twin Magic," to score the pin on Naomi. The Bellas celebrated the win as Brie sold that she was a bit thrown by her sister's attitude.

WINNERS: Bellas in 5:00. And your breakout star of the show: Nikki, for tapping into her heel persona from last year that the announcers completely forgot about. Decent match with the Bellas working well to make it seem like a realistic competition for a match victory. (*1/4)

Naomi won the 'Guess the wrestler' and 'limbo' competition, leads over A.J. 3-1, the other three have no points.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2010, 07:12 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_44699.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring resuts only.

1 -- SANTINO MARELLA & KOZLOV vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina)

Cole noted that the night Santino qualified for Team Raw, Tamina came to the ring and tackled him to celebrate Santino's qualification victory. Santino feigned an injury and tagged in Kozlov, who shoved down Jey. Jimmy then tagged in and Kozlov dropped him on his stomach with a waistlock. The Usos began dominating Kozlov as Santino begged the ref to open his eyes. They cut to break with the Usos in control.

Back from break, the Usos were still dominating Kozlov as Santino became frustrated with his inability to get a hot tag. Lawler said he is a little concerned with Santino being the weak link on Team Raw at Bragging Rights. Kozlov finally broke free and tagged in Santino, who landed a hip toss and raised the roof. Santino delivered the Sailor Salute fist drop for a two count as the action broke down. Santino then busted out the Cobra and dropped Jimmy for the pin and the win. They cut to a shot of Tamina trying to hold back a smile as she checked on her men. After a replay of the finish, they showed the Usos complaining to each other while Tamina quietly waved toward Santino to acknowledge his success in the ring.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov in 14:00. Basic, predictable tag match trying to focus on Santino ahead of the Bragging Rights PPV. It's just not realistic for someone like Kozlov to sell for an extended length of time building to the hot tag to Santino. (*1/4)

2 -- DARREN YOUNG vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Regal dominated early on and took Young to the mat to try to control him on the mat. Cole said Regal likes to "pound and ground." Lawler said it's "ground and pound." Cole shot back that at least he didn't call Santino's finisher the Scorpion rather than the Cobra. Young gained control of the match with a side headlock, then pounded on Regal with a forearm to the back. Regal ducked a second and rammed Young into the top turnbuckle before landing a knee strike to the head. Regal followed with forearms to the face before applying a reverse chinlock. Young fought back before Regal landed an uppercut. Regal face-washed Young in the corner, then nailed his big running knee to the head for the pin and the win. Regal lingered in the ring a bit after the match to respectfully acknowledge the fight Young gave him.

WINNER: Regal in 5:00. A good, heart scrap in the ring. They're trying to get over a "toughness" dimension to Young's character, with Regal giving him an endorsement in that area post-match. Solid. (*1/2)

3 -- WWE tag champions CODY RHODES & DREW MCINTYRE vs. FLEXIN' & BALLIN' (CHRIS MASTERS & MVP) -- non-title match

Masters and Rhodes started things off with Masters rocking Cody with clubbing forearm smashes. Cody wanted no part of MVP, who tagged in as Cody slid across the ring to tag in Drew. The pace picked up with MVP working over Drew before Masters tagged in. Masters and MVP then cleared the heels from the ring and pumped themselves up as they cut to break.

Back from break, Cody was working over Masters's leg following a sneak attack from Drew during the break. Cody had a good laugh as he methodically worked over Masters, who teased a hot tag to MVP before Cody cut him off. Enter Drew. MVP eventually took the hot tag as Cody tagged in. MVP landed three consecutive German Suplexes before landing a running boot to the face. MVP knocked Drew off the ring apron before dropping Cody with multiple clotheslines. MVP then set up Cody for the Ballin' elbow drop and connected.

MVP wanted to finish things off with the Playmaker, but Drew broke it up. Masters then slapped on the Masterlock as the action broke down. MVP was eventually left alone in the ring where the numbers came caught up to him as Cody raked MVP's eyes from behind before hitting Cross Rhodes. Cody with the pin on MVP for the win.

Post-match: They cut to a shot of Masters having a huge bump underneath his left eye that was already swollen up, apparently from when he was dumped to the outside during the finishing sequence scrum. They cut to a final shot of Drew and Cody celebrating in the ring to close out the show.

WINNERS: Rhodes & McIntyre in 12:00. Solid tag match. Nice back and forth, with MVP showing renewed vigor during the match and the tag champs continuing to show more chemistry as a unit. It would be nice if they actually came out to the ring together to dispel the thought of them being two singles guys just thrown together as a tag team. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2010, 07:14 am
TNA Impact! Results: 10-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_44697.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- AMAZING RED vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie)

Amazing Red is back! What, he never left? When was his last TV match? Whatever happened to Don West being his manager? This began at 9:20 p.m. It ended at 9:21.

WINNER: Robbie E. in 1:00

2 -- A.J. STYLES vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO -- Street Fight for the TV Title

This began at 8:42. Taz continued his slide into being a heel-sympathizer (albeit inconsistently applied) in defending Bischoff for wanting to create a "fair regime." They brawled on the stage before Styles entered the ring. Taz defended Styles against Tenay's implication that Styles needs his cohorts to win matches. Tenay denied that's what he was implying. Styles used a low-blow to gain the advantage at 2:00 as they first entered the ring. Styles shoved Pope through the ropes to the floor. Styles went for a slingshot dive onto Pope at ringside, but Pope moved and Styles crashed to the floor at 4:00. Abyss attacked Pope from behind. Taz admitted this wasn't fair "and kinda stinks." Abyss gave Pope a Black Hole Slam. Styles smiled and spanked him as a thanks. Styles made the cover. The ref Earl Hebner made a slow reluctant three count and glared at Styles the whole time.

WINNER: Styles in 6:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4

3 -- ROB VAN DAM & SABU vs. BEER MONEY

We're 80 minutes in with about 7 minutes of wrestling. This began at 10:21 p.m. Taz said RVD and Sabu have tagged up for many years many times in the past. Taz wondered why Bischoff picked Sabu to team with RVD. Tenay said he must not be paying attention to Bischoff's career. Taz said it was a rhetorical question. Tenay said he lived it every day in WCW. Tenay accused Taz of being overly friendly to Bischoff and Hogan. Taz said he's always been friendly to them. By 3:00 Beer Money took control of Sabu. Tenay hyped that Mickie James's in-ring TNA debut was coming up along with an Ultimate X match. RVD hot-tagged in at 4:00. Sabu and RVD each hit back somersault splashes leading to a two count on Roode. They continued with double-team moves leading to Storm breaking up another pin attempt. Four-way action ensued. Sabu grabbed a chair and threw it at Storm, but Storm ducked and the chair hit RVD in the head. Roode made the cover and scored the pin. Taz said he can't remember the last time he saw those two miss that chair move. Tenay wondered if it was an accident or premeditated. Taz said he's not sure and he won't take a side.

WINNERS: Beer Money in 5:00.

-Afterward RVD shoved Sabu and accused him of being on Bischoff's side. Sabu and RVD squared of and were about to come to blows when the rest of EV2 ran to the ring and pulled them apart.

4 -- SARITA vs. MICKIE JAMES

This began at 10:35. Taz and Tenay continued to bicker as they plugged the Bischoff explanation coming up in Reaction. Taz said Mickie has "John Nord boots." Tenay wondered where that came from. Taz said he was surprised he brought up John Nord during a Knockouts match. Mickie won with a Thesz Press off the top rope followed by a reverse sidekick.

WINNER: Mickie in 4:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4 -- Nice short match. Good chance for Mickie to show she is a Knockout who can wrestle and look tough doing it. Not everything was graceful, but at least it felt higher impact than most women's matches. Curious how this does in the Q7 ratings, although it's looking like it'll be offset somewhat by being a quarter with two commercial breaks.

5 -- KAZ vs. MR. ANDERSON -- Ultimate X Match

Kaz entered the ring and immediately moved across the cable and went for the big X. Anderson grabbed him by his leg and yanked him down and fought one-armed aggressively. Tenay called him gutsy. Taz said it was all heart. The crowd chanted "An-der-son!" Kaz slidekicked Anderson in the face as they cut to a break.

Back from the break, Anderson again yanked Kaz away from his grip on the X by swinging him until he fell onto his back. Anderson tried to work his way one-armed across the ring, but when he tried to hang on with his weak arm, he immediately fell. Anderson continued to try to stop Kaz from grabbing the X even if he couldn't grab it himself. He gave Kaz a Mic Check, but Tenay said he can't seize that opening thanks to Fortune. Anderson looked under the ring for help. Taz wondered if there was a prosthetic arm under there. Good line. Anderson pulled out a ladder. Tenay explained how that would help. Taz said, "Thank you, Captain Obvious." Finally. Good line, Taz. Anderson climbed the ladder and pulled on the X. The rest of Fortune came out. Morgan gave Anderson a powerbomb. They kicked the ladder out of the ring, then Morgan put Kaz on his shoulders and walked him over to the X which he disconnected to win.

WINNER: Kaz in 9:00.

STAR RATING (**): Not designed to be a classic style match, but the story they wanted to tell was told well. They're building heat on the heels and putting the babyfaces in a sympathetic position while pushing them as valiantly fighting against impossible odds.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2010, 07:16 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_44721.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE BIG SHOW & REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ & SHEAMUS & EZEKIEL JACKSON

This kind of takes the luster off of the seven-man match this Sunday, especially seeing some of these guys interact for the first time. Case in point, Sheamus started things off with Mysterio. Sheamus’ power got the best of Rey’s speed, at least early on. Mysterio tagged Kingston, who landed a springboard cross-body for a two-count. He kicked away at Sheamus, but Sheamus put him down soon after. Kingston low-bridged Sheamus, and Mysterio dropped a seated senton on him. They went to break about 2:30 into the match, with Sheamus still recovering on the outside.

Jackson was in there with Sheamus out of break, and Striker tried to talk about Jackson’s character. The Raw team isolated Kingston and made frequent tags to keep him from bringing a fresh man in. Kingston got close a couple times, and finally kicked Miz off to make the tag to Big Show. The match broke down with all six men getting involved not long after. Miz came off the top rope and right into a chokeslam. Rey climbed on Show’s shoulders and splashed Miz for the win.

WINNER: Team Smackdown, at 8:38. Odd that Miz would take the pinfall loss here. Otherwise, a match that shouldn’t have to take place to hype up the PPV tag match if WWE spent any kind of time creating a rivalry between the two brands in the previous 51 weeks. It just feels like WWE has no other ideas to build the tag match besides having the wrestlers involved fight each other, which makes the actual tag match less special.

2 – JACK SWAGGER vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Santino tried a flying punch, but only half-heartedly, to take Swagger out of his game early on. Swagger took Santino down and rolled around with him until Santino rolled out of the ring. The Swagger mascot quietly made his way over to Santino as if to interfere, but before he could get there, Hornswoggle ran out to keep the eagle at bay. Back in the ring, Swagger shoved Santino a couple times, until Santino fought back. Single-arm take-over by Marella, but that was all he could do. Swagger clothelsined Marella in the corner, then tossed him out of the ring. Horny kept the eagle at bay again, and the announcers discussed the obvious issue, that being Hornswoggle protecting a Raw superstar. Santino gave the cobra to the eagle and Horny gave him the tadpole splash on the outside. In the ring, Santino took it to Swagger, then set up the cobra. Swagger instead grabbed the leg and applied the ankle-lock for the win.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:54. As usual with Santino, the extracurricular events got more of the focus than the match.

3 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN MORRISON

The wrestlers are all competing while wearing their show’s respective t-shirts. Snap-mare and a kick to the back by Del Rio. Double-leg take-down, then Morrison hammered away on his opponent. Running knee to the head only got a one-count. Del Rio turned things around with a back-breaker. Kick to the back by Del Rio, and a beauty. Bell-to-back suplex for a two-count by Del Rio. Alberto continued to work the neck of his Raw counterpart. Del Rio did miss a move in the corner – not sure what it was supposed to be, almost a dropkick I guess, but one you don’t see. Morrison went on the offensive, but Del Rio landed a German suplex with a bridge for a two-count. Morrison ducked the enziguiri, but Del Rio got his knees up on Starship Pain. Del Rio capitalized with the cross arm-breaker for the submission win. Smackdown is 3-0 tonight.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 4:34. Pretty even match, with both guys looking good.

4 – EDGE vs. CM PUNK

Punk still had his right elbow taped. Crowd was firmly behind Edge, chanting his name early on in the match. Side headlock by Edge as the contest began slowly. Punk backed him into the corner, and laid in a few shoulders into the mid-section before the referee could break up the two. Hard whip into the turnbuckle by Punk, and a cover got only one. Edge fought back, but missed his cross-body with Punk draped across the middle rope. That allowed Punk to regain control. Punk hung Edge out to dry over the top rope, but he was hurting in the ring while Edge was writhing in pain outside. They went to break about five minutes in.

Punk had Edge in a body-scissors upon return. Punk went flying, but Edge caught his springboard attempt and turned it into a bodyslam. Both men were down. They traded punches in the middle of the ring, broken up by a few kicks from Punk. He missed a head-shot and the two exchanged counters until Edge came out on top. Suplex attempt, but Punk pushed him away and got him up for a GTS. Edge-O-Match by Edge, but Punk kicked out literally, with a kick to Edge’s head. Grisham called Edge a “future Hall-of-Famer.” That’s probably true. Both men appeared frustrated that they couldn’t get the upper-hand to this point. Running knee in the corner by Punk, but Edge turned the bulldog into an Edgecution DDT for two. Edge climbed to the top turnbuckle, but Punk crotched him. He went up and tried to suplex Edge down, but Punk sent him to the mat. He climbed off the top and set up for the spear. Before he could hit it, The Miz and his flunkey, Alex Riley, came to the ring and pulled Edge out of it. They attacked him on the outside for the DQ.

WINNER: Edge, via DQ, at 13:16.

Kofi came out to attack and threw Riley out of the ring, but Miz gave him the Skull Crushing Finale. Each member of the two teams came out one-by-one and hit one of their pet moves on an opponent, until another person came out from the opposite team and took them out. Mysterio was the last one out, hitting the 619 on Sheamus until Punk came back and attacked him. Edge speared Punk, leaving Smackdown again with the upper-hand. The Smackdown team closed the segment with all of their arms raised in the ring.

5 – LAYCOOL vs. NATALYA & KELLY KELLY

Layla wrestled dressed up as Natalya, and choked the real Natalya in the top rope. McCool kicked Natalya in the face as Striker tried to do a Bret Hart impersonation. She tagged in and did some damage, but when Layla came in, she fell victim to a butterfly suplex from Natalya. Layla went for a neckbreaker but Natalya went for a backslide for two. She tried to hook in the Sharpshooter, but McCool grabbed Layla’s hands to prevent the turn. Eventually, Natalya got it and picked up the submission win.

WINNERS: Natalya and Kelly Kelly, at 2:25. Probably a smart move to keep Kelly on the apron if WWE wanted any semblance of a decent match here.

6 – KANE vs. RANDY ORTON

Surprised there were no interviews leading up to this match, especially to use them as a last-minute opportunity to hype their respective title matches coming up on Sunday. Kane charged out with a few clotheslines in the corner, followed up by a sidewalk slam. He signaled that he was ready to put Orton away early, but Orton squirmed out of the Tombstone and hit his unique back-breaker on Kane. He then set up for the RKO, but Kane fled to ringside. Orton went out and pushed Kane into the ringpost. Orton sent Kane head-first into the announce table, then back into the ring. After a few moments of action, they went back to the outside where this time, Kane took the fight to Orton, slamming his back alternately against the apron and the barricade. Orton was left lying outside the ring as they went to break.

Kane had Orton in a bearhug as the show returned from break. Both men were worn out as if they’d wrestled 15 minutes to this point. Kane kicked at Orton’s gut, but Orton finally reached his feet and fired back with rights. Of course, this was just a tease of a comeback, and Kane gave him a shot to the stomach. Back outside the ring, Orton went spine-first into the ringpost. Another bearhug in the ring, but Orton tried to create separation, and did so with more right hands. He walked right into a back-breaker, though, and Kane got a two-count. Kane landed his clothesline from the top rope for only two. Chokeslam was looming, but Orton elbowed out. He got a boot up on a Kane charge in the corner. He tried to overpower Kane to take him down, but wasn’t successful until he impressively hit a powerslam. He set Kane up for his rope-assisted DDT, and connected. Orton was quite animated, more so than usual, in setting up for the RKO. He was pushed off on an attempt and Kane booted him in the face. As Kane was going to chokeslam Orton, the lights went out. The bell tolled and Orton was behind Kane. When Kane turned around, he fell victim to the RKO. Fin.

WINNER: Orton, at 12:00. I was afraid that, when the lights went out, we’d have another non-finish. Thank goodness I was wrong.

Orton posed with the WWE Title as he went up the ramp. Kane was livid outside the ring. He knocked over the trophy pedestal and tore up the announce table. Crowd was chanting for Undertaker. The bell tolled again, and the lights dimmed. Taker came up from under the ring, breaking through the ring, and trying to drag Kane down with him. He managed to do so, though Kane held on for dear life. From below, Taker grabbed Kane’s head and pulled him down. The lights then went out again and the WWE logo appeared in the corner, signaling the end of the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 04 2010, 11:36 pm
ROH on HDNet Results: 10-25-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Mathieson's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10014918.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Embassy (Necro Butcher and Erick Stevens) defeated Grizzly Redwood and Andy "Right Leg" Ridge in 6:20. Grizzly got a bit of offense to start the match, but Necro quickly took control and Ridge and Stevens tagged in. Ridge hit a couple kicks (with his right leg, of course).

Necro and Stevens hit a double team wheelbarrow into a punch into a suplex on Ridge. Necro continued to beat on Ridge for a couple minutes, culminating with two chokeslams and a short-arm lariat before tagging in Stevens.

Ridge tried to make the hot tag after a stunner, but Stevens caught him. Eventually Ridge kicked Stevens in the head and tagged in Grizzly, who got two with a huracanrana on Stevens. Redwood went up top, but was caught coming off the ropes by Stevens, who threw him outside into a punch from Necro. Necro threw Grizzly back in the ring and Stevens hit Ghanarhea for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: Fun action from three of the wrestlers involved. Grizzly and Stevens work well together, and Ridge has potential, but I just don't care about the Embassy and the Stevens/Necro team doesn't really work. It's too bad, because as I've said for years, Stevens is talented and could really use some direction.

2. The House of Truth (Josh Raymond and Christian Able w/Truth Martini) defeated the Super Smash Brothers in 5:30. The HOT dominated the first several minutes, with some nice double teams including Able powerbombing Raymond onto a kneeling Player Dos.

Dos finally hit a double backflip kick and hot tagged Player Uno. The SSB hit an elevated elbow drop, and Dos sent Able to the outside. He went for a skytwister of some sort, but Able moved and Dos hit the outside. Raymond and Able hit the Tower of Truth on Uno and Able covered for the pin.

Joe's Judgment: Lots of fun while it lasted. I'm really high on Raymond and Able, so to see them get a clean pin is nice. This could have gotten a bit more time, but I do want to see more from both these teams, so this match was definitely a success in that respect.

3. The Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and Claudio Castagnoli w/Shane Hagadorn, Sara Del Rey) defeated the Briscoes to retain the ROH World Tag Team Championships in 18:22. Mark slapped Hero within the first minute, and Claudio tagged in and retaliated with a slap of his own. Mark beat Claudio up and sent him to ringside.

The Briscoes continued to mostly control things, and at 3:30 the Kings teased walking away, but eventually returned. First Jay, then Mark hit dives around 6:00. Jay and Claudio traded shots in the center of the ring, Claudio winning with a springboard European uppercut followed by a tag to Hero. Mark tagged in and got two with a crossbody.

Mark went for an exploder at 8:00, but Hero countered and hit an exploder of his own. Mark was kneeling with his head on the second rope and Sara Del Rey punched him, leading to her being ejected by Paul Turner. The Kings continued to dominate Mark. At 12:00, Mark started to make a comeback, but it was thwarted with an elbow/spinebuster combo from the Kings.

Claudio locked in a modified horse collar, but Mark got to the ropes. Hero knocked him to the floor and Claudio hit a suplex on the mat, followed by Hagadorn choking him out. Claudio hit the UFO for a two count, and held Mark for an elbow, but Mark ducked and Hero hit Claudio. Mark hit a suplex and made the tag to Jay.

Jay hit a double crossbody and then the Jaydriller. He covered, but Hero broke up the pin. Mark sent Hero to ringside and then went up top for the Doomsday Device. Hero pulled him off the top rope into a tree of woe, and Hagadorn entered the ring. He went for a piledriver on Jay, but Jay backdropped him and started menacingly toward him. Hagadorn kicked him below the belt and Claudio covered for the pin.

Post match, Mike Briscoe jumped the guardrail and beat on Hagadorn. The Kings tried to stop him, but the Briscoes prevented them from doing anything. Mike grabbed the mic and said that normally he doesn't interfere in his sons' business, but he'd be damned if he let Hagadorn kick his son in the balls.

Joe's Judgment: The match built so well to a finish that never really came. At least after the low blow have Claudio hit the Ricola Bomb or something so that Jay doesn't just lie there and get pinned by one low blow after standing on the apron for ten minutes. Whatever. Can't say I'm all that excited about the prospect of another Kings/Briscoes match, but they've exceeded my expectations twice already, so who knows?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 04 2010, 11:38 pm
My computer's been down the last couple of weeks so that's why there hasn't been any results. If you need to get caught up with all of last week's results including the WWE Bragging Rights PPV, visit one of my wrestling threads at Neo-Geo or TOKYOPOP (links are below my signature picture)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 04 2010, 11:40 pm
WWE NXT Results: 11-2-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_44992.shtml). Only one match took place (which didn't involve the NXT divas), the wedding and the elimination.

1 -- ALICIA FOX vs. KELLY KELLY

Cole and Mathews debated Taylor Swift, who dropped a tune on "Dancing with the Stars" earlier tonight, trying to seem "relevant" on this Internet broadcast. In the ring, Kelly and Alicia exchanged control before Kelly hit a modified Rocker Dropper for the pin and the win. Cole mocked the execution of the move, which wasn't exactly fluid.

WINNER: Kelly in 2:00. It happened.

Final Immunity Standings:
-- Naomi: 3 points
-- A.J.: 2 points
-- Kaitlyn: 2 points
-- Maxine: 1 point
-- Aksana: 0 points

Wedding: Out first for the wedding was Cody Rhodes as Mathews asked who the wedding coordinator is. Cole said "Johnny Ace" is the wedding coordinator. Dusty Rhodes then came out as the father of the groom. Cole said he thinks "Fozzy" is performing at the reception. Hornswoggle then came out as the ring bearer. Cue up Goldust's theme music and the groom entered the ring with possession of the Million Dollar Title belt. Cole said he thought Goldust and Cody hated each other. Mathews told Cole it's not a real wedding. Cole shot back, "You mean this is a fake wedding?" Cole then mocked his P.R. line sarcastically saying WWE is all about family.

After everyone was asked to stand up, Aksana came out sporting a golden wedding dress. Mathews said he hasn't seen a more beautiful bride. Cole said his wife on her wedding day. He added he's trying to score points at home since he hasn't been home in a while. The "presiding minister" dryly and monotonously introduced the wedding before asking Aksana and Goldust to receipt their vows. The audience chimed in with "What?!" chants. Aksana thanked Goldust for saving her. She started a "U-S-A" chant as Cole said this sounds like an Ed Koskie production. Are we getting a Lagana name-drop tonight? The "minister" stumbled over his lines as the announcers said it looks like Al Wilson. The minister said he objects to this wedding. Because everyone has a price.

Out came Ted DiBiase and Maryse to interrupt. DiBiase said this isn't the first time money has destroyed a marriage. Is this Vince writing a promo on Linda's failed $50 campaign? DiBiase then brought out the immigration dude. DiBiase said there is one thing Goldust can do to save this pathetic sham of a wedding. Dusty Rhodes then cut a promo about going to the Pope, then going down to Mississippi to find a real minister. He said he needs him to come make this lovely couple feel good. So, Mr. Minister, come on down, jack. You knew it. Out came "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase. DiBiase, Sr. walked by Ted, Jr., who sold shock. Mathews mocked the coincidence of these events occurring.

DiBiase, Sr. entered the ring and shook hands as Ted, Jr. asked why his dad is doing this. Ted, Sr. said the look on his son's face right now is priceless. He asked for the rings and asked Goldust and Aksana to exchange I Dos. DiBiase pronounced them "man and wife" and told Goldust to plant a kiss. Dusty Rhodes suddenly scored a kiss, which drew a look of shock from Goldust. Goldust went for his kiss, but Aksana slapped him and walked off. Aksana acted like a heel strutting out of the ring after conning poor Goldust into marriage. Cole said Goldust will have to go back on the Internet tonight.

Maxine was eliminated from NXT.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2010, 12:52 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45048.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Mascot) vs. KAVAL

Swagger dominated early on as Grisham noted Swagger being a former World Hvt. champion. Kaval popped Swagger in the chest with a kick, then Swagger sent Kaval to the outside. Kaval played cat and mouse to set up Swagger for a kick to the shoulder before flying off the top rope with a splash on the floor. Back in the ring, Kaval landed kick strikes and scored a nearfall. Kaval tried to ground Swagger, who came back with a knee to the gut followed by a knee to the back that sent Kaval flying off the apron into the guardrail. The mascot was very pleased with this.

Back in the ring, Swagger settled into a modified Rings of Saturn before Kaval fought to his feet. Swagger cut him right off and knocked Kaval to the outside. Swagger then paraded around the ring while the eagle flapped its wings ringside. Once again back in the ring, Swagger dominated the action some more before nailing the big running Vader Bomb for a two count. Grisham then sent the action to a break with Swagger still in control.

Swagger was still dominating back from break. Kaval then came back with a handspring double foot kick knocking Swagger to the outside. Swagger ran back into the ring, but took multiple kick strikes anyways. Kaval then called for the end and landed a running kick strike to the mid-section for a nearfall. Kaval tried to follow with a springboard smash, but Swagger ducked and followed with an overhead belly-to-back suplex for a two count. They went back and forth trading nearfalls as Striker dramatically built up to a description of Kaval as...exciting.

Kaval tried the Warrior's Way from the top rope, but Swagger moved. The eagle then got involved by grabbing Kaval's foot from the floor as the ref was preoccupied with Swagger. Swagger followed right up with the Anklelock and Kaval was forced to tap out, giving Swagger the win. The mascot hopped right into the ring and celebrated with mascot-like mannerisms while Swagger got his shine.

WINNER: Swagger via submission in 12:00. Good match. It felt like they were holding back a bit, but easily one of the better Superstars matches in a while breaking the mold of the generic WWE style. (**1/4)

2 -- LUKE GALLOWS vs. VANCE ARCHER

Striker did a gravely Vince McMahon voice saying he likes to see two big heavyweights just slug it out in the ring. Archer, as the heel, took control here. Grisham said Gallows has had a "lifestyle change" since leaving C.M. Punk's SES. Archer continued to dominate before playing to the crowd. He took too long going up top, allowing Gallows to drop him off the turnbuckles to the mat.

Gallows made a comeback with successive clothesline before dropping the straps. Gallows looked like Gillberg with his eyes popping out of his head before he ran around Archer in circles and landed a flying splash for a two count. Striker noted an apathetic crowd reaction. Gallows then followed with the Gallows Pole for the pin and the win. To conclude the segment, Gallows smiled for the crowd to indicate he's a babyface.

WINNER: Gallows in 4:00. Just weird. The crowd was about as indifferent as indifferent gets. It would help if WWE actually reintroduced Gallows's character, but it looks like they're not ready to invest that much time into his new babyface persona. (*)

3 -- GAIL KIM vs. ALICIA FOX

Typical start with Alicia taking control with heel tactics. Gail then came off the top with a splash for a two count before Alicia regained control and cut off Gail's attempted comebacks. Alicia tried to take a powder when Gail teased a stronger comeback, but Gail dragged her back into the ring. Gail then hit the Eat Defeat jawbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gail in 3:00. Good showcase for Gail, who hasn't been featured at all recently. Gail and Alicia have nice chemistry in the ring and could add something to Raw once in a while. (*)

4 -- MARK HENRY vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina)

Jimmy was ready to start things off, but Henry wanted a piece of Jey, who kicked Henry in the face last week. Jey found himself in trouble until Jimmy blind-tagged into the match and took out Henry at the knees from behind to take control of the match. That was only momentary, as Henry made a comeback with successive clotheslines. He followed with a big splash attempt, but Jimmy rolled out of the way. Tamina then tagged Henry in the face with a kick from the outside as the ref was distracted. Jey then tagged in and landed a Superfly splash. He made a cover and that was good for a three count.

WINNER: Usos in 4:00. Fine showcase for the Usos. Cheating was the only realistic way for the Usos to win the match and it kept the program going. Just the visual of one of the Usos pinning Henry was beneficial for their progression as a serious act. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2010, 12:55 am
TNA Impact! Results: 11-4-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45052.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SARITA vs. VELVET SKY

Tenay announced that RVD vs. Styles vs. Rhino had just been booked for the TV main event. Sky threw some weak-looking chops at Sarita in the corner. Sarita blocked a DDT attempt and then clotheslined a frustrated Sky. She went into sustained offense and a near fall. Sky fired back with more weak chops. Sarita punched her in response. Sky escaped an underhook powerbomb attempt and threw more weak chops. She followed with a running bulldog type move and a clothesline. Sarita went for a counter, but Sky leveraged herself into landing on Sarita for a two count. Sarita finally executed the double underhook powerbomb for the win.

WINNER: Sarita in 3:00.

2 -- MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK (Generation Me) & TARA vs. SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL (Ink Inc.) & MICKIE JAMES


Taz said Generation Me remind him a lot of himself when he wrestled. Tenay said there is absolutely nothing they do that he did. Taz said he was like Generation Me when he was their age in terms of being self-centered. Tara rode to ringside on a motorcycle. Tara kicked Neal at ringside at 3:00. Taz wondered about the mic dropping backstage. Tenay said it was a technical malfunction, "and believe me, it wouldn't be the first time," he added. Tara broek up a Moore pin on Max. Mickie dove onto Tara. Mickie then kicked Max in the head. Neal then picked up Max at which point Moore leaped off the top rope with a neckbreaker for the win. Afterward GenMe and Tara jumped Ink Inc. and Tara.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. & Mickie at 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/4

3 -- A.J. STYLES vs. RHINO vs. ROB VAN DAM -- TNA World TV Title Match

Tenay reiterated that Bischoff booked this match-up. The referee held the TV Title belt in the air before the match. Styles got in RVD's face. RVD shoved him right into Rhino, who tossed Styles to the floor. RVD and Rhino exchanged a few words, at which point Rhino jumped to ringside and went after Styles. Styles reverse-whipped Rhino into the stairs, then returned to the ring and took on RVD. When Rhino returned to the ring, Styles side-stepped a Rhino attempt at a Gore. RVD recovered and surprised Styles with a jump reverse sidekick to the chest. As RVD and Rhino argued again, Styles dove onto both of them and then rolled up RVD for the win to retain his title. Tenay said Bischoff wins in two ways: Styles retained the title while the RVD-Rhino tension increased.

WINNER: Styles in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2

-Afterward Sabu, Stevie Richards, Tommy Dreamer, and Raven walked out to try to separate RVD and Rhino. RVD shoved Raven. Dreamer grabbed a mic and called for a truce. He asked RVD what's wrong in his head. He complained he won't call him back. RVD asked why he should trust him like he trusted Jeff. RVD said he's wondering who's going to attack him next. He asked why Dreamer is so defensive and asked what he's hiding. Dreamer said they're just playing into Bischoff's master plan. He suggested they "go old school" at Turning Point. By "old school," he means a match where he can use short-cut weapons to cover up for his lack of confidence he can have a full-fledged watchable match without apparatus involved?

4 -- KAZ vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS

Flair came out first and held up his fingers, then joined Taz and Tenay on commentary. Taz called it a real honor. Beer Money walked out to ringside to watch as the match began. Flair said, "The Cowboys are out!" Taz joked, "Better than the ones in Dallas." Flair said Keith Mitchell might be upset, but what's he going to do about it? Taz quipped: "Lose." Williams out-wrestled Kaz in the first two minutes. Flair said Morgan had a chance to be part of the big time, but he bailed out on them too soon to achieve that. In the end, Kaz reverse-whipped Williams into Storm standing on the ring apron, then rolled him up for the win.

WINNER: Kaz in 4:00.

-Williams shoved Kaz in frustration afterward. Beer Money got between them. Flair joined them and offered a handshake to Williams. Williams tentatively accepted, then grabbed Kaz's hand while pointing at his face with the other. Flair tried to talk them into signing a sincere handshake. They briefly shook hands, then everyone stacked their hands in mid-ring.

5 -- ABYSS vs. THE POPE

Pope went on the attack, but Abyss dropped him with a big boot and then worked over his taped ribs with a splash in the corner. When Abyss beat on Pope at ringside, Abyss got distracted by a fan yelling at him. The camera operator gave away the angle by swaying the camera to a fan seconds before Abyss turned to him. Abyss pie-faced one fan and yanked the other fan over the railing and punched him. Abyss yanked two more fans over the railing. He tore the shirt off of one fan before Al Snow, D-Lo, and others intervened. Pope entered the ring and challenged him to a Lumberjack Match at Turning Point. Pope said, "Since you've got hard-on for Pope's congregation," he wanted the fans to be his lumberjacks. Abyss said, "You're on!"

WINNER: No contest in 2:00.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 07 2010, 12:58 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45076.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – EDGE vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

Edge stared down and advanced on Del Rio’s ring announcer, Ricardo Rodriguez, when Rodriguez got into the ring. A little left-over heat from last week. Once the bell rang, the fight immediately went to the outside of the ring. Edge had the advantage and kept things slow in the center of the ring. Edge went hard into the corner, then Edge was sent shoulder-first into the ring post. He ended up back on the outside, where this time, Del Rio was the aggressor. They went to break over 2:00 into the match.

Back with Del Rio holding Edge down in a top wrist-lock. Sunset flip by Edge for two. Del Rio used a unique maneuver to jam Edge’s arm into his knees. Del Rio sent Edge to ringside and rammed Edge’s arm into the barricade. He threw Edge into the ring, rolled over him, and got a two-count. Another arm-hold in the ring, and Edge was able to fight back. He put his head down though, and Del Rio caught him with a boot. However, he flew between the top and middle rope when Edge moved out of the way. Angrily, Del Rio hopped up to the apron, but Edge dropkicked him back down. This time, Edge came out to help him back in. He tried to go to the top, but Del Rio put a stop to that. Edge got the upper hand and headbutted Del Rio to the mat. Cross-body off the top caught Del Rio for a very near-fall. Flying forearm by Edge, then another. He got another close call on a pin. German suplex with a bridge by Del Rio for two. Big DDT by Edge for two, as they continued to go back-and-forth. Edge to the top again, but Del Rio climbed up and gave him a nice enziguiri. He’s a pro at that move already. Edge got his limb on the rope to break up the pin. Del Rio ran into a big boot and the fans could sense he was ready for a spear. As he set up, Nexus’s music hit, and they (sans Wade Barrett) charged the ring. They surrounded the ring, then attacked both men. No bell, but I’m sure it was a no contest.

WINNER: No Contest, at about 13:09 (no bell). A bit slow, but technically fine.

After Edge and Del Rio were quickly dispatched, David Otunga got the mic and said they were taking over. Big Show then walked out. He signaled someone else, and Rey Mysterio came out as well. Kane was next, which is an odd selection given his current main-event heel status. The three of them, along with Edge and Del Rio, got rid of Nexus in short order. Del Rio stayed on the apron, I think.

2 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JTG

Ziggler cornered JTG immediately, as Striker said Vickie Guerrero better hope we don’t bring back Prohibition, or she’ll never get a date. JTG charged into the corner, but Ziggler got a boot up. Neck-breaker from Ziggler, and he got a two-count from it. JTG tried to fight back, and got back to his feet, then dropkicked Ziggler. Zig Zag by Ziggler…but he pulled JTG’s head up before getting a three-count. He then applied the sleeper hold, and referee Justin King called for the bell.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 2:17. Good win for Ziggler after a few highly-publicized losses to Daniel Bryan.

Kaitlyn ran to the ring after the match, presumably to congratulate Ziggler, but an even angrier-than-usual Guerrero came out with a mic. She asked Kaitlyn who she thinks she is, then slapped her hard, sending Kaitlyn to the ground. The ref had to restrain Vickie as Ziggler was visibly angry at what was taking place.

3 – MVP vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES vs. DREW MCINTYRE – MATCH TO DETERMINE THE #1 CONTNEDER FOR THE INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE

MVP came out to new music. Five seconds into the match, Striker declared, “MVP looking good so far.” He did have McIntyre and Rhodes on their heels. Speaking of heels, the two in the match tried to work together a week after breaking up, in order to take out MVP. They seemed to form an alliance in taking MVP down. The winner here faces Ziggler for the belt next week. McIntyre turned first, back-dropping Rhodes out of the ring. He then slammed Rhodes on the steel ramp. Then, they went to break.

McIntyre was in control of MVP out of break, as they showed Rhodes continuing to convalesce on the outside. Rhodes snuck back into the ring to sneak attack MVP. Rhodes had MVP in a unique chin-lock on the mat. MVP got to his feet and gave Rhodes an electric chair. Mac got onto the apron, but Rhodes knocked him back down. Jackknife cover only got two. Ugly neck-breaker by Rhodes as MVP was between the middle and top rope. Rhodes attacked McIntyre on the outside, but took his time going to the top rope. Looked like he was going to jump onto McIntyre, but he ended up getting crotched. McIntyre had a look of evil intentions as he approached Rhodes. McIntyre suplexed Rhodes off the top, with an assist from MVP. MVP was the first to his feet, and he destroyed the former tag champs. It ended up being MVP and McIntyre in the ring. MVP hit the “ballin’” elbowdrop, then set up for his finisher. McIntyre countered and clotheslined MVP down. Mac went for his patented DDT, but Rhodes came off the ropes with a kick to the face. MVP threw Rhodes out of the ring and hit the drive-by kick on McIntyre. That got him the win.

WINNER: MVP, at 13:21. Pretty good three-way. Hopefully, this is going to start the rebuilding of MVP’s credibility.

4 – VICKIE GUERRERO vs. KAITLYN

Forearms by Kaitlyn to Vickie, and Vickie climbed to ringside and screamed as Cole and Striker checked on her. Cole pointed his finger at Kaitlyn and called her a “wench.” Vickie tried to do some warm-ups on the outside, but Kaitlyn jumped off the apron and onto Vickie. She sent Guerrero back into the ring. Stomp to the gut with Guerrero on the mat. Guerrero backed into the corner and looked like she was going to vomit. Instead, Kaitlyn bounced Vickie’s head off the buckle. Legdrop by Kaitlyn after she got Vickie out of the corner and went for a pin. With both on their knees. Vickie slapped Kaitlyn. She tried to slam Kaitlyn, but the rookie Diva fell on her pro and got a two-count. Vickie again went into the corner and Kaitlyn put a few shoulders into Vickie’s mid-section, of which Vickie didn’t sell. Kaitlyn got tripped up by Vickie, who rolled Kaitlyn up for the win (putting her feet on the ropes for extra leverage).

WINNER: Guerrero, at 3:08. About three minutes too long. Nothing after the match, either?

5 – CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Short clothesline by Reks missed and Masters fired back with chops. He tossed Reks over the top rope. Grisham said this was a rematch from last week’s WWE Superstars show. On the apron, Reks whipped Masters into the steel ringpost. Masters fought out of a hold, and hit an inverted atomic drop. More chops, then a shoulder tackle. Whip into the buckle by Masters, then a corner splash. Big spinebuster for only two. He attempted to lock in the Masterlock, but Reks got out. He then landed his burning hammer finisher (as called by Striker) for the win.

WINNER: Reks, at 3:58. Masters got quite a bit of offense here, despite Grisham saying Reks “dominated.” I thought they’d give him a more dominating win.

6 – NEXUS vs. EDGE & KOFI KINGSTON & ALBERTO DEL RIO & THE BIG SHOW & KANE

Ironically, Kingston and McGillicutty started the match off, as the two were pro and rookie on NXT season two. Show tagged in soon after and chopped McGillicutty, then slammed him, all the while threatening to slap the red out of Heath Slater. McGillicutty was kept in the babyface corner, and Edge tagged in to do some damage. McGillicutty finally got a leg up on Edge, enough to tag in Justin Gabriel. He didn’t get much time to shine, as Edge put him down for a two-count. Husky Harris tagged in and pounded away on Edge with some awkward rights and lefts. Either he’s gotten fatter, or the tights are not doing him any favors. Running forearm from Harris for a two-count. Tag in to Slater, and he kept up the onslaught. Slater ended up getting pancaked by Edge, and both men were down. Show was able to make the tag in did some double-teaming with Kingston. Slater escaped before Kingston could do all the damage he had planned. All of a sudden, Del Rio was shown walking up the ramp, holding his head. Not sure what that was about, but they went to break.

Nexus was in control, thanks to Slater, out of break. Del Rio was gone and Kingston went to the top. High cross-body for two by Kofi. Kingston was distracted by Gabriel and McGillicutty, but he still managed to back-drop Slater out of the ring. Kingston flew over the top and onto four of the five Nexus members. Otunga was the exception. He provided another distraction, and Slater knocked Kingston off the apron and into the announce desk. Otunga finally tagged in and put the boots to Kingston in the corner. More tags from the Nexus crew, keeping the legal man fresh against Kingston. After several minutes, Gabriel and Kingston were both down. Kingston went to tag Edge, but Kane reached in and tagged himself in. He met Otunga in the ring, and knocked a few other Nexus guys off the apron. Clothesline off the top onto Otunga, as Kane then set for the chokeslam. He locked it in but the rest of Nexus interfered. Big Show took two of them out of the ring, but Kane then chokeslammed Show. Striker said Kane must’ve thought Show attacked him from behind. Edge tagged himself in and gave the Edge-O-Matic to Otunga. He went for a spear, but ran into a choke from Kane. Edge got out, and speared his partner, then Otunga.

WINNERS: Edge, Show, Kingston, Del Rio and Kane at 18:42.

They replayed a couple big moments at the end of the match. Kane was shown staggering up the ramp to end things.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 08 2010, 02:14 pm
TNA Turning Point PPV Results: 11-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_45110.shtml)

1 -- X Division champion JAY LETHAL vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) -- X Division Title match

The first five minutes featured Lethal controlling the action before Robbie cheated to take advantage. The camera seemed to be more focused on Cookie than the in-ring action at times during this period. Robbie cut off a comeback at 6:00 before Lethal put together a series of moves and showed babyface fire. Lethal clenched his fist and went for a sunset flip for the pin. However, the referee was also more focused on Cookie and randomly started yelling at Cookie while Lethal had a visual three count on the sunset flip. Lethal followed with a suicide dive on the floor as Taz lamented Robbie being in trouble here.

Back in the ring at 10:00, Cookie got on the ring apron to distract Lethal, who threw her hairspray away. Robbie tried to surprise Lethal, but Lethal hit the Lethal Combination center ring. Lethal then went up top, but Cookie grabbed Lethal's leg while ref Hebner took his sweet time to get the hairpsray out of the ring. Robbie then hit a neckbreaker on Lethal and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Robbie E. at 10:42 to capture the X Division Title. Your classic over-booked TNA match with the return of referee incompetence. It sure seemed weird to have Hebner as the ref in the opening match, but it became apparent he was needed for the referee incompetence portion of the match storyline. (*)

2 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TARA

Tara came out first on her bike and waited for "hardcore country" Mickie to come out. Mickie stormed the ring and slapped Tara across the face to jumpstart the match. Mickie was curiously going with the Shawn Michaels style chaps here. Mickie landed an early clothesline and Tara rolled to the outside looking for a break. Tara then caught Mickie in cat-and-mouse to take control of the action. Tara continued to heel on Mickie, who then came back with a top-rope dropkick. Tara ducked Mickie's finisher, though, and stomped her down to the mat.

The action moved up top and both ladies crashed down to the floor below. They didn't make it back into the ring, as the fight went down the walkway and over the guardrail to the stage area. Mickie and Tara traded bombs near the fans and the ref eventually threw out the match. The brawl continued over the guardrail back to ringside, then back to the stage area. Mickie turned her back on Tara momentarily and took a broom shot across the back. Tara turned her back and started to celebrate, leading to Mickie cracking her with a trashcan. Security eventually intervened to settle things down. Well, at least try.

Mickie eventually ran back into the ring and called out to Tara, who sprinted from the stage into the ring to continue the brawl. Hair and clothes started flying as the intense brawl continued until agents finally hit the ring to break things up. Have to make sure the agents get their camera time. Mickie eventually broke free and tackled Tara in the corner. They brawled some more until Tara rolled out of the ring to conclude the segment.

WINNER: No Contest at 8:17. That was really intense and well done selling the feud. That's the type of action that could lead to a headline match on PPV or a well-hyped TV main event. The match itself was physical, crash-and-burn action. It wasn't pretty, but it looked like a fight at times, which you want in a simulated competition. (**)

TNA Turning Point PPV Results: 11-7-10

3 -- TNA tag champs MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. TEAM 3D (Brother Ray & Brother Devon) -- TNA Tag Title match vs. Team 3D's careers

Before the opening bell, ref Brian Hebner gave Team 3D a look at the tag titles to build anticipation for what's to come here. Shelley and Devon started things off with a handshake as Tenay referenced the promotions for which Team 3D have held tag titles. Shelley and Devon had a stand-off before re-circling the ring. Devon used his size to gain momentary control, but Shelley used his quickness to duck rapid-fire clothesline attempts. The Guns suddenly tried their Skull & Bones finisher, but Devon moved and tagged in Ray, who sent the Guns scampering to the outside.

The action reset in the ring with Ray taking right hand blows from Sabin, who then hit a springboard cross-body block for a two count. Ray then smacked Sabin down and tagged in Devon, who avoided a top rope move and re-tagged in Ray. Shelley sold a knee injury, so Ray went to work on the knee and ligament. The action moved to the outside where Ray smacked Sabin down to the padding. He tried a splash against the ringpost, but Sabin moved and Ray ate the post. Ray came up bleeding from the forehead and the Guns went to work on Ray back in the ring.

The Guns showed a lot of intensity as Ray tried to fire back with slaps to the chest. Shelley absorbed the chops before attempting a top rope move, only to walk into a mid-air Ace Crusher. Ray then made a hot tag to Devon as Sabin tagged in as well. Devon landed a flying shoulder tackle before hitting a sidewalk slam for a two count. The Guns then tried double-team offense in the corner, but Devon countered with a front slam throwing Sabin onto Shelley's back. Devon then went up top and landed a flying headbutt, but Shelley broke up a pin attempt. Ray then blind-tagged into the match and 3D hit a double-team hangman's neckbreaker for a two count.

At 13:00, Team 3D set up the "What's Up?" diving headbutt and it connected to Shelley's crotch. Naturally, a table was out next to the crowd's approval. 3D set up a table in the corner, but Sabin did a running flip off the table and onto his feet. Ray then went crashing through the table and the Guns immediately hit a double superkick combo on Devon for a close two count. The Guns followed with their Skull & Bones finisher, but Devon kicked out just in time. Shelley did his cocky smirk, then Devon countered a double-team attempt and the Guns accidentally kicked each other.

Team 3D followed up with the 3D on Sabin for the apparent three count, but Sabin kicked out just before three. 3D and the announcers sold shock. Team 3D didn't know what to do next. At 16:30, Devon tagged in Ray, who wanted a second 3D, but Sabin countered with a DDT on Devon. The Guns then followed with a superkick into the Skull & Bones on Ray. Sabin made a cover and that was good for a three count to give the Guns the win.

Post-match: Ray continued to sell the finish by laying spread eagle on the mat. The Guns eventually took back their title belts and picked up Brother Ray to help him to his feet. All four did a curtain call before Ray fell back down to the mat at Devon's knees to continue selling the finish. Ray and Sabin hugged it out in the ring to conclude the match.

WINNERS: Guns at 17:08 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Excellent, excellent tag match. Great story that was laid out nicely and allowed the Guns to get a star-confirming victory in the sense that they looked tough opposite a bigger, more physical team while scoring a legitimatizing victory for the finish. Can we go ahead and give Tag Team of the Year to the Guns? (****)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 08 2010, 02:15 pm
4 -- TOMMY DREAMER vs. ROB VAN DAM

Dreamer and RVD had a stare down after a brief opening exchange. RVD talked trash, then both men started trading bombs. Dreamer anticipated RVD's next move and blocked with a clothesline. Dreamer continued to dominate on the floor until RVD landed a martial arts kick to the face and crotched Dreamer on the guardrail. RVD followed with a spin kick to the head as Taz talked about "mind control" on the part of Bischoff, etc. getting inside RVD's head.

Dreamer made a comeback and retrieved a ladder from under the ring. Dreamer also retrieved a second chair and tossed it into the ring. The match slowed to a crawl for a bit until Dreamer ducked a baseball slide and smashed the ladder into RVD's face. Back in the ring, the action slowed to a crawl again. RVD then missed with Rolling Thunder and crashed into the ladder. Dreamer inexplicably went up top and landed a highly unathletic frog splash for a two count. Dreamer removed his MMA glove to check on his wrist as RVD came back with a Northern Lights suplex for a two count.

They cut to a close-up of Dreamer selling that he broke his hand as RVD checked on his "EV2 brother." RVD made a cover, but Dreamer kicked out. RVD sold that he didn't know what to do as Dreamer asked for the match to continue. RVD then slammed Dreamer onto a chair and went top for Split-legged Moonsault, but Dreamer moved and RVD ate the chair. RVD came back, then went up top and airballed a Five-Star Frogsplash. Dreamer followed with a one-hand piledriver and rolled RVD over for a pin resulting in a two count.

At 13:30, the match continued. They did some spot in the corner with a ladder and RVD sent Dreamer into the rungs of the ladder as if he were sitting on a swing. RVD followed with a dropkick whipping Dreamer neck-first onto the mat. RVD followed with a Surfboard using the chair into Dreamer's head. RVD didn't make a cover as the announcers begged for this to end. RVD went for the Five-Star again and Dreamer moved again. Dreamer then tried a DVD, but RVD whipped him off into the ladder. The crowd was dead quiet here as they continued to block each other's offense. RVD went up top and hit the Five-Star on the third try for the pin and the win.

Post-match: RVD told Dreamer that he's sorry as he helped him to his feet. They hugged it out as Dreamer did a sad face while selling the injured hand. Tenay said it solved the issue that Bischoff has been fueling his paranoia.

WINNER: RVD at 15:53. This was a match that just would not end, as this went about ten minutes too long. Dreamer, like Mick Foley, just doesn't belong in a nationally televised PPV singles match at this stage of his career and RVD seemed to be going through the motions. (1/4*)

5 -- EV2 vs. FORTUNE -- Winning team selects a member of the other team to be "fired"

Kendrick wrestled in his big white coat before tripping over himself as Doug Williams took his knee out. Richards then knocked Williams to the outside and Roode tried to make a cover on Richards while Hebner was distracted. Trainers eventually came to ringside to check on Kendrick while James Storm randomly hopped off the ring apron to help him out. Breaking kayfabe or swerve? Back in the ring, Fortune took control of the match once the action settled into a standard tag match. Kazarian then mocked Stevie's superkick and Stevie countered with Kaz's old Wave of the Future finisher. Rhino then hot-tagged into the match and blasted Beer Money with offense. Rhino wanted the Gore, but Roode yanked Rhino down and Styles hit a springboard clothesline for a close two count.

Fortune regained control of the action as Raven, wearing a bright red Dr. Seuss t-shirt, interrupted several times to break up the action. Rhino eventually broke free and tagged in Sabu, who landed right hand blows on numerous men. Surprise, a chair was introduced into the match. Sabu went flying off the chair into a springboard dive onto Fortune members ringside. Back in the ring, Styles missed with a springboard 450 splash and Sabu followed with a DDT for a two count. Suddenly, a series of finishers were executed by both teams. Rhino blasted Roode with a Gore that sent Roode back-of-the-neck-first into the bottom rope. Sabu then tried a top rope huracanrana on Styles, but Styles countered with the Styles Clash for the pin and the win. Sabu is gone, according to the announcers.

WINNERS: Fortune at 12:05 to "fire" Sabu. Hopefully this is the beginning of the end of this EV2 season and everyone can move on. TNA has too many solid, under-utilized wrestlers on the roster to continue devoting TV and PPV time to the EV2 group. (*)

Post-match: Fortune celebrated on the entrance ramp as the other EV2 members tried to console Sabu in the ring. Ric Flair joined Fortune on the stage, coughed, and said they should pay homage to Fortune. Flair asked everyone to bow down to Fortune. They all thank God for Fortune. Cough. Flair then told Sabu that he's out of here. He said he hates Sheik, never liked Sheik, and wants Sabu gone. Sabu sold flipping out and stormed Flair, but Rhino held him back. Fortune said the other three of them will be gone eventually. RVD and Dreamer then walked into the ring to talk it out with Sabu as Flair told them to have their ***-kissing session.

Dreamer took the mic as Rhino leaned against the top rope selling disgust. RVD said this sucks, man. He told Sabu he did great here and TNA saying good-bye to Sabu is proof that what RVD wants he doesn't always get. Dreamer did his little speech saying Sabu deserved to be a multi-millionaire based on the punishment he put his body through. The hits keep on coming. He thanked Sabu and they hugged it out.

6 -- THE POPE D'ANGELO DINERO vs. ABYSS -- Lumberjack match

Abyss, the man who has almost killed everyone on the roster and held the babyface president hostage, was positioned as the sympathetic figure here with Pope having the deck stacked in his favor. Pope dropkicked Abyss to the outside early on and the Congregation chased Abyss back into the ring. Abyss then tossed Pope over the top rope and the Congregation helped him back into the ring. Pope then hit a flying clothesline for a two count. A second one knocked Abyss to the outside and the lumberjacks roughed up Abyss before returning him to the ring.

In the ring, Abyss began working on Pope's injured ribs after removing the tape around the mid-section. Abyss tried to hit the Black Hole Slam, but Pope rolled over Abyss's shoulders into a float-over DDT. Both men recovered on the mat, then Pope landed some tired forearm smashes. Abyss then tried the Shock Treatment, teased it, and connected center ring. Abyss needed some extra time to make a cover and only scored a nearfall. Abyss found himself on the outside again and Pope landed a big splash from the top rope. The Congregation then shoved Abyss back into the ring before the Congregation checked on Pope. Pope slowly went up top and landed a headbutt that looked like it hurt both men. Why is anyone still doing a top rope diving headbutt in 2010?

At 11:00, Pope landed multiple elbow strikes to the head followed by slaps and punches. Pope then went to ringside and started slapping hands with the Congregation ringside. They seemed to be waiting for something, then Eric Bischoff showed up on the stage. Swerve time. Bischoff did a money hand signal and the Congregation jumped Pope from behind to no heat. Pro wrestling logic check: what happened if Pope won the match within the previous ten minutes? Anyways, the congregation rolled Pope back into the ring and Abyss hit the Black Hole Slam for the win.

WINNER: Abyss at 13:02. Another slow-moving match where the crowd wasn't buying any nearfalls while waiting for the expected storyline-driven finish. The audience knows you can't have a TNA PPV without a swerve and/or a backstabbing. (*1/2)

Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 08 2010, 02:15 pm
7 -- SAMOA JOE vs. JEFF JARRETT

Taz defended Jarrett "buying in" to Bischoff and Hogan while Tenay called it hypocritical on Jarrett's part. Tenay talked in cryptic terms about Jarrett asking the people in TNA to work together for the good of the company (e.g. TNA management asking talent to take a pay cut) before he turned on the roster. Joe showed off his trademark physicality early on before staring down Jarrett and stalking his prey. Joe landed a kick strike, a head butt, right hands to the chest, and a knee below the chin, but gave Jarrett an opening to land shoulder blocks in the corner. Jarrett tried a slap, but Joe no-sold and ripped flesh off Jarrett's chest. "Holy crap," Tenay said. Taz dryly said, "Just tap out." Joe then got a second wind and cracked Jarrett over and over again with slaps. Jarrett suddenly recovered and applied an anklelock, which the announcers noted as a message to Kurt Angle.

The camera zoomed in on Jarrett's bright red chest as he tried to retrieve a chair on the outside. The ref disallowed this chair use, then Jarrett re-entered the ring and landed a dropkick, but Joe popped up to his feet, no-sold, and smashed Jarrett with a clothesline for a two count. Joe tried a move from the fireman's carry position, but Jarrett countered into the Stroke. Joe kicked out easily, though. Joe then came back with an exploder suplex, which popped Taz. In the corner, Joe wanted a superplex, but Jarrett blocked and slingshot Joe across the top rope. Jarrett then followed with a Stroke from the top rope and Joe kicked out again.

At 8:00, Jarrett went back to the outside and retrieved the chair again. The ref reprimanded him again. Meanwhile, Joe regrouped in the ring and landed an elbow suicide dive taking out Jarrett and the ref. Back in the ring, Joe took Jarrett up top and called for the Musclebuster. TNA security then hit the ring and Joe knocked them around, including a Musclebuster on Shatter. Joe preoccupied himself with the other security allowing Jarrett to hit Joe with a plastic Bossman stick. Jarrett then choked out Joe with the stick as the crowd called for Kurt Angle. To no heat, Jarrett applied a regular rear naked choke. Security threw the ref back into the ring and he dropped Joe's hand three times, giving Jarrett the win.

WINNER: Jarrett via KO at 10:32. As expected for a Jarrett match, more TNA over-booking. It felt like a throwback to five or six years ago with Jarrett's NWA Title defenses on PPV. Early on, Jarrett was great heel foil for Joe, who was able to showcase his physical offense again in a premiere singles match. (**)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. MATT MORGAN -- TNA World Title match

The fans chanted for Morgan, who quickly knocked down Hardy in the opening sequence. Hardy rolled to the floor to recover, then slowly re-entered the ring to lock up again. Hardy landed a boot to the gut and aggressive forearm strikes, but tried to run over Morgan, who just looked down at the mat to no-sell Hardy's attempt. Hardy then went for the left knee and tried to chop down the tree, but Morgan flung Hardy over the top rope with a one-hand chokeslam. Hardy teased re-entering the ring, but spit in Morgan's face. Morgan gave chase and nearly walked into the trap, but avoided an elbow drop and dragged Hardy to the floor. The announcers focused on Morgan needing to keep his poise in a big title match here.

Back in the ring, Morgan slammed Hardy and tried a big leg drop, but Hardy moved and went to work on Morgan's left knee. Hardy went for a unique submission tilting Morgan's big left leg straight up into the air before transitioning into a single-leg Boston Crab. Very nice offense from Hardy. Morgan teased tapping out, but eventually made the bottom rope for a break. Hardy then shoved ref JJ before going back on the attack focusing on the knee. Hardy mocked his own babyface dance before going back to work.

At 8:00, Morgan came back to his feet and ripped off Hardy's t-shirt. Morgan pounded his chest, sold the left knee, and landed a big discus clothesline for a close two count. Morgan slapped his left knee trying to shake off the offensive attack before picking up Hardy, who came back with a jumping DDT for a nearfall. Hardy went to the second rope and flipped off the fans before flying into Morgan's hand for a big chokeslam that resulted in a two count. Morgan then slowly lifted up Hardy, who pulled the ref in tight and mule kicked Morgan. Hardy then hit the Twist of Hate center ring, but Morgan kicked out at two.

At 11:00, Hardy began pounding on Morgan, who suddenly came back with the Carbon Footprint out of nowhere. Morgan had a three count and Hardy's foot was apparently supposed to kick the ref in the head, but he was too far away. So, an awkward moment ensued where Morgan seemed to win the match. Anyways, Morgan slowly brought Hardy back up to his feet and hit a second Twist of Hate, but Morgan kicked out again. Hardy had a word with the ref, then missed with a corner splash. Morgan landed an elbow strike, hobbled on the knee, then took Hardy up top, but Hardy blocked and hit the Whisper in the Wind off the top. Hardy wanted a third Twist of Hate and hit it. This was good for the three count and the win.

Post-match: They went to a replay of the high points from the match, including the awkward non-finish when Morgan had a three count, which seemed to hint at a potential re-match. Afterward, Fortune and Immortals hit the ring with champagne to celebrate with Hardy. Confetti fell from the ceiling as Hardy stood tall in the corner with possession of the title. They showed Bischoff mugging for the camera as Taz said he's as happy as a pig in poop. Flair then chugged an adult beverage as Hardy whoo'ed for the crowd. Immortal and Fortune continued to celebrate in the ring as Tenay signed off six minutes before the top of the hour.

WINNER: Hardy at 13:06 to retain the TNA World Title. Good main event, although the finish never seemed to be in doubt with it being Hardy's first title defense and no pre-PPV chase or quest for Morgan. The non-finish for Morgan didn't look smooth, but it gave Morgan an "out" for a future re-match if they're going that route. Overall, Hardy was solid in his first title defense and Morgan carried himself well as a strong, yet somewhat sympathetic babyface. If TNA gets Morgan and Joe together as a tag team to lead the anti-Immortals babyface faction going forward, that could make for some good TV on Impact. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 10 2010, 03:14 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-8-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_45143.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ALICIA FOX & MARYSE & TAMINA vs. BELLA TWINS & EVE -- Divas Cup

After a few minutes of basic back-and-forth and the announcers continuing to mock soccer, the Bellas pulled the switcheroo to score the pin and the win. Afterward, the babyface Divas bounced around in their soccer outfits to celebrate the win for Man U.

WINNERS: Bellas & Eve in 3:00. Odd to place Maryse in this slot, but they apparently only brought a limited number of Raw Divas on the European Tour, and this match was booked on all of the Raw house shows over the weekend.

2 -- HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH w/Natalya) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO)

HD started things off in control of the match before Kidd missed with a springboard elbow smash. Mathews said people shouldn't look much into HD's current issues and tension. Split personality Cole is now endorsing Kidd a few weeks after mocking him. But, he's still mocking Smith. The Usos controlled the match, then Smith picked up a conversation with Natalya. He eventually returned to the ring apron and took a tag from Kidd to work on one of the Usos. Smith landed a running powerslam and attempted a pin, but the action broke down. On the outside, Kidd was wiped out with a superkick. Smith turned his attention to Kidd, then walked into a kick to the face. Jey then went up top and landed a Superfly Splash for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Usos at 3:35. Obviously, the story continues to be on tension with HD, but the Usos looked solid following their Superstars match that no one watched. The crowd isn't reacting to the Usos right now, but they just need time being relatively fresh acts. (*1/4)

3 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) vs. GOLDUST

DiBiase landed an early slap to add insult to injury. Cole mocked Goldust and cackled wondering how the honeymoon went. Cole used an old Double A line about finding the world's smallest violin to lament Goldust's turn of events. DiBiase continued to dominate while Maryse seemed a bit preoccupied watching ringside. DiBiase slowed the pace while Maryse screamed into the ring. Cole then sarcastically said he can't wait for Lawler to return to commentary.

Meanwhile, Maryse randomly retrieved the Million Dollar Title belt. Aksana then ran down to ringside, slapped Maryse, grabbed the title belt, and took off running. Meanwhile, in the ring, Goldust rolled up DiBiase for the pin and the win. Cole said Goldust (the babyface) "stole one" from DiBiase. Goldust sold confusion over the turn of events as Aksana disappeared to the back. Cole said it's just like a woman to toy with a guy's emotions. More of that misogynistic tone usually reserved for TNA programming.

WINNER: Goldust at 3:26. The match was about fifth on the pecking order of stories to get over here and it wasn't that interesting. Cole's commentary and delusional heel persona just gets more and more grating by the week. It's not interesting, it's not "fresh," it's not entertaining, it's not useful. At some point, WWE has to pull the plug on the character because it's affecting business.

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. DAVID OTUNGA

The bell sounded and Otunga tried to run away, but Cena caught him on the stage and used one of the "Raw in the U.K." props as a weapon. Back in the ring, Cena worked over Otunga and landed a gutwrench suplex. Cena landed a dropkick, which caused Cole to nearly leap out of his suit. Cena then missed with a corner attack and ate the ringpost. A graphic flashed on the screen plugging "Old School Raw" next Monday starting at 8:00 p.m. EST. The crowd then started a dueling chant of "Let's go Cena" and "Cena Sucks." It was interesting they actually cut to a crowd shot showing two people next to each other doing the dueling chant.

Cena made a comeback and did the usual routine, including the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then dropped Otunga with the Attitude Adjustment. Instead of going for the pin, Cena slapped on the STF and Otunga tapped out with both hands. Afterward, Cena did his full celebration to play to the WWE fans and continue protecting the character while part of Nexus.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 4:02. An expected series of events continuing to present Otunga as the weakest link while giving Cena's fans the Cena they want to see. Just by the book here. (*1/2)

5 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. SHEAMUS

Back from break, Santino was still in his suit as Sheamus tried to go after him. Cole said the audience won't want to miss this "train wreck." Santino eventually stripped down to his ring gear and the announcers questioned why Santino had his ring gear underneath his clothes. Cole said all WWE stars wear their ring gear under their clothes. Mathews: "How do you know?" Pause. Santino bailed out of the ring to stall for time before Sheamus gave chase. Santino ran over the guardrail to stall, then the Raw GM buzzed again. Cole read from the podium that Santino has two choices. Get back in the ring and compete or be immediately suspended. "Right now?!" Santino asked, as if he were asking a serious question. Mathews suggested Santino respond with a question on how long the suspension could be.

Santino then tried to pump himself up and warmed up the Cobra, but Sheamus absolutely creamed Santino with a sledgehammer blow. Sheamus stomped down on Santino, who then begged off. He then landed a low blow right in front of the ref for a DQ. Santino sold confusion over what he did, then did his celebration routine. Santino's celebration was cut short, as Sheamus blasted Santino with a Brogue Kick to the face. Sheamus wanted the Irish Curse, but John Morrison hit the ring to interrupt. Cole was indignant over Morrison's interjection. Mathews defended Morrison, who smashed Sheamus with a Flying Chuck to the face that sent Sheamus rolling to the floor. Morrison then dragged Santino away from the ring and helped revive him on the way out of the ring.

WINNER: Sheamus via DQ at 3:00. More seeds planted for to a potential Sheamus vs. Morrison match, which could be really good based on the house show reports from over the weekend. Cole's commentary remains so off. Morrison's babyface character is fragile and he needs to be built up as doing admirable things, not torn down for helping the comedy figure. (n/a)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 10 2010, 03:15 am
6 -- TEAM NEXUS (Wade Barrett & Husky Harris & Michael McGillicutty (Joe Hennig) & WWE tag champions Heath Slater & Justin Gabriel) vs. TEAM ORTON (WWE champion Randy Orton & U.S. champion Daniel Bryan & Mark Henry & R-Truth & The Miz w/Alex Riley)

Immediately back from break, Cena called for the bell to start things off. Miz actually helped Bryan out with a clothesline from behind on Hennig to begin working over Perfect's son. The crowd began chanting as Miz measured Hennig for a charging corner clothesline. Hennig eventually dragged himself to Nexus's corner and tagged out to Slater, who ran into a clothesline from Orton. Enter Truth. Suddenly, the action broke down and all ten men brawled while Cena leaned back in the corner selling frustration. Team Orton eventually cleared Nexus from the ring and David Otunga picked this as a good time to slowly walk down to the ring. Otunga stared toward the ringside area as they cut to break.

Back from break, Otunga was ringside watching things intently as Gabriel and Truth exchanged offense in the ring. Cole used a slow point in the match to talk up Cena and said he "entertains" for the acceptance of the WWE audience. Mark Henry then tagged in to go opposite big Husky Harris. Henry landed a big press slam and Mathews dropped "cruiserweight" into the broadcast saying Henry lifted up Husky as if he were a cruiserweight. Harris came back with a corner football tackle, then tagged in Hennig, who lost control.

Bryan then entered the ring and landed rapid-fire kicks. Bryan showed off his athleticism before landing a release German Suplex followed by a corner kick attack for a close two count. Bryan landed another kick, then slapped on the LeBell Lock, but Harris blind-tagged into the match to break it up and land a big inside-out clothesline. Cole said Mean Gene Okerlund will be on Raw next week handling interviews. Mathews excitedly said he gets vacation. In WWE world, Mathews would actually have a full weekend of publicity duties, perhaps even in another country.

The match continued with Nexus working over Bryan as the babyface in peril. Bryan teased a comeback, but Barrett cut him off. Barrett then tagged in Slater, who lost control of the match. Bryan crawled across the desert and hot-tagged Orton, who came in hot on Barrett, who also tagged in. Orton with a powerslam, then he wanted the spike DDT and waited for Cena to count to four on the five count before dropping Orton. Orton then wanted the RKO, but Barrett came back with a Wasteland tease. Crowd was heated for this exchange that led to Orton hitting a fallaway backbreaker for a two count.

The action broke down again and Henry called out everyone to come get some. Bryan suddenly came off the top with a double missile dropkick that sent bodies flying. Orton and Barrett were left in the ring. Orton hit another backbreaker, then went into RKO mode. Otunga tried to get involved again, but Cena held him off. Miz then suddenly turned on Orton and hit the Skullcrushing Finale with Riley's help behind Cena's back. Cena hollered at Miz and Riley, but had to make a three count for Barrett on Orton for the pin. Cena then chased Miz and Riley to the back while Nexus gloated on the way out of the ring. Orton recovered in the ring while Nexus hoisted Barrett on their shoulders. Cole recapped the questions going into Survivor Series on whether Cena would make the same count for Barrett at the PPV.

WINNERS: Team Nexus at 15:25. Better main event situation than last week trying to escalate the hype for Orton vs. Barrett. There was a really key segment during the match where Orton and Barrett were in the ring together and there was a noticeable "anticipatory" crowd response with the audience buying into the exchange. It seemed to indicate a higher level of interest in the PPV title match than going into this show. Overall, the Survivor Series title match hype came off better than last week's show. The PPV hype is still handicapped by not having that authoritative voice on commentary to sell the story, the match, and the PPV. Miz turning on Orton was a bit lost in the shuffle, though, when it could have been made out to be a bigger deal. That's a potential money match down the road that needs to be protected. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 13 2010, 02:34 am
WWE NXT Results: 11-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_45177.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) vs. A.J. (w/Primo)

Before the match, they recapped Nikki's aggressive side recently coming out. The announcers recapped the switcheroo gimmick coming out on Raw last night, but without the recent animosity seen on NXT. Cole continued to talk and there was an awkward pause as Cole waited for Mathews to say something. Cole surmised Mathews was "being produced" with lines being fed to him. Mathews laughed and said he received a text. They brought up the Old-School Raw on Monday and Cole said he hopes "Vince" returns to commentary on Monday.

In the ring, Nikki dominated the proceedings before dropping A.J. on her head. "You okay, Rookie?!" Nikki barked at A.J. Suddenly, a message came over the PA system that a virus has been updated on the system. Cole said even the PA announcer is bored. Mathews said maybe the Raw GM is trying to tell Cole to go home. Not the match, but actually leaving. On the outside, the Bellas teased the Switcheroo (and possibly executed it), but Primo acted like he caught onto their game. "Why do you need to get involved, you freakin' idiot?" Nikki (or Brie acting like Nikki) shouted at Primo. A.J. then rolled up Bella and scored a three count for the win.

WINNER: A.J. in 6:00. WWE needs to pus Nikki to the moon. She was awesome getting over her personality...when she wasn't trying to wrestle.

2 -- NAOMI (w/Kelly Kelly) vs. AKSANA

Aksana came out alone without her Pro husband, Goldust. Before the opening bell, Goldust's music hit to bring out Goldust with his chest puffed out and a crazed look in his eyes toward Aksana. The match started and Aksana bailed out of the ring. Cole brought up the dancing contest "like 12 weeks ago" and said he's like one of the Pros on "Dancing With The Stars." Cole used a pronoun, which drew a comment from Mathews under his breath. Mathews then spoke as if he's Cole that he goes into the locker room and backs off his negative comments during the show because he's "a character now and he's told what to say." Cole said he's saying what's on his mind before telling Mathews he must think he's the second coming of J.R. after broadcasting one episode of Raw. Mathews and Cole continued to debate who's produced more as Aksana took control of the action.

Naomi made a comeback at 5:00 and landed rolling elbow strikes to the chin for a two count. Aksana came back with a "vintage Goldust" drop-down slap below the chin. Mathews took a dig at Ross, saying Survivor Series can't get here soon enough because they need another announcer seminar. Naomi then scored the pin on Aksana for the win. Cole screamed at Goldust to do his husbandly duty and help Aksana.

WINNER: Naomi in 6:00. A match happened, the announcers ignored it, the announcers amused themselves, and it was over. Week 1, the goal of NXT seemed to be getting over Naomi. By Week 10, the goal of the show is to get no one over and simply write the show for the entertainment of the people writing, producing, and calling the show. Alas, it is officially a parody of TNA Impact.

Immunity Standings:
Kaitlyn: 1
A.J.: 1
Naomi: 0
Aksana: 0
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 13 2010, 02:35 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-11-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45235.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. YOSHI TATSU

Mathews decided to give Yoshi the advantage because Japan is closer to the U.K. than Long Island is, according to his Google search. Upon further review, Tokyo is about 6,000 miles away from the U.K. and New York is about 3,300 miles away. Ryder dominated early on as the announcers suggested both Ryder and Yoshi will be big-time players on the Raw brand in the near future. The announcers began arguing with each other over their broadcasting history as Ryder nailed a superplex and floated over into a pin attempt for a nearfall. Ryder in control going to break.

Back from break, Yoshi was still on the defensive as Ryder cut off Yoshi's comebacks. Ryder then went for a move from the second rope, but Yoshi blocked with a sit-out powerbomb. Mathews plugged the Old School Raw and Cole wanted to know if Vince (McMahon) would be doing commentary. Mathews said he's still in a coma. Well, actually...nevermind. Cole said he doesn't want to wear the powder blue or yellow announcer jackets. Meanwhile, Yoshi kind of botched a back elbow smash on Ryder for a two count. Mathews kind of started to feed to a commercial, but they stayed with the action as Ryder missed with the Rough Ryder. Yoshi then hit the Shining Wizard for the pin and the win. Cole woke himself up to try to sound excited for Yoshi's win.

WINNER: Yoshi in 13:00. The announcers sound so disingenuous, even on Superstars. Yoshi looked a bit rusty at times, but it was overall a decent match. (*1/2)

2 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. PRIMO (w/A.J.)

The bell sounded and Primo started flexing. Jackson shoved him down, then posed for Primo, who sold concern over this situation. Cole said he likes Zeke because he's "always having fun in the ring." Zeke proceeded to toss Primo across the ring, which drew some serious concern from A.J. Cole noted Jackson was the final ECW champion "before that brand went defunct." Primo went the traditional route of going after Jackson's knee to try to cut him down to size. Jackson eventually made it back to his feet, then growled and ran over Primo. He smiled. Then, a dominator. Three count and it's over as Jackson marches through the Raw roster.

WINNER: Jackson in 4:00. A bit long for a squash match, but Primo was entertaining as a lower-card heel with no chance of advancing up the ladder anytime soon. (*)

3 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. KAVAL

Grisham noted Kaval has yet to win a match since becoming a full-time WWE wrestler post-NXT. He also noted it's a re-match from Kaval's first Smackdown match, which gave McIntyre a 1-0 lead in the series. Solid commentary from Grisham and Striker early on talking about wins and losses being what matters in WWE. Kaval and McIntyre went through an early feeling out process before Kaval landed a kick strike to the gut. McIntyre came back with a round of flying fists in the corner before drawing a reprimand from the ref. The ref-Mac exchange gave Kaval an opening to land a high-flying move followed by a leaping splash on the outside that floored McIntyre. Back in the ring, Kaval scored a one count. McIntyre and Kaval then bumped mid-sections mid-ring and sold on the mat as they cut to break.

Kaval and McIntyre went back and forth coming back from break. McIntyre then dropped to the outside and got that crazy look in his eyes before wrapping Kaval's left shoulder around the ringpost. Back in the ring, McIntyre continued to work over Kaval with power offense before landing a short-arm clothesline. McIntyre, in control of the action, slowly raised his arm in the air before delivering a knee drop. Mac missed with a corner attack, which gave Kaval an opening to begin landing signature kick strikes.

Kaval called for his full comeback and landed a leaping enziguiri in the corner for a two count. McIntyre cut him off again, though, and dropped Kaval with a rib-breaker, as Grisham called it, for a two count. Kaval blocked another corner attack before nailing a handspring kick strike to the head for a nearfall. Kaval then went up top, but Mac rolled to the apron. Mac then caught Kaval on the apron and teased the Future Shock DDT onto the ring steps, but Kaval escaped and smashed Mac with a rolling kick to the head using the ring steps. Nice sequence.

Back in the ring, Kaval wanted the Warrior's Way double foot stomp, but McIntyre missed. McIntyre then followed right up with the Future Shock DDT. Mac was slow to make a cover, but he eventually made a cover for the three count and the win.

WINNER: McIntyre in 15:00. Good match. It didn't quite reach that third gear with rapid-fire counters, nearfalls, and exchanges, but McIntyre presented his character very well and Kaval was able to get in some quality offense that showed off his unique moveset. McIntyre has improved dramatically with his character presentation in the ring and setting a good pace calling the match as the heel. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 13 2010, 02:38 am
b]TNA Impact! Results: 11-11-10[/b]

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45232.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JAY LETHAL & TAYLOR WILD vs. ROBBIE E. & COOKIE

Cookie and Robbie got into some sort of argument that led to Cookie refusing to enter the ring. They cut to a break after ring intros. [c] Back from the break they were arguing at ringside. Lethal took control of Robbie in the ring. At 2:00 Robbie tagged in a reluctant Cookie. Cookie tagged right back out to Robbie, forcing Wilde to tag Lethal back in. Lethal surprised Robbie with a flying crossbody block. Cookie broke up Lethal's pin attempt on Robbie. When Lethal turned toward her, Robbie jumped him from behind. Cookie held Lethal by his arms as Robbie charged. Lethal moved and Robbie stopped short. Lethal then surprised Robbie with a Lethal Combination. Cookie interfered again, but Lethal caught her kick attempt. He held her and called in Taylor. Cookie yanked her foot out of her boot so she could slide out of the ring. Robbie then used the boot to KO Lethal for the win.

WINNERS: Robbie & Cookie in 7:00.

STAR RATING: 3/4* -- Lots of shenanigans, not a lot of wrestling. It told the story it wanted to tell just fine, though.

2 -- SAMOA JOE vs. GUNNER & MURPHY

Joe won quickly and decisively with a Muscle Buster on Murphy.

WINNER: Joe in 1:00.

KELLER'S REAX: Four minutes into the second hour this second match began, meaning through 64 minutes, there was only seven minutes of wrestling. The last time TNA weighed a show so heavily toward talk, it backfired (right after Bound for Glory). Will history again repeat itself.

3 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. KAZ

Tenay said Rhino's TNA contract expired at midnight on Sunday and the new regime of Bischoff & Hogan did not renew his deal. They also acknowledged Sabu lost and has to leave TNA. Taz said EV2 is rapidly crumbling. Tenay said a win by Kaz over RVD could be a career-changer. Tenay said RVD finally realizes his true enemy is Jeff Hardy, so now he can focus on getting the belt he never lost in the first place back around his waist. As RVD rallied against Kaz, the ref got knocked down. Flair walked out with a chair. Rhino charged to the ring and knocked the chair out of Flair's hands. He entered the ring, turned toward Kaz, but then hit RVD with a Gore. The groggy ref made a three count.

WINNER: Kaz in 3:00.

-Rhino picked up the chair and stood behind RVD. Tommy Dreamer came out and got in Rhino's face, demanding an explanation for his actions. Rhino turned and began to leave the ring. Dreamer bent over to check on RVD. Rhino grabbed the chair and hit Dreamer across the back. Tenay wondered what is behind his actions.

4 -- A.J. STYLES vs. STEVIE RICHARDS -- TV Title Match

Tenay talked about the rich history of the World TV Title. He said the "masses" can associate with it because they can see it defended on TV. Taz said it has been prestigious title over the years. Stevie kept pace with Styles. Taz said he might be the only wrestler in TNA who can keep pace with him cardio-wise. At 4:00 Stevie caught Styles with a Steviekick as Styles spring-boarded toward him. Styles avoided a powerbomb and then slammed Stevie to the mat and gave him a modified or botched-looking Styles Clash. Richards landed powerbomb style on the back of his head and neck rather than face-down, and Taz and Tenay gasped like they had just seen Stevie's neck snap in half. Taz noted he has a surgically repaired neck.

WINNER: Styles in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- Good action packed into five minutes.

5 -- BEER MONEY & DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. MATT MORGAN

Morgan put up a good fight early, but the numbers overwhelmed him. It settled into Douglas concentrating on Morgan's left knee and leg. Storm applied a figure-four at 4:00. Tenay announced that Bischoff is "pissed about something" and headed to the broadcast table. Bischoff showed up and said given the lack of respect he was shown has him running out of patience. Bischoff said Morgan better win tonight or he'll never get another shot at Hardy. Taz sided with Bischoff and wondered what is going on. Bischoff threw a fit and pounded the desk and insisted that he's a pro... "a professional pro," in fact. Bischoff told Tenay he didn't want to hear a word from him. Bischoff said he never thought Morgan had any talent. Morgan came back with a clothesline. Bischoff said Roode craps more talent in any given day than Morgan will have in his entire career. Morgan caught a charging Roode with a Carbon Footprint, then splashed Douglas in the corner. Tenay asked if Morgan wins will he really get a title shot. Bischoff insisted he's a fair man and he will get that title shot. Taz gave Tenay a hard time for assuming the worst about Bischoff and not treating him decently. Beer Money tried to suplex Morgan, but Morgan countered and suplexed both of Beer Money. As Flair jumped onto the ring apron, they arbitrarily signed off Impact, gave a brief closing credit, and then began Reaction.

Morgan knocked Flair off the ring apron, then took on Douglas one-on-one since Beer Money retreated up to the stage. Morgan finished Douglas with a Carbon Footprint for the win. Bischoff said, "Son of a *****! Fire that referee"

WINNER: Morgan in 10:00.

STAR RATING: *
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 13 2010, 01:59 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-12-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45250.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Striker plugged Wrestlemania’s on-sale date tomorrow, and told Grisham that at the rate he’s going, he’ll have to buy a ticket. Kingston nailed Del Rio with a few uppercuts, then hit a dropkick and went for a pin. Grisham again talked about soccer (he has announced soccer of Fox Sports Net in the past) and Cole slammed him again for it. Del Rio turned the tide and slammed Kingston. Inside cradle for two. Irish whip into the corner, followed by a shoulder knock-down. Kingston used his athletic ability to dodge Del Rio and land a flying back elbow. Del Rio went outside the ring and Kingston landed a suicide dive onto his opponent. Back in the ring, a cover got two. Kingston went to the apron, where Del Rio gave him an enziguiri. Kingston collapsed to the floor on the outside, at which point, the show went to break.

Del Rio was in control out of break, and he pulled Kofi’s hair to aid him in landing a few right hands. Del Rio pulled Kingston out of the corner by his boots as Kofi was on his back and held onto the bottom rope. Got a lot of air on it, too. Dueling chants for Kingston and Del Rio, which the announcers did not acknowledge. Kofi blocked a few punches and fired back. Another standing dropkick found the mark. He missed a splash in the corner by got his feet up as Del Rio charged in. High cross-body for a two-count by Kofi. Jumping clothesline (or Superman punch), followed by the Boom Drop. He lined Del Rio up for the Trouble in Paradise. Del Rio got out of the way, however, and the two fought on the apron. Del Rio pulled Kofi’s arm against the ring post, then kicked it. Back in, Del Rio locked in the Cross Arm-Breaker for the win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 11:29. Okay match, but nothing spectacular.

After the match, Rey Mysterio came out to his music. He ran to the ring and slid under Del Rio’s legs. He kicked Del Rio in the head and landed the 619. That sent Del Rio reeling.

2 – NATALYA vs. LAYLA

Big standing suplex from Natalya for a near-fall. Layla came back and dropkicked Natalya in the stomach, leaving her on the apron. No Michelle McCool, by the way. Kick to the head by Layla while Natalya was on the apron. Back in the ring, she got a two-count. Layla applied a head-scissors, but Natalya got to her feet while still in it. She tried to back Layla into the corner, but kinda missed. Then she tried a back-breaker and only barely hit that. Striker dropped the name of Robbie Brookside, who has done jobs on WWE TV in the past. Natalya used her power to keep Layla at bay, then applied the Sharpshooter for the win.

WINNER: Natalya, at 3:28. Ugly in spots, but at least we see some unique moves from Natalya thanks to her power.

3 – EDGE vs. DAVID OTUNGA – LUMBERJACK MATCH

Lumberjacks included Nexus, Rey Mysterio, Kofi Kingston, Dolph Ziggler, Chavo Guerrero, Jack Swagger, Drew McIntyre, Fit Finlay(!), Goldust, Tyler Reks, Primo, Alberto Del Rio, Chris Masters, Cody Rhodes, MVP, Kaval. Otunga was the first to be sent to ringside, but nothing physical happened. Nexus was backed into the aisle by the rest of the Smackdown locker room when they came out. They went to break about a minute in, without much action.

Edge thre Otunga to the outside right after break, where Otunga was stomped by the likes of Reks, Finlay and Goldust. He was shoved back in, but Edge only got two. Edge was propelled to the outside, but landed on his feet. The lumberjacks showed respect at first, but Del Rio pulled him off the apron. MVP got in Del Rio’s face about it. Otunga put Edge down with an elbow after the Canadian tried to bounce off the ropes. Kick to the ribs by Otunga. Suplex by Otunga for another two-count. They’re keeping things simple with him, and with good reason. Edge suplexed out of a rest-hold, but the crowd wasn’t really getting behind Edge as much as one would expect. Del Rio and MVP were still hashing things out at ringside. Edge-O-Matic for two. Corner charge missed by Otunga, and he was rolled up for two. He walked into a flapjack, but Edge dropkicked Del Rio through the ropes instead of capitalizing. The entire Smackdown roster then began to brawl outside the ring and Edge gave Otunga a DDT. Edge set up for a spear, but Michael McGillicutty ran in and was speared. Kane then came in out of nowhere and gave Edge a chokeslam. The official was distracted by the brawl and missed it, so Otunga recovered and got the pinfall victory. Grisham hearkened back to Nexus helping Kane beat Taker in the Buried Alive match.

WINNER: Otunga, at 9:50. Pretty basic, with enough bells and whistles on the outside to make it interesting. Kane helping Nexus adds another layer to things, too.

4 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. MVP – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

No Vickie or Kaitlyn with Ziggler. Couple of quick covers by MVP, including a series of roll-ups, for two-counts. MVP got Ziggler on his shoulders, then just dropped him. Running boot by MVP and Ziggler was reeling as they went to break over a minute in.

Big elbowdrop for a two-count from Ziggler, who had regained control during the break. Ziggler went for a few quick covers himself, but couldn’t get it done. He went to undo the turnbuckle pad, but the ref saw it and put it back. As he was doing that, MVP rolled Ziggler up and got more than a three count, but the ref was still distracted reapplying the turnbuckle pad. Arm-bar by Ziggler, but MVP got out. Ziggler missed a splash and MVP fired back with clotheslines. Thrust to the throat, then a face-buster for two. He lined up for the Ballin’ elbowdrop and connected. Ziggler got his foot on the rope to break up the pin. Dueling “Let’s go Ziggler/MVP” chants. MVP got another near-fall countering Ziggler’s move off the top rope. MVP had to be restrained, as his frustration was mounting. Ziggler responded with a Zig Zag and got the pin, despite MVP getting his foot on the rope.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 8:36. They kept MVP strong, giving him a visual pin and having him lose by questionable means.

5 – KANE vs. THE BIG SHOW

No Bearer with Kane. The two traded body shots, and Show even got off his feet on a shoulder tackle to take Kane down. Headbutt put him down again, and another shot to the stomach. More shots to the ribs by Show in the corner. Kane went low for a dropkick to the knee that hobbled Show. Show tried to keep some separation, but struggled to do so. Kane went to the second rope to hammer Show, and did so twice. Show elbowed Kane down then hit the Vader Bomb for a two-count. Kane foolishly tried to chokeslam Show, but Show came back with a choke of his own. Both men fought out and Kane went to the knee again. Kane clothesline Show over the top, and both men spilled to the floor. Bearer was shown tied up backstage, watching on a monitor.

Show worked the left arm of Kane to block his offense. Big slap to the chest in the corner, as the crowd implored him do it one more time. He perhaps should have listened, as Kane landed a DDT for two. Kane stomped Show and kicked him in the head for two. Show worked out of a resthold and collided with Kane. Show got the better of that exchange, as Kane went through the middle rope and to the arena floor. He grabbed Show’s arm and pulled it over the top rope. Kane perched himself on the top rope, but Show met him up there. Kane pushed Show off the second rope and came off the top with a clothesline for a two-count. Another rear chin-lock by Kane. Show suplexed out and struggled to regain his bearings. Both got to their feet at about the same time and splashed Kane in the corner. He missed a second one, as Kane got his foot up. Second-rope clothesline by Kane and he again signaled for a chokeslam. Edge came over the PA and had Bearer tied up on the stage. Kane began to freak out as Edge continued to taunt Kane. He asked Kane if he wanted him to take care of his daddy issues. Edge said if Kane takes another step, he’ll push Bearer in the wheelchair off the stage. He faked doing it, which the crowd bought. As Kane pleaded with Edge from the ring, Show chokeslammed him and picked up the non-title win.

WINNER: Show, at 14:28. For someone who doesn’t care much for either guy’s in-ring work, I thought this match was pretty good.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:43 pm
WWE RAW Results: 11-15-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_45308.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. MARK HENRY -- non-title match

Cole said Ziggler reminds him of "Ravishing" Rick Rude from the past. Henry dominated early on, then Ziggler rolled to the outside. Henry made advances toward Guerrero, prompting a Mae Young reference from the announcers. Back in the ring, Ziggler cut off Henry at the knees and went to work on him. Henry made a comeback and landed a powerslam, but Ziggler put his foot on the bottom rope to break a three count.

Henry measured Ziggler for a big splash, but Ziggler rolled out of the way in time. Ziggler then followed with a finisher attempt, but Henry kicked out in time. Ziggler followed with the Zig-Zag, but Henry kicked out again. Ziggler, frustrated, slapped on a sleeper hold. Is this where Roddy Piper shows up? Henry faded out in Ziggler's grasp and the referee called for the bell to give Ziggler the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 4:27. Nice showcase for Ziggler, although they're really watering down the brand split with an unadvertised appearance by a second tier champion on Raw. As if the watering-down of the brand split is news. (*1/4)

2 -- WWE tag champions NEXUS (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL) vs. HART DYNASTY (TYSON KIDD & D.H. SMITH) -- non-title match

Smith worked on Gabriel early on, then Slater broke up a pin attempt. Slater tagged in, so Smith dropped him with a powerslam for a two count. Smith followed with a big clothesline in the corner, but Gabriel provided a distraction to give Slater an opening to take control. The crowd picked up a brief "Nexus sucks" chant as Cole noted Kidd has yet to enter the match. Smith eventually walked over to the corner for a tag, but Kidd moved his hand and popped Smith with an enziguri kick. Kidd then smiled and hopped off the ring apron as Gabriel went up top. Gabriel hit the 450 Splash on Smith for the pin and the win. After a replay of Kidd turning on Smith, they went to back and forth shots of Kidd smirking and Smith selling disgust in the ring to close the segment.

WINNERS: Nexus at 3:07. This is where not having a straight-forward announcer really, really hurt. Kidd turning on Smith should have been treated like a big deal, but the announcers completely undersold it in that make-or-break moment. Another example of Cole's delusional character on Raw being a mistake. (*)

3 -- BROOKYLN BRAWLER (w/Harvey Whippleman) vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Cole said he never thought he would see Brawler in a match again in 2011. It's not next year yet. Jackson dominated, then hit the Pearl River Plunging dominator for the pin and the win. Cole with another inside reference that Brooklyn Brawler has struck out. Cole got serious and said Jackson has been on a tear since returning to Raw.

WINNER: Jackson at 0:50. Effective squash continuing to build up Jackson. It's best to "limit his touches" in the ring until they're ready to push him in a more important program. (n/a)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. ALEX RILEY (w/The Miz)

Cole corrected himself from the Jackson match that he misspoke about the current year they're in, noting it's 2010, not 2011. Cole said he wants to be like Vin Scully calling this show by himself in the future. Miz distracted the referee early on, giving Riley an opening to tackle and attack Cena. Cena made a comeback at 3:00 while Lawler noted Cena's jovial mode despite being in a position to be fired at Survivor Series. Cena dropped the Shuffle on Riley, who rolled to his feet and walked into the Attitude Adjustment. Cena dropped Riley, then slapped on the STF and stared right in Miz's face with the hold locked in. Riley tapped and Cena smiled while Cole said Cena was able to "be himself" for perhaps the final time on Raw.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 3:44. Another "feel good" match for WWE's PG audience. The post-match took precedent over the in-ring here...

Post-match: Orton stormed the ring and cleared Miz, then Husky and Hennig stormed the ring and tried to attack Orton, who fought them off. Orton then stared down Cena before ripping off his t-shirt. Orton and Cena came face-to-face as the crowd roared in anticipation of something going down. Cena then shrugged and landed a right hand blow. Orton came back with rights before referees stormed the ring and tried to separate the two men. Agents even spilled into the ring for an old-school pullapart brawl. The crowd chanted, "Let them fight."

5 -- USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina and Snuka) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV (w/Sheik and Volkoff) -- #1 contender match to WWE Tag Titles

The match was joined in progress as Cole referenced the Usos being the sons of Rikishi. Kozlov manhandled one of the Usos as Snuka and Tamina tried to shout encouragement. Kozlov then tagged in Santino, whose head was used a battering ram. Cole noted Jake Roberts had his snake and Santino has his cobra. Cole talked about Snuka being one of the "original high-flyers" as the only sound heard in the arena was Santino screaming at Kozlov for a tag. The Usos then bumped Santino off the ring apron, allowing the Usos to continue working on Kozlov. Kozlov eventually broke free and tagged in Santino, who landed left hand jabs. He then went until Ultimate Warrior mode raising the roof and landing a big splash for a two count. Santino then called for the Cobra and delivered the strike on Jey for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 5:31. And now Nexus will be opposed by...Santino and Kozlov. They're trying to legitimize Santino as more than just a comedy act, but that would require undoing three years worth of Raw Comedy. (*)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:43 pm
Continued from previous post...

6 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Otunga dominated things early on as the crowd chanted for Kofi. Otunga landed an emphatic elbow smash for a two count before applying a submission hold driving Kofi into the mat. Kofi made a comeback and landed successive corner strikes before landing a big flying dropkick. This was followed by a double knock down as they collided mid-ring. Suddenly, George "The Animal" Steele showed up ringside with his green tongue on display. Ol' George just walked right into the ring and approached the turnbuckle pad. The ref reprimanded him from attempting to eat the turnbuckle. So, he walked to the other turnbuckle and ripped it apart. Steele chucked the turnbuckle stuffing at the ref while Otunga wondered what was going on. Kingston was still KO'ed, but then woke up and rammed Otunga head-first into the exposed steel. Kingston followed with the Trouble in Paradise for the pin and the win. They replayed Steele's involvement and Cole said he feels like he's back at MSG.

WINNER: Kingston at 4:50. Fine match as Otunga continues to progress from Level 1. The Steele run-in was a bit random and a distraction, but what you would expect to give Otunga more to complain about to Barrett. (*1/4)

7 -- R-TRUTH (w/Eve) vs. WADE BARRETT

Truth took control early on and clotheslined Barrett over the top rope to the floor. Truth then nailed a flip dive onto Barrett, sending Barrett crashing to the floor beyond the bright blue ringside padding. Back in the ring, Barrett caught Truth off the ropes with a modified Black Hole Slam for a two count. Cole said he's uncomfortable in his bright jacket like the one Vince McMahon used to wear. He wondered aloud if Lawler has been visiting McMahon in the hospital. He said he couldn't even imagine working with McMahon on the air.

Meanwhile, Barrett landed a big elbow drop from the second rope followed by a sidewalk slam. Cole noted no presence of Nexus ringside, like at Survivor Series where Nexus is banned from ringside. They cut to a split screen of Cena and Orton watching the match from separate locations on monitors backstage. Truth teased a comeback on Barrett, then made a full comeback with rapid-fire clotheslines. He tried a victory roll, but Barrett kicked out in time. Truth then landed a facebuster suplex for another nearfall. Truth to follow with the Lie Detector, but Barrett ducked and smashed Truth with a boot to the face.

At the top of the hour, Barrett scooped up Truth and dropped him with the Wasteland slam. The announcers noted it appeared Barrett's nose was injured. Barrett made the pin for the win as the camera zoomed in on Barrett's face, where his nose looked quite damaged. After a replay of the match highlights, Barrett managed a smile as the announcers noted his quest for the WWE Title at Survivor Series.

WINNER: Barrett at 5:20. Good, tough win for Barrett ahead of Survivor Series. WWE still has to overcome the dilemma that the issue between Barrett and Orton for Survivor Series is #3 in importance behind Cena-Barrett and Cena-Orton. They have an hour to focus on Cena's issues being most important to see how they're resolved at the PPV. (*1/2)

8 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SGT. SLAUGHTER

Del Rio kicked Sarge in the gut before landing a knee to the gut. Sarge then teased the Cobra Clutch, but Del Rio reached the ropes for a break. Del Rio got that look in his eyes and landed a big clothesline for a two count. Del Rio then slapped on a snug reverse chinlock as the crowd rallied behind Slaughter. Del Rio smashed Sarge with a kick to the knee, but Sarge ducked a right and slapped on the Cobra Clutch again. Del Rio broke free, though, and landed a big step-up enziguiri kick in the corner for the three count.

Post-match: Del Rio slapped on the cross armbreaker as Cole noted he's injured Christian and Rey Mysterio with the hold. MVP suddenly stormed the ring and Del Rio bailed out of the ring. MVP told Del Rio to get back in the ring and fight him. Del Rio just laughed at this request before winking at him. The crowd was hot with an "MVP" chant.

WINNER: Del Rio at 1:52. Del Rio's greatness cannot be over-stated. It was good to see Sarge work a competitive match after his health problems earlier this year. A nice feud is brewing between Del Rio and MVP. (*)

9 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title match

Cole continued to roll his eyes as Lawler and Ross had their own conversation. Ross said Bryan was "trying to negotiate" the arm of Jack Swagger with submissions. They cut back to Cole trying to get in Ross's face to tell him he's now the voice of WWE. Ross called Swagger scoring a nearfall before listing Swagger's accolades. Cole then did his anti-Bryan spiel as Ross no-sold and called Bryan landing a big dropkick for a two count. Bryan scored with successive kick strikes as they showed Cole continuing to roll his eyes. Swagger landed a boot to the head clearing Bryan to the head as Cole thanked his lucky stars they were going to commercial. He said hopefully the match will be over and Ross will be on his way back to Oklahoma when they're back.

Back from break, Ross reintroduced the show while Cole had his head down on his desk selling a slumber. Swagger scored a nearfall in the ring as Ross had a conversation with Lawler talking up Bryan. Swagger then rolled Bryan to the outside in front of the announce table. Swagger posed in front of the table while Cole sold boredom. Cole also noted his voice is in the WWE open now. Back in the ring, Bryan landed a boot to the jaw while Cole mocked Ross's catchphrases. Bryan then smashed Swagger with a baseball slide kick through the ropes followed by a running knee smash off the ring apron. Cole said they're only missing The Genius tonight.

Back in the ring, Bryan went up top and landed a big missile dropkick for a two count. Cole wanted the match ended and cursed his bad luck when Swagger kicked out. Bryan then landed kick strikes to the chest, but Swagger came back with an Anklelock attempt, only to have Bryan escape and airballed a big flying kick in the corner. Swagger followed with a running Vader Bomb, but Bryan kicked out. Cole begged for the match to end before asking Ross if he has an OU game to be at. Ross plugged jrsbarbq.com while Swagger landed another running Vader Bomb. Swagger wanted the gut wrench powerbomb, but Bryan blocked. He tried the LeBell Lock, but Swagger escaped and landed a backbreaker. He wanted the gutwrench again, but Bryan slipped out and nailed a big enziguiri kick. Bryan scored a pinfall for the win.

WINNER: Bryan at 10:45. What's that Hulk Hogan line about breathing fresh air again? It was great to hear Ross back on the air trying to sell the product with a straight face vs. Cole's delusional heelish presentation. Bryan vs. Swagger was good, but it was difficult to invest in the match as a viewer trying to ignore the ringside banter from Cole. Apparently WWE's only money match right now is Ross vs. Cole. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:45 pm
WWE NXT Results: 11-16-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_45341.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- NAOMI (w/Kelly Kelly) vs. KAITLYN (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Mathews took some time to question Cole on why he intentionally tries to buck the trend by endorsing what heels like Lay-Cool do. Cole no-sold before angrily asking Mathews if he's going to be the "typical babyface announcer" and start telling him how to call the show. Mathews said Cole should have listened to Jim Ross on Raw. Kaitlyn worked over Naomi early on while Vickie uttered, "Do something." Cole said he wants to see Naomi go home. Kaitlyn made a cover for a two count as the crowd rallied behind Naomi. Kaitlyn then knocked Naomi to the floor, but Naomi re-entered and scored with a cross body block for a two count.

Vickie nearly blew a gasket screaming at Kaitlyn to impress her. "This is ridiculous!" Vickie shouted. Naomi then hit a big kick to the face and scored a pinfall on Kaitlyn. Cole said she scored a "big, big, big, big, big, big" win. Vickie blew another gasket and screamed at Kaitlyn that she's a disgrace and a waste of her time. Kaitlyn stomped off trying to get away from Vickie, who followed her up the ramp to the back.

WINNER: Naomi in 3:00. To use a Coleism, Vickie Guerrero is the Frank Martin of NXT. Decent action to advance the Vickie-Kaitlyn feud for Smackdown.

2 -- A.J. (w/Primo) vs. AKSANA

Cole said he wants to get to the bottom of A.J. and Primo's relationship since they seem to know each other so well. A.J. dominated this from the start as Cole surmised A.J. is "weird." Aksana then slipped A.J. to the outside and sat down on the bottom rope to welcome A.J. back into the ring. A.J. took the bait and Aksana dropped her on the ring apron. Cole suddenly got a phone call. Mathews noted he did this bit a few weeks ago. The crowd was hot with an "A.J." line as Cole said he received a phone call from Joey Styles. Cole tried to play the conversation over the air as Mathews tried to call the action in the ring. Cole said he would call Mr. McMahon if he weren't in a coma right now. A.J. suddenly slapped on a tarantula-like submission mid-ring and Aksana was forced to tap out, giving A.J. the win.

WINNER: A.J. via submission in 4:00. Fine match-up for its allotted time. A.J. got over her offense and showed a bit of a future in the ring boosting the women's division while Aksana got over her innocently heelish personality.

Immunity Standings:
A.J.: 2
Kaitlyn: 1
Naomi: 1
Aksana: 0

Ringside: Striker was with the four remaining Rookies and noted A.J. can breathe easy right now. Cue up the drumroll. And the eliminated Rookie is...Aksana. Aksana pretended to faint as Goldust just stared straight ahead. Aksana grabbed the mic from the floor and said it's a mistake. "Somebody make mistake," she said. Aksana said she will come back. Right now, she will go to Vince McMahon's office and write a letter. And something about emo?

She blew kisses to the crowd and walked up the ramp where Goldust met her. Goldust has one more thing to say to her. Goldust pulled out a piece of paper and said he wants a divorce. She screamed and stormed off while Cole sarcastically said he didn't see that coming. So, it's Naomi, A.J., and Kaitlyn remaining for next week's elimination. Mathews plugged the voting on WWE's website tomorrow before Cole said he's still going to vote for Aksana. Mercifully, fade to black.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:46 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 11-18-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45388.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CHAVO GUERERO

JTG refused to remove his sunglasses per Chavo's request, so JTG put the shades on Charles Robinson. Off they went with JTG working up the crowd before they locked up and JTG landed a knockdown clothesline. JTG cockily knocked Chavo to the outside, then took a dropkick to the knees from Chavo back in the ring. Striker said the "cutesy stuff" from JTG went out the window. JTG then came back with left hand jabs as Grisham continued to make up stuff to say. JTG with a back drop, insert Striker cliche, then JTG with the Mug Shot for a two count. Chavo came back with a rolling kick strike to the top of the head before doing the Eddie Shuffle. Chavo wanted Tres Amigos, but JTG blocked numero dos. Chavo shooed him away, then went up top and pointed to the ceiling, but JTG cut him off. Chavo responded by dropping JTG throat-first across the top rope. Chavo went back up top for the Frog Splash and connected. Chavo with the pin and the win.

WINNER: Chavo in 5:00. Fine showcase match for Chavo. JTG's character is so undefined at this point that the audience just doesn't have a reason to care. (*1/4)

2 -- CURT HAWKINS vs. TRENT BARRETA

The announcers picked up a conversation on Kane vs. Edge as Grisham suggested Hawkins was trained by Shawn Michaels. Prof. Striker cut him off and said that's not true. The action briefly moved to the outside before Hawkins took out Barreta with a leg sweep and went to work on him. Barreta made a comeback and hit a springboard dropkick to the back of the head for a nearfall. Grisham noted Barreta's lack of singles opportunities, but he's done well in "doubles." Grisham laughed at himself and said it's not tennis. Barrett snapped off a huracanrana, then followed with a running DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Barreta in 5:00. Fine singles match focusing on Barreta trying to give him an individual personality. Perhaps Hawkins needs to try a fifth look. (*1/4)

In-ring: C.M. Punk came out for commentary on the Raw portion of the show with his own ring entrance. They had the old Superstars black backdrop on the ring entrance and the old WWF logo from the Old School Raw set from Monday's TV taping. Scott Stanford was already ringside and welcomed Punk to the show. Punk asked "Steve" how he's doing. Primo then walked out with A.J. for an Old School match against Yoshi.

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. PRIMO (w/A.J.)

Punk comically made three segues in three straight sentences while asking "Jeff" what his qualifications are to be a commentator. Punk then complained about the guardrails and being at the Spanish announce table. In the ring, Yoshi smashed Primo with a leg whip and Punk sold excitement over the move. "That was Old School. Speaking of Old School..." Yoshi with a roundhouse kick for a two count. The action moved to the floor where Punk stood up to warn Primo that it's an Old School table. A.J. encouraged Primo to get up while Punk sent it to commercial.

Back from break, Punk recapped a "stiff lariat" from Yoshi on Primo during the break. Yoshi fired off a round of chops to the chest, but Primo cut him off and landed a flying splash across the back of the neck. Primo slid out of the ring and high-fived Punk, then re-entered the ring and attempted a superplex, but Yoshi headbutted Primo down to the mat. Yoshi climbed up top looking for a roundhouse kick and Primo moved his hand in the way to absorb the blow. Punk called the three count, immediately switching allegiance to Yoshi, who scored the three count for the win.

WINNER: Primo in 9:00. Punk's heel color commentary was a breath of fresh air acting like a traditional heel commentator by comically switching allegiance throughout the match. In the ring, Yoshi was solid continuing to get his "touches" on Superstars. If Punk were to have a consistent role as color commentator, his heel persona would actually be productive since he wouldn't be the lead play-by-play announcer. (*1/2)

4 -- MELINA & GAIL KIM vs. ALICIA FOX & MARYSE

Punk and Stanford remained on commentary for the main event as the remaining Divas completed their ring entrances in front of the Old School Superstars set. There's a permanent change that could be made. It's just a classic look that never really goes out of style. The heels isolated Gail Kim early on, which meant Gail actually received some in-ring time in this tag match. Punk sold mock concern before Gail eventually tagged out to Melina, who cleaned house. Maryse thought she outsmarted Melina with a numbers game, but Melina avoided a boot to the head and small packaged Maryse for the pin and the win. Cue up the babyface Divas celebrating the match victory to conclude the show.

WINNERS: Gail & Melina in 5:00. Fine, basic formula tag match. Punk was again strong on commentary in an audition type setting. Again, the classic Superstars backdrop and ring entrance look could be retained permanently to actually enhance the show and allow Superstars to stand out from WWE's other weekly TV shows. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:50 pm
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45386.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) JAY LETHAL, THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS, & VELVET SKY vs. GENERATION ME, ROBBIE E., & COOKIE

I totally want to watch three quarters of this match. Taz and Tenay mention that Sky and Sabin have been dating for a few months, which has been hinted at a few times. Lethal calls for Robbie E., but gets Max Buck instead. He hits a couple quick Arm Drags, then tags in Shelley. Shelley connects with a double-sledge off the top. Max Buck puts on the breaks after a whip, but does so in the wrong corner; the faces tee off for a few seconds. Shelley sets him up in a Tree of Woe, then tags in Sabin, who hits a Hesitation Dropkick as Sky stands on Buck's crotch. A cover is broken up at two. Shelley tags back in. He sets up for a Superkick, but Jeremy Buck yanks him out of the ring. Robbie E grabs onto him as Max connects with a dropkick through the ropes. Robbie rolls Lethal back to Max for a cover, but it only gets one. Cookie tags in and stomps on Shelley's back, but Shelley sits up. Robbie E quickly tags in, but just does a short Front Chancery before tagging in Jeremy. Jeremy just does a choke and makes the tag right back out. Shelley tries to fight out, but Jeremy nails a Gut Buster and Max hits a Swinging Neck Breaker as he (Shelley) is held prone. Sabin breaks up the cover at two. Jeremy whips Max into Shelley, but Shelley Back Body Drops him over the top rope. Shelley floors Jeremy with a Jaw Breaker, and Robbie tags in. Robbie grabs Shelley's leg and starts to taunt him, till Shelley connects with the Ensuguri. Jeremy tags in and tries to hold Shelley, but Lethal gets the hot tag. He hits clotheslines to everyone, then a Handspring Elbow to both members of Generation Me. Cookie attacks from behind, but before he can retaliate Lethal gets distracted by Jeremy Buck and hits the Lethal Combo. He tags in Sabin, who comes in with a Springboard Flying Forearm. Robbie breaks up the cover at two, and everything breaks down. Sabin hits an Inverted Atomic Drop, then invites Sky to hit a multi-rotation Twisting Head Scissors. Generation Me are stacked up in the corner, so the Guns take turns hitting running clotheslines, then their version of Poetry in Motion. They get Jeremy Buck with Skull & Bones, but the ref's busy getting Shelley out of the ring (I don't know why he cares now). Max Buck grabs Cookie's hairspray and sprays Sabin in the eye, and Jeremy rolls into a cover with the tights for 3.

WINNERS: Generation Me, Robbie E, & Cookie in six minutes. This was good TNA-style action, but the careful reader might have taken note of the different number of moves Robbie E hit this match. Listen—you have the worst gimmick in years—this is not the time to hold back on your move-set.

(2) JEFF JARRETT vs. SAMOA JOE
Submission Match

Jarrett shoves a student at Joe to start, who Joe just kicks down. He clotheslines the next and T Bones a third. Jarrett runs away. The student Joe squished second pops him from behind, so Joe Muscle Busts him.

WINNER: No Contest in zero seconds?

(3) RAVEN vs. JEFF HARDY
Win-or-be-Fired Match

JB announces this as the featured match of the evening. First, from Cameron North Carolina, he's the Charismatic Enigma, the self-declared anti-Christ, and, since 10-10-10, the undefeated, undisputed, heavyweight champion of the world—Jeff Hardy. And in the opposite corner we have Raven. Taz talks about Raven storming into Immortal's office—I just rewound through the whole show and still can't find that scene, sorry. Hardy shoots Raven off, but Raven comes back with a shoulder block. A cover gets one. Hardy hits a Jaw Breaker as he gets up, but Raven Drop Toe Holds him right out of the ring. He follows Hardy out and Russian Leg Sweeps him into the guard rail. He rolls Hardy in, goes to the top rope, and rides Hardy down with a knee to the back for two. Raven gets a chair and sets it up in the corner. He tries to whip Hardy into it, but it's reversed. He rolls to the outside. Hardy follows him out and clubs his back, then drives his back into the apron. He rolls back into the ring, but whiffs on a Whisper in the Wind. Raven unloads with jabs and a discus clothesline. He whips him into the corner and comes out with a Running Bulldog for a respectable two count. He looks for the Raven Effect, but it's reversed into a Twist of Hate and a Swanton for the win.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy in 3 minutes.

Dreamer, Kendrick and Stevie come out to say goodbye to Raven. Hogan's music hits, and he comes out. Hogan says that this is quite appropriate. Dixie Carter had the gall to say that this worthless bunch in EV 2.0 had the same importance to wrestling as Hogan. Well this is quite appropriate. With all Raven's whining "what about me?", now he's fired. Quote the Hulkster, nevermore. Raven goes out to confront Hogan, but for some reason Stevie stops him. Hogan says that Hardy now is wrestling.

(4) SHANNON MOORE vs. ABYSS
Casket Match

Moore dodges around the ring to start, then tries for some quick strikes. Abyss no-sells them and hoists Moore up for a battering ram to the corner. Moore slips out and shoves Abyss into the turnbuckle, then hits a series of haymakers and kicks. He attempts a sort of sideways Cross Body Block in the corner, but Abyss catches him and tosses him to the mat. He tosses Moore from the ring and follows him out. He tries to shove him into the casket, but Moore stops himself and comes back with right hands. Abyss stops him with a knee lift. Moore rolls into the ring, and Abyss follows him. The Monster charges in the corner, but Moore dodges to the outside. He hits a couple more punches, then nails a Guillotine Leg Drop when Abyss doubles over. He tries to roll Abyss into the casket, but Abyss stops himself on the apron. Moore goes back to the rights, then hits a running clothesline. Abyss stays on the apron. Moore goes for another, but Abyss palms his head and tosses him out of the ring and into the barricade. Moore still has some fight though, and slams the lid of the casket down onto Abyss's arm. As Abyss flinches back Moore hits an Asai Moonsault over the casket onto Abyss. Wow. He tries to shove Abyss into the casket, and manages to get the torso in before Abyss kicks him off. Abyss gets out and just shoves Moore into the guard rail. Both roll into the ring. Abyss goozles Moore. Moore fights out with elbows to the face, but then runs right into a Black Hole Slam. He drags Moore over to the casket, but when he opens it back up The Pope is there. Pope hits a series of rights, and for some reason the ref calls for the bell. Pope keeps up the beat down, and Moore helps out with a kick off the top rope.

Winner: Abyss by DQ (in a casket match?) in six minutes. Oh wait—Tenay says that the ref just through the match out, which I assume means that it's a no contest—that makes somewhat more sense.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:50 pm
Continued from previous post...

(5) MICKIE JAMES vs. ANGELINA LOVE
#1 Contender's Match

Love goes for a quick gut wrench and a pin. She picks a leg and goes for another, but Mickie bridges out from under her and rolls through for two. She gets another roll-up for two. They share a hand shake of mutual respect. Love gets a side headlock. Mickie tries to shoot her off, but Love hangs on and drives her to the mat. Mickie briefly powers out, but Love just puts it back in. She finally shoves Love off, but then eats a shoulder block. They jockey to try to hit an Arm Drag, but Mickie ends with with a Monkey Flip and a dropkick for two. Love backs Mickie into the corner for a quick forearm. Mickie responds with a knee to the gut, but then eats a jumping clothesline for two. Love hits a Front Power Slam for two again, then goes to the chin lock. Mickie powers out. She goes for a Back Drop, but Love lands on her feet. Love looks for the Botox Injection, but Mickie ducks. Mickie looks for another handshake, but Love shoves her down to the mat for two. Mickie charges Love into the corner, but Love gets her legs up and starts choking her, then whacking her upside the head with her leg. She kicks Mickie back, then floats over into a School Girl for two. She whips Mickie into the corner, but this time Mickie gets her legs around Love's head and comes down with a Twisting Head Scissors. She hits a nice Reverse Neck Breaker for two. She goes to the top rope, but Love ducks beneath her and nails the Botox Injection. It takes her a second to make the cover though, and James kicks out. Angelina lifts Mickie up for the Lights Out, but Mickie elbows out and hits the Impaler DDT. She hooks both legs for the pin.

WINNER: Mickie James in six really great minutes. That was probably the best Love has looked since Awesome Kong left the company.

(6) RIC FLAIR vs. MATT MORGAN

The crowd's behind Morgan, who shoves Flair down and halfway across the ring to start. Flair kicks out Morgan's thigh, then chops him to the corner. Morgan switches spots and slaps Flair a couple times, Back Body Drops him, and Batista/Ultimate Warrior Ups a bit. He charges Flair in the corner and hits his series of back elbows. Flair flops. Morgan looks to do it again, but Flair shoves him out of the corner and into the referee. Flair nails a low blow, then lays in with some stomps. Morgan gets to his knees, where Flair chops and punches the hell out of him. Flair tries to come off the ropes, but Morgan goozles him. Flair pokes the eyes to get out, then flings Morgan from the ring. He follows him out and chops him against the barricade. He hits a punch to the kidneys and some more chops. He tries to drive Morgan into the barricade, but Morgan reverses Flair into the metal. Morgan hits some headlock punches, and Flair is busted open. Morgan bites the wound, then slugs it. He hits a headbutt as Flair rolls into the ring and begs off. Morgan knocks Flair down to start Reaction. Flair stands up in the corner, where Morgan punches his bloody face. Flair flops out again. Morgan hits a Side Slam, but there's still no referee. Morgan signals for a Choke Slam, which he nails. Fortune run down to the ring. AJ, Kaz and Beer Money swamp Morgan as Williams just sort of stands by. AJ gets annoyed at Williams. He tries to drag Williams, but Williams loses it and slugs him. He tosses Kaz and Storm from the ring. Roode grabs him, but by now Morgan's up. Morgan clotheslines everyone right out of the ring. Flair tries to attack, but Morgan no-sells the punches. Morgan sort of hits a Carbon Footprint (it was off by a good six inches, but that might just mean Flair was bleeding more than expected). The ref rolls back in to make the count. Williams nods happily at the top of the ramp.

WINNER: Matt Morgan in eight minutes. It's good to see Flair get in some non-jokey offense, but still to put Morgan over. If you're going to use Flair on free-TV, this was as good a way as any.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2010, 11:51 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-19-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45414.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MVP vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Overhead throw by MVP sent McIntyre to the outside. MVP went out to take the fight to him, but Mac threw MVP into the barricade. MVP recovered and dropped McIntyre abdominal-first over said barricade. Both men were headed back in the ring as they took the first break of the show.

MVP suplexed McIntyre down, but went outside, then under the ring. MVP went after him, but McIntyre pulled MVP’s arm toward him and into the ring apron. I think he’s done that once before. He continued to go to work on the arm of MVP. MVP kicked McIntyre in the back to break a hold, but McIntyre mowed him down with a shoulderblock. MVP caught McIntyre with a boot when Drew was running in. He eventually caught him with another and went for a cover, only to get two. Whip into the buckle by MVP, and he suplexed McIntyre down. Ballin’ elbowdrop landed as Striker name-dropped Charles Oakley. The referee had to restrain McIntyre from MVP in the corner. That allowed MVP to nail McIntyre with a running kick to the head, and that surprisingly finished things.

WINNER: MVP, at 7:29. Well, MVP is out of the doghouse it would seem. Match was a decent enough opener.

2 – CHRIS MASTERS vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger shoved Masters around the ring, but Masters punched him in the head in response. He got Swagger up for a powerslam, to no avail. Vader bomb by Swagger for two. Abdominal stretch by Swagger. Masters worked out of it and gave Swagger a Samoan drop. The announcers were really trying to get over Masters’ credibility, because to the fans, he really has none. Shoulderblock off the middle rope for two. Swagger missed a punch and landed in the Masterlock. Swagger dragged Masters across the ring, then kicked himself up over the top rope and to the apron to break it. That was impressive. Swagger went after the knee with a front chop block, then applied the ankle-lock for the victory.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:58. Fundamentally sound. I still think Masters being in this PPV match speaks poorly of Smackdown’s depth on the babyface side.

3 – KAVAL vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Ziggler got the mic and said he was undefeated as I.C. Champion and he has the hottest girlfriend in the world. He said he is on a roll and that Kaval will be no match for him. He said all the Internet fanboys probably think Kaval is special, but he’s not Ziggler. Ziggler should’ve introduced himself to Kaval. Kaval sent Ziggler shoulder-first into the ring post. Handspring cross-body for two. Zig Zag blocked by Kaval. Couple of reversals of roll-ups got a number of two-counts. Ziggler tried another roll-up, but Kaval grabbed Ziggler’s arms as he was going for the tights, flipped him over, bridged, and got the win.

WINNER: Kaval, at 2:01. Much shorter than I’d like, but hopefully I’ll get my longer match at the PPV. Whoops, jumped the gun there….

Kaval got the mic and said that, since he won NXT and still has a PPV title shot, he’s going to use it to face Ziggler at the Survivor Series for the I.C. Title.

4 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Kingston’s first high-impact move was a hard slap to Cody’s face. Rhodes ran to ringside and kicked the steps a few times in anger that Kingston would dare hit him in the face! He checked the mirror on his jacket to see if he was still OK. Then they went to break.

Rhodes was pounding on Kingston out of break, but Kingston came back with a flying elbow. He kept Rhodes down with a side headlock. Monkey flip by Kingston and Rhodes went back to ringside. Baseball slide on Rhodes as he tried to get back in. Hard uppercut to the chest, but after dodging a clothesline and back elbow, he fell victim to a knee-lift. Striker again plugged Arn Anderson for the Hall-of-Fame after comparing Rhodes to Anderson following a few gourdbusters. Rhodes hooked Kofi’s arms behind his head, but Kofi made it to his feet and flipped Cody over his back. Kofi nailed Cody with a few dropkicks, then hit his flip kick. Cross-body by Kingston for two. Trouble in Paradise missed, as did Beautiful Disaster. Roll-up by Kingston for two. Cross-Rhodes by Rhodes (with the hair AND the tights) ended up getting him the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 10:00. Solid match here, given just enough time.

5 – LAYCOOL vs. NATALYA & KELLY KELLY

Natalya and Kelly traded off against Layla, until she made it to McCool. Wheelbarrow throw by Nattie on McCool. Tag made, but Nattie didn’t see it. Double boot by LayCool put Natalya down, and the heel divas got the win.

WINNERS: LayCool, at 1:12. Just a way to put Nattie in a hole heading to the PPV.

6 – THE BIG SHOW vs. TYLER REKS

Show got his hand around Reks’ throat early on, but couldn’t finish things. Huge clothesline that knocked Show off his feet. Show got serious and ran over Reks, though for some reason, it looked like he slowed down before he hit him. Chokeslam followed that for the win.

WINNER: Show, at 1:18. Don’t know if they were running long or what, given the last two match times.

7 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO

Del Rio kicked away at Mysterio in the corner and reigned blows down upon him as well. Mysterio dodged another corner attack and slid under Del Rio, only to get kicked in the gut. Sunset flip failed by Del Rio and Mysterio set him up for the 619. Then, the entire heel team captained by Del Rio ran down and interfered, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Mysterio, via DQ, at 1:53. I did not expect that so soon.

Mysterio’s team ran down to even the odds, and a brouhaha ensued. Teddy Long came out and must’ve seen that there were nine minutes left, so he turned things into a ten-man battle royal. That’s next.

8 – 10-MAN SURVIVOR SERIES SHOWDOWN BATTLE ROYAL

The bell rang upon return from break. Rhodes got chopped hard in the chest, then no-sold it seconds later to run across the ring at someone else. MVP and Show double-teamed Reks. Mysterio attempted to eliminate Dle Rio. Masters eliminated Rhodes from the apron at 1:23. Reks barely held on to stave off elimination. Masters was thrown over by Reks at 2:06. Del Rio and McIntyre double-teamed Show. Swagger battled MVP in the corner. Kofi took Reks out at 2:50. Headbutt to the heel team captain. Kofi went to the apron and Mac took him out at 3:45. MVP and McIntyre went out in short order, MVP at about 4:00. Del Rio out via Rey at 4:35. Down to Mysterio, Show and Swagger. Swagger locked in the ankle-lock on Rey. With the help of Show, Swagger got set up for the 619. After that connected, Show took Swagger by the throat and pushed him over the top. Del Rio looked on from the ramp, unhappy.

WINNERS: Show and Rey, at 5:10.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 22 2010, 02:16 pm
WWE Survivor Series PPV Results: 11-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_45451.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) -- U.S. Title match

DiBiase and Bryan started trading holds, then the lights suddenly turned out. Bryan and DiBiase kept wrestling, then the lights came back on a few seconds later. Bryan landed a kick strike to the gut that cleared DiBiase to the apron, but DiBiase came back with a suplex clear over the top rope dropping Bryan to the floor. Back in the ring, DiBiase landed an elbow smash while Bryan was draped across the ring apron and the announcers noted DiBiase's new aggression post-Goldust situation.

DiBiase settled into a side headlock as the crowd chanted for Bryan. Cole and Striker bickered some more regarding Bryan before Bryan landed a double foot kick to the chest that decked DiBiase. Bryan then landed trademark kick strikes and backflipped over DiBiase to land another blow. Bryan proceeded to smash DiBiase to the outside and immediately followed with a suicide dive onto DiBiase. Bryan immediately began selling a right shoulder injury before rolling DiBiase back in the ring. Bryan went up top and landed a signature double foot thrust kick to the chest that resulted in a two count. Bryan continued to sell the right shoulder before landing multiple kick strikes to the chest. And some more. DiBiase grabbed Bryan's leg, but Bryan countered into a small package for a two count. Bryan teased the LeBell Lock, but DiBiase blocked and smashed Bryan with a clothesline for a two count. Pause for everyone to catch their breath.

DiBiase fired himself up and kind of started doing a Randy Orton IED pump-up before attempting Dream Street. Bryan rolled out, though, and scored a nearfall while maintaining contact. DiBiase followed with a spinebuster once they broke contact and scored another nearfall. DiBiase then pounded on Bryan with right hands, but Bryan countered a top turnbuckle offensive attempt into a super back drop as they seemed to float in the air for several moments. Bryan scored a nearfall, then tried the LeBell Lock, but DiBiase countered into a corner catapult for a nearfall. Bryan then immediately transitioned into the LeBell Lock out of nowhere and DiBiase was forced to tap out, giving Bryan the win. Cole said he doesn't get it.

WINNER: Bryan at 9:58 to retain the U.S. Title. Excellent opening match. Bryan showed those marketable gritty babyface characteristics while DiBiase showed a more aggressive in-ring side that's been missing form his singles run. (***)
 
2 -- SHEAMUS vs. JOHN MORRISON

Sheamus opened with a slap to the face that fired up Morrison, who landed a head scissors and dropkcik sending Sheamus to the outside. Morrison then nailed a corkscrew plancha on the floor and landed right hand strikes to the jaw. Sheamus shoved Morrison into the barricade, though, followed by a Polish Hammer to the face. Back in the ring, Sheamus resumed control of the action and cut off Morrison's comeback attempts. Sheamus deliberately slowed down the pace and did his Ronald McDonald smile to the crowd, which drew boos. Sheamus became upset moments later and showed a change of emotion pounding on Morrison with clubbing forearms to the back. Morrison fired back with big right hand strikes before hitting a cross-body block from the top rope. Sheamus rolled through, though, and landed a front slam for a two count.

At 6:00, Sheamus turned evil and measured Morrison for the Brogue Kick, but Morrison ducked and hit an enziguiri. Both men fell to the mat, then came to their feet trading bombs. Morrison then nailed successive clotheslines followed by a leg whip for a two count. Moments later, Morrison ran into Sheamus, who dropped him with the Irish Curse backbreaker for a nearfall. Morrison and Sheamus traded control a bit before Sheamus began focusing on Morrison's left knee to cut off his aerial attack.

Morrison suddenly decked Sheamus in the corner and wanted Starship Pain, but Sheamus grabbed Morrison and teased the Irish Curse. Morrison escaped, though, then avoided the Brogue Kick for a second time. Morrison nailed the flash kick before hitting a flying knee strike to the chin for the pin and the win. Striker sent a message to the kids at home to fight back against bullies, like Morrison did against Sheamus.

WINNER: Morrison at 11:11. Good singles match at times. It's not clear if this is a sign of Morrison in line for a stronger babyface push on Raw or just receiving a victory as part of bullying being a hot topic and Sheamus getting his comeuppance. (**)
 
3 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KAVAL -- Intercontinental Title match

Cole did his NXT Season 2 anti-Internet spiel to begin the match as Kaval quickly scored a one count on Ziggler. Ziggler then scored a one count and they began exchanging control of the match. Ziggler settled into control of the match as the announcers filled air time with worthless banter. Kaval then popped Ziggler with a kick strike before coming off the top rope with a springboard moonsault for a two count. Someone was bleeding, as Kaval had a touch of blood on his upper chest. Kaval then absolutely blasted Ziggler in the corner with a springboard kick strike as Ziggler seemed to be looking to counter the move. Kaval communicated with Ziggler, rolled him over, and scored a nearfall.

Kaval wanted a top rope attack, flung Ziggler to the mat, and measured Ziggler for twisting corkscrew plancha, but Ziggler moved. Kaval landed on his feet anyways and scored a nearfall on a small package. Ziggler then came back with the Fameasser for a two count. They reset as Vickie screamed at Ziggler to finish him. Ziggler tried the sleeperhold, but Kaval escaped, then ran off the top turnbuckle and hit a turnaround flying kick for a two count. Nice sequence.

Both men came to their feet at 8:30 and Kaval landed a strike to the mid-section before Ziggler came back with headbutts. They seemed to be trying to feel out the next move and Kaval shot off Ziggler to the ropes. He tried a victory roll, but Ziggler rolled through and grabbed Kaval's tights to to secure a three count. Vickie screamed in delight as Kaval cursed his bad luck. Ziggler, meanwhile, was bleeding from the nose and selling the effects of Kaval's offense as he left with the belt and Vickie.

WINNER: Ziggler at 9:32. Not quite long enough to reach the three-star level, but good action. They seemed to be a bit off at times and the crowd was waiting for something to get excited for early on before the string of nearfalls at the end. (**1/2)
 
Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 22 2010, 02:16 pm
4 -- TEAM MYSTERIO (Rey Mysterio & Big Show & MVP & Kofi Kingston & Chris Masters) vs. TEAM DEL RIO (Alberto Del Rio & Cody Rhodes & Jack Swagger & Tyler Reks & Drew McIntyre) -- Survivor Series elimination match

The crowd was hot with an MVP chant after the opening bell. Del Rio was great selling disbelief over this sudden interest in MVP. Del Rio and Rey were set to start things off, but Del Rio backed off to the heel corner and smiled. Del Rio pointed at Rey, smiled, and tagged in Rhodes. Suddenly, the announcers bickered over Ricky Henderson. In 2010. Lawler begged them to talk about Survivor Series. Cody smashed Rey with a springboard flash kick for a two count, then Del Rio took an opening to tag in and stomp away on Rey. Rey came back with a head scissors before landing a running dropkick to the chest.

Rey tagged in MVP, who came in hot. MVP scored with a boot to the face and scored a two count. MVP landed kick strikes in the corner followed by a Chono boot on Del Rio for a nearfall. Kofi then tagged in and went to work on Del Rio as Lawler recapped his Survivor Series '94 victory over Doink. You knew it was coming. More men tagged in and out as a few members of the audience chanted for either pizza or Big Show. It was MVP, instead, who came in hot on Drew with multiple clotheslines.

MVP set up for the Ballin' elbow drop and connected on Drew before clotheslining Del Rio off the ring apron. Suddenly, Drew came back with a pin attempt and Del Rio quietly trapped MVP's feet from the floor and Drew scored a pinfall on MVP, who was suddenly eliminated at 5:36. MVP complained about the cheat-to-win tactics as we all recall that it's never good to wrestle in your hometown. One minute later, Masters was eliminated via Del Rio's armbreaker submission.

Big Show entered the match for the first time to a big pop. Chris Masters also entered, but tagged out to Del Rio moments later. Del Rio landed a punch to the head, but Show no-sold. Del Rio celebrated, then turned around and found an angry giant. Del Rio went to his corner and tagged in Drew, who previously wanted nothing to do with it. Del Rio then cockily walked over to Show, who popped him with the KO Punch. Del Rio sold being out cold, but Drew was legal and Show went to work on him. Del Rio received some smelling salt treatment before he was helped away from ringside. No official elimination, though.

Kofi and Cody were in there and Kofi punched Cody in the face. Cody threw an absolute fit that his face was messed up. Cody stomped away to the floor and demanded Roberts held up his ring jacket. Cody checked on his face in the mirror, then kicked the ring steps. Cody yelled at Kofi that he has some nerve, but Kofi comically punched him in the face again. Big Show then tagged in and dropped Cody with the KO Punch for another elimination at 10:57.

Tyler Reks and Jack Swagger then flew into the ring trying to chop down Big Show as Cole recapped the official score of 4-3 Del Rio, but unofficially 3-3 with Del Rio taken away from ringside. Swagger and Big Show settled into a one-on-one battle and Swagger countered the chokeslam into an Anklelock submission center ring. Nice sequence. Show dragged himself toward the corner looking for a tag and Rey Mysterio was able to tag in. Rey came in hot on Swagger and scored a nearfall before running into a big boot from Swagger for a nearfall of his own.

Rey tried to come back with the 619, but Swagger grabbed Rey's leg and slapped on the Anklelock. Rey managed to counter by swinging Swagger around. He wanted the 619 again, but Reks tagged in for Swagger. Kofi tagged in for Rey and battled Reks, who took a boot to the face. Kofi then went up top and landed a big cross-body block for a close two count. Reks and Kofi continued to counter each other before Kofi smashed Reks with a kick strike for a pinfall to eliminate Reks at 15:08.

Swagger came in next and tried the gutwrench bomb on Kofi, but Kofi countered into the Trouble in Paradise, only to have Swagger block and apply the Anklelock. Kofi was forced to tap out at 15:55, giving the heels another elimination. Big Show entered next and tried to launch Rey off his shoulders, but Drew cut out Show at the knees. Rey was legal, though, and set up Swagger for the 619. Rey then climbed onto Show's shoulders and splashed Swagger for a pin to eliminate Swagger with a pin at 17:35.

It was unofficially down to Drew, who took a chokeslam from Big Show after Rey distracted him. Show made the pin and that was apparently the official finish despite Del Rio never being eliminated. Anyways, Big Show and Rey Mysterio win, just like in the battle royal on Smackdown.

WINNERS: Big Show & Rey Mysterio at 18:12. Good sequences throughout the match with standout performances from Jack Swagger with his variety of counters and Del Rio being Del Rio, who was protected by the non-official elimination. The end result in favor of Rey & Show was your classic mid-PPV "feel good moment" for the crowd. (***1/4)

Order of Elimination:
MVP via McIntyre at 5:36.
Masters via Del Rio at 6:44.
Rhodes via Show at 10:57.
Reks via Kingston at 15:08.
Kingston via Swagger at 15:55.
Swagger via Rey at 17:35.
Drew via Show at 18:12.
Del Rio never officially eliminated.
 
5 -- Unified Divas champions LAY-COOL (MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA) vs. NATALYA -- handicap match -- Unified Divas Title match

Lay-Cool took advantage of the "numbers game" early on. Natalya found herself on the floor and took a kick to the back from Layla. They had a comical spot on the floor where Natalya knocked Layla over the guardrail, then chucked McCool over the guardrail onto Layla, sending Lay-Cool crashing to the floor. Natalya sold a variety of injuries trying to follow up, then Lay-Cool cut her off and sent her back into the ring. McCool tried to follow up, but Natalya dropped her center ring and slapped on the Sharpshooter. McCool instantly tapped out, giving Natalya the victory.

Post-match: Natalya sold the importance of the moment dropping to her knees and crying. She had her moment for a little bit before Lay-Cool jumped her from behind. They put a beating on Natalya building to...Beth Phoenix making her return from injury. Phoenix smashed Lay-Cool with Polish Hammers, then dropped Layla with the Glam Slam for an exclamation point on her return. Beth hoisted Layla on her shoulders to celebrate before tearing up a bit celebrating the title victory with Natalya.

WINNER: Natalya at 3:38 to capture the Divas Title. Another "feel good moment," this time for Natalya, followed by a surprise return. Beth returning from injury certainly adds another dimension to a women's division in desperate need of depth. We'll probably be seeing a round of Lay-Cool vs. Beth & Natalya type matches on Smackdown. (*)
 
6 -- World Hvt. champion KANE vs. EDGE -- World Hvt. Title match

Kane tried to be aggressive from the start, but Edge cut him off and slipped to the outside to mock Kane by rolling the wheelchair around the ringside area. Edge lured Kane into his trap and wrapped Kane's leg around the ringpost. Back in the ring, Edge went to work on Kane's left knee before Kane came back with leg smashes to the throat. Kane then hung Edge out to dry across the top rope and landed a boot to the head to send Edge to the floor.

On the outside, Kane smashed Edge into the barricade before taking him back into the ring. Kane screamed at Edge demanding to know where Bearer is. The quiet crowd woke up with a "Let's go Edge" chant as Kane continued to take out his frustration on Edge. Kane climbed up top looking for a clothesline, but Edge blocked with a mid-air dropkick that floored both men. Kane and Edge traded near-finishing holds, resulting in Edge scoring with an implant DDT. Edge then got that look in his eyes as he backed off to the corner. Edge wanted the Spear, but Kane blocked with a boot to the forehead. Kane followed with a chokeslam and made a cover, but Edge kicked out.

Kane then teased the Tombstone Piledriver, but Edge dropped Kane with the Spear. Edge kind of rolled over on his side and both men's arms were draped over each other. The ref started a three count and counted to three. Edge's music hit to signal a title change, but the ref waved it off and waved off Tony Chimel's announcement that Edge was the new champion. Chimel then announced the result was a "tie." Who uses the word "tie" anymore in sports? As a result, Kane is still World champ. No replay of the finish here.

Post-match: Kane jumped Edge from behind wanting to know what happened to Bearer. Edge shook off Kane and smashed him into the guardrail. Edge then placed Kane in the guardrail and sped him down the ringside area where he crashed through the gimmicked wall near the timekeeper's table for a loud noise and strong visual. And we're back to the WrestleMania 26 finish with Jericho. A replay of the No Contest finish was shown after the angle. They showed Edge and Kane locking their forearms together and both men's shoulders down on the pin.

WINNER: No Contest at 12:50, Kane retains the World Title. One of those frustratingly uninteresting Smackdown title matches where the TV storyline of Kane wanting to find Bearer doesn't match up with Kane trying to win a match to solve the issue. The non-finish was a groaner but apparently keeps Edge in the game to challenge Kane for the title again. (**)
 
Concluded in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 22 2010, 02:17 pm
7 -- WWE Unified tag champions NEXUS (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/David Otunga, Husky Harris, and Mike McGillicutty) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV

The announcers noted Kozlov has been teaching Santino some Sambo moves. Why didn't this potentially great training video air on TV to hype the bonus title match? Santino greeted Slater with Arian Foster's Touchdown pose before landing a throw into a headlock to show off the Sambo training. Kozlov tagged in and Gabriel took him out at the knees. Nexus began a two-on-one attack as Santino complained to the referee. Kozlov eventually broke free from Nexus and tagged in Santino, who landed left hand jabs and fired himself up. Santino with a hip topss, then the Sailor's salute fist drop on Slater. Gabriel broke up a pin, then the action broke down. Santino suddenly warmed up the Cobra, but Nexus members ran interference. Slater then hit his necktie drop finisher that looks like a transition hold for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Nexus at 5:11 to retain the WWE Tag Titles. Simply a placeholder leading to the main event. The non-Barrett members of Nexus just aren't there yet. (*1/4)

Post-match: Nexus attacked Santino and Kozlov. Suddenly, the Raw GM buzzed and the lights flashed. Cole stepped to the podium and read that at the upcoming WWE Title match, Nexus is banned from ringside. If any member of Nexus attempts to interfere, the entire group will be indefinitely suspended. Therefore, he advises Nexus to leave the ring immediately.
 
8 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT -- WWE Title match -- John Cena special referee -- Free or Fired for Cena -- Victory by pinfall or submission only

Before the bell sounded, Cena asked Orton to hand over the WWE Title belt. Cena showed it to Barrett, then held it up for the crowd to see. Cue the bell. All three men held their places in the ring before Orton and Barrett circled and locked up. The crowd chanted "RKO" as Orton drove Barrett to the corner, then backed away. Another lock up and stalemate. Orton then grabbed a headlock and put Barrett on the mat. Orton then landed a shoulder knock down and Barrett backed away to his corner.

The men circled the ring again before Orton landed a clothesline out of the corner. Cena became involved trying to apply the rules, which gave Orton an opening to land a classic dropkick. Orton then pounded on Barrett with right hands that Cena gave him leeway on. On the floor, Orton attacked Barrett and rammed him into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Barrett took control and whipped Orton hard into the corner turnbuckle before standing on his throat. Barrett then hit a boot to the head and settled into a chinlock.

At 9:00, both men came to their feet and started trading bombs trying to get the crowd involved. Orton then ran over Barrett with a knockdown clothesline followed by a powerslam. Orton fired himself up a bit, then clotheslined Barrett over the top rope to the floor. However, Barrett rammed Orton back-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Barrett ran into a fallaway backbreaker from Orton for a two count. Moments later, Barrett came back with a flying elbow drop from the second rope and scored a nearfall that Cena emphatically called out as a two count. Barrett with another nearfall, which led to Barrett questioning Cena's cadence.

Barrett set up Orton for the Wasteland, but Orton slipped out, only to run into the Black Hole Slam for a two count. Striker at first called it the Boss Man Slam before actually saying the phrase "Black Hole Slam." Silence for a while as Barrett and Cena intensified their discussion. The crowd began a dueling "Let's go Cena" and "Cena sucks" chant despite Cena not in the match. Orton tried to cut those off setting up for the RKO, but Barrett rolled to the outside. Orton then dropped him with a clothesline on the floor and rolled Barrett back into the ring.

Orton was slow re-entering the ring and Barrett hit him with a boot to the head. Barrett then dropped Orton with Wasteland center ring. Barrett rolled him over, but Orton grabbed the bottom rope just before three to break Cena's count. Barrett verified, but still had a word for Cena. Barrett suddenly shoved Cena, who looked away and tried to hold himself. Cena then bumped Barrett, which led to Orton dropping Barrett with the RKO. Orton made a cover, then Cena counted one...two...pause...three. Striker shouted, "Cena's Free!" Cole corrected him: "Cena's Fired." Striker muttered that he got caught up in the moment.

Post-match: Cena then sat down in the corner and contemplated this that he's fired. The moment didn't really have that momentous feel to it. Nexus hit the ring and tried to attack Cena, but Cena and Orton fought them all off. Cena and Orton were left alone in the ring, then Cena grabbed the WWE Title belt from ringside, re-entered the ring, and handed it back to Orton. They embraced, then Orton posed with the WWE Title. Cena was still in the corner as the announcers remained silent.

Orton walked out of the ring with possession of the WWE Title before looking back to the ring and holding his arms up in the air. Orton patted the entrance stage on the way out before the camera returned to Cena standing in the corner.

Cena took off his trademark wristbands and placed them in the center of the ring. Cena slowly looked around the arena before doing salutes to all four corners of the ring. Cena walked over to the announce table and hugged Michael Cole before hugging Sign Guy on the way out. Even Tye-Dye Guy got some TV time. Cena stood on the entrance ramp and smiled before pointing to someone and saying, "Thank you." Cena turned back up the entrance ramp and stood on the stage looking into the crowd. He surveyed the arena one more time before raising his hands in the air as the spotlight was on him.

The crowd chanted for him, then he left the stage and walked into the crowd shaking hands with fans. No sound from the announcers. Not much sound in the arena other than random shouts. Cena shook hands with as many fans as he could touch as a spotlight followed him around the arena. This wasn't something you normally see on WWE TV. Cena continued his victory lap as a single spotlight followed him around the arena. Cena eventually made it back to the entrance stage and saluted the crowd again before turning to leave backstage again. They faded to black at ten minutes before the top of the hour to conclude the PPV.

WINNER: Orton at 15:15 to retain the WWE Title, Cena "fired." The match itself was okay and will be forgotten by tomorrow night. The "swerve" here was Cena actually counting a clean pin for Orton and Cena being "fired." WWE sure played with the emotions of their audience with Cena trying to make it a "real" send-off. In actuality, it looks like Barrett reverses the stipulation (because he has booking power, apparently) either Monday on Raw or sometime down the road because he wants to get his hands on Cena. And he can't get his hands on Cena unless he's in WWE. So, overall, an anticlimactic finish to the PPV that felt more like a TV storyline stretching out to the next TV episode. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 24 2010, 10:49 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 11-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_45499.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- COLT CABANA vs. ERICK STEVENS (w/Prince Nana and Ernesto Osiris) -- #1 contender match for TV Title

Mike Hogewood noted Nana's numerous unsuccessful attempts to find someone from the Embassy to win the TV Title. Cue the opening bell. Cabana controlled the action early on, seemingly toying with Stevens at times. The remarkably slimmed down Stevens then caught Cabana with a Samoan Drop off the ropes to take control of the action. Cabana then ducked a clothesline after being shot off the ropes and came back with a flying shoulder tackle. Cabana babyfaced up by reaching out to the crowd for extra strength before firing off a round of thrust chops and signature Boom Boom Boom right hand blows. A Dusty Rhodes elbow to the forehead resulted in a two count, which drew Nana's involvement on the outside. Cabana, distracted, walked into a big clothesline from Stevens, who scored a nearfall.

The crowd stomped and clapped as they picked up the pace nearing the finish. Stevens scored with a suplex, then wanted the Choo-Choo attack, but Cabana blocked with a flying butt bomb. Cabana then slapped on the Billy Goat's Curse. Stevens teased a tap out, but the Embassy became involved. Stevens tried to capitalize with the Dr. Bomb, but Cabana blocked and rolled up Stevens for the pin and the win. Nana's unsuccessful quest for the TV Title continues.

WINNER: Cabana in 10:00. A solid, workman-like effort from both men. ROH has an opportunity to deliver some strong build-up to Cabana vs. Eddie Edwards, when healthy, for the TV Title. (**)

2 -- DAIZEE HAZE vs. SARA DEL REY

Back from break, they went right to the ring for Women of Honor action. Daizee tried to knock Del Rey off her feet and was successful with a flying cross-body block for a two count. Haze knocked Del Rey to the outside, then went up top and missed with a dive before taking a hard knockdown clothesline. Back in the ring, Del Rey dominated the action as Prazak, the promoter of SHIMMER, put over the female wrestlers trying to prove themselves as athletes, not trying to advance their modeling careers.

Haze then came back with a huracanrana and a facebuster for a two count. Prazak stressed "competition" throughout the match as the women went back and forth. Del Rey then trapped Haze on the top rope and locked her in a Gory special submission hold. She flexed Haze on her back as if she were on a Bowflex commercial, then bent Haze in half over her shoulder. Sick submission attempt.

Haze escaped and applied a bow & arrow submission, which turned into a pin attempt for a nearfall. In the corner, Del Rey scored with a cannonball splash before a landing a big powerbomb that looked like the finish, but Haze kicked out. Del Rey wanted a second powerbomb, but the bell sounded. Ten minute time limit draw. Haze said she wanted more time while Del Rey caught her breath. The announcers said they didn't find out who's better tonight.

WINNER: Draw at 10:00. A classic Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong type match-up with Del Rey playing the role of a bully setting up Haza's "fiery babyface comebacks. Overall, it was an very good back-and-forth match that continued the story after a clear draw. (**)

3 -- DAVEY RICHARDS vs. SHAWN DAIVARI (w/Nana and Osiris)

Prazak name-dropped Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels as men Daivari has gone through during his career. Richards dominated early on, but Daivari showed toughness absorbing multiple kick strikes and knocking Richards to the outside. Nice start selling two tough guys having a fight. Richards then ducked a clothesline and kicked Daivari to the outside. Richards tried a baseball slide kick, but Daivari blocked, only to take a running boot over the guardrail into the front row. Davey high-fived fans to excite the crowd before rolling Daivari back into the ring.

Osiris became involved trying to trip up Richards from the floor, which gave Daivari momentary advantage. Moments later, Richards smashed Osiris with a running kick strike that floored Osiris. Richards then applied an anklelock on Daivari, who escaped. Nana became involved, so Richards punched him to the floor before landing a missile dropkick on Daivari. The kids and women were screaming for Richards, who went up top and landed a diving headbutt. Pin attempt, but Daivari kicked out.

Daivari returned serve with multiple German Suplexes ala Kurt Angle. Richards escaped a fourth momentarily before Daivari hand-clapped Davey's face and executed a release German Suplex for a two count. The crowd loudly chanted, "U-S-A," despite Daivari being American, but that's neither here nor there. Daivari climbed up top for a frog splash, but Davey got his knees up to block.

The competitors came to their feet and traded bombs before Richards landed a step-up enziguiri, only to have Daivari come right back with the backstabber for a close two count. Richards then escaped Daivari's follow-up offense and rolled into an Anklelock submission. Daivari fought the hold, then Davey transitioned into the Texas Cloverleaf. Daivari tapped out, giving Richards the victory. Hogewood signed off with a plug for Richards challenging Roderick Strong for the ROH Title at Final Battle. "Is Richards the next ROH champion?"

WINNER: Richards via submission in 12:00. Another very good, competitive TV match. Daivari was very impressive in a role where he could showcase his in-ring ability. He also set a good tone for the match early on selling his toughness to break away from that cartoonish, comedy heel character he played on national TV. Richards was Richards coming out strong on the way to Final Battle. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 24 2010, 10:50 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_45483.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- R-TRUTH (w/Eve) vs. SHEAMUS -- KOTR qualifying match

The bell sounded and Punk gave an early prediction for Sheamus winning the whole tournament. Sheamus dominated early on and smashed Truth into the mat to wear him down. Punk dismissed the idea of Cena being allowed back on Raw to come have some farewell words after being fired. Truth suddenly made a come back and sort of did a non-PG pelvic thrust toward Sheamus. Truth then ducked a clothesline and cleared Sheamus to the outside where Sheamus angrily pounded the announce table. Truth and Eve had a chuckle as they cut to break.

Back from break, Sheamus was trying to wipe Truth's smile off his face driving him into the mat. Cole noted there will be four KOTR qualifying matches on Raw tonight. Truth broke free from Sheamus, but ran into a knee to the gut. Truth then made a comeback and scored with a hip toss for a two count. Truth then went up top and landed a big missile dropkick on Sheamus, who collapsed to the mat. Truth rolled over Sheamus and made a cover, but Sheamus escaped in time.

Sheamus suddenly came back with a big Brogue Kick that cut off Truth's momentum. Sheamus regrouped, caught his breath, and wanted the High Cross to finish off Truth. The crowd reacted to Sheamus setting up the move, which was a good sign. Sheamus showed off his strength lifting Truth up in the air, then executed the finisher by dropping Truth in the corner. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 11:05 to qualify for KOTR. Nice match. Good two-segment contest getting over Sheamus's aggression on his march back toward respectability. (**1/4)

2 -- ALEX RILEY vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON -- KOTR qualifying match

Cole said he wishes he knew in advance so he could send Miz flowers and a "get well" card. Zeke dominated early on before Riley avoided a corner attack and landed a big splash. Riley then floored Jackson and rolled him over for a two count. Jackson then powered out of Riley's reverse chinlock and landed multiple shoulder tackles followed by a big corner clothesline. Jackson followed with the dominator and that was it for Riley.

WINNER: Jackson at 1:54 to qualify for KOTR. Riley had a lot more offense than I expected here. The obvious goal was getting over Jackson on that Sheamus level of being a threat to run the table with his power offense in the KOTR tournament next week.

3 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Brie Bella) vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) -- non-title KOTR qualifying match

DiBiase dominated early on, with them apparently short on time and cutting right to DiBiase in control. DiBiase then missed with a corner splash and Bryan smashed him with a flying kick to the chest. Bryan tried another attack, but DiBiase busted out a spinebuster for the second straight night. DiBiase then tried a leverage pin on Bryan, but Bryan kicked out and immediately went to the LeBell Lock. DiBiase could not escape and was forced to tap out, giving Bryan the win.

Post-match: Brie slid into the ring to congratulate Bryan. Suddenly, Nikki Bella ran into the ring and grabbed Bryan's other arm to pet him. Bryan wanted nothing to do with a potential cat fight. So, he removed himself from the situation and pushed them close together to embrace. Bryan was smooth there.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 1:52 to qualify for KOTR. They didn't have much time to stand out following their strong PPV match the night before. It made DiBiase look weak, but the audience is used to that by now. As for the Bellas bit, who knows. (*1/4)

4 -- Unified Divas champion NATALYA vs. ALICIA FOX -- non-title match

Interesting beginning with an exchange of catapults into the ropes. Natalya executed a delayed vertical suplex, then slapped on a bear hug. Alicia slipped out, but Natalya grabbed her by the foot and slapped on the Sharpshooter. Alicia was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Natalya at 2:13. Impressive win for Natalya, who is quickly being established as a dominant force. Good to see a potential revitalization of actual women's wrestling in WWE.

5 -- TYSON KIDD vs. JOHN MORRISON -- KOTR qualifying match

Punk said he doesn't understand what's going on with the Divas chasing around the male wrestlers tonight. Kidd aggressively attacked Morrison early on as Punk referenced his feud with Morrison on ECW. Kidd settled into a reverse chinlock before re-entering his heel persona screaming and shouting, "Ask him!" Morrison suddenly ducked a kick strike and blasted Kidd with a thrust kick to the chest. Morrison followed with a leg whip as Punk questioned Cole describing Morrison "molding his body."

Kidd came back with a cradle swinging neckbreaker for a two count. Punk put over the importance of the KOTR tournament while Kidd resumed control of the match. Morrison then executed a double springboard Flying Chuck before going to the corner and executing Starship Pain for the pin and the win, which drew big applause from the "Let's go Cena" crowd. After a replay of Morrison "molding his body" throughout the match, they showed Morrison clapping for the crowd to conclude the match segment.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:17 to qualify for KOTR. Morrison joins Bryan, Jackson, and Sheamus as the four Raw wrestlers in the KOTR tournament. Morrison is quickly moving up the babyface ladder in the absence of Cena for however long Cena is away from TV. On the other side, Kidd was able to show flashes of his trademark heel mannerisms that could really catch on. (*1/2)

6 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT -- WWE Title match

Chioda double-checked with Orton, who demanded he call for the bell, and the match was on. Barrett circled around Orton before attacking the knee. Barrett was aggressive wrenching Orton's knee around the corner ropes and into the ring apron. Barrett continued to work over Orton's knee as they plugged the three-hour Raw next week. Orton suddenly ducked a clothesline and hit the fallaway backbreaker to buy some time. Punk referenced Roddy Piper's promo last week about Barrett spitting on the WWE Title if Barrett wins and he agrees.

Barrett suddenly hit the Wasteland finisher and had the pin, but Cena stormed the ring through the crowd and yanked the referee out of the ring. The crowd was going nuts, then Nexus chased Cena through the crowd and into the arena where they disappeared. Back in the ring, Orton dropped Barrett with the RKO, Chioda came to life, and a three count was rendered for Orton to retain.

WINNER: Orton at 3:50 to retain the WWE Title. That was a heated match and Cena's interruption hinted at follow-up next week. It led to...

Suddenly, The Miz's music hit. Miz stormed the ring with the MITB briefcase in hand and Riley was with him. Punk said this looks really familiar to him. Miz cashed in, Chioda raised the WWE Title belt, and the bell sounded.

7 -- WWE champion RANDY ORTON vs. THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) -- WWE Title match

Orton backed away to the corner forcing Miz to go after him. Miz finally scored with an attack on the knee and went to work on Orton's knee, just like Barrett. Miz teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Orton blocked and caught Miz on the ring apron. He teased the spike DDT, but Miz blocked, only to come back with a powerslam. Orton then began slithering to tease the RKO. He grappled Miz around the neck, but Miz slipped out immediately into the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz made the cover and scored the three count. He's the new WWE champion.

WINNER: Miz at 2:42 to become WWE champion for the first time. Well, I was wrong on thinking Miz wouldn't cash in MITB in 2010. A bit of a crazy ending to the show to say the least. Miz follows the likes of heels Edge, C.M. Punk, and Jack Swagger to get their first major WWE Title via cashing in MITB. Overall, the two matches got a lot of heat on Orton and made him an important player again. It was needed after he was an afterthought during his brief title run. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 24 2010, 03:24 pm
WWE NXT Results: 11-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_45520.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) vs. KAITLYN (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Brie remained on the ring apron to encourage the more aggressive of the twins. Cole started a conversation on the Bellas randomly approaching Daniel Bryan last night on Raw and Bryan apparently rejecting their advances. Kaitlyn used her power offense early on as Cole noted the Pros are still evaluating the Rookies tonight ahead of the elimination. Nikki then came back with an emphatic move and played to the crowd, almost taunting the seemingly empty arena. She's developed a very marketable edge to her character. Mathews plugged the WWE App on his iPhone, which can be found along with the PWTorch App in the iTunes market. The announcers were surprisingly no-selling Vickie ringside.

Cole then talked about Miz becoming new WWE champion. Mathews noted Miz's title victory leading to a Trending Topic and TMZ covering it. Nikki picked up the win and Cole acknowledged Vickie telling her she needs a new Rookie. Vickie began screaming at Kaitlyn, who tried to brush Vickie aside. Mathews said Vickie is the worst Pro in the history of WWE.

WINNER: Nikki in 5:00. Fine showcase of Nikki's personality, which she has managed to get over on this show. (*)

2 -- A.J. (w/Primo) vs. NAOMI (w/Kelly Kelly)

Mathews dramatically tried to build up a talking point of the interesting relationship between A.J. and Primo lately. Cole just no-sold. Cole said he was informed by one of his producers that he talks way too much. He then started to cut a promo on his producer before plugging the King of the Ring tournament on Monday's three-hour episode. Naomi and A.J. were even-steven through the first two minutes, so they shook hands after a handshake. Mathews wondered aloud if there will be another season of NXT. Cole muttered he hopes not.

A.J. and Naomi exchanged nearfalls while Cole pouted on commentary. They came to their feet and traded blows before a double knock down following a Tornado DDT by A.J. Primo and Kelly encouraged their Rookies to get up. "Shut up, Primo," Kelly shouted across the ring to Primo. Cole finally came to life and said, "This is a great match-up!" A.J. built momentum, but ran into a spinning heel kick from Naomi. A.J. then slapped on her octopus submission and Cole shouted, "Octopus, octopus, octopus, octopus, octopus, tap out, tap out, tap out, tap out, go to sleep, go to sleep, go to sleep!" Naomi eventually tapped out, giving A.J. the win.

WINNER: A.J. via submission in 7:00. Cole was acting as he sold excitement over the match, but it was a strong match. Both A.J. and Naomi could provide a boost to the women's division and have strong matches with the top women's wrestlers on the roster. (**)

Ringside: Striker assembled the three remaining Rookies ringside to see which Diva Rookie is going home. Cue the drumroll and, yes, A.J. is eliminated.

The crowd booed and groaned. A.J. took the mic and thanked everyone who voted for her. She began to cry talking about the fans being ready for a Diva like her. A.J. wants to represent all of the girls watching and be a girl the guys want to hang out with. A.J. said this is not the last they have seen of her. She said she will be back and she will accomplish her dreams.

Striker gave it up for A.J., who hugged it out with Naomi and Kaitlyn. Primo just shook his head on the stage unhappy with the elimination. They replayed A.J.'s reaction as Mathews and Cole sold shock over the cut. They replayed Primo selling disbelief. Mathews said voting for next week's final elimination begins at noon EST on WWE's website tomorrow. They showed Kaitlyn and Naomi standing next to each other ringside as the final shot to wrap up the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 27 2010, 05:42 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-25-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45560.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA vs. CURT HAWKINS

Hawkins toyed with and taunted Barreta early on, so Barreta struck him with right hands to the mid-section. Hawkins regained control then asked Jacksonville who the man is. No one replied. Barreta then replied by knocking Hawkins to the outside before hitting a big flip dive. Barreta sold an injury, then slowly walked over to Hawkins, who sent him flying into the guardrail. The referee reached a six count...and they cut to commercial in the middle of a key situation with the mach hanging in the balance. That's sheer laziness from WWE only focusing on count-outs when the finish is a convenient excuse to get out of a clear winner and loser. It should be consistent across the board in every match on every show.

Back from break, both men apparently re-entered the ring before the ten count considering the match was still ongoing with Barreta locked in a headlock. The match moved to the ring apron where Barreta kicked Hawkins in the gut and nailed a sort of leaping leg scissors that knocked Hawkins to the floor. They worked the ten count again, then re-entered the ring where Barreta mounted some offense. Barreta scored with a high-impact springboard missile dropkick for a two count, then Hawkins escaped a roll-up attempt.

Hawkins followed up with a top rope elbow drop attempt, but Barreta moved out of the way and motivated himself to reach his feet. Barreta then hit a big flying knee smash, but Hawkins kicked out. Barretta tried to hit a springboard DDT for the finish, like last week, but Hawkins blocked and immediately hit a facebuster. It was good for a three count to even the recent series. Tye-Dye Guy stood up on the second row to express his approval.

WINNER: Hawkins at 12:00. It looks like we're in line for a rubber match after the two men split the first two matches. Barreta has stood out as a singles wrestler in these matches, which is good for him trying to avoid a pink slip, like his former tag partner, Caylen Croft. Hawkins has not done enough to distinguish himself yet, but that could come with more time and investment from WWE. (*3/4)

2 -- SANTINO & KOZLOV vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO

Also of note from the timing here was Primo's NXT Rookie, A.J., not accompanying Primo to the ring for the match taped Monday, which seemed to give away her elimination the next night on NXT. Kozlov and Ryder began the match. After a stalemate, Primo and Santino entered the ring. Santino tried to show a more serious in-ring arsenal before tagging in Kozlov, who rammed Primo with multiple shoulder blocks. Santino re-entered and took down Ryder, who also re-entered. Santino knocked Ryder to the outside before Lawler offered an interesting comment that stood out beyond the usual announcer fare. "Zack Ryder might want to get used to disappointment in his career if he stays around WWE much longer," Lawler said. On that note, they cut to break with the international duo in control.

Back from break, the crowd was rallying behind Santino, who broke free of a submission hold and attempted the Sailor's Salute fist drop, but Primo blocked with his knees. Ryder then entered the ring and pounded on Santino with right hands. Back to Primo, who taunted Kozlov. Santino eventually made the hot tag to Kozlov, who punted a man before the action broke down. Kozlov proceeded to clothesline Ryder over the top rope to the floor and also made a tag to Santino in the process. Santino entered the ring and dropped Primo with the Cobra, which was good for a three count.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov in 12:00. Fine tag match. Primo and Ryder just seem to be hanging onto roster spots at this point as enhancement talent for babyfaces. It's unfortunate when both could be better utilized, but their roles right now are to make others look better and seem as non-threatening as possible. (*1/4)

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina)

This was a re-match from the Usos winning the same handicap match three weeks ago. Henry started by flinging Jey halfway across the ring. Henry smiled, then ran over Jey with a shoulder block. Henry went for a corner splash moments later, but Jimmy moved and took Henry out at the knee. The Usos worked him for a few minutes before Henry dragged both Usos into the ring. Henry wanted a big double splash, teased it to the crowd, and connected. Jimmy was left alone in the ring and Henry nailed the World's Strongest Slam for the win. After a replay of the finish, Henry smiled for the crowd and celebrated the win to close out the show.

WINNER: Henry in 6:00. Dominating victory for Henry, who evened the recent series to 1-1. More even-steven booking with an opportunity for another rubber match. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2010, 05:23 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-26-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45577.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Eagle Mascot) vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- KOTR qualifying match

Matt Striker noted William Regal is the reigning King of the Ring dating back a few years. Swagger started with amateur wrestling as the crowd chanted for Kofi. Eagle was upset with this and turned to the audience to quiet them down. Swagger then slipped out of the ring and regrouped with Eagle, who flapped encouragement. Back in the ring, Swagger locked up with Kofi and tried to catapult him into the corner, but Kofi landed on his feet and hit a nice cross-body block for a two count. The PG crowd was hot for Kofi, who worked from underneath selling a knee injury as Swagger went to work on the left leg and knee area. Kofi eventually slid out of the ring to catch a breather and Swagger glared down at him as they cut to break five minutes in.

Back from break, the announcers plugged the King of the Ring on Monday's Raw while Eagle got involved grabbing Kofi's feet as he stood on the ring apron. Kofi kicked Eagle in the head, but Swagger knocked Kofi to the outside. Kofi and the bird sold on the floor, then Swagger rolled Kofi back into the ring for a two count. Swagger back in control here. Nice, aggressive spot where Swagger shoved Kofi so hard into the middle rope that it knocked the live ringside cameraman backwards, like a wide receiver crashing into a sideline camera during a football game.

Swagger continued to cut off any momentum Kofi started to build as the announcers bickered amongst themselves. Swagger then played with Kofi by using his boot to shove Kofi out of the ring to the floor. The bird was great pointing and giggling at Kofi. Swagger tried to follow on the outside, but Kofi blocked and bounced Swagger's head off the ring steps. Back in the ring, Swagger regained control as the bird waved instructions to "Swags." Kofi started firing off kick strikes, then an open-hand thrust to build some momentum. Kofi missed with a flying clothesline, but slipped out of a suplex and smashed Swagger into the bottom turnbuckle. Unique spot with Kofi hitting the Boom Drop as Swagger was draped across the bottom buckle, which resulted in a nearfall.

Kofi tried to hit a home run going up top, but Swagger caught Kofi in mid-air and delivered a big powerslam. Swagger then wanted the running Vader Bomb, but Kofi got his feet up to block. Swagger was dazed and Kofi tried a kick, but Swagger grabbed Kofi's ankle. Kofi blocked the lock, though, and sent Swagger head-first into the turnbuckle. Swagger, stunned, got to his feet and walked into the Trouble in Paradise. Swagger sold beautifully and tipped over to the mat in the corner. Kofi made the cover and hooked Swagger's body away from the corner ropes to score a clean win for the win.

WINNER: Kingston in 18:00 to qualify for KOTR. Another very good TV match between these two. The match had some unique counters and spots at the end of the match to make it really stand out. Swagger and Kofi have excellent chemistry with Swagger basing for Kofi's offense while also in a position to get over his power offense. The formula gets sympathy on Kofi, who is very good at working from behind to make his comebacks while rallying the PG audience. (***1/4)

2 -- BIG SHOW vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- KOTR qualifying match

The bell sounded and Del Rio pointed a finger at Show. Show then shoved Del Rio into the corner and tried a frying pan chop, but Del Rio ducked and landed a dropkick that shifted Show a bit. Del Rio randomly went up top, so Show grabbed him around the throat and dumped him on the floor. Show mockingly winked at Del Rio, who sold on the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Show was methodically working over Del Rio, who flopped around the ring before landing a jawbreaker on Show. Del Rio then tried the crossarm breaker, but Show flung him overhead to the mat. Big Show then teased the KO Punch, so Del Rio ran out of the ring to the outside. Show followed on the outside and smashed Del Rio into the announce table before rolling him back into ring. Rodriguez then grabbed Show's feet on the floor, prompting Show to pick up Ricardo and deliver the big KO Punch to the face. The ref was at a nine count, then Show caught the ref's count, which reached ten to give Del Rio the win. Show grimaced and covered his head in disgust as Del Rio celebrated.

WINNER: Del Rio via count-out in 8:00 to qualify for KOTR. Heelish win after a bearable match. I'm not quite sure it's the right match-up for Del Rio, who's still a fragile character trying to establish credibility to back his brash persona. (*)

3 -- MVP vs. DREW MCINTYRE -- KOTR qualifying match

McIntyre was aggressive from the start, getting in MVP's face to trash talk. MVP responded with open-hand slaps and a flying knee to the back of the head. MVP made a cover, but McIntyre kicked out. MVP followed with aggressive right hands before knocking McIntyre to the outside. On the floor, MVP rammed McIntyre face-first into the guardrail before eating the ring steps. Mac then stomped MVP's left arm into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Mac went to work on the left arm as Cole noted McIntyre typically becomes too casual when he usually takes control of a match, which has hurt his win/loss record. That was quite possibly the most insightful line Cole has delivered in months - if not years - selling the in-ring product.

McIntyre tried to resume the left-arm attack on the floor, but MVP rammed Mac into the ring steps. Back in the ring, MVP mounted a comeback with his good right arm. Mac took a facebuster across the knee before MVP landed a one-arm Ballin' elbow drop. MVP then wanted the Playmaker, but Mac blocked. MVP tried a corner move, but he couldn't push off his bad arm and McIntyre hit the Future Shock DDT. McIntyre with the pin and the win.

WINNER: McIntyre in 5:00 to qualify for KOTR. The commentary on this match was refreshingly focused on selling the action like a simulated competition. There are so many stories WWE can tell from this match, e.g. what does MVP need to do to get back on track, why is he losing matches, etc., to set up a "comeback story" the audience can get behind. (*1/2)

4 -- KELLY KELLY vs. MICHELLE McCOOL (w/Layla)

McCool dominated early on, taking out her frustration over dropping the Unified Divas Title to Natalya at Survivor Series. Out of nowhere, Kelly rolled up McCool and trapped her shoulders to the mat for the quick win. Post-match: McCool and Layla beat up Kelly until Beth Phoenix made the save, making her Smackdown TV return after her return at Survivor Series. McCool was left alone in the ring to take the Glam Slam from Phoenix. McCool sold like a dead body outline while Layla freaked out ringside. After a replay of the events, Phoenix and Kelly stood tall in the ring while Lay-Cool regrouped on the floor.

WINNER: Kelly in 1:30. Fine to set up Phoenix's reintroduction on TV. (n/a)

5 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. CODY RHODES -- KOTR qualifying match

Prior to the bell sounding for the main event, Del Rio's music hit for a closer look at Rey's match-up. Cody was as perturbed as Rey with Del Rio's presence ringside. Del Rio greeted Cole with a royal handshake, brushed off Grisham, and stood next to Striker ringside. Rey landed a strike near the face early on, so Cody bailed to the floor to check out his face in his jacket mirror. Rey proceeded to blast Cody from behind, but Cody came back with a kick strike to the face. In the ring, Cody nailed the Alabama Slam for a two count. Del Rio: "You know, I am one step to being the king." Cody maintained control and Rey rolled to the outside to regroup as they cut to a final break.

Back from break, Cody was working over Rey's left arm as Striker queried Del Rio on whether he can be his personal color commentator if he wins King of the Ring. Del Rio ran down Rey, then was asked what he thinks of Cody. Pause. "I am going to skip that question," he dryly said. Rey finally found some offense with a top rope seated sentaun before nailing a turnaround cross-body splash. Rey then walked into a Cross Rhodes attempt, but Rey countered into a quick bridge pin for a nearfall. Rey then smashed Cody in the face for a nearfall.

Rey set up Cody for the 619, but Cody dropped out of the ring as Del Rio dropped his headsets. Rey then tried to smash Cody with a seated sentaun, but Cody ducked and Del Rio ate the move, which popped the crowd. Back in the ring, Rey kicked Cody across the ring and Cody flew back into the referee. Del Rio then crotched Rey into the ringpost from behind. The ref was down, then Cody hit Cross Rhodes on Rey. Cody made the cover, the ref came to, and a three count was rendered in Cody's favor.

WINNER: Rhodes in 9:00 to qualify for KOTR.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2010, 10:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_45644.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

Del Rio took early control as the crowd chanted Bryan's name. Cole recapped the origins of the tournament as Del Rio continued to work on Bryan. Moments later, Bryan busted out the LeBell Lock out of nowhere, but Del Rio fought to the ropes to force a break. Del Rio rolled to the outside and caught his breath as they cut to break.

Back from break, Del Rio was in control after landing an enziguiri kick. Del Rio continued to stomp and kick on Bryan while Cole plugged Out-think The Fink. Bryan made a comeback and scored a two count on a roll-up before scoring another nearfall via a crucifix pin. Bryan followed with an uppercut before flipping over Del Rio and landing a German Suplex for a two count. Bryan then fired up, got the crowd behind him, and landed a big flying dropkick in the corner for another nearfall. Del Rio then ducked a clothesline and came back with a German Suplex of his own for a two count.

Del Rio missed with an attack near the ropes, then Bryan came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive that sent both men crashing into the guardrail. Bryan sold the shoulder injury from last week, which was key for the finish. Back in the ring, Bryan climbed up top and missed with a missile dropkick. Del Rio got that look in his eyes and instantly capitalized with the cross-arm breaker submission. Bryan immediately tapped, giving Del Rio the win. He will face Morrison or Rhodes.

WINNER: Del Rio at 9:40 to advance to the second round. Good, solid TV match. (**)

2 -- CODY RHODES vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

Punk tried to introduce some "over the audience's head" commentary on winning a make-believe King of the Ring tournament in Rio De Janeiro, like Pat Patterson winning the first IC Title. Punk followed with a Ted Turner reference and a loose Vince McMahon reference on his haircut. Rhodes took control of the match as the announcers discussed Miz as new WWE champion. Morrison made a comeback and landed a leg whip for a two count. Both men went for a springboard Chuck Kick, but Morrison landed his. Morrison then hit a flying knee to the face for the pin for the win. Morrison gets Del Rio in the second round.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:38. Not much chemistry in the ring and the chemistry on commentary was far worse. It was awful listening to that banter. (*)

3 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DREW MCINTYRE -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

McIntyre acted cocky early on, which drew a big clothesline from Jackson in the corner. Jackson followed with a forearm to the back of the head while McIntyre was trying to loosen the turnbuckle pad. Mac then rammed Jackson into the exposed steel, which Punk pointed out he called while the announcers doubted him. Punk said that's why he's the wrestler and Cole is the whatever-he-is. Cole corrected him that he's a Superstar, not a wrestler. The announcers tossed around one-liners about sports entertainment while McIntyre worked over Jackson.

The action moved to the floor and the camera focused on the referee making a ten count, which meant a count-out was coming into play. Zeke and McIntyre battled each other on the entranceway and tried to climb over each back into the ring, but they were both counted out. They're both out of the tournament and the winner of Sheamus vs. Kingston will advance to the finals. After the match, they brawled some more until McInytre lived to fight another day.

WINNER: Double count-out at 2:42. In the back of your mind, you had to expect a double count-out somewhere in this tournament. Okay, but not memorable with the announcing continuing to drag down the in-ring content. (*)

4 -- SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- King of the Ring tournament first round match

They teased a double count-out early on before returning to the ring where Kingston landed a standing dropkick. Sheamus and Kingston then teased finishers before Kingston landed Trouble in Paradise. Sheamus avoided a pin by rolling under the ring apron. Kingston then walked into a knee to the head, but came back with a pendulum kick. Kofi wanted a top rope move, but Sheamus nailed him with the Brogue Kick in mid-air. Sheamus scored the pin to advance to the KOTR finals.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:05. As expected, Sheamus moves to the finals. They didn't give this match enough time to stand out, but it was good for the time allotted. (*1/2)

5 -- WWE tag champions NEXUS (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. MARK HENRY & YOSHI TATSU -- non-title match

Less than one minute into the match, the crowd roared as John Cena emerged through the crowd with tickets in hand. Cena shook hands with fans ringside before sitting down on the front row. Punk noted Cena is a camera hog buying a ticket on the camera side. Cena shouted encouragement from the front row as the action broke down in the ring. Slater then came off the top, but Henry caught him in mid-air for the World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Henry & Yoshi at 2:30. The decline of the tag division continues. (n/a)

Post-match: Immediately after the match, John Cena hopped the guardrail, dragged Slater out of the ring, and gave him the Attitude Adjustment through the announce table. Punk said they have the worst security in WWE. Cena then scampered through the crowd to the production area to taunt Nexus as they came out to drag Slater away.

6 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament semi-final match

Punk and Cole ran down the list of former KOTR winners before Punk paused to reflect on William Regal being the last winner. Punk said he spoke with Regal, who is on a "sabbatical" finding his next path. They continued to list random past winners. Cole said it was an "interesting time" in 1995 when Mabel won. Still no references to Owen Hart or Angle. Morrison and Del Rio went back and forth before Del Rio went to work on Morrison's left arm to set up for his submission finisher. Del Rio landed a step-up enzuigiri on Morrison.

Suddenly, a vehicle began honking. JBL cameo? It was Rey Mysterio in Del Rio's vehicle. Mysterio popped up through roof and stared into the ring, which drew Del Rio's attention. The distraction gave Morrison an opening to pop Del Rio with the Flying Chuck for the pin and the win. Morrison goes to the finals. Afterward, Morrison smiled toward Rey, who posed on the roof of Del Rio's vehicle.

WINNER: Morrison at 3:22 to advance to the finals. As expected when the bracket was released, it's Sheamus vs. Morrison in the finals. (*)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2010, 10:23 am
Continued from previous post...

7 -- MARYSE & ALICIA FOX & TAMINA vs. Unified Divas champion NATALYA & MELINA & GAIL KIM -- six-Divas tag match

Melina and Maryse resumed their long-standing feud with an aggressive start to the match. The heels isolated Melina for a while. Suddenly, Santino emerged and started to serenade Tamina with a musical number on the guitar. Tamina lovingly put him in a headlock and dragged him to the back. After that interlude, they resumed the in-ring action with Natalya tagging into the match to square off against Fox. She slapped on the Sharpshooter and Fox tapped out moments later. To the surprise of no one, Gail Kim did not enter the match.

WINNERS: Team Natalya at 3:36. Another week of Natalya dominating and Santino continuing the light comedy with Tamina. Natalya continues to look strong in her role.

8 -- SHEAMUS vs. JOHN MORRISON -- King of the Ring tournament finals

The bell sounded and Morrison began rubbing his shoulder to sell the injury. Sheamus immediately targeted Morrison's injury before knocking him hard off the ring apron to the floor below. Sheamus posed and the crowd booed him as they cut to break.

Back from break, Sheamus drove an elbow into Morrison's throat as he made a cover for a nearfall. Sheamus followed with a single arm DDT before landing clubbing forearms to the chest to continue grounding Morrison. Sheamus proudly stood over Morrison's fallen body before settling into a seated hammerlock. Morrison tried to fight back from his feet with right hand blows before landing a knock-down clothesline. Morrison scored with a heel kick, but Sheamus kicked out of a pin attempt.

Sheamus regained control moments later before setting up for the High Cross. Morrison slipped out, though, and tried a backslide, but Sheamus blocked. Morrison then spun around Sheamus and landed a DDT for a two count when Sheamus grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Morrison tried to follow with a running knee, but Sheamus kicked Morrison in the thigh. Morrison sold an injury, then was caught up top. Sheamus yanked Morrison down to the mat on the injured shoulder and made a cover, but Morrison kicked out.

Sheamus immediately slapped on an armbar, but Morrison moved to his feet, only to have Sheamus flip him back onto his stomach. Morrison teased submitting to the armbar again, but he escaped with a kick to the head. Morrison tried to follow with Starship Pain, but Sheamus got his feet up to block. Sheamus followed right up with the Brogue Kick as the crowd was eating this all up. Sheamus wanted the High Cross again and he connected this time. Sheamus made the cover and that was good for the pin and the win. Sheamus is the 2010 King of the Ring.

WINNER: Sheamus at 12:05. Awesome singles match. The house show reports were right from the European Tour that these two have great chemistry in the ring. We saw a glimpse of it at Survivor Series, but this was a stronger showcase match. A rubber match, perhaps at TLC, could be a very strong PPV match if given 15 minutes. (***1/2)

Post-match: Sheamus slowly walked to the platform as Cole rattled off the names of past Kings of the Ring, including Triple H. Miss USA handed Sheamus his giant scepter before he was given the royal robe. Sheamus sat down on his throne and was given the royal crown. Sheamus caught his breath before taking the mic. Sheamus said the royal lineage of the high kings of Ireland has finally been fulfilled. "Long live the king!" he declared. Sheamus's music hit and he sat down on his throne again. The set up for Triple H's return continues.

9 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JERRY LAWLER -- WWE Title match -- TLC match

Methodical start to the match before Miz flung Lawler to the outside. Miz then brought a chair across Lawler's back. And a second blow. Back in the ring, Miz set up two chairs. He teased a suplex onto the chairs, but Lawler blocked. Miz then recovered and dropped Lawler with the Reality Check onto a chair. The crowd chanted, "Mis is awful," as Miz slowly worked over Lawler. Miz then called for a ladder from Riley, who took forever, allowing Lawler to pop Miz across the back with repeated chair shots. Lawler retrieved a ladder, decked Riley, and then set up a table ringside. Lawler entered the ring with the ladder and tried to ram it into Miz, but Miz moved.

At the top of the hour, Miz took a back drop onto a ladder propped up in the corner, which drew a pop. Lawler was then run over by Riley, who surprised Lawler with a left-arm lariat from the ring apron. Riley tried to follow with a right hand blow, but Lawler blocked and punched Riley off the apron through a table on the floor below. Back in the ring, Lawler set up a ladder looking for the WWE Title, but Miz cut off Lawler and landed a weak-looking boot to the head. Punk called Miz stupid for not climbing the ladder right now. Instead, Miz re-focused on attacking Lawler, who was selling on the mat. Miz then delivered a chair shot to the back and told the crowd about it. He delivered another chair shot.

Miz decided to go up top, but Lawler crotched him. Lawler tried to climb up top for a superplex, but Miz headbutted him. Lawler then landed a big palm thrust and Miz went flying off the top through a table below. Miz was out cold and the crowd went nuts seeing Lawler with an opportunity to climb the ladder.

Suddenly, Cole dropped his headset and checked on Miz. Lawler began climbing the ladder inch by inch as Punk called Cole's actions out of line. They had the shaky hard camera as Lawler reached the belt, only to have Cole grab Lawler by the foot. Lawler asked Cole what he's doing. Cole begged off and said he's sorry. They circled around the ladder before Lawler decked Cole with a right hand to a big pop. Lawler mounted Cole and landed right hands.

In the background, though, Miz climbed up the ladder. Lawler turned around and knocked him down and got a hand on the belt. Miz and Lawler traded blows as Miz hung onto the belt. Lawler landed another right hand and another. Miz then swung the belt into Lawler's face and Lawler fell off the ladder like a tree in the woods. Miz reached up and grabbed the title belt, giving him the win.

Post-match: Punk was alone on commentary recapping Miz still WWE champion thanks to Michael Cole. Punk said he has tremendous respect for both Lawler and Miz. They went to a replay of Cole grabbing Lawler's foot, setting up Lawler decking Cole and Miz eventually retrieving the WWE Title. Punk said Miz is the WWE champion...and he is awesome. The show went off the air with Miz smiling as he clutched the title belt and gasped for air.

WINNER: Miz at 11:52 to retain the WWE Title. That was an example of telling a great story with a basic formula. Of course, the next step is how they reconcile Cole and Lawler on commentary going forward, which should make for interesting TV, but doesn't necessarily do anything for business. That is, unless Cole is taken off Raw. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2010, 10:24 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 11-29-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_45694.shtml"). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EL GENERICO vs. STEVE CORINO

The bell sounded, Corino approached Generico, and Generico grabbed him for a small package to score a quick three count. Post-match: Corino jumped Generico from behind to inflict damage before backing off to the corner. Generico then blindsided Corino with a Yakuza Kick, followed by a second one. Generico followed with a brainbuster that KO'ed Corino center ring. Generico stood over Corino as Hogewood and Prazak set the stage for Generico vs. Steen at Final Battle.

WINNER: Generico in 0:05. A classic, old-school wrestling angle continuing to set the stage for Final Battle. It still works in 2010.

2 -- JON DAVIS vs. RHETT TITUS

They returned to the ring where Jon Davis of the Dark City Fight Club was already in the ring along with Rhett Titus of the All Night Express team. Davis and Titus went back and forth before Titus scored a close nearfall following a leg lariat. Titus started thrusting and dancing before losing control and taking a running knee to the face. Davis then fired off a series of forearms followed by a shoulder tackle from the ring apron. A spinebuster resulted in a nearfall only. Davis then scored with the Pounce to knock Titus to the floor. Davis tried to follow on the floor, but Titus caught him in the face. In the ring, Titus hit a fallaway neckbreaker across his leg for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Titus in 6:00. ROH hasn't done anything with Davis for him to standout as a singles wrestler. Titus has at least improved as a more serious act. Overall, this was your basic TV singles match.

3 -- ADAM COLE & KYLE O'REILLY vs. GRIZZLY REDWOOD & MIKE SYDAL

The rapid-fire series of plugs, videos, and interviews led to a tag match already ready to go in the ring. O'Reilly blasted Sydal, the brother of WWE wrestler Evan Bourne, with a series of kick strikes before tagging in Cole for a double-team move. Grizz then entered the match and used his quickness to run circles around the opposition. Sydal was then caught alone in the ring to bump around for Cole and O'Reilly, who hit a backstabber combination on Sydal for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cole & O'Reilly in 6:00. A fine dose of athleticism while trying to get over some new personalities. Cole and O'Reilly seem a bit unsure of themselves at times in the ring, but they'll find their groove with more TV exposure.

4 -- HOMICIDE vs. NECRO BUTCHER (w/Prince Nana and Ernie Osiris) -- Butcher's Rules match

Necro and Cide had a chair duel to start before Necro cracked a chair across the back. The action moved to the floor where Homicide flung Butcher off the apron onto a chair. Homicide then wound up for a chair shot to the head, but hit the guardrail above Necro's head (thankfully). They strategically cut to another camera angle to leave it to the imagination of the viewer. Necro came up bleeding and Homicide tried opening up his cut with right hands to the forehead. Homicide began tearing apart the ringside area and using various ROH signage to inflict punishment.

The match eventually returned to the ring where Homicide landed a mule kick, did an Eddie shake, and suplexed Butcher through a table propped up in the corner. Homicide immediately looked into the ringside camera to sell the intensity of his character. Necro continued to bleed on the ring. Homicide wanted the Cop Killer, but Osiris stormed the ring. Osiris took the Cop Killer for good measure and Nana could only sell concern with his failed plan.

Necro crotched Homicide to momentarily take control before landing multiple bodyslams onto a stack of chairs. Homicide then stole a chair from Necro and bounced it off the side of Necro's head. It wasn't a direct chair shot to the head, but still too close for comfort. Nana got involved to give Necro control again. The crowd rallied behind Homicide, who blocked another slam onto a chair before landing an Ace Crusher across the chair followed by n Ace Crusher center ring. Homicide with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Homicide in 10:00. Strong match getting over Homicide's intensity, which TNA completely failed to capitalize on when he was in the company. Necro and Homicide worked a relatively safe match for this style of hardcore brawl while still getting over the important story of Homicide on a quest for the ROH Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2010, 10:26 am
WWE NXT Results: 11-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_45681.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and the final vote.

1 -- ALICIA FOX & MAXINE & AKSANA vs. BELLA TWINS & A.J.

Cole said they put six Divas in the ring because "what we can't make up for in quality, we make up for in quantity." A.J. worked over Aksana early on as Cole dryly said he can't remember anything that happened last week. Cole said he has a lot of other things going on in his life right now. He also said these last 13 weeks have been the most horrible experience of his life. Cole said he even had his gong taken away. A.J. eventually made a hot tag to Brie while trash-talkin' Nikki talked trash from the ring apron.

The action broke down as Cole wondered aloud what this has anything to do with anything happening tonight. A.J. eventually re-tagged in and landed a cross-body block on Maxine for the pin and the win. Cole excitedly shouted the win means nothing because she's already been eliminated. "What's next?" he asked. Post-match: Carlito took it upon himself to slip into the ring, then slip A.J. a rousing kiss. Primo then celebrated with A.J. and the Bellas to conclude the segment.

WINNERS: Bellas & A.J. in 5:00.

2 -- NAOMI vs. KAITLYN

The bell sounded and they stared at each other. Cole showed no enthusiasm as the proceedings began. Kaitlyn then did the Big Swing and Cole showed he doesn't keep up with the wrestling product outside of WWE saying he hasn't seen that since the 1980s. Cole then offered an apology to Harley Race, saying he forgot to note Race's King of the Ring victory last night on Raw. He said Race texted Talent Relations and the word was passed along to him. The match moved to the floor where Kaitlyn catapulted Naomi into the ring apron. They cut to a shot of the Pros on the stage with blank looks on their faces.

The action resumed in the ring with a mighty struggle to impress the Pros. The announcers gave a shout-out to Tony Chimel as Naomi scored a nearfall. Cole then shouted at the referee to count faster. The crowd rallied up with a "Let's go Kaitlyn" chant before Naomi and Kaitlyn crashed and burned in the ring. They cut to Vickie groaning and Fox laughing. Kaitlyn eventually scored the pin for the win and Cole complained about the ref's count.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 6:00.

In-ring: Matt Striker was with Naomi and Kaitlyn in the ring to finally find out who's winning Season 3. Striker cued the drumroll and they cut to the video screen. And the winner is...Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn dropped to her knees in the ring to celebrate while Vickie leaned back on her stool with her arms folded. Naomi and Kaitlyn hugged each other in the ring.

Naomi was given talking time. She said she's bittersweet, but she's proud of Kaitlyn. Exit Naomi. Kaitlyn took the mic and shouted, "I promised myself I wouldn't cry." She said she got a call two days before NXT Season 3 started and had nothing to wear. Kaitlyn thanked everyone, including her ridiculous Pro, Vickie Guerrero. Kaitlyn was booed by the crowd for her attempted babyface promo. She gave a shout-out to A.J. and Naomi before trying a "You suck Aksana" chant. "That's classy," Cole whispered. Cole said he's shocked Kaitlyn didn't thank him.

The Pros entered the ring and hugged it out with Kaitlyn. Aksana then walked out on stage twirling her hair. A.J. hugged Kaitlyn and practically wrapped herself around Kaitlyn. Cole walked off the set and banged his headset on the announce table as they replayed Kaitlyn winning and celebrating. They went to a shot of Vickie selling disgust with the result before a final in-ring shot of the Pros and Rookies clapping for Kaitlyn.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 05 2010, 08:59 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-2-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45734.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA vs. TYLER REKS

Reks took control early on as Hawkins said his beef with Barreta is he just doesn't like the guy and he keeps copying him. Hawkins said he's a future main-eventer, a future "top guy." Equating it to Attitude Era, Hawkins said he's The Rock and Barreta is Headbanger Mosh. Barreta came back with a dropkick before Reks landed a headbutt to the mid-section. Barreta then knocked Reks to the outside and nailed a springboard Asai moonsault on the floor. Back in the ring, Barreta scored a nearfall after beating a ten count back in the ring. They cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was in control as Hawkins continued getting over his talking points about wanting to shake Barreta from his spotlight. Reks slapped on a bearhug to slow down the pace before transitioning into a gutbuster. Barreta came back with a kick strike before landing an elbow and running knee to the face for a two count. Barreta followed with a top rope missile dropkick to the back of the head, but only scored a two count. Reks then avoided a corner attack and caught Barreta with the Burning Hammer (torture rack into a facebuster) for the pin and the win. Hawkins said that's just a shame. Afterward, Reks did his Neanderthal pose as Hawkins continued to express contempt for Barreta.

WINNER: Reks in 10:00. The highlight of the match was Hawkins on commentary. WWE gave him an opening to show personality and he took advantage of it. Well done. Reks just isn't connecting right now, which made it tough for Barreta to work from behind when the crowd wasn't interested in the action. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. DARREN YOUNG

Punk noted he was Young's Pro on NXT Season 1 before complementing Young on cutting his hair. Stanford said Young was the first member of Nexus to be excommunicated, which would be ignoring Daniel Bryan's storyline write-off when he was fired. Regal and Young battled back and forth while Stanford provided a soundtrack of nervous laughter trying to sell Punk's material. Young scored a nearfall, then Regal backed off to the corner to lure Young into a trap of eating the ringpost. Regal followed with the Regal Stretch and the crowd popped. Young submitted, giving Regal a third victory over Young on Superstars. Regal looked down at Punk while Stanford suggested Punk should help out Young.

WINNER: Regal via submission in 5:00. Good to see Regal back on TV looking dominant. WWE simply hasn't done anything with Young post-Nexus. (*)

3 -- TYSON KIDD vs. D.H. SMITH

After a few opening moves, Kidd and Smith had a verbal joust, shouting at each other about their tag team split. Smith then kicked Kidd to the outside and followed him around on the floor. Smith rammed Kidd into the ring apron before press-slamming him back into the ring. Smith was too aggressive looking for a clothesline and Kidd ducked before nailing an enziguiri to the back of the head. Smith rolled to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was in control of the action trying to wear down the larger Smith. Kidd went into his trademark chinlock while shouting at the ref, "Ask him!" Stanford noted Natalya isn't ringside showing support for either man, prompting a round of sexist remarks by Punk. Stanford then name-dropped Bret Hart and wondered where he is while this is going on. Punk said he's letting them sort out their issues. Smith made a comeback and executed a Northern Lights suplex for a two count.

Smith teased the Sharpshooter, but he took too long setting up the move, allowing Kidd to escape. Kidd then snapped off a spinning Fisherman Suplex for a two count. Kidd tried to follow with a Sharpshooter of his own and he executed the hold center ring. Smith fought the hold and teased a tap-out before making a final gasp for the bottom rope to break the hold. Moments later, Kidd went for a springboard sunset flip, but Smith trapped Kidd's body to the mat and scored a pinfall for the win.

Post-match: Smith showed some enthusiasm shouting toward the hard camera to celebrate the win. Kidd sold despair before Smith started to leave the ring. Smith returned and wanted a handshake. Kidd the classic "hands-on-hips, what-should-I-do?" look before slapping Smith across the face. Kidd scampered out of the ring and told Smith he got lucky tonight. End show with Smith looking for revenge.

WINNER: Smith in 12:00. Strong second-half of the match with Smith scoring an un-decisive victory to keep the issue going. We'll see if the program advances to Raw for the next chapter of the feud. Kidd is developing nicely as a heel while Smith needs time to develop his face persona. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 05 2010, 09:00 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-2-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Wilkenfeld's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45735.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

(1) INK INC. vs. THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. GENERATION ME vs. BEER MONEY
Non-Title Match

We start with a hot open as Jesse Neal flies out onto Gen Me, followed by Moore doing likewise. Ric Flair is on commentary. Beer Money swoop in and take control. They take Moore into the ring and set him up on the top rope. They look for a Beer Money Superplex, but Neal comes up behind and hits a Tower of Doom. Jeremy Buck flips in with a Springboard X Factor, but gets yanked out and double teamed by the Guns. The Guns pull a ladder out from under the ring, but Max pops them from behind and the ladder falls ramp-like against the ring. Sabin drives Max into the ladder (briefly sandwiching Jeremy) and then take turns hitting flying forearms. Jeremy attacks and sets up the ladder, taking a moment to hurl a chair into Shelley's head (damnit!). While Shelley fends them off Sabin slips to the top of the ladder and nails a Cross Body Block off the top. In the ring Ink Inc. are picking on Roode, but Storm yanks Neal to the outside. Roode drives Moore to the mat for a two count. Storm comes back in and they Stomp a Mudhole in Moore. Storm decides to work a chin lock. He and Roode and trading tags, but they seem to be the only ones. Roode stomps Moore's hand. Moore gets up firing, then bounces off the middle rope with a Cross Body Block. Storm tags back in and hits some slow strikes in the corner, gaining speed to some nice right hands. He pops Neal off the apron as he tries to come back in. They look for a Back Body Drop but lower their heads to early. Moore fights out, but right into a DWI which he somehow kicks out of. Roode and Storm argue with the ref (Jackson?), which gives Moore the opening to hit a School Boy (I think with tights) for the quick win.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in six minutes (shown). That was a good hot open.

(2) KAZARIAN vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS

Kazarian goes for a quick start, charging Williams but getting caught by an Arm Drag. Williams bounces off the ropes with a European Uppercut, then nails a few standing ones. The crowd's behind him but can't figure out what to chant. He hits a high knee and a nice Suplex for two. He looks for Rolling Chaos but Kazarian elbows him back and hits a Slingshot Leg Drop for two. Kaz works a front face lock. Williams powers half-way out, but Kazrian freezes him with some knees and brings him back down with a Neck Breaker for two. Williams fights back from his knees, but Kaz rakes the eyes. Kazarian lifts him up but he slips behind—before he can do anything Kazarian slips out and nails a leg lariat. Kazarian drives his arm into Williams's face and talks some trash. He stands on Williams's back against the bottom rope. Kazarian whips Williams off the ropes and dropkicks him for two. Williams hits open-hand haymakers as he gets up, but is too weak to keep the offense going—Kazarian shoves him back into the middle rope. He whips Williams off, but Williams catches himself. Kaz charges and gets elevated up and over the top rope. He lands on the apron and tries to come back with a Slingshot DDT. Williams looks for the German Suplex, but at the apex of the Suplex Kazarian reverses into a Victory Roll which Williams re-reverses into a cover for two. Sweet. Kazarian hits a quick Wave of the Future for two, but no one but me seems to remember the name of that move (picture a Lethal Combo that doesn't actually connect on the Back Breaker). Kazarian signals for the reverse Pile Driver, but Williams slips out and connects with Rolling Chaos Theory.

WINNER: Doug Williams in five minutes—great match (for five minutes)--I'm not sure why they didn't give this more time as a PPV match, but maybe we'll just do it again?

(3) SARITA vs. MADISON RAYNE (w/TARA) vs. ANGELINA LOVE
Non-Title Match

Mickie jumps Tara before the start of the match, and they drive each other into walls towards the back. While the ref is giving Love instructions Rayne pops Sarita with the belt. Love drags Rayne into the ring and hits a couple flying forearms, then a dropkick to a seated Rayne for a two count. Rayne kicks Love in the gut as she gets up, then yanks her down by the hair a few times. She pulls on the hair some more. She works a rear chin lock. She wraps her legs around Love's head, but before she can do the mat pound Love slips out and hits a big clothesline. She hits a Power Slam, then whips Rayne chest-first into the turnbuckle. She tosses Rayne from the ring. Rayne grabs the belt, and as the ref is checking on Sarita whacks Love with it. However, Sarita quickly shoves Rayne back out of the ring and falls onto Love for the cover and the win.

WINNER: Sarita in 3 minutes—this wasn't much of a match, but I'm always happy to see Sarita get over.

(4) MATT MORGAN vs. RHINO

Morgan shoves Rhino back to start. Rhino comes back with some strikes. He works a side headlock, but Morgan shoots him off and into a shoulder block. AJ vs. Williams is official for Sunday. Morgan hits his step-over-top-rope-choke-thing. Rhino comes back with a quick strike and shoves Morgan into the ring post. He rolls Morgan into the ring and stomps his forehead, which is bleeding some. Rhino hits a couple shots to the forehead, then chokes Morgan against the middle rope. He steps on the wound. He kicks Morgan in the head and covers for two. He works a choke. I'm bored, but the crowd's come alive for Morgan, who powers out. Rhino shoves him into the corner and goes back to right hands, but Morgan no sells them. He touches his own blood and gets a furious look. Rhino backs off. Morgan comes with a trio of clotheslines, then charges Rhino in the corner. A Side Slam gets two. Morgan signals for a Choke Slam. Rhino elbows out but then runs right into a discus clothesline for two. Morgan hits his series of back elbows. Morgan goes for another charge but Rhino stops him with an elbow to the abdomen, then hits a Belly-to-Belly Suplex. Rhino goes for a Gore, but Morgan side-steps. Morgan signals for the Carbon Footprint and nails it. Fortune swarm right when the count is at two.

WINNER: Matt Morgan by DQ in five minutes. Rhino's offense felt a bit slow, but the crowd was really digging the Morgan comeback.

(5) ABYSS & JEFF JARRETT vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO & SAMOA JOE

Jarrett goes behind Pope to start, but Pope flips him down. They get in some quick chain-wrestling on the mat, culminating with Jarrett shooting Pope off. Pope hits a shoulder block and they grapple into the corner. Pope unloads with a series of quick strikes. Joe asks for a tag. Pope does, but takes so long that Jarrett tags out too. Joe is not happy. Abyss shoves him into the corner, where he dodges a charge and hits his version of the Pele. Joe face washes Abyss, and Pope blind tags himself in on the running boot. Joe is not happy, and as they bicker Abyss nails a double clothesline. He beats Pope into the corner, then charges him. Jarrett tags back in. He goes for an arm bar, but Joe kicks him in the back before he can really get it locked in. He maintains the hold anyway, but then lets it go to tag in Abyss. Pope tries for a series of rights, but then walks right into a Big Boot. Jarrett tags in and works a rear naked choke. Pope hits a back drop as Impact ends. Joe tags himself in as Jarrett tags out. Joe unloads with jabs, hits an inverted atomic drop, a yakuza kick, and a Senton Splash for a long two count. Abyss tries to whip Joe into the corner, but Joe stops him with an elbow and comes off the middle rope with a kick for two. Abyss gets up firing, but Joe nails a Snap Slam for a long two count. Joe charges into the corner but gets goozled. Abyss hits the Choke Slam. Pope comes in and hits his big uppercut, then clotheslines Abyss out of the ring. Jarrett comes behind and picks Pope's leg. Neither of them is legal, but the ref doesn't appear to care. Pope crawls to the rope, but Jarrett pulls him off. Pope rolls through, sending Jarrett into the ref. Pope goes over the top rope and onto Abyss. Jarrett grabs his guitar, but Abyss kicks right through it. Joe picks up the guitar to taunt Jarrett, but that's when Brian Hebner comes back in. He sees Joe with the broken guitar over the prone Jarrett and calls for the bell.

WINNERS: Jeff Jarrett & Abyss by DQ in 8 minutes.

As Joe yells at the ref Jeff comes behind and locks in his own Kokido Clutch. Abyss has whipped Pope into the coffin, but Jeff calls him over to help him get Joe in. The casket opens and Kurt Angle comes out. The crowd goes nuts, and Jeff figures something's fishy. Abyss attacks Kurt and eats an Olympic Slam, but Jarrett flees.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 05 2010, 09:03 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-3-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45765.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – DOLPH ZIGGLER & DREW MCINTYRE vs. KAVAL & MVP

MVP’s final WWE match here, and after recently getting new music. Todd Grisham asked Michael Cole about what happened with him and Jerry Lawler on Raw. Cole got angry and said he will address it on Monday. Crowd chanted for MVP as soon as the bell rang. Striker said Mac went blow-for-blow with “Whoa Nellie” Zeke Jackson, a play on the nickname of football star Keith Jackson (which came from the homespun whimsy of football announcer Keith Jackson). Several covers on Drew early by the face team. McIntyre took a shot to the gut and Mac was able to tag out. MVP tagged Ziggler with a clothesline. There looked to be a miscommunication, as MVP was going to hit the ropes but saw McIntyre wasn’t on the apron, and hesitated. After a few more shots to Ziggler, he hit the ropes with Mac on the apron and McIntyre interfered illegally. Kaval launched onto both heels on the outside with a springboard (off MVP’s back) cross-body. They went to break at this point.

Ziggler was in control for the heel team out of break. MVP came back and planted Ziggler on his face. Face-buster on the knee by MVP, who then set up, for the final time, his ballin’ elbowdrop. MVP got distracted and Ziggler went after the knee. McIntyre tagged in and continued to work over that body part. Grisham plugged that Ziggler would be an NXT pro on Season Four coming up. Does Vickie try to make Ziggler jealous by macking on Ziggler’s rookie? MVP nearly made a tag, but Ziggler cut him off. MVP kicked away and tagged Kaval. He used his kicks to keep the heels at bay, then hit a springboard knee to the skull. On a cover attempt, McIntyre interfered. MVP got hold of him outside the ring, but was sent into the announce table. Ziggler tried to lock on a sleeper, but couldn’t. Kaval turned a suplex into a dragon sleeper. Vickie got on the apron to cause a distraction, and McIntyre knocked Kaval off Ziggler. Zig Zag on Kaval and that was that.

WINNERS: Ziggler and McIntyre, at 11:24. Fine match, but not sure the purpose. I guess a Ziggler vs. Kaval feud could develop, and they’re resolving some KOTR qualifying match issues.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER - INTERCONTINENTAL TITLE #1 CONTENDER MATCH

The second match of the night began at 8:48 EST. Looks like Swagger has a new t-shirt to plug. Swagger wrestled Kingston to the ground and kept him there until Kingston got to the ropes. Collar-and-elbow tie-up, and the two held it for a while, until Kingston monkey-flipped Swagger. They came to a stalemate after that. Again, the two briefly scuffled, but came up with neither man getting the better of the other. Swagger finally seemed to one-up Kofi, using his hair to take Kingston down. He tried to get Kofi out of the corner, but Kofi held on. When he got to his feet, he used his speed to avoid Swagger, and then nailed him with a dropkick to the chest. Couple punts to the chest by Kingston, who then went to the top. Swagger met him up there and threw Kingston off, though it almost became ugly as Swagger nearly lost his balance. Kingston got his foot on the rope on a pin attempt, then rolled out of the ring as they went to break about 5:00 in.

Swagger again went for a near-fall, but Kofi kicked out. Swagger stayed on top of Kofi, not giving him room to breathe. He clipped Kingston in the knee, then did it again and got a two-count on a cover. Swagger grabbed an abdominal stretch in the middle of the ring. He really wrenched it and did a gator role (called by my roommate, then Striker). Outside the ring, Kingston avoided the steel steps and Swagger ended up running into them. Kingston then jumped off the stairs and onto Swagger with a forearm. Kofi got back into the ring, and Swagger made it in at the nine-count. Back in the ring, Kofi stung Swagger with uppercuts and kicks. Flip roll-up looked ugly and Striker tried to cover for it. Swagger tried for a gutwrench powerbomb, but Kingston rolled out, only to be met by a big boot. Pin attempt got a two-count. Beal out of the corner by Swagger, but he got tripped up by his foe trying the Vader bomb. Kofi pounded on Swagger with his fists in the corner. Things went into slow motion for a bit as the guys seemed to be gassed. Springboard cross-body by Kofi for two. Trouble in Paradise was blocked and Swagger tried the ankle-lock. Kingston wiggled enough to where Swagger threw Kofi out of the ring. Swagger ducked through the ropes to get him, but he was hit in the face with Trouble in Paradise. Kofi came back in the ring and made the pin.

WINNER: Kingston, at 15:51. 15 minute match, and no Boom Drop? The guys were obviously tired by the end, but did a good job overall. Not terribly thrilled about seeing another Ziggler vs. Kingston match, this time at TLC.

3 – CHRIS MASTERS vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Masters was about to punch Rhodes, but Rhodes ducked under the middle rope to avoid getting hit in the face. He was on the apron, and Masters grabbed a Masterlock, which he was forced to break. Rhodes then took control with knees to the mid-section. He then worked the left arm of Masters. Masters made his comeback and chopped Rhodes in the chest. Rhodes avoided a collision in the corner, then landed the Beautiful Disaster kick. Cross-Rhodes followed for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:58. A good win for Rhodes until they find something for him to do. I’d like to see him get an IC Title shot; he has really improved.

4 – ROSA MENDES vs. LAYLA

Layla mocked Rosa by pretending to jump rope. Rosa attacked, but Layla took over offense soon after. Rosa towers over Layla, by the way. McCool got on the apron to distract Mendes. Rosa threw Layla into McCool, then rolled her up for a two-count. Layla came back with the Layout neck-breaker for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 1:04.

As LayCool attacked Rosa, I expected Beth to make the save for another babyface (after doing so for Natalya and Kelly in recent weeks), but Hornswoggle came from under the ring. LayCool mocked him by getting on their knees and readying for a fight, but Beth Phoenix ran out. She brawled with LayCool at ringside, and pushed McCool over Hornswoggle. She then axe-handled Layla out of the ring. Once it was cleared, the Swagger soaring eagle came out and wanted to fight Horny. He boxed with the little guy and Hornswoggle imitated the Ultimate Warrior. Unfortuantely, he walked right into a big boot (talon?) from the eagle. As he danced, Phoenix picked him up and gave him the Glam Slam in an odd scene. She then called for Hornswoggle to give him the Tadpole splash, which he did. Striker claimed this segment added levity to the show. Judge for yourself.

5 – KANE vs. EDGE – WINNERS DECIDES STIPULATION FOR RE-MATCH AT TLC

The match quickly went to the outside, where Kane took control and slammed Edge’s back into the side of the apron. Edge took out Kane’s knee in the corner back in the ring, and kicked away as Kane was on his back. Back to the outside, where Edge ran into an uppercut. Back in the ring, a basement dropkick by Kane kept Edge down. Edge lowered the top rope and low-bridged Kane over the top. Edge speared Kane off the apron and to the arena floor. They took the final break of the show here.

They came back with Kane crotching Edge on the top rope. Edge headbutted Kane down, however. Another change in offense came when Kane locked in a rear chinlock. Edge came back, but Kane avoided a charge and threw Edge over the top and to the outside. Back to the outside for the third time, Kane’s knee went off the steps and Edge flew off the steps onto Kane. Kane went back into the ring and Edge dove onto him off the top rope. Only a two-count. Swinging neckbreaker by Edge. Edge-O-Matic for only two. Soon after, Kane came off the top with a clothesline. Impaler DDT by Edge turned the tide again. Edge went for a spear, but Kane clotheslined him. He set up for the chokeslam, but Bearer came on the Titan-Tron screaming for Kane to come get him. Kane went to the aisle and was torn between going back to the ring and going after his father. He chose the match. As he got back in the ring, Edge speared him for the win.

WINNER: Edge, at 13:19. This match felt like it took a half-hour. In addition to this feud not clicking, they don’t seem to mesh well in the ring, either.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 06 2010, 02:07 pm
TNA Final Resolution PPV Results: 12-5-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_45809.shtml)

1 -- INK, INC. (Shannon Moore & Jesse Neal) vs. BEER MONEY (Robert Roode & James Storm) -- #1 contender match for TNA Tag Titles

Tenay and Taz set the stage that Immortal/Fortune want all of the gold in TNA, so Beer Money is looking to get the Tag Titles back. Tenay apologized for the technical difficulties at the start of the PPV as the opening match began. The females in the crowd were hot for Ink, Inc. early on as they executed flashy offense to control the match early on. Beer Money had miscommunication issues to keep feeding the crowd's interest in the match before Beer Money cheated to take control of the match.

After being isolated for a few minutes, Neal made a hot tag to Moore, who landed high-flying offense before playing to the partisan crowd. The action broke down moments later and both members of Beer Money were cleared to the outside to set up some moves on the outside. Shannon executed an Asai moonsault on Roode, then took a ride on Storm's booze cruiser for a babyface pop. Back in the ring, Moore executed a neckbreaker on Roode for a two count. Neal then tagged in and cleaned house. He looked like the Red Rooster with his red Mohawk flapping. Neal charged Roode, but ran into a superkick from Storm. Beer Money hit the DWI on Neal and that was good for the three count.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 10:45. Basic, formula tag match to start the PPV. The match was fine and sets up another potential classic between the Guns and Beer Money. The vocal females in the crowd were firmly behind Ink, Inc., which kept the crowd into the match. (**)

2 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TARA -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Tara came to the ring on her motorcycle before dipping out of the ring when Mickie made her entrance. Tara pointed to the floor, saying she wants to start the fight on the floor. So, they did. Jackson James is the special referee, of note. The action moved into the ring for a short while before returning to the outside. From the outside, they went deeper into the Impact Zone exploring the entire building. A few onlookers cheered on Mickie, who was whipped into a trash receptacle.

The Knockouts left the building and Tara sent Mickie flying into a row of wheelchairs against the wall of the soundstage. One of the Universal Studios rides was in the background as Mickie took a bottle of water from the Impact Zone concessions and sprayed Tara with it. Mickie and Tara trash-talked each other as Mickie shoved Tara into the chainlink fence separating the Impact Zone from Universal Studios. They moved closer to the theme park exchanging control of the "match."

Next was the men's restroom outside of the Soundstage. A couple of guys were taking care of business. One guy was taking the Browns to the Super Bowl and he charged out of a stall with newspaper in hand. Taz noted he failed to wash his hands. The ref had enough and stormed off. Suddenly, Madison came out of a stall with a fire extinguisher. She sprayed Mickie, who dropped to the restroom floor. Tara made the cover and told the referee to come back. Three count and it was over.

WINNER: Tara at 10:25. Only in TNA can there be outside interference in a Falls Count Anywhere match. They took an intense, physical feud that was hot at last month's PPV and turned it into comedy here. At least it seems to be setting up Madison vs. Mickie for the Knockouts Title. (n/a)

3 -- X Division champion ROBBIE E. vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title match -- Cookie suspended in a shark cage

Before the match, Cookie complained that she was not going in the shark cage. Lethal had enough and dragged Lethal into the ring to star the match. Cookie decided to peace out and started to leave. You knew this was coming. Shark Boy returns. Shark dragged Cookie to ringside and threw her in the shark cage. Ref Earl Hebner called for the cage to be raised and the bell sounded to officially begin the match. Cookie continued to interject herself into the match by screaming down at Lethal from inside the cage. Lethal dominated early on and Robbie accepted one hard chop, then a second, and a third. Robbie sold like a pro here.

Robbie took control moments later and gave a shout-out to Cookie that he has this under control. Cookie screamed at Hebner to count faster following a two count. Robbie slapped on a hard reverse chinlock and maintained the hold for a while. Lethal sold fading out as his hand was dropped twice before clenching his fist on the third drop. Lethal mounted a comeback and landed a handspring elbow smash followed by the Lethal Combination for a two count. Lethal and Robbie then collided mid-ring as Cookie shouted instructions from the cage. She managed to toss an object to Robbie over Hebner's head, but Hebner took it away when he saw it. Cookie then tossed a second hairspray object to Robbie, but Lethal stole it and used it. Hebner felt the spray as Lethal went for a pin, so Hebner DQ'ed Lethal.

Post-match: Cookie was lowered to ringside in the cage and escaped with the win. Cookie posed in the ring with the X Division Title as Robbie sold on the floor and Lethal dejectedly walked off. Cookie continued to parade around with the title belt until Shark Boy re-emerged. Shark took a slap to the face, then a second slap. Shark turned around, then hit a Stunner on Cookie.

WINNER: Robbie via DQ at 8:11. An expected over-booked finish to continue presenting The Shore as heels who effectively circumvent the rules. Unfortunately for Lethal, the babyface to finally give Robbie and Cookie (or just Cookie) their comeuppance wasn't the babyface in the match, but a character who hasn't been on TV in months. Whether it's on PPV or TV or at a house show, violence against women doesn't need to happen, and it fits TNA's traditional misogynistic booking. As for Robbie, I was really impressed with his work in this match first selling for Lethal, then his offensive attack. It was a step up for him. (**)

4 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. RHINO -- First Blood match

The match began with RVD in control of the action. He showboated to the crowd several times before the action moved to the floor. Rhino landed a suplex on the floor to take control of the action. Back in the ring, Rhino landed a Gore that temporarily KO'ed RVD. Naturally, Rhino began celebrating and playing to the crowd. Why not immediately grab a knife or a cheese grater from under the ring and try to slice open RVD's forehead? Rhino took his time retrieving a trashcan that he placed in-between the turnbuckles in the corner. It didn't come into play immediately, as RVD made a comeback and hit a Five-Star frogsplash. The trashcan came into play when RVD tried to smash Rhino, but Rhino punched him in the groin before hitting a DDT.

Rhino tried to finish off RVD with a piledriver into a trashcan lid, but RVD blocked. RVD then surfboard kicked a trashcan lid into Rhino's face. No blood yet. RVD placed a trashcan into Rhino's body, then went to the opposite corner. Poor Rhino had to sell for a while as RVD showboated on the top turnbuckle before going coast-to-cast with the Van Terminator. Rhino came up bleeding heavily from the forehead, giving RVD the win and more time to showboat. The announcers speculated on Rhino's future in TNA and Immortal after the loss.

WINNER: RVD at 12:24. Rhino showed a different side to his character working heel, while RVD seemed to be going through the motions in a middle-of-a-PPV match. The First Blood stipulation is inherently flawed, as there are so many ways to make someone bleed without needing to go through the steps of a standard wrestling match. Considering the parameters of the match were not established ahead of time, it created unintended logic questions. On a show with so many stipulation matches, this match won't stand out on the overall PPV line-up. (**1/4)

5 -- TV champion A.J. STYLES vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS -- TNA TV Title match

Styles played heel by stalling early in the match, but the crowd was split on supporting Doug or Styles. Williams cleared Styles to the floor early on and landed a cannonball splash off the ring apron. Back in the ring, Styles and Williams went back and forth showing how evenly matched they are in the ring. Styles took momentary control and did his signature high-flying moves to get babyface pops. Styles then caught Williams's knee on the middle rope, giving him an opening to slap on the figure four leglock. Williams escaped, then mounted a comeback with uppercuts and elbow strikes. Williams executed an exploder suplex that resulted in a two count.

The action continued to go back-and-forth with Styles in control and Williams fighting back from his knees. Styles landed a Pele kick that could have resulted in a fall, but Williams fell to the outside. Styles tried a high-flying move, but Williams caught Styles with a waistlock and proceeded to bounce Styles off the guardrail into Rolling Chaos onto the ringside padding. Great sequence. Back in the ring, Williams teased the Styles Clash and connected. Williams made a cover and it was good for a three count to win the TV Title.

WINNER: Williams at 14:50 to capture the TV Title. Terrific match with Williams showcasing his technical skills to eventually win over the crowd, which was partial toward Styles early on. Very interesting finish with Styles losing clean to Williams. (***1/2)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 06 2010, 02:08 pm
Continued from previous post...

6 -- TNA tag champions MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. GENERATION ME (MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK) -- TNA Tag Title match -- Full Metal Mayhem match

GenMe came out first and waited for the Guns to meet them on the entranceramp to initiate the match. The tag belts were suspended above the ring TLC-style. The teams went back and forth trading offense early on. Sabin took a chair near the head/neck region when Jeremy tossed a chair toward his face, which was too close for comfort. Max Buck was the first to tease climbing a ladder looking for the tag belts, but Shelley yanked him down. The Guns then crunched Max inside the ladder before suplexing Jeremy on top of the ladder. Next, Max was hung up in the tree of woe to take a surfboard dropkick. This led to Shelley coming off the top with a double foot stomp onto both GenMe'ers, who were stacked up inside chairs and ladders. The Guns backed off to the corner to let the audience soak in the climax of the sequence of moves punishing GenMe.

Shelley began climbing the ladder, but it was apparently too short for the champs to reach up and grab the tag belts. Cue up the short jokes. The Guns then brought in two more ladders, which were of equal height. So, after stalling for time to allow GenMe recover, all four men battled on top of the three ladders in-play. Eventually, all four men came back to the mat where the Guns took control again. The Guns then placed a table on top of the three ladders positioned in the center ring of the ring. The construction area did not come into play immediately, as Shelley KO'ed Jeremy on the outside by delivering Sliced Bread #2 off the apron through a table.

Sabin and Max then climbed up the ladders and stood on the table about 10-15 feet in the air. They traded chair shots and Max took a flatback bump off the table through a table on the mat below. Sabin then reached up and took the TNA Tag Titles. Sabin was bleeding from the forehead as the camera zoomed in on Sabin selling shock they kept the ittles. Meanwhile, Shelley sold a left knee injury as he re-entered the ring to celebrate.

WINNERS: Guns at 16:27 to retain the TNA Tag Titles. Ambitious, creative match, but that was almost the match's downfall with several overly-choreographed spots that seemed too complicated at times and almost canceled out the really innovative spots they brought to the table. On a PPV heavy with stipulation matches, the teams tried to stand out, but with mixed success. Individually, Sabin continues to stand out as a future singles star for this company. Sabin vs. Max Buck in a singles feud down the road could be money. (***)

7 -- THE POPE D'ANGELO DINERO vs. ABYSS -- Casket match

Abyss called for the casket to be opened 20 seconds into the match, but Pope blocked and moved the action to the floor. Pope rammed Abyss's head into the guardrail several times and teased a casket entry, but Abyss blocked and they re-entered the ring. They returned to the floor and Abyss dropped Pope onto the edge of the casket in a painful-looking spot. Back in the ring, Abyss nailed a charging corner splash and took control of the match. Abyss called for the lid and headbutted Pope into the casket. Abyss took a deep breath and slowly approached the lid, but Pope kicked the lid open. Pope then fired himself up and made a comeback, including a bulldog from the second rope that always looks so dangerous with the head/neck region involved.

Pope called for the casket to be opened and he dumped Abyss inside. Pope tried to close the lid, but Abyss grabbed Pope around the throat and knocked Pope back to center ring. Abyss then rolled Pope into the casket and again took his sweet time approaching the lid. He tried to close it, but Pope blocked by pushing against the top of the plastic-looking lid. Pope made another comeback and connected with the DDE double knee smash to the back. Pope rolled Abyss into the casket again, then tried to close the lid while standing on the floor, but Abyss punched through the Styrofoam-looking side of the casket and connected with Pope's groin. Abyss proceeded to chokeslam Pope into the casket and he closed the lid this time for the win. Abyss showed off his fist, which was bleeding from the punch-through-the-casket move.

WINNER: Abyss at 11:40. It was what it was - another gimmick match that seemed laughable at times because of how cheap the casket looked. (*1/4)

8 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. SAMOA JOE -- Submission match

Joe circled around the ring early on to avoid locking up with Jarrett. Joe eventually lured Jarrett into an armbar, but Jarrett reached the ropes for a break. Joe remained seated on the mat to taunt Jarrett before applying a keylock that Jarrett escaped. Jarrett came back with a front anklelock, but Joe escaped and landed right hand blows. Joe then rolled Jarrett onto his stomach and applied an anklelock, but Jarrett broke the hold again. Joe came back with a Texas Cloverleaf and Joe sat down on the hold center-ring. Jarrett, again, escaped to the ropes.

Jarrett had enough and teased leaving the ring, but Joe slapped on a rear naked choke. Jarrett tapped, but they were outside of the ring. The announcers noted Hebner's pre-match instructions the finish must happen inside the ring. So, inside the ring, Joe applied a Crossface. Jarrett tapped, but his foot was under the ropes, so ref Hebner waved it off. Joe then hit the Musclebuster and slapped on a rear naked choke, but TNA security hit the ring to distract the ref. Joe cleared them from the ring, but it gave Jarrett an opening to slap on the Anklelock. Joe was forced to tap out, giving Jarrett another win over Joe.

WINNER: Jarrett via submission at 9:05. Fun, different match focused on actual wrestling holds. It was a classic heel victory with Jarrett winning only because of circumstances rather than actual skill. The feud doesn't seem to be over, as Joe needs to conquer Jarrett before the program is over. Big picture - is this the best use of Joe? Probably not, but it's keeping him in the main event picture. (**1/4)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. MATT MORGAN -- TNA World Title match -- No DQ match -- Mr. Anderson special referee

Anderson called for the bell and the match was on. Morgan dominated early and landed signature rapid-fire elbow smashes in the corner. Morgan then choked Hardy across the top rope and Anderson casually leaned against the top rope before saying, "Yeah, it's No DQ." Hardy then slingshot Morgan across the top rope to take control of the match. Hardy settled into a chinlock before Morgan came to his feet. Hardy tried right hands, but Morgan no-sold and side-stepped a desperation Whisper in the Wind attempt. Morgan then smashed Hardy with a discus clothesline for a close two count. Morgan scored another close two count and kept his cool as Anderson told him it was a two.

Hardy suddenly came back with a Twist of Hate, but Morgan kicked out. Hardy didn't like the count, then took out his anger on Morgan. Morgan suddenly nailed the Carbon Footprint, but he sold a knee injury immediately afterward. It gave Hardy an opening to put his foot on the bottom rope to break a subsequent pin. Morgan continued to sell the knee and couldn't execute a suplex, so Hardy nailed a Twist of Hate for another two count. Hardy ripped off his t-shirt and went for the Swanton Bomb, but Morgan got his knees up to block. On commentary, Taz said Hardy was behind closed doors all day, so they didn't know what mindset he was in for the title match.

Hardy and Morgan came to their feet, but Hardy ducked out of the ring and dared Anderson to count him out. Anderson slowly counted to eight, reached nine, and stopped before ten. He left the ring and told Hardy to get back in the ring. Hardy piefaced Anderson, then again. And a third time. Anderson then reached back and popped Hardy with right hands before rolling Hardy back into the ring. Morgan rolled up Hardy, but Hardy kicked out with Anderson maintaining a normal cadence. Back on their feet, Hardy nailed a third Twist of Hate. Anderson then very slowly dropped to his knees, made a one count, made a two count, held the two, Morgan kicked out, and Anderson dramatically said it was a close nearfall.

At 10:00, Hardy slipped out of the ring and lured Morgan into popping him with a chair to the knee. The chair entered the ring with Hardy and Anderson was bumped to the outside. Morgan then smashed Hardy with the Carbon Footprint and had the visual three count with Anderson on the floor. Suddenly, Eric Bischoff showed up and led Jackson James to the ring. Bischoff rammed Anderson into the ringpost before throwing Jackson into the ring, not realizing Morgan still had a pin going. Morgan almost scored a three count, which would have been hilarious if Bischoff accidentally cost Hardy the title. Morgan glared at Bischoff, who turned to leave. Morgan then held up the chair and wanted a chokeslam, but Hardy kicked him low. Hardy then hit another Twist of Hate, this one on the chair. Hardy made a cover and it was good for a three count. Hardy retains the TNA Title.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy at 12:31 to retain the TNA Title. Another over-booked TNA Title match with the heel winning to keep the program going, although they seemed to be looking ahead to Hardy vs. Anderson rather than another re-match for Morgan, who has another "out" after the visual three count and ref bump. As for Hardy, he can put together a good performance in his sleep, which seems to be part of the problem where he can get by with his "I don't care" attitude because of how good he is as a performer. We received word prior to the PPV that he was almost pulled because he was hammered backstage, but TNA stuck with the original PPV line-up. And they kept the TNA Title on him. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 07 2010, 03:35 pm
WWE RAW Results: 12-6-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_45833.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & BRIE BELLA vs. TED DIBIASE & MARYSE

Five seconds into the match, Nikki headed to ringside for a closer look at the action. Punk said he hopes another Maryse comes to the ring. Bryan started things off in control of the match. Punk slipped and called him "Bryan Daniel" before wondering aloud why Bryan has his own locker room. The Divas then entered the ring and collided center-ring. Suddenly, the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo while Maryse was arguing with Bryan, who smiled at her. Nikki then rolled up Maryse with a small package for the win.

Post-match: Bryan congratulated his other date while Brie half-clapped ringside. "Yeah....go team." DiBiase and Maryse had their own issues, with Maryse telling DiBiase to talk to the hand. She bailed and DiBiase flashed his angry face. Meanwhile, Bryan celebrated on the stage with the Bellas.

WINNERS: Bryan & Bellas at 2:07. Interesting developments coming to a head. Bryan could certainly be utilized in a different way, but it keeps him on TV while waiting for an opportunity to be involved in something more important. (n/a)

2 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Jackson Andrews) vs. D.H. SMITH

Kidd took control early on as Punk noted he doesn't believe Kidd needs "this guy" ringside. Mathews said his sheer presence ringside is enough to intimidate an opponent. Smith and Kidd traded control of the action before battling up top. Smith went for like a delayed vertical suplex, teased dropping Kidd on his neck, then flexed Kidd over his head for a superplex. That was a sick display of power. Moments later, Kidd scored a surprise pin for the win.

Post-match: Smith tried to attack Kidd on the outside, but Andrews grabbed Smith and threw him back into the ring. Andrews executed a developmental-quality left-arm clothesline that floored Smith. Kidd and Andrews then stood over Smith ala Michaels and Diesel.

WINNER: Kidd at 2:11. Too short to amount to much in the ring, but Smith's three-step superplex was sick. Andrews is pretty rough around the edges, but we know why he was called up to the main roster.

3 -- WWE tag champions NEXUS (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY w/Tamina) vs. MARK HENRY & YOSHI TATSU -- Tag Title match -- Elimination style

Gabriel and Yoshi started things off. They collided mid-ring before trading chops to the chest. Henry tagged in, then Gabriel scrambled to the Usos. The Usos wanted no part of Henry, picking up their issues from the Superstars show. The action broke down momentarily allowing Slater to drop Yoshi with his finisher that looks like a transition move for a pin. **Yoshi & Henry eliminated at 3:04**

The Usos and the tag champs battled, then Slater forced Kozlov into the ring with a "collision tag" near the ropes. Kozlov gladly entered and dropped Jimmy with the Iron Curtain for an elimination. **Usos eliminated at 4:38** The Usos started to leave, but Tamina stayed behind to stay in Santino's corner. She nervously bit her lip looking back and forth between Santino and the Usos. Back in the ring, Nexus controlled Kozlov until Santino took a tag at 6:00.

Santino landed two moves before Nexus cut him off and began double-teaming him. Tamina continued to nervously bite her lip as Santino tried to fight out of the heel corner. Despite the relatively rapid-fire nature of the falls in the match, they cut to a break with the heels maintaining control of Santino.

Back live, referee Chioda audibly told Kozlov and Gabriel, "Okay, we're live." Whoops. On cue, Kozlov broke free and hot-tagged Santino, who landed signature offense. Santino did like a Stunner while doing the splits and it resulted in a nearfall. The action broke down and John Cena suddenly appeared from under the ring. The crowd popped as Cena hopped on the ring apron and distracted Gabriel, who then walked into the Cobra from Santino. Santino made the cover for the win to capture the tag titles.

Post-match: Cena ran into the stands and smiled toward the ring while celebrating with the crowd. Santino and Kozlov celebrated with the belts, then Tamina joined them. Santino encouraged Tamina to do the big trumpet dance celebration, which she obliged on. Lawler laughed before agreeing with Punk that it's weird.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 11:56 to capture the WWE Tag Titles. Another weak endorsement of the Nexus also-rans behind Barrett, while also setting up Barrett's follow-through on addressing Cena. Santino & Kozlov as tag champs fits WWE's harmless "entertainment for the family" type marketing that seems to be more prominent by the week. (*1/2)

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA vs. MELINA -- non-title match

Natalya landed a delayed vertical suplex early on, then Melina caught Natalya in the ring ropes and delivered a backstabber. Melina tried to work on Natalya's back before Natalya made a comeback and applied the Sharpshooter. They zoomed in tight on Melina fighting the hold, then Natalya leaned back on the hold, and Melina tapped out.

Post-match: Lay-Cool slowly left the announce table and circled the ring. Natalya was too wrapped up in celebrating her victory that Layla and McCool high-lowed her in the ring. They followed by grabbing a handful of hair to slam Natalya to the mat. Meanwhile, they spotshadowed Melina walking off to the back selling her back. Lay-Cool left Natalya KO'ed in the ring to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Natalya at 2:26. Fine match to continue building up Natalya's hot streak. WWE is playing fast and loose trying to keep up with their explanations of how certain people can appear on the show. In any event, the next chapter of Natalya vs. Lay-Cool begins.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. ALEX RILEY (w/WWE champion The Miz)

The bell sounded and Miz distracted Orton, which allowed Riley to start attacking the "injured" left knee from Raw two weeks ago. Punk said he doesn't believe it was a good decision by Orton to take the match two weeks before TLC. He suggested the match at TLC could be a ladder match, which would hurt Orton's cause trying to climb a ladder on a bum knee. Orton made a comeback with a clothesline, then he delivered a snap powerslam. Orton then caught Riley on the ring apron and delivered a spike DDT. Orton stared down Miz, then turned around and entered IED mode. Orton wanted the RKO, but Miz stormed the ring and dropped Orton from behind with the Skullcrushing Finale for a DQ.

Post-match: Miz took the mic and said he's going to show Orton what kind of match they're going to have at the PPV. Miz went looking for an object under the ring and found a table. (Punk with the red herring of a ladder match.) There was also a big tub of what appeared to be sports drinks underneath there. Miz set up a table in the ring and teased the SCF into the table, but Orton slipped out. They teased a table spot in Orton's favor, but Miz slipped out and bailed from the ring. Miz retrieved his WWE Title belt and stood his ground on the outside. Suddenly, Orton turned toward Riley, who was selling in the corner. Orton scooped up Riley, stared down Miz, and proceeded to powerbomb Riley through the table. (Orton channeling his inner Batista.) Miz clenched his jaw and slowly backed away, not giving into Orton's mind games. Orton paced around the ring while Miz clutched the WWE Title and backed away.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 2:45. Expectedly short with the inexperienced Riley in the ring opposite Orton, whose in-ring time needs to be limited while nursing an injury. Miz not over-doing his reactions after his plan was foiled was a good touch. (*)

Lots of talking at the start (Cole apologizing, then not apologizing to Lawler, then eats a RKO), the middle (Cena attacking + distracting Nexus, King Sheamus and Morrison going after each other) and the end (Barrett facing Cena and the rest of Nexus turning their backs to Barrett) so there was a little over 20 minutes of in-ring wrestling action tonight.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 09 2010, 09:56 am
WWE NXT Results: 12-7-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_45865.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity challenge.

The cast of Season Four of WWE NXT:

-- Rookie: Johnny Curtis. Pro: R-Truth.
-- Rookie: Byron Saxton Pro: Chris Masters.
-- Rookie: Brodus Clay. Pro: Ted DiBiase.
-- Rookie: Jacob Novak. Pro: Dolph Ziggler.
-- Rookie: Derrick Bateman. Pro: Daniel Bryan.
-- Rookie: Conor O'Brian. Pro: Alberto Del Rio.

1 -- JOHNNY CURTIS (w/R-Truth) vs. JACOB NOVAK (w/Dolph Ziggler)

Mathews noted the situation on Raw where Wade Barrett was given an ultimatum from Nexus to re-hire John Cena or be exiled. The announcers said Curtis is the favorite this season as he worked from behind with Novak working as the heel. Curtis landed a dropkick, then came off the top with a leg drop. It was good for the pin and the win. The crowd cheered while Ziggler rolled his eyes.

WINNER: Curtis (1-0) in 4:00. Neither wrestler showed much of an "it" factor. Curtis is being presented as the babyface favorite, so we'll keep an eye out on whether WWE protects him throughout the season.

On-stage: Striker introduced Capture the Flag with an obstacle course setting. Poor Brodus is at a disadvantage here. Curtis was the first man up. Curtis awkwardly ran up the entranceramp and finished at 28.6. O'Brian was next. Someone in the crowd audibly said, "Rat man!" O'Brian struggled to get the ladder in the ring, but scored a 28.2 time to take the lead.

Contestant #3 was Brodus Clay. Clay charged the ladder and worked his way up the ladder in the ring to capture the flag. He charged the entrance stage, but finished at 33.5. Byron Saxton was next. Saxton tip-toed down the ramp and approached the ladder before slowly setting it up inside the ring. Saxton celebrated grabbing the flag, but fell off the ladder. Saxton slowly walked out of the ring and finished at 56.8.

Contestant #5 was Novak. No heat on this as Novak got the flag and gracefully made it up the stage to finish at 26.9 to set the new mark. Bateman was last. Alberto Del Rio added his own commentary as Bateman climbed the ladder. Bryan led the crowd in a "Bate-man, Bate-man" chant. The official time on Bateman was 27.3. The clock operator seemed to add an extra second. Mathews noted the questionable clock work as Del Rio told Bateman he's a loser. So, Novak earns the immunity point.

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & CONOR O'BRIAN

Grisham made a "Late Night with Conor O'Brian" joke and said he got it out of his system Week 1 so he doesn't have to say it ever again. Del Rio worked over Bateman early on before bumping Bryan off the ring apron. O'Brian then executed a foot stomp to the head as Grisham segued from an immunity points discussion to a question of whether Mathews received his flu shot this year. On-stage, Maryse and DiBiase were huddled up while Ziggler picked up a conversation with Maryse.

Suddenly, O'Brian and Bateman dizzied themselves. Bateman stumbled over to Bryan for a tag, then Bryan proceeded to airplane spin O'Brian for about 30 seconds. Bryan sold dizziness, then instinctively started a babyface clap. Bryan dumped O'Brian to the floor, then knocked Del Rio off the ring apron. Bateman tagged in and flew through the ropes with a suicide dive on Del Rio and Rookie. The babyfaces were in control going to break.

Back from break, Bryan was perched up top to deliver a double axe handle smash on O'Brian. On stage, Maryse picked something off DiBiase's shirt before they cut back to the ring where Bryan smashed O'Brian with rapid-fire kicks. Del Rio then cheated to give his team control working over Bryan. Grisham noted "Del Rio" means "The River" in Spanish. He segued into a comment that O'Brian would be "up the river without a paddle" without Del Rio. Team River continued to work over Bryan. Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler told the crowd, "This match sucks." That was apparently in response to the crowd chanting that Del Rio sucks.

Bryan came flying out of the heel corner with a roundhouse kick on Del Rio, which led to Bateman tagging in and cleaning house on Del Rio. Bateman walked into a boot to the gut, but came back with a boot and a swinging neckbreaker for a nearfall. The action broke down with Bryan clearing O'Brian on the outside. Back in the ring, Bateman airballed a cross-body press and Del Rio slapped on the cross-arm breaker. Bateman immediately tapped out.

Del Rio didn't let go immediately, giving Bateman some extra punishment in the first Rookie hazing moment of NXT. Del Rio and O'Brian then celebrated in the ring while Bryan checked on Bateman. Mathews and Grisham signed off as the show went to a final shot of Del Rio and O'Brian celebrating on the way out of the ring.

WINNERS: Del Rio & O'Brian (1-0) in 12:00. Fine match. Similar to The Miz standing next to Alex Riley, Bryan will benefit from the juxtaposition of being a Pro standing next a Rookie.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2010, 10:48 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-6-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_45911.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROH TV champion EDDIE EDWARDS vs. COLT CABANA -- TV Title match

Basic feeling-out process to start things off as they cut to a shot of Bennett watching intently from the front row. After a stalemate, they came to their feet and started trading chops as the time limit box flashed in the upper right corner of the screen. They traded nearfalls, then started rolling across the ring interlocked in a series of one count pin attempts. Cabana then hit a butt bump for a two count before applying a neck wrench submission center ring. Edwards was able to roll into a pin attempt, then both men came to their feet and traded blows again.

Cabana gained the upperhand and connected with a top rope moonsault, but Edwards kicked out of a pin attempt. Cabana continued to attempt pin attempts, but Edwards escaped each time. Cabana sold frustration as the crowd tried to rally behind him. The men traded rapid-fire pin attempts, which drew applause from the crowd. Edwards then hit a chinbreaker from the second rope for a nearfall of his own. As they approached one minute remaining the match, Edwards was able to roll Cabana out of the corner into a bridging leverage pin for the three count.

WINNER: Edwards at 14:00. Very nice, evenly-matched contest. Cabana didn't lose anything from the loss, as Edwards was presented as a strong champion who is on a roll as TV champion. (***)

2 -- EL GENERICO vs. BOBBY SHIELDS

Generico came to the ring sporting his black mask to sell his change in demeanor. Shields tried to jump Generico before the bell, but Generico thwarted his attack and eventually hit the Brainbuster for a quick victory on Steen. After the match, Generico grabbed a chair from ringside and the t-shirt Steen left behind during his promo. In the ring, Generico put the shirt on the chair, then gave Shields a brainbuster onto the chair. Hogewood said this has to be the end of the feud.

WINNER: Generico in 1:00. Effective squash to continue setting up Steen vs. Generico at Final Battle. (n/a)

3 -- SHANE HAGADORN vs. BLAIN RAGE -- Exhibition match

Hero was still on the mic narrating the exhibition. Rage attempted a waistlock on Shane, but Hero cut him off. "That was not an exhibition waistlock," he told him. Hagadorn tried to take down Rage, but he wasn't strong enough, so Rage threw himself down. Rage went for another wrestling hold, which upset Hero again. Hero screamed at Hagadorn to take him down already. Rage had enough and shoved Shane, so Shane slapped him. Rage, enraged, tackled Hagadorn, but received a boot to the head from Hero for good measure. The KOW then hit their KRS One finisher to drop Rage on the mat. Claudio resumed his coffee consumption without breaking a sweat as Shane dropped an elbow on Rage to score the "pin" that Claudio counted.

WINNER: Shane. Another simple, effective piece of hype for Final Battle promoting Kings of Wrestling vs. Briscoes. Claudio was simply great in this segment playing off Hero's stronger heel persona. (n/a)

4 -- DAVEY RICHARDS vs. ERICK STEVENS (w/Prince Nana and Osiris)

The crowd tried to get under Stevens's skin early on as Prazak noted there is talk in the locker room that Nana is becoming frustrated with Embassy's inability to get the job done recently. Richards took the early advantage, but lost control on the outside when Stevens side-stepped a baseball slide and sent Richards flying into the guardrail. In the ring, Stevens worked on Richards for a few minutes. Richards made a furious comeback with a series of headbutts leading to a superplex that floored both men. Richards hit a handspring elbow smash that resulted in a nearfall, then Richards knocked Nana to the floor and connected with a missile dropkick. The crowd was hot for Richards hitting a combination of moves that culminated with a diving headbutt for a nearfall.

At 10:00, Stevens elbowed out of a suplex and both men traded blows before Stevens landed a lariat for a nearfall. Stevens wanted to follow with the Doctor Bomb, but Richards escaped and slapped on the Anklelock center ring. Stevens escaped again, then countered Davey's finisher and scored a close nearfall that drew Nana's ire. Stevens wanted the Dr. Bomb again, but Richards countered into the Anklelock again. Stevens tried to escape again, but Richards blocked the escape and transitioned into a Cloverleaf for the submission win.

WINNER: Richards via submission in 13:00. Richards sure gave Stevens a lot of offense and key moments countering his signature offense as the #1 contender leading to an ROH Title match at Final Battle. It helped elevate Stevens in defeat and, at the end of the day, showed off Davey's toughness and resiliency heading into the ROH Title match at Final Battle. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2010, 10:49 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_45928.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. JTG

Striker said JTG will have to deal with the "quick, street style" of JTG. Reks informed pre-PPV announcer guy that he believes JTG is just average. On the other hand, Reks believes he is a "future main eventer" in WWE. Reks focused on JTG's back early on as Striker held the audience by the hand to walk viewers through the basics of a heel trying to slow down the action to focus on a body part. JTG made a comeback with some unconvincing offense before he pulled out a pair of fuzzy dice. JTG chucked the dice into the stands, then hit the Mug Shot for a two count. Reks then threw JTG off the second rope and got that look in his eyes before delivering the Burning Hammer for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Reks in 4:00. About as basic as it gets from the in-ring moves to the commentary to the formula match to getting over a heel's dominating finishing move. (*)

2 -- CURT HAWKINS vs. TRENT BARRETA

Hawkins was mic'ed for sound talking trash to Barreta after the opening bell. Barreta had enough and slapped Hawkins across the face to jumpstart the third match in the recent even-steven series of matches on Superstars. Barreta controlled the action with a side headlock trying to frustrate Hawkins. They came to their feet and nearly botched a Frankensteiner attempt mid-ring. Barreta then calmly re-applied a headlock. Korpela suggested they could be watching the future of WWE. Suddenly, Hawkins flung Barreta over the top rope to the floor, with Barreta selling that he smashed his head into the ring steps. They cut to break with Hawkins catching his breath in the ring.

Back from break, Hawkins was working on Barreta, who came back with an enziguiri kick that stunned Hawkins. Barreta followed with a kick strike to the face, but Hawkins kicked out in time. Barreta tried a suplex, but Hawkins blocked. Korpela said it was a "tremendous" block, which drew a question from Striker. Barreta then knocked Hawkins to the floor and followed with a springboard twisting somersault splash on Hawkins. The announcers noted the high-risk nature of the move, which led to a nearfall back in the ring. Hawkins then blocked a Dudebuster DDT, Barreta blocked the Taste of Pain, and Barreta came back with a Tornado DDT for the pin and the win. Kids in the crowd were shown pumping their fists in excitement over this outcome.

WINNER: Barreta in 12:00. WWE obviously sees something in Barreta since they kept him and cut his partner, Caylen Croft. It's a good call to invest in Barreta, who could develop into a marketable babyface. Hawkins is still finding himself in the ring, but he definitely showed something on commentary last week. Both wrestlers have something tangible to offer WWE; they just need an opportunity on Smackdown. (**)

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Ryder quickly grabbed a headlock, but Jackson flung him across the ring. Asked what a wrestler can do to combat Jackson, Punk suggested throwing a fireball in his face. Stanford wondered why Ryder continues to sign on for matches against Jackson, who began punishing Ryder. Jackson said he had this one, but Ryder slipped out of a suplex and raked Jackson across the eyes. Ryder followed with a dropkick for a nearfall, then delivered a knee drop for a one count. Zeke began no-selling as Ryder went to the second rope, which turned into Jackson clubbing Ryder in mid-air. Jackson warmed up a big clothesline, then nailed his Book of Ezekiel finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Jackson in 4:00. Ryder was allowed to showcase some offense and he received a full ring intro, so that's a victory for Ryder this week. Meanwhile, Jackson continues to dominate as WWE tries to find a slot for him on Raw.

4 -- EVE vs. ALICIA FOX

Basic start with Eve scoring early offense before Fox cut her off and applied a reverse chinlock. Eve fought out with elbows, then found herself suspended in mid-air on Alicia's back. They awkwardly crashed to the mat with Alicia scoring a backbreaker across her knee for a two count. Eve then snapped off a series of dropkicks, but Fox caught her off-guard with a Northern Lights suplex with a bridge for a two count. Eve came back with a neckbreaker after countering a suplex, then went up top to execute a moonsault. It was good for the pin and the win. After a replay of the high points of the match, Eve celebrated in the ring to close out the show.

WINNER: Eve in 5:00. Fine showcase for the Raw Divas in the TV main event. They were off on a few moves, but overall worked hard to deliver a good match with a nice exchange of offense. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2010, 10:53 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-9-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_45926.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BROTHER RAY & "BROTHER DEVON" vs. INK INC.

During ring intros, Ray made Devon walk about ten steps behind him. Ink Inc. brought chains to the ring, and those always sound like fingernails on a chalkboard with the mics. Ray told the New Devon what to do move-by-move. Taz said he's one of his green students. Neal hot-tagged in at 2:00 and went on a flurry against New Devon. Ray broke up the pin attempt by Neal, then tagged in and went on offense on Neal. The New Devon did the top rope diving headbutt on Neal between his legs. He then went into Original Devon's mannerisms. Ray told New Devon to get the tables. The crowd didn't chant along with him this time. New Devon slid in a table. Ray and Devon set it up, but Moore and Neal recovered in the mean time and speared Ray and New Devon. Moore then gave New Devon a Mooregasm off the top rope for the win. Ray looked around upset with the result.

WINNERS: Ink Inc. in 4:00.

-Afterward Ray attacked New Devon with a kick to the back of his head. He then put him through a table. Original Devon's new music played and ran to the ring. Ray bailed out and hid behind So Cal Val.

2 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS vs. GUNNER & MURPHY

Gunner and Murphy arrived with night sticks. After the Guns entered the ring, Beer Money distracted them on the entrance stage. That gave Gunner and Murphy an opening to jump them before the bell. Beer Money joined Tenay and Taz on commentary. Storm asked: "What do you call a woman with only two front teeth? A bottle opener." He laughed at his own joke. Taz complimented Beer Money for hiring two goons like Gunner & Murphy to soften the Guns. Storm said the Guns are boys in a men's world holding their belts. He made fun of them for playing their game consoles or Nintendos. Gunner and Murphy were DQ'd for using a night stick. The Guns grabbed the sticks and used them to beat down the thugs. The Guns stared down Storm and Roode from the ring.

WINNERS: Machine Guns in 3:00.

3 -- SARITA & DAFFNEY vs. ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Title Tournament

Taz declared, "Let the pigeons loose!" When Sky rubbed her crotch against the middle rope, Taz said he's never been so envious and he'd like to know where he can sign up to be a middle rope. Sarita said every time Sky gets in trouble, she runs back to Love. She butted her chest against her and said she can't do it alone. She asked when she would grow herself a set. Love tackled her to the mat to jump-start the match. At 3:00 both Daffney and Love tagged into the match. A minute later Love scored the clean pin.

WINNERS: Love & Sky in 4:00.

-Afterward Sarita said at the end of the day Sky still didn't beat her and she never will because she's a loser. Sky huffed and puffed and fumed. Tenay said Sarita got in Sky's head.

4 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. ABYSS -- TV Title Match

Williams did his head bob, which always makes my day. He proudly wore his newly won TV Title around his waist on his way to the ring. In the end, Abyss blocked a Rolling Chaos attempt and then tore the turnbuckle pad off the corner and attempted to crash into Williams. Williams moved and Abyss hit the exposed buckle. Williams then schoolboyed Abyss for the clean win.

WINNER: Williams in 4:00.

STAR RATING: 1/2* -- Not a lot to the match. Has Abyss forgotten how to work a good match without weapons?

-Afterward Styles attacked Williams on the ramp. He gave Williams the Styles Clash on the stage. Styles then leaned over and trash-talked Williams for stealing his belt and his finishing move.

5 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TARA -- Cage Match

They fought in the cage for a few seconds and then cut to an early break. Okay, now there's just two minutes left in the second hour, so this rating won't be so telling after all since that's two commercial breaks in this segment. To pop a big rating, they needed to get the commercials out of the way. So much for TNA not interrupting matches in progress.

At 9:00 Tara met Mickie on the top rope and went for a powerbomb. They slipped and ended up with an awkward execution. Taz called it "ugly." Tara landed on her hip. Mickie landed on her back. That could have been way worse. Tara beat down Mickie for a minute and tried to escape through the cage, but Mickie stopped her. Tenay officially signed off Impact and they immediately began Reaction after just a split second of a black screen.

REACTION

Taz said it's disturbing to see two women beat each other into steel like this. Mickie climbed to the top of the cage and his a Thesz Press on Tara for the clean win.

WINNER: Mickie in 14:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Some good intensity, but mixed results on the athleticism and big spots. Tough to rate this one as the novelty of a women's cage match did carry it a little bit.

-Afterward Tara sold being totally out of it. Mickie got up on one leg, unable to put pressure on one of her legs. Tenay said nothing stands in the way of Mickie achieving her goal of becoming TNA Knockouts Champion.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 12 2010, 01:08 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-10-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45949.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KAVAL

Kaval gave a double-boot to the chest of Swagger, then got a near-fall from a kick to the chest. Swagger had Kaval up for an electric chair, then threw him off in front of him, and Kaval came up lame. The ref gave Kaval room to try to get to his feet. Swagger picked Kaval up by the foot and almost flipped him on his head, but Kaval was able to come down on his leg to continue selling it. Kaval chopped Swagger in the corner, to give him some breathing room. He fought out of a gutwrench powerbomb, and both men ended up on the mat. Kaval surprised Swagger with a kick to the face, then one to the chest. Kaval continued with kicks, all the while selling the left ankle. Kaval got a good pop coming out, but the fans haven’t really been into him during the match. Cover after a knee to the temple got Kaval a two-count. Kaval tried to go to the top with Swagger flat on the mat, but Swagger took out his leg with Kaval on the apron. Back in the ring, the ankle-lock was immediately applied, and Kaval fought it for as long as he could, but ended up tapping.

WINNER: Swagger, at 5:24. Another loss for Kaval, but he showed good fight with an injury within the match, so he certainly didn’t lose much heat.

2 – HORNSWOGGLE vs. THE SOARING EAGLE

Hornswoggle was accompanied by Rosa Mendes. Justin Roberts was doing ring intros instead of Tony Chimel, and he announced the Eagle’s wingspan. They chyron simply read “The Eagle,” while Roberts announced him as the Soaring Eagle. Cole said this was a PG show and Hornswoggle couldn’t “flip the bird.” Mendes handed Horny a paper bag that read “Acme Birdseed.” Striker noted that Acme was spelled wrong (AKME on the bag) and Mathews said Acme was probably copyrighted. Hornswoggle knocked the bird down after distracting him with birdseed. He got a napkin, put salt on the leg and bit the bird. He then rode him on his back until the eagle kicked Horny. Cole was vociferous in his support for the eagle. He kicked at Horny and missed MVP’s Ballin’ elbowdrop. Horny to the top, Tadpole Splash, which finished it.

WINNER: Hornswoggle, at 2:18. The only worthwhile thing here was the commentary, which was well into NXT Season 3 commentary territory.

3 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Kingston went for a few quick roll-ups. Ziggler stopped him and went on the offensive, attempting to keep Kingston grounded. Crowd was into Kofi early on. Kofi countered a clothesline into a monkey flip. Off the ropes, forearm to the face. Trouble in Paradise attempt, but Ziggler rolled out of the way and out of the ring. He and his main squeeze, Vickie Guerrero, had a pow-wow outside the ring as they went to break.

The show resumed with Ziggler holding Kingston on the mat with a rear chinlock. High dropkick from Ziggler for a two-count. High elbowdrop, another two-count. When Kofi tried to come back, Ziggler gave him a swinging neck-breaker. Back to the headlock from Ziggler. Kingston got back to a vertical base and monkey-flipped Ziggler into the corner. Kofi got to his feet first and nailed Ziggler with a couple chops and a dropkick. Boom Drop attempt, But Ziggler got out of the way. Kofi missed a corner splash, but he hit Ziggler with the corner flip kick. Dropkick off the top by Kingston. Vickie got on the apron briefly to distract the ref and Kofi, leading to Ziggler getting out of the pin. Small package by Ziggler for two. He got to his feet and landed a big front kick. Kingston knocked Ziggler off the second rope and landed a cross-body from the top. Mathews proclaimed Kingston as new IC Champ so of course, Dolph kicked out. Ziggler countered a suplex with a sleeper hold. Kingston was sent into the corner, but Kofi surprised Dolph with a Trouble in Paradise that caught Dolph in the shoulder or back. As he went for the pin, Jack Swagger ran in to break up the pin.

WINNER: Kingston, via DQ, at 12:44. Three-way IC Title match at TLC? The usual Kingston vs. Ziggler match, which is not bad, but Ziggler’s offense is a bit too methodic at times.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & DREW MCINTYRE

Arm-lock take-over, but Santino got too cocky and walked into a punch by Drew. Kozlov tagged in and he and Drew traded offense. We’ve got an Italian, Russian, Mexican and a Scotsman in this match. Chavo cheated to help his team keep Kozlov at bay. Santino tried to tag in, but almost ate it as he was leaning too far over the top rope. That was funny. Marella tagged in and so did McIntyre. Hip-toss and he went for his headbutt, but McIntyre got his boot up. Drew lined up for a DDT, but Chavo tagged himself in. Chavo then missed the frogsplash and Santino gave the cobra to him, then rolled him up for the win.

WINNERS: Marella and Kozlov, at 3:09. Pure comedy match with the new champs now able to go to Smackdown.

5 – LAYLA vs. NATALYA

Natalya evened the odds by bringing Beth Phoenix out to second her for this match. Single-leg take-down and roll-up, nicely done by Layla. Standing suplex and squat by Natalya. Layla rolled out of the ring afer that one. Natalya pushed McCool down and Layla kicked Natalya to the ground. Beth helped her up and kept McCool at a distance. Nattie slammed Layla into the corner, and the two connected on a double dropkick. Dropkick was caught by Nattie and she tried a Sharpshooter. McCool grabbed Layla by the hand, and Natalya dragged Layla across the ring while in the move, which brought McCool into the ring. Beth peeled McCool off Layla and Layla submitted.

WINNER: Natalya, at 2:02. Better-than-average two-minute Divas TV match. Layla has really improved, and it’s especially noticeable against a good woman wrestler like Natalya Neidhart.

6 – REY MYSTERIO & EDGE vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & KANE

Before the match began, Teddy Long walked out onto the stage, as Kane did not show up. Long said this would be a handicap match. Mysterio started with Del Rio. Legdrop and cover got two from Rey. Shoulder into the corner by Edge, then a dropkick from Rey. Del Rio fired back with elbows to the back of Edge’s head. Flapjack by Edge and a tag to Rey, who splashed Del Rio with an assist from Edge. Both Mysterio and Del Rio sporting the gold look tonight. Del Rio was sent to ringside right in front of the announce table. Finally, Kane showed up. Edge met him in the aisle and the two brawled briefly, until Edge went backstage. Kane followed. Rey was distracted by this, and Del Rio took advantage. Gutbuster by Del Rio for a two-count. Body-scissors applied by Del Rio as the crowd chanted “619.” Enziguiri by Del Rio knocked Mysterio off the apron. Alberto rolled to the outside and kicked Rey in the gut. He bounced Rey’s head off the announce desk as Ricardo Rodriguez directed traffic at ringside. Perched on the top rope, Del Rio went to suplex Rey off. Instead, Rey knocked Del Rio off. Seated senton by Mysterio, then a bulldog. Del Rio came back with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Mysterio landed the 619, to the delight of the crowd. Splash of the top rope sealed the win for Rey Rey’s team.

WINNERS: Edge and Mysterio, at 7:10.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 15 2010, 12:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-13-10 (Part 1)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_46017.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results. Slammy Awards list courtesy of WWE.com (direct link to WWE Slammy page). (http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/slammyawards10/)

1 -- WADE BARRETT vs. BIG SHOW

Barrett stalled for the first 1:30 of the match before entering the ring and accepting a huge chop across the chest. Barrett sold in the corner, then lured Show into an eye-rake. Show started throwing errant right hands, so Barrett began stomping and kicking toward Show. The crowd rallied with a loud "Cena, Cena" chant, then Show knocked Barrett to the outside and delivered another huge chop to the chest. Show chased Barrett back into the ring, but Barrett rolled out of the ring, grabbed his Slammy, and went home. Barrett disappeared to the back and Show was declared the winner.

WINNER: Big Show via count-out at 3:45. WWE didn't give away much in the ring, but the idea of just giving away Show vs. Barrett with no advanced notice is inefficient when the talent pool is so limited to create compelling match-ups. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/the Bellas) & KOFI KINGSTON vs. IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse)

The action was joined in progress with Bryan locked in a headlock. Punk was back on commentary with Cole and Lawler as Bryan fought back to his feet. Cole asked Punk who he was sending a message to, but Punk turned his attention to the ring. Cole noted some of the Slammy Awards were already handed out on WWE's website earlier today. The heels continued to work over Bryan while Vickie and Maryse jockeyed for position ringside looking for the most camera time. The Bellas tried to rally behind Bryan, who collided with DiBiase mid-ring.

DiBiase rolled to the floor, then Kofi tagged in. Ziggler entered to feed Kofi, who was looking around for someone to attack. Kofi landed the Boom Drop on Ziggler before nailing Trouble in Paradise. Kofi made a cover and DiBiase appeared to break it up, but the ref counted a quick three count for Kofi anyways. The Bellas celebrated with Bryan while Maryse sold shock and disappointment ringside.

WINNERS: Bryan & Kofi at 3:07 of what aired. Not enough time given to a match featuring what should be the novelty of Raw and Smackdown wrestlers mixed together. There were just too many people involved in-ring and out-of-the-ring for anyone to stand out. WWE needs to rebuild the brand split to the point of it generating a reaction on the level of a TNA wrestler hypothetically appearing on Raw...or just get rid of the brand split altogether. (*)

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. CODY RHODES

Rhodes tried to duck under the ropes to avoid Henry, who then clotheslined him and tried to rearrange his face. Rhodes started screaming at Henry, who smiled. Punk said some people think Rhodes is soft because he's concerned about his face, but he has a mean streak. Rhodes showed it off by dropping Henry with a drop toehold before stomping and kicking away at him. Henry recovered and made a comeback with a big corner splash. Rhodes avoided a second splash and nailed the Disaster Kick to floor Henry. Rhodes then dropped a knee to the upper back region from the second rope. Rhodes made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes at 2:48. Henry's stock falling or Rhodes's stick rising? Or, another Raw vs. Smackdown give-away that won't mean anything? (*)

4 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley and David Arquette) vs. REY MYSTERIO -- non-title match

The action quickly moved to the floor as Cole plugged Rey having his own PPV match against Alberto Del Rio at the PPV. They cut to a break 35 seconds into the match with Rey in control.

Back in the ring, Rey broke free from a chinlock. Rey tried a wheelbarrow move, but they botched the move and kind of fell to the mat. Miz and Rey recovered, then Rey set up the 619, but Alberto Del Rio's music interrupted. The distraction allowed Miz to smash Rey into the ring apron for a two count. Up top, Miz teased a superplex, but Rey knocked him to the mat and landed a sentaun followed by a cross-body splash for a two count. Rey then set up the 619 again and confusion ensued with Del Rio and Riley interfering, but Rey scored a two count on a pin attempt. Rey set up the 619 again. This time, the interference worked and Miz was able to roll up Rey for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Miz at 7:05. The botched spot, interference, and Del Rio's scarf will probably be most remembered from this match-up. The crowd was hot for Rey, which was good for the TV presentation. (*1/2)

Post-match: Rey chased Del Rio to the back while Miz, Riley, and Arquette celebrated in the ring. Miz heldup the WWE Title belt, but the GM interrupted. Cole apologized for interrupting Miz's celebration before announcing Orton will be in a handicap match tonight against Alex Riley and his partner...former WCW World Hvt. champion David Arquette. Riley was stunned. Arquette sold excitement. "That is a handicap match if I ever heard one," Punk said.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 15 2010, 12:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-13-10 (Part 2)

5 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. SHEAMUS

They went after each other before the bell sounded and maintained an aggressive tone to the match. The referee tried to separate them, but they continued to fight in the ropes. The ref called for the bell, throwing out the match.

WINNER: Double DQ at 0:33.

Post-match: more referees intervened to separate the two men before the crowd chanted, "Let them fight." The Raw GM interrupted again. Cole read that Sheamus and Morrison can't settle their issue tonight, so he (or she) is raising the stakes. The winner of the match at TLC will become the new #1 contender to the WWE Title. The winner will be the man who retrieves a contract suspended above the ring...in a ladder match. Morrison smiled, then Sheamus blind-sided him. Sheamus knocked over Morrison, then screamed at Cole that he should already be #1 contender. Sheamus removed the ladder and jabbed Morrison with it when Morrison came to his feet. Then, Sheamus delivered a boot to the head as referees tried to get Sheamus to back off. Sheamus proceeded to chuck Morrison over the top rope onto the ladder and Morrison writhed in pain selling his back as Sheamus stood tall in the ring.

6 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- Winner is Diva of the Year

Back from break to begin the ultra-important top of the 10:00 p.m. EST hour, Lay-Cool were still celebrating with their Slammy in the ring. A parade of Divas came to the ring for the battle royal. They all circled around Layla and McCool, who threw the first blow and set off a brawl. NXT3 winner Kaitlyn was the first one out. More Divas started exiting as they pared the field down to the relevant competitors. Kelly took a hard spill on the way out. Beth then gave Melina the Glam Slam onto the top rope to eliminate her. Layla was eliminated by Beth, then distracted Beth to get her eliminated. Natalya cleared multiple Divas on the other side of the ring, then McCool surprised Natalya by eliminating her.

WINNER: McCool at 3:30. I will be very surprised if someone was not injured during that match. Of note, no hint of a Melina heel turn.

Post-match: Lay-Cool celebrated McCool winning Diva of the Year. Suddenly, the very busy Raw GM buzzed in. Cole read that Lay-Cool will meet Natalya and Beth Phoenix at TLC in the first-ever Divas tag team tables match. Lay-Cool sold shock and disbelief while Beth and Natalya smiled. Two tables matches on the same PPV?

7 -- EDGE vs. JACK SWAGGER

Cole announced Smackdown GM Long has booked Swagger vs. Kofi vs. Ziggler in a three-way ladder match for the IC Title at TLC. Two ladder matches on the same PPV? Swagger dominated early on as the announcers tried to plug all of the new TLC matches announced tonight. Swagger shouted at the crowd after scoring a handful of nearfalls. He tried to put away Edge, but Edge came back with an inverted drop. Edge built momentum and landed a knock-down clothesline for a two count. Cole labeled this standard one-on-one match a "traditional match," as if it's a dated concept compared to the over-gimmicked TLC matches. Swagger tried the Anklelock at 4:00, but Edge blocked. Swagger teased the gutwrench, but Edge countered with a lift-up DDT. Edge then got that look in his eyes wanting the Spear as the crowd came to life. He measured Swagger and dropped him clean with the Spear for the win. Punk posed the question of whether Edge will be the new World champion on Sunday.

WINNER: Edge at 4:45. This is where a squash match would have easily accomplished the task of getting over Edge, his finisher, and his quest for the World Title without sacrificing Swagger, who's challenging for the IC Title on Sunday. (*1/2)

8 -- RANDY ORTON vs. ALEX RILEY & DAVID ARQUETTE (w/WWE champion The Miz)

Orton and Riley started things off. Orton landed a big knock-down clothesline, then stared a hole into Arquette. Riley suddenly gained control, then Arquette excitedly tagged in. DQ landed a sledgehammer to the back, but Orton popped up and no-sold. He landed a kick to the gut, then went into RKO mode. Arquette crapped his pants and quickly tagged out. Lawler cracked a joke about "Ready to Rumble," but Cole talked it up. Riley gained control on Orton, then Arquette choked Orton in the corner behind the ref's back. Orton made a comeback and stalked Riley for the RKO. He connected and made the cover, which was good for a three count.

Post-match: Miz immediately smashed Orton with the MITB briefcase that continues to be present for the third straight week despite Miz having to physically cash in the briefcase. Anyways, Miz brought a table into the ring. He tried to hook up with Arquette on a suplex through the table on Orton, but Orton blocked. Orton cleared Miz, but Arquette was stuck in the ring. Orton realized the opportunity he had and he proceeded to powerbomb Arquette through the table. That was a vicious-looking powerbomb. Orton had a little spit coming from his mouth to sell his intensity. He then stared down Miz, who sold that he was unfazed ringside. Orton celebrated in the ring and medics stormed the ring to give Arquette medical attention to sell the bomb.

WINNER: Orton at 3:24. I can't believe Arquette was back in a wrestling ring in 2010. Overall, decent final build-up for Miz vs. Orton, who went through the "mini-bosses" of Riley last week and Arquette this week leading to Miz at TLC. Selling PPVs will require a macro overhaul for WWE that one week of decent build-up won't be able to overcome. It's a culture and mindset that WWE has created. (*)

9 -- DAVID OTUNGA vs. JOHN CENA

The bell sounded seven minutes past the top of the hour with Cena delivering a quick beat down on Otunga. Cena put a serious look on his face before delivering a clothesline. Otunga then blocked a corner attack and started landing right hand blows. Otunga followed with a back elbow smash for a one count. Out of nowhere, Cena came back with the STF and Otunga was forced to tap out. Sometime during this, Barrett made his way back on the stage to take a seat to watch.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 1:44.

Post-match: Cena brought a chair back in the ring. Cena smashed Otunga across the back while Barrett simply watched from the stage. Otunga reached out for Barrett, but no help was coming as Cena cracked the chair over Otunga's back again. Cena pointed toward Barrett to tell him this will be him on Sunday. Barrett shook his head no. Cena then measured Otunga for another chair shot to the back, then multiple shots to the legs. Otunga rolled to the outside and Cena fired himself up. Barrett shook his head before holding up his chair to say his is bigger than Cena's. Cole tried to give that final sales pitch for TLC that only Jim Ross can nail as they went to a final camera shot of Cena standing tall in the ring. They went off the air 11 minutes past the hour.

Superstar of the Year Winner: John Cena
Diva of the Year Winner: Michelle McCool
WWE Moment of the Year Winner: The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XXVI
"Oh Snap" Meltdown of the Year Winner: Edge destroys the anonymous GM's computer
Shocker of the Year Winner: The Nexus debuts
Despicable Me Award Winner: CM Punk sings "Happy Birthday" to Rey Mysterio's daughter
Holy %&^*%&* Move of the Year Winner: John Cena's Attitude Adjustment on Batista through the stage
Guest Star Shining Moment Winner: Pee-wee Herman vs. The Miz
Knucklehead Moment of the Year Winner: Lay-Cool gets beat by Mae Young
WWE Universe Fan Reaction Winner: "Angry Miz Girl" Cayley
"And I Quote ..." Line of the Year Winner: Michael Cole
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2010, 11:04 am
The wrestling results from the week of 12-13-10 including the WWE TLC PPV can be found at my TOKYOPOP Wrestling Blog (link under my signature picture) or at PWTorch.com (lots of pop-up).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2010, 11:06 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-20-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_46209.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MELINA vs. ALICIA FOX vs. EVE -- #1 contender match to the Divas Title

Melina came out first for the triple threat #1 contender match to the Divas Title. Alicia Fox, then Eve came out to round out the field. After some sequences of one Diva being dumped out of the ring on a rotational basis to set up one-on-one action, the Divas traded pinning sequences in the ring. Melina and Eve started trading aggressive shots before Melina suddenly countered a Doomsday Device attempt into a victory roll on Alicia for the pin. She gets the next shot at Natalya. Post-match: Melina sold excitement over getting another title shot. Natalya entered the ring to congratulate her, but Melina slapped her across the face, scowled, and stomped out of the ring for an abrupt heel turn. Natalya sold shock in the ring.

WINNER: Melina at 2:54. It's apparent why they did not air the "Tribute to the Troops" Divas match on the NBC special since Melina was set to turn heel on tonight's Raw prior to the extended, two-hour version airing on Wednesday night where she'll team with heel Divas. It creates an issue for Natalya and Melina to build some momentum for the women's division. (*1/4)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Bella Twins) vs. WILLIAM REGAL -- non-title match

Lawler sold excitement over seeing this match as the two men locked up and traded holds. Regal backed away to the corner as they continued to feel each other. Punk cut off Lawler talking about Cena as the two men in the ring traded blows. Bryan landed multiple kick strikes to the mid-section in the corner before flipping over Regal, who came back with a big running fist to the forehead for a nearfall. Regal then applied a neck vice and Bryan attempted a suplex, but Regal maintained the vice grip. Regal followed with knee strikes for a nearfall as the announcers debated Bryan's social skills. Oh, how Ross is missed calling a match like this.

Bryan fought back to his feet and they started trading European uppercuts. The crowd did the boo/yay to follow along. Regal cut off Bryan with an uppercut to the gut, followed by a forearm to the back of the head. Regal wanted the Regal Stretch, but Bryan blocked. Bryan also blocked a butterfly suplex and slipped Regal to his mid-section. He wanted the LeBell Lock, but Regal fought it, so Bryan landed signature elbows to the head/neck region. Bryan then fully applied the LeBell Lock and it was good for a submission victory.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 4:30. It is well with my soul. Could WWE put a "1" before the 4:30 and put this on PPV? Just an excellent five-minute wrestling exchange. It creates an interesting question of whether it's the beginning of a program for Bryan and Regal or simply Regal being able to say he wrestled Bryan on live TV once in his career before retiring. (**1/4)

3 -- WWE tag champion SANTINO & TAMINA vs. TED DIBIASE & MARYSE

The bell sounded and Tamina squeezed Santino to crack his back into place. Punk noted the Divas are smart, sexy, powerful, and chiropractors. Santino and DiBiase traded offense early on before DiBiase worked on Santino's back. Santino made an inspired comeback before calling for the Cobra. DiBiase tagged out to Maryse, though. Santino suddenly stopped short when he realized a woman was in the ring and he could not deliver the Cobra to Maryse. Maryse shot the Cobra back into Santino's throat, but Tamina blindsided Maryse with a superkick.

Tamina did a long routine setting up a top-rope move as DiBiase and Santino did a comedy routine knocking themselves over the top rope to the floor. Maryse had to sell for a long time before Tamina executed a textbook Superfly Splash for the win. Tamina then helped Santino out of the ring as the crowd applauded their efforts. Tamina comically tried to carry Santino up the ramp, but had to stop halfway up the ramp.

WINNERS: Santino & Tamina at 2:52. More of that Santino Comedy giving the crowd some light entertainment fare. The heels aren't threatening, but the crowd knows enough about their characters to enjoy a good, hearty laugh when they're the butt of the joke. (*)

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Cole complained to Lawler about doing fat jokes and Lawler justified it. Cole then complained to Lawler about trying to make himself "the show" again by getting the main event. Punk shot back that Cole came out here dressed like Ebenezer Scrooge. Cole was quiet. The crowd went after Vickie early on, so the wrestlers paused before locking up to begin the match.

The match picked up with Ziggler taking control of the action as the crowd did a loud dueling chant. Ziggler couldn't capitalize on a series of right hand punches and Cena came back with a gutwrench suplex for a nearfall. Ziggler then punted Cena in the face after being shot off the ropes and applied a modified Crossface. The two men traded instructions in the hold and Cena came to his feet. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Ziggler came back with a face jam for a two count. They cut to break, giving Cena, Ziggler, and Vickie a big three-segment spotlight tonight in front of a hot crowd.

Back from break, Cena and Ziggler were trading right hand blows. Cena then hit a sidewalk slam as the crowd cheered on Cena. Both men came to their feet before hitting a double knock-down clothesline. Vickie screamed at Ziggler to get up while the referee applied a ten count. Ziggler was up first and delivered a jawbreaker for a two count. Vickie screamed and stomped up and down to sell anger. Ziggler then hit a big dropkick for another nearfall. Punk noted Ziggler's aggressiveness in the match and both men likely aching after the TLC PPV last night.

Cena and Ziggler talked across the ring, then Cena fired up the Cena Comeback Routine. "This here...is vintage John Cena," Cole predictably said. Cena hit the Five Knuckle Shuffle before looking for the Attittude Adjustment. Ziggler elbowed out, though, and slapped on a sleeper. Cena escaped, then applied the STF. Ziggler fought the hold, Vickie distracted the referee, and Ziggler tapped out. Cena thought he won, but the ref said he didn't see it. Ziggler tried to capitalize with the Zig-Zag, but Cena kicked out. Finsih time. Ziggler removed the top turnbuckle pad, the ref was distracted trying to replace it, Ziggler took the IC Title belt, Cena ducked the shot, and Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment for the pin and the win as the crowd exploded.

WINNER: Cena at 13:23. This turned into the Cena-Dolph-Vickie show for about 30 minutes and it made for some very good TV playing to the audience. The match was good with an extended Cena singles formula match and a hot crowd buying into the action. As for the post-match, a Cena vs. Punk feud appears to be one way to bridge the gap between TLC and the Rumble. (**1/2)

5 -- RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON & JERRY LAWLER vs. WWE champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY & SHEAMUS

Each team jockeyed for position looking at the match-ups to see who should start things off. They teased Miz vs. Orton, but Miz tagged out to Riley. Orton quickly took control on Riley before tagging in Morrison, who pounded on Riley. Morrison landed some hard European uppercuts before tagging in Lawler. Lawler with a boot to the gut, then a dropkick. Yes, a dropkick from Lawler. Cole heeled on Lawler "putting himself in the spotlight" as Mathews said it's the pot calling the kettle black. Miz tagged in for the heels, then Orton tagged in, and Miz ran away wanting nothing to do with Orton. Sheamus accepted Miz's desperation tag, then slowly entered the ring to circle around Orton. They cut to break.

Back live, the heels were working over Lawler trying to use a numbers game to their advantage. Lawler eventually broke free from Sheamus and tagged in Morrison, who sold the left knee injury after a corner attack. Morrison tried to fight it off before nailing the Flying Chuck. Morrison tried to finish off Sheamus with Starship Pain, but Sheamus cut him off and Morrison ate the middle turnbuckle. The heels began working over Morrison's left knee and cut off a few attempted hot tags to either Lawler or Orton. The crowd bought each of the teases, building anticipation for the big hot tag to Orton at 13:00. Miz also tagged in and he was trapped having to face Orton. Orton went nuts on Miz with a snap powerslam and an Angle Slam. Orton followed with the elevated spike DDT off the second rope for a nearfall.

The action broke down with bodies starting to fly. Orton stalked Miz for the RKO, but Riley snuck in, so he took the RKO. Miz then blindsided Orton with a kick that sent Orton flying to the corner. Lawler blind-tagged in and Miz nearly dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale, but Orton caught Miz from behind with the RKO with the ref preoccupied with Riley. Lawler then pinned Miz and Mathews noted Lawler has pinned the WWE champion. Orton and Lawler celebrated in the ring together as Cole said he can't believe this.

WINNERS: Team Lawler at 14:18. One of those traditional Raw six-man tag main events where the faces get revenge on the heels for past wrongdoings. Lawler got his "win" on Miz for Raw three weeks ago, Orton got a measure of revenge on Miz with an RKO for TLC last night, and they kept something for Smackdown tomorrow night with Orton getting Miz one-on-one again. Fine action that overall served its purpose. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2010, 11:06 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_46238.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. RANDY ORTON

Cole said Miz is the "most must-see WWE Champion ever." Loud chants for "Randy" in the opening minute. Miz bailed out and ran from Orton, who chased him back into the ring and then took him down with a Thesz Press and a full mount with a barrage of punches. Miz again bailed out after a kick. Orton met him on the floor and threw him into the security wall twice, then flattened him with a clothesline. He then turned to "The Apprentice" Alex Riley, who backed off. Miz dropped off the ring apron and snapped Orton's neck over the top rope at 2:00 and then gave him a boot to the face for a two count. Miz got frustrated after a couple more two counts. Orton then took over with punches and a backbreaker at 4:00. At 5:00 Riley yanked Orton off the ring apron and he fell head-first into the edge of the ring apron. Miz then whipped Orton into the ringside steps. They cut to a break.

Orton knocked Miz off balance on the top rope, then superplex him at 10:00. Miz showed some fight, but Orton stayed on offense. Cole said Orton is more aggressive than he's seen him in recent weeks with "emotion pouring out of his veins." A minute later Miz countered an Orton clothesline with a neckbreaker for a two count at 11:00. Orton came back seconds later with a high dropkick for another two count. Riley distracted Orton leading to a Miz comebackat 12:00. Miz struck with a DDT for a two count. Orton then came back and pounded the mat. Riley against jumped on the ring apron, but Orton turned to punch him and then turned back with an RKO. As Orton went for the cover, Riley interfered and stopped the count. The ref DQ'd Miz.

WINNER: Orton in 14:00.

STAR RATING: ***1/4 -- Really good action. The DQ finish, perhaps a necessary evil at this point, was a letdown after such a good, emotionally-charged match. It's good for Miz to be in that type of match with Orton, even if he did rely on cheating to avoid getting pinned. It's also a good start to Smackdown, but very different from how WWE opens Raw most often.

2 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Vladimir Kozlov) vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Cole and Matthews argued over whether Santino was out of line for looking for some action on Smackdown. Matthews defended Santino, saying "don't hate the player, hate the game." At 3:00 Santino hit the Cobra and schoolboy for the win. Cole said, "Maybe Santino should have pulled the cobra out for Beth." Striker found that funny.

WINNER: Santino in 3:00.

3 -- KAVAL vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Drew attacked Kaval just as he somersaulted into the ring. The ref asked Kaval if he was willing and able to fight. Kaval said yes, but he was still almost out of it. Drew finished him with the Future Shock DDT seconds later.

WINNER: Drew in about 20 seconds.

4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO & JACK SWAGGER vs. REY MYSTERIO & KOFI KINGSTON

At 2:00 Swagger broke up a pin by Kofi on Del Rio. Del Rio tried to jump at Kofi, but Kofi ducked and he flew through the ropes to the floor. Swagger followed behind. With both heels down, Kofi and Rey leaped off the top rope and landed bodyblocks on the floor. They cut to a break at 3:00.

Back from the break Del Rio had Rey in a headlock. Cole pushed the fact that these wrestlers were all competing just two days after putting their careers on the line at TLC. Nice to see that being stressed, unlike last night on Raw. Kofi hot-tagged in at 8:00, bunt Swagger cut him off with a boot to the face. Rey hot-tagged in at 11:00 and gave Del Rio a DDT for a two count. Swagger tagged in and took over offense against Rey. Rey fought back with a 619 set-up on Swagger. When Del Rio entered, Ray set him for it, too, but Del Rio moved. Rey hit Swagger and then knocked Del Rio to the flor. Kofi hit the Trouble in Paradise and then Rey landed a springboard splash for the win.

WINNERS: Rey & Kofi in 14:00.

STAR RATING: **3/4 -- Good high-energy tag match with some nice athleticism from Rey and Kofi. Matthews touted it as the type of high-flying action you'll only see on Smackdown.

5 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER & VICKIE GUERRERO vs. JOHN CENA

Striker said Vickie has the face of Adrian Barbeau and the body of Adrian Adonis. Before the match began, Ziggler had to talk Vickie out of going after Cena and then grab her. Cole said she's crazy. He said it's not the first time she was made fun of. Striker said it won't be the last. Cena leapfrogged Ziggler in the first exchange, then settled into a chinlock. Cole said it's been a while since Cena did a leapfrog, which is evidence now of him having a spring in his step. Ziggler took control after a Vickie distraction. Vickie tagged herself in at 2:00. Ziggler didn't approve, but threw his hands up. Vickie stepped on Cena's face and made some hideous faces. Cole said it looks like a cow stepping on his face. Ziggler tagged himself back in. He went back to punching Cena's head. Cena teased an Attitude Adjustment out of nowhere, but Ziggler escaped easily and DDT'd him for a near fall. Ziggler knocked Cena to the floor at 5:00. Zigger rammed Cena head-first into the announce table. Cena, though, blocked Ziggler's attempt to ram him into the ringside steps. Cena reversed it and then threw Ziggler back into the ring. Ziggler caught Cena as he entered the ring with a dropkick. Cena made a comeback, but Ziggler ducked his flying shoulder block. Cena rolled to the floor. Vickie observed from the ring apron as the ref began to count Cena out. She walked over and kicked him on the leg lightly and laughed. Cena rolled into the ring as the fans began a battle of "Let's Go Cena!" and "Cena Sucks!" chants. Cena made a comeback, but Ziggler cut him off and applied a side headlock. Cena tried to escape, but Ziggler dropped down with a chin buster for a two count. When it appeared Ziggler had Cena where he wanted him, Vickie tagged herself back in. She waved her hand in Cena's face and then went for a splash. Cena moved. Cole wondered what that measured on the Richter Scale. Ziggler tagged back in, but Cena had his feet back and went into his finishing sequence. He waved his hand in front of Vickie, then gave Ziggler a Five Knuckle Shuffle and the Attitude Adjustment. Ziggler countered, though, landing on his feet and hitting a Fameasser for a very near fall. Ziggler set up the Zig Zag, but Cena countered into the STF. Vickie yanked Cena off of Ziggler and yelled at him. Cena forced a kiss on her. Cole said he has more guts than he ever thought. "Cena's a real man!" Cole declared. Vickie cried as Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment on Ziggler for the win.

WINNER: Cena in 14:00.

-Afterward, as Cena set up Vickie for an Attitude Adjustment, C.M. Punk attacked Cena with a chair again. He then walked to the back looking very serious, never looking back. Cole said, "I just don't get it." Cena winced in pain in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2010, 11:07 am
WWE NXT Results: 12-21-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_46239.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity standings.

1 -- JOHNNY CURTIS (1-0) vs. JACOB NOVAK (0-1)

The announcers noted JTG was replacing R-Truth tonight, as Truth "could not be here." They cut to a shot of Vickie Guerrero watching backstage as Ziggler's Pro, Novak, gave him instructions. Novak took control and worked on Curtis's back as the announcers said they are two weeks away from the first elimination. Poor Curtis couldn't build any momentum and they cut to a shot of the Pros on stage where Maryse was furiously scribbling on her clipboard. Ziggler then interjected himself into the match behind the ref's back and helped Novak score a boot of sorts for the pin.

WINNER: Novak (1-1) in 7:00. Ziggler is everywhere.

2 -- TED DIBIASE & MARYSE & BRODUS CLAY (1-0) vs. CHRIS MASTERS & BYRON SAXTON (0-1) & Divas champion NATALYA

Maryse and Natalya started things off by having a mid-ring conversation. Maryse told Natalya to get lost, so she piefaced her. Maryse tried to run away, but Natalya chased her down and Maryse screamed and shrieked. Maryse had enough and tagged out to Clay. Big Clay dominated Saxton, who rolled to the outside selling that he was lifeless.

Back from break, DiBiase was working over Saxton with repeated knee drops to the forehead. DiBiase taught Saxton a lesson with mid-ring punishment before Masters tagged in. Team DiBiase cornered Masters, though, and Clay landed a flying butt bump in the corner. Saxton found his way back into the ring for the Rookies to work against each other. DiBiase tagged in and Bateman opted against tagging in Masters, so DiBiase nailed a dropkick and went back to work teaching Saxton more lessons.

Saxton eventually tagged out to Masters and the Pros went at it. DiBiase teased Dream Street, but Masters countered with a spinebuster. He teased the Masterlock, but Clay ran interference and DiBiase landed a dropkick. DiBiase screamed at the fans, then Masters found himself on the wrong side of town taking a slap from Maryse. DiBiase went back to work focusing on Masters before a double knock-down clothesline took both men to the mat.

Maryse tagged in, Saxton entered, and Saxton took a slap from Maryse. Natalya then tackled Maryse and they took a catfight out of the ring to the floor. The Pros tried to separate the Divas ringside. In the ring, Clay and Saxton went at it. Well, they kind of stalled for time before Clay went to the corner and missed with a big Vader Bomb. Saxton then covered Clay, who was selling the effects of missing the Vader Bomb, and scored a pin for the win. Saxton gets a win. Masters, Saxton, and Natalya celebrated ringside as Saxton sold shock that he won. On the other side, Maryse sold disgust with another loss as they signed off with Team Saxton continuing to celebrate.

WINNERS: Team Saxton (1-1) in 12:00. Highly random six-person tag match with some intriguing sequences trying to get over personalities. Maryse continues to be one of the more entertaining characters in the entire company, DiBiase got over his aggressiveness in a memorable way, Masters was Masters, and Saxton has something to brag about next week. This was entertaining, overall.

Updated Immunity Standings:
Derrick Bateman: 3 points
Johnny Curtis: 2 points
Jacob Novak: 1 point
Byron Saxton: 1 point
Brodus Clay: 0 points
Conor O'Brian: 0 points
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 24 2010, 11:08 am
WWE Tribute to the Troops Report: 12-22-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_46262.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- 15-MAN BATTLE ROYAL

The non-Nexus members tried to take out the Nexus members, then Nexus members simply bailed out of the ring to retreat. Masters was the first one via clothesline by Sheamus. Chavo then opportunistically eliminated Jackson when Jackson was trapped in a head scissors by Rhodes. Santino then cleaned house with the...Cobra, which drew a reaction. Sheamus knocked down Santino, then Henry slowly approached Sheamus. Cole said the world just stopped. Nexus suddenly re-entered the ring trying to take apart Sheamus and Henry. They eventually eliminated the Russian before turning toward Chavo, who was eliminated. Cody tried to show support for Nexus, but they dumped him out of the ring.

Sheamus and Morrison were suddenly forced into a situation working together along with Henry and Bryan against Nexus. Bryant hen eliminated Gabriel and Sheamus suddenly blasted Bryan with a Brogue Kick to eliminate him. Morrison eliminated Otunga, which dropped Nexus down to three members. Sheamus then battled Morrison, who caught Sheamus with the Flying Chuck.

They reached the ten-minute mark with Morrison being knocked off the apron to the floor. Henry then whipped Slater clear over the top rope to the floor. Henry just took it upon himself to start clearing space, eliminating McGillicutty. Henry then eliminated Harris to clean out Nexus. Sheamus instantly attacked Henry as the crowd rallied behind Henry. Meanwhile, Cole wondered what Barrett thought of Nexus's performance. Henry made a comeback feeling re-energized in his home state before press-slamming Sheamus clear over the top rope and to the floor. Henry wins the battle royal.

WINNER: Mark Henry in 12:00. Fine match playing up Nexus's gimmick and giving Henry a spotlight opportunity for the first time in a while.

2 -- BIG SHOW & KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER & IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER

Show landed an early frying pan-like chop to the chest on Ziggler before standing on his chest. The announcers talked about Ziggler escaping TLC with the IC Title as Ziggler made a comeback on Kingston. Kingston then landed a big monkey flip followed by ten punches in the corner. The action moved to the apron where Swagger dropped Kofi across the ring apron behind the ref's back to give the heels the advantage working on Kofi. Big Show eventually made his way back into the ring and cleaned house before dropping Swagger with a chokeslam for the win. Rima made it official as Show and Kofi celebrated the win.

WINNERS: Show & Kingston in 5:00. Basic house show tag match with the heels getting their comeuppance at the end.

3 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) vs. R-TRUTH (w/Eve)

Truth opened things with a hard slap for DiBiase as the announcers plugged George W. Bush's new book prior to him delivering a message. The announcers had one of those "stereotypes of women" type conversations you can always expect from WWE as the wrestlers knocked each other down and remained on the mat. Cole said he empathizes with Maryse, saying she really wants to be with a winner and DiBiase has been struggling lately. Maryse got on the ring apron to distract Truth, but Eve yanked Maryse to the ground. DiBiase tried to capitalize with Dream Street, but Truth countered with the Lie Detector for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Truth in 4:00. Basic house show singles match. The announcers referenced win/loss records, which would be a nice touch for WWE to keep track of in 2011 to enhance a story if a wrestler is on a winning/losing streak and the announcers can actually present hard figures supporting the stories.

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA & BELLA TWINS & KELLY KELLY vs. LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL & MELINA & ALICIA FOX

The heel Divas quickly took control of the match to work on Brie Bella. Kelly eventually took a tag tag and cleaned house while repeatedly smashing McCool's face into the mat. The action completely broke down before Kelly was left alone in the ring to drop McCool with the Rocker Dropper for the pin and the win. The babyface Divas did a curtain call for the audience to conclude the action.

WINNERS: Team Kelly in 3:00. Surprising to see McCool, of all people, take the loss. It was a house show finish with Kelly getting a measure of revenge on Lay-Cool for all of the "Smelly Kelly" jokes in 2010.

5 -- REY MYSTERIO & RANDY ORTON & JOHN CENA vs. WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) & ALBERTO DEL RIO & WADE BARRETT

Miz and Cena started things off and the heels quickly took control working on Cena. Cole declared that Del Rio proved he belongs in the "big time" after the four-way TLC match at the PPV. Orton then tagged in and teased the RKO on Barrett, but Miz ran interference to allow Barrett to regain control. The heels then picked up an attack on Orton. They cut to break with the heels in control working on Rey.

Back from break, the heels were still working on Rey. The heels tagged in and out before Rey eventually made a hot tag to Cena. Del Rio also tagged in and accepted the Classic Cena Comeback. The action broke down and Orton gave the Angle Slam to Miz. Suddenly, Del Rio and Barrett found themselves on the middle rope. Rey hit a double 619, Cena hit the Attitude Adjustment on Del Rio, Orton hit the RKO on Barrett, and Cena pinned Del Rio for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena in 13:00. Standard house show main event to send the crowd home happy.

Rey, Cena, and Orton did a curtain call to celebrate for the fans as Cole called it the "entertainment and holiday tradition" known as "Tribute to the Troops." Cole and Lawler said it's about "putting smiles on the faces of the troops." They cut to a final shot of Cena celebrating in the ring before a video package capturing the entire special aired to conclude the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2010, 10:33 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_46284.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- D.H. SMITH vs. ZACK RYDER

Stanford noted Ryder was victorious last week on Superstars and he won a Slammy Award for worst catchphrase. Ryder, riding that momentum, slapped Smith early on before running away. Smith came back with a half Boston Crab, Ryder escaped, and Smith resumed a ground attack. Ryder then took a ride on a delayed vertical suplex for a nearfall. Ryder took a break on the outside, but Smith tapped him on the shoulder and landed a big European uppercut. Back in the ring, Ryder cut off Smith and landed a dropkick from the second turnbuckle for a two count. Ryder returned the favor settling into a mat-based hold trying to wear down Smith. The announcers filled time creating conversation about Ryder's basic characteristics of being cocky, arrogant, and full of himself. Ryder settled into a body scissors and they cut to break.

The two-segment match resumed with Ryder standing up Smith in an abdominal stretch. Smith escaped, but Ryder pounded on Smith in the corner. They battled up top and Smith missed with an elbow drop after knocking Ryder to the mat. Ryder tried to follow with a suplex, but Smith countered with a suplex. Smith called to the crowd for extra strength as he built momentum with clotheslines and an overhead throw. Smith tried to show fire and landed a powerslam for a two count. Smith missed with a running leg drop, but Ryder missed with the Rough Ryder, and Smith dropped Ryder with a Saito Suplex for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Smith in 12:00. Basic back-and-forth match with each man showing flashes of decent work in the ring. But, there's a reason why they're on Superstars and not on Raw right now. Smith with new generic rock music doesn't help. (*1/2)

2 -- USO BROTHERS (JIMMY & JEY) vs. DARREN YOUNG & YOSHI TATSU

Lawler said the Usos made a big splash when they first debuted, but he's surprised they haven't put themselves in the mix lately. Stanford noted Tamina's absence as Young and Jey battled in the ring. Yoshi then tagged in and nailed a series of kick strikes. Jey bailed to the floor and tagged in Jimmy on the way back in the ring to blindside Yoshi. The Usos began working over Yoshi as Lawler and Stanford talked about Nexus in the past-tense after Cena's work on them at the TLC PPV. The crowd rallied behind Yoshi, who teased a comeback before executing an enziguiri kick to escape and tag in Young. Young landed some offense for a nearfall, but the Usos blind-tagged again and attempted a double Samoan Drop. In post-production, they cut to a different camera shot to cover for the move not being executed cleanly, but it was good for a pinfall to give the Usos the win.

WINNERS: Usos in 5:00. Basic tag match trying to establish the Usos on their own. WWE just doesn't have a program for any of the four men in this match, so the name of the game is just staying on TV. (*)

3 -- KELLY KELLY & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAY-COOL (KELLY KELLY & LAYLA)

Matt Striker noted three of the four Divas in the match are injured after the TLC PPV where Beth and Natalya defeated Lay-Cool in a tables match. Lay-Cool sold the effects early on in the match, including McCool refusing to tag in while selling her back and side muscles. Lay-Cool eventually bailed to the floor looking for a break, but Kelly slid through Beth's legs for a dropkick that knocked Lay-Cool to the floor. Beth taunted them as the show cut to break.

Back from break, Kelly executed a handspring elbow smash in the corner to continue the babyface Divas's momentum. McCool then came back with a belly-to-belly suplex and Lay-Cool built some momentum working over Kelly. The heels worked over Kelly for a few minutes as they built to a hot tag to Phoenix, who cleaned house on Lay-Cool. Layla was left alone in the ring to take the Glam Slam for a pin and the win. Afterwards, Beth and Kelly hugged it out while McCool desperately reached out for Layla, who was splattered across the ring. Kelly and Beth waved to the crowd as they went to a final shot of McCool dragging Layla across the ringside area to continue selling the effects.

WINNERS: Phoenix & Kelly in 12:00. Phoenix is picking up where she left off pre-injury dominating in the ring. It would be great to see her in the Rumble again like this year when she memorably eliminated Great Khali. Fine main event getting over the personalities and stories of everyone involved. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2010, 10:34 am
TNA Impact! Results: 12-23-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_46292.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. AMAZING RED

Jarrett went after him aggressively at the start, mounting his back and pounding him, then adding an anklelock. Red held off as long as he could, but tapped out.

WINNER: Jarrett in 1:00.

-Afterward Jarrett helped Red to his feet and told him to he gave him a good shot. He asked him if he has any cousins or brothers or sisters or kids who could give him another challenge. Red says he has a baby brother. Jarrett told him to bring him next week. The crowd chanted "Angle! Angle!"

2 -- MAX BUCK vs. JEREMY BUCK vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) vs. KAZARIAN - X Division Contendership Match

Jay Lethal joined Taz and Tenay on commentary. Tenay asked Lethal which wrestler of those four he'd like to defend his X Title against. Max and Jeremy tagged in against each other and postured together in the ring, then yanked Robbie E. into the ring as he gyrated on the ring apron for Cookie. The Bucks worked together even though it was officially a four-way. Kaz tagged in at 4:00 and finished Jeremy almost immediately with a reverse tombstone piledriver. Lethal stood up and invited Kaz to try to take it from him and do what Ric Flair couldn't.

WINNER: Kaz in 5:00.

3 -- TARA & MADISON RAYNE vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (Angelina Love & Velvet Sky) -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team Title Tournament Final

Sky wasn't able to join Love at the start of the match because of the attack by Rayne minutes earlier. This week Tenay was in the middle of a plug for upcoming matches, totally ignoring a cover by Rayne on Love. Taz interrupted him to call it. The heel tandem continued to methodically beat Love. The mystery British lady, Winter, came out and joined the match. The referee inexplicably counted her as a legitimate partner of Love and she quickly pounded Rayne and quickly pinned her. Taz said nobody saw this coming. Love didn't know what to make of Winter celebrating with her. She seemed confused.

WINNERS: Love & Winter in 5:00 to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

4 -- DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. A.J. STYLES -- TV Title Iron Man Match (15 MIN.)

It's pretty sad when an Iron Man match is 15 minutes, as if that's some sort of marathon length for a pro wrestling match, but in this era where the median length of a TV match is about 4 minutes, it will seem long. Early on Williams went into side headlocks to ground Styles and then transitioned into a hammerlock. At 4:00 they cut to a break.

Back to the match, Styles was in control. They showed a replay that during the break Styles hit a Styles Clash for the first fall. Odd to book that during the break, although the plus is that it does create the sense that things weren't planned out ahead of time. When Styles bailed out to ringside after a flurry of offense against Williams, the ref told him to return to the ring. Styles said he had all the time in the world. Taz said he doesn't disagree with what Styles is doing because it's clock management, but then said in amateur wrestling, sitting on a lead can actually leave you vulnerable to a loss. When Williams went after Styles at ringside, Styles threw him into the ringside steps and then pointed at his head to indicate how smart he is. Styles roundkicked Williams's back, and Taz called the kick by name accurately. He's the only announcer who's bothered to learn and use the proper names of karate kicks employed in matches (although he likely knew them before he got into wrestling). At 13:00 Williams hit an exploder suplex on Styles. Tenay said they were under two minutes and Williams desperately needed a pin to even the score. Williams hit Rolling Chaos Theory in the closing seconds to tie the score at 1-1. Neither were able to score another pin in the final 15 seconds, so they went to overtime.

Styles said he wanted five more minutes. Williams said he only needed one minute. Borash, after a conference with ref Earl Hebner announced there would be a five minute overtime. I'm not sure of the way they portrayed it, as if they were making it up as they went along and didn't actually have a set rule for what happened in the not-all-that-unlikely event of a tie after 15 minutes. They cut to a break before going to overtime. Williams knocked Styles off balance on the top rope early in OT. Styles rallied with a springboard forearm and a Pele Kick and scored a near fall at 4:00. Styles fought off a top rope suplex attempt by Williams for a few seconds, and by the time Williams executed it, time expired before he could make the cover. So overtime ended without a fall.

WINNER: Draw in 20:00 so Williams retained his TV Title.

5 -- MATT MORGAN & THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS & ROB VAN DAM vs. BEER MONEY & ABYSS & JEFF HARDY - TNA Tag Team Titles on the line if Guns get pinned by Beer Money

Everyone took turns in the early minutes, then the heels settled into a sustained beating on Shelley for the body of the match. Beer Money double-suplexed Shelley and then did their little choreographed dance and shouted "Beer! Money!" Two minutes past the top of the hour, Tenay ended Impact, then they paused for a split seconds and moved officially into Reaction. RVD hot-tagged in at 7:00 and worked Abyss, Roode, and Storm with a flurry of kicks. He scored a near fall on Roode after Rolliing Thunder. Sabin then tagged in and hit a flying clothesline Storm, but Storm countered with a face buster. Shelly and Morgan entered the ring without tags. Hardy hit Morgan with a Twist of Fate. RVD entered to go after Hardy, but Hardy avoided him, as he had all match, bailing out to ringside. Shelley and Roode battled. Sabin caught Roode with a tornado DDT for the win. Nobody seemed to care at the end that nobody was tagging in the final minutes, which makes the idea of spending more than five minutes building to a hot tag in the body of the match seem pointless if anyone could have just entered at any time anyway. Unless I missed something, that kind of arbitrary inconsistent enforcement of rules is unnecessary and undercuts the storytelling of matches in general.

WINNERS: Morgan & Guns & RVD in 9:00.

STAR RATING: **1/4 - Good main event tag team. RVD avoiding Hardy was the biggest story of the match, but otherwise it was just a nice display of wrestling action.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2010, 10:57 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 12-20-10

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10015824.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Jay Brisco defeated Stever Corino in a Holiday Gauntlet Match at 5:47. They shoved each other after a clean break, and then had a shoulder block collision. They argued and then and several more collisions before Jay ducked a clothesline and won the shoulder block challenge. Corino reversed a whip to the corner and hit a chop.

Jay looked at him like he was crazy and Corino hit the STO. It looked like they botched a lift and Corino locked on the abdominal stretch. Corino checked Jay's oil twice and Jay reversed into his own abdominal stretch. He threatened to check the oil and the ref stopped him, allowing Corinio to roll up for two. Corino went for the Emerald Dream, but Jay ducked and hit Corinio's injured arm and rolled him up for the pinfall victory. Post-match Corino hit a knee lift on Brisco before finally leaving the ring. Entranct number three was Christopher Daniels. Daniels ensured Jay had recovered from the post-match assault before they started…

2. Christopher Daniels defeated Jay Brisco in a Holiday Gauntlet Match at 5:31. Daniels took quick control and worked the abdomen of Jay. Jay hooked two school boy rollups, but Daniels hit a front suplex to retake control. Jay escaped a rest hold and hit a superkick. He hit a death valley driver and a Russian leg sweep into the turnbuckle. Jay went for the Jay Driver, but Daniels reversed into the Angle's Wings for the pinfall victory. Rhett Titus was the fourth person selected. He hit the ring and they started immediately…

3. Christopher Daniels defeated Rhett Titus in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 5:39. Daniels hit a heel kick as Titus ran in. Titus came back with a drop kick and worked Daniels in the corner and on the ropes. Daniels escaped a splash in the corner and hit an insaguri kick. Titus rolled to the flor and Daniels followed. Titus hit a big boot and rolled him in the ring. He covered for two and went to the top. He jumped off and Daniels hit a Rock Bottom. Daniels followed with the BME for the win. Davey Richards was the fifth man out…

4. Davey Richards defeated Christopher Daniels in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 5:44. Richards went right to work, but Daniels hit many moves too. They went rapid fire back and forth with moves. Daniels locked in a kogi (sp?) lock. Richards made the ropes and hooked an Ankle Lock. Daniels escaped and setup for the BME. Richards moved and hit the Alarm Clock and followed with a huge kick to the head for the win. Claudio Castagnoli was the sixth man out…

5. Davey Richards defeated Claudio Castagnoli (w/Sara Del Ray and Shane Hagadorn) in a Holiday Gaunlet match at 5:37. Richards attacked Claudio on the floor to start. He rolled Claudio in the ring and Claudio hit a kick as Richards crawled in. Claudio put on a clinic of power moves and went to the top. Davey ran up and they battled. Claudio knocked him down three times, but Richards hit a superplex the fourth time for two. Claudio kicked out and Richards hooked the ankle lock.

Cluadio escaped and reversed the handspring kick into the UFO for two. He lifted for the Riccola bomb and Richards rolled down for a surprise win. Chris Hero was the seventh man out…

6. Davey Richards defeated Chris Hero in a Holiday Gauntlet match at 6:22. Hero attacked immediately and hit a big kick for two. Davey grabbed him and hooked the Cloverleaf, but Hero made the ropes. Hero choked him on the ropes and Hagadorn took a cheap shot. Hero tried for a Cloverleaf, but Richards reversed into an ankle lock.

Hero made the ropes and hit his rolling elbow and a running powerbomb for two. Hagadorn distracted the ref and Hero put on the loaded elbow pad. He missed the elbow that time and Richards rolled him up for the surprise victory. Post-match Richards dragged Hagadorn in the ring and started to attack him. Hero hit the loaded elbow on the back of the head and knocked Richards out. Roderick Strong was the last guy out. He hit the ring immediately…

7. Roderick Strong defeated Davey Richards to win the Holiday Gauntlet at 2:54. Strong covered immediately but Richards kicked out. Strong mounted him for punches and Richards woke up. They traded blows and Richards whipped Strong to the corner and charged. Strong moved and hit his gutbuster for two. Richards came back and hooked the ankle lock, but String escaped and hit two kicks to the head for the victory.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 29 2010, 01:28 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-27-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_46342.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champion SANTINO (w/Tamina) vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse)

DiBiase quickly decked Santino with a right hand blow and settled into a rear chinlock. Santino teased a comeback, then avoided a dropkick and quickly rolled up DiBiase for a pin. That was it for DiBiase. Santino then grabbed a Christmas present and handed it to Tamina, who opened up to find the hidden Cobra in the box. DiBiase and Maryse then jumped Santino and Maryse from behind, but Santino and Tamina quickly recovered, hit stereo fist drops, and finished with stereo Cobra smashes on DiBiase and Maryse to essentially score two wins.

WINNER: Santino at 0:59. What...are...they...doing...with...DiBi ase? It's well past time they do something with the DiBiase/Maryse partnership to advance DiBiase's career. He's stuck in neutral going backwards downhill. (n/a)

2 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. ALEX RILEY (w/WWE champion The Miz)

Miz shouted encouragement toward Riley as he took control of the match early on. Riley executed a side slam and made a cover for a nearfall. Miz paced ringside angry with Riley's inability to put away Morrison. Morrison then built some momentum and went for a springboard kick, but Miz yanked Morrison down. The ref saw it, but didn't call for a DQ, instead he gave Miz the boot. Riley then tried to roll up Morrison, but Morrison kicked out. Morrison then came back with a springboard kick strike and measured Riley for a running knee strike to the face. Morrison made the cover and it was good for the win. Miz didn't even make it to the back, as he was on the stage looking on with peril as Morrison celebrated the win.

Post-match: Morrison shook hands with Lawler and told Lawler that the WWE Title match will be next week and it will be Falls Count Anywhere. Cole complained that Miz is not an animal, but an athlete. Cole said Miz should demand a protest.

WINNER: Morrison at 4:43. Interesting they're going with the WWE Title match on next week's Raw rather than at the Rumble. So, next week, it's Miz vs. Morrison for the WWE Title in a Falls Count Anywhere match. (*)

3 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Jason Andrews) vs. MARK HENRY

Henry dominated early on and measured Kidd for a seated butt splash, but Kidd rolled out of the way and began stomping away on Henry. Kidd settled into a front facelock and grunted toward the crowd. Henry then came to his feet and caught Kidd off the top rope for the World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the cover and that was it.

Post-match: Andrews did the Kevin Nash entrance into the ring to stare down Henry, who met him face-to-face. Henry then backed away and Andrews landed a developmental kick to the gut. He missed with a clothesline when Henry ducked and Henry dropped Andrews with the World's Strongest Slam.

WINNER: Henry at 2:07. Henry resurgence? Another bad night for heels, in this case Kidd & Andrews? How can Andrews recover from that in his first big WWE TV spot being completely owned by Henry? And why invest TV time in a backstage segment with Bryan and Kidd if Kidd is going to lose clean? Plenty of questions to be answered after that one. (*)

4 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JERRY LAWLER -- non-title match

Miz started things off with a take down, which prompted him to gloat to the crowd about his technical prowess. The announcers bickered while Miz took control of the match while taunting Lawler. Miz slapped on a headlock as Lawler looked to the crowd for some energy, but Miz yanked Lawler down to the mat to cut off Lawler. Miz followed with a boot to the chest before rubbing his boot across Lawler's forehead. Miz continued to taunt Lawler, who tried to fight back, but Miz kicked Lawler in the face again. Miz drew the ref's ire by raking Lawler's eyes, then he stood over Lawler taunting the crowd again. Cole said it's becoming a bit uncomfortable. Miz staggered Lawler with a left hand before taunting him some more half-speed knee and kick strikes.

Suddenly, at 7:00, John Morrison's music hit. Morrison walked out on stage and stared into the ring before walking to the ring. Miz then turned back to Lawler and missed with a clothesline. Lawler staggered across the ring, avoided a running kick, and came to his feet. Lawler with a left hand jab, then another one. And another. And two more. Lawler followed with a series of dropkicks as the crowd came to life. Lawler tried a scoop slam, but Miz rammed him to the corner. Miz missed with a corner clothesline, then Riley tried to run interference, but it gave Morrison an opening to deck Miz on the floor. The ref applied a ten count and sped up near the end, giving Lawler a count-out victory.

WINNER: Lawler via countout at 9:36. Fine set up for next week's Miz vs. Morrison title match. You just have to get past the logic hole that it looks silly for a heel not to take a win after taunting an opponent for an acceptable length of time, but they tried to cover that base earlier in the show when Miz laid out his strategy to take Lawler apart piece by piece. (*1/2)

5 -- MELINA & ALICIA FOX vs. EVE & GAIL KIM

Eve started things off against Fox, so we'll see if Gail actually enters the match this week. The heels dominated early on, then Gail accepted a tag from Eve and scored with high-flying offense on Melina. Gail tried a cover on Melina, but Fox broke it up. The action broke down, then Melina dropped Gail with her swinging leg drop finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match: Natalya entered the ring to stare down Melina who tried to back off with a "let me explain" gesture. Melina shook hands, then tried a surprise slap, but Natalya saw it coming and dropped Melina with a strike to the face. Melina slipped out of the ring and did an evil glare back toward Natalya as the camera went back and forth on Natalya and Melina to set up their eventual Divas Title match.

WINNERS: Melina & Fox at 2:25. Expected result with Gail taking the loss. Overall, fine continuing the build-up to Natalya vs. Melina in a one-on-one women's division feud. (*)

5 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Bella Twins) vs. ZACK RYDER -- non-title match

Suddenly, they came back from break with a Bryan vs. Ryder match already in progress. Lawler said the Bellas are with Bryan because he's a winner, while DiBiase and Maryse are having issues because DiBiase isn't winning. This was essentially a repeat of the MSG house show match last night with Ryder scoring about a minute of offense before Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock for a quick submission victory.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 1:06 of what aired. (n/a)

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. RANDY ORTON

Orton and Sheamus traded offense early on as the announcers noted how evenly matched Orton and Sheamus are due to their similar styles, equal success in 2010, and numerous matches against each other during the year. Sheamus put together successive offense before Orton exploded out of the corner with a clothesline. Orton teased entering IED mode, but Sheamus cut off Orton as he attempted a spike DDT. Orton dumped Sheamus to the floor anyways and the fight picked up on the floor. Sheamus rammed Orton's back-of-the-head into the ringpost before coming off the apron with an impressive flying shoulder tackle for a nearfall. Orton writhed in pain on the mat as they cut to break with Sheamus in control.

Back from break, Cole noted Orton has dealt with a nagging back and neck injury over the past two months and said Sheamus is capitalizing on that by working on Orton's upper body. Sheamus executed a running powerslam, but it was only good for a two count. Sheamus looked to the ceiling selling exasperation he couldn't put Orton away. Sheamus drew ref Chioda's ire not letting Orton out of the corner as he measured Orton for a right hand strike. Orton teased a comeback with right hands, but Sheamus nailed him in the mid-section and followed with multiple forearm strikes for a two count.

At 10:00, the crowd tried to rally behind Orton, who teased another comeback. Orton avoided a corner attack, then took Sheamus up top and executed a superplex. Orton clutched his head to sell the effects on himself and made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in time. Sheamus and Orton started trading bombs on their feet before Orton finally built some momentum with clotheslines and a powerslam. Orton ducked a clothesline, then executed an Angle Slam for a two count. Orton teased the RKO, but Sheamus came back with an Irish Curse backbreaker, which was only good for a two count.

They went to a teased finish where each man missed with a finisher attempt before Sheamus landed a double sledgehammer. Sheamus, in control, taunted the crowd and wanted the High Cross, but Orton wiggled out and hit a fallaway snap backbreaker. Orton then entered the IED Zone, but Sheamus rolled to the apron. Sheamus wanted another flying shoulder block from the ring apron, but Orton countered in mid-air with the RKO. Orton rolled over Sheamus and scored the pin for the win. Nice.

WINNER: Orton at 14:26. Textbook 15-minute singles match getting over both competitors and ultimately getting over Orton's RKO counter at the end of the match. Just a very good showcase TV match to close out 2010. Looking at the finish of this match, it looks like WWE is thinking ahead to a Miz vs. Orton re-match at the Royal Rumble PPV if Morrison doesn't take the belt next week on Raw. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 30 2010, 12:22 pm
WWE NXT Results: 12-28-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_46381.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity standings.

1 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jacob Novak) vs. JOHNNY CURTIS (1-1) -- non-title match

Ziggler dominated early on, then Curtis made a comeback and frightened Vickie when he bounced off the ropes. Novak tried to protect Vickie on the outside, prompting a scolding from Ziggler for putting his hands on Vickie. The crowd chanted, "You suck," and Grisham quipped that the chant could be directed at a number of people. Ziggler then regained control and landed a neckbreaker for a two count. Ziggler attempted a flying corner attack, but airballed and sold Curt Hennig style. Curtis then fired off a round of clotheslines and grunted loudly, killing his heat. Curtis followed with a lift-up throw and looked for a top rope splash, but Ziggler moved and Curtis ate the mat. Ziggler followed right up with the Zig-Zag and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler in 6:00. Fine match continuing to invest time in Ziggler.

2 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (0-2) (w/Kofi Kingston) vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (1-0) (w/Alberto Del Rio)

Kingston was replacing Daniel Bryan as his Pro this week. Bateman controlled the early proceedings before O'Brian landed a single arm DDT. Mathews noted next week's elimination voting begins tomorrow on WWE's website. Bateman and O'Brian went back and forth, then O'Brian hit his finisher for the win. Del Rio demanded his personal ring announcer Ricardo Rodriguez announce "Conan O'Brien" as the winner.

WINNER: O'Brian (2-0) in 3:00. Bateman is apparently saddled with the Daniel Bryan/Kaval "losing streak" gimmick on NXT. Okay, but not memorable.

3 -- TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse and Brodus Clay) vs. BYRON SAXTON (1-1) (w/Chris Masters)

The bell sounded and the director decided to stay with a camera shot of Maryse and her claimed $3,000 purse. Clay did not bring pen and paper to ringside for the match, of note. DiBiase took an early arm drag and DiBiase yelled at the crowd to draw boos. DiBiase, angered, stomped Saxton into the corner with multiple boot strikes. Clay informed Saxton he's a clown as the camera focused on Maryse occupied with herself. DiBiase went to work on Saxton's mid-section before telling Clay this is how it's done. DiBiase landed a clothesline, but Saxton kicked out. Mathews started heeling on the show as DiBiase continued to work over Saxton.

DiBiase put a boot to Saxton's head taunting him as the camera focused on Maryse's purse again. DiBiase then choked Saxton in the corner and Brodus pie-faced Saxton. Saxton found himself on the ring apron and DiBiase dropped him with a neckbreaker across the top rope. Clay decided he couldn't control his aggression anymore and nailed Saxton with a running clothesline causing a DQ as the ref was applying a ten count.

Post-match: DiBiase berated Clay, who said he was trying to help. Maryse screamed at Brodus that he's an idiot. DiBiase then ordered Maryse to slap Clay and she obliged. "That's what you get! Do you understand me?" DiBiase shouted in Clay's face. The crowd wanted Clay to do something about it, but Clay smiled and suggested there will be another day. DiBiase and Maryse walked out of the ring celebrating the...loss. Clay continued to sell emotions welling up inside him about to explode before they cut to break.

WINNER: Saxton (2-1) via DQ in 6:00.

Immunity Standings:
Johnny Curtis: 5 points
Derrick Bateman: 3 points
Jacob Novak: 1 point
Byron Saxton: 1 point
Brodus Clay: 0 points
Conor O'Brian: 0 points
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 30 2010, 12:23 pm
WWE News: Health update on John Cena - WWE addresses injury, Cena scratched from house show (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_46410.shtml)

Quote
WWE has released an official injury update on John Cena, claiming he has a "hip injury." WWE left Cena's status open-ended, saying he is day-to-day.

"Last night in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., John Cena suffered a hip injury. His return to action will be evaluated on a day to day basis," WWE said on their website.

Cena suffered a leg injury in the main event of Tuesday's house show in Wilkes-Barre. Cena finished the steel cage match against Wade Barrett, then hobbled out of the cage after addressing his apparent injury to the live crowd.

WWE's Raw brand is scheduled for two more house shows today and Thursday to conclude 2010. WWE did not address Cena's status for the shows in the injury update.

Sources say former TNA Knockouts champion Awesome Kong has signed with WWE (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_46407.shtml)

Quote
PWTorch has learned former TNA Knockouts champion Awesome Kong has signed with WWE, as confirmed by Kong today on Twitter.

"My dreams just came true today. I got my dream job. Yes, THAT one," Kong posted.

Kong's post confirms what sources told the Torch on Tuesday that Kong has signed with WWE.

Since parting ways with TNA earlier this year, Kong has worked for independent promotions and select Ring of Honor shows, including the "Final Battle 2010" Internet PPV on December 18.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 01 2011, 12:33 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 12-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_46436.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. DARREN YOUNG & YOSHI TATSU

The announcers discussed Tamina's "strained relationship" with the Usos and Mathews decided he didn't want to speculate on their relationship woes. Young scored two early nearfalls as Stanford was fixated on Young failing to hook the leg on the pin attempts. Yoshi tagged in and nearly scored a three count on Jey with a crucifix pin before scoring with a dropkick for another nearfall. The Usos rallied against Young as Stanford referenced Rikishi and a Stinkface by Jey on Young in the corner.

Yoshi took a hot tag at 4:00 and cleaned house. Stanford over-used the "house of fire" phrase as Yoshi landed offense before the action broke down. Young found himself on the floor taking a ringpost to the face. Back in the ring, Yoshi went up top, but Jimmy crotched him and flung him to the mat. Jimmy then hit a top rope splash on Yoshi for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Usos in 6:00. Basic tag match trying to re-focus on the Usos without Tamina. (*)

2 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. D.H. SMITH

Regal and Smith traded technical holds as Stanford referenced Smith's father, "British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith, and noted Regal faced Davey Boy at Halloween Havoc 1993. He also used "wrestled" in the same sentence as a WCW PPV reference. Mathews acted shocked at a 1993 reference as Stanford continued to talk about the background of the competitors. On the floor, Smith ran over Regal with a shoulder tackle and played to the crowd. They cut to break with Stanford offering another sports cliché they're watching a "real donnybrook."

Back from break, Mathews derisively noted the "donnybrook" is continuing. Stanford said he could have used "brawl," but decided for the European-influenced "donnybrook" adjective to describe the match involving Regal. Smith scored a delayed vertical suplex, then Regal cut him off at the knees and began working the legs. Regal slapped on a half Boston Crab to continue focusing on the legs and Stanford said, "That has to sting." Mathews went silent almost catching himself from laughing.

Regal went for a butterfly suplex, but Smith countered with a back drop using one good leg. After a Northern Lights Suplex for a nearfall, Smith tried to follow with another suplex, but his knee gave out. Regal then chopblocked Smith and hit the Knee Trembler to the head for the pin and the win. Regal collected himself and sneered at the audience after collecting the win.

WINNER: Regal in 8:00. Above average Superstars match with below average commentary. Smith doesn't convey much personality as a singles wrestler, though. His character needs a spark or a fire lit under him. (*1/2)

3 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Korpela noted the tagline for this match is a battle between two of the most powerful wrestlers in WWE. The announcers also noted Reks's presence creates an uneasy feeling in the arena because he's an unknown figure. Korpela added another tagline: "Pure Strength vs. Raw Aggression." The announcers then spent the first-half of the match trying to find as many different ways to get over the Strength vs. Aggression tagline. The match moved to the floor and Reks yanked Masters's left arm across the top rope. Masters writhed in pain on the floor as Striker quickly sent the show to break.

Back from break, Reks continued to work over Masters's left arm/shoulder. Korpela noted Reks is hoping to be one of the participants in the Royal Rumble on January 30. Striker said wrestlers are going to be jockeying for position leading to the Rumble. One way to give this match some added juice would have been to make it a Rumble qualifying match or show Teddy Long backstage evaluating the match to determine which wrestler might earn a Rumble slot from the Smackdown brand. Reks continued to work over Masters's left shoulder before Masters pulled Reks into the ringpost to get a breather.

Masters followed with a one-arm Samoan Drop for a two count, then a one-arm uranage. Masters wanted the Masterlock, but Reks easily escaped and landed a knock-down clothesline for a two count. Reks then "fought the demons inside his head" and pounded on Masters with punches and kick. Reks tried to follow with the Burning Hammer, but Masters back-dropped out of the finisher and made a comeback. Reks cut off his comeback, though, and nailed the Burning Hammer for the pin. Reks get the main event victory.

WINNER: Reks in 11:00. Exceeded expectations with a decent match story and back-and-forth in the final three minutes leading to the finish. Reks's character remains one-dimensional, though, and doesn't jump off the screen. WWE doesn't seem to be ready to invest in him beyond a regular Superstars spotlight match just yet. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 01 2011, 12:34 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 12-30-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete Report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_46441.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROBERT ROODE (w/James Storm) vs. CHRIS SABIN (w/Alex Shelley)

Tenay and Taz talked about Eric Bischoff's ultimatum to A.J. Styles. Storm interfered at 5:00 and then turned to mix with the fans at ringside and played dumb, which got some laughs. Taz said it was the "fourth quarter." It's sad when five minutes into a match, it's considered the fourth quarter. I suppose he knew the time allotted, though, because seconds later Roode avoided a springboard DDT and spinebuster for the clean win. Taz might as well have told viewers, "Pay attention, my script says the finish is coming up quickly." That was odd.

WINNER: Roode in 5:00.

STAR RATING: *3/4 -- Everything they did was good, but it felt like the first five minutes of a good 15 minute match with a finish that came too suddenly without enough offense by Roode leading up to it.

2 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie)

We got the obligatory opening minute rear chinlock from Robbie E. Less than a minute later RVD hit the Five-Star Frog Splash for the win.

WINNER: RVD in 2:00. The downside of this is that it totally demeans the X Division. The former champ loses to RVD in two minutes and it's no big deal. That communicates clearly and decisively that the X Title is a jobber title relative to the heavyweights. It's so needlessly thoughtless. There's just no reason to have an X Title if former champs are going to be squashed like that.

3 -- VELVET SKY vs. SARITA -- Strap Match

Tenay told viewers to remember that the latest Jeff Jarrett MMA challenge was coming up later. Afterward Sarita whipped Sky with the strap afterward. Angelina Love made the save.

WINNER: Sarita in 3:00. A three minute strap match? Really? TNA continues to be the gimmick-match-killer, rendering every money-match ever created commonplace and impotent by blowing them off so quickly and inconsequentially on TV. They're so inefficient, needlessly so. And it's not that strap matches were ever the biggest drawing gimmick ever, but it was among the bag-o-tricks that changed things up in the midst of a feud every couple years, and here's a case where TNA fans who remember this strap match will never pay extra to see it again. The fact that they don't even know enough to leave their top drawing acts - the Knockouts - out there for longer than a 4-5 minute segment is just mind-boggling.

4 -- JEFF JARRETT vs. "BABY RED" (w/Amazing Red)

Jarrett had to scramble to the ropes twice in the first minute to break early submission attempts. Jarrett ended up on offense and went for an anklelock, but Baby Red turned it into an anklelock of his own. Jarrett, with the held of Gunner and Murphy, reached the bottom rope. Tenay pulled a word out of the 1980s and said that was "bogus." Nobody under the age of 60 has used that word in 25 years. Amazing Red beat up Murphy at ringside as Gunner tended to a stunned Jarrett. Jarrett then snuck into the ring with his gutter, but Red yanked it away and smashed it on the mat. Jarrett then bailed out of the ring and pretended to be held back by Team Jarrett, but didn't put up a real fight. Taz said Jarrett was very content being held back.

WINNER: No decision in 2:00. Good old-style segment. It's been done hundreds of times, but it was good basic stuff that works. [c]

5 -- "THE FREAK" ROB TERRY & A.J. STYLES vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS

They opened with Magnus vs. Styles. Early on Williams tagged in, so Styles tagged out quickly to Terry. Tenay plugged a Year in Review edition of Reaction from Immortal's perspective. Terry got Williams down with a clubbing forearm that looked like a 1980s Atari videogame sequence - choppy and stuff and fake. Williams made a comeback against Styles. It's tough not to be glued to the ring when Terry is in there because for his short stints in the ring, he's just so green and awful it's hard to fathom. After some four-way has Styles knocked Williams to the floor. Magnus tried to suplex Styles, but Styles countered into Rolling Chaos for the win.

WINNERS: Styles & Terry in 4:00. That was enough tags and chapters of a match for 15 minutes packed into four. Watching them work around Terry's limitations is also quite fun.

6 -- MR. ANDERSON & BULLY RAY vs. MATT MORGAN & BROTHER DEVON

After Anderson's self-ring-intro, Bully (Brother) Ray was revealed as his special mystery partner. Ray wasn't happy when it was revealed that Devon was Morgan's partner. Foley reiterated that over the years backstage Devon was well-liked and Ray wasn't.

Anderson asked Ray if he wanted to tag in and face Devon. Ray didn't want in and leaped off the ring apron to the floor. They cut to the stage where Bischoff sent Gunner and Murphy to the broadcast table where they ordered Foley to the back. Foley resisted at first, but agreed to go peacefully. Then he stood and attacked Gunner and Murphy. He put Socko on Murphy as they ended Impact and cut to Reaction. In the ring Ray had the advantage on Devon in the ring, but that monumental moment wasn't even caught from the start and they kept cutting away to show Foley being dragged away in handcuffs by Gunner and Murphy. Finally back in the ring Ray dropped Devon with a measured punch and then a stomp. Ray beat down Devon and then yelled, "I told you he was weak." Anderson reluctantly tagged in. Devon gave him an immediate jaw-breaker. Anderson sold it oddly, selling the concussion angle. He tagged Ray back in. Ray tagged Anderson back in and threw him into the ring. Morgan swung at Anderson. Anderson ducked and gave Morgan a DDT. Morgan caught Anderson leaping off the top rope by the throat and chokeslammed him. Ray broke up the pin attempt. Devon charged at Ray to knock him out of the ring. Morgan then got up as Ray re-entered the ring. Morgan threw a discus clothesline as Ray, but Ray ducked and Morgan's arm took out Anderson from behind. The blow to the head finished Anderson. Taz and Tenay wondered if it was an accident. It was good for a three count. Morgan looked upset with the situation afterward and checked on Anderson.

WINNERS: Morgan & Devon in 8:00.

STAR RATING: *1/2 -- The athleticism wasn't anything special, but it forwarded some storylines effectively.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 02 2011, 02:38 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-31-10

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_46457.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BIG SHOW vs. CODY RHODES

Show quickly forced Rhodes into the corner to deliver a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Show then flung Rhodes across the ring and landed another big chop to the chest. Show then sat on Rhodes's face with his butt crack and waited out a five count from the referee. Rhodes quickly scampered to the outside and asked for his ring jacket to check on his face. Show then palmed Rhodes's head to bring him over the top rope back into the ring. Show continued to ragdoll Rhodes around the ring before measuring him for a big running butt bomb that Rhodes avoided. Rhodes then nailed a springboard kick to the head and flailed away with stomps, kicks, and punches. Show came back with another back body drop before calling for the KO Punch. Rhodes saw it coming and just left the ring. The camera zoomed in on Rhodes having a significant cut across his chest. Rhodes never looked back to the ring and just disappeared to the back as Show scored the count out victory.

WINNER: Show in 3:00. Rhodes is such a great heel. Just stay in the game, continue to get over, and eventually break out of the mid-card gimmick. Fine booking to get Show a measure of revenge on Rhodes, but not the ultimate prize. (*)

2 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. TRENT BARRETA

After 30 seconds, Mathews noted Barreta lasted longer than McIntyre's "opponent" last week. Mac dominated the action early on before landing a flying buckle bomb that crunched Barreta in the corner. Mac followed with multiple forearm blows to the upper chest and cut off Barreta's attempted comeback. Cole and Mathews undersold Barreta, who then made a comeback with a top-rope missile dropkick that cleared Mac to the floor. Barreta tried to follow with a flying splash over the top rope, but Mac moved and Barreta ate the floor. Barreta landed clean, but sold a serious injury. The referee immediately stopped the match and ran over to the timekeeper to declare Mac the winner. Mac smiled and mockingly applauded Barreta before scooping him up for the Future Shock DDT on the floor. Mac waved good-bye to Barreta as the announcers moved along to plugging the big tag match and IC Title match still to come.

WINNER: McIntyre via referee stoppage in 4:00. Apparently the "rebuilding effort of Drew McIntyre" will feature him hurting undersized mic-card babyfaces to look dominant. (*)

3 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE & REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE & ALBERTO DEL RIO

Rey teased an early 619 on Del Rio before Edge tagged in and went to work on Del Rio. Kane and Edge briefly battled before Edge and Rey cleared Kane to the outside. Edge then teamed up with Rey to flip him over the top rope for a splash on both heels. With the faces in control and the heels recovering on the floor, they cut to break.

Back from break, Mathews sounded like Vince McMahon introducing an episode of Monday Night Raw in '94. Kane and Del Rio worked over Edge and the crowd, on cue, started a slow clap trying to get Edge back in the ring while the announcers focused on the basic heel characteristics of Kane and Del Rio. Rey eventually tagged in and was knocked to the outside. Kane flung Rey into the ringside barrier, drawing shouts from the fans sympathetic to Rey. As the heels worked over Rey back in the ring, Cole noted it's all about becoming World champion and said the wrestlers are doing whatever they can to get there.

Edge took a hot tag at 11:00 and fought off Del Rio before dropping him with an elevated DDT. Edge got that look in his eyes and wanted the spear, but Kane cut him off with a chokeslam attempt. Edge blocked, then shoved Kane over the top rope to the floor. Rey then quickly set up Del Rio for the 619, Rey hit the 619, Del Rio spun back to center ring, and Edge dropped him with the spear center-ring for the pin and the win. Rey and Edge hugged it out and celebrated to conclude the match.

WINNERS: Edge & Rey in 13:00. One of those house show main event tag matches to give Smackdown viewers a happy ending to 2010. Since WWE doesn't emphasize wins and losses, Del Rio didn't lose anything taking the fall, as no one will remember the outcome by this time next week. (**)

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAY-COOL (MICHELLE MCCOOL & LAYLA)

They came back from break with Lay-Cool already in the ring before Phoenix and Natalya came to the ring for a re-match from TLC, which Beth and Natalya won. After a minute of action, they cut to break with the heels in control on Natalya and Beth selling concern from ringside.

Phoenix took a tag, but Lay-Cool quickly cut her off and began working on Phoenix. The action went back-and-forth with each team scoring close nearfalls. Eventually, Natalya cleared Layla out of the ring and Phoenix trapped McCool for a Glam Slam. McCool sold like she was about to take a big drop on a rollercoaster. Phoenix with the pin for the win. Afterward, Lay-Cool tried to put the pieces back together while Natalya and Phoenix celebrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Natalya & Phoenix in 10:00. Nice, full-length Divas match with six minutes of action presented on the other side of the break. It sets up Lay-Cool to enlist the services of a third person who can match up against Natalya and Phoenix if this feud is going to continue. (**)

5 -- IC champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER -- Intercontinental Title match

Swagger and Ziggler quickly took down Kofi and began taking turns working him over. Very methodical pace with the heels taking advantage of a numbers advantage and not allowing Kofi to build any momentum. Ziggler stood over Kofi to taunt him, then Kofi finally scored offense to pop the crowd. Kofi cleared Swagger to the outside, then cleared Ziggler on the other side. Swagger tried to sneak up on Kofi, but Kofi saw him coming and dumped Swagger to the floor. Kofi followed with a suicide dive on both men as Mathews sold excitement over Kofi's comeback. Kofi with the advantage going to break.

Back from break, the action was still on the outside where Swagger and Ziggler's alliance dissolved. Eventually, Ziggler and Kofi went one-on-one in the ring with Ziggler scoring a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ziggler followed with a leaping elbow drop for a nearfall as Vickie screamed at Ziggler to finish him off. Ziggler bumped Swagger off the apron as Swagger tried to re-enter, then Ziggler went back to work on Kofi with a headlock. And Vickie went back to screaming. Kofi made a big comeback, which brought more concerned screams from Vickie.

Kofi hit a Boom Drop, then Swagger interjected himself into the match to suplex Ziggler for a nearfall. The pace quickened and Swagger tried a pin on Kofi, who had bumped heads with Ziggler, but Kofi kicked out. Moments later, all three found themselves in the corner and Swagger dropped Ziggler with a powerbomb. Swagger then turned around and took a high cross-body splash from Kofi, who scored a super close nearfall that had the crowd buzzing. The announcers paused to let the moment breathe. Swagger then tackled Kofi and went for the Anklelock, but Ziggler snuck in the back door and dropped Swagger with the Zig-Zag. Ziggler made a cover on Swagger and Kofi broke up the pin. "What's wrong you with?!" Vickie screamed at the ref.

All three men collected themselves on the mat as Vickie paced ringside. The crowd tried rallying behind Kofi, who battled Swagger as he sold the leg work. Kofi blocked a suplex attempt with a DDT and made a cover, but Vickie put Swagger's foot on the bottom rope. Cole tried to defend Vickie by suddenly saying it's No DQ in a triple threat match. Okay, so Vickie should have blasted everyone with a steel chair 15 minutes ago. One of those inane, illogical moments on WWE TV.

For the finish, Kingston dropped Swagger with Trouble in Paradise and the crowd popped thinking he had the match, but Ziggler snuck in the back door with a roll-up on Kingston with a handful of tights for the win. Cole sold excitement as the crowd came down from their high. After a video recapping the high points of the match, they went to a final slow-motion shot of Ziggler clutching the IC Title and celebrating with Vickie to conclude 2010.

WINNER: Ziggler in 16:00 to retain the Intercontinental Title. Very good TV match in spite of the three-way format. They certainly continued the issue between Ziggler and Kingston, with Kingston having two close calls during the match. It was a nice touch giving this match the main event spotlight trying to elevate the IC Title. What are the chances of U.S. champion Daniel Bryan main-eventing an episode of Raw? (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 05 2011, 02:20 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_46500.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- WWE Title match -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Riley tried ot get involved, but Miz accidentally bumped Riley when Morrison ducked. The fight moved up to the stage and Morrison rammed Miz into the Raw logo on the Titantron. Riley got involved again and Morrison rammed him into the WWE logo on the platform. Morrison then climbed on top of the big WWE logo and splashed both men. Morrison made a cover on the stage, but Miz kicked out. Morrison sold a left knee injury and punched Miz down the ramp toward the ringside area.

Miz and Morrison made it back into the ring where Miz attempted a superplex, but Morrison delivered forearm strikes to knock Miz to the mat before landing a missile dropkick for a nearfall. Cole recapped Miz and Morrison's story dating back to their tag team days as Morrison scored another nearfall with a roll-up. Morrison followed with a springboard kick to the face, then a running knee strike. He had the pin, but Riley yanked Morrison out of the ring. On the floor, Morrison ran Riley into the guardrail as Cole noted Miz is getting recovery time in the ring. Morrison decked Riley with a flying knee before screaming down at him to go away. Back in the ring, Miz sold that he was scared of what he was seeing from an intense Morrison, who paced the ring like a wild tiger as the referee called for medics for Riley. They cut to break.

Back from break, Miz and Morrison were on the floor below the stage. Miz was looking for a suplex onto a loose guardrail, but Morrison blocked, only to take a back body drop onto the guardrail for a nearfall. Cole and Mathews continued to talk about having a feel "it's John Morrison's night," which means he's not winning. Miz resumed his attack on Morrison with a running knee strike on the stage for a nearfall. Miz followed with a hip toss sending Morrison back-first onto the metal entrance ramp for another two count. Closer to ringside, Miz grabbed a strobe light and smashed Morrison with it to score another nearfall.

At 12:00, the action returned to the ring. Miz toyed with Morrison and taunted him while screaming, "You're not better than me! You're nothing, John!" Morrison fired back with right hands before they started trading punches and kicks. Morrison landed a series of knock down clotheslines for another nearfall, then wanted Starship Pain, Miz moved. Morrison landed on his feet, though, and Miz followed with the Reality Check for a close two count. Miz then crouched behind Morrison and got that look in his eyes wanting the Skullcrushing Finale, but Morrison reversed and went for SSP again. This time, he connected. Morrison made a cover, but Miz kicked out. Morrison sold he couldn't believe it, Cole poped for Miz, and the crowd chanted for a table.

Morrison landed a roundhouse kick that took Miz to the floor at the base of the table. Morrison placed Miz on the table, then went to the ring apron. Morrison wanted a super Starship Pain on the table, but Miz moved and Morrison ate the table. Morrison writhed in pain as Miz made a cover, but Morrison kicked out, shocking Miz. Cole complained about the officiating while both men recovered on the floor. Miz then slowly crouched behind Morrison and dramatically dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz made the cover...and it was good for the win. Miz retains the WWE Title. Cole said Morrison was game, but Miz proved he's the rightful WWE champion. Cole claimed there was no Alex Riley involvement to excuse Miz's win. Oh boy, another year of delusional Cole Commentary.

Post-match: Miz slowly made his way up the entrance ramp as Morrison was checked on by medics. Morrison was shown crawling on his belly toward Miz, who just looked back at him with a half-turn. Morrison sold intensity that he'll get Miz eventually.

WINNER: Miz at 17:26 to retain the WWE Title. The winner was never in doubt when the announcers did that "it's Morrison's night!" commentary that gives away the opposite outcome, but the match was very strong and helped get over both men as potential top stars all throughout 2011. The FCA stipulation was superfluous for this level of the feud, but they effectively used the arena to enhance the match and nearfalls. (***1/2)

2 -- MELINA & MARYSE & ALICIA FOX vs. Divas champion NATALYA & BRIE BELLA & EVE

They came back from break with the babyface trio of Divas already in the ring to start the match. Brie started the match and was knocked to the outside. She rolled under the ring and Nikki rolled back out. In the ring, they had the switcheroo for a pin on Maryse, but Alicia broke it up. Natalya then tagged in and wanted the Sharpshooter, but Melina distracted her. Melina then gave Natalya a neck snap across the top rope and tagged in. Melina thought she had a clean angle on Natalya, but Natalya landed a discus clothesline. Eve then tagged in and dropped Melina with a spinning facebuster for the pin and the win. Afterward, Melina sold on the outside while the babyface trio stood tall in the ring to continue building to Natalya vs. Melina.

WINNERS: Team Eve at 3:03. Eve scoring the pin on Melina was an interesting finish. Fine match, but three minutes isn't enough to stand out on the show. (*)

3 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO MARELLA (w/Tamina) & KOZLOV vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- non-title match

Kozlov started things off against Jimmy, then Santino tagged in to a strong reaction. Cole said the match could give the Usos a future title shot and noted the wrestlers on the roster are auditioning for a Rumble slot. Mathews said it's the "most exciting 60 minutes" WWE delivers on the year. Kozlov tagged back in, but the Usos cut him off and tried wearing him down. Kozlov eventually tagged out to Santino, who did his routine. Santino wanted to raise the roof and delivered the Sailor's Salute drop for a two count. Kozlov suddenly got caught up on the ropes and time stood still as he tried to throw himself over the top rope to complete the spot. Santino tried the Cobra on Jimmy, but Jimmy ducked and hit a Samoan Drop for the pin on Santino.

Post-match: Tamina checked on Santino and Jimmy wanted to know what's up with her. Kozlov then dropped Jimmy before Santino and Tamina hit him with a Double Cobra to officially break away Tamina from the Usos. Santino, Kozlov, and Tamina stood tall as the Usos regrouped on the outside.

WINNERS: Usos at 3:55. Santino is supposed to deliver the comedy, but Kozlov delivered the comedy this week getting tied up in the ropes and still trying to throw himself over the top rope. Classic Koz. It looks like a Tag Title match is in the works after the Usos scored the win here. (*)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 05 2011, 02:20 am
4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. R-TRUTH

Truth took control early on taking advantage of Del Rio being "disoriented" from the pre-match slap. Truth knocked Del Rio to the floor and nailed a plancha that took both men to the ground. Ricardo checked on Del Rio as they cut to break.

Back live, Truth continued to hammer on Del Rio in the ring. Truth landed ten punches to the head followed by a snap powerslam for a nearfall. Del Rio came back with a fallaway arm drop dropping Truth's left arm across his knees. Del Rio continued to focus on the left arm/shoulder looking to set up Truth for the cross armbreaker. Del Rio aggressively kicked Truth in the gut, but missed with an attack on the ropes and flew to the outside.

Ricardo tried to wake up Del Rio, who sold the effects before storming back into the ring, only to take a series of clotheslines from Truth. Truth executed a hip toss for a two count, but Del Rio rolled to the apron and yanked Truth's left arm into the ringpost. Del Rio then locked on the cross armbreaker center ring. Mathews said no one gets out of Del Rio's finisher. Truth held on for a good ten seconds before tapping out to give Del Rio the win. The announcers recapped the finish and said Del Rio sent a clear message to everyone in WWE that his goal is to win the Rumble.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 9:53. They clearly wanted to get over Del Rio as one of the favorites in the Rumble match and continue using Raw to expose him to a wider audience. (*3/4)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KING SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT -- #1 contender steel cage match -- only way to win via escaping -- Barrett out of Nexus with a loss

Barrett immediately tried to climb out, but Orton and Sheamus cut him off. Orton and Sheamus formed a temporary alliance, then Sheamus tried to escape by climbing out (rather than going through the door), and Orton cut him off. Barrett then blindsided Orton with a boot to the head, but Orton recovered and tried to climb the cage to escape as the crowd screamed in excitement, but the heels yanked him back into the ring. The crowd chanted for Orton, who tried to fight off both men. Sheamus knocked down Barrett, then tried to escape, but Orton cut him off. Orton finally tried to escape through the door, but then turned back to both men and teased the RKO. He remained perched on the mat staring at the heels as they cut to break.

Back live, Orton was sitting on top of the cage trying to escape as Sheamus tried to pull him back in. Orton's body dangled over the side of the cage as Sheamus tried to pull him back in. Barrett then joined the effort to drag Orton back inside the cage. Sheamus ended up standing right next to the door, which he could have escaped through, but opted to go back on the offensive against Orton, who made a full comeback. Orton wanted the spike DDT, but the crowd shouted at him to get Barrett, who was trying to escape on the other side of the cage. Orton cut off Barrett, then threw him into the side of the cage. The crowd popped as Orton positioned both men on the ropes for the spike DDT, but Barrett blocked and Sheamus back dropped Orton into the side of the cage.

At 9:00, Sheamus began stomping on Orton before teasing an escape. Orton cut him off, then Barrett attacked Orton from behind. The heels double suplexed Orton, trying to take out their biggest threat. Sheamus and Barrett then traded blows, their alliance not lasting very long. Barrett got the best of Sheamus and started climbing, but Orton grabbed him and pulled him back into the cage to deliver a superplex from the top turnbuckle.

Cole and Mathews reset the show as all three men collected themselves. Sheamus delivered power offense on Barrett, then tried to escape through the cage door, but Orton yanked him back in. Barrett recovered and dropped Sheamus with a pumphandle slam as Orton came to life again. Barrett landed a belly-to-belly suplex, saw everyone was down, and began climbing the cage again. Barrett fought off Sheamus, then opted for a top rope elbow drop, but Sheamus blocked with his knees. Sheamus then measured Barrett, but Orton surprised him with a series of clotheslines and a powerslam. Barrett also took a powerslam. Sheamus then took the Angle Slam from Orton before Barrett took a spike DDT off the second rope.

Sheamus suddenly blocked an attack and tried to climb out, but Orton cut him off. They traded headbutts before Barrett crotched both men. Barrett was alone and he slowly began climbing, but C.M. Punk suddenly came to ringside. Punk climbed the cage and extended a hand for Barrett. Punk then ripped off Barrett's Nexus armband and kicked Barrett off the cage. Barrett took a dramatic flatback bump and Punk left the ringside area with Barrett's N armband.

In the cage, Sheamus called for the cage door trying to leave. Sheamus gave Barrett the Brogue Kick, then Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO on Sheamus. Orton stared at the open door as the crowd roared. Orton slowly approached the cage door, stared back at his opponents, and escaped the cage to win and become #1 contender. The crowd applauded and cheered as Orton stared inside the cage. Cole gave a quick wrap-up eight minutes past the top of the hour and they signed off with the visual of Orton confidently staring back inside the cage.

WINNER: Orton at 18:45 to become #1 contender, Barrett is out of Nexus. Exciting cage match if you can get past the logic hole of why the wrestlers opt for the difficult path of escaping over the top of the cage rather than trying to escape through the door until the very end. It's similar to the suspension of disbelief required for a ladder match when the wrestlers take forever to climb a ladder. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:49 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_46832.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO & KOZLOV (w/Tamina) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- WWE Tag Title match

Cole noted the Usos earned the tag title shot by winning a non-title bout against Santino and Kozlov a few weeks ago. A basic tag match ensued setting up Santino dropping Jey with the Cobra for the pin and the win. Post-match: Tamina celebrated with the tag champs while the Usos backed away selling frustration with the loss.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 2:32 to retain the WWE Tag Titles. Expectedly short match. Back to square one with the tag division. (*)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Bella Twins) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

Bryan and Morrison locked up as Cole plugged the "biggest Royal Rumble match in history" with 40 men in the match this year. Bryan scored with a dropkick that sent Morrison to the floor, then Bryan and Morrison had a stand-off on the floor. They quickly rolled back into the ring simultaneously and had a stare-down to sell the idea of two eventually matched babyfaces having a competitive bout. Cole robotically fed to a break.

Back from break at 4:30, Morrison had Bryan in a side headlock as they cut to a shot of the Bellas encouraging Bryan from ringside. Morrison knocked down Bryan, then wanted Starship Pain, but took too long, and Bryan rolled out of the way. Bryan followed with a kick to the head for a nearfall. The crowd was clearly behind Morrison in this match. Bryan and Morrison suddenly ran the ropes ducking clotheslines before running into each other with a double cross-body block. After a six count, they came to their feet and traded bombs. Morrison then countered a suplex into a head scissors that Bryan countered into a pin for a nearfall. More counters and reversals. Bryan teased the LeBell Lock, but Morrison came to his feet and catapulted Bryan into the top turnbuckle. Bryan set up too early to accept the springboard flying chuck and Morrison connected with a glancing blow. Morrison then hit a running knee smash and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Morrison at 7:22. Good match, but it could have meant more if given more time and a chance to anticipate the match. The emphasis, though, was on Morrison, the character, and they used the match to get to the larger point of the Sheamus vs. Morrison feud in the post-match... (*3/4)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. RANDY ORTON

Back from break, the bell sounded to begin the top-of-the-second hour main event. Cole claimed it's the first they've met in a singles match. Orton landed early punches, followed by a knock-down clothesline. Cole talked up Orton's quest for the WWE Title at the Rumble while Orton continued to dominate. Orton slapped on a reverse chinlock that he sold convincingly before Ziggler hit a jawbreaker to escape the hold. Ziggler followed with a dropkick to the left knee and began working on Orton's leg.

As Cole reset the show at the top of the hour, Ziggler wrapped Orton's left leg around the ringpost. Orton teased a comeback that popped the crowd, then Ziggler cut him off with a dropkick to the chest that floored Orton. Ziggler missed with a wild clothesline and missed with a desperation corner splash that gave Orton an opening to make his signature comeback starting with a snap powerslam. Orton wanted the trademark DDT off the second rope, but Ziggler slipped out and took out Orton at the left knee.

Ziggler hit the Fameasser for a close two count. He followed with his finishing sleeperhold as Orton sold he was fading. Orton reached the ropes for a break, though, and the ref forcibly removed Ziggler from the hold. Ziggler then tried the Zig-Zag (which the crowd didn't quite recognize), but Orton grabbed the top rope to avoid Ziggler's finisher. Orton then sprung with the RKO out of nowhere (the crowd didn't quite recognize the sudden RKO counter). Orton scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 8:26. Good showing by Ziggler in defeat. The match was designed to eventually get over Orton as the triumphant face, then transfer that heat to Miz in the post-match. (**)

4 -- Divas champion NATALYA vs. MARYSE -- non-title match

Maryse controlled the action early on as they cut to a shot of Melina studying Natalya from the announce position since she is the #1 contender to the Divas Title. Natalya made short work of Maryse, forcing her to submit to the Sharpshooter in under two minutes. Natalya then posed in the ring as Melina shot her a dirty look and Eve smiled.

WINNER: Natalya via submission at 1:40. More emphasis on Natalya as a dominant champion and set-up for more post-match activity...

5 -- MARK HENRY vs. TED DIBIASE

After a brief back-and-forth, Henry dumped DiBiase over the top rope to win the challenge in less than 30 seconds. DiBiase acted stunned ringside.

WINNER: Henry at 0:26. More of the same with DiBiase and set-up for more post-match activity...

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK

The bell sounded and they slowly walked toward center ring to stand nose-to-nose. Punk told Cena to bring in, then Punk fired the first strike and the fight was on. Cena whipped Punk hard into the corner turnbuckle, then saluted the crowd. A few more moves by Cena, with the crowd not popping for Cena's offense since they hadn't built up a comeback for Cena and there was no way the finish was coming. Punk and Cena came to a standstill trying to figure out the next spot, so Cena audibly said, "Kick me." Cena shot Punk off the ropes, then Punk kicked him in the shoulder to send Cena to the outside. They cut to break with Punk temporarily on the offensive.

Back from break, Cole recapped that Nexus was banned from ringside and if they interfered in the match, they would be removed from the Rumble. Punk was in control of the action as Cole and Lawler debated the merits of Punk's leadership. Lawler suddenly blurted out, "It's a cult," which was the heaviest verbiage WWE has used thus far to describe New Nexus under Punk. Moments later, Lawler said it's "cult-like."

Cena started to make his trademark comeback, but Punk cut him off. Punk then wanted the Go 2 Sleep, but Cena grabbed Punk's knee in mid-air and transitioned into the STF. Cole called Cena a "submission specialist" before Punk reached the bottom rope for a rope break. After a pause, they came to their feet and hit a double knock-down clothesline to put both men back on the mat. Back on their feet, Punk landed a knee to the side of the head before executing a springboard flying clothesline for a nearfall.

At the top of the hour, Punk sold frustration with Cena and started landing right hand blows. Cena suddenly teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk countered with an STO into the Anaconda Vice. The camera zoomed in tight on Cena's face as he sold the effects of the submission hold. Cena tried to power his way to the bottom rope, then sold fading out. "Give up!" Punk screamed. Cena eventually reached the bottom rope to break the hold. Cena tried to recover on the ring apron, but Punk kicked him in the head and Cena fell to the floor. Punk wanted a plancha, but Cena caught him in mid-air and rammed Punk into the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Cena teased a top-rope move, but Punk cut off Cena and landed an enziguiri kick. Punk then teased a superplex, but Cena blocked and headbutted Punk to the mat. Cena measured Punk for a leaping guillotine leg drop and connected for a close two count. Cole exclaimed Punk was setting a great example for the rest of the Nexus members. Suddenly, Mason Ryan from FCW showed up on the ring apron. The Batista-lookalike scared Cena, then entered the ring and smiled at Punk. Punk extended his arms and Mason creamed Punk with a kick to the head, resulting in Cena being DQ'ed since Ryan interfered against Punk. Technically, that's how it would go. The crowd didn't know how to react, but Cole said Punk was offering himself as a sacrifice.

WINNER: Punk via DQ at 15:44. They delivered more of a match than I expected, but the non-finish was expected. Ryan is an impressive figure, not just with the obvious Batista-like muscularity he brings to the table, but in the way he handled himself with his presence and not over-selling his intensity. He looks national TV-ready. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:50 pm
ROH on HDNet Live Results: 1-17-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10016253.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Briscoes defeated The Elite at 4:04. Jay and Adam Revolver started. Jay hit a running boot and tagged in Mark. Ted McNailer tagged in and they hit a double team move on Mark. Jay tagged in and the Elite worked double team moves on him. Mark got the hot tag and hit redneck kung-fu and a running knee. They hit the Doomsday Device for the "Slap the Porpoise" win…

Shore's Slant: Good squash match. The other guys got in a little offense, but it was a Briscoe clinic. When those guys lock it up with Shelton Benjamin and Haas next month it could be the best tag team match of the year already in February.

2. MisChief defeated Daizee Haze at 7:12. Daizee started with a waist lock, but MisChief quickly recovered and Matrix ducked a clothesline. The women worked stomps and chops back and forth. They climbed to the top and battled. Daizee knocked her off and hit a missile drop kick for two.

They worked a very weak reversal chain and then Daizee hit the German Suplex for two. Daizee setup for the Heart Punch, but MisChief hit an elbow and the desecrator for the win. Post-match, MisChief still wouldn't shake hands. Daizee grabbed her and spun her around. MisChief spit green mist in her face and Daizee oversold it…

Shore's Slant: A pretty good match except for that one chain. And boy was it slow and bad. Daizee went a little over the top there, but I appreciate a story for the women.

3. Christopher Daniels defeated Chris Hero (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) at 15:53. They did shake hands before the match and went right into some mat wrestling. They worked around again and Daniels hit a knee drop to the wrapped elbow to take control. Daniels continued to work the elbow on the rope. Hero shoved Daniels to the floor. He was distracted by Del Ray and Hagadorn. Hero hit a dropkick through the ropes on Daniels.

Hero stomped Daniels on the floor and then rolled him in the ring. Hero hit several strikes, but Daniels hit a German suplex for two. Hero hit the rolling elbow to send Daniels to the floor. Daniels reversed a whip to the barricade, but Hero jumped on the top and spun and hit a flying elbow. Daniels made it in at 19 and Hero hit a stiff kick for two.

At 10:13, Daniels reversed a whip to a stomp to the chest and went to work. He hit a STO for two and then a springboard moonsault for two. Hero came right back and hit a running powerbomb for two. Hero lifted Daniels, but Daniels reversed into a serious looking submission hold with his legs around Hero's head.

Daniels setup for Angel's wings, but Hero escaped. Daniels hit a powerbomb and covered, but Hagadorn distracted the ref. Daniels knocked Hagadorn down, and Hero hit an elbow. Del Ray distracted the ref and Hagadorn tossed the loaded elbow pad in. Hero put it on, but Daniels ducked and hit a slam. He followed with the BME for the win…

Shore's Slant: Fantastic match that I thought was better than the Hero vs. Richards match I saw in Charlotte. The roster in ROH is so talented when you figure you have great tag teams that can also hold their own as singles wrestlers. I think these matches ought to help them get a new TV contract.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:51 pm
WWE NXT Results: 1-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_46874.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. BYRON SAXTON (w/Dolph Ziggler)

Masters scored with an early shoulder tackle before landing a series of hip tosses. Saxton developed an attitude and slapped Masters, who slapped him right back. Saxton rolled to the floor and used Ziggler as a distraction to deck Masters on the floor with a clothesline. Back in the ring, Saxton dropped Masters with an inverted jawbreaker to begin working over Masters. Masters made a standard comeback at 3:30 and landed a sit-out slam for a two count. Saxton then cut off Masters and became frustrated with his inability to put Masters away. Masters then used Saxton's over-aggression to slap on the Masterlock and score the submission victory.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 4:50. Basic match setting up Masters to serve Saxton with something "special" for the finish.

2 -- TED DIBIASE & BRODUS CLAY (w/Maryse) vs. U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN

DiBiase tried to take off Bryan's head with an aggressive clothesline early in the match. Clay then tagged in and picked up where DiBiase left off working on Bryan. Ziggler suddenly interrupted from the stage telling Bryan to go ahead and give up the match. The crowd responded with boos for Ziggler, then rallying cheers for Bryan, but Clay ran over DiBiase with more power offense. Clay wanted the Claw-like finisher, but DiBiase blind-tagged into the match. Clay didn't appreciate that, but bowed to his Pro. DiBiase wanted Dream Street, but Bryan countered with a hip toss. Bateman then tagged in and landed consecutive clotheslines on DiBiase for a nearfall. DiBiase cut off Bateman with a clothesline, then slapped Clay and accused him of blowing the match. Clay argued back that he had him beat and DiBiase lost it. Clay dropped off the apron, frustrated, and Bateman rolled up DiBiase from behind for the win. Maryse just laughed. It was a "I can't believe this is happening again" laugh. DiBiase sold frustration ringside while Maryse just walked away on the other side of the ring. Maryse flashed her phone to DiBiase across the ring and walked off.

WINNERS: Bateman & Bryan at 4:34. Fine tag match. Bryan's role was to lower himself (as has been the trend lately) to advance the DiBiase-Clay-Maryse issues while setting up Bateman for a needed win on NXT.

3 -- RICARDO RODRIGUEZ vs. CONOR O'BRIAN

O'Brian quickly knocked Ricardo to the outside and Ricardo tried to beg off. They cut to a shot of Del Rio nervously watching on a backstage monitor. Ricardo suddenly tried a flurry of strikes, but O'Brian cut him off. O'Brian then removed the top turnbuckle pad, drawing the ref's ire. O'Brian proceeded to miss with a corner splash and eat the exposed steel. Ricardo stumbled to his feet. "Not like this!" Ziggler sarcastically shouted. Ricardo, with the crowd actually behind him for a surprise win, stumbled to his feet, then tripped over himself to splash O'Brian for the three count. Backstage, Del Rio sold that he was impressed. Ricardo tried celebrating, but tripped over himself again.

WINNER: Ricardo at 1:49. What do you say? What can you say?

Derrick Bateman had immunity and Conor O'Brian was eliminated from NXT.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:52 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 1-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_46943.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Tentative start with the two men feeling each other out looking for an advantage. Early in the match, WWE production explored tighter camera shots inside the ring, which they went for a few weeks ago on Superstars to enhance the action. Chavo dominated the first four minutes before JTG teased a comeback with a back body drop to escape Chavo's offense. JTG scored with consecutive clotheslines followed by a neck-tie-like drop for a two count. Chavo came back with a Northern Lights suplex, followed by clotheslines and punches. Chavo missed with a corner attack, then JTG hit the Mug Shot to set up the Shout-out for the pin and the win.

WINNER: JTG at 5:47. Nice, simple formula match. No one is buying JTG or Chavo as contenders to win the Rumble, but the announcers were able to focus on the overall journey each wrestler is on trying to get to WrestleMania via the Rumble. (*1/4)

2 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CURT HAWKINS

Masters confidently took control of the action while the announcers focused on Hawkins being in the midst of a losing streak. Hawkins comes in 0-2 to start 2011. Masters tried to finish it early with a splash from the second rope, but Hawkins moved and Masters ate the mat before eating Hawkins's boot. Hawkins tentatively worked over Masters before Masters suddenly sprung with the Masterlock. Hawkins was trapped and was forced to give it up, sending him to 0-3.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:23. Effective match. In front of limited audiences lately on NXT and Superstars, WWE is getting over the Masterlock. Also, wrestlers selling how tentative they are to wrestle Masters because of the Masterlock is a nice piece of booking. With how little depth there is on WWE's roster, you never know when WWE will need to tap into their investment in Masters for a featured program on Smackdown. (*)

3 -- DARREN YOUNG & D.H. SMITH vs. PRIMO & ZACK RYDER

Young quickly decked Ryder with a clothesline, then dropped Primo with an arm drag. Smith tagged in and lost control of the match. On commentary, Scott Stanford was amused at Ryder's antics as he worked over Smith. Enter Primo to work on Smith. The announcers noted all four men were in the eight-man tag main event last week, but were apparently instructed to ignore Primo randomly being assigned to Young and Smith's babyface team last week. The heels continued to work over Smith before he finally made the tag to Young. Stanford with his weekly "house of fire" line. That must be the only line he knows to sell a babyface comeback. The action broke down and Ryder suddenly dropped Young with the Rough Ryder for the quick pin and the win for the heels.

WINNERS: Ryder & Primo at 5:01. Rare TV victory for Ryder, who improved to 1-2 on TV this year. WWE doesn't seem to have anything for Smith and Young right now, but they haven't stood out to warrant further investment by WWE. (*1/2)

4 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Yoshi tried an early roundhouse kick, but Kidd ducked and quickly rolled to the apron to get a breather and re-size Yoshi. Yoshi resumed his fighting stance and Kidd re-entered the ring with a cocky smile. They tentatively locked up center ring and Kidd kicked Yoshi in the mid-section to put him in a submission. Yoshi bridged out into a monkey flip for a nearfall. Stanford was popping for the counters as if he were watching the finish of an ROH match. Kidd escaped another bridge attempt by Yoshi and executed a dragon screw leg whip. Yoshi immediately began clutching his left knee and rolled to the outside selling agony. Stanford fed to the final commercial of the show.

Back from break, Kidd was screaming at the referee to ask Yoshi if he wanted to give up. Kidd continued to work on Yoshi's left knee while also flashing his cocky smile to the crowd. Kidd screamed at Yoshi to give up and Yoshi tried to fight back with forearms before Kidd cut him off again. Kidd applied a front anklelock, but Yoshi pushed Kidd through the ropes to the outside with his one good leg. Yoshi continued to sell the left leg as Kidd slowly returned to the ring apron and airballed a springboard elbow drop.

Yoshi, on one good leg, landed chops and a roundhouse kick to the gut. Yoshi executed a Northern Lights suplex, but he sold not being able to maintain the bridge pin because of his knee. Nice attention to detail. Yoshi then went up top, which Mathews noted was questionable strategy. Yoshi attempted a top-rope roundhouse kick, but Kidd ducked and Yoshi crashed to the mat. Mathews said he believes Yoshi is done now. Kidd then cockily set up for the Sharpshooter, but Yoshi suddenly pinned Kidd with a small package for the three count.

Post-match: Kidd huffed and puffed while Yoshi tried celebrating the match victory on one good leg. Yoshi eventually made his way out of the ring and waved to the crowd. Kidd just wiped his face in frustration as Stanford wondered aloud what the loss means for Kidd's U.S. Title quest. Oh yeah, that storyline. Stanford signed off as they went to a final shot of Yoshi hobbling to the back.

WINNER: Yoshi at 12:04. Good TV main event. Basic, fundamental, easy-to-pick-up and understand story with Kidd trying to take away Yoshi's high-flying, Yoshi showing "fighting spirit" making a comeback, and then Yoshi showing he can be resourceful with a small package to score the all-important three count. Kidd is underrated as a performer and it's only a matter of time before WWE finds something for him to sink his teeth into, with or without Jackson Andrews. Kidd really carried the middle portion of the match with his heel mannerisms and constant chatter in the ring. Good chemistry between Kidd and Yoshi to close the show. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:54 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 1-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_46946.shtml) Thank God it's condensed to in-ring results because there was a whole lot of jawwing going on ;)

1 -- Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE vs. SARITA vs. VELVET SKY vs. MICKIE JAMES -- non-title four-way match

Mickie and Velvet argued over who should start the match since they each wanted a piece of the heels. So, they decided to start the match against each other. About a minute into the match, Tenay plugged the Impact TV taping in Fayetteville, N.C. on February 24. Four-way action broke out at 2:30 with everyone battling in the ring. Mickie went up top for a finishing move on Madison, but Tara showed up out of the ref's view to pop Mickie in the face. Madison then tried a KO Punch on Mickie, but she ducked and Sarita sorta took the blow. Clunky spot. Mickie then rolled up Madison for the pin.

WINNER: Mickie at 4:17. Basic story. Mickie with the pin on the champion to advance her quest for another KO Title shot. (*)

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. ROB TERRY (w/Ric Flair)

The bell sounded and Terry was still getting pre-match instructions from Flair. Terry then turned around and took the Carbon Footprint from Morgan. Pin and the win for Morgan to make short work of Terry.

Post-match: Flair tried to attack Morgan with chops, but Morgan no-sold. Flair tried bouncing off the ropes for a chop, but Morgan no-sold and Flair begged off. Suddenly, Abyss wedged himself through the ropes to enter the ring for an attack on Morgan. Abyss landed several punches as the crowd chanted for Morgan. Morgan avoided a clothesline, then dropped Abyss with a discus clothesline. Terry then took a sidewalk slam. Taz said Morgan is amped up. Morgan still wanted Flair, so Abyss attacked him from behind. Terry then slowly got up to help Abyss double-team Morgan, who ran through the men with a double clothesline.

Morgan still wanted a piece of Flair, but Terry took out Morgan's left knee. "Morgan, Morgan" chant as the two big men worked over Morgan as Flair stomped the ring steps. Abyss landed a big splash, then Flair put a boot in Morgan's crotch for the exclamation mark on the post-match attack.

WINNER: Morgan at 0:11. The post-match went on pretty long with Terry and Abyss continually recovering from Morgan's offensive attack, but the angle at least got babyface sympathy on Morgan. TNA has to be careful not killing Morgan's momentum after booking him in three straight PPV main events. Being paired up with Terry following a big #1 contender program is a risky proposition. (n/a)

3 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. JAY LETHAL -- X Division Title match

The announcers were so focused on the X Division Title match that they were produced to spend the first two minutes talking about the Angle-Jarrett deal. Taz said that's coming up next, though. Lethal scored with a handspring back-elbow smash on Kazarian, who tried to scamper to the ring apron, but Lethal yanked him back into the ring. Lethal hit the Lethal Combination, then played to the crowd and stalled for time while having Kazarian down and out. Lethal continued to showboat as if he stopped to take a nap at the one yardline, then finally hit a top-rope elbow drop for a two count. Kazarian then slid to the outside to recover and Lethal complained to the ref about the nearfall. Lethal and Kazarian re-entered the ring and Kazarian suddenly rolled up Lethal and hooked the ropes for additional leverage to score a three count. Rookie referee Jackson James missed the call, again, which the announcers noted.

WINNER: Kazarian at 4:33 to retain the X Title. Hard to get sympathy on a babyface character when he's showboating, stalling, and doing everything but trying to win a match. Not enough time for the match to stand out or be anything more than filler leading to the Angle-Jarrett business. (*)

4 -- JEFF HARDY vs. TOMMY DREAMER

Taz called the match-up a "clash of styles from a physical standpoint." Dreamer landed a clothesline sending Hardy to the floor, then landed another clothesline from the ring apron. Taz wondered aloud if Dreamer was wearing knickers. Tenay called his ring attire a potential "fashion risk." The announcers then plugged Mr. Anderson vs. Jeff Hardy for the TNA Title on the February 3 Impact. Back in the ring, Hardy took control and played to the crowd. He then executed an innovative slingshot out of the corner into a low dropkick in one motion.

Hardy slapped on a headlock, which Dreamer fought out of while selling a knee injury. Dreamer chopped his legs executing short-arm clotheslines before avoiding Whisper in the Wind. Dreamer wanted a move from the second rope, but Hardy blocked with a boot to the gut. Dreamer came back with the Dreamer Driver and Hardy put his foot on the bottom rope to avoid a three count.

Hardy rolled underneath the ropes and kicked the bottom rope into Dreamer's crotch. Hardy then nailed the Twist of Hate back in the ring and it was good for a three count. Hardy gloated about his win and the announcers plugged Hardy's TNA Title return match in two weeks on Impact.

WINNER: Hardy at 4:21. Okay match. There's only so much movement that can be created in a Tommy Dreamer match. At the end of the day, the match served its purpose warming up Hardy for his title re-match in two weeks. (*)

5 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. TNA World Hvt. champion MR. ANDERSON & ROB VAN DAM -- non-title match

The bell sounded 31 minutes into the second hour to begin the main event. The match wasn't joined in progress, but it seemed to be already in progress with RVD and Roode exchanging offense at a rate typically reserved for the middle of a match. Anderson then tagged in and Beer Money cut off his offense to begin working over the champ. RVD eventually hot-tagged into the match at 6:00 and caught Storm with a leaping thrust kick. RVD wanted Rolling Thunder, but Roode grabbed his foot from the outside. Storm then tried to end it on RVD with a backstabber, but RVD kicked out in time. Beer Money wanted the DWI, but Anderson broke it up and four-way action broke out.

On the outside, Roode and Anderson battled. In the ring, RVD and Storm went through a finishing sequence that included RVD hitting a Five-Star Frogsplash on Storm. For no reason, ref Jackson James bailed from the ring to argue with Jeff Hardy, who emerged on the floor. RVD casually walked around in the ring after seeing that a pinfall would not be happening following the Five-Star. Suddenly, a rough-looking individual wearing a flannel shirt and jeans entered the ring. The announcers said it was Matt Hardy. Hardy dropped RVD with the Twist of Hate, then hid on the outside. The ref re-entered the ring and Storm pinned RVD for the win. Post-match: The Hardys and Beer Money backed up the entrance ramp gloating about the win as RVD sold disbelief in the ring.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 8:07. Rushed tag match that served two purposes of advancing RVD's frustrating quest to get his hands on Jeff Hardy and continue building toward some sort of breaking point in ref Jackson James's incompetency/Immortal collusion angle. It's like the DiBiase Losing Streak angle where the audience doesn't care, but they just want to get to the breaking point already. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 01:55 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_46972.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. R-TRUTH

Del Rio backed Truth into the corner and kicked him in the ribs. Truth caught Del Rio with a clothesline out of the corner. Del Rio fled to ringside, where Truth came after him. Back in the ring, Truth worked Del Rio into an arm-bar. Backstage, the camera was running into Teddy Long’s office. Doctors, Dolph Ziggler, Vickie Guerrero…and is that Michael Tarver standing over an apparently unconscious Long? They called for paramedics as the camera went back to the ring. Hurricanrana off the top by Truth. Mathews brought up Long’s past heart issues as Del Rio rolled to ringside, trying to recover.

Back with Del Rio in control out of break. Mathews touched on the “developing situation” with Teddy Long backstage. Cole said EMT’s have arrived backstage. No one has mentioned Tarver, or whoever that was, with Vickie and Ziggler in Long’s office. Rear chinlock by Del Rio. Truth fought out but fell victim to a drop toe-hold. Back to Long’s office, where Teddy was strapped onto a stretcher. Vickie was nearly in hysterics, but a doctor said Long has a good pulse but is unconscious. One of the EMT’s looks like Jamie Noble. Tony Garea ushered Tarver out of the office at the behest of the doctor. Cole said he’s hearing that Long has suffered severe trauma to the back of the head. Enziguiri by Del Rio, but he was then backed into the corner. Big hip-toss by Truth. Rodriguez grabbed Truth’s foot, and Del Rio came from behind and draped the arm of Truth over the top rope. Cross arm-breaker in the ring, but Truth was close to the ropes. He couldn’t reach, and had to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 10:48. Just kinda there, as a back-drop to a discussion of the Corre, and Long’s health. Does he really need Rodriguez to help him beat Truth?

2 – LAYLA vs. BETH PHOENIX

Layla kicked at Beth’s legs, but Beth caught her in the giant swing. She just ran over Layla, garnering a two count after that. Layla countered a powerslam, and took Beth down while working the arm. Cover by Layla for two. Modified key-lock applied by Layla. Cole admitted he had no idea what Striker was talking about. That’s a great thing for your lead announcer to admit. Phoenix came back with rights, then a clothesline. She looks like she’s actively trying not to hurt Layla. Slingshot suplex for a two-count. Phoenix was still favoring her arm. Layla tried another arm-bar, but Beth countered, and a Glam Slam followed.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 3:35. A lot of losses piling up for LayCool…I can see this leading to the recruitment of Awesome Kong.

3 – REY MYSTERIO vs. “DASHING” CODY RHODES

Our new HD TV always has trouble during Rey’s entrance. Rhodes got the early advantage with a hard clothesline, but Rey came back with a headscissors take-down. Back to Rhodes, who kicked at Rey’s leg. The announcers discussed the Rumble match early on. Rhodes tossed Rey under the bottom rope, but Rey just rolled and landed on his feet. Rhodes went to the outside and received a drop toe-hold into the steel steps. Back in the ring, Mysterio dropped the dime off the top for a two-count. Cole announced that we’d get an update on Long’s condition in a matter of moments. Springboard cross-body for a two-count. Side Russian leg-sweep from Rhodes for two. Why are the announcers not asking the obvious question about Tarver’s presence? Mysterio kicked Rhodes into position, then connected on the 619. In the face! Off the top rope, a splash by Mysterio, followed by a three-count.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 4:00. Nice match while it lasted, but ultimately didn’t mean a whole lot.

4 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON – AMATEUR WRESTLING CHALLENGE

Striker described the rules before the match. Ten seconds in to the first three-minute round, he got a two-point take-down. It was 2-1 at the :40 mark. Another take-down for two points by Swagger. Swagger was letting Kofi get up, giving him another point. Swagger even had the amateur head-gear. Two points for Swagger, and he may have been able to pin him, but his ego again getting in the way. Another point for Kofi in getting up. Swagger argued that he should be awarded two more points because Kofi was on his back for two seconds. They changed the ruling to an 8-4 score. Another take-down with 30 seconds to go. Swagger was on Kofi’s back and did some trash talking. Take-down for Kofi with ten dseconds to go. He kept Swagger on his back and the clock ran out with Swagger up 10-9. I guess that’s the only round. Swagger did get the win.

WINNER: Swagger, at 3:00, by a score of 10-9. The format was not really well executed, and the whole bit felt tacked-on.

5 – TRENT BARRETA vs. DREW MCINTYRE

During Drew’s entrance, they showed the attack on Barreta backstage last week, and Kelly Kelly telling McIntyre to take a hike. “He cannot let this woman cloud his career,” said Cole, presumably of Kelly (but it could be WWE’s way of talking about Tiffany). McIntyre got the advantage, but Barreta nailed McIntyre with a big dropkick. Kicks to the chest from Barreta. He tried a springboard move, but McIntyre caught him and powerbombed him. Somehow, that got only two. McIntyre put Barreta on the top rope, but Barreta fought back. Barreta set up from the top, but McIntyre climbed the ropes and hip-tossed him off. Mathews predicted that would finish it and surprisingly, it did.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 2:06.

6 – EDGE vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

I love how they never bothered to clarify what Grisham’s update on Long was going to be when he was interrupted by A-Ri. Edge hammered away on Gabriel. Gabriel missed a kick and Edge hit the Edge-O-Matic for two. Gabriel came back by choking Edge in the corner with his foot. Edge sent Gabriel crashing to the floor, while the rest of Corre watched from ringside. They went to break under 3:00 into the match.

Gabriel had the advantage, and got it during the break by kicking out Edge’s leg when the champ was on the apron. Edge elbowed out of a rest-hold and both men struggled to get to their feet. STO by Gabriel, who then went to the top rope. Edge rolled out of the way then got up. He tried to dive at Edge, but Edge dropkicked him. Once both men got up, Gabriel again found himself crashing to the floor. Edge kept an eye on the rest of Corre while he put Gabriel in the ring. Gabriel met Edge at the top rope and attempted to suplex him down. Edge held on and headbutted Gabriel down. He perched himself on the top rope, then came down with a cross-body for a very near-fall. Edge wet up for a Spear, but took out Barrett, who got on the apron to distract. While the ref dealt with that, Edge speared Slater, who was also on the apron. He couldn’t avoid a hard clothesline by Jackson though, and Gabriel picked up the pinfall win.

WINNER: Gabriel, at 10:30. Decent enough match, with a Corre/Nexus member finally getting a win in a meaningful match, even if it was due to distraction.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 23 2011, 02:00 pm
My apologies for not posting the results of the wrestling shows due to a recent death in my family. My schedule is more or less back to normal now.

To view all of the wrestling results from the beginning of 2011, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #10,901 (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3119221&postcount=10901) and posts thereafter. Thank you.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 26 2011, 01:05 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_47036.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EDGE vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. DREW MCINTYRE vs. TYSON KIDD -- Over-the-top rope match

Jack Swagger stormed the ring, followed by Drew McIntyre, then Tyson Kidd. Edge fought them all off, then tossed Kidd over the top rope. McIntyre then blasted Edge with a boot to the head. Mac proceeded to drape Edge over the top rope, but Swagger jumped Mac from behind. Edge then tossed Swagger over the top rope. It was Mac and Edge left in the ring. Mac tried the Future Shock, but Edge dumped him over the top rope. So, none of the three gets the #40 slot.

WINNER: Edge at 1:07.

2 -- JOHN MORRISON & MARK HENRY vs. KING SHEAMUS & ALBERTO DEL RIO

Cole made light of Jerry Lawler's Royal Rumble history and excitedly said WrestleMania Season begins at the Rumble. It should have begun weeks ago. Sheamus and Del Rio isolated Morrison early on. Morrison then flipped the tables and the heels retreated on the outside as they cut to break.

Back from break, the heels were working over Morrison as Cole talked up Del Rio's recent mean streak. Suddenly, they cut to a shot of Michael Tarver watching the match on a backstage monitor. Cole and Lawler said he was lurking around all day before the show. Ol' Tarver was at the scene of Teddy Long's attack on Smackdown. Maybe something, maybe nothing. Back in the ring, Morrison tried to fight back against Sheamus, who cut him off and continued to wear down Morrison. In the big "turning point" spot of the match, Sheamus missed with a Brogue Kick and Morrison slingshot him across the top rope.

Morrison tagged in Henry, who quickly went to work on Del Rio. Henry fired up the crowd, then made a cover, but Sheamus broke it up. Henry slowly stood up to ask Sheamus if he really just did that. Henry then pounded on Sheamus, clotheslined Del Rio, and turned around to take the Brogue Kick square in the face. Morrison dropped Sheamus to the outside, though, then nailed a corkscrew splash ringside. Morrison instantly sold his left knee. Back in the ring, Del Rio suddenly dropped Henry to the mat with the cross armbreaker and Henry furiously tapped out to sell the submission move. Del Rio celebrated and was proclaimed the winner to a strong heel reaction. They went to a replay of Morrison selling his knee injury before the finish.

WINNERS: Del Rio & Sheamus via submission at 10:05. Good tag match designed to each of the four men's chances of winning the Rumble match on Sunday. The slow first eight minutes paid off in the end after they built to a nice two-minute finish that the crowd was hot for. (**)

3 -- Divas champion NATALYA vs. MELINA -- Divas Title match

The match quickly moved to the outside where Melina gained control. In the ring, Melina applied a unique submission trying to stretch Natalya. Melina then tried to a kick to the mid-section, but Natalya grabbed Melina's foot and fluidly transitioned into the Sharpshooter. Natalya even leaned back on the Sharpshooter to where her shoulders were nearly on the mat, and Melina tapped out.

WINNER: Natalya via submission at 2:47. Good match. It could have meant more if given more time, but they put together a nice match for only three minutes. (*)

4 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE vs. WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) -- non-title match

Everyone was so concerned about Teddy Long's condition that no one brought it up. It's like the Paul Bearer murder angle where WWE struggles to maintain a consistent tone when they run an angle beyond the scope of a wrestling show. After burying the lead, Cole finally mentioned they will have an update on Long later in the show. In the ring, Edge and Miz started off with a feeling-out process as Ziggler and Vickie shared sweet words with each other. They sounded like NPR radio hosts ripe for an SNL parody. For the first move of the match, Edge knocked Miz to the outside and they cut to break three minutes in.

Back from break, Miz and Edge traded control as Lawler went through more insults aimed at Vickie. Ziggler seems too nice to be a top heel. Cole called it confidence from Ziggler. Lawler continued to run through his jokes as they cut away from the ring to a shot of the announcers. Edge set up for the Spear at 7:00, but Miz ducked to the outside. Edge sold his ribs, but whipped Miz hard into the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Miz cut off Edge up top. He wanted a superplex, but Edge head butted him down to the mat. Edge then came off the top with a cross-body block for a nearfall. Edge then clutched his ribs and Ziggler noted that might have taken more out of Edge than Miz and criticized him for a poor decision. Ziggler said he wants to beat the champion at 100 percent. Edge then missed with a corner splash and Miz dropped Edge across the top rope to continue focusing on the ribs. Miz slowly looked around the arena, which signaled another break was coming. It's a rare three-segment match, but they were only 9:40 in when they headed to the next break.

Back from break at 12:50, Miz was pounding away on Edge as Ziggler talked about his match strategy against Edge at the Rumble. Ziggler continued to get over the idea that he will fairly approach Edge in their sporting event contest at the pay-per-view event on Sunday. Cole randomly referenced Lou Thesz, Bruno Sammartino, and Shawn Michaels, then explained he was endorsing Miz in that category. Ziggler and Vickie agreed with Lawler that they don't see it with Miz. Ziggler said it's time for a change with him as champ and Edge out of the way.

Miz measured Edge for a corner clothesline, but Edge moved and rolled up Miz for a close two count. Riley then tried to grab Edge's foot from the outside, which drew Edge to the outside. Edge stared down Riley, then returned to the ring, where Miz tried a small package roll-up for a nearfall. Edge then bumped Riley off the ring apron, kicked Miz in the gut, and landed a DDT center ring. The crowd started chanting, "Spear, Spear," as Edge backed up to a neutral corner. He wanted the Spear, but "fair play" Ziggler grabbed Edge from behind for a DQ.

WINNER: Edge via DQ at 16:40. A lot to review from this sequence. The commentary was a bit of a distraction at times and shifted the focus away from the match. It seemed like the audience only saw three minutes of action in the near-17-minute. Before the post-match, Orton almost seemed like a lost player in WWE land until his big spot on the show dropping heels with signature moves. The crowd being red-hot for Orton helped sell Orton vs. Miz more than anything WWE has really done thus far. (**)

5 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & BELLAS (NIKKI & BRIE) vs. TED DIBIASE & MARYSE & ALICIA FOX

Bryan and DiBiase started things off with some basic offense. Maryse had enough of DiBiase's inability to defeat Bryan...after 20 seconds, so she tagged herself in, much to DiBiase's chagrin. That also meant one of the Bellas had to enter the ring. While Maryse and Brie battled, Nikki tried to work on DiBiase on the ring apron. Brie took exception to Nikki's tactics, then Maryse rolled her up from behind. Post-match: More drama with the Bellas arguing amongst themselves and Bryan trying to calm them down. On the other side, Maryse high-fived Michael Cole, then tried to show off in front of an upset DiBiase.

WINNERS: Maryse & Fox & DiBiase at 0:59. Oh, the humanity. (n/a)

6 -- WWE tag champion SANTINO (w/Tamina) vs. NEW NEXUS (HUSKY HARRIS w/ Michael McGillicutty, Mason Ryan, and David Otunga) -- non-title match

Lawler absolutely cut a promo on Cole, calling him a liar about the Tag Title false announcement and having his head so far up Miz's back side that he's lost sight of the show. They seem to be building to that inevitable Cole vs. Lawler match. Santino was sporting some new blue basketball shoes, which seemed somewhat silly.

Harris took apart Santino with power offense, building to Santino making a comeback without a hot tag. He teased the Cobra, but Mike threw off Santino, allowing Harris to drop Santino with a clothesline. He followed with an inverted facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Harris at 3:50. Random match that was clearly presented as filler. Cole's Tag Title announcement threw off the entire exchange for the TV audience. (3/4*)

7 -- WADE BARRETT (w/The Corre) vs. C.M. PUNK (w/New Nexus) -- John Cena special referee -- Loser's team out of the Rumble

Cena finally called for the bell and opened the match by punking both men, trying to draw a DQ from one or the other. Cena then dumped Punk over the top rope, which would have been good for a Rumble elimination. Cole noted that as well. Punk ran back in the ring with a clenched fist, but did not strike Cena. Punk had a pin on Barrett, but Cena suddenly left the ring and started signing autographs for fans on the front row. Cena "realized" there was something going on in the ring and returned to the ring to "apologize" to Barrett, who was now in control.

After a double knockdown, Cena suddenly called for the bell. He DQ'ed both wrestlers for "excessive use of profanity," claiming it's a PG show. (Instead of doing the PG excuse, an easier one would have been they failed to answer a ten count he made up in his head, which would have avoided the inevitable and unproductive PG reminder.) He then told Roberts that both Corre and Nexus are out of the Rumble. Roberts made the official announcement, the crowd popped, and viewers were given a brief and scary pause trying to think of how WWE would fill nine fewer slots than the current 26 slots (25 heading into Raw + Mason Ryan) for the 40-man Rumble.

WINNER: Double DQ at 2:01.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 27 2011, 02:25 pm
WWE NXT Results: 1-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_47080.shtml)

The following are news and notes from the Tuesday, January 25 episode of WWE NXT Season 4.

-- Brodus Clay has switched Pros to Alberto Del Rio, leaving Ted DiBiase without a Rookie on the current season.

The main event saw Clay defeat Johnny Curtis, Byron Saxton, and Derrick Bateman in a four-way elimination match. The winner received the option to switch Pros, which led to Clay dropping DiBiase in exchange for Del Rio. Del Rio's Rookie, Conor O'Brian, was cut from NXT on last week's episode.

-- The other match on the show was Ted DiBiase defeating U.S. champion Daniel Bryan in a non-title match. The match was given nearly 13 minutes and featured several believable nearfalls before DiBiase won with Dream Street.

-- The "Immunity Standings" were reset after last week's elimination, but no Rookies picked up points this week. The lone Rookie Challenge on the show was "Out-think the Fink" - a trivia contest.

Howard Finkel made a cameo appearance to set the bar for the contest. Fink answered two trivia questions, and none of the Rookies answered more than one question correctly. Therefore, all four lost the contest.

-- WWE did not announce when the next elimination will occur. Also not revealed yet on Season 4 is the length of the season.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 29 2011, 02:40 pm
ROH on HDNet Results: 1-24-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10016370.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Bravado Brothers defeated Adam Cole and Kyle O'Reilly at 8:53. Cole and Lance started. Cole hit an arm drag and tagged in O'Reilly. Cole tagged back in quickly and ate a dropkick when Harlem tagged in. Cole came right back and he and O'Reilly continued to work in and out quickly on Harlem.

Cole went to the second rope and Harlem pulled him down to take control. The Bravados worked in and out quickly. Cole reversed a whip to the corner into a heel kick and made the hot tag to O'Reilly. He hit a missile dropkick on both Bravados and then two butterfly suplexes into a DDT for a near fall.

The Bravados snuck back in and hit a kick into a german suplex for a two. Cole and O'Reilly hit a superkick into a discuss clothesline for two. Cole and O'Reilly setup for their finisher, but the Bravados broke it up and scored a surprise rollup for the win…The announce team hyped the main event and Homicide confronting Jim Cornette next…[C]

Shore's Slant: We saw this match in Charlotte and it was my buddy's favorite. I think you saw why here. Both of these teams will certainly be on the Dot Net awards voting for next year. I love both groups, but I think the Bravados might be the better team right now.

2. Homicide defeated Ryan Bishop at 3:30. Homicide attacked quickly and spent most of the match in control. He even bit Bishop's ear at one point. Homicide won with the Ace Crusher…

3. The World's Greatest Tag Team defeated The All Night Express in 13:00. Kenny King and Shelton Benjamin started. They mat wrestled and King got the best at first. They ran the ropes and King did a leap frog and posed. Benjamin stopped and slapped King and tagged in Haas.

Haas slammed King's arm into the turnbuckle to work it, but King drove him back to the corner and tagged Titus. Titus hit a kick, but Haas grabbed the next one and scored a leg whip. Benjamin tagged back in and continued to work the leg, but King hit a cheap shot and the ANX took control.

King jumped over the top rope and hooked Benjamin's arm on the rope. He and Titus worked in and out on Benjamin's arm. Benjamin hit a kick out of nowhere and tagged Haas/ King didn't tag and Haas attacked. He ended taking out both men and sending Titus to the floor.

All four men ended up in the ring and Benjamin and King took each other out to the floor. The Kings of Wrestling ran out and slammed King into a camera man before fleeing to the back. In the ring, Haas hit a flapjack onto the ropes on Titus and then held him for Benjamin to do the splash across the back on the ropes. Haas hit a bridging German suplex for the win…

Shore's Slant: I apparently had too much good over the weekend because I was unable to see most of the last four minutes of tha match due to technical difficulty. Nevertheless, what I saw was as good as I expected. I would much rather see this on PPV or a house show where they would get great time, but 13 minutes ain't bad.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 29 2011, 02:41 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 1-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Errickson's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_47129.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta went on offense first by throwing Reks in the corner. Reks then landed several big bodyblocks and Trent fought back with several slaps to the face. Reks with a huge knee after an Irish Whip, followed by a reverse powerslam. Reks then went to work on Barreta's chest with several huge knees for a two count. Reks then attempted another knee to Barreta's face, but he missed badly. Barreta tried to fight back with several kicks of his own. Barreta then landed a sweeping clothesline for a two count. Another knee by Barreta for another two count. Barreta went to the top rope, but Reks knocked him off. Reks picked up Barreta and hit the Burning Hammer for the win.

WINNER: Reks in 6:00. This was your basic squash match with Reks dominating most of the match with the exception of one offensive flurry by Barreta. Typical Superstars match. Also, it looks that will put a temporary end to Barreta's mini-push.

2 -- PRIMO & ZACK RYDER vs. YOSHI TATSU & DAVID HART SMITH

Smith and Ryder start. Smith on offense first with an armdrag. He then applied a side headlock, but Ryder fought out. Another armdrag by Smith. Smith then went to work on Ryder's arm. Tag to Tatsu and Ryder kneed Tatsu in the gut before tagging in Primo. Tatsu then landed several Japanese arm drags. Tag to Smith. Double kick to Primo's gut. Huge belly-to-belly suplex by Smith, which was good for a two count. Tag to Yoshi, who went to work on Primo's arm. Tag to Smith, who executed a vertical suplex for a two count. Primo then left the ring, and upon his attempted return, Smith kicked him as they cut to commercial.

Back from commercial at 6:55, Primo had Smith in a headlock. Primo and Ryder worked over Smith, who countered a roll-up for a two count. Ryder then applied a headlock that Smith fought out of with several punches to the gut. Tag to Primo, who landed a flying headbutt. Tag to Ryder, who started kicking Smith in the head. Smith then made a comeback with a back suplex. Double tags. Yoshi landed several chops to Primo's chest followed by a dropkick. Huge knee to the face by Yoshi for a two count. Yoshi went to the top rope and landed a big spinning heel kick for a two count. After some interference by Smith and Ryder, Primo then landed the backstabber out of nowhere on Tatsu for the 1-2-3.

WINNERS: Ryder & Primo in 11:30. I feel like I have seen some variation of this tag match for the last four weeks. Please, WWE, give me something different to cover next week. The crowd is crazy for Tatsu, but they still never really got into the match.

3 -- R-TRUTH vs. TYSON KIDD

R-Truth started the match with some dancing while Kidd looked on. Big "Truth" chant. Kidd on offense first with an armdrag. He then slapped on a headlock. Truth fought out with an Irish Whip followed by a Kidd bodyblock. Irish Whip by Kidd followed by a Truth body block. Kick to the gut by Kidd followed by an elbow to Truth's neck. Kidd then threw Truth in the corner, but his offense was reversed by Truth. Big hip toss by Truth. The wrestlers then clotheslined each other out of the ring as they cut to commercial.

Back from commercial at 8:06, Kidd had Truth in a headlock. Truth eventually fought out after quite some time. Elbow to the groin area by Kidd, which was good for a one count. Huge kick to Truth's face. Elbow to Truth's head followed by another kick. Kidd then slapped on another headlock. Truth fought out with punches to Kidd's gut followed by a belly-to-belly suplex by Truth. Both men got back up, clotheslines by Truth followed by one of Truth's signature maneuvers for a two count. Kidd with a spinning heel kick, followed by a dropkick for a two count. Kidd tried to apply the Sharpshooter, but he failed. Kidd with a failed roll-up, then Truth hit the What's Up reverse STO for the victory.

WINNER: R-Truth in 12:30. Finally, someone new on Supetstars. Is it really that difficult to present one new Superstar each week, or at least every other week? I remember a few months ago when there would be matches involving Kofi Kingston, The Miz, Chris Jericho, or Goldust. Now, it seems like the same wrestlers in the same tag matches every week on Superstars. That's one aspect of the show that's frustrating.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 29 2011, 02:44 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 1-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_47130.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- SARITA & TARA & Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE vs. MICKIE JAMES & ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY -- six-Knockouts elimination tag match

Referee Jackson James has this assignment. The first portion of the match built toward a hot tag for Mickie to get her hands on Rayne, but Rayne scampered to the heel corner to escape Mickie's grasp. A graphic came on the screen advertising TNA champ Mr. Anderson vs. Jeff Hardy next week. The action completely broke down, then Sarita rolled up Velvet for the first elimination. Mickie then pinned Madison after another brawl. Suddenly, Sarita rolled up Mickie for the next elimination. Angelina was the last babyface left. They cut to break with Angelina against Sarita.

Back from break, Angelina tried to fight against the two-on-one odds. Eventually, she avoided a double-team attempt and scored a desperation pin on Tara. It was down to Angelina vs. Sarita, who attempted a quick roll-up, but Angelina rolled through into a roll-up for the win.

WINNER: Angelina in 10:00.

2 -- CHRIS SABIN vs. AMAZING RED vs. MAX BUCK (w/Jeremy Buck)

The match started with a bunch of rapid-fire moves and attempted pin attempts by each participant in the match. Sabin found himself on the outside as the other two men battled in the ring. Red wanted a top-rope move, but Jeremy crotched him from the outside. Max then hit a DDT on Red to score the win.

WINNER: Max Buck in 5:00. One-half of the X Title match is set with Kazarian vs. Max Buck vs. ??? vs. ???. Too many rapid-fire moves that meant nothing at the end continuing to reinforce the idea that the X Division is an opening-match act. (*)

3 -- TNA World Hvt. champion MR. ANDERSON vs. MATT HARDY -- non-title match

Hardy targeted Anderson's left arm early in the match while the announcers talked about Carter having the legal ruling next week. Ref Hebner then interjected himself into the match as Hardy continued to work over Anderson, who was making Hardy look good here selling Hardy's offense. Anderson then made a comeback using his one good arm.

Anderson attempted a move from the fireman's carry position, but Hardy countered with a fireman's carry toss. He then started doing his little dance for the Twist of Fate, but Anderson countered into a forward roll for a nearfall. Anderson wanted the mic check, but Hardy blocked and hit the side effect for a nearfall that Anderson turned into a crucifix pin for the win.

WINNER: Anderson at 4:06. It will be difficult for Hardy to turn back the clock to 1999, so he just needs to embrace his inner Kevin Steen and become a brawler-type wrestler. It would make him a more effective heel. (*)

Post-match: Jeff Hardy ran down the ramp and attacked Anderson from behind. Jeff rolled Anderson into the ring and the Hardys put a beat down on Anderson. Suddenly, a man in jean shorts and a t-shirt came running into the ring. It was Rob Van Dam. The Hardys quickly bailed, including Jeff doing sort of a somersault dive over the guardrail onto the floor. Matt left the ring clutching his braids.

4-- IMMORTAL (JEFF JARRETT & BEER MONEY & KAZARIAN & ROB TERRY & GUNNER & MURPHY w/Ric Flair, A.J. Styles, and Karen Angle) vs. KURT ANGLE & CRIMSON -- handicap match

The bell sounded and Roode stomped and kicked away on Crimson. Crimson gained control, then tagged in Angle, who put the boots to Roode. Kazarian tagged in and Angle worked him over before James Storm tagged in and Angle worked him over. Suddenly, Storm dropped Angle with a backstabber to cut off Angle. The ref was bumped when Storm missed with a superkick, then the action completely broke down. The crowd was quiet as the heels stomped away on Angle. Suddenly, Jeff Jarrett's music hit. Jarrett, with Karen, slowly made his way to the ring. Karen sold being nervous about these proceedings. Jarrett measured Angle for a cheap shot, but Angle ducked a landed a German suplex. Immortal then jumped Angle again and pounded on him.

Jarrett nailed The Stroke on Angle. Jarrett then called for a new referee to enter the ring. Jackson James was Johnny on the spot as the replacement referee and he counted a quick three count for Jarrett on Angle. Tenay called it "bulls---." Taz said perhaps Angle's back-up got stuck in traffic.

WINNERS: Team Immortal at 4:24.

Post-match: Immortal continued to pound on Angle after the match. Suddenly, Matt Morgan's music hit and Morgan stormed the ring in street clothes. Morgan landed some punches before the numbers game caught up to Morgan. They couldn't get Morgan off his feet for a few moments before finally getting him down on the mat.

Suddenly, the lights went off and the familiar siren played in the Impact Zone. Scott Steiner was in the ring sporting the classic Main Event Mafia garb. "Holy s---, it's Scott Steiner," Taz said. Steiner pointed his weapon toward Immortal before making threats to kick all of their asses. Angle and Morgan recovered in the ring while Steiner told all of them they're dead. The show signed off with Angle smiling toward Steiner, who pointed his pipe toward Angle out of respect
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 29 2011, 02:44 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 1-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_47165.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – LAYCOOL vs. KELLY KELLY & KAITLYN

The match began after Kaitlyn hit a double-clothesline in the ring. Bodyslam on McCool, then Layla tried to interfere. When Kaitlyn turned around, she was met with an awesome boot to the face by McCool, who got the pin. Didn’t McCool nail Kaitlyn with a similarly awesome boot to the face in NXT Season 3?

WINNERS: LayCool, at :40. Just a quick win for LayCool to get them over as a threat to the Divas Title on Sunday. They’ve been losing a lot lately, so even though it’s two-on-one, getting them a win before the PPV was smart.

2 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. JTG

JTG fired away with rights, then dropkicked McIntyre to ringside. McIntyre pulled JTG outside and decked him right in front of Kelly. He then pounded JTG’s head into the ring steps. Couple swinging neckbreakers back in the ring. “Who knows what’s going through Kelly Kelly’s head, if anything,” quipped Cole. How did the announcers no-sell that? McIntyre angrily put his hands through his hair as if he were entering another zone. Dropkick by McIntyre for only a one-count. JTG built some momentum and hooked in a crucifix roll-up for a near-fall. That was all the offense he could get during that exchange. McIntyre locked JTG in a rest-hold, while the crowd chanted “JTG.” Backslide by the former Cryme Tyme member for two. Another backslide, but McIntyre rolled through, hands locked, for the Future Shock DDT and the win. Nice counter.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 4:37. Give McIntyre credit for helping make undercard guys like Trent Barreta and JTG look good.

3 – ROYAL RUMBLE EXHIBITION

Seth Allen was the first one out there to face Del Rio. He lasted just under 30 seconds. Mike Stevens followed Allen, while the announcers made fun of Striker for knowing anything about these guys. Even the 30 second interval is gimmicked. As he tossed Stevens, Kane came out. This was clearly not in Del Rio’s plans. Uppercut by Kane, who then missed a corner charge. Enziguiri by Del Rio, but he ran into a chokeslam. And as Kane had Del Rio in a choke, Kofi Kingston came out. He eliminated both men at the same time, at about 2:45. Del Rio and Kane stalked Kingston and were prepared to take him out until Rey Mysterio charged the ring. The four men faced off but didn’t touch before Vickie Guerrero came out. She made a tag match between the four, which starts next.

WINNER: No Contest, at about 3:45 (no bells). Not a terrible way to showcase the Rumble, and the non-finish doesn’t bother me given that it was an “exhibition” done to get heat on Del Rio and really meant nothing.

4 – ALBERTO DEL RIO & KANE vs. KOFI KINGSTON & REY MYSTERIO

Like the opening tag on Raw this past week, this match seems like it’ll be used as a backdrop for Royal Rumble talk, as well as to discuss each participant’s chances in said match. Striker made a SyFy tie-in, with Merlin airing next, saying someone will need some sorcery to eliminate Kane on Sunday. Cover on Del Rio for two nearly two minutes into the match by Rey. Mysterio did his usual nice job of avoiding Kane, but he dodged a 619 attempt by fleeing the ring. Kane got kicked anyway, then the two heels discussed things on the outside, allowing the faces to take advantage. Kingston flew through the ropes onto Del Rio, while Rey jumped onto Kane with a seated senton. Back in the ring, Kofi went to the top, but Del Rio pushed him off as the ref’s attention was elsewhere. At 4:10, Del Rio tagged in to continue working over Kingston. Sidewalk slam by Kane for two. The heels made frequent tags in order to keep Kingston at bay. Kingston attempted to fight out of the heel corner, and finally made the tag without the two or three teases we’re used to seeing. Mysterio took out Del Rio and made a pin on Kane for two. At 7:50, Mysterio tried a springboard move, but Kane booted him while in mid-air, sending Rey to ringside. They went to break at that point.

Back at nearly the 10:30 mark, with Del Rio elbowing Mysterio down to the mat. Sunset flip by Del Rio, but Rey rolled through and kicked Del Rio in the chops. You’d think wrestlers would stop trying that move on Rey. Gut-buster by Del Rio, as Rey couldn’t recover in time to make a tag. Kane had Rey on his shoulder for a powerslam, but Rey tilt-a-whirled things into a DDT. Both men managed to make tags, with Kofi flying off the top with a cross-body on Del Rio. He was halted though by a back-breaker for two. Del Rio went for the tag, but Kingston had knocked Kane off the apron in Kingston’s flurry. Del Rio argued, allowing Kingston to get the upper hand. Kane broke up the pin, but Del Rio got in Kane’s face. Kane then booted Del Rio in the kisser. He then walked out on his tag team partner. Kingston held Rey while Rey kicked Del Rio in position for the 619. That move connected, as did the Trouble in Paradise for the victory.

WINNERS: Kingston and Mysterio, at 15:38. Slightly above-average, formula WWE tag match. Del Rio taking the pinfall loss here could signal big things for him at the Rumble Sunday. Liked Kane walking out on Del Rio: It fit his character and set up the “every man for himself” aspect of the Rumble.

5 – THE BIG SHOW vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater wasn’t very successful early on, but he went low on Show and took him to one knee. That’s all he could get, as Show clothesline Slater from one knee, then gave him a huge back-body drop. Running shoulder tackle by Show, followed by a chokeslam.

WINNER: Show, at 1:17.

The rest of Corre attacked after the match, with Zeke Jackson being the one to take Show down. Other superstars, including R-Truth, Chris Masters, Santino Marella, Daniel Bryan, and Vladimir Kozlov helped fend off the Corre. Strangely, most of the are Raw guys.

6 – THE MIZ & DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. RANDY ORTON & EDGE

Orton exploded out of the corner with a clothesline on Ziggler. He followed up with a Thesz Press. Edge came off the top with a clothesline on Ziggler after making a tag. Ziggler gained control of Edge, then tagged Miz. Alex Riley decked Edge with a cheap shot as Miz distracted the ref. Edge fired back with a big boot. Orton tagged in and gave Miz a scoop slam. He set up for the RKO by pounding the mat, but they went to break about 3:40 into the match.

Mathews apologized for the abrupt break, which Cole blamed on technical difficulties. Ziggler pulled Orton out of the ring during the break before Orton could land his RKO. Miz worked over Orton with a chinlock, then fed a knee-lift right to Orton’s mid-section. Back-breaker, neck-breaker combo from Miz for a near-fall. Miz went for a corner clothesline, but Orton gave him that move instead. With both men down, Miz made the tag first, but Orton tagged Edge soon after. Edge was a house afire, even knocking Miz off the apron. He lined up for the Spear, then had to knock Riley off the apron. Edge-O-Matic on Ziggler for two. Miz broke up the pin, but Orton took him out, and clotheslined Riley for good measure. Back in the ring, Edge shrugged off a sleeper attempt by Ziggler, speared him, and picked up the win.

WINNERS: Edge and Orton, at 11:24. Curious finish. Wondering what it could mean for the finish of Edge vs. Ziggler on Sunday.

Vickie Guerrero got the mic after the match and said that, in the best interest of Smackdown, the Spear will be banned. Didn’t she do this with the Undertaker’s Hell’s Gate finisher too? Anyway, if Edge uses the move and gets DQ’d this Sunday, he loses his championship. Edge took the news in stride and agreed with Vickie’s decision…just kidding, he speared Ziggler off the apron and again at ringside. Guerrero yelled at Edge as she stood in front of Ziggler. Edge ran at Vickie, who moved, and Edge again speared Ziggler. He better show up to the Rumble on Sunday with taped ribs or something to sell this beating. Edge raised his arms as he posed with the title in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 01 2011, 02:22 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-31-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_47300.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO & KOZLOV (w/Tamina) vs. NEW NEXUS (HUSKY HARRIS & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY) -- WWE Tag Title match

Cole and Lawler discussed Punk and Nexus helping Miz retain the WWE Title over Randy Orton at the Rumble. Cole said he spoke with Miz, who claimed he knew nothing - nothing! - about Nexus's interference ahead of time. Cole heeled on Santino remaining on the floor during the Rumble match, then sneaking in at the end of the match to almost eliminate Del Rio for the win. A graphic came across the screen advertising the world premiere trailer for Triple H's "The Chaperone" movie. Basic back-and-forth action early on. Husky then used his girth to knock around Santino. The heels tagged in and out working over Santino before eventually just knocking Santino to the outside. Tamina checked on him as they cut to break.

Back from break, McGillicutty scored a two count on Santino as Tamina sold concern ringside. Santino tried making a hot tag, but Miek cut him off. Kozlov then popped Mike from the ring apron and dual tags were made. Kozlov and Harris are legal. Kozlov with a boot to the face, then multiple head butts into a chest press for a two count. Santino then blind-tagged into the match and dumped Mike over the top rope. Santino then warmed up the Cobra for Husky, who took the strike. There must be a reason why they had big ol' Husky sell for that. Santino with the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 8:10 to retain the WWE Tag Titles. (*1/4)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Gail Kim) vs. TYSON KIDD -- non-title match

The The Bellas were on commentary for the match heeling on Bryan. They explained the bet was like "Cruel Intentions" trying to be Bryan's first. After some basic action that the announcers didn't focus on, Bryan applied the LeBell Lock for a quick submission victory. Bryan and Gail hugged in the ring as the Bellas said it looks like true affection "for two losers." Gail planted a kiss on Bryan, then the Bellas entered the ring. Gail shoved one of them down, then another catfight broke out. Bryan tried to separate them before refs stormed the ring. Gail and one of the Bellas could not be separated. Bryan eventually separated Gail from Bella #1 to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 1:45. Too short to amount to much. Bryan just has to survive this phase of his WWE "indoctrination" until WWE gives him something to sink his teeth into. (n/a)

3 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. World Hvt. champion EDGE -- non-title match

The bell sounded right at the top of the hour to begin the re-match from last week's Raw. They replayed what happened earlier tonight when Del Rio popped the guitar across Edge's left arm. Edge took control of the match, though, and wasn't showing any ill-effects of the arm-breaker.

Riley then pulled Miz out of the ring to avoid Edge's offensive attack. Miz proceeded to yank Edge's arm over the top rope before ramming him into the ring steps. Cole also provided a medical update on Harris, saying he is undergoing tests backstage after taking the Punt from Orton. Back in the ring, Miz worked over Edge's left arm before Riley landed a cheap shot behind the ref's back. Edge came back with a heel kick to the face, but Miz yanked Edge by the arm to the mat. Miz applied a submission hold, yes, Miz with a submission, wrenching back on Edge's shoulder trying to force a submission. Edge cried out in agony, then escaped, and they had a double knock down.

Edge and Miz beat a ten count and reached their feet simultaneously. Edge dropped Miz with a facejam, then scored a nearfall. Cole and Lawler continued to trade jabs and Toby Keith song references as Edge scored another nearfall on Miz, who fired back with a quick boot to the head for a nearfall. Nice exchange. Miz and Edge, not Cole and Lawler. Miz then went up top for an axehandle, but Edge caught him with a boot to the gut. Edge then measured Miz for the Spear as Riley warned him. Miz side-stepped Edge and Edge ate the turnbuckles.

Suddenly, John Cena's voice interrupted from somewhere in the arena. Cena was up in the skyboxes announcing a party up in here. Cena led the crowd in a coordinated "Miz is Awful" chant. Miz, distracted, then turned around to take a Spear from Edge. It's only illegal on Smackdown. Edge made the cover to score the win on Miz.

WINNER: Edge at 8:54. Pretty good back-and-forth before the "sports entertainment" finish with Cena distracting Miz. The announcing was a distraction, as usual. If WWE can blow off the Cole vs. Lawler deal at Mania (or in the next segment), everyone would benefit. (*3/4)

4 -- Divas champion EVE & NATALYA vs. LAY-COOL (LAYLA & MICHELLE MCCOOL)

McCool wanted no part of Natalya, so she tagged in Layla, who suddenly dropped to the mat and covered herself. Layla then ran over to McCool looking for shelter from big bad Natalya. Eve eventually tagged in and Lay-Cool ran interference. Layla then executed a sort of flip-over jawbreaker from the second rope. She covered Eve for the win. Layla and McCool celebrated, then ran away when Natalya re-entered the ring to check on Eve.

WINNERS: Layla & McCool at 2:42. Not exactly a ringing endorsement of the Divas division for Eve to come out of obscurity to become new champion last night, then taking a loss at the hands of cowardly Layla tonight. Looking for a positive development here, they reinforced Natalya as an intimidating figure.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 01 2011, 02:22 pm
5 -- RAW RUMBLE MATCH

The bell sounded and Morrison and Sheamus picked up their feud. Morrison landed ten punches to the forehead as the countdown clock brought in John Cena as #3. Sheamus waited for Cena, who took his time entering the Rumble after playing to the crowd. Cena landed right hands on Sheamus before executing his trademark offense. Cena and Morrison then squared off and Morrison countered the Attitude Adjustment into a kick strike. The countdown clock wound down again to bring in C.M. Punk as #4. Cole noted Punk lasted longer than anyone else in the Rumble. Punk instantly cleaned house, but no eliminations. Mathews noted Punk will have to do this on his own rather than using New Nexus for back-up. No eliminations, but Sheamus had a handful of Cena's crotch in a close-up shot.

Out as #5 was R-Truth. Truth danced to the ring and ran over Cena for his first target. Truth then tried to eliminate Morrison, who skinned the cat back into the ring. Morrison then tried to eliminate Truth, but they both skinned the can back into the ring. Well, except for Truth, who had trouble skinning the cat and threw himself back through the middle rope. Not quite Kozlov quality. Punk then dropped Cena with a DDT as they reached #6, Jerry Lawler. Cole sighed as Lawler jogged to the ring. Punk wanted Lawler, who landed right hands on everyone. "Jerry, Jerry" chant as he cleaned house. He nearly eliminated Punk, but Sheamus made the save. Sheamus then tried to dump out Lawler as Cole cat-called from the announce table. Lawler held on for dear life.

No eliminations, then Randy Orton came out as #7 to get everyone in the mix. Before Orton entered, though, Punk slid under the ropes to hide under the ring. Orton went looking for Punk under the ring and proceeded to drag Punk out from under the ring. Orton unloaded with right hand blows, then Punk slid back into the ring. Orton followed in and they continued their battle. Orton then clotheslined Punk over the top rope at 8:52 for the first elimination. Truth suddenly clotheslined Orton over the top rope at 8:55. Orton stood up and shot Truth a look. Truth, channeling Aaron Rodgers, just did the belt-around-the-waist motion to tell Orton what it's all about. Hot exchange leading to commercial.

Back from break, the five remaining wrestlers were still in the match. Sheamus was working on Cena in one corner. Lawler and Morrison were working on Truth in another corner. Cena did a Cena Comeback on Sheamus, including the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He then stacked up Morrison and Truth in the corner for a double splash. He went for a double AA and dumped Truth over the top rope, but Morrison held on. Truth out at 13:12. Cena sold a back injury as Morrison and Cena battled on the ring apron. Cena teetered. Morrison with a kick to the back. Sheamus tried to eliminate both of them, but they ducked and Sheamus found himself on the ring apron. The crowd chanted for Jerry to eliminate all three, but Sheamus re-entered the ring and kicked Cena in the head. The action reset at the top of the hour as Morrison and Sheamus battled. Morrison found himself hung up in the ropes, but he saved himself, then tried to eliminate Sheamus, but Sheamus landed a catapult shoulder tackle on Morrison. Cena suddenly slapped on the STF on Sheamus, who tapped out. Morrison then grazed Cena with Starship Pain going for a big move that didn't quite work out. Suddenly, Lawler tried to dump Morrison, but Morrison caught his feet on the ropes again to save himself. Morrison then caught Cena with the flash kick. More back-and-forth action. Sheamus tried to dump Morrison again. Finally, a Brogue Kick eliminated Morrison at 16:48.

So, it's Cena, Lawler, and Sheamus. Lawler tried to eliminate Cena, but Cena held on to the top rope. Sheamus then rocked Lawler and tried to eliminate Cena, who held on to the top rope. Sheamus then bumped Lawler into Cena and Cena was gone. Lawler sold disbelief he eliminated Cena. Sheamus then tried to tackle Lawler, but Cena helped pull down the top rope and Sheamus was eliminated. Lawler is the winner. "This is a travesty!" Cole shouted.

WINNER: Lawler at 18:18 to earn a WWE Title shot vs. Miz at the Chamber. Excellent "Rumble" match. It had the "Final Four" elements that were completely missing from the end of last night's Rumble match and really delivered some compelling drama. Lawler's quest was elevated, Morrison was elevated, and WWE delivered just enough of a taste of Orton vs. Punk without giving away the whole thing. Great booking and good use of the "in-between Rumble and WrestleMania" PPV in February to deliver a different type of match with Miz vs. Lawler rather than giving away one of the few matches they actually have in their arsenal to save for WrestleMania. (***1/2)

ORDER OF ENTRY
1 -- John Morrison
2 -- Sheamus
3 -- John Cena
4 -- C.M. Punk
5 -- R-Truth
6 -- Jerry Lawler
7 -- Randy Orton

ORDER OF EXIT

1 -- Punk (via Orton at 8:52)
2 -- Orton (via Truth 8:55)
3 -- Truth (via Cena at 13:12)
4 -- Morrison (via Sheamus at 16:48)
5 -- Cena (via Lawler at 18:05)
6 -- Sheamus (via Lawler at 18:18)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 02 2011, 11:02 pm
WWE NXT Results: 2-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_47347.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. BYRON SAXTON (w/Dolph Ziggler)

Mathews became frustrated trying to figure out the Coaching Carousel in NXT Season 4 so far. Masters overpowered Saxton early on as Ziggler tried to encourage Saxton. Ziggler was selling that he wasn't all-in this week fresh off his World Title loss at the Royal Rumble. Masters snapped off an overhead suplex, then stalked Saxton. "Come on, Saxton, whatcha you got?" Saxton landed a boot to the stomach before crashing down on Masters's back from the second rope. Saxton then applied an armbar that Masters powered out of. Masters, with one good arm, dropped Saxton with a power clothesline before landing a big spinebuster. Masters turned up the volume and called for the Masterlock. Masters slapped on his finisher and Ziggler had a towel in his hand with the "tormented facial expression" teasing throwing in the towel. No matter, as Saxton tapped out anyways. Mathews had a good laugh at Saxton's expense.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:13. Dominating match for Masters, which is exactly what it should have been. It looks like Byron's number is up next week.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY (w/Ricardo) vs. TED DIBIASE

The camera focused on Maryse walking to the announce table as DiBiase tried to wear down Clay with a reverse chinlock. DiBiase popped Clay with a kick to the head before Grisham celebrated Maryse giving him her number. On the outside, DiBiase popped Clay with a running dropkick, showing aggression. Grisham said the number is 555-1212. A random Pro's voice was heard as DiBiase and Clay returned to the ring where Clay executed a Tazplex on DiBiase. Maryse seemed indifferent ringside as Clay wore down DiBiase. She took out her phone and snapped a picture of the action in the ring for some reason. Is she scouting? Who knows.

Clay continued to dominate DiBiase before Maryse backed up to the ring to take a picture of herself with the action in the background. DiBiase suddenly took out Clay at the knee. Instead of going to work on Clay, he became distracted as Maryse teased planting a kiss on Grisham before slapping Grisham. DiBiase then turned around to take a powerslam from Clay for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 4:29. DiBiase's woes continue as DiBiase and Maryse move closer to a blow-up.

3 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. R-TRUTH & JOHNNY CURTIS

The announcers focused on Bryan's love of submission wrestling, which is depicted on his official WWE t-shirt, as Truth and Bateman started things off. Curtis and Bateman then exchanged holds and came to a stand-off. A Pro randomly started an "E-C-W" chant before his mic was cut off. Bateman and Curtis then took the fight to the floor. A scrap was on and their Pros had to separate them. Bateman sold fire in his eyes as they cut to break.

Back from break, Bateman and Curtis were having a civilized wrestling match in the ring. Mathews said he thinks Saxton is in trouble next week. Bateman ran over Curtis with a shoulder tackle and scored a two count. Bryan then tagged in and landed a kick strike on Curtis. Mathews said he heard this is the last season of NXT before saying he doesn't even know if that's true. "So, you're making up news?" Grisham asked. Bryan worked over Curtis as Mathews quipped that Korpela and Stanford are going to join them next season to form a four-man booth.

Bateman tagged in and worked on Curtis's knee as Mathews began talking to the voices in his headset. "Like Orton?" Grisham asked. Curtis exploded out of the corner with a roundhouse kick and continued to sell the knee before rolling over Truth to make a tag. Truth and Bryan in. Truth fired off a round of offense before tagging in Curtis. Double suplex. The action then broke down and Bateman flew to the outside. Truth then splashed Bateman on the outside. Back in the ring, Curtis missed with a top rope splash and Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock center ring. Curtis tried to escape, but quickly tapped once Bryan applied it in full.

Post-match: Bryan and Bateman celebrated while Grisham noted they are 2-0 as a tag team on NXT. They replayed the finish as Mathews set up Bryan and Bateman's quest for the Tag Titles. Grisham signed off noting it's elimination week next week.

WINNERS: Bryan & Bateman via submission at 7:58. Decent action. Nothing that anyone will remember by next week, but they effectively presented Bateman as one of the two favorites, along with Clay, to win the contest.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2011, 02:32 am
ROH on HDNet Results: 1-31-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10016522.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Colt Cabana defeated Mike Mondo at 5:10. Mondo took the match more serious at first and he took early control He hit a flying headbut for two, but missed the second one. Colt hulked up and worked some comedy punches. He setup for the Colt 45, but Mondo reversed into a leg sweep.

Mondo set Cabana on the top turnbuckle and setup for a superplex. Colt reversed and lifted him in a fireman's carry. He dropped down and Mondo slammed on the top rope. He followed with the Billy Goat's Curse for the submission win.

Shore's Slant: Pretty standard fare from Cabana. Mon do got in some offense and Colt got a few comedy spots in. I'm interested to see him and Davey Richards at the 9th Anniversary show.

2. Roderick Strong and Michael Elgin (w/Truth Martini) defeated Alex Silva and Christian Hayme at 2:52. Elgin started and shoved Hayme around. He worked chops and strikes and tagged in Strong. Strong hit a chop and suplex and tagged back out. Hayme got the hot tag to Silva who hit a missile dropkick. Elgin blocked a hurricanranna and hit a buckle bomb, followed by a spinning sitout powerbomb for the win…

3. Sara Del Ray (w/Shane Hagadorn) defeated Taeler Hendrix at 3:10. The bell rang and Del Ray hit three big boots in a row. Del Ray put on a clinic. Even a fan at ringside yelled, "Taeler, do something." Del Ray won after hooking a serious Gory special and then covering for the pinfall victory…The announce team setup a video that hyped The WGTT and the Briscoes vs. the ANX and KOW as the main event next week…

Shore's Slant: Wow, that was brutal. Del Ray is just a cut above the rest. I would pay real money to see a promotion with her, Kong, Mickie James, and Beth Phoenix. Oh and Taeler because she is my one lady wrestler crush.

4. Christopher Daniels defeated Eddie Edwards for the ROH TV Title at 19:17. The crowd was split pretty even and dueling, "Eddie Edwards/Fallen Angle" chants broke out. Edwards started by working the arm through several chains.

They ran the ropes and Eddie went for a leap frog. Daniels caught him in a fireman's carry and hit an attitude adjustment. Edwards rolled to the floor and Daniels rolled him in for a two count. Edwards escaped a neck hold and hit a sick chop, but Daniels hooked a crossface and Eddie had to fight to make the ropes.

Daniels hit a stop from the second rope for two and tried for the stomp again, but Eddie got the feet up. Eddie hit a superplex and both men recovered. Eddie tossed Daniels to the floor and hit a moonsault off the apron. He hit his ankle on the railing at the same time and sold the injury.

Back in the ring, Edwards hit a kick to the head and then a flying head scissor with Daniels on the rope for a great near fall. Daniels stormed back and tossed Edwards to the floor. Daniels hit his own plancha and the announcer gave a three minute warning.

Daniels hit blue thunder for two as the crowd started the chants again. Eddie came back and hit a double stomp on Daniels who was laid acros the bottom rope. Both men recovered on the floor and entered the ring with one minute left as a clock countdown appeared on the screen.

Edwards hit a double stomp on Daniels. Daniels kicked out at two, but Edwards hooked the ankle lock at 30 seconds. He dragged Daniels back in to the center of the ring, but Daniels reversed into a Koji Clutch. The time expired and the result was a draw.

Daniels demanded the mic. He said he wanted five more minutes because he could beat Daniels. The clock appeared again with five minutes on it and the bell rang. Daniels went right at him and they spilled to the floor. They battled until Todd Sinclair got to 19 and then both rolled in.

Edwards worked his offense. He hit a super kick and a back suplex for two. Edwards set him on the top rope and hit a Frankensteiner with one minute. Daniels completely no sold it and reversed the next lift into angel's wings for the win. Daniels did the borderline crying celebration as the crowd chanted, "That was awesome…"

Shore's Slant: Wow, great match. That was as good or better than the World Heavyweight Title match last night on the Rumble, and probably the best match you will see all week. If you didn’t see it, find a way to do so for sure. And FINALLY, Daniels is shown winning the title he's had for months now.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2011, 02:32 am
WWE Superstars Results: 2-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_47434.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- D.H. SMITH & YOSHI TATSU vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO

This is a re-match from last week's Superstars, which was won by Ryder and Primo. Stanford noted he saw Smith and Yoshi backstage before the show talking strategy in Japanese. Apparently that makes them a more formidable tag team. The announcers discussed the poor showings by these four men in the Rumble (Yoshi and Ryder quick exits and Smith and Primo replaced) and Mathews said they are all trying to break from the "also-ran" label. Before a mid-match commercial, Primo knocked Yoshi to the floor and Ryder landed a cheap shot. Smith checked on Yoshi, who was selling a leg injury, and they cut to break.

Back from break, the heels enjoyed extended offensive control isolating Yoshi. Mathews said he likes what he sees from Ryder and Primo as a potential tag team to be reckoned with. D.H. Smith eventually tagged in and showed off his delayed vertical suplex as Stanford seemed confused on why Smith held Ryder in the air for that long. The action broke down, then Yoshi blind-tagged into the match and delivered high-flying offense on Ryder. On his second try, Yoshi popped Ryder in the head with a roundhouse kick and that was good for the win.

WINNERS: Smith & Yoshi at 11:37. Basic Superstars tag match continuing the back-and-forth mini-tussle between the two teams. (*1/4)

2 -- MELINA vs. TAMINA

The background here is Melina looking for a rebound win after her Divas Title match loss on last week's Raw and this is Tamina's first televised match in 2011. Tamina, wearing an outfit from the Superfly Snuka collection and not accompanied by Santino, displayed an aggressive streak early in the match. Melina sold a nose injury and went to the corner to recover, which drew the referee's attention. It also cut off Tamina's momentum as Melina went on the attack after feigning the injury. Tamina made a comeback at 4:00, but Melina cut her off with a blast to the face. Melina then screamed and scored with her step-over sweeping leg drop for the win.

WINNER: Melina at 4:58. Good, aggressive, five-minute TV match ultimately getting over Melina's "mean streak" as a heel Diva. (*1/4)

3 -- TRENT BARRETA & JTG vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS

The "former best friends," Hawkins and Barreta, locked up to start the match. Stalemate and they locked up again. Barreta got the better of the exchange and tagged in JTG. For what it's worth, Barreta and JTG were color-coordinated with DX-inspired green design and lettering on their pants. Back and forth tag action as the teams continued to feel each other while the announcers played up all four men's quest to get on this year's WrestleMania card. This led to Korpela questioning Striker's WrestleMania credentials and Striker noted his appearance at WrestleMania 23. No mention of the letters "ECW" for the ECW Originals vs. New Breed match, of which Striker was on the losing end with Elijah Burke (The Pope in TNA), Marcus Cor Von (Monty Brown in TNA), and Kevin Thorn. The faces took control of the match going to break.

Back from break, Tyler Reks had taken control of the match for the heels and he was working over JTG. Barreta was shown looking for a tag as the heels continued to isolate JTG. Meanwhile, Striker plugged Friday's Smackdown episode where they'll find out some of the Elimination Chamber participants on the Smackdown side. Reks applied neck vice and the camera zoomed in on JTG's face as he sold agony mixed with losing consciousness. JTG tried to escape, but Reks cut him off and brought Hawkins back into the match.

JTG eventually broke free and tagged in Trent to bring the match back where it started with Trent vs. Hawkins. Trent nailed a springboard dropkick on Reks, who tried to enter the match, then Hawkins dropped Trent with a flip-over facebuster for a two count. Hawkins targeted JTG, who also tried to enter the ring. Trent then crotched Curt and JTG took out Reks on the outside. The action settled down and Hawkins nailed a heat-seeking elbow from the top rope on Trent. It was good for a pin to give the heels a victory.

Post-match, Hawkins and Reks celebrated the victory a bit. Suddenly, Reks decked an unsuspecting Hawkins with a right hand before pulling him back into the ring to deliver his Burning Hammer finisher. Reks is the only one standing tall this week. Korpela signed off as Reks made his way out of the ring and surveyed the damage.

WINNERS: Reks & Hawkins at 13:13. Decent, formula tag match followed by a character-enhancing post-match angle for Reks. For the first time possibly ever, Reks showed a little bit of an "it" factor with the post-match attack and facial expressions trying to get over this unexplained character straight out of the mid-1990s WWF playbook. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2011, 02:34 am
WWE Superstars Results: 2-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_47434.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- D.H. SMITH & YOSHI TATSU vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO

This is a re-match from last week's Superstars, which was won by Ryder and Primo. Stanford noted he saw Smith and Yoshi backstage before the show talking strategy in Japanese. Apparently that makes them a more formidable tag team. The announcers discussed the poor showings by these four men in the Rumble (Yoshi and Ryder quick exits and Smith and Primo replaced) and Mathews said they are all trying to break from the "also-ran" label. Before a mid-match commercial, Primo knocked Yoshi to the floor and Ryder landed a cheap shot. Smith checked on Yoshi, who was selling a leg injury, and they cut to break.

Back from break, the heels enjoyed extended offensive control isolating Yoshi. Mathews said he likes what he sees from Ryder and Primo as a potential tag team to be reckoned with. D.H. Smith eventually tagged in and showed off his delayed vertical suplex as Stanford seemed confused on why Smith held Ryder in the air for that long. The action broke down, then Yoshi blind-tagged into the match and delivered high-flying offense on Ryder. On his second try, Yoshi popped Ryder in the head with a roundhouse kick and that was good for the win.

WINNERS: Smith & Yoshi at 11:37. Basic Superstars tag match continuing the back-and-forth mini-tussle between the two teams. (*1/4)

2 -- MELINA vs. TAMINA

The background here is Melina looking for a rebound win after her Divas Title match loss on last week's Raw and this is Tamina's first televised match in 2011. Tamina, wearing an outfit from the Superfly Snuka collection and not accompanied by Santino, displayed an aggressive streak early in the match. Melina sold a nose injury and went to the corner to recover, which drew the referee's attention. It also cut off Tamina's momentum as Melina went on the attack after feigning the injury. Tamina made a comeback at 4:00, but Melina cut her off with a blast to the face. Melina then screamed and scored with her step-over sweeping leg drop for the win.

WINNER: Melina at 4:58. Good, aggressive, five-minute TV match ultimately getting over Melina's "mean streak" as a heel Diva. (*1/4)

3 -- TRENT BARRETA & JTG vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS

The "former best friends," Hawkins and Barreta, locked up to start the match. Stalemate and they locked up again. Barreta got the better of the exchange and tagged in JTG. For what it's worth, Barreta and JTG were color-coordinated with DX-inspired green design and lettering on their pants. Back and forth tag action as the teams continued to feel each other while the announcers played up all four men's quest to get on this year's WrestleMania card. This led to Korpela questioning Striker's WrestleMania credentials and Striker noted his appearance at WrestleMania 23. No mention of the letters "ECW" for the ECW Originals vs. New Breed match, of which Striker was on the losing end with Elijah Burke (The Pope in TNA), Marcus Cor Von (Monty Brown in TNA), and Kevin Thorn. The faces took control of the match going to break.

Back from break, Tyler Reks had taken control of the match for the heels and he was working over JTG. Barreta was shown looking for a tag as the heels continued to isolate JTG. Meanwhile, Striker plugged Friday's Smackdown episode where they'll find out some of the Elimination Chamber participants on the Smackdown side. Reks applied neck vice and the camera zoomed in on JTG's face as he sold agony mixed with losing consciousness. JTG tried to escape, but Reks cut him off and brought Hawkins back into the match.

JTG eventually broke free and tagged in Trent to bring the match back where it started with Trent vs. Hawkins. Trent nailed a springboard dropkick on Reks, who tried to enter the match, then Hawkins dropped Trent with a flip-over facebuster for a two count. Hawkins targeted JTG, who also tried to enter the ring. Trent then crotched Curt and JTG took out Reks on the outside. The action settled down and Hawkins nailed a heat-seeking elbow from the top rope on Trent. It was good for a pin to give the heels a victory.

Post-match, Hawkins and Reks celebrated the victory a bit. Suddenly, Reks decked an unsuspecting Hawkins with a right hand before pulling him back into the ring to deliver his Burning Hammer finisher. Reks is the only one standing tall this week. Korpela signed off as Reks made his way out of the ring and surveyed the damage.

WINNERS: Reks & Hawkins at 13:13. Decent, formula tag match followed by a character-enhancing post-match angle for Reks. For the first time possibly ever, Reks showed a little bit of an "it" factor with the post-match attack and facial expressions trying to get over this unexplained character straight out of the mid-1990s WWF playbook. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2011, 02:35 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_47431.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 –INK, INC. vs. GUNNER & MURPHY

Gunner and Murphy gain the edge early as Taz continues to talk up how big they are. I just wish I knew which one was Gunner and which one was Murphy. Jesse Neal starts off down in the corner and Murphy is beating him up. I guess Murphy is the taller one with no tattoos. As Taz is talking him up, he hits a solid-looking big boot that drops Jesse Neal to the mat.

TNA is really hitting on the ‘Main Event Mafia is NOT they’
point tonight because Taz tells everyone he thought it was the MEM as well. Meanwhile, Moore gets a hot tag from Neal and manages to hit a moonsault off of the top turnbuckle for a nearfall. However, Gunner grabs him from behind and holds his arms behind his back. Murphy lines up for another big boot but Moore moves and Gunner takes the boot instead. This leads to the double team Mooregasm move on Murphy for the three count. Tenay says that perhaps Immortal is distracted after the opening revelation that ‘they’ isn’t the Main Event Mafia.

WINNER: Ink Inc. in 4:00.

2 – JAY LETHAL vs. JEREMY BUCK vsS. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS - X
DIVISION #1 CONTENDER’S TOURNAMENT MATCH

Judging by the early action, this is going to be another match with 20 minute of action jammed into five minutes of actual ring time. Jeremy Buck hit a big moonsault to the outside of the ring before Lethal followed it up with a suicide dive. Lethal re-entered the ring with a spinning heel kick and got a two count for his efforts.

Meanwhile, Max Buck talks up the X Division as the most exciting wrestling that he and his brother have seen in their travels all over the world. In the ring, Williams has taken control of things and has Jeremy prone atop one of the turnbuckles while Lethal is down. This prompts Max to make the surprisingly funny comment that his brother’s shoe is untied and he needs to go down to ringside to tell him. Safety first, after all! Max was surprisingly good on commentary for the two minutes he had a headset on.

Before Max can get down to ringside, Lethal hits a powerbomb on Williams, who is perched on the top turnbuckle and ready to suplex Jeremy Buck. This leads to a giant superplex/bomb that allows Lethal to get back in control. While Williams and Lethal face off, Max helps Jeremy up at ringside, where they smartly bide their time. Tenay takes this opportunity to tell the audience that next week’s three way match will feature Robbie E, Brian Kendrick, and the return of Suicide.

They don’t have to wait long. After Lethal tries his handspring elbow move off the ropes, Williams catches him and runs him into the corner, allowing Douglas to hit the Rolling Chaos Theory Suplex. However, Max is distracting the referee and this allows Jeremy to hit a low kick on Williams and steal the three count.

WINNER: JEREMY BUCK in 4:00 to move on to the #1 contender’s
match at Against All Odds.

3 – MICKIE JAMES vs. SARITA --- TAPED FIST MATCH

We find out early in the match that Mickie’s Knockouts Title match at Against All Odds will be a Last Knockout Standing match. Anyways, it looks like this is just a regular wrestling match, except you apparently have to win by knockout. Get it?

Mickie is in control for the first few minutes but Sarita manages to recover by throwing Micke into the ring post. She then focuses on Mickie James’s wrist by slamming it into the ring steps. Taz points out that it is hard to knock someone out with a broken hand, a nice point.

Sarita continues beating on Mickie and starts to play to the crowd before locking in a wristlock on the same wrist she’s been targeting all match. However, Mickie fights out with a head scissors before Sarita stops her and hits a backdrop suplex on Mickie to kill her momentum.

Tenay rightly points out that Sarita has been in control for most of the match. Well, it looks like Mickie is going to win this one. True to form with the giveaway on commentary, Mickie slithers behind Sarita and knocks her unconscious with her good hand.

WINNER: MICKIE JAMES IN 6:00

After the match, Madison Rayne comes through the crowd and attacks Mickie from behind while she is selling the effects of Sarita’s concentrated attacks on her wrist. Madison uses the loaded glove, so Mickie is knocked unconscious, leaving both ladies from the ‘taped fists’ match out on the mat.

4 – JEFF HARDY vs. MR. ANDERSON (TNA CHAMPION) - TNA TITLE MATCH

Back from break, the match is in progress. Anderson drops two quick elbows and earns a quick nearfall. After Hardy bails out of the ring and Anderson follows him, Jeff hits him coming back into the ring and then hits a strong-looking neckbreaker from the second rope to take control of the match.

Taz and Tenay talked up the one-on-one agreement between the two men to finally get an answer on who is the better man. Hardy hit a hard clothesline at 2:00 for another nearfall as the crowd starts dueling “Let’s go Hardy” and “Let’s Go A-hole” chants, the latter of which is the louder of the two. While the fans are chanting, Hardy locks in a lengthy chinlock.

Anderson eventually manages to get back to his feet and hit a sunset flip powerbomb on Hardy. However, his momentum was stalled by Hardy hitting a big clothesline. The anti-Christ celebrated by giving the crowd the double bird. Hardy decided to start beating up on one of Anderson’s legs, hitting numerous leg drops and slamming his knee into the ring post. Taz continued his solid color commentary by saying that a bad wheel could negatively affect the impact of Anderson’s Mic Check finishing move. At 5:00, Hardy rolled Anderson back into the ring for another long chinlock. His comeback attempt failed for the second time in this match as Hardy hit a Whisper in the Wind to lay both men out on the mat. This led to a long count by the referee before the two hit dueling big fists with the crowd appropriately responding loudly with big ‘yay’ and ‘boo’ cheers for each blow landed. The Impact Zone is hot.

Anderson finally managed to regain full momentum with two clotheslines followed by a back body drop and a swinging neckbreaker for a two count. Anderson tried to set up the Mic Check but Hardy blocked it. Anderson then hit a very similar series of kicks to the combination that Amazing Red uses, where the first kick whiffs but the second follows through with a vengeance. Another nearfall but then Hardy managed to fight back.

At 9:00, the two men countered a few moves in a row, culminating in a blocked Twist of Hate that led to Hardy bumping the referee to the outside. Right afterward, with the ref down, Hardy hit the Diamond Cutter, though the announcers called it the Twist of Hate.

But with the ref down, all of Immortal and Fortune hit the ring. Matt Hardy nailed a Side Effect and Fortune had Jeff hold up Anderson for Styles to take out. However, A.J. stopped his punch and held up the Fortune hand signal instead. Suddenly the other three members of the group cleared the ring while A.J. stared down Hardy, who sold shock. That led to Roode hitting a big clothesline on Jeff that allowed A.J. to hit the Styles Clash on Hardy before dragging Anderson on top for the three count victory.

WINNER: MR. ANDERSON in 12:00

-Post-match, Matt Hardy and the rest of Immortal were shown ringside throwing a fit as Fortune stood tall in the ring. Styles picked up the purple belt and handed it to Anderson as Tenay hyped A.J. Styles explaining Fortune turning on Immortal.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 06 2011, 02:37 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_47456.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- VLADIMIR KOZLOV & SANTINO MARELLA vs. HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL

Tamina accompanied the tag champs to the ring. As the champs came to the ring, they showed Randy Orton punting Husky Harris in the skull from Raw after the tag match. Kozlov kept Gabriel on the mat early on, but Gabriel rolled away and tagged Slater. Santino tagged in as well and took Slater down with a back-heel trip. Slater fired back with rights to the kidney area. Booker got the first Striker-ism of his new broadcast career, saying he’d been hearing about The Chaperone all over the social media networks and that it’s hot. Kozlov back in with a big kick to Slater’s chest. Big powerslam followed it up for two, with the count interrupted by Gabriel. After Kozlov kicked Gabriel out of the ring, Slater hit a reverse DDT then tagged Gabriel. That was a quick recovery. 450 splash connected for the pinfall win.

WINNERS: Gabriel and Slater, at 3:07. Sounds like Corre already has a slightly re-done theme song, and it’s not for the better. Good win for the Corre members.

2- KOFI KINGSTON vs. DREW MCINTYRE – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Booker gave his strategy for the Chamber match, having been in the first Chamber match. McIntyre and Kingston went back and forth, with McIntyre getting the first real advantage. McIntyre with a bodyslam then a shoulder tackle. Kingston turned things around and began to work the arm. Kingston hit his flip kick in the corner, then clotheslined McIntyre over the top rope and to ringside. Kingston charged at McIntyre, who lifted Kingston up and brought him down chest-first onto the steel ring steps. Can Kofi recover?

McIntyre went for a cover just after break. It only got two. McIntyre stretched out the mid-section of the Intercontinental Champion. Tilt-a-whirl gut-buster by Mac for two. Hard clotheslines to the throat in the corner by McIntyre. Standing dropkick by the Scot for a two-count. Kingston countered McIntyre for a DDT, but he couldn’t capitalize. He finally reached McIntyre for a pin, and Booker declared, “he got him.” Booker is learning quickly: McIntyre kicked out. Kingston hammered away at McIntyre in the corner and had to be restrained by the ref, which caused Michael Cole to lose it, saying he should’ve been disqualified. Boom Drop from Kofi. Trouble in Paradise swatted away and McIntyre grabbed the ropes. As Kingston tried to free McIntyre, Ricardo Rodriguez came on the Titan-Tron and introduced Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio smiled and winked, allowing McIntyre to take out Kofi’s knee and hit the Future Shock DDT to advance to the Chamber match.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 12:58. Is McIntyre in WWE’s good graces again? Hopefully Kingston gets a secondary match on the Chamber PPV. McIntyre got a lot of offense in this one.

3 – REY MYSTERIO vs. JACK SWAGGER – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

Cole announced that Cody Rhodes will be undergoing facial reconstruction surgery next week due to injuries suffered at the hands of Rey Mysterio. Mysterio kicked Swagger, getting Swagger angry. He charged at Mysterio and Mysterio low-bridged him out of the ring. They went to break under a minute in. Is that really necessary?

Both men circled the ring after an apparent stalemate upon return from break. At least that’s a unique way to bring the show back. Bulldog by Rey for two. The announcers said Ziggler was automatically qualified for the Chamber match. Mysterio set Swagger up for the 619, but Swagger fled to ringside. Mysterio kicked him through the ropes and went for a springboard moonsault. Swagger tripped him up and twisted his leg in the ropes. Back in the ring, more work on the knee from Swagger. He even wrapped Mysterio’s knee around the ring post. At ringside, Mysterio grabbed at his knee. At the 7:00 mark, Swagger slammed Mysterio’s head into the announce table. He tossed Mysterio back in the ring and hit the Vader Bomb. The camera angle they had made the move look even more impressive. The leg of Rey continued to be the focal point of Swagger’s onslaught. Big beal out of the corner by Swagger, but he missed a second Vader Bomb at the 9:00 mark. Spinning DDT from Mysterio got him two. Swagger was set up for the 619, but Swagger caught Rey. He grabbed the ankle and applied the ankle-lock. Rey countered, sending Swagger head-first into the buckle. Swagger was dazed, and Mysterio kicked him in the shoulder, then rolled him up from behind for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 10:20. A little better than the first Chamber qualifying match. Both had similar stories, with the heel working a specific body part for the middle portion of the match.

4 – CHAVO GUERRERO vs. KANE – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

I get that Vickie would give Chavo the opportunity to be in the Chamber, but you’d think she’d give him an easier road to the PPV match. A few seconds in, Chavo already lasted longer than his ECW Title match against Kane at Wrestlemania a few years ago. Chavo brought Kane’s arm down across the top rope, then went for a Frog Splash. It looked like he hit it, but Kane had him by the throat. On his feet, Kane chokeslammed Chavo for the win.

WINNER: Kane, at 1:01. Kane gets to re-assert his dominance after a pedestrian Rumble performance (for him).

5 – THE BIG SHOW vs. WADE BARRETT – ELIMINATION CHAMBER QUALIFYING MATCH

The rest of Corre accompanied Barrett to the ring. Hard chop to the chest by Big Show on Barrett in the corner, then a punch to the gut. Another chop followed that. Barrett countered a third chop and worked the mid-section of Show. Barrett ducked a clothesline and dropkicked Show’s leg. Barrett ran into an elbow and Show whipped Barrett into the ref in the corner. Corre tried to interfere, and Ezekiel Jackson was the one who was successful, clotheslining Show to the mat. Barrett covered but only got two. Barrett then connected with a DDT while Show was on his knees, and picked up the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 1:59.

Show attacked the Corre after the match, dumping Barrett to ringside. He fought off the others, but Jackson picked him up, held him for a few seconds, and bodyslammed him. Impressive. Jackson then got the mic and said Show’s time has come to an end.

6 – DOLPH ZIGGLER & LAYCOOL vs. KELLY KELLY & EDGE – HANDICAP MIXED TAG MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Mathews obnoxiously claimed it was obvious there would be a new champion tonight, and they should just switch the titles before the match. Tony Chimel handled formal ring introductions. Before the match, Vickie declared that if Edge uses the Spear, he’ll be stripped of the title immediately. As soon as the bell rang, Edge threw Ziggler around the ring. He set up for the Spear, but realized he couldn’t do it. Baseball slide to Ziggler outside the ring, then he tossed the challenger back in the ring. A tag was made to Michelle McCool. Edge hesitated before getting out of the ring. Kelly came into the ring as Mathews announced that she was now defending the World Title. Decent hook as they went to break about two minutes in.

The show returned with McCool working over Kelly in the corner. Kelly came back by using her athleticism to choke McCool in the ropes. Kelly pounded McCool’s head off the ringside mats, but Layla tripped her up on the apron. Kelly had McCool in position for a hurricanrana, but McCool twisted her around and slammed her head into the barricade. Layla tagged in and clotheslined Kelly for a two-count. Belly-to-belly throw by McCool. Kelly countered a suplex and slapped McCool. McCool was back in control, eight minutes in. Head-scissors applied by Layla. Kelly appeared to be losing consciousness, but the fans (and Edge) tried to keep her into it. Face-buster by Kelly. Everything started breaking loose with the ref not seeing Edge tag in. McCool accidentally kicked Layla in the face, allowing Kelly time to recover. She crouched in the corner and a few fans picked up on what was going on…she ran at and speared Layla for the win.

WINNERS: Edge and Kelly, at 10:13. Kelly’s new aggressive personality is the most interesting she’s been in a long time. Nice finish, too.

Vickie Guerrero did the slow clap as she entered the ring, then fired Kelly. Kelly began to cry as Vickie yelled at her. She said Kelly always had it in for her, and that this is Vickie’s show. Kelly backed up the ramp in tears. Edge was standing behind Vickie, appearing ready to spear her. Instead, Vickie turned around and addressed her former husband. She said next week, Edge will be the former World Champion. She made Edge vs. Ziggler for the title next week, with her as special referee. She cackled as she made the announcement, then Ziggler came from behind and gave Edge the Zig Zag. They went off the air with the heels standing tall.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 08 2011, 03:14 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_47522.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MASON RYAN vs. R-TRUTH

Cole continued his rant as Truth and Ryan started the match. Truth sold a knee injury and Ryan targeted the left knee. Ryan executed a suplex dropping Truth knee-first across the bottom rope repeatedly. Cole and Lawler began arguing with each other as Ryan continued to work over Truth, who suddenly flipped onto the top rope, only to be yanked down to the mat. Ryan then applied a modified Texas Cloverleaf and Truth was forced to submit.

After the match, Ryan maintained the hold and the ref shouted some additional instructions to the ring announcer to apparently reverse the decision. Ryan then retrieved a chair, but the ref tried to reprimand him. Ryan shoved him away, then re-entered the ring and re-applied his submission hold while standing to keep bending Truth's knee. Ryan eventually dropped the hold and left the ring before the official announcement was made reversing the decision for Truth.

WINNER: Truth via reverse decision at 2:27. The knee work and post-match angle looked like a storyline write-off for Truth to get him out of the Elimination Chamber match. The match itself was an afterthought and Ryan still needs some sharpening in the ring. He was a little over-the-top with his facials and looks like the stereotypical big, lumbering big man at times. (3/4*)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & GAIL KIM & TAMINA vs. MELINA & NIKKI BELLA & BRIE BELLA

The match started with Gail Kim isolated by the heels. Natalya talked about not being pinned at the Royal Rumble PPV, so she's getting her re-match for the Divas Title next week on Raw. They built to a hot tag to Eve, who executed a trademark standing moonsault. The action then broke down and Gail Kim started brawling with the Bellas. Back in the ring, Eve dropped Melina with a neckbreaker and scored the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Team Eve at 2:16. Standard Divas action continuing the issue between the Bellas and Gail, while also giving Eve the credibility-boosting visual of scoring a pin before the title match next week. (*)

3 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Back from break, Mike was in the ring as Morrison was shooting him an icy stare measuring his opponent. The bell sounded and Mike took Morrison down to the mat with stomps and kicks. Mike then whipped Morrison hard across the ring into an opposite corner. Mike proceeded to pull Morrison into the corner ringpost. He tried to dropkick Morrison's left arm inside the ring steps, but Morrison moved just in time. Back in the ring, Morrison fired off inspired right hands and a clothesline that drew the audience into the action. Morrison delivered a leg whip before nailing a springboard flying chuck. Morrison went for Starship Pain and connected for the pin.

WINNER: Morrison at 2:30. Nice comeback victory for Morrison getting over his intensity and finishing offense. WWE obviously doesn't trust the New Nexus members in long matches, though. (*)

4 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN & JERRY LAWLER vs. WWE champion THE MIZ & TED DIBIASE

Bryan and DiBiase started things off against each other. Riley slipped trying to cut a promo on the U.S. champion, calling him Bryan Daniels. Cole corrected him as Lawler tagged in for Bryan. Miz and DiBiase then used a two-on-one advantage to knock Lawler to the floor. Cole celebrated Lawler being in trouble as they cut to break.

Back from break, Bryan ran over Miz with a clothesline. Miz then pulled the referee away from the corner, allowing DiBiase to crotch Bryan as he was standing on the top rope. Riley had jokes on Bryan and Lawler as they cut to a shot of Maryse taking pictures of herself. Cole ranted on Lawler, saying it's all about ego for him. Lawler eventually took a hot tag and back-dropped DiBiase. Lawler scored with a DDT on DiBiase, then the action broke down. Bryan took out Miz ringside with a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Lawler dropped the strap and measured DiBiase for a trademark fist drop as Cole said it's all about showboating for Lawler. Lawler with the cover for the win. In the ring, Lawler and Bryan stood tall while Riley vowed not to let Miz lose the WWE Title at the Chamber PPV. They cut to a shot of Miz selling that he was upset ringside.

WINNERS: Lawler & Bryan at 9:05. Fine tag match. It was presented like a mid-card match, though, rather than a chance to elevate some stars, which is the problem when DiBiase has been treated like a second-rate wrestler for months and Bryan has been run down by the commentators for months. (*1/2)

5 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. WWE tag champion SANTINO

Del Rio re-entered the ring and the match officially started. Santino threw Del Rio over the top rope again, then tried to follow up on the outside, but Del Rio smashed Santino into the ringpost. In the ring, Del Rio landed a back drop for a nearfall. Del Rio then went to work on Santino's left shoulder to set up for the cross arm-breaker. Del Rio went for a step-up enziguiri, but Santino ducked. Santino then ducked Del Rio's clothesline and landed a hip toss. Santino started to feel The Cobra, but Del Rio ducked and dropped Santino with a fallaway armbreaker. Del Rio then measured Santino for a kick to the back and rolling cross arm-breaker. Santino immediately tapped, giving Del Rio the win.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 2:58. Del Rio didn't look like a WrestleMania headliner going even-steven with Santino. At least he was booked to win clean after turning the crowd's pro-Santino emotions into heel heat after he dashed Santino's hopes, but too much offense for Santino when WWE is trying to build up a future PPV headliner people are supposed to pay money to see. (*)

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK

The bell sounded and Cena kept looking around to make sure he was alone with Punk to start the match. Punk was the aggressor from the get-go, as they cut out Cena's opening offense and went right to Punk in control with the match starting just before the top of the hour. Punk landed a boot to the gut to cut off Cena's first comeback attempt. Punk went back on the offensive before throwing Cena to the outside. Punk measured Cena and landed a running clothesline on the floor. Punk smiled, then rolled Cena back into the ring. Punk landed a trademark corner knee strike followed by a bulldog out of the corner. Punk smiled again, then did the Cena hand wave over Cena. Punk teased the G2S, but Cena blocked and made his big comeback with right hand blows to the kidneys. Cena nearly got himself DQ'ed with too many punches in the corner, then he paused as the referee reprimanded him. Cena shrugged his shoulders, then punched Punk in the groin to draw a DQ.

WINNER: Punk via DQ at 4:52.

Post-match: Cena readied himself for Nexus to storm the ring. Otunga and Mike tried to corner Cena, but Lawler slipped Cena a chair. Cena cracked a chair over Otunga and Mike's back to clear Nexus to the outside. Mason Ryan checked on Punk, who sold the effects of the groin shot. Cena stood tall in the ring with the chair while Punk coughed up a lung. Cena then clutched the chair like a baseball bat and glared down at Nexus as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 16 2011, 02:19 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_47735.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only, thank God since there was a whole lot of yapping going on :p

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. JOHN CENA -- There must be a winner
Cole said Nexus has been banned from ringside and all three of the one-on-one matches tonight will have the other Chamber members banned from ringside. If anyone gets involved in another wrestler's match, he will be kicked out of the Chamber. Punk quickly knocked Cena to the floor, then took him down with a running clothesline. They cut to break 58 seconds into the match.

Back from break at 3:45, Punk was dominating Cena in the match. Mathews recapped that if anyone from Nexus or anyone else in the Chamber interferes, Punk or the interfering individual will be kicked out of the Chamber, respectively. Cole heeled on Cena for insulting him and said he thought Cena sounded desperate picking on him. Punk locked in a body scissors as Cole recapped Cena "needing WrestleMania" and needing to headline WrestleMania. Cena countered the body scissors into an attempted STF, but Punk easily thwarted the counter and went back to working on Cena's back. Cena then made a trademark comeback and dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk slipped out and leg-whipped Cena in the face for a nearfall. The two men paused for a bit, then Cena reapplied a body scissors looking to wear down Cena, who suddenly rolled onto his stomach and showed off his power lifting with an attempted electric chair. Punk blocked, but Cena came back with a gut wrench suplex for a two count. Cena went up top, but Punk hopped to his feet and kicked Cena off the top rope. Punk then went into his signature offense, hit a swinging neckbreaker, but only scored a two count

At 9:00, Punk went for the G2S, but Cena rolled through into a small package for a two count. Punk instantly cut off Cena with kick strikes before nailing a blow to the head for a Punk nearfall. Punk then went up top for a cross body-block, but Cena rolled through and power-lifted into AA position. Punk escaped, though, by grabbing the top rope and found himself on the floor. Someone with a Nexus armband then handed Punk a chair from under the ring. What if the match ended before this point? There's always that gaping logic hole. Punk slid the chair into the ring, the ref was distracted, then the Nexus Hand gave Punk a wrench to blast Cena in the face. Punk slid back into the ring and hit the G2S on Cena for the pin and the win. Cole said Punk is 3-0 against Cena, while Mathews said Punk proved he can't beat Cena without Nexus's help.
WINNER: Punk at 10:36. Good TV match involving the audience and creating some drama before the heel-cheating-to-win finish setting up the audience to want to see Punk to get his in the Elimination Chamber on Sunday. Punk escaping Cena's signature offense and comebacks was effective to heighten the drama and help stretch out the match. (**1/4)

2 -- Divas champion EVE vs. NATALYA -- Divas Title match -- lumberjill match
Natalya was already in the ring for the Divas Title match. Surrounding the ring as lumberjills were the Bellas, Maryse, Alicia Fox, Gail Kim, Melina, and Tamina. Eve then came out to defend the title. Early on, Natalya executed a unique surfboard stretch, then Eve stood up in the hold and went into a forward roll for a nearfall. Natalya then found herself on the outside and all heck broke loose ringside. Back in the ring, there were a few awkward exchanges before Eve kinda trapped Natalya's shoulders to the mat for a pin. Afterward, Natalya sold frustration with not being able to regain her title as Eve shrugged her shoulders that she won.
WINNER: Eve at 3:38 to retain the Divas Title. Off match. They didn't seem to be on the same page throughout and the ringside distraction via the pointless stipulation didn't help. For one week of actual build for a Divas Title match, you'd like to see them at least get five minutes. (3/4*)

3 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) vs. U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN -- Champion vs. Champion non-title match
Miz ran over Bryan with a shoulder tackle, then talked trash to Bryan, who showed grit that he would make a comeback. Mathews played up Bryan as an underdog, like Arcade Fire at the Grammys, before Bryan landed a flying dropkick on Miz. Miz then cut off Bryan and tried to wear him down with a neck vice. Bryan then countered with almost a rear naked choke and Miz showed fear that he might tap before reaching the bottom rope for a break. Miz came back with an aggressive back elbow smash before settling into a reverse chinlock. The crowd came to life with a "Daniel Bryan" chant as Cole over-sold Miz's historical WWE champion standing. Miz name-dropped Triple H and Shawn Michaels in the process. Even a Crusher reference.

Bryan built a head of steam ducking clotheslines before hitting a flying dropkick in the corner for a nearfall. Miz started to beg off, then he caught Bryan with a kick to the mid-section. Bryan then ducked a clothesline and dumped Miz over the top rope to the floor. Bryan measured Miz for a flying smash, but Miz ran away. Bryan then regrouped and ran off the ring apron with a flying knee smash, crushing the ring barricade.

Back in the ring, Bryan measured Miz for a top-rope missile dropkick and connected. Bryan made a cover, but Miz kicked out in time as Riley freaked out on commentary. Miz then responded with a jawbreaker, but Bryan teased the LeBell Lock, and Miz grabbed the bottom rope for a break. Miz and Bryan found themselves on the ring apron and Miz awkwardly dropped Bryan on the back of his head across the ring apron with a neckbreaker. That looked nasty. Bryan sold on the floor and Miz did his intense look as they cut to break at 6:30.

Back from break at 9:20, Miz was stalking Bryan in the corner. Miz hoisted Bryan up top for a high-impact move, but Bryan blocked and executed a big sunset flip powerbomb for a close nearfall that made Riley sweat again. The crowd popped, then Bryan fired off a rapid-fire series of kick strikes to Miz's chest. Bryan tried a final kick strike, but Miz ducked and Miz scored a nearfall on a roll-up attempt. Miz then wanted the Reality Check, but Bryan countered into an overhead suplex.

Miz came up wobbly and Bryan absolutely tattooed him with a kick strike for another nearfall. A collective "oooh" from the crowd before they replayed Bryan's kick to the head. Cole said he loves Bryan taking it to Miz tonight get Miz ready for the PVP. Bryan then tried a forward roll, but Bryan blocked and face-planted Bryan. Miz then followed up with the Skullcrushing Finale and scored a three count for the win. Cole and Riley sold that they were suddenly oh so confident in Miz after he escaped with victory. Mathews narrated replay clips before Cole interjected that taking the SCF will be Lawler's fate on Sunday.
WINNER: Miz at 11:55. Excellent second-half to the TV match getting the audience to really buy into the nearfalls and tell a good underdog story for Bryan while the heels (Cole and Riley) looked foolish selling for Bryan, who they knocked in the first-half of the match. Bryan delivering trademark kick-*** offense was refreshing after WWE opted not to utilize what he brings to the table the past several weeks. (**3/4)

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 16 2011, 02:20 pm
Continued from previous post (damn 10,000 space limit!)

4 -- JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH vs. NEW NEXUS (DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY w/Mason Ryan)
Truth started things off as the camera focused on Morrison selling the effects of the spraycan with a big red mark around his eye. Truth found himself on the floor early on and Ryan waited for the ref to distract himself before attacking Truth ringside. Back in the ring, Mike with a cover for a nearfall. The announcers argued about the Punk vs. Cena finish in the opening match and Mathews speculated that Mike handed Punk the wrench from under the ring. Morrison then tagged in and, with limited vision, blasted Mike over and over.

The announcers focused on Morrison selling aggression, then Morrison blasted Ryan off the ring apron with a strike. Morrison then hip-tossed Truth over the top rope onto Ryan. Morrison sent a message to Punk, then creamed Mike with a running knee strike to the face for the pin. Morrison got up selling intensity, then Ryan tried to jump him from behind. Ryan awkwardly stumbled backward and Morrison showed no fear. Morrison and Truth then cleared Ryan from the ring. they went to back-and-forth shots of Nexus recovering ringside while Morrison sold intensity staring back at them.
WINNERS: Morrison & Truth at 4:18. Good focus on Morrison with him showing that intensity and fire that is finally starting to come together. Nexus continues to look like a merry band of helpless henchmen, but the money's on Morrison becoming a top-flight babyface. Back-to-back segments strongly focusing on future babyface stars Bryan and Morrison was a nice use of TV time. (*)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS
Orton and Sheamus locked up and pulled themselves down in the corner. The ref forced Orton to break his grip on Sheamus before Sheamus came back with a boot to the gut. Orton then Thesz Pressed Sheamus before landing a boot to the head. Sheamus fired back with right hands from a mount position before Orton came back with a knock-down right hand. Orton followed with a leaping knee drop for a nearfall. Good back-and-forth early on. Cole noted Hunter has been in six Chamber matches and won four. The build toward Hunter's return continues.

Sheamus placed Orton inside the top and middle rope before blasting him with forearms to the chest. Sheamus followed with a running knee strike. Cole with a nice piece of commentary noting the referees have been allowing a lot of aggression tonight because the wrestler's emotions are high on the eve of the Chamber PPV and WrestleMania past that. Orton came back on Sheamus with a knock-down clothesline, then a snap powerslam. Orton started to enter that place and he landed a kick to the chest, but walked into the Irish Curse backbreaker from Sheamus for a two count. Sheamus then took Orton up top and executed a superplex that took their effect on both men. Sheamus was slow to follow up and Orton came absolutely out of nowhere with an RKO for the pin and the win.
WINNER: Orton at 5:03. Good, aggressive five-minute match doing exactly what it needed to do: sell the aggression and intensity of the Chamber match. (*1/2)
Over-run of the show (17 minutes) was the newly announced Wrestlemania 27 host 'The Rock' doing what he does best...talking :smirk:
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 16 2011, 02:21 pm
WWE NXT Results: 2-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_47765.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and immunity standings.

1 -- R-TRUTH (w/Johnny Curtis) vs. BRODUS CLAY (w/Ricardo Rodriguez)

Truth quickly sidestepped Clay, sending the Rookie flying to the outside. Truth then dropkicked Clay into Ricardo, drawing a reaction. Suddenly, there was some activity on the stage in the background. It appeared a fan tried to get involved? Back in the ring, Clay executed a suplex and the ref checked on Truth to ensure he was okay. Ricardo was recovered at this point and talking 1,000 MPH to the announcers. The crowd tried rallying behind Truth, who is in a #1 contender match to the WWE Title at the PPV this Sunday and couldn't put away Clay. Truth never made that comeback and Clay splashed Truth to score the pin for the win. Truth sold a shoulder injury as Clay celebrated.

WINNER: Clay at 2:48. An NXT Rookie just squashed technically a #1 contender to the WWE Title based on Truth's entry in the Chamber match. They should have put Truth's Chamber slot on the line here if they really want to make a new star out of Clay rather than lowering the prestige of the WWE Title. It's a good thing the announcers drew zero attention to Truth in the Chamber match on Sunday and no one watches this show.

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. DERRICK BATEMAN -- non-title match

Back from break, Bateman was in the ring still looking a bit slimy from being dumped on during the trivia segment. Bryan and Bateman shook hands before locking up. Ziggler mumbled, "This isn't ROH, you don't need to shake hands." He paused. "Or is it?" Bryan and Bateman felt each other out in the ring while the Pros cracked jokes from the stage. One reference was a joke about the Chargers. Grisham was apparently instructed to explain to the audience who the San Diego Chargers are. Bateman then whipped Bryan through the ropes and the Pro collapsed to the ground. Bateman followed up on the outside selling intensity as the referee told him to get it back in the ring. Cut to break.

Back from break, Bryan was blasting Bateman with trademark kicks and strikes. Bateman shouted, "I learned my lesson." Bryan let up a bit and Bateman mounted some offense before Bryan knocked him down with a back elbow smash. Bryan then went up top and went for a flying splash, but Bateman moved when Bryan took too long. Bateman then blasted Bryan with a clothesline for a nearfall. Bryan tried to come back with a sunset flip, but Bateman trapped Bryan's shoulders for a nearfall. Bateman then showed off a big lift-up powerbomb after countering the LeBell Lock for a nearfall that popped the crowd.

Bateman tried to follow up with a kick strike, but Bryan blocked. He then slowly approached Bateman, who tried to catch him off-guard with the LeBell Lock. Bateman couldn't apply it, though, and Bryan countered his own finisher with the LeBell Lock. The announcers noted if anyone knows the counter to the LeBell Lock, it's Bryan. Bryan locked in his finishing hold, stretching Bateman, who tapped out after a few moments. Bryan gets the win.

Post-match: They cut to a shot of Maryse, Ricardo, and Ziggler on-stage selling some interest in the proceedings. Bryan got up and flexed his shoulder to show he was impressed with Bateman's submission work even if he was able to counter it. Bryan then applauded Bateman and raised his arm for the crowd as the announcers concluded the show with a final plug for NXT voting on WWE's website tomorrow.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 8:50. Nice match. Bateman sold intensity - more so than he has throughout this season - and Bryan found himself in another solid outing winning over a quiet crowd by match end. They're certainly building to a Clay vs. Bateman finale in two weeks.

Immunity Standings:
Clay - 5 points
Bateman - 0 points
Curtis - 0 points
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 19 2011, 04:41 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 2-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Errickson's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_47819.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Reks was on offense first with a kick to the gut, then he threw Masters out of the ring. Masters, back in the ring, threw several punches to Reks's face. Reks then put Masters in the corner and went to work with several kicks to Masters's gut. Huge clothesline by Reks good for a two count. Reks then applied on a headlock. Masters fought out with kicks to Reks's face. Reks with some sick kicks to Masters's chest, followed by a big boot to the face. Reks went for a clothesline, but Masters reversed and threw Reks out of the ring. reversed and Masters throws Reks out of the ring. Huge Samoan drop by Masters, followed by several chops to the chest. Irish whip by Reks, reversed by Masters with a shoulder block. Masters followed with a Sky High Spinebuster for a two count. Reks then went up top to jump at Masters, who caught him in the Masterlock. This one is over.

WINNER: Chris Masters via submission at 4:40. I thought this was a surprisingly good match. I've been saying for a while that I feel Chris Masters deserves a decent push. Will he ever get it? Who knows, but I think he deserves an opportunity.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU & D.H. SMITH vs. USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO)

Smith and Jey Uso started the match. Smith on offense first with an armbar. Uso fought out with punches to the back, then Kozlov made a pin attempt for a two count. Huge scoop slam by Smith for another two count. Tag to Tatsu, tag to Jimmy, and huge headbutt by Jimmy Uso, followed by several uppercuts to the face. Tatsu threw Jimmy out of the ring and dove onto him as they cut to commercial.

Back from commercial, Jimmy had Tatsu in a headlock. Tatsu worked his way to a tag to Smith, who scored with a seated powerbomb for a two count. The Usos then pulled a switch ala the Bellas. One of the Usos then threw Smith shoulder-first into the ringpost before rolling him up for the pin.

WINNERS: The Usos at 10:21. That was a really slow match. I don't think it was a bad match, but it just didn't do anything for me. On another note, if WWE can continue forming tag teams like they have with Tatsu & Smith and Zack & Primo, they could build a decent tag division, if only on Superstars each week.

3 -- WWE tag champions SANTINO & KOZLOV vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO -- non-title match Santino & Kozlov VS "The Woo Woo Kid" Zack Ryder & Primo in a non-title match.

Ryder and Santino started the match, which opened with Ryder running away from The Cobra. After Primo briefly tagged in, Ryder came back with an errant elbow drop. Santino applied an armbar, then tagged in Kozlov, who landed several shoulder blocks to Ryder's stomach. Santino tagged in and Ryder landed a big powerbomb. Primo and Ryder worked over Santino as they cut to break.

Back from commercial, Ryder had Santino in a headlock. Santino fought out with a hip toss. Tag to Primo. Primo landed a headbutt to Santino's stomach. Tag to Ryder. Ryder landed a big clothesline to Santino for a two count. Tag to Primo. Primo his a suplex for a two count, then backed Santino into the corner and tagged in Ryder. Santino then stepped out of the way of a double clothesline and tagged in Kozlov. Kozlov cleaned house, then went to work on Primo. After the action broke down, Santino tagged himself in and hit the Cobra. This one is over.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 10:20. I thought there were too many tags in this match and I felt the wrong team won this match. Even though Ryder & Primo lasted more than ten minutes with the champions, it seemed like all the match accomplished was hurting momentum that Zack & Primo had going for them.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 19 2011, 04:42 pm
TNA Impact! Resultd: 2-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_47818.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- HERNANDEZ vs. DOUGLAS WILLIAMS

Hernandez dominated Douglas once the bell sounded. The camera cut to Sarita, who cut a promo on Velvet Sky while action was ongoing in the ring. Suddenly, Velvet charged Sarita and a fight broke out ringside. More fighting ringside that brought Angelina Love to ringside to defend Velvet. Back in the ring, Hernandez choked Williams with a towel as they cut to a shot of the Knockouts brawling up the ramp to the back. Hernandez cockily set up for the Border Toss and proceeded to throw Williams dangerously onto the back of his neck. Hernandez then made the pin, and they replayed the finish.

WINNER: Hernandez at 1:58. That Border Toss looked so unsafe and amateurish. I don't think anyone in TNA would want to work with Hernandez after seeing that. Regarding Williams, why feed him to Hernandez in a two-minute squash? Example of misusing talent. (n/a)

2 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. ROBBIE E. -- X Division Title match

Robbie jumped Kaz to start the match as Tenay said he just received word of Beautiful People vs. Sarita & Rosita tonight. Kaz made a comeback, then set up for his finisher, but Cookie stormed the ring and popped Kaz in the gut with a handbag. The ref threw out the match and the crowd went quiet. Cookie then tackled and choked Kazarian as the bell continued to sound. Traci was apparently in the restroom, as it took her about a minute to come make the save. Traci and Cookie brawled for a bit before their men separated them.

WINNER: Kaz via DQ at 1:58. Not enough time or focus for the match to stand out. (n/a)

3-- A.J. STYLES vs. MATT HARDY

Styles flew into the ring and attacked Hardy, knocking him to the floor. Styles then hit a flip-dive taking out Hardy. Hardy recovered, then knocked Styles into the guardrail. Suddenly, Styles was in his more recent full-length wrestling pants. Ric Flair then came down to ringside for a closer look at the action. Styles made a comeback with multiple clotheslines before teasing the Styles Clash. Hardy escaped, then tripped over Styles trying to run over Styles. Hardy then stumbled into a patented dropkick. Styles high-fived Flair, then went for a springboard flying forearm, but Flair shoved him down. Styles crashed and burned and the crowd was silent. Hardy then hit the Twist of Hate on Styles for the win. Post-match: Flair choked Styles with his jacket before Beer Money and Kaz stormed the ring to chase off Flair, who celebrated with Matt Hardy a safe distance away from Fortune.

WINNER: Hardy at 3:23. Another short match leading to another turn. They missed an opportunity to make Flair turning on his year-long protégé, Styles, a big deal with about four weeks of TV packed into 20 minutes. There's just no sense of pacing to these stories. It's amateur hour. (n/a)

4 -- BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE (ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY) vs. SARITA & ROSITA

Beautiful People's music hit to bring out Angelina Love, who was wearing one of the Knockouts division Tag Titles, and Velvet Sky. Sarita and Rosita were out next for the featured KO tag match of the show. They took their time entering the ring, so the BP jumped them on the entrance ramp to start the match. The match went back-and-forth before breaking down. In the confusion, Sarita covered Velvet for a pin as Rosita held down Sarita for additional leverage.

Post-match: Velvet grabbed a mic and cut a scathing promo on Sarita, who just laughed at her. Sarita responded by telling Velvet if she wants a one-on-one re-match, then put her career on the line. Velvet agreed.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita at 3:47. More build to the apparent blow-off match in the Velvet vs. Sarita feud.

5 -- TNA World champion JEFF HARDY vs. ROB VAN DAM -- TNA World Title match -- Mr. Anderson special referee

Tenay said he just received word Flair has accepted Styles's challenge for a match on next week's show. RVD dominated early on, then knocked Hardy to the floor. RVD connected with a spin kick as Hardy was draped over the guardrail, then sold a left knee injury. They cut to break.

Back from break, Van Dam hit a slingshot leg drop across the middle rope and continued to sell the knee. In the ring, Van Dam hit another slingshot leg drop for a nearfall. Hardy begged off in the corner and RVD mockingly acted sympathetic, drawing a few bleeped comments from Hardy. RVD followed with a split-legged moonsault attempt, but Hardy got his knees up to block. Hardy then smashed RVD into the ringpost, sending Van Dam flying to the floor. Hardy did his dance as Anderson casually sat down on the ring steps to check on RVD.

Back in the ring, Hardy landed a front suplex for a nearfall. He tried to follow with Whisper in the Wind, but RVD moved and followed right up with a standing moonsault. Both men recovered to their feet, then Van Dam dropped Hardy to the mat and hit Rolling Thunder for a nearfall. Hardy came back with offense and a nearfall, prompting Hardy to get in Anderson's face to complain about his cadence. RVD used the opening to come back with a spin kick, followed by the Five-Star Frogsplash. Van Dam was slow to make a cover, though, and Hardy got his foot on the bottom rope for a break that Anderson acknowledged.

They went to the finish with Hardy teasing a ref bump in the corner, which prompted Anderson to get right in Hardy's face. That caused Anderson to miss Hardy landing a mule kick since Anderson's anger had him too focused on Hardy. Hardy then hit the Twist of Fate on Van Dam. Hardy made a cover and Anderson maintained eye contact with Hardy with each reluctant pound of the mat for a three count.

Post-match: Anderson raised Hardy's hand in victory, then dropped him with the Mic Check. Van Dam recovered and asked Anderson what was up with the finish. Van Dam was holding his crotch half-heartedly complaining, then Anderson dropped RVD with the Mic Check. Anderson tossed the title belt down to Hardy and left the ring as the only man left standing to conclude the show.

WINNER: Hardy at 12:12 to retain the TNA Title. Good story to a going-through-the-motions title match. The main objective here was obviously keeping Anderson strong, setting up a future re-match vs. vulnerable heel champion Hardy. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 19 2011, 04:44 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-18-11

Results courtesy of Guess Who? (http://"http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_47845.shtml") Blah, blah, in-ring, yadda...

1 – EDGE & RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON & R-TRUTH & REY MYSTERIO & JOHN CENA vs. CM PUNK & KING SHEAMUS & WADE BARRETT & DREW MCINTYRE & KANE & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Booker mentioned his reign as King Booker when Sheamus came out. Mathews mentioned that Kane competed on the very first Smackdown, and during each entrance, the announcers talked about their association with Smackdown and/or their chances in the Chamber match. Mathews sounded like he was reading from a script for most of them. After all the entrances, the match started at 8:09 EST.

McIntyre began the match with Edge, and the two traded aggressive tactics in the corner. Edge finally got the dupe and tagged Truth. Ziggler came in and was taken down with a hip-lock take-over. Truth tagged Orton for a nice pop. “Randy” chant as Ziggler bumped around for Orton’s offense. High knee-drop found the mark and got two in the first cover of the match. Cena was next to give Ziggler a beating. He ran into an elbow in the corner and Ziggler got some heat back, but only briefly. Bulldog by Cena as Cole mentioned Cena was the victim of a verbal beat-down from The Rock on Monday, the first mention of Rock being on Raw. Morrison was in and he tripped up Ziggler. He set up for Starship Pain, but Ziggler stopped him and did an inverted slam off the top rope. Match continues after break, which they went to at just under the four-minute mark.

After break, they returned with Sheamus suplexing Morrison, then going for a cover. It only got one. Punk came in and mocked Morrison for what happened to his eyes courtesy of Nexus. Crowd was really hot. Punk held Morrison’s leg, but Morrison tagged Rey anyway. Huge reaction for the hometown hero. After a near-fall, Mysterio set Punk up for the 619. Punk caught him and gave him a back-breaker. He hooked the outside leg and his pin attempt got two. Kane was next in and he pounded away at Rey in a neutral corner. Bearhug by Kane. Rey got the crowd behind him and broke out of the hold. Mysterio tried to fight out of the heel corner, but walked into a choke. Kane threw Rey out of the ring and his shoulder ran right into Punk’s gut, as Punk was on the arena floor. Punk didn’t seem to sell it much, so I’d assume it was a miscue of sorts. They went to break again at the 12:00 mark.

Rey was still being worked over by the heels, and this time, it was Sheamus having his way with the little man. Not that he won’t normally play this role, but they’re in the right town for him to gain sympathy with the fans. Rey was a few fingertips away from tagging, but Sheamus overpowered him and gave him the Irish Curse back-breaker. Back to the heel corner, where Barrett got to get his licks in. Cole noted that The Miz will be in action later tonight. Barrett missed a corner charge and Rey climbed to the top. He moonsaulted onto Barrett and both men were down. Both men tried to make tags at the 18:00 mark, and both did. It was Edge and Ziggler, and Edge got the better of the presumed-World Champion. Edge had the crazy eyes, but Sheamus stopped a spear attempted. Everybody came in and hit their finisher on everyone else (where’s the DQ?) until it was Rey and Barrett. Rey dialed up the 619 on Barrett, and he also hit Ziggler, who kinda stumbled into position. Then Edge speared Ziggler for the pinfall win.

WINNERS: Cena, Edge, Mysterio, Morrison, Truth and Orton, at 20:15. Pretty hot match with enough tags and fresh men in there so that there was no down-time.

2 – EVE TORRES & BETH PHOENIX vs. LAYLA & MARYSE

Michelle McCool was on commentary. She said Layla injured her a few weeks back when her head went into McCool’s foot. Maryse slapped Beth, who didn’t’ take kindly to it. Maryse desperately made the tag and Layla started to work the arm of Beth, but Beth just shoved her down. She lifted Layla up by the arm, but the landing wasn’t smooth. Eve tagged in and hit a few dropkicks. Suplex by Eve, float-over for a two-count. Sunset flip by Eve, but Layla rolled through and slammed Eve’s head into the mat. McCool left the commentary table and got on the apron to yell at Eve. Beth took a shot at McCool’s injured leg, and while the ref was distracted, the heels gave Eve a double superkick and Layla made the pin.

WINNERS: Layla and Maryse, at 2:27. Eh. I feel like the whole division is just running on a treadmill until Kong debuts.

3 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE MIZ

Alex Riley seconded The Miz. Miz started slowly with a wrist-lock, and Kofi responded with a deep arm-drag. Flying cross-body for two, then another by the IC Champion. A third, and he still only got a two-count. He worked an arm-bar at 1:30 of the match. Miz got a cheap-shot on Kingston in the corner and had to be restrained by referee Charles Robinson. Kofi fought out of the corner and whipped Miz back into it. Kingston missed a charge but hopped onto the second rope; Miz kicked his leg and Kingston hit the mat. They went to break at the 2:36 mark.

The show returned just shy of 6:00 into the contest. Miz was in control and he used Kofi’s hair to keep the Ghana native at bay. Kingston got to his feet, but Miz took him back down to one knee, working the back and shoulders of Kingston. They continued to counter each other, and Kofi got Miz with a backslide for two. SOS was countered by Miz, but then Kingston landed a hurricanrana that sent Miz into the corner. Miz backed Kingston into the corner at 8:00, and Kingston hit the flip kick, then a cross-body off the top for two (of course, Mathews thought it was going to be the finish). Superman punch by Kofi, followed by the Boom Drop. Kingston started clapping, signaling that he was ready for the Trouble in Paradise, but Alberto Del Rio made his way to the ring, distracting Kofi. Miz rolled Kofi up, but Kofi reversed it for two. Riley got on the apron and Del Rio swatted Kofi with his scarf for another distraction, which allowed Miz to come from behind and hit Kofi with the Skull Crushing Finale for the win.

WINNER: Miz, at 10:09. Not a particularly inspired match, but it was okay. Miz could’ve used a decisive win here, but I also understand them wanting to build Kofi vs. Del Rio for the PPV too.

5 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV & SANTINO MARELLA – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSIHP MATCH

Kozlov caught a cross-body attempt by Gabriel and gave him a fall-away slam. Gabriel rolled to the outside, bringing Barrett and Ezekiel Jackson out to ringside. Barrett got on the apron to distract Kozlov, and Gabriel ran in and took out Kozlov’s legs. Tag in to Slater, who continued to work the leg. Kozlov took Slater down and made the hot tag (at 1:22) to Marella. Hip-toss by Marella, then a diving headbutt. Cover got two, interrupted by Slater. He was thrown out of the ring by Kozlov. Marella readied for the Cobra and struck Gabriel with it. At that point, Jackson and Barrett ran in to save their fellow Corre member from a pinfall loss.

WINNERS: Marella and Kozlov, via DQ, at 2:00.

Big Show came out to help Marella and Kozlov. “The odds are even!” proclaimed Mathews, but I count Corre still up four men to three. Show took out Gabriel and Slater, and Jackson teased getting in the ring to face Show one-on-one, but he declined the opportunity.

6 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. EDGE – WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Edge took Ziggler down early, and Edge set up for a spear. Ziggler leap-frogged it, and Edge ran into the turnbuckle. On the outside, Ziggler kicked Edge in the head. Edge was rolled into the ring, but Edge got stuck in the ropes, not allowing Ziggler to make a legal pin. Rear chinlock by Dolph, but Edge fought out. Ziggler caught Edge coming off the ropes and applied the sleeper hold. Zig Zag countered by Edge, but Edge speared Ziggler in the middle of the ring and picked up the win and the title.

WINNER: Edge, at 3:02. A bit surprising the finish was so abrupt. I don’t like the idea of recognizing Ziggler as champion for such a short time (I don’t think holding the title for what amounted to one show does anything for him as much as being a main eventer did), if they go that route.
.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 23 2011, 12:51 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_47925.shtml) Condensed here mostly to in-ring results however there were several other non-action highlights I'll touch upon...

- John Cena started the show going 'old-school thuganomics' with a verbal assault on The Rock.

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. JOHN MORRISON

The bell sounded and the two men danced around the ring tentative to lock up. Morrison landed right hand strikes, then limped out of the corner. Morrison landed an uppercut, but Punk pulled down Morrison from the outside and rammed Morrison's knee across the ring apron. The 2/21/11 countdown clock flashed starting from 38:38. Punk continued to work on Morrison's injured knee from the Chamber match and scored successive nearfalls.

Morrison fired back with right hand strikes moments later, but hopped up to his feet selling the knee injury. Punk then kicked Morrison in the injured knee and capitalized with the G2S. It was good for the win. Punk was slow to his feet still selling the effects of the match as the announcers tried to cover for Morrison's loss, not being 100 percent for the match.

WINNER: Punk at 2:53. Morrison and Punk were really limited on what they could do selling the effects of the PPV, which they should have been doing, so that was good. The decision to make this match was odd, though, when WWE could have booked this match next week where Morrison could still look strong in defeat. This spot could have been a showcase opportunity for non-Chamber match wrestlers while the Chamber match participants were kept completely out of the ring to sell the ramifications via promos. (*)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & GAIL KIM vs. BELLA TWINS

The match quickly spilled to the outside, getting over the animosity in-play between the two sides. For the finish, the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo behind the ref's back and Eve was rolled up for a quick three count. Afterward, Eve was furious as the Bellas quickly hurried away, content with the victory. They did the belt-around-the-waist motion to show they want the Divas Title.

WINNERS: Bellas at 2:28. Fine to get over the Bellas's more aggressive personalities and give Eve a new heel challenger(s).

- The Undertaker returns. No surprise. Triple H returning and interrupting him...to most people, that WAS a surprise.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY

Henry grappled Sheamus and tossed him over the top rope. It's odd to transition from that big Taker-Hunter moment into the rest of the show. It seemed like an end-of-the-show segment to fade into next week's Raw. Sheamus and Henry traded power offense early, then Henry went for a big splash, but Sheamus rolled out of the way. Sheamus landed a kick to the head, then decided to remove a top turnbuckle pad for some reason. It back-fired, as Henry smashed Sheamus into the corner steel. Henry then hit the World's Strongest Slam for the win. The announcers said Sheamus apparently became frustrated after losing in the Chamber last night and he went for a shortcut against Henry.

WINNER: Henry at 3:48. It could be interesting to see where both men are heading on the way to WrestleMania. Sheamus being the first man out following Triple H's big return was pretty interesting considering that could have been Sheamus's WrestleMania opponent. (*)

- Cole interviewed Jerry Lawler and The King challenged him to a 1-on-1 match. Don't know about the rest of you but I can't stand Cole anymore!

4 -- WWE tag champions CORRE (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/Jackson and Barrett) vs. WWE champion THE MIZ & JOHN CENA -- WWE Tag Title match

Mathews said Miz and Cena are teaming together for the first-time ever. Miz and Slater started things off and Lawler dropped "wrestling" into the broadcast, saying Miz was trying to give Slater a "wrestling clinic." Gabriel tagged in and Miz taunted Cena while landing punches on Gabriel. Cena casually extended his hand and accepted a tag from Miz to knock Gabriel around a bit. Cena executed a fisherman suplex on Gabriel, then Miz smirked at him and asked for a tag. Cena obliged and Lawler said the two men are trying to one-up the other. Miz hit the corner clothesline on Gabriel and Cena mock applauded him. Miz then casually dropped Gabriel with the Skullcrushing Finale. One, two, three and there are new tag champs.

WINNERS: Cena & Miz at 3:12 to capture the Tag Titles. Um, that was anticlimactic.

Post-match: Cena acted dumbfounded as Miz accepted a Tag Title belt. Cena, still on the apron, accepted the other Tag Title belt. Cena then shrugged his shoulders and walked across the ring to celebrate in an opposite corner, having fun with the situation. Wade Barrett then took the mic and demanded a re-match for the Tag Titles right now. Santino & Kozlov are still owed a Tag Title shot somewhere in this. Suddenly, the Raw GM buzzed. Mathews took Cole's place and stepped to the podium to read from the laptop. Mathews said the GM says, "Ring the bell." The bell sounded and Corre huddled ringside as the tag belts were held up for the hard camera. They cut to break with the arena completely silent for these proceedings.

5 -- WWE tag champions JOHN CENA & WWE champion THE MIZ vs. CORRE (HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL w/Barrett and Jackson) -- WWE Tag Title match

Back live, Gabriel and Slater were assigned for the re-match. Why not mix up the team after the quick loss in the first match-up? Jackson and Gabriel? Barrett and Gabriel? Miz was knocked to the floor early on and the other Corre members kept Alex Riley away from Miz, who took a boot to the head from Gabriel. Back in the ring, Gabriel scored a nearfall on Miz. Miz teased a comeback (to some cheers), then Corre isolated Miz in their corner. From the outside, Barrett landed a cheap shot for good measure, but it was only good for a two count. Miz hit the Reality Check at 7:25 and the crowd cheered for Miz to tag in John Cena, but Slater cut off Miz before a tag could be made.

Cena continued to extend his hand for a tag as Mathews reset the show and noted Cena & Miz are indeed the new tag champions. Cena curiously surveyed the crowd as they cheered for a tag. Miz teased it, but Gabriel pulled him back to center-ring for a reverse chinlock. Gabriel wanted a top-rope move, but Miz blocked with a boot to the head. Cena then asked the crowd to will on Miz, who crawled across the desert and hot-tagged Cena, who came in hot. The usual comeback routine ensued before Cena dropped Slater with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Suddenly, Miz snuck in from behind on Cena and dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Gabriel covered Cena and it was good for the pin.

WINNERS: Corre at 11:08 to re-capture the WWE Tag Titles. What we learned: Miz can't be trusted, Miz could get over as a top face way down the road after this test-run, Cena can be gullible, and the tag champions have zero credibility. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 26 2011, 11:35 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-21-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling,net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10016903.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results as usual...

1. Christopher Daniels defeated Devon Storm to retain the ROH Television Championship at 7:49. For those who don't know, Devon Storm wrestled in WCW and TNA as Crowbar. They traded headlocks to start and then ran the ropes. Storm hit a punch to the stomach and a front hook suplex for two. Daniels came back with a heel kick and worked a wrist lock.

Storm made the ropes and broke dirty. He choked Daniels and raked his eyes in the corner. He backed up and charged and he and Daniels tumbled over the top rope to the floor. He hit a hangman drop on the barricade and rolled Daniels in the ring for a near fall.

Storm whipped Daniels to the corner and charged. Daniels got the foot up and took control. He worked his offense and hit an enziguri followed by a STO for two. Daniels setup for Angel's Wings, but Storm reversed and hit a suplex with a bridge for two.

He followed with a front flip leg drop for two. Daniels awkwardly reversed a clothesline attempt into the bulldog to the turnbuckle. He followed with a slam and the BME for the win…

Shore's Slant: That was a good match, but the end series was slow and awkward looking. It really hurt the match because that was the last thing we saw.

2. Claudio Castagnoli (w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) defeated Rhett Titus at 6:13. They shoved each other to start, and then traded chops and punches. Claudio played to the crowd and whipped Titus to the corner. He charged in and Titus hit a back elbow. He charged at Claudio, and Claudio hip tossed him over the top rope. He went to the floor and worked Rhett on the barricade and apron. Rhett made it back in at 19.

Claudio stomped on Titus and worked a rest hold. Titus drove him back to the corner and tried for a bulldog, but Claudio reversed into the UFO for two. Claudio lifted for the Riccola bomb, but Rhett flipped out and hit a standing dropkick.

Titus went to the top and hit a double knee to the stomach from the top rope for two. He hit a kick off the ropes and went for another. Hagadorn grabbed the foot to cause Rhett to stumble and Claudio hit a clothesline for the pinfall victory.

Post-match, Kenny King ran out and argued with the ref. Chris Hero ran out and all four men battled. Claudio slipped to the floor and the ANX clotheslined Hero over the top. Titus hit a Thesz Press from the apron on Claudio on the floor and the ANX celebrated in the ring…

Shore's Slant: Good match that played out well. My guess is King goes over in the next match in some fluke way so that everyone comes out of this looking good. I'm glad they reminded me of the PPV. I forgot.

3. Kenny King (w/Rhett Titus) defeated Chris Hero (w/Claudio Castagnoli, Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Ray) at 9:56. The bell rang as soon as the show came back and they started on the floor. King hit a flipping back elbow from the barricade and rolled Hero in the ring.

Hero hit a kick to retake control and hit a high vertical suplex for two. Hero said something that got bleeped and chopped King in the corner. He whipped King to the corner and charged. King reversed into a twisting Sunset flip for two. Hero threw King to the floor and Rhett distracted the ref so Claudio could get a few cheap shots in.

Hero hit the rolling elbow and then a clothesline splash in the corner. He went for a moonsault from the springboard and landed on his feet. He spun for another elbow and King hit a Trouble in Paradise type kick. He hit two more kicks to the head and then a spine buster for a great near fall.

King charged and Hero hit a knee. He followed with a rolling kick for two and tried for a Liger bomb. King hooked a small package out of the lift for two. Hero hit the running Liger bomb for another great near fall. Del Ray distracted the ref and Hagadorn held King in the corner.

Hero tried for a splash, but King moved and hooked a surprise roll up for the win. Post-match, the KOW destroyed the ANX and tossed the ref from the ring…A final video hyped the 9th Anniversary Show on iPPV this Saturday…

Shore's Slant: Excellent match to close the show and serve as the go-home for the PPV. This has the potential to be the best match on the card. But so do many of the others. I had forgotten it was this weekend, and I didn't feel like they did a great job of reminding me. All the elements were there, but it just didn't click with me until half way through. Not sure why.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 26 2011, 11:35 am
WWE NXT Results: 2-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_47959.shtml) There was only one match and an elimination.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN vs. BRODUS CLAY vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Bateman and Clay slowly eased toward Clay, trying to corner the big man, who just threw Bateman over the top rope to the floor. Grisham recapped the immunity points at this point as Clay worked over Curtis. Bateman re-entered the ring as the announcers spent about 60 seconds debating whether the first challenge or the second challenge was worth three points, neither, or both. Organized chaos from the NXT announcers.

Clay stuffed a boot in Bateman's throat, but Curtis smashed Brodus from behind. Bateman and Curtis then double-clotheslined Clay over the top rope. Bateman followed with a dive onto Clay ringside, clearing both men to the floor. Curtis then showed off some aerial ability flying over the top rope with a somersault dive onto both men. He landed on his feet, then celebrated as they cut to break.

Back from break, Curtis was working over Bateman in the ring while Clay caught his breath on the floor. Bateman and Curtis exchanged holds while Mathews noted Curtis's problem on NXT has been being lost in the shuffle between Bateman's "antics" and Brodus being Brodus. Bateman was in control at 7:00 and landed a big flying dropkick on Curtis in the corner. Clay then grabbed Curtis's head and tried squeezing it like a melon while ref Scott Armstrong just watched rather than requesting a break in the corner. Clay followed with a butt bomb on Bateman and two men were down in each corner.

Clay followed up on Curtis with a snap suplex for a two count, then resumed a corner attack on Bateman. Bateman then took a modified t-bone suplex and took his sweet time attempting a cover on Bateman, allowing Curtis to come off the top with a big guillotine leg drop. He was slow to make a cover on Brodus and scored a nearfall. A pin on Bateman also resulted in a nearfall. All three men recovered to their feet moments later, then Bateman and Curtis executed a ring-rattling double suplex, as Mathews called it. Curtis followed with a suplex smashing Bateman on top of Clay. Curtis then rolled up Bateman and it was good for the three and the win.

WINNER: Curtis at 11:01. Nice finish to the match. Also, nice tease that Curtis has a shot of ending up in the finals.

Clay had the most immunity points and Bateman was eliminated.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 26 2011, 11:37 am
WWE Superstars Results: 2-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_48034.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champions THE CORRE (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER) vs. JTG & TRENT BARRETA -- non-title match

Prior to the bell sounding, the announcers noted "chaos in WWE" has led to JTG and Barreta banding together to form a unit. Korpela and Striker then talked up the Corre's interesting week related to the Tag Titles, and Striker questioned Wade Barrett invoking Corre's immediate re-match for the Tag Titles on Raw if they are "equal units" in the group. Korpela then noted the close bond between Slater and Gabriel, even going to the club together.

The match built to a hot tag to JTG, who landed signature offense on Slater before the action broke down. The tag champs then used a double-team attack on JTG behind the ref's back and Slater hit his finisher, "Sweetness by Slater," for the pin on JTG. Gabriel and Slater shared a moment post-match celebrating with the tag belts.

WINNERS: Corre at 4:08. Standard fare for the makeshift tag division.

2 -- TYLER REKS vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Immediately back from break, Reks and Masters were in the ring for the second Smackdown match of the show. Korpela said Reks had destroyed everything in his path before he met his match in the form of the Masterlock. Reks, itching for a piece of Masters, quickly went on the offensive as Korpela stretched an odd comparison between Masters and Peyton Manning. To their credit, the announcers stuck with a sports theme throughout the call as Reks wore down Masters. Masters rebounded with a shoulder block from the second rope, then he teased the Masterlock. Reks initially broke free, but Masters re-applied the move and Reks was forced to submit. Masters sold intensity after his second victory over Reks as the announcers referenced Masters's quest to get on the WrestleMania 27 card.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:28. WWE is building up Masters under the radar on Superstars, but I don't see a place for him at WrestleMania unless it's in Money in the Bank.

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA (w/Tamina) vs. TYSON KIDD

Mathews said Santino is viewing this as a "new beginning" after Santino & Kozlov dropped the Tag Titles at the Elimination Chamber PPV. Stanford noted Kidd's lost storyline of seeking a U.S. Title shot. Santino taunted Kidd with an early Cobra sighting, causing Kidd to back off into the ropes. An ugly dropdown/leapfrog exchange ensued that Santino played off as Kidd making a fool of himself. Kidd came back with aggressive offense driving Santino to a seated position in the corner. Kidd attempted his springboard elbow drop finisher, but Santino moved out of the way, kipped up, and warmed up The Cobra. Santino then popped Kidd in the mouth to the delight of the kids and it was good for a pin. Cue up the trumpet celebration for Santino and Tamina.

WINNER: Santino at 4:05. Basic singles match focusing on Santino as a mid-card singles wrestler on Raw.

4 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE (w/Maryse) -- non-title match

Bryan scored with an early thrust kick for a nearfall, then DiBiase came back with kicks and stomps. Bryan came back with another flying kick as Stanford acted incredulous about Bryan's vegan lifestyle. DiBiase returned fire on DiBiase with an inside-out clothesline as they cut to break.

Back from break, DiBiase had Bryan in a neck vice that Bryan fought out of with forearm strikes. DiBiase then nailed a backbreaker into a dropkick to the back for a nearfall. DiBiase continued to score nearfalls, working himself into frustration as Maryse just smiled along. Bryan came back with a signature back flip, clothesline duck, and flying forearm smash to cut off DiBiase. Stanford said it was ninja-like. "Ninja?!" Mathews replied. DiBiase teased Dream Street moments later, but Bryan back-dropped DiBiase over the top rope to the floor. Bryan followed with a suicide dive.

Back in the ring, DiBiase avoided a top-rope attack and turned a Dream Street attempt into an overhead release suplex for a nearfall. Suddenly, Yoshi Tatsu (in a suit) walked to ringside with flowers in-hand. Yoshi approached Maryse and offered her flowers, which drew DiBiase's ire. Maryse smiled and accepted the gift. Yoshi offered his lips for a kiss, but Maryse turned him down. DiBiase screamed at Maryse, "What are you doing?!" She then popped DiBiase in the face with the apparent loaded boutique, as DiBiase sold like he was hit with a brick. DiBiase fell backward into Bryan, who slapped on the LeBell Lock. DiBiase was forced to tap out after showing brief resistance.

Post-match: Maryse high-tailed it to the entrance ramp selling frustration with the turn of the events. She then left to the back, showing no remorse for her actions. Bryan celebrated with the U.S. Title belt as Yoshi slowly made his way up the ramp. They closed with two final shots of DiBiase recovering on the mat, his head about to pop off his shoulders selling anger, and Yoshi standing on the ramp with an Urkel-like "Did I do that?" look.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 10:37. Fine main event, certainly a step-up compared to recent main events on Superstars. Apparently DiBiase vs. Yoshi will be coming to a Monday or Thursday night broadcast in the near future. DiBiase is still portraying a castrated heel, but at least it's a slightly more interesting castrated character. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 26 2011, 11:39 am
TNA Impact! Results: 2-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_48029.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results per usual.

1 – GUNNER & MURPHY vs. ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN

Right off othe bell, Murphy went to tackle E.Y. but he moved, sending Murphy face-first into Orlando’s crotch. Naturally, he rubbed his junk in Murphy’s face, leading to a quick roll up by E.Y. for a one count. Gunner was quickly tagged in and he went for a running clothesline. Young ducked again and started running the ropes in opposite directions. EY went from left to right and Gunner went from north to south. They kept running until Gunner got tired and put his hands on his knees to huff and puff.

Unfortunately, he did this right in front of Jordan, who smacked him on the rear. Right as Gunner was getting slapped, Tenay announced that Beer Money would defend the Tag Team Titles against Immortal’s Gunner & Murphy at next week’s big show. Young tried to start the criss-cross sequence again, but Gunner quickly dumped Jordan to the side, decked E.Y., and tagged in Murphy.

Meanwhile, Beer Money did their best trying to talk up G&M as threats to their titles next week. Roode said that they’ve hung out with them before and know they’re for real and Storm chimed in to remind everyone that they were in Immortal with them and they had been in plenty of bar fights on the same side. Storm said that Beer Money was responsible to prove they are the best.

Back in the ring, Murphy had Young in a tight headlock. After Young fought out, Gunner tagged in and was quickly hit by a jawbreaker. Murphy tagged back in and then Young managed to push him into the corner. Bizarrely, Young then dropped his pants to reveal his old Team Canada trunks before Gunner clotheslined him from the ring apron.

As Jordan came into the ring to protest the interference, Murphy leveled him with a clothesline. Roode was in the process of telling the announcers that Flair made a really bad decision crossing Fortune last week as Gunner hit a flying elbow off of the top turnbuckle into E.Y., who was being held up for a side slam by Murphy. I guess Immortal’s tag team now has a tag team finisher. That ended things, as Gunner & Murphy picked up their first win in TNA.

WINNERS: Gunner & Murphy in 3:00.

2 - CRIMSON vs. MAGNUS

Crimson quickly hit an exploder suplex on Magnus before landing a big neckbreaker. Magnus tried to bail out of the ring, but Crimson grabbed him over the top rope by the head. However, Magnus guillotined him on the top rope, which allowed him to slither back into the ring and hit a big boot to knock Crimson to the ground.

Magnus then played to the crowd, saying he was going to hit a move (didn’t catch the name), but Crimson sprang up and hit the impressive-looking finisher not yet seen on TNA TV (Tenay called it the Red Alert). The Red Alert is a move where Crimson picks his opponent up like he’s setting up for the World’s Strongest Slam but instead spins him to his left and then uses the momentum to hit a powerful DDT. Needless to say, the debut of this move was enough for him to get the quick pinfall victory.

WINNER: Crimson in 1:00.

3 – Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE VS. ODB

ODB got a big cheer early from the crowd and was in control early with a big bodyslam followed by a huge Flair chop on Rayne’s chest. She stomped Madison in the corner and then went for the Bronco Buster, but Rayne moved in time.

Madison jumped back into dominant position by putting a stunned ODB’s face between her knees and slamming her face repeatedly into the mat. After ODB got back up, Rayne hit her with a backstabber. Madison tried to set up another series of face slams, but ODB managed to fight out and deck Madison in the face. After a couple of stiff punches, she hit a series of clotheslines on the Knockouts Champion.

ODB was really feeling at as she hit an overhead fallaway slam on Madison before kipping back up and playing to the crowd. She realized that Madison was down in the corner and ODB finally hit her Bronco Buster. As ODB put Madison on her shoulders, Rayne managed to fight out and hit a with some sort of swinging knee to the back of the head for an abrupt victory.

WINNER: Madison Rayne in 5:00.

4 – MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM vs. KURT ANGLE

No answer to either of my questions, so I’m guessing No and No. The bell rang directly upon return from break as both Angle and RVD jumped Anderson right off the bat, taking turns punching and kicking him around the ring before hitting a double back body drop in the middle of the ring. They then followed that up by hitting a double vertical suplex. Angle then stood back and let RVD hit three consecutive shoulder blocks on Anderson in the corner. However, Angle went for a spear and missed as Anderson moved, sending Kurt out to the floor.

RVD didn’t let Anderson get far, though, as he threw him into the corner and hit a big monkey flip across the ring. He then lined Anderson up in the corner and hit a few punches before Anderson shoved him off. However, Angle re-entered the ring at that point to clothesline Anderson to the mat. However, RVD had enough of cooperation and clotheslined Kurt down next to him. With both men lying side by side in perfect position, RVD went for a double Rolling Thunder. However, as RVD was flipping onto them, Anderson rolled out to ringside to leave Angle to take the full blow.

This allowed Anderson to get back into the ring and hit RVD hard before throwing him into the ropes and nailing a swinging neckbreaker. However, as he was getting up, Angle had recovered enough to grab him and hit him with a snap suplex. At 3:00, Angle was whipped into the corner but hit Anderson with a big boot before exploding out of the corner with a big clothesline to send Anderson to ringside.

RVD and Angle then stared each other down before going head to head. This didn’t last long as Angle went to bounce off the ropes near the ramp and Anderson pulled the top rope down, spilling Kurt to the floor. Anderson climbed back into the ring but RVD was ready for him, hitting a spinning heel kick followed by a spinning leg drop. This was good for a two count. RVD then Irish-whipped Anderson across the ring but Angle tripped him and pulled him out to ringside. The two men started brawling but were both quickly taken out by RVD flipping over the top onto both. All three combatants were laid out at ringside as the Main Event went to break.

-Back from a three-minute commercial, Van Dam was tangled on the top rope before kicking Angle in the chest. A quick standing moonsault gave him a two count on Kurt. Both men fought back and forth before a charging Angle was back-body dropped over the top rope by RVD.

Immediately, Anderson appeared back in the ring (I guess he was still sprawled outside when they returned from break) and hit a big double sledge on RVD from behind. He then hit a backdrop suplex on RVD before dropping a big knee onto Van Dam’s face. Anderson then locked in an armlock as the crowd cheered on RVD to get back to his feet.

Eventually, RVD managed to elbow his way out and managed to kick Anderson in the chest before hitting a springboard kick off of the second rope. With both men down, Angle managed to get back in the ring and clothesline both men twice. RVD blocked an attempt to whip him into the corner at 10:00, but Angle caught him charging out with a big suplex. Angle immediately turned to Anderson and hit him with one, two, three big German Suplexes before catching a recovered RVD with a big release German Suplex to cap off just a flurry of Angle awesomeness.

Angle then stalked Anderson and hit him with the Angle Slam as soon as he got to his feet. Kurt pulled the strap down to go for the Anklelock, but RVD hit him with a Super Kick. RVD sold exhaustion on the ropes before trying to climb up top for the Five-Star Frog Splash. He ended up taking too much time as Angle charged up to the top and hit his signature Super German Suplex from the top turnbuckle that actually propelled Van Dam out of the ring after hitting the mat on the far side.

But, Kurt was feeling the effects of the move as well, which allowed Anderson to try to hit him with a Mic Check. However, Angle elbowed out of the move and promptly hit Anderson with a overhead throw. Kurt was fired up and pulled down both straps, going for the Anklelock on Anderson.

The match was then interrutped by the sound of wedding music hitting and the Jarretts coming out on the ramp in wedding regalia. This distracted Angle, who dropped his focus on the match to yell at them. This gave Anderson the opening to quickly hit the Mic Check on him for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson in 13:00 (10:00 Televised).

Afterward, Taz said that he didn’t think that Anderson cared about any of the Angle-Jarrett drama, he was just aiming for a victory in this match
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 27 2011, 11:39 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_48054.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – REY MYSTERIO vs. KANE

Both men are coming off the Elimination Chamber match on Sunday night. Kane overpowered Rey at the outset, and landed a low dropkick, getting a two-count thirty seconds into the match. Kane countered a flip by Rey and seemed to set up for the Tombstone, but instead, he slammed him into the corner. He took Rey to the mat and made another pinfall attempt, for only two again. Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Kane for two. It’s been pretty much all Kane in the first 2:00 of this one. Rey tripped Kane up and put him in position for the 619, but Kane rolled to the outside. Rey didn’t let him rest, as he caught Kane with a dropkick through the ropes. High-risk move on the outside didn’t pay off for Rey, as he turned around right into a big boot. They went to break at the 3:07 mark.

Back to action three minutes later. I love this new stopwatch app on my phone! Kane continued to work Rey’s back, then caught Rey and gave him a sidewalk slam for a two-count. Two big elbowdrops by Kane for a near-fall. Bearhug applied by the Big Red Machine. Mysterio fought out at 8:00, but he walked right into Kane’s grip, and was slammed back-first into the corner. Booker put over Rey still being injured and fatigued from the Chamber match. Rey was placed on the top rope, but he fought away from Kane and landed a seated senton. He went to work on Kane’s knee and kicked him in the head for a two-count. To the top rope went Rey, but he got uppercut in the throat by Kane. This time it was Kane who went to the top. He missed his clothesline, but Rey walked right into a chokeslam set-up. He countered and kicked Kane into 619 position. It connected and Rey went for another seated senton, but Kane caught him. Rey twisted around and rolled up the big man for the victory.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 10:32. Rey has a lot of momentum now after looking strong as one of the last two in the Chamber match, then picking up a hard-fought win here over Kane.

2 – ROSA MENDES vs. LAYLA

Both women were already in the ring, while Michelle McCool provided commentary. Rosa attacked Layla to start, but Layla fought back as McCool addressed the tension between LayCool. Rosa missed a shoulder attack and Layla, who was on the apron, pulled her out of the ring. Both ladies spilled to the floor in a dangerous-looking bump. Mendes gave her a forearm, then whipped her hard into the barricade. They came near the announce table, and Layla pushed Rosa into McCool. Michelle fought shoved Mendes from behind, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Mendes, by DQ, at 1:22. Rosa is a brunette now. Maybe her hair was like that the last time she was on TV, but it’s been so long, I don’t remember. That’s about all I have for this match.

3 – JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON

No entrance for Swagger. Kingston’s arm was heavily taped, as they showed Alberto Del Rio attacking the arm on Raw this past Monday. Mathews said WWE physicians advised Kofi not to take this match tonight. Swagger was all over Kingston to start and followed through with a shoulder knock-down for a two-count. Kingston fought back with right hands, then kicks. Kingston had to be restrained by referee Chad Patton while attacking Swagger in the corner. Boom Drop connected, then he landed a flying clothesline in the corner. Swagger came back by slamming Kingston’s leg into the ring post from the outside. Kingston missed a kick and Swagger applied the ankle-lock in the middle of the ring. He tapped out.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:46. Interesting result. Kofi did have the injury excuse, but he came out the clear loser of his feud with Del Rio. However, Swagger also needed a win. I hope they have plans for at least one of these guys for Wrestlemania, other than throwing them in a possible MITB match.

4 – WADE BARRETT vs. THE BIG SHOW – CORRE BANNED FROM RINGSIDE

Show immediately took Barrett to the corner and slapped him in the chest. He did it again in another corner. Body shots from Show, but Barrett caught him with a boot on a charge. He jumped on Show’s back and applied a chinlock. Show got to the ropes to force a break, and Barrett proceeded to stomp a proverbial mud hole in him. They went to break with Barrett in control at 1:52 of the contest.

Back at the 5:03 mark with Show on the mat at the hands of Barrett. Show made his comeback and got to his feet, but Barrett dropkicked the knee of Show. DDT by Barrett with Show on his knees. Cover got two. He won with that move a few weeks ago. Show regrouped and threw Barrett over the top rope. He bent Barrett over the barricade and slapped him in the chest again. He tried to run Barrett into the ring post, but Barrett got off Show’s shoulders and rammed him into the post. Barrett tried to get into the ring before the count, but Show pulled him out before he could get in and Show made it in. So much for selling the post shot.

WINNER: Show, via count-out, at 7:09.

After the match, Show tried to continue the beating, but Corre came out. As they got into the ring, Show fled, but he grabbed a chair and came back in, nailing Justin Gabriel with it. It looked like it was to the head, too. I guess Gabriel got his hands up, but it sounded like it caught his head.

5 – DREW MCINTYRE & VICKIE GUERRERO vs. EDGE & KELLY KELLY – MIXED TAG MATCH; IF DREW AND VICKIE LOSE, VICKIE WILL BE FIRED

Kelly and Vickie started things. Vickie was a bit hesitant to leave the apron at first. Vickie tried a kick and Kelly caught it, then pushed Vickie to the ground. Kelly jumped Vickie and slammed her head into the mat. Vickie got away and tagged out to McIntyre. Mac barked at Kelly that he was the only one who stood up for her. I’m not sure what’s in this for McIntyre, since why would he want to defend Vickie and her position? She fired the woman he was in love with. Sunset flip by Edge for two, but McIntyre came back and mounted Edge, punching away at Edge. Cole did say that if Mac wins and Vickie stays, he may get a shot at the title as a reward. Okay, I can buy that. McIntyre pulled Edge’s hair and slammed him to the mat. McIntyre got distracted by Kelly and Edge face-planted him. Both men were down at the 3:30 spot of the match. They got to their feet and Edge fired away with clotheslines. Face-buster for two. Edge missed a charge in the corner, but caught himself. Vickie slapped him and Edge turned around right into a big boot from McIntyre. Drew set up for a Future Shock DDT, but took too long and Edge countered with the Edgecution. Edge lined up for the spear, but Vickie entered the ring and pleaded with Edge, standing between him and McIntyre. Kelly came in and speared Vickie, allowing Edge to spear McIntyre. Bye bye, Vickie.

WINNERS: Edge and Kelly, at 5:36. Didn’t last as long as I expected. Still a lot of show left, so we’ll see what this leads to now.

Other highlights: Cody Rhodes getting payback on Rey Mysterio with help from his dad Dusty Rhodes, Vickie fired from Smackdown and Del Rio jumping Edge from behind to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 02 2011, 01:57 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's full report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_48118.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

- Triple H hyped his match against The Undertaker, then dropped Sheamus through the announcer table with the Pedigree.

1 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. SHEAMUS

The bell sounded and Bourne smashed Sheamus with a corner dropkick. Bourne followed with a spin kick before going straight to the top. Bourne set up for the Air Bourne and connected flush. Bourne with the cover and it was good for a three count. The crowd popped as Bourne waved to the crowd and smiled.

WINNER: Bourne at 0:35. Sheamus gets two for the price of one, and Bourne looked good in victory. It was what it needed to be for Bourne, but Sheamus is on the wrong road to Mania right now.

- Cole accepted Lawler's challenge if his personal trainer can be at ringside and if he can pick a special guest referee. Lawler says yes and Jack Swagger comes down and puts Lawler in an anklelock.

- RAW GM makes an Orton-Punk match at WM with stipulations: Over the next few weeks, Orton will face individual members of Nexus. If Nexus wins, they get to be in Orton's corner. If a Nexus member loses, he is banned from Mania. If Nexus gets involved in any of the matches, the GM will personally disband New Nexus.

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Orton dominated, then cleared Mike to the outside early on. He posed for the crowd and they cut to break one minute in. Back live, Orton and Mike were battling in the ring as Cole recapped the "major stipulations" involved. Mike cut off Orton's momentum as the announcers continued to try to explain the five bullet-point stipulations in-play leading to WrestleMania. Orton made a comeback with clotheslines, followed by a snap powerslam. Orton then measured Mike for a fallaway backbreaker. Orton got in his zone and measured Mike for his classic spike DDT from the middle rope. He then dropped down to the mat and measured Mike for the RKO and he connected. Orton rolled him over and it was good for a three count. Mathews noted Mike will not be representing Nexus at WrestleMania. Cole said it's one down for Orton.

Post-match: Punk walked out on-stage and peered into the ring. Orton seemed to sense Punk's presence and slowly, slowly, slowly turned toward the stage to eye Punk. Orton then stood over Mike's fallen body and slowly backed up looking for The Punt. Punk told him to stop. He said Orton has done enough and he doesn't want to do this. The crowd roared they want to see it. "Do...not...punt him in the skull," Punk said. Orton then reset in the corner and connected with Mike's skull.

Orton then bailed from the ring as Punk tried to chase him down. Orton ran a few flights of stairs, then looked back to Nexus. Orton pounded his chest and shook his head like Brock Lesnar telling him he's ready. That was great imagery. They cut back to Punk shooting Orton a wide-eyed glare. Cole shouted that Orton should be arrested. Punk then led Nexus back into the ring to check on Mike before they went to a replay of Orton delivering The Punt to Mike's head. Back live, Mike continued to sell the effects as Orton stood tall on the arena steps.

WINNER: Orton at 7:18. The match was just there to get over Orton's signature moves, establish his quest to WrestleMania, and set up the post-match. Orton really turned it up a notch with his post-Punt celebration on the steps looking like Brock Lesnar. Nice intensity. (*)

- Miz and Cena exchanged words (about 13 minutes too long!) and a steel cage match was made between Cena and Riley. Cena wins, Miz fires Riley. Riley wins, then Cena must admit Miz is the greatest of all-time.

3 -- DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match

A random assortment of Raw Divas were already in the ring. It quickly came down to Maryse, Gail, and one of the Bellas. Maryse was eliminated, then Gail eliminated Bella #1, but the Bellas pulled the Switcheroo and Bella #2 eliminated Gail while the refs were occupied with trying to get Maryse away from ringside. Eve then stormed the ring trying to report the injustice. The Bellas beat her down, though, and left Eve out cold.

WINNER: Bella #2 at 2:02. That was the fastest battle royal ever.

- The Rock talk via video from Los Angeles. Yep...over 8 more minutes of talking.

- Shawn Michaels talks about the Underaker-Triple H match. Then The Miz jumps Daniel Bryan from behind and takes him out.

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. ALEX RILEY (w/The Miz) -- steel cage match, only way to win by escaping

Cena dominated the early portion of the match as Miz stretched an analogy putting Rock in the same category as Pee-wee Herman and Mini-me as former guest hosts. Cena then tried to leave through the cage door, but Miz bolted from the announce table to slam the door in Cena's face. Mathews noted Miz gave his word he wouldn't get involved. Riley then slammed Cena into the cage door to take control. Miz then snapped a photo on his phone and Tweeted it. He proceeded to slide his phone to Riley, who used it as a foreign object blow to the forehead. We've seen it all now. Ref Armstrong then casually moved the phone out of the way using his foot for unintentional comedy. Riley tried to escape through the door, but Cena grabbed his feet to pull him back in. Miz ran back over to the door and tried to pull Riley out of the cage, but Cena fought him off. Cena then tried to climb over the cage, but Miz slammed a chair against the cage wall from the outside trying to threaten him. Riley took advantage of the distraction by executing an electric chair. They went to an overhead shot of the cage as Cole fed to a commercial two minutes into the over-run.

Back live five minutes past the top of the hour, Cena bounced off the ropes, then took a dropkick from Riley. Miz stood up to applaud Riley as the announcers recapped the stipulations involved. Cena then made his standard comeback and Miz stood up to sell concern. Cena dropped the Shuffle on Riley and Cole warned Miz he could be looking at his fate at WrestleMania. "Oh, shut up, Cole," he retorted. Riley and Cena then battled on the top rope while hanging on the cage. Riley knocked Cena off the ropes, then tried to climb out as Miz encouraged him. Cena came to life, though, and pulled Riley back inside the cage to deliver a bulldog from the top rope. Cena then dropped Riley with the Attitude Adjustment center ring.

Cena picked up Miz's phone, which was still inside the cage, and took a picture of Riley KO'ed. The crowd didn't react much to the bit. Cena approached the cage door again, but Miz ran over to close the door again. Cena popped his knuckles, then did a "feat of strength" to pry open the door. Miz let go of the door at the last second, though, and Cena fell to the floor in victory. Miz then quickly capitalized with the Skullcrushing Finale on the floor.

To close the show, Miz took his WWE Title belt to the top of the ramp as Cena sold the effects. "Take that John Cena, take that Rock!" Cole shouted as the show ended eleven minutes past the top of the hour with Miz standing tall on this night.

WINNER: Cena at 12:46, Riley is "fired" from Miz's employ on next week's Raw. A bit gimmicky, too cute for their own good, and really heavy on the "social media aspect" of this Rock-Cena-Miz issue that will apparently be the central theme leading to WrestleMania. The match just didn't seem to click. (*1/2)

- Show had over 40 minutes of talking segments and about 23 minutes of in-ring action. The crowd in Buffalo really wasn't into this show, especially toward the end.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 02 2011, 02:09 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-28-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10017038.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Mike Bennett (w/Brutal Bob) defeated Adam Cole at 7:42. Bennett refused to shake hands and went to a headlock to start. Cole couldn't whip out, so he reversed it. Bennett reversed into a head scissor, and Cole popped out and hit two arm drags. Bennett slapped Cole and screamed, "I'm the prodigy!"

Cole chopped Bennett back in the corner and the ref made the break. Bennett rolled to the floor and talked with Brutal Bob. Cole jumped over the top rope and hit a flying head scissor on the floor. He rolled Bennett into the ring and grabbed his feet. Bennett kicked him back against the railing and then followed with a slam on the floor.

Bennett rolled Cole in the ring for a near fall and then stomped him in the corner. Bob screamed at Cole right up in his face. Bennett pulled him out and worked a rest hold on the back. Cole escaped and ran the ropes, but Bennett picked him up and tossed him into the turnbuckle. Bennett whipped Cole and popped him up. Cole reversed into a DDT.

Cole hit a kick to the face and a strike from the second rope for two. They worked a series of reversals at the ropes and Cole hit a flying cross body from the top for two. Cole hit a superkick to the back of the head, followed by a bridging German suplex for two. Bennett reversed a whip and hit a side effect type move for the win.

Shore's Slant: Well that's the best I've ever seen Bennett to date, but it wasn't very impressive. The ending came out of nowhere. One move, over. I like the idea of that, but I don't think they've build Bennett to the point where that looks believable. Still, I'm encouraged by Bennett's growth in this match.

2. Mike Elgin (w/Truth Martini) defeated Bobby Dempsey at 3:22. I don't know what the history is with Bobby Dempsey, but the crowd loves him. They shook hands and locked up. They pushed each other off and Elgin conferred with Truth.

They did the big guy shoulder tackle challenge until Elgin cheated with an elbow. Dempsey came back with a body block and then charged at Elgin in the corner. Elgin moved and then hit a Samoan drop on Dempsey for two.

Dempsey powered back and took his single strap down. He hit a sidewalk slam for two and then climbed the ropes. Elgin ran up and lifted Dempsey into a running powerbomb for the win. Post-match Corino put over Elgin. He said Elgin had what it took, but he didn't need Truth. He wished him luck in the next round.

Shore's Slant: Fun match really. I was surprised at the two big guys. They were very good. I'm much more impressed with Elgin than I am Bennett. Not sure that's the plan.

3. Andy "Right Leg" Ridge defeated Grizzy Redwood at 5:56. Grizzly took early control and hit a log roll on a running Ridge to send him to the floor. He ran for a dive, but Ridge hit a sick looking kick. Ridge followed with a few more kicks and worked a chin lock.

Grizzly made his feet and Ridge worked kicks in the corner. Grizzly traded spots and hit two chops. He ran the ropes and did a tilt a whirl lift into an abdominal stretch. Ridge rolled him up for two to escape. They traded blows in the center of the ring and Ridge hit a stiff kick to the face.

He called for a superkick, but Grizzly blocked it and dropped Ridge on the second rope. He botched a 619, botched jumping over the top rope and then may have botched the jump off the rope. Ridge superkicked him out of the air to put him out of his misery…

4. Christopher Daniels defeated Kenny King for the ROH Television Championship at 11:21. They put on a two and a half minute clinic on mat wrestling that included just about every reversal I have ever seen. Head locks, hammer locks and arm bars, oh my! It ended when they started trading chops in the corner and then fought out into the center of the ring. King hit a back elbow for one and went to work.

King hit a suplex and floated over into punches. Daniels reversed a whip to the corner. King tried to go up and over, but Daniels pushed him off and hit a neck breaker for two. King sold it as having his bell rung and Daniels attacked the neck. He hit a drop toe hold that dropped King on the second rope and followed with a rude awakening neck breaker for two.

Daniels hit a front suplex and floated over into a crossface. King spun around until his foot made the ropes. Daniels setup for another neck breaker, but King arm dragged out and hit a heel kick to take control.

King hit a spinebuster for two, and then a sommersault into a double knee for two. Daniels came back with the palnt and hopped up for the BME. King rolled out of the way and Daniels landed on his feet. King tried for a crucifix and then they rolled it all the way to the ground in reversals. Daniels made his feet and hit the Angel's wing's for the pinfall victory. They shook hands to end the show…

Shore's Slant: Very good match. No surprises here because we saw Daniels with the title Saturday and ROH works in real time, not TV time. That took away from it a little bit, but not horrible. Kenny King is a stud, and someone I think we'll see bought out soon.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 05 2011, 02:39 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 3-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_48224.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- R-TRUTH vs. WILLIAM REGAL

Things viewers learned from Scott Stanford early on: Regal hates humans, so has a pet collection and "Getting Jiggy With It" is still relevant in 2011. Regal slowed down the pace of the match trying to wear down Truth, who made a comeback at 4:00 before missing with a spinning Lie Detector. Regal tried to follow with a butterfly suplex, but Truth countered with the What's Up (formerly known as Paydirt) for the pin and the win. After a replay of the finish, Truth was shown dancing and celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: R-Truth at 4:24. Basic five-minute TV match spotlighting R-Truth.

2 -- SANTINO (w/Tamina) & KOZLOV vs. ZACK RYDER & PRIMO

Stanford noted Santino and Kozlov's quest to regain the Tag Titles from The Corre, then said Ryder & Primo have been "trying to get in each other's heads" to form a cohesive unit to challenge for the Tag Titles. Santino and Primo exchanged arm drags early on, then Santino teased the Cobra, prompting Primo to bail to the floor. Kozlov and Santino then cleared the heels to the outside leading to break.

Back from break, the heels were in control working over Kozlov while Stanford shared a story about Tamina and Santino from a conversation he claimed to have had with Tamina. Santino took a hot tag at 9:00 and landed offense on Ryder before the action broke down. Bodies started flying to the outside, then Santino avoided the Rough Ryder, warmed up the Cobra, and dropped Ryder for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 9:55. Basic, formula TV tag match designed to get over the characteristics of the wrestlers involved in the match. If you've seen one, you've seen them all, but it fit WWE's objective for anyone watching the show to be able to "pick up the book" and easily understand the stories.

3 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CURT HAWKINS

Striker noted that Undertaker will address Triple H on Friday's Smackdown episode. The announcers were focused on hyping WrestleMania while Hawkins tried to wear down Masters, who responded with a catapult into the top turnbuckle. Masters then mounted a comeback, shook off a clothesline attempt, and slapped on the Masterlock. Hawkins put up a mild fight, but eventually tapped out to give Masters the win. Post-match: Tyler Reks stormed the ring and blindsided Masters before dropping him with the Burning Hammer.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 3:21. Decisive victory for Masters setting up the next Superstars chapter in Masters-Reks. It at least gives the involved wrestlers something consistent to work with on TV.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 05 2011, 02:39 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_48210.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (ROBERT ROODE & JAMES STORM) vs. GUNNER & MURPHY -- TNA Tag Title match

Before the bell could sound, G&M attacked Roode to quickly take control of Storm in the ring. They quickly built to a hot-tag for Roode, who cleaned house on the heels from Immortal. Roode wanted a side effect on Gunner, but transitioned into a spinebuster for a nearfall. Gunner then accidentally smashed Murphy with a double sledgehammer, giving Beer Money an opening for a double suplex on Murphy. The tag champs then did their Beer...Money routine and set up Gunner for the DWI. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 3:07. Quick, decisive victory for Beer Money, which is what it should have been against inferior opposition. The in-ring action looked big-league in a slick-looking arena setting compared to the Impact Zone. (*)

2 -- VELVET SKY (w/Angelina Love) vs. SARITA (w/Rosita) -- Sky retires if she loses

One minute in, Angelina and Rosita brawled into the ring, so ref Earl Hebner booted them from ringside. One minute later, Velvet hit a DDT for the pin and the win to keep her career. Angelina then celebrated with Velvet.

WINNER: Velvet at 2:01.

3 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. ROB TERRY

Terry tried to get a headstart, but Steiner quickly cut him off and clotheslined Terry to the floor. On the floor, Terry took control by reversing a whip into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Terry executed a powerslam for a nearfall. Steiner came back with a trademark belly-to-belly suplex before warming up for a big clothesline. He connected, then warmed up an elbow drop for a nearfall before doing some push-ups. Steiner wanted a top-rope fallaway slam and connected. Steiner called for the end and applied the Steiner Recliner center-ring. Terry eventually tapped, giving Steiner a decisive win.

WINNER: Steiner via submission at 3:18. Two decisive victories for Fortune/They/Crimson's Crew over Immortal on tonight's show. (*)

4 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ

Morgan shoved a boot into Hernandez's throat, drawing ref Hebner's ire. Morgan followed with a big corner clothesline followed by a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Hernandez tried to leave, but Morgan gave chase and threw Hernandez back into the ring. Morgan then slowly re-entered the ring and Hernandez begged off. Morgan blasted him with a boot to the face anyways, then shook of an attempted t-shirt choke and grabbed the t-shirt. Morgan proceeded to t-shirt choke toss Hernandez clear across the ring. Morgan continued the assault with rapid-fire left and right elbow strikes before clotheslining Hernandez over the top rope to the floor.

On the floor, Hernandez begged off again, then Hernandez yanked Morgan by the tights face-first into the ring steps. Hernandez rammed Morgan face-first into the steps three more times and the ref called for a DQ. Hernandez confidently walked off as the camera focused on Morgan bleeding from the forehead.

WINNER: Morgan via DQ at 4:23. Morgan dominated most of the match before the DQ ending, so it looks like they're keeping the program going until Hernandez gets his comeuppance. (*1/4)

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion JEFF HARDY vs. STING -- TNA World Title match

Once Hardy entered the ring, the bell sounded and Sting quickly teased the Scorpion Deathlock. Hardy bailed out of the ring, though, and the ref started a ten count while Sting remained in the ring. Hardy slowly re-entered and kicked Sting in the gut before landing a forearm to the back. Sting quickly came back with a second Scorpion Deathlock attempt. This time, he applied it and Hardy teased tapping out before getting the bottom rope for a break.

On the floor, Hardy tried to hobble away, but Sting caught up to him and landed a suplex on the entrance ramp. Sting then dragged Hardy down the entrance ramp and rammed him face-first into the guardrail. Sting then went for a Stinger Splash near another section of the ringside area, but Hardy moved and Sting ate the rail.

Back in the ring, Hardy stomped away on Sting before applying a reverse chinlock. Hardy teased the Twist of Hate, but Sting shoved him away. Hardy then tried right hand blows, but Sting no-sold and did the big shout in Hardy's face. Sting followed with a faceplant, then the Scorpion Deathdrop. Sting made a cover, but Hardy kicked out. Sting then hung Hardy upside down in the corner and landed a super Scorpion Deathdrop. Sting wasn't done and he landed a third SDD, this time center-ring. Sting made a cover for the win and there's a new TNA champion.

Post-match: Sting took Hardy's TNA Title belt and held it up for the crowd as Tenay and Taz wondered how Hogan and Immortal will react to this. With as much TV time as Hogan and Bischoff got on this show, there was oddly no "backstage reaction shot" before, during, or after the match. They signed off ten minutes past the top of the hour with a wide shot of Sting celebrating with the title.

WINNER: Sting at 6:15 to capture the TNA Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 05 2011, 02:40 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_48248.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – EDGE vs. DREW MCINTYRE

The match began as soon as they came back from break. Booker T spoke his first words of the evening soon after the match started. McIntyre choked Edge in the ropes while working the arm in the first minute. McIntyre cinched in an arm-bar. The crowd aided Edge in getting to his feet, but as Edge hit the ropes, McIntyre met him with a big boot. “Edge is DOWN,” proclaimed Booker. That’s insight you can’t get anywhere else. McIntyre slammed Edge’s arm into the announce table, then predicted loudly that he’d end Edge’s career tonight. Back in the ring, McIntyre took Edge’s elbowpad off and dropped a few knees on the injured limb. Edge ran the ropes but McIntyre met him with an elbow to the face as soon as Edge hit the rope. It knocked Edge out of the ring, but McIntyre took his time trying to capitalize, allowing Edge to land a back body-drop at ringside. In the ring, Edge landed a cross-body for a two-count. Both men struggled to their feet at 4:40 of the match. A second big boot was blocked by Edge, and he hit the Spear out of nowhere. Edge, though, lifted McIntyre’s head up at the two-count. Cole was incensed at that. He brought the Educator out of the mothballs, applying that move for the submission victory.

WINNER: Edge, at 5:20. McIntyre looked good working over Edge for the body of the match, and Edge got to shine at the end, picking up a victory over someone who has had some upward mobility in recent weeks.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV & SANTINO MARELLA – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Marella showed the Cobra early on and Gabriel retreated to the safety of the ropes. Single-leg slam by Marella, then he took Gabriel over by the arm. Kozlov tagged in and tagged Gabriel with a knee-lift. Headbutts, followed by a throw. Gabriel went to ringside and the faces chased Slater off the apron as well. They went to break at 1:08 of the contest.

They returned 3:20 later. Kozlov plowed over Slater, but some double-teaming allowed the Corre duo to take over control. Kozlov eventually made the hot tag to Marella, who took the beating to Slater. Gabriel interrupted the pin and Kozlov dispatched of him, with Ezekiel Jackson and Wade Barrett helping to pull Gabriel out of harm’s way. Kozlov was knocked to the outside by Slater. Marella set up for the Cobra, but distractions by Jackson and Barrett allowed Slater to hit his finisher from behind on Marella and pick up the win.

WINNERS: Slater and Gabriel, at 7:29. Formula tag match. Hopefully we’ll see some new tag teams develop to challenge the Corre next.

3 – BETH PHOENIX & ROSA MENDES vs. LAYCOOL

They showed Mendes beating Layla by DQ last week. Michelle McCool and Phoenix began the match, with Beth going right for McCool’s injured foot. Rosa tagged in, as did Layla. Hair toss by Rosa, then McCool distracted her and Layla kicked Mendes in the mid-section. Rosa shoved Layla into McCool and the two argued, but McCool stayed on Rosa after a tag. Mendes again went for that injured foot, and made the hot tag to Beth. Layla tagged in as well, and ended up bumping around for Beth’s offense. Layla found herself on Beth’s shoulder, and was slammed down. McCool broke up the pin and as the ref ushered Rosa out of the ring, McCool booted Beth down with her reinforced boot and Layla got the pin.

WINNERS: LayCool, at 2:18. Beth has been terribly underutilized since her return from injury.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. KANE

After a lock-up, Kane fought out of the corner with right hands. Big Show went for a chokeslam, but the two ended up double clotheslining each other with neither clothesline looking like it would knock down a 180 pound guy let alone two men over 300 pounds. The Corre came to the ring as both men tried to get to their feet. Wade Barrett had a chair and slid it in to Kane, who used it on Show for the DQ.

WINNER: Show, by DQ, at 1:15.

After the match, Corre attacked Big Show. Kane didn’t join in however and flattened Gabriel with a hard chairshot to the back. Rough couple weeks for Gabriel as it pertains to him and chairs. Barrett dragged Gabriel out of the ring as Corre retreated up the ramp. After replays, Kane was shown in the ring, chair still in hand, as Corre looked on from the top of the stage.

5 – JACK SWAGGER vs. JTG

Match began right after the break, so no entrance for JTG. Cole was really pumped up on commentary, so much that he did his job standing up. Vader Bomb by Swagger. And another. I hope Cole’s guest ref is Daddy Swagger. Ankle-lock applied and JTG struggled for about ten seconds before finally tapping.

WINNER: Swgager, at 1:06. Good win for Swagger, even if it is to just put him over as Cole’s trainer.

The final segment was the Edge/ Del Rio contract signing. Both fought after signing it, Del Rio was about to finish Edge off when Christian came in for the save.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 09 2011, 10:10 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_48305.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results. *- My personal summaries

*- Nexus jumps Orton and drag him to the ring.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. DAVID OTUNGA -- Otunga's WrestleMania slot on the line

Otunga quickly blasted Orton to continue the assault. The announcers recapped the match stipulation that Otunga could be ringside for Orton vs. Punk at WrestleMania if he wins the match. Otunga scored with a scoop slam for a nearfall, then pointed to the WM27 banner hanging in the arena. Otunga nailed a dominator, then made a cover, but Orton kicked out. Otunga then slowly pulled Orton to his feet and Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO. Orton slowly made the cover for the win.

Post-match: Mason Ryan charged the ring and blasted Orton. Big Mase slowly picked up Orton for a power move, but Orton sprung out of nowhere with the RKO again. Orton came to his feet with his t-shirt ripped as Punk charged the ring, but stopped short when Orton threatened to give him some too. Punk, on the floor, and Orton, leaning against the top rope, stared at each other while time stood still. Orton then slowly turned his head as the camera focused on Otunga.

Punk tried to run around the ring to save Otunga, but Orton creamed him in the head with The Punt. Punk ranted and raved while Cole demanded something be done about Orton using The Punt. Punk then slowly backed away from ringside before Orton's music hit. Cole recapped neither McGillicutty nor Otunga going to WrestleMania as a replay aired of Orton smashing Otunga in the head with the Punt.

WINNER: Orton at 1:59. Basic booking with Orton going through the lesser "bosses" on the way to the "big boss" of C.M. Punk at WrestleMania. Right now, it looks like they're building to Nexus being written off at the hands of Orton.

2 -- CHRISTIAN vs. BRODUS CLAY

The two men locked up and Clay shoved Christian down to the mat as Mathews built up Clay. Christian teased the Killswitch early on, but Clay smashed him in the chest. Mathews plugged the new Kmart Live Event tour sponsorship as Christian made a comeback, only to have Clay run him down with a chest bump. Clay followed with consecutive elbow drops before applying a nerve hold. The crowd tried to rally behind Christian, who accepted a t-bone suplex. Clay wanted a splash, but Christian moved and went to the second rope for a missile dropkick that only rocked Clay. Christian went for a second one, this time from the top rope, and it floored Clay for a two count.

Christian called for the Killswitch, but Clay smashed him in the face. Clay then went for a running powerslam, but Christian slipped out, avoided a corner splash, and nailed a Tornado DDT for the three count.

Immediately after the match, Del Rio stormed the ring to whip Christian with his scarf. Del Rio pointed to the WM27 sign, then dropped Christian with the rolling cross arm-breaker. Christian tapped furiously as Del Rio kept the hold locked in. Del Rio eventually released the hold before Del Rio's music hit. Del Rio pointed to the WM27 sign as Cole noted Del Rio just sent a message to the World champion, Edge.

WINNER: Christian at 2:41. Fine spotlight for Clay in a good post-NXT role as Del Rio's bodyguard, a needed win for Christian, and acceptable advancement of the Del Rio-Edge feud leading to WrestleMania.

3 -- Divas champion EVE (w/Gail Kim) vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) -- Divas Title match

Back live: Gail Kim had joined Eve ringside for the Divas Title defense. The Bellas then came out together for the title challenge. Cole suddenly stood up on the announce desk and said he has a major announcement to make and he cannot wait. He will announce the special referee up next. He told them to end this match whenever they want. Eve and Nikki continued to wrestle while Cole ranted & raved that he's the "main event." The Bellas tried to pull the switcheroo, but the ref saw it, restored order, and Eve hit her neckbreaker finisher for the win. Post-match: Cole told them good riddance before announcing he will reveal his special referee at WrestleMania.

WINNER: Eve at 3:06 to retain the Divas Title. It was what it was with Cole playing up his heel character.

*- Cole presents the person he picked as the guest-referee as JBL. Before the contract is signed, Stone Cold comes out, stuns JBL, signs the contract making HIM the referee, pours beers on Cole and after he comes too, Austin gives JBL a beer and stuns him once more.

4 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Sheamus tried to take out his frustration on Bryan with an aggressive attack. Bryan then knocked Sheamus to the floor and Sheamus clutched his left ankle. The ref began a ten count as Sheamus came to his feet and started hobbling. It was a fast ten count as Sheamus continued to hobble around the ring selling the ankle. Mathews noted it was a quick count as Bryan celebrated with the U.S. Title in the ring.

Post-match: Bryan peered down at Sheamus, then started to leave the ring. Sheamus took the mic and acknowledged he's been on a losing streak for the past couple of months. He vowed to become new U.S. champion next week, though, and change his luck. Sheamus paused and said if he doesn't beat Bryan for the title next week...he'll quit. Sheamus hobbled around ringside as Bryan non-verbally accepted the challenge. Lawler said perhaps Sheamus isn't thinking clearly.

WINNER: Bryan via count-out at 1:09. Interesting development to put Bryan and Sheamus in a relevant position going into next week.

5 -- C.M. PUNK (w/Mason Ryan) vs. R-TRUTH

Lawler, recapping the Orton-Punk business tonight, slipped and called Orton the "Rattlesnake" rather than the "Viper." Punk dominated early on as Truth tried to rally the crowd. Truth wanted a top rope move, but he sold an injured hand. Punk tried the G2S, but Truth slipped out and nailed a leg whip for a nearfall. Punk came back with a side effect-like maneuver before applying a neck vice for a submission victory. Post-match: Punk directed Mason Ryan to deliver a running shoulderbreaker. Truth continued to sell an injured shoulder. "WrestleMania! WrestleMania!" Ryan shouted down at Truth. Punk then stood up and smirked toward the hard camera.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 2:33. The match was randomly thrown out there, but served its purpose re-establishing Punk as a threat to Orton at WrestleMania.

*- Vickie Guerrero comes out and announces that Ziggler has been hired by RAW.
 
6 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JOHN MORRISON

Lawler asked Vickie to explain her relationship with Ziggler after she threw Ziggler under the bus on Smackdown to get him fired. Vickie said it's strictly business at this point. "Just business, eh?" Lawler asked. Ziggler knocked Morrison to the floor and they cut to break 27 seconds into the match.

Back from break three minutes later, the match was over and Khali was doing the Kiss Cam. Okay, not so much. In actuality, Morrison had his eyes closed while flat on the mat as Ziggler worked him over with a side headlock. Vickie noted her "business associate" looks great tonight. She then cut a promo on Snooki and said she better keep her eyes off her man...that she's been involved in. Morrison made a comeback as Vickie pleaded with her business associate. Morrison executed a spinning neckbreaker, then made a cover for a two count when Ziggler put his foot on the bottom rope. Vickie continued to comment on Ziggler's looks before Ziggler caught Morrison with the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 5:28. Another short match with only a few minutes airing live. Odd to see Morrison lose clean here, but it's clear WWE is looking to emphasize Ziggler over Morrison heading to WrestleMania.

*- Vickie was informed if she wants to stay on RAW and keep her job, she has to beat Trish Stratus next week.

*- John Cena dissed Rock and then is laid out by The Miz to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 12 2011, 01:13 pm
WWE NXT Results: 3-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_48338.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and rookie-pro information.

The show opens with new graphics on the 'Tron: "NXT Redemption." Grisham says that this season is about "redemption" as well. William Regal is announcing with Grisham. Awesome. And Maryse is the co-host. She gives "air kisses" to Striker, who introduces the Rookies.

Striker and Maryse provide the new rules. The winner gets to go on to NXT 6, and Rookies can win "redemption points" not immunity points. Redemption points can be used to offset the voting from the WWE Universe.

- Chavo is the Pro to Darren Young. Chavo talked up Young after receiving a strong reaction.
- Vladimir Kozlov comes out in a suit to be Conor O'Brian's Pro. He says that O'Brian needs to be himself. Probably the longest promo of his career.
- Tyson Kidd is Lucky Cannon's pro. I think Lucky Cannon might be wearing lipstick. Regal notices it too. Orlando Jordan wants his gimmick back.
- Yoshi Tatsu is Byron Saxton's Pro and cuts his first promo since ECW.
- JTG is Jacob Novak's pro. JTG blames Novak's problems last season on the issues with Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guererro. 
- Hornswoggle is paired with Titus O'Neil. Hornswoggle does his mumble routine and imitates Titus's dog bark.

1 -- JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo)

Young and Novak lock up and eventually spill to the outside. They get back in the ring and Young takes over with a clothesline. Basic back and forth with William Regal doing a great job talking up the Rookies and the competition. More basic back and forth, big boot from Novak gets a two count and Novak moves to a headlock. Regal stands out, talking about "earning a spot" on the roster, which means a lot coming from a veteran like him. Novak and Young are both much more aggressive than we've seen in the past. Young is in control as Regal talks up his experience as a pro. Young pulls out a victory with a nondescript finisher.

WINNER: Young in 4:00. Boring match, I didn't even realize the end was coming.

2 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

Cannon plays the heel early on but O'Neil takes him to the corner. Cannon kicks him out of the ring and shows a mean streak as Kidd encourages him. Cannon's showing a lot of energy with a rear chinlock. Meanwhile, Regal drops a Finlay reference. Cannon puts his feet on the ropes while keeping O'Neil in a hold, and Hornswoggle kicks him off the ropes. Basic chain wrestling, but both O'Neil and Cannon make it look good.

O'Neil finally gets a break with a suplex, then lands a series of punches, and a furious shoulder tackle off the ropes. O'Neil catches boots to the face, then Kidd catches up to Hornswoggle, which distracts the ref. Cannon goes to the top rope, but Hornswoggle knocks him down. O'Neil catches Cannon with a jumping spinebuster for three. Innovative finisher. Post-match, Kidd tries to put Hornswoggle in the Sharpshooter, but O'Neal kicks him off. O'Neil and Hornswoggle stand tall in the ring.

WINNER: O'Neil in 4:00. I never thought I'd equate either of these two wrestlers with a good match, but I thought they put on a good match. I like O'Neil's finisher; it's better than the dozens of variations of neckbreakers and chokeslams from the rest of the roster. I thought Cannon did a good job playing a heel.

Winner of the obstacle course : Darren Young with three redemption points.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 12 2011, 01:14 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 3-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_48382.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. TYLER REKS

Aggressive start to the match and Masters teased the Masterlock, which Reks escaped by dipping to the floor. Reks kicked the ring steps in frustration, then returned to the ring as Striker plugged Triple H on Friday's Smackdown episode. Striker also threw out a plug for John Cena appearing on Smackdown as Masters clotheslined Reks to the outside. On the floor, Masters continued the assault as they cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was acting like a "wild dog," according to Korpela, taking it to Masters with more aggression. Korpela then tried to compare Masters vs. Reks to the Sox vs. Yankees and Lakers vs. Celtics. What? "Far be it for Jack Korpela to use hyperbole," Striker quickly said under his breath before calling a nearfall for Reks. Reks teased the Burning Hammer moments later, but Masters countered into a Masterlock attempt. Masters locked the hold in and it was good for a submission victory.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 10:51. Solid TV bout with a sense of urgency throughout the match and another endorsement for Masters, even if it's on the small scale of Superstars. (*1/2)

2 -- ZACK RYDER (w/Primo) vs. KOZLOV (w/Santino and Tamina)

Stanford noted Ryder wants to become a big deal in WWE, so he requested this singles match against Kozlov. Primo was still wearing his not-so-stylish sunglasses that make him look ten-years-old. Kozlov dominated early on, drawing laughs and smiles from a confident Santino. Primo then tried to get involved, prompting Santino to equalize him on the outside. The distraction gave Ryder an opening to hit the Rough Ryder for the pin and the surprising win. Post-match, Ryder and Primo confidently walked off as Kozlov took a knee in the ring selling that he was trying to figure out how he just lost to Ryder.

WINNER: Ryder at 2:58. Effective way to continue the tag division feud with Ryder scoring an upset victory. The match was fine for three minutes.

3 -- GREAT KHALI & MARK HENRY & NATALYA vs. WILLIAM REGAL & TYSON KIDD & MELINA -- six-person tag match

Stanford noted the oddity of Kidd and Natalya being opposite each other following their run in Hart Dynasty and long history together. The crowd started the match with a "Regal sucks" chant as the Divas matched up against each other. Kidd then tagged in and got in Natalya's face to tell her to get out of the ring. Natalya, indignant, tagged in Henry, who scared Kidd away. Enter Regal, who was abused by Henry and Khali for a bit, before Regal chopped down Khali at the knees. Kidd tagged in, then tried slapping Khali, who brushed him away. Kidd tried to tag out, but no one wanted anything to do with Khali. Kidd was left alone to accept a Khali Chop and the Punjabi Plunge for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Henry added insult to injury with a big splash to Kidd. Natalya then scooped up Kidd and slapped on the Sharpshooter. Kidd tapped out as Melina just watched on with wide eyes. Natalya waved Kidd good-bye, then the babyfaces left the ring. Regal decided to get some of Kidd and he slapped on the Regal Stretch while the faces danced ringside. Melina seemed embarrassed by Kidd and decided to slap him for good measure. The show signed off with the faces dancing on the entrance ramp.

WINNERS: Team Khali at 3:08. Ridiculously short six-person tag match ending with the curious picking-apart of Tyson Kidd, who extended his TV losing streak to eight matches. Odd end to an odd show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 12 2011, 01:16 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_48381.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D’ANGELO DINERO

Joe had control early but Pope managed to fight back within a minute of the start of the match. Pope his hair in shoulder-length dreadlocks now. At 2:00, Joe hit a big powerslam, leading to a two count and some Pope begging. But, he was playing possum as he ducked a Joe clothesline and took him down in the middle of the ring. While the ref was checking on Joe, Pope pulled the pad off of the turnbuckle. However, when he went to whip Joe into the corner, Joe reversed the move into a nice exploder suplex. At this point, the ref realized that the turnbuckle pad was off and went to put it back on. While he was doing so, Pope grabbed his chain and wrapped it surreptitiously around his fist. As Joe set him up for the muscle-buster, Pope hit a knockout blow on Joe and earned a dirty win as the ref didn’t see the cheap shot.

WINNER: Pope in 3:30. This feud is clearly not over. I’d really like to see these two wrestle a 10-15 minute match on PPV because both guys are top-notch performers. However, dragging it out another month smacks of the writing team not having an idea of what to do with these two in the near term.

2 – TNA KNOCKOUTS CHAMPION MADISON RAYNE vs. ROXXI -- Knockouts Title match

Roxxi started off hot, hitting a few splashes before Madison managed to sidestep a running kick. However, she played to the crowd instead of focusing on Roxxi, leading to a spinebuster for a Roxxi two count and a roll up for another two count. However, Madison hit her random finishing move that is difficult to see what she actually does (is it like a codebreaker with one leg or something?) for the win.

WINNER: Madison Rayne in 2:00.

3 – ANGELINA LOVE & VELVET SKY & WINTER vs. SARITA & COOKIE & ANGELINA (from Jersey Shore)

Velvet started off in the ring with Angelina. They stared each other down before the heels interfered to allow Angelina to tackle Velvet. Things quickly turned into a schmoz in the ring before Love & Sarita were dumped outside. Suddenly, Robbie E appeared and held Velvet’s arms behind her back. As Cookie & Jersey Shore Girl argued over who was going to hit Velvet, Winter stepped in and teased hitting Velvet before clearing the Jersey Shore Reject & the Jersey Shore Knockoff instead. Winter then went all vampire on Robbie, snacking on his wrist to send him running. Winter then stared down Angelina, who backed into a rollup from Velvet Sky for the pinfall win.

WINNERS: Angelina & Velvet & Winter in 2:00.

4 – A.J. STYLES vs. RIC FLAIR vs. MATT HARDY -- Street Fight

A.J. was slamming Hardy’s face into the top turnbuckle coming out of break. However, Flair distracted him at ringside, allowing Hardy to hit A.J. with a clothesline. Flair came in and tried for two elbow drops before catching Styles’s foot mid-kick. While Flair was laughing, A.J. kicked him in the head.

[Q6] This allowed Styles to put Flair into the Figure Four leglock. However, Hardy hit a flying legdrop off the second rope with the hold still on Flair to break up the submission. After a two count, Hardy tossed A.J. to ringside. A.J. brawled with both men, causing Flair to bleed. However, he lost his advantage when Hardy hit him from behind with a trash can. Flair hit some chops before rolling Styles into the ring.

Hardy climbed in after him with a big ladder and took Styles out with a running ladder clothesline. Hardy continued to beat on Styles and went for the Twist of Hate, but Styles reversed it and tossed Hardy into the ladder. A.J. then jumped all over a really bloody Flair and hit ten big punches on the top turnbuckle, getting a great reaction from the crowd (who counted along with glee) before a Flair Flop.

However, Hardy fought back with a Side Effect and a body slam. Moments later, A.J. managed to take Hardy down and then kicked Flair in the face as Naitch went to hit him with a Steel Chair. Styles then hit a Pele Kick on Hardy and set up for the Styles Clash on a steel chair. But Flair crawled over to hit A.J. with a low blow, which allowed Hardy to hit the Twist of Hate on the chair. Flair ‘picked the bones’ to get the cover for the victory.

WINNER: Flair in 6:00 (televised). Another good showing, though it would have been better to see the action that went on during the commercial break instead of an unnecessary promo exchange. Good storyline advancement to build towards Styles vs. Hardy at Victory Road with Flair looming over the proceedings.

5 – INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL) vs. GENERATION ME (MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK)

Good fast-paced action early as Storm did his best to put over Ink, Inc. as a credible threat. Considering they did a good job trying to put over friggin’ Gunner & Murphy two weeks ago, it must have been a lot easier to put over an established team like Ink, Inc. Crowd had a lot of “BEER! MONEY!” chants during the match. In the ring, Gen Me had a lot of quick tags to isolate Shannon Moore. However, Shannon tried to make the comeback out of a sleeper hold and got support from the crowd before Max Buck stopped him cold. Moore got a two count on a surprise roll-up, but Gen Me caught him again. Finally, Moore fought his way out to allow Neal to enter the ring on a hot tag. Neal eventually got a two count on a big cross-body off the ropes. But, a Jeremy Buck superkick stopped him cold. Gen Me put him on the top turnbuckle and went to go for a high-risk springboard move.

But, Jesse Neal came off of the top turnbuckle with a huge spear on a jumping Max Buck. Moore ran into the ring and threw him out to ringside and Ink, Inc. hit their double team Mooregasm finishing move to score the pinfall win and good momentum going into Victory Road.

WINNERS: Ink, Inc. in 4:00.

After the match, Shannon Moore got on the mic and told Beer Money that the Book of Dilligaf says that at Victory Road, Ink, Inc. would become Tag Team champions. Storm replied that at Victory Road, Beer Money would whip their asses. Sorry about your damn luck.

6 – TNA World Hvt. champion STING & ROB VAN DAM vs. JEFF HARDY & MR. ANDERSON

Anderson held his momentum early as the crowd started a ‘We want Sting!’ chant. RVD looked to have broken Anderson’s momentum going for a big monkey flip but posed for the “R! V! D!” chant on the top turnbuckle and Anderson blocked it into a self-inflicted powerbomb. Anderson then tagged Hardy in by smacking him in the back of his head.

Hardy came into the ring and was immediately jumped by RVD, who hit a big thrust kick and Rolling Thunder. Jeff fought out but Anderson dropped down to ringside to prevent Hardy from tagging out. Moments later, Hardy managed to tag Anderson in with another punch in retaliation. RVD tried to fight back against both men, knocking Anderson to ringside before walking into a Twist of Hate.

As Hardy went for the pin, Anderson jumped in the ring to stop the count at two, reminding the ref that Hardy wasn’t the legal man. This angered Jeff, who came after Anderson only to find himself laid out by a Mic Check from his own tag partner. But, right after that happened, the arena went dark and Sting’s music played.

When the lights came up, Sting was staring Anderson down nose to nose in the corner. Anderson tried to fight, but Sting hit him with the Scorpion Death Drop in the center of the ring. Suddenly, he pointed at RVD with both hands. RVD had a great facial expression with his eyes wide as he realized that Stinger was calling for the Five Star Frog Splash. Van Dam hit his finisher and won the match.

WINNERS: RVD & Sting in 5:00.

After the match, RVD got up and stared at Sting before nodding his head in acceptance. Sting moved back and pointed both of his hands at RVD again and Van Dam smiled, presumably showing that he now trusted Stinger because he vaulted up onto the turnbuckle to pose to the crowd with his back to the TNA Champion. The show went off the air with Sting and Van Dam standing tall in the middle of the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 12 2011, 01:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-11-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_48402.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – KANE vs. WADE BARRETT

Booker called Kane “a molotov cocktail ready to explode.” As Kane had things in control, the rest of Corre ran out for the DQ.

WINNER: Kane, via DQ, at :42. A short match like this makes sense in this context, given that Barrett probably told Corre to come out as soon as he gets in trouble so Kane doesn’t do any major harm to him.

Kane held off everyone, except for Zeke Jackson, who took Kane down. Big Show quickly came out to diffuse the situation, with a chair as his weapon of choice. Corre exited the ring as he entered it. They cut away to commercial faster than usual there.

2 – BIG SHOW & KANE vs. WADE BARRETT & HEATH SLATER

This match had been made and joined in progress out of break. I wonder if they had to edit something off of TV, which is why they went to break so awkwardly and came back in progress. Hard chop to the chest of Barrett by Show, after Slater tagged out. Barett countered a chokeslam and went after Show’s knee. Big boot put Show down, and he stomped on Show’s knee. Slater tagged in and kept Show on the mat. He was aggressive and stayed on Show in order to keep him from getting to his feet. Show picked Slater up, still in a reverse chin-lock, and dropped him. At 2:37, both men were down and looking for a tag. Show successfully brought in Kane, who hit Slater with a sidewalk slam. He took out Barrett, then booted Slater down. As he set up for the chokeslam, but the rest of Corre ran in. “I thought Teddy Long said these guys were banned!” said Booker. Did that happen during the announcement of the match during the break, a part that had to be edited out perhaps?

WINNERS: Show and Kane, via DQ, 3:16 shown. Fine continuation to presumably set something up for ‘Mania.

The attack didn’t last long, as Show fended them off with a steel chair. Then he nailed Kane with the chair, revenge for what Kane did to him last week.

3 – CODY RHODES vs. JTG

Rhodes went after JTG in his dress shirt, pants and dress shoes. He headbutted JTG several times in the corner. Cross Rhodes by Cody and the man who is “Dashing” no longer picked up the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at :51.

4 – LAYLA vs. KAITLYN

They are in Kaitlyn’s hometown, hence her appearance. She’s looking a little like Ashley Massaro, which can’t be a good sign. Kaitlyn dropped Layla on her tail-bone. Michelle McCool got on the apron and Kaitlyn pulled her hair a bit. She turned around into a kick from Layla, followed by her patented neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at :54. I wish they could find a non-wrestling role for Kaitlyn.

After the match, Layla set Kaitlyn up so that she was sitting in the corner, legs around the post, facing the turnbuckle. McCool ran at her and kneed her in the back. LayCool celebrated to end things.

5 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DREW MCINTYRE

As Rey came to the ring, the announcers discussed Cole’s big interview with Cena. McIntyre took Rey down right off the bat. He booted Rey in the face, then gave him a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Drew shouted that Rey wasn’t going to Wrestlemania. Cole volunteered to be Booker’s life coach. Drew was set up for the 619, but McIntyre avoided it. Rey slid outside and McIntyre greeted him with more abuse. In a sweet move, he gave Rey a sidewalk slam onto the apron. They went to break a little over 2:00 in.

Back at the 5:50 mark, with Rey in a bow-and-arrow submission. After Rey worked his way out of it, Mysterio was whipped hard into the buckle. Rey came off the top with a seated senton, but missed a cross-body. McIntyre wrapped Rey up in a pinning predicament, getting only a two-count. Booker spent most of the match putting McIntyre over. Mysterio came back with a 619, then splashed McIntyre off the top rope, picking up the victory.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 8:16. Good match…McIntyre doesn’t lose much by losing to Rey, who is pretty high on the totem pole, plus it was a competitive match.

6 – BRODUS CLAY & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRISTIAN & EDGE

E&C had separate entrances. Clay manhandled Christian at the start, but Christian went to the top rope to attempt a Tornado DDT, but Del Rio distracted him. Clay with an overhead suplex that sent Christian to ringside. Del Rio whipped Christian into the barricade while the ref was dealing with Edge. Edge chased Del Rio, who fled into the crowd. He came back over when Edge went back to the apron. Clay brought Christian back into the ring and dropped an elbow. Bodyslam by Clay, then a tag to Del Rio, who connected on a running kick to Christian’s arm/shoulder. Arm-bar by Del Rio as the crowd chanted for Christian. Christian continued to take the punishment from the heels. He pulled Christian’s elbow pad off, exposing his injured arm. Christian was able to recover and counter Del Rio, leaving both men on the mat. They both made tags at around the 4:00 mark. Big slam by Brodus for two. Edge tripped Clay up into the turnbuckle. He clotheslined Del Rio off the apron and lined up for the Spear. Instead, he ran into a Clay clothesline. He set Edge up in the corner, but missed a butt splash. Del Rio attacked Edge from behind, but Christian made the save. Del Rio got flipped to the floor, then Christian was Tornado DDT’d. Edge came off the top rope with an elbowdrop and made the pin.

WINNERS: Edge and Christian, at 5:48. Serviceable main event. Clay didn’t look too out of place.

After a replay of the finish, Del Rio looked on from the arena floor as Edge and Christian had their arms raised in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2011, 02:00 pm
TNA Victory Road PPV Results: 3-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_48441.shtml)

1 -- BULLY RAY vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- No DQ, Falls Count Anywhere match

As expected, the match moved to the floor early on. Dreamer used audience participation with a chair, bottle of water, and a giant stuffed yellow toy from one of those recent animated movies you've seen 1,057 commercials for and can remember the name of the movie. Taz had trouble determining what the object was. Dreamer took the fight into the crowd where Ray gained control of the match. Back ringside, Dreamer started chucking objects into the ring, including an inflatable doll. Didn't that ruin an X Division match about three years ago? Ray ended up in 69 position on the inflatable doll. Really tacky. Wasn't this a serious feud on TV?

Dreamer scored a nearfall following a DDT at 7:30, then dumped the doll to the outside and retrieved a table. Ray blocked a table spot, then smashed a trash can over Dreamer's head. Ray then took a mic and started yelling at Dreamer while smashing him with Kendo stick shots. He called out to Devon, telling him this is for him. Suddenly, Team 3D's music hit. Devon's sons came out on-stage, one wearing a neckbrace. Devon then snuck into the ring behind Ray, who took a 3D from Dreamer and Devon. Dreamer fell on top of Ray for the win. Devon, Dreamer, and Devon's sons took a curtain call standing over a fallen Ray to conclude the bit.

WINNER: Dreamer at 10:45. The match felt like the type of match a promotion that knows no one is watching their PPV would produce to get easy laughs and pops from an easy crowd. Overall, it felt like an extended version of a TV match. (n/a)

2 -- Knockouts tag champions ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER vs. SARITA & ROSITA -- Knockouts Tag Title match

Before the match, the heel challengers cut a promo vowing to take the Tag Titles. Out came Angelina and Winter, who was sporting a blindfold for some reason, and the tag champs were sans Velvet. The tag champs dominated the first three minutes with quick in-and-out tags working over Rosita. The match broke down at 4:00 with the tag title belts involved behind the ref's back. Velvet Sky then ran out attempting to help the champs, but she inadvertently helped the challengers, as they pinned Winter for the win. (Winter had to hold in pin position for a while until the ref turned around.) Afterward, more tension was teased between Velvet and Winter & Angelina, as Velvet tried to explain what happened. Winter & Angelina just left, ignoring her explanations.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita at 4:58 to capture the KO Tag Titles. Fine match to advance the TV program teasing more tension for a potential Beautiful People break-up.

3 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ -- First Blood match

Morgan came out second and quickly hit the ring to jump-start the grudge match by attacking Hernandez. Morgan landed a big elbow, then another, and a third. Morgan followed with a headbutt, then clotheslined Hernandez over the top rope to the floor. On the floor, Morgan ran Hernandez into the ring steps. No blood yet. Morgan then re-entered the ring and removed the top turnbuckle pad. Hernandez recovered on the floor, though, and tried to jab a sharp object into Morgan's forehead, but Morgan blocked. Hernandez then tried to rip out Morgan's eyeballs. Hernandez followed with a corner attack, then he played to the crowd rather than trying to draw blood.

Morgan, behind "Morgan, Morgan" chants, slowly climbed up Hernandez's leg and waited for Hernandez to bounce the ropes, where he delivered a discus clothesline. Morgan made a big comeback, including a fallaway slam. Morgan pointed to the floor, then went to the outside to retrieve the sharp stick introduced by Hernandez. Hernandez kicked it away, though, back-flipped to the top turnbuckle, and Morgan dropped him with a top-rope toss.

Suddenly, what appeared to be a fan charged the ring as Morgan was about to finish Hernandez. Meanwhile, Hernandez pulled out a chain. Morgan stole it, then popped Hernandez in the face. No referee. Hernandez then picked up what appeared to be a ketchup packet and squirted it across Morgan's chest. Still no ref. Morgan wanted to follow with the Carbon Footprint, but ref Jackson James suddenly stormed the ring and saw blood on Morgan's chest. He called for the bell, giving Hernandez the win. Hernandez, with blood on his forehead after a poor attempt to gig, walked off bragging about the win. Morgan argued with ref Jackson, then flipped him off and left the ring.

WINNER: Hernandez at 8:35. Decent undercard match before the awkward, latest over-booked finish that the crowd did not react to. Three for three on non-clean finishes so far. (*1/4)

Continued...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2011, 02:00 pm
4 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. MAX BUCK vs. JEREMY BUCK vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) -- Ultimate X match -- X Division Title match

The bell sounded and Cookie tried to get involved by grabbing Kaz's leg from the outside. Where's Traci to fight her off? On cue, Tenay referenced Traci, calling her "one of Kazarian's girlfriends." Max and Jeremy accidentally knocked each other down, then Robbie cleaned house as Cookie screamed encouragement. Well, "encouragement." Robbie took his sweet time approaching the cables to attempt to climb toward the belt, giving Kaz time to kick him down to the mat before dropping a leg from off the cable.

On the floor, Robbie ate a plancha from Kaz, then Max dropped Kaz with a baseball slide kick. Max and Jeremy were alone in the ring, then Max slingshot Jeremy over the top rope to splash Kaz and Robbie. Max was alone in the ring, but apparently still needed Jeremy's help to try to climb the cables. This gave Kaz an opening to re-enter the ring, where Kaz and Max battled. Max was apparently fine to climb the cables by himself moments later, as he nearly grabbed the belt, but Kaz cut him off. GenMe then nailed a tandem dropkick on Kaz. Max then climbed the cables and nearly reached the belt, but Kaz swung him off the big cable into a mid-air cutter.

Robbie re-entered the match, but Max cut him off. Cookie freaked out some more, then Kaz shoved Max off the top turnbuckle face-first into one of the trusses holding up the structure. That drew oohs and aahs. Jeremy, Kaz, and Robbie then set up a three-way Tower of Doom spot that floored all three.

After the dust cleared, Jeremy found himself up top, but Kaz dropped him with an enziguiri. Kaz followed with the Flux Capacitor, which was captured with a nice overhead camera shot. Everyone was down, then Kaz and Robbie started climbing from opposite sides of the cable. GenMe then yanked Robbie down and landed a double kick. Kaz found himself caught hanging from the cable and GenMe rocked him back & forth before dropping him to the mat. Jeremy tried to climb the cable, but Max told him it's about him winning the X Title. Max pulled Jeremy down, then they argued. Max thought they had an agreement, but Jeremy climbed the cable and they met at the middle.

The two brothers traded blows while hanging on the cable. Max eventually kicked Jeremy down, then Robbie used a ladder to knock Max down. Kaz then started tight-rope walking across the top of the cable. Robbie tried using a ladder to grab the belt, but Kaz kicked him with his foot, grabbed the title, climbed down the ladder, and fell to the mat with possession of the belt to win and retain.

WINNER: Kazarian at 14:22 to retain the X Division Title. Good story to the match with the brothers battling over the belt and Kaz taking advantage of their issues. They didn't over-do the big spots and focused more on telling a good story to differentiate the match from past Ultimate X matches. (***)
   
5 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL) -- TNA Tag Title match

It looked like Neal was sporting the USC Trojan headgear with a dark red Mohawk and the sides bleached blonde. Less than a minute into the match, Taz made the same reference. Tenay added that he's like Tommy Trojan. The two teams went back and forth throughout the first part of the match. Beer Money then double-teamed Neal and the action broke down with all four men in the ring. Moore took control with a glancing moonsault on Storm, then a bulldog on Roode. Neal started playing to the crowd looking for a response, then Ink, Inc. attempted a top-rope combo, but Roode knocked down the challengers. The ref let the action go with all four men loosely in the ring before Moore landed another moonsault on Roode.

At 10:00, Roode came back with a spinebuster on Moore for a nearfall. All four men remained in the ring as the action continued. Beer Money executed a double suplex on Moore, then did their Beer...Money routine. They wanted the DWI, but Neal tackled Storm. Moore hit a neckbreaker on Roode, but Roode kicked out and Moore pounded the mat in frustration. Moore wanted to use the Book of Dilligaf, but Neal waved him off. Moore insisted, giving Storm an opening to hit a superkick on Neal. Beer Money followed with the DWI on Moore for the pin and the win. Taz called it a very physical match.

After the match, Beer Money showed respect to the challengers. Neal accepted their respect, but Moore took a swig of Storm's beer and spewed it in Roode's face. Moore bailed from the ring and Neal begged him to be reasonable. Moore told Neal they need to toughen up to become tag champs.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 12:30. This one fell off the rails around the 9:30 mark with all four men in the ring with no order restored. If it's going to be a Texas Tornado style tag match, then make it Texas Tornado. It's my pet peeve about tag wrestling in this era, especially on the independents, and it was exemplified in this match. Otherwise, the match was fine. (*1/2)

6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. MATT HARDY (w/Ric Flair)

Styles started off in control with right hand strikes that sent Hardy reeling across the ring. Hardy followed with his trademark drop down, leap frog, dropkick that sent Hardy to the outside. Styles tried a flying move, but Flair grabbed his foot from the outside and chucked his jacket at Styles. The distraction gave Hardy an opening to take control. It was only momentary, as Styles cut off Hardy near the ropes and landed a moonsault on the floor. Flair distracted Styles again, giving Hardy an opening to ram Styles into the ringpost. Hardy tried to whip Styles into the guardrail, but Styles slid underneath the guardrail, then popped to his feet and landed a flying forearm smash that drew a reaction from Flair.

Back in the ring, Hardy dropped Styles on the back of his neck/head in the corner. Hebner checked on Styles, then Hardy threw Styles to the outside where Flair landed chops and strikes. Back in the ring, Styles tried running the ropes, but Styles fell down. Hardy then slingshot him across the middle rope. He followed with a unique submission hold wrapping his legs around Styles's back and wrenching Styles's neck forward while hanging in mid-air. Styles reached the bottom rope for a break to escape. Hardy then put Styles across the middle rope and Flair proceeded to grab Styles's crotch with a claw grab. Taz called it "five on two."

Hardy followed with a cravat hold wrenching Styles's neck with another submission hold. Styles escaped, though, and they started trading right hand bombs. Styles won the exchange with a clothesline, then a DVD into a backbreaker from the fireman's carry position for a two count. Styles tried to follow with a discus clothesline, but Hardy ducked and hit the side effect for a nearfall. Hardy, breathing heavily, teased the Twist of Hate, but Styles countered into a backslide for a two count. Styles then nailed the discus clothesline and both men collapsed to the mat.

At 15:00, Styles called for the Clash, but Hardy blocked with the Alabama Slam for a two count. Hardy then stalked Styles for a corner clothesline, but Stlyes blocked with a back elbow smash. Styles tried to follow with his trademark springboard back flip, but Flair had the ref distracted and he didn't see Styles's pin. Flair then poked Styles in the eye from the ring apron, but Styles came back with the Pele kick to Flair. Hardy took advantage with a spike DDT of sorts, then hit a top rope moonsault, but it was only good for a two count. Hardy sold that he was stunned.

At 17:00, Styles blocked the Twist of Hate, then caught Hardy on the top rope with a Pele kick out of nowhere. Styles went up top, posed, then hit the Spiral Tap. Styles made the pin and ref Hebner countered through Flair trying to grab his arm to give Styles the pin and the win. Refreshing to see a ref count through an outside interference attempt. Post-match, Flair stomped his feet in anger before Styles bounced from the ring. Styles then came back to ringside and punched Flair in the crotch before walking off with two victories for the price of one.

WINNER: Styles at 17:38. That was a pretty good to very good PPV singles match. Hardy has almost been forced to reinvent himself as a full-gutted, brawler-type, which suited him well in this match opposite the more athletic Styles. It was good to see Styles back in a singles spotlight where he can be of most benefit to TNA. (***1/4)

Concluded...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2011, 02:01 pm
7 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM -- #1 contender match to TNA Title

RVD was out first, then Anderson paused on the stage to do his customary pre-match mic work. In the ring, the two challengers stared off each against each other to sell the intensity of the match-up. Early on, Van Dam tried a leap frog spot, but he fell on Anderson's head and the two men fell to the mat. A few fans did a "You f'ed up chant," and Anderson shouted back that he meant to do that. On the floor, RVD set up Anderson for a trademark spin kick as Anderson was draped across the guardrail, but Anderson moved and RVD ate the guardrail. Anderson laughed in RVD's face, then took him back into the ring to wrap RVD's leg/knee around the ringpost.

Anderson resumed the attack in the ring with submission holds and strikes trying to work over RVD's knee and leg. Moments later, RVD grabbed a headlock and walked around the ring selling no effects of the leg work by Anderson. RVD then came to his feet again not selling the effects and Anderson dropped him with a clothesline. Next was a double knock-down clothesline that put both men on the mat at 10:00. They started trading bombs like in the Hardy-Styles match, then RVD did a back-flip and ate the ringpost. They proceeded to bump heads and both men fell to the mat.

In any event, RVD followed with a cross-body block near the ropes that took both men over the top rope to the floor. RVD got up, started walking up the ramp showing no effects of the leg work, and walked into a Mic Check from Anderson. Meanwhile, Jackson James was doing a ten count. Some kids were screaming at Anderson to get in the ring. James reached a ten count as Anderson dove just short of the ring apron. "Now what?" Taz asked. JB announced it's a double count-out. Taz said this is a number one contender's match. Tenay said he wants to see one of these two men advance. There was a subsequent chant of "Re-start the match" followed by a responsive "No." The ref stood between RVD and Anderson as they tried to recover to their feet. Meanwhile, Tenay and Taz were shown on-camera talking about them hopefully getting an answer on who's the #1 contender on Impact this week.

WINNER: Double count-out at 12:54. The finish was fitting considering how bad of a match this was for its place on the card. Not aesthetically-pleasing, clunky, and they seemed to get lost several times. RVD appears to just be going through the motions at this point and him completely no-selling Anderson's extensive leg work was pretty bad. (1/2*)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. JEFF HARDY -- TNA World Title match -- No DQ match

Hardy spent the first minute teasing which side of the crowd he would toss his t-shirt to. Seriously. In a TNA Title match. Sting then cornered him, Hardy kind of ducked, walked across the ring, and dropped the t-shirt in the ring. Moments later, Sting grabbed Hardy and dropped him with the Scorpion Death Drop. Sting made the cover for a three count. Afterward, Sting shot Hardy a look and Hardy sold that he was upset he lost the title. Sting took his belt and walked to the back. A fan shouted something at Sting and he shouted back, "I agree, I agree."

WINNER: Sting at 1:28 to retain the TNA Title. The word from backstage at the PPV is that Hardy was in no condition to perform. TNA needs to step up and start holding people accountable. They're playing with fire continuing to play games with the likes of Jeff Hardy, who obviously has health issues that need to be addressed. If they're not going to give him the help he needs, then cut ties with him rather than continuing to put him on TV. Someone in TNA management needs to step up and do something before something worse than a 90-second main event title match on PPV happens. (n/a)

Announcers: They went to Taz and Tenay, who narrated a full-length video package recapping all of the events from the PPV matches trying to stretch out the PPV. Taz encouraged people to watch Impact for fall-out from the Anderson-RVD match. Yes, watch the free TV show to figure out what viewers spent $35 on. Tenay and Taz signed off at 10:44 p.m. EST, one of the earliest PPV sign-offs in TNA history.

FINAL THOUGHTS: I'm not sure who had a worse night - the NCAA Selection Committee or TNA. What can you say? This was a promotion reinforcing a minor league, health-risk reputation. It's not even the quality of the matches in the final two slots, but trotting out Jeff Hardy in a PPV main event in no condition to perform.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 15 2011, 02:23 pm
WWE RAW Results: 3-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_48474.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion THE MIZ vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh) -- non-title match

Back from break, the bell sounded as Cole ranted & raved about this being unfair. Khali shoved Miz across the ring, then landed a chop to the chest, followed by a giant chop to the head. Khali followed with an attempted head-squeeze vice, but Miz grabbed the top rope for a break. Suddenly, Alex Riley stormed the ring and tried to attack Khali, causing a DQ. The announcers noted Riley was fired.

WINNER: Khali via DQ at 1:10. Miz looked bad during the match, but returned to the same level he entered with the post-match bashing. It was only impressive because of Khali's size since Khali hasn't done anything credible in WWE in a few years. (n/a)

2 -- U.S. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/Gail Kim) vs. SHEAMUS -- U.S. Title match -- Sheamus will "quit" if he loses

Mathews wondered if there's a KOTR curse. Cole said past winners have struggled. He failed to cite evidence supporting his claim as Bryan knocked Sheamus to the floor, then flew through the ropes with a big suicide dive. Bryan pounded the mat to sell his fire before rolling Sheamus back into the ring. Bryan came off the top with a double-foot dropkick and scored a nearfall. Sheamus then rolled to the outside to contemplate what was going wrong as they cut to break.

Back from break, Sheamus was in control trying to keep his career alive. Sheamus pounded on Bryan with clubbing strikes to the chest, then again. Sheamus followed with a running knee below the chin, then scored a nearfall. Bryan suddenly scored a nearfall, then dumped Sheamus to the floor. Sheamus started selling the ankle from last week as the announcers wondered if Sheamus's career was in trouble. Sheamus made his way into the ring, then ref Armstrong held Bryan back to chck on Sheamus. Sheamus tried to nail the Brogue Kick, but Bryan ducked and slapped on the LeBell Lock. Sheamus managed to make it to the bottom rope just in time, though.

Sheamus, apparently playing opossum on the ankle (which the announcers missed), wanted the High Cross, but Bryan rolled through into a sunset flip for a close two count. Bryan and Sheamus then started trading bombs, then Bryan nailed multiple strikes via forearm and kick. Bryan then set up Sheamus to deliver rapid-fire kicks to the chest, then one to the head. Cole said he could be out cold and Bryan made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out. Bryan then went up top for a big high-risk move, but Sheamus countered with a sick mid-air Brogue Kick that floored Bryan. Sheamus then draped an arm over Bryan's chest for the pin and the win. Sheamus is the U.S. champion.

WINNER: Sheamus at 8:59 to capture the U.S. Title. Heck of a physical match with something on the line, the audience buying into the high-stakes match, and Bryan once again delivering great action in a long-form TV match. WWE just raised the profile of the Bryan vs. Sheamus feud, likely setting up the re-match at WrestleMania. Not long enough to be three-stars, but right there. (**3/4)

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. MASON RYAN (w/C.M. Punk)

Orton blasted Ryan with early right hand blows before Ryan responded with a kick to the gut. Orton with a clothesline, then Ryan with a boot to the face. Aggressive start. Ryan followed with a backbreaker across his knee for a two count. Ryan then applied a bear hug as the crowd chanted, "Let's Go Randy." Orton escaped, then hit a big clothesline, but Ryan came back with a side effect/uranage for a two count. Ryan did the classic big-man grunt look before staring at the WrestleMania sign. He wanted his finisher, but Orton spun him around and nailed the RKO out of nowhere for the pin. On the stage, Punk slapped his hands in disgust with it now officially one-on-one between Orton and Punk with no Nexus involvement.

WINNER: Orton at 3:01. Fine to finish the Orton vs. Nexus series with a hot hometown crowd for Orton. (*)

4 -- TRISH STRATUS vs. VICKIE GUERRERO -- Vickie hired to Raw if she wins

Vickie did some jumping jacks to warm herself up, then Trish nearly ended the match with a small package that resulted in a two count. With Vickie in trouble, Dolph Ziggler ran out to stand between Trish and Vickie. Morrison stormed out behind Ziggler and cleared him to the outside before nailing a big corkscrew splash over the top rope. Big pop for Morrison. Lay-Cool then stormed the ring and attacked Trish. Apparently it's No DQ. In any event, Lay-Cool decked Trish and helped Vickie pin Trish to win her job.

WINNER: Vickie at 2:30.

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Brodus Clay)

At five minutes into the over-run, the match started with a basic collar & elbow tie-up. Mathews plugged the Kmart-sponsored live event tour, which didn't match up with the tone of a main event match. Cole suddenly said he has it on good authority that The Rock is here tonight in St. Louis. Cena knocked Del Rio to the floor and they cut to break.

Back from break, Del Rio stalked Cena and landed a dropkick for a two count. Mathews quizzed Cole on his Rock claim, and Cole simply said Mathews will see. Cena powered out of a headlock with a back-drop and Brodus tried to pound the mat to encourage Del Rio. Both men slowly made their way to the feet selling like they were at the 13-minute mark rather than six minutes in. A double knock down led to another slow climb-to-their-feet. Cena and Del Rio traded bombs center-ring and Cena built some momentum leading to the shoulder tackles, sit-out slam, and Five Knuckle Shuffle. Del Rio then came to his feet and spun into the Attitude Adjustment, but Clay stormed the ring and attacked Cena for a DQ.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 7:21. Basic stuff here. Del Rio's in-ring work isn't main event-level yet to match his charisma and personality. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 16 2011, 02:39 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 3-14-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/ROHTVReports/article10017318.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. The Bravado Brothers defeated Grizzly Redwood and Bobby Dempsey at 4:20. Harlem and Dempsey started. Dempsey hit a headbut on Harlem and tagged in Grizzly. Harlem punched Grizzly and he and Lance worked quickly in and out. They hit a combo neckbreaker and continued to toss the little guy around.

Grizzly finally made the hot tag and Dempsey worked a house of fire on both Bravados. He slammed both guys around and picked up Harlem. Harlem grabbed the ref and slid off Bobby's shoulders. Lance hit a crossbody that Bobby caught, but he fell over Harlem for the pinfall victory…

Shore's Slant: Fun opening match. I really like the Bravados and think they have a big future. Plus, I hear they might be coming South in the near future, so that would be awesome.

2. Davey Richards defeated Tony Kozina in a Pancration rules match at 4:13. Jim Cornette and Kyle O'Reilly worked on commentary for this match. The rules are basically no closed fists to the head and the match ends by submission or knockout. It's a little more than that, but that's the gist. Kozina is a training partner with Richards.

Richards hit a roundhouse to drop Kozina at the start. Kozina made the count and they worked like an MMA match. They got closer and traded palm strikes to the head and Kozina hit a Saito suplex. Davey made the count and they wrestled down to the flor. Davey hit a knee to the face and mounted Kozina, hitting strikes. The ref stopped for a TKO finish.

Shore's Slant: Interesting concept. It would take some time for fans to get used to, but it could be something interesting long term. O'Reilly was very good on commentary with Cornette.

3. Tomasso Ciampa (w/The Embassy) defeated Mike Sydal at 2:22. Ciampa hit a dropkick before the bell to start the match. He slammed Sydal into the turnbuckle and tossed him to the floor. Princess Mia ran over and beat the hell out of Sydal and then a Superkick in high heels. Wow. Sydal climbed back in the ring and hit a few kicks, but Ciampa hit a huge powerbomb for the win…

Shore's Slant: Ciampa looked pretty good, nothing terribly impressive except he's pretty agile for a big guy. I'm interested to see how he develops.

4. "The Prodigy" Mike Bennett (w/Brutal Bob) defeated Kyle O'Reilly to win the Top Prospect Tournament at 10:04. O'Reilly and Bennett mat wrestled to start with O'Reilly getting the best with a reverse armbreaker. Bennett made the rope and hit a dropkick. He went to the apron and drove O'Reilly into the turnbuckle. He tried for a clothesline, but Kyle kicked him to the floor. Kyle whipped Bennett to the railing and then hit a dropkick from the apron.

Kyle turned his attention to Bob and Bennett attacked from behind. They battled to the ramp and Bennett hit a DDT on the steel. The ref started the count and Kyle took 19 seconds to finally get back in. Bennett stomped a mud hole in the corner and worked the back.

Kyle flipped out of the rest hold and attacked Bennett with strikes and kicks. Bennett ducked one kick, but O'Reilly kicked him in the back of the head for two. Bennett came back with a spinebuster for a near fall. O'Reilly basically no sold it and came back with a kick to the head, followed by a missile drop kick for two.

O'Reilly jumped on Bennett's back and botched spinning around and fell. He managed to lock in the triangle choke, but Bennett flipped over for a pin attempt. O'Reilly kicked out and locked in a front guillotine choke. Bennett sold it for a while and the ref checked. On the third arm drop, Bennett stood up and hit a sidewalk slam for the win.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 17 2011, 09:02 am
WWE NXT Results: 3-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_48506.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and redemption challenges.

The cast of Season Five of WWE NXT (Pros):

-- Darren Young (Chavo Guerrero)
-- Jacob Novak (JTG)
-- Byron Saxton (Yoshi Tatsu)
-- Conor O'Brian (Kozlov)
-- Lucky Cannon (Tyson Kidd)
-- Titus O'Neil (Hornswoggle)

1 -- CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero)

Conor aggressively rammed Young shoulder-first into the ringpost early in the match. Young recovered on the floor before Conor rolled him back into the ring for a nearfall. Conor continued to work over Young's left shoulder before Young came back with an atomic drop. Regal noted the Rookie Mistakes from both men as they traded offense. Young then busted out a fallaway gutbuster ala Roderick Strong and scored the pin on Conor for the win. On the stage, Hornswoggle and the Pros jotted down notes on their clipboards as Regal noted the strong finishing move for Young. Young then mimicked everyone else on the roster pointing to the WrestleMania banner hanging in the arena.

WINNER: Young at 2:59. Conor just isn't very convincing in the ring, while Young is essentially the ringer of NXT having already worked with top stars on the roster.

2 -- LUCKY CANNON & TYSON KIDD vs. YOSHI TATSU & BYRON SAXTON

Lucky and Kidd were already in the ring, which wasn't a good sign. The babyface duo came out as Grisham noted Yoshi was wrestling with a heavy heart considering the situation in Japan. Regal said you have to set that aside and take care of business when you come to work. Yoshi quickly knocked down Kidd, played to the crowd, and kicked Kidd in the gut. Lucky then took a cheap shot at Yoshi, giving the heels the advantage on Yoshi. The crowd chanted for Yoshi and rallied behind him, leading to Yoshi scoring with a knock-down clothesline.

Saxton then hot-tagged into the match and cleaned house on Kidd. Saxton lost control, then Cannon tagged himself into the match. Kidd, stunned, watched as Cannon entered the ring and scored with sort of a front slam on Saxton. Apparently that's his finisher, as it was good for the pin. Post-match: Kidd expressed frustration with Cannon for trying to take over. Kidd told Cannon to get on the same page with him and Cannon acted apologetic.

WINNERS: Kidd & Cannon at 4:08. Completely forgettable tag match, but fine for NXT

Titus O'Neil won the Talk the Talk and St. Patrick's Day Keg Carry challenges for 2 points each.

Updated Redemption Standings:

Titus O'Neil - 4
Darren Young - 3
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2011, 01:13 pm
WWE RAW Results: 3-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_48812.shtml) In-ring results posted with a quick glance at the WM hypes (*) since there was a whole lotta talking in this one, getting everyone geared up for WM.

* CM Punk and Randy Orton started the yak-fest in the opening segment.

1 -- World Hvt. champion EDGE & CHRISTIAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & BRODUS CLAY

Edge is putting his 15-match TV & PPV winning streak on the line here. Edge and Clay started things off against each other. Edge and Christian exchanged tags back and forth trying to wear down the big man. E&C then dumped Clay over the top rope and executed more double-team offense on the floor. Mathews fed to a break with the faces in control.

Back from break, Del Rio had Christian in a nerve hold trying to wear him down on the mat. Del Rio and Clay tagged in and out working over Christian. Meanwhile, Mathews was practicing for his call of WrestleMania as Cole & Lawler filled time arguing with each other leading to their WrestleMania match. Christian then caught Del Rio with a Tornado DDT and crawled across the desert to make the hot tag to Edge. Clay also tagged in.

Edge dropped Clay with a sit-out slam, then got that crazy look in his eyes wanting the Spear. The crowd popped, but Del Rio yanked Edge down from the floor. Christian and Del Rio battled on the floor, then Edge and Del Rio reset in the ring. Edge ducked a clothesline and nailed the Spear on Clay for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Edge's music played, so he didn't see Del Rio trying to snap Christian's arm with the cross arm-breaker ringside. Edge then ran to the outside to run off Del Rio, who disappeared to the back. Edge started to walk back to Christian, but Del Rio attacked him from behind. Del Rio then slapped on the cross arm-breaker and Edge tapped out furiously. Cole noted if Edge taps out on Sunday, Del Rio will be new World champion.

WINNERS: Christian & Edge at 8:16. Fine tag match giving Smackdown's top title match a spotlight leading to Mania and putting Edge in jeopardy of losing the title. (*1/2)

2 -- SANTINO (w/Tamina, Kozlov, Big Show, and Kane) vs. WWE tag champion JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/The Corre)

Interesting match-up. Gabriel scored an early nearfall, then Santino fired back with right hand strikes. Santino delivered the sailor's salute fist drop, then taunted the Corre with the Cobra. Action outside the ring dominated the proceedings before Santino dropped Gabriel with the super-over Cobra strike for the pin.

Afterward, Show did Santino's customary post-match trumpet salute. Kane stared him down, questioning Show. Show sheepishly kept doing the trumpet, then Kane paused and decided to do the trumpet with a big smirk on his face. Yes, that happened. Everyone had a good laugh, then Kane back-flipped out of the ring.

WINNER: Santino at 1:52. Quick match to save some for WrestleMania, although Corre wasn't made to look impressive here. And Kane's character has officially jumped the shark, although it seems like that's been said about eight times before. (n/a)

* Undertaker came to the ring, interrupted by Triple H, then both interrupted by Shawn Michaels. Intense get-toether with the three that shows everyone how to sell WrestleMania.

3 -- JERRY LAWLER vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Michael Cole)

Lawler took a swipe at Cole, who avoided it, then Swagger took it to Lawler. Swagger threw Lawler over the ringside barrier before celebrating a bit prematurely. Lawler retrieved a chair while he was ringside and cracked it over Swagger's back to earn a DQ. Lawler landed another chair shot, then taunted Cole with it. Mathews told Lawler he can't do it. Instead, Lawler smashed the Cole Mine with the chair before trying to climb over the box to get at Cole. Cole's "security" held off Lawler, then Cole threw a beverage over the wall toward Lawler. Cole stood up and told him he's a loser. Loud "Jerry, Jerry" chant as Lawler slowly wiped the beverage off his face. "Wait 'til Sunday," Cole said. "I'm going to embarrass you!"

WINNER: Swagger via DQ at 1:16. More strong build-up for one of the key matches at Mania where Lawler will finally be able to get his hands on Cole. (n/a)

4 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. DANIEL BRYAN & JOHN MORRISON

Sheamus cut off Morrison's early momentum and they cut to break 40 seconds into the match.

Back from break, Morrison was wildly selling as Bryan desperately called for a tag. Sheamus resumed an attack focusing on Morrison's back and the crowd tried a slow clap to warm up Morrison. The announcers plugged the six-person tag at WrestleMania before Morrison finally made the hot tag to Bryan. As soon as Bryan hot-tagged, WWE decided it was a good time to start plugging the WWE Live Event tour sponsored by Kmart. Bryan had Ziggler locked in the LeBell Lock, but Sheamus broke it up. The action broke down into a four-man brawl. Bodies flew everywhere, then Bryan teased the LeBell Lock on Sheamus, who avoided it. Sheamus then wanted the "Pale Justice" Outsider's Edge-like maneuver and he connected. Sheamus with the pin on Bryan for the win.

WINNERS: Sheamus & Ziggler at 6:15. Decent dose of athleticism, but not too much given away ahead of Mania. (*1/4)

* Last 20 minutes of the show was Cena, Miz and the Rock. Show ended 19 minutes past.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2011, 01:14 pm
WWE NXT Results: 3-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_48859.shtml) Alas, there was only one match on the show and the redemption contest is a 2 man race between O'Neil (9 pts) and Young (7 pts).

1 -- CONOR O'BRIAN & TITUS O'NEIL & BYRON SAXTON vs. LUCKY CANNON & DARREN YOUNG & JACOB NOVAK

As the Rookies traded basic holds, the sharply-dressed Pros were shown on-stage evaluating the Rookies. After trying to remember the Russian's name, Regal noted Kozlov stood out for not being sharply dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. The announcers discussed Titus having the physique, but needing to connect with the audience or he won't last long in WWE. With Saxton isolated, Titus pretended to be upset with the ref for not catching the default heel trio's pretend heelish tactics.

Titus eventually took a tag to no reaction and cleaned house with power offense. Naturally, the action broke down moments later, then Titus finished off Novak with his sit-out slam finisher for the pin and the win. Hornswoggle was quite excited on-stage. After a replay of Titus finishing of Novak, they cut back to Titus, Saxton, and O'Brian standing tall in the ring. Grisham signed off and said they would see everyone in Atlanta for WrestleMania 27.

WINNERS: Team Titus at 6:30. Your basic, ordinary FCW quality match with everyone trying to play a role. But, since the matches are of no consequence on NXT, no one will remember this.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2011, 01:16 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 3-31-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_48917.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CURT HAWKINS vs. TRENT BARRETA

Back-and-forth action to start the match. Hawkins tried to wear down Trent and take away his high-flying offensive attack, then Trent caught Hawkins with an enziguiri that sent Hawkins flying through the ropes to the floor. Trent followed with a high-impact flip dive that caught the announcers off guard in the middle of their WrestleMania conversation. Back in the ring, Trent scored a two count, then Hawkins resumed control of the match. And the announcers resumed their WrestleMania conversation. Out of nowhere, Trent caught Hawkins in the corner for a Tornado DDT, which Korpela called the Dudebuster DDT. Sounds like something off the Dairy Queen menu. Barreta with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Barreta at 5:21. Basic five-minute Superstars match. A professional, serviceable match that didn't get in the way of the announcers having a conversation about WrestleMania. (*1/4)

2 -- Divas champion EVE & NATALYA & GAIL KIM vs. BELLA TWINS & MELINA

As the match kicked off, the announcers plugged the sole Divas-related match at Mania featuring Team Snooki vs. Team Lay-Cool. Mathews asked Stanford if he'll be GTL'ing. Stanford self-deprecated that he doesn't go to the gym (strike one with McMahon), doesn't tan, and he doesn't do laundry (strike two with everyone). The heels isolated Gail Kim in this one. Eve eventually hot-tagged into the match and the action broke down. The Bellas did the Switcheroo during the melee while Melina and Natalya scrapped on the outside. Back in the ring, the fresher Bella dropped Eve with an X-Pac facebuster for the pin and the win. The heels stood tall to close this week's Superstars.

WINNERS: Team Bellas at 6:23. Interesting result. As for the match, it continued the women's division feuds from Raw and kept the Bellas on the chase for Eve's Divas Title, which could come into play post-Mania. (*1/4)

Next week...the series finale of WWE Superstars!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2011, 01:17 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 3-31-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_48920.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 - SCOTT STEINER (w/Crimson) vs. SHANNON MOORE (w/Jesse Neal)

Starting off, Moore used the ref as a shield before rolling outside. Neal told him to get in the ring before Crimson tossed him in. That led to some dominant offense from Steiner that was deliberate and powerful, culminating in a belly-to-belly suplex for a two count. Apparently, Orlando Jordan is wearing a peacock hat, and E.Y. and he have shirts that say “We love Tag Teaming.”

Back to actual wrestling, Moore turned the momentum by squirming out of a carry and kicking Steiner in the back of the knee. Moore kept him down with some swift kicks before mocking him with Steiner’s own signature pushups. After a dropkick, Moore them put Steiner’s chain mail on before missing a top rope moonsault, despite Neal’s wishes to the contrary. At 3:30, Steiner hit an overhead belly to belly suplex before downing Moore with the Steiner Liner. After doing his push-up routine to cheers, Steiner dragged Moore over to the top turnbuckle and set him on top. The crowd got on their feet as he signaled for the Frankensteiner and hit it for the victory.

WINNER: Steiner in 4:30. I don’t care how old Steiner is, that top rope Frankensteiner is still an awesome move. I enjoyed the pace of this match as both men got some offense in before the bigger Steiner used his power moves to claim the win. I just would have preferred their solid promos right before the match started instead of with a commercial interlude and a Bully Ray promo.

2 – MAX BUCK vs. JEREMY BUCK

Right off the bat, Max told Jeremy to lay down so he could get the win, but Jeremy said no. What followed was nice, fast, back-and-forth X Division-style wrestling that got a big ovation from the crowd. Jeremy followed this up with two quick arm drags followed by a top rope running corkscrew arm drag that was pretty impressive. Max rolled out of the ring in frustration before younger brother Jeremy sat on the second rope to let him into the ring. Jeremy extended his hand, but Max turned the handshake into a headlock.

There was more fast-paced action back-and-forth that had the crowd making lots of noise. This culminated with yet another innovative arm drag from Jeremy, this time using a springboard off of the second rope. The sequence culminated at 3:00 with Max sitting down in the corner, looking at his little brother in shock.

Max tried to charge him but Jeremy hit a quick huracanrana for a very close nearfall before Jeremy was expelled to ringside after Max hip-tossed him through the ropes. Mimicking Jeremy’s behavior from earlier, Max sat on the rope and offered his brother the chance to climb back into the ring but instead kicked his brother in the head before powerbombing him into the turnbuckle. Max finished off his little brother by flipping off the top rope into a Diamond Cutter for the victory.

WINNER: Max in 4:00. A pleasing X Division-style match, the kind that TNA used to feature with great regularity not so long ago. While I’m not a fan of the dissension between one of the promotion’s promising young tag teams, if they have a brotherly spat that results in the X Division getting some time every week then it might be worth the trade-off. This was a fun and action-packed four minutes.

3 – VELVET SKY vs. WINTER

The bell rang immediately back from break. Velvet charged Winter and rammed her into the corner. She was pulled off by Earl Hebner, but she went right back after Winter and cornered her again. This was quickly followed by a snap slam and a dropkick to Winter’s face. In full control, Velvet charged Winter in a corner for the third time, only to see Winter move and slam her hard to the mat.

Winter was now in full control and tossed Velvet across the ring by her hair before hitting a backbreaker for a two count. Winter’s rapidly making people forget about Daffney when it comes to being ‘Zombie Hot.’ Anyways, Velvet managed to reverse things and a bulldog on Winter at 3:00. As Velvet was standing Winter up, Angelina began slowly walking down the ramp with a completely blank look on her face. This allowed Winter to assault Velvet from behind and hit a spinning backbreaker that allowed Winter to lock in some sort of naked choke that forced Velvet Sky to tap out.

WINNER: Winter via submission in 4:00.

After the match, Winter locked on her submission move again and made her stare down Angelina before walking up the ramp and motioning for Angelina to follow, which she did wordlessly.

4 – KURT ANGLE vs. ROB TERRY

Well, we’re about to see if Angle is truly good enough to be able to get a decent match out of anyone. No way this lasts too long as Kurt wasn't wearing ring gear. Terry hit some overhand smashes on Angle to start off the match before Terry hit his trademark slow motion shoulder block that looks like it wouldn’t hurt a kitten. Somehow, Angle fought back and tried to hit a crossbody off of the top rope. Unfortunately, Terry caught him and scored a huge powerslam.

Taz immediately pounced on everyone’s surprise that Terry actually hit a big move, saying that Angle could be in danger. Ah, the curse of Taz: when he says you’re in position to win a match, it means you’re about to go down. Naturally, when Terry picked up Angle for another power move, Kurt fought his way out of it and locked on the Ankle Lock and it was academic from there as Jarrett hilariously leaned over the bottom rope in a vain attempt to distract the referee.

WINNER: Angle in 1:30.

5 - TNA World champion STING & MR. ANDERSON & RVD vs. MATT HARDY & BULLY RAY & ABYSS (w/Ric Flair) -- steel cage match

Sting came in and started cleaning house, leading to him hitting Stinger Splashes on Ray & Hardy before hitting a Stinger Splash on Abyss, who was standing on the Apron between the ropes and the cage. Cool spot. Sting climbed up on the second turnbuckle to hit the 10-count of punches on Hardy, but found himself being hit with an atomic drop. Sting no-sold the move (I guess he was wearing a cup) before clotheslining Hardy down hard. Right afterward, Anderson was shown standing with his hands on his knees outside of the cage, clearly taking his sweet time to get into the match.

Back inside, Bully Ray stomped a mudhole into Sting before Abyss came over to stomp him further. While RVD was left dumped on the ring apron, Mr. Anderson pulled up a chair and sat down outside to watch.

Back from break, RVD & Sting were down and Taz promptly informed the audience that Anderson hasn’t moved from his chair at ringside. In the cage, RVD was hit with a knee to the groin and a leg drop from Hardy while Abyss choked Sting. Suddenly, Hogan’s music hit and Hulk came out with his back brace on.

After Anderson mocked him, Hogan told him to get his butt in the cage. Anderson told him no. Hulk told him again and Anderson acted like he was going to punch Hulk, who begged off. However, it became pretty clear that the back brace was a ruse since he raked Anderson’s eyes and tossed him hard into the side of the cage. With Anderson reeling, Hulk threw him through the open cage door and seven minutes into the match all six men were finally inside.

Sting and Anderson didn’t even pretend that they were on the same team as Immortal stood back and let the pair of them fight. After Sting threw Anderson hard into the side of the cage, Immortal went right back to work destroying the three men in the Main Event at Lockdown. It was dominance to the point where Immortal was going around the ring and attacking each man three on one. Finally, Hardy went for a pinfall and Abyss & Bully Ray retreated into their corner for a proper tag match.

With only RVD in his corner (Anderson was still down on the ring apron), Sting desperately tried to make a tag but Hardy stopped him and tagged in Abyss. After Sting was beaten with big fists from Abyss, Ray was tagged in and the two big men went for a double team clothesline. But at 10:00, Sting ducked and they ran into each other instead. Stinger took them both down and finally made a hot tag to Rob Van Dam. RVD came in on fire, taking down each Immortal member twice, including a brutal spin kick on Bully Ray. However, Abyss stopped his momentum briefly before RVD hit a big single leg thrust off of the top rope to put him down hard. Van Dam vaulted up on the far turnbuckle to go for the Five Star Frog Splash, but, suddenly, Mr. Anderson jumped up from the ring apron below (where he had been laying most of the match since he came into the cage) and hit RVD with Bully Ray’s chain.

This allowed Ray (the legal man for Immortal) to hit the Bubba Bomb on Van Dam and earn the pinfall victory for his team as Anderson kicked the door open to leave the cage.

WINNERS: Ray & Abyss & Hardy in 12:00 (8:00 televised).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2011, 01:19 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_48953.shtml) Condensed here to the two in-ring results only. Everything else on the show was RAW reruns and hype toward WrestleMania 27.

1 – WADE BARRETT vs. KOFI KINGSTON – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

This was a match taped in Chicago. During Barrett’s intro, Josh Mathews, Booker T, and Michael Cole were shown on camera, with Cole in his glass case of emotion. I guess they wanted to get Kingston’s rematch out of the way prior to ‘Mania. Kofi tried an early Trouble in Paradise, but he missed an ended up on the apron. Barrett kicked him down to ringside. He rammed Kingston back-first into the side of the ring. He continued the beat-down at ringside. Front slam, lateral press, two-count only. Kingston fired back with a kick and some chops. High dropkick found the mark, but Barrett dodged the SOS. Flip kick in the corner, though the timing was off a bit. High cross-body off the top for two. Booker was all over Kingston here, saying his stock had dropped the past few weeks, and the chided him for wasting time. Kofi went for Trouble in Paradise, but a nice boot to the face by Barrett changed those plans. Barrett slapped the mat and told Kofi to “come on!” Wasteland attempt, but Kofi held onto the ropes. Trouble in Paradise hit, but as he went for the cover, the rest of Corre ran out and attacked Kingston for the DQ.

WINNER: Kingston, via DQ, at 3:57. Well, Kofi looked a little better here, but Barrett could’ve used a decisive winning going into ‘Mania.

As Corre continued their onslaught, Santino Marella and Vladimir Kozlov ran out. They weren’t able to put a dent into Corre’s offense, so Kane’s pyro went off, and he and Big Show ran out. They cleaned house, standing tall again before the eight-man tag at Wrestlemania.

2 – CODY RHODES vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Rhodes went right after Masters, but Masters came back with a chop. Rhodes went to the knee as Cole and his two security men came back from the back. “What, did he have to go take a bathroom break?” asked Booker. Booker actually asked him that when he got back on headset, and Cole fired back that only Booker does that at PPVs. Rhodes continued on offense, stomping on Maters’ face. Samoan drop by Masters, but he missed a clothesline. Masterlock attempt, but Rhodes got to the ropes. He headbutted Masters, which I don’t believe the ref saw, then hit the Cross Rhodes for the pin.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:11.

Post-match, Rey Mysterio ran out. He kicked at the legs of Rhodes and set up for the 619, but stopped Rey. He tried to powerbomb Rey, but Rey got him in 619 position. He showed off the knee brace he was wearing, but Rhodes got out of the ring before Rey could deliver the move. I’m not sure that post-match stuff was necessary to hype their WM match. They could’ve just had Rhodes win, and that would be that.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 06 2011, 01:07 am
WWE RAW Results: 4-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49042.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JERRY LAWLER vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Michael Cole)

They locked up and Swagger took control before Lawler retaliated in the corner. Swagger sold frustration and charged Lawler for a big shoulder tackle, then another. Swagger then missed with a corner splash across the ring and the two men backed away from each other. They circled the ring as the crowd chanted, "Jerry, Jerry." Swagger showed off his strength with a standing powerslam, but missed with a sort of seated butt splash. Lawler bounced off the ropes to follow up, but Swagger smashed him with a clothesline. Swagger then put the boots to Lawler before missing with a running Vader Bomb. Lawler capitalized with left hand jabs, then a dropkick that decked Swagger. Lawler looked to the crowd, then went to the second rope and dropped the strap. However, Cole hopped on the ring apron. Lawler gave chase and pounded on Cole before Swagger grabbed Lawler from behind and slapped on the anklelock. Lawler fought the hold for a moment before tapping out. Post-match: Swagger kept the hold locked in as Lawler kept tapping. The ref reprimanded Swagger, but left the ring to note to Justin Roberts he was reversing the decision. Ross asked for a sense of urgency to check on Lawler. Roberts announced the reverse decision and Cole complained to Roberts.

WINNER: Lawler via reverse decision at 3:51.

2 -- RANDY ORTON & REY MYSTERIO vs. CODY RHODES & C.M. PUNK

Orton took the early advantage on Cody, then tagged in Rey. Cody landed a bit of offense, but Rey cut him off and tried ripping off Cody's protective mask. Cody then rolled to the floor to catch a breather as they cut to break.

Back live, Legacy Exploded with Orton slamming Rhodes before dropping a trademark knee to the skull. Orton then tagged in Rey, who dropped a springboard leg on Rhodes for a two count. Booker said Punk was doing a heck of a job working the apron during the match, then right on cue, Punk tagged into the match. Punk tagged right back out as the heels worked over Rey, who suddenly rolled up Cody and scored a two count. Orton then tagged in and Cody landed forearm smashes before Orton exploded on Cody with a clothesline for a two count. Orton took his eyes of Cody momentarily to focus on Punk, giving Cody an opening to chopblock Orton at the bad knee.

Punk tagged in and teased the G2S, but Orton slipped out and teased the RKO, only to have Punk shove him off. Punk then smashed Orton's knee from behind again. Punk went back to work on Orton's knee with repeated kicks and smashes. They cut to another break.

Three seconds of a 20-second Smackdown plug aired leading back to break where Cody and Punk were in the ring. Orton went to his corner looking for a tag, kicked Punk away, and made the tag to Rey, who delivered a springboard moonsault. Rey then missed with a kick strike and Punk threw him into the corner. Cody cheap-shooted Rey from the apron, then Orton ran around to the other side to smash Cody on the ring apron. Rey then set up Punk for the 619, but Cody intercepted him in mid-air with a step-up kick. That was a great counter. It was only good for a nearfall, though.

At 13:30, Cody followed up on Rey as they replayed Cody's great counter with the step-up kick. Cody then rammed Rey sternum-first into the corner turnbuckle as Orton reached out looking for a tag. However, the heels isolated Rey in their corner continuing to wear down Rey. Cole and Booker bickered on commentary before Rey turned it around on Punk. Orton took the ultimate hot tag moments later as Rhodes also tagged in.

Orton cleaned house on Cody as Booker noted Orton was blocking out the pain. Orton set up Cody for the big spike DDT from the second rope and connected. Orton then crouched down to enter his happy place before shooting a glare toward Punk, who dropped off the ring apron. Orton then grappled Cody from behind and executed the Angle Slam. Punk broke up a pin, then Rey cleared Punk to the outside. Orton followed with an uppercut that put Cody on the second rope and Rey fluidly nailed the 619 that spun Cody back to center-ring. Orton followed right up with the RKO and that was it for Cody.

WINNERS: Orton & Cody at 16:31. Nice long-form tag match giving everyone quality TV time and giving the babyfaces some shine with Rey getting a measure on comeuppance on Cody after his loss at WrestleMania. It looks like Orton vs. Punk will continue after Mania, though, as there wasn't much resolved. (**1/2)

3 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Brodus Clay) vs. EVAN BOURNE

Bourne scored with early offense before Del Rio cut him off with a boot to the gut. Del Rio checked his mouth, as he appeared to have a cut lip. Del Rio then smashed Bourne to the outside and rammed him into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Del Rio slapped on a neck vice that Bourne escaped. Bourne then landed a knee strike for a two count. Bourne suddenly found himself up top looking for Air Bourne, but Del Rio smashed him with a step-up enziguiri. Del Rio followed right up with the cross arm-breaker and Bourne tapped, giving Del Rio the win. Afterward, they zoomed in tight on Del Rio's cut lip to sell aggression written on Del Rio's face.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 2:40. Fine match re-establishing Del Rio's quest for the World Title, although it shows where WWE sees Bourne on the pecking order. (*)

4 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER & VICKIE GUERRERO vs. JOHN MORRISON & TRISH STRATUS

Ziggler and Morrison started things off against each other. Ziggler had enough of Morrison, so he tagged out to Vickie. Trish slowly entered and Vickie teased a cartwheel before comically falling on her head. Vickie then piefaced Trish, who exploded on her with chops. "Aaaaaahhhhh!" Vickie shrieked. The heels cut off Trish and Vickie worked her over in-between shrieks. The men eventually tagged in and Cole tried act serious putting over the feud and the two wrestlers. Ziggler went for a pin, but Trish broke up the pin and slapped Ziggler. Morrison then followed right up with the Flying Chuck. Cole complained about the mixed tag rules as Morrison set up and connected with Starship Pain. Booker said he didn't think Morrison got all of it, but it was good for a pin. Ringside, Vickie screamed and threw a fit while Morrison and Trish celebrated.

WINNERS: Morrison & Trish at 3:24. Uninspired effort that captured the entire theme of WWE's product right now. The commentary is just awful, WWE isn't getting any new stars over, and it feels like Morrison and Ziggler are stuck in mid-card purgatory. Positioning them in the dead Q7 quarter-hour captured it all. This show was missing a sense of urgency at the very beginning coming right off WrestleMania and it's felt like any other show throughout.

5 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- U.S. Title match

Mathews and Booker took turns knocking Bryan trying to play him up like an underdog while not doing a very good job of it. The state of announcing is at an all-time low in WWE. Cole talked himself up as Sheamus worked over Bryan in the ring. Sheamus then scored with the Irish Curse backbreaker for a nearfall and sold frustration. Sheamus tried to work over Bryan with mat holds, then Bryan landed a kick strike, ducked a clothesline, and nailed a clothesline of his own. Bryan sold the back, then exploded on Sheamus with a flying kick strike for a nearfall. Cole was mid-Rock-Cena plug when Bryan teased the LeBell Lock, but Sheamus fought it off and nailed a backbreaker. Sheamus followed with the Brogue Kick and made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 3:52 to retain the U.S. Title. The announcers did their best to knock Bryan, the match was designed to reinforce Sheamus, and Bryan has transferred whatever momentum he had to Sheamus. Back to square one for Bryan, joining about ten other younger wrestlers on the roster who can say the same thing. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 06 2011, 01:08 am
WWE Tough Enough: 4-4-11

Here are the notes from the show courtesy of Caldwell over at PWTorch.com (direct link to complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_49041.shtml)

Host- "Stone Cold" Steve Austin

Trainers
Booker T
Trish Stratus
Bill DeMott

Cast List (age)
Men
-- Matt Capiccioni (30)
-- Andy Leavine (23)
-- Jeremiah Riggs (28)
-- Martin Casaus (26)
-- Ryan Howe (23)
-- A.J. Kirsch (27)
-- Luke Robinson (26)
-- Eric Watts (25)
-- Michael Zakki (26)
Women
-- "Miss USA" Rima Fakih (25)
-- Christina Crawford (22)
-- Michelle Deighton (25)
-- Ivelisse Velez (22)
-- Ariane Andrew (23)

Ariane was the first eliminated.

Video preview: In the coming weeks, contestants will face brutal physical challenges in and out of the ring. They will overcome pain, stare down fear, and make it count to become the next WWE star.

The Rock was shown making a surprise visit. John Cena, Rey Mysterio, Big Show were shown making their visits. Only one will win the ultimate prize.

Next Monday: dogs chase down the contestants. John Cena guest stars next week.

INITIAL THOUGHTS: Austin absolutely owned this episode. Perfect pick to host this show. DeMott was a great supporting authority figure and Booker & Trish added a good amount behind DeMott. There are some potential stars in the Tough Enough mix. It will be interesting to see which stories progress as the show progresses. Very strong start to the season. Well done.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 06 2011, 03:06 pm
WWE NXT Results: 4-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49089.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

The cast of Season Five of WWE NXT (Pros):

-- Darren Young (Chavo Guerrero)
-- Jacob Novak (JTG)
-- Byron Saxton (Yoshi Tatsu)
-- Conor O'Brian (Kozlov)
-- Lucky Cannon (Tyson Kidd)
-- Titus O'Neil (Hornswoggle)

Redemption Points:
O'Neil - 9
Young - 7
Saxton - 4

1 -- CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov) vs. JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG)

Kozlov was in a suit with his shoulder in a sling to sell Corre's attack at Axxess on Saturday. Grisham said Novak changed from white trunks to gold trunks because Saxton said it looked like he was wearing diapers. Grisham said with conviction now it looks like Novak peed his diapers. Grisham added some meaningless trivia that Conor has two dogs. "I don't like dogs," Regal said in his low, ominous voice. Novak hung Conor upside down in the corner and Conor sold like he was folded up like an accordion. On-stage, Hornswoggle was perplexed by the predicament. Grisham noted Conor was shaken, but not stirred. "Where do you come up with this stuff?" Regal dryly asked. Conor then ducked a clothesline and rolled up Novak in the corner to score the win with a small package. Kozlov had a big laugh and congratulated Conor on the win with his one good arm.

WINNER: Conor at 4:11. Forgettable, basic match. One of these two will likely be the first to go.

2 -- CHAVO GUERRERO & DARREN YOUNG vs. TITUS O'NEIL & HORNSWOGGLE

The announcers wondered if Titus should even tag in Hornswoggle here. They noted Titus's undefeated streak on NXT so far. Grisham and Regal then re-visited that awful period of TV on Raw when Chavo and Hornswoggle feuded and seemingly had a match every week. Horny then tagged himself in and told Chavo he wants Young. Chavo obliged and told Young not to hurt him. Young dropped down to both knees to wrestle Horny at his level, so Horny kicked him in the mid-section. Chavo then took a kick to the shin while standing on the apron.

Horny got in enough offense and tagged in Titus instead of pressing his luck. There was some confusion on the legal man leading to Horny biting Chavo on the foot. Horny then went home under the ring. Chavo gave chase. Meanwhile, Titus smashed Young with his sit-out slam finisher for the pin and the win. Chavo was dumbfounded by this. Horny and Titus then celebrated the victory for their kids.

WINNERS: Hornswoggle & Titus at 4:29. Comedy match for the kids complete with flashbacks to that Chavo-Hornswoggle feud.

3 -- TED DIBIASE vs. YOSHI TATSU

Yoshi showed early fire, including grabbing DiBiase by the cheek and slapping him across the face. Regal continued to stress that he feels DiBiase needs to get rid of Maryse. DiBiase then took control of the match and pounded on Yoshi with right hand blows. The ref reprimanded DiBiase, who did not adhere to a five count and was DQ'ed.

Post-match: Maryse yelled at DiBiase in French, then DiBiase jumped out of the ring and yanked the mic away from Maryse. DiBiase said he's had enough of Maryse on NXT. He gave her an ultimatum of NXT or him. Maryse looked straight ahead, not selling for the decision. DiBiase walked off and Maryse walked off with a frown. "What will The Decision be in seven days?" Grisham rhetorically asked to close the show.

WINNER: Yoshi via DQ at 1:57. As NXT Turns continues on next week...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 07 2011, 12:49 pm
Ring of Honor's final episode on HDNet: 4-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_49079.shtml) There was only one final match while the rest of the show as a 'Best of...' material.

1 -- DAVEY RICHARDS & THE BRISCOES vs. RODERICK STRONG (w/Truth Martini) & KINGS OF WRESTLING (CHRIS HERO & CLAUDIO CASTAGNOLI w/Sara Del Rey and Shane Hagadorn)

Nice back and forth to start with setting a deliberate, layered pace to the match. The babyface trio of the Briscoes & Davey got some early shine taking turns getting in offense before the heel trio got some offense in to antagonize the crowd. The action broke down a bit at 10:00 and the babyfaces executed a double suplex into top rope headbutt by Davey on Claudio for a two count. Claudio was in jeopardy of tapping out to a follow-up submission by Davey, but the heels broke it up.

A great sequence followed where Davey went for a handspring elbow strike, but Claudio caught Davey on his shoulders in mid-air to deliver a spinning UFO for a two count. Davey was isolated by the heels for the next few minutes, then Davey found himself on the floor taking abuse from the wrestling and non-wrestling heels. Once order was restored, Claudio tried to score a quick pin on Davey, but Davey escaped just in time.

Davey eventually escaped Strong with a handspring enziguiri and tagged out to the Briscoes, prompting a mini-tag battle between the Briscoes and KOW center-ring. The action broke down after the mini-battle and Del Rey found herself in the ring where she accidentally took a boot to the face from Claudio. The Briscoes then took out the KOW on the floor with a big double dive that popped the crowd.

Back in the ring, Richards and Davey traded control before Hagadorn inserted himself into the match. Martini tried to run interference from behind, but Davey ducked and Hagadorn ate the Book of Truth. After the confusion, Richards applied the anklelock on Strong. The crowd pounded the barricade looking for a tap-out, Richards grapevined the ankle, and Strong was forced to tap out, giving Richards and the Briscoes the win.

Post-match: the Briscoes and Davey celebrated the HDNet-conclusive victory as Truth cried ringside about the state of his book. The heels then left up the entrance ramp selling frustration and anger after taking the loss. The Briscoes did a victory lap, followed by Davey. Hogewood signed off as the babyfaces stood tall on the entrance ramp to conclude ROH's run on HDNet.

WINNERS: Team Davey & Briscoes at 26:15. Excellent, well-layered six-man tag match methodically building to a crescendo that delivered a payoff for ROH viewers who have followed the product on HDNet. Just a very good finish to ROH's run on HDNet. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2011, 03:59 am
WWE Superstars Results: 4-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_49145.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. DREW MCINTYRE

The announcers noted McIntyre is upset he didn't receive the title shot against Edge at WrestleMania, especially after Del Rio didn't get the job done. Back to Hunter-Taker, Striker said everything was right about the match, including the voices calling the match. McIntyre dominated JTG early on, but walked into a back body drop that gave JTG an opening. JTG scored successive nearfalls, including a close two count following a DDT, but McIntyre blocked the Mug Shot with a big boot to the face. McIntyre got that look in his eyes and grappled JTG to deliver the Future Shock DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: McIntyre at 4:38. Although it's Superstars, good to see focus on McIntyre, who looked strong coming out of the Elimination Chamber PPV, but was given nothing to work with on the way to WrestleMania.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Nice start to this one with some athletic back-and-forth while Stanford ribbed Mathews about taking a Stunner from Stone Cold at WrestleMania. Kidd then tried a move off the ropes, but Yoshi dropkicked him over the top rope to the floor. Stanford with an early "house of fire" reference as Yoshi stood his ground in the ring in control of the action.

Back from break, Yoshi scored with a crucifix pin for a two count, but Kidd quickly cut off Yoshi with a clothesline and went to work on his opponent again. Stanford tried to get Mathews to "go there" cutting a promo on Michael Cole, but Mathews opted to ignore Cole's "performance" at Mania. A mid-ring double knock down put both men on the mat. Yoshi was the first up and delivered knife-edge chops followed by a kick strike. Next was a running knee to the face for a two count.

Yoshi opted to take it to the top rope for his next offensive attack, but he took too long and Kidd crotched him on the top turnbuckle. Kidd followed with a Frankensteiner and quickly made a cover for a two count. Kidd teased the Sharpshooter next, but Yoshi kicked him away to avoid. Kidd then went for a springboard dive, but Yoshi ducked, then smashed Kidd with a roundhouse kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Yoshi at 9:55. That was a heck of a TV singles match to close off WWE's WGN run. (**1/2)

3 -- SANTINO MARELLA vs. TED DIBIASE

No Maryse with DiBiase here. The match was taped prior to Tuesday's NXT developments, rending Stanford's commentary dated wondering about the relationship status between DiBiase and Maryse. Santino and DiBiase traded mat holds, then they came to a standstill. Santino offered a handshake, but DiBiase brushed him off. This made Santino quite upset. Meanwhile, Stanford complained about getting shorted $20 at Axxess. Santino and DiBiase came to another standstill, then DiBiase offered a handshake. Santino, so excited, took the bait and walked into a punch to the face. DiBiase gloated as Santino rolled to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, DiBiase was working over Santino in the ring with a reverse chinlock. Santino made his way to his feet and pumped his feet to build momentum for a chinbreaker on DiBiase, who absorbed the blow and dropped Santino again for a two count. Eight minutes in, Stanford noted Tamina was absent from Santino's side. He wanted the dirt, which drew Mathews's ire. DiBiase then scored another nearfall as the announcers noted this is when DiBiase has struggled recently trying to maintain his focus finishing off an opponent.

DiBiase kept on Santino, but Santino continued to escape pin attempts. DiBiase then pounded Santino to a seated position to the corner, drawing the ref's ire. DiBiase went for a flying corner attack, but Santino comically just fell on his face to sell the effects and avoided the move in the process. Santino then got the adrenaline rush to make a comeback, but DiBiase cut him off with a boot to the gut. DiBiase found an opening to grapple Santino for Dream Street, but Santino countered with an overhead toss. Santino then warmed up The Cobra and jabbed DiBiase in the throat for the pin and the win. Santino finishes off WWE's WGN run with a win.

Post-match: Mathews noted DiBiase was in control for the most part, but Santino just needs a few seconds. As Santino did the trumpet celebration, Stanford signed off for Superstars without so much as a word about this being the final episode on WGN.

WINNER: Santino at 10:50. Strong main event trying to get over DiBiase's aggressive streak, while Santino showed a more serious side to his in-ring abilities. To WWE's credit, they are trying to establish The Cobra as more than just a comedy finisher, but as a legitimate move. Santino taking a more serious tone to his matches helps in that area. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2011, 04:00 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_49154.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – HERNANDEZ & ANARCHIA (w/Rosita & Sarita) vs. TOMMY DREAMER & DEVON

Hernandez was shouldered out of the ring early by Devon before he locked up with Anarchia. After a drop toe hold, Dreamer dropped an elbow before hitting a bodyslam. Another quick tag and Devon set up for the ‘WASSUP?’ spot and nailed it on Anarchia. As they celebrated, Hernandez came into the ring and attacked them from behind. The giant Mexican flag is still hanging.

Devon hit Hernandez with a Thesz press before Anarchia slung Dreamer into the ring post. With Devon in control in the ring, Rosita tried to interfere, which led to Devon planting a giant kiss on her. However, as the ref ushered her out of the ring, Anarchia hit Devon in the back with a steel chair as he bounced off the ropes and Hernandez got the pinfall victory.

WINNERS: Hernandez & Anarchia in 2:00.

Post-match, Hernandez sent the two women to ringside to pull the ring mats up at ringside. Hernandez then set up to hit a Razor’s Edge on Dreamer over the top rope onto the open concrete but Matt Morgan ran down to prevent him from doing so. Hernandez & Morgan had a stare down before Anarchia tried to attack the Blueprint from behind. However, Morgan fought him off and hit a chokeslam as Hernandez ran off quickly.

2 --- SAMOA JOE vs. MURPHY

Murphy started off with the advantage as Joe was trying to go after Pope. However, Joe absolutely leveled him with a clothesline before dragging him quickly into the rear naked choke and before Pope could get in more than a few sentences at the announce table, this match was over via submission.

WINNER: Joe via submission in 0:30.

Samoa Joe ran right up the ramp and went after the Pope, who ran away.

3 -- Knockouts tag champions SARITA & ROSITA vs. THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE -- KO Tag Title match

As Velvet was trying to help Angelina into the ring, she was attacked from behind by Sarita. However, the advantage didn’t last long as Velvet hit a drop kick before hitting and inverted atomic drop followed by a bulldog on Rosita. With Velvet controlling the action, Taz & Tenay announced that Bully Ray vs. Daniels would be a lumberjack match. TNA loves to announce stipulations during Knockouts matches.

Meanwhile, Velvet was trying to tag Angelina in, but she didn’t respond. Winter suddenly appeared on stage and gave her a hand signal, which led to Love hitting a big guillotine on Velvet, which she followed up with a beating in the ring before walking off back in her blank state. Sarita picked up the scraps and got the cheap pin for the win.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita in 1:30

4 -- GENERATION ME & ROBBIE E (w/COOKIE) vs. CHRIS SABIN &
BRIAN KENDRICK & SUICIDE

Sabin and Robbie started things off as the announcers mentioned the nine-man Ultimate Xscape match at Lockdown for the first time on TV, even though they’ve been plugging it online for a while. Sabin wrestled circles around Robbie for a moment before tagging in Suicide, who hit a few impact moves before getting into it with Max Buck, which allowed Robbie to recover and get a quick pin attempt.

Tenay mentioned the strife between the brothers Buck as Max Buck was tagged in. Apparently, Max is a glory hog while Jeremy does the dirty work. Suicide was isolated in the corner with a lot of quick tags before Max tagged himself in selfishly when Jeremy was in the ring, allowing Suicide to get a hot tag to Kendrick at 3:00. Kendrick hit multiple drop kicks before he isolated Max in the ring after Suicide and Sabin went for springboard crossbodies. Sabin connected, Suicide didn’t, which allowed Jeremy to get back in the ring and save his brother with a quick version of Trouble in Paradise.

Jeremy went up to the top turnbuckle to hit a high impact move but his own brother crotched him on and asked him what he was doing. Max then hit a brutal DDT with Jeremy’s feet on the top turnbuckle. As Max posed angrily on the ropes, Kendrick snuck in and picked up the cheap pinfall.

WINNERS: Sabin, Kendrick, and Suicide in 4:00.

After the match, Max glared at his downed brother and yelled at him before taking off his ‘Gen Me’ armband and throwing it on his brother.

5 - DANIELS vs. BULLY RAY -- LUMBERJACK MATCH

The initial stare down came to the sounds of a ‘Fallen Angel’ chant. However, Ray took early control of the match before Daniels fought out of the corner and hit two big armdrags and tossed Ray to ringside. Luckily for him, it was amidst the Immortal crew and he got back in largely unscathed. However, Ray turned the table quickly and tossed Daniels into Immortal, where he was pounded mercilessly until Fortune intervened.

Back in the ring, Ray hit two big open palm slaps on Daniels’s chest before leveling him with a right cross. As Daniels was down leaning on the second rope, Ray slapped him in the back of the head and then got him back up, only to level him with a clothesline. Three minutes into the match, this has been all Bully Ray, much to the displeasure of the crowd.

Ray picked up his chain with Daniels leaning on the turnbuckles for support. However, the ref took the chain away and while Ray was complaining, it allowed Daniels time to recover and start a comeback. Daniels hit two elbows and an enziguiri that allowed him to hit a top rope huracanrana. Ray managed to slow his momentum with a clothesline but then missed a big splash that gave Daniels an opening to take him down hard and hit the Best Moonsault Ever.

However, as the ref (Jackson James) was counting the pin, Flair pulled him out of the ring. Fortune and Immortal stared each other down while the ref separated them. Unfortunately for Daniels, who was held in a headlock between the ropes by Bully Ray standing at ringside that meant that James’s back was turned when Hogan himself came down and hit a knockout punch on Daniels with the chain wrapped around his hand. James managed to notice what was going on just in time to count the pinfall victory for Bully Ray.

WINNER: BULLY RAY in 5:00.

6 -- TNA champion STING vs. ROB VAN DAM -- non-title match

RVD and Sting locked up briefly after the ball before both men played to the crowd. Lots of early stalling while the announcers talked up the possibility of Anderson scouting both men so close to Lockdown. When some action finally happened, RVD hit two thrust kicks off of the top rope before hitting Rolling Thunder for a two count. RVD’s momentum as stopped when he went for a big shoulder block in the corner and Sting moved, sending Van Dam’s shoulder flying into the ring post.

Sting took advantage of this, whipping Van Dam into the corner and following it up with a Stinger Splash. Shortly thereafter, RVD went down to a Scorpion Death Drop. As Sting stood up and everyone expected to see the Scorpion Death Lock, Anderson suddenly stopped playing the neutral ref and hit the Mic Check on Sting.

With both men down, Anderson started the count but skipped from one to six, which meant that RVD barely made it to his feet to avoid the double count-out. As the announcers said that RVD didn’t see Sting get hit with the Mic Check, Van Dam dragged a prone Sting to the center of the ring and hit the Five Star Frog Splash for the win.

WINNER: RVD in 3:30.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2011, 04:02 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_49171.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – KANE & BIG SHOW & SANTINO MARELLA & KOFI KINGSTON vs. THE CORRE – TWO-OUT-OF-THREE FALLS MATCH

Did the Corre’s theme get remixed again? Yeesh. Booker continued to harp on Corre’s lack of leadership and that possibly being their downfall. Justin Gabriel quickly went into a cover on Santino Marella early on, then tagged in Heath Slater once he got a clear advantage. Right hand to Santino and he went down, but then countered Slater’s punch and tagged Kane. Seated dropkick by Kane, while Slater was wiping his hair out of his face. Hard slap to the chest by Big Show, followed by a slam. Show then stepped on, then over Slater. Kofi tagged in, and stood on Show’s shoulders. Show walked to the middle of the ring so Kofi could splash Slater. He set up for Trouble in Paradise, but Corre pulled Slater out of the ring. They went to break at 2:25 of the first fall.

Kane was in the midst of an assault on Wade Barrett upon return from break, at about the 6:10 mark of fall number one. Barrett got an elbow up in the corner, giving him enough room to tag Zeke Jackson. He and Kane milked the moment, then squared off with a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Shoulder tackle, but it was Zeke who was taken off balance. Corre got involved illegally, giving Jackson the chance to take over. Lots of quick tags by the heels as they isolated Kane in their corner. Kane tagged Kofi at 8:40 and Kingston employed some of his high-octane offense to get the crowd into it. High crossbody of the top on Gabriel, and the first fall was registered at 9:08. The fall was announced, then just before Kofi and Gabriel were to go back at it, they went to break again.

WINNER of fall one: Santino, Kofi, Kane and Show, at 9:08.

Slater and Marella were going at it out of break. Santino made his comeback around 14:14 of the contest, then set up the Cobra. As he did, he missed the tag to Barrett, who kicked him in the face. Wasteland connected, and Barrett picked up the three at 14:43.

WINNER of fall two: Corre, at 5:35 (14:43 total).

Barrett stayed on the offensive against Corre, then dragged Santino over to his corner for another extended beat-down by the heels. Jackson got to toss Marella around a bit to show his strength. A pin was broken up by Show. Gabriel came in and worked a rear chinlock as Show tried to work the crowd. Santino got to his feet, but Gabriel put him back down. The audio sweetener liked that one, but not as much as last week’s Impact. Kane made the tag at about 17:35, as did Barrett. Side slam by Kane for two. Kane to the top, and his clothesline connected. Jackson broke up the pin and it was breaking loose in Charlotte. The combatants all went after each other outside the ring. Kane set up for the chokeslam, but the rest of Corre attacked, and the referee rang the bell.

WINNER of fall three (and match): Show, Kingston, Kane and Santino, via DQ at 3:47 (18:30 total). Good for what it was, with a combination long-form match and a stipulation that isn’t overused.

After the match all the faces hit their finishers on the heels, including Santino teaming up with Show and Kane on a chokeslam.

2- CODY RHODES vs. TRENT BARRETA

Rhodes pounded on Barreta with some right hands, but Barreta landeda springboard dropkick off the top rope. Side Russian leg sweep by Rhodes after Barreta couldn’t capitalize on his high-impact move. He threw Barreta shoulder-first into the ring post, then landed Cross Rhodes for three.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 1:30. The build-up of Rhodes continues.

After the match, Rhodes continued attacking Barreta, this time, by using his mask. Rey Mysterio’s music played and he came out, going right after Cody’s mask. Cody escaped before Mysterio could rip it off.

3 – LAYCOOL vs. KELLY KELLY & BETH PHOENIX

Mathews asked Cole why he wasn’t in his singlet tonight. “Because I’m not wre….I’m not entertaining tonight.” He even seemed to laugh at almost saying the “w” word. Layla was cheering on McCool from ringside, but McCool, who was thrown into the ropes, knocked Layla off. “What are you doing?” McCool shouted at her partner. Phoenix took advantage of the miscommunication, putting McCool down with a back-breaker. Apparently, McCool didn’t feel knocking Layla off, as she was wondering what Layla was doing down there. Beth pressed Layla over her head and placed her stomach-first over the top turnbuckle, then kicked her. Tag in to Kelly, who choked Layla with her legs in the ropes. She went to the top and landed a Tommy Dreamer-like cross-body for two. Bronco Buster by Kelly for two. Layla came back with some light kicks, then went to tag McCool. Michelle comically fell from the apron, feigning a back injury. Layla was rolled up by Kelly and pinned for three.

WINNERS: Kelly and Beth, at 2:40. Looks like the break-up of LayCool is back on the front-burner. This match had some unique moves in it.

Layla tracked down McCool in the aisle, but Michelle pulled her arm away when Layla grabbed it. “I’m the one doing this for you,” McCool told her, then walked away.

4 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRISTIAN - #1 CONTENDER’S MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

After Christian came out, Edge entered the arena to do guest commentary. The first pin attempt was by Del Rio about 45 seconds into the match. Test of strength tease, but Del Rio got the upper hand. Leapfrog by Christian, who took down Del Rio with a few shoulder tackles. Headlock take-over by Christian on Del Rio. Right hand slaps by Christian, who then threw Del Rio over the top rope. Baseball slide by Christian to Del Rio. Del Rio used the commentary table to hoist himself up, and Edge held up the title, almost right in his face. They went to break about 3:10 into the main event.

Back at approximately 5:55. Del Rio tossed Christian into the ring steps on the outside, then into the barricade. Christian worked out of a rest-hold as WWE thanked the Charlotte Regional Film Commission in small print at the bottom of the screen. Running knee to the face by Del Rio on Christian in the corner. Christian came back with a right hand. He went to the top rope, but Del Rio put a stop to that. He tried to suplex Christian off, and did so. Edge likened that move to an electric charge going through your body. Inside cradle by Christian, who had been playing possum. Only a two-count. Del Rio missed wildly with a punch, and Christian clotheslined Del Rio over the top rope, although he went over as well. Christian was thrown into the ring post head-first, and Del Rio just made it back in the ring before the ten-count (he had rolled Christian in beforehand). Christian dodged Del Rio as the heel came off the turnbuckle. Christian started hitting his signature moves just after 11:00 of the match. Cross-body off the top by Christian for two. Cross arm-breaker was countered and Christian tried a springboard sunset flip. Del Rio rolled through and catapulted Christian into the corner. Del Rio then locked on the cross arm-breaker. Christian tangled his feet in the ropes to break. Christian gave Del Rio a bit of whiplash, working over the neck on the top rope. Brodus Clay distracted Christian, so Edge speared the big man. Del Rio hit an enziguiri on Christian, who had settled on the top rope. The pin was made and Del Rio got the win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 13:20. Very good main event, with Christian’s history in Ladder Matches an intriguing sub-plot.

Del Rio made the title belt sign with his hands around his waist as he made his way up the ramp. Edge checked on Christian in the ring as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 14 2011, 04:42 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-11-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49219.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- Divas champion EVE vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) -- Divas Title match
Back from break, the Bellas were already in the ring for a random match. It was announced as a Divas Title match. Eve pulled out a marker and demanded the legal Bella Twin be marked so they couldn't do the switcheroo. The Bellas still tried it, which served as a distraction to give Brie an opening to smash Eve with a facebuster for the pin. And there's a new Divas champion.
WINNER: Brie at 2:15 to capture the Divas Title. The title change came out of nowhere, but WWE has been featuring the Bellas for a while now, so it makes sense.

2 -- SIN CARA vs. PRIMO
Cole noted Sin Cara has a huge international following. Mathews offered the eighth pronunciation of his name before Sin Cara knocked Primo to the ring apron. The crowd responded with a "Sin Cara" chant before Primo ate a monkey flip into the ring ropes. Sin Cara knocked Primo to the floor, then came flying over the top rope with a huracanrana to the floor. The crowd popped as Cole wondered how he does that. Sin Cara threw Primo into the ring, but Primo responded with a dropkick to take control of the match. Primo then ripped off a hard chop to the chest before missing with a corner splash. Sin Cara answered with a series of chops to the chest that drew Ric Flair "whoos." Sin Cara then snapped off a flying head scissors followed by another one. Primo cut him off, though, and went for a powerbomb, but Sin Cara countered with a sunset flip powerbomb for a two count. Nice. Primo tried a top-rope response, but Sin Cara smashed him with an enziguiri. Sin Cara tried a top-rope move, but Primo slipped and Sin Cara fell to the floor. Oops. Primo re-sold on the top turnbuckle and Sin Cara re-entered the ring to smash him with an enziguiri. Sin Cara reset the finishing move: a backflip facebuster suplex. Cara with the pin for the win as the announcers sold the "wow" factor. A few replays were shown before Sin Cara was shown celebrating on the stage.
WINNER: Sin Cara at 4:31. WWE certainly tapped into Sin Cara's strengths with this offering working with a lesser opponent to get over his high-flying moves. The top-rope slip wasn't good, but they recovered fine. Thumbs up in-ring debut as WWE introduces him to the audience before he starts an actual storyline/feud. (*1/2)

3 -- THE APPLE (SANTINO & DANIEL BRYAN & EVAN BOURNE & MARK HENRY) vs. THE CORRE (IC champion WADE BARRETT & EZEKIEL JACKSON & WWE tag champions HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL) -- eight-man tag match
The match was joined in progress with Corre working over Bryan as the announcers made eight-year-old comments about the apple facing the core. The heels continued to work over Bryan with frequent tags as Cole continued to crack jokes. Bryan finally broke free with a running kick strike on the weakest link, Slater. Bryan then made the tag to Santino, who entered with left hand jabs for Slater. Santino knocked Gabriel off the apron, ducked a clothesline, hip-tossed Slater, and delivered the sailor's salute fist drop. The action suddenly broke down, then Bryan went flying through the ropes with a suicide dive on Barrett. Santino wanted the Cobra on Slater, but Gabriel smashed Santino from behind from the floor. Slater then dropped a stunned Santino for the pin and the win. Corre regrouped in the ring following the victory, but then continued to argue. Zeke just stood off to the side.
WINNERS: Corre at 3:32. Weird. Just weird. At least Corre didn't look pathetic like they usually do when they have a cameo on Raw. APPLE seemed like a one-week team, but we'll see if they continue another week. (*)

3 -- JERRY LAWLER (w/Jim Ross) vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Michael Cole)
Cole could be heard bickering at Ross and encouraging Swagger while Ross gave instructions to Lawler. Lawler punched Swagger in the face before doing a mock version of Swagger and Cole's victory lap. The ringside participants were heavily mic'ed for this one. No Josh Mathews on the call. Cole kept shouting at Ross while Swagger put Lawler in a headlock. Lawler powered out, but Swagger grabbed his ankle. Lawler grabbed the bottom rope to avoid tapping out to the anklelock, then Swagger resumed his work on the ankle. Cole continued to rant and rave ringside as Swagger went back to work on Lawler with a wristlock. Swagger taunted Lawler, who started to no-sell a bit. Then again. Lawler felt the power and turned around to face Swagger. Right hand. Then another. Then another. Swagger stumbled around the ring, then took a dropkick to the back. Lawler caught his breath as Cole teased getting involved. "Jerry, Jerry" chant as Cole got on the ring apron to distract Lawler. Lawler took the bait and teased hitting Cole, then Swagger popped Lawler from behind. Cole continued to stand on the ring apron, so Ross came around to yank Cole off the apron. Cole collapsed to the ground, then Lawler rolled up Swagger from behind. Small package led to a three count, shocking Swagger. Lawler gets his re-match with Cole, who held his head selling disbelief.
WINNER: Lawler at 5:13. Lawler does so much with his facial expressions and mannerisms to tell a story. This was good raising the anticipation for Cole finally getting his comeuppance.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 14 2011, 04:43 pm

4a -- RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- #1 Contender Five-man Gauntlet match
Miz had plenty of talking time on the four-man commentary booth while Mathews mainly handled play-by-play. Orton absorbed Ziggler's early offense, then spiked Ziggler with his trademark DDT from the second rope. Orton pounded the mat looking for the RKO, but New Nexus members Davie Otunga and McGillicutty stormed the ring apron to distract Orton. Ziggler then rolled up Orton from behind to score a pin. Post-match: Mason Ryan joined Otunga and Mike in the ring. Ryan blasted Orton with an emphatic powerbomb before Nexus stood over Orton. Miz smiled. They faded to commercial with Nexus standing tall over Ziggler.
WINNER: Ziggler at 2:37. Too short to be a full-fledged match before Nexus resurfaced. Apparently it's Refocus On Factions Night.

4b -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. R-TRUTH -- #1 Contender Five-man Gauntlet match
Back from break, R-Truth was in the ring to face Ziggler in the next phase of this match. Miz wanted to know which R-Truth they would get: the kids-friendly wrestler or someone to be reckoned with. Ziggler worked over Truth as Miz continued to talk non-stop. Ziggler and Truth were moving in slow-motion here. Lawler then stopped Miz in his tracks when Miz said he's not a talker. Ross was sitting in-between Miz and Lawler otherwise they teased coming to blows. Truth finally showed some life with a faceplant suplex on Ziggler for a nearfall. Vickie had to catch her breath as Ziggler rebounded with a neckbreaker on Truth. Truth then suddenly pulled out a finishing move and eliminated Ziggler.
WINNER: Truth at 3:58 (11:12 total). Bland, boring, drab match. Truth showed hardly any life here. (1/2*)

4c -- R-TRUTH vs. JOHN MORRISON -- #1 Contender Five-man Gauntlet match
Truth finally showed some life exchanging rapid-fire nearfalls with Morrison coming back from break. Miz mock applauded their effort. Morrison then pancaked Truth and played to the crowd before making a cover for a nearfall. Miz said the fancy, high-flying always gets Morrison in trouble. Morrison grounded Truth as Miz mocked Cena always having the advantage being Super Cena, like being the last man in this gauntlet match. Ross stressed the importance of the WWE Title as Truth went back to sleep in the ring. Morrison clotheslined Truth to the floor, then both men knocked each other down with a double clothesline. The ref applied a ten count, but both men made it back in at nine. In the ring, Morrison built momentum with rapid-fire clotheslines that couldn't put Truth away. Five kids in the crowd randomly shouted, "We love you, John," over the silent crowd. Truth then hit a jawbreaker on Morrison for a nearfall. Morrison came back with the flying chuck, but didn't make a cover, which Miz noted. Morrison wanted the Starship Pain, but Truth moved and Morrison ate the mat. Truth then hit the Lie Detector and scored a pinfall to no reaction. Truth advances to the finals.
WINNER: Truth at 4:48 of what aired (19:56 total). Truth appeared to be prepared to run one-fourth of a 10k tonight. (*)

4d -- R-TRUTH vs. JOHN CENA -- #1 Contender Five-man Gauntlet match
Back live, the crowd was alive with a dueling chant of "Let's Go Cena" vs. "Cena sucks." Miz talked about the "people with brains" chanting Cena sucks. Cena scored an early nearfall before landing a suplex for another two count. Cena shot Truth a look, selling what Ross has been playing up that it could be Truth's night. Cena continued to score nearfalls before scratching his chin to survey his next move. It's so rare to see Cena on sustained offense prior to his comeback routine. Cena then lifted Truth in the air for a big overhead suplex for another two count. Ross noted Cena is tapping into his trademark brute power. Truth then pounded the mat, selling some life. Cena smirked and stalked Truth for another suplex. And another two count. At the top of the hour, Cena decided to take his offense up top. Cena wanted the guillotine leg smash and he glanced Truth with it. Truth sold like he took it in full and Cena made a cover for a close nearfall. Cena smiled again before throwing out his arms asking what he has to do win this. Suddenly, Truth smashed Cena with a right hand and Cena fell over like a tree in the woods. Both men sold on the mat as the crowd resumed a very loud dueling chant. Cena and Truth came to their feet and Truth showed some life with a hip toss followed by the Lie Detector. Truth made the cover, but Cena kicked out. Ross said it's anyone's ballgame at this point. Truth stalked Cena for Pay Dirt, but Cena moved and entered Comeback Routine. Cena then posed for the hard camera and called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but not before indicating to Miz he can't see him. Cena then lifted up Truth for the Attitude Adjustment, but Miz and Riley stormed the ring to attack Cena. The ref threw out the match and Roberts announced a double DQ. Lawler said he doesn't agree with that decision.
WINNER: Double DQ at 5:32 of what aired (30:47 total). Fine final portion of the match with a little different take on a Cena singles match with Cena in control for the majority of the match. Truth at least showed more life in match #3. WWE has to be happy with a rejuvenated crowd response for a Cena match after a few dead-crowd responses recently. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 14 2011, 04:43 pm
Also on WWE RAW tonight...Edge retires!!! (PWTorch.com: Caldwell's WWE RAW Report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49219.shtml)

In-ring: Justin Roberts announced the World Hvt. champion, Edge, who bounced out on-stage sporting sunglasses and wearing the World Title belt over his shoulder. Edge took a deep breath and slowly made his way to the ring as Lawler talked him up as one of the most popular WWE Superstar in history. Lawler said he hopes the rumors of his retirement isn't true. Lawler, Mathews, and Ross were on commentary now.

Edge's music stopped and he smiled to the crowd before slowly pacing around. Edge said he's probably going to ramble a bit here. He said a lot of people think what they do in WWE doesn't hurt, but anyone in the locker room or has ever wrestled knows what they do hurts. Edge said eight years ago, he broke his neck, prompting spinal surgery. Because of that, he knew he was wrestling on borrowed time. Edge said for the last while, he's been in a lot of pain and losing feeling in his arms. He passed strength tests and made it through Mania, but WWE wanted him to get more tests. He said the MRI showed he has to retire. The crowd shrieked. Edge said the doctors told him he has no choice, but it's a good thing since he won't end up in a wheelchair now.

Edge teared up as the crowd applauded. The cheers grew louder as Edge paced the ring. Edge stroked his hair before pausing for a "Thank you, Edge," chant. Edge laughed and said this has been an emotional rollercoaster of a week for him. He said that until he talked to Christian, his best friend for 27 years, he was angry at himself and his body. Edge said he felt like he was letting everyone down and he wasn't ending this on his terms. But, he wrestled his entire career on his terms. Edge said he is a huge fan of WWE. Every month, Christian and he would watch their favorites at Maple Leaf Gardens. He name-dropped LOD, Demolition, and Hulk Hogan. Then, he watched Hogan vs. Warrior at WrestleMania 6. Fast-forward to facing Undertaker at WrestleMania. Edge said he's won more titles than anyone in the history of WWE. Edge said that retiring as World Hvt. champion after having his final match at WrestleMania couldn't be better.

Edge said he's been doing this for 19 years and 14 years with WWE. He said he grew up and made mistakes in front of the audience. He became a man in front of the audience. Edge said he went from a guy running around in a trench coat to a member of The Brood, then Edge & Christian, then one of the most despised guys in WWE, then a Live Sex celebration with Lita and thankfully not Vickie Guerrero, and hopefully he's earned the respect of everyone in the locker room.

Edge said that no matter what, he tried to give the audience as much of what he had every single night. And, in turn, the fans gave it right back. Edge said he's going to miss all of this, like the reaction when his music hits. He said he doesn't have to wear tights tomorrow and he's going to eat a whole lot of ice cream tonight. Whether he would do this all over again - starting with getting hired by JR - he would do it in a heartbeat. "So, thank you. Thank you very much," Edge said before dropping the mic. The crowd was shown standing on their feet applauding Edge, who looked into the crowd to soak in the moment. Edge slipped out of the ring, then high-fived some fans ringside. Edge eventually made it up the rampway and posed one more time as his music played. They faded to commercial.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 14 2011, 04:44 pm
WWE NXT Results: 4-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49254.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and redemption standings.

1 -- DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero) vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle)

Young quickly took control as Hornswoggle tried to rally the crowd behind Titus. Titus made a big comeback with knock-down clotheslines before measuring Young for a flying clothesline. Young then allowed himself to be distracted by Hornswoggle, allowing Titus to roll up Young from behind for the win.

Post-match: the heel-turned Young attacked Titus from behind and put him on his stomach with a gutbuster. The announcers noted it's too late. Young got a crazy look in his eye as he grabbed Hornswoggle, putting him in harm's way. Chavo then stepped in and tried to calm down Young, telling him to focus on him. Chavo told Young not to worry about Hornswoggle because the problem was the match, not Horny. The crowd became very concerned for Hornswoggle's well-being, with Young milking it until the crowd's maximum interest before releasing Hornswoggle.

WINNER: Titus at 2:28. Nice character development for Young showing some renewed aggression from his Nexus days.

2 -- JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG) vs. BYRON SAXTON (w/Yoshi Tatsu)

Novak, looking like Slam Master J, was quickly knocked to the floor via a clothesline from Saxton. On the floor, Novak dropped Saxton across the apron. Grisham noted Novak has yet to pick up a Redemption Point this season. "I'll give him some redemption," Regal said under his breath. Grisham noted Regal's respect for the ring, prompting Regal to endorse the ring as his mecca, his temple to apply his trade. Since the match slowed to a virtual standstill, the focus turned to Regal talking about his career and trying to learn a new trade announcing. Grisham noted Regal is trying to get out of the ring, but Novak is trying to pull him back in. Novak then used the Timbalands to smash Saxton in the torso multiple times. This was good enough for a pin, giving Novak a surprise win. Grisham asked Regal if he was impressed. Regal added a great pause before giving Novak a mild endorsement.

WINNER: Novak at 3:43. If anyone is going to get something out of Novak on this season, it's Regal, who excelled on commentary during this segment.

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. LUCKY CANNON

Cannon quickly took it to Yoshi, grounding him on the mat. Maryse said this show should be called MXT - Maryse Xtreme TV since everyone is fighting over her. The camera went back and forth between Maryse ringside and the back-and-forth action in the ring. Grisham had to loosen his tie as Maryse inched closer to him trying to engage Regal in a conversation. Lucky then slipped out of the ring and said this show is about him. Maryse laughed in his face. Back in the ring, Yoshi blasted Cannon with chops followed by rapid-fire kicks. Maryse said Yoshi is like a five-year-old who needs to grew up, but she likes his innocence. Up top, Yoshi nailed a big roundhouse kick to the face. Cannon slumped to the mat and Yoshi made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Yoshi at 3:18. There was a match? Lucky is showing something new each week, but it's not in the ring at this point.

Post-match: Maryse slipped into the ring and laughed in Lucky's face. She then approached Yoshi to plant a big kiss on his lips. Yoshi stood straight up in the ring as Cannon sold disgust with this development. Grisham noted Yoshi did it - he won the match and the girl. Yoshi jumped up and down as Cannon held his head in disdain. Maryse marched away before they replayed the kiss. Grisham closed the show with a voice-over on a still shot of Yoshi standing straight up in the ring post-kiss.

Titus has 13 points, Young with 7, and Saxton with 4.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2011, 10:04 am
WWE Superstars Results: 4-14-11

Note: You can catch WWE Superstars every Thursday night online at WWE.com/shows/wwesuperstars (http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwesuperstars)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_49302.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. CURT HAWKINS

Korpela noted a recent conversation with Masters, who said he may have risen too fast too soon during his first run in 2005 and he's more appreciative of his current WWE run. Hawkins stalled early on, trying to avoid Masters's attempts at power offense to frustrate him. Striker and Korpela then discussed Edge's retirement. Striker said WWE is losing a locker room leader more than anything else. Masters came up bleeding from the mouth, then Hawkins took control leading to a designated break.

Back from break, Masters fought back and nailed a shoulder tackle from the second rope. Masters then called for the Masterlock, but Hawkins rolled through into an arm drag before Masters could fully clasp the hold, executing a nifty counter for a close nearfall. Masters then ducked a clothesline while standing on the ring apron and slapped on the Masterlock. The crowd popped with Hawkins in jeopardy, then Masters lifted Hawkins over the top rope to mid-ring and clenched the hold tight for the submission victory

WINNER: Masters via submission at 5:48. If WWE is looking for a babyface to ascend up the ladder a bit with roster depth issues and Edge's absence, Masters is always there as a potential candidate. Whether he could take the ball and run with it remains to be seen.

2 -- GAIL KIM & NATALYA vs. MARYSE & MELINA

Raw announcer Scott Stanford dropped an old-school MNM reference with Maryse and Melina teaming up. The "N" would be provided by Natalya if they were on the same team. Gail displayed athleticism early on with a high cross-body block on Melina, then Maryse provided a distraction to give the heels control on Gail. Natalya eventually tagged in and went on the attack with power offense on the heels. The action broke down at 5:00, then Natalya grappled Maryse to slap on the Sharpshooter. Maryse was caught center-ring and she tapped out, giving the faces the win.

WINNERS: Gail & Natalya via submission at 5:32. Fine showcase match for the Divas division after some actual focus on Monday's Raw. It will be interesting to see how Kong's eventual debut is incorporated into the picture.

Speaking of which, the vignette on Kong from Monday's Raw aired before going to break.

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Runjin Singh)

Stanford noted Khali's lumberjack match victory before WrestleMania as Josh Mathews questioned whether Ryder is actually believing his own hype and press. Ryder repeatedly backed off in the corner to slow down Khali. Mathews dropped a Rory Mcilroy reference on whether Ryder's star will implode on the biggest stage (e.g. the Masters), which popped Stanford. Khali seemed confused by Ryder's antics and tactics, which led to Ryder arguing with Singh ringside. Khali capitalized with a clothesline and big open-hand chop to the chest to take control. Khali with another one on the other side of the ring.

Khali, with a big smile on his face, warmed up for a third, but Ryder landed a dropkick to the knees. "Whoo Whoo Whoo!" Ryder shouted at Khali before applying a front facelock. Khali easily escaped, then nailed a clothesline and chop to the head. "How is Ryder still standing in this match?" Stanford asked, oblivious to Ryder lying on the mat, which Mathews called him on. The lovable Stanford laughed off his error, then Khali finished off Ryder with the Punjabi Plunge. Khali with the pin for the quick house show-quality victory followed. This was followed by some dancing for the enjoyment of the kids in attendance.

WINNER: Khali at 3:25. Fine. Ryder got some mic time and was able to shine his heel personality a bit before the inevitable loss to Khali.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2011, 10:11 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_49313.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CRIMSON (w/Scott Steiner) vs. JESSE NEAL (w/Shannon Moore) vs. DOUG WILLIAMS (w/Magnus) vs. ORLANDO JORDAN (w/Eric Young)

Taz said it's like a captain's match previewing the four-team match at Lockdown. He tried to promote an actual tag team rankings, with the winning team supposedly having a chance to move up said rankings with a win at Lockdown. There was more action on the outside early on with Steiner stalking Shannon Moore, who has antagonized Steiner recently. Shannon kept flexing in Steiner's face, then Neal tried to wave off Shannon's antics. Steiner eventually rammed Shannon into the guardrail and Neal gave chase. Crimson then went looking for Steiner and Abyss randomly showed up to clothesline Crimson. On the other side of the ring, Young and Magnus were doing a dance move or something. The camera caught it mid-action, so it looked completely out of place. Abyss then removed a portion of the guardrail and chokeslammed Crimson onto the guardrail.

In the ring, Jordan and Williams battled, then EY randomly entered the ring and tried to suplex the referee. Jordan then dropped Williams with the Gender Bender - a spinning facebuster - for the win. Taz noted there were a lot of moving parts, which is code for it was horribly over-booked. Medics quickly checked on Crimson and they quickly cut away.

WINNER: Jordan at 4:28. What a mess to start the in-ring portion of the Lockdown lead-in show. How is that first match action out of the chute going to inspire anyone to order a PPV in three days?

2 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN (w/Fortune) vs. MATT HARDY (w/Immortal) -- non-title match

Kazarian scored an early nearfall with a surprise crucifix pin right after the bell sounded, then Hardy regrouped and went to work on Kazarian. Hardy focused on Kazarian's neck as Tenay noted it will be Storm vs. Abyss later tonight and Ric Flair will be wrestling if a third match is needed. Yes, they barely slipped in an ad for Flair possibly wrestling on this show. By TNA's attempted booking logic, if The Network wants ratings, wouldn't they promote the heck out of Flair possibly wrestling and book Flair in match #1 or #2 to ensure he wrestles tonight?

In any event, Kazarian made a comeback and went for his inverted piledriver, but Hardy rolled through. Kazarian came back with a springboard missile dropkick and made a cover, but Hardy got his foot on the bottom rope. Hardy then crawled to his feet and ate a boot to the face. Hardy sold the heck out of it, suckering Hebner in to help bump Kazarian from the top rope. Hardy then applied the...Ice Pick...a neck-vice submission hold that forced Kaz to tap out, giving Hardy the win.

WINNER: Hardy via submission at 5:10. Fine match with Hardy working the neck throughout the match setting up his submission finisher. (*1/2)

3 -- SAMOA JOE & MATT MORGAN & KURT ANGLE vs. JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) & HERNANDEZ (w/Mexican America) & "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Jarrett feigned starting the match off with Angle and danced around the ring a bit before quickly tagging out to Hernandez. Jarrett quickly slipped to the outside and Jarrett pointed to his head to show how smart he is, then they cut to an early break.

Back from break, Pope landed right hand jabs to Morgan's mid-section, but Morgan came back with his trademark rapid-fire elbows in the corner. Morgan missed with a big boot in the corner when Pope moved, so the heels went right to work on Morgan's left knee. Hernandez cockily tagged in and went to work on his injured opponent at Lockdown, but Morgan came back with a big discus clothesline. Angle then took a tag and ran right into Hernandez's boot, but Angle responded with a cat-like leap up top for an overhead toss. Angle sold the effects more than Hernandez did, then Angle tagged in Joe as Jarrett tagged in for Hernandez. Joe tried to submit Jarrett, but the action broke down. Bodies started flying, then Jarrett took off running to the back. Angle, hunched over, chased Jarrett to the back. In the ring, Joe tried the rear naked choke on Hernandez, but Pope came off the top with an elbow smash. A gimmick was introduced, which took the ref's eyes off the ball. Pope then smashed Joe with the knucks and made the cover for the win.

Post-match: MexAm put the boots to Morgan before rolling Morgan back into the ring. Hernandez then landed a pulled punch to the forehead that put Morgan out cold next to Joe in the ring. MexAm and The Pope stood over their Lockdown opponents confident with their work this week.

WINNERS: Team Pope at 9:28. Fine for setting up three matches at Lockdown in one match, but not well-paced moving right along to the Hogan Show rather than letting the events sink in. (*1/4)

4 -- ABYSS vs. TNA tag champion JAMES STORM

Tenay plugged the Angle vs. Jarrett match at Lockdown with the new stipulation of a best-of-three falls match via pin, submission, and escape. Early on, Abyss wanted a charging corner splash, but Storm waited for the hourglass to expire before moving out of the way. Tenay advertised match three of the series was still to come tonight. He was cut off mid-sentence before he could add the qualifier that only if Storm won this one. Storm landed a backstabber on Abyss for a nearfall, then wanted a superkick, but Abyss countered with a Black Hole Slam for the win.

Post-match: Bully Ray led Immortal to the ring to celebrate Abyss's victory, giving them the man advantage at Lockdown. Taz noted Flair wasn't even dressed to wrestle. Immortal teased a post-match attack on Storm before Fortune stormed the ring to save Storm.

WINNER: Abyss at 3:45. TNA picks the oddest times to have rare clean finishes on TV, as their X Division champ and one-half of the tag champions were both pinned clean on the same show. For the Lockdown, the heels are supposed to cheat to get the man advantage. Now, the babyfaces just look like chumps. Skipping ahead, at least there was follow-up from Beer Money at the very end of the show vowing revenge on Immortal, which was a nice recovery touch. (*)

5a -- MR. ANDERSON vs. MURPHY

Anderson finished off Murphy rather easily with the Mic Check.
WINNER: Anderson at 1:27.

5b -- MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB TERRY

No rest period for Anderson here as Terry hit the ring and nearly walked into a small package for a pin, but Terry kicked out in time. Anderson then ducked a clothesline and hit the Mic Check.
WINNER: Anderson at 3:23.

5c -- MR. ANDERSON vs. TV champion GUNNER -- non-title match

Bully Ray sent Gunner to the ring and Gunner focused on Anderson's injured knee and leg. Gunner is just too over-the-top with his intensity to be taken seriously. Anderson fought out of the corner with a series of clotheslines before executing a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ray paced nervously on-stage as Anderson avoided a corner splash. Anderson then hit the Mic Check again for a pin.
WINNER: Anderson at 5:14. That makes three champions taking clean losses on this week's show.

5d -- MR. ANDERSON vs. BULLY RAY

Ray slowly made his way to the ring as Anderson sold on the mat. Ray shouted down at Anderson to get up and fight him. Ray landed repeated elbow smashes "with all the weight behind it," as Tenay put it. Ray then hung Anderson upside-down in the corner and pounded on Anderson's knee. Taz wondered what condition Anderson will be in at Lockdown. Taz heeled on Anderson for disrespecting Immortal and questioning their authority. Shouldn't there be a pro-babyface talking point advocating Anderson standing up to authority figures who abuse their power and try to put people in compromising positions for their own gain? Anderson scored a desperation nearfall after a rolling gutbuster, then both men slowly made it back to their feet.

Rey knocked Anderson to the floor, then cracked the ref over the head. Ray dragged Anderson up the stage looking for the powerbomb ala A.J. Styles, but Hogan's music interrupted. Hogan wanted the honors here. Hogan took off the backbrace, then set up Anderson for a powerbomb off the stage, but Sting snuck up behind Hogan. Abyss came out, but Sting smashed him with a baseball bat. Sting and Ray then came face-to-face and Sting jabbed him in the gut. Sting then stood over Anderson and his music played. Anderson begged off as Taz tried to save the Lockdown main event sales pitch by introducing RVD into the equation, wondering what he must thinking right now.

WINNER: No Finish at 13:08 when they cut to break.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2011, 03:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_49334.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Jackson was already in the ring, with the rest of Corre on commentary. That’s a bit of overkill. Corre teased dissension almost immediately. Jackson powered Kingston down, but Kofi came back with some kicks to the body. He went to jump on Jackson in the corner, but Zeke pushed him off. Springboard forearm by Kingston, followed by a dropkick. Jackson was sent to ringside, then Kingston dropkicked him through the middle rope. Jackson pushed Kofi into the side of the ring, then press slammed Kofi right into the rest of Corre at the announce table. Back in the ring, Kofi caught Jackson and was about to finish him off when Barrett tried to get involved, though it wasn’t clear if he was trying to go after Jackson or not. That distraction led Jackson to hit Kingston with the uranage for the win.

WINNER: Jackson, at 2:23. So much for building up some mid-card babyfaces to fill in for Edge’s loss. And why have Josh Mathews call out Heath Slater for his grammar on commentary? The announcers should be putting the wrestlers over, not making them look like fools.

2 – REY MYSTERIO vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Cole said McIntyre is upset at having been left off the Wrestlemania card. Yeah, he and the rest of the locker room that wasn’t on the show, I’m sure. McIntyre slowed Rey down with a scoop slam for a near-fall. He stepped on Rey’s head as Rey was set up under the bottom rope. Hard whip into the buckle by Drew. Mac paused before hitting a side slam, allowing Rey to come back. Dropkick by Rey, followed by a baseball slide on the outside. McIntyre caught Mysterio as Rey tried to do a headscissors at ringside, and Mac slammed Rey head-first into the barricade. They went to break at 2:50 of the match.

Back to action at the 6:17 mark. Mysterio fought out of a rest-hold, then ushered McIntyre through the middle rope and out of the ring as McIntyre had him in a rear waist-lock. Rey caught Mac trying to come back in and gave him a legdrop with McIntyre draped over the middle rope. Mysterio ran the ropes and ended up being caught in a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker for two. Hard shots to the chest of Mysterio. Another rest-hold at 8:26 of the contest, but it was a quick one. McIntyre rammed his shoulder into Rey’s gut in the corner, but missed a second time and caught all ring post. To the top went Rey, and he dropped the dime on McIntyre. Headscissors take-over then a springboard cross-body for two. Sunset flip by McIntyre, but Rey flipped out and ran right into a big boot for a near-fall. Booker called him out for a lax cover. Rey came off the top and DDT’d McIntyre. He made the cover, but McIntyre got his foot on the rope to break it up. Big clothesline almost took Rey’s head off. And it was done in the kneeling position by Drew. Short clothesline attempt, but Rey flipped around Drew’s back and set up the 619. It connected, as did his splash off the top rope for the win.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 12:17. Above-average TV match. They were really playing up how McIntyre had his chances to win, but was taking too much time.

3 – KELLY KELLY vs. LAYLA

McCool walked to the ring ahead of Layla. She joined in on commentary when the match began. Layla was on offense to start but Kelly came back with a Thesz Press. Kick to the knee by Layla, but Kelly came back and choked Layla in the ropes with her legs. She pulled Layla out of the ring, with Layla landing face-first on the ringside mat. More fighting at ringside and Kelly pushed Layla into the Cole Mine. Layla stared at McCool, and Kelly gave Layla the face-buster on the outside. As Layla was on her way to being counted out, McCool aggressively grabbed Layla and threw her into the ring. Kelly rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: Kelly, at 2:03.

After the match, McCool confronted Layla in the ring. Layla tried to talk to Michelle, but Michelle was having none of it. Layla grabbed McCool’s hand, but McCool pulled it away and shoved Layla down. Then she left the ring. Hate to see the two break up, but at least they’re making the right one the babyface.

4 – 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL TO DETERMINE ALBERTO DEL RIO’S OPPONENT AT EXTREME RULES

JTG was eliminated at 16 seconds, by Big Show. Trent Barreta tried to toss Show, but he ended up getting thrown out at :37. Wade Barrett was working over Yoshi Tatsu. Isn’t Tatsu on Raw? Heath Slater almost out, but he held onto the apron. Show punched him out at 1:13, then charged at Zeke Jackson. Both he and Big Show went out at 1:23 on a clothesline by Show. Chavo Guerrero darted around the apron, avoiding contact, as they went to break at about 2:30.

They returned to action at six minutes exactly. Doesn’t look like anyone else has been eliminated. Rhodes and Mysterio were going at it in the corner, and Chris Masters almost pushed him out as Rhodes perched himself on the top rope. Kane and Kingston teamed up to try to get Barrett out. Tyler Reks bodyslammed Justin Gabriel in the middle of the ring. Cole was cheering for Swagger. Springboard dropkick sent Rhodes out via Mysterio at 7:38. Curt Hawkins went out at 7:49 when Mysterio headscissored him out. Brodus Clay ran over Drew McIntyre, who was on the apron, at 8:14. Chavo jumped on Clay’s back and Clay dumped him at 8:29. Kane and Clay faced off and Kane gave him an uppercut. He went for a chokeslam, which drew a pop from the fans, but Kane couldn’t hit it. Clay couldn’t slam Kane, and Kane tossed him at 9:24, much to the chagrin of Alberto Del Rio. They went to break again at 9:40 of the match.

Kingston skinned the cat just as they returned from break, and grabbed Barrett between his legs. Barrett kicked Kingston in the chest to eliminate him at 13:40. Masters and Reks rekindled their Superstars feud. They haven’t yet focused on Christian, and I was beginning to wonder if he was even in the match. Christian dumped Reks to the apron and brought him down throat-first on the top rope to send him home at 14:46. Christian tossed out Tatsu at 15:05. Kane started hitting anything that moved, and he grabbed Gabriel and Barrett by the throat. They broke free and double clotheslined Kane out at 15:44. Masters was booted out by Barrett at 16:24, then Gabriel came from behind and tossed Barrett at 16:26. Down to four with Swagger, Mysterio, Gabriel and Christian. Rey paired off with Gabriel and Christian with Swagger. Standing heel kick by Gabriel on Rey, but Rey threw Gabriel into 619 position. Gabriel fought his way out but Rey hurricanrana’d Gabriel out at 17:57. I think he’s contractually obligated to do that once per battle royal. Swagger tried to throw Rey out, but Rey held on. To the top rope he went, and he positioned Swagger for the 619. Cole ran up and protected Swagger from the 619. Swagger then eliminated Rey at 19:04. Down to Swagger and Christian. Swagger tried a Swagger bomb, but Christian grabbed him and tried to toss him. He couldn’t and Swagger ended up on the advantage. Christian and Swagger fought on the apron just after the 20:00 mark. Swagger locked on the ankle-lock there and both men came back into the ring. Christian flipped out of it, but Swagger put Christian on his shoulders. Christian failed to throw Swagger out and Christian held onto the top rope on Swagger’s toss. Christian fought with him and Del Rio came from the announce table and tried to pull Christian’s foot off the apron. Swagger charged and Christian low-bridged him, giving him the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 22:18. Pretty solid for a battle royal.

Edge came out to congratulate Christian, hugging him in the middle of the ring. Del Rio stood on the announce table, pointing at the title as Christian and Edge looked on from the ring. Edge raised Christian’s arm as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 18 2011, 01:10 pm
TNA Lockdown PPV Results: 4-17-11 (next three posts!)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_49368.shtml)

1 -- ULTIMATE XSCAPE MATCH -- #1 contender match

To recap, it's an eight-man bout with Max Buck vs. Jeremy Buck vs. Chris Sabin vs. Suicide vs. Robbie E. vs. Jay Lethal vs. Amazing Red vs. Brian Kendrick. Robbie eliminated Suicide with a random move at 2:46. The crowd lightly booed this development. Tenay noted Alex Shelley was scheduled for this match, but he couldn't get doctor's clearance for his shoulder issues. Red then eliminated Lethal at 4:55 with his Code Red finisher. Sabin followed a massive clothesline on Red for the next elimination at 5:50. Next, Max Buck eliminated Sabin with a top-rope maneuver at 7:20. The crowd was completely indifferent.

Brian Kendrick entered after sitting in the corner rocking back and forth for the first seven minutes. The Buck brothers then battled a bit. Younger brother Jeremy showed some fire before Max rolled him with a small package for the next fall at 9:42. Kendrick fought against the remaining heels, Max and Robbie. Kendrick then dropped Robbie with a kick to pin him at 11:29.

So, now it's escape the cage between Kendrick and Max. Kendrick kept yanking Max down as Max tried to escape, then the two ended up battling on the top turnbuckle. Kendrick knocked Max off the top, then began to climb out, but Max shoved the ref into the cage and Kendrick kind of fell to the mat. Max took advantage by quickly climbing over the top of the cage and dropping to the floor to win. It's Kazarian vs. Max in the next X Title match.

WINNER: Max Buck at 13:33. The falls were just so ridiculous like a multiple-falls Cruiserweight-style match from the mid-2000s Smackdown era. The crowd had no idea who these interchangeable men were, so they sat on their hands for the most part. There was some interest in Kendrick as the underdog babyface, but that was about it. (*)

2 -- SCOTT STEINER & CRIMSON vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & MAGNUS) vs. INK, INC. (JESSE NEAL & SHANNON MOORE) vs. ERIC YOUNG & ORLANDO JORDAN

The bell sounded and EY teased climbing the cage before settling for just bouncing up and down on the top rope. Suddenly, Young and Neal had a wrestling exchange. Neal came up laughing and smiling since winning and losing isn't that important. Shannon took exception to Neal's laughter and tagged himself in to serious-it-up. The commentary made sure the match didn't stay serious with some puns related to BI and OJ. The crowd briefly chanted for Steiner as BI worked over Neal. Steiner eventually tagged in to work on Williams and Magnus. Signature moves by Steiner before Steiner and Magnus did a bit of a square dance trying to set up a corner move.

Bodies started flying before Shannon tagged himself in and mocked Steiner's signature bits. Steiner completely ignored him and kept working on Williams. Shannon repeated the bit went to work on Williams. Young then dropped his shorts to reveal "team unity" leopard-print trunks. Flashbacks to Flyin' Brian in Cincinnati and Taz dropped a Bengals reference. More helter-skelter action before Young easily climbed up, then over the cage. Meanwhile, Moore hit the Mooregasm on a member of the British Invasion for the pin.

WINNERS: Ink, Inc. at 8:51. So much unintentional comedy and little substance here. It was just all over the place. Two poorly-booked matches to start the PPV. (1/2*)

3 -- Knockouts champion MADISON RAYNE vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match -- Mickie's hair on the line

Madison brought a hair kit to the ring for the potential haircut to follow the match. After Madison delayed the start for a long time, Mickie took it right to Madison and dropped her with a swinging DDT for a quick pin in 40 seconds.

WINNER: Mickie at 0:36 to capture the Knockouts Title.

4 -- SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Pope tried to dance around the cage to avoid locking up with Joe to start the match. It worked for the first minute before Joe landed strikes, jabs, and kicks. Pope then begged off in the corner before suckering Joe in to take control. Pope tried climbing out of the cage, but Joe rammed him head-first into the side of the cage. Pope did a comedy self-crotch across the top rope to sell the force behind Joe's offense. Joe tried to follow with a running boot in the corner, but the ref was randomly standing in front of Pope, causing Joe to put on the brakes. Pope then kicked Joe in the gut to re-take control.

Joe came back with a snap suplex, then the two men came to their feet and traded bombs. Joe landed signature offense for a two count before attempting and connecting with the Muscle Buster out of the corner. Joe made a cover, but Pope got his foot on the bottom rope to break up the pin. Pope tried to climb out, but Joe grabbed Pope's trunks for a full-moon shot that got a cheap reaction. Taz didn't know what to say, so Tenay said it for him that it's not Orlando Jordan up there. Pope scored with offense, then went for the DDE in the corner, but Joe rammed Pope back-first into the side of the cage. Joe went back to the Muscle Buster and connected center ring. Joe then applied the rear naked choke and that was it.

WINNER: Joe via submission at 10:25. Decent-to-good match trying to get this PPV on-track after an awful first hour. Hopefully this means the end of the Joe-Pope feud once and for all. (**)

5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. HERNANDEZ (w/Mexican America)

The two big men didn't waste any time trading right hand bombs to start the match. Morgan followed with trademark elbow smashes out of the corner before landing a sidewalk slam for a two count. Morgan went for a corner attack, but Anarquia grabbed Morgan's foot from the outside through the camera hole. Hernandez took advantage with a corner splash to begin working on Morgan. There was a "Morgan, Morgan" chant leading to a teased comeback before Hernandez landed a big shoulder tackle that sent Morgan flying across the ring. Hernandez choked Morgan with a towel before shoving a boot to Morgan's throat.

Hernandez played to the crowd for a while as Morgan sold face-down on the mat. Hernandez acted cocky one second too long and walked into a big desperation clothesline from Morgan. Morgan then started feeling the power and came to his feet to deliver right hand blows. Morgan got the crowd into his comeback pointing to the cage and sending Hernandez face-first into the wall two times. Hernandez then responded with a big shoulder tackle for a nearfall. Morgan made another comeback and MA teased climbing into the cage, but Morgan shoved Anarquia off the cage wall. Hernandez then tried to come off the top, but Morgan blasted Hernandez with a mid-air Carbon Footprint. The announcers were wowed, then Morgan made a cover on Hernandez for the win. Post-match: Morgan celebrated on top of the cage before doing the belt-around-the-waist motion to indicate he wants the gold.

WINNER: Morgan at 8:13. Good singles match giving Morgan the presumed final victory over Hernandez in their series and setting up Morgan's re-inclusion in the title picture. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 18 2011, 01:12 pm
6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. JEFF JARRETT -- Ultra Male Rules two-out-of-three falls match

Before the match started, Karen was given the boot by ref Brian Hebner. Karen refused to leave as Jeff protested. Karen finally walked out as Jeff tried to re-focus before entering the cage. The bell sounded and Tenay noted the first fall will be decided by submission, the second by pinfall, and the potential third by escaping the cage. Angle applied a figure-four and lay on his back, and for some reason, the referee counted nearfalls. The announcers were dumbfounded trying to explain this one since the first fall is submission only. Moments later, Tenay covered for Hebner's error. Angle and Jarrett traded submission holds, then Angle slapped on the anklelock for a tap out at 4:54. Another way-too-early fall, but it could be explained by Jarrett trying to save himself for the final two falls by tapping out early.

***Angle 1, Jarrett 0***

Now for the pinfall-only second fall. Jarrett scored a very close nearfall early in the fall, then went to work on Angle before they had a double knock-down. "Angle, Angle" chant before Angle scored with a belly-to-belly suplex. Angle made a cover and Jarrett did his energy-conserving roll-the-shoulder to escape a three count. Jarrett then scored with a desperation mule kick out of the ref's line of vision, giving Jeff an opening. Jeff tried the Stroke, but Angle countered with a super-spinning Angle Slam for a close two count.

Angle then stumbled trying to climb up top for a super belly-to-belly suplex before executing the move and crunching Jarrett's face on the way down. Angle made a cover for a nearfall, then scored with a Diamond Cutter for a nearfall. Somewhere, DDP is firing up Twitter to note Angle stole his move. Greg Parks checked in that it looked like an RKO, which would be a "receipt" on WrestleMania. Moments later, Jarrett rolled up Angle with a small package and hooked the tights for the second fall at 11:27.

***Jarrett 1, Angle 1***

For the final fall, it's escape the cage. Jarrett tried to unlock the cage while fighting off Angle before successfully unlocking the door. Angle then snuck up behind Jarrett to deliver multiple German Suplexes. Jarrett was down and out, then Angle went to leave the cage. Angle was on the steps ready to leave, but decided to re-enter the cage for more punishment on Jarrett. Angle locked the cage door before putting the key down his trunks. The crowd chanted for blood and, on cue, Jarrett came up bleeding from the forehead.

Angle asked Jarrett if he wanted some more, then Jarrett tried to climb out before Angle landed right hand blows to the forehead. Both men stood on the top turnbuckle before both men crashed to the mat simultaneously. The announcers "went there" with Angle's history of neck issues. They went to a replay to show Angle nearly breaking his neck attempting a huracanrana. Angle suddenly came to life and dropped Jarrett off the top with a big Angle Slam to get the fist truly big reaction of the night. Angle decided he had enough and went to leave the cage door, but it was locked.

Angle then tried to climb over the top of the cage as Gunner came running down to ringside to swing a chair toward Angle. Angle then regrouped and perched himself on the top of the cage. The camera completely missed it as Angle went for a moonsault from the top of the cage and crashed onto Jarrett. The ref immediately checked on Angle, who sold on the mat. Steiner then came running down to yank the chair away from Gunner, who ran off. Angle went to leave through the cage door, but Karen came running down to ringside to spray something in Kurt's eyes. Ref Hebner didn't see it, but then saw Karen ringside. He was apparently now okay with Karen ringside. Kurt, blinded, then popped the ref in the face.

Jeff tried to leave through the door, but Kurt dragged him back to center ring. Karen slipped Jeff a guitar to bash over Kurt's head, though. Jeff then tried to leave, but Kurt grabbed him around the ankle again. Karen grabbed a hold of Jeff, then she slammed the cage door across Kurt's face, sending Kurt reeling across the ring. Jeff then fell out of the cage and the ref awarded Jeff the win. Post-match: Karen helped Jeff crawl across the entrance ramp as Kurt held his head selling the agony of defeat.

WINNER: Jarrett 2-1 at 22:37. The first match to get a really strong emotional investment from the crowd during that final fall, so credit Jeff and Kurt in that area. It was over-booked in classic Jeff Jarrett big match fashion and the referee incompetence was on display, as expected. This was also a scary match with Angle doing the top-of-the-cage moonsault spot. Oh, and the top-rope huracanrana botch. The risks far outweighed the benefits. At some point, TNA has to consider pulling Angle out of the ring before he kills himself. (***)

7 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. ROB VAN DAM vs. MR. ANDERSON -- Three-way TNA World Title match

The bell sounded and Anderson got in Sting's face to tell him the title belt is coming home. RVD then popped Anderson, who popcorned back and forth between right hand blows from RVD and Sting. Sting then smashed Anderson with a Stinger Splash and slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. RVD broke it up with a spin kick to cut off Sting's early offense. Moments later, Sting caught both men flat on their backs center-ring and applied a double Scorpion. It got an initial reaction, then Sting maintained the hold for a while and then it just looked weird. After that sequence, Anderson came to life and landed a double Mic Check. Sting, then RVD kicked out in time. After another sequence, all three men found themselves on the mat.

Suddenly, Hulk Hogan's music hit at 6:15. Hogan slowly marched to the ring with some sort of object over his shoulder. They cut to a shot of Hogan's family ringside. Hogan banged on the cage door, then tried to hand a pipe to RVD, who grabbed it after some reluctance. "Knock him out, brother!" Hogan said. RVD then threw the pipe into the cage door, so Anderson grabbed it and smashed it over RVD's back. Anderson flipped off Hogan and said that was for himself. Anderson forgot about Sting, who grappled Anderson to deliver the Scorpion Deathdrop. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Sting at 7:55. Weak for a top title match, but at least they slotted it in the semi-main event rather than having back-to-back weak PPV main event title matches. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 18 2011, 01:12 pm
8 -- IMMORTAL (RIC FLAIR & ABYSS & MATT HARDY & BULLY RAY) vs. FORTUNE (DANIELS & X Division champion KAZARIAN & TNA tag champions BEER MONEY) -- Lethal Lockdown match

Three-minute session to start between Abyss and Kazarian. Abyss tried to rearrange Kaz's face as Immortal shouted encouragement from the outside. Kaz took control just before 3:00 expired, which should have led to Immortal re-taking control with Hardy's entry. Well, in theory, as Kaz easily thwarted Hardy's entry and landed high-impact offense as Abyss recovered in the corner. Abyss eventually came to life and helped Hardy take the numbers advantage. Hardy slapped on the Ice Pick and Kaz faded out. Hardy eventually just released the hold since there aren't any falls in this portion of the match.

At 5:00, Daniels entered the cage to even up the match. Fortune wore down Abyss and Hardy with double-team offense before the next two minutes expired to bring in Ric Flair to a babyface reaction since the crowd just wanted to see Flair. Flair, in a black wifebeater tanktop and black dress pants, went to work on the faces with chops and low blows. Flair then thrust in Storm's face as Storm just stood there on the outside of the cage.

After another two minutes expired, Storm took a swig of beer and entered the cage. Flair begged off as Storm continued to finish his beer. Storm then bashed the gimmicked bottle over Flair's forehead. The camera followed Flair to the mat as Flair pulled out a blade and gigged himself. They cut away just before Flair swiped his forehead. Flair came up bleeding moments later and Fortune lit up Flair, whose shirt was ripped off, pants were torn, and rear end was exposed. The heels, with Bully Ray in the match, worked over Fortune before the final two minutes expired to bring in Robert Roode.

With all four men in the cage at 13:00, the roof was supposed to come down. No sign of the roof yet. The two factions traded control, specifically Roode and Flair having a chopfest exchange. Beer Money then did their Beer...Money dance as the lights flashed and the weapons-filled roof finally came down to officially start Lethal Lockdown. Fortune grabbed the weapons to start bashing Immortal. Suddenly, Abyss went flying through the cage door to the floor. Daniels followed to the outside, then Hardy went to the outside. Hardy climbed the side of the cage to the roof and Daniels followed him. Hardy, trapped, walked into a right hand from Daniels. Daniels teased Angel's Wings, but Hardy back-dropped him and Daniels nearly fell off the roof, but thankfully grabbed the side of the cage before he fell clear down to the ground below.

In the cage, Flair had been screaming for minutes as the camera focused on Daniels and Hardy. They showed why, as Flair was just drenched in blood and taking weapon shots to the head. The camera re-focused on Daniels on top of the cage, where he came flying down onto Hardy and Abyss on the floor. The crowd popped and TNA replayed the spot a few times. In the ring, Roode applied the figure-four on a bloody mess called Ric Flair. Ray broke it up, though, with a trash can shot. Ray smashed everyone with trashcan lids and kendo sticks as he took control of the match. Flair demanded more punishment. Daniels came up bleeding from the forehead and Ray taunted him. Ray told Daniels this is for his good friend, A.J.

Speaking of which...A.J. Styles's music suddenly hit and Styles came flying down the ramp into the cage. Styles smashed Ray with blows before ripping off t-shirt. Flair tried to get his hands on Styles, but Roode cut him off. Flair ate a kendo stick shot and a superkick, then Roode applied an armbar on Flair. Fortune held off Immortal and Flair tapped out, giving Fortune the win.

Post-match: Fortune celebrated in the cage as the camera captured the damage done to Immortal. In the background, Styles smashed Ray over the head with a trash can before standing tall over a fallen bully. They went to a replay video package and went back to Fortune standing tall in the cage. Tenay and Taz signed off with a question of how Immortal will react going forward after a bad night for Immortal. They signed off nine minutes before the top of the hour.

WINNERS: Team Fortune at 22:52. A lot of gimmicks that looked like a copy of a copy from the Attitude Era. Styles's return was a nice surprise for PPV customers leading to the satisfying finish with Fortune standing tall. Flair bleeding everywhere and weapon shots all over the place made for an uncomfortable main event at the end of the day. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 19 2011, 04:24 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_49391.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH -- Match for Truth's WWE Title match slot at Extreme Rules

As the announcers discussed Truth falling for the oldest trick in the book, Morrison cleared Truth to the floor. Truth then walked around to the timekeeper to get a bottle of water. He doused himself in water, then shouted "What's up?" as they cut to break.

Back from break, Cole recapped what's on the line before Ross cut off the overly-wordy Cole. Truth's chain rattled on his jeans as he bounced off the ropes before trading nearfalls with Morrison. Truth wore down Morrison as Cole heeled on the babyface announcers. Truth then wanted the Lie Detector, but Morrison avoided it. Morrison then smashed Truth with Starship Pain and it was good for a three count. Morrison gets Truth's spot at Extreme Rules.

WINNER: Morrison at 7:03. Okay match that was a complete afterthought behind the commentary. (*1/4)

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Bourne went for a turnaround splash from the second rope early in the match, but Ziggler blocked with a mid-air dropkick for a nearfall. Ziggler then choked Bourne before applying a bow & arrow submission. Bourne escaped, then fired back with kick strikes for a two count. Vickie paced nervously before Bourne went up top. He wanted Air Boruen, but Ziggler moved and followed right up with Zig-Zag. Ziggler with the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 2:12. Nice finishing sequence. The match was designed to re-focus on Ziggler, but I'm selling Ziggler's new look. Way too generic for someone who really stood out with his Curt Hennig/Billy Gunn look.

3 -- WWE champion THE MIZ & ALEX RILEY vs. JOHN CENA & SIN CARA

Cena easily cleared Riley from the ring, then the heels regrouped on the floor as the crowd chanted, "Sin Cara." WWE cut to break 45 seconds in. They returned from break one minute before the top of the hour as Ross set the stage for Cena and Sin Cara teaming together for the first time (on TV). Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Miz countered with a side slam. Cole plugged The Draft next week and wondered aloud if Cena and Miz will still be on Raw this Monday. Cole reminded Ross of his history being drafted to Smackdown. The heels isolated Cena as Cole noted he doesn't have to worry about The Draft because he's on both shows anyways. The crowd engaged in dueling chants of "Let's go Cena" and "Cena sucks" as the heels continued to work over Cena in their corner. Miz taunted Sin Cara before connecting with a running clothesline on Cena. Cena then fired back with an overhead slam and dragged himself across the ring to tag in Sin Cara.

Sin Cara landed right hand palm thrusts on Miz before scoring with a handspring elbow smash. Cara followed with more strikes on Miz before executing a double head scissors that took a lot of time to set up. Sin Cara tried a springboard smash, but Riley yanked SC down across the ring apron. The heels regained control of the match and cut off Sin Cara's initial comeback as another dueling Cena chant started up. Miz measured Sin Cara for a corner attack, but Sin Cara moved and made his way to tag in Cena. Riley also tagged in as Cena came in hot with offense for Riley. Cena brushed the dirt off his shoulder and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle to Riley. In the background, Miz retrieved his WWE Title belt and walked off. Meanwhile, Cena dropped Riley with the Attitude Adjustment. Cena then tagged in Sin Cara, who executed a springboard moonsault for the pin and the win. Cena and Sin Cara celebrated the victory, then posed in the ring.

WINNERS: Cena & Sin Cara at 10:27. Fine match setting up Cena vs. Miz (oh, and Morrison) at Extreme Rules, although it came across like the main event of a house show. There still doesn't seem to be a sense of urgency for Cena to get the title back, which isn't going to help sell the PPV. It doesn't help that Cena has 12 months to get the belt back before WrestleMania 28 against The Rock. Sin Cara needs time to get over his early WWE jitters and get his feet under him, as his offense isn't quite fluid working with new opponents in a completely new setting. (*1/2)

4 -- EVE vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Divas champion Brie Bella)

Nikki took control early, then Eve came back with offense leading to a small package for the quick win. The Bellas recovered on the outside as Eve posed in the ring.

WINNER: Eve at 1:45. Basic match building Eve's quest to get the Divas Title back.

5 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

Cole relayed Sheamus's mindset of wanting to defeat and punish the men who he lost to over the past six months during his losing streak. Sheamus blasted Santino repeatedly before applying a submission hold center ring. Santino fought back to his feet before Sheamus threw him down to the mat. More offense from Sheamus. Cole wondered about Ross's health condition before mocking Ross. Mathews joined in mocking Ross for some reason. Santino finally showed some life at 3:00 and teased The Cobra, but he was too wobbly from Sheamus's offense and stumbled across the ring. Sheamus then smashed Santino with the Brogue Kick for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 3:36. Fine squash for Sheamus to keep him on track. The announcers teased he could be on his way to Smackdown, which would be a good move to give Smackdown a relevant player and give Sheamus some new opponents to work with.

6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- WrestleMania 27 re-match

The bell sounded ten minutes before the top of the hour as the announcers noted how similar the two wrestlers are as cold, calculating, emotionless combatants. There was a loud dueling chant of "Ran-dy Or-ton" vs. C-M-Punk" as Orton stomped on Punk in the corner. Punk responded with kicks, stomps, and knees that put Orton on his back. Cue up another dueling chant before Orton fired up with clotheslines and a snap powerslam. Orton did his deal before dropping to the mat to tease the RKO, but Punk blocked by throwing Orton across the ring. They cut to break with Orton selling a head injury and Punk taking a deep breath to sell he almost lost it right there.

Back from break, Punk slammed Orton and continued to work on Orton's head. Punk continued to work over Orton as the crowd started a new dueling chant of "RKO" vs. "G2S." Punk scored a nearfall eight minutes in, then went back to work wearing down Orton. Orton eventually slipped to the outside to get a breather, but Punk cut him off with a flying clothesline on the floor. Punk sarcastically asked if he could pin Orton on the floor here. Falls Count Anywhere tease for the ER PPV? Punk rolled Orton back into the ring and measured Orton for a suplex, only to have Orton counter with a quick roll-up for a two count. Punk then came right to his feet and clotheslined Orton to resume control of the match. Punk applied a submission hold using his legs to wrap around Orton's head. Orton sold fading out, but Orton bit his way out of the hold and pounded on Punk with right hands. Punk shook it off and landed a running knee in the corner, but Orton countered a bulldog with a high-angle side suplex for a two count. Angle wanted the Angle Slam, but Punk blocked and delivered a bulldog.

Punk sold a bit of frustration and shook his hand to sell Orton's bite work earlier. Punk followed with right kicks, then Orton ducked a clothesline and delivered a trademark backbreaker into the Angle Slam for a two count. Punk rolled to the apron to recover, which drew in Orton to eat the apron with a slingshot smash. Punk then went for a springboard clothesline and connected (no mid-air RKO counter) for a two count. Punk sold more frustration, unable to put away Orton. Punk went to the second turnbuckle for a move, but Orton cut him off and set up for a big superplex. Cole noted this is how much the rivalry means to Orton. Orton with a cover, but Punk with a kickout.

Just before 15:00, Punk rolled to the apron on the opposite side of the ring. Orton saw Punk in a vulnerable position and grappled him for the big spike DDT, but Punk countered with a G2S tease. Orton slipped out, but Punk blasted him in the face with a kick strike. It was only good for a two count, which drew even more frustration form Punk. The crowd was alive now and started up another dueling chant. Punk wanted the G2S again, but Orton slipped out, then rolled up Punk and trapped Punk's neck to the mat to secure a three count for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 15:39. Nice singles match just a notch below their WrestleMania encounter. The story was nicely told, playing up Punk's frustration with his inability to get one over Orton, who continued to sell resiliency. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 24 2011, 05:12 am
WWE NXT Results: 4-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49437.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG) vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov)

Basic exchange as Regal noted neither Rookie has performed well thus far, so they both need the win here. Novak then landed some offense and tried to taunt Regal, who brushed him off and checked his nails. Moments later, O'Brian rolled up Novak and appeared to score a three count on a small package, but the ref stopped his count. Everyone kind of stopped. They reset the match and went back to the exact same spot leading to the exact same small package finish exactly one minute later to give O'Brian the win.

Afterward, JTG tried to talk up Novak to keep his head in the game. Mathews quizzed Regal on why they have so much tension, then Novak slipped out of the ring and taunted Regal. Novak eventually shoved Regal, who then threw down his headset. Novak ran off and JTG stepped in-between them before Regal could get his hands on Novak. Regal did the throat-slash gesture as JTG helped Novak away.

WINNER: O'Brian at 3:01. They're trying to get over Novak as an annoying heel, which is fine, and building toward Regal getting his hands on Novak after an extended build-up. At least it's something and it could keep Novak from being the first Rookie cut.

2 -- HORNSWOGGLE (w/Titus O'Neil) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero)

As Young stumbled around the ring, Hornswoggle kicked Young in the shins repeatedly. This is what Young's career has been reduced to. Young then took a peek as Chavo distracted the ref, giving him an opening to boot Horny in the face. Young tried a top-rope move, but Horny headbutted Young to the mat. Young shifted his body into position and Hornswoggle came off the top with a tadpole splash for the pin and the win. After a replay of the finish, Young complained to Chavo about his dumb luck.

WINNER: Hornswoggle at 1:36. Is Hornswoggle the only protected babyface they have on the roster? Just a bit for the kids trying to get that "ha-ha comedy heat" on Young that will never allow him to get over.

3 -- TYSON KIDD & LUCKY CANNON vs. YOSHI TATSU & BYRON SAXTON

Cannon and Saxton started things off, but Cannon refused to luck, demanding to get a piece of Yoshi. Saxton finally obliged tobring in Yoshi, which drew an interested look from Maryse setting a battle for her honor. Yoshi landed an early kick to the thigh, then Lucky scampered to the ring apron and tagged out to Kidd. "Shut up!" Cannon shouted at the fans who questioned his toughness. Lucky's showing something new each week. Yoshi then dominated Kidd, drawing Lucky's ire. Regal was so great with his rambling (not a negative) dry commentary about nothing that just trailed on and on. It didn't matter what he was saying; Regal's delivery was just so great.

Yoshi and Saxton tagged in and out working over Kidd as Regal noted this show is so tough for the Rookies because they have a very short window to make a connection with the crowd. Kidd then took control on Saxton as Lucky clapped it up for his Pro. Saxton then cut off Kidd and clotheslined him over the top rope, drawing a shift in emotion from Cannon. They cut to break with Cannon telling no one in particular to shut up.

Back from break, Lucky was working over Saxton while complementing his own work and making sure Maryse was paying attention. Lucky continued to work over Saxton as Regal continued with his dry commentary about nothing. The heels began trading tags working over Saxton while Lucky kept telling the crowd to shut up. As Tyson worked over Saxton, Lucky noted to Maryse that he's "Winning." He added, "Come over to the 'Winning' side." His heel delivery was terrific.

The heels resumed their in-and-out tags working over Saxton as Regal sold he was blushing after Maryse shot him a look. "This...is...all...about...me!" Lucky told Saxton in-between punches. Regal noted Kidd will take Lucky to the back afterward and go over what went right & wrong in the match like a good Pro. "Unlike JTG," Regal said, before adding he thinks JTG is untalented.

Yoshi finally took a hot tag at 10:00 and cleaned house on Kidd while Lucky stood on the apron. Yoshi scored with a roundhouse kick, but Kidd kicked out in time. Lucky then distracted Yoshi, who nearly walked into a pin from Kidd before recovering and nailing a knee to the face for a close two count. Lucky then walked over to Maryse and tried to showboat for her, which distracted Yoshi. Yoshi tried to wave off Lucky, which resulted in Yoshi turning around to take Kidd's cradle spinning neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

Afterward, Lucky talked trash in Yoshi's face before Kidd and Lucky walked away with the win. Byron checked on Yoshi as Maryse walked over to ringside selling mild concern with Yoshi. They signed off with the heels standing tall.

WINNERS: Kidd & Lucky at 11:33. Well-done for a long-form tag match. Cannon was absolutely terrific playing his heel role, Regal added a tremendous amount to commentary, and they continued to play up the love triangle that has dominated NXT this season. Nice build toward Yoshi eventually stepping up to fight for Maryse's honor. The show has deviated from the original idea to focus on the Rookies to focus more on the Pros, with the Rookies getting some shine in the process, so this was fine. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 24 2011, 05:13 am
WWE Superstars Results: 4-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_49499.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYLER REKS vs. JTG

The bell sounded and Reks remained crouched in the corner pulling his hair acting nuts. JTG squatted down to meet him eye-to-eye, which drew Reks's ire. JTG scored with an early dropkick, using the Timbalands to his advantage. Reks took a breather on the floor as the announcers discussed the Draft. Striker suggested Korpela could be drafted to Tampa (FCW). Korpela self-deprecated he hopes he's not drafted to the unemployment line. Back in the ring, Reks smashed JTG out of the corner to take control of the match. JTG momentarily regained control by dumping Reks to the floor, but Reks responded by yanking JTG across the ring apron. They cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was working over JTG in the ring. Striker continued to use his red pen to correct Korpela's commentary as Reks slowed down the pace working over JTG. JTG teased a comeback, but Reks cut him off in the corner and followed up with the Burning Hammer. That was good for a three count and the win.

WINNER: Reks at 9:18. More offense for JTG than usual working with Reks, who continues to pick up wins even if he's not being featured on Smackdown.

2 -- MARYSE vs. NATALYA

The bell sounded to start off this week's Divas action. Natalya quickly dominated the action with a surfboard stretch as Raw announcers Jack Korpela and Josh Mathews discussed Maryse's love triangle issues on NXT. Maryse then cut off Natalya to take control of the action. Maryse screamed at everyone to distract from her poor offense as Natalya guided the match. Natalya scored successive nearfalls in her comeback, then missed with a corner attack. Maryse followed with a DDT and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Maryse at 4:10. Plenty of offense for Natalya to offset the loss to a lesser opponent in terms of skill level in the ring.

3 -- TED DIBIASE vs. MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and DiBiase quickly rolled to the outside to avoid Henry, which drew boos from the London crowd. Mathews plugged this could be the final ever Henry vs. DiBiase match since the Draft could separate them. Yes, it's time to break up their epic feud. Mathews then turned his focus to no-selling Stanford's attempts at humor as DiBiase continued to avoid Henry. Henry had enough and blasted DiBiase with right hand strikes and clotheslines. Henry then took forever to set up a standing butt squash, allowing DiBiase to avoid the move. DiBiase tried to follow up, but he couldn't get Henry off his feet. Henry then flipped DiBiase over the top rope to the floor. Or "out the door," as Stanford described it. Time for a break.

Back from break, DiBiase tried to wear down Henry by going after the legs, but he couldn't score more than a one count on the big man. The crowd tried to rally behind Henry (babyface), but Stanford (babyface announcer) rallied behind DiBiase (heel), feeling bad for the guy with all of his issues with Maryse the last week. Henry then made a comeback with a vicious clothesline and measured DiBiase for a big splash, but he couldn't make it to the corner due to DiBiase's knee work. DiBiase then tried a splash from the second rope, but Henry caught DiBiase in mid-air. Henry winced to sell the leg work, then delivered the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win. Cue up Henry's post-match celebration will still selling the leg work from DiBiase. And that'll do it for Superstars.

WINNER: Henry at 8:02. Fine match closing the show on a positive note for WWE's audience with Henry overcoming DiBiase's offense to pick up a win. DiBiase could use a hard reset after the Draft.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 24 2011, 05:15 am
TNA Impact! Results: 4-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_49501.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. ROB TERRY & MURPHY -- TNA Tag Title match -- steel cage match

The match was joined in progress with the challengers working over Roode. Storm eventually took a hot tag and Terry tagged in to deliver some of the worst punches ever. The action broke down before Beer Money did their Beer...Money dance leading to the DWI on Terry for the clean pin and the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 4:04 (of what aired). Another decisive victory for Fortune over the Immortal scrubs. Fine start to the show.

2 -- Knockouts tag champions SARITA & ROSITA (w/Hernandez and Anarquia) vs. MADISON RAYNE & TARA -- Knockouts Tag Title match

The match was again joined in progress with Madison shouting instructions to Tara to continue playing up dissension. Madison distracted herself getting into it with Tara again, then the outside players distracted the ref, allowing Sarita to pin Madison. Tara stood dumbfounded on the ring apron, then more tension was teased between Tara and Madison.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita at 1:49 (of what aired) to retain the KO Tag Titles. Effective continuing to build layers of tension between Tara and Madison eventually leading to Tara going off on Madison.

3 -- ABYSS (w/Hulk Hogan) vs. ROB VAN DAM

The announcers quickly tried to recap how "personal" this feud was at the end of 2010. Right, when Abyss tried to kill RVD. Now, it's just a basic feud. RVD landed an early kick, which busted open Abyss's mouth. Lots of blood from Abyss following the tooth loss. Hogan tried to interfere against RVD, which brought RVD to the outside. The fans on the front row proceeded to cheer on Hogan (the heel) to blast RVD (the face). During the confusion, Abyss retrieved a pipe to blast RVD when RVD returned to the ring. Abyss then hit the Black Hole Slam for the win. Post-match: Abyss checked his mouth and stood over RVD trying to intimidate him some more. Abyss wanted to inflict more punishment on RVD, but some hard rock music put a stop to that. Crimson then came running to the ring to clear the heels and check on RVD.

WINNER: Abyss at 3:22. Basic match trying to re-establish Abyss as a monster, keep the RVD-Hogan issue going, and interject Crimson back into a direct feud with Immortal. Other than that, you have to wonder about TNA booking their new #1 contender, RVD, to lose here. And not only lose, but be taken advantage of by the physically-impaired Hulk Hogan, making RVD look like a dolt. Not the best way to build interest in a Sting-RVD title match on PPV.

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MATT HARDY -- TNA World Title match

The ref called for the bell when Hardy rolled Sting into the ring and Hardy quickly went to work on Sting's lower body. Hardy scored a few nearfalls, then went for a moonsault, but landed gut-first on the mat when Sting moved. Sting went for a comeback, but Hardy cut him off. They cut to break.

Back from break, Sting was trying to fight back against Hardy as they were both stumbling around the ring trading blows. Sting absorbed Hardy's big flurry of offense, then dropped Hardy face-first into the corner turnbuckle. Sting followed right up with the Scorpion Death drop and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Sting at 9:37 to retain the TNA Title. Okay match featuring two guys who shouldn't be wrestling unless it's booked to mean something based on how much mileage is on their bodies. Sting is over-exposed wrestling way too much when his in-ring appearances should be protected and treated like a big deal.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 24 2011, 05:15 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_49523.shtml) As always, condensed to in-ring results only because nobody care what happens between matches a whole lot and if you do, that's why you click the link. Duh!

1 – CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERO

Mysterio went after Cody to start, then low-bridged him out of the ring. He dropped the dime on Rhodes at ringside as they went to break a meager 30 seconds into the match.

Rhodes was on the advantage out of break, but the crowd was still with Rey. Rey sat down on a powerbomb attempt, getting him a near-fall just shy of the 5:20 mark. Back-breaker by Rhodes for two. More work on the back, but Rey set up the 619 at 6:30 of the match. Cody dodged it and the two fought on the apron. Rhdoes kicked Mysterio into the ringpost, with Mysterio’s back bouncing off and him landing at ringside. Another break was taken, just shy of seven minutes in.

Rhodes had Mysterio in a submission move as they returned to action just under 11:00 in. Scoop slam for two by Rhodes. It’s weird hearing the announcers talk about Rey trying to “intentionally hurt” Cody…aren’t we supposed to believe that these guys are really punching and kicking each other? Wouldn’t that qualify as “intentionally hurting” someone? Harping on that point just drives it honme to viewers that everything else is fake. Hard whip into the buckle by Cody on Mysterio. Rey went to the top and dropped the dime again. Cross-body got him a two-count. Sunset flip by Rey, but Mysterio countered. Rhodes rolled him up for two, but then Rey kicked him in the head for a near-fall. Rey came off the top again, but Cody dropkicked him out of mid-air. Rey kind of lurched forward and fell after the kick, which made it look less-than-smooth. Rhodes set up for Cross-Rhodes, but Rey turned it into a hurricanrana and held on to Cody’s legs for the pinfall.

WINNER: Mysterio, at 14:42. A little different than their Wrestlemania match, thanks to the fact that they got more time, and got to open up the playbook a little more, so to speak.

2 – JACK SWAGGER vs. TRENT BARRETA

Somehow, Barreta was already in the ring. Nice of him to get the spotlight to Cole prior to his match. Swagger had the advantage for the first 45 seconds, but he missed a charge and Barreta came back with a running elbow in the corner. Springboard by Barreta, but Swagger caught him and powerbombed him in one motion. Ankle-lock applied, tap-out followed.

WINNER: Swagger, at 1:14. Another fine squash for Swagger.

3 – KANE & THE BIG SHOW vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSIHP MATCH

Interesting that they have a tag title match positioned at the top of the second hour. The announcers had been pushing hard that this was Championship Night with two titles on the line. Suspiciously similar to Night of Champions. Kane went for a quick cover, then Big Show tagged in and they treated Slater rather poorly. Back to Kane, and as soon as he got an opening, he tagged out. Gabriel caught a right hand in the chops, then got squashed in the corner. Kane went to the top, possibly for his clothesline, but Zeke pushed him off the top rope. Slater provided the distraction for the ref, then capitalized by keeping Kane on the ground. Front chancery applied by Gabriel. Gabriel countered a side slam and got a near-fall. Slater tagged in and found no success. Kane made the hot tag at 3:20 and Show cleaned house on Slater. He signaled for a chokeslam. He stopped Gabriel in his tracks and tossed him into Zeke. Kane took Jackson out when he protested, then Show chokeslammed Slater and picked up the win.

WINNERS: Show & Kane, at 4:02. This could be used as more ammunition for a Corre break-up, but it could’ve been done to get Kane and Show, two top-tier utility players, on Raw as well. But with the Draft coming up, who knows.

4 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Cole speculated that either of these guys could get drafted to Raw on Monday. McIntyre, from the apron, sent Masters head-first into the buckle, but Masters came back by nailing McIntyre. Mac hot-shotted Masters over the top rope, then got a cover back in the ring. Only two, though. Hard uppercut by McIntyre for a near-fall. He set Masters up for the DDT, but Masters surprised him with an inside cradle for two. Sky High by Masters for another near-fall at 2:20. Masters went to the middle rope and downed McIntyre with a jumping shoulderblock. Crowd was not into him at all. Masterlock attempted, but McIntyre used the corner to flip out. He grabbed Masters and executed a beautiful Future Shock DDT for the win.

WINNER: McIntyre, at 3:36. Most of this match was used as fodder for the announcers to talk about the Draft.

5 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. WADE BARRETT – WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

No home cooking for Barrett here, unless WWE production is covering it up. Kingston missed a charge in the corner as Barrett elbowed him down. Barrett was on the outside, and Kingston flipped over and kicked Barrett through the ropes. Barrett took a cross-body off the top like a MAN on the outside, falling back first on the mat. They cut to break about 1:25 in. I thought I was going to have to juggle covering this match and watching Anibal Sanchez’s ninth inning for the Marlins online, since he had a no-hitter going, but he gave it up on the first pitch. So this match has my full attention!

Back with Barrett in control, and they showed how he did it during the break. Low-bridge sent Barrett over the top rope. Kofi went out to get him but Zeke Jackson, who came to ringside with Barrett, charged at Kofi. Kofi moved, and Jackson hit Barrett. How did the ref not see that? Back in the ring, Barrett and Jackson argued (but not about an auto auction), and Jackson walked to the back. Small package by Kingston back in the ring, for a two-count. Kingston went into his finishing sequence and set up for Trouble in Paradise. He missed, and Barrett got Kingston on his shoulders. He set Kofi on the top rope. Kofi came down in a roll-up, but Barrett sat down and grabbed the middle rope for leverage, picking up the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 8:30.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 26 2011, 01:47 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49562.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and WWE Draft picks..

1 -- RAW vs. SMACKDOWN BATTLE ROYAL

As red and blue-shirted bodies battled in the ring, Mathews noted the winning brand member will obtain two Draft picks for his brand. The announcers played up the fake brand alliance bit that WWE only plays up during the Draft and Bragging Rights PPV. Smackdown lost Kane over the top rope, then Khali and Big Show battled. Team Smackdown proceeded to gang up on Khali to drop him over the top rope. Then, they ran into the predicament where Bourne saved Sheamus from elimination despite Sheamus beating up Bourne recently. Quite the mess.

Henry and Brodus eliminated each other simultaneously. Big Show was the last giant left in the battle royal as he worked on Sheamus, who looked like Ronald McDonald with the bright red t-shirt on. Mason Ryan then tried to get a piece of Big Show, who headbutted him away. The announcers reminisced about past Draft moments while the wrestlers teased some eliminations. They cut to break only seven minutes into the match with the battle royal down to seven or eight men.

Back from break, Lawler was mid-sentence as the same number of men were still in the ring. Four from Raw and four from Smackdown. McIntyre was out next from Smackdown. Show then comically stopped The Cobra to eliminate him. Some rapid-fire eliminations ensued to arrive at a Final Four of Show and Kofi from Smackdown vs. Mason and Bourne from Raw. Bourne and Kofi paired off while Show and Ryan paired off. Bourne and Kofi delivered strong athleticism teasing eliminations before they were both saved. Show then caught Bourne in mid-air and dropped him over the top rope.

Ryan was the last man for Raw. He stumbled around the ring, not looking very good in the process. Show then hand-planted Ryan over the top rope, giving Show and Kofi the win. The crowd, which doesn't care about the artificial Raw vs. Smackdown split, cheered for Show and Kofi. Show and Kofi celebrated leading to the Draft Picks.

WINNER: Show & Kingston (Smackdown) at 13:05. Above-average battle royal for TV with the crowd hot for the action. (*1/2)

Cue up the random generator to deliver the first pick...

Draft Pick #1: John Cena going to Smackdown.

2 -- EVE vs. LAYLA

The winning brand gets one Draft pick. Cole sarcastically noted he's so thankful Eve is representing Raw. After Layla came to the ring, Michelle McCool stomped out selling disdain for Layla. They cued up a clip from Smackdown showing McCool attacking Layla from behind during couple's therapy. McCool distracted Layla as Cole got on the mic and heeled on the match. Eve then rolled up Layla for a quick pin as Cole continued to cut a promo. He noted he's going to make an example of Jim Ross tonight. Cole said, "Mr. WrestleMania has left ringside." Lawler said Raw just won a Draft pick and all they're hearing is Cole run his mouth. Ringside, Layla attacked McCool and ran her into the barricade. Layla then threw over the announce table and both of them cried over the end of their relationship.

WINNER: Eve at 0:35.

Draft Pick #2: Rey Mysterio is coming back to Raw.

3 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Sheamus went after Kingston early on with aggressive offense. They're already bringing the two brands together next week, as the announcers noted everyone (Raw, Smackdown, fans) are invited to The Rock's birthday celebration next week on Raw. Kingston scored a close nearfall with a top rope cross-body block, but Sheamus came back with a hard lariat. Sheamus then teased the High Cross, then the Brogue Kick, but Kingston avoided both. Kingston followed with Trouble in Paradise and it was good for the win. Backstage, the Smackdown brand did Kofi's boom-boom hand clap to celebrate.

WINNER: Kingston at 2:23. There goes Sheamus's momentum with a quick loss. Good action for a short match. (*1/4)

Draft Pick #3: Randy Orton to Smackdown.

4 -- "SIR" MICHAEL COLE (w/Jack Swagger) vs. JIM ROSS (w/Jerry Lawler)

It was like NXT with Swagger on the apron and Lawler on the opposite apron. Cole mockingly said he wanted a sumo match, playing up his fat joke routine. Cole then smacked his belly like he was playing the drums and went back to pacing the ring. Cole talked strategy with Swagger before playing with Ross's mid-section. Ross swung at Cole and missed. Cole then slipped out of the ring and asked for Ross's cowboy hat. Cole put the hat on and paraded around the ring happy with himself. Ross shook his head before Cole re-entered the ring and stomped on Ross's hat. Ross no-sold and paced around the ring some more. Swagger then toweled off Cole before Cole did a push-up.

The two men finally locked up and Ross shoved Cole to the mat. Cole demanded a time-out as Swagger pulled out a stool for Cole to sit down and take a breather. Swagger was done toweling off Cole and stepped out of the ring to loud boos. Cole and Ross locked up again and Cole went for a scoop slam, but Ross fell on top of Cole and landed big right hand blows. Huge pop for Ross landing right hand blows. Cole then escaped and slipped to the outside to check his mouth. He didn't get too far away, as Lawler rolled Cole back into the ring. Ross landed some more right hand blows as Swagger rammed Lawler into the ringpost on the floor. Swagger then scampered into the ring and attacked Ross to draw a DQ.

WINNER: Ross via DQ at 4:33. WWE gave away a lot of physicality and part of the pay-off seeing Cole get whipped before the PPV, but they also showed Ross is physically capable of holding up his end of the bargain in the ring. The crowd being hot for the segment helped out. (n/a)

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Mathews noted this match is worth two draft picks. Lawler noted Ross busted open his knuckles, then tried selling the tag match at the PPV. The match quickly moved to the outside where Ziggler landed a dropkick sending Orton over the barricade to the front row. They teased a count-out as Orton slid back into the ring just before ten. Orton came in hot on Ziggler with right hand blows, then hit the Angle Slam for a two count. Orton proceeded to enter RKO mindset as the crowd exploded wanting the RKO. Ziggler escaped via a distraction from Vickie, then walked right into the RKO. Orton with the pin for the win. Smackdown gets two more picks.

WINNER: Orton at 3:24. Decisive win for Orton that easily could have been obtained without throwing Ziggler out there to take the loss. With Smackdown getting another set of picks, it makes you wonder if they're going to flip the revised rosters. (*)

Draft Pick #4: Mark Henry to Smackdown.

Draft Pick #5: Sin Cara to Smackdown.

6 -- Intercontinental champion WADE BARRETT vs. REY MYSTERIO -- non-title match

The announcers stressed the pressure on Rey to pick up the win for Raw. Why should he feel any loyalty to the Raw brand? It's the oddest thing trying to artificially create "brand loyalty." Barrett worked over Rey early in the match, driving a knee to his back. It's also backwards how the announcers are saying the Raw wrestlers are unhappy with their roster being decimated. Shouldn't they be excited because there are fewer competitors for spots and they could rise up the ladder? Barrett walked into the 619, then Rey hit a springboard splash to score a three count on the IC champ.

WINNER: Mysterio at 2:31. Another mid-card champion pinned clean in less than three minutes. (*)

Draft Pick #6: Big Show back to Raw.

Draft Pick #7: Alberto Del Rio to Raw.

7 -- WWE champion THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) & C.M. PUNK & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN CENA & CHRISTIAN & MARK HENRY

Christian and Miz started things off as the four-man announce team talked over each other. Cole vowed to "get Extreme" on Ross on Sunday, then Cena tagged in and Miz high-tailed it out of the ring, not wanting anything to do with Cena. Cena smirked down at Miz, who recovered on the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Miz or Cena could be heard calling a spot as the announcers were delayed re-setting the show. Cena made a comeback on Punk, then brought Punk into the babyface Smackdown corner to punish him. Christian teased the Killswitch on Punk, but Del Rio caused a distraction, giving Punk an opening to smash Christian with a boot to the face. Del Rio took advantage of his weakened foe to tag in and wear down Christian. The heels began tagging in and out working over Christian. Orton and Ed Harris then ominously flashed on the screen as part of a graphic plugging the latest WWE Studios movie out Friday. The announcers hyped The Rock's birthday party next week on Raw as the heels continued to work over Christian. Del Rio then lost control on Christian, who nailed a textbook Tornado DDT. All four men on the apron went nuts looking for a tag. After a dramatic build, Miz and Cena took the tags. Cena set up Miz for his signature offense, but Mark Henry suddenly blasted his teammate, Cena, with a clothesline. Henry then press-slammed Christian onto the ring steps and stared at his work. Back in the ring, Miz stalked Cena from behind and dropped him with the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz with the cover and it was good for the win. Raw gets the final pick tonight.

WINNERS: Team Miz at 11:20.

Draft Pick #8: John Cena back to Raw.

Supplemental Draft tomorrow at noon EST on WWE's website.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 27 2011, 08:15 am
Supplement draft took place at WWE.com. earlier today and here are the results:

Raw gets:

Rey Mysterio
Big Show
Alberto Del Rio
Jack Swagger
Kelly Kelly
JTG
Drew McIntyre
Curt Hawkins
Chris Masters
Kofi Kingston
Tyler Reks
Beth Phoenix

SmackDown gets:

Randy Orton
Mark Henry
Sin Cara
Daniel Bryan
The Great Khali
Jimmy Uso
Alicia Fox
William Regal
Yoshi Tatsu
Natalya
Jey Uso
Ted DiBiase
Tyson Kidd
Tamina
Alex Riley
Sheamus

The order of the draft was:

From WWE RAW last night:
1) John Cena to SmackDown
2) Rey Mysterio to Raw
3) Randy Orton to SmackDown
4) Mark Henry to SmackDown
5) Sin Cara to SmackDown
6) Big Show to Raw
7) Alberto Del Rio to Raw
8) John Cena to Raw

From the Supplement Draft:
9) Daniel Bryan to SmackDown
10) Jack Swagger to Raw
11) The Great Khali to SmackDown
12) Jimmy Uso to SmackDown
13) Kelly Kelly to Raw
14) JTG to Raw
15) Alicia Fox to SmackDown
16) William Regal to SmackDown
17) Yoshi Tatsu to SmackDown
18) Drew McIntyre to Raw
19) Natalya to SmackDown
20) Curt Hawkins to Raw
21) Chris Masters to Raw
22) Jey Uso to SmackDown
23) Kofi Kingston to Raw
24) Ted DiBiase to SmackDown
25) Tyson Kidd to SmackDown
26) Tamina to SmackDown
27) Tyler Reks to Raw
28) Alex Riley to SmackDown
29) Beth Phoenix to Raw
30) Sheamus to SmackDown
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 28 2011, 12:10 pm
WWE NXT Results: 4-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49606.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero)

The announcers noted Titus is undefeated thus far on NXT. Titus quickly dominated, using his power to overpower Young. Young then trapped Titus inside the ring apron a la Finlay to take control of the match. Back in the ring, the crowd got behind Titus a bit and Titus made a comeback with a sidewalk slam. Titus dragged himself on top of Young for a cover, resulting in a nearfall. Young then came back and slapped on a figure-four. In Flair Country! The audacity. The crowd woke up a bit with some Whoos, then Chavo tried shouting instructions to Young, who became agitated with Chavo. Young then walked across the ring right into Titus's lift-up bomb finisher for the pin and the win. Titus really sold the effects post-match.

WINNER: Titus at 4:05. More tension between Chavo and Young, and another W for Titus, who should find himself in the finals of this show...whenever that is.

Up next: Kozlov & O'Brian vs. Novak & JTG.

2 -- JTG & JACOB NOVAK vs. KOZLOV & CONOR O'BRIAN

O'Brian and Kozlov ran over Novak with an early shoulder block that sent Novak to the floor. Grisham asked Regal to discuss JTG, prompting Regal to call him "quite possibly the worst person in WWE. A waste of space." Grisham acted stunned by the comment as they went to break.

After the word from Kong, they returned with JTG being worked over by Conor. Regal said it's not like JTG doesn't have talent, but he doesn't apply any of his talent. He said the prevalent thought used to be that his "former tag partner" was holding him back, but that's not the case. JTG made a come back on Conor and tagged out to Novak, who wore down Conor. Meanwhile, Regal vowed to turn Novak into a vegetable next week. Conor eventually broke free to tag in Kozlov, who cleaned house on Novak.

Kozlov landed multiple head butts followed by a powerslam. JTG broke up a pin, then Kozlov head butted him out of the ring to a pop. For some reason, Kozlov tagged out to O'Brian, who walked right into a big Timbaland boot to the face from Noval. It was good for the win. Afterward, Regal said that was impressive. Novak then taunted Regal ahead of their match next week.

WINNERS: JTG & Novak at 6:42. More focus on Team Novak this week, although the match didn't offer much substance. Fine set up for Regal vs. Novak next week, though. Conor looks like the first one to go this season barring something drastic changing.

3 -- BYRON SAXTON (w/Yoshi Tatsu) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

Lucky reluctantly slipped into the ring, unhappy that Maryse didn't believe him. Lucky then screamed at Yoshi, who shouted back from the ring apron. Saxton took it to the easily-distracted Cannon before Cannon came back with a boot to the head. Grisham brought up the Royal Wedding and Regal noted he had his invitation sent back. Cannon continued to wear down Saxton as Grisham noted Kidd and Yoshi were both drafted to Smackdown today.

Saxton made a comeback at 4:00 and landed a boot to the face for a nearfall. Saxton then tried a roll-up and scored another two count. Saxton followed with an arm-wringer into a slam and Kidd put Cannon's foot on the bottom rope to break up a count. Yoshi then came around to ringside to attack Kidd for getting involved. Yoshi suddenly found himself in the ring with Cannon and he jumped him, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Yoshi blasted away on Cannon before Saxton grappled him and landed a finisher on his own Pro. Next, Cannon grappled Saxton from behind and delivered his finisher. Cannon was the last man standing with Kidd. Cannon shot Maryse a look as Maryse tried to digest everything that happened. Cannon and Kidd stood tall in the ring, which Regal said that's what matters. Grisham plugged Regal vs. Novak next week as Cannon continued to flaunt for Maryse. End show.

WINNER: Cannon via DQ at 5:37. Good, intense end to the show playing up the now-weekly storylines on NXT. The bit with Maryse's purse was juvenile and quite silly, but it was fine for advancing the juvenile love triangle with Maryse, Cannon, and Yoshi.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 28 2011, 12:10 pm
Ross updates status for Extreme Rules (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_49627.shtml)

Quote
WWE announcer Jim Ross says the X-ray results on his injured hand were "not overly encouraging" following his match with Michael Cole on Monday's Raw.

"My right hand is somewhat banged up and the X-rays were not overly encouraging Tuesday but it won't keep me from doing what I need to do on Sunday at Extreme Rules," Ross said in his latest blog on jrsbarbq.com, confirming he will still be part of the tag match with Jerry Lawler against Cole and Jack Swagger at the PPV.

Ross said his other concern is a potential infection after Cole's tooth went to the bone of the knuckle of his right hand.

"(It) caused bleeding from my hand and his lip for those that have asked. Apparently the risk of infection from a human tooth IE a bite or something like what occurred Monday night is potentially harmful so we've been very careful with the infection aspect of the 'wound' in addition to caring for a sore hand," Ross said.

C.M. Punk could be gone from WWE in a few months, reportedly not interested in re-signing (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_49598.shtml)

Quote
WWE wrestler C.M. Punk could be gone from WWE by summertime, potentially creating another hole on WWE's dwindling roster of full-time stars.

Punk is considering not renewing his contract when it comes due in a few months, reports PWInsider.

Punk has reportedly turned down a long-term offer because of burn-out from the schedule and not being featured prominently in WWE storylines.

Chris Jericho teases potential appearance at Extreme Rules PPV Sunday night in Tampa (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_49633.shtml)

Quote
Chris Jericho teased a potential appearance at WWE's Extreme Rules PPV this Sunday in Tampa, Fla. since he no longer has to rehearse for "Dancing with the Stars" following his elimination on Tuesday.

"For the first time in 8 weeks I dont have dance rehearsals. What am I going to do with myself now? Anythin goin on in Tampa this weekend...?" Jericho posted on Twitter Wednesday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2011, 02:39 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 4-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_49663.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta scored an early nearfall before settling into a headlock. Korpela opined that he believes Sin Cara is Smackdown's biggest acquisition. He then plugged The Rock's birthday next Monday on Raw and posed the question of whether Cena will be involved. Kidd and Trent continued to wear each other down as Striker continued to amplify Korpela's commentary, instructing him in the WWE ways on the fly. Barreta then missed with a splash near the ropes and Kidd dropkicked him to the floor. Barreta sold injured ribs as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was wearing down Barreta in the ring. Kidd then focused his attack on Barreta's mid-section as the announcers talked up the Del Rio vs. Christian title match at the PPV on Sunday. Barreta teased a comeback seven minutes in, then went for a springboard dropkick and connected. Barreta crawled over to Kidd for a cover, but he kicked out in time. Both men struggled to their feet and Barreta went for his Dudebuster DDT finish, but Kidd threw Barreta away and landed a kick to the gut. Barreta then followed up with a clothesline sending Kidd over the top rope to the floor. Next was a big dive clear over the top rope to the floor that floored both men.

Back in the ring, Barreta tried to score a pin, but Kidd kicked out in time. Barreta slowly tried to pick up Kidd, who kicked him in the face and scored successive nearfalls. Kidd sold frustration unable to put away Barrett, then took him up top for a huracanrana, but Barrett countered in mid-air with a huracanrana for a nearfall. Kidd tried to follow right up with the Sharpshooter and he was able to turn Barreta over to force a tap out due to Kidd's work earlier in the match. Kidd picks up a win in a solid TV match.

WINNER: Kidd at 10:58. Really nice match. Nice back-and-forth at the end of the match after they laid the foundation in the first-half. (**)

2 -- D.H. SMITH vs. ZACK RYDER

Stanford talked up Ryder and Mathews told Stanford he only likes him because Ryder puts him on his YouTube show. Ryder and Smith grappled on the mat, trading headlocks and holds as Stanford talked up the Draft. Mathews read some canned lines about the Draft being a place for new beginnings and new opportunities for each and every WWE Superstar and Diva. Ryder informed the audience he had Smith right where he wanted him, then Smith countered a headlock into an armdrag takedown.

Ryder escaped, then tried to beg off in the corner, but Smith hip-tossed him across the ring. Smith followed with a big belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall. Next was Smith's trademark delayed vertical suplex for a two count. Smith then clotheslined Ryder over the top rope and shouted to the crowd that he was owning this match. Smith rolled Ryder back into the ring, but Ryder caught him with a shoulder tackle into the ringpost. Ryder followed with a dropkick knocking Smith to the floor as they cut to break.

Back from break, Ryder landed a "Broski Boot" to the face in the corner for a nearfall. Ryder followed with a snap neckbreaker for another two count. Ryder showed his frustration, then settled into a crossface looking to wear down Smith. Ryder became agitated with the ref and told him it's one...two...three. Ryder followed with a "Call Me" shout-out followed by a dropkick for another two count. Ryder threw up the LI and wanted a finisher, but Smith countered with a backslide for a nearfall. Ryder then cut him off and resumed his mat-based attack. Stanford continued to drop random references, drawing chuckles from Mathews.

Ryder decided to take it up, but Smith crotched him. Smith wanted a superplex and he connected from way up top. Both men sold the effects as the match reached the nine-minute mark. Smith then ran over Ryder with clotheslines followed by a big boot. Smith suddenly busted out a dance move, shaking his hips for the crowd, and delivered a running leg drop for a two count. Ryder then came back with a small package and Smith came back with a small package. Smith with a powerslam for a nearfall, then he dragged Ryder across the ring looking for the Sharpshooter, but Ryder kicked him in the gut. Ryder measured Smith and nailed the Rough Ryder center-ring. Ryder with the cover and the win.

WINNER: Ryder at 10:39. Nice, nice match. I'm not sure about Smith's Cowboy hat and Elvis-like moves, but he showed some new-found intensity in the ring to match Ryder, who has found that "it" factor and looks like money in the ring. Some real quality singles action on Superstars this week. (**1/4)

3 -- NATALYA & GAIL KIM vs. MELINA & ALICIA FOX

The heels isolated Natalya early in the match, including some unique submission holds working over Natalya's mid-section. Gail tagged in, prompting Stanford's customary "House of Fire" call anytime a hot tag is made to a babyface. The action broke down, then Gail delivered Eat Defeat on Fox for the pin and the win. Stanford signed off with a plug for Smackdown, Extreme Rules, and Rock's birthday party as the babyfaces celebrated in the ring to close the show.

WINNER: Gail & Natalya at 4:16. Fine main event tag match giving the babyfaces a win to close out this week's show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2011, 02:47 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 4-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_49671.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1--- ANGELINA LOVE vs. VELVET SKY

Taz said that the match was supposed to be later in the night as a referee ran down to the ring and they went to break.

After a five-minute commercial break, Angelina was dispassionately beating Velvet Sky in the corner. Angelina no-sold a comeback attempt by Velvet as Winter cheered her on from ringside. Velvet was down and struggling as Angelina first tried to pull her hair out before gouging her eyes.

Velvet got back to her feet and attempted a comeback but Angelina continued to dispassionately no-sell the offensive moves before planting Velvet with a running clothesline. Angelina crawled over to Velvet and choked her until the referee broke up the choke after a five count. No pin attempts here, just some chokes and a couple of big mounted punches. The crowd tried to will Velvet back into the match but Angelina kept dominating.

Velvet took advantage of the referee distracting Angelina by hitting a facebuster and a bulldog, the first time that Angelina sold any offense. As Angelina was down, Velvet leaned through the ropes to yell at Winter, who raked her eyes and hit a neckbreaker on the second rope. This allowed Angelina to hit the Botox Injection on Velvet.

Angelina did the slow crawl over to Velvet before looking to Winter for guidance. Winter did the Undertaker throat-slash and Love locked in the same modified choke hold that Winter used previously. Velvet faded and passed out and the referee stopped the match as Taz yelled for the bell to be rung as Velvet was clearly unconscious.

WINNER: Angelina Love in 9:00 (4:30 Televised)

Angelina refused to let go of the move afterwards until Winter came into the ring. Winter then guided her out of the ring and up the ramp with a wave of her finger.

2 – ANARQUIA (w/Mexican America) vs. CHRIS SABIN

Sabin was introduced as half of the Motor City Machineguns. That’s nice to see since TNA had mentioned they were going to compete as singles wrestlers. Anarquia jumped Sabin as he was keeping an eye on Hernandez and hit a big palm slap in the corner before stomping Sabin’s face.

The announcers put over the speed vs. power aspect of the match as Sabin hit a few high-impact move before Sabin hit an athletic springboard onto Anarquia. Uh oh, Sabin twisted his knee as he landed. They ran a replay and it looked bad from the angle shown. Anarquia rolled up Sabin quickly for the win.

WINNER: Anarquia in 2:00.

After the match, they picked up Sabin gingerly and made him stare at the giant Mexican flag. Motor City’s music played and out charged Alex Shelley, making his return after months of inaction. He cleared the ring and went to hit Anarquia with his belt but Rosita jumped in the way. Anarquia escaped by tossing tiny Rosita at Shelley and Mexican America retreated up the ramp.

3 --- TV champion GUNNER vs. DANIELS -- TV Title match

Gunner was put over by the announcers as Hulk & Bischoff’s “Ace in the Hole,” having apparently never let them down. Gunner dominated early as the crowd got behind Daniels, who managed to fight back as Taz informed the audience that Gunner has an extensive military background. A running knee to Daniels’ midsection allowed Gunner to take control.

However, Daniels surprised him with a crucifix pin that was good for a two count. However, it didn’t last long as Gunner hit two more knees to the gut and locked in a sitting bear hug. Daniels fought his way out but Gunner hit a front face suplex onto Daniels for his first two count of the match.

At the 3:00 mark, Gunner hit some big punches in the corner as he was put over as Immortal’s Blue Chipper. He charged the corner but Daniels slithered out of the way and hit a lifted foot to the chest before hitting a clothesline/legsweep combo. Daniels hit a huge overhand powerslam off of the top rope for a two count near fall.

Daniels set up for the Angel’s Wings but Gunner fought out of it as Tenay claimed it was good scouting on Gunner’s part. Gunner hit a few big shoulder thrusts in the corner before trying to put Daniels on his shoulders for some sort of big move. However, Daniels fought out and hit a chokeslam that set him up for the B.M.E.

But Gunner moved and Daniels landed on his feet. As he charged Gunner in the corner, Daniels was thrown over the top turnbuckle and hit his head on the ring post. This made the third time onto Gunner’s shoulders the charm as he tossed Daniels to his side and hit a powerful DDT for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: Gunner in 5:00 to retain the TV Championship.

4 --- SAMOA JOE vs. CRIMSON

Taz’s incredible powers of foresight came through at the bell as Crimson charged across the ring and landed some early punches before the two men traded back and forth in the middle of the ring before Crimson hit a boot to Joe’s face. After an attempted submission from Crimson, Joe hit a high running boot before throwing Crimson into the corner and hitting his combo enziguiri move for a two count.

Crimson fought back with an exploder suplex before leveling Joe with a spinning neckbreaker for a two count. Crimson tried to pick Joe up for a body slam but he couldn’t. Joe tried for a high kick but Crimson moved and hit a suplex followed by a knee drop for a two count.

Joe and Crimson then traded blows before Crimson charged Joe in the corner, promptly receiving a big uranage that forced Crimson to climb out of the ring to regroup. Joe tried for a running move but Crimson hit an elbow that stopped his momentum. However, Abyss charged down to the ring and jumped Crimson as the ref rang the ball.

RESULT: Match Thrown Out in 4:00.

Joe and Abyss stared each other down for a moment before Joe shrugged his shoulders and walked off. Abyss slammed Crimson into the ring steps before throwing him into the ring and hitting him with the Black Hole Slam. Tenay & Taz were way too excited about Abyss dominating a guy with a ‘winning streak.’

5--- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MR. ANDERSON vs. BULLY RAY -- TNA World Title match

Bully Ray dominated in the early going, keeping both Sting and Mr. Anderson down before hitting a big side slam on Sting for a two count. However, Anderson came in and kicked Ray in the head before hitting his own side slam on Sting for another two count. As Sting was down in the ring, Ray and Anderson glared at each other before exchanging punches.

But they forgot about Sting, who clotheslined them both before tossing Anderson out of the ring. Sting went to bounce of the ropes and attack Ray but Anderson jumped up and hit him in the back, leading to a big boot to the face from Bully Ray. Anderson then foolishly tried to climb to the top turnbuckle but Ray threw him down and got a two count before the match went to break at 3:00.

After a four-minute commercial, the match returned with a nearfall two count for Bully Ray on Anderson. Sting was out at ringside and Taz informed the audience that Ray dominated throughout the break. The announcers compared Gunner’s effectiveness with Ray’s value to Immortal as Anderson had to grab the bottom rope to avoid a three count.

Ray continued to dominate as he and Anderson were the focus of most of the action as Sting was down in a corner receiving periodic kicks to keep him down. Anderson finally recovered to hit a pair of clotheslines followed by his swinging neckbreaker move for a two count.

At this point, Sting finally got back to his feet and lit up Anderson before hitting him with the Stinger Splash. Ray went to hit them both but Sting moved and Anderson took the brunt of a second running move in the corner. Sting tried to catch Ray napping but Ray moved and the ref took the brunt of the Stinger Splash instead. Taking advantage of Sting’s concern for the ref, Ray leveled him with a clothesline.

Realizing that the ref was down, Ray grabbed the pipe and decked Sting in the gut, telling the audience that the blow was for Hogan. Suddenly, A.J. Styles came into the picture and hit his Pele Kick on Ray. This allowed Sting to pick up the lead pipe and clock Ray in the head with it. A backup ref eventually came to the ring to count the pinfall.

WINNER: Sting in 10:00 (6:00 televised).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2011, 02:53 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_49693.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JACK SWAGGER vs. SIN CARA

They showed Cara attacking Swagger on Smackdown three weeks ago. They had some weird lighting during the match, orange and blue, with the house lights dimmed. Swagger put the hurt on Cara to start, and when he had him face-down on the mat, he did push-ups on his back. Cara took a chest-first bump into the turnbuckle on an Irish whip. He got bodyslammed, but Cara got his knees up on a Vader Bomb attempt. Cara did his handspring back-elbow, and a headscissors take-over. At 2:40, Cara kicked Swagger in the head from the apron. Springboard, but Cara landed on his feet. He kicked Cara in the head, and you can tell Cara sells differently than the other WWE guys. Swagger was handed an international object by Cole, but Cara got on Swagger’s shoulders and connected with a victory roll for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 3:20. Looked like there were some communication issues here, but they finished on a nice note.

Cole yelled at Swagger, who charged at Cara. Cara low-bridged Swagger to the outside, then landed a springboard cross-body with nice hang time.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. KANE & THE BIG SHOW – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Slater barely avoided Show’s big offense early, and Gabriel nailed Show with a dropkick off the top rope. He went for a cover :35 in, but Show kicked out and sent Gabriel outside the ring. They went to break :50 in.

Back at the 5:31 mark as Show powered out of another cover. Gabriel turned a chokeslam into a DDT for a two-count as Cole sold the fact that Corre had a good chance here. Kane finally tagged in around 7:00 in, and gave a big boot (that showed a lot of light) to Slater for two. Side slam for two. Kane positioned Slater for a chokeslam, then Gabirel too. the match broke down and Show grabbed Gabriel for near stereo chokeslams. Kane got Slater up and down for the chokeslam, and made the pin.

WINNERS: Show and Kane, at 8:18. It went eight minutes, but we saw only a bit more than three minutes.

3 – REY MYSTERIO vs. MARK HENRY

Henry came out smiling, as if he never attacked John Cena this past Monday. Henry got the mic and said it’s unfortunate that Rey’s farewell will be his debut. Mysterio kicked at Henry’s legs, but Henry grabbed him and choked him in the ropes. Rey had to go to ringside to recover. He took his time to get back into the ring and kicked Henry in the face on the way back in. Rey slid under Henry’s legs, but Henry flattened Rey with his upper torso. He dragged Rey to the ropes and stepped on his chest. Rey tried to kick his way back into the match, but Henry slugged him in the back of the head. Rey was thrown under the bottom rope and outside the ring. When Henry went outside, Rey kicked at his knee. Henry charged at Rey but missed, and toppled over the ring steps. They took a break 2:30 into the contest.

Back to the show at about the six minute mark. Rey went to the top, but Henry crotched him. Henry toyed with Rey a bit and he slammed Rey into the buckle at 7:35. Rey came back and did a seated splash on Henry, getting a two-count at 8:25. Rey set Henry up for the 619, and it connected. Henry was on rubber leg street, but Cody Rhodes came out as Rey set up for his springboard. Rhodes went on the attack, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Mysterio, via DQ, at 8:48. Henry looked dominant and got the win, but Rey didn’t lose much since it was by DQ.

Rhodes continued dishing out a beating, going into the crowd to do so. Eventually, Rey found his way back into the ring, and was given the World’s Strongest Slam. Rhodes again put a paper bag mask over Rey’s face.

4 – MICHELLE MCCOOL vs. LAYLA

It’s a Divas match, but given the amount of TV time these two have gotten in the past two years or so, I’m surprised this match didn’t get more hype. The ladies took the lock-up all the way outside the ring. McCool whipped Layla into the barricade and the two continued brawling there. Kick to the face by McCool, but at nine, she didn’t try to get back into the ring. Instead, she went back for more.

WINNER: Double count-out, at :53. Well, that’s why they didn’t advertise it I guess.

Referees broke up the brawl after the match. Layla got a mic and asked for a no-DQ match at the PPV. McCool accepted the match, noting Layla would be nothing without her. McCool wanted one more condition – loser leaves WWE. Wow, the pickup on that was really obvious. Layla accepted. That's one "loser leaves town" stipulation I hope doesn't stick.

5 – ALBERTO DEL RIO & BRODUS CLAY vs. CHRISTIAN & RANDY ORTON

The babyfaces made their entrances out of break. Del Rio appeared to start things off, but deferred to Clay. Clay and Christian locked up and Clay took Christian down, then pie-faced him. Springboard sunset flip attempt, but Clay blocked it. Christian ran into a headbutt to the chest. Del Rio came in and worked the arm of Christian. Orton tagged in just shy of 3:00 into things, and he connected on his jumping knee-drop. Snap mare and another knee-drop. The audio sweetener liked those moves. They went to break at 3:33 of the match.

Back about 7:00 in. Clay had Orton down, then tagged out to Del Rio. Orton and Del Rio both made tags at 8:33. Christian rocked Clay, but couldn’t get him off his feet. Finally, he landed a missile dropkick off the middle rope. That did the job. Behind the ref’s back, Del Rio kicked Christian in the head to soften him up. Booker said he knows about teamwork, since he was part of one of the greatest teams of all-time. “Yeah, you and Goldust were pretty good,” said Cole. Del Rio came in and was knocked out of the ring as Christian desperately tried to make the tag at 11:00. Del Rio made it back in and tagged Clay, who stopped Christian short, headbutting him in the back of the head. Backbreaker by Clay. Del Rio got a near-fall on Christian almost 13:00 in. Running kick to the arm by ADR. Christian fought back and again both men were down and needed to make tags. This time, WWE didn’t need to pipe in the crowd noise. Orton finally made the hot tag and he clobbered Del Rio. Rope-assisted DDT. He set up for the RKO, but Del Rio countered. Clay tagged in after tripping Orton up, but the big man ran right into an RKO. Pinfall, over.

WINNERS: Christian and Orton, at 15:09.

After replays, Christian took off his Smackdown shirt, pointed to it, and then pointed to the title up above as the show signed off.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 02 2011, 01:16 pm
WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 5-1-11 (next 3 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_49726.shtml)

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- Last Man Standing match -- Nexus banned from ringside

After a brief brawl on the outside at the start, they teased an exposed steel spot, but no contact was made. Back on the floor, Punk pulled out a kendo stick and popped Orton across the shoulder. Back in the ring, Punk cracked a stick across the ribs. Punk demanded a ten count on Orton as Punk did a ninja pose with the stick in-hand. Orton made it back to his feet and made a comeback with European uppercuts. They were only 4:00 in, but it seemed like they were at 14:00 building to a finish.

Punk cut off Orton's comeback with more kendo stick shots, then landed a back suplex. Punk demanded a ten count before going for a springboard elbow smash, but Orton cut him off with a mid-air kendo stick shot. More kendo stick shots, then Orton fired up a comeback leading to a fallaway backbreaker. Orton wanted the spike DDT, but Punk caught Orton and catapulted him into the exposed steel. The crowd sounded like the home team's reaction to a swing & miss strike three with the bases loaded.

Punk paused before landing a running knee in the corner. Punk teased the G2S, Orton teased the RKO, Punk teased the G2S, and then Orton threw Punk through a chair wedged in-between the middle turnbuckles. Punk flew to the floor, where ref Charles Robinson applied a ten count, but Punk got up in time. Orton executed a snap powerslam, Punk got up at eight, and Orton started clearing the announce table. Punk answered with a martial arts kick to the head and Punk collected himself on the Cole Mine. Orton used the down time to recover leading to him executing a back drop across the guardrail. Unique.

Back in the ring, Orton dropped down on the mat and teased the RKO, but Punk countered with a strike to the head. Punk then set up Orton for the G2S and connected, but not in flush. It wasn't good enough for the win, as Orton reached his feet in nine. Punk went looking for a chair as his next weapon in the match. He then executed a Russian Legsweep onto the chair, which kept Orton down for an eight count only. Punk smirked as he set up Orton for another Russian onto the chair, but Orton blasted Punk out of nowhere with an RKO center ring. Orton reached his feet as Punk continued to sell. Punk then reached his feet at nine, then almost comically collapsed through the ropes to the outside.

On the floor, Orton clotheslined Punk over the guardrail into the front row. Orton wasn't satisfied and tried his trademark spike DDT off the guardrail, but Punk slid out and rammed Orton back-first into the ringpost. Booker commended Punk on his effort thus far as Orton reached his feet at eight. Punk then placed Orton's head inside a chair and rammed him head/throat-first into the ringpost. Lawler said he knows this is Extreme Rules, but that was too extreme. The announcers did the big set up for a medic needed out here, but Orton made it to his feet at eight for a "super-human comeback."

Next, Punk tried to finish Orton with a G2S through the announce table, but Orton countered with an RKO onto the announce table. Punk remained stomach-first across the table, then made it to his feet at eight. Punk was wobbly and collapsed to the ground again. Suddenly, Orton got that look in his eyes. Orton backed away, then wanted the Punt, but Punk intercepted Orton with a lift-up drop across the ring steps. As the two men were on the floor, Booker said, "These are two guys out in the middle of the ring doing what should be done."

At 18:30, Punk rolled Orton into the ring and wanted a top rope move, but Orton cracked Punk across the shoulder with a kendo stick. Punk was hung upside down, giving Orton an opening to crack the stick over Punk's back over and over. Orton then slowly lifted up Punk, gave him a European, and climbed up top looking for some sort of unique high-risk move. Orton surveyed the crowd and proceeded to deliver a Super RKO from the top turnbuckle. Punk landed awkwardly, so there wasn't a big pop for the move, then the ref began his count. Orton reached his feet at nine and Punk remained down for the count, giving Orton the win.

WINNER: Orton at 20:06. Interesting match. It captured the issues with the Falls Count Anywhere match type where the pay-off isn't strong, especially if the ten counts are overdone, which was the case in this match. Orton moving to Smackdown means the issue was resolved, but it didn't seem like the issue was resolved, as Punk could conceivably show up on TV tomorrow night unaffected by the outcome. (**3/4)

2 -- U.S. champion SHEAMUS vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- U.S. Title match -- Tables match

Before the bell sounded, Booker said Kingston needs to stop smiling like Mark Henry and develop more of a mean streak. Kingston quickly went to the floor looking for a table, but Sheamus jumped him from behind and slid the table underneath the ring. Sheamus then tried to retrieve his own table, but Kingston jumped him from behind. Booker said he wants to see Kingston do work for one time in his life. Are they building to Booker vs. Kingston down the line?

On the other side of the ring, Sheamus teased a powerbomb through another table, but Kingston slipped out. Sheamus then rolled Kingston back into the ring and they teased a spot through the table on the floor, but Sheamus landed a big springboard shoulder tackle to quiet Kingston. Sheamus set up a table in the corner, then tried a running powerslam, but Kingston slipped out to save the match. Kingston and Sheamus teased some table nearfalls before Sheamus knocked Kingston off the ring apron to the floor.

Back in the ring, Sheamus set up for a backpack-maneuver from the top rope through a table, but Kingston slapped Sheamus away. Sheamus went back on the offensive looking for a suplex through a table over the top rope, but Kingston avoided once again. Sheamus tried recovering on the table, but that put him in the wrong spot at the wrong time, as Kingston splashed Sheamus through the table for the win.

WINNER: Kingston at 9:09 to capture the U.S. Title. Predictable outcome, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The match was fine for its slot on the card, but not particularly memorable. Kingston with the U.S. Title now gives that glut of mid-card heels someone to challenge for a title on the Raw brand going forward. (*1/2)

3 -- JIM ROSS & JERRY LAWLER vs. MICHAEL COLE & JACK SWAGGER -- Country Whipping match

Lawler and Swagger were the first men in. Swagger turned his back on Ross, who whipped him from the ring apron. Swagger turned his back on Lawler, who whipped him. Lawler landed multiple whips before tagging out to Cole. Cole mocked Ross and Lawler trying to whip him as the bubble wrap protected him. Lawler then popped Cole with a right hand and unwrapped a few pieces of the bubble wrap before Cole scampered over to Swagger to make a tag. Swagger cornered Lawler and wore him down before Cole tagged in. Cole gleefully smacked Lawler with his whip, taunted Ross, and tagged out to Swagger.

Lawler fought back with right hands, then Cole snuck in the ring and tried to whip Lawler, who slowly turned around. He nearly got his hands on Cole, but Swagger chopblocked him. Swagger slapped on the anklelock, then re-positioned the hold so Ross could swat Swagger to give him a reason to release the hold. Superhuman Lawler then popped up from the anklelock and landed a DDT. Ross then tagged in and whipped Swagger before applying an anklelock. Swagger was then launched across the ring to Cole, creating a tag. Cole reluctantly entered the ring and took a few belt whips. Cole looked so awful trying to sell.

Ross then low-blowed Swagger, who tried to enter the ring to attack Ross. From behind, Cole grappled a distracted Ross and small packaged him for a pin and the win. The crowd groaned as Cole quickly left the ring to celebrate with Swagger. Ross hung his head dejectedly. Mathews, like an idiot, said Cole is undefeated in action, forgetting Cole's reverse decision that lead to the match being created in the first place.

WINNERS: Cole & Swagger at 7:04. Well, it was kept shorter than Cole-Lawler at WrestleMania. But, there was more of a pay-off on free TV Monday night than on the $44.95/$54.95 show tonight. Classic WWE. At the end of the day, Cole Heel will continue on commentary. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 02 2011, 01:16 pm
4 -- CODY RHODES vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Falls Count Anywhere match

The match quickly moved to the floor, then into the stands. Rhodes proceeded to wrap Rey's upper body through a handrail and applied a Boston Crab with Rey sticking through the opening. Rhodes dropped the hold and they took the fight up the arena steps to the concourse. Some fans were held back as Rey rammed Rhodes into a trash container. Booker said it's not about winning a match, but trying to hurt each other. On cue, Rey went for a cover on the floor for a two count. They approached a section of the concourse that randomly had a mirror and Cody executed a step-up enziguiri. Fans off-camera chanted "Holy S---" uncensored before Rey executed a springboard splash off the beer concession stand.

Rey took Cody back into the arena and they battled down the arena steps to the floor. Rey tried to charge Cody, who responded with a hip toss over the barricade to the floor. Cody followed with a clothesline onto the ring steps for a two count. Back in the ring, Rey responded with a turnaround splash off the second rope for a nearfall. Rey then climbed up top and landed a spear-like flying headbutt to the mid-section for a two count. Cody came back with the Alabama Slam for a two count.

After a pause as they tried setting up a top rope move, Rey suddenly busted out green mist and spewed it in Cody's face. Cody spun backward selling the mist in his eyes and Rey smashed him with the 619 into a springboard splash for the pin and the win. After the decision, Rey crouched down low and shot a sinister look toward the crowd. During a replay, Booker noted the mist was a la Great Muta. Back live, Rey continued to *** his head with a devilish look before he walked out of the ring.

WINNER: Mysterio at 11:43. Rhodes could have used that win to give him some momentum as a top heel on Smackdown. The booking made sense for Rey to win in the blow-off match, though. The green mist was a bit of a stretch leading to the finish. (**)

5 -- LAYLA vs. MICHELLE MCCOOL -- Loser Leaves WWE match

McCool jumped Layla from behind to quickly take advantage of the match. The story early on was reluctance from each wrestler to end the other's career, with careful hesitations sprinkled in before big move attempts. Layla hit the Face Lift for a close nearfall, then both women collapsed on the mat following McCool's Styles Clash. McCool slowly made a cover, but Layla countered into a crucifix pin for a quick win. Layla sold jubilation with the win, then despair over McCool's loss.

WINNER: Layla at 5:24, McCool leaves WWE. Good send-off match for McCool, as the two women wrestled with passion, like there was actually something on the line. (*1/2)

Post-match: McCool was in the ring crying, then Kharma's music hit to bring out the former Awesome Kong in her WWE TV debut. Kong slowly made her way to the ring as McCool acted scared. Kharma eventually grasped McCool and delivered her implant buster butterfly suplex finisher. Backstage, the Divas sold concern over Kharma's debut. Kharma did a bit of that Hugh Morrus routine switching between maniacal laughter and seriousness.

6 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. CHRISTIAN -- ladder match for the vacant World Hvt. Title

Christian took control early on, then went to the floor looking for one of a thousand ladders ringside. Del Rio cut him off, though, and stomped Christian to the floor. Christian rebounded moments later reversing a whip into the guardrail. He introduced a ladder into the ring, but Del Rio cut him off. Del Rio then caught Christian with an enziguiri kick before putting a boot to Christian's throat. On the floor, Del Rio propped up a ladder that extended across the ring apron and announce table. Both men teased some spots into the ladder, then Christian splashed Del Rio off a separate ladder.

Back in the ring, Christian teased grabbed the title belt, but Del Rio recovered and yanked him down to the mat. Del Rio teased the cross arm-breaker, but Christian blocked and threw Del Rio onto a ladder propped up in the corner. Both men sold on the mat before Christian knocked Del Rio to the floor. Christian teased climbing the ladder, but Del Rio threw a Hornswoggle-sized ladder at Christian. Del Rio proceeded to set up the step-ladder and take Christian off the regular-sized ladder with a single arm DDT straight to the mat. Very unique. The announcers started bickering, then Booker shot on Cole, drawing some silence.

Meanwhile, Christian and Del Rio teased climbing the ladder before teasing a spot onto the ladder propped up on the outside across the apron and announce table. Ultimately, Christian back-dropped Del Rio back-first onto a ladder inside the ring. Christian tried a ladder spot from the corner, but Del Rio landed an enziguiri that decked Christian. Del Rio then began climbing a ladder looking to fulfill his destiny, but Christian knocked him off the ladder, only to take a knee strike. Del Rio dropkicked Christian to the floor, then received a chair from Ricardo. Del Rio tried to smash Christian with the chair, but Christian countered with a whip into the ringpost.

Back in the ring, the crowd came alive as Christian teased Edge's spear. Christian measured Del Rio and delivered the move center-ring. The crowd popped, then Christian set up a ladder and began climbing. Del Rio stirred as Christian tried to touch the belt, but Del Rio yanked him through a rung of the ladder. Christian was trapped inside the ladder, but Christian slipped out as the last moment to knock Del Rio off the ladder before Del Rio could grab the title belt. Del Rio proceeded to knock Christian onto the apron-to-table ladder, then went for a big splash, but Christian moved and Del Rio ate the ladder before crashing to the floor.

Back in the ring, Christian set up a ladder as the crowd roared. Del Rio was still motionless on the floor. Christian climbed rung by rung. Suddenly, Brodus Clay entered the ring and removed the ladder as Christian hung on the World Title belt. Christian dropped into Clay's arms, but Christian threw him across the ring. Christian then smashed Clay to the floor, but Del Rio caught Christian with a ladder shot to the face. Del Rio applied the cross arm-breaker to give the appearance of cutting off Christian's title aspirations. Del Rio slowly made his way toward a ladder and was atop the ladder, but he was distracted by a horn honking. Edge was in a car smiling at Del Rio, who took his eye off the ball. Christian then knocked Del Rio off the ladder onto Ricardo and a bloody Clay ringside. The crowd saw The Moment coming as Christian scaled a ladder and retrieved the World Title with Edge celebrating ringside.

Post-match: Christian clutched the World Title belt as Edge teared up ringside. Booker put over the moment as Cole said this is something he thought he would never see. Christian held up the World Title belt for everyone to see as he stood atop the ladder. The crowd continued to cheer before Christian dropped down the ladder to embrace Edge. Cole continued to heel on Christian as Booker talked up the moment. Christian continued to soak up the moment before leaving the ring the new World champion.

WINNER: Christian at 21:05 to become new World Hvt. champion. Very strong story with Christian's quest to become World champion realized. Edge's "interference" was tit-for-tat with Clay's interference, so it didn't take away from Christian's win, although Cole tried to play it up as such. Del Rio goes to Raw with two major World Title losses, though, so he'll need some rehab to begin his official run on Raw. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 02 2011, 01:16 pm
7 -- WWE tag champions KANE & BIG SHOW vs. IC champion WADE BARRETT & EZEKIEL JACKSON -- Tag Title match -- lumberjack match

The match quickly broke down with one of the Usos finding himself in the ring. Things settled down, then Jackson executed a big slam on Big Show. Jackson pumped himself up, then Barrett tagged himself in. Barrett wanted Wasteland, big Big Show easily countered into a chokeslam for the win. Afterward, Jackson sold frustration with the loss when he had control of the match. Afterward, the lumberjacks began to fight. It looked like Lance Cade was ringside, but it was D.H. Smith. In the ring, Show and Kane executed double chokeslams on Slater and Gabriel to conclude the match segment.

WINNERS: Show & Kane at 4:15 to retain the Tag Titles. How far Barrett has declined after being a PPV main-eventer and threat to the WWE Title just six months ago. Basically a buffer match in-between the top title matches and a chance to give a lot of guys paydays as lumberjacks.

8 -- WWE champion THE MIZ vs. JOHN CENA vs. JOHN MORRISON -- three-way WWE Title match -- steel cage match

Miz quickly took control of the match, flooring both babyface challengers. A bit of a slow start and both men were selling on the mat at 3:30. Apparently they realized it was only 3:30 into the match and decided to up the tempo starting with Cena's usual Shuffle routine on Morrison. Miz then grappled Cena from behind with Skullcrushing Finale. Morrison quickly recovered from Cena's Shuffle sequence and tried to escape the cage, but Miz pulled him back inside the cage. Miz and Morrison battled atop the cage as Cole noted their history. Cena was out cold throughout this, apparently, and decided to get involved rather than walk through the cage door to win.

Cena and Morrison then executed a double suplex off the cage and Miz landed very scarily on his neck. It looked like a brainbuster with Miz dropping straight down to the mat. For two hours and 34 minutes, you're holding your breath during this PPV hoping someone doesn't get seriously hurt. Miz nearly was right there. One inch the wrong way and he could have seriously injured his neck. All three men sold for a while as the ref checked on Miz. The babyfaces went through a few spots before Miz recovered. Miz and Cena then teased a spot trying to escape the cage door, but neither man could exit.

Morrison suddenly went Spiderman trying to spring out of the cage, but Cena cut him off. Morrison then dangled off the edge of the cage and slammed the door onto Miz's head as Miz was trying to escape through the door. Suddenly, Morrison crotched himself on the cage door. All he had to do was fall down and he would have "escaped" the cage, but he didn't, so Miz dragged Morrison back inside the cage through the cage door. Miz then began working on Cena and Morrison. It's worth noting for posterity sake that the news came down at this moment that Osama Bin Laden is dead.

Miz focused too much on Cena and Morrison tried climbing out again, so Miz ran across the cage to haul Morrison back inside. Suddenly, their roles were reversed and Morrison had to drag Miz back inside the cage. Cena was MIA again, apparently selling elsewhere. Cena could have left through the door again, but opted to go after Morrison. Morrison then flung Cena down. Cena and Miz stood next to each other and awkwardly positioned themselves for Morrison to come off the side of the cage with Starship Pain that floored all three men.

Morrison recovered and began crawling out of the cage, but R-Truth showed up and slammed the cage door on Morrison. Morrison nearly fell out of the cage to win, so Truth lunged forward to catch Morrison. Truth then took Morrison inside the cage and blasted away at him before dropping Cena with an axe kick. Next, Truth dropped Morrison with a single arm DDT. Truth proceeded to climb up the cage and climb over the cage to symbolically "win" the match. Truth had a crazy look in his eyes as he left ringside.

Back in the cage, everyone was down and out. The ref had his hands on his knees surveying the car wreck in the ring waiting for someone to stir. Miz stirred first and slowly pulled himself to his feet. Miz tried climbing out, but Cena trapped Miz and pulled him atop the cage. Cena and Miz traded bombs as they sat atop the cage. Miz then fell back inside the cage and the crowd screamed as Cena teased escaping the cage. It was only a tease, as Miz pulled Cena back inside the cage. Miz teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Cena countered with an Attitude Adjustment from the top rope. Cena made the cover (oh yeah, pinfalls are legal in the match) and it was good for a pin and the win. Cena is the new WWE champion.

Post-match: Cena celebrated and pumped his fist before taking the WWE Title belt. Cena posed inside the cage for a while before signing off, "The champ is here!" The PPV ended eight minutes before the top of the hour at 10:52 p.m. EST.

WINNER: Cena at 19:50 to capture the WWE Title. Just as Miz was settling in as a legit WWE champion, they switched the title. That seemed like an abrupt end to what could have been a lengthy reign for Miz. Now, it sets up Cena fighting off a host of heel challengers (starting with Miz's re-match and eventually Del Rio) trying to make it to WrestleMania 28 vs. The Rock, who will be on Raw Monday night, as WWE champion. WWE also has a strong second or third-tier feud between Truth and Morrison going forward. Over-riding all of that was the near-miss with Miz being dropped on his neck with the double suplex. That was scary, especially on the heels of Kurt Angle's dangerous spots at Lockdown two weeks ago. The match itself had the usual logic holes of a WWE cage match and the additional outside interference, which served a purpose, took away from the PPV main event. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 04 2011, 01:20 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-2-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49757.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results, which makes it quite small actually since much of last night's show was about The Rock's birthday.

R-Truth was suppose to wrestle John Morrison but Truth jumped him before the match began and took Morrison out.

1 -- MARYSE vs. KELLY KELLY

Less than 30 seconds in, Kharma's music played and Kelly freaked out. Kharma slowly made her way to the ring as Kelly cowered in the corner. Ross noted Kharma's TV debut last night at Extreme Rules taking out McCool. Kharma stared down Kelly, but targeted Maryse for her implant buster finisher. Kharma laughed maniacally, stared down Kelly, and left the ring.

WINNER: No Decision. Apparently Kharma's mission is to eradicate the heel Divas and play psychological mind games with the babyface Divas. Strong official TV debut. (n/a)

2 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) -- WWE Title match

Quick start with Cena scoring with a hip-toss and dropkick for an early nearfall. Miz then kicked Cena in the gut to mount an offensive attack. Cena fought back with right hands before Riley hopped on the apron. Cena punched him off the apron, then Miz clotheslined Cena to land multiple right hands. Miz knocked Cena to the floor and Riley proceeded to clothesline Cena while Miz had the referee occupied. On the floor, Miz ran Cena into the ring steps before rolling him back into the ring for a nearfall. Miz followed with a big running clothesline as the fans were engaged in a loud dueling chant of Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks. Miz landed a double axehandle smash from the second rope for a nearfall, then Mathews sent the show to break.

There was a sense of urgency in Ross's voice as they returned from break with Miz scoring a close nearfall. Ross noted he was surprised Miz cashed in his re-match clause tonight after losing the title last night. Mathews said Miz's ego drives him to where he must be WWE champion. Nice, intelligent, refreshing announcer exchange. Cena suddenly made his comeback and set up for the Shuffle, which he connected with. Miz popped to his feet and walked into the AA at the AAA, but Miz slipped out and booted Cena in the head. Miz paused to collect himself, then walked right into the STF. Riley shouted at Miz to get the rope, and Miz did so just in time.

Cena collected himself on the other side of the ring, then walked into a boot to the knee and DDT for a two count. Lots of chatter between Cena, Miz, and the ref here calling some spots. Miz then removed a top turnbuckle pad, which the ref blindly didn't see. Miz tried a turnbuckle shot, but Cena ducked. Miz then ducked a clothesline and hit the Reality Check for a close two count. The crowd was living and dying on every exchange here.

Miz paused again, then stalked Cena from behind. He wanted the Skullcrushing Finale, but Cena ducked and bumped the ref to the outside. Cena then applied the STF and Miz tapped, but the ref was on the floor. Cena stood up to celebrate, which set him up to take a briefcase shot and Skullcrushing Finale form Miz. Riley then slid the ref back into the ring and made a slow count, but Super Cena kicked out, which popped the pro-Cena crowd.

Miz paused again to collect himself, showing frustration with his inability to put away Cena. Miz took too long to collect himself and walked right into the AA. It looked like the end in classic Cena fashion, but Miz kicked out just before three. The ref began a ten count as Riley ran interference again. Miz landed a belt shot behind the ref's back, then made a cover. The ref made the count and there's a new WWE champion.

Post-match: Suddenly, the ref recognized that Miz already had the belt in the ring to celebrate. He then waved off the victory and told Justin Roberts it's a reverse decision. Miz flipped out, screaming at the ref that he can't do that. Miz then argued with Riley before actually shoving Riley. Cena put an end to the discussion with an AA for both Riley and Miz. Cena gave out a primal scream celebrating the win before posing in the ring as Ross noted Cena is in hostile territory in Rock's hometown of Miami. Cena continued to celebrate as they cut to break.

WINNER: Cena via reverse decision at 12:10 to retain the WWE Title. Excellent made-for-TV title match, although the interference was a bit over-done. At least there was some referee competence, but considering it was on behalf of Cena, it will only fuel the anti-Cena sentiment from vocal males with Cena getting "another break" retaining the title. It will be interesting to see where they go from here with the title picture, especially with a PPV in three weeks. The title match outcome certainly didn't "remove" Miz from the discussion despite the loss. (**1/2)

3 -- REY MYSTERIO & U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER & DREW MCINTYRE

Swagger and Rey started things off and Del Rio resumed his anti-Rey narrative from their Smackdown days. Kofi then tagged in and ran off Rey's back for a big corner splash on Swagger. Del Rio then noted he should be World champion right now. Mathews asked him if it's still his destiny and Del Rio was silent as the show cut to break.

Back from break, Swagger and Kingston were battling center-ring in a "Welcome to Raw tag team special attraction," as Ross described it. Del Rio wanted to know why Rey is here on Raw. Lawler said because he was drafted. Del Rio said "they" told him he would be the only Mexican on Raw. Well, that would be true in a comparison to Rey since Rey is American. In any event, Ross told Del Rio not to always trust "they." Del Rio then noted his new destiny to become new WWE champion. Ross quizzed Del Rio on whether he's jealous of Rey and Del Rio snapped that Rey is a Chicano and not a real Mexican. The heels continued to wear down Kingston as Ross equated McIntyre to a high NFL Draft pick you're waiting for to become a Pro Bowler.

Rey finally took a hot tag at 7:40 and cleaned house on McIntyre. Rey scored a nearfall when Swagger broke up a pin, then Kingston entered the action. After Jack was cleared to the outside, Kingston delivered Trouble in Paradise to McIntyre. Rey then hit the 619 on McIntyre and spotted Del Rio standing ringside. Rey pointed to him, then hit a springboard splash on McIntyre for the win. Suddenly, the Washington, D.C. monument flashed on the screen. They cut back to Del Rio and Rey trading glares back and forth. Mathews then fed to a video package.

WINNERS: Rey & Kofi at 8:38. Fine two-segment match, although another installment of Del Rio vs. Rey seems over-done. Since WWE believes there are two different audiences who watch Raw and Smackdown, they're probably thinking it will be fresh on Raw. McIntyre didn't look comfortable at all with his new heel persona. (*1/2)

4 -- WWE tag champion KANE vs. MASON RYAN (w/C.M. Punk)

Before the bell sounded, Ross noted this one won't be a classic wrestling match. Ryan quickly shoved Kane through the ropes, then knocked down Kane in the ring. Ryan followed with a big spinning scoop slam, then Irish whips in opposite corners. Kane mounted a comeback, then Punk interfered, causing a DQ. The other Nexus members charged the ring to little reaction. Kane fought them off, then wanted a chokeslam on Ryan, but Ryan released himself from the grip, freaking out Kane. Ryan then hit a uranage. Nexus beat down Kane for a bit before the other half of the tag champs, Big Show, stormed the ring. Show quickly cleared the ring of Nexus before he ate a big spear from Ryan. Ryan surveyed the damage in the ring before leaving while Punk called out to him. After a replay of Ryan's dominance, they cut to a shot of the other Nexus members selling disbelief with Ryan.

WINNER: Kane via DQ at 1:38. WWE is obviously trying to turn Ryan into their next super-monster heel, but they'll have to get him away from the completely irrelevant Nexus group for it to work. As for Punk, it's clear they're not looking to turn him into a bigger star to entice him to stick around with his contract due. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 04 2011, 01:12 pm
WWE NXT Results: 5-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49797.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHAVO GUERRERO vs. DARREN YOUNG -- Hornswoggle special referee

A one-footed Young hobbled across the ring toward Chavo, who quickly targeted the exposed leg. Regal mentioned past barefoot wrestlers, prompting a Haku reference from Titus. Grisham tried a poetry joke, which fell flat. Young made a comeback with a back-body drop and went for a cover, but Hornswoggle found himself preoccupied. Chavo then clotheslined Young over the top rope and landed a plancha leading to a break.

Back on NXT, Chavo was wearing down Young as Hornswoggle pretended to show concern for Young. Young made a comeback and chucked Chavo to the outside, then dropped Chavo across the ring apron on the floor. Back in the ring, Young wore down Chavo and choked him across the middle rope. Hornswoggle reprimanded Young some more, then Young resumed his attack and scored a slow one count. Young, still on one foot, lost control of Chavo before Chavo landed a textbook dropkick. "To the lips," Titus said with great enthusiasm.

Chavo slingshot Young across the top rope and landed a slingshot dive from the apron for a two count. Chavo did a bit of an Eddie shake and went for multiple suplexes, but Young escaped and bumped Hornswoggle. Horny refused to count Young's subsequent pin on a Nothern Lights suplex. Young got up and argued with Horny, who then bit him on the tailbone. Titus tried to act like he didn't see anything, but was rather unconvincing. Chavo followed with Three Amigos and climbed up top to deliver the Frog splash. The pin and Hornswoggle made it official for the win. Chavo and Horny celebrating, putting aside their issues from a few years ago to show the kids that everyone can get along.

WINNER: Chavo at 9:13. Fine match continuing the Pro vs. Rookie issues in the Chavo and Young feud. (*1/2)

2 -- CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov) vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

As Cannon came to the ring noting to the crowd it's all about him, the announcers mentioned that NXT host Maryse is not in the house this week after Kharma took care of her on Raw last night. Prior to the bell sounded, Regal said he gave himself a fake tan ahead of his scheduled match against Novak tonight. Regal continued to run down Novak's Pro, JTG, as the two Rookies traded holds in the ring. And they continued to trade holds for a while. Cannon then tried to bail from the ring, but Conor threw him back in. Kidd tried to get involved, which gave Cannon an opening to kick Conor in the head and hit an ugly-looking fireman's carry finisher for the win.

WINNER: Cannon at 4:16. Well below-average match. The NXT Rookies are still learning how to put together the meat of a match, as evidenced by this in-ring effort. Cannon has the character aspect down pat, but Needs Improvement in the ring.

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. JTG (w/Jacob Novak)

The bell sounded and JTG quickly bailed to the outside to catch a breather. The ringside audience taunted JTG, who collected himself and mock applauded Regal. JTG then slipped back into the ring and assumed a fighting stance. Regal danced around the ring, then ducked under JTG and landed knee strikes beneath the jaw. JTG bailed from the ring again to catch a breather as Novak paced around with JTG. Back in the ring, Regal extended a mock handshake. Scout's Honor. JTG shook, then Regal stomped on JTG's hand. In between knee strikes, Regal told Novak he's too much of a coward. Regal then walked into a boot to the head that finally gave JTG some momentum.

JTG mounted Regal and landed multiple right hand strikes for a one count. JTG followed with a hip toss for another one count. JTG taunted Regal and landed right hand strikes. Novak got involved on the outside, then Regal popped to his feet and told JTG to bring it stronger. JTG ducked under the ropes to avoid Regal's wrath, then slipped out of the ring to keep Regal pacing around the ring like a hungry tiger. Regal and JTG eventually traded places in a game of cat & mouse, so Regal popped Novak on the outside.

Back in the ring, Regal drove JTG to the corner before doing some back mule kicks to the gut as the ref tried to reprimand him. Can Regal get his own show? Regal then measured JTG for the knee trembler strike and connected. Regal made a cover, but Novak interfered to cause a DQ. Post-match: Novak pounded on Regal and made Regal gasp for air. Novak then collected JTG and pulled him out of the ring. From the outside, Novak taunted Regal, who collected himself in the ring and eyed Novak that he can't wait to get a piece of him.

WINNER: Regal via DQ at 6:01. Although he doesn't appear to be in great physical shape, Regal hasn't lost a step being a master storyteller in the ring. Nice match that allowed JTG and Novak to show something new personality-wise. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2011, 01:46 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_49846.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA vs. JEY USO

Korpela played up some story that Barreta walked into the office and demanded he be on Superstars this week to redeem himself after a loss to Tyson Kidd on last week's show. Korpela then asked Striker why Jey would take a singles match tonight. Striker played up a story that he signed a Smackdown contract dictating he has to take singles matches, tag matches, and any other match, so he selected a singles offering this week. Jey cleared Barreta to the outside, causing Barreta to crash into the guardrail leading to break.

Jey focused on Barreta's throat with a chinlock, then nailed a giant butt bomb in the corner. Jey didn't follow up and simply stared down at Barreta before making a cover for a nearfall. Barreta came back with a moonsault from the top turnbuckle followed by a springboard dropkick for a two count. Jey came back with a toss-up Samoan Drop for a two count, but missed with a top rope splash. Barreta went back up top, but Jey crotched him. Jey wanted a Samoan Drop, but he made a mistake giving Barreta an opening to nail the Dudebuster tornado DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Barreta at 7:45. Fine singles match getting over Barreta's resiliency after a competitive back-and-forth.

2 -- MELINA vs. BETH PHOENIX

The Raw portion of the show picked up with Scott Stanford and Josh Mathews on the call for a Divas match. Stanford noted Melina's recent losing streak on Superstars. Meanwhile, Mathews resumed his position critiquing Stanford on being long-winded and not speaking in soundbytes. As the match started, Mathews talked up the Divas Title, saying it doesn't behoove the Divas to be friendly toward each other since there's only one women's division title in WWE. Stanford went back to the 2010 Royal Rumble for Phoenix's memorable elimination of Great Khali, drawing Mathews's ire again for a "dated" reference. Stanford wanted to go back even further to Extreme Rules 2009 when Phoenix and Melina locked up in an I Quit match. Wrong PPV. On cue, Melina tried to get Phoenix to quit this match, but Phoenix resisted and made a spirited comeback. Melina tried to come back with a kick strike, but Phoenix ducked, Melina caught herself in the splits, and Phoenix lifted her up in the air for the Glam Slam and the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 4:38. Good chemistry here. There seems to be some momentum building behind the women's division with Kharma's introduction. An interesting note during the match was the announcers talked about McCool leaving WWE, so it's not a complete write-off by not mentioning her at all.

3 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. ZACK RYDER

Basic back-and-forth to start the match as the two men traded holds. Bourne knocked Ryder to the floor, then wanted a huracanrana, but Ryder caught Bourne in mid-air and threw him into the guardrail. Ryder grinned for the camera as they cut to break.

Back in the ring, Ryder was wearing down Bourne, showing more aggression than in the beginning of the match. Ryder then measured Bourne for a running boot in the corner and connected. Stanford noted it's the Broski Boot. Ryder with a cover for a nearfall, then he settled into a modified crossface that showed a lot of light. Ryder re-applied the hold, then smirked for the camera and started toying with Bourne.

Ryder wanted a move from the second rope, but Bourne intercepted him with a blow to the mid-section for a nearfall. Bourne followed with a dropsault, then a kick strike to the mid-section. Ryder tried a desperation Rough Ryder, but Bourne caught him with a knee to the face. The crowd roared as Bourne climbed up top, then delivered the Air Bourne. "Air Bourne in the house!" Stanford declared. Bourne with the cover for the win. As Bourne celebrated, they went to a slow-motion replay of Bourne smashing Ryder with his finisher. Bourne continued to celebrate as Ryder was shown mouthing, "Are you serious, bro?" More smiles from Bourne to conclude the show.

WINNER: Bourne at 7:11. Solid, professional effort from two underutilized players on the Raw roster.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2011, 01:48 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_49849.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 --- SANGRIENTO vs. SUICIDE

Suicide was in control early over the newcomer (name apparently means bloodthirsty) before a hurrancanrana onto the floor put Sangriento back into control. It didn't last long as he climbed onto the ring apron for another move but Suicide knocked his feet out from underneath him and rolled him into the ring for a two count.

As Suicide held Sangriento into a headlock, the reunion of the AJ Styles/Daniels tag team was announced for later tonight against Bully Ray and Gunner. Meanwhile, Sangriento was in trouble as Suicide continued to control things with a big dropkick and a powerslam for another two count.

Sangriento fought out of it and knocked Suicide to his knees and hit a dropkick off the the turnbuckle before hitting a top rope hurrancanrana onto Suicide. Both times he earned a two count. Suicide rebounded with a face first move into the turnbuckle and looked to be in control. However, Sangriento countered mid-move into another hurrancanarana before hitting a cool looking springboard move that led directly into a mid-air cutter for the victory.

WINNER: SANGRIENTO in 4:00

BAX REAX: That has to be Amazing Red under a mask. Either way, Suicide had a lot of offense in this match but Sangriento had his spots as well. A four minute match is too short to get over a new high flyer but it isn't as big of a deal since TNA hasn't made the X Division Championship seem important in two years. But it is a shame because it felt like this match was just starting to kick into high gear when the end came.

2 --- TV CHAMPION GUNNER & BULLY RAY vs. AJ STYLES & DANIELS

Daniels & Bully Ray started things off. Bully Ray started talking trash at AJ, so Daniels tagged him in but Ray scurried out and tagged in Gunner before AJ could touch him. AJ hit his signature picture-perfect drop down, jump over dropkick onto a running Gunner before tagging in Daniels.

The two Fortune men kept control for a moment before Daniels was hit by Ray as he came off of the ropes, allowing Gunner to level him and tag in Bully Ray. Ray beat Daniels in the corner before Gunner was tagged back in to hit a bodyslam for a two count.

The crowd got behind Daniels as Gunner had him in a headlock and the Fallen Angel fought his way out and leveled Gunner with a flying clothesline. He tagged Styles into the match and AJ eventually decked Gunner with a flying clothesline.

AJ then nailed Gunner with a Pele Kick. Surprisingly, Styles climbed back outside the ring for a springboard move and Ray leveled him onto the top rope. Daniels took out Gunner but Ray came into the ring and clotheslined him down.

Bully Ray picked up his chain and looked like he was ready to hit AJ with it. Suddenly, Tommy Dreamer charged out to the ring to make the save. Except after a short staredown with Ray, he turned and hit a piledriver on AJ Styles and the ref called for the bell as the crowd booed Dreamer.

WINNERS: AJ STYLES & DANIELS in 4:00 via DQ

After the match, Dreamer looked like he regretted his action but left at Bully Ray's side. Ray looked in the camera and told Styles that he was going to hurt him. Commercial hit as Tenay promised follow up on Tommy's actions.

3 --- ROB TERRY vs. MURPHY --- LOSER LEAVES IMMORTAL

Not much happened early as both men tried to knock each other over without success. Eventually, Rob Terry tossed Murphy into the corner for his usual lumbering shoulder blocks that Taz & Tenay put over as dominating. Of course, anyone with two eyes can tell they're slow and thoroughly unremarkable. Murphy moved before Terry could hit him running in the corner and then hit a backdrop. Murphy went up to the top rope and hit a flying clothesline on Terry for a two count. The crowd seemed to be somewhat getting behind Terry as he tried to get back to his feet and then back body dropped Murphy when Murphy took too long to play to the cameras.

Terry fought out and hit Murphy with a spinning heel kick before a shoulder carry powerslam earned him the pinfall victory.

WINNER: ROB TERRY in 3:30

Murphy is out of Immortal.

4 --- TNA KNOCKOUTS CHAMPIONSHP --- MICKIE JAMES (CHAMPION) vs. MISS TESSMACHER

Does anyone remotely believe Miss Tessmacher is going to beat one of the greatest women's wrestlers of all time in her first televised match? Tessmacher 'dropped' her glasses for another cheer for the crowd. She fits great into the WWE Diva playbook with her ability to shake her *** far exceeding her ability to wrestle. She's like a dark-haired Kelly Kelly.

A couple of headlocks and armbars started things off before Mickie hit a running shoulder block on Tessmacher before a dropkick got a one count. Tessmacher fought back and they exchanged half of a dozen forearm shots.

Tessmacher climbed onto the top turnbuckle and jumped onto Mickie's shoulders. Instead of the electric chair drop, Tessmacher got a two count on a victory roll. She then hit an ugly enziguri that led to a wristlock on Mickie. James fought back but Tessmacher hit a knee to the gut to kept her in control.

But not long thereafter, Mickie hit a pair of running clotheslines followed up with a hangman's neckbreaker that stunned Miss Tessmacher. Mickie then hit her tornado DDT for the win.

WINNER: MICKIE JAMES in 4:00

Tessmacher didn't take the tornado DDT very well. In fact, it looked pretty bad on her end. Still, she didn't look quite as bad in this match as I had expected.

5 --- KURT ANGLE & VELVET SKY vs. JEFF JARRETT, WINTER & ANGELINA LOVE

Velvet and Winter started things off and the first move of the match was a monkey flip that didn't get much air by Velvet, followed by a big clothesline that put Winter down. However, Winter slammed Velvet face first into the middle turnbuckle and tagged Love in.

Love continued her no-selling of Velvet's offense before Velvet hit a running spear that finally did the job of putting Zombie Love on her back. Velvet then went after Karen, which distracted her long enough for Angelina to hit a dropkick out of the ring, leading to a commerical break.

Back from break, Velvet was taking a beating from a stoic Zombie Love. She tagged in Winter and they hit a double team suplex as the crowd chanted 'We Want Angle!' as Jarrett comically waved his arms no. However, Velvet managed to crawl through and tag Kurt in.

Angle came in like a house of fire and took JJ down before hitting him with a big belly to belly suplex. He went for the Angle Slam but Jarrett countered into an arm drag before hitting Kurt with a DDT for a two count.

The men swung back and forth before Kurt turned a roll-through pin attempt into the Ankle Lock. Karen tried to drag JJ out but Kurt pulled them both back across the ring. As Karen sat complaining, Velvet tagged herself in and went after Karen.

Unfortunately, Velvet must not be very good at math because she got double teamed. But then surprisingly, she caught both women in a DDT under each arm and pinned Winter for the win.

WINNERS: in 8:30 (5:00 televised)

Kurt congratulated Velvet and told her he hoped this would lead her towards her dream of becoming the Knockouts Champion. The then told JJ and Karen that his chosen one wasn't Velvet but Karen's nightmare would be at Impact next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2011, 01:50 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-6-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_49877.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Mathews said Daniel Bryan is like the Ryan Reynolds of WWE, because he’s athletically gifted. That’s an interesting observation, since you don’t usually here Reynolds referred to as “athletically gifted.” Sheamus aggressively went after Bryan, still angry from his US Title loss on Sunday. Bryan and Sheamus went back-and-forth in the corner. Bryan flipped away from danger, and caught Sheamus with a light dropkick that sent the Irishman to the outside. Bryan dove through the middle ropes and onto Sheamus. The men traded blows on the outside, but Sheamus, from inside, whipped Bryan, on the apron, into the ring post. Back in the ring, back-breaker by Sheamus. They went to break at 1:52 of the match.

Back at 5:58 of the match. Bryan was working out of a rest-hold. Bryan walked right into a back-breaker, the second one we’ve seen so far in this match. Sheamus, from the apron, gave Bryan a knee-lift as Bryan was draped between the ropes. Shoulder tackle by Sheamus for two. Bryan blocked a second-rope suplex and landed a dropkick at 7:50 to even the score. Both men got to their feet until Bryan used his patented kicks to his advantage. Booker wondered whether Bryan had karate or kung fu in his background based on those kicks. Sheamus set Bryan up for Pale Justice, but Bryan countered. Sheamus went for another diving shoulder tackle, but Bryan dodged it, grabbed the arm, and applied the LeBell Lock. Sheamus was close enough to the ropes to grab them. Sheamus went to the outside and Bryan was about to dive through the ropes at him. As he attempted it, Sheamus pump kicked him, knocking him for a loop. Back in the ring, Sheamus with another Brogue Kick, this time for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 9:43. Good match, and nice finishing sequence. Too bad Bryan couldn’t get the win here, but they may be positioning Sheamus to be one of, if not the top heel on the brand.

2 – THE BIG SHOW vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Match was joined in progress, but it didn’t appear very far along, as they were locking up. The two men stalled a bit, until Show took Jackson down with a rear waist-lock. However, Jackson back body-dropped Show. He put the boots to Show as Booker T. said something about this being the first time he’s seen Show on his back. I’ll assume I mis-heard him. Jackson then picked Show up and bodyslammed him. Rear chin-lock by Jackson, as he didn’t waste time going after the big man. Kane showed concern at ringside. Show came back and both men were down just over 2:00 in. The two got to their knees and traded rights. Show went for body shots, then clotheslined Jackson down. And another. Big splash by Show in the corner, then a shoulder tackle. Heath Slater got on the apron to distract, but Kane took him down. He put Justin Gabriel down too, but Wade Barrett gave him a big boot. Corre pounded on Kane until Show came out and cleaned house. Show went back into the ring, but by then, Jackson had recovered. One big clothesline later, and it was over.

WINNER: Jackson, 3:32 shown. This got over Jackson’s power, though he didn’t really do anything we hadn’t seen before. That said, the match was not as bad as one might expect.

3 – LAYLA vs. ALICIA FOX

Fox was shaking it even more so than usual on her way to the ring. Hey, it’s part of the job to notice things like that. Fox was on the offensive to start, and she hammered away on her opponent in the corner. Layla came back with kicks and connected on her neck-breaker. Cover, reminiscent of Maryse, for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at :53. Not much to say. Too short really, but it appears Layla is playing the babyface, as expected, now.

Before Layla could celebrate too much, Kharma’s music played and she came out. Of course, the women in the ring were mesmerized by her. At least Maryse was too injured to leave the ring on Raw. What’s the excuse for these ladies? Cole did say it’s almost as if Kharma hypnotizes them, which would somewhat explain the fact that they don’t high-tail it out. Kharma entered the ring, and Layla wisely left. She eyed Layla as she made her way up the ramp, so Fox came up from behind Kharma and kicked in her the ribs. It had no effect, other than to annoy Kharma. “Kharma is looking at her like she’s a chicken bone,” said Booker. Kharma caught a second kick attempt, and clotheslined Fox down. Implant Buster on Fox. Kharma did her Hugh Morris thing as the crowd (or perhaps the audio sweetener) buzzed with interest. Slight chant of “one more time.”

4 – SIN CARA vs. TYSON KIDD

They competed under the special Sin Cara lighting. Cara did some flips early, then took Cara down with a headscissors after going around the world about two times. Chavo took credit for doing pretty much all of these moves early on, earlier in his career. Kidd kicked Cara outside the ring, and suplexed him onto the ringside mat. Crowd, mostly kids, chanted for Cara. Kidd choked Cara in the ropes, but missed a catapult leg-drop. Handspring back-elbow by Cara, then another headscissors. Springboard cross-body for two. Kidd set himself on the top rope, and tried to bring Cara up. Cara kicked him in the head as Chavo accused Cara of stealing his moves. C4 off the top by Cara for the win. Chavo questioned who that move hurt more. Seeing as Kidd was PINNED because of the move, I’d say it was him.

WINNER: Cara, at 2:48. Sounds like we’re getting a Chavo vs. Cara feud. I’m not going to complain about that. Chavo has experience with that style and he can put Cara over.

5 – RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Christian barely cleared Orton on a leap-frog, and it may have earned him some harsh words from Steve Austin or Bill DeMott were he on Tough Enough. Orton grabbed Christian and from overhead, reigned blows down upon his chest. He set up for the rope-assisted DDT at about 1:15 of the match, but Christian dumped Orton over the top rope and to the outside. Christian with a baseball slide through the ropes, but he missed a dive over the top. They went to break 1:43 in.

Back 5:29 into the match. Orton was still in control. Mathews said Orton has pinpointed the bruises Christian suffered on Sunday, and he’s taking advantage of them. Rear waist-lock by Orton, designed to wear down the champion. Christian fought back with rights, but he missed a clothesline. Orton clotheslined Christian over the top and to ringside, and he went tumbling out to. Break again, at 7:55 of the match.

At 11:19 of the match, they returned from break. Christian caught a foot to the back of his head from Orton on that spill before the break. Orton headbutted Christian in the ring, but succumbed to a back elbow for a two-count. Both men were down at 12:22. The two volleyed back and forth on the their feet, and a big dropkick turned things Orton’s way. He dialed it up with some big clotheslines. Christian countered and hit his spin kick in the corner. Dropkick off the second rope for two. Orton tossed Christian over the top, but Christian held on and brought Orton’s throat down over the top rope. Cross-body off the top for a near-fall at 14:05. He went to the opposite corner and hit a European uppercut off the top rope. Orton with a powerslam for two. Both men’s gauges looked to be near “E.” Christian set up for the Killswitch, but Orton dodged it. Christian missed his punch from outside the ring and Orton DDT’d Christian from between the ropes. Orton was irate when Christian kicked out. The camera showd a close-up of both men’s faces. Olympic Slam countered into a reverse DDT for only two. Olympic slam finally connected, and Orton pounded the mat, ready to strike for the finish. Christian countered it and Orton countered his finisher. Christian went for his springboard sunset flip, but Orton connected on the RKO, in mid-air, in the middle of the ring to become the new champion.

WINNER: Orton, at 17:18. I don’t think anyone expected Christian to be the long-term champion, but I’m sure some are surprised that he didn’t really even get a chance to carry the ball.

Orton celebrated on the ramp with his newly-won belt, as Christian struggled to come to grips with the loss in the ring. He got to his feet, but didn’t exactly get a rousing ovation. There it is, as he left the ring. The crowd did seem more pro-Orton than pro-Christian during the match, though we don’t know how much WWE tinkered with the audio. Christian slowly made his way up the ramp as the camera stayed on him from afar. He rubbed his head in frustration as the show faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 13 2011, 07:23 am
Okay...behind since I had some personal issues going on (mom in hospital!) so let's get caught up already ;)

WWE RAW Results: 5-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_49922.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BELLA TWINS (Divas champion BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA) vs. EVE & KELLY KELLY

The Bella Twins were already in the ring back from break. Eve then came out, followed by Kelly Kelly, for tag action. Mathews plugged Kelly in Maxim magazine before the opening bell. The Bellas quickly isolated Kelly, who fought back before the action broke down. In the confusion, Kelly scored a small package win.

Post-match: Kharma's music played and the Divas freaked out. The Bellas hid ringside, then ran away once Kharma made her way to the ring. Kelly then ran out of the ring, so Eve was alone. Eve tried to charge Kharma, who clotheslined her. After chasing off Kelly, Kharma re-entered the ring to give Eve the implant buster. Cue up maniacal laughter. Refs eventually slid into the ring to check on Eve.

WINNER: Kelly & Eve at 1:21. On the house shows over the weekend, Kharma attacked Eve, so they carried this over to TV. Perhaps it was a test run so Kharma wouldn't injure Eve. There's no sense yet where this is all going. (n/a)

2 -- WWE tag champion KANE (w/WWE tag champion Big Show) vs. MASON RYAN (w/C.M. Punk)

The announcers heavily, heavily promoted Ryan as he displayed his limited moveset. Ryan lifted Kane in the air to deliver a big powerslam in the corner turnbuckle for a two count. Show sold concern ringside, then Kane made a comeback with various kicks to the upper body. The ref had to guide Mason away from the ropes so Punk could run interference behind the ref's back. Big Show then smashed Punk with a KO Punch ringside. Suddenly, Nexus hit the ring to attack the tag champs and cause a DQ, but Show and Kane easily discarded of the scrubs.

Post-match: Ryan entered the ring and ate a double chokeslam. Kane hit the pyro as Nexus tried to check on Punk, who sold he was KO'ed. Meanwhile, Ryan was attended to by a ref. The tag champs left the ring as the carnage was evident ringside.

WINNER: Kane via DQ at 2:16. This was all over the place. No one takes Nexus seriously anymore, and this didn't help. If the goal is to build up foes for Kane and Show, WWE is failing. Ryan looked pretty lost in the ring. He's not ready, so WWE is having the announcers heavily push him as a monster to try to distract from how green he is. (1/4*)

3 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. SANTINO

One minute into the match, Mathews said Ziggler had been in control "throughout the match." Santino then warmed up the Cobra, but Ziggler met him with a dropkick to the mush. Ziggler followed with the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win. Vickie clapped it up for Ziggler as Cole talked up Ziggler as the future of WWE. Ziggler then sternly walked out of the ring, ignoring Vickie's encouragements.

WINNER: Ziggler at 1:42. Fine squash using equity built up in Santino's finisher to transfer fan excitement to anger toward Ziggler. They need to do more with Ziggler, though, and they need new announcers. There isn't a credible lead announcer with a true compass on the show, disallowing WWE from being able to set up their stories to effectively build heat on the heels or rally fan support for the faces. (n/a)

4 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. ALEX RILEY -- non-title match

Cena toyed with Riley early on, then Riley cut him off and worked a headlock. Cena easily made his comeback and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then teased the Attitude Adjustment as Miz walked out half-way down the ramp. Cena, while staring down Miz, delivered the AA center ring. Miz came a little closer to the ring and Cena lifted up Riley for another AA. Next, Cena slapped on the STF center ring. Riley immediately tapped out and Miz remained standing on the ramp. Cena eventually released the hold and posed in front of Miz, who maintained his position on the ramp. Cena posed in the ring as Miz slowly backed up the ramp. More back-and-forth shots of Cena and Miz before Cena posed in the ring with the title belt.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 3:12. Decisive squash for Cena to build him up as invincible. It makes long-term sense to build up Cena as strong as possible these next 11 months leading to WM28 vs. The Rock.

5 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. JACK SWAGGER -- U.S. Title match

Swagger teased the anklelock, then Kofi teased Trouble in Paradise early on. Cole suddenly made some beeping noises to introduce a special news bulletin that Jerry "The King" Lawler is in pain. In the ring, Kofi mounted some offense with a dropkick that sent Swagger to the floor. Kofi teased a plancha, but Swagger slipped into the ring and landed a forearm smash. Kofi recovered on the floor, Cole clapped it up for Swagger, and they cut to break.

Back from break, they went back-and-forth for a bit before Kofi delivered a signature high cross-body splash from the top rope for a close two count. Swagger then tried to chuck Kofi over the top rope, but Kofi skinned the cat, only to have Swagger grab his ankle. Swagger teased the anklelock, but Kofi grabbed the ropes to avoid. Swagger, with a cut lip, took too long to follow up, giving Kofi an opening. Kofi lost control, then Swagger stood on his ankle. Swagger looked to the back and saw Lawler standing on-stage with a crazy look in his eyes. Lawler started walking to the ring as Kofi took advantage of the distraction to nail Trouble in Paradise for the pin.

WINNER: Kingston at 8:24 to retain the U.S. Title. Okay match, but ultimately a set-up for the post-match. (*1/2)

Post-match: Lawler yanked Swagger out of the ring and threw him over the guardrail. Lawler then threw his announcer chair over the Cole Mine into the box. Lawler then grabbed Cole's tie through a peephole and rammed Cole face-first into the panel over and over and over and over again. It was rhythmic. Lawler then hold Cole's face against the panel to give the fans a laugh with a close-up of Cole's face smushed against the panel.

Refs eventually pulled Lawler away and Cole slumped to the floor. Swagger recovered and checked on Lawler, then grabbed the mic and told Lawler he's fired for touching Cole. Lawler, who was being held back by ref Guido, noted he only grabbed Cole's tie. Swagger then spoke on behalf of Cole that he accepts Lawler's match proposal and he'll be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Cole came to his senses and flipped out on Swagger, wanting to know why he accepted the match. They went to a replay of Lawler yanking Cole by the tie into the glass panel, with his eyes and face smushed like a cartoon. Apparently Lawler vs. Cole is booked for Over the Limit, but they didn't make the date/time/location official.

6 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO vs. THE MIZ -- #1 contender match to WWE Title

Rey escaped the two heels early on, then teased a double 619, but Del Rio cut him off and rolled Rey out of the ring to the floor. Miz tried to roll up Del Rio from behind, but Del Rio escaped at two. Del Rio and Miz traded counters, then Rey entered the ring and flipped around Del Rio for a two count. Lawler noted he feels pretty good about himself getting a match with Cole. Still no official word on whether this is set for Over the Limit. With Del Rio on the outside, Rey and Miz battled in the ring before Del Rio re-entered and threw Rey over the top rope. Del Rio and Miz then battled before a double head-knock put both men on the mat. They cut to break with everyone down & out and the crowd sitting on their hands.

Back from break, Del Rio was working over Rey in the ring while Miz tried to re-enter. Del Rio then knocked Miz off the apron and went back to work on Rey. Del Rio then slipped to the outside and rammed Miz into the ringpost before re-entering the ring to wear down Rey some more. Del Rio then tried a move off the ropes, but Miz pulled down the top rope to bring Del Rio to the floor. In the ring, Miz accepted a kick to the face from Rey, who scored a nearfall. Suddenly, bodies started flying on the outside and all three men recovered on the floor.

Back in the ring, Rey delivered high-flying offense on Del Rio, but it was only good for another two count. Del Rio then shoved Rey away, but Rey responded with a head scissors. Suddenly, Miz snuck into the ring via the top turnbuckle, but Rey sent Del Rio into the turnbuckle to crotch Miz. Lawler then noted Miz can't be happy about the ref in the match being the same ref as last week's WWE Title match. Del Rio then knocked Miz to the floor and followed with the cross arm-breaker on Rey. Miz broke up the submission, though, and popped Del Rio in the face for a two count. Miz stalked Rey for the Skullcrushing Finale, but Rey knocked Miz to the floor. Suddenly, Riley came hobbling down to ringside. Riley checked on Miz on the floor while Del Rio and Rey battled in the ring. Riley got on the apron and Rey flung Del Rio into Riley. Rey then hit 619 on Del Rio, took out Miz on the apron, and climbed up top. Rey hit a splash on Del Rio and made a cover, but Riley yanked Del Rio out of the ring. Miz then snuck in the back door to roll up Rey from behind for the win.

WINNER: Miz at 13:43 to become #1 contender. It was pretty clear where they were going with the story of Riley helping out Miz to make up for his earlier errors. Not a great three-way match with over-use of the "one man out and two men in" format. I'd be happy to see three-way matches go away for a very long time. As for the men in the ring, it was a chance for the wrestlers and WWE to feel out who had good chemistry each other. Miz and Del Rio seemed to work well together stylistically, but the heel vs. heel match-up won't work with a live crowd. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 13 2011, 07:30 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_49976.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TITUS O'NEIL vs. DARREN YOUNG

Young's Pro, Chavo, was on commentary for this match. Chavo said he might have been a culprit of kidnapping Hornswoggle six months ago, but he's grown fond of him. The bell sounded and Titus tried to beat some answers out of Young with clubbing forearms to the chest. Titus then shoved Young to the floor and Young acted like he was heading home, but Titus grabbed him and rolled him back into the ring. Titus approached Young and demanded to know where Hornswoggle is, then landed a big clothesline. Titus continued to bully Young before delivering another big clothesline.

Young eventually cut off Titus as Regal and Chavo reminisced about their WCW days when Regal was Lord Steven. Young continued to work over Titus until Titus caught him in an electric chair. Both men sold on the mat as the ref applied a ten count. Titus then tried to fire up the crowd for his comeback before Young scored with a quick roll-up for a three count, giving O'Neil his first loss on NXT5. Young smiled as he left the ring, where Titus continued to act frustrated.

WINNER: Young at 5:23. Above-average NXT match, mainly due to Titus showing some range performing in the ring. The Hornswoggle storyline was a bit silly, but it gave them something to compete over.

2 -- BYRON SAXTON (w/Yoshi Tatsu) vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov)

Before the match, they flashed back to last week when Saxton told Yoshi he doesn't want his help anymore. Grisham said he was surprised that Yoshi came out with Saxton this week. Saxton completely ignored Yoshi before the bell sounded to start this one off. At 1:30, they cut to a shot of JTG, Chavo, and Kidd on-stage scribbling notes on their clipboards. Meanwhile, Regal, who was celebrating a birthday, dryly thanked the WWE staff for buying him a timeshare in Iraq. At 3:00, Regal gave a wink & a nod to this being a snoozefest by saying the Rookies weren't showing any fire or sense of urgency with an elimination coming next week.

Saxton showed some fire with a comeback at 4:15, but he couldn't put away Conor with a pin attempt. Saxton then came off the top with a clothesline and it was good for the win. Yoshi excitedly entered the ring to celebrate with Saxton, who wanted nothing to do with Yoshi. Nice intensity from Saxton in the post-match.

Saxton then grabbed a mic and reminded Yoshi he's doing this on his own because Yoshi is too distracted with Maryse. Yoshi looked confused. He said it's either the language barrier or Yoshi is just too stupid. Yoshi understood that and got in Saxton's face. Saxton then told him he doesn't want or need him. Regal said that's not smart. Saxton then walked out of the ring selling he was upset.

WINNER: Saxton at 4:50. O'Brian should be gone next week. Just a vacuous character taking up space. Saxton stepped up this week conveying emotion and on the mic.

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. JACOB NOVAK (w/JTG)

Novak danced around the ring, trying to avoid locking up with Regal, who eventually used his veteran skills to knock Novak to the floor. JTG tried to get Novak's head back in the game before re-entering the ring. Novak landed an elbow to the face to take control as they cut to break.

Back from break, Novak scored a two count and settled into a headlock. Well, it was barely a headlock. Regal then escaped and rammed Novak in the shoulder blades to knock him into the corner. JTG shouted at Novak to get back on him and he did so. Regal then made a comeback and raked Novak's forehead across the top rope. Regal got a reaction playing to the crowd, then wanted a t-bone suplex, but Novak blocked and rammed Regal back into the corner. Novak landed an ugly forearm, then Regal stumbled out of the corner. Novak found himself in a bad position, though, and Regal capitalized with the Regal Stretch center-ring. Novak was forced to tap out, drawing frustration from JTG. Afterward, Regal paraded around the ring, fired up after the win, as Novak tried to talk down a frustrated JTG, claiming this isn't over yet.

WINNER: Regal via submission at 6:15. Novak's offense was pretty close to awful, while Regal did his best to cover for Novak's limited abilities in the ring. Novak continues to stand out doing his Slam Master J gimmick, but he isn't anywhere close to ready for the main roster. Regal continues to be a bright spot on a weekly basis.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2011, 10:37 am
TNA Impact! Results: 5-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50020.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MADISON RAYNE & TARA vs. Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES & MISS TESSMACHER

Earl Hebner had the referee assignment for this one. The story early on was tension between Mickie and Tara after Mickie set up a "Free Tara" stipulation last week for the KO Title match against Madison at the PPV. Mickie and Tara then shook hands, much to Rayne's dismay. Rayne's anger got the best of her, as Tess scored a quick pin out of nowhere for the win. Rayne flipped out on Tara, who ignored her and left the ring.

WINNERS: Mickie & T at 2:16. Basic set up for Mickie vs. Rayne at the PPV.

2 -- SANGRIENTO vs. SUICIDE

Time for the filler portion of the show, based on the way TNA presented this segment compared to the rest of the show. The announcers reinforced this as filler by focusing on the other big storylines going on in TNA. Sang and Suicide traded offense in and out of the ring early on. Sangriento looked like Waltman with a roundhouse kick in the corner for a two count. The two masked men then traded big moves before Sangriento hit a springboard cutter for the three count and the win.

WINNER: Sangriento at 3:40. Filler highspot match continuing to introduce the Sangriento character.

Interjection: Mick Foley is the rep for 'The Network' and Chyna is Kurt Angle's partner at this Sunday's PPV against Jeff Jarrett and Karen Jarrett.

3 -- ABYSS vs. CRIMSON vs. SAMOA JOE

The bell sounded and Joe started throwing bombs on the other two opponents. Crimson eventually cut him off, then went to work on Abyss. Abyss was knocked down, then Crimson and Joe came face-to-face trading blows. Crimson continued to use a cravate to neutralize Joe, who escaped, only to take the Black Hole Slam from Abyss. Crimson then popped up and speared Abyss before covering Joe for the win.

Post-match: Crimson played to the crowd for seemingly hours as Joe stalked him from behind a la Kurt Angle's TNA debut years ago. Abyss suddenly blindsided Crimson, taking care of Joe's dirty work for the night. Joe gave Abyss the okay, then slipped out of the ring and left. Meanwhile, Abyss dropped Crimson with the Black Hole Slam. The camera zoomed in on Abyss's mouth, where there was a huge gap due to his lost teeth. Wolfman stood tall ahead of the singles match vs. Crimson at the PPV.

WINNER: Crimson at 2:29.

4 -- 25-MAN BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender to TNA World Title

The bell sounded and Tenay noted he doesn't think Eric Young realizes he's in the battle royal. Morgan quickly eliminated British Invasion, then chucked out Orlando Jordan after he tried to rub up against Morgan. Morgan then took out Anarquia. Tenay recapped the program's name change to Impact Wrestling and said "massive changes are coming" and they can only wonder what's next starting next week. Young finally decided to enter the match after running the ropes a la Ultimate Warrior. Morgan was just towering over everyone here. Meanwhile, Young kept doing ten punches in the corner on anyone he could find.

Neal went flying out. Hernandez then press-slammed Moore on to Neal. Moments later, Morgan emphatically disposed of Robbie E. Young, after skinning the cat, eliminated TV champ Gunner. Young then flipped in and out of the ring a la the Tough Enough Skills Challenge before eliminating himself. Young grabbed the TV Title from Val and left, with Gunner giving chase. More of the battle royal up next.

Tenay welcomed viewers back to "Impact Wrestling" with about the same number of wrestlers still in the ring. Karen made a save for Jeff from ringside as bodies continued to move around in the ring. Suddenly, Kaz went flying over the top rope and he quickly grabbed his left knee to sell an injury. Hardy and Storm then eliminated each other and referees had to separate them. Hardy then snuck back into the ring to eliminate Roode, who chased Hardy away.

Suddenly, Mick Foley was on commentary. Foley said wrestling does matter and he's looking forward to what goes on in the ring. Morgan then clotheslined Hernandez over the top. Meanwhile, Scott Steiner dumped Morgan. Ray then eliminated Steiner from behind. They were down to about eight men. Meanwhile, Morgan rammed Steiner into the base of the announce table. The camera focused on Ray, who held up Anderson for Dreamer to deliver right hands to the gut. Foley said he wants to settle things inside the ring now. With a battle royal? The battle royal continued with Pope eliminating Devon. Pope had a good laugh, then Angle stalked Pope and eliminated him over the top rope. The commercial break music played as the camera zoomed in on Dreamer slowly walking around the ring sporting his over-sized t-shirt. Yes, Impact Wrestling is back after the break.

Back from break, Tenay said Ray almost eliminated Angle during the break. Taz added there was not an elimination during the break. Dreamer focused on Styles while the other wrestlers took a breather. Moments later, Dreamer eliminated Styles per Ray's instructions. Ray then eliminated Dreamer to screw him over. So, it was Angle, Jarrett, Anderson, and Ray in the final four. Styles and Dreamer fought ringside while Angle and Jarrett paired off and Anderson and Ray paired off in the ring.

Karen got involved trying to prevent Jarrett from being thrown over the top. Jarrett then shoved Anderson through the middle ropes, so Anderson was safe. Ray was also shoved through the ropes. In the ring, Angle and Jarrett battled as the last two unofficially in the ring. Karen got involved again from the outside, so Angle was distracted. Jarrett then eliminated Angle. Cue up the Jarretts with a pre-mature celebration. Chyna eventually slid into the ring and dumped Jarrett over the top rope. Apparently that counted as an elimination. Chyna then grabbed Karen, but Jeff pulled Karen to safety. The Jarretts went running for the hills, then Chyna and Angle headed to the back.

So, it was down to Anderson and Ray, who crawled into the ring together. They traded blows as Tenay said "someone is leaving Impact Wrestling" with a future title shot. Ray eventually knocked down Anderson before trying to eliminate him, but Anderson saved himself and landed a right hand blow. Anderson then wanted a top rope dive, but Ray got his knees up. Anderson saved himself from elimination standing on the ring apron, then Anderson slowly pulled Ray over the top rope and Ray hit the ground to give Anderson the win.

WINNER: Anderson at 28:05 to become #1 contender to the TNA World Title after Sacrifice. The show might have a different name, but it's the same illogical booking. Chyna, who was not in the match, eliminates Jarrett and the announcers don't blink an eye? Overall, an awful start to the abrupt "Impact Wrestling" initiative with a three-way and battle royal following the announcement. One audience (people who knew about the change from the TV taping last week) were sent mixed signals about what exactly was changing for two weeks. The other audience (casual viewers who don't follow the product online) were taken off-guard by a random announcement that really didn't mean anything at the end of the day. TNA will have to do a better job explaining this to their entire audience in the weeks to come.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2011, 10:38 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50016.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Michael P.S. Hayes)

Basic mat wrestling to start as Hayes leaned against the apron surveying the start of the match. Kidd then rolled out of the ring and received some instructions from Hayes. Matt Striker noted Hayes's background as a heel before Korpela broke down Hayes's wrestling background. Barreta scored with a dropkick, then a double clothesline put both men on the mat. Ref Nunzio administered a ten count, then Kidd landed a corner attack drawing a smile from Hayes.

Back from break, Kidd maintained control on Barreta as Hayes continued to look on. Kidd then hung Barreta upside down in the corner and they went to a unique camera shot right behind Barreta to show him hung upside down. Barreta escaped, then flipped up top and scored with a moonsault splash for a two count. Hayes shook his head, then Barreta followed with a corner elbow smash on Kidd. Barreta then found himself in the ropes, where Kidd executed an overhead release suplex for another nearfall.

Barreta escaped the Sharpshooter and rolled up Kidd for a close two count. Kidd came right back with a leg whip, then wanted a springboard elbow smash, but Barreta got his knees up. Barreta with a flying leg kick, and it was good for a two count only. Barreta tried to follow with his Dudebuster DDT, but Kidd countered into the Sharpshooter for the submission win.

Post-match: Hayes smirked and walked into the ring to congratulate Kidd on the hard-fought win. After a replay of the high points in the match, Hayes gave Kidd some post-match wisdom before they called it a night.

WINNER: Kidd via submission at 9:44. Very good nearfalls at the end of this one. Hayes didn't look comfortable in his role at times and the chemistry between Kidd and Hayes needs some time to develop, assuming this lasts longer than one week as McMahon's Flavor of the Week idea. (**1/2)

2 -- KOZLOV vs. ZACK RYDER

After the opening bell, Kozlov stalked his prey, prompting Ryder to back away to the corner. Mathews plugged Ryder's YouTube show, but said he doesn't like that Stanford is on the show. Stanford said Mathews should come up with a hidden talent to be featured on the program. Ryder started getting frustrated with Kozlov's attack and shouted in his face, "You serious?!" Kozlov responded with serious head butts to the chest, followed by a clothesline over the top rope to the floor.

On the floor, Kozlov tried to run Ryder into the ringpost, but Ryder slipped out and rammed Kozlov forehead-first into the post. Back in the ring, Ryder quickly seized an opening to inflict more pain on Kozlov. After some stomps and kicks, Ryder scored with a neckbreaker for a nearfall before locking in a rear naked choke. Kozlov escaped, but fought some knees to the face in the corner. Ryder tried ten punches, but Kozlov shoved him away, then flipped him over the top rope to the floor.

On the floor, Kozlov quickly threw Ryder back inside the ring. Suddenly, Curt Hawkins ran down to ringside and grabbed Kozlov's foot. Kozlov threw him away, but turned his back to Ryder. Ryder took advantage with the Rough Ryder and it was good for the win. Post-match: Hawkins and Ryder celebrated ringside as Stanford quickly revisited their tag team background. Ryder taunted Kozlov from the floor, saying the "Broskis are back."

WINNER: Ryder at 5:00. Better-than-expected for a potentially awkward match-up. It will be interesting to see if the Broskis can get some TV time on Raw or if they'll simply do tag work on Superstars going forward. It's definitely a step forward for Hawkins, but it could be a step back for Ryder if WWE doesn't do something with the reunited tandem. (*)

3 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Stanford noted both men were drafted over from Smackdown and are looking to make a mark on Raw. Stanford also revisited the time when McIntyre was relevant as the "chosen one." He also relayed a storyline from McIntyre's view that he felt he was ruined on Smackdown by the blue brand's politics. Masters teased the Masterlock early on, and McIntyre quickly scampered to the corner to avoid the hold. Masters then followed with a big atomic drop that could have ended McIntyre's family line for a nearfall.

Mac rolled to the outside for a breather. Back in the ring, Mac took out Masters's left knee and began working the joints. McIntyre then wrapped Masters's leg around the ringpost with a figure-four leglock. McIntyre flashed his new evil smile toward the crowd as they cut to break.

Back from break, Stanford said this is a main event compared to Saturday's boxing fight. Let's not push it, Scott. Mac continued to focus his attack on Masters's left knee, but he couldn't put him away. Masters then tried a scoop slam, but he couldn't get any lift on the bad wheel and Mac slammed him to the mat. More damage to the left knee and Mac flashed a smile to the less-than-appreciative crowd.

Mac teased a figure-four, but Masters booted him to the floor. Mac, upset, ran back into the ring to take a spinebuster from Masters. Masters followed with chops, then a sky-high bomb on one leg for a two count. Masters nearly found himself in the Future Shock DDT moments later, but Masters escaped. The two big men then traded backslide attempts, Mac teased the Future Shock again, and Mac eventually ran shoulder-first into the ringpost. Masters slowly followed up with the Masterlock and Mac was forced to give it up. Masters with the win.

Post-match: Stanford claimed Masters got himself noticed with the win here. They replayed Mac's big mistake at the end that allowed Masters to lock in the Masterlock for the win. Back in the ring, Masters admired his work and played to the crowd as Mac recovered on the floor to conclude the show.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 10:36. Exactly what you would expect from Masters and McIntyre. Masters has certainly put in the time on Superstars lately to get a look on the main Raw show, while McIntyre is just filling a slot right now until WWE figures out what to do with him. Good main event, overall. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 15 2011, 12:24 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's com plete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50039.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SIN CARA vs. DANIEL BRYAN

The bell sounded and the arena remained bathed in the dark blue mood lighting. It looks amateurish. Bryan and Cara exchanged holds early on before Cara executed a handspring elbow smash that sent Bryan to the floor. Cara then came flying over the top rope with a flip dive that dropped Bryan on the floor. Chavo said that was impressive. They cut to break two minutes in.

They returned from break four minutes later with Cara landing a series of head butts to the mid-section in the corner. Bryan then came off the top with a big missile dropkick for a nearfall. Bryan continued to play the aggressor landing multiple kick strikes in the corner. The crowd tried to rally behind Cara, who took a corner strike from Bryan for a nearfall. Bryan then applied a surfboard stretch center-ring as Chavo noted that's one of his moves. From the stretch position, Bryan then threw Sin Cara into the air into a bridge suplex pin for a nearfall. That was quite unique. Chavo continued to make notes on what he'll share with Sin Cara after the match.

Bryan wore down Cara some more before re-applying a submission hold targeting the left shoulder. Sin Cara then built some momentum with a comeback before Bryan landed a European uppercut. Sin Cara came back with an enziguiri kick from the apron before nailing a springboard cross-body for a close two count. Sin Cara then went for another handspring elbow, but Bryan blocked with a submission attempt. Sin Cara fought the hold, flung Bryan to the outside, then slid to the floor, but Bryan popped him with a kick strike.

Back in the ring, Bryan went for a springboard move, but Chavo grabbed his foot. Bryan flung Chavo away, but the distraction gave Sin Cara an opening to deliver a step-up enziguiri kick on Bryan. Sin Cara then approached Bryan up top, waited for the crowd to rise to their feet, and Sin Cara executed his back flip press slam from the top rope for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 11:48. Very nice TV match that really could have made a difference for Bryan if promoted ahead of time. It was interesting seeing Bryan in the aggressor role being able to show off his offensive arsenal building toward Sin Cara's comeback in the underdog role. Chavo and Sin Cara have an interesting little story going with Chavo trying to hitch his wagon to a hot new star, which will lead to Chavo turning on Sin Cara for not accepting his counsel. (**1/2)

2 -- Intercontinental champion WADE BARRETT (w/The Corre) vs. WWE tag champion KANE -- non-title match

Kane went to work on Barrett early on as the announcers continued to debate Jackson's cut. Booker then demanded Slater and Gabriel be removed from ringside since they don't have a manager's license. Cole of course jumped on that with a sarcastic laugh and said it's not 1985. Some of the follow-up commentary was disjointed, apparently from post-production edits, and the show cut to break with Barrett recovering on the floor.

Back from break, Barrett was working on Kane's left shoulder, trying to wear him down. Cole continued to rant & rave that Corre does not need Ezekiel Jackson. Kane fought back from his knees against Barrett, who then caught him with a sidewalk slam for a two count. Kane then came back with clotheslines in the corner followed by his own sidewalk slam.

Corre provided a distraction, though, and Barrett teased Wasteland, but Kane slipped out and landed a boot to the face. Kane then bailed to the floor and smashed the former tag champs. Kane climbed back into the ring, climbed up top, and landed a flying clothesline. Kane called for the end, but Corre hit the ring for an attack, drawing a DQ.

Post-match: Corre went after Kane like a pack of wolves for a few moments. The crowd was looking for a save here. Barrett then lifted up Kane and delivered Wasteland center ring. Next, Slater positioned Kane in the corner and Gabriel made his way up top. Before Gabriel could set up, Ezekiel Jackson's music hit and Zeke stormed the ring to attack Slater and Gabriel. Jackson and Heath had a bit of an awkward tussle before Jackson cleared both of them from the ring. Barrett attacked Jackson, though, to cut him off. Barrett turned his back and Jackson attacked him before Slater and Gabriel saved Barrett.

Corre beat down Jackson like a pack of wolves. Ref Armstrong tried to get Corre out of the ring, but Slater delivered his finisher on Jackson. Gabriel then went up top and measured Jackson before delivering his 450 splash. Slater screamed down that Zeke's not so big now. Barrett, Slater, and Gabriel then stood tall in the ring before their music played.

WINNER: Kane via DQ at 8:57. Corre had a better week than Nexus, that's for sure. The match itself was above-expectations, although Kane remains physically limited in the ring. (*1/2)

3 -- CODY RHODES vs. TED DIBIASE

The two men locked up as Cole recapped their Legacy background. Meanwhile, ringside fans were shown wearing the bags. In the ring, Rhodes and DiBiase traded pin attempts before Rhodes took time to scream out to the fans to put the paper bags on. Rhodes then blasted DiBiase with a step-up enziguiri kick out of the corner. Rhodes followed up with Cross Rhodes and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes at 3:15. Pretty much a squash win for Rhodes, who continues to carry himself like a future top heel on Smackdown. Meanwhile, DiBiase is stuck in no-man's land as neither face nor heel, nor relevant. (*)

4 - World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON & CHRISTIAN vs. SHEAMUS & MARK HENRY

Sheamus and Christian started things off in the ring feeling each other out. Meanwhile, Booker picked up a discussion disagreeing with Teddy Long booking the World Title match last week. Cole pulled a TNA defending Long that it's about business, TV ratings, and "the product." That unproductive "insider talk" on a wrestling show is made even more eye-rolling coming from Heel Cole. Orton tagged in and confidently decked Henry on the mat. Orton flashed a smile toward Sheamus, but then found himself on the floor. Booker halted the conversation to stress Orton was in peril as they cut to break.

Back from break, Henry was dominating Orton center-ring. Henry missed with a big splash, though, and Orton made a tag to Christian. Henry wouldn't go down after some clotheslines, so Christian went to the second rope to deliver a big dropkick. The heels then cut off Christian and began working him over in their corner. Nice work from Henry and Sheamus keeping things interesting as they tagged in and out. Christian then escaped Sheamus and made a tag to Orton, who came in hot on Sheamus.

Orton knocked Henry off the ring apron, then caught Sheamus with the snap powerslam. Sheamus found himself on the apron, where Orton tried the spike DDT, but Sheamus slipped out and hit the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count. Sheamus then stalked Orton for the Brogue Kick, but Orton ducked and Sheamus spilled over the top rope. Orton then capitalized with a spike DDT from the middle rope. Orton wanted the RKO, but Sheamus shoved him away and Christian blind-tagged in. Christian snuck up behind Sheamus and dropped him with the Unprettier as Orton simultaneously (off by a second or two) dropped a charging Henry with the RKO. Christian with the cover on Sheamus for the win.

Post-match: Christian and Orton had their hands raised before they came together for a friendly stare down. Orton extended his hand and Christian accepted. Orton then put the World Title belt out there for Christian to get a good look at. Christian smirked as the show closed with the two men standing tall center-ring.

WINNER: Christian & Orton at 15:02. Fine tag match continuing to build tension between Christian and Orton ahead of their face vs. face title encounter in nine days. The interesting story beneath the surface is Christian being too calm and respectable of Orton for someone who had his title dream shattered last week, as Booker pointed out. It makes Christian a subtly dangerous title contender capable of exploding at any moment, which is a nice touch. If Cole were removed from the equation distracting from the TV stories, the announcers could actually reinforce that intriguing plotline. Meanwhile, Sheamus could use a few credible wins to re-establish his dominance and finishing moves on Smackdown before he becomes a difference-maker on the show. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 16 2011, 01:27 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results: 5-15-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_50080.shtml)

1 -- MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/KO tag champs Sarita and Rosita) vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL)

The women got involved early and often, but Moore and Neal were able to make comebacks following the heels gaining illegal advantages. Moore then hit a springboard moonsault on Hernandez ringside that drew a reaction. Sarita then took her interference a step forward by slipping into the ring to attack Moore from behind with the ref distracted. HernArquia took advantage of the third instance of interference to isolate Moore for an extended length of time. Moore then avoided a top rope attack and hit a moonsault on Anarquia. Neal hot-tagged into the match and clobbered the heels. The action broke down with some awkward spots ensuing. Rosita then interfered again and the action broke down even further. Eventually, Hernandez gave Neal a shoulderbreaker and scored the win.

WINNERS: Hernandez & Anarquia at 9:39. That was pretty laughable at times. Awkward spots, Anarquia continues to look like a bad independent wrestler with a deer-in-the-headlights look, there was enough blatant interference to fill an entire PPV, plenty of referee incompetence, and a decision that ultimately meant nothing. A flying start for the Impact Wrestling era with the same ol', same ol' in TNA. (*)

2 -- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie)

Kendrick started the match seated in the ring covering himself with his karate gi. Robbie screamed at him to wake up, then Kendrick popped him with a clothesline. The announcers continued to talk about this X Division re-definition idea, when all it should be about is winning and losing matches. Kendrick continued to wrestle in his robe before finding himself on the floor face-to-face with a screaming Cookie. Back in the ring, Kendrick found a clothesline from Robbie that sent Kendrick back to the floor. Robbie waited for Kendrick to re-enter the ring and the camera picked up on Kendrick having a big cut across his lip.

Kendrick, still in his robe, was victimized by the robe when Robbie choked him with it before throwing him to the floor. Robbie executed a suplex on the floor, then Cookie put a boot in Kendrick's throat. Kendrick, crawling on the floor looking like a small child in his over-sized robe, then landed a standing kick when Robbie tried to follow out. Back in the ring, Kendrick came off the top with a missile dropkick, then he dramatically dropped the robe at 5:55.

They came to a standstill and appeared to call for the finish. Moments later, Robbie cut off Kendrick and wanted a neckbreaker, but Kendrick shoved him off and landed a leg whip for the pin. Post-match: Kendrick resumed a yoga position to re-enter his trance as blood covered his mouth. Kendrick grabbed ref Hebner's arm, then extended his hand to Robbie, who asked what's wrong with him. They eventually played tug-of-war with Cookie before Robbie rescued her to safety.

WINNER: Kendrick at 6:41. That was so bizarre. It came across like amateur hour out there. Kendrick does a great job with his character, but, like Eric Young, there's no context to the character since there's no foundation to what goes on in TNA. (*1/2)

3 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES vs. MADISON RAYNE -- Knockouts Title match -- if Mickie wins, Tara is free from Rayne

Moments after the bell sounded, Tara came to ringside, which drew a stern tongue-lashing from Madison. Mickie and Rayne went back and forth early on before the ref was bumped. Madison then tried to use an illegal object from the outside, but Tara yanked it away from her. Champ and challenger traded close nearfalls before Tara entered the ring with a loaded glove. She acted conflicted on which wrestler to pop, then she dropped Madison and Mickie made the cover for the win. Ringside, Tara celebrated her freedom while Mickie celebrated with the belt.

WINNER: James at 6:57 to retain the KO Title. Same ol' interference-filled booking continues tonight. The silver lining was a good payoff for viewers interested in seeing Tara finally drop Madison. (*1/2)

4 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. MAX BUCK -- X Division Title match

Max continued to play up his cocky heel persona flashing a smirk to the camera after early offense against Kaz. The announcers continued to promote the ridiculous X Division vs. Bischoff storyline, with the wrestlers having to "prove they belong" or needing to "earn a spot." TNA should promote itself as such a premiere platform for pro wrestlers to compete that everyone on the roster has already earned a spot and deserves to be featured. That "you're not a star" rhetoric brings down the entire promotion.

At 7:30, Kaz went for his reverse piledriver finisher, but Max escaped and scored with a nearfall on a leg whip. Kaz then popped up and showed some fire, trying to wake up a sleepy crowd. Max then followed up with a running buckle bomb in the corner before executing a snap neckbreaker from the second rope for a two count. Max then went up top and landed a big 450 splash, but Kaz kicked out in time. Max then taunted Kaz, who slowly came to his feet, blocked a suplex, and hung Mux out to dry across the top rope. Kaz followed with a dangerous-looking sunset flip powerbomb that sent the back of Max's head directly into the floor. It wasn't good for a pin, though, as Kaz rolled Max back into the ring and scored a two count. Moments after that scary-looking bump, the crowd chanted, "This is wrestling."

Moments later, Kaz tried the reverse piledriver for a third time, but Max slipped out. Kaz then nailed a Shining Wizard for the pin and the win. Kaz retains. Afterward, the announcers talked up Kaz adjusting his gameplan to finish off Max with a new maneuver. They went to a replay of high points from the match before Tenay went back to asking how Bischoff could disrespect the X Division wrestlers after that match. Kaz was shown holding up the title belt as Tenay said that's what Impact Wrestling is about.

WINNER: Kazarian at 11:21 to retain the X Division Title. Stronger second-half than the first-half. Good nearfalls at the end that actually got a sleepy crowd involved in the action. (**1/2)

5 -- ABYSS vs. CRIMSON

The bell sounded and the two men stayed in their respective corners before meeting center-ring. The match quickly moved to the floor, where Abyss smashed Crimson into the guardrail and ring steps. Back in the ring, Abyss stalked Crimson while also taunting the ringside fans. Abyss landed a big corner splash before going to a neck vice. Crimson eventually broke free and made a comeback before applying his cravate into a neckbreaker for a two count. Crimson missed with a corner attack, then Abyss goozled him and delivered a chokeslam for a nearfall.

It wouldn't be a TNA PPV without Abyss going under the ring in search of a weapon. He rediscovered Janice, much to the crowd's horror. Abyss re-entered the ring with Janice in-hand, scared away ref Mike Posey, and stalked Crimson. Crimson ducked a Janice shot, though, and nailed a spear for a two count. Abyss then cut off Crimson with a boot to the head and wanted the Shock Treatment, but Crimson countered with a Cactus Jack-style double underhook DDT. It was only good for a two count, though.

Abyss stumbled out of the ring after the nearfall, then yanked a curious Crimson head-first across the top rope. Back in the ring, Abyss wanted a Vader Bomb, and he connected. Abyss made the cover, but Crimson kicked out. Crimson slowly made his way to his feet after taking the nearfall, then Abyss missed with a corner attack. Crimson followed with a sky-high bomb and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Crimson at 10:43. Serviceable big-man match. It's typically difficult to pull off a match with big men trading big moves and nearfalls for ten minutes, but it was above-expectations. (**)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 16 2011, 01:28 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results (continued)

6 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. MATT HARDY & CHRIS HARRIS -- TNA Tag Title match

Harris, who was sporting his old AMW trunks, wanted to start it off with his former tag partner, Storm, but immediately tagged out to Hardy. In the early going, the two teams traded control and the partners tagged in and out throughout. Harris then spewed beer in Storm's face to give the heels control. Harris took advantage by landing some punches on his former tag partner before quickly tagging out.

The action temporarily broke down at 6:00 before Roode scored a close nearfall on Harris with a fisherman suplex. Roode then tried to tag in Storm, but Hardy cut off Storm on the floor. Hardy then resumed control of the match in the ring, working on Roode's lower back. The heels traded tags working on Roode's lower back as Taz discussed Harris not appearing to be in ring shape. Hardy and Roode then bumped heads center-ring for a double knock down. Harris then tagged in and spit in Storm's face.

Roode broke free and tagged in Storm and Harris realized Hardy was nowhere to be found. Storm stalked Harris to finally get his hands on Harris, who took a series of clotheslines. Storm with ten punches from the mount position. Then, six more. Storm continued to wail away at Harris before landing a DDT for a nearfall when Hardy broke up a pin. Roode then tossed Hardy to the floor and put a boot in his chest.

In the ring, Storm landed a sort of twisting DDT from the second rope for a nearfall. Beer Money stalked Harris for the DWI, but Hardy broke it up. Hardy with the side effect on Roode. Storm countered Twist of Hate with a backstabber, then Harris dropped Storm with a spinebuster. Roode followed with a better spinebuster on Harris. Beer Money then did their chant before setting up Harris for the DWI. Storm had second thoughts and went up top for the old-school AMW guillotine leg drop. Storm with the cover on Harris for the win.

WINNERS: Beer Money at 13:51. Beer Money didn't exactly have good opponents to work with, so the match was below their standards. Harris looked very rusty, which is being nice, and the match didn't seem to have any flow leading to the finish. The crowd didn't really buy into the match story since Harris was randomly re-introduced on TV this week and most people probably had no idea who Harris is. The payoff for Storm would have been stronger with some foresight to re-introduce Harris ahead of time. (**)

7 -- A.J. STYLES vs. TOMMY DREAMER -- No DQ match

The bell sounded and the two men came face-to-face. Styles yelled in Dreamer's face, then Dreamer paced the ring before locking up. Dreamer sold reluctance to really give it to Styles, who screamed in his face. Styles then caught Dreamer in an armbar and Dreamer begged for a break, but ref Jackson James said it's No DQ. Dreamer continued to beg, then Styles dropped the hold and screamed at him to wrestle. Styles tried to follow with a corner attack, but Dreamer dropped him with a standing kick that folded up Styles on the mat. Dreamer then picked up an attack and scored a few nearfalls.

Styles shook off the attack and landed a dropsault before landing a plancha on the floor. Styles showed intensity shouting to the crowd, trying to wake them up. Still on the floor, Styles threw water in Dreamer's face. The announcers brought up EV2 and Taz said under his breath that ship has sailed...thankfully. Styles then crotched Dreamer across the guardrail before sliding underneath the guardrail to deliver a springboard elbow smash off the guardrail. "How do you get spring off a steel guardrail?" Tenay said.

The action moved up the steps up of the IWZ into the bleacher seats, clearing a few tourists. Styles clotheslined Dreamer over the bleacher railing and Dreamer landed on the floor with a thud. Styles tried to follow up, but Dreamer rammed him into the base of the bleachers. Dreamer dumped Styles back to ringside, then went looking for a trash can filled with weapons. Styles, who had a cut around his left eye, proceeded to dropkick the trash can into Dreamer's face. Styles then went looking for a table under the ring that he introduced into the ring. Some people in the crowd chanted for fire, apparently still stuck in 1998. Styles then went running off the table with a corner splash on Dreamer, which drew a reaction from the crowd. Styles tried a suplex onto the table, but Dreamer countered with a DDT.

Dreamer retrieved a fork, flashing back to when Styles used a fork on Dreamer. Dreamer taunted Styles with it, but Styles blocked Dreamer and cracked a trash can over Dreamer's head. Styles then wanted a Styles Clash into the table, but Bully Ray stormed the ring and popped Styles with a chain. Daniels then came running into the ring to chase off Ray. Back in the ring, Dreamer set up Styles for a piledriver through a table that seemed to take more out of Dreamer than Styles. Dreamer made a cover for the win. Tenay quickly noted the win was due to Ray's interference.

WINNER: Dreamer at 13:04. Did Dreamer just pin Styles in a close-to-the-main-event PPV match in the year 2011? As for the weapons and stunt bumps, it's long over-due for TNA - and pro wrestling in general - to move on from this type of match. (*1/2)

8 -- JEFF JARRETT & KAREN JARRETT vs. KURT ANGLE & CHYNA -- Mixed tag match

The bell sounded and the crowd was awake for Angle, who flashed a big smile to Jeff, who continued to sell concern with the proceedings here. The fans taunted Karen with a chant of, "Chyna's gonna kill you." Taz got confused on the chant and declared it's all fun & games at Sacrifice. The crowd then chanted for Chyna and Angle obliged. Karen opted not to enter the ring and dipped to the outside trying to avoid Chyna, who was patient in the ring waiting for Karen. Jeff sold concern as Karen slowly approached the ring apron.

Suddenly, Jeff was legal, making Kurt legal. Jeff put the boots to Kurt before hugging it out with Karen. Kurt then slapped on an anklelock and Karen entered the ring, which occupied Kurt's attention. Kurt tried to bring Karen to Chyna, but Jeff cut off Kurt at the knees from behind. The crowd chanted for Chyna again while Jeff continued to work on Kurt. The two men traded control of the match before Angle landed an Angle Slam for a two count. "Get up!" Karen screamed.

Kurt then dragged Jeff to the corner and Jeff used a mule kick behind the ref's back. Kurt crawled over to Chyna, though, and Chyna entered the match. Chyna nearly injured everyone on a scoop slam to Jeff, but followed with a better suplex on Jeff. Chyna then stalked Karen into the ring where Karen found Kurt as a roadblock. Kurt gave directions to Chyna, who landed a big corner splash on Karen. Next was a DDT of sorts before stereo anklelocks were applied. The Jarretts tapped out, giving Kurt and Chyna the win. Taz said ex-husbands are rejoicing around the world. More of that women-hating theme from TNA's writers. After a replay, Kurt and Chyna left the ring in celebratory mode. Meanwhile, Jeff checked on Karen, who remained face-down in the ring.

WINNERS: Angle & Chyna at 10:19. Solid payoff for people who paid to see the Jarretts get their comeuppance and/or see a bit of Chyna, who was clearly limited in what she was capable of doing. TNA smartly limited her exposure and saved her big spots for the end of the match. It was also a night-off for Angle, who needs to be protected in the ring considering his health. This was the first match on the card the audience truly invested in, and it featured someone (Chyna) who had never been in the company before last week's TV. (n/a)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 16 2011, 01:30 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results (concluded)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. ROB VAN DAM -- TNA World Title match

Sting and Rob started with a feeling-out process before RVD acted cocky turning his back on Sting to pose in the corner. Sting then locked up and shoved him to the floor. RVD calmly paced the ringside area before returning to the ring to deliver a martial arts kick to Sting. RVD then posed some more and continued to play up a cocky demeanor. Anderson noted RVD is taking a different approach here. RVD resumed an attack with kicks and strikes in the corner. RVD missed with a corner attack in the opposite corner and spilled to the floor.

The action spilled into the stands where Sting did the same spot Dreamer did on Styles whipping him into the base of the grandstands. RVD reversed a second whip and both men collapsed to the floor. RVD was selling a right knee injury after missing with an earlier guillotine leg attempt. And the two men walked up the steps into the grandstands to continue their brawl. Did the agents who put together Dreamer-Styles and Sting-RVD not come together and make sure this walking-brawl style match was protected for the main event so Styles-Dreamer didn't take away the novelty of seeing this? The two men continued to brawl in the stands before eventually making it back to ringside. Ref Hebner was letting it all go since there typically would have been a count-out by now.

Back in the ring, RVD climbed up top and nailed a martial arts kick that floored Sting. Rob wanted Rolling Thunder, but Sting got his knees up to block. Sting then came to his feet and pounded his chest to fire up the crowd. Sting made his comeback and tried a Stinger Splash, but RVD countered with a roundhouse kick to intercept Sting. Sting and RVD traded control, then they slipped on a Scorpion Death drop spot. It hit the crowd with a thud. Sting then picked up RVD and re-executed the Death drop. Sting made a cover and it was good for a win, which seemed anticlimactic coming right after the botched spot.

WINNER: Sting at 12:43 to retain the TNA World Title. Obviously better than PPV title defense #1 vs. Hardy and better than PPV title defense #2 last month vs. RVD and Anderson. But, the walking-brawl mid-way through the match took away from what could have been an opportunity for Sting and RVD to prove something in a singles main event spotlight. Instead, it came across like a cheap way to get through a main event going longer than ten minutes. (**)

Post-match: They went to a replay of the big spots in the match as Anderson noted he has something special for Sting this Thursday on Impact. Sting and RVD then shook hands and embraced in the ring as Anderson decided to go ahead and congratulate the champ. Anderson left the broadcast position and made his way to the ring. The trademarks flashed on the screen as Anderson entered the ring. Anderson and Sting then came face-to-face. The PPV signed off with Sting leery of Anderson, who just flashed a mild smile toward him.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2011, 01:49 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50107.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match

Kofi knocked Punk to the floor 35 seconds into the match, then Nexus started walking toward the ring, but Punk told them to back up and stay put. Kofi waited for Punk to turn around and delivered a dropkick through the ropes. Punk then cut off Kofi back in the ring and started working on Kofi's upper body with mat holds and strikes. Cole re-visited the "faith" talking about Punk's Nexus leadership, then Kofi dropkicked Punk off the top rope. Kofi followed with a high cross-body splash on Punk for a two count before hitting the Boom Drop. Kofi then set up for Trouble in Paradise, but Punk ducked. Kofi then got himself hung up in the top turnbuckle, allowing Punk to set up for the G2S and connect. Punk made the cover and scored the win.

Post-match: Nexus celebrated on-stage as Punk had his hand raised. Cole continued to uncomfortably equate Punk to Jesus, complete with a Doubting Thomas reference about the other Nexus members not showing faith. Punk was then shown sitting on the stage. He took the mic and said that was an example of leadership by example. Punk said he's heard all the rumors about Nexus not being formidable. He said he's doing things his way from now on. Punk said he won't stop until each member of Nexus is the most dominant force the WWE Universe has ever seen.

WINNER: Punk at 3:53. A typical WWE television match using a wrestling match as the means to advance or reinforce a storyline typically found in a drama series. The result could set up Kofi vs. Punk in a re-match for the U.S. Title at Over the Limit to help fill out the undercard. (*1/2)

2 -- KELLY KELLY vs. Divas champion BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) -- non-title match

After some basic back-and-forth, Kelly awkwardly trapped Brie with a leg scissors for a quick pin in under two minutes. Post-match: Kharma's music interrupted and she slowly entered the ring to evaluate her options. Kharma eventually selected Brie, causing Nikki to freak out and run away. Kharma delivered the implant buster while Nikki ran away. Kharma then stalked Kelly, who backed away in the corner. Kharma sized her up, flicked her forehead, and walked off doing her maniacal laugh, leaving Kelly breathless from fear.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:52. Basic Divas match as a means to the post-match, which continued Kharma's dual quest to apparently get the Divas Title and play mind games with the blonde Divas. (n/a)

3 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO

Rey scored with an early head scissors followed by a kick strike to the chest. Del Rio missed with a corner attack, but rebounded to catch Rey with a fallaway single arm DDT targeting the shoulder. Mathews sent the show to break, but they stayed with Del Rio scoring a dropkick to Rey's shoulder. Now the break squeezed in before the top of the hour.

Back from break, Del Rio was still working over Rey's shoulder. Rey built some steam looking for a comeback, but Del Rio cut him off with a boot to the head for a two count. Del Rio then reapplied a neck vice targeting the shoulder as they hit the top of the hour.

The crowd chanted, "619, 619," as Del Rio continued to wear down Rey. Mathews, who continues to play a spineless announcer drifting back and forth between heel and face, talked up Del Rio's wealth, which drew an annoyed, "What?" response from Lawler. Rey then popped Del Rio in the mouth, then Del Rio went flying through the ropes attempting a dropkick. Ricardo came flying around ringside to check on Del Rio, then R-Truth's voice suddenly interrupted. Truth was way up in the skyboxes accusing Rey of being a thief...a thief for stealing his spot. Truth told someone to call the cops. "Is he crazy?" Lawler asked under his breath.

Meanwhile, Del Rio slipped back into the ring and Rey landed a flying cross-body for a close two count. Rey then climbed up top and landed a seated sentaun into a head scissors. Rey had Del Rio set up for the 619, but Ricardo got in the way to intercept Rey, drawing a DQ. Post-match: Del Rio rammed Rey into the ringpost as Rey was announced as the winner. Del Rio then came off the top with a dive to Rey's injured shoulder. Del Rio flashed a big smile before leaving the ring.

As Rey recovered, the crowd then tried to warn Rey, who was attacked from behind by R-Truth. Truth verbally and physically beat down Rey before landing Paydirt center-ring. Truth was serenaded with boos before he leaned out for a mic. Truth asked Rey what he's doing. "Who do you think you are?" he asked. "Challenging me? No one challenges the Truth. I make the challenges, Rey. Just like I showed you tonight - look at me! - this Sunday, you gonna get got." Truth then popped Rey in the head with rapid-fire fist shots to send a message ahead of the PPV. Lawler noted he's not right in the head. Truth then slowly left the ring to boos while muttering under his breath about Rey taking his spot.

WINNER: Rey via DQ at 9:26. Basic match between Rey and Del Rio setting up the post-match with Truth, who is so great in his role. As for the pre-match discussion between Rey and Del Rio, WWE is clearly targeting the Hispanic audience, with WWE trying to heavily promote Mysterio as the babyface to rally behind. The promo dipped close to the lowest common denominator level typical with TNA's Mexican America faction, but the overall segment was effective setting up Rey for revenge against Truth on Sunday and Del Rio down the road. (*1/2)

4 -- WWE tag champions BIG SHOW & KANE vs. NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA w/Mason Ryan and C.M. Punk) -- non-title match

Kane blasted Mike with an early uppercut, followed by a scoop slam and running boot to the head for a nearfall. Show then tagged in and landed a big slap to Mike's chest. Mike then responded with a boot in the corner, followed by a chopblock to the back of the knee. Otunga tagged into the match to continue targeting Show's left knee. Otunga wasted a lot of movement dancing around Show before tagging Mike back in. Meanwhile, Cole continued to try to place nice with Lawler on commentary. Nexus's B-Team maintained control of Show's left knee, then Otunga decided he would try to target the right knee. Show fought him off, then executed a desperation belly-to-back side suplex.

Kane hot-tagged into the match and dropped Mike, who also tagged in, with a sidewalk slam for a nearfall. Kane then came off the top rope with a clothesline before giving Otunga a big boot. Nexus ran interference, which allowed Punk to smash Kane from behind. Mike followed with a blow to the head and it was good for the win. Post-match: Mike and Otunga celebrated in the ring as Punk tried to get everyone together to leave before Kane and Show woke up. Punk then taunted the tag champs from the entrance ramp ahead of their tag title match on Sunday.

WINNERS: Nexus at 4:48. Well, this week, WWE is trying to revive Nexus, but whether it's just a one-week gig to set up the Tag Title match remains to be seen. The whole faction just seems so last week after all the damage done to Nexus over the past six months since the TLC PPV in December.

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title No Holds Barred match

As Swagger beat down Cena to start the match, Cole heeled on Swagger that he would be nothing without him. The crowd engaged in a loud dueling chant of "Let's go Cena" vs. "Cena sucks" from the usual groups of fans. Swagger landed a Vader Bomb as the broadcast randomly cut to a camera swinging through the crowd to a shot of Miz and Riley standing on-stage. They cut to break with Swagger in control.

Back live, Swagger was wearing down Cena in the ring as Miz looked-on confidently from the stage. They cut to footage from during the break of action on the floor. Swagger then introduced a chair into the proceedings, landing a shot across the back. Swagger measured Cena for another Vader Bomb, this time with the chair on Cena's chest. Swagger landed the bomb, which appeared to hurt him more than Cena, and it was only good for a two count.

Swagger then wedged a chair in-between the turnbuckles, giving Cena an opening. Cena started a comeback, but Swagger caught him in mid-air with a botched suplex that resulted in a two count. Swagger went for the Anklelock, looking to make Cena quit, but Cena flung him away. Cena hobbled to his feet and side-stepped a charging Swagger, who ate the chair in the corner. That was way too close to a self-inflicted chair shot to the head.

At the top of the hour, Cena made his full comeback and waved toward Miz before dropping the Shuffle on Swagger. Cena then dropped Swagger with the Attitude Adjustment while staring down Miz. Cena followed with the STF and Swagger was forced to tap out - or "quit," as Lawler put it.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 11:22. Cole continued to heel on Swagger during the match, suggesting Swagger could still help Lawler win, but WWE sent mixed signals with Swagger tonight. The match was effective showing Cena fighting against a perceived stacked deck to preview the PPV on Sunday. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2011, 05:25 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50141.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- TITUS O'NEIL vs. TITUS YOUNG

Regal wanted to know where Young's Pro, Chavo, is. Meanwhile, Titus demanded Young tell him where Hornswoggle is. Titus continued to beat down Young. Suddenly, Chavo appeared on the Titantron. Apparently Hornswoggle was trapped inside a crate. Or, a sound effect indicated he was inside. Chavo went looking for some bolt cutters . Meanwhile, Titus retrieved Young's key necklace and bolted to the ring. Of course, this resulted in him being counted out.

Post-match: Titus found Hornswoggle in the crate backstage. Titus checked on Hornswoggle, then Chavo ran Titus into the crate. Chavo then sized up Hornswoggle, grabbed him by the beard, and told him he hasn't forgotten everything he did to him. Chavo said he has something real special for him. They cut to Young in the ring as Regal said he actually believed for weeks and weeks that Chavo had found some respect for Hornswoggle. Chavo dragged Horny to the ring, then pulled him up the ring steps into the ring. Once in the ring, Young and Chavo set up Hornswoggle for the frogsplash after tormenting him. Titus finally stormed the ring to make the save, then Chavo and Young bailed from the ring. Titus checked on the fallen Hornswoggle as they cut to break.

WINNER: Young via count-out at 3:11. Interesting twist on NXT's long-running storyline, but ugh on re-visiting the Hornswoggle vs. Chavo feud. Young showed good intensity as the high point of the segment.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. BYRON SAXTON

The bell sounded and the two men locked up. Regal said he doesn't think Saxton is in trouble tonight. He said he'll keep it to himself who he thinks will be cut tonight. Yoshi ripped off a knife-edge chop, then another. Saxton then begged off in an opposite corner and Yoshi stood his ground in the ring subtly telling Saxton to come on and fight. Yoshi absorbed a kick to the gut, then Saxton took control of the match with a hard whip to the corner.

Yoshi fired back with a roundhouse kick to the gut, then brushed Saxton with a flying knee strike to the face for a two count. Yoshi then went up top and nailed his top-rope finisher for the pin and the win. Regal said he hopes Saxton will review the tape and listen to his Pro to learn from his mistakes.

WINNER: Yoshi at 3:28. Nice showcase match for Yoshi being able to control a match and look like a star juxtaposed against his Rookie. Saxton showed good fire, which he's improved the past few weeks.

3 -- KOZLOV (w/Conor O'Brian) vs. JTG (w/Jacob Novak)

They returned from break with Kozlov and JTG in the ring. Apparently now they're having a wrestling match. JTG slapped Kozlov, drawing a return blow from Kozlov. Kozlov then knocked JTG to the floor right at the feet of Novak. Regal caused them a bunch of morons. JTG then shouted at Regal, who told him not to worry about him. Kozlov proceeded to throw JTG back into the ring, but Novak provided a distraction that allowed JTG to bump Kozlov off the ring apron into the announce table.

Back in the ring, JTG wore down Kozlov for a while. JTG then hit the Mug Shot and made a cover, but Kozlov kicked out. JTG continued to wear down Kozlov as Regal noted Novak has no redeeming qualities. Kozlov then no-sold JTG's attack, made a comeback, and landed multiple headbutts to the sternum. JTG slipped out of a shoulderbreaker, though, and landed a neckbreaker for a two count.

JTG went back to wearing down Kozlov before cockily going up top and playing to the crowd. He then came off the top and ate a flying headbutt from Kozlov. Kozlov followed with his Iron Curtain finisher for the pin and the win. Kozlov scores another victory over JTG tonight.

WINNER: Kozlov at 5:14. Fine action. Regal's commentary was the highlight of the night.

Ringside: The Rookies were assembled ringside. Maryse offered some non-thoughts, then Striker cued up the drumroll for this season's first elimination...Jacob Novak has been eliminated. Regal said he's very happy he's gone. Novak pounded the mat in mock anger, then Striker gave him some mic time.

Novak surveyed the arena and said that's twice now the people have shut him out. Novak said maybe NXT isn't the place he gets his redemption, but the bottom line is he will be in WWE and redemption will be he is. Novak said the day they don't flinch is the day he knocks them out. And that day is soon, he claimed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2011, 01:54 pm
TNA Impact! Results: 5-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_50187.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MADISON RAYNE & KO tag champions SARITA & ROSITA vs. KO champion MICKIE JAMES & TARA & MISS TESSMACHER

Prior to the match, the announcers recapped events at Sacrifice when Tara helped Mickie defeat Madison. Also prior to the match, Hernandez and Anarquia came out on-stage in support of Sarita & Rosita before joining commentary. The match built to Tara getting her hands on Madison, then the action broke down in and out of the ring. Suddenly, it came down to Tara, Madison, and Rosita. So, Madison threw Rosita to Tara, who delivered a sit-out bomb for the win. Madison then high-tailed it to the outside to taunt Tara that she can't get her.

WINNERS: Team Tara at 4:19. Simple build-up for the next phase of Tara and Madison's feud. Mickie doesn't have a clear next opponent for the Knockouts Title, though. (*)

2 -- X Division champion KAZARIAN vs. ABYSS -- X Division Title match

The bell sounded and Tenay re-stressed this could be the final X Division Title match. Taz said he agrees with Bischoff the X Division wrestlers need to get out of Bischoff's face. Tenay defended the X Division as a cornerstone of TNA since its inception. The match started and the announcers focused on Bischoff getting in the ring again. "Impact Wrestling: Where Bischoff Matters." Tenay continued to talk up the X Division's roots in TNA while Taz said he believes the X Division guys went about this the wrong way.

In the ring, Kazarian scored a missile dropkick that put both men on the mat. Kaz followed with a huracanrana and springboard back-elbow smash for a two count. Abyss and Kaz traded nearfalls with the crowd mic'ed up to sound very invested in the action. Abyss then caught Kaz with the Shock Treatment, but missed with a corner Vader Bomb. Abyss favored his right knee and the referee demanded Kaz give Abyss some space. Abyss then suckered Kaz in with a boot to the face before landing the Black Hole Slam. Abyss with the cover and the win. Taz wondered aloud about the future of the X Division. Tenay noted Abyss out-smarted Kazarian. Taz weirdly said the Internet is burning up right now. Does TNA think this is like Christian dropping the title after two days? Tenay then wondered if there will even be an X Division anymore after this. Cut to commercial.

WINNER: Abyss at 5:02 to capture the X Division Title. Strike Two... Does TNA think there's interest in an X Division "brand" that general viewers would care if it's here or not? It's about individual feuds with interesting wrestlers striving for goals and championships competing against each other. This whole angle is merely a small-minded attempt by TNA to play to the audience that follows the product closely through the Internet. (*1/2)

3 -- SAMOA JOE vs. AMAZING RED

Red charged Joe, who threw Red across the ring. Joe pounded on Red as Taz noted this is part of Bischoff's plan to destroy the X Division. Meanwhile, Tenay said Kaz is being checked for a back injury after the title match. Joe then nailed the Muscle buster and pinned Red in under one minute.

Post-match: Crimson hit the ring and the fight was on between Joe and Crimson. The bell continued to sound, then Crimson easily lifted Joe up for a t-bone suplex that cleared Joe to the outside. The announcers briefly noted the brotherly storyline relationship between Red and Crimson.

WINNER: Joe at 0:49. One step forward, one step backward for Joe, who looked good in the squash, then looked conquerable with how easily Crimson handled him in the post-match. (n/a)

4 -- ERIC BISCHOFF & MATT HARDY vs. GENERATION ME (MAX BUCK & JEREMY BUCK)

Jackson James (unacknowledged son of Eric) was the referee here. Is there a likable babyface in this match for viewers to root for? GenMe started things off working on Hardy's left arm. Jeremy taunted the non-wrestler, Eric, who pointed at him from the ring apron. Hardy then executed the side effect on Jeremy for a one count. Eric said he wants to finish them off, so Hardy landed another side effect. Hardy then locked in a cravate looking to wear down Jeremy, who fought back, allowing GenMe to double-team Hardy. Taz continued to side with Bischoff as Hardy fought off a two-on-one to resume control of the match. The announcers continued to focus on themselves before Jeremy came off the top with a big splash to Hardy's back for a nearfall.

Tenay suddenly got excited and relayed some information for next week that a big wrestling main event is going down...actually, two non-wrestlers, Hogan and Foley, will both be returning to the show next week. In the ring, Hardy slapped the Ice Pick on Max to wear him down, then tagged in Bischoff for his first appearance in the match. Bischoff measured Max and attempted a roundhouse kick, then another martial arts kick. Careful editing here. Bischoff made the cover on Max and scored a five count for the win. Bischoff, Hardy, and Jackson then stood tall center-ring as Tenay asked if that was the final bullet in the X Division.

WINNERS: Bischoff & Hardy at 6:09.

5 -- ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER vs. VELVET SKY -- handicap match

It's worth noting TNA hasn't announced a main event yet for this week's first official show in the Impact Wrestling era. The crowd tried to rally behind underdog Velvet throughout the match as she faced tough odds. Angelina, whose weakness as a person in a trance is she can't focus on the task at hand, lost control of the match, allowing Velvet to score a quick pin. After the match, a mystery woman suddenly jumped Velvet. It was a returning ODB, who choked her out ringside.

WINNER: Velvet at 4:36.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2011, 02:00 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50182.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Michael Hayes) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Yoshi recovered from the pre-match attack and cleared Kidd to the outside two minutes in. The ref remained heavily mic'ed shouting instructions to Hayes to back it up, then Yoshi delivered a big splash on the outside. On the floor, though, Kidd recovered and delivered a kick strike to the chest. Hayes found himself on the ring apron and started doing his strut. They cut to break with Kidd in control.

Back from break, Yoshi appeared to be asleep locked in a neck vice on the mat. Yoshi fought back to his feet, scored a sudden nearfall to give the fans some hope, then Kidd cut him off to resume the attack. Hayes continued to get involved by antagonizing Yoshi and the ref. Announcer Korpela was incensed - incensed! - by Hayes's constant involvement, demanding the higher-ups do something about this. Yoshi suddenly scored a nearfall with a crucifix pin, but Kidd avoided a follow-up dropkick and went back on the attack.

Kidd then lost control at 7:00 and Hayes tried to shout instructions at Kidd to get moving again. Yoshi then fired off a round of chops followed by a flying roundhouse kick to the head. Yoshi made the cover, but it was only good for a two count. Hayes then threw down his jacket in disgust and shouted at the ref he was quick-counting. Yoshi then went up top and Kidd crotched him. Hayes told Kidd to take it home, and Kidd executed a superplex. Hayes had a big smile on his face, but Yoshi kicked out of a pin attempt, drawing a frown from Hayes.

Kidd then stepped into the Sharpshooter and sat down on the hold center-ring. Yoshi found something extra in the tank and crawled to the bottom rope for a break. Kidd regrouped and went for a splash across the apron, but Yoshi moved out of the way. Suddenly, Yoshi countered an Owen Hart-style backwards roll-up into a small package for a nearfall, then popped up to his feet and nailed his kick strike finisher for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Hayes frowned at Yoshi as he left the ring, then entered the ring to share some words of encouragement for Kidd. Perhaps not, as Hayes picked up Kidd, then slapped him across the face. Hayes picked up his jacket and left the ring, telling Kidd he failed him and he has better things to do. Kidd sold anger as Hayes left to the back.

WINNER: Yoshi at 10:01. Very good ten-minute "TV" match. Superstars's quality of wrestling has certainly improved since being bounced from WGN. It will be interesting to see if WWE keeps the Kidd-Hayes thing going or if this was the end of the managerial experiment. (**1/2)

2 -- MAJOR BROSKIS (ZACK RYDER & CURT HAWKINS) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV

The announcers noted last week's events when Ryder picked up a win over Kozlov with Hawkins's help, reuniting the tandem. Before ref Nunzio called for the bell, the two teams teased a little skirmish at mid-field during warm-ups, but they were separated to formally begin the match. Santino taunted Hawkins with the Cobra, then delivered a sambo-style takeover. Kozlov tagged in and followed with his own version. Kozlov then shoulder-blocked Hawkins clear through the ropes to the floor. Ryder complained about his Broski partner struggling in the ring as they cut to break.

Back from break, the Broskis were magically in control of the action working over Kozlov. The Broskis continued to work over Kozlov as Scott Stanford noted the match he's most looking forward to at Over the Limit is Cole vs. Lawler. Yes, announcers > entire roster. Santino took a hot tag at 5:00, then the action broke down. Santino delivered the sailor's salute fist drop on Hawkins, then warmed up the Cobra and delivered it. Santino with the pin on Hawkins for the win.

WINNERS: Santino & Kozlov at 5:33. Basic babyface revenge match for Team Kozlov after events last week. And perhaps new material for Ryder on YouTube being partnered again with the weaker link of the Major Bros. team. (*)

3 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Bourne with some early mat wrestling on the much-larger McIntyre, who grabbed a headlock to wear down Bourne before delivering a clothesline. Mac then placed Bourne on the top rope, slowly backed away, and suddenly found Bourne flying at him with a rolling takeover. Mac slipped to the floor to pound the announce table in frustration, then he returned to the ring. McIntyre took a head scissors, but then knocked Bourne to the outside. They cut to break with Mac in control.

Back from break, McIntyre continued to wear down Bourne while flashing his sinister grin. Mac checked the imaginary watch on his wrist to indicate it's time to end it before delivering a terrific delayed vertical superplex. Mac was too cocky making the cover, allowing Bourne to kick out. On the apron, Mac wanted a running move of sorts, but Bourne slipped out and Mac ate the ring steps. Mathews noted he had no idea what McIntyre was looking for there.

Back in the ring, Bourne scored with multiple kick strikes for a two count. Mac recovered in the corner, then the director cut to a corner shot as Bourne came flying into the corner with a basement dropkick. Bourne wanted Air Bourne, but Mac slipped to the outside, and Bourne splashed him on the floor. Back in the ring, Mac blocked a huracanrana attempt into a running buckle bomb. Mac followed right up with the Future Shock DDT for the win. Mac took in the win, then quickly left the ring to taunt the crowd as Stanford signed off for this week.

WINNER: McIntyre at 6:30. Nice match with some good back-and-forth and McIntyre basing well for Bourne's offense. This could easily fill a TV segment on Raw delivering some good action showcasing two under-utilized stars.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2011, 08:05 am
Macho Man Randy Savage dies in car accident (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/post/Report-Randy-8216-Macho-Man-8217-Savage-die?urn=top-wp98)

"Macho Man" Randy Savage, a professional wrestler who became a fan favorite thanks to his outlandish outfits and trademark catchphrase, died Friday in a car wreck, as first reported by TMZ.
 
The 58-year-old Savage -- whose legal name was Randy Mario Poffo -- reportedly suffered a heart attack while driving his 2009 Jeep Wrangler in Tampa, Fla., and careened across lanes of oncoming traffic before colliding head-on with a tree. He died later at a local hospital.
 
Savage's wife Lynn, who was riding in the passenger seat, escaped with only minor injuries. Both passengers were wearing seatbelts and the police do not believe alcohol was a factor.
 
The World Wrestling Federation favorite from Ohio burst onto the scene in 1985 and quickly drew attention with his flamboyant outfits and "ooh yeah!" catchphrase. His marriage to Elizabeth Hulette, Ms. Elizabeth to fans, was one of the first high-profile wrestler/valet relationships. They divorced in 1992. Savage remarried last year.
 
He won two WWF championships in his career. His match against Ricky Steamboat in 1987's Wrestlemania III is considered one of the best WWF bouts ever. Savage won the title late that year, setting the stage for memorable battles with Hulk Hogan, who would eventually dethrone him as champion.

World Wrestling Entertainment released an official statement on Friday afternoon.
 
"WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the greatest Superstars of his time, Randy Poffo, aka Randy "Macho Man" Savage.
 
One of Macho Man's biggest rivals was Hulk Hogan. Hogan said he and Savage had just started talking again after 10 years.
 
"He had so much life in his eyes & in his spirit, I just pray that he's happy and in a better place and we miss him," Hogan wrote.
 
Savage also appeared in memorable ads for Slim Jim and played a wrestler in the 2002 hit film "Spider-Man."
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2011, 01:42 pm
 (http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_llit5rVcK21qzrlhgo1_500.jpg)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 22 2011, 11:16 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50223.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. SHEAMUS

During Christian’s entrances, they showed Josh Mathews, Michael Cole and Josh Mathews on camera. They had an inset interview with Sheamus during his interview. Sheamus laid a few knees into the head of Christian within the first 30 seconds of the match. Christian came back by jumping over the ropoes and punching Sheamus, who was caught up in the ropes. Hard back elbow by Sheamus. Christian countered Sheamus, and he went over the top and to the outside. Christian ducked under Sheamus, who was on the apron, and pulled his leg out from under him. Sheamus pushed Christian off the top rope, where he was seated, and Christian tumbled to the outside. They went to break with just under 3:00 gone by in the match.

Back at 6:30 of the match. Big bodyslam by Sheamus for a two-count. Hard forearms across the chest of Christian. Sheamus wrenched the neck, but Christian came back with right hands. He smoothly countered a slam into a reverse DDT for two. To the top when Christian, and he landed a cross-body for a two-count. Springboard sunset flip by Christian for two, but as both men reached their feet, Christian was taken down with an Irish Hammer by Sheamus. Christian flipped out of a suplex but ran into an Irish Curse back-breaker. Christian again sat on the top rope, and fought off Sheamus. Tornado DDT at 11:15. He then went for a cover, and got two. Dive over the top rope and a shoulderblock by Sheamus for two. Sheamus went for his finisher, but Christian registered a small package for the three-count.

WINNER: Christian, at 12:14. Good win for Christian heading into Over the Limit.

After the match, Mark Henry ran out. He and Sheamus proceeded to beat-down Christian. Randy Orton came out slowly, and paced a bit on the stage. He watched the punishment, then ran to the ring. He took out Sheamus, then pushed Henry aside, and he fell through the middle rope. Cole nicely mentioned Orton was conflicted about helping: He said he wanted Christian at 100%, but part of him wanted Christian softened up for Sunday.

2 – BRIE BELLA vs. NATALYA

Brie snuck out the back of a slam by Natalya as Booker ranted about biscuits and syrup in regards to Kharma. Natalya rolled into Brie and got a one-count. Brie slammed Natalya’s hand off the mat, then worked in an arm-bar. Nattie powered out and both women struggled to get to their feet at 1:35. Hard clothesline by Natalya. Discuss clothesline by Natalya, which Cole said was “shades of Jim Neidhart.” As I struggled to remember The Anvil doing that move, Booker asked “…what?” and he also said he never saw Neidhart do that move. Brie snuck into the ropes and kicked Natalya in the knee. Face-buster by Brie for the win.

WINNER: Brie, at 3:02. I don’t know if Natalya would be the one I’d feed to Brie heading into her PPV title match, but Nattie did what she could to keep the match together.

3 – EZEKIEL JACKSON & THE BIG SHOW & KANE vs. THE CORRE

Gabriel drew the short straw to work with Big Show first. Kane was next to go after Gabriel. Gabriel finally tagged out to Slater, who walked into a right hand. Slater tried to leap over Kane, but he landed on Kane’s shoulder. He got down and tagged Barrett. Jackson begged for a tag. The two went toe-to-toe, with Barrett kicking Jackson in the stomach. Jackson ended up clotheslining Barrett over the top rope. Corre attempted to regroup on the outside as they went to break.

The babyfaces were still in control out of break. Corre tried to run interference, but it wasn’t successful. Jackson came in and powered Gabriel down. Once Jackson got the better of Barrett, he tagged out. Kane came off the top with a clothesline. Sidewalk slam for a two-count. Kane was taken to the outside and at 8:10, Gabriel dove over the top and onto him. Barrett tagged in, but his cover was unsuccessful. Slater tried to keep Kane down with a side headlock. Kane suplexed out of it, but Slater made the tag before Kane could capitalize. Barrett came in and he and Kane did the double big-boot spot just short of ten minutes in. Slater came in and pounded on Kane in the corner. Both men made hot tags, and Jackson slammed Gabriel a number of times. Things broke down at the 11:00 mark. Show chokeslammed Slater, then Jackson scoop slammed Gabriel. He got Gabriel in a Torture Rack, and Gabriel tapped.

WINNERS: Jackson, Show, and Kane, at 11:30. There were a lot of very limited guys in there, but they did the best they could.

4 – CHAVO GUERRERO vs. DANIEL BRYAN

The five minute clock was in the bottom left-hand corner of the ring, counting down to zero. Bryan avoided right hand in the corner and Chavo took his time to size up Bryan. High dropkick by Bryan on Chavo, who appears to somehow grow more hair on his head the older he gets. Whip into the buckle by Bryan, but he got caught with Chavo’s boots as he charged in. European uppercut by Chavo. Side suplex followed that as Mathews tried to wade through Cole and Booker’s arguing to call the match. Bryan elbowed out of a side headlock. Chavo rolled through a sunset flip for two. Diving clothesline by Bryan, who followed that with kicks to the chest. Cover for two. Bryan attempted the LeBell Lock with 1:22 remaining. Chavo reached the ropes with his foot, forcing a break. Chavo rolled out as the clock reached 1:00. Bryan dove through the ropes and into Chavo. Chavo dodged dropkick off the top and made a cover for two. He went into the Three Amigos vertical suplexes, not a great idea for a guy with under :30 in the match. Chavo went to the top and landed the frog splash with nine seconds left. Bryan kicked out of the first one, a surprise, then Chavo went for another cover with four seconds to go. Bryan kicked out again to end things.

WINNER: Bryan, at 5:00. Nice twist with the ending of Bryan kicking out of the frogsplash. It would’ve been nice to see Chavo go over someone strong heading into the PPV, since he hasn’t won in so long.

Chavo got pissed and threw Bryan into the ring post. Sin Cara then came out, wearing his new t-shirt. He trampolined into the ring, then took Chavo out of the ring with a headscissors.

5 – TED DIBIASE vs. TRENT BARRETA

DiBiase did a slingshot clothesline and went for a cover, only getting two. Barreta went to the top and did a corckscrew…something onto DiBiase. I guess it was supposed to be a kick, according to Booker. Enziguiri by Barreta, but a Tornado DDT was turned into a spinebuster. Dream Street and that was it.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 1:26. Nice to get DiBiase back on track, and the relationship with DiBiase and Rhodes is intriguing.

6 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. MARK HENRY -- non-title match

Back with Henry on the apron, and Orton dropkicking Henry to ringside. Henry regained control in the ring. Two headbutts by Henry put Orton’s back on the mat. Orton began to fight back at the 7:25 mark, and landed two knee-drops. Orton stalked Henry, and got down to pound the mat for the RKO. But Henry exited the ring before Orton could get to him. As Orton readied for the rope-assisted DDT, Sheamus ran in for the DQ.

WINNER: Orton, via DQ, at 8:30.

Christian walked out to the ramp, like Orton did in the first segment, and just waited. The heels choked Orton in the corner as Christian surveyed the scene. Then, he ran to the ring to help Orton out. He got rid of Sheamus and Orton tripped Henry up in the corner. Orton and Christian were standing tall in the ring as the crowd chanted “RKO.” Orton saw Christian and shoved him. The two exchanged words, then Sheamus attacked Christian from behind. Henry and Orton traded blows, ugly blows at that. Christian threw Sheamus out again and Orton RKO’d Henry. Then he leaped in the air, doing a mid-air split, and did some weird fist-pumping celebration that looked totally out of character, but also would make an awesome .gif. Orton had the belt, and he and Christian went face-to-face to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2011, 01:16 pm
WWE Over the Limit PPV Results: 5-22-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_50259.shtml)

1 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. R-TRUTH

Truth started things off in control as the crowd chanted, "You suck, you suck." Truth then flew over the top rope when Rey pulled down the top rope. Lawler noted Truth was still thinking about his parking spot. Rey then ran off the ring apron with a head scissors take over sending Truth flying into the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Truth hung Rey upside down when he crotched him on the top turnbuckle. Truth then went to work on Rey as the crowd serenaded him with boos. Good heat on Truth early on. Of note, lots of Canucks jerseys in the crowd. Short drive across the border from Seattle to Vancouver. Truth continued to work on Rey as Cole noted the "conspiracy" against Truth, which he can relate to. Lawler, who was sounding sick, drew Cole's ire. So many raspy voices on commentary tonight. Truth then took Rey up top, where Rey countered with a bulldog/gut-buster for a close two count.

Rey then mounted some offense with kick strikes into a turnaround splash off the ropes for a two count. Rey followed with a blast kick to the face for a nearfall. Meanwhile, Booker dropped one of his favorite cliches that Rey was all over Truth like a cheap suit. Rey followed with a seated sentaun, but ate the Lie Detector off the ropes. Truth made the cover, but Rey wasn't worn down enough to take a three. Truth tried to follow with Booker's axe kick speciality, but Rey ducked and set up Truth for the 619. Truth ducked out of the ring, though, only to eat a dropkick through the ropes.

On the floor, Truth pulled a Finlay yanking Rey into the ring apron banner before clotheslining him. Mark it down at 7:17 with the first "the end is near" reference of the night, this one from Cole. Lawler continued to act like Rey was doomed, which is usually the reverse psychology that the face will win, but Truth rolled Rey into the ring and dropped him with an STO-like finisher. One, two, three and a clean win for Truth. No music for Truth, who celebrated in the corner before taking a water bottle. Truth smashed the steel water bottle over Rey's head and slowly walked out of the ring celebrating the win. Truth kept talking to himself as he left the ring with the win in hand.

WINNER: Truth at 8:12. Truth has developed into a very good, refreshing heel. Good audience involvement in the match, which was a good sign for Truth getting over as a heel. Truth's no-music intro and exit was a nice touch. (**)

2 -- Intercontinental champion WADE BARRETT vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON -- IC Title match

The announcers talked as if Zeke is looking for his first title in WWE, forgetting he won the ECW Title in the final week of WWE's version of ECW TV...from Christian. Jackson overpowered Barrett early on, easily over-powering Corre's leader. Three minutes in, Cole said he's been sitting back listening to the broadcasters and he's determined they're the most boring team ever. In the ring, Barrett finally scored some offense after tricking Zeke. Barrett rammed Zeke shoulder-first into the ringpost multiple times before delivering a knee to Jackson's head. Cole also noted he has a big surprise for Lawler tonight in Kiss My Foot. The announcers continued to bicker and crack jokes with themselves, including Cole snorting like a pig.

Barrett suddenly set up for Wasteland, but Zeke slipped out and ate a back kick to the mid-section. Barrett wanted a pumphandle slam and he connected center-ring for a two count. Jackson fought back, though, and Barrett rolled to the outside for a breather. On the apron, Zeke sent Barrett flying into the ringpost before flipping him back into the ring.

Zeke then landed a flurry of power offense into a bodyslam. And another. And a third. How about a fourth? The crowd came to life as Jackson delivered #5. A crowd pop for a bodyslam in 2011. How about six? Nope, Jackson put Barrett in the torture rack. Suddenly, Corre members Gabriel and Slater (in new gear) hit the ring to cause a DQ. Jackson then cued up the bodyslam machine before eating the Black Hole Slam from Barrett. Barrett, Gabriel, and Slater put the boots to Jackson before Barrett delivered a boot to the head to silence Jackson tonight.

WINNER: Jackson via DQ at 7:27, Barrett retains the IC Title. Okay match before the "unique" offense from Jackson at the end of the match. If WWE continues the program, they can take the title re-match to the cage to keep Corre out of the ring. (*1/2)

3 -- SIN CARA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

The bell sounded and blue & yellow mood lighting filled the arena. It looked like a gimmick contest during a halftime show. Chavo ate a bottle-opener head scissors early on before Sin Cara dropkicked Chavo to the floor. Sin Cara then flew over the top rope with a twisting corkscrew splash on Chavo. Booker noted he's never seen someone land on their feet after a move like that. Sin Cara followed with a head scissors off the apron to the floor, continuing to wow the crowd.

Back in the ring, Sin Cara ducked a flying tackle and landed a springboard moonsault off the second turnbuckle for a two count. Chavo crawled to the corner, trying to grab a breather, then Sin Cara airballed a corner attack and ate a double knee smash from Chavo. Chavo started working over Sin Cara's left knee, trying to take away his aerial attack. That was only a temporary setback, as Sin Cara knocked Chavo to the floor and ran off the top turnbuckle with a big splash ringside. Sin Cara and Chavo got lost in the mood lighting ringside, then returned to the ring.

In the ring, Sin Cara measured Chavo for a springboard move and connected with another head scissors. Sin Cara then fired up the crowd, fired up himself, and landed multiple kick strikes on Chavo. Sin Cara then hit a springboard elbow smash into an arm drag. Next was an enziguiri kick from the ring apron into a flying cross-body for a two count. Chavo then tried to come back with a Gory Special submission, but Sin Cara countered with a quick armdrag. Sin Cara then executed a tilt-o-whirl facebuster and rolled up Chavo for the pin and the win. They didn't replay the finish during a post-match video package before Sin Cara celebrated on the way out.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 7:23. Chavo was just a tackling dummy out there taking move after move from Sin Cara, who dropped move after move in this match. The offensive display might work with a Level 1 opponent, but he'll have to advance his style as he faces stronger competition. (**)

4 -- WWE tag champions BIG SHOW & KANE vs. NEW NEXUS (C.M. PUNK & MASON RYAN) -- WWE Tag Title match

The bell sounded to begin with Kane and Ryan. There was an early "Ba-tista" chant from a few people in the audience. Hilarious. Ryan then lifted up Kane in the air for a big bodyslam. Only one? Is WWE building to a bodyslam contest between Ryan and Jackson at WrestleMania 28? Show then tagged in after Punk did, prompting Show to deliver a huge slap to the chest. Flashbacks to the Show vs. Punk feud when Punk sported the SES mask. Punk cowered in the corner, trying to cover his face, so Show adjusted his gameplan by slapping Punk across the back, drawing laughs from the crowd. Punk continued to play the under-sized heel selling for Show and Kane's size, finding himself in trouble early on. Punk came back with a kick strike to the head, then Ryan tagged in and knocked Kane to the outside.

Back in the ring, Punk and Ryan began working over Kane. Meanwhile, thunder was heard in the arena in the form of Show stomping on the ring steps to get the crowd involved rallying behind Kane. Ryan then lifted up Kane for a powerslam bouncing into the corner turnbuckle before spinning into a running powerslam center-ring for a two count. Kane came back with a boot to the gut and a suplex that cut off Ryan's momentum.

A tag was made to Punk, who cut off Kane just before tagging in Show. Punk then climbed up top, did a babyface Macho Man salute, and tried the ugliest elbow drop ever, but Kane rolled out of the way. Kane then tagged in Show as Ryan tagged in for Punk. Show ran over Ryan like a train before calling for the chokeslam. Punk found himself in the ring to break it up, then Show came back with a double clothesline. Kane then clotheslined Punk over the top rope. Ryan found himself alone in the ring to take a double chokeslam. Show with the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Show & Kane at 9:06 to retain the Tag Titles. Above-average tag match that was just a step above something you'd see on TV. Ryan taking another decisive "loss" following his double-chokeslam on Raw two weeks ago points to WWE not concerned about protecting him right now. Meanwhile, Punk's back to the drawing board with the played-out Nexus. (**)


Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2011, 01:17 pm
5 -- Divas champion BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match

The match started off with the basics of Kelly on the early offensive before Brie cheated to take control. It feels like a WCW Nitro match where everyone is waiting for the Kharma run-in. Kelly made her obligatory comeback, but the Bellas pulled Twin Magic to score the pin. The Bellas celebrated in the ring, then left up the stage. No sign of Kharma.

WINNER: Brie at 4:14. Kharma? No? (*)

6 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN -- World Hvt. Title match

The bell sounded and the crowd was already hot, creating a big-fight feel. Christian scored a quick roll-up for a two count to put a scare in Orton 30 seconds in. Booker went nuts with a cruise control analogy on Christian that veered off course. Christian scored another early nearfall before accepting a back-elbow smash. Orton tried to follow up, but Christian back-dropped him over the top rope to the floor. Christian followed with a baseball slide kick through the ropes.

On the floor, Christian landed a slap to the face before rolling Orton back into the ring. The crowd remained hot with dueling chants for Christian and Orton. In the ring, Christian delivered a bodyslam before applying a reverse chinlock. Orton escaped, but Christian re-applied before Orton escaped again and delivered a standing dropkick. The match moved up top (there was a visible Broski sign in the background), where Orton delivered a superplex that Booker labeled a giant suplex. Orton was slow to make a cover, allowing Christian to kick out in time.

"Randy, Randy" chant from the crowd as Orton measured Christian for a European uppercut, then another. Orton tried a third, but Christian countered with a backslide for a two count. Booker demanded Mathews call the winner right here, but Mathews said he's split. Christian then delivered a spinebuster on Orton out of nowhere for a two count. 6:30 in and this is already the best match of the PPV. Orton and Christian then came to their feet trading bombs. Big "yays" for Christian.

Christian delivered a reverse DDT for a two count, then clenched his fists looking for the audience to rally behind him. Christian tried a top rope move, but Orton countered with a jackknife pin attempt for a nearfall. Orton then cut off Christian's momentum with an uppercut. He tried to follow with an Angle Slam, but Christian countered with an armdrag. More counters. Christian then climbed up top and delivered a diving headbutt clear across the ring for a close two count that drew gasps from the crowd.

Both men collapsed to the mat selling the effects at 9:00. "Christian, Christian" chant as Christian was the first man up. Orton then caught Christian with a fallaway backbreaker for a close two count of his own. Orton slowly scooped up Christian for more offense, then both men countered each other's finishers. Orton suddenly busted out a reverse Boston Crab center-ring. Orton used his legs to pull Christian back to center-ring as Christian cried out in pain. The crowd was hot for the teased finish before Christian made the ropes for a break. Christian literally ate the bottom rope as he cried out in pain.

"Let's go Christian" chant as Orton stood over Christian, pacing the ring. Orton focused on Christian's back, then Christian teased a turnaround splash from the second rope that made Orton flinch with the RKO. Christian then delivered the turnaround move into a sunset flip for a close two count. That was such a great flinch sequence. Suddenly, Orton countered a move from the apron into the classic spike DDT. Orton with the cover, but Christian kicked out in time. Orton sold frustration not being able to put away Christian.

At 13:20, Orton started looking around the arena before dropping down to center-ring to start pounding the mat looking to set up the RKO. Orton tried it, but Christian threw him off. Christian then called for the crowd and suddenly entered another world. Christian called for the spear and backed into the corner looking to deliver for Edge. Orton was slow to get up as the crowd was hot. Orton then countered the spear into a classic Orton snap powerslam. Orton with the cover, but Christian kicked out.

The two men paused to rebuild the heat before Orton got that crazy look in his eyes. Orton stood over Christian, then backed away to the opposite corner. Orton measured Christian for the Punt, but he was conflicted. Orton sold not wanting to end Christian's career, then he tried the Punt anyways, only to have Christian counter with a spear. Christian made a rapid cover, but Orton kicked out just in time. Wow. Christian flipped out, unable to finish off Orton.

Christian then measured Orton for the Killswitch, but Orton shoved Christian away. He tried the RKO, but Christian blocked. More counters. Suddenly, Orton back-flipped over Christian and delivered the decisive blow with an RKO center-ring. Orton made the cover and it was good for the win. Booker doubled the match time, saying it was about 30 minutes of great match action.

Post-match: Orton celebrated with the World Title belt before posing in the corner. Orton started to leave the ring, but walked back over to Christian to help him up. Christian shoved him away, though. Christian then returned to the ring and got right in his face. Christian wiped his head and extended his hand. They shook hands before Christian slipped out of the ring. Orton stared him down as Christian slowly walked away holding his head in frustration. Christian continued to stand ringside as Orton posed in the ring. Back to Christian, who sold despair as Orton contemplated the match in the ring. The camera followed Christian all the way to the stage where he disappeared to the back. They cut back to Orton continuing to stare into the arena.

WINNER: Orton at 16:50. Wow, what a match. There's a new WWE Match of the Year contender with the strength of the story. Great counters, including that terrific RKO flinch spot playing off their first match, and a great story told incorporating Edge's involvement, two men's desire to be World champion, and the Smackdown story focused on tension and respect. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 23 2011, 01:17 pm
7 -- JERRY LAWLER vs. MICHAEL COLE -- Kiss My Foot match -- Lawler's Hall of Fame ring on the line

Lawler began ripping up Cole's cheap suit, then Cole slipped to the outside and begged off. He suckered in Lawler, who ate the ring steps. Cole then sent Lawler flying into the guardrail. Cole began taking off his shoes before removing his right sock to reveal the nasty right foot enhanced for visual grossness. The ref sold he was going to vomit, then Lawler simply threw Cole into the Cole Mine, breaking it into pieces. Lawler proceeded to roll Cole into the ring before delivering a fist drop. Lawler made the cover and it was over in three minutes.

WINNER: Lawler at 3:01. That was kept much shorter than at WrestleMania. The post-match that followed was the payoff people were looking for...

Post-match: Lawler rubbed his hands together before starting to untie his boot. Lawler paused, saying he had something else in mind. Lawler started waving to the back and out came Eve. Mathews noted Cole has no respect for the Divas. Eve delivered a moonsault, then Lawler surveyed Cole once again. Lawler wasn't done. Cue up Boomer Sooner to bring out Jim Ross dressed in a suit. Ross surveyed the situation, then pulled out a bottle of JR's BBQ sauce. Ross made sure the product was displayed for the audience, then he poured a full bottle all over Cole's face. Cole, with his pants ripped and face covered in BBQ sauce, scurried out of the ring. Lawler noted Cole still hadn't kissed his foot.

"Not like this!" Cole shouted. Ross, Eve, and Lawler stood in the ring as Cole stood on the stage. Cole took a mic and said it may look like he lost tonight, but he didn't lose. He claimed he's not a loser. He growled that Lawler and Ross are losers. All the idiots in the crowd are losers. Cole said no matter what any of them do to him, he never did and never will kiss Lawler's foot. Cole dropped the mic and shouted no way.

Suddenly, Bret Hart's theme music hit to a huge reaction. Hart slowly walked out on-stage behind Cole, who started backing down the entrance ramp. Cole tried shaking hands with Hart, who threw Cole into the ring. Hart measured Cole in the ring and stepped into the Sharpshooter. Cole begged and begged before Lawler made Cole eat his right foot as BBQ sauce dripped down from Cole's forehead. Hart and Lawler hugged as Cole dragged himself across the ring. Mathews noted it was vindication for Lawler "and others" tonight. Cole continued to gasp for air before they went to a slow-motion replay of Cole eating Lawler's foot. The saliva just looked nasty in HD.

8 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ (w/Alex Riley) -- WWE Title match -- I Quit match
 
The bell sounded and Miz quickly took the mic. Miz said one of them has to say, "I Quit" tonight. Wait, Miz just said, "I quit." The match should be over now. Miz noted Riley can also get involved since there are no rules. Miz told Cena to save himself the embarrassment and just quit right now. Cena tried to sell concern faced with this proposition of dealing with Riley. The ref asked Cena, who responded, "Hell no." Cue up the virtual handicap match.
 
The crowd started the dueling chants with kids/families pro-Cena and the deep-throated voices anti-Cena. Cena quickly went for the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Miz and delivered. Miz countered the Attitude Adjustment with the Reality Check, though. Miz then tried the Skullcrushing Finale, but Cena countered with the AA. Riley then entered the ring and blasted Cena with the briefcase. Riley landed more blows. The sound effects sounded like a plastic toy. Miz and Riley then combined on a double-team powerbomb from the second turnbuckle. Cena wasn't quitting that easily.
 
The match moved to the floor, where Miz and Riley rammed Cena back-first into the guardrail. Cena twice told the ref he wasn't quitting. Next, Cena ate the exposed guardrail in front of the timekeeper. Wanna quit? "Nope," Cena said nonchalantly. Next, Miz and Riley used TV monitors to bash Cena. No quit in Cena. Cena suddenly fought back, but Miz reversed a whip into the ring steps. Ross with a classic call on Miz's physical dissection. Miz followed with a DDT onto the ring steps. Miz yanked the mic from the ref and screamed at Cena to say it. Nothing from Cena. Miz then told Cena Riley has the steel steps and he's going to slam them into Cena's...ribs. He suggested Cena quit. "Go to hell," Cena told him. Riley then dropped the steps down onto Cena. No quit in him, though.
 
At 9:00, Miz and Riley hung Cena in the ropes before Miz retrieved a Kendo stick. Miz shushed the crowd before noting to Cena he has a weapon. He gave him an opportunity to not have so much pain put upon him. Cena breathed heavily before telling Miz, "You hit like a girl." Miz proceeded to crack the stick over Cena's body. Ross said Miz was going Ichiro on Cena. Nice. Cena cried out in pain, but wouldn't quit. Miz sold he was stunned by this. Miz then went to town on Cena, who tried to cover his body. Cena cried out in pain, but wouldn't quit.
 
Next, Miz and Riley dragged Cena up the entrance ramp to inflict more punishment. Miz landed sort of a mini-Orton punt that sent Cena about two feet off the edge of the ramp to the floor below. Cena caught his breath, looked around, heard the cries from the fans, and said he wouldn't quit. Booker said he was delirious. He said it's up to Miz to find Cena's breaking point. Miz then retrieved a strap and asked Cena if he wants to quit. Cena told him he might have a strap, but no nuts. Miz landed some weak-sounding strap shots across Cena's back as he was draped over a camera crane. Cena grimaced, but wouldn't quit.
 
Cena suddenly made a comeback, but Miz cut him off with a steel chair across the back. The match its way back into the ring where Cena teased another comeback, but Riley cut him off this time and the ref was bumped in the process. Miz then placed a chair in-between the second and top rope. He measured Cena with the Skullcrushing Finale into the chair, but kind of kicked the chair in the execution of the SCF, so it wasn't as smooth. Miz asked Cena if he wanted to quit, but no dice.
 
Miz said maybe Cena needs to hear it from someone else. He asked some kid on the front row. He said he doesn't want to see Cena take any more punishment, but he would never tell him to quit. "Not any day," the kid nervously said. Miz popped Cena in the head with the mic, then cut a promo on the kid again. Miz vowed to not stop until Cena says he quits. The kid just shrugged his shoulders. Another kid told Miz to quit first. Riley reprimanded the other kid for interrupting the bit. Miz then popped Cena in the head with the mic again.
 
Miz proceeded to trap Cena inside the exposed guardrail ringside. Miz vowed to bash this here steel chair over Cena's body non-stop until he quits. The crowd was quiet as Miz talked up the beating he had delivered so far. Miz told Cena to say the magic words. Cena said those kids are smarter than he is. No response from the crowd. Miz then bashed the guardrail to make it look like he hit Cena. Riley told Cena to say it. Suddenly, the recorded voice of John Cena played, saying he quit. The ref woke up and declared Miz the winner. Mathews acted dumb about the obvious recording.
 
WINNER: Miz at 23:11 to capture the WWE Title before the decision was reversed...
 
The ref went to retrieve the WWE Title belt, but found a recording on the floor. Ref Chioda waved off the decision, then entered the ring and played the recording as Miz complained about Chioda screwing him again. Chioda called for the bell and the match re-started. Cena ducked a belt shot that creamed Miz. Cena then gave Riley the AA through the announce table.
 
Cena collected himself, spotted Miz on the floor, then took off his belt. Cena proceeded to whip Miz with his belt. Miz ran all the way up the ramp and to the back. Cena quickly dragged him back to the stage, though, and put Miz in the STF on the stage. After a few moments, Miz weakly whispered, "I quit," and the ref declared Cena the winner. Cena retains.
 
After the match, Cena leaned against one of the cars on the stage before receiving the WWE Title belt. Cena stumbled over, selling the effects of the match. After a replay of the high points, Ross recapped the match. Cena celebrated on the stage and Ross noted Cena took it to new heights tonight. They went back to a replay of Riley playing Cena's voice recording for the false finish before showing Cena making his big comeback to ultimately win. Ross then signed off 51 minutes past the top of the hour as Cena celebrated with the title to conclude the PPV.
 
WINNER: Cena at 24:52 of total time to retain the WWE Title. Hit or miss type of TV match applied to long-form PPV match length. The goal was to make Miz seem like a more formidable and credible heel delivering punishment to Cena, and that was hit & miss as well. At the end of the day, the story will probably turn to more tension between Miz and Riley, then Cena likely moving on to a feud with Del Rio. They might try to squeeze out one more title match between Cena and Miz, but it's definitely time to move on. Hard match to rate, as it was more of an angle than a match. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 25 2011, 02:01 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-23-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50294.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- WWE tag champions KANE & BIG SHOW vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA (w/C.M. Punk and Mason Ryan) -- WWE Tag Title match

Punk and Mathews reminisced about when Punk was on-commentary on Raw earlier this year. Mathews tried to quiz Punk on losing the Tag Title match last night, but Punk heeled on him to stop asking questions. Lawler re-asked the question and Punk claimed a 120 degree fever. Nexus couldn't get much momentum going on Show and Kane early on. Show then got to Mike with big open-handed slaps to the chest. Show dumped Mike to the outside and they cut to break with Nexus trying to regroup ringside.

Back from break, Nexus was working over Kane in their corner. Mathews noted Ryan was standing over Punk's shoulder, prompting Punk to tell Mathews he's terrible. Punk also noted he's in the main event tonight, which is exactly where he should be. The action continued to progress at a snail's pace with the Nexus scrubs working over Kane. Kane eventually smashed Otunga with a big boot and crawled over to Show for a tag as Mike also tagged in. Punk said he's not worried and has faith. Show devoured Mike, then Mason Ryan tried to get involved. The ref was distracted during this. Punk then hit a kick on Show from the ring apron. Mike and Otunga followed with a double DDT on Show and made the cover for the win. New tag champs. Punk quickly gathered up the troops to head for higher ground as Show woke up and threw a fit in the ring.

WINNERS: Nexus at 8:59 to capture the Tag Titles. Blah match with the belts now on a blah, inexperienced team. At least it puts Punk in the spotlight leading a team with gold, but WWE has to rebuild the tag division for this to mean something. (*)

+ Big Show gets run over by a car. Looks like he gets a vacation.

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER

The bell sounded and Swagger went to work on Bourne, trying to ground him. Reinforcing this as filler, Mathews plugged the Kmart Live Event Tour and Lawler talked about a shopping trip to Kmart. Swagger continued to work over Bourne before missing with a Vader Bomb. Bourne then fired back with kick strikes, then tried a roll-up for a close two count. Bourne tried to follow with a big huracanrana, but Swagger countered into a big gutwrench powerbomb that bounced Bourne's neck off the mat. Swagger with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Swagger did his victory lap dancing around Bourne for a while. It looked like another lost week for Bourne, who suddenly popped to his feet and smashed Swagger with a surprise kick to the face. Bourne then scrammed out of the ring, drawing Swagger's ire. Swagger told Bourne to come back and get some more.

WINNER: Swagger at 2:08. For Swagger, this came across like the Samoa Joe booking on Impact: one step forward with the squash win, then one step backward in the post-match. At least Bourne was able to save face, but the whole segment was a wash, especially being presented as filler. (*)

+ Michael Cole comes out and apologizes to the world and slinks back to the announcers table.

+ Miz fires Alex Riley, who then proceeds to beat the crap out of his now former boss. From WWE Champ to jobbing to Alex...poor Miz.

3 -- KELLY KELLY & EVE & GAIL KIM & BETH PHOENIX vs. Divas champion BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA & MELINA & MARYSE -- eight-Divas tag match

Is Kharma going to wipe out the entire Divas division in one match? What brand is Phoenix even on? Kelly started things off and, 25 seconds into the match, Kharma's music played. Beth stepped to the front of the line for a shot at Kharma, who slowly entered the ring. Kharma eventually walked to the middle of the ring and the eight Divas circled around the ring. Kharma surveyed the scene, then dropped to her knees and started sobbing. The other Divas weren't sure how to react. WWE stayed with Kharma crying for a while, then eventually faded to commercial.

WINNERS: No Decision at 4:13, 0:25 of match action. Um... Is this is part of the anti-bullying deal? Or, Kharma just has enochlophobia?

4 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. DREW MCINTYRE -- non-title match

Mathews randomly inserted a line about Kofi being like WWE's version of Derrick Rose. Lawler and Cole were stunned by this comment. Cole said Rose was the MVP of the NBA, as if Kingston isn't even close. Lawler complained about Rose costing Memphis their college basketball accolades. Suddenly, Kofi's knee crashed down on McIntyre's head and Mac followed up by working over the knee. Kofi, hobbling around, made a comeback and told the crowd to rally behind him.

Kofi limped into the Boom Drop, then called for the end. Kingston couldn't spin on his bad knee to deliver Trouble in Paradise, so Mac kicked him in the head for a two count only. Mac then almost dropped Kofi on his head before executing a running powerbomb for a cover and a nearfall. The crowd was quiet, seemingly taken out of the action by an apparent injury and Mac's awkward offense. Kofi suddenly ducked a clothesline and executed his SOS drop for the pin and the win. Kofi went back to selling the knee. They suddenly cut to a shot of Vickie Guerrero and Dolph watching the match on a backstage monitor. Kofi celebrated with the title belt to conclude the match.

WINNER: Kingston at 4:24. This is where WWE needs enhancement matches to build credibility for their potential rising stars. No one takes McIntyre (or Ziggler) seriously, then Mac losing to a one-legged man reinforced why no one should take him seriously. The match itself was just off. (3/4*)

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA & REY MYSTERIO vs. R-TRUTH & C.M. PUNK -- Bret Hart special referee

Cena and Truth started things off and Cena quickly dumped Truth to the floor. Truth and Punk regrouped ringside as Hart applied a ten count. They cut to break 45 seconds in with Hart at four.

Back from break, PunkSavage was landing elbow smashes on Cena in the corner. Cena then came back with a bulldog and fisherman suplex. Punk then hid behind Hart to slow down Cena, who was caught in a double heel trap. Truth tagged in to wear down Cena before hip-thrusting to the crowd. The crowd started a dueling chant for Cena leading to the top of the hour.

Cole reset the show and claimed it's been a huge night on Raw. The heels continued to make covers and Hart started slowing down his count. Punk was greet heeling on Hart, who made another slow count after Punk landed an elbow drop. Cena teased a tag to Rey, but Punk pulled Cena back to the heel corner to continue isolating him. Cena called a spot in the corner, then teased another comeback, but Punk cut him off. Punk smiled at Hart and teased the Sharpshooter, but Cena blocked, then hit a DDT moments later.

Cena made the hot tag to Rey, who went after Punk with trademark offense. Cole noted their history, then Rey blasted Punk in the head with a kick strike. The action completely broke down and Truth hit Paydirt on Cena. Suddenly, Rey smashed Truth to the ropes for the 619, but Punk intercepted Rey, only to have Rey counter with the 619. Hart then punched Punk and stepped into the Sharpshooter. Cole re-entered Heel Cole mode at this point. Punk, locked in the Sharpshooter, took the springboard leg drop from Rey and it was good for the win.

Post-match: Cole noted Bret Hart has just ruined the last 24 hours of his life. Cena, Hart, and Rey did a curtain call before they went to a replay of Rey and Hart doubling up on Punk to get the win. They went to a slow-mo replay of Cena leaping in the air to celebrate. Mathews said it was a feel-good moment for everyone. Mathews signed off, with no hook for next week's Raw. Cena and Rey continued posing and they stayed with it for a bit before ending the show six minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNERS: Cena & Rey at 9:44. Exactly what Mathews said it was supposed to be: feel-good moment for the audience to conclude the show. They curiously didn't provide a hook for next week or re-focus on the heels after the match. And, with Punk reportedly being next in-line to feud with Cena, WWE protected Truth over Punk, who took the fall in the match. Cena vs. Truth could be a really, really strong & refreshing title feud if WWE goes that away after Truth owned Cena on the mic in the opening segment. (**)

FINAL THOUGHTS: Up and down show. Some of the mic work was really strong (Truth, Miz, and Hart) and the Miz-Riley blow-up could lead to big things for both if handled correctly. However, the match action was weak or inconsequential and the mid-card continues to be lost in the shuffle. There's no sense of upward mobility for anyone below Truth right now. Then, there's the booking of Kharma, which was completely bizarre in a head-scratching way.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 26 2011, 12:44 pm
Kharma is pregnant (http://"http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/article/why-kharma-was-written-off-tv-next-nxt-elimination-date-130419")

Nothing like setting her up to run all over the Divas then find out she has to be pulled for at least 9 months.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 27 2011, 01:10 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50326.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BYRON SAXTON & YOSHI TATSU vs. LUCKY CANNON & TYSON KIDD

Yoshi and Cannon picked up their feud starting this match off. Yoshi scored a few early nearfalls, then Kidd tagged in for Lucky to work on Yoshi. Kidd eventually knocked Yoshi to the floor and Cannon landed a cheap shot. Saxton was dismayed with his Pro's performance as they cut to break.

[Break]

Back live, Section 106 got some airtime over Saxton's shoulder as he awaited a tag. It wasn't coming, as the heels continued to work over Yoshi, who tried to fight out of the heel corner. This went on for a good number of minutes before Yoshi shoved Cannon to the mat from the top turnbuckle and landed a top-rope spinning heel kick. Saxton acted as if he were begging for a tag, but pulled his hand away at the last second and stared down Yoshi.

Kidd tagged in during the subsequent stare-down and Kidd and Yoshi went to work on each other. Yoshi, fired up, cleaned house and nailed a spin kick for the apparent win, but Kidd kicked out in time. Saxton suddenly blind-tagged himself into the match and Yoshi shoved him down. That put Saxton right in the Sharpshooter from Kidd. Yoshi stood on the floor and watched as Saxton begged for help, but Yoshi remained on the floor and Saxton was forced to tap out.

Post-match: Yoshi continued to stare at Saxton with hands-on-hips as Saxton sold frustration with the turn of events. Regal said Saxton needs to learn a lesson here. After a replay of the finish, Saxton screamed at Yoshi, telling him he ruined his career. Saxton slapped Yoshi, who responded with a KO roundhouse kick to the head. "Yoshi, Yoshi" chant as Saxton sold being knocked out in the ring. Regal made it sound like Saxton is in trouble next week for the elimination.

WINNERS: Kidd & Cannon at 8:53. Quite possibly the most intriguing match this season. Yoshi is really adding another layer of depth to his character and Saxton showed good fire on the mic and in his limited role. Well done.

2 -- JTG vs. CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kozlov)

Before the match, they replayed last week's dance-off routine by Kozlov and O'Brian. Regal said it reminded him of hanging out with Arn Anderson at a night club in Chicago. JTG was not amused having to watch a replay of last week's shenanigans. O'Brian quickly went to work on JTG as Regal continued to ask why he's even here. Grisham said he has no idea why; he just does an average job calling the matches. JTG then knocked O'Brian to the floor and followed with a baseball slide kick through the ropes.

JTG continued to wear down O'Brian while playing to the crowd and Kozlov. And a little for Regal. That one cost JTG, who suddenly walked into a small package from O'Brian for the win. Grisham noted JTG dominated the entire time, but took his eye off the ball. After the match, JTG cleaned O'Brian's clock, but Kozlov headbutted him to the outside. JTG continued to sell shock ringside before they went to a replay of the events.

WINNER: O'Brian at 3:53. O'Brian continues to just take up space in the ring, while JTG showed a little fire in the post-match to warrant giving him a spot in the ring on this show.

3 -- TITUS O'NEIL vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero) -- No DQ match

Grisham said it's the first-ever No DQ match on NXT. Young tried to run away once the bell hit, but Titus dragged him back into the ring. "You wanna be a bully?!" Titus shouted in Young's face while working on him in the corner. Titus then slapped on an abdominal stretch center-ring and tried to choke the life out of him. Young fought out, but Titus knocked him over the top rope to the floor. On the outside, Young got up-close-and-personal with Regal taking multiple blows into the announce table. Titus chucked Young back into the ring, but Chavo kicked Titus from behind to attack the ribs. They suddenly cut to break.

Back live, Young rammed Titus into the ring apron to focus on the ribs. Young threw Titus back into the ring and Chavo shouted some instructions his way. They cut back to the locker room where Hornswoggle didn't like what he was seeing. Young got too cocky and ate the ring ropes when Titus ducked an attack. Titus then mounted a comeback until Chavo hit the ring to beat down Titus. The crowd was into this, wanting Hornswoggle to make the save. Chavo then went under the ring and retrieved a chain. They cut back to the locker room where Hornswoggle saw the chain, had enough, put on his fighting gear, and left the locker room.

Back live in the ring, Chavo teased some chain shots on Titus until Hornswoggle charged the ring and distracted the heels to set up Titus's comeback. Titus used Hornswoggle as a battering room, then dropped Young with his Clash of Titus big sky-high bomb. Titus wasn't done and put Young in the corner to take a Tadpole Splash from Hornwoggle. Titus with the pin and the win. Regal said even an old villain like him has a smile seeing Chavo and Young get their comeuppance. Grisham said even a cold heart like his can be warmed. They replayed the finish of the match, including a slow-motion replay of the Tadpole Splash. Titus and Swoggle celebrated in the ring as Young retreated up the ramp selling disdain for their existence. Grisham noted next week's elimination as the show wrapped up.

WINNER: Titus at 8:19. The anti-bullying message lives on...according to how WWE defines it. Fine payoff to last week's storyline and it sets up Young to potentially be eliminated next week, although I still believe O'Brian should be the next to go.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 27 2011, 01:11 am
TMZ reports - handgun discovered at crash scene, Savage funeral notes including "last wish"  (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_50365.shtml)

Quote
-- TMZ reports a "powerful handgun" was found in Randy Savage's Jeep at the time of his car crash last Friday, but Savage had a permit to carry the gun.

According to Savage's brother, Lanny Poffo, the gun was properly registered and Savage used it for target shooting, which was a new hobby he picked up.

Lanny says he wasn't surprised to find out the gun was in Savage's vehicle at the time of the car crash because "Randy and his wife were so passionate about the hobby."

***

-- A private ceremony for Randy Savage was held Tuesday at his Florida home. Savage's ashes were spread at the base of a tree next to his deceased dog, Hercules, according to a report by TMZ on Wednesday.

An item TMZ noted is Savage's "last wish" was that the iconic "Pomp & Circumstance" music he used for his ring entrance not be used at his funeral.

According to Lanny Poffo, Savage felt "extremely guilty" in recent years for using the song because his wrestling idol growing up, Gorgeous George, used it. Lanny noted Savage felt he stole George's thunder.

Lanny told TMZ that Savage's close friends and family members are scheduled to meet up on Thursday to "continue to mourn and honor Savage's memory."

Although not noted in TMZ's report, Savage was working on a significant Gorgeous George project at the time of his death. WWE is also working on a Gorgeous George movie and potential DVD release.

Links: TMZ.com for the funeral notes and TMZ.com for the handgun report.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 27 2011, 02:51 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50378.shtml) Condensed her to in-ring results only. YouTube link to this week's episode of WWE Superstars can be found at Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #11,381 (click video picture to play) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?33173-offical-wwe-thread&p=3201327&viewfull=1#post3201327)

1 -- SANTINO vs. ZACK RYDER

Nunzio is the referee for this bout. Ryder began the match by posing for Santino, who then did a comical posedown. Ryder with an early take-down before he fist-pumped in Santino's face. Santino mock applauded, then told him to bring it. Santino with an arm drag leading to the trumpet celebration. Ryder then went old-school with a Test of Strength challenge. Santino took the bait and ate a boot to the gut. Ryder followed with a shoulder tackle before he did the trumpet celebration. Santino came back with a Cobra tease, which sent Ryder scurrying to the ring apron.

Back to center-ring, they traded playful slaps before Ryder smashed Santino to the mat. Santino got up and sold immense anger with this development. Mathews noted Santino is one of the "most resourceful" Superstars he's ever seen. Santino then warmed up the Cobra and struck Ryder on the leg. Ryder sold as if he received temporary paralysis in his leg. This would fit right in with Chikara. Santino then went all the way up top, thought it over, comically stepped down to the bottom rope, fell down, and ate an elbow smash from Ryder.

Ryder resumed control of the match trying to wear down Santino with a reverse chinlock. Ryder tried to follow with a corner Broski Boot, but Santino moved and Ryder ate the bottom turnbuckle. Santino got that look in his eyes and warmed up the Cobra for a decisive strike. Santino with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Santino at 5:31. That was something else. It's definitely worth checking out if you're in the mood for comedy wrestling.

2 -- JTG vs. CURT HAWKINS

Basic back-and-forth early on. Stanford randomly said JTG is looking for a shot at the U.S. Title held by Kofi Kingston. That would require actually making it to Raw TV once in a while. Hawkins took control before they cut to break.

Back from break, Hawkins and JTG traded pin attempts before Hawkins resumed control while carrying himself in his usual cocky manner. JTG teased a comeback following a high back-body drop, then fired himself up and went for the Mug Shot, but Hawkins yanked him down to the mat for a two count. "Just quit!" Hawkins shouted down at JTG. Hawkins then yanked JTG across the top rope when JTG made a last-ditch effort. With JTG in position, Hawkins went up top to deliver a heat-seeking elbow drop for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hawkins at 8:48. Basic TV singles match.

3 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Armando Estrada) vs. TRENT BARRETA

The bell sounded and the two men went back-and-forth at a rapid pace. Korpela said he's not sure why Kidd feels the need to audition managers each week. Korpela then brought up Armando's previous run being part of ECW when Striker was on the show. Barreta scored some offense that put Kidd in trouble, then Armando hopped on the ring apron. Barreta took a quick look at Armando, allowing Kidd to knock him to the floor. Armando put the boots to Barreta behind the ref's back as they cut to break.

Back on the show, Kidd continued to work on Barreta after the pre-break help. Striker said he thinks Kidd is misguided looking for managers when he needs a high-profile agent to help him acquire bigger matches and handle his affairs. Barreta teased a comeback with chops and an enziguiri before climbing up top for a springboard missile dropkick. Barreta made a cover, but only scored a two count. Barreta sold a right knee injury, which Kidd tried to take advantage of, but Barreta came back with a knee smash for a two count.

Kidd rolled to the outside for a breather and Barreta tried a baseball slide kick, but Kidd cut him off. He went up top and landed the Move of the Week - a top-rope elbow smash - but Barreta kicked out. Kidd followed with a Sharpshooter attempt targeting the lower back and injured knee, but Barreta made it to the ropes for a break. Barreta teased another comeback, but Kidd cut him off and landed a Fisherman Buster for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Kidd celebrated in the ring before Armando took the mic. He said what they have just witnessed is what happens when athletic excellence meets superb intellect. Armando flashed his trademark eyes for the hard camera before the heels shared a hearty laugh. After a replay of the high points, Armando noted he's found himself a winner. Striker told the audience to tune in next week to find out.

WINNER: Kidd at 9:30. Fine main event with some good nearfalls and counters during the second-half of the match. Armando was solid in the role as a toned-down businessman compared to being way over-the-top during his previous run. Kidd's quest for a manager is an interesting little story to follow each week on Superstars.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 27 2011, 03:08 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50380.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- A.J. STYLES & DANIELS vs. TOMMY DREAMER & BULLY RAY -- No DQ Street Fight

The fight broke out ringside before Styles and Daniels could even make it to the ring. The fight went into the stands, where Styles flew off the grandstands onto Dreamer. In the ring, Daniels started throwing various weapons into the ring. Daniels landed a trashcan lid shot to the head. And again. And a third. And a fourth. And fifth. Ray then took a face-first Flair dive into the lid before begging off. Styles and Dreamer eventually made it into the ring to pick up the battle. Dreamer eventually cut off Styles and helped Ray target the neck. Styles then made a comeback with a kendo stick shot to the head. Styles and Daniels then dropped Dreamer with a spike piledriver for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Styles & Daniels at 5:02. Really? Weapons and head shots? TNA does these matches so often that it feels like they're trying to squeeze whatever juice is left out of a Xerox of the '90s. Let it go. This would have meant a lot more if TNA didn't do this type of match so often. The end-result came across like Dreamer getting his comeuppance, which you would think would occur on the PPV, but we'll see where this goes.

2 -- JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) vs. MATT MORGAN

Morgan quickly used his size to bring an attack to Jeff as Karen wiped her forehead selling concern for her man. Morgan avoided a corner attack and smashed Jeff head-first into the turnbuckle. Morgan missed with a corner boot, though, and Jeff began working on the left leg. Jeff then tried a cross-body, but Morgan caught him in mid-air for an overhead slam. Karen hobbled to ringside during this as Morgan scored another nearfall. With ref Hebner occupied, Karen slipped the crutch to Jeff, who blasted Morgan with it. Jarrett hit The Stroke, but Morgan surprised everyone by kicking out of Jeff's finisher.

After the close nearfall, Morgan smashed Jeff with a big Carbon Footprint and had the pin, but Karen swiped at Earl with the crutch. Hebner occupied himself with Karen and Scott Steiner slipped into the ring to drop Morgan with a uranage. Scott draped Jeff on top of Morgan to score the pin when ref Hebner returned to the ring. Post-match: Jeff and Karen shared a smooch while Morgan collected himself in the ring.

WINNER: Jarrett at 3:05. Formula Jarrett/WCW TV match with some built-in protections for Morgan taking a loss in three minutes. It looks like they're setting up Morgan vs. Steiner again.

3 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES vs. WINTER (w/Angelina Love) -- non-title match

Winter quickly took control of the action, wearing down Mickie as Angelina stared into the ring in a trance-like state. Mickie made a comeback and kipped up to get a reaction from the crowd. She absorbed a last-ditch attack from Winter before hitting her signature DDT for the win. Angelina was unmoved. Post-match: Angelina checked on Winter, saw she was bleeding, and jumped Mickie ringside. After brutally attacking Mickie, Angelina re-checked on her master.

WINNER: Mickie at 2:22. Another short match, which was a means to set up Angelina challenging for the KO Title at Slammiversary.

4 -- X Division champion ABYSS vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- X Division Title match

Abyss continued to sell ringside, so Kendrick came flying to the outside with a dropkick that grazed Abyss. The ref called for the bell to begin the match, which moved into the ring with Abyss limping around. Abyss quickly cut off Kendrick with a big back-elbow smash to begin wearing him down. Kendrick escaped a press-slam and mounted some offense, including a top-rope missile dropkick for a two count. Kendrick went up top again, but ref Jackson James "incidentally got in the way," allowing Abyss to crotch Kendrick. Abyss followed with the Black Hole Slam for the win. Abyss then repeated some Art of War lines into the camera, noting his defense tonight was a "human shield," which would be the ref.

WINNER: Abyss at 4:14 to retain the X Division Title. What you would expect - reinforcing that the "X Division," as it's presented in the form of WCW's Cruiserweight division, doesn't matter. Concerning Abyss, it seems like a gradual re-building of Abyss's character as a monster now with brains.

5 -- TV champion GUNNER vs. ERIC YOUNG -- TV Title match

The bell sounded and Gunner re-visited the plan discussed earlier. Meanwhile, Tenay referenced Hogan and Nash's Finger Poke of Doom again to keep the '90s Night theme alive. Gunner did the finger poke, Young dropped to the mat, and Young suddenly small-packaged Gunner for the pin. Young strutted in Gunner's face as Gunner did his big, bug-eyed look. Gunner chased Young around the ring before Young ran to the back as the segment ended.

WINNER: Young at 0:30 to capture the TV Title. TNA playing hot potato with meaningless belts continues.

6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. ROB VAN DAM

Jeff said he picked RVD to face Angle since it's the first time they've faced each other in TNA. He said something about Angle not having a mental advantage over his opponent. The match quickly accelerated with RVD landing signature offense. RVD came up with a busted lip as Angle recovered on the floor. Back in the ring, Angle walked into more offense from RVD. Angle made a comeback after RVD cockily played to the crowd. TNA production cut to a split-screen of the action in the ring and Jarrett cutting a promo on Tenay at the announce table. They stayed with this split-screen for a while. RVD then scored some offense before Angle landed an overhead release suplex for a nearfall.

At the top of the hour, both men found themselves on the mat selling. Angle then popped up to his feet and landed a suplex for a nearfall. Angle dropped the straps and went for the Anklelock, but RVD kicked Angle in the head to escape. RVD followed with a kick to the head before hopping up top. RVD wanted the Five-Star, but Angle moved. Angle wanted the Olympic Slam and connected. Angle with the cover for the win.

Post-match: Karen gasped in frustration as the Jarretts stood up at the announce position. Jeff mockingly applauded Kurt. Meanwhile, Karen said Jeff won't be alone at Slammiversary. They signed off two minutes past the top of the hour with Jeff and Kurt staring back and forth at each other.

WINNER: Angle at 7:38. It was refreshing to see a clean finish in a featured TV match, but this wasn't given enough time to be a stand-out match, nor live up to expectations after being hyped throughout the show. The match never really moved out of first-gear and the continual focus on the announce position served as a distraction. Rounding this out, the focus on Jarrett-Angle for Slammiversary was solid. For a PPV that really doesn't have a hook - since Sting-Anderson is so off-the-wall nuts and presented as an afterthought - the Angle-Jarrett blow-off is as close as it comes to selling the PPV. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 30 2011, 08:48 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report).  (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50406.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SIN CARA vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Cara countered a hip-toss and took Chavo down with a few arm-drags. Chavo was at ringside and Cara feigned diving at him. Missed corner splash by Cara, and Chavo nailed him with a double-knee to the chest. European uppercut by Chavo on Cara, followed by a side slam for a one-count at 1:52. Chavo locked in a key-lock on the left arm of Cara. Cara took Chavo to the outside again and this time landed a springboard moonsault. Thus far, they haven’t addressed anything dealing with Cole’s new place at the announce table, though he still acted a little testy at times. Cara used his kicks as his primary offensive weapon. Springboard cross-body by Cara, but a jackknife cover by Chavo for two. “Chavo sucks” chant, then Cara did the move that won him the match at Over the Limit, and it got him the win again.

WINNER: Cara, at 4:47. Either that finisher wasn’t a botch at the PPV, or he has botched it twice now. Upon replay, it did look like he intended to face-plant Chavo, rather than having Chavo flip like a traditional head-scissors.

2 – CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Cole went into full heel mode ragging on Bryan. Arm-drag by Bryan, but he caught an elbow charging in on Rhodes in the corner. Bryan countered Rhodes’ leg-lock and then applied a modified surfboard. Kick to the chest put Rhodes down for a one-count at 1:04 of the match. Bryan was hip-tossed over the top rope, leading to a break at 1:31.

The show returned with 4:48 gone in the match. Bryan fired back with European uppercuts, but Rhodes countered and kicked Bryan right in the stomach. Rhodes continued working over Bryan. Rhodes appeared to be out-wrestling Bryan, but the announcers were too busy squabbling to get over any storyline in the match. Bryan got his boot up in the corner, then came at Rhodes with a flying leg lariat. Running clothesline took Rhodes down at 7:30. Dropkick in the corner, then Bryan went to the top. High missile dropkick for a near-fall at 8:03. Rhodes countered a LeBell lock attempt and rolled Bryan up for two. Bryan did the same for a near-fall. Springboard kick to the face by Rhodes. Cross-Rhoes countered into the LeBell Lock, and Rhodes immediately tapped.

WINNER: Bryan, at 9:08. Surprise win there, and a good one for Bryan over Rhodes, who has been a major player lately.

After the match, Rhodes got his heat back by attacking Bryan. Unfortunately, that mean the win by Bryan was overshadowed. Cross-Rhodes by Cody, then he put a bag over Bryan’s head. A Bryan vs. Rhodes feud would be one I’d look forward to. Did Mathews just say “symbolical”?

3 – HEATH SLATER vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

No entrance for Slater. Slater did his best to use his speed, but he was put down by a Zeke right hand. Jackson grabbed Slater in a choke and bealed him out of the corner. Slater stopped Zeke’s momentum and tried to stay on top of him, but Zeke kicked out of a cover with authority. Jackson made his comeback just shy of 2:00 in, splashing Slater in the corner. Big bodyslam from Jackson, followed by another. Torture Rack applied, which Cole called by name. But before Slater could submit, Justin Gabriel and Wade Barrett ran out for the DQ.

WINNER: Jackson, via DQ, at 2:34. We still don’t have a really good reason to root for Jackson as a babyface. Mathews did try to get over the idea that he was being bullied by the Corre, which is something, I guess.

Jackson was able to fend off all three men, and Corre had to re-group outside the ring while Jackson flexed inside it.

4 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. KANE

Ranjin Singh accompanied Khali. So apparently, there are no stipulations that would make this different than any other match, despite being billed as a “Monster’s Brawl” match. Khali shoved Kane down on a lock-up attempt. They went at it again and Khali elbowed Kane in the corner. Kane shot back with a big uppercut. Kane hit the ropes, then hit the mat after a clothesline from Khali. Khali whipped Kane into the buckle, then kicked at Kane. Nerve hold applied by Khali, as the announcers noted Singh was a bit more animated at ringside. At 2:00, Kane grabbed Khali’s throat. Khali did the same, and dumped Kane over the top rope. Kane caught Khali and brought him throat-first over the top rope. Top rope clothesline from Kane, which took Khali off his feet. Kane made the cover and picked up the win.

WINNER: Kane, at 2:35. Yeah, it was Khali vs. Kane. Fill in the blanks there.

Jinder Mahal’s music played, and he walked to the ring with a microphone. He spoke in a foreign language (possibly from the Foreign Land, Ishbu’s home). He got into the ring and slapped Khali across the face again. Singh then got in Mahal’s face, but Mahal shoved him. Khali returned the shove to Mahal and put a finger in Mahal’s face. Singh continued ranting in Mahal’s general direction, but Khali then extended his arms and applied the Khali Vice to Singh. Mahal was quite pleased, and they played his music to end the segment. Cole called it an act of cowardice on Khali’s part. Mathews questioned the relationship between Khali and Mahal.

5 – ALICIA FOX & TAMINA vs. A.J & KAITLYN

Natalya accompanied the greenhorns to the ring, while the heels were already in the ring. They had an inset interview with Nattie, AJ, and Kaitlyn. They did acknowledge AJ and Kaitlyn’s NXT season three experience. Headscissor take-over by AJ on Fox. She tagged in Kaitlyn who hopped over the ropes and took Fox down with a headbutt to the mid-section. Kaitlyn grabbed a handful of hair as the announcers did a good job talking about what Kaitlyn and AJ did on NXT. Side slam by Kaitlyn, but Tamina broke up the pin. AJ fended her off and Fox beheaded Kaitlyn with a beautiful axe kick.

WINNERS: Fox and Tamina, at 1:36. No explanation for Tamina being a heel here. Kaitlyn’s offense didn’t look great, but she and AJ didn’t have a lot of time to establish themselves here. Still, good to see those two getting some TV time, although it’s probably mostly due to injuries to Layla and Kharma’s absence.

6 – SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY vs. CHRISTIAN - #1 CONTENDER’S MATCH FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

The heels double-teamed Christian as Booker predicted a win for Sheamus. Sheamus held Christian so Henry could punch him in the gut. Christian was sent into the ropes, but ducked under to get a breather. Sheamus tried to take the fight to him out there, but Christian landed a drop-toe hold on Sheamus into the ring steps. Henry brought Christian in the hard way, and picked him up, only to let gravity do the rest. He got a near-fall off that at the 1:50 mark. Henry choked Christian with his boot, then stood on top of him near the ropes. Henry charged, but Christian low-bridged him. Sheamus snuck up from behind and rolled Christian up for two. Brogue Kick missed, but Christian hit the Killswitch at 3:15. Henry pulled Christian out of the ring at the two-count. Orton’s music then played and he walked out, perhaps to get a closer look at his possible opponents next Friday. They went to break at 3:50.

Back at 7:40 of the match, and Orton had joined the announcers at ringside. He did not, however, have a headset. Henry had Christian in a bearhug. Sheamus took the fight to Henry in order to get back into the ring, but Henry impressively belly-to-bellied Sheamus back to ringside. Henry slowly worked over Christian, concentrating on the back. A missed splash gave Christian a chance to recover at 10:30 of the contest. Dropkick off the second rope rattled Henry, and a second one felled him. He only got a two-count, though. Sheamus cut Christian off as he tried to go to the top rope, and Sheamus laid the knees in on Henry. Sheamus went to the top to suplex Christian off, but Christian knocked him off instead. He dove at Henry, who caught him and slammed him. Sheamus broke up the pin attempt. Irish Hammer knocked Henry right out of the ring. He then covered Christian at 12:15, good for a two-count. High Cross was set up, but Christian got out the back door. Flip kick in the corner, followed by a Tornado DDT. Henry went after the champ, then went back into the ring. Christian side-stepped Henry, who splashed Sheamus. Spear by Christian on Sheamus. Orton recovered and RKO’d Henry. That distracted the ref and didn’t allow him to see Christian covering Sheamus. By the time he realized it, Sheamus kicked out. Charles Robinson explained that Orton was in the ring and he had to get him out. Christian pleaded his case unsuccessfully, then turned around right into a Brogue Kick by Sheamus for the pin. Mathews shamelessly called next week’s match between Sheamus and Orton, “perhaps the biggest match in Smackdown history.”

WINNER: Sheamus, at 14:29. Sheamus vs. Orton didn’t exactly set the world on fire on Raw, so we’ll see what they can cook up here.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 01 2011, 11:35 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-30-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50438.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Exemplifying why WWE is so inefficient with these types of matches, the announcers split their attention four ways on Dolph, Kofi, Vickie, and themselves early in the match. Dolph took control as Cole acted like he was filling time talking about Dolph's college education and Lawler cracked fat jokes on Vickie. Kofi made a comeback as Cole turned to talking about Kofi's "rough upbringing." Dolph then knocked Kofi to the floor and they cut to break with Kofi in trouble.

Back live, Dolph was trying to choke the life out of Kofi on the mat. Cole noted a victory for Dolph could put him in the hunt for the U.S. Title. Cole talked up Ziggler's credentials as Cole said he sees both of them having futures on Raw. That's like a Week 3 discussion after a quiet debut, not something Year 4 or 5 into their careers, but because of WWE's typical inefficient booking, mid-carders can't sustain momentum.

Kofi made a comeback at 9:00 and warmed up the Trouble in Paradise, but Ziggler ducked and slapped on the sleeperhold. Kofi rolled through, though, and ate a kick to the face in the corner. Kofi then went up top as Vickie screamed & shouted at him. Kofi wanted a high cross-body, but Ziggler moved and followed with a Fameasser for a close two count. The two men regrouped and Kofi nearly scored a win with a small package, but Kofi came back with the Zig-Zag in the corner. Ziggler with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 10:49. It looks like WWE will be setting up Kofi vs. Ziggler for the U.S. Title on a future event. The problem is Kofi hasn't been established as champion to where the audience can get behind this program. (**)

2 -- BELLA TWINS (Divas champion Brie & Nikki Bella) vs. EVE & KELLY KELLY

The Bella twins were already in the ring back from break. After a quick video on Kelly part of Maxim's Top 100, the tag match started. The heels quickly isolated and double-teamed Eve, then Kelly hot-tagged in at 2:00. After the action broke down, Kelly scored with a Rocker Dropper for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 2:56. Kelly is positioned as the babyface Diva WWE is pushing this month, so they seem to be continuing Kelly's chase for the Divas Title. (*)

* Cole interviews Alex Riley, calls him names and gets knocked down by Riley. Miz attacks Riley from behind but Riley turns the tables on his former mentor.

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK (w/Mason Ryan)

The bell sounded and Cole noted American Idol contestant James Durbin wore a Punk t-shirt on Idol last week. One of those decisions WWE makes where pop culture reference > maintaining a heel as a heel. Mason got involved one minute in, ramming Rey into the ringpost. They cut to break at 1:25 with Punk in control.

Back from break, Punk worked over Rey as Cole explained he included Wayne Newton in his list of traitors with Riley because of Wayne's role in "National Lampoon Vacation: Las Vegas." Paging Mr. Papagiorgio. Rey then escaped a hold with pizzazz and Cole said it's "one of those magical moments Rey creates." More of that breaking-the-suspension-of-disbelief commentary from Cole instead of saying Rey uses it to win matches. The action spilled to the outside before returning to the ring. Rey and Punk traded dazzling counters before Punk landed a smashing backbreaker across his knee for a two count. More intense counters before Punk smashed Rey with an enziguiri kick that Rey sold by slumping to the mat like he was KO'ed. Punk made the cover for the win. Punk and Ryan then celebrated on the way out of the ring as Rey sold in the ring.

WINNER: Punk at 9:06. Good finish to the match. Rey is Teflon, so the loss didn't hurt. Punk is up-and-down from week-to-week, and this didn't seem like the first step to pushing him into the title picture, but solid follow-up on a quality win could get him there. (**1/4)

* Kharma makes it official...she's pregnant but she'll be back. Bellas come out and mock her, giving her more of an insentive to return next year.

4 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER

Lawler asked Cole if Swagger should be on his traitor list and Cole said Swagger is right up there with Riley. Swagger and Bourne suddenly went flying over the top rope together, looking like something from a Tough Enough training session. Swagger then rolled Bourne back into the ring to make a cover for a nearfall. Swagger proceeded to do push-ups using Bourne's back as a base, which drew a reaction from the crowd. Swagger began toying with Bourne, who suddenly rolled up Swagger with a victory roll for a quick three and the win. Cole called it a "huge upset" for Bourne, showing WWE doesn't think much of Bourne despite Bourne being side-by-side with Cena just ten months ago. Post-match: Bourne quickly scurried out of the ring as Swagger threw a fit in the ring. His top was about to blow.

WINNER: Bourne at 3:16. Just another filler match between these two that could have meant much more. They're back to the same 'ol mid-card story with Swagger focusing on his temper and cockiness getting in the way of victories while Bourne is back to being a lower-carder who's only lucky if he gets a win. (*)

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. R-TRUTH -- non-title match

Cena and Truth locked up, Cena scored some early offense, and Truth bailed to the outside complaining about an unfair advantage. Cena scored some more offense and Truth bailed again. Truth paused to stare into the crowd and point at a fan on the second row. Truth kept walking around the ring pointing at fans. Cue up a loud dueling chant that excited Truth. Cena then clotheslined Truth and dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Truth broke up the usual Cena routine by bailing to the floor to taunt the fans some more. Truth again bailed to the floor when Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment. Truth said he's not taking this.

Truth hopped over the guardrail and walked into the stands. Cena had enough and chased down Truth, who then clotheslined Cena to the arena floor. Truth hopped back over the guardrail and climbed into the ring. The ref reached a ten count and Cena was counted out, giving Truth the win.

WINNER: Truth via count-out at 4:01. More of a match than an angle, with the "match" serving as a means to an end of apparently giving Truth some smarts to go with his craziness.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2011, 12:39 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-31-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50470.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- TITUS YOUNG & HORNSWOGGLE vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Maryse) & TYSON KIDD -- Tag Team Turmoil

Cole was confused on Maryse's relationships during NXT, trying to get caught up on the relationship issues on the show. Meanwhile, Titus dominated early on as Cole weirdly continued to hype up Hornswoggle as his favorite Pro in the history of NXT. Horny tagged in and did a bottle-opening head scissors on Kidd to dizzy both men. Titus tagged back in after Horny got his spot in, then Titus executed a shoulderbreaker for a two count. Suddenly, Horny walked up to Maryse with a flower, which drew Cannon's anger. Titus tried to defend Horny, but Kidd smashed him into the ropes. Kidd followed with a springboard elbow smash and it was good for the win. Immediately after the match, Yoshi Tatsu's music hit. Out came Yoshi and Saxton for the next match in the Turmoil.

WINNERS: Lucky & Kidd at 2:38.

2 -- LUCKY CANNON (w/Maryse) & TYSON KIDD vs. YOSHI TATSU & BYRON SAXTON -- Tag Team Turmoil

They returned from break with the next match already in progress. Cole noted a correction from Maryse that she was never with Yoshi and she is not with Cannon. Yoshi dominated Kidd early on, then Saxton tagged himself in and demanded Yoshi get out of his ring. Saxton, of course, lost control of the match, allowing the heels to work on Saxton. Saxton made a comeback and waved off Yoshi, not wanting to tag out to him. So, Lucky cut off Saxton and the heels went back to work on him. Meanwhile, the crowd chanted, "We want Yoshi."

No dice as the match continued with the heels working on Saxton. Saxton made a one-armed comeback and Lucky kind of fell down in the ring. He then kind of pulled himself up and intercepted Saxton's top-rope move with a boot to the chest. Cannon with the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Lucky & Kidd at 5:58. Cannon needs so much work in the ring.

3 -- LUCKY CANNON (w/Maryse) & TYSON KIDD vs. KOZLOV & CONOR O'BRIAN -- Tag Team Turmoil

Back from break, the match was in progress with Kozlov on the defensive against Cannon. Suddenly, JTG's music hit. JTG came out on-stage in street clothes trying to distract Kozlov and O'Brian. JTG then made his way to ringside and Cole noted he didn't think commentary could get any worse. Cole instantly turned into JTG's best buddy once JTG joined commentary. The match slowed down with the heels working over O'Brian. JTG then noted he's picking the Rookie, I Don't Care, to win this season. Cole cackled and said it was like talking to a piece of cardboard before JTG came out here. Cannon continued to slow this thing down to a sluggish pace working on O'Brian. O'Brian finally broke free and hot-tagged Kozlov, who ran over Cannon. Kozlov eventually finished off Cannon with the Iron Curtain for the win.

WINNERS: Kozlov & O'Brian at 5:08. The two worst Rookies in terms of wrestling ability - O'Brian and Cannon - having an exchange for three minutes was dreadful. They looked so lost. On-camera, it's the only thing holding Cannon back from being a future star.

4 -- KOZLOV & CONOR O'BRIAN vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & DARREN YOUNG

Back from break, Kozlov was working on Darren Young. Meanwhile, JTG continued to sell frustration that his Rookie, Jacob Novak, didn't take his advice and found himself eliminated. JTG also said he should be in the match right now. Meanwhile, Young and O'Brian had an exchange before Chavo tagged in for a few moments. Young re-entered and wore down O'Brian for a bit. O'Brian and Young then awkwardly butted heads in the corner and Kozlov begged for a tag.

Kozlov received a tag, as did Chavo. Kozlov landed multiple head butts before smashing Chavo in the sternum with a head butt. Kozlov wanted a powerslam finish, but Young pulled down Chavo in mid-air. Chavo then dropkicked Kozlov to the floor. Confusion over the legal man here. Chavo and Young eventually reset and began working over Kozlov. The crowd was hot with hate for Chavo, which was a good sign for this match. Chavo and Young tried a double-suplex, but Kozlov blocked and double-suplexed them, drawing a reaction from Cole.

Kozlov then made a hot tag to O'Brian, who tried to show fire making a comeback. The heels cut him off, though, and Kozlov went flying to the outside. Chavo also went flying to the outside. In the ring, O'Brian executed some sort of rolling suplex move and it was good for the win. O'Brian then fell down trying to celebrate, which only drew more anger from JTG. Kozlov and O'Brian celebrated in the ring as Grisham noted O'Brian picked up three Redemption Points by winning the turmoil.

WINNERS: Kozlov & O'Brian at 7:52. O'Brian has to go home. Awful. The match was decent and the focus on wrestling with Redemption Points on the line and four straight matches was good, but some of these Rookies seem like lost causes in the ring.

ingside: Maryse and Striker were with the five remaining Rookies ringside. Maryse awkwardly set up the elimination before Striker talked up all five of their efforts on NXT Redemption. Cue up the drumroll to find out who's going home...Byron Saxton.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 04 2011, 10:53 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-2-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50508.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MATT HARDY vs. CRIMSON

Crimson quickly knocked Hardy to the outside and Hardy grabbed his jaw while catching his breath. Back in the ring, Hardy took a beating as the announcers continued to talk up Crimson. Crimson landed a suplex and Hardy rolled to the outside again.

Crimson tried to drag Hardy back into the ring, but Hardy countered with a neckbreaker across the top rope. Hardy went to work on Crimson before climbing up top, where Crimson cut him off. Hardy knocked him to the mat, though, and went for a guillotine leg drop. Moments later, Crimson made a comeback and executed a double-arm DDT for a nearfall. The action came to a standstill with Crimson blown up, then Hardy started doing his airplane dance in the ring looking for Twist of Hate. Crimson avoided it, though, and landed the sky-high bomb for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Samoa Joe hit the ring and Crimson easily discarded him with a spear. Joe then rolled out of the ring and did his yelling & screaming deal.

WINNER: Crimson at 6:03. Pretty decent match, but Crimson lost his way near the end of the match. He's getting there, but he's not quite there. Cue up Matt Hardy patting himself on the back on Twitter. (*1/2)

2 -- MISS TESSMACHER vs. ANGELINA LOVE (w/Winter)

Angelina methodically worked over Tessmacher, maintaining a zombie-like pace. Tessmacher tried a comeback, but Angelina cut her off and landed a neckbreaker-like finisher for the decisive pinfall win. Afterward, Winter instructed Angelina to break her. After Angelina sufficiently choked out Tessmacher, Winter called her off and they stood tall to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Angelina at 3:32. Effective focus on Angelina leading to the Knockouts Title match at Slammiversary, although they were missing the actual champ, Mickie James, from the segment.

3 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. TV champion ERIC YOUNG a/k/a Not So Great Muta -- non-title match

Young stood off to the side of the ring as Anderson mockingly did Sting's Stinger Splashes. Young figured out Anderson wasn't really paying tribute, but mocking Sting. Meanwhile, Tenay prematurely celebrated Bischoff's TNA exit. Young tried to exit the match, but Anderson cut him off and continued to mock Sting while working over Young. Young then made a comeback, including a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Young followed with a top-rope moonsault, then Gunner showed up on the ring apron to distract Young. In the confusion, Young spewed Anderson with the mist. He then rolled up Anderson for the win.

Post-match: Gunner jumped Young to continue their feud. Anderson then joined in the beat-down on Young. Sting's music hit and out came the real Sting looking for a piece of action. Anderson ran out of the ring, then Sting clotheslined Gunner to the outside. Sting returned to the ring to check on Young while Anderson paced around ringside. Tenay plugged Sting vs. Anderson at Slammiversary in ten days.

WINNER: Young at 3:58. The bizarre build-up to Sting-Anderson continues.

4 -- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. KAZARIAN -- #1 contender match to X Division Title

Basic back-and-forth early on. Tenay plugged a confrontation between Bully Ray and A.J. Styles up next, plus Hulk Hogan arriving at the building later in the show. Tenay then plugged the new TNA fantasy game.

Kazarian worked over Kendrick for a while after Kendrick missed with a suicide dive on the floor. Meanwhile, Taz dropped this classic TNA line: "Abyss and the X Division is like an oxymoron." How is it an oxymoron when the X Division isn't even defined? Something can't contradict itself when it has no definition. Kaz and Kendrick began countering each other, then Kaz nailed a Shining Wizard that took Kendrick to the floor. Back in the ring, Kendrick tried a quick roll-up, but Kaz escaped. More pin counters, then Kendrick found himself on the floor.

Suddenly, the bell sounded at 8:00. Everyone was confused on this. Ref Hebner declared this match a draw. Apparently it's the Russo Rule if a match goes beyond eight minutes, they have to end it or else the audience will tune out in droves. Hebner then got on the headsets and relayed information from Bischoff that he's adding five minutes to the match.

The match re-started and Abyss came storming to the ring with possession of the X Title. Kendrick hopped on Abyss's back, but Abyss flung him away. Abyss KO'ed Kaz, then dropped Kendrick with the Shock Treatment. Hebner told him to get out, but Abyss went to work on Kaz, dropping him with the Black Hole Slam. Abyss then talked to the ringside camera about his latest Art of War philosophy. He declared the war over; the X Division is dead.

WINNER: ??? at 10:30 when they cut away from Abyss. Good TV match with some nice athleticism and counters before the non-finish.

5 -- KURT ANGLE & MATT MORGAN vs. JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) & SCOTT STEINER

Angle got his hands on Jarrett early on and went through a methodical wrestling sequence trying to wear down his most-hated rival. Morgan then tagged in and Jarrett wanted a tag, but Steiner wanted nothing to do with Morgan. Angle and Morgan then began working over Jarrett as they cut to a split-screen of Bischoff showing the just-now-arriving Hogan the paperwork he received at the top of the show. Hogan told him not to worry about. Suddenly, Taz said Hogan and Bischoff haven't even lasted a year, saying they came in to TNA in October 2010. What? There was January 4, 2010, a failed Monday Night Wars, a retreat back to Thursdays, etc. Tenay then plugged next week's just-signed main event of Sting & Eric Young vs. Anderson & Gunner.

As for the match, Jarrett tried to leave to run away from Angle, but Angle gave chase. Karen then interjected herself into the proceedings. Everyone disappeared behind a pillar on-stage and the announcers acted like something happened. They cut to Kurt staring down at the ground. Karen was apparently at the bottom of the steps, injured from a fall. Jeff was screaming and crying for help. Suddenly, back in the ring, Hebner made a slow three count for Steiner pinning Morgan. Back off-stage, Angle cut a promo on Jeff for being an idiot involving Karen in this. Jeff cried for help as paramedics showed up. Angle told Jeff it was his fault. Jeff said Angle pushed her down the stairs and told security to get Angle out of here. Angle continued to cuss out Jarrett before they cut to break.

WINNER: Steiner & Jarrett at 6:30.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 04 2011, 10:55 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-2-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50512.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD (w/Matt Striker) vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta quickly knocked Kidd to the floor and aggressively attacked him on the outside before Kidd hip-tossed him hard into the guardrail. Striker kept punching numbers on his phones, disinterested in the match. Striker handed Korpela his business card, continuing to put on an agent's act. Korpela asked Booker if he's ever had one of those opponents he's been so evenly-matched against. Since The Crippler Who Shall Not Be Named does not exist in WWE history, Booker referred to Christian. Booker was asked about managers during his career and referenced Sherri Martel. Meanwhile, Striker handed a business card to Booker. Striker then became interested in the match and gave instructions to Kidd, who suddenly scored a pinfall by trapping Barreta to the mat as he tried a victory roll.

Post-match: Striker took the mic and said he's watched a bunch of people trot out here as advisors, but he's figured it out: you don't need an advisor because you're Tyson Kidd. Striker said he's even better than Bret Hart. The crowd booed. Striker said Kidd needs an agent, then heeled on Korpela. Striker said Kidd's face is going to be all over WWE.com by the end of the week. He suggested they grow together. Kidd cackled and Striker said he's going to get him on PPV. "Better than Bret Hart," Striker declared.

WINNER: Kidd at 4:23. Striker's act came across like such a put-on prior to the promo, which was better than anything during the match. Apparently this is the end of the Managerial Search and it gives Striker something to do. But, of course, now the *burning question* is whether there's a conflict of interest with Striker the host of NXT and Kidd one of the Pros. Not that anyone cares.

2 -- JIMMY & JEY USO vs. THE CORRE (JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER)

WWE piped in some cheers for the heel Usos on the way to the ring to face the former tag champions. Korpela asked Booker what the Usos need to do in order to move up the ladder and Booker said they need to put on weight. Jimmy did a Rikishi dance move in-between moves and clotheslined Gabriel. The Usos continued to work on Gabriel before bodies started flying on the outside. The Usos then stood tall in the ring as the heels recovered on the floor.

Back on Superstars, the Usos continued working on The Corre as more cheers were piped in. Jey then found himself on the wrong end of a clothesline on the floor, allowing Corre to isolate Jey back in the ring. Meanwhile, Booker interjected a random item that WWE wrestlers get paid more money if they win in the middle of the ring. That would change the whole complexion of WWE if that were actually played up on TV. "Razzle dazzle!" Booker declared a few times as the action broke down. Uso #1 then got hung out to dry on the top turnbuckle and slumped down to the mat. Gabriel followed right up with his trademark 450 Splash for the pin and the win. The announcers played up Gabriel & Slater's Tag Title quest after the match.

WINNERS: Corre at 7:23. A needed win for Corre just to pick up a win, even if hardly anyone sees it. Meanwhile, Booker's cliché-o-meter exploded during this match.

3 -- MELINA vs. GAIL KIM

The Raw portion of the show picked up with Divas singles action. Scott Stanford noted each Divas match is an opportunity to move up the contendership list for a shot at Brie Bella. Once the match started, Melina instantly began screaming and shouting at Gail. Melina continued to work over Gail's lower back, risking DQ with some work in the ropes. The crowd tried rallying behind Gail, who eventually mounted a comeback at 4:15 with a top-rope missile dropkick. Both Divas sold on the mat, then they went to the finish with Gail countering a sunset flip bomb with Eat Defeat for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gail at 4:50. Formula TV singles match and a solid win for Gail, who is always available to be spotlighted with the Divas roster diminishing by the week.

4 -- WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV -- non-title match

Early feeling-out process involving all four men, then Santino taunted Otunga with the Cobra to pop the crowd, but Mike blindsided Santino and began working him over. Loud "Santino, Santino" chant as Nexus continued to have their way with Santino. Otunga and Santino then had a double-knockdown center-ring, allowing Santino to tag in Kozlov. The action broke down moments later and the ref didn't see Nexus double-team Kozlov, setting up Otunga for a uranage on Koz for the win. Stanford called it a "huge blow" to Santino & Kozlov's chances of rising up the tag ranks. After a replay of the finish, Nexus was shown celebrating on the way out of the ring. The faces were shown recovering in the ring as Stanford signed off with a final shot of Nexus standing tall on-stage.

WINNERS: New Nexus at 4:34. Fine match, albeit short for a "main event." The build to Tag Team Title Turmoil continues...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 06 2011, 02:21 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50535.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. MARK HENRY

Christian showed off his new t-shirt during his entrance. Mathews questioned why Christian was still smiling as they showed Mathews, Booker T and Michael Cole at the announce table. And it only took three minutes this week for me to be sick of Cole. Christian tried to attack Henry upstairs, never a good idea. Henry went to work on Christian, forcing Christian to slide out of the ring to recover. Henry followed him out, but Christian went back in and dropkicked Henry through the ropes. He tried to dive onto Henry, but Henry caught him and threw him to the apron. I’ve noticed the referees have been mic’d more than usual. First cover for Henry got a two-count at 1:38. Henry then just tossed Christian in the air, with the Canadian landing front-first onto the mat. Henry tried to finish things at 2:43, but he missed the big splash. Christian again tried to go high with clotheslines, to no avail. Middle-rope elbow by Christian, and he still couldn’t take the man off his feet. Henry clotheslined Christian over the top and to ringside. Drop toe-hold by Christian sent Henry face-first into the announce table. To the top went Christian, but again, he tried a cross-body and Henry caught him. Christian got out of the move though and connected on the Killswitch for the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 4:28. Nice bounce-back win for Christian, but the psychology didn’t make him look too bright.

2 – ALICIA FOX & TAMINA vs. AJ & KAITLYN

The heels were already in the ring, and Rosa Mendes was with them. Natalya was once again with the babyfaces, who also did an inset interview. Kaitlyn claimed last week’s match was a warm-up, and Nattie said she knows they can do it. Tamina shoved Kaitlyn to start, and Kaitlyn gave it right back. Kaitlyn was whipped into the corner, but avoided a Tamina splash. Headbutt to the gut by Kaitlyn, followed by a roll-up for two. Tamina tagged out as the announcers discussed Kharma’s situation. Fox, clad in pink (as a shot at Natalya, according to Mathews), was knocked down by Kaitlyn. AJ tagged in and gave Fox a hurricanrana. AJ sold better than probably any other Diva. Tamina tagged in and landed a nice bodyslam. Samoan Drop by Tamina for the win.

WINNERS: Fox & Tamina, at 2:03. I’ll be patient to see where they’re going with this, as far as introducing AJ, having her team with Kaitlyn, and being led by Natalya.

3 – JINDER MAHAL vs. YOSHI TATSU

This is Mahal’s in-ring debut in WWE. He was accompanied by Great Khali. I thought for sure Mahal would be squashing Trent Barreta here. Mahal had his name on the back of his white tights. Jumping knee to the face of Tatsu. Vertical suplex by Mahal for only two. Full-nelson slam by Mahal, shades of Tom Brandi’s House Quake! Anyway, it got the three-count.

WINNER: Mahal, at 1:10.

Mahal stood Tatsu up to shake his hand after the match, but it was just a ploy to distract Khali, who came from behind Tatsu and applied the vice grip. The two men stood with their arms raised after the match. They replayed the finish at the post-match attack.

4 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. WADE BARRETT – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

They showed Jackson fighting off Corre last week. Referee Justin King asked for a clean break from both men in the corner. Jackson gave it to him, but Barrett did not. Body shots in the opposite corner by Jackson. Beal by Jackson that almost caused Barrett to land on his head. Booker even admitted Jackson was limited in his movement. Barrett kicked at Jackson while he was lying on the apron. Impressive Boss Man Slam by Barrett for two. Barrett stretched the neck of Jackson at 1:40. Inverted atomic drop by Barrett, but Jackson came back and tossed Wade over the top rope. Back in the ring, Jackson fought off his former teammate. Big splash in the corner, then three bodyslams. Torture Rack was next, but Barrett raked Jackson’s eyes and went to the apron. Jackson kicked him down to the arena floor. Justin Gabriel and Heath Slater came to ringside and surrounded Jackson. The referee continued to count, and Barrett, though he appeared as if he could make it to his feet and into the ring, was counted out.

WINNER: Jackson, at 4:07. About what you’d expect from these two.

After the match, Corre re-grouped and jumped Jackson. Well, actually it was just Gabriel and Slater; Barrett feigned going into the ring, but let his minions do his bidding instead. He just walked to the back as Jackson once again fought off Gabriel and Slater.

5 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE

Several standing switches between the two began the match. Nice dropkick by Bryan for a one-count. DiBiase countered a hip-toss and turned it into a pin for two. Right hand by DiBiase, but Bryan fired back with chops. Kick to the chest by Bryan for two at 1:33. Rhodes and his bag men came to the ring at about this time. They went to break at 1:52 of the contest.

They were back at 4:40, with DiBiase stretching Bryan. The offense by DiBiase continued for the next minute or more. Hard whip into the buckle by DiBiase. Bryan flipped out of the corner, barely avoiding knocking noggins with DiBiase. Both men were down at 6:55, and once on their feet, Bryan kicked DiBiase several times in the chest, showing some fire in the process. Hurricanrana off the top by Bryan, but DiBiase rolled through for a two-count. Clothesline by DiBiase (with a 360 sell by Bryan) for two. DiBiase was sent out of the ring and Bryan flew through the ropes and into DiBiase at 8:06. Off the top came Bryan, but DiBiase met him with a dropkick for two. DiBiase set up for Dream Street, but Bryan countered and into the LeBell Lock. He tapped.

WINNER: Bryan, at 9:27. Nice enough match. DiBiase was able to keep up with Bryan, though the segment of the match where he was on offense was nothing thrilling.

Rhodes and DiBiase attacked Bryan after the match, but Sin Cara’s music played and he ran out. He took out Rhodes with a springboard bodyscissors (that looked like it was supposed to be a hurricanrana), then a tilt-a-whirl headscissors on DiBiase. Now THIS is a tag team feud I can get behind.

6 – RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH WITH CHRISTIAN AS SPECIAL GUEST REFEREE

Formal introductions were done by Tony Chimel. Sheamus worked a side headlock on the champion early on. Shoulder knock-down for a one-count. Orton flew out of the corner and nailed Sheamus with a clothesline. The fight went to the outside, where both men traded having the upper hand. In the end, Orton had it and rolled Sheamus into the ring. After a near-fall, Orton went outside the ring. Sheamus followed him out and drove Orton’s spine into the ring-post. Back in the ring went Orton and Sheamus got two on the cover. They went to break 3:42 into the title match.

Back with Orton working out of a rest-hold at 7:16. Orton brought the pain with right hands, then Sheamus with a knee-lift for two. Hard forearm shots onto the chest of Orton. Another cover, another two-count. Sheamus set up for a suplex, but Orton blocked and landed one of his own. Both men were down at the 9:00 mark, with Ortno leaning ont eh ropes to get back to his feet. Sheamus ran into a big boot and hit some of his signature moves. Vintage Orton backbreaker for two. Sheamus caught Orton charging into the corner, then pulled himself up to the top rope. Orton met him and hammered away with rights. Suplex off the middle rope by Orton. He made the cover at 10:34 for a near-fall. Sheamus propelled himself over the top and landed a shoulderblock for two. Impressive for a big guy, especially after enduring an 11:00 match to that point. Powerslam by Sheamus for two. Jackknife cover for two by Orton. Irish Curse back-breaker by Sheamus for two, as things began to go back-and-forth again. Sheamus missed a running kick, as Booker called Orton playing possum. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton. He set up for the RKO at about the 13:00 mark, but Sheamus shrugged off an attempt and put Orton down with a Polish Hammer. Sheamus signaled for the High Cross, but Orton slipped out the back. He was almost shoved into Christian, but Orton stopped short and Sheamus ran into Christian. Sheamus apologized and then took down Orton with the Brogue Kick. Christian made the count, but stopped short of the three-count. He feigned an arm injury, then Sheamus got pissed and shoved Christian. Christian punched him and Orton landed the RKO for the win.

WINNER: Orton, at 14:28. Sheamus accidentally hit Christian and Christian cost him the title in retaliation? And Sheamus is the heel and Christian the face? I liked the match.

As Orton celebrated the win, Christian nailed Orton with the belt, out of nowhere. “I can beat you Randy, I know it!” he shouted at Orton. Then he posed with the title as he stood over Orton. They replayed Christian knocking Orton out, even in slow motion! Christian walked to the back with the title as other refs checked on Orton. He got to the top of the ramp and raised the title over his head as the show faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 08 2011, 12:34 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-6-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50583.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champion MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY (w/David Otunga) vs. SANTINO (w/Kozlov)

Cole mentioned that non-existent Superstars show, where this feud played out last week. Santino quickly cleared Mike to the outside and started a premature trumpet celebration. Cole recapped the opening segment involving McMahon and Austin as Mike wore down Santino. "C'mon, baby, show 'em why we're the champs," Otunga encouraged from the outside. Santino then came back with the sailor's salute fist drop as Cole called Santino a goofball. On the outside, Kozlov ran over Otunga as confusion ensued. Back in the ring, Santino dropped Mike with the Cobra and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Santino at 4:33. Apparently this positions Santino & Kozlov for a future Tag Title shot against the Nexus scrubs. (*)

2 -- BELLA TWINS (Divas champion BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA) vs. KELLY KELLY & BETH PHOENIX

The Bellas isolated Kelly early on, then Beth tagged in, cleaned house, avoided Twin Magic, and hit the Glam Slam for the pin and the win. Beth and Kelly celebrated the victory, with Kelly remaining in the winner's circle on a quest for the Divas Title.

WINNERS: Beth & Kelly at 2:23.

3 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK (w/Mason Ryan)

After an early feeling-out process, Rey knocked Punk to the floor. Rey then flew through the ropes with a head scissors that slammed Punk into the mat. Rey shot Ryan a look, then returned to the ring to continue wearing down Punk. Rey tried to follow up with a top-rope move, but Punk crotched him, hung him upside down, and landed a running attack the mid-section. Punk began wearing down Rey as they hit the top of the hour.

Cole reset the show, noting Andy won Tough Enough. Rey and Punk battled up top and Rey knocked Punk to the mat before nailing a cross-body block. Both men sold on the mat before Rey came flying out of the TV screen with a high-altitude springboard turnaround splash from the second rope. Punk absorbed the attack before hitting a snap powerslam for a two count. Punk lowered his kneepad and tried to use his exposed knee as a weapon, but Rey blocked and set him up for the 619. Ryan hopped on the ring apron, though, and Rey stopped short. No matter, as Rey smashed Punk into Ryan. With Ryan out of the picture, Rey went up top and delivered a big splash on Punk for the win. Rey quickly left the ring as Cole noted the recent singles series is now 1-1. After a replay of the finish, they showed Rey celebrating and Punk showing frustration in the ring.

WINNER: Rey at 8:42. Fine TV match, but they certainly seemed to be saving something for a likely third match in their current "series." (**)

4 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Dolph Ziggler) -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Cole slipped, calling Kingston's opponent "Zack Ziggler." Ryder scored some early offense and Ziggler noted Ryder has been scouting Kofi in-between YouTube shows. Kofi then made a comeback and scored signature offense on Ryder. Ryder then got up, grabbed the ropes to avoid Kofi, and kicked him away. Suddenly, Kingston smashed Ryder with the Trouble in Paradise for the win. Ziggler continued to heel on Kingston, vowing to take out Kofi if he puts his title on the line. Ziggler added that Kofi's time is numbered as champion.

WINNER: Kingston at 2:40. Effective getting over Ziggler's heel personality and showing off Kingston's offense to build to a future title match. Someone in creative is paying attention. (*)

5 -- BOOKER T vs. JACK SWAGGER

Back-and-forth exchanges early on, then Swagger clotheslined Booker over the top rope to the floor. Swagger followed up with some offense ringside, then rolled Booker back into the ring as Cole continued to plug Twitter. Swagger wore down Booker, but then walked into a leg whip. Swagger rolled to the floor to collect himself and the referee was mic'ed up, which meant a count-out was coming into play. Swagger shouted that he doesn't need this. He stood next to the ring as the ref reached a ten count, giving Booker the count-out win.

Post-match: Bourne jumped Swagger from behind, then Swagger chased him into the ring. Booker intercepted Swagger with a knock-down, then Bourne climbed up top and landed Air Bourne. Cue up Bourne's music, then Booker and Bourne dropped to the mat. Booker's music then played and they did a double Spinarooni. Booker and Bourne hugged it out as Booker celebrated in the ring to conclude the segment. Lawler noted Swagger cost himself some money with the loss tonight. WWE hit a similar note on Superstars last week, but there still isn't a consistent approach to the storyline of wins and losses impacting finances.

WINNER: Booker via count-out at 3:15. The match was already defined-down as unimportant with no hype for Booker's in-ring return, then Swagger was defined down some more. At the end of the day, a "feel-good moment" for Booker and Bourne with no sense of whether there will be follow-up involving Booker. (*)

6 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA & ALEX RILEY vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH -- Steve Austin very special referee

The bell sounded when they returned live and the match started with Miz and Cena. They locked up, Riley tagged in, and Miz quickly scampered to his corner for a tag to Truth. Riley and Truth had a brief exchange, then Cena tagged in and Truth scampered to his corner to tag in Miz. More Cena and Miz. In the corner, Cena audibly told Miz, "bulldog," and Cena promptly executed a bulldog out of the opposite corner after calling the spot for the entire audience to hear. The heels then cut off Riley, Cole offered a canned line about the heels rolling, and the show went to break.

They returned from break 30 seconds before the top of the hour with Miz working on Riley. Miz continued to cut off Riley's comebacks and made a cover. Miz scored a nearfall that sounded like a three-and-a-half count because Austin smacked the mat on the way down that sounded like a one-count. Moments later, Miz got in Austin's face to continue their mini-feud book-ending the Tough Enough season dating back to their pre-Week 1 Raw confrontation. Miz and Truth continued to work on Riley before Riley escaped Truth and made the hot tag to Cena.

The arena exploded as Cena hit the ring and ran over Miz, who also tagged in. Cena with the usual routine, the Shuffle, and an Attitude Adjustment tease that Truth broke up. Cena then dumped Truth over the top rope before catching Miz with the STF center-ring. Austin got in close to see if Miz wanted to tap, but Miz grabbed the bottom rope. Suddenly, Truth entered the ring with a chair and Cena dropkicked it away. Cena and Miz then had a double knockdown center-ring.

Riley entered the ring with a briefcase in-hand and teased hitting Cena before popping Miz with the case. Austin ignored it, then took a page from Bret Hart as special referee two weeks ago dropping Miz with the Stunner. Cena followed up with the AA on Miz for the win.

Post-match: Cole complained about the officiating as Austin, Cena, and Riley shared beers in the ring. Suddenly, the Raw GM buzzed. Cole stepped to the podium and angrily read that the referee has blatantly over-stepped his authority in this match. Therefore, Cena and Riley have been DQ'ed. Apparently the GM went to sleep before the end of the main event two weeks ago.

WINNERS: Miz & Truth via DQ reverse decision at 10:44. There was hardly anything here hyping Cena vs. Truth on PPV in two weeks. Truth is being presented as as much of a threat to Cena's title as a blister. (*1/2)

Suddenly, the GM buzzed in again. Cole read that before Austin does something drastic he'll forget, the GM has appointed Austin as the special guest General Manager. Austin slipped out of the ring, grabbed a mic, trashed the laptop and podium, and polled the crowd on whether they want him to be the GM. Austin grabbed Cole by the lapel and proceeded to punch him in the face. Austin rolled Cole into the ring, called for some beers, and doused Cole center-ring. Cena watched in the background as Austin picked up Cole and dropped him with a Stunner. Austin's music played and Cena followed up with an Attitude Adjustment. Cue up Cena's music this time.

Austin and Cena then shared beers in the ring before Austin slipped out of the ring and grabbed the mic again. Cena's music stopped, Austin re-entered the ring, and asked the crowd if they're ready for Raw next week. Austin told Cole he'll see him next week on Raw because Stone Cold said so. Cue up Stone Cold's theme music. Austin grabbed some beers, tossed some beers to Cena, and Lawler signed off with a plug for Austin back on Raw next week for a three-hour show. They closed with a slow-motion shot of Cena and Austin sharing a beer.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 08 2011, 01:17 pm
WWE NXT Results: 6-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50614.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JTG vs. YOSHI TATSU

Regal said he liked JTG’s intensity, but still couldn’t understand what he was saying. Match was joined in progress, and JTG gave a knee-lift to Tatsu. Grisham helped out Regal when Regal was looking for a word to describe what JTG has been making, and Grisham told him “impact.” Then under his breath, he said that might not be the word they want to use there. JTG got a near-fall off of a high-impact move. Sunset flip by Tatsu was countered by JTG. High knee-drop for two by JTG. Grisham noted these are the only two Pros whose rookies have been eliminated. JTG worked the arm as the crowd got behind Tatsu. Tatsu dodged charge in the corner. Hard chops were delivered by Tatsu. Spinning heel kick, shades of Savio Vega! JTG avoided Tatsu’s big kick and applied a rear waistlock to ground Yoshi. JTG did some trash talking while holding his opponent down. Tatsu got to his feet, flipped out of a suplex, and kicked JTG in the head. The pin was academic.

WINNER: Tatsu, 5:30 shown. Okay mid-card match. Tatsu has some potential, but I think JTG’s still best served as a tag wrestler.

2 – DARREN YOUNG & CHAVO GUERRERO vs. CONOR O’BRIAN & VLADIMIR KOZLOV

Young and Kozlov started things off. They did some mat work early on. Kozlov backed Young into the corner and laid in a few shoulders. Tag to O’Brian, who worked Young’s arm. Young and Chavo did some heel double-teaming. Chavo flew over the top rope, but O’Brian was too close to the ring, and Chavo barely caught O’Brian with an arm to his back. Chavo rolled O’Brian into the ring and was about to make a cover when they went to break. Seriously?

Back at 5:49 of the tag match. Regal applauded the tag effort of Young and Chavo. O’Brian tried to break free, and finally did, making the tag to Kozlov at 6:45. Kozlov went to work on Young, and dropped him chest-first over the top rope. Kick to the chest, then a clothesline for Chavo. Young walked into a big boot, but Vlad made the mistake of going after Chavo again. Young took out the knee of his Russian foe. The heels worked the leg of Kozlov to keep him from getting to his feet. They cut off the ring as well. This is kind-of tough with a guy like Kozlov, who struggles to sell. O’Brian got the hot tag, and did some nondescript offense. The standard tag finish went into effect, and Young hit O’Brian with his finisher for the win.

WINNERS: Young and Chavo, at 12:10. Young and Chavo looked good as a tag team, but there were a couple of long heat segments on O’Brian and Kozlov.

3 – TITUS O’NEIL vs. LUCKY CANNON

Both Tyson Kidd and Maryse accompanied Cannon to the ring. Grisham read a Tweet from Maryse earlier in the day. She carried a purse that Cannon bought for her. O’Neil powered Cannon down off of a lock-up. The two men brawled in the middle of the ring in lieu of actually communicating and doing a move. Running boot to the seated Cannon by 29-take Titus. Cannon gained control and choked O’Neil in the ropes. Cover by Cannon for only two. He settled into a rear chinlock and the crowd was quick to get behind the big man. Grisham talked about O’Neil’s college football days at Florida. Knees to the face by Cannon, who then shoved Titus to the mat. Hornswoggle got the crowd into it, but Cannon again took O’Neil down for a two-count. More work on the neck. O’Neil came back, but ended up crashing to the floor when Cannon shoved him into the ropes, and O’Neil inexplicably fell through. Hornswoggle, on the opposite side of the ring, gave Maryse a velvet case and inside was a candy necklace. He grabbed her leg and she hit him with her purse. Cannon started yelling at Horny when Maryse’s purse exploded. I guess it’s a fake. Maryse was pissed and hit Cannon with her purse. Cannon turned around into O’Neils finisher for the win.

WINNER: O’Neil, at 5:18. Neither man looked smooth here.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 12 2011, 12:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50656.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. CHRIS MASTERS

The bell sounded and JTG just kind of sat in the corner still sporting his Yankees cap to get over his heel persona. Masters wanted a piece of JTG, who slowly disrobed to make Masters wait to lock up. Masters landed some early offense, then JTG backed into the corner to cut off Masters's momentum. More stalling from JTG eventually gave him an opening while Mathews continued to talk about Masters being one or two steps away from being a "huuuuuuge" player in WWE.

Masters mounted a comeback at 3:00 and went to the second rope for a leaping shoulder tackle. More power offense from Masters, but JTG cut him off in the corner and went back to work on Masters. JTG called for the mug shot, but Masters avoided and followed right up with the Masterlock grip. JTG had nowhere to go and the ref called for the bell on a submission victory for Masters.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 4:38. Your basic Superstars match promoting the idea that Masters is just a few steps away from being relevant. (*)

2 -- MARYSE & MELINA vs. GAIL KIM & EVE

Prior to the match, Stanford noted Gail Kim's victory over Melina last week on Superstars. Mathews added that all four have held women's title gold in WWE. Mathews then segued a discussion about the Divas being all-stars to a plug for the three-hour Raw this Monday on Raw. He said the Raw GM is taking the week off to give the reigns to Steve Austin. Vacation? In WWE? That's absurd crazy talk. Meanwhile, the heel Divas isolated Eve early in the match trying to secure an early victory.

Gail eventually picked up the hot tag at 3:00 and cleaned house on Melina. The action then broke down when Maryse got involved. Gail and Melina were left alone in the ring and they played off the finish to their match last week when Gail tried to counter Melina's finisher with Eat Defeat, but Melina avoided Eat Defeat and landed her leg-split drop. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Melina at 3:47. Formula Divas tag match. Melina picks up an even-steven victory over Gail this week to keep their mini-program going.

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Korpela noted Striker was out there last week as Kidd's agent. Striker said he is, but he instructed Kidd to try out all potential managers to find the right fit. Nice start to the match with some strong exchanges between Yoshi and Kidd. Meanwhile, Striker presented a heel argument that Kidd is better than Bret Hart. "Kidd is money," Striker said the slogan is. Meanwhile, Yoshi executed a combination knee strike to the gut and Northern Lights suplex for a nearfall. Kidd came back with an attack to the knees, knocking Yoshi to the floor. Yoshi sold a knee injury as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd continued to work over Yoshi, targeting the injured left knee. Striker suggested potential Smackdown matches of Kidd vs. Sin Cara or Kidd vs. Daniel Bryan as he advances up the ladder. Yoshi sold he was in jeopardy with the "injury," then he flung Kidd away to the floor to buy some time.

Back in the ring, Yoshi rolled out of a sunset flip attack with a desperation kick strike for a two count. Yoshi mounted some more offense, prompting Vickie to pick up her pacing ringside. Kidd scored some return offense, but Yoshi fired back with a signature roundhouse kick for a three count for the win. Post-match: Striker lamented his client's loss before a replay aired. They cut to ringside showing Vickie arguing with Kidd. Vickie shouted in Kidd's face that he needed to listen to his advice. They signed off with the discussion still ongoing ringside.

WINNER: Yoshi at 11:40. Another perfectly fine singles match between Kidd and Yoshi. The search for a manager continues for Kidd... (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 12 2011, 12:26 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50657.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only...thankfully!

1 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES & TARA vs. ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER

The match built to a face-to-zombie exchange between Mickie and Angelina to promote their Knockouts Title match at the PPV. The heels eventually isolated Mickie, who made a comeback. Madison Rayne then showed up ringside to distract her old friend, Tara, and her former foe, Mickie, which allowed Angelina to pick up a win. Winter told Angelina to break Mickie and Angelina added a final insult to injury ahead of their KO Title match on Sunday.

WINNERS: Angelina & Winter at 4:26. Basic continuation of the build-up for the PPV.

2 -- ALEX SHELLEY & TNA tag champion JAMES STORM (w/Robert Roode) vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/Rosita and Sarita)

The bell sounded and the match seemed to jump ahead in the match with Shelley and Storm trading tags working on Anarquia. Hernandez then crotched Shelley behind the ref's back and Magnus said that's an example of the tag champs not having continuity. He called them "two selfish pricks." Taz quipped back you can't say selfish on the air. MA began working over Shelley, then Hernandez randomly climbed up top and airballed a splash. Storm then hot-tagged into the match and back-dropped Anarquia to the mat.

The action broke down moments later and Storm clotheslined Hernandez over the top rope. Shelley then went flying through Storm's legs with a suicide dive ringside. Storm then had a pin on Anarquia, but R&S distracted the referee. Storm responded by spewing beer in R&S's faces. Shelley then went for a superkick on Anarquia, but he ducked and Storm ate the kick. Anarquia made the pin for the win, drawing concern from Roode ringside. Afterward, Shelley tried to explain himself as Beer Money tried to act cool.

WINNERS: Mexican America at 4:29. A last-second desperation attempt to make it seem like the Tag Titles are in jeopardy against British Invasion, who haven't been on TV in weeks. Magnus was solid on commentary to assist in the endeavor.

3 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. BULLY RAY

The bell sounded and RVD went to the turnbuckles looking to pose for the crowd. Ray took advantage of RVD acting cocky and yanked him down to the mat. Ray blasted RVD with chops and hard slaps as Tenay plugged ODB vs. Sky still to come tonight.

Suddenly, A.J. Styles was shown standing in the Impact Zone watching the match. It took a while for the audience to recognize him. Ray didn't see him in the stands and continued to stalk RVD. Ray eventually spotted Styles in the stands and asked if he was trying to get in his head. Meanwhile, RVD was selling forever on the other side of the ring. Ray then scooped up RVD for a piledriver, but RVD back-dropped Ray and landed a springboard back kick. RVD quickly went up top and landed a Five-Star Frogsplash. RVD with the cover for the win. Tenay said he thinks Styles did get in Ray's head ahead of their match on Sunday.

WINNER: RVD at 3:25. RVD and Tough Enough Andy are in the running for worst babyface in wrestling right now. Fine set-up for Ray vs. Styles at the PPV, although they missed out on a video package or basic recap of why exactly Styles is so upset with Ray to hammer home that point.

4 -- ODB vs. VELVET SKY

ODB scored a nearfall five seconds into the match, then went to work on Velvet. ODB threw out "skanky b----" as she tried to choke out Velvet in the ring. Velvet mounted a comeback, but ODB ran her back-first into the ringpost on the floor. More vulgarity from ODB, then she got too cocky on offense, allowing Velvet to hit a DDT for the surprise win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky at 5:10. A double-dose of lewdness this week.

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING & TV champion ERIC YOUNG vs. MR. ANDERSON & GUNNER

Sting and Anderson were set to start things off, then Anderson did the old heel bit teasing a lock-up before tagging out to Gunner. The heels eventually took advantage of the numbers game to corner Sting, which brought Anderson into the match to work over Sting. The heels worked over Sting for a bit before EY tagged in and came in hot. Young dropped a top-rope elbow on Gunner, but turned his back on Anderson. Young faked the green mist, causing Anderson to duck, then Young popped Anderson with a dropkick.

Young started celebrating too soon and Gunner bumped Young into Sting. It counted as a legal tag, bringing Sting into the ring to take Gunner's TKO-like finisher. Gunner with the pin on Sting for the win. Didn't Gunner get the memo the mission was to hurt Sting, not win a silly wrestling match? The announcers sold the decision as the biggest of Gunner's career. Sting, unhurt, got to his feet and shoved down Young, who was back to a comedian celebrating as if his team won. Tenay said they would have reactions next.

WINNERS: Anderson & Gunner at 4:56. Yes, Gunner pinned the World champ ahead of a TNA Title match on Sunday. Doing the math, Gunner should be the champ - Young pinned #1 contender Anderson last week, Gunner pinned World champ Sting this week, and Gunner is the only one without a loss?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 12 2011, 12:28 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50683.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE CORRE vs. THE USOS & EZEKIEL JACKSON

The announcers were shown on camera during Corre’s entrance, and Booker T. gave his thoughts on Christian’s new attitude. At Capitol Punishment, Jackson gets another shot at the IC Title when he faces Barrett. Mathews gave some background on the Usos, as I believe this is the first time they’ve teamed on Smackdown since being drafted from Raw. I think one of them may have lost in a squash match a few weeks ago. Jackson tossed Heath Slater around for a bit to start. Flying shoulder tackle by Jimmy Uso, as Slater backed himself into the corner to halt the onslaught. He tagged Justin Gabriel, who fell victim to an arm-drag. Jimmy danced, bringing back memories of his father Rikishi, before taking Gabriel down. Mathews called Gabriel “a self-proclaimed extremist.” But what does that mean? Jey missed a corner splash and Gabriel grabbed a headlock. Jey was sent out of the ring and Slater capitalized, slamming his head into the announce table. Josh talked about Corre finally being on the same page as they went to break at 3:21 of the match.

Back at 8:26. Yes, we missed more than five minutes of the middle part of the match. I had no idea how much of the matches you miss until I started timing these out. Side slam by Barrett for two on one of the Usos. More work on Jey by Slater. Off the ropes, neckbreaker by Slater, and that got him a two-count at 9:56. Frequent tags by the Corre. Jey kicked Barrett when he put his head down prematurely, and Jackson tagged in. Barrett scurried to his corner and tagged Gabriel to avoid Jackson. He then tried to walk out, but Slater stopped him and yelled at him. Barrett continued his walk anyway. Bodyslam for Slater, then a double superkick by the Usos. Jackson then focused on the legal man, Gabriel, with a few bodyslams, which Booker called “slam city,” channeling Taz. Torture Rack for Gabriel, who submitted.

WINNERS: Jackson and The Usos, at 11:39. Just continuing to tease the break-up of Corre. Strange to see the Usos in a meaningful match, not to mention on the winning side.

2 – TRENT BARRETA vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mathews said Orton just arrived at the arena. Great Khali came to the ring with Mahal. Barreta shoved Mahal to start, but Mahal was having none of that. High back body-drop by Mahal. “USA” chants by the fans. Barreta flipped out of a suplex and gave an enziguiri to Mahal. Running back elbow in the corner by the former Dudebuster. He went to the toop, but Khali climbed the steps to distract him and Mahal pulled him off the ropes by his hair. Full nelson slam by Mahal to go to 2-0 in his WWE career.

WINNER: Mahal, at 1:29. Mahal has been pretty impressive in his limited time in the ring the first two weeks.

3 – TAMINA vs. AJ

Tamina was already in the ring, and Rosa was with her. AJ came out to her new pop-ish theme music (which sounds like it could be sung by Miranda Cosgrove or Miley Cyrus), and Nattie seconded her. Back elbow by Tamina started the match. AJ’s offense didn’t get her far, and Tamina headbutted AJ. Slam by Tamina, then an arm-bar. Hair pull put AJ down as Booker was distracted by Rosa, who was standing in front of the announce table. AJ came back with a dropkick to the knee, then a running knee to the face. Tamina kicked out at two. Mathews talked about the team-building events that AJ, Nattie and Kaitlyn have been taking part in. Cross-body by AJ was caught by Tamina, who readied for her finisher, but AJ rolled her up out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: AJ, at 2:02. AJ has some Mickie James in her as far as her pluckiness. She can be a good underdog for the Divas division, and I think the fans will really get behind her.

4 – SIN CARA vs. TED DIBIASE

Rhodes and his baggers trailed behind DiBiase upon his entrance. The baggers handed out bags to the front row fans. Snap mare by Cara, then a springboard cross-body for two, thirty seconds in. Cara went flying again, taking DiBiase down with a wristlock. He seemed to botch a flip, but stayed on offense. DiBiase got his boot up in the corner and then kicked Cara again in the head. He set up for Dream Street but Cara countered. He went for a springboard move, but as he did, Rhodes pulled Cara’s leg out from under him, drawing the DQ.

WINNER: Cara, via disqualification, at 1:51. I like the DQ finish – Cara wasn’t going to lose to DiBiase, and Teddy can’t really afford another clean loss, especially now that he seems to be on the cusp of being relevant again.

5 – DANIEL BRYAN & SIN CARA vs. TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES

Match was joined in progress. Rhodes was hesitant in coming into the ring to face Bryan. Cara surprised Rhodes after a tag with a springboard dropkick. Rhodes tossed Cara shoulder-first into the ring post. DiBiase tagged in to work the arm and shoulder of Cara. Cara attempted to apply a submission hold, but DiBiase escaped and the heels continued the beat-down. Single-arm DDT by Rhodes for a near-fall. Some heel double-teaming by the former Legacy members. Top wrist-lock by Rhodes, continuing to ground Cara. Cara tried to escape through Rhodes’ legs to make the tag. Rhodes grabbed him, but an enziguiri put both men down. They both made tags and Bryan got the best of DiBiase. Running dropkick in the corner, but only a two-count. He went ot the top and fended off Rhodes. Cara dove through the ropes onto Cody, and DiBiase met Bryan on the top. Bryan sent him down, then jumped on him. DiBiase caught him, but Bryan kept the momentum and ended up hooking on the LeBell lock for the submission win.

WINNERS: Cara and Bryan, 6:27 shown. Fine tag match. The more action Cara gets, the better for him in his future.

6 – SHEAMUS vs. RANDY ORTON – NO-DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

Sheamus took the fight to Orton in the corner once the bell rang. Elbows to the back of the head of the champion, then a forearm to the chest. Thesz Press by Orton to turn things around. He threw Sheamus already out of the ring, and Sheamus was already sporting a nice big red spot on his back. He was whipped into the barricades, then clotheslined. Back heel trip by Orton back in the ring, followed up by a missed knee drop. Sheamus soaked in the jeers as he waited for Orton to get to his feet. He went for a diving shoulder tackle, but Orton dropkicked him to ringside. Orton was limping as he retrieved Sheamus and continued battering his foe into the barricades, then head-first into the steel steps. He tried to step on Sheamus’ head when it was on the steel steps, but Sheamus pulled Orton’s leg, sending Orton face-first into the steps. Sheamus tried to recover while Orton was down as they went to break under 4:20 into the contest.

Sheamus held Orton at bay in the ring just over 8:00 into the match as the show returned. Two-count registered at 8:45. Back to the rest-hold went Sheamus. The slingshot shoulderblock connected on the second try, and the Irishman got a two-count. Back suplex by Orton, and both men were down at the 11:00 mark. Orton slithjered into position for an RKO, but it was just a tease. After all, he didn’t hit all of his signature moves yet! The two men went toe-to-toe with rights in the middle of the ring. Orton got the best of it, but Sheamus countered the Orton DDT and back-dropped him to ringside. Orton was thrown into the ringsteps. Sheamus dropped the steps over the lower back of Orton. He shoved Orton back into the ring at 13:44. The steps were placed into the ring as well, but Orton caught Sheamus with his unique back-breaker (that brought Sheamus down across his injured lower back) for two. He didn’t even sell the back. Orton put the steps into position, but Sheamus pulled him head-first into the middle turnbuckle.

Sheamus tried to slam Orton onto the steps, but Orton instead gave Sheamus a released powerslam onto the steps. That looked dangerous. Orton took his time to make the cover, allowing Sheamus time to kick out at two. At 16:00, Sheamus fought back once again. Irish Curse back-breaker for two at 16:24. Sheamus went to ringside and pulled a Kendo stick from underneath the ring. He belted Orton a few times with it in the upper torso, then in the head. Only a two-count. Crowd chanted “Randy” to try to get him back into the match. “In this business, there are a lot of sick, sick individuals,” said Booker. How right he is. Sheamus ended up with his foot tied up between the middle and top rope. Orton spied the Kendo stick and smiled. He clobbered Sheamus with it over and over again. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton at 19:08. As he readied for the RKO, Christian came from out of nowhere and attempted the Killswitch. He couldn’t connect and escaped the ring to allow Sheamus to double axe-handle Orton in the face. Still only a two count. Christian stayed at ringside. Sheamus set up for the High Cross, but Otron countered. He dodged the Brogue Kick and nailed the RKO. Christian came in and knocked Orton out with the World Title. Sheamus crawled over and made the cover for the three-count.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 21:14.

Christian held the title over a fallen Orton as the logo popped up on the screen and the show closed out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2011, 01:19 pm
TNA Sacrifice PPV Results: 6-12-11 (next two posts...)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_50710.shtml)

1 -- TNA tag champion JAMES STORM & ALEX SHELLEY (w/tag champion Robert Roode) vs. BRITISH INVASION (DOUG WILLIAMS & BRUTUS MAGNUS) -- TNA Tag Title match

Roode admitted he's a little nervous about Storm and Shelley teaming together for only the second time, but he thinks they'll get it done. Storm and Shelley had good chemistry early on to create that story of working as a cohesive unit. Magnus then pulled Shelley to the floor, which led to the numbers game catching up to Shelley back in the ring. British Invasion slowed down the pace working over Shelley as Roode noted it sucks not being able to contribute or help his team in a competition. Nice work from Roode early on treating this match as a sporting event. Shelley eventually broke free and hot-tagged Storm, who came in strong on Williams. Magnus got some, too. Storm then back-dropped Magnus onto Williams before Shelley came flying through Storm's legs with a suicide dive on the floor.

Back in the ring, Storm brought Shelley in for a double suplex causing Magnus to thud onto Williams. Storm then pointed to Roode, who said he thinks he's needed. Roode stood up and did his end of the "Beer...Money" routine. All of that extracurricular activity allowed the British Invasion to recover. All four men were knocked down at this point. Storm wanted Eye of the Storm on Williams, but Williams slipped out. All four men became involved at this point. Storm eventually made a cover, but it was only good for a two count. Shelley and Storm suddenly had a miscommunication. Roode thought the belts were leaving, but Storm kicked out of a double-team maneuver to save the titles for now. Gun Money then regrouped and Shelley hit Sliced Bread #2 for Storm to score the pin for the win. Roode took a deep breath and said he might need a few of Storm's drinks after that close call. Afterward, Shelley and Storm celebrated with the tag titles.

WINNERS: Gun Money at 10:57 to retain the Tag Titles. Good start to the PPV presenting the match as a sporting event, although this match was missing Roode, who typically guides Beer Money's matches and creates a nice flow. This one was missing some flow in the second-half after a nice start. There just seemed to be something off with the sequence of moves leading to the finish. (**1/4)

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. SCOTT STEINER
 
The bell sounded and Steiner began talking trash to Morgan, who paced around the ring. Morgan eventually grabbed a headlock before running over Steiner. Morgan followed with a leaping smash as Steiner was draped across the top rope. On the floor, Morgan rammed Steiner back-first into the ring apron. Morgan called for a chokeslam, but Steiner grabbed the ref to be able to land a mule kick behind the ref's back. Steiner began working over Morgan after taking him off his feet and talked trash to the fans while executing his attack. Steiner then stood up Morgan in the corner and landed a series of chops before putting Morgan back on the mat.
 
Morgan made his comeback at 5:30 and landed a running clothesline, then a second. Morgan followed with a unique sit-out slam driving Steiner's head into the mat, but it was only good for a two count. Steiner then came back with a belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall, but Morgan fired back with a discus clothesline for a close two count of his own. Steiner cut off Morgan again and applied the Steiner Recliner, but Morgan slipped underneath and lifted Steiner up in the air in an impressive electric chair, but Steiner fluidly countered into a victory roll for a nearfall. Morgan and Steiner then blocked and countered trademark moves before Morgan boxed Steiner's ears and landed the Carbon Footprint for the pin and the win. Post-match: they cut to a shot of Morgan's wife ringside as Morgan celebrated the win. Morgan then shared a hug & kiss with his wife on the way out of the ring.
 
WINNER: Morgan at 9:20. Good finish after an okay middle part of the match. When you get two heavyweights in there, you'd like to see more stand-up fighting rather than a sequence of moves looking like mid-sized wrestlers. It will be interesting to see where they go from here with Morgan after a likely blow-off victory over Steiner. (**)

3 -- X Division champion ABYSS vs. KAZARIAN vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- three-way match for the X Division Title
 
Abyss toyed with the challengers early in the match, easily discarding them to the outside. Early on, the announcers sold this as a handicap match with the faux story of Kendrick and Kazarian fighting for the X Division. The challengers eventually turned the tables on Abyss and knocked him to the outside before double-teaming him back in the ring. Abyss then dropped Kendrick with a Black Hole Slam out of nowhere and Kazarian broke up a pin attempt. Abyss took control, though, and resumed toying with the challengers, who were positioned as very weak compared to the larger Abyss.
 
Kazarian spent a long time recovering on the outside, which allowed him to re-enter the ring with some energy to land some high-flying offense on Abyss. Kendrick capped off his attack with a Tornado DDT, but Abyss kicked out of a pin attempt. Abyss had enough and drove Kendrick into the mat with a super chokeslam, but Kazarian took down Abyss with a flying head scissors. For some reason, Kazarian and Kendrick tried to pin Abyss simultaneously, but Abyss shoved both men away.
 
Finally, Kendrick and Kazarian came to blows 10:30 into the match. With Abyss on the floor, they had a mid-ring exchange. Kazarian then played to the crowd and lost an opportunity to work on Kendrick, who recovered and landed a flying dropkick. Abyss yanked Kendrick to the floor, though, and re-entered the ring to pin Kazarian to retain the X Title.
 
WINNER: Abyss at 12:05 to retain the X Title. A slow-paced match mixing the wrong pieces together in the ring. The booking fell apart based on that faux "protect the X Division" storyline. Abyss became the sympathetic figure fighting two-on-one odds against two wrestlers who weren't even competing to win, but to "help each other" for the first 10:30 of the match. No one wants to root for so-called babyfaces who aren't even trying to win. The sooner they get away from this X Division storyline and re-focus on wrestlers competing against each other, the better. (*3/4)
 
4 -- SAMOA JOE vs. CRIMSON
 
Crimson took it to Joe early on before Joe came back with a Dragonscrew leg whip targeting the knee. The crowd tried a dueling chant, but the pro-Joe chants quickly won out despite Joe playing the default heel. Crimson then tried a comeback with some basic-looking right hands before Joe caught him in mid-air for a knee drop. Joe followed with a spinning toehold continuing to focus on Crimson's left knee. Crimson followed with a desperation t-bone suplex before easily recovering to his feet to execute a double-arm DDT for a two count.
 
Crimson appeared to be moving in slow-motion trying to follow up and Joe capitalized with a suplex. The announcers noted Crimson was "running on fumes" at this point 6:30 into the match. Joe then followed with a trademark powerbomb into a single-leg crab, which Crimson escaped by grabbing the bottom rope. Crimson recovered moments later and slapped Joe around before landing a desperation spear that put both men on the mat.
 
The two men recovered to their feet at an eight count and started trading blows. Crimson ducked Joe, who then opened him up to deliver a hard chop to the chest. Joe wanted the Musclebuster, but Crimson escaped. Joe followed with a sleeperhold attempt that Crimson escaped by ramming Joe into the corner. Joe tried to run out of the corner, but Crimson hit a sit-out slam and it was good for the win. Post-match: Crimson caught his breath as Joe conversed with the referee about his three count. After a replay, they came back to the ring showing Joe and Crimson face-to-face. Joe extended his hand and Crimson shook. Joe then pulled him back in and mouthed he'll get him next time.

WINNER: Crimson at 10:33. Okay at times having that stand-up fight Steiner and Morgan could have had, but Crimson seems to have regressed in the ring. Or, perhaps he wasn't prepared to wrestle more than a five-minute TV match with a big opponent like Joe. Overall, there were times when Crimson seemed to be having a recital or performance rather than selling a simulated fight. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2011, 01:20 pm
5 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES vs. ANGELINA LOVE (w/Winter) -- Knockouts Title match
 
Angelina dominated the action early on and Winter became involved two minutes into the match helping Angelina retain control. Mickie made a spirited comeback at 4:00 and Winter continued to get involved by helping Angelina or trying to hurt Mickie. Old man Hebner eventually got wind of Winter's involvement and reprimanded her. With Winter neutralized, Mickie tried a swinging DDT that wasn't executed smoothly, but was good for the win. Post-match: Winter and Angelina tried to choke the life out of Mickie out of frustration.
 
WINNER: Mickie at 8:00 to retain the Knockouts Title. This was like the X Division match with the champion having to work against a two-on-one situation throughout the match. (*1/2)

6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. BULLY RAY -- Last Man Standing match
 
The bell sounded and the two men came face-to-face for a staredown. Ray talked some trash, so Styles popped him with a blast to the face. Styles lit up Ray, then declared this is his house. Styles tried a clothesline over the top rope, but Ray blocked and landed a big shoulder block to deck Styles. Styles and Ray began trading blows and control in each corner of the ring to establish the physicality of the match-up. The action moved to the floor at 5:00 with Ray in control. Ray smashed Styles across the ring steps before standing on the steps to try to trap Styles underneath.
 
Ray continued the methodical attack by dragging Styles into the ring to inflict more punishment. Styles did the Dreamer routine telling Ray he wants another one. Ray landed another open-hand chop that floored Styles. Styles then recovered in the opposite corner and demanded Ray's best shot. Ray followed with a right hand that decked Styles, who sold by bending underneath his body. Styles finally found some offense as Tenay said it was like Styles was growing up before their eyes. Styles then took Ray up-top and landed ten punches, but Ray came back with a top-rope sit-out powerbomb that put both men on the mat.
 
The match then moved to the floor, where Ray pulled out a chain, but Styles turned the tables and Ray came up bleeding from the forehead. Back in the ring, Styles landed a sick springboard 450 splash on a blood-soaked Ray. Ray sold being out of it and made it to his feet just in time at a nine count. Styles then dumped Ray over the top rope and took out the cameraman in the process. At 15:00, Styles tried to follow up, but Ray back-dropped Styles on the floor.
 
The match then moved up the ramp and Ray tossed Styles onto the stage. Ray surveyed the floor below and teased another powerbomb off the stage, but Styles slipped out and landed a Pele kick. Styles then punted Ray in the chest and Ray dropped down about two feet to the landing on the floor. For his next trick, Styles built some momentum and ran off the stage with a flying forearm smash that just did reach Ray to knock him to the floor. Ray avoided a ten count, so Styles set up a table on the floor.
 
Styles softened up Ray with a chair shot across the back, placed Ray across the table, climbed up the stage, surveyed another running dive, but then changed his mind. Styles climbed onto one of the Ultimate X-like trusses on the stage and kept climbing up the truss. Styles then looked down and dropped a super-elbow drop through Ray and the table that popped the crowd. After a pause, Styles made it to his feet at six, but Ray used his free leg to kick Styles in the back, which sent Styles crashing through the base of the stage. The ref reached nine, Ray pulled himself up, and the ref declared ten with Styles still stuck in the base of the stage.
 
Post-match: Ray instantly fell back down at what would have been eleven to sell the effects. Some people in the crowd chanted, "Bulls---," as Ray sold and Styles was tended to. Taz noted Ray was the last man standing for about a second. Officials and referees continued to check on both men as the announcers continued to talk about the physicality of the match. Ray had a faraway look in his eyes as he was tended to before they cut backstage.
 
WINNER: Bully Ray at 20:18. Strong, intense match based on the TV feud meant to elevate Styles. The even-steven finish was fine, as Ray winning seems to indicate the feud will continue until Styles gets the final victory. (***1/2)

7 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. MR. ANDERSON -- TNA World Title match
 
The match didn't last very long in the ring, as Sting knocked Anderson out of the ring and took him over the guardrail to the people. Sting moved a fan wearing a Texans jersey out of the way before ramming Anderson into the base of the grandstands. Anderson then reversed a whip and sent Sting flying into the base. Sting absorbed the attack, then dragged Anderson up the steps of the grandstands into the crowd. Some poor tourists were getting more than they bargained for. Tenay noted the same talking point from Sting vs. RVD last month that the ref was giving them some leeway with the TNA Title on the line.
 
Sting took Anderson to the top of the Impact Zone, then back down the steps and over the guardrail. Anderson slowly rolled into the ring and Sting fired up the crowd before returning to the ring. Anderson caught Sting with a ringpost shot, though, to cut off Sting's momentum. And back to ringside they went. Back in the ring, Anderson eventually settled into a focused attack on Sting's left arm and shoulder to wear down the champ. Very slow pace as Anderson scored a few nearfalls here and there.
 
At 11:11, Sting teased a comeback trying to get some momentum. Sting then landed a knock-down right hand and did his trademark chest-pounding and howling to indicate he was refreshed. Sting landed a Scorpion Splash in the corner, then wanted the Scorpion Deathlock, but Eric Bischoff marched down to the ring. Sting scared him away, then missed with a Stinger Splash. Anderson followed with a rolling sentaun, but only scored a two count. Anderson and Sting traded nearfalls as the crowd sat quietly with Bischoff watching intently. Anderson then hit the Mic Check and scored a close two count that frustrated Anderson.

Anderson went up top looking for a sentaun, but Sting crotched him. Sting followed with a Stinger Splash into the Scorpion Death drop. Sting made a cover, but there was some confusion with Bischoff involved ringside and ref Jackson James kind of halting his count. Awkward attempt at a "controversial" non-finish. Next on the bizarre list was Anderson hitting a low-blow right in front of the referee. Anderson then dropped Sting with the Mic Check and scored a slow three count for the pin for the win. Anderson is the new champ. Taz said the finish was a bit wacky. They replayed the awkward non-finish and finish as the announcers asked for multiple angles of Bischoff tricking ref Jackson during the non-finish.
 
WINNER: Anderson at 15:52 to become new TNA World Hvt. champion. A highly anticlimactic finish that landed with a thud. It was your standard two-star performance from Anderson, who continues to fall short of proving WWE wrong. Meanwhile, Sting's title reign will be remembered for over-complicated booking, first-gear & slow-paced action, and so many awkward moments, teased finishes, and finishes. Perhaps most problematic is the lack of reaction for Anderson and even less reaction for the title change. This wasn't good. (*1/2)

8 -- KURT ANGLE vs. JEFF JARRETT -- #1 contender match to TNA World Title -- Angle's Olympic gold medal on the line
 
Borash handled formal ring intros for the main event. Early on, Angle stalked Jarrett, who played a cowardly heel, before Jarrett avoided a clothesline and back-dropped Angle to the floor. Jarrett capitalized by landing offense, backing away, landing offense, and backing away again to keep Angle on the defensive. Jarrett continued to frustrate Angle during the first ten minutes of the match as the crowd waited for something to get excited for.
 
Ref Brian Hebner was then bumped and he sold a knee injury, which the announcers referenced earlier in the show. Hebner sold he was shot in the knee and rolled to the outside as Jarrett landed a low blow, which meant nothing since Anderson landed a low blow right in front of the referee in the previous match and it was as legal as a suplex. Jarrett then grabbed a guitar from under the ring and cracked it over Angle's head. Jarrett called for a referee and ref Earl Hebner slowly made his way to the ring to get that cheap two count pop standard for Jeff Jarrett matches. Jarrett and Hebner argued, then Angle slowly got up behind Jarrett and rolled him up for a two count.
 
Angle advanced the match to the next chapter with successive German suplexes, but Jarrett kicked out of a pin attempt. Angle then took Jarrett up top and landed a leaping belly-to-belly suplex. Angle made a cover, but Jarrett did his classic shoulder roll to technically escape a three count. Jarrett followed with a top-rope Stroke for a close two count before applying the anklelock. Perhaps ref Brian Hebner really was shot in the knee, as he remained out of the picture. Angle eventually fought out of the anklelock before countering right into the anklelock. Jarrett fought the hold momentarily before tapping out with both hands center-ring. Angle wins and is the new #1 contender.
 
WINNER: Angle at 17:42 via submission to become #1 contender. Decent PPV main event with limited bag-of-tricks, but still enough to be eye-rolling, especially following the Sting-Anderson match. Overall, this was fine, but you wonder what TNA coul
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 14 2011, 02:50 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-13-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50735.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. KANE

Back live, the bell sounded to begin the match-up. Cole begrudgingly reminded viewers that Stone Cold booked this match, which started with Kane on the offensive. Del Rio then grabbed Kane's left arm for a snap single-arm DDT to begin targeting the shoulder. Del Rio eventually applied the cross-arm breaker, but Kane reached the bottom rope for a break. Del Rio maintained the hold and was DQ'ed on a five count.

Post-match: Del Rio continued to maintain the hold before Big Show's music hit. Big Show came running to the ring in street clothes and tackled Del Rio to a reaction. Suddenly, Ricardo entered the ring and Show landed haymakers using a big yellow glove. Del Rio ran away in the process and Show continued to blast away on Ricardo, who took a beating as Del Rio's surrogate. Kane eventually had to put Show in a sleeper to get him to back off. Kane told Show he'll never get his hands on Del Rio if he kills Ricardo. Austin then walked out and said Del Rio is running to the parking lot and he better keep on running to D.C. because he's facing Big Show this Sunday at Capitol Punishment. Big Show celebrated while Cole declared that's not fair. Show and Kane eventually left the ring as Ricardo sold being unconscious in the ring.

WINNER: Kane via DQ at 2:49. Basic deal to set up a visibly healthy Show getting his revenge on Del Rio at the PPV. Meanwhile, the booking of Del Rio continues to be hit & miss. He's just not positioned as a future Raw main event heel.

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN & SIN CARA & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. IC champion WADE BARRETT & TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES -- six-man tag match

The mood lighting remained to give Sin Cara a "homefield advantage." Cole noted Barrett is flying solo now and The Corre is done. Lawler backed up the heel, saying he thinks Barrett should have shown that wisdom a long time ago. Meanwhile, Barrett worked over Bryan and taunted his PPV opponent, Ezekiel Jackson. Bryan eventually broke free and tagged in Zeke, who cleaned house on Barrett. Jackson executed his succession of bodyslams on Barrett and tried firing up the crowd, but they remained quiet. The action broke down when Jackson teased the Torture Rack, then Jackson cleared the heels to the floor. Jackson proceeded to press-slam Bryan over the top rope to the floor onto Rhodes and DiBiase, who crashed to the floor. Back in the ring, Jackson ran over Barrett, then tagged in Sin Cara. Sin Cara nailed a springboard cross-body on Barrett and it was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Team Sin Cara at 3:46. Another inefficient use of TV time typical for Raw nowadays. Smackdown was defined down as a secondary brand, Barrett - a titleholder in WWE - continues to be defined down as a weak heel, Jackson is being pushed too hard well before he's ready, and the announcers continue to be distracted by everything going on around them, selling disinterest in the in-ring action, which sends a message to the home viewer that what's happening in the ring isn't important.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. SANTINO

They suddenly cut to the ring and the bell sounded for a randomly-inserted match. Lawler noted to the audience that some people might not be familiar with these two men. Sheamus is a two-time WWE champion. Again, it defines down the prestige of the WWE Title and a future star like Sheamus if the announcers take the tone that a former WWE champion, Sheamus, isn't a big enough deal where viewers should already know who he is. There was a loud "We want Ryder" chant in the crowd as Sheamus worked over Santino in the ring. Santino then warmed up The Cobra, Sheamus ducked, Sheamus went for the Brogue Kick and missed, and Santino followed with The Cobra. Sheamus's career was nearly over, but Sheamus emphatically kicked out, smashed Santino with the Brogue Kick, and slapped on a Texas Cloverleaf. Santino quickly tapped out, giving Sheamus a needed win.

WINNER: Sheamus via submission at 2:45. More hit & miss almost getting there with the squash match formula trying to get over Sheamus as a barbaric heel.

4 -- CHRISTIAN vs. REY MYSTERIO

Another example of Cole being a poor lead announcer since he's now defending Christian's side of the argument about being "screwed" out of the title since Christian is a heel after Cole spent weeks complaining about Christian crying about what happened. There's just no consistency or foundation to Cole's character, which means viewers can't trust Cole to sell them on the product. They cut to break 2:00 into the match when Christian knocked Rey to the outside.

Back live, Christian was working over Mysterio and aggressively focusing on Mysterio's neck. Suddenly, Christian reached a five-count working over Rey in the corner and the ref DQ'ed him. That was a very short two-segment match.

Post-match: Christian tried to inflict more damage on Rey, but Rey dropped him off the top rope. Punk then came running to ringside and Rey splashed him off the top rope. Nexus came to ringside to check on Punk as Rey avoided Christian, then fought off Nexus, then set up Christian for the 619. Mason Ryan grabbed Rey, though, and ragdolled him around the ringside area. Ryan then rolled Rey into the ring and Nexus walked off. Christian was left alone in the ring with Rey, who he dropped with a Killswitch. Christian did the belt-around-the-waist motion and left the ring as his music played.

WINNER: Rey via DQ at 5:30. WWE obviously needs heel depth on Smackdown for TV and house shows, but they had a refreshingly original (for WWE) story of Christian being a heel because he's frustrated with Orton and not being World Hvt. champion, and now he's a regular old heel based on that post-match attack on Rey, who he doesn't have an issue with.

5 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & JACK SWAGGER

Swagger and Dolph worked over Kofi early on, then Swagger went for a Vader Bomb, but Kofi got his feet up to block. Bourne hot-tagged into the match and cleaned house before scoring a close nearfall on Swagger. Swagger tried to come back with an anklelock, but Bourne escaped. The action broke down and Kofi dropped Swagger with Trouble in Paradise from the ring apron. Bourne followed up with Air Bourne from the top rope on Swagger for the pin and the win. Cole noted Bourne embarrassed Swagger again. Booker said TV does not do Air Bourne justice and viewers need to see it live. Cue up a slow-motion replay of Bourne's finisher as Booker said Bourne is back with a vengeance. Back in the ring, Kofi was fired up with the win as he celebrated with Bourne.

WINNERS: Bourne & Kingston at 2:56. Basic house show match getting to the only thing anyone cared about: Air Bourne. Overall, another too-short match that the audience sat on their hands for since it wasn't important enough to announce ahead of time - sending the message it's filler - and featuring two castrated heels. These characters just can't get out of the quicksand based on the booking - no heat on the heels and the babyfaces have nothing to overcome. They're all just stuck at the same level.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 14 2011, 02:50 pm
6 -- RODDY PIPER vs. THE MIZ -- Alex Riley special referee -- $5,000 match

Back live, Cole said this match could previously only be seen in the All-Stars video game. So, the impetus for booking this match was to promote a video game. After showing some video game clips, they cut to the ring where Riley called for the bell. Miz rolled up his sleeves and landed right hand blows, but Piper jabbed Miz in the eyes and slapped on a sleeper. Miz escaped and pounded on Piper in the corner, causing Riley to fling him across the ring. Suddenly, Miz popped Riley and Riley responded with a right hand blow. Piper then rolled up Miz from behind, Riley fast-counted, and Piper scored the pin for the win. Post-match: Miz freaked out, then Riley tossed Miz over the top rope to the floor. Miz continued to freak out ringside as Riley raised Piper's hand in victory. They did a final hard sell for Miz vs. Riley at the PPV on Sunday with back-and-forth camera shots.

WINNER: Piper at 1:07. Big, big endorsement for Riley on this show tonight.

7 -- DIVAS champion BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA & MARYSE & MELINA & TAMINA & ROSA MENDES & ALICIA FOX vs. KELLY KELLY & A.J. & NATALYA & KAITLYN & EVE & GAIL KIM & BETH PHOENIX

By the time it was established which 14 Divas were in the match, the match broke down into a brawl before Kelly pinned Rosa for the win. Post-match: Eve took the mic and announced a Broadway number in honor of the Tony Awards last night. At the announce table, Cole was shown mock-gagging before leaning back in his chair selling death. Cole then fed to a video package on Tough Enough last week.

WINNERS: Team Kelly at 1:23.

8 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match

The deep-throated males quickly started a combination "C-M-Punk" and "Cena sucks" chants, which was met with a "Let's go Cena" chant from the kids and families. Booker equated it to a hot soccer crowd. "Soccer?" Cole replied, with McMahon obviously feeding a line based on not believing that's a relevant reference. The dueling chants grew louder in the opening minutes as Cena and Punk teased their finishers before backing away to neutral corners. After everyone paused, the match and dueling chants resumed. Punk then knocked Cena to the outside and they cut to break 2:45 into the match.

Back live, Cena was trying to make a comeback against Punk, who cut him off with an abdominal stretch. Cena then escaped and hip-tossed Punk, who recovered and knocked Cena to the floor. Punk then landed a big plancha on the outside, which was surprising for Cena to take considering he's physically banged up. Punk returned to the ring and did a Macho Man extended-arms pose from the top rope before dropping a double axehandle on Cena. Punk rolled Cena back into the ring and slapped on a gut wrench submission center-ring. The crowd resumed the dueling chants before Cena escaped and desperately applied an STF. Punk grabbed the bottom rope for a break, though, and quickly kicked Cena in the head to cut him off.

Punk resumed his attack as Cole quickly threw out a reference to Punk-Rey this Sunday at the PPV. At 10:00, Cena ducked a clothesline and tried a trademark shoulder tackle, but Punk ducked and Cena went flying to the floor. Punk quickly grabbed the ref and told him to start counting. Punk watched as Cena tried to collect himself ringside, then rolled back into the ring at an eight count.

Punk quickly attacked Cena with right foot stomps as Cole reset the show at the top of the hour. Punk went to the corner for a springboard move, but Cena ducked and Punk crashed to the mat. Punk tried to follow up with a clothesline, but Punk ducked and started his comeback routine. Suddenly, R-Truth's voice interrupted. Truth was shown walking through the crowd pointing out all of the little Jimmys in the crowd. Truth asked a kid in the crowd if he would trade him the hat for a sip of water. Cena saw what was going on and told the kid not to take the deal. In the background, Punk scooped up Cena and nailed the G2S center ring. Punk made the cover and the males exploded with cheers as Punk picked up the win.

WINNER: Punk at 13:58. An above-average Raw TV main event dominated by the crowd, which seemed to be waiting all night for something to invest in besides Stone Cold segments. Punk picking up the winning and Cole stressing Punk pinned the WWE champion could be foreshadowing for a post-Capitol Punishment program between Cena and Punk. The visual of Punk being his own man and not having irrelevant Nexus around him was a good development. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 16 2011, 10:07 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50769.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- DARREN YOUNG (w/Chavo Guerrero) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Regal sarcastically noted he's been watching JTG's "Straight Outta Brooklyn" over and over since last week. "Yoshi, Yoshi" chant as the Pro and former-NXT-member-turned-Rookie locked up and traded holds. Yoshi scored successive offense with hard chops in the corner, then landed a flying dropkick. Young rolled to the outside looking for a breather, but Yoshi rolled him right back onto the apron. Young delivered a neckbreaker on the apron, though, and both men rolled back into the ring. Suddenly, JTG made his way to the ring. They cut to break with Grisham wondering why he was out there.

Back from break, Young was working on Yoshi as Grisham welcomed JTG to the commentary position. JTG and Regal engaged in some banter as Young continued to wear down Yoshi. Regal then took a deep breath, selling exasperation with JTG. Regal said he would quite happily crack open JTG's skull to end his "insignificant career." JTG replied he is the flyest and greatest NXT Pro in the world. The match continued to languish in the ring before Yoshi finally made a comeback at 10:00. Yoshi then nailed a Shining Wizard and made a cover, but Young kicked out in time. Yoshi tried to follow up top, but Chavo distracted him. Young took advantage of the opening to yank Yoshi down from the top rope and pin him for the win.

Post-match: JTG hit the ring and blasted Yoshi to take out frustration from last week. The crowd booed JTG as Regal tried to talk up JTG as being very dangerous despite being a waste of space. Yoshi made a comeback, but Young blasted him. Conor and Kozlov then hit the ring to make the save for Yoshi. The heels retreated on the outside as Yoshi's music played. Meanwhile, Grisham wondered if that was Darren's final match with an elimination coming up tonight.

WINNER: Young at 11:02.

2 -- TITUS O'NEIL vs. LUCKY CANNON (w/Tyson Kidd)

Lucky taunted Titus, who responded by shoving him down to the mat. Titus then landed power offense, fighting for Hornswoggle's honor. Lucky then cheated to take advantage, giving him an opening to work over Titus. Meanwhile, Kidd taunted Titus to do it for Hornswoggle and the announcers played up a match story of Titus seemingly unfocused with his mind on Swoggle's health. Titus then found some offense and delivered a fallaway slam for a two count. Lucky tried to cut off Titus's momentum, but Titus nailed the sky-high bomb for the pin and the win. Kidd simply shook his head at the end result and the announcers talked up Titus being impressive pulling out a win despite having his mind elsewhere.

WINNER: O'Neil at 6:38. This wasn't Lucky's worst match on NXT.

Ringside: Striker and Maryse were with the four remaining Rookies. Maryse said this is - well - it's been a rough night. She solemnly noted one of them is going home tonight. Striker tried to hype the moment before cueing up the drumroll to find out who's going home. The random video game generator revealed...Lucky Cannon has been eliminated. Grisham sold immediate shock, as did Striker. Maryse was conflicted. Striker said that was a shocker, then asked Lucky for his thoughts.

Lucky said he's not going to go cry himself to sleep and declared this show to be a joke. He said he should be on Smackdown right now slapping the taste out of Randy Orton's mouth. Titus interrupted leading the crowd in Na Na Goodbye.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2011, 11:32 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50811.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. PRIMO

Ryder dominated early on as the crowd continued to react for Ryder. "Let's Go Ryder" chant after they came to a standstill. Primo then slapped Ryder around, drawing a series of clotheslines from Ryder. Ryder followed with a high back-body drop before clotheslining Primo over the top rope to the floor. Ryder followed with a plancha before playing to the crowd. Back in the ring, Primo cut off Ryder, but missed with a corner attack and Ryder assaulted the mid-section. Ryder was admonished by the ref in the corner, allowing Primo to ram him into the ringpost. Ryder fell to the floor and they cut to break.

Back from break, Primo was working over Ryder as the crowd continued to chant for Ryder. Very odd seeing Ryder working face and trying to mount a comeback here. Before Ryder made his comeback, they had a double knock-down center ring. Ryder was first to his feet and landed successive offense before he called for the end. Ryder dropped a leg, but Primo kicked out in time. Ryder followed with the Broski Boot in the corner and made a cover, but Primo kicked out again, drawing an exasperated sigh from the crowd. Primo then tried the backstabber, but Ryder held onto the ropes and hit the Rough Ryder. Pin and the win for Ryder, who received another strong reaction from the crowd. After a replay of the finish, they stayed with Ryder's post-match celebration for a bit before the announcers fed to a fake Obama press conference.

WINNER: Ryder at 9:13. Nice TV match. It came across like one-time heavy focus on Ryder, but it makes you wonder if his act could play elsewhere besides Long Island. He's likely back to the same lower-card heel after this, but it would be worth a shot giving him a chance to sink or swim in a higher-profile role. (**)

2 -- DREW MCINTYRE vs. KOZLOV

Josh Mathews noted Kozlov was born in Moscow, Russia, but he recently became an American citizen. Kozlov quickly tried to defend the honor of the U.S., but Mac cut him off and landed a swift kick strike. McIntyre followed with multiple strikes in the corner before wrapping Kozlov's shoulder around the ringpost. Mathews referenced Vince McMahon labeling McIntyre the chosen one oh so many moons ago as Mac continued to work on Kozlov. Kozlov never made a comeback, as Mac eventually hit the Future Shock DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: McIntyre at 3:53. Surprisingly decisive victory for McIntyre, who dominated for three-and-a-half minutes. He hasn't made it on Raw in weeks, but this was a good start for a potential reset. (*)

3 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. CHAVO GUERRERO

Korpela noted it's a virtual re-match from NXT two nights ago when Chavo's Rookie, Darren Young, defeated Yoshi (thanks to interference from Chavo). Basic exchange to start as Korpela recapped the origins of the Guerrero Family in pro wrestling. Korpela even slipped in a few "wrestling" references. After Chavo scored some close nearfalls, Yoshi landed successive offense before missing with a top rope move. Chavo then did an Eddie shake and set up for the Three Amigos suplexes, but Yoshi blocked #3. Yoshi then avoided a corner attack and nailed his lightning kick to the head. Chavo tipped over like a tree in the woods and Yoshi scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Yoshi at 4:13. Solid four-minute match with some good athleticism. (*1/2)

4 -- KANE vs. TYSON KIDD (w/JTG)

Kane quickly threw Kidd to the corner, prompting JTG to shout some instructions to Kidd. Korpela noted Del Rio took apart Kane's arm on Raw, which is something Kidd should exploit. Kidd found himself on the floor, but yanked Kane's injured shoulder across the top rope. Kidd tried to slow things down working on Kane's shoulder, which gave him some room to operate and cut off Kane's comebacks. Kane eventually built some momentum and nailed a top-rope clothesline. Kane then called for the chokeslam and delivered it center-ring. Kane with the pin as JTG could only look on.

Post-match: Kane watched as Kidd rolled out of the ring and the announcers noted JTG's managerial efforts proved futile. Kane had a good laugh watching JTG slowly walk behind Kidd after the loss. Korpela signed off with a final look at Kane in the ring.

WINNER: Kane at 4:21. A mild advancement of Kidd's managerial search storyline, but this was essentially a chance for Kane to pick up a decisive victory and make JTG's character look foolish outside of Tuesday nights on NXT. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2011, 11:32 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50815.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and the Angle/Jarrett street fight.

1 -- DEVON vs. HERNANDEZ (w/Rosita, Sarita, Anarquia)

Devon acknowledged his family at ringside as he walked past them. Devon took early advantage with a diving shoulder tackle and then a flying clothesline for a two count. Taz said Devon has lost about 25 pounds and looks to be in great condition. He does look better. The Pope walked out as Devon splashed Hernandez in the corner. Devon's sons shook hands with The Pope. Devon hated seeing that and called out to ask what they were doing. Hernandez schoolboyed Devon from behind for a near fall. Devon fired back with a Thesz Press and a mount with punches. The rest of Mexican America attacked Hernandez to prompt a DQ.

WINNER: Devon via DQ in 2:00.

-Afterward, at the prompting of Devon's sons, The Pope charged into the ring and made the save. The heels fled the ring. Devon then got in Pope's face and implored him to stay away from his kids, clearly thinking he's a bad influence. Pope just stood there and seemed to both accept and resent Devon's attitude toward him. The Pope didn't respect what Devon said. Once Devon returned to the back, Pope went right back to ringside to covert with his family, who still shook hands with him.

2 -- KID KASH vs. JIMMY RAVE vs. AUSTIN ARIES

Tenay talked about Kash wrestling TNA starting back in 2002. They showed clips. Those clips showed how far the TNA Impact Zone has gone in terms of the strategic layout of the stands and the overall lighting and production values. Rave came out doing his phony rock star persona. Tenay said Aries is a bit of a hybrid who was last in TNA from 2006-2008. Taz said he's a fan of his. Aries ticked off Rave and Kash in the opening seconds, so they turned to attack Aries and knock him out of the ring. Aries came back at 1:00 and took over on Rave. Aries really stood out here with flashy moves and then, even more impressively, flashy execution of basic moves. He did a spear dive through the ropes onto both Rave and Kash. Kash flip dove onto Aries and Rave at ringside a minute later. Aries broke up a pin attempt by Rave on Kash, then he gave Rave a brainbuster suplex for the win. Taz said it was like a videogame. What he meant to say is videogame action is based on what guys like this have been doing in the ring before there were videogames. Aries looked like a star out there, not just his moves, but how he carried himself.

WINNER: Aries in 5:00 to advance toward a TNA contract at Destination X.

3 -- SARITA & ROSITA vs. MISS TESSMACHER & VELVET SKY -- Knockout Tag Team Title Match

The ref kicked Hernandez and Anarquia to the back before the match. At 3:00 ODB walked through the crowd and distracted Sky. That helped Rosita get the pin on Tessmacher. Tessmacher was upset with Sky for turning her attention to ODB. She stormed out of the ring as Sky tried to explain herself.

WINNERS: Sarita & Rosita in 3:00.

-Afterward Jackie returned and joined ODB in attacking Sky. The bell rang frantically. Security ran in, but ODB and Jackie beat them up with low blows. I like the energy and variety of personality that ODB and Jackie bring to the Knockouts Division.

4 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. SAMOA JOE -- Bound for Glory Series

Straight up PPV style match, paced for going a longer distance than average for TV. RVD showboated at 7:00 and Joe recovered enough to one-arm slam RVD, then set him on the top rope. RVD punched his way free and hit a Five-Star for the win.

WINNER: RVD in 8:00.

STAR RATING: **1/2 -- Well on its way to being a true buzzworthy match. Eight minutes is a marathon these days for a non-main event TV match, but not really long enough to be more than a teaser of what these two could do if the setting was right and they had 15-25 minutes to really tell a story. The backstory provided for this was just the Bound for Glory Series; otherwise no promos or video packages or anything. Tenay called it a "dream match," although in TNA's world, there's nothing about it that makes it a dream match. In general, I like the idea of the Bound for Glory Series giving meaning to these matches since every win, and the type of win, counts in the standings. I hope TNA does a thorough job keeping fans up to date on all of the participants matches and really lets fans follow along legit tallying of the wins for each of the 12 participants.

5 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. GUNNER

This began 41 minutes into the second hour. Taz said Gunner is Immortal's Blue Chipper. It's still tough to tell whether we're supposed to be more inclined to root for Anderson or Gunner. There's not really a sympathetic, likable figure here, and that's a problem. Anderson doesn't look like a World Champion, so TNA needs to take steps to establish why fans are supposed to take him seriously out there as the top fighter in the company. He's kinda flabby, not that tall, not particularly physically intimidating in any way, and his offense is conventional enough that it doesn't really make up for those cosmetic shortcomings. In the context of TNA, he looks like a regular guy, so they really need to figure out what makes him the Best of the Best in TNA and accentuate that. In other words, give those who want to believe something to believe in. At 3:00 Anderson missed a top rope cannonball. Gunner landed an elbowdrop for a near fall. He scored another two count after a short-arm clothesline. Anderson rallied and scored a near fall and then mounted Gunner and threw a barrage of punches. Anderson then got cocky and asked for the mic to drop from the ceiling. He announced himself as the World Champion and bragged himself up. Gunner recovered during this time and surprised Anderson with his finisher for the win. "He did it again!" shouted Tenay. "The second week in a row he beat the World Heavyweight Champion." The crowd popped.

WINNER: Gunner in 8:00.

-Bischoff walked out applauding slowly and arrogantly. He raised Gunner's hand. Again, how are we supposed to feel about Gunner's success and Anderson's loss? It's like two sports teams I don't like just played a game. It doesn't really resonate much with a viewer without that person to root for. It's just passively interesting in the sense that you wonder how Anderson will react and you wonder if Gunner is really this good. Not really tapping emotions, though.

-Out at the parking lot, it was time for Jarrett vs. Angle. The locker room cleared out and surrounded them and cheered them on. Angle wrestled Jarrett to the pavement and applied a submission from behind early. Jarrett tried to punch himself free from underneath, but Angle drew blood and remained on top, again going for a chokeout when Jarrett gave him his back. Angle let Jarrett up, but then slammed him hard to the pavement. The wrestlers cheered them on like a prison fight was going on. Jarrett came back and shoved Angle head-first into the trunk of a car. Ray shoved Jarrett back toward Angle and told him to stay on him. Jarrett told Angle to go train for the Olympics and get the hell out of his life. Jarrett said he'll never leave TNA because he founded the company. As Jarrett began to walk away, Angle stood and said they're not done yet. Jarrett charged Angle, who lifted him and turned and slammed him onto the pavement. He then pounded away at his face and suplexed him onto the hood of a car. Angle then choked Jarrett from behind with a shirt. Angle told Jarrett to say "adios." Jarrett did. Angle dropped him and walked away. Jarrett, gasping to catch his breath, said, "Adios" again. Ray insisted, "He didn't say nothing. What are you guys talkin' about?" Pope laughed and said, "He said something'" It's really tough to pull off a street fight scene in pro wrestling. They did just about everything right here in terms of the lighting at night, the wrestlers surrounding the action and acting like prisoners cheering on a knife fight, and not doing anything too corny in the actual fight, most of which took place on the ground as most parking lot fights do. Is Jarrett really going to Mexico? That's a decent cliffhanger to end with. Angle carried himself like a star in this segment. Of course, viewers who ordered the PPV thinking they saw the Final Chapter might feel a little taken for a ride since this felt more like the real final chapter, and it was free.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 20 2011, 10:43 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_50860.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SIN CARA & DANIEL BRYAN & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. WADE BARRETT & TED DIBIASE & CODY RHODES

Cody’s bag men were a little more casually dressed this week. Big beal out of the corner on DiBiase by Jackson. Cara tagged in, and he may be thrown off by the lack of his special lighting used during this match. Cara sent DiBiase to the outside, where he attempted to re-group. They went to break 1:00 in.

Back at 5:15 of the match, with DiBiase in control of Cara. Rhodes quickly tagged in and did some damage as well. Cara fired back with kicks and completed a springboard take-down. However, Rhodes connected on a springboard of his own, the springboard kick, and that registered a near-fall. Barrett tagged in and suplexed Cara. Frequent tags by the heels. Cara dodged a pump-handle slam, but Barrett came back with it anyway. It was a mistake, as Cara turned it into a spinning DDT at 8:47. Both men needed to make tags. Bryan and DiBiase came in and Bryan did his running kick on DiBiase in the corner, among other things. That was enough to pick up the unexpected win though, as it looked like DiBiase was late in kicking out. Actually, upon replay, it looked like he barely kicked out in time, but referee Rod Zapata’s hand hit the mat anyway, so he called for the bell.

WINNERS: Bryan, Cara and Jackson, at 9:34. The other way you could tell it wasn’t the original finish: they didn’t do their trademark tag team finish were everyone gets involved at the end.

2 – VLADIMIR KOZLOV vs. JINDER MAHAL

Kozlov was already in the ring for this one. Khali was out with Mahal, as usual. Headlock take-over by Mahal. Mahal escaped a powerslam and took over on offense. Vertical suplex in the middle of the ring, followed by a jumping knee-drop. Side Russian leg-sweep by Mahal, then a neck vice. Kozlov quickly escaped and came back with kicks and a headbutt. Mahal rammed Kozlov’s shoulder into the ring post, then worked him over in the corner. As the ref admonished him, Khali connected with a chop to Kozlov’s head. Mahal lined up for his finisher, then hit the full-nelson slam for three.

WINNER: Mahal, at 2:49. Mahal is slowly working his way up the food chain.

3 – ALICIA FOX & ROSA MENDES & TAMINA vs. NATALYA & AJ & KAITLYN

Fox went right after Kaitlyn with kicks, but Kaitlyn fired back with forearms and a clothesline. Tag to Tamina, who tossed Kaitlyn off on a lock-up. Natalya tagged in and dropkicked Tamina in a move that barely staggered the heel. It wasn’t a good dropkick, anyway. Rosa distracted Natalya, allowing Tamina to take over. Nattie blocked a legdrop and applied a sharpshooter. Rosa broke it up and Kaitlyn took her out. AJ tagged in and punched Tamina, but AJ fell backward off of it. She tried a crucifix roll-up, but Tamina dropped her with a Samoan drop for the win.

WINNERS: Tamina, Mendes and Fox, at 1:47. I thought giving AJ the win last week would set up some momentum for the babyfaces, and they’d roll off a few more wins to continue to get over, but I guess not.

4 – THE USOS vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER

The Usos got half an entrance or so. They could really use a change in music if they’re truly babyfaces now. No more Corre music for Gabriel and Slater. They showed Barrett walking out on Corre last week to cause the break-up. Splash by Jimmy on Slater in the corner, and he did some dancing in between moves too. Slater crotched Jimmy on the middle rope and Gabriel tagged in, stomping him in the chest. Cole used the term “wrestling” while Slater and Gabriel double-teamed Jimmy. He tried to tag in, but Slater pulled Jimmy down by the hair. All of this writing “Jimmy” reminds me of “The Jimmy” episode of “Seinfeld.” Anyway, Slater came off the top and was slammed by Jimmy. Both men made tags at 2:30 of the match. Spinning forearm by Jey, who was really fired up. Running butt splash in the corner, shades of their father Rikishi. They set up for a double-team toss into a Samoan drop. Impressive. Pin was broken up by Slater. DDT by Jey on Gabriel. Jey splashed Gabriel off the top while Jimmy superkicked Slater. That got them the pinfall.

WINNERS: Usos, at 3:49. I have no idea what this means. You’d think they’d want to get Slater and Gabriel a win after breaking away from Corre, and instead, they lose to a team that have been virtual jobbers (or nonexistent) for the past several months. If they decide to get behind the Usos, fine with me, but I would’ve continued to build them up a little more before feeding Gabriel and Slater to them.

5 – CHRISTAN vs. SHEAMUS – IF SHEAMUS WINS, HE JOINS THE WORLD TITLE MATCH AT CAPITOL PUNISHMENT

After the participants were introduced, Randy Orton came out for his ringside seat. Short-arm clothesline led to the first pin attempt of the match, by Sheamus. Knee-lift got a two-count only 28 seconds in. Christian fled to ringside to avoid Sheamus, but he turned around and looked right into Orton’s eyes. Sheamus kicked him through the ropes and Christian went down. They went to break :55 in.

Back at 3:47 of the match, and Sheamus was still going strong. Christian tried a comeback, but fell victim to the Irish Curse back-breaker for a near-fall. The story of the match was Christian trying to survive. Christian tried to use the ropes for leverage on a pin attempt, but the referee saw it. Sheamus recovered while Christian argued with the ref. Tornado DDT by Christian for a near-fall. Christian set up for a Spear, but was taken down with an Irish hammer for two. Counter after counter between these two. Flip kick in the corner finally caught Sheamus. He went high-risk, but Sheamus met him on the top rope. Sheamus took his time staring at Orton, so Christian dropped out of the ring and dropped Sheamus face-first onto the ring post. Nice spot. Christian then picked up the pinfall win upon coming back into the ring.

WINNER: Christian, at 9:03.

After the match, Orton charged into the ring to give Christian a receipt for hitting him with the belt, but Christian fled quickly. Crowd chanted “RKO,” but Orton instead decided to punt Sheamus in the head. Interesting decision, as it presumably takes Sheamus off TV for a few weeks. They replayed the punt and things ended with Orton holding the title above his head and Christian looking on from the stage.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 20 2011, 01:11 pm
WWE Capitol Punishment PPV Results: 6-19-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_50889.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- U.S. Title match

The bell sounded and Booker resumed his recent anti-Kofi commentary, questioning his heart and determination. Cole noted Steve Austin, Harley Race, Ricky Steamboat, Roddy Piper, Bret Hart, and even Booker have previously held the U.S. Title. Kofi teased an early Trouble in Paradise, but Ziggler ducked and went on the attack. Cole said this is a big match because it means big dollars being champion. Cole slipped in a subtle "money in the bank" reference ahead of next month's PPV. Booker re-visited WWE's inconsistent approach to the kayfabe concept of titles = money, stressing the importance of the match for both men.

Ziggler maintained control of the match as the crowd tried rallying behind Kofi. WWE offered some different camera angles during this portion of the match. Kofi finally mounted some offense at 6:00, but Ziggler escaped the SOS, only to take an elbow to the face. Kofi then hit a double axehandle from the second rope for a nearfall. Kofi then warmed up the Boom Drop and connected. Kofi followed with a TIP tease, but Ziggler easily ducked. Kingston then ducked a follow-up clothesline and hit the SOS, but Ziggler surprised the crowd with a kick-out. Booker was even more surprised: "What the hell?!"

Champ and challenger reset the match, then exchanged some nice counters to take the energy level to the next level for the first time in the match. Kingston went up top trying to finish off Ziggler, but Ziggler crotched him. The two men battled up top before Kofi pancaked Ziggler and nailed a high cross-body from the top turnbuckle for another close nearfall. The announcers stressed Ziggler escaping everything Kofi could throw at him.

Kingston slowly tried to set up the SOS again, but Ziggler countered with a sleeper. Kingston escaped by ramming Ziggler into the ringpost, then missed with TIP. Vickie became involved moments later by raking Kingston's eyes from the outside behind the ref's back. Ziggler followed up with the sleeper and the crowd came to life buying into Kofi in jeopardy. Kingston then scraped the bottom rope, but the ref didn't call for a break, and Ziggler re-applied the sleeper. The bell then sounded out of nowhere since the referee wasn't visible on-camera, but there was no official ruling. Booker thought it was a DQ. Ref Armstrong then received the U.S. Title belt and handed it to Ziggler. New champ. And no one is quite sure why. Cole tried to recover, saying Kingston passed out in the sleeperhold, despite some controversy.

WINNER: Ziggler at 11:06 to capture the U.S. Title. Fair opening match. Not great, not bad. Out of nowhere, WWE refereeing has gone off the deep-end with weird finishes the past seven days. The final few minutes (prior to the odd finish) bumped this above a two-star effort. (**1/2)

2 -- THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY
 
Once the bell sounded, Miz bailed from the ring, but Riley chased him back into the ring to deliver right hand blows. The ref separated the two men, allowing Miz to boot Riley in the face to take control. Miz slowed things down to land repeated left-hand strikes as Cole continued to promote Miz. Booker said the ref might need to stop this match right now. Lawler told Booker he's selling him short. "He's dead, Jerry, he's dead," Booker declared as Riley opened his eyes. Booker implored Riley just to stay down. Miz taunted Riley, who tried some desperation strikes. The clear objective for the announcers was to talk up Miz as a big, bad fighter in an attempt to counter the view of Miz being soft, while setting up a strong comeback for Riley.
 
Riley eventually avoided a corner attack to buy some time and Cole said this might be Riley's only chance in the match. Riley then tackled Miz and landed big right hand strikes before ramming Miz head-first into the corner post. Riley followed with a spinebuster for a nearfall after Cole implored Miz to kick out. Miz tried to trick Riley after begging off, but Riley landed a boot to the head for a nearfall. The match moved to the floor and Cole stood up to cut a promo on Cole. The big heat was on Riley teasing a beating to Cole, who was dragged over the announce table. Miz recovered, though, and flung Riley into the ring.
 
Miz retrieved the briefcase, but the ref yanked it away. Riley then hit an elevated DDT and scored the pin for the win. Big reaction for the finish after the spot with Cole ringside. Booker sold surprise with Riley picking up the win as Cole pounded his fist into the ground to sell disgust with the outcome. After a replay of the finish, they showed Miz with that faraway look in his eyes selling disbelief that he lost to Riley.
 
WINNER: Riley at 10:12. Basic, easy-to-follow story of Miz being the schoolyard bully to his former best friend, Riley seemingly biting off more than he could chew, and then Riley making the comeback. The in-ring action was basic-level and they needed Cole to get a reaction, but it was fine for the second match on the card. (**)

3 -- BIG SHOW vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO
 
Show thwarted Del Rio's early attack, seemingly no-selling the knee work until Del Rio chopblocked him to begin targeting the left knee. Show suddenly came back with a chokeslam, but Show couldn't do anything since his "knee gave out." Del Rio rolled out of the ring to catch a breather in the process. Del Rio then went up top, but Show blocked with a chokeslam grip. Del Rio kicked him away, though, and went for the cross arm-breaker, but Show lifted Del Rio into the air for a reverse single-arm DDT. Show was the first man up and slowly stalked Del Rio, who dropkicked him in the knee. Del Rio followed with a "cross leg-breaker," trying to twist Show's leg/knee with a kneebar. Show cried out in pain, then reached the bottom rope after putting up a fight.
 
Del Rio reset in an opposite corner and stalked Show, who very slowly made his way to his feet. The ref asked Show if he could continue as Del Rio smirked on the other side of the ring. Show managed to pull himself up on a second try, but then fell on his stomach after lunging at Del Rio. The crowd didn't know how to receive this since it was something WWE never does. The ref then decided to call the match, giving Del Rio the win. Post-match: Show was helped away by medics as Del Rio celebrated in the ring.

WINNER: Del Rio with Show unable to continue at 4:57. Del Rio gained a little bit here, but not that much since he couldn't take advantage of Henry's pre-match attack to put away Show in a minute or two. As for the finish, it seems like WWE's new "promotional flavor of the week" is a more sports-like feel to matches with referees having more "discretion" and "making mistakes." It goes against decades of controlled booking and recently emphasizing the "entertainment aspect," which means the crowd has no idea how to receive it. (*)

4 -- Intercontinental champion WADE BARRETT vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON -- IC Title match
 
The bell sounded and another "U-S-A" chant started up. Still not strong, but better than during the pre-match promo. Cole said, with all due respect to the fans in D.C., Jackson is from South America. Booker said, I believe, that Jackson "looks American." Cole had a good laugh before the announcers resumed talking over themselves calling the match. An audible "We Want Ryder" chant started three minutes in as Barrett worked over Jackson. Barrett drew ref Charles Robinson's ire by not breaking in the corner with repeated strikes, then Jackson found an opening to build some momentum.
 
Suddenly, Barrett hit Wasteland and Cole sold the match being over, but Jackson kicked out. "U-S-A" chant attempt #3 followed. Then, Jackson started his bodyslam routine as Booker hyped Jackson's physique. Jackson then slapped on the Torture Rack and the ref called for the bell. There wasn't a connection between the ending & the result of Jackson winning the title, leading to a "huh, what happened?" reaction in the crowd before Jackson was awarded the IC Title.
 
WINNER: Jackson via submission at 6:41 to capture the IC Title. Basic, TV-quality match with Jackson picking up the expected title win. Barrett, as damaged goods, can presumably move on and try to re-establish himself somewhere on Smackdown. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 20 2011, 01:12 pm
5 -- C.M. PUNK vs. REY MYSTERIO
 
The bell sounded and Cole referenced Punk beating WWE champion John Cena on Raw, albeit with help from R-Truth. Cole and Lawler debated tattoos, prompting Lawler to ask about the "soft drink reference" on Punk's body. Cole quickly cut off that talk before Pepsi was given a plug. Basic feeling-out process to begin the match, then Rey teased an early 619 attempt, but Punk blocked, only to find himself on the floor. Rey tried a running sentaun, but Punk caught Rey in mid-air to toss him into the guardrail.
 
Back in the ring, Punk began wearing down Rey with matholds, including a body scissors as the announcers bickered. Punk cut off a comeback attempt and applied an abdominal stretch. It wasn't enough to put away Rey, who made a comeback with a flying headbutt from the top turnbuckle for a two count. Rey then climbed up top again looking for a moonsault, but Punk crotched Rey and climbed up top to deliver a back suplex for a two count. Of note, Punk was selling a right elbow injury at this point.
 
Punk missed with a corner attack and Rey followed with the 619, but Punk fell to the floor. As a result, Rey had to get Punk back in the ring to set up for his finisher, which gave Punk an opening to get his knees up to smash Rey in the mid-section. Punk tried a cover, but Rey kicked out. Punk began selling a knee injury before limping to his feet. Punk began waving it's over and called for the G2S, but Rey turned it into a snap huracanrana for a close two count. Punk suddenly landed a kick strike to the head for a two count that concluded the sequence.
 
The two men reset the action before Punk set up for the G2S again, but Rey arm-dragged Punk to the middle rope. Punk blocked the 619, though, and positioned Rey center-ring to deliver the G2S. Punk made the cover for the win. Booker, never one to shy away from hyperbole, declared it one of the best matches he's ever seen. Instead of talking about the agony of the defeat for babyface Rey, babyface Booker then talked up Punk's performance in the ring. It's part of the Announcing Epidemic where wins & losses aren't stressed, rather the "evaluation of a match" is focused on.
 
WINNER: Punk at 14:58. Teflon Rey takes another loss, which gives Punk two big wins in the past seven days against the #1 and #2 babyfaces on the Raw roster. The match wasn't one of their better efforts, but they did enough to have a stand-out match on a weak show thus far. (***)

6 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN -- World Hvt. Title match
 
Orton and Christian slowly walked toward each other and Christian slapped Orton, who responded by decking him. Christian gained control moments later as Booker offered worked talking point that it appeared Orton's footwork was off due to the concussion. Christian then missed with a plancha on the floor and Orton followed with right hand strikes. Booker said it appears Orton's balance is "still just a little bit off." Christian then countered a move near the ring steps and rammed Orton head-first into the steps, targeting the "concussion area."
 
Back in the ring, Christian wore down Orton as a mild "R-K-O" chant started up in the crowd. Christian then got the vocal males on his side as Orton "sold the effects" of the concussion with a faraway look in his eyes. Christian then walked into a high back-drop out of nowhere to give Orton an opening. Orton followed with right arm strikes to the upper chest over and over and over again. The crowd didn't even react to that, which would normally draw an escalating reaction. (Is the crowd just waiting for the Nationals, members of Congress, the National Guard, the Capitals, and the real Obama, as advertised?)
 
Orton followed with a snap powerslam and belly-to-belly suplex, but Christian kicked out. Booker and Orton then exchanged bombs from their knees before Orton lifted up Christian for an innovative slam straight into the mat from his shoulders. It was only good for a two count, then Orton teased the RKO and Christian bailed to the floor. Back in the ring, Christian found himself trapped in the horizontal DDT from the second rope. Orton got that look in his eyes, then dropped down to the mat teasing the RKO, but Christian slipped right into a reverse DDT for a two count. That drew a reaction.
 
Christian and Orton reset with Christian in the corner teasing the Spear. Orton did the splits to duck Christian, then flowed right into an RKO attempt, but Christian actually escaped and nailed the spear. Christian made the cover, but Orton kicked out. Lawler said Orton might have a concussion, but Christian might have a mental break down. Lawler then referenced Edge, noting he's watching this right now.
 
Christian and Orton reset again, then Orton nailed the RKO. Christian was near the ropes, though, and Orton made a cover with Christian's foot underneath the bottom rope "breaking the plane" of the ropes. The ref counted three for the win. The announcers didn't mention the obvious rope-break as Orton began posing in the ring. Christian then grabbed the referee and pointed out to him that his foot was underneath the ropes. Lawler sold that he wasn't aware of Christian's complaint. Booker told him not to do this.

Suddenly, Orton snuck up behind Christian, who turned around and took a belt shot to the head. They went to a replay of the finish and showed a few different angles of Christian having his foot under the rope. Booker called it a judgment call. Cole started screaming that Christian's foot was under the ropes. Booker said it doesn't matter. What an argument. They went to another replay and Booker blamed the camera angle. This was followed by a replay of Orton popping Christian with the belt.
 
WINNER: Orton at 14:03 to retain the World Hvt. Title. A notch or two below last month's four-star effort, but this was the best match of the show thus far. It will be interesting to see if WWE keeps Christian in the World Title chase based on the rope-break or if they shift elsewhere. (***1/4)

7 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER
 
After the bell sounded, Lawler tried to engage Cole in some Father's Day-related banter that turned into Cole plugging the list of countries watching the PPV internationally. In the ring, Bourne landed an elevated dropkick before taking a gutbuster. Suddenly, they cut to the heel Bellas sitting ringside cheering on babyface Evan. Huh? Swagger continued to slow down the pace as the announcers tried some airplane jokes about Bourne being grounded. It was so quiet in the crowd that the ref could be heard without being mic'ed. Booker went back to his tried-and-true thought of the night that the ref was considering stopping the match, but Bourne came back with a head scissors.
 
Bourne got his knees up to block a Vader Bomb and followed with a variety of kick strikes. Bourne then ran into a big boot to the face for a nearfall. Bourne came back with a big DDT, drawing more hyperbole from Booker that it might have been the biggest DDT he's ever seen. Bourne followed with a kick strike before climbing up top. Bourne wanted Air Bourne, but Swagger avoided and slapped on the anklelock. Bourne countered into a victory roll, though, and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Bourne at 7:17. Tough crowd tonight and this match never had a chance. Bourne got a decent win in the semi-main event slot, but Swagger has so little credibility that it doesn't mean anything at the end of the day. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 20 2011, 01:13 pm
8 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. R-TRUTH -- WWE Title match
 
The bell sounded and the announcers debated the merits of Truth's conspiracy claim having never received a title shot in WWE. Again, with the Announcer Epidemic in pro wrestling, they stopped short of stressing how a wrestler earns/obtains/qualifies for/achieves a position to legitimately receive a title shot. Since Truth has been positioned as a wrestler who loses more than he wins, he shouldn't qualify for a title shot, which would be the lead announcer's position as the "voice of reason" opposed to Truth, who heelishly worked his way into the title match despite a weak resume. Since WWE doesn't have a credible lead announcer and since WWE (and TNA) haven't established a foundation for matches mattering, that important aspect to build a story is completely lost. As for the match, Truth dominated early on as the crowd engaged in a variety of chants, including "Let's Go Cena," "Little Jimmy," and "Cena sucks."
 
At 9:00, Truth applied a chinlock that he turned into a body scissors. Lawler said it appears Cena didn't take Truth seriously coming into the match. The crowd re-engaged in a dueling chant before Cena escaped the body scissors, only to take a clothesline for a two count. Cena finally found some offense with multiple shoulder blocks before setting up the Five Knuckle Shuffle, which he delivered. Truth robotically popped to his feet, but blocked the Attitude Adjustment with a high-impact move. Cena could be audibly heard calling a spot while covering his mouth. Truth then missed a corner attack and Cena put him in the STF. Truth scored a rope break, though, and followed with an axe kick, but Cena kicked out.
 
At 13:00, Truth climbed up top and looked down at Cena for a while. It gave Cena an opening to catch Truth off the top rope, roll through, and hoist him into the air for an AA tease, but Truth escaped and hit Paydirt. Truth made a cover, but Cena kicked out and rolled out of the ring. On the floor, Truth became preoccupied with a Little Jimmy ringside. Truth grabbed the kid's cap and WWE cup to take a drink. Suddenly, the kid splashed the drink in Truth's face, which drew laughs from the announcers. Truth sold the steel water shot to the face and Cena quickly rolled him into the ring. Cena nailed the AA and scored the pin for the win.
 
Post-match: Cole heelishly tried the "rules of wrestling" argument that Truth was screwed because if this were baseball, the game would have been stopped after the kid splashed Truth in the face. Again, because WWE is so inconsistent and there isn't a foundation, it's just empty talk. Cena then celebrated in the ring with the kid as Lawler talked it up as a big moment for Cena fans. They went to a replay of the splash-in-the-face before showing Cena celebrate with military servicemen ringside. Cena saluted, Cole signed off, and they ended the PPV at 10:51 p.m. EST.
 
WINNER: Cena at 14:45 to retain the WWE Title. Completely forgettable PPV main event. They delivered a payoff for Cena Fans with "one of their own" giving the heel his comeuppance, which was about the only thing this had going for it. Blah ending to a blah PPV. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 21 2011, 01:38 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-20-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50915.shtml) Condensed more or less to in-ring results...

1 -- Divas champion BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match

Brie took control early on, per the formula. Kelly made her comeback, then reversed a victory roll for a pin and the win. Post-match: Cole blamed The People while the Bellas argued with each other ringside. As Kelly celebrated, Lawler stepped into the ring for an interview. Kelly sold tears and thanked everyone for voting for her and giving her a chance to win her first Divas Title. Cole couldn't stomach it.

WINNER: Kelly at 3:01 to capture the Divas Title. That was an expected title change and the post-match interview was a nice touch following last night's PPV. If WWE turns Beth heel, they could give the division some life via a Kelly vs. Beth feud.

2 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. MASON RYAN

Bourne tried to bob & weave to avoid Ryan, who dominated. On cue, the crowd loudly chanted, "Ba-tista." Bourne made a comeback with successive dropkicks before Ryan scored a knock-down clothesline. Cole said the WWE Universe apparently doesn't like Bourne since they wanted to see Bourne get destroyed by Ryan. Lawler said it's perhaps they like a good David vs. Goliath story. Cole said it could be they like a good car crash. Bourne then made another comeback and teased the Air Bourne, but Ryan avoided. Bourne tried an awkward small package and Ryan awkwardly kicked out. They talked about going to the finish and Ryan delivered a uranage finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ryan at 4:02. That was all messed up. Ryan looked awful (he's not close to being ready for a TV singles match lasting more than one minute and he's already damaged goods because WWE rushed into featuring him on TV without establishing him first via some squash matches a la Monty Brown in mid-2000s TNA). Also, Bourne was presented like a diminutive X Division wrestler unable to hang with a heavyweight.

Mark Henry took on Kane in an arm-wrestling match and Henry ended up throwing Kane through the announcers table.

3 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- U.S. Title match -- Two-out-of-three Falls match

Kingston took control of the match early on as Cole noted Ziggler joined an elite class of former U.S. champions last night at the PPV. Kingston scored an early nearfall with a back-slide, then tackled Ziggler to the mat. Kingston crashed to the floor attempting another tackle and they cut to break 2:30 into the match.

Back on Raw, Ziggler was working on Kingston. Cole said Raw is the "most unpredictable show on television" and the announcers recapped what happened during the break - Ziggler hit the Zig-Zag on the floor and scored a pinfall back in the ring. So, Ziggler went up 1-0 during the break. Back live, Kingston continued to take a beating from Ziggler. Ziggler then hit a Gunn-inspired Fameasser, but Kingston kicked out. Ziggler slammed his fists to the mat in frustration, then Kingston suddenly hit the SOS and picked up a pin at 7:40. Now, it's 1-1.

The third fall started with Kingston grappling Ziggler, who suddenly kicked Kingston in the gut and hit a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ziggler then went for his sleeperhold that looked more like a basic reverse chinlock. Kingston escaped, then catapulted Ziggler into the ringpost. Kingston tried to capitalize with chops, a leaping dropkick, and a standing double-foot stomp, but Ziggler kicked out of a pin attempt. Kingston then set up a leaping back splash as Vickie shouted at Dolph to get out of the way, but Kingston connected for another nearfall.

Ziggler, frustrated, slipped to the outside and retrieved the title belt. Kingston ducked a belt shot and caught Ziggler with Trouble in Paradise on the floor. Kingston then moved the dead weight into the ring, made a cover, and Ziggler touched the bottom rope with two fingers to force a rope break before the three count. Ziggler returned to the floor and grabbed a microphone to smash Kingston in the head when Kofi followed to the floor. That caused a DQ, giving Kingston the win, but Ziggler retained the title.

Post-match: Ziggler celebrated, still in possession of the U.S. Title belt. Ziggler then tried to inflict more punishment to Kofi, but Kofi dropped him with Trouble in Paradise in the ring. The announcers said it was too little, too late. They replayed high points of the match before returning to a live shot of Ziggler flopping around on the floor selling the effects, but still champion.

WINNER: Kingston via DQ; Ziggler retained the U.S. Title at 12:21. Not clear if they're moving away form Ziggler-Kingston (with Kingston cashing in his re-match) or continuing the feud due to the finish. Despite WWE presenting 1,001 match-ups between Kofi and Dolph on TV the last two years (including last night on PPV), this match still felt pretty fresh. Good action, drama, and nearfalls. (**1/2)

4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO vs. C.M. PUNK -- three-way #1 contender match -- Falls Count Anywhere

Some back-and-forth, mixed action early on before Punk slammed Del Rio to the floor with a sunset flip powerbomb. Punk could only score a two count after the ref scampered out of the ring to administer the count, though. Rey then delivered a running sentaun splash on Punk to score a nearfall of his own. They cut to break with all three men on the floor.

Back from break, the crowd was engaged in a dueling chant. Meanwhile, the match was back in the ring. The three competitors exchanged offense before Rey was knocked to the floor and Del Rio dropped Punk with a single-arm DDT for a nearfall. Rey then re-entered the ring and set up for a double 619, but Punk intercepted. After some more mixed action, they executed a three-man Tower of Doom spot in the corner that resulted in Del Rio having the advantage. Del Rio scored a nearfall on Rey, then a nearfall on Punk. More mixed action, then Del Rio ate the ringpost and fell to the floor. Rey tried a move on Del Rio, but Punk grabbed him from behind. Rey escaped, though, splashed Punk, rolled to his feet, and nailed a suicide dive through the ropes on Del Rio in a one-two combo.

Back in the ring, Rey hit a seated sentaun on Punk, but Punk escaped a pin attempt. Rey then airballed a splash when Punk casually moved out of the way. Punk tried a top-rope move, but Rey blocked, then missed with a huracanrana attempt. Del Rio followed right up with a cross arm-breaker on Rey, but Punk nailed a leg drop from the second rope to break it up. Del Rio suddenly smashed Punk with an enziguiri in the corner before turning his attention to Rey. Rey hit the 619, though, and went up top. Rey landed his finishing splash, but Punk quickly threw Rey out of the ring and pinned Del Rio for the ol' house show three-way match finish. Punk is the new #1 contender.

WINNER: Punk at 11:36 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. The three-way match is such a tired and over-done concept, but this was an excellent TV match. Del Rio hadn't looked this good in the ring in months. Rey and Punk were terrific, as usual. (***)

Post-match: Punk took the mic and plugged July 17 as the most historic day of his career and in the history of WWE. He vowed to defeat Cena for the WWE Title on that day. As for that honesty he was talking about. Punk said the brutal honesty he's known for is July 17 is the day his WWE contract expires. He said when the clock strikes midnight and Sunday bleeds into Monday, he's leaving. Punk said he is leaving with the WWE Title. Punk let that sink in as the crowd reacted with a mix of shock and horror.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 21 2011, 01:38 pm
5 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. CODY RHODES -- no count-out match

On cue, the match moved to the floor, where Bryan suplexed Rhodes on the entrance ramp. Bryan then landed multiple kick strikes and Rhodes went running down the ramp. Bryan flung him back into the ring, climbed up top, and landed a double foot dropkick. Rhodes then cut off Bryan and landed a step-up enziguiri for a two count. Cole and Lawler were in the middle of a dispute about "hundreds of millions" vs. "hundreds of thousands" when Bryan scored a quick pin on Rhodes.

Post-match: Cody tried a post-match attack, but Bryan tackled him and applied the LeBell Lock. Ted DiBiase made the save, though, and Rhodes gave Rhodes the Alabama Slam. Booker exclaimed, "Sidewalk slam!" He's been hanging around Cole too much. Cole actually corrected him on it. Bizarro-world tonight. Rhodes then dropped Bryan with Cross-Rhodes as Cole continued to rail on Lawler and Booker's credibility. Rhodes finished the segment by putting a paper bag over Bryan's head.

WINNER: Bryan at 2:25.

6 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA & World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON & ALEX RILEY vs. CHRISTIAN & R-TRUTH & THE MIZ -- Elimination six-man tag match

The match started with Cena and Miz mixing it up. Cena brought in Orton, who worked over Miz and mixed in some looks toward Christian. Miz eventually cut off Orton and tagged in Christian, who scored some offense on his Smackdown nemesis. Christian kept Orton away from the face corner and the heels continued to work over Orton. Christian then set up for Edge's Spear, but Orton countered with a powerslam. Orton finally made a hot tag, bringing in Riley, who cleaned house on Christian. Riley bumped Miz off the ring apron, but the heels stormed Riley. The faces made the save and Cena nearly bulldogged ref Robinson in the process. With the ref preoccupied with Cena, Miz dropped Riley with the Skullcrushing Finale. Christian then pinned Riley and the heels took a three-on-two advantage going to break.

*Riley eliminated by Miz at 7:10*

Back live, Miz scored a two count on Orton as the heels continued their match-long attack on Orton. Miz started doing some crazy dance/aerobics movements in the corner before going for a running attack on Orton, but Orton cut him off with a clothesline. Cena then hot-tagged into the match and delivered signature offense on Miz. Miz escaped the Attitude Adjustment, though, and landed the Reality Check for a two count. Miz tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Cena blocked. The action then broke down before order was restored with the heels back in control of the match.

The heels were still in control at the top of the hour. Truth mocked Cena, scored a nearfall, and complained to the ref about a conspiracy with his officiating. Cena slowly pulled himself up using Truth's pants, then Cena fired off a suplex to break Truth's control of the match. An awkward spot ensued when Cena had to milk a hot tag for what seemed like 15 minutes while waiting for the heels to cut him off. Truth eventually cut off Cena and Orton dropped off the ring apron to have a classic temper-tantrum moment. Miz then tagged into the match, but Cena scored a quick pin for the next elimination.

*Miz eliminated by Cena at 16:45*

Truth entered the ring and quickly took control of the match for the heels again. Christian entered next and went up top for a big move on Cena, but Cena moved out of the way. Orton then hot-tagged into the match and had some extra pep behind big clotheslines on Truth. Truth tried to fire back with a big clothesline, but Orton ducked and knocked down Truth. Orton followed with the spike DDT from the second rope before entering RKO mode. Christian cut him off, though, and Orton clotheslined Christian over the top rope. Back to center-ring, Truth missed with an axe kick and Orton landed the RKO for the pin.

*Truth eliminated by Orton at 19:23* Right after the pin, Christian speared Orton and pinned him for the next elimination. *Orton eliminated by Christian at 19:33* Christian shouted down at Orton that he's the World champion after scoring the pinfall. Cena tried to sneak up on Christian, but Christian fought him off, only to have Orton drop Christian with the RKO. Cena took advantage of Orton's tactics to slap on the STF. Christian tapped out, giving Team Cena the win.

Post-match: Orton re-entered the ring and accepted his World Title belt from Cena. WWE champ Cena and World champ Orton then celebrated together in the ring. After a replay of the finish, Cena was shown leaving the ring to celebrate with military personnel ringside. Cole signed off with a plug for next week's Raw from Las Vegas.

WINNERS: Team Cena at 19:58. Good main event. The "wrestler eliminated affecting the outcome of a match and the announcers failing to draw attention to it" element was an eye-roller, but everything else was good. It certainly looks like they're continuing Orton vs. Christian on Smackdown, but that remains to be seen. Regarding the WWE Title situation, WWE wanted to close this "Power to the People" show on a blue skies happy note, but it would have been effective to have C.M. Punk shown from a distance warning Cena about July 17. They have three more weeks for that, so at least WWE isn't in the fourth quarter throwing desperation heaves toward the endzone like they had to do with the Cena-Truth build-up to Capitol Punishment. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 23 2011, 01:04 pm
WWE NXT Results: 6-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_50951.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU & KOZLOV & CONOR O'BRIAN vs. CHAVO GUERRERO & JTG & DARREN YOUNG

Methodical start to the match with the teams feeling each other out and getting over their personalities. They built to Kozlov tagging in at 4:45 to smash Chavo with power offense. Young smashed Kozlov from the ring apron, then Kozlov dumped Chavo over the top rope. The faces cleared the heels from the ring, then the heels regrouped and they cut to break.

Back from break, Chavo and Kozlov were working out their issues in the ring. The heels isolated O'Brian as Grisham and Regal discussed whether he would survive next week's elimination. Conor tried to escape the heel corner, but Chavo cut him off with a low dropkick and the heels went back to work. Grisham equated Conor to a piñata because everyone was getting a swing at him. Conor finally broke free and the worst hot tag ever was executed to Yoshi. All that build-up and they still screwed up the hot tag.

Yoshi built his own momentum and cleaned house on the heels before smashing JTG with a Shining Wizard. The action broke down when Yoshi attempted a pin, then Yoshi and JTG found themselves alone in the ring once the dust settled. On cue, Yoshi delivered a KO kick to the head and made the cover for the win. Grisham tried to give Conor a complement on his performance in the match: absorbing punishment.

WINNER: Team Yoshi at 15:24.

2 -- ZACK RYDER vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle)

Regal said he doesn't get the whole fist-pumping and Long Island thing, but they have something in common: Ryder was trained by old tag partner, Dave Taylor. Titus took it to Ryder early on as the vocal males in the crowd chanted, "Let's go Ryder." Hornswoggle tried to talk them down as Ryder bailed from the ring to get a breather. Grisham plugged Ryder's YouTube show and Regal said, "Good for him getting himself over." Grisham said it's all about what happens between the ropes and Regal said he can back it up in the ring.

Back in the ring, Titus knocked down Ryder before Hornswoggle tried to take a bite out of Ryder's behind. The distraction allowed Titus to roll up Ryder from behind for a nearfall. Ryder had enough and bailed from the ring. "Are you serious?!" Ryder shouted as they cut to break.

Back on NXT, Titus booted Ryder in the gut before landing an uppercut. "Let's go Ryder" chant from the few fans interested in the proceedings. Ryder then cut off Titus and started taunting his former Rookie. Ryder maintained control with a double sledgehammer before applying a reverse chinlock. Horny tried to warm up the crowd and Titus teased a comeback, but Ryder booted Titus in the chest and followed with the Broski Boot for a nearfall.

Titus then mounted a comeback and landed a big flying clothesline. Titus followed with a fallaway slam before Ryder bailed from the ring. Ryder taunted Horny, gave him a fright, and then returned to the ring. Titus took some time to check on Horny, then found a boot from Ryder once he returned to the ring. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder and it was good for the win.

Post-match: Hornswoggle shook his head in disbelief as Regal suggested Hornswoggle distracted his Rookie. Horny continued to sell frustration with the outcome as Ryder celebrated in the ring. Ryder, satisfied with the win, left the ring as they went to a replay of the finish. After the replay, they showed Ryder celebrating while Titus sold frustration as Hornswoggle tried consoling him. Horny waved off Ryder's taunts from a distance and smiled for Titus, who continued to sell frustration as they called it a night.

WINNER: Ryder at 8:29. Interesting developments to close the show. Titus was not over as a face with the Hershey crowd in the opening segment or in the match, and WWE planted seeds for a potential heel turn on Hornswoggle, which would actually mean something for NXT after 15+ weeks of Horny and Titus hanging out as best buds. As for Ryder, he was solid in the ring leading the match with the inexperienced Titus. A strong conclusion to a typically forgettable NXT episode.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2011, 01:28 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 6-23-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_50989.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- KAITLYN & A.J. & NATALYA vs. ROSA MENDES & ALICIA FOX & TAMINA -- six-Divas tag match

The announcers played up this feud as the heels trying to bully the new Smackdown Divas, A.J. and Kaitlyn. Jack Korpela asked Matt Striker what advice he would give Kaitlyn starting her WWE career and Striker awkwardly said he wants to make little babies with Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn then made a rookie mistake and the heels isolated her in their corner. Korpela and Striker picked up a discussion on C.M. Punk vowing to take the WWE Title away from WWE (and John Cena), prompting Korpela to suggest WWE higher-ups could get involved to possibly prevent that from happening. A.J. eventually hot-tagged into the match and ducked an axe kick from Alicia before rolling up Alicia for a quick pin and the win. The bully heels were beside themselves as the face trio celebrated outside the ring.

WINNERS: Team A.J. at 5:21. Basic story keeping Smackdown's Divas division on "TV" this week.

2 -- MELINA vs. GAIL KIM

Mathews recapped storyline issues between the two former friends and Stanford relayed "information from Gail" that she's upset Melina left her hanging as a tag team. Melina took control of the action as Mathews vowed to get to the bottom of the split between Melina and Gail. Has anyone quizzed Daniel Bryan yet? Gail made a comeback at 3:30, then crucifix pinned Melina for a quick win over Melina. Post-match: Gail left the ring and told Melina she's crazy. "I was your friend!" Gail shouted at Melina.

WINNER: Kim at 3:59. Basic action and another chapter in the ongoing Thursday night feud between Melina and Gail.


3 -- WWE tag champions DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV -- non-title match

Mathews said a victory for Santino and Kozlov could put them in line for a future Tag Title shot as they attempt to regain the titles. Otunga ran over Santino with early shoulder blocks, then started talking trash. Santino answered with a shoulder block and Otunga backed away. Santino frightened Otunga with the Cobra moments later and Otunga bailed to the floor to regroup. Meanwhile, Kozlov humorously unfolded the Cobra in the corner as Santino sold it's difficult to unwind after cocking the Cobra.

The heels then brought in Mike to work against Santino. Mike and Santino exchanged holds before Kozlov tagged in to lock up with Mike. After Kozlov wore down Mike, he tagged in Santino for a battering ram to Mike's mid-section. Moments later, Santino found himself in the heel corner to take a beating. Otunga momentarily lost control and Santino small-packaged him for a nearfall. Kozlov then tagged in and overhead slammed Otunga, who rolled to the floor. Santino frightened Mike with the Cobra and the heels retreated on the outside heading to break.

Back to action, Santino found himself isolated in the heel corner after missing with a Sailor's Salute fist drop. A few minutes later, Santino knocked Mike to the outside and scampered to his corner to tag in Kozlov, who threw Mike around like a ragdoll. Kozlov landed a running powerslam for a nearfall. Otunga then entered the ring and the action broke down. Santino went flying over the top rope, then Kozlov ran over both heels. All three men sold on the mat as Santino pulled himself up to the corner asking for a tag. Kozlov obliged. Santino then took a kick to the back from Otunga behind the ref's back. Mike followed with a running neckbreaker on Santino and it was good for the win. To the back of the line for Santino & Kozlov. After a replay of the finish, the tag champs celebrated with the tag belts as Stanford signed off.

WINNERS: New Nexus at 9:53. A fine WWE tag team match. Mike & Otunga aren't exactly a credible duo, but if WWE wanted to establish the value of the Tag Titles, they could take one minute on Raw to replay the finish of this match showing the tag champions picking up a victory. That's low on the priority list, hence why this match was on Superstars rather than on a three-hour Raw, but if WWE hypothetically had challengers lined up for a feud against New Nexus they want to get behind, a replay of this outcome would help establish the tag champions to set up a program.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2011, 01:28 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-23-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_50992.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SCOTT STEINER vs. BULLY RAY – Bound For Glory Series Match

After some trash talk, there was a long lockup before Ray took over and hit a double sledge on Steiner and slapped him in the chest. As Ray charged him again, Steiner moved and kicked him in the gut repeatedly. Steiner threw Ray across the ring and Ray complained that he had tried to grab his chain.

Steiner went over after a pause and hit the Steinerliner on Ray before hitting his Pump Elbow, followed by some pushups. Ray was whipped into the corner at 2:30, but got a boot into Steiner’s gut. Ray went for three straight pin attempts but Steiner kicked them all out.

Ray then hit a bodyslam on Steiner before going for another three pin attempts for the second time. When Steiner got to his feet, Ray put him into a full nelson and it looked like he was going for the Bubba Bomb. However, he couldn’t get him off of the ground and Steiner hit a back suplex to counter out of the hold.

Both men were back on their feet at 4:00 and started trading big punches in the middle of the ring. Steiner won the exchange and hit two Steinerliners before hitting a T-Bone Suplex on Ray for a two count.

Steiner went to whip Ray out of the corner but threw him back into the turnbuckle. Unfortunately, the ref got in the way and down he went. Steiner hit another T-Bone Suplex and put Ray into the Steiner Recliner, where he tapped out.

However, the ref was still down and Steiner eventually let go of Ray to help him. When Steiner turned around, Ray bashed him in the face with his chain and covered him. The ref recovered just in time to count the pinfall for Bully Ray.

WINNER: BULLY RAY in 6:00 to earn 7 points in the Bound For Glory Series. Obviously, not the world’s most technical match, but it was decent action that told a very good story. Bully Ray’s cheating heel character continues to be a winner.

2 – MISS TESSMACHER & VELVET SKY vs. ODB & JACKIE

Tessmacher was being beaten up in the middle of the ring by Jackie. Jackie dragged her to the corner as ODB could be heard calling her plenty of trashy names. ODB tagged in and isolated Tessmacher further. Velvet ran over and fought with Jackie at ringside but it was counterproductive as Tessmacher hit a jawbreaker to get the chance to crawl to her corner. But by the time Velvet got back to make the tag, Tessmacher got dragged back to the middle. Tessmacher continued to be dominated by rapid tags from Jackie and ODB. Tessmacher was down and stunned when ODB tagged in. But suddenly, Tessmacher hit a charging spear to level ODB. Not long thereafter, Velvet got the hot tag.

Sky came out like a house of fire and clotheslined both women. But Jackie pulled her down by the ankle and another four Knockout brawl ensued. ODB dragged Tessmacher out as the mic caught her yelling, “God, you suck!” at Tessmacher. Pretty funny. ODB threw Tessmacher into the ringside barrier before climbing back into the ring and tackling Sky.

Outnumbered two on one, ODB ‘bumped’ Earl Hebner, which allowed Jackie to hit a big kick between Velvet Sky’s legs, which made Taz ask if that hurt for women. It was apparently painful enough as Jackie earned a pinfall victory

WINNERS: JACKIE & ODB in 3:30.

3 – BEER MONEY vs. CRIMSON & MATT MORGAN – Bound For Glory Series Match

Crimson and Roode went back and forth for the first couple of minutes. Good action in the early going before Rood sold a shoulder injury and Storm tagged himself in. Morgan and Storm continued the nice in-ring pace as Storm executed a nice float-over top rope guillotine on Morgan.

But, Morgan fought back and hit a big discus clothesline for a two count. This led to Storm being stuck in the ring for multiple tags by both Morgan and Crimson. Finally, Storm managed to hit another float-over, this time on Crimson, for a backstabber and made the hot tag to Roode.

Roode and Morgan battled back and forth before Roode put Morgan into the same Fujiwara armbar that injured Ric Flair. However, Crimson made the save to break up the submission. Storm re-entered and they hit a double team suplex on Crimson, which sent him to ringside. As they tried to do their “Beer! Money!” cheer, Roode sold more concern about his shoulder and Morgan clotheslined them both from behind.

But, the numbers were on Beer Money’s side and they quickly beat Morgan into the corner. Storm checked with Roode to see if he was able to do a move with him. Roode nodded yes, so Storm got a running start and elevated him over the top rope onto Crimson at ringside. Unfortunately for Roode, it looked like it hurt his shoulder again and by the time he turned around, Morgan was back up and hit the Carbon Footprint for the pin.

WINNER: MATT MORGAN in 6:30 to earn 7 Bound For Glory Series Points. Morgan is now alone in the lead of the BFG Series with 14 points.

4 – DAKOTA DARSOW vs. ZIMA ION vs. FREDERICO PALACIOS – Winner will wrestle for an Impact Wrestling Contract at Destination X

Lots of high-paced action in this one. Darsow dominated early while heeling on the crowd, but Palacios slowed him down with a dropkick in the corner. All three men took turns on offense before Darsow was kicked out to the arena floor. Palacios was whipped into the rope but ducked under Ion’s clothesline to directly transition into a Suicide Dive into Darsow. Nice spot.

With both men down on the floor, Ion climbed up on the turnbuckle and set up for a reverse move. He went for a corkscrew moonsault but ended up going dangerously short. Palacios noticeably jumped into the way to slow his fall.

In the ring, Darsow and Ion traded moves back and forth before Palacios managed to climb back in and knock Darsow down. Palacios dragged Ion to the top turnbuckle and looked to be going for a superplex, but Ion pushed him off the top turnbuckle from a standing position down onto the floor. Really cool camera angle from directly above showing the big bump.

Darsow immediately went after Zima but he pushed Darsow off the top and Darsow was inadvertently guillotined on the top rope. Ion climbed up on the turnbuckle and hit a beautiful 450 splash for the pinfall win.

WINNER: ZIMA ION in 4:45 to earn a spot at Destination X

5 – WINTER vs. Knockouts Champion MICKIE JAMES – Non-Title Street Fight

Winter threw James into a locker multiple times before dragging her to the interview area. Mickie was knocked down and Winter pulled her belt off and started whipping James with it. Those looked painful. Winter told Mickie that she would whip her all the way to the ring if she had to. Winter then wrapped the belt around Mickie’s neck and dragged her through an opening onto the Impact Zone stage.

Winter threw James across the stage with the belt around her neck, but James managed to slow her down before climbing up onto a lifted around and hitting a big Lou Thesz Press onto Winter on the stage. After some mounted punches, the two women rolled all the way down the stage to ringside. Brawling at ringside, Mickie climbed up onto the ringside barrier and hit a hurrancanrana on the floor. Really great-looking move. Mickie rolled Winter into the ring but ref Hebner was soon distracted and Angelina Love came into the ring and hit a Backstabber before rolling out. Winter then scrounged the pinfall win.

WINNER: WINTER in 4:00.

6 – STING vs. X Division Champion ABYSS -- non-title match

Sting was in control early on the significantly larger Abyss. Sting exploded out of the corner to level him before clotheslining Abyss over the top. Sting’s facial expressions are just great making his Joker character work. Sting charged Abyss at ringside but Abyss moved and Sting hit his shoulder on the ring post.

Abyss was now in control and he threw Sting into the ring. Abyss choked him and then threw Sting into the corner before charging into him from a dead sprint. Abyss put Sting in a chokehold but Sting forced his way out.

However, as Sting fought back, Abyss caught him in the goozle and hit the chokeslam for a two count. Sting tried getting back up but Abyss leveled him with a chop block. He then pulled out the Art of War, which apparently led him to pull a barbed wire wrapped glove onto his hand from a bag at ringside. Sting got up just as Abyss was putting it on and managed to avoid some punches.

Sting made a big comeback with numerous clotheslines before hitting a Stinger Splash in the corner. He then hit the Scorpion Death Drop for a two count. Sting then pulled the glove off of Abyss’ hand and leveled him in the face with it, causing the DQ.

WINNER: ABYSS via DQ in 5:00.

After the match, Sting punched a bloody Abyss in the face with the glove again. Mr. Anderson came down the ramp and Sting stared him down before hitting Abyss in the face with the barbed wire twice more before allowing him to fall limp on the mat. Anderson sold concern as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2011, 01:30 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_51019.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - SIN CARA vs. TED DIBIASE

Crowd chanted for Cara at the outset, but DiBiase worked the arm. Mathews asked Booker T to grade Cara since moving to Smackdown, and Booker gave him a B+. Cara took DiBiase out, then hit a cross-body off the top onto him outside the ring. Back in the ring, a cover got two. He tried a springboard cross-body, but DiBiase dropkicked him in mid-air. Cara worked out of a rest-hold but was put on DiBiase’s shoulders. Roll-up by Cara for two. DiBiase went back on offense, trying to keep Cara grounded. Slingshot clothesline by DiBiase for a near-fall at 3:06 of the match. We got about the third “Sin Cara” chant of the match at this point, so the Hershey fans were sweet on Cara (sorry, had to). Cara began his comeback at 3:40, which included a springboard hurricanrana. The announcers were too busy arguing to acknowledge much of it. Cara jumped into DiBiase, but Junior caught him and gave him a spinebuster. Booker brought up Mil Mascaras as one of the flyers that was around during “his day.” Cara hit his spinning finisher on DiBiase to pick up the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 5:08. That was the same finisher that most people thought was botched against Chavo Guerrero. Still not sure what exactly it is. Match was okay, as Cara got to hit his spots, and I don’t think a loss for DiBiase to Cara hurts him much.

2 – CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Couple arm-drags by Bryan, then a quick pin attempt for two. Rhodes took a break outside the ring just under a minute in, and DiBiase came down to give him some aid. The two men talked strategy as they went to break at 1:11.

Back at 4:27 of the match. Rhodes was in control, taking the fight to Bryan at ringside. Booker said he was calling Bryan “D. Bryan” to give him a little charisma. Rhodes worked the arm of Bryan, then gave him a side Russian leg-sweep. I must’ve missed Rhodes calling DiBiase’s loss to Cara embarrassing, which is why DiBiase is back out at ringside – to redeem himself in Cody’s eyes, at least, that’s what the announcers thought. As Rhodes gave Bryan a front suplex, Cole trashed the entire state of Pennsylvania for some reason. Cody stomped Bryan near the ropes, then again worked the arm. Cole and Mathews joked about Booker getting a bag from the bag-men. Running clothesline by Bryan at 8:05, and he laid in the kicks in the corner. Pele kick by Bryan, then a hurricanrana off the top for a near-fall. I like the new additions to his arsenal. More kicks by D. Bryan, then a roll- up for two. Another attempt but Rhodes sat down and got a near-fall. The two men collided in mid-air as they both went for a cross-body.

Back to a vertical base, they traded right hands. DiBiase tried to trip up Bryan, but he dove through the ropes onto him. Bryan got caught with a springboard kick as he tried to come back into the ring. His leg was hung up on the middle rope and Rhodes took advantage. Cole and Booker talked about the “winnner’s purse” and how you get paid more if you win. That is never emphasized in storylines and kind-of came out of left field here. If that’s the story they’re going with, they need to mention it more often when screwjobs happen or DQs occur. Another springboard kick by Rhodes once Bryan got free, then the Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 11:27. About the match you’d expect between these two. Even-steven booking again though, after Bryan won on Monday.

3 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. WADE BARRETT – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Neck-breaker by Barrett for only two. Less than a minute in and Jackson was getting some offense. Cole relayed the message that we’d hear from Randy Orton at the conclusion of this match. Jackson elbowed out of a side headlock, but Barrett gave Jackson a side slam, chastising Booker for calling it a sidewalk slam on Monday. Barrett was getting annoyed at the near-falls he was registering. A missed punch by Barrett and Jackson floored Barrett with a Rock Bottom. Booker said Barrett got “basted” by that move. As in, you “baste” a turkey. Big clothesline in the corner, but Barrett rolled to ringside. Jackson ran after him, only to get booted down by Barrett. Barrett lined Jackson up for the finish, but Jackson countered out of the Wasteland and put Barrett in the Torture Rack. Barrett submitted.

WINNER: Jackson, via submission, at 4:33. Barrett’s stock has really dropped, losing two televised matches in one week to the still-green Jackson.

4 – THE USOS vs. HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL

Another new theme for Slater and Gabriel. Northern Lights Suplex by Jey for two. He went to the top after fighting off Slate,r but Gabriel knocked him to ringside. Slater then tagged in and dove onto Jey. Back in the ring, Slater got a two-count at 1:22 of the match. Slater clotheslined Jey down and tagged Gabriel. Single-leg take-down by Gabriel, then he went to an arm-bar. Gabriel went for a springboard, but Jey caught him and gave him a Samoan drop, all in one motion. Slater and Jimmy both tagged in at 3:23. Bubba Bomb by Jimmy, followed by a corner splash. Running rear attack in the corner by Jimmy got two. Gabriel broke it up, so Jimmy got rid of him and Jey was sent out by Slater. Superkick on Slater by Jimmy. He went for a top rope splash, but Slater got his knees up. He then rolled Jimmy up for the win.

WINNERS: Slater and Gabriel, at 4:29. The Usos are still green, but they’ve got potential.

5 – KANE vs. CHRISTIAN – IF CHRISTIAN WINS, HE GETS ANOTHER SHOT AT THE WORLD TITLE

This match is starting at 9:33 EST, and I don’t see it going nearly a half-hour. Kane threw Christian into the corner and laid in some back elbows. Kane whipped Christian chest-first into the buckle. Christian ducked under Kane and gave him an uppercut. Kane responded with one of his own. Christian choked Kane over the top rope, then did a reversal of that, bending Kane’s neck over the top. Dropkick off the top rope for a one-count. Christian choked Kane in the corner, and he broke at 4 ½. Reverse chin-lock by Christian on Kane, but he didn’t seem to have it fully locked in. Christian low-bridged a charging Kane, then went right out after him. He rammed Kane back-first into the barricade. He scampered back into the ring, appearing to hope for a count-out win. Kane made it back in before ten, but Christian landed a diving headbutt off the top. Only a two-count. They went to break at 4:49 of the contest.

Sidewalk slam for two by Kane out of break. Christian dove at Kane from the second rope, but Kane caught him and slammed him. Low dropkick for two. Tilt-a-whirl slam for two by the Big Red Monster. Springboard sunset flip failed, but Kane missed a corner charge and Christian connected on the flip kick. He went to the top, but Kane grabbed him by the throat. Tornado DDT by Christian for two at 10:46. You could hear Christian sucking wind as he tried to get to his feet in the corner. He went for a spear, but Kane booted him down. It only got a two count. Kane went to the top, but Christian pulled him off by the arm. That got a two-count. Christian complained about the count there, but went to the top. He came down and right into an upper cut by Kane. Only a two count. Kane then went to the top himself and clotheslined Christian down. He set up for the chokeslam, but Mark Henry ran out. He attacked Kane, giving him a big splash. The ref called for the bell.

WINNER: Kane, via DQ, at 13:14.

Christian got in Henry’s face for costing him a shot at the title, but the two teamed up to throw Kane out of the ring. Teddy Long came out and said Christian lost again. But this time, it wasn’t Christian’s fault. He gave Christian a chance to redeem himself if he can win a tag team match, where he teams up with Henry to face Kane and Randy Orton. Should’ve made him go one-on-one with Henry. Orton entered the arena. Match is next.

6 – CHRISTIAN & MARK HENRY vs. KANE & RANDY ORTON

Match started upon return from break, at 9:51 EST. Orton tried to get a quick pin on Christian, to no avail. Booker and Mathews praised Long for his fairness in this matter. Cole, of course, disagreed. By making this match, Long is just opening himself up to more complaints by Christian, for instance, what if Henry gets pinned? Christian can say he never lost the match, but his partner did. Crowd chanted “RKO” as Christian and Henry tagged in and out to work over Orton. Inside cradle by Orton for two. Henry tossed Orton around like a rag-doll. Butt splash by Henry missed, as Orton rolled out of the way. Both men tried to get up at 2:51, and Kane did get the hot tag. He and Henry collided, with Kane getting the better of it. To the top, Kane nailed Henry with a flying clothesline. That only got two at 3:33 of the match. Kane picked Henry up, but fell back due to Henry’s weight. Tag to Christian and again I can hear that heavy breathing from someone. Kidney shots by Christian in the corner and again, he pushed the count to 4 ½. After softening up the big man, Christian tagged Henry in to do more damage. Overhand forearms by Henry to the chest of Kane. Henry ran into a chokeslam out of nowhere and both men fell to the mat at 6:12. Cole noted that Big Show has been taken to a local medical establishment due to the attack by Henry earlier in the show. Orton tagged in, but Christian didn’t, and Orton cleaned house on Christian anyway. RKO on Christian, but World’s Strongest Slam by Henry and Christian has another shot.

WINNERS: Henry and Christian, at 7:37.

Cole talked of Christian sacrificing himself so Henry, the legal man, would have time to recover. They replayed the finish and Christian took the title, trash talking a fallen Orton while holding it as the show came to a close.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 29 2011, 01:17 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-27-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51072.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- C.M. PUNK vs. KANE

Back live, Cole noted Kane felt Henry's wrath on Smackdown last week. The bell sounded and Kane uppercut Punk to the outside. Back in the ring, Kane delivered a running dropkick for a nearfall. Lawler posed the question of what would happen to WWE if Punk walks out as champion. Cole played up WWE's recent marketing philosophy of trying to find something that's "never, ever happened before." Punk then took control as Cole played up Punk's storyline reason for wanting to leave WWE: feeling disrespected by the locker room and fans. Kane made a comeback, but Punk caught him on the top turnbuckle. Kane headbutted Punk to the mat, then Punk quickly rolled out of the ring to avoid Kane. Punk waved off Kane as the ref began counting. Instead of stressing the consequences of losing a match, Cole called it a good move, with the argument being Punk already has his title match in the bag. Punk disappeared to the back at an eight count, then Punk was counted out to give Kane the win.

WINNER: Kane via count-out at 4:18. WWE is so inconsistent with their application of consequences to losing a match. On Smackdown and Superstars, the announcers have randomly begun discussing the "winner's purse," but on Raw, it's a foreign concept. Either stress it or don't bring it up. Aside from that, the match was just part of WWE's attempt to build that bridge to the MITB PPV. It seems like there will be follow-up later in the show.

2 -- EVAN "AIR" BOURNE vs. SIN CARA -- No count-out match

Roberts was still in the ring waiting to announce the stipulation, but the ref called for the bell. Bourne was like, "Um, to the Videotron." The ref calmed everyone down, then sent it to the Videotron. Booker and Eve hyped the match, then the wheel landed on a No Count-out match. So much for not repeating stipulations from last week. Back live, the bell re-sounded to officially start the match, complete with mood lighting. Cole dropped "wrestling" in the broadcast recapping Sin Cara's background getting his start in Mexico. After some basic back-and-forth, the action moved to the floor and the two men squared off with each other before simultaneously re-entering the ring.

Back in the ring, Bourne landed kick strikes before Sin Cara knocked him to the floor. Cole referenced this past weekend's Smackdown house show tour in South Texas and claimed Sin Cara had the biggest ovations. Lawler added another "wrestling" reference, saying it's difficult to come up with a gameplan when wrestling against Sin Cara. Back in the ring, Bourne scored a nearfall via crucifix pin. Sin Cara came back with a nearfall before Bourne landed an enziguiri for a nearfall. Cole referenced Sin Cara being unbeaten in WWE as Sin Cara landed a twisting corkscrew press for a two count.

At 4:00, Bourne came back with a standing moonsault for a nearfall. Bourne then set up Sin Cara for Air Bourne, but Sin Cara moved and Bourne landed his feet. Sin Cara then dropped Bourne with a spinning armbar takedown and it was good for the pin and the win. Post-match: Sin Cara pointed down at Bourne out of respect before WWE went to a replay of the big moves during the match.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 4:50. This was probably the smoothest Sin Cara has looked on live TV (not Smackdown). Short at five minutes, but it felt like a full TV match for this era. Fine action teasing more they could put together. (*3/4)

3 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Cole said a victory for Kingston could put him back in the hunt for the U.S. Title. Dolph tried running away early on, but Kofi caught up with him. Back on the floor, Dolph smashed Kofi into the ringpost to take control. The ref was at six of a ten count when WWE decided to show wrestling doesn't matter by cutting to break with Kofi in jeopardy flat on his back on the floor.

Back live, the action was in the ring and at least the announcers acknowledged Kofi barely made it back into the ring to continue the match. Dolph maintained control of the match as Cole plugged upcoming WWE house shows. As Dolph continued to slow down the pace, Cole plugged the origins of their feud last year on Smackdown before continuing to Raw.

At 7:00, Kofi tried a surprise pin, but Dolph escaped. The two men scrapped for a bit before Dolph cut off Kofi with a boot to the head. Dolph then tried to throw Kofi out of the ring, but Kofi suddenly rebounded off the ropes and flowed right into Trouble in Paradise on Dolph for the pin and the win. Very fluid finish right there. After a replay, they showed Kofi celebrating his victory in the ring.

WINNER: Kingston at 7:35. What you would expect from Kofi and Dolph without Vickie present. They didn't go out there to have a steal-the-show match, but tell a story that Dolph isn't a capable champion unless Vickie is present. (*1/2)

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- steel cage match

The bell sounded and Del Rio quickly tried to climb out of the cage, but Show yanked him down to center-ring and delivered a big chop. Del Rio then ate the cage face-first before Show dragged Del Rio's face across the cage. Del Rio came back with a dropkick to the injured knee, giving Del Rio an opening. As Del Rio worked on Show, Mark Henry suddenly emerged and began walking to ringside. Henry walked over to the announce table and started talking trash to no one in particular. Henry paced ringside as Show made a comeback with a hard chop. Show then teased a chokeslam, but Del Rio kicked the leg again before delivering a DDT for a two count.

Del Rio tried to escape the cage, but Show yanked him down to his feet. Show suddenly climbed up the turnbuckles with Del Rio and set him up for a SuperShowplex. After a pause, Show executed and Cole said the ring & cage shook. At this point, Henry decided to interject himself into the match. Henry ripped off the cage door after some struggle, then brought the door inside the cage. Henry booted Show and Del Rio crawled on his hands and knees out of the cage door, picking up the win.

Post-match: Henry stared down at Show as Del Rio smiled on the outside. Henry lifted up the cage door and charged Show to smash him in-between the cage door and wall. Show then spilled out of the cage, falling on top of the gimmicked side of the cage that fell upon impact. Henry shouted down at Show that he's not playing anymore. Henry started yelling at refs and agents who came down to ringside. "You going to fine me?!" Henry shouted. Henry ripped off the announce table cover before trash-talking fans. Henry said he wishes someone would step up to him. Medics checked on Show as they cut to break.

WINNER: Del Rio at 5:20. Blah cage match that was merely a means to an end of extending the Show-Henry feud and continuing to establish Henry's violent, destructive character. Henry has played his role very well the last two weeks on Raw.

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) -- non-title Submission match

A brief match ended with Kelly submitting Nikki in a Boston Crab. That might be a first. After the match, the Bella Twins beat down Kelly before Eve ran out to make the save. After a replay of the match that nearly doubled the time of the match, the heels and faces trash-talked each other to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Kelly via submission at 1:20.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 29 2011, 01:17 am
6 -- THE MIZ & JACK SWAGGER vs. REY MYSTERIO & ALEX RILEY -- Texas Tornado tag match

The bell sounded and the men paired off against each other. The sound was thrown off by about two seconds during the BA STAR PSA and remained thrown off at the beginning of the match. The first nearfall of the match had the audio happening two seconds before the visual of the nearfall. Rey and Swagger eventually moved their fight to the floor. In the ring, Miz scored a close nearfall and they cut to break with Riley looking down at Miz.

Back live, Miz and Swagger were talking strategy while standing over Riley. A replay from during the break showed how the heels took control of the match. Riley tried a spirited comeback on Miz, but Swagger cut him off from behind. Suddenly, Rey re-entered the match with a cross-body attempt on Swagger, but Swagger caught him in mid-air for a gutbuster across Miz's knee. It only resulted in a two count, then the heels went to work on the faces. "619, 619" chant from the crowd, which drew Miz's ire. Miz then dropped Rey with a DDT after Rey teased a comeback, but it only drew a two count.

Riley and Swagger found themselves on the floor moments later, leaving Miz and Rey in the ring. Miz wanted a superplex, but Rey blocked and headbutted Miz to the mat. Rey followed with a seated plancha, ducked a Swagger clothesline, and smashed Miz with a kick to the head, but Miz kicked out of a pin. Rey then set up the 619 on Miz, but Swagger yanked Rey to the floor. Back in the ring, Riley caught Swagger with a spinebuster and made a cover, but Miz broke up the pin. Miz regrouped and dropped Riley for a fallaway DDT, but Riley kicked out, drawing a reaction from the crowd. Cole said he admits he's been impressed by Riley, who then clotheslined Miz over the top rope to the floor. Back in the ring, Swagger smashed Rey in the face with a big boot and scored another believable nearfall. Swagger, frustrated, went for a gutwrench bomb, but Rey countered into the 619, only to have Swagger grab Rey's leg. Swagger applied the anklelock and Miz helped out before Riley yanked Miz away.

On the floor, Riley slingshot Miz into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Rey hit the 619 and Riley dropped Swagger with his signature DDT. Rey followed right up with his top-rope splash on Swagger in one fluid motion and it was good for the win. Afterward, Rey sold a left knee injury as Riley checked on him. Rey limped across the ring to celebrate with Riley as the crowd roared.

WINNERS: Rey & Riley at 11:43. That was a hot match with all of the intangibles that make up a standout TV match. That's called taking advantage of an opportunity to steal the show. Swagger, despite taking the expected loss, looked solid for the first time in months. Riley gained some momentum, Miz looked good when he was in control, and Rey was Rey. (***)

7 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. R-TRUTH -- non-title Tables match

The bell sounded and Lawler brought up Cena losing a famous tables match to Sheamus, which was at the TLC 2009 PPV to begin Sheamus's first WWE Title run. Cole tried to sell Truth as a formidable opponent by saying they all seem to laugh at Truth's antics, but he's a dangerous man. The crowd started with the dueling chants one minute into the match as Truth took control.

At the top of the hour, Cena charged Truth for the Attitude Adjustment, but Truth escaped and hit a float-over jawbreaker. Truth then slipped out of the ring and grabbed a table, which he slid into the ring. Truth set up the table in the ring as Cole recapped the important match results on the show. Nice touch. Cena sold being in peril as Truth set him up for a suplex through the table, but Cena countered with a suplex away from the table. Cena then yanked down the top rope to send a running Truth over the top rope.

On the floor, Cena threw Truth into the ring steps before finding his own table to introduce into the ring. Cena set up the table in the ring before grabbing Truth on the floor and throwing him into the ring. Cena stalked Truth for the AA, but Punk came down to ringside and moved the table out of the way as Cena delivered the AA. Punk smirked and did You Can't See Me, prompting Cena to jump Punk on the floor. Punk ran back into the ring, Cena chased him, and Truth speared Cena right through the table to pick up the win. Both Cena and Truth sold the effects of what was a vicious-looking ending to the match.

WINNER: Truth at 5:14.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 01 2011, 06:42 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51100.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and elimination.

1 -- DARREN YOUNG vs. CONOR O'BRIAN

The match quickly spilled to the floor in front of the announcers. Conor vowed to whip up Young before they re-entered the ring to resume a scrap. Regal tried to suggest Young was in a better position than his Pro, Chavo, because he's here and Chavo's gone. Grisham quipped back they should apparently forget the last 15 years for Chavo. Meanwhile, the scrap moved to the ring apron and a neckbreaker was executed that appeared to hurt both individuals. Both men sold as they cut to break.

Back on NXT, Young was working over Conor, who kicked out of repeated pin attempts. Young had a cut lip that produced blood, which the camera focused on. Grisham noted Kozlov isn't here tonight because he's on the Australian Tour with the Raw brand. Young continued to wear down Conor, drawing boos when he played to the crowd.

The crowd tried a slow clap that inspired Conor to execute a back suplex into a catapult for a nearfall as he started a comeback. Conor then took Young's head off with a big boot and fired himself up. Conor followed with head butts in the corner, but Young came back with the Three Amigos suplexes. Young executed all three, then slapped his chest a la the Guerreros. Young followed with a top-rope frog splash and connected. One, two, three, and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Young at 8:40. There was no reason provided to the live crowd to cheer for Conor, so the crowd was quiet for most of this (other than a customary slow clap), but Young played his part well.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

The bell sounded and Yoshi tackled Kidd to pound on him again, which popped the crowd. Kidd rolled on top, but Yoshi knocked Kidd to the floor. Yoshi shouted down at Kidd to get back in the ring as the crowd chanted, "Yoshi, Yoshi." Yoshi then chased Kidd around the ring, then re-entered the ring and started chopping away on Kidd. Yoshi landed big kicks to the back and scored a nearfall, but lost control moments later. Kidd then slowed down Yoshi in the corner and began working him over. Kidd then knocked Yoshi to the outside and rammed him into the ring steps as they cut to break.

Back from break, Kidd was working over Yoshi center-ring as Yoshi tried to rally behind a "Let's Go Yoshi" chant. Yoshi came back with a chop, then another chop, but Kidd cut him off with a blow to his "injured" left shoulder. Kidd continued to work over the shoulder as Regal provided solid commentary on the match strategy for both sides.

At 7:00, Yoshi fired back with combination kicks and slaps that put Kidd on the mat. The crowd got behind Yoshi, who followed with a rolling kick to the chest before selling he expended a lot of energy on the comeback. Yoshi then found a burst of energy for a roundhouse kick, but Kidd kicked out at two. Yoshi tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Kidd jumped to the top turnbuckle, only to be shoved down to the mat, but he crotched Yoshi out of desperation. Kidd then followed up top and snapped off a huracanrana for a close two count. The crowd popped, then rallied behind Yoshi, who came back with a lightning kick to the head moments later. Yoshi with the pin and the win. Big cheer for Yoshi as Regal said that's the type of competition he likes to see in WWE. "This is what we need more of here," he said. They went to a replay of the high points from the match before cutting to a shot of Yoshi bowing for the crowd.

WINNER: Yoshi at 9:21. Excellent "TV" match. Yoshi's intensity at the beginning of the match set a very good tone for this match, following all the way through to the finish. Yoshi could be a valuable part of one of the two main rosters if utilized after a nice run on NXT developing a new side to his character. (**1/2)

3 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. JTG

Maryse cut an early promo on Regal, who called her wicked last week. 35 seconds in, Swoggle walked over to the announce table to hand Maryse a note. "Do you like me? Yes or No?" Maryse made a note about not dating average size men, which Regal tried to pause on, but Maryse kept talking about not liking Swoggle. Maryse snapped a picture of Swoggle on her phone as Titus dominated the action in the ring. JTG then slipped out of the ring and bumped into Swoggle, who scampered up the ring steps and posed in JTG's face. Swoggle waved to Maryse as he posed, then Titus yanked JTG back into the ring.

Moments later, Titus hit the sky-high bomb for the win. No tension with Swoggle taking all of the attention away from Titus, who lifted up Swoggle in the air for a victory celebration. Maryse then took off her headset and tore up the note before throwing it in the air. Swoggle just shook his head and left the ring as Titus tried to console him. Regal said he would have laughed at this years ago, but he thinks it's sad. Swoggle and Titus eventually left. Elimination is up next.

WINNER: Titus at 3:23.

Announcers: Striker and Maryse were shown ringside standing next to the three remaining Rookies. Striker recapped the Redemption Points deal before a review of the points showed O'Neil with 22, Young with 7, and O'Brian with 3. Striker then cued up the drumroll. And the eliminated Rookie is...Conor O'Brian. Finally.

Titus shook Conor's hand before Conor took the mic. Conor thanked everyone for voting for him before noting he couldn’t think of a better place to go out than right here in Phoenix. Conor addressed "Hunter" that all he's asking for is a chance to play the game. Conor thanked the crowd and walked off as Titus applauded him.

Back to Striker, who noted the winner of NXT5 earns a spot on NXT6 and gets to pick his own Pro. Striker said the winner won't be limited to just Titus and Young, though. Striker said they will be joined by this man...out came NXT4 favorite Derrick Bateman, who was flanked by his former Pro, Daniel Bryan. Quite the development. Bateman was more subdued than his high-energy persona last season. Young complained about this development while Titus confidently stood his ground. They signed off with a slow-mo shot of Conor seeing his name in lights as the next elimination.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 03 2011, 02:30 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-30-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51145.shtml) Codensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BETH PHOENIX vs. GAIL KIM

Phoenix over-powered Gail early on as Mathews reported he still can't get to the bottom of the feud between Gail and former best friend Melina. Gail then locked in a submission wrapped around Phoenix's upper body before Phoenix threw her to the mat to escape. Beth made her comeback with power offense, but couldn't put away Gail. The two Divas traded nearfalls before Beth caught Gail in position for the Glam Slam. Gail fought it momentarily, but Beth finished her for the win. Afterward, mutual respect was shown between the two babyface wrestlers.

WINNER: Phoenix at 4:02. Solid back-and-forth action that was a taste of what WWE could offer from their women's division(s) if the talented wrestlers were given a spotlight.

2 -- JTG vs. CHRIS MASTERS

Mathews's voice seems to get more gravelly with each passing week trying to describe Masters's physique and strength. Masters ripped off a few early chops to the chest before JTG took control of the match, drawing the ire of the audience. Mathews then interjected the unfortunately infrequently-promoted concept that winning matches = money and a rise up the rankings to earn future title shots. WWE is so inconsistent with this element that it means nothing simply being part of Superstars dialogue. Four minutes into the match, Masters caught JTG in Masterlock position. JTG fought it momentarily, but became another victim to Masters's finisher.

WINNER: Masters via submission at 4:05. Masters has been "rising up the rankings" with Superstars victories for months, but it hasn't paid off with an appearance on Raw.

3 -- KAITLYN (w/Natalya) vs. ALICIA FOX (w/Rosa Mendes)

Apparently the Lay-Cool "Mean Girls" replacements - Alicia, Rosa, and Tamina - are labeled the "It Girls. Korpela tried to call out the heels for heelish behavior in the storylines. In reply, Striker reflected McMahon's off-center view on life that you're weak if you try to act honorably, strong if you bully people around, and succesful if you run over people on the way to the top. After some back-and-forth, Kaitlyn missed with a corner attack, then walked into an axe kick from Alicia. Alicia with the pin for the win. Korpela tried to offer Kaitlyn some advice on getting back up after getting knocked down.

WINNER: Alicia at 3:05. Basic-level action keeping the heel vs. face Divas feud on Smackdown in the Superstars spotlight.

4 -- TYSON KIDD & JUSTIN GABRIEL & HEATH SLATER vs. TRENT BARRETA & THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY)

As expected, Slater took the brunt of the face trio's offense early on. Korpela plugged the upcoming South African tour featuring native Gabriel, who will be shark-diving on the tour, according to Korpela. Barreta lost control of the match for the face trio and they cut to break.

Back from break, Barreta broke free and tagged in Jey Uso, who cleaned house on the heels before dropping a running butt bomb in the corner. Uso then went up top, but Kidd distracted him, giving Slater an opening to toss Jey off the top turnbuckle for a two count. And the heels resumed control of the match. It's worth noting WWE has seemingly dropped Kidd's managerial search, as well as Striker playing Kidd's so-called agent, as Striker made zero reference to it during the match broadcast.

Jey eventually escaped the heel corner and tagged in Jimmy, who came in hot on Kidd. Jimmy followed with a toss-up Samoan Drop for a close nearfall. Barreta was in next for a top-rope splash that also resulted in a nearfall only. The action broke down at this point as ref Nunzio tried to restore order. Suddenly, Barreta suplexed Kidd off the top rope with a splash onto everyone on the floor. "Are youkiding me?" Korpela shouted. They went to a replay as all six men sold on the floor.

As Nunzio applied a ten count, Barreta rolled Kidd back into the ring to score another close two count when Gabriel broke up the pin. The Usos then smashed Gabriel on the floor, Barreta hit the Dudebuster DDT on Kidd, and Uso tagged in to deliver a top-rope splash on Kidd for the pin and the win. After the match, Striker entered "match evaluation mode" discussing the performances in the ring rather than the Usos and Barreta earning a bigger payday and advancing up the ladder via victory. It's so inconsistent and indicative of WWE's current booking flaws. After a replay of the finish, the show ended with the faces celebrating in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Usos at 12:40. Solid six-man tag. Slow early on, then a nice finish, and the Usos continue to look impressive since being re-emphasized. WWE needs to find something else for Gabriel to do, as his talent is being under-utilized in this current role. He can be a breakout star for WWE if given a fresh program away from being on the tail-end of the tail-end of Nexus's run last year. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 03 2011, 02:32 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-30-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51156.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- SAMOA JOE vs. DEVON - Bound For Glory Series Match

The crowd started cheering for Devon at the bell, but Joe quickly put him into a rear naked choke. Devon squirmed his way to the rope to break the hold as the announcers put over Joe's submission skills.

Joe drove Devon into the corner and hit a big kick on him to fell him. Joe dragged him to the middle and slapped his back before nailing a big knee to Devon's kidneys. This led to Devon crawling into the other corner and Joe gave him a three facewashes with his boot.

But as Joe went for the running boot, Devon exploded out of the corner for a spear to change momentum. Devon then hit a running elbow and a standing headbutt that led to a clothesline and a two count at the 3:00 mark.

Joe climbed to his feet in the corner and got a boot up on a charging Devon. Samoa Joe then climbed to the second rope and hit a huge leg Lariat. He went for a two count but then switched to a lower body submission that Devon squirmed out of.

Joe quickly turned around and hit an atomic drop and put Devon into a Keylock submission. Devon continued to squirm out and got a rope break.

Samoa Joe continued to dominate and hit a snap slam. This led to a cross arm breaker submission that Devon escaped from at the 5:00 mark. Joe then drove Devon into the corner and went for the Muscle Buster, but he was pushed off.

Devon went for a big elbow off of the top rope but Joe hit him in the face with a big kick. Joe then went for the rear naked choke again but Devon continued to show his ability to escape and fought out with a shoulder toss.

This led to Devon hitting what looked like a running choke slam on Joe for a three count that saw Joe kick out almost immediately after the ref's hand hit the mat.

WINNER: DEVON in 6:00 to win 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

After the match, the announcers discussed how Joe had to have been feeling the pressure with zero points in the standings, hence his submission attempts. Joe sold frustration at ringside afterwards.

2 - LOW KI vs. MATT BENTLEY vs. JIMMY "The King" YANG - X Division Contract Series

A very fast paced start where Low Ki hit an incredible high kick off of the top rope into Yang, which drew a big "Low-Ki" chant from the crowd. Low Kit then hit a handspring cross body splash onto Bentley that knocked Bentley out of the ring.

But Wang came right in and kicked Low Ki hard. He threw him into the corner and hit a really innovative high kick where he twisted over the top rope while making contact with Low Ki's chin. This led directly to Wang hitting a cross body splash off of the top rope for a two count.

Bentley came back into the ring at this point and threw Wang over the top rope. Wang tried to skin the cat but Bentley whipped Low Ki into him as Wang was halfway back up, creating an upside down spear effect that had the crowd oohing and aahing.

Bentley went with a bunch of submissions on Low Ki, who eventually fought out of a chinlock but was subsequently clotheslined out of the ring. Bentley followed Low Ki out but was hit with a really stiff kick.

But then out of nowhere, Wang hit a huge flying splash onto Low Ki at ringside at 2:45. Just enormous elevation by Wang. He threw Low Ki back into the ring and they went back and forth before Low Ki started hitting some vicious stiff kicks on Yang before hitting a double foot stomp on Yang.

Low Ki then hit another big springboard move on Bentley, this time a flying kick. But this was only good for a two count and Yang manged to hit some kicks to break Low Ki's momentum.

Bentley then came out of the corner and got the better of Wang and lined up for a DDT on Wang. Low Ki charged him but Bentley grabbed him and hit a simultaneous cutter and DDT to fell both men. Bentley then hit a superkick on Low Ki for a near fall.

Bentley then went high risk on Wang but got caught with a knee to the gut. Wang dragged him over to the corner and went for a corkscrew moonsault and missed.

This opened up the opportunity for Low Ki, who climbed up onto the far turnbuckle and hit a double foot stomp --- The Warrior's Way --- on Yang. Low Ki covered him and Bentley couldn't make it back in time to break up the pin.

WINNER: LOW KI in 6:45 to earn a spot at Destination X

Now there are Austin Aries, Zima Ion, and Low Ki in the four-way match at Destination X.

3 - WINTER & ANGELINA LOVE & MADISON RAYNE vs. Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES & TARA & MISS TESSMACHER--- Elimination Match

Mickie James and Winter started things off and Mickie took control early with a Thesz press and mount. Micke pulled Winter's belt off and tried to hit her with it but the ref took it away.

But this gave Angelina the chance to run in and hit a jawbreaker on Mickie and toss her out of the ring. Tessmacher charged in and then Tenay casually mentioned that this was going to be an elimination match. That would have been nice to know before the match, wouldn't it.

Anyways, back in the ring, Tessmacher was giving Winter the Stink Face. Much nicer than when Rikishi did it back in the day. Not very effective as Winter quickly hit a Northern Lights Suplex and pinned Tessmacher.

MISS TESSMACHER ELIMINATED at 2:00

Tara ran into the ring but was quickly knocked out by Madison Rayne. Winter then put Tara on her shoulders before Angelina hit the Botox Injection and Winter went for the pin. However, Madison stole the pin by throwing Winter out of the ring.

TARA ELIMINATED at 3:30

This obviously wasn't popular with Winter and Angelina, who angrily stared Madison down. Madison turned around and took a Superkick from Mickie James and Winter told Mickie to cover her. Mickie didn't take her eyes off of Winter & Love as she eliminated Rayne.

MADISON RAYNE ELIMINATED at 3:50

Mickie then speared Winter but the numbers advantage quickly took over. With Mickie down and beaten, Winter put her on her shoulders and Angelina went for another Botox Injection. But Mickie squirmed out right into a pin and it was a near two count that Angelina broke up.

Angelina then hit a backstabber on Mickie and James was down. As Angelina wanted the pin, Winter told her no because it was her turn. They debated it for too long, as Mickie made a comeback and hit a hurrancanranna on Winter before hitting a cutter on Angelina for the three count.

ANGELINA LOVE ELIMINATED at 6:15

Winter then tried to attack Mickie but James turned the tables and hit the Tornado DDT for the pinfall on Winter.

WINNER: MICKIE JAMES in 6:30

4 - A.J. STYLES vs. GUNNER --- Bound For Glory Series Match

Styles went after Gunner at ringside, who climbed back into the ring to meet a vicious kick from Styles. The red mat is like watching a Boise State college football game --- the surface just doesn't look right.

Styles was in big control early, hitting a big flying fist in the corner and hitting numerous stiff kicks. Styles followed that up with a backdrop suplex on the significantly bigger Gunner.

But, Gunner fought back with a high running knee and took control. Gunner went for a powerbomb but A.J. fought out and hit the Pele Kick. Gunner tried to climb to his feet on the ring apron but Styles hit him with a drop kick to knock him to the ground.

Styles followed that up with a spectacular flip dive over the top rope at the 3:00 mark. But when Styles pushed him back into the ring, Gunner countered and went for the F5 finisher. Styles turned it into a big kick and then hit a powerslam.

Styles climbed outside to go for a springboard move, but Gunner pulled referee Earl Hebner into the way, which was enough to allow him to kick the middle rope and crotch Styles. This led to a F5 and Hebner counted the three count very slowly. A.J. didn't kick out.

WINNER: GUNNER in 4:50 to win 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

Gunner now leads the BFG Series with 21 points.

5 - STING vs. SCOTT STEINER

Steiner was in early control, beating Sting into a corner and hitting a side suplex on the Stinger. After a Steinerliner, the trademark elbow drop and pushups from Steiner ensued. Good commentary from Taz and Tenay here breaking down Steiner's offense as they said his plan appeared to be to prevent Sting from hitting the Stinger Splash.

Two minutes into the match, Sting finally got some offense in with a boot to Steiner's face. The two men traded blows in the middle of the ring before Sting dropped him with a couple of clotheslines and a bulldog for a two count.

Sting went for the Stinger Splash but Steiner caught him and hit him with a DDT. Steiner went for the Steiner Recliner but Sting countered into the Scorpion Death Lock. Steiner managed to get to the ropes and gouged Sting's eyes when he got up.

This led to a T-Bone Suplex from Steiner and both men were down in the ring. After both men got to their feet, Steiner tried to whip Sting into the corner but Sting moved out of the way and caught Steiner with the Scorpion Death Drop for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: STING in 4:30
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 03 2011, 02:33 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51183.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and end-of-show segment.

1 – RANDY ORTON vs. MARK HENRY

The announcers were shown at ringside during Orton’s entrance, with Cole ranting against Long as usual. As the bell sounded, Henry picked Orton up and took him to the corner. Orton escaped at pounded on Henry with rights. Back to Henry, who Irish whipped Orton to opposite turnbuckles, then landed a belly-to-belly slam for a two-count. Henry put Orton on his shoulder, but Orton got out and ran right into a big boot from the Texan. Henry stepped on Orton’s chest and Booker T. proclaimed that a Henry win should make him #1 Contender for the World Title. Cole said he broke into WWE the same year Henry did, but I feel like Henry was there a year or two earlier. Orton turned the tide and went for a pin, but Henry went to the outside. Henry slammed Orton back-first into the edge of the apron. At 3:46 of the match, Big Show’s music played. Henry shook his head yes and was ready for the show-down. Glad he didn’t back down like so many do. Anyway, Show never came out, and Henry turned around into an RKO from Orton. Orton slid into the ring at nine and won by count-out.

WINNER: Orton, via count-out, at 4:22. I think it says something that they didn’t put Orton over Henry cleanly. Not much of a match.

2 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. TED DIBIASE

No music for Bryan or DiBiase as Mathews said the audio technician is still unconscious and will be taken to a local medical facility. They showed Bryan getting bagged last week. They had an inset interview with DiBiase, who said he hoped Cody Rhodes was watching because he’s going to beat Bryan badly tonight. Arm-drag by Bryan and Bryan caught DiBiase on a leap-frog attempt and took him down by the leg. Surfboard by Bryan into a pin for attempt. Dropkick and a beauty by DiBiase. Bryan went to the outside, and they went to break about 1:45 in. Good thing they didn’t take a break when Henry went outside during the first match!

Back at 6:17 of the match, with Bryan working out of a headlock. Slingshot clothesline by DiBiase for two. Cole said it was 110 in Phoenix today, and Booker said it felt like 120. Really? Can Booker really tell the difference between 110 and 120 degrees? Back to a rear chinlock by DiBiase. I wonder if Mathews wonders each week how he’ll work “power” into the broadcast to plug KMart. Running clothesline by Bryan, then a running dropkick in the corner for two. Bryan started getting pumped up, kicking DiBiase in the chest. DiBiase countered into a roll-up, by Bryan grabbed the arm and tried the LeBell Lock. DiBiase got to the ropes at 9:00 to break. Bryan back-dropped DiBiase to ringside. Bryan went to the apron and dove onto DiBiase, but DiBiase caught him, rammed him back-first into the ring post, then into the barricade. Bryan held his shoulder and screamed in pain. Back in the ring, a pin attempt got two at 10:17. Some trash talk by DiBiase in the corner, then a slap to the face. The referee admonished DiBiase for keeping Bryan in the corner. He set Bryan up on the top rope, but Bryan blocked a suplex. He headbutted DiBiase down and landed a missile dropkick off the top. Both men were down at 11:50. Back to a vertical base, Bryan slapped at DiBiase and took his head off with a kick for a very near-fall. Bryan continued to sell the right shoulder. Bryan got booted in the face in the corner, but countered Dream Street. He also countered another slingshot clothesline and grabbed a front facelock, wrapping his legs around DiBiase’s torso. DiBiase tapped.

WINNER: Bryan, at 13:08. Really nice match between these two. DiBiase’s stock should be rising with his latest string of performances.

3 – CHRISTIAN vs. SIN CARA

Kane, Sin Cara, Dainel Bryan, Wade Barrett, Cody Rhodes, Justin Gabriel, Heath Slater, and Sheamus were shown as being in the Smackdown portion of MITB. Really? Gabriel and Slater? That’s weak, especially since they barely beat the Usos (after losing to them the week before). Also, does it spoil things not having Henry in there, that he will end up in the title match? Or is he not included as punishment for attacking a crew member, which is the direction they should go with it, to show there are consequences for actions?

Cara got Christian off-balance to start things as Christian took his time on the outside. “Are you trying to embarrass me? I can’t see with these lights!” Christian yelled from ringside, bringing up a solid point as they went to break.

Back at 3:53 of the match, with Christian in control. Cara came back and did a slingshot spinning cross-body onto Christian at ringside. Christian took back control in the ring. The briefcase ominously hung over-head during the match. Cara did his flip wrist-lock take-over. Pin got two. Christian dumped Cara over the top rope and to the outside. Cole went Larry Zbyszko, saying that’s what happens to the high-fliers, “they run out of gas and go ‘splat.’” Christian put the boots to Cara, then applied a rear chinlock. Crowd got behind Cara, but Christian slammed him. He stepped on Cara’s back with Cara’s throat across the middle rope. To the top went Christian, but he missed a diving headbutt. Springboard back-elbow by Cara. Cara got on Christian’s shoulders and it appeared neither man knew what the other was doing, so they circled around a bit and Cara rolled Christian up for two. Kick to the back of the head by Cara with Christian perched on the middle rope. Christian knocked him off, but Cara rolled and flipped to where it didn’t hurt him. Christian went to ringside, having seen enough of the unorthodox Cara. Back in the ring, Cara got a near-fall, but Christian landed an inverted DDT for two. Springboard back elbow attempt, but Christian caught him and tried a Killswitch. Cara has his leg pulled out from underneath him as he tried to go to the top, and Christian ran at him with a spear. Three-count ensued, and the first loss for Cara.

WINNER: Christian, at 11:44. Cara had to lose sometime, and doing it to the guy who will be challenging for the World Title at a PPV doesn’t hurt him, but it helps Christian. Match was disjoined in spots, but still enjoyable.

4 – CODY RHODES vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Once again, Booker got a bag from Cody’s bag men. Mathews talked about following Zeke’s Twitter. I’m sure it’s full of deep thoughts. Clean break by Jackson in the corner, but Jackson soon after grabbed Rhodes by the throat and took him down with a shoulder tackle. Beal out of the corner put Rhodes on his back. DiBiase was at ringside with Rhodes. Hard shot to the back by Jackson, then an elbowdrop for two. Jackson lifted Rhodes over his head for a slam, but Rhodes fought out, escaped out of the ring, then under it. DiBiase distracted Jackson, allowing Rhodes to come out and bop Jackson, then throw him into the ring post. Mathews explained the origin of the phrase “shoots the half” to Cole, who admitted to not understanding what it meant. And how many times has Cole used that phrase? Rhodes had Jackson down on the mat and tried to keep him there. Jackson lifted Rhodes up for a suplex and just tossed him front-first into the mat. Big running clothesline on Cody in the corner, then a slam. DiBiase got on the apron and Jackson ran him into the ring-post. That allowed Cody to land a springboard enziguiri, then hit Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 4:07. Hey look, another champion losing a non-title match. What a shocker.

5 – KANE vs. WADE BARRETT

Barrett still has the Corre theme music. Both of these men are in the MITB Ladder Match. The announcers talked about Kane winning last year and cashing it in the same night. Shoulder knock-down by Kane for two. Barrett worked the arm of Kane and a clothesline surprisingly floored the Big Red Monster. Barrett put his head down and Kane kicked him in the top of his skull. Barrett rolled to ringside and Kane went after him. Lots of action outside the ring this week. Barrett, in the ring, kicked Kane off the apron and to ringside. They went to break at 2:15 of the match.

Back at 5:31 of the contest. Kane back suplexed out of a precarious situation. He ran into a back elbow from Barrett, who kicked Kane in the gut then in the head. Only a one-count off of that. Running boot to the seated Kane by Barrett. Cole speculated that Sheamus, due to the punt by Orton a few weeks ago, may not be ready in time for MITB. Knee strikes from Barrett with Kane wrapped-up in the ropes. Again, Barrett could only keep Kane down for a one-count. DDT by Barrett, which the audio sweetener loved, for a near-fall. Elbowdrop off the second rope missed the mark at 8:40. Kane fired back with rights then a cross-body. Impressive! Low dropkick from the big man for two. Big boot caught Barrett coming off the ropes. Sidewalk slam from Kane for two. Clothesline off the top by Kane, but Barrett avoided a chokeslam and a Tombstone to hit a swinging side slam for two. Kane got out of Wasteland and dodged a Barrett boot. Chokeslam finished it.

WINNER: Kane, at 11:24. Serviceable big man vs. big man match, but I don’t think it did anything to convince doubting fans that either of these two have a chance at MITB, especially with the way they’ve been portrayed lately.

- The signing of the title bout between Orton and Christian at MitB never took place as they were both ambushed and taken out by Sheamus to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2011, 01:26 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51222.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and closing segment.

1 -- THE BELLAS (BRIE & NIKKI BELLA) vs. Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE

The heels isolated Eve before Kelly hot-tagged into the match and taunted Bella #1 setting up her offensive attack. The action broke down, Eve cleared out Bella #2, and Kelly dropped Bella #1 with the Rocker Dropper for the win.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 3:08

2 -- WWE tag champions MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. SANTINO & KOZLOV -- non-title match

As the match began, Cole recapped Nexus's issues of late - Otunga and Mike taking superkicks from Shawn Michaels and Mason Ryan being injured at recent "live events." Cole recapped Otunga's background and noted he worked in the legal field in Chicago before becoming a "sports entertainer." Cole continued to rattle off canned plugs before Nexus isolated Kozlov in their corner. Kozlov then executed a double-suplex and tagged in Santino, who landed offense on Mike and David before warming up the Cobra. He looked for a victim and struck Otunga, who fell out of the ring. However, Mike was legal and he dropped Santino with a neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Suddenly, Zack Ryder's music hit and he stepped out on-stage to offer his signature catchphrase. Cole had a good laugh as Ryder's music played again. Ryder stared down the tag champs, who sold they were perplexed by this development.

WINNERS: Nexus at 4:15.

3 -- SGT. SLAUGHTER vs. JACK SWAGGER

As he should, Swagger quickly dominated as Lawler warned Cole about his comments on Slaughter. Slaughter caught Swagger with a back-elbow smash, then went for the Cobra Clutch, but Swagger rammed Slaughter into the corner to escape. Swagger followed with a leaping Vader Bomb and it was good for the win.

Post-match: Slaughter sold injured ribs and the victory wasn't good enough for Swagger, who followed with an anklelock. As Slaughter tapped, Evan Bourne stormed the ring to fend off Swagger. Bourne knocked Swagger to the floor, then gave a mic to Slaughter, who was still selling injured ribs. After catching his breath, Slaughter led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

WINNER: Swagger at 1:09.

4 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. R-TRUTH -- three-way #1 contender's match to the WWE Title

Mysterio knocked Del Rio to the outside early on, then wanted a dive on the floor, but Truth cut him off with a spinning fist smash for a two count. Truth went to work on Rey in the ring as the show reached the top of the hour.

The action moved to the floor, where Truth blasted Rey into one guardrail, then flung Del Rio into another guardrail. Back in the ring, Truth covered Rey for a two count. Meanwhile, Cole talked up Truth's "conspiracy theory" program and said it's no secret the "WWE machine" has been behind Cena. Well, yes, in the storyline context, if he wins the most matches and wins championships, why wouldn't WWE "get behind him?" It's WWE tripping all over themselves trying to discuss the "brand" and "the machine" determine success or failure, which is out-of-place on a show that presents worked matches as legitimate contests determining a winner and a loser. The show cut to break with Rey splashing the heels off the top rope and in control of the match.

Back from break, Del Rio was in control of the action grinding Rey's face into the ropes. Rey cam back with a kick strike, but ran into a backbreaker from Del Rio, who scored a two count. Truth became re-involved in the match and the heels began fighting over who should pin Rey. Del Rio then flew to the outside after missing a corner attack, Rey hit the 619 on Truth, and then hit a top-rope splash. Rey had the pin on Truth, but Del Rio jumped back into the ring and slapped on the cross arm-breaker. Rey quickly tapped out, giving Del Rio the win. Del Rio is the new #1 contender. Cole unconvincingly said Del Rio heads to MITB to face Cena and now they have to find out who replaces Del Rio in the MITB ladder match.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission on Rey at 13:09. Standard three-way match spots and a standard house show finish with the heel sneaking in the back door to opportunistically score the win. Good effort from all three wrestlers three hours into last week's TV taping. (**)

5 -- THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY

Back to real-time, the bell sounded and the match began with aggressive lock-ups center-ring. Cole heeled on Riley, saying he has had everything handed to him in life and he's a spoiled rich kid who blew an opportunity with Miz. Lawler said Cole has everything backward because the only person abused was Riley under Miz's watch. Miz took control early on as Cole announced McMahon is "on his way to Raw." Miz continued to maintain control, with the match looking like Capitol Punishment with Miz taunting Riley and telling him he made him. Miz scored a nearfall and they cut to break.

Back from break, Riley tried fighting back against Miz, then they collided mid-ring. Miz was first to his feet, but Riley tackled him hard to the mat and followed with an emphatic spinebuster for a two count. Miz quickly regained control and slowly went for the Reality Check, but Riley countered part two with a backslide. Riley secured Miz's shoulders to the mat and scored a surprise three count for the win.

WINNER: Riley at 9:12.

- John Cena confronted Vince McMahon and after a lively chat, McMahon reinstated CM Punk with the stipulation that if Cena loses the title belt to Punk, he's fired.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 07 2011, 01:14 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51250.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Aggressive start to the match, then Kidd rammed Yoshi into the ringpost and they cut to break three minutes in.

Back from break, Grisham brought up Punk's mission against WWE and attempting to take the WWE Title out of WWE. Regal said they're similar in that they're villains, but Punk could pull it off because...pause for Grisham to add a plug...Punk doesn't have the vices and demons that held him back during his career. The answer in a creatively-sound company would have been "because Punk is capable of winning a big match on a big stage that I couldn't accomplish." Following up, Grisham referenced WWE's version of Montreal Screwjob that Bret Hart wanted to take the WWE Title out of WWE, but "that didn't work out." Meanwhile, Yoshi made a spirited comeback eight minutes in, but Kidd came back with a snap neckbreaker/suplex. It was good for the win, making Kidd and Yoshi even at one a piece in their two-week series. Regal said this action is what they need more of in WWE.

WINNER: Kidd at 9:09. Fine follow-up to last week's contest.

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG

Early in the match, Regal described Bryan's pedigree starting with Shawn Michaels and including himself helping guide Bryan's career. Titus and Bateman locked up before Titus landed a knock-down clothesline after a taunt of "Welcome back, Bateman." Grisham swung the talk back to winning & losing matches, noting Bateman can silence questions about whether he belongs on this season by winning matches. Titus continued to show a bit of a heel personality taunting Bateman with elbow strikes and slapping Bateman around with clubbing offense.

Young then lost control of the match and Bateman hot-tagged Bryan, who back-flipped over Young and landed a running clothesline to fire up the crowd. Bryan then climbed up top and landed a flying dive for a two count. Regal offered a solid defense of Bryan's skill level carrying him even if he's undersized. Bateman then blind-tagged himself into the match, Bryan cleared Titus off the ring apron, and Bateman dropped Young with sort of a sweeping bulldog for the pin and the win. Afterward, Titus was indignant after his team took a loss.

WINNERS: Bryan & Bateman at 6:20. They picked up the NXT4 storyline of Bateman trying to do things on his own rather than follow the lead of his Pro, Bryan, but it worked out this week. Also, a nice look at Titus as a potential heel. His in-ring work has improved and he carried himself well in a heel-for-a-week role teaming with Young.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 09 2011, 09:03 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51280.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Mathews said their personalities are completely different - Ryder likes to have a good time and Mac is all-business. Mac was the early aggressor, pounding and kicking and slapping Ryder. Stanford said some wrestlers have resentment toward Ryder because of the success of his Internet show. Mathews said Ryder has to prove himself in the ring, though. Mac became frustrated when he couldn't put away Ryder one minute in, so he rolled to the floor for a break. Ryder then surprised him with a plancha.

Back in the ring, McIntyre bailed from the ring again. Ryder took the bait and ate the ring apron as Mathews noted Mac's frustration often-times gets the best of him in terms of wins and losses. Back in the ring again, Mac began to work over Ryder while fighting his own frustration. Ryder made a comeback at 4:00 and knocked down Mac in the corner for a running Broski Boot. It was good for a two count only and Ryder began showing frustration. Ryder tried to follow with Rough Ryder, but Mac countered with a sit-out powerbomb for a close two count.

Mac sold frustration, then got a crazy look in his eyes. Mac tried to finish off Ryder with the Future Shock DDT, but Ryder countered with a quick jackknife pin for the win. Mathews noted Ryder was the more poised of the two wrestlers, which he surmised allowed Ryder to secure the win. After a replay of the finish, Ryder was shown celebrating on the stage as McIntyre warned Ryder he'll get him next time.

WINNER: Ryder at 5:25. Fine singles match. Ryder was positioned as the face, but WWE hasn't made that permanent, rendering it just a "Superstars thing." Meanwhile, McIntyre continues to be stuck in a post-Draft "frustration" program where he beats himself because he can't keep his head straight.

2 -- NATALYA vs. ALICIA FOX

Striker offered an...interesting analogy that Natalya is like Legos because she's built in sturdy pieces that makes her hard to break. Natalya took control and used Alicia's hair as a weapon against her. With the ring heavily mic'ed on Superstars, the Divas were heard trash-talking each other about their hair. They cut to break with Natalya in control.

Back from break, still more talk about the hair with Alicia in control. "Watch the hair!" ref Nunzio instructed the Divas. Jack Korpela filled time discussing Divas champ Kelly Kelly vs. Brie Bella at the PPV as Alicia continued to risk a DQ by using the ropes to wear down Natalya and breaking just before a five count. Korpela also noted Natalya deserves another Divas Title shot. At 7:30, Striker said he's excited for a lengthy Divas match because they don't get to see much action from "this genre" on a regular basis.

"Watch the hair!" Nunzio reprimanded Alicia again. The hair distraction finally gave Natalya an opening to make her comeback. Natalya scored multiple nearfalls as the announcers talked up Alicia's resiliency. Alicia then escaped the Sharpshooter and scored a quick pin on Natalya to score a surprise win. Striker talked up the match before they went to a hair-themed replay of the match action.

WINNER: Alicia at 9:25. Based on the main focus of this match, it has to lead to a hair vs. hair match. Striker gets the special referee gig. Solid action in a near-ten-minute match.

3 -- WADE BARRETT vs. DON GONZALES

Barrett taunted ol' Don to begin the match, prompting a slap to the face from Don. Barrett, irate, pounded Don to the ground and landed multiple punches to the face while risking a DQ by barely breaking before a five count. Barrett then nailed a big boot to the face as the announcers continued to focus on Barrett for ditching The Corre. Striker said Corre is yesterday's news and Barrett is no longer "being held back." Barrett cut off a brief comeback attempt from Don before nailing Wasteland for the win. Striker hyped Barrett's inclusion in the MITB ladder match and said he's on his way to a potential title shot opportunity.

WINNER: Barrett at 2:18. Good use of a squash match to re-focus on Barrett as a singles wrestler. Too bad no one will see this, as it would have been more effective on Smackdown to rebuild Barrett post-Corre and abysmal IC Title run.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 09 2011, 09:10 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51284.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - CRIMSON vs. BOBBY ROODE - Bound For Glory Series Match

Right off the bat, Crimson hit a shoulder block that led Roode to favor his arm. Not long thereafter, Crimson hit some shoulder blocks to hurt Roode further.

Roode managed to fight back briefly but Crimson caught him attempting a floatover and guillotined him onto the top rope. As Roode was staggered, Crimson nailed another shoulder block to knock Roode to the apron.

As Roode got to his feet, Crimson suplexed him over the top rope into a sit down powerbomb for a near fall. Crimson earned another near fall moments later with some big knees out of a cravat before getting a third 2 count off of a T-Bone Suplex.

Crimson threw Roode into the corner but Bobby regained momentum at 3:00 with a nice reverse into a throw. Still favoring his shoulder, Roode fought back with some big right hands into a Double R Spinebuster for a two count.

Crimson tried to roll him up not long after, but Roode countered into a Fujiwara armbar that caused Crimson to scramble to the bottom rope. When he got back up, Crimson attempted his Red Sky powerbomb finishing move but Roode floated over.

But Crimson wasn't fooled and he whipped Roode hard into the corner, shoulder first. When he staggered back out, Crimson hit the Red Sky Bomb for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: CRIMSON in 4:40 to earn 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

2 - JACK EVANS vs. JESSE SORENSEN vs. ANTHONY NESE - X Division Contract Series Match

The crowd started a "Jack" chant before it broke out into some high-paced action. Jack Evans eventually broke up a pinfall with a springboard splash and then hit a front flip drop kick onto Sorensen.

Nese hit a clothesline on Evans before Sorensen kicked him out to ringside. Nese hit a big flying flip onto Sorensen. While both men were recovering, Evans hit a 450 splash over the top rope onto both men.

Nese is the powerhouse of the trio while Evans is the pure high flyer. Sorensen is more of a hybird between the two. Nese suplexed Sorensen into a pin but Evans hit a standing backflip to break up the pin.

A moment later, Sorensen set Evans on the top turnbuckle and appeared to attempt a Frankensteiner. However, Evans threw him off. Nese then climbed up but Evans threw him down too.

With Nese down in the ring, Evans hit what looked like an unbelievable double flip senton that Tenay called a Corkscrew 630 and that earned him the pinfall victory.

WINNER: JACK EVANS at 5:45 to earn a shot at a TNA contract at Destination X

3- ODB & JACKIE vs. VELVET SKY - Handicap Match

If Velvet wins, ODB and Jackie are never allowed back in the Impact Zone. At the start, Velvet was in complete control. After a Velvet Bulldog on ODB, Jackie finally returned to the ring and elbowed Velvet in the head from behind.

ODB and Jackie double teamed Velvet for a while before Velvet fought back and dumped ODB to ringside. Velvet hit a powerslam on Jackie for a near fall that ODB got back to make the save on just in time.

After that, Jackie and ODB got back in control and ODB eventually climbed onto the ring apron to establish the tag team aspect of the Handicap Match. Jackie and ODB traded tags before Velvet managed to counter when both women went for a tag team back drop off of an Irish whip by kicking ODB in the face.

Not long afterwards, ODB went to hit Velvet Sky with a Steel Chair. However, Velvet ducked and ODB hit Jackie in the face by accident. This allowed Velvet to kick ODB in the knee through the chair and that knocked her out to ringside.

Alone with Jackie, Velvet hit a DDT on Jackie for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: VELVET SKY in 5:15 to banish ODB & Jackie from the Impact Zone

4- A.J. STYLES vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. JERRY LYNN vs. ROB VAN DAM - Four Corners Match

Jerry Lynn made an early blind tag into the match on RVD. Daniels and Lynn squared off and Daniels had the early edge with a nice drop kick. But Lynn countered with a whirling head scissors that tossed Daniels into the corner.

A.J. tagged himself in and Styles and Lynn went toe to toe. Nice catch style wrestling that culminated in a Lynn roll through for a two count. Lynn still looks pretty good despite his age.

The crowd chanted for RVD and Styles went over to tag him in at Lynn's behest. Van Dam posed while Taz complained about Styles willingly leaving the match.

Once Van Dam and Lynn got going, they had another great set of back and forth counters that resulted in another draw. After they both nodded, Daniels tagged himself in at Lynn's expense and clotheslined RVD down.

Daniels had the early control but RVD took the edge at 3:30 with a standing moonsault that he quickly turned into Rolling Thunder. It wasn't long thereafter that Daniels tried to springboard over onto RVD but got a big kick to the chest for his efforts.

Both A.J. and Jerry Lynn tagged in and Lynn eventually hit a top rope head scissors on Styles. The momentum threw Styles across the ring, which allowed Daniels to tag in. He hit a big boot on Lynn for a near fall that RVD had to break up.

However, A.J. surprised him with a big springboard flying elbow. Styles then went for his backflip DDT, but Jerry Lynn countered and suplexed Styles stomach-first into the top rope and hurled him onto the floor.

Daniels and Lynn continued to fight in the ring and Daniels had the edge. With Lynn down, he went for the B-M-E, but Lynn managed to move. Daniels landed on his feet and drove Lynn into the corner, where RVD managed to tag himself in and Lynn out.

This proved to be very important, as Daniels went for the Angel's Wings, only to see Lynn counter it into a slam. With Lynn unaware that RVD had tagged in, he laid exhausted a few feet from Daniels. While Lynn was oblivious, Van Dam hit the Five Star Frog Splash onto Daniels and pulled out the three count before Lynn could break it up.

WINNER: ROB VAN DAM in 7:10

5- MATT MORGAN & JAMES STORM vs. DEVON & THE POPE - Bound For Glory Series Match

Reminder: The points only go to the winner of the fall, not the winning team. Storm and Devon started off first in the ring and Storm was in control for most of the first minute, getting a near fall.

While in his corner, Morgan blind tagged himself in on Storm. Morgan nailed a big bodyslam on Devon for a two count before throwing Devon back into their corner to go for his rapid-fire elbows. However, Storm tagged himself in as a comeback to Morgan's earlier blind tag.

This allowed Devon to make a comeback and he eventually tagged in Pope, who had some momentum on Storm. However, when Storm got back up, Pope quickly tagged in Devon and slid out of the ring.

Storm hit a few clotheslines on Devon before reluctantly tagging in Morgan. Morgan his his rapid fire elbows on Devon in a neutral corner before a side slam earned him a two count.

Storm was tagged back in and hit a flying forearm. But Devon countered at 3:45 and managed to make a hot tag to Pope. Pope hit a flying forearm and an inverted Atomic Drop on Storm before knocking Morgan to ringside with a drop kick.

Storm fought back after some mounted punches in the corner by hitting a Backstabber for what would have been a pinfall. However, Morgan broke up the pin, not wanting to lose BFG Series points to his tag partner. Devon attacked both of them while they were arguing and knocked Morgan to ringside.

Morgan laid clutching his knee on the floor and the ref bailed to check on him. While this was going on, Pope took Storm's title belt and bashed him in the head with the gold. As Pope posed over an unconscious Storm, Devon exhaustedly struggled to the apron.

But instead of taking the pinfall for himself after cheating, Pope tagged in Devon and gave him the pin over the downed Storm. Devon wasn't aware that Pope had cheated.

WINNER: DEVON in 5:50 to earn 7 Bound For Glory Series Points

6- KURT ANGLE vs. BULLY RAY, ABYSS, SCOTT STEINER & GUNNER - Handicap Match

Scott Steiner attacked him right away and the bell rang. Steiner threw Kurt into the corner, but found himself suplexed out of his boots. Steiner managed to tag in Ray after recovering with a clothesline.

Ray came in talking trash. "Jarrett says hello from Mexico" was one of his lines. Ray slapped Angle on the chest and went for the Bubba Bomb, but Angle countered it into another suplex.

Ray rolled over to tag Gunner in, who fared as poorly as his teammates. Angle hit a big suplex and a snap suplex and then tossed Gunner back into his corner. "He just punked Gunner!" said Taz.

Abyss was in next and he went for the chokeslam, but Kurt floated over and rolled into an Ankle Lock. At that point, Immortal charged the ring and broke up the hold and Immortal finally took control after Angle held his own for so long.

Rapid tags ensued with Steiner, Gunner and Abyss all getting in some offense and making pinfall attempts. After slamming Angle's face into Ray's waiting boot, Abyss was in next.

Abyss hit a big powerslam onto Angle and Ray came in with his steel chain. As Ray stood with the chain in his hand, out came Mr. Anderson. Bully Ray stared him down and Angle snuck in to hit the Angle Slam on Ray.

Anderson climbed up on the apron to join Angle's corner and got the hot tag. He came out like a house of fire on Immortal and took every man down before coming up to Ray and setting him up for the Mic Check.

But then he pushed him off and picked up Kurt Angle and hit the Mic Check on him instead. As Immortal stared on in disbelief, Anderson dragged Angle into the corner and tagged him back in.

Bully Ray immediately dove onto Angle for the pinfall victory.

WINNERS: IMMORTAL in 5:50
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 10 2011, 10:19 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51312.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE vs. DANIEL BRYAN & EZEKIEL JACKSON

The announcers were shown on camera during Cody’s entrance, and Booker was once again given a bag by his bag men. During the opening minute they gave the WWE’s Twitter handle and implored fans to use #Smackdown. Bryan tagged out to Jackson quickly, and he manhandled DiBiase. Teddy was thrown out of the ring and Zeke knocked Rhodes off the apron. Bryan dove through the ropes and took out both Rhodes and DiBiase. They went to break at 1:36 of the match.

Back at 5:31 of the contest. Bryan was belting Rhodes with kicks in the corner, much to the delight of the Tucson crowd. Rhodes caught Bryan in the corner, however, and delivered an Alabama Slam for two. Booker still doesn’t know what a sidewalk slam is. DiBiase tagged in and worked Bryan over for a bit. For the record, Cole picked Barrett to win the MITB and Booker and Mathews chose Sin Cara. Eventually, Jackson got tired of seeing Bryan take the brunt of the punishment and interfered illegally. At 9:23, Jackson tagged in and cleaned house on DiBiase. The audio sweetener liked him a lot more than the live crowd did. Bodyslams for DiBiase and Rhodes. As the ref tried to get Bryan out of the ring, Rhodes gave Jackson a springboard kick and DiBiase followed up with Dream Street for the pinfall.

WINNERS: Rhodes and DiBiase, at 10:11. Good enough tag match. Surprised Jackson took the fall, but Bryan is in the MITB match and Zeke isn’t (even though he’s IC Champion).

2 – JINDER MAHAL vs. TRENT BARRETA

Believe it or not, Great Khali joined the commentators. When he spoke, Cole said his commentary sounds like Book’s. Early take-down for Barreta and a one-count. Barreta was catapulted into the corner by Mahal, who then landed a clothesline. Khali seemed to struggle with the headset. Jumping knee to the face by Mahal. Full-nelson slam finished it.

WINNER: Mahal, at 1:08. Not sure what the point of Khali on commentary was – he shouldn’t be played for comedy at this point with Mahal.

3 – TAMINA vs. AJ

AJ, accompanied by Natalya, came out to Natalya’s music. I wonder if that means they’re already ditching AJ’s theme, or if they thought Nattie’s theme would get her a better reaction. Tamina picked up AJ and put her in the corner. Alicia Fox seconded Tamina, by the way. Back elbow by Tamina put AJ down. Hard whip into the buckle by Tamina, then a running butt splash. Tamina worked the neck of AJ as Nattie got the crowd to start chanting “AJ” to get her back into it. Tamina missed a splash and AJ used the ropes to aid her in getting to her feet. Running knee to the face by AJ for two. Missed splash in the corner by Tamina, and AJ rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: AJ, at 2:28. This is such a bare-bones feud with both teams (Nattie/Kaitlyn/AJ and Tamina/Fox) trading wins back and forth. It seems to be treading water, though it’s also clear this feud is not a priority.

4 – KANE vs. MARK HENRY

Cole said the ringside WWE employees considered walking off the job tonight in fear of Mark Henry after what happened last week. That’s a nice little touch of realism that adds to Henry’s aura and takes little time and effort to get across to the fans. Henry knocked Kane down with a clothesline, but Kane went after Henry’s knee with a low dropkick. To the top went Kane, but he came down and landed in Henry’s arms. Slam by Henry for two. The two ended up trading blows in the middle of the ring two minutes into the match. Kane crushed Henry in the corner, then landed a big boot for two. Clothesline off the top by Kane, and he signaled it was time for the chokeslam. He applied the choke, but Henry broke free and headbutted Kane. World’s Strongest Slam countered and Kane chokeslammed Henry. He made the cover at 3:45, but Henry put his big leg on the bottom rope to break it up. That upset Kane, and he decided to rearrange some furniture at ringside. He set Henry up to chokeslam him through the table, but Henry broke free and drove Kane back-first into the ring post. Back in the ring, he splashed Kane for a two-count. Henry started to get angry and I’m sure Kane wouldn’t like Henry when he’s angry. Henry lifted Kane for the World’s Strongest Slam and planted him. Ref Charles Robinson registered the three-count.

WINNER: Henry, at 5:54. It was a Henry vs. Kane match, that’s for sure, but they had a good story with Henry’s rage that made up for the in-ring action.

5 – TYSON KIDD vs. SIN CARA

No manager with Kidd on this evening. Kidd took Cara down with a hammerlock early on, but Cara fought out of it. Tilt-a-whirl arm-drag by Cara, but Kidd brought Cara down head-first onto the apron to shake him up a bit. Cara got on the apron and nailed Kidd with a kick anyway, then flipped into a splash on Kidd back in the ring. Running dropkick to the head by Kidd for two. Springboard elbow-drop, but Cara got his knees up. Cara just tackled Kidd at one point and laid in the punches. That was different. Cara began his finishing sequence at about 3:10. Cara jumped off Kidd’s shoulders and rolled Kidd up for two. Cara tripped up Kidd as Tyson wanted to go to the top. Cara then went to the top and did the Spanish Fly for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 4:15. Yes, you read that right: Henry vs. Kane went nearly two minutes longer than Kidd vs. Cara. There’s no justice.

6 – HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. THE USOS

The Usos did their new tribal dance (and yelling from Jey) before the match. Quick suplex with a bridge by Jey. Slater made a blind tag and that allowed the former Corre members to take over. Gabriel came in and worked a cravat. Jimmy made a hot tag at about 2:00, and went to work on Slater. Booker said because they’re Samoans, Jimmy and Jey will end up putting on another 50 or 100 pounds. I can’t make this stuff up. Neck-breaker by Slater and Gabriel tagged in. Gabriel wanted Slater to put Jimmy in position for the 450, but Jimmy kicked Slater into the ropes, crotching Gabriel. Jey tagged in and did a splash off the top on Gabriel after Jimmy suplexed him off the top. Another win for the Usos.

WINNERS: The Usos, at 3:32. Predictably building to tension between Slater and Gabriel before MITB.

7 – RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS

Before the match could begin, Christian made his way to the ring. He joined the commentary team once the match began. Orton got the crowd behind him by dropkicking Sheamus in the corner. Sheamus went to ringside before Orton could take advantage. Back in the ring, Orton pounded him with rights and gave Sheamus a Thesz Press. They brawled to ringside and Sheamus tossed Orton into the barricade. Then, on the apron, Sheamus pushed Orton shoulder-first into the ring post. Orton crumpled to ringside and Christian went to check on him. Sheamus came down and got in the middle of them to stop Christian. Sheamus picked Orton up and sent him into the post again. They went to break about 3:10 into the main event.

Sheamus got a near-fall back from break at 5:59. Christian was back at the announce table, but without a headset on. Mathews brought up a good point: Who decides what constitutes “bad officiating” as far as Christian’s contract for his title match with Orton? Sheamus tried to land a single-arm DDT, but Orton grabbed the rope to block it. Sheamus brought the arm over the top rope and dove over the top, missing a shoulder tackle. Orton took Sheamus down and got a two-count at 8:09. Sheamus recovered and went to the top rope. He landed a shoulder tackle for two. Irish Curse back-breaker for two by Sheamus. The Irishman dropped knees down across the throat of Orton. Both the Brogue Kick and RKO missed, but Orton landed a back-breaker. He set up for the RKO, but Christian ran in and booted Orton in the head for the DQ.

WINNER: Orton, via disqualification, at 10:42.

Christian pounded away on Orton, but was then greeted by Sheamus with a Brogue Kick. Orton struck with an RKO on Sheamus. They played his music as he surveyed the landscape. They replayed the finish, then Orton posed with the belt to end things.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2011, 01:17 pm
TNA Destination X PPV Results: 7-10-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51335.shtml)
1 -- KAZARIAN vs. SAMOA JOE

Quick start to the match and they quickly found themselves on the floor, where Joe landed a knockdown clothesline before high-fiving fans ringside. Joe, fired up, stalked Kazarian, who came back with forearm smashes. Joe then nonchalantly stepped aside as Kaz tried a turnaround splash from the ring apron, causing Kaz to eat the floor.

Back in the ring, Joe ripped into Kaz with strikes before leaning on Kaz with his boot to wash his face. Joe continued to destroy Kaz with signature offense before Kaz hip-tossed Joe to escape a rear naked choke. Joe came back with a hard knockdown clothesline, though, and resumed control of the action. Joe attempted a Musclebuster, but Kaz fought him off and landed a springboard dropkick that put both men on the mat.

At 5:00, they came to their feet trading bombs. Joe mainly no-sold before landing multiple forearm strikes. Kaz caught him off the ropes, though, and scoopslammed Joe before executing a springboard Tornado DDT for a two count. Tenay noted Joe is currently in the BFG Series, but Kaz is not in the Series, so the match doesn't count for standings. The crowd tried to rally behind Joe, who found himself up top. Kaz teased the Flux Capacitor, but Joe blocked and punted Kaz to the floor. Joe then flew through the ropes with a suicide dive/elbow smash that knocked both men to the floor.

Back in the ring, Joe and Kaz teased finishing moves before Joe nailed a powerbomb into STF center ring. Kaz fought the hold and eventually bit his way out of the hold. Kaz followed with a dropkick sending Joe to the corner, but Joe countered a corner splash with an E. Honda-style frontslam. "Joe, Joe, Joe" chant as he stalked Kazarian for the rear naked choke. Kaz slumped down to the mat, then Joe leaned back to trap Kaz center-ring. Kaz faded a bit, but managed to grab the bottom rope for a break. Joe started arguing with ref Earl Hebner, who tried stealing the spotlight arguing with Joe. The argument gave Kaz an opening to quickly roll up Joe for a three count out of nowhere. Post-match: The camera zoomed in on Joe frothing at the mouth and selling shock over the loss. Kaz was shown ringside satisfied with a win by the skin of his teeth. They went to a replay of the high points in the match

WINNER: Kaz at 11:19. Standard Even-Steven booking where Joe completely dominated the match before Kaz snuck out a sudden victory. Good action throughout and the display of signature moves from Joe was suitable for a "High School Reunion" type PPV event. (**3/4)

2 -- DOUG WILLIAMS (w/British Invasion) vs. MARK HASKINS
The announcers stressed Williams bringing a "ground and pound" style to the X Division last year that allowed him to keep the title throughout the year. After a series of nearfalls for each man, Haskins scored a too-close-for-comfort-nearfall and Williams bailed to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Haskins continued to frustrate Williams, who found himself on the floor again. Williams used Haskins's over-aggression against him to whip Haskins back-first across the ring apron to resume control of the action.
 
Back in the ring, Williams stretched Haskins with a bow & arrow submission followed by a modified Gory Stretch. The action moved up top, where Haskins knocked Williams to the mat before executing a dropkick. The two men then came to their feet for a standing exchange. Haskins won the exchange before executing high-flying offense as part of his comeback. The crowd popped when Williams teased the Chaos Theory, but Haskins escaped and executed a Diamond Cutter/RKO for a nearfall. Haskins tried to follow with a top-rope move, but slipped. The crowd booed, then he went up top again and missed with a Shooting Star Press. Williams followed right up with a roll-up for the win. Post-match: Williams started to leave the ring, but returned to the ring to shake Haskins's hand.
 
WINNER: Williams at 7:42. The crowd had no emotional investment in Haskins, so they ended up cheering for the heel "teacher" over the unknown "student." Haskins showed flashes of promise in the ring, but there wasn't enough to gauge his potential for TNA. (*1/2)

3 -- TV champion ERIC YOUNG & SHARK BOY vs. GENERATION ME (JEREMY & MAX BUCK)
Tenay and Borash recapped the Prince Brotherhood Justice era for Young Boy and recent issues between GenMe, which should make for an interesting match-up. Young and Shark spent the first minute trying to figure out who should start the match. Shark finally started things off and quickly took advantage on LittleMe Jeremy. Young tagged in and lost control, allowing BigMe Max to tag into the match. Young and Max exchanged offense, countered each other, and did other assorted fast-paced things before Young landed an enziguiri. Shark then re-entered and lost control, allowing GenMe to isolate Shark.
 
Suddenly, Young was in a different outfit, which inspired Shark to break free and hot-tag Young. The action broke down and Jeremy hit a combination of moves on Shark to clear him to the outside. Max scored a close nearfall on Young back in the ring, then the action broke down inside the ring again. Young then hit a wheelbarrow jawbreaker of sorts on Max and it was good for the win.
 
WINNERS: Young and Shark Boy at 7:22. The scheduled outcome doesn't say much about the X Division that GenMe - who were representing the "division" with Kendrick on TV the past three months - lost to a comedy team the announcers said were teaming together for the first time. Aside from that, a "feel good" match for the live crowd. (*)
 
4 -- ROBBIE E. (w/Cookie) vs. ALEX SHELLEY vs. SHANNON MOORE vs. AMAZING RED -- Ultimate X match -- #1 contender match to the X Division Title
Lots of flips and flops early on. Robbie teased an early climb to the red "X" hanging atop the structure before Red yanked him down to the mat. Shelley was the next wrestler to tease a climb, but Robbie yanked him down. Cookie a/k/a Vickie Guerrero screamed and shouted at Robbie to start climbing, but Red distracted him. Robbie then distracted himself posing for the hard camera, allowing Shannon to trap Robbie on the floor. Red, Moore, and Shelley then did some overly-choreographed moves in the ring before Robbie re-entered and took advantage of his size advantage to take control again. Red suddenly clocked Robbie with multiple spin kicks before splashing Shannon and Shelley on the floor. Robbie tried to climb the structure again, but Red dropkicked him in mid-air to knock both men down to the mat.
 
For their next trick, Moore re-entered the ring and climbed all the way to the top of the structure. Moore's Mohawk was nearly touching the ceiling. Meanwhile, Cookie was trying to hold Shelley in the corner to prevent him from climbing. Shelley had to sell forever as Moore and Red started racing toward the middle of the structure. Moore got to the middle and stepped down to the center of the criss-crossed cables to stomp Red down to the mat. Shelley finally escaped Cookie and reached the middle to kick Moore down to the mat. Shelley sat on the X and unhooked it, which gave him the win.
 
WINNER: Shelley at 10:37 to become #1 contender to the X Division Title. The first-half featured typical overly-choreographed spots and some awkwardness before the match improved in the second-half building to a climax.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2011, 01:19 pm
5  -- ROB VAN DAM vs. JERRY LYNN
Borash took control of the commentary to recap Lynn's career and discuss Lynn having some resentment toward RVD going back to their '90s feud and using the matches to advance their respective careers. There was discussion about the performance aspect of their matches, and nothing about who won or lost more matches. The wrestlers squared off with each other and avoided locking up as Tenay recapped this match being scheduled to happen at Hardcore Justice last year. Borash talked about his Forever Hardcore documentary and continued to talk up the RVD-Lynn series from ECW.
 
At 5:00, Lynn and RVD had that same exchange from Impact countering and avoiding each other's signature moves before Lynn sold frustration as they came to a standstill. RVD flashed that cocky smile toward Lynn and followed with a spin kick that knocked Lynn to the floor. RVD teased a flying move, but Lynn backed away to avoid. RVD then cockily invited Lynn back into the ring for a handshake. Lynn accepted, then threw RVD over the top rope into the guardrail. Lynn mocked RVD's signature gestures before inviting RVD back into the ring.
 
Back in the ring, Lynn won an exchange with a German Suplex with a bridge for a two count. Lynn then settled into a chinlock as RVD reached out looking for air. RVD fired back with a big spin kick that sent Lynn flying to the floor. RVD followed on the outside with signature offense to start wearing down Lynn. Back in the ring, RVD landed a slingshot legdrop before measuring Lynn for a Five-Star. Lynn hopped to his feet, though, and shoved RVD off the top rope into the guardrail on the floor.
 
Lynn rolled RVD back into the ring, then picked up a steel chair on the floor. Hebner reprimanded Lynn, who teased using it before they did a spot where Lynn countered RVD's counter to leg drop RVD into the chair. Lynn scored a two count and RVD came up bleeding from the forehead. Lynn then grabbed another chair as the camera zoomed in on RVD having a cut on his eyebrow. They set up another chair spot where Lynn executed a sunset flip bomb that sent RVD into the chair for a two count. That was Lynn's last gasp as RVD came back with a roundhouse kick sending the chair into Lynn's face. RVD followed right up with the Five-Star Frogsplash for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: RVD at 16:52. Right at or slightly above expectations for RVD vs. Lynn in 2011. Good sequences and a decent story to the match (compared to the rest of the PPV), plus RVD looked more inspired than he has in past TNA matches where he's obviously been going through the motions. (***1/4)

6 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. ZEMA ION vs. LOW-KI vs. JACK EVANS -- four-way TNA contract match
 
Low-Ki asserted himself early in the match before Evans unleashed high-flying offense as Borash noted Evans was trending on Twitter during Impact on Thursday. Aries then did sort of a fingernail scrape of doom splash attack on all three men before all three men kicked him in the head to clear Aries to the floor. Aries re-entered moments later leading to various sequences involving all four.
 
Aries and Ki then came face-to-face to jaw with each other before applying submission holds on the other two opponents in each other's faces. Good sequence before it came down to Aries and Ki again. Aries put a finger in Ki's face and Ki responded with a hard chop to the chest. Aries responded, prompting a standing exchange. Ki had a bridge pin, but Evans came out of nowhere with a sick splash on Ki to break up the pin. More four-way sequences before Ki took a dive to the outside. Evans tried a splash on Ki, but Ion yanked down the ropes to send Evans flying to the outside. Ion tried to fly on Ki, but Aries cut him off with a mid-ring clothesline for a two count. More four-way sequences ensued with an added level of intensity and all four men found themselves on the mat. The crowd chanted, "Sign them all," as Aries tried a pin attempt on all three opponents, to no success.
 
At 11:00, Aries and Ion had a standing exchange before Aries delivered a neckbreaker across the middle rope. Aries tried a top-rope move, but Ki executed a running cartwheel into an enzuigiri knocking Aries off the top to the mat for a nearfall. Ki then went up top, but Evans cut him off with a super top-rope huracanrana for a two count. Evans called for the 630 splash, but Ion knocked him off the top. Ion then nailed a 450 Splash on Ki, but Aries broke up a pin. Evans then tried the 630 Splash on Ki, but Ki got his knees up. Aries followed with lightning kicks on everyone before dropping Ki with a brainbuster suplex. Aries made the cover and it was good for the win. Aries gets the contract. Post-match: The crowd chanted, "Sign them all," as Aries's music played and they went to a replay of various high points in the match.
 
WINNER: Aries at 13:32. Amazing display of athleticism. Aries was the star, Evans is so charismatic and would be a valuable asset for any national promotion, Ion was impressive, and Low-Ki showed what WWE missed out on. Multiple-man matches are over-played, but this worked well as opposed to the Ultimate X match. (***3/4)

7 -- X Division champion ABYSS vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- X Division Title match
 
They went for comedy early on with Kendrick attempting a flying cross-body, only to have Abyss just stand there like a brick wall, causing Kendrick to fall to the mat. Abyss continued to toy with Kendrick as TNA continued to send a message through the commentary that X Division wrestlers are novelty acts who can't hang in the "main event" scene and can't match up with a heavyweight like Abyss. Abyss took his time working over Kendrick while posing for the camera. Abyss then picked up his book and started thumbing through the pages for additional instructions. Kendrick tried body shots once Abyss turned around, but Abyss no-sold and beat him to a pulp in the corner. Abyss looked for more wisdom from the book while Kendrick tried to find his feet.
 
Kendrick suddenly landed a desperation shot to the face that opened up Abyss, who slowly turned around once he saw blood coming down from his forehead. Kendrick then used Abyss's anger against him to clear Abyss to the floor. Kendrick followed with a suicide dive on the floor, then continued to hold the advantage back in the ring. Kendrick wanted Sliced Bread #2, but Abyss caught Kendrick on the top turnbuckle and countered with the Shock Treatment. Kendrick kicked out of a pin attempt, though. Kendrick tried to fight back with gut shots before Hebner was bumped in the corner. Kendrick then hit Sliced Bread, but the ref was down and Kendrick scored a visual three count.
 
On cue, Eric Bischoff strutted down to the ring to boos. Bischoff shouted at Kendrick that he should fire him. Kendrick acted tormented, then landed a right hand that floored Bischoff. Suddenly, Immortal stormed the ring. Some X Division scrubs then hit the ring and Bully Ray started throwing haymakers. Immortal easily cleared the ring before Kendrick found himself alone in the ring. The next wave of X Division scrubs then hit the ring, ending the temporary feuds that were made up for the show. Eventually, Abyss and Kendrick were left alone in the ring. Kendrick scored a quick roll-up and Hebner counted a three from outside the ring to give Kendrick the win.
 
Post-match: Kendrick celebrated with the X Division wrestlers as Immortal stood dumbfounded on the stage. Abyss sat dejected on the ring apron as Borash offered some words about the X Title going back to a "true X Division wrestler," whatever that means. Some confetti fell to the ring as Kendrick's victory was celebrated. Abyss eventually made his way to the stage and Ray asked him what happened out there. Abyss shoved down Ray, whose eyes bugged out as Abyss walked to the back, with Ray dumbfounded.

WINNER: Kendrick at 10:16 to capture the X Division Title. It wouldn't be a TNA PPV without an overbooked, overcomplicated, ref-bump title match. The match story continued the inept TV build-up of the three X Division wrestlers equaling one "normal" wrestler and the "X Division brand" being comprised of brain-sharing individuals who don't have individual identities. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2011, 01:23 pm
8 -- A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS
 
A handshake started the match as Borash described each man's TNA history and their friendship/mutual respect. Styles and Daniels came to an early standstill before slapping hands to show respect. Lots of counters and counters to the counters early on before Daniels mounted some sustained offense following a leaping dive over the top rope onto Styles on the floor. The match seesawed back to Styles before Daniels yanked Styles across the ring apron to regain control. The crowd seemed to be a bit worn out by this point. At 17:30, Daniels landed a Death Valley Driver for a close two count. Styles then mounted a big comeback before slipping on the top rope attempting a springboard dive. Daniels tried to take advantage with a pin, but Styles kicked out.
 
At 20:00, both men found themselves on the mat following a float-over dropkick that seemed to affect both men. Daniels was up a split-second before Styles, who caught Daniels in the corner for a spinning sit-out driver out of the torture rack position for a nearfall. Daniels came back with an STO into the Koji Clutch. Styles managed to reach his feet to break the hold, then both men tumbled through the ropes to the ring apron. Back in the ring, Daniels back-flipped over Styles, who back-flipped over Daniels into his signature springboard reverse DDT for a nearfall.
 
At 25:00, Daniels knocked down Styles, who appeared to be woozy from a blow to the back of the head or being blown up. Daniels then tried the BME, but Styles got his knees up. Styles followed with the Clash center-ring, but Daniels kicked out in time. Tenay said they have seen everything but a three count from Styles and Daniels. Styles regrouped, went to the ring apron for a springboard move, and missed when Daniels got his knees up. Daniels followed with Angel's Wings, but Styles kicked out in time. Daniels sold shock before evaluating what he has to do next.
 
At 27:30, Daniels went up top, but Styles crotched him. Styles then attempted a superplex, but Daniels blocked and set up for a Super Angel's Wings. Styles back-dropped Daniels to the mat, though, and positioned himself for the Spiral Tap, which the crowd chanted for. Styles connected center-ring and made the cover to pick up the win over Daniels. Borash said it was the very move Styles used to become the first-ever X Division champion over nine years ago.
 
Post-match: After a highlight package on the match aired, they cut back to the ring to show Daniels fighting a lot of different emotions. Styles offered a handshake, but Daniels turned away to sell inner turmoil. Daniels then returned to center-ring for a handshake as Tenay said Styles proved tonight he's the best-ever in the X Division. They signed off ten minutes before the top of the hour with Styles standing tall in the ring.
 
WINNER: Styles at 28:28. Strong conclusion after a methodical start and some off-moments around the 20:00ish mark. The match was lengthy trying to be epic, but the problem is there was never really a sense of the "match could end at any point" until the final few minutes, which caused the audience to sit on their hands for a while. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 13 2011, 01:16 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-11-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51351.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

Note: The majority of the program was lots of talk with C.M. Punk taking the center stage with approximately 36 minutes of conversation. The MitB promo during the middle of the show, which lead to the third match of the night was also time-consuming so there wasn't a whole lot of in-ring action going on.

1 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) -- non-title handicap match

The commentary was interesting to hear what lines McMahon was feeding Cole. Cena easily cleared Mike to the outside and Nexus regrouped. They cut to break 1:40 in. Cole's commentary essentially amounted to (1) McMahon is a benevolent negotiator and (2) he wants to negotiate a deal with Punk so the title will stay in WWE no matter who wins at MITB. Of course, if it doesn't matter who wins and if Cena will just get himself re-hired if he gets fired, why should anyone buy a PPV to see the match? They have to resolve that issue on this show.

Back live, Mike was working on Cena. The other part of commentary was Lawler questioning why McMahon wouldn't put his full faith in Cena, who has represented the company well. Cole said it's McMahon trying to insure the health of the company and WWE Title, with its 50-year-lineage. Cole said it would be like taking away the U.S. flag from the U.S. Lawler said out of the 40 wrestlers who have held the WWE Title, Cena has represented the company better than everyone else. Cole said the point is McMahon wouldn't leave the fate of the company in the hands of Bruno, Triple H, Austin, or Rock. Cole said he believes McMahon will give Punk anything he wants to keep him in WWE, just to keep the title in WWE.

Cena made his standard comeback at 7:45 and set up Mike for the Attitude Adjustment, but Otunga interrupted the move. Mike then scored a nearfall, drawing frustration from Otunga. Meanwhile, Cole equated the "crisis" of Punk potentially taking the title out of WWE to WCW threatening WWE in the '90s. Cena then came off the top with a guillotine leg drop on Mike before putting him in the STF. Otunga broke it up just before Mike tapped, giving Nexus fresh life. Cena quickly ended that by dropping Mike with the AA, tossing Otunga over the top rope, and pinning Mike for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 9:58.

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY vs. MELINA -- non-title match

Back from break, Melina was already in the ring for the next match and the Bella Twins were on commentary to discuss Kelly vs. Brie for the Divas Title at the PPV. Kelly dominated this nearly start to finish before finishing off Melina less than two minutes in. Afterward, the Bellas entered the ring to run down Kelly. Kelly had enough and jumped the Bellas, who got the upper hand before Eve ran down. The Bellas KO'ed Eve, then left the ring standing tall.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:42. Basic booking to set up Kelly getting revenge on the Bellas at the PPV.

3 -- THE MIZ & JACK SWAGGER & R-TRUTH vs. ALEX RILEY & EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON -- six-man tag match

Back live, the match was already in progress. It was such an important match that WWE and USA ran a video package on Burn Notice instead of the opening moments of the match. Cole offered this week's "pop culture reference of the week" that Miz is so popular that S.F. Giants closer Brian Wilson wears a Miz t-shirt underneath his jersey. Cole couldn't let the phobia stuff go and mixed up the fear of heights and spiders again. After some back-and-forth, the heels took control and they cut to another break five minutes in.

Back live, Miz and Kofi were battling in the ring. More like the heels had Kofi isolated and were trading tags working him over as the faces begged for a tag from the ring apron. Kofi eventually broke free with a double DDT on Truth and Swagger before hot-tagging Riley. Riley speared Swagger, then fired himself up, but the crowd wasn't buying it. Riley was then blind-sided by Truth, but Riley fought off the heels and eventually dropped Swagger with a spear for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Miz dropped Riley with Skullcrushing Finale, setting off a series of sneak attacks by everyone. Bourne wanted Air Bourne on Truth, but Del Rio came out of nowhere to smash Bourne. Del Rio then used a ladder to clear the ring of everyone in the MITB ladder match. Del Rio's music played and he stood tall in the ring as his music played.

WINNERS: Riley & Bourne & Kofi at 10:45. As Miz has cooled off, so has Riley's face reaction. WWE is still pushing him hard and trying to protect him, but it will take time for the audience to truly take hold of Riley. The end result was positioning Del Rio as the favorite to win MITB and, to the larger goal, trying to make him look like a legit heel threat looking ahead to next week post-MITB.

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & DREW MCINTYRE vs. BIG SHOW -- handicap match

Back live, Ziggler's music was still playing. Big Show then came out to a standard reaction to face the mid-card heels. They went to a replay from two weeks ago when Henry crushed Show with a cage door to send Show flying to the floor. Lawler then plugged Show vs. Henry at the PPV while incorporating some more phobia talk. The bell sounded and Show started knocking around the opposition. Ziggler decided to bail to ringside before Show chucked McIntyre over the top rope. On the floor, Show smashed McIntyre into a guardrail.

Suddenly, the bell sounded as Show beat McIntyre up the entrance ramp to the stage. The announcers completely no-sold the bell and the match result as Show chucked Mac into the WWE logo on the stage. Show followed with a chokeslam attempt as Mark Henry came running toward Show, causing all three men to go flying off the stage through a prop table below. That didn't appear to go as planned. Or, it was supposed to look awkward. After a replay of the spot, they showed Show and Henry flat on their backs next to each other selling the effects. Referees came over to check on Henry and Show as no one seemed to be concerned about the condition of poor McIntyre. They cut to break with Lawler blandly saying both men are hurt.

WINNER: No Contest at 1:54. The bigger question was whether this was a write-off for McIntyre, who was completely taken apart here. Show and Henry KO'ing each other probably wasn't the right tone for their match on the PPV lead-in show. Someone needed to be standing tall leading to the PPV.

BONUS!!!

After Raw went off the air, John Cena made a few references to the Red Sox/Bruins-Yankees promo and challenged C.M. Punk to the advertised Punk vs. Cena Street Fight. Punk came back out from the entrance and Cena met him on the outside.

Bonus Dark Match: WWE champion John Cena beat C.M. Punk in a Street Fight. They fought on the outside for a while before Punk took a mic and congratulated Derek Jeter for 3,000 hits, then himself, while hitting Cena with the mic.

Punk had the advantage and began ripping monitors out of the announce table before Cena hit Punk back with a mic. Back in the ring, Punk hit Cena in the back with a chair. Punk did a lot of taunting to Cena's dad and wife, who were sitting ringside for the night. Eventually, Cena's dad hit Cena in the face, sending him into the ring. Cena then covered him for the three count and the win.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 14 2011, 01:47 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51382.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Daniel Bryan) vs. TITUS YOUNG vs. DARREN YOUNG -- triple threat elimination match

Grisham brought up Bateman's claim he would "save the show" as Bateman and Young double-teamed O'Neil. They randomly cut to a shot of Bryan standing ringside as Bateman's Pro. Regal thanked Bryan for dressing up before discussing his personal training with Bryan, which, in effect, has trickled down to Bateman. The crowd showed how invested they are in the match by chanting, "Daniel Bryan," as the heels continued to wear down Titus. They couldn't put Titus away, though, and continued to slow things down. Titus made a comeback at 5:00, but couldn't score a fall on one of the heels.

Bateman and Young eventually turned on each other and Bateman found himself on the outside. Young was alone in the ring and took Titus's sky-high bomb. Titus had a pin, but Bateman scampered back into the ring to knock Titus away. Bateman then pinned Young to eliminate him from the match. So, it's Bateman vs. O'Neil. Bateman then knocked Titus out of the ring and they cut to break.

Back on NXT, Titus was shown throwing Bateman halfway across the ring. Then again. Regal was dumbfounded trying to describe Titus's strength. Bateman then attacked Titus's left knee and began wearing down the big man. Bateman ripped off a series of chops, which fired up Titus, who responded with bigger chops to the chest for a nearfall. O'Neil followed with knockdown clotheslines and a big sidewalk slam before stalking Bateman to finish him off. O'Neil scored with a Scott Hall-style overhead slam, but Bateman kicked out of a pin attempt.

Titus went up top for an uncharacteristic high-risk move and slipped off the top rope. Bateman took advantage with a uranage-ish move, which was good for the win. Regal noted that's the mark of a good wrestler taking advantage of an opponent's slip-up. Grisham wondered why Titus went up top to begin with. After a replay of Bateman's victory, they showed Bateman and Bryan celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Bateman at 13:28. This dragged at times, but commentary helped accentuate the story trying to be told. Bateman's pseudo heel persona isn't clicking, though.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

"Yoshi, Yoshi" chant early in the match as Kidd and Yoshi exchanged offense to start the match. Kidd got the upperhand and Yoshi rolled to the floor for a breather as they cut to a break 3:30 in.

Kidd remained in-control of the match back from break as Regal noted he'd like to see a submission match between these two at some point. Yoshi then came back with a roundhouse kick that put both men on the mat. Grisham and Regal discussed both men appearing to be a step slower this week after absorbing tons of blows from each other the previous two weeks. The pace picked up with Yoshi scoring a combination of offense before Kidd came back with sustained offense.

At 10:00, Yoshi clotheslined Kidd over the top rope to the floor. Yoshi tried to follow with a suicide dive, but Kidd smashed him in the face with a leg strike. Kidd then went to the ring apron for a springboard elbow drop, but Yoshi got his knees up to block. The match then moved up top and Kidd dropped Yoshi across the top rope. Kidd then set up for a top-rope move and went for a double springboard moonsault, but Yoshi avoided and Kidd hit the mat with a thud. The one mistake cost Kidd, as Yoshi bridge-pinned Kidd moments later for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Yoshi retrieved the action figure necklace and celebrated, but Kidd blindsided Yoshi and stole the action figure leg again. Kidd bailed from the ring as Regal said he doesn't see this as the end of the feud. Yoshi demanded the leg back as the show abruptly faded to black.

WINNER: Yoshi at 11:15. Another solid effort from Kidd and Yoshi. It wasn't quite as good as match #1, but certainly better than last week's match and really built on the stories from the previous two weeks. A well-done match, despite the inherent problem of two Pros having center stage on the Rookie show. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2011, 12:43 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51427.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SANTINO vs. ZACK RYDER

Ryder was sporting his new qr code trunks from this week's YouTube episode. Early on, Stanford noted Ryder is the self-proclaimed Internet champion. The two wrestlers went back and forth early on as some vocal teens were heard chanting, "Let's go Ryder." Santino then avoided the Broski Boot in the corner before delivering a sailor's salute fist drop for a two count. Santino tried to follow with a corner move, but couldn't find his balance. Santino then comically went for another's sailor's salute, which gave Ryder an opening to avoid. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder for the win. Post-match: Stanford noted Ryder is on a bit of a roll on Superstars while Mathews focused on Santino's uncertainty costing him the match. Stanford said Ryder is climbing that ladder. On the way out, Ryder shouted his slogans to no one in particular.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:01. Fine match with Ryder picking up a little more confidence with each passing week as his popularity continues to grow on social media.

2 -- WADE BARRETT vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta was the aggressor early on, trying to bring it to Barrett, who cut him off with a front slam and hard chop to the back. Striker offered a talking point that this match is a good test for Barrett having to battle similarly-sized high-flyers in the MITB ladder match at Sunday's PPV. Barrett landed a clubbing blow that knocked Barreta clear to the floor. Then, back in the ring, Barrett lost control and accepted a flying elbow smash in the corner. Barreta followed with a twisting splash of sorts for a close two count. Barreta then knocked Barrett to the floor to continue knocking Barrett off his feet. Barreta went to the well once too often and Barrett countered a springboard maneuver into Wasteland. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Barrett at 3:18. I believe the idea was to actually enhance Barrett, not make him look weak and awkward being taken off his feet multiple times prior to pulling out a sudden victory via Wasteland.

3 -- WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) -- non-title match

The tag champs quickly took control and cleared the ring of Usos before they cut to break 1:30 into the match.

Back from break, Striker actually made it official that the bonds of Nexus and Corre have disintegrated over the past few months, but Mike and David have kept their bond as tag champs. Meanwhile, Striker and Korpela put over the WWE Title strongly. Actually, more of Korpela stressing Superstars have sacrificed their lives and families and bodies 300 days per year for pursuit of the title that Punk could be taking away from WWE on Sunday. It might have been the strongest emphasis on the value of the title in a long time.

The heels continued to work over Jimmy Uso before Jey finally took a hot tag. The action broke down before the Usos isolated Mike in the ring. Jimmy re-tagged into the match and came off the top rope with a Superfly Splash on Mike for the pin and the win. Korpela noted the Usos are right back in title contention after this non-title victory. After a replay of the Usos taking out Mike for the win, they cut back to the Usos celebrating on the way out of the ring.

WINNERS: Usos at 6:33. Basic tag match stressing the fast-rising Usos questing for the Tag Titles. It would be worth a title change to see if the Usos can succeed as the central focus of another tag division chapter.

4 -- MARYSE vs. BETH PHOENIX

Maryse was already in the ring back from the break. They switched it back to the Raw announcers to call the default main event from Monday's Raw TV taping. Maryse tried to antagonize Beth after the opening bell, so Beth quickly overpowered her. Maryse then cheated to take control before stealing Beth's headband and mocking her pose. Maryse continued to wear down Phoenix as Stanford noted both Divas want a shot at Kelly Kelly's Divas Title. After absorbing Maryse's attack, Beth came back with her Glam Slam finisher for a pin and the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 4:11. Another step closer to a Kelly vs. Beth feud on Raw.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2011, 12:56 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51429.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROBERT ROODE vs. SAMOA JOE vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO -- Bound for Glory Series Match

This included the three remaining wrestlers with zero points. Tenay said the loser of this might be eliminated from the BFG series because they're so far behind. Joe went after Roode at the start as Pope watched. Pope eventually knocked Joe out of the ring and got a near fall on Roode. He postured and played to the crowd and then hit a fistdrop off the second rope. Joe reentered and set up a Muscle Buster on Pope. Rodde broke it up and hit the fisherman's suplex into a bridge for a count. Pope broke it up. The crowd applauded the action rather than a wrestler. Roode and Pope hit each other at the same time. Joe applied a rear naked choke. Roode flipped over and positioned Joe's shoulders on the mat while he was still in the choke. The ref counted Joe's shoulders down. That was a pretty cool finish, actually. Joe, of course, got up thinking he won via tapout, but the ref informed him what happened. Joe threw a fit and yelled at the ref in protest. Several other referees ran out and jumped into the ring to try to calm him down and protect original ref, Earl Hebner. Tenay called it Joe's temper, moving away from the previously used term "Samoan temper" (which, of course, implies those darn Samoans have a short-trigger and big temper).

WINNER: Roode in 6:00. (*3/4)

2 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. SHANNON MOORE

Aries came out wearing his hot-punk faux-fur vest as the crowd chanted "Austin Aries." Tenay said the morale in the X Division locker room is at an all-time high because of "the elimination of the Xtreme Champion, as he called it, Abyss." Taz touted the "quick, crisp" action of the X Division. They need to do more with Aries, if he's going to be a new centerpiece of the X Division, than have him come out and work against a "is he a heel or is he a face" Shannon Moore in an even-steven match, minus any character-development. He's just the guy with the pink vest at this point. I assume they have something in mind, though. He definitely has an "It Factor" that is worth investing in, but his character needs a hook. Aries KO'd Moore with a chain as the ref was distracted, thus establishing firmly that he is a heel.

WINNER: Aries in 3:00.

3 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. TARA

Tara dominated early and grabbed Rayne's hair and bashed her head into the mat. Rayne came back and drove Tara's chin into her knee. Tara clotheslined Rayne seconds later, then gave her a spinning side slam. Rayne backdropped out of Tara's next move, then went on offense with a lot of screeching and yelling mixed in. Rayne then peeked inside her gift box and pulled out a tarantula in a glass case. She screamed and carefully set it down. Tara then walked up behind her and gave her the Widow's Peak finisher for the win. Tara took the tarantula out of the cage and gingerly walked to the back with the spider crawling on her hand. Tarantula's are delicate creatures and dropping it could kill it. That's what Tara told me when I met her at an all-women's indy wrestling shows two years ago this month.

WINNER: Tara in 4:00.

4 -- BRUTUS MAGNUS & DOUGLAS WILLIAMS vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (Hernandez & Anarquia w/Rosita) - No. 1 Contender Status at Stake

The Brits kick-started the match, but at 1:00 Hernandez took over on Williams. Taz and Tenay wondered if Sting was done with the clown attacks yet. Magnus hot-tagged in at 3:00. The crowd chanted "Let's Go Magnus!" He knocked Hernandez out of the ring and then worked over Anarquia. Williams and Magnus double-teamed Anarquia for a near fall broken up by Hernandez. The Brits set up a double team move. Williams hit a flying elbow to Anarquia as Magnus held him in the air. However, with the ref distracted by Rosita, Hernandez interfered and rolled Anarquia on top of Magnus for the win.

WINNERS: Mexican America in 4:00. Good, short tag match.

5 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. STING -- TNA Impact Wrestling Heavyweight Title Match

Sting's full ring entrance took place as Tenay talked about Sting's plan to even the playing field working perfectly. Borash handled the formal ring intros, Tenay said Anderson has had a chance to study all of Sting's history and that seemingly would give him an advantage, but this is a different Sting who is totally unpredictable. Sting blocked an early sunset flip attempt by Anderson. Taz said Sting is whack and nuts, but maybe also crazy like a fox. Sting went for two Stinger splashes in the corner, but Anderson kicked his legs on a second attempt. Anderson began to work over Sting's leg. Taz said that can weaken Sting's Scorpion Deathlock. After working over his legs on the mat for a couple minutes, Sting kicked himself free, then got up favoring his injured leg. Sting gained his footing as he threw some chops and a clothesline. He awkwardly lifted Anderson into the ropes, but then hit the Mic Check. Anderson kicked out of his own finisher.

The ref got knocked to the floor. Sting then applied the Scorpion Deathlock. Anderson tapped out at 7:00, but the ref was out at ringside. Ray entered and attacked Sting from behind. Tenay said Ray was the one member of Immortal that Sting's clowns didn't eliminate. Ray then held a heavy chain and threatened to hit Sting. Ray told Anderson to hold up Sting. Anderson did so. Ray wrapped the chain around his fist. The lights went out. When they came back on, there was another clown in the ring. The clown attacked Ray with the bat, then went after Anderson. The lights went out again. When they came back on, Anderson stood alone in the ring. The clown stood on the stage looking on. Sting then gave Anderson a Scorpion Deathdrop from behind. The ref returned to the ring and counted to three.

WINNER: Sting in 9:00 to capture the World Championship of Impact Wrestling. Not a good match leading up to the finishing sequence, which was very storyline oriented. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2011, 12:57 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Tiat's complete report...and boy, do I mean COMPLETE!) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51444.shtml) As always, condensed to in-ring results since the full report would take awhile to read.

1 -- Intercontinental Champion EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TED DIBIASE -- Intercontinental Championship match

Nunzio was refereeing. Jackson pushed Dibiase into the corner and smiled. DiBiase slapped him hard in the face and Jackson snapped, beating him down and tossing him into the middle of the ring where he met him with a shoulderblock for two.

Jackson clotheslined DiBiase out of the ring and followed him out, ramming his head into the apron. Booker talked about Jackson being in his Fave Five as DiBiase rammed Zeke into the ring post and dropkicked him. Cody Rhodes was shown watching from the back as DiBiase rolled Jackson back in the ring and scored two.

DiBiase beat down on Zeke in the corner. Zeke broke free and ran at DiBiase in the corner but missed and hit the turnbuckle. DiBiase hit a cool looking Cobra Clutch Russian leg sweep move that was good for two. Cole called Rhodes the Kenny Powers of the WWE for getting DiBiase back on track. Jackson hit a few running clothesline on DiBiase before clotheslining him in the corner and bodyslamming him.

Jackson went for a bodyslam that DiBiase tried to counter into Dream Street but was thrown off. Jackson bodyslammed DiBiase twice more and went for the torture rack but DiBiase struggled free. The Fortunate Son went for Dream Street again but Jackson pushed him off. Jackson locked the Torture Rack in and DiBiase tapped quickly.

WINNER: Ezekiel Jackson via submission in 3:00.

2 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. CODY RHODES

Bryan chopped Rhodes's chest in the corner. Bryan ran at Rhodes, who lifted him onto his shoulders and looked to hit an Alabama Slam. Bryan rolled him up though and went for an early LeBell lock. Rhodes scarpered out to the apron and Bryan tied him up in the ropes, kicking him in the chest. Bryan hit a running dropkick to send Rhodes to the floor as Cole put a paper bag on and began spouting Booker catchphrases.

Bryan hit a suicide dive on Rhodes as a one man 'Daniel Bryan' chant started before the break.

Rhodes hit an inverted suplex on Bryan as Smackdown returned. Rhodes put Bryan in a single-leg Boston crab. Bryan kicked him off and hit some European uppercuts. Bryan rolled up Bryan for two. Bryan ran at Rhodes in the corner but got elbowed. Rhodes taunted Bryan and got booed. Rhodes hit several knees to Bryan's chest and hit a Russian leg sweep for two.

Rhodes locked Bryan in the single-leg Boston crab again. Bryan got his arm over the ropes and the ref forced him to break it. Bryan and Rhodes traded punches in the ring with Bryan getting the upper hand and hitting a running clothesline to get the crowd behind him. Bryan hit a jawbreaker on Rhodes followed by a running knee that got two.

Bryan beat on Rhodes in the ring and was pulled off by the ref. Rhodes hit a drop toehold to send Bryan into the ropes and Cody hit his Hardcore Holly throwback kick to the wheelbarrow kick to the midsection. Rhodes followed it up with an Alabama Slam that got two. Cody ducked a clothesline and locked Bryan in ready for Cross Rhodes but Bryan managed to walk up the turnbuckle, while still in position for the finishing move, and backflip over Cody's head. Awesome.

Cody ran Bryan into the ropes and ran in after him but Bryan countered into a LeBell lock, stretching Rhodes over the top rope. The ref called for Bryan to release him but Rhodes pushed him off and onto the floor. Bryan went to the top and hit a dropkick on Rhodes for a nearfall. Bryan fired up in the corner and hit a botched running dropkick on Rhodes, Bryan completely missed with his feet.

Bryan put Rhodes on the top turnbuckle and followed him up but got crotched on the top rope. Rhodes hit a Beautiful Disaster while he was up there and got a three-count from it.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes via pinfall in 10:00.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. SIN CARA

Sheamus powered Cara into the corner to start and beat him down. Sin Cara hit a springboard hurracanrana on Sheamus followed by a few kicks to the thighs and a dropkick. Cara kicked Sheamus on his knees but Sheamus fought back. Barrett called The Corre the biggest mistake of his career.

Sheamus put Cara on the top turnbuckle but Cara kicked him off and hit a flipping armdrag takeover off the top. Sheamus hit a double axe handle on Cara to ground him again. Sheamus hit an Irish Curse backbreaker in the middle of the ring as Barrett said he should be at the top of Booker's fave five instead of Sheamus.

Cara hit a hurracanrana on Sheamus but ran into a high knee. Sheamus stretched Cara between the ropes and beat his chest viciously. Sheamus taunted the crowd, who responded in kind. Sheamus hit a running knee from the apron and roared, to great disapproval from the crowd. Sheamus wore Cara down in a headlock and hit a shoulderblock.

Cara punched his way out of another headlock. Sheamus went for a big boot but Cara dodged and Sheamus leg went over the top rope and sent him toppling to the outside. Sheamus held his knee in pain and Cara dropkicked him on the way back into the ring for two. Cara hit his Pele kick between the ropes and went for a springboard cross body but was caught in mid air. Sheamus rammed Cara into the turnbuckle and hit a fallaway slam.

Sheamus taunted the crowd some more and set up for the Celtic Cross. Cara turned it into a hurracanrana into a cover and got the surprise three count.

WINNER: Sin Cara via pinfall in 6:00.

- After the match, Sheamus looked furious as Booker said Cara may have just topped the fave five. Barrett hit the ring and hit Sheamus from behind with a big boot. Cole incorrectly called it a Brogue kick. Barrett hit Wasteland on Sheamus and taunted him, pointing up at the MITB briefcase.

4 -- ROSA MENDES (w/Alicia Fox) vs. KELLY KELLY

Kelly went for an early pin cover and got one. Rosa went for her own and got the same result. Booker talked about having a Diva's fave five as Mendes went to work on Kelly. Mathews noted Rosa's Puerto Rican background. Kelly fought out and tripped Rosa, slamming her head repeatedly into the mat.

Kelly licked her hand and slapped Rosa on the butt. Rosa ran at Kelly, who countered into a neckbreaker. Kelly ran Rosa into the turnbuckle and gave her a Rikishi-style stinkface.

Kelly went for a bulldog but Rosa pushed her off. Rosa went for a swinging neckbreaker but Kelly hit the K2 facebuster that was good for the three. Kelly celebrated in the ring after the match as Alicia looked annoyed but still applauded.

WINNER: Kelly Kelly via pinfall in 2:00.

5 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

Some nice back and forth between the two trading wristlocks. No reaction from the crowd though. Gabriel hit a running shoulderblock on Slater. Slater went for a hip toss but Gabriel countered into a leg sweep for two.

Slater hit Gabriel with a hard punch and pointed up to the briefcase like it hasn't been a cliche all night. Slater went to work on Gabriel with a headlock. Gabriel fought out and hit a spinning kick to the head of Slater. Slater ran at Gabriel in the corner but missed and ate turnbuckle. Gabriel went for the 450 splash but was intercepted by Slater, who back body dropped him off the turnbuckle and missed possibly the worst moonsault ever attempted.

Gabriel hit the 450 splash immediately after and got the pin and the win. Gabriel pointed up to the briefcase after the match as replays were shown.

WINNER: Justin Gabriel via pinfall in 3:00.

6 -- KANE vs. World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON -- non-title match

Orton beat on Kane in the corner to a big pop. Kane fought back with a throat-thrust and a big boot. Kane hit two huge running clotheslines on Orton in the corner followed by a sidewalk slam for two.

Christian slithered out to the stage to watch the match as Kane hit a diving clothesline on Orton. Kane signaled for the chokeslam and locked on a goozle but Orton escaped it and fought back with a boot in the corner followed by a running clothesline. Orton took Kane off his feet with a powerslam and fired up. Kane rolled onto the apron and Orton hit his signature spike DDT on the ropes.

Orton set up for an RKO but was pushed off by Kane. Orton stopped as he saw Christian walking closer to the ring and was clotheslined over the top by Kane, who fell out to the floor with him. Orton chased Christian around the ring as the ref continued his count. Christian splashed Orton with water from behind and Orton missed the ten count.

WINNER: Kane via count-out in 2:00.

- Orton chased Christian around the ring area. Christian ran back into the ring and Orton followed, being met with a throat thrust from Kane. Kane and Christian stomped on Orton in the corner. Kane stopped and scared Christian off. Orton gave Kane an RKO from behind but was speared instantly by Christian, who rained down punches to Orton's face. The crowd booed loudly as Christian stood over both men.

Christian got a steel chair and the World Heavyweight Championship from ringside. Christian went to clock Orton with the chair but Orton countered and kicked the chair out of Christian's hands. Orton picked up the chair to hit Christian but Captain Charisma rolled out of the ring and away from danger. Orton took the chair to Kane's back instead and blasted him with it, looking furious at Christian, who stood on the stage smirking amidst a 'Randy' chant to close out the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2011, 01:10 pm
WWE MitB PPV Results: 7-17-11 (next three posts...)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_51476.shtml)

1 -- SIN CARA vs. WADE BARRETT vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. SHEAMUS vs. CODY RHODES vs. HEATH SLATER vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. KANE -- Smackdown MITB ladder match

After a battle royal-style beginning with men trying to club each other to clear out space, they started setting up some one-on-one and three-way spots in the ring. One ladder found itself in the middle of the ring to be used as a prop early on. At 4:00, Bryan and Gabriel pulled off back-to-back flying moves on the outside. Slater then executed a twisting corkscrew plancha before Sin Cara tried to top them all with a leaping splash on Sheamus ringside. Early on, they seemed to be going for that "ooooh" reaction from the crowd rather than trying to win the match.

Sin Cara executed his top-rope finisher on Bryan to a reaction, then pointed to the briefcase, but didn't have a ladder. Sin Cara went to the outside looking for a ladder, but Barrett kicked him in the face. Barrett then took himself out when Cara ducked a clothesline and Barrett ate the ringpost. Sheamus followed with a Brogue Kick on Sin Cara before powerbombing him off the ring apron through a ladder propped up ringside. Sin Cara sold with trembling fingers as the crowd popped. Refs and medics checked on Cara to sell the move as Booker noted he tried to avoid these matches at all costs.

At 9:00, the match reset with Kane and Sheamus battling in the ring. Meanwhile, Sin Cara was stretchered away from the ringside area. So, they're down to seven. Kane teased a climb for the briefcase, but a Corre reunion dragged down Kane. Suddenly, Rhodes scaled the ladder behind everyone's backs, but Corre cut him off. Corre then cut off Bryan. All three then surveyed the scene and Barrett tried to take the lead, but Slater and Gabriel decided to yank him down and deliver a beating. Gabriel and Slater then raced up the ladder looking for the case, but Rhodes shoved both of them off the ladder.

Rhodes set up for a climb to the case, but Barrett yanked him down. More up and downs before Rhodes dropped Barrett with Cross Rhodes. Rhodes went back up the case, but Sheamus cut him off and delivered the Irish Curse backbreaker. Bryan and Sheamus then battled on the ladder, giving the pro-Bryan crowd a little tease. Kane proceeded to clean house and build some momentum before the crowd chanted, "Daniel Bryan," when Bryan re-entered the action. Slater began climbing in the background, though, and then cut off Bryan with a neckbreaker off the ladder.

At 18:00, they hit a bit of a lull with some weak false finishes and teased ladder spots that didn't materialize. Sheamus then cleaned house to breathe life back into the match. Sheamus pointed to the case and started climbing, but Kane met him up top when Sheamus had one hand on the case. Kane then goozled Sheamus and chokeslammed off the ladder onto another ladder below. Big splat and Sheamus fell to the floor. For the next chapter, the rest of the Smackdown competitors entered the ring for a mid-ring battle. Gabriel suddenly stood atop a ladder on the top turnbuckle, balanced himself, and landed a 450 splash on Kane. Big-move spots ensued in the ring before Barrett was the last man standing. Barrett went climbing, but Rhodes yanked him down and clotheslined him over the top rope.

In the background at 23:00, Bryan tried sneaking up the ladder, but Rhodes cut him off. Bryan and Rhodes founds themselves at the top of the ladder, then Barrett climbed up behind them. Barrett fought off Rhodes, then knocked Barrett down the ladder. Barrett came back, though, with a Wasteland attempt, only to have Bryan land multiple elbow strikes to the neck. Bryan then kicked Barrett off the top and Bryan was alone on the ladder. The crowd came to their feet as Bryan reached up, grabbed the case, struggled to unhook it, and finally unhooked it to win the match.

Post-match: Bryan dropped down to the mat and clutched the briefcase as the announcers noted this could be a career-changing moment for Bryan. The vocal males chanted, "Daniel Bryan," as Bryan continued to sell shock and Cole ate crow on commentary after knocking Bryan throughout the match. After a replay of high points in the match, they showed Bryan celebrating with the case again.

WINNER: Bryan at 24:27. Quite the surprise to start the PPV. Of course, will Bryan now be the first MITB winner not to win a World Title? The match itself was up and down with some high points, but also some low points. It evened out to a strong start for a WWE PPV. (***1/2)

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella) -- Divas Title match

Out first were the Bella Twins for the "come down match" after the 25-minute opening match. Kelly Kelly was out next, flanked by Eve. Torch specialist Alex Roberts live in the arena: "Mass exodus to merch/food." WWE has positioned the Divas division as filler and that's how the audience responds to it. Kelly scored with early offense before Brie cut her off and went to work. Brie scored some close nearfalls before Kelly eventually hit her finisher for the win. Naturally, the Bellas vowed to get revenge on the way out of the ring as Kelly and Eve celebrated in the ring.

WINNER: Kelly at 4:54. Standard title retention for Kelly, who should move on to Beth Phoenix at some point.

3 -- MARK HENRY vs. BIG SHOW

The bell sounded and the two men quickly charged each other center-ring. Cole talked about the Tale of the Tape as Show quickly took Henry off his feet with a shoulder tackle that also knocked down Show. Why have the big men taken off their feet 25 seconds in? The match then moved to the floor and Show teased a chokeslam, but Henry elbowed out as the ref tried to implore them to get the fight back in the ring. Eventually, they re-entered and Henry chopped down Show at the left knee to begin working on Show's leg. Show then found himself on the second rope for a shoulder tackle and sold the left knee after delivering the move.

Show was the first man up and called for the chokeslam, which Henry avoided with a kick to the gut. Henry went back to the knee before delivering World's Strongest Slam middle ring. Henry made a cover, but Show kicked out in time. The announcers stressed their belief no one has ever kicked out of WSS. Henry then shouted toward the ceiling before delivering another WSS. Henry followed with a big splash, then another big splash. Henry made the cover and it was good for the win.

Post-match: The ref checked on Show before Henry went to the floor looking to inflict more damage. Henry retrieved a chair as Lawler tried to calm him down, noting he already won the match. Henry placed Show's knee inside the chair, then climbed up the turnbuckles. Henry went for a Vader Bomb and connected on the ankle. Show sold a la Del Rio running him over with the vehicle. Where was Kane to hold his hand? A medic hit the ring to check on Show as Henry watched from ringside. Show sold a broken ankle before medics and another stretcher hit the ring. A cart came to ringside as Show was helped out of the ring and the crowd chanted, "C-M-Punk." Show was placed on the stretcher and wheeled away as the announcers noted it's been a rough night following Sin Cara in the opening match. They went to a replay of Henry falling on the chair with all of his weight crashing down on the area. Cole said what's disturbing is the attack took place after the match. Cole said Smackdown GM Teddy Long can't put up with this much longer.

WINNER: Henry at 6:00. Curious match booking with the two big men coming off their feet early on, which took the audience out of the action, before the big post-match angle enhanced Henry's victory. The end result is continuing to give Smackdown something to work with as two forces - Henry and Long's authority - come closer to a collision. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2011, 01:10 pm
4 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. R-TRUTH vs. REY MYSTERIO vs. THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY vs. EVAN BOURNE -- Raw Money in the Bank ladder match
 
The bell sounded and seven wrestlers ganged up on Del Rio with their ladders. Meanwhile, Booker picked Bourne to win as Cole expectedly picked his buddy, Miz. The action cleared out a little bit leading to Miz and Truth having a ladder battle. Swagger's "ladder was a little bigger," as Lawler put it, and Swagger knocked down both men. Miz and Riley then found themselves fighting on a ladder not tall enough to reach the case. Moments later, they found themselves on the floor. Suddenly, R-Truth came flying over the top rope with a splash onto three wrestlers. Next, Rey and Kofi came off the top on opposite top turnbuckles to splash men ringside. Bourne had the next trick: a Shooting Star Press off the top of a ladder onto everyone ringside. Terrific form on that move.
 
Bourne was the first one up from the pile and tried to grab the case in the ring, but Miz cut him off. Bourne and Miz battled on top of the ladder before Del Rio knocked them off the ladder. Miz screamed after he hit the mat, selling a right knee injury. Miz removed his kneepad as refs and ref Nunzio called for a medic. A doc tried putting the knee back into the place as Miz tried waving everyone off trying to help him. Miz was eventually helped to the back as the crowd seemed to be quiet wondering if Miz was selling or really hurt.
 
Back in the ring, Rey and Bourne executed double huracanranas on Truth and Del Rio to clear them from the ring. Riley then tried to sneak in behind Swagger, but Swagger cut him off. Truth then launched both men off the ladder and limped around the ring looking for another ladder. Cole interjected some social media talk and said Rey is the pick to win according to WWE fans on Facebook. There were a lot of bodies in the ring at this point 11:30 in. In fact, all seven remaining men. They all climbed the multiple ladders in unison and started grabbing for the case as the crowd waited for something to happen. Bodies then started flying out of the ring one by one before it was down to Rey and Kofi. Kofi then kicked Rey off the ladder, leaving Kofi by himself. Kofi grabbed the case, but Swagger quickly scaled another ladder and cut off Kofi. Both men then fell off a ladder and crashed to the ground.
 
Suddenly, as expected, Miz hobbled down to ringside and tried to climb a ladder, but Rey cut him off. The crowd booed a bit, apparently buying into Miz tonight. Rey then powerbombed Miz off the ladder and started climbing the ladder. It was WrestleMania 22 all over again with Rey being booed. Suddenly, Del Rio yanked at Rey, who kicked Del Rio away. Rey then reached up to grab the case, but Del Rio climbed up again. Rey used the case to bash Del Rio in the face, but Del Rio shoved him away and took Rey's mask. (They didn't go to a close-up shot of Rey to avoid showing him mask-less.) Suddenly, both men fell off the ladder and crashed and burned. It didn't look planned, but fit the chaotic nature of the match in a kayfabe sense. Del Rio then had a moment chucking Rey's mask away before setting up a ladder. Del Rio tried climbing amidst the chaos and reached up to grab the case. The crowd was hot as Del Rio unhooked the case to win the match. (Roberts noted live in the arena the crowd was mixed with cheers and boos for Del Rio.) WWE stayed with the post-match celebration for a while as Del Rio celebrated while sitting on the ladder.
 
WINNER: Del Rio at 15:54. Step One of the WWE Title match end result? A strong conclusion (despite the chaotic finish) and interesting crowd response after a pretty good 15-minute ladder match. Bourne certainly had his moment with the Air Bourne ringside to get his shine in a match he wasn't going to win. (***1/4)

5 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN -- World Title match -- Christian wins the title by standard pinfall & submission, plus DQ or "bad refereeing"
 
The bell sounded and Christian went to the floor to grab a chair. Back in the ring, he tossed the chair toward Orton to give him an opportunity to DQ himself. Orton balked and chucked the chair to the floor. Christian then shoved Orton, who responded with a right hand to the forehead. Orton then teed off on Christian with hard offense. They went back-and-forth before eventually spilling out of the ring to the floor at 6:00. A count-out was still in-play for the match, but both men beat a ten count back into the ring.
 
Back in the ring, Orton scored a close two count with a jackknife pin before scoring another close two count. Christian tried to come back with top-rope offense, but Orton cut him off, only to have Christian knock him down to the mat for a flying headbutt that only scored a two count. Orton then tried to come back with an RKO, but Christian nailed the Unprettier. Christian had the pin and Cole did the ol' "it's over!" call, which meant Orton was kicking out. After the kick out, Christian sold frustration being unable to put Orton away. Christian then went into Edge mode for a spear, but Orton avoided. Orton then hit a gutwrench into a reverse RKO of sorts. Orton with the cover, but Christian kicked out. This time, Orton sold disbelief.
 
The crowd was hot as Orton came to his feet, stalking Christian. Orton "went there" and wanted The Punt, but Christian avoided before taking a powerslam. Orton then went for his elevated DDT from the second rope and connected. Orton dropped down to his stomach to set up for the RKO, but Christian bailed to the corner. Orton stalked him, then Christian spit in his face. Orton snapped and pounded away on Christian, nearly DQ'ing himself. Orton broke free at four, but then punted Christian in the groin. It was good for a DQ, and the crowd popped, realizing a title switch was going down. The ref made it official and Christian was declared the new World champ.
 
Post-match: Orton snapped and dragged Christian to the floor. Orton smashed Christian with a ringside monitor. This one brought out Teddy Long as opposed to the Mark Henry angle earlier. Long tried to talk Orton down from the ledge, as Cole put it. Orton was having none of it and dropped Christian with an RKO onto the announce table, which didn't break. Lawler said Orton has lost it. They went to a replay of Christian's championship-winning loogie. Cole said it's great strategy from Christian. They cut back to Orton ranting and raving ringside as Long tried to calm him down. Lawler said Orton got screwed as Cole defended Christian.
 
Suddenly, Orton returned to ringside to a big reaction. Orton wanted another piece of Christian and he got that crazy look in his eyes. The crowd popped for crazed Orton, who lifted up Christian and dropped him with another RKO on the table, which didn't break. Christian was out cold as Orton stood over him. The crowd popped for Orton, but was also seemingly pleading with Daniel Bryan to come cash in the briefcase. Orton stood on the entrance ramp and fought the IED before turning back around to look toward the ring. Orton left and the cameras re-focused on Christian trying to gather himself. After another replay of the loogie spot, Christian was shown being dragged away by medics and refs. Christian was booed on the way out as he clutched the World Title belt.
 
WINNER: Christian via DQ at 12:20 to capture the World Title. This was a perfect set-up for Christian to have that story of losing the title right after winning to have a five-minute reign to go with his five-day reign. Since that didn't happen, it looks like Christian vs. Orton re-match at Summerslam, likely with Edge as special ref. WWE teased a double-turn with Orton snapping on Christian post-match, but this crowd seemed to be hot for crazed Orton. Overall, a good night for Smackdown breathing some life into the brand. (***1/2)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 18 2011, 01:10 pm
6 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- WWE Title match

The bell sounded at 9:12 p.m. CST, allowing for plenty of time. Cole said Cena debuted in this building back on "Friday" Night Smackdown. It was Thursdays back then. Punk and Cena started with some headlocks and mat holds as the crowd chanted, "You can't wrestle." Punk comically made sure the crowd was aiming that toward Cena, not him. Cena then applied a hammerlock as Booker suggested Cena was trying to take the crowd out of the match. Meanwhile, the announcers questioned whether Punk has brainwashed his city and his followers because if he leaves with the title, he screws the audience. After Cena's early offense, Punk came back with a dropkick to a big reaction. Punk then grabbed a headlock as Cole brought up the Montreal Screwjob to show what lengths McMahon will go to keep the title in WWE. Hmm. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment moments later, Punk teased the G2S, and they came to a standstill.

After the standstill, Punk scored with offense before Cena scored with a bulldog for a two count. Cena followed with a big knock-down clothesline that might have knocked a tooth loose. Cena scored a two count, then grabbed another chinlock. Punk escaped with a back drop for a two count. The pro-Cena high-pitched fans were heard for the first time engaging in a "Let's Go Cena" vs. "Cena Sucks" chant. Cena then scored with a fisherman suplex for a two count, but Punk came back with a DDT for a two count. Punk followed with a leg vice trying to squeeze the life out of Cena. There was a mild "Colt Cabana" chant before Punk dumped Cena out of the ring. Cole questioned if that was a wise move as Punk followed to the outside. Punk then placed Cena across the ring apron and nailed a flying knee to the back of the neck.

Back in the ring at 10:30, Punk made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Punk then went for a corner attack, but Cena moved and Punk ate the ringpost. Cena tried to follow up, but Punk kicked him away. Punk then grabbed a chinlock as the announcers continued to stress the value and importance of the WWE Title. Cole referenced Triple H, saying he once said if you're not in the business to become champ, then go home. The pro-Cena fans tried to rally behind Cena as Cena kicked out of a pin following a top rope move. Cena sold a right knee injury - the theme of the night - and rolled to the ring apron for a breather. The crowd was momentarily hushed. Punk then tried a suplex back into the ring, but Cena suplexed Punk over the top rope to the floor. Punk made a big, wet splat on the floor as the ref applied a ten count on both men.

Back in the ring at 14:20, Cena made a cover, but Punk kicked out. Cena then scored with a suplex before delivering an elbow drop for a two count. Cena tried to follow with a powerslam of sorts, Punk slipped out, but then Cena delivered a shoulderbreaker-grip into a bodyslam for a two count. Unique. Cena came to his feet and started jabbing Punk, who suddenly came back with rights of his own. Boos/Yeahs before Cena slapped on an abdominal stretch, which drew cheers from the pro-Cena crowd. Punk escaped, then they had a double knockdown center-ring.

At 17:30, they came to their feet together and Cena started his comeback routine. Punk slipped out of the backdrop, though, and nearly scored a three count. Punk missed with a patented corner knee, then Cena delivered a sit-out slam. Cena warmed up the Five Knuckle Shuffle to big boos, but Punk kicked Cena in the face when he tried the hand wave. Punk then kneed Cena to the floor before flying through the ropes with a suicide dive. Both men crashed into the guardrail upon impact. After a pause, Punk threw Cena back into the ring and climbed onto the ring apron. Punk went for a springboard dive, but Cena moved and Punk ate the mat.

Cena then did the full Knuckle Shuffle routine, including fist drop. Cena wanted the AA, but Punk landed on his feet to avoid. Punk followed with big kick strikes and made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Suddenly, Punk teased the G2S, but Cena countered with a gutwrench suplex for a close nearfall. Cena was the first man up and adjusted his belt before stalking Punk for the AA. Punk escaped, though, and nailed multiple knee strikes to the jaw followed by a flying bulldog. Punk then went to the ring apron for a springboard clothesline and connected. Punk covered, but Cena kicked out in time. They went to a slow-motion replay of Cena taking a big knee to the jaw that absolutely rocked Cena.

At 22:30, Punk landed kick strikes to the upper body. More strikes. Cena started absorbing, though, before ducking a kick and flowing into the STF center ring. Punk's eyes bugged out as Cole implored Punk to tap out. Punk fought the hold as he stared at the bottom rope. Punk tried to crawl toward the bottom rope and made a last-second desperation reach for the bottom rope to break the hold. Cena tried to follow up, but Punk kicked him in the body for a two count. Punk then went up top and did a Savage salute before executing a splash, but Cena rolled through into the AA. Punk countered into the G2S, but Cena intercepted mid-air for the STF. Punk teased a break, but Cena pulled him back to center-ring. The crowd was red-hot imploring Punk to grab the rope. Suddenly, Punk countered into a neck vice submission. The crowd called for Cena to tap as Cena tried to fight the hold mid-ring. Cena found his way to his feet, then suddenly transitioned into the AA out of nowhere. Cena made the cover, but Punk kicked out. Huge pop.

The men reset as Cole said this has been extraordinary. Booker said he can't call it. Cena went up top, selling exhaustion as he set up for a guillotine leg drop that Punk countered into a seated slam for a two count. The crowd chanted "C-M-Punk" as Punk did the go-to-sleep hand motion. Punk sold a back injury as he went for the G2S, but Cena grabbed the top rope to escape. Cena yanked Punk throat-first across the top rope, then he went up top. Cena wanted the leg drop and he connected this time. Cena with the cover, but Punk kicked out again. "I'm exhausted," Booker said. At 29:00, Cena stood up and measured Punk for what was next. Cena wanted the AA again. This time, he connected center ring. Punk made the cover, but Punk kicked out again. Cena just stood up and smiled before checking the ref on his count. At exactly 30:00, Cole said they are 30 minutes into this match.

Cena went back to stalking Punk. Cena dragged Punk to the corner and put him up top. Super AA? Cena slowly climbed up top looking for a top-rope AA, but Punk elbowed Cena in the back of the head. Punk then measured Cena and delivered a top-rope huracanrana. Cena rolled across the ring to avoid a pin, though. Punk followed with a knee strike in the corner before delivering the G2S, but Cena rolled through the ring to the floor. Punk pounded the mat in frustration, unable to pin Cena on the floor. Punk retrieved Cena, then rolled him back into the ring.

Suddenly, McMahon and Laurinaitis came walking down to ringside. They stopped mid-way as Punk stared back at them. McMahon returned the stare as Punk slowly re-entered the ring. The distraction allowed Cena to slap on the STF. McMahon wanted the bell to be rung and Laurinaitis went running, but Cena absolutely creamed Ace, who took the greatest bump of all-time. Cena shouted at McMahon that this isn't going down this way. Cena then returned to the ring, where he ate a G2S from Punk center ring. Punk made the cover and it was good for the win. The crowd exploded as McMahon stared ahead in disbelief.

WINNER: Punk at 33:44 to capture the WWE Title. That was simply an amazing match. There hasn't been a match with that kind of feel in WWE in a very long time. Even the "run-in" at the end was part of the story and enhanced the finish rather than taking away from it. The match had all of the intangibles that make up an epic wrestling match, complete with the ultimate story: two men tearing each other apart for the top prize in WWE: the WWE Title. (*****)

Post-match: Cole noted Punk will no longer be an employee of WWE in less than two hours. Punk flashed the title belt toward McMahon, who continued to stare straight ahead. McMahon then ran down to the announcers and ripped off Lawler's headset. He screamed at someone to call for Del Rio to cash in right now. Del Rio came springing down to the ring with the case in-hand, but Punk blasted him with a kick to the head. Punk smirked at McMahon, then he went through the crowd after blowing McMahon a kiss. Punk reached the top of the arena and stood tall among the people with possession of the WWE Title. McMahon's eyes welled up as the MITB credits flashed. Punk disappeared to the back and they showed a shot of Punk walking through the concourse before going to a final shot of McMahon selling disbelief in the ring. The show ended at that point.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2011, 04:40 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-18-11 (next three posts...)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51513.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and end segment.

1 -- THE MIZ vs. ALEX RILEY -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Riley slowly tried to get to Miz's knee as Miz tried to avoid him. Riley eventually got to the knee and began working it over. Riley then applied a half-Boston crab, but Miz flung him to the floor. Miz took control of the match and nearly got himself DQ'ed landing too many punches without breaking. Meanwhile, Cole announced every match will end via pinfall or submission only. Riley made his comeback at 3:30 and both men teased finishers before Riley caught Miz in a Texas Cloverleaf. Riley couldn't maintain the hold, though, and Miz reached the ropes for a break. They had a clunky spot involving the referee getting in the way, then Miz surprised Riley with the Skullcrushing Finale. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Miz at 5:00 to advance to the semi-finals. Okay match. They were a bit off at times, especially during the finish, and the crowd wasn't all the way invested. Concerning Riley, WWE needs to be patient building him up and allowing him to naturally connect with the broad audience. (*1/4)

2 -- R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Cole reset the show on the purpose of the tournament, Cena's status, and noted Mark Henry taking out Big Show, who Cole said could be out up to two months. Cole plugged an update this Friday on Smackdown. Now, was that so hard promoting Smackdown events in a short, simple update? As Swagger and Truth went back and forth, Cole noted holding the WWE Title is about power before discussing Cena's situation tonight. Lawler said he doesn't think McMahon will do anything to jeopardize his business by simply firing Cena. Cole interjected the deal about Cena Fans lobbying for WWE to keep Cena's job intact. Lawler then treaded carefully discussing the title match, saying he thinks McMahon contributed to Punk taking the title and Cena losing.

Cole actually acknowledged they were ignoring the match in the ring discussing Cena-McMahon issues, before they resumed talking about what happened last night, including the atmosphere. Lawler said he couldn't even describe it in words other than it was like the Chicago Bears were in the Super Bowl and the Super Bowl was in Chicago. Lawler claimed there was a "huge amount of respect" for Cena in the crowd, but they were ultimately pro-Punk. (The whole design of that match, from a Cena perspective, was to try to get some respect back for Cena.) Suddenly, Truth countered an anklelock from Swagger into a jackknife pin and it was good for a quick win. Truth advances to the semi-finals. He gets the Rey-Ziggler winner.

WINNER: R-Truth at 4:19 to advance to the semi-finals. There was a match? The commentary took over the match, which wasn't very inspiring, especially featuring two heels against each other. Swagger just seems to be going through the motion right now, and who can blame him when WWE has lost sight of how to promote him. Meanwhile, a theme is developing where the wrestler who gets the pre-match focus is winning. (3/4*)

3 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

The bell sounded and Cole offered another Smackdown plug for Daniel Bryan's MITB victory at the PPV. Cole called it a fluke and noted they will discuss it in more detail on Smackdown this Friday. Cole brought up Cena's Twitter posts before Raw again and noted Rock just replied, saying he pleaded with McMahon not to fire Cena and called his apology "phony." Del Rio and Kingston went back-and-forth as Cole continued to hype tonight's Raw as being "historic." Cole went back to discussing Cena-Rock and Lawler said he believes Cena is hopeful he will not be fired despite what he posted.

Meanwhile, Kingston built some momentum after Del Rio missed with a corner attack. Del Rio then teased the cross arm-breaker, but Kingston countered with a sudden roll-up. Del Rio tried to escape, but Kingston held down Del Rio for the win. Cole said he thought Del Rio's shoulder was up during the count and they went to a replay showing Del Rio's shoulder pinned to the mat. Cole said perhaps the other angle showed a shoulder up.

WINNER: Kingston at 5:08 to advance to the semi-finals. And they broke the pattern of pre-match focus = victory. It made sense with Del Rio having the MITB briefcase, which will now linger over the tournament/title situation. (*1/2)

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. REY MYSTERIO -- First Round WWE Title tournament match

Ziggler quickly took control of the match after splattering Rey on the floor. Back in the ring, they traded close nearfalls while seated on the mat. Lawler interjected an item about McMahon officially stripping "the champion" (Punk) of the WWE Title, which was alluded to but not officially acknowledged at the start of the show. Rey made his comeback at 3:00, but Ziggler cut him off and scored a two count. Rey then countered a powerbomb into a huracanrana, but missed with a follow-up 619 when Ziggler ducked at the last second. Ziggler followed right up with a powerslam, but only scored a two count. "619, 619" chant as Ziggler stomped and Vickie screamed. Rey then hit the 619 on his second try before going up top for a flying splash. Rey connected and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 4:56. Best of the four first round matches after an inspired effort by both men. Outside of the tournament, WWE had a chance to elevate Ziggler tonight being the only male singles champion left on the Raw brand, but that wasn't the case here. (*3/4)

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE & GAIL KIM & BETH PHOENIX & A.J. & KAITLYN & NATALYA vs. BRIE BELLA & NIKKI BELLA & MARYSE & ALICIA FOX & ROSA MENDES & TAMINA & MELINA

The action broke down 30 seconds in. In the ring, Phoenix hit the Glam Slam on Rosa for a quick pin and the win. Afterward, the babyface Divas stood tall in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Kelly at 1:02. Not much here other than a brief look at a possible Kelly vs. Beth title situation following the Kelly-Bellas feud.

6 -- THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON -- Semi-final WWE Title tournament match

Kingston scored an early one count trying to small-package a gimpy Miz. Kingston followed with an elevated dropkick for a two count. Miz then took control and tried to slow things down to work through his injury. Kingston went back to the knee, though, and followed with a slingshot splash for a two count. Miz continued to show resiliency as Lawler did the ol' routine of Miz having a built-in excuse when he loses, which meant Miz was winning.

Kingston took out Miz's again and teased the Trouble in Paradise, but Miz bailed to the ring apron. Kofi scored a close two count moments later, but Miz came right back with the Skullcrushing Finale. It was good for the win after Miz slowly rolled Kingston over for a pin. "One more to get!" Cole shouted over and over. Post-match: Miz, with a bloody lip, smiled for the hard camera and hobbled across the ring. After a replay, Miz gingerly made his way out of the ring as they reviewed the finals. Rey-Truth winner advances to face Miz in the finals.

WINNER: Miz at 3:52 to advance to the finals. Good nearfalls throughout. The whole thing seems off, though, with the heel "overcoming the odds" against babyfaces incapable of putting away a one-legged man. WWE's defense would be they're trying to elevate Miz as a "tough guy" who is also a capable competitor in the ring and not just all-talk. They didn't put in the groundwork ahead of time, though, to pull it off credibly without the faces looking weak. (*1/2)

7 -- REY MYSTERIO vs. R-TRUTH -- Semi-final WWE Title tournament match

As the bell sounded, Cole plugged the tournament finals still to come and McMahon's decision on John Cena. R-Truth quickly grounded Rey, trying to prevent Rey from delivering his high-flying offense. Truth momentarily lost control and Rey sent Truth flying to the floor. Rey followed with a big suicide dive. Instead of staying with the action, which WWE has done the entire tournament, they cut to break.

Back live, Truth had Rey on the mat with a headlock. During the break, Rey scored a close nearfall, per an inset replay. Cole reset the show and noted the reason for the tournament as Truth became frustrated with his inability to put away Rey. Truth scored with the Lie Detector, but Rey kicked out in time. Cole suggested Truth was a bit hungrier than Rey tonight, but Lawler countered that Rey has more heart kicking out. Cole said Rey has heart, but sometimes the heart gives out. That was quite the inadvertently loaded comment considering early wrestler deaths in the industry. Meanwhile, Truth continued to be frustrated. He scored with a flapjack suplex, but Rey kicked out in time. Cole said that every time Rey kicks out, it drives Truth even more nuts.

Truth missed with a corner attack, then Rey came back with a turnaround splash off the ropes for a two count. Rey, selling exhaustion, then walked into a flip-over jawbreaker. Truth made a cover, but Rey grabbed the bottom rope to escape just in time. Truth started looking around the arena, hearing voices in the arena. Rey took advantage with a head scissors into the 619. Rey followed up with a top-rope splash and it was good for the win. After a replay, Cole said Rey won't be leaving the ring, as he faces Miz in the finals next.

WINNER: Rey at 12:49 to advance to the finals. Decent action throughout and an acceptable finish that drew in the crowd. The drawback was the technical aspect of Truth having to co-operate too much on the final few moves to set up the finish. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2011, 04:40 pm
8 -- THE MIZ vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Finals of WWE Title tournament did not occur

McMahon began his promo, saying no one is bigger than WWE. He said he can make a new John Cena. "C-M-Punk chant" interrupted. McMahon talked up Cena's contributions to WWE and thanked him for his service, but said sometimes you have to set an example in business. He said it's not about his ego or having to win all the time; it's about business. McMahon said he does what he does for the benefit of the audience from a business perspective. He said he makes decisions from a long-term perspective and sometimes people don't see what he's doing, but in time, they'll thank him. McMahon said as much as he would like not to do this...pause for another Punk chant...let's get this over with.

One minute before the top of the hour, John Cena's music played to a strong reaction. Mainly cheers, but some audible boos. Cena hit the ring and stood in one corner trying to hold back a smile. Cena eventually walked past McMahon and yanked the mic away from him. Cena told "Kevin" (Dunn) he's not going to go on a tirade or show his junk to the crowd. He said he's not going to go through what McMahon made Shawn Michaels do. Cena referenced Michaels carrying the burden of the Montreal Screwjob for a long time. He said he wouldn't want to be the same guy who screwed C.M. Punk. Cena said he knew what was at stake. He said it was more than just the title or his career. Cena said it was about McMahon wanting to keep his bubble intact. He said he was not going to be McMahon's patsy. "No way," he said to applause.

Cena said he's not supposed to say this guy's name, but he told Punk it was a hell of a match last night. "Thank you so much," he said. Cena told McMahon he wanted to throw out the match last night, but he wasn't going to play that way because McMahon would have made the title meaningless. "That's not true," McMahon mouthed. Cena told McMahon to go ahead and make one, five, even ten of him. He said McMahon has eight months to find a new opponent for The Rock. He said McMahon can do some hocus-pocus and find an opponent and the show will go on. Cena said he will leave with his dignity, though. Cena said he loves WWE and he truly believes he belongs here. He said if McMahon is telling him he has no other option, then he will walk onto someone else's television show and keep doing this "brother." Cena said it's not a threat; it's a promise. Cena said a lot of people say a lot of things, but one thing he won't do is kiss McMahon's ***.

Cena threw the mic toward McMahon, who called Cena back to center-ring. McMahon said that as much as it hurts him personally and business-wise, he has to say this. "John..." Suddenly, Triple H's music hit. Everyone recoiled as the crowd popped big.

Triple H, in a suit, came marching to the ring with his head. McMahon took a deep breath as Cena backed out of the spotlight. Hunter walked up to McMahon and talked in his ear about something. McMahon smiled and walked across the ring to grab a mic for Hunter. McMahon hyped Hunter to the crowd as Hunter deflected it by staring down at the mat. Hunter walked toward McMahon and said there was a Board of Directors meeting this morning. He paused. He said that last night, they flew from Chicago to here. He said he flew to the office after that. Pause. Hunter said the Board asked him to come here to talk to McMahon. He said they're concerned about the situation. Hunter wanted to talk about it in the back. The crowd wanted to hear it now. Hunter said he tried to get out here before McMahon made it to the ring. He said the Board is concerned about him. The Board gets McMahon has built a global empire. It's a given.

But, at the same point in time, the Board is concerned about your extremely questionable decisions as of late. McMahon told Hunter to stop beating around the bush and say it. Hunter said the Board has filed an injunction against McMahon with a vote of no confidence. And, Vince, the family agrees. McMahon sold taking that one personally. On top of that, the Board has appointed someone to take over the day-to-day operations of WWE. Vince sold with sadness in his eyes. Hunter took a deep breath into the mic. He said he can't even believe he's even going to say this. "Vince, it's me," he said. McMahon couldn't believe it. Hunter continued to stare down at the mat as McMahon sold tears. "Cena, Cena" chant as Hunter looked back toward McMahon. Hunter told McMahon he's not going to fire John Cena. Cena was ringside slapping hands at this point. Hunter told McMahon he's not doing anything anymore. He said McMahon taught him from Day One that no one is bigger than this business. Both men were selling tears at this point.

Hunter said he can't believe he's doing this. He said he's here to inform McMahon that he is relieved of his duties. McMahon had the big tears as Hunter continued to look down at the mat. Both men stared down at the mat. "You can't do this to me," McMahon mouthed. The crowd chanted, "Na na na goodbye," as McMahon looked toward the ceiling. Hunter said he didn't want to do this, but he did what's right for business. Hunter told McMahon to look at him. "How about a hug?" someone cat-called. Hunter told McMahon he loves him, which finally broke the dam for McMahon. Hunter threw down the mic and bailed from the ring. Alone in the ring was the star of the show. "Trip-le-H" chant as he turned to look back into the ring from the stage. Hunter then turned to leave before the camera went back to McMahon. McMahon mouthed, "Thank you, thank you," as the crowd began to applaud now. McMahon quietly wiped away tears, then told someone to cut out. The trademark came on as the crowd chanted, "Thank you, Vince." They stayed with a close-up shot of McMahon selling tears for about five or six seconds before fading out. PYB talk time: 17:20.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 19 2011, 04:40 pm
WWE News: What Happened After Raw Went Off-Air (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_51524.shtml)

Post-Raw Happenings

As Raw was going off the air, there was a "Thank you, Vince" chant going on. Once Raw was off-air he said, "Thank You, thank you to all...but this is not on me...I don't like to point blame, but this is all on that son-of-a-***** John Cena."
 
McMahon went on to say if this is was his last night in front of the people, then he was going out fighting. He took off his tie and jacket and called out Cena. Cena's music hit and he came out to the ring. Cena grabbed a mic and said, "I know you had a tough day at work today, but you don't want to fight me, just say your two cents and we'll go on our way."

Vince grabbed the mic and said "screw you" and back-hand slapped Cena's hat off. Cena just laughed and then vince shoved him. Cena started to retaliate and backed Vince into a corner when Miz, R-Truth, and Dolph Ziggler rushed the ring and started to dismantle Cena with Vince shouting instructions. Then, Evan Bourne, Zack Ryder, and Santino came in to help Cena.

Vince got back up the ramp and the faces managed to dispose of Truth and The Miz, who was still selling a big limp, leaving just Dolph, who was surrounded by Cena, Ryder, Santino, and Bourne. Dolph pleaded his case, but Cena knocked him down and gave him the Five Knuckle Shuffle followed by an Attitude Adjustment. Santino then followed up with The Cobra, Ryder with the Zack Attack, and, finally,, Bourne with Air Bourne.

Happenings Off Live TV

-- Before Raw went on the air, they showed the last five minutes of the MITB PPV to set up Vince McMahon to start the show. Just seconds before going on air, there was an announcement by the ring announcer that McMahon requested the WWE Universe refrain from saying or chanting C.M. Punk's name, which had everyone chanting "C-M-Punk" as Raw went on the air.

-- During a commercial break after the Del Rio tournament match, McMahon came out with a mic and the crowd started the Punk chant again, to which he repsonded, "C.M. Punk my ***." He then said, "You people spend your money on tickets and support someone who turns their back on you?...What cow pastures did you ingrates crawl out of?...you people suck." He then threw his mic down and left.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 22 2011, 09:05 am
WWE NXT Results: 7-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51546.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. KOZLOV

Kozlov tried an early attack, but JTG knocked him to the outside and took control. Since JTG has turned heel during this season, Regal has changed his tune on JTG; Regal is now claiming JTG has talent after previously saying JTG is a no-talent, waste-of-space. Kozlov eventually made a comeback and delivered a headbutt into the Iron Curtain for the pin and the win. Grisham managed to show zero excitement for the finish. After a replay of the finish, Kozlov was shown celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Kozlov at 5:26.

2 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle) vs. DARREN YOUNG

Titus completely dominated the first three minutes, so Young bailed to the floor and tried to head to the back to call it a night, but Titus dragged him back into the ring. Titus proceeded to chuck Young clear over the top turnbuckle to the other side of the ringside area in front of the announcers. Titus landed multiple blows to the chest as the referee administered a ten count. Both men were back in at eight, then Titus clubbed Young to the ring apron with a forearm smash. On the apron, Young caught Titus with a neckbreaker that seemed take the life out of both men. Bateman then randomly walked out on-stage in possession of Cole's picture from the opening segment. They abruptly cut to break at 6:00.

Back from break, Bateman was pacing ringside trying to get a closer look at the action. In the ring, Young knocked down Titus with a clothesline for a two count. Bateman eventually made his way to the announce table to engage Regal in a one-sided conversation. Meanwhile, Regal talked about his protégé, Daniel Bryan, winning Smackdown's MITB match at the PPV. Regal said the difference between them is he has no morals, whereas he's sure Bryan will do the honorable thing announcing his intentions in-advance.

At 10:00, Titus started a comeback with a gutwrench suplex. Regal referenced Gordon Solie here, and Titus made a full comeback before Hornswoggle randomly got involved with the ref. In the background, Bateman tripped O'Neil from behind, but it actually helped O'Neil as Young was already mid-air for a dropkick, causing him to crash to the mat. Bateman glared into the ring, then moments later, Titus dropped Young with the sky-high bomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: O'Neil at 11:15. Not that any of this matters, but this made Young and Bateman look pretty silly and ineffective. Titus continues to be positioned as the winner of this season, whenever it ends.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2011, 12:27 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51597.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

Slow start as they felt each other out before Kidd slowed down the pace. Gabriel came back with some A.J. Styles-like offense before Kidd cut him off on the top turnbuckle. Kidd tried to follow with a huracanrana, but Gabriel held onto the top rope and Kidd crashed down to the mat. Gabriel then steadied himself and delivered the 450 Splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gabriel at 4:22. Basic singles match. It felt like they were holding back for a future match-up of greater length.

2 -- ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

Fox had a full ring intro back from the break and Natalya was already in the ring, which usually doesn't bode well. Korpela noted this same match-up two weeks ago featured a tremendous amount of hair-related attacks. Natalya used her wrestling expertise to take an early advantage while also stealing Alicia's belt to taunt her. Natalya continued to dominate with successive offense before Alicia suddenly rolled up Natalya for the pin and the win. After the match, Natalya tried to get some back from Alicia, but the victor high-tailed it up the stage.

WINNER: Alicia Fox at 2:45. Your basic example of the babyface completely dominating and the heel sneaking out a sudden victory to keep the babyface on the chase.

3 -- WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY) vs. ZACK RYDER & SANTINO -- non-title match

Santino started things off, but Ryder tagged himself in. Ref Nunzio instructed Santino to exit as Ryder tried his hand against Otunga. Scott Stanford noted Kozlov is not happy about this Santino & Ryder pairing, and Ryder will not be taking away their friendship. Kozlov's best friend teased the Cobra on Mike, but Mike ducked to the floor. On the floor, Otunga ate the Cobra, but Mike decked Santino with a clothesline to end the rapid-fire sequence. They cut to break with Santino in trouble.

Back from break, the tag champs had Santino isolated. Meanwhile, Stanford asked Josh Mathews if Santino & Ryder should be in tag title consideration. Mathews simply answered, "Yes," before explaining himself, apparently realizing the absurdity of a team that has never teamed up before being in the tag title picture. (Or, just the absurdity of the current tag division in WWE.) Stanford noted some other tag teams atop the division as the champs continued to wear down Santino.

Santino finally broke free at 5:00 and hot-tagged Ryder, who cleaned house. Obligatory House of Fire reference from Stanford before the action broke down and Santino went flying to the floor. Ryder then clotheslined Mike over the top rope. Back in the ring, Otunga wanted The Verdict uranage, but Ryder countered in mid-air with the Rough Ryder. That was an amazing counter. Ryder made the cover for the win. The tag champs suffer another non-title defeat.

Afterward, they replayed high points of the match, including the Rough Ryder counter. Ryder then showed Santino how to take care and spike his hair as the tag champs retreated on the stage clutching their Tag Title belts.

WINNERS: Ryder & Santino at 5:46. A strong tag match with some good action and a nice pace for a six-minute bout. Ryder's counter to finish the match is worth seeking out.

4 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. PRIMO

Bourne received a full ring intro as Primo waited in the ring. The camera focused on Bourne pre-match as Primo brooded over this match-up in the corner. Stanford focused on the wrestlers having respect for each other, while Mathews stressed it all goes out the window in WWE because it's about winning matches and competing for titles. Primo took control of the match early on, trying to take away Bourne's high-flying attack. Primo executed a delayed vertical suplex for a two count, then Bourne ducked a clothesline and started a comeback.

The two men traded rapid-fire pin attempts before Bourne landed a back-heel kick. Bourne quickly scampered up top and landed Air Bourne as a camera was positioned right nex to Primo for a closer look at Bourne's finisher. Bourne with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Bourne at 4:21. Appropriately following the MITB ladder match PPV, the show started with a 450 Splash and ended with Air Bourne. Fine showcase for Bourne.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2011, 12:29 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51591.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1- ROB VAN DAM vs. SCOTT STEINER --- BOUND FOR GLORY SERIES MATCH

With the annoyingly common prematch attack, Steiner took control early, hitting a big suplex that caused RVD's eyebrow to bleed. Steiner put RVD into the Tree of Woe and started choking him with his boot.

Steiner continued to dominate, putting RVD into a submission and then slamming him into the corner. But RVD floated over off of an Irish whip and hit a desperation superkick to get a rest.

RVD made a big comeback, culminating with a springboard thrust kick and a baseball slide that knocked Steiner to ringside. RVD hung Steiner up on the barrier and hit a spinning heel kick off of the apron.

Van Dam rolled Steiner back into the ring and Steiner hilariously called a timeout. RVD kept fighting but Steiner raked his eyes and hit a belly to belly suplex for a two count.

He threw RVD into the corner but Van Dam fought back with a spinning kick and Rolling Thunder for a two count. But Steiner fought back with power moves and hit a DDT on RVD with Van Dam's feet on the top rope.

That would have been the end, but the cover was too close to the ropes. Steiner nailed Van Dam with the Steinerliner and then dropped an elbow. But he inexplicably got mad at the ref, which allowed RVD to roll him up for the three count.

WINNER: ROB VAN DAM in 6:00

2- MISS TESSMACHER & TARA vs. Knockouts Tag Champions SARITA & ROSITA --- Knockouts Tag Championship

All four women fought in the ring early before dumping Tara to the floor. Eventually, ref Hebner took control. Sarita had a spiky leather mask on that was reminiscent of Abyss' gear.

Tara got knocked down to the floor multiple times in this match and she eventually ran in regardless of tag to jump Sarita. Hebner has thrown a lot of people out of the ring in this one.

Tara finally got back in and went for the Widow's Peak but a distracted Hebner didn't see Madison Rayne interfere. Eventually, Mexican America got in trouble when Tara hit a sit down power bomb to win the titles.

WINNERS & NEW KNOCKOUTS TAG CHAMPIONS: TARA & MISS TESSMACHER in 4:45

3- A.J. STYLES vs. MATT MORGAN vs. GUNNER vs. SAMOA JOE - BFG SERIES LADDER MATCH

Remember, the winner gets ten points. Right off the bat, Styles and Gunner went out to ringside while Joe and Morgan lined up in the ring. Morgan is wearing all white. Gunner threw a ladder into A.J. before Joe hit a running baseball slide to knock Gunner down.

Morgan and Joe fought over the ladder and knocked Gunner down in the process. Morgan clotheslined Joe down and took the ladder inside the ring.

A.J. got up to fight off Morgan, who caught him in the goozle. But A.J. literally flipped through the chokeslam and hit Morgan with the Pele Kick. But A.J. had no time to gloat as Gunner hit him with a slingshot suplex. Gunner then leveled Joe with the ladder.

Lots of fast action here. Samoa Joe caught Morgan with a suicide dive and left Gunner alone to climb the ladder. But Styles springboarded onto the other side and knocked him to the ground. A.J. then hit the Pele Kick on Joe.

More mayhem ensued that eventually ended up with Morgan hitting a big carbon footprint on Gunner and climbing to the top to grab the ten points.

WINNER: MATT MORGAN in 5:00 to earn 10 BFG Series Points

4- X Division Champion BRIAN KENDRICK vs. ALEX SHELLEY - X Division Title Match

High paced action early where Shelley used a variety of wrestling moves while Kendrick tried strikes. The crowd was split 50/50 with a dueling "Let's Go!" chants.

Kendrick ended Shelley's edge briefly with a high kick but Shelley blocked a Slice Bread attempt and kicked Kendrick down to regain control with a variety of submissions that led into a surfboard stretch.

Shelley followed that up with a pair of two counts off of a crossbody from the top turnbuckle. Shelley looks confident and crisp.

He went for another cross body and hit him in the chest with a drop kick. Both men recovered but Kendrick hit two high kicks on Shelley that knocked him to ringside and then followed it up with a suicide dive.

Kendrick tried hitting a splash from the top rope but Shelley got hit feet up and then climbed to the ring apron and hit what looked like a Sliced Bread move that knocked Kendrick silly.

Shelley tried to roll Kendrick into the ring and as the ref was checking on him, Austin Aries appeared and decked Shelley in the face with the title belt. A dazed Kendrick rolled over and got the three count victory.

WINNER: BRIAN KENDRICK in 5:30

After the match, Shelley sold being dazed while an exhausted-looking Kendrick tried to help him up. Meanwhile, Aries lounged happily on the ground at ringside, out of the referee's eyesight.

5- World Champion STING & KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON & BULLY RAY

Another match involving Immortal begins with someone getting jumped before the bell. Sting got isolated in the heel corner early as both men just started choking him at every chance. Immortal traded multiple tags while beating up on Sting.

Anderson focused on Sting's legs while keeping him away from Angle's corner. Ray tagged back in and continued the beatdown. Ray tried a leg drop off the 2nd rope like he was channeling Matt Hardy but he missed.

That allowed Sting to finally get a break and tag in Angle. Kurt hit four suplexes before going for the Olympic Slam. Ray hit the chop block to stop him but Sting got a 2nd wind and managed to take both men down with Stinger splashes.

With that, Angle hit the Olympic Slam on Anderson for the victory.

WINNERS: STING & KURT ANGLE in 3:50

After the match, Angle and Sting shook hands before pulling close and staring each other down. Tenay pumped Hardcore Justice as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 24 2011, 12:30 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51620.shtml). Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Booker said Christian deserved what he got after the match on Sunday, despite him doing nothing against the rules. He said Christian was hiding behind his legal team. Just over a minute in, Jackson pressed Christian over his head, pumped him up and down, then slammed him for a two-count. Jackson back-dropped Christian to the floor and Mathews asked whether or not Jackson could beat the World Champion as they went to break at 2:01 of the match.

Back at 6:02 of the match. Jackson was dominating Christian, no doubt with a combination of skill and concentration, but Christian got a drop-toe hold that sent Jackson into the steps. European uppercut off the middle rope by Christian for two. Let’s see if anyone mentions that this was the last match in ECW history. Jackson with a knee to the mid-section of Christian as some fans chanted “let’s go Christian.” Christian fired back and applied a rear chin-lock. Now “Zeke” chants. Jackson picked Christian up and gave him a Samoan drop. Clotheslines and knock-downs by Jackson, followed by a lateral press for two at 9:20. Another clothesline. Two bodyslams, then some flexing. Christian countered a third one and went after the knee. Killswitch blocked, so Christian applied a sleeper hold. Jackson put him on his shoulders and rammed Christian back-first into the buckle. Christian shoved Jackson shoulder-first into the ring post. Killswitch by Christian for the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 10:50. Christian did what he could to keep this together, but it really exposed how limited Jackson is. A champion lost again in a non-title situation, but Jackson didn’t come out look bad. He held his own.

2 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. HEATH SLATER

Cole continued to bash Bryan on commentary. Dropkick by Bryan, who went for the LeBell Lock early on. Slater got to the ropes to break. He went to ringside to regroup as they went to break 45 seconds into the match.

Back at 4:47, and Bryan took Slater down with an arm-drag. Bryan continued on the offense until Slater dodged a corner charge and landed a neck-breaker for two. Back elbow by Slater as Bryan came off the ropes. Hard whip into the buckle by Slater. Booker said Slater has the charisma of “a bowl of turnips.” Pin by Slater for two. Bryan flipped out of the corner and hit his running elbow at 8:22. Slater was back-dropped to ringside and Bryan got a running start, then jumped off the apron and kneed Slater in the face. The announcers were too busy arguing about Heath Slater’s nickname to actually portray that as a unique and cool move. Back in the ring, Slater came back with a spinebuster. The men traded inside cradles, and another pin attempt by Slater. Bryan applied a submission move, using a front face-lock. Slater tapped out.

WINNER: Bryan, at 10:52. Not a good start for Bryan as MITB winner if it takes him almost 11 minutes to finish off someone like Heath Slater, who has done nothing of note as of late.

3 – WADE BARRETT vs. SHEAMUS

Mathews announced that Sin Cara suffered fractured ribs and will be out at least four weeks. Barrett booted Sheamus down and got a two-count. Barrett used the ropes to take the punishment to Sheamus. He pulled Sheamus in from the apron and registered a two-count. Cole said that with D. Bryan in Booker’s Fave Five, he’s surprised Harvey Wippleman isn’t in there either. Irish Curse back-breaker by Sheamus for two. Big forearm to the chest of Barrett, then another. Sheamus ran the apron and kicked Barrett in the head for a two-count. The men brawled on the outside, each trading the upper hand. Sheamus was thrown into the barricade. Barrett lifted him and they went to the announce table as Charles Robinson’s count reached ten.

WINNER: Double count-out, at 4:29. Fine big man match, especially given their experience.

Barrett rolled Sheamus back into the ring, but Sheamus caught Barrett with a Brogue Kick. Testing the waters for a Sheamus face turn? They replayed some of the hard-hitting moments from ringside.

4 – RANDY ORTON vs. KANE – STREET FIGHT

Kane went on offense to start, but Orton got a boot up on a corner charge. Thesz Press, but Kane grabbed Orton by the throat. Orton fought out, and Kane dodged an RKO, clotheslining him over the top and to ringside. Kane and Orton fought up the ramp (no count-outs in a Street Fight). A Kendo stick came into play, with Orton walloping Kane with it. That appeared to please Orton. Cole said Orton “shows no absence of malice.” That sounds really scripted, too. Back in the ring, this time Kane dumped Orton out. Orton was thrown into the barricade at 3:10. They cut to break at 3:19.

Back at 7:05 with Kane hammering away on Orton with rights inside the squared circle. Orton got to a vertical base and started in on Kane with rights. He low-bridged Kane, who was sent to ringside in front of the announcers. Orton attempted an axe-handle off the apron, but Kane met him with an uppercut. Kane began to disassemble the announce desk. Kane wanted a chokeslam, but Orotn landed on his feet atop the table. He kicked Kane, but slid off the table and the table went on its side. Orton immediately grabbed his knee, then got to his feet and gave the Dikembe Mutombo finger shake. After sending Kane into the steps, the camera showed Orton on his knees in pain. He kept holding that right leg as he set Kane’s leg up on the bottom half of the steel steps. He then stomped he ankle and brought the top of the stairs down on Kane’s lower leg. Orton convalesced on the steps as they took another break at 11:14.

Show returned at 14:26 of the match. Kane was on offense inside the ring, limping around on the leg that Orton injured before break. Orton avoided a top rope attack from Kane, and then shoved him shoulder-first into the ring post. Mathews said during the break, doctors attempted to talk to Orton about his injury, but he shoved them off and wanted to continue. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton. He started getting the crazy eyes, then went down to ready for the RKO. Kane got to his feet, but Kane shoved off another RKO attempt. Sidewalk slam by Kane for two at 16:13. Kane went to the top again, and this time, the clothesline connected. Kane was about to go for the chokeslam, but instead, Orton RKO’d him out of nowhere. Kane kicked out. That’s surprising – kicking out of the RKO is usually reserved for PPVs. Orton lined up for the punt, but Kane got to his feet and chokeslammed Orton. Right into the cover, but Orton kicked out at 18:20. They went to yet another break at 18:45.

At 22:08, the show returned and Kane grabbed a chair from ringside. The chair was used on Orton’s abdominals and his back. Kane crouched and readied for the chokeslam…but instead, picked Orotn up for a Tombstone on the chair. Orton floated out the back and ran into a choke. Instead, RKO on the chair for the win.

WINNER: Orton, at 23:33. Pretty ambitious match for a guy Kane’s size and age, but give him credit for pulling it off.

Orton posed on the turnbuckle, then notice Kane getting back to his feet. Kane offered a hand and Orton shook it. That seemed to be the exact opposite feeling that Kane was going for in his pre-match promo. After replaying some key moments of the match, the camera stayed on Kane, who was on his feet in the ring. Orton had already headed backstage, and at this point, Mark Henry walked to the ring. Kane made the first move once Henry got into the ring, but Henry, with one kick to the leg, ended Kane’s brief offense. Henry brought Kane’s knee down onto the mat. World’s Strongest Slam followed. Big splash, then a “you suck” chant from the fans. Henry went over by the announcers, and they all fled in terror. Henry picked out a chair and put Kane’s leg in it. Referee Jack Doan pleaded with Henry to stop, but it was to no avail. Henry went to the second rope and gave Kane’s leg the Big Show treatment. Nice that they had set that up during the match with Orton, too. “I run the show!” shouted Henry to no one in particular. Referees tended to an injured Kane as we got a close-up of Henry, at ringside, yelling for Kane to “stay down” to close things out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 26 2011, 02:00 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51665.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE MIZ vs. REY MYSTERIO -- Finals of WWE Title tournament

Back-and-forth action early on as they were feeling each other out for a long-form match. Miz landed signature offense, then KO'ed Rey on the floor with a whip into the ring steps. They cut to a break at 4:30.

Back from break, Lawler said this isn't "some boring political rhetoric," but a WWE Title match between Miz and Mysterio. Miz was still working over Rey and scored a close nearfall. Cole stressed the importance of the match, saying Miz will "lead the charge" for WWE's future. Rey came back with a seated sentaun at 9:30, followed by a high cross-body for a close two count. Miz came back with a kick strike to the gut followed by a kneeling DDT for a two count of his own. Miz, frustrated, followed with two kick strikes to the face, but Rey kicked out again. Cole told Miz to calm down and take his time. Lawler said everyone around the world is waiting for this moment. Rey then came back with a 619 tease, but Miz avoided, then hit a sit-out powerbomb after bouncing Rey back-first off the top rope. Nice. It was good for a two count only. Miz collected himself, then stalked Rey for the Skullcrushing Finale, but Rey blocked. Miz then smashed his bad right knee into the turnbuckles, giving Rey an opening for a head scissors into the 619. The crowd roared as Rey climbed up top and delivered a flying splash. Rey with the cover and it was good for the win. Rey is the new WWE champion.

Backstage: They showed the babyface wrestlers and Divas applauding. R-Truth was annoyed. Back in the ring, Rey accepted the new WWE Title belt as the crowd continued to cheer wildly. Suddenly, Miz attacked Rey from behind on his "one good leg." The ref tried to get Miz out of the ring as Rey sold in the corner.

WINNER: Rey Mysterio at 13:18 to become new WWE champion. Good action and a hot start to the show. (**1/2)

Suddenly, as expected, Alberto Del Rio's music hit. Del Rio came down to ringside with the MITB briefcase in-hand and with a referee. Del Rio said he wanted to cash in right now, but Rey came flying over the top rope with a splash onto Del Rio. Del Rio then grabbed his briefcase and shouted he's not cashing in now. Cole noted Rey was victimized by the MITB cash-in (Kane) last year, and he's not falling for it again. Rey then re-celebrated in the ring as Del Rio recovered on the entrance ramp. After a replay of the Rey-Miz finish, Cole repeated it's not political rhetoric, but live action from WWE.

2 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

Cole said a victory for Bourne could put him in U.S. Title contention. Fast-paced action to start the match and Bourne cleared Ziggler to the floor with a leaping dropkick. Back in the ring, Bourne landed a kick strike, but missed with an enzuigiri and Ziggler responded with a rocker-dropper for a two count. As Ziggler worked over Bourne, Lawler talked up Bourne as a scrappy underdog who just oh so luckily finds a way to win matches. Lawler started off talking about Bourne as a wrestler worth getting behind, then found a way to define him down as a scrappy enhancement talent. Lawler added a political dig at Obama as Bourne scored a close nearfall. The two called a sequence after a bit of miscommunication, then set up the finish. Bourne went up top for Air Bourne, but Ziggler moved and nailed the Zig-Zag. Ziggler then scooped up Bourne and slapped on the sleeperhold. The ref called for the bell, giving Ziggler the submission win. Post-match: Ziggler called out to anyone in the locker room to follow that.

WINNER: Ziggler at 3:28. Good start, then an awkward ending. WWE isn't about to position the U.S. Title as anything more than a mid-card title, but they could be doing more with Ziggler. (*1/4)

3 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE vs. MELINA & MARYSE

The heels isolated Eve early on to set up Kelly's hot tag and comeback. The action broke down when Kelly mocked Maryse, then Kelly scored the decisive pinfall via rocker dropper on Melina.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 2:36. WWE is continuing to build up Kelly's profile as champ, while lining up no challengers to the title.

18 1/2 minutes of Triple H talking, the return of Jim Ross and John Morrison. Good stuff.

4 -- MICHAEL COLE vs. ZACK RYDER

Ryder quickly decked Cole, who stumbled across the ring. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder and it was over in less than 30 seconds. Ryder got a few seconds to shine in the post-match before the camera re-focused on Cole selling a frustrating night at the office.

WINNER: Ryder at 0:26. Not much shine for Ryder. It was more like WWE trying to "disarm" underground momentum behind Ryder by throwing his supporters a bone.

5 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

Del Rio aggressively went after Kofi to start the match. Kofi then tried to spin around Del Rio for a sunset flip bomb and they nearly tripped over themselves before Kofi scored a nearfall. Kofi knocked Del Rio to the floor moments later and Del Rio went running up the ramp when Kofi teased a suicide dive. They cut to break at 1:00 with Del Rio regrouping.

Del Rio was in control back from break. Del Rio then missed with a corner attack and Kingston sprung off the top rope with a cross-body splash for a two count. Kofi followed with the Boom Drop before setting up for Trouble in Paradise. Kingston sold a shoulder injury during the set up, though, and Del Rio ducked before delivering a single arm DDT for a two count. Suddenly, they traded close nearfalls near the ropes. The crowd thought Kofi scored a three count, but Del Rio grabbed the bottom rope just in time. Del Rio followed with a slingshot across the top rope before slapping on the cross arm-breaker. After the arm injury, Kofi had no choice but to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 7:17. Fine, competitive match giving Kofi a close nearfall to save face before Del Rio scored the decisive fall. It was your standard Del Rio match in terms of in-ring work. (*3/4)

6 -- WWE champion REY MYSTERIO vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match

A feeling-out process started things off as Lawler speculated on whether Cena knew he would be receiving a WWE Title shot tonight when he congratulated Mysterio on his title victory at the top of the show. The crowd started a dueling "Let's go Cena" / "Cena sucks" chant as Cena spilled to the floor. Lawler said Cena is a controversial figure and Ross said the bottom line is every seat is filled. On the floor, Rey and Cena avoided each other's offense before Cena delivered a knockdown clothesline that splattered Rey on the floor. Cena made a cover back in the ring, but Rey kicked out. Cena then grappled Rey from behind with a waistlock, trying to wear down the champion. Rey eventually countered with a bulldog for a two count.

Suddenly, Cena teased the STF, but Rey easily grabbed the ropes for a break. Rey then followed with a double springboard moonsault for a two count. Rey tried to follow with a 619, but Cena caught Rey and flowed into a powerslam for a two count. Cena then started his trademark comeback routine, but Rey dropkicked Cena in the shoulder to block the flying shoulder tackle. They traded moves, then Cena delivered a sit-out slam and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted the Attitude Adjustment, but Rey elbowed out. Rey then tried a springboard splash, but Cena caught him in mid-air. Rey quickly countered with an awkward-looking head scissors into a dropkick for a two count.

Both men recovered on the mat at the top of the hour as the crowd came to life anticipating a finish. Rey executed a top-rope sentaun, but Cena kicked out and tried the STF, but Rey countered into an STF of his own. It didn't look too pretty with the smallish Rey draping his arms across Cena's body. Rey tried to maintain the hold, but Cena powered to his feet and countered into AA position, but Cena's knees buckled. Cena sold a knee injury and Rey followed with the 619 as Cena tried to collect himself on the ropes. Rey then went up top for a signature splash, but Cena got his knees up to block.

The action reset as Cena sold a left knee injury. The crowd was fully invested at this point. Both men hobbled to their feet, selling injuries. Rey tried a top-rope huracanrana, but Cena threw Rey across the ring and Rey nearly landed on his neck. Dangerous spot. Cena then climbed up top for a guillotine leg drop and kind of connected for a two count on Rey. The crowd popped for the nearfall, then Cena collected himself and looked for more offense. Cena was the first man up and wanted the AA, but Rey elbowed out again. Rey then set up for a 619 again, but Cena scooped him right up into the AA. Cena made a quick cover and it was good for the win. Cena is new WWE champion.

WINNER: Cena at 12:52 to capture the WWE Title. They got it back where they wanted with Cena on top. The match was strong in terms of drama and crowd involvement, but some of the spots were off and they struggled with in-ring chemistry at times. Overall, good TV main event thanks to the drama & crowd. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2011, 01:48 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51708.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TITUS O'NEIL vs. DERRICK BATEMAN

The announcers noted this is Titus's contest to lose as the clear frontrunner to win. Grisham noted both Rookie's Pros are not present (Hornswoggle for Titus and Bryan for Bateman) and they're hanging out backstage watching carefully. Titus dominated early on, so Bateman bailed to the floor. Darren Young then walked down to encourage Bateman to get himself together.

Back from break, Regal was trying to make sense of why Young was in Bateman's corner after Bateman cost him his match last week. In the ring, Bateman was in control trying to wear down Titus. Grisham proposed the idea that perhaps Bateman and Young are trying to take out Titus from the competition since he's the favorite. A side headlock isn't going to cut it, which Titus easily escaped. Bateman resumed control of the match, then tried to finish the match with a top-rope move, but Titus easily avoided and mounted a comeback.

Titus delivered a stiff elbow, and the ref was momentarily distracted when Bateman rebounded out of the corner, which allowed Young to trip Titus from the outside. This set up Bateman to hit a bulldog of sorts for the pin and the win. Post-match: Young celebrated with Bateman and raised his hand in victory. Meanwhile, the announcers continued to try to figure out the Bateman and Young alliance.

WINNER: Bateman at 8:28. Basic NXT match. Bateman isn't getting over as a heel and the whole storyline seems to be lost on the audience.

2 -- TYSON KIDD vs. YOSHI TATSU -- Necklace on a Pole match

Kidd made an early lunge for the pole, but Yoshi yanked him down and landed a headbutt. They went back-and-forth during the first four minutes before taking the fight to the top turnbuckle below the pole. Kidd and Yoshi traded blows as if they were on top of a ladder in a ladder match, then knocked each other clear off the top turnbuckle to the floor below. They cut to break with both men selling.

Back from break, Kidd had Yoshi in a Liontamer inside the ropes. There's no rope break here, so Kidd was able to keep the hold locked in for as long as he wanted. Kidd then knocked Yoshi to the floor and tried a slow crawl to the pole, but Yoshi scrambled back into the ring to cut off Kidd. Yoshi landed multiple kick strikes to KO Kidd, then climbed the pole as the crowd roared, but Kidd crotched him at the last second. They battled up the pole and Yoshi reached up to grab the figure as Kidd executed a back suplex from the top rope. The ref unfolded Yoshi's hand and saw the figure in-hand, then called for the bell, giving Yoshi the win.

Yoshi celebrated as Regal said this (the effort in the ring, as opposed to the gimmick) is what made him proud to become part of this business. He said he hopes everyone in the back was watching to see how to up his or her game. Post-match: Kidd snapped on Yoshi, trying to take apart his left knee in the ring and out of the ring. Grisham questioned Kidd getting himself noticed this way. Kidd then wrapped Yoshi's legs around the ringpost with a classic Bret Hart figure-four. Multiple refs tried to break it up as Yoshi cried in pain. Kidd was then "rewarded" with his music playing as he flashed a heel smile toward the injured Yoshi. Kidd walked past the remnants of Yoshi's action figure before they replayed the finish.

WINNER: Yoshi at 10:16. Pretty decent gimmick match, with the crowd invested in the outcome. Kidd and Yoshi continue to keep themselves half-way relevant despite getting little TV time on the main shows.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2011, 01:49 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 7-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51744.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- HEATH SLATER vs. TRENT BARRETA

Trent quickly knocked Slater to the floor and landed a flip-dive that took its toll on both men. Back in the ring, Trent made a cover for a nearfall. Slater then took control of the action and scored a nearfall as they went to break. Moments before they cut to break, and after the announcers fed to break, a lone voice in the silent arena shouted, "Heath Slater, I hate you!"

Back from break, the wrestlers went back and forth as Korpela and Striker said Triple H will have some answers on the WWE Title situation tomorrow night on Smackdown and more answers will be available on Monday's Raw. Slater became frustrated with his inability to put away Barreta, which gave Trent another opening for a comeback. Trent then missed with a top rope corkscrew splash and that was all Slater needed to score with a reverse DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Slater at 7:44. It's just not there yet for Slater as a singles wrestler.

2 -- WWE tag champions NEW NEXUS (MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA) vs. SANTINO & CHRIS MASTERS -- non-title match

Scott Stanford noted Kozlov is still perplexed at Santino choosing a lot of different partners lately, and partners are lining up to team with Santino because he can "get it done" in the ring. Stanford also noted New Nexus is wearing a special oil to more easily slip out of the Masterlock. Per the Santino tag match formula, Santino teased the Cobra early on, but Otunga cleared him to the floor. On the outside, Mike landed a knockdown clothesline that put Santino in trouble heading to break.

Back from break, Stanford reset the action that Nexus is looking to avenge last week's loss to Santino and Zack Ryder. The heels continued to wear down Santino in the process of trying to prove their point. Santino escaped Mike with a jawbreaker and made the hot tag to Masters, who ripped off a series of chops followed by a flying elbow smash. Masters then executed a spinebuster and Otunga broke up the pin. Santino re-emerged with a Socko-like "enhancer" to his Cobra, which he used to the back of Otunga's head. Masters then tried the Masterlock, but Mike slipped out via The Oil. Mike followed with a running neckbreaker on Masters for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: New Nexus at 7:38. Fine tag action, but New Nexus needs a new identity outside of the Nexus brand. As for Masters, he was being built up ever-so-slightly on Superstars for a while, then missed a month of TV, and is now back to being just another muscle guy.

3-- JACK SWAGGER vs. ALEX RILEY

Swagger toyed with Riley early on, using his amateur wrestling background to ground and frustrate Riley. Swagger then took the action to the floor, where he ran Riley shoulder-first into the guardrail. They cut to break with Swagger in complete control.

Swagger was still in control as Stanford relayed Riley's goal to eventually become WWE champion. Riley tried to mount a comeback, but Swagger cut him off with a clothesline. Swagger took his time following up, which gave Riley another opening to mount offense. Riley scored with a spinebuster, then did some weird gimmick pretending to throw a grenade in the air before delivering what Stanford referred to as an "A-Bomb" elbow drop. Is that his John Cena shuffle move they hope catches on with the audience?

Swagger came back with a final attempt to win via Vader Bomb and anklelock attempt, but Riley whipped Swagger into the turnbuckle. Riley followed with a running dropkick to the face before executing a spike DDT center ring. Riley with the pin for the win. Mathews suggested it was a bit of an upset for Riley. After a replay of the finish, they cut back to Riley celebrating on the way out of this week's show.

WINNER: Riley at 9:32. Fine singles match they even-stevened with Swagger dominating about six or seven minutes of the match. Riley doing this grenade bit, even in the post-match celebration, seems a bit...off.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2011, 01:50 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51748.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. GUNNER -- Bound for Glory Series Match

-Tenay noted they'd have an update later on the status of Matt Morgan in the tournament.

-In the end, RVD slipped out of Gunner's attempt at his finisher, then hit a long-distance Five-Star Frogsplash for the win.

WINNER: RVD in 6:00 to earn 7 points.

2 -- BULLY RAY vs. CRIMSON -- Bound for Glory Series Match

-Tazz said a veteran like Ray can chop down a young rookie on a hot streak like Crimson.

-Ray jumped Crimson at the bell. He stayed on him relentlessly. Tenay said it was unfamiliar territory for Crimson to be on the defensive several minutes into the match. Tenay said his undefeated streak is at risk.

-Crimson at 4:00 hit the Red Sky sitout powerbomb out of nowhere for the win. Ray looked on in disbelief as Crimson celebrated at ringside.

WINNER: Crinson in 4:00.

3 -- WINTER (w/Angelina Love) vs. TARA (w/Miss Tessmacher)

-Before the bell rang, ref Earl Hebner ordered Tessmacher and Love to the back.

-In the end, Tara lifted Winter for a powerbomb and apparently Hebner got hit in the face with a boot. Winter then gave Tara a low blow mule kick (the faked boos were dubbed in here) followed by a spinning backbreaker for the win. Everything about that finishing sequence screamed "Take 2."

WINNER: Winter in 3:00.

4 -- BRIAN KENDRICK vs. ABYSS -- Ultimate X Match for the X Division Title

-Kendrick attacked early, but Abyss grounded him and then looked up at the belt hanging from the crossed cables above him. He began to climb the truss, but wasn't eager to move to the cables. Kendrick recovered and went after Abyss again.

-At 4:00 Kendrick climbed his up and began to get near the belt, but Abyss yanked him down. A minute later Kendrick took Abyss down and climbed up to grab the belt, but as he grabbed it, Abyss yanked him down.

-When Abyss lifted Kendrick into the air in a powerbomb position, Kendrick was high enough to reach up and grab the belt to win the match.

WINNER: Kendrick in 5:00 to retain the X Division Title.

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- Cage Match

-They joined the match just under way as Tenay and Taz said this isn't even an official match because Sting had no actual authority to make the match.

-After several minutes of back and forth action and some near falls, Angle kicked out after a Mic Check at 5:00. Anderson tried to escape the cage, but Angle grabbed Anderson's ankle. Anderson kicked Angle off of him and then clotheslined him.

-When Anderson climbed to escape over the cage, Angle met him on top and suplexed him to the mat. That was good for a two count. Immortal ran down the ramp and brawled with Fortune at ringside. Mexican America joined in, siding with Immortal. Bully Ray hid at ringside as Angle dropped his straps and waited for Anderson to stand. Ray yanked at Angle's singlet from the camera hole in the cage. Anderson hit him from behind. Anderson then ordered Ray to do his job and give him a chair. Ray opened the cage door and asked Anderson what he called him. Anderson said, "Sweetheart." They argued and yanked on the chair. Angle then got up and gave Anderson an Angle Slam for the win.

WINNER: Angle in 8:00.

-As Angle celebrated, his music was cut off by Sting's. Sting met Angle in the cage for a staredown. Then he raised Angle's arm into the air and reminded him of their match in ten days at Hardcore Justice as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2011, 01:51 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Park's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51774.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. JOHN MORRISON

Truth was shown watching the match on a monitor backstage. Christian was taken to the outside early on, and had to get Morrison to back up to get in the ring. I’m surprised they gave away Morrisons’ return match with such little fanfare, but then again, they probably don’t think Morrison will move the needle anyway. Still, it makes the guy seem like a big deal when you advertise his return ahead of time. Flying Chuck kick by Morrison for two at 1:22. Morrison dove onto Christian on the outside of the ring. He went back in as the ref admonished him and they went to break at 1:58 of the match.

Back at 6:20 with Christian in control. They showed Christian shoving Morrison back (and neck) first into the barricade. Morrison avoided a Tornado DDT and came back with clotheslines and a jumping leg kick. Flap jack by Morrison after Christian dodged Moonlight Drive. Spinebuster by Christian for two. C4 by Morrison for two, but he clutched his neck after the pin attempt. Out of nowhere, Spear by Christian for a near-fall. At 10:00, the two men fought on the top rope. Morrison landed a back body-drop. He tried a moonsault and landed on his feet when Christian moved (well, he didn’t exactly stick the landing). Christian brought Morrison neck first over the top rope, then hit the Killswitch for the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 10:35. Had to think Christian would win here, but not sure why they had him go over Morrison, who looked a bit rusty.

2 – NATALYA & KAITLYN & AJ vs. ALICIA FOX & ROSA MENDES & TAMINA

Natalya tried a crucifix roll-up, but Tamina held on. Tamina kicked her off on a Sharpshooter attempt, then gave her a Samoan drop. Fox, with a new hairdo this week, put Nattie in a head-scissors. Natalya, still in the move, got to her feet, then dropkicked Fox when she was stuck in the Tree of Woe. AJ made the hot tag and took Fox down with a headscissors. Running knee to the face, but a pin attempt was broken up by the heels. They were taken out by the other faces. Fox walked into an elbow in the corner, but AJ missed a cross-body block. Scissors kick by Fox (quite ugly) picked up the win. Cole said AJ was wearing argyle out of the Kerwin Silfies collection. Silfies is a director on WWE TV programming.

WINNERS: Fox, Rosa, and Tamina, at 2:12. Hard for Kaitlyn and Rosa to improve when they don’t get to see action, short as the matches are.

3 – MARK HENRY vs. BOBBY HOWARD

Howard looked the part of a nervous jobber in the ring. Henry grabbed Howard by the throat, lifted him up, and dropped him down. World’s Strongest Slam by Henry. Then another. Then a back-breaker for the win.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:06. See, squash matches CAN be effective.

Henry went to ringside after the match and grabbed a chair from ringside. He set up Howard to destroy his ankle, as he had done to Show and Kane. Long’s music played and Teddy ran to the ring to stop Henry. He said they go way back, but Henry can’t compete anymore. Henry yelled that he wants competition and said, “this is the trash you bring me?” Long said there’s already a lawsuit pending and he can’t let him do this. Then Sheamus’ music hit and he walked to the ring. Now this is how you can turn a guy babyface.

Sheamus took the mic from Long and volunteered to fight Henry. Sheamus said Henry is just big, and after all, Henry even said bigger isn’t better. Sheamus told the story about a high King of Ireland who had an illegitimate son. He said a fairy once came and tapped the bastard on the shoulder, turning him into a 420 pound bag of crap, that being Henry. Crowd chanted for Sheamus. Henry said Sheamus talks to much so Sheamus decked Henry. Henry paused, then charged at Sheamus, who low-bridged Henry out of the ring. Sheamus held Henry at bay with a chair, so a frustrated Henry threw the top of the ring steps at the ropes. Henry decided to survive and fight another day, so he headed to the back as Sheamus’ music played. Nicely done here.

4 – THE USOS vs. THE NEW NEXUS – WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Double elbow-drop by the Usos early on. Michael McGillicutty took over, then tagged David Otunga. A roll up by Jimmy Uso for two. Otunga settled into a rear chin-lock at 1:15 of the match. Jimmy tossed him into the ropes and connected on a heel kick. Both men made tags and Jey took it to McGillicutty. Booker complained of the lack of quick tags, 1:46 into the match. Otunga broke up a pin, then hurled Jimmy off the apron and to the floor. Jey went to the top for a splash, but Otunga, with the ref’s attention diverted, knocked Jey off the top rope. McGillicutty with a neck-breaker for the win.

WINNERS: New Nexus, at 2:31. That’s almost insulting that a tag title match would go that short, especially since it seems like they’ve been building up the Usos lately.

5 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE – HANDICAP MATCH

Cody’s baggers were ever-present before the match. DiBiase and Rhodes did some double-teaming at the start, but Jackson knocked’em both down. DiBiase got Jackson down and choked him in the bottom rope. Neck-breaker by DiBiase. Teddy Jr. got shaken up and tagged Rhodes in. Multiple bodyslams by Zeke, then he put Cody in the Torture Rack. DiBiase broke it up and was thrown over the top rope for his troubles. Rhodes tried his finisher but Jackson shrugged it off. DiBiase distracted Jackson, who ended up missing a corner charge. Cross Rhodes on Jackson for the win.

WINNERS: Rhodes and DiBiase, at 2:25. Again, seemed a little short for where these three are in the feud.

6 – R-TRUTH vs. RANDY ORTON

A few shoulderblocks too Truth down as Booker touted Orton’s “professionalism” inside the ring. Is this the same Orton whose character is that he can’t control himself and often goes too far? Jumping heel kick got two for Truth at 1:35 of the match. The fight went to the outside, and Truth got the best of that exchange. “R-Truth sucks” chant from the Philly crowd. On the apron, Truth poked Orton in the eyes, then brought him down over the top rope with a stunner. Jaw-breaker by Truth inside the ring for a two-count. Christian came out to get a closer look at the match at 3:26, and they went to break at 3:37.

Back at 7:15 of the match, with Orton beginning a comeback. However, it was brief, as Truth connected on his Lie Detector for two. Truth came off the top and was nailed in the mid-section by Orton. He got a boot up on a Truth charge and Orton steamrolled him with clotheslines. Rope-assisted DDT at 9:48 of the match. He set up for an RKO. Truth and Orton instead went to ringside. Christian got on the apron on the other end of the ring so the ref couldn’t see Truth hit Orton in the head with a water bottle. Truth went into the ring as Orton stayed on the outside, water bottle in hand. He took a sip, then entered the ring and tackled Truth. Orton rolled to ringside and grabbed a chair. Christian was already headed up the ramp when Orton connected on a chair-shot to the mid-section of Truth, drawing a DQ.

WINNER: Truth, via disqualification, at 11:30.

After the match, Orton began to take apart the announce table. He knocked Truth in the head with one of the monitors, and you could see he was bleeding a bit from the lip. Christian was shown watching atop the ramp, covering his mouth in shock. Orton RKO’d Truth on the announce table – it didn’t break. Orton got to the bottom of the ramp as Christian uneasily held the title. Orton put his hand on his head (Cole assumed he was hearing voices). Well, he was…the crowd chanted “one more time.” Orton adhered to the crowd’s demands and RKO’d Truth a second time on the table. Again, it did not break. His music then played as he alternated between smiling and frowning, while Christian clutched his title close to his chest on top of the ramp as the show closed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 02 2011, 01:54 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51822.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

- CM Punk opened up RAW along with Triple H for the first 20 minutes...

1 -- #1 CONTENDER DIVAS BATTLE ROYAL

Divas champion Kelly Kelly was on commentary, creating a four-person booth to fight over airtime during the first two minutes. The bell sounded and participants from the Raw and Smackdown women's rosters started flying out of the ring. With it down to a near-Final Four, they cut to break at 1:55.

The Bellas, Eve, and Beth were still in the match back from break. The Bellas eliminated Eve, then celebrated as if they won, but Beth eliminated them to win the match. Afterward, Beth celebrated the win and Kelly joined her in the ring, but Beth turned heel with an attack on Kelly. Beth then grabbed the mic and told Kelly her title run is over.

WINNER: Phoenix at 7:12 to become #1 contender - Kelly vs. Beth at Summerslam. Exit Kharma and (finally) Enter Beth.

2 -- THE MIZ & R-TRUTH vs. JOHN MORRISON & REY MYSTERIO

The bell sounded and Cole picked up the social media plugs again, telling viewers to vote on who should be real WWE champion, which could influence Hunter's decision later in the show. Continuing the "appearance of change" theme, Cole is handling most of the commentary, with Lawler adding color, and Ross adding a few comments here and there. As the match progressed, it shifted to Ross handling the wrestling play-by-play and Cole handling the social media/announcement aspect by continuing to plug Miz's presence in pop culture last week. The match went to break at 2:10 after the faces cleared the heels to the floor with some high-flying offense.

Back from break, the heels were working over Rey after taking control during the match. Ross tried to stress the value of the WWE Title by discussing Rey's rollercoaster night last week when he won and lost the WWE Title. Prior to that, WWE completely missed that "human interest" story after Rey's promo wanting to take the title back home to his family last week. Cole continued to plug Twitter items from WWE as they reached the top of the hour with Rey still in trouble.

Mysterio continued to take a beating from Miz and Truth as they reached 10:00. Miz then tried a top rope move, but Rey intercepted Miz with a mid-air dropkick. Morrison then hot-tagged as Truth tagged in. Morrison got some of Truth before clearing Miz to the floor. Morrison scored a nearfall following a standing Flux Capacitor before positioning Truth in the corner.

Morrison wanted Starship Pain, but Miz pulled Truth out of the way. Rey then splashed Miz on the floor to take him out. Back in the ring, Morrison with an A.J. Styles-style Pele Kick on Truth. It positioned Truth for the 619, but Miz yanked Rey to the floor and tossed him over the guardrail. The crowd was hot before Morrison KO'ed his former partner with a step-up enziguiri. Truth then surprised Morrison with his finisher and it was good for the win. Cole framed it as Miz sacrificing himself for the good of the team.

Post-match: Miz, holding his jaw to sell the kick from Morrison, then grappled Morrison from behind and delivered the Skullcrushing Finale. Ross called it uncalled for. Cole said it's 2011 and that doesn't matter. More of that third theme that Raw doesn't have True North on the compass to set up heels to get heat and faces to overcome injustices. Ross added to the show helps, but Cole taking over commentary washes out Ross's voice. Truth then brought in his Steel Water Bottle to smash Morrison in the face to add insult to injury. Miz and Truth celebrated to conclude the segment.

WINNERS: Miz & Truth at 11:04. One of those Raw matches with a good dose of athleticism to excite the crowd, not amounting to much more than a self-contained segment, and giving the announcers a chance to talk up pop culture. (**)

3 -- WWE tag champions DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY vs. ZACK RYDER & SANTINO -- non-title match

The heel tag champs worked on Santino early on, prompting a "We want Ryder" chant from the vocal males. Cole said Ryder is the self-proclaimed Internet champion and he spent $1,500 on his own title belt. He said it's as goofy as Lawler buying his own crown. Lawler asked Cole about speaking into a microphone and calling himself a broadcaster. Ryder hot-tagged into the match, which drew a reaction, then Ryder delivered a Broski Boot as Cole continued to heel on Ryder. Santino tried to get involved with his Socko-like Cobra, but was cleared to the floor. Mike then blocked a Rough Ryder as Ross strategically referred to Mike's background, noting he has good DNA. Moments later, Otunga scored a pin on Ryder to douse more water on Ryder.

WINNERS: Otunga & Mike at 2:25. More of that "appearance of change" getting Ryder in a match on Raw, but not doing anything with him.

4 -- EVAN BOURNE vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

Bourne scored with an early head scissors as Cole continued to heel on Ross for being "special guest" for a few weeks before Summerslam. Lawler shot back he's permanent. Cole then talked up Del Rio's resume, including he's a former mixed martial artist. Heel Cole continued to engage Dated Lawler before Ross tried to bring the focus back to the match. And back to Cole vs. Lawler. Meanwhile, Bourne tried to fire back on Del Rio with kick strikes before quickly going up top. Bourne was then intercepted by Del Rio, who dropped Bourne with an enziguiri. Del Rio then followed right up with the cross arm-breaker center-ring. Bourne had no choice but to tap out after fighting for five seconds.

Post-match, Del Rio celebrated the win before pointing down to Bourne to gloat. Del Rio wasn't done, though, and reapplied the arm-breaker on Bourne. Ross asked if Del Rio is trying to prove a point. Kofi Kingston, in street clothes, then stormed the ring and chased Del Rio, who quickly left the ring. Kingston called out to Del Rio to come get some before checking on Bourne.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 3:39. Basic storytelling to reinforce Del Rio as a viable threat to the WWE champion, whoever that turns out to be.

- Final segment of the show was Triple H determining that John Cena will wrestle CM Punk for the undisputed championship at SummerSlam (another 15 minutes or so of talking).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 01:37 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-2-11

In-ring results: PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_51847.shtml)

1 -- JTG vs. KOZLOV

Kozlov completely dominated early on, toying with JTG while having fun with his costume. JTG then punched Kozlov in the mouth, which turned happy-fun-time into Kozlov-beats-up-JTG time. Kozlov knocked JTG into the corner and they cut to break

Back from break, JTG was in control and executed a flying dropkick. Kozlov's undershirt became torn up in the process of JTG working him over. Kozlov, with some blood on his nose, suddenly got that crazy look in his eyes and made his full comeback. Kozlov eventually finished off JTG with the Iron Curtain for the pin and the win. JTG's music hit and Kozlov did some dancing to celebrate. He wasn't done, as Kozlov grabbed Grisham's cell phone ringside. Kozlov, with big MMA gloves on, managed to take a picture of himself planking on JTG's lifeless body.

WINNER: Kozlov at 7:40. It is what it is with Koz. As Greg Parks said in his real-time Twitter stream, it's WWE's version of trying to make Lance Storm or Dean Malenko seem interesting. I guess it beats Kozlov vs. Hunter for 15 boring minutes in the ring.

2 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle and A.J.) & MATT STRIKER vs. DERRICK BATEMAN & DARREN YOUNG

Titus worked against his fellow Rookies for the first 90 seconds before Striker tagged in and aggressively went after Bateman. Regal said it's an old thing where you always bring your gear to the building because you never know. Striker executed a dropkick as Grisham knocked Striker's win/loss record. Meanwhile, Hornswoggle wanted a sip from the 7-Eleven cup sitting on the announce desk. Swoggle then grunted and moaned, according to Grisham, as Grisham suggested Swoggle could be a jockey because he's so small. Regal noted he's a bit flummoxed. "Heh?" Swoggle asked. Grisham mercifully went to commercial with Bateman on the floor following a clothesline from Titus.

Back from break, Swoggle and A.J. were playing games with food as Regal tried to get them to leave him alone. Meanwhile, Striker and Young traded holds as Striker tried to turn back the clock. The heels then settled into an extended beating on Striker, while taunting Titus in the process. The crowd became angered as Regal noted the lactic acid is starting to build up in Striker to slow him down. Grisham added he saw Striker put down three pieces of chocolate cake at catering earlier today. The announcers eventually threw a question A.J.'s way, but cut her off when Striker nearly scored a sudden pin before D-Young cut him off again. A.J. kept talking as Swoggle looked on with puppy-dog eyes. Regal asked them if they need the number to his therapist.

At 10:25, Striker finally made the hot tag to Titus, who cleaned house with clotheslines over and over again. Titus then executed a powerslam on Young for a two count as Young visibly called a spot mid-cover. The action broke down moments later, then Young found himself in harm's way taking the sky-high bomb from Titus for the pin and the win. Ringside, Swoggle and A.J. clapped it up while Titus hugged it out with Striker in the ring. All four then celebrated in the ring as Regal said all of the kids are overjoyed at this joyous occasion. Grisham said it's like the finish of a Lifetime movie. Greatest Line Ever. The four continued to celebrate in the ring as the show ended.

WINNERS: Titus & Striker at 11:18. Oh, NXT. Regal made this watchable with his latest dose of superior commentary. Nothing on this show matters and, yet, they continue to stall for time until the next elimination/conclusion of the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 01:38 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-4-11

In-ring results: PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_51875.shtml)

1 -- ALICIA FOX vs. KAITLYN

The announcers played up a back-story of Fox having a problem with and trying to hold down newer women's wrestlers on the roster. Korpela described Kaitlyn as "brawny," prompting a paper towel comment from Striker in response. Korpela added that she squats over 300 pounds. Fox went to work on the rookie Diva as the crowd sat quietly. Meanwhile, Striker and Korpela continued to discuss the Cena vs. Punk match and Striker suggested they could see a new side of Cena at Summerslam not seen before. More methodical pace in the ring as the crowd tried to rally behind Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn was never able to sustain an offensive comeback and Fox finished her off with a scissors kick for the win.

WINNER: Fox at 5:18.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. PAT SILVA

Striker said Clay represents the New WWE - "bigger, badder, and better." Clay clubbed on Silva with repeated kicks and stomps as Striker alluded to Tyson Kidd's old managerial storyline that if Clay is looking for representation, he's available. Korpela said Clay is tired of being a bodyguard and he believes it's his time. Clay eventually finished off poor Silva with a flying splash - labeled the Fall of Humanity - for the pin and the win. Striker called him the future of WWE.

WINNER: Clay at 1:56. Effective squash getting over all of Clay's signature offense. The theme music needs work, though.

3 -- KOZLOV vs. PRIMO

The bell sounded and JTG joined the announcers on commentary to explain his issue with Kozlov. This prompted a discussion of planking, then whether Stanford is more gangster than Mathews. In the ring, Kozlov delivered a head butt that sent Primo reeling to the floor. Back in the ring, Kozlov easily tossed Primo around and continued to give him a beating. Primo then found an escape route with a chopblock and began working over the left knee. On commentary, JTG encouraged Primo as he went for a top-rope move, but Kozlov met Primo with a mid-air headbutt. Kozlov made the cover and it was good for the win, much to JTG's chagrin. JTG noted he wasn't impressed. Kozlov then flashed a look toward JTG before strutting in the ring after his win.

WINNER: Kozlov at 3:42. A little stretch for NXT "cross-promoting" the two domestic online shows. Otherwise, standard Kozlov fare.

4 -- CHRIS MASTERS vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger became frustrated early on when his amateur wrestling offense couldn't secure a pin, so he bailed to the floor for a breather. Meanwhile, the announcers stressed Swagger's desire to get back to the mountaintop after tasting the World Title last year. Unrelated, Stanford noted he's trying to get some information out of Masters on "dating an A-List celebrity." Stanford dated himself a decade by listing the female cast from "Friends" as guesses he ventured, but Masters "remained tight-lipped." As Masters went to work on Swagger, Stanford said both men are looking to move up the ladder under Triple H's new regime. Swagger then popped Masters across the back of the neck with a forearm smash before starting an attack on the neck/upper back. Both men were selling the effects of the match as Stanford fed to break.

Back from break, Swagger was parading around in the ring as the crowd showed their displeasure. The two men went back and forth before Swagger went for the left knee to try to take Masters off his feet. More gloating and stalling from Swagger instead of following up on Masters, who was then able to tease the Masterlock. However, Swagger escaped, but walked into a Samoan Drop. Masters then made his comeback with a clothesline and spinebuster for a two count. Swagger cut off Masters, then went for the running Vader Bomb, but Masters blocked. Masters teased the Masterlock again, but Swagger countered into the Anklelock. After the work on the knee, Masters had no choice but to tap out.

WINNER: Swagger via submission at 11:45. Solid back-and-forth match. It was also quite noticeable during this long-form match how much Stanford has improved on commentary since becoming Raw's Superstars announcer several months ago. He sounds much more polished and knowledgeable of the in-ring product compared to when he started out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 01:40 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 8-4-11 (next 2 posts)

In-ring results: PWTorch.com (direct link to Bax' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_51897.shtml)

1- MADISON RAYNE vs. MISS TESSMACHER

Madison was still yelling at Tara as the bell rang, so Tessmacher jumped her early and did her much more visually pleasant version of the stinkface right off the bat.

But from there, Madison Rayne took control and slammed her down by her hair. Madison kept slamming her face into the mat and then stood up to scream at Mickie James. While she had her back turned, Tessmacher rolled her up for a pinfall win.

WINNER: MISS TESSMACHER in 1:30

After the match, Madison got up and assaulted Tessmacher. Mickie went to help her but Angelina Love attacked her on the ramp. Mickie got the better of James but then Winter came in and knocked Mickie over. Angelina held Mickie's hands behind her back and Winter decked her in the face with the belt. Winter taunted the unconscious Mickie as commercial hit.

2- A.J. STYLES vs. DEVON - Bound For Glory Series Match

The match started with the announcement that Styles, Daniels and Kaz would be facing Steiner, Gunner and Abyss at Hardcore Justice. Lots of stalling early as the crowd chanted for both men.

When things got going, both men traded counters before A.J. Styles hit his drop down, leapfrog, dropkick combo. But Devon fought back as The Pope walked out to ringside to sit with Devon's kids. Devon regained control with a spinning elbow but then he saw Pope at ringside and got distracted.

When he got back in the ring, AJ moved out of the way of a splash and put Devon into an armbreaker. Devon had to fight out and made it to the ropes. Both men continued to trade hands before A.J. hit a Pele Kick for a near fall.

But as A.J. stood up, he saw Christopher Daniels sitting at ringside and was his turn to be distracted. When he got back to the ring, he missed his springboard and tweaked his knee, which allowed Devon to get the quick rollup that A.J. kicked out of just after the three count.

WINNER: DEVON in 3:30 to earn 7 Bound For Glory points

After the match, Devon reluctantly went to ringside to see the Pope, who Tenay informed the audience would be facing him in a BFG Series Match at Hardcore Justice. Meanwhile, Daniels and Styles argued their way back up the ramp as Daniels said that A.J. had been avoiding him for two weeks.

3- SAMOA JOE vs. THE POPE - BFG Series Match

Morgan made a nice observation about Pope's amateur boxing background and Joe's temperment as the in-ring action started slowly. Once things got going, Pope's quickness was enough to hit a dropkick and a pair of arm drags to put Joe in a submission.

Joe fought back but Pope got out of the ring, causing Joe to chase him. This caught Joe with an Atomic Drop and some quick strikes to take Joe down. Great commentary from Morgan in this match, saying that the second Joe got a submission on, things would be over.

Devon made his way down to the ring but Joe transferred an arm drag into a Cochita Clutch and choked out Pope to win the match.

WINNER: SAMOA JOE via submission in 2:30 to win 10 BFG Series Points

Joe wouldn't let go after the match and Devon held his kids back from helping Pope. The ref warned Joe to let go and when he didn't he overturned the decision.

WINNER: THE POPE via DQ in 2:30 to win 3 BFG Series Points

Samoa Joe chased the ref backstage but he ran into the camera instead. He started channeling CM Punk as he said he understood now that the people in charge didn't want him anywhere near the Championship. He accused them of putting him into ladder matches, 3 way matches and putting crooked refs into his one vs. one matches. Joe said from this point now, the blood was on their hands.

4- BOBBY ROODE (w/ James Storm) vs. HERNANDEZ (w/ Anarquia, Rosita & Sarita) --- Street Fight

Roode came in like a house of fire and took Hernandez down multiple times with clotheslines before clotheslining him over the top rope. While Hernandez was down, Roode hit a slingshot splash onto him at ringside.

Roode then went to get a chair and hit Hernandez in the gut and across the back with it. roode threw more weapons into the ring before smashing a trash lid over Hernandez's head.

But Hernandez fought back and threw Roode face first into the steel post. He got a two count on the floor before grabbing the trash lid and hitting Roode. He threw Roode back into the ring and then hit a slingshot shoulder block to take Roode down.

Hernandez then took his belt off and smashed it over Roode's back twice before wrapping the belt around Roode's neck. But Roode fought back with punches before Hernandez clotheslined him down and smashed a trash can onto him for a two count.

Roode rolled to ringside, where Hernandez tossed him into the steel ring steps, hitting with his shoulder first. Back in the ring, Roode fought back with the trash can lid and felled Hernandez into the corner. When Roode charged him, he got a foot up into Roode's gut.

Hernandez pulled himself to the top but Roode pegged him in the head with a trash can and hit a big superplex. After both men got back up, Roode decked Hernandez thrice with a Kendo stick, the third time right between the eyes. Roode then hit his second rope neckbreaker onto Hernandez for a two count.

Hernandez was cut wide open and Roode held his arm 6:00 into this very physical match. Roode went for a shoulder block but Hernandez used his power to block him across the ring. Hernandez went for the Border Toss but Roode countered out and hit the RR Spinebuster.

He then locked in the Fujiwara Armbar that he used to hurt Ric Flair and it was enough to get him to tap. The issue was that the ref was distracted by Rosita on the ring apron and didn't see it. James Storm tried to come over to help the ref but Anarquia hit him in his injured back.

Roode no-sold a Kendo Stick shot from Sarita but when he chased her out of the ring, Hernandez rolled him up from behind and put his feet up on the rope to pull out the victory.

WINNER: HERNANDEZ in 7:15
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 01:40 pm
5- AUSTIN ARIES vs. ALEX SHELLEY

Aries jumped Shelley off the bat, which will drive Wade Keller nuts, because instead of breaking it up and forcing Aries back to give Shelley a chance at a fair match, the ref just rang the bell. This has been way too common recently.

I had a feed outage right after Aries hit a slingshot slam to the outside and didn't get it back for a minute or two. I heard Tenay say that a big batch of new X Division talent would debut next week before Alex Shelley hit a spinning figure four leglock on Aries that he barely snuck to the ropes. Shelley went for a figure four again but Aries escaped and guillotined Shelley to ringside.

While Shelley was holding his head, Aries came off the top rope to ringside and hit him in the back of the head. He rolled Shelley back into the ring and went for three consecutive failed pin attempts.

Aries then pulled Shelley up to the top turnbuckle but Shelley pushed him off. Shelley hit a single leg kick that knocked Aries to ringside before a suicide dive took him down. Shelley rolled him in and went for the foot stop but missed. Lots of fast-paced action in this one.

Aries threw Shelley to ringside and put on his leather jacket to mock him. He acted like he was going to hit him with the spikes on the shoulder before ref Hebner took the jacket away. Shelley kicked him in the gut and went for Sliced Bread but Aries threw Shelley into the turnbuckle and immediately put Shelley into position for the Brainbuster, which he hit and was enough for the three count victory.

WINNER: AUSTIN ARIES in 5:55

Immediately after the match, Aries grabbed a microphone. "I beat you fair and square with a nice clean wrestling maneuver! How does that fit into your ethic?" yelled Aries. He stomped Shelley before Kendrick came into make the save.

6- SCOTT STEINER & GUNNER vs. RVD & CRIMSON - Bound For Glory Series Match

RVD and Steiner started in the ring but there was a lot of early stalling as Steiner taunted the crowd that was chanting RVD's name. RVD surprised Steiner with a body scissor before Steiner took him down and took him into the corner.

Steiner hit big chops as the crowd chanted "Steiner sucks!" before he tossed RVD into the corner. Van Dam floated over and kicked Steiner in the face but as he played to the crowd, Steiner came up from behind and hit him with a full Nelson slam.

Gunner got tagged in and actually kept fast pace with RVD, who hit an impressive leg sweep/standing Moonsault combination. RVD tagged in Crimson, who got distracted with Steiner and allowed Gunner to fight him off.

Steiner tagged in and hit some big chops before nailing a big suplex on Crimson. He taunted Van Dam before Steinerlining Crimosn and hitting him with an elbow drop into his pushups.

Gunner came back in and hit a backdrop for a two count. He climbed up top to go for the double sledge, but Crimson stopped him and hit his old finisher from his independent days where he spun him around his body into an impressive DDT.

Steiner and RVD both tagged in and Steiner hit a powerful suplex that threw Van Dam into the ropes. Van Dam fought back and hit a kick and Rolling Thunder.

RVD went for his spinning heel kick onto Steiner while he was hung up on the barrier but Gunner knocked him off the apron. But Crimson speared him and RVD hit the 5 Star Frog Splash. But he had barely hit it when Steiner came in and DDT'd him.

Steiner dumped Crimson out of the ring before going for the cover on RVD. He got a two count and decided to go high risk. Steiner put RVD on the top turnbuckle for the Frankensteiner but Crimson came out of nowhere to hit the Electric Chair Drop.

RVD recovered as Crimson was pulled out of the ring by Gunner and they brawled. Van Dam hit the Five Star Frog Splash for the pinfall victory.

WINNER: ROB VAN DAM in 7:30 to win 7 BFG Points

Van Dam is now alone in second place with 35 points. RVD & Crimson were interviewed after the match. RVD said he was going to beat everyone in the whole series. Christy Hemme said that they would face each other.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 01:41 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-5-11

In-ring results: PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_51936.shtml)

1 – SHEAMUS vs. THE GREAT KHALI

To cement Sheamus’s face status, the camera showed several fans in the crowd cheering for him during his entrance. Michael Cole announced that Sheamus and Henry would square off at Summerslam. Khali came out with Jinder Mahal. Khali sent Sheamus to the mat after a lock-up in the early going. Sheamus hit the ropes, but was knocked down again, this time by a forearm. Sheamus went for the eyes of Khali and clubbed the big man in the chest with forearms as Khali was stuck between the ropes. Running knee-lift to Khali, then Sheamus went to the top. Khali just slapped him in the chest with an open right hand, sending Sheamus to ringside. Khali grabbed Sheamus and brought him back in the hard way. Khali kept up the offense and Sheamus fought out of the corner with sledgehammers. Josh Mathews relayed the background of Khali and Jinder Mahal. Brogue Kick by Sheamus, but Khali instead gave him the brain chop. That got a near-fall at 4:07. Khali locked in the Vice Grip, taking Sheamus to his knees. The fans became vocal in cheering on Sheamus, aiding him in getting to his feet. He broke free, then gave Sheamus a Brogue Kick (with Khali on one knee) for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 5:21. Good match-up to prepare Sheamus for facing another big opponent in Mark Henry. Khali took the loss, but didn’t look bad at all.

2 – AJ vs. NATALYA

No explanation for why these two are fighting after teaming up in recent weeks. They shook hands to start the match. Mathews and Cole gave out both women’s Twitter accounts before the match. They went to a stalemate in the first minute. Headlock take-over by AJ, then an arm-drag. Booker talked about “Cowboy” Scott Casey training him, just as Nattie had been training AJ. Booker was all messed up describing what organization they were in, saying “World Class” then saying it was in “WWW….” instead of “WCCW.” Cole called him out on that. Oh, and Nattie won with a Sharpshooter.

WINNER: Natalya, via submission, at 1:57. These two could have a pretty good match if they were able to go even 5:00.

After the match, Natalya attacked AJ, throwing her out of the ring and ramming her back-first into the apron. Suplex by Natalya on AJ on the outside of the ring. Natalya got a mic and said, “Beth Phoenix, I’m with you sister. The days of the cute, perky little princesses are over.”

3 – TYSON KIDD vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Kidd was already in the ring. “Ride of the Valkyries” is no more for Bryan. Some chain wrestling to start, including a bridge by each man on pin attempts. Barrett continued his verbal assault on Bryan, as if Cole doing it on a weekly basis isn’t enough. Bryan dropkicked Kidd off the apron and to the floor. Suicide dive by Bryan took out Kidd. Leg-whip by Kidd on Bryan as Bryan entered the ring. Kidd continued to work the left leg of Bryan. Kidd wrapped the leg around the ring post. He was in control as they went to break shy of 3:00 into the match.

Back at 6:12 with Kidd continuing to work the leg. Snap suplex by Bryan, but the comeback didn’t last long. Kidd ripped him up on the top rope and went for a superplex, but Bryan blocked it. Kidd was headbutted off the top rope and Bryan landed a missile dropkick. Match reset at 8:00 with both men down. Kicks to the chest by Bryan, but Kidd blocked one and got a dragon-screw leg-whip. Half-crab by Kidd, but Bryan got to the ropes at 9:01 of the match. Barrett said he sees holes in Bryan’s game that he can exploit. Springboard elbow-drop by Kidd, but Bryan got his knees up. He tried the Lebell Lock, but Kidd rolled through. The men exchanged roll-ups for near-falls. Hard kicks by Kidd, but Bryan returned the favor with one of his own to the head. Bryan grabbed a guillotine submission (which Booker called an “anaconda” choke) and got the win.

WINNER: Bryan, via submission, at 10:23. Kidd shines in the enhancement role he’s in now, but shows flashes of being something more down the line. Obviously, his size will hold him back.

4 – ZACK RYDER vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Shoulder knock-down by Jackson, who then whipped Ryder into opposite turnbuckles. Sidewalk slam for two. Ryder took Jackson down in the corner, then gave him the Broski Boot (the running boot, white-washing the opponent in the face). Neck-breaker by Ryder, but Jackson came back by countering Ryder and running over him, then clotheslining Ryder in the corner. Bodyslams by Zeke, to complete silence from the crowd. Torture Rack and Ryder gave up.

WINNER: Jackson, at 2:27. There’s something poetic about someone the fans get behind, someone who isn’t cookie-cutter and hasn’t been handed anything, losing to WWE and Vince McMahon’s image of what a Superstar should look like, despite having no other discernible talent.

5 – MARK HENRY vs. VLADIMIR KOZLOV

This will be Kozlov’s last TV appearance after being released by WWE today. Kozlov did not don the hip-hop gear he wore during his match with JTG on NXT this week. Cole suggested Henry would try to one-up Sheamus after Sheamus beat Khali earlier in the night. Kozlov went after Henry in the corner, but Henry got a boot up on a charge. Headbutts to the chest by Kozlov, but Henry just ran Vlad over. World’s Strongest Slam by Henry for the win.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:16. If this was a few years ago, this would’ve been a heck of a win. At this point, Kozlov doesn’t mean much.

6 – JTG & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. TRENT BARRETA & THE USOS

Mathews said it was “only a matter of time” before JTG teamed up with the tag champs. Not sure why he thinks that. The Usos did their Polynesian war dance during their entrance. I’m glad they’re doing that; these two needed something to set them apart from everyone else. Mathews did say, like the tag champs, JTG craves the spotlight. Wouldn’t that make it less likely that they’d team up? More spotlight to share. Anyway, both teams made quick tags early on, with David Otunga registering the first near-fall short of one minute into the match. Cole got on Booker for Tweeting that Cole is a “tool” during the show, saying the same thing happened to him on Raw with JR. Double-teaming by the tag champs in the heel corner. Barreta got to shine for the babyfaces, until JTG broke up a pin. Things broke down from there, with everyone getting involved inside and outside the ring. Barreta went to the top, but missed a moonsault on McGillicutty. The champs hit their tag finisher (back-breaker/elbowdrop combo), shades of Demolition, for the win.

WINNERS: JTG, McGillicutty and Otunga, at 3:47. Fine match to showcase the tag division, and I like utilizing lower-to-mid card guys in six-man tags like this.

7 – RANDY ORTON & JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH & CHRISTIAN

Orton got the better of Truth early on. Christian tagged in to face Morrison. Morrison took Christian down and got a quick two-count. Another take-down by Christian for two. Christian came back with a type of hot-shot, zeroing in on Morrison’s neck. Truth tagged in and dished out some more punishment. Morrison with a counter to take over. Running knee to a seated Truth for only two. Christian interfered to break up the pin, and he was chased around ringside by Orton. Christian found safety in the crowd as Orton was admonished by the referee. They went to break at 3:58.

Morrison went for a springboard kick, but Truth pushed him over the top rope and to the floor. Truth patiently waited for Morrison to recover and re-enter the ring. Once he did, Truth continued the assault. Christian tagged in and stayed on offense. Neck-breaker found the mark for a two-count. Morrison took advantage of an opportunity and both men were down at 11:00. Christian got up and knocked Orton off the apron to prevent a tag from being made. C4 by Morrison put Truth down, and this time, both men made the tags. Crowd was hot for this as Orton scoop slammed Christian. Charge in the corner, but Christian got his boots up. Dropkick missed, Orton jackknife cover for two. Killswitch countered into a back-breaker for two. Side roll-up by Orton in the corner. Spinebuster by Christian. Booker called it a sidewalk slam and Cole corrected him. Orton dodged the spear, but the RKO was avoided as well. Orton pulled Christian’s leg off the second rope and lined up for the punt. Truth came in to stop it, but Morrison took care of him. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton on Christian. RKO for the interfering Truth, so Christian took advantage of the opportunity and gave Orton the Killswitch for three.

WINNERS: Christian and Truth, at 15:07.

Christian celebrated as if he had won the title all over again, standing on the announce table and dropping to his knees on the entranceway. Orton looked on in disbelief that Christian could actually pin him as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 02:17 pm
TNA Hardcore Justice PPV Results: 8-7-11 (next three posts)

In-ring results: PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's final report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_51958.shtml)

1 -- X Division champion BRIAN KENDRICK vs. AUSTIN ARIES vs. ALEX SHELLEY -- three-way X Division Title match

Kendrick and Shelley quickly floored Aries to clear the latest "anti-X Division heel" so they could wrestle each other. Aries paced around the ring as Shelley and Kendrick worked against each other, looking to pick his spot to re-enter. The match then focused on Shelley & Kendrick trying to keep Aries out of the ring before Shelley finally tried a roll-up on Kendrick for a close two count. Meanwhile, Tenay noted "big X Division news" on Impact Wrestling this week with new talent returning/debuting. Suddenly, Aries collapsed to the mat to sell an injury, leaving Shelley and Kendrick to resume their match. Moments later, Aries came to life to surprise Kendrick, clear Shelley from the ring, and work on the champion. Aries then found himself alone in the ring when he back-dropped Kendrick awkwardly over the top rope. The faces then huddled up on the floor and Aries landed a suicide dive onto both men.

Back in the ring, no one was selling and bodies started flying as they exchanged control of the match. Shelley eventually stood tall after smashing Aries off the ring apron with a superkick, then he came off the top with a flying splash to Kendrick's knee. Shelley followed with a spinning figure-four leglock and Kendrick cried out in pain. Aries re-entered to break it up, though. The men traded control of the match again with Kendrick still selling the knee work from Shelley. At 12:00, they set up a three-way corner spot and Kendrick kind of slipped to the apron and Shelley kind of fell on Aries. Aries helped the match recover by delivering rapid-fire offense before Kendrick magically recovered and flew into the ring to break up a pin. Kendrick then delivered Sliced Bread to Aries on to Shelley. Kendrick with the pin on Shelley for the win.

WINNER: Kendrick at 13:10 to retain the X Division Title. TNA has defined down the X Division as an opening-match act with little selling and rapid-fire action, which was the case in this match. Not smooth all the way through, though. As for the individuals, Aries carried himself like a star playing the heel, Shelley wasn't given a chance to stand out much, and Kendrick continues to play a deliberately awkward figure that makes him more of a spectacle than a star. (**1/2)

2 -- Knockouts tag champions MISS TESSMACHER & TARA vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (SARITA & ROSITA) -- Knockouts Tag Title match

Hernandez and Anarquia, who will be challenging for the men's Tag Titles later in the show, were given the boot from ringside before the match started. The heel challengers acted like heels to start the match by stalling to frustrate the champs. Sarita and Rosita then took turns working over Tessmacher. Tess was finally able to make a hot tag to Tara, then the action broke down in the ring. After chaos nearly allowed the challengers to score the victory, Tara eventually scored a pin for the win to retain the titles. Tessmacher and Tara had a brief post-match celebration before they cut backstage.

WINNERS: Tess & Tara at 7:08 to retain the KO Tag Titles. Completely serviceable, long-form TV match for the Knockouts. TNA also continued to build up Tessmacher, who they're focusing on as their #2 KO face below Mickie. Also, TNA has set a good pace for the PPV early on.

3 -- "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. BROTHER DEVON -- BFG Series match

The bell sounded despite Pope still having a mic in-hand. Devon paced around the ring and Pope said he's all about the BFG Series, but he cares more about their friendship and Devon's family. Pope said he gave Devon seven points a few weeks ago and he'll do it again. Pope placed himself on the mat to let Devon pin him, but Devon said he's not taking the points that way and told Pope to get up and fight him. Pope obliged and they started a match that quickly "turned personal" when they traded slaps. Devon and Pope traded control as Morgan passionately said he's hot with Pope for not taking this seriously because he would kill to be in this Series and have a shot at the World Title.

At 6:30, Pope left the ring to chat with Devon's family, which drew Devon out of the ring to throw Pope back into the ring. Devon went to work on Pope as Morgan encouraged Devon to have a greater sense of urgency looking for points. Pope then blocked a corner attack and landed consecutive offense. Pope followed with a top-rope cross-body splash for a close two count. Devon came right back, though, with another corner attack, but Pope blocked it again. Pope wanted the DDExpress, but paused mid-charge. Devon took advantage with a spear, but Pope rolled his shoulder to avoid a three count. Morgan was exasperated by this. Suddenly, Pope rolled up Devon out of nowhere and it was good for the win.

Post-match: Pope sold being conflicted over scoring the pin, then Devon popped up to his feet and put his hands on his hips. Pope extended his hand, saying Devon wanted to wrestle him. Devon waved him off, but locked eyes with his kids before leaving the ring. Devon then ducked back into the ring to shake hands with Pope before leaving. Devon sold frustration on the way out as the announcers said Devon wants to be a good role model for his kids.

WINNER: Pope at 9:33 to score 7 points in the BFG Series. Awkward finish after a standard Pope-quality match. Devon has improved his physical conditioning drastically and could be more valuable to the roster if moved up the card. There just isn't a clear picture of the issue between Pope and Devon for the audience to invest or care. (*1/2)

4 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES vs. WINTER (w/Angelina Love) -- Knockouts Title match

Winter was the aggressor early on, looking for a quick title win, but Mickie cut her off. Winter then gained an advantage when Angelina provided a distraction. Mickie cut her off again, though, and Winter bailed to the floor to regroup. Instead of waiting for Winter to re-enter the ring, Mickie went to the floor and ended up eating the guardrail. Back in the ring, they traded believable nearfalls after Angelina interfered behind the ref's back. Angelina tried to interfere again, but Mickie cleared her from the ring. Angelina then occupied the ref again, allowing Winter to spew a substance in Mickie's face. Winter made the cover, ref Hebner didn't see anything wrong with Mickie's face covered in a foreign substance, and Winter is the new champ. Medics checked on Mickie post-match to sell the effects of the substance.

WINNER: Winter at 8:58 to capture the Knockouts Title. There was some good, well-paced action offset by the over-booking and three instances of referee incompetence in the same match. TNA wanted to give their top KO face an "out" for losing the match and title, but they didn't have to over-do it to an unintentional comedy level. (*3/4)

5 -- ROB VAN DAM (w/Jerry Lynn) vs. CRIMSON -- BFG Series match

Crimson went for early pin attempts, trying to end this quickly. The action then moved to the ring apron, which give Direct Auto Insurance some camera-time as RVD delivered a trademark thrust kick to the floor. Crimson quickly cut off RVD on the floor, then rolled him back into the ring to deliver more punishment. They cut to a shot of Lynn trying to sell concern as Crimson continued to wear down RVD with his trademark cravate hold. A few minutes later, RVD came back with the Five-star Frogsplash, but took a while to make the cover, which allowed Crimson to kick out. They cut to a shot of Lynn just kind of looking around like he was lost in the mall. Taz quipped he's doing a great job having RVD's back.

Crimson came back with a spear for a two count. Crimson followed with a sky-high bomb and had the pin, but Lynn ran into the ring and broke up the pin. Ref Jackson James shouted at Lynn, then DQ'ed RVD, giving Crimson the win. Plus, RVD loses ten points for a DQ loss. Apparently Lynn didn't get the memo on how this works. The crowd was silent for this, as the finish didn't come off great and they didn't understand why Lynn was there. Post-match: Lynn, in his over-sized Impact Wrestling t-shirt, told RVD he was just trying to have his back. Crimson and RVD then knuckled up to say it's all good between them, then RVD cut a promo on Lynn, who pleaded with RVD that he messed up. RVD left, then Lynn tried to follow him to explain himself.

WINNER: Crimson via DQ at 8:40 to earn 3 BFG Series points. Crimson has upside, but TNA continues to expose his limitations and really hasn't captured why the audience should invest in him. Meanwhile, RVD returned to TNA form just having a basic RVD match. The finish falling completely flat didn't help matters. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 02:18 pm
6 -- FORTUNE (A.J. STYLES & DANIELS & KAZARIAN) vs. IMMORTAL (SCOTT STEINER & GUNNER & ABYSS) -- six-man tag match

The two sides spent a lot of time trash-talking before the match, then the bell sounded to begin the contest. Steiner informed Kazarian he has the largest arms in the world, then turned his back on Kaz to flex. Next in were Daniels and Abyss, who had an awkward exchange highlighted by Daniels slipping on the top rope attempting a springboard and kind of brushing Abyss with a spin kick that put Abyss on his back. Fortune then cleaned house to try to fire up the crowd to cover for the awkward spot. The referee lost control of the match moments later and Immortal took advantage by isolating Daniels on the floor before throwing him back into the ring. Taz said ref Brian Hebner needs eyes in the back of his head for this one. Lynn is probably still available.

The action eventually broke down on the floor with men pairing off against each other. Steiner easily whipped Daniels into the guardrail, then started walking up the ramp away from the ring. He returned to ringside to drop Kaz face-first across the Direct Auto ring apron. Meanwhile, Gunner pulled out a table and positioned it ringside. Hebner had completely lost control at this point. Some men eventually found their way back into the ring as the crowd engaged in a slow-clap. This was followed by a loud man doing a solo chant. Then, another slow-clap. Moments later, another slow-clap as Kaz teased a hot tag to Styles.

Styles entered, flew off Abyss's back, and forearm-smashed Immortal on the ring apron. Styles continued to blast the trio of heels with offense before executing a springboard cross-body on Abyss. The action broke down again, then Styles scored a close fall on Abyss. Styles followed with a Pele kick for a two count, but Gunner broke it up. And, the action broke down again. A parade of big moves ensued, then the action broke down again. Meanwhile, Gunner set up a table spot on Styles, but Daniels saved him. Daniels and Gunner then fell through the table off the apron, taking them out of the equation. Back in the ring, Styles executed an innovative springboard Pele kick on Abyss. It was good for the win as Kaz held off Steiner.

Post-match: Styles checked on Daniels, who the announcers said "took a bullet" for Styles. Kaz joined the victory celebration as Daniels sold the effects of the table spot. Back in the ring, Steiner and Gunner questioned Abyss, who took the loss. Abyss lightly pushed them away like a small child trying to wave off his parents yelling at him. Visible in the background, ref Hebner pounded the mat, which was a signal to get out of the ring. Steiner and Gunner then walked out of the ring, leaving Abyss to question himself alone.

WINNERS: Fortune at 14:42. The match felt like it would be the type of match that doesn't solve anything and they'll be back to feuding on TV like this match never happened, but the outcome and post-match gave the match a purpose with Abyss possibly being booted from Immortal and Styles owing Daniels a favor. The action was hit-or-miss with so many different types of wrestlers that it created an odd mixture. (**1/4)

7 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. BULLY RAY
 
Anderson eventually got Ray into the ring and the match officially started. Ray begged off in the corner, but Anderson continued the onslaught. Ray then avoided a corner attack and decked Anderson before doing the old Stan Hansen growl and hand signal. Ray started trash-talking Anderson, telling him to fight him. Anderson didn't respond, so Ray slapped him across the chest and delivered a sidewalk slam for a two count. Ray kept talking trash like Kevin Steen with a running commentary. Anderson finally fought back with multiple right hands before Ray decked him with an elbow smash. "You gonna fight me or what?" Ray shouted down at Anderson.
 
They started trading bombs from their knees and Ray walloped Anderson to knock him onto his back. Ray tried a Bubba Bomb, but Anderson dropped him mid-ring and both men sold on the mat. They returned to their knees and traded bombs again. Ray kept taunting Anderson, who couldn't do anything with Ray before finally landing a knock-down clothesline. Taz said this is just a physical brawl. Anderson then teased the Mic Check, but Ray blocked and Anderson suddenly executed an enziguiri for a two count. Ray then came back with a uranage for a two count. Cue up the slow clap.
 
Ray charged Anderson in the corner with a big splash, but then missed with a flying splash from the second rope. Anderson tried his own corner attack and scored with a flying splash. They traded close nearfalls, then Ray countered another top-rope attack with a mid-air cutter. Taz said it's over, but Anderson kicked out in time. Ray, desperate, grabbed his chain and wrapped it around his fist. Jackson pleaded with Ray, then Anderson suddenly scooped up Ray and they collapsed into the ropes with Ray's weight bringing them crashing down. Anderson then wanted another top-rope move, but Ray rolled out of the ring, said, "Screw you," and fell down on the entrance ramp. Anderson retrieved Ray and threw him back into the ring, though.
 
Back in the ring, Anderson picked up Ray's chain and twirled it around. Ray covered his head, then Jackson yanked the chain away from Anderson, which allowed Ray to low-blow Anderson from behind. Ray then rolled up Anderson from behind and scored a quick three count. Ray asked for his chain and left while Anderson sold in the ring. They quickly cut backstage.
 
WINNER: Ray at 10:04. Credit Ray. He knows his character, doesn't try to "get over as a cool heel," and tried to draw something out of Anderson to elevate Anderson's stale, undefined character. Well-done match until another screwy finish on this show. (**3/4)
 
8 -- TNA tag champions BEER MONEY (JAMES STORM & ROBERT ROODE) vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/Sarita and Rosita) -- TNA Tag Title match
 
The bell sounded and the crowd went silent, which caused some of the in-ring chatter to be audible on the PPV broadcast. Beer Money then involved the crowd with successive offense on Hernandez to get some early shine. The action moved to the floor and Beer Money blasted Anarquia before ramming him head-first into an American flag draped over the guardrail. Back in the ring, Beer Money went back to work on Anarquia, who then stumbled into Hebner, allowing Hernandez to deck Roode from the ring apron. The challengers worked over Roode for a few minutes before Storm hot-tagged and the action broke down.
 
The champs eventually took control, then decided to do their Beer...Money pose right in the middle of an opportunity to score a pinfall to win the match. Storm then scored a close fall on Anarquia with a top-rope splash. Anarquia was fresh moments later and climbed to the top turnbuckle to splash Storm, but Roode shoved Anarquia right into a superkick from Storm. This cover was good for the win to retain the Tag Titles. Afterward, Storm grabbed a U.S. flag to celebrate in the ring.
 
WINNERS: Beer Money at 10:41. Extended-length TV-quality match. They didn't try to "steal the show" and set the bar too high for Angle vs. Sting, not that this was the match-up to "steal the show." Just an efficient match for Beer Money, who seem to be stuck at the same level without quality opponents to work with and not directly involved in the Immortal vs. Fortune feud receiving the most TV time and attention. Roode and/or Storm should be headlining PPVs right now. (*3/4)
 
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 02:18 pm
9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion STING vs. KURT ANGLE -- TNA World Title match
 
Early feeling-out process as the lightly-invested Impact Zone crowd attempted a dueling chant. This was followed by yet another slow-clap only 2:10 into the match. The match moved to the floor at 4:25 with Sting in control of the action. They did not brawl into the crowd, but returned to the ring. Meanwhile, the announcers continued to stress the idea of Sting needing the TNA Title to keep control of the company and return he company to Dixie, but TNA has never established the value of the title and why holding the title equals control of the company. There's a reason out there, but TNA has never taken that extra step explaining it. As a result, it comes across like an artificial reason to incorporate the ongoing "power struggle" storyline into the TNA Title picture.
 
In the ring, Sting continued to be in control to allow Angle to work from underneath to build toward his comeback. Angle missed with a top-rope moonsault, though, and Sting slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. Angle sold he was in jeopardy, but it was too early in the drama to get the crowd to buy the false finish. Angle reached the bottom rope for a break, then Sting nailed a Scorpion Splash. Angle avoided the second one, though, and hit the Angle Slam for a two count. Angle missed with a corner attack, then Sting applied Angle's anklelock finisher. The crowd did a slow-clap, then Angle escaped and slapped on Sting's Scorpion Deathlock. Angle couldn't maintain the hold and Sting reached the bottom rope for a break.
 
At 12:30, Angle stalked Sting and went for multiple German Suplexes, but Sting elbowed out. Sting tried a powerslam, but Angle countered with an anklelock. The crowd bought this one a little more than the previous false finish, then Sting suddenly rolled up Angle for a two count. You could see the ref bump coming and it came moments later. Angle and Sting then had a double knockdown and everyone was KO'ed to the mat.
 
After a pause, Hulk Hogan gingerly made his way to the ring with chair in-hand. The crowd chanted Hogan's name, happy to see a brand-name star. Hogan approached Sting for a chair shot, but Angle snuck up behind Hogan and yanked the chair away. Angle then turned around and cracked the chair over Sting's back. Sting no-sold and stumbled across the ring as Angle revived the referee. Angle then dropped Sting with the Angle Slam. It was good for a Slow Hebner Three Count to give Angle the win and the TNA Title.
 
WINNER: Angle at 15:22 to capture the TNA World Title. Okay, not particularly memorable PPV main event. There was just something about brand-name stars like Sting, Angle, and Hogan involved in this angle in front of 900 people at a soundstage that made it all seem inconsequential. Hogan walking to the ring with a chair was supposed to be this big, dramatic moment, but the shot of the audience facing the hard camera pulling out their cameras to take a picture of a big star in their midst sent a message that this doesn't count. Angle's title victory was expected, but now they another "shades of gray" champion potentially being wooed by Immortal on the next set of TV episodes, which will only lead to more ambivalence. (**1/4)
 
Post-match: Hogan just glared into the ring as Angle stood tall with the TNA Title belt over his shoulder. Angle smacked the belt, suggesting Hogan come get it. After some back-and-forth camera shots between Angle and Hogan, the show ended without a clean sign-off.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 09 2011, 02:19 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_51980.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title match

The announcers created a sense of urgency to this match early on, ignoring the social media b.s. that typically highlights the opening match (and most of the matches) on Raw. Cena grabbed a headlock early on and tried to wear down Swagger before running him over with a shoulder tackle. Cena followed with a big corner splash, then a dropkick for a one count. Cena followed right up with an armbar, showing aggression not typical for his matches. Cole, meanwhile, questioned Hunter inserting himself into the referee spot when he has little experience and it's "one of the biggest matches in WWE history." Ross said Hunter's the COO and he can't let anything go wrong and he trusts himself only. Cole then threw a question to Ross for "historical perspective" on whether there's ever been a bigger match in WWE history.

Meanwhile, Swagger was in control trying to wear down Cena. Cena then suplexed Swagger to escape a hold. Swagger came back with a running shoulder block, though, and scored a two count. Ross noted Swagger hasn't targeted the ankle for the anklelock as Swagger went to a hammerlock. Swagger followed with a spear to the knee/ankle region, then both men countered submission attempts. Cena built momentum with his trademark comeback offense, then smiled as he set up and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena followed with an Attitude Adjustment after smiling to the hard camera and it was good for the win. Cole noted Cena is building momentum for Summerslam.

WINNER: Cena at 5:23. Basic pre-PPV work trying to give Cena an "impressive victory" over a halfway credible opponent, allow the announcers to talk about the PPV, and give pro-Cena TV viewers their weekly dose of Cena physicality. It was refreshing to hear Ross in a more meaningful announcing role and a reduction of Heel Cole's presence taking over the show. (*1/4)

2 -- THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Lawler and Ross said Miz is attention-starved and he can get the right attention with a win over an impressive Kingston. Cole plugged Miz at the Teen Choice Awards last night rubbing elbows with big-name stars. He plugged all of Miz's other appearances as Miz worked on Kingston and got over his aggression. Kingston then clotheslined Miz to the floor before flying over the top rope with a dive. Kingston jumped back into the ring to celebrate before they cut to break.

Back live, Miz was in control of the action working a headlock on the mat. They cut to a clip of what happened during the commercial break when Miz aggressively clotheslined Kingston on the floor. Ross covered some bases on Rey Mysterio: WWE Title re-match is official for next week's Raw from San Diego and Mysterio may or may not be physically ready for Summerslam if he's called upon for action. In the ring, Miz scored a close nearfall on Kingston before Cole plugged Twitter and other social media items.

Miz continued to wear down Kingston as Cole talked more about Miz being in-demand. Kingston and Miz then countered each other before Kingston executed a sick springboard turnaround high cross-body from the top rope that scored a close two count. Miz came back with a spike DDT from his knees for a two count. The battle moved up top, where Miz set up for a superplex, but Kingston countered with a sunset flip powerbomb for a nearfall.

Kingston was up first and started to warm up for Trouble in Paradise, but Miz ducked. Miz then slingshot Kofi across the top rope before hitting the Skullcrushing Finale for the pin and the win. Post-match: Miz continued to sell intensity as Cole said Miz should be a part of Summerslam in some form or fashion. They went to a replay of Kofi's high cross-body splash before showing Miz picking up the win. Back live, Miz celebrated on the stage as Kofi recovered in the ring.

WINNER: Miz at 10:43. It's like a switch flipped for Miz, whose intensity was excellent in the pre-match, in-ring, and post-match. The match itself was a bit slow at times before a strong conclusion. Miz was enhanced, Kofi remained at the same level despite taking a loss, and they set the stage for Miz to be involved at Summerslam in some form. (**)

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

Brief "C-M-Punk" chant as Cole asked Lawler if he's surprised by the chants. Lawler said he thinks anyone would be favored by the fans against Del Rio. A more sustained Punk chant came up from the vocal males as Punk traded offense with Del Rio. Del Rio then yanked Punk shoulder-first into the ringpost before targeting the shoulder in anticipation of the cross arm-breaker. The vocal males tried another Punk chant that didn't build much steam. Del Rio suddenly missed with a flying splash and flew clear through the ropes to the floor.

Punk recovered in the ring, then Del Rio re-entered and took a swinging neckbreaker from Punk. Punk followed with a knee smash and flying bulldog. He then went to the apron for a springboard clothesline and called for the G2S. Punk measured Del Rio for the G2S, but Del Rio slipped out and rammed Punk shoulder-first into the ringpost. Del Rio followed with a backstabber for a two count. He then tried the cross arm-breaker, but Punk kicked Del Rio in the head and hoisted him up for the G2S. Punk connected on a wobbly Del Rio and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Punk at 4:40. Fine for the basic build-up similar to Cena's match. Punk feels like just another wrestler on the roster, though, and WWE can't re-capture that same buzz with Punk appearing to be an outlaw. Now it's a matter of solidifying Punk as a main event-level star and doing what they can with that. Punk had to win this match clean, so it's interesting they booked Del Rio as his opponent when it seemed like they were re-building Del Rio. (*1/2)

4 -- BETH PHOENIX vs. EVE

Back from break, Phoenix came to the ring for a Divas match as the announcers hyped the title match at Summerslam. Eve was out as her opponent. The match followed the basic three-minute Divas TV match formula of Phoenix on offense, Eve with a teased comeback, and Phoenix with her Glam Slam finisher for the win.

Post-match: Phoenix took the mic and talked trash at Eve directed toward Kelly. On the outside, Phoenix wrapped up her promo, but turned her back to the entrance ramp. That allowed Kelly to smash her from behind out of nowhere. Kelly then stood tall in the ring and held up the Divas Title for Phoenix to get a look at.

WINNER: Phoenix at 2:58. Fine, basic PPV build-up for WWE's purposes showing Kelly is a fighting champion and isn't afraid to "stand up to bullies."

5 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ALEX RILEY -- non-title match

Ziggler got in trouble early on, so Vickie tried to nip at Riley's heels from the outside. Ziggler found himself in more trouble, so Vickie walked right into the ring and faced off with Riley, who just smirked at her. Vickie then slapped Riley across the face, causing a DQ. Ziggler was upset with Vickie and screamed at her. Ziggler then pushed Riley, who shoved Ziggler, who bumped into Vickie. Riley left the ring as the DQ winner, then Vickie and Ziggler resumed their argument in the ring. Vickie was going nuts screaming. Vickie then waved him good-bye and left the ring. They continued the argument on the outside.

WINNER: Riley via DQ at 1:25. They seemed to be saving the real match for Summerslam, which they should be, and anything that gets them closer to splitting off Ziggler and Vickie is a thumbs up. Ziggler is coming across like a chump right now, though.

6 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH

They started with a brawling-style match, which Ross noted. Morrison executed a flip-over move of sorts that caused Morrison to land awkwardly on Truth. Truth then rolled to the floor for a breather before Morrison came flying over the top rope with a corkscrew plancha. Morrison rolled Truth back into the ring, but Truth rolled out again. Morrison then threw Truth into the guardrail and talked trash to Truth for trying to end his career. The brawl continued ringside as the referee could be heard applying a ten count. Truth then dropped Morrison by the back of his neck across the guardrail. They cut to a replay as Truth rolled back into the ring. Morrison sold a re-injury to his neck as he rolled back into the ring at nine.

Truth went to work on Morrison's neck in the ring. Ross suggested the referee needed to show some discretion about Morrison's neck condition. The two wrestlers traded control before Truth scored with Paydirt for the pin and the win. The crowd sort of mumbled at the decision. No music for Truth, so the near-silence could be heard as WWE replayed high points from the match. The announcers tried to cover for Morrison taking the loss by saying it was a gutsy performance with the neck situation.

WINNER: Truth at 4:04. Is this Melina Punishment? Perhaps the best explanation for Morrison taking a clean loss - despite the attempt at a neck injury "out" - and WWE wiping out any of his comeback momentum after returning from injury. Or, they just don't see value in Morrison right now.

The show ended with the official Cena/Punk contract signing which took up the final 21 minutes of the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:14 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_52007.shtml) Condensed in-ring results posted below.

1 -- JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. TYSON KIDD

Regal relayed a note from a friend that Dynamite Kid is a huge fan of Kidd and Dynamite thinks Kidd is the next installment of him. Strong back-and-forth action early on as Kidd showed his trademark aggression. Grisham noted tonight's show is like a Hallmark movie (as opposed to a Lifetime movie last week) with Regal sharing various career reflections and memories. Gabriel then slipped Kidd to the floor and went for a springboard move, but Kidd cut the legs out from under him and knocked him to the floor. They cut to break with both men selling on the floor.

Back from break, Kidd was in control of the action working a reverse chinlock center-ring. Lots of screaming here from Kidd. Gabriel broke free, but Kidd resumed his attack. Gabriel then flipped over Kidd and landed a discus forearm for a nearfall. He followed with an enziguiri that put Kidd flat on his back. Gabriel then teased the 450 splash, but Kidd wisely rolled out of the ring. Gabriel re-adjusted and executed a baseball slide kick through the ropes followed by a corkscrew plancha.

Back in the ring, Gabriel went for a springboard splash, but Kidd rolled through into a close nearfall. The crowd oohed the nearfall. Kidd then found himself trapped in a neck and leg vice submission before reaching the ropes for a break. Gabriel tried to follow up with the 450 splash again, but Kidd crotched him. Kidd then executed a top-rope springboard huracanrana, but it was only good for a two count. Regal said he believes Kidd has been the star of NXT throughout the season because of his offensive displays.

The action reset at 13:00 with Gabriel countering a whip into the ropes into a sit-out slam for a two count. Gabriel tried to follow up, but Kidd slipped on a single-leg Boston Crab. Regal referenced Lance Storm as Gabriel suddenly countered the hold into a quick roll-up for a two count. Gabriel followed with a modified STO, then climbed up top for a third time. Gabriel took his time setting up for the 450 splash and he connected to a big reaction. (Kidd had to assist in positioning himself a bit.) Gabriel with the pin for the win as the kids roared for Gabriel.

WINNER: Gabriel at 14:43. Nice match. Good athleticism and a nice back-and-forth pace setting up a strong final five minutes. Probably one of the best matches on NXT this season. (**1/2)

2 -- MATT STRIKER vs. DARREN YOUNG

Young was out first, then Striker - complete with standard trunks this week - charged the ring and wanted a piece of Young, but the ref held him back so they could officially start the match. Once the bell sounded, Striker charged at Young, who absorbed an early flurry of punches before taking control of the action with a neckbreaker on the ring apron. Young continued to wear down Striker after executing an overhead belly-to-belly suplex that dropped Striker on the front of his face. Striker came up bleeding from the nose, but came back with a Gory bomb special. Striker was bleeding heavily from the nose, but the match wasn't stopped by a ringside medic. Has the blood rule been done away with in WWE?

Striker executed MVP's playmaker, but Young kicked out twice. Striker wiped the blood off his nose as the referee, now wearing gloves, checked on him. Striker followed with a flying boot, but Young kicked out. Young then came back with a gutbuster across his knees after throwing Striker out of the fireman's carry position. It was good for the pin to give Young a win over the bloody Striker.

WINNER: Young at 4:46. Fine enhancement for Young's heel character.

3 -- DERRICK BATEMAN vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Hornswoggle and A.J.)

Regal said Bateman is a bit nervous tonight because he was eliminated from Season 4 in this same building. Bateman was the aggressor early on and repeatedly yelled into the crowd after successful offense. Meanwhile, Regal critiqued Bateman on his application of a reverse chinlock, which foreshadowed Titus easily escaping and mounting a comeback. Bateman chopblocked him, though, and went for a sunset flip, but Titus sat down on his shoulders and scored a three count. It was quite anticlimactic and came out of nowhere, exemplified by A.J. looking caught off guard and forgeting to celebrate when the camera focused on her.

Post-match: Bateman attacked Titus from behind, then turned his attention to Hornswoggle, but Titus smashed him from behind. Titus then delivered an emphatic sky-high bomb. Titus wasn't done, as he set up Hornswoggle to deliver the Tadpole Splash for an exclamation point on the proceedings. A.J. applauded this time and the trio celebrated just like last week to close another episode of the never-ending NXT. Titus hoisted Hornswoggle on his shoulders, just like I saw live Week 1 earlier this year, and that ended the show.

WINNER: Titus at 3:29. More of the John Morrison treatment for Bateman, who has regressed from Season 4. Either it's setting up Bateman's character to snap and "flip the switch" to go the other way or WWE has lost complete confidence in him. Meanwhile, Titus is right where he's always been.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:15 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-11-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_52054.shtml) Condensed in-ring results posted below.

1 -- TED DIBIASE vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta went for an early high-flying move, but DiBiase cut him off with a mid-air dropkick. They cut backstage to show Cody Rhodes watching the action on a monitor, closely inspecting DiBiase. Korpela noted DiBiase has fallen short of his career goals, as he believes he should have been World champion by now. DiBiase showcased his skills with a delayed vertical suplex for a two count, then smashed Barreta with a hard lariat for another nearfall. Barreta suddenly came back with a knee smash, then DiBiase rolled to the floor. Barreta followed with a leaping dive onto DiBiase that wiped out both men on the floor.

Back in the ring, Barreta tried a cover, but DiBiase kicked out. Barreta then scored with a corner smash, but slipped off the top rope when he tried a springboard move. DiBiase quickly capitalized, but Barreta smashed him in the corner again. Barreta tried another high-flying attack, but DiBiase crotched him, then dropped Trent with Dream Street. DiBiase with the pin for the win. Backstage, Rhodes was shown looking on, selling no emotion as DiBiase celebrated.

WINNER: DiBiase at 6:03. Too much offense for Barreta if the goal was to elevate DiBiase (if that's possible on Superstars). Instead, it was a 60/40 type match with DiBiase doing a lot of selling for Barreta, who hasn't won a TV match in months.

2 -- ALICIA FOX vs. TAMINA

Fox, a heel, was out first, followed by Tamina, who was also playing a heel. This match-up didn't make sense, so Korpela filled in the blanks that both Divas have been on a roll and they want to get in line for a Divas Title shot. Tamina quickly took control to establish herself as the dominating heel with Fox playing the babyface working from underneath. Korpela tried to congratulate Striker on his valiant effort Tuesday on NXT, but Striker cut him off to note the match in the ring. "I can't breathe," Fox declared as the crowd sat silently while Tamina worked her over. Fox made a comeback at 3:15, fought off Tamina, and nailed the axe kick for the win. Korpela said Fox has named it Watch Yo Face.

WINNER: Fox at 3:54. Not much for the crowd to invest in with two heels battling. Tamina needs to align with Phoenix and Natalya to form a strong trio of heel Divas.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. AARON JAMES

Clay pummeled A.J. early on as Scott Stanford noted "Aaron James" finished third on the recent season of Tough Enough. Josh Mathews checked Stanford on his cliché use as Clay continued to destroy A.J. Clay with a running powerslam for the pin, but he opted to keep the action going. Clay was more satisfied with a giant shoulder block for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:46. Total squash. Fine reintroduction to create some footage to put in a highlight video WWE can run when he actually "re-returns" on one of the main brands.

4 -- WWE tag champions MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. SANTINO & EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

Mike and David's new theme music is somewhat catchy. The biggest improvement was dropping the over-done Nexus gear that made them look like walking WWE Shop advertisements. (Is Nexus officially done now?) Santino was in the ring for the first two minutes before tagging out to Bourne, who worked over Otunga. The heels then took over and worked on Bourne, who sold a knee injury. They cut to break with Bourne isolated in the heel corner.

Back from break, Santino was being worked over by the heels now. The tag champs displayed a series of combination moves using the ropes to build momentum. The announcers noted the new duo of Santino and Bourne was having a tough time against the more seasoned tag champs. Santino eventually found an opening, then did the classic comedy bit reaching for a tag to the heel corner because he was so dizzy before turning around to take a clothesline. Bourne finally took a hot tag at 10:00 and cleaned house with a variety of strikes. The action broke down after a pin attempt, then Bourne splashed both heels on the floor.

Back in the ring, Bourne scored with a knee strike before Santino tagged in with the Cobra sock puppet. Santino struck Otunga, but turned around to take a neckbreaker from McGillicutty, who scored the pin for the win. Post-match: Mike got some shine, looking like Larry the Axe Hennig with the beard. They went to a replay of the finish before the tag champs were shown celebrating out of the ring. In the ring, Bourne tried to console Santino, who continues his quest to find the right tag combination to beat the tag champs.

WINNERS: McGillicutty & Otunga at 11:43. Serviceable tag match focusing on the tag champs as a well-oiled tag team. Bourne didn't get much time to shine, so he was unfortunately lost in the shuffle here. Meanwhile, Santino is running out of partners to find the right combination.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:15 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_52083.shtml) Condensed in-ring results posted below.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. SHEAMUS

Cole sided with Christian and said he should’ve sued WWE. Sheamus had the early advantage until Christian low-bridged him out of the ring. Baseball slide missed, but Sheamus was rammed shoulder-first into the ring post. Back in the ring, Sheamus missed a charge and again went shoulder-first into the post. Back-breaker by Sheamus and both men were down as if they’d wrestled ten minutes already. It was only 2:40 into the match. The announcers finally got around to talking about Sheamus’s PPV match. Powerslam by Sheamus for two. Christian went back on offense and went to the top rope. He missed a cross-body and Sheamus brought the forearms across the chest of the World Champion. Knee-lift by Sheamus, and then he went to the top. Diving shoulder tackle, followed by a set-up for the Brogue Kick. Christian rolled out of the ring to avoid it and grabbed the World Title from ringside. He wanted to leave, but Sheamus shoved him into the barricade (and it looked to be a rather gentle shove). Back in the ring, he went for the Irish Cross. Christian dropped out the back and to the apron, then worked Sheamus’s neck over the top rope. He took his belt and walked to the back for a count-out.

WINNER: Sheamus, via count-out, at 5:56. Really the only result they could’ve had here (unless Mark Henry interfered for a DQ) with both men competing in high-profile matches at Summerslam on Sunday.

2 – NATALYA & BETH PHOENIX vs. AJ & KAITLYN

AJ and Kaitlyn were already in the ring. Cole said Nattie and Beth want to be known as “D.O.D: Divas of Doom.” No other explanation for Beth’s appearance on Smackdown. Kaitlyn went for a rear waist-lock, but Nattie laughed it off and slammed her. Tag to Beth, and a nice, unique double-team back suplex for two. Kaitlyn dodged corner charge by Beth, then tagged AJ. Dropkick on Beth, but a roll-up was countered and Beth picked her up for the Glam Slam.

WINNERS: Phoenix and Natalya, at 1:15. Interesting tandem here, but I’m not sure how they pull of a Divas tag team, especially with two from different brands. I’m guessing they’ll run through the division like Kharma was supposed to.

3 – SIN CARA vs. TYSON KIDD

The announcers talked about Cara putting on more muscle. You could tell it wasn’t the original Sin Cara based on body type and the fact that Rod Zapata was not refereeing his match. Cara took Kidd out of the ring and hit a springboard body-press. He tried to get back into the ring but Kidd kicked him in the ribs and sent him back to the floor. Arm-drag by Cara back in the ring. Springboard headbutt, then a headscissors take-over. Springboard clothesline for two. Diving body attack in the corner. Cara set Kidd on the top rope, but Kidd headbutted him down. Booker talked about the new moves Cara has added to his repertoire since being injured. Samoan drop-like move by Cara, then a springboard moonsault off the second rope for three.

WINNER: Cara, at 2:56. Wondering if this will be a permanent substitution for the man under the mask. I personally think it’s too soon to give up on Mistico, but I don’t run a multi-million dollar company.

4 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DANIEL BRYAN

As usual, Ricardo Rodriguez introduced ADR. Del Rio and Bryan were both wearing white tights and white kneepads. It was quite confusing. Del Rio with a back suplex for two. Cole made fun of Bryan for Tweeting his breakfast earlier in the week. Bryan flipped off the top rope and hit a clothesline for a one-count. Kicks to the chest by Bryan. Del Rio tried the cross arm-breaker, but Bryan wasn’t having it. Bryan back-dropped Del Rio to ringside, then landed his suicide dive. Bryan grabbed at his shoulder as he lay on the mat. Back in the ring, Bryan came off the top and missed a missile dropkick. Del Rio locked in the cross arm-breaker for the tapout win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 3:30. I should think that the two MITB winners should be a little more evenly matched than for one to win in less than four minutes.

5 – CODY RHODES vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Ted DiBiase and the baggers accompanied Rhodes to the ring. Booker complained about Jackson smiling on his way to the ring, saying he wasn’t taking this seriously enough. Rhodes tried to stay away from Jackson, but Zeke was just overpowering him. Rhodes went to ringside :50 in, and WWE went to break.

Back at 3:53 of the match. Rhodes was working over Jackson with stomps. Rhodes got a near-fall, then worked the arm. Jackson broke free by backing Rhodes into the corner. Zeke went for a punch by Rhodes got his boot up and Jackson punched it. Jackson then shrugged Rhodes off on a bulldog attempt, with Cody getting nice elevation. Good series of moves there. Bodyslam time! He went for the Torture Rack, but Rhodes got the rope and DiBiase provided a distraction. After Cody headbutted Jackson with his mask, Ted tried to get involved again, to no avail. Springboard kick by Rhodes, then Cross Rhodes for three.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 7:35. Surprised this match didn’t make Summerslam, especially if they were planning on a title change.

6 – MARK HENRY vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis facially resembles Matt Morgan. Henry easily broke a rear waist-lock and took Curtis over. He then knocked Curtis down and slapped him. Henry put his head down and Curtis kicked him. Chops from Curtis, but again he ran into the brick wall that is Mark Henry. World’s Strongest Slam for three.

WINNER: Henry, at :58. Has there ever been a worse introduction for a hyped wrestler, combining the awful vignettes and Curtis’s squash debut?

Henry went to do more damage to Curtis, but Sheamus ran out to make the save. The two didn’t touch, but Sheamus grabbed a mic as Henry sauntered off. He said Henry always talks about how tough he is, but Henry always runs away when Sheamus comes out. He called Henry “Shamu” and himself the great white. Sheamus wanted to do things right now. Henry walked back to the ring…took Curtis out of the ring and gave him the World’s Strongest Slam at ringside. “That’s gonna be you!” he shouted at Sheamus.

7 – RANDY ORTON vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Khali overpowered Orton, then gave him an overhand chop. Stomps in the corner by Khali. Mahal choked Orton behind the ref’s back. Orton was sent into the stairs at ringside by his opposition. Khali lined up for the Khali chop at 2:12, and it connected. Orton, however, kicked out. Khali grabbed a nerve hold but Orton fought out. Dropkick sent Khali into the ropes, where his arms got tangled. Orton kicked at Khali, then punched Mahal, who had got up on the apron. DDT by Orton, but the RKO was countered with the Vice Grip. Orton fought out of the corner and RKO’d Khali.

WINNER: Orton, at 4:32.

As Orton celebrated, Christian walked out to his music. He said at Summerslam, it’s going to change everything. He said he can’t wait for their No Holds Barred match, because anything goes and he has the best thing going. He told Orton he’d see him on Sunday. Not sure what that was about, but I guess that’s the point. The show faded out with Christian holding his title and jawing with Orton from a distance.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:29 pm
WWE SummerSlam PPV Results: 8-14-11 (Next two posts)

Results courtesy of Caldwell's real-time report via PWTorch.com (direct link) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_52111.shtml).

1 -- THE MIZ & R-TRUTH & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO & JOHN MORRISON & KOFI KINGSTON -- six-man tag match

The dreaded Cole/Lawler/Booker three-headed announcing trio was horrendous to start this match, which seemed like a house show main event with wrestlers getting in signature spots early on without a sense of this match meaning anything. "Back to the action!" Booker declared at 2:30 with Truth and Morrison in the middle of a headlock. Awful. Booker then randomly focused on Miz's ring jacket ten minutes after Miz's ring entrance. Del Rio, who was popular with the live crowd in Los Angeles, broke up a pin attempt by Kingston on Miz, then the action broke down. The heels eventually isolated Kofi and worked him over for a few minutes as the announcers discussed why George Lopez's show was canceled.

Mysterio eventually hot-tagged in at 8:30 and delivered signature offense on Truth. Booker suddenly interjected a Soul Train reference out of nowhere. Rey set up a double 619 on Truth and Miz, but Del Rio grabbed his foot from the outside. This set up a series of high-flying moves with the faces clearing the heels on the floor. Rey then splashed R-Truth in the ring for the pin and the win. For the first time in nine minutes, Cole got serious and said Rey proved he's ready for the #1 contender match on Raw tomorrow night.

WINNERS: Team Rey at 9:35. This is going to be a long night having to listen to Cole, Lawler, and Booker. Just awful. The match itself was inconsequential until they got around to focusing on Rey ahead of his title match tomorrow night. (**)

2 -- MARK HENRY vs. SHEAMUS
 
Cole spent a good minute trying to present an illogical argument that Henry is not a bully due to picking on people his size. Booker eventually got around to noting Henry injured wrestlers after winning matches and picked on a production worker. Cole said, okay, maybe he is a bully. Henry dominated early on as Sheamus sold on the mat. Sheamus eventually knocked Henry off his feet with a big Polish Hammer blow to the chest. Sheamus followed with big overhand blows to the chest before they collided mid-ring and both fell to the mat. Sheamus was the first one up and made his way to the top rope for a leaping shoulder tackle, which resulted in a two count.
 
Sheamus did a classic babyface spot telegraphing his finishing move and Henry avoided the Brogue Kick. Moments later, Sheamus reset and Brogue Kick'ed Henry to the floor. The match moved to the floor and Henry absolutely smashed Sheamus through the gimmicked ringside barricade. Some plants on the front rows over-reacted. It looked like Joey Ryan, Scorpio Sky, and some other local SoCal independent wrestlers. Henry returned to the ring as the plants tried to encourage Sheamus to crawl back into the ring, but Sheamus was counted out, giving Henry the win.
 
WINNER: Henry via count-out at 9:24. The right finish to keep this going with Sheamus still on the chase, but not losing too much with a count-out loss, while keeping Henry strong. (**)

3 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Natalya) -- Divas Title match
 
The match quickly moved to the floor, with Kelly landed a flying splash to give Beth something to think about in the size-advantage heel vs. underdog babyface match-up. Back in the ring, Beth took control of the match. She tried to force a submission with a standing shoulder breaker-like maneuver, but Kelly wouldn't quit. For the finish, Beth went for the Glam Slam, but Kelly rolled through into a quick pin for the win. Kelly and Eve quickly bailed from the ring to celebrated as Beth huffed and puffed with Natalya.
 
WINNER: Kelly at 6:32 to retain the Divas Title.

4 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. WADE BARRETT
 
The match started with the announcers discussing Bryan's vegan lifestyle. Cole heeled on him, saying he believes Bryan should eat a meal once in a while. Bryan stretched Barrett with a variety of holds early on as Cole confused Bryan and Barrett several times. Barrett eventually took control countering a whip to the ropes into a Blackhole Slam for a nearfall. Barrett then went to the mat looking to stretch Bryan, who fought back with a knee strike against the ropes. On the floor, Bryan landed a running knee strike to the jaw that knocked Barrett on his back.
 
Back in the ring, Bryan went up top for a double-foot dropkick that resulted in a two count. The two men went back and forth before Bryan slapped on a frontface submission that he transitioned into a LeBell Lock. Barrett teased tapping out, but reached the bottom rope for a break. The action moved up top and Barrett crotched Bryan before landing a flying clothesline. Center-ring, Barrett delivered Wasteland and it was good for the win. Cole called it a 50/50 match that was a stalemate throughout. Lawler was speechless at Cole giving Bryan credit. They went to a replay of Barrett in trouble during the LeBell Lock before Barrett came back for the win.
 
WINNER: Barrett at 11:47. After an hour to forget, a nice match to get this PPV on track for the first time in the night. Barrett looked good, picking up a much-needed win. As for Bryan, it was the best-case scenario for a loss: looking good in defeat after a solid match. Despite Bryan holding the MITB briefcase, WWE simply doesn't see Bryan above Barrett's level, so the outcome was inevitable. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:30 pm
5 -- World Hvt. champion CHRISTIAN (w/out Edge) vs. RANDY ORTON -- World Title match -- No Holds Barred
 
Christian tried to run away early on, but Orton chased him down in the crowd and threw him back into the ring. Orton blasted away on Christian with right hand blows, but Christian rammed Orton shoulder-first into the ringpost to steal control away from Orton. The crowd was split in their support of Christian and Orton, of note. Christian retrieved a kendo stick from under the ring and used it as a weapon, trying to get Orton to give up.

Orton suddenly scored a two-and-nine-tenths count on a roll-up out of the corner when Christian nearly didn't kick out in time. Christian quickly cut off Orton, though, and went back to the kendo stick. However, Orton intercepted a kendo stick blow from the second rope with a mid-air dropkick. Orton, with a bloody mouth, and Christian then exchanged offense as the crowd ate it up. Orton suddenly got that look in his eyes and wanted The Punt, but Christian slipped to the floor. On the outside, Orton dropped Christian on the ring steps to daze the champion. Orton was the next to search under the ring for some weapons. Orton found two tables to his liking and slid one table into the ring.
 
On the ring apron, Orton took Christian up top and super-plexed Christian off the top turnbuckle onto the flat table center-ring. Orton made a cover, but the champ kicked out. Orton then set up the table in the corner and flashed a big smile to the crowd. Christian blocked a table whip, though, and delivered a reverse DDT. Christian then crouched in the corner for Edge's Spear, but Orton avoided, then Christian blocked the RKO, and Christian dumped Orton over the top rope. Orton whipped Christian into the ring steps, though, to cut off Christian's momentum.
 
At 15:00, Orton picked up the ring steps and Christian reversed a whip into the ring steps. More counters and reversals. Christian then placed Orton on the Spanish announce table and mocked his viper-like stance. Christian tried to follow with an RKO, but Orton blocked and sent Christian through the table with an RKO. After a pause to sell the spot, both men crawled back into the ring. Suddenly, Christian dropped Orton with the Unprettier, but Orton kicked out in time, which popped the crowd. Nice pacing going up, down, up from the RKO to the Unprettier. Christian then went to the outside to retrieve two chairs to bring into the ring. Christian measured Orton for the Conchairto and spit down on Orton's face before missing with a chair shot. Orton then got up, took the other chair, and cracked it over Christian's back. Orton followed with a chair jab that sent Christian flying off the ring apron through the second table positioned ringside.
 
On the floor at 20:30, Orton slid the ring steps into the ring before going under the ring to throw numerous weapons inside the ring. Orton rolled Christian back into the ring and stalked Christian for his next move. Christian avoided a stomp on the steps, but ate a powerslam through the table propped up in the corner. Orton clutched his left wrist to suggest a potential injury before grabbing the kendo stick to crack over Christian's back. Orton then positioned a trashcan near the ropes to deliver his trademark spike DDT into the can. Orton, with blood splattered on his body, measured Christian for the RKO, but Christian popped him with a kendo stick out of nowhere. Christian then tried a sunset flip move, but Orton intercepted him with a mid-air RKO, just like their first PPV title encounter a few months ago. Orton clutched his head, then slowly covered Christian to become World Hvt. champion again. Post-match: Orton celebrated with the World Title belt in the corner as Christian was dragged out of the ring to sell the effects.
 
WINNER: Orton at 23:42 to capture the World Hvt. Title. A strong PPV title match in their series of strong PPV title matches, using the weapons-match formula effectively. WWE suggested on the pre-show that this is the last encounter between Orton and Christian, so it remains to be seen where they go from here. (****)

6 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. WWE champion JOHN CENA -- WWE Title unification match -- Triple H special referee
 
Early feeling out process before the two champions paused for a loud dueling chant. Regarding Hunter's role, Cole said some believe there's a conflict of interest with Hunter playing "cop and judge." More feeling out process as the two men traded technical holds and one-counts. Punk with the first sustained offense of the match that led to a dropkick off the ring apron that sent Cena to the floor. Hunter applied a ten count and Cena re-entered at five. Cena came back with sustained offense, but Punk intercepted a classic shoulder tackle with a mid-air knee lift for a two count.
 
Punk and Cena started countering each other's signature sequences, then Cena did the You Can't See Me wave that Punk blocked before delivering an STO into a neck vice submission. Cena fought it off, then countered into an STF. Punk countered into a keylock submission for a few moments that Cena suddenly countered into an STF. Punk made the bottom rope with his foot, though, creating a break. Nice sequence there.
 
At 13:40, Punk dumped Cena over the top rope to the floor and Hunter began his count. Punk then launched himself through the ropes with a suicide dive that sent both men into the guardrail. Hunter started his count again and reached nine, then decided to stop counting. He threw Cena into the ring, then threw Punk into the ring. Hunter shouted down that he wants a winner and for them to fight. The two men came to their feet at the same time and started trading bombs. Cena suddenly delivered a dropkick and dropped the Shuffle to Punk. Cena wanted the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk countered. They started trading pin attempts before Punk delivered a sweeping leg kick for a nearfall.
 
At 17:30, Punk teased the G2S, but Cena blocked. Cena then delivered a modified powerslam for a two count. Booker said Cena is the real deal, which Lawler echoed for Punk. Cena then went up top looking for a high-risk move, but Punk blocked with a high knee to the jaw. Suddenly, the PPV froze with Punk perched up top. About five seconds later, Cena kicked out of a pin attempt. Punk then tried a springboard move, but Cena countered with the STF. Punk screamed as Hunter checked on whether he wanted to tap. Punk made it to the bottom rope moments later and Cena was forced to break.
 
At 20:15, the two men traded finishing teases before Cena delivered the AA, but Punk kicked out in time. The camera zoomed in tight on Cena selling disbelief. Cena continued to look down at the mat before smiling and asking Hunter about his count. Cena, not quite satisfied, went to the top rope and missed with a guillotine leg drop. As Cena sold a leg injury, Punk followed right up with the G2S. Punk made a cover, but Cena kicked out just before three. The crowd didn't pop huge for the nearfall, as it was an expected tit-for-tat finisher kickout sequence.
 
At 22:30, Punk slowly slipped to the apron and climbed up top. Punk wanted a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop and connected as Cena tried to move. Cena kicked out of a pin attempt, though, which brought the big eyes from Punk. "Randy Savage" chant from the crowd as Hunter and Punk exchanged words. Suddenly, Cena rolled up Punk, but only scored a nearfall. Punk then kicked Cena in the gut and Cena came back with some emphatic kicks and strikes. Punk came back with his own sequence of emphatic strikes before delivering another G2S. Punk made the cover, but Cena had his foot on the rope at one. Still there at two. Hunter still didn't see it and Punk scored a three count. Cole screamed that Cena's foot was on the ropes as Punk took his title belt.
 
WINNER: Punk at 24:10 to become Undisputed WWE champion. Another excellent back-and-forth between these two top stars. Not long enough to be at the level of MITB, but another four-star-plus effort. (****1/4)
 
Suddenly, Alberto Del Rio's music hit and Del Rio stormed the ring with a new referee. Hunter was walking around, still stunned by what happened with Nash.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- WWE Title match

The bell sounded to make this official. Booker: "I don't believe this." Hunter was stunned, seeing his entire regime falling apart before him. Del Rio hit a step-up enziguiri, then made a cover and he's the new WWE champion. You could kind of see this on Raw when Punk got the win on Del Rio, then Del Rio would cash in, and now they're 1-1. Hunter talked to the referee, still shocked over what happened. Del Rio left up the entrance ramp as Lawler asked what Kevin Nash (not Diesel) was doing here. Del Rio was shown celebrating on the stage as the announcers tried to figure out what just happened. Del Rio was shown celebrating on the stage to conclude the show at 10:50.
 
WINNER: Del Rio at 0:06 to capture the WWE Title. Del Rio isn't over right now, but, what has become routine for WWE is to put a top title on a mid-card heel to "legitimize him" in the eyes of the audience. Where this storyline could be going is Nash was Stephanie and/or Vince's hired "back-up plan" to ensure the title did not stay with Punk if he were to win the match over Cena. This time, Vince's attempt to have Del Rio cash in against Punk at MITB would work after Nash softened him up.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:31 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52193.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Truth nearly won the FCA match with a quick roll-up in the first minute, then Morrison clotheslined Truth over the top rope to the floor. Morrison then measured Truth for a twisting plancha on the floor for a two count. The match moved to the other side of the arena floor and Morrison delivered a step-up kick off the guardrail for a two count. Truth then blocked a suplex attempt and delivered a front suplex for a nearfall. Cole declared Morrison is going to get got as they cut to break.

Back from break, Morrison was sprawled out on the floor before Truth scored a two count and complained about referee Scott Armstrong's cadence. Truth then got into it with an Ultimate Warrior clone on the front row complete with wild hair, tassels, and facepaint. Truth continued the assault with a running strike into the guardrail for a two count. The ringside fans began chanting "Little Jimmy," which drew Truth's ire. Truth assaulted Morrison, then got into it with Fake Warrior again. Truth followed with an atomic drop across the guardrail in front of Warrior, then clotheslined him over the guardrail to the front row as fake Warrior posed in Truth's face. Truth then suplexed Morrison onto the floor as the announcers offered some plugs for the live event experience to see this kind of action up close and personal.

Truth tossed Morrison back over the guardrail to ringside, but took too much time staring at fans. Morrison recovered and kicked Truth on the way over for a nearfall. Truth recovered, though, and assaulted Morrison some more before retrieving an announcer chair. Morrison blocked, though, and suplexed Truth into the chair before nailing him with a knee strike to the face. Ross called it a slobberknocker of a shot as Truth fell over to the ground. Truth with the cover for the win on the floor. Cole noted Truth dominated nearly the entire match before Morrison pulled it out in the end. Morrison, limping, returned to the ring to pose as they went to a replay of the finish.

WINNER: Morrison at 10:49. Nice match that WWE doesn't offer too often on TV, so it stood out. I'm not sure who the star of the match was, though: Fake Warrior or R-Truth, who was terrific dominating this match and creating intrigue leading to Morrison's comeback and eventual win. This was an even-steven match pointing to a possible re-match unless WWE wanted to quickly end this and move on with both men. (**1/4)

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE vs. BELLA TWINS (NIKKI & BRIE BELLA)

Is there any chance of Eve joining Beth & Natalya or will she be in Kelly's shadow for the rest of her career? Kelly got in early offense before the Bellas cut her off. Eve hot-tagged into the match, Kelly cleared Bella #1, and Eve delivered a top-rope moonsault on Bella #2 for the win. Post-match: Phoenix and Natalya walked out on-stage and mock applauded the victorious babyface Divas. Kelly held up her Divas Title belt to show Beth she didn't get the job done at Summerslam.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 3:05. Fine continuation from Summerslam to keep Beth in the title picture.

3 -- ALEX RILEY vs. JACK SWAGGER

Cole asked Ziggler if it's true he wouldn't be U.S. champion without Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler took the opportunity to talk himself up as a champion. He added that Vickie complements him like a nice garnish on a steak. Ziggler shot down a fat joke from Lawler as Swagger wore down Riley in the ring. Ziggler and Vickie continued to sell tension as Ziggler noted Vickie's bad breath is an issue. Cole tried to play Lawler mocking Vickie, so Ziggler shot back on Cole. Ziggler then mocked Vickie some more as the announcers continued to avoid the in-ring happenings. Vickie had enough and dropped her headset to mock Ziggler. Vickie then grabbed Ross's hat and put the hat on to parade around ringside. Vickie hopped on the ring apron and put the hat on the referee, who threw it down at ringside and tried to reprimand Vickie.

In the confusion, Swagger smashed Riley into the ropes before botching a gutwrench powerbomb attempt twice. He finally got it on the third time and scored the pin for the win. Cole said it's the first victory for Swagger on Raw in over a month. Vickie mock-applauded Swagger's win as Ziggler left the announce table to pick up Ross's hat. Ziggler then stepped on Ross's hat and gave it back to Ross. Cole said he's even offended by that. Ross said he thought Ziggler had more class than that. Cole said Ross looks pretty good without a hat. Ziggler went back to talking to the announcers as Vickie left ringside separately.

WINNER: Swagger at 4:24. What a trainwreck of a match, booking, and commentary complete with WWE (McMahon's) continued juvenile treatment of Ross. One of those examples of McMahon being bored and not having competition so he gets a kick out of segments like this one. In the meantime, WWE has seemingly lost track of Riley's push post-Miz.

4 -- WWE tag champions MICHAEL MCGILLICUTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE -- non-title match

As the match started, Cole noted Shawn Michaels just tweeted about the Nash-Hunter issue and Cole referenced Sean Waltman being part of the Clique. The seeds planted at the Hall of Fame continue to grow. The announcers also noted Stephanie is suddenly back in the picture and the root of all of this is Triple H as COO. Cole interjected a quip on Swagger for botching the gutwrench and said he should perhaps stick to the anklelock. Lawler then called out the tag champs needing to show him something because it's the bland leading the bland. Cole mocked Ross's accent a few times before asking him if he ever knew Hillbilly Jim. Lawler interjected he'd like to see the tag champs put the titles on the lines more often.

The action eventually led to Bourne coming off the top with Air Bourne for the pin and the win. Ross said perhaps business will pick up in the tag division with Kofi and Bourne picking up a win. He said they need a tag title opportunity. After a replay of the finish, they showed Bourne and Kofi celebrating as the tag champs were shown clutching their tag title belts on the stage.

WINNERS: Bourne & Kofi at 4:42. Another reminder of WWE being lost or unchallenged creatively, focusing on the performance aspect of the wrestling contests rather than stressing winners and losers as a simulated sport. The match action was presented as inconsequential due to the focus of the commentary.

5 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. REY MYSTERIO -- WWE Title match

Ross set the stage as the two men locked up center-ring and engaged in a feeling-out process. Cole noted there's a lot of pressure on Del Rio in his first title defense. Two Del Rio imposters on the front row taunted Rey Fans early on as the champ worked over Rey. Rey then came back with a 619 tease, but Del Rio bailed to the outside for a breather. They cut to break.

Back from break, Del Rio was trying to rip off Rey's mask in the middle of a mathold. Rey broke free, then landed a double-foot dropkick to the face as he sold his lingering knee injury. Rey tried to climb up top, but Del Rio crotched him. Del Rio tried a top-rope suplex, but Rey countered with a super swinging Tornado DDT. He followed with a springboard splash for a two count. Rey followed with a sunset slip for another nearfall that drew ooohs from the crowd. Del Rio then cut off Rey with a strike to the face to catch his breath and slow down Rey.

Del Rio wore down Rey as Cole tried to put over Del Rio employing many workers in Mexico. Ross quipped Del Rio underpays his workers, only giving them 25-30 cents an hour. Del Rio then missed with a dropkick and spilled to the outside. Rey followed with a baseball slide kick before delivering a springboard moonsault on the floor. The ref applied a ten count as both men slowly made it to their feet. Rey rolled Del Rio back into the ring, then went up top for a seated senton into the 619 set-up. Rey went for the 619, but Del Rio cut him off with a clothesline for a two count.

At the top of the hour, Del Rio dropped Rey with a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker for a nearfall as Cole reset the show. Cole noted WWE having more questions than answers with regards to the Hunter-Nash issue. Meanwhile, Del Rio put Rey up top and delivered a step-up enziguiri for a close two count only. Suddenly, Rey rolled up Del Rio and scored a two count. Del Rio came right back with a kick strike to the face that put both men on the mat. "619, 619" chant as Del Rio surveyed the arena. Del Rio tried to quiet them with the cross arm-breaker, but Rey countered with the 619. Rey then went for a top-rope splash, but Del Rio got his knees up. Del Rio rolled right into a quick pin and it was good for the win. Del Rio retains the WWE Title, which Ricardo excitedly announced to the crowd.

WINNER: Del Rio at 12:50 to retain the WWE Title. Solid match between Rey and Del Rio. Good TV main event to book-end the strong opening match between Morrison and Truth. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 17 2011, 02:31 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_52244.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JTG vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd taunted JTG early on to establish JTG as the default face for this match-up. Meanwhile, the announcers discussed Yoshi Tatsu's whereabouts after Kidd took him out a few weeks ago. JTG did not play much of a valiant face, as he tapped out to a half-Boston Crab after three minutes.

WINNER: Kidd via submission at 3:02. NXT has officially run out of wrestlers.

Post-match: A cryptic symbol flashed on the screen, suggesting Yoshi Tatsu's presence in the arena. Kidd looked around the arena searching for answers, but none were coming. They cut to the announcers to discuss Matt Striker returning to the ring the last two weeks on NXT. Grisham sent it backstage for a promo from Striker, who said he wants a re-match with Darren Young tonight because he wasn't prepared to face him last week. He said he's not making excuses, then went on to talk about excuses for a minute. Striker sternly told Young he is not ready for what Matt Striker will bring to him. It's next.

2 -- MATT STRIKER vs. DARREN YOUNG

Striker lit up D-Young early on with multiple strikes in the corner. Young tried to recover on the floor, so Striker stomped his fingers into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Striker worked over Young's left arm/shoulder with a deep wrenching armbar Young was bleeding from the mouth this week after Striker bled heavily from the nose last week. The intense battle moved to the ring apron, where D-Young suplexed Striker across the edge of the ring. Young then went to work on Striker with mat-based offense. Young tried to follow with a slingshot move from the apron, but Striker intercepted with a nice spinning facebuster. Striker made a cover, but Young got his foot on the rope and Triple H wasn't the ref here, so the match continued.

Striker followed up with a backstabber, but Young kicked out in time. Striker then screamed toward the crowd, which responded, and tried an inside cradle for the pin, but Young - looking like John Cena - rolled right into a Roderick Strong-style fallaway gutbuster across his knees. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Young at 5:05. That was a heck of a five-minute match. D-Young has finally found an opponent to draw something out of him and Striker has developed a nice connection with the audience. Well done.

3 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Maxine) vs. TITUS O'NEIL

Titus was not accompanied by Hornswoggle, who the announcer surmised was checking on A.J. backstage. Titus took out his frustration on Bateman early on, beating him from pillar to post. Regal said he can't figure out Bateman quite yet as he continued to take a beating from Titus. Grisham noted Bateman's Pro, Daniel Bryan, disassociated from Bateman because of his odd behavior this season. Bateman came back with a snap dropkick for a two count, then pounded away on Titus. Regal said it gets his adrenaline going to see hard strikes like the two men were exchanging. Nice close-up on Titus selling intensity as he tried to make a comeback before Bateman cut him off with a neckbreaker. Regal began talking about a tortoise as Bateman ran over Titus with a shoulder tackle for a nearfall.

Bateman actually generated a reaction for his heel work as he continued to wear down the Redemption leader. Regal said perhaps Maxine is bringing out something from Bateman to get him away from being a goofball and more serious in the ring. Titus then shot on Bateman with a double-leg take down for a nearfall. Someone in the crowd shouted, "Finish him!" before Titus ran over Bateman with a clothesline.

Titus delivered a shoulderbreaker, but Bateman kicked out again. Titus followed with an overhead slam that sent Bateman rolling to the outside. Maxine checked on Bateman as Titus followed to the outside looking for more offense. As Bateman returned to the ring, Maxine grabbed Titus's foot when Bateman occupied the ref. Titus took his eye off the ball, allowing Bateman to roll him up from behind. It was good for the quick pin and the win. Post-match: Maxine and Bateman made out on the outside as Titus complained to the ref about the interference.

WINNER: Bateman at 6:18. Another nice in-ring showing here. Titus upped his game a notch and Bateman had his first solid in-ring showing since returning to NXT as a heel. Although not the best talker, Maxine's presence adds a new dimension to Bateman's character to firmly establish him as a heel, which had been missing on Season 5.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2011, 12:42 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 8-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_52318.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WADE BARRETT vs. TRENT BARRETA

Early in the match, Korpela interestingly referenced Barrett's ranking on WWE's make-believe Top 25 Power Ranking. That would be a nice marketing tool for WWE to use across the board on their TV programs, and actually use to hype match-ups between mid-card wrestlers looking to leapfrog each other by winning matches. Barrett dominated the first three minutes and knocked Trent to the floor. On the outside, Barrett missed with a kick strike and ate the guardrail. Trent lit him up with hard chops, then perched himself on the guardrail to deliver an innovative corkscrew plancha on Barrett.

Both men barely beat the ten count back into the ring as they replayed Trent's high-risk attack. Back in the ring, Trent executed a missile dropkick for a two count. It was Trent's last gasp, as Barrett came back with a loud standing kick before hoisting Trent onto his shoulders for an impactful Wasteland. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Barrett at 5:11. Good five-minute match. Barrett carried himself like a former main-eventer looking to get back in the title picture while Trent offered some nice athleticism to balance Barrett's power-house offense.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. JOSE VARGAS

The bell sounded and Clay wasted no time pounding on Vargas. Korpela noted Clay is not a bodyguard for anyone any more, as he's carving his own path. Clay had the pin one minute in, but wasn't satisfied, so he continued to punish Vargas. Clay then delivered a massive lariat and it was good for the win. A subsequent replay was nearly as long as the match before they cut to Clay celebrating the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:18. Fine re-building effort behind Clay before they find the right program for him on Raw or Smackdown.

3 -- SANTINO vs. PRIMO

Santino, sporting a full beard, took control of the action early on. They did a comedy spot blocking each other's hip toss attempts as they danced around the ring. Primo then turned the lighthearted moment into a heelish attack when he cheap-shotted Santino. Primo went to work as Stanford noted that Santino has decided to pursue a singles run after failing to find a suitable tag partner. Santino made his comeback at 5:00 with left hand jabs that fired up the crowd. Santino then dropped down, hip-tossed, and delivered his diving fist for a nearfall. Josh Mathews interjected Santino is looking to develop his own style of MMA fighting: Marella Martial Arts. Santino then warmed up the non-MMA Cobra and struck Primo for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Santino at 6:05. From week-to-week, you never know what WWE is going to do with Santino, but this was a fine, basic-level start for Santino's "MMA" singles push.

4 -- ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Stanford noted McIntyre is frustrated. Mathews said Mac can only blame himself and he needs a breakout performance soon. McIntyre aggressively went after Ryder early on, but frustrated himself when Ryder was able to avoid his attack. Mac flashed Ryder a wry grin, then kicked him in the gut and went on the attack. Ryder came back with a clothesline that took McIntyre over the top rope to the floor. Ryder followed with a plancha and flashed a smile for the camera.

Back in the ring, McIntyre rolled out of the ring. Ryder followed to the outside again, which set off a ringside brawl. Mac got the best of the exchange with a spinebuster across the ring apron. Back in the ring, Mac went to work on Ryder's back as a "Let's Go Ryder" chant broke out. They cut to break with McIntyre in control.

Back from break, McIntyre continued to work over Ryder, who managed to knock Mac out of the ring to get a breather. Once Mac re-entered the ring, Ryder blasted him with strikes before delivering the Broski Boot for a nearfall. Ryder tried to follow with the Rough Ryder, but McIntyre countered with an emphatic slam for a close two count. Mac tried not to get frustrated as Ryder continued to kick out of pin attempts. McIntyre then flashed another wry grin and wanted the Future Shock, but Ryder blocked once, twice, then nailed the Rough Ryder. Quick pin and it was good for the win. Post-match: Ryder celebrated in the ring as McIntyre checked his jaw ringside trying to collect himself after another loss.

WINNER: Ryder at 9:15. Nice showing for Ryder, who looked like a legitimate wrestling star working with McIntyre, who will always be a "favorite" because of his size & look despite currently being irrelevant. Again, you never know from week-to-week how WWE will present stars, but good use of time to develop Ryder's credibility in the ring to match his personality showcases on YouTube.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2011, 12:42 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 8-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_52471.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SCOTT STEINER vs. DEVON -- Bound for Glory Series Match

Matt Morgan joined Tenay and Taz at ringside to analyze the match. Morgan noted that Devon has dropped 60 pounds. Morgan said everyone is stepping up because this the World Title at stake. Taz said if you don't want the holy grail, the World Title, you don't belong here. Devon hit a sideslip for a two count. Steiner caught a charging Devon with an elbow and then pinned him with his feet on the middle rope, just as Ray did over the weekend. The announcers didn't mention that because this TV match taped before that house show match took place.

WINNER: Steiner in 2:00.

-Samoa Joe came out and attacked Devo afterward. He put him in his new leglock. Devon's kids and his wife called for help from the back. Terrence and Tyrell ran into the ring and confronted Joe. D'Angelo Dinero ran out and got in Joe's face. Joe jumped out of the ring. Morgan said he used to have respect for Joe.

2 -- X DIVISION GAUNTLET MATCH

-Shelley vs. Haskins: Taz said friends of Haskins call him Skins. Tenay and Taz acted bewildered by the nickname. Haskins countered a Sliced Bread and then hit a lift-knee finisher for the win. I'll all for establishing new stars, but this was a bit much, having a new guy beat the established top tier X Division star in two minutes makes everything seem arbitrary unless they're pushing Haskins as the Goldberg of the division. Plus it's irritating when a match-up is booked to end quickly simply because it's a gauntlet match and they have to fit a bunch of falls into a one-match segment, even though there's no logical reason for the match-up to end any quicker than any other one-on-one match would.

-Haskins vs. Robbie: Haskins rolled up Robbie E. right away as Robbie was arguing with Cookie.

-Haskins vs. Zema Ion: Zema scored a near fall after a top rope dropkick at the start. Zema finished Haskins with a 450 off the top rope at 3:00 (overall).

-Zema vs. Jesse Sorensen: Sorensen won in 1:00. This is ridiculous. The action is crisp and athletic and entertaining, but the rapid pitfalls defy any logic and just make everyone look like losers.

-Sorensen vs. Tony Nese: By 6:00 Sorensen was eliminated.

-Kid Kash vs. Sorensen: They actually cut to a commercial. Wrestling matters, really. And in the three minutes they're away, there should be two pinfalls based on the pace of the early finishes. Of course, the match was still in progress after the break. They just happened to pick the "marathon" match-up to cut away from. Right after the break Sorensen won with a roll-through leverage pin at 12:00 overall.

-Sorensen vs. Austin Aries: As Aries got ready to enter, Kash gave Sorensen a double-underhook piledriver. That looked reckless and dangerous. Aries put his foot on Sorensen's chest in a cocky manner, but Sorensen kicked out. Aries yelled at the ref, saying he should count faster. Sorensen scored a near fall with a roll-up. Aries came back with a spear dropkick in the corner followed by a brainbuster suplex for the win.

WINNER: Aries in 12:00.

-Christy Hemme interviewed Aries at ringside. Aries bragged about taking out seven X Division stars. He said that means he is the no. 1 contender. He quoted Eric Bischoff, calling Brian Kendrick "The Wizard of Odd." He said he will beat him and prove he is the greatest man who ever lived. Kendrick walked out and offered a handshake. Aries asked if he was gay and then pulled his hand away. Kendrick jumped Aries from behind as he walked up the ramp. Security tried to pry Kendrick off of Aries.

3 -- ODB (w/Jackie) vs. MICKIE JAMES

Mickie hit a Thesz Press at 4:00 and then went for a leaping DDT. ODB pushed her off mid-air and then splashed her in the corner Stinger style. She followed up with a Rough Rider attempt, but Mickie moved. Mickie then gave ODB her leaping DDT for the win. Afterward a frustrated Jackie offered a handshake to Mickie, but then pulled it away once Mickie was about to accept.

WINNER: Mickie in 5:00.

4 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. A.J. STYLES -- Bound for Glory Series

The announcers recapped the issue RVD has with Jerry Lynn and the situation between Styles and Daniels. They showed Lynn watching from ringside. How does he look the same as he looked 22 years ago when I first started watching his indy matches in Minneapolis on a regular basis? At 3:00 Lynn jumped out of his chair and yelled at the ref for counting too closely on an RVD cover on Styles. RVD shoved Styles off the top rope to the mat and then went for a splash, but Styles lifted his knees leading to a near fall at 4:00. Styles ducked an RVD spin wheel kick, then hit RVD with a Pele kick. When he went for the cover, as the ref began his count, Lynn yanked the ref out of the ring. The ref called for the bell.

WINNER: Styles via DQ in 5:00.

5 -- BEER MONEY vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (Hernandez & Anarquia w/Rosita & Sarita) - Impact Wrestling Tag Team Championships

They billed this as Mexican America's final shot at Beer Money. Jeff Jarrett and Karen joined Tenay and Taz at the Spanish announce table. Jarrett and Karen bragged about knowing the intricacies of the Spanish culture. They did a lousy job promoting this match, by the way. I'm all for the tag titles being featured in the main event, but they have to talk about it before it happens. Tenay got bleeped telling Jarrett he immortalized the AAA Title. I assume he said AAA. Borash added a plug for "5 Hour Energy" to his formal ring introduction. Tenay noted that Angle has accepted Crimson's challenge for next week. At 5:00 Rosita interfered to stop Beer Money's momentum. She spit at Storm. Karen ran to the ring to protect her "Mexican sister." Jarrett said she's just too good-hearted. Anarquia threw Storm out of the ring, but Roode gave him a spinebuster. Sarita distracted the ref as Hernandez KO'd Roode with the Jarrett's title belt for the win.

WINNERS: Mexican America in 6:00 to capture the Impact Wrestling Tag Team Titles.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2011, 12:43 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only. (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_52363.shtml)

1 – CODY RHODES vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Jackson took the power to Rhodes early on and even landed a sidewalk slam in which he twirled around a few times while holding Cody in the move. I guess that’s his way of showing personality. Rhdoes missed an enziguiri and Jackson got two on the pin. Rhodes ducked down and hit an uppercut, but then fell victim to a back body-drop. Rhodes went back on offense with body shots, but allowed Jackson to get back to his feet in the corner. Forearm shot to the jaw for a near-fall. Jackson clubbed Rhodes in the neck and back in the corner. Rhodes avoided a slam and fled to ringside. Jackson tossed Rhodes over the ring steps and Rhodes took a spill to the floor. I feel like that would be the lesser of two evils, the other option being thrown INTO the stairs rather than over them. Rhodes kicked the stairs into Jackson’s leg, which hobbled the big man. Back in the ring, Rhodes landed his springboard kick, then Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 3:32. Looks like ol’ Zeke could be going the way of Vladimir Kozlov after Vlad’s initial big push.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd took Gabriel down with a rear waist-lock, then a shoulder tackle. Kidd took Gabriel head-first into the middle buckle, using his feet to do so. Cover by Kidd for only one. Kidd stretched Gabriel’s arms, putting the knee right into the back of his opponent’s neck. Back-and-forth action, then a spinning back-kick by Gabriel that barely caught Kidd. Booker even brought up that Kidd may be missing something, and mentioned a manager as one of those possibilities. Did he really watch Superstars or pay attention to those matches on his brand? Take-down by Gabriel and both men were down at 3:43. Gabriel went to the top but Kidd met him. Gabriel slammed him down, then connected on a 450 splash with Kidd further out from the corner than usual. Still, no problem for Gabriel.

WINNER: Gabriel, at 4:19. Really nice, short match. It wasn’t a squash, as both men had moments where they looked impressive.

3 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DANIEL BRYAN

This match was in the exact same segment last week. “Daniel Bryan” chants as soon as the bell rang to start the match. Bryan worked over Del Rio with kicks in the corner. Del Rio returned fire by taking Bryan down and laying the boots to him. Del Rio worked the arm and again the crowd chanted for Bryan. Headbutt took Bryan down. Headlock take-over by Del Rio. Back on his feet, knee-lift by Bryan, then a hard kick to Del Rio’s back and upper torso. Del Rio pulled Bryan off the top and brought Bryan’s arm across his knees. Sunset flip attempt by Bryan at 4:13, but Del Rio instead dropped the elbow across Bryan’s arm. Cole is predictably insufferable here, particularly arguing with Mathews over Kevin Nash’s involvement at Summerslam and hyperventilating over Bryan’s YouTube channel. Irish whip into the buckle by Del Rio felled Bryan. Arm-bar as Del Rio went back to working the arm once again. Cole called Mathews “babyface Josh” for rooting for the Cowboys in the movie “Cowboys & Aliens.” This is just so ridiculous.

Another headbutt by Del Rio, but he ran into a back elbow by Bryan in the corner. Hard kicks on ADR in the corner. Bryan built some momentum at 7:30, but struggled to capitalize after a clothesline. Bryan back-dropped Del Rio to ringside then dove off the apron with a flying knee to the face of the WWE Champion. Bryan came off the top and landed on his feet back in the ring, and Del Rio gave him a sweet German suplex with a bridge for two. Del Rio appeared to be bleeding from the lip or mouth. He set Bryan on the top rope, but a suplex couldn’t connect as he rolled over for a body-press. Both men were down at 9:45 when they went to break.

Back at 13:15 with Bryan delivering more kicks. The men did the “boo, yay” thing in the middle of the ring, before Bryan got the advantage. Running dropkick in the corner. Rodriguez was freaking out at ringside as Bryan went to the top. Missile dropkick found the mark for a near-fall. Bryan went into his body kicks for about the fourth time in the match, but nothing came of it. Bryan locked in the front guillotine, but Del Rio rammed him into the corner to break it. Suplex into a cover, but instead of sticking with it, he locked in the cross arm-breaker for the submission win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 15:23. Now that’s more like it. If they wanted to show Bryan as being a big-time competitor, as they did here lasting 15 minutes with the WWE Champion, not sure why they jobbed him out to the same guy in under four minutes last week.

4 – KELLY KELLY & AJ vs. NATALYA & ALICIA FOX

AJ tried an arm-drag, but Nattie stopped her. She also didn’t move on a roll-up attempt. Off the second rope, Nattie caught AJ on a cross-body attempt. AJ did a float-over into a headscissors take-over, a nice move. Natalya didn’t seem fazed, as she continued to power AJ down and no-sell most of her stuff. She dragged AJ by the hair over to the corner and tagged Fox. Fox did little of note in the ring, but did take AJ down with a hair pull. She dragged AJ by the legs into the corner, where Nattie tagged in. Double suplex and a Natalya cover for two. Cole called AJ’s argyle ring gear “from the Kerwin Silfies collection” (Silfies is a director of WWE programming). Fox choked AJ in the corner with her foot, but AJ fought out and made the tag at 3:27. Kelly with a Thesz Press on Fox, then she spanked her. Headscissors take-down by Kelly. She rubbed her butt in Fox’s face in the corner. Hurricanrana and a pin broken up by Natalya, almost too late. Fox missed a scissors kick after Nattie took out AJ. K2 legdrop for the win.

WINNERS: AJ and Kelly, at 4:31. A marathon match by Divas standards, and most of it was AJ selling, which wasn’t terribly exciting.

Post-match, Natalya got in Fox’s face, showing displeasure over the loss. She called Fox a moron and Fox told Nattie to get out of her face. Natalya backed down. As Fox went to the apron, Natalya knocked her to ringside with a forearm shot. Nattie then applied the Sharpshooter on the arena floor.

5 – 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Khali backed Mahal in the corner as soon as the bell rang, to protected him. Everyone went after Mark Henry and he shrugged them off. He dropped Trent Barreta hard and sent him out at :20. Yoshi Tatsu gone at :28 of the Battle Royal, again courtesy of Henry. Hey, there’s William Regal! Khali stayed in front of Mahal in the corner. Barrett eliminated Johnny Curtis at 1:04. He came close to eliminating Rhodes a few seconds later. Heath Slater squirmed back into the ring from the apron, but Kidd tried to kick him back out. Hard chop to the chest of Regal by Khali. Sheamus had DiBiase teetering on the ropes. Ryder was hip-tossed out by Cara at 2:12, and there were a few boos for that. Rhodes skinned the cat back in, but Jackson clotheslined him out at 2:38. Early exit for Cody. Jackson then squared off with Khali. Hard body shots and punches, then a running clothesline. Khali with a brain chop, then he threw Jackson out with ease at 3:13. Henry and Khali sized each other up. I think there was a “Sin Cara” chant though it sounded like “619.” Henry was sent to the mat with a brain chop. Henry then picked up Khali and dumped him at 4:01. Mahal was incredulous. Sheamus took Henry down with a forearm and Henry rolled under the bottom rope. Sheamus kicked Slater out at 4:48 and Henry feasted on the remains. Orton got a glimpse of Henry up close and they went to break at 5:13.

Back at 9:04 with Sheamus and Mahal in peril courtesy of Gabriel and Cara. They were both able to survive. Henry was still at ringside. Looks like the herd has thinned out a bit, with Regal having been eliminated during the break. Gabriel went out in a high-risk move by Cara at 10:52. Henry picked up Gabriel and threw him over the barricade and into the fans. The Usos were tossed by Sheamus at 11:18. Henry assaulted them as well. One was thrown into the announce table and looked like he kicked Mathews as he hit. Henry ree-ntered the match and Mahal and DiBiase went after him. He tossed Mahal at 12:11 and DiBiase at 12:17. Kidd was out at 12:33 via Cara. We’re down to Barrett, Sheamus, Cara, and Henry. Crowd liked Cara. All four men looked at each other as we finally heard from Mathews again. The three men went for Henry, cornering him and laying in the boots. Sheamus wore Henry down with knees to the face. Barrett then clotheslined Sheamus. He tried to eliminate Sheamus, but he landed on the apron. He pulled Barrett over and the two men pounded away on each other on the apron. Sheamus booted Barrett down at 14:23. Cara dove at Sheamus and Cara went through the ropes. Back in the ring, he kicked Sehamus in the back of the head. Sheamus kicked Cara, who fell on his butt on the apron. Cara still would not go over. Sheamus set up for the Brogue Kick, but Henry picked Sheamus up and sent him out at 15:21. Cara came off the top with a cross-body, but Henry pushed Cara off and to ringside. Cara came back in and kicked the legs of Henry. Springboard cross-body, but Henry caught him and gave him the World’s Strongest Slam. Henry lifted Cara over his head and deposited him to ringside.

WINNER: Henry, at 16:36.

They replayed the last few big moves of the match. Henry went face-to-face with Orton at ringside as Henry’s music played. He took a sniff of Orton and said he smelled fear. Great way to end things.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2011, 12:44 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52454.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match
The bell sounded and the two men circled each other around the ring. Lawler with the early hyperbole trying to sell Cena-Punk later in the show by calling their match at Summerslam one of the greatest matches people have seen. Cole hyped Del Rio's week starting at Summerslam last Sunday as Del Rio worked over Morrison's arm and shoulder. Morrison came back with a quick pin attempt, but Del Rio kicked out. Morrison then slipped Del Rio to the outside and followed with a springboard moonsault attempt, but Del Rio avoided and shoved Morrison into the guardrail. Del Rio was in control as they cut to break.

Back from break, Del Rio was working on Morrison in the ring. Del Rio tried to charge Morrison in the corner, but Morrison flipped him over the top rope to the outside. Ricardo tried to help out Del Rio, who made his way back into the ring to accept a series of clotheslines and a dropkick. Ross called Morrison's comeback as Morrison set up for Starship Pain, but Del Rio ran away. Del Rio then ducked a clothesline and executed a German Suplex with a bridge for a nearfall. They went to a replay of Del Rio falling on the outside and showed his head bouncing hard off the floor. That didn't look pretty.

Morrison scored a close nearfall with the referee pausing to let Del Rio kick out since Del Rio seemed a bit loopy. This match needs to be stopped if Del Rio is legitimately showing signs of a concussion. Morrison then snapped off a huracanrana for another close two count. Del Rio was taking deep breaths as he landed right hand strikes to comeback on Morrison, who nailed the Flying Chuck. Morrison then went to the corner for Starship Pain, but Del Rio moved and rammed Morrison into the ringpost. Del Rio caught his breath, then went right into the cross arm-breaker center ring. Morrison had nowhere to go and he tapped out after a few moments.
WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 12:27. A bit of a start-stop match, but some good nearfalls for Morrison to keep him at the same level taking the loss. (I would argue they need to be doing more to elevate Morrison in light of Rey's absence.) For Del Rio, this is what was missing from The Miz's title run: some credible victories over credible opponents to build him up as a credible champion. (**)

2 -- EVE (w/Divas champion Kelly Kelly) vs. BELLA #1 (w/Bella #2)
Basic start with Nikki taking control and Eve making a comeback. Eve went for her moonsault finisher, but Nikki crotched her. Eve then hit a spike DDT for the pin and the win. Post-match: Beth and Natalya came out on-stage to give the polite golf clap applause to the babyfaces. Kelly held up her Divas Title belt for them to get another look at.
WINNER: Eve at 2:35. Just a match to fill time and set up the post-match, as a win over the Bella Twins is meaningless since they haven't won a TV match in three months.

3 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ALEX RILEY
A match-up of two "rising stars" like this should mean a lot more than a filler match in the dead fourth quarter-hour. Instead of this route, they could have taken a few weeks of build-up with Swagger picking up a decisive win, then Riley picking up a decisive win, and then having the match. Some basic action between Swagger and Riley brought a random man in a suit down the ramp 70 seconds in. Thee man in the suit was Dolph Ziggler, who wanted to talk to Vickie about her business with Swagger. In the background, Swagger was fumbling with Riley on the gutwrench suplex again. Vickie ended up being knocked down on the floor, which brought over Swagger to argue with Ziggler. Swagger then returned to the ring and was rolled up by Riley, who scored a quick three count. The focus then shifted to Ziggler and Vickie arguing up the entrance ramp.
WINNER: Riley at 2:02. More bizarre booking of the Raw mid-card. Riley's stock continues to slide, despite the win, since his victory and involvement was fourth or fifth-most important based on the presentation.

4 -- WWE tag champions MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA vs. KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE -- Tag Title match
Kofi started off in control of the action before the heels cut off Kofi on the floor. The announcers continued to focus on "textgate," which no one is calling, as the heels worked over Kofi. Cole said his problem is Hunter needs to get a grip on what's going on around here and he needs to get control over the Nash-Punk issue. Lawler finally got around to pointing out to Cole that the tag champs haven't defended the Tag Titles in a while. Cole said it's not their fault. Ross said they need to be more proactive defending the titles.

Bourne hot-tagged into the match at 4:15 and the action broke down. Kofi took Mike over the top rope to the floor, then smashed Otunga with Trouble in Paradise from the ring apron. Bourne followed right up with Air Bourne and made the cover. Bourne with the pin and it was good for the win. Kofi and Bourne get a prize. Lawler said everyone in the crowd is on their feet and "these kids" will set the tag division on fire. Ross wondered aloud if this will lead to a resurgence for the tag division. They stayed in the moment to make it seem like a re-start for the tag division.
WINNERS: Kingston & Bourne at 5:05 to capture the Tag Titles. The "restart" comes with the caveat that it seems like WWE had no ideas for Kofi and Bourne, so they were given the Tag Titles to have something to do. (*)

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. C.M. PUNK -- #1 contender match to WWE Title
The announcers played up Punk beating Cena in the past two title matches, but Lawler said he's not buying Punk since the first victory came via McMahon's interference and the second victory came via Hunter's officiating error. The crowd was hot early with a "Let's Go Oilers!" chant. (Where are Bum Phillips, Warren Moon, and Ray Childress when you need them?) Cena and Punk grabbed a headlock to take control of the match before Punk teased the Five Knuckle Shuffle, Cena teased his own FKS, and the action spilled to the outside. Both men were selling the effects as they cut to break.

Back from break, Cena had Punk in a headlock center-ring. They cut to a ringside shot to show Laurinaitis nearly asleep watching the match in the ring. Back in the ring, Cena and Punk teased their finishers. Punk then landed a springboard clothesline for a two count as cameras picked up a sign in the background reading: "I Texted Nash." Punk teased the G2S again, but Cena rolled through. More counters for each man. Crossface for Cena, but Punk reached the bottom rope for a break. Cole said he's glad this official is sharper than Hunter was. Punk then came back with the G2S out of nowhere, but Cena kicked out in time. Del Rio was shown leaning forward in his chair selling the close nearfall.

Punk re-positioned Cena in the corner, then slowly climbed up top, selling the effects of the match. Punk wanted a Macho Man elbow drop (which drew a big reaction), but Cena moved out of the way after Punk took too much time. Cena then rolled to the ring apron, gathered himself, and climbed up top for a guillotine leg drop that he connected with. Cena made the cover, but Punk kicked out. The crowd created the sound as the two men reset. Punk landed multiple elbow strikes to the neck, then a running knee that only led to a two count.

At the top of the hour, Cena suddenly nailed the Attitude Adjustment, but Punk kicked out. Cole reset the match as Cena collected himself in his corner and Punk sold the effects. Punk then landed headbutts and wanted a cross-body splash, but Cena rolled through and tried an AA, but Punk countered with a sunset flip for a two count. Punk then nailed a big kick strike that put both men on the mat. Punk made the time-to-sleep hand signal, but Nash's voice was suddenly heard. Nash walked out on-stage with mic in-hand telling Punk this isn't over yet. Lawler asked Laurinaitis for an explanation.

Nash slowly made his way to ringside, then Punk ran toward Cena, who hoisted Punk in the air for the AA. Nash left, then Cena made the cover and it was good for the win. Post-match: Del Rio immediately stormed the ring to attack Cena and lay him out on the mat. Laurinaitis then slipped into the ring to pull Del Rio off Cena. The heat wasn't there since the vocal males were disappointed with the finish (i.e. they were upset with WWE's booking, not upset with Nash for interfering against Punk). Del Rio eventually broke free to attack Cena. Del Rio dragged Cena to the outside and ran him into the guardrail as Laurinaitis tried to calm him down. They went off the air four minutes past the hour with Del Rio seething and Cena selling. Strong emphasis on Del Rio to close the show.
WINNER: Cena at 14:29 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Strong five minutes of action after the break, but the kick-outs of finishing moves continues to be a concern. As for trying to figure this Nash thing out, it's apparent Laurinaitis is working against Hunter (lying about Nash's car crash to get Hunter away from Raw), likely on-behalf of Vince and/or Stephanie. Meanwhile, WWE is continuing to plant seeds for a Punk-Nash match, which is probably why Laurinaitis talked to Nash "off-camera" last week to get him signed to a contract (which Hunter presumably doesn't know about) so he could legally face Punk with the goal to take out Punk, who is the anti-establishment figure, on behalf of Vince and/or Stephanie. If it's not that, this is one giant mess. At the end of the day, WWE is making their casual audience think too hard about this with so many different players in the mix. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 24 2011, 01:58 pm
WWE NXT Results: 8-23-11

Does anyone even watch the trainwreck that is NXT?!! PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_52497.shtml) has all the painful details.

This week's WWE NXT episode opened with another exchange between Matt Striker and Darren Young. Young beat down Striker, trying to prove his point against the old guard. William Regal made the save from the commentary position, coming to the aid of Striker.

1 -- TYSON KIDD vs. TRENT BARRETA

The crowd was hot for Kidd early on as the two men circled the ring. Referring to the writing on Kidd's bag in the previous segment, Regal threw out a Yoshi Kwan and Killer Khan reference. Regal continued to harp on Young's actions and words, saying he won't put up with it anymore. Kidd and Barreta had a stand-off, which drew applause from the crowd. Todd Grisham noted Kidd has won all of their previous match-ups and Barreta told him before the show that perhaps he needs a more conservative gameplan. Barreta cut off Kidd and worked him over on the mat before they abruptly cut to break.

Back from break, Barreta had Kidd in a side headlock, still trying to wear him down on the mat. Kidd then made a comeback with a double foot kick to the head for a two count. Regal said he could see Kidd a big star in two-to-five years, which brought up a good point from Grisham on whether he can sustain this hard style and pace for that long. Regal said he thinks so and he'll be able to adapt as he grows older in age. Kidd then found himself on the outside and Barreta went for a turnaround splash that came up short, causing him to crash hard on the floor as Kidd tried to catch him.

Back in the ring, Barreta made a cover for a two count. The crowd tried to rally behind Kidd as Barreta put him up top. Barreta wanted a superplex, but Kidd blocked, crotched Barreta (which Grsiham called the capital of Thailand), and climbed up top for a huracanrana. Barreta tried to follow through, but Kidd teased the Sharpshooter, which drew a huge reaction, only to have Barreta counter with a victory roll for a two count. Double knock down and they were on the mat again. At 13:00, they started trading bombs and strikes from their feet before Barreta scored with a running strike for a two count. They reset and Kidd caught Barreta in a single-leg Boston Crab. Barreta fought the hold before reaching the bottom rope for a break.

Suddenly, the ominous music played, supposedly from Yoshi Tatsu. Kidd was distracted by the music and latest message on the screen, then Barreta caught him from behind, nailed his DDT finisher, and scored the pin for the win. And Barreta ends his six match losing streak on TV. The crowd groaned as Barreta collected himself in victory to conclude the match.

WINNER: Barreta at 15:01.

In-ring: Maxine and Bateman slowly made their way to the ring as Regal thanked Grisham for helping him through the past 25 weeks of this show, with it being Grisham's last night on NXT. Interesting.

2 -- A.J. (w/Hornswoggle) vs. MAXINE (w/Derrick Bateman)

The match quickly moved to the floor and Bateman tried to give A.J. a fright, which gave Maxine an opening to take control of the match in the ring. Maxine began to freak out when she couldn't put A.J. away, then a few vocal fans picked up an "A-J" chant. Grisham recapped each of the Divas's history on NXT Season 3 to fill time as Maxine continued to wear down A.J. Grisham noted to Regal they're really struggling in this match. A.J. suddenly tried a roll-up, but Maxine kicked out. So, Maxine went back on the offensive. The announcers moved to Regal's English heritage next and Grisham encouraged Maxine to get it done already.

After A.J. made a comeback, Bateman took out Hornswoggle on the outside, which drew boos and A.J.'s attention away from the ring. Maxine then pinned a distracted A.J. for the win. Post-match: Titus O'Neil ran off the heels as the announcers wondered where he was 20 seconds earlier. Hornswoggle's music played as the faces called down to the heels to come do something.

WINNER: Maxine at 6:24. That was painful.

Raw Replay: A condensed version of the Cena vs. Punk match starting with Cena's ring entrance, a fan tossing Cena his t-shirt back, about eight minutes of the match, and Del Rio's post-match beat down on Cena to conclude NXT.

This was one of the worst NXT episodes of the season. The NXT series has become pointless, as there is barely a hint of this being a Rookie competition and there is no sign of this season coming to a conclusion any time soon. This season has lasted so long that even the lead announcer is leaving the show before its conclusion.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2011, 07:04 am
WWE Superstars Results: 8-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_52573.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHEAMUS vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater landed an early slap to the face, trying to frustrate the larger Sheamus. Sheamus eventually tracked down Slater and pounded on him with forearms and strikes. Slater tried to start a comeback, but Sheamus easily cut him off with a hard clothesline. Sheamus then randomly went up top and Slater crotched him before landing a double foot dropkick that cleared Sheamus to the outside. Why is Sheamus selling so much for Slater? On the floor, Slater landed more offense as Sheamus sold on the floor. The ref reached a five count when both men returned to the ring for Slater to make a cover for a two count.

Sheamus finally found a fire in his belly and ran over Slater with sledgehammers before scooping him up for a swinging sidewalk slam. Sheamus had enough of Slater and pounded on him with hard forearm blows across the chest followed by a running knee lift. Sheamus pounded his chest, then measured Slater for the Brogue Kick, but Slater ducked. Slater then nailed a kick to the lower back before landing a neckbreaker for a two count. Why is Slater getting so much offense in this match? Slater then went up top for a leaping maneuver, but Sheamus intercepted him with the Brogue Kick. Sheamus then delivered the High Cross for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 5:56. Sure, no one watches this, but how could WWE script Sheamus - a wrestler presented as a top-flight face in the World Title picture - to require six minutes to put away Slater after a near-even-steven match? At the end of the day, Sheamus got in his signature spots and stood tall at the end, which was fine.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. PETE GIBSON

Early clubbing offense from Clay, who had the pin 45 seconds in, but pulled off on the cover to continue inflicting punishment. Clay scored with a big corner splash, then the Fall of Humanity cross-body splash for the pin and the win. Matt Striker said Clay is putting the Raw and Smackdown locker rooms on notice and he's on his way. After a replay, Korpela rhetorically asked how long until Clay's in the World Title picture. Striker asked if anyone can stop him.

WINNER: Clay at 1:05. Another effective squash for Clay.

3 -- JTG vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

As Gabriel and JTG went back-and-forth early on, Korpela played Clue on why John Laurinaitis gave Triple H bad information on Kevin Nash earlier this week on Raw. Gabriel wanted a high-flying maneuver, but JTG crotched him and followed with a unique swinging neckbreaker for a two count. Gabriel then back-flipped over JTG and landed a kick strike for a two count. Gabriel tried a springboard backflip, but JTG moved and landed another neckbreaker-like maneuver for a two count. JTG pulling out all sorts of new moves this week.

Another counter by Gabriel left JTG KO'ed in the corner. Or so it seemed. Gabriel went up top for the 450 Splash, but JTG ran to the top turnbuckle and crotched him. Gabriel brushed it off and landed a sunset flip powerbomb before climbing back up top. Gabriel flashed a smile, waited for the crowd to come life, and delivered the 450 splash clear across the ring for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Gabriel at 6:13. Interesting match. Just interesting. JTG added a few moves to his repertoire and Gabriel continues to be about the same level trying to build momentum behind his singles run.

4 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Back to the Raw announcers, Stanford and Mathews, to call this Smackdown vs. Raw match taped Monday. The announcers re-visited last week's commentary on McIntyre needing to show something before he lost to Zack Ryder. Stanford stressed Bryan's MMA training as he cleared Mac to the outside. Mac used the breather to take control of the match, but Bryan cut him off back in the ring. Mac then lawn-darted Bryan into the second turnbuckle to take control leading to a break in the action.

McIntyre continued to dominate back from break as Stanford noted Bryan is not shaving his beard until WrestleMania when he cashes in his MITB briefcase. Bryan then ducked a clothesline and ran over Mac to slow him down. Both men sold on the mat before Bryan followed with a kick strike for a two count. Multiple kick strikes gave Bryan momentum before Mac ran him over with a pop-up clothesline for a two count. Mac couldn't follow up and found himself flying over the top rope to the floor, leading to Bryan nailing a suicide dive into the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Bryan tried a top rope move, but Mac ran up the turnbuckles, nearly slipped, and executed a modified butterfly suplex for a two count. Drew tried a sidewalk slam, but Bryan countered into a guillotine choke. McIntyre tried to fight the hold, but was forced to tap out, giving Bryan a decisive win over the larger McIntyre. Bearded Bryan celebrated the win with an intense stare into the crowd before they replayed the finish. Back to Bryan, who continued to soak in the win while McIntyre sold frustration ringside.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 10:48. Another good "TV" match for Bryan, who continues to be one of the most valuable wrestlers on the roster being able to work with any opponent. A series between Bryan and McIntyre, despite being on separate brands, would be beneficial for McIntyre to build some confidence in the ring since WWE isn't doing anything with him. Nice conclusion to the show. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2011, 07:04 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 8-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_52630.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- VELVET SKY & JACKIE & ODB vs. ANGELINA LOVE & ROSITA & SARITA

Quick tags early among ODB, Jackie, and Sky against Rosita. Sky took Love down with a sideslam for a two count at 2:00. The other four brawled at ringside. Love gave Sky a backbreaker mid-ring, then invited Jackie and ODB to attack Sky. Instead, ODB and Jackie showed loyalty to Sky by double-suplexing Love and then putting Sky on top for the win. Tenay wondered what Bischoff thought of this since they were trying to improves him to earn TNA contracts.

WINNERS: Jackie & ODB & Sky in 3:00.

2 -- JESSE SORRENSEN vs. KID KASH

Tenay noted Kash is ranked no. 3, Sorrensen no. 2, based on the wholly ridiculous methodology in last week's X Division Gauntlet match. Sorrensen winked at the camera on his way to the ring while wearing his high school football letter jacket. I assume those facts cement Kash as the obvious babyface in this match-up, right? Kash won by pulling on Sorrensen's trunks.

-Christy Hemme interviewed Kash at ringside. He said he taught the kid in the ring a lesson. He called him a prick and said just like his son, he'll put him over his knee and spank his ***. Sorrensen walked back to Kash and told him if he keeps running his mouth, he'll show him if he's a little boy inside the ring. Security came out. Sorrensen immediately tried to get to Kash as soon as security stepped between them.

3 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO - Bound for Glory Series Match

Matt Morgan joined Tenay and Taz on commentary. Tenay said they're one week away from determining the final four in the BFG Series. Morgan said whoever comes out of this tournament the winner will be as battle tested as a wrestler can be. RVD got in a series of his signature moves, then applied an abdominal stretch at 3:00. Pope hip-tossed RVD off of him and then DDT'd RVD for a two count. RVD came back with a jump reverse sidekick. RVD lifted Pope into a surfboard. He bridged Pope's shoulders back onto the mat for a two count, drawing a "wow" out of Morgan. Pope verbally submitted seconds later.

WINNER: RVD in 4:00 via submission.

4 -- A.J. STYLES & BEER MONEY vs. SCOTT STEINER & GUNNER & BULLY RAY

After a couple minutes inside the ring, Steiner and Gunner brawled with Beer Money backstage. Styles and Ray continued to battle inside the ring. When Gunner returned, Styles turned to him. Steiner then returned and Styles blasted him. Ray recovered and gave Styles a Bubba Bomb for the win.

WINNERS: Ray & Steiner & Gunner in 6:00.

-They cut to the parking garage where Mr. Anderson showed up in a Hummer. Anderson ran to the ring. Gunner attacked him. Anderson knocked Gunner down and then shoved Steiner off the ring apron and through a table at ringside. Anderson wrapped his fist in a chain. Ray grabbed a chair at ringside and yelled at Anderson. Anderson hit Gunner with his chain-wrapped fist. Ray called him crazy as Anderson repeatedly punched Gunner. Gunner bled from the forehead. Anderson held KO'd Gunner and KO'd Steiner in his hands and stared down Ray, who retreated.

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. CRIMSON

At 2:00 they cut to a break after mostly tests of strength spots, with Angle ending up on offense. [c] Angle remained in control after the break. He settled into a side headlock. Crimson broke free and then collided with Angle. The ref nearly counted both men down. Crimson hit a suplex on Angle for a near fall. Then he hit a spear for a near fall. Angle came back with a kick to Crimson's knee and then a quick anklelock. Crimson broke free with a kick. Angle went fo ran Angleslam, but Crimson countered with a Sky High finisher for a very near fall. Samoa JOe then attacked Crimson. The ref called for the bell.

WINNER: No contest in 10:00.

-With Angle's blessing - after a brief tense staredown between them - Joe went for more against Crimson. When he lifted Crimson, Crimson broke free and punched Joe. Joe retreated.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 29 2011, 07:07 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_52642.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. DANIEL BRYAN

They aired a Bryan hype video during his entrance. Cole said he didn’t believe that Bryan will end up cashing in the MITB at Wrestlemania. Leg-whip by Bryan then a dropkick in the corner on his foe. First cover of the match got two at :52. Bryan did his dive through the ropes onto Christian outside the ring and then locked in a surfboard. Bryan actually bridged it into a pinning predicament. Kicks by Bryan, but Christian’s flip kick in the corner turned the tables. Bryan was back-dropped to ringside, where they went to break at 2:53 of the match.

Back about 4:00 after they went to break. Bryan broke out of a rest-hold only to get elbowed down by Christian for two. To the top went Bryan and he came off with a missile dropkick. Both men were down at 8:12. Cover by Bryan for two. Flying clothesline by Bryan, followed up by some kicks to the chest of Christian. Bryan blocked a second flip kick attempt and kicked Christian right in the back of the neck. Cole noted Bryan has to develop some charisma. No connection was made between having charisma and being good in the ring/winning titles. If they even attempted to explain, I’d let it pass. Back-and-forth they went and Christian kicked out after a kick to the head. Bryan tried a hurricanrana off the top, but Christian hooked the top rope and landed a Tornado DDT for a near-fall. Killswitch was countered into the LeBell Lock, but Christian got his foot on the bottom rope. Bryan missed a running corner dropkick, then Christian connected on the Killswitch.

WINNER: Christian, at 12:03. Good win for Christian heading into his title match next week after not appearing on the show last week. Bryan lost, but like his match with Del Rio last week, he put up a fight and looked good.

2 – SIN CARA vs. HEATH SLATER

Ah, Cara grabbed the ropes during his jumping entrance! What a fraud! Slater is now the one-man Southern rock band and has theme music to reflect that persona. Also, Sin Cara vs. Alberto Del Rio is slated for Tuesday. Slater attacked Cara just as the bell rang and now Sin Cara’s light show during his match features moving lights. Headscissors take-down by Cara, then he landed a dive in the ring. Big flying headbutt for two. Cara dropkicked Slater off the apron, then landed a cross-body off the top rope. Diving flip on Slater, then a springboard moonsault for three.

WINNER: Cara, at 1:43. Not sure where all the botches came into play, but if the match was edited, I couldn't tell.

3 – RANDY ORTON vs. TED DIBIASE

Cody Rhodes walked out with DiBiase, as did Cody’s baggers. Rhodes said he performs miracles, resurrecting the IC Championship and the career of Ted DiBiase. Things started slowly, with DiBiase taking Orton down with a headlock, then a shoulder tackle. Cole and Booker nicely put over the IC Title. Leap-frog by Orton, then a dropkick. Both men were back to their feet, circling each other, and going back to square one. Clothesline by Orton. Snap-mare by DiBiase, then a boot to the face for two. Take-down by Orton, then a catapult into the corner. Big clothesline by the Viper. Thesz Press followed. Rhodes got on the apron to distract, and took a right hand from Orton. Randy went to ringside and to RKO Rhodes, but DiBiase broke it up with a baseball slide. They went to break as the commentary team was apparently shocked into silence by that move.

Orton got to his feet after being in a rear chinlock, but DiBiase dropkicked Orton down. Call me crazy, but I think a DiBiase win could work here, though I’m loathe to advocate a champion losing in a non-title match yet again. To the top rope, where Orton suplexed DiBiase to the mat. Cover got two at 9:46. Scoop slam by Orton and he began to get in the zone. DiBiase avoided the back-breaker and went for a roll-up for two. Sit-out spine-buster for two as well. Dream Street applied, but Orton countered. He set DiBiase up for the rope-assisted DDT, and it found the mark. RKO was dodged, as was another Dream Street. Slingshot clothesline missed wildly and DiBiase fell victim to the RKO for the pinfall.

WINNER: Orton, at 12:12. DiBiase sure looked good here, and I wonder if this was an opportunity given to him by WWE management to see what he can do and to see if DiBiase could prove something to them.

An upset Rhodes was left in the ring with a fallen DiBiase. Rhodes offered his hand to DiBiase, who grabbed it. Rhodes appeared to give DiBiase some words of encouragement, but then gave DiBiase Cross Rhodes. Rhodes took a bag and put it over DiBiase’s head. Maybe Cody should lower his expectations next time.

4 – TAMINA vs. KELLY KELLY

Tamina was already in the ring. Natayla did an inset interview during Kelly’s entrance, calling her a “Barbie doll” and said she doesn’t play with dolls. Tamina tossed Kelly down, but Kelly then did a modified Thesz Press (I’m being generous tonight). Headscissors and Tamina struggled to fall through the ropes from it. Kelly used her feet to choke Tamina, then Tamina brought Kelly throat-down over the top rope. Bodyslam by Tamina, but Kelly broke out of an attempted submission move before it could be fully applied Face-buster by Kelly, then she hit her handspring back-elbow. Stinkface by Kelly, but she then jumped off the middle rope and into Tamina’s arms. Tamina couldn’t capitalize, as Kelly broke free and hit her K2 legdrop for the win.

WINNER: Kelly, at 2:47. She’s really building up some credibility with all these wins the past month or two.

5 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Khali and Mahal’s entrance didn’t make TV. Cole explained what happened in the Battle Royal last week that got Mahal upset at Khali. Jackson ran at Khali and Khali nailed him with a shot to the head. Hard slap to the chest of Zeke in the corner. Clothesline by Khali, followed by a nerve hold. Jackson elbowed out of it and clotheslined Khali into the corner. Big splash was next, but Khali connected on a big boot. He signaled for the Khali Vice grip and he wrapped his giant hands around Zeke’s head. Jackson got separation from Khali’s hands as the fans chanted “Oilers suck.” As the ref admonished Khali, Mahal got on the apron and tried to help Khali, but when Khali went to hit Jackson, he moved and Khali chopped Mahal. Jackson got Khali up for the Torture Rack and Khali tapped.

WINNER: Jackson, via submission, at 2:52. Finisher didn’t look great, since Khali actually looked pretty comfortable on Jackson’s shoulders. Still, I should just accept that a three minute Jackson vs. Khali match didn’t make me want to gouge my eyes out by the end.

6 – MARK HENRY vs. SHEAMUS

Mathews predicted bedlam during this one. We can only hope. Henry whipped Sheamus into the turnbuckle but Sheamus hammered away with forearms and kicks. Quick cover got two. Sheamus appeared ready to utilize the Irish Hammer but Henry gave him a straight boot to the face. Back-breaker for a two-count. Sheamus got whipped chest-first into the corner, then Henry proceeded to stand on Sheamus’ chest. Sheamus tried to fight back but Henry headbutted him down. Bear-hug was applied by the World’s Strongest Man. Sheamus made his comeback but Henry plucked him off the second rope and was ready to press slam him, but Sheamus turned it into a DDT. Impressive. Diving forearm by Sheamus took Henry down after several attempts. He laid in more forearms across Henry’s massive chest. Three knee-lifts from the apron continued the onslaught. Flying shoulder tackle off the top for two. Out of desperation, Henry pulled Sheamus out of the ring, then threw him into the barricade. No callback to Summerslam by the announcers? Henry began to clear off the announce table, but Sheamus escaped a slam attempt and Brogue Kicked Henry right over the table. He tossed a chair onto him for good measure (no DQ, by the way), then re-entered the ring. He made it back for the count-out win.

WINNER: Sheamus, via count-out, at 7:34.

Henry got up and peered angrily toward the ring. He flipped the announce table and walked around the ring. He tried to get back into the ring, but Sheamus met him on the apron. Henry created separation, but couldn’t get in the ring, as Sheamus knocked him to ringside. Sheamus jumped off the apron, only to be caught in Henry’s arms. Henry then drove Sheamus back-first into the apron. Henry went to put Sheamus into the stairs, but Sheamus reversed and Henry went in. Sheamus tried to throw the stairs at Henry but Mark moved and Henry clotheslined Sheamus instead. Henry picked Sheamus up and gave him the World’s Strongest Slam into the steel steps. They showed a replay of the finish of the match, and some of the aftermath. Henry yelled at Sheamus, “you can’t beat me” as they went off the air. I think that’s how every Smackdown should end – Henry shouting insults to a fallen opponent.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 30 2011, 01:49 pm
WWE RAW Results: 8-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_52726.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

The announcers focused heavily on past managers (Heenan, Hart, Albano, etc.) to show that successful WWE managers have included several wrestlers in their stable. Lawler said Ziggler's issue is he believes he should be Vickie's only client. Orton and Ziggler went back and forth before Orton tackled Ziggler with his hips for a Thesz Press that sent Ziggler rolling to the apron. Orton wanted an elevated DDT, but Vickie hopped on the ring apron to distract Orton. Ziggler then dumped Orton over the top rope to the outside and scored with a Zig-Zag on the floor. Ziggler took a blow, too, and Vickie wasn't impressed. The announcers focused on Orton being in jeopardy before rolling back into the ring just in time at nine. Ziggler stomped away on Orton and Cole fed to a commercial three minutes in.

Back from break, Ziggler had Orton over the ring steps before smashing him head-first into the steps. Backstage, Jack Swagger was watching intently as Ziggler went for a cover back in the ring. Ziggler then applied a reverse chinlock looking to wear down Orton as the crowd tried to rally behind the World champ. The announcers re-noted tomorrow night's live Smackdown and played up Orton perhaps having his mind on his title defense against Christian tomorrow.

Orton and Ziggler took the fight up-top, where Orton executed a superplex clear across the ring. Orton slowly made the cover, and Ziggler kicked out in time. Vickie pounded the mat in frustration, trying to encourage Ziggler, who then walked into a clothesline before taking a snap powerslam. Orton stalked Ziggler, then executed a belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall. Suddenly, Ziggler came back with a Fameasser for a two count. Back to a shot of Vickie screaming as Cole noted this is about money for Ziggler trying to knock off the World champion and earn a future top title shot.

Orton went back on the offensive smashing Ziggler into the turnbuckle with a catapult, followed with a shoulderbreaker slam, and made a cover, but Ziggler kicked out in time. The crowd was hot with an RKO chant, but Orton measured Ziggler for a Punt and Ziggler intercepted with a superkick for a close nearfall. Ziggler tried the Zig-Zag, but Orton avoided and flung Ziggler into the ropes for an elevated DDT. Orton then dropped down to the mat and pounded the mat to set up for the RKO, which popped the crowd. However, Ziggler countered with a sleeperhold attempt, only to have Orton toss him off the ropes, throw him into the air, wait for Ziggler to bounce up, and deliver the RKO center-ring. It wasn't completely smooth, but effective as another innovative RKO counter finisher. Orton made the cover for the win heading into Tuesday night on Smackdown.

WINNER: Orton at 12:27. Strong match and good focus on Ziggler hanging with the champion in defeat. Ross's commentary was very strong and Cole was actually normal to create a strong one-two dynamic for the call of a serious match. (**1/2)

2 -- THE MIZ vs. C.M. PUNK

Cole sided with Miz that Hunter is too wrapped up in the Punk-Nash issue, which has caused Miz and other aspects of the program to be neglected. Ross said Miz can get noticed again by winning this match. Cole then asked if Nash-Punk is the right booking by Hunter. Lawler said he doesn't think it will end the controversy, though, because they still don't know who's behind the text messages and phone calls. "How is that match going to resolve anything?" he asked. Lawler, after killing the hype for the match, covered by saying he still wants to really see that match.

Cole reset the show at the top of the hour and noted Hunter has introduced a "new concept" with Raw and Smackdown stars on the same show for the foreseeable future. As for the match, Miz scored a close nearfall with a spike DDT before going to a reverse chinlock to wear down Punk. The announcers went back to the Conspiracy Theory on whether Hunter is involved in the whole Kevin Nash re-hiring scheme. Lawler said this all started when Hunter came back on the scene. (It's inevitable they're going to re-visit the Clique's Hall of Fame ceremony huddle four months ago.) Lawler asked what role Stephanie is playing. Cole asked what role "Johnny" Laurinaitis is playing. Miz maintained control of the match and flung Punk over the top rope to the floor. Cole claimed Miz was dominating the match, which drew Lawler's ire, and they cut to break at 7:45.

Back live, Cole welcomed the audience back to a match trending on Twitter right now. Punk came back on Miz with a rolling belly-to-back side suplex that resulted in a two count. Punk then followed with a springboard clothesline. He teased the G2S, only to have Miz counter with a Skullcrushing tease, but Punk ended the exchange with a backbreaker for a nearfall. The match moved up top as Ross questioned Punk's strategy and Cole continued to mock Ross's accent. Punk eventually set up for and delivered a Macho Man flying elbow. Punk wanted the G2S, but R-Truth came down to the ring to cause a DQ.

WINNER: Punk via DQ at 13:56. A bit of a "comedown" match for the crowd before they came to life near the end. The match should have meant more with proper hype. (*3/4)

3 -- SIN CARA vs. JACK SWAGGER

The mood lighting kicked in about five seconds into the match. Early miscommunication between Sin Cara and Swagger before Swagger rolled to the outside. Sin Cara became frustrated when Swagger was out of position for a spot on the outside. He eventually executed a springboard moonsault. Back in the ring, Swagger cut off Sin Cara as Vickie slowly made her way to ringside for a closer look. About a minute later, Ziggler came to ringside to argue with Vickie. Ziggler then hopped on the ring apron to taunt Swagger and Sin Cara took advantage with a springboard DDT. Sin Cara then slowly rolled to the ring apron and executed a springboard dive, then a springboard moonsault. Sin Cara with the pin and the win. Post-match: Ziggler told Vickie, "See?" implying Swagger isn't worth her time. Ziggler stomped off, demanding Vickie leave with him. Vickie was slow to leave, continuing to look into the ring as Swagger recovered.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 2:56. The crowd can't tell the difference between real and fake Sin Cara, which is what WWE is hoping for. Meanwhile, the Vickie-Dolph-Jack issue continues to simmer another week.

4 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA -- WWE Tag Title match

Lawler continued to "evaluate the performance" of the challengers as Mike took it to Bourne early on. Lawler said Otunga is married to Jennifer Hudson, and if not, the only thing he would be saying into the mic is "Do you want fries with that?" Lawler continued to heel on the challengers, saying they put him to sleep. Lawler said he would take them under his wing and give them constructive criticism. Kingston eventually hot-tagged and cleaned house. Kingston scored with a high, turnaround cross-body splash from the top rope before the action broke down. Kingston then tossed Bourne over the top rope onto Otunga. Back in the ring, Kingston dropped Mike with Trouble in Paradise and it was over. Air Boom retains.

WINNERS: Air Boom at 2:25. Now, everyone gets to move along. Air Boom gets another opponent at Night of Champions and Otunga will apparently be feuding with Lawler.

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella)

Kelly putting her 15 match TV/PPV winning streak on the line and Brie putting her 9 match losing streak on the line here. Before the match started, Cole noted Kelly will be defending the Divas Title at Night of Champions. As Brie dominated early on, they cut to a shot of Beth and Natalya watching intently on a backstage monitor. For the finish, Eve was KO'ed ringside during a scrap, drawing Kelly and the ref's attention. The Bellas pulled the Switcheroo in the background, then, back in the ring, Nikki dropped Kelly with a facebuster for the pin and the win. The Streaks are over.

WINNER: Brie (actually Nikki) at 2:10. Basic booking Week 3 of Week 5 building to Night of Champions for Kelly's eventual title defense.

6 -- JOHN CENA & SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY & CHRISTIAN

The heels focused on an injured Sheamus early in the match as Cena tried to encourage Sheamus to make a tag. Christian targeted the ribs to continue wearing down Sheamus before Henry tagged back into the match. Henry continued to wear down Sheamus while getting into it with the referee. The crowd was quiet before Sheamus came back on Christian with the Irish Curse backbreaker. The crowd came to life for a Cena hot tag tease and the tag was made. Cena cleaned house before setting up Christian for the Five Knuckle Shuffle and connecting. Cena wanted the AA, but Christian slipped out. Cena then hit a corner splash before delivering a sandbag toss. Christian tried to come back with a turnaround splash, but Cena caught him in mid-air. Christian avoided the AA, but couldn't avoid the STF. Henry broke it up, though. Henry then fell to the outside and Sheamus took him out with a running splash from the ring apron. Back in the ring, Christian speared Cena, but Cena kicked out. Cena avoided the Killswitch, then Christian ate the Brogue Kick, and Cena delivered the AA on Christian for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Cena & Sheamus at 6:43. Basic main event. But, why would anyone want to see Christian challenge for the World Title tomorrow night? The bigger hook came next...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 02 2011, 12:44 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 8-30-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_52778.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN CENA vs. WADE BARRETT

Immediately back from break, Cena charged Barrett after the bell sounded. Mathews hyped this as one of two main events tonight. Cole noted Del Rio did not show up tonight, so they're focusing on Cena-Barrett tonight. Cena ran over Barrett with a clothesline, then a corner splash before delivering a sandbag slam. Cena followed with a right hand strike, but walked into a Sidewalk Slam from Barrett for a two count. Cena came right back with a sit-out slam and the comeback routine ensued. After a Shuffle, Cena set up for the Attitude Adjustment, flashed a big smile, and easily connected with little resistance from Barrett. Cena with the pin and the win. Afterward, Cena gave his armband to military personnel ringside before posing in the ring again. Cena left the ring, continuing to be in a jovial mood.

WINNER: Cena at 3:16. This felt like a flashback to the TLC PPV in December when Cena buried Barrett under a pile of chairs. This was all about enhancing Cena ahead of Night of Champions, which is fine, but why put Barrett in this position? Barrett's nine-month recovery process from TLC just took a hit.

2 -- SIN CARA vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Mood lighting in effect here. Bryan quickly cleared Cara to the outside and landed a flying suicide elbow that sent Cara into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Bryan delivered kick strikes as Cole intentionally ignorantly knocked Bryan's submission arsenal. Bryan then slapped on a surfboard stretch that Cara escaped before dumping Bryan to the outside. Cara tried a flying move to the outside, but Bryan avoided. Cara came back with an ugly-looking (compared to the real Sin Cara) springboard splash.

Back in the ring, Sin Cara landed a chop to the chest before the two men knocked each other down with a mid-air collision. Cara was the first man up and delivered a series of kicks to the leg. Bryan fired back with kick strikes of his own before taking an inverted Torture Rack slam. Sin Cara then followed up with his combination springboard dive and moonsault for the pin and the win. Cole declared Bryan has plummeted in Booker's Fave Five rankings.

Post-match: Cara extended his hand to Bryan for a handshake. Suddenly, Sin Cara turned around to kick Bryan in the face. Ref Armstrong held him back as Cole called it awesome. Cara then slowly left the ring.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 5:01. Interesting post-match development to apparently give Bryan and Cara a legitimate program on Smackdown. It's a risky decision turning Cara heel since the character is actually selling merchandise and building momentum, but we'll see how it plays out.

3 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & ALICIA FOX vs. BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA

Back from break, Aksana was in the ring to introduce a Divas tag match. First out were Beth Phoenix and Natalya focused on the business at hand. Divas champion Kelly Kelly was out next, joined by Alicia Fox, who has gone back and forth between heel and face more times than Mr. Anderson lately. The heels isolated Kelly early on. Alicia then tagged in and cleaned house before Beth cut her off and delivered the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNERS: Beth & Natalya at 2:01. Decisive win for the Divas of Doom to keep them strong leading to Night of Champions.

The next segment of the show was the match signing between Triple H and C.M. Punk. Nice verbal confrontation followed by Nash jumping in at the end and flooring both guys.

4 -- SHEAMUS vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Jinder Mahal)

The announcers talked as if last night's main event never happened when Sheamus worked through the ribs injury to pick up a win with Cena. Khali targeted Sheamus's chest and ribs early on before applying a vice grip. Sheamus came back with a kick to the knees before pounding on Khali's chest with ten punches in the ropes. Sheamus followed with a running knee before smiling to the crowd. He went up top and delivered a flying shoulder tackle that knocked down Khali. Sheamus wanted the Brogue Kick, but Mahal slipped into the ring to attack Sheamus from behind, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Khali tossed Sheamus over the top rope, per Mahal's instructions. Khali then tried to smash Sheamus into the ringpost, but Sheamus moved and Khali ate the post. Mahal picked up where Khali failed and landed blows before throwing Sheamus back into the ring. Mahal took a sledge to the chest, though, before Sheamus delivered the Celtic Cross clear across the ring. Sheamus stood tall as the heels recovered ringside.

WINNER: Sheamus via DQ at 2:49. Nice showcase for Sheamus to give a Smackdown star some shine on a Raw-heavy episode thus far.

5 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. CHRISTIAN -- World Title match -- steel cage match

Christian tried to bolt for the door to exit quickly, but Orton cut him off and nailed a textbook dropkick that KO'ed Christian for a two count. They suddenly cut to break 55 seconds in.

Back from break, Christian was in control, but Orton cut him off with clothesline. Mathews said it was pretty even during the break. Orton teased the RKO, but Christian avoided, only to take a back body drop. Orton smiled and tried to walk out of the cage, but Christian grabbed his foot to keep him in the ring. Christian then tossed Christian into a cage wall to cut off the champ. Christian tried climbing over a wall, but Orton pulled him down and scored a two count with a quick roll-up. Christian came back with sustained offense and did the belt-around-the-waist motion while Cole hyped Christian as "one of the greats of all-time." So odd hearing Cole hype Christian.

As Christian teased an escape, Orton came back on Christian with stomps and kicks before Christian cut him off again. Christian then tried to climb over a wall, but Orton pulled him down to the top turnbuckle. Orton smiled, then paid homage to Papa Orton with a superplex clear across the ring. Mathews then sent it to another break with both men on the mat selling.

Five minutes before the top of the hour, they returned with Christian about to escape the cage through the door, but Orton dragged him back into the cage. Orton then sent Christian flying head-first into a cage wall. Nice, safe, dangerous-looking spot. Orton followed with a snap powerslam for a nearfall. Counters and exchanges ensued, like so many of their other matches. Christian then tried to escape over the cage, but Orton pulled him down. Christian fought him off, though, and landed a high-impact frog splash for a two count only.

Christian tried to crawl out of the door, but paused too long, giving Orton an opening to drag Christian back into the cage. Christian fought off Orton, then tried a spear, but Orton blocked. Christian blocked the RKO, then hit a spear for another nearfall. What an exchange. Booker said they're doing it like it's supposed to be done. Christian was the first man to his feet, then he slowly backed away to an opposite corner. He went for Orton's Punt, but Orton moved. Christian teased a sunset flip that Orton tried to counter with an RKO, but Christian pump-faked him and tried to climb out, only to have Orton grab him and deliver a walking slam.

They reset center ring a minute before the top of the hour with Orton winning the exchange to set up the spike DDT. Orton then wanted the RKO, but Christian emphatically blocked. Christian went to the cage wall and tried to climb over. He got to the other side of the cage, but Orton grabbed him to stop Christian from climbing out. The two men sat on top of the cage trading blows before pausing to sell exhaustion.

The two men fought back inside the cage while standing on top of the turnbuckle. Christian teased a top-rope Unprettier, but Orton blocked and bashed Christian's head into the cage wall multiple times. Orton suddenly grappled Christian for an RKO, paused, and delivered a Super RKO from the top turnbuckle. Orton was slow to make a cover, but made the cover and it was good for the win. Orton and Christian paused for a moment to share words on the moment as the crowd cheered for Orton.

WINNER: Orton at 18:35 to retain the World Title. Another excellent encounter in this series. The two mid-match commercial breaks took this down a notch, but the final ten minutes of uninterrupted action was amazing storytelling. (***3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 02 2011, 12:45 am
WWE NXT: 8-30-11

The show this week was a video package focusing on the 'graduates' of NXT: PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_52779.shtml)

Immediately after the conclusion of the live Super Smackdown on Syfy, this week's WWE NXT episode opened with a video package focusing on the Graduates from NXT. Matt Striker was in the WWE Studio to set the stage for tonight's highlight show.

-- Striker introduced Wade Barrett as the first "graduate" they focused on.
-- A music video-style video package on Brodus Clay brought them back from break for Striker to hype Clay.
-- Striker recapped Season 3 of NXT focusing on the Divas. It was all about chaos, including a wedding between Aksana and Goldust. Striker then introduced a video on A.J., who is now part of the Smackdown roster.
-- Back from break, they focused on Justin Gabriel returning to South Africa on the recent South African tour. In the studio, Matt Striker shared a story about his sister being into Gabriel. Striker fed to match action from Gabriel vs. Kidd on Smackdown two weeks ago.
-- Next, Striker plugged Alex Riley breaking loose of Miz. Speaking of which, Daniel Bryan had to break free of Miz. Cue up video from Season 1 of NXT. Next, Bryan became Mr. Money in the Bank, something Miz knows about. They went to full-length match footage from Smackdown's MITB ladder match at the MITB PPV in July. [Break] NXT returned from break for the finish of Smackdown's MITB ladder match. This took care of about 15-20 minutes of NXT. Back in the studio, Striker hyped Bryan's victory and noted Bryan plans to cash in at Money in the Bank.
-- Back in the studio, Striker plugged Triple H's new movie and said Hunter's character is similar to the Rookies of Season 5 seeking redemption. Striker said each Rookie has stepped up his game on the current season. Cue up a video package focusing on the success and failure of the NXT5 Rookies. Lots of footage of the now-departed Pros and Rookies from earlier in the five-month-long season. The video went through the eliminations thus far before focusing on the Final Three of O'Neil, Bateman, and Young. And that's how the show closed.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 03 2011, 01:14 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_52878.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. HEATH SLATER

Korpela inexplicably described Jackson as one of the hottest Superstars in WWE as of late despite recently dropping the IC Title to Cody Rhodes and losing the re-match. Korpela backed his argument by drawing attention to Jackson putting Great Khali in the Torture Rack last week on Smackdown. Slater tried to find an opening for some offense early on, but Jackson cut him off and took his time taking Slater apart. Slater missed with a corner attack, then stumbled right into the Torture Rack. Jackson locked in Luger's finishing hold and Slater was forced to tap out. Korpela said Jackson is back on-track for the IC Title.

WINNER: Jackson via submission at 3:08. Fine showcase for Jackson.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. BRANDON JAMES

Nice piece of work from Korpela noting Clay's last three opponents have not been released from the hospital yet. Korpela tried to congratulate Clay on bringing a baby boy into the world last week, but Striker cut him off and said he's not human. Clay had an easy pin, but opted to keep the match going. He then finished off Brandon with his giant shoulder tackle and it was good for the win. And

WINNER: Clay at 0:57. Clay continues to improve on his squash match times, this time finishing under one minute.

3 -- ZACK RYDER vs. TYSON KIDD

Striker used the "belt" terminology to describe Ryder's title as opposed to an official "championship" or "title." Korpela with an early New Kids On The Block reference after saying Ryder is a big fan of boy-bands. Kidd and Ryder felt each other out before Ryder found himself on the ground. Kidd smashed Ryder with a double-foot kick through the ropes before pounding him back into the ring. Ryder tried to come back with the Rough Ryder, but Kidd cut him off. Moments later, Ryder tried it again and connected this time. The crowd applauded as Ryder scored the pin and the win. Striker ate crow and said maybe Ryder belongs in WWE.

WINNER: Ryder at 4:43. Basic booking with Kidd having most of the offense before Ryder scored the win.

4 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. R-TRUTH

The bell sounded and the two men stood their ground in the ring before circling around and locking up. Even exchange to start before Truth snapped on Morrison with right hand blows and taunted the crowd. Morrison fired back with a clothesline that sent Truth to the floor. Morrison then parkour'ed Truth with a flying chuck kick off the ring steps. Morrison made an immediate cover back in the ring, but Truth kicked out. They cut to break with the action ongoing in the ring.

Back from break, Truth was working on Morrison before Morrison suddenly got a burst of energy. Truth absorbed repeated shots, then cut off Morrison and went back to a reverse chinlock. The crowd tried to rally behind Morrison as the announcers speculated on what it will take to end this feud and rivalry. Moments later, Truth got too wound up talking to himself and walked right into an enziguiri that put both men on the mat. Morrison then made his comeback and scored a series of close nearfalls.

Morrison teased Starship Pain, but Truth moved, then hit his flip-over jawbreaker for a nearfall. Truth was sure it was a conspiracy and told Charles Robinson how he felt about it. The action moved up top at 11:00 and Morrison knocked Truth to the mat. Morrison balanced himself on the top turnbuckle, then went for a unique SSP, but Truth blocked with his knees. Truth followed with his "Little Jimmy" paydirt finisher and it was good for the win. The crowd was not pleased as Truth went back to taunting them. After a replay of the back-and-forth conclusion, they cut back to Crazy Truth for a final shot to close the show.

WINNER: Truth at 11:32. Nice match continuing to build on their series of matches. Truth picking up the win was expected with him being featured more prominently on TV, whereas WWE is hot/cold on Morrison. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 03 2011, 01:16 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 9-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Evans' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_52912.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- GUNNER vs. ROB VAN DAM -- BFG Series match

The wrestlers made their entrances and Matt Morgan is on commentary, which I really like for these matches. They’ve kept him incorporated without him being in the ring. Samoa Joe came out on the ramp right in the beginning of the match and Morgan got up to stop him while the match was going on. Morgan tried to stop Joe from going to the ring, but got a boot to the groin by Joe. Joe remained lurking around the ringside area. Gunner went for a suplex on the ropes that was reversed awkwardly by Van Dam. RVD then went on a flurry of offense including kicks and slams. RVD hit Rolling Thunder for a two count. Gunner came back with a clothesline.

And here comes Jerry Lynn. How many outsiders can they include in one match? RVD left the ring and told Lynn to leave the ringside area. RVD returned to the ring. Second awkward move of the match – RVD coming off the top rope with a single leg kick. Lynn came back down and pushed RVD off the top rope to allow Gunner to make the cover. Lynn had a huge grin on his face after the match.

WINNER: Gunner via pinfall.

EVANS'S KEY POINTS: RVD and Jerry Lynn could be a good wrestling feud, although they need a better story than: “I was trying to help you by getting you DQ’d, and you didn’t appreciate it!” Good for Gunner. Here’s hoping he shows something. I wish RVD and Gunner could have gone for a solid 7-8 minutes.

2 -- BRIAN KENDRICK & JESSE SORENSEN vs. AUSTIN ARIES & KID KASH

On paper, this match could be awesome. Granted, I haven’t seen much from Sorensen. Kash and Kendrick had a nice exchange to start things off. Aries complained that Kendrick was grabbing Kash’s hair...hilarious. Sorensen was tagged in and was pummeled by Kash before Kash tagged out to Aries. (On side note, Aries vs. Angle would be amazing.) Sorensen avoided a double team and crawled over to Kendrick for a tag. Kendrick came in to little reaction. He hit a bunch of leg lariats on Aries and Kash before Aries regained control. All four got in the ring and they hit a sick-looking Tower of Doom from the top rope that made it seem like Aries was dead. Moments later, Aries hit a nasty flying tackle onto Sorensen. Kendrick then dove onto Kendrick and the two brawled to the stage. Kash hit Sorensen with a top rope clothesline. He looked to be in control, but Sorensen snuck a pin in and got the duke. Kash freaked out.

WINNERS: Sorensen & Kendrick when Sorensen pinned Kash.

EVANS'S KEY POINTS: So much talent here. These guys could all be big players in TNA. The match did a lot to advance X Division feuds, especially Kash vs. Sorensen. Here’s hoping they are giving this program some effort. I like that Kendrick and Aries are being booked as equals, and Sorensen is being booked as lucky. However, like usual, it was too much in one segment to digest.

3 -- Knockouts champion WINTER vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match

I'll admit it, I like Winter's theme. Mickie went right at Winter leading to some good wrestling early on with these two. Winter started out technical, and then when that didn’t work, she started biting. It shows a lot about her character. Angelina blatantly tried to give Winter the title to use as a weapon, so Hebner ejected her. Winter went back to work on Mickie with knees to the back. Mickie took control back with a single leg crab. Winter broke the hold, then Mickie went for a DDT, but Winter escaped. Mickie went for it again and scored a DDT, but Winter got a foot on the rope for a break on a pin attempt. Winter hit a sweet-looking enziguiri, but Mickie kicked out. (Announcers need to stop saying, “And that’s it. This match is over!” when it never is.) Moments later, Mickie got a side kick on Winter, scoring the win and the title.

WINNER: Mickie to capture the Knockouts Title.

EVANS'S KEY POINTS: Well, that was a short title reign. What ever happened to non-title matches? Two very talented performers with a very weak storyline.

4 -- A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS -- Final Showdown

Some video packages highlighting all of the battles the two have had throughout the years in TNA would have been great to highlight the importance of this so-called Last Match Ever. Coming in, I was hoping they would get a good 15-20 minutes. Styles went for a quick cover and the two had a stand off. Daniels looked to be getting frustrated early and Tenay pointed it out. Daniels went for a cool-looking pin attempt, but Styles quickly rebounded with a nice dropkick. Daniels regained control with a headlock. Styles took Daniels down and hit a knee drop for a close cover. Styles hit an extremely effective-looking suplex for a pin attempt. There was a very cool spot where both men attempted dives on the outside, only to have Styles hit a hurancanrana from the apron on Daniels.

Back in the ring, Styles locked on a submission, but Daniels made it to the ropes. (I like the story they are telling with Daniels not being able to build momentum in this match. If they are setting up for a heel turn, this would be the way to book it.) Daniels hit the STO and then a series of forearms and an enziguiri. Styles was quick to rebound with a springboard clothesline for a two-count.

Styles and Daniels exchanged chops, then Styles hit a Pele kick on Daniels, taking him down to the corner. Styles went for the reverse DDT off the rope, but Daniels anticipated. Daniels went for a moonsault, but Styles anticipated. They exchanged a few reversals as Tenay pointed out that these two know each other so well. Styles went for a top rope move, but slipped and Daniels scored the cover. After the match, Styles went to shake Daniels hand, but Daniels refused and continued his victory celebration before they abruptly cut away.

WINNER: Christopher Daniels via pinfall.

EVANS'S KEY POINTS: It's unfortunate how quickly they fly through stuff on this show. Why not give this another ten or twenty seconds to let Tenay and Taz speculate as to why Daniels reacted the way he did? Maybe have Styles get on the microphone and say something like, “Hey, I gave you the match and you can’t even shake my hand?” Something! TNA needs to stop moving at warp speed. Other than that, I thought this was a great match with both men giving a nice effort and telling a good story. I liked how Daniels got the win on a fluke, but is still celebrating the win as if he defeated Styles outright. Interesting to see where TNA will go with this.

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. STING -- TNA World Title match -- Hulk Hogan ringside enforcer

Sting was able to frustrate Angle enough to make him powder out. Hogan give Angle a pep talk and he returned to the ring, only to be clotheslined again by Sting. Sting took the fight to the outside and tossed Angle in the barricade and steps. Sting went for a Stinger Splash, but Angle countered into a belly-to-belly suplex. That was awesome. Angle applied a rest hold. Sting powered out with a side suplex. Both men were down and the ref started the count, but they made it back up by seven. Sting started a flurry of offense including a boot and a DDT. He made the cover, but Angle kicked out.

Angle went for the trifecta of suplexes and succeeded, then went for a cover, but only got two. Sting hit the Scorpion Death Drop for a great nearfall. Sting went for the Scorpion Deathlock, but Angle reversed it into the Anklelock. Sting pushed off. Sting went for another Death Drop, but Angle reversed it into an Angle Slam. Sting locked on the Deathlock, but Gunner ran down. The ref tried to stop Gunner, so he missed Angle tapping out. Sting also became distracted by Hogan, which allowed Angle to get the Angle Slam on a steel chair for the win. After the match, Immortal came down to beat on Sting, until Mr. Anderson showed up and cleared house.

WINNER: Angle via pinfall to retain the TNA World Title.

EVANS'S KEY POINTS: Sting can now cry sour grapes and say that he got Angle to tap. It looks like Sting is moving into a match with Flair next, which eventually lead to a match with Hogan. Last week, Angle demanded no one interfere in his match, but this week it’s okay? I don’t get it.

OVERALL SHOW KEY POINTS: TNA seems to be in too much of a rush. This was way too much to lump into two hours and yet...not enough. TNA sped through the A.J. Styles vs. Christopher Daniels post-match, sped through Kid Kash and Sorensen's feud, and sped through the Mickie James vs. Winter post-match. It forces viewers to turn their focus off as TNA bounces around from segment from segment, not getting attached to any character. This is solely on TNA, as they are not signifying that anything is overly important. They are reinforcing to viewers that each segment is of equal importance, and that is simply not the case.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 07 2011, 01:32 am
WWE RAW Results: 9-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52971.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and random commentary.

- C.M. Punk came out to chat, heeled on Nash. Nash came out to confront him. Triple H came next. Nash called Punk a cancer that needs to be rid of from the WWE (IRONY!). Nash starts pushing Triple H. Trips knocks down Nash and then fires him. Punk says "Good luck in your future endeavors".

1 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. GREAT KHALI & JINDER MAHAL

Cole and Jim Ross noted it's a pivotal match for Jinder and Khali after Sheamus took them apart on Super Smackdown this past Tuesday. The announcers resumed a discussion on Hunter-Nash as Ross wanted an answer on why Laurinaitis left with Nash. Cole then asked Jerry Lawler for his thoughts on having a match against McGillicutty and Otunga tonight. Lawler re-directed to more Laurinaitis discussion - asking Ross if Hunter or Laurinaitis has more stroke. The heels isolated Bourne throughout the first 2:30 of discussion before Kofi tagged in and landed signature offense on Mahal. Khali then sort of pulled the top rope, causing Kingston to go flying to the floor. A double-team attack on Kofi back-fired, though, and it set up Kofi for a tag to Bourne. The crowd came to life as Bourne set up and delivered Air Bourne on Mahal for the pin and the win. After a replay, they cut back to the tag champs celebrating in the ring. Lawler said these guys have personality and charisma, unlike Otunga & McGillicutty.

WINNERS: Air Boom at 3:15.

2 -- EVE vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Natalya) -- #1 contender match to Divas Title

Back from break, Eve was in the ring for a #1 contender's match. Beth Phoenix then came out flanked by Natalya as Eve's opponent. Natalya also joined the announcers for a five-person booth on this match. Basic start with Beth working over Eve as Kelly and Natalya bickered on commentary. Eve made a comeback, but Beth finished her with the Glam Slam for the pin and the win. Afterward, Kelly tried to check on Eve, but Natalya blasted her from phone. Nattie and Beth stood tall in the ring to conclude the bit.

WINNER: Beth at 2:03 to become #1 contender.

3 -- C.M. PUNK vs. R-TRUTH (w/The Miz)

Back live, Truth was arguing with the crowd as the bell sounded. Punk finally locked up with Truth and tried to wear him down as they hit the top of the hour. Ross and Cole bickered back and forth with Cole doing more of that "evaluating the show within the show" non-sense before Cole reset the show at the top of the hour. As part of the reset, the announcers discussed the Nash-Hunter issue. In the ring, Punk dropped Truth with a dropkick that sent Truth to the floor. Miz consoled Truth, then got out of the way when Punk came flying at Truth with a suicide dive. Miz distracted Punk, though, giving Truth an opening to wear down Punk back in the ring.

Punk found himself on the outside again and Miz took him out with a chopblock while Truth had the ref distracted. Back in the ring, Truth wore down Punk, targeting the injured knee per Miz's handiwork. Cole was all over the place continuing to heel on Hunter and anyone else before Lawler tried to calm him down so the entire audience wouldn't turn the channel to tune out Cole. Meanwhile, the in-ring battle went up top and Punk delivered a superplex to stop Truth's momentum. Punk followed with a leg lariat, then a corner knee smash into a bulldog. Punk followed with a springboard clothesline and called for the end.

Punk wanted the G2S, but Truth slipped out and Punk sold the knee. Truth then hit a face-buster suplex for a two count. Truth tried to follow with an axe kick, but Punk avoided. Miz then grabbed Punk from the outside, drawing a dropkick through the ropes from Punk. The ref had enough of Miz and sent him packing to the back. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Truth tried to sneak up on Punk, but walked into the G2S anyways. Punk made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Punk at 9:45. With the short-sighted, quick set-up for Hunter-Punk, apparently they felt the need to add a double stipulation to give this match some juice when it should have been able to sell itself with proper build-up.

4 -- JERRY LAWLER & ZACK RYDER vs. DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

The heels isolated Ryder early on as Cole tried to get under Ross's skin with repeated jabs. Lawler eventually hot-tagged into the match before the action broke down. Lawler found himself alone in the ring with Otunga and hit the fist drop, but Ryder demanded a tag. Lawler obliged and Ryder dropped Otunga with the Rough Ryder. It was good for the pin and the win. Cole heeled on Ryder, Lawler, and the audience as the winning duo celebrated on the way out of the ring.

WINNERS: Ryder & Lawler at 2:08. Heel Cole is as bad as he's ever been this week.

5 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. HEATH SLATER -- non-title match

Orton quickly went to work on Slater, who came back with brief offense to allow the audience to rally behind Orton. Slater delivered a spinebuster for a two count before applying a reverse chinlock that showed a lot of light. Orton easily escaped, then nailed a clothesline. And another. Then, a snap powerslam. Orton followed with a trademark hanging DDT from the second rope before entering RKO mode. Orton measured Slater and delivered the RKO for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Orton at 2:56. Fine, formula match to showcase Orton's signature offense and give the fans a look at his finishing sequence without interruption.

6 -- JOHN CENA & SHEAMUS & JOHN MORRISON & ALEX RILEY vs. WADE BARRETT & JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER & CHRISTIAN -- elimination eight-man tag match

Back from break, the match was already in progress with Barrett going after Riley. The action broke down momentarily with men coming in and out of the match before Ziggler and Swagger tried to apply a double submission on Morrison. Morrison eventually tapped out to Swagger, sending Morrison to the back at 2:30. Vickie Guerrero then came walking to ringside, drawing a smile from Swagger. Ziggler was annoyed by her presence as they abruptly cut to break.

Back from break right at the top of the hour, the heels were working over Riley in the heel corner. All seven men were still in the match with no eliminations during the break. The crowd got into the match at Cena's urging, and Riley made a comeback on Ziggler. Riley delivered an emphatic spinebuster, but Ziggler cut him off moments later. Ziggler then argued with Swagger, who shook it off and delivered a Vader Bomb on Riley before applying the Anklelock. Riley tapped out at 8:23, giving Swagger another elimination in the match.

Sheamus was in next to battle Swagger. Lawler noted Swagger was going the extra mile to impress Vickie tonight. After Swagger absorbed some blows from Sheamus, Barrett tagged in and battled Sheamus. Barrett tried to wear down Sheamus as Cena tried to fire up the crowd again. Sheamus made his comeback, then delivered signature forearm strikes to Barrett's exposed chest. Sheamus then went up top and connected with a shoulder tackle before clearing heels from the ring apron. Sheamus missed with a Brogue Kick, though, but didn't miss on his second try for a pin and elimination of Barrett at 11:55.

Christian tried to slide in for a quick pin on Sheamus, but Sheamus kicked out in time. Christian then slapped the taste out of Sheamus's mouth, which only angered Sheamus. Christian tried to run away and eventually hopped over the guardail, then ran to the other side of the arena. Both men were counted out in the process at 13:10. It looks like Sheamus and Christian will begin a feud on Smackdown.

So, it was Cena vs. Ziggler and Swagger. Cena did the slow entry into the ring to get the crowd behind his underdog position. Cena then entered the ring and went nuts on Swagger. But, Ziggler dropped him with a textbook dropkick. Swagger tried to take advantage with a cover, but Cena kicked out. Swagger and Ziggler began trading tags to wear down Cena as the crowd entered Dueling Chants mode. Meanwhile, Vickie had a big smile looking at Swagger as Swagger wore down Cena. Cena suddenly fired off a comeback and dropped both heels center-ring. Cena wanted a double Five Knuckle Shuffle and connected.

Cena couldn't put away either man, though, as they reset with Swagger delivered a belly-to-belly suplex. Swagger then tried a running Vader Bomb and connected. Swagger wanted to finish Cena, but Ziggler blind-tagged himself into the match. Ziggler argued with Swagger, then walked into the AA. Cena made the cover to eliminate Ziggler at 17:10. Swagger then immediately slapped on the Anklelock as the crowd rallied behind Cena, who countered into the STF moments later. Swagger tried to fight the hold, but he tapped out, giving Cena the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena at 17:45. Classic Cena finish typical for gauntlet or elimination matches to build up Cena's title quest. Swagger had a fine showing - probably the best he's looked in months - but it was to set up Cena's big escape into the STF after seemingly being in jeopardy. Del Rio had a good night until taking the AA at the end, but that's standard WWE booking. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 10 2011, 04:53 pm
WWE NXT Results: 9-6-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53007.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN & MAXINE vs. TITUS O'NEIL & A.J. (w/Hornswoggle)

Korpela noted Bateman and Maxine have bonded over their common spite for past NXT eliminations. He also noted Titus is fired up after the heels put their hands on his brother, Hornswoggle. Titus quickly took out his frustration on Bateman with repeated strikes before Bateman bailed to the heel corner to tag in Maxine. That forced a tag to A.J., who went after Maxine. After A.J. landed some offense, Maxine cut her off and tried to wear down Hornswoggle's love interest. A.J. eventually found an opening to tag in Titus, which brought in Bateman. Titus landed power offense before the action broke down. Once the Divas cleared out, Titus hit the sky-high bomb on Bateman for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Titus & A.J. at 5:15. The usual NXT match this season with Titus coming out on top, then celebrating with Swoggle. As for Bateman, his story was sixth-most-important in this match behind Titus, A.J., Hornswoggle, Maxine, and the announcers.]

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. TYSON KIDD

Yoshi absorbed early blows from Kidd before attacking him with kick strikes. Yoshi knocked Kidd to the floor and they cut to break.

Back from break, Yoshi was still in control of the match, now in the ring. Yoshi knocked Kidd to the floor again, then measured him for a move on the floor, but Kidd avoided and rammed Yoshi back-first into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Kidd went to work on Yoshi for a few minutes. Yoshi eventually came back with a top-rope chop followed by a Muta-style strike on the mat for a two count.

Yoshi fired himself up and wanted to finish Kidd, but Kidd kicked his legs out from under him to cut off Yoshi's momentum. Moments later, Kidd lost momentum. Yoshi then went up top, but Kidd crotched him. Kidd tried a huracanrana, but Yoshi held onto the top rope to block. Yoshi followed with a top-rope spin kick and it was good for the pin and the win. Afterward, they went to a nice slow-motion replay of Yoshi's finisher. They cut back to Yoshoi for a close-up of his face as he sold the victory with determination.

WINNER: Yoshi at 10:28. A toned-down version of their matches focusing more on Yoshi's character change. Good action, though.

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL vs. DARREN YOUNG

Regal quickly taught Young a few lessons with elbow strikes, then knees in the corner. Regal then measured Young for the old crotch stomp, but acted like Steve Corino putting aside his heel tendencies for a simple elbow drop to the mid-section. Regal then knocked Young to the outside and beat him up some more. Regal dragged Young to the announce table, received Striker's headset, and asked Young if he wanted to apologize. "Never!" Young declared.

Back in the ring, Young did the old routine begging off, but Regal was wise to that old trick and stomped on his hand. Regal then went to work on Young's chest with forearm blows. Young finally found some offense with a basic whip to the turnbuckles that Regal sold like a gunshot to the back. Striker said old age is a concern for Regal as Young went to work on Regal. "This should be you, Striker!" Young shouted toward the announce table. Young then went to work on Regal, who made a comeback before doing the old trick of arguing with the ref while kicking Young in the lower regions as he was seated in the corner. Regal followed with an exploder suplex.

Suddenly, JTG showed up on the ring apron and Striker had enough, so he yanked JTG down off the apron and beat him up. Back in the ring, Regal nailed the Knee Trembler and it was good for the win. Striker grabbed the headset again and said JTG needs to mind his own business. For his final act, Striker unbuttoned his shirt and challenged JTG to come fight him in the ring. They signed off with Striker challenging JTG, Regal amused by JTG's attempted interference, and Young off-camera.

WINNER: Regal at 6:50. Regal is simply a master storyteller. Well done. The problem is the show continues to drift away from focusing on who the next "breakout WWE star is," which means this show will only be prolonged another month, two months, three months, longer?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 10 2011, 04:54 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_53100.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MASON RYAN vs. JTG

Jimmy the Gimmick wanted nothing to do with Ryan early on. JTG continued to stall, which allowed the announcers to talk up Ryan. In classic small heel vs. big babyface fashion, JTG went after the legs to try to cut down Ryan. Ryan shook it off as Stanford noted he looks like a cartoon character or a superhero from a comic book. Ryan then delivered a series of backbreakers into a swinging slam. Ryan called for the end, which was a boot to the gut, a slow set up for a pumphandle slam, and a pumphandle into powerslam for the pin and the win. Cue up a replay of Ryan's dominating win before they showed him celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Ryan at 3:08. Lots of work for Ryan. But, per WWE's mindset, they believe they can plug any big-man into that slot and the audience will eventually accept the person. That's unless WWE cools off on the person first.

2 -- TYLER REKS & CURT HAWKINS vs. TITUS O'NEIL & PERCY WATSON

Watson showed off his vertical leap with a leaping dropkick early on. The heels then cornered Watson and went to work on him while taunting Titus, who seemed lost without Hornswoggle in his corner. Percy broke free from Hawkins and tags were made to each partner. Titus came in hot on Reks before doing an Ultimate Warrior top-rope shake. Titus tried the sky-high bomb, but Hawkins broke it up and the action broke down. With the ref pre-occupied, Hawkins and Reks combined on a double-team powerslam/neckbreaker combo on Titus. It was good for the pin.

WINNERS: Reks & Hawkins at 3:47. Fortunately, no one pays attention to Superstars, as Percy's big "main roster TV debut" should be a bigger deal. Even with the cookie-cutter ex-NFL player look and toned-down gimmick from NXT, he still had more charisma than anyone else in the ring.

3 -- ALICIA FOX vs. TAMINA

Korpela noted a recent rift between the former allies because Tamina believes Fox has gone soft. Striker added some misogynistic commentary as Tamina worked over Fox to start the match. The announcers then focused on the Kelly vs. Beth feud leading to Night of Champions as Fox sold a nose injury. Interesting commentary ensued as they discussed Hunter-Punk and whether Vince McMahon will return to WWE if Hunter loses to Punk and relinquishes the COO title. In the ring, Fox fought back and nailed her axe kick finisher. Fox slowly rolled Tamina over to make the pin for the win to pick up the comeback win.

WINNER: Fox at 4:28.

4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. ALLEN TURNER

Korpela noted Turner has been scouting the last several weeks and seen Clay destroy each week's opponent. Korpela then stressed Clay hasn't even been taken off his feet since returning. Clay delivered a t-bone suplex and took his time following up with a fisherman-buster suplex. Clay had the win less than a minute in, but pulled off the pin. Striker went back to his one-week run as an agent for Tyson Kidd, noting he sees dollar signs with Clay. Clay eventually nailed his running shoulder tackle for the easy pin and the win. They cut to a great crowd shot of an adult fan selling horror. After a replay, the announcers continued to hype Clay before shifting to Night of Champions hype.

WINNER: Clay at 1:23. Ol' Clay took his time on this one. Just more action footage to put on tape for a video package when Clay returns to the main roster.

5 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. HEATH SLATER

Striker said their feud goes all the way back to... Money in the Bank, leaving out their NXT Season 1 history and one week of Bryan being part of Nexus with Slater last year. Bryan stretched Slater with various submission holds early in the match. Bryan followed with kick strikes to the back and chest that resulted in a two count. Bryan continued to assault Slater and control the match, almost toying with Slater. Striker gave a shout-out to Dean Malenko in reference to Bryan's arsenal of moves before Bryan nailed a textbook dropkick that sent Slater to the outside. They cut to break with Slater trying to collect himself on the floor.

Back from break, Slater actually had some offense. Meanwhile, Striker stressed the rarely-focused-on idea that a victory means more money and a chance to rise up imaginary rankings to earn future title shots. Slater, after landing a few moves, cockily played to the crowd before accepting another round of kick strikes. Korpela then got genuine laughter out of Striker when Korpela kissed up to Triple H and said Hunter's not listening anyways. Striker name-dropped the "released" Kevin Nash, too, as Bryan went flying through the ropes with a suicide dive on Slater.

Back in the ring, Bryan blasted Slater with more strikes, but Slater ducked a third shot and nailed a reverse bodyslam for a two count. Both men sold on the mat before Slater absorbed right hand blows and delivered a gutbuster for a two count. They started trading control before Bryan executed a DDT and flowed right into a guillotine choke. Slater immediately tapped out, giving Bryan the submission win. No replays, but a close-up of Bryan celebrating the hard-fought win closed the show.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 12:16. It's official - Bryan can have a good match with anyone. Another solid piece of in-ring work from Bryan and Slater showed something in the ring as well. Nice conclusion to this week's show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 10 2011, 04:57 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 9-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_53099.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and final segment.

1 -- BRITISH INVASION (Brutus Magnus & Douglas Williams) vs. BROTHER RAY & "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

Mexican America joined Tenay and Taz on commentary, with Anarquia doing all the talking. Anarquia said Jarrett is the Mexican Heavyweight Champion and now "he's one of us." Devon pinned Williams clean. This teaming of Devon & Pope came out of nowhere without any backstory provided before the match and words from Devon explaining his decision to team with him. British Invasion, at last glance, were babyfaces, and here they were basically jobbers. Devon and Pope seemed all friendly with each other, no teasing of tension, and handshakes afterward.

WINNERS: Devon & Pope when Devon pinned Williams in 3:00.

2 -- ERIC YOUNG vs. ROBBIE E. -- TV Title Match

Robbie tried to score a pin early with a foot on the middle rope for leverage. They plugged the Bellator tournament on MTV2 and EPIX. Taz said the X Division is like the Lightweight Division in Bellator. Alvarez said he's partial toward smaller guys because of their athleticism and conditioning. Young finished Robbie with a leaping piledriver.

WINNER: Young in 3:00 to retain the TV Title.

-Afterward Rob Terry attacked Young from behind, officially signaling that he had joined Robbie E. after all. He powerbombed Young and then made a mean face at the camera.

3 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON with Sting as special referee - World Hvt. Title Match

Jeremy Borash handled formal ring introductions. Angle was announced at 225 pounds, qualifying him for the X Division. TNA should have defined the X Division at 205 to match the UFC's Light-Heavyweight Division as 225 is UFC Heavyweight level size, which is just silly as a limit for the X Division. Anderson scored a very near fall at 4:00, but Angle fired back with three unreleased back suplexes for a near fall. Angle applied an anklelock. Anderson winced, then rolled out of it and hit a Mic Check for a believable near fall at 6:00. The ref got mistakenly hit. Angle then hit an Angle slam. As the ref counted, Sting yanked the ref out of the ring by his leg. Angle got up and complained. He was bleeped as he yelled at Sting. Anderson then hit Angle with the Mic Check. The ref was still at ringside arguing with Sting. Gunner then attacked Anderson, prompting the DQ call.

WINNER: Anderson via DQ so Angle retained the title. Very good seven minutes of action, but it didn't quite add up to a whole full fledged World Title match.

4 -- ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER vs. VELVET SKY & MICKIE JAMES

Taz wondered what that phone call was all about. Tenay said next week is Sting vs. Ric Flair, and said, "Top that!" Well, 80 minutes into the show and that's the first plug means it's being undersold by TNA because they have so much else going on. At 4:00 Winter sprayed blood-like liquid into Mickie's face leading to the pin. Tenay noted Winter challenges Mickie for the Knockouts Title at the PPV on Sunday.

WINNER: Winter & Love in 4:00.

5 -- BULLY RAY vs. GUNNER vs. BOBBY ROODE vs. JAMES STORM -- Four-Way

As the match was about to begin, Joe walked to ringside. Morgan attacked him from behind before he got to the ring. At 2:00 Storm and Roode just looked at each other after dropping both Ray and Gunner. Ray got up and jumped them. When Gunner went for a pin seconds later, Ray yelled at him and said, "Hey, I'm the one who's supposed to win!" After double-suplexing Gunner, Roode and Storm stopped and posed and yelled "Beer!… Money!" That gave Ray a chance to recover at ringside and re-enter and double-clothesline them. Ray gave Storm a urinage for a two count. Tenay said Beer Money's celebration may come back to haunt them. Ray gave Roode a Bubba slam. Gunner, though, then gave Ray a running knee to the chin for the win. Taz said he never saw that coming, then said, "Way to go, kid!"

WINNER: Gunner in 6:00.

-Jeff Hardy walked to the ring to his entrance music, but looked more sullen and humbled not showing the charismatic gestures and enthusiasm he usually does. He stood mid-ring and waited for his music to switch off. He got a mixed reaction from the crowd. He told the fans, "I do not deserve that, but thank you." He was presumably talking to those cheering him, not those booing him. He said he wanted to thank The Network first and foremost. He said the last time he was in the ring, "I was pathetic, I was messed up." He said he had a main event match against someone he's looked up to a long time and he failed miserably. "I let everybody down; I let myself down because I wasn't the main evener I know I am. I got here today in Huntsville and the stress, the doubt was overwhelming." He said he almost felt hated. He said he felt epode were still mad at him in the back, and he said they had every right to be. He said he can't change what happened at Victory Road, but he said he considers Victory Road his rock bottom and he asked for one more shot. He said he doesn't expect everyone to forgive him, but he said he can at least ask. He dropped the mic and left the ring as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 10 2011, 04:57 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_53142.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MARK HENRY vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

The bell rang as soon as the show returned from break. Henry wanted a test of strength(!) and Jackson agreed. Nice old-school move here. Jackson went down to his knees but a well-timed “Let’s Go Zeke” chant from the crowd got him to his feet. Henry suplexed him anyway. Jackson wanted another shot at it, and Henry locked hands, but then kicked Jackson in the leg. They struggled over a top wrist-lock, and Jackson went down again. Jackson with some body shots, then a Torture Rack attempt. No dice, as Henry was just too much man. Henry then went to ringside for a breather. Jackson came out after him, but Henry just put his boot up to knock Jackson down. He then rammed Jackson spine-first into the ring post. Back in the ring, big clothesline by Henry. Splash found the mark. A second one did the same. Next, and last, was the World’s Strongest Slam.

WINNER: Henry, at 2:59. Dominant performance for Henry. Wisely kept short.

2 – SIN CARA vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd’s entrance was not shown. Kidd flipped out of a wrist-lock and the two traded counters and reversals. Headscissors by Cara and Kidd went to the outside. Cara flew off the top rope and onto Kidd on the outside. In the ring, a pin by Cara got two at :56. Cole tried to get Mathews to interview Cara after the match about his actions. Mathews said Cara doesn’t speak English. Hip-toss by Kidd sent Cara into turnbuckle. Kick to the back by Kidd for two. Mathews finally said he’d do it if Cole would shut up. Kick to the back of the head by Cara, who made his comeback. Springboard headbutt to Kidd’s chest for two. Cole called Booker T. out for his over-use of clichés. Roll-through by Kidd for two. Booker followed up Cole’s comments by saying Cara dropped Kidd “like a bad habit.” Cara connected on his finishing sequence of the springboard swanton and springboard moonsault for the pinfall.

WINNER: Cara, at 3:33. Added some nice athleticism to the show, especially juxtaposed against the opening match.

3 – KELLY KELLY vs. NATALYA

Phoenix accompanied Natalya to the ring. Face-buster out of the corner by Kelly for one at :16. Kelly choked Nattie with her legs in the ropes. However, Natalya kneed Kelly to the ringside mat. She then plowed into her again on the outside. Beth watched while sitting on the steps, legs folded. She looked very comfortable. In the ring, Nattie trash talked a fallen Kelly, then applied an abdominal stretch. Kelly tried to fight out, but was sent down by her hair. Hook of the leg, two-count at 2:01. Natalya trash talked some more, but Kelly slapped her. Nattie picked Kelly up for a possible Alabama Slam, but twirled her around anyway. Booker admitted to not knowing if Nattie was a second or third generation wrestler. She was about to lock in the Sharpshooter, but Kelly rolled her up for three.

WINNER: Kelly, at 2:56. Standard booking there, and Nattie doesn’t look too bad since it was a somewhat “lucky” finish.

4 – SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT

Crowd was solidly behind Sheamus. The referee demanded a break in the corner, and it was clean. Headlock take-over by Sheamus. Shoulder knock-down followed, good for a two-count. Some hard shots by both men in the corner, but a back elbow floored Barrett. Barrett fled to ringside, and the count was on. He got back in at six. Elbows to the back of the head of Sheamus. The Irishman came back with more forearms and knees. Barrett sent Sheamus hard into the corner, where Sheamus hit chest-first just over 3:00 into the match. Flying elbow by Barrett for two. Barrett had Sheamus in a rear chin-lock as they went to break at 4:01.

Back at 7:33 of the contest, with Barrett still in control. Barrett had Sheamus wrapped in the ropes and rapped his head with knees. Running boot caused Sheamus to fall to ringside. Sheamus tried to fight back, and at 9:35, began to turn things around. He did run into a corner boot, but hit a powerslam anyway. Running knee by Sheamus with Barrett in the ropes. Off the top, he landed a flying shoulder tackle. As he signaled for the High Cross, Christian ran in for the DQ.

WINNER: Sheamus, via DQ, at 10:25. Very punchy-kicky, but other than that, nothing technically wrong with it.

Barrett joined in post-match for the double team, but Sheamus was able to fight out. Christian left the ring, so Barrett fell victim to the Brogue Kick. Christian then snuck to the top and tried to hit Sheamus, but Sheamus got the boot up. He set up for his finisher, but Christian snuck out the back to avoid further damage. The two men stared at each other, Christian on the ramp, and Sheamus in the ring, to end the segment.

5 – AIR BOOM vs. JINDER MAHAL & THE GREAT KHALI

This is a rematch from Raw, at the request of Mahal. Cole said Mahal was reading Khali the riot act backstage prior to the show. Bourne avoided a leapfrog and took Mahal down with a hurricanrana. Mahal pulled Bourne off the top by his foot, then clotheslined him out of mid-air, all in one motion. That was sweet. Tag to Khali, who kicked Bourne in the gut. Booker admitted he doesn’t care for the tag team name of Bourne and Kofi Kingston either. Khali worked over Bourne, then tagged Mahal again. Bourne countered a suplex and his jumping knee to the chin found the mark. Kingston got the hot tag at 1:52. Kofi was all over Mahal, then set up for the Trouble in Paradise. Mahal avoided it, but a springboard cross-body only got two. Bourne tried to cut off Khali, but Khali just tossed him out. Mahal took over and saw Khali in the ring. He screamed for Khali to get out, then slapped him. Khali pie-faced Mahal right into a Trouble in Paradise.

WINNERS: Air Boom, at 3:11. Seems early for a break-up of the heels.

6 – CODY RHODES vs. RANDY ORTON

Quick roll-up by Rhodes for two. Mathews said Rhodes underwent “mandatory facial reconstruction surgery.” Is “mandatory” really the best word to use there? Orton booted Rhodes in the gut. Overhead forearm on Rhodes, then a hard whip into the buckle. Rhodes reversed one, but Orton charged out of the corner with a clothesline. Thesz Press and Orton hammered away with rights. Rhodes headbutted Orton down. Orton came back and even headbutted Rhodes, despite the mask. High knee-drop, but Rhodes moved. Rhodes then went on the attack, looking to take out the knee Orton came up favoring. Orton attempted to set up Rhodes for the rope-assisted DDT, but Orton found himself on the apron and Rhodes hit the springboard enziguiri. Orton recovered on the outside as they went to break at 5:08 of the match.

Back at 9:34 with Rhodes sending Orton face-first into the buckle. Arm-lock by Rhodes, a unique submission maneuver. Top wrist-lock, but Rhodes used it to jam his knees into the mid-section of Orton. Rhodes continued to stay aggressive, not giving Orton much time at all to recover. Back to work on the left arm, after working the knee earlier on. Orton fought back with rights, but Rhodes connected with a knee-lift. Arm-bar by Rhodes. Rhodes missed a corner shoulder charge, but it barely slowed him. Alabama Slam for two at 13:06. Orton shoved Rhodes off on a bulldog attempt, but he fell to the mat as well. Orton slithered into position and landed some offense, including his rope-assisted DDT. He set up for the RKO at 14:40. Rhodes tried to avoid Orton by going out of the ring, then coming back in. Cross-Rhdoes was set up, but Orton countered. Springboard kick missed, but the RKO did not.

WINNER: Orton, at 15:20.

Right after the match, Mark Henry’s music hit and he walked to the ring. He entered the ring and the two men circled each other. Orton pounded away on Henry, but the RKO was avoided. Henry clobbered Orton. This all despite the “no-touching” edict laid out by Smackdown GM Theodore Long. World’s strongest slam by Henry, then another. The announcers were silent throughout this, including when Henry went to ringside to retrieve a chair. Henry sat down over Orton with the bottom part over Orton’s throat. He said he could’ve broken Orton’s leg, but he wants the title, the only reason he’s not going to break Orton’s leg. They went off the air right after Henry’s speech.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 12 2011, 01:50 pm
TNA No Surrender PPV Results: 9-11-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_53179.shtml)

1 -- KID KASH vs. JESSE SORENSEN -- #1 contender's match to the X Division Title

Kash and Jesse went back-and-forth early on as the announcers talked about the new weight limit for the no-limits X Division. Taz threw out a Bischoff quote on the X Division being a "brand within a brand," which means nothing of substance. Kash then blasted Jesse with multiple kick strikes, followed by a front-face slam for a two count. Kash began taunting Jesse, who teased a comeback before Kash cut him off. Kash played to the crowd, then shoved ref Brian Hebner, who shoved back. Kash backed off, then slammed Jesse to the mat again. Kash wanted a top rope move and nearly botched a springboard moonsault, landing on Jesse's forehead. They reset, then went to the finish of Jesse countering a move into a slam that resulted in a pin out of nowhere.

WINNER: Sorensen at 7:55. Sloppy at times and Sorensen had a case of the over-sells. Not a strong opener. (*1/2)

2 -- BULLY RAY (49 pts) vs. JAMES STORM (40 pts) -- BFG Series match
 
Once the bell sounded, Ray stalled, then left the ring and ripped up a fan's sign. Ray returned to the ring, then stalled again. Back to the outside Ray went, which brought Storm to the outside to chase Ray back into the ring. Taz said everyone's had it with Ray trying to avoid fighting. This brought up a "Pussy Ray" chant. Ray teased re-entering a fourth time, but bailed when Storm tried to get at him. Storm turned his back in frustration, which allowed Ray to smash him from behind. Ray did a Stan Hansen shout & pose, then began working on Storm's lower back. Ray suddenly missed with a corner attack and Storm locked on a submission, but Ray bailed to the floor after escaping.
 
Back in the ring, Ray teased locking up with Storm, but ducked under the ropes to stall again. The crowd started its own "Beer...Money" chant before Storm finally got his hands on Ray to apply an armbar submission. Ray escaped, slid to the outside again, and Storm followed up with right hand strikes before smashing Ray's injured left arm into the ring steps. Ray blocked follow-up offense, though, took a swig of beer, distracted the ref with a chair, and spewed the beer in Storm's eyes to temporarily blind him. Ray then telegraphed a Bubba Bomb, which Storm countered into another submission. Ray made it to the bottom rope to escape, though, then Storm followed up with a Sharpshooter. Ray fought the hold, then crawled to the bottom rope for a break.
 
Storm reset with strikes to the injured shoulder before applying another armbar submission, Robert Roode style. Ray escaped, though. Storm then grabbed his beer, took a swig, and spewed the ref in the eyes on accident. Storm then applied a submission and Ray tapped out this time. The ref was slow to come around, then called for the bell. The crowd thought it was for Storm, but the ref ruled a DQ about 15 seconds after a DQ should have been rendered.
 
Post-match: Ray took the mic from So Cal Val after screaming at her, then declared himself as the next World Hvt. champion. Somewhere off-camera, Storm apparently knocked down ref Jackson James after the DQ finish. Tenay reviewed the leaderboard, which now has Ray with 52 points and Storm with 30 points. So, Roode and Gunner, with 42 points, can only tie via a submission victory in their match later on, which would then set up who knows what to determine the BFG Series winner.
 
WINNER: Ray via DQ at 11:48. Good story to the match with Ray stalling and Storm bringing out several submission moves that he can incorporate into his arsenal down the road as a singles wrestler. The only drawback to the match was the latest attempt to use Jackson James in a screwy referee-focused finish that didn't come off smoothly, yet again. (**)

3 -- Knockouts champion MICKIE JAMES vs. WINTER (w/Angelina Love) -- Knockouts Title match
 
Winter attacked Mickie from behind before the opening bell, but instead of ref Earl Hebner resetting the participants to ensure a clean start to the match, he called for the bell. One of those little things TNA consistently does that doesn't make any sense. The match started off with a basic formula of Winter wearing down Mickie to set up a comeback, then the match completely broke down with interference, mist-spewing, referee incompetence, and Winter pinning Mickie to re-capture the Knockouts Title while Mickie's face was covered in a rub substance, which ref Earl Hebner ignored. Post-match, medics checked on Mickie as Winter and Angelina regrouped since Angelina took mist in the confusion.
 
WINNER: Winter at 8:38 to capture the Knockouts Title. Just a complete booking mess and another title change continuing to hot-potato the title.

4 -- TNA tag champions MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/Rosita and Sarita) vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO & BROTHER DEVON -- TNA Tag Title match
 
The challengers held the early advantage, then Rosita hopped on the apron to try to distract Pope, who forced himself onto Rosita for a cheap pop. Ref Jackson James lost control of the match, allowing the heel tag champs to take control in the confusion. The heels began working on Devon as Pope protested from his corner. Pope eventually took a hot tag at 7:00 and cleaned house before taunting Rosita. Pope followed with a top-rope cross-body splash on Anarquia for a two count. The action broke down again moments later and the tag champs collided mid-ring before Sarita randomly entered the ring. Rosita then tried a cross-body splash on Pope, who caught her in mid-air, then spanked her over her knee.
 
The match broke down again and Rosita got involved again. Anarquia then blocked a suplex by Pope as Rosita held down Pope's foot from the outside. Anarquia made the cover, Sarita continued to hold down Pope's foot, ref Jackson James ignored the outside aid, and Anarquia scored a pin for the win. Post-match, Pope laughed at the outcome as MA celebrated ringside.
 
WINNERS: Mexican America at 9:45 to retain the Tag Titles. Another over-booked mess that continued to set back TNA's tag division a few years.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 12 2011, 01:51 pm
5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN
 
"Morgan, Morgan" chant as the opening bell sounded. Morgan landed early offense, but Joe came back with chop. Morgan then turned it around with hard chops and slaps of his own. Morgan followed with his rapid-fire elbow strikes in the corner that put Joe on the seat of his pants. Morgan followed with a running knee to the face, then a headbutt. The crowd chanted for Morgan as the match moved to the floor. Joe came back with right hand strikes, re-entered the ring, and delivered a flying elbow suicide dive. Joe popped up, then shot a double-bird gesture to the crowd before rolling Morgan back into the ring.
 
In the ring, Joe landed right hand jabs. Morgan came back with a corner attack, then uncharacteristically went up top, steadied himself, and landed a cross-body splash for a two count. Joe then yanked Morgan's arm across the top rope to regain control. Joe began targeting the left shoulder with throws, strikes, and submission holds. Morgan recovered to his feet and the two men started trading blows before Morgan rebounded off the ropes and delivered a discus clothesline to begin a comeback. Morgan fired himself up, then measured Joe for a corner splash and a sidewalk slam for a two count. Joe came back with a belly-to-belly throw after an awkward pause for a count, drawing a "Morgan, Morgan" chant.
 
They reset at 10:00 with Joe measuring Morgan for a rear-naked choke, but Morgan rammed Joe into the corner for a break. Joe re-applied, then brought Morgan to the mat with the hold firmly applied. Morgan stomped his foot trying to get the crowd to rally behind him, then he draped his foot across the bottom rope for a break. Joe had to control his temper arguing with Hebner, then he charged Morgan, but missed with a corner attack. Morgan followed right up with the Carbon Footprint and it was good for the pin. Post-match: Joe seethed as he collected himself on the mat and Morgan celebrated the victory.
 
WINNER: Morgan at 11:35. Solid singles match with a refreshingly clean finish. Good action and a nice back-and-forth creating the idea of Joe and Morgan on an equal level before Morgan used Joe's temper against him to score the win. (**1/2)
 
6 -- GUNNER (42 pts) vs. ROBERT ROODE (42 pts) -- BFG Series match
 
Roode quickly targeted Gunner's left arm to begin wearing him down for submission attempts. Gunner cut him off with a DDT straight into the mat, though, and began working on Roode's upper body. The two men began trading control and submission attempts before Roode delivered a spinebuster to reset the match. Roode followed with an armbar center-ring, but Gunner crawled across the ring on his belly to reach the bottom rope for a break. They exchanged holds again, then Roode re-applied the armbar. Gunner teased a rope break, but Roode transitioned to a Cross-face. Gunner fought the hold, but couldn't hold on and was forced to tap out, giving Roode the win.
 
Post-match: Eric Bischoff's music hit to bring out Bischoff to address Roode. Bischoff disingenuously congratulated Roode before telling him he just called out Bully Ray, which he can't back up in the ring. Bischoff said since Roode and Ray are tied atop the standings, they're going to settle it tonight.

WINNER: Roode via submission at 11:58. Nice focus on Roode to set up the finals. Good to see two consecutive clean, solid singles matches delivering good action viewers want to see. (**1/4)

7 -- X Division champion BRIAN KENDRICK vs. AUSTIN ARIES -- X Division Title match
 
Aries was out first, followed by Kendrick wearing his Sabu and Kamala-inspired pants while slinging the title belt around in the air like a toy. Once the bell sounded, Kendrick attempted an early armbar submission, so Aries rolled to the floor to take a breather. Aries bailed again moments later and Kendrick followed out, where he took a standing Russian legsweep into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Aries followed up with repeated offense targeting the back. Kendrick then came back with a pin attempt, but Aries got his foot on the rope, which ref Jackson James saw this time and stopped his count. Aries followed by throwing Kendrick clear over the top rope before flying through the ropes with a suicide dive that missed when Kendrick moved.
 
Back in the ring, the two men reset and started trading forearms. Aries then side-stepped a charging Kendrick and Kendrick went flying to the outside. Aries tried to follow with a twisting splash, but maybe caught two percent of Kendrick, causing both men to splatter on the floor with Kendrick selling that he took the blow. Back in the ring, they traded rapid-fire pin attempts before the PPV froze momentarily. It was stuck on Aries preparing to suplex Kendrick for about 15 seconds before the PPV returned with Kendrick delivered a suplex for a two count. They went to the finish, which started with the referee caught in the corner. Aries then delivered a kick that could have been low before landing a spinning brainbuster suplex. Aries made the pin for the win. Afterward, Aries did a victory parade in the ring before taking a victory lap ringside.
 
WINNER: Aries at 13:24 to capture the X Division Title. Solid, unspectacular match. Just good work for the most part. And, the right outcome to give the division a firm cornerstone champion to build upon. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 12 2011, 01:51 pm
8 -- BULLY RAY (52 pts) vs. ROBERT ROODE (52 pts) -- BFG Series Finals
 
Once the bell sounded, the two finalists came face-to-face to "sell the moment," as the crowd chanted "Beer...Money," then "Pussy Ray." The two men started jawing with each other before Ray backed away to a neutral corner. He teased locking up before stalling, just like the match with James Storm. Ray then approached a man on the front row to intimidate him, but the large man stood up to stare down Ray, who backed away. Ray eventually re-entered the ring to lock up with Roode and begin the match. They got over Roode's toughness early on, as he absorbed a round of punches before delivering a big knock-down clothesline that sent Ray scurrying to the outside again.
 
Back in the ring, Ray locked up and delivered a shoulder block before channeling Stan Hansen again. Another lock-up and another shoulder block for a two count. Roode came back with a Crossface out of nowhere and Ray grabbed ref Earl Hebner to gain some leverage for a counter into a quick pin for a one count. Ray came back with a neckbreaker to target the neck and begin a methodical attack. Ray then delivered hard chops that Roode had enough off and no-sold before firing himself and the crowd up. Ray and Roode had a great tough-guy exchange before Roode backed Ray into the corner and delivered a flying neckbreaker for a two count.
 
At 12:00, Ray delivered a Bubba Bomb, but Roode kicked out in time. Ray sold frustration before going to the second rope for a flying butt splash that did not connect. Roode followed right up with a spinebuster nad made a pin near the ropes. It was good for the win, giving Roode the win and the BFG Series victory. Post-match: Roode sold exhaustion as blood spilled from his nose. Roode posed in the ring before doing the belt-around-the-waist motion. After a replay, they showed Roode celebrating in the crowd as Ray sold shock, then disappointment in the ring. Roode declared he's the next World Hvt. champion as he continued his celebration ringside. Good to see TNA actually stay in a moment rather than abruptly cutting away.
 
WINNER: Roode at 12:30. Very good singles match based on the story and hard physical exchanges. Roode is getting his main event shine and Ray continues to be a top-notch heel for TNA. Overall, a nice four-match sequence of strong singles matches with clean finishes. (***)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. STING vs. MR. ANDERSON -- three-way TNA World Title match
 
Once the bell sounded, Angle bailed to the outside to let Sting and Anderson fight, but they opted to wait for Angle to return to the ring and double-team him. The challengers eventually cleared Angle to the outside and battled each other while Angle regrouped on the floor. Angle re-entered and delivered a double German Suplex that took its toll on all three men. Angle took control of the match and applied a rear naked choke on Sting. They did the bit with one hand drop, then a second hand drop, then a teased third hand drop that didn't pop the crowd when Sting tried to sell fire that he was still alive. Sting then came back with a DDT, but Anderson broke up the pin.
 
At 10:00, Angle started his German Suplex sequence on Anderson, then had the same offering for Sting. Angle tried pins on both, but they each kicked out. Angle and Anderson battled up, like they were waiting for Sting, but he was down and out in the corner. Angle then threw Anderson off the top rope with an overhead suplex for a two count. Sting came to life and dumped Angle to the outside before grappling Anderson for a Scorpion Deathlock. Anderson considered tapping, but Angle broke it up and delivered an Angle Slam on Sting. Angle made a cover, but Sting barely rolled a shoulder to escape. Anderson was next in line for an Angle Slam that also resulted in a nearfall.
 
At 13:45, Angle dropped the straps and applied the Anklelock on Sting. Anderson took his sweet time teasing breaking it up, so Sting rolled through to escape the hold. Suddenly, there was life in the crowd as something was going on off-camera. Apparently it was Hogan, as they went to a spot moments later where Angle took Sting to the outside and whipped him into the guardrail, where Hogan was standing by to mace Sting.
 
Back in the ring, Sting stumbled into the ref to tease the Scorpion Deathdrop since he was "blinded," but Angle grabbed Sting and delivered the Angle Slam. Angle pinned a blinded Sting for the anti-climatic pin and the win. Afterward, Hogan made his way into the ring to celebrate with Angle. Tenay said Immortal has Angle's back and Robert Roode needs to watch out at Bound for Glory. They signed off 51 minutes past the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Angle at 15:28 to retain the TNA World Title. A now-typical TNA PPV main event this year: cheap outside interference, slow action, an anti-climatic finish, a sense of indifference toward the characters, and an exhausted crowd nine matches into the PPV. Apparently Hogan costing Sting the TNA Title that Sting's character doesn't even care about will set up the Hogan-Sting match at BFG, assuming Sting beats Ric Flair on Thursday's Impact. Not much juice behind a Sting-Hogan match right now based on the feeling in the crowd during the PPV, but TNA has a few weeks of TV to attempt to get people interested, if that match is actually happening. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 13 2011, 02:00 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53221.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN MORRISON & ALEX RILEY vs. U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Cole and Lawler bantered back and forth, suggesting Lawler is wrestling again this week. The heels quickly cornered Morrison as Ross talked about the history of managers in wrestling. Swagger wanted a tag, so he blind-tagged himself into the match after Morrison KO'ed Ziggler. Riley cleaned house, but Swagger came back on him with the anklelock. Riley escaped by tossing Swagger into Ziggler, then he finished off Swagger with a finishing move. Ziggler had a chance to break up the pin, but refused to intervene. Post-match, Vickie screamed at Ziggler for screwing it up before they went to a replay of the finish. Back live, Swagger complained from the ring as Ziggler and Vickie stood on the stage.

WINNERS: Riley & Morrison at 2:44. Presented as a filler segment with this program stuck in neutral.

2 -- WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/Evan Bourne) vs. THE MIZ (w/R-Truth)

Miz quickly took control of the match, looking to keep Kofi on the mat. Miz and Kofi had a rapid-fire exchange before spilling to the outside together. The non-wrestling partners helped their partners to their feet as Ross sent the show to break 1:30 into the match.

Back from break, Miz had Kofi in a reverse chinlock while Truth was jawing with the ringside fans. Cole turned his attention to trying to get a reaction out of Ross while Miz lost control of the match in the ring. Kofi made a comeback with rapid-fire offense before connecting with a double springboard cross-body splash for a two count. Kofi tried a small package, but Miz escaped. Kofi with a standing dropkick, but Miz crotched Kofi on the top turnbuckle. Miz then dropped Kofi on the back of his head before calling for the end. Miz wanted the Skullcrushing Finale, and he connected. No resistance from Kofi and it was good for the win. Post-match: Bourne checked on Kofi as Miz and Truth gloated. Truth, satisfied, left the ring with Miz as the announcers stressed the challengers's chances to capture the Tag Titles on Sunday.

WINNER: Miz at 8:22.

3 -- JERRY LAWLER & SHEAMUS vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DAVID OTUNGA

Lawler started things off for his team and took an early beating from the former tag champs. Lawler escaped Mike, then tagged in Sheamus, who delivered a running bodyslam before delivering trademark forearm strikes across the chest. Sheamus nailed a running knee lift, smiled to the crowd, and went up top for a flying shoulder tackle. Sheamus called for the end, but Otunga slipped into the ring. Sheamus then dropped him with a Brogue Kick, turned around, and dropped Mike with a Brogue Kick. Sheamus called for the end and set up for the Cross. Lawler told Otunga to watch as Sheamus dropped Mike with the Celtic Cross. Sheamus with the pin for the win. Post-match: Sheamus and Lawler celebrated as the camera picked up a shot of Lawler with a bloody nose.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:31. They really made Sheamus look like a huge, dominating star here.

4 -- JOHN CENA & BRET HART vs. WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO & RICARDO RODRIGUEZ

Cena did a matador routine waving his red t-shirt into the crowd to make Ricardo run through it like a bull. Cena then tossed his t-shirt into the crowd and Ricardo tried to attack him from behind, which made Cena slowly turn around before back-dropping Ricardo across the ring. Ricardo hugged Del Rio's waist, which was considered a blind tag. Cena chased Del Rio and Ricardo around ringside before Del Rio blasted him with a kick to the head back in the ring. The champ went to work on Cena before Cena came back with a corner attack and dropkick. Ricardo then accidentally tagged into the match and Cena delivered his comeback routine on Ricardo. The crowd wanted Hart, though. Cena then hoisted up Ricardo for the Attitude Adjustment as Del Rio walked away from ringside. Cena connected with the AA, saw Del Rio was gone, and approached Hart for a tag after trying to get the crowd invested.

Hart took his time entering the ring and approached Ricardo for the Sharpshooter. Ricardo immediately tapped, giving Hart the win. Post-match: Hart's music played before Cena took the mic. He told Del Rio to keep running all the way to Night of Champions. He said at the end of the night, The Champ is here (pointing to himself) for a mixed reaction. Cena and Hart celebrated in the ring before Hart's music played again. Hart posed in the ring as they faded to commercial.

WINNERS: Cena & Hart via submission at 3:23. What you would expect on the show before a PPV trying to give Cena some of Hart's rub in Canada and give the crowd/TV audience a happy moment.

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY vs. VICKIE GUERRERO (w/U.S. champion Dolph Ziggler) -- non-title match

Vickie did some stretching to pretend like she was warming up, then Kelly began toying with her over-matched opponent. Jack Swagger came to ringside and jawed with Ziggler before punching the U.S. champ in the mouth. Vickie, distracted, was rolled up from behind by Kelly for the win. Afterward, Vickie argued with both men before Beth Phoenix ran into the ring to get her hands on Kelly, but Kelly avoided and ran away, setting up their title match at the PPV.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:09.

6 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. Intercontinental champion CODY RHODES -- Champion vs. Champion non-title match

Rhodes took the early advantage, but Orton came back with a back-body drop that sent Rhodes half-way across the ring. Suddenly, Mark Henry came out on-stage, so Orton grabbed a chair and teased chasing after him, but Henry ran away to the back. Rhodes then attacked Orton from behind on the entrance ramp and the two men brawled ringside before re-entering the ring. Moments later, Henry re-emerged on-stage with his own chair. Henry sat down on the stage, drawing Orton out of the ring again. After a lengthy stare down with Henry, Orton returned to ringside and Rhodes dropped him with a kick. The ref should have been near a ten-count at this point (the ref was only at four, though) and WWE abruptly cut to break.

Back live, the crowd was trying to rally behind Orton as Rhodes was in control of the match with Henry watching from the stage. Cole with a Big Show & Kane reference as Orton broke free of Rhodes. That drew Henry down from the stage to ringside for a closer seat. Orton tried to divide his attention between Henry and Rhodes, which allowed Rhodes to try Cross Rhodes before Orton countered with his trademark DDT off the second rope. Orton then dropped down on the mat for the RKO, which Henry's attention. Henry stood on the ring steps, which drew Orton's attention. Rhodes then popped Orton with his mask behind the ref's back and nailed Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win.

Post-match: The announcers stressed it was a cheap victory before Henry entered the ring with chair in-hand. Henry measured Orton and popped him across the back with the chair before demanding the title belt. Henry held it up high as Orton sold on the mat. Henry's music played before Henry shouted down at Orton that it's his time now. After a replay of Henry's attack, Cole rhetorically asked if the 15-year wait is finally over Henry.

WINNER: Rhodes at 10:25. More maintenance work for Night of Champions. Fine.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 16 2011, 08:07 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 9-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53261.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TYSON KIDD & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. TITUS O'NEIL & PERCY WATSON

Showtime started things off against Bateman before tagging in Titus to double-team Bateman. Of note, no sign of Maxine with Bateman, nor Hornswoggle with Titus for this tag match. Kidd then tagged in and took a beating from Titus and Percy. Percy was only slowed down when Bateman grabbed his foot from the outside to allow the heels to take control of the action. Kidd made a mistake at 5:45 attempting a top-rope move that Watson intercepted with a dropkick. Titus then hot-tagged and ran over Bateman, who also tagged in. Titus channeled Ultimate Warrior with the rope-shake and delivered a powerslam for a pin...except Kidd broke it up. Moments later, Titus dropped Bateman with his sky-high bomb - Clash of the Titus - for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Titus & Showtime at 7:06. Your basic NXT tag match enhancing Titus and giving Showtime some ring time.

2 -- A.J. vs. MAXINE

Regal told some stories as the two Divas exchanged blows fighting over the whereabouts of Hornswoggle. Maxine took control as Regal turned his attention to running down Darren Young and Jimmy the Gimmick ahead of the main event tag match later in the show. "Where's your boyfriend at, huh?" Maxine taunted A.J. before A.J. teased a comeback. A.J. never really made a comeback and eventually succumbed to a power move from Maxine for the pin. Afterward, Titus represented Hornswoggle by checking on A.J. to ensure no further damage from Maxine.

WINNER: Maxine at 5:40. Well, at least someone from the Bateman & Maxine duo is getting over on NXT.

3 -- WILLIAM REGAL & MATT STRIKER vs. DARREN YOUNG & JTG

Cole, standing up, declared he is back home here on NXT. Regal leaned on the top rope to engage Cole before Cole asked Korpela what happened to the other guy (Grisham). JTG and Regal then started running the ropes simultaneously as Cole tried to understand what was going on here. Regal and Striker playing battering ram to clear the heels to the outside. Korpela sent it to break as Cole heeled on the show for cutting to a break so early in the match.

Back from break, Cole told "Jim" he needs to correct something. He called out Korpela for calling this an "incredible" main event going to break. Cole then heeled on Striker and his outfit, said no one can understand JTG, said Young is still living on Summerslam two years ago (one year ago), and said the show has completely gone off the deep end. Cole said Striker being back in the ring shows how low the show has gone. Cole just kept talking as Korpela just smiled and watched Cole. Korpela threw Cole a softball saying Striker is a fan and has so much respect for WWE. Cole said he's flabbergasted that WWE actually pays to send Striker and Korpela to TV every week. He said he'd like to see Triple H sitting at his desk at Titan Towers when the expense account comes in from Korpela's breakfast tab. Cole then heeled on the show for being on Internet only, and not even on television. Cole noted Zack Ryder's YouTube show gets more hits than this show gets.

While all this was going on, the heels were working over Striker. Cole suddenly flipped his opinion of Young and talked him up. Crazy Cole then flipped his opinion again and heeled on Young for trying to question Regal's credibility. Korpela tried to defend Striker, saying he's been in the gym a whole two times a week the past two weeks. Cole had a field day as the heels continued to work on Striker. Cole then heeled on Hunter again, saying WWE could finally be on the right path if Hunter loses on Sunday to be gone as COO. Cole then heeled on hockey, Canada, and Striker getting a cheap pop in the opening segment.

Regal hot-tagged at 9:15 and cleaned house before doing his bit mule-kicking Young while having the ref distracted. Regal cleared JTG to the outside before tagging in Striker again. Striker charged Young with a right hand, then blasted him with a boot to the face. And another one in the corner. Striker made a cover, but JTG broke it up. Regal and JTG battled to the outside, while back in the ring, Striker and Young had a weird exchange trying to set up a spot. Afterward, Young power-lifted Striker to his shoulders and delivered a Roddy Strong-style gutbuster for the pin and the win. Cole said it's time for something new on NXT. Cole noted it was his pleasure to carry Korpela the last few minutes.

Suddenly, the Usos randomly stormed the ring and cleared JTG and Young to the outside. The Usos stood tall in the ring and Cole said perhaps the Usos will get their opportunities if Hunter loses on Sunday. Korpela signed off as Cole tried to get the last word in.

WINNERS: Young & JTG at 11:02. What was that? Since WWE isn't trying to sell anything and this show went off the tracks a long time ago, Cole was great in his absurdity. At the end of the day, there's still no end in sight for this season. It will never end.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2011, 01:05 pm
WWE Night of Champions PPV Results: 9-18-11 (Next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_53416.shtml)

1 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) vs. AWESOME TRUTH (THE MIZ & R-TRUTH) -- WWE Tag Title match

Early on, the announcers discussed past memorable tag teams (all singles wrestlers joining together, rather than natural tag teams). Booker actually said, "I was part of a great team...Booker T and Goldust." Booker then heeled on the Air Boom team name as the tag champs landed high-flying offense on the outside to take out Miz. Back in the ring, Truth cut off Bourne and the heels began working over Bourne. Miz started dancing around the ring like a boxer, drawing a Floyd Mayweather reference from Booker. Miz lost control, though, and Kofi hot-tagged for a leaping cross-body, then Boom Drop on Miz. Kofi followed up with the SOS, but Miz kicked out in time, showing resiliency. Miz came right back with an implant DDT on Kofi and the announcers said it was all over, but Kofi kicked out.

There was an over-done spot where Bourne feigned a tag behind the ref's back, and the ref allowed the tag based on sound. After some nearfalls for Bourne, Bourne went top for Air Bourne, but Miz moved and delivered an implant DDT. Miz made the cover, but Kofi broke it up. The ref lost control when Truth made a tag behind the ref's back, but the ref didn't allow Truth into the ring because he didn't hear it. In the background, Miz hit the Skullcrushing Finale on Bourne, but the ref was still occupied with Truth on the apron. That allowed Bourne to kick out in time. Miz had enough and shoved down the ref out of frustration. The ref then came to his senses and called for the bell, DQ'ing Miz and Truth.

WINNERS: Air Boom via DQ at 9:51. More like a TV match than a PPV bout. Three things happened here: Air Boom continued to look weak, WWE played up Miz and Truth's conspiracy theory program, and WWE took the referee controversy from the Mayweather-Ortiz fight last night and incorporated it into the opening match.

2 -- Intercontinental champion CODY RHODES vs. TED DIBIASE -- IC Title match
 
Basic exchange early on, then Cody slapped Ted, who tackled him, but couldn't take advantage. Cody landed a headbutt to continue wearing down DiBiase before delivering his trademark springboard kick for a two count. Rhodes continued to wear down DiBiase as Booker said he appears to be ready to take the next step to World Title material. DiBiase finally showed some life with strikes before delivering a running knee for a two count. DiBiase followed with a dropkick to the face, but Cody grabbed the bottom rope to avoid a three count. The first noticeable reaction of the match came 9:30 in when DiBiase ripped off Rhodes's mask and held it up for the crowd. DiBiase tried to use the mask as a weapon, but Rhodes ducked, rolled him up, hooked the tights, and scored the three count for the win to retain the title.
 
WINNER: Rhodes at 9:44 to retain the IC Title. Forgettable match. WWE has damaged DiBiase's character so much that the audience didn't care until DiBiase ripped off Rhodes's mask.

3 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. ALEX RILEY vs. JOHN MORRISON -- U.S. Title match -- fatal four-way
 
Ric Flair reference early on as Cole noted past U.S. Hvt. champions. Wrestlers were in and out of the match to start things off before Swagger cleared Morrison to the floor with a hip-toss over the top rope. Swagger then found himself in the ring with Ziggler, drawing screams from Vickie. Swagger cleared Ziggler to the floor, then Riley dropped Swagger with a TKO for the pin, but Vickie put Swagger's foot on the bottom rope. Everyone started yelling at Vickie, allowing Morrison to score a close nearfall on Ziggler. The action picked up at 5:00 when they teased a few Tower of Doom spots that left Morrison and Ziggler on the floor and Swagger and Riley KO'ed in the ring. Morrison re-entered with a hot streak of offense before attempting Starship Pain, but Riley got his knees up to block.
 
After a teased double submission spot for Swagger and Ziggler, Swagger ran into Ziggler. Riley then dropped Swagger with his finisher, but Swagger kicked out just in time. They reset with Swagger delivering a gut wrench powerbomb on Riley, but Ziggler did the house show finish shoving Swagger out of the way, then pinning Riley to retain the U.S. Title. Ziggler retains. Afterward, Vickie celebrated with Ziggler as Swagger sold shock in the ring.

WINNER: Ziggler at 8:21 to retain the U.S. Title. Very nice second-half to the match, some well-done and believable nearfalls, and the Vickie-Dolph-Swagger triangle continued with some measure of advancement compared to the snail's pace of this storyline on TV. (**1/4)

4 -- World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. MARK HENRY -- World Title match
 
Cole played up a big-match setting for the World Title match as Booker noted he brought the World Title over to WWE. Also, Batista was referenced as a former World champion. Champ and Challenger circled the ring before Orton landed decisive offense to take Henry off his feet. Orton landed a knee drop to the jaw, which caused Henry to slap the mat, pop up, and stare down Orton, who then side-stepped a charging Henry to throw him to the floor. The story got the crowd involved before Henry re-entered the ring and delivered a big boot to the face. Henry teased the World's Strongest Slam, but Orton slipped over Henry's head and slapped on a sleeperhold. Henry escaped by placing Orton on the top turnbuckle, then punching him clear off the top to the floor.

Back in the ring at 4:15, Henry began assaulting Orton with a variety of punishing offense. Henry delivered a big splash and Cole declared it's over, which meant it wasn't, and Orton kicked out before three. Orton tried a comeback at 8:00, but Henry fought him off, only to miss with a second big splash. Orton was the first man to his feet and he delivered ten big punches. Five more almost drew a DQ. Henry was taken off his feet again via dropkick, then Orton stalked Henry for his patented DDT, only to have Henry headbutt him away. Henry followed up with the World's Strongest Slam, but Orton kicked out. Henry sold frustration as the announcers suggested he really can't win the big one. Henry tried to go for a corner splash to end it, but Orton got his feet up. Orton then hit a DDT and dropped down to the mat to tease the RKO, but Henry rolled to the apron. Orton tried the patented DDT from the second rope and managed to execute it to a big reaction. Orton made a cover, but Henry grabbed the bottom rope for a break.

At 11:30, Orton reset and stalked Henry, who flung him into the ropes out of nowhere. Henry used the opening to kick Orton in the gut before coming to his feet. Henry sneered down at Orton looking for the kill and kicked him in a now-injured left knee. Orton tried pulling himself up on one leg, then tried a desperation RKO, but Henry shoved him away and delivered the World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the cover and it was good for the win. They cut to crowd shots of disappointed and shocked fans while Henry took his World Title belt and held it up in the air.
 
WINNER: Henry at 13:07 to capture the World Title. Good, sports-oriented story after solid build-up on TV. Orton's "knee injury" gave him an "out" and sets up a likely re-match in two weeks at Hell in a Cell. Also looming is Sheamus, who split two matches with Henry over the past month. (**)

5 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Natalya) -- Divas Title match
 
Even offense to start the match and Beth nearly got herself DQ'ed for being over-aggressive. Later, Eve tackled Natalya ringside and a brawl broke out. Beth nearly scored a pin in the ring during the chaos. They reset and Beth scored a superplex, but sold the effects and couldn't make a pin in time for a three count. Beth tried to remain calm, then went for a powerbomb, but Kelly rolled through into a quick pin for the win. Kelly jumped out of the ring to celebrate with Eve as Beth (and the crowd) sold disbelief. They stayed in the moment for a while as Beth sold fighting back tears, unable to get the job done.
 
WINNER: Kelly at 6:30 to retain the Divas Title. Good story with the crowd invested due to Beth. Rarely does someone win in his or her hometown, though, so the finish wasn't surprising. It will be interesting if they go the "one last shot" route for Hell in a Cell in two weeks. Or, if they move on to Natalya.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2011, 01:05 pm
6 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match
 
The crowd was hot early with a "Let's Go Cena" vs. "Cena Sucks" chant. Lawler noted some members of the Buffalo Bills are ringside after their win over the Raiders earlier in the day. Cena paused to acknowledge the dueling chants before Ricardo grabbed Cena's foot from the outside during a sequence. The ref saw Cena drop, saw Ricardo standing on the outside, and gave him the boot. Ricardo protested, but headed to the back. Another loud dueling chant picked up as Del Rio controlled the action. The two men reset in the ring, came to their feet, and knocked each other down with a double clothesline. Cena tried to get in some offense, but Del Rio continued to cut him off.
 
Cena made his trademark comeback at 10:00 and wanted the Attitude Adjustment, but Del Rio countered with a backstabber for a two count. Del Rio and Cena started a series of counters and reversals that ended with Del Rio in control. Del Rio hung up Cena in the corner and went for a diving headbutt, but Cena moved and Del Rio ate the ringpost. Cena then hit a top-rope guillotine leg drop, but Del Rio kicked out. More counters and reversals. Del Rio tried a top-rope move and connected with an ugly-but-effective flying splash that looked like a kid jumping into the pool with no idea what he was going for, but Cena kicked out. Del Rio then tried the cross arm-breaker, but it gave Cena an opportunity to "display his power" with a powerbomb counter after powerlifting Del Rio into the air. Cena then hit the AA, dumped a returning Ricardo off the top rope, and slapped on the STF. Del Rio fought the hold for a while, but tapped out, giving Cena another title victory.
 
Post-match: Del Rio and Ricardo recovered on the outside before Cena celebrated in the ring. Cena then shook hands with Lawler and played to the ringside fans before declaring the Champ is Here. Cena paused to interact with some Cena Haters as Michael Cole's voice continued to fall apart. They went to a replay of Cena celebrating the title victory.
 
WINNER: Cena via submission at 17:32. Slow spots early on, then some decent-to-good sequences leading to the finish. It sets up a re-match at Hell in a Cell in two weeks, where Del Rio could win the title back before WWE travels to Mexico for TV tapings. Del Rio needs a sustained run since WWE is desperate for top stars, but WWE was booked in a corner where Cena had to win here, as their top star couldn't lose three straight PPV title matches. (**3/4)

7 -- C.M. PUNK vs. TRIPLE H -- No DQ match, Hunter's COO role on the line
 
The brawl moved to the announce table position. Hunter teased a Pedigree, but Punk slipped out and scrambled back into the ring. Hunter stared at him while standing on the announce table, then slowly entered the ring to square off against Punk. Once the announcers reset, Booker and Lawler carried the broadcast, with Cole interjecting a soundbyte here and there. The match moved to the floor and Hunter ran Punk's leg into the ringpost. They teased going over the guardrail, but Punk kept it ringside and sent Hunter into the ring steps.
 
Hunter came back with a whip over the guardrail that moved the action to the floor. The ringside fans sat politely as Hunter and Punk brawled on the floor. The fight then moved along the floor section toward the entrance area. The fight spilled over to the set, where Hunter catapulted Punk into a videoboard. Punk then sent Hunter over the videoboard, where a laptop was spotted. The Raw GM? Punk landed a double axehandle before throwing some equipment toward Hunter's head. Punk sent Hunter into the other videoboard before dragging Hunter down the entrance ramp toward the ring.
 
Punk rolled Hunter into the ring at 9:20 before going under the ring for a chair. Punk cracked it over Hunter's back before doing a crotch chop. Punk with a cover, but Hunter kicked out. Punk was the aggressor, but ran into a Double A spinebuster from Hunter for a two count. Hunter followed up with a hard whip into the chair propped up in the corner that sent Punk spilling to the floor. On the floor, Hunter clipped Punk's left knee and Punk screamed out in pain to sell the move. Hunter then wrapped Punk's knee around the ringpost before smashing the knee into the post with a steel chair. Hunter did a crotch chop before attempting a figure-four on the floor, but Punk shoved Hunter away and into the ring steps. Punk then kicked Hunter onto the Spanish announce table (no-selling the knee work) and returned to the ring. Punk perched himself up top, did the Randy Savage pose, and delivered a flying elbow onto Hunter through the table, which popped the crowd. Lawler called the move "savage" as both men recovered on the floor.
 
Back in the ring, the two men sold the effects before R-Truth and The Miz stormed the ring. They attacked both Hunter and Punk before Miz delivered the Skullcrushing Finale to Hunter. Punk then took Paydirt from Truth. Miz then rolled Punk on top of Hunter and told the ref to count. Hunter kicked out, though, and Miz sold shock. Truth called the next shot for them to take out ref Scott Armstrong. Armstrong tried to stand up to Miz, then popped Miz with a right hand. Truth jumped him from behind, though, and the two men beat down Armstrong. Booker and Lawler were trying to make sense of this, with the COO currently in a match and no one in charge.
 
John Laurinaitis then came out and tried waving some people down with him. Back in the ring, Hunter and Punk sold life to clear Miz and Truth out of the ring. In the confusion, Hunter dropped Punk with the Pedigree. No ref was available, though. A new ref came out, but Ace told him to check on the original ref, Armstrong. Hunter demanded answers, then turned around and took the G2S from Punk. This time, Ace allowed the new ref to count the pin, but Truth broke up the pin. (Why would Truth break it up when they want Hunter fired?) On the floor, Punk smashed Truth with the G2S.
 
Back in the ring, Punk slowly reset and went for a springboard clothesline, but Hunter intercepted with a kick to the gut and Pedigree. Hunter made the cover, but Punk kicked out to a huge reaction. New referee in here, of note, as Laurinaitis turned around to place a phone call or send a text. Suddenly, the crowd started popping for something off-camera and there's Kevin Nash. Nash went over the guardrail and into the ring to pop Punk, then Hunter. Nash pounded on Hunter, then tried a Jackknife, but Punk broke it up. Nash absorbed the blow, though, and delivered a Powerbomb on Punk. The crowd was quiet as Nash left the ring to clothesline Punk on the floor. Nash then started clearing the announce table as Booker tried to ask Nash what was going. Suddenly, Hunter emerged out of nowhere with a sledgehammer to KO Nash. The camera zoomed in on Hunter with those big determined eyes as he slid back into the ring. Hunter crawled toward Punk, who recovered to his feet. Hunter delivered the Pedigree center-ring, rolled Punk over, and it was good for the win.
 
Pot-match: Hunter remained on top of Punk, selling the effects. They showed Nash still KO'ed ringside. Hunter stared down at Punk as Lawler and Booker recapped what just happened. Hunter then made it to his feet and got his hand raised. Booker noted that tonight Hunter was the Last Man Standing (foreshadowing for what's to come at Hell in a Cell?) as the credits came on. Booker said they have a lot to sort out here. Hunter did a crotch chop toward Punk, who began to stir on the opposite side of the ring. They signed off at 10:47 p.m. EST.
 
WINNER: Triple H at 24:09; Hunter remains COO. A wild brawl with the expected interference to give Punk an "out" for his expected loss. One item coming out of this was the latest paragraph in the chapter of Laurinaitis trying to undermine Hunter, which kept things where they are for now since Hunter remains COO. It seemed like WWE was going for something bigger than how the match finished, but they're either saving it for TV, one of the upcoming PPVs, or they're keeping things the way they are for now. Miz and Truth had to interfere, but there's no explanation for Truth breaking up Punk's pin on Hunter other than Truth's character is just nuts. The match delivered on expectations, but perhaps fell short on the wild booking scenarios created by the No DQ stipulation and TV mysteries. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2011, 02:07 pm
TNA Impact Wrestlig Results: 9-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's report though Caldwell had to complete it in another report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_53348.shtml) The usual condensed in-ring crap.

1 -- MEXICAN AMERICA (Sarita & Rosita & Hernandez & Anarquia) vs. TARA & MISS TESSMACHER & DEVON & "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO

As Mexican America walked to the ring, the announcers recapped their successful tag title defense on Sunday at No Surrender.

When the match began, the announcer touted Roode's victory on Sunday, earning him a World Title shot against Angle at Bound for Glory.

At 4:00 all eight were in the ring briefly. Tara and Tessmacher double powerbombed Sarita and Rosita for a dual pinfall. The "STUPID REF" for some reason allowed two illegal people in the ring at once and counted their pin simultaneously. It looked good, but made no sense.

WINNER: Tara & Tessmacher & Pope & Devon in 4:00.

2 -- ANGELINA LOVE (w/Winter) vs. VELVET SKY

Love attacked Sky as she entered the ring. The "STUPID REF" decided that was a good time to signal for the bell to start the match, needlessly rewarding the heel for the illegal attack. The "OBLIVIOUS ANNOUNCERS" were not the least bit bothered by this. Tenay said what Love did without even a hint of outrage. He might as well have been saying she waved at a friend in the crowd he was so matter-of-fact about it. It ceases to be an effective heel tactic if the "OBLIVIOUS ANNOUNCERS" aren't outraged or upset. All announcers today should listen to Mick Karch's current calling of local Minnesota indy wrestling that airs on a local channel. He's the best announcer in wrestling today because he's the only one who gets that his job is to accentuate the awfulness of the actions of the heels and the heroics of the babyfaces, and announce the action as if the outcome makes a difference and rules should be enforced in order to get a true deserving winner. Effective announcing is such a lost art at this point for a wide array of reasons.

They cut to a very early break after Love beat up Sky in the ring, then threw her to the floor.

Love locked Sky in a chinlock tighter than most of Cena's chinlocks. Sky elbowed out of it, but Winter tripped her as she bounced into the ropes. Love then regained her advantage with a barrage of punches. Taz said the ref didn't see the interference, but again didn't seem the least bit upset by Winter's actions. Winter choked Sky on the middle rope. Tenay "objectively" showed zero emotion toward that heel tactic. Winter went back to another chinlock.

Sky made a comeback and played to the crowd. Winter swung her belt from the ring apron at Sky, but she ducked and the belt hit Love, leading to the pin.

WINNER: Sky in 8:00.

3 -- SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN - Submission Match

How did this match not get hyped before this? It totally defines down the importance of the match to just throw it out here at the top of the second hour without any context or hype. Joe attacked Morgan from behind, so the "STUPID REFEREE" called for the bell to start the match. The "OBLIVIOUS ANNOUNCERS" didn't react with any outrage at the heel's cheating tactic. Tenay flatly said, "Here comes Joe from behind." That's all. Morgan fought back right away with some corner offense a la Kevin Nash.

Joe went for a sleeper, and there was a strange edit I've never seen before where they showed Joe apply the sleeper from one angle, then quickly cut to another "live" angle which showed Joe two seconds back in time applying the sleeper again.

More intensity in this match than almost anything on Sunday's PPV. Joe applied a figure-four leglock at 5:00 and Morgan tapped out. Taz noted that Joe set the table by going after his ankle all match. Yeah, all five minutes of it. Taz said he tapped so he could fight another day. Tenay put Joe over as a "submission specialist" and throughout the match they sold this as Joe's style of match. It was pretty evenly fought until the finish.

WINNER: Joe in 5:00 via tapout.

***

The final 30 minutes of Impact started with the second-half of Robert Roode vs. Kazarian, with Roode picking up a nice, clean win via submission to continue his quest for Kurt Angle's TNA World Title at Bound for Glory.

STING vs. RIC FLAIR -- Sting's career on the line vs. Sting receiving a match against Hulk Hogan at Bound for Glory

Very, very basic start to the match to cut a slow pace. They cut to break 2:10 in after a shoving match put Flair on his back.

Back from break at 6:10, Sting cleared Flair to the outside, allowing Flair to catch a breather on the floor. Some reference incompetence from Earl Hebner gave Flair control via a low-blow and an opening to catch his breath again. They did the classic figure-four spot with Flair holding onto the ropes for additional leverage while Hebner was occupied with Sting.

With Flair in control, the match continued to the top of the hour into the over-run. Sting started no-selling, so Flair begged off, then Sting executed a superplex from the top turnbuckle. At this point, Immortal stormed the ring and Sting fought them off one by one. Hogan was the last one to the ring, then Mr. Anderson's music hit and he chased off Bully Ray.

In the confusion, Hogan handed brass knucks to Flair, who popped Sting. Flair clutched his arm, then made the cover, but Sting lifted an arm to "kick out." Hogan gave them a cue to take it home as confusion ensued. Sting then hit the Scorpion Splash and slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. Sting pointed toward Hogan as Flair tapped, giving Sting the win at 15:00.

Impact then closed with Tenay plugging Sting vs. Hulk Hogan at Bound for Glory. Hogan and Sting had a stare down from a distance to close the show three minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNER: Sting via submission at 15:00. Thanks to editing and a very methodical pace, this wasn't as bad as it came across live on Monday, but the match still shouldn't have happened. They stuck to the tried-and-true Flair sequences and leaned on the usual TNA outside interference to stretch this out to 15 minutes. Hogan doesn't look like he can have a match, so it remains to be seen if that Hogan-Sting match actually happens, even after TNA promoted it at the end of this week's show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2011, 02:07 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 9-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_53349.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TYSON KIDD

Striker noted Kidd is a very confident man and believes he can defeat anyone on the roster. Kidd knocked Zeke down to one knee early on, but then accepted a gorilla press slam from Zeke for a two count. Kidd then took Ezekiel completely off his feet with dropkicks before settling into a reverse chinlock. Zeke escaped, then made his comeback, and caught Kidd out of the corner in the Torture Rack. Kidd fought momentarily, but tapped out to give Zeke the win.

WINNER: Jackson via submission at 3:04. What happened to monster wrestlers never leaving their feet? Granted, Kidd is a credible opponent, in theory, but you'd like to see a return to big-men not being taken off their feet in short matches.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. MIKE PALMER

Striker noted Vickie Guerrero might be interested in obtaining Clay's services and Vickie could stand to take over as COO if Triple H loses. Striker suggested someone not signed to WWE could replace Hunter, or even Michael Cole. Korpela asked if Mr. McMahon would be allowed to come back, which drew silence from Striker. Meanwhile, Clay was destroying Palmer. Clay had the pin at 1:15, but pulled off a pin. Clay then went into his finishing sequence culminating with the high cross-body splash - the Fall of Humanity - for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:38. There's a big-man not leaving his feet. More solid build-up for Clay ahead of his main roster return at some point this year.

3 -- THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. TRENT BARRETA & JOHNNY CURTIS

Barreta started things off for his team, which led to running commentary from Curtis complaining about Barreta's attack. Curtis then took matters into his own hands, tagging into the match. Suddenly, Striker called the person who greenlit NXT a genius. He defended his point that NXT has produced several stars over the past five seasons. Curtis and Barreta continued to struggle to work together as a unit, leading to the match breaking down and Curtis eating a superkick on the floor. In the ring, Barreta wanted a top-rope move, but Jimmy side-stepped him. Jey then tagged in for a Superfly Splash on Barreta for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Usos at 5:12. Usos back in the Tag Title hunt (even if they were invisible on NXT and Superstars this week) and Curtis actually showed some personality in this match. Fine tag match.

4 -- ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Stanford noted Ryder won the match-up a few weeks ago and McIntyre is even more incensed due to Ryder's higher profile on Raw as of late. The two men went back and forth early on before Ryder nailed the Broski Boot in the corner. Ryder wanted the Rough Ryder, but Mac slipped to the outside to stay alive. Mac pounded the announce table, then ripped off the cover out of frustration as they cut to break.

Back from break, McIntyre was in control in the ring. Ryder tried a quick roll-up, but Mac escaped and became even more upset, leading to more punishment for Ryder. Mac still couldn't put Ryder away and tried using the ropes for additional leverage on a pin attempt, but Ryder still kicked out. Mac called for the end, but Ryder fought back until Mac landed a knee to the gut. Two count only, then Mac pounded on Ryder from the mounted position, drawing a reprimand from the ref.

The two men traded quick pin attempts, drawing Mac's ire again. Mac had enough and wanted Future Shock, but Ryder slipped out and nailed the Rough Ryder. It was good for the pin and the win. Afterward, Mac slipped out of the ring and sold frustration with another loss as Ryder celebrated on the way out of the ring. After a replay of the finish, they showed Ryder celebrating some more whole Mac pounded the mat in frustration. A kick to the ring steps closed out the show.

WINNER: Ryder at 12:35. Another solid match between these two. McIntyre is in a holding pattern selling frustration every single time he's in the ring while WWE effectively played up Ryder as a resilient, underdog babyface.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 19 2011, 02:09 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_53372.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SIN CARA vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Sin Cara got booed pretty good coming out; I wonder how much of that is post-production. Fans will still want to cheer him, I would think, given his style. During his entrance, they showed his attacks on Daniel Bryan. The announcers were shown on camera as Bryan came out. He whipped Cara into the turnbuckle to start, then connected on a running dropkick. He took Cara down and pounded on him, then gave Cara a European uppercut. Cara flipped over the top turnbuckle, but Bryan sent him to the floor. Back in the ring, Cara cut off a probable Suicide Dive attempt with a dropkick to Bryan’s legs. Cole and Booker were putting over the new aggressiveness of Sin Cara. Let’s remember that for later. Cara propelled Bryan out of the ring and Bryan came up holding his knee. They went to break at 1:57.

Back at 5:52. Cara had Bryan in a leg-lock, which Bryan fought out of with right hands. Cara kicked Bryan in the leg again, then dropkicked him in the head. Springboard headbutt by Cara. Cara tried a springboard moonsault, but Bryan got his feet up. Not his knees…his feet. It looked good. Hard shot to the face of Cara as Bryan showed some viciousness of his own. Cover for two. Kicks to the chest of Cara in the corner, but Cara crotched Bryan. Bryan got caught in the Tree of Woe. Cara kept going after Bryan, even after the ref’s count, so Cara got disqualified.

WINNER: Bryan, via DQ, at 8:55. Solid match as you'd expect between the two, with the more physical nature as an added dimension.

Running dropkick in the corner by Cara, and as that happened his theme music played. The second Sin Cara (the original) came out. He threw his robe down in anger and pointed at Cara in the ring. Cole said he didn’t get it. Second Cara made the dive into the ring and faced off with the heel Cara. Like Highlander, Cole said there can only be one…Sin Cara. When they faced off, you could tell Hunico was so much bigger to the point that it makes the announcers look bad for not noticing. Both Caras raised their arms for reactions and the heel got the heel reaction of course. It looked like they were going to come to blows, but heel Cara just walked off. Cole asked who was who. Okay…so Cole and Booker talked about loving the aggressiveness of the new Sin Cara during the match, when he ended up being the heel. So why put him over as a babyface like that? It makes the real (face) Sin Cara seem less aggressive by comparison, and what babyface wants to be known as not aggressive?

2 – AJ vs. BETH PHOENIX

Kaitlyn was with AJ and whatever she was wearing was not real flattering. AJ slipped out of the corner and Trish kicked Beth in the leg. AJ went for a bulldog, but Beth stopped her and suplexed her. Press slam by Beth, and she even lifted her up and down over her head. AJ fought back and kicked Beth in the face. Beth kicked AJ in the chest as a reply, then beat AJ with the Glam Slam.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 1:24. AJ actually got more offense than I expected.

3 – WADE BARRETT & CHRISTIAN vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL & SHEAMUS

I think Gabriel’s music is different. Before the match started, Sheamus got the mic and offered some pleasantries. He said he couldn’t say anything nice about Christian, because his face reminds him of a horse’s arse. He said Barrett’s like a sack of cow manure, only half as useful. Sheamus did a rhyme about why he chose Gabriel as his partner saying he couldn’t find the Ax or the Smasher, so he got him the 450 splasher.

Match began just shy of the beginning of the second hour. Barrett blocked a drop-toe hold, but Gabriel came back with another one, this time successfully. Back leg-sweep by Gabriel for a one-count. Barrett took Gabriel to the apron and there seemed to be some bad timing as Gabriel missed a springboard and Barrett landed a side slam (which Booker credited to Big Bubba Rogers). Christian tagged in and Gabriel got a small package for two. Clothesline right after got two. Barrett came back in and put the boots to Gabriel in the corner. Suplex blocked and Barrett was rolled up for two. Rest-hold applied just after three minutes in. Gabriel worked out with elbows and kicked Barrett in the legs. Barrett tossed Gabriel in the air, and he landed chest-first on the mat. Christian came in again and took over on offense, and even whipped him into the buckle. The heels were firmly in control when they went to break at 4:34.

Back at 8:04 of the match and Gabriel was still being beaten down. Barrett with a straight kick to the head, then Christian tagged in. He missed a charge and Gabriel took Christian down. Somehow, that took ALL of the energy out of Christian and both men made tags at 9:17. Sheamus slammed Barrett down gave him a knee-lift. Christian stopped Sheamus on the top rope by grabbing his foot. Sheamus headbutted Barrett off the top and landed a diving shoulder tackle. Celtic Cross on Christian, but he countered and Sheamus clotheslined Christian over the top. Barrett tried Wasteland, but Sheamus got off and hit the Brogue Kick. Gabriel tagged in and hit the 450 splash for the win.

WINNERS: Sheamus and Gabriel, at 10:37. The work on Gabriel got a little tedious, but otherwise solid.

4 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater tried to stick and run, but didn’t really get the “run” part down. Big forearm by Khali sent Slater to the mat. At the :30 mark, Jinder Mahal walked down with a mic and yelled at Khali in another language. He was very intense. Mahal came to ringside and Slater tried to attack from behind. Khali grabbed him by the throat and Mahal ran in to help for the DQ.

WINNER: Khali, via DQ, at 1:09. More of an angle than a match.

Khali took out both Slater and Mahal, but Slater ran interference so Mahal could avoid the Tree Slam. Instead, Slater took one as Mahal watched from ringside.

5 – EVAN BOURNE vs. R-TRUTH

Miz went to ringside to do guest commentary, as did Kofi Kingston. The fight went to the outside immediately and back inside, Truth went for a cover. It’s gonna be another one of those “guys arguing on commentary takes precedence over the match.” Truth got Bourne up for a suplex, but Bourne used the knee to get out of it. Bourne nailed Truth with some body shots with his leg. Face-plant by Bourne with his legs. Bourne landed on his feet when Truth moved on a 450 splash, but Truth kicked Bourne and hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Truth, at 1:54. Was the show running long? Truth was just in the main events, but it’s awfully quick for a tag champ to lose in singles competition.

Show ended with 'The Cutting Edge' with Mark Henry and Randy Orton. At the end of it all, Henry took out a bunch of jobbers and Orton.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 20 2011, 01:58 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53457.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- SHEAMUS & JUSTIN GABRIEL & WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE vs. CHRISTIAN & WADE BARRETT & DAVID OTUNGA & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

The heels quickly isolated Bourne to deliver some offense as the announcers bantered back-and-forth about Miz and Truth's DQ loss last night and what the repercussions will be. Lawler said he heard they were fired. Ross noted Christian is looking for another World Title opportunity and Cole and Lawler said they disagree. Otunga lost control for the heels and Sheamus hot-tagged into the match. Sheamus cleaned house before dropping Otunga with the Irish Curse backbreaker. The pin was broken up, leading to chaos in the ring. Kofi with a high cross-body on Barrett, then Sheamus called for the end on Otunga. Christian provided a distraction, though, but Otunga still walked into the Brogue Kick. Sheamus could have made the pin, but posed for the crowd before calling for the end. The other disappeared at this point, except for Christian watching in the background, as Sheamus delivered the Celtic Cross to Otunga for the pin and the win. Post-match, Sheamus locked eyes with Christian to keep their program in the spotlight. After a replay of the finish, the faces celebrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Sheamus at 4:40. More build-up for Sheamus on Raw. Strong showcase for him, some focus on the Sheamus-Christian Smackdown program, and everyone else seemed to be background players.

2 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN MORRISON

Actually, there is more they could do to make Morrison look like a lower-card wrestler, as he tapped out to the cross arm-breaker in 50 seconds. Del Rio kept the hold locked on for some extra pain to display his current frustration after the title loss last night. Del Rio added a kick to the back for good measure. Lawler tried to cover for Morrison that he was caught off-guard by Del Rio's onslaught. Del Rio stomped out of the ring with Ricardo.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 0:50. Nothing WWE does with Morrison is surprising anymore, but that was interesting. As for Del Rio, this is what they should have been doing with him as WWE champion: picking up decisive victories and looking like a strong, credible champion.

In-ring: Sin Cara's music played as Cole called the events on Friday's Smackdown one of the most bizarre things he's ever seen. What appeared to be the real Sin Cara came out for a match as Lawler and Cole tried to figure out what the real Sin Cara looks like. IC champion Cody Rhodes was out next, flanked by the baggers.

Before the match started, Sin Cara's music played again. Sin Cara looked around the arena selling befuddlement before the other Sin Cara came out on-stage. The announcers changed their stance on which one is the original. Ross framed the crowd's silence for being confused on what's going on. The two then played to the crowd for the loudest cheers. Suddenly, a Lucha match broke to in the middle of the ring. Flips. Dives. A dropkick sent one Sin Cara to the outside, then the other Sin Cara did a backflip and posed in the ring. Sin Cara's music played again and Ross said they don't know why there's to Sin Caras, but they hope to have answers.

3 -- Intercontinental champion CODY RHODES vs. SIN CARA -- non-title match

Match Never Started.

3 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE vs. DIVAS OF DOOM (BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA)

Divas champion Kelly Kelly's music brought out Kelly and Eve for a Divas tag match. Beth Phoenix and Natalya then came out as their opponents, re-starting the Divas Title feud after Kelly retained over Beth last night. Kelly started things off, then Eve was isolated by the heels. Eve suddenly scored a roll-up on Natalya for the pin, frustrating Beth and Natalya again.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 1:42.

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Hugh Jackman) -- non-title match

Ryder scored a quick two-count on an early roll-up that frightened Ziggler. The fans chanted, "Let's Go Ryder," as Jackman encouraged louder chants from ringside. Ziggler then caught Ryder in the corner and began working him over. Cole continued to heel on Ryder and people who watch videos online as Ryder tried to make a comeback. Vickei then slapped Ryder across the face and ref Miek Choida, returning from suspension, gave Vickie the boot. Suddenly, Jackman stepped up on the ring apron and absolutely cold-cocked Ziggler behind the ref's back. Ryder then dropped Ziggler with the Rough Ryder for the pin and the win. Post-match, Ryder and Jackman celebrated in the ring as Jackman played to the crowd. They stayed with the celebration for a while before the announcers plugged the main event still to come.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:06. Jackman has a future in wrestling if he wants one. Great energy throughout the show tonight. As for the match, Ryder had to win and Jackman had to give Ziggler his comeuppance, but they couldn't have Ziggler lose clean, so they went with a heel-oriented finish, which is counter-productive in long-run when WWE continues to have faces act like heels (see Bourne and Kofi's blind-tag behind the ref's back last night and other recent examples).

5 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA & C.M. PUNK vs. AWESOME TRUTH (THE MIZ & R-TRUTH)

Cole and Mathews discussed Cena having respect for Punk, even during their heated rivalry over the summer. To start things off, Miz slowly walked up to referee Charles Robinson and shook his hand to apologize. Cena, amused, walked up to Charles to shake his hand, so Miz tried to jump him, but Cena fought him off and tagged in Punk. Meanwhile, Mathews said he wasn't buying Miz and Truth's apology, which generated a defensive response from Cole. Punk tagged in and Truth landed some blows before shouting at the fans chanting, "C-M-Punk." Punk then cut off Truth and aggressively tagged in Cena, who allowed Truth to crawl across the ring to tag in Miz. Miz, back home in Cleveland, circled the ring before locking up with Cena. Miz won the exchange with an implant DDT for a nearfall. Cole then fed to commercial with Cena on the defensive.

Back live, Miz was still working on Cena as an "I (heart) Colt" sign hung over Punk's shoulder as he stood on the ring apron. Miz cut off Cena's comeback attempt before scoring a two count. Miz sold frustration with the ref, so Truth entered the ring to calm down Miz and get him away from ref Charles Robinson. The heels then went back to work on Cena. Mathews did a good job reinforcing Punk's physical condition after the "war" with Triple H last night, then Cole noted Punk only has two weeks to heal before Hell in a Cell. Miz did his boxing routine dancing around the ring in-between landing left jabs. Cena then fought back, per Punk's encouragement, but Truth cut off Cena before Cena could make a tag.

Miz sold that he's a good wrestler, taking a pass on an opportunity to strike Cena while Truth had the ref occupied. The heels then went back to work exchanging tags as they continued to wear down Cena. Miz then lost focus trash-talking Punk, allowing Cena to land offense, but Miz came right back with a knock-down clothesline. Miz then stalked Cena for a charging clothesline, but Cena moved and made the tag to Punk.

Punk landed clotheslines on Miz, then a dropkick, before dropping Truth with a suplex. Punk caught Miz with a signature high-knee and running bulldog followed by a springboard clothesline. Punk called for the G2S, but Miz avoided. Punk then dropkicked Miz into Truth and Miz rebounded into Punk, who delivered the Go 2 Sleep. Punk made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Cena and Punk at 13:11. Strong TV main event. Good showcase for Miz and Truth in control for most of the match before Punk looked strong heading into Hell in a Cell, which, along with Del Rio looking strong tonight, gives Cena the "stacked deck" on the PPV in two weeks. (**)

Post-match: Cena came in right behind Punk, almost teasing the AA, but Cena simply accepted his WWE Title belt before emphatically raising Punk's hand. Suddenly, Triple H's music played and Punk and Cena held their ground in the ring. Hunter stood on-stage and half-apologized for breaking up the celebration. Hunter told Punk good match. He then told Miz and Truth: "You're fired," before turning right back around and leaving. Miz sold bewilderment. Cole was beside himself on commentary. The crowd shrieked and cheered before Miz and Truth collected themselves and ran backstage.

Backstage, the locker room was shown sitting down watching the happenings on monitors. Some wrestlers showed they were questioning Hunter's decision. Triple H walked backstage and Scott Stanford tried to get a word with Hunter, who was then jumped by Miz and Truth. The locker room separated everyone, then Hunter sent Miz and Truth flying out of the building. After they were kicked out of the building, Hunter was shown storming back inside the building, shoving wrestlers aside. He walked past Laurinaitis, who stood to the side as Hunter kept walking. They faded out with a shot of Hunter still walking down the hallway.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 22 2011, 01:22 pm
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 9-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53519.shtml) Condensed here as always to in-ring results only.

1 -- A.J. vs. MAXINE

Still no word on Hornswoggle's whereabouts. The announcers said wrestlers have to leave their personal business in the background when competing in WWE, so A.J. needs to ignore Swoggle's situation. So, he's been "missing" for seven days and no one seems to care? Classic NXT storyline. Regal engaged the viewers with a monologue as Korpela seemed to be intently listening to Regal. Maxine lost control of the match and A.J. scored some offense, but it wasn't good enough for the win. A Shining Wizard was good enough moments later, though, and A.J. picked up the win, to the delight of the kids in the crowd.

WINNER: A.J. at 5:14. Even-Steven the last two weeks and still no sign of Swoggle.

2 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Tyson Kidd) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Yoshi dominated early on, then Bateman smeared Yoshi's facepaint on Yoshi's chest to try to get in his head. It only intensified Yoshi's attack, causing Bateman to retreat to the outside. Yoshi followed up and ripped off a series of chops, but Bateman ducked a final chop and crotched Yoshi into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Bateman wore down Yoshi as Kidd shouted encouragement from ringside. Bateman struggled to apply an abdominal stretch, then Yoshi countered it and Bateman found himself on the floor again. Back in the ring, Bateman accepted another round of chops followed by a corner boot. Yoshi followed with a running roundhouse kick, but Bateman kicked out of a pin attempt. Yoshi then went up top and landed a cross-body splash for another two count. Yoshi tried another pin following a big martial arts kick, but Kidd broke up the pin, drawing a DQ. The kids shrieked as Kidd attacked Yoshi and put the boots to him.

WINNER: Yoshi via DQ at 6:41.

3 -- TITUS O'NEIL & SHOWTIME PERCY WATSON vs. JTG & DARREN YOUNG

The faces quickly took control of the match, working over Young. Titus displayed his power offense while seemingly toying with Young. More work on Young, who finally drove Titus to the heel corner to bring in Jimmy the Gimmick. Gimmick was quickly dropped with a shoulderbreaker by Titus, then Titus flung No Days Off clear over the top rope to the floor.

Back from break, Regal continued to marvel at Titus flinging Young over the top rope. The faces were still in control of the action, of note. Gimmick decided to bail from the ring again, so Showtime picked him up and threw him back into the ring after Regal asked him to smash his head in. The heels finally cheated to take control at 6:30 and began working over Showtime. It was so unrealistic watching JTG wear down the much larger and more physically imposing Showtime.

At 11:00, Showtime finally reached out and made the tag to Titus, who cleaned house. The action broke down moments later and Showtime went flying to the outside. JTG was then knocked to the outside. Suddenly, Young clipped Titus and set up for a gutbuster across his knee. Young made the cover and it was good for the win. Post-match: Young and JTG celebrated the victory before the Usos stormed the ring and took out the victors. The Usos then went to opposite corners and delivered dual Superfly splashes. Cue up the Usos's theme music and Regal called them future tag champions to close out this week's NXT.

WINNERS: Young & JTG at 11:56. Why are the Usos on NXT again? Where's Striker to get an interview? When is this show going to end? Multiple Choice - are they waiting for Maryse to return, the end of the year, NXT to return to television, or all of the Pros to be released?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 23 2011, 08:26 am
Hugh Jackman’s Mighty Fist Injures Wrestler (http://movies.yahoo.com/blogs/movie-talk/hugh-jackman-mighty-fist-injures-wrestler-192432740.html)

Quote
Let it never be said that Hugh Jackman won't do anything to promote a movie. The star of the upcoming "Real Steel," a futuristic boxing flick opening next month, had a guest appearance on WWE "Raw" on Monday night. And you better believe Hugh came out swinging.
 
Jackman assumed the role of a temporary manager for wrestler Zach Ryder, an underdog who was about to take on the hated Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler appeared to be winning the match against Ryder when Jackman noticed that the ref (Can somebody remind us why they have refs in pro wrestling?) was distracted. So Jackman punched Ziggler right in the kisser. Check out the video from the match. Gotta be the first time a host for the Tony Awards did something so macho.

Boom! Down goes Ziggler, and Ryder wins the match. The Huffington Post points out that the confrontation was certainly staged, but the results may not have been. After the event, Ziggler tweeted that he had a possible fractured jaw thanks to Jackman's vicious punch. Later, Ziggler tweeted that he had a "hairline mandibular fracture."
 
Whether or not that's true is anybody's guess (wrestlers have been known to exaggerate from time to time), the punch certainly looked authentic. And it should, considering the training Jackman went through for his role in "Real Steel." To play a former contender turned trainer, Jackman studied with Olympic gold medal winner and International Boxing Hall of Fame member, Sugar Ray Leonard.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 24 2011, 11:02 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 9-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_53601.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. MISS TESSMACHER

When Tessmacher engaged in "strip-tease behavior," Tenay wondered if Karen would disqualify her. Taz said he was ready to hand her the Knockouts Title. Mickie won clean with a DDT. They hugged afterward.

WINNER: Mickie in 3:00 with a DDT.

2 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. JESSE SORRENSEN -- X Division Title Match

They showed Twitter messages during the match from fans talking about the X Division. Aries mocked Sorrensen by running around ringside with his football in hand. Sorrensen slidekicked him and then dove onto him at ringside at 2:00. Kid Kash then walked to ringside. Aries went for a superplex, but Sorrensen shoved hi to the mat and then hit a top rope crossbody block for a near fall. Kash shoved the football into the chest of Sorrensen. Sorrensen whipped the ball at Kash. Kash jumped onto the ring apron, but the ref blocked him. Aries then dropkicked Sorrensen from behind for the win.

WINNER: Aries in 5:00 to retain the X Division Title.

3 -- BULLY RAY & JERRY LYNN vs. MR. ANDERSON

RVD was unable to wrestle due to the backstage attack, so this become a two-on-one match. Ray at ringside shoved Anderson off the top rope at 1:00, then Lynn tagged in Ray legally with Anderson down. Lynn whipped Ray toward Anderson at 3:00, but Anderson moved and Ray went chest-first into the turnbuckles. Anderson countered a Bubba Bomb attempt hit the Mic Check, but Lynn yanked Anderson out of the ring. Anderson whipped Lynn into the ringside steps, then nailed Ray with a flip senton off the top rope. When he made the cover, Lynn climbed to the top rope and dove off toward Anderson. Anderson moved, Lynn hit Ray. Anderson then recovered Ray for a two count. Anderson knocked Lynn off the ring apron, then charged Ray who met him with an elbow. Anderson then lifted Ray onto his shoulders, but Lynn dropkicked him. As the ref ordered Lynn out of the ring, Ray clotheslined Anderson with the chain. Tenay said if it wasn't enough that it's two-on-one, now Ray is using a chain. Tenay stressed Anderson gets a one-on-one match at BFG.

WINNER: Ray & Lynn in 6:00. Well booked two-on-one match in terms of putting heat on the heels and showing Anderson had good fighting spirit.

4 -- KURT ANGLE vs. "COWBOY" JAMES STORM

Jeremy Borash handled the formal ring introductions. He's still the best in the business at that. After a headlock by Storm, he backdropped a charging Angle over the top rope to the floor. He followed him to the floor, but Angle threw him head-first into the ring steps. Taz said that Angle was now "literally in the driver's seat." Angle applied a side headlock. Storm elbowed out of it, but Angle kneed him coming off the ropes to retain control. Angle went on to apply the anklelock at 7:00, but Storm rolled through and scored a leverage two count. Storm them side-stepped a charging Angle, who went shoulder-first into the ringpost. Storm scored another two count on a schoolboy. Storm set up his signature superkick, but Angle blocked it and went into his unreleased German suplex series. The crowd chanted "Angle sucks!" After a third suplex, Angle scored a near fall. Storm blocked a top rope suplex attempt by Angle, then landed an elbow off the top rope for a near fall. Storm then lifted Angle for an Eye of the Storm (Razor's Edge), at which point Gunner ran out. Angle gave a distracted Storm an Angle Slam for a believable near fall. "Can you believe it?" exclaimed Tenay. Storm went for a superkick, but Angle moved and the ref took the kick. Storm then superkicked Angle. The fans counted well past three. Another ref slid in to make the count, but Gunner yanked him to the floor. Gunner than hit Storm with Angle's championship belt. As Kaz punched away at Storm, Roode ran out and made the save. With Storm, Angle, and the ref all down, Roode picked up the world championship belt and looked at it longingly. He held it in the air in front of Angle. The Beer Money music played as Roode delicately placed the belt down in front of Angle.

WINNER: No contest in 12:00.

STAR RATING: **3/4
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 24 2011, 11:02 am
WWE Superstars Results: 9-22-11

There are no results courtesy of  PWTorch.com (direct link to complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_53626.shtml) because Superstars is no longer on.

At least for now, WWE has discontinued airing the weekly Superstars show online due to low traffic. The show will continue to be taped for international distribution as part of WWE's international TV contracts. After a two-year run on WGN, the show was moved to WWE's website on Thursdays, but WWE has not released this week's episode and has removed virtually all references to Superstars on their website. The show will be kept alive for international distribution, but WWE said in their most-recent conference call with investors they would like to find a new TV home for Superstars by the end of the year. If not, the show will likely return on the WWE TV Network in 2012.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 26 2011, 05:00 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-23-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_53631.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – HEATH SLATER vs. SHEAMUS

No entrance for Slater, but it makes sense if he was out there in the opening segment. Josh Mathews, Cole, and Booker T. were shown on camera during Sheamus’ entrance. Cole joked that this match was like the girl from Wendy’s vs. Ronald McDonald. He said someone Tweeted him that earlier. It was all Sheamus early on, as he connected on many of his pet moves, including the forearms across the chest and the running knee to the face with Slater in the ropes. Slater attempted a comeback at 1:51 of the match, and landed a swinging neck-breaker for only one. He went on offense for an extended time, but Slater’s mistake was allowing Sheamus to get back to his feet. High knee, flying shoulder-tackle, then a Brogue Kick for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 4:31. Slater actually got more offense than I expected. A step up from some of his recent past squashes.

2 – WADE BARRETT vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

Cole noted the contrast of styles at play in this match. Barrett was very aggressive to start, sending Gabriel to ringside with a big boot. Gabriel came back with a headscissors that took Barrett to the outside. Gabriel dove over the top and flipped onto Barrett. Springboard moonsault for two by Gabriel. Back elbow by Barrett, by Gabriel came back with an STO. Gabriel went to the top, but Barrett booted him down. Wasteland and it was over.

WINNER: Barrett, at 2:34. I don’t understand how Slater lasted longer against Sheamus than Gabriel against Barrett. I thought Gabriel may have been in for a mini-push. I was sure we were going to see an ad break during this one.

3 – AJ & KAITLYN vs. NATALYA & BETH PHOENIX

Kaitlyn was suckered in by Nattie, who choked Kaitlyn in the ropes. Cheap shot by Beth. Beth tagged in and she and Nattie took Kaitlyn down with a double suplex. Headbutts to the gut created separation by Kaitlyn. AJ then tagged in and avoided a Beth charge. Running clothesline by AJ, then a dropkick to the leg of Beth. Shining Wizard and a pin was broken up by Nattie. Kaitlyn took her out, but Beth countered AJ and landed the Glam Slam.

WINNERS: Natalya and Phoenix, at 2:03. When a Diva needs a victory, AJ and Kaitlyn seem to be the go-to duo to get it done. They also seem to be the only ones Beth and Natalya can beat.

4 – RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES

Cody was, of course, flanked by his bag man. They showed clips of Rhodes beating Orton on Raw Supershow two weeks ago. Rhodes was immediately thrown to the outside, but Rhodes took over by going to the injured knee of Orton. Orton regained control in the ring, but again, Rhodes went after the knee. I’m sure Booker will tell us what bone that’s connected to. Rhodes took Booker down and wrapped the injured knee across the ring post. Rhodes then removed the turnbuckle pad from the turnbuckle. Referee John Cone audibly admonished Rhodes and put the pad back on. Rhodes took his mask off and belted Orton across the face with it. Cover only got two. The ref ordered that Rhodes put the mask back on. He did so and went to kick Orton, but Orton caught the leg. He took Rhodes’ mask off and hit him with it, drawing a disqualification.

WINNER: Rhodes, via DQ, at 3:17. Another match that went much shorter than I expected.

Orton continued beating Rhodes with the mask. Orton connected on his trademark DDT. Another referee came out to try to talk some sense into Orton. Orton picked Rhodes back up and tossed him to ringside. Orton went out and grabbed the ring bell. He rang it several times then assaulted Rhodes with it. Orton began to dismantle the announce table. Rhodes was bleeding but had a towel with him. Orton gave Rhodes an RKO on the announce table…and it didn’t break. Rhodes must have been bleeding a lot (they never really showed it), because it was all over Orton. Upon replay, you could see Cody gushing right after Orton hit him with the bell.

5 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. JINDER MAHAL

Khali was back to his happy fun smile-time Khali music. During Mahal’s entrance, they showed what happened last week when Mahal interfered during Khali’s match. Mahal went after Khali, but Khali took Mahal down with a shot to the head. Hard chop to the chest in the corner by Khali. Mahal escaped more of Khali’s wrath by sliding under the bottom rope. Back in, a kick to the knee and a DDT got Mahal a two-count on a pin. Front face-lock by Mahal. Khali broke free and clotheslined Mahal a few times. Right hand to Mahal’s noggin. Big Tree Slam by Khali, and in a frightening moment, he almost fell forward onto Mahal. He put his foot on Mahal’s chest for the win.

WINNER: Khali, at 2:06. That felt like a write-off for Mahal. And no, I’m not talking about I.R.S’ finisher.

6 – SIN CARA vs. DANIEL BRYAN

This appeared to be the Mistico Sin Cara. Cole said the WWE Universe is split 50/50, based on a WWE.com vote, as to which is the real Sin Cara. They also showed clips of last week’s Smackdown and this week’s Raw, as it pertains to the Sin Cara face-offs. The two men shook hands to start, then Bryan took Cara down with a headlock take-over. Bryan bridged out of a headscissors, then put Cara up in a surfboard. Back and forth action, then a springboard cross-body. Booker again gave the “mark on the black boot” speech and said this was the Cara in his Fave Five. Mathews pointed out that Booker said the fake one had the black mark last week. Handspring elbow by Cara which seemed to fall short. Cara jumped off the apron and took Bryan down with a hurricanrana. As Cara went ot the top rope, the fake Sin Cara ran out and pushed the other to ringside. The second Sin Cara went off the top and landed a Swanton Bomb for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 3:07. That was like a messed up version of the Bellas’ Twin Magic.

7 – AIR BOOM vs. THE USOS

A shake of the hands by one of the Usos and Evan to start things. Some early double-teaming by Jimmy and Jey, and some quick tags to go with it. Sledge across the chest of Evan as he laid across the knee of the other. Butt splash in the corner followed. Rear chinlock by Uso as Kofi tried to get the fans behind them. Bourne quickened the pace to break free and both men were down. Usos made the tag, as did Bourne at 2:10. Kingston hit his signature moves, including a cross-body off the top. Trouble in Paradise, but a distraction led to the legal Uso nailing Kofi with a superkick for two. Kofi countered another double-team move into…something that took one of the Usos out. Trouble in Paradise, then the Shooting Star Press by Bourne.

WINNERS: Air Boom, at 3:32. I’d like to see a long-form feud between these two teams. With Miz and Truth out of the picture so quickly, Air Boom could use some quality opponents.

8 – CHRISTIAN vs. MARK HENRY – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Cole said this is a “statement match” for Henry. Henry took Christian down right off the tie-up. Rear waist-lock by Christian, but Henry simply backed Christian into the corner. Chest-first into the buckle went Christian. Christian dodged a clothesline, but Henry grabbed him and threw Christian over the top. Ezekiel Jackson, one of the superstars Christian approached backstage, waved off the Lumberjacks near him…only to knee Christian in the mid-section himself. Back in, Henry applied a nerve hold. Christian created some separation and tried to springboard off the second rope, but landed right in the arms of Henry for a bear-hug. Henry released the move and missed a corner charge. Right hands from Christian, but a clothesline did nothing. A second, still nothing. Dropkick off the second rope caused Henry to teeter, and a dropkick off the top finally felled the big man at 4:25 of the match. Christian went for the Killswitch, to no avail. Henry clobbered Christian for two. Christian attempted a springboard sunset flip, but Henry missed a butt drop. The fight went to the outside, where Christian was pulled out. The entire roster of superstars went after Henry, and he managed to shrug them off. He picked Trent Barreta over his head and tossed him onto a host of other wrestlers. Great Khali was left standing on one side and the crowd chanted for him, but it was not to be. Christian tried to leave, but Sheamus grabbed him, tossed him into the ring, and Henry gave him the World’s Strongest Slam.

WINNER: Henry, at 6:21.

Randy Orton ran out to get him some of Henry. They exchanged blows in the ring. RKO attempt failed, but Orton dropkicked Henry out of the ring. Orton’s music played as he stared at Henry from the ring. At ringside, Henry held the title over his head.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 26 2011, 05:19 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 9-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_53658.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Due to coincidental timing being in San Antonio this weekend, I was able to review the debut episode of ROH's syndicated TV series under the Sinclair Broadcasting banner. ROH TV airs at 9:00 p.m. CST on Saturday nights on the MyNetworkTV affiliate in S.A.

1 -- FUTURE SHOCK (KYLE O'REILLY & ADAM COLE) vs. THE BRAVADO BROTHERS

After ring introductions and a look at the Tale of the Tape to add more color to the match-up, Nigel discussed each team's background and what they bring to the table. The match started with some multiple-man spots trying to get the crowd involved early on. Kelly noted the audience will learn a little more about ROH each week with various "Inside ROH" features. Mid-match, Kelly introduced a "Tweet of the Week" that was obviously selected to brand ROH as the 2011 version of pro wrestling, not 1990s mainstream wrestling. A professional-looking graphic accompanied the Twitter reference, as well.

The crowd quieted down as the teams went through a sequence of overly-choreographed moves. They reinvested when Future Shock "won" the sequence before splashing the Bravados on the floor. Back in the ring, Future Shock executed a double-team sequence for the pin and the win. They went to a replay of the finish before showing the two team adhering to the Code of Honor with a post-match handshake.

WINNERS: Future Shock at 7:25. Good opening match to begin the Sinclair Era and establish Future Shock as a top tag team in the promotion.

The second-half of the show started with clips from Best in the World 2011 showcasing a four-team elimination match for the ROH Tag Titles that concluded with Haas & Benjamin retaining the ROH Tag Titles with a final pinfall over Kings of Wrestling. This was followed by the Briscoes KO'ing the tag champions as the Kings just watched.

2 -- ROH tag champions CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. KINGS OF WRESTLING (CHRIS HERO & CLAUDIO CASTAGNOLI w/Shane Hagadorn and Sara Del Rey) -- ROH Tag Title match

Back from break, Kelly noted there was no Code of Honor since the teams dislike each other so much. After the bell sounded, they cut to a Tale of the Tape to compare the two teams. Basic feeling-out process to begin the match, then a stalemate leading to the final commercial break. Kelly did a solid job stressing the importance of staying tuned after a two-minute commercial.

Back from break, the Kings worked over Shelton to frustrate Haas, who begged for a tag. Haas eventually took a hot tag and scored a nearfall on Claudio. Nigel called for Haas to finish off Claudio, but a big boot couldn't put Claudio away. The two teams went back to trading offense before Haas and Shelton finished off Hero with World's Greatest Finisher. After a replay, Kelly said the Briscoes await the tag champs. The show concluded with the champs celebrating the victory.

WINNERS: Haas & Benjamin at 15:28 to retain the ROH Tag Titles. Solid main event not trying to be a five-star match, but giving newer viewers a very nice sample of what ROH offers in the ring and in their tag division, which was stressed this week.

Next week: TV champion El Generico vs. Jay Lethal.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 27 2011, 02:11 pm
WWE RAW Results: 9-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53690.shtml) Condensed mostly to in-ring results, natch.

- Triple H started the show, explained why he fired R-Truth and The Miz, fined Mark Henry $250k and had three wrestlers whine about unfair life is in the WWE...

1 -- IC TITLE MATCH BATTLE ROYAL

Rhodes, Daniel Bryan, Sin Cara, Ezekiel Jackson, Morrison, Gabriel, Riley, DiBiase, Sheamus, and McIntyre in the ring here. Mac was gone in 18 seconds after Rhodes bailed from the ring. Suddenly, the other Sin Cara yanked the other one out of the ring and Bryan tossed him out of the ring. Rhodes re-entered the ring and DiBiase quickly went after his rival. The big men and Rhodes were eventually left in the ring after clearing out the mid-sized wrestlers. It was Sheamus, Zeke, DiBiase, and Rhodes in the Final Four. Sheamus took Zeke apart, then Rhodes eliminated DiBiase. Cody was nearly eliminated, but Cody yanked Zeke over the top rope. So, it was Sheamus vs. Rhodes. The crowd rallied behind Sheamus, who teased the Celtic Cross, but Christian came down to ringside to distract Sheamus. Sheamus was nearly eliminated, but avoided a mask shot from Rhodes. Christian distracted Sheamus again, though, and Rhodes smashed Sheamus with the mask to eliminate him for the win.

Post-match: Cole heeled on Triple H's decision-making before Christian rammed Sheamus into the ringpost. He screamed down at Sheamus to see how it feels to be cost a title in WWE, blaming Sheamus for costing him the World Title on Smackdown. Sheamus sold a left shoulder injury as Christian walked away. The announcers then plugged Del Rio vs. Punk tonight.

WINNER: Rhodes at 4:33 to retain the IC Title.

2 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY & EVE vs. BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA

Standard match with Eve being worked over, Kelly with the hot tag, a close fall for Kelly, but Beth finished her off with the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNERS: Beth & Natalya at 3:15. Beth needed a victory to retain credibility, so this was fine to keep her in the title picture without Kelly having to take a singles loss.

World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. GREAT KHALI -- non-title match

In-ring: Henry was in the ring back from break before Great Khali's music hit. Odd not seeing anyone accompany Khali, who gingerly made his way to the ring as Henry stewed in the ring. Khali turned his back to pose for the crowd, allowing Henry to jump him from behind. Henry talked trash before delivering the World's Strongest Slam to Khali. Henry, satisfied with his work, left the ring and talked trash to the fans ringside.

WINNER: No Match. More solid build-up for Henry - giving him a "feat of strength" bodyslamming Khali - in advance of his title defense against Orton at HIAC.

- Cena hyped up Hell in a Cell, Del Rio and C.M. Punk were guest commentators (Punk complete with announcer's jacket). Yep, you know where this was going to go...

3 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. CHRISTIAN -- non-title match

Cena was quickly on the offensive with a high back-body drop. Christian then cut off Cena when Cena distracted himself with the men ringside. Del Rio and Punk went back-and-forth on commentary promoting their match before Cena made his comeback in the ring. Suddenly, Christian bailed to the outside and Cena shoved him over the announce table. Del Rio cheap-shotted Punk in the chaos before Cena brought Christian back into the ring. Del Rio also entered the ring and popped Cena with an enziguiri for the DQ.

Post-match: Punk chased Del Rio out of the ring. Del Rio then took a mic on-stage and told everyone he's the only one coming out of Hell in a Cell alive. He told off everyone, then dropped the mic. Cena and Punk stood their ground in the ring before the announcers plugged Del Rio vs. Punk still to come tonight.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 3:15. Just not much here. Del Rio and Punk had a forced exchange on commentary and the match was thrown out there to give Del Rio and Punk a forum to argue.

4 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jack Swagger) vs. ZACK RYDER -- U.S. Title match

After the video rolled to bring the audience up-to-speed on Ryder, the bell sounded and Ziggler quickly took out his frustration on Ryder. Ziggler worked over Ryder as the announcers bickered, with Cole trying to start drama with Ross. Ryder then made a comeback and teased the Rough Ryder, but Swagger yanked Ryder throat-first across the top rope as Vickie had the ref distracted. Swagger actually helping Ziggler led to the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 2:01 to retain the U.S. Title.

Post-match: Ziggler and Vickie celebrated the U.S. Title victory before Ziggler and Swagger shook hands, showing they're on the same team. Vickie instructed them to inflict more punishment on Ryder, but Air Boom stormed the ring to make the save. As the dust settled, Smackdown GM Teddy Long came out on-stage. He said they're going to have themselves a six-man tag match after the break, giving Vickie three minutes to find someone as their partner. Long said if Vickie can't find someone else, then it will be a handicap match. After protesting with screams & shrieks, Vickie ran to the back as they cut to break.

5 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER & WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) -- handicap match

The announcers said Bourne is reading a book on longevity and he wants to live until he's 150 years-old. Why did he get into the wrestling business, then? The heels isolated Bourne as Cole decided to heel on Ryder's YouTube show to fill time. Bourne broke free of Swagger at 3:15 and hot-tagged Kofi, who dropped "Swags," according to Booker, with a high cross-body before delivering ten punches in the corner.

Suddenly, Vickie emerged on-stage with Mason Ryan, who had been working as a face. Ryan hopped on the ring apron to stand next to Ziggler as the faces worked over Swagger. Ryder then tagged in and Swagger took his head off with a clothesline. Swagger walked over to his corner to tag in Ryan, who teased going after Ryder before destroying Swagger and Ziggler. Vickie screamed as Ryan smiled and left the ring. Ziggler was alone in the ring for Ryder to deliver the Rough Ryder. Ryder with the pin as they cut to a shot of Ryan smiling on the entrance ramp.

Post-match: Vickie pointed to Ryan that she'll get him. Vickie screamed as the faces celebrated in the ring. They went to a replay of Ryan turning on his temporary tag partners before showing the finish. Back live, Vickie screamed at Ziggler for screwing up as Swagger just stood his ground. Swagger then helped up Ziggler to drag him to the back.

WINNERS: Ryder & Bourne & Kofi at 6:29. A roundabout way to give Ryder another win over Ziggler and apparently begin a face push for Ryan on Raw after a reintroduction on Superstars.

6 -- C.M. PUNK vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

The match quickly moved to the outside and Punk sent Del Rio flying over the announce table near Cena. Ross called it a brushback pitch like in baseball. Cena stood up to glare at Punk, who saluted him before throwing Del Rio back into the ring. Punk kept his eyes on Cena, then returned to the ring and took a wicked kick from Del Rio. Del Rio maintained control of the match as Cena watched quietly and intently following the exchange near the announce table. They cut to break with Punk selling on the floor on the opposite side of the ring.

Back live, they showed Punk fighting out of a reverse chinlock mid-ring. Cena was still intently watching the monitor as Del Rio maintained control of Punk. Suddenly, Del Rio went flying to the outside after missing with a dropkick. Ross effectively noted that's not possible inside HIAC on Sunday since there's nowhere to run or hide. Back in the ring, Del Rio walked into a dropkick from Punk for a two count. Cena stressed the importance of this match to build momentum for Sunday as the two men went back-and-forth with close nearfalls before Del Rio resumed control.

As Raw hit the top of the hour, Del Rio went for the cross arm-breaker, but Punk blasted him with a kick strike to the side of the head. Punk made the cover and it was good for the win, seemingly out of nowhere based on the sequence of the match.

WINNER: Punk at 12:01.

Post-match: The Cell started to lower from the ceiling. Cena got up from the announce table and dragged Ricardo inside the structure. Ricardo tried to escape, but he took a G2S, then AA from Punk and Cena, respectively. Punk then tried a G2S on Cena, but Cena slipped out and tried an AA, but Punk slipped out. Suddenly, Del Rio blasted both men with a chair shot from behind. Del Rio continued to take apart the faces with chair shot blows as the announcers stressed Del Rio is back on-track after losing the WWE Title at Night of Champions. Del Rio's music played as he stared down both men and talked trash. The camera stayed on a close shot of Del Rio as a graphic for HIAC this Sunday flashed on the screen. It was followed by the copyrights as Del Rio continued to talk trash to close the show three minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on September 29 2011, 10:43 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 9-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53732.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. JINDER MAHAL

Korpela added some context to the match that Mahal defeated Yoshi in two minutes in his first WWE TV match. Mahal controlled the action and the crowd figured out Yoshi was the face, so they rallied behind him. Regal cracked a joke that he knows Mahal's uncle, who is a Karaoke champion named "Getupto Singh." Mahal continued an aggressive attack before taking Yoshi up top for a superplex, but Yoshi blocked and airballed a spin kick from the top rope. Mahal called for the end and delivered an emphatic slam out of the full nelson position for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Mahal at 6:09. Unless Mahal is going to become a regular on NXT, it's questionable for Yoshi to take the loss here. Of course, this is NXT.

2 -- PERCY WATSON vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd completely dominated early on with aggressive kick strikes and submission holds. "C'mon, ask him!" Kidd shouted toward the ref. Watson made a comeback as Regal noted Watson could be a big deal in WWE if someone took him under his or her wing. Moments later, Watson lost control and Kidd nailed a springboard elbow drop clear across the ring for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kidd at 3:53. Impressive win for Kidd, if matters on NXT.

3 -- THE USOS vs. DARREN YOUNG & JTG

At the beginning of the match, Korpela brought up JTG being part of a "successful tag team" earlier in his career, and added an interesting point that they never held tag titles in WWE. Regal was surprised and Korpela said most people believe they held tag gold before. JTG and Young took control of the match going to break.

Back from break, JTG and Young retained control of the match. Jimmy fought back and tried to shake off the heel team's work on his back, but Young rammed him into the ringpost to focus on the back again. Jimmy eventually scored with a Samoan Drop to break free and make the hot tag to Jey. After a nearfall in Jey's favor, the action broke down. Young tried to put away Jey with his gutbuster, but Jey blocked, superkicked him, and tagged in Jimmy for the Superfly Splash. It was good for the pin on Young for the win.

WINNERS: Usos at 11:37. Even-Steven match booking with Young & JTG dominating before the Usos picked up the win. Usos back on track.

Post-match: Out of nowhere, Tyler Reks and Curt Hawkins stormed the ringside area to drop the Usos. Korpela said the tag division is exploding on NXT and you can't take your eyes off the ball. Hawkins and Reks backed away from the Usos with cocky smiles to conclude the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 01 2011, 12:53 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 9-30-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' comlete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_53843.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MARK HENRY vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Oh joy, I can own Khali’s theme music on the latest WWE record release! Khali went after Henry aggressively to start, knocking him off-balance briefly, but Henry fired back. Clothesline by Khali sent Henry to the mat. Khali cornered Henry and chopped him in the chest. Henry fought back from a knee, but Khali nailed him with two chops, the first one not even knocking him off his feet. A pin attempt only got two at 1:16. Henry lifted Khali off his feet and drove him into the corner. Headbutts by Henry, then a big splash. A second one only registered him a two-count. Khali took Henry by the throat, but Henry kicked Khali in the legs to break it. World’s Strongest Slam for three.

WINNER: Henry, at 2:51. Some impressive power displays by Henry.

Henry went to ringside after the match and grabbed a chair. He re-entered the ring with it and hit Khali and the arm. He set Khali up to Pillmanize the ankle, and did so, splashing the chair. A trainer came in to check on Khali as the big man writhed in pain on the mat. A number of referees joined in as well. They began to put Khali’s ankle in an air cast as Henry left the ringside area.

2 – EVAN BOURNE vs. JACK SWAGGER

They showed highlights of the six-man (or five-man) tag match from this past Monday during Swagger’s entrance. Kofi Kingston came out with Evan, and Vickie Guerrero and Dolph Ziggler both accompanied Swagger to the ring. Swagger went on offense first, and hit a back suplex for a one-count 30 seconds into the match. Bourne fought out of a rest-hold, but Swagger countered Bourne’s high-impact offense by giving him a sidewalk slam. Vader Bomb failed, as Bourne got his feet up. Signature offense by Bourne short of 2:00. After a near-fall, Vickie got on the apron to distract the referee. Ziggler interfered and brought Bourne down throat-first over the top rope. Swagger tried his finisher, but Bourne hit a knee to the face. Kofi Kingston attacked Ziggler at ringside. Vickie then interfered, knocking Bourne off the top rope. Swagger hooked in the ankle-lock for the tap-out win.

WINNER: Swagger, at 2:33. Too much going on in this match once again. The constant interference has hampered this little mini-feud.

3 – SIN CARA vs. HEATH SLATER

It was the original Cara, to start at least. I wonder how long I’ll have to type that to clarify. Cara did a springboard and basically tossed his body at Slater. Kick to the head, then a Swanton bomb by Cara and that got the win.

WINNER: Cara, at :43. The “real” Cara hasn’t gotten much traction of late, with the “fake” one taking the win last week and his spot in the Battle Royal on Monday, so this was a necessary back-to-business win.

The fake Cara was on the TitanTron after the match. It was a close-up, and he took off his Cara mask, revealing a different one underneath – it was black, pin and a little blue. The fake Cara said Cara once stole his identity as “Mistico” and now he’s doing the same to him. He said we’d find out Sunday who will be truly worthy of being known as “Sin Cara.”

4 – KELLY KELLY vs. NATALYA

Beth Phoenix was on headsets for this one. Natalya was already in the ring. Kelly hit a Thesz Press off the second rope, but Nattie came back with a clothesline. Nattie tied Kelly’s arm up while applying a rear chin-lock. Kelly fought out and was then slammed down by her hair. Kelly climbed on Nattie’s shoulders and got a victory roll for the win.

WINNER: Kelly, at 1:25. Didn’t even really give Beth much time to expound on what the losses to Kelly have done to her and whether or not Kelly has her “number.”

Beth attacked after the match and put Kelly down with the Glam Slam. Nattie then locked Kelly in the leg-hold she used Monday night. Kelly screamed in agony into the mic that Beth had and Beth said that’s the sound Kelly will make on Sunday when she takes the title from the “undeserving, screaming little Barbie Doll.”

5 – CODY RHODES vs. SHEAMUS – INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Sheamus shoved Cody down after a lock-up, but Cody took advantage in the corner. Sheamus countered and took Rhodes to the mat with forearms to the mat. After the first pin try 45 seconds in, Rhodes went to ringside. He came back in and fell victim to a back body-drop. Cody brought Sheamus arm-first across the top rope, then hit his springboard kick to the head. He tried to get something going as they went to break at 2:26.

The show returned at 5:56. Sheamus was working out of a rest-hold as Booker said he hoped Sheamus would “beat the dust off of” Rhodes. Dropkick by Rhodes, lateral press for two. Rhodes choked Sheamus with his boot. Cole and the announcers used this time to discuss Triple H’s effectiveness as COO. Rhodes kept Sheamus down with a wrist-lock. Rhodes made a mistake just shy of 10:00 in when he ended up ramming himself shoulder-first into the ring post. Sheamus began to build momentum and connected with a knee-lift. He went to the top and nailed Cody with a flying shoulder tackle. It got two at 10:34. Another near-fall followed soon after. As Sheamus got Rhodes up for the Irish Cross, Christian ran out and attacked Sheamus, causing the DQ.

WINNER: Sheamus, via DQ, at 11:38. Not a satisfying ending, but it makes sense in the storyline that Christian would continually interfere to cost Sheamus a title, especially if there are no consequences in doing so. Christian told a fallen Sheamus that Sheamus cost him the World Title, now he’s returning the favor.

6 – ZACK RYDER vs. JTG

Cole plugged NXT with the rare Smackdown appearance of JTG. Swinging neckbreaker by JTG, followed by some mocking of Ryder. JTG put Ryder up for a suplex and brought him down with a neck-breaker. Ryder got stuck in a rear chin-lock, but eventually worked out and got his knees up on a JTG charge. Ryder began a comeback and white-washed JTG with a kick in the corner. Cover got two. “Are you serious, bro?” he asked the ref on the near-fall. Rough Ryder leg lariat out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 2:55. Not much to complain about here.

7 – CHRISTIAN vs. RANDY ORTON

Some back and forth action early on, then a dropkick off the second rope. Christian had the advantage as they went to break at 2:50.

Back at 6:18 with Christian in control. Inverted DDT by Christian for two. Orton came back with a Thesz Press, but his offense was short-lived. Back to the chin-lock for Christian. Orton fought back again at 9:26, trading blows with his opponent. High dropkick that almost overshot a charging Christian. Orton punched at the skull of Christian in the corner. Flip kick by Christian in the corner, then Orton gave him a back-breaker. Christian missed a cross-body, and Christian countered with a back suplex. He set up for the spear at 12:26. The move found the mark, but Orton kicked out. Killswitch attempt, but Orton found his way out of it, then finally connected on the rope-assisted DDT. Orton set up for the RKO, but Christian ran out of the ring. Orton ran up the ramp after him and gave him an uppercut and a kick. Orton dished out more punishment, throwing Christian into the ringside steps. The ref counted both men out as Orton continued to stalk Christian at ringside.

WINNER: Double count-out, at 14:22.

Orton began to dismantle the announce table. No official announcement on the result of the match yet, as far as the ring announcer goes. Orton set Christian up on the table, but out ran Cody Rhodes. Orton saw him and jumped him, but Christian knocked Orton from behind. Springboard kick by Rhodes, using the apron to assist him. Christian, suddenly full of energy and life, and Rhodes attacked Orton in the ring. Sheamus ran out to make the save, giving Rhodes the Brogue Kick. He chased Christian through the crowd. As he did this, Mark Henry’s music hit. He walked to the ring with a purpose, but Orton greeted him with right hands. Henry dodged an RKO and hit the World’s Strongest Slam. Just when it appeared Henry was done, he got a steel chair from ringside for the second time tonight. As Henry entered the ring, Orton RKO’d Henry. Part of me feels like they should save that for Hell in a Cell, but with Orton standing tall here, it gives me more confidence that Henry will win Sunday. Orton celebrated as his music played while Henry recovered at ringside.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2011, 01:00 pm
WWE Hell In A Cell PPV Results: 10-2-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_53872.shtml)

1 -- CHRISTIAN vs. SHEAMUS

After the bell sounded, the announcers debated whether Laurinaitis has the right to remove Miz and Truth if they had tickets, prompting Cole to say the "promoter" has discretion to eliminate fans. When was the last time "promoter" was used on WWE TV? Christian tried to play mouse to Sheamus's cat early on, trying to frustrate and anger Sheamus. Christian got the best of the exchange and began wearing down Sheamus. Sheamus tried to make various comebacks, but couldn't maintain momentum, selling the effects of Christian's work. Christian tried to finish off Sheamus with a Tornado DDT, but Sheamus kicked out of a pin attempt. Sheamus came back with a knee lift, then went up top for a flying shoulder tackle. The crowd got fired up with Sheamus now firmly in control. He called for the end, which allowed Christian to avoid a Brogue Kick. The action moved to the floor, where Christian avoided a catapult and delivered the Spear.

Sheamus avoided a ten count by re-entering at eight, so Christian landed another hard spear mid-ring. Sheamus kicked out, though, frustrating Christian. Christian tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Sheamus moved. They teased finishers, then Christian missed with a third Spear and crashed into the turnbuckle. Christian turned around and stumbled into the Brogue Kick, giving Sheamus the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 13:41. Nice, competitive match to start the PPV. Christian can spin the loss coming out of the PPV, while Sheamus picked up a solid singles victory to likely set up a title run at Henry. (**1/4)

2 -- SIN CARA vs. SIN CARA
 
As the two men circled the ring, Cole recapped that Sin Cara was injured at Money in the Bank in July, then they thought he returned a month later, but it turned out to be the imposter stealing his identity. Cole also referenced Sin Cara's background as a top draw in Mexico. Lots of early counters and high-flying before the real Sin Cara cleared the faker to the outside and delivered a flip dive splash. Faker then took control and they reversed the sequence leading to black & silver delivering a flip dive splash. The crowd was not into this, of note. B&S Sin Cara became frustrated when he was unable to put away original Cara. The crowd then moved to restlessness, leading to the two men picking up the pace. Original Cara landed a big splash on the outside that momentarily popped the crowd before they returned to the ring. The two men traded control again before original Cara countered a powerbomb into a victory roll for the pin and the win. Now we can end Michael Cole's attempt to botch the Spanish language.
 
WINNER: Original Cara at 9:46. Tough match. The crowd wasn't into the story or match and the spots were hit & miss. WWE has to go back to the drawing board on the Sin Cara character. (*)

3 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- WWE Tag Title match
 
The face tag champions took control early on, drawing early screams from Vickie. Swagger then cut off the smaller Bourne to begin working him over. Ziggler lost control when he missed with a corner splash, then Kofi tagged into the match. Kofi quickly lost control, though, when he spilled to the outside via nefarious activity by the heels. As the heels worked over Kingston, Cole began ranting against Triple H. He said Ziggler and Swagger have been put in terrible situations since they spoke out against Hunter. So, being granted a Tag Title shot is being put in a terrible position?
 
Bourne eventually took a hot tag and cleaned house on the heels before delivering a flying double knee smash for a close two count. Bourne followed with a standing moonsault for a two count. The action broke down moments later and Bourne found himself in trouble coming out of the scrap. The heels then attempted a top-rope powerbomb combination, but Bourne countered on Swagger with a huracanrana. Kingston then yanked Dolph out of the ring as Bourne scored a quick three for the win. Vickie was shocked into silence. After a replay, she unleashed her inner rage with a verbal assault on Swagger.
 
WINNERS: Bourne & Kingston at 11:20 to retain the Tag Titles. Solid tag match. Not particularly memorable, though, in what amounted to an extended version of what would normally air on TV. (**)

4 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. RANDY ORTON -- World Title match -- Hell in a Cell match
 
Orton tried to be the aggressor early on, but Henry cut him off and the two men traded control. Henry then began a slow, methodical attack on Orton outside of the ring, using the Cell as a weapon. Henry then tried to toss the ring steps into Orton's face, but Orton moved out of the way and the steps crashed into the wall. Henry went back on the attack, trying to make Orton cry uncle. Orton ran back into the ring to catch a breather, then kicked out of an early World's Strongest Slam from Henry.
 
Moments later, Henry tried a World's Strongest Slam on the ring steps on the floor, but Orton grabbed the Cell wall to avoid before dropping Henry into the steps. The crowd popped for the comeback. Back in the ring, Orton delivered a DDT before teasing the RKO. And he connected. Orton made the cover, but Henry kicked out, drawing gasps from the crowd. Orton, stunned, tried to regroup before going for The Punt, but Henry countered with the World's Strongest Slam. Henry with the pin for the win.
 
Post-match: Henry left the ring with the title belt, but then returned to the ringside area to find a chair under the ring. Henry delivered a World's Strongest Slam, then placed Orton's foot inside the chair as Cole rattled off the names of wrestlers Henry has injured. Henry went for a big splash, but Orton was able to avoid at the last second. The crowd popped as Orton picked up the chair and jabbed it into Henry's gut before delivering a chair shot to the back. Orton then chased Henry up the entrance ramp with multiple chair shots to the back. Orton tried a final blow, but Henry kicked him away and left.
 
WINNER: Henry at 15:59 to retain the World Title. Expected finish and expected basic use of the Cell structure during the match. The post-match allowed Orton to save face and keeps him in the title picture going into Vengeance. (Are you shocked the Hell in a Cell match didn't resolve the issue and was merely a bridge to the next match?) (**)

5 -- Intercontinental champion CODY RHODES vs. JOHN MORRISON -- IC Title match
 
Rhodes, in street clothes and nice shoes, tried to duck Morrison early on before Morrison scored some early nearfalls. Rhodes made his way to the outside to remove his fancy dress shirt, but Morrison tossed it into the crowd. Rhodes tried to walk away, but Morrison grabbed him and tried to throw him back into the ring. Rhodes blocked, then Rhodes clutched the ringpost to attempt to get counted out, but Morrison threw him back into the ring. Rhodes then cut off Morrison, who took the bait. Rhodes tried a figure-four leglock, which drew a few whoos from the crowd, but Morrison escaped. Morrison and Rhodes went back and forth before Morrison landed a Pele kick that Ross called by name. Rhodes kicked out, then rolled up Morrison for a quick three count for the win.
 
WINNER: Rhodes at 7:20 to retain the IC Title. Another downer for Morrison, who was unable to put away a wrestler in street clothes. Meanwhile, Rhodes continues to thwart obstacles put in his way to build some credibility. (*1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 03 2011, 01:01 pm


6 -- Divas champion KELLY KELLY (w/Eve) vs. BETH PHOENIX (w/Natalya) -- Divas Title match
 
Beth and Natalya were out first for the next title match on what has turned into Night of Champions II, with the only title not defended tonight being the U.S. Title, but the U.S. champion was in the Tag Title match. Once the bell sounded, Beth acted like this would be an easy win, so Kelly popped her in the mouth with a forearm, which angered Beth. Beth dominated and continued to be frustrated when Kelly escaped pinfalls. It looked like the other title matches, but, this time, Natalya interfered behind the ref's back to allow Phoenix to hit the Glam Slam on Kelly for the win. They stayed with Beth's post-match victory moment for a while.
 
WINNER: Phoenix at 8:32 to capture the Divas Title. Classic heel story of Beth being frustrated by Kelly so many times that she resorted to interference to capture the title. It also gave Kelly an "out" and set up the re-match. Unlike the match in Buffalo two weeks ago, the crowd wasn't interested in this one.
 
7 -- WWE champion JOHN CENA vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. C.M. PUNK -- three-way WWE Title match -- Hell in a Cell match
 
Everyone got their time in the spotlight with the three men trading control of the action early on. The crowd came to life with a "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks" dueling chant during this opening sequence. The closest they came to blood was Punk coming up halfway bleeding from his back after Del Rio shoved him off the ring steps into the side of the Cell. More exchanges trading control before Del Rio introduced a chair into the proceedings to smash Punk and Cena with chair shots to the back. Del Rio then went up top for a senton splash and connected to Punk's back. Suddenly, Cena dropped Punk with the Attitude Adjustment, but Del Rio broke up the pin. Punk then delivered the G2S to Cena, but Del Rio yanked Punk out of the ring. Del Rio back in control. That didn't last long, as Punk cut off Del Rio and landed a Macho Man elbow drop from the top rope for a two count. Punk then wanted a top-rope elbow on Cena, but Del Rio shoved Punk off the top through a table set up ringside earlier.
 
Back in the ring, Cena dropped Del Rio to the mat with the STF. On the outside, though, Ricardo managed to KO the ref, unlock the cage, and enter the cage, which allowed Del Rio to break free when Cena was distracted. Cena then dropped Ricardo with the AA on the floor, but Del Rio popped Cena with a steel pipe introduced by Ricardo and locked Cena out of the cage. Back in the Cell, Del Rio and Punk battled one-on-one as Cena continued to sell on the floor outside the Cell. Cena then came to life and realized the door was locked. Ricardo didn't have the key, though, as Del Rio kept it. Cena tried to bust open the door, but it wouldn't budge. Del Rio then taunted Cena from inside the cage before returning to the ring to pop Punk in the face with the pipe. Del Rio made the cover and it was good for the win to re-capture the WWE Title.
 
WINNER: Del Rio at 24:10 to capture the WWE Title. Okay main event. It had its moments, but not PPV main event-worthy. As for the finish, they did everything they could to distract from Del Rio winning the title and Cena losing the title based on the post-match. It didn't even seem like the crowd really realized what happened and it's just another nail in the coffin for the value of WWE's top title. (**1/2)
 
Post-match: Cena stormed the Cell once it began to be raised to attack Del Rio, but Miz and R-Truth entered the Cell to jump Cena. Laurinaitis and Triple H then ran down to restore order, but the Cell was re-lowered to the ground. They checked with the production team, but they lost control. The entire locker room and security ran down to the Cell as Miz and Truth began assaulting referees and cameramen inside the Cell. Eventually, someone with bolt cutters stormed the ring to cut open the Cell and allow police to arrest Miz and Truth. Booker said they need Street Justice here. As Miz was being taken away, Triple H teed off on Miz. He shoved down Laurinaitis before WWE security pulled Hunter away. Anarchy on the outside. Miz and Truth were eventually hauled off to the back as Hunter sold anger. The credits came on the screen at 10:38 p.m. EST as they faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 05 2011, 01:45 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-3-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report: sorry, no Caldwell this week!). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53912.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results and the final segment of the show.

1 – RANDY ORTON vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Poor McIntyre didn’t get an entrance. I’m guessing he’ll last a tad longer than he did in the battle royal last week. During Orton’s entrance, they showed stills from his match last night against Mark Henry. McIntyre got the early advantage, but Orton shot out of the corner with a clothesline. Cole promised exclusive footage showing what happened after the PPV went off the air last night. European uppercut, then a dropkick by Orton that sent McIntyre to ringside. Orton went after him and tossed him into the barricade. He then led McIntyre into the barricade on the opposite side of the ring as well. Back in the ring, the referee admonished Orton, leading to McIntyre booting Orton in the face. He continued the onslaught as Orton attempted to protect himself. Snap suplex by McIntyre for a near-fall at 2:40. Orton fought back and pounded away at McIntyre in the corner. McIntyre got a boot up on a corner charge and got two. The announcers spent a lot of time discussing the atmosphere in the building as far as the wrestlers are concerned, after what happened last night. Swinging neckbreaker by McIntyre for two. To the second rope went the Scot, but it was a mistake, as Orton got his boots up as Mac came down. Orton began to connect on his signature moves and did the rope-assisted DDT. By the way, Miz just posted a link on Twitter to an apology video that he and Truth recorded; it’s up on Youtube. Orton hit the RKO for the win.

WINNER: Orton, at 5:27. I guess it was smart to let this match go a little longer, considering Orton should be beat up from his match with Henry last night. Another part of me is still surprised WWE had him take that long to beat McIntyre, as I figured they’d want to give him momentum with a quick, decisive win.

2 – MARK HENRY vs. JOHN MORRISON

So that’s why Henry stayed in the ring. JR said tonight is Morrison’s birthday. Henry was on offense to start. Beal out of the corner by Henry, but Morrison landed on his feet. However, he could not capitalize. Henry gave Morrison a shot to the back, then tried to finish him. Morrison jumped out of a slam attempt and got Henry down to one knee. Running knee to the face, followed by Starship Pain. Booker proclaimed we’d have a new champ, despite the fact that the title is not on the line. Henry kicked out, kicked Morrison in the face, then gave him the World’s Strongest Slam for the win.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:58. It’s a race to stay out of the basement between McIntyre and Morrison. McIntyre won that battle tonight.

3 – EVE TORRES & KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA

Kelly was still all smiles despite losing the title last night. The announcers had to cover for that, as JR said she’s smiling but hurting inside. Beth took Kelly by the hair and flung her under the bottom rope and to the outside. Kelly slammed Beth’s head intot he announce table while screaming, presumably in anger. Nattie and Eve started brawling as well, and the ref called for the bell. Kelly sat on the back of Beth at ringside and continued the onslaught.

WINNERS: No Contest, at :34. If she was this irate, why was she smiling so big on the way to the ring? Would it kill someone to tell her to show some consistency with her character?

 Jinder Mahal was in the ring. He spoke in his native tongue until Santino Marella’s music hit. He made his return and walked out for a match. After throwing his Cobra arm-sleeve to the crowd, he spoke in a fake foreign language to Mahal and said, “halitosis.” Mahal argued back and apparently they OK’d a match.

4 – JINDER MAHAL vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Mahal missed a corner charge and Marella set up for the Cobra. It found the mark.

WINNER: Marella, at :33. This makes Mahal’s win over Yoshi Tatsu on NXT last week even stranger.

5 – CM PUNK & JOHN CENA & KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE & MASON RYAN & SHEAMUS vs. CODY RHODES & DAVID OTUNGA & JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER & CHRISTIAN & ALBERTO DEL RIO

Cena got the best of Otunga at the outset, then Ziggler and Ryan matched up. Ziggler yelled at Ryan and slapped him. Ryan responded with, you guessed it, a clothesline. Ryan pressed Ziggler over his head and tossed him to ringside on top of Swagger. The heels regrouped in front of the announcers. Ziggler came back in and dove right into Ryan’s arms. Standing powerslam for two at 2:06. Sheamus tagged in and Ziggler got out of another slam attempt. He tagged Swagger in. Sheamus clobbered Swagger over the back and neck with forearms. Crowd was loving it. Swagger took out Sheamus’s knee. Back-breaker by Sheamus for two. Punk came in and slammed Swagger. Neither he nor Cena are showing much ill effect from the Cell match. Rhodes tagged in before Punk could come off the top onto Swagger. Rhodes found some early offense against Punk. Punk came back with a jumping leg kick, then a running knee in the corner. Bulldog out of it, then he went for the GTS. The apron emptied and there was a stand-off in the middle of the ring. Perfect time for a commercial break, 5:47 into the match.

Back at 8:50, with Kingston missing a cross-body and Cody connecting on a springboard kick. Christian tagged in and landed a neck-breaker for a two-count. The heels did some cheating behind the referee’s back. The heels kept the legal man fresh with frequent tags. Rhodes tossed Kingston out of the ring and Swagger stomped him. Kofi recovered to throw Rhodes into the barricade. Cole noted that a second official should’ve been assigned to this match. Kofi tried to leap over Ziggler to make a tag, but it was unsuccessful. Otunga slammed Kofi and went for a cover, only getting two. Both Ziggler and Kofi went for a cross-body. Crowd really got behind Kofi, who made the tag to Bourne. He kicked away at Swagger and went to the top. He kicked down an interfering Christian and hit Air Bourne. Swagger rolled over and Vickie was able to put Swagger’s leg on the rope during the pin. The referee then sent her to the back. The babyfaces taunted her as she left ringside. They went to break again at 16:29.

The show returned at 19:42. Ziggler was doing his best to prevent Bourne from making the tag. Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Del Rio for two in one of his few appearances during this match. Tornado DDT by Bourne and both men were down at 21:35. Cena tagged in and Del Rio was the victim of his patented offense. Del Rio put an end to that by bringing Cena’s arm down across his knees. Cena was stuck in the heel corner as Swagger and Rhodes got a few shots in on Cena. Everybody seemed to want to get a piece of Cena, and everyone got a piece. Hard whip into the buckle by Swagger. Vader Bomb by Swagger for two at 24:18. Swagger tried another one less than a minute later, but Cena rolled out of the way. Cena tagged Sheamus, and Swagger tagged Ziggler. High knee lift and a beauty. He tried to go to the top, but Del Rio pushed him off (after Christian couldn’t do so). Zig Zag by Ziggler on Sheamus, then Bourne came off the top with the double knees. Cody came in and gave Bourne Cross Rhodes. Mason Ryan put Rhodes over his head, but Swagger and Rhodes ended up clotheslining him over the top. Kingston gave a cross-body to both men, then a suplex from Del Rio on Kofi. Del Rio was given the GTS by Punk, and Otunga gave Punk a neck-breaker (interesting that Otunga was the one who took Punk out). AA on Otunga by Cena, then a Zig Zag to Cena. In the end, Sheamus gave Ziggler the Brogue Kick for the win.

WINNERS: Babyfaces, at 26:53. Really good match and hot most of the way through. Can’t remember when there was a match that long on Raw.

End segment in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 05 2011, 01:45 am
Both rosters were shown surrounding the ring. There was a pause in the music, but the fans weren’t chanting for Triple H, if that’s what they were supposed to do. “Time to Play the Game” then started up, and Hunter walked out. I didn’t see Johnny Ace out there. Hunter got into the ring and walked around the squared circle, looking at the guys. It’s very confusing when Hunter talks about just “running Raw” while other times they talk about how he’s running everything. Hunter said this wasn’t a job he wanted, but was a job he was given. He addressed what Miz and R-Truth said, and said they should apologize to the WWE Universe for being a bunch of babies. He said if they were willing to do the crime, they should’ve been willing to do the time. He said he’s old school and likes watching people beat the hell out of each other. He said he enjoys the battles and the chaos that is Monday Night Raw and WWE. Hunter said that, at the end of the day, don’t they really work for the fans? Poor Sin Cara probably has no idea what he’s saying right now.

Wade Barrett tried to interrupt but Hunter said it’s his responsibility that Raw is the best show it can possibly be. He said he works his *** off not for the wrestlers, but for the fans. Trips said he was curious to hear the opinions of the wrestlers. Barrett said he’s been selected by his colleagues to speak on some grievances they’ve had. Hey, there’s William Regal! Barrett said there truly is an unsafe working environment in WWE. “You suck” chants from the fans. Barrett said they came to WWE because they’re competitors who like to adhere to rules and regulations. But that doesn’t include being subjected to attacks by people in the parking lot, or being put in an unsafe working environment because Hunter can’t do his job. He said the reason for the chaos is because Hunter is out of control. Hunter introduced the fans to Barrett, who just more than a year ago led Nexus in their attack on WWE in an attempt to shut Raw down. He said Barrett only has a problem because he’s not the one causing it.
 
Mike Chioda spoke up next and said he’s known Triple H for 16 years. He said he’s never seen this much abuse referees have taken at the hands of WWE Superstars. He asked how they were supposed to get respect from Superstars and do their job. Triple H called him “Mike” and said he fired the guys that attacked them. Chioda reminded Hunter that Miz and Truth still got in the building, and nothing was done about the attacks on Chad Patton and Scott Armstrong. Chioda said 23 years he’s been in WWE, and now he’s afraid to come to work. Hunter seemed at a loss for words. Beth Phoenix spoke up and said as women they’re more vulnerable. Hunter asked for a specific instance of something that happened. Beth said it’s just that something “could” happen.
 
Jerry Lawler spoke up next and actually entered the ring. Lawler said he’s agreed with what some people have said, but disagreed on other points. He said he agreed that Raw is spiraling out of control and that it’s becoming a hostile work environment…but he doesn’t think it’s Hunter’s fault. He said it’s exactly as Punk said it was, that there’s someone behind the scenes sabotaging Hunter, and everyone around the ring is paying the price for it. Lawler said somebody doesn’t want Hunter to be in charge. Christian interrupted and asked for a vote of confidence right now. He said on behalf of him and his colleagues, they vote no confidence. Chioda spoke for the refs and echoed that sentiment. Phoenix did the same, presumably for the Divas. Lawler even said no confidence, despite admitting he thought someone was sabotaging Hunter. He even said actions speak louder than words and reluctantly walked out. The rest of the roster slowly made their way up the ramp as well.

One group of wrestlers stayed behind though, and had a discussion amongst themselves. As they did so, Michael Cole walked off. The group that stayed behind consisted of Kofi, Zack Ryder, Percy Watson, Marella, Alex Riley, Morrison and Bourne. They finally made their way out, as did Booker T, Justin Roberts and another ringside worker. Even the cameramen put their cameras down and walked off in a nice touch. Hunter stared at JR, who was still at the announce table. The crowd roared their approval. JR pushed his chair back and took off his headset as they began to boo. JR then walked to the back, though he didn’t seem to want to. Hunter looked to the crowd, who cheered him. Johnny Ace then walked out onto the stage. He shook his head as the crowd chanted “you suck.” Ace then turned his back and walked out. Hunter stayed in the ring and looked around as the show went off. Unique and interesting final segment. I liked it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 06 2011, 11:47 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 10-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53953.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Maxine) vs. TITUS O'NEIL

Bateman started off in control of the match as Regal introduced this week's Fascinating Maxine Fact: her uncle likes to train monkeys and dilly-dally around flea markets. Korpela then noted Hornswoggle has left NXT and is residing on Smackdown only. With Bateman still on the defensive, Regal suggested Titus is now boring and bland after losing Hornswoggle's mentoring services. Titus finally made a comeback with an overhead slam that slowed down Bateman. Titus then ripped off a flurry of offense before landing a powerslam for a close two count. Titus became distracted by Maxine, though, allowing Bateman to clip him from behind and score with a bulldog for the win.

WINNER: Bateman at 5:12. Will this lead to the return of Hornswoggle to pep up Titus? Will A.J. now manage Titus? Will NXT ever end?

2 -- JTG (w/Darren Young) vs. YOSHI TATSU

Regal said he's having issues with Yoshi this season because it was an action figure leg at first and now it's facepaint when he needs to be more concerned about winning matches. On the outside, D-Young mocked Yoshi with make-up, so Yoshi kicked him in the head. Back in the ring, JTG took advantage of Yoshi losing focus and went to work on him with kicks and stomps. The crowd rallied behind Yoshi, but JTG cut him off and D-Young mocked Yoshi again after recovering from the kick to the head. JTG hit the mug shot out of the corner, but Yoshi kicked out in time. Yoshi made a full comeback at 4:00, then went up top. Yoshi connected with his signature top-rope roundhouse kick and it was good for the win. Mike Chioda, spokesman for the referees who walked out on Triple H, raised Yoshi's hand in victory. D-Young then checked on JTG as Yoshi celebrated the victory.

WINNER: Yoshi at 4:52. Basic story played out in the ring. Good recovery win for Yoshi after the head-scratching loss to Jinder Mahal last week.

3 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. HEATH SLATER

Korpela noted Slater was proud of himself for walking out on Triple H. Regal said he wasn't, but he did it out of necessity to send a message Hunter has too much responsibility on his plate. Regal then heeled on wrestlers thinking they're not getting opportunities when perhaps they don't deserve an opportunity, turning the storyline into a "worked shoot" direct from management. Regal added that people like Bryan, Sheamus, and Ted DiBiase actually go in the ring and try to be the best while other wrestlers sit in the stands all day and never ask questions or try to improve.

In the ring, Bryan dominated before Slater cut him off to begin working him over. On the floor, Bryan reversed a whip into the guardrail and followed with a running knee smash from the ring apron. Back in the ring, Slater crotched Bryan on the top turnbuckle and went back to work on Bryan. Slater's advantage didn't last long, as Bryan fired up a comeback and delivered trademark strikes. Slater tried to fight back, but Bryan caught him a Dragonscrew leg whip right into the Regal Stretch center-ring. Slater quickly tapped out. Post-match, Bryan shot a look toward Regal to acknowledge the finisher. After a replay, Regal noted Bryan has been frustrated lately due to the losing streak and perhaps this will snap him out of it.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 5:41. That was perhaps Slater's best in-ring performance in some time. There's something to be said about when wrestlers get in the ring with Bryan, he forces them to raise their game. Also, nice showcase for Bryan displaying his intensity and trademark offense.

4 -- THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS

Regal went back to heeling on wrestlers who complain about not getting opportunities as the heels worked over Jey to begin the match. The Usos then combined for a great Samoan Drop during their comeback before the action broke down. Jimmy and Reks ended up on the outside. Back in the ring, Jey delivered a big superkick on Hawkins before climbing up top. Reks distracted him, though, and Hawkins tossed Jey to the mat. Hawkins then went up top for a heat-seeking elbow drop for the pin and the win, dashing the hopes of the fans. Regal said Hawkins and Reks need to do something with this victory instead of just complaining. After a replay, they showed the Usos recovering as Regal finished his show-long "pep talk" to the younger stars to make a statement like Hawkins and Reks just did.

WINNERS: Hawkins & Reks at 4:50. Short main event, but effective for keeping the issue alive and the Usos on the chase.

FINAL THOUGHT: NXT is officially Superstars now. There's no sense of a Rookie competition show and NXT has become a showcase for mid-carders, just with the same characters every week, which differentiates it from Superstars.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 09 2011, 01:54 am
ROH TV Results: 10-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_53900.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - MIKE BENNETT (w/Brutal Bob) vs. JIMMY JACOBS (w/Steve Corino)

Jacobs offered a handshake and Bennett gave him a very loose handshake. Bennett dared Jacobs to hit him. Bennett gave Jacobs the worst pie-face in the history of wrestling. Bennett tried to pie-face Jacobs again. The crowd chanted “you can’t wrestle” at Bennett. Jacobs hit Bennett, but Bennett fired back and put the boots to Jacobs in the corner. Jacobs fired back and put the boots to Bennett in the corner. Bennett fired back and hit a back breaker on Jacobs. They introduced the “tweet of the week.” What a horrible thing to include on television. I won’t even repeat what the tweet was.

Bennett sent Jacobs to the outside. The crowd noise sounds distant again, as it did last week. Bennett hit another back breaker inside the ring before slamming Jacobs. McGuinness called Bennett a natural in the ring and compared him to Kurt Angle. Oh, brother. Jacobs fired back and hit a neck breaker. McGuinness talked about Jacobs’s signature moves. Jacobs went to the second rope and jumped over Bennett. Bennett caught him off the ropes with a spinebuster, but Jacobs kicked out. Jacobs ducked under Bennett and caught him with a springboard ace crusher for a nearfall. Jacobs went for a senton off the top, but Bennett got his knees up. Bennett hit the box office smash for the pin.

Winner: Mike Bennett. I just don’t see it with Bennett. This was a fine match for television, but the praise given to him by the announcers was above and beyond what he showed in the ring from a charisma and in-ring ability standpoint. Comparing Bennett to Rock and Angle is really going have a lot of eyes rolling across the Sinclair markets.

2 - - EL GENERICO vs. JAY LETHAL – ROH TV Title match

The crowd was hot for the start of this match. The announcers said Generico doesn’t speak much English. In fact, they don’t hear him speak much at all. Generico took down Lethal with a headscissors early and the crowd applauded. Lethal fired back and took down Generico with a headscissors and they came to a stalemate. Lethal offered a handshake and helped Generico to his feet. Lethal took control and hit a hip toss into a dropkick for a 2 count. Lethal took Generico down and locked him in a nasty looking submission. Lethal’s shoulders were clearly on the ground while holding the submission, but the ref didn’t count it. Lethal let go of the hold and covered Generico for a 2 count. The crowd applauded as Lethal grabbed a front face lock on Generico. Generico fought back with some punches, but Lethal took him down with a dropkick.

Both men traded blows in the middle of the ring. Generico hit a series of arm drags that sent Lethal to the outside. The crowd went nuts as Generico set up a dive. Generico got a running start and hit a big flip dive to the outside to wipe out Lethal before a commercial break.

Back from commercial, Lethal was back in control. They went to a double box with highlights of the action from the break. The boxes should have been bigger in the replay graphic. Lethal caught Generico with a sunset flip into a pin for a 2 count. Generico fired right back on Lethal and took control as the crowd applauded. Lethal fired back with a handspring elbow that left both men down on the mat. Both men traded punches again in the middle of the ring. Lethal drove Generico into the corner to break a waist lock. Lethal shoved Generico off and hit a missile dropkick for a 2 count. Cruise announced there were three minutes left in the time limit. A clock was shown on the screen with the time remaining in the match. Lethal hit a neck breaker variation, but Generico kicked out at 2 with two minutes left in the match.

McGuinness said this is the time you hate when you’re a wrestler. He said you’ve got to suck it up and get it done. Lethal set up for a powerbomb, but Generico countered it into a tornado DDT for a nearfall with close to one minute remaining in the match. Generico fired up as the crowd chanted “ole,ole” for him. Generico hit a blue thunder powerbomb for another nearfall and the crowd groaned. Lethal blocked a yokuza kicked and got a rollup for a nearfall with 15 seconds left. Both men exchanged counters in the middle of the ring as the time limit expired.

The crowd chanted for five more minutes. Cruise announced the match as a time limit draw. Generico tried to talk to the ref about getting more time. Jim Cornette came out. He said they have three minutes left in TV time. Cornette asked if they wanted it and both men agreed. Lethal and Generico exchanged blows as the fans went nuts. Lethal hit a big clothesline in the corner, but Generico caught him with a yokuza kick and half-nelson suplex for a nearfall and the crowd went nuts. Generico set up for the top rope brainbuster, but Lethal countered it into a suplex. Lethal went up top and went for an elbow, but Generico got out of the way. Generico set up for the top rope brainbuster, but Lethal pushed him off and hit a top rope elbow. The crowd counted along with the ref, but Generico kicked out at the last second. Generico caught Lethal with a suplex into the corner. Generico went for a yokuza kick in the corner, but Lethal caught him with a superkick. Lethal then hit the Lethal injection for the win.

Winner: Jay Lethal to capture the ROH TV title. This was a really good TV match. It started a little slow, but the last five minutes and the overtime were excellent. The crowd was really into the match and it left a lasting impression of what a good ROH match can bring to the table for new fans watching in Sinclair markets. ROH would be wise not to do the extra time gimmick too often, as it was just used at the “Death Before Dishonor IX” iPPV recently in the Strong vs. Edwards match. To be fair, that iPPV has been totally ignored on TV so far.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 09 2011, 01:55 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 10-6-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_54027.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results save for the final segment.

1 -- KAZARIAN vs. GUNNER

The announcers continued to talk Hogan as the production truck ran Twitter posts on the screen talking about the make-believe contributions Hogan has made to TNA. Gunner targeted Kazarian's previously-injured left tricep/bicep area with early offense before Kaz made a comeback at 3:30. Gunner avoided a corner attack, though, and Kaz smashed into the ringpost. Gunner followed up with a standing armbar and Kaz quickly tapped out.

Post-match: Gunner locked the hold in an extra moment to inflict more punishment, which led to a reverse decision by the referee. Kaz was announced as the winner while medics checked on Kaz. Gunner didn't care about the result and gloated over his work before leaving the ring. "Screw you all!" he growled to no one in particular.

WINNER: Kaz via DQ reverse decision at 4:13.

2 -- MICKIE JAMES & VELVET SKY vs. Knockouts champion WINTER (w/Angelina Love) & MADISON RAYNE

The heels made their entrance on the other side of the break leading right into the start of the fourth quarter-hour. The focus early on was on Mickie-Winter, continuing their recent KO Title feud. The heels took control via outside interference from Angelina to begin working over Mickie. After Velvet took a tag, the action broke down. Referee confusion ensued. Rayne then rolled up Velvet, who had a pin moments earlier, for the win.

WINNERS: Winter & Rayne at 4:41. Basic build-up to the title match in ten days.

3 -- SAMOA JOE vs. CRIMSON

Aggressive back-and-forth early on. Crimson ducked a clothesline and t-bone suplexed Joe across the ring to the floor. On the outside, Crimson inflicted more punishment as more Hogan tweets flashed on the screen. Joe reversed the offensive advantage in his favor, flipped off the ref, and tried to re-injure Crimson's leg. Back in the ring, Joe continued to work on the lower leg. Joe applied a submission and Crimson teased tapping out, which would have ended his make-believe undefeated streak that the announcers completely missed when they could have enhanced the jeopardy Crimson faced, then Crimson suddenly rolled through into a small package for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Crimson at 5:21.

4 -- ROBERT ROODE (241 lbs.) vs. JAMES STORM (240 lbs.)

The two men stood their ground before circling around the ring and knocking fists to begin the match. They traded holds and counters before Storm teased a superkick that Roode backed away from. Roode smiled and Storm said he missed him by that much. Roode then had his turn, nearly sneaking in a submission finisher. The two men came nose-to-nose to sell tension as TNA cut to break.

Back from break, Tenay talked about Hogan as the Beer Money partners were tied up in the corner. Storm and Roode traded hard chops as Taz noted it's getting a little snug in the ring. Tenay then confirmed A.J. Styles vs. Daniels at Bound for Glory, and in an I Quit match. Roode and Storm continued the even match-up with an exchange of close nearfalls. The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Storm executed a superplex that popped the crowd. Storm made a cover, but Roode escaped in time. Storm and Roode went into a counter-counter sequence before Roode slapped on a Crossface that Storm escaped via rope break.

Suddenly, the ref was bumped when all three men collided in the ring and Storm found himself on the floor. On cue, Kurt Angle hit the ringside area and threw Storm into the ring steps. Angle then rolled Storm back into the ring and ran backstage. In the ring, Roode slowly recovered, made a cover, and Storm escaped just before three. The action reset with Roode executing his Fisherman suplex finisher with a bridge pin for the win.

Post-match: Roode sold concern for Storm as he checked on him. Tenay said Angle was the difference-maker in this match-up and they don't know why Angle helped Roode.

WINNER: Roode at 14:52.

- The final segment:

Video footage: Hogan and Bischoff sitting in the bathroom talking up their plan to fake Hogan's retirement. Bischoff said he fooled everyone, including The Network. He said these hillbillies mortgaged their trailer homes to buy Hogan merchandise. Hogan mocked Knoxville as they cut to Hogan watching the footage, selling shock. Hogan called for the end of the footage as the crowd booed. Hogan told Sting he's crossed the line and broken every law in this business. "Hell no, I'll never wrestle you. But, I'll fight you at Bound for Glory!" Hogan screamed. In a red-faced rage, Hogan said that if Sting beats him, he'll give the company back to Sting and Dixie Carter. After blurting that out, Hogan covered his mouth. "Got what I wanted. Ta ta for now," Sting said into the ringside camera. Sting walked out of the ring as Tenay plugged the higher-stakes Sting-Hogan match at BFG.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 09 2011, 01:57 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-6-11

Quick results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_54050.shtml)

(1) Alex Riley beat JTG. Good match. Alex Riley showed a lot of intensity and was quite fluid in his execution.

(2) Mike McGillicutty beat Percy Watson. McGillicutty tried to pull off some sort of Edge-like “crazy eyes” thing, but it just made him look like he had too much hot sauce on his taco. Percy Watson continues to impress in the ring and his ability to get a crowd who never heard of him to rally behind him.

(3) A.J. beat Tamina. Tamina’s offense has improved. A.J. did a great job showing her personality by the way she carried herself, walked to the ring, celebrated after the win, etc. Matt Stiker had some worked-shoot-style comments on the walk-out from Raw, as well as some political commentary talking about socialism.

(4) Ted DiBiase beat Tyson Kidd. For some strange reason, the crowd was really behind DiBiase, lots of signs in the audience for him. This was taped in his home state, so that may have had something to do with it. Kidd, as always, was outstanding, and DiBiase did a good job as well. He doesn’t play a good face yet, though.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 09 2011, 02:02 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_54056.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SIN CARA

Mathews said Sin Cara azul put an end to the debate about who the real Sin Cara is. Headscissors by Cara, who impressively landed on his feet. Back handspring, but Del Rio caught him and gave him a German suplex. Cole said he wouldn’t be at Raw Monday unless Triple H stepped down. “Sin Cara” chants as Del Rio grounded Cara with a rear chinlock. Headbutt by Del Rio as Cara worked out of the move. Cara to the top, flying headscissors. The announcers emphasized that Del Rio was the leader of the walk-out, a good way to put him at the forefront of the angle after being lost in the shuffle on Raw. Cara went off the top, but Del Rio grabbed him by the arm (kind-of), and brought it down over his knees. Cross arm-breaker by Del Rio ended it.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 3:14. I don’t know if this speaks more to Cara’s place on the Smackdown roster at this point, or the fact that WWE realized they need to give Del Rio more credibility in order for him to be taken seriously as WWE champion.

After Del Rio and Rodriguez left, Mantaur’s music played. Whoops sorry, it was Sin Cara negro. He entered the ring and attacked the real Sin Cara. Cara negro finished original Cara with a Swanton.

2 – AIR BOOM vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER

Bourne was sitting at ringside, but was still being examined. Kofi’s adrenaline got the best of him and the heels took over when Ziggler got his foot up on a corner charge. “Vickie sucks” chant at Vickie Guerrero, who was at ringside with her charges. Back suplex by Ziggler. Cole said things were out-of-control again tonight with attacks and brawls already. Kofi flipped out of another suplex and the men met in the middle of the ring with a double clothesline at 2:15. Bourne popped up onto the apron out of nowhere and made the tag. He wasn’t selling the effects of the beating until he went for a dropkick on Swagger and came up holding the back of his head. Neck-breaker by Ziggler, then a Swagger Bomb for the win.

WINNERS: Swagger and Ziggler, at 3:08. Basic storytelling of the challengers getting a non-title win. The hypocrisy of Ziggler and Swagger creating chaos and a dangerous working environment when they were complaining about those issues earlier was not really touched on by the announcers – they focused on the overall idea of chaos erupting.

3 – BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX

Beth was flanked by Natalya on her way to the ring. Mathews said he heard Fox beat Booker on the golf course this week. Fox got a nice pop from the audio sweetener. Beth whipped Fox into the buckle, then did a split on the top rope and tried to roll Beth up. Beth put a stop to that and gave Fox the Glam Slam.

WINNER: Phoenix, at :35. I think Fox could be a nice protagonist for Beth and challenge for the Diva’s Title down the line.

Natalya locked Fox in the leg-lock and Beth got the mic. She put it in Fox’s face and told her to scream. Fox cried in agony as Natalya continued pulling on Fox’s arms and legs.

4 – JINDER MAHAL vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Mahal took offense to another knock-down once the match began. Knee-lifts by Mahal, but Jackson whipped Mahal into the ropes and gave him a back body-drop. Two bodyslams in a row followed, then a Torture Rack. Mahal snuck out the back and gave Jackson a jumping knee to the face. Mahal fell victim again to the bodyslams, this time four in number. Torture rack successfully applied and Mahal tapped.

WINNER: Jackson, at 2:06. Two guys running in quicksand here as far as their place on the card. Also, wisely kept short.

5 – CHRISTIAN & CODY RHODES vs. SHEAMUS & RANDY ORTON

Shoulder knock-down by Sheamus as Cole and Booker debated the walk-out on Raw. Sheamus tossed Rhodes over the title but Rhodes skinned the cat back in. Forearms across the chest by Sheamus. The crowd counted along with him. Knee-lift on the apron, but back in, Rhodes went after the legs. Christian provided a distraction at 1:35 and Rhodes took back over on offense. Back-drop by Sheamus and Rhodes landed on his butt. Both men made tags and Orton felled Christian with a powerslam. Leap-frog by Orton, followed by a back-drop. Orton hammered away on Christian’s skull in the corner, then landed the rope-assisted DDT. He set up for the RKO, but Rhodes distracted him and Christian slid out of the ring. Orton chased, but Rhodes distracted Orton again and Christian landed a baseball slide. Another abrupt break, at 3:33 of the match.

Back at 6:53 of the match. Christian was in control with a chinlock. Orton broke free, but Christian hit him high with a back elbow. Spinebuster by Christian to halt another Orton comeback. Christian lined Orton up for a Spear, but Orton booted him in the face. Hot tag made to Sheamus at 8:38. Rhodes came in as well, but Sheamus was a house of fire. He went to the top and missed the shoulder tackle – but he rolled through. Irish Curse back-breaker for two. Christian tried to interfere but Sheamus tossed him over the top. Orton tagged in while Sheamus dealt with Christian. Rhodes missed a clothesline, but Orton RKO’d him for the win.

WINNERS: Orton and Sheamus, at 9:48.

- Final segment was The Big Show confronting Mark Henry and as he stated earlier in the show, Show DID put Henry through the announcers table.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 12 2011, 10:49 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_54116.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results with condensed personal commentary by me in italics.

- Triple H came in alone while the wreslers and hired hands were outside on strike. Cena, Sheamus and Punk came in to stand by HHH's side and put on a match.

Hunter circled the ring and said he thinks what they should do is what they do every night on Monday Night Raw: we shut up and fight. Hunter told Sheamus he has a match tonight. He booked Sheamus one-on-one vs. John Cena. And, he'll referee it. As for "foxhole buddy," Hunter told Punk he has a whole table full of pipebombs and headsets to say whatever he wants. Punk just wanted to be able to wear Hunter's blazer and he was in. Hunter told Punk he also needs him to ring the bell. Punk asked for twice the pay and Hunter agreed. Punk then tentatively sounded the bell and the match was on.

1 -- JOHN CENA vs. SHEAMUS -- Triple H special referee -- Punk special guest timekeeper

After 50 seconds of basic action between Cena and Sheamus, Punk fed to the first break of the show 23 minutes into Raw.

Back from break, Punk told viewers not to adjust their TV sets. Punk noted they are in bizarre-world tonight. Suddenly, 4:23 into the match, No Chance In Hell hit. And out came Vince McMahon for his grand return. Punk said he was just trying to be a good commentator like Art Donovan of Rob Naylor. McMahon stepped into the ring and asked for a word with Triple H. He asked Cena and Sheamus to leave the ring. He thanked them for standing up for what they believe in, too. Punk also left the announce position as McMahon thanked the three of them.

WINNER: No Decision at 5:05 when McMahon cut the match off.

- Vince McMahon is back and informs Trips he's no longer in charge...He said the interim GM is John Laurinaitis INSERT FACEPALM!!!

2 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. CHRISTIAN (w/Jack Swagger, Cody Rhodes, and Dolph Ziggler)

Referee Charles Robinson was the assigned referee following the walk-out. Cole said the two Superstars are "wrestling" tonight in their street clothes. Christian's t-shirt was removed early on, but Christian came back with a spear after the heels distracted Morrison. Christian with the win after a minute.

WINNER: Christian at 1:11. WWE seems to be pushing Morrison out the door at this point based on the booking.

Post-match: Ziggler nailed his finisher on Morrison. Rhodes followed with Cross Rhodes. Swagger then dropped Morrison with a gutwrench powerbomb. Ross slipped in a Doctor Bomb reference. Nice. Christian, Ziggler, Rhodes, and Swagger then stood tall in the ring and stood over Morrison before Swagger's music played.

3 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. RANDY ORTON -- non-title match

The match was joined in progress back from break. After a back-and-forth, Cody Rhodes tried to interfere, but Orton threw him away. Orton then countered the World's Strongest Slam into the RKO. Orton had the pin on Henry, but Rhodes interfered, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Orton tried to line up Henry or Rhodes for a Punt, but Henry dropped Orton with the World's Strongest Slam. He actually tried to make a cover, but the match had been ruled a DQ. Henry took out his frustration with another World's Strongest Slam on Orton. After Henry left, Rhodes picked up the scraps with Cross Rhodes on Orton. Rhodes then called for a bag to place over Orton's head. Rhodes took the mic and said if you cut the head off the viper, all the venom goes with it. Rhodes asked Orton if he would like a receipt with his paper bag. He cackled maniacally before his music played and Rhodes bailed from the ring.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 3:25. Henry was given a chance to get his heat back in the post-match, but odd booking of him taking so much offense from Orton. Granted, it's #2 top star Orton, but WWE isn't protecting Henry as much as they should be. The transition to Orton-Rhodes gives the two men something to work with near the main event scene. As for the booking of the wrestling matches themselves on this show, why would anyone ever spend money on a wrestling show again after this night? Awful.

4 -- KELLY KELLY & EVE vs. ROSA MENDES & TAMINA

Back from break, all four Divas were in the ring. The heels isolated Kelly early on before the action broke down. Eve, who tagged in before the chaos, nailed a top-rope moonsault for the win. After the finish, Divas champ Beth Phoenix and Natalya were shown watching on a monitor.

WINNERS: Eve & Kelly at 2:15. Apparently this puts Eve in position for the next Divas Title shot?

- Laurinaitis calls Jim Ross into the ring...Yep, you guessed it...YOU'RE FIRED!!!

5 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER & DAVID OTUNGA (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. MASON RYAN & WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) -- six-man tag match

After 1:25 of basic action, they cut to break with the two sides arguing on the floor. More counter-productive presentation of wrestling on this show tonight.

Back from break four minutes later, Ryan took a hot tag and almost dropped Swagger on his head. He then completely whiffed on some corner punches and kicks. Kofi then tagged in and the heels worked him over before Ryan took another tag. Cole went overboard trying to enhance Ryan as he delivered offense. The action broke down before Ryan delivered a swinging sidewalk slam on Ziggler for the pin and the win. Cue up Vickie's screaming and Ryan's awful new theme music. Post-match: Kofi and Ryan checked on Bourne, who took a huge powerbomb from Swagger during the chaos.

WINNERS: Team Ryan at 8:23. I didn't think this show could get any worse, then WWE trotted out Mason Ryan and tried to put him over at the expense of five other more deserving wrestlers.

6 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match

Cole said this match renews the "long history" between Del Rio and Punk. Cole went all the way back to Summerslam two months ago for the start of their long history. Punk and Del Rio went back and forth early on after Del Rio tried to stall on the outside following early offense from Punk. Punk then went flying to the outside and Laurinaitis suddenly walked out on-stage. He ended the match right now.

WINNER: Match stopped at 4:18.

Post-match: Laurinaitis announced a tag match right now involving two men he re-instated. Long, awkward pause. It's like he was waiting for music to play. Laurinaitis said it's Miz and R-Truth. Miz walked out on-stage before Truth followed behind and they rapped their way to the ring. The crowd didn't seem to care. And another break.

6b -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO & C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH

The match was joined in progress back from break. Cole went through the recent history of Del Rio being assaulted by Miz and Truth after Hell in a Cell. After Miz and Truth dominated early on, Del Rio and Punk put aside their "long feud" and exchanged tags to begin working over Miz.

At the top of the hour, Lawler went back to his thoughts about someone trying to sabotage this show to get Triple H fired. Cole then reset the show, informing viewers of the headlines from this show: Triple H fired, Laurinaitis in as GM. Also, Rhodes putting a paper bag over Orton's head and Jim Ross fired. No surprise - no mention of the two PPV main events announced tonight. Meanwhile, Del Rio decided to walk away from ringside, leaving Punk alone in the match. The crowd tried to rally with a "C-M-Punk" chant as the heels worked over Punk. Punk made a comeback on Miz with a Macho Man elbow drop before trying the G2S, but Truth broke it up. Miz and Truth then double-teamed Punk, so ref Charles Robinson threw out the match.

WINNER: Punk via DQ at 8:03.

Post-match: Triple H, in street clothes, stormed the ring and destroyed Miz and Truth. Miz tried to escape through the crowd, but Hunter yanked him back to ringside and threw him into the ring steps. Punk then flung Truth over the announce table. Truth escaped through the crowd, though. Miz bailed, too. Hunter and Punk then re-assembled together in the ring. Cue up Hunter's theme music.

Backstage: Otunga and Laurinaitis were shown watching the happenings. Laurinaitis said he's going to ask the board about booking Punk and Triple H together as allies against Miz and Truth at Vengeance. Otunga liked the idea. Back live, Cole acted like the match is official as Hunter and Punk posed in the ring to close the show eight minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 12 2011, 10:55 am
ROH TV Results: 10-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_54119.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - ANDY RIDGE vs. TOMASSO CIAMPA (w/The Embassy)


Corino put over Ciampa on commentary as he delivered a clothesline to Ridge. Ridge blocked a suplex and both men brawled on the apron. Ridge hit several kicks, but Ciampa fired back with a series of chops. Ridge won the exchanges with a clothesline. Ciampa fired right back and tripped Ridge on the apron before swinging him into the barricade at ringside. Ouch! Corino talked about how talented Ciampa was, but if he continued to listen to Nana, he wouldn’t get anywhere. Corino referenced Kevin Steen without using his name, so Kelly quickly cut him off. Ciampa worked a headlock, but Ridge fired back with a chin breaker followed by a series of kicks. Ridge followed up with a springboard ace crusher for a 2 count. They showed the tweet of the week. It was better than the one they used last week, but totally useless.

Ciampa fired back with a series of running knees in the corner. He followed up with project Ciampa for the win.

Winner: Tomasso Ciampa

2 - - DAVEY RICHARDS vs. RODERICK STRONG – ROH World Title match

Strong took Richards down to the mat early, but Richards drove him into the ropes. Strong slapped Richards across the face after the broke apart. A heavy chant for Richards broke out as both men circled each other in the middle of the ring. Both men exchanged counters and came to a stalemate and the crowd applauded. Richards caught Strong in a submission on the mat. Strong countered with a submission of his own on Richards. Richards escaped and grounded Strong with an arm submission as the crowd clapped. Richards went for an ankle lock, but Strong shoved him to the floor. Both men ended up on the floor and Richards lit up Strong with kicks as Kelly talked about Richards’s training camp in preparation for the match.

Strong fired back with a kick and tossed Richards into the guardrail. Both men exchanged chops on the floor and Strong won the battle with a huge chop. They continued to go at it on the floor with Richards whipping Strong into the guardrail and following up with a running kick to the head. The announcers said both men were fighting for the biggest prize in wrestling. Strong snapped Richards’s neck over the top rope from the outside and went on the attack. Kelly referenced McGuinness as being a former ROH World Champion. Both men brawled up top and Richards hit an enzuguri that sent Strong to the floor. Richards got distracted by Martini and Strong nailed him with a kick from the apron as they went to break with a nearfall.

They came back from the break with Strong in control. They showed two small boxes with the “live” action and highlights from action during the break that saw Strong win an exchange of blows with a dropkick. They went back to live action with Richards hitting a suplex as the crowd applauded. Both men recovered and began exchanging blows in the middle of the ring. Richards won the exchange with two big kicks. Richards kicked Strong to the outside and nailed him with a running kick on the apron. Richards followed up with a dive through the ropes and the crowd went nuts, although the sound was low for the pop.

Richards went up top and hit a missile dropkick inside the ring for a nearfall. Strong and Richards exchanged blows in the center of the ring. Davey hit a series of slaps and nailed Strong with a running forearm and a suplex for a 2 count. The crowd chanted “this is awesome” as Richards went on the attack. Strong fired back and caught Richards with a powerslam for a 2 count. Strong went for a backbreaker, but Richards caught him in a pinning combination for a 2 count. Strong fired back with a big kick for a 2 count. Richards hit a backbreaker on the apron and rolled Richards back into the apron for a nearfall. Strong hit a kick, but Richards hit the alarm clock. Richards then caught Strong with a lariat that left both men down on the mat. The crowd chanted for Richards as he struggled to his feet.

They came to the middle of the ring and exchanged blows again. Richards sold a forearm and returned the favor to Strong, who went down to a knee. Strong hit a chop and Richards fired up and nailed him with a kick. Kelly said they were running low on TV time. He said the match would continue next week if they ran out of time. Strong caught Richards with a kick in the corner and followed up with a gut buster for a nearfall. The fans chanted “this is awesome.” Richards ducked a charge in the corner and hit a running knee. Richards put Strong on the top turnbuckle and nailed him with a superplex. He held on and hit a falcon arrow for a 2 count. Richards then grabbed an ankle lock, but Strong fought out of it. Strong went for another gut buster, but Richards caught him with an ankle lock. Richards grapevine the leg and Martini got on the apron as Strong tapped. Richards chased Martini into the ring and ducked a clothesline from Strong. Richards took out Strong and went after Martini. Richards sent Martini out of the ring and walked right into the sick kick from Strong for another nearfall. Strong applied the Stronghold, but Richards countered it into the ankle lock. Strong pushed him off, but Richards hit a kick. Strong spit at Richards and slapped him in the face. Richards fired back with a roundhouse kick to the head, but Strong kicked out. Richards then got the ankle lock and grapevined the leg for the tap out.

Winner: Davey Richards to retain the ROH World Title

Star rating: (***1/4) – This was the best match ROH has presented on television so far. Strong and Richards delivered some really good in-ring action, but the shenanigans with Martini and too many nearfalls watered things down a bit.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2011, 10:26 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 10-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54203.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - A.J. vs. MAXINE

Back from break, Maxine is in control of A.J. and gets a nearfall. Maxine with her almost Sheamus-like offense, pounding on A.J. while she is tied up in the ropes. Regal gives us another story about one of Maxine's exotic relatives. Maxine continues to abuse A.J. Maxine with a nice-looking suplex for two, and her third resthold of the three-minute match. The crowd rallies behind A.J. as Maxine tries Ten Punches, but A.J. throws her off and goes up top. A.J. with a high crossbody for one, and a spinner heel kick for two. A.J. fires up, but Maxine ducks a punch and turns it into a backbreaker. A.J. with a Shining Wizard out of nowhere for two.

WINNER: A.J. in 5:00. Maxine has good brawling offense, but she needs to speed it up and use fewer holds. A.J.'s flexibility gives her that Evan Bourne quality of selling submission holds really well. A.J. has amazing charisma and get get anyone to want to cheer for her without a second of mic time. They're still learning to put on a good match, but the raw talent is there.

2 - THE USOS vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Jey Uso starts off strong against Curt. They do some back-and-forth tags to wear down Hawkins. The crowd is dead. Jimmy accidentally lets Reks tag in and Reks overpowers Jimmy. Jimmy turns the tide and Hawkins tags in, and gets punished, too. The faces continue to isolate Hawkins, in a total reversal of roles in the typical WWE tag match. Reks breaks up a pin and Hawkins gets cleared from the ring. Jey with a huge over the top rope dive onto Curt at ringside.

Hawkins is still in trouble, but finally tags Reks in. Reks and Hawkins isolate their opponent. Hawkins and Reks drag out the typical heel beat down. There's just not enough crowd involvement to make this feel exciting. Regal says that Reks is using a hold he liked to use, and that he's glad that the new Superstars are studying the veterans. Jey finally tags Jimmy in who takes down Reks and knocks Hawkins out of the ring. Stinkface gets two. He goes up top but Reks transitions the crossbody into a powerslam, so very sweet. Reks ducks a superkick and hoists him up for the Burning Hammer, but he slips out and tag in, hit Reks with a double superkick, then hit Reks with a double Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos in 10:00. The long periods of isolation by both teams was slow, but the ending was hot, especially the crossbody reversal into a powerslam. It was also good to see both Hawkins and Reks get some mic time before the match.

3 -- PERCY WATSON (w/Titus O'Neil) vs. DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Maxine)

Watson and Bateman start off with some chain wrestling going both ways. Percy shows off his big dropkick. Watson looks like he is going for a moonsault and Bateman dropkicks him from behind. Bateman with a gutbuster that looked weak. The announcers say that Bateman's covers are slow, and they're right, Regal says they point it out to help them learn. Bateman with more basic offense.

Percy with a bone-crushing crossbody for two. Bateman bounces right back though. Bateman with an abdominal stretch and Percy sells it like it is the worse pain ever, but hip tosses himself out. Bateman with a nice dropkick of his own and a powerslam, but whiffs on an elbow drop, allowing Percy to get back to his feet. Percy with some offense and he gets the crowd fired up. He does his jumping lateral press for two. Bateman with a gordbuster and Korpella attributes it to watching old tapes. Percy with a huge flapjack, and some sort of finisher (like a suplex/flapjack) for the win.

WINNER: Percy Watson in 8:00. Much better match than I expected. Both Bateman and Watson have the athletic talent, it's just a matter of them needing some spit and polish.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2011, 10:26 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_54238.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - SANTINO MARELLA vs. JTG

Santino starts off by threatening JTG with slaps and the Cobra, backing him to the ropes a number of times. Santino with a drop toehold, then spins himself on JTG’s back. JTG gets frustrated and goes on the attack. Santino with a hip toss and a powerslam and readies the Cobra, but JTG gets to the corner, then ambushes Santino as he deals with the ref. JTG with his basic heel offense. Backbreaker gets JTG two. Scott Stanford makes a series of “JTG’s so fly…” and “JTG’s so cool…” jokes. The crowd rallies behind Santino, and he does some punches, the split, the hip toss, but whiffs on the Sailor Salute Headbutt. Santino with a stunner, then the Cobra is ready, it connects, and Santino gets the win. “Good night Irene” from Stanford.

WINNER: Santino Marella in 5:00. Basic match to get Santino some ring time and expose live crowds to JTG as a heel. JTG’s offense is so bland, though. It was refreshing to hear the announcers focus on this match, not the Raw drama from Monday night.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Riley’s pop sounded fairly genuine, not sweetened like most on Superstars are. Last week, he seemed over with the crowd, too. The match started with a quick lock-up before McIntyre put Riley in the corner and celebrated. He backs off, then the two men chain wrestle, but Drew cheapshots Riley as the ref pulls them apart. Quick, hard-hitting, back and forth. Riley with Ten Punches in the corner, then some sort of move to drive Drew’s head into the match. Riley springboards over the top rope to Drew on the ground, but Drew shoves his face into the apron. Stanford throws to a commercial, which doesn’t happen.

Back from the false break, Drew is in control. He does a neat suplex, almost an inside-out suplex. And then he slows it down with an armbar. The crowd gets behind Riley and Drew cuts off the comeback. Drew stays in control and the ref has to repeatedly warn him to listen to his instructions. Riley’s still wearing “VV” on his trunks, which stands for “Varsity Villain,” which was his NXT gimmick. I guess his new trunks were in the wash. Alex with a pair of clotheslines then an AA Spinebuster. Floating DDT from A-Ry for two. Stanford calls him a “Pu Pu Platter of talent.” I can’t make this stuff up. Drew with the sky-high spinebuster for two. Scott says that he is listed on a Chinese restaurant as “Sum Dumb Guy.” Alex tries a backslide, but Drew rolls through and transitions to the Future Shock DDT. Alex powers out and turns it into a Samoan Drop. Slick sequence. This somehow gets the win.

WINNER: Alex Riley in 10:00. Who wins with a Samoan Drop? Outside of that, this was a good match. Drew has improved so much since his debut, culminating with his outstanding Elimination Chamber role earlier this year, and Alex Riley is becoming a reliable wrestler. Both have a long future ahead of them, they both have mic skills and ring skills. Effective match to get them some time.

3 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. HEATH SLATER

Jackson makes fun of Slater, then shushes him like he did to Jindal Mahal. Slater tries to attack him, but Jackson knocks him silly. Zeke with unimaginative power offense and the announcers try to give him a personality. Torture Rack, but Slater slips out. Another false commercial break, and Jackson is bulldozing Slater still. Slater finally gets some offense in and shows a lot of fire. Zeke throws him into the corner, but Slater catches him in the eye and hits a tornado DDT for two. Slater tries a rear chinlock. Jackson fights out but Slater connects with a low dropkick for two and another chinlock. Slater keeps him down after Jackson fights out, and goes for a third chinlock. Zeke stands up and backs into the turnbuckle to knock Slater off, then gets a big backbreaker. Zeke with the corner clothesline, then the torture rack for the tap out.

WINNER: Ezekiel Jackson in 5:00. How is Heath Slater a heel, when he’s almost always the smaller man in the ring, and he gets beat up for most of his matches? He’s more like the Little Engine that Couldn’t.

[YOUTUBE]-q1uCtfaFnc[/YOUTUBE]
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2011, 10:28 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 10-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_54235.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- A.J. STYLES & ROB VAN DAM vs. DANIELS & JERRY LYNN

RVD ran to the ring shortly after the bell sounded to help even out the heels's unfair advantage. The heels eventually cheated to re-take the advantage and begin working on Van Dam. Styles took a hot tag at 3:30 and delivered trademark offense, but Daniels countered the trademark reverse DDT and tagged in Lynn. Styles simply delivered a trademark dropkick to Lynn before the action broke down. The action then moved to the floor, so Styles splashed everyone with a flip dive on the outside. Back in the ring, Styles dropped Daniels with a springboard forearm smash. Lynn then took a Pele kick. He wanted the Clash on Lynn and Daniels bailed from the ring as Styles delivered. Styles then made the cover as he stared down Daniels to set up their match on Sunday.

WINNERS: Styles & RVD at 5:49. Strong build-up to Styles-Daniels; not so much for Lynn-RVD, which is supposed to be a grudge feud after Lynn screwed Van Dam out of the Bound for Glory Series, but RVD's character was booked like it was another day at the office despite having an opportunity to really get his hands on Lynn before the PPV. (*3/4)

2 -- SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN

Morgan dropped Joe face-first into the turnbuckle before delivering his trademark rapid-fire elbows in the corner. Morgan tried to follow with charging offense, but Joe delivered a drop toehold into the turnbuckle. Joe then went to work on Morgan as a giant ticket graphic for TNA's upcoming live events blocked the action. Morgan showed agility leap-frogging Joe from the top turnbuckle and rolling up Joe from behind for a quick three count.

WINNER: Morgan at 2:07.

Post-match: Joe clipped Morgan from behind, targeting the knee. Joe slapped on a submission hold and Morgan tapped as Joe tried to injure his opponent on Sunday. Crimson, in street clothes and limping from last week, made the save with chair in-hand. On the stage, Joe took the mic and said he figured this out: it's an old-fashioned game of King of the Jungle. Joe said he sees two beta males who are afraid to face each other, so they're getting together to go after the Alpha ***-kicker. Joe booked the triple threat match for the PPV and told them they can either be the Alpha or be friends. Nice psychology from Joe setting up the three-way.

3 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES & KID KASH vs. JESSE SORENSEN & BRIAN KENDRICK

Once the action actually entered the ring, Sorensen was quickly isolated by the heels. Sorensen eventually tagged in Kendrick and the action broke down. In the confusion, Aries tried a belt shot, but Kendrick ducked and nailed Sliced Bread #2. Kendrick with the pin for the win. "Kendrick just pinned the champion," Tenay declared before Kendrick picked up the title belt and danced around with it. Kendrick then dropped the belt on Aries's chest.

WINNERS: Kendrick & Sorensen at 4:28. A rushed, basic match to set up Kendrick-Aries at the PPV.

4 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. SCOTT STEINER -- Bully Ray ringside enforcer

The bell sounded with two men squaring off inside the ring. Refreshing. Anderson then distracted himself with Ray ringside, allowing Steiner to attack Anderson and begin working him over. Steiner mixed in some push-ups and cut off Anderson as he tried to nip at his heels. Steiner then ripped off some chops and Steiner paused to tell the crowd to shut up as they whoo'ed. Amazing timing. "Three days!" Ray shouted toward Anderson from ringside. Steiner went back to work on Anderson, who came back with a neckbreaker for a two count. Anderson then slipped to the outside and punched Ray in the face.

Back in the ring, Steiner low-blowed Anderson right in front of the ref, who just let it go. Has to be at least one instance of referee incompetence per match in TNA. Suddenly, Abyss came to ringside and wrapped a chain around his fist. He measured Anderson for a blow, but Anderson ducked and Steiner took the chain shot. Anderson discarded Abyss, then pinned Steiner for the win.

WINNER: Anderson at 4:03. Was this a double-secret No DQ match?

Post-match: Anderson smiled toward Ray as he bailed from ringside. Back in the ring, Ray screamed at Abyss before Gunner and Jeff Jarrett hit the ring. Jarrett shoved Abyss and asked him what's wrong with him. Jarrett talked trash and Ray told him to stop screwing up. Abyss took his bullying from Bully Ray in-stride before having enough and grabbing Ray around the throat. Immortal beat down Abyss, though, before Abyss could inflict any damage. They dismantled Abyss before Ray brought a table into the ring. Anderson stormed the ring to make the save, but Immortal beat him down and Ray put Anderson through the table. "Three days!" Ray shouted toward Anderson as the cameras picked up on the carnage in the ring with Anderson and Abyss KO'ed in the ring.

5 -- ROBERT ROODE vs. JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) & GUNNER -- handicap match

In the ring, Roode took apart Gunner before Jarrett tripped Roode from behind on the floor. The distraction allowed the heels to deliver a two-on-one beating. Apparently no tags are required here. The most heat was on Karen ringside as Gunner and Jarrett wore down Roode in the ring. Jarrett then mocked the Beer...Money chant, which led to Roode popping up from behind. Roode, infuriated, shot a double bird, before delivering big clotheslines. Roode then clotheslined Gunner over the top rope to the floor. Jarrett tried The Stroke, but Roode blocked and nailed a Double R spinebuster. Roode followed with a Crossface right in front of Karen. Gunner broke it up, though, so Roode slapped the Crossface on Gunner. Gunner tapped after a few moments, giving Roode another win.

Post-match: Roode smashed Jarrett with right hands after Jarrett tried to attack Roode. Ray then stormed the ring to low-blow Roode. Steiner followed with an attack on Roode. James Storm then hit the ring to make the save for Roode. However, the numbers advantage gave Immortal control again. Angle then slowly made his way to the ring as the heels held up Roode for Angle to deliver a KO blow.

However, Jeff Hardy's music hit and he stormed the ring to clean house. Hardy stomped and kicked the crap out of Ray before dropping Double J with the Twist of Fate. Hardy stood tall in the ring as Beer Money recovered and Immortal retreated on the floor. Once the dust settled, Storm took exception to Hardy's involvement. Roode was more understanding, though. Storm cut off a handshake, but Roode accepted. Hardy then tried to leave the ring, but Storm cut him off. Storm frowned at Hardy, but then joined Roode in holding up Hardy's hand. They hugged it out before Hardy posed in the ring, with the spotlight on him. Roode got a brief camera shot before TNA cut backstage.

WINNER: Roode at 3:58. So, is it Hardy vs. Angle at the PPV? Not in favor of adding this many players to the mix after the solid work in the opening segment to hype Angle vs. Roode and getting over Roode's toughness in this match. This is a flashback to TNA's past when they would add one (or ten) too many ingredients to the mix and ruin the stew.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2011, 12:46 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-14-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_54272.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – 41-MAN BATTLE ROYAL

Cody Rhodes was first out at :09, via Randy Orton. I don’t think anyone would’ve guessed that. Johnny Curtis followed :25 in, as Drew McIntyre tossed him. John Morrison tried to pull Jack Swagger out with an assist from Yoshi Tatsu. David Otunga held on after Santino Marella tried to get rid of him. JTG was out at 1:26 thanks to Wade Barrett. Michael McGillicutty out at 1:40 via Kofi Kingston. Derrick Bateman out at 1:50 via Titus O’Neil. Swagger eliminated O’Neil at 2:00. Tatsu out a second or two after that, I believe by Curt Hawkins. Striker out at 2:30 by his NXT broadcast partner William Regal. Booker thought Striker could’ve lasted longer, to which Cole said, “Booker, you’re an idiot.” Primo landed on the apron as Justin Gabriel tried to get rid of him. Many wrestlers ended up on the apron as they went to break at 3:16.

Back just after 6:00 in, as Mathews said they were down to 32 superstars. Regal out via his mentor Daniel Bryan at 6:50. Percy Watson out at 7:11 by a slew of people, John Morrison at 7:22 by Ziggler and Swagger, and Dolph Ziggler at 7:24 by Zack Ryder. That would be a big deal if anyone mentioned that. Trent Barreta out at 8:09 by Awesome Truth, then one of the Usos at 8:24, thanks to Miz. CM Punk and Randy Orton were both teetering on the top rope as they battled. Ted DiBiase out at 8:56 as Zeke Jackson tossed him. Tyson Kidd out at 9:06 by the Miz. Another break at 9:39.

Back at 13:36 with Christian in trouble by Ryder. Daniel Bryan out at 13:46. Gabriel kicked McIntyre in the head to work his way back in. Mason Ryan tossed Tyler Reks at 14:43, then Curt Hawkins at 14:45. McIntyre back-dropped out by Ryan at 15:03. Ryan pressed Gabriel over his head at 15:14 and tossed him to the floor. Barrett came from behind Ryan and pushed him out at 15:20. Primo held on but Ryder kicked him out at 15:45. Santino attempted the Cobra, but Christian punched him in the face to send him to the showers at 16:06. Alex Riley out via Miz at 16:21. Zack Ryder and Jinder Mahal went at it as Kofi tried to grab Swagger and eliminate him. Instead, Swagger got Kofi in the ankle-lock at pushed him out at 17:21. Ryder out at 17:39. Otunga out via Sheamus at 17:51, then one of the Usos by Sheamus at 17:59. Sheamus clotheslined Jackson out at 18:08 after a failed Torture Rack. Brogue Kick to Heath Slater, who sold it like a champ at 18:20. Sheamus powerbombed evil Sin Cara on those who were eliminated at 18:35. After a brief face-off, Christian went out by the hand of Sheamus at 19:08. Down to eight Superstars. Punk went after Miz and Truth. Truth out at 19:27 by Punk, Punk at 19:30 by Miz. Barrett and Sheamus matched up in the near corner. Also remaining: Swagger, Mahal, Miz. Sheamus out via Christian at 20:07. Sheamus chased the already-eliminated Christian to the back. Barrett out at 20:29, then Swagger at 20:37 after an RKO by Orton. Mahal was out by Orton at 20:40, as Orton thought he was the last one. But Miz popped back up and tried to toss Orton out. Orton held on. Orton went all Vintage Orton here. Skull-Crushing Finale avoided, but neither man would fold. They ended up on the apron, hammering away on one other. Orton hit the RKO on Miz on the apron, and both men fell to the floor. The announcers played up that they weren’t sure who won. Eventually, it was decided (and confirmed on replay) that Orton won.

WINNER: Orton, at 22:37. Fine battle royal, and I don’t mind having lower-card guys involved to get some rare air-time. WWE has been close to overdoing battle royals lately, though.

2 – BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY

Strangely, this was not billed as a Diva’s Championship match, so this isn’t Kelly’s rematch that she’d presumably get. Cole once again talked of Kelly’s “serious anger issues” as she smiled to all the fans while she walked to the ring. Beth went right after Kelly and choked her in the corner, treating her like a rag-doll. Kelly turned things around and put the boots to Beth. Phoenix put the brakes on a headscissors attempt. Phoenix trash-talked as Cole put over Beth and Nattie’s “Sisters of Salvation” nickname. What happened to the “Divas of Doom”? Spinning DDT by Kelly on Beth that took a while to get going. Beth played defense and Kelly ended up on the apron. Phoenix dragged Kelly into the ring from that spot and gave Kelly the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Phoenix, at 1:51. Again, strange that if they were going to put Beth over again, why not make it Kelly’s rematch clause? If they went to the rematch now, it wouldn’t make sense because Kelly just lost in a non-title match. And if they wanted to move on from Kelly, why not just do that and not job Kelly here? Oh well.

3 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. SIN CARA NEGRO

Cara Negro wore the Cara Azul mask. Booker wouldn’t even concede that Sin Cara Azul is the real Sin Cara. Cole again gave the back-story on both Caras, dating back to Mexico. Gabriel dropkicked Cara out of the ring, then performed a twisting splash over the top rope and onto his opposition. Back in the ring, Gabriel came off the top and Cara dropkicked him in the chest. The two hammered away on each other in the middle of the ring. Powerbomb by Gabriel for two. Gabriel again went to the top, but Cara tripped him up. Cara ascended the top rope and landed a diving Swanton bomb for the win.

WINNER: Cara, at 1:35. They had a few weeks where it looked like Gabriel would be built up a little. I guess that’s out the window, even though it was good to get Cara Negro a win.

4 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SHEAMUS

Cole complained about this match being made, and Booker said it was all about ratings and that Long is doing a fantastic job. Ugh. Mathews noted that both men are two-time WWE Champions. Shoulder knock-down by Sheamus early on. I felt like I was watching a prison movie as I saw Sheamus struggle to lift Del Rio’s arms while he was in the ropes in order to bash him over the chest with forearms. Sheamus missed a charge in the corner and Del Rio came off the turnbuckle with a dropkick. Arm-bar applied by Del Rio. Del Rio brought Sheamus’ arm across his knees to continue softening up that part of his body. Sheamus caught Del Rio charging at him, then knocked Del Rio down with a few Irish Hammers. Irish Curse back-breaker by Sheamus for two. Sheamus went to the top rope, but Ricardo Rodriguez got on the apron. The ref dealt with him as Christian, from out of nowhere, knocked Sheamus off his perch. Del Rio gave Sheamus an enziguiri, then once back in the middle of the ring, kicked him in the head for the pinfall.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 3:57. Even with Christian’s interference, too quick for a match with men of this caliber. Good to see Del Rio get the pinfall win though.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 15 2011, 12:47 pm
WWE Smackdown Results (continued)

5 – JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. KOFI KINGSTON & ZACK RYDER

WWE had to ruin another theme song by adding Ryder’s catchphrase to the beginning of his theme song, something they do way too often. It’s like some of the cool t-shirt designs they’ve had that are ruined by the giant WWE logo on the shirt. Face-plant by Ryder, but Swagger reversed things and gave Ryder a belly-to-belly throw. Ziggler tagged in and connected on a neck-breaker for two. Kofi tagged in and did his signature spots. He did a suicide dive onto both Ziggler and Swagger outside the ring as they went to break.

Ziggler was in control of Kofi upon return, and they showed how the heels took over during break. Evan Bourne was out there to try to offset Vickie’s presence. Fameasser for two by Ziggler, then Swagger tagged in. Slam by Swagger for two. Kofi fought back and neared a tag, but Swagger grabbed him and sent him back-first into a neutral corner. Kofi was set on the top rope, but he fired back with a Tornado DDT. Both men were down and needing to make a tag. Both men did, and Ryder cleaned house on Ziggler. Broski boot by Ryder, then a pin, which got two. Ziggler created some separation to land a dropkick. Booker called him “Zig Zag Man.” Rough Ryder was countered into a sleeper hold. Ryder began to fade, but he threw Ziggler off and shoulder-first into the ring post. Ryder tried to regain his bearings and make a tag to Kingston. As he closed in on a tag, Swagger knocked Kingston off the apron. Kingston got back into the ring and gave Ziggler a Trouble in Paradise as the ref got Swagger back to his corner. Ryder made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Ryder and Kingston. Hey, at least the Smackdown writers didn’t forget that Ryder and Ziggler had a feud going. Would’ve been nice if the Raw writers had remembered.

6 – MARK HENRY vs. RANDY ORTON – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

During Orton’s entrance, they showed Cody Rhodes bagging him on Raw this past week. Orton jabbed and ran to start, then tried to clothesline Henry. It didn’t move him. European uppercuts by Orton, and a kick took him down to one knee. He tried a low DDT, but Henry shoved Orton off and to ringside. Orton landed a few punches outside the ring, but Henry headbutted him. Henry picked Orton up and rammed him shoulder-first into the ring-post. Pin back in the ring only got the big man a two-count. Orton ran right into Henry, and the girth sent Orton back to the mat. Henry stood on Orton’s back near the ropes. Headbutt by Henry in the middle of the ring. Another rest-hold and again Orton worked out. Orton pounded away on Henry in the corner. Henry came back and dropped an elbow on Orton for only a two-count. Final break taken at 9:52 EST, 4:28 into the match.

Back at 7:25 of the contest. Henry was still in control, with the pace of the match having slowed to a crawl. Powerslam by Henry. He put two hands on Orton’s chest for the pin, and Orton kicked out. Henry choked Orton in the ropes by putting one of his giant legs over Orton’s neck. Bodyslam by Henry, then a big splash. That was a near-fall at 8:59 of the match. Henry dragged Orton to the corner, where he set up for a second-rope splash. Orton got his feet up however and tried to take the big man down. Dropkick did it, 9:44 in. Cody Rhodes ran out and got to the apron. Orton tried to set up his DDT, but Henry attacked from behind. The ref rang the bell for a DQ.

WINNER: Orton, via DQ, at 10:01.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2011, 01:10 pm
TNA Bound For Glory PPV Results: 10-16-11 (Next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_54312.shtml)

Mike Tenay and Taz hyped the pre-show match for the TNA Tag Titles. Out first was Ink, Inc. to challenge for the Tag Titles. Neal brought an American flag with him to the ring before Mexican America came out in possession of a Mexican flag.

A -- TNA tag champions MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/Rosita and Sarita) vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL w/Christina Von Eerie) -- TNA Tag Title match

One minute, 15 seconds for the first outside interference and referee distraction of the night. Moments later, there was a spot where Moore appeared to be legit KO'ed, as Anarquia made a cover and pretty much had to pull off the pin because Moore wasn't responding. The match continued with Mexican America still working over Moore. Moore eventually scored with a desperation moonsault to make the tag to Neal, who cleaned house. Neal then scored with a spear and appeared to score a pin, but Anarquia apparently broke up the pin in time.

The action momentarily broke down before Neal missed with a splash on the outside. Moore then hit a moonsault on Anarquia, leaving bodies everywhere. Hernandez was the last man standing and airballed a big dive on the floor. Suddenly, the women were in the ring. Sure, why not. Von Eerie ripped off Sarita's mask and slammed her. Anarquia and Von Eerie were left in the ring, where Von Eerie pantsed Anarquia. Tenay and Taz had no idea what to say here. In all of the confusion, Hernandez rolled up Neal from behind for the win.

WINNERS: Mexican America at 8:02 to retain the Tag Titles. What a mess. Why would anyone spend $35 on the subsequent PPV broadcast after watching that on the pre-show? Unbelievable incompetence from TNA that made the product look like a joke.

1 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. BRIAN KENDRICK -- X Division Title match

The crowd established early on they were in favor of Aries and not in favor of Kendrick, who was booed by the vocal males when he scored early offense. Aries was cheered when he returned fire and scored close nearfalls. Kendrick came back with a pin attempt following a Tornado DDT, which led to an audible "Aries, Aries" chant. Aries then nailed a flying suicide dive on the floor. Back in the ring, Aries landed a flying dropkick in the corner. He wanted a brainbuster, but Kendrick countered with knees to the head for a two count. Aries then blocked Sliced Bread #2, but Kendrick nailed it on a second attempt. He made a cover, but Aries grabbed the bottom rope just in time. "Austin Aries" chant before Aries blocked a Sliced Bread attempt from the ring apron to the floor. Back in the ring, Aries executed another corner dropkick before delivering a brainbuster suplex. Aries made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Aries at 10:28. Very good match to start the PPV. Nice finishing sequence and the crowd was fully invested, not just because of Aries, but the good action. (**3/4)

2 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. JERRY LYNN -- Full Metal Mayhem match

A ton of counters and not a lot of mayhem to start things off. After two stand-offs following counter exchanges, the two men collided near the ropes and kind of fell to the outside. RVD tried a springboard moonsault from the guardrail, but Lynn moved and RVD ate the padding. As RVD sold the effects, Lynn pulled out a ladder and slid it into the ring. A chair was also introduced into the proceedings. Meanwhile, RVD randomly posed for and talked to the ringside fans.

Back in the ring, the two men then traded chair-assisted offense, continuing the match theme of there being numerous counters. This was followed by a chair toss to the head by Lynn to RVD. There should be a fine attached to that until people learn. Lynn then introduced a second ladder, leading to a dangerous spot when Lynn tried a sunset flip powerbomb onto the ladder, but completely missed and RVD ate the ringside guardrail on the back of his neck. Back in the ring, RVD recovered and delivered a Van Terminator sending a chair into a ladder into Lynn's face. Lynn sold unconsciousness as the crowd popped. RVD then made a cover on Lynn for the pin and the win. Afterward, RVD and Lynn sold respect before Lynn left the ring and RVD celebrated.

WINNER: RVD at 13:15. The presentation from TNA was this was "fun to go back in time," but this set the wrestling industry back two decades. Too many dangerous spots around the head/neck region for comfort. It wasn't entertaining at all in that respect. Just shaking my head at a replay showing all of the dangerous spots. It would be like ESPN still glorifying head shots on defenseless NFL receivers because it "gets a reaction." (n/a)

3 -- SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN vs. CRIMSON -- three-way match
 
Joe started the match telling Morgan and Crimson to beat each other up, but they jumped Joe for an early double-team attack. Crimson then accidentally popped Morgan in the mouth, but Morgan kept his cool and the two big men pin-balled Joe across the ring with strikes. Joe came back with a leg sweep targeting Morgan's right knee after dumping Crimson to the floor. The match moved to the floor after Joe splashed Crimson with a suicide dive. The seven-foot Morgan then went up top, balanced himself on the top turnbuckle, and splashed Crimson on the floor. Joe admired his handiwork turning the two men against each other before the match returned to the ring.
 
Morgan and Crimson then started to get heated with each other. Morgan won the crowd and the exchange with a shoulder tackle before Joe yanked Morgan to the outside and ran him into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Joe delivered high-impact offense on Crimson before Morgan became involved again. A final three-man exchange led to Crimson delivering a spear on Joe for the pin and the win. Post-match: Crimson and Morgan stared each other down before Morgan limped off and the vocal males booed Crimson as the winner.
 
WINNER: Crimson at 7:14. Fine execution of the story with Joe trying to pit the faces against each other, then Joe getting his comeuppance by taking the loss. Noteworthy was Joe getting that Austin Aries reaction from the vocal males. (*1/2)

4 -- BULLY RAY vs. MR. ANDERSON -- Philadelphia Street Fight -- Falls Count Anywhere
 
After some basic holds, Anderson went to the floor to retrieve a pro-A-hole sign. Anderson popped it over Ray's head, then revealed it was a loaded sign complete with a street sign. Anderson then popped Ray clean over the head with the street sign. Another fine-worthy offense. The match then moved to the floor, where Anderson threw a beer into Ray's face. On the other side of the ringside section, a woman threw a beer onto Anderson. The action moved to the stage, where Ray mocked Anderson's mic drop gimmick before Anderson popped him in the face with the mic. The match moved backstage, where Ray scored with a piledriver for a nearfall. They returned to the stage area on the floor before spilling over the guardrail toward the ringside area.
 
Back in the ring, Anderson landed a few punches before going to the floor to remove a section of the guardrail. Anderson heaved the rail into the ring, but Ray cut off Anderson with a clothesline. Ray then grabbed a table and set it up in the ring. But, Anderson recovered and back-dropped Ray onto the guardrail, causing it to bend in the middle. Anderson decided a top-rope move was the next court of action, but he missed with a senton splash and crashed into the rail. Ray followed right up with a Full Nelson suplex through the table, but Anderson kicked out of a pin attempt.
 
Anderson, with blood coming from his mouth, came back with a Mic Check into the guardrail, but Ray kicked out. Ray then rolled out of the ring to catch his breath and Anderson followed to the outside, where he retrieved a trashcan. Anderson smashed Ray over the head with the can, which thankfully bent with the blow, and Ray found himself flat on a table. Anderson then went back into the ring for a top-rope move and brushed Ray with a flying senton after over-shooting. The crowd was disappointed, then Anderson and Ray called an audible and Anderson finished off Ray with a Mic Check through the table. Anderson made the cover for the win.
 
WINNER: Anderson at 14:33. The story carried the contest, which still had one too many head/neck blows for comfort, but it delivered on what was advertised. Anderson needed an impressive, decisive win to reverse course on his TNA career, and this accomplished the goal. (**)

5 -- Knockouts champion WINTER (w/Angelina Love) vs. VELVET SKY vs. MADISON RAYNE vs. MICKIE JAMES -- four-way Knockouts Title match -- Karen Jarrett special referee
 
The story early on was Karen officiating in favor of the heels (Rayne and Madison). The heels then became upset with each other, so Karen tried to restore order, while ignoring the babyfaces when they were on the advantage. Karen was eventually bumped, which brought out Traci Brooks to check on Karen. In the confusion, Velvet had a pin on Rayne, Traci tried to decide what to do, and then counted the pin for Velvet. New KO champion. Post-match: Karen was helped away and Velvet celebrated while Winter and Angelina stewed ringside.
 
WINNER: Velvet at 8:31 to capture the KO Title. That was a complete mess with an over-complicated situation. The crowd did respond to the title change, though, after wanting the match to end about 30 seconds in.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 17 2011, 01:12 pm
6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. DANIELS -- I Quit match
 
Daniels tried to get Styles to quit a few seconds into the match, but Styles blew him off, then Styles sustained an attack, but Daniels wouldn't quit either. On the floor, Daniels tried to grab a toolbox from under the ring. He found a wrench and chucked it at Styles, who ducked to avoid the baseball throw. Daniels then tried to jab a screwdriver into Styles's face, but Styles fought him off. Daniels then sustained an attack and congratulated himself on a BME to Styles's lower back. Daniels opted for a single-leg Boston Crab, but Styles refused to quit.
 
Daniels then retrieved a chair and placed it on Styles's throat before sitting on the chair. He said he's been dreaming of watching Styles die in front of him and now he'll get everything Styles has been given in TNA. Daniels said he'll tell his wife that his last words were, "I love you." Daniels then addressed the hard camera and told Wendy to take the kids out of the room so they don't see Styles murdered in cold blood. Too heavy-handed. Styles then made his comeback after Daniels took too long talking and Styles fired up the crowd. Daniels told Styles to die, but Styles hit a Pele kick, then the Styles Clash. Styles picked up a chair to bash Daniels, but grabbed a screwdriver instead. Daniels backed away to the corner and said, "Okay, A.J., I quit. Don't hurt me." The crowd booed the anti-climatic finish, then Daniels ran away from the ring to avoid Styles's wrath.

Post-match: Styles pounded the mat as he left the ring. Styles posed on the stage, then Daniels jumped Styles from behind. Daniels then dropped Styles with Angel's Wings. For some reason, Daniels was rewarded with his music playing. "He never beat me!" Daniels declared, hinting the feud will continue. Daniels then "kicked dirt" onto Styles. On-camera the announcers sold they weren't happy with the non-conclusive finish that didn't resolve anything and said Styles won't be happy with how the match finished.
 
WINNER: Styles at 13:42. This had potential to be a stand-out match, but the mid-match promo took this from a heated, competitive battle to an unrealistic, unentertaining situation vowing to kill someone. (**)

7 -- HULK HOGAN vs. STING -- No DQ match for control of TNA
 
Once the bell sounded, Hogan danced around the ring before doing some shadow boxing. He then pointed to the entrance ramp and Ric Flair's music hit. Flair came out to ringside as Dixie sold disgust ringside. Hogan shook hands with Flair as Flair's music kept playing. Dixie was shown panicked before the music stopped. Loud "whoos" before Hogan and Sting went back to circling around each other. The two men locked up (yes, a lock-up in a "fight") and Sting worked a side headlock for a while. Hogan then delivered a shoulder tackle and started going nuts with his poses and a crotch chop. Sting, shocked, threw away his t-shirt and went after Hogan, but Hogan knocked him down to the mat. They cut to Dixie sitting in her seat with her hands underneath her chin.
 
Hogan knocked Sting to the outside and Sting went looking for Flair before returning to the ring, where Hogan landed more offense. Hogan then dumped Sting to the outside again and Flair choked the life out of Sting before delivering chops right in front of Dixie. Hogan followed up with a low blow to Sting as ref Jackson James watched. Hogan bit into Sting's forehead before Flair handed Hogan a foreign object. Hogan rammed it into Sting's head over and over before rolling Sting back into the ring.
 
In the ring, Sting came up bleeding from the forehead. Hogan then did a combination P.S. Hayes/Ric Flair strut as Sting bled onto the mat. Sting suddenly came back with right hands and Hogan actually took a bump on his back. After chasing Flair on the outside, Sting landed another right and Hogan took another bump on his back. Sting bought Hogan some more time by running to the outside to chase down Flair. Back in the ring, Sting jabbed Hogan with a weapon and Hogan took a flatback bump. Hogan was bleeding from the forehead now. Sting hit a Stinger Splash, then knocked Flair off the apron. Sting followed with a Stinger Splash to Hogan's back before slapping on the Scorpion Deathlock. Hogan tapped out, but ref Jackson James ignored it. Hogan kept tapping, though, so Jackson reluctantly called for the bell.
 
WINNER: Sting at 9:43 to win control of the company.

Post-match: Dixie jumped up and down in celebration before Flair smashed Sting from behind. Immortal, led by Eric Bischoff, then hit the ring and delivered an attack on Sting. Abyss was shown watching in the distance. Bischoff then went for a chair shot, but Jackson stole the chair from Eric. Eric then cracked a chair over his son's back as Hogan was shown getting up in the background. Immortal continued to beat down Sting, who looked up to Hogan and asked Hogan to help him. Sting crawled toward Hogan as the crowd encouraged Hogan to help. Hogan then ripped off his t-shirt, Hulked Up, and went to town on Immortal. Hogan and Sting had Immortal caught in the middle and they cleaned house.
 
The only man left from Immortal was Bischoff, who was cowering in the corner. Hogan and Sting then came together before Hogan pointed down at Bischoff. Hogan and Sting slowly picked up Bischoff before Hogan wound up a big right hand and decked Bischoff. Dixie had stars in her eyes ringside. "I'm back," Hogan said. Hogan then dumped Bischoff out of the ring before standing tall with Sting. Sting said he wants Hulkamania back. Sting did Hogan's poses as Dixie was shown crying ringside. Hogan and Sting then shook hands before Hogan's music played. Dixie was shown hugging husband Serge ringside as the announcers recapped what happened. Sting left the ring first, followed by Hogan, who limped out of the ring and bent over ringside, selling the adrenaline was wearing off.
 
8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. ROBERT ROODE -- TNA World Title match
 
They started with a quick offensive exchange. The crowd was still invested early on, including the vocal males chanting for Roode. Angle then wanted a moonsault, but Roode delivered an overhead toss and Angle landed face-first on the mat. After a pause for everyone to recover, Roode delivered successive offense before snapping off a neckbreaker for a two count. Roode tried a top-rope move, but Angle cut him off with a belly-to-belly suplex for a nearfall. Roode came back with a Crossface, but Angle countered with the anklelock. Roode fought the hold, then countered right back with a Crossface. And, back to the anklelock for Angle. Roode escaped, then delivered a spinebuster. Roode followed with a Fisherman Suplex with a bridge pin, but Angle rolled a shoulder just in time.

At 10:00, the crowd broke out in a "Let's go Angle / Let's go Bobby" chant. Angle went back to the ankelock, but Roode countered. Roode continued to sell the leg work, then Angle used the ref as a shield to distract Roode, who walked into a mule kick from Angle. Angle followed with the Angle Slam, but Roode kicked out in-time, popping the crowd. Angle followed with two German Suplexes and Roode countered #3 with another Crossface. Angle escaped, though, and both men sold the effects of the match thus far. Another dueling chant as they reset. Angle then speared Roode, who kicked out of a pin.
 
Angle tried another top-rope move, but Roode blocked and re-applied a Crossface center ring. Angle fought out, though, and the two men traded finishing moves. Angle then hit the Angle Slam and scored a pin despite Roode's hand being under the bottom rope and Angle using the ropes for leverage. It looked like the ref stopped his count, so the crowd didn't know what to think. The ref called for the bell anyways and the ref did the X signal as Angle took off his boot. Angle was then helped out of the ring as Roode sat in the corner selling disbelief over the outcome. They signed off at 10:52 p.m. EST.
 
WINNER: Angle at 14:15 to retain the TNA World Title. This was certainly Hogan's TNA dream night. TNA dropped the ball only allotting 15 minutes to the match and not going all the way with Roode after the build-up. If they were going to do this finish, the match needed to be about 25 minutes so Roode was legitimized as being able to "hang with Angle." Instead, he looked like another typical TNA babyface unable to win the big one. Even if Roode gets a re-match due to the non-clean finish, they can't get back to the position they were in leading to BFG. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 20 2011, 11:21 am
ROH TV Results: 10-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_54341.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - THE BRISCOES vs. ANX (Kenny King & Rhett Titus) - #1 Contender match for the ROH World Tag Team Titles

No Code of Honor here. Kelly said ANX was here to avenge the chair attack in NYC at “Best in the World.” The Briscoes quickly double teamed King and stomped away at him in the corner during the early stages of the match. They took King out to the floor, but he fired back with a senton off the apron on Jay as Titus ran in and took out Mark. ANX went to work on Mark inside the ring tagging in and out to work him over. Jay caught Rhett with a knee on the apron that gave Mark the upper hand. The Briscoes ended up hitting a leg sweep/running kick on Titus moments later. The Briscoes continued to work over Titus as Jay nailed him with a big chop in the corner. Titus fired back with a slap to the face, but Jay cut him off right away with a knee to the gut.

Kelly read the Tweet of the Week as Mark worked over Titus. Titus caught Mark with a boot out of the corner. Mark fired back and both men went at it on the turnbuckles. Mark went for a hurricanrana, but Rhett dropped him face-first on the top turnbuckle. Both men tagged out and King ran wild on the Briscoes. Kelly compared King to Deion Sanders as he nailed Jay with a leg cradle suplex and the crowd popped. Mark dragged Jay out of the ring, but King backdropped Titus over the top to the outside onto the Briscoes.

ANX went for a double team, but Jay fought out of it. Mark dragged Titus to the outside and slammed him into the guardrail. Mark sent King into a big boot from Jay and then hit a running senton off the apron onto Titus on the outside. Jay hit a frogsplash elbow off the top, but King kicked out. Mark and Titus brawled near the announce table. This made Kelly very upset. Jay got a small package on King for the pin after hitting a low blow on King behind the ref’s back.

The ref asked Jay if he hit King low after the match. The ref told Titus there was nothing he could do about it. Titus attacked the Briscoes, but was quickly outnumbered. Several referees came out and separated the Briscoes from Titus.

Winner: The Briscoes – The way these two teams wrestled once again didn’t match the tone of the video packages. The heel/face dynamic simply wasn’t defined here as it was in the video packages. Management needs to figure out a way to get the Briscoes to come across like heels. Another thing that was missing was the intensity from ANX right from the start. They should have come out aggressive against the Briscoes given what was shown on television, but the match was wrestled like it was just another meeting between the two teams. The match itself was good, but as was the case with Strong-Richards, the action in the ring didn’t match the story being told. Some fans stood and cheered the low blow pin from the Briscoes. There certainly weren’t boos of outrage given the Briscoes actions. There wasn’t even much of a reaction to the post-match activity.

2 - - MICHAEL ELGIN (w/Truth Martini) vs. EDDIE EDWARDS

Elgin didn’t follow the Code of Honor. Kelly then ran down the “Tale of the Tape” noting that Elgin was slightly younger than Edwards. Both men exchanged forearms in the middle of the ring during the early stages of the match. They switched to slaps to the face. Elgin finally took down Edwards with a shoulder tackle. Elgin went to work on Edwards and hit a delayed vertical suplex, but only got a one count. Both men exchanged big chops. Elgin hit a big chop that sent Edwards into the corner. Elgin followed up with a series of kicks in the corner. Edwards went for an arm drag, but Elgin caught him. Edwards eventually caught Elgin with a hurricanrana and locked in the Achilles lock, but Elgin shoved him off. Edwards hit a big kick and a springboard moonsault for a 2 count.

The crowd chanted for Edwards after the nearfall. Edwards hit a back drop out of the corner. Elgin blocked the double knees off the second rope from Edwards and drove Edwards into the turnbuckles before tossing Edwards over his back. They went to commercial.

Back from commercial, Edwards tried to fire back, but Elgin nailed him with a series of backbreakers followed by a side-slam for a 2 count. They went to footage from the commercial break that showed Elgin elevating Edwards before dropping him down with a Samoan drop. Elgin blocked a backdrop driver, but Edwards hit a superkick moments later and followed up with a falcon arrow. Both men were down on the mat as the crowd popped. Edwards hit a running boot, but Elgin caught him with an elbow. Edwards caught Elgin with an enzuguri from the apron and followed up with a missile dropkick for a 2 count. Edwards sent Elgin to the outside and nailed him with a dive through the ropes as the fans at ringside slapped the barricade.

The ref counted as both men struggled to get to their feet on the outside. Kelly put over Edwards’s “Die Hard” personality while mentioning him battling through injury to win “Survival of the Fittest” last year. Edwards hit a running kick to Elgin’s chest for a two count. The fans chanted for Edwards as he lifted Elgin to his feet. They actually went away from the match to show a ROHWrestling.com ad. Elgin caught Edwards coming off the ropes when they came back to live action. Both men ended up on the apron. Both men battled for position. Edwards caught Elgin with a superkick. He then went up top and nailed Elgin with a doublestomp on the apron and the crowd applauded. Edwards hit another stomp across Elgin’s back inside the ring. Elgin countered Edwards and nailed him with a buckle bomb. Edwards countered a powerbomb attempt into a rollup. Elgin kicked out, but Edwards hit him with the die hard (2k1 bomb) for the pin.

Winner: Eddie Edwards – This was a good match. I liked how they set a purpose for both men within the context of the match. Edwards has to win to avoid falling off his path towards an eventual match with ROH World Champion Davey Richards. Elgin was there to block his path, as he serves as the enforcer for the House of Truth, which also features Roderick Strong. This was solid television all-around.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 20 2011, 11:24 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_54349.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS & JOHN MORRISON vs. World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY & IC champion CODY RHODES & CHRISTIAN -- six-man tag match

Orton and Christian resumed their rivalry to begin the match. Orton scored with early offense, which the crowd was hot for. Sheamus and Rhodes then tagged in and Sheamus destroyed him with boots to the mid-section. Rhodes had enough and tagged in Henry, who slowly entered the ring to confront Sheamus. Meanwhile, Orton took advantage of Rhodes's weakened state by running to the other side of the ring to land blows and strikes. Orton blasted Rhodes up the rampway, then Rhodes tried to run to the backstage area as they cut to break.

Back live, Morrison scored a bit of offense before Mark Henry blasted him with a right hand. Cole noted Orton and Rhodes fought out of the arena prior to the break. Lawler said it was more like Rhodes running out of the arena to avoid Orton after Rhodes bagged him on Raw last week. In the ring, Morrison began taking a pounding when the heels used a two-on-one advantage to take control. Henry then applied a bear hug that Lawler said should be called a Henry Hug. We'll see if that catches on.

Morrison finally had a chance to tag in Sheamus, but Christian ran to the other side and yanked Sheamus off the ring apron. Sheamus and Christian then brawled over the guardrail to the arena area. So, it was Henry vs. Morrison. Morrison tried offense, but Henry threw Morrison into the air for a mid-air World's Strongest Slam. Henry made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Team Henry at 11:20. Although more attention was spent on outside-the-ring happenings, a good six-man tag match to promote a handful of items for the PPV. It was nice to see a hot crowd invested in the action, as well.

2 -- EVE (w/Kelly Kelly) vs. NATALYA (w/Divas champion BETH PHOENIX)

Natalya completely dominated early on and taunted Eve on behalf of Phoenix before the PPV. Eve shook off the taunts and landed a moonsault for the win. Afterward, Beth tried to attack Eve, but Eve bailed from the ring.

WINNER: Eve at 2:10. Short match, basic story setting up the PPV.

3 -- C.M. PUNK (w/Triple H) vs. THE MIZ (w/R-Truth)

Cole tried to explain that Hunter was even more upset last week on Raw when Laurinaitis re-instated Miz and Truth. So, the Raw GM is more powerful than the COO? Lawler noted the people he's talked to are excited about Hunter getting back in the ring again. But, if Hunter's still COO, wouldn't he have to run that by the Board of Directors like he did for Night of Champions? WWE has apparently given up on this making any sense. As for the match, Punk and Miz found themselves on the outside, which drew Hunter around ringside to the heel corner when Truth became involved. Back in the ring, Miz and Punk traded control leading to the top of the hour as Lawler talked about Hunter getting back into wrestling mode on Sunday, which seemed to be the entire point of "firing" Hunter last week.

Hunter tried to get involved in the match when the heels cheated to take advantage, but referee Scott Armstrong reprimanded Hunter. Regarding Miz acting mean, Lawler referenced Taylor Swift's "Mean" song, which prompted a quip from Cole that T-Swift's in Lawler's age bracket. Loud "C-M-Punk" chant as the crowd tried to rally behind Punk. Miz then tried a top-rope move, but Punk intercepted with a roundhouse kick. Hunter had enough of R-Truth trying to interfere, so he chased him up the ramp.

Suddenly, John Laurinaitis emerged on-stage and asked for the match to be stopped. He also had a piece of paper in-hand and told Hunter they have an immigration problem. Several men stood next to Laurinaitis as he told Hunter they have to deal with this right now. Hunter reluctantly walked up the ramp, but not before punching R-Truth, who was comically trying to wave Hunter good-bye. Hunter walked off to the back and they cut to break.

WINNER: No Contest at 8:46. This show was going just fine until they re-visited and replayed everything that went wrong on last week's show in this segment. Is this whole conspiracy angle still in-play with someone still trying to sabotage Hunter, this week via immigration issues?

3b -- C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ (w/R-Truth)

After some back-and-forth action, Punk hit a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop before calling for the end. Punk knocked Truth off the apron first, then went for the Go 2 Sleep, but Miz slipped out. Punk scored a roll-up pin moments later to secure another one-on-two-style win. Post-match: Miz and Truth attacked Punk and inflicted a beating since Hunter wasn't there to make the save. Referees then stormed the ring to get Miz and Truth away from Punk. Miz and Truth acted like they were willing to co-operate by raising their arms and quietly leaving the ring. Suddenly, Truth ran back into the ring and gave Punk his finisher. Miz then tried to act like a peacemaker, which the refs bought. Miz then hit the Skullcrushing Finale on Punk.

WINNER: Punk at 1:55.

4 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER

Swagger landed an emphatic bodyslam to begin the match. Ryder came back with high knees out of the corner, then Ryder suddenly made a cover for a very quick three count. Post-match: Ziggler and Swagger tried to corner Ryder, but Mason Ryan's music hit. He even looks goofy walking to the ring. Ryan scared away the heel trio as Cole noted Ziggler is supposed to be in action against Ryan next. Ryan then grabbed a mic and told Ziggler to get back in the ring since they have a match next.

WINNER: Ryder at 0:32.

5 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Jack Swagger and Vickie Guerrero) vs. MASON RYAN (w/Zack Ryder) -- non-title match

Back on Raw, the match was already in progress with Ziggler trying to avoid Ryan. Ziggler scored brief offense, but Ryan landed a big shoulder block that sent Ziggler rolling to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Ryan tossed Ziggler into the turnbuckles, then knocked him to the floor. Ziggler reluctantly returned to the ring, where he landed a desperation dropkick, but Ryan absorbed and landed a bodyslam. Ziggler went back to the outside and Ryan gave chase. Vickie got in the middle and slapped Ryan, who then turned his anger toward Ziggler back in the ring. Ryan destroyed Ziggler and was DQ'ed for not breaking a corner attack.

WINNER: Ziggler via DQ at 2:36.

6 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO & MICHAEL COLE vs. JOHN CENA & JIM ROSS -- Winner chooses stipulation at Vengeance

Before the bell sounded, Cole said he wanted a piece of Ross. Cena checked with Cole if he really wanted that and tagged in Ross. The two announcers squared off, Cole taunted Ross, and Ross popped him in the mouth to cheers. Cole then scampered over to Del Rio, who tagged in, as did Cena for Ross. Loud dueling chants as Cena and Del Rio exchanged holds and offense. Lawler noted at New York Comic-Con over the weekend, everyone came up to him and said they want someone to shut up Cole. Meanwhile, Del Rio began an offensive attack. The crowd was red-hot chanting for Del Rio before Cena teased a comeback, but Del Rio cut him off leading to the top of the hour.

Cena teased the STF to boos, but Del Rio flung him away. Del Rio then landed a spinning backbreaker for a two count. Mathews noted this has essentially become a one-on-one match with Cena and Del Rio doing most of the battle in the ring. Del Rio then went up top, but missed with a flying butt splash. The males booed as Cena began his full comeback. Cena set up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, which drew a big mixed response. Del Rio then bailed to the corner and tagged in Cole, who stood stunned on the apron. Cena suplexed Cole into the ring and Cole begged off as he inched closer to Ross. Cole pleaded with Cena, who looked around the arena before shaking hands and dropping him with the Attitude Adjustment. Cena set up for the STF on Cole, but paused and pointed toward Ross. Cena fired up the crowd, then tagged in Ross, who positioned Cole for the anklelock. Cole tapped out furiously before clutching his ankle.

WINNERS: Cena & Ross at 11:37. The hot crowd made this an acceptable main event, even though WWE gave away too much Cena-Del Rio before the PPV, and Ross and Cole played their roles well. As for the purpose of the match, it came across like a last-ditch effort to get some PPV buys to avoid a disastrous domestic buy total. It seems like Cena won't be winning the title after getting a "visual victory" with Del Rio counted down for a ten count and no verbal proclamation to re-take the title. Then again, McMahon could change his mind on Sunday.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 22 2011, 09:13 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 10-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54406.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - YOSHI TATSU vs. TYLER REKS (w/Curt Hawkins)

Reks's power quickly lets him get control. Some back and forth between Tatsu's speed and Reks's power makes for a nice contrast. Suplex by Reks gets him two, and he moves to a chinlock. Korpela tries to make up some backstory for Reks. Reks with a gutwrench gutbuster, which really shows off his strength well. Yoshi gets in some offense, then reverse a suplex into a lateral press for two. Reks comes right back with a big boot for two. Reks back to a side headlock. Tatsu with a kick to the head which backs Reks to the corner, but Reks catches him with a boot when he charges. Reks beats on Tatsu in the corner, charges and eats ringpost. Reks is stunned and Tatsu goes to the top and connects with a spinning heel kick for the win.

WINNER: Yoshi Tatsu in about 6:00.

Post-match, Hawkins and Reks beat Tatsu down to get their heat back, but the Usos make the save.

2 - KAITLYN (w/A.J.) vs. MAXINE

Kaitlyn wins an early lock-up, then powers out of Maxine's hold. Maxine with a cravat, Kaitlyn impressively powers her up into the air, holds her horizontal at shoulder height (like a front suplex held at the top), walks over to the rope and drops her over. When Kaitlyn is hitting on all cylinders, I think she could be the next Beth Phoenix. Maxine drags Kaitlyn to the apron, gets out, and starts chopping her chest quite loudly, drawing some reaction form the crowd. The cover gets Maxine one-and-a-half. Kaitlyn fights out of the corner, but Maxine reverses a suplex or throw into a Dragon sleeper hold. That was a sweet reversal. Kaitlyn is able to walk to the ropes to get a break.

There's a little bit of a clumsy exchange and Maxine ends up moving into a side chinlock, her specialty. The crowd rallies behind Kaitlyn, who tries to power out by Maxine takes her down again. Maxine ends up on Kaitlyn's back, but Kaitlyn backs into the corner then throws her off, and comes back with a leaping spinning elbow. She jumps on Maxine in the corner then does a quick toss across the ring and covers for two. Maxine with chops, but Kaitlyn puts her in a full nelson and does a sort of sit out slam while holding the full nelson. When Maxine is on the ground, Kaitlyn transitions into a full nelson using her legs (haven't seen that in a while!) causing Maxine to tap with her leg.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 8:00. I absolutely loved this match. The speed was a bit slow, they needed to pick up the pace a bit, and there were a few occasional clumsy spots. But, they had a good back-and-forth brawl, with both Divas showing off a different style, and Kaitlyn using her strength to do some thing you don't expect from the Divas. And, good gracious, how often do you see a women's match end by submission? If these two can pick the pace up a bit, this match would be something I'd like to see on a main show if given the chance.

3 - PERCY WATSON & TITUS O'NEIL vs. JTG & DERRICK BATEMAN - Tag Team Match

Bateman and Watson start off and they stall a bit, lock up, and stall some more. Watson with some very crisp moves. Regal commends Bateman for doing a headlock properly. Watson with his big dropkick, and Titus tags in, sending Bateman to the corner to bring JTG in. JTG and Titus go back and forth. Percy and Titus do rapid tags. Bateman tries to interfere and gets a double clothesline for his efforts, then they clear JTG from the ring.

Back from break, Bateman is controlling Watson, but Watson gets out. Watson ends up on the apron, and gets distracted by JTG, letting Bateman ambush him. Bateman with a missile dropkick from the apron to Watson on the floor which looked sweet, and some fiercely intense facial expressions. They return to the ring and Bateman stays in control. Heel tag teaming in the corner. The ref is arguing with Titus and misses a cover by JTG.

JTG tags in Bateman, hits the Mugshot, and Bateman makes the cover for two. Percy does jackknife for two, but Bateman drags him back to the middle of the ring and hits a jumping elbow drop. Regal asks where Todd Grisham is, and says Grisham was better at feeding him lines for jokes. Bateman with a headlock, but Watson stands up and drops on his back to escape.

Percy tags out, so does Bateman, and WWE shows Titus's hot tag act to the very move. Bateman breaks up the cover and dumps Watson out when he comes in, then goes back tot he corner. JTG takes in Bateman, who tries a big axe handle from the top rope, but misses. As he gets up, Titus gets the sit out slam and makes the cover for three.

WINNERS: Titus O'Neil and Percy Watson in 13:00. Good match; could definitely have been a main show match. Derrick Bateman and Percy Watson really stand out. Titus does a great hot tag, but it's become routine and he needs to change it up; he's no John Cena or Randy Orton.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 22 2011, 09:14 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 10-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_54431.shtml") If this was condensed to in-ring results only, it'll be one of the shortest reports I've copied and pasted so I added my own stuff to it in italics :P

The following is how the first 45 minutes went down in my words (Arcademan):

- Sting opened the show
- Hulk Hogan came out and said he was back in the red and yellow
- Dixie Carter came out, made Sting her right hand man
- Kurt Angle came out, made fun of them since they were expecting Roode to be the champion
- Roode came out, said he was screwed, wants rematch. Sting says yes but wait! Contract clause from PPV says nope
-Enters James Storm to back up his partner. Wait! How about Angle-Storm for the championship? "Sorry about your damn luck"


1 -- Knockouts tag champions TARA & MISS TESSMACHER vs. ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER -- KO Tag Title match

The heels tried a sneak-attack to score a quick pin to secure the titles, but to no avail. After the heels isolated Tara for a while, Tessmacher tagged in and the action broke down. After Angelina was cleared from the scene, Tessmacher scored the pin on Winter for the win.

WINNERS: Tess & Tara at 3:28 to retain the Tag Titles.

Jeff Jarrett calls out Jeff Hardy. Jarrett wants Hardy gone. Hardy says fans want him. Both exchange blows. Security and officials step in. 'Balzac!" to Hardy. Let's get back to wrestling.

70 minutes into the show...

2 -- GUNNER vs. ABYSS

Abyss took Gunner apart early on, so Gunner bailed to the outside, but Abyss threw him into the ring steps. Abyss spit on himself and threw Gunner back into the ring, but Gunner ran through the crowd and to the backstage area, selling fear. Gunner was counted out, giving Abyss the win. Taz said Abyss is in the zone and more whacked out and crazier than ever.

WINNER: Abyss via count-out at 2:01.

Velvet Sky comes up new Knockouts champion. Karen Jarrett bitches and screams (believe it when I say she's even more annoying voice-wise than Vickie). Gail Kim returns to TNA, beats down Velvet Sky. Yep, one of these nights but wait, there's more...

Hogan and Bischoff meet in the ring...yadda, yadda. Eric punches Hulk who no-sold it. Immortal tries to back Eric up but Sting come in and stand with Hogan. Bischoff retreats but his son the referee meets him on the stage. Words exchange, punch thrown, Eric down, Hulk and Sting gives the thumbs up.


3 -- TNA World Hvt. champion KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM -- TNA World Title match

After the bell sounded, the two men stood their ground before teasing a lock-up, but Angle kicked Roode in the gut to take early control. Angle continued a basic corner attack since he was physically limited, then he argued with the ref. Angle took his time returning to the corner and walked right into a Last Call Superkick. Storm made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Storm at 1:19 to capture the TNA World Title.

Post-match: Storm and Angle remained motionless on the canvas before Robert Roode stormed the ring to celebrate with Storm, who shed tears. Storm then ran into the crowd to celebrate. Fortune members came out to toss Storm beers as Storm continued to celebrate in the crowd as Taz put over the superkick catching Angle right on the button to get the win that quickly. Styles, Kaz, and Roode gave Storm a beer bath as Beer Money's music continued to play.

Storm the mic and slowly walked around the ring surveying the scene. Storm soaked in the moment before noting he's been with TNA since Day One and watched people come and go. But, one thing's for sure is the Cowboy is here to stay. Roode smiled before Storm noted the victory was bittersweet. He said Roode is his best friend and they are the best tag team in the world, and this belongs to him. Roode accepted the title belt, then took the mic and said this looks real nice, but he agrees with the people that Storm deserves it. Roode then put the title belt around Storm's waist as Storm looked up toward the ceiling. Fortune then raised Storm's arms in victory as the trademarks were displayed. They signed off without commentary two minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 22 2011, 09:21 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-20-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_54436.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results per usual however no extra commentary from me this time  :)

1 - TED DIBIASE vs. JINDER MAHAL

DiBiase came out to a bit of a pop, which I don't get. What's he done to get one? Early chain wrestling with a variety of counters, but DiBiase gets the overall advantage. The pacing feels like a long match. DiBiase hits a dropkick for two. Mahal ducks out the the ring, and when Ted chases him in, Mahal catches him with a knee lift to the face. Mahal drags Ted so his head is off the apron, goes outside and hits Ted a few times, then wraps the ring skirt around his head and knee lifts the head again. Jinder brings him back into the ring with the cover for two. Mahal holding Ted's head in a lock and hitting a trio of knee lifts. Jinder with a headlock and cuts off Ted's comeback.

Suplex for two and then Mahal chokes Ted in the ropes and then the corner, drawing the ref's ire. Ted tries to fight out of the corner, but Mahal locks his head in a lock against the ropes. Jinder brings him in mid-ring for a side headlock, and Mahal cuts off the comeback again with a knee lift. Ted surprises Jinder with an inside cradle for two, and when they reset, Mahal connects with a big boot for two. Another side headlock from Mahal, this time DiBiase sustains a bit of offense coming out, but Mahal back body drops him outside the ring, and they cut to commercial.

Ted's fighting out of a submission hold out of the break, then catapults Jinder into the turnbuckle, and lands an atomic drop. Ted with the surprise clothesline and fires up. He charges Jinder who gets knees up. Ted comes right back with a spinebuster for two. Ted gets frustrated and calls for Dream Street, but Jinder tosses out and hits a high knee, throws Ted into the ropes and another high knee. DiBiase with a backbreaker/dropkick combo, and goes to the top turnbuckle. Mahal crotches him and DiBiase rolls into the middle of the ring. Mahal with the full nelson suplex for the win.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 10:00. Ted did an okay job bouncing around for Mahal. Jinder, though, showed some really unique stuff here. With his emphasis on knee strikes, it really felt like watching a martial artist. This is a really odd comparison, but I almost feel like Jinder Mahal is basing his fighting style on Sagat from Street Fighter; they have a similar build (tall, lanky, muscular) and now the fighting style is similar too.

2 - SANTINO MARELLA vs. HEATH SLATER

I thought Heath was suspended? Heath no-sells Santino's martial arts attempts, but runs from an early Cobra threat. Some chain wrestling. Santino spins on his belly on top of Slater's back, then a hip toss, armbar, and wristlock. Slater gets control, and does some basic heel stomps and kicks to the prone Santino. Apparently, Slater considers himself the "Axl Rose" of WWE, according to Josh Matthews. That might explain the Wellness Policy violation.

Slater with some basic offense. Neckbreaker from Slater gets two. Slater misses with double knees fromt he top, and Santino does punches, the split, hip toss, and sailor salute headbutt. Santino prepares for the Cobra and Slater eats it mid-ring, Santino makes the cover for the win.

WINNER: Santino Marella in 8:00. Slater got an awful lot of offense for a guy going out on a Wellness Policy violation. Santino was fun, as always, and Slater was bland, as always. Slater's role really should be limited to being a heel jobber. He sells well, but his offense is so insanely boring.

3 - WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & DREW MCINTYRE -- non-title match

[Q3] I see McIntyre and McGillicutty as a demotion for Drew. He's earned better as far as I'm concerned. Bourne and McIntyre start off. Drew quickly puts Evan in the corner. They lock up against and Drew pushes him in the corner. Evan sits on the turnbuckle as Drew mocks him. Evan bounces back with an armdrag from the turnbuckle then a wheelbarrow transitioned into an armdrag.

Kofi tags in, Evan holds Drew in the ropes, and Kofi drops on him from the turnbuckle. Drew powers up and goes back on offense. Drew has Kofi in the electric chair position, but Kofi transitions into an armdrag. Mac tags in Mike, who eats a Japanese arm drag. Evan tags in, Kofi gives Mike a gutbuster, holds him on the knee, and Bourne does a standing moonsault onto Mike's back for two. Clever.

McGillicutty is able to get control for a moment, but a huracanrana gets Evan back on top. Evan tags in Kofi, who comes in with a kick to Mike's chest, getting two. Evan tags back in and hits a basement dropkick to Mike in the corner. Who's the heel here? Mike on the ground, tries to get out, but Evan applies a leglock of sorts, then hits a blockbuster to the leg and tags Kofi in. They do a Hardy Boys-like team move, clear Drew from the apron, then do a double suicide dive to the heels on the floor.

McGillicutty has control of Kingston back from break. So he uses his advantage to apply a side headlock. Kofi tags out, and Evan hits is a huracanrana. Bourne shows off some neat moves and heads to the turnbuckle. Drew comes in, the ref argues and Kofi comes in. The ref turns to Kofi and Drew crotches Bourne. Drew tags in, and Drew abuses Borne in the corner. Some offense from Mac and McGillicutty tags back in. Backbreaker from McGillicutty for two, then a rear chinlock. Stanford ensures that Mathews knows who James Taylor is.

McIntyre tags in, but gets rolled up for two. McIntyre tags Bourne outside for more punishment, and throws him back in. McGillicutty tags in, and tries a suplex but Evan knees out at the top, and hits a suplex of his own. Double tag and Kofi with a huge springboard Superman punch, a pair of clotheslines, and clears Mike off the apron. Drew shoves off an SOS attempt, but Kofi hits the ropes and lands another Superman punch.

Kofi calls for the Boom Drop, hits it, then signals Trouble in Paradise. Drew sees it coming and heads for the corner, dodges Kofi's charge, but Kofi does his double-bounce crossbody out of the corner. McGillicutty breaks up the pin then dumps Borne. Kingston ducks Drew's big boot which hits McGillicutty instead, lands Trouble in Paradise and tags in Bourne. Air Bourne shooting star press for the win.

WINNERS: Air Boom in 14:00. Mike McGillicutty really stood out like a sore thumb here in terms of being boring. Sad to see Drew take the pin, not him. Good match to showcase Air Boom's moves, although some of the tag team moves felt a bit too choreographed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 22 2011, 01:07 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_54463.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – MARK HENRY vs. JOHN MORRISON

As if I need any more of a reason to dislike Booker T, color commentator: He’s a Tim Tebow fan. I’m sure I’ll get letters for that one. Morrison started with punches, but Henry just shoved him so hard that Morrison bumped over the top rope. Henry pushed Morrison’s head into the ring post and held it there. He brought Morrison throat first over the side of the apron. Back in the ring, Henry landed a headbutt, then applied a neck vice. Morrison went to the top and landed a glancing blow to Henry’s back. Flying Chuck kick connected, as did a knee to the head. He set up for Starship Pain and hit the move. Henry kicked out, almost before two. Morrison tried to sneak underneath Henry and was unsuccessful. Henry again tossed Morrison up, caught him, and slammed him for the win.

WINNER: Henry, at 3:19. This was a combination of the same stuff we saw earlier in the month when Henry squashed Morrison on Raw, and from last week’s six-man tag match.

2 – WADE BARRETT vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Mathews said Bryan told him earlier in the day that Bryan isn’t going to shave his beard until Wrestlemania. The Bryan Wrestlemania Beard Watch is underway. Bryan with a backslide for two, then he tried to grab the arm for the LeBell Lock. Big Boss Man slam by Barrett for two at :54. Barrett tangled Bryan in the ropes, then gave him a running boot to the face, sending Bryan to ringside. The announcers kept discussing how Bryan has been on a losing streak lately. Bryan got his boot up on a corner charge at about 2:30, then hit a second-rope dropkick for two. Barrett with another kicked for a near-fall. Bryan moonsaulted over Barrett and hit a running elbow. Running dropkick in the corner for two at 4:02. Pumphandle slam for a near-fall by Barrett. Barrett got Bryan up for Wasteland and connected. That was enough to finish Bryan.

WINNER: Barrett, at 5:13. I’m assuming this “losing streak” is leading to something bigger, as the announcers kept alluding to it, but in this day and age, that might not mean as much as it used to. Hopefully WWE this signals the start of the re-building of Barrett at least.

3 – SHEAMUS & ZACK RYDER vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & CHRISTIAN

As Sheamus came to the ring, they showed clips of his match against Alberto Del Rio last week. During Christian’s entrance, they showed Carlos Cabrera and Marcelo Rodriguez, the Spanish announcers, at ringside. No Hugo Savinovich, whose contract was not renewed by WWE. As Booker defended Long’s decision to put Ziggler in two matches at Vengeance, Cole for some reason mentioned Booker’s previous identity as GI Bro. Ryder was taken to ringside early on by Christian. Neck-breaker by Ziggler for two. Ryder with a roll-up for two at 2:16. Ziggler kept Ryder in the heel corner and tagged Christian. Sheamus made the hot tag at 3:04 as Booker tried to rant through the entire sequence. Mathews thankfully re-directed the conversation. Ziggler was set up for the finish, but Christian provided a distraction and headed up the ramp. Sheamus shrugged off a sleeper attempt, then Sheamus Brogue Kicked Ziggler out of his boots. Pinfall followed.

WINNERS: Sheamus and Ryder, at 3:58. Thought they’d give this a little more time. They were wise to spend an additional segment hyping both matches that were announced earlier in the show.

4 – SIN CARA vs. SIN CARA

Mathews said this is the first mask vs. mask match in Smackdown history. Great pop for Sin Cara Azul. Interestingly, John Cone was the referee here; because of his ability to speak Spanish (and Cara Azul’s lack of English skills), Rod Zapata had been doing Cara Azul’s matches. Cara Negro was on offense to start as Cole covered the history between these two. Springboard hurricanrana by Azul. He jumped off the top and onto Cara Negro outside the ring. Springboard cross-body by Cara Azul. Booker brought up Mil Mascaras and Cole talked about him at length. Headscissors take-down by Cara Azul. Another springboard attempt, but Cara Negro dropkicked him. Cara Negro tried to tear the mask of his opposition off, to no avail. Back body-drop by Cara Azul. Cara Negro tried to recover at ringside as they went to break at 3:15.

Back at 6:15 with a back-breaker by Cara Negro. I think they needed to do a better job setting up what losing a mask means for a Mexican wrestler, especially with the match taking place in Mexico. Cara Negro hooked in a potential submission move, then locked in a Camel Clutch. Another tilt-a-whirl back-breaker by Cara Negro for two. Cara Azul attempted to come back, but Cara Negro shooed him away on a dropkick attempt. Cara Negro tried for the mask again and got it past the chin of Cara Azul. Sounds like the fans may have been chanting “Mistico,” but either way, it was a chant they broke out in several times during the match. Cara Negro missed a dive in the corner and Cara Azul came back with kicks. Wrist-lock take-down, followed by an arm-drag. Hurricanrana into a pinning combination for two. Roll-up out of a wheelbarrow for two. Suplex by Cara Negro for a near-fall. Cara Negro tried to go to the top, but Cara Azul stopped him with a kick. Hurricanrana off the ropes by Cara Azul. He then went to the top…but decided Cara Negro was too far away, so came down, kicked him, and set up on the opposite buckle. Swanton for a two-count at 12:55. Cara Negro fought back, but Cara Azul spun him around in a headscissors, landing in a set-up for an arm-bar. He locked it in and Cara Negro tapped.

WINNER: Cara Azul, at 13:23. Surprised they gave these two so much time after their stinker at Hell in a Cell. Still, a hotter crowd did wonders for the match.

Cara Negro was ready to walk off without unmasking. Cara Azul stopped him and they continued fighting. Cara Azul finally unmasked Cara Negro. He tried to hide his face, but we got a clear view of it for a couple seconds. Booker made fun of him for being ugly. I thought they might try something cute, like having the loser wear another mask underneath or paying it off with another angle rather than an unmasking, but they actually went through with it here.

5 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. THE BIG SHOW

Slap to the chest, then a slam by Big Show. Hip-lock take-over by Show, making his in-ring return here tonight. Also the return of Cole’s ridiculous similes and metaphors for Show’s body parts. Del Rio retreated to ringside, but Show pulled him up on the apron by his head. Del Rio choked Show over the top rope and tried to launch himself off the top, but Show slapped him in the chest. Back to the outside went Del Rio as they went to break at 2:16 of the match.

Back at 6:27 with Del Rio aiming for Show’s legs. Show caught a kick and pushed Del Rio to the mat. Del Rio was clotheslined over the top as Ricardo tried to provide aid to Del Rio. ADR dropkicked the steps into Show’s legs, but Show chopped Del Rio to keep him at bay. Show put on the brakes after Del Rio snuck out of the corner, but the WWE Champion could not capitalize. Del Rio slid out of a pin at 8:55. Show choked Del Rio in the ropes, but Del Rio dropkicked Show’s leg and got him down to a knee, then fully down on the mat. Work on the arm by Del Rio, but Show swatted Del Rio away and the big man got back to his feet. Show splashed Del Rio in the corner, then gave him a running shoulder tackle. He set up for the chokeslam, but Del Rio escaped and chop blocked Show. Cross arm-breaker locked in, but Show was face-down on the mat rather than on his back. Show refused to tap and worked to get to his hands and knees. He then got to his feet, picking Del Rio up in the process, and slammed him down. Show tried another chokeslam, but Ricardo Rodriguez ran in and jumped on Show’s back for the disqualification.

WINNER: Show, via DQ, at 12:49.

After the match, Show hit his knockout punch on Rodriguez, then on Del Rio. As Show recovered, Mark Henry ran out and ran right into a knockout blow from Show. They replayed all there KO’s. Show looked on from the stage as they faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2011, 01:18 pm
WWE Vengeance PPV Results: 10-23-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_54494.shtml)

1 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) vs. U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & JACK SWAGGER -- WWE Tag Title match

Ziggler did most of the work early on as the announcers bickered. Bourne wanted Air Bourne five minutes in, but Swagger got his knees up to block, which took the air out of the arena. Ziggler and Bourne then traded pin attempts before the heels isolated Bourne. Swagger tried a running Vader Bomb, but Bourne got his knees up to block a la Swagger blocking Air Bourne earlier. Kingston then tagged into the match, as did Ziggler. Kingston delivered a flying cross-body splash, but Ziggler kicked out just before three. The action broke down moments later and Bourne and Swagger found themselves on the outside. In the ring, Ziggler tried to hook the tights on Kingston, but Kingston kicked out and hit Trouble in Paradise. Kingston followed with a tag to Bourne, who hit Air Bourne on Ziggler for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Air Boom at 13:23 to retain the Tag Titles. Slow start and a strong finish to get the crowd involved. Looking at the challengers, Ziggler continues to out-shine his tag partner in terms of ring work and Swagger needs something else to sink his teeth into. (**)

2 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jack Swagger) vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Air Boom) -- U.S. Title match
 
After the bell sounded, Ziggler slowly walked around the ring to sell the effects of the tag title finish. Ryder tried some quick pins, but Ziggler kicked out in time. "Let's go Ryder" chant from the crowd. After Ziggler tried to bail and Air Boom rolled him back into the ring, the referee gave Air Boom the boot from ringside. Ziggler's associates remained ringside as Ziggler finally scored some offense to grab control of the match. Ziggler missed with a corner attack and Ryder tried to follow with the Broski Boot, but Ziggler ducked. Ziggler then scored a close nearfall as the face announcers stressed Ryder's resiliency. Ryder came back with a Broski Boot on his second attempt, then the heels ran interference ringside. Ryder avoided the Zig-Zag, though, but walked into a James Storm-style flash superkick. Ziggler made the cover for the win.
 
WINNER: Ziggler at 6:02 to retain the U.S. Title. Odd that neither title match resulted in a title change and everything stays the same. Not that WWE is necessarily in the business of protecting Ryder, but WWE needed the outside distraction from Vickie & Swagger to give Ryder an "out" for losing against a softened-up Ziggler. (*1/4)

3 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. EVE -- Divas Title match
 
Eve was the aggressor early on, indicating this match would be given a good amount of time. Beth then cut her off on the outside and went to work on Eve back in the ring. Eve made a comeback at 5:00 to even the match out after a strong start. Beth came back with a Glam Slam attempt, but Eve escaped. Eve then appeared to have a shot at winning via top-rope moonsault, but Beth avoided and followed up with the Glam Slam for the win.
 
WINNER: Phoenix at 7:18 to retain the Divas Title. Solid effort given a singular spotlight without outside distractions. It's rare for WWE to book long title reigns, but they could have something special on their hands if WWE keeps the title on Beth until Awesome Kong returns in 2012.

4 -- CHRISTIAN vs. SHEAMUS
 
Before the bell sounded, Christian paced around the outside, demanding Sheamus back up. After trying some stall tactics, Christian slapped Sheamus across the face once the bell sounded. Sheamus responded with an aggressive attack. "He's leaning on that boy!" Booker shouted twice. Christian absorbed Sheamus's early attack and landed some offense, but missed with a top-rope dive. Sheamus went back on the offensive as the announcers tossed around some baseball analogies with the World Series going on in Texas.
 
Sheamus started to show some concern after not being able to finish off Christian, then walked into a pendulum kick out of the corner. Christian tried to follow with a turnaround splash, but Sheamus countered with the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count. Sheamus tried to follow with the Brogue Kick, but Christian countered with a spear for a two count. The action moved to the top turnbuckle, where Christian snapped off a huracanrana. "You gotta be kidding me" #195 from Booker. Christian then tried to finish off Sheamus with another spear, but Sheamus dropped him with a Brogue Kick for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Sheamus at 10:38. Basic, placeholder match to get Sheamus and Christian on PPV. The result was another good win for Sheamus as WWE waits for the right time to insert Sheamus into the title picture. WWE gave Christian enough offense to retain some measure of credibility losing yet again and he can restore his position on the mic, which seems to be Christian's main objective on TV these days.

5 -- TRIPLE H & C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH
 
Punk and Miz started things off as Hunter looked the part of a part-timer standing on the ring apron. After a brief exchange, Hunter slap-tagged himself into the match and Miz went flying to his corner to tag in Truth. Truth took a right hand to the jaw and tagged in Miz, who Hunter and Punk toyed with. Included was Hunter applying the figure-four leglock as the crowd whoo'ed. The heels then took control of the match against Punk before the action broke down ringside. Hunter took the worst of it and the heels began working over Hunter back in the ring.
 
Hunter escaped the beating with a clothesline on Miz, then dropped Truth with a DDT once Truth tagged in. Punk tagged in moments later and cleaned house. The action moved to the floor again and Hunter threw Truth into the front row. In the ring, Punk delivered a Macho Man elbow drop. Suddenly, Kevin Nash re-appeared ringside and attacked Triple H. In the confusion, Miz and Truth hit a double-team finisher on Punk. Miz then made the cover on Punk for the win as the fans booed, not necessarily because of the heels cheating, but the anticlimactic finish.
 
Post-match: Nash threw Hunter into the ring steps, then climbed into the ring. Nash delivered knees to the gut as Lawler asked how Nash got into the arena. Nash then delivered a Jackknife Powerbomb and left the ring. No security to escort away the "non-employee." Nash just slowly left the ring and disappeared through the crowd again as people pulled out their cameras to document his arrival. Lawler wanted to know who was behind Nash being able to enter the arena. Booker, not paying attention to the plot that an authority figure is helping out Nash, said Nash must have bought a ticket. Cole showed he was paying attention by shooting down the ticket purchase theory. After a few replays of the Powerbomb, they showed Hunter collecting himself in the ring. Hunter was helped out of the ring while selling a left shoulder/elbow injury based on how he landed on the mat during the Powerbomb.
 
WINNERS: Miz & Truth at 15:24. Snoozer tag match with no juice behind it, which is reflective of the poor state of WWE's top storyline. With Nash, WWE keeps "re-heating the steak" and the audience didn't react much to the third or fourth installment of Nash returning as an "outsider." It looks like Hunter's injury - storyline or legit - will lead to an in-ring write-off. That remains to be seen since WWE did plant seeds for a Hunter-Nash one-on-one contest. (*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 24 2011, 01:19 pm
6 -- RANDY ORTON vs. Intercontinental champion CODY RHODES -- non-title match
 
Cole noted Rhodes scored a victory over Orton a few weeks ago as Orton dominated early on. Rhodes absorbed the attack and went on the offensive for a few minutes, scoring a few close falls. Rhodes became frustrated and went for a top-rope moonsault that Orton easily avoided. Orton then took Rhodes up top, but Rhodes knocked him to the mat and scored with a moonsault on his second attempt. Orton kicked out in time, though.

One of Rhodes's baggers then randomly hopped on the ring apron and Orton decked him. Rhodes followed with Cross Rhodes, but Orton kicked out. Rhodes sold frustration, then dropped to the mat and started pounding the mat as if he were going for the RKO. That woke up the crowd. Orton popped to his feet and blocked with a dropkick, though. Orton then did his own mat-pounding routine, but another bagger hopped on the ring apron. Orton sent Rhodes flying into the bagger, then Orton hit the RKO for the win.
 
WINNER: Orton at 12:14. Basic singles match with Rhodes scoring a handful close falls to retain some credibility, but the completely random bagger involvement took this down a notch. At the end of the day, this felt like another match that won't matter after this PPV is over. (*1/2)

7 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. RANDY ORTON -- World Title match
 
After the two big men locked up, Show landed a flurry of offense to send Henry reeling to the outside. Henry returned to the ring and was knocked off his feet again. Henry rolled to the floor to regroup again as Show waited for him to get back in the ring. Henry walked over to the other side of the ring and asked for his title belt to leave the match, but Show cut him off and threw Henry back into the ring. Getting back into the ring, though, Show was cut down at the knees. Henry followed with a big bodyslam as the announcers suggested Henry suckered Show to the outside. Henry then went to work on Show with a methodical attack. The two men then slowly came to their feet simultaneously, stared at each other across the ring, and knocked each other down with double clotheslines.
 
The two men reset and Show went on the offensive. After knocking Henry off his feet, Show delivered a big chokeslam, but Henry kicked out in time. Show regrouped and teased his big KO Punch, but Henry avoided and delivered a World's Strongest Slam center-ring. Henry made the cover, but Show kicked out. After selling shock, Henry shouted, "What?!" before trying to re-strategize. The strategy included a top-rope attempt, but Show caught Henry and delivered a Super Chokeslam. Show made an immediate cover, but Henry kicked out again. Show sold disbelief this time.
 
The two men reset again with Show looking around the ring trying to figure out what to do next. Show decided to follow Henry's lead by trying a top-rope move, but Henry cut him off. Booker said he hopes the ring is reinforced. Henry went for a superplex and WWE cut away to a wide shot, which foreshadowed the ring collapsing. The crowd popped at the sight as the announcers sold shock over the moment.
 
After several replays, the WWE trainer hit the ring to check on both men. Paramedics were called to ringside before WWE went to a few different angles of the superplex. Since a gurney was not big enough to hold Show or Henry, an arena cart was brought to ringside. Smackdown GM Teddy Long and John Laurinaitis came out to check on the situation. No official word yet on the outcome. "Big Show" chant as the two men were helped out of the ring. Show was placed on a cart while Henry was dropped on the floor. Henry then flung everyone away, wanting no one to help him. Long tried to get Henry help, but he refused. After another replay of the ring collapse, medics and refs eventually helped Henry to his feet to help him walk out of the ring. Laurinaitis then took a mic and introduced himself. After introducing himself, he said that no matter what injuries were sustained by Henry and Show and regardless of the structural damage to the ring, he's going to give everyone what they want: a WWE Title match tonight. Laurinaitis said he hopes everyone agrees with his decision. Weird promo.
 
WINNER: No Decision announced. It was clear WWE had to find an out to avoid a finish since they weren't going to have Henry drop the title and they didn't want Show to lose in his PPV return. Henry seemed to lose some mystique during the match, but he recovered with the superplex and WWE focusing on him as he left the ring under his own power in the post-match. (**1/2)

8 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match -- Last Man Standing match
 
Once the bell sounded, Ricardo tried to jump into the ring, but Cena knocked him down. Del Rio used the distraction to take control and suplex Cena onto the broken ring. The announcers stressed the old line about "the show must go on" that Laurinaitis used earlier to defend the worked conditions. Lawler then dropped in a Brock Lesnar reference about the last time he saw something like this. The crowd picked up a "Let's go Cena / Cena sucks" chant as Del Rio went to work on Cena. Del Rio snapped off a series of suplexes as the announcers stressed the idea of the entire ring possibly collapsing with each move.

Cena made a comeback and wanted a Five Knuckle Shuffle, but he didn't have any ropes to bounce off, so he just dropped the fist to the face. Del Rio avoided an AA, though, and tried to unhook one of the loose ropes, but then walked into a gutwrench suplex. Cena followed with an Attitude Adjustment, but Del Rio got up at an eight count. Cena wanted another AA, but Ricardo entered the ring. Cena kicked him away, but then walked into a submission from Del Rio. Cena sold that he passed out in the hold, but he got to his feet at a six count. Del Rio, frustrated, tried to charge Cena, but Super Cena flung him out of the no-ropes ring into the barricade.
 
On the floor, Cena threw Del Rio face-first into the barricade. Cena tried a whip into the ring steps, but Del Rio reversed and Cena ate the ring steps. Moments later, Ricardo ate one of the loose ringposts crotch-first. Cena, now recovered, started re-arranging ring steps, but took a kick to the gut and blow into the steps. Del Rio then aimed the steps toward Cena's head and Cena did the rest selling a blow to the head. Cena returned to his feet at eight and the two men fought up the entrance ramp to the backstage area.
 
Backstage, Del Rio went flying over a catering table and various supplies went flying. Cena then approached a giant traveling trunk and tried dumping it onto Del Rio, but Del Rio slipped out of the way. Del Rio then suplexed Cena onto the case. After a seven count, Cena stumbled toward the promo area, where Del Rio dumped four aluminum back drop structures onto Cena. The ref started his count as the only visible body parts were Cena's ankles. Cena then powered out of the "rubble," as Cole called it, and reached his feet at nine.
 
The fight spilled back into the arena and the two men traded blows on the floor below the staging area. Ricardo interjected himself out of nowhere to help Del Rio, who then threw Cena through the base of the "V" structure on the stage. An easy "V is for Vengeance" line was missed by the announcers. Cena escaped, though, as Del Rio randomly started climbing another structure. Cena then yanked Del Rio off the structure through a wood table below. Fans shrieked as Cena waited in the background as the ref applied a ten count. Del Rio made it up, though, and the fight spilled into the crowd.
 
The action returned to the ringside area at 23:00. Cena ate the announce table and fell into one of the leather chairs as the announcers sold concern over their well-being. Cena recovered, of course, and knocked down both Del Rio and Ricardo. Cena then measured Del Rio for a Super AA from the ring steps through the Spanish announce table and he connected. The crowd popped and Cena said that's it. Cena rolled back into the ring to wait for a ref's count. But, Miz and Truth stormed the ring and attacked Cena. The ref was focused on Cena, who was KO'ed by Miz and Truth. The ref then began his count on both men as Del Rio started moving. Del Rio made his feet as Cena remained KO'ed in the ring. The crowd rallied behind Cena, who made it back to his feet at nine. Del Rio then blasted Cena with a belt shot and the ref began his count again. On the floor, Del Rio pulled himself up at eight, the ref reached nine, and the ref reached ten with Cena still on the mat. Del Rio then collapsed to the floor after ten, still WWE champion.
 
Post-match: Lawler and Booker talked down Cole, who defended the outcome. Booker said Cena should be WWE champion right now. Del Rio was shown walking up the rampway, still in possession of the WWE Title belt. Cole played up shock and never-before-seen as the talking points coming out of this, since that's the shifting sand WWE's business is built on now. They closed the PPV with a final shot of Cena selling disbelief in the broken ring and signed off at 10:57 p.m., just before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Del Rio at 26:58 to retain the WWE Title. It had all the tricks & funny business expected for this type of match, especially with Cena not winning the title. Since WWE is in the John Cena business, they had to protect him taking the loss, and they set up Miz and Truth as two of the likely opponents for Cena and Rock at Survivor Series. The match itself had a "big fight feel," which helped overcome some issues like a lack of selling and constant interference. It was also interesting the announcers avoided noting Cena's character picked this stipulation and it came back to back-fire on him, which would have made Cena seem weaker in defeat. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 26 2011, 02:41 am
ROH TV Results: 10-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_54506.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Bobby Cruise did the ring introductions before they went to the “Tale of the Tape” graphic. Mondo was listed as having a 16 pound weight advantage over Perkins. Both men shook hands before the bell rung.

1 - - T.J. PERKINS vs. MIKE MONDO

Perkins took down Mondo with a dropkick early. After a series of quick exchanges, Perkins locked Mondo in a Boston crab that he turned into a reverse walking chair. Perkins let go and locked in an STF, but Mondo got the ropes. Perkins tied up Mondo in the corner and nailed him with a running dropkick. Perkins went for a dive, but Mondo got out of the way. Perkins walked over near the ropes, but Mondo dragged him to the outside and shoved him into the guardrail. Mondo then nailed Perkins with a senton off the apron that popped the crowd.

Kelly mentioned Mondo had held the OVW Championship many times. McGuinness continued to repeat that Perkins had wrestled all over the world. Kelly thanked Poison’s Bret Michaels for promoting them on twitter. Kelly then plugged ROH’s twitter while Mondo got the heat on Perkins. Kelly said Cornette would speak to the Briscoes in the next segment and make a ruling on the #1 contender for the ROH World Tag Team Titles while Mondo grabbed a headlock.

Perkins fought back and both men exchanged forearms. Perkins won the exchange and locked himself in the ropes. Mondo charged at him, but Perkins got out of the way and he went flying through the ropes to the outside. Perkins then followed up with a dive through the ropes. Perkins followed up with a springboard dropkick to the back of the head for a 2 count. Mondo stumbled around as Perkins stalked him. Mondo countered the detonation, but Perkins caught him in the figure 4 death lock. Mondo quickly reached the ropes and Perkins went on the attack in the corner. The lights are way too bright from the floor camera looking up. Mondo fired back and caught Perkins with a code breaker. Mondo followed up with a dropkick to the face, but Perkins kicked out. McGuinness said Perkins was going to be mad. Mondo yelled at the ref and Perkins went for a superkick. Mondo blocked it, but Perkins nailed him with another superkick. They did a bunch of stuff and Perkins caught Mondo in a pinning combination for the pin.

Mondo refused to shake hands after the match.

Winner: T.J. Perkins

2 - - ROH TV Champion JAY LETHAL vs. MIKE BENNETT (w/Brutal Bob)

McGuinness and Kelly touched on Bennett’s ego. Both men locked up and came to a stalemate. Lethal hit an arm drag into a dropkick for a 2 count. McGuiness said Lethal has a fantastic move set, which you need to succeed in ROH. The fans chanted for Lethal as both men went back and forth. Bennett ended up catching Lethal with a dropkick for a 2 count. Lethal fired right back and dropkicked Bennett off the ring to the outside. Bennett got out of the way before Lethal could complete a dive to the outside. Lethal slid to the outside and both men battled on the outside. Several fans chanted for Kevin Steen. Kelly said they were chanting for a controversial figure. Bennett got the upper hand and slammed Lethal into the ring apron.

Lethal fired back quickly and locked in a unique leg submission on Bennett in the middle of the ring. Lethal then bridged up using his legs to push Bennett’s arms up. Bennett screamed, but Lethal let go of the hold when he could no longer support Bennett’s weight. Kelly mentioned that Lethal and Bennett wrestled in a competitive match at “Best in the World” that Lethal won.

Lethal continued the attack as fans chanting “this is wrestling.” Lethal went up top. McGuinness said it was too early. Bob grabbed Lethal’s leg and he shook him off. Bennett caught Lethal going for a springboard and dropped him neck-first over the top rope. Bennett followed up with a nice clothesline for a 2 count as Bob taunted Lethal from the outside. The crowd chanted for Lethal as Bennett taunted them heading into a commercial.

Back from commercial, Lethal fired back at Bennett with a chop, but Bennett caught him with a clothesline in the corner. Bennett followed up with a neckbreaker for a 2 count. Kelly pitched to a split-screen shot of some action that took place during the commercial break. They actually made the replay screen bigger with the live action in the background, which is something I have been in favor of doing for several weeks.

Bennett taunted Lethal and told him to get up. Bennett stomped away at Lethal in the corner as the crowd tried to rally behind Lethal. Kelly ran down a list of past TV Champions as Bennett caught a charging Lethal with a nice powerslam for a nearfall. Bennett grabbed a body-scissors submission on the mat as the fans chanted for Lethal. Bennett began driving some elbows into the side of Lethal’s head. Lethal tried to unlock himself from Bennett’s grasp. He finally broke free with an elbow to Bennett’s head. McGuinness put over “Final Battle” as the Super Bowl of pro wrestling. Bennett grabbed a front face lock and dragged Lethal back down to the mat. The fans tried to rally behind Lethal again as Bennett squeezed on the hold.

Lethal tried to rally to his feet as the crowd roared. Lethal fired back with a punch and a chop. He followed up with an inverted atomic drop as McGuinness told Bennett to suck it up. Lethal ran wild on Bennett as Cruise announced there were under three minutes left in the match. A clock with the time remaining in the match was posted in the corner of the screen as Lethal hit a neckbreaker for a 2 count.

Lethal teased going up top, but he saw Bennett moving and went back on the attack. Bennett fought back and both men exchanged blows. Lethal went for a springboard, but Bennett countered it into a spinebuster for a 2 count with under 2 minutes remaining. Bennett sold frustration, but went back on the attack. Lethal fought free of Bennett and landed on his feet out of a German attempt. Lethal hit a DDT as the time remaining neared 1 minute, but Bennett kicked out. Bennett caught Lethal with a cradle for a 2 count, but Lethal came right out of the pin attempt and nailed Bennett with a superkick. Lethal went up top for the elbow drop, but Bennett rolled out of the way. Bennett mounted Lethal and nailed him with a series of punches with less than 30 seconds left. The announcers teased that the ref might stop the match. Lethal countered and rolled on top of Bennett, but the time limit expired.

Winner: Time limit draw

Star rating: (***1/2) – I liked this match more than the match Davey Richards had with Roderick Strong two weeks ago. Both men told a good story and built drama throughout the match. They also did all of the little things right when it came to telling a pro wrestling story in the ring. Both men worked submissions extremely well, as the camera caught their facial expressions whether it was Bennett cranking on a hold or Lethal selling for him. The crowd was behind Lethal and against Bennett. I highly recommend checking out this match. The only thing I don’t like is the repetition of working around the time limit draw within such a short period of time, as we just saw Generico and Lethal get more time a few weeks back when Lethal won the ROH TV Title in the extra time period.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 26 2011, 02:43 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_54518.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

Opening of RAW- Triple H comes out mad, demands Kevin Nash, Laurinaitis tells Trips to calm down, he leaves and gets attack on the stage from behind by Nash. Trips gets strapped in gurney, attacked again by Nash. Yeah, in real life, Nash would be in jail for assault but not in the WWE Universe. ;)

28 minutes later...

1 -- RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS vs. IC champion CODY RHODES & CHRISTIAN

Orton dominated Christian early on, resuming their summer-long World Title feud. Rhodes then tagged in and took some offense from Sheamus before Rhodes cut him off. Rhodes with a reverse chinlock on Sheamus as Cole robotically fed to a break at 2:45.

Back from break, Sheamus was still being worked over by the heels. Orton took a hot tag and cleaned house before delivering his trademark DDT from the second rope to Christian. Orton set up for the RKO on Christian, but Rhodes distracted him and Christian nailed a flying elbow strike to give the heels the advantage again. Christian took too long setting up for a second-rope, which allowed Orton to intercept him with a dropkick.

Sheamus tagged in and delivered impactful offense on Rhodes, but he couldn't put him away. Sheamus tried the Brogue Kick, but Rhodes avoided, then nailed a step-up kick to the jaw. Christian nailed a spear behind the ref's back, but Orton broke up a pin by Rhodes. The action broke down at this point before Orton nailed the RKO on Christian. Rhodes then dumped Orton over the top rope. Sheamus tried to intercept Rhodes with a Brogue Kick, but the move was botched. Sheamus quickly recovered and delivered the High Cross on Rhodes for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Orton & Sheamus at 11:27. Nice, professional TV tag match the crowd invested in. Orton and Sheamus continue to be protected as future World Title contenders and the heels were given enough offense to retain some credibility. Basically a copy & paste of last night's PPV. (**)

2 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jack Swagger) vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

Ziggler didn't take Santino seriously early on, so Santino dropped him with a hip toss. Ziggler, angered, started a methodical attack. Santino ducked a clothesline, though, and delivered another hip toss followed by a sailor's salute fist drop. Santino then wanted the Cobra, but Swagger provided a distraction. Ziggler with the Zig-Zag for the win.

Post-match: Swagger and Ziggler put the boots to Santino before Swagger slapped on the anklelock. Suddenly, Mason Ryan hit the ring to little reaction. Ryan cleared the heels from the ring and started ranting and raving in the ring. On the floor, Ziggler and Swagger no-sold Ryan, who continued to scream and shout.

WINNER: Ziggler at 1:48.

Alberto Del Rio comes out to a victory speech, says no one is better than him. Out comes CM Punk to say otherwise. Another appearance by GM Laurinaitis, demands respect from Punk...yeah, you don't need to guess how that went. Punk attacks Del Rio, ends up putting the GTS on Ricardo.

3 -- NATALYA (w/Divas champion Beth Phoenix) vs. ALICIA FOX

Natalya dominated the match, but too much taunting caught up with her, as Alicia scored a quick roll-up pin for the win. Afterward, Kelly Kelly and Eve were shown watching the match on a backstage monitor and having a laugh at Natalya's expense. Beth and Natalya attempted a post-match beating on Alicia, but she made it out of the ring to safety.

WINNER: Alicia at 2:15.

4 -- JOHN MORRISON vs. WADE BARRETT

Lawler asked Cole why he keeps tweeting during the show instead of paying attention to the show. Cole referenced Jim Ross and said he's trying to set the record straight on Ross's potshots. Barrett dominated early on and took Morrison to the floor, where he threw Morrison into the barricade. They cut to break with Barrett in control.

Back from break, Barrett continued to punish and dismantle Morrison. Meanwhile, Cole said he's about to embarrass Ross after all of the things Ross has said about him tonight online. Barrett lost control, then Morrison nailed a knee strike to the face for a two count when Barrett reached the ropes. Barrett came back with a spinning sidewalk slam for a two count, then tried Wasteland, but Morrison countered with a legsweep. Morrison then wanted Starship Pain, but Barrett avoided. Morrison then tried a springboard move and landed on Barrett's shoulders, but Barrett couldn't hold him and dropped him to the mat. A la Sheamus in the opening match, Barrett recovered with a second attempt at Wasteland for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Barrett at 9:08. WWE is trying to sell a resurgence for Barrett, but it's the boy who cried wolf since WWE has tried this four or five times since writing him off from Nexus earlier this year.

Miz and Truth jump Ryder before the match and take him out...

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH -- handicap match

Cena dominated each opponent individually to begin the match, then the heels used the numbers advantage to cut off Cena and begin working him over. Cole noted Cena has switched to camo trunks to honor the U.S. military. Cole added that Austin is close to Fort Hood, which hosted Tribute to the Troops last year.

Cole reset things at the top of the hour, noting Hunter is currently hospitalized following an attack by Nash earlier in the show. The crowd started a dueling chant as the heels continued to wear down Cena. Cena fought back against Miz and set him up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted the AA on Miz, but Truth smashed Cena with a steel water bottle, causing a DQ.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 4:49.

Post-match: Miz and Truth inflicted a beating on Cena. The heels then left the ring to retrieve steel chairs. Suddenly, Laurinaitis walked out on-stage, flanked by referees. He said he's not standing for chaos and they have disrespected him like Punk did earlier tonight. He said he wants them to get out of the ring. Now. Miz and Truth slowly walked out of the ring, turning their backs on Laurinaitis.

Laurinaitis then told them to stop. He's now going to allow Cena to choose his own partner for a legit tag match. Therefore, Miz and Truth will be teaming up at Survivor Series against Cena and a partner of his choice. Cena yanked the mic away from Laurinaitis, collected himself, and accused Laurinaitis of a set-up. He then paused to reflect on being able to choose anyone he wants. Cena told Miz and Truth he's sick of them thinking they run this show, but if he's going to defeat them, then his partner is going to have to be someone who can bring out. Pause for "Rocky, Rocky" chant. Not out of friendship, but he chooses his partner to be...The Rock. "Are you kidding me?!" Truth shouted toward Miz, who sold shock. Cena then stood in the ring as the announcers called Cena & Rock possibly the biggest pairing in WWE history. WWE stayed with back-and-forth shots of Cena and Miz & Truth for a while before they signed off eight minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 30 2011, 04:28 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 10-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54608.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - PERCY WATSON vs. JTG

Regal applauds the beginning of the match and says he is tired of hearing the Rookies talk nonsense and delivering bad promos. Basic wrestling with Percy controlling JTG.

Watson with a nice throw off the break, and the announcers says he was on top all during the break. Watson attacks JTG's back, then face, and JTG hilariously groans, "Oohhh, my back! Ooohhh, my face!" That may be the only time JTG has every entertained me. JTG finally feeds Watson his knee as Watson comes into the ring, and then runs him over outside. JTG rolls Watson in and makes the cover for one. JTG with a spinning neckbreaker that gets two. Regal says he hates praising JTG and then knocks the talking segment again (with good reason). Korpella with a great point that the difficulty of the talking segment shows how hard it is to be a "Superstar." I'm not sure if he came up with that on his own or through the magic headset, but I would like to see WWE reinforce that point more often.

JTG off the top turnbuckle, but Watson steps back and turns it into a facebuster on his knee. Regal keeps hammering home the idea that Watson needs a mentor, Korpella says Regal should do it but Regal says it wouldn't work. Watson back on the attack with the dropkick and a shoulder tackle, and his leaping, turning splash for two. Watson fires up. Watson with his finisher (fireman's carry to a flapjack) that Korpella calls the "Persecution." That feels really wrong for a face character.

WINNER: Percy Watson in 10:00. Perfectly fine match. They did the right thing by limited JTG's traditionally boring offense, and letting the face win after slowly wearing down the opponent with offense. It's so rare to see the wrestler with the most offense actually win a match now.

2 - JEY USO (w/Jimmy Uso) vs. TYSON KIDD (w/Curt Hawkins)

I suspect Curt's cane will come into play here to give Kidd a dirty win...

Kidd with early offense and just dominates the larger Jey, but Jey turns it around with heavy punches in the corner. They trade offense in the corner and Jey gets the better end of it, and manages a two count. Kidd with a kick to a telegraphed back body drop and a dropkick for two, then puts Jey in the corner again. Regal praises the Uso's work ethic while Tyson dominates. Korpella rightfully asks why Curt is ringside when he is suspended. Korpella and Regal are talking Twitter, ugh. Jey back on offense.

It looks like Jey is trying to wrestle a tag match - he looks for a hot tag that isn't there, and then tries the "Alley-Us" double team move for no reason (which Kidd slips out of). It makes Jey look really incompetent. Jey superkicks Tyson and then goes to the top rope for the Superfly Splash. Hawkins tries to distract him with the cane, but Jey doesn't notice. Kidd gets the knees up and then does his spinning neckbreaker finisher for the win.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd in 8:00. Kidd looked great, as always, but Jey looked lost without Jimmy. Kidd's upside is unlimited if he can tighten up his promos a bit.

3 - KAITLYN vs. TAMINA

Tamina dodges a lock-up attempt and shoves Kaitlyn down. They trade blows and Kaitlyn gets a dropkick and a hip toss, then a splash the in the corner and knees to the gut. Tamina shoves her off and hits a monster superkick. She taunts and eventually covers for two. Tamina with a sloppy hold. Kaitlyn escapes and tries a roll-up for one. Tamina with a clothesline and gets mad at the ref because it's just two. Tamina pushes Kaitlyn around a bit, then moves to another submission hold. Kaitlyn fights out but Tamina puts her back down. Tamina with a fireman's carry, but Kaitlyn shimmies down her back and rolls her up for the win.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 3:00. Tamina's offense looked typically sloppy. Kaitlyn was fine with her limited time to shine.

4 - TITUS O'NEIL vs. DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Maxine)

Bateman outwits Titus on the first lock-up. Maxine's happy that Derrick shaved his mustache. Korpella wants details on the rivalry between Maxine and A.J. Bateman dominates Titus and Maxine says she hates when women act like girls (or is it the other way around?). Titus is now showing off his usual offense. Maxine insinuates that A.J. was in an relationship with Titus and Hornswoggle at the same time. Derrick goes to the announcer table but Maxine encourages him back. Titus rolls Bateman into the ring, but Bateman drop kicks him back to the outside when he comes in. Maxine points out that Titus has been calling her fish lips but his mouth looks like a horse's with big teeth. Fair enough. Bateman re-lives last week with a missile dropkick from the apron to Titus on the outside and the same intense look as Maxine praises him.

Bateman rolls Titus into the ring and makes the cover, which is good for one. Bateman abuses Titus in the corner. Maxine denies that she's with Derrick for personal gain. A.J. says Maxine is only with Derrick to get onto NXT. Titus makes a comeback and does a shoulder breaker, then a pair of shoulder tackles, a running clothesline, and he grabs the ropes and barks. O'Neil to the top rope but Derrick dodges the shoulder tackle and rolls Titus up for the win.

WINNER: Derrick Bateman in 8:00. Good match, but the bickering between the ladies got a little but too heavy. I would have liked to hear either Maxine or A.J. on commentary by themselves.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 30 2011, 04:29 am
WWE Superstars Results: 10-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_54634.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - CODY RHODES vs. TED DIBIASE

Ted and Cody trade holds and takedowns until Ted knocks Cody down with a shoulder block. The crowd rallies behind Ted. What has Ted DiBiase done to get fans to chant his name? Hand out free drinks at the gate? Huge back-body drop by DiBiase puts him fully in charge. Cody makes a comeback and gets in some sustained, basic offense. Ted dumps Cody to the outside by dodging a charge, they take it to the outside and Cody tries the Beautiful Disaster kick bouncing off the apron, but Ted dropkicks him in midair and they go to commercial.

Back from break, Code and Ted trade offense in the corner. Korpella brings up ancient history, Dusty Rhodes leading a team against Ted BiBiase's team at Survivor Series 20 years ago. That's the kind of thing I expect from Matt Striker. Striker knows that Rhodes will go for a submission hold about 30 seconds before he does, which is rather funny. Ted get in some brief offense, but Rhodes cuts him off. Ted fires off a series of punches but Cody gets legs up when Ted charges. Ted does the turnaround clothesline and atomic drop combo, then a clothesline for two. Ted catches Rhodes with a spinebuster for another two count. Rhodes to the top rope and hits a moonsault for two. DiBiase just stood there waiting for it, this looks dumb. Roll-up from Cody for two. Rhodes fights off Ted at the ropes and gets Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Cody Rhodes in 13:00. I thought this match dragged and was of the more boring Cody Rhodes or Ted DiBiase matches I've seen in a long time. I didn't there was any juice here and both men moved at a snail's pace.

2 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. JINDER MAHAL

Jackson wins an early lockup with a shoulder block for two. Jinder fights back but Jackson with a suplex. Mahal comes out of the corner strong. Jinder with heel offense using the ropes. Jinder locks in a cravat and hits multiple kneelifts to Jackson. Jackson turns it around with multiple clotheslines in the corner and starts his never-ending bodyslam sequence. Mahal cuts it off at two, but Jackson gets in more offense. Jackson with the torture rack and Mahal taps within seconds.

WINNER: Ezekiel Jackson in 5:00. I like Mahal's ringwork, but there seems to be no hope for Jackson.

3 - WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. JTG & PRIMO - non-title tag match

JTG starts by bullying Kofi, who responds with kicks, but JTG knocks him down. Kofi with a back elbow and tags in Bourne for a tag team. JTG tags in Primo, but Bourne does a sweet takedown with his legs for one. Primo in control for a moment. Cool spot where Primo jumps in the corner to get behind a charging Evan, who stops short, and hits the turnbuckle for a springboard move, but Primo catches him and Bourne transitions to a huracanrana, followed by a dropkick. Primo dodges Bourne's follow-up and tags in JTG, who stomps on Bourne. Stanford with a series of "JTG is so fly..." and "JTG is so cool..." comments. Primo tags in and keeps Borne isolated. The crowd rallies for Bourne, but Primo tries to cut him off.

Evan does a slick roll-through which allows him to catapult over Primo and tag in Kofi, who goes to work with a Superman punch and clotheslines, and a dropkick. Kofi misses another Superman punch in the corner, but catches Primo with a pendulum kick when he tries to capitalize. Kofi cuts off JTG's interference and gets a big springboard crossbody for two. He calls for the Boom Drop, gets it, then signals for Trouble in Paradise. JTG interferes, letting Primo roll up Kofi for two. Kofi nails SOS, but JTG breaks up the pin. Bourne clears JTG out, Primo knocks Evan to the apron but Evan gets a roundhouse kick to Primo's head. As Primo staggers away, he walks into the Trouble in Paradise. Kofi tags in Bourne, who gets Air Bourne for the pin.

WINNERS: Air Boom in 8:00. Did anyone really think JTG & Primo had a chance against Air Boom? All the same, it was a decent match, and it's good to see Primo getting quality ring time. Nice match to continue to build Air Boom as a team. I won't be shocked if they hold the titles for a while. Also, Air Boom seems to (finally) have their own true tag team music.

4 - EVE TORRES & KELLY KELLY vs. THE BELLA TWINS - Tag Team Match

Eve's new music is just as bad as her old music. The Bellas mock Kelly Kelly's and Eve's fascination with their own rumps, but Even takes advantage, including a standing moonsault for two. They turn it around and use distractions to keep control. The Bellas are quite entertaining as heels, with their taunts. Brie tags in and Eve pushes her away, but Brie catches up and knocks Kelly Kelly down, drags Eve back to the corner, and tags in Nikki. Nikki picks Eve up and throws her down, and slaps on an armbar, but Eve forgets to sell for a moment. Brie on the apron holds her ears to block out Eve's screams. Nikki shrugs off a sunset flip and brings Brie back in. Brie with more armbars.

Eve powers out of the armbar by turning it into a Samoan Drop and tags in Kelly, who does her ill-conceived Thesz Press, clears Nikki, then catches Brie with her helicopter spin, then the World's Weakest Bulldog (that really should be the name of that move). Next, the stinkface, but a distracted ref lets Nikki cheap shot Kelly. Eve comes in, and Brie ties to capitalize, but Kelly Kelly gets the K2 legdrop for the win.

WINNERS: Kelly Kelly & Eve in 5:00. This was a perfectly fine match until Kelly Kelly tagged in. Until she shows improvement, I don't think she has any business in a ring except as a house show host. The Bella Twins have come so far in the last few years and really hit their stride as heels.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 30 2011, 04:32 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 10-27-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_54633.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. ROB VAN DAM

Daniels was ridiculously happy with himself after shoulder blocking RVD to the mat in the opening seconds. He cartwheeled over RVD and then went into a jackknife pin attempt. Styles joined Tenay and Taz on commentary. Styles said he'd rather be in the ring beating the piss out of Daniels. Taz said he could do that; it'd be fine by them. RVD avoided a Best Moonsault EVer and then took control. Daniels avoided an RVD top rope Five-Star move, but RVD adjusted and landed on his feet. Daniels went to the floor. RVD slidekicked him into the railing. RVD hit a leaping spin wheel kick off the ring apron onto Daniels who was teetering over the ringside barrier. RVD was slow to get up, too. Daniels crawled over and grabbed a tool box under the ring and hit RVD with it, getting himself DQ'd. Taz said, "That's what a coward does!"

WINNER: RVD via DQ in 4:00.

-Afterward Styles charged out to stop Daniels from attacking RVD further. Daniels fled the scene like he had just stolen a stereo from a car and the car owner showed up and was chasing him with a tire iron. RVD and Styles walked to the back together.

2 -- TARA vs. GAIL KIM

Taz and Tenay talked up Tara's credentials. Kim attacked Tara at ringside. She dominated at the start and threw her to ringside. Karen didn't like when Traci checked on Tara's condition at ringside. They cut to an early break at 1:00. After the break, Kim remained in control and dominated until winning clean.

WINNER: Kim in 8:00.

3 -- ERIC YOUNG vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) -- TV Title Match

Young wore two title belts to the ring. Taz said he wants Young to shave that beard. Young hit an early belly-to-belly suplex that Taz compared to Magnum T.A. Young scored a pin with a crucifix in about a minute.

WINNER: Young in 1:00 to retain the TV Title.

-Afterward Terry attacked Young from behind, then held him for Robbie to punch in the gut. Robbie called for one more shot. Then he kneed him in the gut. As Robbie and Terry walked toward the stage, Young got up gasping and told them he had something to say. He said: "You punched me in my stomach. Who does that?" That's funny. He said he's never been accused of being the smartest guy, but he is a man of his word. He said now that Terry got involved, he has to bring in the Hollywood heavies. He said in Macon, Ga. he'll bring in Jersey Shore's Ronnie.

4 -- BULLY RAY vs. JEFF HARDY

Bully continued to beat on Hardy as the match officially began. They cut to a break a minute in. After the break, Hardy made a comeback with a Whisper in the Wind out of nowhere, but Ray fired right back with a boot as Hardy rebounded off the ropes. Ray sold the Whisper for a few seconds as Hardy lay flat on his back in the ring. Ray then settled into a nerve hold. Tenay plugged that Ronnie from "Jersey Shore" will be on Impact next week, plus Storm faces the winner of the Joe-Roode match next. At 6:00 Hardy elbowed out of a nerve hold, but Ray pounded him back to the mat quickly. Hardy came back with a legdrop off the ropes for a two count. Ray came back with a backdrop, but missed a splash mid-ring. Hardy then nailed the Twist of Fate out of nowhere, then climbed to the top rope and nailed the Swanton for the win.

WINNER: Hardy in 9:00. STAR RATING: **

5 -- ROBERT ROODE vs. SAMOA JOE -- Winner Is No. 1 Contender for World Hvt. Title

Jeremy Borash did formal ring introductions. Joe escaped an early crossface attempt and bailed out to ringside to regroup. Joe came back with a snap powerslam, big boot, and sexton splash for a two count at 3:00.

Tenay plugged that next week the winner of this match faces James Storm for the TNA World Title, then with equal excitement plugged that Ronnie from "Jersey Shore" would be on the show. Both men were down at 4:00 and slow to get up. Joe got up and rallied and got a near fall. He played to the crowd and set up the fisherman's suplex, but Joe countered with a fireman's carry drop onto Roode's head for a two count of his own. Joe then set up a Muscle Buster out of the corner, but Roode slipped free and countered with a crossface. Joe rolled Roode back onto his shoulders for a two count in a nice counter. He followed up by driving Roode's knee into the mat, then set up a figure-four. Roode kicked Joe off of him and hit the fisherman's suplex for the win.

WINNER: Roode in 6:00 to earn a title shot next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on October 30 2011, 04:33 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 10-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_54661.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – R-TRUTH & THE MIZ vs. AIR BOOM

Miz’s knee-lift on Kingston was the first impact move of the match, :36 in. Headscissors take-down by Bourne on Truth. Kick to the head, and Miz had to be chased back to his corner. That allowed Truth to knock Bourne to ringside. Miz took a cheap shot at Bourne while he was outside the ring. Strange seeing the babyface team tagging out of the lower right corner of the camera, rather than the upper left, where they are usually stationed. They went to break with the heels in control at 2:11 of the match.

Back, 6:07 into the contest. Miz pulled Bourne up with a chicken wing, then tagged Truth. Some double-teaming by the heels led to a two-count on Bourne. Truth grabbed Bourne by the heel to stop him from making the tag. Bourne countered with an enziguiri. Tags were made by both men, and Kofi hit his signature spots. Springboard cross-body for two as Truth made the save. Running knee to the face by Bourne on Truth, but Bourne missed a cross-body onto Truth at ringside. Truth tagged himself in and they stopped Kofi with a combination of both men’s finishers.

WINNERS: Miz and Truth, at 8:23. I wonder if beating the tag champs will earn them a shot in the future, or if they’re too high up the food chain for WWE to worry about putting the straps on them.

2 – WADE BARRETT vs. TRENT BARRETA

Barreta was already in the ring out of break. Hurricanrana by Barreta early on, but he walked into a Boss Man Slam. Barrett stretched the arms of Barreta, then caught him with a knee-lift. Knees to the face by Barrett, followed by a running boot. Outside the ring, Barrett clotheslined Barreta. Barreta fired back with a chops back in the ring. He hesitated, and Barrett kicked him in the stomach. Cole spent the match talking about his challenge with JR set for Monday. Wasteland finished things.

WINNER: Barrett, at 2:32. Good win for Barrett to continue his winning ways, but shouldn’t he have started with Barreta and worked his way up to a match with Daniel Bryan, rather than the other way around?

3 – RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Before the match could begin, Cody Rhodes walked out with his baggers. “This is a pleasant surprise,” said Cole. Cole then said Rhodes is coming to join them for commentary. The bell rang to start the match, and Ziggler and Orton fought over a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Shoulder knock-down by Orton, then a rear chinlock at 1:05 of the match. Rhodes said he wouldn’t field any questions from Booker. Cole had played up Booker’s hatred for Cody as Rhodes made his entrance. Ziggler with a headlock take-down. Two minutes in and neither man had gained full advantage. Another headlock take-over. Rhodes said he’d have to wear his mask “for the foreseeable future.” Roll-up by Orton for two. High knee-drop by Orton. Ziggler got his boots up in the corner on an Orton charge and took over on offense. Orton shook off Ziggler, causing Ziggler to run out of the ring. Orton chased him and even leap-frogged over Vickie (who was at ringside with Dolph) during the chase. Vickie verbally abused Orton, who stood there looking at her with wide eyes. They went to break at 5:01 of the match.

Back at 8:32 of the match. European uppercut followed by a dropkick from Ziggler. Orton powered out of a rest-hold, but Ziggler planted him with a DDT. With Orton in a rest-hold, he had enough energy to yell for Vickie to “shut up!” Neck-breaker, lateral press for two. Ziggler to the top, but Orton crotched him. Superplex by Orton. No mention of the superplex that broke the ring at Vengeance. Orton made the pin, but only got two. Orton got the better of an exchange of rights in the middle of the ring, then hit all of his signature spots. Vintage Orton DDT. Ziggler dodged an RKO and superkicked Orton for two. Ziggler actually helped Orton slip out by leaning back too far while sitting on Orton’s chest. Booker smartly pointed that out. Sleeper was avoided by Orton, who then nailed him with the RKO.

WINNER: Orton, at 14:00. There’ve only been a few one-on-one encounters between these two, but it’s easy to tell they have great chemistry together.

4 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. TYSON KIDD

No entrance for Kidd. Kidd and Bryan began the match by continuing their argument from earlier. Kidd tried a Sharpshooter immediately, but Bryan took Kidd down with an arm-drag. Dragon Sleeper by Kidd. Cole said he had photos of JR training for the Cole challenge Monday night. Bryan connected with a running clothesline, then dropkicked Kidd in the corner. Booker again brought up Tim Tebow and how awesome his performance on Sunday. Cole said he’s just a nerd like Daniel Bryan. Action was fast and furious in the one. Another Sharpshooter attempt, but Bryan transitioned into the LeBell Lock. After a few seconds, Kidd tapped.

WINNER: Bryan, at 2:36. They fit a ton into the time allotted. Fast-paced match.

5 – CM PUNK vs. CHRISTIAN

Punk and Christian traded shoulder knock-downs. Heel kick by Punk for two, then he worked Christian’s arm. Cole talked about how John Laurinaitis does charity work on his time off. Flying European uppercut by Christian, but he missed a headbutt off the top. Punk set for the Go To Sleep, but Alberto Del Rio’s music played. Punk’s facial reactions while Christian was still in the GTS were funny. Christian backed out of the move and took Punk down for two. Ricardo Rodriguez and Del Rio walked to ringside as they went to break at 3:26.

The show returned at 7:14 of the match. Del Rio and Rodriguez were shown watching the match intently near the announce table. Christian attempted to keep Punk grounded. Inverted DDT by Christian for only a one-count. Punk was thrown out of the ring after Christian did some old-fashioned gouging of the eyes and nose. Christian sent Punk head-first into the announce table, then back into the ring for again, only a one-count. Punk fought back with kicks to the head and both men were down, 9:30 in. High back body-drop by Punk. Neck-breaker found the mark for a near-fall. Punk rolled through a sunset flip and kicked Christian in the head. Punk turned his attention to ADR ever so briefly, and that cost him. Cross-body off the top by Christian, but Punk rolled through again for two. Springboard clothesline was turned into a bodyslam by Christian. The men traded finisher attempts, but Punk hit the running knee and the bulldog. Rodriguez got on the apron, so Punk went to ringside, which chased Rodriguez all the way up the ramp. Springboard clothesline for two. Rodriguez was back to distract the ref once Punk went to the top rope. Del Rio crotched Punk, who fell to the mat. Christian then set up for the spear. Sheamus then ran out to run Rodriguez off. His music playing and his presence distracted Christian, allowing Punk to hit the GTS and eke out a win.

WINNER: Punk, at 13:25.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 02 2011, 01:22 am
ROH TV Results: 10-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_54721.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - KYLE O’REILLY vs. RODERICK STRONG (w/Truth Martini)

Martini discussed the Roderick Strong Invitational Challenge at “Final Battle.” Strong worked an arm bar, but O’Reilly escaped and grabbed a leg submission. Strong countered and went for a crossface, but O’Reilly got the ropes. Martini discussed how Strong had now found his purpose under his guidance. After a fast-paced exchange both men came to a stalemate. Strong shoved Richards and they exchanged slaps. O’Reilly took down Strong with a dropkick and got a small pop from the crowd. Strong fired back and hit a big chop. O’Reilly fired back and took down Strong with a heel trip for a 2 count. O’Reilly continued to dominate the action and got a 2 count with a northern lights suplex. O’Reilly charged Strong in the corner, but he countered and nailed O’Reilly with a backbreaker for a 2 count.

When they came back to commercial, Strong was still dominating the action. Strong grabbed a waist-lock on the mat as they went to footage of Strong chopping O’Reilly on the outside during the break. O’Reilly drove Strong into the corner to break the hold. O’Reilly caught Strong with an overhead suplex moments later and both men were down. O’Reilly caught Strong with a series of kicks and strikes once they got to their feet. O’Reilly dropped Strong’s arm over the top rope and followed up with a missile dropkick to Strong’s arm. Strong countered O’Reilly, but O’Reilly slipped out of a suplex attempt and hit a series of butterfly suplexes on Strong for a 2 count. The crowd showing their investment in the characters in the ring chanted “this is wrestling.” Strong countered O’Reilly up top and sent O’Reilly to the apron.

Strong nailed O’Reilly with several strikes in the corner. Strong followed up with a sit out powerbomb for a nearfall. Kelly said we’d hear from Lethal and Edwards in the “Inside ROH” segment tonight. O’Reilly countered a suplex attempt, but Strong caught him with a kick against the ropes. Strong hit a gut buster, but O’Reilly kicked out. Strong locked in the Stronghold, but O’Reilly eventually got the ropes. Strong set up for the Gibson driver. O’Reilly countered, but Strong caught him with a forearm. O’Reilly got a flash rollup and hit a DDT moments later. O’Reilly locked in a guillotine choke right after the DDT. Strong struggled and finally bridged O’Reilly onto his shoulders for a pin and he had to let go. Strong hit a knee strike and a series of blows to O’Reilly’s head. Strong got a running start and hit the sick kick for the pin.

Winner: Roderick Strong

2 - - ALEX SILVA vs. TOMASSO CIAMPA (w/The Embassy)

Corino said Ciampa doesn’t need a guy like Prince Nana at his side. McGuinness said he could take or leave Nana. Ciampa jumped Silva at the bell and pounded him in the corner. Silva dragged Ciampa to the outside and nailed him with a series of strikes. Ciampa shoved him into the guardrail and nailed him with a big chop. Ciampa suplexed Silva on the outside and Corino said you can’t win matches on the outside. Ciampa rolled Silva into the ring and covered him for a 2 count.

Ciampa pounded on Silva’s chest and paused to glare at the crowd. Ciampa grabbed a chinlock. Silva got to his feet and tried to fight out, but Ciampa nailed him with a knee to the gut. Silva hit a kick to the back of Ciampa’s head and went for a rollup, but Ciampa slipped away and nailed him with a dropkick to the knees off his back. That was impressive. Ciampa followed up with a kick to Silva’s head and a knee drop. Silva ducked a charge in the corner and nailed Ciampa with a clothesline for a 2 count. Silva missed a springboard and Ciampa caught him with a neckbreaker. Ciampa dragged Silva to the corner and nailed him with a running knee strike. Ciampa hit several running knee strikes in the corner. Ciampa then held up the Embassy sign and hit project Ciampa for the pin.

Winner: Tomasso Ciampa

3 - - ANX (Kenny King & Rhett Titus) vs. The Briscoes (Jay & Mark Briscoe) ROH World Tag Team Titles #1 Contender match

Both teams quickly brawled to the outside. At least the intensity picked up once Titus and King were done dancing and posing for the fans. Kelly said neither team could risk a DQ here as Titus and King isolated Jay in their corner. Titus nailed Jay with a kick and followed him to the corner and nailed him with a chop. Jay fired back with a kick and drove Titus head-first into the middle turnbuckle. Mark tagged in and went on the attack as Kelly ran down things the Briscoes like such as beer and chickens. King nailed Mark with a shot from behind and tagged into the match. King went to work on Jay and nailed him with a suplex and some punches before tagging Titus back into the match.

Titus nailed Mark with some punches. King tagged back in a mounted Mark before nailing him with some punches. ANX continued to tag in and out of the match while working over mark with several combination maneuvers. Titus & King hit a double team suplex on Mark. King choked Mark in the corner, but Mark cut him off and whipped him into a clothesline from Jay after a blind tag. Jay went on the attack and worked over King with a series of punches as they went to commercial.

The Briscoes nailed King with a double team shoulder tackle when they came back from the commercial. They showed a replay of King trying to fire back, but getting cut off. King fired back and nailed Mark with an atomic drop and a spinning kick to the back of the head. King struggled to tag in Titus, but Jay knocked him off the apron. Jay tagged into the match and put the boots to King. The fans cheered as Jay put the boots to King. McGuinness said Titus is so good in the bedroom that when he’s finished the neighbors light a cigarette. Mark raked away at King’s face before cinching in a chinlock. King got a back slide on Mark for a one count, but Mark went right back on the attack. The Briscoe hit a tandem ace crusher on King, but Titus broke up the pin. King countered a Jay-driller and backdropped Jay. King tagged in Titus, who ran wild on the Briscoes. Kelly hyped some upcoming live events as Titus sent Mark to the floor. ANX hit a combination of moves on Jay in the corner, but Mark broke up the pin at the last second.

The fans chanted for the Briscoes as Titus and King had Jay isolated in the ring. Jay countered King and Mark held onto Titus. Jay hit a big spinebuster on King. He then went after Titus on the top turnbuckle, but Titus dropped him face-first onto the top turnbuckle. Mark ran into the ring and nailed Titus with a running dropkick. He put Titus on the top rope and nailed him with a springboard ace crusher as the fans applauded. King then caught Mark with a springboard blockbuster. Jay ran into the ring and hit a big DDT and all four men were down as the fans chanted “Man up.” Titus went after Mark, but Jay ran in broke it up. Mark was on King’s shoulders, so Jay clotheslined Mark into a rollup for the win.

Winners: The Briscoes to earn a ROH World Title shot at “Final Battle 2011.”
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 02 2011, 01:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 10-31-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_54725.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

Pre-taped segment with The Rock agreeing to be Cena's partner at Survivor Series.

1 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. C.M. PUNK -- non-title match -- if Punk wins, he faces Del Rio at Survivor Series

Cole played up the idea of Henry being in a weakened state due to the ring collapse eight days ago. Lawler said he doesn't think Punk has a chance against the mammoth Henry. Punk scored with early offense before delivering a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop. Punk made a cover, but Henry kicked out. Del Rio and Ricardo Rodriguez then made their way to ringside as Punk rolled to the floor. Ricardo started hitting Henry, but the ref didn't do anything. Ricardo continued to hit Henry with his shoe, so the ref DQ'ed Punk, giving Henry the win.

Post-match: Punk assaulted Ricardo before throwing him into the ring to eat a World's Strongest Slam from Henry. Henry demanded his title belt as Punk seethed on the outside. Too much happening at once for the director to keep up with. Punk then chased Del Rio to the back as Henry's music played. Henry stood over Ricardo, then stepped over him.

WINNER: Henry via DQ at 2:47. Apparently there will be follow-up after WWE slotted this in the opening segment.

Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy comes out. So does Vickie, Swagger and Dolph...then Santino. Need I say more?

2 -- DIVAS HALLOWEEN COSTUME BATTLE ROYAL -- #1 contender match to Divas Title

Back from break, a variety of costumed-Divas were in the ring for the next match. Divas champ Beth Phoenix was ringside on commentary for the match to determine the next challenger to her title. The Final Four was Kelly, Eve, Natalya, and Alicia Fox. Fox was out, then Kelly, then Eve eliminated Natalya to win and earn another title shot. Post-match: Beth & Natalya had a stare down with the faces to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Eve at 2:45.

3 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. IC champion CODY RHODES & WADE BARRETT -- non-title match

The heels isolated Kingston early on after slingshotting him across the top rope to block a springboard maneuver. A "Cody sucks" chant didn't affect Rhodes, who continued to work on Kingston. Kingston then catapulted Rhodes into the corner and tagged in Bourne, who dropped Barrett with a DDT after countering Wasteland. The action broke down and Kingston found himself on the floor. Barrett then blocked Bourne's top-rope finisher and hit Wasteland for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Barrett & Rhodes at 5:28. Fine for the straight week of Raw focus on Barrett trying to rebuild his career. It didn't help the tag champs, though, when they need some quality wins on Raw.

4 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. BIG SHOW -- non-title match

Big Show dominated early on as Del Rio tried to find some offense, but to no avail. Del Rio then tried a sleeperhold while wrapping his body around Show's back. Del Rio managed to get Show down to one knee, prompting a "Big Show" chant from the crowd. Long sleeperhold put Show down to both knees. Show reset his base, though, and flung Del Rio off his back after reaching his feet. Show coughed up a lung as he recovered. Then, on the floor, Big Show and Del Rio fought as the ref administered a ten-count.

Cole reset the show from this year's WrestleMania host city as the fight continued ringside. Show then missed with a splash near the guardrail and Del Rio followed with a step-up enziguiri. Show was in jeopardy of being counted out as the announcers continued to talk about other items on the show. The two men made it back into the ring, where Del Rio landed successive kicks to the face and upper body. The match slowed down again before Show palm-thrusted Del Rio over the top rope to the floor. They cut to break after nine minutes of uninterrupted action.

Back from break at 11:50, Del Rio was back in control of the action in the ring. Del Rio absorbed an attempted comeback, then planted Show with a DDT. A subsequent cover led to Del Rio being flung clear across the ring to the outside. Back in the ring, Del Rio came running at Show, who KO Punched Del Rio in the face to completely change momentum. Show then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Big Show at 13:50. Long enough to make up for the short notice on a big match-up given away on TV. The quality was hit or miss throughout, but told a decent story of two men struggling to secure a win. (**)

Post-match: Punk's music played and Punk crossed paths with Show on the way to the ring. Punk surveyed a KO'ed Del Rio in the ring, then grabbed a mic ringside. In the ring, Punk sat down next to Del Rio and threw water in his face to wake him up. Punk said what's about to happen is he's going to ask him a question. Before that, he's going to twist Del Rio into a vice with the Anaconda Vice. Punk said he won't let go until Del Rio gives him the match at Survivor Series. Punk locked in the hold and Del Rio blurted out, "You have your match." Punk then dropped the hold and declared, "He said yes." Apparently Punk wasn't live on the arena mic, so Punk re-told the audience that Del Rio said yes. Cole claimed Del Rio was coerced and didn't voluntarily give him the match. Lawler said what goes around, comes around.

5 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. SANTINO

Cole declared that Swagger is going to wipe the mat with Santino, who had a laugh in Swagger's face before Swagger decked him with a clothesline. Cole mixed in his brand of "humor" at Jim Ross's expense building toward their "challenge" later. Suddenly, Beaker emerged ringside and handed Santino the magic formula. Santino tried to avoid choking on it before spitting it in Swagger's face on accident. Santino then made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Santino at 2:34.

6 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER -- non-title match

Basic back-and-forth with each man controlling the action for a few moments. Ziggler then found himself on the floor and Vickie, frustrated, shouted at Ryder as they cut to break.

Back from break, the two men traded control before Vickie tried to get involved by grabbing Ryder's foot. Ziggler tried ot capitalize with the Zig-Zag, but Ryder grabbed the top rope to block. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder for the pin and the win, drawing Vickie's ire again. Cole heeled on Ryder that only on Halloween could Ryder knock off Ziggler. They went to a replay of how Ryder secured the win before a slow-mo shot of Vickie screaming capped things off.

WINNER: Ryder in 10:00. Solid TV match. It looks like another title shot for Ryder is in the future.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ

Miz started off in control as the crowd engaged in dueling chants for and against Cena. Meanwhile, Lawler repeated that Nash will be on Raw next week. Miz settled into a reverse chinlock as the crowd transitioned to dueling chants of "Let's go Cena / C-M-Punk." Cena then made his comeback and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Miz countered the AA with a legsweep, though, for a two count. Miz then hit the Reality Check for a two count as Cole continued to rant against Ross. Cena mounted a comeback with a hard clothesline before the action moved to the top-rope. Miz teased a superplex, but Cena blocked and headbutted Miz to the mat. Cena then delivered a guillotine leg smash and made a cover for a two count. Cena didn't capitalize, though, allowing Miz to hit a DDT for a nearfall of his own.

The action moved to the floor, where Cena threw Miz into the guardrail. Suddenly, a man in a Scream Halloween costume choked Cena from behind on the front row. Cena fought him off, then the action moved back into the ring. Cena fought off Miz, then slapped on the STF. Miz tapped out, giving Cena the win. Post-match: Scream re-entered the ring and Cena gave him the AA center-ring. Cena removed the mask to reveal R-Truth, which drew zero reaction since the crowd couldn't see who it was. Cena then put on the Scream mask and posed in front of R-Truth, then for the crowd as Cole plugged Rock & Cena at Survivor Series to close the show 11 minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNER: Cena at 8:42. This reinforced the idea that Miz & Truth are essentially two broomsticks opposite Cena & Rock at Survivor Series - any main-event credibility/juice/momentum Miz and Truth had going into Raw was wiped out here. WWE will probably have Miz and Truth beat down Cena at some point over the next two weeks to put Cena in jeopardy, but the entire selling point for Survivor Series is Cena and Rock together in the same ring to see what happens.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 05 2011, 02:10 pm
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 11-2-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54798.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - THE USOS vs. TYSON KIDD & JOHNNY CURTIS - Tag match

Jimmy Uso starts the match by taking down Tyson Kidd. Regal says that when he was GM, stuff like Curtis not getting a shot would not have happened. Some back-and-forth between Kidd and Jimmy, and Jey tags in. Double-team gets a two count. This is a dead audience. Jimmy and Jey tag back and forth. Curtis finally tags in and goes to work on Jimmy. Both announcers have now made "chip-on-the-shoulder" comments regarding Curtis, recalling his lame vignettes on Smackdown. Kidd tags in but gets tossed onto the turnbuckle. Jey tags in and goes to work, but Curtis distracts him letting Kidd knock him off the turnbuckle to the floor.

Curtis has Jimmy in a leg bar and is screaming "I won this show!" which is funny. Kidd tags in and applies a leg lock of sorts that looks vicious. Curtis tags in and hits an over-the-rope leg drop, then goes back to working the leg. Regal with a neat insight, "you never get used to the pain but you get used to the situation" regarding escaping holds. Regal begs Korpela to talk about the people in the ring, not to talk up his credentials. Regal is so refreshingly humble on announcing duties. Kidd tags in, but Jimmy kicks him away when he tries the Sharpshooter.

Kidd and Jimmy both tag out. Jey knocks Curtis silly and clears Kidd from the apron. He fires up and hits the stinkface, but Kidd break sup the pin. Kidd keeps Jey outside the ring, but when he tries to jump on both of them from the apron, they catch him and toss him onto the barricade. With Kidd out of the picture, Jey tries to reenter but Curtis catches him. Curtis tries a suplex, but Jey counters and puts Curtis into a fireman's carry. He backs into his corner and Jimmy tags in, Jey does a Samoan Drop and Jimmy nails the Superfly Splash from across the ring for the win. Beautiful ending sequence.

WINNERS: The Usos in 10:00. Good match, with no weak spots. The crowd even got involved, despite having no clue what NXT was about.

2 - KAITLYN vs. TAMINA

Tamina with a quick headlock and takedown, but Kaitlyn reverses into a scissor hold. Tamina fights out and they go back and forth with blocks. Kaitlyn back to a scissor hold and uses it to get a one count a number of times. They reset and Kaitlyn hits a big suplex, but Tamina catches her charge with a boot and does a series of knee and elbow drops. Tamina with some more strong offense and two counts. Tamina slows it down with a rear chinlock and the crowd rallies behind Kaitlyn.

Kaitlyn eventually ends up on offense, with some elbows to the seated Tamina, but Tamina chops her to the ground. Tamina with a generic looking hold and Kaitlyn arm drags out. Tamina fights the hold and gets out. Kaitlyn whiffs a dropkick, but when Tamina charges, Kaitlyn catches her arm, and does some sort of move which I supposed is a finisher, but it gets the win. It was like an RKO grasping the arm near the shoulder instead of the head.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 7:00. Interesting to see so much chain wrestling in a women's match. Kaitlyn and Tamina both looked good to go, and even the dead audience got a bit involved near the end. Kaitlyn's come a long way in the ring, and Tamina seems to be improving, too.

3 - PERCY WATSON & TITUS O'NEIL & A.J. vs. JTG & DERRICK BATEMAN & MAXINE - Mixed Tag match

Maxine and A.J. start and Maxine dominates quickly with her power. Maxine's ring style is like a cross between Sheamus and Batista, which makes her quite unique for a Diva. A.J. turns it around with a boot to Maxine when she charges, a top rope arm drag, and a dropkick. Maxine tries to get back up but A.J. drops her with a spinning heel kick. Maxine tags in JTG, and Percy Watson comes in. JTG runs the ropes and Watson throws him over his head which gets one. Titus tags in and they double team. Percy tags back in, but JTG slides under and tags in Bateman. Watson with a big arm drag and a dropkick but the cover doesn't even get one. Regal continues to criticize Watson for showing off instead of making covers.

Watson stays in control, but Maxine distracts him, letting Bateman get a dropkick for two. Bateman puts boots to Percy in the corner. Bateman tags Watson to the heel corner and they do the heel teaming routine. O'Neil gets the hot tag and does his typical routine on the tag. Bateman counters the shoulder tackles with a sweet dropkick, but Percy breaks up the pin. JTG comes in and Percy clears them both out. A.J. then clears Maxine, which makes Bateman get distracted, and he walks right into the "Clash of the Titus" sit out slam.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil, Percy Watson, and A.J. in 8:00. This is probably the best match I've seen with the combination of Titus, Watson, JTG, and Bateman. No one had too much ring time, and no one dominated long enough for it to get stale.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 05 2011, 02:14 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 11-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_54828.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BROOKE TESSMACHER & TARA ("TNT") vs. GAIL KIM & MADISON RAYNE -- TNA Tag Team Title Match

Tenay called Karen Jarrett a biased leader of the Knockouts Division. Taz, ridiculously, took exception to Tenay's self-evident statement of fact. Kim and Rayne were accompanied by Karen and Traci Brooks. Tara and Tessmacher made a big production of taking off their cut t-shirts to reveal their red, white, and blue tops. Tenay kept hyping that "Ronnie from MTV's Jersey Shore" would be on the show later. MTV and Spike TV are under the same Viacom corporate umbrella. When Tara had Rayne down for a possible pin, Karen distracted the ref. Gail Kim then entered illegally and gave Tara her dropdown boot to the face, then put a groggy Rayne on top of Tara. The ref turned and counted the pin. Karen openly celebrated with the heel duo afterward. Traci didn't look as pleased. Tenay asked Taz if he agrees Karen is biased now. "She might be biased, a little bit," Taz conceded.

WINNERS: Kim & Rayne in 5:00 to capture the titles.

2 -- AUSTIN ARIES vs. JESSE SORRENSON

Taz said Aries walked around like he's God's gift to Earth. Kid Kash walked up to Tenay and Taz at the start of the match. He called Sorrensen a disrespectful little boy who doesn't belong in his dressing room. He said he's a legend in this sport and when he walks through the dressing room, he expects Sorrensen to drop his bag and shake his hand. Sorrensen slingshot himself over the top rope at Aries, but Aries moved. Aries then did a suicide dive through the ropes, ramming Sorrensen hard into the ringside barrier. Kash continued ranting about demanding respect and learning that the fans and the other wrestlers can't be trusted. "Kick his face in!" shouted Kash. "Beat his ***!" Aries set up his brainbuster suplex, but as Aries looked over at Kash, Sorrensen surprised him with a roll-up for the win.

WINNER: Sorrensen in 5:00.

3 -- JEFF JARRETT & BULLY RAY vs. MR. ANDERSON & JEFF HARDY

Anderson is growing out his hair and it's darker than it used to be. Tenay said Jarrett takes it personal that Hardy was welcomed back. He said he was instrumental in bringing him to TNA in the first place so he should be able to block his return. Tenay called it a big-time high-profile tag team match-up. Jeff did the Jarrett strut early in the match. They plugged Dixie Carter's Twitter and Facebook pages. At 3:00 Ray and Anderson both tagged in. Ray bumped a few times for Anderson during a flurry of Anderson offense. Jarrett broke up an Anderson pin attempt. Hardy launched off of Anderson's back and crashed into Jarrett in the corner. With both heels down, Hardy and Anderson climbed to the top rope on opposite corners. Scott Steiner interfered and the ref called for the bell.

WINNERS: Anderson & Hardy in 4:00 via DQ.

-Afterward, Steiner hit Hardy across the back with a chair. Bully Ray brought his chain into the ring and he clotheslined Hardy with it. Ray gave Anderson the Bubba Bomb as Jarrett gave Hardy the Stroke. The three Immortal heels stood in the ring with their arms raised.

4 -- JAMES STORM vs. BOBBY ROODE -- TNA Impact Wrestling Heavyweight Title Match

After a few minutes of moves and counter-moves, they cut to a break.

After the break they continued to battle. Both men were down for an eight count at 8:00, then fought from their knees back to their feet, exchanging punches. At 11:00 Roode hit a spinebuster for a near fall. Both men were nearly counted out at 12:00. Roode countered a Storm DDT attempt into a crossface submission attempt. Storm reached the bottom rope to force a break. Storm came back with a top rope elbow for a two count. Storm set up the superkick. Roode stood, but caught Storm's leg, kicked him in the gut, and set up a fisherman's suplex. Storm blocked it. Roode whipped Storm into the corner and he almost hit the ref. Roode charged, but Storm moved. Storm then dropped Roode onto his knees. Roode tumbled to the floor where the ref was clutching his knee from a fall. Roode looked at the beer bottle sitting on the ringside steps and assessed the situation. Roode reached over and picked up the beer bottle. "Wait a minute," said Taz. Roode then KO'd Storm with the beer bottle. Storm fell back knocked out. The ref returned to the ring and counted the pin. The boo machine really kicked in here. Tenay said in disgust, "Are you kidding me?" Taz said he was shocked. Roode stood over Storm and spit on him a few times, then stood on his chest. "That's how you treat a brother? Bull(bleep)!" said Tenay as the show ended.

WINNER: Roode in 16:00 via DQ. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 05 2011, 02:21 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-4-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_54868.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES – STREET FIGHT

I guess Greenville isn’t good enough to have the city identified in the name of the Street Fight. The announcers were shown on camera during Orton’s entrance, and it seemed right off the bat like Booker T. was being paid by the word. Baggers again trailed Rhodes on his way to the ring.

Cole gave the rules of a Street Fight once the bell rang to start the match. After a long lock-up, Rhodes kicked Orton in the knee. Headlock take-over by Orton. The match went outside the ring and Orton stared down a bagger. That distraction allowed Rhodes to whip Orton into the ring steps. Orton was then whipped into the side of the ring. Snap-mare, then a knee-drop at ringside. Orton used the ring itself to his advantage, then sent Rhodes head-first into the steps twice. Orton clotheslined Rhodes into the crowd, then went after him. Hey, someone has a drawing of Bender on their sign! Orton continued the assault on Rhodes throughout the crowd. They found their way back to ringside, where Rhodes tossed his bagger into Orton. Orton gave him a back body-drop, and decked Rhodes too. Rhodes went to the other side of the ring and fed his other bagger to Orton. RKO for that guy. Rhodes backed up the aisle, unsure of what to do next, as Orton smiled at him from the ring. They went to break at 5:16.

Back at 8:53 of the match, with Orton continuing the beating on the entrance ramp. At the top of the ramp, Rhodes turned the tide, smashing Orton’s face into the steel. Rhodes attempted to suplex Orton off the stage, but Orton reversed it and suplexed Rhodes onto the grate. Orton rolled off the stage and Rhodes crawled down the ramp. Orton grabbed Rhodes and propped him against the railing, pounding away on the masked face of his foe. They made their way back to the squared circle, and Orton superplexed Rhodes back into the ring. It got a two-count at 11:55. Somehow, Rhodes dropkicked Orton once they got back to their feet. Orton was tossed out of the ring, but Orton reversed a whip and Rhodes went into the timekeeper’s area. Rhodes bashed Orton with his mask. His elbow was bleeding as well. They went to break again at 13:10.

The show returned at 17:06, with the fight having moved to the commentator’s table. Rhodes punched Orton a few times in the forehead, then sent him back into the ring. Front suplex, then a stomp to the face. Rhodes registered a near-fall at 18:30. The announcers sold how much of a beating Orton had taken over the last few minutes. Orton desperately kicked Rhodes in the face as he tried to crawl away from Rhodes, a movement the announcers made a big deal about. Figure-four leg-lock by Rhodes, right in the middle of the ring. Rhodes again used the mask, hitting Orton in the face while in the move. He tried for it a third time, but Orton kicked Rhodes in the gut and nailed him with the mask. Orton then set up for the punt, shaking off all the punishment he had just taken over the last several minutes. He did his comeback with no signs of said beating. Rhodes dodged an RKO and hit a springboard kick in the face of Orton for two. Cross-Rhodes was countered into a back-drop. Rhodes countered the DDT try and the two traded right hands outside the ring. Orton dropped Rhodes gut-first over the barricade, and Orton DDT’d Rhodes from that position onto the ringside mat. Orton rolled Rhodes into the ring and hit the RKO for the win.

WINNER: Orton, at 23:33. So we had to pay to see an uneventful one-on-one match at the last PPV, but got to see the more intense, spot-heavy Street Fight for free?

2 – TED DIBIASE vs. TYSON KIDD

This match certainly came out of nowhere. Mathews talked about the “DiBiase Posse,” wherein DiBiase gets together with fans to tailgate before WWE live events. DiBiase dropkicked Kidd, but Kidd quickly took back over on offense. Kick to the head from the apron by Kidd, then a springboard elbowdrop, but it missed. DiBiase came back with some offense as the announcers compared the number of Twitter followers they have. Dear Lord. Kidd countered Dream Street, but DiBiase rolled through with him and hit the move for the win.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 2:07. Didn’t have a good flow to it and was a bit choppy; that said, a nice showcase for DiBiase at least, and I always welcome Kidd getting TV time.

3 – ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

No Beth Phoenix to accompany Nattie. Fox stole the one-legged dropkick from Eve…unless she just botched a regular dropkick. Natalya stomped on Fox’s feet and lower legs, then tossed her to the mat. Nattie told Fox she stuck her nose where it doesn’t belong. Boston Crab applied by Natalya, and Mathews had to correct Cole that it wasn’t the Sharpshooter. Natalya grabbed Fox by the boot, but Fox countered with an enziguiri. She followed that up with a flip leg-drop for the win.

WINNER: Fox, at 1:29. Not a whole lot to it. I know women’s match are usually short, but having Natalya lose this quickly doesn’t speak well for her.

4 – SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT

Sheamus pounded on Barrett from corner-to-corner, then slammed him. Cole complained that no one from the WWE medical staff came down to check on Christian. Sheamus ran Barrett over, then gave him forearms to the chest. It was all Sheamus in the opening minute-and-a-half. Sheamus dove over the top and shoulderblocked Barrett down for a two-count. Barrett fired back with a running forearm. Barrett with knees to the face of Sheamus, who was caught up in the ropes. Barrett delivered a running kick to the head of Sheamus, sending the Celtic Warrior to ringside. They went to break 2:30 into the match.

The show returned at 5:30 of the contest. Sheamus broke out of a submission move, but missed the Brogue Kick. Barrett kicked Sheamus in the mid-section as Christian continued to convalesce at ringside. That must’ve been some chokeslam. Barrett stretched the arms of Sheamus as the crowd lightly chanted for him. Knee-lift, followed by a big boot from Barrett. Hard whip into the turnbuckle by Barrett, who then connected on a middle rope elbowdrop, but only for a one-count. Rear chin-lock by Barrett. Sheamus appeared to go for the High Cross, but Barrett gave him a back-drop instead. Kick to the skull by Barrett, again just a one-count. Sheamus began a comeback at 9:42. Powerslam, then an attempt at his finisher. Christian jumped on the apron to distract Sheamus, so Barrett took advantage and rolled him up for the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 10:30. This makes me feel a little better about my comments about Barrett in my weekly chat with James Caldwell right here on pwtorch.com.

5 – SIN CARA vs. EPICO

No entrance for Epico. Cara started off hot, but Epico landed a few back suplexes. Epico, without a mask, is Primo’s cousin Orlando Colon, from developmental. He looks exactly like Primo. Epico with a version of the Gory special, but Cara came back with his springboard wrist-lock take-down. Kick to the head by Cara. He went to the top rope, perhaps for the finish, but Hunico came out and pushed Cara off the top rope for a disqualification.

WINNER: Cara, via DQ, at 2:16. This was a unique way to introduce Epico, as wrestlers don’t generally show up without hype of some sort (or without an entrance).

Hunico and Epico continued their assault on Cara, with Hunico nailing Cara with a few right hands. Epico tossed Cara up to Hunico, who powerbombed Cara.

6 – MARK HENRY vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Big Show, as promised, came to the ring with Bryan. Henry easily flipped Bryan off his back to start. Bryan tried to kick at the legs of Henry, but Henry tossed him in the air. Bryan came down in a front face-lock submission. Henry slammed him into the buckle, then tossed Bryan to ringside. Show shouted words of encouragement to Bryan. As Bryan re-entered the ring, Henry kicked him, then followed that up with a headbutt. Bryan was sent to ringside again, and Henry simply took Bryan’s head and shoved it against the ring post. Big Show ran Henry off of Bryan. Back in the ring went Bryan and Henry. Booker said Bryan should just “take his medicine like a man” and not have Big Show at his side. Cole called Booker “Michelle Bachmann” for flip-flopping on the issue. Henry applied a neck vice and Bryan kicked his way out of it. Dropkick to the knee sent Henry to one knee. Bryan continued with kicks to the chest and one to the head. That got a two-count at 4:11, and the crowd seemed into it. Henry created some separation with a headbutt. Bryan leapt from the top and again caught Henry in that front face-lock. Down to one knee went Henry. Henry suplexed Bryan off. Henry got an angry look in his eyes and hammered away at Bryan in the corner. Two big splashes in that same corner. After a third splash, Big Show slid into the ring and knocked Henry out with his knockout punch.

WINNER: Henry, via DQ, at 6:24.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 09 2011, 04:51 am
ROH TV Results: 11-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_54923.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - MICHAEL ELGIN (w/Truth Martini) vs. SHILOH JONES

Elgin drove Jones into the corner and beat him to a pulp. The crowd chanted for Jones, who tried to fire back, but he ended up taking a big slam. Kelly ran down ROH’s live event dates as Elgin hit a big shoulder tackle off the second turnbuckle. Jones tried to fire back again on Elgin, but got tossed into the corner. Elgin ate a boot, but managed to counter Jones moments later and hit a big powerslam. Elgin covered Jones with one finger and he managed to kick out. Kelly ran down the lineup for the rest of the show. Jones went for a sunset flip and Elgin tried to sit down on him, but Jones got out of the way. Jones hit a forearm off the top for a 2 count. Elgin fired back with a spinning back fist. Elgin followed up with a buckle bomb and a twisting powerbomb for the pin.

Winner: Michael Elgin –This was a good showcase of Elgin’s power in the ring. The crowd was behind OVW talent Shiloh Jones, so it created a good atmosphere for the squash. The announcers focused more on previewing live events and what was coming up on the show and didn’t spotlight Elgin on commentary like they should have here.

2 - - ROH WORLD TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. CEDRIC ALEXANDER & CAPRICE COLEMAN – Proving Ground match

There was a terrible glare from the lights during a floor shot as Benjamin took down Coleman. Both men exchanged holds on the mat. Benjamin got an arm triangle, but Coleman got the ropes. The announcers talked about Coleman being an ordained minister. Coleman countered a slam and exchanged counters with Benjamin and they came to a stalemate as the crowd applauded. Haas tagged in and slammed Coleman. Haas went to work on Coleman’s arm on the mat and the crowd applauded. Coleman fired back with some kicks from the mat and tagged in Alexander. Alexander nailed Haas with a running knee in the corner. Benjamin blind-tagged himself into the match and caught Alexander with a superkick from behind. Benjamin went to work on Alexander’s leg. He tagged in Haas who continued to work over Alexander’s leg. Kelly talked about Alexander’s amateur wrestling background. Haas went to the second rope and snapped Alexander’s leg down to the mat.

They came back from break with no commercial aired. Highlights aired of some action during the break with Alexander trying to fire back on Benjamin, but he got cut off with a knee to the chest. Back to live action, Benjamin was still working over Alexander on the mat. Kelly said Alexander & Coleman had proven they are a cohesive team. McGuinness said they hadn’t proven much to him. Haas tagged in and locked in a leg submission on Alexander. Alexander struggled, but got the ropes. Kelly ran down some upcoming live events. Alexander tried to fire back, but Haas cut him off. Alexander fired back again with a tornado DDT off the second rope and both men were down.

The crowd clapped as both men struggled to get to their feet. Both men tagged out. Coleman took down Benjamin with a leaping leg drop for a 2 count. Kelly said there were less than four minutes left in the time limit as Coleman caught Benjamin with a hurricanrana off the turnbuckles. The action broke down with Coleman and Alexander working over Benjamin, but they missed the camera shot of the double team maneuver. Haas dragged Alexander to the outside. He came back into the ring and gave Coleman a suplex. Haas & Benjamin isolated Alexander and caught him with the leap of faith. They then caught Coleman with wrestling’s greatest finisher for the win.

Winners: Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin – This was a solid main event. Alexander & Coleman looked good in their television debut, but didn’t do a lot to stand out to new fans seeing them for the first time. The match was competitive at times, but you never got the sense Haas & Benjamin were in any danger.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 09 2011, 04:52 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-7-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_54941.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- non-title match

A black-and-white theme to this match, as Vickie was in a white shirt and black tie, Ziggler was in black wrestling shorts, Morrison was in black and white/silver pants, and the referee was in zebra stripes. Cole continued to rip Ryder's petition while trying to incorporate some sports analogies that failed, as pointed out by Lawler. The two men in the ring went back and forth as the crowd settled into their seats before Cole fed to a break at 3:00.

Back on Raw, Ziggler was working over Morrison as Cole suggested Morrison's losing streak was about to continue. The announcers then bickered over whether Morrison was dominated during the break or not. Ziggler took his time wearing down Morrison before taunting him with verbal and right hand jabs. Morrison had enough and snapped on Ziggler before almost getting himself DQ'ed. Ziggler capitalized with a back elbow smash for a two count to resume control. The audience started a dueling chant of "Let's go Ziggler / Let's go Morrison." Lawler would normally call this bizarro world, but said he likes a crowd split right down the middle.

Vickie sold concern ringside as Morrison finally scored with some offense and scored a nearfall following a neckbreaker. Morrison then wanted Starship Pain, but Ziggler moved and Morrison landed on his feet. The two men traded holds before Ziggler hit a guillotine leg drop for a two count. Morrison then came back with a springboard kick strike, but Vickie had the ref distracted on a pin attempt. Suddenly, Morrison rolled up Ziggler from behind and scored a surprise three count to end the streak.

WINNER: Morrison at 13:03. Solid singles match. The crowd wasn't as hot for the nearfalls as you would expect, but WWE has beaten the life out of Morrison's character for so many weeks that the audience doesn't have reason to invest in Morrison. (**)

2 -- MASON RYAN vs. JTG

Mason toyed with JTG early on as Cole noted Ryan has a degree in construction management from Cardiff U. The crowd was quiet as Ryan went through his power routine dismantling JTG. Ryan put JTG on his shoulders for a submission before going back to the power offense. Ryan screamed, then hoisted JTG into the air for a powerslam. Ryan followed with a full nelson, tossed him around like the Masterlock, and turned it into a full nelson slam for the pin and the win. Lawler called him a cartoon character or a superhero as they replayed the finish.

WINNER: Ryan at 2:23.

3 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

The bell sounded as Lawler noted tonight's Raw could be Cole's last full episode if he loses the MCC to Ross next week. Del Rio smashed Kingston to the outside early on before rolling Kingston back into the ring to inflict more punishment. Kingston landed some offense before Del Rio aggressively threw him shoulder-first into the ringpost. Del Rio followed with the cross arm-breaker and Kingston was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 2:09. Nice, decisive win for Del Rio, but odd to use Kingston in this spot. Of note, there was no mention of a suspended Evan Bourne or the state of the Tag Titles.

4 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. SANTINO

Cole went through Swagger's background, including playing college football at OU. Lawler followed with a Penn St. joke that it's a good thing Swagger didn't go to Penn St. because "all of those guys are going to end up at State Penn." Cole followed with more JR jokes to hype the MCC next week. Lawler followed with a pig joke on Vickie. In the ring, Swagger and Santino went back and forth for a bit before Swagger's eye started twitching and he slapped on the anklelock. Santino tapped out, giving Swagger the win. Post-match, Swagger did his victory lap as Vickie applauded.

WINNER: Swagger via submission at 3:02. This one had the trifecta of awful commentary. Tasteless attempt at a Penn St. joke with alleged child abuse involved affecting real lives, a fat joke on Vickie, and more J.R. bullying.

5 -- JOHN CENA & ZACK RYDER vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH

Cena and Truth started things off, but Truth decided to duck out of the ring and tag in Miz. Cena delivered offense on Miz as the crowd chanted, "We want Ryder." Cena acknowledged the chant as Truth re-entered. Cena then slapped Truth over the ear and the heels regrouped on the outside. No Ryder as Cena readied to square off against Truth again. Instead, Cena tagged in Ryder and gave him a pat on the shoulder. Ryder entered the ring and delivered a pancake before throwing Truth clear over the top rope to the floor. Truth clutched the back of his head as they cut to break with the faces in control.

Back on Raw, Miz and Truth were working over Cena as they went to several replays of Truth smashing the back of his head on the floor prior to break. Lawler called it a concussion causer. Yet, not even a kayfabe medical check of Truth to see if he could continue to send a message that concussions are a serious issue. The heels continued to work over Cena as Ryder waited for a hot tag on the ring apron. Meanwhile, the crowd picked up a "Let's go Cena / Cena sucks" chant.

Cena made the hot tag to Ryder at the top of the hour. Suddenly, all four men were in the ring. Cena put on Ryder's sunglasses, did the fist pump, and did a simultaneous Broski Boot. Ryder then wanted the Rough Ryder on Miz, but Truth popped him in the head from the ring apron. The heels then isolated Ryder as Lawler played up the idea of seeing a better tag match at Survivor Series with The Rock in Ryder's place. Another dueling chant as Cena waited for a tag on the ring apron and the announcers hyped Rock and Cena together in the same ring at Survivor Series. When it's delusional lead announcer Cole trying to create the imagery for that moment in The Garden, you know the PPV hype is in trouble.

Ryder made the tag to Cena at 16:30 and Miz tagged in for Truth. Cena delivered his signature offense on both men before setting up for a double You Can't See Me. Cena opted to bring in Ryder to help him with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Both men bounced off the ropes and delivered the Shuffle. Ryder then dumped Truth to the outside. Back in the ring, Miz delivered a kick to Cena's head and covered Cena as Truth held down Cena's feet from the outside. Miz with the pin for the win. Cole wasn't able to seize the moment on commentary as Cena laughed to sell that he couldn't believe he was pinned by Miz. The heels retreated up the entrance ramp as Cena shouted toward the stage that they got their one victory, but they won't get two. That's how Raw concluded.

WINNERS: Miz & Truth at 17:18. Except for the heels winning, this came across like a house show main event from the in-ring storytelling to the action to the commentary. WWE tried to erase last week when Cena easily discarded Awesome Truth and re-establish some credibility for the heel duo here, but the uninspired commentary and Cole's inability to sell a big moment hurt the proceedings. Meanwhile, The Rock's first match in seven years at Survivor Series still hasn't been made to feel like a big deal, which puts WWE in a tough spot next week where they can't give away too much with Rock back on Raw TV, but have to create enough momentum to get people to spend $45 to see Rock at Survivor Series. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 19 2011, 10:55 am
I've been gone for quite a long time so those needing to be caught up since the last reported results here, you can go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #12,995 (direct link to thread) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?33173-offical-wwe-thread&p=3275374&viewfull=1#post3275374) and posts thereafter. Thank you.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 19 2011, 11:06 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-14-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_55160.shtml) Condensed mostly to in-ring results with my personal comments in italics.

Show starts with Michael Cole challenge against Jim Ross. Cole wins but then is laid out by CM Punk.

1 -- SIN CARA & WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. IC champion CODY RHODES & HUNICO

Sin Cara delivered fast-faced offense on Hunico early on before Cody and Kingston tagged in. The unmasked heels found themselves on the floor and the faces splashed them on the outside leading to break.

Back from break, Rhodes was in control of the action working on Sin Cara as Ross noted Cole is still receiving medical attention after having a run-in with C.M. Punk. A graphic flashed on the screen that "Mick Foley" is trending right now on Twitter. The heels began taking turns wearing down Sin Cara as the announcers discussed Rhodes losing his mask. Kingston took a hot tag at 7:30 and scared Rhodes with a somersault entrance. The action broke down moments later as bodies started flying. In the ring, Rhodes dropped Kingston with Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win. Ross wondered if that gives Team Barrett some momentum heading into Survivor Series.

WINNERS: Rhodes & Hunico at 8:22. Basic tag match emphasizing a new Cody Rhodes. Fine. (*1/4)

JR, who was announcing with Lawler, was replaced by Cole, who had his arm in a sling. That sucks!

2 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. MASON RYAN -- non-title match

Ryan dominated early on as the crowd sat on their hands. Ryan power-lifted Ziggler into the air before Vickie hopped on the ring apron to slap Ryan. It caused a DQ. Ziggler then bailed from the ring and retreated up the entrance ramp with Vickie. Suddenly, John Morrison charged the ringside area and threw Ziggler back into the ring. Ryan clutched Ziggler in the Masterlock before delivering a full nelson slam. Cue up Ryan's music again. Morrison noted to Vickie that he beat Ziggler last week.

WINNER: Ryan via DQ at 1:05.

Mick Foley greets John Cena with the infamous 'This is your Life' segment ala The Rock a few years back. The Rock ends up coming out and Rock Bottoms Foley.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Sheamus dominated early on, then clotheslined Swagger over the top rope to the floor. Since wrestling doesn't seem to matter on Raw, they cut to break 1:30 into the match. Why didn't they cut to break 1:30 into Foley's 20-minute segment with Cena?

Back from break at 4:30, Sheamus was pounding on Swagger's chest with repeated forearm smashes. Swagger took control of the match moments later as Vickie cheered on. Sheamus then came back with blows to the upper back followed by a bodyslam for a two count. Vickie celebrated the two count before Sheamus set up for the Celtic Cross. Swagger slipped out, though, and delivered a bodyslam. He followed with the anklelock, but Sheamus kicked Swagger away. Sheamus followed with the Irish Curse backbreaker and started pounding his chest. Sheamus then wound up and delivered the Brogue Kick for the pin and the win. Cue up screams from Vickie.

WINNER: Sheamus at 8:51. Solid win for Sheamus keeping him strong as he remains just below the World Title level on Smackdown.

4 -- NATALYA (w/Divas champion Beth Phoenix) vs. KELLY KELLY (w/Eve and Alicia Fox)

Back live, the Divas were already assembled in the ring. They cut to a video package of Kelly's Maxim shoot before the match started. Since Kelly was more interested in watching the video than wrestling, Natalya took early control. Less than a minute in, though, Kelly snuck in a quick pin to counter the Sharpshooter. This frustrated Natalya & Beth prior to Beth's title defense against Eve at Survivor Series.

WINNER: Kelly at 0:53.

5 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY & WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. BIG SHOW & C.M. PUNK

Show destroyed Del Rio early on as Cole reset the show. Punk then tagged in and tagged Del Rio with right hand strikes. Punk continued to attack Del Rio before snapping off a suplex for a two count. Back came Big Show, who assaulted Del Rio before Del Rio ran over to Henry for a tag. The crowd popped as Henry slowly entered the ring for a confrontation with Big Show. Lock-up. Stalemate. Lock-up again. Stalemate again. Show then ripped off his t-shirt. Lock-up again. This time, Show flung Henry across the ring. He tried to follow with a bodyslam, but Henry fell on top of Show for a two count.

Del Rio then tagged in and began to wear down Show, who was off his feet now. Show then fired back with a clothesline on Henry. Show warmed up for the KO Punch, but Henry ran over to Del Rio to tag him in before ducking out of the ring. Del Rio demanded an answer as Henry shouted that he tagged in Del Rio. They cut to break with Show waiting for someone to fight.

Back from break, many things had changed with Del Rio in the ring and Punk looking for a tag to Show, but Henry cut off Punk after tagging in. Cole then read a tweet from John Laurinaitis thanking Cole for "toughing it out" tonight on Raw. The heels began working over Punk as Cole continued to talk himself up. Punk then came to his feet and started trading blows with Del Rio. The action broke down moments later with all four men in the ring. Suddenly, Henry caught Del Rio in mid-air for the World's Strongest Slam. Show clotheslined Henry out of the ring, though, only to eat the ringpost. In the confusion, Del Rio rolled up a weakened Punk for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Cole called it a picture of Survivor Series when Del Rio pins Punk. Del Rio then grabbed Punk and slapped on the cross arm-breaker. Punk screamed in pain before Big Show made the save. Del Rio left the ring as Punk sold a left shoulder injury. Cole said Del Rio could be closing in on a successfully title defense on Sunday. This is where they need Punk to have a babyface promo later in the show vowing revenge on Sunday.

WINNERS: Del Rio & Henry at 12:07. Good action. They didn't give away too much of Henry-Show and kept the focus on Punk-Del Rio to continue trying to make Del Rio seem credible despite the past several weeks undercutting him as champion. (**)

Santino come out to plug Boston and recommit himself to becoming a champion. Kevin Nash's boot in his face ends all that.

6 -- WADE BARRETT (w/Swagger, Hunico, Ziggler, and Rhodes) vs. RANDY ORTON (w/Sheamus, Cara, Kingston, and Ryan)

The bell sounded back from break and Orton landed an early haymaker. Barrett came back with a Black Hole Slam for a two count, then followed with repeated right hand blows from the mount position. As Barrett slapped on a sleeperhold, Cole played serious lead announcer talking up the history of Survivor Series and past memorable PPV moments. Cole plugged that Rock would be on Raw in a matter of minutes. Orton made a comeback, including his elevated DDT, before teasing the RKO. Rhodes then hit the ring, though, to attack Orton for a DQ.

Post-match: A ten-man brawl broke out before bodies started flying to the outside. Hunico was the last heel standing to take an RKO from Orton. Next, Ryan press-slammed Hunico over the top rope into a pile of heels. The heels retreated on the outside as Lawler actually said he has a good feeling about Team Barrett.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 3:40. Basic set up for the Survivor Series match at the PPV. Five or six participants in the match have been presented as filler just to add bodies to the mix.

The last 20 minutes of the show was all about The Rock and his return at The Survivor Series. Miz and R-Truth interrupt...then Cena comes out. Guess what happened?!!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 19 2011, 11:07 am
WWE NXT Results: 11-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55222.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DERRICK BATEMAN vs. PERCY WATSON (w/Titus O'Neil)

O'Neil was on commentary for this encounter. Titus picked up a football discussion with William Regal, who seemed disinterested. Showtime dumped Bateman to the floor 90 seconds in before landing forearm blows to the neck. Back in the ring, Bateman returned the favor with a swinging neckbreaker. And pause for a randomly inserted WWE/Kmart commercial. Bateman took control of the match and began playing to the crowd in-between moves. That gave Showtime an opening to make his comeback, highlighted by a Showtime Splash. Moments later, Watson finished off Bateman with the Percy-cution for the pin and the win. After a replay of the finish, Titus gave a positive evaluation of Percy's performance in the opener.

WINNER: Watson at 4:23.

2 -- YOSHI TATSU vs. JTG (w/Tamina)

Back from the Rebound, Yoshi was already in the ring. No make-up for Yoshi, whose look continues to change. JTG was out next, flanked by Tamina in a business suit. The match started with a fast-paced back-and-forth, suggesting this would be a quick match. JTG then settled into a series of submission holds, leading the crowd to rally behind Yoshi. Yoshi ripped off a series of kick strikes before Tamina hopped on the ring apron to yell at Yoshi and the ref. It was enough of a distraction to allow JTG to plant Yoshi into the ringpost before rolling him up for the pin and the win.

WINNER: JTG at 4:06. Yoshi's stock has apparently dropped significantly. It sets up Yoshi for a revenge match on a future episode, but a loss to JTG, who WWE designated as an enhancement wrestler prior to joining forces with Tamina, isn't a good sign.

3 -- TITUS O'NEIL (w/Percy Watson) vs. TYLER REKS (w/Curt Hawkins)

Mathews and Regal noted Striker angrily put together this match for the show, which led to them wondering why Striker is so angry this week. The match started with a basic back-and-forth before Titus dumped Reks over the top rope to the floor. Titus was slow re-entering the ring, which gave Reks an opening. Hawkins then tried to get involved, but Percy blasted him with a right hand. The ref only saw Percival's involvement, so he got the boot from the ref, like the player retaliating in a football game getting a 15-yard penalty. But, Hawkins, the instigator, was also given the boot before they cut to break.

Back from break, Reks was in control of the situation in a strict one-on-one now. Titus eventually shook off Reks's attack and delivered a back elbow smash followed by right hand blows. Reks cut off Titus and went for a second-rope move, but Titus intercepted with a two-hand catch into his sky-high bomb finisher. Titus made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Titus at 7:21. Just hand Titus the season win and move on.

Post-match: Darren Young made his return from suspension for a post-match attack on Titus. Young then demanded a microphone and cut a promo in Titus's face that it's not about redemption, but retribution. Young looked different facially. Perhaps shorter hair. D-Young left the ring, leaving Titus to recover in the ring. They went to a replay of the main event finish and D-Young's post-match attack before back-and-forth camera shots of Young and Titus closed out the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 19 2011, 11:08 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 11-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_55268.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ROBBIE E. (w/Robbie T.) vs. DEVON -- TNA TV Title Match

This is an odd match-up. Devon went on early offense. Terry jumped onto the ring apron and distracted Devon. The Pope was at ringside mouthing off to Robbie E. They shoved each other. Devon jumped to the floor and threw Robbie back into the ring. Terry then nailed Pope from behind with a big double axe handle shot. Back in the ring Devon continued to beat on Robbie E. Then Eric Young came out to ringside and hit Terry in the back with a chair as he began to make a move toward Devon's sons at ringside. His sons leaped the railing to check on The Pope's condition. Devon one-arm slammed Robbie, but then turned to tell his kids to get back across the railing where it was safer. Robbie then schoolboyed Devon for the win. Terry chased Young and his chair to the back. Devon's sons kept checking on Pope, ignoring Devon pleas to get back to their seats.

WINNER: Robbie E. in 2:00 to retain the TV Title.

2 -- KID KASH & AUSTIN ARIES vs. JESSE SORENSEN & BRIAN KENDRICK

Tenay said it'll be interesting to see if Kash and Aries can work together after what happened at Turning Point. Sorensen's chest was badly beat up from the match on Sunday, with burst blood vessels clearly visible. Sorensen took it to Kash in the opening minute leading to an early near fall after a bodyblock off the second rope. The bottom of the screen said the Twitter Question of the Day is which match was your favorite at Turning Point. There was a vote for Hardy vs. Jarrett and the X Division Show "cuz all three men put on an amazing show." It didn't take long for Kash and Aries to argue. At 5:00 Kash and Sorensen were back against each other. Kash reached for a tag to Aries, but instead slapped him. Aries smiled and entered the ring, then tagged Kash back in, dropped to the floor, and said, "You wanna be a dick, go be a dick in there." Kash went for a top rope moonsault on Sorensen, but Sorensen moved. He then gave Kash a reverse neckbreaker for a three count.

WINNERS: Kendrick & Sorensen in 5:00.

3 -- 10 KNOCKOUTS GAUNTLET MATCH

FALL ONE: ROSITA VS. SKY: Taz said this is Sky's chance to get the no. 1 contender position back in the Knockouts Division. After Rayne trash-talked Sky, Sky instantly gave her a double-underhook DDT for a sudden pin. WINNER: Sky in ten seconds.

FALL TWO: MISS TESSMACHER: Sky with a running bulldog in 30 seconds.

FALL THREE: ANGELINA LOVE: Sky stomped on Love at the start, but Love made a quick comeback with a kick and a clothesline. Then she powerslammed Sky for a two count. Love then scored a pin with a yank on Sky's tights. WINNER: Love in 1:00.

FALL FOUR: MICKIE JAMES: Love attacked Mickie in the aisle with a kick. They cut to a break. The Mickie-Love battle continued after the break. Mickie finished Love with a reverse sidekick. WINNER: Mickie in 5:00.

FALL FIVE: SARITA: Sarita took early control, then backflipped and danced a little. As she showboated, Mickie countered with a roll-up for a near fall. Mickie eventually finished Sarita with a jumping DDT. WINNER: Mickie in 2:00.

FALL SIX: TARA: Tara went to work with some matwork on Mickie at the start, but Mickie reversed it. Tara hit a standing moonsault for a near fall a minute later. Mickie came back with another leaping DDT for the win in 3:00.

FALL SEVEN: WINTER: As Mickie was slow to get up and catch her breath, a fresh Winter entered. Tenay said the luck of the draw is factoring in huge. Winter went for two quick covers, then mounted and punched Mickie. Taz said Winter always tries to talk to him, but he always feels weird about it. He said he's a shy type. Mickie, out of nowhere, finished Winter with a reverse sidekick. WINNER: Mickie in 2:00.

FALL EIGHT: ODB: Taz said, "She's back!" Tenay said Karen did reinstate her recently. Taz said she's thicker and more massive than before. She's still able to kip up. There's a couple things that give her the momentum she needs when she's trying to gain momentum to land on her feet. She scored an early two count on Mickie. Mickie came right back with a Thesz Press for a clean win. WINNER: Mickie in 1:00.

FALL NINE: MADISON RAYNE: ODB gave Mickie her finisher after the match, which Taz said set the table for Rayne. Rayne strolled confidently to the ring as if she had all day. The ref checked on Mickie, who was face down on the mat. Rayne did the pageant wave to the crowd, but when Rayne finally entered the ring, Mickie surprised her with a roll up for the win. Tenay said Mickie now gets the title shot against Gail Kim.

WINNER: Mickie James in 16:00 to earn a TNA Knockouts Title match.

4 -- MEXICAN AMERICA (Hernandez & Anarquia w/Rosita, Sarita) vs. CRIMSON & MATT MORGAN -- TNA World Tag Team Title Match

At 4:00 Morgan overhead tossed Hernandez and then threw Anarquia into the corner and clotheslined him. Morgan followed up with a one arm slam for a two count, broken up by Hernandez. Hernandez attacked Morgan in the corner illegally, but Morgan fought back by clotheslining both heels at once. He set up a suplex, but Hernandez hit him from behind. Crimson entered the ring and knocked Hernandez over the top rope to the floor. Morgan then gave Anarquia a Carbon Footprint to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

WINNERS: Matt Morgan & Crimson in 6:00 to capture the TNA Tag Team Titles.

5 -- GARETT BISCHOFF (w/Sting) vs. GUNNER (w/Eric Bischoff, Ric Flair)

Garett wrestled in basketball shoes and pants, but without a shirt. What is it with promoters' sons and wrestling in tennis shoes? Gunner charged at Garett in the corner, but Garett moved and Gunner went shoulder-first into the ringpost. Taz said, "Can you imagine having Eric Bischoff as a father?" Taz said he has a son and he can't imagine rooting against him in anything he ever does. Gunner sold a shoulder injury, which distracted the ref long enough for Bischoff to hook Garett's leg as Gunner charged at him. Gunner side-slammed Garrett and then fish-hooked his mouth. Bischoff celebrated Garett getting beaten down. Garett surprised a cocky Gunner with a DDT out of nowhere for a three count. Sting laughed as Bischoff at ringside reacted with rage.

WINNER: Garett Bischoff in 4:00.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 19 2011, 11:09 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_55274.shtml) Condensed here like the milk your mom uses for baking desserts :p

1 - ALEX RILEY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre wins an early lock-up, but Riley wins a second, then forces Mac to the ground. This is being paced like a marathon match. McIntyre back to offense, but Alex comes back with Ten Punches in the corner. Drew outwits Riley on the outside, sending him to ringside selling a leg injury. A false commercial break, and Drew is still working the knee. Drew catches Alex when he tries to get his boots up on the corner charge, and uses it to hurt the leg some more.

The ref asks Riley if he's okay; he says yes, so McIntyre continues the leg work. Stanford questions the decision to continue at McIntyre puts on the Figure Four around the ringpost. McIntyre pulls Riley's kneepad down and continues various attacks on the leg. Riley finally kicks Drew off, who lands shoulder-first into the ringpost. Riley with big right bombs but Drew kicks his knew out. Riley hits clotheslines, a corner splash, and a spinebuster gets two

Drew comes back and gets a big boot for two, then with a corner attack until the ref pulls him out. He sits A-Ry on the turnbuckle, slaps him, and moves for a superplex, but Riley knocks him off and surprises him with a tornado DDT. McIntyre sends him back to the corner and tries a splash, but Riley ducks. Drew lands on the ropes, and Riley picks him up ona fireman's carry and hits his finisher (that Stanford calls "The Final Score") for the win.

WINNER: Alex Riley in 9:00. Riley looked good in the win and Drew McIntyre was his usual reliable self in putting on a very watchable match.

2 - THE USOS vs. EPICO & PRIMO

Interestingly enough, the heel team came out to Epico's music, not Primo's.

Quick takedown by Jimmy on Epico, and Jey tags in. Primo tags in and Jey blocks an arm drag to send Primo to the corner. Primo tries to shuck and jive but Jey keeps up. Jey whiffs a superkick but gets a back body drop when Primo tries to capitalize. Jey gets dumped to the outside, and there is a false commercial break.

Back on the show, it's Epico and Jimmy in the ring. The heels tag team inthe corner, and they do a unique double team spot where Primo suplexes Epico over the rope to drop him onto Jimmy. Primo slows it down while Jey begs for a tag. Quick Samoan Drop by Jimmy and both men tags out. Jey runs over Epico with a mix of blows and a stinkface. The action falls apart and Primo hits a codebreaker, sending Jimmy outside, then Epico gets the backstabber on Jey for the win.

WINNERS: Epico and Primo in 7:00. Very nice match - both teams have speed and skillful execution. Last year, WWE offered a lot of good matches between The Usos and the Hart Dynasty; I could watch The Usos and the Epico/Primo/Hunico stable go at it on a regular basis.

3 - TRENT BARRRETA vs. TYSON KIDD

I'm looking forwards to this, as these two always put on a good show. Lots of time in the show to give them a good match.

Lock-ups give neither man an advantage, even though at one point Kidd bends Trent all the way to the mat. Quick back and forth. Super-slick spot where Kidd is laying on the apron, Trent tries a baseball slide, but Kidd lifts his torso enough for Trent to slide underneath him to ringside. Kidd takes advantage then rolls Barreta into the ring. Meanwhile, the announcers totally ignore the action to give Matt Striker a lesson in social media. Even my beloved Superstars is being ruined by Twitter!

Trent finally gets some space with a running neckbreaker. Springboard legdrop by Trent as Kidd hangs through the ropes, then he gets his corkscrew moonsault for two. Tyson avvoid the Dudebuster DDT but Trent follows up with an enziguri and the Gobstopper Knee for two. The moonsault finally gets Striker and Matthews back on track. Kidd repeats the funky catch and toss (like a mid-air catch plus a flapjack of sorts) that he did last week, this time sending Barreta onto the turnbuckle face first. Kidd with a sick brainbuster for the win.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd in 5:00. What? There were 20 minutes left in the show when the match started; this should have been 15-20 minutes. Instead, the show ended with a 15-minute replay of Raw's final talking segment from Monday. Frankly, Tyson Kidd and Trent Barreta put on a great match and I thought Monday's talking segment was boring. This match was outstanding for the time it had. I'm not too keen on Tyson Kidd's brainbuster as a regular move, though, as it looks very dangerous when done to someone light like Trent Barreta. I'd hate to see what happens if he tries it on someone bigger or heavier.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 20 2011, 05:54 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_55299.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SIN CARA vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Ziggler took Cara down, but he didn’t stay down for long. Back to a vertical base, Ziggler slapped Cara. Fireman’s carry take-over by Ziggler. Mathews said Zack Ryder’s petition is “the most-signed petition in Twitter history.” Does no one in WWE realize how ridiculous that sounds? Couple of leap-frogs by Cara, then Ziggler held onto the ropes to slow things down a bit. Headscissors take-over by Cara sent Ziggler to the outside. Suicide dive landed. Lots of “Sin Cara” chants during this match thus far. As Cara tried to get back into the ring, Ziggler gave him a kick to the chest to send Cara back to the arena floor. Back in the ring, big elbowdrop by Ziggler. The US Champ worked the arm of Cara, grounding the high-flying superstar. High-flying springboard wrist-lock take-down by Cara, then a kick to Ziggler’s head. Roll-up by Cara, but Ziggler reversed and rolled Cara up, held the tights, and picked up the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 4:27. Under the right circumstances, a re-match between these two could really be fun.

2 – JACK SWAGGER vs. MASON RYAN

This match was joined in progress, but it looked like it was early in the contest as they were still only locking up. Mathews said Teddy Long made this match during the break. Ryan broke out of a rear waist-lock and powered Swagger into the corner. Short-arm clothesline by Ryan. He picked Swagger up, but Swagger ducked out the back and chop blocked the big man. Vader Bomb onto Ryan’s back for only two. Swagger hammered away with right hands on Ryan in the corner. Ryan was getting his arm up to defend himself though. Two splashes in the corner by Swagger, then a third. Vickie was still at ringside, but no sign of Ziggler or Cara. Suplex by Ryan, but they got to their feet at the same time. Swagger hit the ropes, then was hit with a clothesline. Running knee in the corner on Swagger, then a running big boot. Powerslam by Ryan for two. Michael Cole ran down some of the big moments in Survivor Series history. Swagger avoided a full-nelson and went for the knee again. Swagger couldn’t get the gutwrench locked in and Ryan put him in the full-nelson, then slammed him for the win.

WINNER: Ryan, 4:20 shown. Swagger did what he could with Ryan and made it watchable.

3 – TED DIBIASE vs. DERRICK BATEMAN

Bateman was seconded by Maxine. They did an inset interview where Bateman called themselves WWE’s power couple. I don’t know where to begin to analyze how exactly Bateman is on this show when he’s still technically competing for a contract on NXT. Not sure why they didn’t just use Johnny Curtis in this role, since he actually won a season, though you wouldn’t know it. Hip-toss by DiBiase, then a dropkick. Bateman took over thanks to a distraction of the referee by Maxine. Neck-breaker by Bateman for two. DiBiase turned things around in the corner, but it didn’t last long, as Bateman whipped DiBiase hard into the corner. DiBiase made his comeback after fighting off a rest-hold. Dream Street finished Bateman.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 2:36. DiBiase is certainly working his way up the ladder. I wish they’d build more guys up in this fashion.

4 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. HUNICO

Hunico grabbed a mic when he came to the ring. He spoke in Spanish at ringside. I caught “Hunico,” but that was about it. He did not translate for us gringos. Arm-drag by Kingston, but when Kingston tried a leg flip, Hunico dropkicked him. Front suplex by Hunico for two. He stretched Kingston’s leg while also working a chin-lock. Kingston got to his feet, but Kofi rolled him up for two. Kick to the mid-section of Kofi, then Hunico choked Kingston in the ropes. Hunico applied another unique potential submission move, a modified abdominal stretch with both men on the mat. More choking from Hunico. Hunico landed on his feet after Kingston moved out of the way of a springboard moonsault, but Kofi picked up the pace and hit his signature moves. Cross-body off the top but Hunico rolled through for a two-count. Hunico argued that it was three, so Kingston hit the SOS for the pinfall win.

WINNER: Kingston, at 5:01. And Kingston is off the schneid. Hunico got quite a bit of offense there.

5 – BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA vs. AJ & KAITLYN

During Nattie and Beth’s entrance, a graphic showed that Beth will be defending the Divas Title against Eve at Survivor Series in a Lumberjil match. AJ may have gotten re-tooled music. Either that or it’s Kaitlyn’s music, which we never hear. Dropkick by Kaitlyn on Phoenix, followed up by forearms in the corner. Phoenix brought Kaitlyn chest-first over the top rope, then continued to clobber her. Double-team by Natalya and Phoenix on Kaitlyn. Natalya with some trash talk, then an abdominal stretch in the middle of the ring. Kaitlyn took Nattie down and tried to tag AJ, but Natalya prevented that. Bodyslam by Natalya, but she missed a leg-drop. AJ tagged in and flew off the top with a cross-body. Natalya avoided a sunset flip and applied the Sharpshooter. AJ tapped after Natalya sat all the way back in the move, to the point that her shoulders were actually pinned to the mat.

WINNERS: Phoenix and Natalya, at 2:53. That finish looked extremely painful. The match was decent while it lasted.

6 – RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT & CODY RHODES

During Barrett’s entrance, they showed him picking up the win last week against Orton. I like the second remake of Cody’s original “Smoking Mirror” theme. That theme can really do no wrong; all three have been above-average. Rhodes did an inset interview that was a bit odd, basically saying he had no feelings toward Orton. As we saw on Monday, Rhodes is now without the facemask. Sheamus took Rhodes down, and Rhodes cowered a bit in the corner. He tagged Barrett and the ref’s mic was turned way up. Hard back-elbow to Barrett, then a cover for barely one. Suplex by Sheamus for another one-count. Back kick by Barrett to the mid-section of Sheamus, then an elbow. Orton came in and cleaned house, hitting his patented DDT on Barrett. Rhodes tried to come off the top rope while Orton set up for the RKO. Orton kicked Rhodes in the stomach as he came off the top, then gave him a gutwrench suplex. Big running boot by Barrett before they went to break at 3:50.

Back at the 6:45 mark of the match. Christian joined Team Barrett at ringside. Barrett was in control of Orton, but Orton fired back at 7:23 with right hands. The men hammered away on each other, but Barrett seemed to get the upper-hand with a knee-lift. Tag in to Rhodes, who stomped on Orton’s head. Back body-drop by Orton – Rhodes managed to make the tag, but Barrett attacked Sheamus before he could tag in. Knee-drop by Barrett for a near-fall. Back-breaker by Orton at 9:41 and both men were down. Both men made tags and Sheamus took the beating to Rhodes. From the top, he hit a shoulder tackle. He then tossed Barrett out of the ring over the top rope. He lined up for the Brogue Kick, but Christian tripped him with the crutch. No DQ yet, but then Christian poked Sheamus in the gut with the crutch, which ended the match.

WINNERS: Orton and Sheamus, via disqualification, at 10:45.

Rhodes and Barrett focused on Sheamus in the ring after disposing of Orton outside of it. Rhodes got the crutch, but Sheamus Brogue kicked him before he could use it. He then jabbed Barrett with the crutch and slammed it over his back. Orton slithered into the ring, gave Barrett and RKO, then slithered back out. Celtic Cross to Rhodes. The finish was replayed – I didn’t catch Cody’s Beautiful Disaster kick on Sheamus after the crutch shot. They also replayed the big spots in the post-match. Orton and Sheamus posed on opposite turnbuckles as Mathews got one last plug in for Cena and Rock, never before, never again, before the show signed off.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 21 2011, 02:15 pm
WWE Survivor Series PPV Results: 11-20-11 (Next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_55339.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JOHN MORRISON -- U.S. Title match

The crowd chanted, "We Want Ryder," at the start of the match. Of note, the giant videoboards next to the entrance ramp changed to photos of Ziggler and Morrison. Cole acknowledged the chants for Ryder and noted Laurinaitis denied Ryder's petition for a U.S. Title shot. As for the actual match, the two men worked hard early on trying to put the focus on themselves, but the crowd continued to chant for Ryder. As Ziggler settled into a reverse chinlock, the crowd started a very loud Ryder chant. Ziggler smirked, then yanked down Morrison by the hair to maintain control.

Morrison came back with a clothesline, then a swinging neckbreaker for a two count. The two men traded control before Ziggler slapped on his sleeperhold finisher. Morrison escaped, though, and slapped on a sleeper of his own, which drew boos. Morrison transitioned to a DDT and made a cover, but Vickie put Dolph's foot on the bottom rope. Ref Charles Robinson stopped the count, but gave Vickie the boot from ringside. The crowd popped as Vickie screamed and shrieked on the way out.

Back in the ring, Morrison approached Ziggler for a suplex, but Ziggler blocked and scored a two count on a small package. Sudden pinfall exchanges ensued. Ziggler then delivered a Rocker Dropper out of nowhere, but Morrison kicked out in time. Ziggler grabbed his hair in frustration before going for a desperation Zig-Zag that Morrison blocked. Morrison then hit a knee to the head, but Ziggler blocked Starship Pain. Ziggler then followed right up with the Zig-Zag to Morrison's injured neck for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 10:44 to retain the U.S. Title. Solid opener. They did their best to keep the focus on the match in the face of non-stop Ryder chants and Morrison looked good in defeat. (**1/2)

2 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX (w/Natalya) vs. EVE -- Divas Title match -- Lumberjill match

Back-and-forth early on with some lumberjills involved, but no outright brawling. Eve tried a moonsault, but Beth blocked, then went for the Glam Slam, but Eve blocked with a mid-ring submission. Beth escaped with help from Natalya, though. The match moved up top where the Divas struggled for control before Beth hit a top-rope Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Beth at 4:35 to retain the Divas Title. The Pain Train rolls on for Beth. It looks like Kelly will be next in line for another run at Beth's title.

3 -- Team Barrett (WADE BARRETT & IC champion CODY RHODES & HUNICO & U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER) vs. Team Orton (RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS & WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON & SIN CARA & MASON RYAN) -- traditional Survivor Series elimination match

Cole referenced historical WWE debuts in Survivor Series matches including Taker in 1990 and Rock in 1996. Ziggler, pulling double-duty, faced off against Kingston first. Suddenly, Orton tagged in and dropped Ziggler with an RKO. Orton scored a quick pin for the first elimination.

*** Ziggler eliminated by Orton at 1:33 ***

After the elimination, the heels huddled on the outside and Orton decided to bring a fight to them on the outside. Kingston and Sin Cara then landed big splashes on the heels on the floor. Sin Cara sold a knee injury after the spot, though. Referee Scott Armstrong checked on Sin Cara before trainers attended to him. The crowd picked up a "We Want Ryder" chant during the break in the action. A replay showed Cara catching himself on the top rope and airballing a splash on Hunico, who still sold it anyways. Justin Roberts then announced a formal elimination of Sin Cara as Cara removed his boot.

*** Sin Cara eliminated at 3:44 ***

After a break in the action, Orton and Cody picked things up again. Ryan then tagged in, the crowd groaned, and Ryan began delivering offense to Rhodes. Ryan tried a big boot, but Rhodes bailed to the floor. Hunico was the next man in for the heels and he took a beating from Ryan. Rhodes made a blind tag, though, and dropped Ryan with a step-up kick into Cross Rhodes to a big reaction. Rhodes pinned Ryan for the next elimination.

*** Ryan eliminated by Rhodes at 8:52 ***

"Cody, Cody" chant as the faces decided who should be next in the match. Sheamus entered and picked up a fight with Rhodes. The heels eventually isolated Sheamus and the announcers talked about Survivor Series history, stressing Shawn Michaels. Kingston then tagged in and the announcers said Kofi grew up wanting to be like Mike...aels. Kingston cleared the heels in and out of the ring, but Barrett cut him off with a kick inside the ropes. Barrett then hit Wasteland for the next elimination.

*** Kingston eliminated by Barrett at 14:06 ***

As expected, Orton and Sheamus were the last two men for the faces and were faced with long odds. The heels isolated Orton as Lawler referenced his personal SS history. Sheamus eventually took a tag and delivered a beating to Swagger. Hunico was dumped to the floor, then Sheamus dropped Swagger with the Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus then had enough of Swagger and delivered a corner beating that lasted past a five count, drawing a DQ.

*** Sheamus DQ'ed at 18:30 ***

After being DQ'ed, Sheamus dropped Swagger with the Brogue Kick, which probably should have DQ'ed his entire team for a post-elimination attack. Orton then scooped up Swagger's scraps and scored a pinfall to eliminate Swagger, which drew Cole's ire.

*** Swagger eliminated by Orton at 19:33 ***

With Orton alone in the match, the heels began working over Orton. Cole said it would be an "absolute miracle" if Orton pulled this off. Rhodes stomped away at Orton, then mocked The Pose right in front of Orton. Orton then exploded on Rhodes with strikes and a snap powerslam. Orton followed with a faceplant DDT off the second rope before entering That Place. Barrett distracted him, though, and Hunico tagged in for Rhodes. Hunico went for a springboard move, but Orton intercepted him with a mid-air RKO. Orton with the pin.

*** Hunico eliminated by Orton at 21:38 ***

Barrett was the next heel in the match and was able to blindside Orton after Orton dropped Rhodes with an RKO. Barrett then hit Wasteland to score the decisive pin for the win. Cue up Barrett's celebration before Cole claimed Sin Cara has a ruptured patella tendon and the knee injury prevented him from continuing in the match. They went to a replay of the finish before Barrett and Rhodes celebrated the win.

WINNERS: Barrett & Rhodes at 22:10. The match was set up for a predictable outcome of Orton overcoming the odds, but WWE is obviously really, really behind Barrett right now, as evidenced by the outcome. Rhodes had a very strong showing along with Barrett. The match itself was okay, but never really moved to the next level. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 21 2011, 02:17 pm
4 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. BIG SHOW -- World Hvt. Title match

The bell sounded and Show displayed his power by shoving Henry down. Henry, stunned and angered, shoved Show away to the ropes after a second lock-up. Show knocked down Henry again and Henry rolled to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Show took down Henry with a waistlock. Henry tried to charge at Show, but Show side-stepped and Henry spilled to the outside. Another breather for Henry, who claimed Show hooked his tights. Cole used the break in the action to hype Twitter again.

Henry returned to the ring and complained about Show's tactics to continue stalling as he looked to frustrate Show. Henry finally got an opening after clipping Show's left knee. Henry then began focusing on Show's knee. The crowd became restless as Henry continued his methodical attack. The crowd chanted "Daniel Bryan," which Cole acknowledged and said Bryan was not in the building due to Henry's attack on Smackdown.

Show made a comeback and wanted a chokeslam, but Henry countered with a slam for a two count. A big splash off the ropes also resulted in a two count for Henry. Henry wanted another splash and turned it into a leaping elbow drop, but Show kicked out again. The match then moved to the floor, where Henry charged Big Show with a big splash that knocked Show through the gimmicked guardrail. No planted "fans" ringside to react a la Summerslam. Cole referenced the same spot at Summerslam and said Big Show was Sheamus tonight. Henry managed to make it back into the ring at nine to avoid a count-out, so the match continued.

In the ring, they teased a top-rope spot, but Show blocked. Show then hit a standing superkick to Henry's jaw the decked him. "HBK" chant as Show caught his breath then slowly approached the top turnbuckle. Show started climbing as the crowd came to their feet. Show made it two-thirds of the way to the top turnbuckle, then balanced himself at the very top. Show bounced on the top turnbuckle a few times, then flew off the top with an elbow drop across the ring that popped the crowd. Show paused before making cover, allowing Henry to kick out. The crowd gasped for the nearfall, then chanted "Randy Savage" as the two men collected themselves on the mat. After a reset, the two men came to their feet and Henry kicked Show between the legs, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Show's music played as Henry received his title belt. Henry stood over Show, then dropped his title belt and left the ring to retrieve a chair. (TLC foreshadowing?) Henry threw the chair into the ring, kicked Show in the head, and placed Show's foot inside the chair. Henry then wanted a big splash, but Show managed to move his leg to avoid. Show then came to his feet and delivered the KO Punch to Henry. The crowd chanted "Daniel Bryan," wanting the MITB cash-in. No dice. Show then grabbed the chair Henry tried to use on him and placed Henry's foot inside the chair. Show paused, then delivered a big leg drop that caused Henry to scream in pain and roll around on the mat.

Medics checked on Henry before Show casually walked out of the ring with his music playing. After a replay of the finish and post-match, they went back to the ring to show Henry being helped onto a stretcher. Booker wondered aloud if the World champ will be out of action after this. Henry tried to refuse medical attention, but claimed his ankle was broken. Henry cut a promo on the medics before they cut away.

WINNER: Show via DQ at 13:04; Henry retained the World Title. Some slow moments, but also some memorable moments to this second encounter. The use of the chair points to a No DQ Chairs match at the TLC PPV, assuming WWE doesn't script a write-off for Henry following the post-match injury angle.

5 -- WWE champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. C.M. PUNK -- WWE Title match

Cole noted the WWE Title has changed hands 15 times at MSG, the most of any arena. The crowd chanted, "We want ice cream," before the two men locked up. Stalemate. "C-M Punk" chant before the two men locked up again and drew even. Punk took control moments later, so Del Rio bailed to the floor to stall for time. The announcers then plugged Twitter and what was trending at the moment. Suddenly, Ricardo tripped Punk from the outside, drawing The Look from Punk. Punk then chased RR around the ring, but ran right into a dropkick from Del Rio.

Back in the ring at the top of the third hour, Del Rio delivered a double axehandle from the top rope for a two count. Del Rio then began working over Punk's left arm to set up the cross arm-breaker later in the match. Del Rio spilled to the outside, though, and sold an injury that alarmed Ricardo.

Del Rio returned to the ring, where he ate a dropkick. The two men then traded blows from a standing position as the crowd joined in with yeah / boos. Punk scored with a dropkick to finish the sequence, but Del Rio kicked out. Punk followed with a corner knee, then running bulldog, but Del Rio escaped again. Punk followed right up with a springboard clothesline and Del Rio kicked out for the third time in a row. Punk wanted to end it and signaled for the GTS, but Del Rio escaped with a backstabber. Punk kicked out of a pin, though.

Del Rio took control moments later with a step-up enziguiri next, but Punk kicked out of a pin. The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Punk headbutted Del Rio to the mat. Punk then collected himself and surveyed the crowd before doing the Macho Man signal. Del Rio popped up to his feet and cut off Punk, though, and delivered a kick to the arm. Del Rio tried to follow with a charging attack, but Punk moved and Del Rio ate the post. So, Punk tried the Savage elbow drop for a second time and connected this time. It was only good for a two count, though. "Randy Savage" chant as Punk collected himself. Punk then began stomping the mat before trying the GTS again, but Del Rio escaped. A series of nice counters ensued. Suddenly, Del Rio rolled into the cross arm-breaker targeting Punk's injured arm. Punk screamed in pain as the crowd chanted "C-M Punk," then Punk broke the ropes to save the match.

Del Rio tried to follow up, but Punk blocked and big-booted Ricardo off the ring apron. Del Rio tried to follow with a small package, but Punk kicked out just before three. Punk then slapped on the Vice and Del Rio fought the hold furiously. Del Rio tried to eye-gouge Punk to break the hold, but Del Rio tapped out and Punk is the new WWE champion.

Post-match: The crowd roared, then Punk left the ring and jumped into the crowd. Fink announced him as the *new* WWE champion before Punk received his title belt to celebrate in the crowd. Punk returned to ringside before jumping back into the crowd on the other side of the ringside area. That looked like Peter Rosenberg ringside. They replayed the finish before returned to a live shot of Punk celebrating in the ring. Lawler and Booker noted Cole was quiet here. No apology from Punk to Cole yet. Punk celebrated on the way out of the ring before pausing off-stage to bow to the crowd. Cole said he can't believe this man is representing WWE now. More shots of Punk posing with the title belt.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 17:17 to capture the WWE Title. Excellent title match. Some very good sequences, a hot crowd, and a memorable moment for Punk. I predicted a DQ victory for Punk to set up another match at TLC, but it looks like the re-match will still take place at TLC to possibly conclude the feud. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 21 2011, 02:18 pm
6 -- THE ROCK & JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ & R-TRUTH

Once the bell sounded, Rock started things off. Rock looked like a giant man standing next to Miz. Rock ran over Miz with a shoulder tackle, then delivered a forceful armdrag. And another. Textbook victory roll by Rock nearly scored a pin. The crowd popped as Rock stood tall center-ring and the heels retreated on the floor. Rock then turned toward Cena and stared him down. Cena just nodded. "You still got it," chant from the crowd. Nice opening moment.

Miz returned to the ring, but Truth stopped him and said he wants Rock. Rock told Truth to just bring it. Rock grabbed a headlock, then did a kip up before blasting Truth with a right hand. Rock then executed a fisherman suplex on Truth, but Cena had charged the ring to blast Miz, causing the ref to miss the three count. Cena returned to his corner and took a scolding from Rock. Cena smirked and said it was his bad. The heels regrouped and Miz re-entered. "Fruity Pebbles" chant from the crowd, then Miz demanded a piece of Cena. Rock asked Cena if he's ready, the two men exchanged looks, and Rock slap-tagged Cena into the match.

Cena slowly entered the ring to loud boos to face off with Miz. Cena smiled, then circled the ring. Cena and Miz paused to listen to the crowd and soak in the crowd response. "You can't wrestle" chant before Cena and Miz locked up center ring. Cena delivered a monkey flip out of the corner, then a dropkick that sent Miz scurrying to the corner to tag in Truth. Cena danced around the ring and Rock sold annoyance before pacing the ring. "You still suck" chant from the crowd. Center-ring, Cena and Truth squared off before Cena delivered a series of shoulder tackles. Cena wanted the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but paused to give Rock the You Can't See Me handwave. Rock slowly entered the ring to exchange words with Cena, which allowed Truth to blindside Cena. The heels then took over and began working over Cena.

The crowd picked up a dueling chant of "Cena Sucks / Let's Go Cena," but the pro-Cena chants were drowned out. This was followed by a "We Want Rocky" chant. Cena then found himself on the outside, but the heels rolled Cena back into the ring to deliver more offense. Rock teased entering the ring to break up a pin just before Cena kicked out of a DDT from Miz. Booker suddenly started heeling on Rock, calling him a very selfish person. Lawler joked that just because Rock beat him on a handful of occasions doesn't mean Rock is a selfish person. The crowd was quiet at this point with no one to root for since they weren't being "rebellious" favoring Truth or Miz and weren't there to see Cena.

At 15:00, Truth did a dance move into a leg drop on Cena for a two count. Truth then tried a top-rope move, but Cena rolled through into a "display of power" attempt, only to have Truth counter for a two count. Miz tagged in and began taunting Rock with a big smile on his face. Miz tried a kick, but Cena countered with an STF. Truth broke it up with a kick to Cena's face, then tagged in, but Cena dropped him with a pancake. Rock paced the apron looking for a tag as Cena crawled across the ring, but Miz charged Rock to cheap-shot him. On the floor, Truth assaulted Rock while Miz continued to wear down Cena. After Rock recovered, he tried to charge the heels in the ring, but the ref held him back.

The action reset with the heels in control again. Truth did another dance move into a leg drop attempt, but Cena moved and Truth ate the mat. This time, Cena made the tag to Rock, who came in hot on Miz and Truth. Truth ate the Rock Bottom, then Rock slapped on a Sharpshooter on Miz. Miz fought the hold and tried to reach the ropes before Truth dropped Rock with a DDT to break it up. Cena then cleared Truth from the ring, leaving Rock and Miz alone in the ring.

At 20:30, Miz landed rapid-fire blows to Rock before talking trash. Miz kept talking trash, which opened him up for a spinebuster. Rock then paused to stand over Miz as the crowd popped. Rock faced the hard camera, removed the elbow pad, tossed it into the crowd, and delivered the People's Elbow right to Miz's heart. Rock made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNERS: Rock & Cena at 21:35. Rock looked completely dominant here, as expected. It was interesting WWE kept things simple with the finish by having Rock win clean to give the audience a satisfying ending rather than a rapid-fire sequence of events ending with Miz or Truth scoring a quick pin, then a post-match angle taking precedent. It was just Rock finishing off the heels and being the dominant star in the Rock-Cena program. Overall, a satisfying conclusion to the PPV built on Rock's return. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 23 2011, 02:33 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_55376.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- ZACK RYDER vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

Del Rio quickly pounded on Ryder once the bell sounded. Cole said Del Rio is going to take out his frustrations on Ryder. Del Rio quickly targeted the left shoulder as the crowd tried to rally behind Ryder. Cole plugged Twitter before Ryder made a comeback with a Broski Boot. Ryder wanted the Rough Ryder, but Del Rio blocked and shoved Ryder into the corner. Del Rio followed with a step-up enziguiri before slapping on the cross arm-breaker. Ryder tapped out immediately, which gave Del Rio the submission win. Cole said Del Rio is ready for his title match next week. Booker said Ryder isn't ready yet to take the next step.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 2:26. Exactly what you would expect: Del Rio dominates early, Ryder makes a comeback to retain some credibility, and Del Rio gets the decisive win ahead of next week's title match.

2 -- SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Sheamus cleared Swagger to the outside early on, so Swagger walked around on the floor to stall for time. Back in the ring, Sheamus delivered more offense before Swagger took control in the corner. Swagger followed with a corner Vader Bomb before applying submission holds. The crowd rallied behind Sheamus, who made a comeback with a bodyslam for a two count. Sheamus then uncharacteristically climbed up top and jumped over Swagger, who was ready for a top-rope move. They countered each other before Swagger slapped on the Anklelock. Sheamus escaped, then followed with the Brogue Kick for a pin and the win. Booker said Sheamus was the better man tonight.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:31. Nice, clean win for Sheamus to reinforce his singles dominance. And, another reminder that Swagger is a few pegs below Sheamus, but has enough physical credibility to make it look like a meaningful win for Sheamus.

3 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

Booker and Cole referred to Booker's recent issues with Rhodes on Smackdown, continuing to foreshadow Booker's in-ring return. In the ring, Rhodes stomped away on Santino. Suddenly, Santino blocked a corner move and wanted the Cobra, but Rhodes easily avoided and hit Cross Rhodes. Pin and the win in one minute flat. As they replayed the finish, Booker continued to call out Rhodes.

Back live, Rhodes stepped off the ring apron in front of the announce table and approached Booker. Rhodes said he can hear him. He told Booker to come get some. Booker said he has no personal beef with him. Suddenly, Rhodes threw a cup of water in Booker's face. Now it's personal. Booker stepped up to glare at Rhodes, who simply walked off to the back. They cut to a replay of Rhodes embarrassing Booker as Cole complained about getting wet. Booker, indignant and trying to keep his cool, wiped himself down as Cole demanded a towel for himself.

WINNER: Rhodes at 1:00. Nice, slow build to Booker's return for a feud with Rhodes.

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title Champion vs. Champion match

Loud "C-M-Punk" chant as the bell sounded. Cole continued to add insult to Booker's injury that Cody Rhodes is trending on Twitter after throwing water in Booker's face. Booker said he's not going to let Rhodes insult him like that. Meanwhile, Punk and Ziggler went through a feeling-out process to start the match. They had an interesting exchange teasing each other with leap frogs that looked like a combination of a blown spot or a planned spot that was meant to look spontaneous. Ziggler then bailed to the outside for a breather.

Back in the ring, Ziggler took control and began wearing down Punk with strikes to the upper body. Cole reset the show, noting Cena will be heard from later tonight, but still no mention of Jonah Hill. Punk then made a comeback and Vickie hopped on the ring apron to provide a distraction. It was good enough for Ziggler to avoid a corner attack and Punk went flying over the top rope to the outside. Ziggler randomly did a handstand as Punk sold on the outside and they cut to break.

Back from break, Ziggler was wearing down Punk in the ring. Punk then made a comeback with a lariat, knee strike, and swinging neckbreaker for a two count. Punk teased the GTS, but Ziggler countered with a sleeperhold. Ziggler put Punk on the mat, but Punk reached his feet to switch into GTS position, but Ziggler rolled through into a pin attempt. Ziggler tried to use the ropes for leverage, but the ref stopped him. Punk tried to follow with a pin using the ropes, but Ziggler escaped.

The action reset at 13:00 with Punk delivering a corner knee strike into a bulldog for a two count. Punk followed with a scoop slam before going to the corner for a Macho Man elbow drop. Ziggler rolled to the opposite end of the ring, though, so Punk stepped down and slowly walked toward Ziggler, but walked right into a snap dropkick. Two count only. The fight then moved up top, where Punk headbutted Ziggler to the mat before delivering the Macho Man elbow. Punk made a cover, but Ziggler kicked out again.

At 15:00, Punk called for the end. Punk measured Ziggler for the GTS, but Ziggler slipped out and delivered an overhead suplex for another nearfall. Ziggler snapped and nearly got himself DQ'ed trying to inflict rapid-fire blows to Punk. Ziggler calmed down, then wanted the Fameasser, but Punk countered by grabbing Ziggler in the air. He was apparently going to transition to the GTS, but had to drop Ziggler on the mat to avoid hurting each other. Punk followed right up with the finish of a GTS for the pin and the win.

Post-match: The camera zoomed in on Punk having a bloody lip. They replayed the high points of the match and the finish before returning to the ring to show Punk sitting down and celebrating the win. On the ramp, Ziggler was shown catching his breath and clutching the U.S. Title belt. Back to Punk celebrating in the ring leading to a plug for Cena addressing Rock tonight.

WINNER: Punk at 16:25. That was a very strong TV match minus the botch at the end. Greg Parks and I talked about the possibility of a Punk-Ziggler series on the post-Survivor Series PWTorch Livecast last night and they certainly delivered on the first night. (***)

5 -- WADE BARRETT vs. WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON

Barrett was the aggressor early on, but Kofi came back with rapid-fire offense. Barrett had enough and delivered a knock-down clothesline. The crowd tried to rally with a "Kofi, Kofi" chant before Randy Orton's music hit. Barrett, who had Kofi in position for Wasteland, dropped the move as Orton walked toward the ring. Barrett backed away as they cut to break with Orton standing by the ring staring a hole in Barrett.

Back from break, Barrett was working over Kofi as Orton was seated quietly in a folding chair ringside. Barrett continued to dominate Kofi as Orton watched intently. In-between moves, Barrett shot a look toward Orton to make sure he got a good look at his dominance. Meanwhile, WWE flashed a list of items trending on Twitter right now and they actually included "Masked Kane," revealing the mystery vignette earlier. The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Kofi knocked Barrett to the mat before landing a high cross-body. Kofi started to build some momentum and delivered the Boom Drop.

At 11:00, Kofi warmed up for Trouble in Paradise, but Barrett avoided, only to take a pendulum kick. Kofi tried a top-rope move, but Barrett kicked the ropes to crotch Kofi. Barrett followed up with Wasteland - while staring down Orton - and it was good for the pin and the win.

Post-match: They replayed Barrett the finish before Barrett took a mic in the ring and re-announced himself as the winner in Orton's face as Orton was trying to leave on the outside. Orton then slowly turned toward Barrett before frightening him with a quick jabstep move. Orton flashed a half-smile before his music played and he walked away. Barrett quietly nodded, trying to maintain his composure.

WINNER: Barrett at 11:45. Solid match, albeit mainly one-sided in Barrett's favor. I like this Orton-Barrett feud, which is keeping both men right around the World Title picture on Smackdown. (**)

Final segment of RAW was about Cena and the apparent breakup of Awesome Truth as Miz grabbed Truth and dropped him with a Skullcrushing Finale on the entrance ramp.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 24 2011, 01:07 pm
Hulk Hogan gets body-slammed as divorce details go public. (http://tv.yahoo.com/blogs/yahoo-tv/hulk-hogan-divorce-details-public-210908388.html)

Basically Linda got more than 70% of the liquid assets plus 40% ownership stakes in his companies and also a $3 million property settlement to boot. OUCH!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 26 2011, 02:50 am
WWE NXT Redemption Results: 11-23-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55466.shtml). Coondensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Tatsu chases Curtis to the corner after winning an early lock-up. Regal claims to have been married 16 times. Tatsu continues to maintain control. There is some bizarre banter here. Curtis is selling as if Tatsu is wearing lead gloves, but he turns it around. He goes to the apron, shimmies his rear in Maxine's direction (or perhaps he is trying to impress Regal?), and then launches himself over the ropes and leg drops Yoshi for a two count.

Curtis prepares for a suplex, but waves to Maxine first. Bateman gets annoyed and Maxine says that she can't control his behavior. Bateman starts getting riled up about the Maxine-Curtis situation as Tatsu gets out. Maxine storms out, and gives Curtis a lingering look on her way out. Bateman brags about trending on Twitter, so I guess he's ready for Raw. Curtis gives Maxine the "call me" sign as she leaves the ramp.

Tatsu goes on the attack with chops and strikes, then lands a running spinning heel kick. Curtis dodges a big boot and puts Yoshi on the turnbuckle, but Tatsu fights off the superplex. Yoshi with the top rope heel kick for the win.

WINNER: Yoshi Tatsu in 5:00. This was an angle, not a match, and the folks in the ring didn't give it their all as a result.

2 - JIMMY USO (w/Jey Uso) vs. JTG (w/Tamina)

JTG with early control, but his showboating lets Jimmy kip up and slap him out of the ring. JTG uses Tamina as a shield and he gets back in the ring, but Jimmy ducks a punch and sends JTG to the corner. JTG turns things around and goes on his generic offense routine. Striker goes on a long series of famous Samoans in WWE, and Regal says he'd like to see Rikishi come out and dance on the stage. On the outside, Jey rallies the crowd to get Jimmy fired up. He fights out of a hold and slaps JTG a number of times, sends him to the corner and splashes him.

Jimmy with the stinkface, which gets two. JTG slips our of a Samoan drop attemp, tries a drop down punch, but gets superkicked in the face. Jimmy goes to the top with the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNER: Jimmy Uso in 6:00. This match never got out of neutral, let along second gear. JTG just doesn't put on good matches, and the Usos haven't mastered singles matches yet.

3 - PERCY WATSON & TITUS O'NEIL vs. TYLER REKS & DARREN YOUNG (w/Curt Hawkins)

Watson and Young start off, but Young hides in the ropes when it looks like Watson may have the better of him. Watson gets the better of him once he gets his hands on him. Percy tags in Titus, but Young runs to the corner to bring in Reks. Reks mocks Titus, so Titus hauls off and punches him in the mouth. Back-and-forth between Reks and O'Neil, and Reks drags Titus to the corner to tag in Young. Heel teamwork in the corner by Reks and Young. Titus blocks Reks's suplex, and counters with one of his own, and tags in Watson. Watson with a pair of dropkicks and a flying clothesline and a throw send Reks to the ringside to catch a break. Percy with a leap over the rope to take them out as they cut to break.

Out of the break, Reks fights out of a double team situation and isolates Watson, and eventually settles into a side headlock. Regal is excited to be in "WWE '12" because he has abs. Strikers asks if Regal likes video games and he says that he just likes to see how good he looks in the game, with abs. Young tags in and continues the assault. Regal praises Young and Reks for sticking with the basic tag match formula. Regal says he was always impressed by Young, even when they had their spat. Reks tags in and abuses Watson some more. He starts yammering at the crowd, and Watson tries to use that as a chance to come back.

Gordbuster from Reks prompts Striker to say they need a Twitter campaign to get Arn Anderson in the Hall of Fame. Reks clears Titus from the apron, but that lets Watson surprise him with a back body drop. Watson kicks Reks away and both men tag out. O'Neil knocks Reks off the apron, and does his hot tag routine. Reks breaks up a pin so Watson clears him, then Young clears Young. O'Neil prepares for the end, but Hawkins distracts him, so Young is able to hit the Gut Check for the win.

WINNERS: Tyler Reks and Darren Young in 10:00. I like Tyler Reks, I like Percy Watson, but this was a really generic tag match where the whole match was just filler for the "everyone clears everyone from the ring until one person hits a finisher" ending. Interesting to see them so high on Darren Young fresh off of a suspension.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 26 2011, 02:53 am
WWE Superstars Results: 11-24-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_55482.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TED DIBIASE vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Pre-match, Drew comes out looking like he just found out that someone stole his car or something, taking out some aggression on the apron. There's a little DiBiase chant going on, makes me question what he does at those "DiBiase Posse" things. Ted escapes and reverses an early lockout and takes Drew to the mat. Ted continues with chain wrestling, including an interesting arm drag into a sideways jackknife pin. Ted with a number of different leverage pin attempts. Drew slaps Ted, causing Ted to get aggressive. DiBiase clotheslines McIntyre from the ring, then actually does a suicide dive through the ropes. Very impressive for a guy who is billed as about 70 lbs. more than Daniel Bryan. On the outside, Mac manages to wheelbarrow DiBiase face-first into the apron. Again, impressive.

Back from beak, McIntyre is kicking the stuffing out of Ted. There's a sweet spot where Ted tries the "leap over the person charging in the corner" trick, but instead of running into the ring post, McIntyre slides and does a Pele kick to DiBiase's gut, sending him flying. Very innovative. McIntyre covers for two and then moves to a seated abdominal stretch. Ted jawbreakers his way out, and then from nowhere comes out with a crucifix pin attempt, good for two. Gutbuster from Drew coming out of the cover, then he drags Ted's head over the apron, goes outside, and starts beating on Ted's chest. He drapes DiBiase's face over the second rope and playfully kicks it. Drew starts to paintbrush Ted on the mat, but Ted comes back with slaps. Drew with a Big Boot to put Ted back down. More "DiBiase" chants.

Drew to the second rope, but Ted counters with a dropkick on the whiffed move. both men are down and the ref gets to seven before they both get up. Ted with punches, atomic drop, and a running high knee or dropkick. Ted with the turnaround clothesline for a convincing nearfall. Ted is rocking a moustache, of note. McIntyre creams Ted when Ted tries something from the second rope. They trade moves, and Drew pulls out a wheelbarrow into a front suplex for two. Drew maintains control in the corner, but Ted reverses a suplex attempt into Dream Streets for the win.

WINNER: Ted DiBiase in 13:00. This was a very believable match. Unpredictable in the finish, and a number of spots from both men where they looked like they were wrestling in a Cruiserweight style. I was really impressed here, and if you get a chance, this match is worth a watch. Nice length. McIntyre does a good job at making others look good, while he's been on a losing streak he's managed to retain credibility, and he always looks like he could actually win the match. Both men should be putting this match on their highlight reels.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Funny crowd shot of a girl in Macho Man shirt and Broski sunglasses going nuts for Alex Riley. The same fans in classic C.M. Punk shirts that cheered Ted DiBiase are cheering for Alex Riley. McGillicutty is so dull, he can't even get the vocal males to prefer him to the face. McGillicutty tosses his hat at Alex to divert his attention, then kicks him into the corner. Alex is angry and goes ape on Mike. Alex with strong offense, including Ten Punches in the corner followed immediately by a DDT. McGillicutty dodges a charge and Riley eats ringpost. McGillicutty kicks his head as Riley rests, and then hits a big dropkick. McGillicutty takes elbows to Riley and settles into a headlock.

Riley headbutts out and drops big bombs on McGillicutty, who counters with a neckbreaker. They trade rights and McGillicutty knocks him down again. Back-and-forth, but A-Ry gets a spinebuster and his floatover DDT but it's only a nearfall. Riley looks angry, but McGillicutty dumps him outside. As Mike tries to come trough the ropes, Riley hits a dropkick and goes to the apron. McGillicutty grabs the ropes to get up, and Riley pulls off a springboard sunset flip but McGillicutty sits down to pin Riley for the win.

WINNER: Michael McGillicutty in 8:00. The match itself was decent. Riley showed great promise and the sunset flip was nuts for a guy his size. That said, the wrong person won here. I don't think McGillicutty has any upside right now, while Riley has a lot of promise.

3 - TRENT BARRETA vs. JINDER MAHAL

I hope they give this lots of time. Jinder Mahal has a very unique style that I enjoy watching, with crisp execution and he has a good look too. He also carries himself well in segments. Pre-match, he cuts a promo in Hindi. And, Trent Barreta is one of WWE's unappreciated gems.

Jinder leads off with hard knees to the gut, Trent comes back with a snap huracarana then his elbow from the ropes. Trent goes to the turnbuckle for his corkscrew moonsault, and in the "HOLY COW" moment of the night, the cameraman sitting at the bottom of the turnbuckle catches it as Mahal pushes Trent so hard off the turnbuckle that he lands into the barricade. This is something you see sometimes and it looks high impact, but the camera angle just made it look like Mahal airmailed Trent back to Long Island. Great work from the production team.

Scott Armstrong checks on Trent while Mahal sends him back into the ring and covers twice. Trent is selling hard and Mahal sends some hard boots into the ribs. Jinder with a gutbuster which gets one, then moves into the abdominal stretch. Barreta looks like he's going to cry, and Mahal abuses his ribs when he tries to get out.

Striker calls Mahal the "Punjab Punisher," which I like. Mahal places Baretta on the turnbuckle and looks for a belly-to-back suplerplex, which Trent elbows out of. Barreta stays up top and nails his corkscrew moonsault for a nearfall after a slow cover. They are both slow to get up, and Barreta goes back on the attack with chops, but Jinder cuts him off with a knee to the gut. Mahal shrugs off a Dudebuster DDT attempt and Barreta sells the rubs. Mahal with a Camel Clutch and Trent taps out.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 8:00. Wow, that was a really fun match! Like the first match, there was no way to know who was going to win based on the booking, the two fighting styles contrasted so well together. I don't think I've seen a Trent Barreta match I didn't like, and Jinder Mahal has a lot of in-ring talent too.

4 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd tries to chain wrestle Jackson, but Jackson powers out. Matt Striker with the announcing line of the month, says that Kidd told him that last week they spent too much time talking about Twitter and not enough time talking about the match (very true, as I mentioned in last week's report!) and that Kidd will kick Matthews in the face if they do it again this week. I'd like that to be a general rule. Matthews no-sells it. In the ring, Kidd struggles to gain traction. He tries a springboard move, but Jackson plucks him off the top rope and does a number of overhead presses. Kidd slips out and takes Jackson down by the knee. Jackson grabs Kidd by the throat and sends him into the ropes, and gets a big back body drop. Easily eight feet of air there.

Kidd kicks the feet out of Zeke again, then with a dropkick to Zeke's head. Jackson throws Kidd out of the ring on the kickout. Kidd hotshots Jackson on the ropes and then chokes him in the ropes. Tyson with a guillotine leg drop on Jackson who is draped through the ropes, then a springboard elbow drop for two. That was his finisher in his ECW debut. Kidd with a chinlock that looks laughable on Zeke. Zeke gets out but eats boots on a charge. Kidd with a tornado DDT for two. Kidd back to the chinlock. Jackson stands up but Kidd holds on until Jackson backs into the corner. Jackson with a back elbow, then the corner clotheslines, and punches on Kidd, nearly drawing the DQ. Belly-to-back suplex from Jackson, then he picks Kidd up for the torture rack, Kidd taps out.

WINNER: Ezekiel Jackson in 5:00. I can't believe they kept Big Zeke, but let Chris Masters go. Not even Tyson Kidd could make Ezekiel Jackson watchable. I guess Kidd "looked good in the loss" by hanging with Zeke for five minutes. I would rather have seen these five minutes go to a Divas match, and the Barreta-Mahal or DiBiase-McIntyre matches as the main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2011, 03:32 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-25-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_55509.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO

Wrist-lock take-over by Gabriel, but Hunico came back with a short clothesline as Cole gloated about Bryan getting this World Title taken away from him. Hunico suplexed Gabriel from the apron back into the ring for a two-count. Tilt-a-whirl back-breaker for another two-count. Hunico blocked a clothesline and hit an Olympic slam. Another chin-lock. Hard whip into the buckle, then Hunico propelled himself into the ring and landed a dropkick on the seated Gabriel. Headscissors by Gabriel, and Hunico rolled to ringside. Gabriel with a twisting cross-body onto Hunico at ringside. Kick to the back of the head by Gabriel back in the ring. Springboard moonsault found the mark for a near fall. Gabriel placed Hunico on the top turnbuckle and attempted a back suplex, but Hunico gave Gabriel a thumb to the eye to send him to the mat. Swanton by Hunico for the win.

WINNER: Hunico, at 4:23. I thought maybe Hunico would ended up being treated like Tyler Reks after last year’s Survivor Series, but this would seem to indicate differently.

2 – BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA vs. AJ & KAITLYN

Nattie with a knee to the gut in the corner. Kaitlyn took Nattie to the babyface corner and tagged in AJ. AJ flipped Natalya into the ropes, and rolled Natalya up for two. Hair pull took her down, however. Nattie then locked in the Sharpshooter for the win.

WINNERS: Natalya and Phoenix, at 1:05. Just a way to further the AJ/Kaitlyn storyline and set up Fox as a possible title contender in the next few weeks.

After the match, a frustrated Kaitlyn walked out on AJ as Natalya reapplied the Sharpshooter and Phoenix got a microphone, imploring AJ to cry. Fox got up from the announce table and entered the ring, backing down the heel Divas.

3 – JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. ZACK RYDER & SHEAMUS

Ziggler took Sheamus down in the first minute, and did some showing off. Sheamus responded with a hip-lock take-over. Ziggler telegraphed a dropkick, then Sheamus gave him a fall-away slam. Swagger tagged in at the two-minute mark. Swagger tried to do some amateur wrestling, but Sheamus elbowed out of a rear waist-lock and added a few headbutts for good measure. Swagger was sent to ringside, as was Ziggler. Ryder hit the ropes and somersaulted over the top and onto the heels. The babyfaces celebrated as momentum was on their side. The show went to break at 3:17 of the match.

Back at 6:23 of the match with Ryder ducking a few clotheslines by Swagger and nailing him with a forearm. Sheamus tagged in and gave Swagger a diving shoulder tackle over the top rope. Swagger took control with a shot to the knee. Ziggler tagged in and aggressively went after Sheamus. Swagger came back in and did some more damage, but Sheamus got his knees up on a Vader bomb attempt. Sheamus made the tag to Ryder, who white-washed Swagger with a boot in the corner. Vickie got on the apron to distract the ref (and Ryder), allowing Swagger to escape the ring. Ryder went out after him and Ziggler sacrificed himself so Swagger could recover and retaliate on Ryder. Roll-up out of nowhere for two by Ryder, but Ziggler followed with a high elbowdrop. Neck-breaker then a kip up by Ziggler. Ryder was able to fight out of the heel corner, at least, for a few seconds, but the numbers game became too much. Sheamus broke up a pin after Swagger held Ryder for Ziggler’s fameasser. Vader bomb by Swagger and still only a two-count. Ryder and Ziggler traded near-falls, but Ryder desperately needed a tag. The long heat segment on Ryder continued with Sheamus attempting to interfere, drawing the ire of the ref. Tornado DDT at 15:20 by Ryder and both he and Swagger were down. Sheamus and Ziggler both tagged in so Ziggler could bump around for Sheamus. Celtic Cross, but Swagger interrupted it. Ryder tagged himself in as Sheamus nailed Swagger with the Brogue Kick. Zig Zag was shrugged off by Sheamus (after it looked like Ziggler overshot it a bit), then Ryder hit the Rough-Ryder leg-lariat for the win.

WINNERS: Ryder and Sheamus, at 16:27. The heat segment on Ryder was long, but in the end, Ryder gained more credibility with his pinfall over the United States Champion.

4 – TED DIBIASE vs. HEATH SLATER

Right after the bell rang to begin the match, Jinder Mahal spoke on the Titan-Tron. He chastised DiBiase for foregoing his family lineage to hang out in parking lots with commoners. Slater then attacked DiBiase from behind when Mahal was finished. Dropkick by DiBiase turned the tide. Suplex out of the corner for two. After Booker compared DiBiase to Tim Tebow, Cole got on Booker for not explaining who Tebow was. That sounds like it came from Vince McMahon, as Cole covered himself by saying he thought Booker said T. Boone Pickens. Sounds like Cole knew how absurd it was to ask who Tebow was, but I’m sure Vince has no idea. Slater worked the arm of DiBiase, giving him a greater challenge than DiBiase has had in recent weeks. Submission maneuver applied by Slater and DiBiase worked back to his feet. Back body-drop by DiBiase as the announcing at this point continued to devolve. DiBiase made his comeback and after the boomerang clothesline, sent Slater to Dream Street.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 4:51. Slater lasted longer than I expected, especially coming off a Wellness suspension.

5 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. RANDY ORTON vs. CODY RHODES vs. WADE BARRETT – FATAL FOUR-WAY TO DETERMINE #1 CONTENDER FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Orton and Barrett paired off and stayed in the ring, while Bryan and Rhodes fought on the outside. Rhodes tried to surprise Orton from behind, but Orton met him with a dropkick. Whip into the buckle by Orton, then Bryan followed with a running dropkick. Dueling chants for Orton and Bryan as they faced off. No physicality between the two before they went to break at 1:42.

The show returned at 5:06 of the match and all four men were back in the ring. It was only for a brief time, however, as Orton was thrown out by Barrett, who went after him and tossed him into the steel steps. Rhodes and Barrett then double-teamed Bryan in the ring. Orton snuck back in not long after and went to work on both heels. Pump-handle slam attempt, but Orton got out of it and Rhodes snuck up from behind and gave Orton a Russian leg-sweep. Bryan came back in and went after Rhodes with kicks. Barrett put Bryan on his shoulders and Rhodes came off the top with a clothesline, the old Doomsday Device. Barrett wanted a pin, but Rhodes broke it up and tossed Barrett out. They went to break at 8:59 of the match.

Back from the final break at 12:24 of the match. Orton was back in the thick of things, working against Rhodes and Barrett. Barrett laid in the knees with Orton stuck between the ropes. Running boot to the skull and Orton fell to ringside. Rhodes attacked Barrett after Barrett had gotten the best of Bryan. Beautiful Disaster kick on Bryan for a two-count at 13:50. Bryan back-dropped a charging Rhodes to ringside. Barrett reappeared and he whipped Bryan into the ropes, but Bryan dove through them and onto Rhodes at ringside. Orton hit his signature moves on Barrett, but Bryan broke up a pin. Kick to the head of Orton for two. Rhodes dropped Bryan across the top rope and he fell to the mats outside. Rhodes for a cover on Orton, only getting two. Face-first suplex by Rhodes on Orton. Crowd chanted “Randy” as Rhodes slowly climbed the top rope. Orton tripped him up and connected on a superplex. Barrett tried to steal the pin, but Bryan dove off the top with a headbutt to cancel the fall. All three men were down in the ring and Orton re-entered. Barrett was thrown over the top, as was Rhodes. Cole said Orton was turning his attention to the weaker man. Rope-assisted DDT to Bryan. Before he could hit the RKO, Barrett pulled Orton out of the ring and gave him a DDT. Rhodes tried to pin Bryan, but Bryan grabbed the arm and locked in his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Bryan, at 18:34.

They replayed the finish after the match, but then Rhodes attacked Bryan from behind. He turned around into an RKO. They played Orton’s music until Bryan got back to his feet, then they played his. Josh Mathews gave a hard-sell for Tuesday’s live Smackdown as the show went off the air with Bryan holding up his Money-in-the-Bank briefcase.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on November 28 2011, 04:01 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 11-24-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Kester's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article10021991.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Matt Morgan and Crimson squashed Mexican America in 1:54. Hernandez got sent to the floor early and spent the match selling at ringside.

Matt Morgan and Crimson worked their respective move sets on Anarquia before finishing him off with a double chokeslam.

2. Velvet Sky Brooke Tessmacher, and Tara defeated Angelina Love, Winter, and Madison Rayne in a Thanksgiving Thong Thunder Match in 9:51. The six women had a pose off during the first two minutes of the match.

The heels eventually attacked the faces and the fight was on. Winter took control of Tara, and they became the first two legal women…

Back from the break, Tara hit Winter with a standing moonsault before tagging in Tessmacher. Tessmacher used her stink face on Winter. Rayne tagged in and regained control for her team. The heels proceeded to work quick tags, keeping Tessmacher down.

Tessmacher got the hot tag to Sky, who quickly took out her heel opponents. The match broke down and all six women started to brawl with one another.

Mickie James ran down and stopped Madison Rayne from using her belt to hit Velvet Sky, and Sky hit Rayne with a butterfly facebuster for the victory.

3. Eric Young defeated Robbie E in 2:29. Robbie E assaulted the turkey suit to start the match.

Robbie E hit Young with a foreign object and got the pin, but Charles found the object afterwards and he restarted the match. Young hit a jumping piledriver on Robbie E and scored the pinfall victory.

Robbie E couldn't get up, so Robbie T had to wear the turnkey suit…

4. Jeff hardy, A.J. Styles, Mr. Anderson, and RVD defeated Bobby Roode Christopher Daniels, Bully Ray, and Jeff Jarrett in an eight-man elimination tag team match in 15:28. The heels took control early and isolated Mr. Anderson. When Anderson finally made the tag, RVD entered the match and was quickly slowed down by Immortal.

Anderson tagged back in and ran through his move set on Bully Ray. Ray, however, caught Anderson with an urinagi. Bobby Roode ran down, blind tagged Bully Ray, and covered Anderson for the pinfall. Bobby Roode pinned Mr. Anderson at 6:13.

Styles entered the match and tore into Bobby Roode. Roode responded with a low blow to get him intentionally disqualified. Bobby Roode DQed at 6:44.

Jarrett entered in Roode's place and attacked Styles as the show went to break…

Back from the break, Bully Ray and Jarrett hit a double suplex on Styles. Daniels tagged in and got caught with a Pele kick from Styles. Styles made the tag to RVD, who took out all three heels. RVD went for the Five-Star Frog Splash, but Angle pushed him off the top rope. Daniels covered RVD to get the pin. Christopher Daniels pinned RVD at 11:10.

The three remaining heels cornered Styles and started their assault. Daniels went for the BME, but Styles got his foot up to catch Daniels. Jarrett and Ray tried to attack Styles but ended up hitting each other.

Jeff hardy made his entrance and tagged into the match. He tore into Christopher Daniels and hit the Twist of Fate for a quick pin. Jeff hardy pinned Christopher Daniels at 14:46.

Jarrett ran in and Hardy immediately rolled him up into a small package for his second elimination. Jeff Hardy pinned Jeff Jarrett in 14:53.

Bully Ray hit a big boot on Hardy. Styles got a blind tag and hit Ray with a springboard cross body for the victory.

After the match, Bobby Roode hit Hardy in the back of the head with his title belt before hitting Styles with a second title shot. Bobby Roode yelled at a prone Styles as overly dramatic music played in the background.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 02 2011, 10:46 am
WWE RAW Results: 11-28-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_55559.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only, which fortunately does not include that gawd-awful Piper's Pit segment. Sorry I'm late with the reports since I've been sick as a ****! (use your imagination folks since the WWE can't! LOL!)

1 -- THE MIZ vs. JOHN MORRISON -- Falls Count Anywhere match

Morrison tackled Miz and landed early strikes, but Miz re-attacked the injured leg before wrapping Morrison's leg around the ringpost. Meanwhile, Cole noted R-Truth is going to be out of action for a "number of weeks" as a result of Miz's attack last week. In the ring, Miz used a kendo stick to continue the attack before Morrison landed a clothesline. Morrison then stole the kendo stick and blasted away at Miz. Miz tried to run away, but Morrison chased him down and landed more blows. Morrison made a cover on the floor, but Miz kicked out. Miz then crawled up the ramp to the stage. Morrison hobbled toward Miz, wound up for a stick shot, but Miz ducked and rammed Morrison head-first into the giant WWE logo on the stage. Miz followed by dragging Morrison to his feet and delivering a Skullcrushing Finale on the stage. Miz went back to the far-away look in his eyes before slowly rolling Morrison over. The ref checked on Morrison and determined he was out cold. He called for the bell, ending the match.

Post-match: Cole said Miz has eliminated another piece of dead weight. Another ref came out to check on Morrison, who sold being out cold. A medic came out again to check on Morrison as Miz walked away to the back. They went back to a replay of Miz's pre-match attack and the SCF on the stage to end Morrison's night. Back live, Morrison was placed on a backboard before Miz returned to the stage. Morrison was then taken off on a stretcher as Miz made his way to the ring. John Laurinaitis suddenly came out on-stage, took a look at Morrison, and then walked back. Apparently he was injured enough for Laurinaitis's taste? The medics carted off Morrison for his likely final WWE TV appearance.

In the ring, Miz slowly said it was R-Truth last week and it was John Morrison this week. Next week? "We'll see," he said. Miz said there's only one Superstar who can make this kind of impact. "That person is me," he said. "And I can do it because I'm...awesome." Miz continued to have a far-away look as he stared straight ahead. Another replay of Miz's attack on Morrison before Lawler described him as Ice Man.

WINNER: Miz at 3:26. That was the most-effective attention Morrison has received in months. Too bad it was on his likely final night, but the angle served its purpose as one final use of Morrison to build up Miz.

2 -- KELLY KELLY & ALICIA FOX vs. THE BELLA TWINS

The Divas were in the ring immediately after the break. Moments after the bell sounded, Beth Phoenix and Natalya came running to ringside, which distracted the faces and allowed the Bellas to take control. Soon thereafter, A. Fox scored the pin for the decisive win.

WINNERS: Fox & Kelly at 1:36. Blink and you missed it.

3 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. RANDY ORTON -- non-title match

Basic back-and-forth early on as the two men felt each other out. Meanwhile, Cole hyped Barrett's resurgence getting back to what he entered WWE for: making money and winning titles. Orton then delivered a big clothesline that sent Ziggler flying to the outside for a breather.

At the top of the hour, Ziggler slowly re-entered the ring as Cole reset the show, noting Piper's Pit with Cena as a graphic flashed on the screen promoting the live Smackdown tomorrow night on Syfy. Cole also plugged Miz taking out Morrison. In the ring, Ziggler delivered a dropkick to the mouth that sent Orton spilling to the outside. Barrett smirked as he watched Orton gather himself ringside. Back in the ring, Ziggler continued to punish Orton as Vickie encouraged the crowd to cheer Ziggler. The crowd responded with an "RKO, RKO" chant before Ziggler went up top. Orton cut him off, though, and delivered a big superplex that shook, but did not break the ring. Orton followed with a cover for a two count. They cut to the first break of the match at 7:10.

Back from break three minutes later, Orton and Ziggler were trading blows center-ring. Orton then delivered a punt to the chest followed by rapid-fire clotheslines and a powerslam. Orton did a crazed smile toward the hard camera before flashing a look toward Barrett. Orton wanted the elevated DDT on Ziggler and connected. Orton then entered That Place before teasing the RKO as the crowd roared. Ziggler saw it coming, though, and rolled out of the ring. Ziggler told Vickie they're leaving, then Orton spotted Barrett on the ring apron. Orton dropped Barrett with a dropkick off the ring apron, but Ziggler snuck up behind Orton with the Zig-Zag. Ziggler made a quick pin for the win.

Post-match: Barrett left the ringside area, satisfied with helping Ziggler beat Orton. On the floor, Ziggler did a handstand as Vickie re-announced him as the winner. Lawler grumbled about Ziggler being a show-off before Cole plugged the Punk-Del Rio title match still to come.

WINNER: Ziggler at 11:50. Solid action before the expected outcome of Barrett helping Ziggler, who said beforehand he would beat Orton. They're doing a solid job building up the Orton-Barrett program to (a) give Orton something to do that's important outside of the title picture and (b) re-build Barrett. (**)

4 -- ZACK RYDER vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Cole plugged Ryder's online petition to earn a future U.S. Title shot against Ziggler. Meanwhile, a second Mystery YouTube link flashed on the screen: http://youtube.com/user/second2012 (http://youtube.com/user/second2012) . Ryder and Swagger went back and forth before Ryder blocked a Swagger Bomb with his knees. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder and it was good for the win. Cole called it an "absolute fluke." Ryder pump-fisted with the crowd before leaving the ring to cheers. Meanwhile, Vickie was indignant ringside and Swagger pounded the mat with his fists.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:24. Pass the head check last week, get a win this week to "prove Cole wrong."

5 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- WWE Title match -- If Punk is DQ'ed, Del Rio captures title

Basic back and forth to start as Lawler talked up Punk-Del Rio having potential to turn into a great feud. Punk clotheslined Del Rio over the top rope to the floor at 2:30, then landed a dive on the outside. Cole sent the show to break with Punk in control.

Back from break, Del Rio was in control in the ring, working over Punk's left arm/shoulder. Del Rio continued to blast away at the injured area as they neared the top of the hour.

Del Rio remained in control of the action as the crowd became restless. Light "Where's our ice cream?" chant from some vocal males near arena microphones. Del Rio couldn't put Punk away, so he went for a top rope move, which Punk intercepted with a kick strike. Cole reset the show as the two men recovered in the ring. They came to their feet and started trading kick strikes. Punk won the exchange with a strike, then neckbreaker for a two count. Punk followed with a corner knee strike, but Del Rio blocked a bulldog with a fallaway arm snap for a two count. Del Rio followed with a German Suplex and bridge pin, but Punk kicked out just in time.

The action reset at 13:30 with a teased cross arm-breaker, teased GTS, and a single-arm DDT by Del Rio for a nearfall. Del Rio then tried to remove the top turnbuckle, but ref Robinson reprimanded him. Ricardo then slid a chair toward Del Rio, who tossed it to Punk, but Punk tossed it back to Del Rio and sold a chair shot. Ref turned around and saw Del Rio holding the chair and teased a DQ, but decided against it. Punk tried a surprise roll-up, but Del Rio kicked out. The crowd was hot for this exchange. Ricardo then hopped on the ring apron and distracted the ref. In the background, Punk dropped Del Rio into the exposed steel on the top turnbuckle, then scored a three count for the win when Robinson turned around.

WINNER: Punk at 15:27 to retain the WWE Title. Basic match early on, then a very hot ending with the crowd invested in the teased finishes involving the match stipulation. Laurinaitis not coming out in the post-match was odd, but apparently they'll save the follow-up for next week's Raw to either strip Punk of the title (and possibly contest it in a TLC or ladder match at the PPV) or just set up a title re-match at the TLC PPV. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 02 2011, 10:49 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 11-29-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_55591.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results and yes, Smackdown was on live Tuesday this week. If you missed it or need to torment your eyeballs again, it will air again in its normal Friday time slot.

1 – DIVAS MISTLETOE MATCH
After some brief, nondescript action, Alicia Fox was brought down after trying to reach the mistletoe. Soon after, one of the Bellas turned on the other, climbed the on the other’s back, and took down the mistletoe.
WINNER: Brie Bella, at :53. I would not have guessed that result.

2 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. JINDER MAHAL
Gabriel was already in the ring. Mahal did mic work on the way to the ring, decrying Christmas, saying people buy gifts with money they don’t have for people they can’t stand. I feel like I just heard a similar quote to that…maybe on the Colbert Report last night? By the way, it was just Mathews and Cole on commentary with Booker’s match later tonight. Mahal with a knee-lift to Gabriel, then a double under-hook suplex. Mahal draped Gabriel gut-first over the top rope. Cole and Mathews argued about whether Ted DiBiase has money anymore. Mahal whipped Gabriel into the turnbuckle, then DiBiase’s music hit. He came out wearing a Santa hat and a bag full of gifts that he handed out at ringside. Mahal knocked away a gift DiBiase tossed to him in a funny spot. STO by Gabriel on Mahal after the distraction. He went to the top and landed the 450 splash for the win.
WINNER: Gabriel, at 2:12. Good to see an actual lower card feud between DiBiase and Mahal.

3 – KOFI KINGSTON vs. TYSON KIDD
Low dropkick by Kidd for a near-fall. Hard back elbow caught Kingston coming off the ropes for a two-count. Cole mentioned that he was trending on Twitter. Both men were down at the 1:30 mark, and Kofi made a comeback when they got to their feet. Boom drop found the mark on Kidd’s midsection. Kidd rolled out of the ring when Kofi tried Trouble in Paradise. Dropkick by Kingston on the outside of the ring. Kofi took time to make fun of how Cole looks in his outfit. He talked about how ridiculous Cole looked and stole the headpiece, which allowed Kidd to attack him from behind. Kofi recovered and put Kidd back in the ring. He put on the Rudolf headgear and the red nose, then hit the flying cross-body off the top for the win.
WINNER: Kingston, at 3:33. Weird to have Kofi go after Cole like that, but it was a means to the end of getting the visual of him wearing the Rudolf garb while flying through the air. It wasn’t worth it.

4 – RANDY ORTON vs. DAVID OTUNGA – MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET FIGHT
Otunga was clotheslined to ringside early on. Otunga kicked Orton in the gut, but Orton came back with offense of his own. Otunga certainly looks the part, I’ll give him that. Otunga was thrown into a smallish Christmas tree at ringside. Oh, and there goes another. Cole said Orton was acting like a Grinch. Otunga fired back by driving Orton’s back into the apron. Orton regained control and sent Otunga head-first into the announce table. There was a tray of cookies there and Orton took a bite of one, then hit Otunga in the back with the cookie sheet. He put a wreath around Otunga’s neck, shouted “ho ho ho,” and sent him into another tree. Otunga was to be whipped again, but he countered and sent Orton into the stairs. Suplex at ringside. Before Otunga could use another weapon, Orton got a single-leg take-down and pounded away. Otunga ran up the ramp and from behind, Orton tossed a large gift at him, comically hitting Otunga right in the back of the head. Orton tossed Otunga into more decorations and trees on the top of the stage. Orton dragged Otunga back to the ring. He put Otunga’s feet on the apron and DDT’d him onto the ringside mats. Wade Barrett ran out and bounced Orton’s head off the ring post, then booted him in the face. Otunga was rolled into the ring to pin a fallen Orton, but he only got two. Otunga booted Orton in the corner Orton came back just after 7:00 in and hit all of his signature spots. He got down for the RKO, which hit the mark.
WINNER: Orton, at 7:36. Lots of bells and whistles to hide Otunga’s shortcomings and to continue the holiday theme of the show.

5 – ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS BATTLE ROYAL
Horny went under the ring to start. Darren Young was tossed nine seconds in, by Sheamus. One of the Usos was out at :24, also by Sheamus. Percy Watson and Curt Hawkins went at it. Hunico crotched JTG on the top rope and eliminated him at :51. Ted DiBiase was stomping on Tyler Reks. Sheamus was trying to toss NXT leader Titus O’Neil. Hawkins out via a Zeke Jackson press slam at 1:49. Jackson and Sheamus clobbered each other in the middle of the ring. Jackson charged Sheamus, but was back-dropped out at 2:31. Johnny Curtis jumped Sheamus, but was tossed at 2:42. Kingston took the other Uso out at 2:56. Kingston was then eliminated himself at 2:59. Yoshi Tatsu was clotheslined out at 3:12 by Tyson Kidd. Kidd headscisssored DiBiase out at 3:24. Hornswoggle grabbed Kidd and pulled him off the ropes to eliminate him at 3:31. They went to break at this point. Back at 6:48. It was down to seven superstars. Gabriel was teetering on the edge thanks to Mahal, who pushed him out at 7:12 when he tried to springboard back in. Sheamus is clearly the ringer here. Clash of the Titus by O’Neil on Reks. He celebrated, but was clotheslined out by Sheamus at 7:48. Sheamus fought off Slater, Mahal, and Hunico. Reks went after Sheamus, which was a mistake. Reks crawled under the bottom rope, but Sheamus went after him. The other heels ganged up on Sheamus outside the ring. They all worked together to take down the big man, throwing him into the barricade. The four went back inside the ring as Mahal tried to direct traffic. They all went under the ring to get Hornswoggle. Mahal put him in the ring as the heels surrounded him. Slater shoved him to the mat, and Hunico did the same. They kicked away at him and Cole made the point that they have to wear him down before they try to eliminate him. Reks and Mahal tried to toss him like a sack of potatoes, but Sheamus ran in to make the save. Reks out at 10:50, Hunico at 10:54, Mahal at 10:58. Slater was Brogue Kicked out at 11:07, leaving just Sheamus and Horny. Hornswoggle wanted him some of Sheamus, but Sheamus pointed to him and told him to get out. Hornswoggle pointed to Sheamus and told him to get out. Sheamus laughed and Hornswoggle kicked Sheamus in the shins. Sheamus picked Hornswoggle up and tried to slam him out, but Horny held on to the top rope and Sheamus couldn’t shake him off. Sheamus went to the apron to try to untangle Hornswoggle. He did, and ordered Hornswoggle out. Horny made a sad face as Sheamus tried to talk sense into him. Hornswoggle wanted a hug, but as Sheamus went in, Horny shoved him to ringside to win.
WINNER: Hornswoggle, at 13:34. Certainly a unique battle royal. I thought Sheamus would voluntarily leave and let Hornswoggle win – it was odd having Sheamus, the babyface, and Hornswoggle, the babyface, argue about who should win.

6 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. MARK HENRY – STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Formal ring introductions were handled by Chimel for this match. Cole relayed the message from Long that the winner of this match will defend against Big Show at TLC. Bryan tried to escape the cage early on, but Henry was able to bring him down. Bryan kicked at Henry’s legs, but Henry tossed him away. Henry sent Bryan into the side of the cage, then Henry squashed him against it. They went to break at 1:12 of the match. The show returned at 4:13. Henry was still in control. Henry shouted at Bryan that he had all day. Well, the show only has eight minutes. Nerve hold applied by Henry in the middle of the ring. Big knockdown by Henry. “Happy new year!” shouted Henry. He demanded the cage door be opened at 5:28. Bryan attacked Henry to prevent the win. Clothesline by Henry turned Bryan inside out. Henry knelt down and laid across Bryan for the cover, getting only two. Henry again asked that the door be opened, but Bryan grabbed Henry’s bad ankle. Bryan stomped the bandaged ankle over and over again. He worked over the leg on the ropes. Bryan tried to climb to the top of the cage, but Henry tripped him, crotching Bryan. Henry got a head of steam and clotheslined Bryan to the mat. A light “Daniel Bryan” chant. Henry couldn’t reach the cage door, but he stayed on offense and on a vertical base. Cole claimed that he felt sorry for Mark Henry. Henry limped around the ring and tried to slam Bryan but Bryan kicked the ankle again. He tried the LeBell Lock and hooked it. Henry rolled, breaking the hold. He tried to pick Bryan up by one arm, but Bryan locked in the ankle-lock, dragging Henry to the middle of the ring. Crowd really behind Bryan here, but Henry rolled through and kicked Bryan off. Bryan tried to climb out of the cage, but once again couldn’t. Henry took some people by surprise by scaling the cage, but Bryan hopped over him and got to the top. Henry pulled him back in by the arm. Bryan tried to hurricanrana Henry off the top rope, but couldn’t. He flipped himself back up and to the top of the cage again. Henry held onto the arm and headbutted Henry. Off the second rope, World’s Strongest Slam. Henry’s knees hit way before Bryan to the point that it looked like it could’ve seriously hurt Henry. Henry picked up the pinfall win.
WINNER: Henry, at 11:09.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 02 2011, 10:51 am
WWE NXT Results: 11-30-11

Yet another report courtesy through the good guys at PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55624.shtml) Per usual, only in-ring matches are reported here. Click the link to read the whole thing and as a prize, get lovely pop-ups.

1 - PERCY WATSON vs. TYLER REKS

Reks with early control, but Watson makes a fast comebackl On commentary, Hawkins claims that the cane is doctor-prescribed. Tyler Reks with a slick reversal in the corner to send Watson face-first until the turnbuckle. Hawkins says that they were underused and underutilized and unbooked, which is why they needed to invade NXT. Wow, the crowd is rallying behind Watson a bit. Reks goes into the ringpost to let Percy get on top. Watson with a series of big dropkicks and his overhead throw, and gets the crowd fired up, then his standing jump into a lateral press for two. Watson gets distracted by Hawkins, and Reks takes him down, and goes to the top, but Watson dropkicks him in mid-air for the win. Post-match, Hawkins ambushes him with the cane.

WINNER: Percy Watson in 5:00. Okay match, but not given enough time. These guys are all just treading water, waiting for a slot on the main roster to open up.

2 - YOSHI TATSU & TRENT BARRETA vs. TYSON KIDD & JOHNNY CURTIS

Both of these teams could go far. Curtis could make a good mouthpiece for Kidd and Kidd can teach Curtis a lot. Also, Tatsu/Barreta could be a super-hot tandem.

Tatsu and Curtis lead off, with Tatsu using his speed to get early advantage and bring Baretta in. Barreta with a running flip dive and some rollups, but Kidd distracts Barreta so Curtis can take over. Curtis looks heelishly arrogant choking Trent in the ropes, and tags in Kidd.

Kidd with a springboard guillotine leg drop, then corner stomps, and the usual heel corner work. Barreta with his corkscrew moonsault to get Kidd off of him, and they both tag out. Tatsu with an armdrag, dropkick, and a back body drop, then hard chops against the ropes. Striker reminds viewers of the action figure-maiming story. Tatsu to the top rope, but Curtis dodges the spinning heel kick. Curtis with a nasty-looking sit-out brainbuster for the win.

WINNERS: Curtis & Kidd in 8:00. That match needed another five to ten minutes, but they delivered in the ring. Curtis's finisher looks absolutely devastating.

3 - ALICIA FOX vs. MAXINE

Why does Maxine wear a nightie and garters to the ring? Then again, why does Alicia Fox wear a Tanuki suit to the ring? Maxine starts off strong with her power offense, but Alicia shoves her away, then jumps a corner charge, and transitions the jump into a sunset flip for two, which was slick. Maxine with hand thrusts to the stomach and tosses Alicia by the hair. Maxine with a basement dropkick for two, and gets frustrated. Maxine retains control and moves to a chinlock. Derrick Bateman and his mom come out to cheer her own. Maxine with a Dragon Sleeper, but she's distracted, letting Fox throw her off and immediately hit her finisher. Post-match, Maxine blows up on Bateman.

WINNER: Fox in 3:00. Maxine dominated someone who was breathing on #1 contender status a few weeks ago for all but ten seconds. Maxine's reversal into the sunset flip was really innovative, but Maxine did a good job at getting herself over as a power threat in the ring.

4 - TITUS O'NEIL vs. DERRICK BATEMAN vs. DARREN YOUNG - Triple Threat match, winner gets a Smackdown match

Titus has his old new music (or is it new old music?) back.

Titus clears out Young then hits a big powerslam on Bateman, but Young breaks up the pin. Young chips Titus, who no-sells and gets mad, then chops Young a number of times. Titus is absolutely huge compared to Young. Young goes up top, but Titus grabs him and throws him to the mat. Bateman breaks up the pin and beats down Titus in the corner. Bateman chops Titus, but Titus chops back. Bateman tries a running sunset flip, but Titus shakes it off, picks him up and throws him into Young, then kicks Young and clubs Bateman. Bateman rolls outside and O'Neil goes to work on Young. He throws Young outside the ring and starts to bark. Bateman approaches Young to arrange and alliance.

Back from the break, Young and Bateman are double-teaming O'Neil. Young eventually ends the alliance with Bateman, who tries a pin, then Titus gets up, clotheslines them both, and beats them both down a bit. Striker says that "Big Deal Titus O'Neil" is the best choice for Smackdown. Titus tries pinning Darren, but Derrick breaks it up. Eventually, Bateman and Young start going at it again. Bateman with a running mid-height dropkick to Young in the corner. Bateman goes to the top and Young crotches him, then meets him up top. Tower of Doom spot with Titus powerbombing Young superplexing Bateman, Titus tries the pin, but Young kicks out.

Young with the fallaway slam when Bateman interferes. O'Neil with the scoop slam for two, then calls for the Clash of the Titus. Young rolls to the apron, but Titus goes to the apron too. Young surprises O'Neil with a kick to the crotch, and lands a neckbreaker on the apron, and O'Neil rolls into the ring. Bateman dropkicks Young to the outside and steals the pin.

Post-match, Bateman asks Maxine to come out and says that they are going back to Smackdown where they belong. Maxine's music hits and she fails to appear. Instead, Tamina and JTG come out. Tamina says that Maxine packed up her stuff and left with Johnny Curtis. Bateman makes some hilariously over-done faces here, which is in-line with his over-the-top character. Hey, Derrick Bateman has some fresh stitches on his head. They end the show.

WINNER: Derrick Bateman in 10:00
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2011, 12:04 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 12-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_55657.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- THE POPE & DEVON vs. INK, INC. (SHANNON MOORE & JESSE NEAL w/Toxxin) vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (HERNANDEZ & ANARQUIA w/Rosita and Sarita) -- three-way #1 contender match to the TNA Tag Titles

The match started with a flurry of six-way action that spilled to the floor and involved the Knockouts assembled ringside.

Time for a Twitter plug - who's going to win the three-way Roode-Styles-Hardy main event? In the ring, Mexican America worked over Pope as Ink, Inc. watched, unable to get involved. Devon eventually took a tag and teed off on Anarquia. In the background, Neal tagged himself into the match and speared Hernandez, but walked into a spinebuster from Devon. Devon pinned Neal for the pin and the win. Tenay noted Devon & Pope get the title shot against Matt Morgan & Crimson at Final Resolution.

WINNERS: Devon & Pope at 5:07 to become #1 contenders. Standard tag action. Neal taking the fall was expected.

2 -- ODB vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Street Fight -- #1 contender match to Knockouts Title

The fight started on the entrance ramp as soon as Mickie made her entrance. They took a brief detour into the ring before taking the fight backstage. Around and around they went backstage before returning to ringside. In the ring, they traded nearfalls before ODB confidently picked up a chair to smash Mickie, but Mickie superkicked the chair into ODB's face for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Mickie at 6:56 to retain #1 contender status.

3 -- TV champion ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) vs. ROB VAN DAM -- TV Title match

Before the bell sounded, Taz about RVD's famous TV Title history in ECW, but without mentioning the letters. Robbie tried to taunt Van Dam early on, so RVD dumped him to the outside and posed in the ring. Van Dam then mocked Rob Terry and delivered Rolling Thunder to Robbie once Robbie returned to the ring.

RVD lost focus momentarily, allowing Robbie to take control of the match. RVD came back with a roundhouse kick to the face, but Robbie slipped Van Dam to the outside of desperation. Suddenly, Eric Young stormed ringside with possession of a fire extinguisher. Ref Hebner occupied himself with EY. Meanwhile, in the ring, Van Dam delivered a Five-Star Frog splash to Robbie. Daniels then snuck in the back door with Angel's Wings to RVD. Daniels draped Robbie on top of Van Dam, then Hebner returned to the ring to count Robbie's pin on Van Dam.

WINNER: Robbie at 4:03 to retain the TV Title. This one needed a screwy finish if RVD was going to lose to comedy heel act Robbie.

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES vs. JEFF HARDY -- three-way non-title match

Roode bailed from the ring and told Styles and Hardy to go ahead and fight amongst themselves. Styles didn't take the bait, so he dropped to the floor to confront Roode. Hardy came around the other side, which put Roode in the middle of a punchfest. The punchfest resumed in the ring after Roode tried to call for a time-out. Styles and Hardy then double-clotheslined Roode to the outside. On the floor, Styles and Hardy took turns measuring Roode for offense before they cut to break.

Back from break, Roode had Styles isolated in the ring. Hardy then tried to break up a pin, but accidentally popped Styles. Roode then went to work on Hardy before turning his attention to Styles again. Hardy came back with offense on Roode, then Styles. Roode was finally able to pit Styles and Hardy against each other, setting off a scrap as Roode rested on the outside. Styles won an exchange with a snap dropkick for a two count on Hardy. Hardy came back with offense for a nearfall of his own.

Roode picked his spot to re-enter and ram Styles into a ringpost to clear him out of the picture. Roode then went to work on Hardy. Roode took his time wearing down Hardy as Styles took a while to recover on the floor. Styles then came out of nowhere with a springboard forearm followed by a back flip into reverse DDT. Styles measured Roode for the Clash, but Roode blocked. Styles tried to come back with a springboard, but Roode shoved Hardy into the ropes to crotch Styles. Roode followed with a Fisherman Suplex for the pin, but Hardy made a desperation save.

With Styles out of the picture, Hardy made a comeback on Roode with successive offense. Hardy hit Twist of Fate, then wanted a top-rope Swanton Bomb, but Jeff Jarrett showed up through the crowd to crotch Hardy behind the ref's back. In the ring, Roode made a cover on Hardy and Styles was a hair too slow to break up the pin. Roode gets the win.

WINNER: Roode at 14:29. Solid TV main event, and it seemed more like the match people would pay to see - over Roode vs. Styles one-on-one - since TNA hasn't done enough to enhance Styles's title quest. TNA also ran the risk of weakening Hardy and Styles being unable to put away Roode in a two-on-one situation, but TNA figures Hardy & Styles are established enough where they won't suffer as TNA tries to build up Roode's credibility as a top heel. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 03 2011, 12:09 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 12-1-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_55659.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TED DIBIASE vs. HEATH SLATER

Ted with an early advantage including a big backbody drop. Ted goes to the second rope for double knee drops. Slater cheap shots DiBiase around the ref, and goes on offense. Ted eventually dodges a corner charge and lands an atomic drop and a running high knee for turn, then the turn around clothesline. This sets up Dream Street, but Slates escapes, and Ted tries again and lands it for the win.

WINNER: Ted DiBiase in 5:00. Sustained offense from Heath Slater = boring. Slater does a really good job bouncing around for folks to get them over and getting enough heat that the audience is happy to see him lose, but his offense is just lacking.

2 - SANTINO MARELLA vs. JTG

Scott Stanford hilariously says that this "should be a terrific match" as it starts. JTG with a headlock to start things off. Santino takes him down and spins on his back like a breakdancer. JTG takes advantage of Santino's trumpeting and begins a plodding assault. Santino starts to Hulk Up as JTG poinds his face into turnbuckles and punches him. Santino with punches, the split, hip toss, and sailor salute headbutt, but JTG gets his knees up. JTG puts Santino in the corner for the Mugshot, but Santino holds the ropes, prepares the Cobra, and lands it for the decisive win.

WINNER: Santino Marella in 6:00. JTG still isn't good at putting on entertaining or realistic offense; it just feels like filler until the finishing sequence.

3 - WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. PRIMO (w/Epico and Rosa Mendes)

Stanford explains that Mendes is managing Epico and Hunico. Well, I guess it gives her something to do. Primo outwits Kingston with an early armbar, but Kingston lands a pair of arm drags to get the advantage. Primo gets a break from the ref and uses it to reset and force Kofi to the mat, but Kofi reveerses into an armbar. It is neat to see Kingston with chain wrestling when paired with someone like Primo, he is so versatile. Primo with a headlock and a shoulder block to take Kingston down. Primo runs the ropes but Kofi hits a leaping back elbow, then a monkey flip out of the corner for two. Primo comes out of the cover fighting, but Kingston whiffs a roundhouse attempt and they cut to commercial.

Out of the break, Kingston is trying to fight out of a hold. Primo is on the ground as the crowd rallies Kofi to no avail. Primo's "filler offense" is very good; he always looks like he is trying to wear down his opponent and win a match, and doesn't overly rely on restholds while keeping up the pace. On the outside, Rosa plays the Vickie character. Kofi slips out of a suplex and turns it into a backslide for two, but Primo bounces right back. Stanford is doing a good job at filling in much-needed back-story for the heels. Primo tries a Camel Clutch and then stomps and feet in the corner. Primo mocks Kofi's call for the Trouble in Paradise, allowing Kofi to surprise him with a huracanrana to get some separation.

Kingston with punches and a dropkick, then his odd springboard crossbody for two. Superman punch, and Kingston hits the Boom Drop. Kingston calls for the Trouble in Paradise, but Primo ducks. Kingston with a springboard sunset flip, but it's only good for two. Kofi tries the springboard cross-body again, but Primo catches him and yanks him down into a Backtsabber for the win.

WINNER: Primo in 10:00. That's Primo's first win in who knows how long. I saw this live and I was entertained, and it played well on the broadcast, even though I knew the ending. That's a strong endorsement for a match. Primo is an extraordinarily undervalued asset. It's a shame that Kofi is in purgatory as Evan Bourne is suspended. I can definitely see some combination of Epico, Primo, and Hunico challenging Air Boom for the Tag Titles soon, and, if that is the case, I look forward to it. Then again, I harbor a fantasy that Brodus Clay will single-handedly win the Tag Titles after Johnny Ace enrages him enough with delays of his debut.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 07 2011, 11:29 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-5-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_55745.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- THE MIZ vs. RANDY ORTON -- WWE Title match qualifier for Miz

The bell sounded back from break and the two men circled each other before locking up. Cole plugged Twitter and another link flashed on the screen: youtube.com/user/lookwithin2012 . Miz showed aggression placing Orton on the mat with kicks and stomps before applying a reverse chinlock. Orton broke free with a suplex before landing successive clotheslines. Orton delivered a snap powerslam before setting up Miz for a DDT, but Miz blocked and dumped Orton over the top rope to the floor. Miz tried to follow up on the outside, but Orton delivered a snap powerslam on the floor. The ref was heavily mic'ed here, so you could see what was happening next.

Wade Barrett's music hit and Barrett stood on the stage to glare at Orton. Orton dragged Miz back into the ring, but then decided to chase Barrett up the stage to the back. The ref reached ten and Orton was counted out, giving Miz the win. Post-match: Orton tried to return to the ring to attack Miz, but Barrett re-emerged to jump him from behind. The mind games continue and Miz qualifies for the WWE Title match at TLC.

WINNER: Miz via count-out at 4:29.

2 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- WWE Title match qualifier for Del Rio

Daniel Bryan emerged back from break, sporting taped ribs. They replayed the Henry-Bryan steel cage match on the live Smackdown, where Henry beat Bryan to retain the World Title. Once the bell sounded, Del Rio targeted Bryan's ribs to look for a quick win. Bryan came back with a submission, but Del Rio flung Bryan across the top rope to continue focusing on the ribs. Del Rio then slapped on the cross arm-breaker and Bryan tapped out. Lawler excused Bryan's loss that he was injured from the cage match on Smackdown. A graphic confirmed the three men already set for the title match at TLC.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 1:50.

3 -- KELLY KELLY & EVE (w/Alicia Fox) vs. Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA

After the heels dominated early on, Kelly scored a quick pin on Natalya for the win. The faces celebrated on the outside, leaving the heels frustrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Kelly & Eve at 1:14.

4 -- JOHN CENA vs. ZACK RYDER -- WWE Title match qualifier for Cena; U.S. Title match qualifier for Ryder

The bell sounded and the two men shook hands before locking up. Ryder scored all of the early offense as the crowd picked up dueling chants of "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks." Meanwhile, Cole continued to play up the idea of the crowd reactions getting in Cena's head. Cena tried to make a comeback, but Ryder came back with a neckbreaker for a two count. Ryder followed a missile dropkick from the second rope for a close two count. Next was a Tornado DDT out of the corner for another two count. Ryder tried to finish off Cena with Rough Ryder, but Cena ducked and went through his comeback routine. Loud mix of boos and cheers as Cena set up You Can't See Me and a Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena couldn't hit the AA, though, and Ryder followed with the Broski Boot in the corner.

Ryder wanted the Rough Ryder again, but Cena stalled, causing Ryder to lose momentum. Cena then countered the RR into the AA for the pin and the win. They cut to a shot of a disappointed Ryder fan selling shock. Post-match: They showed Dolph Ziggler backstage selling relief over not having to face Ryder. In the ring, Cena tried to help Ryder to his feet, but Ryder shoved him away. Ryder said it was his one shot. Cena, selling inner conflict, told Ryder to hold on one second. Cena left the ring as the announcers plugged the four-way title match thus far. Dolph Ziggler is the last man to have a chance to qualify.

WINNER: Cena at 6:48. Solid, competitive TV match. Ryder stepped up to the moment after being given a spotlight match.

Backstage: Otunga was talking to Laurinaitis when Cena barged in. Cena told Otunga to get out...now! He told Laurinaitis if he wants to be a visionary, then give Ryder an opportunity at the U.S. Title. Cena said the kid worked his *** off and pushed him to the limit in the ring. He got in Laurinaitis's face that Ryder deserves another shot. Laurinaitis told him only if Cena gives up his WWE Title shot at TLC. Cena thought it over, said he's a ten-time WWE champion, and said he had to bust his *** like Ryder to get there. He said Laurinaitis and no one in the office gave Ryder a chance, and he's had his own chances, so he's agreeing. The crowd cheered Cena giving up his title shot. Cena shook Laurinaitis's hand, then Laurinaitis said Ryder has to win his match up next to get the title shot. Laurinaitis claimed to not know who Ryder's opponent is.

In-ring: Back from break, Ryder was in the ring with his music playing. David Otunga was on the apron giving instructions to Raw announcer Justin Roberts. He announced this will be a no count-out, No DQ match. Ryder took it in stride, then waited for his opponent. It wasn't Brodus Clay, rather, Mark Henry. Henry slowly walked out to the ring with the World Title belt over his shoulder. Ryder sold dejection as Henry made his way into the ring still sporting tape over his left ankle.

5 -- ZACK RYDER vs. World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY -- non-title, No DQ match -- U.S. Title match qualifier for Ryder

The bell sounded and Henry clubbed Ryder across the back. Shouldn't Cena came to the ring and help Ryder win since it's No DQ? Or, does he want Ryder to do it on his own? Henry trash-talked to Ryder that he doesn't deserve to be in his ring. Ryder tried kicking Henry in the face to gain an advantage before wrapping the injured ankle around the ringpost. Ryder followed with a Broski Boot, but Henry shoved Ryder away moments later. Cena then came down to ringside, which distracted Henry, but only momentarily. Henry clobbered Ryder, but Cena slipped into the ring, hoisted up Henry, and delivered the AA. Cena dragged Ryder on top of Cena and it was good for the win. Post-match: Lawler said Laurinaitis out-smarted himself. Ryder celebrated the U.S. Title shot before meeting Cena on the ramp. Cena shook Ryder's hand, then Cena held up Ryder's arm. Ryder, fired up, shouted that he finally got his shot.

WINNER: Ryder at 2:21 to earn a U.S. Title shot.

6 -- KEVIN NASH vs. SANTINO

Santino tried doing some stretching to prepare for Nash, but Nash dropped him with a knee to the gut. A sidewalk slam resulted in a two count. In the "trending now" box, Brodus Clay and Masked Kane were listed. Nash then dropped the straps and delivered a Jackknife that was good for a decisive victory. Post-match: Nash slowly approached the sledgehammer, grabbed it, and re-entered the ring to finish off Santino. Santino tried to crawl away, then Nash teased a sledgehammer shot, but pulled away. Nash raised his arms in victory before leaving the ring.

WINNER: Nash at 1:05. Basic booking to show that Nash is a capable wrestler and to place Triple H in jeopardy.

7 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. SHEAMUS -- non-title match -- WWE Title match qualifier for Ziggler

Ziggler did some "show-off" moves, bragged about it, and Sheamus cut him off with a big forearm to the face. Sheamus then slapped Ziggler across the face and brutalized him with repeated forearms to the chest. Ziggler came back with a forearm into a neckbreaker for a two count. Ziggler followed up with a guillotine leg drop for another nearfall. Sheamus then came back with multiple Polish hammer blows to the chest followed by repeated headbutts in the corner. A short-arm clothesline led to a Celtic Cross attempt, but Ziggler slipped out and caused Sheamus to eat the ringpost.

Suddenly, Zack Ryder's music played and Ryder stormed the ringside area. He teased entering the ring, but stopped short at the ring apron. It was enough of a distraction for Ziggler, who turned around and ate a Brogue Kick from Sheamus. Sheamus with the pin for the win. Post-match: They replayed high points of the match before returning live to show Ryder storm the ring and drop Ziggler with the Rough Ryder. Vickie screamed as Ryder pump-fisted with the crowd. Ryder, showing strong intensity, held up the belt in Ziggler's face before leaving the ring. He vowed to fist pump Ziggler's face.

WINNER: Sheamus at 4:59. Strong match-up. It felt like a Ravens vs. Steelers NFL match-up with a constant stream of hard-hitting action. Ryder also showed strong intensity in the post-match. He's advancing his character beyond just a "happy go-lucky, just glad to be here" babyface by adding some intensity to his act. Three strong performances in this segment by Sheamus, Ziggler, and Ryder.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2011, 03:13 am
WWE NXT Results: 12-6-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55807.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - THE USOS vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS

Hawkins and Jimmy start the match. Curt ducks a superkick after some early lock-up, then tags in Reks. Jimmy with a big slap and chops to send Tyler to the corner and Jey tags in. Emphatic headlock that Reks shoves out of, then a nice armdrag. Jey with a trip, then a diving headbutt for two. Jimmy tags in, then does his dance while Reks looks at him in rather bewildered. Reks charges, but gets taken down. Hawkins and Jey come in to brawl and the Usos clear Hawkins and Reks out of the ring. Jey rolls out and rolls Reks into the ring, but Hawkins distracts Jey (who Mathews is calling "Jimmy") and Reks gets the upper hand. Reks tags in Hawkins who goes to a side chinlock. They knock Jey to the outside and cut to commercial.

Back from break, Mathews is still calling "Jey" "Jimmy" and Reks and Hawkins are using rapid tags to keep him isolated. The crowd rallies and Jey lands a superkick to get some seperation. Mathews finally realizes which Uso is in the ring and Matt calls him out on it. Reks tags Hawkins, who cuts off the hot tag, and maintains control. Jey with a spinning elbow to knock Hawkins down, and they both tag out.

Jimmy clears Hawkins and takes out Reks. Reks accidentally hits Hawkins with a big boot, and Jimmy gets the one-man Alley-Us and a stickface for two. Reks dodges a charge to let Jimmy hit the turnbuckle face-first, then trips him and sends him into the turnbuckle. Reks rolls up Jimmy for two, then knocks him down with a clothesline. Reks pumps up, drawing some heat, and looks for the Burning Hammer. (Mathews is out to lunch and thinks that Reks wants a torture rack.) Jimmy slides out of the hold and turns it into a big DDT, and Hawkins breaks up the tag. Jey comes to life and tries to superkick Curt. Hawkins dodges, and Jey almost kicks Jimmy, but Jimmy catches the foot and slams it into Hawkins' face which was a cool spot. Jimmy lands the superkick on Reks, tags Jey, and Jey hits the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos in 11:00. Good match, as you'd expect from this group. The match was well balanced, and no one dominated too long to be boring.

2 - PERCY WATSON & TITUS O'NEIL vs. JTG (w/Tamina) & DARREN YOUNG

JTG and Percy to start things off. Percy pushes JTG to the corner. Striker, as par for the course, says that he finds Maxine's mom "strangely alluring" even though a minute before he said that she was dressed for a Bon Jovi concert circa 1986. Another lock-up and JTG transisitions into a headlock. Striker with more dated references. Watson with a scissors kick, and a butterfly suplex of sorts. Regal's influence? JTG tags in Young, who tries to go off the top rope but eats fists. Watson knocks him outside. Young with a side slam of sorts onto the apron, then tags in JTG. JTG slows things down. Mathews says that JTG has sucked the life out of Watson; I say that JTG has sucked the life out of the match.

Watson with an innovative counter, JTG whipped him into the ropes, Watson leaps over JTG sideways, and on the way down he schoolboys JTG for two. That was a great move, Watson is so agile for his size. JTG comes back with a clothesline for two. He then moves back to a chinlock. Watson counters a top rope move with a dropkick, and both men tag out. Titus lands punches, sends Young to the corner and kicks him some lets him out and whips him back into the corner. He then clears JTG from the apron, which gives Young a moment to recover. Young shoves O'Neil into the ropes, and he clears JTG from the apron on again. Big boot to Young and Titus barks and calls for the end. Shoulder breaker gets two, but JTG slips in to break it up. Watson comes in to take JTG out. O'Neil gets distracted by Tamina, so Young kicks him from behind and rolls him up for the win.

WINNERS: Darren Young and JTG in 7:00. Okay match, except for the parts that JTG dominated. Young is much more interesting than JTG is in ring.

3 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

There's a sole person in the audience chanting for Bateman. Curtis hides in the corner and then comes out strong. Bateman comes back and they trade chops. Curtis comes out of the corner with power and puts Bateman in it. Curtis throws Bateman into the turnbuckle hard, but Bateman chops Curtis on the way up. Bateman sends Curtis into the turnbuckle hard. Bateman's bleeding bad, and tries Ten Punches in the Corner but Curtis throws him off at five. Bateman sends Curtis outside the ring and Striker praises Bateman for not being rattled by the blood. Kick from Bateman to keep Curtis outside. Bateman tries a big running dropkick from the apron, but Curtis moves and Bateman flops on the ringside selling an elbow. Curtis approaches him with a sly look as they cut to break. Lousy time for a break, it just got hot!

Curtis with an armbar out of the break. Bateman is still selling the elbow. Curtis tortures the hand on the ropes some. Curtis with a neat move where he holds a wristlock while sitting on the turnbuckle, then jumping down and twisting in mid air. He covers for two. Armdrag then a wristlock. Curtis shouts, "I love you all," to get some heat. Bateman sells pain like childbirth. Bateman makes a comeback of sorts while favoring the hand, but Curtis sends him into the turnbuckle. He tries to whip Bateman but Bateman reverses and back body drops Curtis off the bounce.

Bateman hits a pair of clotheslines and a neckbreaker for two. Bateman with a runing dropkick in the corner, then goes up top. He lands a big crossbody block but Curtis rolls through and covers for two. Bateman with a backslide for one. They reset and trade chops. Bateman kicks Curtis in the gut and hits some sort of DDT for the win.

WINNER: Derick Bateman in 9:00. I liked this match, a lot. While it lacked the high-flying I usually prefer or highly-technical work, they acted like it was really personal. Bateman fought with heart and Curtis found to torture Bateman.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2011, 03:13 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-8-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_55846.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. TYSON KIDD

There's some super-hot back-and-forth to open the match as Striker and Mathews argue about whether or not Gabriel should be called "The Capetown Werewolf" based on whether he looks like he should be in the Twilight films. Mathews then complains about Striker's use of a Canadian accent when talking about Kidd. Back in the ring, Tyson Kidd comes out of a double knock-down with his ground 'n pound offense. Kidd with a seated abdominal stretch. Kidd stays on top as Mathews and Striker argue about whether or not Striker should start a Twitter account, and Kidd is back with the seated ab stretch. Striker with a series of bad werewolf jokes. Gabriel with a monkey flip to get some space. Gabriel with a series of kicks and a roundhouse kick, clothesline, and drop toehold to set up the 450 splash. Kidd gets to his feet, though, and charges Gabriel, who dodges. Kidd tries to clear Gabriel from the apron, but Gabriel slips between his legs and clotheslines Kidd out. Gabriel tries a baseball slide, but Kidd avoids it, then sidekicks Gabriel in the gut and gets on the apron and kicks Gabriel's chest.

Kidd throws Gabriel back into the ring and hits his springboard elbow drop. Kidd sells frustration and Gabriel recovers. Kidd charges the corner and Gabriel gets boots up. Gabriel heads for the top and Kidd dropkicks his knees, then rolls to the apron. Gabriel is still on the turnbuckle, and Kidd hits a springboard huracanrana from the apron, but Gabriel rolls through for a two count. Gabriel looks to the crowd for help. Kidd runs at Gabriel, who catches him with a tilt-a-whirl side slam of sorts that lands in front instead of the side. Gabriel to the top rope and lands the 450 splash for the win.

WINNER: Justin Gabriel in 7:00. Very good match. The match was hurt in the first half by the constant bickering between Josh Mathews and Striker, though. Matthews needs to stop worrying about what others are saying and focus on his job, which is supposed to be play-by-pay. Striker is a fan and a bit of a nerd and a dork, so Mathews needs to accept it instead of picking on it constantly. I'd say this is on Striker, but Mathews does it to everyone he works with.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

This is one of my mid-card dream matches. Nice to see both of these guys get some time, even if it is just Superstars. Swagger wins an early lock-up to force Barreta into the corner, but Barreta comes back with hard chops. Swagger reverses a whip but Barreta dropkicks his knee. Massive back body drop by Swagger, who then abuses Barreta on the mat. Swagger hits a takedown from the powerslam position, then into a chicken wing. Barreta gets knees to the ribs when he tries to get out. Swagger tries to throw him out, but Barreta skins the cat. Swagger notices and charges, but Barreta dodge and Swagger is half-through the ropes. Barreta kicks him in the chest.

Back in the ring, Barreta with an enziguri and the Gobstopper Knee for two. Barreta goes to the top looking for the corkscrew moonsault leg drop, but when Swagger comes after him, Barreta leaps over, then hits the ropes. Swagger catches him and plows him with the gutwrench powerbomb, then instead of getting the pin, he slaps on the anklelock and gets a quick tapout. Swagger drops the straps post-match as Barreta sells the ankle.

WINNER: Jack Swagger in 4:00. I would have liked to have seen this much go a bit longer, but Swagger desperately needs credibility. Since Evan Bourne is currently a bit higher on the ladder and Morrison is out, Barreta makes perfect sense. Swagger showed some fire that's been rare since his ECW run - submission holds that look like they would rip a limb off a person, intensity, and refusal to slip into predictable patterns. Someone lit a fire under Jack.

3 - MASON RYAN vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Pre-match, McIntyre sits on the announcing booth showing anger. He jumps on Ryan for a headlock, but Ryan escapes and uses a shoulder tackle to take Drew down. McIntyre with kicks and a wristlock attempt, but Ryan takes him down. Ryan with his "ox in the mud" offense. McIntyre regains control and pushes Ryan around. Scott Stanford puts Mason Ryan in a "celebrity trifecta" of Welsh pop culture sensations with Anthony Hopkins and Tom Jones, and Mathews decides to mock him. McIntyre on sustained offense. Ryan finally comes back with a clubbing blow to the face, then a high knee in the corner followed by a big boot for two. Ryan tries a powerslam but Drew slips out and kicks Ryan's legs. McIntyre to the top turnbuckle but Ryan catches him, applies a full nelson, and kind of tosses him on the ground and gets the pin.

WINNER: Mason Ryan in 5:00. I still can't believe they cut Chris Masters and kept Mason Ryan. Masters had the same build, but much more charisma, significantly better ring skills, and was established with the audience. Again, Mathews spent more time making his boothmate look bad instead of calling the match.

4 - WWE tag champion EVAN BOURNE vs. EPICO (w/Primo and Rosa Mendes)

Short amount of chain wrestling with neither man holding the advantage. Bourne eventually with some holds, then runs the rops and hits a dropkick. Bounre with paid kicks and a dropkick for two. Epico with a forearm to the back, a powerslam, and the Camel Clutch. Bourne slips out and puts on a Camel Clutch of his own. Bourne rolls the Clutch through into a cover for two. Borne tries to put Epico into the turnbuckle but Epico blocks and does it himself. Bourne with a low kick followed by a bulldog to the kneeling Epico. Epico with a wristlock to slow it down, Bourne arm drags out, then arm drags again into an armbar. Bourne sends Epico over the ropes to the apron, but Epico swings back. Bourne ducks the punch and kicks Epico to the ringside. Primo and Mendes check on him, and Bourne measures them for a springboard move. Epico staggers on the outside, Bourne tries the double knees from the top rope but the aim is a bit off so he turns it into a clothesline.

Boune with a high knee to Epico for two. Epico turns it around and hits a pair of belly-to-back suplexes and then a German suplex, slow cover for two. Epico with a backbreaker transitioning into a stretch. Epico picks up Bourne and stretches him over his own back, but Bourne won't give up. Bourne gets out with an arm drag. Epico charge but eats turnbuckle. Bourne with kicks, then a running huracanrana. Bourne with high kicks and the jump kick for two. Epico grabs Bourne for the Backstabber, but Bourne turns around and hits a jumping knee to the jaw for two.

Back elbow from Epico catches a charging Bourne in the corner. Epico to the top but Bourne with a snap huracanrana for two. Bourne to the top looking for Air Bourne but Primo distracts him long enough for Epico to recover. Bourne leaps over Epico, whiffs a roundhouse, and Epico catches him with the Backstabber for the win.

WINNER: Epico in 9:00. This was a very good cruiserweight match. Epico moves like a seasoned veteran, and, while not quite as fluid as Primo, he doesn't look out of place in the ring. I am looking forward to the inevitable Tag Title match between Air Boom and Primo & Epico. Bourne's suspension doesn't seem to have hurt his in-ring game, and the long match gave me hope that WWE hasn't cooled on him despite the loss.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2011, 03:16 am
TNA Impact Wrestling results: 12-8-11

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Kester's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/TNATVreports/article10022213.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1. Abyss defeated Samoa Joe in 7:22. The two men traded control several times before the show went to commercial…

Back form commercial, Samoa Joe was in control and working though his move set. Immortal ran out and attacked Samoa Joe. The referee was distracted and Abyss hit a chokeslam for the win.

After the match, Abyss hit Scott Steiner with a Black Hole Slam. Bully Ray ran away from Abyss.

2. Mickie James defeated Madison Rayne in 4:03. Rayne took an early advantage when she attacked James from behind. Rayne tried to choke out James with a sleeper.

Rayne hit a suplex and rolled it into a neckbreaker for a near fall. Moments later, James hit a very sloppy jumping DDT for the win.

3. Garret Bischoff defeated Gunner in 1:12. Gunner immediately tore into Garret and he began working over his arm. Gunner started talking some trash and Garret rolled him up for the quick win.

Gunner assaulted Garret after the match and he set garret up for a piledriver. Eric ran out and called Gunner off before removing the floor mat to have Gunner finish the piledriver.

4. Gail Kim beat Traci Brooks in 2:08. Brooks laid down for a two-count and then proceeded to destroy Gail Kim.

Madison Rayne ran out and clocked Brooks with her Knockouts tag title and Kim covered Brooks for the win.

5. AJ Styles and Jeff Hardy beat Bobby Roode and Jeff Jarrett in 13:24. Hardy and Styles attacked before Borasch could finish his introductions. How rude.

The men brawled on the floor and for some reason the ref wasn't making a count. The match eventually made its way to the ring and Styles tweaked his knee.

Back from the break, Hardy was working over Roode. Styles tagged in and took out both heels until Roode went after Styles' injured knee. Jarrett and Roode worked quick tags to weaken Styles.

Styles managed to hit a Pele Kick on Roode. Hardy and Jarrett got involved and the two men brawled to the back. Styles managed to roll Roode up for the surprise pin.

Roode attacked Styles after the match. He dragged him all over the ringside area attacking the injured leg. Cue the overly dramatic music and Impact went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 11 2011, 03:16 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-9-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_55869.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – WADE BARRETT vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON – BEAT THE CLOCK CHALLENGE

Mathews explained that Barrett and Randy Orton would get Beat the Clock Challenge matches tonight. Whichever man wins his in the quickest time will get to decide the stipulation for their match at TLC. The options are tables match, ladder match, or chairs match. Shoulder knock-down for a near-fall by Jackson. Cole noted that if Jackson wins tonight, Orton will only have to win his match later, regardless of the time. Barrett was sent to ringside just over a minute in. Barrett turned the tide and sent Jackson shoulder-first into the ringpost. Cole and Rhodes teamed up against Mathews on commentary. After a chinlock and a pump-handle slam, Barrett got a two-count. They went to break at 3:18 of the match.

Back at 6:14. Jackson came back with his bodyslam drill, then tried the Torture Rack. Barrett countered and went for Wasteland. Jackson got out and Barrett connected on the Boss Man Slam for the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 7:53. The announcers were too busy putting down Booker T. and talking about Barrett vs. Orton to really touch on the past these two men had together.

2 – ZACK RYDER vs. HEATH SLATER

No entrance for Slater. The piped-in crowd reactions have been really obvious throughout this show. It’s almost TNA-like in how constant the buzz of the “crowd” has been. Slater sent Ryder chest-first into the buckle, then clotheslined him from behind. Ryder turned the tide and put Slater down in the corner, then delivered the Broski Boot. Rough Ryder leg-drop and Ryder picked up another win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 1:25. Good time for a convincing Ryder win, as he lost to Cena on Raw and then only won again with Cena’s assistance.

3 – TED DIBIASE vs. JINDER MAHAL

Ah, Lillian being back means a return to “Ted Dibi-Aussie!” During his entrance, they showed DiBiase costing Jinder Mahal his match last week against Justin Gabriel. Mahal did an inset interview during his entrance. He said DiBiase made a priceless mistake last week, and now faces the ramifications. Rhodes has been absent on commentary since his attack on Bryan, by the way. Mahal ran into a big boot in the corner, but tripped DiBiase off the second rope. Neck-breaker for a two-count. Back elbow by Mahal. Cole continued to rant and rave, making me wish I could mute this show. Slingshot clothesline by DiBiase, but he was sent into the turnbuckle by Mahal. High knee found the mark. Small package out of nowhere by DiBiase for the win.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 2:53. This was probably the appropriate time for the first one-on-one match between the two, and based on the finish, I’d imagine the feud isn’t over.

4 – DAVID OTUNGA vs. SHEAMUS

It was all Sheamus early on, but Otunga connected on a nice clothesline. Only a one-count after a few elbowdrops. Otunga stayed aggressive with Sheamus, but Sheamus had had enough. He turned things around in the corner and stomped Otunga, then landed a short-arm clothesline. Brogue Kick and a beauty.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 2:56. I’m curious to see where Otunga’s WWE career will be one year from now.

5 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. CODY RHODES

Bryan landed a few kicks after the opening bell, but Rhodes quickly went after the taped ribs of Bryan. Running forearm grounded Rhodes. Rhodes countered with a front suplex for a two-count at 1:08. Suplex by Rhodes, but Bryan snuck out the back and to the apron. Bryan was then whipped into the ring post. Cole continued screaming at Bryan. They went to break at 2:33 of the match.

Upon return, they showed Cody’s continued onslaught during the break. Mathews attempted to defend Bryan, but Cole wasn’t having it. Rhodes was back-dropped to ringside by Bryan. Suicide Dive took out Rhodes, but he also collided with the ring barrier. Bryan flew through the air, but missed a splash, as Cody moved. Booker’s music played and he rushed the ring, attacking Rhodes, causing a disqualification.

WINNER: Rhodes, via DQ, at 9:50. Michael Cole is the absolute worst. I’m sorry, but this Smackdown, and this match, has once again been dragged down by Vince McMahon’s favorite announcer. And McMahon deserves the blame for letting this “gimmick” continue to drag on.

6 – RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – BEAT THE CLOCK CHALLENGE

A ladder, table, and chair were positioned in the aisle near the ring. A graphic showed Ryder vs. Ziggler at TLC for the US Title. Orton tried to finish it early with a kick, to no avail. Suplex for a fall attempt as well. With a minute gone, Orton stared at the Titan-Tron, which showed the amount of time left for Orton to defeat Ziggler. Clothesline out of the corner, then a jumping knee-drop by Orton for only one. Ziggler came back with a fameasser for a near-fall. He mounted Orton and worked the arm. Ziggler wore Orton down during the middle portion of the match, adding a bit to the drama. Crowd chanted “Randy” as Orton struggled to get to his feet. Neck-breaker by Ziggler for two at 4:19. Orton met Ziggler on the top rope and landed a superplex. That has become a regular part of his repertoire as of late, it seems. Orton began to feel a sense of urgency with about 2:00 left. Back-breaker for two. Ziggler tried to avoid Orton, then went for a Zig Zag, which was countered. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton. Only a two-count though. Ziggler slipped outside the ring, where Orton clotheslined him. He tossed Ziggler back in, but Vickie Guerrero hopped up on the apron to distract the ref. Out of nowhere, Barrett ran to ringside and sent Orton head-first into the ring post. The ref’s count reached nine before Orton slid into the ring. Ziggler charged, but Orton RKO’d him and got the win with two seconds to go.

WINNER: Orton, at 7:51.

Barrett gave Orton his side slam inside the ring. He congratulated Orton for winning and being able to choose the match. But first, he wanted to make his own suggestion. He threw Orton to ringside and tipped over the ladder. He then got rid of the chair. He tried to give Barrett Wasteland through a table, but Orton countered. Orton went for a powerbomb, but Barrett got away and pushed Orton into the stairs. Barrett retreated up the ramp before Orton could jump him. Vickie Guerrero was making a fuss in the background…it turned out Ziggler was recovering from the RKO on the stairs. Orton stared at Barrett, still atop the ramp, and powerbombed Ziggler through the table. Cole said it appears Orton has made his choice. Is putting someone through a table a legally binding way to opt for a tables match? Close-up on Orton’s icy stare as they faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 12 2011, 02:05 pm
TNA Final Resolution PPV Results: 12-11-11 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_55904.shtml)

1 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS
 
Feeling-out process to begin the match before Daniels scored with consecutive offense. Van Dam came back with consecutive armdrags into a leg sweep for a two count. Van Dam took his time posing for the crowd before returning to the corner to wear down Daniels. The match moved to the ring apron, where Daniels shoved RVD off the apron into the ringpost to take control of the match. Daniels then played to the camera by mocking Van Dam's thumbs-to-shoulders pose.
 
Van Dam came back with a roundhouse kick and Rolling Thunder for a two count before landing another roundhouse kick out of the corner. Van Dam went for a Five-Star Frogsplash, but Daniels moved and scored with a spear for a two count. A palm thrust from Daniels also resulted in a nearfall. The fight moved to the top turnbuckle, where Van Dam blocked offense before shoving Daniels to the mat. RVD then hit the Five-Star Frogsplash and made the cover for the win. (Although, Daniels was rolling around clutching his ribs, so he actually lifted his shoulders in-between the two and three.) Van Dam celebrated the win nevertheless as Daniels rolled out of the ring. Daniels complained on the outside about kicking out.
 
WINNER: RVD at 10:01. Fine opening match. Enough to get the crowd involved, but not memorable beyond its place on the card. (*3/4)

2 -- TV champion ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) vs. ERIC YOUNG -- TNA TV Title match
 
Before the bell sounded, EY did some comedy on the outside locking up with each fan on the front row. Terry had enough and tried to get Young into the ring to start the match. Meanwhile, Robbie's music rolled all the way through. EY then pulled down his shorts to reveal his wrestling trunks before charging the ring to officially start the match. The match quickly moved to the floor, where the numbers caught up to Young. Back in the ring, Robbie wore down Young while mixing in some poses for the hard camera. Meanwhile, Taz noted he was still thinking about Thanksgiving. Next was a reference to EY's head being the size of a small prop plane engine.

Robbie took too much time on a corner attack, allowing Young to rally and Hulk Up. Young then went up top and delivered a big elbow drop for a two count. Robbie regained control moments later, then Rob Terry hopped up on the ring apron for a conversation with the ref. Things came to a screeching halt as a result, then Terry suddenly entered the ring for a spot that forever choking Young in the corner. Robbie then tried to charge Young, but landed in Terry's crotch for some laughs. Young tried a Superman Double DVD Driver, but Terry and Robbie fell off his shoulders. Young then dropkicked Terry to the outside, but took Robbie's finisher for the pinfall. Robbie retains the TV Title.
 
WINNER: Robbie E. at 7:32 to retain the TV Title. Comedy match that belonged on TV and way over-booked for the second match on the card. Tenay and Taz matched the tone by cracking jokes throughout. (1/2*)

3 -- TNA tag champions MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON vs. DEVON & THE POPE -- TNA Tag Title match
 
Crimson dominated Pope early on, then Morgan asked for a tag and received one. The crowd cheered as Morgan entered the ring before Devon tagged in. Morgan and Devon circled each other before Morgan used his size to block Devon's offense. Morgan and Crimson then double-teamed Pope when Pope tagged in. The face tag champs continued to wear down Pope as Devon tried to encourage Pope to keep fighting. Pope then blocked a sideslam and landed an awkward DDT to create space. Devon and Crimson then tagged in for their respective teams.
 
Devon scored with successive offense before landing a top-rope diving headbutt. He then cleared a double-team before slamming Crimson for a close two count. Suddenly, Pope came off the top rope with an elbow, but Morgan broke up a pin. Morgan and Devon kind of collided mid-ring, then Crimson and Morgan hit a double chokeslam on Devon for the pin and the win. Post-match, the tag champs celebrated while Pope just shook his head hanging out with Devon's sons ringside. Devon then confronted Pope, who walked off, leaving Devon to question his sons.
 
WINNERS: Morgan & Crimson at 9:40. Okay match. A bit awkward at times, but fine for advancing the Pope-Devon feud, which will apparently spill over to 2012. (*1/4)

4 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. KID KASH -- X Division Title match
 
The bell sounded and Aries did some acrobatics to show off a la Dolph Ziggler. Aries then taunted Kash with a slap to the face before snapping off a textbook dropkick for a two count. They followed with a rapid-fire sequence of nearfalls before taking the match to the outside. On the floor, Kash missed with a chop and his hand smashed the ringpost. Aries then ripped the title belt away from So Cal Val and tried to use it on Kash, but Kash ducked. They attempted some comedy by exchanging pinfalls using the ropes for leverage that the ref easily saw. Eventually, Aries regained control and landed a flying dive on the outside that sent Kash into the guardrail.
 
Back in the ring at 6:00, Aries scored with a neckbreaker to continue the offensive assault. Aries appeared to be knocked loopy for a second when the two men collided and Aries fell to the mat like a tree in the woods. Aries recovered and went for a top-rope move, but Kash crotched him. Kash then went up top, but Aries crotched him to return the favor. They set up a frightening top-rope move that saw Aries counter a powerbomb with a mid-air huracanrana. Tenay noted the crowd doesn't like either wrestler, but they appreciated the effort on the top turnbuckle.
 
Aries and Kash reset with a chop exchange before Aries landed a suplex. Aries then ate a boot to the mouth before Kash called for the end. Kash wanted a double underhook, but Aries blocked. Aries then pulled out a foreign object from his trunks, which the ref saw. Kash then pulled out a foreign object, which the ref saw. Next, Aries handed the X Division Title belt to Kash, which the ref also saw. This drew laughs from the crowd as the ref reprimanded Kash. In the confusion, Aries caught Kash with the brainbuster suplex for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Aries at 12:46 to retain the X Division Title. From an excitement and action standpoint, this was easily the best match of the show thus far. The booking was questionable with comedy spots in a heel vs. heel match, but they did use the past and "no honor among thieves" theme to enhance the story. (**1/2)

5 -- Knockouts champion GAIL KIM vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match
 
Gail dominated early on before the two former WWE Women's champions exchanged submission holds. Gail nearly forced Mickie to tap to the stretch muffler submission, then Mickie started to mount a comeback, so Gail bailed from the ring. Gail feigned leaving the match with her title, but Mickie chased her down and threw her back into the ring. Madison Rayne then ran down to ringside to nip at Mickie's heels while the ref was preoccupied, which was enough of a distraction for Gail to score her Eat Defeat finisher for the win.
 
WINNER: Gail at 7:48 to retain the Knockouts Title. Better-than-usual PPV Knockouts match, but underwhelming considering the names in the ring. The crowd was taken out of this PPV a while ago and they didn't come back for this one.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 12 2011, 02:05 pm
6 -- KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM
 
Angle and Storm started with basic exchanges to feel each other out. The action moved to the floor, where Storm high-fived a birthday boy on the front row he referenced in his pre-match promo. Storm then walked into a drop toehold that sent Storm face-first into the ring steps. Back in the ring, Storm sold the concussion and Angle went to work on Storm's upper body. Angle continued to focus on Storm's head, drawing concerned comments from Tenay and Taz about Storm's condition. Angle applied a reverse chinlock and Taz asked for the ref to end the match, but Storm held on. Storm and Angle then traded bombs before Storm delivered a desperation jawbreaker into backstabber for a two count.
 
At 11:00, Angle stopped Storm's momentum with a belly-to-belly suplex for a two count. Angle then stalked Storm for a series of German Suplexes, but Storm elbowed out. Angle flowed into the anklelock, though, before Storm kicked Angle away to escape. Storm then missed with a clothesline and Angle delivered three Germans. Angle made a cover, but Storm kicked out. Suddenly, Storm had enough energy to hoist up Angle for the Eye of Storm that resulted in a two count. Storm inexplicably tried a top-rope move, and Angle grabbed him to deliver a belly-to-belly suplex for another two count.
 
Angle dropped the straps and called for the Olympic Slam, but Storm countered with an armdrag. Angle blocked the Last Call superkick, then tried the anklelock. Storm escaped again, though, before Angle ate the ringpost. Storm then dropped Angle face-first into the ring apron with a modified DDT. Back in the ring, Storm measured Angle for a superkick, but Angle easily countered into the Olympic Slam. Angle covered, but Storm kicked out before three. Angle tried to follow with a moonsault, but missed and his head bounced hard off the mat. Storm then fired up the crowd for a superkick and connected. Storm made the cover and it was good for the win. Afterward, Storm signaled to Angle that he's 2-0 against him.
 
WINNER: Storm at 17:48. Good PPV match. Storm needed a strong victory to continue establishing him as the most marketable face in the promotion. Angle was conservative during the match, which was understandable since the focus was on Storm's "concussion" and whether Storm could pull out a victory with the deck stacked against him. (**1/2)

7 -- JEFF HARDY vs. JEFF JARRETT (w/Karen Jarrett) -- steel cage match -- Karen handcuffed to Sting ringside -- loser (Hardy or Jeff/Karen) leaves TNA -- Hardy receives TNA Title shot at Jan. PPV if he wins
 
"Hardy, Hardy" chants once the bell sounded to begin the cage match just before the top of the third hour. Early in the match, Jarrett applied a figure-four leglock, which Hardy fought before grabbing the ropes for a break. Jarrett then went against what he said pre-match by trying to escape the cage, but Hardy blocked to keep the match going. Jarrett tried to escape again, but Hardy crotched Jarrett. The two men traded bombs before Hardy hit Twist of Fate center-ring. Hardy didn't make a cover, though, and decided not to escape the cage. He then considered a top-rope move, but opted for a second Twist of Fate. No pin attempt again. Instead, Hardy went all the way to the top of the cage and could have escaped, but opted for a huge Swanton Bomb, which he missed when Jarrett moved.
 
The cage door was opened for Jarrett to escape through, but Hardy pulled him back inside the cage. Hardy blocked Jarrett's escape a second time before landing a slingshot dropkick using the cage door like monkey bars. Next, there was a spot where Hardy accidentally bumped into Sting and Karen ringside. Karen then grabbed the key out of Sting's pocket and uncuffed herself to help Jarrett, but Hardy kicked out of a pin attempt. Karen tried to give Jarrett a guitar next, but Sting woke up and yanked it away from Karen. In the confusion, Hardy spun Jarrett around to hit the Twist of Fate. A three count gave Hardy the win.
 
Post-match: Sting gloated about Hardy's victory before entering the cage to address Jeff and Karen. Sting told them that someone is getting fired in four days on Impact Wrestling. Karen freaked out and Jarrett did bug-eyes to sell the moment. Meanwhile, Hardy gets a TNA Title shot next month at Genesis.
 
WINNER: Hardy at 10:20 to become #1 contender. Basic cage match that came across more like an angle than a match. As expected, pay customers have to wait for the free show to find out the result of one of the top matches. (*1/2)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match -- 30-minute Iron Man match

Champ and Challenger started with basic holds to set a methodical pace stretching out 30 minutes. Styles upped the pace with a quick sequence of moves. Roode then slipped to the outside for a breather and there was a nice camera shot of a big scoreboard graphic hanging over the fans on the hard camera side. There were no close falls after eight minutes, then the two men traded rapid-fire pin attempts. Styles grabbed a headlock to slow down the pace and Taz predicted a 1-0 final score. Styles began selling the leg injury, then Roode clipped Styles from behind for a pinfall.

*** ROODE 1, STYLES 0 at 10:02 ***

Taz and Tenay continued to focus on a stacked deck against Styles by suggesting Styles's injury could prevent him from scoring an equalizing fall. Styles tried to fight back, but Roode continued to focus on the leg. Styles found himself in a half-Boston Crab, but clawed his way toward the bottom rope for a break. Roode followed with a figure-four and Styles tried to fight the hold, but eventually tapped out.

*** ROODE 2, STYLES 0 via submission at 15:24 ***

Roode took his time strutting around the ring in complete control of the match. Roode then approached Styles, but Styles kicked him in the shoulder. Styles followed with a dropkick to the shoulder. Styles, trying to play the role of Tim Tebow facing a deficit in the fourth quarter, applied a Crossface submission. Roode fought the hold momentarily before tapping out.

*** ROODE 2, STYLES 1 via submission at 17:37 ***

Styles went back to work on Roode's shoulder with a submission, but Roode escaped to reset the action. Styles followed with right hand strikes, but walked into an elbow strike, followed by a left-arm clothesline from Roode. They reached the 20-minute mark with Roode approaching Styles for a follow-up move, but Styles quickly executed a cradle pin for a fall.

*** ROODE 2, STYLES 2 at 20:09 ***

The match reset with Styles selling an injured leg and Roode selling an injured shoulder. Roode started the final ten minutes in control of the action before Styles pulled out a signature back flip into reverse DDT. Styles tried to follow with a springboard 450 splash and he connected. Styles made a cover and it was good for a fall to take the lead.

*** STYLES 3, ROODE 2 at 23:00 ***

After the fall, Styles sold intense pain in his leg. He remained in control of the match, though, and tried another armbar submission, but Roode blocked. Styles yanked Roode's arm across the top rope, then tried a sunset flip, but Roode blocked, trapped Styles's shoulders to the mat, grabbed the ropes for leverage, and scored a pin with the ref not looking at Roode's hands.

*** STYLES 3, ROODE 3 at 25:00 ***

After the fall, Styles blasted Roode with right hands to sell frustration after Roode cheated to even the score. The action then moved up top, where Styles scored with an armdrag taking Roode clear across the ring. At 27:00, Styles followed with a backdrop suplex before Roode kicked Styles at the knee. Roode tried to follow with a Fisherman Suplex, but Styles countered with a cradle for a nearfall. Styles then hit the Pele Kick and fired up the crowd. He wanted the Clash, but Styles's knee buckled and he fell backward on the mat. Roode, with a bloody nose, rolled out of the ring at 28:30. The ref began counting Roode, then Styles came flying over the top rope with a flip dive that put both men on the floor.

With one minute to go in regulation, both men were selling the effects on the outside. Styles checked the clock, then rolled Roode back into the ring. Roode stood up, saw the clock, and bailed out of the ring. Styles then chased Roode around the ring and Roode continued to bail from the ring before the clock expired. Jeremy Borash announced the match is a 3-3 draw, so Roode keeps the World Title. Taz said it can't end like this. Tenay said this was all about survival for Roode. Roode held up his title belt and told Styles the belt is his. The crowd chanted for five more minutes as Styles called out for Sting, who apparently called it a night after the cage match. Roode declared himself the champ as he hugged the title belt. The credits came on the screen, ending the PPV with Styles selling frustration in the ring and Roode declaring that no one can take the title from him.

WINNER: Draw at 30:00. Good action and drama throughout, but not exactly a satisfying finish for people paying money to see a winner and a loser in a PPV main event. (Isn't the title of the PPV "Final" Resolution?) But, the finish was expected considering Roode's heel title reign is about keeping the title by any means necessary. Right now, Roode vs. Hardy is the main event of next month's PPV, but it looks like Styles could be added to the mix based on this result. (***)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 14 2011, 02:41 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-12-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_55940.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and Slammy Winners.

1 -- BIG SHOW vs. WADE BARRETT

They returned from break with the match already in progress. Barrett was on the floor, so Show followed to the outside. They teased a table spot before Barrett climbed to the top rope for a splash onto Big Show, but Show stood up and Barrett simply stood his ground on the top turnbuckle. Show then smashed the table a la a baseball player smashing a bat over his leg. Back in the ring, Barrett tried to use a steel chair, but Show punched the chair. The ref called for the bell, then Show clotheslined Barrett over the top rope. Barrett ran away and Show sold an injury to his hand.

WINNER: Show via DQ at 1:37 of what aired. Smackdown heels should avoid Raw at all costs since the booking on Monday nights does not favor them. At least Barrett picked up some promo time to call it a wash on the night.

2 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. IC champion CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. ZACK RYDER -- four-way match

Instead of the match result determining who wins the Slammy, Cole said the person who trends first will win. WWE has officially relegated a WWE Wrestling Match to irrelevancy. They cut to break 50 seconds into the match after the faces hit big moves on the floor.

Back from break in a match that WWE said doesn't matter, Rhodes and Ryder were shown squaring off in the ring. Ryder delivered a Broski Boot for a two count as the heels remained out of the picture recovering on the floor. Bryan and Ryder then collided mid-ring and the heels scampered back into the ring, leading to a showdown. Kash and Aries decided to go after the faces instead of attacking each other, though, which drew boos.

The partnership broke down quickly, leading to a shoving match between Ziggler and Rhodes. Bryan tried to take advantage, but the heels cut him off. Bryan and Rhodes then traded rapid-fire pin attempts before Rhodes threw Bryan to the floor. Rhodes then threw Ryder to the outside and Ziggler tried to roll up Rhodes from behind, but Rhodes escaped. Rhodes followed with the Alabama Slam on Ziggler for a close two count. At 8:00, they cut to another break.

Back from break, the men traded rapid-fire pinfall attempts before colliding mid-ring. After a breather, the announcers went overboard with Twitter references before Bryan went nuts with rapid-fire kicks and a running kick on Rhodes. Bryan then climbed up top and Rhodes crotched him. Ziggler then airballed a corner attack on Ryder, who went up top, where Ziggler cut him off. The result was the heels scoring superplexes from opposite corners, then all four men sold on the mat.

Ziggler and Rhodes were the first men to their feet and started trading blows. Suddenly, finishing moves started flying. Bryan tried the LeBell Lock on Rhodes for a submission win, but Ziggler grabbed Bryan for a sleeperhold. Bryan escaped, but took the Zig-Zag from behind. Ziggler with the pin on Bryan for the win. The announcers called it a great match-up.

WINNER: Ziggler at 15:20. It's too bad this match didn't matter since it was a strong bout despite the multiple commercial breaks.

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & RANDY ORTON vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & THE MIZ

The announcers referenced Orton and Punk's feud earlier this year and noted everyone has been an adversary at some point this year. The announcers also revisited Christian's return earlier tonight while sporting a neckbrace, prompting Lawler to slip in an Andy Kaufman reference. The match settled into the heels isolating Orton as Cole ranted and raved about Ross forgetting his rap in the opening segment. Punk took a hot tag and cleaned house before calling for the GTS on Del Rio. Miz cut off Punk from behind, though, and the heels took control again leading to break.

Back from break, Miz and Del Rio tagged in and out wearing down Punk ahead of their TLC title match on Sunday. Cole again suggested the title match can only end by pinfall or submission. As Punk tried to break free to tag in Orton, Barrett came out of nowhere to jump Orton from behind on the ring apron. Punk was essentially left alone in a two-on-one situation. Miz then dropped Punk with the Skullcrushing Finale for the pin and the win. Cole declared Miz the Superstar of the Year and potential future WWE champion.

Post-match: Orton hopped the guardrail to chase down Barrett in the crowd. This left Punk alone in the ring to take a beating from Miz and Del Rio using a ladder. Del Rio put Punk's left arm inside a ladder before applying the cross arm-breaker. Miz said they want to make sure Punk makes it to the PPV before one of them takes the WWE Title. Miz told Punk that his pipe bomb is going to explode in his face. Miz dropped the mic over Punk's head before his music hit. Miz and Del Rio stood tall as the announcers continued to stack the deck against Punk.

WINNERS: Miz & Del Rio at 12:40. Basic booking putting the face champion in jeopardy and giving the heels some needed credibility. It's odd they changed the TLC rules to basically a three-way match using weapons.

4 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. JOHN CENA -- non-title match

After circling around each other, the two men locked up and Henry flung Cena clear across the ring. Cena collected himself on the ring apron and looked around the arena to sell he was in trouble. A dueling chant started up as they cut to break 40 seconds in.

Henry showed off his power coming back from break just before the top of the hour.

Cena finally escaped and set up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena connected, then teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Henry collapsed on Cena's back. Henry made a cover, but Cena kicked out. Henry then went to a bear hug to continue wearing down Cena. Meanwhile, the crowd picked up a dueling chant trying to breathe life into this match. Henry then delivered a World's Strongest Slam, but Henry couldn't make an immediate cover.

Suddenly, pyro shot off and the lights went dark. Kane's music played and Kane re-emerged on-stage wearing a new mask that looked like a mask used by welders. Kane stomped out to the ring and Henry rolled out of the ring to avoid Kane, who Henry took out of action months ago. Cena then came to his feet and Kane gave him a chokeslam, which hushed the crowd. Kane stood over Cena, then his pyro shot off. Kane lowered his head, then removed the welder's mask to reveal a new Kane mask. He almost looked like Undertaker hiding behind the mask because he had long hair again. The hard camera zoomed in on Kane's glass eye to confirm it was Kane, plus he did his trademark crooked smile to confirm it was Kane. The show then faded to black with a close-up of Kane.

WINNER: No Decision when the show ended at 10:01. This felt like the Viewer's Choice Raw last year where the show dragged on for three hours before something significant happened at the very end. Back then, it was a 10-minute Nexus segment destroying the ring and this was a 30-second return of significant importance. Apparently a feud with Kane will give Cena something to do before WM28 season kicks off. Concerning this Sunday's PPV, WWE probably did more to turn away people from TLC because people probably don't want to spend another three hours with WWE this week after this exhausting, marathon session of a show.

List of Slammy Awards:

Tell Me I Did Not Just See That- Jim Ross
Holy (bleep) Moment of the Year- Big Show-Mark Henry ring collapse
Pipe Bomb of the Year- C.M. Punk
Divalicious Moment of the Year- Kelly Kelly
OMG! Moment of the Year- Triple H tombstoning The Undertaker at WM27 and Taker kicking out.
Trending Star of the Year- Zack Ryder
Gamechanger of the Year- The Rock challenges Cena to the main event of WM28.
A-Lister of the Year- Snooki
Superstar of the Year- C.M. Punk
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 15 2011, 01:39 pm
ROH TV Results: 12-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_55969.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - THE BRAVADOS (Lancelot & Harlem Bravado) vs. CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRIC ALEXANDER

The crowd taunted Harlem with Beiber chants. Alexander grounded Harlem and worked over his arm. Harlem tossed Lancelot into the corner and tagged in Lancelot. The Bravados then hit a double team elbow. Alexander fired back on Lancelot and tagged in Coleman, who hit a springboard clothesline. Coleman took down Lancelot with a nice dropkick and tagged in Alexander for a double team suplex. Harlem ran into the ring and got taken out as well. The Bravados cut off Alexander and began working him over in their own corner. Harlem taunted the crowd as the Bravados continued to work over Alexander. Alexander fired back and tagged in Coleman, who ran wild. Coleman caught Harlem with a leg lariat for a 2 count. Coleman caught Harlem with a 6-1-9 around the ringpost and Alexander followed up with a dive to take out both Bravados.

Alexander hit a frogsplash on Harlem back inside the ring and Coleman covered him for a 2 count. The action broke down with all four men in the ring. Alexander and Coleman hit a tandem neckbreaker on Harlem for the pin.

Winners: Cedric Alexander & Caprice Coleman – This was a solid tag match to give Coleman & Alexander a win on television.

2 - - T.J. PERKINS vs. CHRIS SILVIO

Silvio looks like Jesse Ventura and Hulk Hogan’s bastard child. Perkins and Silvio went back and forth on the mat in the early going. Perkins took down Silvio with a dropkick. They picked up the pace and Perkins nailed Silvio with a hurricanrana. Silvio grabbed a headscissors on the mat, but Perkins slipped out and nailed him with a dropkick. Perkins drove Silvio into the turnbuckles, but Silvio managed to roll to the floor. They went at it on the outside and Silvio pushed Perkins into the ringpost. He then tossed him into the barricade and flexed for the fans. Silvio slipped come off the top, but connected with a fist on Perkins. Silvio hit an arm capture slam and followed up with a running senton for a 2 count. Perkins fired back and hit a springboard dropkick to the back of Silvio. Perkins lit up Silvio with kicks and hit his 32nd hurricanrana of the match. Perkins sent Silvio to the outside and nailed him with a dive through the ropes.

Perkins caught Silvio with an ankle lock with a grapevine, but Silvio eventually got the ropes. Perkins went for hurricanrana number 33, but Silvio countered it into a powerbomb. Silvio placed Perkins on the top turnbuckle and went for a superplex, but Perkins tossed him off. Perkins connected with the double knees off the top and followed up with the detonation kick for the pin.

Winner: T.J. Perkins – The match was fine, but neither man did a lot to stand out. I’ve seen Perkins in some really good matches, but this match was just there and the crowd really didn’t seem into the action.

3 - - ANX (Rhett Titus & Kenny King) vs. ROH World Tag Team Champions (Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin) – Proving Ground match

The match began with 14 minutes of TV time remaining. Benjamin drove King into the corner. Benjamin offered a clean break, but King shoved him away. Both men exchanged counters. Benjamin finally caught King with a sunset flip and they exchanged 2 counts. They went back and forth and finally came to a stalemate and the crowd applauded. King grounded Benjamin a short time later and Titus tagged in and continued to work him over landing a big dropkick for a 2 count. Haas blind-tagged himself into the match and they double teamed Titus with a series of maneuvers for a 2 count. Haas went to work on Titus’s arm. Kelly and McGuinness plugged ROH’s ringside membership while Haas continued to work over Titus’s arm.

Titus fired back and King blind-tagged himself into the match and took out Haas with a big clothesline. Titus tagged in and hit a splash on Haas after King landed a springboard legdrop. Titus went for a charge on Haas in the corner, but Haas got out of the way and he crashed into the ringpost. Kelly pitched to a commercial break as Haas worked over Titus’s arm.

They came back from commercial with Titus trying to mount a comeback, but Benjamin tagged himself into the match and took him down to the mat. They showed Titus nearly making the hot tag during the commercial break, but he got cut off. They showed a fan looking on in silence as Benjamin continued to work over Titus with a German with a bridge for a 2 count. WGTT continued to tag in and out to work over Titus. Haas continued to work over Titus’s eye as Kelly pointed out a turnbuckle had accidentally come off. Haas showed a bit of a mean streak while working over Titus and the crowd booed. Titus tried to fire up on Benjamin a short time later with a series of forearms. Titus whipped Benjamin into the exposed turnbuckle and both men were down on the mat.

Titus nearly tagged out, but Haas got the tag from Benjamin and cut him off. Haas continued to work over Titus’s arm, but Titus drove him into the exposed turnbuckle. Titus leapt over Haas and made the hot tag to King, who ran wild on Haas and Benjamin. The crowd didn’t seem to be much into King’s big comeback. Titus took down Haas with a top rope x-factor, but Benjamin made the save. The action broke down with all four men in the ring. King took down Haas with the shotgun knees in the corner and went up top. Benjamin recovered and tossed him down to the mat. Haas then covered King for a nearfall. Haas & Benjamin set up for the leap of faith on King, but Titus pulled the ropes down. The Briscoes then attacked Benjamin with a chairshot to the back. King hit a backbreaker on Haas. Titus then came off the top with a knee drop for the pin on Haas.

Winners: Rhett Titus & Kenny King to earn a shot at the ROH World Tag Team Titles

Star rating: (**1/2) – The match had some good action, but the crowd just wasn’t into the action in the ring which took out any excitement factor that would have been there. The Briscoes running in and attacking Benjamin set them up to go into “Final Battle” as heels, but they’re really going to have to drive home that point next week on television.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 15 2011, 01:41 pm
WWE Tribute to the Troops Results: 12-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_55980.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT

Orton scored early offense before Barrett cheated to take control. The crowd cheered for Orton, who took a big boot that sent him falling to the ring apron. Orton came back with a back drop to slow down Barrett. The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Orton set up for and delivered a superplex. Moments later, Orton delivered trademark offense before going to That Place, but Barrett cut him off with a boot to the chest. Orton brushed it off and returned to That Place before setting up for the RKO. Barrett tried to run away, but Orton chased him down on the outside. Orton and Barrett continued to brawl and they were counted out.

Post-match: The fight continued ringside with the two men trading blows. Barrett whipped Orton into the ring steps, then went looking for a table to send a message before TLC. Barrett set up the table in the ring, but Orton dropped Barrett with a dropkick. Orton teased a table spot, much to the crowd's delight, but David Otunga stormed the ring to attack Orton. Barrett ran away to save himself for Sunday as Otunga put the boots to Orton. Otunga wanted a table spot, but Orton elbowed out and dropped Otunga with an RKO. Orton turned his attention to Barrett, who was on the stage by now, to give him an icy look. The crowd wasn't satisfied and wanted someone to go through a table, so Orton put Otunga through the table with an emphatic powerbomb. The crowd popped. Barrett tried to act unimpressed as Orton turned his attention to Barrett to keep the stare down going. After a replay, Orton continued to stare down Barrett.

WINNER: Double Count-out at 5:57. Thus far, this feels like a standard WWE wrestling show with a standard arena setting, the announcers playing up storylines, the next PPV promoted, and matches designed to advance stories rather than just keeping things at a standstill a la a house show.

2 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Dolph Ziggler) vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Sgt. Slaughter)

Swagger quickly pounded on Ryder to take control before Ryder came back with a right hand strike. And another. Ryder then delivered a Broski Boot and called for the end while Ziggler freaked out ringside. Swagger countered the Rough Ryder, though, and delivered a shoulder block for a two count.

Swagger then fed Ryder to the outside for Ziggler to deliver a sucker punch. Ziggler comically hopped on the announce table to tweet about his greatness before Slaughter came over to clothesline Ziggler. Swagger got in Slaughter's face, then kicked him in the gut. Swagger ripped off Slaughter's headband, then booted Ryder on the outside.

Back in the ring, Swagger went for a running Swagger Bomb, but Ryder got his feet up to block. Ryder followed up with the Rough Ryder for a pin and the win. Post-match: Ryder brought Slaughter into the ring to stalk Swagger for the Cobra Clutch. Meanwhile, Ziggler retreated to the stage to set up Ryder-Ziggler at the PPV.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:46.

3 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA & BELLA TWINS vs. KELLY KELLY & ALICIA FOX & EVE & MARIA MENOUNOS -- eight-Divas tag match

The heels isolated Eve building to a hot tag to Kelly. The action broke down before Maria tagged into the match and Beth stopped her in her tracks. Beth shoved Maria into the corner, but Maria avoided a corner attack and scored with a sunset flip. It was good for a quick three count that shocked everyone. Maria sold shock as well before the faces celebrated in the ring and Phoenix retreated to the floor with Natalya.

WINNERS: Team Maria at 2:45.

4 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title match

Rhodes dominated early on and continued to glare at Booker. Rhodes applied a bow & arrow submission, but Bryan escaped and landed multiple uppercuts. Rhodes cut him off, though, and scored a two count. Bryan made a comeback and continued to sell the ribs before landing a corner kick strike. Bryan then clotheslined Rhodes over the top rope to the floor in front of the announcers. Naturally, Rhodes tried to send a message to Booker by attacking Bryan on the outside. Booker had enough and walked over to Bryan to check on him, drawing Rhodes's attention. "Booker T" chant as Rhodes rolled Bryan back into the ring. Rhodes then exposed the ribs, but ducked under the ring to jaw with Booker, who popped him in the mouth behind the ref's back. Bryan then rolled up Rhodes from behind for a quick three count.

Post-match: Rhodes threw a fit. "You should be fined!" Cole shouted over and over toward Booker, who returned to the headsets and said he lost his composure. "That's my bad. I'm sorry!" Booker said. In the ring, Rhodes shouted at Booker to come meet him in the ring. Booker dropped the headset, removed his tailored suit jacket, and the fight was on in the ring. Booker landed a big back body drop that cleared Rhodes to the outside, then Rhodes grabbed his title belt and started to leave. Rhodes ran back into the ring, though, and took a right hand to the face from Booker. This time, Rhodes bailed for good. Booker's music hit and he did a spin-a-rooni to the delight of the crowd.

WINNER: Bryan at 4:29. Booker was terrific in the post-match with the "I'm sorry" line. Overall, a fine set up for Booker-Rhodes at the PPV.

5 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) vs. PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) -- non-title match

Bourne and Kofi took turns working over Primo early on before Epico tagged in. Lucha Libre broke out before Bourne caught Epico with a kick to the face. The tag champs resumed an attack, this time on Epico. The heels then cut off Kingston, who made a tag to Bourne moments later. Lots of camera time going to Rosa here, even during Bourne's time to shine. The action broke down, which left Bourne alone in the ring to take a backstabber from Epico. Epico made the cover for the win, nearly drawing shock from Primo. The heels then celebrated in the ring as Swoggle reluctantly announced the winners.

WINNERS: Epico & Primo at 2:57. This felt heavily edited for time. If it's the start of a new tag division feud, then thumbs up.

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. DREW MCINTYRE

The color contrast was very noticeable since it appeared McIntyre spent the entire day in a tanning bed. Sheamus quickly blasted away on McIntyre, then wanted the Celtic Cross, but Mac rolled away for a rope break. Mac used the misdirection to take control momentarily. After a thumb to the eye, Sheamus snapped and tackled Mac before pounding on him with big right hands. Sheamus landed big knees to the back of the neck before pounding on his chest. A Brogue Kick put Mac on his back and it was good for the pin and the win. Cole said the moral of the story is not to make Sheamus mad.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:17. A firm squash to continue building up Sheamus while he's in-between programs.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & JOHN CENA & BIG SHOW vs. World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY & ALBERTO DEL RIO & THE MIZ -- six-man tag match

Punk and Miz started things off, with Punk taking control after a brief exchange. Punk then teased a tag to Cena, who accepted. Cena and Miz did a double leap frog into a dropkick from Punk. Great house show spot. Punk accidentally went for a cover, so Cena pushed him off and made a cover for a nearfall. On the outside, Punk raised his arms to acknowledge he got over-zealous trying a pin not being the legal man. Show then tagged in and quieted the crowd to blast Miz with a chop. Miz ran away and tagged in Del Rio, who slowly entered the ring to square off with Show. Del Rio had enough of Show and ran over to Henry to tag him in.

Henry nodded his head to acknowledge Show before slowly entering the ring for a mid-ring face-off. The two big men traded blows before Henry delivered a big bodyslam for a two count. Henry, satisfied with his work, slapped Del Rio to bring Del Rio into the match. Del Rio wasted a bunch of time, then stomped and kicked Show. Miz was next in to try the same offense as "John Cena" was trending on Twitter. Henry then re-entered the ring to apply a bear hug on Show. Show broke free with headbutts and a back kick, then the two big men collided mid-ring with a double clothesline. Cena sold shock after the collision before warming up the crowd.

Punk took a hot tag as Miz took a tag from Henry. Punk flew at Miz with a springboard clothesline before delivering rapid-fire offense. Punk then hopped on Show's shoulders and they walked across the ring for Punk to deliver a Macho Man elbow drop from Show's shoulders. Miz kicked out of a pin, though, after Del Rio stomped Punk in the head. The heels then isolated Punk and Henry did some trash-talking during the beat down. Henry positioned Punk for the World's Strongest Slam and trash-talked Show, but Punk escaped and hot-tagged Cena to a big reaction.

Cena entered with offense on Henry before delivering a fallaway slam on Henry. The action broke down with Show delivering a chokeslam to Del Rio, Punk with the GTS for Miz, and Show with a KO Punch to Henry. Henry then stumbled into Cena, who lifted Henry in the air for the Attitude Adjustment. Cena made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena at 9:24. Solid house show-quality main event with the stars "letting their hair down" before Cena capped it off with a classic Power Display to send the crowd home happy.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 10:59 am
WWE NXT Results: 12-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_56023.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA & YOSHI TATSU vs. TYLER REKS & CURT HAWKINS

This has the makings of a good match. Barreta and Reks start off, with Reks immediately kicking Barreta in the gut and going to work with clubbing blows. Trent makes a quick comeback with a dropkick, and tags in Tatsu. Tag team double armdrag, Barreta with a running flip dive, and Tatsu makes the cover for one. Tatsu with chops in the corner, but Reks reverses a whip. Tatsu catches his head in a scissor hold in the corner and kicks him off. Tatsu to the top, but Hawkins tries to interfere, letting Reks arm drag Tatsu off the turnbuckle and across the ring. Reks overpowers Tatsu and tags in Hawkins. Hawkins with a suplex for two. Striker, rather out of character for himself, says that Hawkins and Reks have been given chances in the past and are overinflating their complains.

Reks come back in, does some work and gets Hawkins back in. Tatsu with a jawbreaker, but he can't make the tag. He breaks free again and this time he slaps Barreta's hand. Barreta flies across the ring to clear out Reks from the apron, then takes down Hawkins. Barreta with a running neckbreaker, then up top for a high crossbody (as in, "Kofi Kingston high,") but Reks breaks up the tag. Tatsu comes in, but Reks clotheslines him right out again. Barreta knocks Reks out, but Hawkins surprises him with a clothesline. Hawkins tries his weird powerslam, but Barreta slips out and rolls up Hawkins for the win. Barreta wisely runs out of the ring before Reks can catch him.

WINNERS: Trent Barreta and Yoshi Tatsu in 4:00. I would have liked to have seen this as a 10-15-minute match, but the ending and the pre-match promos definitely set up a longer program between the two teams, which has nothing but upside. Anything that puts more of these four wrestlers on-screen is good.

2 - JEY USO vs. JTG (w/Tamina)

Jey with a quick takedown and headlock, but JTG escapes. Jey with a shoulder tackle. JTG with a gutbuster to gain control. JTG looks like he stole Chavo's old trunks and turned them into baggy jeans. JTG mocks Uso's attempts to get the crowd involved by saying "Us... No" while locking Jey in a leg scissors. JTG goes on his typical offensive routine. Jey with a spinning elbow to get some breathing room, and after some back-and-forth, Jey lands a superkick for the win. Post-match, Tamina kisses JTG to revive him, and Jey hams up that he's sick.

WINNER: Jey Uso in 3:00. Quick, boring match, and the end came out of nowhere. What was the point of this?

3 - PERCY WATSON vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Watson immediately takes over. Curtis gets frustrated and heads to the corner for a break, but Watson meets him there for more punishment. Watson continues to take out his anger on Curtis. Watson charges Curtis in the corner, but Curtis lifts him up and over the ropes sending Watson to the floor. Curtis goes outside to beat on Watson a bit. Curtis rolls Watson into the ring and cuts off Watson's comeback with a suplex. Curtis with an armbar while Striker mentions his Ronald Reagan picture.

Curtis to the second rope, but Watson counters with a jumping knee to the face in one of those non-moves. Watson with dropkicks and a superman punch, then an overhead throw. Watson dances and lands the standing crossbody press for two. Curtis fights out of the corner, kicking Watson's hand, then working it a bit more. Curtis with his brainbuster finisher (which looked more like a suplex; it was a touch sloppy) for the win out of nowhere. Mathews didn't even realize it was the end and treated it like any other move.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 4:00. Decent match without enough time to really get out of first gear. Both Watson and Curtis have done better when given more than a few minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 11:00 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 12-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_56050.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match -- 5-minute overtime period

It wasn't clear if this was still contested like an Iron Man match or Sudden Death rules with the first fall to win. 45 seconds in, Tenay clarified it's Sudden Death. Roode tried to run away early on, but Styles trapped him in the ring for a series of nearfalls. Roode cried out for a time-out, but Styles continued to attack the champ. Styles took a kick to the injured knee, though, allowing Roode to target the injury. Styles fought back with elbow strikes into a springboard reverse DDT for a close two count when Roode grabbed the ropes for a break. 30 seconds to go and Roode thumbed Styles in the eye. Roode saw the clock on the scoreboard and rolled to of the ring. They placed chase again before Styles landed a springboard splash. The clock ran out, though, before Styles could attempt a pin.

WINNER: Time Limit Draw at 5:00.

Post-match: The crowd chanted for five more minutes, but Roode told the crowd to shut up. Sting's music then hit to bring out TNA's authority figure on-stage. Sting said they could do this all night, then booked a re-match with the first fall winning the match.

2 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match -- First Fall Wins

As soon as Sting made the announcement, Roode clipped Styles from behind as Styles was listening to Sting. Styles sold a leg injury and Roode immediately applied a half-Boston Crab. Styles tried to fight the hold, but had to tap out to save his leg. Roode is still World champ.

WINNER: Roode at 0:38 to retain the TNA World Title. Good advancement of Roode's heel character getting under the skin of the audience. The goal should be to get people to pay money to see Roode get his comeuppance, so we'll see if TNA can build to that moment at Genesis when Jeff Hardy challenges Roode.

3 -- ABYSS & SCOTT STEINER vs. HERNANDEZ & ROB TERRY (w/Rosita and Sarita) -- Wild Card tag tournament First Round match

A lot of big dudes in this match. At the start, Tenay passed along some news from Final Resolution that either Jeff or Karen Jarrett will be fired tonight. Steiner dominated the match and asked the crowd if they wanted to see Abyss enter the match. Steiner extended a hand to Abyss, who just ignored him. Terry then popped Steiner from behind before Hernandez choked Steiner with his t-shirt. Ref Earl Hebner delivered some unintentional comedy looking for something to distract himself with so he conveniently would not see the choke.

Abyss finally had enough of standing on the apron, so he tagged himself into the match to destroy Terry and Hernandez. Abyss delivered a Black Hole Slam to Terry, then pointed to Steiner. Abyss slap-tagged Steiner and gave him the floor to enter the ring. Steiner made the cover on Terry and it was good for the win. Post-match: Steiner didn't know what to make of Abyss, so he tried to leave the ring, but Abyss yanked him back to center-ring so they could celebrate the win. Steiner continued to sell bewilderment before posing in the ring. Abyss pointed to his head to suggest he has a plan.

WINNERS: Abyss & Steiner at 4:13. A Steiner face turn would work here since crowds are too entertained by his act to boo him. But, this came across more like TNA trying to enhance Abyss's mental skills to go with his physical and sexual skills.

4 -- ANTHONY NESE vs. ZEMA ION -- Best of Three Series -- Match #1

Nese blasted Ion to the outside early on. He then played to the crowd before leaping over the top rope with a flip dive that nearly missed Ion. Back in the ring, Nese delivered a springboard elbow strike for a nearfall. Nese followed with a flying uppercut. He tried a top-rope huracanrana, but Ion blocked and scored with a missile dropkick. Ion followed with a gutbuster, but pulled off a pinfall twice. Ion wasn't satisfied with his work, so he went up top for a 450 splash and connected. This time, he was satisfied and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Ion at 4:00. Apparently Ion is a heel now. The finish gave Nese motivation to get revenge in the next match and potentially the series, so a fine way to set up the next match in the series after a random start.

5 -- JESSE NEAL vs. GUNNER (w/Ric Flair)

The bell sounded and Gunner stampeded Neal with strikes and blows. Gunner followed with a corner tackle and more clubbing right hands. Ref Hebner sold intimidation as Flair flashed Gunner a thumbs up. A "Jesse, Jesse" chant fired up Gunner some more, so he dumped Neal to the outside. Hebner tried to reprimand Gunner, but Gunner shoved him, which drew a DQ.

Post-match: Flair removed the ring padding and Gunner measured Neal for a DDT onto the concrete. Neal sold being KO'ed as Tenay noted Neal's history of head and neck injuries. They quick-cut to a replay as the crowd chanted that Gunner sucks. Quick-cut back to ringside, where agents and EMTs were ringside. Tenay quietly said they'll keep on top of this.

WINNER: Neal via DQ at 1:42. There's the write-off for Neal parting ways with TNA.

6 -- TV champion ROBBIE E. & DOUG WILLIAMS vs. SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS -- Wild Card tag tournament First Round match

Tag partners Williams and Magnus started things off. They had a classic "exchange of holds between tag partners" to capture they are equally matched and know each other very well. Robbie tagged into the match and scored some offense on Magnus, leading to a methodical attack on Magnus.

The crowd tried to rally behind Magnus, who tried to tag in Joe. Eventually, Magnus made the tag and Joe cleaned house. Snap powerslam led to Williams accidentally elbow-dropping Robbie trying to break up a pin. Joe then landed corner elbow strikes on Robbie before Magnus came off the top with an elbow drop. Magnus then crotched Williams and Joe followed with a Muscle Buster for the pin and the win. Magnus and Joe work together for the win. Afterward, Robbie bailed while Joe & Magnus reluctantly celebrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Joe & Magnus at 3:58. There's potential for this Joe & Magnus duo. At the very least, it gives them purpose and a chance to develop chemistry with multiple TV matches.

7 -- TRACI BROOKS vs. KO tag champion MADISON RAYNE

Before the match, they focused on Traci's feud with Knockouts champion Gail Kim and Rayne. To start the proceedings, Traci jumped Rayne on the entrance ramp before dragging her to ringside and into the ring to officially start the match. Madison absorbed the pre-match attack, then scored a series of nearfalls in-between taunts. After being frustrated by the nearfalls, Madison scored the decisive fall, then gloated about her victory.

WINNER: Madison at 3:52.

8 -- JEFF HARDY vs. BULLY RAY

Ray jumped Hardy before the bell sounded, allowing him to quickly wear down a sore and injured Hardy. Tenay tried to get Roode's thoughts on the Jarretts being fired, but he only wanted to talk about himself. He then challenged Roode on being a fighting champion. Roode rolled his eyes and said he went 30 minutes on Sunday and another overtime period tonight. Roode then laughed at his actions last Thursday spitting in Dixie Carter's face. Ray continued to wear down Hardy as Roode claimed Hardy doesn't stand a chance against him at Genesis.

Hardy tried to mount a comeback by elbowing out of a bear hug, but he ate a big back body drop from Ray. Ray scored multiple nearfalls attempting pinfalls, then went back to work, but missed with a corner splash. Hardy fought back with right hands as Roode knocked his family and said the title belt is his family. Hardy went for the Twist of Fate and connected. Hardy made the cover, but Ray kicked out. Ray came back with a sidewalk slam, but Hardy escaped again. Ray missed with another splash, then Hardy hit another Twist of Fate. This one was good for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Hardy at 4:40. They packed a ten-minute main event into five minutes, which made Ray look a bit weak taking a clean loss, but also enhanced Hardy on his title quest. The post-match allowed Ray to get his heat back associating with Roode, who continues to be a strong lead heel. It's old hat continuing to involve authority figures in the top program, but at least Sting can eventually wrestle if they're building to a Roode-Sting match down the road.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 11:03 am
WWE Superstars Results: 12-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_56054.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Drew puts Gabriel into the turnbuckle, but when he jaws at the ref for breaking it, Gabriel takes over. McIntyre quickly comes back with punches, but Gabriel ducks a Big Boot and goes on the attack. McIntyre connects with the Big Boot, and lands a gutbuster from a fireman's carry for two, and transitions to a seated abdominal stretch. Gabriel mounts a comeback, but McIntyre gets a back body drop and covers for two. McIntyre with a pair of backbreakers as Striker and Mathews resume their petty arguing, even referencing events from NXT. McIntyre looks cocky after putting Gabriel into the corner, but he transitions a tilt-a-whirl move from McIntyre into a huracanrana, and then lands a springboard moonsault for two. McIntyre clotheslines Gabriel out of the air on a springboard move, then lands the Future Shock DDT for his first win in months.

WINNER: Drew McIntyre in 7:00. These two both have the skills, but it felt like they were stringing together spots, not having a match. All the same, it's good to see McIntyre with a win after months of being squashed on main roster shows and having hard fought losses on Superstars. Gabriel looked fine in the loss.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. HUNICO (w/Mystery Man)

Hunico rode on the back pegs of a low-rider bicycle being pedaled by someone I've never seen before, a well-muscled man dressed as stereotypically as Hunico. (Although not identified by the announcers, it was FCW wrestler Donny Marlow, the son of Haku.)

Hunico with an early wristlock for control, forcing Barreta down hard by the hair. Barreta with a quick monkey flip for one and moves to a side chinlock. Hunico armdrags out, then arm drags Barreta right into the turnbuckle, which looked painful. cover for one. Hunico abuses Barreta in the corner. Hunico with a suplex which gets two, and settles into a rear chinlock. Hunico lands some sort of inside-out armdrag. Barreta rolls under the ropes to the apron, but when Hunico leans through to grab him, Barreta surprises him with a leg drop.

Barreta goes up top for the corkscrew moonsault leg drop and lands it for a nearfall after a slow cover. Barreta lands a Gobstopper Knee from across the ring for two. Hunico shrugs off the Dudebuster DDT and sends Barreta into the ropes with a drop toe hold. Hunico with an Olympic slam, then goes up top for a Swanton Bomb for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 5:00. Excellent, fast pace to this match. With Hunico having a new mystery partner, is he separating from Epico and Primo, to have two gang-like Hispanic stables? Or is this just an expansion of the stable?

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. JACK SWAGGER

Wow, Eden Stiles is sounding like she's actively trying to imitate Lillian Garcia, who is a good announcer to mimic. Swagger trips Riley to put him face-first into the turnbuckle, but after a break, Riley comes out of the corner throwing big fists. Riley dodges Swagger and takes him down. Swagger heads to the corner and Riley gets a Mugshot-like move for one. Riley tries to do a springboard move out of the corner but Swagger hits him with a Big Boot for two, and then starts to dominate him on the mat with blows. Swagger Bomb gets two. Swagger controls Riley by the head, but telegraphs a back body drop so Riley kicks him. Swagger explodes with a clothesline from his knees, and goes back to work on Riley.

Shoulder tackle gets Swagger two, then he tries a chicken win on the mat. Riley punches out, ducks a clothesline and hits a pair of his own. Riley eats an elbow, but immediate responds with a spinebuster. Riley sets up for his floating DDT but Swagger turns it into a belly-to-belly suplex. Swagger looks for another Swagger Bomb, but Riley gets boots up. Riley sets up the "Final Score" finisher, but Swagger slides down for a sunset flip. Riley rolls over and leverages down for a two count. Swagger rolls through and into the Anklelock, but Riley escapes. Riley with the floating DDT, but Swagger kicks out at the last moment. Riley looks frustrated and Swagger looks grateful. They reset the match, and Riley tries Ten Punches again. Swagger throws him off and lands a diving chop block. Swagger with the Anklelock again, and Riley quickly taps.

WINNER: Jack Swagger in 8:00. Very good match. Swagger's always had it, and his motivation lately is through the roof. Riley's proving that he can put on a good match. I liked the back-and-forth and these two worked well together.

4 - WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes) -- non-title match

Air Boom seems to have their own t-Shirts and new, proper music that isn't a mix of either of their theme songs. Nice to see a tag team treated like a team!

Epico and Evan Bourne start off. Epico with a quick armdrag, then forces Bourne into the corner. Bourne jumps over Epico and then hits a pair of Japanese armdrags, the second into an armbar. Some fast Bourne offense, and Bourne brings in Kingston. Weird double team move for two. Scott Stanford hilariously slips in "Show-Miz" in a list of great tag teams along with Degeneration X and Rock 'n Sock Connection. Kingston with a cover for two. Kingston with a sunset flip followed by a double foot stomp for two. Epico gains control and tags in Primo. Kingston with a clothesline on both of them, but Primo regains control, and settles into a cravat.

Primo dumps Kingston to the outside, but when he tries a suicide dive through the ropes, Kingston surprises him with a Pele kick. Kingston with a springboard dropkick which sends Primo across the ring. Primo clears Epico from the apron, and then launches Bourne over the ropes to land a knee on each heel simultaneously. Rosa jaws at Bourne, and they cut to a Hulu commercial.

Back from break, Borune is covering Primo for two. Bourne with kicks to the hamstrings, but Bourne gets dumped into the ropes. Primo with some work and a cheapshot from Epico. Primo mounts Bourne for punches, and brings in Epico. Epico with a back elbow and a short cover, then head control. Lots of camera focus on Rosa at ringside. Epico with a running neckbreaker, and tags in Primo. Primo with a side Russian Legsweep and a bizarre hold when he has a leg scissors on the head and an armbar. Bourne tries to get out, but Primo keeps him away from Kingston. Primo with a schoolboy for two, and then brings Bourne back to the corner and tags in Epico.

Epico with a dropkick for two, and a suplex for two. Primo tags in and the crowd rallies Bourne. Bourne reverses a suplex attempt, and then hits double knees on another reversal and both men are down. double tags and Kingston with a Superman Punch, a pair of clotheslines, and a dropkick on Epico. Another Superman Punch and Kingston sets up for the Boom Drop and gets it. Rosa gets mad as he looks for the Trouble in Paradise, but Epico ducks. Epico charges Kingston, who counters with a pendulum kick. Kingston goes up to and lands the big crossbody, but Primo breaks up the cover. Bourne comes in and tries to clear him with a huracanrana, but Primo reverses and tosses Bourne over the ropes.

Epico gets in some offense, and Primo blind tags in. Kingston lands Trouble in Paradise out of nowhere on Epico, but Primo sneaks up from behind and has the Backstabber for the win. Post-match, the heel trio celebrates. Wow, Rosa Mendes in heels is taller than Primo; I've seen her in person and she's shorter than shown here.

WINNER: Primo and Epico in 10:00. Another slick match featuring these wrestlers. I'd like to see them do a ladders match at TLC. Like previous outings, no one dominated long enough for it to get boring, and the ending wasn't predicted by the action in the ring.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 11:03 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_56085.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Booker joined in on commentary after his segment. Bryan still had his ribs taped. He tried a quick LeBell Lock :30 into the match, but Rhodes fled to ringside before any damage could be done. They went to break :44 in.

Back at 3:35 of the match. Rhodes went for a leap-frog, but Bryan dropkicked him a little low, just above the waist-line. Cole got on Booker for getting involved in a match rather than focusing on commentary. Rhodes suplexed Bryan from inside the ring to outside. You always hold your breath on that move. Back in the ring, front-first suplex for two. Body-scissors by Rhodes. Rhodes blocked a kick and took the offense to Bryan again, with another two-count at 6:11. Backslide attempt by Bryan, then a magistral cradle for two. Missile dropkick off the second rope by Bryan for a two-count. Cole continued challenging Booker, with the two paying almost no attention to this match. At least they’re using the time to hype up a PPV match. Top-rope back suplex by Bryan, but Rhodes turned in mid-air and landed across Bryan’s ribs. Bryan kicked out at two. Rhodes countered a roll-up, hopped to his feet, and hit Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 8:35. Solid match and a good win for Rhodes. Not sure where this leaves Bryan.

2 – ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

Natalya brought a box of tissues to the ring and pretended to cry, using them and then tossing them aside. Fox tried a quick roll-up in the corner, but Natalya held on and stomped Fox in the stomach. Mathews said three Divas will be blogging for Perez Hilton starting on Monday. Abdominal stretch, but Nattie rolled up Fox for two. Fox kicked out, sending Nattie into the ropes, and Fox rolled Natalya up with a small package for the win. She had a handful of extensions too.

WINNER: Fox, at 1:02. As I talked about in my chat with James Caldwell earlier today on the Torch, it looks like Fox is next in line for a Divas Title shot.

3 – THE USOS vs. EPICO & PRIMO

Jimmy and Jey did their Polynesian battle cry atop the stage before they came to the ring. Rosa Mendes accompanied Epico and Primo to the ring. Flying elbow by Jey on Epico for two. Quick tags by the faces early on. A distraction led to Primo bringing Jimmy throat-first over the top rope. Double-team by Primo and Epico. Jey made the hot tag at the 2:00 mark. Running butt splash on Primo in the corner, but the pin was broken up by Epico. Distraction by Rosa led to one of the Usos getting crotched after going to the top rope. Primo hit the backstabber for the pin.

WINNERS: Epico and Primo, at 2:58. I never thought Primo would get off of Superstars let alone get some wins, but he’s been underutilized for a while. Giving him a push and doing it by propping up the tag division is win-win.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. JACK SWAGGER

As soon as the bell rang to begin the match, Mark Henry’s music played. He walked out in a Hall of Pain t-shirt, jeans, and carrying a steel chair. Swagger tried to get Show from behind, but Show wasn’t having it. He did manage to take Show off his feet, but not for long. Show mowed Swagger over. Show seemed more motivated with Henry sitting at ringside. Bodyslam on Swagger. Show choked Swagger on the middle rope, then chopped him. Two Swagger bombs in the corner on Show after the All-American American avoided a corner splash. Show made a comeback by chopping Swagger while he was on his knees. The splash connected, as did the shoulder tackle. He signaled for the chokeslam next. Swagger rolled through the chokeslam and hooked on the ankle-lock. Henry yelled for Swagger to “break it (the ankle)!” Show was in the move for a while, but stared at Henry, the broke the hold. Knock-out punch (the WMD) dropped Swagger for the three-count.

WINNER: Show, at 5:46. Good psychology in this one (and I’m sure Henry isn’t terribly sad for Swagger, who blew him off backstage) and Show looked dominant against Swagger.

5 – HEATH SLATER vs. TED DIBIASE

They actually showed clips of the DiBiase Posse that takes place before shows. Roll-up by DiBiase right off the bat. Roll through into a pinning predicament by DiBiase for two. The roll-ups started to frustrate Slater, who slapped DiBiase in the face. Hard whip into the buckle by Slater. Chop off the top rope by Slater for two. DiBiase came back and planted Slater with Dream Street for the pinfall.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 3:09. Another week, another win for DiBiase. Nothing wrong with that.

6 – JINDER MAHAL vs. SHEAMUS

After a collar-and-elbow tie-up, Sheamus took Mahal down. Mahal came back with rights. Size-wise, Mahal matches up surprisingly well with Sheamus. Sheamus avoided a knee-lift, which allowed Sheamus to then nail Mahal across the chest with ten forearms. He launched himself from the apron over the top rope with a shoulder block. Neck-breaker by Mahal for a near-fall. He brought forearms of his own across the chest of Sheamus. Sheamus didn’t allow Mahal an extended offensive run and hit the Irish Curse back-breaker. Brogue Kick finished things.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 3:50. Mahal could use a few quick wins like DiBiase has been getting lately in order to bring that feud back to an even standing.

7 – RANDY ORTON & ZACK RYDER vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & WADE BARRETT

Ryder face-planted Ziggler, then tagged in Orton at 1:03 of the match. Orton stayed on offense with ease against Ziggler, suplexing him for a two-count. Ryder came back in and Ziggler knocked Ryder off-balance after Ryder headbutted him. Barrett was in and Ryder tagged Orton, but Barrett scampered back to his corner and tagged Ziggler in. Orton took Ziggler down and knocked Barrett off the apron while he was at it, but he took his eye off Ziggler and paid for it. Ziggler countered an Orton back-breaker, and Ryder came in to dropkick him out of the ring. They went to break with the faces standing tall at 4:33.

Back at 8:48 of the match, with Orton having mounted the second rope, delivering punches to the head of Dolph Ziggler. High knee-drop right on target. Ziggler missed a clothesline and it appeared his momentum forced him to slide outside the ring and to ringside – that would’ve been some clothesline – but perhaps it was just a way to allow Barrett to enter the ring and boot Orton in the face. Knee-lift on Orton, then Ziggler tagged in. The heels isolated Orton in their corner. Ryder made the hot tag just after 12:00, and he hit Barrett with the Broski Boot. Rough Ryder missed and Ziggler punched Ryder in the head to stop his momentum. Ryder desperately tried to make a tag, but Ziggler held him back. Barrett tried to hit Wasteland on Ryder, but Ryder countered into a DDT and both men were down at 14:50. Orton finally made the hot tag and took apart Ziggler. Gutwrench into a neck-breaker by Orton for two. Pin was broken up by Barrett. Ryder clotheslined Barrett over the top, but outside the ring, Barrett whipped Ryder into the barricade. Roll-up, with the tights by Ziggler, only got two. Fameasser attempt, but Orton dodged it and RKO’d Ziggler. Barrett was about to interfere before the pin, but Orton made eye contact with him, and that was enough to keep Barrett out of the ring.

WINNERS: Orton and Ryder, at 16:07.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 02:32 pm
WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_56118.shtml)

1 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER -- U.S. title match

Ziggler started with some early offense and "showed off" about his successes. Ryder then blocked a leap frog and catapulted Ziggler into the top turnbuckle. Ryder followed with a clothesline sending Ziggler to the outside, then scored with a flip dive. Fist pump and "Whoo Whoo Whoo" kept the crowd involved. Before the match could return to the ring, Ziggler caught Ryder with a neckbreaker across the ring apron to take control of the action. In the ring, Ziggler landed elbow drop after elbow drop to "show off" again. Meanwhile, Cole and Lawler bantered unintelligently about Ryder's social media movement.

Ryder came back with a dropkick, then multiple clotheslines. Ryder followed with the Broski Boot and connected. Ryder had a pin, but Vickie put Ziggler's foot on the bottom rope. The ref saw it, so he gave Vickie the boot from ringside, much to the crowd's delight. Back in the ring, Ryder rolled up Ziggler from behind, but Ziggler escaped. Ryder then walked into a top-rope neckbreaker and Ziggler tried a quick Zig-Zag, but Ryder avoided. Ziggler came back with a Fameasser, but Ryder kicked out in time.

The action reset with the crowd rallying behind Ryder, who blocked another Zig-Zag, but Ryder walked into a dropkick. Ziggler couldn't put Ryder away, then decided to go up top, but Ryder crotched him. Ryder then set up for and delivered a huracanrana. Cover, but Ziggler kicked out in time. Ryder tried to follow up with the Rough Ryder, but Ziggler blocked, then rolled up Ryder from behind, but Ryder kicked out again.

At 10:00, the crowd rallied behind Ryder again. Ryder delivered double knees to the gut, then dropped Ziggler with the Rough Ryder. Ziggler bumped like crazy for the finish and Ryder made the cover for the pin and the win. Post-match: They cut to a shot of Ryder's Dad and the Big O going nuts ringside. Cole was speechless as Ryder celebrated with the U.S. Title belt. They cut to a shot of Cole with a boo-boo face as Lawler tried to get him to enjoy the moment. Ryder then hit ringside to celebrate with Zack's Dad and the Big O. Ryder stood on the announce table and fist-pumped with the crowd before leaving ringside with the title. Another big reaction for Ryder on the way out before he dropped down on the stage and celebrated the title victory. After a replay of the finish, they went back to Ryder celebrating the win.

WINNER: Ryder at 10:23 to capture the U.S. Title. Excellent opening match. A nice, feel-good moment for Ryder, and the crowd was hot to support the decision to advance Ryder up the ladder. For Ziggler, it could lead to a split from Vickie for a standalone singles run. (**3/4)

2 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes)
 
Before the match, Cole and Lawler recapped Epico & Primo's solid week of victories to earn the title shot tonight. The heel challengers took control of the match after Bourne missed with a high-risk move. Rosa, who continues to get more camera time than Epico & Primo, taunted Bourne as the heels continued to wear him down. Cole, in-between Twitter plugs, predicted a title change, which gave away that the titles are not changing hands.
 
Bourne finally made a tag to Kofi, who went high-flying on the heels. Kofi delivered the Boom Drop on Primo, then wanted Trouble in Paradise, but Epico ran interference. The action broke down before Kofi caught Primo off the ropes with TIP. It was good for the pin and the win.
 
WINNERS: Air Boom at 7:32 to retain the Tag Titles. Basic tag match presented as filler after Ryder's match. (*1/2)

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT
 
Orton tried to retrieve a table early on, but Barrett kicked the table into Orton's face. Orton turned the tables, then the match moved to the floor. Referee Jack Doane retrieved gloves from his pocket, so someone was apparently bleeding. The fight moved up the rampway to the stage area as the camera picked up on Barrett having a cut over his right eye. Orton then chased Barrett down the entrance ramp to the ringside area, but Barrett rammed Orton face-first into the ringpost. Barrett followed with a big boot that decked Orton. Barrett then wiped away the blood over his eye before sliding a table into the ring. Barrett also set up a table ringside, then wanted a big splash through the table, but Orton crawled off.
 
Barrett continued the assault ringside as Orton sold various injuries. Back in the ring, Barrett choked Orton in the ropes and landed multiple knee strikes. Barrett then booted Orton off the ropes, but Orton held his ground on the apron to avoid falling through the table ringside. For his next move, Barrett wanted a running powerslam through a table in the corner, but Orton slipped out and went on the attack. Orton delivered signature offense, including a spike DDT off the second rope. Orton then went to That Place to set up for the RKO, but Barrett countered with the Black Hole Slam.
 
Barrett resumed the attack by slamming a table onto Orton's chest. Barrett followed up by placing Orton stomach-first on a table. Barrett then went up top and went for a big elbow splash, but Orton popped to his feet and delivered the RKO through the table all in one fluid motion. That came out of nowhere for an emphatic victory for Orton. Lawler suggested Orton was playing opossum to lure Barrett into his trap. Again, Cole was saddened by his "teams" continuing to lose.
 
WINNER: Orton at 10:16. Another highlight-reel mid-air RKO for Orton. It gives Orton a "win" without Barrett losing much since he wasn't pinned and he dominated most of the match. Overall, solid brawl playing off their well-developed feud. (**)

4 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match
 
With the addition of three unadvertised matches on the card (Tag Title, Divas Title, and Swagger-Sheamus), this PPV is starting to feel like an episode of Raw. Kelly used her elusiveness to her advantage early on before Beth overpowered Kelly. She couldn't score a pin, though, allowing Kelly to make a comeback. They exchanged nearfalls before Beth countered a handstand into an emphatic overhead facebuster. It was good for the win.
 
WINNER: Phoenix at 5:17 to retain the Divas Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 02:32 pm
5 -- TRIPLE H vs. KEVIN NASH -- Sledgehammer ladder match
 
Once the bell sounded, Nash landed a knee to the gut. The two men traded blows, with Hunter sporting taped fists to make it look like a street fight. Hunter delivered a blow to the gut that knocked Nash to the outside. On the outside, Nash used a ladder to ram Hunter over the guardrail to the outside. Hunter quickly recovered and clotheslined Nash into the front row on the opposite side of the ringside area. Nash came back with an elbow smash, but Hunter reversed a whip and Nash ate the ringpost. Back-and-forth early on.
 
Hunter sustained an attack with multiple ladder strikes to the lower body, targeting Nash's left knee. Hunter followed with a figure-four inside the ladder, drawing Ric Flair "Whoos" from the crowd. Nash screamed in agony before Hunter dropped the hold. Moments later, Nash mustered an Irish Whip that sent Hunter flying into a ladder propped up in the corner, then over the top rope to the outside. Back in the ring, Nash dropped Hunter back-first across a ladder with a sidewalk slam. Hunter eventually rolled to the outside for a breather.
 
On the outside, Nash cleared the announce table, then wanted a Jackknife Powerbomb, but Hunter back-dropped Nash onto the table. In the ring, Hunter tried climbing a ladder for the hammer, but Nash recovered, re-entered the ring, and yanked him down. Nash followed with a chokeslam center ring before going to the outside again. This time, Nash retrieved a table. Nash slid the table into the ring as Cole name-dropped Shawn Michaels and what he must be thinking right now. Nash dropped a strap, then wanted a Powerbomb through the table, but Hunter shoved him away into a ladder. Hunter then shoved Nash to the outside and set up a ladder to retrieve the hammer. Nash recovered, though, and met Hunter on top of the ladder. Hunter grabbed the hammer and bashed it into Nash's head twice, causing Nash to fall off the ladder through the table. Hunter then retrieved the hammer and realized it was now his to use.
 
Hunter climbed down the ladder, waited for Nash to get up, and delivered multiple hammer strikes to the body. Hunter tossed aside the ladder, then stalked Nash for a decisive blow. Hunter tossed the hammer away, though, and tried the Pedigree, but Nash's legs collapsed. Hunter tried again and connected this time. Hunter wasn't done, though. The crowd wanted one more Pedigree, but Hunter said "no" before measuring Nash for a decisive hammer blow. Before that, Nash flashed the Kliq/Wolfpack signal. Hunter shook his head, then shot Nash a crotch chop before delivering a hammer shot. Hunter made the cover and it was good for the win.
 
Post-match: After replays of the high points from the match, they showed Nash being placed on a backboard by medics. Nash was then placed on a stretcher and wheeled away from ringside. Hunter screamed at the medics to take Nash away.
 
WINNER: Hunter at 18:13. Considering their physical limitations and age, this was a solid brawl to conclude the Hunter-Nash feud. A bit slow at times, but they effectively told the story of Hunter conquering Nash. (**1/4)

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)
 
Cole noted Swagger won his first WWE Title match at TLC two years ago when he sent John Cena through a table. Sheamus dominated early on as the announcers traded light barbs. Vickie then provided a distraction that allowed Sheamus to take control on the outside. Back in the ring, Swagger tried to taunt Sheamus, which only angered Sheamus. Sheamus blasted away with big forearm blows and strikes, but took his eye off Swagger, who knocked Sheamus off the apron to the outside.
 
Back in the ring, Sheamus recovered and went up top for a flying shoulder tackle that connected. Sheamus made a cover, but Swagger kicked out, which excited Vickie. Sheamus then called for the end, but Swagger ducked a Brogue Kick and clipped Sheamus's left knee. Swagger began focusing on Sheamus's leg, but missed with a corner Swaggerbomb. Swagger then missed with another clip attempt, leading to a Brogue Kick. It was good for the win.
 
WINNER: Sheamus at 5:57. Another solid win for Sheamus. WWE at least seems to have some interest in re-focusing on Swagger since he lasted more than five minutes and was given a lot of offense in a match similar to Swagger vs. Big Show on Smackdown. (*1/4)

7 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. BIG SHOW -- World Hvt. Title match
 
The bell sounded and Show immediately slipped to the outside to slowly walk around the ring throwing chairs into the ring. Henry swatted a few chairs away, then Show re-entered the ring to start fighting. Henry had other ideas and slipped out of the ring, telling Show he's out of his mind. Henry retrieved his title belt and said this isn't happening. Henry started to leave, but Show caught up with him on the outside. Show ducked a belt shot, then bashed a chair over Henry's back three or four times. Henry absorbed the blows, though, and delivered a chair shot to the back. Henry then smashed Show's injured hand into the ring steps before jabbing him in the gut with a chair.

Back in the ring, the two men crashed chairs together a la a swordfight. Show sold the effects, though, with his hand injury. Henry followed with a chair shot to the back before talking trash. Henry went for a big chair shot, but Show side-stepped it and delivered the KO Punch. Show sold a hand injury and couldn't make an immediate cover. He then rolled Henry over and scored a pinfall to capture the World Title. The crowd didn't immediately react since the sequence seemed to come out of nowhere.
 
WINNER: Show at 5:31 to capture the World Title.
 
Post-match: Henry clipped Show from behind with a chair, then DDT'ed Big Show into a chair. Henry pounded the mat in frustration as a few fans in the arena chanted for Daniel Bryan. Suddenly, Bryan's music played and Bryan stormed the ring with referee Scott Armstrong.

8 -- World Hvt. champion BIG SHOW vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- World Hvt. Title match
 
Bryan rolled over Big Show and scored a three count to capture the World Title. Bryan accepted the title and began celebrating as Show sat up on one knee selling that he was stunned. Bryan celebrated, then flashed the title belt in Cole's face. Cole sat stunned as Bryan celebrated with the crowd. The camera focused on Show again as he flashed a wink and a smile toward no one in particular. Bryan then stopped to look at the title belt in his possession after locking eyes with Show. They replayed Bryan's cash-in as Cole noted Show was supportive of Bryan's career for the past few months. Back live, they showed Bryan continuing to celebrate the win as Show disappeared to the back. On the stage, Bryan held up his title belt for the crowd to see.
 
WINNER: Bryan at 0:07 to capture the World Title. Well, that certainly shakes things up. A lot to digest here with Show, Henry, Orton, and Sheamus in the title picture. I doubt Bryan's title reign will last long, but it eliminates Bryan's World Title cash-in situation at WrestleMania and opens up the Royal Rumble winner to receive a title shot at WM28. It seemed like this was more of a maintenance move before the Rumble next month.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 19 2011, 02:33 pm
9 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. BOOKER T -- Intercontinental Title match
 
Booker teed off on Rhodes to begin the match, taking out his anger on the champ. Booker followed with a side kick and scored a close nearfall. Cole said nothing would shock him tonight at this point. Booker then dumped Rhodes to the outside and taunted Booker in-between strikes. Back in the ring, Rhodes attacked Booker's left leg before the two men collided mid-ring. After a pause, they reset with an exchange of right hand bombs. Booker got the best of the exchange before delivering a Harlem Heat spinebuster. Rhodes rolled to the apron, then Booker made eye contact with the crowd and did a Spin-a-rooni. It took a lot out of Booker, though, and he came to his feet selling dizziness. Booker tried a variety of trademark kicks that Rhodes ducked, then Cody hit his step-up enziguiri for a believable nearfall. Cody followed with another kick to the head, and it was good for the win.
 
WINNER: Rhodes at 7:18 to retain the IC Title. Good heel win for Rhodes after the multiple pre-match attacks and Booker looked good in the ring. Booker said before the PPV this was probably his last match, but they could get another match out of this feud.

10 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- three-way WWE Title match -- TLC match
 
Punk led a loud "C-M-Punk" chant before the bell officially sounded. The heels then double-teamed Punk and continued an early assault. The announcers continued to botch the rules, like on Raw, until Cole corrected Lawler. Del Rio and Miz then went to the outside to retrieve weapons and they began arguing with each other. Punk used the argument to deliver a suicide dive to Del Rio, who sold a wrist injury after the move.
 
Back in the ring, Miz and Punk battled. Miz got the best of the exchange and Punk's back bent a chair in half. On the floor, Del Rio back-dropped Miz onto a ladder, then Punk delivered a kick that sent the ladder into Del Rio's face. Punk picked up a chair for his next attack and bashed Miz across the back multiple times. Punk followed with a running knee that sent Miz over the guardrail into the front row.
 
Back in the ring, Punk tried to climb a ladder to retrieve the WWE Title belt, but Ricardo stormed the ring and managed to handcuff Punk to the ladder. Del Rio capitalized with an attack on Punk as the announcers sold jeopardy for Punk. Del Rio tried to climb the ladder, but Punk kicked the ladder and broke free of the ladder. He still had the handcuff around his wrist, though. Punk then cleared Del Rio to the outside, but took ladder blows from a re-emerging Miz. Miz then scampered up the ladder and got his hand on the title belt, but Punk cut him off. Punk and Miz then set up a top-rope spot, but Del Rio came out of nowhere for an enziguiri that sent Punk off the top through a table on the floor below. The crowd ooh'ed and aah'ed as Punk landed with a thud on the ground.

At 10:00, Del Rio turned his attention to Miz and forced him to tap out with a cross arm-breaker inside a ladder. Miz cried out in pain, then Del Rio released the hold and retrieved chairs. Del Rio used the chairs to bash Punk as Punk remained on the table scraps. Del Rio followed with a cross arm-breaker that caused Punk to scream in pain. Del Rio, satisfied, slowly re-entered the ring to climb the ladder. Del Rio took forever and Lawler said Del Rio was pulling this off, which meant, of course, he wasn't. Miz and Punk then re-entered the ring and tipped Del Rio off the ladder into a crotch-first fall onto the top rope. On the floor, Del Rio sold massive pain.
 
Back in the ring, Miz and Punk traded bombs before they collided mid-ring. So, everyone was down. Well, except for Ricardo, who climbed the ladder. Punk and Miz then slowly tipped over the ladder and Ricardo took a scary-looking fall off the ladder through a table on the floor. After Ricardo's hard fall through the table, refs immediately checked on Ricardo to ensure he was just selling the fall.
 
After a pause, Miz managed to handcuff Punk to the corner turnbuckle. Miz taunted Punk instead of trying to grab the title, so Punk used his educated feet to deliver a swift kick to the head that floored Miz like a tree tipping over in the woods. Punk couldn't move, though, as Del Rio re-entered the ring. The crowd tried to rally behind Punk, who watched as Miz and Del Rio started climbing ladders.
 
Punk then loosened the middle turnbuckle to escape and all three men found themselves on top of ladders for a final sequence. They traded blows before Punk kicked both heels off the ladders. Miz yanked Punk down, though, only to take a GTS from Punk. Miz was cleared to the floor, leaving Punk and Del Rio in the ring. Punk quickly climbed the ladder and grabbed the title belt before Del Rio could put up a fight. Punk retains the WWE Title. Cole said it's only fitting the Superstar of the Year retains the WWE Title. They went to wide shots of the arena to capture massive chaos and bodies everywhere as Punk stood alone on the ladder. They replayed high points from the match before going back to a final shot of Punk. Cole noted Ryder is the new U.S. champion, Bryan is the new World Hvt. champion, and Punk is still WWE champion. Punk kissed the title belt as they signed off 11 minutes before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Punk at 18:25 to retain the WWE Title. A predictable, yet satisfying conclusion to the PPV. It's difficult to make the TLC PPV main event seem fresh or new after matches full of weapons, but they pulled it off. Fortunately, WWE toned down the dangerous spots in this match compared to past editions, but Ricardo's fall was too close for comfort. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 21 2011, 02:43 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-19-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_56151.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT

The camera focused on a cut over Barrett's right eye from the PPV. Barrett, angered, scored with early offense before Orton came back with a hard clothesline and uppercut. Barrett then knocked Orton to the outside to take control leading to an early break.

Back from break, Barrett was still wearing down Orton. Cole noted Barrett believes he has to beat a man of Orton's caliber before he can receive a World Title opportunity. Cole heelishly said he would like to see either Orton or Barrett get a shot at Bryan. Orton made a comeback, but Barrett came back with a Wasteland tease. Orton blocked, though, and delivered a backbreaker. Orton then stalked Barrett for his elevated DDT and connected. Orton went to That Place for the RKO, but Barrett thumbed him in the eye. That was good for a DQ. Cole was quick to point out Barrett used a thumb to the eye last month to beat Orton, so he wasn't going to allow it this time.

Post-match: Barrett put the boots to Orton as the ref reprimanded him. Barrett then picked up the scraps and delivered a Black Hole Slam. Cole said it's now called the Winds of Change. Barrett wasn't done, as he retrieved a table from under the ring. Barrett saw Orton reach his feet, so he gave him a big boot. Barrett then measured Orton for a table spot and delivered Wasteland through the table, folding up Orton like an accordion. Barrett then stood on Orton's chest to put an exclamation point on the post-match attack. As Barrett left the ring, refs checked on Orton. Lawler said knowing Orton, this will come back to haunt Barrett. After a replay of the post-match, they showed Orton crawling on his belly trying to reach out for vengeance on Barrett.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 8:01. Good follow-up for Barrett's character to re-establish him as a force. It also keeps the feud going and could re-invigorate Orton's character. The crowd reaction wasn't very strong for Orton during the match and this could be a way to return Orton to a strong position after being out of the Smackdown title picture for a few months.

2 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX -- non-title match

Phoenix came out alone for the contest, similar to at TLC when Natalya did not accompany her. Also, Alicia Fox was without Eve and Kelly Kelly. Before the bell sounded, Beth taunted Fox by holding out her title belt to ask Fox if she wants it. A. Fox executed a neckbreaker into a leg drop and it was good for a shockingly quick win. Afterward, Fox staked her claim for a future title shot.

WINNER: Fox at 0:48.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. JINDER MAHAL

Sheamus wasn't impressed with Jinder's offense early on, so Jinder offered a more aggressive attack to begin wearing down Sheamus. Sheamus quickly came back with Polish Hammer blows before going up top. He missed with a shoulder block, but landed on his feet and scored with an Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus followed with the Celtic Cross for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 1:55. Another fine squash for Sheamus for what seems like the eighth straight WWE show. Can they not find a decent feud for Sheamus post-Christian? Apparently this deal with Jinder is a placeholder until Christian is healthy or until Great Khali comes back or something. It's also worth noting not a single male from the Raw roster was in a match in the first hour.

4 -- THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes)

As the match started, Cole talked up Epico and Primo's failed attempt to win the Tag Titles at TLC. Very quick pace to begin the match, indicating it wasn't going long. They cut backstage to a shot of tag champs Kofi & Evan Bourne watching the match on a monitor. The director continued to focus on Rosa as the heels took their team wearing down Uso. Jey Uso took a hot tag, then the action broke down. In the confusion, Epico dropped Jey with the backstabber for the pin and the win. Cue up Team Rosa's celebration.

WINNERS: Epico & Primo at 2:54. The crowd didn't care for this. Other than the Kane-Cena segment, this show has felt like filler since the opening segment.

5 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

Cody took his time dismantling Santino as Cole and Lawler bickered. Santino came back with a hip toss, then teased the Cobra, but Rhodes ducked and hit the Alabama Slam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Rhodes at 1:25. Santino fulfilled his role as the designated Raw brand enhancement talent. A good, solid, clean victory for Rhodes, although a heel like Dolph Ziggler could have really used this spot.

6 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN & U.S. champion ZACK RYDER vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & THE MIZ & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- six-man tag match

Bryan and Ryder dumped the heels to the outside one-by-one before Ryder flew over the top rope with a flip dive. Punk followed with a top-rope dive on the heels to get the crowd fired up. The face trio then stood tall in the ring leading to commercial.

Back live, Bryan blasted Miz with a flying kick followed by multiple kick strikes. Miz came back with a DDT, though, for a two count. The heels then isolated Bryan in their corner as Vickie shouted encouragements. Cole reset two minutes before the top of the hour and reluctantly described the new champions involved in the match. He continued to say he's embarrassed to be part of WWE tonight. Bryan fought back on Del Rio, but Del Rio whipped him into the corner and landed a kick to the chest.

At the top of the hour, Del Rio continued the assault on Bryan as the announcers played up the brewing issue between Bryan and Big Show. Bryan then blasted Ziggler with a desperation boot to the face and tagged in Ryder, who flew at Ziggler with quick strikes. Next was the Broski Boot for a two count. Dolph then came back with a dropkick that allowed the heels to regain control of the match working on Ryder. Del Rio then lost control of the match and Ryder crawled across the ring to Punk for a hot tag. Miz also tagged in, setting up Punk vs. Miz.

Punk delivered signature offense before heading up top for a Macho Man elbow drop. Punk made a cover, but Miz kicked out, only to find himself in a submission. Ziggler broke it up, though, and the action broke down after Del Rio legally tagged in. Punk tagged in Bryan, who came off the top with a dropkick to Del Rio. Punk then dropped Miz with a GTS. Miz rolled out of the ring, then Del Rio shoved Punk to the outside. Bryan missed with a kick to Del Rio, then Del Rio appeared to have Bryan positioned for a win, but Bryan came out of nowhere with the LeBell Lock. Cole shouted at Del Rio to escape or someone to break it up, but Del Rio tapped out to Bryan. "You gotta be kidding me!" Cole shouted.

WINNERS: Team Bryan via submission at 13:15. Bryan needed a credible victory, even in a six-man tag, after his MITB cash-in at the PPV last night. He still seems to be positioned as the non-deserving, yet scrappy underdog champion, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out on Smackdown. Overall, a fine six-man tag to close the show. (**)

Post-match: The face trio celebrated with their titles as Cole said he doesn't want to hear about the balance of power shifting in WWE and the dawn of a new era. Punk, Bryan, and Ryder did a victory lap around ringside before Punk stood on the announce table to flash his title belt in Cole's face. The show closed six minutes past the top of the hour with a final shot of Punk in the foreground and Ryder in the background standing tall.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 23 2011, 09:40 am
ROH TV Results: 12-17-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_56207.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - ANDY RIDGE vs. EDDIE EDWARDS

Truth Martini came into the commentary booth and said he’s a fan of Edwards. Kelly questioned Truth because he had recently said he was a fan of Richards. Martini told Kelly he was sick of the crap coming out of his mouth. Edwards and Richards exchanged counters and came to a stalemate inside the ring. Edwards backed Ridge into the ropes and nailed him with a chop. Ridge and Edwards began exchanging blows. Ridge finally took down Edwards with a kick, but only got a 1 count. Edwards fired back and locked in a nasty looking arm-capture submission, but Ridge got the ropes. Ridge fired back and hit a series of kicks on Edwards. Edwards countered Ridge and locked in the STF, but Ridge got the ropes. Kelly said he hadn’t seen that move before out of Edwards. Ridge got the ropes to escape the hold and hit a springboard ace crusher for a 2 count a short time later. Edwards got up and caught Ridge with a big clothesline. Edwards followed up with a powerbomb and locked in the dragon sleeper and Ridge immediately tapped.

Winner: Eddie Edwards – The action was solid, but I don’t get why ROH showcases these competitive squashes on television. Ridge got in a fair amount of offense.

2 - - MICHAEL ELGIN (w/Truth Martini) vs. ROH World Champion DAVEY RICHARDS – Proving Ground match

The crowd chanted loudly Richards once the bell rang. Elgin drove Richards into the ropes and offered a clean break. Elgin offered another clean break against the ropes and Richards nailed him with a forearm, but Elgin fired back with a forearm of his own that sent Richards to the outside. Richards took Elgin down and went to work on his legs with a submission, but Elgin got the ropes. After a back and forth exchange, Richards caught Elgin with a dropkick as he came off the ropes and went back to work on him on the mat. Richards charged at Elgin in the corner, but he caught him with a spinning sidewalk slam. Elgin dragged Richards to the outside and drove him into the apron.

Elgin tossed Richards back into the ring as the crowd tried to rally behind Richards. Elgin tossed Richards back to the outside and Martini raked his eyes while Elgin distracted the ref. Back inside the ring, Elgin hit a big slam on Richards for a 2 count. Kelly focused on Roderick Strong and said he was bitter he wasn’t in the title match at “Final Battle.” Richards fired back and hit a dive through the ropes on Elgin and the crowd went nuts.

They came back from commercial break with Elgin and Richards exchanging blows in the ring. They showed footage from the commercial break of Elgin catching Richards and nailing him with a backbreaker while Richards attempted a comeback. Back to live action, Richards hit a kick on Elgin that sent him to the outside. Richards went for a kick off the apron, but Elgin caught him and hit a muscle buster on the outside. Hi, Samoa Joe! Richards slowly climbed his way towards the ring as the ref counted, but he beat the count. Elgin taunted Richards, but Richards spit in his face. Elgin nailed Richards with a kick and then nailed him with a suplex into a slam for a 2 count. Elgin hit a pump-handle slam into a pin for another 2 count, but Richards kicked out and the crowd went nuts. Elgin set up for a powerbomb, but Richards blocked it. Richards tripped Elgin and hit a doublestomp that left both men down as the crowd slammed the ring barriers.

Both men fought up top. Richards eventually won the war and hit a superplex and the crowd stood and cheered. Elgin got to his feet before Richards and Richards looked shocked. Elgin told Richards to bring it after Richards nailed him with a boot. Both men then began exchanging forearms and strikes. Elgin finally took down Richards with a kick to the head that left both men down. There has been some excellent action in this match so far. Both men struggled to get to their feet as the crowd chanted for Richards. Both men exchanged strikes again in the middle of the ring. Richards drove Elgin into the corner with a series of kicks. The announcers said there was only 4 minutes remaining in the time limit. Martini grabbed Richards’s foot from the outside. Elgin went for a suplex, but Richards landed on his feet and hit the alarm clock. Richards took out Martini with a running kick on the apron. He then hit a doublestomp off the top for a nearfall with a little over 2 minutes of time remaining in the match. The crowd roared as Richards nailed Elgin with a kick to the head and locked in an arm bar. Elgin got to his feet and tried to escape, but Richards hung on as Elgin clasped his hands.

Elgin dead-lifted Richards, but got nailed with several Elbows by Richards, who continued to hold onto the arm bar. Elgin stood up and Richards flipped over him and got a sunset flip for the pin.

Winner: Davey Richards

Star rating: (***1/2) – This was an excellent television match. I don’t see the benefit of having Richards have this good of a match on TV leading into “Final Battle,” but these two put on a show and Elgin looked really good in the ring. The crowd was as hot as they’ve sounded on television and the match really picked up pace leading into Richards getting the surprise pin in the end.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 23 2011, 09:41 am
WWE NXT Results: 12-21-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_56224.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - THE USOS vs. JOHNNY CURTIS & DERRICK BATEMAN - Tag Team Match

On commentary, Striker explains that neither Curtis nor Bateman is going to impress Teddy Long or John Laurinaitis with a personal feud. Isn't that why Wade Barrett is picking in Randy Orton, to get a shot at the top? Jimmy starts the match with a shoulder block and brings in Jey. Striker explains to the audience that the picture Curtis showed was out of context and that Maxine wasn't willing. Jey with a cover for one and brings Jimmy back in. Bateman comes back with a dropkick, but Curtis blind tags in and Bateman looks upset. Jimmy slaps him hard and tags in Jey. Jey with a spinning back elbow, and tries to follow with a side kick, but Curtis catches it and runs him down with a clothesline which gets two.

Curtis with some basic offense. He looks to tag Bateman in, but Bateman drops to ringside and they have an argument. Jey is slowly recovering as Bateman slowly walks away. Curtis turns around into a side kick, and a drop down slap, then Jimmy tags in and they do a double team stinkface. Jimmy drags curtis mid ring, tags Jey, and he hits a huge Superfly Splash across the ring.

WINNERS: The Usos in 4:00. Not a "match," and more of an "angle," but it did what it needed to do.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. CURT HAWKINS (w/Tyler Reks)

A bit of a feeling out process until Hawkins takes down Barreta with a shoulder tackle, but Barreta responds with an elbow.

Hawkins clotheslines Barreta out of the ring. Hawkins rolls Barreta back into the ring and puts boots to him and then goes into a side chinlock. Barreta escapes the hold but runs into Hawkin's goofy powerslam which gets a two count. hawkins with another chinlock and Barreta fights out again, but Hawkins trips him and showboats to Striker. Barreta surprises Hawkins as he reenters the ring with a kick then a dropkick. They trade blows until Barreta hits and enziguri then a flying elbow in the corner. Barreta with a running high knee for two.

Barreta cuts off a comeback and sets up for the corkscrew moonsault leg drop, but Reks comes to interfere. Barreta kicks him away but it gives Hawkins the tick to knock Barreta off the rope and smack his chin on the turnbuckle. Hawkins with some nondescript neckbreaker/DDT move for the win. Meanwhile, a sign in the audience says "Tyler Reks Fears Soap." Striker says that Hawkins is probably going to come up with a lame name for his finisher.

WINNER: Curt Hawkins in 5:00. Not a great match, rather bland and boring. These guys need more time to tell a story.

3 - KAITLYN vs. MAXINE

Maxine tries her usual power offense in a lock-up, but Kaitlyn pushes her down. Maxine charges and Kaitlyn responds with an arm drag. Kaitlyn with a kick, powerslam, and a leg drop for two. Maxine comes out of the cover swinging and jumps on Kaitlyns back with a sleeper attempt. Kaitlyn swings her off and catches her at her side and hits a backbreaker for two. Maxine hides in the corner, but when Kaitlyn pursues, Maxine trips her and Kaitlyn faceplants into the turnbuckle.

Maxine is quick to capitalize and smashes her face then chokes her in the ropes. Maxine covers for two and gets frustrated, so she moves to a side chinlock. She does her Sheamus-like punches to the chest. Kaitlyn fights out of the hold, but Maxine hits the ropes, jumps, and lands on Kaitlyn, putting her in a cravat-like hold while wrapping around her like a boa constrictor. Kaitlyn rams her into the corner to escape. Maxine charges, but eats an elbow. Kaitlyn with a dropkick. Maxine shoves Kaitlyn to the mat by the hair, and Bateman appears on the stage calling Maxine's name. Maxine stops for a moment, and Kaitlyn surprises her with a schoolgirl for the win.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 4:00. These two were a bit off tonight (common theme for the episode it feels like), but the match had potential. They were telling a story of Kaitlyn's power versus Maxine's submission holds, and it was interesting to see Maxine change her typical power offense because she was facing a larger, stronger opponent. Kaitlyn needs to work with Natalya and Beth Phoenix to tighten up her moves a bit.

4 - PERCY WATSON vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd actually wins an early lock-up, but Watson catches his foot, knocks him down, and then sends him into the corner. Watson with lots of speed offense, and knocks down Kidd. Kidd in the corner and Watson goes to work. Spinning side slam from Watson gets two. Kidd pulls Watson's arm over the rope and kicks him in the head, then follows with an enziguri. Kidd covers for two, then stomps on Watson a bit.

Snapmare from Kidd for two, then a Dragon Sleeper, but Watson gets out and hits a massive flapjack. Watson with a pair of dropkicks and a powerslam. Watson with an overhead throw for two. Watson puts Kidd on the turnbuckle, but Kidd fights the superplex and hotshots Watson on the ropes, then hits a springboard elbow drop for the win.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd in 5:00. It looks like Kidd is experimenting with finishers, as this was what he used during his debut on ECW. Good in-ring story here: Percy Watson was as fast as Tyson Kidd, and had power, but Kidd neutralized the power with submission holds and a high-flying, high-impact move. Watson looked like a star here, especially at the beginning of the match, with his cruiserweight-like speed.

5 - TITUS O'NEIL vs. JTG (w/Tamina)

JTG kicks Titus to start things out, but O'Neil makes a quick comeback. Back and forth in the corner, but O'Neil catches JTG off the ropes, hits a backbreaker and a fallaway slam, then throws JTG through the ropes. JTG suckers O'Neil in on the outside, then hits a series of knees and goes back to the ring. He pulls O'Neil in and continues to beat on JTG. Young starts to bicker with Striker as JTG settles into a side chinlock. Titus runs him into the turnbuckle a few times, then throws him off.

O'Neil runs over JTG with shoulder tackles and clotheslines, then Batista-Up's and hits the powerslam. JTG comes back with a drop down uppercut and a cover for two. Titus follows with the Clash of the Titus for the win.

Post-match: Young channels his inner Booker T with a "you gotta be kidding me," and goes to the steps to distract O'Neil. JTG then grabs O'Neil's leg, and Young throws off the sling to enter the ring and beat up O'Neil. He then hits his finisher on O'Neil

WINNER: Titus O'Neil in 4:00. Another angle instead of a match. This made no sense. Wouldn't Matt Striker, as the "host" with booking ability, want to have word from a doctor about Young's condition?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2011, 12:39 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 12-22-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_56247.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

A few days ago, my wife asked me where "the belly flop guy" was. I didn't know she meant Justin Gabriel until she imitated the way he sells his ribs after the 450 splash. According to Matt Striker, these two are fighting because Slater asked a girl out and she went to dinner with Gabriel instead. The two trade a bit of offense until Gabriel slows it down with an armbar. Slater fights out and they trade some more offense. Slater gets frustrated with his inability to put Gabriel away. The commentary feels really off, like perhaps they scrapped what was taped and replaced it with post-production work.

Slater retains control with his plodding attack. Slater's good at working an audience to get some heat, though. Gabriel finally turns it around and sends Slater tot he outside with a huracarana and Gabriel leaps over the top rope in a flip dive, rolls Slater into the ring and hits a springboard crossbody for two. Gabriel with a side Russian leg sweep and sets up for the 450 Splash, but Slater dodges. Gabriel charges Slater in the corner, but Slater gets a boot up. Slater heads tot he second rope but Gabriel kicks him mid-air and flapjacks him into the ropes. Gabriel with a 450 splash that the cameraman catches right up-close to get the win.

WINNER: Justin Gabriel in 7:00. Slater isn't great on offense, but he can work a crowd. Gabriel's the opposite, his offense looks good but he doesn't pull the audience into the match. It's not a good sign for Gabriel that my wife (representing the casual viewer), who used to really like him, can't even remember his name anymore.

2 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Donnie Marlow from FCW was given a name this week - Camacho. Jackson is growing some hair, which makes him look a bit older. Hunico has a great projection of thug-arrogance. Early lock-up, which Jackson wins. Hunico hides in the ropes. Hunico surprises Jackson with a kick to the shin, but Jackson cuts him off. Jackson grabs Hunico's arms, but Hunico uses it as leverage to kick Jackson's chest, then dropkicks a knee. Cover gets Hunico two, but the kickout sends him outside. Hunico goes back to the offense, but a single punch stuns him.

Jackson punches him again, then gorilla presses him up and down to show off, then drops him to the mat. Jackson with a pair of clotheslines in the corner, then the bodyslam sequence. Jackson sets up for a powerbomb, but Camacho distracts Jackson letting Hunico escape. Jackson charges Hunico in the corner, but gets tripped and lands face first into the turnbuckle. Hunico with a springboard mule kick. Jackson rolls into the ring a bit more and Hunico lands his Swanton Bomb finisher.

WINNER: Hunico in 5:00. Hunico looked good, Jackson looked bad. The distraction for the win was a bit typical as far as heel tactics go. Just once, I'd like the face to ignore the distraction with the attitude that a guy on the ringside yelling at him is less important than the person in the ring.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

They have a trial lockup, break, and jaw at each other a bit. McGillicutty controls with an armbar, but Riley reverses into an armbar of his own. McGillicutty gets a rope break. McGillicutty kicks Riley to the ground and beats on him a bit, but Riley lands an arm drag to turn things around. Riley with Ten Punches followed by a faceplant for two. Riley lands a clothesline to turn it around. McGillicutty with feet then rips off Sheamus with clubbing blows while Riley is tied up in the ropes, then pulls Riley through the ropes to land a neckbreaker for two.

McGillicutty with a side chinlock while the crowd chants "We Want Ryder." Riley tries to fight out but McGillicutty with a dropkick for two. McGillicutty with another chinlock. Riley fights out but McGillicutty sends him tot he outside. Riley surprises him with a dropkick when McGillicutty climbs through. Riley with a comeback, ends up with a spinebuster and then the Final Score for the win.

WINNER: Alex Riley in 6:00. Alex Riley is a keeper. His in-ring work is decent with potential for more, and his mic work is good. I don't know what McGillicutty brings to the table - it feels like he went to the JTG school of wrestling, which isn't a compliment.

4 - WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - non-title tag match

Bourne and Hawkins start off. Hawkins makes fun of Bourne's size, but Bourne surprises him with speedy kicks. Bourne with a quick huracarana and tags Kingston in. Kingston with a dropkick for two. Hawkins puts a knee into Kingston to turn it around and brings Reks in. Kingston surprises Reks with a neckbreak, but Reks turns it right around with a bodyslam and blows on the mat. Kingston with punches from the ground to get back in the game, but Reks sends him to the corner and tags in Hawkins. Quick offense and Reks comes back in.

Reks charges, but Kingston with a pendulum kick and a cover for one, dropkick and Bourne tags in. Kingston holds Reks for a double footstomp. Bourne kicks the hamstrings and covers for two. Kingston tags in and they hit a double bulldog. Kingston calls for the Trouble in Paradise but Reks rolls away and Hawkins tries to ambush Kingston, but Kingston throws him over the rope. Bourne and Kingston hit dives off the turnbuckles simultaneously.

Reks back with power offense and slows things down with an armbar. Bourne is looking for a tag as Reks punishes him. Bourne slips out and hits a knee to the jaw, then goes to the top rope. Hawkins moves in to interfere but Bourne jumps to the apron to elbow him off. Reks kicks Bourne as he comes back into the ring. Reks with a grounding offense and tags Hawkins in. Hawkins with a suplex for two. Reks comes back in. More offense and a chicken wing from Reks. Reks with a gutbuster of sorts for two. Hawkins comes back in. Hawkins continues to keep Bourne immobilized and near the corner, and hits his odd bodyslam, which gets two. Reks comes back in. Repeat of an earlier sequence, with Bourne slipping out of a bodyslam and landing a high knee.

Double tag and Kinsgton comes in with his typical hot tag moveset. Hawkins counters the SOS but Kingston comes back with his springboard turnaround high crossbody for two. Kingston with a Superman punch and the Boom Drop. He looks for the Trouble in Paradise, but Reks grabs his leg. Hawkins tries to follow up but eats an SOS. Reks breaks up the pin, then hits Bourne who tries to come in. Bourne lowers the rope when Reks charges, so Reks goes out of the ring. Hawkins runs at Bourne, but gets a kick to the back of the head. Kingston with the Trouble in Paradise, then he tags Bourne, who gets Air Bourne for the win.

WINNER: Air Boom in 10:00. I like the skills of both Kofi Kingtson and Evan Bourne, but they put on the most formulaic tag team matches around. Every cliche is there. It's wearing thin, and if the TV audience saw as much of it as I do on Superstars, an Air Boom match would be the signal to head to the bathroom.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2011, 12:40 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 12-23-11

1 – CODY RHODES vs. ZACK RYDER

Cody stared at Booker from the ring before Ryder came out. When Ryder made his entrance, they showed a still photo from TLC of Ryder celebrating his US Title win with his father. Cole said Ryder is a fad, like mood rings. Ryder caught Rhodes with a back elbow, followed by a few arm-drags. Rhodes hit the mat and gave Ryder an uppercut, a la his brother Goldust. Cody clotheslined Ryder to the apron, then kicked his knee, sending Ryder to ringside. Rhodes shoved Ryder into Booker, who stayed at the announce table. He gave Rhodes an icy stare as they went to break 2:30 into the match.

Back at 5:55 of the match. Rhodes connected on the Alabama Slam for two. Mathews reminded viewers that he used that move to be Santino on Monday. Nice touch there to mention that. Ryder ran the ropes, but Rhodes ducked a cross-body attempt by Ryder, causing him to get tangled in the ropes. The two men ran into each other, knocking heads. Ryder was up first and began to roll at the 8:00 mark. Broski Boot found the mark for a near-fall at 8:41. Rhodes side-stepped a middle-rope dropkick. Booker all of a sudden said he was in the Holiday spirit and grabbed a mic. He stood atop the announce table and sang “Cody the Red-Nosed Reindeer” with altered lyrics. That distraction allowed Ryder to hit the Rough Ryder for the win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 9:33. It appears the Rhodes vs. Booker feud will continue. Good, even match-up, as it should be between two secondary title holders.

2 – THE MIZ vs. SHEAMUS

Sheamus had to chase Miz around the ring in the opening minute, and Miz caught him and worked the arm. He shoved Sheamus arm-first into the ring post. Cover by Miz for only one. Corner clothesline connected, as did a running boot. Then another. Miz worked over Sheamus in the corner and the referee almost reached five in his count. Sheamus came back with the Irish Curse back-breaker. He set up for the Celtic Cross, but Miz snuck out the back. Sheamus shrugged off the Skull Crushing Finale and hit the Brogue Kick for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 3:02. Surprised Sheamus disposed of Miz so quickly. Sheamus has been running through competition but they don’t see to have much for him or are biding time until Christian returns.

3 – PRIMO vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Rosa and Epico were out with Primo, who was already in the ring. Primo jumped Kofi at the bell and corralled Kofi, landing a side Russian leg-sweep. Primo continued to own the opening minute, sweeping Kofi’s leg and hitting an elbowdrop for two. The tide turned at 1:39 when Primo missed a corner splash. Kofi hit some chops then a dropkick. Top rope cross-body for two. Flip kick by Kingston. A distraction by Epico caused Primo to arm-drag Kofi off the top rope for a near-fall. Primo seemed put off by the fact that he couldn’t pick up the win there. He charged at Kofi, who ducked and hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Kingston, at 3:07. Fine match to further this tag-team feud. Primo and Epico have gotten wins, but they were on Superstars – perhaps they need a few wins over Bourne and/or Kingston to legitimize them on Smackdown.

4 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Booker didn’t know the title wasn’t on the line here until Cole corrected him. Ziggler attempted a leap-frog and Bryan grabbed Ziggler’s leg in mid-air and took him down. Bryan then applied a surfboard, one of my favorite underutilized moves. Bryan missed a dropkick when Ziggler held onto the ropes, and Ziggler took advantage by kicking away at Bryan. Ziggler proceeded to do sit-ups near Bryan’s fallen body. Bryan grabbed Ziggler’s arm with his feet to attempt the LeBell Lock, but Ziggler got to the ropes. Bryan charged at Ziggler in the corner and Ziggler gave him a drop-toe hold, then an inverted slam for a near-fall. The show went to break at 3:07.

Back at 6:29 of the contest. Dropkick by Ziggler put Bryan back onto the mat. The two men had a mid-air collision when both went for cross-body blocks. At 7:35, Jack Swagger walked to ringside. Bryan back-dropped Ziggler out of the ring. Bryan then hit a suicide dive onto Ziggler. With the ref distracted by Vickie, Swagger ran right over Bryan on the outside. After that took place, Big Show came out to even up the odds. Ziggler applied a sleepr hold but Bryan rolled out. Roll-up by Bryan turned into a German suplex for two. Bryan kicked at Ziggler’s chest. Ziggler tried a Zig Zag, but Bryan awkwardly shoved him off (looks like Ziggler may have come up short on the move) and landed a straight kick to Ziggler’s head. That only garnered him a two-count. Hurricanrana off the top by Bryan, but Ziggler rolled through, then a fameasser for two. Ziggler set Bryan on the top rope, but Bryan slid out between Ziggler’s legs. Back suplex off the top rope by Bryan. Bryan crawled for the cover, but Ziggler put his foot on the bottom rope. With both men down, Swagger tried to attack Show outside the ring. It didn’t work and Swagger entered the ring. Show grabbed Swagger in a choke but Long came out and turned this into a singles match, in a move he said would make everyone happy. I’m not happy.

WINNER: No Contest, about 13:03. Tremendous, tremendous match. Disappointing result.

5 – DANIEL BRYAN & BIG SHOW vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER

Show was owning Swagger out of break. Ziggler wasn’t enthused when Swagger tagged him in. Show took out his frustrations on Ziggler next. Show slammed Ziggler in the face corner, then asked Bryan if he was ready to finish it. Bryan nodded and tagged in. Lots of hard kicks in the corner to Ziggler. Bryan tried a running dropkick in the corner, but missed and landed on the back of his head. Swagger made the tag and hit the Swagger Bomb for two. Bryan fought out of the heel corner, but Swagger grabbed him and hung him up on the top rope. Ziggler torqued Bryan’s leg while the ref was distracted. Ziggler and Swagger both worked the leg and ankle of Bryan. Ziggler jumped on Bryan’s back and applied the sleeper. He didn’t have it on long as Bryan ran him into the ring post and out of the ring. Ziggler held his knee in pain, even after he went shoulder-first into the ring post. Could’ve been legit hurt, in that case. Show tagged in and kept Ziggler at bay while taking it to Swagger. Swagger hit Show from behind in the leg. Bryan tagged himself in but fell victim to the ankle-lock. Bryan countered with the LeBell Lock for the submission win.

WINNERS: Bryan and Show, 6:54 shown.

Bryan celebrated with the title in the ring while Show looked on from ringside. They showed a few highlights from the one-on-one match, then the tag match. Mathews wished everyone Happy Holidays as they signed off.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2011, 12:43 pm
ROH Final Battle iPPV Results: 12-23-11 (next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/otherppvs/article_56272.shtml)

1 -- MICHAEL ELGIN (w/Truth Martini) vs. T.J. PERKINS

This was all about Elgin's power vs. Perkins's speed and agility, which often intersected with power counters to T.J.'s high-flying offense and quick counters to Elgin's power offense. For the finish, Perkins tried to flip the match formula with a Samoan Drop, but Elgin easily escaped and delivered a buckle bomb into a spinning powerbomb for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Elgin at 7:25. Fine opening match to get the crowd warmed up and continue building Elgin's march to ROH World Title level.

2 -- TOMMASO CIAMPA (w/The Embassy) vs. JIMMY RAVE

The ultra-intense Ciampa tried to get under Rave's skin early on, but Rave acted unfazed. The action then moved to the outside, where Ciampa took control. Back in the ring, Ciampa landed multiple corner knee strikes for a nearfall. Rave came back with a Rave Clash at 7:00 for a close nearfall that nearly ended Ciampa's undefeated singles streak. The crowd chanted, "A-J-Styles," after the move.

Rave went for his finisher, but Prince Nana hopped on the ring apron to distract Rave with an offer to rejoin the Embassy. Chaos ensued with interference from all directions, leading to Ciampa finishing off Rave for the pin and the win. Afterward, Ciampa received Rave's old robe to be coronated as the Embassy's crown jewel. Meanwhile, Kelly wondered what the future holds for Rave after flying 26 hours from India to be part of the show.

WINNER: Ciampa at 8:33.

3 -- TV champion JAY LETHAL vs. EL GENERICO vs. "THE PRODIGY" MIKE BENNETT (w/Maria and "Brutal" Bob Evans) -- ROH TV Title match -- triple threat elimination match

Bennett bailed from the ring to let Lethal and Generico wrestle. Generico teased wrestling Lethal, then jumped to the outside and Lethal joined him to knock Bennett back and forth with right hands. Bennett scampered back into the ring, where Generico and Lethal met him to deliver more offense. Bennett returned to the floor, then G&L delivered dual flip dives to send Bennett crashing into the guardrail. Bennett spent the next several minutes "recovering" on the floor, allowing Generico and Lethal to battle in the ring.

The match moved to the outside, where Bennett threw Maria in harm's way to slow down Generico. Generico, a fine gentleman, gently moved Maria out of the way, which allowed Bennett to cheap-shot him. Back in the ring, a rapid-fire sequence put all three men on the mat. Bennett then scored an apparent three on Lethal, but the ref stopped short and the match continued with all three men. Generico suddenly got a burst of energy for a double-rope splash onto Lethal on the outside, which he followed right up with a suicide dive through the turnbuckle into a tornado DDT on Bennett. Back in the ring, it was only good for a nearfall on Bennett.

Lethal then went up top for a Macho Man elbow drop on Generico for a nearfall. Lethal tried again, but Generico blocked and they battled up top. Bennett broke it up, though, and rolled up Generico from behind with a handful of tights for an elimination at 18:03. Lethal followed right up with the Lethal Injection on Bennett. It was good for a pin and the win moments later. Post-match: Bennett quickly left the ring with Maria and Bob before Generico and Lethal shook hands in the ring.

WINNER: Lethal at 18:17. Excellent work from Generico to accelerate the match leading to the finish and save it from being a disappointment. Bennett is developing as a heel, but not there yet. (**1/2)

4 -- KEVIN STEEN vs. STEVE CORINO -- Jimmy Jacobs special referee -- No DQ match -- Steen reinstated if he wins -- Steen gone for good if he loses

The fight quickly moved to the floor, where Steen delivered a running cannonball splash onto Corino against the ringpost. Suddenly, Corino recovered and flew off the apron with a splash onto Steen. Back in the ring, Corino used a controlled chair strike to the top of Steen's head to subdue Steen, but Steen came back with a big splash once they returned to the floor. Steen's next move was removing a portion of a guardrail cover, which he used to bop Corino in the face.

Next, Steen powerbombed Corino back-first across a chair while the chair was draped across a corner guardrail. Steen had a good laugh, then talked into Nigel's headphones that he's glad to see him again. Kelly said there's a Brian Pillman-like streak in Steen as he went for his next move: a table. Steen wanted a powerbomb through the table on the outside, but Corino blocked with a left-arm lariat. Corino then tossed a trashcan and multiple chairs into the ring. Steen ducked a shot, then blasted Corino with a trashcan lid to the face.

Corino came up bleeding heavily from his left ear, but mule kicked Steen out of desperation to slow down Steen. Corino followed with trashcan shots to the head, then he slammed Steen back-first onto a pile of chairs. Corino followed with a top-rope splash for a two count. The crowd picked up a dueling chant in favor of each man while Corino set up an elaborate chairs and guardrail spot mid-ring. Nigel said this is beyond pro wrestling and could end someone's career or life. They moved up top, where Corino delivered a superplex into the guardrail draped across the chairs. The crowd popped as Corino made a cover, but Steen kicked out, much to Cornette's dismay.

Steen and Corino reset after the nearfall with Steen landing a chair shot across the back. They returned to the top turnbuckle to tease another superplex spot. This time, Steen bit Corino's ear, but Corino hopped off the top turnbuckle, grabbed a lid, smashed Steen in the face, and Steen fell off the top through a table and chairs on the floor below. It took Corino a while to get Steen back into the ring to make a cover, which allowed Steen to kick out in time. Steen then found a burst of energy for a suplex through the seat of a chair, but Corino kicked out.

At 20:00, Steen measured Corino for a final chair shot. Corino spit in his face, which encouraged Steen to deliver a chair shot to the back of Corino's neck. Steen made a cover, but Corino kicked out. Steen wanted another chair shot, but ref Jacobs yanked the chair away from him. In the confusion, Corino retrieved some sort of foreign object to pop Steen in the face with, but Steen kicked out again. The crowd was hushed waiting to see what the final blow would be. Corino set up another set of chairs mid-ring, but Steen punched Corino low, then delivered a Package Piledriver through the chairs. Steen made a cover for a one...slow count....two...Jacobs paused to look at Cornette not wanting to make the final count...three.

Post-match: Steen celebrated by himself, then declared that the devil is back in ROH. As Cornette and Jacobs checked on Corino, Steen said he came here to do three things. (1) Destroy Corino and win his job back. (2) Steen scooped up Jacobs to deliver a Package Piledriver. Nigel wanted to know what #3 is.

Steen stared down Cornette and lifted up three fingers. Cornette begged off, then Steen grabbed Cornette, but El Generico hit the ring to stare down Steen. Kelly noted Generico eradicated Steen from ROH 12 months ago at Final Battle 2010. Generico and Steen fought, with Generico getting the advantage until Steen blocked a top-rope brainbuster attempt. Steen then delivered a Package Piledriver off the apron through the scraps of a table ringside. Generico sold being KO'ed as Steen re-entered the ring to celebrate his return to ROH. To "sell the moment," Nigel dropped his headsets to check on Generico. Kelly recapped Steen returning to ROH as Cornette tried to make sense of what was going on. Cruise requested medical personnel to ringside to check on Generico, who was selling a neck injury. Only one ref seemed to be concerned with Corino in the ring. Kelly then sent the show to intermission.

WINNER: Steen at 23:13. Sick, crazy match that only happens once in a blue moon...and for good reason with too many blows to the head/neck region. As for the wrestlers involved, Steen adds such a strong presence to ROH's roster that has been missing for the past year. Steen is a stand-out, crazed, monster heel that can help drive ROH business on top of the roster going forward. Another round of Steen vs. Generico one year removed from their 2010 feud would not be a bad thing, either.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 25 2011, 12:44 pm
5 -- TAG TEAM GAUNTLET MATCH -- winning team receives future Tag Title shot

The Bravado Brothers were eliminated by Caprice Coleman & Cedric Alexander in the opening portion of the match. Future Shock came out next to face C&C. After a nice back and forth match, Alexander found himself trapped in a double-team from Cole & O'Reilly for a pinfall. Coleman & Alexander were eliminated, bringing out the Young Bucks with their cocky attitude. The Bucks dominated Cole & O'Reilly early on before Cole subdued Nick Jackson with nine straight rolling butterfly suplexes. Impressive. The action broke down, leading to the Bucks's double-team More Bang For Your Buck combination for a pin on Cole.

Out last was an injured All Night Express team to face off with the Bucks. Before Kenny King and Rhett Titus even entered the ring, the Bucks met them on the floor. The action eventually entered the ring with the Bucks in control of King as Titus sold on the floor. Titus eventually made it to the ring apron to receive a hot tag and clean house. The action broke down moments later, then the Bucks targeted Titus's injured knee.

For the inish, Matt Jackson slapped on a spinning toehold, Titus screamed in pain, and Nick stood up-top ready to inflict more damage. Titus refused to tap, so Nick came off the top with a 450 splash to the injured knee. The ref then called for the bell to "save Titus" from future injury. After the Bucks won, Nick went back up top for another 450 splash on Titus to add insult to injury. Afterward, Titus was helped out of the ring to continue selling the injury.

WINNERS: Young Bucks at 29:36 to receive a future Tag Title shot. Good ending focusing on the Bucks's resurgence as a heel team and trying to establish more credibility for Titus. The overall match was a bit long and the crowd lost interest at times, but it did spotlight ROH's strong tag division.

6 -- RODERICK STRONG INVITATIONAL CHALLENGE
 
The bell sounded and Truth Martini slowly began counting to ten to give Strong a count-out victory. Martini was almost too entertaining making comments in-between each number. When he hit nine, the Kings of Wrestling music played to bring out Chris Hero to a big reaction making his return to ROH. Strong threw a fit as Hero made his way into the ring. The bell re-sounded to officially start the match.
 
6b -- RODERICK STRONG (w/Truth Martini) vs. CHRIS HERO

Hero blasted Strong with an early boot to the face as Martini complained to Kevin Kelly about not being informed of this development in advance. The match moved to the floor, where Martini snuck in a shot to Hero's face using the Book of Truth. That allowed Strong to take control of the match back in the ring. Strong continued to wear down Hero, including a six-move combination into a Gibson Driver for a close nearfall. This woke up the crowd to get them behind Hero, who nailed a roaring elbow and kick strike for a close nearfall. Hero tried another pin, but Truth Martini ran into the ring to grab Hero's foot. Truth tried to run away, but Hero chased him around the ring. In the subsequent chaos, Hero big-booted Truth, then Strong sick kicked Hero for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Strong at 16:37. Although it remains to be seen, this came across like a one-off for Hero based on him putting over Strong, even with the interference. The crowd reacted to Hero's return to ROH, but didn't seem to invest in the match beyond Hero's return. (**1/2)
 
7 -- ROH tag champions CHARLIE HAAS & SHELTON BENJAMIN vs. THE BRISCOES -- ROH Tag Title match
 
The tag champs were still in the ring, now with Mark Briscoe in the ring and Jay limping around on the outside. Shelton went for his Leap of Faith again, but Jay suddenly slipped back into the ring to intercept Shelton with a superkick to a big reaction. Jay and Charlie then came face-to-face for a rapid-fire exchange of blows. After their exchange, Shelton targeted Mark with a splash, but that re-injured his ribs. The Briscoes then went to work on Shelton's ribs with methodical offense.
 
Haas took a tag for the tag champs at 5:00 and mounted an offensive attack in-between insults to the crowd. Haas executed a triple German Suplex combo on Jay, then slapped on the Haas of Pain. Mark tried to break it up with a splash, but Shelton tried to intercept, only to have Mark splash Shelton's ribs. As a result, the ref called for more refs to come check on Shelton. Shelton was taken to the back, leaving Haas alone in the ring with the Briscoes.

The Briscoes couldn't put Haas away, though, and Shelton crawled back to the ring. The ref was bumped during this sequence and Shelton used a 2x4 to crack over the Briscoes. The crowd entertained themselves with a Hacksaw Duggan Hooooo! and U-S-A chant. After this sequence, the Briscoes set up Haas for a Doomsday Device and connected. Cover, three count, and new ROH tag champions.
 
WINNERS: Briscoes at 13:24 to capture the ROH Tag Titles. A tag title change was the only way the crowd was going to be happy with this match after another round of mainstream wrestling booking with a ref bump involved here. Throw in another round of chair shots to the head and an indictment of the booking with the crowd entertaining themselves and this was a disappointing match. Meanwhile, Haas & Benjamin as heels has a good chance to help advance the tag division. (**)
 
8 -- ROH World champion DAVEY RICHARDS (w/Team Richards) vs. EDDIE EDWARDS (w/Dan Severn) -- ROH World Title match
 
Richards dominated the first stage of the match, showing superior fitness and striking. Edwards then took control with submission holds for the next stage of the match. He followed with Bryan Danielson-style repeated strikes to the chest, which only fired up Richards. The two men came face-to-face center-ring for an exchange of blows and strikes. Next was an exchange of headbutts while positioned on the top turnbuckle. Neither man gained the advantage, then the two men suplexed themselves over the top rope clear down to the floor, which drew oohs and aahs from the crowd.
 
The two men re-entered the ring at a 19 count, leading to another mid-ring exchange. Richards got the best of it, then Edwards challenged him with a slap to the face. Another mid-ring exchange of slaps and strikes. The two men were dizzied, then traded suplexes and popped to their feet after each one. They KO'ed each other with kick strikes, then Roderick Strong came down to ringside. Strong picked a fight with Team Richards, then Dan Severn stalked Strong. Severn teed off on Strong before House of Truth came down to ringside. Severn dragged Truth away, then everyone seemed to disappear ringside.
 
In the ring, Richards and Edwards stood up and slowly came face-to-face to get the focus back on them. They traded forearm strikes again before Eddie dropped Richards on the mat with a suplex that seemed to KO Richards. Edwards opted to pick up Richards for a top-rope move instead of making a cover, though. On the mat, Edwards delivered power move after power move, but Richards continued to kick out. Edwards then hit a Tombstone Piledriver into his Diehard suplex, but Richards kicked out just before three.
 
The action reset with the two men back up top. Richards tried a sunset flip powerbomb, but Edwards blocked. Richards regrouped and delivered a top-rope full nelson superplex for another close two count. The fans stomped their feet on the ground before chanting, "R-O-H." The match then moved to the ring apron, where they traded blows again. In the process, Edwards ate the ring apron and fell to the ground. Edwards needed a 19 count to re-enter the ring, then Richards suplexed Edwards onto the ring apron again. Richards asked for a quick count as Eddie struggled to recover on the floor. Edwards made a desperation leap into the ring before 20 and the match continued.
 
They reset again. Richards stood up and glared down at Edwards, who crawled toward him. Richards delivered repeated kick strikes to the head, but Edwards kicked out again. Richards then slapped on an anklelock, but Edwards rolled into a quick two count. Richards went right back to the anklelock, dropped the hold, and kicked Edwards in the head for another two count. Richards then measured Edwards again and said this is over. Richards with a kick, then a roundhouse kick to the head. Richards made a cover and it was good for the three count.
 
Post-match: Richards took a knee next to Edwards to check on his former tag partner. Richards then took the house mic and paced the ring. He said Jim Cornette pulled him aside earlier in the day to make sure they talk each other up after the match. Richards then looked at Edwards to tell him when he's ready to be his brother again, he'll be ready for him.
 
Suddenly, a mocking voice was heard. Kevin Steen walked out on-stage and mocked Richards before calling him a mf'er (unbleeped). Richards had to be held back as Steen continued his promo. Steen vowed to take the ROH World Title from Richards and hold ROH hostage. Steen flipped off Richards before disappearing to the back. Richards then ranted on everyone ringside, wanting answers. Severn returned to check on Edwards as they signed off with Richards and Edwards in the ring after their main event.
 
WINNER: Richards at 41:21 to retain the ROH World Title. Richards vs. Steen could be the type of epic title match ROH needs as a change of pace from the Richards-Edwards series. Not that there was anything wrong with Richards-Edwards, but they have such similar styles that there are only so many "evenly matched, stand-in-the-middle-of-the-ring and trade blows" type exchanges you can have in a 40-minute match before it wears on the audience. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on December 28 2011, 10:07 am
WWE RAW Results: 12-26-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_56301.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. BOOKER T -- non-title match

Before the bell sounded, they replayed footage from Smackdown when Booker sang Christmas tunes for Rhodes, causing Rhodes to lose to Zack Ryder. Back live, Cole complained about everything before the bell sounded. Booker teased the scissors kick early on, but Cody ducked and delivered a swinging neckbreaker. Cody followed with an exposed knee to the mid-section, followed by kicks and stomps. Rhodes then dumped Booker to the outside and they cut to break.

Back from break, Rhodes was wearing down Booker in the ring. Meanwhile, Cole and Lawler debated when a wrestler is too old. Lawler said you can be as old as you want in WWE because it's an individual sport, as opposed to a team sport, where an athlete could drag down a team. Rhodes continued to wear down Booker, who then fought out of a corner with blows, but Rhodes responded with a dropkick that floored Booker again. The crowd tried to rally behind Booker, who continued to take a beating.

Booker finally mounted some offense with a corner attack before landing a flying forearm and a series of clotheslines. Booker followed with a sidewalk slam for a two count. Booker got that look in his eyes, then rolled up Rhodes out of the corner for a two count. Rhodes responded with a quick pin attempt, but Booker escaped. Booker then wanted an axe kick, but Rhodes ducked. He then scored with a Disaster Kick that he almost turned into a missile dropkick. Booker kicked out of a pin attempt in time, though. Rhodes tried Cross Rhodes, but Booker blocked and landed a back kick. Booker, sucking wind, missed with a kick, but hit the axe kick moments later. Booker made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Booker at 12:03. Is Booker retiring for good? They acted like this was Booker's retirement match with Rhodes putting him over to have a feel-good send-off. It will be interesting to see what the fall-out is. Overall, good match that effectively built to a clean finish. (**1/4)

2 -- U.S. champion ZACK RYDER & EVE vs. TYSON KIDD & NATALYA -- mixed tag match

Back from commercial, Tyson Kidd and Natalya were in the ring as the opponents. As the action started, Cole told viewers to mark down July 23, 2012. Cole said that will be the 1,000th episode of Raw. He also noted Cena is coming up soon to address Kane again. After the Divas battled, Ryder took a tag, which also brought in Kidd. The action broke down and Team Ryder delivered stereo Broski Boots. Ryder followed with the Rough Ryder on Kidd for the pin and the win. Post-match: Ryder and Eve fist-pumped for the crowd before Ryder handed his title belt to Eve to hold for a second.

WINNERS: Ryder & Eve at 3:03.

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ

Cena and Miz started this impromptu match-up with some basic back-and-forth feeling each other out. Lawler equated Miz to Cousin Eddie showing up at Christmas uninvited. Great "Christmas Vacation" reference. The crowd picked up a dueling chant for and against Cena, which led to Miz leaving the ring. Miz took the mic and said he's done with this match. the ref was applying a ten count as Miz continued to rant and rave. Miz noted he beat Cena at WrestleMania because all that matters is he beat Cena on the grandest stage of them all. The bell then sounded, indicating a count-out.

WINNER: Cena via count-out at 2:23.

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Otunga tried to run around Show, who trapped Otunga's foot in-between his legs before landing some left arm chops. Otunga continued to run around Show before taking a headbutt. Show then one-handed Otunga over the top rope to the floor. Suddenly, Mark Henry's music played. Henry came out to the ring as Show appeared to escape the knot tied around his arm. Meanwhile, the ref called for the bell, apparently ending the match.

WINNER: Show via DQ at 2:01. There are a lot of moving parts on this show this week.

5 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK RUNS THE GAUNTLET

In-ring: Justin Roberts introduced a "special" gauntlet match. Roberts set the ground rules for the match before Jack Swagger came out along with Vickie Guerrero. The crowd booed Swagger before Cult of Personality played for the third time tonight. Punk came out to a strong reaction, but not like the opening segment with the law of diminishing returns in-play. Before the bell sounded, Cole advertised Kane in the building later tonight.

5a -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

As Punk and Swagger started the action, Cole went back to July when Punk won the WWE Title, walked out of WWE, and began his revolution to change WWE "for good or for bad." Punk scored with a hard kick to the face as Cole went through the timeline of Punk's last five months in WWE. A pro-Punk chant started up as Swagger tried to wear down Punk. Swagger targeted Punk's mid-section before trying a Swagger Bomb, but Punk caught him in mid-air. After teased moves on both sides, Punk delivered a big roundhouse kick to the head that KO'ed Swagger for a three count.

WINNER: Punk at 3:26.

As Dolph Ziggler made his way to the ring to face Punk next, Swagger attacked Punk from behind, targeting Punk's left leg. Ziggler wanted to start the match right away, but ref Scott Armstrong checked on Punk to make sure he could still compete before ringing the bell. Punk nodded his head up and down before they suddenly cut to break.

5b -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jack Swagger) -- non-title match

Back from break, the match was already in progress with Ziggler working on Punk's injured left leg. The crowd to rally behind Punk, who suddenly tried a small package, but Ziggler kicked out. Ziggler then resumed the attack.

Ziggler sat down on a half-Boston Crab as Punk resisted tapping out. Punk crawled and crawled toward the bottom rope before reaching out to break the hold. Ziggler nearly got himself DQ'ed by not breaking until four. Punk, now on his feet, landed right hand blows and chops, followed by a standing back kick and punt to the gut. Punk followed with punishing right leg kicks to the back before delivering another KO kick to the head. This time, Ziggler kicked out. Vickie and Swagger then ran interference, which allowed Ziggler to hit the Zig-Zag for a close nearfall.

Suddenly, Laurinaitis came down to ringside and marched over to the timekeeper's table. Laurinaitis grabbed the mic and said there has been an injustice here tonight. Suddenly, Punk had a cover as Laurinaitis occupied the referee on the mic. Laurinaitis tossed Vickie and Swagger from ringside, which disallowed the ref from counting a three for Punk. Laurinaitis then got on the ring apron to talk to Punk. Suddenly, Ziggler dropped Punk from behind with the Zig-Zag and Laurinaitis stopped talking. Ziggler made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 7:32; Ziggler gets a WWE Title shot next week. A sample of the 15-25-minute match they could have next week to start 2011. It will be interesting to see if Ziggler wins next week, then if WWE uses Ziggler as a transitional champion to get the belt to Cena ahead of WM28 (if Cena vs. Rock will actually be for the WWE Title) so that Cena doesn't take the belt from Punk.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 09 2012, 02:06 pm
I've been gone the last two weeks so for those who want to read the past TV wrestling results, go over to the Neo-Geo Forum's Official WWE Thread. Link's under my signature pic. Thank you.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 09 2012, 02:07 pm
TNA Genesis PPV Results: 1-8-12 (next 3 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_56739.shtml)

1 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. KID KASH vs. JESSE SORENSEN vs. ZEMA ION -- X Division Title match -- four-corners elimination match

The bell sounded and Aries mocked the classic slow-clap at a wrestling event before bailing from the ring to let the other three wrestlers battle. Moments later, Kash followed Aries's lead, allowing Sorensen and Ion to trade rapid-fire moves. Kash eventually re-entered for a three-way Tower of Doom spot. Aries then tried to sneak in a pin on all three, but they all kicked out. The action then moved to the floor, where Sorensen nailed a flip-dive onto all three opponents.

Back in the ring, Aries connected with a 450 splash on Sorensen, but Sorensen kicked out, drawing a "Jesse, Jesse" chant. Sorensen then came back with a close nearfall on Aries following a top-rope splash. Kash was eliminated, then the action broke down moments later with the three remaining. Sorensen pulled out a quick small package pin on Ion for the next elimination. Moments later, Sorensen had a pin on Aries, but Ion still had the referee occupied complaining about his elimination. It allowed Aries to kick out of a pin when the ref finally came around to making a count.

Even after the referee dispute, Ion did not leave the ringside area, which allowed Ion to pull Sorensen's foot from the floor as Sorensen was perched on the top rope. It allowed Aries to crotch Sorensen, then deliver an Avalanche Brainbuster, as called by Tenay, to allow Aries to score the pin for the win. Afterward, Ion applauded his work ringside before Aries took a bow with the X Division Title belt.

WINNER: Aries at 10:50 to retain the X Division Title.

2 -- "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO vs. DEVON
 
Pope came out first with Devon's sons, then Devon stormed the ring to begin the fight before the bell sounded. Devon continued the onslaught, included rapid-fire rights as TNA zoomed in to expose the pulled punches. Pope then "inadvertently" bumped the ref into the top rope, causing Devon to be crotched on the top turnbuckle. Pope followed with an assault as the crowd tried to rally behind Devon. Pope included repeated stomps in his attack, drawing Ron Garvin references from the announcers. They cut to a shot of Terrence and Terrell watching ringside as Pope continued the assault.
 
Pope then randomly asked for T&T to enter the ring. The ref told them to get out of the ring, but T&T remained in the ring. They didn't immediately follow Pope's instructions, drawing Pope's ire. Pope then blasted both sons, revealing his true colors. Devon fired himself up Ultimate Warrior-style, then blasted Pope with repeated blows. Devon fired up the crowd, then delivered a powerslam for a nearfall. Pope came back with an uppercut, though, before Devon delivered a flying shoulder tackle for a nearfall. Pope cut off Devon's attack again, though, as they continued to lose a crowd that was hot for the expected finish moments earlier. Pope tried his exposed knees corner finisher, but Devon avoided and delivered a lift-up reverse DDT for the pin and the win. Afterward, T&T slowly re-entered the ring and approached Devon to hug and re-unite.
 
WINNER: Devon at 10:20. They had the "feel-good" finish after Pope showed his true colors, then randomly went to a back-and-forth exchange that took the crowd out of the finish and poured water on a potential hot ending. (*1/4)

3 -- GUNNER (w/Ric Flair) vs. ROB VAN DAM
 
The crowd chanted RVD's name throughout the opening five minutes as RVD regularly exchanged looks with Flair ringside. Also, the PPV feed froze momentarily during the opening. Flair came into play late in the match when ref Earl Hebner became occupied with Flair on the floor. Behind the ref's back, Gunner dropped RVD on the exposed concrete with a DDT, playing off his recent TV matches. RVD sold being knocked out, then Gunner rolled RVD into the ring for a pin and the win. Post-match, Hebner did the "X" signal to bring out referees, agents, and medical personnel to place RVD in a neckbrace and put him on a stretcher. Flair tried to pick a fight with Al Snow and D-Lo Brown before leaving with Gunner. While on a backboard, RVD tried to fight the medical assistance, selling that he did not want to leave the ring in a neckbrace. RVD was stretchered to the back to conclude the segment.
 
WINNER: Gunner at 6:50. With RVD's contract reportedly coming due soon, the injury angle came across like a write-off, but that remains to be seen. Regardless, TNA needs to follow up on TV to continue building up Gunner as an imposing heel.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 09 2012, 02:08 pm
4 -- Knockouts champion GAIL KIM (w/Madison Rayne) vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match
 
Gail jumped Mickie as the bell sounded to put Mickie's focus on the match, rather than Madison in the cage. Gail then continued the assault as Mickie struggled to make a comeback. When the match moved to the floor, Mickie finally scored some offense before picking up a nearfall back in the ring. The action came to a halt moments later when Madison tossed brass knuckles into the ring from the cage. (That was a little too convenient based on the storyline that Madison did not know in advance she would be in a cage.) After the knucks came into play, the ref reprimanded Madison and Gail, then Madison tossed down another set of brass knucks as the ref turned his back. This time, Mickie grabbed the knucks, used them on Gail, and the ref turned around to see the smoking gun, causing a DQ. Afterward, Velvet consoled an upset Mickie, who slowly walked out of the ring selling frustration.
 
WINNER: Gail via DQ at 6:20. Another non-clean finish for a Knockouts Title match, as expected following TNA's booking pattern.

5 -- ABYSS vs. BULLY RAY -- Monster's Ball match
 
The two men felt each other out with weapons shots that were blocked or no-sold. Abyss finally had enough of the duel and went under the ring to retrieve his trust Janice barbed wire board. Ray saw it, then bailed from the ring and said he was leaving. Ray walked to the back, so Ray followed him to the back. Suddenly, Ray re-emerged and Abyss love-tapped him back down the entrance ramp toward the ring. The crowd was taken out of the match during the disappearance and slow-motion re-emergence.
 
Back ringside, Abyss started bleeding after brushing up against some barbed wire positioned ringside. Abyss shook it off, rolled Ray back into the ring, and went back under the ring to find his bags of fun from the mid-2000s TNA PPV era. Also in-play was a cheese grater, which Abyss drove into Ray's crotchal region. Abyss then went into the bag of tricks to dump thumbtacks on the mat. Abyss tried a tack slam, but Ray low-blowed Abyss to block. Ray went for comedy complaining about the state of his balls following the cheese grater spot, then introduced a table into the ring. Abyss "turned the tables" on Ray, though, with a chokeslam through the table that scored a nearfall.
 
Abyss went back to the outside, where he found two barbed wire boards to toss into the ring. Ray used the break to catch his breath, though, and slam Abyss into one of the boards, drawing gasps from the crowd. Ray made a cover, but Abyss rolled a shoulder to escape the pin. Ray made a sandwich with the other board, then came off the second rope with a splash onto the barbed wire sandwich. Abyss kicked out again, though. Ray then tried to use Janice on Abyss, but Abyss blocked and chokeslammed Ray into the thumbtacks. Ray kicked out of the pin, though, surprising the crowd.
 
Ray recovered moments later and began blasting away on Abyss with Kendo stick shots. Ray took his time in-between shots, though, which allowed Abyss to regain his strength and deliver a Black Hole Slam into one of the barbed wire boards. Abyss made the cover on the board and it was good for a pin and the win this time.
 
WINNER: Abyss at 15:28. Abyss could go 20 years without doing this match and it would still seem like it's too soon. But, if they toned it down two notched, they still could have accomplished the goal of getting over Abyss as a dominant monster. TNA tried to present the match as "fresh" since it's been a while since Abyss has done this type of match, but it still reeks of mid-2000s TNA when Abyss tried to use every stunt in the book to get over. Saving this type of match for a true blow-off in a main event that TNA really builds up on TV and tries to get people to pay money to see would at least be understandable.

6 -- TNA tag champions MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON vs. SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS -- TNA Tag Title match
 
Morgan and Joe started things off. They exchanged aggressive blows, then Joe delivered an enziguiri, but Morgan popped to his feet and delivered a clothesline. After their stalemate, Magnus and Crimson tagged in to have an exchange. Joe re-entered and continued the beating on Crimson. Suddenly, they cut to a split-screen of Abyss and Ray still fighting backstage. The backstage shot was given priority on the screen, rendering the Tag Title match an afterthought in a smaller window. Back to the Tag Title match, the crowd chanted for Morgan as Taz continued to focus on Ray-Abyss, but noting Ray was trending on Twitter.
 
Morgan tagged into the match at 6:45 and threw Magnus across the ring with a fallway slam. Joe then took a back elbow smash and clothesline. Morgan fired up and clothesline Magnus before delivering his signature suplex into a frontslam for a two count. The action broke down when Joe attacked Morgan from behind, then Morgan tried to fight off both challengers. Crimson re-entered and dragged Magnus to the outside, leaving Morgan and Joe in the ring. Joe then took the action to the floor with a flying forearm smash to Crimson.
 
Morgan was left alone in the ring, so Magnus re-entered the ring looking for an attack. But, Crimson KO'ed Joe on the floor, then re-entered the ring for a double-team finisher on Magnus. Morgan made the cover and it was good for the win. Afterward, Morgan and Crimson shoved each other around to celebrate as the challengers slowly walked away from the ring.
 
WINNERS: Morgan & Crimson at 9:25. Tough spot following Monster's Ball. Also, the match-up wasn't favorable with three BA-types and Magnus, whose character hasn't been developed for the audience to care about him right now. The match needed someone to balance the bigger stars so they actually stood out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 09 2012, 02:09 pm
7 -- KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM
 
Once the bell sounded, Angle bailed from the ring to frustrate Storm and avoid another quick pinfall loss like in their first match-up. After a brief back-and-forth, Angle bailed again, so Storm attacked him on the floor and high-fived the ringside fans. Back in the ring, Storm delivered ten punches in the corner, but took his time working on Angle, which allowed Angle to find an opening to start attacking Storm. As Angle wore down Storm, the announcers talked up Angle's 2012 Olympics quest and hardcore training regiment.
 
After Storm teased a comeback, Angle delivered his trademark trio of German Suplexes. He then went up top to deliver a top-rope moonsault for a two count. Angle took too long to follow up, allowing Storm to hit a DDT for a nearfall. Angle came back with an Angle Slam, but Storm kicked out. The crowd wasn't reacting much to the nearfalls here. Angle tried to get the crowd involved by mocking Storm's superkick warm-up, but Storm blocked a superkick and delivered a cutter for a two count. Storm went up top, blocked Angle's attempted overhead toss counter, and delivered an elbow drop for a nearfall.
 
Storm tried a superkick for the decisive blow, but Angle pulled ref Hebner in the way, then delivered a low blow in the confusion. Angle followed with a kick to the face and made the cover for the win. Post-match: Angle had a conversation with ref Hebner before leaving the ring flashing a big, heelish smile. Storm checked his jaw as he recovered, then Tenay and Taz recapped a video replay of the match. Afterward, Angle celebrated on the stage while Storm sternly matched eyes.
 
WINNER: Angle at 13:44. Fine singles match to continue the Storm-Angle program and keep Roode and Storm away from each other in the title picture. Angle is definitely (and smartly) not taking many risks in the ring to preserve his Olympics push and overall career at his age. He's good enough to where he can get by with a perfectly fine match.

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. JEFF HARDY -- TNA World Title match
 
The match moved to the floor early on. Hardy cleared out the front row fans, then delivered a flying leg splash to Roode, who was leaning against the guardrail. Back in the ring, Roode crotched Hardy on the top turnbuckle, then began working over Hardy's leg/ankle. Roode continued the assault as the crowd tried to rally behind Hardy. Roode's cockiness caught up to him, as he mocked Hardy's top-rope pose before missing with a top-rope move. Roode was the first man to his feet, but Hardy blasted away with right hands followed by a back drop. Hardy delivered signature offense, but Roode came back with a spinebuster for a close two count.
 
At 15:00, Roode measured Hardy for a top-rope suplex, but Hardy blocked and face-planted Roode down to the mat. Hardy tried to follow with a Swanton Bomb, but Roode rolled to the floor to avoid Hardy. Roode tried to leave and he grabbed his title belt, but Hardy chased him down on the ramp and hit Roode from behind. Hardy ran Roode down the ramp into the ring, then the ref sort of stumbled around, allowing Roode to cheap-shot Hardy on the way back into the ring. Roode followed with a Fisherman Suplex with a bridge pin, but Hardy kicked out.
 
Hardy came back with a Twist of Fate and Whisper in the Wind, but Roode kicked out in time. The crowd chanted Hardy's name as Hardy measured Roode for another Twist of Fate, but Roode escaped and slid out of the ring. Roode asked for his title belt again, but Hardy chased him down again. Back in the ring, Hardy ducked a belt shot, then the ref broke up a Twist of Fate that would have sent Roode into the title belt, then Roode tried a quick roll-up with his feet on the ropes, but the ref saw it and stopped it. Quick sequence there.
 
Roode and Hardy reset with the two men standing inches away from each other. The ref was standing very close to them, which signaled what Roode was about to do: kick the ref in the crotch. Ref Hebner dropped to the mat as Hardy hit the Twist of Fate, then called for the bell for a DQ as Hardy was preparing for a pin. The verdict was announced as the crowd chanted for Sting to rectify the situation. Didn't they learn last month that Sting leaves before the main event?
 
Post-match: As Hardy's music played, Hardy went up top for a Swanton Bomb to "send the crowd home happy." Hardy then threw down the title belt onto Roode before doing a victory lap. Ringside, Hardy angrily yelled into the ring, where Roode was shown clutching his title belt. Hardy did a final victory lap and left the ringside area. "Dammit, Bobby Roode did it again," Tenay said to close the PPV. Tenay added that Hardy should be the champ and they signed off 12 minutes before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Hardy via DQ at 19:43; Roode retained the World Title. They seem to be building to a No DQ steel cage match to give Hardy a fair shot at the title. The match was okay-to-acceptable for a PPV main event with good heat on the final five minutes after the Ray-Abyss match hurt the crowd for the rest of the show. As for the outcome, TNA runs the risk of the wrong heat on the promotion for booking another non-clean main event finish (which is one reason why they can't get discerning viewers to spend money on the PPVs), but this crowd was into the story thanks to Hardy's popularity and the slow development of Roode's heel persona as champ. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 11 2012, 11:48 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_56774.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- SHEAMUS & SANTINO vs. WADE BARRETT & JINDER MAHAL

Santino took the initiative to start the match for his team, and was quickly knocked down to size by the heel team. Sheamus took a tag at 2:00 and cleaned house, including a Brogue Kick to Mahal. He didn't make a cover, though, and brought in Santino, complete with Cobra sock puppet. Santino warmed up the Cobra and popped Jinder in the face, securing a pin for the win.

WINNERS: Sheamus & Santino at 2:54. WWE just can't figure out whether Mahal can be built up as a legitimate heel threat or if he's just a comedy heel with no credibility. Friday on Smackdown, they'll want people to be interested in Sheamus vs. Mahal, but no one will take him seriously after this loss. More of that odd Smackdown booking on Raw.

2 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

The two champions cut a quick pace early on before exchanging rapid-fire pinfall attempts. This is definitely not going long. Kofi went for a top-rope cross-body splash, but Bryan intercepted and slapped on the LeBell Lock. Kofi fought the hold momentarily, but tapped out. Bryan jumped out of the ring and hopped on the announce table to celebrate like he just won the Super Bowl. Lawler, the babyface announcer, talked up Bryan's victory while Cole, the delusional semi-heel announcer, continued to knock Bryan.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 1:21. Apparently this was supposed to be a "credibility-boosting" victory for Bryan, but Kofi deserves better.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. CURT HAWKINS

Clay looked like a combination of Colt Cabana and Dusty Rhodes gyrating and strutting around the ring in his bright red singlet. Clay was mic'ed for sound, too, as he called his spots dominating Hawkins. Clay delivered his big chest bump finish for the pin and the win, prompting Lawler to say Hawkins was just squashed. Afterward, Clay's funk music played again and he danced with the dancers to celebrate.

WINNER: Clay at 1:07. One of those segments specifically designed to get something to trend on Twitter. I just don't know what to say right now.

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Right on cue, WWE flashed a big graphic on the screen noting "Brodus Clay" is currently the #1 worldwide trend on Twitter. In the background, Laurinaitis was busy texting on his phone rather than watching the match and Cole noted he wants to know who Laurinaitis keeps texting. Also in the background was a fan sign reading, "Mr. Belding for Raw GM." After a few minutes of back-and-forth, Swagger dumped Punk to the outside. Ziggler thought about a cheap-shot on Punk, but Laurinaitis looked up from his phone and casually stepped in front of Ziggler to sell impartiality. Moments later, Punk turned the tables with a suicide dive on Swagger on the outside. They cut to break with Punk in control.

Back live, Swagger and Punk were trading blows. Cole plugged Chris Jericho on the show tonight before they recapped Clay's return and noted Cena faces Ziggler tonight, but Kane is lurking around. Punk built some offense before delivering a high knee in the corner. Swagger blocked the follow-up bulldog, though, and delivered a Swagger Bomb for a two count. The crowd rallied behind Punk, who blocked a second Bomb with boots to the face. Swagger then countered a flying press attempt with an impressive turnaround bodyslam for a two count.

Swagger slowed down the pace and talked trash to Punk before setting up for his gutwrench powerbomb finisher, but Punk escaped. Punk then walked into a belly-to-belly slam for another nearfall. Vickie pounded the mat to tell Swagger to follow up. Swagger tried to follow up with a superplex from the top turnbuckle, but Punk blocked, then delivered a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop. Punk covered, but Swagger kicked out. Suddenly, the bell sounded. Apparently they're calling it a three count.

WINNER: Punk at 13:51. This was the best they've made Swagger look in months. The only problem was the finish was pretty bad trying to get over the Laurinaitis Referee angle heading to the Rumble.

5 -- JOHN CENA vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Ziggler scored with an early Rocker Dropper for a nearfall. Ziggler continued the assault as Cena tried to cover up. Ziggler then slapped on a headlock and "showed off" by doing a headstand while working the hold. Cena broke free with a side suplex, but Ziggler cut him off again and tried to "show off" some more. Cena took advantage of Ziggler's cockiness to begin his comeback routine. Suddenly, they cut to the parking garage, where Ryder was still changing the tire. Kane then attacked Ryder and slammed him into the car. Cena was watching this as Ziggler slapped on a sleeperhold from behind. They cut to the loading dock again, where Kane chokeslammed Ryder to the area below. They tried to make it look like a big fall, but it was about a two-foot drop since Ryder's head popped up after his "fall." The worn-out crowd barely reacted.

Back live, Cena escaped Ziggler's ringside attack, then ran toward the back. They cut to a shot of Vickie trying to get Ziggler back in the ring for a count-out win, but Cole called the whole thing a mute point. They cut back to Cena looking for Kane, who found Cena near the loading dock and drove his fist into Cena's mouth again. The camera showed Ryder flat on his back below the loading dock. Once Kane released his grip on Cena, they showed Cena selling unconsciousness and Kane breathing heavily to conclude the show.

WINNER: No Decision when Raw ended at 6:21.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 11 2012, 11:53 am
Big names announced for 2012 WWE Hall of Fame including Horsemen (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_56780.shtml)

Prior to WWE Hall of Fame tickets going on-sale this weekend, WWE announced Edge and the Four Horsemen as the "main event" 2012 HOF inductees during Monday's Raw.

Most notable is WWE advertising TNA's Ric Flair for the ceremony along other Four Horsemen members Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, Barry Windham, and manager J.J. Dillon.

Edge's induction will come just short of one year after his retirement from pro wrestling following last year's WrestleMania.

Although not mentioned during Raw, Mil Mascaras was the first 2012 Hall of Fame inductee revealed last year.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2012, 12:13 pm
WWE NXT Results: 1-11-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_56864.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - ALICIA FOX vs. MAXINE

Maxine starts strong and sends Fox into a corner. They push each other around and Fox does a split to duck a running Maxine, but Maxine grabs the ropes and puts knees into Fox's back. Fox with a take down, but Maxine puts a boot to her stomach, then a big boot for a pair of one counts. Maxine forces Fox to the corner and puts shoulders to Fox. Meanwhile, he announcers announce that next week is the marriage of Maxine and Johnny Curtis. Maxine does a jump over a charging Fox, and lands on top of Fox to apply a Dragon Sleeper with a leg wrap-around. Fox manages to get out, then Maxine tries to roll up Fox, but Fox rolls through for the pin.

WINNER: Alicia Fox in 4:00. Fox landed a total of three or four strikes in the whole match, as Maxine just dominated her. Maxine is substantially shorter than Fox, yet looked like a total powerhouse and held up her end of the deal very well.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. TYLER REKS (w/Curt Hawkins)

Reks with a boot and punches to start things off, quickly dominating the smaller Barreta. The Regal/Striker pair is proving its value - when Striker sets up the typical "speed versus strength" match formula, Regal (rightly) points out that Reks is very quick and may negate Barreta's speed with his own. Barreta with a dropkick and a back elbow, and goes to the top, but Reks rolls away. Reks consults with Hawkins outside the ring, but Barreta nails a flip dive to take them both out.

Barreta comes into the ring, only to eat a big boot from Reks for two. Reks stomps on Barreta, then DDTs him into the turnbuckle. Reks continues to ground Barreta, but Barreta rolls away from a knee drop. Barreta with chops and a kick, but Reks clotheslines him down for two. Barreta gets boots up on a charge, then tries a corkscrew moonsault leg drop, but Reks moves out of the way. Reks tries the Burning Hammer, but takes too long, and Barreta slips out and gets Reks with a backslide for the win.

WINNER: Trent Barreta in 6:00. Good match. Regal and Striker are doing an amazing job at elevating the talent and calling the matches properly.

3 - THE USOS vs. TYSON KIDD & JTG - Tag Team Match

Tyson Kidd and Jimmy start the match, and Kidd immediately slaps on a headlock. Jimmy fights out and slaps Kidd down. Jey tags in and they tag team him for a two count. Kidd with a jawbreaker and tags in JTG, who eats fist, then a Northern Lights suplex with a bridge for two. Jimmy comes back in, then Jey is back. Jey clears Kidd from the apron, but JTG takes advantage. Kidd and JTG tag team on Jey in the corner for a bit while Striker and Regal play up Kidd's kicks.

Jey fights out and lands a spinning back elbow. Double tag out and Jimmy runs over JTG and lands a Samoan drop and the stinkface, but Kidd breaks up the pin. On the floor, Kidd with a suicide dive, but Jey counters with a mid-air Samoan drop. Yikes! Back in the ring, Jimmy charges JTG in the corner and eats an elbow. JTG then takes a superkick to the chin when he tries an axe handle from the top rope, which is good for the win for the Usos.

WINNERS: The Usos in 6:00. Top-flight tag team match - good pacing and they avoided most of the typical tag team formulas, with lots of back and forth.

4 - ALEX RILEY vs. JOHNNY CURTIS (w/Maxine)

Curtis takes Riley down, but Riley responds with an armdrag. Curtis heads outside the ring to hold on to Maxine and get some encouragement. Curtis takes down Riley on his way into the ring and dominates Riley with power. Riley with an STO to get separation and some moves of his own, but Maxine distracts him for a moment, letting Curtis slip in a brainbuster for the win.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 3:00. Fast match, but I liked what I saw. Curtis looked really good and Riley always does.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2012, 12:14 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 1-12-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to McQuade's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_56895.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – TNA tag champions MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON vs. ROBBIE E & ROB TERRY -- non-title match

Terry and Crimson started the match. Terry hit a shoulderblock and immediately tagged out. After being shoved, Robbie E. tagged out, but was then tagged back in after Terry shoved Crimson. Morgan was tagged in after Robbie E. was taken to his corner. Morgan hit the repeated elbow strikes on Robbie, then hit a Carbon Footprint on Terry. Crimson and Morgan double chokeslammed Robbie to get the pinfall and close out a quick match.

WINNERS: Morgan & Crimson in 2:00.

2 – WINTER (w/Angelina Love) vs. ODB (w/Eric Young)

ODB started the match with a chestbump, knocking down Winter. She then charged Winter in the corner, but missed. Winter got her in the tree of woe and choked her while in position. She then got ODB in a headlock, and ODB shoulderblocked her after being tossed to the ropes. She then hit a Bronco Buster after tossing Winter into the ropes, followed by a fallaway slam after she got up. Angelina Love got in the ring, but Eric Young picked her up and got her in an airplane spin. ODB then hit a TKO on a dazed Winter to get the pinfall.

WINNER: ODB in 3:00.

3 – KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM - #1 contender's match for the World Hvt. Title

The match began with Storm backing Angle into a corner and striking away. He then took him corner-to-corner with head smashes. Storm then tossed Angle to the outside, and smashed his head on the stairs. Angle got away from Storm and got control with a gut punch. The match went back inside the ring and Angle stomped away. Storm got control after a reverse Irish Whip into an elbow to the jaw. Angle went outside and Storm followed, but Angle hit a belly-to-belly suplex. At this point, the show went to a commercial break.

As the match resumed, Angle was stomping Storm in the corner. The taunting by Angle continued as he continued to stomp away on Storm. Storm tried to build momentum, but was brought down by a hard uppercut by Angle. After an Irish Whip, both attempted a crossbody, but hit each other and they went down. The two got up and Storm built offense with two clotheslines and a double knee backbreaker. Storm also pulled on a generic backbreaker before setting up for an Anklelock. Angle countered, though, and hit an Angle Slam, but only got a two count. In frustration, Angle grabbed Storm’s beer bottle and took a drink. He then spit beer in Storm’s face and hit a superkick, but only got a two count again. Storm recovered and hit Angle with a double knee jawbreaker, followed by superkick of his own and got the pinfall.

WINNER: Storm in 11:00.

4 – TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. JEFF HARDY -- TNA World Title match

Hardy nailed Roode with a baseball slide as he was on the outside during introductions to begin the match. Hardy then continued the attack by slamming Roode’s face into the ringpost and the stairs, and a catapult into the post as well. The match was taken inside and Hardy stomped Roode in the corner. After dragging him out, he hit a short-arm clothesline followed by a front suplex. As he clotheslined Roode onto the outside, the show cut to a commercial.

The match resumed with Hardy repeatedly punching and kicking Roode on the outside. He then forced him into the steel steps, and set up for a spot while Roode was on the rail. Hardy went for a diving legdrop, but crashed and burned intensely. He beat a count-out by the last second, but Roode began the attack. After a headlock, Roode hit a rolling neck snap.

The champion taunted the fans while Hardy was down, but Hardy got control with a jawbreaker, followed by a Russian legsweep and double legdrop. Hardy then executed the Whisper in the Wind, but only got a two count. Roode then countered a Twist of Fate with a Double R Spinebuster. Hardy then hit the Twist of Fate after countering a vertical suplex. He went for a Swanton Bomb, but missed. Roode cradled him, but only got a two count. Hardy then gained momentum after getting to his feet and hit another Twist of Fate. He then executed the Swanton Bomb and went for a pinfall. As the ref was about to strike three, Bully Ray pulled the ref out of the ring.

WINNER: No Contest in 9:00; Roode retained the World Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2012, 12:15 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 1-12-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_56897.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - YOSHI TATSU vs. WADE BARRETT

Barrett wins an early lock-up, but Tatsu gets some kicks in exchange. Tatsu with a spinning heel kick from the corner, but Barrett yanks him off the rope and mounts him to start a period of domination. Barrett knees Tatsu out of the ring completely, then rams him into the apron. Barrett rolls Tatsu in for a two count. Barrett settles into a chinlock. Tatsu rallies the crowd, but Barrett knees him. Tatsu puts Barrett into the corner and lands some chops and kicks. Tatsu with a running knee and the Shining Wizard for two. Tatsu calls for the end, but Barrett kicks Tatsu's knee, another kick, and the Winds of Change side slam for the win.

WINNER: Wade Barrett in 4:00. Squash match to help get Barrett's finisher over, but the match was good for a squash.

2 - WWE tag champion EVAN BOURNE vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

McGillicutty actually gets sent to the corner by the petite Bourne, and then arm-dragged into the center of the ring. McGillicutty blocks a second arm drag and moves to ground Bourne, but Bourne attacks the hamstrings with kicks. McGillicutty actually hits a springboard sunset flip, but Bourne rolls through and lands a double foot stomp on McGillicutty's shoulders for a two count. McGillicutty on the attack again. Elbow drop gets McGillicutty two, then he cuts off Bourne's comeback attempt. Bourne with a running huracarana, dropkick, and high knee to regain control. Bourne with a jumping side kick for two. Bourne looks for Air Bourne, but McGillicutty keeps him from going up top. McGillicutty sends Bourne to the outside.

McGillicutty with a chinlock out of the break, and he gets in some blows for two. Dropkick gets another two count. McGillicutty with offense from the ringside area, but he doesn't get all the way into the ring when making the cover. Bourne starts a comeback, but walks into a drop toe hold putting McGillicutty back on top. Bourne reverses a suplex for a two count. He's finally able to mount a full comeback. Double knees from across the ring gets Bourne a nearfall. McGillicutty with a Saito suplex for two. Bourne lands a roundhouse to the head from the apron, hits the turnbuckle, and nails Air Bourne for the win.

WINNER: Evan Bourne in 9:30. McGillicutty got in about 90 percent of the offense here, which is par for the course of a Bourne match, but the match was really slow. McGillicutty needs to add some more signature moves, and the pacing he prefers is better suited for someone much larger than him. He also needs to change his look; with the backwards cap and the beard, I think of Ben Roethlisberger every time I see him.

3 - KELLY KELLY vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella)

Kelly with a quick flurry of offense, but a distraction from Nikki gives Brie an advantage. Kelly chokes Brie in the ropes, then clears Nikki from the apron, giving Brie a chance for offense. Brie with lots of offense on Kelly's arm in the ropes. Cheap shot from Nikki lets Brie get a two count. Brie with an armbar that bends Kelly halfway over, then she mocks Kelly's butt-shaking, so Kelly gets a schoolgirl for one.

Brie right back with offense. Brie knees the arm some more and Kelly starts to cry, leading to a two count. Brie gets a pair of additional covers for two. Kelly with a monkey flip, then a Thez Press from the top turnbuckle, followed by her head scissors takedown. Bulldog from Kelly, the butt rub in the corner, and the handrping back splash. Nikki switches in, plants Kelly face-first into the turnbuckle, and covers with legs on the ropes for the win.

WINNER: Brie Bella in 5:00. What I like about the Bella Twins is that they are always doing different things in the ring; it really feels like they are working hard to be better wrestlers. I also think it's hilarious that their "finishing move" is to land an ordinary move from a fresh wrestler and somehow get the pin.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 16 2012, 12:16 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-13-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_56931.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

They showed Hornswoggle beating Slater in an over-the-top challenge last week, and Gabriel making the save when Slater tried to attack Horny. This was shown during Slater’s entrance. The announcers talked about these guys being former tag champs and members of Nexus. Slater with a kick to the face, then a clothesline. Headscissors take-over by Gabriel, followed by an arm-drag. Back-and-forth action early on, with Slater hitting a neck-breaker for a near-fall at 1:26. Jumping back kick by Gabriel, but Slater met him with a spinebuster for another two-count. As Slater went to the top rope, Hornswoggle’s music played. He came from under the ring and distracted Slater. Gabriel kicked Slater off the top rope and hit the 450 splash for the win.

WINNER: Gabriel, at 2:48. Either man could’ve used the win, so no complaints here (other than the obvious with Hornswoggle’s involvement).

2 – CODY RHODES vs. EZEKIEL JACKSON

Jackson tried to suplex Rhodes into the ring after he ended up on the apron, but Rhodes landed on his feet (sort-of) and DDT’d Jackson for two. Cole made fun of Booker for much of this match on commentary. Jackson fired back with some power moves and whipped Rhodes hard into the corners. Body shots by Jackson followed, and Mathews added a layer to the story of this match by saying Rhodes beat Jackson for the IC Title five months ago. Jackson countered the Beautiful Disaster kick, but Rhodes sent Jackson into the buckle with a drop toe-hold. Beautiful Disaster kick connected, then Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:16. Not much to say here other than a solid win for Rhodes after a so-so promo.

3 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. TED DIBIASE

Before the match could start, Hunico and Camacho wheeled out on their bike. DiBiase was distracted and McIntyre gave him a big boot, getting a two-count just 0:07 into the match. DiBiase was then sent to ringside while Hunico and Camacho joined the announce team. Suicide dive by DiBiase. The two brawled outside the ring, but McIntyre got the advantage back in the ring. Hunico sounded out of breath for some reason. DiBiase got a boot up on a corner charge and connected on a flying knee then a clothesline for two. Right hand by McIntyre caught DiBiase coming off the second rope. Only a two count on the pin. Camacho said Hunico saved his life in the barrio, which is how they know each other. McIntyre and DiBiase fought on the top rope, with McIntyre ending up getting crotched on the ropes. DiBiase took advantage of his dazed opponent and hit Dream Street for the win.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 3:46. With the heels at ringside, I thought McIntyre would get his win here.

4 – SHEAMUS vs. JINDER MAHAL

During Sheamus’s entrance, they showed clips of the segment from last week, where Mahal put the Camel Clutch on Sheamus. So, are they just ignoring Mahal getting squashed by Sheamus and Santino on Raw? Mahal did mic work on the way to the ring, saying he’s most dangerous when he’s the least expected. Sheamus went after Mahal with shots to the torso, but before he could hit the High Cross, Mahal fled to ringside. Sheamus went after him and took Mahal down with a shoulder-block. Back in the ring, Mahal brought Sheamus down throat-first over the top rope. Running knee by Mahal took Sheamus down. Cole somehow tried to argue that it was near “impossible” to win the Royal Rumble by coming in at number 30. He didn’t bother to explain that fact, and no one called him on it. Sheamus fought out of a Mahal rest-hold and went to the top, connecting on a shoulder-tackle. Brogue Kick right to the face. That ended it.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 3:56. Not a surprising result by any stretch, but at least Mahal gets experience with a top guy.

5 – DAVID OTUNGA vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Double-leg take-down by Marella on Otunga as the match began. Roll-up by Marella for two. Otunga stomped away on Santino, then hit an elbowdrop. Rear chin-lock applied by Otunga. Missed charge by Otunga led to Marella going back on offense. Marella pulled out the Cobra after a diving headbutt. Otunga blocked the shot and gave Santino his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Otunga, at 2:00. Now THAT was a surprising result. I had no idea what Otunga’s finisher was before this match because I can’t remember the last time he won a singles match.

6 – “FUNKASAURUS” BRODUS CLAY vs. TYSON KIDD

Yes, Clay’s theme is now available on iTunes. Clay charged at Kidd with a running headbutt to take Kidd down. His next move was a diving cross-body, a blink-and-you-missed-it match.

WINNER: Clay, at 0:13. The most disappointing part? No Clay trash talk during the match.

7 – NATALYA vs. TAMINA

No entrance again for Natalya. Slap to the face by Nattie, then a standing suplex by Natalya. The announcers once again emphasized the women’s famous fathers. Samoan Drop by Tamina, who then headed to the top rope. Superfly splash finished it for the second week in a row.

WINNER: Tamina, at 0:57. I understand WWE’s reason for shortening most Divas matches, but when you have at least one worker in the match in Nattie who could carry things, I wonder why they don’t bother to go at least a minute.

8 – THE BIG SHOW vs. DANIEL BRYAN - NO COUNT-OUT, NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

After Bryan got to the ring, A.J. walked to ringside. Garcia handled formal ring introductions. Booker said the World Title has changed Bryan, while Cole said he doesn’t think Bryan has changed all that much. Show turned a handshake into a press slam. Hard slap to the chest of Bryan, then a beal out of the corner. Bryan went off the top rope, but Show speared Bryan in mid-air. Show went for a cover, but Bryan was underneath the ropes. Bryan rolled to ringside as they went to break at 1:54.

Back at 4:49 of the match, with Show taking the beating to Bryan in front of the announce table. Bryan grabbed a chair and whacked Show several times with it. Cole reminded viewers than pinfall or submission has to take place inside the ring. Show grabbed the chair and Bryan’s eyes became wide as he saw Show wielding the weapon. He slowly entered the ring with it, but before he could, Bryan dropkicked him off the apron and back to ringside. Bryan grabbed the chair and continued to hit Show with it until Show kicked him. Back in the ring, Bryan kicked at Show’s chest but Show chopped Bryan in his already-red chest. Dropkick to the leg by Bryan took Show to the mat. Cover got only one. More chairshots from Bryan, then a DDT on the chair. Cole said it was that move that helped Bryan win the title in the first place. Booker said it was a bigger man who performed the move before, though. I don’t recognize these announcers, making such cogent points!

Show went for a chokeslam, but Bryan slipped out and grabbed a chair. Show punched through it so Bryan went again to ringside. Show knocked him down and began undressing the announce table. Show wanted a chokeslam through the table but Bryan kicked out and hit Show in the back with more chairshots. Bryan tried to jump from the apron onto Show, but Show slapped him in the chest once again. Bryan tried to run and Show chased after him. Bryan snuck behind A.J. when running and Show couldn’t stop, running her right over. Trainers and the referee checked on A.J. as the match came to a standstill. Show held his head, upset over what he had done. He bent over to check on her as Bryan talked with the trainer. Show was nearly in tears. They brought a stretcher out for her and put her in a neckbrace. “She’s okay” chant as they loaded her onto the stretcher. Well, that takes you out of the moment. As the two wrestlers walked up the ramp behind the stretcher as Bryan gave Show a tongue-lashing about being reckless and saying if he really wants the title that bad, he can have it. Bryan was good in his role. Before they headed backstage, Bryan called Show a bastard. Instead of going backstage, Show let his emotions flow on the stage as the show closed.

WINNER: No Contest (no bell), about 13:18 (timed until the end of the show since the match was never officially stopped).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 18 2012, 03:42 am
WWE RAW Results: 1-16-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_57029.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE tag champions EPICO & PRIMO vs. AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE w/Rosa Mendes) -- WWE Tag Title match

Before the bell sounded, they showed handheld footage of the Tag Title change from last night's Raw house show. They quickly worked to a hot tag to Kofi, who delivered signature offense before Epico rolled him up from behind for a quick two count. Kofi then hit Trouble in Paradise and Bourne tried to finish Epico with Air Boom, but Primo attacked Kofi ringside, causing a distraction. Epico then crotched Bourne and Primo hit the back-stabber for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Epico & Primo at 2:18. That was short work of Kofi and Bourne's re-match clause. It will be interesting to see what the fall-out is for Kofi and Bourne.

2 -- U.S. champion ZACK RYDER (w/Eve) vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- U.S. Title match

Swagger quickly targeted the injured ribs and back as Vickie shouted at Eve across the ringside area. The crowd started a "Let's Go Ryder...woo woo woo-woo-woo" chant as Cole promoted an upcoming update on A.J.'s condition following the injury angle at the end of Friday's Smackdown. Lawler talked dejectedly about Ryder needing to live to fight another day as Swagger continued to wear down Ryder. Swagger delivered a gutwrench powerbomb, but Ryder kicked out. Angered, Swagger pounded away on Ryder's back as the crowd tried to rally behind Ryder again. Swagger delivered another gutwrench and this one was good for the win. Swagger is the new U.S. champion and Ryder had zero offense in the match.

WINNER: Swagger at 2:23 to retain the U.S. Title. You could see this coming last week when WWE created the injury angle to give Ryder an "out" ahead of his title defense. Like Kofi & Bourne dropping the Tag Titles this weekend, it will be interesting to see the fall-out for Ryder.

3 -- KELLY KELLY & ALICIA FOX vs. BELLA TWINS

Perez got involved in the finish, arguing with one of the Bellas ringside after they tried Twin Magic. Kelly then rolled up the other Bella in the ring for the pin. Afterward, the Bellas shoved down Perez, but Kelly and Fox stood up to the Bellas, sending them scampering to the outside.

WINNERS: Kelly & A. Fox at 0:56.

4 -- SHEAMUS vs. WADE BARRETT vs. R-TRUTH vs. THE MIZ -- over-the-top rope battle royal

Truth and Sheamus tried to eliminate Barrett early on, then Miz surprisingly helped them eliminate Barrett. Barrett slammed the ring apron in frustration, then the three remaining men went to work on each other. Miz received plenty of focus before running into a barrage of fist smashes from Sheamus. Sheamus then set up Miz for ten consecutive forearm smashes to Miz's chest, turning Miz's upper body red. Sheamus then pounded his own chest to warm up for the Brogue Kick, but Miz pulled down the top rope and Sheamus crotched himself. Suddenly, Truth came up behind Sheamus and Miz to eliminate them simultaneously. Truth, in jeans, wins the mini-battle royal. Post-match: Miz glared into the ring as Truth celebrated. Sheamus then wiped the glare off Miz's face with a Brogue Kick. Sheamus's music played and he pointed to Truth to sell respect, but also competition. Cole said anyone can win the Rumble in two weeks.

WINNER: Truth at 4:10.

In-ring: Back live, new U.S. champion Jack Swagger was parading around in the ring. Notably, Vickie Guerrero was not ringside. Cole complained about Swagger having to wrestle again tonight as they went to a replay from earlier in the show when Swagger captured the U.S. Title from Zack Ryder. Cole then accused Cena of whining to Laurinaitis as Swagger held up his title belt for the hard camera. After a pause, John Cena's music played to bring out Cena to a strong, mixed reaction. Cena threw down his cap, stormed the ring, and blasted away at Swagger. No bell sounded.

Cena blasted Swagger to the outside and pounded away on Swagger, taking out his frustrations with Kane. Cena glared at the ref as the crowd picked up a dueling chant. Mr. Belding was behind the announcers on the front row, of note. Cena placed Swagger on the announce table and choked him, then punched him and kicked him. Lawler said it's like Cena wants to hurt Swagger as much as Swagger wanted to hurt Ryder earlier. Cena then whipped Swagger hard into the ring steps, drawing oohs from the crowd. For his next move, Cena removed the top ring steps, then placed Swagger on the bottom steps.

Cena contemplated smashing the ring steps on Swagger, but Kane's music suddenly played and the arena turned red. Kane appeared on the video screen and said that's impressive. He said they will meet at the Rumble, and, by then, Cena will have embraced the hate. Kane's pyro shot off in the ring and Cole said Kane is driving Cena to a place he's never been to before. Cena wiped his head in frustration before they cut to break.

5 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. JTG

Clay danced around to freak out JTG, who tried a right hand and a takedown, but Clay wiggled before punching JTG in the face. Lawler noted there were a lot of things moving there. Clay delivered a headbutt before asking the crowd if he should get him. Brodus delivered a t-bone suplex before noting, "My bad." Clay with a big corner splash, then a flying bodypress for the pin and the win. Cole said he calls that move, "Ah, funk it." Post-match: Clay danced with the dancers before they cut to a replay of Clay's power offense. They even went to a slow-motion replay of Clay shaking his body fat.

WINNER: Funkasauras at 1:09. I'm still not quite sure I have the words. They're at the "repeat and reinforce" stage at this point.

6 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN & CHRIS JERICHO vs. MARK HENRY & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) & DAVID OTUNGA -- six-man tag match

Punk and Ziggler started things off as Jericho continued to smile ringside. Bryan then tagged in to boos and collided with Ziggler on a botched leap frog spot. Bryan sold a right knee injury, then Otunga tagged in and began working on Bryan. The crowd chanted for Jericho as Cole was forced to mention that "Daniel Bryan" is trending on Twitter. Ziggler re-entered the ring and wore down Bryan, but Bryan made it across the ring to tag in Punk as Jericho was comically too late extending his hand for a tag. Punk lost control of the match, though, and the heels began working on Punk.

Punk broke free momentarily and the crowd anticipated Jericho tagging in, but the heels cut off Punk and resumed an attack. Henry shouted encouragement toward Otunga, who went for a superplex on Punk, but Punk blocked and delivered a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop. Jericho was hilarious selling excitement from the ring apron. Punk then went for a tag and brought in Jericho to a huge pop. Jericho did the classic fired-up babyface hot tag routine and played to all sections of the arena. Jericho was done, though, and slap-tagged Bryan. Jericho then left the ring and walked up the entranceramp while still fired up. Jericho screamed and shouted in excitement, then disappeared to the back. Suddenly, they cut to break.

[Commercial Break]

Back from break, Ziggler was wearing down Bryan as Punk shouted encouragement from ringside. Bryan broke free from Ziggler, though, and hot-tagged Punk, who ran over Ziggler with clotheslines. Punk with a neckbreaker, then corner attack and bulldog. Punk wanted a springboard move and connected with a flying forearm. Henry, who had been absent for most of the match, broke up a pin, then confronted Bryan. Bryan bailed from the ring and hobbled away, but Henry caught up to him and chucked Bryan clear across the entrance ramp.

Suddenly, Mick Foley's music played. Foley bounced out to the ring and sent a message from Laurinaitis that he's now in the match. The referee wasn't buying it, but Foley convinced him and grabbed a tag rope. In the ring, Punk tried to tag in Foley, but Ziggler cut him off and delivered a Rocker Dropper for a two count. Punk then blasted Ziggler with a kick and reached out to Foley, who tagged in as Otunga tagged in for the heels. Foley unloaded on Otunga before delivering a running knee in the corner. Next, Foley dropped Otunga with a DDT before whipping out Mr. Socko. Otunga ate Socko and Foley pressed him down to the mat. The bell sounded, declaring Foley and Punk the winners.

Post-match: Laurinaitis stomped out to the ring and said he never gave Foley permission to enter the match. He said Foley is not a legal participant in the match, so he is reversing the decision. The winners are now Ziggler, Otunga, and Henry.

WINNERS: Ziggler & Henry & Otunga via reverse decision at 14:12.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 22 2012, 08:57 am
WWE NXT Results: 1-18-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57127.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TITUS O'NEIL vs. DARREN YOUNG - No Disqualification Match

Young eludes O'Neil a few times, hits him once, and then runs out of the ring. Back in the ring, he begs off, then runs the ropes a few times, but walks into a big boot. O'Neil tries to cover for that, but only gets a short count. O'Neil with a backbreaker for two. Young gets in some brief offense, but O'Neil throws him out of the ring and Young sells a right wrist injury. Outside the ring, Young drops O'Neil face-first into the apron, but O'Neil comes back with a big powerslam. O'Neil tosses Young around some more than puts him back into the ring. Young runs away, but it's a ruse, as he kicks O'Neil's leg, then lands a neckbreaker on the apron.

O'Neil is trying to get some traction out of the break, but Young keeps him grounded. Cole and Mathews rip on Matt Striker for being the GM/host of NXT. After continued offense, Young lands his finisher mid-ring, but O'Neil kicks out at two. Young must be watching a lot of tape from the Triple H-Undertaker match at WrestleMania 27, because he backs into the ropes with a look of confusion, fear, and doubt, like Triple H did after Taker kicked out of the Tombstone. Young shakes it off and goes back to the attack. He tries his finisher again, but O'Neil slips out, sends Young into the ropes, and hits the Clash of the Titus for the win.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil in 9:00. They put together a decent match, but they really didn't take advantage of the No DQ stip. So, instead of this match feeling like the blow-off, it felt like just another match, unfortunately. The announcing was predictably awful, as Cole put himself into full-on heel mode, and Josh Mathews rolled with it, too.

2 - PERCY WATSON vs. HEATH SLATER

Watson gets an early advantage with a dropkick and a suplex. Slater hides in the ropes, but kicks Watson's legs out and starts to stomp away on the mat. Mathews recaps the Redemption points idea, but acknowledges that it's gone by the wayside. Cole gets all over Mathews, too. Slater on continued offense, and lands a jumping neckbreaker for two. Slater argues with the ref, giving Watson time to recovery. Watson turns it around, by dodges a charge, then a leaping forearm, dropkick, and a corner splash. Watson follows up with a shoulder tackle and the leaping splash to cover for two. Slater gets boots up in the corner, but walks into Watson's suplex-like finisher for the win. (Editor's Note: 21 "televised" losses in a row for Slater.)

WINNER: Percy Watson in 5:00. Watson looked good, but they just didn't create much excitement here.

3 - YOSHI TATSU & TRENT BARRETA vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Barreta and Hawkins start off with a lock-up, but Barreta ends up in the heel corner pretty quickly. Reks comes in, but Tatsu blind tags in, and Barreta clears Hawkins from the ring as Tatsu saves Reks for one. Tatsu attacks Reks with chops and kicks in the corner, but Reks gets a thumb to an eye to turn it around. Cole then trashes Mathews and says that he's been in WWE for ten years and done nothing. Mathews doesn't even defend himself.

Hawkins tags in and puts Tatsu in a rear chinlock. Cole actually takes credit for Daniel Bryan's success. Hawkins with a bodyslam for two. Reks tags back in. Cole and Mathews don't even notice the match any more as Cole recounts past history. Reks with a bodyslam for two.

Hawkins tags back in, then Reks comes right back. Tatsu with a spinning heel kick to draw a double tag out. Barreta knocks Hawkins off the apron and takes down Reks with a clothesline, then lands a step-up enziguri followed by a crossbody in the corner. Barreta gets the Gobstopper Knee for two. Reks sends him to the apron, but Barreta hangs on.

Barreta kicks Reks into the middle of the ring, then goes to the top and lands the corkscrew moonsault leg drop. Hawkins breaks up the pin, so Tatsu takes him out of the picture. The ref gets distracted trying to get Tatsu back out, allowing Hawkins to hit Barreta in the gut with his cane. Reks takes advantage with the Burning Hammer for the win.

WINNER: Curt Hawkins & Tyler Reks in 7:00. Decent match, but the beat down on Tatsu felt a little longer. I like the matches to be a bit less one-sided. Interesting that the team of larger, more powerful heels still needed to cheat to win.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 22 2012, 08:58 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 1-19-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to McQuade's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_57163.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – A.J. STYLES vs. GUNNER (w/Ric Flair)

The two locked horns into the corner, then Gunner shoved Styles into the corner. Styles escaped, then did his leapfrog-dropkick routine. Gunner left the ring in frustration, then came back to the ring, where he ax-handled Styles, then hit a vertical suplex. After a series of rest holds, Gunner tossed Styles into the ropes then hit a flying knee. Styles then gained momentum with a clothesline, and then he hit his signature springboard forearm. Kazarian and Christopher Daniels showed up at ringside, and Flair distracted the ref. During this time, Kaz hit a hard right on Styles, allowing Gunner to capitalize with a spike DDT to get the pinfall.

WINNER: Gunner in 5:00

2 - TNA tag champion CRIMSON vs. MAGNUS

Magnus attacked Crimson from behind to start the match. After hitting a hard clothesline, Magnus pulled off a vertical suplex. Trying to continue the offense, Crimson countered and hit the Red Sky to get the pinfall after a very short amount of time.

WINNER: Crimson in 1:00.

After the match, Samoa Joe rushed to the ring and beat down Crimson. Matt Morgan came to the ring to the aid of his partner, but was double-teamed by Magnus and Joe.

3 – MICKIE JAMES vs. MADISON RAYNE -- Steel Cage match

The match opened with James quickly attacking Rayne with a hard clothesline. As Rayne got up and went for the escape out of the cage, James got her in powerbomb position and delivered. After a dropkick, James hooked Rayne in a half nelson. Rayne then countered an Irish whip with a hard kick to the face. After James hit the ground, the show cut to a commercial break.

As the match resumed, James had control and performed a hard faceplant. As Rayne got up and went for the escape, she hit an elbow on James. As she was in control, Rayne then did a Miz-like backbreaker-neckbreaker combination, followed by her signature pushup facebuster. Keeping up the offense, Rayne did a running facebuster, and went for another one until being countered by James with a neckbreaker. The two exchanged punches as they were getting up to their feet, then Rayne hit a leaping forearm. She kept up the taunting, but James recovered and tossed her into the side of the cage, followed by a spike DDT to get the pinfall.

WINNER: James in 7:00

4 – ANGELINA LOVE vs. ERIC YOUNG

Young was reluctant to take any kind of action against his opponent, so he grappled with the ref. After the ref made not to him that he is indeed not his opponent, he extended his hand out to Love, who rejected. Young then tried again with the ref, but Love then kicked him hard in the balls for the disqualification.

WINNER: Young in 2:00. (This match was brutal for me to call.)

Winter entered the ring and the two double-teamed EY. ODB then rushed to the ring at the aid of her friend and attacked both Winter and Love.

5 – JEFF HARDY vs. JAMES STORM -- #1 contender match

The match kicked off with Storm performing two headlock takedowns, then Hardy countering into a head scissor into a headlock takedown of his own. Storm countered, then the two traded armdrags. Storm did a shoulderblock, but Hardy hit a clothesline, followed by a split legdrop. At this point, the show cut to a commercial.

As the match resumed, Storm charges Hardy in the corner, who countered and sent him to the outside. Hardy then hit a crossbody onto the outside, then took the match back into the ring. Storm then reversed an Irish whip, and hit a slingshot vertical suplex. Hardy then gained control and hit a Russian legsweep, followed by a sitout pin attempt. Continuing the offense, Hardy hit his signature Whisper in the Wind, but was short on the pinfall.

Gaining control, Storm hit a spinning crucifix toss, followed by an inverted tornado DDT. Hardy recovered and quickly hit the Twist of Fate. After attempting the Swanton Bomb, Storm countered and hit a leaping kick to the head of Hardy, followed by a superplex. As the two were on the ground, Bully Ray hit the ring and attacked the ref.

WINNER: No Contest in 8:00.

Post-match, Bully Ray attacked both Hardy and Storm repeatedly with a chain for a solid minute. Sting then arrived on the scene with a bat and took it to Ray. Bobby Roode then came to the ring and hit both Hardy and Storm with the championship belt. He then grabbed the mic and declared the match a No Contest, and the show ended on that note.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 22 2012, 09:00 am
WWE Superstars Results: 1-19-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_57169.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TAMINA vs. NATALYA

Tamina turns an early lock-up into a waistlock, but Natalya turns it into one of her own. Tamina gets a break and Natalya hides in the ropes. Natalya with a headlock then a clothesline, but Tamina comes back with one of her own for two. Natalya suckers Tamina into the corner and drapes her across the ropes and kicks her back into the ring. Natalya start bullying Tamina around on the mat. Natalya covers for one, then moves to an abdominal stretch. Tamina arm drags out, but Natayla clotheslines her for a pair of two counts. Natalya with a figure four and actually picks Tamina's lower half off the ground. Tamina turns around and escapes. Natalya whiffs a leg drop, allowing Tamina some separation.

Tamina with a boot up win the corner, then some big chops and a jumping headbutt. Natalya catches Tamina's leg on a superkick and deftly transitions to a Sharpshooter, but Tamina rolls through and leverages into a cover for a nearfall. Tamina hits a Samoan Drop, but can't go quickly enough for the Superfly Splash. Natyalya crotches her on the turnbuckle and sets up for a superplex, but Tamina headbutts her off, then lands the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNER: Tamina in 6:00. This may have been the longest televised Divas match in a few months. Natalya carried Tamina really well, and Tamina did what she could to keep up. It was good to see Natalya not lose after two or three hits like she has been in the last few months.

2 -- SANTINO & MASON RYAN vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Ryan and Hawkins start off, and Ryan throws Hawkins into the corner on a lock-up. Hawkins mouths off to Ryan and runs into an elbow off the ropes. Reks tags in and Ryan tosses him into the ring and puts shoulders into him in the corner. Scott Stanford is singing Brodus Clay's theme song, of note. Santino tags in. Santino with a series of offense but Reks ducks the Cobra. Hawkins comes in but Ryan press slams him to the outside. Ryan drops Hawkins almost on Reks and it looks like Reks's hand may have been hurt.

Reks is dominating Santino out of the break. Hawkins tags in. Santino reverses the "boot on the turnbuckle from the guy on the apron," sending Hawkins into Reks's boot. Reks tags in and just barely stops Santino from tagging out. Lots of tagging and double-teaming from Reks and Hawkins until Santino hits Hawkins with a stunner to bring Ryan in.

Ryan runs over Hawkins, knocks Reks from the apron, and then runs over Hawkins again. Ryan with a shoulder in the corner then a big boot, and puts Hawkins in the full nelson. Reks is coming in so Ryan shoves Hawkins into Reks and then tosses Reks from the ring. Ryan tags in Santino behind Hawkins's back, and Santino sets up a surprise Cobra for the win.

WINNER: Santino & Ryan in 6:30. Ryan really needs to expand his skillset. It's also tough to understand why he even needed a partner considering how well he handled himself against both Hawkins and Reks a number of times. This was essentially a formula tag match to get the crowd in a good mood for a Raw taping.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. JINDER MAHAL

This match was hyped by the announcers by questioning if Alex Riley can stop Jinder Mahal's "momentum." Are they watching the same WWE shows I am?

Mahal kicks Riley in the gut and moves to some extremely fast offense in the corner. Riley flips it around with punches in the corner. Big clothesline from Riley and a corner splash, then a faceplant in the corner for two. Mahal with a knee lift followed by a running high knee for two. Mahal chokes Riley on the ropes then knees him using the ropes for leverage. Mahal gets a neckbreaker for two. Mahal holds Riley for about half-a-minute, and Riley punches his way out. Riley with a running set of elbows and then a spinebuster. Riley sets up the Final Score, but Mahal escapes and lands a bodyslam. Mahal sets into the Camel Clutch and Riley taps out. Mahal is bleeding in the mouth post-match.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal via submission in 4:00. I am baffled by the booking here. Riley's been built up over the last month or two on Superstars, then Mahal, who keeps having small pushes only to be derailed, gets a win over him. The saving grace for Riley is that Superstars isn't much more than a dark match in terms of affecting your standing on the ladder. Outside of the booking, I liked this match a lot. Both Riley and Mahal move fluidly and fast despite their size. I could watch this match-up a number of times and not get bored, especially if they can get ten minutes or so in the ring to tell a story.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 22 2012, 09:01 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 1-20-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_57213.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CODY RHODES vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

Slight “Justin” chant as Gabriel landed a dropkick. Horny stayed at ringside to cheer on Hornswoggle. Mathews talked about how Rhodes was goaded into the match by an opportunistic Gabriel. That was an odd remark for a babyface announcer. Rhodes with a right hand that put Gabriel on the mat for two. Inverted DDT with an elbowdrop by Gabriel after working out of a rest-hold. Kick to the face put Rhodes down in the corner. He went for the 450 splash, but Rhodes crawled away. Rhodes tried an Alabama Slam, but Gabriel countered with a roll-up for two. Backslide for two as well. Springboard cross-body by Gabriel for a very near-fall. Rhodes countered a corner mount and dropped Gabriel over the top rope. Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 3:43. Impressive outing from Gabriel, who went toe-to-toe with the Intercontinental Champion.

2 - PRIMO & EPICO vs. THE USOS - TAG TEAM TORNADO MATCH

I have no idea why WWE hasn’t utilized this stipulation more for their tag matches, especially since the end of tag matches always seem to turn into this anyway. Cole said Rosa spun the wheel on WWE.com earlier in the day for it to land on a Tornado match. The Usos went for the first cover after a double-team. Jey Uso was tossed out of the ring, allowing Primo and Epico to double-team Jimmy inside the ring. Jimmy held onto the ropes on a whip and turned the tide just in time for Jey to re-enter the fray. Splashes by the Usos in the opposite corner as Cole said they talked to Rikishi, the father of the Usos, backstage earlier in the day. Rosa yelled at one of the Usos outside the ring, allowing Primo to run Jey into the apron. Splash off the top rope by Jimmy onto Epico, but Primo broke up the pin and hit the Backstabber for the win.

WINNERS: Primo and Epico, at 2:39. So if the Usos aren’t the number one contenders for the Tag Titles, I’d like to see what tag team is!

3 – WADE BARRETT vs. SHEAMUS – TABLES MATCH

Barrett took the fight to Sheamus early on, but Sheamus turned it around and clobbered Barrett with forearms. The two continued brawling until Sheamus grabbed Barrett by the head and ushered him over the top rope. Tables lined the side of the barricade. Barrett turned the tide outside the ring and grabbed a table near the announce desk. Sheamus tossed Barrett onto the desk, then set up the table. Sheamus tried a powerslam through the table, but Barrett slipped out and ran Sheamus shoulder-first into the ring post. Someone finally mentioned Barrett’s recent history in a Tables Match against Randy Orton, and it was Cole. Back in the ring, Barrett gave Sheamus a big boot, but Sheamus only went over the top rope and onto the apron, not through a table. Barrett ended up on the apron and attempted to suplex Sheamus over. Sheamus instead clubbed Barrett’s chest with forerarm shots. Sheamus got a running start and ran into Barrett, but Barrett cleared the table and hit the announce desk. Sheamus tried to bring a table into the ring, but Barrett rammed it into Sheamus. At ringside, Barrett gathered the table and put it into the ring. He tossed Sheamus into the ring, then set up said table. Sheamus countered Barrett and nailed Barrett with Irish Hammers. Powerslam by Sheamus…right next to the table. That was dumb. Sheamus put Barrett on the table then went to the top, but Barrett got off the table and met Sheamus. Sheamus headbutted Barrett off and Sheamus fell off the top, but made it over the table. Back-breaker by Sheamus as the table was set up in the corner. Sheamus set up Barrett for the High Cross, but Jinder Mahal ran out. Sheamus knocked him off the apron, but Barrett grabbed Sheamus and threw him through the table for the win.

WINNER: Barrett, at 6:41. Surprised they’re keeping Mahal vs. Sheamus going, given Sheamus’ convincing win over Mahal last week.

4 – TED DIBIASE vs. HUNICO – FLAG MATCH

Before the match, the wheel spun backstage, and the men had to engage in a flag match. Mathews called this the first flag match in Smackdown history. The crew set up the flags as the announcers talked about the rules. They also aired an inset retort by DiBiase, addressing Hunico and Camcaho’s complaints from the previous week. He said the two men can have a party of their own after the match…a pity party. Once the bell sounded, DiBiase landed an inverted sit-out powerbomb. He went for the American flag, but Hunico grabbed him and slammed him off the buckle. He went for the Mexican flag, but DiBiase put Hunico on his shoulders and gave him the Electric Chair. Hunico back-dropped DiBiase over the top and to ringside, with authority. Hunico climbed the rope to grab the flag, but didn’t appear tall enough. DiBiase, at the last second, shoved Hunico off and onto Camacho. DiBiase crawled to the American flag. Hunico tried to stop him, but fell victim to Dream Street. DiBiase was able to grab the flag for the win.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 2:23. Solid match for the time given. Hunico has done a really nice job in these short matches as of late.

5 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. SANTINO MARELLA – BLINDFOLD MATCH

McIntyre was already in the ring. Marella pulled out a blindfold for his Cobra as well. Mathews said Santino told him he would bring more Divas to Smackdown as part of his assistant role. Marella used the crowd to pint him toward McIntyre, but missed on a Cobra try. McIntyre heard Marella hit the ropes and tackled him through the ropes and to ringside. McIntyre punched the post thinking it was Marella. The guys made their way back into the ring. Charles Robinson almost took the Cobra and while he was avoiding Santino, McIntyre peeked, but missed a running boot. Santino again used the crowd and this time the Cobra connected for the victory.

WINNER: Marella, at 2:09. If you’re going to do this kind of match, Santino is pretty much the perfect guy to do it with.

6 – MARK HENRY vs. DANIEL BRYAN – LUMBERJACK MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Henry barked at Barreta before he got into the ring. Henry took off his t-shirt and tossed it at Bryan after formal ring introductions and once the bell rang. Bryan was thrown to the apron and told the lumberjacks (Barrett and Gabriel among them) not to touch him. Henry headbutted Bryan down. Bryan slid under the ring and Bryan pushed Reks. He lectured the men from the apron and Henry jumped him as soon as Bryan entered the ring. Henry stepped on Bryan’s chest with both feet. Bryan fought out of the corner and was headbutted back down. Hard shot to the chest by Henry. “All day long!” he shouted. “Daniel Bryan” chant. Henry sent Bryan to ringside, where he was thrown back in by Barrett. He asked what they were doing and Barrett responded, “I’m doing my job.” They went to break with Bryan sitting in the corner at 2:58.

Back at 5:54 of the match, with Henry giving Bryan a monster beal out of the corner. Bryan tried to fight back and chopped Henry. Running dropkick in the corner by the champion and Henry was down to his knees. Kick to the head of Henry for a two-count. Henry powered out and Bryan fell through the ropes. He and the Lumberjacks stared at each other and they began to slowly advance on him, leading him to get back in the ring. Henry, given time to recover, had his way with Bryan. He even turned Bryan inside-out with a clothesline. Henry press slammed Bryan out of the ring. What sounded like an edit had Cole point out that Bryan raked the eyes of Henry as he performed the move. A brief attack on Bryan occurred outside the ring. Bryan dropkicked Henry out of the ring. They ganged up on Henry but Bryan kicked away at them. Cody Rhodes, Ted DiBiase, Wade Barrett and Ezekiel Jackson attacked Bryan in the ring. No bell here. Henry shrugged off the Lumberjacks and peeled them off of Bryan back in the ring. He picked Bryan up for the World’s Strongest Slam, but Rhodes kicked Henry. All the lumberjacks got in the ring and a big brawl ensued. Still no bell. Henry was down in the ring and Bryan skulked away with his title. Henry was able to roll out of the ring.

WINNER: No Contest (no bell), around 11:30 (timed until the end of the show).

Backstage, Long caught up to Brayn. Long asked what the meaning of this was. Bryan said 30 guys were trying to beat him up out there and asked if Long was going to have him fight on the moon next. Long said no, but at the Royal Rumble, Bryan would face Henry and Big Show in a Triple Threat Match for the title inside a Steel Cage. The camera lingered on Bryan’s reaction to that news before fading out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 25 2012, 01:22 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-23-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_57308.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & JOHN CENA vs. U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Cena started things off before Punk tagged in for a basic exchange with Swagger. They came to a stalemate and Laurinaitis was shown texting or tweeting as they cut to break 1:30 in.

Back from break, Cena scored a close two count on Ziggler as Cole hyped Laurinaitis's decision-making. Ziggler and Cena then went back and forth on the ropes before Ziggler simply stopped, "showed off," and walked over to Swagger for a tag. Cena took it to Swagger, then did a Flair/Double J strut, only to take a blindside attack from Swagger. Ziggler and Swagger then worked over Cena as Punk reached out for a tag. Meanwhile, Cole re-referenced Mick Foley wanting a spot in the Royal Rumble, but Laurinaitis won't allow it.

Cena broke free at 9:40 and made the hot tag to Punk as Ziggler tagged in for the heels. Punk took it to Ziggler with signature offense before calling for the GTS. Ziggler escaped, though, only to eat a roundhouse kick to the head. Punk made a cover, but Swagger broke up the pin. Cena and Swagger then brawled to the outside, where they traded submission holds. Back in the ring, Punk slammed Ziggler and wanted to go up top, but the ref was in the way. Punk told him to move, then Laurinaitis hopped on the ring apron to reprimand Punk for moving the ref away. Punk then grabbed Laurinaitis, causing Laurinaitis to drop to the floor. Ziggler then rolled up Punk from behind and hooked his tights for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Ziggler & Swagger at 11:09.

2 -- KANE vs. ZACK RYDER -- Falls Count Anywhere match
 
Ryder tried a pre-emptive attack, but Kane brushed it aside and knocked Ryder to the outside. Kane stalked Ryder and delivered knees to the gut, followed by strikes to the back. Kane continued the assault as Eve emerged ringside in the background. Eve called out to Zack, who ate the announce table. They cut to break with Ryder in trouble.
 
Back from break, Kane was toying with Ryder as Lawler implored Eve to get away from the action. Kane then applied his mandible claw-like maneuver to choke Ryder before letting go. Cole surmised Kane wants to continue torturing Ryder. Kane then flung Ryder over the guardrail into the front row area.
 
Cole noted Kane is sending a message to Cena ahead of the Rumble. The action moved to the intersection of the floor and bleacher seats next to the production area. Kane continued to focus on Ryder's injured mid-section before Ryder finally fought back, only to take an uppercut. Kane ripped off the tape around Ryder's mid-section, then dragged him toward the entrance stage. On the stage, Kane blasted Ryder into the base of the giant WWE logo. Kane followed with more knees to the gut, then made a cover, but Ryder kicked out. Cole wondered aloud if this is the smart move by Ryder.
 
The crowd tried to rally with a "Let's Go Ryder...woo woo woo-woo-woo" chant as Ryder sold near unconsciousness on the stage. Ryder suddenly fought back with strikes, but Kane decked him on the stage with an uppercut. Kane then gripped Ryder around the throat and delivered a chokeslam through a gimmicked portion of the stage. Eve immediately ran up the entrance ramp to the stage and tried looking down at Ryder before Kane stalked her down the ramp toward the ring. Kane looked over his shoulder as the ringside medic tried running around Kane to check on Ryder.
 
Kane suddenly turned around when he spotted John Cena on the entrance stage. Kane disappeared through the crowd as Cena and Eve looked through the hole in the stage to check on Ryder. Cena went back and forth between checking on Ryder and looking around for Kane before covering his mouth with his hand. The camera finally got a shot of the hole below the stage, where Ryder was selling unconsciousness. Ryder was placed on a backboard as Eve sold tears. Cena had a blank stare partly concerned for Ryder and partly selling fear over his possible Sunday night against Kane. They suddenly cut to break.
 
WINNER: No Contest at 13:35 when they cut to break. There was a lot of raw emotion in the crowd that Cena could turn into a babyface promo passionately vowing revenge on Kane at the PPV.

3 -- SHEAMUS vs. JINDER MAHAL
 
Sheamus quickly dismantled Mahal before Wade Barrett confidently strutted down to ringside sporting his big overcoat and dress clothes. Sheamus tried to ignore Barrett before blasting away at Mahal's chest with multiple strikes. Sheamus locked eyes with Barrett, then Mahal took the distraction as an opportunity to throw Sheamus off the top turnbuckle. Barrett hyped his Rumble chances as Mahal scored with offense on Sheamus. Barrett then turned his attention to Randy Orton, vowing to cripple Orton like Kane did to Ryder. In the ring, Sheamus made a comeback, then hit the Brogue Kick. Sheamus with the cover for the win.
 
WINNER: Sheamus at 3:12.
 
4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. HEATH SLATER
 
The bell sounded and Slater ran into a shoulder tackle. Clay danced and jiggled as Regal brought his NXT style commentary to the match. Clay got upset when Slater tried offense, so Clay delivered a suplex and big corner splash. Clay followed with his "What the funk?" finisher before noting someone needs to call Slater's momma as he made the pin. Cue up the post-match dance celebration.
 
WINNER: Clay at 0:52. The crowd wasn't into Clay - booing or cheering - as much as past crowds. The audience seems to be waiting for Clay's re-introduction to go somewhere.

5 -- THE MIZ vs. R-TRUTH -- Loser gets #1 spot in Rumble
 
Miz dominated early on before knocking Truth to the outside. They cut to break two minutes in with Miz posing in the ring.
 
Back from break, Miz was still in control of the match. Truth fought back with knock-down clotheslines before rolling up Miz for a close two count. Truth followed with a pancake suplex for a nearfall, then Miz visibly called the next sequence of moves. Miz eventually teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Truth blocked. Miz came back with a kneeling DDT for a two count. Miz nearly got himself DQ'ed, then walked into Truth's Little Jimmy finisher for the pin and the win. Miz gets the undesired #1 slot in the Rumble. Afterward, Truth left and Miz sold shock as he realized what just happened.
 
WINNER: Truth at 8:13.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 26 2012, 04:33 pm
WWE NXT Results: 1-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57402.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - THE USOS vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Hawkins and Jimmy start off. Jimmy elbows him down and tags in Jey, leading to a quick double-team for a one count. Reks blind tags in, but Jey outwits him. Jey keeps Hawkins out of the ring, letting Reks hit a big boot before tagging in Hawkins.

Reks and Hawkins run their isolation routine on Jey for a few minutes. Jey crotches Reks on the ropes and Regal says, "He's ruptured his custard." Double tag out and Jimmy cleans house on Hawkins. Stinkface, but Reks breaks up the pin. Reks and Jimmy brawl ringside, letting Hawkins set up some funky move. The ref is distracted by Jey, so Reks tosses the cane to Hawkins, but Jimmy lands a surprise superkick for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos in 7:00. Good match as expected, but the formula is starting to wear a little thin for a regular viewer like me. I've seen these two face off two many times lately.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater surprises Barreta with a fast punch to the face, but Barreta comes out of the corner with a chop and ends up clearly Slater from the ring. Slater suckers Barreta to the outside and starts up some offense. Slater rolls Barreta into the ring for a two count. Barreta can't get traction against Slater. Barreta finally turns things around, dodging a corner splash and landing a dropkick. Barreta with a big leaping elbow in the corner and the Gobstopper Knee for two.

Slater tries a Sunet Flip over the ropes, but Barreta catches him and bridges for a nearfall, neat sequence. Barreta gets up to the top rope but Slater jumps up to lands a powerslam in a snap for a close two count. Barreta tries an inside cradle for two. Slater shrugs off the Dudebuster DDT and lands his finisher for the win. (I haven't seen his finisher in over six months.)

WINNER: Heath Slater in 7:00. Well that was definitely the biggest surprise WWE's had in a while - a Heath Slater win?

3 - PERCY WATSON vs. TITUS O'NEIL

Watson starts off fast with quick offense capped by a running step-up enziguri. Watson continues the offense in the corner but O'Neil gets in a punch as the ref tries to break them apart. O'Neil dumps Watson from the ring and beats on him outside. O'Neil rolls Watson into the ring and covers for a one count. Regal makes an interesting statement, saying that he wrestled for money, and that people paid more money to see him get beat up, so he made more money.

O'Neil continues his assault and covers for two. Watson gets separation, but O'Neil dodges a splash in the corner and stomps away on Watson, which gets two. Watson can't get a break and O'Neil continues to dominate him. Watson gets a boot run, shoulder tackle, dropkick, corner splash, and another shoulder tackle to take O'Neil down. Watson with the Showtime Splash for two. O'Neil elbows out of a fireman's carry and picks Watson up for the Clash of the Titus mid-ring. It's good for a three count.

Post-match, O'Neil continues to beat up Watson. Alex Riley makes the save to a huge pop from the crowd.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil in 8:00. Effective match to get over Titus as a heel, but his offense isn't thrilling in large quantities. He needs some more sizzle with his steak.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 28 2012, 11:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 1-26-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_57438.shtml)

1 - TYSON KIDD vs. JINDER MAHAL

Wait, who's the heel here? Are they perhaps turning Tyson Kidd face?

Mahal sends Kidd to the corner after an early lock-up. After the break, he mouths off. Kidd with a waistlock, but Mahal powers out as Matt Striker talks up Kidd's "dedicated following." Mahal with a wristlock, but Kidd springboards off the ropes and arm drags Mahal to escape. On the outside, Kidd with a cannonball roll off the apron and he hand slaps fans ringside. It's confirmed, this is a face turn for Kidd.

Back in the ring, Kidd gets a two count, but Mahal goes on the attack in the corner. Mahal gets a two count off a neckbreaker, then a butterly suplex for two. A few vocal males chant for Tyson Kidd as Mahal grounds him with a quarter nelson. Mahal uses knees to cut off a comeback, but Kidd transitions Mahal's suplex into a lateral press for two. Kidd armdrags while running the ropes and lands some kicks and a basement drop kick. Kidd uses speed to control Mahal, then does an innovative springboard reverse sunset flip into a cover for two. You had to see it to believe it.

Kidd dropkicks Mahal's knees out, then lands a springboard guillotine leg drop. Kidd to the top rope and tries a moonsault, but Mahal dodges and follows up with a slam to the ground. Mahal settles into the Camel Clutch and Kidd taps after a struggle.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal via submission in 6:00. Good match. Tyson Kidd is just stellar, and Mahal worked very well with him. I am a fan of Mahal's in-ring work, as I think he brings a good martial arts feel to the matches that sets him apart from the rest of the roster. I'm not sure if a full turn for Kidd means much since he was never a strong heel and his last face run was weak as well. Kidd is a perfect example of someone who could really benefit from a manager, valet, stable leader, etc. to act as a mouthpiece. His in-ring work is quite likely Top Five in WWE, but he just hasn't found his groove as a character to take him to the next level.

2 - BETH PHOENIX vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella)

Wow, Beth Phoenix still exists! Where has she been? What happened to "Pin-up Strong?" Is she still a heel? Pre-match, Scott Stanford talks up Beth Phoenix's crusade against the Barbie dolls, so I guess she is still a heel.

To start, Bella shoves Phoenix, so Phoenix shoves her down to the mat, and when Bella pops up, Phoenix levels her with a lariat. Phoenix with elbows, atomic drop, and a side slam for two. Phoenix with a corner splash, and when she tries to follow up with a splash on the ropes, Nikki pulls Brie out of the way, causing Phoenix to get tangled up and fall down. Bella with a bulldog and stomps to ground Phoenix. Bella chokes Phoenix on the ropes and covers for two. Bella tries to stomp Phoenix on the mat, but Phoenix catches the foot.

Phoenix with some power offense, but Bella with a neckbreaker for two. Bella with a rear chinlock and Phoenix calls to the crowd for help. Phoenix stands up with Bella on her back, rams her into the turnbuckle, and then sets up a slingshot suplex. Phoenix calls for the Glam Slam, but Nikki gets on the apron, so Phoenix shoves Brie into Nikki to clear her out, then when Brie bounces back, catches her and lands the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 3:00. Fun match. I think the Bella Twins are the only main roster Divas with a truly well defined character; others have it, but they aren't "main roster." Who doesn't love them some Beth Phoenix? WWE has a problem handling her character, because fans want to cheer a winner, and she's a dominant winner. Without letting her destroy the Divas division a la Mark Henry, WWE just can't keep her heel. Pretending she's just a monster face instead of a monster heel is a good choice, and would explain why she's been off TV for a while, to let fans forget "Pinup Strong."

3 - KOFI KINGSTON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

McGilicutty with an arm drag as the announcers noted that Kingston was McGillicutty's NXT Pro. McGillicutty still in control. Kingston trips McGillcutty and lands a standing senton splash that looked like a botched Boom Drop for a one count. Kingston with an armbar, but McGillicutty gets him to the corner. Kofi with an elbow to take control and a pendulum kick and a big crossbody gets two. Kingston with work on McGillicutty's arm. McGillcutty gets sent over the rope and Kingston ends up landing a suicide dive leading to break.

Kingston still in control back from the break, but McGillicutty turns it around with a neckbreaker through the ropes to get two. McGillicutty with more offense. Kingston finally turns things around with a kick to McGillicutty's head. After they recover, Kingston starts his usual comeback sequence. After a Boom Drop, Kingston looks for Trouble in Paradise, but McGillicutty ducks. McGillcutty tries a dropkick but Kingston sidesteps and knocks him to the mat.

Kingston with the SOS, but McGillicutty grabs the rope. McGillicutty hot shots Kingston on the rope and does the worst imitation of Edge's Spear warm-up I've ever seen. Kingston ducks his move and they trade counters and Kingston lands the Trouble in Paradise off the ropes for the win.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston in 11:00. Michael McGillicutty just does not put together interesting matches. He has potential, but he needs to internalize two major points. First, he is not big enough for a slow, plodding offense to be believable or create enough visual effect to let the audience ignore the slow pace. Secondly, he absolutely needs to develop some signature moves. The fact that his finisher is a fancy neckbreaker is symbolic of the fact that his skillset feels very "wrestling school 101" - punch, kick, dropkick, arm drag, and neckbreaker. He needs those trademark combos and signature moves for the audience to invest in his matches and see him as anything more than a generic face on the screen.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 30 2012, 02:03 pm
WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12 (next four posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_57526.shtml)

1 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY -- World Title match -- steel cage match

Once the bell sounded, Bryan tried to escape, but the two big men yanked him down to the mat. Big Show then squished Henry in-between a cage wall and ropes with consecutive splashes. No, Henry did not fall out of the cage due to the "collapsing cage wall" gimmick. In the background, Bryan tried to run out, but Show grabbed him and landed a chop to the chest. Bryan avoided a WMD strike, but ate a cage wall from Henry. The two big men took turns trying to wear down Bryan while keeping the other at bay. Meanwhile, the announcers played up the Bryan/A.J. relationship.

Bryan suddenly came back with a DDT on Show, followed by a LeBell Lock. The crowd called for Show to escape, then Henry took care of it for Show with a kick to Bryan's head. Show suddenly KO Punched Henry, then made a cover, but Bryan made a desperation save. Bryan then tried a desperation escape to a strong reaction, but Show climbed to the top of the cage to grab Bryan. Show actually made it to a sitting position on top of the cage and tried to hold onto Bryan, but Bryan fell to the floor, winning the match.

Afterward, Bryan celebrated his "crafty" victory while Show remained stunned sitting on top of the cage. Bryan celebrated a bit longer before they cut to a replay of Show losing his grip on Bryan, leading to Bryan crashing to the floor to escape the cage and win the match. They went back to Show selling frustration and Bryan celebrating a World Series-like victory on the stage. PWTorch correspondent Michael Cupach noted Henry had to be helped to the back after the match due to his pre-existing injury.

WINNER: Bryan at 9:08 to retain the World Title. Fine opening match with good heat. The match appeared to be kept short due to Henry's limitations. (**)

2 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA & BELLA TWINS vs. KELLY KELLY & EVE & ALICIA FOX & TAMINA -- eight-Divas tag match
 
After the Cena video aired, Beth Phoenix's music played to bring out the heel Divas for an eight-Divas tag match. Kelly Kelly's music then brought out the face Divas, including Eve, who was selling concern over Zack Ryder's condition from Raw. On cue, the match settled into the heels wearing down a "distracted" Eve. Fox, then Kelly Kelly took hot tags and the action broke down, then spilled to the outside. Kelly got her shine with a big splash onto everyone. But, back in the ring, Beth nailed the Glam Slam on Kelly for the win.
 
WINNERS: Team Phoenix at 5:29.

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. KANE
 
Once the bell sounded, Cena tried to blast away with right hands to make this look like a fight more than a match. The crowd picked up a loud dueling chant that was heavy on "Cena Sucks" versus "Let's Go Cena." The match moved to the floor, where Cena rammed Kane into the guardrail. Kane sold a right knee injury before limping back into the ring. Cena immediately went for the Attitude Adjustment, but Kane fell on top of his back. Kane then went to work on Cena, trying to wear him down.
 
Cena found an opening with a drop toe hold, then went for a bulldog, but Kane flung him away into the ropes. Kane then ran over Cena with a big clothesline before Kane peered down at his hand, as if to sell he was thinking about his mandible claw-like maneuver. Kane tried the un-named mouth-stuffer, but Cena blocked. Suddenly, Cena transitioned into the STF center-ring. Kane flung him away, though, and dropped Cena with a sidewalk slam.
 
Next, Kane set up for and connected with a top-rope clothesline. Kane then measured Cena for a chokeslam, but Cena ducked and delivered a sit-out slam. Cena then called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle to loud boos, but Kane blocked the You Can't See Me part with a chokeslam tease. Cena escaped, but ate a big boot to the face. Kane made a cover, but Cena kicked out. The match moved up-top, where Cena blocked a superplex before connecting with a top-rope Five Knuckle Shuffle fist drop. Cena then wanted the AA, but Kane emphatically elbowed out before tossing Cena to the outside.
 
On the outside, Kane landed right hand blows as the referee applied a ten count in the background. As expected, the fight continued ringside with Kane ignoring the referee. Kane and Cena continued to brawl after the bell rang for a double count-out, then Cena blasted Kane with a portable light fixture along the entrance ramp. The fight moved to the stage area, then to the production area.
 
The fight spilled backstage, where Cena threw Kane into a row of trash cans. Kane went underneath a table, though, and retrieved a chair to jab into Cena's mid-section. Cena took a chair shot across the back, then another. Kane wasn't done, though, as he spotted Zack Ryder's locker room. He kicked down the flimsy door, finding Ryder alone in his wheelchair. Kane tried choking Ryder with his mandible claw before wheeling Ryder out of the locker room, past Cena. Kane scared away stagehands before wheeling Ryder back into the arena area. The cameras picked up Kane wheeling Ryder down the entrance ramp before throwing him out of the chair on the ground.
 
Kane flung Ryder into the ring, then Eve suddenly jogged into the ring. Eve begged Kane to have mercy on Ryder, but Kane lifted up Ryder and delivered a Tombstone Piledriver for a nostalgia pop. Eve covered her mouth and sold tears before Kane turned toward Eve. Suddenly, Cena re-emerged and charged the ring to blast away at Kane. He tried an AA, but sold a back injury. Kane then chokeslammed Cena mid-ring. Eve was left alone, but Kane decided his work was done and left the ring. Kane's music played and he disappeared to the back as Eve checked on a fallen Ryder.
 
Kane's music stopped, then referees, Eve, and WWE's ringside doctor were shown checking on Ryder. They went to a replay of Kane's destruction before returning to the ring, where Ryder was placed on a stretcher as Eve cried. In the background, Cena recovered as he watched Ryder being placed on a backboard. Booker solemnly said this could be the end of Ryder's career. A light "Cena Sucks" chant could be heard. WWE then faded to a BA STAR video package.
 
WINNER: Double count-out at 10:56. This was more of a match than expected, but the non-finish was expected. Clearly, the Cena-Kane feud will continue on TV until they hit the big WM28 hype.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 30 2012, 02:04 pm
4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. DREW MCINTYRE
 
"Funk-a-sauras" chant when the bell sounded. Clay shook and jiggled to intimidate McIntrye, but Mac nailed him with strikes to drive Clay to the corner. Clay started to "Jiggle Up," though, and delivered his signature offense before nailing his "What The Funk?" finisher for the win. Cue up Clay and Funkettes with a post-match celebration.
 
WINNER: Clay at 1:05. Well, there you go.

5 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- WWE Title match -- John Laurinaitis ringside enforcer
 
Once the bell sounded, Cole accused Booker of being jealous of Laurinaitis dating back to WCW and said Laurinaitis was a better "worker" than Booker. As for the match, Ziggler "showed off" early on, drawing a smirk from Punk. Punk tried a quick submission afterward, but Ziggler escaped to the ropes. Punk then knocked Ziggler to the outside and landed a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Ziggler cut off Punk and began wearing down the champ. Ziggler stalked Punk for a Fameasser, but Punk countered with a nice spinning sit-out powerbomb for a close two count.
 
The match reset with Punk landing a chop to the chest, then right hand strikes. Punk followed with a corner knee and running bulldog before calling for the GTS. Punk set up for his finisher, but Ziggler elbowed out. Ziggler and Punk then traded holds before Punk grazed Ziggler with a kick to the head for a two count.
 
Punk followed with a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop, but Ziggler kicked out in time. "Randy Savage" chant from the crowd, then the ref was bumped out of the ring. Laurinaitis tried checking on the ref ringside while Punk and Ziggler battled in the ring. Punk locked in his submission finisher and Ziggler tapped out, but there was no ref. Punk then released the hold and yelled at Laurinaitis, who said he's helping the ref. Punk then scored a visual three count, but still no ref. Laurinaitis dragged the ref back into the ring, then Laurinaitis took a kick to the head as Punk hoisted Ziggler into position for the GTS. Punk delivered the GTS again, then scored another visual three count. Punk argued with Laurinaitis, telling him he had the match won three times. Punk went for the GTS again, but Ziggler countered with a mid-air Zig-Zag. He made a cover, but Punk kicked out just in time of the ref's three count, drawing a big reaction for the nearfall. Ringside, Laurinaitis sold frustration.
 
Ziggler tried to follow up with right hands, but Punk scored with a catapult that sent Ziggler flying into the top turnbuckle. Punk followed up with the GTS and Punk made a cover. The ref began his count, Laurinaitis slid into the ring, and both men counted to three, giving Punk the win. The announcers debated whether Laurinaitis did that simply to keep his job tomorrow night or whether he's really a good man. They went to a replay of the various visual falls for Punk, Ziggler's close pin attempt, and Punk's eventual victory. Back live, Punk was shown sitting down in the ring with his title belt. On the stage, Laurinaitis flashed a smile and applauded.
 
WINNER: Punk at 14:32 to retain the WWE Title. Below expectations in terms of match length and reaching "show-stealing level" Punk and Ziggler talked about in interviews ahead of time. The match story involving Punk and Laurinaitis fit the TV build-up, but didn't feel like a PPV match. Ziggler essentially taking four losses shows where he stands in this program. PWTorch columnist Greg Parks pointed out in a tweet, "So, Ziggler had four wins over Punk coming into this one, and Punk had four pinfalls in that match. Even-steven." (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 30 2012, 02:05 pm
6 -- 30-MAN ROYAL RUMBLE MATCH
 
Cue up The Miz's music as the #1 entrant, per the final Raw before the PPV. Miz emerged through his "Awesome" bubble letters from WM27 last year as Cole declared that Miz will go coast-to-cast tonight. In the ring, Miz took the mic and said everyone backstage is laughing and snickering at him for being #1. He said those same people doubted him when he first set foot in WWE and he will prove everyone wrong tonight. Alex Riley came out as #2 to begin the match. After a brief exchange, Miz dumped Riley over the top rope, eliminating Riley. Miz then danced around in the ring, waiting for his next foe.
 
Conveniently, #3 was R-Truth, another former Miz tag partner. No eliminations, then #4 was introduced as IC champion Cody Rhodes. Booker grumbled as Rhodes charged the ring and delivered a Disaster Kick to Truth. Rhodes and Miz then double-teamed Truth before Rhodes pointed to the WM28 banner. No eliminations, then #5 was Justin Gabriel to no reaction. Gabriel tried some offense, but Rhodes quickly cut him off. No eliminations, then #6 was Primo. No sign of Rosa Mendes, which Lawler of course pointed out on commentary. In the sea of humanity, Miz chucked Truth over the top rope for an elimination at 7:12. Truth popped up, though, and yanked Miz under the bottom rope to deliver his finisher. Miz was not eliminated, though.
 
At #7 was Mick Foley, who emerged to a strong reaction. Foley, sporting a red flannel shirt and Cactus Jack t-shirt, popped Primo with right hands. Foley then eliminated Primo, earning his first elimination of the night. Foley followed with a corner knee to Rhodes's head before delivering a double-arm DDT. Next up at #8 was Alberto Del Rio returning from a one-month absence due to injury. Instead of Del Rio, though, it was Ricardo Rodriguez in a beat up car doing Del Rio's gimmick. So, Ricardo is the official #8 entrant. Ricardo did Del Rio's shtick before slowly entering the ring. "Ricardo, Ricardo" chant as he approached Gabriel and Foley before pounding away on Rhodes. Suddenly, Ricardo and Foley double-teamed to eliminate Gabriel at 11:26.
 
Santino came out at #9, setting up a battle between Santino and Ricardo. They did a comedy bit rolling across the ring before Santino gave Ricardo a wedgie and tossed him over the top rope at 12:51. So, it was Socko vs. Cobra with Miz still on the outside. Foley and Santino dueled with their respective hand-puppets before #10 was revealed as Epico. Epico was promptly eliminated by Foley's Socko at 13:56. Foley and Santino tried to resume their duel, but Rhodes and Miz jumped them. Rhodes eliminated Santino at 14:28, then Rhodes eliminated Foley at 14:47. That left Miz and Rhodes in the ring before #11 was revealed as Kofi Kingston. Kofi tried to eliminate Miz, but Rhodes helped out Miz.
 
At 16:30, #12 was revealed as Jerry Lawler, who stripped off his non-wrestling gear and left the announce table to enter the Rumble. Lawler and Miz resumed their feud from last year and the end of 2010 before Lawler went up top for a fist drop on Miz. Suddenly, Rhodes dumped Lawler over the top rope at 17:31. "Dammit!" Booker said. Next, #13 was revealed as Ezekiel Jackson. Zeke stormed the ring as Lawler returned to the announce table. No eliminations, then #14 was Jinder Mahal to an even smaller reaction than Gabriel. Jinder took a good, long walk to the ring as they hit the 20:00 mark. No eliminations.
 
At #15, Great Khali made his big return right after Jinder's entrance. Khali waddled to the ring to resume his feud with Mahal, but not after chopping down the other Rumble entrants. Khali then dumped out Mahal at 21:40. Ezekiel Jackson was the next cut at 21:55. The crowd came to life for #16, which was Hunico on his lowrider bike. In the ring, Hunico flew at Kingston before delivering some high-impact offense. No eliminations, then #17 was Booker T, who stood up, took off his dress clothes, and hit the ring, much to Cole's chagrin. Booker went after Rhodes, then came face-to-face with Khali's gut. "Booker T" chant as the six men in the Rumble traded control. For this year's John Morrison Spiderman moment, Miz dumped Kofi over the top rope, but Kofi did a handstand across the ring, hit the ring steps, and re-entered the ring to avoid elimination. Big reaction for Kofi's feat.
 
At #18, Dolph Ziggler entered the ring fresh off a WWE Title match loss. Cole resumed his praise for Kofi avoiding elimination as Ziggler worked on Kofi. No eliminations, then #19 was revealed as Hacksaw Jim Duggan to a huge nostalgia reaction. Duggan promptly cleaned house to "USA" chants before clotheslining Hunico. Duggan got in his spots, but Rhodes eliminated him at 28:31. Booker and Khali were then eliminated simultaneously by Rhodes and Ziggler at 28:55. At #20, Michael Cole excitedly had his name called. Cole dropped his clothes, put on his amateur wrestling gear, and hit the ring as Booker joined the announcers. Cole proudly entered the Rumble, pointed to the WM28 sign, posed in the ring, danced around, and waited for someone to face him.
 
At #21, Kharma's music played to a big reaction. And here comes Kharma back in a WWE ring. Cole started crying as Kharma approached him and dropped him. Booker went nuts as Kharma stalked Cole before Booker and Lawler yanked Cole out of the ring at 31:25. Suddenly, Kharma dropped Ziggler with a butterfly suplex, prompting Vickie Guerrero to confront her. No matter, as Kharma eliminated Hunico at 31:55. But, Ziggler eliminated Kharma from behind at 32:02. Out next at #22 was Sheamus, who cleaned house on folks. Sheamus then cut Kofi at 33:12. Next, Rhodes took ten forearm strikes to the chest. Miz was next to take the strikes to the chest.
 
At #23, Road Dogg Jesse James returned to action. Dogg, in DX gear, cleaned house on the heels before delivering rapid-fire jabs to Rhodes. Miz then took a pumphandle slam. Dogg got in his signature moves and remained in the match past another entry. At #24, Jey Uso came out, accompanied by Jimmy Uso. Cole name-dropped Rikishi as Uso landed a corner splash on Dogg. No eliminations, then #25 was revealed as U.S. champion Jack Swagger to groans. Swagger joined the group, which still included #1 Miz. No eliminations. At #26, Wade Barrett came out to random new music. It does not fit Barrett at all. Barrett stormed the ring and attacked everyone in the ring before dumping Road Dogg at 39:05. Down to the final four entrants, starting with David Otunga as #27. Otunga took his sweet time entering the ring as Cole noted they hit the 40:00 mark with Miz still in the Rumble.
 
Out next at #28 was Randy Orton to a huge pop in Orton's hometown. Business picked up real quick with Orton storming Barrett and cleaning house. Rhodes cut off Orton, but Orton set up Rhodes and Ziggler for a double spike DDT from the second rope. Uso tried to get Orton, but Orton chucked him out at 42:37. Orton then tossed Barrett at 42:45. And, out at #29 was Chris Jericho after the lights went out in the arena momentarily. Jericho then promptly tossed Otunga at 43:33. The men remaining in the ring struggled for eliminations leading to the final entry.
 
And, out last at #30 was Big Show. No Cena, Kane, or Henry. Show stormed the ring and Swagger was eliminated at 45:08, then KO Punched by Show. In the ring, Show eliminated both Miz and Rhodes at 45:40. Show then tossed Ziggler at 45:55. And, the Final Four is Sheamus, Jericho, Big Show, and Orton. The other three tried to gang up on Show, but Show fought them off. Orton suddenly dropped Show with an RKO, though. Suddenly, Orton lifted Show up and over the top rope at 47:11. Jericho then tossed Orton right after at 47:16, shocking the hometown crowd. So, it was Jericho vs. Sheamus.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 30 2012, 02:06 pm
Jericho and Sheamus circled the ring as the camera focused on the WM28 banner hanging atop the arena. Jericho pointed to the logo, then the two men circled each other again. Sheamus landed elbow strikes, then Sheamus teased eliminating Jericho, but Jericho held on to the top rope. Jericho avoided elimination, then came off the top rope with a missile dropkick. At 50:00, Sheamus came back with an Irish Curse backbreaker, then tried a Celtic Cross over the top rope, but Jericho blocked. Jericho then clotheslined Sheamus, but Sheamus held onto the top rope. A step-up kick didn't eliminate Sheamus, either.
 
Jericho reset, but Sheamus launched himself with a springboard shoulder tackle from the ring apron back into the ring. Sheamus then tried to eliminate Jericho, but Jericho held on. A Brogue Kick missed, then Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho center-ring. Sheamus reached the bottom rope for a break, and Jericho saluted himself to boos. Jericho was nearly eliminated next, but Jericho pulled himself back into the ring. The action moved to the top turnbuckle and they crotched themselves, teasing a double elimination. Back in the ring, though, Jericho nailed the codebreaker. The crowd was hushed, anticipating a final elimination, which they teased again fighting near the ropes.

Sheamus held on to the top rope to avoid elimination, then Jericho slapped him across the face. Sheamus got The Look in his eyes and shoved Jericho across the ring, but missed with a Brogue Kick. Jericho went for another Codebreaker, but Sheamus blocked and tried to throw Jericho over the top rope, but Jericho held on. Jericho then balanced himself on the ring apron and Sheamus blasted him with a Brogue Kick. Jericho fell off the apron, landing on the floor, and Sheamus is the winner.
 
WINNER: Sheamus at 54:54 to win the 2012 Royal Rumble. And, Jericho's tease of the "End of the World" falls flat. Just an okay Rumble before a strong finish. There were a few of the "memorable Rumble moments," but the Final Two seemed to come too soon and there were too many non-stars in this match, which exposed WWE's lack of roster depth. Assuming Sheamus doesn't "lose his WrestleMania spot" at the Chamber PPV or sometime else, it looks like Bryan vs. Sheamus for the World Title at WM28 on the Smackdown side. Or, WWE could switch the title to Henry and set up the Henry-Sheamus rubber match dating back to 2011. But, that's all to be sorted out in the weeks to come. (***1/2)

ORDER OF ENTRY
 
(1) The Miz
 (2) Alex Riley
 (3) R-Truth
 (4) Cody Rhodes
 (5) Justin Gabriel
 (6) Primo
 (7) Mick Foley
 (8) Ricardo Rodriguez
 (9) Santino
 (10) Epico
 (11) Kofi Kingston
 (12) Jerry Lawler
 (13) Ezekiel Jackson
 (14) Jinder Mahal
 (15) Great Khali
 (16) Hunico
 (17) Booker T
 (18) Dolph Ziggler
 (19) Hacksaw Jim Duggan
 (20) Michael Cole
 (21) Kharma
 (22) Sheamus
 (23) Road Dogg Jesse James
 (24) Jey Uso
 (25) Jack Swagger
 (26) Wade Barrett
 (27) David Otunga
 (28) Randy Orton
 (29) Chris Jericho
 (30) Big Show
 
ORDER OF ELIMINATION
 
(1) Riley at 1:15 (Miz)
 (2) Truth at 7:12 (Miz)
 (3) Primo at 8:34 (Foley)
 (4) Gabriel at 11:26 (Foley & Ricardo)
 (5) Ricardo at 12:51 (Santino)
 (6) Epico at 13:36 (Foley)
 (7) Santino at 14:28 (Rhodes)
 (8) Foley at 14:47 (Rhodes)
 (9) Lawler at 17:31 (Rhodes)
 (10) Mahal at 21:40 (Khali)
 (11) Jackson at 21:55 (Khali)
 (12) Duggan at 28:31 (Rhodes)
 (13) Khali at 28:55 (Rhodes & Ziggler)
 (14) Booker at 28:55 (Rhodes & Ziggler)
 (15) Cole at 31:25 (Kharma)
 (16) Hunico at 31:55 (Kharma)
 (17) Kharma at 32:02 (Ziggler)
 (18) Kingston at 33:12 (Sheamus)
 (19) Road Dogg at 39:05 (Barrett)
 (20) Uso at 42:37 (Orton)
 (21) Barrett at 42:45 (Orton)
 (22) Otunga at 43:33 (Jericho)
 (23) Swagger at 45:08 (Show)
 (24) Miz at 45:40 (Show)
 (25) Rhodes at 45:40 (Show)
 (26) Ziggler at 45:55 (Show)
 (27) Show at 47:11 (Orton)
 (28) Orton at 47:16 (Jericho)
 (29) Jericho at 54:54 (Sheamus)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on January 31 2012, 02:51 pm
WWE RAW Results: 1-30-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_57579.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.


1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Ziggler "showed off" with a Ric Flair strut, which Orton ignored before slapping on a headlock. Orton continued to dominate while the announcers continued to shoot questions to Mathews to ask Barrett in the skybox. Ziggler came back with a dropkick to the head, leading to a commercial.

Back from break, Cole was raving about the match-up, which he transitioned to a defense of Laurinaitis ahead of his "performance evaluation" tonight. Ziggler maintained control as Barrett continued to talk himself up. Orton then came back with a clothesline, but Ziggler avoided a second and delivered a dropkick for a two count. Ziggler channeled Scott Steiner with mid-match sit-ups (instead of push-ups) before climbing up top. He took too long, allowing Orton to crotch him. Vickie screamed ringside as Orton teed off on Ziggler with right hands. Orton then wanted a superplex (big reaction for the set-up) and he delivered his dad's finisher center-ring. Orton made a cover, but Ziggler kicked out.

Orton and Ziggler reset with an exchange of right hands before Orton delivered consecutive clotheslines into a powerslam, which Cole actually called correctly. Orton then wanted his second-rope DDT, but Ziggler slipped out and slapped on a sleeperhold. Orton escaped, then did a sweet roll-over into a roll-up for a nearfall. Ziggler delivered a kick to the knee, though, before delivering a Fameasser for a close nearfall. They cut to a shot of Barrett watching the match from the skybox before the wrestlers reset in the ring.

Orton delivered a clothesline taking Ziggler to the floor before throwing Ziggler into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Orton delivered a second-rope DDT as Vickie screamed and shouted. Orton then stalked Ziggler and delivered the RKO center-ring to a very strong reaction. Orton made the cover and it was good for the win. Post-match, they showed Barrett frowning atop the skybox ahead of their match-up on Smackdown. Orton posed in the ring before Cole plugged Champion vs. Champion between Punk and Bryan tonight. Also, the next inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame.

WINNER: Orton at 11:16. It's amazing what a month off can do for a banged-up wrestler, as Orton looked loose, fresh, inspired, and excited to be in the ring, and had an extra bounce in his step. Excellent match after the commercial and a hot crowd was fully invested in Orton. If this was the kick-start for Orton's run to WrestleMania, it was a hot start. (**1/2)

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. TYLER REKS

Clay jiggled and intimidated Reks with various shaking before accepting a boot to the face. Reks followed with a dropkick that took Clay down to one knee, but Clay started to Funk Up before delivering a belly-to-belly suplex. Clay followed with his "What The Funk?" body splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:04.

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title Champion vs. Champion match

The match started with Bryan in control before teasing a surfboard stretch that he turned into a stomp. Bryan followed with a kick strike before slapping Punk across the face. Punk followed with a kick strike as Cole noted that Bryan's Chamber opponents will be announced on Friday's Smackdown. He added that the champions after the Chamber will defend their titles at Mania. Bryan regained control leading to the top of the hour.

The announcers started switching about Bryan, with Cole starting to warm up to Bryan based on being a vegan and Lawler mocking Bryan. The match moved to the floor, where the two men traded forearm blows. Bryan then tossed Punk over the guardrail into the front row as the referee's ten count continued. Punk made a desperation leap back into the ring just before ten to continue the match. Cole reset the action as Punk and Bryan traded control with both men back in the ring.

Bryan missed with a corner dropkick, then Punk made a cover for a two count. Punk applied a reverse chinlock as Cole went back to heeling on Bryan and Lawler went back to defending Bryan. Bryan then ducked a clothesline before the two men collided hard in the middle of the ring. Cole sent the show to commercial at 6:00 with Bryan and Punk selling the effects.

Back from break, Bryan had Punk secured in a submission lock. Bryan cockily bent Punk's fingers to apply more pressure before stretching the heck out of Punk's torso into a pin for a two count. Bryan stood up, smirked, raised his arms in the air, and went up top, but Punk crotched him. Punk then chopped away at Bryan's chest before climbing up top for a huracanrana after shouting "Best in the World" in Bryan's face. The two men came to their feet and Punk delivered knock-down offense, followed by a swinging neckbreaker. Punk connected with a corner knee followed by a bulldog.

Punk called for the GTS, but Bryan slipped out and bailed to the floor. Bryan shook his head, then turned around to take a baseball slide. Punk wanted a suicide dive, but Bryan intercepted with a forearm. Bryan then went up top for a missile dropkick that connected for a two count. Cole called it an even match-up since the get-go. Bryan then stalked Punk to deliver kick strikes to the chest. A fourth missed, though, and Punk rolled up Bryan for a two count. Bryan then came back with a standing huracanrana, but Punk rolled through into a roll-up for a two count. Bryan immediately came back with a kick to the head and scored a close nearfall.

A dueling chant picked up as Bryan dragged Punk to the corner and hoisted Punk up-top. Bryan wanted a superplex, but Punk blocked and headbutted Bryan to the mat. Punk then stood up on the top turnbuckle and signaled for the Macho Man elbow drop, which he connected with. Punk made a cover, but Bryan kicked out. Punk then tried the GTS, but Bryan countered with a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Bryan went right into the LeBell Lock, but Punk slipped out and catapulted Bryan into the corner. Punk followed with a swift kick to the head and Bryan slipped to the apron.

Suddenly, Chris Jericho stormed the ringside area, flung Bryan away for a DQ ending, and dropped Punk with a codebreaker in the ring. Jericho stared down Punk with an icy glare, then Justin Roberts actually gave the announcement of Bryan winning the match. Bryan's music played and he celebrated his victory on the way out of the ring. They went to a replay of Jericho's attack before Lawler note he doesn't understand that attack. They cut to a shot of Jericho on the stage smirking toward the crowd as Punk tried to recover in the ring.

WINNER: Bryan via DQ at 15:07. Excellent showcase of Punk and Bryan's skills in the ring. Just an excellent match before setting up the expected Punk-Jericho feud. When was the last time Raw had two excellent wrestling matches on the same show? (***1/2)

4 -- THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Miz and Kofi traded control as Truth talked up his Chamber chances. Miz then glared toward Truth, who laughed and said Miz looks so angry. Miz maintained control before Cole excitedly talked up Kofi's handstand to avoid elimination last night. Miz cut off Kofi's comeback with a snap DDT for a nearfall, then Miz mocked Kofi and missed with a corner attack.

Kofi followed up with a high cross-body block for a nearfall, before Miz and Kofi traded finishing move teases while the announcers completely missed the action. Kofi suddenly nailed Trouble in Paradise and made the cover for the win. After a replay, Kofi was shown celebrating in the ring before they went to a still-shot of Kofi's handstand during the Rumble last night.

WINNER: Kingston at 4:15. Very surprising clean result considering Kingston has been floundering with or without Evan Bourne the past few months. Right now, it just looks like renewed focus on Kingston leading to the Chamber, but perhaps it will turn into something more permanent for Kofi. (*3/4)

5 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. EVE -- Divas Title match

Eve came out first and kept looking over her shoulder, nervous about Kane's whereabouts. Beth Phoenix took advantage of Eve's mind being elsewhere and quickly delivered the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 0:30 to retain the Divas Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 13 2012, 02:02 pm
So here's the deal...haven't posted TV results for awhile so if you need an update on them, head to the Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread for all the results (linky to the Neo is below my signature picture).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 13 2012, 02:09 pm
TNA Against All Odds PPV Results: 2-12-12 (next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58034.shtml)

1 -- ZEMA ION vs. JESSE SORENSEN -- #1 contender match to X Division Title

In the ring, Sorensen scored a quick two count before the two men traded pin attempts. Sorensen cleared Ion from the ring, then Ion tried to steal a football from the kid involved in the pre-match bit. Sorensen answered with a baseball slide kick, but missed with a plancha and ate the floor. Ion followed up with a springboard moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen on the floor.

Back in the ring, Ion did the belt-around-the-waist motion as the ref applied a ten count to Sorensen. The ref eventually checked on Sorensen again when Ion didn't respond to the ten count. The ref did the "X" signal before calling for the bell. In the ring, Ion gloated in victory before more medics came to ringside to check on Sorensen. So Cal Val announced Ion as the winner via count-out as they continued to focus on Ion without showing Sorensen KO'ed ringside.

Post-match: They went to a split-screen of Ion gloating and a replay of the match as Sorensen continued to be checked on. As more personnel continued to check on Sorensen, they cut to Tenay and Borash at the announce table to discuss the moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen. Tenay talked to Keith Mitchell and David Sahadi to get another look at the moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen with a knee to the head. They went to camera shots of concerned fans ringside as the announcers continued to fill time.

WINNER: Ion via count-out at 4:04.

2 -- TV champion ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) vs. SHANNON MOORE -- TNA TV Title match
 
Shannon quickly cleared Robbie from the ring, so Robbie and Rob threatened to leave with the title belt. They made it half-way up the entrance ramp before Shannon tracked down Robbie and threw him back into the ring. Back in the ring, Shannon scored with brief offense before Robbie cut him off as JB talked about hanging out with Robbie at the night clubs when they tour various cities.
 
Shannon tried to make a comeback, but Robbie cut him off before delivering a knee from the second rope. Shannon, who looked a bit sluggish in the ring, tried to show fire before teasing a comeback, but Robbie cut him off with a headlock. Shannon then delivered a dropkick to the head that both men on the mat. They came to their feet and Moore made his comeback before knocking Robbie to the outside. Shannon came off the second rope with a springboard moonsault, then scored a nearfall back in the ring.
 
The action moved to the top turnbuckle, where Moore delivered a huracanrana that Robbie sold like a champ. A nearfall resulted. Next, they went to a pinfall exchange sequence before Robbie shoved Moore to the ropes, and Terry popped Shannon in the face. Shannon then rebounded into a swinging DDT from Robbie for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Robbie at 9:32. Robbie really worked hard to make this passable for PPV, as Shannon appeared to be disconnected from the match. The crowd was disconnected, as well, which didn't help matters. Robbie is slotted as a lower-card heel, but he continues to show potential to offer more to TNA.

3 -- Knockouts champion GAIL KIM vs. TARA -- Knockouts Title match
 
After a video package highlighted the Knockouts Title scene, Tara came to the ring as the challenger. KO champ Gail Kim then came to the ring along with Madison Rayne. No shark cage this month, as TNA authority figures have apparently given up on preventing Rayne from interfering. About mid-way through the match, Rayne walked out on Gail, who waved her good-bye. Gail continued to dominate, then her over-confidence led to Tara snapping off a powerslam. Up-top, Tara went for a moonsault and connected, but sold a right knee injury. Tara talked to ref Earl Hebner, then they went to the finish of Gail nailing Eat Defeat for the pin and the win. Post-match: Tara continued to sell the right knee.
 
WINNER: Gail at 6:50. The injury seemed like an "out" for Tara to take the loss, rather than a legit injury, unlike the opening match.

4 -- TNA tag champions MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON vs. SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS -- TNA Tag Title match
 
The challengers were the first men out for the match. The tag champs were out next, with Crimson still billed as "undefeated." Tenay stressed that Crimson has not been pinned in singles or tag matches. Early on, the two teams traded control of the action with all four men tagging in and out, without much standing out. The challengers then double-teamed Crimson to begin wearing him down. Morgan pounded the top turnbuckle to try to rally behind Crimson, but the heels maintained control. The sleepy crowd woke up a bit when Joe delivered a stiff chop to Crimson's chest before stalking him to deliver more offense.
 
Crimson finally made a comeback and tagged in Morgan to a reaction. Magnus also tagged in, setting up a confrontation between Morgan and Magnus. Morgan then dropped Joe with a discus clothesline before ramming the challengers's heads together. Morgan, fired up, measured Magnus for a corner strike, but Magnus blocked, only to take a swinging frontslam from Morgan for a two count. The action broke down at this point. Morgan and Crimson called for the end, but Magnus broke it up. The challengers then had a miscommunication before Crimson and Morgan had a miscommunication. The end result was a snapmare into big elbow from Magnus on Morgan for the pin and the win. New tag champs.
 
Post-match: Joe & Magnus celebrated with the Tag Titles before Crimson re-entered the ring to try to make sense of what happened. They replayed the finish before showing the new tag champs celebrating again. They went to a final shot of Crimson half-way up the entrance ramp shaking his head.
 
WINNERS: Joe & Magnus at 9:58 to capture the TNA Tag Titles. The finish was foreshadowed when Tenay stressed at the beginning of the match that Crimson's "unbeaten streak" includes not being pinned in tag matches. The new tag champs make for a good pairing and it's a good stepping stone for Joe if TNA is going to get behind him again.

5 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. ALEX SHELLEY -- X Division Title match
 
Shelley was the aggressor early on and Aries tried to stall for time. Aries went for a jawbreaker across the top rope and some object went flying into the air, then to the mat. Shelley came back with a top-rope dropkick before Aries disappeared underneath the ring, then came out the other side to sneak-attack Shelley. Aries followed with a suicide dive that KO'ed Shelley on the outside.
 
Back in the ring, Aries dominated Shelley as the crowd tried to rally behind Shelley. Aries took forever to set up his pendulum elbow drop, allowing Shelley to move. However, Aries quickly recovered, only to take a kick to the chest, followed by left-hand jabs and a chop to the chest. Shelley followed with a knock-down clothesline before firing himself up. Shelley knocked Aries to the outside, avoided the same disappearing act trick from Aries, and suicide dive-splashed Shelley on the outside.
 
Back in the ring at 10:00, Shelley scored a close nearfall after delivering Finlay's Celtic Cross finisher. Aries came back with a pendulum elbow smash, then went for a brainbuster, but Shelley blocked. The two men then collided mid-ring and sold on the mat. The action moved to the ring apron, where Aries delivered a DVD across the ring apron. Shelley sold by staring straight ahead with his eyes popping out of his head. Back in the ring, though, Aries could only score a two count. Aries then went up top and missed with a 450 Splash before Shelley connected with Sliced Bread to much excitement. Shelley made the pin, but Aries grabbed the middle rope just before three, drawing gasps from the crowd.

The action reset with Shelley stalking Aries for a kick, but Aries ducked and floated over with knees to the head, followed by a running dropkick. Aries followed right up with a brainbuster and made a cover, but Shelley kicked out just in time. Aries, frustrated, tried another b-buster, but Shelley countered with a small package for a two count before landing multiple kick strikes to the head for another two count. Aries blocked another Sliced Bread attempt before nailing another brainbuster. He transitioned into the Last Chancery and Shelley was forced to tap out moments into the submission hold.
 
WINNER: Aries via submission at 15:08 to retain the X Division Title. Easily the best match of the show thus far and a very good showcase for both men. Aries vs. Ion is next up for the X Division, but an Aries-Shelley series would be good for the division. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 13 2012, 02:12 pm
6 -- A.J. STYLES vs. KAZARIAN (w/Christopher Daniels)
 
Kazarian was forced to wear Daniels's t-shirt to the ring and during the match. Kaz wanted a handshake, but Styles shoved him to the corner and ripped off his t-shirt. Kaz tried to respond, but Styles grabbed him out of the corner and applied a side headlock. The crowd shifted their focus to Daniels, chanting at him that he sucks. In the ring, Styles went for a leapfrog too early and Kaz nearly crashed into his crotch, so Styles chucked Kaz to the floor to reset. Back in the ring, Styles continued to dominate Kaz and the crowd continued to chant at Daniels. Kaz finally scored with offense at 4:30, but was reluctant to follow up, allowing Styles to clear him to the floor. Styles then flew off the ring apron with a flying forearm.
 
Back in the ring, Kaz finally mounted some offense as Daniels pounded the mat to tell Kaz to finish him off. Kaz continued to sell reluctant as Daniels taunted Styles from ringside. Kaz grabbed a front facelock to ground Styles and continue to slow down the match while the fans occupied themselves with Daniels ringside. Styles and Kaz then traded blows mid-ring before Styles came back with a flurry of high-impact offense. Styles wanted the Clash, but Kaz blocked and landed a boot to the face.
 
At 13:00, Styles yanked Kaz off the ring ropes in position for the Clash, but Kaz countered with a bottle-opener twist to escape. Kaz then came flying over the top rope to slam Styles back-first across the ring apron. Styles tried to crawl back into the ring, but Kaz caught him with a cutter. The match moved up top, where Kaz wanted a top-rope suplex, but Styles elbowed out and both men fell to the mat. Styles then nailed his trademark reverse DDT, but Kaz came back with the Wave of the Future frontslam. The two men went through a sequence of pin attempts before Styles dropped Kaz with the Pele Kick. Styles then set up for a springboard splash on Kaz, but stopped his momentum and delivered a springboard moonsault onto Daniels ringside. Styles tried to follow up back in the ring, but Kaz nailed his Fade to Black reverse Tombstone Piledriver. Kaz with the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Kaz at 18:45. About as Even-Steven as you can get with Daniels getting his comeuppance, which the fans wanted to see, and Kaz getting a pinfall over Styles. Overall, the match story was slow developing, which meant the match dragged at times, but they finished strong. (**3/4)

7 -- GARETT BISCHOFF (w/Hulk Hogan) vs. GUNNER (w/Eric Bischoff)
 
Eric got involved early on by tripping Garett from ringside, which caused a stir with Hogan ringside. Back in the ring, Gunner tried to press-slam Garett, but Garett came back with a backslide attempt. Gunner then cut off Garett, which prompted Hogan to shout encouragement from ringside. Garett tried to make a comeback, but Gunner cut him off. At one point during the beat down, Garett seemed to be looking for a hot tag to Hogan, but Gunner cut him off. Garett came back with what looked like step-one of a spinebuster that he suddenly turned into a facebuster. "Oh!" JB shouted, surprised by the move.
 
Hogan told Garett to get back to his base, but Gunner smashed Garett into the top turnbuckle. Gunner then choked Garett across the middle rope before Eric slapped Garett to try to wake up the crowd. Hogan then walked over to Eric, spun him around, and decked Eric with a right hand to a reaction. Back in the ring, though, Gunner delivered a neckbreaker. Hogan told the "future of the business" that he has to get up. He did get up and took a blow to the neck from Gunner. Hogan then slowly crawled onto the ring apron with white towel in hand, but Garett told him not to do it, "showing heart." Gunner then caught Garett with a DDT for the pin and the win. Post-match: Eric slowly pulled himself up to the ring apron and laughed uncontrollably at the result.
 
WINNER: Gunner at 12:01. They should have ended this much sooner. Better yet, not booked it on a nationally-televised pay event. It seems like every time Hogan is involved in something in TNA (especially those counter-productive promos on Impact the last two weeks), TNA takes a step back in their progression as a major wrestling promotion. Embarrassing for everyone involved, especially the announcers having to present this match with a straight face. (DUD)

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. JEFF HARDY vs. JAMES STORM vs. BULLY RAY -- four-way TNA World Title match -- Sting ringside enforcer
 
The bell sounded and Roode continued to try to sell Ray on working together. Ray teased working with Roode, but then slipped out of the ring to stand ringside with arms folded. Hardy and Storm then took turns teeing off on Roode as Ray watched on the floor. As this went on, Tenay relayed an update on Jesse Sorensen that he's undergoing medical tests. Ray then found an opening to enter the ring, but the faces cut him off. Hardy then found himself on the outside, leaving Storm alone in the ring with Ray and Roode.
 
Suddenly, the old Beer Money duo executed a suplex on Ray. They came back-to-back very slowly as the crowd popped. Roode smiled and suggested working together, but he punched Storm in the face. They exchanged right hands before Storm gained the advantage. Hardy then re-entered the ring and hit the Whisper in the Wind on Roode for a two count. Ray then cleared the ring, except for Hardy. Ray picked apart Hardy in the ring while the former Beer Money partners battled on the outside.
 
At 9:00, Ray tried to give Roode instructions as Roode re-entered the ring. Ray wanted a spike piledriver, but Storm cut off Roode and Hardy made a comeback on Ray. Up top, Storm and Hardy set up for a double superplex, but Ray cut them off. Ray then helped launch the superplex spot and all four men crashed to the mat. Ray was the first man up, but could not score a pin. Hardy suddenly recovered and nailed the Twist of Fate, but could not make a cover, as Roode cut him off with a flapjack. Ray suddenly speared Roode, then the ref was predictably bumped. Ray hit the Bubba Bomb on Hardy, but the ref was KO'ed. Ray scored the visual three count, but ref Hebner was still out. Ray argued with Sting, then turned around to take a Twist of Fate from Hardy, and Hardy scored a visual three count of his own.
 
Storm hit a superkick on Roode, but Ray yanked the now-awake ref out of the ring. Ray and Sting argued with the ref in the middle, then Storm came flying over the top rope with a splash that hit the ref. Back in the ring, Hardy dropped Roode and wanted a Swanton Bomb, but Roode moved and Hardy was left alone in the ring. On the outside, Roode grabbed his title belt and tried to use it back in the ring, but Sting yanked the title belt away from Roode. Roode screamed at Sting, asking him what he's going to do. Sting teased popping him with the title belt, but Sting couldn't pull the trigger. Roode then spit in Sting's face, so Sting tried to smash Roode, but Roode ducked and he smashed Hardy with the title belt. Roode laughed as Sting called him sick. Roode then made a cover on Hardy and Sting reluctantly dropped down to his knees to count. One...Jeff! Jeff!...two...Jeff! Jeff!...three. Roode retains the title.
 
Post-match: Roode laughed in Sting's face before telling Sting to hand him the title belt. Sting was forced to raise Roode's arm in victory, then Sting dropped down to his knees to check on Hardy as Roode continued to taunt him. After a replay of the finish, they showed Roode celebrating ringside. "There's nothing you can do about it! Haha!" he shouted. In the ring, the Facepainted Brothers recovered as Sting tried to check on Hardy and apologize to him. They went to another replay of the finish and the announcers continued to talk before TNA signed off at 9:50.
 
WINNER: Roode at 15:08 to retain the TNA World Title. Another TNA PPV main event and another match that felt more like a TV angle than a match people had to pay to see. The match, which went just as expected with the heel champion using Sting's over-zealousness against him, advanced the Roode-Sting feud, but people shouldn't be asked to pay for this month after month. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 14 2012, 12:09 pm
TNA Against All Odds PPV Results: 2-12-12 (next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58034.shtml)

1 -- ZEMA ION vs. JESSE SORENSEN -- #1 contender match to X Division Title

In the ring, Sorensen scored a quick two count before the two men traded pin attempts. Sorensen cleared Ion from the ring, then Ion tried to steal a football from the kid involved in the pre-match bit. Sorensen answered with a baseball slide kick, but missed with a plancha and ate the floor. Ion followed up with a springboard moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen on the floor.

Back in the ring, Ion did the belt-around-the-waist motion as the ref applied a ten count to Sorensen. The ref eventually checked on Sorensen again when Ion didn't respond to the ten count. The ref did the "X" signal before calling for the bell. In the ring, Ion gloated in victory before more medics came to ringside to check on Sorensen. So Cal Val announced Ion as the winner via count-out as they continued to focus on Ion without showing Sorensen KO'ed ringside.

Post-match: They went to a split-screen of Ion gloating and a replay of the match as Sorensen continued to be checked on. As more personnel continued to check on Sorensen, they cut to Tenay and Borash at the announce table to discuss the moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen. Tenay talked to Keith Mitchell and David Sahadi to get another look at the moonsault that KO'ed Sorensen with a knee to the head. They went to camera shots of concerned fans ringside as the announcers continued to fill time.
Bad news:
Jesse Sorensen actually suffered a broken C-1 vertebrae at TNA's Against All Odds pay-per-view. This is the top vertebrae of the spine that connects the spine to the skull. Sorensen had lost feeling in his extremities last night and is still hospitalized but able to move his arms and has feeling in them. Earlier this afternoon, Sorensen was able to feel a tingling sensation in his legs but could not move them yet.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 15 2012, 02:46 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-13-12

Note: Due to DVR failure, I missed my first RAW in over a year. I'll catch the encore later this week so no personal notes from me...

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_58080.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KOFI KINGSTON

The ring was cleared of podiums and the bell sounded immediately upon returning from break. Kofi quickly continued the assault on Jericho as Lawler suggested all debates should be like a WWE debate. Kofi clotheslined Jericho over the top rope to the outside, then Kofi flew through the ropes with a suicide dive. Kofi fired up the crowd as Cole said perhaps it's Kofi's time to reach the upper echelon in WWE. Kofi rolled Jericho back into the ring and went for ten punches in the corner, but Jericho countered #8 with a running powerbomb.

Jericho went on the offensive before applying a submission. Cole and Lawler debated Jericho's promo last week on Raw when he went from plausible claims to absurd, heelish claims about his contributions to wrestling. Kofi missed a dropkick, so Jericho resumed control of the action, setting a methodical pace. Jericho ripped off a series of chops to "Whoos," but ate a turnaround splash from Kofi. Kofi followed with a big dropkick, then a springboard splash attempt, but Jericho cut him off and transitioned to the Walls of Jericho. Kofi fought and fought before reaching the bottom rope for a break. Jericho thought he won, but ref Charles Robinson indicated Kofi reached the ropes. Suddenly, Kofi caught Jericho in the face with Trouble in Paradise. He couldn't capitalize immediately, though, allowing Jericho to get his foot on the bottom rope on a pin attempt.

They reset at 5:00 with Jericho and Kofi getting into a scrap with the referee. Jericho then kind of thumbed Kofi in the eye, Kofi sold like he was shot in the face, and Jericho caught Kofi with the Codebreaker. Jericho made a cover for the win. Post-match: Jericho told the ref to raise his hand and they replayed the finish of the match. On-stage, Jericho smirked while Kofi recovered in the ring.

WINNER: Jericho at 5:20. The beginning of a potentially very good match, but it ended a bit off. Overall, good set-up for Elimination Chamber.

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. BIG SHOW

Show teased the KO Punch early on, but Orton slipped to the outside to avoid Show and recover. They cut to break 1:15 into the match.

Back live at 4:25, Orton had control of the match with Show locked in a sleeperhold. Meanwhile, Bryan continued to stroke his beard, selling contentment watching two Chamber opponents take each other apart. Bryan smiled as Orton took Show down to one knee, then Show broke free and clotheslined Orton before smashing him in the corner. But, Orton suddenly came out of the corner with a dropkick, which drew an approving nod from the champ.

The match moved to the floor, where Show rammed Orton head-first into the announce table. Show then tossed Orton back into the ring before turning his attention to Bryan, who simply pointed toward the ring. Show returned to the ring, but ate a dropkick from Orton. Show found himself slumped over the top rope and Orton got That Look to set up for and deliver his trademark DDT, but from the top rope rather than the second rope. Sick. Orton tried the RKO, but Show kind of slipped out and fell to the mat. It looked like a botch.

They reset with Orton eventually hitting the RKO clean. But, Bryan stormed the ring and smashed Orton with the title belt, causing the match to be thrown out. Cole said Bryan can do whatever he wants because he's World champ, but then he complained about Bryan being a weasel. Bryan KO'ed Show with another belt shot, then his music played and Cole complained about Bryan ruining a great match-up. After a replay of the finish, they showed Bryan confidently leaving the ring as Cole said Bryan is finally going to get what's coming to him in the Chamber on Sunday.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 7:46. Orton's top-rope DDT was another creative, highlight-reel moment before they advanced Bryan's heel persona as World champ. At least Cole's Jekyll & Hyde commentary was a bit more understandable tonight with the idea of him being nice to Bryan when Bryan was nearby, but dogging him when he was away. But, it points out the fatal flaw of Cole being the lead announcer: he's a coward, he can't be trusted, and he has no credibility. Yet, he's in the position to sell the product and PPVs to the buyers.

3 -- R-TRUTH vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

This was presented like a "comedown match" after the Hunter-HBK segment. Ziggler grabbed an early side headlock and "showed off" by doing a headstand while applying the hold. Meanwhile, Lawler told Cole he needs to head to rehab to admit he's a moron. Suddenly, Truth took advantage of Ziggler spending too much time showing off by rolling up Ziggler for a quick pin and the win. Cole said Ziggler will need to cool off on showing off inside the Chamber on Sunday.

WINNER: Truth at 2:28.

4 -- TAMINA vs. BRIE BELLA (w/Nikki Bella)

Brie quickly attacked a distracted Tamina. Tamina eventually fought off Nikki from the outside and nailed a Superfly Splash from the top rope for the pin and the win. Afterward, Tamina locked eyes with Beth to set up their title match on Sunday.

WINNER: Tamina at 1:27. Basic, two-minute set-up for the title match. Fine.

5 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ -- non-title match

Despite being the main event, this match felt like another "comedown match" after the HBK-Hunter segment and Cena-Ryder-Eve developments. The crowd tried to get invested with Punk chants before quieting down as Miz worked over Punk's left shoulder. Miz then tried the Reality Check, but Punk slipped out and smashed Miz with a kick to the head. Punk shook out the pain in his left arm before the two men traded bombs. Punk then fired up a comeback and delivered patented offense before calling for the GTS. Miz slipped out, though, and delivered a lean-back DDT for a two count. Miz followed with a corner attack before climbing up top. Miz missed and Punk answered with a snap powerslam for a two count.

Punk went up top for a Macho Man elbow, but Miz cut him off. Punk then knocked Miz off the top and landed the elbow drop before calling for the end again. Miz slipped out again, though, teased the Skullcrushing Finale, but Punk countered into his Anaconda Vice submission. Miz quickly tapped Punk's shoulder, giving Punk the win. Cole noted that's important because wrestlers can eliminate other wrestlers via submission.

Post-match: Jericho was shown watching Punk on a backstage monitor. Cole said Jericho probably can't wait to get Punk inside the Chamber on Sunday.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 5:01. Not exactly a strong hard sell for the Chamber with WWE and the announcers treating the TV main event featuring the WWE champion as a "sixth quarter-hour/comedown" type match. (Where's Jim Ross when you need him?) Miz didn't provide a strong-enough threat to Punk to make it seem like Punk is in jeopardy on Sunday and Jericho's character is still a bit undefined to pose a legitimate threat in the mind of viewers.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 20 2012, 02:05 pm
Check out the Official WWE Thread at the Neo-Geo Forum for all of this week's results (link under my signature picture).
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 20 2012, 02:06 pm
WWE Elimination Chamber PPV Results: 2-19-12 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_58294.shtml)

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. R-TRUTH -- WWE Title match -- Raw brand Elimination Chamber match

Punk and Kofi went through a bit of a feeling-out process to start the match before Kofi went flying over the top rope and landed on his feet on the Chamber platform. Back to a feeling-out process before they traded rapid-fire pin attempts. The match moved to the Chamber platform, where Kofi back-dropped Punk hip-first onto the platform. Punk came back with a catapult, sending Kofi flying into the exterior of Jericho's Plexiglas pod. The crowd chanted for Punk as Jericho watched intently inside his pod. Back in the ring, Punk worked on Kofi while selling a hip injury.

At 5:00, it was time for entrant #3 - Dolph Ziggler, who looked even more like Billy Gunn tonight. Ziggler went right after Punk before doing standing ab crunches while hanging on the Chamber wall. After "showing off," Ziggler tried a Rockerdropper out of the ab crunch, but Punk moved. Back in the ring, Ziggler ate a top turnbuckle attempting a corner splash. Punk and Kofi then double-teamed Ziggler before Punk and Kofi suddenly collided in mid-air attempting a double springboard on Ziggler.

With all three men on the mat, the #4 entrant (at 9:00 instead of 10:00) was R-Truth, who went after Ziggler before hip-tossing Ziggler over the top rope onto the Chamber platform. Truth followed with a slingshot splash that seemed to inflict damage to both men. Back in the ring, Truth covered Ziggler, but only scored a two count. Cole noted the pace is quickening inside the Chamber. Punk then blasted Truth with a knee and executed a superplex, but Truth kicked out of a pin attempt. Punk went to the top turnbuckle in front of Jericho, who pounded his pod glass to yell at Punk, then Punk came off the top rope with an elbow drop on Truth. It was good for a pin and elimination.

*** Truth eliminated by Punk at 11:42 ***

Rapid-fire exchanges followed before Kofi tried to cover Punk, but the champ kicked out in time. Kofi then Spiderman'ed onto the Chamber wall before jumping onto Ziggler's shoulders to deliver a swinging DDT onto the Chamber platform in one fluid motion. The crowd popped before things calmed down. This led to entry #5 - The Miz - at 13:23. Miz quickly threw Punk into a Chamber pod before trying to choke Kofi inside the Chamber hole openings. Ziggler took another beating, this time from Miz, before Miz shoved Kofi off the top turnbuckle onto the platform. Miz and Punk then teased finishers before Miz executed a DDT for a nearfall. The crowd rallied behind Punk as Jericho paced inside his pod and Ziggler remained KO'ed outside the ring on the platform.

Suddenly, Punk slapped on the Anaconda Vice on Miz center-ring. Miz fought the hold as the countdown clock led to Jericho entering the match as the final entrant at 17:45. Punk released the hold when Jericho entered the ring and they had a confrontation before Jericho took control. They teased finishers, which the crowd was into, then Jericho cut off Punk with a running bulldog, then followed with a Lionsault. Suddenly, Ziggler tried a roll-up on Jericho, but Jericho escaped and nailed the Codebreaker. That ended Ziggler's night after Ziggler bounced around the Chamber for 20 minutes.

*** Ziggler eliminated by Jericho at 19:19 ***

As Ziggler left the Chamber, Jericho cleared Kofi from the Chamber before resuming an exchange with Punk. Punk won the brief battle with a catapult over the top rope onto the platform. They resumed the battle on the platform, with Punk smashing Jericho into pod glass. Jericho then thumbed Punk in the eye and locked himself back inside his Chamber pod. Punk quickly took care of that, but Jericho yanked Punk shoulder-first into the pod door multiple times to floor Punk.

At 22:22, Jericho turned his attention to Kingston, who continued to take a beating until he came back with an STO on the platform. Miz quickly attacked Kingston, though, and blasted away with left hand strikes. Miz walked into a pendulum kick out of the corner, though, and Punk followed up with a corner powerbomb on Miz. Kofi then found himself on top of a Chamber pod and he flew onto Punk and Miz center-ring. Kofi covered Miz, but Miz kicked out in time. Jericho tried to take advantage of the situation with the Walls of Jericho on Kofi, who fought the hold before tapping out.

*** Kingston eliminated at 25:33 ***

Jericho kept the hold locked on a few extra seconds, drawing a reprimand from the referee. Jericho continued the assault on Kofi, even after eliminating him. Jericho then threw Kofi out of the Chamber to finish the assault. Suddenly, Punk kicked Jericho in the head and Jericho went flying out of the Chamber to the outside, knocking over the cameraman. The refs checked on Jericho, who sold unconsciousness. The refs said Jericho can't continue, then asked for a ringside medic to check on Jericho. Audio of their conservation was picked up as they consulted on whether Jericho was conscious after Jericho struck the cameraman and a light fixture. Inside the Chamber, Punk sold concern. They went to a replay from another camera perspective, which showed how the injury angle came about.

Back inside the Chamber, Miz tried to sneak-attack Punk, but Punk delivered a kick to the head. Punk made a cover, but Miz kicked out in time. The announcers debated whether Jericho was officially out of the match as Punk surveyed his surroundings to decide what to do next. They cut to a ringside shot of Jericho still selling the injury. Back inside the Chamber, Punk measured Miz for a springboard move, but Miz countered with the Skullcrushing Finale. He made a cover, but Punk kicked out just in time, popping the crowd.

The action reset with an aggressive Miz punching and kicking and slapping and taunting Punk. Miz told Punk he's nothing before pacing the ring to play to the crowd. Miz tried to follow with a corner attack, but Punk moved and Miz ate the pod. Punk then hoisted up Miz for the GTS and connected. Punk covered and it was good for the win. Punk advances to WrestleMania to defend the WWE Title.

Post-match: Punk celebrated the title victory before they replayed high points. Punk then walked out of the Chamber, stopped to look at Jericho still selling the injury, and walked on past Jericho to continue celebrating.

WINNER: Punk at 32:38 to retain the WWE Title. Very good match. Not an all-time classic Chamber match, but very good. Also, a very good set-up for a Punk-Jericho title match at WrestleMania, with Jericho being able to say he did not lose the Chamber match and deserves a one-on-one shot at Punk's title. (****)

2 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. TAMINA SNUKA -- Divas Title match

Lilian Garcia announced the Divas Title match. Beth Phoenix was out first to defend the title, followed by Tamina (Snuka) for this month's title challenge. Tamina looked happy to be here and Beth met her smile with a smile, ready for some competition. Once the bell sounded, Beth held open the ropes for Tamina to leave if she wanted to, but Tamina said no. Beth dominated from the start, but Tamina came back with a top-rope Superfly Splash. Tamina had the pin, but Phoenix kicked out in time. Tamina continued the attack on the outside, but Phoenix beat Tamina to the punch back in the ring. Phoenix with a Glam Slam and it was over.

WINNER: Phoenix at 7:16 to retain the Divas Title. Solid Divas Title match with two women's wrestlers having a competitive battle. Refreshing.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 20 2012, 02:07 pm
3 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. BIG SHOW vs. GREAT KHALI vs. IC champion CODY RHODES vs. WADE BARRETT vs. SANTINO -- World Hvt. Title match -- Smackdown brand Elimination Chamber match

As the bell sounded, Cole called this a weird match-up based on the participants (unlikely champion, "Cinderella story" Santino, and two giants). Show quickly smacked around Barrett to begin the match. Barrett briefly took control and the crowd became restless with this match-opening exchange. Show regained control and slammed Barrett onto the platform before walking over his chest.

At 5:05, IC champion Cody Rhodes was revealed as the third entrant. Rhodes stood in his pod, not wanting anything to do with Show. Rhodes eventually entered the ring and took a beating from Show. Show then sent Barrett into the Chamber wall before lawn-darting Rhodes into the wall. Barrett tried to run away, but he walked into a chokeslam, which Barrett blocked before landing a chopblock to Show's left knee. Barrett and Rhodes then went high-low on Show with a classic double-team move to continue working on Show. The heels turned on each other and Barrett smashed Cody into the Chamber wall. "Put it on that boy, Wade!" Booker shouted. Barrett continued to work over Rhodes as the crowd waited for something to get excited about.

At 10:15, the fourth entrant was revealed as Santino. Santino raised the roof, entered the ring, and delivered left hand jabs to Barrett. Santino followed with the Sailor's Salute before channeling Ultimate Warrior. Suddenly, Santino came face-to-face with Big Show. Santino tried a right hand, but Show tossed him around the ring. Cody then cut off Show from behind and scored a two count. Lawler offered an unintentionally comedic visual - Show needs eyes in the back of his legs in this match - before the heels double-teamed Show for a big chokeslam on the Chamber platform. Bryan, in his pod, shouted instructions to Barrett and Cody to dismantle Show, but they decided to attack each other again. Rhodes delivered a majestic top-rope moonsault, but Barrett kicked out in time. Rhodes then blasted away at Santino, who tried to re-enter the match.

At 15:35, the fifth entrant was revealed as Great Khali, so Bryan gets the final slot. Khali delivered some trademark offense, clearing the ring of all competitors except for Show. Khali then came face-to-face with Show and ate a spear. Show made a cover and Khali was gone.

*** Khali eliminated by Big Show at 16:31 ***

After Khali's elimination, Show simply stood in the ring staring down Bryan, who rocked back and forth inside his pod. Bryan smiled and mouthed, "Bring it," as Show stared through the glass toward Bryan. Show then got an idea to try to reach over the glass to grab Bryan, who egged him on. "Come on, big boy," Bryan said. Show then slowly ripped off the top of the Chamber pod as Bryan became frightened. Show then kicked through the top of the pod and landed inside the pod. Show popped the crowd by blasting away at Bryan, who had nowhere to go.

The countdown clock eventually expired at 19:40, officially entering Bryan in the match. The door was unlocked, Bryan thumbed Show in the eye, and tried to run away, but Show launched Bryan right through his Chamber pod to make a big, loud visual. Show then stalked Bryan and delivered a chokeslam. Barrett cut off Show before Show could pin Bryan, though, and Barrett blasted away at Show. Suddenly, Santino snuck up behind Barrett and scored a quick two count. On the platform, Cody smashed Show with a Disaster Kick and Show fell over the top rope back inside the ring. Rhodes hit a DDT, then Barrett came off the second rope with an elbow drop to Show. Rhodes made the cover and Show is gone.

*** Show eliminated by Rhodes at 22:37 ***

After the fall, Rhodes started a huge celebration as Show slowly rolled out of the Chamber. Santino then rolled up Rhodes from behind and Rhodes is gone.

*** Rhodes by Santino at 23:05 ***

Rhodes, shocked, stood up and delivered Cross Rhodes to Santino out of frustration. Barrett tried to capitalize a few moments later, but Santino kicked out of a pin attempt. Barrett then dumped Santino to the Chamber platform as the crowd tried to rally behind Santino. Barrett turned his attention toward Bryan, who countered with a submission into a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Bryan followed right up with a LeBell Lock attempt, but Barrett escaped. Bryan came back with rapid-fire kicks, but found himself crotched on the top rope before taking a left-arm lariat from Barrett in a spot that will bring back some ROH memoires.

At 27:00, Barrett took Bryan to a Chamber pod and tried to squeeze his head inside the pod door before slamming the door on Bryan's head. Santino tried to re-enter the action, but Barrett booted him off the top rope to the platform. Barrett continued the assault on Santino before Barrett turned around to take a flying knee to the head from Bryan. Bryan, now recovered and full of energy, continued to assault Barrett before the action moved up-top. Barrett took control and wanted top-rope Wasteland, but Santino broke it up. Santino then wanted a superplex, but Barrett blocked and shoved Santino to the mat. Barrett missed with a top-rope splash, though, and Bryan came off the top with a diving headbutt on Barrett. Santino made the cover on Barrett, and Barrett is gone.

***Barrett by Santino at 30:39 ***

With it down to Bryan and Santino, the crowd rallied behind Santino as Bryan laughed and smiled, thinking he has it easy now. Santino found a burst of energy, but Bryan quickly cut him off with a corner dropkick. Bryan followed with methodical kicks to the back, but Santino continued to stand up to Bryan, including kicking out of a kick to the head. Bryan then airballed a corner splash and Santino rolled up Bryan, but Bryan kicked out in time. Bryan went up top for a dive and missed.

The crowd popped as Santino yanked out the Cobra for a potential final strike. Santino measured Bryan for the Cobra strike and connected. Santino covered, but Bryan kicked out in time. Santino let up and seconds later, Bryan slapped on the LeBell Lock center-ring. Santino fought the hold as the crowd went nuts trying to encourage Santino to escape. Santino gave a final sign of hope, but Bryan re-applied the hold and Santino was forced to tap out, giving Bryan the win.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 34:05 to retain the World Title. This started off very slowly, but turned into a great piece of WWE storytelling using the Bryan-Show feud, Santino underdog status, and the idea that Bryan had no chance to win the match to involve the crowd and finish very strongly. That is, if viewers could get past the idea of Santino competing for the World Title and The Cobra gimmick being involved in the finish of a World Title match. (***3/4)

4 -- U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL (w/Hornswoggle) -- U.S. Title match

The "comedown match" started with Swagger dominating Gabriel. He took a page from Ziggler by "showing off" with push-ups using Gabriel's back as a base. Gabriel had a few flashes of offense, but Swagger easily cut him off, applied the Anklelock, and Gabriel tapped out. Swagger gets a decisive win.

WINNER: Swagger via submission at 3:07.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 20 2012, 02:08 pm
5 -- JOHN CENA vs. KANE -- Ambulance Match

The crowd started the dueling chants of "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks" before Cena took Kane to the outside. They fought up the entrance ramp to the staging area before Cena called for the ambulance. Kane quickly cut off Cena, though, and yanked a stretcher out of the ambulance. Cena cut off Kane, though, and pulled a backboard out of the ambulance to smash Kane with. This was all in the first two minutes of the match. Cena paused to listen to the dueling chants before the "match" returned to the ringside area.

Back in the ring, Kane blasted Cena with right hands to begin wearing down Cena. The crowd resumed another dueling chant as the two men traded bombs in the ring. Cena won the exchange before setting up for and delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena teased the Attitude Adjustment, but Kane blocked and applied his face-squeeze/mandible claw-like maneuver. Cena sold unconsciousness after Kane eventually released the hold. Kane then tossed Cena to the floor.

On the floor, Kane pulled out a wheelchair and placed Cena inside the wheelchair to push him toward the ambulance. Cena tried to fight back half-way down the entrance ramp, then he used his strength (as documented in the earlier video package) to power out of the wheelchair and fight off Kane. They fought toward the ambulance, which Cena used as a weapon to slow down Kane. Cena then grabbed the wheelchair and smashed it into Kane's body as Kane leaned against the ambulance. Cena then placed Kane in the wheelchair and wheeled him clear across the staging area toward a bunch of production tables. Kane easily recovered and started throwing computers toward Cena. There's a mystery Raw GM joke somewhere.

The fight went through the crowd toward the technical area. Kane opted not to use more computers as weapons, instead using his fists to smack around Cena. The crowd cheered on the fight before Cena reversed a whip to send Kane flying over the guardrail to the ringside area. Cena then grabbed a mic and popped Kane in the face before asking Booker if he makes his Fave Five now. Cena then cleared the Spanish announce table, picked up a TV monitor, and popped Kane in the face with the monitor.

Ringside, Cena started re-arranging furniture before popping Kane in the face with ring steps. Cena turned toward a camera and asked no one in particular if it's time to have some fun. Cena then re-arranged more furniture before mocking Kane by asking if he still wants to hate. Another steps-to-the-face blow followed. Cena was done re-arranging furniture, then he stalked Kane for his next move. Cena hoisted up Kane, walked up his re-arranged steps, reached the top step, and wanted an AA through the table, but Kane blocked, grabbed Cena around the throat, and chokeslammed him through the announce table.

The chokeslam spot brought the crowd down before Kane reset by dragging a stretcher down to the ringside area. Kane scooped up Cena and placed him face-down on the stretcher before dragging Cena up the entrance ramp toward the ambulance. At the ambulance, Kane threw Cena inside the ambulance, then he tried to close the doors, but Cena kicked the right door in Kane's face. Cena fought out and made a Super Cena comeback, including smashing Kane into the side of the vehicle. Cena smashed Kane into the driver's side door before climbing to the roof of the vehicle. Cena egged on Kane, who followed him to the roof. They traded right hand bombs before Kane teased a chokeslam off the ambulance. Cena countered, though, and delivered an AA off the roof of the ambulance down to a separate area below. "Somebody better call 911!" Cole shouted. After a pause for Cena to climb down from the ambulance, Cena scooped up Kane, shoved him inside the ambulance, and shut the door. Cena wins.

WINNER: Cena at 21:22. A predictable spectacle match/angle that surely satisfied Cena fans and accomplished the goal of setting the stage for Cena-Rock at WM28. Was it PPV main event-worthy? That's debatable.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 22 2012, 01:36 am
WWE RAW Results: 2-20-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_58345.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results with my comments in italics.

Eve admits to using Zack Ryder and will do the same with John Cena...whoops! Cena was standing behind her and heard everything. Both go to the ring. Cena rips Eve...Eve cries...hilarity ensues.

1 -- SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY

After a brief feeling-out process, Sheamus came off the top with a shoulder tackle for a two count. As WWE flashed a graphic announcing "#hoeski" is trending on Twitter, Lawler said he doesn't think he's ever seen anything like what opened in the opening segment. Cole noted Zack Ryder is watching Raw from home while recovering from last week's attack by Kane. In the ring, Sheamus blasted away at Henry with clubbing forearms, then kicks and stomps in the corner. Sheamus followed with a Brogue Kick attempt, but Henry blocked and delivered a clothesline. Henry then lifted up Sheamus for the World's Strongest Slam, but Sheamus slipped out and nailed the Brogue Kick. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Cole said he hopes D-Bryan was paying attention, as one Brogue Kick will end his title run at WrestleMania. After Henry rolled out of the ring and they replayed the finish, Sheamus was shown standing tall in the ring with the WM28 banner hanging over his shoulder.

WINNER: Sheamus at 3:13. Rule #1 for Smackdown heels: call in sick Monday nights. Obviously, the goal is to strongly build up Sheamus ahead of Mania, but using Henry to accomplish that after all of his hard work re-building his character and weeks of TV build-up is highly questionable.

2 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. R-TRUTH & KOFI KINGSTON -- non-title match

Lawler noted Primo & Epico should have the advantage since they were not in the Chamber match last night. Cole added that Truth and Kofi will be in the #1 contender battle royal featuring the 10 losers in the Raw and Smackdown Chamber matches. After the tag champs took the early advantage, Kofi hot-tagged into the match and delivered signature offense. Rosa then provided a distraction before the action broke down. It was no matter, as Kingston hit Trouble in Paradise on Primo for the pin and the win. Lawler suggested Kofi and Truth should be in-line for a Tag Title shot now.

WINNERS: Kingston & Truth at 2:23. Another finish that made sense, but hurt the loser(s). Kofi & Truth needed to look strong (a) if they're going after the Tag Titles and (b) because they're in a #1 contender match to the WWE Title later in the show, but what does it say about the tag champs that they lost in three minutes to two guys who were selling injuries after the Chamber PPV last night?

Ron Simmons will be inducted into the WWE HOF. Very deserving honor for him. Congrats!

3 -- EZEKIEL JACKSON (w/Teddy Long) vs. DAVID OTUNGA (w/John Laurinaitis)

Zeke shoved down Otunga and went on the attack, but Otunga cut him off as Cole and Lawler argued about Laurinaitis. The crowd was quiet as Jackson made his comeback before he missed with a corner splash. Otunga then lifted up Zeke with one hand for a power finisher. It was good for the win. Post-match, Laurinaitis bragged in Long's face as Long tried to check on Jackson. Cole stood up to congratulate Laurinaitis before Lawler told him to sit down.

WINNER: Otunga at 1:38.

Taker comes out and calls out Triple H. Trips initially says no but when Taker calls him a coward, all bets are off. Both will be in a 'Hell In A Cell' match at WM XXXIII.

4 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. SANTINO -- non-title match

The crowd quickly picked up a "Santino, Santino" chant, like last night. Santino quickly yanked out The Cobra, but Bryan blindsided Santino to knock the Cobra away. Santino then tried a roll-up, but Bryan easily escaped and slapped on the LeBell Lock. "Tap, Tap!" Bryan screamed. Santino tried grabbing the Cobra, but he was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 0:56.

5 -- KELLY KELLY & AKSANA vs. BELLA TWINS

Back live, the Divas were already in the ring for a Divas tag match. As Kelly started things off for the faces, Cole noted he is still trying to figure out the relationship between Aksana and Smackdown GM Teddy Long. Another blink-and-you-missed-it match, as the Bellas pulled Twin Magic on Aksana for a quick win.

WINNERS: Bella Twins at 1:17.

John Cena comes out again, talking smack about The Rock...I mean Dwayne Johnson and how he's not around in the WWE but stays in Hollywood. This rant isn't really different than ones we've heard in the past.

6 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. THE MIZ vs. IC champion CODY RHODES vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. WADE BARRETT vs. BIG SHOW vs. KOFI KINGSTON vs. R-TRUTH vs. GREAT KHALI vs. SANTINO -- #1 contender's Battle Royal -- winner faces WWE champion C.M. Punk at WrestleMania

Punk targeted Jericho on commentary as Cole tried to badger Punk with exaggerated claims. The entire crew ganged up on Show, but then turned toward Khali and eliminated him at 0:55. On the floor, Khali simply sat on his rump staring into the ring in disbelief before they cut to break.

Back live at 4:00, Punk introduced the show and reset the broadcast, interrupting Cole. The camera focused on Kofi and Miz battling to avoid elimination while Vickie screeched ringside. Barrett and Rhodes tried to eliminate Show, but Show fought them off.

Cole reset the show at the top of the hour. Kofi and Truth then double-dropkicked Miz, eliminating him from the match and ending his WrestleMania headline attempt. Show then double-chokeslammed Kofi and Truth, but Jericho dropped Show with a Codebreaker. Zig-Zag from Ziggler. Cross Rhodes to Ziggler. Winds of Change from Barrett to Rhodes. Barrett then tried to cut Santino, but Santino made a mid-air counter to eliminate Barrett. Truth was then eliminated by Santino. And, Ziggler ended it with a high-impact dropkick to Santino.

Show then press-slammed Ziggler over the top rope onto Barrett and Truth for a big visual. Barrett screamed and cussed like a sailor, selling that he injured his arm, which was taped to sell Chamber injuries. Cole said Ziggler may have been injured, which seemed like the storyline injury, and Lawler said Barrett may have injured his arm. Meanwhile, ref Scott Armstrong ran from ringside to the middle of the hard camera shot to give the "X" signal in the background. Back in the ring, Jericho eliminated Kingston as more refs came to ringside to check on the wrestlers ringside.

Now, a Final Four of Rhodes, Show, Jericho, and Santino. All four wrestlers paused in the ring as more medical personnel came to ringside to check on Barrett and Ziggler. They eventually started up the action with Rhodes, Jericho, and Santino trying to wear down Show. Santino then busted out The Cobra for Jericho and he connected. But, Rhodes clotheslined Santino over the top rope. Rhodes screamed that Santino's 15 minutes are over.

So, it was Rhodes and JeriShow. Punk noted Rhodes is against a former tag champion team. Show then double-suplexed Jericho and Rhodes before Show clotheslined Rhodes over the top rope. So, it was down to JeriShow. Show grabbed Jericho for a clothesline, but Rhodes grabbed Show's leg from the outside. The distraction gave Jericho an opening to try to pull Show over the top rope. Rhodes then snuck back to ringside and helped Jericho pull Rhodes over the top rope, giving Jericho the win. Cole noted Rhodes cost Show a match with major title implications two nights in a row.

WINNER: Jericho at 12:17 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Not exactly an emphatic victory for Jericho to set up Punk-Jericho for the WWE Title at Mania.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 23 2012, 10:03 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 2-21-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_58399.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – THE MIZ vs. SHEAMUS

Match was joined in progress out of break, as the announcers filled in the blanks of Long making this match after the last segment. Sheamus had Miz in a rest-hold, then rag-tagged him (thanks Booker!) in the chest with forearm blows. Cole talked of how Miz’s lack of a Wrestlemania match this year has started to get to him. Diving shoulder tackle by Sheamus for a two-count. Sheamus rammed the ring-post shoulder first, then Miz continued to work him over outside the ring. Single-arm DDT for a one-count back in the ring. Corner clothesline by Miz found the mark. He went to the high-risk district and came down with a double axe-handle. Top wrist-lock held by Miz, but Sheamus fought out. Irish Curse back-breaker for a near-fall by Sheamus. Miz came back with a back-breaker/neck-breaker combo for two. Brogue Kick missed and Miz rolled him up for a near-fall. Sheamus gave Miz Finlay’s Celtic Cross for the win..

WINNER: Sheamus, 5:52 shown. Sheamus is just building up quality wins to lead into Wrestlemania, which is a smart move on WWE’s part.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER

Vickie Guerrero walked on stage to introduce Swagger and Ziggler. Ziggler once again had his t-shirt sticking out the back of his tights. Apparently Kingston has taken to Twitter to complain about Cole mis-identifying him in the Battle Royal last night, because Cole complained about it here. The heels got the early advantage and Ziggler wore Truth down with a rest-hold. Ziggler missed a splash in the corner, allowing Truth to tag Kingston. Kofi got great height on a springboard clothesline, then knocked Swagger off the apron for good measure. High cross-body off the top for a near-fall, with the pin broken up by Swagger. Truth got involved but Swagger low-bridged him. Vickie screamed at Truth outside the ring. Kingston clotheslined Swagger out and Vickie slipped and fell on her bottom as well. Inside the ring, a thumb to the eye by Ziggler (with the ref apparently looking toward Vickie to see if she was okay) led to the Zig Zag for the pinfall.

WINNERS: Swagger and Ziggler, at 2:44. You could tell in the first minute that this was going to be real short.

3 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre got the “already in the ring” treatment, but when being announced, was actually at ringside yelling at the commentators about having to face Khali. McIntyre shoved Khali, then tried to escape. Khali didn’t fool around, giving McIntyre the brain chop and the Khali Bomb in seconds.

WINNER: Khali, at :33. Long was on the verge of firing McIntyre weeks ago. What’s the storyline reason for him holding onto McIntyre now?

4 – MARK HENRY vs. THE BIG SHOW

Mathews talked about Long reinstating Henry and Cole said that it’s just Long caving to political pressure. Body shots to the torso of Henry from Show. He set up for the punch early on, but couldn’t connect. Henry clotheslined Show, knocking him to the mat. Headbutt by Henry to the back of Show’s head. Henry went for a cover and methodically worked over Show. Henry stood on top of Show and did some trash talking. “I’m the shot caller tonight!” he shouted. Show was whipped into the corner, but got his foot up on a charge. Show came back with clotheslines, then a spear. Show signaled for the chokeslam, but as he did so, Cody Rhodes walked out as his theme played. Rhodes said if Show is going to chokeslam someone, it must not be Wrestlemania. Rhodes brought up Show’s loss to Akebono at Wrestlemania 21, saying he made an *** of himself. On the TitanTron, Rhodes cued up a video package of Show’s “embarrassing Wrestlemania moment,” that being his sumo match with Akebono, complete with close-ups of Show’s bottom. After the video, Show walked into a World’s Strongest Slam and a splash. That only got two. Wow. Show then got to his feet and knocked out Henry. But instead of going for the pin, he went after Rhodes. Rhodes ran to the back as Show headed that way as well. They replayed the punch before the match even ended. Then they went to the announcers.

WINNER: Henry, presumably via count-out, at around 5:35 (no bell). Absolutely ridiculous to not acknowledge a finish. They probably wanted to protect both guys by not revealing a winner, but that does so much more damage by ignoring the fact that there was a match and an obvious count-out. It’s especially harmful because this was a match they had hyped since the show began.

5 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Teddy Long accompanied Jackson to the ring, while Laurinaitis brought out Otunga. Laurinaitis even danced like Long. Garcia flubbed the introduction of Laurinaitis, and Cole called her out on it. With both men in the ring, an inset interview aired with Jackson, saying he let down Teddy Long, but Otunga is going down tonight. Otunga went after Jackson, but Jackson showed a lot of fire in his comeback. He clotheslined Otunga in the corner, then splashed him. Sidewalk slam followed that, then the Torture Rack. Otunga got to the ropes however, and Otunga brought Jackson down throat-first over the top rope. Back in the ring, spinebuster by Otunga for the win.

WINNER: Otunga, at 1:20. Long really needs to hitch his wagon to someone else’s star.

6 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. CM PUNK

During Punk’s entrance, they showed the front page of TMZ.com on Cole’s laptop, which has the story of the Punk-Chris Brown feud, and Brown’s recent Twitter post in response to Punk’s video. Chain wrestling to start, with neither man getting the advantage. They went to break with both men getting back to their feet on opposite side of the ring, 1:26 in.

[Commercial Break]

Back at 4:47, with Bryan having Punk locked in a side headlock. Running knee-lift by Punk after breaking free. More back-and-forth, but Bryan cut off Punk’s momentum by dodging a top rope cross-body by Punk. Punk sold an injury to his left arm. Bryan dragged Punk to the middle of the ring and worked over the arm. Bryan kicked Punk in the chest, but Punk got to his feet and peppered Punk with forearms. Overhead suplex by Bryan, then he stomped Punk’s elbow. Counter by Punk and both men were down at 8:43. Punk started his comeback by using his feet, but Bryan got out of a Go To Sleep. LeBell Lock countered, and Bryan held the ropes on a kick attempt from Punk. Bryan asked for his title, but Sheamus ran out, grabbed Bryan, and tossed him back into the ring. Punk kicked Bryan in the head to pin him.

WINNER: Punk, at 9:52.

As Punk celebrated, John Laurinaits came out and said that due to outside interference, this match will continue. If he’s acknowledging the interference, shouldn’t it be a disqualification? The ref rang the bell to re-start the match, Laurinaitis got a chair to sit ringside, and they went to break a little more than 10:00 in.

Back at 13:10 of the restarted match. Bryan kicked Punk in the head as Punk was lying on the mat. They showed Punk mocking Bryan during the break by shouting “yes! yes!” after ramming him into the barricade. Bryan rolled Punk up and held the ropes to pick up the win.

WINNER: Bryan, at 13:49.

Teddy Long came out and said he saw what just happened. Long said he wasn’t going to allow it, as Laurinaitis protested. so they restarted the match again. The men traded standing switches, then Bryan was sent over the top and to ringside. Punk hit Bryan with a suicide dive, hitting his head on the barricade in the process. After recent injuries outside the ring in both TNA and WWE, I’m sure management is holding their breath on every move similar to that. Off the top came Punk for a two-count on Bryan. Bryan went back to working on the arm of Punk. Long and Laurinaitis were seated next to each other at ringside, Laurinaitis in a nice leather chair and Long in a steel chair. Dropkick in the corner for a two-count for Bryan. Bryan set Punk on the top rope. Hurricanrana, but Punk held on and rolled Bryan up for two. Bryan missed a kick and Punk rolled him up for two.

Bryan tried a LeBell Lock, to no avail. Monkey flip by Punk sent Bryan into the corner, then he connected with a kick to the head. Cover got two as Bryan put his foot on the bottom rope. Crowd chanted for Punk. Punk went to the top for an elbowdrop, but Bryan crotched him. Bryan grabbed Punk for a superplex, but Punk pushed him off. Bryan was able to go back to the top because Punk was in such pain, he couldn’t capitalize. Superplex, but as Bryan went for the pin, Punk grabbed a leg too. Both men’s shoulders were down and the ref counted three. He didn’t make an announcement though. Of course, both GM’s thought “their guy” won. Crowd was clear in their decision. Laurinaitis and Long argued, but Laurinaitis went into the ring and raised the arm of Daniel Bryan. Long did the same, raising Punk’s arm. Shouldn’t the ref have a say in this? The GM’s got animated in their discussion, with Laurinaitis throwing down his suit jacket and Long throwing his in Laurinaitis’ face. Long walked off as Bryan restrained an angry Laurinaitis as the show closed.

WINNER: None announced, 19:01.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 27 2012, 08:48 am
WWE NXT Results: 2-22-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_58496.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TYSON KIDD vs. TYLER REKS

Quick schoolboy gets one for Kidd and Regal strongly talks up Kidd from the booth. Kidd controls Reks, but Reks punches out. Reks with strong power offense and then mat control. Interesting to see Reks dominating Kidd with holds. Kidd with a springboard arm drag to escape the wristlock. Reks rolls outside and Hawkins menaces Kidd, so the ref ejects Hawkins. Hawkins objects, so Kidd takes them both down with a dive.

False commercial break and Kidd is getting dumped over Reks's head into a turnbuckle. Reks with knee lifts and he dumps Kidd onto the ropes. Reks with a reverse chicken wing and more knee lifts. Reks looks cocky tonight, but a knee drop is only good for two. Kidd finally uses speed and smarts to gain control, and manages to back body drop Reks from the apron to ringside, then lands a knee from the apron to take Reks down. Reks back in the ring and a springboard missile dropkick from Kidd gets a nearfall.

Reks makes a comeback and lands a fallaway slam for a nearfall of his own. Reks goes to the second rope, but Kidd dropkicks his jaw. Kidd meets him up top looking for a superplex. Reks punches him, so Kidd drops to the apron and lands a big leaping enziguri. Kidd comes up the rope but Reks grabs him in a fireman carry, leaps off the turnbuckle and drops Kidd on the turnbuckle in one fluid motion. Reks rolls Kidd into the ring and covers for two.

Reks gets frustrated and lands a series of leg drops, but on the last one, Kidd grabs the leg and transitions into the Sharpshooter. Reks struggles for a bit and eventually taps like mad. The audience cheers big for Kidd and Regal favorably compares Kidd to Bret Hart.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd via submission in 10:00. Good match! Tyler Reks did a great job keeping up with the technical work of Kidd, and Kidd is sliding into the face role quite nicely. Good match all around with a number of well-done sequences. I would not mind seeing more of this.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. TITUS O'NEIL

O'Neil immediately knocks Riley down and mock cheers for him. More power and mocking from O'Neil, but Riley sends O'Neil to the outside. Regal says that O'Neil's charity work is annoying, and that Riley is taking his mother to the Hall of Fame. Riley with a big clothesline, but O'Neil sends Riley to the outside. Young looks like he wants to get involved, but Percy Watson comes down to cheer on Riley from the outside.

Out of the break, Riley is stuck on the ground. O'Neil continues to dominate Riley, and gets frustrated with the ref for two counts. Riley with a STO to get some space. Regal tells Watson to get more aggressive. Riley with a huge spinebuster for a nearfall. Riley mounts O'Neil in the corner for ten punches, but O'Neil powerbombs on number nine, and covers with feet on the ropes for the pin. Watson complains to the ref, but it's too late.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil in 7:00. This match felt longer than it was. I know that both O'Neil and Riley can deliver in the ring, so I am really not sure why it lacked excitement.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 27 2012, 08:48 am
WWE Superstars Results: 2-23-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_58499.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - ALEX RILEY vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Lock-ups without much advantage for either man at the beginning. Riley gets the crowd involved and takes McGillicutty down. A few vocal males are chanting "Mr. Perfect." Riley with ten punches in the corner and a faceplant for a close two count. Riley with a small suplex for two. McGillicutty drags Riley out of the ring by his feet.

McGillicutty is selling like nuts as he has Riley in a headlock on the mat. Riley forces his way out and tricks McGillicutty into whiffing on a dropkick. Riley jackknifes for two, but McGillicutty is back on the attack. McGillicutty with a blockbuster for two. McGillicutty continues to dominate. Riley with an STO to go on attack, and lands a spinebuster and a float-over DDT for a close nearfall. McGillicutty with a Saito suplex for a nearfall of his own. McGillicutty to the top rope, but Riley shakes the rope to crotch him. Riley meets him up ton for an inside-out superplex for another nearfall. McGillcutty stumbles into the Final Score, but slips out at the last moment. McGillicutty with the Turning Heads neckbreaker (about time it got a name!) for the win.

WINNER: Michael McGillicutty in 10:00. This may well be the best match I've seen McGillicutty in. In the last few weeks, he's turned up the pacing to a level appropriate for his position on the weight chart and it's working wonders for his matches. Using more moves like the Saito suplex to distinguish himself from the rest of the roster is important. He and Riley work well together, too.

2 - MASON RYAN vs. TYLER REKS

Wow, the lower card is doing a lot of double duty this week (Reks and Riley both wrestled on NXT, too).

Reks outwits Ryan, but Ryan uses power to get out of a waistlock. Ryan shoves Reks out of the ring. Reks and Ryan trade offensive barrages, but Ryan maintains momentum. Ryan with a very shaky delayed vertical suplex, which only gets one. Reks uses a chopblock to dominate for a stretch. Ryan with a flapjack and forearms, then a shoulder to the gut and a big boot. Ryan with a powerslam for two. Reks with a reverse STO to put Ryan into the turnbuckle face-first. Reks distracts the ref and Hawkins whacks Ryan from the ringside. Reks with the Burning Hammer for the win.

WINNER: Tyler Reks in 5:00. Reks carried Ryan to a decent-enough match. Reks has a fair amount of upside; he just needs to flesh out his character beyond where it is now (generic, arrogant heel) into something that the audience can sink their teeth into.

3 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. JINDER MAHAL

Gabriel with an early takedown and then another. Mahal can't shake off the tenacious Gabriel. Mahal with a shoulder block into a headlock of his own. Mahal blocks an armdrag, but Gabriel ducks his followup punch and takes Mahal down again and rolls back into the headlock. Mahal twists out, then moves to his knee-based offense. Gabriel jumps off the second rope and lands a huracanrana, but Mahal pops right back. Gabriel kicks Mahal to the ringside and looks for a springboard dive, but Mahal moves, so Gabriel backflips into the ring off the ropes. Very smart looking move. Mahal dodges a baseball slide and is in control headed to break.

Mahal cuts off Gabriel's offense out of the break with a kneelift. The crowd rallies Gabriel, who hits a monkey flip and a backslide for two. Mahal with a neckbreaker for two. The ignorant crowd chants "USA" despite the fact that Gabriel is from South Africa. Mahal with strong offense using his knees and the ropes for leverage. Mahal sends Gabriel into the corner hard. Back elbow from Mahal gets another two count. Gabriel dodges a running knee and hits a jawbreaker to get control.

Gabriel with a big roundhouse kick, then a huge springboard shoulder block for two. Gabriel fires up and wails away on Mahal. Gabriel even manages a front suplex, but he can't get Mahal's shoulders to the mat. Mahal gets knees up on a springboard moonsault and lands a running high knee to Gabriel's upper back. Mahal settles into the Camel Clutch for a speedy tap-out.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 8:00. Very, very serviceable match. Gabriel always impresses with unique high-flying moves and Mahal kept pace while delivering his own brand of offense.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 27 2012, 08:54 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 2-23-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58513.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TNA World Tag Team champions MAGNUS & SAMOA JOE vs. MATT MORGAN & CRIMSON - TNA World Tag Team Championship match

Morgan and Crimson were quick to attack as the bell rang. They disposed Magnus to the outside and double-teamed Joe. Joe regained his bearings and tagged Magnus in to do battle with Crimson. The “undefeated” Crimson hit a wind-up slam on Magnus for a two count. Crimson went for a spear on Magnus in the corner, but Joe made the save leaving Crimson to crash shoulder-first into the ringpost.

The show came back with Crimson fighting Joe and Magnus out of the corner. Crimson hit Joe with a Spinebuster, then both wrestlers tagged in their respective partners. Morgan dominated Joe and Magnus and got a close two count on Magnus that was broken up by Joe. Morgan and Crimson seemed to be in control of the offense until Crimson accidentally hit Morgan with a clothesline. Joe threw Crimson out of the ring, which left Morgan open to receive a double team sequence from Joe and Magnus. This led to Magnus getting the pin after an elbow from the second rope.

WINNERS: Joe & Magnus via pinfall at 9:00 to retain the TNA Tag Team Titles.

2 - X Division champion ALEX SHELLEY vs. ZEMA ION

Ion went after Shelley before the bell with baseball slide. After putting Shelley down, Ion sprayed the hairspray as Austin Aries made his way out to the ring with popcorn and a glass of wine in hand. Shelley blindsided Ion and hit a springboard splash from the outside apron into the ring on Ion for a two count. Ion got the best of Shelley on a few exchanges before locking him in an armbar. Shelley made his way to the ropes and hit a Dragon Screw on Ion.

After an enziguiri, Shelley clotheslined Ion to the outside, and followed it up with suicide elbow through the ropes to the outside. Shelley went to the top rope for the double foot stomp, but missed. Ion pushed Shelley towards the ref, but Shelley put the brakes on it. In a moment of a disarray, Ion caught Shelley in the eyes with the hairspray. With Shelley on his knees, Ion hit him with a pair of running knees for the pin.

WINNER: Ion via pinfall at 4:03.

3--TNA Knockouts champion and Knockout Tag Team champion GAIL KIM vs. ODB (w/Eric Young)

As the match started, the crowd started chanting “ODB,” which Kim took exception to. She began to highlight her assets while putting down ODB’s. ODB knocked Kim down with her chest. ODB got Kim in the corner and hit her with a Bronco Buster for a failed pin attempt. Kim tried to mount some offense, but was caught off by ODB who hit a fallaway slam. Another “ODB” chant broke out as Kim began to take over on offense. Kim hit a flying clothesline for a two count.

Kim threw ODB face-first into the mat from the ropes akin to Randy Orton’s signature DDT. The Knockouts champion got ODB in her “octopus style submission,” which she reversed by slamming Kim into the floor. Kim maintained offense in the corner, putting her boot the neck of ODB. Rayne made her way out, distracting Kim long enough for Young to pour some of the liquid from a flask into ODB’s mouth, giving her Popeye-like strength. ODB hit a Thesz Press from the corner for a two count. Kim went for a kick that was reversed into a "Bam" attempt, only to have that countered into Kim’s Eat Defeat.

WINNER: Kim via pinfall in 6:10.

4 - TNA Television champion ROBBIE E. (w/Robbie T.) vs. A.J. STYLES - TNA Television championship match

Styles was quick to put the offense to Robbie E. as the crowd quickly broke into an “AJ” chant. AJ put Robbie into the Cattle Mutilation submission hold until Robbie E. broke free. Robbie tried to hide to behind Terry, which distracted Styles long enough for Robbie to enough offense in to get a two count. Robbie threw Styles into corner allowing Terry to take a free shot at Styles behind the referee’s back. Robbie hit a knee drop of the middle rope on Styles for a close two count. Styles fought back and hit a sick-looking dropkick on Robbie and then picked him up for a sloppy pumphandle backbreaker. As Styles took to the outside ring apron, Kazarian and Daniels made their way to the ring. Kazarian pulled Styles down and threw him into the ringpost. The referee called for the disqualification.

WINNER: A.J. Styles via DQ at 4:49; Robbie retained the TV Title.

5 - BULLY RAY & KURT ANGLE vs. JAMES STORM & JEFF HARDY (w/Brandon Jacobs)

Storm and Angle started things out for their teams and exchanged blows until Storm hit Angle with a running knee to the face. After another knee to Angle, Ray distracted Storm long enough for Angle to take advantage and put the boots on Storm in the corner. Storm tagged Hardy in as the show went to commercial break.

As the show came back, Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind on Ray for a close two count. Jeff took off running to the ropes, but was stopped by a clothesline from Ray. Ray kept hold of the referee’s attention long enough for Angle to take Hardy down and pull him, groin-first, into the ringpost. Tenay said that he had just gotten word that Styles was livid backstage and was demanding a gauntlet match against Kazarian and Styles for next week’s Impact.

Ray tagged in Angle, who kept Hardy at bay with an over head belly-to-belly suplex. Angle tagged Ray back into the match and attempted to capitalize on Hardy’s weak state, only to be countered with a boot to the face. Hardy tagged Storm in, which led to a series of all the wrestlers subsequently taking each other out. Ray and Angle went for a table under the ring and as they were pulling it out they received a double baseball slide kick from Hardy and Storm. As Ray and Angle set up the table, Storm nailed Angle with Last Call superkick. Bully Ray took Storm down, which led to Jacobs entering the ring.

Ray and Jacobs had a stand-off, which saw both of them getting into a three point stance. Storm punched Ray in the face and Jacobs put Ray through the table, allowing Storm to score the pin.

WINNERS: Storm and Hardy via pinfall at 14:11.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 29 2012, 01:09 pm
Ring of Honor TV Results: 2-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_58598.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRICK ALEXANDER vs. THE YOUNG BUCKS (Matt & Nick Jackson)

Matt hit a punch on Alexander and blew a kiss to the crowd, which allowed Alexander to get the upper hand. Coleman and Alexander tagged in and out to work over Matt. Nick tried to attack Coleman and Alexander from behind, but they took him out. The Young Bucks fired back with tandem kicks in the corner on Alexander. Nick then wiped out Coleman with a dive through the ropes. The Young Bucks hit another flashy tandem move on Alexander, which drew some cheers from the crowd. Kelly previewed the Richards-Lethal main event and said history would be made. McGuinness said that facing ROH World Champion Bryan Danielson when he was the Pure Champion changed his career.

The Young Bucks continued to work over Alexander as McGuinness said the talent was going to pull out all of the stops at “The 10th Anniversary Show.” Alexander made the hot tag and Coleman ran wild on the Young Bucks. Coleman hit an awesome leg lariat on Nick in the corner and he flew right over Nick and landed on Matt. That was sweet. The crowd really got behind Alexander and Coleman as they hit a string of high-flying maneuvers. Coleman got a nearfall on mat with a splash off the top. Alexander hit a superkick on Matt and Coleman speared him right into a DDT, but Nick broke up the pin. The Young Bucks went for the finish, but Coleman cut them off. The Young Bucks quickly took control and hit more bang for your buck on Coleman for the win.

Winners: Matt & Nick Jackson – Very impressive back and forth match. Coleman & Alexander are really beginning to impress me on ROH TV and DVDs. They’re showing more personality and also have the potential to climb the ladder in the tag division given their recent performances.

2 - - ROH World Champion DAVEY RICHARDS vs. ROH TV Champion JAY LETHAL – ROH World Title match

McGuinness said Lethal was going to have to find Richards’s weakness in order to be successful. The announcers hinted that Richards’s relationship with his former partner might be his weakness. The crowd chanted for both men after they came to a stalemate. Lethal countered Richards on the mat and tied him up in a submission. Richards escaped and both men circled each other before engaging in battle again. Lethal escaped a backslide, but Richards managed to back off a kick attempt from Lethal. The crowd chanted for both men as they circled each other again. Lethal hit an arm drag followed by a dropkick out of a cartwheel for a 2 count.

Richards fired back with a dropkick of his own as Kelly discussed the upcoming glut of iPPVs. Richards grabbed a leg submission. Lethal struggled, but managed to get the ropes. Richards continued to target Lethal’s legs. Lethal fired back with a backbreaker and a Russian leg sweep. Lethal then locked in a modified arm bar. Richards slipped out and locked in a stretch muffler. Lethal struggled, but managed to get the ropes. Lethal fired back and nailed Richards with a boot out of the corner. Lethal then hit a leg lariat off the second rope, but was slow to cover and only got a 2 count. Tomasso Ciampa came down to ringside with a chair to take in the action. Lethal hit a suplex and covered Richards for a 2 count.

Lethal was still in control when they show resumed from commercial break. Richards held the ropes down and Lethal flew to the outside. Richards then nailed Lethal with a running kick from the apron to Lethal on the floor. The crowd applauded as Richards got a running start and nailed Lethal with a dive through the ropes. Richards pointed at Ciampa at ringside and he got out of his seat. O’Reilly came out from the back and held Richards back. Lethal fired up with a chance to recover and took down Richards. Lethal hit the back handspring elbow for a 2 count. They showed Lethal missing the lethal injection during the commercial break.

Richards fired back, but Lethal cut him off with the lethal combination for a nearfall. The crowd applauded the nearfall. Strong, Elgin, and Martini made their way to ringside. Lethal and Richards battled on the top turnbuckle. Richards hit a superplex and rolled throw into a falcon arrow into an arm bar as the crowd applauded. Lethal struggled to escape the hold, but eventually got the ropes. The announcers pointed out that House of Truth were on the outside encouraging Lethal to get the ropes. Cole and Edwards came down to ringside. The crowd roared as Richards set up Lethal for some big kicks. Lethal made his way to his feet as Richards continued to kick him. Lethal fired back with an onslaught of blows on Richards. Richards went for the alarm clock. Lethal countered it, but Richards slipped through and locked in an arm bar. Lethal leveraged Richards over and locked in a submission. He then turned it into a pinning combination for a nearfall. Both men exchanged kicks in the center of the ring. Richards then hit a huge clothesline and both men were down. (Radican note: My gosh was that a great sequence)

The crowd went nuts as Richards went up top. Richards yelled at Edwards. Martini got on the apron and O’Reilly dragged him to the floor. The House of Truth jumped O’Reilly. The distraction allowed Lethal to take down Richards. Lethal went up top and hit an elbow drop, but Richards kicked out with the entire building on their feet. Everyone brawled on the outside with Lethal and Richards inside the ring. Lethal set up for the lethal injection, but Elgin shoved Cole into the ropes as Lethal went into his handspring. Richards then hit a roundhouse kick to Lethal’s head for the win.

Radican’s thoughts: (***3/4) – Excellent match with a lot of drama down the stretch. The action on the outside and some missed camera shots made it hard to keep track of everything going on outside the ring. Kelly put over that Lethal was about to win the match if not for Elgin shoving Cole into the ropes. Kelly pointed out that Ciampa had never gotten out of his chair during the brawl on the outside. This was fantastic and I’d love to see a match with less interference between these two.

Richards and Lethal shook hands after the match ended. Ciampa jawed with Lethal from the outside. Kelly said Edwards vs. Strong would take place next week to determine the #1 Contender to the ROH World Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on February 29 2012, 01:15 pm
WWE RAW Results: 2-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_58604.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results with my usual snide comments in italics...

- Opening 20 minutes was Jericho and Punk jawing with each other and honestly enjoyed the comments made more than I should have...

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J., John Laurinaitis, and David Otunga) -- non-title Champion vs. Champion match

The match was joined in progress with Bryan and Punk exchanging blows and strikes in the ring. Cole reset the events going on. They cut away from the ring for a shot of the announce position, where Santino and Teddy Long were also ringside. Laurinaitis and Long began bickering as Bryan worked over Punk in the ring. Punk then made a comeback as the director continued to cut to ringside. Punk then dumped Bryan over the top rope to the floor and Bryan sold a right knee injury. Bryan then called over A.J. as Punk was about to land a suicide dive. Punk slowed down to avoid hitting A.J. with the dive, then Bryan "recovered" and smashed Punk into the ring steps. They cut to another break after 3:15 of action.

Back from break at 6:50, Bryan had Punk in an abdominal stretch mid-ring. They showed clips from during the lengthy break of a near-double pin finish, similar to Smackdown. Again, WWE missed action in the ring with a ringside shot of the announce position. Back in the ring, Punk delivered forearm strikes before attempting a high knee, but he sold pain causing him not to be able to land it flush. Punk shook it off, then went up top for a flying elbow drop to the heart. Punk sold intense pain before looking around the arena for something.

Punk acknowledged a "GTS" chant, then Otunga hopped on the ring apron to distract Punk. Punk fought him off, then Punk and Bryan had a exchange that ended with a mid-ring collision. Suddenly, Santino got on the apron to smash Otunga with the Cobra. Laurinaitis then yanked Santino off the apron, prompting a discussion between Long and Laurinaitis. In the background, Bryan just accepted his title belt from A.J. and started to leave. But, Sheamus ran down to ringside and threw Bryan back into the ring. In the ring, Punk nailed the GTS and made a cover, but Laurinaitis entered the ring and demanded the ref call for the bell.

Post-match: Long stepped into the ring and shoved down Laurinaitis. Otunga and Santino held back the GMs as Punk smirked and slipped out of the ring. They cut to a shot of Punk on the stage telling no one in particular to wait for it. He then held up his title belt to declare he's the best in the world. Suddenly, Jericho jumped Punk from behind on the stage. Jericho lifted up Punk and scoop slammed him on the entrance ramp. Punk sold back pain as Jericho looked down at Punk. So, what's happening in the ring? Jericho then slapped on the Walls of Jericho with a knee on Punk's neck for added pressure. Refs spilled out to demand Jericho release the hold. Jericho eventually released the hold as the crowd chanted in the background. Jericho then grabbed the title belt and hoisted it in the air with a big smirk. Jericho then threw the title belt down on to Punk and told him to enjoy it for now.

WINNER: No Decision announced at 10:15. Way too much happening during and after the match, and yet another match with no decision announced. Sloppy presentation uncharacteristic of WWE.

2 -- KELLY KELLY vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella)

Back from break, the Divas were in the ring. Cole noted Kelly waited all week to tweet about her supposed best friend, Eve, turning her back on Zack Ryder last week. The match then began with Bella in control. After the Bellas attempted Twin Magic, Kelly countered a pin attempt with a rolling pin for the win.

WINNER: Kelly at 1:30.

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. THE MIZ

Cena started hot with trademark offense on Miz as Cole reminded viewers that Rock is live in the building tonight. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment a minute into the match, but Miz countered with the Reality Check for a two count. Miz stomped away, but Cena seemingly no-sold before taking a knee lift to the face. The commentary was good here talking about Miz needing to prove himself Mania worthy with a win and Cena wanting to impress Rock, who is in the building. Cena made a comeback with clotheslines before measuring Miz for a suplex that Miz countered with a snap DDT. Miz with a nearfall.

Miz slowed down the match and measured Cena for a corner attack that he connected with. Miz held his pose for a few seconds before climbing up top. He missed with a weak-looking double axehandle, then Cena made his trademark comeback. Cena set up for and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle before measuring Miz for the AA. Cena hoisted up Miz and delivered it center-ring. Cena opted for the STF center-ring instead of a pin and Miz tapped out within seconds. Cole declared that Cena is ready for Rock in five weeks.

Post-match: Cena stood on the turnbuckles and looked toward the Titantron, where Rock was shown in his locker room bouncing up and down preparing for his return. Rock then shot a look toward the camera and did Cena's You Can't See Me handwave. Rock lifted his hand and they cut back to Cena, who was shown smiling in the ring. Cena left the ring and looked into the crowd before looking toward the WM28 logo. Cena flashed a salute before they cut to break.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 4:03. After a comedown period following the Jericho-Punk-Bryan segments, this was strong with focus on Cena-Rock and Rock's first on-camera appearance of the night. The story of Miz trying to get back to Mania is intriguing, too, for the next few weeks.

4 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. R-TRUTH & KOFI KINGSTON -- three-way WWE Tag Title match

After the bell sounded, Cole actually explained that a wrestler can only tag in his tag partner. Ziggler opted to duck out of the ring, leaving Kofi and Primo to start things off. The match broke down with rapid-fire exchanges before the ring was left empty after everyone was cleared to the outside. Cole sent the show to break.

Back from break, Swagger and Primo were working on Truth in the ring. Ziggler then tagged in and began arguing with Primo over who should pin Truth. Cole added an injury update on Punk - nice follow-up - that Punk's fictional X-rays have come back negative following Jericho's attack earlier in the show. In the ring, the heels made tags, but started fighting, allowing Truth to tag in Kingston. Kingston executed double-team, crowd-pleasing offense before delivering a double Boom Drop to Swagger and Epico. Suddenly, Ziggler dropped Kofi from behind with the Zig-Zag. The action broke down and bodies started flying in and out of the ring. Kofi then popped Swagger with Trouble in Paradise, but Primo dropped Swagger with a backstabber. Epico then threw Kofi out of the ring and covered Swagger to retain the Tag Titles.

Post-match: Suddenly, Kane's pyro shot off and Kane stormed to the ring to find bodies to devour. Primo ate a big boot ringside. In the ring, Ziggler and Epico ate double chokeslams. Truth tried to get some of Kane, but Truth took a chokeslam. Kane, who took one week off after the ambulance match at Elimination Chamber, stood over the fallen bodies before shooting off his pyro in the ring. Kane left the ring as the announcers talked about Kane being scary.

WINNERS: Primo & Epico at 8:36 to retain the Tag Titles. Well, just like WWE management, Kane apparently doesn't like tag wrestling. It will be interesting to see where WWE slots Kane on Mania.

- Eve came out to the ring. One advantage of the DVR...fast-fowarding!!!

5 -- IC champion CODY RHODES & MARK HENRY vs. SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW

The bell sounded and Rhodes quickly tagged Henry before leaving the ring. Show then speared Henry and chased Rhodes out of the ring. Rhodes backed away up the entrance ramp to avoid Show, then Sheamus tagged himself into the match. He smashed Henry with a Brogue Kick and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus & Show at 0:58. Oh, Henry.

- Finally...The Rock is back on TV...and talks for over 20 minutes. Cena talks back...yadda yadda yadda...if you've seen it before, you'll see it again many times before April 1!
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 03 2012, 10:33 am
WWE NXT Results: 2-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_58692.shtml) Condensed here to monstly in-ring results.

1 - ALEX RILEY & PERCY WATSON vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG - Tag Team Match

Quick, hard, back-and-forth between Riley and O'Neil, so O'Neil tags in Young, who walks into an armdrag. Young beats on Riley in the corner a bit, but Riley slips out of the corner and lands a hard clothesline for two. Riley clears O'Neil from the apron and heads to the top, but Young kicks him in the head. Neckbreaker from Young and O'Neil comes in. Riley looks for a tag, but he's isolated in the heel corner. Young gets a two count by dropping Riley onto the ropes. Regal talks up the difficulty of adjusting to tag team wrestling to explain while Riley's on the short end of the stick; excellent way to build up the heels.

Riley comes close to tagging out, but O'Neil takes him back to the corner. Riley manages a sunset flip from O'Neil's shoulders in the heel corner, but Young blind tags in. That was a great move from two big men. Young slows it down with a body scissors and Regal says that O'Neil and Young got tips from Arn Anderson earlier today. He is so good at making the talent look good and adding back story to things.

Riley finally gets some space and Watson tags in just as Young sends Riley out of the ring. Watson to the top rope for an axehandle and rights, dropkick, and a flying shoulder tackle to get momentum. Watson is fired up and lands the Highsman for a nearfall. O'Neil jaws from the apron, so Watson knocks him down, but spends too much time gloating. Young sneaks up behind him and, after a little bit of work, hits his finisher for a clean, middle of the ring win.

WINNERS: O'Neil & Young in 5:30. Nice match that could have (and should have) gone longer. I question the booking of the finish, but that is pure personal opinion based on being in favor of Percy Watson. Watson was the standout here, as usual, but Riley's sunset flip was a real treat to see. I'd like to see Watson face or team up with Kofi Kingston or Evan Bourne.

2 - TYSON KIDD vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Kidd shucks and jives, but they trade waistlocks and then trade takedowns. Kidd acts very cocky and confident for the smaller man, and applies a wristlock. McGillcutty turns it into a wristlock of his own, but Kidd gets to the ropes and wraps McGillicutty's arm up in the ropes. Kidd plays to the crowd, but McGillcutty turns to power to get control, then moves to another wristlock. Kidd with a springboard to escape, and rolls through a wheelbarrow into a cover for two. McGillicutty tosses Kidd onto the ropes crotch-first and the crowd chants, "No more children."

The action moves to the outside and McGillicutty rolls Tyson into the ring for two. McGillcutty turns up the aggression and starts shouting at Kidd. Regal in a very insightful half-shoot comment says that a lot of folks get upset when they "have to come to NXT" and says that this is the wrong attitude to have because NXT is a great showcase for everyone. And, you know what? He could not be more right.

McGillicutty with a big chinlock and looks like he's trying to really torque it. Kidd can't get any traction until he gets boots up in a corner. Double clothesline resets the action. Kidd's speed gives him the control. Dropkick for two. Kidd with a crazy move, he jumps over McGillicutty, rolls across the back, grabs on like a crucifix, but rolls forwards and into a cover for two. Kidd to the top, but McGillicutty punches him and looks for a superplex, but Kidd blocks and knocks him off. Moonsault from Kidd for a nearfall. Kidd wants the Sharpshooter, but McGillicutty grabs the apron to block, and kicks Kidd's knees out. McGillicutty with the Turning Heads neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: McGillicutty in 6:30. Remember last week when I said that McG had his best match? He just topped it. Give these two another five-to-ten minutes and I'll be thrilled. Kidd could have a good match with my filing cabinet, but McGillicutty really stepped up to the plate to knock it out of the park. The best thing McGillicutty's done is lose that baseball cap; it makes him so much more serious.

During this segment of the show, Matt Striker (who pointed out to everyone he's the only person who's been with NXT from the start) announces the William Regal is the NXT General Manager. This might get me to watch the show more now...

3 - KAITLYN vs. MAXINE

Maxine with a quick tackle. Curtis denies being "creepy." Kaitlyn in the corner, but she dodges a charge and goes to work. Bodyslam and leg drop, and Kaitlyn moves to a body scissors. Bateman says Maxine doesn't abuse him; that it's just how she expresses her love. Maxine powers out and gets a trio of two counts. Kaitlyn with a backbreaker and moves to punch Maxine in the head on the mat. Maxine gets boots up in the corner and hits a running sledgehammer for two two counts.

Curtis shushes Mathews as Maxine works an armbar. Curtis with more double entendres. Kaitlyn turns the armbar into a full nelson and hits a sit down slam from the full nelson. Maxine gets flipped over and Kaitlyn uses her feet to pin Maxine for the win. Maxine looks incredulous.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 4:00. Interesting match with some unusual moves.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 03 2012, 10:34 am
WWE Superstars Results: 3-1-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_58724.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - SANTINO MARELLA vs. CURT HAWKINS (w/Tyler Reks)

To begin the match, Hawkins runs out of the ring to avoid a threat from the Cobra, but Marella then throws the sock and his shirt into the ring. I'm sure he has another sock in his singlet. Hawkins runs away from the Marella Martial Arts routine. The crowd calls for the Cobra, so Marella looks to land it, but Hawkins bails to ringside again. Marella with the helicopter takedown and the trumpet. Hawkins tries to surprise him, but Marella counters with an armdrag and mat technique. Quick bridge for two. Hawkins elbows out and draw's the crowd's ire by beating on Marella. A pair of big armdrags puts Hawkins down, but Hawkins comes right back with knees. Marella gets a monkey flip and wants ten punches in the corner, but Hawkins tosses him ringside.

Hawkins into a two-count cover from the break, then a side chinlock. Marella with a takedown to escape, but Hawkins trips him up. Hawkins mocks Marella a bit, then hits a suplex for two. Marella with a hip toss for separation, but Hawkins with the swinging bodyslam for another two count. Hawkins cuts off Marella, but Marella dodges a follow-up charge in the corner. Reks encourages Hawkins, but Marella goes through his usual comeback routine. Reks with a distraction, but Hawkins only can squeeze two from it. Marella counters a suplex setup with a jacknife cover from nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Santino in 8:00. Standard fare of a match. It's interesting how WWE has used the last few months to build Santino up as a humorous "real" wrestler instead of a pure comedy act.

2 - Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX -- non-title match

Phoenix comes out of the gate on fire, and Fox can't keep her head above water. Delayed bodyslam and Phoenix goes to the crowd. Fox hits the ropes, so Phoenix takes her down with a clothesline and beats her silly on the ropes. Ref only gives her two, so Phoenix gets mad. She picks Fox up by the hair twice and slams her to the mat, but she can't get the pin. Rear chinlock and Fox is struggling hard. Fox can't get momentum, but she tries a sunset flip in the corner, to no avail. Fox pulls a Melina under a clothesline and hits a dropkick, then goes to the corner with Phoenix. Phoenix reverses a whip, but takes a butt butt. Phoenix dodges the Ace Kick and nails the Glam Slam for an easy win.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 2:30. Phoenix is so insanely dominant in the ring, the only Divas on the roster who would seem to stand a chance are Natalya and Kharma. Maxine, A.J., or Kaitlyn would make an interesting match based on their use of submissions to potentially offset Phoenix's power.

3 - THE GREAT KHALI vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mahal with early offense, but Khali shoves him into the ropes. Mahal surprises Khali on the ropes and follows up with a DDT for two. Mahal with boots and knees using the ropes, which gets two. Mahal puts boots to Khali in the corner as the crowd rallies Khali. Khali with elbows and a big boot to regain control. Mahal runs into Khali a few times and eats the overhead chop for the loss.

WINNER: Great Khali in 3:00. The less said, the less I'll have to regret my words if I ever meet Khali in person.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 03 2012, 10:43 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-1-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58733.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- DANIELS vs. A.J. STYLES -- gauntlet match

As the bell rang, Daniels and A.J. started the match exchanging chops with A.J. getting the best of the exchange. A.J. hist a backdrop followed by a backbreakers and a knee to the gut of Daniels. The Phenomenal One followed up with a delayed suplex for a two count. Kazarian tried to create a distraction for Daniels as the show went to break.

The show came back with A.J. hitting a dropkick on Daniels. A.J. and Kazarian exchanged some words at ringside which left A.J. open to an attack from Daniels from behind. Back in the ring, Daniels got some offense in on A.J. including a high back drop. A.J. tried to regain the offensive edge as the crowd chanted, “Let's go A.J.” Daniels stopped him mid-comeback with an elbow and got a two count. He had A.J. set for an inverted DDT, but Styled countered with the Pele Kick. After a flurry of offensive on Daniels, Styles hit a springboard forearm from the ring apron. A.J. went for the Styles Clash, but Daniels countered with a back sweep. Kazarian snuck in and hit The Fade to Black resulting in the disqualification of Daniels.

WINNER: A.J. Styles via disqualification at 10:00.

1b -- KAZARIAN vs. A.J. STYLES -- gauntlet match

Kazarian immediately covered A.J. for the win.

WINNER: Kazarian via pinfall at 0:05.

2 -- TNA Knockouts Tag Team champion MADISON RAYNE (w/TNA Knockouts champion/Knockouts Tag Team champion Gail Kim) vs. ODB (w/Eric Young)

The match started with a small “ODB" chant from the crowd. Rayne tried to mount some offense, but quickly realized it wasn’t phasing ODB. ODB took Rayne to the corner and drove her face first into all three turn buckles. She tried to go for the Bronco Buster on Rayne in the corner, but Rayne was able to get her foot up for an awkward looking counter. Rayne’s attempt at gaining the offensive edge was quickly put to an end as she received a hard clothesline from ODB. Young took his shirt off and started running on the apron of the ring distracting the referee. Rayne was expecting Kim to interfere on her behalf, but Kim intentionally stalled, which gave ODB enough time to recover and hit a move for the pin.

WINNER: ODB via pinfall at 3:05.

3 -- ZEMA ION vs. SHANNON MOORE

As the two wrestlers went at it in the ring, Taz and Tenay vilified Ion for his remarks about Sorensen. Moore got Ion to the outside and hit a baseball slide. Moore went for a cross body over the rope to the outside, but Ion moved out of the way. Ion threw Moore back into the ring hit him with a missile dropkick, and then posed to play with his hair.

Moore tried to regain the offense, but Ion stopped him with a neckbreaker. He eventually got enough of an offensive edge to go to the top rope for a moonsault that Ion dodged. Ion hit Moore with a knee to the face from a Death Valley Driver position for the pin.

WINNER: Zema Ion via pinfall in 3:36.

4 -- ANGELINA LOVE & SARITA vs. MICKIE JAMES & VELVET SKY -- tag team match

Sky rushed to the ring to get her hands on Love as James and Sarita battled each other. James threw Sarita to the outside and took her spot in the corner to allow Sky and Love to fight in the ring. Sky tagged in James who hit a huracanrana for a two count. Love was able to make the tag to Sarita, but James remained on the offensive. Sarita was able to get James in the corner to allow Love to attempt to get a cheap shot in, but to no avail as James quickly put a beating on both women on the opposing team. Eventually, with the help of Love, Sarita got James to the outside, which was followed by a diving elbow from Sarita to Mickie, which led to two close two counts.

Sarita tagged Love in to continue the attack on James in the corner. Sarita got back in on the action and put James in peculiar-looking submission hold that she got out of with a boot to the stomach of Sarita. Sarita fumbled long enough for Mickie to get a close two count with a roll up. Both Knockouts got the hot tag to their partners which Sky got the better of on Love. Sarita threw James to the outside and tried to double team Sky with Love with no success. Sky hit Love with a Pedigree for the win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky and Mickie James via pinfall at 5:48.

5 -- TNA World Hvt champion BOBBY ROODE & TNA X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES & BULLY RAY vs. TNA World Hvt. Tag champions MAGNUS & SAMOA JOE & JAMES STORM -- six-man tag team match

Magnus and Aries started off the match for their respective teams. Taz said he dug that fresh faces were in the main event. Magnus and Aries went through some chain wrestling with Aries coming out on top. Aries called for a test of strength and then blew it off with a kick to the side of Magnus. Aries show boated with a cart wheel which prompted Magnus to him with a hard clothesline. Aries tagged Roode in which prompted Storm to ask for the tag to face his former partner. Magnus complied, but once Storm made his way in the ring Roode exited to the outside.

Back from the break, Ray was shown putting the boots to Storm along with some blows to the head. Storm came back with a clothesline and proceeded to wrench the arm of Ray before tagging Joe in. The crowd popped huge for Joe, and then Joe and Ray exchanged strikes. Joe hit Ray with a leg lariat for a one count. Ray quickly tagged in Aries who came running into an overhead belly-to-belly suplex from Joe. Joe tagged Magnus and they hit some double team offense on Aries that prompted him to tag Roode in. Instantly Magnus tagged Storm in to face Roode which caused the heavyweight champion to cower back to tag Aries back in. The rapid fire tags continued as Magnus tagged Joe back in to face Aries. Joe went for the Muscle Buster that was broken up by Roode.

With the referee distracted, Aries hit Joe with a crucifix take down, and then tagged Ray back in. Ray slowed down the pace beating on the back of Ray before tagging Roode back in to take advantage of the weakened Samoan Submission Machine. Roode gloated in Storm’s face which prompted the Cowboy to come into the ring which scared Roode off back into his corner to tag Ray in. After a few hits Ray tagged Aries back in who got Joe into his team’s corner for them to beat on Joe. Eventually Roode and Joe were left in the ring where Roode tried to hit Joe in the corner, but was met with an uranage that allowed Joe to finally tag out to Storm.

Storm finally got his hands on Roode and hit him with some running forearms followed by a back-body-drop. Ray came in for the save, but that was short lived as Aries accidentally nailed him with a dropkick. Storm hit the Closing Time on Roode and then with a superkick for the pin.

WINNERS: Storm & Samoa Joe & Magnus via pinfall at 17:05.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 04 2012, 06:23 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-2-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_58752.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Match was joined in progress, but it didn’t look as if it had been going for long. Ziggler caught Sheamus by surprise with a dropkick, but missed another not long after. Sheamus took advantage and beat on Ziggler in the corner, then clobbered Ziggler with forearms to the chest. Sheamus suplexed Ziggler from the apron into the ring to give him a near-fall at 1:55. Sheamus chased after Ziggler outside the ring, but Ziggler caught him coming in and took over. Neckbreaker by Ziggler, then he followed up with elbowdrops. Sheamus worked out of a chin-lock and back to his feet. Powerslam by Sheamus for two. Ziggler jumped up on Sheamus’s back to stop the onslaught. Sheamus went down to both knees in the middle of the ring. However, he reached his feet and slammed Ziggler back-first into the buckle, then dumped Ziggler to ringside. Ziggler went to the top, but Sheamus caught him for the Irish Curse back-breaker. Vickie hopped into the ring to put Ziggler’s foot on the rope, but they were further away from the rope than planned (I’d guess) and Vickie had to go all the way into the ring, making it unlikely the ref didn’t actually see it (though from the camera angle, they wisely didn’t show the ref and when he looked). Sheamus registered a few near falls. Vickie signaled for Jack Swagger when Sheamus began to signal for the finish. Sheamus Brogue Kicked Swagger off the apron, but Ziggler hit the Fameasser for a near-fall. Ziggler tried to go for the sleeper hold again, but Sheamus turned it into what he now calls the White Noise (Emerald Frosien) for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, 8:22 shown. Another nice victory for Sheamus heading into ‘Mania, where he had to overcome Vickie and Swagger in addition to Ziggler.

2 – HEATH SLATER vs. SANTINO MARELLA

Slater tried to attack Marella as Santino’s back was turned, but he couldn’t connect. Santino hip-tossed Slater, but Slater got his knees up on a splash attempt. Booker and Cole talked about the GM battle with Booker saying Long is trying to keep the ratings up and keep Smackdown the #1 show on cable. Sidekick by Slater for only two. Thought for sure Booker would point out how that was one of his signature moves, but he was too busy prattling on about Long and Laurinaitis. Slater got crotched on the top rope and Marella hit the Cobra. Slater fell down and was pinned.

WINNER: Marella, at 1:55. There are worse guys to give a mini-push to than Santino. At least he entertains the crowd.

3 – NATALYA vs. EVE TORRES

“Hoski” chant right off the bat for Eve. Some brief chain wrestling led to a roll-up from Natalya for two. Single-leg take-down by Eve, but they both kipped up at the same time. Eve rejected a handshake and slapped Nattie. Nattie brawled with Eve as Booker said irritable bowel syndrome runs in the family. “We want Ryder” chant. Eve reversed a roll-up and got the pinfall.

WINNER: Eve, at 1:42. Nice match, and they kept it on the ground, which was fine. Different from most other women’s matches.

4 - THE BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY

Henry clotheslined Show over the top rope and to ringside just :20 into the contest. Headbutt by Henry outside the ring, then he whipped Show into the barricade, and Show took a bump over it and into the area where the timekeeper sits. The count was on as henry was in the ring. Show made it back to the apron at eight. Henry had exposed the turnbuckle and Show was shoved into it by Henry. Show was back on the outside when they went to break at 1:43.

Back at 5:15 with Henry still in control and Cody Rhodes on commentary. Henry rammed Show back-first into the ringpost. Henry grabbed the steel steps and tossed them at Show, but Show was able to move. Big splash in the corner on Show. Henry went for a Vader Bomb and covered for two. Show got his boot up on Henry and speared him. Both men were down at 7:35. He signaled for the chokeslam, but Henry broke out. World’s Strongest Slam but Show kicked out. After arguing with the ref, Henry charged at Show and ran right into the WMD. Show held his ribs, injured from the shot to the turnbuckle before the break, and slowly made the pin. He got the three-count.

WINNER: Show, at 8:49. Not only does Henry job, but Show kicks out of Henry’s finisher. Not a good sign for those who hope for a return to Henry’s dominating ways from a few months ago.

5 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

McIntyre was already in the ring. Gabriel is somewhat of anti-climactic opponent for McIntyre. Big boot by McIntyre for a two-count. McIntyre was close to getting disqualified in the corner, but Gabriel hit a tornado DDT. Gabriel went to the top rope and hit the 450 splash, with the camera catching it from a cool angle. That finished it.

WINNER: Gabirel, at 1:43. I’m guessing McIntyre gets fired, only to be rehired by Laurinaitis next week.

6 – RANDY ORTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN

AJ accompanied Bryan to the ring. Orton was all over Bryan and even took the fight to the outside, where he stomped Bryan’s head atop the steel steps. Orton took Bryan to the top rope and tried to suplex him off, but Bryan headbutted Orton to the mat. He held the back of his head as he tried to get to his feet. Bryan crouched in the corner, smile on his face. Running dropkick in the corner found the mark. Single-arm DDT for a two-count at 2:50. They went to break 3:00 in.

Back at 5:58 of the match. Bryan was stomping Orton in the corner, continuing to work over the left arm of the Viper. Orton showed signs of life, but Bryan cut him off by bringing him down throat-first over the top rope. He then went to the top rope, only to be met with a dropkick on the way down. Orton hit his patented DDT, but his arm was still held tight to his side. He signaled for the RKO, but Bryan treid to counter into the LeBell Lock. Bryan couldn’t hook it in, then hit ringside and apparently tried to leave. Orton got him before he could go far and continued his assault. Orton was about to DDT Bryan with Bryan’s feet on the ropes. Suddenly, Kane’s pyro hit and he came out. The bell rang after Bryan scampered back into the ring.

WINNER: Bryan, via count-out, at 9:21.

Kane attacked Orton and the two brawled at ringside. Kane got into the ring and eyed AJ, but Orton went back after him. They continued to fight at ringside and at the announce table. Kane ran Orton into the ring post, shoulder first. Hey, if there’s anyone who embraces the hate, it’s Orton, so what’s Kane’s beef? Chokeslam by Kane laid Orton out. Kane grabbed a mic and welcomed Orton back. That’s all.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 07 2012, 08:39 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_58822.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results with my personal comments on the non-ring stuff thrown in as an added bonus.

- Show starts out with HBK. Huge pop. Calls out Triple H. Another pop. HBK asks why Trips changed his mind. Basically Trips wants to do what his buddy couldn't. That was about it...oh yeah, HBK will be the referee for the match at WM. Ouch!

1 -- U.S. champion JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero & Dolph Ziggler) vs. SANTINO -- U.S. Title match

Swagger was sporting a new haircut, like an 1800s western movie villain. After the bell sounded, John Laurinaitis and David Otunga came to ringside despite Laurinaitis not running Raw tonight. The heels ran interference and Swagger dropped Santino with the Swagger Bomb, but Santino kicked out. After the kick-out, Teddy Long's music played to bring out Long, Kofi Kingston, and Aksana. The two GMs argued ringside before Raw went to break.

Back live, Swagger was working over Santino while Cole reset the cast of characters ringside. Santino made a comeback, then Laurinaitis hopped on the ring apron to argue with the ref. Long yanked down Laurinaitis, then Laurinaitis and Long got into it. Santino tried a finisher, but Ziggler smacked him from the ring apron. Santino then dropped Ziggler with The Cobra to clear him from the ring apron. Aksana then got into it with Vickie ringside. In the chaos ringside, Long shoved down Laurinaitis. In the ring, Santino countered an anklelock with a quick roll-up and scored a three count for the win. Santino wins the U.S. Title.

Post-match: Laurinaitis grabbed a mic and tried to take over his show, but Long ripped the mic away from Laurinaitis and called for security to take Laurinaitis away. Cue up the local independent guys to come ringside as security to escort Laurinaitis and Otunga out of the building. "I'll get you, Teddy!" Laurinaitis screamed. Long then told Justin Roberts to re-announce Santino as new U.S. champion. Santino choked up and let the tears flow to sell the moment. Santino then led a trumpet celebration to cap off the victory.

WINNER: Santino at 6:40 to capture the U.S. Title. Another chaotic situation building to whatever GM vs. GM match they come up with for WrestleMania.

- The Rock's History Lesson #1 comparing Boston and John Cena. First in a series; collect them all!

2 -- ALICIA FOX vs. EVE

Back in the arena, Alicia Fox was in the ring as Kelly Kelly was ringside to discuss her feud with Eve and her Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards nomination. Eve then came out to boos to face A. Fox. Eve made short work of Fox with a roll-up after 35 seconds.

Post-match: Eve glared toward Kelly before Zack Ryder's music played. Ryder hobbled out on-stage with a cane to support him after being off TV for a few weeks selling injuries from Kane. Ryder told Eve he's glad they never hooked up, saying it's broskis before hoeskis. Ryder did his catchphrase, leaving Eve to try to block out the "hoeski" chants. Cole mocked Ryder, claiming Ryder had a weak comeback after weeks of sitting at home.

WINNER: Eve at 0:38.

- Cena talks alone about his match in WM XXVIII. Nobody remembers second place. Take that New England Patriots!!!

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & SHEAMUS vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J.) & CHRIS JERICHO

Sheamus landed ten forearm strikes to Bryan's chest early in the match. Punk then tagged in to work on Bryan, but Jericho kicked Punk from behind on the ring apron to target Punk's injured back. Jericho then tagged in and played to the crowd before Raw went to break.

Back from break, Jericho was working over Punk in the ring. Cole read off some tweets on who's the Best in the World before Punk broke free from Jericho and hot-tagged Sheamus, who ran over Jericho with power offense. Sheamus landed a bodyslam, ran over Bryan, and dropped Jericho with the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count. Sheamus then went up top, but Bryan distracted him, allowing Jericho to dropkick Sheamus to the floor. On the floor, Bryan smashed Sheamus with a running dropkick.

Back in the ring, Jericho went to work on Sheamus. Cole plugged another history video from Rock after this match. Also of note, WWE flashed a series of promotional items on a lower-third graphic and got the name of Edge's WWE Studios movie wrong, calling it "Breaking the Rules" instead of "Bending the Rules." In the ring, Punk took a hot tag and went after Bryan, who also tagged into the match. Punk sold the back injury, but went up top for a Macho Man elbow drop and connected for a nearfall.

The action broke down moments later with all four men in the ring. Sheamus tried the Celtic Cross on Bryan, but Jericho interfered. Bryan and Sheamus then collided ringside. Back in the ring, Jericho teased the Walls of Jericho on Punk, but Punk countered with a roll-up. Apparently in-between two and three, Jericho managed to switch the momentum and score a three count. Jericho immediately ran out of the ring to grab the WWE Title belt and point to the belt, telling Punk it will be his fate at WrestleMania. Jericho then slid the title belt to Punk, who sold frustration.

WINNERS: Jericho & Bryan at 11:54.

- History Lesson #2 with the Rock talking about Paul Revere. Second in a series; collect them all?

4 -- BIG SHOW vs. THE MIZ

The bell sounded, Miz bailed from the ring, and IC champion Cody Rhodes came out on-stage to embarrass Big Show some more. Rhodes said he doesn't have another clip of Show losing at Mania, but, instead he has Show in his natural habitat at WrestleMania 18 - eating at the WWE Restaurant in New York. Cut up Another Embarrassing Big Show WrestleMania Moment. Back in 2002, Show was positioned at WWE's failed restaurant. Back live, Miz tried to sneak attack Show, but Show cut him off and landed a big spear. Lawler suggested Miz will be waiting tables during WrestleMania this year. Show then KO Punched Miz for a decisive win.

WINNER: Big Show at 2:02.

- History Lesson #3. Let's join The Rock Revolution. Third in a series; collect...nah...let's forget about history already.

5 -- KANE vs. R-TRUTH

Kane landed body shots early on, but Truth tried to fight back before taking a boot to the face. Kane landed more offense, but Truth ducked a clothesline and landed a boot to the gut. Truth went for his scissors kick finisher, but Kane avoided and nailed a chokeslam for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Kane at 1:26. So odd seeing Kane back on Raw after Cena dismantled him at Elimination Chamber, with no mention of those events.

Post-match: Randy Orton's music hit and Orton hit the ring to deliver an RKO to Kane, who was momentarily preoccupied with Truth. Orton then called for a mic and repeated Kane's words to him from Smackdown that it's good to be back. Cue up Orton's music. Cole noted Orton is "back to normal" being cold-blooded and seeking revenge.

- Cena and The Rock face-to-face in the squared circle for the second week in a row. Dwayne...really...don't quit your day job, especially when you're getting well paid for it and most likely getting well paid for your match with Cena. More talk between the both of them. You've heard it before and you'll keep hearing it. Different words, same results.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 08 2012, 08:21 am
Kharma aka Awesome/Amazing Kong aka Kia Stevens' baby did not survive birth. (http://www.diva-dirt.com/2012/03/07/kharma-reveals-that-her-baby-didnt-survive-birth/)

Quote
WWE Diva Kharma has revealed to TMZ that her baby, who we previously reported as being born on December 31st, didn’t survive the birth.
 
The former TNA Knockouts Champion previously told TMZ that she had given birth to a baby boy named Jamie. TMZ now reports that Kharma, real name Kia Stevens, “initially lied to friends about the child being “healthy” because she was incredibly emotional and was afraid to tell the public the truth after announcing her pregnancy on live TV.”
 
Stevens has now revealed that the child didn’t survive birth and she is hoping to start a foundation for people in a similar situation.
 
“I am planning to start a foundation for women that have experienced the same thing. It’s a bigger club than people think.”
 
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Kharma.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 09 2012, 11:16 am
WWE NXT Results: 3-7-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_58900.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TAMINA SNUKA vs. MAXINE

Maxine pushes Snuka to challenge her, but Snuka pushes her down. Maxine runs in and twists around for a crucifix, but when Snuka doesn't go down, Maxine slides down and tries a schoolgirl, which gets one. Very fluid on Maxine's end of things. Maxine sends Snuka to the mat with a hair pull. Maxine eats a big chop after mocking Snuka, but slips out of the ring and jumps Snuka on the way back in. Mazine goes to work on Snuka in the corner, then locks in a tight chinlock. Maxine is looking really strong. Snuka tries to stand up, but Maxine puts her back down. Maxine to the top rope, but Snuka dodges a splash. Snuka with a Samoan Drop and up to the top rope for the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNER: Tamina Snuka in 3:00. I am getting really tired of seeing booking just like this, where someone is doing great in a match, and one simple move knocks out that person long enough for the person losing the match to hit a finisher. This was a repeat from last week in a Justin Gabriel match, and I believe it hurts the loser. Maxine was looking like a #1 contender for two minutes and 50 seconds, and lost literally in ten seconds. That's silly and gets no one over.

2 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis starts off this strong offense, but Tatsu comes out of the corner strong. Curtis to the outside and eats a slingshot splash.

Tatsu in control out of the break. A pair of Japanese armdrags and a dropkick from Tatsu gets two. Curtis yanks Tatsu onto the ropes, then tosses him into the ringpost. Curtis works the left wrist and settles into a nasty keylock. Regal praises Tatsu's skills. Tatsu tries to chop out, but Curtis chops back and nails a big suplex for two. Curtis with more vicious work on the arm. Regal promises not to abuse his power like he has in the past, and Matthews sounds doubtful. Tatsu finally gets a bit of separation.

Tatsu goes on the offensive, but is selling pain. Tatsu just lets loose and hits a high knee in the corner and follows up with a Shining Wizard for two. Tatsu calls for the end and whiffs the roundhouse, and Curtis shoves Tatsu in the corner. Curtis is selling heavy pain and hits a pair of headbutts, and puts Tatsu on the turnbuckle. Big slap and Curtis wants a superplex. Tatsu shoves him down, but Curtis dodges a spinning heel kick and follows him with his brutal dangerous buster for the win.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 6:30 Very good match; I really enjoyed it. Curtis has come so far with his ring work.

3 - JEY USO (w/Jimmy Uso) vs. DARREN YOUNG

Lock-up puts Jey in the corner after a struggle, but he uses speed to get out. Jey with some dance-like strikes, including a spinning heel kick for two. Big bodyslam from Jey for two. Young runs over Jey and lands a powerslam. Backbreaker from Young barely gets a count. Side suplex and Young gets a two count. Mathews asks Jimmy about training with Booker T before coming to WWE, which was a good way to give them talking points. Young mouths off to Jimmy, and Regal promises that Jimmy will get a chance for payback. Jimmy actually references redemption points.

Young with a catapult into the ropes and that's good for two. Young slows it down with body scissors, but Jey turns it around for a moment. Regal offers to hook The Usos up with his twin daughters. He references again that his daughters are conjoined. Jey hits a big uppercut from the corner to get back in control. Jey whiffs a stinkface, and Young capitalizes with a schoolboy for the win.

WINNER: Darren Young in 6:00. Basic match, but it didn't look bad. It gave Darren Young and The Usos something to do.

4 -PERCY WATSON vs. TITUS O'NEIL

O'Neil with Kicks and punches to start, but Watson fires right back with a corkscrew elbow. O'Neil kicks Watson in the gut on a corner leap, then methodically wears Watson down. Watson comes out of the corner, but O'Neil cuts him off. Mathews questions Regal's decisions around Reks and Hawkins. Backbreaker from O'Neil for two. Regal praises O'Neil for becoming more "deliberate" in his style. O'Neil fights hard for an abdominal stretch, which is the first time I've seen one that looks painful in a while. O'Neil says, "Come over here and count old man!" to ref Scott Armstrong, but he still can't get more than a two count despite multiple attempts. He asks the ref if he's incompetent.

Watson with a jawbreaker to reset the action, and he lands punches and a dropkick, followed by a big shoulder tackle. Watson with the Highsman to get two. O'Neil dodges a corner splash and tries the Clash of the Titus, but Watson double foot stomps out at the peak of elevation to escape. (He looked like M. Bison there.) Watson immediately responds with the Percycution for the win.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 11 2012, 02:18 am
WWE Superstars Results: 3-8-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_58940.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater lounges in the corner to demand some space, then celebrates after escaping a headlock. Slater's getting some great crowd involvement here. Gabriel with an armbar, but Slater uses a fireman's carry to escape. Gabriel uses a test of strength to draw Slater in for a wristlock. Gabriel turns up the speed a bit, and a powerslam gets two. Gabriel with more wrist and arm control. Slater gets some space, but Gabriel blocks an armdrag and transitions into a monkey flip. Armdrag into an armbar and Gabriel retails control. Slater on top for a moment, but Gabriel chops out of the corner and moves back to the attack. Crucifix-like roll-up for two, then a jackknife for two and more armbars. They trade suplex attempts and Slater eventually tosses Gabriel onto the ropes crotch-first.

Slater controls with a side chinlock out of the break, and Gabriel can't get traction. Gabriel with a series of kicks to get a two count. Slater spins Gabriel from a fireman's carry and drops him face-first for a close nearfall. Gabriel counters a sideslam attempt with a tornado neckbreaker of sorts and follows with a springboard moonsault for a nearfall of his own. Striker is digging the action and so am I.

After a rest, Gabriel is on the attack in the corner. Slater dodges a corner elbow and plants Gabriel on the turnbuckle, then rips him off into a viscous neckbreaker. Another very close nearfall. Slater is incredulous. Slater picks Gabriel up for a powerbomb, but Gabriel punches him in the head, rolls down and through, and sends Slater face-first into the turnbuckle. Gabriel with a side kick out of the corner, then he goes up top for the 450 splash, which is good for the win.

WINNER: Gabriel in 10:30. This was, by far, the best match I've ever seen from Heath Slater, and one of Justin Gabriel's best, too. Very good match. There was back-and-forth, unique spots, some high-flying and hard-hitting. Slater's put on a touch of weight, which makes it easier to take him seriously. I know I've ridden Slater hard in the past for his in-ring work, but he really brought it here and proved that he's got what it takes.

2 - TED DiBIASE vs. JINDER MAHAL

According to Matt Striker, Mahal's turban case is "sanitary." DiBiase starts a "USA!" chant. Wonderful.

Mahal with a shoulder tackle, but DiBiase responds with a dropkick and ten punches in the corner and a suplex. Striker mis-quotes "Happy Gilmore," which is surprising. Mahal kicks DiBiase's legs out and with some quick offense for two. Mahal with hard offense, including trademark knee drops, leveraging the ropes. Mahal keeps working on Ted's injured wrist. Mahal holds DiBiase's head and knees it repeatedly. Mahal to the second rope for an axe handle, but DiBiase counters with a dropkick. DiBiase makes a strong comeback. Big spinebuster for two. DiBiase looks for Dream Street, but Mahal reverses. DiBiase with the turnaround clothesline. DiBiase off the second rope, but Mahal counters with a jumping knee lift. Mahal slaps on the Camel Clutch and DiBiase taps after a struggle.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 7:00. Enjoyable match. If this is when DiBiase hurt his ankle, you wouldn't know it. I just don't get the booking of Mahal here. Some weeks he gets squashed, some weeks he gets a clean win mid-ring.

3 - KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

This match has gotten a ton of buzz for a match that didn't make it to Raw. The video has a solid 15 minutes left, so it should be a good match. Pre-match, Ziggler gives announcer Scott Stanford his bright pink shirt off his rear, and Stanford is ecstatic. Vickie makes cougar motions to Stanford too.

Ziggler outwits Kingston a few times, giving him a chance to show off. Kofi shows some sweet mat-based technique early on. Kingston slips out of an early sleeper attempt. Ziggler in control with mat skills of his own. They go back and forth with increasing intensity until Ziggler slows it down and shows off some more. They trade rights but Kingston puts Ziggler in the corner, and connects with a monkey flip sending Ziggler into a full 450 spin. That's good for a two count. That was a beautiful move. Kingston gets crotched in the middle of a springboard move, sending the show to break.

They interrupted a hot match for a "Bending the Rules" ad? The crowd is hotter than I've ever seen for a Superstars match. Ziggler and Kingston trade high-impact moves and two counts. Ziggler with some berserk elbows on the mat and a nasty armbar. Kingston with a pair of rollups for two counts. They trade boots-to-faces and Ziggler gets two for the work. There is a strong "Let's Go Ziggler!" chant. Kingston punches Ziggler when he does his sit-up routine. This angers Ziggler, who goes back to the attack. Kingston dodges the corner elbow (does Ziggler ever actually hit that?) and they are both down on the mat.

Kingston gets up first and takes Ziggler down, but Ziggler dodges the Superman Punch and gets out of the SOS. Brief flurry of offense and Kingston gets a very close nearfall with the SOS. Kingston preps the Boom Drop and sticks Ziggler. Kingston calls for the Trouble in Paradise, but Ziggler grabs him in mid-air and counters with the inside-out powerslam for a nearfall. Vickie is losing her mind with worry.

The ref starts a double count, but Ziggler walks into a pendulum kick. Kingston to the top, but Ziggler punches him and then meets him up top. Ziggler preps a superplex, but Kingston blocks and punches out. Kingston whiffs a huge top rope cross-body and Ziggler follows up with the "Namedropper" leg drop, another tight nearfall. The crowd is going nuts. Ziggler tries a sleeper, but Kingston slips out and immediately gets the Trouble in Paradise for the win.

Winner: Kofi Kingston in 15:00. If you are a wrestling fan, you need to watch this match. It is likely to be considered a Top 10 WWE match for 2012... and it was buried on Superstars so The Rock could give history lessons. Scott Stanford felt so organic in the booth and Josh Mathews held back his usual snarkiness and cynicism to let Stanford do his job. This was a PPV-quality match for sure, and it reminds me of when gems find their way onto Superstars.

You can find the video to this match on YouTube or go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread Post #12,716 (direct link to post) (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?33173-offical-wwe-thread&p=3331864&viewfull=1#post3331864) to view it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 11 2012, 02:27 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-8-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_58951.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA Knockout Tag Team champions GAIL KIM & MADISON RAYNE vs. ODB & ERIC YOUNG -- Knockouts Tag Team Title match

Young and Kim started the match for their teams, but before anything could happen, ODB tagged herself in. ODB instantly got the Bronco Buster on Kim and then followed it up with a fallaway slam. Kim put the breaks on ODB’s offense and tagged Rayne in. Rayne choked ODB out in the corner as the crowd chanted her name. ODB made a comeback and slammed Rayne’s head into her crotch and followed up with a Thesz Press. Kim interfered on her team’s behalf, which cost ODB the offensive edge. The champions hit some double team offense on ODB for a two count. ODB hit a desperation move on Rayne, which was followed up with a hot tag to both team’s partners. Young got in and put Knockouts on the opposing team on his shoulders and spun around until he was dizzy for a one count on Kim. The champions tried to double team Young, but ODB quickly put a stop to it. Rayne was able to throw ODB into the ringside steps and followed up by hitting Young with a title belt from behind which planted him on top of Kim for the win.

WINNERS: Eric Young and ODB via pinfall to capture the KO Tag Titles at 5:46.

2 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. ZEMA ION -- X Division Title match

Ion went for a boot that was telegraphed by Aries, who took Ion down with a headlock. Aries showboated around the ring, bowing to the audience. Aries once again got the better of Ion with a senton over the ropes followed by an elbow for a two count. The wrestlers went to the outside, where Ion teased the same move that injured Jesse Sorenson, but Aries stopped him and tried a high-risk maneuver of his own that he missed. Ion tried to capitalize on the mistake with a pin attempt for a two count, and then went to the top rope for a missed 450 splash. Aries stopped Ion’s attempt at using his hair spray bottle on him and then proceeded to use it on him. The referee saw this and called for the disqualification. Afterward, Ion gloated about his victory, but Aries got in his face and raised the belt.

WINNER: Zema Ion via disqualification at 3:48.

3 -- TNA World Hvt champion BOBBY ROODE vs. BULLY RAY -- non-title match

The wrestlers stalled a bit until Roode got Ray into a headlock until Ray took Roode down with a few shoulder tackles. Roode slapped Ray across the face and quickly feigned regret as he kicked him in the gut and laid into him with chops, punches, and boots in the corner. Roode hit a flying neckbreaker off the second turnbuckle for a two count. Ray started “Hulking up” and laid some nasty sounding chops onto the chest of Roode. He started making an offensive comeback and got a close two count on Roode. Ray went for a big boot, but Roode dodged it and hit him with spear for another close two count. Roode grabbed Ray’s chain from ringside and charged at him with, but was met with a boot from Ray. Before Ray could capitalize on Roode, Storm chased him out of the ring and nailed a superkick on Roode as the crowed chanted “Cowboy.”

WINNER: The match ended in an apparent No Contest at 6:45.

4 -- TNA Television champion ROBBIE E. & ROBBIE T. vs. CRIMSON & MATT MORGAN -- #1 contenders match for the TNA Tag Team Titles

Robbie E. mouthed off to Crimson in the ring, which backfired, as Crimson hit him with t-bone suplex. Robbie E. tagged in Robbie T., who scoop slammed Crimson and nailed him with a shot to the back before Crimson fought back until Robbie E. hit him with a clip board from behind. Robbie T. tagged in Robbie E. and he hit Crimson with a knee off the second turnbuckle for a two count. As Crimson started to mount some offense, Robbie E. tagged Robbie T., and quickly put a halt to Crimson’s comeback. Crimson got a desperation maneuver in and a hot tag was made by both teams. Morgan came in and cleaned house. Morgan hit the Carbon Footprint on Robbie, and before he could go for the pin attempt, Crimson tagged himself to score the pin for his team.

WINNERS: Crimson & Morgan via pinfall at 4:03 to become number one contenders to the TNA Tag Team Titles.

5 -- GUNNER & KURT ANGLE vs. GARETT BISCHOFF & JEFF HARDY

The match began as Gunner and Angle double-teamed Hardy while the ref held Bischoff back in the corner. Angle and Hardy were left in the ring to fight for their respective teams. Angle and Gunner took some liberties choking Hardy before he made a comeback clotheslining Angle. As he went for the tag Gunner ran in and knocked Garett off the ropes and was tagged in by Angle to continue to put the boots to Hardy. Hardy’s offensive comeback was once against brought to a halt by Gunner.

Angle had Hardy in a sleeper hold as the crowd chanted “Angle sucks,” and “Hardy.” Hardy broke out of the hold and ran towards Angle only to be caught with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Angle tagged in Gunner, who got a close two count on Hardy after a clothesline. Angle was tagged back into the match and proceeded to throw Hardy to the outside where Gunner continued to do damage to Hardy by throwing him into the guard rail before throwing him back into the ring. Hardy tried to crawl through Angle’s legs to tag Garett, but Angle caught him in the anklelock. Angle eventually broke the hold, but the offensive dominance by Angle and Gunner on Hardy continued.

Hardy was able to get a small package on Angle, but the referee was distracted by Garett trying to get into the match. Hardy was finally able to make a substantial offensive comeback as he hit Gunner with the Whisper in the Wind, but Garett was to busy to receive a tag as he was busy with the referee. Hardy eventually was able to get the tag to Garett, who cleaned house and got a close two count on Angle that was broken up by Gunner. Garett his a double clothesline on Angle and Gunner which set up Hardy for a Swanton Bomb on Angle for the pin.

WINNERS: Garett Bischoff & Jeff Hardy via pinfall at 14:20.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 11 2012, 02:31 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_58973.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 – SANTINO MARELLA vs. JACK SWAGGER – STEEL CAGE MATCH FOR THE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP

During Santino’s entrance, they showed him winning the title on Monday night. During Swagger’s entrance, they showed the announcers at ringside, and Michael Cole had a picture of Laurinaitis’ face on a stick that he was waving around in front of his. It’s funny that Cole got on Booker for mispronouncing Laurinaitis as “Lare-an-itis” instead of “Lore-en-ite-is,” when Cole does that all the time. Swagger held the early advantage, and kept on trucking with a short-arm clothesline. Santino dodged a few clotheslines and tried to climb the cage. Top-rope cross-body, but Swagger caught him. He sent Santino face-first into the side of the cage. Santino was able to recover and set up for the Cobra. Dolph Ziggler tried to climb the cage, providing a distraction. Swagger tried a suplex, but Santino Cobra’d him on the way down. Ziggler tried to recover from Santino hitting his hand with the Cobra, and while doing so, was sent to the back by the ref. That left only Vickie Guerrero in Swagger’s corner as they cut to break at 3:58.

Back at 6:48 with Swagger once again in control. Swagger tossed Santino’s Cobra out of the ring. Santino tried a few desperation roll-ups, to no avail. Drop toe-hold by Swagger sent Santino into the corner. Swagger bomb found the mark for a two-count at 7:50. Swagger argued with the ref, then tried to climb the cage. Santino crotched Swagger and got a two-count. Santino then began to climb, getting to the top of the cage. Swagger grabbed his leg and tried to pull him back in. Swagger slapped Marella a few times as Santino sat on the top rope. He fired back with a Tornado DDT. He crawled to make the cover, but instead crawled over Swagger and to the door. Swagger pulled him back in but Santino kicked him off. Santino had most of his body out, but Swagger grabbed the ankle and applied the ankle-lock. Vickie tried to shut the door and argued with the ref. By the time she pried the door out of his hands, Santino had countered the ankle-lock and kicked Swagger into the doorway. Vickie didn’t see it and slammed the door on Swagger’s face. Santino then crawled out for the win.

WINNER: Santino, at 10:20. The cage match and extended time the match got makes the US Title seem a little more relevant.

2 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. HORNSWOGGLE

Bodyslam by McIntyre, but he pulled Horny’s head up at two. Another bodyslam, and again McIntyre pulled horny up at two. Back-breaker for Hornswoggle. The ref checked on Horny, then threw the match out.

WINNER: McIntyre, via ref stoppage, at 1:23. McIntyre didn’t exactly look smart pulling off the pin a few times – after all, he was fighting for his job. But it makes sense for Laurinaitis to basically give McIntyre his job back. Now how will he keep it once Long takes over again next week?

3 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. MARK HENRY

The announcers talked about Henry being inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame this past week. They showed clips of him during his weightlifting days, then Henry accepting the award, all smiles. That really goes against how he’s been booked for the last several months. Takes you out of the moment of him being a killer heel. Jackson cornered Henry and pounded on him, but couldn’t get Henry up for the Rack. Henry, in a blue singlet, slammed Jackson after some trash talk. Jackson moved out of the way of an elbowdrop, then clotheslined Henry in the corner and delivered some body shots. Jackson charged the corner, but Henry charged at him, knocking Zeke down. World’s Strongest Slam for the pinfall.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:41. Beautiful. This is what they need to do if they want to rebuild him – start with some dominant wins over lower competition.

4 – JOHN LAURINAITIS vs. TEDDY LONG – IF LONG WINS, KANE FACES AKSANA TONIGHT

No music for Laurinaitis as he and Otunga walked to the ring. Laurinaitis wore spandex pants. Long wore a black WWE logo t-shirt. When the bell rang, Laurinaitis got the mic and asked if Long was really going to put Aksana in danger. Laurinaitis told Long to be a man and do the right thing. I feel like it wasn’t that long ago that we had a match where Long was forced to job. Laurinaitis told Long to lie down. Long refused. Laurinaitis called out Kane, whose fireworks went off. Long protected Aksana in the ring after Laurinaitis left. As Kane reached the apron, Randy Orton ran out and pulled him off, RKO’ing him. Laurinaitis was quite animated in his disdain for Orton’s actions. Long then rolled Laurinaitis up for the win.

WINNER: Long, at 2:27. Still an hour left on the show, plenty of time for Kane to recover and face Aksana…right?

Laurinaitis was still throwing a fit in the ring as the camera picked up Long and Aksana walked briskly through the backstage area, discussing dinner plans and likely leaving the arena. Back at ringside, Orton’s music played as he stood over Kane.

5 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. PRIMO & EPICO

Epico began the match against Kingston. Monkey flip by Kingston put Epico on his back. Quick tag to Truth and a double hip-toss by the faces. Truth did a lot of dancing before hitting a legdrop. More double-teaming, this time Epico leap-frogged Kofi only to get side-kicked by Truth. Kingston hit the ropes and while the ref was distracted by Truth, Primo pulled the ropes open, sending Kingston to the floor. Booker called it “a little underhanded,” but still complimented the heels for their illegal tactics. Double underhook slam by Epico for two. Booker talked about his tag team days, as part of one of the greatest teams ever. “Ebony and Ivory?” Cole asked, and Booker corrected him, saying, “The Ebody Experience.” False tag to Truth and the heels continued on Kofi. Kofi kicked away from Primo and finally made the tag at 4:25 of the match. Truth landed the corkscrew elbow on Primo, but Epico broke up the pin. Kingston got involved and Epico was backdropped to the floor. Rosa Mendes got on the apron but she couldn’t help her charges. Flip kick by Kofi, then Truth dropped Primo with a version of the Downward Spiral for the win.

WINNERS: Kingston and Truth, at 5:12. Basic tag-team booking and Primo and Epico still looked good by controlling the bulk of the match.

6 – SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW & RANDY ORTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN & CODY RHODES & THE MIZ

Sheamus and Rhodes began the match. Orton tagged in at 29 seconds of the match. He hammered away with rights in the corner on Rhodes. Clothesline by Orton as Cole bragged about how long Rhodes has held the Intercontinental Championship. Rhodes held Orton, allowing the newly-legal Bryan to kick Orton in the chest. Cole has become such a fan of Bryan that he even suggested he’s going vegan. Dropkick by Orton, then a tag to Show. Show headbutted Bryan to the mat. Miz tagged in and Miz stumbled backward when Show feigned a right hand. After a hard slap to the chest by Show, Miz retreated and tagged Rhodes. Rhodes stepped in and tagged Miz back in. Show brought Miz in the hard way as they cut to break at 3:36.

Back to the show at 6:33 of the match. Sheamus and Miz were in the ring, and Sheamus ran over Miz with a few Irish Hammers. Near-fall at 7:28 by Sheamus. Sheamus fought off Rhodes, then put Miz back down. Forearms to the chest of Rhodes, then an elbow to Bryan. Miz dropkicked Sheamus out of the ring, as the three-on-one was just too much. Bryan hit a flying knee to Sheamus off the apron. Bryan wanted the tag and got it. Sheamus fought back to his feet, but wasn’t there for long. Bryan dropped several knees across the chin and throat of Sheamus. Running boot by Miz after he tagged in. Rhodes also got a chance to work over Sheamus. Short DDT by Miz for a two-count. Side Russian leg sweep by Rhodes after he avoided a Celtic Cross. That got him a two-count at 11:33. Irish Curse backbreaker and the match reset at about 12:00. Both men made tags, with Orton showing a lot of energy against Miz. Show took care of Rhodes and chased him up the ramp. Orton gave Miz a rope-assisted DDT. He avoided a kick from Bryan and tried to give him the same DDT. Instead, Bryan brought Orton throat-first across the top rope. Sheamus knocked Bryan over the apron then over the barricade and into the timekeeper’s area. Orton avoided a Skull Crushing Finale and hit the RKO for the win.

WINNERS: Orton, Show, and Sheamus, at 13:33.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 14 2012, 02:01 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-12-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_59046.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results along with my own two bits thrown in on the non-ring sequences.

- Thuganomics version John Cena came out and did some rap including some non-PG stuff. Nice to see thug John but also shows you can't turn back the clock.

1 -- SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Basic feeling-out process as Cole hyped Sheamus vs. World Hvt. champion Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania. Sheamus then knocked Ziggler to the outside and Zigs recovered on the floor as they cut to break at 2:00.

The match was back in the ring following the break. And, again, Sheamus knocked Ziggler over the top rope to the outside. Sheamus tried to follow up, but Vickie provided a distraction for Sheamus to crawl under the ring to the other side and sneak-attack Sheamus. Ziggler then smashed Sheamus into the announce table, nearly prompting Cole to curse to sell it. The camera zoomed in on Sheamus's back, which was cut up from the announce table.

Sheamus beat a ten count back into the ring, where Ziggler went to work with a methodical attack. Cole then relayed information that Daniel Bryan and A.J. are watching the match from a skybox. Josh Mathews was up in the skybox with Bryan and A.J. to discuss recent events. Bryan accused Mathews of judging their relationship. Bryan asked A.J. for comment, and A.J. gave a response that was essentially saying what Bryan wanted to hear.

From the skybox back to the ring, Sheamus made a comeback as Vickie tried to encourage Ziggler. Sheamus then blocked a top-rope attempt from Ziggler, but Ziggler rolled through the Celtic Cross into a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Sheamus then tried the power move again, but sort of awkwardly dropped Ziggler. It was good for a nearfall and the wrestlers talked a bit in the ring to reset. Ziggler then hit a Rocker Dropper, but Sheamus kicked out in time. The crowd came back to life after the botched spot and rallied behind Sheamus, who nailed the Brogue Kick out of nowhere. Sheamus with the pin for the win. Up in the skybox, Bryan wasn't impressed as A.J. stared straight ahead. Afterward, Cole and Lawler recapped high points from the match before noting the three count is how quickly the World Title count change hands at WrestleMania.

WINNER: Sheamus at 11:53. Solid match other than the pre-finish botch. (**)

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO (w/Aksana) vs. MARK HENRY & DAVID OTUNGA -- non-title handicap match

After the bell sounded, Smackdown GM Teddy Long stomped out to the ring as everyone paused to watch Long approached the announce position. Before that, he grabbed Askana to make sure she was okay. Long then began arguing with Laurinaitis as the director cut back and forth between the announce position and the ring. Long gave Laurinaitis a light shove and Laurinaitis over-sold by spilling himself over the announce position. Back in the ring, Henry blocked Santino's Cobra and gave him the World's Strongest Slam for the pin and the win.

Post-match: The ref sold concern over Santino before the heels picked up Santino and slapped him around a bit. Kofi Kingston then stormed the ring and went after Henry, but a World's Strongest Slam took out Kofi. R-Truth then stormed the ring and was beaten down by Henry and Otunga. What happened to babyfaces who know how to make a save? Henry wasn't done with Truth, as he gave him a giant splash mid-ring. Laurinaitis then entered the ring and introduced the newest member of Team Laurinaitis, Mark Henry. Ringside, Long and Aksana sold concern over these developments as the heels stood tall in the ring.

WINNERS: Henry & Otunga at 1:33. What a giant cluster during the match. If Laurinaitis was intentionally acting completely lost and clueless (more so than usual), then he's the greatest actor of all-time. The post-match was effective for finally getting Henry back on track and setting up Long to find some new babyfaces. Kofi and Truth sure looked ineffective, though.

- A couple of backstage things involving Zack Ryder, Eve and Beth Phoenix, another with The Miz trying to get into WM XXVIII.

In-ring: Back from break, Jinder Mahal was on his way to the ring. Mahal placed his headdress into the protective case before the Funkasauras's music played. This brought out Brodus Clay and his dancers for Clay's first TV appearance in nearly two months. After Clay and Co. danced in the ring, they cut to a shot of Mahal indignant over these developments. Mahal then tried to jump Clay from behind and the ref pulled a TNA by calling for the bell.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. JINDER MAHAL

Clay quickly shook off Mahal's attack and delivered a slam followed by a big running splash for the pin and the win. Afterward, Clay danced it up with the Funkettes. The post-match celebration lasted longer than the match. After a video replay, they returned to the ring for more dancing to stretch out the segment.

WINNER: Clay at 0:28.

- Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker face - face in the next segment. Taker vows to continue the streak and if HBK gets in the way win or lose, there will be hell to pay:
"The Streak will continue. And, I will officially end an era. But, if you don't do the right thing, I will officially end you."
Nice!


4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. THE MIZ -- non-title match -- Miz makes Team Laurinaitis if he wins

Early on, Punk and Miz collided and sold the effects leading to a break after 40 seconds.

Back live three minutes later, Miz was in control as the announcers discussed Miz's recent rough patch. Punk then made a comeback with a swinging neckbreaker before landing a corner knee followed by a bulldog. Punk teased the GTS, Miz escaped, and Punk answered with a flying leg to the face. Miz came back with a kneeling and leaning DDT for a two count. Cole said Miz needs to calm down as they showed Miz looking toward the WM28 logo and trying to keep himself under control. Miz then went for a corner move, but Punk countered and slapped on his submission finisher. Miz fought the hold, but had to tap out. Roday made it official as Cole wondered if Miz's Mania dream is gone.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 6:15.

- Jericho come out on the Titantron and says he's dug into Punk's past and found out why he's straight edge; his dad was an alcolohic. Jericho will win, take his belt and take his sobriety and make him drink. Now...it's personal.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Vickie's voice was the only noise heard in the arena early on as Orton and Swagger felt each other out in the "comedown match" position. Orton flung Swagger to the outside, then followed up on the floor with more offense. Orton threw Swagger back into the ring and they cut to break with Orton still in control.

Back live, Swagger was working on Orton as Vickie screamed at Swagger to focus. Orton teased a comeback and the two men began trading right hands. Swagger then clipped Orton at the left knee and Vickie cackled from ringside. Swagger went to work on Orton to set up for the Anklelock, but Orton escaped and kicked Swagger away. Orton hobbled on one leg before dragging Swagger to the top turnbuckle for a superplex clear across the ring. Orton then went to That Place to get the crowd involved for the first time in the match, leading to a powerslam and spike DDT from the second rope. Orton then teased the RKO and he connected center-ring. Orton with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Orton at 8:32. Orton wasn't presented as a big deal here, which is either a product of WWE not planning in advance or WWE losing confidence in Orton as a top star. The finish was fine to give Orton a solid win pre-Mania, but, then again, Swagger lost to Santino twice last week, so a victory over Swagger doesn't mean much.

- The Rock comes out and sings the same song over and over with different words except for the last line 'Cleveland Rocks!' which makes the crowd happy but Rock please...stay away from singing. Two weeks in a row is two times too many.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2012, 05:22 am
WWE NXT Results: 3-14-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_59140.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Matt Striker and William Regal start the show in the ring. This week, Regal is the "official match coordinator." Regal says that the theme of NXT is "tag teams." Regal explains why tag team wrestling is so special. Love it. He introduces "the most dynamic tag team I've seen in years, The Usos." That is high praise coming from Regal. Titus O'Neil and Darren Young then hit the ramp, mocking The Uso's entrance war dance.

1 - THE USOS vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG - Tag Team Match

Jimmy and O'Neil start the match, and Jimmy brings O'Neil to his corner and tags in Jey. Some boots in the corner and Jimmy tags back in. Quick cover for one. O'Neil turns the momentum with a knee lift, but Jimmy no sells two headbutts and responds with one of his own. Jey comes back in. O'Neil is able to tag out, but Young eats an elbow, then a headbutt. Jey whips Young right over the turnbuckle, then knocks O'Neil off the apron, tags in Jimmy, and Jimmy hits Young with a crossbody on the outside.

Out of the break, Jimmy and Young are trading blows with Young getting the upper hand. O'Neil tags in, but Jimmy is able to get Jey into the match and O'Neil in their corner. O'Neil powers up, and brings Young in again. Young settles into the first hold of the match - it may be a WWE record for time without a hold. O'Neil's back in and works Jey over in the corner, then Young comes back in as the crowd chants for The Usos. Young puts Jey on the turnbuckle, but Jey hits a side kick to the throat area to knock Young down. The ref starts a double count and hot tags are made. Jimmy goes wild on O'Neil. Cross-ring stinkface for a nearfall, but Young breaks up the pin. Jey gets involved and clears Young out. Jimmy lands a Samoan Drop on O'Neil, then tags in Jey, who gets the win with the Superfly Splash.

WINNERS: The Usos in 10:00. Decent match at the end. I was impressed that everyone stayed away from the rest hold formula for the match, despite it being relatively long for O'Neil and Young.

2 - ALEX RILEY & PERCY WATSON vs. CURTIS HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Percy Watson and Curt Hawkins start things off. Hawkins hides in the corner to avoid an aggressive Watson. Hawkins runs to his corner and tags in Reks, who looks annoyed. Watson and Reks trade heavy blows and make it a power game. Big dropkick from Watson gets one. Reks sends Watson into the corner, but Reks can't tag out. Riley tries to get involved, but this allows Hawkins to get in some cheap shots. Reks goes wild on Watson with axe handles and the crowd cheers for Watson. Reks clears Riley from the ring, but when Riley reacts, the ref deals with him letting Hawkins get involved.

Hawkins tags in and slows it down with a side chinlock. Reks comes in again, but Watson uses an overhead throw to get a double tag out. Riley runs over Hawkins, then nails a spinebuster to take it up a notch. Riley heads to the turnbuckle, but Reks tries to get involved. Watson takes Reks out, but Hawkins is able to throw Riley to the floor and hit the Heatseeking Elbow for the three count.

WINNER: Hawkins & Reks in 5:30. Very enjoyable match with sound pacing and ring psychology.

3 - DERRICK BATEMAN & KAITLYN vs. JOHNNY CURTIS & MAXINE - Mixed Tag Team Match

Kaitlyn and Mazine to start things off. Kaitlyn takes Maxine's legs out from underneath her twice, then Maxine slaps Bateman. Bateman and Curtis come into the ring to calm down the Divas.

Bateman is dominating Curtis out of the break with power, but Curtis dodges a high knee in the corner, then works Bateman's knee. Kaitlyn encourages Bateman, but Curtis gives her a goofy look and sexual innuendo. He body slams Bateman, then gives more dirty looks to Kaitlyn. Bateman capitalizes with a schoolboy for a two count. Curtis puts him back down for two, then goes back to the leg work. As he does it, he tries to disgust Kaitlyn. Bateman kicks out of the leg hold, and lands the Sweet Meat Sizzler for the win.

WINNERS: Bateman & Kaitlyn in 3:45. This match needed more time to properly develop given that the folks involved are all pretty good wrestlers.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2012, 05:25 am
WWE Superstars Results: 3-15-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_59184.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Pre-match, Hunico cut a promo in Spanish.

Hunico with an arm drag and a kip-up to start, then they go through some back-and-forth chain wrestling. There's some nice work here. Gabriel with a backslide for two and Hunico rolls outside the ring in frustration. They pick up the pace a little and they trade some fancy moves. Gabriel ends up on the turnbuckle and jumps off with a snap huracarana, sending Hunico to the outside. Gabriel tries to dive through the ropes, but Hunico kicks him on the way through.

Hunico with a side chinlock out of the break. Hunico sends Gabriel to the outside and distracts the ref so Camacho can get in a cheap shot. Hunico rolls Gabriel in and puts boots to him. Hunico with a sit-out slam, but the ref sees that Gabriel's shoulders aren't down and won't count. Hunico continues to control.

Gabriel comes back with a jawbreaker and kicks. A dropkick sends Hunico outside the ring. Gabriel with a springboard splash on Hunico and Camacho outside. He rolls Hunico in and lands springboard double knees to the back of Hunico's head for a nearfall. Hunico comes back with a Saito suplex for two. Gabriel slips out of a second suplex and tries a Tornado DDT, but Hunico reverses into a German suplex with a bridge for two. Great sequence. Hunico gets a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker for two. Gabriel counters a carry position with a Tornado DDT. Gabriel wants to go to the top, but Camacho deliberately stands in the way. By the time Gabriel clears Camacho out of the way and gets up top, Hunico has recovered enough to crotch Gabriel. Hunico meets him up top for a suplerplex for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 11:30. This was an excellent match. Great back-and-forth with a mix of technical wrestling, brawling, and high-flying. Catch the match if you get a chance.

2 - KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Kingston and Hawkins start off. Hawkins tries to yank Kingston into the corner, but Kingston gets free and Hawkins bumps Reks from the apron, drawing Reks's ire. This is the second time this week WWE has teased dissension between Reks and Hawkins. Kingston with a drop toehold and Hawkins and Kingston trade holds. Kingston somehow with an axe handle from the mat for one. R-Truth tags in and goes to work. Hawkins is able to get to the corner, but Truth overpowers Reks for a bit and brings Kingston back in to the match. They continue to isolate Reks. Reks gets a boot up in the corner to get Hawkins in. Hawkins with a suplex for two. They isolate Truth for a moment, but Truth sends them both outside and Kingston leaps off Truth to land a big flip dive over the ropes.

Back from break, Reks is stuck in the corner with Truth and Kingston working him over. Reks makes a comeback against Kingston, but walks into a pendulum kick and eats a top-rope crossbody. Hawkins distracts Kingston, allowing Reks dump him out. Hawkins tags in and rolls Kingston in. More isolation work from Reks and Hawkins. Reks puts Kingston in the Tree of Woe and brings Hawkins in. Kingston almost tags out, but Hawkins stops him, then cheap shots Truth. Truth tries to come in, which distracts the ref, so Reks and Hawkins land a high/low on Kingston getting a very close nearfall. Reks comes back in and keeps Kingston away from Truth. Kingston counters a bodyslam with a DDT and they both tag out.

Truth quickly hits the Lie Detector, then a big front suplex, but Reks breaks up the pin. Kingston sends Reks to the outside and, while the ref is distracted, Kingston hits the Trouble in Paradise from the apron. Hawkins then stumbles into the Little Jimmy for the loss.

WINNERS: Kingston & Truth in 10:30. Good match, but too much of it was spent with Kingston at the losing end of a beat down. This feels too much like the old Air Boom formula, but this time with R-Truth being the closer and Kingston being the victim.

3 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY -- non-title match

Phoenix and Kelly show off at each other and Phoenix sends Kelly to the mat to abuse her. Kelly shoves Phoenix into the corner, then lands the cheerleader backspring splash, then the stinkface. Kelly chokes Phoenix in the ropes, and lands a Thesz Press from the top rope. Phoenix recovers for a moment, but Kelly gets a huracarana-like moved to settle into a cover for two. Phoenix hotshots Kelly on the ropes to turn it around.

Phoenix with the power for a number of two counts. Kelly dodges a corner charge and schoolgirls Phoenix for two. Phoenix with a clothesline for two, and another cover for two. Dragon Sleeper on the mat from Phoenix, but Kelly doesn't tap. Kelly punches out and sends Phoenix into the corner with her head scissors move, then lands a bulldog for two. Phoenix sends Kelly into the ropes, then goes for the Glam Slam, but Kelly rolls through and leverages a two count. Phoenix comes out of the cover and puts Kelly down. Phoenix calls for the Glam Slam again, lands it, and the match is over.

WINNER: Phoenix at 5:45. Kelly is simply too limited to make her matches enjoyable to watch. What I don't get is the booking of the Divas Champion (who is also a very good wrestler) to be on Superstars two weeks in a row, while the Eve Torres mess dominates Raw and Natayla is stuck with a farting gimmick on Smackdown. Perhaps things will change with the announcement of Beth in a tag match at WrestleMania.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2012, 05:28 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-15-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_59194.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MADISON RAYNE vs. VELVET SKY

Before she could “let the pigeons loose,” Sky dove through the ropes and tackled Rayne. Taz said that sometimes he didn’t like even saying his catchphrase, funny. Sky slammed Rayne’s head into turnbuckle for a two count. Rayne mounted a come back and did a number on Sky’s head while it rested on the middle rope for her first two count. Rayne threw Sky out of the ring and proceeded to hang Sky on the middle rope to hit a neckbreaker for another two count. Sky went for a roll-up that Rayne reversed into a roll-up of her own, with a handful of tights, for the win.

WINNER: Madison Rayne via pinfall at 3:58.

2 -- CRIMSON (w/Matt Morgan) vs. TNA Tag Team champion SAMOA JOE (w/TNA Tag Team champion Magnus)

As the match started, the crowd started chanting, “Let's go Crimson.” Joe dominated early with some awesome offense in the corners of the ring followed by a knee drop onto the head of Crimson for a two count. Crimson got the offensive edge after Morgan interfered on Crimson’s behalf. Crimson threw some knees into the face of Joe followed by a neckbreaker for a two count.

Joe came back with a boot to the face of Crimson followed by a senton splash for another two count. Joe tried to set up Crimson for a muscle buster, but an altercation between Morgan and Magnus at ringside distracted him long enough from Crimson to regain his bearings and hit Joe with a spear for the pin.

WINNER: Crimson via pinfall at 4:29. I expected Crimson to win this given his “undefeated streak,” but I was okay with that. TNA has gotten this far billing him as undefeated, and it wouldn’t really make sense to have him lose with no hype. A fun, albeit short, match that could have benefitted from a few more minutes. That being said, it was weird seeing Morgan use some heelish tactics during the match.

3 -- MICKIE JAMES vs. TNA Knockouts champion GAIL KIM -- non-title match

Both Knockouts exchanged holds until James caught Kim with a running boot for a two count. Kim instantly went for her belt, but was stopped before she could use it by James. She started systematically attacking James’s right knee.

James tried fighting out, but Kim consistently kept taking advantage her bad knee. Eventually, James was able to get a pin attempt in followed by a neckbreaker. James hit a Thesz Press for a two count on Kim, and then proceeded to hit a baseball slide to send Kim to the outside. As James tried to pull Kim back into the ring, Kim was able to hit James with the Knockout Title behind the referee's back and scored the pin.

WINNER: TNA Knockouts champion Gail Kim via pinfall at 5:16. That was much better than the match between Rayne and Sky earlier in the night. Not to take anything from the homegrown Knockouts, but these put together a much more believable match.

4 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. DANIELS

As soon as Anderson stepped foot into the ring, Daniels was on the attack. It didn’t last long, as Anderson quickly regained the offensive edge, causing Daniels to bow out to ringside. Daniels, with an apparent cut on his face, was met outside by Anderson and thrown back into the ring. Back in the ring Daniels was able to regain his offensive bearings and put the boots to Anderson in one of the corners of the ring, followed by a knee to Anderson's gut for a two count.

Anderson and Daniels exchanged blows, with Anderson getting the best of the exchange with a neckbreaker followed by another two count. Anderson hit a spin kick and a Pittsburgh Plunge on Daniels as Kazarian made his way to the ring. A.J. came out and Kazarian came off, allowing Anderson to hit the Mic Check on Daniels for the win.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson via pin at 5:47. That was an all right match. Anderson looked like he was motivated, and Daniels always makes his opponents look like a million bucks. I thought Daniels was holding something over Kazarian’s head to make him follow orders? The idea of Kazarian suffering from Stockholm Syndrome is silly.

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. GARETT BISCHOFF -- five minute-challenge

Angle quickly started laying into Bischoff as a timer counted down in the corner of the screen. The announcers played up the idea that Bischoff was in survival mode. Angle feigned a pin attempt by pulling Bischoff up by his hair as soon as the referee started to make the count. Angle dominated Bischoff and eventually threw him outside of the ring. At ringside, Angle hit Bischoff with a suplex and threw back into the ring for a two count. Angle gave Bischoff an overhead belly-to-belly suplex and feigned another pin attempt, pulling Bischoff up by his hair.

The Olympic Gold medalist went for an Angle Slam, but it was reversed by Bischoff, who threw him outside the ring. Angle quickly made his way back into the ring and hit another Angle Slam, but by the time he went for a pin attempt the allotted five minutes had passed. An enraged Angle knocked the referee out and put Bischoff into an anklelock until Hardy made the save.

WINNER: Time Expired at 5:00. I wonder if Eric caught word of the criticism floating around about his son not taking a single bump last week before hitting three offensive moves to set up Hardy for the win...Bischoff was Angle’s ragdoll this week, and even though it gave me sick pleasure watching him take bumps, I still want Garett Bischoff off my television.

6 -- GUNNER vs. JAMES STORM

Storm was quick to attack Gunner, but was met with a thumb to the eye. This only angered Storm, who continued to beat on Gunner who made his way outside to avoid further punishment. Storm threw Gunner back into the ring and as he made his way back in Gunner was there to meet him with some offense. Gunner went for a few crossface attempts, but only got a two count. Ray was shown at ringside cheering Gunner on, but Storm came back with a clothesline to buy himself some recovery time. Strom got some offense in with a back body drop, followed by a codebreaker. Storm won the match with a superkick.

WINNER: James Storm via pinfall at 3:52. I guess Gunner is only a menacing wrestler when he’s in the ring with Garett Bischoff...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 18 2012, 05:30 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-16-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_59210.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

- Christian is back and on 'The Peep Show, he had both GMs bickering at each other. Christian wanted them to present their best offer to be on their team in WM but we already knew what the answer was going to be as he joined Team Laurinaitis.

1 - DAVID OTUNGA vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Match was joined in progress out of break. Otunga was still wearing dress pants. As strange as it looks, I like that better than when wrestlers just happen to wear their gear to the ring and then just happen to be put in a match. Long and Laurinaitis were on commentary. Laurinaitis said Christian’s injury this week was an ingrown toenail. Otunga had the advantage and did some posing while sitting on Kingston’s back. Cole spent most of the match antagonizing Long. Kofi kicked Otunga in the chest, but dove into Otunga’s arms, only for Otunga to slam him. He looked a little out-of-control with that move. Otunga’s pants were ripped right down the crack of his butt. Otunga attempted a third corner clothesline, but Kofi fought it off and hit a springboard cross-body for two. He made his comeback, which included a high dropkick. Kofi hit the ropes, but Christian tripped him. The ref didn’t see it but clearly suspected something. Long talked to the ref, who then sent Christian back to the locker room. Laurinaitis and Long argued at ringside, and the ref was involved in the argument as well. Otunga tried to use his belt, but Santino grabbed it. Santino was knocked off the apron by Otunga, who turned around into Trouble in Paradise for the win.

WINNER: Kingston, 5:03 shown. Otunga is still clearly raw, but Kingston is a guy who can help make him look better than he is.

2 - NIKKI BELLA vs. AJ

After AJ made her entrance, Bryan made a separate entrance to cheer on his girlfriend at ringside. She looked less-than-thrilled when he came out. Nikki got down on her knees to fight AJ, making fun of her opponent’s size. AJ responded with a running dropkick to the face. Nikki regrouped to hit a neckbreaker. She then stood on AJ’s hair and pulled on her arms. With Bryan shouting encouragement at ringside, Nikki kept AJ down with a chinlock, hooking the arm with her leg as well. AJ fought out and hit a spinning back kick on Nikki. To the top she went for a diving splash. Nikki switched with Brie, and Bryan alerted the ref. Nikki then ran over to yell at Bryan for ratting her out. Brie grabbed AJ by the hair and pulled her down with Bryan still on the ref’s case. Nikki went for the finish, but AJ rolled her up for the win.

WINNER: AJ, at 2:49. AJ predictably looked good in there, and Nikki actually didn’t look terrible either.

3 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. CODY RHODES

Did I just see two women in the crowd with powder blue long-sleeved shirts that had the old-school WCW logo on it? Khali caught a kick attempt by Rhodes, putting him on his back. Rhodes chopped Khali in the chest, and Khali responded with a chop to the head. In the corner, hard chop to the chest. Rhodes ran the ropes, but Khali hit him in the head. Another corner chop. Rhodes went after the legs and did a single-arm DDT (I think – tough to tell with Khali selling). Rhodes worked the arm of Khali. After Khali shoved him off, Rhodes went after the leg. Khali kicked Rhodes off of him, but Rhodes went to the top. Khali caught him on the way down with a chop to the chest. Clotheslines from Khali, but he missed an overhand chop. Rhodes brought Khali throat-first over the top rope, then dropkicked the leg. Disaster kick to the head finished Khali.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 3:14. Credibility booster for Rhodes heading into Wrestlemania against another giant, Big Show. Almost surprised they didn’t do this match on the go-home show.

- Orton confronts Kane. Kane used his match against Orton in July of last year for motivation. Orton defeated Kane and after the match, shook his hand. Kane said that's a side of him you'll never see again. Yep, here's another WM match set.

4 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. THE BIG SHOW

Show almost ran over referee Rod Zapata in running McIntyre into the corners. McIntyre tried to comeback, but got speared. Chokeslam, followed by the WMD. The referee checked on McIntyre, then called the match.

WINNER: Show, via ref stoppage, at 1:49. So will Long punish McIntyre for the next year now, until his contract runs out?

5 – MARK HENRY vs. YOSHI TATSU

Tatsu was already in the ring. At the sound of the bell, Tatsu attacked with a dropkick. It got Henry off-balance, but that’s all. Chops had no effect, but a headbutt from Henry did. Hard forearm to the chest by Henry in the corner. Running powerslam, then some trash talk from the World’s Strongest Man. Henry waited for Tatsu to get to his feet, then gave him the World’s Strongest Slam for the win.

WINNER: Henry, at 1:38. So disappointed that Henry’s resurgence the past week on Raw and Smackdown (including last week’s show) will probably just lead to him being fed to Cena on Raw.

6 – CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHEAMUS

Cole recalled these two men being the final two men in the Royal Rumble match in January. Sheamus, still showing the bruise on his back from Monday night, gave Jericho a few knees to the mid-section. When he was on the apron, Jericho ran at him, but Sheamus propelled himself over the top and shoulder tackled Jericho. Jericho missed a corner dive and ended up outside the ring. Hard forearms to the chest by Sheamus. He suplexed Jericho back into the ring, but kept Jericho in the air for a spell during the vertical suplex. Jericho dodged a Sheamus attack, leading to the Rumble winner being sent to ringside. He kicked Sheamus to keep him outside the ring. Daniel Bryan and AJ walked to the ring as the show went to break, 3:26 into the match.

Back at 6:52 of the match. Jericho propelled Sheamus throat-first into the bottom rope as Bryan was shown sitting at ringside with AJ standing behind him. That’s a nice subtle visual there, Bryan taking the chair and making AJ stand. Sheamus attempted to get some momentum going, but Jericho stopped it with a knee-lift. Back suplex for only one at 8:34. Jericho slowed the match down with a rest-hold, but Sheamus stood up with Jericho on his back and backed him into the corner. Jericho went for a running bulldog, but Sheamus shoved him into the buckle. Sheamus went on the offensive and landed his Irish Curse back-breaker for two at 10:49. Mathews noted that Sheamus hasn’t seemed to notice Bryan’s presence at ringside. Forward roll by Sheamus for two. Jericho thumbed the eye of Sheamus without the ref seeing. Brogue Kick missed, catching Sheamus on the top rope. Springboard dropkick, then Lionsault for two at 11:56. Sheamus went to the top, but Jericho crotched him. “Y2J” chant from some of the males in the crowd. Sheamus fought off Jericho’s attempts at offense on the top rope and Sheamus took Jericho out with a diving shoulder tackle. Celtic Cross countered into the Walls of Jericho. Sheamus made the ropes at 13:54. Sheamus got back to his feet and went for the Cross, but Jericho got out and was clotheslined over the top and to the floor, in front of the announce table (and Bryan and AJ). Jericho was thrown in Bryan’s direction by Sheamus, but Bryan and AJ moved. Sheamus got on the apron and stared down Bryan, allowing Jericho to dropkick him back outside. Behind the ref’s back, Bryan dropkicked Sheamus as well. He couldn’t quite make it back before the 10-count.

WINNER: Jericho, via count-out, at 15:19.

Sheamus chased Bryan and AJ around ringside, but stopped when the heels reached the top of the stage. Sheamus stared at them from ringside as they replayed the finish of the match. Sheamus snuck back into the ring and gave an unsuspecting Jericho the Brogue Kick. Sheamus intensely stared at Bryan from the ring as the show finished.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 28 2012, 01:49 am
WWE RAW Results: 3-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_59548.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results with my usual commentary thown in for good measure.

- First off...the Cena-Rock special that aired before RAW...good stuff. Nice to see some of the behind-the-scene personal life stuff of both guys.

1 -- RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J.) & KANE

The bell sounded and Bryan shared a good luck kiss with A.J. before locking up with Orton. Production started off with the WrestleMania Hard Camera Shot - a low-level, widescreen angle - to make the setting seem grander leading to Mania. Eventually, the shot returned to the standard Raw TV angle. The participants went back-and-forth, exchanging control, before Bryan blasted Sheamus with a flying knee on the floor. Bryan laughed to himself as Sheamus sold on the outside leading to break.

Back live, Sheamus and Bryan were struggling in the ring before Bryan ripped off a series of kick strikes to the mid-section. Bryan then missed with a flying attack and ate the top turnbuckle. This gave Sheamus an opening to tag in Orton, who ran over Bryan with clotheslines, followed by a powerslam. Orton then wanted his second-rope DDT and connected. Orton was ready to Enter That Place, but Kane yanked Bryan out of the ring, setting off a Kane-Orton brawl on the outside. Kane ate the ringpost before Bryan dropkicked Orton through the ropes to cut off Orton's momentum. Orton sold on the outside before Bryan blasted away with strikes to the mid-section.

Back in the ring, Bryan tagged in Kane to resume control of this extended-length tag match. Kane went for a corner attack, but Orton blocked, only to eat a sidewalk slam from Kane for a two count. Kane tried going up top for a flying clothesline...and he connected. He then wanted the Welder's Mask chokeslam, but Orton countered with a flying dropkick before Kane could grab him. Tags were made to Sheamus and Bryan, who was taken apart by Sheamus. All four men found themselves in the ring, then the faces clotheslined Kane over the top rope to the floor. On the outside, Orton teased an RKO, but Kane shoved him into the turnbuckle.

Back in the ring, A.J. suddenly stepped into the ring to stand in front of Bryan before Sheamus could deliver the Brogue Kick. The distraction allowed Kane to re-enter the picture and chokeslam Bryan behind the ref's back. Bryan then covered Sheamus for the win. "Yes! Yes! Yes!" Bryan declared before pointing to the WM28 sign hanging in the arena. Ringside, A.J. smiled and applauded.

WINNER: Bryan & Kane at 11:34. Solid tag match to open the show. The booking says that Bryan getting the win here means Sheamus gets the win at Mania.

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. DAVID OTUNGA (w/John Laurinaitis and Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

No mock posing before the initial lock-up for this repeat match. Otunga took control, then grabbed the Team Johnny flag to pose and wave. Hornswoggle tried to one-up Otunga, then an agitated Otunga accidentally knocked himself out with Teddy's flag. Santino followed with the Cobra to Otunga for the win.

Post-match: Laurinaitis entered the ring to protest the decision. Long and Hornswoggle did the old high/low routine to trip up Laurinaitis, then Santino was ready to pop Laurinaitis with the Cobra, but The Miz stormed the ring and dropped Santino with the Skullcrushing Finale. Laurinaitis botched the next line, welcoming Miz to Team Teddy...I mean, Team Johnny. Miz celebrated as Cole declared Miz the difference-maker to help Team Johnny win at WrestleMania. After a replay of the finish, Cole recapped Team Johnny's six-man tag team as Miz stood in the ring with a few pieces of the team.

WINNER: Santino at 1:29. It seemed a little anticlimactic for Miz to finally be added to a WrestleMania match with a quick announcement (and botched announcement, at that).

3 -- EVE (w/Divas champion Beth Phoenix) vs. KELLY KELLY

Back from break, Kelly Kelly came to the ring to face Eve ahead of their WrestleMania tag match, also involving Maria Menonous as Kelly's partner. Eve dominated early on, then Kelly scored a surprise win. Beth tried to grab Kelly on the way out of the ring, but Kelly avoided the champ to take momentum into WrestleMania.

WINNER: Kelly at 2:26. Standard, WWE formula Divas match.

In-ring: Justin Roberts gave an interesting formal introduction for Christian, who came out sporting a different haircut a la referee Charles Robinson, and a Team Johnny t-shirt. Christian made his way into the ring before Cult of Personality played to bring out WWE champion C.M. Punk. Before the match started, Chris Jericho appeared on the Titantron to address Punk. Jericho said he's going to beat Punk at WrestleMania and become new WWE champion, then expose Punk as a fraud. He said he's already exposed Jericho's dysfunctional family, and now has found out some new information. Next is Punk's mother. Jericho said Punk's mom is actually a kind, decent woman. But, he did find out some interesting information about Punk's parents getting married after his birthday, making him a bastard. In the ring, Punk sold fighting anger and tears, then Christian blasted him from behind.

The bell didn't sound as Christian continued to beat up Punk before throwing him to the outside. Punk recovered on the floor and smashed Christian head-first into the announce table over and over. Punk then went old-school Bryan Danielson with multiple elbow strikes to the neck. Punk continued to use Christian as a punching bag before flinging Christian onto the ring steps. He followed with his submission finisher and refused to let go, screaming, "This is you, Jericho!" Refs stormed ringside to separate Punk from Christian before Punk stood tall ringside. Punk then jumped the ring steps and splashed Christian, continuing to tear apart Christian. Cult of Personality played and a WWE doctor checked on Christian before they replayed Punk's assault on Christian. Back live, Punk was shown standing tall in the ring, ready for WrestleMania.

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRISTIAN -- non-title match

WINNER: Match Did Not Happen. Nice use of Christian as a surrogate for Jericho to demonstrate that Punk is ready for WrestleMania.

4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. CURT HAWKINS

Clay started with some shaking and jiggling before Hawkins knocked Clay down to one knee. Hawkins then took Clay off his feet and onto his back before running into a headbutt from Clay. Clay followed with a high knee lift, then a t-bone suplex. Next was the big running splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:05. Apparently WWE doesn't have plans to invest in Clay, as they just threw money out the window with Clay being taken off his feet in a match with Curt Hawkins again after Smackdown. He's officially a bit player.

5 -- BIG SHOW vs. WWE tag champion PRIMO (w/Epico and Rosa Mendes)

The announcers made light of Primo in this match-up, then Cole announced Christian is officially out of WrestleMania. He said one more slot is available for Team Johnny now. Show made short work of Primo with a chokeslam to win in under one minute.

Post-match: Rosa tried to scream at Show, then IC champion Cody Rhodes came out on-stage to taunt Big Show some more. Rhodes threw some philosophy toward Show before turning Show's name into a verb. He said students are going to pray they don't "Big Show" on their finals, guys at the bar are going to hope they don't "Big Show" with the ladies, and he hopes he doesn't have to take a Big Show. The announcers chuckled, then Rhodes noted Show will be the biggest fool of all on April 1 at WrestleMania. Cole said he hopes Rhodes knows what he's doing trying to anger Big Show.

WINNER: Show at 0:47.

6 -- MARK HENRY (w/John Laurinaitis) vs. GREAT KHALI (w/Teddy Long)

Khali dominated with clumsy blows early on, taking Henry off his feet. Henry suddenly came back with the World's Strongest Slam in a feat of strength. Henry with the pin for the win.

WINNER: Henry at 0:48.

Post-match: Teddy gave his props to Henry, then Laurinaitis threw Teddy into the ring. Teddy then found himself face-to-face with Henry before Laurinaitis waved out his team to come join the team. They stood ringside, ready to fend off Team Teddy, and some members hit ringside to zero heat. A red on blue brawl broke out as Henry continued to stalk Teddy in the ring. Suddenly, R-Truth came out late and jumped into the pile. Kofi Kingston was out last and he ate a World's Strongest Slam in the ring. Henry then hoisted up Long for a World's Strongest, but Booker hit the ring and saved Teddy. Booker then cleared Henry, leading to the heels retreating up the ramp.

Once the dust settled, Team Teddy members assembled in the ring along with Booker. Teddy asked Booker if he would join Team Teddy, and Booker accepted. Booker celebrated by dropping down and doing a Spin-a-roonie before hugging the other members. Cole said it's Booker and the Oddities. Booker then put on a blue t-shirt to make his membership official.

- Last 20 minutes of the show was Rock and Cena's last verbal confrontation face-to-face before WM XXVIII. Nothing really new that you haven't heard already however I do like the intensity level of Cena. Rock...there's a reason why he's an actor now. To me, he didn't have the same intensity level.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 28 2012, 01:50 am
Was sick most of last week so the Wrestling results weren't updated here. Check out the Neo (link below my sig pic) to get caught up with all of last week's results including the TNA Victory Road PPV report. Thanks.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 29 2012, 09:46 am
TNA Comments on Flair's WWE ROH Induction (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_59611.shtml)

Legacy Talent & Entertainment, along with TNA, issued a press release Tuesday announcing Ric Flair's appearance at the 2012 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony on March 31 after WWE and TNA reached an agreement on Flair's appearance.

“Being inducted once was one of the greatest accomplishments of my career, so I’m humbled and honored to be recognized again. I wouldn’t miss the ceremony for the world,” Flair said in the release.

TNA president Dixie Carter added, "We are proud of Ric’s many accomplishments and contributions he has made to the world of professional wrestling and beyond. We wish to congratulate him on yet another honor he truly deserves.”

WWE did not comment in the press release drafted by Flair's representatives. Financial terms of the agreement, if any, were not disclosed.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 01 2012, 05:08 am
WWE NXT Results: 3-28-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_59659.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - DERRICK BATEMAN (w/Kaitlyn) vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Hunico with early control. Bateman uses his size to get an offensive flurry, then Hunico arm drags Bateman right into the turnbuckle back-first - that may be the bump of the night, but it is only good for a one count. Hunico back on the attack; he even manages a suplex on the much-larger Bateman. Regal talks about how Hunico was stabbed to save Camacho's life, biting a man's eyeball out in the process. Regal must be attending the Scott Stanford school of character enhancement. Double cross-body block sends to a break.

Hunico has Bateman in the corner out of the break, but Bateman tries to fight back. Hunico's shirt is ripped up. Hunico lands a bodyslam and looks for a top-rope move, but Bateman counters with a dropkick, then dumps Hunico face-first onto the turnbuckle. Bateman with a running neckbreaker, which is good for two. Hunico gets frustrated, unable to put Bateman away. Bateman delivers some big punches to Hunico on the apron, and tries to suplex him into the ring, but Hunico counters the suplex with a lateral press with a handful of tights. Bateman lands a suicide dive on Camacho to pre-emptively take him out of the equation, but when he gets back in, Hunico lands a move for the win. It looked kind of like an Angle Slam.

WINNER: Hunico at 7:15. I enjoyed this match, as Hunico and Bateman meshed well. There was one slightly missed spot (the suplex counter to roll-through sequence), but it was a lot of fun. I'd like to see Hunico get more character development on NXT since his in-ring work is fun.

2 - JEY USO (w/Jimmy Uso) vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Darren Young)

Young talks about running NXT, so Regal says, "Do I need to verbally castrate you?" and then does so with ease. He talks about taking control and keeping Hawkins and Reks off as punishment for their attitudes, and then tells Young that he needs to toe the line too.

Jey with hard offense and Jimmy talks about how it's tough to transition from being a team to singles competition. Young mouths off, so Regal hints at a match next week. Jey looks for the Superfly Splash, but O'Neil rolls out of the ring.

Out of the break, O'Neil is beating on Jey in the corner. Jey can't get traction as Regal mentions that The Usos train with Booker T to keep improving. Regal jumps on Young for wearing a "balance bracelet" and for not talking up O'Neil. Regal reminds Young that he got "who are you" chants last week. Young's headset isn't on right, so it's hard to hear him. Regal jumps on Young for not sounding upset about the "who are you" chants. O'Neil gets creative with a running back elbow on a seated Jey Uso. Jey then manages a massive back body drop on the big man O'Neil, and Regal rightfully praises it.

Jey fires up and puts O'Neil down with a spinning elbow, then puts him down with a stinkface for two. Disgusting quote of the night from Regal: "I've had my head buried up your father's crevice so many times you wouldn't believe it." Thanks for the visual, Regal. Jey gets a Samoan Drop and goes for the Superfly Splash, but O'Neil gets knees up. That looks like it hurt. O'Neil catches the stumbling Jey Uso with the Clash of the Titus for the win.

WINNER: Titus O'Neil at 6:15. Jey Uso did a good job making O'Neil look good, and Jimmy did a fine job in the booth to talk up their tandem. Darren Young was totally blindsided on commentary - Regal and Mathews gave him every opportunity to develop as a character or expand upon his teaming with O'Neil, and he completely dropped the ball. Regal egged him on about the "who are you" chants and Young sounded like he was talking about a gallon of milk gone bad instead of having the anger that he needed to show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 01 2012, 05:10 am
WWE Superstars Results: 3-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_59697.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - ALEX RILEY vs. HEATH SLATER

Matt Striker and Scott Stanford are in the booth on this one. I am curious how it works out, because this is a pairing that I've thought for some time would be a good team. Back-and-forth action to start. Slater does a nice job at portraying his character with in-ring mannerisms, and is constantly growing with it. Slater dominates for a stretch as Stanford and Striker talk up Riley as a nice guy, including taking his mother to the Hall of Fame ceremony even though women throw themselves at him.

Slater with a leaping neckbreaker for a close two count, and Slater argues at the ref. Riley draws Tim Tebow comparisons, in no small part because he has a Biblical reference written on his wristtape. Riley dodges an elbow in the corner to turn the tide. Riley with his usual comeback, including the big spinebuster. Riley with the A-Bomb faceplant in the corner for a nearfall. Slater then elbows out of the Final Score and he fires back with this running neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: Heath Slater at 5:40. Fun match with lots of back-and-forth. Heath Slater continues to impress with his growth as a wrestler, both in terms of technical ability and his ability to portray a character. Alex Riley is someone I continue to want to see more of.

WrestleMania ad, Punk vs. Jericho video package, Triple H vs. Undertaker video package, video on Kelly Kelly and Maria Menounos vs. Eve Torres & Beth Phoenix, "Bending the Rules" trailer, and another Rock-Cena ad.

2 - TYSON KIDD vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

This is set to be a top-flight match. Too bad there's well under ten minutes left in the video feed for the match.

Lightning-quick chain wrestling to start the match. They crank up the intensity and start combining luchador speed and martial arts counters and throws. They head to the outside and Kidd hits a side Russian legsweep into the barrier. Kidd rolls Gabriel into the ring and follows with a springboard dropkick for two. Gabriel turns it around by outwitting Kidd in the corner, then moves to attack. Gabriel counters a snap huracanrana with a powerbomb for two. Yikes.

Kidd rolls under a huge springboard moonsault and lands a dropkick for a nearfall. Kidd wants the Sharpshooter, but Gabriel counters, then reverses into a roll-through for two. Kidd tries his reverse slingshot sunset flip, but Gabriel has it scouted and turns it around and stacks Kidd up on the shoulders for the pin. Post-match, the shake hands and Kidd raises Gabriel's hand.

WINNER: Justin Gabriel in 5:00. Someone please go back in time and give these two an extra ten minutes from those video packages! There was more action here in five minutes than on a two-hour Raw. It looks like they may be slotting Justin Gabriel into a tag team with Tyson Kidd, instead of the injured Trent Barreta.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 01 2012, 05:11 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 3-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_59713.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- VELVET SKY vs. MADISON RAYNE

The bell rang as Rayne attacked Sky on her way into the ring, and hit a flying heel kick, followed by choking Sky out on the ropes. The crowd chanted for Sky as she made a comeback for a two count following a dropkick to Rayne. Sky hit a “spear-like move” followed by a bulldog and In Yo Face for the win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky via pinfall at 3:00. Quick and painless, but it's not like that is a testament to the work from these Knockouts. Sky and Rayne are a mixed bag, in that their work ranges from pleasantly passable to almost unwatchable, but they have come a long way from playing second and third fiddle to Angelina Love.

2 -- MATT MORGAN vs. CRIMSON

In the ring, Crimson got the offensive advantage over Morgan, until Morgan was able to knock Crimson to the outside. Crimson yanked Morgan out of the ring and slammed his head on the apron and threw him back in the ring for a two count. Morgan was able to dodge a spear that sent Crimson, shoulder first, into the ringpost. He was able to take advantage of Crimson’s mistake, and continued to brawl with him outside of the ring. As Morgan reversed Crimson’s piledriver attempt on the ramp, the ref rang the bell for a double-countout.

WINNER: The match ended in a double-countout at 3:51.

Morgan and Crimson continued to battle until they were out of the Impact Zone.

3-- MR. ANDERSON vs. JEFF HARDY

Hardy and Anderson started the match exchanging basic holds. As the wrestlers went at it in the ring Mike Tenay announced that the Motor City Machine Guns would be returning next week. Back to the match, Anderson nailed Hardy with a big kick to the side of the gut of a fallen Hardy. Hardy made a comeback, but missed a dropkick in the corner, which led to a two count from Anderson. Hardy was able to come back on the offensive with a pair of dropkicks for a two count. Anderson was able to regain the offensive edge and hit an elbow drop, and tried to followed up with the Mic Check, but Hardy countered, which led to both wrestlers butting heads so bad that it sent Hardy to the outside. Outside the ring, Angle snuck up on Hardy and hit him with a low blow before throwing him back in the ring. In the ring, Anderson hit a dazed Hardy with a Mic Check for the win.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson via pinfall at 4:17. A pretty standard match the furthered the issue between Angle and Hardy. After airing vignettes over the past few weeks for the return of the Motor City Machineguns. I found it strange that they would just announce their return date so anticlimactically in the middle of an unrelated match.

4 -- BULLY RAY & TNA World Heavyweight champion BOBBY ROODE vs. JAMES STORM & TNA X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES

It seemed as if Aries and Ray were going to start the match as the crowd chanted for Aries. Ray teased Aries about getting his hands on him, but then tagged Roode in. Roode took advantage of Aries trying to tag Storm in to face to Roode. Aries showed off some his flashy offense until Roode was able to ground for a short while before Aries nailed him with an elbow to the face.

Back from the break, Aries was in the ring getting the better of Ray. Aries continued to get the best of Ray in the corner until he caught Ray’s boot the face.

Ray tagged in Roode, who picked up his scraps while taunting Storm. Roode got a little offense in before tagging Ray back into the match. Ray put Aries into the corner where Roode started to get into his face yelling that he was the real champion which prompted Aires to wake up and attacked both Roode and Ray. Aries was able to roll through Ray’s offense to tag in Storm, who cleaned house.

As Storm was about to substantially get his hands on Roode, Ray got involved as Roode went to the outside to fill his mouth up with some of Storm’s beer. Roode tried to spit Storm’s beer in his face, but Storm as quick enough to dodge the spray as it hit Ray in the face. Storm hit the superkick on Ray for the pin.

WINNERS: James Storm and Austin Aries via pinfall at 12:24. Good match that shouldn’t have been overshadowed by a segment with Hogan and a trite authority figure scenario. This match accomplished two significant things: one, it established Austin Aries as a serious contender outside of the World Title picture, as he picked up the slack for an injured Storm, and two, it made Storm look like badass for picking up the win for his team.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 01 2012, 05:13 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 3-30-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_59767.shtml) For the most part, the show focused on Wrestlemania and the Fan Axxess events taking place. The two matches shown were taped from last Monday's live RAW event from Monday for this show.

1 – ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

During Ryder’s entrance, they showed Josh Mathews and Matt Striker at the announce desk. Ryder did an inset interview talking positively about his relationship with Eve and how she’ll help Team Teddy go all the way at Wrestlemania. McIntyre was on his heels early on, with Ryder getting the better of him. McIntyre appeared to have the advantage, but Ryder turned the tide with a dropkick. Leapfrog, then a flapjack by Ryder. On a charge, Ryder was sent up into the air and came down on McIntyre’s knee. Snap suplex for two at 2:11. Gut-buster by McIntyre for another two-count. Mathews said we’d be joined by Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler at Fan Axxess throughout the show. McIntyre came off the middle rope and ate a boot. Ryder began to come back at 4:31 and landed the Broski Boot. Cover got two at 5:06. McIntyre created enough separation to get a big boot for two. Ryder got his knees up on a corner charge and hit the Rough Ryder leg drop for the win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 6:00. Basically a Superstars match.

2 – CHRIS JERICHO vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Shoulder knock-down by Jericho, and he did some simple taunting, but Kofi came back with a jumping back-elbow and a corner splash. The match spilled to ringside but quickly went back in the ring. Jericho had the upper-hand when they went to break 1:56 into the match.

Back at 5:50, Jericho still working over Kingston. He connected on a baseball slide that sent Kingston to ringside. Jericho sent Kingston head-first into the exposed steel barrier at ringside. After Kingston worked out of a rear chinlock, Jericho hit an enziguiri for two. More taunting and posing from Jericho, but that opened the door for Kingston. He exploded out of the corner with a clothesline. Chops and a dropkick, then Kofi gathered a head of steam for his Boom Drop. It was successful. Trouble in Paradise missed and Jericho went for the Walls. Kingston flipped out of it and hit a high cross-body off the top for two at 10:15. Another Trouble in Paradise counter and this time the Walls of Jericho was locked in, and it wasn’t the wussy Boston Crab either. It was legit, and Kofi tapped.

WINNER: Jericho, at 11:11.

Noted in the show, the WWE.com pre-show will also air on YouTube, at 6:30 pm EST Sunday and the WWE HOF, which takes place Saturday night will air an hour special Monday night before WWE RAW.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 09:24 am
WWE WrestleMania XXVIII PPV Results: 4-1-12 (next several posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing reoprt). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_59831.shtml)

1 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN (w/A.J.) vs. SHEAMUS -- World Title match

Once the bell sounded, A.J. hopped on the ring apron to get a good luck kiss. Bryan then turned around and suddenly ate a Brogue Kick. Sheamus with the cover for the win. Ringside, A.J. was stunned as Sheamus celebrated the World Title victory. They went to a replay that lasted as long as the match, then Lawler claimed it was a "world record" for shortest World Title change.

WINNER: Sheamus at 0:18 to capture the World Title. And, for the second year in a row, Bryan-Sheamus gets the shaft.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 09:39 am
2 -- KANE vs. RANDY ORTON

No finish after 18 seconds. The crowd, ready to make a point, chanted "Daniel Bryan" as Kane and Orton exchanged basic holds to begin the match. Orton then put Kane on the mat and began stomping away. Kane then took control with a sidewalk slam for a two count. "That there is vintage Kane," Cole said. The two men resumed a back-and-forth exchange as the crowd remained quiet. Orton then built an attack, getting the crowd involved.

Orton followed with a DDT from the second rope as the sun began to set in the background. Orton then went to That Place to stalk Kane for an RKO, but Kane shoved him off and landed a boot to the face for a two count. Kane then went up top for a clothesline, but Orton intercepted with a mid-air dropkick. Orton sold a left knee injury, then teased a Punt, but Kane intercepted with a chokeslam. Kane made a cover for a two count only, popping the crowd.

At 10:00, the fight moved up-top, where Orton landed multiple fist strikes. Orton then wanted a superplex, but Kane blocked and nailed a top-rope chokeslam. Kane made the cover and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Kane at 10:58. Surprising outcome. It looks like WWE wants to re-build Kane coming out of Mania. Overall, Kane and Orton put in a good effort, winning over a let-down crowd with a strong second-half to the match. (**1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 09:50 am
3 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. BIG SHOW -- Intercontinental Title match

Show quickly cornered Rhodes before tossing him clear across the ring. Show then hushed the crowd and did the frying pan chop to the chest. Lawler offered an odd line about Show's weight fluctuating 15 pounds on any given day depending on what he eats for breakfast. Show continued the assault by smushing Rhodes's face in-between his cheeks in the corner. Show continued to have fun with Rhodes, but lost control with an airball on a corner butt splash. Rhodes then went after the left knee to take Show off his feet and began working over the challenger.

After Rhodes worked over Show's knee for a bit, Show came back with a hip toss, but Rhodes yanked Show arm-first across the top rope. Rhodes followed with the Disaster Kick, then tried again, but Show punched him in mid-air to block. Show dropped the straps, then delivered the KO Punch. Show made the cover for the win. Post-match: Show sold emotion before accepting the IC Title belt, which was about the size of his hand. Cole said Show finally has his WrestleMania moment.

WINNER: Show at 5:20 to capture the IC Title. So, now what for the IC Title? Show made Rhodes look small, but Rhodes had some offense to retain a shred of credibility. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 10:17 am
4 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & EVE vs. KELLY KELLY & MARIA MENOUNOS

Before the match, WWE ran a video package on the Divas roster before Eve and Beth came out to the ring. WWE then showed footage from "Extra" when the four participants set up this match. Babyface Divas Kelly and Maria came out next, and the announcers stressed Maria is working hurt with broken ribs from DWTS training. The match built to Kelly getting a hot tag before the action broke down. Maria then took a final tag, Beth teased the Glam Slam, but Kelly made the save, and Maria pinned Beth for the win. Cole called it an "Extra...special" win for Maria tonight as the camera picked up a "Mario Lopez is a tool" sign. The faces celebrated the win.

WINNERS: Maria & Kelly at 6:50. Your basic WrestleMania Divas celebrity tag match.

The THE UNDERTAKER vs. TRIPLE H -- Hell in a Cell match is next with special guest referee Shawn Michaels and special guest commentator Jim Ross.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 10:56 am
5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. TRIPLE H -- Hell in a Cell match -- Undertaker's 19-0 Mania Streak on the line -- Shawn Michaels special referee

Once the bell sounded, they backed up two steps, then charged each other. A flurry of rights and lefts followed as Lawler discussed Taker's new look. Lawler gave a storyline explanation that Taker began cutting his hair off every day until Hunter accepted this match. The match moved to outside the ring and they threw each other into the Cell walls a few times. "Under-Taker" chant as Taker blasted Hunter into the Cell walls. From inside the ring, Michaels tried to get them back in the ring, but Taker lightly shoved Michaels. Taker continued on, shoving Hunter into the ring steps.

Back in the ring, Hunter reversed a whip and landed a kneebuster, but Taker popped up, no-sold, and delivered a big clothesline that popped the crowd. Taker then went old-school to continue the assault, clearly being the dominant wrestler early on. Hunter tried to roll to the outside for a breather, but Taker followed with a ring step shot to the face. Taker then nailed his trademark leg drop as Hunter was draped across the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Taker slowly approached Hunter to continue the assault, but Hunter suddenly delivered a kick to the gut and DDT to slow down Taker. Hunter followed with multiple shots into the ring steps, which Taker previously brought into the ring. Hunter then wanted the Pedigree on the steps, but Taker countered with a back-drop to center-ring. Taker landed body shots, but then walked into a spinebuster across the ring steps. Big reaction for that spot. Taker then suddenly applied the Hell's Gate submission, but Hunter lifted Taker into the air for a sit-down powerbomb. There was a trickle of blood involved at this point, apparently coming from a cut over Hunter's eye.

Hunter then went to the outside and retrieved a chair, which he cracked over Taker's back. Hunter then threw Taker into the ring steps, which he propped up in the corner. Hunter followed with more chair shots to the back as Michaels winced in the background. Hunter then went rapid-fire, drawing in Michaels to hold back Hunter. Hunter lightly pushed him aside, then landed more chair shots. Michaels had enough and yanked the chair away. Hunter told Michaels to end it, then, but Michaels said Taker will never quit. A little early for this story to come into play when Taker was dominating just a few minutes ago.

Michaels checked on Taker, then Hunter pushed HBK aside and landed more chair shots to the back. "Do not stop it!" Taker told HBK. At 14:00, Taker slowly pulled himself up to his feet and met Hunter, who landed a chair shot to the gut, then another shot to the back. Hunter made a cover, but Taker unemphatically kicked out. Hunter then landed more chair shots to the back before going to the outside. "Don't stop it, Shawn!" Taker told the ref. Hunter retrieved his Sledgehammer, then HBK and Hunter argued. Michaels told Taker he wants to ring the bell, but Taker waved him off. Hunter then blasted Taker with a Sledgehammer shot to the face, but Taker kicked out in time. Big reaction.

Hunter then went for another Sledgehammer shot, but Michaels jumped on Hunter's back and yanked it away. The fans booed. Hunter told Michaels to end the match. HBK teased calling for the bell, but stopped short. HBK continued to milk it, giving Taker a breather without making it obvious. Suddenly, Taker yanked Michaels into the Hell's Gate. Hunter then broke it up with a Sledgehammer shot to Taker's head. Hunter was the only man on his feet, then Hunter tried to nail Taker again, but Taker kicked him in the gut and slapped on Hell's Gate. Hunter fought the hold as Michaels remained KO'ed in the corner. Hunter faded out in the hold, but HBK was still down. Taker eventually released the hold, then ref Charles Robinson stormed the Cell. He struggled to unlock the Cell door, then another ref showed up to help him out.

Back in the ring, Taker delivered a chokeslam mid-ring. Taker covered Hunter, but Hunter kicked out to a big reaction. Taker sold shock, then grabbed ref Robinson and chokeslammed him, giving Charles his WrestleMania Moment. Ross called it the scene of a car accident. The match eventually reset with Taker and Hunter on their feet. Taker wanted the Tombstone, but Hunter escaped and HBK suddenly popped Taker with Sweet Chin Music. Hunter made the sure-bet cover, but Taker kicked out just before three. HBK, shocked, covered his face in the corner as Ross declared, "Undertaker will not die."

They reset at 22:00 with HBK and Hunter on their feet. Hunter then tossed HBK through the ropes to the outside. Suddenly, in the background, Taker sat up and stared down Hunter. Taker was a house of fire with a kick, stomp, and another kick. Taker then clotheslined Hunter before dropping Hunter with Snake Eyes. Taker with a leg drop, but there was no available ref. Taker then delivered the Tombstone Piledriver center ring. Taker made the cover, HBK re-entered the ring with a leap across the ring, and Taker only scored a two count. Taker sold shock with drool coming out of his mouth. HBK returned to the corner, selling emotion, as he contemplated what to do about this.

They reset at 24:20 with both men on their knees. An exchange of right hands led to an exchange on their feet. The crowd cheered along with each right hand before Hunter set up and connected with the Pedigree. Hunter made the cover, but Taker kicked out again, popping the crowd again, as captured by a wide crowd shot. Back in the ring, Hunter and Taker were shown on the mat, breathless, as Michaels simply stood in the corner, helpless.

Taker, working on his seventh out of nine lives, sat up in the ring as Hunter reached for the Sledgehammer. Taker also retrieved a chair. Taker was the first man up and he stood on the Sledge. Taker then jabbed the chair into Hunter's neck region. A chair shot across the back followed. More chair shots by Taker to Hunter. This time, Michaels was freaking out over Taker tearing apart Hunter. More chair shots followed. Michaels then pushed Taker aside, Taker tossed the chair aside, and covered Hunter for a two count. Michaels told them to stop as the camera focused on big welts and bruises on Taker's back.

Just before 30:00, Taker pushed aside a weak Sledgehammer shot as Hunter sold exhaustion. Hunter then stood in the corner, did a crotch chop, and Taker blasted him with a Sledgehammer shot to the head. Michaels turned his back, not able to watch this. Hunter then pulled a Michaels at WM26 slowly climbing up Taker's leg. Taker called for the end, then positioned Hunter for the Tombstone. Taker connected center-ring, Taker folded Hunter's arms, and Michaels made the three count. Taker wins. 20-0.

Post-match: All three men remained in the same position - Michaels standing over both bodies, Hunter flat on his back, and Taker looking up at the lights, as well. The Cell then raised to the sky as Taker rolled onto his stomach, the welts on his back visible. Michaels knelt down next to Hunter, who remained KO'ed in the ring. Taker then recovered in the corner and Michaels came over to him. Ross asked whether Taker or Hunter will ever compete again after this. Michaels extended his hand and helped up Taker, then they two shared a moment with words whispered in each other's ears.

Taker then stood up on his own two feet and stared into the crowd, which applauded the effort. Hunter remained motionless on the mat, then Taker bent down to pose as his music played and the blue lights flashed in Sun Life. The announcers remained silent as WWE focused on giant 20-0 text on the scoreboard. Back in the ring, Hunter was still out cold as Taker leaned across the top rope. Taker approached Hunter and waved his finger as Michaels continued to kneel down next to Hunter. Taker and Michaels then grabbed Hunter and pulled him off the mat, the brothers and old souls helping each other out of the ring to applause. "That, ladies and gentlemen, is respect," Ross said with the perfect tone to capture the moment. Once everyone was assembled outside the ring to exit the ring, WWE replayed high points from the match. Back live, they showed all three men now on the stage, with Hunter struggling to stand. All three men hugged on the stage, then turned to walk to the back. Ross said it's a match they will all remember forever.

WINNER: Taker at 30:52 to retain The Streak. Amazing, amazing storytelling. There were some off spots mid-way through that made it more chaotic than needed, but that is a minor complaint in the grand scheme of a 30-minute classic that played off the previous WrestleMania matches involving Taker, Hunter, and HBK from the previous three Manias. Simply breath-taking involving all three Legends. (****1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 11:29 am
6 -- TEAM LAURINAITIS (captain DAVID OTUNGA & MARK HENRY & DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER & DREW MCINTYRE & THE MIZ w/John Laurinaitis, Vickie Guerrero, and Brie Bella) vs. TEAM LONG (U.S. champion captain SANTINO & KOFI KINGSTON & BOOKER T & GREAT KHALI & R-TRUTH & ZACK RYDER w/Eve, Teddy Long, Hornswoggle, and Nikki Bella) -- 12-man tag match -- winning team's GM takes over both brands

Everyone got their time in the ring to start the match. Booker then cleared the red-shirted heels from the ring apron before walking into a neck snap from Otunga. The heels took turns working over Booker, including Henry offering some trash-talk in-between blows and kicks. The blue-shirted faces eventually tried to start up a "Booker" chant to rally him.

Suddenly, Khali entered the ring to knock down Henry, so Swagger and Mac double-suplexed Khali. The action broke down with men running in and out of the ring at this point. Suddenly, Hornswoggle was in the ring and he tried to splash Henry, but Henry tossed him aside, only to see Truth and Kofi splash the heels ringside. Suddenly, the women involved in the match picked up a cat fight ringside. Miz, with his 0-20 streak on the line, was left in the ring against Santino. Santino then hit the Sailor's Salute top-rope dive before reaching into his trunks for the Cobra. Laurinaitis distracted Santino, but Santino still nailed the Cobra on Miz. Santino made a cover and appeared to score a three count, but Ziggler apparently broke up the pin in time.

They reset with bodies flying in the ring again. Ziggler popped the crowd with an athletic feat before Ryder leaped over Miz onto Ziggler with the Rough Ryder. Suddenly, Eve entered the ring to get her shine with Ryder. The distraction allowed Miz to tackle Ryder from behind and nail the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz made the cover on Ryder and it was good for the win. Miz ends 0-20 TV/PPV losing streak dating back to 2011, Laurinaitis has control of both brands now, and everyone is mad at Eve.

Post-match: The heels celebrated on the outside as Eve tried to console Ryder in the ring while the other team members stood in the background. Was she hired by Team Laurinaitis? Suddenly, Eve kicked Ryder between the legs and stormed out of the ring. On-stage, Eve smiled as she walked away with the spotlight on her. After a replay of the items in the match, they returned with Ryder recovering in the ring and Eve smirking on-stage.

WINNERS: Team Laurinaitis at 10:38. It's a new era for Miz coming out of Mania, Eve is the top heel in the Divas division, and it will be interesting to see how WWE handles Laurinaitis in control of both brands ahead of the upcoming Draft.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 12:10 pm
7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- WWE Title match -- If Punk is DQ'ed, Jericho captures WWE Title

Early on, Punk nearly got himself DQ'ed with four stomps in the corner, stopping short just before five. Jericho then egged on Punk by slapping him multiple times, trying to get a DQ. "How's your father?" Jericho shouted at Punk, who tackled Jericho before landing multiple elbow strikes to the neck. The match then moved to the outside, where Jericho continued to taunt Punk by asking, "How's your sister?" with a crazy look in his eyes. Punk then chased Jericho into the ring with a chair as Jericho continued to taunt him. Punk teased a chair shot, but thought better of it and delivered a kick to the gut. Jericho took control moments later, though.

After Jericho inflicted more pain on the outside, Jericho continued to target Punk's lower back inside the ring. Jericho taunted Punk as the crowd tried to get involved by rallying behind Punk. Jericho then paused to wipe blood off his forehead, which came from a cut above his left eye. The match slowed down when Punk kicked Jericho away and Jericho recovered in the corner. Punk and Jericho then entered classic reverse/counter mode, teasing finishers that got the crowd involved. Punk landed a swift kick to the head, but it was only good for a two count.

At 12:00, Punk went up top and set up for the Macho Man elbow drop as a giant palm tree lingered in the background. Jericho countered the elbow drop, though, and landed the Codebreaker. Punk smartly rolled to the outside to avoid a three count, then Jericho rolled him back into the ring. Punk suddenly captured Jericho for the GTS and connected. Punk was slow to make a cover and Jericho put his foot on the bottom rope for a break. Jericho recovered and went up top, but Punk cut him off with slaps and chops. Punk then tried to snap off a huracanrana, but Jericho made an amazing counter into the Walls of Jericho in one fluid motion. Punk fought the hold and reached the bottom rope for a break.

At 17:00, Jericho charged Punk, who back-dropped him clear over the top rope to the outside. Punk followed with a suicide dive before delivering a running knee strike that sent Jericho back-of-the-head-first into the ringpost. Ouch. Punk then rolled Jericho back into the ring and went for a springboard move, but Jericho intercepted with a mid-air Codebreaker. Punk kicked out of a pin attempt, though. Jericho then pulled up Punk and told him he's the Best in the World.

After blocking two GTS attempts, Jericho went up top, but Punk smashed him with a kick to the mid-section. Jericho was draped across the top turnbuckle, so Punk hoisted him up for the GTS. "Best in the world!" Punk declared before Jericho countered the GTS into the Liontamer. Jericho then transitioned to the Walls of Jericho, with Punk gasping for air center-ring. Punk then crawled across the ring toward the bottom rope, but Jericho yanked him back to center-ring. Punk suddenly countered into a small package, which Jericho reversed. Suddenly, Punk floated over Jericho into the Vice. But, Jericho yanked Punk's hair into a roll-up, which Punk countered by re-establishing the Vice. Jericho fought out with knees and kicks to the back of the head, then he floated over Punk into a submission attempt, only to have Punk block. Amazing counter/reversal sequence. Punk then broke the leverage and slapped on the Vice again. More knees from Jericho. Punk pulled his head away, though, and Jericho had no more escape routes. Jericho fought the hold as the crowd roared, sensing the end. Jericho then tapped out, giving Punk the submission win.

WINNER: Punk via submission at 22:21. Up-and-down match until one of the better match finishes you'll see with some great counters, reversals, and physical feats of strength on the mat. The match started off as a case of mis-matched expectations with the crowd expecting a straight-up, one-on-one classic, but it started out as an extended TV match focusing on the pre-match storyline. As a credit to them, Punk and Jericho managed to turn it into a great one-on-one with a very strong final five minutes. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 02 2012, 01:18 pm
8 -- THE ROCK vs. JOHN CENA

Once the bell sounded, the crowd roared for the big fight of the evening. The two men danced around the ring before locking up center-ring. Cena won the exchange by shoving Rock away to the corner, stunning Rock. The crowd responded with a Cena Sucks chant. They locked up again and Rock shoved Cena to the corner. "Whatcha gonna do?" Rock asked Cena. Rock then won the next exchange before scaring Cena with a two count on a quick small package. Next, they did a drop down, leap frog, duck-the-clothesline sequence, which was won by Cena, who slapped on a headlock to slow down the pace.

Rock suddenly popped Cena with a right hand to the jaw, catching Cena off-guard. Cena charged Rock, who teased a submission, but Cena fought him off and slipped to the outside to recover. Back in the ring, Cena targeted Rock's mid-section with a kick and shoulder tackles. Cena then ran over Rock with a clothesline, and Rock kicked out at one. Cena resumed his focus on Rock's mid-section, targeting the injured area. Cena then pulled down the top rope and Rock went flying to the outside. On the floor, Cena dropped Rock neck-first across the guardrail, sending Rock reeling. Cena followed with a slam onto the announce table, targeting the ribs. Cena slipped into the ring, then returned to the outside and threw Rock back inside the ring for a two count on a pin attempt.

Cena, who is usually on the defensive for his big matches, continued the attack on Rock, who sold the ribs as Cena landed blows and strikes, followed by a belly-to-belly suplex for a two count. Suddenly, Rock fired off a right hand, but Cena cut him off and locked in a bearhug. Rock eventually recovered inside the hold and kicked Cena in the gut to deliver a DDT for a two count. The two men then came to their feet and started trading big right hand bombs, leading to Rock flying off the ropes with a clothesline. Rock with a spinebuster, then he set up Cena for the People's Elbow, but Cena suddenly countered with an STF tease. Rock escaped, then Cena did his Five Knuckle Shuffle set-up. Cena wanted the Shuffle, and he connected, no counter. Cena, with a cut on his cheek, then stalked Rock for the Attitude Adjustment, but Rock slipped out. Double clothesline put both men on the mat.

Rock and Cena reset at 13:00 by coming to their feet and trading right hand bombs again. Cena was more powerful, rocking Rock, who suddenly came back with right hands. He wanted the trademark spit-on-the-hand-and-slap, but Cena was quick to duck, hoist up Rock, hit the AA, and instantly make a cover, but Rock kicked out just in time, popping the crowd. Big spot. The crowd recovered, then started a dueling chant. Suddenly, Rock nailed Rock Bottom center-ring. Rock made a cover, but Cena kicked out. The crowd popped briefly, then simultaneously came down to their seats.

The match resumed in the corner with Rock landing elbows and strikes in the corner. Rock, more confident after the Rock Bottom, wanted a corner move, but Cena countered with a sidewalk slam for a two count. Cena popped up and surveyed his next move before approaching the top turnbuckle. Cena wanted the top-rope guillotine drop, and he connected. Cena quickly made a cover, but Rock kicked out again.

They reset at 18:00 with Rock applying the Sharpshooter center-ring. Cena crawled across the ring toward the ropes, then reached out and grabbed the bottom rope. Rock followed up with rapid-fire right hand strikes to the head. Rock then tried the Sharpshooter again and Cena cried out in agony. Cena made it the bottom rope again, though. They were 15 minutes away from the top of the hour and seemingly not close to a finish as Rock inflicted further punishment on the outside by throwing Cena into the ring steps. The two men then returned to the ring with Cena scoring with a sunset flip into the STF in one swift move. Rock fought the hold as Lawler noted Rock can't make movies with a broken leg. Rock teased reaching the ropes, so Cena dragged him back to the middle of the ring to re-apply the STF. Rock started to fade, and closed his eyes. The ref checked Rock's hand a few times, then raised Rock's arm once. And, twice. Rock's hand nearly hit the mat on the third arm drop, but Rock held it up high, popping the crowd. Rock then got a burst of energy to reach the bottom rope for a break. Nice, dramatic sequence.

They reset at 24:00 with Cena selling his back after keeping the hold applied for so long. Cena was the first man up and he walked right into a Samoan Drop. Rock, exhausted, couldn't make a cover, though, and both men sold on the mat. At 25:00, they reached their feet and started trading bombs again. Cena got fired up and landed consecutive blows. Rock teased Rock Bottom, Cena teased the AA, and Rock delivered a spinebuster. Rock then stood over Cena to set up for and deliver the People's Elbow. Cole noted it's how he beat Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold, and perhaps Cena, but Cena kicked out of the elbow. Rock recovered and approached Cena, who countered with a quick small package for a two count.

The two men came to their feet at 27:15 and Cena catapulted Rock into the corner before rolling up Cena for a two count. Both men sold on the mat, then Cena sat up and looked down at Rock before gingerly helping him up to his feet. Cena drove Rock into the corner, then hoisted him up to the top turnbuckle. Suddenly, Rock delivered right hand strikes to the mid-section that decked Cena. Rock, alone on top, climbed up to the top turnbuckle and came flying off the top with a flying body splash, but Cena rolled through and powered Rock into AA position. Cena delivered it center-ring. Cena made the cover, but Rock kicked out just in time. Big pop for the nearfall. Cena laughed and told the ref he knows he got him.

Cena then stood up, contemplated his next movie, smirked to the crowd, and did Rock's People's Elbow hand motion to boos before setting up for the Elbow. As Cena hopped over Rock, Rock popped up in the background and caught Cena with the Rock Bottom. Rock made the cover and it was good for the win. The crowd exploded in unison.

Post-match: Cena rolled out of the ring as Cole covered for Cena, saying he doesn't think there was a loser tonight. Cole said Cena was dominant tonight. In the ring, Rock posed and sold emotion as he celebrated in front of the Miami crowd. The crowd continued to cheer as Rock posed in the ring. Cena was shown sitting on the entrance ramp, a mix of being stunned and disbelieving. Cole wrapped up the show as Rock posed in the corner turnbuckle three minutes before the top of the hour.

WINNER: Rock at 30:34, 18 seconds shorter than Taker-Hunter, with 18 seconds being the length of the opening match. Well worth the year-long hype with an outstanding performance from both men. It's difficult to compare to Taker-Hunter, as they were two different matches, but this matched the effort, story, and finish. Cena not winning was surprising, but WWE, Rock, and Cena played the psychological games ahead of time making it seem like Cena would win. But, now, Cena can take a different route coming out of Mania when his cockiness got the best of him. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2012, 09:37 am
WWE RAW Results: 4-2-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_59908.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results plus bonus comments from yours truly.

- John Laurinaitis now controls RAW and Smackdown. He puts Santino in a match to defend his US title against both Swagger and Ziggler. Punk comes out and calls Johnny a toolbox and for that comment he gets to defend the title against Mark Henry.

- The Rock hogs the fnext 15 minutes or so of the show. He now says his vision is to once again become WWE Champion.


1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. JACK SWAGGER -- three-way U.S. Title match

Ziggler and Swagger took turns dominating Santino early on. The crowd was much more appreciative of Ziggler's work than Swagger's push-up routine. Santino then teased a comeback, dumped Ziggler to the outside, and was clotheslined by Swagger. They cut to break with Swagger in control.

Back from break, the heels were in control until Santino thwarted a double-team. Santino then reached into his trunks for the Cobra, but Ziggler cut him off and landed a neckbreaker. Swagger and Ziggler then combined for a dangerous-looking double-team move on Santino that could have injured Santino's neck. Ziggler and Swagger then turned against each other, arguing over who should get the pin. After Ziggler took a wild bump into the top turnbuckle, Santino dropped Swagger with the Cobra for the win.

Post-match: Santino escaped an attack by pointing to an object and running away. Suddenly, Brodus Clay appeared on-stage in normal Brodus mode to stand next to Santino. Ziggler then charged Clay, who headbutted him in mid-air, with Ziggler taking a big, wild bump on the entrance ramp. "Funkasauras" chant as Swagger decided whether to go after Clay or call it a night. Swagger opted to check on Ziggler, then Clay's music hit and the dancers came out for Swagger, Santino, and the Funkettes to dance in a scene from Santino's YouTube show.

WINNER: Santino at 6:52 to retain the U.S. Title. Basic Santino vs. Vickie storytelling with Santino finding a way to thwart the incompetent villains and "put a smile on people's faces."

2 -- LORD TENSAI (w/Sakamoto) vs. ALEX RILEY

Tensai slowly picked apart Riley, methodically inflicting punishment while staring into the crowd every once in a while. The crowd chanted, "A-Train," once in a while, but they were more hushed as Tensai slowly destroyed Riley. Tensai delivered a butterfly suplex bomb, then delivered an elbow drop follwed by a flying splash. Tensai continued to take his time picking apart Riley before delivering hard elbow strikes in the corner. The crowd chanted along, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" with each elbow strike. Lawler noted this is how Tensai destroyed competition in Japan. Tensai then hit a bit sit-out powerbomb, and the ref called for the bell. Apparently Riley could no longer continue.

Post-match, The crowd wasn't sure how to react, then Tensai spewed mist into the crowd and applied The Claw to Riley's head to inflict more punishment. They replayed Tensai's destruction of Riley as Sakamato joined him in the ring for a celebration. Lawler said he didn't see any flaws or weaknesses in the ring. Tensai was then shown slowly walking out of the ring. Now a word from Yoshi Tatsu on Twitter, "I just wanna let you know Lord Tensai is NOT Japanese. I'm REAL Japanese!!!"

WINNER: Tensai via referee stoppage at 2:50. It was like a pre-Funkasauras Brodus Clay squash match, only drawn out another two minutes and more methodical. It will be interesting to see how Bernard's re-introduction unfolds over the next few weeks and how it plays in front of a regular WWE crowd, not a hardcore fanbase the night after WrestleMania.

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. MARK HENRY -- WWE Title match

After formal ring intros, the bell sounded and Henry threw Punk across the ring to target Punk's injuries from last night at Mania. The crowd rallied with a "C-M-Punk" chant as Punk tried to get Henry off his feet, but couldn't. Henry then knocked Punk to the mat and stomped away at the champ. Cole did the line about not seeing how Punk will walk out as WWE champ tonight, which gave away the outcome. The crowd tried to rally with a "Yes! Yes! Yes!" chant as Henry trash-talked Punk. Henry then landed body shots to the stomach and back, targeting Punk's mid-section. Henry continued to handle running commentary, instructing Punk to stay down if he knows what's good for him.

At the top of the hour, Punk found himself in a bearhug that Punk countered with a DDT. Punk tried a cover, but Henry press-slammed him onto the ref. Punk followed with kicks and body shots as the crowd chanted, "Yes!" with each strike. Punk made a cover, but Henry grabbed the bottom rope for a break. The crowd then chanted, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" before Punk went for a top-rope move, only to find himself in Henry's arms for a bodyslam. Henry wanted a Vader Bomb, but Punk blocked and landed more "Yes!" body shots. Cole noted the crowd is jacked tonight.

Henry then kicked Punk in the face, prompting "No! No! No!" chants. Henry tried to finish Punk with a corner Vader Bomb, but Punk moved. Punk then went to the corner turnbuckle for a springboard move, but Henry intercepted with a clothesline. At 6:27, they cut to commercial with the two men locked in a stalemate.

After a video plug for Smackdown with WM28 fall-out, they returned with Punk on the top turnbuckle for a double axehandle attempt, but Henry intercepted with a kick to the injured mid-section. Henry then slowed down the match with a nervehold as the crowd apparently chanted Daniel Bryan's name. Punk fought back and got super-fired up with rapid-fire chops as the crowd chanted, "Yes!" with each chop. He finally floored Henry, drawing a big reaction. Punk then went up top to a big reaction, set up for the Macho Man elbow drop, smiled through the pain, and connected. Punk sold he may have hurt himself connecting, though.

They reset with Punk landed a high knee in the corner as Henry tried to recover. Punk followed with a second high-knee, then Punk tried a bulldog, but Henry lifted Punk up into the air and dropped him over the top rope on the floor. The ref applied a very fast ten count and Punk was not able to re-enter the ring, resulting in a count-out victory for Henry.

WINNER: Henry via count-out at 12:57; Punk retained the WWE Title. This was an amazing match. The crowd was red-hot, the storytelling of Henry cutting off Punk at every move was strong, Henry's trash-talking added to the match, and Henry looks like a monster heel again. Aside from the Punk-Bryan match a few months ago, this was one of the best Raw TV matches in a while. (***)

4 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. CODY RHODES

Kofi and Rhodes started off with quick offense, indicating this wouldn't be going long. Cody nailed the Disaster Kick early in the match, then Big Show's music suddenly played. Show walked out on-stage and told Cody he has something to show him from WrestleMania. He said he hopes Rhodes doesn't find it...embarrassing. Show introduced a slow-motion clip of his KO Punch that ended Rhodes's night and title reign. Back in the ring, Rhodes then tried to run at Kofi out of anger, but Kofi nailed him with Trouble in Paradise for the win.

WINNER: Kingston at 1:48.

5 -- THE MIZ vs. ZACK RYDER

Once the bell sounded, Miz taunted the Zack Ryder chants in the crowd. Meanwhile, Lawler said he's just been informed that John Cena has arrived at the building. To start the match, Ryder blasted away at Miz with strikes before throwing him to the outside and blasting him into the guardrail. Ryder continued to punish Miz back in the ring, but Miz cut him off with a big boot to the face. Ryder came back with double knees to the face, ducked a clothesline, and nailed a clothesline. Ryder then planted Miz face-first into the mat before nailing Miz with the Broski Boot. Ryder with a cover, but Miz kicked out. Miz then avoided a follow-up move and rammed Ryder into the guardrail. Miz then wanted the Skullcrushing Finale and he connected. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Miz at 2:56. Ryder momentarily re-built momentum showing fire early in the match, but it's clear Ryder is not a priority. Whereas, it appears WWE will be re-building Miz coming out of Mania.

- The show ended with John Cena apologizing to his fans for not beating the Rock but won't makes excuses. Crowd chants 'We want Lesnar!' Ask and ye shall receive. Brock came down and without a word drops Cena with an F5.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2012, 11:26 pm
WWE NXT Results: 4-4-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_60034.shtml)

1 - PERCY WATSON vs. TYLER REKS (w/Curt Hawkins)

Reks with trash talk to start - "You're still a Rookie in my eyes!" Not exactly Mark Henry quality. Watson lands an early arm drag, then Reks comes back with a waist ock, but Watson escapes, cinches a waistlock of his own, and then put Reks down with a belly-to-back. I thought I was seeing Jack Swagger in the ring for a moment. Reks gets out and puts Watson in an armbar, but Watson turns it around. Watson with the scissors kick and a butterfly suplex and Reks heads to ringside for a breather. Reks suckers Watson in, though, to gain control.

Reks demonstrates his power and continues to work Watson's left arm. Regal cuts Reks pretty badly, comparing his career to Sheamus's, and points out that while they both debuted on the same night on ECW, Sheamus is a three-time Heavyweight champion and Reks is still stuck on NXT. He suggests that he needs to look in the mirror and make a change. With Regal, I sometimes wonder how much of his commentary is coming from the script or headsets, how much is improv, and how much of it is legitimate.

Watson turns it around with a boot in the corner, then a high-flying, rapid-fire comeback with dropkicks and shoulder tackles. Watson hits the Highsman, but misses a corner charge. Reks looks for a back body drop, but in mid-air, Watson hooks Reks's back, slides down, and lands a schoolboy for the pin.

WINNER: Watson in 6:00. Watson changed his formula a bit tonight and kept it fresh. He incorporated some amateur style wrestling, for one thing. I almost suspect he's been working with Dolph Ziggler, Jack Swagger, or William Regal based on some of his moves. The mid-air schoolboy was unique and innovative. I want to see Percy Watson in the Money in the Bank match quite badly.

2 - KAITLYN vs. NATALYA

Natalya offers a hand slap and acts perky. Natalya with an innovative roll-through using her legs to hold Kaitlyn down and a bridge for extra leverage, getting a two count. Natalya offers another handslap. Kaitlyn with a headlock into a takedown. Kaitlyn with her power for a cover, and Natalya with a head scissors but Kaitlyn escapes. Kaitlyn with a schoolgirl for two, then a wristlock.

Kaitlyn with punches and Natalya fires out, but a hair pull sends her to the mat. No kidding, I just saw two full minutes of chain wrestling in a WWE Divas match. Natalya gets aggressive, and is bleeding a bit from the lower bicep. How often do you see blood in a Divas match? Natalya with an abdominal stretch and Kaitlyn is wearing Natalya's blood on her chin. Kaitlyn slips out of a powerslam attempt and nails a cross-body for two. Kaitlyn with a bridge cover of her own for two. Natalya bridges out of the cover, and they struggle for control before Natalya sends Kaitlyn to the mat. She looks for the Sharpshooter, locks it in, and Kaitlyn taps out in an instant.

WINNER: Natalya in 3:30. Fun match that smashed a lot of the limitations typical for Divas matches. Chain wrestling, blood, and a win for Natalya? More, please.

3 - THE USOS (w/Tamina Snuka) vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG

Jimmy and Young start off, and Young quickly starts to control. Jimmy knocks Young down and brings in Jey. Young tags to O'Neil, who delivers a big boot to send Jey flying. O'Neil and Young isolate Jey in the corner. Big powerslam from Jey and there's a double tag out. Jimmy rocks O'Neil with offense. Young makes the save on a pin attempt, but Jey tosses him out. This gives O'Neil a chance to gain control. Young is lolly-gagging on the outside, staring at Tamina, so O'Neil tells him to get his head right. That gives Jimmy a chance for a Samoan Drop and he tags in Jey, who gets the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos in 4:30. Okay match, though way too short for a tag match. Both Young and O'Neil need to work on putting up entertaining, sustained offense.

4 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

McGillicutty comes out of the bell like a man on a mission, but Bateman goes on the offensive. McGillicutty turns it into a street brawl. Bateman clears McGillicutty from the ring, then Bateman with a dropkick off the apron.

McGillicutty is fighting a hold out of the break. Vicious neckbreaker onto the rope and off the apron from McGillicutty, who goes into a hard offense mode, and the ref has to pull McGillicutty off Bateman in the corner. According to Regal, getting disqualified means you don't get paid for the night. That's a new one. I think Bateman's been going to the Dolph Ziggler School of Bumping. McGillicutty rolls around the mat with Bateman locked in a tight side chinlock.

Bateman gets some traction and lands a side Russian legsweep into the turnbuckle. Both men are down and get up on the six count. Bateman kicks McGillicutty's legs out a few times, then a huge STO. Bateman looks insane as he beats the stuffing out of McGillicutty. Running neckbreaker from Bateman gets a close nearfall. Bateman involves the crowd and lands a big clothesline in the corner. Bateman looks to head up top, but McGillicutty ducks the top rope crossbody, and McGillicutty cockily looks for the Sharpshooter. Bateman counters with an inside cradle for one, and they separate. McGillicutty kicks Bateman's leg and nails the Turning Heads neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: Michael McGillicutty in 9:00. This is easily Derrick Bateman's best work on display, and Michael McGillicutty's best match ever except his matches with Tyson Kidd in the last few weeks. I absolutely loved how McGillicutty made it a brawl to suit his "looking for revenge" story, and Bateman clearly wanted to hurt McGillicutty to soften him up for Kidd if he couldn't actually win. They worked stiff and it made this match feel extremely physical, as well it should.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2012, 11:29 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 4-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's comlete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_60083.shtml)

1 - TYSON KIDD vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Fast-paced technical wrestling to start things off. There is some really good work in here, as expected. Hunico shifts to a brawling style and goes into a unique submission to a cover, and Kidd manages to catapult himself over Hunico from a pin, perform a sunset flip, and transition to a Sharpshooter, but Hunico gets to the ropes before it's locked on. Hunico bails out. Kidd jaws at Camacho and Hunico ambushes him from behind. Kidd with a big monkey flip, then gets kind-of a monkey flip through the ropes to put Hunico ringside. Huracanrana from over the ropes and Hunico is down again. Kidd rolls Hunico in for a two count.

Hunico suckers Kidd in and sends him into the ringpost. Cover for two. Hunico with a nasty armbar and Kidd is howling in pain. Hunico blocks a sunset flip and counters with a leg drop.

Kidd fights out of a hold with a suplex, then sends Hunico into a turnbuckle face-first. Kidd with a flurry of kicks and a low dropkick for two. Camacho looks worried on the outside. Kidd then tricks Hunico into flying through the ropes, but Hunico lands on his feet, then kicks him from the apron. Kidd sends Hunico into the ring and hits the springboard elbow drop for a nearfall. Hunico transitions into a Tornado DDT into a suplex with a bridge cover for two.

Hunico on the attack, but Kidd counters a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker attempt with a small package for a nearfall. Kidd spends a moment kicking Camacho through the ropes (Camacho tried to trip him). On his way back to the center of the ring, Hunico catches him with a brainbuster of sorts for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 8:00. Slick, intense match. Watch the replay if you are a fan of fast-paced, well-executed action. The only drawback is that this is the second match of Hunico's that ended just like this, though.

2 - THE USOS vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Reks and Jey start the match, and Jey brings Reks into the corner and gets Jimmy involved. Reks sends Jimmy into the ropes and isolates him with Hawkins. The crowd starts a "Yes! Yes! Yes!" chant in the middle of Reks's offense. Jimmy and Reks both tag out, and Jey takes over on Hawkins. Jey with a beautiful flipping kick, it looks like. The action breaks down and both Usos hit Samoan Drops. Jimmy tags in and lands the Superfly Spash for the win. The crowd celebrates with another "Yes! Yes! Yes!" chant.

WINNER: The Usos in 4:30. Good match, but nothing I haven't seen from this match-up a few thousand times in the last few months on NXT and Superstars.

3 - R-TRUTH vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater is unimpressed by Truth showing off, and pretends to kick Little Jimmy, so Truth takes him down, then tends to Little Jimmy. The crowd is popping for Little Jimmy. Truth clears Slater from the ring and checks on Jimmy.

Slater sends Truth into a barricade out of the break. Truth powers out of a hold, but Slater puts him back down with a jumping kick. Jumping neckbreaker gets Slater two. Truth makes a comeback with lots of power and a bit of finesse. Truth then scores with the What's Up for the win. The referee raises R-Truth's hand and Little Jimmy's, too.

WINNER: R-Truth in 5:15. Lots of comedy in a match that didn't have the time or motivation to amount to much.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2012, 11:31 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 4-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_60095.shtml)

1 -- JEFF HARDY vs. KURT ANGLE

The match started with Hardy taking the offensive edge with multiple armdrags, and getting the better of Angle on the mat. Angle put an end to Hardy’s offense by raking his eyes. It was short-lived as Hardy quickly hit Angle with a head scissor takedown to the outside where he slammed Angle face first into the ring steps. Angle, who was now bleeding, caught Hardy with a kick on his way back into the ring. Once in the ring, Angle hit Hardy with a suplex for a two count. Angle looked down on a fallen Hardy as the show went to commercial break.

As the show came back from the break, Hardy was able to hit Angle with the Whisper in the Wind. He followed up with a series of clotheslines, and went for the Twist of Fate which Angle countered into multiple german suplexes for a two count. He went for the Angle Slam, but Hardy was able successfully counter with the Twist of Fate. Hardy went to the top rope for the swanton bomb, but was caught off by Angle with a belly-to-belly suplex off the top rope.

Angle put Hardy into the anklelock, but Hardy eventually broke out of it and took Angle down. Hardy tried to go for the Swanton again, but Angle grabbed on to the referee for cover. When Hardy made his way to the situation, Angle tried to hit him with a low blow, but Hardy had him scouted. Hardy once again went for the Twist of Fate, but Angle bowed out, and left the ring. The referee counted to ten for the count out victory for Hardy.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy via countout at 12:47. Well, that was strange. TNA continues to give away their pay-per-view product on free television. Oh well, for what it was both wrestlers put forth a good effort and gave audiences a compelling match.

2-- MICKIE JAMES vs. WINTER vs. TARA vs ANGELINA LOVE vs. MADISON RAYNE vs. VELVET SKY -- Knockouts challenge

Winter and Tara started the match with the action quickly escalating to Tara’s standing moonsault. Tara went for the pin, but every Knockout took exception to it and went into the ring to break it up. Love and James were tagged in as the crowd chanted for James. The two exchanged basic holds and shoulder tackles until James connected with a dropkick on Love. Love was able to hit a sidewalk slam for a two count, but James quickly recovered and took Love down. Sky used James to tag herself in and tried and battled Love a for a quick minute until Love tagged Rayne in. Tara used a blind tag on Sky to get herself into the match and hit a big sideslam for a two count on Rayne. Tara quickly tagged Sky back in, but Rayne was able to maintain an offensive edge against her.

All the Knockouts took turns hitting their finishers on each other, ending with Sky hitting James with In Yo Face for the win.

WINNER: Velvet Sky via pinfall at 7:00. That match was all over the place, but it was a good time. I have faith in Gail Kim’s ability in being able to carry Sky to a good match at Lockdown, but if Sky wins the title it’s her following reign I’m concerned about.

3 -- JAMES STORM vs. A.J. STYLES

The match started with some basic holds until Storm went for a superkick that Styles had scouted. Styles told Storm that he wouldn’t get him and took his turn at trying get on the offensive against Storm. Styles hit a textbook dropkick on Storm which sent him rolling to the outside. Storm blocked a kick from Styles and took him down with a headlock. Styles was able to regain the offensive edge, and eventually grounded Storm with a chinlock.

Storm broke out and missed another superkick, but was able to send Styles into corner and followed up with a kick from the outside. He was able to perform the Eye of the Storm on Styles, but his offense was quickly put to a halt as he was put into a figure four leglock. Storm tried to hit Styles with a clothesline, but missed and was hit with a Pele kick. Styles went for the back flip inverted DDT from the second rope, but missed, and Storm caught him with a superkick for the victory.

WINNER: James Storm via pinfall at 6:31. It looks like Storm is ready to go now after a few quick wins to cover up his injury. They had an enjoyable match, in fact, I enjoyed that match from Styles more than most of his matches with Kaz and Daniels over the past few months. That being said, if Styles wanted to help Storm get ready for his match at Lockdown couldn’t they have trained together outside of a match?

4 -- MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) vs. MEXICAN AMERICA (ANARQUIA & HERNANDEZ w/Rosita and Sarita)

Anarquia and Shelley started the match as the crowd chanted, “Welcome back.” Shelley stomped on Anarquia in the corner and then tagged Sabin in. After some offense, Anarquia tagged Hernandez in who tried to slow Sabin down, but to no avail. The Guns nailed rapid fire double team maneuvers on Hernandez until he eventually put the breaks on Shelley. His offense didn’t last long as the Guns made quick work of him and Anarquia.

Hernandez tried to hit Sabin with the Border Toss, but was thrown out of the ring and was caught with a suicide dive, but not before the Guns hit Anarquia with a pair of kicks in the corner. The Guns hit a double team maneuver. After the match, Sabin got on the microphone and said the Guns were coming for the TNA Tag Team Titles.

WINNERS: Motor City Machineguns via pinfall at 4:18. A fitting way to reintroduce the Guns. They didn’t give away a big match off the bat, but they let the Guns show off what they are made of in an exciting fashion. I love the idea of a Guns vs. Magnus & Joe match at Lockdown, but I wish they had more time to make a bigger deal out of it.

5 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. BOBBY ROODE

In the ring, Roode was able to put a halt to Anderson’s offense with a suplex and a pin attempt for a one count. Roode beat on Anderson in the corner with an Irish Whip and a back-rake for a two count. They traded punches in the ring until Anderson was able to hit a pair of clotheslines and elbows into a back body drop for a two count. Roode shoved Anderson into the referee taking him out in the process. Anderson hit the Pittsburgh Plunge, but the knocked out referee was not able to make the count. Roode went to the outside and grabbed a beer bottle from a fan in the audience. He smashed the bottle over Anderson’s head before the referee could see it, and scored the pin. Hogan and Storm made their way to the ring as Roode took a powder. Hogan got on the mic and said he that the decision was reversed, thus making Anderson the winner.

WINNER: Mr. Anderson via reverse decision at 4:55. That was what it was. Nothing spectacular, and seeing Hogan for the hundredth time is starting to reaffirm my fears behind Hogan playing an authoritative figure on television. He’s too chummy with the faces, he’s rambling on about TNA going to the next level, and most importantly he’s hogging way too much television time. All in all, I still enjoyed this edition of Impact more so than the ones TNA was producing a few weeks back. TNA would be wise to scale back on so much Hogan non-sense.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2012, 11:37 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-6-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_60112.shtml)

1 – DAVID OTUNGA & MARK HENRY vs. R-TRUTH – HANDICAP MATCH

Michael Cole said he heard Booker has been summoned to Connecticut for a closed-door meeting with WWE brass, hinting that it’s part of his punishment for being on Team Teddy at Wrestlemania. Quick cover on Otunga for a near-fall. Lie Detector knocked Otunga over for another two-count. Otunga retreated to his corner and tagged Henry. Truth ran into a big boot from Henry and Henry got his foot a lot higher than I expected. They showed “AW” Abraham Washington being shown watching on a monitor backstage. Before long, Henry had Truth up for the World’s Strongest Slam and delivered. Otunga asked for a tag saying, “I can get him now.” Henry tagged Otunga but said he owes him. Otunga covered for the win.

WINNERS: Henry and Otunga, at 2:03. I wonder if this hints at a possible face turn for Henry. Match was just a way to get heat on Otunga.

2 – KANE vs. RANDY ORTON – NO DISQUALIFICATION MATCH

The two went toe-to-toe to begin the match, then Orton was clotheslined over the top rope and to ringside. They continued brawling there, with Orton being sent into the announce table. Orton one-upped Kane, sending his opponent into and over the desk. Kane halted Orton’s momentum and sent him face-first into the ring stairs. Uppercut by Kane to Orton. The men headed up the aisle and t to the ramp. Orton and Kane exchanged rights and they proceeded to the side of the ramp. Kane lifted Orton onto the stage, but Orton fought back. Kane teetered on the edge of the stage, but caught Orton in a choke. It appeared he was going to chokeslam Orton off the stage, but couldn’t do so. Orton went for an RKO but was shoved off, almost off the stage. He managed to keep his balance, but Kane sent him face-first into the steel. Both men were trying to restore their bearings as they went to break at 3:35.

Back at 7:05 of the match with Kane still in control and both men back in the ring. Kane removed the turnbuckle pad from the corner. Orton stopped Kane from driving him head-first into the exposed steel, but he couldn’t capitalize. A near-fall was registered by the Big Red Machine at 8:28. Kane climbed to the top rope, but Orton crotched him. Orton tried to clotheslines, but Kane didn’t budge. A dropkick took him off his feet. Powerslam followed. Kane rolled to the apron where Orton set up for the DDT. Kane avoided it and brought Orton down throat-first across the top rope. Outside the ring, Orton was again able to gain the advantage, whipping Kane into the barricade then clotheslining his foe over it. A series of counters led to Kane landing a big boot right to the kisser of Orton. Kane tossed a chair into the ring and rummaged under the ring for another chair. Actually, several. Orton was tossed into the ring, but he recovered enough to nail Kane with the edge of the chair a few times. Rope-assisted DDT followed, onto a chair, at 12:05. Orton was shook up upon impact too and was slow to go for the cover. He only got a one-count. Kane avoided the RKO and brought a chair down across Orton’s back. Cover got two at 13:06. Orton slipped out the back on a chokeslam and shoved Kane into the exposed steel corner. RKO, pinfall.

WINNER: Orton, at 13:52. Wrestling rule #152: If the turnbuckle pad is taken off and isn’t utilized immediately, it will invariably come into play later and almost always lead to the finish.

3 – BARRY STEVENS vs. RYBACK

Oh, apparently the folks watching backstage (The Usos, Kaitlyn, among others) were buzzing about the Ryback debut. Ryback is, of course, the former Skip Sheffield. They showed them backstage again, and Alicia Fox, Camacho, and Hunico were also there. Powerslam by Ryback, who was acknowledged as having been on NXT. Muscle Buster-like slam by Ryback put Stevens away easily.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:09. Impressive squash from Ryback.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. HEATH SLATER

Big Show again showed the video he showed on Raw, a send-up of the videos Cody used to get under Show’s skin. Show pounded Slater with body shots then a headbutt. Hard chop to the chest by Show. Another hard chop, then Show just ran through Slater as both men came off the ropes. Chokeslam ended things.

WINNER: Show, at 1:14. I figured the way things went on Raw, with Show and the video of Rhodes, would’ve been a great way to end this feud. But I guess it isn’t over.

5 – “THE GLAMAZON” BETH PHOENIX vs. NIKKI BELLA

After Nikki came to the ring, Kelly Kelly’s music played and she walked out. Beth grabbed Nikki by the arm and pulled her in for a clothesline. She showed no mercy toward Nikki, choking her with her knee near the ropes. Beth kept an eye on Kelly, who stood in the aisle. More hammering away on Nikki in the corner by Beth. Beth tried to grab at Kelly, who made her way to ringside. Beth missed a charge and went shoulder-first into the ring post. Face-buster by Nikki for the win.

WINNER: Nikki Bell, at 1:01. Looks like we’re setting up for another round of Beth vs. Kelly.

6 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SHEAMUS

Some quick exchanges early and Sheamus went to the top. His shoulder tackle didn’t connect but he rolled through and hit Del Rio with a forward roll with Del Rio on his shoulders. Del Rio was able to create separation and brought the arm of Sheamus down across the top rope. Back in the ring, Del Rio continued working over the arm of Sheamus. Sheamus missed a Brogue Kick and Del Rio rolled to ringside to regroup with Rodriguez at 2:48.

Back to action at 6:42. Sheamus nailed Del Rio with a shoulder tackle, propelling himself over the top rope to do so. Sheamus brought his forearms down hard across the chest of Del Rio. Del Rio held onto the ropes when Sheamus tried to bring him toward the middle of the ring, then low-bridged Sehamus on a charge. When Sheamus got onto the apron, Del Rio gave him an enziguiri to send Sheamus back to ringside. Del Rio tossed Sheamus into the ring steps. Back in the ring, a lateral press by Del Rio got only one. Del Rio continued to punish the arm of his opponent. Del Rio got caught charging at Sheamus, and he paid with a back-breaker. Both men were down at 10:11 of the match. Sheamus made his comeback and powerslammed Del Rio. Rodriguez distracted Sheamus by standing on the bottom rope, so Sheamus kicked the rope and Rodriguez flew into the ring. A chair was brought in by Del Rio and Sheamus picked it up. The ref turned around from getting Rodriguez out of the ring in time to see Sheamus with the chair. Del Rio sold that Sheamus hit him with it and the ref DQ’d Sheamus.

WINNER: Del Rio, via DQ, at 11:31. I don’t like how they vacillate between “if the ref didn’t see it, it didn’t happen” and what we just saw.

After the match, Rodriguez happily proclaimed Del Rio the winner. Sheamus Brogue Kicked the referee in anger. Sheamus seethed as he started at Del Rio and Rodriguez, who were in the aisle, as the show went off the air.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 10 2012, 11:39 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60192.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO & BRODUS CLAY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

The announcers continued to discuss Cena-Lesnar as Lawler noted Cena might have some missing teeth. In the ring, Ziggler and Santino started things off before the two big men squared off in the ring. Swagger took Clay off his feet, then chopblocked him. Lawler said it may be the first time Clay has been grounded, ignoring Heath Slater accomplishing that feat twice last month. They cut to break with Swagger controlling Clay.

Back live, Ziggler was working over Santino after tags were made during the commercial. The announcers lost control of the match when Lawler made a "reptile dysfunction" joke after a series of dinosaur-related jokes during the match. The heels continued to work over Santino before the crowd tried to rally behind Clay. Santino then made a tag to Clay as Lawler ignored the tag, continuing to talk to himself about nothing in particular. Clay then finished off Ziggler with a big splash and it was good for the win. Post-match, Clay, Santino, and the Funkettes celebrated via dance.

WINNERS: Clay & Santino at 7:56. Nothing much here. Swagger & Ziggler, especially Swagger, are stuck, and the Clay & Santino duo seems to be nothing more than a comedy act. Plus, an awful, minor-league call of this match.

2 -- CODY RHODES vs. R-TRUTH

Cole noted Rhodes's dad, Dusty Rhodes, will be on the "Blast from the Past" Smackdown tomorrow night. Rhodes scored with the Alabama Slam on Truth 40 seconds into the match, then Big Show walked out on-stage in a suit with the IC Title slung over his shoulder like a toy replica belt. Show rolled footage from last week's Raw when Show embarrassed Rhodes, costing Rhodes a match against Kofi Kingston. After a double-flashback to Mania and last week's Raw, they returned live with Truth hitting the Little Jimmy on Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Truth at 1:39.

3 -- LORD TENSAI vs. YOSHI TATSU

Tensai dominated as the bored crowd lightly chanted, "Albert." Yoshi found himself nearly-unconscious before Tensai delivered a sit-out powerbomb. Like last week, the ref pulled off Tensai so he could check on the opponent. Ref Charles Robinson put a stop to the match, noting Yoshi was KO'ed. Post-match: Tensai spewed mist into the air before applying the Claw. Tensai turned the Claw into a diving Claw bomb of sorts as the crowd lightly booed.

WINNER: Tensai via ref stoppage at 2:03. One of those situations where it's not clear if the crowd doesn't care because of the character or the first two opponents. The way to know is putting Tensai in the ring with a top star and seeing what the response is.

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. MARK HENRY -- WWE Title match

Back live, the participants were assembled in the ring as Cole noted this is for the "most prestigious championship in sports entertainment." So, they're battling for best halftime show performance? Once the bell sounded, Punk tried to aggressively attack Henry, but Henry knocked him to the outside. On the outside, Punk retrieved a TV monitor and bashed it into Henry. This caused a DQ, giving Henry the win, but Punk retained the title.

WINNER: Henry via DQ at 0:47; Punk retained the WWE Title.

5 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. ZACK RYDER

Del Rio dominated early on before Ryder landed knees in the corner. Ryder then hit the Broski Boot. He wanted the Rough Ryder, but Del Rio launched him into the corner turnbuckle. Del Rio followed right up with his rolling cross-arm breaker finisher and it was good for a submission win. Post-match: They focused on Ryder more than Del Rio by replaying the Broski Boot and showing Ryder standing tall ringside while selling his injured arm.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 1:28.

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. DAVID OTUNGA (w/John Laurinaitis)

Once the bell sounded, Cena leaned on the top rope to tell Laurinaitis to watch the match and stop texting. Cena smiled at standard mixed crowd chants before locking up with Otunga. Cena then mock wiped Otunga's baby oil off his chest before they locked up again. The crowd fired up with dueling chants again before Otunga delivered rapid-fire kicks in the corner. Cena fired back with hard strikes of his own, but Otunga cut him off and went to work on Cena.

Otunga paused to flex, drawing questions from Cole on commentary. Otunga fired off a shoulder tackle for a two count as the vocal males chanted for Fruity Pebbles. Otunga continued to cut off Cena before posing some more. The announcers questioned Otunga, who then walked into right hand strikes from Cena. Cena hit the sit-out slam, then set up for the Five Knuckle Shuffle and connected. Cena gave Laurinaitis some extra dirt off his shoulder, then told him to watch as he hoisted up Otunga for the Attitude Adjustment. Cena connected, smiled toward Laurinaitis, then slapped on the STF. Otunga fought for two seconds before tapping out, irking Laurinaitis.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 5:07. Otunga has improved leaps & bounds with his timing and presence in the ring. Solid effort before taking the loss to keep Cena strong headed to Extreme Rules.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 12 2012, 02:20 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-10-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_60235.shtml) Condensed to mostly in-ring results with my usual witty commentary on the non-ring stuff, natch!

- Mean Gene introduces Sheamus, who apologized for his actions last week but then John Laurinaitis comes out, makes him do the whole thing again, puts him on probation and fines him $500,000. Oh yeah...Sheamus has a match later with Bryan and Del Rio with Mean Gene as his partner.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. MARK HENRY

The bell sounded and Booker demanded a legal explanation for Sheamus's permanent probation. Where's Pat McNeill on the call when you need him? Henry landed an early powerslam before they cut to a shot of Cowboy Bob watching intently on a backstage monitor. Orton continued to sell the effects before the cut to break only one minute into the match.

Back live, Henry was wearing down Orton center-ring. The announcers then re-visited Booker's claim that Henry will capture the WWE Title next week against Punk, continuing to stack the deck against Punk. Back to this match, Henry nailed a big splash after bouncing off the ropes, but it was only good for a two count. Henry followed with a big corner splash, then another, as the announcers remained confused on what the others were saying. Henry then went for another big splash, but missed, as Booker noted he had a dream that Cole died.

Orton made a comeback with clotheslines, but he couldn't take Henry off his feet. A sweeping DDT took down Henry, though, and Orton scored a two count on a pin attempt. Orton then wanted the second-rope DDT, but Henry positioned him for the World's Strongest Slam. Orton swung out, though, teased the RKO, but Henry tossed him aside through the ropes to the floor. Nice exchange. On the floor, Orton rammed Henry into the ringpost and landed an uppercut before slipping back into the ring.

Suddenly, Kane's pyro shot off. Kane appeared on the Titantron and taunted Orton that he told him he needed to beat him at WrestleMania to become whole again. And, he did that. But, last week, Orton proved he can be every bit as savage as he can be. Kane told Orton it would be a shame if this ended like this. After all, he's having so much fun right now. Kane stooped down and revealed a KO'ed Cowboy Bob. He said it's the kind of fun the whole family can enjoy. Orton sprinted out of the ring, leaving the ring empty. No decision on this match thus far. They cut backstage to show Orton looking for Bob before finally finding him in a hallway. Kane ambushed Orton, though, and popped him in the mid-section with a lead pipe. Kane said he's a sucker for family reunions. Orton sold the effects next to a KO'ed Bob before Smackdown cut to break.

WINNER: No Decision announced when SD cut to break at 11:58. You knew there was no way there would be a finish when Henry can't lose before next week's Raw title match and when Orton needs to keep momentum as one of Smackdown's top stars, so WWE took the too-often-as-of-late lazy route of just not having a decision.

- Legends watching squash match:

2 -- RYBACK vs. BENNY CAMER

Ryback easily disposed of Camer, prompting laughter from Atlas backstage watching on a monitor. They went to a replay of Ryback's high-impact offense, finishing off Camer with a fallaway slam out of the Torture Rack position.

WINNER: Ryback at 0:34.

3 -- THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. HEATH SLATER & TYSON KIDD (w/Jimmy Hart)

As the match unfolded, the announcers discussed Foley's previous Smackdown announcing work with Jim Ross as Hart screamed and shouted into his megaphone. It was essentially a five-man announce booth early on. Foley had enough of Hart's megaphone-use, so he pulled out Mr. Socko to chase away Hart. The distraction allowed the Usos to splash Hart with a Superfly Splash for the pin and the win. Post-match: Foley entered the ring and dropped Hart with Mr. Socko. Foley then shouted into the megaphone as Cole sarcastically said that went over well.

WINNERS: Usos at 2:37.

- Piper's Pit with Daniel Bryan and A.J. Pretty good segment since you can't go wrong with the Hot Rod!

4 -- BELLA TWINS & DREW MCINTYRE vs. GREAT KHALI & NATALYA & ALICIA FOX

The six men and women were assembled in the ring back from break. Drew cockily went after Khali, but then tagged out of the ring. He said he's better than this, then bailed from the ring and said he's better than this joke of a match. Suddenly, A. Fox executed a suplex on Bella #1 for the pin and the win. Afterward, the announcers stressed Khali's effort in the match as the faces celebrated on the way out of the ring.

When the face trio reached the stage, Mae Young's music played to bring out Young. Young delivered a kick to Khali's knee, dropping Khali down to one knee. Mae then planted a kiss on Khali after chopping him down to size. Everyone danced to conclude the come-down segment.

WINNERS: Fox & Natalya & Khali at 0:56.

5 -- JIM DUGGAN vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Duggan quickly jabbed Hunico in the face to knock him to the outside. Suddenly, Duggan waved to the back, bringing out Sgt. Slaughter to back him up. Ringside, Slaughter neutralized Camacho as the ref continued to apply a ten count. Hunico then slipped back into the ring and Duggan popped him with the 2x4, drawing a DQ. Post-match: Slaughter slapped on a Cobra Clutch as the crowd chanted, "U-S-A." Duggan and Slaughter then celebrated their loss in the ring. Cue up Cole's old jokes to wrap up the bit.

WINNER: Hunico via DQ at 1:01.

- Another embarrassing moment for Cody Rhodes, this time it's not only The Big Show but his father, the American Dream Dusty Rhodes. If they really wanted to pile on the butthurt on Cody, Goldust should've made an appearance.

6 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & "MEAN" GENE OKERLUND vs. DANIEL BRYAN & ALBERTO DEL RIO

The heels quickly ganged up on Sheamus, with Bryan delivering rapid-fire kick strikes to the body before Sheamus cut him off with a sledgehammer. Sheamus then dumped Del Rio over the top rope to the floor, but missed with a Brogue Kick on Bryan. Bryan then dropkicked Sheamus to the outside, where Del Rio smashed Sheamus with a running kick. Cole told Okerlund to start getting ready because Sheamus is going to need to make a tag. Suddenly, the heels cornered Okerlund in the ring, then Ricardo entered the ring to taunt Okerlund.

Suddenly, Roddy Piper's music played to bring out all of the scheduled Legends for the show. Cole wondered who opened up the door to the retirement home. All of the Legends assembled around the ring as Piper confronted D-Bryan on the ring apron. Piper told Bryan to turn around, then Bryan ate a Brogue Kick from Sheamus. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

WINNERS: Sheamus & Okerlund at 3:24.

Post-match: Fink ran to the ring, drawing comments from Cole, then the able-bodied Legends took turns giving Ricardo finishers. Cole said they must be close to being over because there's a curfew at the retirement home. Mathews called it a feel-good moment to close the show. After a replay of the finish, Mathews noted Bryan vs. Sheamus for the World Title occurs in a few weeks at Extreme Rules. The Legends and Sheamus continued to celebrate in the ring before Michael Cole entered the ring. Cole said he knows they need to head back to the retirement home, but he thinks they should do a photo-op. The Legends took exception and gave Cole noogies as the crowd sat silently. Cole was then knocked out by Patterson, and Sheamus kicked the trash out of the ring, leaving Cole face-first on the floor. (Will Sheamus be fined for lightly pushing Cole out of the ring?) The Legends and Sheamus got their curtain call in the ring to close the show right at the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2012, 01:14 pm
TNA Lockdown PPV Results: 4-15-12 (next several posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_60411.shtml)

1 -- TEAM G. BISCHOFF (GARETT BISCHOFF & A.J. STYLES & ROB VAN DAM & MR. ANDERSON & X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES) vs. TEAM E. BISCHOFF (ERIC BISCHOFF & GUNNER & BULLY RAY & KAZARIAN & CHRISTOPHER DANIELS) -- Lethal Lockdown cage match -- Losing Bischoff leaves TNA

Gunner dominated Garett Bischoff early on, fulfilling Garett's prophecy that he would take a butt-kicking tonight. Further capturing the point, Bully Ray was the second heel out to join Gunner in dismantling Garett. Big heat on Ray, getting the crowd involved in the proceedings. As the countdown clock ticked down for the next entrant, the crowd chanted Aries's name. After a pause, Aries's music played to bring out the X Division champ. Aries went right after Bully Ray with a rapid-fire attack on his TV foe. Ray then accidentally clotheslined Gunner before Aries continued the attack on Ray. But, Aries ran into a big boot from Ray to cut him off.

Next out for the heels was Kazarian to give the heels a three-on-two advantage. Kazarian was sporting very short hair, which the announcers drew attention to. Who knew it would take six years for Kaz to heed the recommendation he cut his hair? The heels continued to dominate Garett and Aries before the countdown clock expired to bring out A.J. Styles to a strong reaction. Styles, sporting blue biker gloves, cleaned house before turning his back to pose for the crowd, only to turn around and take a knock-down chest bump from Ray.

The countdown clock expired at 11:11 to bring out Christopher Daniels for the heels. Daniels joined Ray, Kaz, and Gunner going after the three faces, including Bischoff, who had not been on his feet in several minutes. Gunner then brought GB to his feet and proceeded to throw him into the cage wall. Gunner again brought GB to his feet for Ray to deliver a double axehandle smash from the second rope. The heels stood around waiting for the next entrant, which was Mr. Anderson to make it four-on-four. Anderson seemed a bit off trying to get in his offense on the heels before Ray and Styles took center-stage trading blows. Styles, appearing to be agitated, then lifted Ray into the air and dropped him to the mat with a takedown. Ray no-sold, though, and punched Styles before the heels double-team-suplexed Styles.

Out last for the heels was Eric Bischoff to boos. Bischoff mean-mugged on the way to the ring before entering the cage to grab his son, allowing the heels to tee off on Garett's chest. Eric high-fived the heels as the crowd chanted for RVD, but they were 45 seconds too early. Eric then trash-talked his son before the countdown clock expired at 17:15 to bring out RVD as the last entrant in the match. RVD got his shine cleaning house with signature offense on the heels as Eric Bischoff tried to hide in the corner.

After RVD got in his offense, Anderson reached toward the ceiling a la calling for the mic drop. Instead, the top of the steel cage slowly came down. The usual assortment of guitars, kendo sticks, trash cans, and hockey sticks were attached to the Lethal Lockdown lid. Styles quickly grabbed a hockey stick and smashed Ray with it several times. Ray then took a trashcan lid shot to the head as Garett Bischoff continued to sell on the mat. Meanwhile, Eric Bischoff continued to cower in the corner. The director missed some action, focusing on Aries stomping a mudhole in Ray. Meanwhile, Garett continued to look asleep in the corner.

Styles and RVD then brought Eric out of the corner into the ring. Aries delivered a bodyslam, then RVD went to the corner for a Five-Star Frogsplash, which Gunner blocked by fighting through the faces to crotch RVD. Ray, recovered from multiple attacks, then helped the heels regain the advantage by lawn-darting Aries into the side of the Lockdown cage. Ray tried a top rope move, but Aries crotched him and dropped Ray onto Daniels. Meanwhile, Eric was back in the corner and Garett remained out of the picture.

At 23:00, Styles and Kaz fought to the top of the cage, and Styles dropped Kaz to the mat. Styles then swung his body into position for a diving elbow smash. RVD followed right up with a Five-Star Frogsplash on Kazarian, but Ray prevented a pin attempt. Daniels then scooped up a lifeless Garett Bischoff to feed to Eric, who landed Kendo stick shots to Garett's back. "I told you!" Eric shouted at Garett. Apparently everyone else was KO'ed, as Eric remained in the spotlight for a while. Suddenly, Garett got up with Jeff Jarrett guitar in-hand and popped it over Eric's head. Garett pinned Eric for the win.

Post-match: The faces suddenly came to life and helped Garett celebrate the win as the announcers noted Eric Bischoff is gone from TNA and can no longer use his last name. The announcers also claimed Garett earned respect tonight, which is despite Garett spending the majority of the match face-down on the mat. After a replay of the high points, they showed Garett confidently walking to the back as the heels helped Eric out of the cage.

WINNERS: Team Garett Bischoff at 26:03. This had its moments, but boiled down to a vehicle for mid-card and upper-mid-card stars to yield to Garett Bischoff. Also, on the near-ten-year-anniversary show, the finish was a reminder that TNA is a vehicle to get over Jeff Jarrett with the guitar coming into play for the finish, even if they are in Nashville, where the guitar is synonymous with the city. (**1/2)

2 -- TNA tag champions SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS vs. MOTOR CITY MACHINEGUNS (ALEX SHELLEY & CHRIS SABIN) -- TNA Tag Title match -- steel cage match

Very methodical pace during the first seven minutes, with the champs playing heel and dominating the action while the crowd looked for a reason to get involved. Sabin eventually broke free from Joe and tagged in Shelley as Magnus tagged in for the champs. Shelley and Magnus battled before Magnus blocked Sliced Bread #2. TNA went to a random shot of one lone fan in the arena chanting behind the announce desk, but the rest of the crowd did not respond. Back in the ring, Joe broke up a pin attempt by Shelley as all four men became involved in the ring. Suddenly, Joe grappled Sabin with the rear-naked choke. It looked like they were resting as Magnus tried to hold off Shelley in the background.

The action broke down again as this turned into a Texas Tornado-style match with the ref not trying to take control of the action. The tag champs then cut off another Guns finishing attempt before they hit their double-team combo for the pin and the win. Afterward, Joe confidently walked out of the cage with his Tag Title belt as Magnus followed closely behind.

WINNER: Joe & Magnus at 11:18. A big letdown match that never moved out of first gear. Just oddly-booked with the Guns having very little offense compared to the champs, the crowd dead throughout (was this whole crowd comp'ed?), and an anti-climatic finish. Not exactly a strong PPV comeback for the Guns. (*1/4)

3 -- TV champion DEVON vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) -- TNA TV Title match

Robbie E. took advantage of Terry's pre-match involvement to take control of the match from the outset. The lone vocal fan in the arena from the previous match was back for this match, trying to get a "Devon" chant started. Suddenly, Devon dropped Robbie with a spinebuster and scored the pin for the win. Post-match: Rob Terry hit the ring and jumped Devon from behind. There was a light chorus of boos before the crowd became quiet again as Terry dismantled Devon. The heels then stood over Devon before TNA played Robbie's music on the way out.

WINNER: Devon at 3:24 to retain the TV Title. Another anti-climatic finish after another weak title match. This crowd is making the Impact Zone sound like Chicago for Money in the Bank 2011. (1/2*)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2012, 01:19 pm
4 -- Knockouts champion GAIL KIM (w/Madison Rayne) vs. VELVET SKY -- Knockouts Title match -- steel cage match
 
Velvet Sky was out first for the next title match. She spent extra time playing to the crowd to try to get them involved. Gail Kim then came to the cage with on-again/off-again friend Madison Rayne and the match quickly started. Gail controlled the action, then Velvet made a comeback. As Velvet was prepared to win, Madison distracted Velvet from the outside. Velvet then tried to roll up Gail, but Gail rolled through into a quick pin to retain the title. After the finish, Gail and Madison quickly scampered away from ringside to avoid Velvet's wrath. TNA stayed with Velvet for a while selling frustration over the loss.
 
WINNER: Gail at 7:25 to retain the Knockouts Title.

5 -- MATT MORGAN vs. CRIMSON -- steel cage match
 
Crimson tried to run over, around, and out of the cage early on. Morgan then cut off Crimson with a clothesline. He had a chance to leave the cage and take the win, but going back to the pre-match promo where Morgan said this is about revenge, he opted to return to the ring. Morgan landed some offense, but Crimson clipped him from behind to begin targeting the left knee. Crimson wore down Morgan before Morgan made his comeback at 5:30.
 
Morgan played to the hard camera side of the crowd before delivering a back suplex that dropped Crimson on his neck. Morgan followed with a corner splash before measuring Crimson for a flying splash that sandwiched Crimson in-between the ropes and steel cage. Morgan then missed with a corner boot and Crimson tried to climb out of the cage, but Morgan pulled him down to the top turnbuckle. The two big men towered in the corner before Crimson dropped Morgan and Morgan landed across the ropes. Morgan sold a knee injury as he remained hung up in the ropes. Crimson then blew Morgan a kiss and climbed over the top rope down to the floor for the win. Afterward, Morgan sold the knee injury as Crimson taunted him on the way out.
 
WINNER: Crimson at 7:59. Perhaps this is the end of the feud, even though Morgan hasn't gotten his revenge. It's just not a good match-up for either man, and doesn't help their progression. (*1/2)

6 -- JEFF HARDY vs. KURT ANGLE -- steel cage match
 
A video package introduced this match-up before a much-heavier Kurt Angle came out to the ring, followed by Hardy. Apparently the KO Tag Title match has the buffer spot before the main event. Hardy delivered rapid-fire offense before Angle cut him off. The announcers focused on Angle's recent injuries that cut off his Olympics run before Angle and Hardy collided in the corner on a Hardy dropkick attempt. Both men took their time selling the effects before resetting with Hardy in control. Angle then flung Hardy into the side of the cage before Angle went on the attack. The crowd sustained noise for the first time all night with chants for Hardy and boos for Angle as Angle methodically picked Hardy apart.
 
The announcers noted it appears Hardy is bleeding, but they couldn't tell with Hardy wearing so much facepaint. Blood was then visible on the mat after Hardy took a bump. Angle continued to slowly work over Hardy, but Hardy made a comeback with Whisper in the Wind for a two count. Hardy then nailed a Twist of Fate into a Stone Cold Stunner before climbing up top. Hardy took too long, though, and Angle scampered up top to deliver an Angle Slam from the top turnbuckle.
 
At 10:00, Hardy tried to climb out of the cage, but Angle cut him off. Hardy flung Angle away, though, and swung his body into a flying Vader Bomb of sorts for a two count. After some of the crowd evaluated the performance via chant, Hardy teased leaving the cage, but Angle applied the Anklelock, only to have Hardy counter with an Anklelock. Angle escaped, though, but took a Twist of Fate. Hardy then went up top and delivered a Swanton Bomb center-ring. Hardy wanted another Bomb, and he connected from the opposite corner. Hardy made a cover, but Angle kicked out again.
 
The match reset with Angle calling for time-out, which lured Hardy into his trap for a blow into the cage wall and Angle Slam for a two count. Angle had enough and dropped the straps before getting into his stance. Angle wanted another Angle Slam, but Hardy escaped and hit an Angle Slam of his own. Hardy then ripped off his shirt and climbed up top again. It wasn't good enough for Hardy from the top turnbuckle, so Hardy went to the top of the steel cage. Hardy posed as the announcers worried about Hardy, then came off the top with a Super Swanton Bomb. He made an immediate cover for the pin and the win.
 
After the match, Hardy took a victory lap while Angle sold in the ring. Hardy eventually finished his victory lap before Angle was shown being helped out of the ring selling the effects of the finish and his hamstring injury.
 
WINNER: Hardy at 14:51. The first match of the night that felt PPV-worthy, and an excellent match at that. Both men's health was a concern coming in and Angle showed up to Lockdown out-of-shape, but they worked relatively smart to make the most of their 15 minutes without going over-board. Also, the lesson of tonight's PPV so far is that Hardy and Angle seem like the only full-time wrestlers who are over in this company at a mainstream level. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2012, 01:22 pm
7 -- Knockouts tag champions ERIC YOUNG & ODB vs. ROSITA & SARITA -- KO Tag Title match -- steel cage match
 
ODB and EY took control early on with a quick-strike attack, but the challengers cut off ODB and began wearing her down. Sarita and Rosita then tried flirting with EY, which prompted ODB to chug the liquid in her signature flask. This led to ODB scoring a pin to retain the titles.
 
WINNERS: ODB & EY at 4:30 to retain the KO Tag Titles. Basic buffer match to try to energize the crowd, but not tax the audience before the main event.

8 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. "COWBOY" JAMES STORM -- TNA World Title match -- steel cage match
 
The announcers talked dejectedly about the match as Roode continued to smash Storm and Storm continued to bleed. "Fight, you p-----," Roode shouted at Storm, unbleeped. Moments later, Storm slowly stood up and no-sold Roode's attack before landing right hands, only to have Roode cut him off and score a two count. Roode then slowed things down and arrogantly walked around the ring before landing chops and punches in the corner. Roode continued to slow things down before taunting Storm that he never needed nor wanted him as a tag partner.
 
Once again, Storm stood up and no-sold the attack. Storm delivered rapid-fire strikes, punches, and kicks before putting his boot on Roode's throat. Storm followed with a back body drop before TNA cut to a shot of Storm's wife clapping. Back in the ring, Storm teased the Eye of the Storm, but Roode slipped out. No matter, as Storm followed with a catapult into the cage. But, he couldn't capitalize and a now-bleeding Roode delivered a slam for a two count. Roode sucked air as he pulled himself up to his feet with blood flowing from his forehead. Storm then caught him with a backstabber, but it was only good for a two count.
 
At 10:00, Roode tried recovering near the cage, but Storm scraped his forehead across the wall. Storm was slow to follow up, allowing Roode to back body drop Storm into the cage wall. After an escape tease, Roode grabbed Storm and slapped on an armbar into a crossface center-ring. Storm faded as Roode told him to quit, but Storm rolled towards the ropes for a break. The fight moved to the top turnbuckle, where Roode teasing climbing out of the cage, but Storm cut him off. Storm then nailed a flying codebreaker from the second rope. He wanted the Last Call Superkick, but Roode pulled ref Brian Hebner in the way and Brian took the Superkick.
 
After the ref bump, Roode opened the cage door and could have walked out of the cage, but asked ref Earl Hebner (who was in charge of the cage door) to give him the six-pack of beer. Roode smashed a beer bottle over Storm's head, then called for Earl to enter the ring. Roode made a cover, but Storm kicked out before three. Roode sold that he was stunned by the nearfall, then walked right into the Last Call from Storm. Roode rolled away, though, and Storm couldn't make a cover. Storm then went for another Superkick, connected, and Roode fell through the cage door to the outside, landing on the ground. So, Roode wins to retain the World Title.
 
Post-match: Roode remained KO'ed on the floor before the ref placed the title belt across Roode's stomach. Storm, selling near-tears in the cage, bent down and said he's sorry, apparently aiming the message to his deceased family members. Storm then left the cage, grabbed the title belt draped across Roode's stomach, and spit down at Roode. (In the background, Brooke Hogan was trying to get her TV time in classic Hogan Family fashion.) Storm then chucked the title belt away, flipped off Hebner, and hopped over the guardrail. Storm hugged apparently his mom as his wife stood in the background applauding. They cut back to Roode receiving medical attention on the floor to sell the imagery of Storm being the uncrowned winner. TNA then signed off nine minutes before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Roode at 19:10 to retain the TNA World Title. This didn't quite have the Hardy-Angle heat, but felt pretty close to a TNA PPV main event. The match never reached its climax, though, with a Bound for Glory finish of the babyface challenger not completing his journey and TNA ending the PPV on a downer note yet again. Roode looked very strong as a heel champion, but this slow progression of his heel champion persona on the monthly PPVs is not worth shelling out $35 for each month. (**3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 16 2012, 02:02 pm
I haven't been able to post any of this past week's results from WWE, TNA and EVOLVE's iPPV so to get the latest results plus an archive of the past 8 years worth, go to Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread- Results and news! (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33173) Hopefully I'll keep up this week. Sorry for any problems. Thank you.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 18 2012, 12:34 am
WWE RAW Results: 4-16-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60454.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. MARK HENRY -- WWE Title match -- No DQ, No Count-out match

Punk tried to swipe at Henry with kicks early on, but Henry dodged Punk and went on the attack. Another loud chant for Punk, who tried using his quickness to avoid Henry, but walked into a lift-up slam. Henry knocked Punk to the outside, and the match appeared to be moving to the floor. Except, Punk scurried back into the ring, then flew through the ropes with a suicide splash. Henry was unaffected, though, as he whipped Punk into the ringpost moments later. Henry then tried choking the life out of Punk inside the ringpost and ring apron. Henry took too long following up, though, and ate boots to the face. Punk then hopped on the guardrail, ran the rail, and delivered a flying bulldog on the floor.

Punk spent the next few moments trying to drag Henry into the ring, but Henry rammed Punk back-first into the ring apron. Punk came back with kicks to the back that generated "Yes!" chants with each successful kick. Then, Punk tried following up with a seated splash, but Henry caught Punk in mid-air and absolutely smashed Punk into the guardrail like a ragdoll. They cut to break at 4:30 with Henry in control after a strong back-and-forth, see-saw start to the match.

Back from break, Henry was wearing down Punk inside the ring. Punk tried fighting back with kick strikes, but Henry ran him over with a chest block. Henry then stepped on Punk's throat before doing some trash-talking to no one in particular. Again, Punk with a comeback, then he grabbed a chair from ringside and put two shots to the stomach for a two count. Punk measured Henry for another shot, but Henry back-kicked Punk to cut off the champ again. Henry scooped up the chair, then popped Punk across the back with the weapon. Henry took his time following up, allowing for another comeback. Punk got the "Yes!" chants going, but then ran into another clothesline from Henry, cutting off Punk.

Henry selected a slow song on the dance floor by applying a standing bear hug mid-ring. Punk tried to fight out with rapid-fire elbow strikes, then he chopped down Henry at the knee. Punk followed with a leaning DDT, but Henry escaped a pin at two. Punk tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Henry caught him in mid-air. Punk escaped, then kicked Henry in the head. Punk followed with a corner knee strike, but Henry flung Punk away on a running bulldog attempt. Henry then went for a corner attack, but ate the steel chair wedged in the corner.

The chair fell to the outside and Punk scooped up the chair ringside. Punk then slowly made his way up top as Henry remained KO'ed in the corner of the ring. Punk reached the top turnbuckle with chair in-hand and the crowd reacted as Punk delivered a flying Macho Man chair elbow smash. Punk paused to sell the effects, then made the cover for a three count.

WINNER: Punk at 13:13 to retain the WWE Title. Solid TV match with a nice back-and-forth pace. The match appeared to be edited and chopped for the TV broadcast, which was one drawback to the action. (**1/2)

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. DAVID OTUNGA -- U.S. Title match

Basic action to start the action before Santino tried getting the "Yes!" chants with rapid-fire jabs, before Otunga kicked Santino in the face. Moments later, Otunga had a pin and appeared to score a three count, but the ref realized at the last second that Santino's foot was on the bottom rope. Ref Charles Robinson waved off his three count, Otunga argued, and Santino made his comeback, culminating with a Cobra shot to the jaw for the pin. Post-match, Cole complained about Otunga's loss as Santino celebrated his win in the ring.

WINNER: Santino at 2:01 to retain the U.S. Title. Basic house show match giving Otunga an "out" and setting up the follow-through.

3 -- KANE vs. ZACK RYDER

WINNER: No Match; bell never sounded. This captured Ryder's place in life enhancing upper-mid-card stars. Concerning Kane, more set-up for the inevitable Kane-Orton rubber match at Extreme Rules.

4 -- KOFI KINGSTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Lawler said he normally likes to hear "Yes," especially if it comes from a pretty lady, but now Bryan has ruined it for him. Moving along, Bryan "yes'ed" in Kofi's face to slow down Kofi as the crowd shouted their support for Bryan. Bryan landed a knee to the gut as a graphic flashed on the screen plugging the theme-less three-hour Raw next week. The graphic stayed on the screen for a while before Kofi teased a comeback, only to have Bryan cut him off with an uppercut. Lawler defended the honor of Gene LeBell as the match moved to the floor, where Kofi cut off Bryan with a strike to the face. They cut to break with Kofi in control.

Back live, Bryan was working over Kofi in the ring. They cut to a shot of A.J. watching the action on a TV monitor, and Cole admired A.J.'s perseverance continuing to pursue Bryan. Bryan blasted away on Kofi with more kick strikes as the crowd loudly chanted, "Yes!" Kofi then made a comeback with high-flying offense before warming up the crowd, which responded with boos. Kofi then delivered the Boom Drop before warming up for Trouble in Paradise. Bryan easily avoided, though, but Kofi came back with the SOS for a two count.

The action moved up top, where the two men blocked each other's offense before Kofi missed with a big top-rope splash. Bryan then wrestled Kofi to the mat and slapped on the Yes Lock center-ring. The crowd called for Kofi to tap out and he did, giving Bryan the submission win. Backstage, A.J. looked on approvingly as Bryan celebrated in the ring with the crowd doing "Yes!" chants over and over.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 10:34. Strong singles match. Bryan gets a clean win, then reinforces he's a heel (despite the crowd) with a post-match attack. That's the type of win Bobby Roode needs as heel champion in TNA. (**1/2)

5 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Jack Swagger and Vickie Guerrero)

Ziggler tried an early dropkick, but Clay shooed him away and delivered an overhead suplex. Swagger then found himself in the ring and the ref tossed out the match 22 seconds in. Post-match: Vickie tried to get involved, but Clay's dancers pulled her off the ring apron. Vickie shoved down Cameron, then Naomi cornered Vickie and she walked into Clay's jiggling pecs. Naomi then popped a frightened Vickie out of the ring, leading to more dancing for Clay and the dancers.

WINNER: Clay via DQ at 0:22.

6 -- WWE tag champions EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. IC champion BIG SHOW & GREAT KHALI -- non-title match

Abraham Washington, being called "AW," walked out on-stage to scout talent in the opening minutes of the match. It's not clear which team AW was actually scouting. Cole noted AW has not signed anyone yet as the giant babyface duo dominated the tag champs. The tag champs then decided to leave the match, but Big Show dragged them back into the ring. Khali turned this into a handicap match by dismantling the champs before the giants hit a stereo chokeslam and Punjabi Plunge for a double cover for the win. Post-match, Show and Khali danced as Cole groaned.

WINNERS: Show & Khali at 1:55. Just a showcase of WWE's big-man stars at the expense of the tag champs. WWE's mid-card titles are virtually useless at this point.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. LORD TENSAI (w/Sakamoto) -- Extreme Rules match

As the bell sounded, Cole took things back to WM28, wondering if Cena has even recovered from his WrestleMania loss to The Rock. And, now, he has to deal with Brock Lesnar. Lawler said he bets Cena thinks about that loss to The Rock every morning he wakes up. Tensai dismantled Cena early on before splashing Cena in the corner, which sent Cena rolling to the outside.

Cena teased a comeback on the floor, but Tensai whipped Cena into the ring steps. Tensai then wanted a powerbomb, but Cena countered with a back body drop. Cena then lifted up the ring steps and cracked the steps across Tensai's body. Cena rolled Tensai back into the ring, but Sakamoto smacked around Cena ringside. Otunga then got up from his ringside seat and rolled Cena into the ring, where Tensai scored a nearfall.

Cole added some very strong commentary that Laurinaitis may have recruited Lesnar because he doesn't think Cena could ever recover from the loss to Rock at WrestleMania, and he needs a new top star. Lawler equated it to Tiger Woods unable to regain his Majors victory form in the past few years following his personal life collapse. Cena finally made a comeback, then hit the sit-out slam. He wanted the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Tensai reached his feet and chopped Cena across the face. Tensai followed with a running splash for a two count.

Tensai continued the attack with a leg drop across the shoulder, followed by an armbar. Tensai leaned back on Cena's back to apply more pressure, but Cena flipped over into the STF in one fluid motion. Otunga then stormed the ring, but ate an Attitude Adjustment from Cena. The distraction allowed Tensai to get his green mist and spew it in Cena's face. Tensai then hit a sit-out powerbomb on Cena and made the cover for the win.

WINNER: Tensai at 6:59. Classic stack the deck formula against Cena, with Tensai being a surrogate for Lesnar and a means for getting sympathy on Cena. Not much heat on Tensai, though, three weeks into his TV return. The character just isn't popping off the screen at a main event-level yet. Lastly, having Cena take a loss this close to Extreme Rules was questionable, but the commentary was really strong focusing on whether Cena is off his game following the loss to Rock at Mania.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 23 2012, 04:45 am
WWE NXT Results: 4-19-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_60536.shtml)

1 - PERCY WATSON vs. JOHNNY CURTIS (w/Maxine)

On commentary, Maxine throws Curtis to the wolves, pointing out that he had the chloroform and was the one who did the kidnapping. Watson is dominating the match, and Maxine denies having a relationship at the moment with Curtis. Watson misses a leg drop and Curtis starts his attack. I think I hear a faint "We Want Regal" chant from the England crowd, but the audience isn't mic'ed well.

Curtis is continuing to press his attack on Watson out of the break. Josh Mathews reminds Maxine that we actually saw everything that happened, implying that people in WWE actually watch WWE programming and video packages. Watson tries a jackknife cover, but Curtis kicks out and goes back to the attack. Regal goes through a lengthy, bizarre explanation of how his suit was made and when Maxine calls him out on it, he tells her that it's less of a lie than some of the stuff coming out of her mouth lately.

The action resets in the ring and Watson lands rights and a pair of dropkicks to turn things around. Suplex places Curtis on the mat, then a Highsman gets a nearfall. Percy looks for the Percycution, but Curtis elbows out. Watson shows Curtis into the turnbuckle and catches him on the rebound with the Percycution for the win.

Winner: Percy Watson in 9:00. This was a pretty good match for NXT, but it existed solely to give Maxine and William Regal a platform to discuss the story.

Post-match, Regal gets on the house mic and congratulates Watson on the win. He then recalls Curtis from the ramp to be on commentary as Maxine goes to the ring for a match. Curtis protests; he needs a shower, he says. I guess they'll be playing "he said, she said," which should prove interesting. Katilyn versus Maxine is next.

2 - KAITLYN (w/Derrick Bateman) vs. MAXINE (w/Johnny Curtis)

I think Kaitlyn has new music. Bateman is on commentary, too. Kaitlyn tries a surprise pair of covers out of the break, but cannot get more than a one count. Maxine comes right back, but Kaitlyn comes out with a backbreaker, then a leg lock. Bateman, Curtis, and Regal all agree that Maxine is evil and at the heart of the issues going on. And, Curtis denies kidnapping Striker. Maxine with a boot to Kaitlyn's face, then she holds Kaitlyn down while chopping Kaitlyn's chest. Bateman claims he loves Regal and always plays as him in video games.

Maxine settles into a chinlock and the crowd rallies Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn fights out and hits a crossbody for two. Kaitlyn takes Maxine's face to the turnbuckle, forcing the ref to break them, and Maxine gets a drop toehold to turn the tide and send her face-first into the turnbuckle. Maxine mounts her from behind as she recovers and puts on a Dragon Sleeper hold with leg scissors. Kaitlyn foolishly stands up instead of keeping to the corner for a rope break, lasts about 10 seconds, and taps out.

WINNER: Maxine in 4:00. Again, another match designed to give the commentary a reason to exist.

Post-match, Bateman heads to the ring to console Kaitlyn. Regal detains Curtis at the booth and calls Maxine over, and confronts them on the kidnapping. He says that Maxine must officially be Curtis's manager or else he will fire them, and has a contract for them to sign. They both look furious. Curtis signs it and Maxine holds out. She caves in and signs it. He offers a handshake, and when she accepts, he handcuffs her to Curtis. Clever. That will make bathroom breaks and showers awkward.

3 - TYLER REKS vs. CURT HAWKINS - Loser is Fired - Matt Striker special referee

Reks out of the bell with fast, hard offense. Hawkins leaves the ring and Reks pursues. Hawkins tries to surprise Reks, but Reks doesn't fall for it. It's clear Reks is playing the fired-up babyface fighting for his career. Reks to the top rope, but Hawkins dodges a frogsplash, and takes control. That was a huge jump for a man the size of Reks, as he went more than halfway across the ring. Hawkins keeps Reks down and controls him. Mathews gives them credit for fighting hard and not trying to weasel their way out of the match. Regal sarcastically asks why Striker had a referee's shirt on under his jacket.

Reks lands a slingshot plancha to Hawkins on the outside. This hasn't been seen from Reks since his ECW debut. Reks gets the speed and power turned up. Side Russian legsweep gets Reks two. Reks eats a boot in the corner and Hawkins runs him down for two. Reks looks for a gutwrench move, but Hawkins slips out. Hawkins then tries his swinging bodyslam, but Reks slips out and rolls up Hawkins for the win.

WINNER: Tyler Reks in 5:30. Reks just did a 180 on his in-ring career. He's gone back to the style that I saw so much promise in when he debuted on ECW a long time back - a high-flying moveset in the body of a heavyweight wrestler. Some of it was not quite as deft as a smaller man would have been, but it immediately positions Reks well as having a unique, recognizable moveset in his weight class.

Post-match, Reks panders to the crowd and gets a bit of reaction. Hawkins jaws at Striker, and Striker decks him and screams, "You're fired!" Reks leads the crowd in the good-bye song, then Regal gets on the mic and fires Hawkins officially. He shakes Reks's hand and says they will put their differences aside. Reks says Regal isn't bad after all. Regal asks him to repeat that, then says Reks is fired, too. Reks blows up as referees come out to escort them out to close the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 23 2012, 04:49 am
WWE Superstars Results: 4-19-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_60568.shtml)

1 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JINDER MAHAL

This is actually a potentially interesting match, considering that both Tatsu and Mahal have martial arts-inspired movesets. Mahal surprises Tatsu as soon as the bell rings, and Mahal repeatedly cuts off Tatsu's offense. Mahal uses the apron to tie up Tatsu and lands a running knee lift to Tatsu's covered head, which was a clever move. Mahal transitions to his typical grinding offense.

Tatsu reverses a suplex into a lateral press, then runs the ropes and swings into a hard-fought crucifix pin for two. Mahal ducks the roundhouse finisher, shoves Tatsu into the ropes, and knees him in the back of the head. Mahal straddles Tatsu's still body and lays into the Camel Clutch for a quick tap-out.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal via submission in 7:00. Good match; they meshed well. It's nice to see Mahal against someone other than Khali, and to see Tatsu doing something.

2 - KELLY KELLY vs. EVE TORRES

"Hoeski" chant from the crowd. Eve's changes her outfit to look a bit more like a chainmail bikini - where's my AD&D 2nd Edition book when I need it? You know what, the only person enhanced from the whole Cena-Kane-Ryder-Eve mess was Eve. How often does that happen?

Eve starts the match by forcing Kelly to the corner, then slapping her. Kelly does the leg choke over the ropes as the crowd keeps up the Hoeski chants. Eve sits on the turnbuckle and puts Kelly into a headlock, lifting her off the mat and Kelly kicks like a stuck pig. The crowd goes nuts with a "Yes!" chant. Eve with a resthold, and she keeps leaning forwards to chat with Kelly, but her hair covers their faces and it looks like Eve's trying to kiss Kelly.

Kelly gets come separation and lands a snap head scissors into a roll-up for two. Eve with a reverse side Russian leg sweep for two. Kelly gets her knees up when Eve tries a running handspring splash. Kelly then goes back to the handspring splash and the Booty Call, but Eve stacks her up and pins her with boots on the ropes.

WINNER: Eve Torres in 5:45. Eve is consistently decent, and I give her a lot of credit for both changing her in-ring style to fit her heel turn, and constantly trying new moves. I question the wisdom of giving away her first match against Kelly Kelly on Superstars, but then again, they gave away a few moments of Beth Phoenix against Natalya a few weeks ago.

3 - R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger leads with a take down and pats the back of R-Truth's head, then does his victory lap. Truth looks mad and they chain wrestle for a bit, which Swagger dominates. R-Truth tackles Swagger when he celebrates, and goes onto his Dance Dance Revolution offensive routine. Lots of back-and-forth and they head to break.

Swagger is in control, but R-Truth turns it around for a moment, until Swagger counters a wheelbarrow with an overhead throw. R-Truth dodges a leg drop and starts a period of sustained offense. Swagger's power puts him back on top. There's a "Let's Go Swagger / Swagger Sucks" chant. What, he gets a haircut and they confuse him with John Cena? R-Truth fights from the top of the turnbuckle, then a tornado DDT gets him a nearfall.

The action resets and R-Truth starts to run Swagger over. Truth with the Lie Detector for a nearfall. Truth gets the leg scissors takedown this time for a two count. Swagger then kicks his legs and landes a takedown for two. R-Truth gets his boots up on a Swagger Bomb and immediately lands the Little Jimmy for the win.

WINNER: R-Truth in 12:30. Lots of back-and-forth in this match; it was good to see Swagger get some extended ring time in a main event match-up.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 23 2012, 04:51 am
TNA impact Wrestling Results: 4-19-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_60315.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MATT MORGAN & X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. BULLY RAY & CRIMSON

In the ring, Morgan and Crimson battled, continuing their battle from Lockdown. Morgan delivered a wind-up sidewalk slam, then measured Crimson for a big boot, but Crimson moved and Morgan ate the top rope. Ray then yanked Morgan's injured knee across the top rope to set up the heels for a two-on-one attack on Morgan. The heels continued working over Morgan as the Impact crowd tried to start at least three slow-claps to rally Morgan.

Crimson finally lost focus, allowing Morgan to cut off Crimson and crawl over to Aries for a tag. Aries landed strikes and punches on Ray, then ducked a clothesline from Crimson and landed kick strikes into a dropkick. Aries followed with left hands & elbows in the corner on Ray before Crimson accidentally speared Ray. Morgan then clotheslined Crimson to the outside and Aries went flying through the ropes with a suicide dive on Crimson.

Back in the ring, Aries smashed Ray with more high-impact offense, but lost focus playing to the crowd too much. Ray then awkwardly rolled up Aries, awkwardly hooked his tights, and ref Earl Hebner awkwardly counted to two-and-a-half or three-and-a-half to give the heels a tainted win. Post-match, Aries sold the finish with his trunks hanging half-way off his rear end as the heels celebrated on the entrance ramp.

WINNERS: Ray & Crimson at 6:06. Aries brought plenty of energy to the situation before falling victim to the typical TNA Babyface Failure Booking of playing to the hard camera before taking the loss.

2 -- KURT ANGLE vs. A.J. STYLES

The match started with the two men dancing around the ring before locking up center-ring. Meanwhile, Tenay said Roode's World Title opponent James Storm has yet to arrive at the building tonight. Angle and Styles continued to feel each other out before TNA abruptly cut to break.

Back from break, Styles ran over Angle with a clothesline, then splashed Angle in the corner. Angle came back with a reverse whip into the corner that rocked Styles. But, Styles came back with a springboard forearm smash to the head. Suddenly, Daniels and Kaz were ringside. Styles then took his eye off the ball when Daniels hopped on the ring apron. Styles yanked the document out of Daniels's hand, then Angle suddenly rolled up Styles from behind for the win.

Post-match: Angle sold the effects of the match as Daniels and Kaz cockily smiled on the way up the ramp. Meanwhile, Styles put the document inside his pants as Angle sold frustration that the match ended that way. Styles continued to sell concern over the contents of the document as Angle tried to call out to Styles that he had nothing to do with the finish.

WINNER: Angle at 6:33. The exact same finish to the opening match. And, it looks like Styles is situated in another oddball storyline that probably won't end well for him.

3 -- TARA & MISS TESSMACHER & MICKIE JAMES & VELVET SKY vs. KO champion GAIL KIM & SARITA & ROSITA & MADISON RAYNE -- eight-KO tag match

The announcers focused on a returning Tessmacher throughout the match. The action broke down before the finish, which led to the ring clearing out. In the chaos, Tessmacher scored a roll-up pin on Gail for the win. It looks like Tessmacher is next in line for a title shot against Gail after Velvet didn't get the job done at Lockdown. Post-match: The victorious babyface Divas mocked Gail, who stood frustrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Team Tessmacher at 5:38. Three out of three matches with the same roll-up finish.

4 -- TV champion DEVON vs. GUNNER -- TNA TV Title match

Gunner jumped Devon before the bell, so, of course, with this being TNA, the ref called for the bell despite an unfair advantage to the challenger. Gunner continued the attack, landing forearms to the back of the neck before landing strikes to the chest. The crowd was quick to respond with a slow-clap trying to rally behind Devon. This was followed by a "Deee-von" chant and another slow-clap. And, a third slow-clap all within the first 2:20 of the match.

This was followed by a "Let's Go Devon" chant as Gunner continued to work over Devon, who suddenly came back with a spear. Devon then led the fourth slow-clap of the match to fire himself up and made his comeback. Devon shoulder-blocked Gunner before delivering a Thesz Press into a flying headbutt. Devon orchestrated a fifth slow-clap before delivering another flying shoulder block. Devon then hit a spinebuster for the pin and the win. Devon should have just rolled up Gunner to keep the streak alive.

WINNER: Devon at 4:06 to retain the TV Title. A bit rushed and the crowd was a burden. The TV Title series is fine, but the title needs a lot of maintenance; I'm not sure having it defended every week will accomplish that objective.

5 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. JEFF HARDY vs. ROB VAN DAM -- #1 contender match to the TNA World Title

Once the bell sounded, the three men came face-to-face-to-face for a confrontation. Anderson then teed off on both men, but RVD knocked him down with a clothesline before back-kicking Anderson. RVD then monkey-flipped Hardy clear across the ring before back-kicking Anderson from the second rope. But, Anderson cut off RVD and went to work on both men. Hardy then came back with a Whisper in the Wind splash on Anderson.

At 4:00, the men traded finishing moves on each other, but no one could score a fall. Hardy then went to the top turnbuckle and landed a Swanton Bomb on Anderson. But, RVD popped Hardy with a standing kick to cut off Hardy. RVD then went up top for the Five-Star Frogsplash and he connected on Anderson. Hardy grappled RVD, though, only for RVD to turn a Twist of Fate attempt into a backslide. RVD maintained Hardy's shoulders to the mat, did a leg-split to add leverage, and scored a pin for the win. RVD gets the title shot.

Post-match: Hardy sold dejection as RVD celebrated the win. RVD then checked on Hardy before they replayed the finish, focusing on how RVD used his flexibility to secure the pin on Hardy. Back in the ring, Hardy and RVD embraced before RVD got his shine in the ring. (Anderson completely disappeared, putting the focus on Hardy and RVD.) Tenay plugged Roode vs. RVD at Sacrifice to close the show.

WINNER: RVD at 5:24 to become new #1 contender. Three-ways are a tired match formula, but this was fine for a main event trying to get a lot of star power in one match. Hardy had his "out" selling the effects of Lockdown against Angle, so he didn't lose much from the loss, and gained sympathy based on the post-match. Roode vs. RVD in a PPV main event has no juice behind it, so TNA has a few weeks to try to sell people on a match-up similar to Roode-Styles. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 23 2012, 04:54 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-20-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_60603.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

- Daniel Bryan came to the ring under big 'YES' chants, told everyone he'll beat Sheamus like a real man best 2 of 3 in Chicago. AJ interrupts and takes a verbal beatdown from Bryan. Poor AJ... :(

1 -- A.J. vs. NATALYA

The referee called for the bell as A.J. continued to stare toward the entrance ramp. Natalya then walked up to A.J. to console her, and A.J. responded by slapping her across the face before pounding Natalya into the corner. A.J. went nuts on Natalya with slaps and kicks and punches before the ref had enough and DQ'ed her. Post-match: A.J. tried to catch her breath before slipping out of the ring. Cole said she needs to get counseling. A.J. became emotional again as she reached the top of the ramp, then turned and ran to the back.

WINNER: Natalya via DQ at 0:48.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

The bell sounded and Clay stomped toward Hunico before jiggling and shaking. Swoggle then randomly entered the ring and stood up to Hunico to do his own shake. Hunico wanted nothing to do with Swoggle, so he tossed him to the mat, prompting Clay to destroy Hunico. Clay executed a t-bone suplex, then bounced off the ropes for a flying splash to secure the win.

Post-match, Cole noted Clay has been rolling, then Swoggle climbed up top to deliver a Tadpole Splash to Hunico for the exclamation point. Booker said this is what this business is all about. What? They went to a replay of Swoggle's splash before returning to the ring for some final dancing that included Swoggle going too far on the splits.

WINNER: Clay at 1:13.

3 -- THE USOS vs. DARREN YOUNG & TITUS O'NEIL

Mathews framed this match-up as the Usos trying to hold their ground having been part of the Smackdown tag division for a while. Cole added that Laurinaitis is trying to improve SD's tag division. As the action went back and forth, Cole noted Young took O'Neil under his wing to help improve his mic work after subjecting himself to mockery from the fans. The action broke down at 3:00 before Titus sent Jey flying to the outside. Titus then tagged into the match and set up Jimmy Uso for a double-team combination. Titus made the cover for the win, surprising the announcers. Cole said the wins might not going to be pretty, but the style will be rough and tough from Titus & Young.

WINNERS: Titus & D-Young at 3:34. Fine main roster debut for Titus & Young. Meanwhile, the Usos continue to be slotted at the bottom of the tag roster.

4 -- IC champion BIG SHOW vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

Show dominated early on, rendering Del Rio ineffective. Del Rio then ducked a clothesline and went for the standard attack going after the knee to chop down Show. Del Rio turned his attention toward Show's left shoulder to potentially set up for the cross arm-breaker. Del Rio went for his finisher moments later, but Show tossed him aside. The two men were slow to their feet, then Show ran over Del Rio with multiple strikes into a spear.

Show made his way back to his feet, then called for the Chokeslam, but Ricardo hopped on the ring apron to provide a distraction that led to Cody Rhodes sneaking in the ring for a Disaster Kick. Rhodes ran out of the ring just as quickly as he entered, then Del Rio fell on top of Show for the win. Post-match, Rhodes knocked Show out of the ring, then bailed from the ring to avoid Show's wrath. Show, with hands on hips, stormed away from ringside.

WINNER: Del Rio at 5:16. And, Show-Rhodes continues. Meanwhile, Del Rio does not look like the same guy who was main-eventing Raw last year before he was injured. The gimmick feels dated and the character is missing a spark.

5 -- RYBACK vs. DANNY LERMAN

The bell sounded and Lerman went for weak kick strikes, but Ryback shoved him aside, then tossed him into the air for an overhead slam. Lerman sold as Slater & McIntyre placed bets backstage. Ryback then measured Lerman for a big clothesline before calling for the end. Ryback ran across the ring before delivering a running fallaway slam for the pin and the win. Post-match, Ryback yelled and screamed fragmented sentences before they replayed the action. Backstage, Slater and McIntyre debated whether Ryback is an idiot.

WINNER: Ryback at 1:13.

6 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & IC champion BIG SHOW & RANDY ORTON vs. DANIEL BRYAN & MARK HENRY & CODY RHODES

The match started during the break and the show resumed with Orton working over Rhodes as Cole continued to complain about Show joining the face team. Mathews explained that the heels took out Khali before the match, so Show was allowed to replace Khali. The match settled into the heels working over Sheamus as Cole endorsed D-Bryan, saying they've learned that he can be a pitbull in the ring. Rhodes then lost control of the match, bringing in Orton to tee off on Rhodes. Orton wanted his second-rope DDT and connected. Orton then went to That Place and stalked Rhodes for the RKO, but D-Bryan ran into the ring, only to take a powerslam. Henry cut off Orton, though, and the heels resumed control leading to break.

Back from break, Orton was trying to rip Orton's head off in a neck vice. Orton tried fighting back, but Henry shoved him to the mat, trash-talked, and tagged in Bryan, who delivered strikes as the somewhat-muted crowd chanted, "Yes!" in the background. Bryan then clobbered Orton in the corner with a leg whip before climbing up top for a diving headbutt that did not connect. Both men sold on the mat before Orton made his way to the corner to tag in Big Show. Henry also tagged in and the two big men collided center-ring. Show got the better of Henry early on before butt-splashing Henry. Rhodes attacked Show from behind, though, allowing Henry to clothesline Show to the mat. Henry had enough and tagged in Rhodes, who went to work on Show.

The heels tried to pick up where Del Rio left off in the top-of-the-second-hour match by focusing on Show's lower body, including Rhodes applying a figure-four leglock center-ring. Rhodes then reached up and tagged Henry, who entered the ring with a big splash on Show. But, it was only good for a two count. Henry had enough, so he tagged in D-Bryan, who tried a pin, but Show press-slammed D-Bryan clear out of the ring. Bryan was late re-entering, allowing Show to tag in Sheamus, who went to town on Bryan.

At 16:00, Rhodes found himself on the outside, where Show KO'ed him with the WMD. After that emphatic end to Rhodes's night, Sheamus and Henry battled inside the ring. Sheamus then dropped Henry with the Brogue Kick, and reached over to Orton for a tag. Meanwhile, Show KO punched Henry, who fell backward into Orton, who dropped Henry with the RKO. Orton with the cover on Henry for the win.

Post-match: The faces celebrated in the ring before WWE replayed the final 60 seconds of the match with the faces hitting their finishers leading to Orton's pin on Henry. Back in the ring, the face trio posed in the ring as Mathews plugged Extreme Rules coming up in nine days. Cole gave a final plug for the three-hour Raw on Monday for Cena and Lesnar in the same ring at the same time.

WINNERS: Team Orton at 16:56. Solid six-man tag match with the heels working well during their time to shine before the faces got the final word. Typical Smackdown main event for a "feel-good Friday night moment" since Smackdown didn't have a sense of urgency tonight with the PPV not until next week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 25 2012, 01:33 am
WWE RAW Results: 4-23-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60687.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Once the bell sounded, the announcers noted Lesnar and Cena's contract signing will occur on Lesnar's time. The match started with a back-and-forth before Jericho slipped to the outside for a breather. Back in the ring, Kofi maintained control before the ref got caught up in the action, giving Jericho an opening to take control of the action. Meanwhile, the announcers focused on the Jericho-Punk title match at Extreme Rules in Chicago, noting Punk had one of the most memorable moments of last year winning the WWE Title in his hometown. Kofi avoided a corner splash and knocked Jericho to the outside, then landed a big flip splash on the floor. Kofi in control heading to break.

Back live, Jericho was in control with a headlock center-ring. Jericho maintained control with an enziguiri, then went to work on Kofi's upper back with a standing surfboard stretch with a knee to Kofi's back. Jericho followed with a bulldog, but missed with a Lionsault, and Kofi followed with a head scissors into a pinning combination for a two count. Jericho cut off Kofi with a clothesline, though, and resumed control. Of note, Jericho was forming a big knot on his forehead from a Kofi elbow strike at this point.

The two men traded nearfalls before Kofi climbed up-top for a big splash to Jericho's back, which he followed up with a Boom Drop. Kofi wanted Trouble in Paradise, but Jericho blocked. Kofi then tried another high-impact move off the top rope, but Jericho intercepted with a Codebreaker. Jericho collected himself, then applied the Walls of Jericho, which Cole called a Lionsault. Kofi had no choice but to tap out as Cole corrected himself.

WINNER: Jericho via submission at 11:57. Strong win & promo for Jericho leading into Extreme Rules, but the problem with a three-hour show combined with a depleted roster reared its head in the opening match - a top star in an unannounced match against an upper-mid-carder on free TV waters down the value of seeing a top star compete in the ring.

2 -- LORD TENSAI vs. R-TRUTH

Once the bell sounded, some of the vocal males tried to taunt Tensai with "Albert, Albert" chants. Tensai shook off some early attacks from Truth, then headbutted Truth in the corner. The vocal males picked up some "Yes! Yes!" chants for a few moments before Tensai called for the end. Tensai landed a big running butt splash before delivering a sit-down powerbomb. Tensai rolled over Truth, who sold helplessness. Tensai then spewed his green mist into the air before slapping on The Claw. Some grunts later, Tensai clawed Truth to the mat and scored a three count for the win as the crowd groaned. Lawler claimed this is what he did for eight years in Japan.

WINNER: Tensai at 2:01. The slow burn continues.

3 -- IC champion BIG SHOW & GREAT KHALI vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO & CODY RHODES

Khali started the match and demanded Rhodes start the match with him. Rhodes tried to dance around Khali, then intercepted his leg before chopping Rhodes's leg/knee area. Rhodes then slipped out of the ring and tried to shake it off by limping around ringside as Ricardo Rodriguez tried to talk strategy. Rhodes eventually re-entered and tagged in Del Rio, who tried kicking away at Khali, but Khali shoved him off and landed a kick strike. Khali then chopped Del Rio hard across the chest, sending Del Rio to the outside. Ricardo waved the heat off Del Rio's chest before they cut to break two minutes in.

Back live, they went to a wide-shot of the arena before slowly fading to the ring, where Khali tagged in Big Show, who cleaned house. Rhodes then pulled down the top rope and Show went spilling to the outside. Rhodes quickly targeted Show's knee, trying to take apart the big man. The ref then started a ten count as Show sold on the floor. Show made it back in the ring right at nine, then Del Rio resumed the attack. "Let's Go Big Show" chant as Del Rio continued to attack Show before the heels started exchanging tags to wear down Show.

Rhodes then slapped on the figure-four center-ring as the crowd whoo'ed. Show sold the effects, then reached back and slapped Rhodes across the face to break the hold. Show then fought off Del Rio, who decided he had enough of the match and bailed on Rhodes. Back in the ring, Show built momentum and began dismantling Rhodes as Lawler made border jokes about Del Rio. Show then finished off Rhodes with a chokeslam for the pin and the win. On-stage, Del Rio and Rodriguez sold they didn't care about the outcome. Back in the ring, Show and Khali embraced as Show sold the effects of the heels's attack.

WINNERS: Khali & Show at 10:28. So, booking would indicate Rhodes gets back his IC Title on Sunday, but it sure doesn't feel like it unless Rhodes gets a cheap win using the TBD stipulation.

4 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) -- Divas Title match -- Lumberjill match

The Bellas were shown warming up in the ring post-Mathews injury angle. Justin Roberts then announced Nikki Bella challenging for the Divas Title, and Beth Phoenix came out to defend the title for the first time on TV or PPV since February. Before the bell sounded, Cole noted Phoenix is closing in on the record for longest Divas Title reign. Also before the bell sounded, Eve walked out on-stage and said there are too many Divas sitting around here doing nothing, so this will now be a Lumberjills match. So, all of the Divas from backstage poured out to the ringside area. The match turned into a back-and-forth before the action spilled to the outside. Phoenix then sold a major ankle injury when she reached the floor, prompting the Divas to start brawling ringside to distract. Phoenix could barely make it back into the ring, then they went to a finish with Bella pinning Phoenix to capture the title. Post-match, a doctor checked on Phoenix as the Bellas celebrated.

WINNER: Bella at 4:02 to capture the Divas Title. Anti-climatic end to Phoenix's title reign, whether a legit injury or injury angle.

5 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY -- non-title match -- Daniel Bryan special referee

Bryan tried to instigate Sheamus early on, then Sheamus told Bryan to hit him, which would draw all sorts of punishments since Bryan is a ref tonight. Bryan tried again, but Sheamus refused to take the bait. Meanwhile, Henry prepared to run over Sheamus with a big clothesline once Sheamus turned around. Henry then made a cover and Bryan did a super fast count.

Post-match: Bryan threw off his ref t-shirt and tossed it in Sheamus's face, so Sheamus attacked Bryan ringside and chased him back into the ring. But, in the ring, Henry provided a distraction - taking a Brogue Kick from Sheamus - before Bryan kick-striked Sheamus, then he slapped on the "Yes! Lock" center-ring. The vocal males cheered along before the general audience booed Bryan for his actions. Bryan then left the ring doing his chant before declaring the title is coming back to him.

WINNER: Henry at 1:35. Finally, finally, finally, a biased, heel referee did a fast count in the first pin attempt of the match. That's driven me crazy for years - why would a biased, heel referee ever try to make an objective, dramatic nearfall count when trying to screw over the face? Throw in Bryan getting the advantage here to set up Sheamus for revenge at the PPV and this may have been the best-booked segment of the show.

6 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. U.S. champion SANTINO & ZACK RYDER -- non-title match

The crowd was into Ryder early on as he picked apart Epico. Ryder with the Broski Boot, then he measured Epico for the Rough Ryder, but Rosa provided a distraction. Ryder then found himself on the outside, where Ryder ate the ringpost via sneak attack. Back in the ring, Epico covered Ryder for a one count. The crowd rallied with a "Let's Go Ryder / Woo Woo Woo" chant as Cole wondered aloud why the crowd is into Ryder.

Santino then hot-tagged into the match at 2:30 and set up for the Cobra. Chaos ensued, though, then Primo tried a dropkick on Santino, but Santino popped up to his feet, no-sold, and dropped Primo with the Cobra for the pin and the win. Santino and Ryder then celebrated as Rosa sold anger ringside. Post-match, the faces celebrated as Cole called Santino a lucky charm.

WINNERS: Ryder & Santino at 3:15.

7 -- BRODUS CLAY & HORNSWOGGLE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & JACK SWAGGER -- Doritos Taco Bell match

Once the bell sounded, Swoggle demanded he enter the match. Clay obliged, going after Ziggler. Off the ropes, Ziggler went for a back-kick that missed Swoggle by about a foot, taking the crowd out of the match because it looked so fake. Ziggler followed up with an attack, but Clay tagged into the match and headbutted Ziggler across the ring before suplexing Swagger. Vickie had enough and entered the ring before slapping Clay, causing a DQ.

WINNERS: Clay & Swoggle via DQ at 1:55. They give Vickie the worst stuff to do, but she handles it like a pro. And, yes, this was the main event match of the show, following Raw's recent pattern of buffer/comedy/mid-card stuff as the actual main event match before a non-match segment closes the show in the TV main event slot.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 10:02 am
FCW TV Results: 4-15-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/floridachampionship/article_60742.shtml)

3 man announce team: Chris Russo, William Regal, and Jim Ross.

1 -- C.J. PARKER & XAVIER WOODS (Consequences Creed in TNA) & JASON JORDAN vs. BRAD MADDOX & COREY GRAVES & JAKE CARTER

Wasn’t C.J. Parker Pamela Anderson’s character in Baywatch? Before the match starts, Abraham Washington comes out in a suit and sporting a cane. Washington trash-talks Woods & Co. before addressing the crowd. He refers to himself as the kingpin of Florida Championship Wrestling. He says he represents the best talent the organization has to offer before introducing Brad Maddox and the new tag champs Corey Graves (Sterling James Keenan) and Jake Carter.

Woods and Maddox start. Woods gains control and there are a few quick tags in the first minute for both sides as control shifts quickly between the teams. Ross notes how Graves and Carter are talented and have potential, but their lifestyle may be a problem as they like to live life in the fast line. Parker and Jordan hit a double suplex on Carter, then Jordan follows up with some offense on Maddox. As Jordan is distracted, Carter throws him out of the ring.

Maddox is tagged in and applies a Camel Clutch on Jordan. As Jordan gets to his feet, Maddox charges at him, but a low bridge sends Maddox out of the ring. Jordan hits another low bridge, this time sending out Graves. He then follows up with an elbow on Carter, but Maddox intervenes before he can make a tag.

Jordan eventually frees himself and gets the tag to Woods (Consequences Creed), who hits the ring with some fast offense including a nice roundhouse/duck/sweep combo followed up by an Honor Roll (a forward roll spring into a clothesline) on Carter. Teams from both sides enter the ring, but everyone except Carter and Woods end up on the outside. Woods hits Carter with the Lost in the Woods (a sliding reverse STO), which is good for the three.

WINNERS: Parker & Woods & Jordan (Woods over Carter).

MATCH REAX: Standard six-man affair with the finish seeming a bit rushed. Parker didn’t get much ring time, Jordan’s still quite green, and Woods is still fun to watch albeit not really having much time to shine. Maddox, Carter, and Graves are all pretty solid and played their roles well, though it wasn’t a great advert for the new tag champs with one of its members being dispatched quite easily. However, I like the look and attitude of Graves & Carter and hope they get a good run with the belts.

2 - MIKE DALTON vs. SAKAMOTO

Mike Dalton was FCW champ for a week in what was a bit of an underdog story last month. Now, he gets to face Lord Tensai’s handler, Sakamoto. Last time I saw Sakamoto, he was kicking John Cena. I presume this taping was before Tensai debuted, as there was no mention of him during Sakamoto’s entrance.

Dalton starts on top with a grounded hammerlock on Sakamoto. The pace steps up as Dalton hits a spinning elbow. Sakamoto turns the tables by hitting some pretty loud chops on Dalton before grounding him with the headlock. Dalton briefly fights back before running into one of Sakamoto’s kicks, followed by a headbutt. Dalton again fights back, but Sakamoto responds with an inverted atomic drop and a neckbreaker for a two count. Sakamoto hits some more kicks before going to the top rope. Dalton gets his knees up and throws some shots to Sakamoto’s sternum and finally gets to his feet.

Dalton gains a bit of momentum by hitting a clothesline and a spinning heel kick. Dalton hits a running elbow to the corner, but Sakamoto blocks an implant DDT, then responds with shots to Dalton’s throat. Dalton manages to finally block a shot and hits another spinning heel kick, which is followed up by an implant DDT. This time he’s successful and picks up the three count.

WINNER: Dalton via pinfall.

MATCH REAX: This match is the default for Mike Dalton now. He takes a beating, but manages to fight back and win. When you combine this with his long blonde hair and shiny trousers he’s essentially an old-school babyface. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. It will be interesting to see if he can get back into the FCW title picture, as Tyler Black name-checked him last week when discussing challengers, and this week he got a clean win over a guy who was just called up to the main roster (albeit as a sidekick).

3 -- FCW Divas champion RAQUEL DIAZ (Shaul Guerrero) vs. AUDREY MARIE -- FCW Divas Title match

Audrey Marie apparently used to be an accountant. I’m an accountant! Maybe I could be a future FCW Diva. Anyways, Marie takes Diaz down with a headlock to start, but Diaz reverses it into a head scissors. Diaz throws Marie into the corner and then pulls her head down to the mat. After a two count, she hits Marie with a baseball slide, which knocks her to the outside. The Divas trade slaps before Marie pushes Diaz into the steps.

As the Divas return to the ring, Diaz regains control and applies the second Camel Clutch of the evening. Diaz likes to scream a lot. Marie reverses and gets to her feet and attempts a scoop slam, which Diaz reverses into a cradle for a two count. Diaz hits some nice forearm shots and follows it up with a shoulder block. Diaz goes for what may have turned into a Gory Bomb, which Audrey Marie blocks. Diaz manages to execute a roll-up and grabs the tights for the 1-2-3.

WINNER: Diaz via pinfall to retain the FCW Divas Championship.

MATCH REAX: Okay Divas match. I think Diaz has potential, especially with her family links. She hit some good-looking forearm shots, too.

4 -- JIRO vs. BIG. E. LANGSTON

WWE stereotypes are ridiculous - Jiro comes out with a fan and a karate kid bandana. Unbelievable. Big E. is billed at “over 300 lbs.," and Ross duly asks what that means. Do they not have scales in Florida? They talk up Langston’s weightlifting background. Langston was the guy in the Raw segment where Cena visited a gym and cheered on Langston during a bench press.

Langston is wearing a very fetching purple singlet. Regal says he’d love to see Mark Henry mentor Langston. Ross agrees. Langston pushes Jiro about and then hits some knees to the mid-section. He charges Jiro in the corner and puts him on his shoulder before drooping out into a cutter style move (or the Big Ending as he calls it). Pin. 1-2-3. Langston wins. Very short match.

WINNER: Langston via pinfall.

MATCH REAX: Good squash for Langston. I disliked Jiro’s stereotypical character, but what else can you expect from WWE.

5 -- KASSIUS OHNO (Chris Hero) vs. BENICIO SALAZAR

Benicio Salazar comes out wearing white boots, white pants, a white mask, and a white cape. I love capes. WWE loves stereotypes. Everyone wins! Ohno is out wearing a black zip-up jacket, in similar attire to his Chris Hero gimmick. Regal notes that he used to be “a fat lad,” but he’s got into shape. He certainly looks different to the guy who feuded with Punk in IWA: Mid South all those years ago.

Ohno opens up with a trip and some stomps. He then hits a jawbreaker and puts Salazar in the corner, where he throws some kicks and chops. Salazar fights back and hits a huricanrana followed by a corner monkey flip and a dropkick. Ohno blocks a second monkey flip and then hits the Rolling Elbow! That’s the best finisher in wrestling. And, it’s good for the pin.

WINNER: Ohno via pinfall.

MATCH REAX: Short match, but really fun while it lasted. Salazar looked like he knows what he’s doing and Ohno definitely knows what he’s doing.

6 -- DEAN AMBROSE (Jon Moxley) vs. JAMES BRONSON -- Tapout match

Bronson out first in his sleeveless hoodie. He looks like a cross between Bully Ray and C.W. Anderson. Russo says this is one for the MMA fans. Regal notes how he is a former member of Xtreme Couture.

Ambrose comes straight into the ring and unloads on Bronson, but Bronson slams down Ambrose and transitions into full mount before ground-and-pounding, Ambrose which he then transitions into a reverse armbar. They are both back on their feet as Bronson throws kicks in the corner. Ambrose reverses a suplex attempt into an armbar, which Bronson in turn reverses into an inverted cross arm-breaker. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that move before.

Ambrose escapes and briefly gets into full mount himself. As they get to their feet, Ambrose signals for a Regal Knee, but misses (a recent element of the Ambrose Regal feud has been Ambrose using Regal’s arsenal) and Bronson hits an exploder suplex.

Bronson misses a spinning clothesline and Ambrose hits the Regal Knee, then applies the Regal Stretch. Regal gets up and leaves the arena while the hold is applied. Bronson can’t hold out any longer and taps out, giving Ambrose the win.

WINNER: Ambrose via "tapout" submission.

Post-match: Ambrose seems angry that Regal left and follows him out of the arena. Ambrose is shouting, “You broke my heart,” in the back. Ambrose faces the camera and says, “I thought you were like me but you’re not. You’re just like everybody else.” He says Regal took away his re-match like the drugs that took away his mom, the cops that took his dad, and the social services that took away his little cousin.

While pointing around him, he says this is all he has and how Regal broke his heart today, so he will rip out Regal’s heart and throw it against the wall. Show closes.

MATCH REAX: This was great while it lasted, but it was too short. FCW managed to fit six matches into an hour-show, which is great, but the downside is that this match didn’t reach its full potential. Bronson has talent and I really like his MMA style.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 10:04 am
WWE NXT Results: 4-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_60761.shtml)

1 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JTG

Bateman starts off with tons of fire, with hard-hitting offense out of the gate. JTG struggles to get traction as Bateman continues to overpower him. JTG dodges the missile dropkick off the apron giving JTG control. JTG with a chinlock, and a "Master Bateman" chant breaks out. Striker actually corrects Hornswoggle's grammar.

Bateman with a jawbreaker to regain control. JTG's funky suplex/faceplant gets a nearfall. After a struggle, Bateman with an odd bulldog or reverse STO thing for the win.

WINNER: Derrick Bateman in 7:00. This match never really got out first gear, which is a common complaint for matches with JTG.

2 - TAMINA SNUKA & KAITLYN vs. NATALYA & MAXINE (w/Johnny Curtis) - Tag Team Match

At the bell, Snuka and Kaitlyn hit dropkicks to send the heel pair out of the ring. Curtis says he hates being stuck with Maxine. Natalya puts power on Kaitlyn, and plays up being jealous. She carries Kaitlyn to the corner and tags in Maxine as Striker brings up his recent history with Curtis. Natalya with a sweet abdominal stretch. Striker comments on Curtis's "Let's Get Weird" shirt, and says, "That's not a WWE t-shirt, is that a Barber Shop Window t-shirt?" Odd that they mentioned that site.

Kaitlyn flattens Natalya with a low crossbody, but Natalya recovers and tags Maxine in. Maxine jumps off the top rope, lands on Kaitlyn, and locks in a front facelock with scissors. Kaitlyn tries to get a rope break, but Natalya tags in. Maxine gets mad, but Natalya continues the offense on Kaitlyn.

Double tag and Snuka comes in like white lightning. Snuka with a leg lariat to the arm, then a leg drop to put Maxine down. Snuka to the top rope, and lands the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNERS: Snuka & Kaitlyn at 4:45. Good match that I was hoping to see another five minutes of. But, since when did Natalya have feelings for Tyson Kidd in a storyline context?

3 - TYSON KIDD vs. JOHNNY CURTIS (w/Maxine and Michael McGillicutty) - Tag Team Match

Crowd chants for Kidd right out of the bell, and Kidd dominates Curtis with his speed and technical skills. Curtis surprises Kidd and uses his size to control the match. Kidd resets the match with his speed, and Curtis heads outside for a breather. Kidd runs out to meet him, and they brawl ringside. Kidd lands a running, jumping huracanrana from the apron and sends Curtis further away fromt he ring.

Curtis is dominating with an armbar out of the break. McGillicutty talks up Johnny Curtis very well. In fact, McGillicutty is doing a great job on commentary, developing his own character in the process and reminding viewers of his recent feud with Kidd. It looks like Curtis almost bit Kidd's hand, and he continues to control Kidd with both holds and strikes. Curtis keeps drawing the ref's ire with corner work. Striker says Johnny Curtis trained with Killer Kowalski, which is a nice piece of history there.

Kidd gets some space, which allows him go on the attack. McGillicutty puts some moves on Maxine in the interim. Curtis meets Kidd on the turnbuckle and lands a big superplex, but he's slow to cover and only gets a nearfall. Kidd rallies from the apron and heads up top again, and lands a blockbuster from the top rope for a nearfall. Very innovative.

Kidd looks for a Sharpshooter or his new submission, but Curtis counters with an inside cradle for two. Curtis with a quick suplex sending Kidd flying, and covers for another close two count. Curtis goes to the top turnbuckle and tries a big double leg drop, but Kidd dodges. Kidd slaps on his new submission hold, kicking Curtis in the head when he tries to get out. Curtis taps after a few seconds.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd in 10:30. Top-notch match. Curtis had a period of sustained offense that didn't get boring, the "combustible elements" on commentary didn't distract from the match, and Tyson Kidd should be playing ball with Chris Jericho, C.M. Punk, and Daniel Bryan. I love Kidd's new submission hold, it's like a Sharpshooter plus Hell's Gate.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 10:05 am
WWE Superstars Results: 4-26-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_60790.shtml)

It sounds like Michael Cole is replacing an "injured" Josh Mathews. The pairing of Cole and Matt Striker does not excite me, but the pairing of Striker and Scott Stanford would be delightful.

1 - THE USOS vs. HUNICO & CAMACHO - Tag Team Match

This is, as far as I can tell, Camacho's on-camera in-ring debut. Pre-match, Hunico cuts a promo, and The Usos mock them by having one get onto top of the other's back to satirize their bike entrance, then they cut a promo of their own.

Hunico and Jey Uso to start. Hunico puts Jey off early, but Jey quickly comes back and brings Jimmy in. Cole says that on Friday's Smackdown, John Laurinaitis will have a decision about Brock Lesnar's assault on Josh Mathews. Hunico brings in Camacho. Camaco with basic power, but Jimmy is able to bring Jey in. A double-team move gets two for the Usos. The action breaks down a bit and Jimmy is the active man on the apron.

False commercial break, and Jimmy is being beaten down by Camacho. Either Camacho has a very unique moveset, or he needs a lot of work to tighten things up - it's hard to tell, which is not good. Hunico with a leg lock of sorts, and even Striker can't identify it. The heels continue to isolate Jimmy. Cole also says Brock Lesnar's UFC background gives him the advantage in an Extreme Rules match. I'm not sure why.

Double tag and Jey runs Hunico down. Cole delivers the full Josh Mathews experience: "Shades of his father, Rikishi!" The action breaks down once more, and Camacho gets a cheap shot in while the ref is distracted. Hunico grabs tights and gets the win.

WINNERS: Hunico and Camacho at 9:30. Okay match. I've seen a lot better from both the Usos and Hunico. Camacho didn't get too much ring time, so I don't think he was the issue, though he is clearly quite green.

2 - KELLY KELLY vs. MAXINE

In a stroke of good luck, Striker and Stanford are in the booth, as I had hoped for. Maxine is without Johnny Curtis; isn't that a violation of William Regal's instructions? Stanford even references the NXT kidnapping angle.

Kelly gets things going with a Thesz Press, then an armdrag, sending Maxine to the corner. Maxine dodges the handspring splash, then settles into a chinlock and looks like she means it. The crowd rallies behind Kelly Kelly, as there's a lengthy hold sequence. Kelly fights out, and Maxine gets the reverse Dragon Sleeper on, but Kelly finally gets to the ropes and rams Maxine into the turnbuckle. Kelly with a choke in the ropes (Stanford calls it the "barbed wire"), then she trips Maxine. Maxine gets the Booty Call in the face, then the handspring splash. Kelly sets up the K2 and lands it mid-ring.

WINNER: Kelly Kelly in 5:00. Maxine has a lot of talent, both potential and realized. I love her in-ring mannerisms, she even carried and lengthy hold convincingly. What a shame to throw her under the Kelly Kelly bus.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. THE MIZ

Wow, has Miz's stock dropped or what? This is a re-match from a feud from nearly a year ago, and it is insanely rare to see anyone even close to Miz's level on Superstars.

Miz with an armdrag and acts like he's done something impressive. Riley welcomes a lock-up, and tosses Riley again after a brief struggle. Mix dumps Riley with a third armdrag. Riley makes a comeback with power, then Miz takes advantage of a telegraphed back body drop.

Riley makes a comeback that makes me think of Percy Watson, with his big dropkicks and speed. Miz puts boots to Riley in the corner, then Riley comes out of the corner strong. Riley with a strange hip toss suplex combo that looks pretty nasty. Miz suckers Riley and dumps him through the ropes. Miz surprises Riley on the top turnbuckle and slams his arm on the ropes heading to break.

Miz is controlling Riley with mat holds out of the break. Miz plays to the crowd as he dominates Riley. Miz with a very long armbar and wristlock submission, and lectures Riley, who finally fights out, but Miz DDTs the arm for a two count. Miz with the corner-to-corner clothesline, and he goes up top, but Riley counters a double axe handle. Riley is too injured to cover, and rolls to the ropes to pull himself up. Riley lands some heavy rights, then speeds things up even more. Big spinebuster from Riley, and he wants the Final Score, but Miz escapes. Riley with a schoolboy for two.

Miz with the Reality Check for a nearfall. Stanford calls it by name, which is the first time it's been mentioned by name in years. Riley ducks Miz's boot to the head, but Miz sends Riley into the turnbuckle and catches him with the Skull Crushing Finale for the win.

WINNER: The Miz in 13:15. Very good match. Miz may be in the doghouse, but he's working hard to get out. He's been working hard in the gym, and his physique looks fantastic compared to where it was a few months ago. He put on a good match with the quite competent Alex Riley. It's nice to see The Miz in a long-form match and be able to keep it interesting.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 10:07 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 4-26-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_60794.shtml)

1-- TNA Television champion DEVON vs. BULLY RAY -- Television Title match

Ray and Devon started the match battling at ringside where Devon slammed a drink into Ray’s head. Back in the ring Ray tried to plea with Devon, but he wasn’t having it and continued to beat on Ray. Devon went to the top, but Ray hit the ropes sending Devon, groin first, onto the turnbuckle as the show cut to commercials.

As the show came back from the break, Ray was in control of the match, stomping on a floored Devon. He hit a big splash for a close two count. They exchanged punches accompanied with the audience chanting “yes” for Devon, and “boo” for Ray. Ray nailed Devon with a big boot and a clothesline, and a Bullybomb for a pair of believable nearfalls. Devon hit a spinebuster out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Devon via pinfall at 10:22. Ray wasn’t bluffing earlier when he said he didn’t want to be in the ring with Devon because he would make him a star, well, kind of. Good effort for what was probably the most meaningful title defense for Television Title in the history of its existence. In no way do I want to see Ray and Devon feuding for an extended period of time, so I was okay with TNA just throwing the match out there.

Jeremy Borash came out to the ring, and thanked Hogan for the opportunity to air a grievance and call someone out. He singled out Eric Bischoff and called him out for getting liquored up and calling out employees on his Facebook page. He said if it was Bischoff’s last night that he wanted him to put down his Blackberry to come out and fight him as part of Open Fight Night. Bischoff came out as Borash called him out for drunk tweeting and asked him if there was a breathalyzer App on his iPhone. As Bischoff began to retort, Ray came out of nowhere and low-blowed Borash.

2 -- ERIC BISCHOFF vs JEREMY BORASH

Bischoff called for referee and pinned Borash for a three count as Ray filmed the whole thing on Bischoff’s iPhone.

WINNER: Eric Bischoff via pinfall at 0:03.

3 -- KURT ANGLE vs. ANARQUIA

Anarquia got a little bit of offense in, but Angle made quick work of him with a German suplex followed by the Anklelock for the submission win.

WINNER: Kurt Angle via submission at 0:55. So, is Angle a babyface now? I would have liked to have seen Angle in real action, but at this stage of the game, Angle deserves an easy night here and there and it would have made no sense to give Anarquia any viable offense against the Olympian.

4 -- ROBBIE E (w/Robbie T.) vs. ALEX SILVA -- Gut Check match

Robbie E. started by slapping Silva in the face, but Silva served him with a slap of his own. Robbie got the better of Silva until he missed a move off the top rope. Silva came back with a powerslam, but missed a move off the top rope. Robbie E. caught him with a DDT for the win.

WINNER: Robbie E via pinfall at 2:16. I like that they didn’t have Silva win on the first Gut Check challenge. I don’t know if it was by design, but if they are going to be doing this on a regular basis, it was smart to not have a “rookie” beat someone on the actual roster.

5 -- TNA KNOCKOUTS champion GAIL KIM vs. BROOKE TESSMACHER-- non-title match

Kim blindsided Tessmachaer as the bell rang and got a two count. Tessmacher dodged a forearm in the corner, but before she could mount any offense she was taken down by a clothesline from Kim. Kim picked her up on her shoulders and dropped her with a front slam, but Brooke came back with a pair of clotheslines and a dropkick. Tessmacher’s offense was put to stop by Kim as she called Tessmacher a joke. Kim missed a dropkick off the top rope, allowing Tessmacher to capitalize with a facebuster for the win.

WINNER: Brooke Tessmacher via pinfall at 3:54. Well, it looks like Kim is going to carry another talent-deficient Knockout to a title match on a TNA pay-per-view. I’m hoping Tessmacher’s win is foreshadowings Kim’s victory for their PPV match.

6 -- TNA World Tag Team champions SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS vs. JEFF HARDY & MR. ANDERSON -- Tag Title match

Joe and Anderson started the match off for their teams before Joe tagged Magnus, which prompted Anderson to tag Hardy in with a bit of force behind the tag. Anderson and Hardy tried to double team Magnus, but he caught on and put a stop it and tagged Joe in. Anderson put the brakes on Joe as he and Hardy seemed to be at ends before the show cut to commercials.

The show came back to Anderson and Hardy having the offensive edge after Tenay said that Joe and Magnus had been in control of the match over the course of the break. Joe a got a nearfall after a series of double-team movies followed by a senton splash by Joe. Hardy caught Joe with a Whisper in the Wind followed by both Joe and Hardy getting the hot tag for their teams.

Anderson and Magnus were thrown to the outside, which allowed Joe and Hardy to continue to duke it out in the ring. Hardy hit the Twist of Fate on Joe, and then focused on Magnus on the outside as he beat on Anderson. Anderson tried to take advantage of a downed Joe, but ended up in a rear naked chokehold for the submission win for Joe and Magnus.

WINNERS: Samoa Joe and Magnus via submission at 10:56. Good match, and it was nice to see Joe and Magnus keep their momentum going with a big win over Hardy and Anderson.

As the champs made their way up the ramp, they were attacked by Kazarian and Daniels.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 10:09 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 4-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_60834.shtml)

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. THE BIG SHOW

This match was joined in progress with (what else?) hard slaps to the chest by Show. Show was building momentum, but Cody Rhodes came in and attacked for the disqualification.

WINNER: Show, via DQ, 1:54 shown. Not a lot to say about this one.

Cody Rhodes took a kendo stick to Show’s back after the match. Show no-sold it, and Show knocked a chair out of Cody’s hands. Before Cody could use his belt as a weapon, Show got the better of him and whipped Rhodes with the belt. Strap match on Sunday?

2 – ALICIA FOX vs. NIKKI BELLA

Fox was already in the ring. Cole said Beth will be invoking her rematch clause at Extreme Rules despite her injury. Jaw-breaker by Nikki, then a kick. Cover got one :16 in. Nikki settled into a rest-hold, stretching the right arm of Fox around her neck. Hair-pull take-down by Fox once she got to her feet, then she followed it up with dropkicks. Back elbow, then a matrix-like avoidance of a clothesline (how many Divas have done that now?). A switcheroo allowed Brie to come in. Face-buster and pin.

WINNER: Bella, at 1:48. Decent enough, considering the skill level of those involved.

3 – YOSHI TATSU & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TITUS O’NEIL & DARREN YOUNG

Cole called Tatsu and Jackson WWE’s answer to Rush Hour, while Teddy Long was playing Mrs. Doubtfire backstage. Long was at ringside parroting Laurinaitis’ comments from backstage. Young hot-shotted Tatsu off the top rope. Hard shot to the back by O’Neil. Quick tags by the heels and a double shoulder-knockdown on Tatsu. Near-fall got two at 1:08. Jackson was knocked off the apron as the heels tried a different version of their finisher from last week. It looked just as bad, but had the added advantage of almost breaking Tatsu’s neck too.

WINNERS: O’Neil and Young, at 1:46. Sorry, still not feeling these guys. I like Young as an individual, but don’t have much use for Titus at this point.

4 – ANTONIO CESARO vs. TYSON KIDD

Cole said Cesaro was kicked out of a rugby league for “excessive aggressiveness.” That’s pretty mid-90s for me. Cesaro picked Kidd up and suplexed him. He wore rugby-like socks around his quads. Kidd was thrown up into the air and Cesaro gave him a European Uppercut. Cradle pile-driver into a face-buster for the win.

WINNER: Cesaro, at 1:10. Nice debut for the former Claudio Castagnoli.

Teddy Long was told by Laurinaitis apparently to enter the ring and raise the hand of Aksana. Cesaro and Aksana then made out in front of Teddy as he looked like he was on the verge of tears.

5 – THE GREAT KHALI vs. CODY RHODES

Khali chopped Rhodes in the corner. Rhodes responded by dropkicking Khali in the leg. Dropkick off the top took Khali off his feet. Two-count after that. Khali looked to put Rhodes away, but Rhodes kicked him in the leg and tried a Disaster kick. Khali caught him and hit the Khali Bomb for the clean win.

WINNER: Khali, at 2:01. Rhodes has to win at Extreme Rules now, right?

6 – JACOB KAYE vs. RYBACK

Kaye got the mic and talked about all those ahead of him who have failed miserably to make a name for themselves. He talked about wanting all his life to escape Grand Rapids. He said tonight, he’ll be the first to score a victory over Ryback. I don’t really like how they’re doing the same thing every week, the jobber grabbing the mic (how come only guys against Ryback do that?) and showing people gathering to watch backstage. Does that only happen during Ryback matches? Other than that, I like Ryback’s actual squashes. Kaye tried to, I guess jump on Ryback, but Ryback tossed him away. Ryback put a boot to Kaye’s throat, then pressed him and brought him down in a slam. Clothesline took Kaye nearly out of his boots. “Finish him!” shouted Ryback. Then he did.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:08. The Usos joined me in being impressed with Ryback’s match.

7 – SHEAMUS vs. MARK HENRY

They once again replayed Bryan’s fast count on Henry’s pin Monday night. Henry took Sheamus to the mat but missed a short clothesline. Sheamus took Henry out at the knee and got a two count. Sheamus found himself on the apron and propelled himself in with a shoulder knock-down. Cole acted like it was the first time he had seen that. Both men eyed each other as they went to break at 2:29.

Back at 6:07 of the match. Henry fought off a Sheamus attack and whipped Sheamus from inside to outside the ring. Back in the ring, Henry stayed in control. Sheamus made his comeback around 9:30 and landed a short DDT for a two-count. Sheamus lined up for the Brogue Kick but missed and Henry clotheslined him down. Sheamus got his boot up on a running splash attempt. Sheamus rolled through after missing a tope-rope move. Henry turned around into a Brogue Kick for the finish.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 11:04.

Daniel Bryan came out after the match and mockingly slow-clapped for Sheamus. Sheamus got a mic and invited Bryan to the ring. Sheamus asked if Bryan was afraid because he couldn’t hide behind a ref’s shirt…or was it because he was afraid Sheamus would beat him in 18 seconds? Sheamus desperately tried to get an 18 second chant started, and it only caught on mildly. He said Bryan won’t get off easy at Extreme Rules. He asked if he was going to kick Bryan’s arse to remain champion? The answer: Yes, yes, yes, yes.” Crowd caught on and chanted along with Sheamus as the show ended.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 01:19 pm
WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results: 4-29-12 (next 4 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_60881.shtml)

A - U.S. champion SANTINO vs. THE MIZ -- U.S. Title match

Miz dominated early on as the announcers discusses Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena, mentioning Lesnar's UFC background to suggest Lesnar is in his element in an Extreme Rules match tonight. Cole also brought up Edge's pep-talk on Raw. Santino made his comeback, then finished off Miz with the Cobra in five minutes. Afterward, Striker wondered aloud what's next for Miz after the loss.

WINNER: Santino to retain the U.S. Title.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. KANE -- FALLS COUNT ANYWHERE MATCH
 
The match started with a few basic holds before weapons were quickly introduced into the action. Kane retrieved a rubber pipe from under the ring, but Orton turned the tables by bashing the pipe over Kane's back. The action then spilled to the floor and the audio picked up a few people screaming and shrieking. The action moved over the guardrail into the crowd, where the two men took turns bashing each other into various structures. Orton then landed consecutive offense and Booker said Orton is having "no mercy" on Kane tonight. Wrong PPV, Book. Kane then scored a nearfall on the floor as fans counted along with the nearfall.
 
Next, the two men brawled up the steps of the arena into a sea of people. They brawled next to a row of people wearing C.M. Punk t-shirts, then moved down the steps toward the stage/production area. Orton suddenly pulled out a wrestling move - a dropkick - to deck Kane and score a two count. He teased the RKO, but Kane blocked and landed a big boot for a nearfall on the floor.

Next, they brawled backstage, clearing random people out of the way. They moved into a side room down the hallway and exchanged right hand blows. Orton then threw Kane through a side door into a room where WWE personnel were watching the show on a monitor. Suddenly, Zack Ryder entered the scene by blasting away on Kane. Orton used the distraction to drop Kane with a back-breaker for a two count on the floor. Booker said he doesn't know what Ryder was thinking. Kane regained control of the "match" a few moments later, then blasted Orton out of the room back into the hallway.
 
Down the hallway they went, where Kane chucked an object at Orton before making a cover. The ref was slow to make the count, though, and Orton kicked out. The fight then moved back into the arena, where they fought on the stage. Orton then right-hand-punched Kane down the ramp toward the ringside area. And, back inside the ring they went at 10:30. Orton landed right hands to "Yes!" chants before landing a corner clothesline. Orton followed with a snap powerslam before rolling to the floor to retrieve a chair.
 
Back in the ring, Orton jabbed the chair into Kane's gut before cracking it over Kane's back. Another chair shot to the back. And, another. And, another. "Yes!" chants for each chair shot. Kane rolled out of the ring, though, so Orton followed out and jammed Kane into the announce table. Cole said Orton has lost it. Orton then cleared the English language announce table before Kane suddenly grabbed Orton around the neck. Orton blocked a chokeslam, though, and bashed Kane on top of the announce table. Orton then set up for and connected with his trademark elevated DDT off the announce table onto the floor. Orton made a cover, but Kane kicked out.
 
Orton and Kane reset with an RKO tease, but Kane shoved Orton into the ringpost. Kane made a cover on the floor, but Orton kicked out. Back in the ring, Kane climbed up top, but Orton sprung to his feet and crotched Kane. Orton then wanted an "evil" Superplex, as called by Lawler, and connected. Kane kicked out of a pin attempt, though. The announcers stressed that Kane seems indestructible tonight. Orton then wanted the RKO, but Kane blocked and nailed a chokeslam center-ring. Kane made a cover, but Orton kicked out in time, popping the crowd.
 
Kane, frustrated, reset with a chair involved in the proceedings. Kane wanted the Tombstone onto the chair, but Orton slipped out, ducked a clothesline, and RKO'ed Kane onto the chair to a big reaction. Orton was slow to recover, then made the cover for the three count. Orton wins.
 
WINNER: Orton at 16:45. Crazy, engaging match to start the PPV that WWE doesn't present often. (How the rest of the PPV fares after this will be interesting to see.) The story was clearly to make Kane seem like an indestructible monster within the match so it would mean more for Orton to finally score the fall. If Orton is going to be built up for a Brock Lesnar match this summer, he needed an emphatic win here after floundering on Smackdown the past six months.

2 -- BRODUS CLAY (w/Hornswoggle) vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Jack Swagger and Vickie Guerrero)
 
The vocal males were in favor of Ziggler early in this match. Chaos in and out of the ring allowed Swagger to clothesline Clay on the outside. Clay was nearly counted out, but made it back into the ring, where Ziggler went on the attack. Ziggler worked over Clay, then Clay made a comeback and started shaking and jiggling. Clay suddenly delivered The Headbutt to a running Ziggler, who flew across the ring to sell the move. Clay followed with the big splash for the pin and the win. After the match, dancing ensued before WWE replayed The Headbutt a few times.
 
WINNER: Clay at 4:17. Basic TV-level buffer match after a wild opener. The Miz and Dolph Ziggler haven't exactly been positioned as future top heels, though, to start this PPV.

3 -- IC champion BIG SHOW vs. CODY RHODES -- Intercontinental Title match -- Tables match
 
Rhodes took a big chop to the chest, then flew across the ring via giant back body drop to start the match. Rhodes rolled to the outside to try to collect himself before Show set up a table in front of the announcers. Rhodes cut off Show at the knees, though, before the action spilled into the front row. Show then tossed Rhodes back over the rail to ringside before they re-entered the ring. Show tried to throw Rhodes into a table propped up in the ringside, but Rhodes ran off the table and transitioned in mid-air into a beautiful disaster kick. That was quite innovative.
 
The match moved to the floor again, and Show dismantled Rhodes, who complained about a hip injury. Show then landed another chop to the chest before rolling Rhodes into the ring. Rhodes rolled back out the other side to collect himself, but Show caught up with him and landed a knock-down clothesline. Rhodes sold an eye injury and called over the ref, but Show picked him up and rolled Rhodes back into the ring.
 
As Show was about to climb back into the ring, Rhodes dropkicked him lightly. To regain his balance, Show stepped through a table ringside and stopped when he realized his boo-boo. The ref saw it, then called for the bell, giving Rhodes the win because Show "went through a table" with his foot. Rhodes is the new IC champ.
 
Post-match: Rhodes celebrated, then Show got his heat back with a big mid-ring spear. The vocal males booed Show, who welcomed it. Show then set up a table center-ring as Cole called this poor sportsmanship. Show grabbed Rhodes and delivered a big chokeslam through a table as the vocal males booed and the casual fans cheered Show. Show, frustrated, started to leave the ring, but paused when he saw the broken table that cost him the match. Show then picked up Rhodes - now with a torn-up back - and tossed him clear over the top rope through a table in front of the announcers. Cody sold the impact before Show left the ring with his music playing. They replayed Cody's rough night at the office before showing Rhodes being tended to by refs and medics ringside. Rhodes eventually made it to his feet to hobble away with possession of the title.
 
WINNER: Rhodes at 4:37 to capture the IC Title. Exactly what the TV build-up and stipulation foretold - Rhodes gets a "win" to regain the title without Show having to lose. Then, Show stood tall in the post-match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 01:20 pm
4 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- World Hvt. Title match -- 2/3 Falls match
 
Once the bell sounded, the two men engaged in a basic tie-up. And, 18 seconds is gone with no fall. Lawler noted he looked down at his watch to make sure 18 seconds has passed. Sheamus teased an early Brogue Kick, then smiled and told Bryan he was "that close." More feeling-out as the crowd chanted, "Yes! Yes!" Suddenly, Sheamus busted out a Texas Cloverleaf center-ring. Sheamus had trouble maintaining the hold, though, and Bryan reached the bottom rope for a break. Sheamus followed with a big clothesline, but Bryan came back with a clothesline of his own. Bryan then baseball kicked Sheamus to the outside.
 
On the floor, Sheamus caught Bryan flying off the apron and smashed Bryan back-first into the guardrail. Big visual and loud noise to sell the impact. Back in the ring, Bryan crotched Sheamus on the top rope, then went on the attack. Meanwhile, the crowd picked up a dueling chant of "Daniel Bryan / Eight-teen-seconds." Bryan slapped on a submission hold wrenching Sheamus's right arm every which way before using his foot to push Sheamus's shoulder down to the mat for a two count.
 
Bryan continued the assault, including choking Sheamus on the middle rope. Bryan broke the hold, then went old-school dramatically telling the ref that he has until five, before going back to the shoulder. Sheamus then made a comeback with a clothesline, shoulder, and big knee lift. Bryan tried to recover on the apron, but Sheamus blasted away with ten big forearm strikes to the chest. Sheamus followed with an overhead slam for a two count. But, he lost control airballing a corner attack, then Bryan rolled up Sheamus for a close nearfall.
 
At 11:00, Bryan took Sheamus up-top, but Sheamus knocked him down to the mat and landed a big shoulder block for a close nearfall of his own. As the wrestlers reset, Booker endorsed Bryan as the real deal and championship-material. Bryan then ducked a clothesline and Sheamus went flying over the top rope to the outside. Bryan then tried a flying suicide dive, but Sheamus blocked with a forearm from the outside. Back in the ring, Sheamus tried to finish off Bryan, but Bryan countered. Sheamus then blocked the "Yes! Lock" twice...then a third time. Sheamus suddenly went flying shoulder-first into the corner turnbuckle, and Bryan capitalized by ramming Sheamus shoulder-first into the ringpost twice. It's worth noting the ref was not counting a ten count.
 
Back in the ring, Bryan teed off on Sheamus with multiple kick strikes. Bryan continued to kick away at Sheamus, drawing the ref's ire and a five count. The ref then called for the end of the fall, giving Sheamus a DQ first fall. Well, that goes against Lilian's pre-show announcement that the winner will be a combination of two pinfalls and submissions. It's also inconsistent with the ref not counting a ten-count ringside.
 
*** Sheamus 1, Bryan 0 via DQ at 14:30 ***
 
After a brief pause, Bryan immediately went to the "Yes! Lock" center-ring. Sheamus sold that he was fading as the announcers said the ref should declare Sheamus unconscious. Sheamus sold life momentarily, but Bryan re-applied the hold and the ref was forced to call for the bell, giving Bryan the second fall.
 
*** Bryan 1, Sheamus 1 via submission at 16:40 ***
 
After the second fall, medics checked on Sheamus as Bryan chanted, "Yes! Yes!" over again. The crowd joined in, creating a hot atmosphere as Sheamus continued to be checked on by medics. The camera zoomed in tight on Sheamus, who said he can continue. The medics continued to evaluate Bryan, who orchestrated a dueling "Yes! No!" chant. Sheamus struggled to his feet as the ref and medics continued to evaluate Sheamus. The ref then called for a re-start of the action, Bryan charged Sheamus, and Sheamus blasted Bryan with a Brogue Kick out of nowhere. Great sequence. Sheamus was slow to make the cover, though, before covering Bryan for a two count only. "And, we continue," Cole said.
 
Champ and Challenger reset at 20:00 with the two men slow to their feet. Bryan was the first man to land offense with a kick strike. They started trading bombs before Bryan blasted Sheamus with a kick to the side of the head. Bryan made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in time. Bryan tried a top-rope attack next, but Sheamus cut him off with his good arm. Sheamus and Bryan battled up-top before Bryan headbutted Sheamus to the mat. Bryan then stood tall on the turnbuckle, flew off the top, but missed with a diving headbutt.
 
Sheamus came up hot with a comeback at 22:20. Sheamus delivered the Irish Curse backbreaker before surveying the crowd and pounding his chest. Sheamus wanted to end the match and absolutely destroyed Bryan with a Brogue Kick that Bryan sold by going inside-out. Sheamus then made a quick cover for the pin and the win. Sheamus is still World champ. Afterward, they replayed the finish before Sheamus left the ring with possession of the gold. Lawler asked if there's any way for Bryan to blame that loss on A.J. "No," Cole said dejectedly.
 
WINNER: Sheamus 2-1 falls at 22:55. Excellent, excellent bout. Bryan was phenomenal in defeat and Sheamus came out of this looking strong headed into the next chapter of his title run. I didn't expect A.J. to get involved, so that was good to keep the Bryan-A.J. story off the PPV and on TV. It will be interesting to see what they do with Bryan following the PPV, and how he will try to blame A.J. for the loss. (***3/4)

5 -- RYBACK vs. AARON RELIC & JAY HATTON -- handicap match
 
Once the bell sounded, the crowd chanted, "Goldberg." After Ryback dismantled the first jobber, the crowd chanted Goldberg's name again. Ryback then destroyed the second jobber before pinning both men. Backstage, Santino and Khali commented in an indiscernible language. After a replay of the "match," Ryback shouted that he needs more.

WINNER: Ryback at 1:51. Another buffer match trying to get mid-card stars on PPV. Fine to space out the big matches and let the audience take a breather.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 01:22 pm
6 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. CHRIS JERICHO -- WWE Title match -- Chicago Street Fight
 
Once the bell sounded, the two men remained in their corners. Punk, who did not remove his t-shirt, charged at Jericho, who met him center-ring. They traded blows to make this feel like a fight, then Jericho retreated to the outside. Punk smashed Jericho, then found a Kendo stick under the ring and used it to blast away at Jericho in the ring. Punk tried a wild swing, but missed, and Jericho slipped to the outside to run away. Punk chased him down inside the ring, then landed a big clothesline. Punk followed with a Kendo stick to the back, then pointed to his sister to say that one was for her. Jericho then grabbed the referee to hide, which allowed him to thumb Punk in the eye when Punk took his eye off the ball.
 
Jericho, with his first offense of the night, popped Punk in the gut with a Kendo stick, then dropkicked Punk off the ring apron to the floor. Jericho arrogantly raised his arm in the air to celebrate his offense, then followed to the outside to inflict more damage. Back in the ring, Jericho removed a top turnbuckle pad and threw it down at Punk, who suddenly came back with Ric Flair chops. Punk went for a corner knee, but Jericho side-stepped and dumped Punk to the floor.
 
On the floor, Jericho removed the padding from the guardrail area right in front of Punk's family. Jericho taunted Punk's family, then Punk's sister reached back and slapped Jericho. Jericho paused to sell, then lunged at Punk's sister, but Punk came out of nowhere with a big splash to Jericho's back. Punk went nuts, clearing the announce table, before slamming Jericho onto the announce table lid. Punk then removed his t-shirt and stalked Jericho. He wanted a piledriver on the floor, but Jericho back-dropped Punk to the floor. Jericho then smashed a TV monitor across Punk's back before breaking the announce table lid across Punk's back.
 
Back in the ring, Jericho made a cover for a nearfall. Jericho then settled into a mathold working over Punk's back. Punk suddenly tried a high-flying move, but stumbled off the top rope and Jericho capitalized with multiple Kendo stick shots. Jericho taunted Punk, telling him to look at his sister and calling him a drunk. Punk suddenly went for a small package, drawing a two count, then Jericho cut off Punk with a step-up enziguiri. Next, Jericho went under the ring to retrieve a can of beer. In the ring, Jericho raised the beer in the air before pouring it over Punk's head.
 
Jericho then went back under the ring to grab another beer. Jericho started chugging the beer, so Punk back-kicked him before cracking the Kendo stick over Jericho's back. Punk then scored with a Kendo stick-aided leg whip off the ropes to deck Jericho. "C-M-Punk" chant as Punk delivered his combination high knee and bulldog. Punk then crotched Jericho with the Kendo stick before calling for the end. Jericho slipped out of the GTS, though, and the two men countered each other, resulting in a stalemate.
 
At 14:00, they reset with Punk deciding to go up top. Jericho scrambled to the corner, though, and crotched Punk. Jericho then lit up Punk with chops and slaps before climbing up top. However, Punk fought him off, then gathered himself, and came off the top with a Macho Man elbow drop, but Jericho kicked out of a pin in-time. A light "Randy Savage" chant followed, then Jericho landed a bulldog after slipping out of the GTS. Jericho gathered himself before trying the Lionsault, but Punk blocked. Jericho blocked the GTS, though, before running Punk head-first into a chair wedged in the corner.
 
Jericho hit the Codebreaker out of nowhere, but didn't make a cover. He opted for the Liontamer, which he transitioned into the Walls of Jericho. Punk reached the bottom rope for a break, but there are no breaks in a Street Fight, so Punk pulled them through the ropes for him to reach down and grab a fire extinguisher outside the ring. Jericho didn't see Punk grab the extinguisher, though, and Punk sprayed him in the face to break the hold. Punk then jabbed the extinguisher into Jericho's gut to knock him to the floor. On the outside, Punk placed Jericho on the Spanish announce table before going back into the ring. The crowd roared, wanting a top-rope dive, then Punk positioned himself up-top. Punk nearly lost his balance, but recovered, smiled, raised his arms in the air, and flew onto Jericho through the table with a big elbow.
 
After a pause for the move to sink in and for both men to sell the effects, Punk slowly rolled Jericho back into the ring, then slowly made a cover, but Jericho kicked out. Punk followed right up with his submission center-ring. Jericho had nowhere to go, but he grabbed a Kendo stick. Jericho dropped the stick, though, but then grabbed it again and smashed Punk with the stick over Punk's head multiple times to finally break the hold. Big counter. They reset, then Jericho smashed Punk with a codebreaker into a chair. Booker gave away a kick-out saying there will be a new champion, then Punk kicked out of a pin attempt.
 
At 24:20, Jericho got up, angered, and told Punk to stay down and give up. Jericho then slowly lifted Punk to his feet before setting up for Punk's GTS finisher. Jericho arrogantly walked around the ring before declaring he's the Best in the World. Punk countered the GTS, though, and catapulted Jericho into the exposed turnbuckle. Punk then followed right up with the GTS center ring, and it was good for the pin and the win. Big crowd reaction, then Punk's sister was shown celebrating on the front row. Cole said Punk proved something tonight by taking everything Jericho had to dish out and more. After a replay of the high points, Punk was shown jumping into the crowd to celebrate with his hometown fans and family members.
 
WINNER: Punk at 25:15 to retain the WWE Title. That was a heck of a Street Fight as a standalone fight, and went to the next level incorporating elements from their Mania match, the TV build-up, Jericho's heel character, and Punk's resiliency. It looks like Punk-Jericho is over, but they could have Jericho do something on TV to push for another re-match at Over the Limit next month. (****1/4)

7 -- Divas champion NIKKI BELLA (w/Brie Bella) vs. MYSTERY OPPONENT -- Divas Title match
 
The Bellas came to the ring first and Lawler suggested he give them a massage since they look a little tense. Before her mystery opponent came out, Nikki cut a promo vowing to be the longest-reigning Divas champion in WWE history. Suddenly, Lay-Cool's music hit. Layla (not Michelle McCool) came out, making her in-ring return after a year-long absence. After a back-and-forth, Layla scored a quick pinfall to win the title in her return match.
 
WINNER: Layla at 2:45 to capture the Divas Title. It looks like the Bellas are out, then WWE will transition to Kharma and Layla in a feud after Eve name-dropped Kharma backstage. It's potentially Awesome Kong vs. Gail Kim from TNA's early Knockouts division brought to WWE TV.
 
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 30 2012, 01:22 pm
8 -- JOHN CENA vs. BROCK LESNAR -- Extreme Rules match
 
Once the bell sounded, Lesnar charged right at Cena and tackled him mid-ring. Lesnar lit up Cena with right hands, then smashed him with a clothesline. Cena was busted wide open and the ref pulled out his gloves to check on Cena. After a pause, Lesnar went back on the attack with more massive blows to Cena's head. A medic entered the ring to check on Cena as they replayed Lesnar's match-opening shots to the head. Back live, Cena suddenly tried to tackle Lesnar, but Lesnar tackled him and landed more blows to the head. Lesnar continued to blast away at Cena before landing a big knee to the gut. Lesnar then knocked Cena to the outside and told him to come bring it on. The announcers sold awe as Lesnar bounced around in the ring and smiled.
 
Cena slowly re-entered the ring before a medic checked on Cena again as the crowd booed. Cena then waved off the medic, then caught Lesnar with a back-elbow. Cena suddenly tried the AA, but Lesnar blocked and landed two German suplexes. Lesnar then stalked Cena, but Cena fought back with back elbows. Cena then smashed Lesnar into the ref, who was bumped to the outside. Lesnar then smashed Cena off the ropes with a big shoulder tackle to cut off Cena.
 
They reset with Lesnar stalking Cena, who was covered in blood. Lesnar then placed Cena in a submission hold inside the ropes and Cena screamed out in pain. Lesnar eventually knocked Cena to the outside before bouncing around inside the ring. On the floor, Lesnar slapped on a submission before ramming Cena into the guardrail in front of the two young Cena fans on the front row who must be traumatized after tonight's show. Back in the ring, Lesnar grabbed Cena's chain, but then dropped the chain, conveying that he doesn't need a weapon to finish off Cena. Lesnar then smashed Cena in the ribs before grabbing the chain again. Lesnar wrapped Cena's ankles together with the chain before taunting Cena to get up.
 
At 8:30, Lesnar hung Cena upside-down in the corner before taunting Cena some more. Lesnar teed off on Cena with right hands before snapping his left arm down toward the mat. Lesnar then walked to the other side of the ring to check on the ref, who was still KO'ed. Lesnar saw Cena get up, so he went after Cena, who fought back with right hands before Lesnar whipped Cena into the ring steps. Lesnar smirked, then walked back over to the ref and tossed him back into the ring.
 
At 11:00, Cena tried to climb back into the ring, where Lesnar awaited. Suddenly, Cena teased the AA, but Lesnar blocked and hit the F5 center-ring. In the process, the ref was KO'ed again. Lesnar made a cover, waited for a second referee, and Cena kicked out. Lesnar then destroyed the second ref since he's untouchable due to the demands Laurinaitis signed. This is great making Lesnar seem like he's untouchable and is too dangerous for WWE. A third ref came to ringside as Cole said Laurinaitis's agreement is "biting him in the *** right now."
 
Lesnar placed ring steps in the ring as the intensity picked up in the arena. Lesnar stood tall on the ring steps, then Cena tried to fight back, but Lesnar slapped on another arm submission trying to break Cena's arm. The crowd picked up a dueling chant as Cena fought the hold, then suddenly lifted Lesnar a few feet off the ground before slamming Lesnar back-first on the ring steps. Cena then slowly went up top and went for a guillotine, but Lesnar moved and Cena ate the mat. Cena rolled out of the ring as the crowd came down from Level 8 to Level 3. In the ring, Lesnar stood on the ring steps again to taunt Cena, who slowly made his way back into the ring.
 
Once Cena entered the ring, Lesnar bounced off the ropes, then flew off the ring steps into a flying splash onto Cena, taking both men off the ring apron to the floor. That was a sick risk. Lesnar came up selling his left knee, then medics checked on Lesnar. Lesnar limped it off, then smiled and lifted his arms in the air. Cole called him sick. But, in the background, Cena wrapped the chain around his fist. Lesnar then wanted another flying splash, but Cena popped Lesnar in the head with the chain. Cena then entered Super Cena mode and begged Lesnar to get up. Cena got himself fired up, stalked a now-bloody Lesnar, wanted the AA on the ring steps, waited, and delivered the AA on the ring steps. Cena made a cover on the ring steps and scored a pin for the win. The crowd exploded for an emphatic finish to an intense match/fight/brawl/spectacle.
 
WINNER: Cena at 17:43. This PPV went exactly how I thought it would until the outcome here with Lesnar losing. It felt like WWE realized they needed to protect Cena, as it could kill their star to lose another big PPV main event twice in the same month. Where they go from here with Cena was spelled out in the post-match. Where they go from here with Lesnar will be really interesting. As for the match, it was super-intense, had good storytelling with Lesnar the big, bad bully dominating and offering physicality not seen in years, and gave Lesnar his "out" by getting about five wins before Cena got the decisive pinfall. (***1/2)
 
Post-match: Medics and refs hit the ring to check on Cena, who told a medic that his left arm is "f-----." The announcers covered for Lesnar, saying this match had to be stopped on two separate occasions before Cena came back for the win. Lesnar acted punch-drunk ringside, ready to fight some more. It was like Triple H at WM27 standing tall while the winner was barely alive in the ring. After replays of Lesnar dominating Cena before Cena won, they showed Cena standing tall in the ring, his face covered in blood. Cole said Cena knows he was in the fight of his life. Lawler said Cena never would have been the same if he lost here after losing to The Rock at WrestleMania.
 
Cena then took a mic and sat down on the ring steps. He said he's probably going to get sent home for speaking when he's not supposed to (trying to sell this as a shoot), but he's going home anyways. Cena said this might be C.M. Punk's town, but this is also a wrestling town. He said the people were supposed to see an extreme show tonight and he's proud it was in Chicago. The crowd cheered. Cena said all of them - bad guys, good guys, everyone - give everything they have every night. Cena said if he's going to take a vacation, it was a great way to go out. Cena said if he's going out, there's no other way he would want to leave. Cena dropped the mic and slowly left the ring, still selling the arm from Lesnar's submissions. They signed off at 9:57, three minutes before the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 01 2012, 04:37 pm
WWE RAW Results: 4-30-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60937.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. THE MIZ -- Beat the Clock Challenge -- non-title match

Cole said they will have medical updates on Hunter throughout the night and Lawler said Lesnar has been escorted out of the building. As for Miz and Santino, they started with back-and-forth action before Santino sold a left knee injury. Miz then smashed Santino with a kick to the chest, followed by a kick to the face for a two count. Miz slowed down the pace, which the announcers noted is not smart strategy. The clock moved past 3:00 as the crowd chanted for the Cobra. Santino then made a comeback before dropping the Sailor's Salute headbutt.

Santino reached into his trunks to grab the Cobra, but Miz ducked the finisher. Miz then rolled up Santino, but Santino countered for a two count. Miz then popped Santino in the face with a boot to the head before grappling Santino for the Skullcrushing Finale. Miz made the pin for the win. Cole called the time as 4:19, but the clock showed 4:18. My timer showed 04:18:652. Cole then went with the graphic, which showed 4:18. So, that's the official time to beat.

WINNER: Miz at 4:18/4:19. Solid TV match that the crowd was engaged in. Classic Even-Steven with Miz getting his win back after the PPV last night.

2 -- Divas champion LAYLA vs. BRIE BELLA vs. NIKKI BELLA -- three-way Divas Title match

The Bellas argued with each other, so Layla dropkicked them into each other, then rolled up one of the Bellas for a quick win. Post-match, the Bellas argued ringside before they replayed the "match" as Layla celebrated on the way out.

WINNER: Layla at 0:15 to retain the Divas Title. And, that gets the re-match clause out of the way and apparently ends the Bellas's WWE run for now. No Kharma, though.

3 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. BIG SHOW -- Beat the Clock Challenge

Show quickly attacked a bandaged Jericho, who was sporting athletic tape over his right elbow. Jericho absorbed an early attack before kicking Show at the legs to begin working over the big man. Jericho then tried coming off the top rope, but Show intercepted with a giant hand to the chest. Show wanted to follow with a Vader Bomb, but Jericho moved. Jericho then landed the Lionsault, but sold a neck injury and could only score a two count on a pin attempt. Big Show suddenly went for a small package roll-up, but Jericho escaped the pin attempt. Jericho followed with a DDT as the clock ticked down. Jericho checked the clock, then charged Show, who nailed him with a spear. Show covered, but Jericho kicked out. They cut to a shot of Miz watching the match backstage.

With one minute left on the clock, Show stood up and teased the WMD, but Jericho ducked. Jericho then tried the Codebreaker, but Show lifted Jericho into the air. Jericho then used his momentum to pull Show over the top rope to the floor. Both men crashed to the floor as the ref began a ten count. 20 seconds on the clock. Show then went flying over the guardrail as Jericho returned to ringside. Jericho pulled himself back into the ring and the buzzer sounded just before the ref hit a ten count to count out Show. So, Jericho wins, but he didn't beat the clock. Cole said he beat the time, though. Lawler said he doesn't think Jericho beat the time. As Show sold anguish, Lawler said they'll sort it out when they come back.

WINNER: Jericho via count-out at 4:20. A made-for-TV special with a sense of urgency in the ring that the crowd bought into.

4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. JTG

After the bell sounded, Lawler claimed JTG has a strategy for Clay tonight. JTG landed a boot to the gut, but Clay bounced him off the ropes before delivering a big shoulder tackle. JTG tried to come back by going after the knees, but Clay brushed him aside and delivered The Headbutt followed by his big splash for the pin and the win. After the match, Clay brought two boys and a girl into the ring for the post-match dance celebration.

WINNER: Clay at 1:40.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- Beat the Clock Challenge

4:18 is the time to beat. Orton scored a close nearfall early on as Cole noted Orton is a former nine-time champion. Swagger suddenly delivered a flying Vader Bomb out of the corner before stalking Orton for a gutwrench, but Orton slipped out and delivered his fallaway backbreaker. Orton then went for a clothesline, but Swagger ducked and smashed Orton's left knee with a spear. Orton followed with a shoulder tackle as the crowd rallied with a loud "RKO" chant. Swagger continued to wear down Orton, drawing questions from Lawler on whether he was taking too long.

Swagger checked the clock and went for another Vader Bomb, but Orton popped to his feet and kicked Swagger in the gut in mid-air. Orton made a full comeback before setting up for and connecting with the second-rope spike DDT. With 35 seconds remaining, Orton got the crowd fired up going to That Place. He wanted the RKO, but Swagger ducked and slapped on the Anklelock. Swagger checked the clock and tried to apply more pressure, but Orton flung him away and dropped Swagger with the RKO. Orton made a cover with two seconds to spare, setting a new time. Backstage, Miz sold frustration with Orton beating his time.

WINNER: Orton at 4:16 to set a new time. Nice showcase for both men, especially Swagger, who needed something. For Orton, it's a solid TV win, and he won't lose anything if someone else beats his time.

6 -- WWE tag champions PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) vs. R-TRUTH & KOFI KINGSTON -- WWE Tag Title match

Cole noted AW has approached the tag champs in recent weeks to inquire about a business relationship. The challengers cleared the heel champs to the outside and WWE cut to break one minute into the match.

Back from break, Truth scored a two count on a pin attempt on Primo. Lawler slipped in some news that he received during the break that Triple H's arm "is indeed broken." Cole wondered what's going to happen to Lesnar in the future. In the ring, the heels cut off Truth after Truth attempted a comeback. After Primo worked over Truth some more, Truth suddenly nailed a leg whip before leaping across the ring to tag in Kingston. Kingston came flying off the top with a springboard smash on Epico, who also tagged in. Chaos ensued moments later involving Rosa, then Kofi caught Epico with Trouble in Paradise. Kofi with the pin and the win for new tag champs. Post-match, the new champs celebrated as Rosa tried to figure out how this happened.

WINNERS: Kingston & Truth at 7:03. Well, WWE did close to nothing with Primo & Epico as tag champs, so it's time to see if another team can build momentum.

7 -- GREAT KHALI vs. KANE -- Beat the Clock Challenge

This is the fourth Beat the Clock Challenge match, with one more to go. Kane quickly chopped down Khali to begin wearing him down. The crowd was not interested as Kane beat down Khali before he went up top for a flying clothesline. Kane made a cover, but Khali kicked out. Kane checked the clock as Lawler noted these two men are not built for speed.

Under a minute, Khali scored with his first offense of the match. Khali ran over Kane with clotheslines, then delivered The Chop, but Kane rolled to the outside. Khali, dumbfounded, decided to head over the top rope to the floor to retrieve Kane. The fight continued ringside before Khali tossed Kane back inside the ring. In the ring, Kane grappled a slow-moving Khali. Khali then grappled him, too, and the clock expired with the two men standing there.

Post-match: The crowd booed the result and the match, so Kane decided to chokeslam Khali to end the segment. Kane, frustrated, stormed out of the ring as Orton was shown clapping backstage.

WINNER: No Contest at 4:16. Well, it's over now.

8 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. JERRY LAWLER -- Beat the Clock Challenge

The final BTCC match started with Bryan blasting away at Lawler before scoring an early nearfall. Bryan landed consecutive right hands that drew audible "Yes!" chants from the pocket of vocal males. Bryan continued go after Lawler before they showed Orton watching nervously backstage. Lawler then side-stepped a corner attack before going to the second rope for his trademark fist drop. Lawler covered, but Bryan kicked out in time. Lawler then wanted the piledriver, but Bryan back-dropped out. Bryan followed with a kick to the head before slapping on the Yes! Lock. Lawler tapped out rather quickly, giving Bryan the win. He's the new #1 contender.

WINNER: Bryan via submission at 2:20 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. WWE is obviously marketing this PPV toward hardcore fans with a Punk-Bryan title match. Of course, they can unfairly blame both men if the PPV doesn't draw on a very fast turnaround following Mania and the big Lesnar-Cena PPV last night.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 02 2012, 04:11 am
Ring of Honor TV Results: 4-28-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_60965.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - ROH World Tag Team Champions JAY & MARK BRISCOE vs. CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRICK ALEXANDER – Proving Ground match

Kelly discussed the Briscoes upcoming ROH World Tag Team title defense against WGTT in a Fight Without Honor at the upcoming “Border Wars” at iPPV. The Briscoes worked over Alexander, but he managed to tag in Coleman, who ran wild on the Briscoes. Jay ducked a kick and hit a chokeslam on Coleman. That move looks so odd when it’s not a big man doing it. Mark tagged in and walked the ropes before dropping an elbow on Coleman, which drew a pop from the crowd. Coleman escaped the Briscoes moments later and tagged in Alexander, who ran wild. The announcers touched on the excellent Elgin vs. Richards match during WrestleMania weekend and hinted at possible dissension in the House of Truth between Strong and Elgin. The Briscoes turned the tide and hit a tandem neckbreaker on Alexander with Coleman down on the outside.

Coleman shoved Jay off the top to the outside. WGTT then ran out and nailed Jay with a low blow that the ref didn’t see it. Coleman hit a running hurricanrana on Mark and Alexander followed up with a big splash off the top for the win.

Winners: Cedrick Alexander & Caprice Coleman – This was a good, short television match. The announcers got a chance to highlight the ongoing war between the Briscoes and WGTT while touching on several highlights from the WrestleMania weekend shows. The way Alexander & Coleman won the match doesn’t exactly establish them as credible threats to the ROH World Tag Team titles, although they are certainly deserving of being booked in that position.

2 - - RHINO (w/Truth Martini) vs. VINNY MARSEGLIA

Rhino went to town on Marseglia and hit the gore for the pin.

Winner: Rhino – That was a good and effective squash.

3 - - ROH TV Champion RODERICK STRONG (w/Truth Martini) vs. ADAM COLE

Cole caught Strong with a neckbreaker during the early going for a 2 count. Strong fired back with some chops a short time later. Cole caught Strong with a boot in the corner and hit an elbow off the second rope for another 2 count. Kelly said Strong and lucked into a title opportunity during WrestleMania weekend with Ciampa goading Lethal into putting his title on the line against Strong. Strong got the upper hand and put the boots to Cole in the corner. Kelly put over Elgin on commentary and said his match against Richards at “Showdown in the Sun: Day 2” was a must-have for your DVD collection. Strong continued to work over Cole, focusing on his back. Kelly said Steen would face O’Reilly next week on television. Kelly pitched to a commercial break.

They came back from commercial with Cole trying to mount a comeback. Strong cut him off and hit a big backbreaker for a nearfall. Cole tried to fire back against with punches. He finally ducked a charge from Strong in the corner and took him down with a flurry of offense. Cole then got a nearfall with a dropkick. McGuinness wondered if he would be able to finish off Strong with his German suplex. Elgin came down to ringside. Cole hit a flying knee on Strong for another 2 count. Strong caught Cole by surprise with a rollup for a 2 count. Strong avoided a charge in the corner and hit a gut buster for a 2 count. Cole countered a suplex and dropped Strong head-first onto his knee for a nearfall. Cole went for a slingshot, but Strong shoved him into Elgin on the outside. Cole rolled up Strong and when Strong kicked out he hit a dive through the ropes on Elgin. Cole hit the cross body that pinned Richards on Strong, but Strong kicked out at the last second. Martini nailed Cole with the Book of Truth with the ref trying to hold back Elgin. Strong then hit a huge backbreaker on Cole for the win.

Kelly quickly mentioned Ciampa-Taven and Steen-O’Reilly as being scheduled for next week on ROH television before the show ended.

Winner: Roderick Strong to retain the ROH TV title – A very good main event that played into the ongoing tension being teased between Strong and Elgin. They also protected Cole nicely by having Martini’s interference cost him the win.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2012, 02:31 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-2-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61028.shtml)

1 - TYSON KIDD & ALEX RILEY vs. JTG & JOHNNY CURTIS (w/Maxine) - Tag Team Match

Kidd tries a quick schoolboy on Curtis for one. Regal pretends to be concerned about Maxine, and she complains that her wrist hurts and she's been putting Vaseline on it every day. Regal says that he's passing on the obvious joke there. Kidd shows off his technical acumen, and Maxine is acting miserable. Kidd is insanely phenomenal, as he puts on a 3-plus-star match every time he enters the ring. Riley tags in, but Curtis is able to get JTG in. JTG eats a huge hip toss for two.

JTG takes over as Maxine tries to sweet-talk Regal. Mathews reminds her of her history as Riley lands a spinebuster on JTG and clears Curtis from the ring. Riley to the top rope, but Curtis provides a distraction for JTG to throw Riley to the mat for two.

Curtis is controlling Riley out of the break, and JTG tags in. Riley gets some separation, but Curtis tags in before Riley gets Kidd in the game.

There's some inconsistency on commentary, as Maxine acts like she has to be with Curtis all day long, but last week it was said that they only need to be chained together on NXT. Curtis and JTG continue to isolate Riley, then Riley with a sunset flip on Curtis, and we hear someone calling spots. The crowd is rallying behind Riley, but they can't get him out of the corner. Maxine ticks off a list of Curtis's flaws, and JTG lands the Mugshot for two. Regal lauds JTG for showing Curtis how to work in a tag team. Riley fights off a superplex from Curtis, then plants him with a top-rope clothesline.

Double tag and Kidd goes nuts on JTG. Side Russian legsweep from the second rope gets two for Kidd. So nice. Curtis interferes, but Riley helps him clear the field, then Kidd lands a dive over the top on JTG and Curtis. Kidd locks on the "Dungeon Lock" (Kidd's new submission finisher) and JTG's tapping like mad.

WINNERS: Tyson Kidd & Alex Riley in 12:30. (Asst. Editor's Note: This ends Alex Riley's 14-match losing streak in TV/online matches.) Curtis and JTG managed to not bore despite a very long beat down on Riley; the commentary enhanced the match by giving the audience something to sink their teeth into during what would normally be the bathroom break portion of the match. Also, Maxine is doing an outstanding job with her sulkin;, she actually sounded almost exactly like my sister when she's upset, both in tone and in content. Brilliant. If NXT was still on TV, Maxine would be getting an Emmy.

2. PERCY WATSON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Watson takes it to McGillicutty, playing up his anger. Watson has changed up his offense a bit, with a series of jumping knee strikes. McGillicutty turns it around, and focuses on Watson's taped knee. McGillicutty takes Watson down hard by the leg and the ref insists on checking Watson.

Watson is struggling to stay alive out of the break. Mathews has been criticizing Regal's decisions all match. McGillicutty locks in a figure-four for a lengthy submission hold fight. Watson finally is able to punch his way out, but hobbles to the corner. Watson gets fired up and tees off on McGillicutty, but McGillicutty reverses a whip and goes back to work on the knee. Watson kicks McGillicutty through the ropes to get some space.

McGillicutty re-enters, and Watson is finally able to get some offense in. Watson with a knee-lift into a jumping neckbreaker for two. Watson wants the Percycution, but McGillicutty slips out and lands the Turning Heads neckbreaker for the win.

WINNER: Michael McGillicutty in 11:30. I don't think it makes McGillicutty look good to take so long to put away an already-injured Watson.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2012, 02:33 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-3-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61068.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - MASON RYAN vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

If Ziggler doesn't win in under five minutes, I riot...

Matt Striker and Scott Stanford are in the booth, one of my favorite pairs. The bell rings and Ziggler immediately hits a dropkick and takes it to Ryan. Ryan comes back with a big press to a drop, and Ziggler rolls out of the ring. Ryan now has a ponytail, so he looks like a muscled-up Steven Seagal. Ryan tosses Ziggler into the ring, and Striker suggests that Ryan needs a manager. Will this lead to him joining AW's stable?

Ziggler hits Ryan's knees and gets some offense in. Striker compares Ryan to Ken Patera - that's laughable - and asks if anyone's physique compares to him. Umm, Chris Masters? Ziggler is trying to rip Ryan's head off with a cravat of sorts, using a bridge for extra leverage. Ryan makes a comeback for a moment, but Ziggler takes it to him and moves to a side chinlock on the mat. Ryan then stands up and throws Ziggler off him. Ryan gets a head of steam with the "Ryan Express," as Striker terms it, but Ziggler dodges a charge and hits the Zig-Zag for the win. Post-match, Striker reiterated Ryan's need for a manager.

WINNER: Dolph Ziggler at 5:10. That's the precise, bell-to-bell time, so I guess it's time to have a riot of one. Well, at least the booking was right, and Mason Ryan should definitely be in the Ezekiel Jackson category of "useful to give someone a win over a visually-impressive big-man" at his current skill level.

2 - ZACK RYDER vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Ryder makes the "call me" sign at McGillicutty. McGillcutty with a Swagger-like takedown to start the match. The crowd is hot for Ryder, who fights out of the corner and takes over the match for a hot moment. McGillicutty kicks Ryder's legs out and starts to work over Ryder with power. Ryder flapjacks McGillicutty, then clotheslines him out of the ring. Ryder with a slingshot plancha and rolls McGillicutty back in. McGillicutty ambushes him on the way in.

Ryder is struggling to get traction out of the break. Ryder eventually gets some sustained offense, with his traditional comeback, and a Broski Boot gets a nearfall. McGillicutty counters the Rough Ryder and sends Ryder into the turnbuckle. Ryder bounces out of the corner a few moments later to land the Rough Ryder for the win.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 7:00. Decent match. Ryder is consistently "decent" and McGillicutty has been improving by leaps and bounds.

3 - GREAT KHALI vs. JINDER MAHAL

This is becoming the default Superstars match lately, like when Cryme Tyme fought the Hart Dynasty literally every week for months. The only difference is Tyson Kidd isn't in the ring and even Natalya couldn't distract me from Khali's poor wrestling.

Mahal makes the mistake of locking up with Khali, just like every other time I see them against each other. Mahal tries strikes, but eats a chop to the head. Khali sends him to the corner for the frying pan chop crowd-pleaser. Another corner, another chop. Khali sends Mahal over the ropes. Mahal hot-shots Khali on the ropes, then goes to work with kicks and knees using the ropes for leverage.

Mahal ducks a big boot in the corner and goes back to offense. Mahal starts to work Khali's knees - I don't know why when they've already been Tonya Harding'ed judging by the way Khali walks. Mahal to the middle rope, but gets caught on the way down. Khali starts an offensive barrage. Matt Striker: "Khali's lack of mobility is not a hindrance here, as Mahal keeps running into the Great Khali," just as Mahal runs into Khali multiple times to eat forearms. He eventually runs in again, only to be caught with the Punjabi Plunge. Three count and it's over.

WINNER: The Great Khali in 4:45. It is nearly impossible for me to watch a Khali match and not be snarky and sarcastic. He puts me in a foul mood. I've seen this match too many times in the last few months, and it never gets better. Ted DiBiase, please get better and feud with Jinder Mahal again. Or, Trent Baretta. Anyone.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2012, 02:34 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-3-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61084.shtml) Condensed here like a can of milk.

1 -- TNA Knockouts champions GAIL KIM & MADISON RAYNE vs. BROOKE TESSMACHER & VELVET SKY

Rayne and Kim blindsided both Sky and Tessmacher before it boiled down to Sky and Kim in the ring. Kim and Rayne exchanged tags and beat on Sky with some double-team maneuvers. Rayne eventually hit a heel kick on Sky for a close two count. Kim went for a top rope huracanrana, but Sky held onto the ropes and hit a bulldog on Kim which allowed her to get the hot tag. Tessmacher had a flurry of offense, but was eventually taken down with a clothesline from Kim. Kim was the victim of her own finisher as Tessmacher hit her with Eat Da Feet for the win.

WINNERS: Tessmacher & Sky via pinfall at 4:49. They have to make Tessmacher feel like a credible threat to win the title, but I feel bad for Kim for having to lose to Tessmacher three times in a row. Hopefully she picks up the win when they meet for the Knockouts Title. For the little amount of offense Tessmacher had, she looked sloppy in the ring.

2 -- TNA Television champion DEVON vs. ROBBIE T. (w/ ROBBIE E.) -- Television Title match

Robbie T. was quick to attack Devon before the bell and he laid him out with a clothesline and a shoulder tackle. He hit a front powerslam on Devon for a two count. Devon came back with a pair of flying shoulder tackles, and hit a diving headbutt off the top rope for a two count. Robbie E. distracted Devon in an attempt to allow Robbie T. to get some offense, but when that failed, he resorted to his guest list and broke it over Devon’s head as the referee called for the disqualification.

WINNER: Devon via disqualification at 2:46 to retain the TNA Television Title. Last week, I said I didn’t want to see Devon feud with Bully Ray, but I think I’d rather see that than his feud with the Robbies continue. In reality, I just rather see a wrestler who can really go like, oh, I don’t know, A.J. Styles, Kazarian, Daniels, Kid Kash, or Zema Ion just to name a few.

3 -- JEFF HARDY vs. ROB VAN DAM

Hardy tried to keep RVD grounded with a headlock, but he broke out of with and countered with a roll up on Hardy using his legs for a two count. Hardy sent RVD to the outside with a kick and followed up a flying clothesline to outside from the ring apron. Back in the ring, Hardy caught RVD with a pin attempt for a two count after Van Dam did the splits to go under Hardy after an Irish whip. After an exchange of offense, Hardy hit the Whisper in the Wind for another two count. RVD came back with a chinbreaker, a kick, and the Rolling Thunder.

As the wrestlers sold the effects of the move, Roode made his was out the ring. Once they got back up Hardy went for another Irish whip, which RVD reversed. When Hardy hit the ropes, the referee had to take a dive to avoid being hit. Roode took advantage of the situation and hit Hardy with the belt. RVD followed up with a kick to Hardy's face for the win.

WINNER: Rob Van Dam via pinfall at 4:36. Disappointing match from these two. They were only given so much time so I can’t come down too hard on them, but I expected more from an RVD and Hardy match.

4 -- TNA Tag Team champions MAGNUS & SAMOA JOE & A.J. STYLES vs. KURT ANGLE & KAZARIAN & DANIELS

Styles and Angle started the match with Styles getting a dropkick in. As Kurt was about to gain the offensive edge, Daniels tried to take advantage of a downed Styles, but Angle would have none of it and pushed Daniels down to the mat. Styles tagged in Joe, who in turn exchanged a tag with Magnus to hit some double-team offense on Angle. Magnus tagged in Styles, who proceeded to clear house until the numbers game caught up to him. Joe stepped in and sent Daniels to out for Magnus to beat on for a bit until he was ready to catch with a suicide elbow through the ropes to the outside.

Styles tried to go to the outside, but was stopped by Angle, who caught him in an anklelock. It looked like Angle had the win until Kazarian, much to the bewilderment of Angle, tagged himself in. Magnus and Joe took care of Angle and Daniels, eventually allowing Styles the opportunity to hit Kazarian with the Styles Clash for the win.

WINNERS: Magnus, Samoa Joe, and A.J. Styles via pinfall at 4:25. That was enjoyable for what it was. Another match with a ton star power relegated to perform in under five minutes. Storyline-wise, it wouldn’t make sense to have it main-event the show, but from an in-ring perspective, I would have loved to have seen these two teams go for at least 15 minutes.

5 -- TNA World Heavyweight champion BOBBY ROODE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- No DQ match

Before Roode could get to the ring, Anderson hopped out to ringside to beat on Roode. Roode came back with a Russian leg sweep into ring apron, but a failed piledriver attempt led to Anderson slingshotting Roode into the ringpost, followed by the Pittsburgh Plunge as the show cut to commercial break.

As the show came back from the break, Anderson approached a downed Roode, who threw the referee into Anderson to low blow him, even though it was already a No DQ match. Roode beat on Anderson for a little bit on the outside of the ring before bringing him back in the ring for a suplex and a knee drop for a two count.

Roode brought in a steel chair and wedged it in-between the ropes in the corner. He tried to throw Anderson into it, but he countered and threw Roode head-first into the chair. Anderson was able to capitalize with a series of strikes, a swinging neckbreaker, and a spinning wheel kick for a two count. Anderson attempted another Pittsburgh Plunge, but Roode countered with a Double R spinebuster. Hardy came out to attack Roode, but Anderson took out his frustration on Hardy with the Mic Check. Roode capitalized on the distraction and hit Anderson with a chair and a Fishermen Suplex for the win.

WINNER: Robert Roode via pinfall at 11:04. A worthy television main event, and one of Anderson’s better matches in recent memory. Roode played up his heel tendencies and delivered in the ring as well. Honestly, I would have rather see these two go at Sacrifice, more so than RVD and Roode. Not that I don’t think RVD and Roode can’t produce a good match, but I’ve just soured on RVD pretty much since his TNA run began.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 07 2012, 02:37 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-4-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_61104.shtml). Yeah, this is condensed here too...otherwise, I'd copy the whole thing and not only would it be too long to post here, you'd have no reason to check out said link, so there!

1 – SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN

This is apparently a non-title match. Fans were hot early on, but from the way things looked, it was the audio sweetener rather than the actual crowd in the arena. Bryan quickly started working over the left arm of Sheamus, continuing the assault from Extreme Rules. After Sheamus broke out of a submission move, Bryan gave Sheamus a European uppercut. Sheamus came back with forearms to the back and neck area. Running shoulder to the gut, then a running knee-lift. Bryan was clotheslined over the top and to the floor. Sheamus went to go after him, but the referee stopped him. On the opposite side of the ring, a man in a suit climbed the top rope and came splashing down onto Sheamus. It was Ricardo Rodriguez, followed soon after by Alberto Del Rio.

WINNER: Sheamus, via disqualification, at 2:49. Disappointing ending, but they had to transition from Sheamus vs. Bryan to Sheamus vs. Del Rio.

After Del Rio and Rodriguez’s attack, Bryan hooked in the Yes Lock. After referees helped Sheamus out of the ring, Bryan was shown to be in a heated discussion with Alberto Del Rio. Bryan was offended that Del Rio cost him the match. Sheamus was angrily holding his arm in the aisle as they went to break.

2 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. HUNICO & CAMACHO

Before the match could begin, AW accompanied Rosa Mendes, Epico, and Primo onto the stage. Truth danced with Little Jimmy until Hunico “slapped” Jimmy. Truth took offense to this. Unlike what I wrote a few weeks ago, it appears that THIS is in fact Camacho’s Smackdown in-ring debut. Michael Cole said AW stands for “All World,” the name of AW’s management team. Kingston was sent to the outside, where he was run over by Camacho. Back into the ring, Hunico dove onto Kingston for a near-fall at 1:27. Camacho tagged in and landed a nice back suplex. Standing leg-drop found the mark for a two-count at 2:10. Hunico tagged in and gave Kingston “two feet to the mush,” as Booker called it. Kofi fought out of the heel corner and landed a unique arm-drag on Hunico. Monkey-flip by Kofi, who then made the tag at 3:23. Camacho tagged in and bumped around for Truth. The match began to break down with all four men getting involved. Truth ended up taking out Camacho with his finisher for the win.

WINNERS: Kingston and Truth, at 4:07. Nice little match there.

3 – “THE FUNKASAURUS” BRODUS CLAY vs. JACK SWAGGER

Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero both accompanied Swagger to the ring. Clay with a belly-to-belly take-down early on, but Swagger turned the tide by going after the knee of Clay. It didn’t last long though as Clay clotheslined Swagger down. Ziggler provided a distraction which allowed Swagger to tackle Clay. Clay recovered outside the ring. Ziggler tried to launch himself off the steps and onto Brodus, but Clay headbutted Ziggler in the chest in mid-air. Back in the ring, Swagger ran into Clay, who suplexed Swagger. He went for his splash, but Swagger rolled out of the ring. Clay just laughed and shouted “my bad.” Swagger, Ziggler, and Vickie just walked out.

WINNER: Clay, via count-out, at 1:43. Nobody is coming out of this feud looking particularly good.

- Damien Sandow came out for his match. “Hallelujah” played as Sandow’s theme and he was introduced as “the intellectual savior of the masses.” Bateman was already in the ring. Sandow cut a pre-show promo, holding the mic as if it were a fine glass of brandy. Sandow, in his robe and towel, chided the fans for their “irrelevant opinion,” when the chanted “what.” Sandow refused to engage the miscreant in the ring, Bateman. He couldn’t figure out the advantage of fighting an ignoramus like Bateman. He finished by saying, “thank you.” His music played and he walked to the back. Bateman got the mic and said five months ago on NXT, he got the opportunity to have a match on Smackdown. And he wants his match against someone, anyone. I can’t believe they even bothered to reference that NXT stipulation. So Ryback’s music played and he walked out.

4 – DERRICK BATEMAN vs. RYBACK

Bateman ran into a big kick from Ryback as light “Goldberg” chants were heard. Ryback pressed Bateman over his head, then put him on his shoulders and gave him a jaw-breaker. Clothesline, then his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:12. Ryback’s winning ways continue against a slight step up in competition.

5 – KANE & CODY RHODES vs. THE BIG SHOW & RANDY ORTON

Orton and Rhodes went at it to start, with Orton bettering Rhodes for the most part. Tag to Big Show at 1:05, and he slapped Rhodes across the chest. I’m sure Cody is looking forward to not having to take hard chops to the chest every night when that feud is over with. Bodyslam by Show and a tag again to Orton. Standing dropkick, but not as pretty as his used to be. Kane was able to tag in and he took the fight to Orton in a neutral corner. Just over 3:00 in, Show tagged in and took out Rhodes, then turned his attention to the legal man, Kane. Show whipped Kane into the ropes but put his head down too soon and Kane DDT’d him. Both men were down at 3:53 when they went to break.

Back at 7:24 with Show off his feet and Rhdoes putting the boots to him. The crowd was chanting for Big Show as Kane tagged in to work him over some more. Low dropkick for two at 8:18. Show got back to a vertical base and suplexed Kane. Both men tagged their partners at 9:18. Orton set up for his vintage DDT, but Kane punched Orton. This allowed Rhodes to make the tag, but Orton caught Kane coming in and gave him the DDT. Kane countered an RKO and pushed him away – Rhodes was right there to low bridge Orton out of the ring. Orton made another comeback after Rhodes tagged in, but Rhodes cut it off with a dropkick. Rhodes and Kane seemed to work well together as a team. Orton worked out of a rest hold but Cody went for Cross Rhodes. Orton countered and back-dropped Cody. Show tagged in and cleaned house. The match broke down with Orton giving Kane an RKO. Disaster kick attempt was met with a chop to the chest by Show, then the WMD.

WINNERS: Orton and Show, at 14:15. Pretty good match, all things considered. The usual “heels dominate, faces win” trade-off.

6 – LAYLA vs. NATALYA

No entrance once again for Nattie. Layla reversed some mat-work by Natalya, who seemed bemused by this development. Wrist-lock take-over, but Layla went with the headscissors. They went to a stale-mate and both were on their feet again. Hard right hand by Natalya took Layla down. Natalya was back to playing the heel here. Twisting clothesline by Natalya for two. Abdominal stretch was next, but Layla elbowed out quickly. Layla rolled through a hip-toss for a one-count. Lay-out from out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 1:58. This was like the good first two minutes of an extended match. These two gelled pretty well.

7 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. SHEAMUS

Bryan was in the ring upon break. Sheamus had his shoulder bandaged for this match. Booker T. criticized the decision for Sheamus to take this match given his condition. Hard shot to the kisser by Sheamus put Bryan on his butt. Del Rio on commentary called Sheamus an “Irish peasant.” Sheamus backed Bryan into the corner and elbowed hi in the side of the head several times. Bryan took the advantage with kicks to the shoulder of Sheamus. Bryan used the middle rope and worked Sheamus’ shoulder with it. Sheamus caught a charging Bryan with a one-armed back-breaker. That looked impressive. He couldn’t continue the momentum though and found himself on the apron. Bryan dropkicked Sheamus in the shoulder, sending the World Champ into the barricade. They took the final break of the show at 2:45.

Back at 6:51 of the match. Bryan tossed Sheamus into the ring and continued focusing his offense on the shoulder of Sheamus. Bryan took the shoulder of Sheamus and, outside the ring again, rammed him into the ring post. Diving headbutt to the shoulder for a two-count. Bryan at least gets to show off his knowledge of holds and maneuvers in a match of this nature. Sheamus turned the tide by sending Bryan shoulder-first into the ring post. Del Rio didn’t speak much after the break, choosing to focus on the match instead. Sheamus brought blow after blow down across the chest of Bryan. Suplex from the apron to the ring by Sheamus, but his pin only got a two-count at 11:18. Irish Curse back-breaker for another two-count. Knees to the throat and chest of Bryan. Bryan snuck in a shot and climbed to the top rope. Missile dropkick for two at 12:17. Bryan ran right into a clothesline that turned him inside-out. Sheamus signaled for the end, so del Rio abandoned the announce desk and climbed on the apron. Sheamus dodged a Yes Lock by throwing Bryan into Del Rio. If they collided it was only lightly, and Del Rio fell into the ring, then scampered out before Sheamus could get him. With Sheamus’ attention on Del Rio, Bryan again went to the top. He came down and was greeted by a Brogue Kick for the pin.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 13:32.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 08 2012, 04:41 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-7-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61167.shtml) and as always, the one you're about to read is condensed to in-ring and promos.

John Laurinaitis, as Caldwell puts it, bored the crowd for 8 minutes then you knew C.M. Punk was going to come out and defy him with his usual funny comments. His punishment? Match with Lord Tensai later.

1 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. BIG SHOW -- Intercontinental Title match

Show dismantled Rhodes early on, then Rhodes avoided a WMD and bailed from the ring. He demanded his title belt and tried to leave, but Show yanked him back into the ring. Rhodes then left through the other side of the ring and got himself counted out.

WINNER: Show via count-out at 1:52; Rhodes retained the IC Title. Just getting Show's re-match clause out of the way.

Post-match: A frustrated Show got on the mic and told Rhodes to come back out here. Rhodes disappeared to the back, though, and Eve's music played. Cole spoke from Vince McMahon's psyche that everyone wants to defy authority around here in WWE and people just need to respect authority in WWE. Eve entered the ring to light "Hoeski" chants before demanding Show apologize. Show claimed he was just horsing around. Eve cut him off and demanded an apology to everyone. Show gave a half-apology, but it wasn't good enough. Eve then noted to Show that outside of WWE, there really isn't a spot for a 7'0" 441-lb. freak. Show wiped his head to control his emotions before Eve demanded another apology. Show said very slowly, "I...apologize...for making fun of John Laurinaitis's voice." Show left the ring muttering to himself and Eve remained in the ring smiling at her work.

2 -- WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/R-Truth) vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero and Jack Swagger)

Once the bell sounded, they cut to a shot of AW talking to former tag champs Primo & Epico and Rosa watching the match backstage. Suddenly, Mason Ryan walked into the backstage shot and AW stopped his conversation to survey Ryan's potential services. For the finish of the match, chaos distracted the ref, allowing Swagger to yank down Kofi from the outside. Ziggler then nailed the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 2:40. Basic heel-cheats-to-win three-minute singles match. One of those matches that captures WWE needing an off-season after WrestleMania to come up with new ideas, as this benefited no one. It's how Ziggler was winning matches 2-3 years ago during his ascension and didn't help the tag champs fresh off a Tag Title victory.

Cena via satellite talking about how he's going to mess Johnny up at the PPV...and that he's the reason the Board of Directors didn't do anything because Cena told them not to. Good pop for Cena.

3 -- Divas champion LAYLA & KELLY KELLY vs. MAXINE & NATALYA

Back from break, the heel Divas were already in the ring and Beth Phoenix was on commentary. Before the match started, they cut to a WWE.com interview with Layla at Extreme Rules talking about her return and Divas Title victory. The match built to a hot tag to Layla for the pin and the win. On commentary, Phoenix complained about Layla doing nothing to deserve a title shot. After the match, Layla posed with the title belt while staring down at Beth ringside.

WINNERS: Layla & Kelly at 1:55. No sign of Kharma yet; it looks like Layla-Phoenix for the title is next.

4 -- CHRIS JERICHO & ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & RANDY ORTON

Del Rio teed off on Orton with kicks early on, then Orton regained control and tagged in Sheamus. Cole reset the show by rattling off un-newsworthy items during the first hour that he labeled newsworthy. Jericho then tagged in and Sheamus blasted away with ten forearm strikes to the chest that lit up Jericho's chest. Sheamus ran an intrusive Del Rio off the apron, but Jericho rammed Sheamus's injured left shoulder into the corner post. Del Rio followed with another attack ringside as they cut to break with the heels in control.

Back from break, Sheamus broke free of an attack by Jericho before elbowing out of the corner. Sheamus then reached over to Orton and made a hot tag. Del Rio also tagged in. Orton ran over Del Rio before delivering his second-rope DDT. Orton wanted the RKO, but Jericho ran in. Ricardo then distracted the ref, allowing Del Rio to pop Orton with a kick to the head for a two count. Del Rio tried to follow up with an arm snap, but Orton no-sold and kicked Del Rio, then Jericho. Orton couldn't make a tag, though, so Jericho went back on the attack and mixed in some trash-talking.

Del Rio entered the match and wanted his cross arm-breaker, but Orton escaped and kicked Del Rio before making a tag to Sheamus. Jericho also re-entered the match, so it was Sheamus vs. Jericho. Sheamus landed a high-knee lift before Jericho cut him off. Counters. Sheamus with the Irish Curse, but Del Rio broke up the pin. Orton then sprung on Del Rio with the RKO. Suddenly, Sheamus went for the Brogue Kick on Jericho, but Jericho ducked and Orton ate the kick. Sheamus sold disdain before Jericho capitalized with the Codebreaker to Sheamus for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Jericho grabbed the World Title and screamed at the announcers that he just pinned the World champ. On-stage, Del Rio and Jericho stood tall. Jericho, standing next to the #1 contender, said he should be World champ. Back in the ring, Sheamus sold concern over Orton, then tried to help Orton to his feet. Orton brushed him off, then suddenly dropped Sheamus with the RKO center-ring. Orton's music played and he posed in the ring.

WINNERS: Jericho & Del Rio at 13:03. A lot happening here. Is Jericho now in the title picture or just being a heel claiming he should be in the title picture after a tag victory pinning the champ? Also, it looks like WWE may have an issue for a Sheamus-Orton match on Smackdown to keep Orton in the title picture post-Kane feud...assuming Orton-Kane is over.

5 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. THE MIZ

Cole claimed this is the first-time these two have met in the ring, which ignores their house show matches a few months ago. Clay quickly cleared Miz to the outside, then the Funkettes laughed at Miz. This drew Clay to the outside for a game of cat and mouse. Back in the ring, Miz took control of the action as the Funkettes tried to shout encouragements from ringside.

Clay teased a comeback, but Miz cut him off. Clay then caught Miz off the top rope and dropped him to the mat. Clay followed with the big splash and Miz's legs remained suspended in the air to sell the finish for the one, two, three. Cue up the dancing. Cole then fed to a video package on WWE's B.A. STAR campaign.

WINNER: Clay at 4:13. Clay's first long-form match on TV didn't capture the audience here, as there isn't a sense of WWE building up something of note to where his undefeated streak would be in jeopardy. WWE has reinforced to the audience that Clay shows up, dances, has a one-minute squash, and dances again. That's it. The audience isn't ready to sit through a four-minute back-and-forth TV match.

The return of Paul Heyman, who is the legal representitive of Brock Lesnar, which by the way says he quit.

6 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. LORD TENSAI & DANIEL BRYAN -- handicap match

Back from break, the bell sounded to begin the handicap main event with no ring intros. Tensai delivered some quick offense before D-Bryan tagged in, making his first appearance two hours into the show two weeks before challenging for the WWE Title. Tensai then tagged in and dismantled Punk some more. Tensai continued to wear down Punk before tagging in Bryan, who missed with a top-rope diving headbutt.

Punk made a comeback on Bryan before calling for the end. Bryan escaped the GTS, though, and made a tag to Tensai, who clotheslined Punk. Tensai then took a corner kick and Punk climbed up top. Once again, outside interference caused a distraction, which allowed the heels to double-team Punk. Tensai then awkwardly two-hand slammed Punk before stalking him for The Claw. Tensai spewed the green mist, then did wild noises and movements before hand-pressing Punk to the mat for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Bryan celebrated with repeated "Yes!" chants on the floor despite not being involved in the finish. Tensai celebrated on the way out before Bryan landed "Yes!" kicks and stomps to Punk. Bryan slapped on the Yes! Lock and screamed at Punk before ref Charles Robinson got him to release the hold. Bryan re-applied, then Charles got him to release again. This felt like the end of a Q6 segment. Bryan continued to shout, "Yes!" as Cole gave a sign-off worthy of a segment in the middle of the show, stressing that wrestlers need to learn not to mess with Laurinaitis. Flat ending to an even flatter show that came across like a farce throughout.

WINNERS: Tensai & Bryan at 6:56. It is what it is - the audience doesn't care about the Tensai character, but WWE is intent on featuring him. Meanwhile, Punk-Bryan received the minimum exposure two weeks before a PPV.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:41 am
FCW TV Results: 4-22-12 (posted on 5-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (link to Brummitt's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/floridachampionship/article_61236.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring result (note the old date of the show however it was posted this past week...)

1 - JASON JORDAN vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

Jason Jordan enters first. I thought Jason Jordan was part of a tag team with C.J. Parker? Apparently Mike Dalton has taken his place in that team and they now have a tag title shot tonight. Poor Jason.

Damien Sandow’s voice is then heard. He says, “Lights,” and the lights promptly dim. “Spotlight, please” and the spotlight opens on Sandow at the stage entrance with his robe, towel, and holding a mic. Sandow cuts a promo on his way to the ring in the same vein as those seen during his Smackdown vignettes. He basically accuses the crowd of incompetence and says he expects better of them and of Jordan.

As Sandow enters the ring, he appears to be engaging in an odd breathing technique. Regal informs the viewers that this is “Farmer Burns’s Stomach Flattener,” Sandow’s new conditioning technique. For those of you that are not familiar with 19th Century Wrestling (the Victorian Attitude Era), Burns is a Hall of Famer (PWHF rather than Vince McMahon’s HOF) and is a former American Heavyweight Champion.

Sandow removes his robe and is sporting some excellent hot pink trunks. Sandow and Jordan open by trading hammerlocks until Sandow goes for an early roll-up and grabs the tights, but it’s only good enough for two. They then trade headlock takedowns and head scissor escapes until Sandow sneaks out on to the ring apron.

He’s not out there for long, as Jordan tosses him back in and follows up with a back body drop, which gets him a two count. Jordan whips Sandow into the corner and hits a roll-up of his own which, again, gets him a two count. As the referee is distracted throwing a pad out of the ring, Sandow hits Jordan with an eye poke and gets in some offense culminating in a grounded double chickenwing, which he transitions into a Cattle Mutilation. Rather than staying in the submission, he goes for the pin, which Jordan kicks out of.

Sandow hits a clothesline to Jordan's back before briefly taking Jordan to the outside, where he carries on the assault. Back in the ring, Sandow celebrates with a cartwheel, which he follows up with a side Russian leg sweep. Sandow then misses a knee drop, giving Jordan the chance to get in some shots on Sandow. Jordan hits a couple of clotheslines punctuated by a suplex. Jordan then hits a running Blockbuster variation, but it only gets him a two count.

Sandow manages to pull Jordan into the turnbuckle before getting Jordan in a front facelock. Jordan reverses this into a back roll-up with a bridge, which gets him the win! Big upset there. Sandow sells shock in the middle of the ring.

WINNER: Jordan via pinfall at 7:27. Enjoyable match, overall. Jordan’s pretty green still but his look and athleticism could take him a long way. Sandow’s really great. His promo, look, pre-match exercise, and in-ring performance show why he has been called up to the main roster. Big surprise here with Jordan getting the win.

2 - CONOR O'BRIAN (w/Kenneth Cameron) vs. JIRO

For those of you that haven’t seen O’Brian or Cameron in FCW, they are part of a stable called The Ascension. The Ascension originally had five members with Epico, Ricardo Rodriguez (yes, that Ricardo Rodriguez), and Raquel Diaz (Eddie & Vickie Guerrero’s daughter) making up the rest of the group. However, I think the stable is now down to just O’Brian & Cameron. The Ascension seem to be FCW’s version of The Brood but without the blood.

Fortunately this week, Jiro is portrayed a little less stereotypically as he hasn’t brought his fan and karate kid headband to the ring. O’Brian & Cameron enter in their typical gothic manner.

The match starts with O’Brian stomping around the ring and no-selling Jiro strikes. O’Brian gets some offense on Jiro before roaring and throwing himself to the canvas. He hits Jiro with the big boot, which gets the three. O’Brian and Cameron celebrate with some roaring.

WINNER: O’Brian by pinfall in 1:02. Squash for the uber-intense Conor O’Brian. On the intensity scale, he’s half-way between Gunner & Ryback.

3 - BRAY WYATT (w/Eli Cottonwood) vs. AIDEN ENGLISH

Aiden English is described by Russo as FCW’s resident thespian.

Wyatt, in a black vest top and baggy white pants, opens up proceedings by shaking English’s hand. Wyatt tosses English around the ring a bit before charging him in the corner. He pulls English’s limp body out of the corner and ballroom dances with him (this is happening), which he transitions into a swinging reverse STO. He then picks up English before throwing him in the air and punching him in the face. That’s a nasty-looking finisher and it’s good for the three.

WINNER: Wyatt by pinfall in 1:37. Squash debut for Bray Wyatt. It’s rare you say this in wrestling, but I’ve never seen a character like this before. I really hope they use Wyatt right because he’s been very compelling so far.

4 - FCW tag champions COREY GRAVES & JAKE CARTER vs. MIKE DALTON & C.J. PARKER - FCW Tag Title match

Parker and Dalton are in first as the announcers discuss their ability to gel as a tag team. A.W. (Abraham Washington) then appears, using the same gimmick he is using in WWE as a Superstar agent. He introduces two of his clients, “Your girlfriend’s favorite tag team,” the FCW tag champs Jake “The Great” Carter & Corey “Chicks Dig” Graves. Regal brings up a story of how Carter and Graves are banned from Disney for life after going on a rampage that involved the girls that play Pocahontas. He said Walt would be spinning in his fridge. I love William Regal. He then compares the two to Keith Moon and Keith Richards.

The match begins with Parker and Carter. Carter starts on top and hits a nice looking clothesline before doing some Rick Martel-esque posing. This is enough for Parker to blindside Carter. Carter then gets in some offense of his own including a hip toss and a scoop slam. Graves is tagged in and receives a monkey flip from Parker and a cross-body from Dalton. Good sequence there as the tag was made mid-monkey flip.

Graves gets the tag to Carter, who beats down Dalton while Regal recounts his nights out with Graves and Carter. Carter, for those of you that don’t know, is Vader’s son. Regal notes how Vader had Carter on a conditioning regime at five-years-old. Carter tags in Graves and they apply a double top wristlock to Dalton, who flips backwards and reverses it into a double Northern Lights suplex, which is enough for him to get a tag. C.J. Parker comes in and cleans house before sending both men to the outside.

Parker and Dalton follow this up by hitting a tandem cross-body and suicide dive respectively. All four men are down on the outside going to break. The show comes back to action with Parker and Carter in the ring. Graves gets the blind tag in and hits a running knee to Parker’s ribs. Graves tags Carter back in and they hit a double atomic drop. Regal mocks Russo for using the phrase “Rebel Rousers” to describe Graves & Carter. Suplex by Carter on Parker, which he follows up with an abdominal stretch. Graves pulls Carter’s hand while out of the ref’s view to aggravate the stretch.

Carter tags in Graves, who applies an abdominal stretch of his own to Parker. Carter tries the same trick as Graves, but is caught by the ref, which gives Parker time to break the hold. Carter applies a grounded abdominal stretch variation, but Parker manages to break out. Carter tags Graves back in and hits a running splash to the corner before leaving the ring. Parker tries to fight out, but Carter tags in to stop him. Carter attempts another running frog splash, but Parker gets his knees up.

Parker gets close to tagging Dalton, but the champs pull him back. However, Parker manages to send Carter over the ropes and gets the tag to Dalton before Graves can stop him. Dalton unloads some offense on Graves, hitting a running elbow followed by a huracanrana and a pin attempt, which is broken up by Carter. AW then distracts the ref, which allows Corey Graves to use the cane on Dalton which is enough for the three.

WINNERS: Graves & Carter by pinfall in 11:46 to retain the FCW Tag Titles. Graves & Carter retain the FCW Tag Titles. Solid TV tag team main event with the heel team of Graves & Carter in control for the majority of the match. Out of the challengers, Dalton is the more accomplished of the two, but they both have a long way to go before they make it to the big-time. Carter & Graves are a team with a good chemistry and character. They are by no means a great tag team yet, but they would be a positive addition to the WWE’s tag team ranks when they’ve had a bit more time to gel.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:44 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-10-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61247.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - TAMINA SNUKA vs. MAXINE (w/Johnny Curtis)

Curtis is on commentary. He says that he doubts that Maxine has actually changed. Curtis is acting a bit weird, but not in his usually creepy way. Maxine fooled Snuka to take control of the match. Maxine with a hard full nelson that looks very painful. Maxine locks on her reverse Dragon Sleeper and Snuka has to put her into the turnbuckle to escape. Snuka with a comeback. Samoan Drop and the Superfly Splash, but Maxine rolls out of the way and Snuka eats canvas. Maxine with a Dragon Sleeper on the mat, and Snuka taps.

WINNER: Maxine via submission in 3:45. Fun match. I like that Maxine continues to rely on submission holds, as it gives her a big differentiating factor as a Diva. Recently on Twitter, she put up a cryptic message about having a great superstructure, but lacking foundation. If I had a guess, that was feedback from someone in Developmental telling her that she has everything it takes to be a top Diva, but her fundamental wrestling skills need work - that would be a fair assessment. Maxine is an incredibly talented person, but she does need some tweaking on the in-ring to complete the package. Her ring stories are decent enough, it's just the general execution which is, at times, inexperienced.

2 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JTG (w/Alicia Fox)

Early back-and-forth between the two. JTG goes on sustained offense. Tatsu's got a bad nosebleed. Tatsu makes a comback with chops then kicks. A Shining Wizard gets a nearfall. Tatsu calls for the end, but JTG ducks. JTG nearly falls over backwards, recovers, and gets in his finisher for the win.

WINNER: JTG in 3:45. JTG has done a total turnaround on his in-ring style. Regular readers will know that I've frequently criticized him for struggling with sustained offense. While this was a short match, it was clear that JTG has cleaned out the playbook and rebuilt his style from the ground up. Kudos to an experienced wrestler for being willing to make the needed changes. I am looking forward to seeing JTG in a longer match and see how this new style works in that scenario.

3 - TYSON KIDD & PERCY WATSON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & JOHNNY CURTIS - Tag Team match

There is some brilliant wrestling between McGillicutty and Kidd to start the match. Back-and-forth with Watson and Curtis and McGillicutty, then Kidd tags in and lands a big dive over the ropes to fire up the crowd. He stands on the barricade to get the crowd excited as they cut to break.

Out of the break, Kidd is controlling McGillicutty. Curtis messes with the ropes when Kidd looks for a springboard move, and Curtis and McGillicutty are able to isolate Kidd for a stretch. Nasty tag team action as McGillicutty puts Kidd on the mat with a backslide, and Curtis hits Kidd with a top-rope leg drop for two. Kidd finally gets Watson in after some hard-fought separation, and Watson comes in at fast-forward speed. The Highsman gets a nearfall, but Curtis breaks it up. Kidd takes Curtis out of the equation. McGillicutty fights out of the Percycution, but misses a corner splash, letting Watson get the Percycution for the win.

WINNERS: Tyson Kidd and Percy Watson in 8:00. You know what makes NXT "must-see?" Tyson Kidd and Percy Watson in the ring! And, more and more, I'm putting Michael McGillicutty and Johnny Curtis's in-ring work on that list, too. I really enjoyed this match, and it's worth watching just for Kidd and Watson's work. Tyson Kidd is really connecting with the crowd, too, which has traditionally been a shortcoming for him.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:45 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-10-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61283.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre tries to outwit Jackson, but Jackson's power prevails. McIntyre turns it around by dodging a corner charge. Jackson with a chest bump as McIntyre comes off the second rope, and Jackson takes control. Jackson tries setting up the Torture Rack in the corner, but McIntyre gets a rope break, lands a big boot, and then hits the Future Shock DDT for the win.

WINNER: Drew McIntyre at 3:45. McIntyre held up his end of the match. They really limited the time, probably to minimize the exposure of Jackson's flaws, but it just made for a match that went straight to the end far too quickly. This was evidenced by the announcers wondering if Jackson was finished less than two minutes into the match. Someone was going to break a losing streak here, and better McIntyre than Jackson.

2 - ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

Natalya out-wrestles Fox as the crowd chants "USA!" They trade slaps to turn up the heat. Natalya dodges a boot in the corner and Fox gets hung up, giving Natalya the advantage. Fox transitions from a "Matrix dodge" into a leg scissors. Natalya surprises Fox with the Sharpshooter, and Fox taps out to give Natalya her first win in a long time.

WINNER: Natalya via submission in 4:15. It's good to see Natalya pick up a win, but it should have happened a long time ago. I hope this leads somewhere like a Layla-Natalya match or a Beth Phoenix-Natalya match. I know the Divas are not a top item on the WWE agenda, but Divas like Beth Phoenix and Natalya can be used effectively.

3 - TYSON KIDD vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Kidd and Hunico trade offense. The crowd chants "U-S-A!" to support Kidd, a Canadian. Hunico tries arm-dragging Kidd, but he's so close to the ropes that Kidd bounces off, and arm drags Hunico on the rebound. Sick. Camacho distracts Kidd to give Hunico an edge. Hunico with a slingshot senton. Camacho gets involved again, and Hunico with a facebuster suplex. Hunico dominates for a stretch. Hunico starts from a butterfly suplex position, but flips Kidd mid-air and turns it into a backbreaker.

Kidd gets a break with a running armdrag followed by a double clothesline. Kidd fires up with strong kicks. The crowd is going nuts for Kidd. Springboard elbow from Kidd, but Hunico kicks out at two-and-nine-tenths. Kidd tries the Sharpshooter, but Hunico escapes. Kidd with a suicide dive, Hunico dodges but Camacho eats it. Hunico capitalizes. Hunico tries the Swanton Bomb, but Kidd gets a knee up. Kidd comes back with a Sharpshooter, but Hunico gets to the ropes. Kidd misses the slingshot guillotine leg drop. He tries to slingshot back into the ring, but Hunico catches him with a brainbuster of sorts for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 7:00. WWE needs to listen to the fantastic crowd reaction that Kidd gets despite having nearly no mic time. He wins over crowds with his in-ring abilities alone. Last year, Tyson Kidd had more in-ring time than any other Superstar if memory serves, and I believe that Kidd is on track to not only repeat that, but repeat it by a country mile. The only two wrestlers WWE has that are in Kidd's class in terms of in-ring capability are C.M. Punk and Daniel Bryan (Dolph Ziggler comes mighty close). Bryan and Punk have been able to make their way to the top with superior skills and I hope Kidd does, too.

4 - U.S. champion SANTINO MARELLA & ZACK RYDER vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Marella and Reks to start. Reks shows off his power and acts like a bully. Marella tags in Ryder after an atomic drop makes him shriek like a kid. Hawkins comes in to take on old friend Ryder. Ryder and Hawkins with a fist pump to show respect. Double dropkick and Hawkins slaps Ryder, Ryder unleashes on Hawkins in response. Marella dominates Hawkins, then clears Reks from the ring and Ryder follows up.

Hawkins fights off Marella, and brings Reks in. Ryder gets the tag and takes it to Reks, who eats a Broski Boot, but Reks counters the Rough Ryder. Ryder can't catch a break and Reks and Hawkins work him over. Ryder finally makes the hot tag and Marella unloads on Hawkins. Hawkins tags in Reks and Marella doesn't lose a step. Hawkins breaks up a pin so Ryder clears him away with the Rough Ryder. Marella puts Reks into the turnbuckle with a drop toe hold, followed by the Cobra for the three count and the bell.

WINNERS: Santino Marella and Zack Ryder in 12:30. Good match, not a great match. I liked the initial exchanges between Ryder and Hawkins to play up their history.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:47 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-10-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61291.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- VELVET SKY vs. BROOKE TESSMACHER

The match started with Sky taunting Tessmacher using her rear end, which Tenay called “the dancing cheeks,” ugh. Tessmacher hit Sky with a monkey flip, but was thrown to the mat for a two count when she failed a second attempt. Tessmacher came back with a dropkick, and gave Sky the Stink Face in the corner. Tessmacher missed an attack in the corner, which allowed Sky to get a two count after a bulldog.

Tessmacher tried to sneak in a pinfall with a small package, but only a got a two count. She then hit Sky with a facebuster for the pin.

WINNER: Brooke Tessmacher via pinfall at 3:42. The match was rather sloppy without Kim in there to pick up the slack for them.

Kim came out and hit Tessmacher with the Knockouts Title. She proceeded to hit her with Eat Defeat, and taunted her.

2 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. ZEMA ION -- X Division Title match

As the match started, Ion used his hair spray to groom himself, which led to Aries putting him in a headlock to rough up his hair. Aries and Ion exchanged some high-risk moves with Aries diving to the outside from the top rope, followed up by Ion flipping over the top rope to the outside.

The high-risk continued with Aries nailing Ion with a diving elbow through the ropes to the outside. He threw him back into the ring and hit a springboard elbow drop for a two count. Ion tried to counter with a huracanrana off the top rope, but Aries held on and countered with a dropkick. He hit another dropkick in the corner, and followed up with a brainbuster for the pin.

WINNER: Austin Aries via pinfall at 4:17 to retain the X Division Title. These two put together a good television match as Aries continues to be the recurring Thursday night highlight for this viewer. I will say though, that spill Ion took after the failed huracanrana attempt had me worried for a second.

Robbie E. came out with Robbie T. for his match against Devon. Before the match could start, Devon rushed to the ring and laid out both Robbie E. and Robbie T. The referee eventually rang the bell.

3 -- TNA Television Champion DEVON vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Robbie T.) - TV Title match

Devon continued to beat on Robbie E. and Robbie T. all over the ring and ringside. Devon hit a spinebuster on Robbie E. for the pin.

WINNER: Devon via pinfall at 1:13 to retain the TNA Television Title

After the match, Robbie T. snuck up on Devon and hit him powerslam, and handed the belt to Robbie E., who gloated with it for a little before leaving it in the ring with Devon.

4 -- TNA World Heavyweight champion BOBBY ROODE vs. ROB VAN DAM vs. MR. ANDERSON vs. JEFF HARDY - non-title fatal four-way match

To start the match, all three faces took turns stomping on Roode in the corner. Eventually Hardy and Anderson focused on each other, but the focus boiled back down to Roode. He was able to overcome the numbers game sending RVD and Anderson to the outside. Roode duked it out with Hardy for a bit, and dodged a Whisper in the Wind as the show went commercial break.

Roode and Hardy were still going at it as the show came back from the break. Hardy switched his attention to RVD and tried to hit him a dive off the ring apron to the outside, but it looked like he missed for a sick landing on the guardrail. In the ring Anderson nailed Roode with a swinging neckbreaker for a pin attempt, but it was broken up by RVD. Roode caught RVD with a spinebuster out of a Rolling Thunder attempt, but only got a two count. Hardy got back into the match with a Whisper in the Wind for a two count on RVD. Roode tried to capitalize, but was met with a bevy of finishers from the other wrestlers, with RVD getting the pin on Roode.

WINNER: Rob Van Dam via pinfall at 9:31.

RVD pulled out a ladder and sat at the top while doing the thumb pointing motion. A loud pyro blast came from the stage as bells began to ring. Abyss came out and warned his brother that he was getting to close to the fire, and then headed to the back as the show ended. That was a good, star-packed match to close out tonight’s Impact. The match followed the pace of the rest of the show, fast paced and all over the place. That being said, that pace did not necessarily lend itself to the appeal of tonight’s show. As much as I like Bully Ray’s TNA work, he was just on the screen too much tonight. There was some good wrestling on tonight’s show, but I can barely piece together what happened.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:50 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-11-12 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_61318.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – SHEAMUS & RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO & ALBERTO DEL RIO

Booker T, Michael Cole, and Josh Mathews were shown at ringside during Jericho’s entrance. No car for Del Rio, but Cole covered for him saying he didn’t want to soil his beautiful car in such a dirty city. Orton began the match, but at :43, slapped Sheamus on the shoulder to tag him in. The partners shared a few choice words before Sheamus went after Jericho. Sheamus made a hard tag himself to Orton. Jericho got the upper hand long enough to tag Del Rio. Orton missed a running knee-drop, and ADR immediately began setting up for the cross arm-breaker. A conventional tag was made to Sheamus after Orton broke out of a rest-hold. Sheamus hit the ropes, but Jericho pulled down the ropes and Sheamus fell to ringside. He kicked the injured shoulder of Sheamus for good measure. Back in the ring, Del Rio kicked the arm of Sheamus, then tagged Jericho. Jericho continued to brutalize the arm and shoulder. Booker rightfully countered Cole’s “25 percent chance to retain” claim by saying Daniel Bryan beat the odds a few months ago when people said he had little chance to retain. Orton set up for an RKO, but Jericho countered. Standing dropkick for two, broken up by Del Rio. Sheamus went after Del Rio and Jericho attacked Sheamus. The referee called for the bell, apparently a double disqualification.

WINNERS: Double disqualification, at 5:17. Fine build-up for the title match at Over the Limit, allowing fans to believe these guys will lose all control at the PPV and do whatever it takes to win since this match got so heated.

2 – AJ vs. KAITLYN

As AJ entered the ring, they showed AJ’s backstage segment with Kaitlyn last week. After showing a look of concern for her opponent, AJ tackled Kaitlyn at the bell and the two began to brawl. AJ dodged a clothesline and dropkicked Kaitlyn in the leg. Running knee to the face, then a cover for three.

WINNER: AJ, at :33. AJ’s path of rage continues, but it’s actually helping her win matches.

3 – DANIEL BRYAN vs. THE BIG SHOW

Fists to the gut of Bryan, then chops, then more punches. Bryan jumped off the second rope and kneed Show in the chest. But Show splashed Bryan in the corner. Bryan turned the tide with a dropkick to the knee. Bryan put Show in the Yes Lock and the bell rang before Show submitted. Turns out, John Laurinaitis had the hammer and he rang the bell, announcing Bryan as the winner via submission.

WINNER: Bryan, via submission, at 1:17. You could tell by the pace they were going early on that it would be short.

Laurinaitis entered the ring to go face-to-face with Show. Laurinaitis confronted Show about how Show made fun of him and his voice on Monday. Show backed off and said what he did wasn’t funny, but Laurinaitis kept demanding more. “No sir,” Show said when asked if what he did was funny. Laurinaitis delivered the money line Eve delivered on Raw about Show not having a place outside wrestling. Laurinaitis said Show better apologize this week on Raw…and it better be a good one.

4 – HEATH SLATER vs. RYBACK

Mathews: “Do you like Slater’s chances here?” Booker: “I like the chances of Slater getting the hell beat out of him.” Slater tried a neck-breaker, but Ryback just shrugged it off. He slammed his shoulder into Slater’s gut in the corner, then hit a unique powerslam. Hard running clothesline followed that. After his finisher, the pin was academic.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:18. As long as he keeps bringing different moves to the table (like the powerslam), he should continue to do well in these squashes.

5 – ALEX RILEY vs. ANTONIO CESARO

Long was forced to introduce Cesaro with numerous superlatives. Aksana came to the ring with Cesaro. Headbutt, forearm, then a running boot in the corner by Cesaro. Cover got two. Dropkick attempt by Riley, but Cesaro held the ropes. Cesaro showed off his raw power with a suplex, then kicked Riley in the back. Riley was grounded with Cesaro grabbing the shoulders and keeping his arms behind him. “USA” chant by the fans. It never fails. Riley fired back with right hands and made a babyface comeback. Spinebuster, but Cesaro grabbed Riley’s ear to break it. Then he hit his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Cesaro, at 2:23. Interesting that WWE places Ryback and Cesaro’s virtual squashes back-to-back.

Continued in next post...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 14 2012, 12:51 am
6 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. RANDY ORTON

Both men were in the ring out of break, with Orton’s entrance just finishing up. Orton hammered away on ADR in one corner, but Del Rio came back and neutralized Orton in the opposite corner. Orton with a slingshot that sent Del Rio throat-first under the bottom rope. The back-and-forth continued with Del Rio bringing Orton’s arm down over the top rope. Cole noted that Ricardo has been antsy and jumpy at ringside. Slam by Del Rio with Orton’s arm behind his back. Things broke down into a fist-fight, and Orton came out on the better side of that. Powerslam, but he ended up clutching the shoulder. Orton attempted his rope-assisted DDT, but he ended up on the apron and Del Rio hit an enziguiri for two at 3:36. Del Rio brought Orton’s arm across his knees. He positioned Orton for the cross arm-breaker, but Orton side-stepped it. Del Rio went to the top but Orton knocked him on his kiester. Orton then DDT’d Del Rio from that position. Rodriguez went to the top rope as Orton readied for the RKO. Rodriguez came flying off, and Orton RKO’d him in mid-air. The ref called for the bell.

WINNER: Orton, via disqualification, at 5:17. They’re blowing through two weeks of hype in one with the tag match, then singles matches amongst the four competitors.

Del Rio applied the cross arm-breaker after the match and once again refs ran down to break it up. Once they did, the replay of the mid-air RKO was shown, as was Del Rio’s post-match attack.

7 – R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER

Truth was accompanied by Kofi Kingston; Swagger had Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero with him. At Over the Limit, it’ll be Kofi & Truth vs. Swagger & Ziggler. Hip-toss by Truth after Swagger missed a corner charge. Jumping leg-drop after much dancing by Truth. AW, Rosa Mendes, Epico, Primo and Mason Ryan were all shown watching this match backstage. The announcers were unsure of Ryan’s role there. Wheelbarrow suplex by Swagger, then a forearm to the small of the back. Truth fought back with a DDT. Truth’s comeback went into motion at 2:05. Roll-up for two, then more thrusting. Lie Detector for two. Ziggler jumped into the ring and pulled Truth off the pin. Somehow, the ref missed this. Kingston defended his man on the outside. Coming back into the ring, Swagger was knocked out by a Kingston kick. Truth hit his finish for the win.

WINNER: Truth, at 3:19. With Ziggler’s win over Kingston on Raw, predictably, the one-on-one matches are even heading into the PPV. Of course, there’s still another week of hype left.

8 – SANTINO MARELLA & ZACK RYDER vs. DARREN YOUNG & TITUS O’NEIL

Marella and Ryder did an inset interview disagreeing on the name for their team. Santino couldn’t avoid O’Neil, who bodyslammed Marella. He peppered Young with rights, but Young gave Marella a neck-breaker. The heels were wearing matching aqua-colored tights. Hard European uppercut by O’Neil, then a quick tag to Young. Ryder made the hot tag and took care of Young and O’Neil. Broski Boot connected. Cover got two. O’Neil tripped Ryder as he ran the ropes, allowing Young to take over. Santino threatened use of the Cobra, but Titus bopped him. Ryder took out O’Neil and went back into the ring. Young stopped Ryder’s momentum, then O’Neil came in with a back-breaker and Young finished him with an elbow off the middle rope. “Ghetto Blaster!” shouted Booker.

WINNERS: Young and O’Neil, at 3:04. To make a sports analogy, Smackdown feels like it’s in rebuilding mode with all these new superstars.

9 – “FUNKASAURUS” BRODUS CLAY vs. HUNICO

To completely kill whatever fun aspect was left of Clay’s gimmick, Cole was shown at ringside doing the dance. Hunico came to the ring explaining what his name meant. He rode on the back of a bike driven by Camacho. Hunico and Camacho attacked before the bell, sending Clay’s dancers screaming. The referee finally gained control and sent Hunico to the opposite of corner. Clay jiggled and gyrated his way to his feet. The ref rang the bell and Hunico tried to attack. Clay no-sold a few shots and headbutted Hunico in the chest. Back body-drop on Hunico. Camacho was headbutted off the apron. Overhead throw by Clay. Big splash finished off Hunico.

WINNER: Clay, at :56. Another thing this show highlights is just how many non-wrestlers there seem to be around ringside these days that cause some sort of interference during matches.

10 – CHRIS JERICHO vs. SHEAMUS

I wonder when the last time was that Smackdown had ten matches on one show. They again showed the video from earlier of the opening tag match ending in a schmozz. Sheamus got the upper hand in the opening few seconds. Jericho got his boot up on a charge and hammered away on Sheamus. Jericho missed a dive in the corner and Sheamus proceeded to pound on his chest with forearms. Jericho was knocked off the apron and to ringside. They cut to break at 1:21 of the match.

Back at 4:16 and Sheamus still in control. On the apron, Sheamus tried to suplex Jericho out of the ring, to no avail. Jericho took a page out of his partner from earlier tonight’s book, bringing Sheamus’ arm down across the top rope. Jericho continued the beating outside the ring, pushing Sheamus shoulder-first into the steel post. In the ring, Jericho again focused on the taped-up arm and shoulder of the World Champion. Lionsault missed but he landed on his feet. That didn’t help as Sheamus got into an offensive groove. Jericho attempted the Walls of Jericho a few times, locking it in on the second try. He sat back and Sheamus reached desperately for the ropes. Sheamus reached the bottom rope to break. Jericho argued with the ref and was then back-dropped to ringside. Alberto Del Rio ran out and tossed Jericho into the steps for the DQ.

WINNER: Jericho, via DQ, at 8:40.

Del Rio then entered the ring and applied the cross arm-breaker to Sheamus. Orton ran out to make the save, unloading on Del Rio with rights. Sheamus shoved Orton off to punish Del Rio himself. Orton was offended by this and the two began arguing. As they were, Jericho ran in, hit the Codebreaker on Del Rio, then ran back out while Orton and Sheamus just stood there. RKO for Del Rio, then Orton went to glare at Sheamus again. Del Rio got up and was put down with a Brogue Kick. Orton and Sheamus went face-to-face again to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 16 2012, 03:42 am
WWE RAW Results: 5-14-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61412.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results and some of the jawwing.

- Triple H started the show, called Brock a quitter and was threatened by a lawsuit by Paul Heyman.

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & U.S. champion SANTINO vs. DANIEL BRYAN & IC champion CODY RHODES

Rhodes and Punk started the match-up, but Punk wanted a piece of Bryan. An odd vibe in the arena after the long opening segment and WWE quickly going to this match with a "unique" mix of wrestlers and sense that this should have been better-promoted and/or featured at the top of the second hour. Things got a little odder when Punk launched Bryan over the top rope to splash Rhodes. Punk then landed a suicide dive on the heels ringside. They set up a spot for Santino to deliver a suicide dive, but he got stuck in the ropes for a comedy spot. Punk tried to explain the move to his partner and Bryan stroked his beard before WWE cut to break. Very odd start.

Back from break, Santino and Rhodes were locked in a corner tussle. Rhodes then kicked Santino in the gut as Cole ranted on people tweeting for Punk. Bryan then tagged in and got the crowd involved with "Yes!" chants followed by a big corner dropkick to Santino. Bryan followed with continuous knee drops set to the tune of "Yes!" that the crowd followed along with. The heels continued to wear down Santino as Cole gave Bryan the kiss of death saying he could be the new WWE champion in six days at the PPV. Santino showed some life, so Bryan kicked him in the gut and tagged in Rhodes. Bryan re-entered and landed more kick strikes before taunting Punk. More tags by the heels.

Santino suddenly rolled underneath Rhodes and flew across the ring to tag in Punk, but fell short for a comedy spot. Punk shook his head. Santino then kicked away Rhodes and finally made a tag to Punk, who cleaned house. Punk tore up Rhodes while pointing to Bryan before calling for the end. Rhodes escaped the GTS, though, only to take a roundhouse kick to the head. Bryan decided to get involved, then high-tailed it out of the ring when Punk almost got him. Punk, distracted, nearly took Cross Rhodes, but Punk escaped. Rhodes then got spooked by Santino's Cobra and spun back into Punk, who delivered the GTS for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Bryan slowly backed away from the ring and stared down Punk from the entrance ramp. Punk celebrated in the ring and held his title belt high in the air while Bryan did the belt-around-the-waist motion.

WINNERS: Punk & Santino at 10:54.

2 -- BETH PHOENIX vs. ALICIA FOX

A. Fox was already in the ring back from break. Phoenix then came out not showing any effects of her ankle injury before the announcers plugged Phoenix vs. Divas champion Layla at the PPV on Sunday. A few moments in, Layla came out on-stage for a closer look at Phoenix dismantling Fox. Phoenix finished off Fox with the Glam Slam, then tried a post-match attack, but Layla stormed the ring to clear Phoenix to the outside.

WINNER: Phoenix at 1:20.

3 -- BIG SHOW vs. KANE

Show landed rapid-fire blows to the mid-section early on, then Kane came back with offense. Laurinaitis was then shown looking down texting. Cole said the man is busy running two shows and managing 100 Superstars on the roster. Cole, playing the heel announcer now, called Laurinaitis one of the best of all-time in Japan, trying to promote Big Johnny ahead of facing Cena at the PPV. The match spilled to the outside, where Show scored with a big spear. Show rolled Kane back into the ring, then Laurinaitis interrupted on the mic. He decided he wanted an apology now. Kane used the distraction to kind of shove down Show because he couldn't lift him up for a chokeslam. Kane with the cover for the win.

WINNER: Kane at 4:09.

- After the match, Big Show apologized to Johnny, he wished Show the best in his future endeavors. Johnny smiled as Show cried. He told Show, "You're fired." Show broke up crying in the ring.

4 -- BRODUS CLAY & WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. THE MIZ & JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- six-man tag match

Clay cleared the heels to the outside, then stood tall in the ring as WWE cut to break one minute into the match.

Back live, Vickie was screaming and Dolph was working a headlock on R-Truth. WWE suddenly cut to the skybox to show A.W., Mason Ryan, Primo, Epico, and Rosa Mendes watching the action. Cole said A.W. is closing in on a deal with Mason Ryan. So, he's wining and dining him...at a WWE show. WWE cut back to the ring to show the heels working on Truth before cutting back to an over-the-shoulder shot of A.W.'s stable watching in the skybox. Back in the ring, Kingston tagged into the match. He dropped Miz with the STO, then the action broke down. Dolph ran into The Headbutt, then Kofi dropped Miz with Trouble in Paradise. Clay followed with the Big Splash on Miz for the pin and the win. After the match, Clay brought four Little Jimmys into the ring to dance with everyone.

WINNERS: Team Clay at 6:58. Miz is heading off to film "The Marine 3" next month, so he's just being used to fill a spot and build Clay's resume.

5 -- RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Cole said Alberto Del Rio is not here on Raw, but he will have some comments on the four-way title match on Smackdown. So, apparently that's the big hook for Friday's Smackdown. Orton quickly took control of the match, then cleared Jericho to the outside and stood tall in the ring. Once again, WWE cut to break 1:00 into the match.

Back at 4:15, Jericho was working a headlock on Orton in the ring. They cut to a shot of Jericho cheating to take control of the match during the break. Meanwhile, Sheamus jabbed Cole on commentary and said he hopes WWE pays Lawler well to put up with Cole. Back in the ring, Jericho cut off Orton's comeback, but Orton got his knees up on a Lionsault attempt. Orton then ran over Jericho with clotheslines before delivering a powerslam. Orton locked eyes with Sheamus, then wanted a second-rope DDT, but Jericho back-dropped him over the top rope to the floor right in front of the announcers.

Ringside, Jericho talked trash to Sheamus, who stood up before Lawler calmed him down. Jericho then whipped Orton hard into Sheamus. Jericho leaned on the ring apron to admire his work, but then Orton took control back in the ring. Orton was ready to deliver the RKO to Jericho, but Sheamus dragged Jericho to the outside and delivered a hard clothesline, his temper flaring up. The result was Orton was DQ'ed because of Sheamus's outside interference.

Post-match: Jericho ran away as Sheamus tried to chase him down. Orton then chased down Sheamus ringside and spun him around. Sheamus told him not to touch him, and Orton shouted back, "That was my W!" Sheamus said he doesn't care about Orton winning a match. Orton then told Sheamus to come into the ring and settle it. "You feeling lucky?" Sheamus asked. In the ring, Orton and Sheamus circled each other before referees stormed the ring to keep them separated.

WINNER: Jericho via DQ at 8:42. Oh, how much more Orton-Jericho could have been. The finish was predictable WWE booking, but Orton-Sheamus feels like the only feud between full-time wrestlers with some juice.

- The final segment was the face-off between John Laurinaitis and John Cena. Johnny was so assurred of stacking the deck against Cena in the PPV...oh wait...not going to happen. It must be a one-on-one match, no special referees and if any WWE Superstar interferes, they're fired and if Johnny Boy loses, he's fired.

Prediction: Big Show was fired and is no longer a WWE Superstar. He helps Laurinaitis beat Cena and gets his job back.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 18 2012, 01:53 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-16-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61495.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - PERCY WATSON vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

William Regal says that if he were to wrestle Curtis, he would make sure Curtis had a shower first. Watson gets control of the match with his speed. Curtis ambushes Watson through the ropes and starts a power-based offensive streak. Regal says that the "MVP" of NXT: Redemption has been Maxine, because she has made the biggest impact on the show. Watson makes a comeback with double dropkicks and a throw. The Highsman draws a near fall. Curtis slips out of the Perscution and counters with a brainbuster for the win.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 4:45. I enjoy this pairing, and I would have enjoyed a longer match. Regal's comments regarding Maxine were spot-on; she has carried this show along with William Regal.

2 - GREAT KHALI & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. TYLER REKS & CURT HAWKINS - Tag Team Match

Khali and Hawkins start the match, with Hawkins eating Khali's offense. Jackson tags in and Hawkins scrambles to tag Reks in. Reks has a spot of offense, but makes the mistake of mouthing off to Jackson. Meanwhile, Regal reminds viewers of when he led a stable with Jackson and Kozlov.

Reks and Hawkins isolate Jackson. Jackson finally brings in Khali, who single-handedly chumps both Reks and Hawkins. Khali then hits Reks with the Punjabi Plunge for the win.

WINNERS: Great Khali & Ezekiel Jackson in 6:00. If they ever put Ezekiel Jackson or Great Khali on NXT again, I'm going to cry. This show has been blissfully isolated from this kind of nonsense, and now it isn't. If I say anything else, I'll start sounding like Charles Cress, the Torch's Alphabet Soup specialist - read his articles, they are good for the soul - and draw up a Khali Inner Monologue.

3 - KAITLYN vs. MAXINE

Maxine has a new ring outfit - pleather plants and a shiny bra-like top, which is definitely a change from her usual nightie and fishnets. I think Kaitlyn has yet another new song, too. Kaitlyn with a takedown and a jackknife to start. Maxine looks for a quick tap out with the Reverse Dragon sleeper, but Kaitlyn fights out. Kaitlyn wants a delayed vertical suplex, but Maxine fights out. Maxine tricks Kaitlyn, then goes on the attack with malice.

Camel Clutch from Maxine looks like it hurts. Kaitlyn puts Maxine's face into the turnbuckle and gets in some offense. Kaitlyn is bleeding from the mouth. Maxine wants a headlock of sorts and transitions to a neckbreaker. Maxine with a standing Camel Clutch but Kaitlyn escapes, reverses it into a full nelson sit out slam, and then locks on a full nelson with her legs. Maxine taps.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 6:00. These two always work well together, but I feel like Maxine's in-ring work has gotten a lot tighter in this match than I've ever seen it. Nice match and I like the emphasis on submissions in a Divas match.

4 - TYSON KIDD vs. DERRICK BATEMAN vs. MICHAEL MCGILICUTTY - Triple Threat Match

McGillicutty ducks out of the ring early and tells Kidd and Bateman to go at it instead. Nice technical wrestling between Kidd and Bateman. They show some good sportsmanship, and McGillicutty mocks them. Kidd and Bateman leave the ring and surround McGillicutty and double team him. The team doesn't survive as Bateman tries a schoolboy on Kidd from behind. McGillicutty keeps Bateman out of the ring. Bateman re-enters and Kidd tricks Bateman into creaming McGillicutty.

Kidd and McGillicutty are going back-and-forth and Bateman struggles to get into the match. Bateman finally gets a chance to unload on McGillicutty. Now Kidd is involved. Bateman with some offense on Kidd but McGillicutty gets into it. Bateman with a suplex to a bridge, but Kidd hits Bateman with a springboard elbow for a nearfall, then he rolls over the McGillicutty for a nearfall. Lots of pin attempts and break-ups. Regal gives Bateman some praise despite cutting him down earlier in the match.

McGillicutty fights out of Bateman's superplex attempt; Kidd charges Bateman, but Bateman sends him flying head-first into McGillicutty, who goes crashing to ringside from the top rope. Kidd slips by Bateman and locks in the Sharpshooter. Bateman almost gets a rope break, but Kidd turns the Sharpshooter into the Dungeon Lock. Bateman taps just before McGillicutty is able to break it up.

WINNER: Tyson Kidd in 14:00. This was a bit slow at the beginning, as Bateman spent most of his time on the outside recovering, but the second half picked up nicely. Good example of what a Triple Threat match can be.

Final Reax: Nearly 31 minutes of wrestling on a 45-minute show. That's how it's done folks
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2012, 02:43 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-17-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61536.shtml)

1 - ALEX RILEY vs. HEATH SLATER

It's noticeable that Riley consistently gets a legit pop on his entrance. The match starts and neither man can get an advantage early on. Lots of back-and-forth. Slater catches Riley going to the top and they cut to commercial.

Slater has control out of the break. Scott Stanford tells us that Slater hangs out with Trace Atkins, who's name and face regularly crops up in WWE. Slater mouths off to the crowd and the ref while working Riley over. The crowd cheers Riley out of a hold, but he gets a neckbreaker for his efforts.

Riley finally gets some space with big rights, but Slater dumps him to the ringside. Riley finally back on the attack coming into the ring. Riley turns up the speed. Big spinebuster and Riley's got the crowd involved. A-Bomb in the corner for a nearfall. Out of nowhere, Slater hits a strange new move, it is like a half belly-to-back suplex followed by a reverse STO. That's good for the win.

WINNER: Heath Slater in 10:00. Slater has progressed from someone that I cringed at when he came onto my screen to a reliable, capable performer. He's had a number of longish matches in the last few months, none of which were bad. Riley has done an amazing job at maintaining his momentum despite a lack of TV time, and his matches are usually good. This was a fun match.

2 - TYSON KIDD vs. LORD TENSAI

Tensai starts to destroy Kidd out of the gate. Tensai shows much more speed than he has on Raw. Kidd uses his speed to make a small comeback. Kidd walks into one of Tensai's power bombs giving Tensai the chance to return to the attack. Tensai locks on the claw, slams Kidd to the mat, and Kidd is down.

Post-match, Tensai returns to hit Kidd with a running senton.

WINNER: Lord Tensai in 3:00. What a waste of Tyson Kidd. Tensai showed much better enthusiasm than he has in the past, but it still does not redeem him too much. I highly question the wisdom of feeding Kidd to Tensai; Kidd has been slowly building a following with his work on NXT and Superstars over the last year, and having him lose decisively not only hurts him, but makes everyone he has had hard-fought matches with lately (Yoshi Tatsu and Michael McGillicutty) look like chumps, too.

3 - THE USOS vs. JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) - Tag Team Match

Jey Uso and Ziggler are starting off. Striker brings up an interesting question, which is what Vickie thinks of "AW" starting his own stable. Ziggler stalls a bit to frustrate Jey, who doesn't take it and brings in Jimmy. They double-team Ziggler, who is able to get a tag to Swagger. Swagger whiffs a double leg drop, so he gets a tag to Ziggler, who takes offense from Jimmy.

Ziggler gets relief and a chance to tag Swagger, so Swagger and Ziggler keep Jimmy in their corner. Jimmy gets to his corner and Jey gets some fast offense in. Jey with a full nelson sit-out slam and Swagger has to break up the cover.

Back from break, Swagger does push-ups to show his dominance. Ziggler and Swagger demonstrate they they can work as a team. I don't think that I have ever seen this ref before, incidentally. Jimmy counters the Fameasser, prompting a double tag. Jey with a ton of speed to take Swagger down and clear Ziggler from the ring.

Swagger takes a stinkface for a nearfall. Swagger uses a distraction from Vickie to slip out of a Samoan Drop attempt, but Jey counters a gutwrench powerbomb with a roll-up to pick up the win. There is a bit of tension post-match between Swagger and Ziggler.

WINNERS: The Usos in 13:30. Enjoyable tag match, but the booking is bizarre. Ziggler and Swagger have a Tag Title chance on Sunday; why undermine them with a loss a few days before?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2012, 02:47 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-17-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61544.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- BULLY RAY vs. ROB VAN DAM -- Open Fight Night qualifying match

As the match started, Ray beckoned for the referee to check on the banged up RVD, presumably in case of any foreign weapons being hidden under RVD’s bandages. Ray focused on RVD’s taped-up elbow, but not for long, as RVD came back with a few kicks and a Rolling Thunder for a two count.

RVD missed an enziguri, which allowed Ray to capitalize on RVD’s injured knee. Ray missed a splash, which allowed Van Dam to come back with a series of clotheslines. He went for the side kick off the top rope, but missed which allowed Ray to capitalize with the 3D for the win.

WINNER: Bully Ray via pinfall at 3:22 to qualify for Open Fight Night. Good match that was given a storyline out for its short length. RVD should be banged up from his hard-hitting ladder match at Sacrifice, making all the bandages a nice touch. Seriously, for anyone who missed Sacrifice, seek out RVD’s ladder botch.

2 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. ERIC YOUNG vs. ODB vs. ROBBIE E. vs. ROBBIE T. vs. GUNNER vs. GARETT BISCHOFF vs. A.J. STYLES vs. MAGNUS vs. DEVON -- Battle Royal -- Open Fight Night qualifying match

ODB, Young, and Crimson were all eliminated in one fell swoop when the momentum of Young and ODB’s tandem clothesline led all three of them to fall out of the ring. Taz brought up Crimson’s undefeated streak, and questioned whether it was in jeopardy due to him being eliminated. Magnus was thrown to the outside, but hung onto the ropes before being kicked off and eliminated.

Madison Rayne came out to the stage twirling her hair, looking on in admiration. In the midst of trying to eliminate Bischoff, Robbie T. was blindsided and eliminated by Robbie E. Devon came up from behind and threw Robbie E. out to Robbie T. as the show went to a commercial break.

They came back to Styles, Devon, Bischoff, Gunner, and Aries left in the match. Devon elminated himself when he missed a flying shoulder tackle on Bischoff, who held the top rope down to allow Devon to fly over it. Before he could celebrate, Styles grabbed Bischoff and threw him over the top tope.

Aries and Styles met face-to-face and started to square off, which led to an exciting exchange of counters between the two. Gunner took advantage of the situation and eliminated Aries, but was shortly eliminated by Styles thereafter for the victory.

WINNER: A.J. Styles via over the top rope elimination at 11:05 to qualify for Open Fight Night. Standard battle royal match with a lot of punches with the exception being the exchange between Aries and Styles. I’m okay with Styles winning, but I was really hoping they would pull the trigger on Aries and at least give off the perception that he belongs in the heavyweight division. Tonight would have been the perfect night to follow up on a stellar platform for him to launch off that was created at Sacrifice.

3 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. JEFF HARDY -- Open Fight Night qualifying match

Anderson and Hardy started the match out with a bit of a feeling-out process. They eventually made their way to the corner and exchanged shoulder thrusts into each other’s guts. Anderson eventually got the best of Hardy with a headlock and clothesline for a two count. Anderson caught Hardy on the ring apron, but Hardy came back with a dropkick over the top rope for a two count.

Anderson hit a quick neckbreaker for another two count. Hardy hit Anderson with a chopblock that sent both men down. He hit a Russian leg sweep, but before he could capitalize was rolled up for a two count. Anderson tried to throw Hardy into the corner, but was met with a Whisper in the Wind. Hardy tried to follow up with the Twist of Fate, but Anderson countered with an attempted Pittsburgh Plunge that turned into Hardy holding on to get the fluky pinfall for the victory.

WINNER: Jeff Hardy via pinfall at 6:00. Fun back and forth match that continued the story of of there being no clean win in the current Hardy and Anderson feud.

4 -- TNA Knockouts champion GAIL KIM vs. VELVET SKY vs. BROOKE TESSMACHER -- three-way Knockouts Title match

Sky and Tessmacher both went straight for Kim as the champ tried to leave the ring several times. Before they got too chummy, Sky and Tessmacher squared off with Sky getting a quick roll-up for a two count.

Kim got back into the match by pulling Rayne to the outside and clotheslining Tessmacher. She kept Sky at bay, and continued to beat on Tessmacher with a backbreaker. Kim put Tessmacher in a Boston Crab, and Sky joined in and put Kim in a Dragon Sleeper as she held onto her respective submission hold.

Tessmacher and Sky exchanged counters before being met with a double missile dropkick from Kim. Tessmacher reversed Kim’s Eat Defeat, but was caught by Sky with In Yo Face. Kim threw Sky out before she could capitalize and pinned Tessmacher for the win.

WINNER: Gail Kim via pinfall at 4:37 to retain the Knockouts Title. I feel like they should have saved this match for Victory Road, but it’s not like I’m distressed about getting it on television. I can’t think of a logical next opponent for Kim so I can see them continuing on with either Tessmacher, Sky, or both.

5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. KURT ANGLE -- Open Fight Night qualifying match

Joe quickly got Angle in the corner and took him down after a series of punches. Angle rolled out of the ring to regain his bearings. Back in the ring, Angle caught Joe with a double-leg take down, but Joe was able to get up and land a few shoulder tackles and a kneedrop for a two count. Joe ran at Angle, but was caught with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Roode came out as the show went to a commercial break.

Roode joined Tenay and Taz at announcer’s booth as the show came back from break. In the ring, Angle was stomping on Joe in the corner. He hit him with a suplex and followed up with a sleeper and an elbow strike for a weak pin attempt. Joe hit Angle with a big boot and a back body senton for a two count.

Angle came back with a trio German suplexes and signaled for the Angle Slam. Joe and Angle exchanged signature moves until Angle finally hit the Angle Slam for a close two count. Angle tried to lock in the ankle lock, but Joe eventually kicked him off. Joe went for the Musclebuster, but Angle countered with a sunset flip for the win.

WINNER: Kurt Angle via pinfall at 12:23. Good match, but it was far from the classics they have delivered in the past. That being said, it was a good television main event, and an enjoyable, small taste of the classic feud that was Joe vs. Angle.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 20 2012, 02:49 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-18-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_61569.shtml) Condensed to mostly in-ring results.

Laurinaitis said he disagreed with the decision of the Board of Directors that was announced this week. He talked about how they restricted the way he is allowed to compete with Cena. That’s a unique way of saying, “they won’t let me pay off wrestlers to interfere on my behalf.” Laurinaitis said he asked the Board to reconsider their decision…and they said no. Punk come out, makes fun of Johnny and is booked in a match with Kane, then before leaving, Johnny tells all the fans to go to hell.

1 – KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. DARREN YOUNG & TITUS O’NEIL

Young kneed Truth in the mid-section in the corner. Quick tag to Kingston, who landed a springboard cross-body for two. O’Neil tried to get involved but was kicked off the apron. Young used the distraction to his advantage and connected on a back suplex that sent Kingston hard onto the apron. Big running splash in the corner by the now-legal O’Neil. Second attempt was met with Kingston’s feet. Truth and Young both tagged in at 2:15 and Truth was a house afire. Lie Detector connected (although it’s no longer called by that name). Kingston and O’Neil predictably got involved, with Kingston getting the better of that exchange. Truth with his finisher for the win.

WINNERS: Truth and Kingston, at 2:59. Surprising they jobbed O’Neil and Young here, but they were really the only tag team left with credibility who could job to the champs heading into their match on Sunday.

Damien Sandow felt beneath himself to wrestle Yoshi Tatsu until Tatsu squawked like a chicken. Sandow charged the ring and beat down Tatsu.

2 – ZACK RYDER vs. DANIEL BRYAN

“Yes” chants erupted once the bell rang. Hard European uppercuts by Bryan, then a knee to the back of Ryder’s head. Ryder brought Bryan down head-first on the mat, but a knee-lift put him back down. Running dropkick in the corner by Bryan. Ryder made his comeback and nailed Bryan with a dropkick off the middle rope. He was tripped up on a Broski Boot attempt. Boot to the head followed by the Yes Lock ended the match.

WINNER: Bryan, at 2:27. A convincing win for Bryan heading into his WWE Title match on Sunday. Too bad it had to be against Ryder, but the ship seems to have sailed on WWE doing something with him.

3 – C.M. PUNK vs. KANE

Kane cornered Punk and pushed him around a little bit. Punk fired back and clotheslined Kane over the top rope and to the floor. Kane landed on his feet and regrouped as they went to break, 1:10 into the match.

They returned at 4:16 with Punk kicking at the legs of Kane. DDT by Punk for a one-count. Figure-Four leg-lock by Punk, which the crowd recognized and shouted “whoo” at. Kane kicked Punk away when he tried another submission move and Punk ended up outside the ring. He brought Kane throat-first across the top rope, then a springboard into a Kane uppercut. Kane sent Punk rib-first into the ring post. “I don’t think that’s going to heal by Sunday,” laughed Bryan. Kane locked Punk in a bear-hug in the middle of the ring. Punk broke the hug but fell victim to a back-breaker for a two-count. Kane continued working the ribs by applying the scissors to the mid-section of Punk. Punk came back with a swinging neck-breaker out of nowhere. Lateral press, still for only one. Missed charge by Kane then a running knee in the corner. First bulldog attempt went nowhere, but a bulldog off the second rope worked. Punk got Kane up for the GTS, but the mid-section gave out. Kick to the head by Kane for a near-fall. Kane placed Punk on the top rope and attempted a suplex. Punk knocked Kane off his perch then hit the flying elbowdrop for two at 10:13. Anaconda Vice attempt, but Kane powered out. Another side slam for two. Clothesline off the top by Kane. Bryan was loving it. He set up for the chokeslam, but Punk kicked Kane in the skull, sending Kane to ringside. Suicide dive by Punk hit his target. Bryan grabbed a chair and almost hit Punk with it. Instead, he hit Kane in the back.

WINNER: Kane, via disqualification, at 11:42. Bryan playing mind games with Punk. Really trying to put him over big on this show.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA vs. CODY RHODES

Santino did an inset interview proclaiming his love for and to the United States Championship. Apparently, Santino and Cody have been in a Twitter war over the past few days. Single-leg take-down by Rhodes, who then slapped the back of Santino’s head. Booker admitted, when prodded by Cole, that the Intercontinental Championship is more prestigious than the US Championship. Santino reversed an Irish Whip but ate an elbow on a charge. Moonsault by Rhodes missed and Santino took out the Cobra. Instead, Cody hit a dropkick for two. Marella caught Cody coming off the ropes with the strike of the Cobra for the pinfall.

WINNER: Marella, at 1:58. The announcers really did a nice job of putting over both championships during the match.

5 – RANDY ORTON vs. SHEAMUS

Based on the booking, I don’t think this match lasts almost a half hour; I’m guessing a DQ occurs and it gets turned into a tag match or something like that. An extended collar-and-elbow tie-up led to a stalemate. Side headlock by Sheamus, then a shoulder tackle put him down. Dropkick by Orton for a one-count. They seem to be pacing themselves for a longer match anyway. Arm-bar by Orton but Sheamus forced a break by backing Orton into the corner. The referee had to break them up. A shoving match broke out and Orton put Sheamus down with a short clothesline. Orton hammered away on Sheamus in the corner, and Sheamus turned it around. The men began to brawl as the official gave them a fair amount of leeway. Sheamus was dumped to ringside and he brought Orton out to continue their assault on each other. Sheamus sent Orton shoulder-first into the ring steps. Orton worked the arm and shoulder of Sheamus, ramming it into the ring post and steel steps. He stomped on the wrist of Sheamus with Sheamus laid across the steps. They went to break at 4:50.

Back at 8:12 of the match. Orton had Sheamus tied up in the middle rope and barely broke before the ref’s count of five. He continued working on the left arm and shoulder of Sheamus. Short-arm DDT by the Viper. Only a two-count at 9:12. Sheamus fought out of a rest-hold, only for Orton to go after the arm once again. Rights and lefts by Sheamus, but again, he couldn’t sustain the momentum. Orton whipped him into the buckle and Sheamus took the bump shoulder-first. Sheamus finally created some separation and tossed Orton out of the ring. Orton climbed onto the apron and was knee-lifted by Sheamus. Sheamus then connected on his patented forearms to the chest of Orton. Sheamus then gathered a head of steam and ran through Orton, sending Orton off the apron and into the barricade. They took the final break at 12:04 of the match.

They returned at 16:07. Sheamus buried several knee-drops into the face and chin of Orton. Cover got two at 16:25. This time, it was Sheamus who tried to wear Orton down with a chin-lock. Knee-lift by Sheamus for a two-count. Sheamus hoisted Orton in the air, but Orton countered with a back-breaker. Hard clotheslines by Orton, then a scoop slam. Belly-to-belly throw from Orton, who then set up for his DDT. Sheamus instead brought Orton throat-first across the top rope. Diving shoulder tackle from Sheamus. Powerslam by Sheamus for two at 19:38. Irish Curse back-breaker for two at 20:25. Sheamus ascended the top rope, but Orton tripped him up. Superplex by Orton. He took his time to crawl over and make the cover, allowing Sheamus to kick out at 21:40. Brogue Kick attempt, but Sheamus missed and got caught on the top rope. Vintage Orton DDT at 22:54. Both men’s finishers were countered, and upon countering Orton’s RKO, Sheamus rolled up his foe for the pinfall.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 23:26.

Orton told Sheamus, “you got me” after the match. Then he stuck out his hand for a shake, but Sheamus wasn’t having it. They carried on a conversation without a mic and Orton again offered his hand. Sheamus shook it and of course, Orton RKO’d him. Wrestlers really need to learn to stop shaking Orton's hand. Orton stood over Sheamus as the show drew to a close.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2012, 02:06 pm
WWE Over The Limit PPV Results: 5-20-12 (next 3 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_61620.shtml)

1 -- PEOPLE'S POWER BATTLE ROYAL

As the PPV started with the copyright warning, sounds of a battle royal were heard in the background. The video feed picked up with men fighting in the ring. Heath Slater was dumped out, then Booker T showed off his ability to read the roster by announcing Michael McGillicutty's elimination. JTG then took a flat-back bump off the ring apron for another elimination. Yoshi was suplexed over the top rope by McIntyre and he sold an ankle injury landing on the floor.

Yoshi limped away in the background as Big Zeke was tossed out. Jey Uso was out next. Meanwhile, Lawler discussed buzz in the locker room about this potentially being John Laurinaitis's final night as authority figure. Suddenly, Mac, Reks, and Hawkins were tossed out. Of course, Mac threw a fit ringside. Titus and D-Young then doubled up on Great Khali to eliminate the big man, creating a sigh of relief for Santino and Rhodes ringside. William Regal, a late entry, was still around, along with Christian. Jimmy Uso then eliminated Titus. D-Young got revenge a few moments later by eliminating Uso.

Down to seven men. Make it six with Regal eliminated by Christian, drawing boos. Cole called this a look at the future of WWE. Alex Riley then eliminated D-Young after Young helped himself over the top rope. Meanwhile, Booker called Miz a one-hit wonder. Cole said they'll talk about that later in the show. Miz then eliminated Riley, so it's a Final Four of Miz, Tyson Kidd, Christian, and David Otunga.

Kidd delivered a springboard double dropkick on Miz and Otunga, then skinned the cat when Miz tried to toss him out. But, Otunga eliminated Kidd from behind. Miz and Otunga came to an agreement and decided to go after Christian, who was heel before he left TV. Christian tried to fight off the two heels, but they cornered him and landed kicks as Cole ranted on Booker. Christian then dumped Otunga over the top rope out of nowhere.

Miz tried to sneak-attack Christian, but he held onto the top rope to avoid elimination. Christian then avoided elimination again. More close shaves before both men found themselves on the ring apron. Christian then head-butted Miz to the gut, sending Miz off the apron to the floor. Christian wins the battle royal. Post-match, Christian pointed to Santino, making his selection to face Santino later in the PPV.

WINNER: Christian at 12:13 to earn a U.S. Title shot later in the show.

2 -- WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- WWE Tag Title match

The heels isolated Kofi throughout the first five minutes before R-Truth tagged in and Vickie provided a distraction to allow the heels to cheat to regain the advantage on Truth. Booker then predicted a title change, giving away there won't be a title change. Meanwhile, Lawler was wrapped up in Vickie's wardrobe selection tonight. Truth scored with a nearfall on Ziggler, but Ziggler came back with a high dropkick for a two count to give the heels control again.

Ziggler & Swagger combined on a wheelbarrow and X-Factor that drove Truth's face into the mat, but it resulted in a two count only. Vickie screamed at Ziggler to finish off Truth, but Truth came back with a small package for a two count. Ziggler then cut off Truth from making a tag to Kofi. Truth suddenly countered a corner move with a Tornado DDT, allowing him to make the tag to Kofi.

Kofi entered hot on Dolph with a springboard flying clothesline. More high-flying offense from Kofi. A Boom Drop got Kofi fired up. He wanted the finisher, but Dolph ducked. Kofi suddenly flew off the top with a twisting lateral press, but Swagger broke up a pin attempt. Kofi then dumped Swagger to the floor, but walked into the Zig-Zag. Dolph made a cover, but Truth broke up a pin attempt. Truth then flew over the top rope onto Swagger ringside. Back in the ring, Kofi nailed Dolph in mid-air with Trouble in Paradise. It was good for the pin, prompting Vickie to flip out ringside.

WINNERS: Kofi & Truth at 12:17 to retain the Tag Titles. Good, high-energy "start" to the PPV (not counting the pre-show-style battle royal). The announcers giving away the finish was the chief drawback to an otherwise fine tag match. (**1/2)

3 -- Divas champion LAYLA vs. BETH PHOENIX -- Divas Title match

Back in the arena, Beth Phoenix came out first before WWE rolled footage of Layla capturing the Divas Title from former Diva Nikki Bella at Extreme Rules last month. Layla scored with early offense before Beth targeted the surgically-repaired knee to begin wearing down the champ. Layla fought back before Beth offered an impressive display of strength with a standing military press, but Layla countered into a single-arm DDT. After a series of close nearfalls each way, Beth kicked Layla's knee, but Layla came right back with the Lay-Out for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Layla at 7:10 to retain the Divas Title. Solid women's match following the Gail Kim vs. Awesome Kong script from TNA several years ago.

4 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. RANDY ORTON vs. CHRIS JERICHO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- World Title match -- Fatal Four-way

Sheamus quickly cleared Del Rio to the outside and Orton quickly cleared Jericho to the outside, then Sheamus and Orton teased coming together, but the heels cut them off. Meanwhile, Cole referenced Jericho and Orton's history back when Orton punted Jericho out of WWE a few years ago. Sheamus and Orton cleared the heels again, then went at it in the ring, resuming their Smackdown battle. The heels then cleared Sheamus before double-teaming Orton. Del Rio and Jericho took a quick trip to the outside to attack Sheamus's shoulder, targeting the his injury to further stack the deck against the champ.

Back in the ring, Orton met the heels with rapid-fire offense before the heels cut him off. Jericho and Del Rio then started arguing, which allowed Orton to knock Del Rio to the outside. As the men battled, Cole announced to WWE's TV audience that Raw is moving to three hours starting July 23, with more to be announced on Raw tomorrow night. Sheamus re-entered the ring and cleared everyone except for Del Rio. The two men battled in the ring before Sheamus landed a rolling sentaun. Ricardo provided a distraction, though, allowing Del Rio to nail Sheamus with a step-up enziguiri for a close two count.

At 8:30, Del Rio slowed things down with a mat-based submission on Sheamus. Sheamus fought back with strikes, a knee lift, and bodyslam for a two count. Del Rio cut off Sheamus again, but Sheamus came back with rapid-fire forearm strikes before Jericho dropkicked both men to the outside. The crowd came to life for Orton-Jericho in the ring, which included Orton dropping Jericho with a snap powerslam. Orton then brought Sheamus back into the ring, but Del Rio cut off Orton before Orton could hit the RKO on Sheamus.

They reset at 12:00 with all four men in the ring. Sheamus scored a close nearfall on Orton, then Orton sent Sheamus flying into the ringpost and out to the floor. Orton then grappled Del Rio and Ricardo for a simultaneous DDT from the second rope. Orton covered Del Rio, but he kicked out in time. Jericho then dropped Orton with the Codebreaker and Orton rolled to the outside. Del Rio caught Jericho from behind with the cross arm-breaker, but Jericho countered into the Walls of Jericho. Sheamus broke it up, but Jericho nailed Sheamus with the Codebreaker. Jericho was slow to cover, allowing Sheamus to kick out in time.

At 14:30, Jericho started kicking and taunting Sheamus. The two men traded control before Jericho applied the Walls of Jericho center-ring. Sheamus tried to reach the ropes, but Jericho dragged him back to center-ring and sat down on the Walls. Suddenly, Orton dropped Jericho with the RKO. Del Rio broke up a pin, then Orton dropped Del Rio with the RKO. Sheamus suddenly nailed Orton with the Brogue Kick, then Jericho rolled up Sheamus for a close two count. Big back-and-forth sequence. Everything came to a standstill as Sheamus grappled Jericho and nailed White Noise for the pin and the win. The crowd wanted Orton to win, but they were okay with Sheamus.

WINNER: Sheamus at 15:54 to retain the World Title. Nice nearfall sequences at the end to make this a standout PPV match. Orton was clearly the top star here. WWE has two more PPVs before Summerslam, but you have to think Sheamus-Orton for the World Title at Summerslam, with Orton winning after Sheamus has a nice four-month run. (***1/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2012, 02:07 pm
5 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. THE MIZ

Brodus delivered an early headbutt that cleared Miz to the outside. Miz tried to sneak-attack Brodus, but Clay cut him off before knocking Miz to the floor. On the outside, Clay lit up Miz with a chop before Miz ran Clay into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Miz wore down Clay before Clay built some momentum and landed The Headbutt. Clay ran into a corner boot, but crotched Miz and climbed up top. Clay delivered an overhead slam before landing The Splash for the pin and the win. Suddenly, a kid hit the ring. WWE went to a replay of Miz dancing, which Lawler tried to narrate, before showing the finish. Back in the ring, several kids assembled in the ring to dance.

WINNER: Clay at 4:12. A basic come-down match after the Fatal Four-way.

6 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. CHRISTIAN -- Intercontinental Title match
 
The announcers did a pre-match bit about Booker not having a "vested interest" in the match, so he was going to sit this one out. Booker then jumped in on commentary 20 seconds in. In the ring, Rhodes assaulted Christian early on before Christian knocked Rhodes to the outside. On the floor, Rhodes rammed Christian into the ring steps before rolling him back into the ring. Back in the ring, Rhodes went after Christian's upper body to target Christian's pre-existing injuries.
 
Four minutes in, Rhodes and Christian spilled over the top rope to the floor and both men sold the effects. Rhodes then popped Christian with an enziguiri before scoring a two count in the ring. The announcers said it appears the lay-off is affecting Christian, who then came back with a kick to the face and missile dropkick from the second rope for a two count. Christian airballed a flying splash, then Rhodes came off the second rope with a moonsault for a two count.
 
Rhodes, upset about the nearfall, said he's tired of being jerked around and he's better than everyone. The announcers said Rhodes is losing his focus. Christian then countered a corner toss and dropped Rhodes with the Killswitch. Christian rolled over Rhodes and scored the pin to capture the IC Title. Afterward, Christian sold emotion as Rhodes rolled out of the ring.
 
WINNER: Christian at 7:25 to capture the IC Title. The match didn't get to that next level, coming across like a basic TV singles match. Damage has been done to Rhodes this year and Christian was a heel prior to his absence, so the crowd wasn't into this until there was a prospect of a title change at the end.
 
7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- WWE Title match
 
The crowd was split for Bryan and Punk with dueling chants as Punk targeted Bryan's left knee. Bryan came back with Yes! kicks, but Punk came back with more offense targeting the knee. Punk then applied a standing submission into a Curb Stomp for a two count. He followed by tossing Bryan over the top rope to the floor. Bryan sold the effects, then rammed Punk into the guardrail when Punk tried to follow up.
 
Back in the ring, Bryan worked over Punk's shoulder/upper back area to return the favor after Punk's submission attack earlier in the match. After Punk tried to fight back, Bryan applied a surfboard stretch into a neck submission bending Punk's body backwards. Punk escaped with elbow strikes before landing forearm strikes to the face. Punk followed with a suplex for a two count. Booker said they may be here for another hour since neither man wants to relent. The crowd picked up a loud dueling chant as the two men traded control.
 
At 12:00, Bryan climbed up top and flew clear across the ring to deliver a headbutt for a two count. Bryan followed up with a submission targeting the upper back before they came to their feet and collided mid-ring after bouncing off the ropes. Punk was the aggressor once the two men came to their feet, but ran into a corner boot, only to drop Bryan with a snap powerslam when Bryan charged at him. Moments later, Punk sent Bryan flying over the top rope to the floor and Bryan sold the knee injury. Punk followed right up with a suicide dive that put both men on the floor.
 
Back in the ring, Bryan caught Punk with a dropkick to the ribs and scored a close two count. Bryan, fired up, assaulted Punk with rapid-fire kicks to the gut, but Punk blocked and scored with a Dragonscrew legwhip. He followed with the figure-four leglock in Flair Country. Punk and Bryan suddenly traded slaps while still in the figure-four as the crowd whoo'ed loudly. Bryan then reached the bottom rope to break the hold.
 
Punk and Bryan reset with a rapid-fire exchange of holds before Bryan popped Punk in the head with a kick strike. Cole said Bryan is going to win his first WWE Title, which meant Punk was going to kick out, which of course happened. Bryan then lowered a kneepad and landed bare knee strikes to the mid-section. Punk hung up Bryan on the top rope, landed a flying clothesline, and covered Bryan for a two count. The crowd, not invested in Bryan as a heel, chanted, "This is awesome," evaluating the performance during the performance.
 
Champ and Challenger came to their feet at 20:00, and traded offense. Punk teased the GTS, but Bryan escaped. Bryan suddenly teased the Yes! Lock, but Punk countered with a roundhouse kick to the head. Punk made a cover, but Bryan got his foot on the bottom rope, then kicked out of a second pin attempt. "Aaaaahhhh!" Punk shouted, selling frustration not being able to put away Bryan. For his next move, Punk went up-top and set up the Macho Man elbow on the anniversary of Randy Savage's death. Punk then came off the top and connected, but he sold the injured ribs after landing the elbow. As the vocal males chanted, "Randy Savage," Punk slowly made a pin attempt, which Bryan kicked out of.
 
At 22:30, Bryan suddenly went nuts on Punk with successive knees and strikes. Bryan chanted, "Yes!" several times before charging Punk and missing with a flying dropkick. Punk then nailed the high knee and tried the bulldog, but Bryan wrestled Punk to the ground and slapped on the Yes! Lock center-ring. Punk teased tapping out, then Bryan rolled Punk over onto his shoulders. The ref counted a three and called for the bell. The announcers said Punk was tapping out. Punk took his title belt and left the ring as Bryan sold shock over what happened. They went to a replay of Bryan's shoulders on the mat with the submission locked in; Punk tapped out one second after the pin was counted.
 
WINNER: Punk at 23:55 to retain the WWE Title. An expectedly very good PPV match between two of the best. It wasn't a blow-away match, but still very good. The finish was interesting - it could lead to a title re-match, or just give Bryan an "out" complain about on TV to advance his heel character. (****)
 
8 -- HUNICO (w/Camacho) vs. RYBACK
 
"Goldberg" chants once the bell sounded for the buffer match before the main event. Early on, Hunico knocked Ryback off his feet, which the announcers drew attention to, then Ryback came back with power offense, including a lift-up powerbomb. Ryback then finished off Hunico with his fireman's carry finisher. Ryback demanded more competition after they replayed the high points from the match before destroying Hunico's bike on the way out.
 
WINNER: Ryback at 1:54.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 21 2012, 02:08 pm
9 -- JOHN CENA vs. JOHN LAURINAITIS -- straight-up one-on-one match -- if Laurinaitis loses, he's "fired" -- any Superstar who interferes is "fired"
 
Once the bell sounded, Laurinaitis high-tailed it out of the ring, but Cena grabbed him, threw him back into the ring, and pulled the shirt over Johnny's head. Cena landed a slap to the chest, then a slap to the back. Laurinaitis tried to cover himself, then Cena hoisted Johnny onto his shoulders and did a big airplane spin. Johnny drunkenly stumbled out of the ring, then Cena retrieved the ring bell and rang the bell in Johnny's ears.
 
Cena then rammed Laurinaitis face-first into the announce table over and over as the announcers cackled. For his next trick, Cena put a headset on Laurinaitis, then put on a headset and did commentary, imitating Cole and Booker T. Laurinaitis mumbled, "Five time, five time," then Cena smashed Laurinaitis into a TV monitor. Cole told Cena to please end this. Back in the ring, Johnny stood up and extended a hand to Cena, who pretended to consider it. Cena then slapped Johnny, dropped him on the mat, and left the ring again.
 
Cena retrieved a mic, then re-entered the ring and noted he just came up with an idea. He told Johnny that he's about to put him in the STF. He said if Laurinaitis taps out, he's fired. He said he'll let go of the hold if Johnny can last ten seconds. Cena applied the hold and Johnny did an over-dramatic tease, but lasted ten seconds. "Wow! That was pretty good!" Cena declared. He said this good news/bad news. Cena said the good news is Johnny made it, but now he's going to do it again. Johnny held on for another ten seconds and Cole excitedly declared he's a courageous, brave man.
 
Cena left the ring again and retrieved some water for a few sips. Cena noted Johnny looks a bit parched, too. He then retrieved a few water bottles and poured the contents of one bottle over Johnny's head. Another bottle was dumped over Johnny's head. Then, Cena dumped water over Johnny's groin area. "Shrinkage!" Booker declared.
 
Cena went back to the outside and retrieved a fire extinguisher from under the ring. Cena taunted Johnny with the extinguisher, then lightly sprayed Johnny before spraying him over and over for another ten seconds. Johnny spilled to the outside, then Cena ran Johnny into the guardrail. Next, Cena retrieved a ringside trashcan and dumped the contents onto Johnny. Cole called it degrading and humiliating. Lawler called it fitting. Johnny then tried to run away again, but Cena retrieved him. Johnny suddenly yanked Cena arm-first across the guardrail, re-injuring Cena's left arm. Johnny, energized, attacked the left arm before grabbing a chair.
 
In the ring, Johnny measured Cena for a chair shot and jabbed Cena in the gut before landing chair shots across the back. Johnny made a cover, but scored a two count only. Laurinaitis then wanted a chair shot to the head, but Cena blocked and intercepted the chair. Cena then delivered a chair-aided Five Knuckle Shuffle. Suddenly, Laurinaitis delivered a low blow. Cole said that's legal because it's pinfall or submission only. After delivering the low blow, Laurinaitis left the ring and tried to leave through the crowd. Johnny crawled through the crowd before reaching the back of the floor section. Johnny disappeared through the curtain at the back of the floor section. In the ring, Cena put his hands in the air, wondering what's going on.
 
Suddenly, a "fired" Big Show emerged with his hands on Johnny, dragging Laurinaitis back through the crowd to the ringside area. Show flung Johnny into the ring and stood on one side of the ring as Cena stood on the other side of the ring. Johnny, cornered, tried begging for his life. Show then stepped on Johnny's hand as Cole said they should just fire Johnny and get it over with. Johnny then walked into Big Show's big right hand for a chokeslam. Show flung Johnny away to Cena for the Attitude Adjustment, but Show popped Cena with a KO Punch. The crowd booed as Show walked to the corner and watched. Johnny came to, then slowly crawled over to Cena. Johnny rolled Cena over and made a cover for a three count.
 
Post-match: Lawler wondered why Show would help Johnny after what he did to him last week on Raw. Show then helped up Johnny and raised his arm as the crowd stood quietly. Show left the ring as Johnny tried to celebrate while selling the effects of Cena's beating. After a replay, Johnny was shown sitting on the ring entrance. He then stood up and limped a few feet as Cena sold in the ring. Cole said he can't wait for Raw tomorrow as Laurinaitis hobbled some more to end the PPV at 9:48.
 
WINNER: Laurinaitis at 17:03. As expected, one of the worst main events people had to pay to see in recent history. WWE gave the Cena Fans some high points with Cena dismantling Johnny early on, fulfilling what Cena advertised before the match. Moving forward, it looks like Cena vs. Big Show is the next feud for Cena while Brock Lesnar remains off TV.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 22 2012, 01:25 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-21-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61661.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOHN CENA vs. DAVID OTUNGA

Once the bell sounded, Otunga ducked under the ropes to avoid a charging Cena as Laurinaitis and Eve were shown on-stage. Otunga eventually bailed to the outside to avoid Cena, who glared down at Otunga, then engaged in a game of cat and mouse. The crowd started a dueling "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks" chant before Otunga caught Cena back in the ring. As Michael Cole played heel announcer, Cena made a comeback. Cena then did the You Can't See Me wave towards Laurinaitis on-stage before dropping Otunga with the AA. Cena followed with the STF for a quick tap-out.

WINNER: Cena via submission at 1:59.

2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO

Orton scored with early offense before Del Rio cleared Orton to the outside. They cut to an early commercial break.

Back from break, Del Rio was working over Orton in the ring. Orton teased a comeback, but Del Rio kicked him in the back. Del Rio then charged Orton near the ropes, but Orton ducked and Del Rio went flying through the ropes to the outside. Del Rio re-entered the ring and ate a powerslam from a fired-up Orton. Orton then set up Del Rio for the second-rope DDT and connected. The women were screaming at this point. Orton then went to That Place to set up for the RKO, but Chris Jericho snuck in the back-door to drop Orton with the Codebreaker for a DQ.

Post-match: Jericho, in leather pants, glared down at Orton, who sold a head injury. Del Rio was out of the picture by this point. Jericho waited out "You Suck" chants before grabbing a mic. Jericho slowly said in a low voice that he's the best in the world at what he does. Jericho repeated it, but louder. "Do you understand?!" he shouted at Orton. Jericho then dropped Orton with another codebreaker before pounding the mat next to Orton. Jericho stood up and glared into the crowd before repeating that he's the best in the world. Jericho teased leaving, but picked up Orton one more time. Jericho delivered a third Codebreaker, then his music played. Jericho left the ring, still glaring at Orton on the way out.

WINNER: Orton via DQ at 7:20. Unless WWE books Jericho vs. Orton on Friday's Smackdown, it looks like Jericho-Orton at No Way Out to give Jericho a fresh, singles match opponent and keep Orton away from World champ Sheamus until perhaps Summerslam. Of course, WWE could book Jericho-Orton on Smackdown, then book a re-match at No Way Out.

3 -- DANIEL BRYAN vs. KANE

Bryan tried to attack Kane early on, but Kane cut him off and landed corner offense before Bryan came back with a flying dropkick. Bryan then went for a top-rope move, but Kane intercepted. Bryan escaped a chokeslam, then dumped Kane over the top rope to the floor. Bryan followed with a suicide dive right in front of the announcers. Punk then dropped his headset to get a closer look at the action. Punk taunted Bryan with a chair shot, then tried to hit Kane, but Bryan stole the chair. Kane then got up and saw Bryan holding the chair. Bryan dropped the chair, then Kane smacked Bryan and picked up the chair. Kane smashed Bryan over and over with the chair, causing a DQ.

Post-match: Kane rolled Bryan back into the ring and grabbed Bryan for a chokeslam. Kane delivered it center-ring as Punk sarcastically said he really feels Bryan's pain right now. Kane then delivered another chokeslam. "One more time!" the crowd chanted, but Kane stuck to his heel roots by ignoring the crowd and leaving the ring. On commentary, Punk noted someone needs to check on Bryan. He then entered the ring to "check on" Bryan. After pretending to check on Bryan, he slapped on the Vice and Bryan tapped out over and over. Punk released, then shouted, "Yes!" over and over as Bryan sold on the mat.

WINNER: Bryan via DQ at 1:49.

4 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. JINDER MAHAL -- non-title match

Back live, Jinder Mahal was completing his ring introduction before entering the ring. Christian started with early offense before Mahal dumped Christian to the outside. Back in the ring, Mahal worked over Christian as Lawler cracked a Booker T joke that made Cole snort. Christian came back with successive clotheslines before slapping Mahal across the face. Christian went to the second rope and delivered a flying European Uppercut.

Christian wanted the Killswitch, but Mahal blocked and landed a knee to the face. Mahal then wanted the Camel Clutch, but Christian slid underneath Mahal and delivered the Killswitch. Christian wasn't done, though, as he went up top for a big frogsplash for the pin and the win. Cole called it a new addition to his repertoire. Christian stood tall in victory before posing for the crowd as Cole plugged the handicap main event still to come.

WINNER: Christian at 3:16.

5 -- KELLY KELLY vs. BETH PHOENIX

Kelly was out first followed by a peeved Phoenix following her Divas Title match loss to Layla last night. A few moments in, they cut to a shot of Layla watching the match on a backstage monitor. Kelly made a comeback on Beth, but Beth cut off a corner handspring with a forearm smash. Beth followed with the Glam Slam for the pin and the win. Layla sold concern backstage afterward.

WINNER: Phoenix at 2:28. Beth is back on track for an apparent re-match against Layla.

6 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & JOHN CENA vs. TENSAI (w/Sakamoto) & JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- two-on-three handicap match -- lumberjack match

Less than a minute into the match, Laurinaitis walked out on-stage and stood on a crutch. The faces absorbed an early attack before Swagger got cocky and did too much posing, allowing Cena to destroy Swagger with a clothesline. Swagger scampered over to his corner and tagged in Tensai, who attacked Cena as the crowd taunted him with "Albert" chants. Sheamus then tagged in and Tensai blasted him to the outside. The lumberjacks fought Sheamus, so Sheamus tackled half of the jacks before Jericho grabbed Sheamus's foot to slow him down re-entering the ring. Tensai used the "help" to cut off Sheamus and begin a three-on-one attack. They cut to break five minutes in.

Back from break, the heels were still working over Sheamus. Tensai blasted Sheamus with a corner splash before throwing Sheamus to the outside for the jacks to inflict damage. Sheamus tried fighting them all off before rolling back into the ring. Swagger followed up on the jacks's attack as the ref put one medical glove on. No sign of blood in the ring, though, as the heels continued working over Sheamus. Ref Robinson put the other medical glove on before WWE cut to a shot of Big Show wandering out on-stage. Cole said in the "wee hours of this morning," Show was re-signed to a contract by Laurinaitis. They cut to a shot of Lord Tensai bleeding from the forehead as he waited on the ring apron while Swagger and Sheamus brought the match to a standstill.

Tensai tagged in and blasted away at Sheamus, who tried fighting back from his knees. The crowd fired up as Sheamus landed offense, but Tensai cut him off and scored a two count. And, another tag, this time to Ziggler. Swagger tagged back in moments later. Sheamus fought out of the corner again, then delivered a rolling sentaun to Swagger. The crowd went nuts when Cena finally hot-tagged into the match and cleaned house on Ziggler, who also tagged in.

Cena set up for the Five Knuckle Shufle, but the heel lumberjacks suddenly jumped Sheamus, prompting Cena to go flying over the top rope splashing the jacks on the outside. The jacks eventually rolled Cena back into the ring, then joined Cena in the ring to maul and dismantle Cena and Sheamus, causing chaos.

WINNER: No Decision when the brawl occurred at 15:10. This was a match made for the DVR with an extended, extended beat down on Sheamus.

Suddenly, babyfaces stormed the ring, led by WWE champion C.M. Punk. The faces cleared the ring until Great Khali finally hit the ring a minute later. In the chaos, Cena left the ring and went up the ramp looking for Big Show. Bodies flew in and out of the ring before Punk took control in the ring.

WWE cut backstage to show Cena finding Laurinaitis and demanding to know where Big Show is. Laurinaitis shouted that he doesn't know, but if he touches him, he'll fire him. Cena stood his ground and clenched his jaw before turning around to take a big KO Punch from Show. Show stood over Cena, then walked down the hallway as the show ended four minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 28 2012, 12:02 pm
WWE NXT Results: 5-23-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61735.shtml)

1 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JINDER MAHAL

Bateman plays to a "U-S-A!" chant and takes Mahal down. After some back-and-forth, Bateman goes on sustained offense. Mahal regains control. The crowd is really behind Bateman, but it is more xenophobic than anything else. Bateman counters a suplex with a lateral press and he turns up the pace. Running neckbreaker from Bateman for a two count. Big corner splash and a missing dropkick gets a nearfall for Bateman. Mahal with a variety of knees, then the Camel Clutch and Bateman taps.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 6:30. The pacing of this match was just off. I feel like it didn't get moving until Bateman's final comeback and the ending seemed to come from nowhere.

2 - PERCY WATSON vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater shoves Watson, then runs to the ropes to start the match. Watson shows off his speed and power, and it looks like he has a couple of new moves in his skillset.

Slater has a stretch of offense, but he can't put Watson away. Watson gets his boots up on a top rope move from Slater to turn things around. Percy fires up the crowd and lands the Highsman for a nearfall. Watson lands on his feet after a suplex, and scores the Percycution for the win.

WINNER: Percy Watson in 6:30. Another match that didn't really get in gear until the very end. I've seen much better from both. The format of this show has fallen apart in the last two weeks, and they didn't mention one word about the "Percy Watson ambushing people" story in the slightest.

3 - ALICIA FOX vs. MAXINE

Maxine overpowers the much-taller Fox at the beginning, but Fox returns the favor. Fox shoves Maxine down, so Maxine tries a Thesz Press Press, but Fox forgets to fall backwards, and then remembers. Maxine's offense draws a crowd reaction. Fox can't get traction. Fox begs Maxine to leave her hair alone. Fox elbows out of a chinlock and starts a comeback, but Maxine cuts her off. Maxine wants a running crossbody, but Fox hits a dropkick. Fox with a bridging suplex for a nearfall. Fox with a roll-up for two, then Maxine slips through and puts on the Dragon Sleeper with scissors on the mat. Fox taps out.

WINNER: Maxine in 6:15. Not only was that long by Divas match standards, but the trite "booking 101" formula was broken, as the person who had the bulk of the offense actually won. Maxine has her in-ring psychology down well, and carries her character nicely in the ring - you really get a sense of who she is. The size difference made the win impressive, too. I very much want to see Maxine spend some time with Natalya or Beth Phoenix.

4 - GREAT KHALI & EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DREW MCINTYRE & JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis and Khali to start, vintage Khali offense. The two teams go back-and-forth for a few minutes. Jackson dumps McIntyre and Curtis outside.

Jackson is still controlling the action out of the break with a series of bodyslams on Curtis. McIntyre chopblocks Jackson on the apron, and they isolate Jackson for a bit. Jackson bodyslams his way to freedom and Khali comes in. Khali sends McIntyre out of the ring and a Punjabi Plunge on Curtis ends the match.

WINNER: Great Khali & Ezekiel Jackson in 9:15. Does anything need to be said other than "it was a 9-minute match with Ezekiel Jackson and The Great Khali?"
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 28 2012, 12:04 pm
WWE Superstars Results: 5-24-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to james's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61764.shtml)

1 - TYSON KIDD vs. ANTONIO CESARO (w/Aksana)

The match starts with the combined technical acumen that you would expect from this pair on-display. The larger Cesaro uses power combined with holds, but Kidd counters with speed. Matt Striker refers to Cesarso's "Chikara style." Is he allowed to say that? Delayed gutwrench suplex from Cesaro to show off his strength. Cesaro's work in the corner looks nasty. The crowd is getting behind Kidd, but Kidd can't get offense against the larger Cesaro. Kidd breakdances on a standing Cesaro and transitions to a roll-up to start a flurry of offense.

Kidd wants the Sharpshooter, but Cesaro gets out, so Kidd kits a big leg drop to the face. Kidd with a top-rope blockbuster for a two count. Cesaro tries to rip Kidd's ear off when Kidd tries the Sharpshooter again. Cesaro manages to stand up tall against a tornado DDT attempt, throw Kidd in the air, and then uppercut him - it looks like a Mortal Kombat juggle. Cesaro with his reverse pumphandle front suplex for the win.

WINNER: Antonio Cesaro in 7:30. This is a beautiful match. If I see this pairing on June 5, my ticket price will be justified.

2 - WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. JTG & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY - non-title match

JTG is continuing his new style. JTG and Kingston start off, and Kingston with a monkey flip to send JTG half-way across the ring. Kingston and R-Truth double-team JTG, then the heels isolate R-Truth for a stretch. McGillicutty shows off a number of moves that are new to him. Double tag out and Kingston goes nuts on McGillicutty. Boom Drop and Kingston calls for Trouble in Paradise, but JTG pulls McGillicutty from the ring and uses handmotions to explain that Kingston was about to finish him. Kingston dives on them both.

R-Truth with control out of the break. Double-heel kick from the tag team champions for a nearfall. McGillicutty forces a whiff on Trouble in Paradise to draw Kingston out of the way and JTG runs interference for McGillicutty. Kingston takes punishment in the opposing corner. JTG is like an rabid animal on offense, drawing the crowd into Kingston's corner. Kingston manages a hot tag and Truth flattens JTG with offense. The action breaks down and Truth shrugs off the Mugshot and counters with the Little Jimmy (nee "What's Up?") for the win.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston and R-Truth in 11:30. Very nice match. Up until JTG's disappearance from the ring and subsequent return, he was only one step above Khali in my book of "boring wrestlers." He has done an absolutely astounding job at turning his in-ring work around, and his wrestling tonight was very, very entertaining. He acted like a man on a mission and delivered very believable offense. The pairing with Michael McGillicutty is potentially good long-term.

3 - ZACK RYDER vs. HEATH SLATER

Josh Mathews accidentally calls Slater "the party starter," which is Curt Hawkins's gimmick. Slater mocks Ryder and Ryder refuses to take it lying down. Slater has some nice, crisp offense.

Ryder is struggling to get traction after the commercial, and there's some blood in Slater's mouth. Ryder counters a top-rope move with a flapjack and Ryder goes on the attack. Broski Boot for a nearfall. Ryder wants a Rough Ryder, but Slater plants him face-first into the turnbuckle and hits a neckbreaker for a nearfall.

They fight on the turnbuckle and Ryder sends Slater to the mat, then a missile dropkick for two. Ryder goes to the top and Slater jumps up for his patented snap powerslam for a nearfall. Slater wonders how he can get a three count, and just beats on Ryder in the corner. Ryder gets boots up, and lands the Rough Ryder for the pin.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 10:30. This was an enjoyable match. Heath Slater has the ability to draw heat with his in-ring mannerisms, which is good since he never gets any mic time. Slater also regrew his hair, and grew a bit of a beard, which makes him look a bit more heelish for some reason.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 28 2012, 12:05 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-54-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61770.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA Knockouts tag champions ODB & ERIC YOUNG vs. TNA Knockouts champion GAIL KIM & MADSION RAYNE -- non-title match

Kim and Young started the match with Young putting Kim in a headlock. He put her in a bear hug, which caused ODB to get jealous and demand to be tagged in. ODB hit a fallaway slam as the show cut to commercial.

The show came back with Kim hitting a flying clothesline on ODB. Kim tagged in Rayne, who got in some offense for a two count. Rayne tagged Kim back in, and they tried to use some double-team offense, but Rayne walked away, which caused Kim to get angry with her.

Young got into the ring, took of his pants, and started hitting armdrags on both Rayne and Kim. ODB once got upset at Young, and asked him if he took his pants off because he was planning on knocking the girls up. Young tagged ODB into the match, and she tried to hit another fallaway slam, but had her legs pulled from under her and held onto by Rayne, allowing Kim to pick up the victory.

WINNERS: Kim & Rayne via pinfall at 6:35. The match was fine for what it was, and I assume this will probably lead into Kim feuding with ODB. I mean, she doesn’t really have anyone else to work with who has been on television recently.

2 -- ROB VAN DAM vs. GUNNER

RVD and Gunner exchanged blows on the outside with Gunner getting the better of the exchange, slamming RVD’s head on the ring apron. He threw a chair into ring, and before he could use it RVD caught him with a spinning heel kick and the Rolling Thunder. Gunner came back with an elbow off an Irish whip for a two count. RVD caught Gunner with yet another spinning heel kick, and followed it up with a very long Five-Star Frog Splash for the win.

WINNER: Rob Van Dam via pinfall at 2:50. Short match that fell short of a squash match on the merit that Gunner got some offense in. It was weird to see him lose so fast, but I’m not as high on him as some people seem to be, so I wasn’t affected much by the decision.

3 -- TNA Television champion DEVON vs. GARETT BISCHOFF -- TNA Television Title match

Devon got Bischoff in a few holds before following up with a spinning dive as the crowd chanted “Devon.” The crowd then began to chant, “We want tables,” as Devon and Bischoff stared at each other. Before they could get back into it, Robbie E. and Robbie T. came out to beat on Devon, which caused the referee to call for the disqualification.

WINNER: Devon via disqualification at 1:50. I applaud TNA for sticking to their guns about the Television Title being defended on a weekly basis. That being said, the four wrestlers that were featured in this segment are probably at the bottom of the totem pole of wrestlers I care about.

4 -- TNA X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. JOEY RYAN -- Gut Check non-title match

Ryan quickly caught Aries with an armdrag, and then proceeded to sleazily gloat in the corner. Aries came back with some offense, and did some gloating of his own. Ryan went to the outside, but was caught with a cross-body from Aries over the top rope to the outside.

Inside the ring, Aries yanked on Ryan’s chest hair, but was caught with a dropkick for a two count. Ryan tried to go for the pumphandle slam, but Aries countered with an elbow. Eventually, Ryan hit a pumphandle suplex for a two count. Aries came back with a running dropkick in the corner, and followed up with the brainbuster for the win.

WINNER: TNA X division champion Austin Aries via pinfall at 4:08. Being from Southern California, I have had the privilege of seeing Ryan wrestle countless times. I was really excited to see him on Impact, but I wish the audience’s first impression of Ryan reflected the work ethic and charisma he puts forth every month at PWG shows. That being said, it was a fine television match, and Ryan looked totally competent in the Impact Wrestling setting. I hope Ryan gets the nod.

5 -- TNA World Heavy champion BOBBY ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Heavyweight Title match

Roode and Styles exchanged some offense that boiled over into a series of Irish whips with Styles getting the better of Roode with a dropkick. Roode rolled to the outside as the show cut to commercials.

Back from the break, Roode threw Styles into the ringpost, causing him to fall outside. Roode followed Styles outside and threw him into the ringpost again before throwing him back into the ring for a one count. He beat on Styles while the announcers questioned whether Styles’s mind was preoccupied with the drama surrounding him, Kazarian, Daniels, and Dixie Carter.

Roode charged at Styles, but was met with a back body drop to the outside. Styles followed Roode to the outside and ran at him, but Roode caught him with a sick-looking hip toss into the ring steps. The screen split to show Hogan being informed that his guest had arrived.

The show came back with Roode hitting a suplex and a knee drop for a two count. Roode locked Styles in a chinlock, but Styles was able to come back with a springboard forearm for another two count. Roode tried to go for a superplex, but Styles knocked him off and hit a missile dropkick. Roode and Styles went through another series of exchanges, this time Roode came out on top with a spear that sent Styles back-flipping. Styles came back with some kicks and tried to hit the Styles Clash, but Roode countered with the spinebuster and the fishermen suplex for a close two count. Roode attempted another fishermen suplex, but was caught with a Pele Kick from Styles. Styles went for a springboard 450 that saw Roode putting his knees up. The Champ followed up with another fishermen suplex for the pin.

WINNER: Bobby Roode via pinfall at 21:27 to retain the TNA World Heavyweight Title. The match was a little slow at first, but that could have been the fault of a pair of commercial breaks. Towards the end, it turned out to be one heck of a match, and the best part about it was the fact that Roode beat one of TNA’s mainstay “stars,” A.J. Styles, clean. A heel that wins clean, wow, it’s been a long time since wrestling fans have had one of those.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 28 2012, 12:08 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 5-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_61799.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CHRISTIAN vs. HUNICO

Match began right after the break. Hunico showed some fire, but fell victim to a back body-drop. A distraction by Camacho outside the ring led to Hunico shoving Chrisitan into the ring post. A dive put Christian down again. Back in the ring, a pin attempt by Hunico garnered him a two-count. Christian came back with a face-plant. Hunico caught a Christian second-rope dropkick and pulled out a jackknife cover for two. Second-rope flying elbow. Camacho dropkicked off the apron by Christian. That led to Hunico trying his finish, but Christian countered and h it the Killswitch. To the top he went, and a frog-splash got the pin.

WINNER: Christian, at 3:02. Good enhancement win for Christian, though the lack of an actual turn back to babyface is bothersome. How are fans supposed to relate or even understand his character if they don’t understand his motivations or if his actions from one show to the next don’t make sense?

2 – THE USOS vs. TITUS O’NEIL & DARREN YOUNG

They showed the two teams arguing backstage earlier in the day, with the Usos making fun of Young and O’Neil’s repeating sing-songs, and Young and O’Neil mocking The Usos’ tribal dance. Double headbutt to O’Neil from the Usos. Another quick double-team move followed. O’Neil fought out of the face corner and Young kicked Jey behind the ref’s back, leading to Young getting the tag and the heels doing some double-teaming of their own. Booker continued making fun of Cole’s physique, which began on the show last week (or thereabouts). Hot tag to Jimmy at about the 2:00 mark. Running butt splash in the corner on Young, but O’Neil broke up the pin. Jey and O’Neil brawled outside the ring. Jimmy connected on a superkick and went to the top. A distraction by O’Neil led to Young knocking Jimmy off the top rope. He heels hit their double-team finish for the pinfall.

WINNERS: O’Neil and Young, at 3:13. They fit a lot of action in that time-frame. I could barely keep up typing what was going on, and I did not expect that proclamation to come during an Usos vs. O’Neil & Young match.

3 – BRIAN EDWARDS & KEVIN BENDL vs. RYBACK

The jobbers got the mic and insulted Wilkes-Barre and Ryback, saying Ryback has never beaten two guys at once. Their promo was thankfully interrupted by Ryback’s music. Ryback was sporting a black eye, and he even got some pyro (once in the ring – so we didn’t see it). As the bell rang, Ryback picked one up and knocked him into the other. Hard spinebuster on Bendl, then a powerbomb. He clotheslined Edwards, folding him in half. Ryback got both men up for his finisher at the same time. He then pinned both.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:28. I say he’s impressive every week, but this was a little something extra.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA vs. RICARDO RODRIGUEZ

How did they not book this as a Tuxedo match? Rodriguez, who came out in his suit, introduced himself. Rodriguez did a drop-down then a leap-frog. They did a cris-cross but Santino stopped and just watched Ricardo. Afterward, Santino took Ricardo’s pulse and gave him an airplane spin. Santino laughed so hard he lost his balance and fell out of the ring. Marella climbed under the ring so Rodriguez, thinking he was smart, checked for him on the other side. But Santino came out the original side with his Cobra, and struck Rodriguez when Ricardo finally turned around.

WINNER: Marella, at 1:52. Well, the announcers thought it was hilarious.

4 – SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER

The two men fought hard over a lock-up. Neither man got a clear advantage a minute into the match until Sheamus connected on a few hard right hands. He hit a diving shoulder tackle off the top rope on Swagger. Swagger tried to take a break but Sheamus ran him over. Vickie Guerrero got the attention of the ref, allowing Sheamus to be distracted and for Swagger to trip him up on the apron. Sheamus held his foot in pain on the outside as they went to break a little over 2:30 into the contest.

They returned at 5:59 with Swagger stomping on the injured appendage of Sheamus. Swagger got to show off his unique style and move-set in working over his opponent’s ankle. Sheamus worked his way to his feet and began his comeback at 8:25. Hard forearm shots to the chest of Swagger, and Sheamus had a glint of evil in his eye. He suplexed Swagger into the ring and made the cover, getting a two-count at 9:14. Brogue Kick missed and Swagger dove, taking out the leg. Vader Bomb for two at the 9:55 mark. Sheamus finally connected on the Brogue Kick for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 10:34. Better match between these two than I expected.

5 – YOSHI TATSU vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

Tatsu attacked as soon as the bell rang, but Sandow hid between the ropes, demanding the referee do his job. Sandow aggressively went after Tatsu with knees to the mid-section, then a side Russian leg-sweep. Neck-tie neck-breaker by Sandow for the win. He did a cartwheel in celebration after the match.

WINNER: Sandow, at :45. Good size and look for Sandow at least. Too early to tell much about his in-ring chops, except for what is known about him in FCW.

6 – KANE vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. RANDY ORTON – TRIPLE-THREAT, #1 CONTENDER MATCH

Rodriguez was back out to handle the ring introduction for Del Rio, but God bless him, he was still selling the effects of the Cobra. Del Rio was the first to exit the ring, courtesy of Orton, 12 seconds in. Low dropkick by Kane on Orton. Cover got two. Del Rio came back to make sure neither Kane nor Orton were able to establish much momentum. Kane though ended up putting Del Rio and Orton to ringside. He attacked both men out there, but Orton turned the tables on both. He bounced Kane’s head off the announce table, then tried to go for his vintage DDT. Before he could, Del Rio leapt up on the apron and kicked Orton in the head. All there men convalesced as they went to break at 2:18.

Back at 5:15 with Kane hammering away on Del Rio in the corner. He was also having his way with Orton. Del Rio’s chance to shine was next, as he choked Orton in the corner. Orton though dropkicked Del Rio off the apron at 6:27. Sidewalk slam by Kane on Orton for two. Orton with a few rights to Del Rio, then a clothesline. Powerslam on Kane, then one for Del Rio. Kane was clotheslined over the top rope. Rope-assisted DDT by Orton on Del Rio. He set up for the RKO, but Orton was shoved off. Kane picked Orton’s ankle, pulled him out of the ring and threw him into the ring steps. Kane choked Del Rio over the top rope, but missed a clothesline off the top. Kane chokeslammed Del Rio, but Bryan again came out. This time he got on the apron with a chair. Their eyes met, neither sure what to do. Bryan left the apron and ran to the back as Kane tried to give chase. He didn’t’ get far though and went back into the ring. Bryan came back out again and again Kane saw him as he was about to get into the ring. That distraction allowed Orton to RKO Kane. Del Rio broke up the pin attempt and pinned Kane himself for the three-count.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 10:16.

The finish was replayed, then they showed Del Rio and Rodriguez celebrating atop the ramp. From behind though, Sheamus attacked. He laid Del Rio out with a shot to the back of the head. He promised to kick Del Rio’s head off at No Way Out. The show ended with Sheamus standing over Del Rio.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on May 29 2012, 11:15 pm
WWE RAW Results: 5-28-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61856.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring result. No personal comments from me as I've yet to see the show.

1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

The bell sounded and Del Rio tattooed Santino with kicks and stomps. Del Rio then missed with a corner attack and Santino scored with successive moves. Santino tried the Cobra, but Del Rio kicked Santino in the gut and slapped on the cross arm-breaker. Santino immediately tapped out to end the match in less than a minute. Post-match: Ricardo announced Del Rio as the winner in Santino's face over and over. Del Rio then stuffed the Cobra in Santino's mouth to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 0:50.

2 -- WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. JACK SWAGGER & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- WWE Tag Title match

Truth's opening strategy was doing a lot of dancing to throw Swagger off his game. The tag champs then double-teamed Ziggler and knocked him to the floor. Kofi & Dolph celebrated their first quarter victory at the expense of the heels before Raw went to commercial.

Back from break, Swagger was working over Kingston in the ring as Vickie screamed on the outside. Cole noted the challengers took control of the match during the break. Kofi tried to make a comeback out of the corner, but the heels continued to double-team. Truth took a hot tag at 6:20 and cleaned house before delivering a DDT to Swagger for a two count. All four men found themselves in the ring, then Kofi cleared Zigs to the outside. Truth then dropped Swagger with the Little Jimmy for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ringside, Vickie was beside herself as the champs celebrated in the ring. After the champs left, the camera stayed with the heels selling anger. Dolph Ziggler said he's better than this and slammed his hands on the mat before leaving the ring. Vickie tried to console Swagger, who called after Dolph on the way out.

WINNERS: Kofi & Truth at 7:06 to retain the Tag Titles. Time for Ziggler to find his way on his own again?

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title match with title ramifications

The wrestlers felt each other out as Cole noted their backgrounds starting out on the independents before "making it big" in WWE. The announcers also plugged Show-Clay coming up later, including a reference to Clay's 20+match winning streak. Bryan and Punk continued to feel each other out and trade control before Bryan knocked Punk to the outside and shouted, "Yes!" Bryan measured Punk for a move on the outside, but Punk avoided and followed with a turnaround cross-body from the second rope. The two men sold on the outside, then A.J. suddenly came down the ramp for the TV version of this match-up. Punk stared at A.J., who gleefully clapped while wearing a C.M. Punk t-shirt, then Punk rolled Bryan back into the ring prior to a break.

Back from break, Punk was stomping away at Bryan while A.J. peered over the top of the ring apron from the outside. A.J. sold concern when Punk missed with a turnaround splash attempt, then Bryan dropkicked Punk across the ring. Bryan followed with a submission working over Punk's left arm before arm-snapping Punk. "Yes! Yes! Yes!" Bryan shouted before nailing a running dropkick in the corner for a two count. Bryan followed with a Northern Lights suplex for a two count before wearing down the left arm/shoulder again.

Punk broke free before the two men slowly came to their feet to engage in another exchange. Punk built some momentum with one good arm, but couldn't put Bryan away. Bryan came back with European Uppercuts before they fought to the corner at 13:00. Punk wanted a springboard maneuver and connected with a flying clothesline for a two count. Punk, exhausted, slowly set up Bryan for a top-rope move as A.J. turned her head to sell inner conflict. Bryan then crotched Punk on the top turnbuckle before delivering a big superplex after pausing to let the audience soak it up. Bryan made a cover, but Punk kicked out in-time.

Bryan went to the corner at 14:30 and tried to remove the turnbuckle pad, which brought A.J. to the apron to argue with the ref. A.J. inadvertently helped Bryan, who removed the turnbuckle pad, then told A.J. to get down. Next, Punk nailed Bryan with a kick to the face. Punk tried to follow with a corner attack on Bryan, but Bryan lifted Punk into the air and right into the corner turnbuckle. Bryan made the cover for a three count, with A.J. indirectly costing Punk the match.

Post-match: Bryan celebrated over and over as A.J. frowned. Bryan then turned around to find a chair shot from Kane. The crowd popped for the previously-dastardly heel Kane, who delivered a chokeslam to Bryan on the chair. A.J. then tossed a chair to Punk, who used it to destroy Kane before rolling him out of the ring. A.J. was smitten ringside. Punk stood tall in the ring as Kane retreated to the outside and Bryan disappeared.

WINNER: Bryan at 15:23 to unofficially become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Another match and another great performance. Bryan looked like he could have gone another 25 or 30 minutes out there. As for the Kane aspect of this, what a mess trying to explain how the audience is supposed to receive Kane. (***)

4 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. THE MIZ -- non-title match

Miz nailed Christian with an early kick to the face for a two count that seemed to stun the crowd a bit. Miz followed with a corner kick as Rhodes accused Christian of sitting on the fence between classic and contemporary. Rhodes summed it up for Lawler that he's old. Miz continued to work over Christian as Rhodes said he will make the choice on when to cash in his IC Title re-match. Christian made a comeback before nailing a sit-out DDT. He then measured Miz for Edge's Spear, but Miz blocked with a boot to the face.

Rhodes slammed down his headset and stood up to distract Christian. Miz suddenly rolled up Christian from behind, but scored a two count only. As Rhodes walked away in the background, Miz measured Christian for the Skullcrushing Finale, but Christian shoved him off. Christian then nailed Miz with the Killswitch. Christian wasn't done, as he climbed up top for his new Frogsplash finisher. It was good for the pin as Rhodes watched on the stage.

WINNER: Christian at 4:15. Basic advancement of the Christian-Rhodes feud ahead of their eventual title re-match. Miz had a good showing this week, but ultimately is in the role of enhancing other stars before heading off to film Marine 3.

5 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DAVID OTUNGA -- non-title match

Otunga was dominant early on, motivated by trying to impress Big Johnny. However, he started posing and lost his focus, which allowed Sheamus to make a comeback with successive clotheslines. Sheamus then hung Otunga out to dry on the ring apron to deliver ten successive forearm strikes to the chest as the announcers amused themselves with lawyer jokes. Sheamus followed with White Noise center-ring. Sheamus wasn't done, though, as he took Otunga's head off with a Brogue Kick for the pin and the win. Lawler said Del Rio should be paying attention ahead of their title match at No Way Out.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:47.

- Apparently the main event match between Brodus Clay and the Big Show never took place. Kofi and R-Truth tried to help out Clay but all three got squashed by the Big Show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2012, 02:57 am
WWE NXT Results: 5-30-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61944.shtml)

1 - THE USOS vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - tag match

William Regal points out that Reks's and Hawkins's new pink and black outfits make them look like they wish they were Harts. Jey makes Reks look foolish, so Reks consults with Hawkins. Reks responds with power. Jey regains control, and The Usos isolate Hawkins. Jey superkicks Hawkins, but Reks pulls Hawkins from the ring. Jey hits a splash onto the pair at ringside then Jimmy does the same.

Jey is controlling Hawkins out of the break, and Reks has some blood on his face. Reks is finally able to get a tag and takes Jey down. Hawkins and Reks control Jey for a stretch. Jimmy finally gets a tag and shows fire. Jimmy gets distracted by Hawkins, though, allowing Reks to surprise him. Jey breaks up the tag, and Reks ties up Jimmy in the ropes, but Jey frees him. Hawkins gets involved and the ref is distracted by Jimmy trying to enter, too, allowing Hawkins and Reks to hit a new tag team finisher for the win.

WINNERS: Hawkins & Reks in 11:10. I pity the live audience that had to sit through what amounted to an 11-minute dark match between people they haven't seen on TV in a real role in years, with no build or anything. The match itself was fine, but I've seen these two teams go at it so many times on NXT, it's stale.

2 - TAMINA SNUKA vs. KAITLYN

They both try to use power against each other, but Kaitlyn fights out of a corner to take control. Kaitlyn uses her legs to control Snuka, but Snuka's strength keeps her in charge. Maxine gets comfortable on commentary and starts to rip into Kaitlyn. There's a brief exchange of chain wrestling. Kaitlyn with her leg full nelson hold, and Snuka taps.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 5:00. The commentary was focused on re-igniting a feud between Kaitlyn and Maxine; I consider that a good sign.

3 - JUSTIN GABRIEL & PERCY WATSON & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JTG & MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY & JOHNNY CURTIS - six-man tag match

Watson and JTG start the match and go back-and-forth. Justin Gabriel comes in, and does not seem to be showing any ring rust. The action breaks down a bit, but the faces clear the heels from the ring to send it to break.

McGillicutty is controlling Bateman out of the break. Bateman is isolated, until Bateman rolls out from a top-rope knee drop from Curtis. Watson gets the tag and delivers a beating on Curtis, but a ref distraction lets JTG to dump Watson outside then get a tag. JTG taunts Watson while keeping him from making a tag. Watson is isolated as the heel team continues to distract the referee.

Watson with a hip toss to draw a double tag out. Gabriel with quick kicks on JTG, and a big roundhouse sends JTG to the mat. Gabriel with a wild sit-out suplex slam, and the action falls apart. Bateman with a suicide dive to clear the outside, and Gabriel takes the win with a top-rope leaping tornado DDT of sorts.

WINNERS: Justin Gabriel, Percy Watson, and Derrick Bateman in 12:00. Good match. Everyone made good use of their minutes.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2012, 02:59 am
WWE Superstars Results: 5-31-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_61982.shtml)

1 - ALICIA FOX vs. BETH PHOENIX

Fox tries an early attack, but Phoenix knocks her around. Phoenix shouts at the entrance for Divas champ Layla to come out, so Fox attacks her from behind. Phoenix lands outside, Fox follow and pays the price. Phoenix tosses her back in the ring and abuses her some more. Scott Stanford says that Natalya is the only person Phoenix gets along with right now.

Fox tries to fight back and Phoenix punishes her some more on the ropes and in the corner. Phoenix gets annoyed after Fox gets a two count on a roll-up. Phoenix wants a powerbomb, but Fox fights back then rolls down and into a pin for two. Fox with a flurry of offense. Fox whiffs a 450 leg drop, and gets the Glam Slam in return.

WINNER: Beth Phoenix in 4:45. It's mighty hard to boo Beth Phoenix when she's such a totally dominant monster and a smooth worker. They can't get heat on her like this, because the audience hasn't been given reason to care about Alicia Fox. I enjoyed watching Fox get dissected like a frog in high school biology class. This match needs to be on TV to build Phoenix up for the eventual match with Layla, Natalya, or Kharma after the countless matches of losing to roll-ups in the last year.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. TENSAI (w/Sakamoto)

Tensai drags Sakamoto to the ring by his hair before the match. Tensai starts off strong. Riley hits a dropkick from ringside to Tensai, which enrages him. Tensai rips Riley apart in the ring. Riley refuses to submit to the nerve hold. Riley drops bombs on Tensai but Tensai's size and power is too much for Riley to overcome. Tensai with an ugly two-hand chokeslam then a running senton splash for the win.

WINNER: Tensai in 3:35. Alex Riley still gets these crazy crowd reactions, but he has no TV time other than in backstage segments. I don't know how he does it, but others in his position need to copy it. At least WWE recognizes that Tensai does not have any business on Raw; when will they recognize that Alex Riley does? Tensai has upped the tempo which aids the matches, but he's still hard to invest in emotionally. His character just is lacking.

3 - YOSHI TATSU vs. JINDER MAHAL

Tatsu's speed works for a moment, but Mahal catches him by the hair and lands a series of knee strikes to Tatsu's head. Mahal fires up his typical offensive routine. The crowd is firmly in Tatsu's corner. Tatsu gets in a number of kicks, but Mahal trips him on a spinning heel kick attempt. Tatsu gets a knee in the back and Mahal sits into a Camel Clutch for the tap-out victory.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 3:45. These two work together well (I've like previous matches between them), but Mahal really needs to change up his formula. He follows the same script every time, and the only difference is at what points his opponents get in offense. It gets old, despite the quality.

4 - IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. DREW MCINTYRE - non-title match

McIntyre's power gives him some control in the beginning. Christian gets a bit frustrated as McIntyre continues to dominate him. McIntyre telegraphs a back body drop, giving Christian a chance to make a comeback. The crowd is buying into Christian as a babyface despite the lack of back-story. McIntyre pushes Christian off the top rope and to the ringside and they cut to break.

McIntyre is stomping Christian in the ring. McIntyre with a slick belly-to-back suplex on Christian from inside the ring while Christian was on the apron. That's a unique spot and McIntyre should make it a signature move. Christian can't get traction, then is finally able to use his speed and smarts to gain the advantage. McIntyre blocks a sunset flip then catches a second-rope cross-body and immediately transitions to a sick backbreaker. Christian tries a schoolboy from a fireman's carry for two. Christian eats an absolutely brutal reverse Alabama Slam for a nearfall.

McIntyre eats the pendulum kick, then lands a massive DDT from the top to get a nearfall. Christian calls for the spear, but McIntyre catches it and turns it into an F5-like move for two. Christian blocks the Future Shock DDT and sends McIntyre into the ringpost. Killswitch from Christian and he lands the frogsplash for the win.

WINNER: Christian in 12:45. Outstanding match that deserves a replay. My big complaint is that this should have been on Smackdown, which has been sorely lacking in the "good match" department lately (especially with a star of Christian's level involved). With Randy Orton on the shelf, Smackdown needs all of the veteran babyface star power it can get. My lesser gripe is that McIntyre has been presented as a mid-card chump (at best) since the Elimination Chamber in 2011.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2012, 03:03 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 5-31-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_61970.shtml) Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

1 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. STING -- TNA World Title match that turned into a non-title lumberjack match

Sting flipped Roode upside-down in the corner early on before raking the champ's eyes. Taz noted there's a strong line-up of stars ringside as lumberjacks for this match-up. Roode tried to come back on Sting with chops, but Sting no-sold before teasing the Scorpion Deathlock, but Roode reached the ropes for a break. Sting then punted Roode to the outside and the face lumberjacks struggled to get him back into the ring. Apparently they're not used to the lumberjack concept. They got it right on the second try. Roode then turned the tables by knocking Sting to the heel side, and Sting took blows to the kidneys from the heel jacks.

Back in the ring, Sting knocked Roode to the outside at the feet of the faces, who quickly rolled him back into the ring. Roode then rolled Sting back to the outside and confusion ensued. They're really stalling here. Back in the ring, Roode rocked Sting around the ring with right hand blows before delivering a knee drop to the face for a two count. Roode went for a rear waistlock as the crowd tried to rally behind Sting. Sting eventually broke free, but Roode cut him off and continued the attack before chucking Sting to the heel side. Cue the music for a break 11 minutes into Impact as Sting tried to fight off the heels.

After a lengthy commercial, Impact returned with the action still going on in the ring. Roode stomped away at Sting as the announcers noted Roode was on the attack throughout the commercial. Roode then dumped Sting to the outside and the jacks began arguing amongst themselves. Back in the ring, Roode lit up Sting with chops before Sting started to no-sell. Sting delivered a Stinger Splash, then Roode bailed to the outside to the security of the heel jacks. Sting then splashed all of them before rolling Roode back into the ring.

In the ring, Sting teased the Scorpion Deathlock, but Roode countered into a Crossface. The crowd and face jacks tried to rally behind Sting, who eventually reached the bottom rope for a break. Sting then came back with a Scorpion Death Drop and applied the Scorpion Deathlock. After a few moments, Roode tapped out, making Sting the TNA World champion apparently. However, the announcers acted like they didn't know if it was for the title. Roode was shown clutching his title belt as Hulk Hogan's music played.

On-stage: Hogan said 53-year-old Sting is Impact's number one man. Hogan then booked the main event at Slammiversary - Roode vs. Sting. Didn't they just wrestle? Hogan said to add some icing on the cake, the World Title will be on the line. Roode freaked out in the ring as he clutched his title belt.

WINNER: Sting via submission at 13:39. This really dragged and confusion reigned with the match billed as a title match that apparently wasn't. Overall, the match just didn't click, and now they're booking the same match ten days later on the PPV.

2 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. CHRIS SABIN -- X Division Title match

Quick action early on before Aries took control with flying offense. Suddenly, the men engaged in a pinfall exchange before Aries kicked Sabin to the outside. Aries then came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Sabin missed with a corner dropkick before Aries came off the top rope with a missile dropkick. Aries then missed with a corner dropkick and Sabin cleared him to the floor before landing a flying splash.

Back in the ring, Sabin executed a snap suplex after draping Aries across the middle rope. Sabin and Aries teased finishers before Aries suddenly rolled up Sabin for the pin and the win. Post-match, Sabin sold frustration as Aries sold intensity following his victory.

WINNER: Aries at 3:50 to retain the X Division Title. It's unfortunate there was no back-story to why this match took place since Sabin's first singles match post-Shelley's departure could have meant more. Early on, the match looked like a lot of flying around without purpose trying to pack a lot of action into a four-minute window.

3 -- TNA TV champion DEVON vs. JEFF HARDY -- TV Title match

As the match started, Tenay and Taz debated Joey Ryan's Gut Check chances. The two babyfaces felt each other out early on, then exchanged quick pins before coming to their feet for a standstill. Taz got excited about the MMA show coming up next as Devon cut off Hardy and took control of the action. Tenay then plugged comments from James Storm after this match. Suddenly, Hardy came off the top rope with a Whisper in the Wind for a two count. Devon came back with a flying neckbreaker out of the corner after cutting off Hardy, then both men sold on the mat.

At 3:00, the two men traded control before Hardy hit a Twist of Fate. After removing his shirt, Hardy climbed up top to hit the Swanton Bomb, but Robbie E. and T. hit the ring to attack Hardy. The ref called for the bell and Christy Hemme announced the match was thrown out. A week of hype and TNA makes a big production out of the voting for this finish? The faces then worked together to clear the heels from the ring. Rob Terry stood his ground on the outside as Robbie sold at his feet. The two sides squared off to conclude the segment.

WINNER: No Contest at 4:19. Why would anyone vote in a future poll when this is the result? Also, why didn't they cut backstage to show the writers and agents discussing the finish and arguing about whether it was a good booking decision to send the Robbies out to the ring to interrupt a match the viewers voted on?

4 -- TNA tag champion DANIELS vs. A.J. STYLES

The match started with a tie-up before Daniels slapped Styles across the face. Meanwhile, Taz talked about losing his cool with Joey Ryan and having the "character" and "gimmick," but not having the legs to go on the road. After a game of cat and mouse between Styles and Daniels, Daniels smashed Styles in the face with a right hand, bending Styles backward on the mat. Daniels then knocked Styles to the floor and Styles sold pain. Cue up the music and it's time for a break.

Back from break, Daniels was working over Styles as Tenay noted Impact is live throughout the summer. Daniels executed a springboard moonsault before going back to work with a mat-based submission. Styles suddenly came back with corner offense before dropping Daniels with a roundhouse kick. After both men sold on the mat, Styles fired up with strikes and elbows and forearms before putting Daniels in the Torture Rack into a pin attempt for a two count.

The match moved to the ring apron, where Styles nailed a springboard forearm strike. The two men countered each other before Styles set up Daniels for the Clash, but Kaz hit the ring apron to distract Styles. Daniels tried to roll up Styles, but Styles kicked out. Styles came back with a reverse DDT for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Styles at 10:33. Your typical Styles-Daniels match, which was used to set up the post-match...

Post-match: Kaz attacked Styles and took out ref Earl Hebner in the process. Kaz and Daniels beat up Styles for a while before Kurt Angle's music telegraphed his arrival to take out the heels. Angle made Kaz tap with the Anklelock, but Daniels snuck up behind Angle with a low blow. The heels followed with high/low on Angle. Kaz then tied up Angle in the ropes with a wire before Daniels took out Styles with a belt shot to the head. Kaz couldn't secure Angle's right arm, so Daniels KO'ed Angle with a belt shot.

Daniels then took a mic to address matters. He said they have shown the crowd pictures and videos, but they still don't believe them. Daniels said they have proof of the affair between Styles and Dixie. Daniels rolled a phone conversation between Styles and Dixie on meeting up this weekend. It sounds like they were planning a surprise birthday party for Dixie's husband. Dixie Carter suddenly stormed the announce position and demanded someone turn off the audio. She told the guys in the truck to push a button. The video cut to Spike graphics as Dixie's voice continued to be heard telling someone that he's finished before the show faded out to UFC programming.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 03 2012, 03:04 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-1-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62013.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results and segments.

- Sheamus opened up the show. Otunga demanded an apology from him. Del Rio sided with Otunga and was given the choice of Superstar to wrestle Sheamus for his title later on. Brogue Kick to Otunga ended that.

1 – SIN CARA vs. HEATH SLATER

Cara was announced as an “international sensation” by Garcia. No trampoline entrance, but the blue lighting for the match was in full effect. Heath Slater was his opponent. Slater went on offense immediately. Twenty seconds in, Michael Cole claimed Cara looked “better than ever” after getting in one kick. Low expectations, I guess. Cara got the advantage on the outside of the ring, but Slater kicked Cara once they were back in. Cara broke out of a rest-hold and connected on kicks. Springboard back elbow by Cara. Springboard cross-body, but no cover. Headscisssors into a single-arm take-down for the win by Cara.

WINNER: Cara, at 2:24. The return of Cara raises the amount of athleticism on the show and, depending how he’s pushed, could help make up for the loss of Randy Orton on the face side.

2 – EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

Jackson was already in the ring. No mic work from Sandow on his way to the ring, but he did have a look of disgust on his face once the bell rang. He asked for a mic and claimed to once again be standing in front of an ignoramus, so he refused to participate in the charade. He got as far as the apron before Jackson pulled him back in. Jackson leveled a corner attack on Sandow, but Sandow avoided the Torture Rack. Knees to the face, then a side Russian leg sweep from Sandow. Elbowdrop got two. Jackson fired back with good-looking forearms to the face. However, Sandow hit his neck-breaker soon after for the victory.

WINNER: Sandow, at 1:37. A win allowing Sandow to continue to climb the ranks, and it can’t speak well for Jackson to lose so quickly.

3 – RYAN SHELTON & CHRIS LYONS vs. RYBACK – HANDICAP MATCH

The duo were billed from Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They did some sub-par mic work which allowed the announcers to laugh at them. They chanted “Roll Tide Roll” to get under the skin of the fans in Louisiana. Ryback picked one up in a bodyslam and kicked the other. Powerslam, then a powerbomb. He picked Shelton up for a powerbomb again, but first, ran him into Lyons. Clothesline took Lyons out of his boots, then a uranage to Shelton. He put both men up for his finisher and connected.

WINNER: Ryback, at 2:00. The jobbers certainly aren’t impressive, but they help make Ryback look good, and that’s what matters at this point.

4 – DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. SHEAMUS

Headlock take-over by Sheamus as Cole explained what happened with Ziggler and Jack Swagger on Raw this past week. The announcers noted a more serious side of Ziggler tonight with little show-boating. Since that’s the only personality trait WWE has focused on, they need to give Ziggler something else to make his character more three-dimensional if they want to give him a run as a serious heel. Ziggler kicked Sheamus in the head, but Sheamus grabbed him by the hair and tossed him out of the ring. They went to break 2:39 into the match.

Back at about 5:45 of the match. Sheamus with a hard knee-lift to Ziggler in the corner. Ziggler struggled to get free from Sheamus, holding the apron skirt and finally pulled himself out of the ring. Ziggler took over when Sheamus tried to go out after him. He dropkicked Sheamus off the apron and Sheamus bumped into the announce table on his way down. He got back into the ring at a count of seven. Ziggler worked a rear chinlock and did a little showing off by doing a headstand with Sheamus in the hold. Sheamus picked Ziggler up, putting him on his shoulders, but Ziggler got off and gave Sheamus an awkward DDT. High elbowdrop, but only a one-count at 9:29. More mat-work from Ziggler as Vickie screamed “finish him!” from ringside. The sleeper was avoided and Sheamus managed to catch Ziggler on the apron and pummel him with forearms to the chest. Suplex back in for two at 10:32. Back-breaker from Sheamus for another two-count. Sheamus went to the top rope, but Ziggler threw himself into the ropes to crotch Sheamus. Ziggler climbed up and gave Sheamus an X-Factor off the top. Impressive. Ziggler was shrugged off on a Zig Zag attempt and Sheamus hit his White Noise finish. But he wasn’t done, as he beat his chest in the corner, chanting “Brogue” and waiting for Ziggler to get on his feet. Out of nowhere, Swagger climbed up onto the apron. Sheamus knocked him off, then when Swagger got back on, Ziggler was shoved into him. He then walked into a Brogue Kick for the Sheamus win.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 13:08. Not always smooth, but still a good match.

5 – TITUS O’NEIL & DARREN YOUNG vs. SANTINO MARELLA & ZACK RYDER

O’Neil and Young were already in the ring, but they did an inset interview where they stumbled upon the tag-team name of Prime Time Players. Young took Marella down with a back elbow, then an elbowdrop. Tag to O’Neil, who front suplexed Young onto Marella. European uppercut by O’Neil. Santino got a surprise roll-up out of the corner for the three-count.

WINNERS: Marella and Ryder, at 1:17. I believe the roll-up was about the only bit of offense the faces got. This evens the match-up, as O’Neil and Young had beaten Marella and Ryder previously.

- After the match, Big Show attacks Santino and Ryder, pretty much destroying the two.

6 – CODY RHODES vs. TYSON KIDD

Kidd was already in the ring. Rhodes side-stepped a kick and hurled Kidd chest-first into the corner. Front-first suplex by Rhodes for a one-count. Kidd used the ring ropes to take Rhodes down with a wrist-lock. He couldn’t hook in the Sharpshooter and Rhodes hit the Cross Rhodes for the three-count.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 1:19. A win to build Rhodes back up, presumably for a shot at Christian’s IC Title.

7 – C.M. PUNK vs. KANE – WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

Kane rag-dolled Punk into the corner and hammered away with right hands. Kane was low-bridged by Punk, who then dropkicked Kane through the ropes. He came off the top with a double axe-handle to the skull. Back in the ring, an uppercut by Kane put Punk on his back. Punk got Kane down and kicked at him to make sure he stayed down. Punk wrapped Kane’s arm around the ring-post in an effort to neutralize Kane’s finisher. Elbow strikes followed that. Punk had to back out of the corner or risk a disqualification as the referee reached the count of four, and Kane took advantage. Punk ended up getting dumped over the top, which surprised him. They took a break 4:39 into the match.

Back at the 8:53 mark of the match. Punk had Kane on his knees, trying to turn him over, unsuccessfully, only to decide more forearms to the back would have to suffice. Punk was knocked off the ropes by Kane and sent to ringside. A.J. came to the ring, concerned about Punk. Kane took the punishment to Punk outside the ring, then back in the ring, barely got a two-count. Punk walked into a choke at 11:36. Instead of finding himself on the receiving end of a chokeslam, he DDT’d Kane out of mid-air. Running knee to the face by Punk, then another one. Bulldog blocked and Punk missed a kick. Reverse DDT for two. Punk dove into Kane’s arms, but snuck out the back and felled Kane with a kick to the head. Cover for two at 12:49. Big boot by Kane for two. Irish whip then a clothesline in the corner by Kane. Punk gota boot up on a charge and bulldogged Kane. Punk lifted Kane for the GTS, but collapsed under the weight of the challenger. Low dropkick by Kane for a near-fall. Kane went to the top, but Punk kicked him on Kane’s way down. Punk went to the top and A.J. got on the apron. She was pointing frantically as Daniel Bryan ran to the ring. Cross-body off the top onto Bryan. He took Kane down again and hit the elbowdrop off the top for a near-fall. Springboard by Punk, right into an uppercut from Kane. Chokeslam attempt, but Bryan came off the top with a dropkick, catching each man with a foot.

WINNER: Double disqualification, at 16:08.

Bryan attacked Punk with kicks, but Punk exploded out of a corner with a clothesline. Bryan went up into the GTS, but Kane grabbed both men by the throat and hit a double chokeslam. As Kane’s music played, the theme of John Laurinaitis interrupted. He drove himself out on his scooter and declared a Triple Threat match for No Way Out. Why can’t his Raw appearances be that quick and to the point? A.J. knelt in the ring as Bryan and Punk both recovered from the attack. The show ended there.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 05 2012, 01:25 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-4-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_62077.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results.

1 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Lawler used the opening minutes of the match to give Cole pointers for his match against Cena later tonight. Sheamus dominated early on before Ziggler pulled down the top rope, causing Sheamus to fall to the floor. Sheamus then yanked Ziggler out of the ring to the floor. The two men traded control on the outside before coming to a standstill. Vickie screamed in Sheamus's face, allowing Ziggler to catch Sheamus by surprise with a running dropkick. They cut to break with Ziggler in control.

Back from break, Ziggler was wearing down Sheamus in the ring. Ziggler fought off a comeback attempt before continuing to target Sheamus's left arm and shoulder. Sheamus then went for a Polish Hammer that missed Ziggler, who sold it too early. Sheamus followed with a powerslam for a two count. Ziggler came back with a Fameasser and both men sold on the mat. Ziggler then came to his feet and climbed up top, but Sheamus cut him off. The two men traded control before Ziggler landed a second-rope Fameasser for a two count.

The two men reset at 8:30 with Sheamus blocking a sleeperhold attempt and nailing White Noise. Sheamus then set himself up in the corner and delivered the Brogue Kick square in the face. Sheamus with the cover for the win. After the decision, Vickie leaned on the apron and sold frustration over another loss for one of her clients.

WINNER: Sheamus at 9:08. Good showcase for Ziggler to keep him in the mix with top players while WWE figures out where to slot him long-term. Also, a nice win for Sheamus before Del Rio delivered a much-needed attack to look like a credible threat to the World Title. (**)

2 -- SIN CARA vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Once the bell sounded, the mood lighting turned on as Cole recapped the history of Sin Cara vs. Fake Sin Cara (Hunico) going back to Smackdown last year. Sin Cara executed some high-flying offense to wow the crowd before Hunico took control after some action on the outside. Cara then came back with a dropkick off the ring apron before executing a springboard huracanrana. An armdrag followed, then a handspring back elbow smash. Sin Cara cleared Camacho off the ring apron before executing his spinning bottle-opener into a faceplant for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 2:32. It just looked like a bunch of moves strung together at times. The crowd popped for a few moves, but there wasn't a sense that Cara is on his way to being a big player when WWE is desperate for top stars.

3 -- RYBACK vs. STAN STANSKY & ARTHUR ROSENBERG -- handicap match

Ryback started with some power offense before knocking them into each other like bowling pins. Ryback followed with a jackhammer, prompting light Goldberg chants. Cole called this embarrassing. Ryback followed with a big corner splash into a double clothesline. He said it's over. Ryback scooped up Rosenberg, then Stansky to deliver a double marching Samoan Drop for the pin and the win. WWE replayed the high points as Ryback watched in the ring. Back in the ring, Ryback demanded to be fed more.

WINNER: Ryback at 1:55.

4 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. KANE -- non-title match -- there must be a winner

Kane took control of the action and Punk sold repeated offense from Kane. Punk then knocked Kane to the outside and delivered a suicide dive. They cut to a shot of Bryan watching intently. Punk followed with a splash from the top rope to the outside. Back in the ring, Punk landed a top-rope cross-body, but Kane kicked out of a pin attempt and took control moments later. Coincidentally during a Punk match, WWE flashed a graphic for this week's international Raw tour after Punk talked about having been home for a total of 48 hours the last month in interviews over the weekend. Meanwhile, Cole and Lawler announced that Vince McMahon will kick off next week's three-hour Raw. Kane tossed Punk clear over the top rope to the outside, which led to a break five minutes in.

Back live, Cole was trying to convince Daniel Bryan to help him as Punk tried to make a comeback on Kane in the ring. A graphic flashed on the screen showing McMahon and Laurinaitis on Raw next week as Kane continued to work over Punk. Kane then went up top, and Punk dropped him with a running knee to the chin. Punk followed with another corner knee into a bulldog for a two count. Punk then went to the ring apron for a springboard clothesline that resulted in a two count.

Punk called for the end and tried the GTS, but Kane slipped out and dropped him with a big boot to the face. Kane then wanted the chokeslam, but Punk ducked underneath and nailed a neckbreaker for a two count only. The match moved up top and Punk knocked Kane to the mat before setting up for and connecting with a Macho Man elbow drop for another nearfall. Ringside, Bryan stroked his beard and slowly nodded his head, enjoying watching the two men tear each other apart.

The match moved back to the outside, where Punk landed forearm strikes. Kane then flung Punk into the barricade right next to Bryan. Punk slowly came back to his feet, then Bryan assaulted Punk from behind as the ref controlled Kane in the ring. Kane flung Punk back into the ring, where he went for the chokeslam, but Punk countered with a big kick to the head. Suddenly, A.J. came running down to ringside pointing to Bryan as causing interference. Bryan demanded A.J. get down. Suddenly, Punk came flying through the ropes with a suicide dive to Bryan.

Punk returned to the ring, but walked right into a chokeslam from Kane. Kane made the cover and it was good for the win. Cole noted if Kane does that in two weeks at No Way Out, he will be new WWE champion.

WINNER: Kane at 13:40. Solid TV match with some good nearfalls and decent story advancement ahead of the three-way title match. (**1/2)

5 -- WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS -- non-title match

The match was joined in-progress with Kofi sporting taped ribs and Truth sporting a taped-up shoulder from Big Show's attack last week. Reks wildly over-sold for Truth's offense before Hawkins attacked Truth from behind to allow the heels to take control of the match. Kofi and Curt then took tags, and Kofi delivered trademark offense while selling the ribs. The action broke down as Cole freaked out being told his match against Cena is next. Kofi then smashed Hawkins with Trouble in Paradise for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Kofi & Truth at 3:59 of what was shown.

6 -- JOHN CENA vs. TENSAI (w/Sakamoto)

Tensai dismantled Cena early on as Cole stood up at the announce table and cheered on Tensai. Cena then made a comeback with a big clothesline taking Tensai over the top rope to the floor. Cena tried to inflict offense ringside, but Sakamoto attacked Cena from behind. Cena sold ringside as they cut to break with Cole shouting that Cena is going down tonight.

Back live, Cole was still cheerleading Tensai, who continued to work over Cena. Tensai missed with a corner attack, but came back with a single arm DDT as Cole stood up ringside pacing back and forth in his stance. Cole, obviously biased, said he thinks Cena should just lose so he can worry about Big Show at No Way Out.

The action moved to ringside, where Tensai bounced Cena's head off the announce table. Cole then slapped Cena, prompting Lawler to stand up and shove Cole down into his seat. Cena tried to re-enter the ring, but Tensai knocked him down to the floor again. Cole demanded Tensai take out Cena, then Cole trash-talked Cena as he sold on the floor.

Cena made it back into the ring before a ten count, then Tensai executed a suplex for a two count. Cole shouted at the ref to count faster, then Tensai went for a big running splash, but Cena moved. Cena then made his standard comeback as Cole sat with head in his hand. Cena delivered the Shuffle, then wanted the AA, and connected. Cena with the cover for the win as Cole sat dejected in his chair.

WINNER: Cena at 9:04.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. MICHAEL COLE -- No DQ match

Cena whaled on Cole for 9 minutes. 'nuff said.

WINNER: Cena at 9:05. The live crowd ate up this virtual replay of Cena vs. Laurinaitis at Over the Limit, just with Cena scoring the pin after horsing around for most of the match. Also of note, Cole being over-the-top this week and the heavy emphasis on Jim Ross seemed like a set-up for Vince McMahon to change things up next week. But, it could also be a red herring, or simply a self-contained storyline for Cole to get his comeuppance and make Raw viewers "feel good" at the end of the show after the poor ratings last week.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 02:45 am
ROH TV Results: 6-2-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/ringofhonor/article_62114.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - MIKE MONDO vs. ADAM COLE

Kelly said they didn’t know what was in store for ROH with Steen as champion. O’Reilly was out to scout Cole. He said he had an emergency to attend to, which is why he wasn’t in Richards’s corner in Toronto. Cole fired up on Mondo and wiped him out with a dive through the ropes. O’Reilly said Cole was one-dimensional. O’Reilly said Cole and lost to him and Elgin. O’Reilly talked about facing Cole at the “Best in the World” iPPV in a Hybrid Fighting Rules match, which can only end by knockout or submission. Mondo fired back inside the ring and went to work on Cole’s arm in the corner. Mondo tied up Cole’s hand between the turnbuckle. Mondo put the boots to Cole before he finally managed to free his arm. Mondo drove Cole head-first into the mat several times, but couldn’t get the pin.

Cole nailed Mondo with a kick from his back. He got to his feet and hit a series of blows on Mondo. Cole aggressively attacked Mondo in the corner and nailed him with several punches. They ended up on the outside and Mondo missed a spear and went crashing into the guardrail. Cole hit a cross-body off the top and Mondo kicked out. McGuinness said perhaps Cole didn’t get his usual elevation after tweaking his knee earlier in the match, which allowed Mondo to kick out. Cole countered Mondo and got a back slide pin for the win.

Winner: Adam Cole – Not much to the match, but the segment did a good job of setting up the O’Reilly-Cole match at “Best in the World.” O’Reilly talked a lot of trash on commentary and did a good job of portraying himself as a heel, although he needs to work on his inflection, which was flat a lot of the time.

2 - - TOMASSO CIAMPA (w/Embassy Ltd.) vs. NICK WESTGATE

Ciampa pounded on Westgate and nailed him with a running kick. Ciampa screamed that he wants Lethal. Westgate caught Ciampa by surprise with a dropkick, but Ciampa nailed with a pop-up knee strike. Ciampa hit several elbows and knees on the mat and the ref called for the bell.

Winner: Tomasso Ciampa – This was a good squash for Ciampa. I still can’t believe he lost his undefeated streak to Jay Lethal, but I digress. Ciampa’s post-match attack on Westgate was well-done.

3 - - CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRICK ALEXANDER vs. ANX (Rhett Titus & Kenny King)

The announcers said Coleman and Alexander could gain some momentum with a win here after picking up a couple of fluke wins over established tag teams recently. King and Coleman went for spinning kicks at the same time and came to a stalemate. Titus tagged in, but Coleman cut him off and tagged in Alexander. Alexander caught Titus with a dropkick. King ran into the ring, but Alexander nailed him with a kick and took out Titus with a moonsault to the outside. Alexander then wiped out ANX with a huge flip dive to the outside and the fans popped big. Coleman sent Titus outside moments later and went for a dive, but King cut him off. Titus went to work on Coleman inside the ring. The fans tried to rally behind Coleman as they went to commercial break.

They came back from break with ANX still in control of Coleman. They said Coleman had nearly tagged out during the break, but was unable to. They didn’t show a replay of that footage for some reason. Kelly said Steen is standing by and would speak after this match and Cornette would name his challenger. McGuinness talked about the difficult position Steen is in now that he’s the champion and everyone wants to knock him off the top spot. Coleman hit a DDT on King and tagged in Alexander, who ran wild on ANX. Coleman and Alexander isolated Titus, but King ran in. They took him out with a double dropkick and hit a tandem move on Titus, but King broke up the pin. King caught Alexander going for a springboard and hit a spinebuster. Coleman took out King, but Titus wiped him out with a discus lariat. King and Titus took out Alexander and Coleman with dueling kicks for a double nearfall.

Titus set up Coleman for the one night stand, but Coleman broke it up. After a rapid-fire exchange, Coleman & Alexander botched a tandem move and ANX hit the one night stand on Alexander for the win.

Winners: Kenny King & Rhett Titus – This was a good television match. Once again, Coleman and Alexander brought some excitement to their match and got the crowd behind them, but fell short to ANX. Kelly and McGuinness did a lot of talking about the upcoming segment with Cornette and Steen during the match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 02:49 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-6-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_62172.shtml)

1 - JEY USO vs. TYLER REKS

For some reason, Jimmy Uso did the war dance, but then disappeared for the whole match. Uso uses his speed to get early control, but Reks power puts him in charge. Reks goes into the ringpost and Uso lands sustained offense. Reks goes to the top and gets a side kick to the stomach for it. He crotches Uso up top, takes him off the ropes, and hits the Burning Hammer for the win.

WINNER: Tyler Reks in 5:00. Tyler Reks has a good look and agility for his size, but I think he needs to add some unique moves to stand out from a crowded pack.

2 - PERCY WATSON vs. JTG

JTG slows the match down with a chinlock out of the gate. Watson gets some fire and shows off his strength and agility, then JTG wails on Watson in the corner like a boxer. Watson comes back and looks a little cocky. JTG sends Watson out of the ring hard and shows off in the ropes. JTG with a new move, a jumping neckbreaker of sorts. JTG to the top rope, but Watson counters with a jumping knee lift to the face. Watson with the dropkicks and flying clotheslines, then an armdrag to set up the Highsman. JTG tries to make a comeback, but eats the Percycution for the loss.

WINNER: Percy Watson in 6:15. Right before the end of the match, the audience started booing Watson, and then took up a "JTG!" chant. This is why pre-match promos are so important, as the crowd had no idea who to cheer and who to boo, and were relying on a badly outdated understanding of JTG's character. JTG's in-ring continues to improve.

3 - TAMINA SNUKA vs. NATALYA

Natalya is sporting a new black lace over white outfit with a cape. Seeing it on TV, is looks even more like something Maryse would wear than it did live. She also got a very nice reception from the crowd.

Neither Diva can overpower the other. Lots of back-and-forth action here, and Natalya gets an opportunity to get a bit more fierce. She covers Snuka by sitting on her. Snuka's straps on her outfit get broken, and Striker makes a Jerry Lawler reference about "straps down." Natalya with a suplex - she wanted a delayed vertical suplex, but Snuka's height made it a bit unstable. Snuka is struggling to get traction. She finally gets her feet under her, and takes it to Natalya. She plants Natalya with a body slam and goes to the top, but Natalya rolls away before she leaps. Natalya wants the Sharpshooter, but Snuka kicks her out of the ring. Samoan Drop followed by the Superfly Splash for the win.

WINNER: Tamina Snuka in 6:30. They never really felt like they came out of second gear, and the crowd didn't know who to cheer or boo. Snuka has lacked TV time, and Natalya's been made out to be an incompetent chump in what little TV time she's received. I wonder if Natalya's new look indicates any changes going forwards for her character.

4. TYSON KIDD & JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HEATH SLATER & JOHNNY CURTIS - Tag Team match

Slater and Kidd start; Kidd and Gabriel work together as a team, and Gabriel tries ripping Slater's arm off. Slater gets Gabriel in the corner and gets Curtis in. Kidd's slick springboard reverse subset flip gets two. Curtis and Kidd with some technical wrestling. Kidd manages to outwit Slater and Curtis at the same time. Kidd and Gabriel hit high-flying moves from the ropes to Slater and Curtis at ringside to lead into the break.

Curtis provides a distraction, allowing Slater to hit a snap powerslam to Kidd on the top turnbuckle. Kidd is isolated for a stretch. Kidd wants a tag badly, but Slater clears Gabriel from the apron, and he takes hard offense to Kidd. Slater goes nuts with frustration. Kidd dodges a knee drop from Slater, then a top-rope leg drop from Curtis and is finally able to tag Gabriel. Gabriel with piles of speed offense on Curtis. Slater breaks up the pin after a jumping Tornado DDT. Gabriel dodges a corner charge, Kidd tags in, and Gabriel sets up Curtis for a Hart Attack with a blockbuster instead of a clothesline from Kidd.

WINNERS: Kidd & Gabriel in 10:00. This was a great match live, and an excellent match with the benefits of commentary and good camera angles. I would love to see a lot more of this pairing... both teams, really.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 02:51 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-7-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62184.shtml) Condesned here to in-ring results only so no stupid AJ/Dixie affair stuff mentioned here.

1 -- CRIMSON vs. X Division AUSTIN ARIES -- non-title match

Tenay announced the four-way Knockouts #1 contender match will feature Tara, Mickie James, Velvet Sky, and Miss Tessmacher. Aries and Crimson went back and forth during the first two minutes before Aries snapped off a standing head scissors into a corner dropkick. Aries wanted a brainbuster, but Crimson tossed Aries to the outside. Aries then turned the tables with a suicide dive, prompting Tenay to claim Crimson's streak is in jeopardy. Suddenly, Samoa Joe came down to ringside as the referee occupied himself with a fly in the ring. Joe blasted Aries, then rolled him into the ring, where Crimson took advantage scoring a pinfall for the win.

Post-match: Crimson acted so proud of himself for the victory. He then claimed to have single-handedly beaten Austin Aries and said no one here in TNA can beat him. Crimson said he's been undefeated a lot longer than that "Goldberg guy." His music finally stopped and Crimson vowed to prove himself again at Slammiversary by issuing an open challenge. Tenay wondered aloud who will step up and challenge him.

WINNER: Crimson at 3:27.

2 -- VELVET SKY vs. MISS TESSMACHER vs. TARA vs. MICKIE JAMES -- #1 contender match to Knockouts Title

Of note is Brooke Tessmacher is officially back to Miss Tessmacher, due to Brooke Hogan joining the promotion. A few moments into the match, they cut to a shot of Gail Kim walking out on-stage for a closer look. As the action continued, TNA cut to break.

Back from break four minutes later, Gail was on commentary and the action was still ongoing in the ring. The action eventually came down to Velvet and Mickie James to sell a brewing rivalry over who will get attention in the Knockouts division. Tessmacher then snuck in a quick roll-up to score the win. On-stage, Gail stood up and applauded Tessmacher getting the win.

WINNER: Tessmacher at 10:30 to become #1 contender to the Knockouts Title.

3 -- TV champion DEVON (w/Garett Bischoff) vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) -- TNA TV Title match

A few moments in, Madison Rayne walked out on-stage and made herself look nice while watching the match. The announcers acted like Rayne was interested in Robbie to provide a misdirection to the audience. Meanwhile, Robbie dominated the proceedings as the crowd tried to rally behind Devon. Devon made his comeback with standard offense before Terry tripped him from outside the ring.

After Terry's interference, Garett and Terry got into it ringside before Devon and Robbie played a game of whether they could hold a small package for a world record. Eventually, Garett reversed the momentum for Devon behind the ref's back in a comedy spot to help Devon score the pin on Robbie. After the match, the heels tried to get at Devon and Garett, but they cleared the heels from the ring before standing tall.

WINNER: Devon at 2:50 to retain the TV Title. Quite possibly the most blatant "expose the business" moment of the year with that small package spot. They even replayed it as the Direct Impact of the Night.

4 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE & TNA tag champions DANIELS & KAZARIAN vs. STING & A.J. STYLES & KURT ANGLE -- six-man tag match

Sting and Angle quickly turned the tables and applied their submission finishers on Kaz and Daniels. This put a fright in Roode, who bailed from the ring. Kaz and Daniels escaped to the floor, then Roode tried to act like a leader organizing the heels and calling for a time-out.

Back live, the heels were working over Sting as the announcers discussed Styles not showing up for the match tonight following the opening segment. Taz recapped the opening segment and said perhaps it's something that should not be on TV, suggesting the laundry is too dirty as opposed to it being a terrible segment. Tenay and Taz then debated whether A.J. is the pro they thought he is. In the ring, Sting tried to make a comeback with a desperation Stinger Splash, but Roode moved and Sting ate the buckle. Chaos prevented a tag situation, then all of the heels hit the ring to gang up on Sting. The ref lost control of the action, but allowed all three heels to remain in the ring.

Suddenly, A.J. Styles hopped the guardrail and hit the ring to go after the heels. Angle then entered the ring without a legal tag and cleaned house as the ref let it all go. Angle suplexed Kaz over the top rope to the floor, then exited the ring. Back in the ring, Styles dropped Daniels with a Pele Kick. Styles and Sting were left in the ring, then Styles flip-dive splashed the heels on the floor. Back in the ring, Sting dropped Roode on the mat and slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock. Roode held on for a few moments before tapping out. The announcers suggested this could be the scene at Slammiversary, which would lead to a new World champ.

Post-match: After a replay of the finish, Sting grabbed the TNA Title belt and held it up in the air as Roode flipped out. Tenay gave the final hard sell for Slammiversary, promising an answer to whether there will be a new Hvt. champion Sunday night.

WINNERS: Team Sting via submission at 10:13.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 02:52 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-7-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_62214.shtml)

1 - YOSHI TATSU vs. HUNICO

To start the match, Tatsu wants a quick trio of leverage pins, but none stick. Hunico gets some relief from the ropes. Tatsu continues the attack, but Hunico puts him into a turnbuckle and starts beating down Tatsu.

Tatsu is fighting out of hold and tries a crucifix pin back from break, but Hunico retains control of the match. Tatsu with a desperation suplex to get separation, then a big karate chop off the top rope for one. Chono Boot for a nearfall. Hard Shining Wizard for another nearfall. Hunico gets caught on the top rope, which allows Tatsu to land a huracarana from the top for a nearfall. Hunico with a butterfly suplex into a powerbomb for a nearfall, and the crowd goes nuts for the kick-out.

Tatsu with a rough sit-out powerslam. Tatsu gets the roundhouse to the head, but Camacho puts Hunico's boot on the rope. Tatsu misses the spinning heel kick from the top, and Hunico puts him down with a Samoan Drop and follows up with a Swanton Bomb for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 9:20. This was an enjoyable match to watch live. I've always liked Hunico's work as well as Tatsu's. The crowd was really behind Tatsu, too. Hunico and Tatsu are great at getting a crowd warmed up, though I do wish that they could get more quality time.

2 - ALEX RILEY vs. JINDER MAHAL

Big "Riley" chant before the lock-up, which Mahal wins handily. Riley finally gets some traction using his speed, but Mahal crotches Riley four punches into Ten Punches in the corner, then he goes back to the attack. Riley kicks his way out of a corner, but eats a big boot to lose his steam again. Riley makes his full-blown comeback. Riley with a flying clothesline from the top for two. He looks for the Final Score, but Mahal grabs the ropes. Mahal counters with a jumping knee to the face and then locks in the Camel Clutch for the submission victory.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 5:00. Good work from both, and Riley knows how to involve the crowd. Mahal's character needs more than "foreigner" and his match formula needs some variety to it from match to match.

3 - ZACK RYDER vs. JACK SWAGGER

Ryder foolishly offers to lock up with the amateur wrestling champ, and Swagger shows him why it was a mistake. Swagger continues to use technical acumen to dominate, then Ryder with a pair of armdrags to turn it around. Swagger's size and power allows him to run Ryder down. Swagger has his trademark bloody mouth. Ryder comes back, but Swagger rolls out of the ring to avoid the Broski Boot. Ryder clears him from the ring and a springboard placha sends it to break.

Swagger fights out of an armbar coming out of the break. Swagger jumps up to meet Ryder up top and counters with a belly-to-belly. Ryder tries to build steam, but Swagger ducks under a running cross-body and Ryder bounces hard off the ropes. Swagger catches Ryder off the ropes, but Ryder transitions into a DDT and the ref starts a double count. Ryder controls after the reset. Broski Boot pulls a nearfall. Ryder escapes a gutwrench powerbomb, tries the Rough Ryder, but Swagger catches him and turns it into a powerbomb for the win.

WINNER: Jack Swagger in 12:15. Good match to re-establish Swagger and give fan-favorite Ryder some ring time. Ryder looked good for hanging in and taking a long beating. Swagger really needs to do something to reform his image, though, since he's had so many stop-and-start pushes, and he hasn't had any mic time to give his new hairdo any personality. Hey, isn't Zack Ryder owed a U.S. Championship re-match?
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 02:53 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-8-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62238.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. THE GREAT KHALI

The bell rang as soon as they returned from break. Hard chop to the head greeted Del Rio after he came off the ropes. Hard chop to the chest by Khali in the corner Big boot attempt by Khali missed and Del Rio kicked away at the leg. After working the big limb of Khali, Del Rio came off the second rope, only to be cut down with a chop to the chest. Khali signaled for the tree slam, but Rodriguez got on the apron. That distraction led to Del Rio bringing the arm down across his knee. Cross arm-breaker applied, and Khali tapped.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 3:23. Disappointing that Del Rio had to win via distraction; when was the last time Khali was relevant? Shouldn’t the challenger for the World Title be able to beat him cleanly?

2 – “FUNKASAURUS” BRODUS CLAY vs. DERRICK BATEMAN

Clay pounded away on Bateman in the corner, then tossed him through the ropes. Clay gave Bateman a running headbutt to the chest on the outside, then sent him over the barricade and into the ring announcer/timekeeper area. Back in the ring, Clay splashed Bateman in the corner and followed-up with an overhead suplex. Big splash finished Bateman.

WINNER: Clay, at 1:06. I guess Clay being more aggressive is the change that we’ll be seeing from Clay after the attack by Big Show. Something had to change, but I don’t know if this is enough.

3 – SIN CARA vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Mathews plugged Cara’s Facebook page. Like Bateman, “Whatever Happened To” Drew McIntyre got no entrance. McIntyre tried to draw first blood (not literally of course), but Cara used his unorthodox style (and many arm-drags!) to neutralize McIntyre. On the apron, Cara was sent up into the air and kicked in the gut, sending him to ringside. Back in the ring, Cara fought out of a rest-hold and McIntyre stomped Cara. Cara with a headscissors that sent McIntyre into the post. Handspring back elbow for two. McIntyre followed up with a big boot that Cara sold nicely. Couldn’t get the pin, though. Cara dove off the second rope into a side slam, but Cara countered. McIntyre readjusted his grip, but Cara again countered and hit his single-arm face-plant for the finish.

WINNER: Cara, at 3:16. Nice little match there. Saw a few unique moves from both men.

4 – TONY ANDRIOTIS & KEVIN MAHONEY vs. RYBACK – 2-ON-1 HANDICAP MATCH

Both jobbers were billed from Clemson, just to rile up the fans in the arena. The jobbers predicted they’d be the start of Ryback’s downfall. One of their last names sounds like a disease I wouldn’t want to catch. Cole did his own “mirror mirror on the wall” rhyme (as the jobbers did) where he cleverly rhymed “wall” with “wall.” One jobber was sent hard into the buckle, the other was given a fall-away slam right into the other. Ryback stacked them up in the corner and ran into them with a shoulder to the gut. He clotheslined one over the other, who was bent down behind him on his hands and knees. Hard powerbomb, then both were put on his back for his finisher and pinfall.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:44. As I’ve said before, Ryback’s squashes themselves are entertaining, but I love seeing the different jobbers they bring out too.

5 – CHRISTIAN vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER

Rhodes joined the announce team. He said he’s asking for his rematch at No Way Out. Leapfrog by Christian into a face-plant. Cody said his Fave Five is a list of hypocrites and Booker is number one (after Cole said Booker put Cody at the one spot in his Fave Five of the week). It was a combination of great delivery and a great line for Cody. The two men fought outside the ring as they went to break at 1:30 of the match.

They returned at about the 5:00 mark. Ziggler with a dropkick to the mid-section for a two-count. He torqued the neck and arm of Christian, then peppered him with punches and kicks. Monkey-flip into the corner by Ziggler, then he rammed Christian’s back shoulder-first. Flip kick by Christian. He made his comeback by grabbing Ziggler on a fameasser attempt and powerbombing him. Both m en were down at 7:30, but Christian bog up first. Springboard sunset flip, but Dolph fired back with a fameasser for two. Spear attempt countered by a dropkick by Ziggler for two. Christian shrugged off a Zig Zag and went to the top. He knocked Ziggler off when Dolph tried to meet him on the top, and finished him with a frogsplash.

WINNER: Christian, at 9:34. Fun match – I could watch these guys wrestle each other all day. Rhodes was fantastic on commentary.

6 – JIMMY USO vs. ANTONIO CESARO

Long came to ringside to watch his Laurinaitis-appointed new favorite wrestler. Uso with a kick to the gut of Cesaro, then a double chop to the chest and a diving headbutt. Quick cover for only one. Splash in the corner by Uso, but Cesaro grabbed his nose on a bodyslam attempt. He sent Jimmy into the air and caught him with a European Uppercut on the way down. His finisher was hit, and the pin was academic.

WINNER: Cesaro, at :58. Felt like this was a match that may have gotten cut down due to the show perhaps running long.

7 – SHEAMUS vs. KANE

A long lock-up led to a stalemate in the corner. Sheamus had his elbow taped but Cole said he refused medical attention after the incident with Del Rio on Raw. The two traded right hands and Sheamus was able to get a brief advantage. Kane followed it up with a corner clothesline and an uppercut. Kane ran into a back elbow and Sheamus attacked the knee. Kane grabbed the champ by the throat and knocked him to the apron. Sheamus tried to get back in, but Kane booted him to the floor. They went to break 2:36 into the match.

Back at 6:21 of the match. Kane continued his offensive onslaught. Side-slam for a two-count. Sheamus worked out of a rear chinlock with shoulders to the bread-basket. He got his boots up on a corner charge from Kane and pulled himself up to the top rope. Flying shoulder tackle found the mark, but he couldn’t capitalize. High knee-lift, then a running Irish Hammer from Sheamus. Lateral press, but only a one-count at 8:51. Both men looked winded at this point. Kane came down off the shoulders of Sheamus and got in his low dropkick. Sheamus turned things around with an Irish Curse back-breaker at 10:00 even. Forearms to the chest with Kane on the apron. Kane blocked a suplex back in and brought Sheamus down throat-first over the top rope. Kane climbed to the top rope, but Sheamus stopped him. He tried to suplex Kane off but Kane blocked it. Sheamus was headbutted off the top and Kane missed the flying clothesline. The announcers noted that Kane tweaked his knee, and Sheamus hit White Noise. Sheamus got a disturbed look in his eye as he called for the Brogue Kick. Kane caught the boot and went for the chokeslam. Sheamus snuck out and the men collided with a double clothesline. Ricardo Rodriguez and Alberto Del Rio ran down for the DQ. Only Rodriguez made it into the ring, and he was quickly halted by Sheamus.

WINNER: Sheamus, via disqualification, at 12:57.

Del Rio looked on from the apron and as Kane was about to take advantage, A.J. skipped to ringside. Kane was frozen, staring at A.J. That allowed Sheamus to come to and Brogue Kick Kane. Then he did the same to Rodriguez as Del Rio looked on from the aisle. Mathews got in one last plug for Vince McMahon appearing on Raw and the special start time before they faded out.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 01:07 pm
TNA Slammiversary PPV Results: 6-10-12 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_62289.shtml)

1 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. SAMOA JOE -- X Division Title match

Once the bell sounded, both men acted fired up to open the PPV before locking up and exchanging holds. The two men felt each other out before Joe slapped Aries across the face, then Aries came back with strikes that Joe no-sold. Aries then dropped Joe to the outside with a head scissors, but Joe destroyed Aries, who attempted a suicide dive. Joe played to an appreciative crowd before chopping Aries back in the ring. Awesome first two minutes. Joe followed with a big corner kick before washing Aries's face with his boot. Joe followed with a corner boot that missed Aries, but Aries sold like it connected.

Aries and Joe went back and forth countering each other's offense before resetting at 4:00. Another counter sequence saw Aries roll out of the way of an attempted elbow suicide dive before flying back into the ring to deliver a suicide dive to Joe back on the outside. "Aust-in Aries / Let's Go Joe" dueling chants picked up as the two men re-entered the ring with Aries in control. But, Joe countered a corner attack with a running sideslam for a close two count. Joe followed with knee lifts, then a sit-out powerbomb for a two count that he turned into a modified Boston Crab. Aries refused to tap, so Joe flowed into an STF mid-ring. Then, into a modified Rings of Saturn, which Aries countered into a quick roll-up for a two count.

The two men reset at 7:15 with Joe collecting himself while Aries sold in the corner. Joe followed up with rapid-fire headbutts, then wanted a top-rope superplex, but Aries headbutted Joe down to the mat. Aries then executed a top-rope 450 splash, but Joe kicked out of a pin in-time. The crowd popped for the nearfall as Aries sold shock. The two men re-engaged by trading bombs from their knees as the crowd picked up a dueling chant. Joe then avoided a discus clothesline and slapped on a sleeperhold. Joe then fell down to the mat with a rear-naked choke, which Aries countered into a bridge pin for a close two count.

Joe came back with a power throw out of the corner, then fired himself up. He wanted a top-rope Musclebuster, but Aries slipped out and landed elbow strikes into a sick crucifix throw. Aries followed with a running strike into a discus forearm smash that rocked Joe. Aries followed with a corner kick into the brainbuster center-ring. The crowd popped for Aries's feat of strength executing the brainbuster, then Aries made a cover for the pin and the win. Post-match: Taz said you won't find anything else more physical than that match in pro wrestling on PPV. They replayed high points from the match, then returned live to show Aries celebrating his victory as Joe sold the effects of the finish. Aries and Joe then came together center-ring and they fist-bumped as a show of respect. On the way, Aries said that's why he's the greatest.

WINNER: Aries at 11:48 to retain the X Division Title. Excellent, excellent opening match. Just great from start to finish with a hot crowd behind the action. Aries was able to continue his quest of successfully defeating big-man wrestlers and Joe got some of his mojo back working with the perfect opponent. A little longer and the match easily would have been four stars. (***1/2)

2 -- HERNANDEZ vs. KID KASH

Hernandez over-powered Kash early on before knocking him to the floor. Hernandez wanted to fly, but Kash walked away, as Taz equated Hernandez to Randy White of Cowboys fame. After dodging Hernandez's flying attack, Kash took control of the action back in the ring. Kash landed big chops to the chest to annoy Hernandez before executing some surprising high-flying offense on Hernandez that were borderline botches. Kash got cocky, though, and walked into a slingshot shoulder block from Hernandez.

Hernandez made a comeback with power offense before flying over the top rope with a missile splash. Hernandez then brought Kash back into the ring for the finish. After avoiding some desperation offense from Kash, Hernandez set up Kash center-ring to deliver a big top-rope splash. (TNA cut to a great camera shot over Hernandez's head as he landed the splash.) Hernandez then scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Hernandez at 5:52. The chemistry was hit or miss throughout, and there was no back-story for why this match occurred, but a fine return for Hernandez. (*1/2)

3 -- TV champion DEVON & GARETT BISCHOFF vs. ROBBIE E. & ROB TERRY
 
Robbie went after Garett early on, but Bischoff came back with some basic wrestling holds. Robbie then scampered over to his corner to tag in Terry. Bischoff ducked a clothesline, then tried some kicks and strikes, but Terry no-sold and shoved him away. Bischoff tried some offense, but Terry continued to fling him away. Suddenly, Madison Rayne emerged on-stage looking completely different. The heels then cornered Bischoff and worked him over as Devon waited for a tag. The crowd reacted when Devon broke up a pin attempt on Bischoff as Madison smiled on-stage.
 
Bischoff eventually escaped Robbie and made a hot tag to Devon, who entered the match fired-up for his team. Devon cleared Robbie before knocking Robbie off the apron. Eventually, the match broke down with all four men in the ring. Bischoff then took Terry out of the ring, leaving Devon and Robbie in the ring. Devon then hit a big shoulder tackle on Robbie for the pin and the win. Post-match, Devon and Bischoff did a dance number before celebrating in the ring.
 
WINNER: Devon & Robbie at 5:56. The crowd was into Devon, but not Bischoff. Okay tag match. (*1/4)

4 -- JEFF HARDY vs. MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM -- #1 contender match to TNA World Title
 
The match started on a random note with Hardy attacking Van Dam out of nowhere. Some three-way spots ensued, including Hardy running off Anderson's back as Anderson sold on the mat to land a corner leg smash on RVD. Next was a Tower of Doom tease, but Anderson broke it up by flinging RVD to the outside and super-plexing Hardy. Van Dam tried to follow with a Five-Star Frogsplash out of nowhere, but both men moved out of the way and RVD ate the mat.
 
After a reset, all three men started landing moves on each other almost in video-game fashion without any flow. Someone needed to take control of the match. Van Dam slowed things down momentarily by working on his opponents one-by-one before they set up a three-way pin spot with dual nearfalls. Anderson came up the aggressor following the nearfalls and cleared RVD from the ring before scoring a nearfall on Hardy. Anderson then took the action to the outside, so Hardy decided to come off the top rope with a big splash onto both opponents.
 
Hardy and RVD returned to the ring, where Hardy nailed Whisper in the Wind for a close two count. Hardy then hit Twist of Fate that appeared to cause some neck whiplash for RVD. Hardy wanted to end it with a top-rope Swanton Bomb, and he connected, but Anderson pulled the ref away from the pin count. Anderson then cleared Hardy from the ring, dropped RVD with the Mic Check, and pinned Van Dam for the win. Anderson gets a title shot against Roode-Sting on Impact in four days.
 
WINNER: Anderson at 11:24 to become #1 contender. Good finish after some hit or miss three-way action in the tired three-way match formula. Anderson scoring the win was surprising, but a match-up against Roode or Sting feels the freshest out of the three individuals in the match. (**3/4)
 
5 -- "COWBOY" JAMES STORM vs. CRIMSON -- Open Challenge
 
Crimson tried to run at Storm once he hit the ring, but Storm blocked his attack and cleared Crimson to the outside. Storm continued to fight in his long jacket before slapping Crimson across the chest. Crimson then blind-sided Storm, who turned his back for a moment. Crimson ripped off Storm's jacket and choked him with it as the crowd chanted, "Let's Go Cowboy(s)." Storm then made his comeback, fired up the crowd, warmed up for a Last Call superkick, and connected. Storm with the pin for the win. And, Crimson's "streak" is over. Post-match, Storm celebrated with a beer as he soaked in the moment returning from his brief absence.
 
WINNER: Storm at 2:10. Good return for Storm as he gets back in the title quest springboarding off this victory. (n/a)

6 -- Knockouts champion GAIL KIM vs. MISS TESSMACHER -- Knockouts Title match
 
Miss Tessmacher, introduced as hailing "from the great State of Texas," came out next to challenge for the Knockouts Title. KO champ Gail Kim then came out to make her latest title defense. Back-and-forth early on before Gail dropped Tessmacher hard on the ropes to begin a sustained attack. Gail then got cocky when she continued to cut off Tessmacher's comebacks, which ultimately led to her demise when Tessmacher suddenly rolled up Gail out of nowhere for a quick three count. Tessmacher sold the moment as her hand was raised, while Gail sold shock over the sudden loss. Ringside: Christy Hemme brought in Tessmacher for an instant reaction to the title win. She called her win "truly epic" and proclaimed, "God Bless Texas."
 
WINNER: Tessmacher at 7:01 to capture KO Title. As Tenay foreshadowed, the "homestate advantage" storyline played out to end Gail's lengthy title run.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 11 2012, 01:10 pm
Continued from previous post...

7 -- BULLY RAY vs. JOSEPH PARK -- Anything Goes Match
 
Park, still sporting glasses, wiped his forehead with a towel before slowly approaching Ray, who offered the first shot. Park then took off his glasses and re-approached Ray. Park swung and missed Ray, who easily ducked out of the way before asking Park if he's serious. Ray then slapped Park across the face before offering his chin again. Ray ducked two punches, then slapped Park across the top of his head.
 
Next, Ray offered to put his hands behind his back. Park took a loogie in the eye, then slaps to the face as Ray called him a coward. "Joseph, Joseph" chant from the crowd. Park then slapped Ray across the face to a big reaction after Ray missed with a corner attack. But, Park made TNA Babyface Mistake #1 turning to the hard camera to celebrate, prompting Ray to blind-side him. Park sold on the mat before Ray went on the attack to boos. The crowd then tried to get at Ray with a "New York sucks" chant, prompting Taz to wonder what happened to Southern hospitality. Ray retrieved a chair, but fell on the mat when Park kicked the ropes (because of the vibrations ). Park slowly picked up the chair, Ray begged off, Park turned his back, and Ray attacked him again.
 
Ray went on a sustained attack, including a chair shot across the back. On the outside, Ray teed off on Park with right hand strikes while he taunted the crowd. Back in the ring, Ray went for a butt bomb from the second rope, but Park avoided, then Hulked Up. Park fired off lefts and rights before Ray covered up. Park blew himself up, which Taz noted, before the two men kind of collided center-ring in a weird spot. Park then turned around and ate a boot to the face from Ray.
 
Ray turned his attention to a table underneath the ring, which Ray slid into the ring. Ray then pulled out a Kendo Stick and threatened ref Earl Hebner before setting up the table in the ring. A light "ECW" chant started up as Ray set up shop center-ring. Ray went for a Kendo Stick shot, but Park hit him in the gut with a lucky punch. Park then caned Ray across the head and kind of dove on top of Ray for a close two count. Park spit up drool before surveying the table in the ring. Park charged Ray, who elbowed Park in the face to knock him to the outside.
 
Park then rolled underneath the ring, disappearing from sight. Suddenly, Abyss emerged. They didn't show his face, and just focused on his trademark get-up from behind. Ray turned around, sold shock, and Abyss landed a chokeslam through the table. Abyss slid back underneath the ring, then Joseph Park re-emerged, selling that he did not know what was going on. Park then stumbled into the ring and covered a KO'ed Ray for the pin and the win. After the win, Park continued to sell shock as the announcers talked about how weird that was.
 
WINNER: Park/Abyss at 10:23. Well, that was...something. Ray was solid in his heel role walking the crowd through this odd match. But, the crowd didn't exactly play along with TNA trying to pull a fast one with the Abyss/Park switcheroo at the end.

8 -- TNA tag champions CHRISTOPHER DANIELS & KAZARIAN vs. KURT ANGLE & A.J. STYLES -- TNA Tag Title match
 
Daniels and Kaz cut off Styles once the bell sounded, then Styles engaged in a wrestling exchange with Kaz to clear him from the ring. The action then moved to the floor, where Styles nailed a high-flying move on Kaz. Angle then smashed Daniels on the outside, but it was out of camera view. Back in the ring, Styles tagged in Angle to a pop. Angle then went to work on the heels before tagging in Styles, who went back-and-forth with Kaz before Daniels provided a distraction. Kaz and Daniels then went to work on Styles as Angle paced on the ring apron.
 
Angle eventually tagged in at 8:00 and went nuts on Kaz and Daniels with suplexes and throws. Angle then set up for successive German Suplexes on Kaz, and used an assist from Styles to deliver a double third German on Kaz and Daniels. Angle then slapped on the Anklelock to Daniels, but Kaz broke it up. Styles and Kaz then tagged into the match, and Styles cleaned house. Angle then re-entered and all four men were involved at this point.
 
A series of sequences customary for a four-way match occurred before Styles and Daniels came together center-ring to trade headbutts and strikes. Daniels then landed an STO and wanted the BME, but Styles moved and Angle dropped Daniels with a German Suplex. Angle then went up top and landed a frogsplash on Kaz. He had the pin, but Daniels yanked the ref out of the ring. Styles then nailed Daniels on the outside with a springboard gainer splash. Back in the ring, Angle grappled Kaz and slapped on the Anklelock. Angle grapevined it, Kaz reached for the ropes, and reached again, but he had to tap out, giving Angle and Styles the title win. Ringside, Styles sold that he was stunned to have won as Angle kissed the mat to celebrate victory. They replayed big moments from the match before returning live to show the new tag champs getting their hands raised in victory.
 
WINNERS: Angle & Styles at 14:23 to capture the TNA Tag Titles. This looks like the "feel good moment" before the main event, unless there's another surprise title change in the main event. Solid semi-main event match. Angle and Styles are better as singles wrestlers, but they were still good here. (**3/4)

9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. STING -- TNA World Title match
 
Once the bell sounded, Roode slipped to the outside again to continue stalling. Sting then trapped him on the floor and ran Roode into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Sting landed successive blows to the mid-section, then face before hip-tossing Roode across the ring. Sting tried a second Scorpion Deathlock, but Roode slipped to the outside again. Sting tracked down Roode again and ran him into the ring steps this time. Roode eventually trapped Sting playing his cat & mouse game, and went on the attack. The crowd tried to rally behind Sting, who escaped a sleeperhold before slapping on a sleeperhold of his own. Roode back-dropped out of the hold, though, and both men sold on the mat.
 
Roode and Sting reset at 7:00 before the match moved to the top turnbuckle. Sting blocked Roode, then delivered a superplex. He wanted the Scorpion again, applied the hold, and sat down on Roode's back. Roode teased tapping out a few times, but reached the bottom rope for a desperation break. Roode quickly slipped out of the ring to sell the back before Sting ran him into the guardrail on the floor. Roode tried to run away to the back, but Sting dragged Roode down the ramp and back into the ring.
 
Once in the ring, Roode rolled out of the ring, where Sting met him with a Stinger Splash into the guardrail. The action moved to the broadcast table and the announcers cleared out while So Cal Val crawled away out of harm's way. Sting then slapped on the Scorpion Deathlock on the announce table, and Roode tapped out, but the ref noted to Sting that it has to be inside the ring. Sting released the hold, thinking he won the match.
 
During the confusion, Roode retrieved James Storm's left-over six-pack of beer. No one thought to remove it from ringside? Roode teased a bottle shot, but Sting stole it. The ref then took it away from Sting, but Roode pulled out another beer bottle and popped Sting across the forehead with it. The bottle didn't shatter like a gimmicked bottle, but broke into a few pieces. Roode then made a cover, the ref re-entered the ring and ignored the broken bottle in standard TNA Incompetent Refereeing fashion, and counted a three count for Roode.
 
WINNER: Roode at 10:54 to retain the TNA World Title. A typical TNA PPV main event with a tricks and short-cuts to get through a serviceable main event. If TNA wants to take the next step, improving their PPV main events is a Top 5 item to address. (**)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2012, 12:34 am
WWE RAW Results: 6-11-12 (next two posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_62332.shtml) In-ring results from the Torch...personal comments from the CLOW.

Show starts with Laurinaitis trying to kick things off but Vince McMahon comes out and asks whether Johnny should be fired (gee...guess wht he crowd said?). Sheamus joined them, agreed with the crowd and got booked in a match with Alb...er...a...Tensai. McMahon ends up driving Johnny's scooter off the stage.

1 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. TENSAI -- non-title match

The two big men locked up center-ring as the vocal males chanted, "Albert," toward Tensai. They went back and forth before Sheamus clotheslined Tensai and himself over the top rope. Cole posed a bunch of questions to the audience leading to break.

Back from break, the two men were locked up center-ring again. The camera focused on Tensai's belly, which appeared to be covered by BBQ sauce. No wait, some big handprints from Sheamus's attack during the commercial. Tensai landed a big Vader Bomb out of the corner, but Sheamus kicked out in-time. Sheamus then made a comeback with power offense before delivering ten big forearm smashes as Tensai hung on the ring apron.

Sheamus tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Tensai countered with a two-hand bomb for a two count. Tensai followed up with a kneelift, but walked right into a Brogue Kick off the ropes. Sheamus made the cover for the win. Post-match: The camera focused on some blood on the bridge of Sheamus's nose. After a replay of the high points and finish, Sheamus was shown celebrating the win as the announcers said they were impressed by the match.

WINNER: Sheamus at 9:20. Sheamus was solid in victory, and at least Tensai wasn't bad.

McMahon siting: Tells Johnny Strike one. Teddy Long suggests a 4-way match to fill Del Rio's spot against Sheamus in No Way Out. Johnny takes credit for the idea.

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO & Divas champion LAYLA vs. BETH PHOENIX & RICARDO RODRIGUEZ

The Divas started the match, and Ricardo got involved for a comedy spot. Ricardo tagged in after Beth decked Layla, then Santino automatically entered, so Ricardo ran away and tagged in Beth again. Santino had to leave, then Beth and Layla engaged in a standard Divas match while Santino played games with Ricardo ringside. Beth then took out Layla at the knee before hitting the Glam Slam for the win.

Post-match: Santino checked on Layla while politely applauding his former squeeze, Beth. Ricardo started doing a victory dance, acting as if he won the match. Santino had enough and ripped off his tuxedo to reveal a Justin Bieber t-shirt. Santino had a big laugh, then Ricardo ran out of the ring selling embarrassment.

WINNERS: Beth & Ricardo at 2:55. Comedy mixed with a basic set-up for a probable Divas Title re-match since Beth and Layla seem to be the only women in the division these days.

McMahon siting: Otunga tries to kiss up to Vince. Kofi's irate that Big Show KO'ed Truth and wants him. Johnny says you got him...in a steel cage. Vince approves.

-Bryan, Punk and Kane get into a argument, A.J. tries to get into the middle ofthings, Johnny makes a tag team match: Bryan and Kane vs Punk and A.J.


3 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. GREAT KHALI vs. JACK SWAGGER vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- #1 contender four-way elimination match to World Title

Khali teed off on Vickie's clients early on as Cole and Lawler debated whether this match was Laurinaitis's or Teddy Long's idea. After Khali awkwardly landed more offense, the other three wrestlers ganged up on Khali to score a simultaneous pinfall. Khali rolled out of the ring as Christian sold an ankle injury before they cut to break.

Back live, Cole was swift to falsely complement Laurinaitis on booking the match, prompting more debate over which non-wrestler booked this match while the remaining wrestlers competed in the ring. Vickie got involved from the outside by slapping Christian, drawing a reprimand from referee Mike Chioda. Christian then back-dropped Dolph over the top rope to the floor before landing a flying European Uppercut on Swagger. Suddenly, Ziggler snuck up behind Christian for a close two count on a roll-up. After Christian knocked Ziggler to the outside, Christian and Swagger engaged in a rapid-fire exchange with counters and reversals. Christian managed to avoid the anklelock before hitting the Killswitch. Ziggler then snuck back into the ring and pinned Swagger, which drew a mixed reaction from Vickie.

So, it's Ziggler vs. Christian. Ziggler tried to celebrate with Vickie, which allowed Christian to sneak in for a quick pin attempt, but only for a two count. Ziggler then went to work on Christian's injured ankle before Christian flung him away and landed a back-elbow smash. Ziggler suddenly came back with a sleeper, but Christian escaped and backed away to the corner looking for a Spear. But, Christian's ankle wouldn't allow him to run. Christian then slingshot Ziggler into the turnbuckle and nailed the Spear before making a cover for a close two count only that popped the crowd.

Christian called for the end, but Ziggler blocked and hit the Fameasser for a close two count. Lawler said it's a great match Long has come up with tonight. Ziggler wanted the Zig-Zag, but Christian slipped out and hit a reverse DDT for another nearfall. Christian then hobbled over to the corner, bantered with Vickie, and missed with a top-rope move. Christian sold his ankle going out, allowing Ziggler to drop Christian with the Zig-Zag for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ziggler and Vickie celebrated, then headed up the entrance ramp where World Hvt. champion Sheamus was waiting. Ziggler turned around and didn't back down from Sheamus, who held up his title belt in the air to give Ziggler a good look at what's on the line Sunday.

WINNER: Ziggler at 12:20 to become #1 contender. Two excellent sequences involving Christian & Swagger, then Christian & Ziggler at the end. Ziggler looks ready for the big-time, and it was interesting not to see Cody Rhodes involved before his IC Title challenge against Christian on Sunday. (**1/2)

McMahon siting: Natalya chats with Vince, Brodus Clay's dancers get funky with Vinnie and Ryder is surprised. WOO-WOO-WOO! YOU KNOW IT!

4 -- RYBACK vs. WILLARD FILLMORE & RUTHERFORD HAYES

The vocal males chanted, "Goldberg," as Ryback dismantled the presidentially-inspired enhancement talent. Cole inserted a presidential pun, then noted P.S. Hayes won't be doing too much moon-walking. The "Goldberg" chants picked up a bit as Ryback set up for a double Samoan Drop on the jobbers for a pin and the win. WWE went to a replay nearly as long as the match before returning live to show Ryback on-stage demanding to be fed more.

WINNER: Ryback at 1:32.

McMahon siting: Vince and Hornswoggle mocking Jim Ross, John Cena enters the picture, a very brief cameo of William Regal.

5 -- BIG SHOW vs. WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON -- steel cage match

Big Show dismantled Kofi after Kofi's initial burst, then began toying with him. Show screamed at the fans through the cage, asking if he should entertain him. Show landed a move, then stared at the fans some more as they chanted, "You Suck." Show went back to staring at the fans as Kofi continued to sell in the corner. Show whipped Kofi across the ring to the corner before screaming at the audience that they can't stop him.

Show then tried a corner splash, but Kofi blocked, only to fly into a choke-throw into the cage. Kofi tried to run away climbing the cage, then suddenly jumped over Show to land Trouble in Paradise. Show chest-pressed out of a pin attempt at two, though, then Kofi tried to run out of the cage, but Show grabbed him by the legs to drag him back into the cage. Show then landed a big knockout blow and stood over Kofi.

Show stared into the crowd, which booed him loudly. Kofi continued to sell unconsciousness in the ring as Show just walked around the cage telling the audience that no one can stop him. Ref Armstrong waved his arms while checking on Kofi, indicating Kofi is out cold. Show then walked out of the cage and stood on the ring steps before doing a balancing act to taunt the fans. Show placed both feet on the floor to win, then casually kept on walking toward the back. Cole wondered if anyone can stop Big Show. He then stopped on-stage and did Cena's hand-wave before leaving. Backstage: Laurinaitis was all-smiles watching Big Show's domination as Kingston was tended to by medics.

WINNER: Show via escape at 7:22. More domination for Show, but it still feels like they haven't connected the Cena and Show stories together to offer that compelling reason to order the PPV on Sunday. When the announcers offer up so many empty phrases and hyperbole and noise throughout each show, Cole's words come across empty and hollow trying to sell a PPV main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 13 2012, 12:35 am
6 -- SIN CARA vs. CURT HAWKINS

The mood lighting turned on, which made this match look like a Skittles commercial with blue lights, Cara's red tights, and Hawkins wearing new bright, neon green tights. Cara knocked Hawkins to the outside, then landed a flying plancha press. Hawkins returned the favor yanking Cara to the outside before mocking Cara. Back in the ring, Cara cut off Hawkins and landed successive high-flying moves before landing a flying armdrag. Both men appeared blown-up before Cara landed a head scissors single-arm DDT for the pin and the win. Cole said he can't wait to see more from Cara in the weeks to come.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 2:29. Until WWE comes up with an actual program for Cara, his role is pretty clear as an in-between-match guy to provide athleticism on the show, but not much more than that.

McMahon siting: McMahon confronts Daniel Bryan,ried comparing themselves to one another...Vince mentions he's never finished anything in 18 seconds and walked off.

7 -- VADER vs. HEATH SLATER

The crowd, which popped for the nostalgia return during ring intros, chanted "Let's Go Vader" as Vader frustrated Slater early on. Cole relayed a story about the first rib ever played on him in WWE when McMahon told him to put on Vader's mask. Vader beat down Slater before using his gut to cut off Slater's comeback. The fans chanted for a Vader Bomb before Vader scoop-slammed Slater in the corner. Vader then climbed to the second rope and delivered a big Vader Bomb. Pin and the win for Vader Time.

WINNER: Vader at 3:16.

8 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & A.J. vs. DANIEL BRYAN & KANE

Kane and Bryan took turns working over Punk early on as A.J. stood tentatively on the ring apron. Bryan landed Yes! Kicks before taunting A.J. as she stood on the ring apron. Punk came back with a powerslam before climbing up top, where he missed with a Macho Man elbow drop. Bryan then tagged in Kane as Punk teased tagging in A.J. before stopping short. Punk returned to face Kane, who slammed him into the corner, where Punk accidentally tagged A.J. The ref said it was a legal tag, then A.J. slowly walked into the ring and flashed a smile toward Kane. A.J. backed away, then skipped around Kane. "I'm very confused right now," Lawler said. Kane turned around, then A.J. suddenly hopped into Kane's arm and planted a big kiss on him. Kane maintained the embrace as the ref stood stunned in the corner. "Yes! Yes! Yes!" chant from the vocal males.

WWE went to a wide-shot to reveal Punk slowly reaching the corner ring steps selling disbelief over this. Kane eventually just walked over to Bryan and tagged him into the match before leaving the match. Bryan smirked and tried to go after A.J., but A.J. ran toward Punk, who tagged into the match and smashed Bryan. Punk then hit a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop for the pin and the win.

Post-match: The males stood still trying to figure out what just happened as A.J. sat down in the ring cross-legged a la Punk rocking back and forth. Kane stood on the ramp with hands-on-hips, Punk tried to do the math on what happened, and Bryan acted stunned ringside recovering from the finish.

WINNERS: Punk & A.J. at 4:58. This did not feel come across like the final hype for a WWE Title match on PPV, but WWE is treating the PPV like filler, so it was fitting WWE focused on the TV story centered on A.J. It's also partly a product of the WWE Title being complete de-valued.

Final segment: Not much to say that wasn't too predictible: McMahon calls Laurinaitis to the ring...is ready to fire him, Big Show comes out to defend him. John Cena then comes out. Show and Cena get into it...whoops! Big Show knocks out Vince by accident (too bad the punch missed him by a mile!). Laurinaitis calls Big Show away...Cena shows shock...fade to black.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 10:58 am
WWE NXT Results: 6-13-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_62428.shtml)

1 - PERCY WATSON & DERRICK BATEMAN vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Hawkins and Reks have bright neon green ring gear, which Regal says is a tribute to the Dynamic Dudes, and "People Power" t-shirts are also in Johnny Laurinaitis's honor.

Bateman and Hawkins start things off with a struggle for control. Hawkins kips up and Bateman launches a dropkick to Hawkins's stomach in return. Bateman exudes confidence as Reks tags in. Big boos for Reks, who then looks like he's going to cry when Bateman chops him. Watson and Bateman keep Reks isolated as Hawkins mouths off from the corner. Hawkins finally gets the tag and now Bateman is on the receiving end of a beating. Jawbreaker from Bateman lets him tag in Watson, who takes out both Reks and Hawkins and sends Bateman in to execute a suicide dive.

Watson is controlling Hawkins, but Reks distracts him so Hawkins can take him down. Watson takes a good stretch of abuse. Josh Mathews reminds viewers that the "New NXT" is arriving next week, without mention of where or when fans can watch it. Desperation enziguri and encouragement from Bateman lets Watson finally make a tag. Bateman unleashes on Reks and keeps Hawkins out of the game. Bateman with a running neckbreaker for a nearfall. The crowd is really enjoying this. The ref gets distracted and Reks takes advantage of Hawkins's interference to land the Burning Hammer and pin Bateman.

WINNERS: Reks & Hawkins in 11:20. Decent match, but some of the extended beat downs dragged it down a bit. I was happy to hear the crowd get involved in the match.

2 - KAITLYN vs. NATALYA

Natalya is continuing her new outfit, with some variations - lots of sparkly pink now. Natalya easily shows Kaitlyn who is boss with a take down, and Natalya responds with an armdrag, Natalya is incensed. Kaitlyn with a jackknife and Natalya bridges out and transitions into a backslide. Natalya says, "I hate you!" to Kaitlyn. The crowd isn't sure who to boo or cheer here. Natalya sits on Kaitlyn to cover her, and Kaitlyn kicks out so hard that Natalya goes flying. Nice sequence with a bow and arrow submission move from Natalya. Kaitlyn continues to try various leverage pins, then Natalya rams Kaitlyn hard into the turnbuckles. Kaitlyn tries a pin with her feet on the ropes, but the ref sees it. There's a couple of reversed roll-throughs and Kaitlyn ends up with the win.

WINNER: Kaitlyn in 5:15. I liked the story they were telling in the ring (the veteran Natalya having difficulty with the young upstart Kaitlyn, and getting more frustrated and using dirty tricks to win out of desperation), but a couple of the sequences didn't flow quite right. Still, it's better than the "Divas match" from Raw, right?

3 - THE USOS vs. JOHNNY CURTIS vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY - Tag Team Match

Jimmy and McGillicutty start the match. McGillicutty is quite arrogant, but he hurts himself headbutting Jimmy, which is pretty funny. Regal insinuates that Curtis goes to S&M clubs and asks if Mathews goes with him. Curtis tries to rip Jey's nose off, but Jey responds by nearly choking him out. McGillicutty takes out Jey from the outside, letting Curtis bring him to the corner for isolation.

McGillicutty has Jey's leg grapevined. Jey is desperate for a tag, but Curtis cuts him off. Jey is finally able to get the space needed for a tag, and Jimmy goes on hard, high-speed offense. Jimmy shows incredible fire in his attack. McGillicutty gets a Saito suplex to show Jimmy down. Tag is made, and the Usos land the Alley Use tag team Samoan Drop. Jey looks to cover McGillicutty, and Curtis lands a top-rope leg drop that goes more than halfway across the ring. Jimmy superkicks Curtis off the apron. McGillicutty misses the Turning Heads neckbreaker, allowing Jimmy to nail McGillicutty with a superkick and Jey hit the Superfly Splash for the win.

Josh Mathews signs off encouraging viewers to catch the New NXT next week. I hope so!

Winners: The Usos in 11:20. William Regal ends the match (and the season of NXT) begging the WWE higher-ups to give the audience more of this, and I concur. There were a lot of great spots here, including the Alley-Us Samoan Drop (one of my favorite moves in WWE) and Curtis's top-rope leg drop is downright impressive to see. The action broke down in a logical manner at the end.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 11:00 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-14-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62447.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- X Division champion AUSTIN ARIES vs. CHRIS SABIN vs. ZEMA ION -- Ultimate X match for X Division Title

As the bell sounded, the announcers hyped Aries conquering Samoa Joe at Slammiversary on Sunday. The match started with Sabin and Aries clearing Ion from the ring before engaging in a mid-ring back-and-forth. Ion then tried to sneak into the ring, but Sabin cut him off. Tenay noted Sabin is the veteran of this match, claiming Sabin has appeared in 15 Ultimate X bouts. All three men became involved as the announcers plugged the BFG Series starting tonight. Aries then cleared the ring and Sabin sold a left knee injury, which isn't good, even if he's selling. Aries followed with a double suicide dive, then ran around the ring to celebrate as the ref chased him down to offer some instructions.

Back in the ring, Aries and Ion had a mid-ring exchange while Sabin continued to sell ringside. Sabin then slid into the ring and hobbled over to Aries to deck him before rolling out of the ring again. Sabin disappeared ringside as Aries and Ion resumed an exchange on the top turnbuckle, which led to Ion sliding down one of the trusses holding up the structure. Ion recovered and tried to go after Aries again, but Aries delivered a big huracanrana, followed by a snap brainbuster center-ring. Aries then quickly scaled the cables, grabbed the title, unhooked it after a few moments, and dropped to the mat with possession of the title to win. Taz said it's just another day at the office for Aries.

WINNER: Aries at 7:21 to retain the X Division Title. Sabin's apparent injury put a damper on what had the makings of a good opener. It is unfortunate the Ultimate X match has become just-another-match in TNA with so many occurring through the years.

2 -- TV champion DEVON vs. HERNANDEZ -- TNA TV Title match

As Devon stood ringside waiting to make his entrance, Hernandez came flying over the top rope with a supersplash. Hernandez then rolled Devon into the ring, and, despite the unfair start, the ref called for the bell and Hernandez made a quick cover for a two count. Hernandez then settled into a bearhug trying to wear down Devon. After breaking free, Devon came flying off the ropes with a big shoulder tackle center-ring.

The two men traded bombs center-ring before Devon built momentum with successive offense. Suddenly, Hernandez came running out of the corner with a big shoulder tackle that sent Devon flying across the ring. It was good for a two count only. Hernandez tried to set up a top-rope move, but couldn't find his balance as Devon stood on his feet waiting. Hernandez eventually attempted a move off the top for a two count, then Devon came back with his spinebuster finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Devon at 3:34 to retain the TV Title. Good sequences during this match before the clunky finish.

3 -- 11-MAN GAUNTLET BATTLE ROYAL -- BFG Series match -- 20 points at stake

After some back-and-forth between Hardy and Styles, Rob Van Dam came out as the third entrant. Van Dam executed trademark high-flying offense before they cut to break with RVD posing in the ring.

Back live, Bully Ray's music was playing to bring out Ray as the fifth entrant. During the break, Magnus entered as the fourth entrant, and there were no eliminations. Ray eventually hit the ring and did some damage before Kurt Angle entered as #6. Angle cleaned house before focusing on Ray to stomp a mudhole in him in the corner. Still no eliminations.

"The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero's music played to bring out a returning Pope, who Tenay said has been away doing TV and movies. Pope, #7, cleaned house before Ray attacked him from behind to cut off Pope's momentum. Hardy, who had been selling an injury after the break, was eliminated for the first cut of the evening. Suddenly, Abyss appeared from under the ring and yanked Ray over the top rope as everyone watched. Apparently that's legal in TNA, so Hardy and Ray are out. Chaos resumed leading to a break.

Back live, Robbie E. was in the ring as the eighth entrant, and there were no eliminations during the break. Suddenly, RVD was eliminated. Daniels then came out as the ninth entrant. Daniels pointed to the crowd, walked into the ring, and ate a springboard forearm smash from an angry Styles. Styles suddenly and accidentally nailed Angle in the head with a Pele kick when Daniels ducked, then Daniels tossed a distracted Styles over the top rope. Moments later, Angle was eliminated at Styles's feet, ending the night for the new tag champs. Styles tried to give Angle some aid leading to the top of the hour.

Samoa Joe's music played at the top of the hour to bring out entrant #10. Joe walked right up to Robbie and eliminated him, then lit up Magnus with a chop. The former tag champs had a staredown center-ring, then traded blows before Magnus landed a big boot. But, Joe pulled down the top rope and Magnus went flying to the outside for another elimination. Joe, Daniels, and Pope were left in the ring.

The final entrant (#11) was James Storm, who eliminated Pope right away, then teed off on Daniels as Joe sold in the corner. Storm eliminated Pope, leaving Joe and Storm. Tenay then passed along a word that whoever does not win the TNA World Title match later tonight will be the 12th man in the BFG Series. Joe and Storm battled on the ring apron, then Storm landed a Last Call Superkick to send Joe off the ring apron to the floor and win. Storm gets 20 points.

WINNER: Storm at 20:35 to win 20 points in the BFG Series. Plenty of interesting developments sprinkled throughout this match to set the stage for the three-month BFG Series. Overall, a nice quality, lengthy match to bridge the gap from the first to second hour.

4 -- Knockouts champion MISS TESSMACHER vs. MADISON RAYNE -- non-title match

Back in the Impact Zone, Rayne came out first to face the new Knockouts champion fresh off her title victory at Slammiversary. Rayne quickly took control of the match, then Tessmacher came back with successive offense. Rayne cut off Tessmacher, but Tessmacher hit a legsweep finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Tessmacher at 2:50. Fine start to Tessmacher's title reign trying to establish some credibility with a clean victory using her finish.

5 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- TNA World Title match

Anderson quickly took it to Roode, who did not bail from the ring as he did at Slammiversary. Roode then turned the tables and knocked Anderson to the floor, but airballed a plancha attempt. Anderson ran Roode into the ring steps and taunted him ringside leading to break.

Back live, Roode had Anderson in a headlock center-ring. Roode continued to apply pressure to Anderson, who tried to fight out with elbow strikes before executing a backslide for a two count. Roode then elbowed Anderson in the back of the head before landing a neckbreaker for a nearfall. So, Roode went to work on the back of the head/neck looking to exploit Anderson's past concussion issues. Anderson absorbed the attack, then made a comeback with successive offense before landing a spinwheel kick to the head. Anderson set up for the Mic Check, but Roode ducked and slapped on a Crossface submission center-ring. Anderson escaped, then scored a series of close nearfalls before Roode rolled to the ring apron.

From the ring apron, Roode yanked Anderson's left shoulder across the top rope. Roode followed with a whip into the top turnbuckle before slapping on the Crossface again. Anderson fought the hold as Taz noted he must be in a lot of pain at this point. Anderson tried to get to the bottom rope, but had no choice but to tap out. Taz quickly covered for Anderson, saying there's no shame in tapping in that situation. Anderson was shown recovering in the corner with a stern look on his face as Roode celebrated the win by standing tall in the ring.

WINNER: Roode via submission at 11:31. Nice match and a good, clean, needed victory for Roode after looking weak recently. Anderson wasn't hurt taking a loss here. (**1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 11:01 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-14-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_62473.shtml)

1 - ZACK RYDER vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

There's some early back-and-forth and jawing to each other. Ryder reverses much of McGillicutty's offense and sends him outside, then lands a slingshot plancha. McGillicutty turns it around with action on the apron. Ryder can't get any traction, and the announcers are focusing on how both McGillicutty and Ryder need wins to get back into the championship picture.

McGillicutty is continuing his domination out of the break. Ryder dodges an elbow from the ropes to mount a comeback. Broski Boot gets a nearfall. Ryder reverses a suplex with a smooth neckbreaker for a nearfall, and calls for the Rough Ryder. McGillcutty avoids it, but eats an enziguri, then the Rough Ryder for the loss.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 9:45. I really liked the focus that both Scott Stanford and Josh Mathews paid to the match itself and things related to the wrestlers in the ring, instead of totally unrelated things. It was also good for them to talk as if matches on Superstars are important, and emphasize the importance of wins and losses. This was a smooth match.

2 - THE USOS vs. TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG - Tag Team match

"The Primetime Players" have their own music now. Jey and Young start the match. Jey mocks Young's pre-match hair primping, then the Usos start a stretch of offense. O'Neil comes into the match and the momentum shifts. O'Neil and Young isolate Jey for a stretch. Double tag and it is Jimmy firing up on Young. O'Neil breaks up a tag, and Young takes out Jimmy's knee when he deals with O'Neil. They hit their tag team finisher for the win.

WINNERS: O'Neil & Young in 5:20. I didn't care much for this match the times I saw it on NXT, and I still don't care much for it. Jimmy Uso is really good coming off the hot tag, and he shows fantastic intensity when it prepares for the stinkface. O'Neil and Young need to be introduced as "The Primetime Players" instead of as a team of individuals. Right now, The Usos are the only "true" tag team in WWE, in that they have a name for the team. I think that Superstars is the right place for the Primetime Players right now, but the wrong place for the Usos.

3 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

They start with some fine mat work. As things progress, the speed picks up and they spend more time in the air. Gabriel risks a big dive to the outside towards the announce desk and it pays off. Springboard cross-body gets a two count for Gabriel, who then gets aggressive and fends off Hunico's attempts to strike back.

Hunico is controlling out of the break. The crowd laughably chants "USA!" to fire up the South Africa native Gabriel. Hunico turns the match into a series of potential submissions. Gabriel does a backflip off the turnbuckle, catches Hunico, and lands a reverse DDT, which was so well done. Gabriel speeds things up. A nice series of nearfalls and counters ensues. Gabriel wants his new DDT finisher, but Hunico catches him and turns it into a suplex for the closest nearfall I've seen in a while. Enziguri puts Hunico on the mat. Gabriel up top, but Hunico pops up and nails him with a punch. They vie for control on the turnbuckle and Camacho gets involved. Hunico finally is able to win the test of strength, and lands a sweet huracanrana directly into a pin for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 13:15. Both men are very skilled in the ring and they had the time to show it. No matter what kind of wrestling style you like, it was on display in this match. This may be the best match I've seen on WWE in a few months that did not involve Tyson Kidd. If you don't like this match, you shouldn't be watching wrestling.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 11:03 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-15-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62499.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – DOLPH ZIGGLER & DANIEL BRYAN vs. C.M. PUNK & SHEAMUS

Match began immediately out of break. Forward roll on Bryan for a one-count. Punk tagged in to renew his rivalry with Bryan. Quick tags on both sides in the early going. Punk whipped Ziggler into the ropes, but Sheamus propelled himself over to shoulder tackle the Show-Off. Standing vertical suplex on Ziggler. Both A.J. and Vickie were still at ringside, for what it’s worth. Ziggler surprised Bryan with a tag, and Bryan was hesitant to enter against Sheamus. A distraction led to Bryan taking over on offense. Standing elbowdrop, lateral press, only a one-count at 3:44. Hot tag to Punk at 4:18, firing away offensively on Bryan. However, momentum was squarely in the heel corner, with Punk outside the ring, as they went to break at 5:09.

Back at 9:05 with Punk and Bryan still in the ring, but the heels were making frequent tags in wearing down the WWE Champion. Sheamus finally made the hot tag and connected with White Noise on Ziggler. He called for the Brogue Kick, but Vickie got on the apron. A.J. shoved her into the ring. Sheamus tried to get her out, but Ziggler rolled him up for the victory.

WINNERS: Ziggler and Bryan, at 11:39. By-the-numbers booking to make Ziggler seem like a threat to Sheamus at the PPV.

2 – “FUNKASAURUS” BRODUS CLAY vs. HEATH SLATER

Running heabutt to the chest of Slater as soon as the bell rang. Big corner splash, then overhead suplex. Big splash for the big finish.

WINNER: Clay, at :23. At least Slater is getting a lot of TV time. He seems to be the go-to JTTS for the up-and-coming guys.

As Clay danced with the Funkadactyls after the match, David Otunga ran out and took out Clay’s leg. The ladies fled to ringside as Otunga continued going after the leg. They replayed Otunaga’s attack. Trainers and a few referees checked on Clay in the ring. I’m surprised they’re spending TV time to hype up the pre-show match, but they have to do that if they want people to tune in and care about it.

3 – ALICIA FOX vs. BETH PHOENIX

No entrances for anyone, actually. Layla joined in on commentary. Back elbow by Fox but she missed a flip leg-drop. Back-breaker by Phoenix, then she gave Fox the Glam Slam while looking at Layla.

WINNER: Phoenix, at :51. Beth seems head-and-shoulders above the other Divas in the division in a lot of ways.

4 – CHRISTIAN vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger’s gyrations on the ramp before coming down the aisle make it so difficult to take him seriously. Swagger powered Christian into the corenr, but fell victim to the Flip Kick in the opposite one. Christian low-bridged Swagger out of the ring. A Vickie distraction led to Swagger clotheslining Christian down. Back in the ring, Swagger slammed the IC Champ. Christian turned things around and set up for a Spear, but Swagger tripped him up and applied the ankle-lock. Christian quickly escaped and hit a diving elbow off the second rope. He went to the top where Swagger met him, but he knocked Swagger off and landed the frogsplash for the win.

WINNER: Christian, at 2:47. Swagger is barely one step above the Slaters and the Hunicos at this point.

5 – ARI COHEN & MIKE TESTA vs. RYBACK – HANDICAP MATCH

The two jobbers acknowledged that everybody thinks they’re jokes, then did a knock-knock joke predicting the end of Ryback’s winning streak. Then a “chicken crosses the road” joke. And before they could get to their “two guys walk into a bar…” joke, Ryback’s music hit.

Ryback knocked a jobber out of the ring with another on his back. The one on his back went up to his shoulders and tried punches, but Ryback no world and turned him around and into a powerbomb. Fallaway slam one into the other. Ryback finished them both with his now routine double-team finish.

WINNER: Ryback, at 2:04. It’ll be interesting to see what happens when he goes to facing main roster guys and can’t treat them like the jobbers.

6 – TYSON KIDD vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

Side Russian leg-sweep right off the bat. Sandow argued with the ref about a pin, allowing Kidd to hit a moonsault off the top for two. He attempted a Sharpshooter, but Sandow shoved him off with his legs. Knees to the chest, then a neck-breaker for three.

WINNER: Sandow, at 1:02. Would like to have seen a longer match here, but hopefully that’s to come.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 01:35 pm
WWE No Way Out PPV Results: 6-17-12 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_62544.shtml)

1 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- World Title match

After the bell sounded, Ziggler and Vickie met on the ring apron to discuss this being Ziggler's night tonight. Ziggler then took a victory kiss from Vickie, slowly turned around and dodged Sheamus's Brogue Kick, avoiding the WM28 finish from Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan. Ziggler walked around the outside to show Sheamus that he didn't get him, then re-entered the ring to begin the match. Meanwhile, Cole noted Sheamus has the weight advantage 267 vs. 213 lbs.

Sheamus and Ziggler went back and forth exchanging offense without either man really gaining a sustained advantage. The crowd came to life periodically, with mainly the vocal males chanting for Ziggler. Ziggler then applied a headlock and did a mid-hold headstand, which drew Jerry Lawler's ire pulling that stunt during a World Title match. Ziggler then executed a second DDT of the match, but it only resulted in a two count.

Ziggler went back to a reverse chinlock, then went for a roll-up, but the ref stopped his count when he saw Ziggler grab the ropes for extra leverage. After Ziggler applied another reverse chinlock, they tried to set up a counter sequence, but kind of got locked up and stuck in the middle of the ring before Ziggler eventually hit a Fameasser for a close two count. The action moved up top, where Ziggler nailed a super facebuster from the top turnbuckle. Ziggler made the cover, but Sheamus kicked out in time, drawing a reaction for the close nearfall.

Both men sold on the mat - Ziggler selling his left knee and Sheamus selling the effects of the facebuster. They reset with Sheamus avoiding another sleeper attempt into the Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus followed with ten forearm strikes to the chest, drawing concerns from Vickie. Ziggler came back moments later with a sleeper attempt, but Sheamus countered into White Noise. Sheamus got That Look in his eyes, fired himself up, went to the corner, and started calling for the Brogue Kick. Ziggler stood up, turned around, and took the BK. Sheamus with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Vickie just rested on the ring apron, selling exasperation over the loss for her client. Sheamus celebrated the title retention, then left the ring before WWE replayed high points from the match. Back live, Sheamus celebrated with the fans as Ziggler sold frustration ringside.

WINNER: Sheamus at 15:10 to retain the World Title. Good at some points, off at other points, and the crowd was up-and-down with the action before investing all the way in the final few minutes. There was never a sense that Sheamus was in jeopardy of losing the title, there were some convincing nearfalls for Ziggler. (**1/2)

2 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. RICARDO RODRIGUEZ -- non-title tuxedo match
 
Santino was out first in a powder-blue, Dumb & Dumber-inspired tuxedo. Ricardo came out in his usual black tuxedo. They had a posedown to see who could get the best crowd reaction for his tuxedo, which Santino of course won. Ricardo, upset, tore off some of Santino's tuxedo, then Santino tore off some of Ricardo's out of retaliation. Santino then did a matador routine leading to Ricardo flying through the ropes to the outside. Ricardo re-entered the ring, where Santino began removing some of Ricardo's clothing. The vocal males chanted, "Boring, Boring," as Cole recalled his favorite tuxedo matches.
 
Ricardo lost his upper clothing, but the bowtie remained. Santino then pulled out the Cobra, but Ricardo cut him off and began stripping down Santino. Santino revealed a Cobra sock, then kipped up and kicked Ricardo in the face before stripping Ricardo down to his Alberto Del Rio underwear for the win. Santino sold disgust over the underwear as the announcers cackled and laughed as if this was the greatest thing they've ever seen.
 
WINNER: Santino at 4:25.
 
3 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. CODY RHODES -- Intercontinental Title match
 
Rhodes was out first as Cole plugged Rhodes's Facebook page. Christian then came out sporting a new Periodic Table of Elements-inspired t-shirt. After the bell sounded, the announcers discussed Christian and Edge as a tag team and Christian wanting to be remembered like Edge. Early on, Rhodes shoved Christian hard in the chest, so Christian slapped him across the face and landed successive offense that sent Rhodes to the outside. On the floor, Rhodes avoided high-flying attempts, then cut off Christian and went to work on Christian's left shoulder back in the ring.
 
After a few minutes of working the shoulder, Rhodes shoved Christian off the ropes down to the floor, drawing oohs from the crowd. Rhodes tried to follow-up, but Christian ran Rhodes into the ring steps before delivering a desperation swinging DDT using the ring steps for a base. Both men beat a ten count back into the ring, then Christian scored a nearfall before calling for the Killswitch. Rhodes avoided, then Christian went to the top rope for a flying cross-body, but Rhodes rolled through into a pin for a two count.
 
Both men sold the effects of the match before Rhodes hopped to the second rope, posed to the crowd, and lost momentum when Christian sprung on him with a snap head scissors for a two count. Rhodes came back with more work on Christian's left shoulder, then a kick to the stomach into the Alabama Slam for a nearfall. Christian came back with a fallaway reverse DDT, though, then called for the Spear. Rhodes saw it coming, though, and bailed to the outside. Back in the ring, Christian caught Rhodes with the Killswitch and the crowd popped for the apparent finish, but Rhodes kicked out in time.
 
Next, Christian went to the top rope, where Rhodes met him. Christian shoved Rhodes to the mat, though, and went for a Frogsplash, but Rhodes got his knees up to block. Rhodes followed with a Disaster Kick attempt, but Christian avoided. And, a second time. Christian then nailed the Spear for the pin and the win. Cole said it's only appropriate Christian use Edge's finisher since he wants to follow in his footsteps.
 
WINNER: Christian at 11:28 to retain the IC Title. Excellent final two minutes. Just a great sequence of counters/reversals before Christian showed off his third finisher in the repertoire. The crowd was not all the way invested during the first-half after the tuxedo match, but Christian and Rhodes got them by the end. (**1/2)

4 -- PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes and AW) vs. PRIME TIME PLAYERS (TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG) vs. THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL & TYSON KIDD -- #1 contender match to Tag Titles -- fatal four-way match
 
The Usos and PTP'ers started the match, then Epico slap-tagged Darren Young, making Primo & Epico legal for the match. Justin Gabriel then tagged himself in on Epico, leading to an acrobatic display by Gabriel and Jimmy leading to a stalemate. The Usos cleared the ring before Titus blind-tagged into the match to go after Gabriel. Primo and Epico then tagged in and went to work on Gabriel as AW watched closely and Rosa trash-talked. As the match slowed, Lawler noted Rosa dominated one his dreams the other night.
 
Gabriel eventually made a tag to Kidd, who went after Primo with high-impact offense. The action broke down moments later before Kidd missed with a springboard elbow smash on Primo. Primo then hit the Backstabber on Kidd, but PTP'ers broke up the pin. The Usos followed with a double superkick, then flew at the PTP'ers ringside. Back in the ring, Primo tried to pin Kidd, but Kidd kicked out. Darren Young then slap-tagged into the match before bodies went flying again. Even more bodies went flying when Kidd landed a top-rope huracanrana sending Primo into everyone else ringside.
 
Following the big spot of the match, AW rolled Primo back into the ring, presumably to help him score the pin, but it led to Darren Young nailing Primo with his gutbuster finisher. Epico tried to break up the pin, but AW held him back, allowing Young to score the win. Post-match: AW entered the ring to join Titus and D-Young in the celebration. Rosa, Primo, and Epico then argued with AW before Primo & Epico shoved him down to the mat. Titus & D-Young made the save, clearing Primo & Epico from the ring. On the floor, Rosa checked on her men as AW, Titus, and O'Neil celebrated in the ring.
 
WINNERS: Young & O'Neil at 9:30 to become new #1 contenders to Tag Titles. Very slow at times before a noteworthy finish with AW associating with a new team. It remains to be seen if this actually leads to a tag feud involving Primo & Epico, or if they disappear. (*1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 01:36 pm
5 -- Divas champion LAYLA vs. BETH PHOENIX -- Divas Title match
 
Beth was out first for a Divas Title re-match from Over the Limit. After the Spanish announcers talked on-camera, Layla came out to defend the title. The match started with some back-and-forth before Layla grabbed Beth's tiara and mocked her mannerisms. This was the theme early on before Beth caught up to Layla and began an attack. The turning point was Layla countering a feat of strength military press into a DDT, then Layla hit the Lay-Out for a clean pin and win.
 
WINNER: Layla at 6:57 to retain the Divas Title. One of those months where WWE wanted Beth to look like a comedy figure, rendering her ineffective as a challenger to the title.
 
6 -- HUNICO (w/Camacho) vs. SIN CARA
 
Cue up the mood lighting. Sin Cara knocked Hunico to the outside early on, but Hunico blocked a high-flying move with a knee to the face. Back in the ring, Hunico went to work on Cara as the crowd sat quietly. Hunico showed off some surprising strength with a side powerbomb out of a mathold. The crowd tried to wake up with a "We Want Ryder" chant as Hunico continued the attack. Cara then mounted a comeback with a top-rope huracanrana followed by kicks. Cara followed with his spinning single-arm head scissors takedown for the pin and the win.
 
WINNER: Sin Cara at 5:48. Hunico had a surprising amount of offense to retain credibility in defeat. Cara is a one-note act at this point and WWE is struggling to re-connect him to the audience following his return to TV from injury.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. KANE -- three-way match for the WWE Title
 
After an initial flurry from all three men, Punk and Bryan played a game of one-upsmanship alternating Yes! kicks on Kane. They bounced off the ropes, then double-dropkicked Kane. Punk and Bryan then came face-to-face to begin exchanging chops and punches - the crowd was "Yes!" for Bryan and "No!" for Punk. Punk then back-dropped Bryan over the top rope to the floor before running into a big clothesline from Kane. Punk recovered, then splashed Kane and Bryan on the outside before posing with the fans. Kane had enough of horsing around and took both opponents apart with high-impact offense on the floor and back in the ring.
 
Bryan eventually recovered and cleared Kane from the ring before engaging Punk in another mid-ring exchange. Punk wanted a top-rope superplex, but Kane re-entered and cleared Punk. Punk then pulled down Kane, but Kane pulled down Punk, then Punk pulled down Kane. They couldn't decide on who should superplex Bryan, so Bryan perched himself on the top rope for a double dropkick on both men, which Lawler called a great move. Bryan then fired off rapid-fire kicks to both men before missing on Punk, who rolled him up for a close two count. Punk and Bryan then went up top, and Kane joined the party. They set up a Doomsday spot - which Cole acknowledged - where Punk nailed a springboard clothesline on Bryan off Kane's shoulders. Punk could only score a two count, though.
 
Punk reset, scoopslammed Bryan, and went up top for the Macho Man elbow drop, which he connected with for a two count only. Punk wanted the GTS, but Kane kicked Bryan off Punk's shoulders to the floor and covered Punk for a two count. Punk then kicked Kane in the head and went for a Savage elbow drop, but Kane moved. Bryan then scampered back into the ring to nail a top-rope diving headbutt on Punk for a nearfall. Bryan cleared Kane to the floor, then turned his attention to Punk as Booker mistakenly said Bryan lost the WWE Title, when he actually lost the World Title. Moments later, Bryan slapped on the Yes! Lock, but Punk reversed into a two count. Punk came back with the GTS moments later, but Kane yanked Bryan out of the ring. Kane then went up top for a flying clothesline on Punk. Kane called for a chokeslam, but Punk countered with a DDT for a two count.
 
At 16:00, Punk climbed up top for a Macho Man elbow to Kane for another two count. Booker then said the World Title will make people do strange things, again missing that this is for the WWE Title. Punk called for the GTS to Kane, but Kane came back with a chokeslam for a very close nearfall when Punk was barely able to roll the shoulder. Kane screamed at the ref as Lawler talked about how close Kane was to winning the match. Kane gathered himself, then wanted a Tombstone, but Punk fought out. Suddenly, A.J. appeared on the ring apron and was bumped during a Kane-Punk exchange. Punk recovered, then kind of hit the GTS on Kane. Punk made the cover for the win.
 
Post-match: Punk celebrated his title victory as A.J. was sprawled out on the floor. Kane stood over A.J. before they replayed Punk shoving Kane into the ropes, which bumped A.J. to the floor. They showed Punk hitting the GTS moments later to retain the title. Back live, A.J. remained sprawled out selling injuries before Kane scooped her up and carried her to the back. The camera showed A.J. peering over Kane's shoulder showing no ill effects as she looked into the ring to smile toward Punk. WWE went back to a replay of the finish with Kane showing concern for A.J., causing him to become distracted. Back live, Punk indicated he realized what happened before celebrating again. They stayed with this for a while, as the announcers continued to try to explain the story of Crazy A.J. helping Punk win.
 
WINNER: Punk at 18:17 to retain the WWE Title. The three-way match formula is tired, but they had some really good sequences throughout the match with two smaller wrestlers and one larger wrestler working well together. A.J. backing Punk stuck to the match build-up, but there wasn't that big "moment" here after weeks of TV investment. (***1/2)

8 -- RYBACK vs. DAN DELANEY & ROB GRYMES -- handicap match
 
Ryback did his usual pick-apart routine as the crowd chanted, "Goldberg." Ryback then landed a double running Samoan Drop for a double pin and the win as Cole made some weird noises. "Feed...me...more!" Ryback shouted toward the camera after the victory.
 
WINNER: Ryback at 1:38.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 18 2012, 01:37 pm
9 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW -- steel cage match -- if Show loses, Laurinaitis is "fired" -- if Cena loses, Cena is "fired" on Raw
 
Once the bell sounded, Show quickly slammed Cena into the steel cage as the fans made all sorts of noise chanting over each other. Cole then heeled on the crowd, saying Laurinaitis has two kids at home, so it would be a travesty if he were fired on Father's Day. Booker replied that it would give him more time at home. Show continued to toy with Cena before teasing the WMD, but Cena ducked and Show's fist ate the cage wall. Cena tried to escape, but Show yanked him down to the mat. Cole continued to hype Laurinaitis as Show took his time dismantling Cena. Cena then tried to scamper through the cage door, but Show pulled him back inside the cage. Cena tried to fight back, but Show ran him over with a big clothesline. WWE then cut to a shot of Johnny smiling and McMahon expressionless. Show followed up by looking down at Johnny and McMahon with a big smile. Show then trash-talked the fans while taking his time working on Cena.
 
Cena finally made a comeback by blocking a corner splash and landing a bulldog for a nearfall. Cena then tried to climb over the cage to wake up the crowd, but Show yanked him down back inside the cage. They fought against the cage wall before Cena crotched Show across the top rope. Show recovered moments later and delivered a big Vader Bomb out of the corner for a close two count. For his next trick, Show grabbed Cena around the neck, climbed to the top turnbuckle, and pulled Cena up to the top rope. After throwing Cena to the mat, Show walked the top rope using the cage wall as support before missing with a flying elbow drop when Cena moved. Cena recovered in the corner, then Show tried crawling away through the door, but Cena made the save and pulled Show back inside the cage.
 
At 13:00, Cena and Show avoided each other's offense before Cena nailed a shoulder block. Laurinaitis was shown on the edge of his seat, then Laurinaitis got out of his seat and took out the ringside ref before closing the cage door. McMahon grabbed Johnny, but then Laurinaitis shoved McMahon into the cage, slamming it on Cena's head. Show followed with a big chokeslam on Cena, who kicked out of a pin attempt. After a pause, Show measured Cena for the KO Punch, but Cena ducked and ref Armstrong took the KO Punch. After the ref bump, Show KO Punched Cena. Show was left alone in the cage as McMahon was tended to ringside.
 
Suddenly, Brodus Clay appeared ringside with chair in-hand. Clay begged Big Show to come through the door and get himself some. Show teased climbing over the wall, but Brodus didn't buy it. Lawler said there's no way out for Big Show. Clay then waved for more folks, and out came Alex Riley and Santino, who Show bumped off the cage wall. Show remained trapped inside the cage, then Zack Ryder hit the cage wall and Show KO Punched Ryder to the floor. Show decided to try to climb, but Kofi Kingston came flying down to ringside. Kofi climbed the cage wall, then kicked Show off the cage wall down to the mat inside the cage.
 
After the chaos, Cena began to stir as Laurinaitis surveyed the scene from outside the cage. Cena tried to climb through the cage door, but Show pulled him back. Cena then dropped Show with the Attitude Adjustment center ring. "Cena did it!" Lawler exclaimed. Cena paused to sell, then draped an arm across Show, but the ref remained out cold. Cena then decided to try to climb over the cage as Show tried to climb through the cage door. Brodus Clay then left his post guarding the cage door to hold back Laurinaitis. Cena suddenly flew off the cage to the floor moments before Show crawled through the cage door. Cena's music played, declaring Cena the winner despite all of the refs KO'ed.
 
WINNER: Cena at 19:24. Very slow early on before they went to the chaotic finish that engaged the crowd and delivered a satisfying pay-off for Cena Fans. Where they go from here on Raw tomorrow night will be interesting. (**)
 
Post-match: Brodus released Laurinaitis, who tried to smack him with his crutch before Cena ducked and hoisted Laurinaitis onto his shoulders. McMahon then re-appeared and shouted in Laurinaitis's face, "John Laurinaitis, you're fired!" Cena followed with an AA through the Spanish announce table for the exclamation point. Booker and Lawler warned Cole that he may be next. McMahon then marched to the back with a frown on his face as Cena celebrated the win ringside. They replayed Laurinaitis's reaction to Cena winning before showing McMahon fire Laurinaitis. Cole suddenly turned on Laurinaitis, saying he did a terrible job running both shows. "I never supported him!" Cole claimed. He then wanted to know who will run Raw on Monday and Smackdown on Friday. Cena was shown celebrating inside the cage before Cole signed off ten minutes before the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2012, 02:34 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-21-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62673.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. DANIELS -- BFG Series match

In the crowd, Joseph Park was shown intently watching. Also, the announcers noted all BFG Series matches have a 10-minute time limit. Anderson and Daniels went back and forth before Daniels got too cocky, which allowed Anderson to make a comeback and hit the Mic Check for a clean pin and the win.

WINNER: Anderson at 3:06; Anderson gets 7 points.

Robbie E. was in the ring backed by Rob Terry. Robbie issued an open challenge to anyone in the back, and out came Kurt Angle ready for a snack.

2 -- KURT ANGLE vs. ROBBIE E. (w/Rob Terry) -- BFG Series match

Robbie tried to jump Angle once Angle hit the ring, but Angle quickly cut him off and landed three German Suplexes followed by the Angle Slam. Angle flowed right into the Anklelock and Robbie quickly tapped out. Angle kept on smiling and walked right out of the ring.

WINNER: Angle via submission at 0:33; Angle gets 10 points for a submission. Nice, quick, clean, safe victory for Angle.

3 -- MAGNUS vs. A.J. STYLES -- BFG Series match

Styles hit the ring and landed right hand blows before delivering a backbreaker. Styles tried a top-rope move, but Magnus intercepted him in mid-air, then turned it into a big suplex. Magnus continued the assault with forearm strikes, but walked into a textbook dropkick. Magnus avoided the Pele Kick, though, and scored a one count on a pin attempt. They cut to a shot of Joseph Park snacking on popcorn as Magnus settled into a chinlock. Styles came back with a corner clothesline before landing a kick to the head.

Styles went to the corner for a potential finisher as Daniels and Kaz came out to ringside holding paper. Their presence provided a distraction, which allowed Magnus to deliver his finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match: Daniels and Kaz sold mock frustration that Styles lost his match. They left ringside as Styles recovered in the ring.

WINNER: Magnus at 2:28; Magnus gets 7 points. Fine use of Daniels & Kaz to give Styles an "out" for his early BFG Series loss and continue building to Styles "coming clean" on whatever the issue with Dixie is.

4 -- TARA vs. TAELER HENDRIX -- Gut Check match

Tara played the veteran role early on, giving Hendrix a lesson in the ring. Mid-match, Joseph Park was instructed by a stagehand to leave his bleacher seat. Hendrix eventually teased a comeback, but Tara cut her off and scored with the Widow's Peak for a clean win.

WINNER: Tara at 2:34.

5 -- SAMOA JOE vs. JAMES STORM -- BFG Series match

Joe was the aggressor early on, working on Storm's shoulder. Meanwhile, the announcers told the late-arriving audience that they missed a lot in the first hour. Joe continued to work on Storm as Taz amused himself with pronoun discussion. Storm made a comeback with forearm strikes, but Joe cut him off with a knee to the gut into an armbreaker. Storm fought back with elbows to the gut, then right hand strikes before building momentum with clotheslines. Storm followed with a flying forearm, but got caught in the corner, where Joe smashed him with an enziguiri. Joe then slapped on a rear naked choke, but Storm escaped and flowed into the Last Call Superkick. Storm with the pin for the win.

Post-match: Storm celebrated by shooting alcohol into the crowd. Joe wasn't happy about the celebration and brought a beer bottle into the ring. Storm saw it coming, though, and prepared to defend himself. Joe opted to give it to Storm, though, as a "sign of mutual respect," according to Tenay, before bailing from the ring to give Storm the celebration spotlight.

WINNER: Storm at 3:55; Storm gets 7 points to bring him to 27 points.

6 -- BULLY RAY vs. "THE POPE" D'ANGELO DINERO -- BFG Series match

In the ring, Pope turned his back to remove his jacket, which gave Ray an opening to jump him from behind. Of course, this being TNA, the bell sounded despite the unfair start. Ray continued the assault with sustained offense before Pope came back with a right hand strike. They traded bombs before Pope landed an atomic drop into shoulder block. Pope landed successive bionic elbows, then delivered his running drop across Ray's neck. Pope wanted a top rope move, but Ray smacked the ropes, crotching Pope.

Ray followed with a big corner splash before landing six of ten corner punches. Suddenly, Abyss came through the crowd and called out for Ray. Abyss made his way to ringside as Pope kneed Ray in the back, sending him to the floor. Ray then got up and saw Abyss standing on the front row. Abyss hopped the guardrail and frightened Ray back into the ring. Back in the ring, Pope hit a quick impact move for the pin and the win. Post-match: Abyss hit the ring and chased Ray out of the ring. Ray ran away to the back as Abyss - walking like a zombie - demanded he come to him.

WINNER: Pope at 3:45; Pope gets 7 points. Abyss's character just doesn't seem to fit in the current TNA look and feel. Feels too connected to TNA's past during eras of illogical, convoluted storylines.

7 -- Knockouts champion MISS TESSMACHER vs. MICKIE JAMES -- Knockouts Title match

Mickie played the dominant veteran role early on, and scored several close nearfalls that continued to frustrate her. Tessmacher came back with a close nearfall after Mickie kicked out at the last second. Tessmacher then scored with a quick leverage pin for the win. Afterward, Tessmacher took her belt and high-tailed it out of the ring as Mickie sold frustration and pent-up anger.

WINNER: Tessmacher at 5:20. Basic storytelling with Tessmacher trying to hold on for dear life as new champ, while Mickie's frustration continues to boil not having the title to be recognized as the self-proclaimed best women's wrestler in TNA.

8 -- JEFF HARDY vs. ROB VAN DAM -- BFG Series match

Hardy knocked RVD to the floor within the first minute, then RVD blocked a high-flying attempt. The crowd picked up a dueling "Let's Go Hardy / R - V - D" chant as RVD began his attack in the ring. RVD followed with a split-legged moonsault for a nearfall, then Hardy came back with a bulldog. Hardy followed with a front suplex before climbing up top. He wanted a Swanton, but Rob moved and Hardy ate the mat.

RVD climbed up top for a 450 splash, but Hardy moved. Hardy nailed a DDT, but RVD kicked out in-time. Hardy followed with a Twist of Fate that turned into sort of a flip-over neckbreaker, and it was good for the pin and the win. Post-match: Tenay covered for this being very short for a TNA main event by focusing on the "incredible pace" to the match.

WINNER: Hardy at 3:47; Hardy gets 7 points. Not enough time to establish a flow in another quick BFG Series match.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2012, 02:36 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-21-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_62694.shtml)

1 - EZEKIEL JACKSON vs. HUNICO (w/Camacho)

Hunico runs into the ropes from Jackson early on, then using craftiness for an early attack. Jackson's power can't overcome Hunico's speed, and Camacho lends a hand behind the ref's back. Hunico keeps Jackson grounded for a period of time. Jackson finally makes a comeback with a belly-to-back suplex, and proceeds to attack. Hunico whiffs on a Swanton Bomb, but a distraction from Camacho lets him knock Jackson down again and land the Swanton Bomb for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 5:00. Decent showcase for Hunico, who did the best he could with what he had. I much prefer to see him against other cruiserweights, though.

2 - TYSON KIDD & JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. CURT HAWKINS & TYLER REKS - Tag Team Match

Hawkins and Kidd start things, then Kidd and Gabriel show off some slick team moves, but Hawkins gets Gabriel to the corner. Kidd and Gabriel show off more moves on Reks. Hawkins has to pull Reks from the ring to save him from a Sharpshooter. Kidd holds the ropes open so Gabriel can land a suicide dive on the pair. Reks manages to drop Kidd on the ropes right before break.

Hawkins is controlling Kidd out of the break. Kidd stays isolated for a period, then Gabriel finally goes in and unleashes on Hawkins. Hawkins with his swinging sit out powerslam. Gabriel with a leaping Tornado DDT, but Reks breks up the cover. Kidd clears him out. Gabriel with a kid to Hawkins's head, then the Blockbuster/Hart Attack for the win.

WINNERS: Kidd & Gabriel in 8:30. Good showcase match to establish Kidd and Gabriel, and Reks and Hawkins did a good job playing crash dummies.

3 - ZACK RYDER vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre is angry before he even gets to the ring, and takes it out on Ryder. Ryder, wrestling in front of his hometown audience, makes a comeback and they battle back and forth. Ryder with a flip-dive over the top rope to McIntyre on the outside.

Ryder is battling McIntyre on the apron, but McIntyre sends him head-first into the ringpost. McIntyre mocks Ryder's "L.I." finger gesture and continues his assault. Ryder is struggling to get traction, but McIntyre keeps up competent offense. McIntyre tries a double knee drop from the second rope, but Ryder gets his knees up to turn the tide. Broski Boot and the crowd is playing along. McIntyre takes advantage of a ref break to flatten Ryder's nose. McIntyre wants a superplex, but Ryder crotches him, then lands a Rough Ryder from the second rope. The hometown crowd goes nuts. Nice shot of Mr. Ryder in the crowd.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 10:15. Don't ever bet against Ryder in the Nassau Colliseum, but I can imagine the fans were upset that he wasn't on Raw. Good match. McIntyre is very underutilized, and Ryder has a lot going for him, too.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 25 2012, 02:39 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-22-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62714.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

Big Show comes out and says he's looking out only for himself. Brodus Clay comes out and attacks Show only to get clipped from behind by Otunga. Big Show on Clay happens after that.

1 -- RYBACK vs. FRANK VENEZIA & JARED WACHTLER -- handicap match

Ryback waited a few moments before beginning his assault by picking apart the "stupid" men one-by-one. One of the individuals attempted a huracanrana, but Ryback easily turned it into powerbomb. Ryback then powerbombed victim #1 on top of victim #2. Ryback decided to take it home with a double Samoan Drop for the pin and the win. Cue up the crowd pop before Ryback demanded to be fed more. The crowd followed along with his "Feed me more" chant as the announcers made food references.

WINNER: Ryback at 1:44.

2 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

Del Rio was the aggressor early on as Cole complained about Foley sending Del Rio down the ladder of World Title contenders after he missed his title match at No Way Out due to concussion. Christian then cleared Del Rio to the floor before landing a plancha. Smackdown went to break with both men selling on the floor.

Back from break, Mathews said Del Rio is "firmly in control" following action during the break. Del Rio was working over Christian's left shoulder, looking to set up for the cross arm-breaker. Del Rio continued the assault before Christian crawled to the ropes for a reprieve. Del Rio took too long climbing the ropes moments later, which allowed Christian to catch him with a top-rope huracanrana for a nearfall. Christian followed with a slap to the face, then went up top for a cross-body, but Del Rio avoided. Del Rio tried to follow with an enziguiri, but Christian ducked, then hit a Tornado DDT for a two count. Christian followed with a second-rope missile dropkick for a two count as Ricardo freaked out ringside.

Christian called for the end and teased the Killswitch, but Del Rio slipped out and dropped Christian with an arm-snap for a two count. Del Rio tried to follow with a second-rope sentaun, but Christian avoided. The IC champ wanted the Spear next, but Del Rio intercepted with a superkick. Del Rio wanted the breaker, but Christian countered into a pendulum kick. Ricardo tried to get involved as Christian climbed up top, but Christian scared him away. The distraction allowed Del Rio to hit an enziguiri, then Del Rio flowed into the cross arm-breaker for a tap-out win.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 10:57. Very good TV match with some nice counters and reversals building to the finish. One of Del Rio's better matches in some time, and Christian helped bring it out of him. (**1/2)

Post-match: Mathews said it's only a matter of time before Del Rio is #1 contender to the World Title again. Cody Rhodes then hit the ringside area and stormed the ring to attack Christian from behind. Rhodes took advantage of Del Rio's work by slapping on an armbar, but Christian powered to his feet, only to take a knee to the gut. Rhodes then rammed Christian into the ringpost before shouting down at him that he's stealing his time. "I am Smackdown!" Rhodes shouted before his music played.

3 -- KANE vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Bryan knocked Kane to the outside early on as Cole debated with Booker whether Bryan is to blame for A.J. going crazy because he may have just wanted to move on, which happens in relationships. Back in the ring, Bryan continued to work on Kane as A.J. prepared to strike the ringbell during nearfalls, which is good timekeeping because a match could end at any time. Bryan followed with Yes! kicks before Kane caught his leg to block a fourth attempt. Bryan sidestepped Kane in the corner, though, and nailed a kick to the gut. Bryan tried a top-rope move, but they had a miscommunication on whether Kane should counter. They reset the spot on the other side of the ring and Bryan landed a missile dropkick for a nearfall.

Kane suddenly came back with strikes before nailing a big boot off the ropes. A.J. smiled as momentum shifted to Kane, who called for the chokeslam, but Bryan slipped out and cut off Kane at the knees. Bryan followed with a kick strike to the head for a two count. He then went up top and attempted a diving headbutt, but Kane grabbed him around the throat to block. Kane attempted a chokeslam, but Bryan countered into a submission hold. Kane tried to escape, but Bryan maintained the hold. Kane began to fade as Bryan shouted at him to tap out.

Bryan then flowed into the Yes! Lock center-ring. Kane waved his arm in the air as Bryan maintained the hold. Kane sort of began swimming with his arm, almost as if he were tapping, and A.J. accidentally (or not?) rang the bell. The ref waved off the finish, but Bryan thought he won. Bryan then ran into a chokeslam, and Kane made a cover for the win, which drew the bell from A.J. Afterward, Cole said it appears A.J. accidentally rang the bell for Bryan, Mathews said he's not sure it was an accident, and Booker said he doesn't know what's going on. A.J. then skipped off, content with her work for the evening, as Kane acted perplexed in the ring.

WINNER: Kane at 7:18. Another solid TV match. Kane and Bryan work well together, which is expected when it's almost impossible for Bryan to have a bad match. (**)

4 -- ZACK RYDER vs. HEATH SLATER

Cole heeled on Ryder for over-tanning as Booker plugged his YouTube program. Ryder dominated early on as Cole annoyed Booker by trying to sing like a sick bird. Slater came back with a corner drop before arguing with the ref. The argument allowed Ryder to come back with a Rough Ryder, much to Foley's approval ringside, and it was good for the win. Post-match: Foley hit the ring to celebrate with Ryder.

WINNER: Ryder at 1:13.

5 -- THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. PRIME TIME PLAYERS (TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG w/AW)

The Usos dominated Young early on as AW sold concern ringside. D-Young eventually made it to the corner to bring in Titus, who went to work on the Usos with power offense. "Millions of dollars. Whatcha gonna do?!" he shouted toward the crowd. The action broke down moments later before Uso came back with a Samoan Drop on Titus. AW then hopped on the ring apron to distract the ref, allowing the PTP'ers to gain an unfair advantage. Titus then hit his Clash of Titus finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: PTP at 3:14.

6 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) -- non-title match

Ziggler "showed off" early on as Booker noted Ziggler's stock went up Sunday night at No Way Out even in defeat to Sheamus. Ziggler tried a dropkick, but Sheamus brushed him off, then kind of dropped Ziggler on his neck with a running power move. After the awkward-looking exchange, Sheamus grabbed an armbar as Vickie shouted into the ring. Ziggler then low-bridged Sheamus, who fell to the outside, before nailing a dropkick through the ropes. Ziggler tried to follow up with a running splash off the apron, but Sheamus caught Ziggler in mid-air and overhead-slammed Ziggler right into the barricade. Big impact match for Sheamus heading to break.

Back from break, Ziggler had regained momentum during the break and was wearing down Sheamus in the ring. Sheamus came back with back-body drop sending Ziggler flying over the top rope to go splat on the floor. Sheamus then blasted Ziggler into the ring steps as Vickie screamed at him. Sheamus got her to back down, but Sheamus turned around to find a flying a Fameasser from Ziggler that sent Sheamus nose-first into the floor.

Back in the ring, Ziggler hit a neckbreaker, but Sheamus kicked out in time. Ziggler continued the assault before getting Mathews excited with a rear naked choke that looked like a sleeperhold. The majority of the crowd tried to rally behind Sheamus, who continued to take a beating from Ziggler. Sheamus then built some momentum at 9:30 before teasing the White Noise, but Ziggler countered into a roll-up for a two count. Ziggler then sprung on Sheamus with a big DDT for a two count.

Sheamus came back with a flying shoulder tackle off the top rope after clearing Ziggler to the mat. The World champ wanted more, but Ziggler crawled away to the ring apron looking for a breather. Sheamus took advantage with ten big forearm strikes to the chest as Vickie sold being unable to watch. Back in the ring, Ziggler nailed Sheamus with a knee lift, but then ran right into the Brogue Kick from Sheamus out of nowhere. Sheamus made the cover for the win, prompting Vickie to sell near-tears following another frustrating loss for her client.

Post-match: They replayed Sheamus delivering the BK out of nowhere for the finish. Mathews noted the Brogue Kick is always ready to go no matter what point during a match. Sheamus celebrated with fans ringside as Smackdown signed off with Sheamus standing tall.

WINNER: Sheamus at 12:26. Another really good TV match with a nice, clean finish. Ziggler is almost too good at what he does as a heel, and Sheamus continues to look like a dominant World champ. WWE didn't leave anything for next week, though, with no story development concerning the World Title.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 27 2012, 02:23 pm
WWE RAW Results: 6-25-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_62762.shtml). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. KANE -- non-title three-way elimination match

Bryan went after Kane's left knee, then Punk joined in the attack on the big man. Bryan then tried a quick roll-up on Punk for a two count, drawing a big smile from Bryan. With Kane on the outside, Bryan and Punk exchanged holds in the ring before they cut to a shot of A.J. watching the match on a backstage monitor. Punk then took a page from Super Dragon with a Curb Stomp on Bryan for a two count. Punk then tried to fly through the ropes on Kane, but Kane popped him with a fist. Kane took control of the action leading to break.

Back from break, Kane landed body-shots on Punk before stacking up Punk and Bryan in the corner for a big corner splash. They followed with a three-man Tower of Doom spot that turned into Bryan countering the Doomsday Device into a roll-up on Punk for a two count. All three men found themselves on the mat moments later following a double suplex spot. 6:36 into the match, Cole mentioned that ol' WWE Title, saying if Bryan or Kane wins, he could be next in-line for a title shot. Punk then cleared Kane to the floor before launching Bryan over the top rope onto Kane. Punk followed with a suicide dive onto both men ringside.

Back in the ring, Punk tried a top-rope move, but Bryan countered into an arm submission, but Punk countered into a catapult sending Bryan crashing into Kane. Punk then called for the GTS on Bryan, but Kane kicked Punk in the face to break that up. Kane made a cover on Punk, but the champ kicked out. Kane followed with a sidewalk slam on Punk, but another kick-out by the champ. Kane followed with a top-rope clothesline on Punk, then called for a chokeslam, but A.J.'s music played.

A.J., dressed normally, skipped down to ringside, drawing Kane's ire. A.J. skipped right back to the stage area, though, allowing Punk to recover and smash Kane with the GTS. Punk then covered Kane for an elimination at 9:57. Moments later, Bryan smashed Punk in the head with a swift kick. Bryan then covered Punk for the win. Cue up the "Yes!" celebration from Bryan after pinning the champ.

WINNER: Bryan at 10:10. Solid opening match potentially setting up Punk vs. Bryan in a title re-match. (**1/4)

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. BIG SHOW

The two big men collided mid-ring, then Clay landed some early offense. But, Show went after Clay's injured knee from David Otunga's recent sneak attacks. Show followed up by wrapping Brodus's knee around the ringpost, drawing concern from the dancers ringside. Ref Charles Robinson checked on Clay, who refused to give up. Show then climbed to the second rope and landed a drop to the chest. The crowd booed Show, who encouraged them to bring it louder.

Show slowly went for the KO Punch, but Brodus slipped out and headbutted Show in the gut. Show bounced off the ropes into Clay's arms for a potential bodyslam, but Show's weight was too much and Show fell on top of Clay. Show with the cover for the win, ending Clay's winning streak. Afterward, a content Big Show slowly left the ring as Clay sold pain and frustration. The ringside medic checked on Clay to conclude the segment.

WINNER: Show at 2:33. It will be interesting to see if this leads to Clay off TV to sell the injury or simply coming back stronger next week looking for revenge on Show and Otunga following the loss.

3 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. JACK SWAGGER -- U.S. Title match

Cole said Swagger had do something unbecoming for Vickie to receive this U.S. Title shot. Santino went for a quick win early on, but Swagger cut him off and went on a sustained attack. Santino then pulled the Cobra, but Swagger avoided. Santino hit a DDT moments later, then dropped Swagger with the Cobra strike for the pin and the win. Cole said Swagger's poor streak continues.

WINNER: Santino at 2:35 to retain the U.S. Title.

4 -- PSYCHO SID vs. HEATH SLATER

Sid called for cheers before the bell sounded, then began to dismantle Slater. Slater tried to make a comeback going after Sid's left knee before landing elbows to the back of the head. Slater tried to build momentum coming off the ropes, but Sid clotheslined him to the mat. Sid landed a big leg drop, then called for the powerbomb. He delivered it center-ring, then bent down to put a hand on Slater's chest for the win. Post-match, Sid crawled toward the ringside camera as Lawler noted he's "a little older," but still psycho.

WINNER: Sid at 1:30. Not as much of a nostalgic reaction for Vader, as a good portion of the Cena Era audience didn't know who he is.

5 -- ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- #1 contender match -- contract on a pole

Ziggler quickly tried to climb the pole to retrieve the contract, but Del Rio cut him off. Del Rio then decked Ziggler and slowly made his way toward the contract, but Ziggler pulled him down. The crowd was quiet with no rooting interest, then the vocal males picked up a light "Let's Go Ziggler" chant. Ziggler tried the Zig-Zag, but Del Rio blocked. They took the battle toward the pole as Lawler noted he likes this match watching them beat each other up. Ziggler hopped on Del Rio's shoulders trying to climb toward the contract, but Del Rio blocked, then sort of hit a fallaway slam that seemed to affect both men. They reset with another corner battle, then the contract fell to the mat.

The two men mad-scrambled toward the contract with a fumble situation ensuing. Neither man controlled the contract for a full second, then they knocked each other down. Ricardo tried to grab the contract, but Ziggler kicked it to the outside. Del Rio and Ziggler locked eyes for a moment, then tried to scramble to the outside, but pulled each other away from ringside. This continued on before the two men spilled to the opposite side of the floor.

Suddenly, Sheamus's music played to bring out Sheamus telling the "ladies" they don't need to keep fighting. Sheamus said he just spoke to Vickie, who told him that it will be a triple threat match for the World Title. But, before they get their hopes up, this match won't be about showing off or destiny, but about him kicking both their arses this Friday night. Sheamus's music played to apparently this. Lawler wondered why Sheamus is happy about this, and Cole said it's because he likes to fight.

WINNER: Nothing at 5:40 when the segment ended. What a trainwreck disaster from the booking department. But, beyond the actual match, good synergy promoting a World Title match four days later on Smackdown.

6 -- DIVAS SUMMERTIME BATTLE ROYAL

Back live, 11 Divas were assembled in the ring before "Kris Jenner" Vickie Guerrero interrupted and inserted herself into the match. The other Divas then ganged up on her to begin the battle royal. Where's Gail Kim to skip out early? After Divas started clearing out, it came down to Vickie and A.J., who avoided elimination, then eliminated Vickie. A.J. did Bryan's "Yes!" celebration to continue her mind games story.

WINNER: A.J. at 2:10.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. CHRIS JERICHO

As Cena and Jericho felt each other out, the announcers recapped Cena's accomplishments during his 10-year run in WWE and Jericho's career highlights. Jericho slapped Cena, who retaliated with a punch that sent Jericho to the outside to stall for time. They cut to break one minute into the main event.

Back from break, Jericho was in control of the action with a side headlock mid-ring. Cena powered to his feet as Cole recapped the news on tonight's show. Cena broke free of the headlock, but Jericho dropkicked him to maintain control. The announcers recapped Cena and Jericho in the Raw MITB ladder match before Lawler claimed every MITB winner has gone on to become WWE champ. Cole corrected him that the person who has cashed in MITB has become champ every time. Cole also noted Cena wants to get back in the WWE Title picture after not being champ for a year.

At the top of the hour, Jericho kicked Cena to the mat to maintain control. Cole reset the show, focusing on A.J. wreaking havoc on the show, Big Show on a rampage again, and the four participants in the Raw MITB ladder match. Cena then made his comeback with a shoulder tackle, then sit-out slam to set up the Five Knuckle Shuffle, which Jericho blocked with a Walls of Jericho tease. Cena then teased the AA, but Jericho slipped out. Cena came back with the finish to the Shuffle.

Suddenly, Big Show's music played to bring out a distraction for Cena. Cole reminded viewers that Show claimed to be moving on from Cena. Back in the ring, Jericho trapped Cena in the Walls of Jericho center-ring. Show then slipped into the ring and dropped a leg across Cena to cause a DQ. Jericho sold frustration losing the match, but Show asked him if he wants some of this. After the brief Jeri-Show reunion, Jericho backed down, then gave Show the ring to have at it.

WINNER: Cena via DQ at 8:18. Not much given away with most of the match occurring during the commercial.

Post-match: Show grappled Cena and super-chokeslammed him center-ring. Cena flopped over onto his stomach to sell the effects as Show stared into the crowd. Show followed with a modified Camel Clutch - the Colossal Clutch, as described by Cole. Cena's face turned purple as he sold the effects. Lawler called for someone to do something about Show, but decided no one can stop Show. Show released the hold as Raw went off the air four minutes past the top of the hour.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 02 2012, 02:26 am
R.O.H. Best in the World iPPV Results: 6-24-12

Summary courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to results). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_62787.shtml)

(1) Briscoes beat Guardians of Truth. The match suffered big-time because of loose ropes. The hardest working ring crew member spent all match sneaking around the ring tightening the ropes when he could, while being heckled by the crowd. Huge reaction for Briscoes, though. Heavy "man up" chants, but a dud match.

(2) Homicide beat Eddie Edwards. Good match. The crowd was 70/30 in favor of hometown boy Homicide, but I was behind my Mass. guy Eddie. Big pop for his Cop Killa finish.

(3) Adam Cole beat Kyle O'Reilly in a Hybrid Rules match. The crowd was all over this match in the worst way, until Cole got opened up hard-way, then they really picked it up and were all about the match. Huge "This is awesome" chants. The fans were solidly behind Cole and the high-impact style from both men down the stretch.

(4) Michael Elgin beat Fit Finlay. The match was slow and got a lot of "boring" chants. A decent story was told with the right guy going over, but the crowd was ready for this one to end after about ten minutes.

(5) Mike Mondo beat Mike Bennett. Good heat for Bennett and Maria, and good reactions for Mondo, even though he wasn't the smoothest on the mic. What was up with his haircut, though?

(6) ROH TV champion Roderick Strong beat Jay Lethal and Tomasso Ciampa in a three-way match to retain the TV Title. Great three-way dance, and each of the guys had their fans. The crowd loved the finishing sequences Roddy used, too. He is great. The crowd was hot all match.

(7) All Night Express (Rhett Titus & Kenny King) beat ROH tag champions Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin to capture the ROH Tag Titles. The fans were solidly behind ANX. Rhett's girlfriend was in the seat behind me and she and her friends were very vocal for Rhett and Kenny as well. Huge pop on the title change, and massive go-away heat with scattered "respectful applause" for WGTT. Big-time "F--- you Charlie" chants, though.

Steve Corino got a big reaction and a large "ECW" chant when he came out for the main event. Davey Richards came out to a lot of boos and slight respectful applause. There was a big reaction for Kevin Steen.
 

(8) ROH World champion Kevin Steen beat Davey Richards to retain the ROH World Title. Awesome match with great weapon and table spots. The crowd ate it up! Also, huge reactions for the package piledrivers and three count. Also of note, the crowd popped huge twice and broke out with the loudest "Yes!" chants I've ever heard live when Davey spin-kicked ref Todd Sinclair and also when Steen hit the other ref with the package piledriver. Awesome reaction.

After the match, Steen tried so hard to turn the crowd against him and establish himself as a real heel, but the crowd wouldn't comply. He called us hypocrites, which led to "Yes!" chants. He disparaged the names of C.M. Punk and Daniel Bryan, but still no boos. He mentioned how the fans have turned on every World champion since Nigel McGuinness (which is very true, except maybe Nigel not as much), but said that in order for that to happen or matter, he would have to "give a s--- about us" first. He concluded with something about he, Jacobs, and Corino killing ROH and finished with "F--- New York City!" which elicited a large pop from the Steen-happy crowd.

Overall, I think ROH just needs to accept that he's going to be cheered as the badass anti-authority figure no matter how hard they make him try to be an old=school heel. I don't know if Jim Cornette can realize that or not, but here's hoping so.

Overall, an average card with some super-intense and fun moments. Some matches put the crowd to sleep and others had the fans rabid, but too much was just meh that it couldn't all be overshadowed by the good.

Also of note, they announced that this year's Final Battle event will take place in the Hammerstein Ballroom on December 16 at 2:00 p.m. Odd ring time, in my opinion.

Biggest Pops:

- Steen
- ANX
- (Cole-O'Riley down the stretch)
- Briscoes

Biggest Heat:

- Charlie Haas (and Shelton Benjamin)
- Mike Bennett
- Davey Richards
- Kyle O'Riley
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 02 2012, 02:27 am
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 6-28-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_62763.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- MR. ANDERSON vs. ROB VAN DAM -- BFG Series match

Anderson and Van Dam exchanged quick pin attempts early on before coming to a babyface vs. babyface stalemate. That was short-lived when Anderson went for a handshake, then popped RVD in the jaw with a right hand strike. RVD came back with a drop toehold into a Muta Lock looking to secure a submission victory, but Anderson reached the bottom rope for a break. RVD went for another mat submission as Tenay plugged another BFG Series match tonight - Samoa Joe vs. Bully Ray.

RVD and Anderson traded blows at 4:00 before RVD executed a Northern Lights suplex for a nearfall. RVD followed with a cartwheel into a back-flip press for another nearfall. RVD tried to finish off Anderson with a split-legged moonsault, but Anderson blocked with knees to the gut for a two count. Anderson followed with a neckbreaker for another nearfall. Anderson then tried a move out of the fireman's carry, but RVD countered into a crucifix pin for the three count.

WINNER: RVD at 5:53; RVD gets 7 points to get his first points of the Series. Up and down match. Some good sequences, then awkward exchanges. The mat-based wrestling was refreshing for an RVD and Anderson match, though.

2 -- SONJAY DUTT vs. RUBIX -- X Division Title tournament qualifying match

Close nearfall at 1:50 when Dutt spring-boarded into a splash. Dutt then measured Rubix for a neckbreaker, but Rubix came back with an enziguiri into a bridge suplex for a two count. Dutt came back with a spike DDT for coming off the top with a moonsault into a double foot stomp. Unique spot. Dutt with the pin for the win. After the match, Christy Hemme interviewed Dutt about being back in the Impact Zone. Dutt said he's here for one thing only: become X Division champion for the first time.

WINNER: Dutt at 3:13. Good to see Dutt back in TNA. But, not enough time to showcase Jigsaw if they plan to use him beyond this one booking.

3 -- SAMOA JOE vs. BULLY RAY -- BFG Series match

Once the bell sounded, Ray argued with ref Earl Hebner before trash-talking Joe. Ray claimed Joe is afraid of him, so Joe backed Bully all the way to the corner. Ray continued to duck under the ropes to avoid locking up, drawing boos. Ray did it a third time as Tenay noted the BFG PPV location will be revealed next week on Impact. Joe eventually got his hands on Ray for a side headlock. The two bulls collided mid-ring before Ray knocked down Joe with a back elbow. Joe came back with left hand jabs before Ray raked the eyes. Ray followed with a big suplex taking Joe to the mat for a two count. At 3:15, TNA cut to break with Ray in control.

Back live, Joe blasted away at Ray with corner blows before running into a discus clothesline from Bully. Joe sold on the mat before Ray blasted him across the chest with multiple chops to the chest. Joe, fired up, came back with forearm blows before they double clotheslined center-ring. Ray tried to drape an arm across Joe to steal a pin, but Joe kicked out. Tenay noted going into this match that he thought each man's tempers (he did not refer to Joe as having a Samoan temper) could be a factor in this match. Ray continued the wear-down process, remaining one step ahead of Joe.

Ray stalked Joe in the corner, then landed more offense to Joe's injured left shoulder. Tenay noted Ray's strategy is evident trying to avoid submission moves from Joe. The match passed the old 10-minute time limit with Joe on the floor trying to get some feeling back in his arm. Back in the ring, Ray went for a running splash, but Joe rolled out of the way. Joe then landed an atomic drop into a big boot to the face into a back-splash for a close two count.

Next, Joe tried more jabs, but Ray ducked a third blow and hit Rock Bottom for a close two count. Ray then tried a flying splash from the second rope, but Joe moved and Ray rolled to the outside. On the floor, Ray blasted Joe with a running boot to the face to deck him. Ray then entered the ring to try to get a count-out. But, suddenly, Joseph Park stomped down from the backstage area to the ring. Park stood on the ring apron, then slapped Ray across the face. Suddenly, Joe snuck in behind Ray and applied a rear-naked choke for a tap-out victory.

WINNER: Joe at 12:59 to receive 10 points; Joe up to 27 points. Nice big-man match.

4 -- MASON ANDREWS vs. RASHAD CAMERON

Late in the match, Rashad missed a top-rope moonsault, then accepted a kick to the chest. Scorpio built some momentum, then delivered a cross-body for a two count. Cameron then knocked Scorpio to the outside before landing a big flip-dive on the outside. Back in the ring, Cameron measured Scorpio for a top-rope move, but Scorpio flew onto the top turnbuckle for a body scissors press for a nearfall. Scorpio then ate the corner turnbuckle with a dropkick to the back before Cameron nailed Paydirt for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Christy Hemme asked Rashad how it feels to advance to Destination X. Cameron said everyone out there in TV Land is looking at the next X Division champion. He said the Impact Zone just witnessed the beginning of the Rashad Cameron Movement.

WINNER: Cameron at 4:06. Scorpio looked a bit nervous and uncomfortable early on before settling into a good final few minutes with Cameron, who has an impressive look and carries himself like a star. Solid action.

5 -- TNA tag champions A.J. STYLES & KURT ANGLE vs. DANIELS & KAZARIAN -- TNA Tag Title match

Kaz said he would start the match, then Styles grabbed him around the throat to start the match. Styles kicked Kaz in the back before throwing him into the tag champ's corner to tag in Angle. For some reason, the crowd started a slow-clap despite the face champs in control. Daniels then tagged in and Angle blasted him in the corner before Daniels caught him on the other side of the ring. Daniels tried to bring in Kaz for offense, but Kaz acted uninterested. So, Daniels tagged himself back into the match. Styles and Daniels took their fight to the outside, where Styles slammed Daniels across the ring apron in front of Dixie and Claire. Daniels, frustrated, begged Kaz to help him, but Kaz continued to act disinterested.

Back live, Daniels had Styles in a side headlock trying to wear down one-half of the tag champs. Daniels then dropped Styles with an STO for a two count. Meanwhile, Tenay recapped Storm vs. Hardy next week on Impact. Angle then made a tag into the match, so Daniels bailed to the outside. Kaz tried to put up a valiant effort against Angle, but Angle nailed him with three German Suplexes. Angle dropped the straps, then dropped Daniels with three Germans. Angle then tried an Angle Slam, but Kaz countered into a modified Ace Crusher for a close nearfall.

Kaz wanted Fade to Black, but Angle rolled into the anklelock. Kaz fought off, then Styles tagged in for Angle and smashed Kaz, who tagged out to Daniels. Styles smashed Daniels, then both men collided mid-ring. Breather time with all four men on the mat followinf the sequence. After a reset, the ref was bumped to the floor. With the ref down, Daniels retrieved a chair and tried to smash Styles, but Kaz grabbed the chair from Daniels. After Styles dropped Daniels with a Pele Kick, Kaz flipped off Daniels, then left the ring. Styles grappled Daniels for the Clash, but Kaz re-entered the ring with chair in-hand and cracked it across Styles. Well, kind of. Kaz then dragged the ref into the ring and he counted to three, rendering new tag champs.

WINNERS: Daniels & Kaz at 11:47 to capture the Tag Titles.

Sidenote on musical chairs...er...names of wrestlers:

Rubix = Chikara/ROH's Jigsaw.
Rashad Cameron = CWZ's Sabian (Or BLK Jeez if you prefer).
Mason Andres = PWG's Scorpio Sky.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 02 2012, 02:30 am
WWE Superstars Results: 6-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_62902.shtml)

1 - WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. MICHAEL MCGILLICUTTY

Well, this match answers one of my questions from the New NXT - main roster talent like McGillicutty is being used to supplement New NXT, not to be a place for them to permanently reside.

McGillcutty impresses Kingston with his power early on, and Kingston lets him know it with a smile. Kofi teaches McGillicutty a lesson with his speed. Kingston pulls off a crazy spot bouncing back-first on the ropes and catching McGillicutty around the neck with his legs on the rebound, and smoothly transitioning into a head scissors takedown. McGillicutty takes control and they head to break.

Kingston is fighting out of a resthold, but takes a big back body drop. McGillicutty continues to dominate, but he jaws at the crowd, letting Kingston finally regain control. Kingston looks like he wants a Boom Drop, but McGillcutty Army-crawls to the apron. Big springboard crossbody gets Kingston a nearfall. He finally gets the Boom Drop and calls for the Trouble in Paradise. McGillcutty moves, and then counters an SOS attempt. McGillicutty counters a top rope move with a dropkick. McGillicutty wants the Turning Heads neckbreaker, but is forced to duck the Trouble in Paradise instead, but a moment later he's eating Kingston's foot for the loss.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston in 10:15. There was a time not long ago when Michael McGillicutty's music signaled a bathroom break for me; I now consider his matches to be "must see." It's a combination of his in-ring improving very rapidly (I am convinced that William Regal spent some time working with him based on some of the moves he's picked up), and being paired against opponents like Kofi Kingston and Tyson Kidd. Based on what was seen on NXT last season, I would really like to see McGillicutty and Johnny Curtis chase the Tag Titles; that would produce some excellent matches and superb promos and backstage segments.

2 - EPICO (w/Primo and Rosa Mendes) vs. DARREN YOUNG (w/Titus O'Neil and AW)

AW's mic is still live. Epico takes it to Young as AW exhorts Young. Young makes a comeback on the apron. Young uses his power, but Epico reverses a suplex attempt with a lateral press for two. Young continues to wear away Epico. O'Neil interferes, allowing Young to hit the Gutcheck for the win.

WINNER: Darren Young in 4:20. AW's mic gimmick draws great heat, but it is incredibly distracting. Epico shined on his own. I really missed Epico and Primo, but I see that the time off from TV was to get the audience to forget that they are heels. It is kind of working, as Rosa's shimmying does get the males to root for them.

3 - THE USOS vs. HUNICO & CAMACHO - Tag Team match

The Usos have new outfits - baggy purple shorts and white basketball player style headbands. They have also cut their hair. I think this may be Camacho's first or second broadcasted match in WWE. By win/loss record, Hunico should probably be the #1 contender to a title right now, as he's been slowly accumulating wins on Superstars.

Jimmy and Hunico kick it off. Hunico shows off a bit, but Jimmy overpowers him. Jey comes in, but Hunico is able to get Camacho involved. Jey takes Camacho down. Jey gets isolated for a stretch. Back body drop lets Jimmy tag in, and he goes to work on Hunico. Camacho provides a distraction letting Hunico crotch Jimmy, then land a huracanrana into a pin. Camacho distracts the ref, letting the Usos hit Hunico with a flapjack into a superkick (sick combo by the way) for the win.

WINNERS: The Usos in 5:40. Fun match. Camacho did his part fine, and the other three delivered as expected. I love The Usos's new tag team finisher, and I hope to see them use it more.

Heath Slater delivers a promo about how everyone tries to steal his spotlight. Mid-promo, Kane's pyro hits and Slater jumps halfway to the next county. Slater looks dumbstruck as Kane comes to the ring. Slater has quickly become a master at creating instant heat, and his in-ring has come up too.

4 - KANE vs. HEATH SLATER

Kane dissects Slater, as expected. On commentary, Striker says that the Legends will come out every week and Slater will be involved with them. Slater gets a brief slurry of offense. He jumps into an uppercut and Kane continues the mauling. Top rope clothesline followed by a chokeslam ends the match.

WINNER: Kane in 3:15. Fine match to help establish Kane as a face (or and anti-heel, at the very least). Slater is at the point that Dolph Ziggler was a few years ago, a clear cut heel that can easily draw legit heat, who bumps nicely and takes losses well.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 02 2012, 02:32 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 6-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62913.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – A.J. vs. LAYLA

This match is a sensible follow-up to Raw, where A.J. won the Battle Royal. Layla has dropped the LayCool theme and I think she has a remixed version of Tiffany’s song. A quick handshake and the match was underway. Headlock take-over by Layla, then a head-scissors by A.J. Cole again chided Booker for not watching Raw and not knowing Kane called A.J. crazy, to which Booker just laughed. Shoulder knock-down by Layla, and a roll-through got her a two-count. Arm-bar by the WWE Divas Champion. Drop toe-hold by A.J., then a dropkick. Layla fired back with a face-plant using the hair. Spinning kick by A.J. caught Layla coming off the ropes. Daniel Bryan’s music hit and he walked out yelling “Yes!” all the way to ringside and around. Sounds like post-production has added some boos because most of the crowd was chanting along with him. Layla rolled up a distracted A.J. for the win.

WINNER: Layla, at 3:33. I think a lot of the crowd likes A.J., so I’m not sure putting a tepid babyface like Layla in there helps Layla all that much. Then again, I don’t think they were in the business of helping Layla out in this situation.

2 – ZACK RYDER vs. DAMIEN SANDOW - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

This is also a follow-up from their backstage confrontation last week when Mick Foley was guest GM. Flapjack by Ryder, but Sandow took out a knee and stomped away at him in the corner. Side Russian leg-sweep, then some posing from Sandow. He dropped an elbow for two. Ryder fought back with boots and hit a flying dropkick off the middle-rope. Headbutt, then Ryder with a Broski Boot. “This is it!” shouted Booker as Ryder set up for the Rough Ryder. Sandow dodged the move and connected on his neck-breaker finish for the win.

WINNER: Sandow, at 2:25. WWE must be high on Sandow, and rightly so, to put him in the MITB match.

3 – TYSON KIDD vs. JACK SWAGGER - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

The announcers made a big deal saying Kidd acknowledged this was the most important match in his career. He didn’t get an entrance for this one. Rear waist-lock, but Kidd rolled through for a one-count. Another unique roll-up using his legs and Swagger was already frustrated. Cole claimed Kidd needs to separate himself from the Hart Legacy, which will always hold him down. Back in, Swagger took control. He worked the arm of Kidd, and just flipped him over with it. Knee-lift, but Kidd grabbed the leg to roll him up for two. Corner charge by Swagger, then a beal to the middle of the ring. Vader bomb for two at 2:28. Kidd planted Swagger with a DDT out of nowhere. He couldn’t really capitalize though. Back on his feet, he did hit some kicks to the legs and chest of Swagger. Back elbow by Kidd, but he climbed Swagger’s shoulders and was sent face-first into the mat. Kidd broke free of the ankle-lock and kicked Swagger in the side of the head. Blockbuster off the top for the win.

WINNER: Kidd, at 4:25. Now that’s an upset, despite the way Swagger has been booked. Match told a good story, but I figured this would be a prime opportunity for Swagger to get back on the upswing. As much as I think Swagger is terribly underutilized, I’m not going to complain about Kidd getting this chance.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & CHRISTIAN vs. DAVID OTUNGA & CODY RHODES - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Marella brought Rhodes over to the babyface corner, where Christian tagged in and worked the arm of Rhodes. Knee-lift turned the tide, then Rhodes hit a front suplex for two at :59. Otunga came in and bodyslammed Christian, then ran him over with a low shoulder tackle. The heels kept Christian at bay and Rhodes worked Christian down on the mat. Cole talked about the live Great American Bash Smackdown on Tuesday night, and how Cody’s father came up with the GAB name. Booker reminisced about meeting Wahoo McDaniel at one of the shows in WCW. Santino made the hot tag and took the fight to Otunga. He brought out the Cobra and it struck Otunga. But Rhodes pulled Otunga out of the ring before a cover. Rhodes poked Santino in the eye while the ref was distracted by Christian. He threw Otunga back in the ring so Otunga could tag Rhodes. He still couldn’t finish Santino, but did throw the Cobra out of the ring. Otunga was back in and he elbowed Marella down then elbowdropped him. “If this was a bodybuilding competition, Otunga would be champion,” said Booker. Back suplex by Santino evened things up. He crawled over and tagged Christian. Rhodes came in as well, but Christian got the better of the exchange. Inverted DDT by Christian, then he set up for the Spear. Otunga gabbed Christian’s leg and Rhodes made the tag. An errant right hand found Rhodes instead of Christian. Marella was sent out of the ring (he was going after Rhodes), but Otunga fell victim to the Spear.

WINNERS: Christian and Marella, at 6:16. Good to have the Intercontinental and United States champions in the MITB match, which helps the prestige of the belts and those holding them.

5 – DAN BARONE & BRENDAN BURKE vs. RYBACK – 2-ON-1 HANDICAP MATCH

The jobbers did some rhyming rap that stunk. Barone was slammed, so Burke tried to run away. Ryback kicked him down outside the ring. I think they did that with a previous set of jobbers too. Barone was pulled out of the ring and back in, Burke kicked at Ryback, to no effect. Barone climbed on Ryback’s back and succumbed to the backpack stunner. Hard powerbomb to Burke, and a clothesline to Barone. Double finish signaled the end.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:50. Another week, another squash.

6 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. TENSAI - WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Sakamoto still accompanied Tensai to the ring. Tensai powered Gabriel over the top rope at :21. Cole said Cody Rhodes is filing an official protest over what happened in the tag match, saying he didn’t lose the match. Tensai hammered away on the back of Gabriel’s skull. Double underhook suplex for a two-count by Tensai. Bearhug by Tensai, but Gabriel broke free and hit a jaw-breaker. Gabriel attempted a roll-up but Tensai picked him off the mat. Kick to the back of the head wobbled Tensai. Springboard dropkick by Gabriel took Tensai off his feet for the first time at 2:10. Springboard moonsault for two. More kicks by Gabriel, though they didn’t seem to have much effect. Tensai caught Gabriel coming off the middle rope and planted him with a two-handed chokeslam. Back splash for the win.

WINNER: Tensai, at 2:47. Gabriel would’ve been fun, but Tensai certainly gives the match a different dynamic.

7 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. SHEAMUS – TRIPLE-THREAT MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Sheamus came out firing to start, getting the better of both men early on. Del Rio finally turned the tide with a single-arm DDT. Ziggler low-bridged Sheamus out of the ring and worked over Del Rio out there as well. He bounced Del Rio’s head off the steel steps, and Cole connected that with Del Rio’s recent concussion. Del Rio missed a corner splash and Ziggler got a two-count at 3:17. Both Ziggler and Del Rio were stuck on the middle rope until Del Rio went tumbling to ringside. Sheamus got Ziggler up on his shoulders and landed an electric chair. Sheamus has been holding his wrist an awful lot. They went to break at 4:23.

Back at 8:04 of the match. Del Rio kicked Sheamus out of the ring, and both Del Rio and Ziggler went out there voluntarily to take the fight to the champ. Del Rio tossed Sheamus over the announce table. The heels went on the other side of the table to beat him down some more, so as to not let him recover at all. Back in the ring, Ziggler and Del Rio continued to team up. That is, until Del Rio went for a pin while Ziggler went to the top rope. That was enough to dissolve the working relationship. Ziggler and Del Rio went at it, exchanging right hands in the middle of the ring. Sheamus came off the turnbuckle and took them both out with a shoulderblock. Powerslam by Sheamus for two at 11:07. The heels traded opportunities breaking up pinfalls. White Noise by Sheamus on Ziggler. He didn’t go right for the pin or Brogue Kick, dawdling a little instead. That gave Del Rio the chance to get involved. Divorce court on the arm, but only a two-count. Sheamus countered the cross arm-breaker but ran shoulder-first into the ring post. Ziggler dropkicked the arm into the ring post on the outside. Enziguiri by Del Rio on Ziggler, knocking him off the apron. Cross arm-breaker applied and Sheamus couldn’t get to the rope, but Ziggler broke it up. Fameasser for two. Rodriguez got on the apron to cheer on his charge. Ziggler rammed Del Rio into Rodriguez, then rolled him up for two. Brogue Kick by Sheamus on Ziggler broke it up. He sent Del Rio out of the ring and pinned Ziggler.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 14:29.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2012, 12:58 pm
WWE NXT Results: 6-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_62883.shtml)

Jim Ross introduces Byron Saxton in the booth with him, and Seth Rollins comes out with a high-energy entrance. His opponent is Jiro, already in the ring.

1 - SETH ROLLINS vs. JIRO

Rollins, the former Tyler Black, has speed and technique to dominate Jiro. He wins rather quickly with the "Blackout," which is one-leg foot stomp to the spine of the opponent bending over (like a K2 leg drop).

WINNER: Seth Rollins in 2:00. Rollins has a ton of energy and speed. It's as if C.M. Punk and Tyson Kidd had a baby.

2 - JASON JORDAN vs. JINDER MAHAL

Mahal quickly dominates with knees to the gut against the ropes. Mahal dominates Jordan for a few minutes. Jordan dodges a kneedrop and starts an offensive flurry, but Mahal counters a dropkick and goes back to the attack. Running high knee and he slaps on the Camel Clutch for the submission win.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal via submission in 3:00. Mahal was fine, as always, but I don't know what it does for him to basically be kicked back to FCW with no change in character, gimmick, or match formula. He's refining and polishing a failed approach.

3 - AIDEN ENGLISH vs. LEO KRUGER

Kruger swats away dropkick attempts and launches a quick mugging on the mat. He wraps himself around English and latches on with a sleeper and English taps quick.

WINNER: Leo Kruger via submission in 1:30. Kruger has a unique, intriguing in-ring style where he stays close to his opponent and doesn't allow them any breathing room. For example, after a whip, he immediately landed the splash to follow-up. It really does come off like a predatory animal killing its prey. I like it, and I hope to see more of him in the future.

4 - THE USOS vs. THE ASCENSION

Jimmy Uso and Cameron to start. Jimmy shows off a bit, but shrugs off headbutts. Jey tags in and they double-team Cameron. Cameron throws Jey right through the ropes and tags in O'Brien. The Ascension isolates Jey for a stretch. Jey gets separation and there's a double tag. Jimmy with traditional Uso hot tag offense, but O'Brien breaks up a pin. The action breaks down and Jey and O'Brien brawl on the outside. The Ascension is able to hit their "Downcast" team finisher (Cameron lands a facebuster and O'Brien follows up with a flapjack) on Jimmy for the win.

WINNERS: The Ascension in 3:30. Too short for a team match. The Ascension is promising, but it depends on how far they try to take a potentially corny gimmick.

5 - RICHIE STEAMBOAT vs. RICK VICTOR

Steamboat shows off some great speed. The camera shows Ricky Steamboat ringside as Steamboat dominates the match. Victor can't get any traction. Victor finally lands a series of European uppercuts, but Steamboat quickly cuts him off. Lots of arm drags from Steamboat in this match. Steamboat lands the "Slingblade" finisher, which consists of him running at the opponent, hooking the opponent's neck, and throwing him to the mat.

WINNER: Richie Steamboat in 4:30. Steamboat has the raw talent, but he really needs to add some signature moves to stand out. His finisher looks very weak. Rick Victor seems to be the NXT version of Heath Slater, but he looks like a shorter version of Mason Ryan with a much less freakish build.

6 - DANTE DASH vs. ANTONIA CESARO (w/Aksana)

Cesaro immediately assaults Dash. Saxton and JR keep referencing his short time on Smackdown, but presenting it as "he's here to visit," not as if "he's not on Smackdown any more." Spinebuster from Cesaro sets up the "Neutralizer" - his inverted Glam Slam finisher - for the win.

WINNER: Antonio Cesaro in 1:30. Fun match while it lasted. Cesaro's in-ring skills are impressive, but I wish they had something useful for him.

7 - DERRICK BATEMAN vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Curtis slaps Bateman, then runs away. He tries to ambush Bateman on the way in, but Bateman dodges, slips in the ring, and hits a dropkick. Bateman showing lots of intensity. Curtis slips away from a corner dropkick, then starts to work Bateman's knee. Bateman slaps his way out of a leg lock, but Curtis presses the attack. Bateman rallies, but the knee is an issue. Bateman with the "DDD" (I think it's called), a kind of DDT, for the win.

WINNER: Derrick Bateman in 5:00. Fine match between these two. It really lacked the time to tell a story, though.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2012, 01:00 pm
WWE RAW Results: 7-2-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_62966.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- IC champion CHRISTIAN & U.S. champion SANTINO & WWE tag champions KOFI KINGSTON & R-TRUTH vs. DAVID OTUNGA & CODY RHODES & PRIME TIME PLAYERS (TITUS O'NEIL & DARREN YOUNG w/AW)

After a minute-and-a-half of basic action, the two teams had a stand-off ringside as Kofi sold on the mat. They cut to break.

Back live, Rhodes was stretching Kofi in the ring. Rhodes then tagged in Titus as the announcers listened in on AW's running commentary. Titus seemed a bit lost trying to follow up on the attack while trying to keep Kofi away from his corner. Santino then tagged in, as did Otunga. The action broke down moments later with bodies flying everywhere. AW suddenly decided to take his men away from the match during the chaos. Back in the ring, Otunga gained control of the match, but Rhodes walked off, leaving Otunga by himself. Suddenly, Brodus Clay's music played. Otunga tried to run away from Santino's Cobra, but Clay threw Otunga back into the ring, where Santino landed the Cobra for the pin and the win.

Post-match: All of the faces circled Otunga, who took a Killswitch from Christian. Clay then measured Santino for a giant splash to the chest. Cue up Brodus's music and some dancing, which brought the faces and random people from the crowd into the ring. The random people being several nine-year-olds that Cena said last week is the majority of the audience.

WINNERS: Team Santino at 8:27. Way too much added to the soup, like in the opening segment. People leaving the ring, music playing during a match, post-match dancing reinforcing Cena's irresponsible comment last week, etc. And, the poor heels rendered ineffective as usual.

BTW, this was the ONLY official match in the first hour of the show...

2 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS & A.J. vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & VICKIE GUERRERO

Sheamus and Ziggler started things off, with Sheamus dominating as Vickie screamed from the heel corner. Ziggler then kicked Sheamus at the legs to cut him off and land a DDT for a nearfall. Sheamus suddenly blasted Ziggler in the face with a forearm out of the corner before landing White Noise for a nearfall. Sheamus wanted to follow with the Brogue Kick, but Ziggler bailed to his corner to tag in Vickie, who asked Ziggler, "Are you kidding me?" Sheamus blasted Ziggler with a Brogue Kick anyways as Vickie entered the ring. A.J. followed into the ring and smashed Vickie with a Shining Wizard. A.J. with the cover for the win.

WINNERS: A.J. & Sheamus at 3:26.

3 -- HEATH SLATER vs. DOINK THE CLOWN

Doink, still wearing his blue jacket, grabbed a headlock and worked the arm before Slater landed a kick to the face. Doink came back with corner shoulders as Cole and Lawler went back through Doink's mid-1990s career. Suddenly, Slater hit a neckbreaker for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Slater at 1:24.

Post-match: Diamond Dallas Page's music played to bring out DDP to confront Slater. Cole recapped DDP's resume and noted he's a yoga instructor now. The vocal males chanted, "D-D-P" as Slater mocked Page's Diamond Cutter signal. Page said that was good, but then yanked him back into his arms to deliver the Cutter center ring. Page bang'ed the crowd before leaving the ring to slap hands with the ringside crowd.

4 -- KANE vs. BIG SHOW -- No DQ match

Show landed a headbutt sending Kane to the outside. Kane tried to climb back on the ring apron, but Show shoulder-blocked him to the floor. Meanwhile, Cole plugged Show and Kane involved in the 20-man battle royal on Smackdown tomorrow night. Show then tried a big boot against the barricade, but Kane ducked and Show ate the rail. Show came back with a thrust kick before tossing Kane back inside the ring. Show then retrieved a chair and slowly re-entered the ring, where Kane met him with an uppercut. Kane came back with a DDT for a nearfall.

Leading to the finish, the two big men quieted the crowd with a spot that featured Show colliding with a chair as Kane held it out; it wasn't clear who took the brunt of the blow. Show then stood up, sold a shoulder injury, and delivered a chokeslam for the pin and the win. Show left the ring and tried to shake off the pain as Cole repeated the line about Show seemingly unstoppable heading into MITB.

WINNER: Show at 3:47.

5 -- TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD

Tensai landed big headbutts in the corner before running into an empty corner turnbuckle when Kidd moved out of the way. Kidd suddenly rolled up Tensai from behind for a three count. Not quite Sheamus-Bryan at Mania, going 19 seconds. Post-match: Tensai destroyed Sakamoto to boos. After knocking Sakamoto to the floor, Tensai tried to rip open Sakamoto's face. They replayed the quick pin for Kidd before returning live to show Tensai seething as he stood ringside.

WINNER: Kidd at 0:19.

The PWTorch report does NOT include the final match of the night so I got it from ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's complete RAW results). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article10026019.shtml)


6. John Cena and C.M. Punk vs. Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho. Punk and Bryan started the match. They both tagged in their partners within the first two minutes. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment on Jericho, who held onto the ropes. Cena knocked Jericho to the floor heading into the break.

The heels controlled the bulk of the action after the break leading up to the overrun. They took turns tagging while working over Cena. There were dueling "Let's Go Cena" and "Cena Sucks" chants from the crowd.

Cena continued to sell for the heels and eventually got to his corner to make the hot tag. Punk springboarded into the ring and clotheslined Bryan. Punk went on an offensive flurry, including a high knee and an Anaconda Vice. Jericho entered the ring and kicked Punk to break up the pin. Cena tossed Jericho to ringside and they brawled up the ramp and to the backstage area.

Punk and Bryan traded good offense in the ring. Bryan took the advantage with a kick to Punk's head and got a two count. Punk came back with a superplex for a near fall that had the crowd hot. A.J.'s music played and she skipped to and around the ring as Punk and Bryan continued to exchange punches and kicks.

A.J. looked up at them and didn't seem pleased that they weren't looking at her. She climbed onto the ring apron and then went back to ringside and looked underneath the ring. It took her three looks, but she finally pulled a table out from underneath the ring and set it up at ringside.

A.J. slowly climbed to the top rope while looking down at the table. Bryan headed to ringside and pleaded with her. "Don't jump," Bryan said. Punk joined Bryan by approaching A.J. on the ring apron and telling her not to jump. A.J. planted a big kiss on Punk's lips and then shoved him off the ring apron, onto Bryan, and they both went through the table. A.J. pumped her arms and did the "Yes!" bit again to close the show... The new Raw commercial aired after the show went off the air...

John Cena and C.M. Punk fought Daniel Bryan and Chris Jericho to an apparent no-contest.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2012, 01:02 pm
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-3-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63002.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - LAYLA & THE GREAT KHALI vs. AKSANA & ANTONIO CESARO – MIXED TAG-TEAM MATCH

Hard chop to the chest of Cesaro by Khali in the early going. He missed a corner boot and Cesaro attacked the opposite leg. Cesaro blew a kiss to Aksana but Khali again grabbed Cesaro and chopped him. Before Khali could hit the brain chop, Cesaro ducked into his corner and tagged Aksana. She went right up to Khali and trash-talked him, but Layla jumped her. Layla spanked Aksana, then hit a springboard cross-body for two. Cesaro broke up the pin, but was sent out by Khali. Layla hit the neck-breaker on Aksana for the win.

WINNERS: Layla and Khali, at 1:56. Another extreme tonal shift from the first segment to this one. With Aksana and Khali extremely limited, even a short match wouldn’t amount to much.

2 – CODY RHODES vs. CHRISTAIN – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Feeling-out process to start, with a few quick pin attempts by Rhodes. Flap-jack by Christian for only a one-count at :57. Cole even didn’t think Rhodes deserved another shot after losing in his qualifying tag match last week. Rhodes was in control as they went to break at 1:40 of the match.

Back at 5:13 of the match. Rear wrist-lock into a slam by Rhodes. Front suplex by Rhodes for a two-count. Rhodes set Christian on the top rope and Christian fought back. Second-rope dropkick to Rhodes and both men were down at 6:53. Low dropkick by Christian with Rhodes against the ropes. Rhodes dropped down for an uppercut a la Goldust. Alabama Slam turned into a roll-up by Christian for two. A frustrated Rhodes began to take the turnbuckle pad off, but the ref replaced it. Christian set up for a Spear, but Rhodes kicked him low to stop him. Looked like a low-blow at first, but Christian held his arm and wrist. Disaster kick missed, but Rhodes dodged the Killswitch and hit Cross-Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 9:10. Nice match between these two – maybe better than their PPV encounter.

3 – ALEX RILEY vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE MITB QUALIFYING MATCH

Ziggler went into a rear chin-lock about a minute in. Suplex by Riley broke him free. Spinebuster into a near-fall at 1:43. Jumping DDT attempt blocked by Ziggler. Ziggler missed a splash and was rolled up for two. Zig Zag by Ziggler out of nowhere for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler, at 2:26. I can’t imagine anyone thinking Riley had a chance here.

4 – SANTINO MARELLA & SGT. SLAUGHTER & “HACKSAW” JIM DUGGAN vs. HUNICO & CAMACHO & DREW MCINTYRE

No entrances for the heels. Camacho got the better of Marella, then Hunico hit a Swanton coming in from the apron for two. Snap suplex by McIntyre for two. Duggan tagged in, as did Hunico. Rights and lefts from Hacksaw, then a clothesline. Three-point clothesline took Hunico down. Camacho broke up the pin. Slaughter took him down and Cole mocked how these tag matches always end. Back elbow by Duggan, then a clothesline. Marella tagged in and applied the Cobra. It struck Hunico and the faces won.

WINNERS: Marella, Duggan, and Slaughter, at 2:25. If there was ever a time to use Duggan and Slaughter, I guess the Great American Bash-themed show on the eve of Independence Day is it.

5 – CURT HAWKINS vs. RYBACK

Hawkins tried a few punches and a sleeper. That was turned into a backpack stunner. Ryback slammed Hawkins into the mat a few times as the crowd chanted “Goldberg.” Hawkins hit the ropes and then was hit with a clothesline. Ryback with his finisher for the win.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:11. Finally a step up in competition for Ryback, and Hawkins even got some offense (which was no-sold).

6 – GREAT AMERICAN BASH 20-MAN BATTLE ROYAL – WINNER GETS CONTROL OF NEXT WEEK’S SMACKDOWN

Justin Gabriel was the first one out, thanks to Big Show, at the :16 mark. Show and Clay went at it with Clay being dumped at :33 by Show. Khali headbutted Punk and Kane landed an uppercut on Sandow. Zeke Jackson laid in the clotheslines on Tensai in the far corner. Jackson was out at 1:03, I believe by Tensai. Ziggler tried to toss Zack Ryder as Daniel Bryan kicked away at Heath Slater. Kahli went over at 1:38, courtesy of Tensai, Swagger, and Del Rio. Sandow was out via Ryder at 1:58. Cody held onto the ropes on the apron and got back in. Santino was out at 2:15 by Rhodes. Disaster kick landed on Show, but a second one was no good and Rhodes ended up in a choke. So did Kingston, and they were both eliminated by Show at 2:46. They went to break at 2:57.

Back at 5:55 of the match, down to ten men. Looks like Swagger and Slater were eliminated during the break - no clips though. C.M. Punk dove at Bryan, taking both men out at 6:16. Sidewalk slam by Kane on Del Rio, and he almost lost his grip on the Mexican Aristocrat. Show and Kane did the double choke spot that they seem to do in every battle royal. Chokeslam on Show. Cena cleaned house around the 8:00 mark as everyone bumped for him. Del Rio out at 8:10. Attitude Adjustment for Kane. Crowd was super-hot for Cena. Cena lifted Tensai up and over at 8:39. Show came from behind and tossed Cena over the top at 8:44. Ryder was speared by Big Show. Christian was thrown out by Show at 9:06. Ziggler with a sleeper on Show. Kane hit a running boot that eliminated both men at 9:20. It was down to Ryder and Kane. Will Ryder FINALLY get his revenge? Kane blocked Ryder’s attack and went after Ryder. Big boot put Ryder down. Irish whip, but Ryder landed a drop toe-hold. Broski Boot found the mark. He went for his finish, but Kane caught him with a choke. Ryder snuck out the back, then low-bridged Kane on a charge for the win.

WINNER: Ryder, at 10:48.

Some of the eliminations during the match were shown. Ryder continued to celebrate in the ring as they closed the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2012, 01:03 pm
WWE NXT Results: 7-5-12

Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Shore's complete report). (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWETVreports/article10026066.shtml)

1. Sofia Cortez defeated Paige in 2:23. Both women locked up as Ross talked about how Paige’s mother and father were both wrestlers. Cortez hit a beautiful huracanrana which got a nice reaction from the crowd. Paige awkwardly rolled towards the centre of the ring before rolling out of it as if she realised she had gone the wrong way. Cortez hit numerous strikes in the corner before Paige hit one hell of a slap. Sofia came back with an enziguri which Ross described as running head hick. Cortez locked in a rest hold as the crowd booed. Paige got out of it and hit numerous slaps to the chest. Cortez hit a kick to the thigh before a great roundhouse kick to Paige’s head. She ran the ropes and sprung into a very unique DDT (which Paige sold brilliantly) for the win...

2. Seth Rollins defeated Camacho in 4:33. Seth attempted to lock up with Camacho but Camacho pushed him away. Seth hit a few strikes before Camacho took Seth down. and threw him into the corner and started pounding on him. Ross noted that "Camacho’s heritage will not allow him to have a retreat gear" which pokes holes in Camacho’s gimmick doesn’t it? Seth hit several chops before pounding on Camacho in the corner. Ross noted Seth’s uniqueness and also stated that Seth’s offence was reminiscent of CM Punk. Camacho hit a big legdrop and continue to pound on Seth as a "Let’s go Rollins" chant broke out.

Seth attempted to grab Camacho but missed to sell Camacho’s offence. A short time later Seth was on the ground holding the ropes, Camacho pulled him up but Seth hung on to the ropes, springing up, turning in mid air, landing on his feet and hitting an enziguri for a cool spot. He followed it up with a Mic Check into the bottom turnbuckle which looked and sounded great; it also got a great reaction from the crowd. Seth ran the ropes and hit a dropkick as the crowd became a lot louder. He headbanged in the corner, setting up for his splash but Hunico attempted t grab his feat distracting him. Hunico got a dropkick of his own. Camacho attacked Seth from behind and got Seth on his shoulders, Seth countered and pushed Camacho into Hunico before hitting Camacho with The Blackout for the 1-2-3.

3. Corey Graves and Jake Carter defeated CJ Parker and Nick Rodgers in 2:24. Saxton explained Graves and Carter’s gimmick of being ladies men who work and party hard. Parker hit a monkey flip before Graves took advantage and drove CJ into his corner. Parker hit a sunset flip but Carter made the blind tag and kicked CJ in the back before pounding on him. Carter and Graves hit some nice strikes on CJ before Graves locked in a rest hold on CJ. CJ hit a massive backdrop before both men made tags to their partners. Carter hit a sick looking spinebuster on Rodgers. He took out CJ before tagging in Graves and hitting a scoop slam and neckbreaker combination which they call "Bottom’s Up" for the win. They left to a good amount of heat ad Ross talked about their great potential...

4. Kassius Ohno defeated Mike Dalton in 2:32. "K.O" chants started immediately as both men locked up. A loud "Let’s go Ohno/Dalton sucks" chant broke out. Dalton hit a drop toe hold and went for the quick cover. Ohno hit a dropkick as J.R noted how he had wrestled all over the world. Ohno stood in a corner yelled "Oh-No!" before running and an elbow to Dalton’s head which got a good reaction from the crowd. He followed it up with flying lariat.

Ross continued to put over Ohno’s experience and the fact that he knows so many different styles, Saxton chimed in and noted that his combination of different styles made him very different. No shit Sherlock. Dalton managed to get out of a rest hold, went for roundhouse kick but hit a spinning wheel kick instead. A short time later Kassius hit a rolling elbow out of nowhere, which got a great reaction for the clean win.

5. Jinder Mahal defeated Derrick Bateman in 4:02. Both men locked up as a "USA" chant broke out. Jinder went for a suplex but Bateman countered with Northern Lights suplex. Later Bateman hit a suicide dive on to Jinder on the outside. Bateman came up holding his left leg as a "this is awesome" chant briefly broke out. Jinder dragged Bateman over to the ropes and sat on Bateman before hitting several knees like he did last week. Bateman performed several roll ups before hitting a stiff looking flapjack. He then hit a Moonlight Drive which got a great reaction and a near fall. Bateman went for the DBD but Jinder got out of it and hugged the bottom rope. Bateman pulled him up and went for the DBD again but Jinder countered and hit a weak looking knee to the back. Jinder then locked in the Camel Clutch for the win.

6. Michael McGillicutty, Hunico and Camacho defeated Tyson Kidd, Seth Rollins and Bo Dallas in 9:51. Dallas and McGillicutty started, Michael made Bo tag in Kidd only for Michael to tag in Hunico. Nice. Ross questioned why Hunico wears his bandana as he beat on Kidd. Kidd came back with a great huracanrana out of the corner. Hunico locked in the Gory Special before turning it into a pin. Kidd, whilst still locked in the move managed to lift his body weight and hit a sunset flip for a great spot. The action quickened as Bo Dallas and Seth Rollins made quick tags. Hunico took control after Camacho distracted Seth...

Back from the break Camacho locked in a rest hold, Seth fought out of it as Hunico made the tag, Seth hit a big monkey flip which drew a lot of cheers from the crowd. He tagged in Bo Dallas who made a comeback with a variety of clotheslines and other strikes. Camacho took control and tagged in McGillicutty. The commentators continued to put over McGillicutty in a big way. Bo tried to make the hot tag but Hunico tagged in and hit a very nice double underhook backbreaker. A very loud "Bo" chant started as regal talked about how Hunico and Camacho met...

Apparently, Hunico was getting beat up by a gang when one of the gang members stabbed him, Camacho then showed up, grabbed the guy that had stabbed Hunico and bit his nose off. Talk about pushing PG to the limit. Bo continued to play the babyface in peril, he finally made the tag to Tyson Kidd who got really big reaction. He hit his kick whilst he holds on to the ropes which also got a big reaction before following it up with a picture perfect springboard dropkick. Everyone ended up in the ring before the action spilled to the outside, Seth then performed a cross body to the outside which even took out Bo. Only Kidd was left in the ring. A "this is awesome" chant broke out. Kidd went for a dive to the outside but McGillicutty re-entered the ring and hit a chop block on Kidd. He followed it up with a sick looking McGillicutter for the win. The heel team’s win got a great amount of heat...

Jim Ross then thanked everyone for tuning in before closing out the show...
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 06 2012, 01:04 pm
TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 7-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_63056.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TV champion DEVON vs. CRIMSON -- TV Title match

Crimson continued to work on Devon as the announcers wondered if Crimson can bounce back from his singles loss to James Storm at Slammiversary last month. Devon eventually absorbed Crimson's pre-match attack and landed a corner attack, but Crimson cut him off with a big clothesline. Crimson then got in ref Earl Hebner's face, distracting himself, which allowed Devon to nail a lift-up spinebuster for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Madison Rayne stomped down to the ring and walked past Devon to grab Earl Hebner. Madison planted a big kiss on Hebner, who sold shock over the "crush" reveal. Madison left, then Hebner went from shock to a devilish grin.

WINNER: Devon at 2:02 to retain the TV Title. It seems like Crimson is about to go the opposite direction with the losing streak gimmick. Meanwhile, TNA continues to give TV focus and attention to non-wrestlers, with the latest being Hebner.

2 -- FLIP CASSANOVA vs. DAKOTA DARSOW -- X Division tournament qualifying match

Tenay noted Darsow appeared on Impact last year during the X Division invitational. Tenay introduced another lawyer angle, noting Gail Kim has delayed her Knockouts Title challenge against Miss Tessmacher until next week. But, the replacement Knockouts tag match will occur in the next segment. And, of course, the big question is whether Earl Hebner will be special referee with Madison Rayne in the match.

As for the X Division match the announcers were briefly focused on, Flip knocked Dakota to the outside, then landed a twisting corkscrew moonsault springboarding off the second rope. Flip then rolled Dakota into the ring and went for a top-rope body press, but Dakota rolled through into an elbow drop. Dakota followed with an awkward-looking series of leg drops for a nearfall. Dakota, with a busted nose, went for a moonsault, but missed when Flip rolled out of the way. Flip then came off the top rope with a high-flying move before deciding to go back up top, drawing Taz's ire. Flip then went for a 450 splash and kind of crash-landed on Darsow for the pin and the win. Post-match: Flip was covered in blood from splashing Darsow, who continued to bleed heavily from the nose selling frustration with the loss.

WINNER: Flip at 3:54. Awkward throughout, but Flip provided some needed athleticism on this show.

3 -- TNA Knockouts champion MISS TESSMACHER & TARA vs. MADISON RAYNE & GAIL KIM

Of note, Earl Hebner is not the referee, avoiding a serious conflict of interest. After back-and-forth focusing on the Tessmacher vs. Gail feud, Tessmacher eventually scored a clean, decisive victory over Madison. Tessmacher and Tara stood tall, victorious, with no sign of a heel turn or anything mischievous.

WINNERS: Tess & Tara at 3:21. This was presented as just a filler segment to bridge to next week's title match.

4 -- KENNY KING vs. LARS ONLY -- X Division Title tournament qualifier

King dominated things early on as Tenay noted King is a real-life "Magic Mike," incorporating the recent movie release into the broadcast. King continued his domination on the outside before rolling Lars back into the ring for a nearfall.

Lars came back with a flying huracanrana on the outside before celebrating for the crowd. Lars sent King back into the ring for a pin attempt resulting in a nearfall. Lars called for the end with a Tornado DDT, but King fought him off. They kind of fell apart trying a Russian legsweep spot, which Taz said "kind of sucked." King and Lars reset with a corner spot, which King turned into an enziguiri. King followed with a sidewinder slam for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Hemme brought in Kenny King for a post-match interview after a look at the Direct Auto Impact of the Night. King told the "pretty lady" that he didn't come here to play games, but get himself noticed. King said he has a lot riding on this, so if you thought this was special, just wait for Destination X. He said the king will be crowned on Sunday.

WINNER: King at 5:21. Rough at times, but more fine athleticism on the show. Solid post-match promo from King until the clichéd final soundbyte.

5 -- JEFF HARDY vs. JAMES STORM -- BFG Series match

Early feeling-out process as the announcers hyped both men as the front-runners in the BFG Series according to Hogan.

After a minute, Hardy landed a shoulderblock before the two men traded quick pin attempts. They eventually went to their corners after a babyface stand-off, leading to "Hardy, Hardy" chants. Hardy then side-stopped a charging Storm, who found himself on the apron. Hardy landed a punch and Storm landed on the floor to collect himself. Storm paced ringside before slowly re-entering the ring as the announcers discussed Storm's body language slowing down the pace and appearing to be frustrated.

Storm eventually hopped off the apron to the floor as the Hardy chants picked up. After stalling some more, Storm slowly re-entered the ring and measured Hardy for a lock-up center ring. The two men moved the lock-up against the ropes, and Tenay sent the show to break following two minutes of inactivity.

Back live, a side headlock to continue the inactivity. Storm broke free of Hardy's mathold and landed shoulder thrusts in the corner. Hardy came back with a leg drop, but Storm came right back with repeated clotheslines. And, Hardy came right back with clotheslines into a seated dropkick for a two count. Storm returned fire with a turnaround slam out of the corner for a close two count, then Hardy knocked Storm to the outside. Hardy followed with a baseball slide kick, then flying splash to knock down both men on the outside.

At 11:00, Storm rolled back into the ring and Hardy just made it back into the ring before a ten count. The two men reset with Storm landing a big clothesline that took out both men. They reached their feet at a seven count, but sold having nothing left. Storm then built some momentum for a corner splash, but Hardy dodged. Hardy tried to follow with a top-rope Swanton Bomb, but Storm moved just in time. Storm then slowly went up top looking for a finisher, and connected with an elbow drop for a close two count.

At 13:30, Storm sold frustration unable to put away Hardy. Storm then warmed up for the Last Call superkick, but Hardy sold unable to stand up. Storm fixed Hardy, which threw off Storm's rhythm and allowed Hardy to duck a superkick attempt. Hardy followed right up with the Twist of Fate for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Storm sold frustration as he collected himself in the corner. They replayed the finish before coming back live to show Hardy staring down Storm. The two men shook hands center-ring before Storm left the ring to give Hardy center-stage. Tenay and Taz then recapped the standings, which show Hardy moving up to a tie for third place with 14 points.

WINNER: Hardy at 14:04; Hardy gets 7 points in the BFGS. Odd middle before a strong finish and post-match handshake. Overall, good use of the BFGS format to create a clean finish in a TV main event.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 08 2012, 04:52 am
WWE Superstars Results: 7-5-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_63067.shtml)

1 - PRIMO (w/Epico and Rosa Mendes) vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Darren Young and AW)

Primo gamely rushes O'Neil, only to get tossed to the mat. Primo is struggling to overcome O'Neil's power, and a cross-body finally takes the big man down. It doesn't last long, as O'Neil quickly regains control. Primo's brief comeback is cut off when O'Neil blocks a sunset flip attempt. Primo tries to take a swing at AW, but the distraction lets O'Neil continue the attack. Again, Primo makes a comeback, but O'Neil blocks a sunset flip. AW distracts the ref letting Darren Young to get involved. After the distraction, Primo slips out of a suplex and pins O'Neil with a schoolboy.

WINNER: Primo in 5:30. Who booked this, Donald Duck? Why have half of the #1 contenders lose to a someone who isn't near the title right now? O'Neil and Young are supposed to look strong, and be working towards a match with Kofi Kingston and R-Truth, not continuing a feud with the team that lost their re-match without even getting into the ring.

2 - WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON vs. ROB CABILDO

Kingston offers a handshake, but Cabildo turns him down. They go back-and-forth a little, and Kingston shows off his agility. Kingston gets angry after eating a dropkick and fires up big. Boom Drop and Kingston calls for the end. Trouble in Paradise and the match is over.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston in 3:10. More bizarre booking. Who is Rob Cabildo? Why dos Kofi Kingston need squash matches against unknowns? I do not understand what is happening here, it's like someone mixed up some FCW try-out tapes with the Superstars episode.

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. ANTONIO CESARO (w/Aksana)

Great "Team Chest Hair" sign in the audience. Riley and Cesaro do some chain wrestling; it's nice to see some fresh skills from Riley. Big "Let's Go Riley" chant as Cesaro takes control. Riley with a sky high dropkick. Cesaro flapjacks Riley into the turnbuckle out of a Ten Punches in the corner. Lot's of high strength back-and-forth. Cesaro with a number of unique moves, and Stanford says that Cesaro is a one-time member of the Swiss military; no surprise there, since they do mandatory conscription. Riley makes a big comeback. Riley with a flying clothesline from the top rope, Kane style. Cesaro cracks the neck and the Neutralizer picks up the win.

WINNER: Antonio Cesaro in 6:00. I expected better from this match, since both Cesaro and Riley have impressed me in the ring. Something didn't click here. Antonio Cesaro needs new music, his music sounds like some goofy Brit pop stuff, and it is just too "bouncy" for a heel.

4 - ZACK RYDER vs. JACK SWAGGER

Swagger shows off his amateur wrestling skills early on. Huge crowd reaction for Ryder and Swagger keeps him down. Ryder fires back with a dropkick and mocks Swagger's victory laps. Swagger's power continues to let him dominate. Ryder hot-shots Swagger then lands a flapjack to turn it around. Swagger takes out Ryder's knee and starts working Ryder over. Ryder wants the Broski Boot but Swagger gets up. Ryder sends Swagger out of the ring and tries a leap over the ropes, but Swagger catches him and lands a backbreaker.

Out of the break, Swagger is showing off, but misses a leg drop and Ryder drops bombs. Swagger ducks a cross-body and Ryder bounces off the ropes. The crowd rallies, but Swagger continues to control the match. Ryder fights off a superplex and eventually puts boots up to block a Swagger Bomb in the corner. They trade big rights with Ryder gaining the advantage. Faceplant and Ryder gets serious. Broski Boot gets a nearfall. Ryder throws up the "L.I." hand sign, but Swagger ducks the Rough Ryder, and hits the Swagger Bomb for a nearfall.

Swagger looks furious. Ryder then turns a suplex into a reverse neckbreaker for two. Ryder tries a Rough Ryder from the second rope, but Swagger catches him with the anklelock. Ryder sends Swagger to the apron to escape, but when Swagger jumps back into the ring, Ryder nails him with the Rough Ryder for the win.

WINNER: Zack Ryder in 10:30. Very good match. Ryder gets the crowd involved and Swagger is a very good technician. Both men need wins quite badly right now.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 09 2012, 01:08 pm
TNA Destination X PPV Results: 7-8-12 (next three posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnappvs/article_63123.shtml)

1 -- MASON ANDREWS vs. LARS ONLY vs. DAKOTA DARSOW vs. RUBIX -- X Division Title tournament Last Chance match

The crowd picked their favorite, Rubix, early on in this match. After all four men got some one-on-one spotlight in the ring, Rubix cleared the ring and landed a leaping flip dive onto the other three competitors on the outside. Back in the ring, Scorpio Sky applied a submission on Lars as they cut backstage to show Kid Kash watching intently since he faces the winner of this match. Darsow, Sky, and Lars set up a three-way Tower of Doom spot before Rubix flew across the ring with a coast-to-coast dropkick on Darsow to put everyone on the mat. Next was a series of high-impact moves with everyone getting in their stuff. Sky then dropped Lars with a TKO-like finisher for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Scorpio Sky/Mason Andrews at 8:22.

2 -- KID KASH vs. MASON ANDREWS -- X Division Title tournament match

Kash dominated Sky, who continued to sell the effects of the four-way qualifying match. Tenay noted Kash wrestles professionally and competes in MMA, making Kash and Sky similar opponents. Kash continued to dominate, but became frustrated as Sky continued to kick out of pin attempts. Kash offered a middle finger and slap across the face, but Sky kicked out again. Sky tried to make a comeback, but Kash delivered an emphatic knock-down clothesline. Kash then kicked Sky to the floor and jawed with some fans ringside before sending Sky back into the ring.

Back in the ring, Kash wanted a second-rope moonsault, but Sky got his knees up just in time to block Kash. Both men sold on the mat before Sky came back with a flying elbow into a flying dropkick. Sky followed with a head scissors, then came off the top with a dropkick for a two count. He followed with a leaping bicycle knee, and appeared to have the match won, but Kash kicked out in time. Kash then tried to come back with knee strikes, but Sky ducked a second knee, pushed Kash to the mat, and rolled him up for a quick pin and the win. Sky advances to the Ultimate X title match.

WINNER: Andrews/Sky at 8:10. Sky looked much more comfortable in this singles match than his qualifying match on Impact two weeks ago. Fine singles match, overall. (**)

3 -- KENNY KING vs. DOUG WILLIAMS -- X Division Title tournament match
 
As King and Williams locked up, JB gave a thorough recap of King's journey to TNA and noted his Chippendale's line of work in Las Vegas. Williams dominated early on with matholds as the announcers talked about Williams growing up watching World of Sport in the U.K. Williams and King came to a stalemate, so Williams offered a handshake, but then kicked him in the gut. King quickly returned fire with a twisting press on the floor.
 
Back in the ring, King and Williams exchanged mat wrestling holds, smiling as they countered each other. Williams came back with a corner elbow into a flying European Uppercut for a two count. Williams followed with more offense before King ducked a clothesline, nailed an atomic drop, and followed with an enziguiri to the back of the head, which floored both men. King followed with a spin kick for a nearfall, then a spinebuster for a nearfall. King and Williams awkwardly tried to set up a top-rope move, with King appearing to be blown up, so Williams knocked King to the floor. Williams then landed a running knee to King's face as a fan on the front row shouted, "C'mon, Nigel!"
 
Both men were nearly counted out trying to get back into the ring, but they made it back at nine. Williams scored more two counts on pin attempts, but then King ducked a second-rope attack and nailed sort of a throw-down slam out of the fireman's carry position. King made the cover for the win to advance to the Ultimate X match later tonight.
 
WINNER: King at 10:35. Another match where they seemed to throw together a bunch of moves to make up for a lack of back-story in this tournament. It was good for the most part, but also lacking a key emotional connection with the audience. (**)

4 -- SONJAY DUTT vs. RASHAD CAMERON -- X Division Title tournament match
 
Dutt and Cameron tried to create an issue early on, with Cameron pie-facing Dutt to establish himself as the heel in the match. Meanwhile, JB talked up Dutt's rock-star status in India, but did not mention TNA's cousin promotion, Ring Ka King, by name. Rashad lost control of the match, then Dutt knocked him to the outside and landed a flying dropkick. Rashad re-gained control on the floor, then scored a two count back in the ring. Rashad noticed a quiet crowd, so he screamed at the crowd to look at Sonjay looking pathetic.
 
Rashad continued to scream at the crowd, then applied a body scissors submission center-ring. Rashad lost his focus, though, arguing with ref Earl Hebner. Dutt came back with a corner attack, then springboard splash from the ring apron for a close two count. The two men then traded moves as the crowd and announcers remained silent trying to figure out what they were going for. Rashad then got in Hebner's face again. The unforced error allowed Dutt to make a comeback, then nail his new moonsault double stomp finisher to the stomach for the pin and the win. Post-match: JB brought up Ring Ka King, noting Dutt's journey back to TNA's spotlight.
 
WINNER: Dutt at 7:16. Good showing from both men, especially Cameron in the heel role. The crowd is already worn out seeing similar moves in each match, though. (**1/4)

5 -- ZEMA ION vs. FLIP CASSANOVA -- X Division Title tournament match
 
Ion dominated early on, then pulled out hairspray to accentuate his wild hair-do tonight. The unforced error allowed Flip to come back with a knee to the gut followed by a springboard twisting press for a nearfall. That was Flip's last gasp, as Ion came back with a Widow's Peak-like finisher for the pin and the win. Post-match, Ion played up his cockiness before spraying his hair with more spray on the way out of the ring.
 
WINNER: Ion at 3:55; Ion, Sky, King, and Dutt will compete in Ultimate X to determine the new X Division champion. (*1/4)

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 09 2012, 01:09 pm
6 -- SAMOA JOE vs. KURT ANGLE -- BFG Series match
 
JB noted he talked to Angle on the way back to Orlando from Friday's house show and Angle is looking for submission victories from here on out in the Series. Joe and Angle grappled and exchanged holds early on before coming to a stalemate. Joe then grounded Angle in the corner before washing his face and landing a running boot. Joe knocked Angle to the floor, then landed a flying suicide dive elbow to the face. Joe was slow returning to the ring, though, allowing Angle to kick him in the chest and gain control of the match.
 
Angle continued the attack as both men teased submission attempts throughout Angle's attack. Angle then went for three German Suplexes and connected with all three to put both men on the mat selling the effects. Angle then tried an anklelock to get 10 points, but Joe kicked him away. Angle tried to charge Joe, but Joe delivered a frontslam out of the corner. Joe then wanted a Muscle Buster, and he connected center-ring. Joe made a cover, but Angle kicked out in-time. Joe sold frustration as Angle recovered nearby.
 
With 3:30 left in the time limit, Joe went for a rear-naked choke, but Angle dropped down into the anklelock. After fighting the hold, Joe countered into the rear-naked choke center-ring. Angle teased tapping out, but elbowed out before reaching his feet and executing a desperation Angle Slam. Angle with a cover, but Joe kicked out in-time. Angle, fired up, came to his feet and dropped the straps. Joe escaped an anklelock, then slid over Angle into a rear-naked choke. 45 seconds remaining as Angle fought the hold. 30 seconds remaining as Angle faded in the hold. Suddenly, Earl Hebner called for the bell, indicating Angle was out. So, Joe gets a submission win for 10 points.
 
Post-match: Tenay said Angle may not have tapped out, but, in the opinion of Earl Hebner, Angle was not responding, so he stopped the match. Angle then woke up and Hebner explained his point of view that Angle was out. Angle sold frustration with the decision as Joe left the ring in possession of first place in the BFG Series with 37 points vs. James Storm's 36 points.
 
WINNER: Joe via TKO/submission at 14:38. Excellent sports-like match and finish. Everyone played their parts well making sure Joe was credited for a resume-building victory over Angle, while Angle didn't lose anything due to the ref's decision. (***)

7 -- TNA tag champion CHRISTOPHER DANIELS vs. A.J. STYLES -- Last Man Standing match
 
After Daniels tried to play games by stalling early on, this turned into a "fight" with the action spilling to the outside. Back in the ring, Styles took out months of frustration on Daniels with strikes and corner chops and punches. Styles then lost control after he whipped Daniels across the ring to the corner, leading to a kick to the face from Daniels. Daniels then interjected a chair into the match. After some teased moves using the chair, Daniels landed a uranage across the seat of the chair, prompting Styles to sell a back injury.
 
The match moved to the floor, where Daniels jawed with fans ringside in-between smashing Styles into the ring steps. Styles came up bleeding from the forehead before Daniels rolled Styles back into the ring. In the ring, Styles blocked a chair shot before landing a springboard smash that sent the chair into Daniels's face. Daniels rolled to the outside for a breather, but Styles smashed Daniels head-first into the ring steps that Daniels propped up moments earlier. Daniels then came up bleeding from the forehead and staggered into a right hand blow from Styles.
 
At 11:00, Daniels staggered up the entrance ramp to the top of the stage. The two men then traded blows as Daniels teased falling off the stage near the announce position. Styles built a head of steam to send Daniels into oblivion, but Daniels charged him and they double-clotheslined each other. Back on their feet, Styles took control with right hands as the fans chanted for Styles to push Daniels over the stage. Styles paused to hear the chants, which allowed Daniels to block a Clash tease into a back-drop onto the stage. Daniels's control was only momentary, though, as Styles came back with a springboard reverse DDT leaping off a section of the platform to execute his trademark move.
 
The ref started counting out Daniels, but Kazarian came out of nowhere to shove Styles off the stage to the ground below. After reprimanding Kaz, ref Brian Hebner hopped down to Styles to begin a ten count on him. Styles reached his feet at nine, though. Daniels cursed his bad luck, then blasted Styles into a guardrail. Daniels then jogged down to ringside to retrieve a table, which he dragged back toward the stage area.
 
Daniels wanted Angel's Wings through the table, but Styles shoved Daniels into Kaz. Styles followed with a Pele Kick to Daniels. He then wanted the Clash off the ramp and connected through the table below on the ground. Big pop for the move as the announcers went silent to sell the moment. Ref Hebner paused before starting a ten count. Daniels started getting up, but collapsed to the ground. Meanwhile, Styles managed to pull himself up just before ten, then collapsed to the ground after ten. Styles wins.
 
WINNER: Styles at 17:41. Another memorable bout in the Styles-Daniels series, which was enhanced by the Clash off the stage through a table being the finish and not a nearfall. Well-done by both men incorporating the TV feud into this match. (***1/4)

8 -- MASON ANDREWS vs. ZEMA ION vs. KENNY KING vs. SONJAY DUTT -- Ultimate X match for vacant X Division Title
 
The focus was on King early on, and he was the first to tease climbing across the cables toward the X Title belt, but Dutt dropkicked him to the mat. Ion then teased climbing for the belt, but King and Andrews (Scorpio Sky) yanked him down to the mat. Meanwhile, Dutt was taken out of the match when he suffered an apparent injury attempting a running moonsault and landing awkwardly on the bottom rope. So, at least temporarily, it was down to a three-way match. Scorpio Sky made it half-way across the cables toward the belt, but King intercepted him with a mid-air spear.
 
After being "medically evaluated," Dutt returned to the match and scaled the Ultimate X trusses while the other wrestlers battled on the cables. Suddenly, King dropped both he and Sky with a neckbreaker off the cables. Meanwhile, Ion and Dutt climbed to the very tip-top of the structure. They did a spot where Dutt had to look up in order for Ion to spray him in the face with hairspray. Dutt then slowly fell down to the mat, leaving Ion on top of the structure. Ion then reached down and grabbed the title belt, unhooked it, and is the new X Champ.
 
Post-match: Hemme brought in Ion to discuss becoming new X Division champion. As the fans booed, Ion demanded some respect. Ion dedicated this win to all of his haters and critics. But, most of all, he wants to dedicate this win to his biggest inspiration, Jesse Sorensen. "Without you and without breaking your neck, I may never have realized my true potential," Ion said. Ion noted he is now the prettiest X Division champion of all-time.
 
WINNER: Ion at 8:50 to become new X Division champion. TNA is obviously going all the way with an Ion-Sorensen feud if they gave the title to Ion when Ion represented the lack of depth in the X Division after Aries. Overall, an unremarkable finish to the tournament. (*3/4)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 09 2012, 01:10 pm
9 -- TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE vs. AUSTIN ARIES -- TNA World Title match
 
Once the bell sounded, JB regained the broadcast and shared a moment he had with Aries in the ring where Aries told him he is so ready for this match. JB also shared his experiences being on the road with Roode, observing his disciplined lifestyle as champion. Aries and Roode went through a feeling-out process early on, exchanging control before coming to a stalemate three minutes in. Aries eventually cleared Roode to the outside and landed a double axehandle to the back. Aries rolled Roode back into the ring to "Next World Champ" chants, but missed with a top-rope splash attempt. Roode then took control of the action.
 
Roode retained control when he side-stepped Aries trying to fly at him with a suicide dive on the outside. After eating the guardrail, Aries sold face-first on the mat before Roode rolled him back into the ring to score a two count on a pin attempt. Roode then went to work on Aries's mid-section as Aries tried to regain his bearings following the suicide dive crash. "Give up! You're not even in my league!" Roode shouted at Aries. Roode continued to taunt Aries, who came up bleeding from the nose. Aries had enough of Roode's taunts and fired off chops and forearms before clotheslining Roode to the floor. Aries then went for the suicide dive, this time connecting on the outside.
 
Back in the ring, Aries landed a missile dropkick before measuring Roode for a corner attack, but Roode intercepted and delivered a powerslam for a nearfall. Roode tried to follow with a spear of sorts, but Aries dipped his mid-section and floated into a Last Chancery submission. Roode countered into a cross-face, though. Moments later, Aries countered into the Last Chancery. Roode teased tapping out, but instead raked Aries's eyes for an escape. The two men then blocked finishing attempts before Roode nailed a spinebuster for a close two count. Aries then missed a desperation corner attack and sold a shoulder injury. Roode followed right up with a cross-face targeting the shoulder and neck. The crowd tried to rally behind Aries, who fought the hold before crawling on his belly to the bottom rope for a break.
 
At 20:00, Roode left the ring and retrieved the title belt. Roode re-entered with possession of the belt, but ref Brian Hebner cut off Roode and sent the belt to the outside. Roode low-blowed Aries during the distraction and made a cover, but Aries kicked out in-time. Roode then argued with the ref, allowing Aries to recover in the corner. Aries then flew at Roode with a corner dropkick before attempting the brainbuster, but Roode escaped and shoved Aries into Hebner. Roode followed right up with a belt shot to the face. Roode then dragged the ref toward a pinning situation, but Aries kicked out just before three.
 
Next, Roode wanted a Fisherman Suplex, but Aries countered into a quick roll-up for a two count. Roode tried again, but Aries slipped out and landed a kick strike to the chest. Aries then followed right up with the brainbuster center-ring. Aries made the cover and it was good for the win as the Impact Zone exploded. New World champ, ending Roode's lengthy title run. Post-match: The announcers excitedly talked up Aries's journey to this moment before confetti fell from the ceiling for Aries to celebrate the moment. Aries smiled and pointed around the ring as Tenay noted Destination X 2012 will always be remembered for when Austin Aries became TNA World Hvt. champion. They signed off nine minutes before the top of the hour.
 
WINNER: Aries at 22:42 to capture the TNA World Title. Excellent, PPV main event-worthy match with a surprising result after Aries stood tall at the end of Impact on Thursday. But, after Ion's win in the Ultimate X match, it seemed like TNA would end on a "feel-good moment" with Aries winning the title, especially after months of cheap finishes for Roode to retain the title. Aries winning makes sense after building momentum on PPV through Bully Ray and Samoa Joe, but it seems like Roode was settling into a groove as top champion. Now, does TNA change the destination of Roode-Storm at Bound for Glory, or does Roode regain the title before the BFG PPV? It should be interesting to see how this plays out. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 11 2012, 10:23 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-9-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_63167.shtml) Condensed to in-ring results plus some of the other CRAP that went on!

A.J. came out, followed by C.M. Punk and finally Daniel Bryan. Want to know what went on besides a couple of marriage proposals? Click da link! I thought it was kinda cool to have the Mystery RAW GM back...at first.

1 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER -- non-title match

Back from break, Sheamus's music played to bring out the World Hvt. champion as Jack Swagger stood-by in the ring. Sheamus was selling the effects of Alberto Del Rio's beating on the live Smackdown six days ago. Once the bell sounded, Sheamus took it right to Swagger with White Noise followed by an emphatic Brogue Kick for the pin in under one minute.

WINNER: Sheamus at 0:58.

Santino tries to find out who he RAW GM is. Yep...it's going to be one of those nights. I feel sorry for the good folks in Denver.

2 -- DOLPH ZIGGLER & TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD & IC Champion CHRISTIAN

WWE suddenly cut to the ring, where four men were randomly assembled in the ring for a tag match promoting Smackdown's MITB ladder match. And, Vickie Guerrero was on commentary. After some brief back-and-forth, Sakamoto provided a distraction for Tensai to down Christian, then splash the IC champion for a quick pin and the win. Post-match: Tensai re-targeted Tyson Kidd for another beat down. Dolph and Vickie then high-tailed it away from ringside as Tensai surveyed his damage.

WINNERS: Tensai & Ziggler at 1:35. They're moving too quickly for the audience to digest what's happened since the opening segment.

Cole and Lawler get into an argument...oh wait, RAW GM chimes in. Wrestlemania rematch between the two! Go to WWE.com and vote to see this match.

3 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

McIntyre landed an early kick before going up top for a high-flying move, but he ran into a headbutt from Clay. Clay wasted no time following up with a big splash for the pin and the win. Cue up the kids entering the ring to dance as Cole disingenuously said this is what people want from Raw on Monday nights, not Cole vs. Lawler.

WINNER: Clay at 0:35.

4 -- JOHN CENA & KANE vs. CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW

Cena started things off with Jericho and took control of the action, prompting Jericho to scamper over to his corner to tag out to Show. Show then slowly entered the ring to face Cena, who gave way to Kane. The two big men circled each other before trading bombs in the corner. The big men then gave away to Jericho and Cena, who controlled the action before Jericho distracted the ref, which allowed Show to smash Cena from the ring apron. The heels took control on Cena as the show went to break.

Back from break, Show was working on Cena before quieting the crowd to deliver a frying pan-like chop to the chest. Show tried again, but Cena ducked, then tried a bodyslam, but Show fell on top of Cena for a nearfall. Show followed with a bearhug in the middle of the ring, which afforded Cena the opportunity to set up a Feat of Strength side-suplexing Show. Cena then tagged in Kane, who dropkicked Show. Kane tried to follow with a top-rope move, but Show side-stepped Kane and landed a big spear. Show made a cover, but Kane kicked out in time.

Show had enough for now and tagged in Jericho, who double axe-handle smashed Kane off the second rope. Cole talked up Jericho's resume in WWE and role as frontman for "Fozzy" as Jericho continued to work over Kane. Show then cheap-shotted Kane behind the ref's back and they cut to break with Cena complaining about the heels's shenanigans occurring across the ring.

Back from break, Jericho was still working on Kane as Cena tried to rally the crowd. Kane eventually made it to his feet to ram Jericho into the corner before landing a sidewalk slam. Cena desperately wanted a tag, and Kane made the tag at 16:00. Cena exploded on Jericho with trademark offense before setting up for and delivering the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena then wanted the AA, and he connected. Cena made a cover, but Show yanked Cena out of the ring. The ref suddenly called for the bell, apparently throwing out the match. Talk about setting precedent for future inconsistent application of rules.

Post-match: Show chucked Cena into the barricade before clothesline Kane on the floor. Show then went under the ring to retrieve a handful of ladders. He used one ladder to smash Kane, then his own partner, Jericho. Show began playing with the ladders, unable to decide on his next move. "Big Show sucks" chant from the crowd. Show then placed Jericho inside one of the ladders and smashed Jericho with the top rung.

Suddenly, Cena entered the scene with a ladder and blasted the big bully over the top rope. Cena triumphantly hoisted up the ladder as Cole excitedly said that's Cena's equalizer Sunday night. Cole wondered aloud if Cena will be able to win the MITB ladder match. Lawler said what he does know is it's possible to clear out Show, as Cena just demonstrated. Cole also wondered aloud if Cena will make good on his guarantee Sunday night.

WINNERS: No Contest at 16:33. Plenty of tag action to "whet the appetite" for Sunday and promote the idea of Cena as the favorite to win MITB in order to entice PPV buys from Cena's fanbase.

5 -- SIN CARA vs. HEATH SLATER -- Smackdown MITB qualifying match

Slater was already in the ring back from break. Once the bell sounded, the announcers recapped Slater's rough journey against former WWE stars as of late, including taking a Diamond Cutter from DDP last week. Slater worked a headlock early on, but Cara used the mood lighting to his advantage to easily discard Slater with a spinning head scissors into a facebuster for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sin Cara at 1:42; Cara qualifies for SD's MITB match.

Post-match: Slater grabbed the mic and said he is a future champion. He vowed to prove it. Slater requested any former champion to come on down and he guaranteed to beat the person. Suddenly, Bob Backlund's music played to bring out Backlund dressed to wrestle. Cole read Backlund's resume as Bob slowly made his way to the ring smiling for the crowd. Before Backlund even locked up with Slater, a smattering of fans chanted, "You still got it." Backlund then approached Slater for a handshake, which Slater turned into a boot to the gut. Slater mocked Bob, who then ducked a clothesline and slapped on the cross-face chicken wing, which got a pop. Slater tapped as Backlund snapped a la mid-1990s WWF. Backlund eventually released the hold and his music played to cue up a celebration.

6 -- JERRY LAWLER vs. MICHAEL COLE

Back live, the Harlem Heat music was playing. Ringside, Josh Mathews and Booker T were shown joining commentary to call the match, which started with Cole trying to run away. However, Booker made sure Cole stayed in the ring, where Lawler put Cole in the airplane spin. Lawler then made the pin for the win. Post-match: The Raw GM buzzed in again. Mathews stepped up to the podium and said that due to Booker's blatant interference, the decision is reversed and Cole is the winner.

WINNER: Cole via reverse decision at 0:58.

Cole started jumping up and down before Santino's music played. Santino emerged in the arena and said there is only one place left to find the mystery GM. Santino decided to look under the ring, but the GM buzzed in again. Mathews read from the GM, "No, I'm not." The email continued to leave the ring now. Santino decided that was a clue, so he went under the ring, but was pulled underneath. Lawler made the save, though, and yanked out Santino and... Hornswoggle. Everyone reset in the ring, where Swoggle shrugged his shoulders about being the GM tonight. Swoggle then left the ring as Cole, Lawler, and Santino tried to make something out of this segment. WWE cut to Booker and Mathews, who acted dumbfounded by these events. They cut to break with that image. Overall, one of those segments that makes you wonder why you even got out of bed in the morning.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & A.J. vs. DANIEL BRYAN & EVE

Punk and Bryan started things off trading blows as Cole talked about everything else, including events on tonight's show and what's to come in two weeks on the July 23 Raw recognizing 1,000 episodes. Punk had enough of Bryan, so he tagged in A.J., which meant Eve had to tag in. A.J. stalked Eve, then tackled her and "let her emotion pour out," according to Cole. Eve then wanted a tag to Bryan, but Bryan bailed on his tag partner, which allowed A.J. to roll up Eve from behind for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Punk & A.J. at 3:19.

More stuff happened after the match but I fell asleep. Hopefully for everyone's sake, it'll all end this Sunday but I doubt it.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2012, 03:58 am
TNA Impact Wrestling results: 7-12-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/tnaimpact/article_63266.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- JOSEPH PARK vs. BULLY RAY -- Anything Goes match

Ray taunted Park, who put up his dukes to square off against Ray. Park then stumbled across the ring, missing Ray, who slapped him across the back of the head to toy with Park. Four minutes into the show, Tenay referred to DirecTV customers unable to view Impact tonight. Tenay then told viewers to bring a friend over to watch Impact. Meanwhile, Ray continued to toy with Park before pulling out his phone to send out a tweet. Ray had enough of tweeting and went under the ring to retrieve a bunch of weapons to toss into the ring.

Ray went for a chair shot, but Park tackled him and landed sloppy rights and lefts. Park then picked up a chair and stalked Ray, who begged off as Park played to the crowd. The self-distraction allowed Ray to tackle Park and regain control of the action. Tenay then plugged the "first public appearance" by Aries tonight on Impact. So, he hasn't left his house since Sunday? In the ring, Bully set up Park for a big splash on a trashcan lid, but Park moved. Park then fired up with rights and lefts followed by an accidental shoulder tackle. And, Bully cut off Park once more.

Ray went under the ring again and retrieved a black bag, presumably of thumbtacks. Bully proceeded to dump the tacks in the ring, which Tenay noted is a trademark of Park's brother, Abyss. Ray then grabbed a mic and taunted Park before noting he's going to do to him what he should have done to his brother a long time ago. Suddenly, Park drove a cheese grater to Ray's crotchal region before delivering a kendo stick shot. Park made a cover, but Ray kicked out in time. Once again, Park's advantage was short-lived, as Ray regained control with a clothesline. Ray tried to finish off Park with a slam into the tacks, but Park executed a desperation slam into the tacks. It was only good for a two count, though. And, once again, Park's advantage was short-lived, as Ray came right back with a chain shot to the face for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Taz noted the match wasn't as easy for Bully Ray as he thought it would be. Park then stood up and had blood trickling down from his forehead. Ray taunted Park, who suddenly freaked out and hulked up at the sight of his blood. Park suddenly charged at Ray and delivered a Black Hole Slam center-ring. Park went back to being calm as Taz noted he just shocked himself with his actions. Tenay said that blood brought out the monster in Park.

WINNER: Ray at 8:08. The slow-build to Joseph Park realizing he's Abyss continues.

2 -- SAMOA JOE vs. ROB VAN DAM -- BFG Series match

RVD went for an early surfboard submission, selling desperation for points, but Joe easily reached the bottom rope for a break. After a mid-ring struggle that looked like a Sumo Wrestling match, RVD landed a spin kick, which angered Joe, who fired back with a running clothesline. RVD then bailed to the floor for a breather. Back in the ring, Joe slapped on a legbar submission, but RVD reached the ropes for a break. Joe followed with a snap powerslam into a cross arm-breaker submission, but RVD again hit the ropes.

The crowd tried to rally behind RVD, who stopped Joe's momentum with a series of kicks into Rolling Thunder across Joe's back. RVD made a pin for a close two count. In the corner, RVD wanted a monkey flip, but Joe blocked with a running chinbreaker into a figure-four leglock. RVD reached out for the ropes, but Joe pulled him back to center-ring, only to have RVD counter with an inside cradle for a quick pin and the win.

WINNER: RVD at 4:53 to earn 7 BFGS points. Interesting match that wasn't smooth at times, but had a good story of Joe getting greedy aiming for 10 points and RVD using that against him to get points.

3 -- X Division champion ZEMA ION vs. DAKOTA DARSOW -- non-title match

After Ion's cocky heel ring entrance, Darsow decked him with a right hand "fighting for Jesse Sorensen," as described by Tenay. Darsow continued the attack before clotheslining Ion to the outside. As the fight moved to the floor, Tenay offered another DirecTV note, which has nothing to do with the audience able to watch the show. Back in the ring, Darsow continued the assault before Ion came out of nowhere with a neck-snap finisher for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Ion continued the attack, applying an innovative shoulder submission trying to cause injury. Ion eventually dropped the hold as the audience sat quietly. Ion then grabbed the mic and said if Sorensen doesn't want to see any more of his friends get hurt, then Sorensen better realize he's "pretty f'n dangerous."

WINNER: Ion at 2:25. The tourist-based crowd remained very quiet tonight. Poor folks have no idea what's going on.

4 -- KO champion MISS TESSMACHER vs. GAIL KIM -- Knockouts Title match

Gail, angered like Bobby Roode seeing the title on someone else, was the aggressor early on. On commentary, Brooke said she's getting her sea legs under her after trying to settle into a Knockouts supervisory role. Brooke offered an announcement that Tessmacher is going to be on Spike TV's Comic Con All-Access Live show tomorrow night. Brooke added that she learned from her father, Hulk, that being humble gets you far.

Back in the ring, Tessmacher made a comeback with a faceplant. Brooke remained silent during Tessmacher's comeback before chiming in as Tessmacher came off the top rope with a flying elbow for the pin and the win. "I'm so proud of her," Brooke whispered on commentary. After a replay of the finish, Tenay thanked Brooke for joining them on commentary for this "important Knockouts Title match."

WINNER: Tessmacher at 5:24 to retain the KO Title. Brooke is under a microscope, so she seemed reluctant to dominate the conversation and let the announcers do their thing. The match was fine, but there was no sense of the title being in jeopardy.

5 -- KURT ANGLE vs. MR. ANDERSON -- BFG Series match

Anderson used Angle's over-aggressiveness against him early on, trying to slow things down with a mat-based armbar. Angle fired back with punches and stomps in the corner, driving Anderson to the mat before placing a boot on his face. Anderson came back with a dropkick, though, before walking right into a belly-to-belly suplex from Angle. Angle landed a boot to the face before Tenay sent the show to break with a quiet crowd in the background.

Back live post-commercial teaser, Angle was still in control. Anderson then landed a back suplex to get a breather. As the ref applied a ten count, Tenay went back to the DirecTV info, which is being relayed to people who don't have DirecTV. After the third reference, it comes across like Impact is trying to promote the DirecTV service to non-satellite customers.

Angle and Anderson exchanged close pin attempts before Tenay plugged Hogan & Sting "wanting to go old-school" tonight. Angle applied an anklelock at 10:15, and Anderson fought the hold for 30 seconds before Angle yanked Anderson back to center-ring. Anderson managed to break free, then hit the Mic Check on Angle for a super-close nearfall when Angle nearly did not roll the shoulder in-time. After both men sold on the mat, Angle beat Anderson to the punch with the Angle Slam for a decisive pin and the win.

Post-match: Angle came up bleeding heavily from the mouth. Meanwhile, Anderson rolled out of the ring as Angle celebrated in the ring. They cut to a shot of Anderson selling the ankle on the floor before cutting back to Angle, who was selling an injury to his shoulder or chest muscle as he slowly left the ring. Angle continued to bleed from the mouth, then shook off the pain and raised his arms in the air for the crowd.

WINNER: Angle at 11:42 to earn 7 BFGS points. Okay match. They didn't seem to get things started until late, then the finish seemingly came out of nowhere.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2012, 04:00 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_63274.shtml)

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. HUNICO

To change things up a bit, Scott Stanford is teamed with Matt Striker instead of Josh Mathews in the booth.

There's some nice technical work to start things off. Then they switch to a faster pace. A bit of a stiffer brawling style comes out as the intensity is turned up. Justin Gabriel with the Move of the Month: Hunico is on the outside and Gabriel jumps from the apron, lands on Hunico's shoulders, and huracanrana's him into the barrier in one smooth motion. Camacho looks stunned. I know I was. Camacho distracts Gabriel, letting Hunico recover a bit followed by a nice sequence of covers and reversals.

Gabriel with a crucifix pin attempt out of the break, but Hunico gains control. Gabriel with a flurry of kicks to get a nearfall. Hunico with a sick gutwrech almost-powerbomb for a nearfall. Hunico tosses Gabriel right over his head. Gabriel with a second rope moonsault, but he goes over Hunico, tries a neckbreaker, but Hunico reverses it into a reverse DDT for a close call. Hunico to the top rope, but Gabriel dodges the Swanton Bomb and gets a knee up to the back of Hunico's head, yikes. Gabriel floats over into the cover for two-and-seven-eighths. Gabriel to the top, but Camacho distracts him, so Hunico crotches Gabriel. Struggle on the turnbuckle, and Hunico wants a belly-to-back superplex, but in mid-air Gabriel reverses into a crossbody; Hunico rolls through the cover, grabs a fistful of tights, and steals the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 10:00. Every time these two meet, it is a clinic, and tonight raised the bar even further. Reversal after reversal, counters, and a variety of styles make this a must-see match.

2 - ALICIA FOX & KAITLYN vs. BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA - Tag Team Match

Before the match, when Phoenix's music came on, you can see a lot of folks in the ring going nuts for her. They really need to repair her character and make her a clear face or heel. There's just nothing heelish about her, and too many people respect her work and enjoy watching her dissect people to keep her heel. She's like Kane in that regard.

Fox and Natalya start, and Natalya take it to Fox. Fox spanks Natalya, so Natalya beats the snot out of her. Fox trades speed for power, and brings Kaitlyn in. Natalya takes Kaitlyn in the corner and Phoenix gets tagged in. Cross body takes Phoenix down for two. Fox clears the ring of both opponents. Phoenix can't believe that Fox is keeping up with her, and Natalya comes in, then Fox tags in Kaitlyn, whose knee the heels target. Kaitlyn can't get a break. The action breaks down, but Fox gets dumped out of the ring. Kaitlyn surprises Phoenix with an inside cradle for the win.

WINNERS: Alicia Fox and Kaitlyn in 4:50. I really feel like WWE is trying to find out if the audience will buy either Fox or Kaitlyn as a stand-in for Kelly Kelly. Matt Striker spent most of the match talking up Kaitlyn, but he usually does. I honestly think that Kaitlyn is the more likely of the two to pull it off, she has a better look, and a lot more charisma than Fox. The really need to have a Diva other than Beth Phoenix win a match with an actual move instead of a roll-up.

3. ALEX RILEY vs. JINDER MAHAL

The crowd is hot for Riley, as usual. They tussle for a while up-front, then Mahal finally gets the upper hand and proceeds with his usual offense. Riley with a short-lived comeback.

Mahal is still in charge. Striker: "What is a 'broski' anyways, is that Polish?" Riley is finally able to mount sustained offense. Riley to the top for a flying clothesline and a two count. Mahal wants the Camel Clutch, but Riley slips out and jackknifes for a two count. Riley dodges Mahal's running high knee, but whiffs on an enziguiri. Mahal struggles to get the Camel Clutch on, but when he does, Riley taps.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 10:30. Good match between these two. Alex Riley has an insane amount of crowd support, and WWE really should do something more with him considering he has good mic and in-ring skills.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 16 2012, 04:01 am
WWE Smackdown Results: 7-13-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63300.shtml) Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. SIN CARA

During Cara’s entrance, they replayed Del Rio beating him down on Raw two weeks ago before their scheduled match. Cara went after Del Rio with punches but Del Rio clotheslined Cara from his knees. Vertical suplex and a two-count from Del Rio. Following a missed corner charge, Cara again aggressively went after Del Rio. DDT for a near-fall. Del Rio missed a feet-first dive and went through the ropes. He landed on the apron, then took a spill to the floor when Cara kicked him in the head. Cara then dove through the ropes onto Del Rio. They cut to break at 2:43.

Back at 5:35 of the match. Cara was still on offense, until Del Rio chopped him and headbutted him when Cara went to the top rope. Shoulder-breaker by ADR for two at 6:16. Cara attempted a comeback, but was felled with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Del Rio isolated the shoulder and went to work on it. Missed charge by Del Rio led to a headscissors take-down by Cara. DDT by Cara (Del Rio flipped before he took the brunt of the move) for a near-fall. Cara went off the top but missed a Swanton. Del Rio smelled blood and applied the cross arm-breaker for the submission win.

WINNER: Del Rio, at 9:35. One of Cara’s longer singles matches in his WWE tenure. He got more offense in than I expected, but he’s on the PPV too so they probably wanted to keep him relatively strong.

2 – DARREN YOUNG vs. PRIMO

Both men’s tag partners were at ringside with them, as well as Rosa Mendes. A.W. again had the mic gimmick where his headset was heard throughout the arena. Primo got his boots up on a charge then took Young down with a flying headscissors off the second rope. Primo and Titus O’Neil shared some unpleasantries outside the ring. Back in, Primo walked into a hot-shot from Young. Young dropped a leg across the throat of Primo on the apron. Neck-breaker by Young for two. Primo turned the tide with chops and a springboard cross-body. However, Young rolled through and put Primo on his shoulders. Backstabber by Primo was attempted, but Young held the ropes. Inside cradle by Primo for the win.

WINNER: Primo, at 4:07. Fine match, but it looks like the tag division is falling victim to everyone trading wins and no one getting over. The PTP’ers should be put over strong heading into their tag title match.

3 – CHRISTIAN & SANTINO MARELLA vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & CODY RHODES

Rhodes pointed to the MITB briefcase hanging above the ring after a shoulder knock-down of Christian. Well, it’s not the Wrestlemania banner, but it’ll do. Christian worked the arm and tagged Santino in. “I want nothing to do with you,” Rhodes told Marella. He tagged out to Ziggler to avoid facing the United States Champion. Ziggler got the better of Santino, leading to Marella hip-tossing Ziggler out of the corner. Booker admitted that looking back on it, he didn’t try as hard as he should have to win the MITB match he was in. Christian fought out of the heel corner, but was thrown off on a Tornado DDT attempt. Patented Ziggler dropkick for two. Cole proclaimed Ziggler his favorite to win the MITB match. Rhodes took Christian up for a suplex, let him think about it, then brought him back down. The announcing was just a mess here. Marella tagged in as did Ziggler. Marella connected on his signature moves before bringing out the Cobra. Rhodes attacked him from behind, but Christian deal with him. Ziggler hit the Zig Zag on Marella for three.

WINNERS: Ziggler and Rhodes, at 5:35. I’d almost prefer a TNA-like presentation where the guys are interviewed backstage about what winning MITB would mean to them, a la the BFG Series interviews, rather than tag matches that don’t really build much for the match.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. THE GREAT KHALI

Show and Khali exchanged chops, which I’m convinced is the only way fans can get into their matches. Khali celebrated, but Show nailed him out of nowhere with a knockout punch.

WINNER: Show, at :34. Good strong showing for Show heading into the MITB.

5 – TYLER REKS vs. RYBACK

During the entrance of Reks and Curt Hawkins, they showed Hawkins getting destroyed by Ryback last week. Reks got the mic and said he’d hand Ryback his very first loss tonight. Reks took the fight to Ryback in the corner with boots and punches, but he made the mistake of hitting the ropes. Ryback connected on a big boot, then sent him to the outside. Mathews said Ryback eats 8-10 large meals every day. Belly-to-belly suplex by Ryback. Some more offense for Reks before a clothesline decked him. Finisher by Ryback ended it.

WINNER: Ryback, at 1:50. I love the “It’s Monday” sign someone had in the crowd. Ryback at least gets to show off more (safer) moves when he’s climbing the ladder of competition.

6 – JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. DAMIEN SANDOW

No pre-match comments from Sandow. Back heel trip by Gabriel after he landed on his feet on a hip-toss attempt. Side Russian leg sweep, then an elbowdrop for two at :28. Kick to the back of the head by Gabriel, but Sandow grabbed him and gave him a number of knees to the mid-section. Neck-tie neck-breaker from Sandow for the win.

WINNER: Sandow, at 1:28. Still haven’t seen much of Sandow in the ring to make a judgment call about his work, so it’ll be interesting to see him on Sunday.

7 – SHEAMUS vs. CHRIS JERICHO

The match began as soon as the show returned from break. Jericho made the mistake of slapping Sheamus, which only made the Great White angrier. Jericho went to ringside, then back in when he was chased. Sheamus propelled himself into the ring over the top rope, catching Jericho with a shoulder tackle. Dropkick by Jericho caught the World Champ by surprise. Sheamus came back with knees in the corner, then those overhead forearms he’s known for. He bumped Jericho off the apron and onto the announce table at ringside. Sheamus sent Jericho head-first into the apron, then they cut to the final break at 3:06.

Back at 6:02, with Cole noting that it was a brawl at ringside during most of the time away. Jericho missed a corner charge and went shoulder-first into the ring post. Knee-lift found the mark on Jericho, as did a back-breaker for two at 7:20. An eye rake by Jericho turned the tide, but Sheamus shrugged off a Codebreaker. Sheamus got hung up on the top rope on a Brogue Kick attempt and Jericho dropkicked him. Lionsault hit for a two-count. Again, Jericho’s attacked was not sustained. Jericho countered Sheamus to lock in the Walls of Jericho. Sheamus reached the bottom rope, forcing a break. White Noise was turned into the Walls again. He had this one in for some time before Sheamus finally reversed the move after coming close to tapping out. Jericho ran at Sheamus, but Sheamus hit White Noise for only a two-count. Both men were slow to re-group, but Sheamus signaled for the Brogue Kick. He missed and Jericho connected on the Codebreaker. Jericho, still struggling to get his bearings, crawled to a cover. Sheamus kicked out at two at 12:26. Sheamus came off the top and Jericho caught him with a Codebreaker. Both men doing a good job of selling the effects of the match here. Sheamus again kicked out at two. Jericho yelled for Sheamus to get up, and as he ran toward him Sheamus Brogue Kicked him.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 14:50.

The finish was replayed and Sheamus began to walk to the back with the title. Even the TitanTron read “Zackdown” instead of “Smackdown.” When Sheamus reached the top of the ramp, Alberto Del Rio’s music hit. His car came out to its usual spot in the arena, but Del Rio attacked Sheamus from behind with a kick to the head. Del Rio kicked Sheamus off the stage and applied the cross arm-breaker on Sheamus against the stage. Rodriguez was the one driving the car. Referees came out to break up Del Rio’s attack. They played his music to end the show.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on July 30 2012, 04:13 am
The remaining wrestling results for the month of July can be found at the Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread. Link is below by signature picture.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 01 2012, 07:08 am
WWE RAW Results: 7-30-12 (next 2 posts)

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_63818.shtml) Very condensed here since it's now a three hour show and 'taking you back at what happened moments ago' or 'here's what went down last week' really does stretch out a show.

HOUR ONE- Fire before the start of the show so no pyros tonight. Lots of CM Punk to kick off the show though.

1 -- U.S. champion SANTINO vs. ALBERTO DEL RIO -- non-title match

Del Rio picked apart Santino, testing the limits of the referee's five count. Santino suddenly found some offense and knocked Del Rio to the outside. Del Rio acted stunned as they cut to commercial. Yes, this match is getting two segments instead of being a basic squash.

Back live, Del Rio was in control of the match as Cole requested Tout responses to Punk's explanation in the opening segment. Del Rio continued to work over Santino before applying an arm submission. Santino escaped, then fought back, only to take a knee to the temple. Del Rio continued a slow assault on Santino, who suddenly yanked out the Cobra, only to take a smash into the ringpost. Del Rio then slapped on the cross arm-breaker and Santino was forced to tap out.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 7:35. When people were thinking about matches they would like to see given extended TV time now that Raw is three hours, this isn't what people had in mind. Apparently one-minute squash matches will be extended another 5-10 minutes to fill the time going forward.

HOUR TWO- Yes, one extended squash match and a whole lot of recapping events.

2 -- World Hvt. champion SHEAMUS vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title match -- Street Fight

Bryan started the match with kick blasts to Sheamus, who absorbed the blows before delivering a backbreaker for a two count. Bryan came back with a corner kick targeting Sheamus's arm. Meanwhile, Lawler congratulated A.J. on a job well-done so far tonight. The match moved to the floor, where Sheamus rammed Bryan into the guardrail before back-dropping him onto the entrance ramp. The match moved to the stage, where Sheamus bounced Bryan's head off the platform WWE logo. Sheamus took too much time playing to the crowd, allowing Bryan to cut off Sheamus before delivering multiple Yes! kicks. Bryan then built some momentum and dropkicked Sheamus off the stage to the floor below. Sheamus sold an ankle injury, then Bryan came flying off the stage with a running kick. Bryan was in control heading to break.

Back live on Raw, Bryan was working on Sheamus's left arm while shouting, "Yes!" toward the crowd. Sheamus eventually broke free of Bryan's submission hold before accepting a knee to the gut. Bryan then dropkicked Sheamus through the ropes as Cole noted Eve is not happy with A.J. as the new Raw GM.

The match moved to the floor, where Sheamus overhead-slammed Bryan into the guardrail after intercepting Bryan in mid-air. Sheamus then spread out Bryan across the guardrail and landed his trademark Ten Punches to the chest. Sheamus followed with a suplex over the guardrail to the floor. Sheamus then went under the ring and retrieved a chair and Kendo Stick. Bryan quickly pushed both out of the ring, so Sheamus clotheslined Bryan over the top rope to the floor. Sheamus was slow to follow up, which allowed Bryan to blast Sheamus across the face with a Kendo Stick. Bryan followed with multiple stick shots inside the ring as the crowd chanted, "No!" with each blow.

Bryan left the ring to retrieve the chair, then wedged it in the corner. Sheamus used the interval to retrieve the stick and blast Bryan with it, but then Bryan ducked a stick shot and dropkicked Sheamus and the stick into the chair in the corner. Big oohs from the crowd. Bryan made a cover, but Sheamus kicked out in-time. On the floor again, Sheamus recovered and blasted Bryan with multiple weapon shots. Bryan and Sheamus teased moves, then Bryan shoved Sheamus into the ringpost.

As Sheamus recovered ringside, Bryan slid ring steps into the ring, then whipped Sheamus into the ringside guardrail. Back in the ring, Bryan tried to grab the Kendo Stick, but Sheamus intercepted, leading to a tug of war. Sheamus then yanked Bryan into him, walked up the ring steps, and wanted White Noise, but Bryan shoved him away. But, Sheamus rebounded off the ropes and nailed a Brogue Kick onto the ring steps. Sheamus yanked Bryan off the steps to the mat and covered him for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 14:06. When people were thinking about matches they would like to see given extended TV time now that Raw is three hours, this is what people had in mind. Another excellent TV match on Bryan's resume and Sheamus continues to grow as a top babyface being able to back up his championship status with tough-guy wins. (***)

3 -- WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/WWE tag champion R-Truth vs. TITUS O'NEIL (w/Darren Young and AW)

As Titus took control early on, AW offered a very dated joke about Titus being like Kobe Bryant at a hotel in Colorado. A more relevant attempted joke would have been Kobe losing his shirt at a party in London. Titus continued to dominate Kofi before Kofi came back with a flying clothesline into the Boom Drop. Young decided now was the time to get involved, which drew Truth onto the ring apron to clothesline him. AW then shouted at Kofi before throwing his shoe at his back. Kofi turned around, grabbed the shoe, and chucked AW's shoe toward him on the entrance ramp. But, Kofi turned around and ate the Clash of Titus for the pin and the win. Cue up AW's post-match celebration.

WINNER: O'Neil at 2:52.

HOUR THREE- I heard someone said this was a great two hour show...that was unfortunately stretched into three.

4 -- RANDY ORTON vs. HEATH SLATER

Slater was the aggressor early on, driving Orton into the corner. But, Orton came back with punches, clotheslines, and a trademark snap powerslam. Orton then set up Slater for a trademark DDT from the second rope and connected. The crowd was nuts for Orton, who got into position for the RKO. Orton got ready to strike and connected with the RKO center-ring. Orton with the pin for the win. Afterward, Orton let out two months of pent-up energy with a post-match celebration in front of a hot crowd. WWE replayed the high points from Orton's return before cutting back live to show Orton standing tall in the corner.

WINNER: Orton at 1:18. That's a return.

5 -- CHRIS JERICHO & CHRISTIAN vs. IC champion THE MIZ & DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Just before the bell sounded, the announcers stressed Raw permanently moving to three hours. Ziggler and Christian started things off, Ziggler showed off, and Christian popped Ziggler in the face to begin things. Ziggler had enough of Christian, so Miz tagged in. Miz took offense from Christian, then decided to tag in Ziggler. Christian then tagged in Jericho, which led to Ziggler tagging out to Miz. Lots of gamesmanship early on. Jericho then took control of the match by clotheslining Ziggler over the top rope, dumping Miz to the outside, and setting up Christian for a flying splash from the top rope. The heels recovered on the floor as Raw went to break.

Back from break, Cleveland was on top of Canada on points. Meanwhile, Vickie was shown holding Ziggler's MITB briefcase, prepared to use it as a weapon. Jericho eventually tagged in Christian, who decked Ziggler with right hands, then landed a slap to the face. Christian followed with an elbow smash from the second rope, then a sunset flip for a close two count. Christian continued to show aggressiveness, smashing Miz off the ring apron, but then ran into a dropkick from Ziggler for a close two count. The heels then worked over Christian for a few minutes, but they were unable to put Christian away.

Jericho eventually took a hot tag at 12:00 and cleaned house. Jericho bulldogged Miz, then went for the Lionsault and connected. The action broke down with all four men in the ring, then Christian snapped Ziggler with a spear. But, Miz posted Christian. Jericho then caught Miz with the Walls of Jericho, but Miz countered out and then big-booted Jericho. Impressive. Miz wanted the Skullcrushing Finale, and WWE inexplicably went to a split-screen replay, which gave away that Jericho would escape Miz's finisher. After Jericho escaped, Christian smashed Miz from behind, which led to Jericho landing a Codebreaker on Miz for the pin.

WINNERS: Jericho & Christian at 13:23. Solid, very physical tag match. The post-match continued to build toward Jericho-Ziggler at Summerslam...

Post-match, Ziggler smashed Jericho from behind with his MITB briefcase. Ziggler stood over Jericho, then left the ring to stand tall with Vickie. They cut to a shot of Jericho, who had a small cut on his forehead, as he recovered in the ring.

Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 01 2012, 07:14 am
6 -- TENSAI vs. TYSON KIDD

Tensai waited for Kidd to wear himself out, then began dominating Kidd. Meanwhile, the vocal males picked up an "Albert, Albert" chant. Kidd was shown bleeding from the forehead as the camera zoomed in on Kidd as he was locked in a submission. Kidd broke free, then nearly scored a pin on a roll-up. Kidd followed with a top-rope Blockbuster, but Tensai kicked out in time. Kidd tried to follow with strikes, but Tensai blasted him with a two-hand bomb. Tensai followed with a giant splash for the pin and the win.

Post-match, Tensai picked up Kidd and dismantled him with clotheslines and power offense as the ref called for the bell. Tensai then finished off Kidd with a shoulderbreaker. The referee had enough and decided to reverse his decision and award Kidd the win. More refs then came out to try to get Tensai out of the ring as Sakamoto stood off in the corner. Tensai then brought Sakamoto toward him, slapped him, and chucked Sakamoto out of the ring. Raw cut to another Bryan segment.

WINNER: Kidd via reverse decision at 2:14. There's just no sense of advancement for the Tensai character.

7 -- JOHN CENA vs. BIG SHOW -- #1 contender match to WWE Title

As the crowd picked up a dueling chant of "Let's Go Cena / Cena Sucks," Show knocked down Cena and began dismantling him very early on. Cena sold near-unconsciousness less than a minute in as Show taunted him. Cole then rattled off the names of past WWE champions who Punk could surpass if he remains champion another month. Show continued to slowly dismantle Cena as Punk cut a promo on Lawler's commentary and the crowd continued their dueling chant. Show then missed with a big open-hand slap and Cena hopped on Show's back to apply a modified sleeperhold. Show fought the hold, then rammed Cena into the corner to escape. But, Cena reversed a powerslam into another sleeperhold. Punk and Lawler continued to trade barbs as Cena put Show on the mat with the sleeper. Show then fell on the mat and Cena covered Show, but Show press-slammed Cena clear out of the ring to escape the pin attempt. They cut to break with Punk intently watching the TV monitor.

Back from break, Show was in control of the action as Cole reset the match. Cena tried to fight back against Show, but ran into a brick-wall. Show then stepped across Cena's chest before taunting the ringside fans. Show then squashed Cena in the corner and taunted Punk ringside, asking him how he's going to stop him. Punk said he thinks it's great that Show is more concerned with him at ringside than his opponent right now. Lawler then asked Punk about whether he's changed since becoming champ. Punk said he thinks the WWE champion should be spotlighted and respected. Lawler retorted that the title should be respected, but not necessarily the champion.

At 10:00, Show locked Cena in a bearhug center-ring. Cena tried fighting the hold as Show tried to tighten his grip. Cena fought out, then tried a bodyslam, but Show fell on top of Cena for a two count. Show then called for the Chokeslam as Cena slowly made his way to his feet. Show grabbed Cena around the throat, but Cena countered with a mid-air DDT. Both men sold on the mat before Cena reached his feet, charged Show, and ran into a sidewalk slam from Show.

At the top of the hour, Show slowly pulled himself to his feet, then climbed to the second rope. Show wanted a Vader Bomb, but Cena rolled out of the way just in time. Cena then landed a shoulder tackle that took Show off his feet. Cena followed with a sit-out slam, then called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle. He delivered it, Show popped to his feet, and grabbed Cena around the throat for a giant chokeslam. Show immediately covered Cena, but Cena kicked out just before three. Cena then rolled out of the ring as WWE replayed Show's atomic wedgie chokeslam that only resulted in a nearfall.

The match moved to ringside, where Show rolled Cena back into the ring. Show then punched Cena in the gut and Cena rolled to the outside again. Show and Cena had an exchange that resulted in Show shoving Cena clear over the announce table into Punk's lap, knocking out both men. Show rolled back into the ring as the ref began applying a ten count, then Cena leaped back into the ring just before ten. Show grimaced as Punk sold a shoulder injury resting on the floor next to the announce table.

At 16:00, Show called for the KO Punch as Cena slowly recovered across the ring. Cena ducked the KO Punch, though, then lifted up Show for an AA. However, Punk entered the ring and blasted Cena, causing the match to be thrown out without a decision.

WINNER: No Contest at 16:17.

Post-match: Punk then popped Show in the head with a kick. Lawler said he knows the bell has rung, but he doesn't know what the decision is. Punk continued to sell his shoulder as Show and Cena remained KO'ed in the ring.

Punk then slipped out of the ring, yanked the mic from Justin Roberts, grabbed his title belt, and returned to the ring. Punk said the winner of this contest is...nobody. Punk said they are both losers. Punk dropped the mic and left the ring as both Cena and Show sold in the ring. Punk shook off his shoulder, then marched up the stage. Punk was about to leave with focus on him, but A.J. emerged on-stage. Punk kept walking and disappeared, then A.J. announced that Punk will defend his WWE Title at Summerslam against Big Show...pause...and John Cena in a triple threat match. A.J. smiled, then Punk re-emerged on-stage and told A.J. that she's crazy. Punk told her she's a bad GM. He shouted that A.J. can't do this to him. Punk told A.J. to show him some respect as A.J. just smiled and batted her eyes. They signed off six minutes past the top of the hour with Punk furious with A.J.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 20 2012, 09:04 am
Due to circumstances beyond my control, there will no longer be Wrestling results posted in this messageboard at this time however I will continue to post results in the following forums:

ComicBloc Forum: Official Wrestling Thread (http://www.comicbloc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=414)
-Membership to forum required to view the thread.
-Lots of discussions plus usual real-time RAW posts every Monday.

Neo-Geo Forum: Official WWE Thread (http://www.neo-geo.com/forums/showthread.php?33173-offical-wwe-thread)
-Membership not required to view thread however required to participate in discussions.
-Over 8 years of posted TV and PPV results.

Both threads also have real-time pay-per-view posts when available.

Hopefully the wrestling thread in this messageboard will continue on with discussions and if time permits, I may post upcoming news and information. Thank you for allowing me to set up and enhance a wrestling thread and I apologize for any inconvenience that may occur from my personal decision to no longer carry results in this forum and/or messageboard. Thank you.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 07 2013, 08:58 am
William Moody passed away at 58 today. Better known to the most of the world as Paul Bearer, the manager and father of The Undertaker and Kane. Here's a nice tribute via PWInsider.com:

WILLIAM 'PAUL BEARER' MOODY PASSES AWAY
 By Mike Johnson on 2013-03-05 23:11:02
 We are heartbroken to report the passing of William "Paul Bearer" Moody, one of the top managers of the 1980s and 1990s. He would have been 59 next month.
 
Details aren't known as of this writing, but Moody had openly told several that he hadn't been feeling well for some time. He had pulled himself off some of his regular bookings next month, citing that he wasn't feeling well.
 
Moody was a lifelong wrestling fan (he and Michael Hayes were friends way before either broke into the business) before breaking in the Gulf Coast area as a photographer. After serving in the military, he returned to pro wrestling as a manager in Championship Wrestling from Florida, Percy Pringle III, not realizing at the time that he was indeed the third person to use the name.
 
Pringle would move onto World Class Championship Wrestling, where his high pitched promos, heavyset body and platinum blonde hair provided the perfect foil for the buff, cut, ripped, chiseled and jacked Rick Rude, who had a run as the World Class champion. He also managed the Dingo Warrior, who would go on to morph into the more famous Ultimate Warrior.
 
Amazingly, the Pringle character would eventually turn babyface, aligning with Eric Embry in his war against Skandar Akbar's Devastation, Inc. during a storyline that saw the USWA name replace the WCCW name during a time period where the Jarretts took over control of the company from the Von Erichs. While the storyline was entertaining as hell (and still holds up today), it was also the last hurrah for the promotion and in some ways, Texas wrestling.
 
In 1990, Pringle signed with WWE (WWE actually signed Konnan the same day, although his run was much shorter) and was immediately paired with The Undertaker after being re-christened as Paul Bearer. With jet black hair and ghoulish make-up, Moody was the perfect mouthpiece and mascot for the Undertaker during the heyday of Taker's undead persona, leading the way to the ring while carrying the mystical urn that held the power of the Undertaker.
 
The two were immediately inseparable as an act. Moody was in many ways born to play the role, as he was, in real life, an actual mortician, a job he returned to after leaving WWE full-time.
 
We all know the story. The streak. WWF title runs. Feuds with Ultimate Warrior, Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Mankind and any and every major name that came through the WWF and WWE doors from 1990 on. The duo were made to be together.
 
But in pro wrestling, nothing is ever forever and WWF actually booked Pringle to turn on Undertaker to side with Mick Foley's Mankind. The heel turn led to the introduction of another of WWE's longest tenured performers, Kane, who was the illegitimate son of Paul Bearer and Undertaker's mother in a story so convoluted that WWE jumped back and forth over the lines of good taste and continuity in order to tell it.
 
In the end, Undertaker went back to the dark side and was reunited with Bearer again. The pair remained together until 2000 when Moody was removed from TV and worked for the company as a talent scout and road agent/producer. He eventually left and made some forgotten appearances in TNA.
 
WWE wanted him back but Moody initially refused, citing his weight. It had gotten away from him and he was morbidly obsese, by his own admission. WWF signed him and paid for Moody to undergo gastric bypass surgery. Moody would tell everyone that WWE saved and lengthened his life with the surgery.
 
The Bearer persona returned with the return of the undead version of the Undertaker at Wrestlemania 20. Fittingly, it was against Kane. He remained with Taker until a silly storyline where he was kidnapped by Paul Heyman and the Dudley Boyz that climaxed with Bearer trapped in a concrete crypt and if Undertaker didn't agree to lose to the Dudleys, a switch would be thrown, filling the chamber. Undertaker won the match, then flipped the switch, effectively killing off the character, although since WWE didn't "do" murder - the explanation was that Bearer was badly hurt and he was written off.
 
Moody was done with the company at that point, but returned to once again turn on Undertaker during a storyline feud with Kane during another reprisal of that feud. This led to a storyline where Edge later kidnapped him to torment Kane. Beyond a few cameos for comedic purposes, including a funny bit where Kane left him trapped in a meat freezer, the Bearer character was not used again.
 
Moody was still active, however on the indy scene, working as a manager and appearing at different conventions and signings. He popped up in ROH for a show and filmed a number of excellent DVD interviews about his career. He was a regular on Championship Wrestling from Hollywood TV. He tried his hands at promoting independently in the Gulf Coast and was very proud of his son, Michael, getting into the business. He regularly conversed with fans via Twitter, Facebook and his website. Through it all, he loved pro wrestling as much as he did when he was just a fan.
 
There are going to be a lot of people very saddened by Moody's passing and with good reason. He was loved by just about everyone. I talk to a lot of wrestlers and all of them have gripes and complaints about each other, promoters, etc. I can't remember one negative thing ever said about the man. In pro wrestling, that's pretty damn rare.
 
If there is one silver lining, it's that Moody is no longer left behind by his late wife Dianna, who passed away following a long battle with cancer. Moody spoke often and lovingly of her and how much he missed her, both privately and publicly during interviews. There was an obvious sadness and pain that he never recovered from after she passed away. One can only hope they are happily reunited in whatever the next world truly is.
 
There's no doubt that Percy, as everyone called him, left a unique, colorful mark on the world of pro wrestling. More importantly, he left as much of a mark on everyone he encountered. He was a good man. For all of that and so much more that can't ever be properly conveyed with words, we thank him. We will deeply miss him here at PWInsider.com, where he was a very good friend and supporter of the site.
 
We'd like to again express our deepest condolences to Percy's friends, family and fans. He was one of a kind.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 03:50 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report). (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_69830.shtml)
Pre-Show Match...
 
A -- IC champion WADE BARRETT vs. THE MIZ -- Intercontinental Title match
 
The stadium looked completely packed, unlike during the pre-show last year in Miami when empty seats could be seen atop the stadium. In the ring, Barrett controlled the action early on as the crowd felt out the match. Barrett cut off Miz's comeback, then teased The Bullhammer elbow, but Miz ducked. Miz flowed right into the figure-four leglock center-ring. Barrett reached for the ropes, then finally reached back to grab the bottom rope.
 
Barrett then used the ref to cause confusion allowing Barrett to nail Wasteland for a very close two count. Miz then took down Barrett by the ankle and flowed right into the figure-four leglock. It appeared he practiced that all week, as it looked clean. Barret then tapped out, giving Miz the win and the IC Title. After the match, Miz celebrated in the ring, then celebrated with family members on the front row.
 
WINNER: Miz via submission at 4:06 to capture the Intercontinental Title.
 
Of note, it's now raining in the stadium.

The opening match is Orton, Sheamus and Big Show vs The Shield.

Hunker down folks...it's going to be a long night.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 04:00 am
1 -- RANDY ORTON & SHEAMUS & BIG SHOW vs. THE SHIELD (SETH ROLLINS & DEAN AMBROSE & ROMAN REIGNS) -- six-man tag match

WrestleMania started with Sheamus and Reigns battling in the ring. Sheamus had enough of battling Reigns, so he tagged in Orton, who teed off on Rollins, who also tagged into the match. Orton got the crowd fired up, then Orton tagged in Sheamus as Big Show sold slight frustration not receiving the tag. Ambrose tagged in next for The Shield, then walked into a powerslam from Sheamus.

Show had enough of waiting on the outside, so he slapped Sheamus to make a tag. Orton and Sheamus tried to remain calm, then Show welcomed Ambrose to WrestleMania by opening up his protective vest and chopping away at his chest. But, Ambrose came back with a dropkick to the knee to take down Show. Shield then began exchanging tags working on Show.

Show eventually broke free and tagged in Sheamus, who cleaned house on Shield. Sheamus then ripped off Rollins's protective vest to open up his chest for the Ten Forearm Strikes in the corner. He followed with ten forearms to Ambrose's already-exposed chest. Back in the ring, Sheamus dropped Ambrose and Rollins with rolling drops before climbing to the top rope. But, Reigns knocked down Sheamus to the floor. This brought over Orton to battle, then Rollins went flying through the ropes for an attempted suicide dive, but he missed Orton and ate the guardrail.

Back in the ring, Shield set up Sheamus for the triple powerbomb and Reigns delivered it simultaneous to Show re-entering the scene to spear Ambrose. Bodies everywhere in the ring. After a reset, Sheamus crawled across the ring to tag Show, but Orton tapped Sheamus on the head to enter the match before Show got the tag. Orton cleaned house on Shield as the camera focused on Show trying to remain calm. Orton then stalked Ambrose for the RKO, but he turned to RKO Rollins in mid-air. But, Orton ate a spear from Reigns a split-second later. Ambrose then covered Orton for the pin and the win.

On the apron, Show just watched in frustration as Orton slowly rolled out of the ring. JBL said this could be the greatest three-man team in history. Shield then left the ring and disappeared through the crowd while the face trio regrouped. Show asked Orton what he was thinking, then started jawing. Sheamus then entered the ring to play peacemaker, but Show awkwardly jabbed Sheamus with the KO Punch. Orton asked what he's doing, then Show took out Orton.

WINNERS: Shield at 10:35. Basic storytelling of Team Show unable to work together as individuals on one team. Meanwhile, Shield continues to pick up impressive wins. (**1/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 04:22 am
2 -- MARK HENRY vs. RYBACK

As the sun set on MetLife Stadium, the two big-men came together for a face-to-face greeting. The crowd was buzzing for the match-up before the two men collided mid-ring. They started trading bombs, with more boos than cheers for Ryback. Henry then destroyed Ryback with a body-press splash that put Ryback on the mat. Henry then delivered a running powerslam for a one count.

After a reset, Ryback tried to suplex Henry, but Henry blocked and lifted Ryback over the top rope onto the ring apron. Henry then ran Ryback shoulder-first into the ringpost. Back in the ring, Henry targeted Ryback's lower back to slow down the pace as various crowd signs became the focal point, including a "Win for Ware" sign referring to Louisville basketball player Kevin Ware who went Sid Justice in the Elite Eight last Sunday. Henry had enough of the bearhug and rammed Ryback to the floor. "That's what I do!" Henry shouted as Ryback recovered on the floor.

Ryback re-entered the ring and Henry re-engaged the bearhug. Ryback tried to escape, but Henry continued to punish his back. Henry then scoop-slammed Ryback before reapplying the bearhug, drawing boos from a restless crowd. Ryback finally broke free and drove Henry to the corner to escape. Ryback then shoulder-shrugged the crowd in a Feed Me More chant before smashing Henry with a clothesline.

Ryback wanted to finish Henry and he delivered Shell-Shock, but appeared to injure himself. They went to a finish where Henry fell on top of Ryback, squashing his head. Ryback sold unconsciousness, then Henry rolled over Ryback and pinned him for a clean win, shocking the crowd.

Post-match, trainers checked on Ryback, then Henry decided he wasn't done and tried to punish Ryback some more, but Ryback clotheslined him. Ryback then delivered Shell-Shock to save face and get his heat back. It appeared Ryback was on the verge of tears as he leaned against the ropes trying to celebrate for the crowd.

WINNER: Henry at 8:03. It's time for Henry to get back in the World Title picture after this victory. Meanwhile, Ryback continues to carry the label of "Can't Win The Big One." Slow at times, but an overall good big-man battle. (**1/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 04:42 am
3 -- WWE tag champions DANIEL BRYAN & KANE vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & BIG E. LANGSTON (w/A.J. Lee) -- WWE Tag Title match

After the bell sounded, Ziggler asked for A.J. to hop on the ring apron for a good-luck kiss as D-Bryan watched. They played off Bryan's 18-second World Title loss to Sheamus at last year's Mania, then Ziggler turned around and ate a kick to the head from Bryan. Bryan covered, but Ziggler kicked out just before three. Great 23-second intro. After they played off WM28, Big E. tagged in to start displaying his power. Big E. and Ziggler then began exchanging tags working on Kane. Meanwhile, Lawler cracked a Civil War joke that A.J.'s family is so crazy that she fought for the East. Cole and JBL let that sit, no-sold, and went back to calling the match.

Kane made a comeback against Ziggler as Cole tried an "air-traffic control" line before Kane crashed to the mat when Ziggler ducked. Ziggler then tried a top-rope move, but Kane intercepted with a smash to the face. Kane tried to cover Ziggler, but Big E. flew onto Kane with a big splash to his back. Big E. dropped his straps and wanted a power-move on Kane, but Kane flung him to the outside, where Bryan knee-smashed Big. Back in the ring, Ziggler surprised Kane with the Zig-Zag, but Kane kicked out.

After a reset, A.J. tried to get involved, but she didn't help. Kane then chokeslammed Ziggler before tagging in Bryan, who came off the top with a diving headbutt as A.J. freaked out ringside. Bryan covered Ziggler and it was good for the win, with the timekeeper ringing the bell in-between two and three for good measure.

Ringside, A.J. freaked out, then tried to help her men recover as Bryan and Kane stood triumphantly in the ring, now on the same page and still tag champions. WWE then went to a slow-motion replay of Kane's chokeslam, with Ziggler having a terrific facial expression selling the move.

WINNERS: Kane & Bryan at 6:18. No break-up and no title change. Team Hell No must continue. Big E. was impressive in his limited role, while Ziggler submitted another rent check in his enhancement spot. Whether it's a misdirection for Ziggler to cash in MITB tonight or tomorrow remains to be seen. (**1/2)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 04:57 am
4 -- CHRIS JERICHO vs. FANDANGO

After the bell sounded, Fandango danced and strutted around the ring. Jericho had enough and speared Fandango for a quick two count. Fandango then did a back-flip over Jericho, posed, and Jericho codebroke him out of the ring. Jericho then splashed Fandango on the outside and rolled him back into the ring. Back in the ring, Fandango surprised Jericho with a kick to the face. Fandango then did a dance-pose over Jericho, prompting JBL to cut a promo on Fandango for posing at WrestleMania when facing a future Hall of Famer.

At 5:00, Jericho made his comeback. Jericho with a Thesz Press, then repeated punches to the face. Jericho lost control, though, and Fandango made a comeback. Fandango climbed to the top rope and nailed the surfboard leg drop, but Jericho kicked out in-time. JBL said that's got to be it for Fandango's upset attempt. Jericho then tripped Fandango on the top rope, causing Fandango to drop to the mat.

Jericho reset, then placed Fandango on the top turnbuckle. Jericho wanted a superplex, but Fandango headbutted Jericho to the mat. Fandango then went for a second surfboard leg drop, but Jericho moved. Jericho wanted the Lionsault, missed, and sold that he tweaked his knee. But, Jericho tried to go for the Walls of Jericho, but Fandango rolled him up and scored a clean three count.

Post-match, Fandango rolled out of the ring, shocked with his victory as JBL said this is a huge upset. Fandango danced with his dancer as Jericho recovered in the ring, then limped across the ring, selling the knee injury.

WINNER: Fandango at 9:10. Fandango held his own and looked good in the ring. Good use of Jericho to establish a new star if WWE follows through. Overall, lots of surprising outcomes tonight, trying to plant seeds that Punk can beat Taker's Streak tonight.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 05:25 am
5 -- World Hvt. champion ALBERTO DEL RIO (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Zeb Colter) -- World Title match

Del Rio knocked Swagger to the outside after the opening bell, then kicked him into the announce table. Back in the ring, Swagger took control and tried to run Del Rio into the ringpost, but Del Rio kicked him away, targeting the shoulder. Del Rio then kicked Swagger in the head repeatedly. But, Swagger kicked Del Rio in the left knee to slow him down. Moments later, Del Rio came back with a release German Suplex. The crowd, restless, began chanting for something they wanted - either Ziggler, Ryder, or something else.

At 7:00, Swagger found an opening to slap on the Patriot Lock. The crowd didn't buy the teaser of Del Rio submitting, then Del Rio countered into the cross arm-breaker. Swagger pushed Del Rio away, then countered into the Patriot Lock, which got a reaction this time. Del Rio reached the bottom rope for a break, then tried to re-apply, but Del Rio remained in the ropes.

Swagger wanted a Swagger Bomb, but Del Rio slipped out and kicked Swagger in the head. Both men recovered on the mat, then Del Rio delivered an enziguiri kick, but Colter put Swagger's foot on the bottom rope to break up the three count. This brought over Ricardo, who Colter kicked. Colter then grabbed one of Ricardo's crutches and Del Rio grabbed the other. This allowed Swagger to sneak-attack Del Rio before blasting him into the guardrail.

Swagger took his time rolling Del Rio back into the ring, then Swagger took his time re-entering the ring. This allowed Del Rio to pounce on Swagger with the cross arm-breaker. Swagger tried to fight it, but eventually tapped. They cut to former N.Y. Giants player Michael Strahan celebrating the victory, then cut to Colter freaking out with a great facial expression ringside. Back to Strahan, along with Michelle Beadle, for a celebration before Del Rio was shown celebrating in the ring.

WINNER: Del Rio via submission at 10:29. Perfectly fine singles match, but never really reached the next level. Another two-star match on a two-star undercard. (**1/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 06:04 am
6 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. C.M. PUNK (w/Paul Heyman) -- Taker's Undefeated Streak On The Line

Punk entered the ring, the bell sounded, and Taker went after Punk as if they were in an MMA fight. Punk then ducked a right and slapped Taker, who chased Punk out of the ring. Punk re-entered and slapped Taker, then walked into a big-boot from Taker. Big buzz in the stadium for this match. Taker had enough of this and chucked Punk to the outside, where he ran Punk into the ringpost. Taker measured Punk for strikes as a dueling chant picked up of "Under-taker / C.M. Punk." Taker then did his old-school leg drop across Punk's throat on the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Taker went to work on Punk's shoulder as Cole said Taker is not only fighting for Paul Bearer's honor, but the memory a lot of the WWE Family has of Bearer. Taker then went for an Old-School walk-the-ropes, but Punk countered with an armdrag across the ring. Punk smirked, then hopped to his feet and punched and kicked Taker on the mat. Punk then went Old-School by walking the ropes before dropping a fist to Taker's arm. Punk smirked to himself as the crowd cheered, then covered Taker for a nearfall.

Punk went to work on Taker as Heyman held out the urn a la Paul Bearer. Taker had an opening, but then missed a corner attack and ate the turnbuckle knee-first. The match then moved to the floor, where Punk landed a double-axehandle smash to Taker. Back in the ring, Punk went to work on Taker, but Taker dumped Punk to the floor. Taker then wanted to fly over the top rope, but Heyman hopped on the ring apron to block. Taker teased chokeslamming Heyman, but Punk came flying off the ropes to splash Taker for a nearfall.

They reset, then Punk dropped Taker to the mat and climbed to the top rope. Punk wanted a Macho Man elbow drop, and he connected. Punk covered, but Taker kicked out. Heyman sold exasperation with Punk being very close. Punk felt it, calmed himself down, and then called for the GTS. Punk got Taker in the air, but Taker slipped out and delivered a super-chokeslam. Taker covered, but Punk kicked out.

At 12:00, Taker slowly recovered, then the two men came to their feet and traded bombs. Taker then delivered a big corner splash before snake-eying Punk, but Punk intercepted the big boot with a flying kick for a two count. The dueling chant picked up, then Taker took Punk to the outside. Taker cleared the Spanish announce table, then wanted a Last Ride Powerbomb, but Punk escaped and kicked Taker in the head. Taker rested on the announce table, then Punk climbed to the top rope. "This is about history," JBL whispered. Punk wanted a flying elbow drop onto the table, but he came up just a bit short, landing with a thud. Actually, on another replay, Punk landed the move, but the table didn't break and he only grazed Taker. After the replay, Punk re-entered the ring and Taker made it back in at nine.

They reset and Heyman told Punk to do whatever he has to do to win. Punk sold a knee injury, then slowly crawled toward Taker, who sprung on him with the Hell's Gate submission. But, Punk countered into a jackknife pin for a nearfall. Punk then flowed into the Vice. He tried to pin Taker out of the Vice, but Taker sat up and flashed The Eyes to Taker. Punk tried to ignore it and nailed GTS, but Taker bounced off the ropes into a Tombstone on Punk. Big reaction as Taker hit the Tombstone, then the crowd exploded when Punk kicked out just before three.

The crowd buzzed as the two men reset before trading bombs from their knees. Punk headbutted Taker, but Taker absorbed a kick to the chest, no-sold, and the ref was bumped. Heyman distracted Taker, then Punk kicked Taker into the corner. Punk nailed the running knee, but Taker positioned him for the Last Ride. In the background, Heyman handed Punk the urn, which Punk blasted Taker with before he could hit the Tombstone. Punk then did the Taker pin, the ref slowly counted, but Taker kicked out. Heyman just fell down to the ground on his knees. "Why?!" Heyman said with hands on head.

At 21:25, the match reset, then Punk did the Taker throat-slash. Punk wanted the GTS, but Taker elbowed out. Punk again teased the GTS, but Taker blocked. Taker took a deep breath, flipped Punk onto his shoulders, steadied themselves, and delivered another Tombstone. Taker covered and this time it was good for the three count. You just can't kill the dead at WrestleMania.

After the match, Taker rolled out of the ring, grabbed the urn, and brought it into the ring. After a replay of the great sequences during the match, they cut back to Taker with tears in his eyes standing in the ring. Taker then knelt down as 21-0 flashed on the video screen. Taker then knelt down and posed before the urn as fireworks shot off in the stadium. "One of the greatest things I've ever seen, guys," JBL said. The camera pulled back from the top of the stadium as 21-0 lingered on the scoreboard, then WWE cut back to Taker leaving the ring with the urn in-hand. Smoke then filled the rampway as Taker slowly made his way to the stage, where he did his customary one-arm pose before lightning flashed. Taker then disappeared to the back.

WINNER: Taker at 22:07 to retain The Streak. They were so good at making people believe The Streak was in jeopardy. Even if people were 100 percent sure Taker was winning, they told such a good story that the journey to see how Taker would continue The Streak was worth a full investment. (****1/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 06:43 am
8 -- TRIPLE H (w/Shawn Michaels) vs. BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) -- No Holds Barred, Anything Goes -- Triple H's career on the line

Lesnar attacked Hunter, who then took the match to the floor. On the floor, Lesnar picked up a chair, but Hunter clotheslined Lesnar off the guardrail to the floor, with the back of Lesnar's head bouncing off the floor. That didn't look good. Back in the ring, Hunter tried to use the chair, but Heyman yanked it away from the outside. The match then moved back to the floor, where Hunter ran Lesnar into the ring steps, opening up a slight cut. Not much heat on this through the first four minutes. Then, Lesnar measured Hunter and suplexed him through the previously-indestructible Spanish Announce table, which was obviously rigged in-between matches so that it would break.

After the table spot, Lesnar tossed HUnter into the table scraps, bouncing the back of Hunter's head off the floor. The announcers stressed the match story to this point of Lesnar enjoying destroying Hunter. Lesnar then chased off Michaels when he got a little too close. Back in the ring, Lesnar held up his arms for a reaction, which drew a mix of cheers and boos. The audience just doesn't seem to know how to react to Lesnar. Lesnar then continued the assault as Heyman shouted from ringside that it's only a matter of time.

At 8:20, Lesnar grappled Hunter and delivered a release German Suplex. Heyman shouted at Hunter to put an end to the beating, but Hunter fought back. Lesnar then dumped Hunter clear over the top rope to the floor as the crowd remained quiet. On the outside, Lesnar stalked Michaels, who stood his ground before Hunter waited for Lesnar to turn around so that he could clothesline him. Hunter then clotheslined Lesnar over the guardrail into the front row.

Back in the ring at 11:00, Lesnar came back with a German Suplex for a two count. Heyman got on the ring apron, then Michaels got on the ring apron from the other side, so Lesnar smashed Michaels in the mouth. Lesnar smirked, then walked back to Hunter, who delivered a spinebuster. Hunter tried to re-gather himself, then wanted the Pedigree, but Lesnar countered. Suddenly, Michaels entered the ring, Lesnar blocked Sweet Chin Music, and Lesnar gave him the F5. Lesnar then turned around and took a Pedigree to little heat, but Lesnar kicked out before three.

After they replayed the nearfall, Hunter was shown returning to the ring with Sledgehammer in-hand. But, Lesnar blocked a sledgehammer shot and hit the F5. Lesnar covered, but Hunter kicked out just before three. Tit-for-tat kicking out of finishers. The match returned to the floor, where Lesnar popped Hunter with a chair shot before throwing him into the ring steps. As Lesnar paced the ringside area, one fan's audio was picked up: "C'mon, Brock, just end his career," almost pleading for the match to end. Lesnar then bashed Hunter with the ring steps before chucking the ring steps into the ring.

Lesnar rolled Hunter back into the ring, then throat-slashed the hard-camera. Lesnar grabbed the ring steps, then popped Hunter in the shoulder before covering for a nearfall. "Torture him all night long!" Heyman shouted audibly from ringside. Lesnar was slow to follow up, which gave Hunter an opening. But, Lesnar slapped on the kimura lock. Hunter fought the hold, then Lesnar sat on the second rope to apply more pressure to the arm. But, Hunter lifted Lesnar into the air and slowly transitioned to a spinebuster to break the hold.

Hunter and Lesnar reset, then Hunter crotch-chopped Lesnar, who ate the ringpost going for a corner charge. Hunter followd with a low-blow, then he wrapped Lesnar's arm around the ringpost. Hunter grabbed a chair as Michaels was spotted passed out/reclining/taking a nap leaning against the guardrail in the background.

Back in the ring, Hunter slapped on the kimura lock. Heyman, desperate, decided to enter the ring and grab a chair, but Michaels entered the ring and superkicked Heyman. They re-focused on the kimura lock, which Lesnar teased tapping out to. But, he refused to tap as the crowd came to life, then lifted Hunter into the air to slam him onto the ring steps. But, Lesnar couldn't follow up, so Hunter re-applied the submission, only to have Lesnar slam him onto the steps again. After a pause, Hunter re-applied and this time Lesnar twisted the arm back a la how Lesnar "broke" Hunter's arm in 2012. Lesnar waved his hand up and down teasing tapping, but Lesnar summoned power to slam Hunter onto the ring steps again. Or, did Hunter DDT Lesnar on the way down? Apparently he did.

At 23:00, they reset away from the ring steps. Hunter then grabbed the sledgehammer and measured Lesnar to pop him in the head. Hunter wobbled around the ring, then forced the energy to do his Triple H Pose. Hunter grabbed Lesnar and dragged him onto the ring steps for the Pedigree onto the steps. Lesnar bounced down to the mat, Hunter recovered, and pinned Lesnar for the pin and the win.

Post-match, Shawn Michaels entered the ring and the camera focused on Michaels having a bloody lip/nose. Michaels and Hunter embraced, then Hunter cleared the ring before WWE replayed high-points from the match.

WINNER: Hunter at 23:58. This one of those matches where the audience knew the result of the journey and didn't feel like taking the ride, unlike Taker-Punk. And, similar to Summerslam when the first match occurred. They had a great final two minutes with Lesnar teasing tapping out for a long time, but it wasn't enough to save it. (**3/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania 29 PPV Results: 4-7-13
Post by: Arcademan on April 08 2013, 07:31 am
8 -- WWE champion THE ROCK vs. JOHN CENA -- WWE Title match

Rock and Cena went through an early feeling-out process as the announcers talked about what would happen if each man won and lost. JBL said for Cena, he would carry the label of "Can't Win The Big One," and be the Jim Kelly of WWE - four-time Super Bowl-playing QB Hall of Famer, but never won the Super Bowl.

At 7:00, Rock slapped on a sleeperhold to take control of the match. A light "boring" chant started, then faded out. Cena escaped, then dropped Rock and smirked toward the crowd. Lawler claimed, "This crowd is split 50/50," trying to play up the narrative even though it was 90/10 for Rock. Or, 70 Rock/10 Cena/20 disinterested. Cena then delivered a shoulder tackle, audibly shouted, "Drop down," to Rock, then Rock dropped down, and Cena airballed Rock. After a weak mid-ring exchange, Rock applied the Sharpshooter, but Cena escaped and hit a sit-out slam.

Cena stood up and smirked, then very slowly leaned down over Rock and hand-waved him. Cena slowly bounced the ropes, but missed the fist drop. Rock then DDT'ed Cena and cussed out Cena, who very slowly reached his feet. Rock wanted Rock Bottom, but Cena countered with the STF. Cena visibly whispered in Rock's ears some instructions for the next spot, which Lawler claimed was Cena "talking smack." Cena then slingshot Rock into the corner, then delivered the Five-Knuckle Shuffle.

Cena wanted an Attitude Adjustment, but Rock countered with a spinebuster. Rock wanted the People's Elbow, but Rock grabbed Rock's leg and flowed into the STF. The crowd didn't buy it as a potential finish, then Rock broke free. Rock then hit Rock Bottom center-ring. Rock covered, but Cena kicked out. Rock then casually walked around the ring before walking into the Attitude Adjustment. It was only good for a two count, though.

Cena then took his time climbing to the top rope, where he missed with a guillotine leg drop. Rock followed with the People's Elbow, then covered for a two count. Cena rolled to the ring apron, then rolled clear down to the floor. Rock then slowly scooped up Cena on the floor and rolled him back into the ring. In the ring, they traded bombs before Cena went for a flying cross-body splash, but Cena intercepted, then powerlifted into the AA, but Rock countered with Rock Bottom. Again, though, Cena kicked out. (It's worth noting Cena's kick-outs have been a beat too early, killing the drama of the nearfall.)

Rock and Cena reset at 18:30 with Rock stalking Cena, then wanting the People's Elbow again, only turning it into You Can't See Me. Rock then wanted the Shuffle, but Cena popped to his feet and hit the AA, reversing roles from the finish of Cena-Rock last year, but Rock kicked out of this pin attempt. Cole noted the role-reversal, but it didn't cost Rock the match, unlike Cena last year.

At 20:00, they slowly reached their feet. Cena jabbed Rock, then again. Rock responded and they traded bombs. Teased finishers, then Cena hit Rock Bottom for a close nearfall. Cena entered Actor Mode reacting with his face to the nearfall. Cena then slowly unfolded two fingers to the ref, asking, "Only two?" Next, Cena stood up, checked his hand, looked down at Rock, then decided to tease the People's Elbow, just like last year. Cena mockingly did Rock's pose, then Rock stood up. Only, this time, Cena held the ropes when Rock popped up. Cena, thinking he suckered in Rock, then wanted AA, but got too cocky posing for the hard camera, and Rock countered with Rock Bottom. But, Cena kicked out. Great sequence.

They reset at 23:00 with another AA tease from Cena. But, Rock intercepted. Another tease. Another one. More blocks. Rock then hit a DDT center-ring. Rock then stood up and waited for Cena to get up, which took a while. Rock wanted another Rock Bottom, but Cena ducked and hit the Attitude Adjustment. Cena immediately covered and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Cena at 23:58 to capture the WWE Title.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 02:01 pm
1 -- TRIPLE H (w/Stephanie McMahon) vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- winner advances to the WWE World Title main event

Hunter continued to sneer at Bryan, then smirk toward the crowd as the two wrestlers felt out the crowd. Hunter then walked toward Bryan and extended his hand, but Bryan responded with a kick to the hand. A roll-up produced a two count, freaking out Hunter. Bryan followed with rapid-fire kicks in the corner, sending Hunter scampering to the floor for a breather. As Steph tried to help Hunter calm down, Bryan extended his hand in the ring. Nice opening.

Back in the ring, Hunter tried to work on Bryan's shoulder, but Bryan responded with a take-down into a side headlock. Hunter responded with a take down, but Bryan responded with uppercuts. Meanwhile, Lawler said he thinks Hunter put this match on first so that if he wins, he could rest up for the main event. Bryan went for kick strikes, but Hunter grabbed Bryan's foot and leg-wrenched him. Hunter thought he was in control again, but Bryan knocked him to the floor. Steph checked on Hunter, then Bryan came off the top turnbuckle with a flip dive aimed for Hunter, but Bryan seemed to take the worst of it.

Back in the ring, Bryan covered Hunter for a two count. "You're never going to win!" Steph shrieked from ringside. On the floor, Hunter took Bryan to the announce table and yanked Bryan shoulder-first down onto the announce table. "Yes!" Steph mockingly shouted. Back in the ring, Hunter went to work on Bryan's shoulder as the announcers said this looks like all of Bryan's hard work coming to an end. But, Bryan responded with a strike that sent Hunter to the floor. Bryan prepared for a suicide dive, but Hunter responded with a strike to the face. Hunter then smashed Bryan across the ring apron.

Bryan made it back into the ring just before ten, then Hunter applied a cross-face chicken wing. "Daniel Bryan" chant as Bryan tried to fight off the hold. Hunter then flowed into a cross-face submission, looking to avenge WM20. Bryan made it to the bottom rope, though, to get a rope break. Hunter then yanked down on Bryan's shoulder to keep working on the injury. Suddenly, Bryan fought back with strikes. Hunter responded, then Bryan knocked down Hunter with a flying attack.

Reset at 13:30. Bryan followed with a German Suplex for a nearfall. Then a second with a bridge for another two count. Bryan tried a third German, but Hunter blocked and nailed a German of his own. Both men sold the effects of the sequence, then Hunter covered for a two count. The match then moved to the top turnbuckle, where Bryan fed off "Yes!" chants to block Hunter and deliver a big sunset flip powerbomb. Both men sold on the mat.

At 16:30, Bryan got up and delivered two running knee strikes in the corner, but Hunter responded to the third attempt with a big lariat. Both men sold on the mat as Steph exclaimed, "Yeaaaah!" Hunter was slow to his feet and approached Bryan for the Pedigree, but Bryan blocked and jack-knifed Hunter for a two count. Kick strike to the head and the crowd rallied hard behind Bryan. Bryan climbed to the top for a diving headbutt, but Hunter got his leg up to block. Hunter immediately went to the cross-face submission, Bryan crawled across the ring, but Hunter rolled them over to the center of the ring. Bryan managed to escape and also reverse into a cross-face of his own, popping the crowd. Hunter flailed his arm, but Bryan locked it on tighter as Steph sold concern ringside. Hunter teased tapping, but finally reached the bottom rope for a break.

Hunter rolled to the floor for a breather, then Bryan got up and delivered a suicide dive. Then, a second suicide dive to the outside. Bryan took Hunter back into the ring and followed with a top-rope missile dropkick. Bryan kipped up like Shawn Michaels, then delivered one Yes! Kick. A second. A third. A fourth. Big wind-up for a fifth to the head. But, Hunter kicked out just before three as Steph seemed to be out of energy ringside.

Bryan wanted to end it with the big running knee, but Hunter responded with a spinebuster. Hunter flowed right into a Pedigree, but Bryan kicked out at two. The crowd popped, then erupted into "Yes!" chants as Steph sold concern that maybe she underestimated Bryan. Steph tried to give Hunter a pep talk, but Bryan caught Hunter with a roll-up for a close two count. Hunter responded by unloading on Bryan with right hand strikes. He then went for a second Pedigree, but Bryan countered with a bridge pin for a close two count. Hunter maintained the Pedigree grip, though, and Bryan blocked a second Pedigree attempt. So, Hunter drove knees to Bryan's head.

Hunter again gripped Bryan for a Pedigree, but Bryan reversed into a wind-up kick to the face. Bryan tried a big kick, but Hunter blocked. Bryan blocked a follow-up from Hunter, created separation, and smashed Hunter with a big running knee. Cover and a three count. Clean win for Bryan.

Post-match: The crowd erupted in "Yes!" chants as Bryan and Hunter recovered on the mat. Bryan stood up and celebrated by holding up one finger that he's got one more to go. Suddenly, Steph entered the ring and slapped Bryan. Bryan smiled, so Steph kept slapping him. Hunter then attacked Bryan from behind and posted him. Hunter grabbed a chair and smashed it across Bryan's shoulder, creating questions over whether Bryan can make the main event. Hunter and Steph then left the ring as Bryan was tended to by the ringside doctor.

WINNER: Bryan at 25:58. Very good WrestleMania match. The post-match attack now sets up the show-long question of whether Bryan will make the main event. Well done all-around. (****)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 02:22 pm
2 -- THE SHIELD (U.S. champion DEAN AMBROSE & ROMAN REIGNS & SETH ROLLINS) vs. NEW AGE OUTLAWS (ROAD DOGG & BILLY GUNN) & KANE -- six-man tag match

 Hot start to the match with the match time likely cut down due to the length of the first hour. Reigns stood out early delivering double spears to the Outlaws, then Shield nailed a triple powerbomb to both Outlaws at the same time. Shield covered the Outlaws for the win.

 WINNERS: Shield at 2:56. That was quick and decisive.

 3 -- ANDRE THE GIANT BATTLE ROYAL

 Big Show's music played and WWE revealed a host of individuals were already in the ring. Sheamus got a ring entrance, then the bell sounded. Yoshi Tatsu, who was not part of the original list, was the first elimination. Raw GM Brad Maddox was out next. Brodus Clay was eliminated by Khali and Khali was eliminated next. Zack Ryder was cut next as bodies started flying.

 Darren Young was eliminated, then Mark Henry eliminated all of 3MB. Big Show then eliminated Henry. Chaos everywhere, then Titus was eliminated. Santino pulled out his Cobra and took out the cameraman instead of Miz. He adjusted and took out Miz anyways. Del Rio then eliminated Santino to re-create the Royal Rumble 2011 ending.

 Cody Rhodes eliminated his former partner, Damien Sandow, then Big E. pressed Justin Gabriel clear over the top rope to the floor. Big E. eliminated David Otunga next and Cole said he can go sue somebody now. Lawler commented that this is like fireworks going all different directions. Fandango suddenly eliminated Big E., setting off "Fandango'ing" in the crowd. Fandango danced on the ring apron, which drew over Sheamus to deliver about 25 clubbing forearms to the chest. He then playfully shoved Fandango off the apron to the floor.

 Big Show scooped up R-Truth and tossed him over the top rope to the floor. Cesaro, who was pulled from the battle royal in favor of the pre-show Tag Title match, emerged as a candidate to win as the sea of bodies cleared out. "I didn't even know Cesaro was in this thing," JBL observed. Del Rio then eliminated Goldust. He followed by eliminating Cody Rhodes.

 Rey Mysterio got a brief spotlight, then Cesaro suddenly eliminated him with a big European Uppercut. Ziggler tried to go after Cesaro, but he took a big pop-up uppercut. Suddenly, Kofi was dumped out of the ring, but his feet landed on the ring steps, avoiding elimination in a unique manner. Kofi hit the ring and springboard off the top with a cross-body to Ziggler. Trouble in Paradise to Big Show, but Cesaro grabbed Kofi and put him in the Big Swing. JBL asked if he could Big Swing Kofi over the top rope, but Cesaro just kept going on the Big Swing.

 Reset at 11:00 with Big Show grabbing Cesaro to deliver a big chokeslam, drawing boos from the crowd. Sheamus then Brogue Kicked Kofi off the ring apron to eliminate him. Ziggler followed with a snap DDT to Sheamus, then Del Rio whiffed on a superkick that eliminated Ziggler. Boos from the crowd.

 The Final Four was Sheamus, Del Rio, Big Show, and Cesaro. Sheamus and Del Rio then eliminated each other battling against the ropes. It was down to Cesaro and Show, who went for a chokeslam, but Cesaro blocked. Cesaro then tried big clotheslines to eliminate Show, but Show chucked Cesaro over the top rope. Cesaro held on, then climbed to the top rope, but Show nailed him with a KO Punch to boos. Show tried to eliminate Cesaro, but Cesaro slipped out, then nailed uppercuts after uppercuts. Suddenly, Cesaro had his Hogan bodyslamming Andre moment by lifting Show into the air and bodyslamming Show over the top rope to the floor to win, popping the crowd.

 Post-match: Cesaro collected himself as Show stood stunned ringside. Show then reached through the ropes with a hand and Cesaro accepted it for a handshake. Cesaro took his spotlight in the ring, then five referees brought the Andre trophy into the ring. Cesaro lifted the entire trophy into the ring, standing tall victorious.

 WINNER: Cesaro at 13:25. And Cesaro's star has been made. Rough battle royal early on, but huge ending for Cesaro's career.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 02:58 pm
4 -- JOHN CENA vs. BRAY WYATT (w/Luke Harper and Erick Rowan)

 The bell sounded and Bray knelt down before Cena to give Cena a chance to finish him right now. "Get up!" Cena said instead. Bray got tired of waiting, so he charged Cena, but Cena ran him into the ringpost. Bray then took control and taunted Cena while being on the offensive for a sustained period.

 Suddenly, Cena got a look in his eyes and charged out of the corner with a big clothesline to Bray. Cena held himself on the top turnbuckle and got a monster look in his eyes. He jumped Bray with an attack, prompting Bray to laugh at this playful aggression from Cena. Cena almost got himself DQ'ed, then Harper and Rowan hit the ring apron. Bray told them to back down as Bray smiled in the corner and the crowd chanted, "Cena Sucks."

 Cena delivered a running boot to Bray's face, then continued to hold his angry facial expression and body language. Cena pounded on Bray as ref John Cone asked Cena what's wrong with him. Suddenly, Cena knelt down and tried to collect himself, processing what he was turning into. Bray smiled and lifted up Cena, who responded with a dropkick. Cena then audibly called for a sleeper spot, shot Bray off to the ropes, and Bray responded with a sleeper.

 Cena broke free at 9:00 and dropped Bray with shoulder tackles, then he stood up and smiled, turning back into regular John Cena. Cena smiled at the boos that followed and went for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but Bray responded with his crab pose that freaked out Cena. Great "counter" from Bray. Bray then suplexed Cena after Rowan provided a distraction. Suddenly, the floor section broke into choreographed swaying to the Wyatts's theme music.

 At 10:45, Cena sprung on Bray with a swinging DDT for a two count. Cena then climbed to the top rope and went for a guillotine leg drop, but Bray stood up and caught Cena for a sit-down powerbomb resulting in a two count. Bray went back to taunting Cena, who suddenly responded with a sit-out slam into the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena wanted the AA, but Bray slipped out and nailed an odd-looking gutbuster across his knee for a two count. "Ugly, but effective," JBL said.

 At 13:00, Cena and Bray moved to the ring apron, where Bray delivered half of a DDT onto the edge of the ring. Suddenly, the crowd broke into singing, "He's got the whole world in his hands," because it was written on the back of Bray's jacket, which he discarded on the way back into the ring. In the ring, Cena blocked a top-rope move, then he twisted his body to splash the henchmen on the floor. But, that move allowed Bray to attack from behind as Cena recovered from the attack.

 On the outside, Bray placed Cena on the ring steps and tried to smash him with the other half of the ring steps, but Cena popped up and blocked. Cena went back to being the monster and lifted
 the ring steps in the air. He wanted to end Bray with the steps, but couldn't do it, so he tossed the steps aside. Back in the ring, Bray ran over Cena with a big body smash, then he held Cena in his hands and sang, "He's got the whole world in his hands." Bray then got up and tried a running senton, but Cena moved. Cena then dropped Bray with an AA, but Bray kicked out just before three.

 Reset at 18:00. Bray threw Cena down on the floor in front of Arnold Skaaland's widow on the front row. Suddenly, Cena sprung onto Harper with a big spear through the gimmicked guardrail in front of the timekeeper's area. Bray freaked out in the ring, then beat up Cena ringside before checking on Harper. Back in the ring, Harper hung upside down in the corner to pop the crowd, then he stalked Cena for Sister Abigail, but Cena countered into the STF. Bray reached the bottom rope for a break, though.

 At 20:00, Bray caught Cena out of nowhere with Sister Abigail, but Cena kicked out just in time. The match then moved to the floor, where Bray started re-arranging the ringside area. Bray brought a chair into the ring, then he tossed the chair to Cena and challenged him to use it. Bray told Cena to be the monster and finish him. Cena pulled himself up, got a crazy look in his eyes, and smashed Rowan off the ring apron with the chair. Bray tried to catch Cena with Sister Abigail, but Cena flipped into an AA. Cena pinned Bray for the pin and the win.

 Post-match: Cole said Cena stayed true to himself and the Cenation tonight. Cena then left the ring to hug a boy on the second row sporting Cena gear. As the Wyatts helped Bray away from the ringside area, Cena posed in the ring as Cole continued to hype Cena staying true to himself.

 WINNER: Cena at 22:25. That epitomized a roller-coaster match. Good at times, not so good at other times, mainly when Cena was asked to act and step out of his comfort zone. But, Bray had a big-match performance in defeat and it sets up for the next chapter with the Wyatts becoming more ruthless and angry after Cena beat Bray. (**3/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 04:01 pm
5 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) -- Undertaker's Undefeated Streak at WrestleMania on the line

 Taker and Lesnar felt each other out early on. A big early spot was Lesnar clotheslining Taker over the top rope and Taker landing on his feet, stunning Lesnar. Taker and Lesnar went to early chokeslam and F5 teases, but easily avoided the finishers. Meanwhile, the crowd was a bit subdued, a combination of patiently watching the match play out and worn out from a roller-coaster WrestleMania thus far.

 Lesnar built sustained offense targeting the knee, then they moved to the floor, where Lesnar sent Taker into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Lesnar put the knees to Taker, putting him on the mat. Heyman cackled to himself as Cole dejectedly said Taker looks almost mortal here. He said it's almost a mis-match thus far. Lesnar lit up Taker with rights and lefts to the mid-section, then to the face. Suddenly, Taker responded with a DDT off the ropes to buy some time.

 Reset at 12:00. Taker with Snake Eyes into a big boot, then he dropped a leg for a two count. Taker followed with a big chokeslam, then he covered Lesnar for another nearfall. Taker tried to follow with a Tombstone, but Lesnar countered into an F5. Taker kicked out and the crowd didn't buy the nearfall this early in the sequence. The crowd then came to life with an "Undertaker" chant as Heyman told Lesnar to finish Taker.

 At 15:00, Taker suddenly reached up and put Lesnar in the Hell's Gate submission. Lesnar fought, then offered a feat of strength suddenly lifting Taker into the air for a powerbomb to break free. Lesnar was again slow to follow up, allowing Taker to apply his submission again. Lesnar teased tapping, but again powered to his feet for a powerbomb to break the hold.

 At 18:00, the two men were slow to reach other, then Lesnar sprung on Taker with the kimura lock. Lesnar held onto the hold, but didn't wrench it like he did to Triple H to "break his arm." Taker then reversed into a kimura lock of his own. Lesnar cried out in pain, then reached the ropes for a break. Lesnar was the aggressor coming out of the ropes, delivering punishment to Taker's mid-section.

 Taker came back with an Old-School walk-the-ropes teaser, but Lesnar pulled Taker off the rope into an F5. Lesnar covered Taker, but Taker kicked out again. Heyman freaked out ringside, then told Lesnar that this is his legacy. "He's taking this away from you!" he shouted to Lesnar. Lesnar followed up on Taker with right hands, but suddenly found himself in Last Ride position. Taker couldn't get Lesnar all the way up in the air, so he simply dropped him to the mat to complete the powerbomb.

 Taker followed up with the Tombstone Piledriver. Taker folded Lesnar's arms, but Lesnar kicked out at two. Taker sat up, stared down at Heyman, and pulled himself to his feet for a throat-slash. Taker wanted a second Tombstone, but Lesnar reversed into a Tombstone of his own. Lesnar then transitioned into a third F5. Lesnar covered and, yes, a three count was rendered as Taker kicked out.

 The crowd sat stunned and shocked as the unthinkable 21-1 record flashed on the screen. Lesnar sat stunned, too, and Heyman freaked out as it sunk in, too. WWE showed people with their mouths wide open in disbelief since no one thought Taker's Streak would ever end, especially not after the weak build-up of Lesnar for this match. No music played as WWE let the sound of a stunned crowd be the soundtrack.

 Lesnar gathered himself in the corner, smiled, then left the ring to his music playing. Lesnar and Heyman hit the stage to heel boos, then left to the back. Back in the ring, Taker gathered himself and sold gathering his thoughts. "21-1" remained on the videoboard over Taker's shoulder as JBL said he thought he would never see this happen. Taker tried to collect himself one more time as the announcers were shown standing up and applauding from ringside. Lawler said it's like the wind has been taken out of his sails. Taker seemed to tear up as he finally reached his feet. Taker stood in the ring and looked down at the ground, then looked around the Superdome. Taker then left the ring to the ring steps as Lawler said he's about to take a walk that he never thought he would have to talk.

 WWE cut to a wide shot of Taker walking up the entrance ramp. Cole said it's a sad day in WWE, but they will celebrate what Taker has done at WrestleMania. Taker's music played and Cole gave a big speech about Taker's contributions to WWE and going down swinging at WrestleMania. "Congratulations to Brock Lesnar, but ultimate respect to The Undertaker," Cole said. Lawler said he thinks it was the end of an era. Taker stopped on the entrance stage, kept walking, and disappeared into the fog.

 WINNER: Lesnar at 25:12 to end The Streak. The story of this match was Taker looked old and worn down, which seemed to set up for Taker to make the annual comeback to prove he's still immortal, but Lesnar suddenly won. Not what I expected to analyze tonight. I suppose it sets up Lesnar back on-track to get in the WWE Title picture (sticking around with a feud vs. Daniel Bryan after this?), but how does it affect a possible Taker vs. Cena WM match? Or, was this it for Taker? Lots to process here. (**1/2)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 04:09 pm
6 -- VICKIE GUERRERO INVITATIONAL -- 14-Divas match for the Divas Title

 All of the challengers were in the ring after the announcers reset following The Undertaker's Streak ending. A.J. Lee then got a ring entrance to defend the Divas Title. The announcers tried to engage in the match, but sold as if they couldn't concentrate because their thoughts were on Taker's Streak ending. The crowd had a similar response. There were a handful of multiple-Divas spots during the match, which worked to take out competitors and allow A.J. to put Naomi in a submission for the victory to retain her title.

 WINNER: A.J. via submission at 6:48 to retain the Divas Title.

The Championship Match between Orton, Batista and Bryan is the last match of the night.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXX PPV Results: 4-6-14
Post by: Arcademan on April 05 2014, 04:47 pm
7 -- WWE World Hvt. champion RANDY ORTON vs. 2014 Royal Rumble winner BATISTA vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- three-way WWE World Hvt. Title match

 Once the bell sounded, Bryan ran across the ring to dropkick Orton. Batista watched, then tried a powerbomb, but Bryan countered with a huracanrana that sent Batista stumbling across the ring and through the ropes to the floor. But, the heels went after Bryan's injured shoulder moments later to momentarily neutralize him. Jerry Lawler went for the early dejection that he has the same feeling about Bryan's chances as Undertaker earlier tonight.

 Orton and Batista battled ringside without a count applied, reminding everyone that there's no count-out or DQ in a WWE three-way match. The match moved into the ring for Bryan and Batista to battle while Orton hung out ringside. Orton then re-entered the ring and Bryan ran across the ring with flying dropkicks to both Orton and Batista back and forth. Bryan caught Orton in the Yes! Lock moments later when Stephanie McMahon and Triple H suddenly showed up ringside. Hunter, appearing to be sporting a neckbrace, yanked the ref out of the ring to prevent a decision from being rendered. Check that, it was a towel wrapped around Hunter's neck like a neckbrace.

 After the distraction, Batista dropped Bryan, then gave him a Batistabomb. Crooked ref Scott Armstrong then showed up and counted one, two, kick-out. This woke up the crowd, which had to be taken way down to get back up. Bryan then side-stepped a charging Batista and kicked ref Armstrong in the face. Cole said it's No DQ. Ringside, Hunter and Steph helped up Armstrong, then Bryan came flying through the ropes to take out Hunter, Steph, and Scott.

 Reset at 11:00. Hunter went under the ring and retrieved a sledgehammer. But, Bryan kicked it away from Hunter. Bryan then picked up the Sledgehammer and jabbed Hunter with it. Bryan then rolled up Batista, the original ref entered to count, but Orton broke up the pin.

 Ringside, Orton and Bryan battled as the crowd tried to rally behind Bryan. Batista then helped Orton take out Bryan. Meanwhile, refs helped Hunter and Steph away from ringside to boos. Back to ringside, Orton smashed Bryan with the ring steps. Batista and Orton shared a moment, then looked down at Bryan and decided to end him. Batista and Orton cleared the multiple announce tables ringside, then Batista smashed Bryan with a TV monitor.

 At 14:00, Batista put Bryan on a table as the crowd chanted for C.M. Punk. Batista then positioned Bryan for a Batistabomb and Orton readied for an RKO, which led to a combo RKOBomb through the Spanish announce table. That hurt Orton as much as it hurt Bryan, while Batista stood tall on the English table. The ringside medic came down to ringside to check on both Bryan and Orton, who had a gash on his lower back. Batista made no effort to make a pin here as more medics spilled out to check on Bryan. Batista then picked up Orton and clotheslined him as medics continued to check on Bryan.

 The crowd sat hushed, contemplating whether this was the end of Bryan's title shot. As Orton and Batista returned to the ring, the crowd picked up a "Daniel Bryan" chant. The crowd watched Bryan be wheeled away from ringside while Orton dropped Batista with a DDT off the ring apron to the floor. Suddenly, Bryan ripped off the neckbrace and fell off the stretcher. "Yes!" chants from the crowd. Bryan vowed to keep fighting, but Orton grabbed Bryan and sent him into the ring steps.

 Back in the ring, Orton thought things over as the crowd chanted for Bryan. Orton taunted the crowd, then called for the RKO. Cole dejectedly said this is it, but Bryan blocked the RKO and wrestled Orton to the ground for the Yes! Lock. Orton fought the hold, then Batista came out of nowhere to break up the submission. So, Bryan put Batista in the Yes! Lock. This time, Orton broke it up. Orton threw Bryan across the ring, then went after Batista. But, Batista blocked an RKO. Batista tried to spear Batista, but Orton moved and Bryan took the spear. Orton then snapped on Batista with an RKO, but Batista kicked out just before three.

 At 22:00, Orton stalked Batista for his next move. It was a Punt. Orton measured Batista, but Bryan came out of nowhere with a flying knee. Batista chucked Bryan out of the ring, then he covered Orton, but Orton kicked out just before three. Batista, frustrated, went for a Batistabomb, and he connected. But, Bryan came out of nowhere with a flying knee to Batista. He then put Batista in the Yes! Lock. Batista fought the hold, but had to tap out. Bryan is the new WWE World Hvt. champion and the crowd went nuts.

 Post-match: The crowd exploded in excitement as Bryan's win redeemed WrestleMania following The Streak ending. Bryan took both top title belts and celebrated on the announce table as Cole called this an incredible performance defeating Hunter, Batista, and Orton on the same night. Confetti fell and fireworks shot off, then family members joined Bryan in the ring. Make that a lot of confetti. Bryan soaked in the moment and stood tall in the corner with both title belts as the crowd continued to celebrate. Bryan eventually knelt down in the ring with both title belts laid out before him. "Only at WrestleMania," Lawler declared. Bryan then got up with possession of both title belts and continued the "Yes!" celebration as WM30 signed off at 9:56 p.m.

 WINNER: Bryan at 23:20 to capture the WWE World Hvt. Title. That was a very good WWE Main Event style main event with tons of ups and downs taking the crowd through the entire six-month journey in one match before paying off Bryan's journey with the ultimate victory. Bryan vs. Brock Lesnar as a potential feud coming out of this could be huge. Before that, though, Orton is in-line for a title shot since (a) he didn't lose the match and (b) he would have his title re-match clause. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on April 09 2014, 03:57 pm
Ultimate Warrior: One-Third Of WrestleMania VI Competitors Now Dead (http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/list/201404/ultimate-warrior-dead-wrestlers-wrestlemania-vi-andre-savage-rude-hennig#12)

The death of the Ultimate Warrior was just the latest grim reminder that professional wrestlers continue to drop dead from something other than old age at an alarming rate.

The pinnacle of the Warrior's career was WrestleMania VI on April 1, 1990, at SkyDome in Toronto. Warrior defeated Hulk Hogan in the main event to win the championship. Warrior is the 12th wrestler who competed at WrestleMania VI to have died -- one-third of the card's working roster. The oldest was just 63.

As a point of reference, of the 44 starting players from that year's Super Bowl between the 49ers and Broncos, only one has died: Denver defensive end Ron Holmes, who was 48 when he passed away in 2011 from diabetes and coronary issues.

Reasons for wrestlers' dying early -- grueling travel schedules, painkiller abuse, steroid use -- have been well-documented. The passing of the Warrior at age 54 from what is suspected to be a heart attack just days after his induction to WWE's Hall of Fame only underscores the issue.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 29 2015, 01:29 am
WrestleMania XXXI results will be posted Sunday starting at 7:30 pm EDT here. Thank you.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 09:22 am
Pre-show results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's report), (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_84174.shtml#.VRiGx_zF-E0)

A -- WWE tag champions OAKLAND RAIDERS (TYSON KIDD & CESARO w/Natalya) vs. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (THE USOS w/Naomi) vs. LOS MATADORES (DIEGO & FERNANDO w/El Torito) vs. NEW DAY (KOFI KINGSTON & BIG E. w/Xavier Woods) -- four-team match for the WWE Tag Titles

The Usos started things off and Jey Uso sold a shoulder injury. The trainer escorted Jey away from ringside, leaving Jimmy by himself. Kidd & Cesaro then combined for a Big Swing/dropkick on Kofi for a two count. Of note, interesting sightlines facing the hard camera. Instead of that long, panoramic stadium look, it was more like a rectangular box with "WRESTLEMANIA" text backdrop.

Jimmy Uso tagged in and cleaned house by himself. Uso set up four opponents in each corner. Butt splash Rikishi-style to one corner, then a second, a third, and all four corners. Chaos with all teams in the ring. Kingston scored a close nearfall on Cesaro, then they set up a Tower of Doom spot. Instead, Cesaro just suplexed Big E. clear over the top rope into the ring. The ref lost control of the match trying to figure out who was legal. Meanwhile, Kidd used Natalya to take out Los Matadores. Torito suddenly entered the ring and flew onto Xavier on the outside. Natalya then put Torito in the Sharpshooter, tapping out Torito on the floor. Suddenly, Naomi was in the ring and she flew over the top rope with Uso to splash people on the floor. It came down to Natalya and Naomi on the floor, leading to Natalya delivering Rear View to Natalya. Complete chaos.

Back in the ring, Big E. hit the Big Ending on un Matador, but other teams broke up the pin. The ref tried to figure out who was legal as Big E. and un Matador remained in the ring. Other teams re-entered the ring, then Cesaro delivered a big uppercut to un Matador. More chaos as the crowd sat quietly with too much happening. They set up another Tower of Doom spot, bringing fans to their feet as bodies crashed to the mat. Uso hit a top-rope splash on Big E., but Cesaro tagged in Usos's foot in mid-air. So, Cesaro discarded Uso and pinned Big E. for the win.

WINNERS: Cesaro & Kidd at 9:58 to retain the Tag Titles. Hard work aise, this was a giant clustermess. Goodness. WWE tried to get in the Natalya-Naomi feud, Natalya-Torito deal, Uso injury angle, and four teams battling for the Tag Titles with no sense of order in ten over-booked minutes. Just too much for a pre-show match. (**1/2)

B -- ANDRE THE GIANT MEMORIAL BATTLE ROYAL

Curtis Axel parted the Red Sea to get his moment ripping his shirt going wild with Axel-Mania. So, the entire roster dumped Axel over the top rope for the first elimination. NXT star Hideo Itami was in there battling Cesaro, who was not advertised after being in the Tag Title match, while Show worked on Titus O'Neil in the corner. Adam Rose and Fandango then spilled to the outside as JBL hyped Show never winning a battle royal. Show targeted Itami, then Miz and Damien Sandow teamed up to fight Alex Riley, who was also not advertised. They eliminated Riley, and Miz took the credit.

Zack Ryder was then eliminated by a returning Bo Dallas, now with a goatee. Bo was so excited that he ran out of the ring, then ran back in, and was eliminated by Itami. "Itami" chant from the crowd. Itami kicked Kidd around, then found himself face-to-nipple with Show. Itami went after Show with kicks, but Show punched Itami off the ring apron to the floor to boos from the crowd.

Los Matadores were eliminated, then Cesaro slammed Sin Cara onto Los Matadores. Henry then press-slammed Kidd over the top rope onto the eliminated trio. The Ascension then dumped Henry over the top rope, ending Lawler's pick. "Let's Go Mizdow" chants as the ring continued to clear out via Ryback eliminating The Ascension. Ryback then chucked Darren Young over the top rope. Heath Slater air-guitared in Ryback's face, so Ryback tossed him next. Ryback then tossed Titus O'Neil.

New Day ganged up on Big Show, but Show kind of skinned the cat going over the top rope. So, Kofi and Xavier double-dropkicked Show. No elimination with Show holding onto the top rope, then Show grabbed Big E. and eliminated him. He followed with eliminations on Xavier and Kofi Kingston. Quite the babyface move valiantly surviving three guys trying to eliminate him. Show then tossed Erick Rowan after catching his breath.

Ryback tossed Goldust as the match came down to seven or eight wrestlers. Ryback wanted to Shell-Shock Big Show, but Kane smashed him in the face before choke-slamming Miz and Sandow. Kane tried to eliminate 2014 winner Cesaro, but he hung on. And he eliminated Kane with power offense. Show then chucked Uso over the top rope.

The Final Five was Show, Cesaro, Miz, Sandow, and Ryback. Cesaro offered a big Feat of Strength on Show, but he couldn't hold him and Show tossed Cesaro over the top rope to the floor. So, it's Show, Ryback, Miz, and Sandow in the Final Four. Ryback wanted the Meathook Clothesline on show, but Show intercepted and chucked him over the top rope to the floor.

Show turned around to stand opposite Miz and Sandow as the crowd came to life cheering for Sandow. Miz pointed to himself, saying he's got this. Miz talked strategy, then walked toward Show, figured out it was Big Show, and stopped. Cole freaked out about something on commentary while all three guys stood in the ring setting up the finish. Miz talked strategy with Sandow again, but Sandow shook his head "no" on Miz's instructions. Miz berated Sandow, who remained standing still. Miz pushed Sandow one too many times, so Sandow grabbed Miz and chucked him over the top rope to a big pop.

Ringside, Miz freaked out while Sandow yelled that he's not taking this anymore. But, Sandow turned his back on Big Show. JBL predicted Big Show about to win, but Show did not take advantage of Sandow being distracted by eliminating Miz, just sitting in the corner. Show and Sandow eventually came face-to-face as the last two standing. Show tossed Sandow, but Sandow skinned the cat back into the ring. Sandow punched Show over and over, but could not get him over the top rope. Show then shoulder-blocked Sandow to the mat to boos.

Show smiled, stalked Sandow, and got low-bridged over the top rope. Show held on, though. Sandow tried to bite Show's fingers, but Show blocked and absorbed right hands from Sandow. Sandow ran at Show, but Show grabbed him by the throat. Sandow then found himself on the ring apron trying to drag Show over the top rope to the floor. But, Show lifted Sandow in the air and tossed him down to the mat, getting the win.

Post-match, Show left the ring to pick up the giant Andre the Giant trophy. Show then patted the Andre figurine on the head and posed like Andre.

WINNER: Show at 18:05. That was a good battle royal. They cleared people out early on, spotlighted key wrestlers, got in Sandow's big moment ending his alliance with Miz, and gave Show his gold watch winning the battle royal. The booking almost babyfaced Show (although the crowd sure did not want him to win) with Show trying to get his first battle royal win, overcoming stacked odds during the match, and showing endurance getting the win. (***1/2)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 09:33 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report) (http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_84175.shtml#.VRiIhPzF-E0)

1 -- IC champion BAD NEWS BARRETT vs. DANIEL BRYAN vs. LUKE HARPER vs. R-TRUTH vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. DEAN AMBROSE vs. STARDUST -- seven-man Intercontinental Title ladder match

Chaos early on with wrestlers flying out of the ring. Dean eventually climbed a ladder and splashed everyone except for R-Truth, who entered the ring and tried to conquer his fear of heights, but Barrett cut him off before he could climb. Bryan then entered the ring and landed corner dropkicks on Stardust and Barrett, but Harper smashed him with a ladder. Bryan shook it off moments later and smashed Harper as he hung upside down on a ladder. Stardust then took control, drawing "Cody" chants taunting him. Suddenly, Stardust left the ring and grabbed his own ladder, which was covered in glitter. Barrett proceeded to smash and break the ladder.

Back in the ring, Ambrose and Harper had a ladder war that turned into a fist fight. They were cleared from the ring, then Stardust tried to climb a giant ladder, but Barrett cut him and delivered a superplex from the top of the ladder. Barrett sold great tipping over onto his stomach after executing the move. Suddenly, Bryan, Ziggler, and Ambrose battled on top of the ladder. Ambrose tipped them over, then clotheslined Harper. But, Harper grabbed Ambrose and chucked him over the top rope with a powerbomb through a collapsable ladder down at ringside. The ringside doctor checked on Ambrose as Ziggler returned to the ring. Ziggler climbed on Harper's back as Harper climbed the ladder, then Harper bodyslammed both of them down to the mat below. Reset with bodies everywhere.

Ziggler was the first man up and got his hands on the IC Title belt, but Barrett cut him off. Bullhammers around the horn, but Bryan prevented Barrett from grabbing the ladder. Bryan got his hands on the belt, but Barrett and Ziggler desperately pulled him down. Barrett, frustrated, tossed the ladder out of the way, then turned around and took a running knee from Bryan.

Bryan reset the ladder and started climbing, but Ziggler ran back into the ring to battle Bryan. Big right hand strikes back and forth. Headbutt to Ziggler. Another one. Double headbutt battle, then Bryan got the final headbutt, knocking Ziggler down to the mat. Bryan was left alone on the ladder and he unhooked it for the win. Big crowd reaction and celebration. Cole said they begin Mania the way they ended last year.

WINNER: Bryan at 13:47 to become new IC champion. Good ladder match. WWE protected Bryan not involved in dangerous spots and they kept the focus on a few stories and feuds to build to the finish book-ending the last two WrestleManias. Simple, effective booking and relatively safe match that did not make viewers cringe throughout. Now perhaps WWE can re-focus on the Smackdown brand with Bryan and the IC Title as center of the show. (***1/2)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 09:56 am
2 -- RANDY ORTON vs. SETH ROLLINS (w/Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury)

 After a brief feeling-out process, Orton landed a dropkick, then teased the RKO, but Seth slid out of the ring to avoid. Back in the ring, Seth blocked corner punches and went for a Bucklebomb, but Orton rebounded off the turnbuckles and clotheslined Seth hard to the mat. J&J felt uncomfortable with how the match was going, so they got involved. Orton wasn't going to let them stay involved, though, so he delivered a trademark Double DDT from the ring apron ... onto the floor. "Those are human beings!" JBL shouted on commentary. Seth used the distraction to take control, though, back in the ring.

 Seth got cocky in control of the match, allowing Orton to come back with a corner clothesline into a trademark snap powerslam. Orton then lit up Seth with corner uppercuts, nearly getting himself DQ'ed by the referee. No matter, as Orton gripped Seth for a t-bone suplex, which sent Seth sliding to the ring apron. Orton wanted a second-rope DDT, but Seth blocked and kicked Orton in the head down to the floor where J&J were recovering. Seth measured Orton, then delivered an Asai Moonsault, rocking Orton.

 Back in the ring at 8:00, Seth wanted a top-rope move, but Orton crotched him just in time. Orton then wanted Papa Orton's superplex, but Seth blocked, only to take a back body drop. Orton followed with a cross-body splash from the top rope, bringing out something new from the toolbox. Orton covered for a two count, then wanted the RKO, firing up the crowd. Orton set up for the RKO in Seth's face, but Seth blocked with a roll-up for a two count into a kick to the face. Seth then flipped over Orton, but landed right in an RKO. Seth kicked out just before three, though, surprising the crowd.

 Orton set up for The Punt to try to finish Seth, but J&J hit the ring, took RKOs from Orton, and Seth surprised Orton with a Curb Stomp. But, Orton kicked out of the pin. Lawler said they're kicking out of finishers because it's WrestleMania. After a replay of the sequence, Seth approached Orton for his next move. Seth wanted a big corkscrew splash from the top rope, but Orton rolled out of the way and tried an RKO, but Seth blocked. Seth then ran toward Orton for a Curb Stomp, but he ended up running into the air, where Orton intercepted him with a mid-air RKO, popping and wowing the crowd. Orton emphatically covered Seth for the win. Amazing visual on a slow-motion replay.

 WINNER: Orton at 13:15. Very good singles match. The finish makes a lot of sense if Seth is cashing in MITB tonight or tomorrow on Raw. Hypothetically, Orton gets the win here, Seth gets the title, and Orton has a claim to a title shot, setting up the next stage of the feud post-Mania. (***1/2)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 10:30 am
3 -- STING vs. TRIPLE H -- The Monday Night War

 After all the elaborate introductions, it was time for the bell and a big staredown. Hunter paused to look around the stadium while Sting kept his eyes locked on Hunter. Lock-up and it's on. Sting ran over Hunter with a shoulder tackle, then he pounded his chest and howled at Hunter. Howls for the crowd. Hunter delivered a shoulder tackle, but Sting came back with a hip toss and big dropkick, stunning Hunter. Loud "You Still Got It" chant from the crowd.

 Reset and another mid-ring lock-up. Sting drove Hunter to the corner, but Hunter landed a blow to the face. Hunter followed with more offense, then landed a kneelift, but Sting no-sold. Howl. Pound the chest. Hunter was stunned. Sting dropped Hunter and teased the Scorpion Deathlock, but Hunter slithered out of the ring to get a breather. Hunter continued to sell being surprised by Sting matching and bettering him early on.

 Hunter returned to the ring at 4:40 as Sting continued to lock eyes. Another lock-up. Hunter drove Sting to the corner, but Sting reversed a whip and sent Hunter flying over the top rope to the floor. Cole said it might be too early to say this, but Sting has been pretty dominant. Sting followed to the outside, but made a mistake going for the Stinger Splash, as Hunter moved and Sting crashed into the guardrail. Hunter then chucked Sting into the ring steps.

 Back in the ring, Hunter worked over Sting as the crowd continued to buzz about the match thus far. Hunter stood up and smiled as JBL continued the narrative of WCW being below WWE. Hunter then whipped Sting into the corner turnbuckle and Sting fell down at Hunter's feet. Hunter crotch-chopped the crowd, then dropped a knee for a two count. Hunter followed with a reverse chinlock as the camera focused on a giant welt running down the back of Hunter's left leg. Sting powered out of the hold, then managed to get Hunter in the Scorpion Deathlock.

 Suddenly, DX's music played. Out came Billy Gunn, Road Dogg, and Sean Waltman. Sting cleared them from the ring, but Triple H got up and teased the Pedigree, only to have Sting back body drop him over the top rope to the floor. Sting recovered, climbed to the top turnbuckle, and big-splashed all four men down on the floor. Sting stood to his feet as the crowd saluted him.

 Sting rolled Hunter back into the ring, but Gunn went after him. Sting then turned around and took a Pedigree from Hunter. Hunter covered, but Sting kicked out of the Pedigree, wowing the crowd. "Let's Go Sting" chant as Hunter slid out of the ring and retrieved a sledgehammer. Suddenly, the NWO theme music played. Out came Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, and Scott Hall in NWO t-shirts. Are they all going to take out Sting? DX flipped out ringside as Hogan, Hall, and Nash slowly made their way down to ringside. JBL played Dusty Rhodes wondering what side the NWO is on.

 Suddenly, NWO and DX came to blows on the entrance ramp. Hogan and Nash stood tall, then Sting grabbed Hunter from behind and delivered a Scorpion Death Drop. Sting covered, but Hunter kicked out. Another big crowd reaction. Sting then put Hunter in the Scorpion Deathlock as the NWO watched ringside. Hunter tried to crawl toward the sledgehammer, but Hogan pulled it away. JBL yelled about Hogan making his name here. Suddenly, Waltman posted Hogan, so Nash took out Waltman. A big brawl broke out ringside. Meanwhile, Sting still had Hunter in the Scorpion. The focus went back to the move as Sting sat down on Hunter's back. But, Hunter powered to his stomach and reached the bottom rope for a break.

 Sting went for the Scorpion Deathlock again, but Shawn Michaels was suddenly in the ring sporting a DX t-shirt. Michaels superkicked Sting for the real WCW vs. WWE dream match that never happened, then stood over Sting as the crowd booed. HBK crotch-chopped the crowd, then Hunter draped an arm over Sting, who rolled a shoulder to escape the pin. The crowd roared again. Michaels could not believe it was not the finish.

 Another situation broke out ringside with Hunter receiving the sledgehammer from DX. Hunter stalked Sting, but Hall pulled out the baseball bat and handed it to Sting, who sold being stunned by the NWO helping him. Sting and Hunter circled each other with weapons in-hand, then Sting jabbed Hunter in the gut with his bat. That giant bruise on Hunter's leg is turning colors. Sting suddenly broke Hunter's sledgehammer in half, sending Hunter begging off. Sting delivered right hands and kicks in the corner. Big strikes, big slows. Big moment. Sting pounded his chest, then went for the Stinger Splash and connected. Hunter slumped down to the mat, then Sting stalked him for another one. But, Hunter bashed him with the head of the sledgehammer. Hunter covered, and it was good for the pin and the win.

 WINNER: Hunter at 18:36.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 10:58 am
4 -- THE BELLAS (Divas champion NIKKI BELLA & BRIE BELLA) vs. A.J. LEE & PAIGE -- Divas tag match

 A.J. sold an injury early on, leaving Paige alone to face the Bellas in basically a handicap match. Paige fought back with a double splash on the Bellas, but she could not get a pin. A.J. finally returned to the ring trying to fight through the storyline injury. She put Brie in the Black Widow and secured a submission for the win.

 WINNERS: A.J. & Paige at 6:42. Heels got their comeuppance as part of the feud, but Nikki still has the Divas Title, keeping everyone even. Tough spot following the big nostalgia match with the crowd still recovering. (**)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 11:41 am
5 -- U.S. champion RUSEV (w/Lana) vs. JOHN CENA -- United States Title match

 Before the bell sounded, Cole noted Cena won his first major title at WrestleMania 20 when he won this very U.S. Title at Madison Square Garden. As soon as the bell sounded, Cena ran over Rusev with a clothesline for a one count. Rusev came back with his own clothesline for a one count. He then dominated Cena to the point where he called for his Russian flag. Rusev waved the flag over Cena, who fought back to cut off Rusev's gloating. Cena made a comeback to boos, then hit a sit-out slam. Boos. Cena wanted the Five Knuckle Shuffle, and he connected. Early for that to connect without a counter. But, Rusev blocked the AA set-up and slammed Cena for a two count.

 Rusev stomped the mat and went for a kick, but Cena ducked, only to take a swinging slam for another nearfall. The crowd picked up a "Let's Go Lana" chant before Rusev tried to get the focus back on him with a standing kick to Cena's face. Rusev wanted a corner attack, but Cena countered with a swinging DDT for a two count. To their feet for a standing exchange. "You can't beat me, John Cena!" Rusev shouted in Cena's face. Rusev delivered the Alabama Slam, but Cena kicked out of a pin.

 Rusev stuck his foot out celebrating too much, allowing Cena to trap him and drag him down to the mat for the STF. Lana chucked her shoe into the ring trying to distract Cena, then Rusev reached the bottom rope for a break. Cena tried to shake off the distraction, but he ran into a big overhead bodyslam from Rusev. Rusev then climbed to the top rope and flew down at Cena with a diving shoulder tackle for a close two count. Rusev, exasperated, just fell back onto the mat not believing it. "Rusev, Rusev" chant from some of the crowd.

 Rusev called for the end at 11:00. He tried to apply The Accolade submission, but Cena turned his body to block and kick Rusev away. Cena then went for something like a springboard turn-around Stunner. The crowd didn't know what to make of it. Cena covered, but Rusev kicked out. WWE went to a slow-motion replay of Cena delivering the backwards Stunner of sorts. Cena tried to follow up, but he ran into a sidekick.

 Rusev slapped on The Accolade center-ring, then squeezed hard on Cena's body as the announcers acted like he was done. Which meant he was not. Cena suddenly powered to his feet, ran Rusev into the turnbuckle, and broke the hold. Rusev tried to charge Cena, but Cena dropped him to the mat with the STF. Cena dropped the hold when Lana got on the ring apron, then Rusev tried to charge Cena, but Cena moved and Rusev crashed hard into Lana, sending her flying off the ring apron to the floor. Cena then hit the AA on Rusev. One, two, no kick-out, three count for Cena.

 Post-match, Rusev yelled down at Lana and the trainer, who was checking on Lana. Cena then took his title belt, kissed the widow of Arnold Skaaland, and took a victory lap. Meanwhile, Rusev stormed away from ringside as the medics helped Lana to the back. Cena returned to the ring and celebrated with the title belt. No big American Flag drop for Cena.

 WINNER: Cena at 14:31 to capture the U.S. Title. Pretty good title match. The crowd wasn't going to be into Cena, but the chants for Lana and some chants for Rusev were not too much of a distraction. Rusev took the loss, but they tried to put the focus on Rusev-Lana issues coming out of Mania to protect Rusev somewhat. Cena winning, combined with Bryan winning the IC Title, shows a renewed focus on the mid-card titles, as long as the follow-up is strong. (**3/4)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 12:09 pm
In-ring: Triple H, now in a suit, and Stephanie McMahon were announced in the ring to boos. Stephanie said everyone here has made history setting a Levi's Stadium (marketed) record of 76,976. Steph then talked WrestleMania history and WWE Network. She said she looks out into the crowd seeing people from all 50 states and 40 countries and realizes this evolution of WWE would not be possible without ... me. She laughed and the crowd booed. Steph said WWE would not be what it is today without her and her husband, Triple H. Hunter said some of you don't like that. "And some of you don't like that I beat Sting," he said. Hunter gloated that it's as if he beat 76,976 of you and also millions more watching around the world. He said he owned Sting, just like they own every Superstar and Diva, just like everyone in the crowd. "So, whether you like it or whether you don't, it really doesn't matter because The Authority always wins," he said.

 Suddenly, The Rock's music played to interrupt a Hunter-Steph smooch. Rock emerged on-stage one day after hosting SNL as Steph sold annoyance standing in the ring. Rock marched back and forth on the WrestleMania stage as the crowd roared. Hunter and Steph continued to sell annoyance in the ring as Rock kept on walking back and forth as Cole hyped Rock starring in "Furious 7" and hosting SNL last night.

 Rock eventually marched down to the ring and posed for the fans as Hunter looked up at Rock with a sense of annoyance. Rock walked past Hunter to pose in the opposite corner, then asked for a mic. Hunter sauntered over toward Stephanie as the crowd roared and cheered for Rock. Long staredown as the crowd chanted "Rocky, Rocky." Rock approached the mic to speak, but more cheering interrupted, annoying The Authority some more. Steph sarcastically said they get it, the crowd is happy to see Rock. "Will you be quiet now?" she dryly asked. Rock went to talk again, but the crowd was too loud again, annoying Steph.

 Rock stared at Hunter, who started yelling at the fans. Rock then talked. He said Hunter and Steph do not own the people, and they damn sure don't own The Rock. Rock said what they failed to realize is that Rock is an East Bay Boy (local shout-out). Rock said Rock was born in the East Bay. Pause for another "Rocky, Rocky" chant. So, the way he sees it, either Hunter goes back there and dresses up like Terminator again, or they can create a WrestleMania Moment right here, right now. Rock talked up their rivalry, then Hunter got in his face. He said he kicked Rock's *** for most of the rivalry, and he has nothing left to prove.

 Hunter started to leave, but Rock called him back, noting Hunter has clearly left his balls in Stamford, Connecticut. Rock started bouncing up and down, then Hunter removed his coat jacket. Steph told Hunter to hang on just one second. She said Rock likes to take as many cheap-shots as possible to feed his egos, but Rock knows that without the McMahons, there would be no Rock. Rock shot her a look. Steph sneered back like a brat, then kept on looking at him.

 Steph went to Rock's family, saying High Chief, Rocky Johnson, and Dwayne Johnson would be nobody without Vince McMahon, Vince McMahon, Jr., and Stephanie McMahon. The crowd chanted for Shane McMahon, drawing an eyebrow from Rock. Rock replied that Steph would not be in power without Vince McMahon's "Johnson." Steph sarcastically said he's class as always. She then slapped Rock. Steph got in Rock's face, asking what he's going to do about it. Hit a woman? She said this is her company, her stadium, her ring, her people. She shouted in Rock's face to get out of the ring. Now.

 Rock backed away from Stephanie and leaned against the ropes, drawing more sarcasm from Stephanie, who told him to keep on walking and step right out of the ring. Rock dropped down to the floor as Stephanie continued to taunt Rock. Rock then circled around the ring instead of heading to the back. He stopped at the Four Horsewomen sitting on the front row. "Ronda Rousey" chant from the crowd. They showed Ronda on the front row to a big reaction. Rousey then hopped the guardrail and pounded fists with Rock. JBL told Stephanie to run.

 Rousey entered the ring as Rock held open the ropes. Rousey stood opposite Stephanie as Rock stood opposite Hunter to a big reaction. "Ronda's gonna kill you" chant, like a Samoa Joe chant. Rock spoke first. He said he would never hit a woman, but he has a very good friend who would be happy to. Steph smiled, saying this is a nice little surprise, but she is friends with Rousey. She said she is a big fan of Rousey. "Tell him, Ronda," she nervously said. "Ronda, please tell me Rock didn't fill you with all kinds of hopes and dreams having some kind of WrestleMania Moment."

 "Ronda, Ronda" chant from the crowd. Steph said Ronda might be the most dangerous unarmed woman on the planet. She called her the queen of the octagon, and in the world of MMA, she would never try to mess with Ronda Rousey. But, this is the squared circle. "This is my ring," Stephanie said. "So, Ronda, unless you're going to sit over there and enjoy WrestleMania like a nice little fan, get the hell out of my ring."

 Rock checked with Ronda, who told Steph with authority that any ring she steps into is hers. If she wants her to leave, then make me. Steph laughed. Steph repeated herself: "Get the hell out of my ring. Now." Ronda stood her ground, then Rock stepped in. He said he just has to tell Steph what that look from Ronda means. She said that means Ronda is going to reach inside her throat and play jump rope with her fallopian tubes.

 Hunter spoke up that he's had enough. He said that's the last thing Rock is going to say about his wife. Rock said he could not agree more. Rock landed a right hand on Hunter, rocking him into the corner. Ronda then took down Hunter. Suddenly, Steph spun Ronda around. They went face-to-face as JBL pleaded with Stephanie not to do this. Steph went for a slap, but Ronda caught her, dragged her around the ring, and pushed her away. "She showed compassion," Cole said as the crowd booed a little, wanting to see a big takedown. They eventually cheered as Rock and Rousey stood tall in the ring. Rock said what that is called is being owned. Rock said that is The Rock and Ronda Rousey laying the Smackdown on your candyasses. Rock's music signed off as Hunter tried to check on Steph's right arm on the way out. Rock and Rousey then celebrated on the way out of the ring.
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 12:37 pm

6 -- THE UNDERTAKER vs. BRAY WYATT

 Before the bell sounded, Bray charged Taker, who intercepted with a big boot to the face. The bell sounded as Taker pounded on Bray, then went Old-School with the big clothesline from the ropes. "You still got it" chant from the crowd. Bray finally got in some offense with a knock-down sending Taker to the outside, but Taker landed on his feet. Bray tried to attack, but Taker dropped him to the floor. Taker then placed Bray on the ring apron for a big boot to the head. "Under-taker" chant from the crowd. Taker then delivered the big leg drop across the chest as Bray hung on the ring apron.

 Standing in front of the Four Horsewomen, Taker smashed Bray into the barricade, then rolled him back into the ring. Taker returned to the ring and delivered a big corner attack. Taker went for Snake Eyes into the big boot, but Bray cut him off with a big clothesline. Bray lit up Taker with right hand strikes, then posed to the crowd. Taker fought back with a jab, but Bray smashed him with a corner attack for a one count.

 Bray settled on a mathold, drawing a rally clap for Taker. Bray pounded on Taker's back, then Taker leaned up and glared toward Bray before dropping to the mat. Bray got excited, so he pounded Taker into the corner. Bray then went for a move smashing Taker's head into the ringpost, but he kind of hit the ring steps with his own knees. Cole and JBL talked about this perhaps not being the same Undertaker after what happened last year. But, Lawler told them to say no to negativity. Bray suddenly walked into Hell's Gate in the middle of the ring. Bray fought the hold, then punched free.

 The crowd continued to sit quietly as Taker and Bray sold on the mat. The crowd tried to make noise to rally Taker, who slowly made it back to his feet. But, he walked into a side suplex from Wyatt. Bray covered for a nearfall, then he grabbed his left hamstring/back of his knee selling an injury. Bray collected himself in the corner, then hung upside down. Bray stalked Taker for Sister Abigail, but Taker grabbed him around the throat and "sat up" in mid-air. Taker then chokeslammed Wyatt.

 Taker staggered on his feet, then targeted Bray for the Tombstone Piledriver. Taker set it up and delivered center-ring. Taker covered, JBL said Taker is back, and Bray kicked out before three, shocking Taker. Taker collected himself, then stood up looking for another Tombstone. But, Bray countered with Sister Abigail. Taker kicked out just before three, this time stunning Wyatt. The crowd came to life after the double nearfalls, then Bray sat up doing his upside down crawl. But, Taker sat up, freaking out Bray Wyatt. Bray shot Taker a look, then they crawled opposite each other.

 Taker and Bray came to their feet and traded bombs. Double shots. Taker staggered. Taker down. Bray mocked Taker with the throat-slash gesture, then he scooped up Taker looking for another Sister Abigail. Kiss to the forehead, but Taker pushed him away and put Bray in the Tombstone. Taker connected on a second, then Taker covered for the pin and the win.

 Post-match, they showed fans celebrating the return of The Undertaker as Taker looked toward the sky. WWE replayed the finish and fans getting to celebrate this year before cutting to a semi-dark Stadium for purple lighting and pyro to fill the sky. Taker knelt down and posed for the crowd as Cole declared that the big dog rules the yard again. Taker left the ring to cheers and looked around the stadium before WWE faded out.

 WINNER: Taker at 15:12. Another good WrestleMania match. They kept it basic for Taker's first match in one year and gave him a win back to set up a headline match next year in Dallas. But, at some point Bray has to win a big match to be taken seriously after losing to John Cena last year at Mania. Of course, WWE did not draw attention to Bray losing last year during this build-up, but Bray has to be rehabbed now on television. (***)
Title: WWE Wrestlemania XXXI Results: 3-29-15
Post by: Arcademan on March 30 2015, 01:14 pm
7 -- WWE World Hvt. champion BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) vs. ROMAN REIGNS -- WWE World Hvt. Title match

 Reigns tried to go after Lesnar, but Lesnar blocked him and gave him a big German Suplex. Lesnar came up bleeding from his cheek, then he smashed Reigns with a big F5. Lesnar opted not to cover Reigns, just stand in the corner soaking in what happened in the opening minute. The announcers talked about this being Lesnar toying with Reigns and looking to torment him, feeling like the presentation of Lesnar vs. John Cena at Extreme Rules 2012.

 Reigns teased a comeback to boos, then Lesnar smashed him with another German Suplex. Lesnar paced the ring, then Reigns recovered in the corner and smiled, telling Brock to bring it harder. Lesnar delivered another suplex. "Suplex City, b----," Lesnar shouted at Reigns. Reigns tried to fight back with rights to boos, but Lesnar delivered another suplex. Lesnar got a crazy look in his eyes, then Reigns sat up smiling again. So, Lesnar delivered another German Suplex. Lesnar stalked Reigns as his cheek swelled up. Lesnar dominating is definitely trying to plant the seeds for the possibility of Reigns not winning to keep the crowd invested, following up on Heyman's pre-match TV hype of Reigns taking a major butt-kicking at WrestleMania.

 Reigns sat up shaking his head, so Lesnar kneed him in the gut. Lesnar then suplexed Reigns onto the top rope. Lesnar smashed Reigns off the ring apron to the floor and Reigns shook his head selling the effects. Lesnar then charged Reigns for a shoulder to the gut, but Reigns sold blocking the move and stunning Lesnar. Reigns made a comeback to boos, but Lesnar caught Reigns's leg and smashed him with a clothesline down to the ground. They're building layers of Reigns getting in a little offense, Lesnar smashing him, and building up Reigns's comeback a little more each time.

 Lesnar dragged Reigns back into the ring as JBL said this is about Lesnar having the WWE Title until he decides to give it up. Lesnar then suplexed Reigns out of the ring as the camera focused on Lesnar's facial cut. Reigns got up, so Lesnar tossed him back into the ring with an overhead suplex. "Eight" chant from the crowd, counting along with the suplexes. Reigns sold being knocked out, then Lesnar dropped Reigns with another F5. Cole said this is over, but Reigns kicked out at 9:00. Lesnar just smirked, saying this kid is crazy for continuing.

 Gloves off for Lesnar. Lesnar stood over Reigns, then slapped him across the face. Reigns shook his jaw, then looked up at Lesnar saying he can take more. Reigns got more defiant, then he started smiling and laughing through blood. So, Lesnar picked up Reigns and suplexed him again. And again. "Ten!" the crowd shouted. Lesnar went for another F5, and he connected. Lesnar covered, but Reigns kicked out of a third F5. The crowd booed Reigns kicking out of a third F5, which ended Taker last year. Heyman shouted to Brock that Reigns is disrespecting him.

 At 11:30, Lesnar dumped Reigns to the outside. On commentary, JBL said he saw Cena take a butt-kicking like this, trying to build up Reigns. Lesnar tried to attack Reigns on the floor, but Reigns posted Lesnar. Lesnar came up bleeding from the forehead, dripping blood. Lesnar nearly got counted out, rolling back into the ring at nine. The crowd almost wanted him to get counted out to make sure Reigns didn't win the title. Lesnar stood up, Super Reigns cocked his fist, the crowd booed, and Reigns delivered a Superman Punch. Lesnar did not go down, though. Another Superman Punch put Lesnar in the corner. Reigns tried a third, but Lesnar ducked. Reigns headbutted Lesnar's cut, then delivered a third Superman. Lesnar got up, wobbled around the ring, and Reigns delivered a spear to louder boos. Lesnar recovered to the corner, then Reigns delivered a second spear. Reigns covered, but Lesnar rolled a shoulder like half of a millisecond before three. It looked like the end.

 Reigns recovered to the corner, then stalked Lesnar for another spear, but Lesnar ducked, and delivered another F5. Seth Rollins suddenly showed up with the MITB briefcase. He cashed in despite the match still ongoing. He handed over the briefcase and WWE suddenly changed the rules to this being a triple threat match.

 The bell re-sounded and Rollins dumped Reigns out of the ring, then dropped Lesnar with a Curb Stomp. Suddenly, Lesnar scooped up Rollins for an F5, but Reigns hit the ring and speared Lesnar. But, Rollins discarded Lesnar and dropped Reigns with a Curb Stomp. Rollins pinned Reigns and it was good for the pin and the win.

 Post-match, the crowd freaked out as Rollins jumped up and down in the ring. Rollins grabbed the belt and ran the heck away from the ring. The announcers tried to talk about the moment as Rollins celebrated on the stage, the top heel from The Authority making sure than ABR (Anybody But Reigns) was champion. They replayed the finish and showed Rollins standing tall on the stage. Brock recovered at ringside with Heyman while Reigns sold being stunned inside the ring while pyro shot off inside the Stadium. Cole signed off as they hit the top of the hour, ending the four-hour PPV.

 WINNER: Rollins at 16:43 to capture the WWE World Hvt. Title. So, that happened. So many "outs" with Rollins/Authority changing the MITB rules by cashing in in the middle of match, so many possibilities post-Mania with Lesnar getting his title re-match down the road, Orton being in line for a title shot after beating Rollins, Reigns feeling wronged to set up a title match against Rollins, and how The Authority factors into things. But, the vocal crowd got what it wanted - Reigns took a beating and he did not get the comeback victory. Rather, Tyler Black from ROH finished WrestleMania as WWE World Hvt. champion. Crazy finish to a very good main event built around Lesnar as a powerhouse and protecting Reigns, who literally only had three moves in the match. (****)
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on June 12 2015, 09:36 am
Dusty Rhodes dead at 69 (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/the-turnstile/dusty-rhodes-dead-at-69--wwe-announces-183257553.html)

The American Dream is dead.

The WWE announced on Thursday afternoon that Virgil Runnels, a.k.a. Dusty Rhodes, died earlier in the day.

Rhodes is a WWE Hall of Famer and a three-time NWA Champion. Always one of the most distinctive and fascinating wrestlers, the man nicknamed The American Dream never failed to entertain and/or enrage every time he stepped into the ring. His career began in the 1970s and continued into the 90s.

In one of the great professional wrestling gimmicks, Rhodes was once banned from wrestling in the state of Florida for 60 days after losing a match. Days later, a masked wrestler who called himself The Midnight Rider showed up on the scene. Like Rhodes, The Midnight Rider was over 6 feet tall, weighed around 265 pounds and talked with a bit of a drawl.

The father of two other wrestlers, Goldust (Dustin Runnels) and Stardust (Cody Runnels), Dusty remained active in the WWE long after his retirement from wrestling.
Title: Re: The Official Wrestling Thread (now with more news and stuff)
Post by: Arcademan on August 01 2015, 10:41 am
'Rowdy' Roddy Piper dead at 61 (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/the-turnstile/wrestling-superstar-roddy-piper-dead-at-61-224152886.html)

Wrestling superstar "Rowdy" Roddy Piper has died at age 61. Multiple reports indicate that Piper died in his sleep from a heart attack.

"Rod passed peacefully in his sleep last night," Piper's agent Jay Schacter told Variety. “I am shocked and beyond devastated.”

Upon learning of his death, WWE chairman Vince McMahon tweeted that Piper was "one of the most entertaining, controversial and bombastic performers ever in WWE beloved by millions of fans around the world."

Piper, whose real name was Roddy Toombs, is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame, and was one of the core members of the '80s-era WWE (then known as the WWF). Born in Saskatchewan, Canada, Piper competed in the very first Wrestlemania, working a faux-Scottish angle in a tag-team match (along with Mr. Wonderful Paul Orndorff) against Hulk Hogan and Mr. T, and quickly became one of the sport's most hated villains.

Piper's rivalries with Hogan, Jimmy Snuka and even Cyndi Lauper set the tone for the WWF, helping the wrestling organization achieve the nationwide prominence that it enjoys to this day.

Piper's key gimmick was "Piper's Pit," a mock talk show in which Piper would sit down with fellow wrestlers to talk out the issues of the day. Naturally, the talk lasted less than a minute before the fists flew.

Piper later became an actor, with over 100 credits to his name, according to IMDB, including the 1988 cult classic "They Live."
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 10:26 am
Pre-show results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). (http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/03/wm32preshow/)

A — U.S. champion KALISTO vs. RYBACK — United States Title match

Early “Goldberg” chant for Ryback. Kalisto and Ryback did the David vs. Goliath match as people in the building tried to engage. Kalisto sent Ryback to the floor, but Ryback turned it around on the floor. Ryback stood tall in the ring before WWE faded to a “Network break.”

Back from break, Ryback scored a nearfall. Meanwhile, fans facing the hard camera entertained themselves with this weird setting of empty chairs everywhere as the opening match unfolded. Ryback eventually tried to play to the crowd, then he delivered a running Michinoku Driver for a two count. Lawler said it’s only a matter of time until Ryback finishes the champ.

Ryback took Kalisto to the top turnbuckle and said this is his WrestleMania Moment. Ryback hoisted him in the air for an extended-length delayed superplex, but Kalisto turned it around in mid-air. Ryback shook him off, but walked right into a DDT. Kalisto snapped off a running huracanrana for a two count. Then a corkscrew elbow smash for a nearfall. Ranallo said Kalisto is tributing Hyabusa tonight, then Ryback smashed him to the mat.

Ryback taunted Kalisto, telling the little guy to get up. Kalisto ended up ripping away the middle turnbuckle before Ryback tried a powerbomb. Kalisto landed on his feet, though, and shoved Ryback into the exposed steel. Kalisto then jumped off the ropes into a springboard Salida del Sol on Ryback for the pin and the win. The match conveniently ended right before the top of the hour when USA picks up their pre-show coverage.

WINNER: Kalisto at 8:58 to retain the U.S. Title. As expected, Kalisto retained and Ryback had an “out” taking the exposed steel before losing. Mid-card action in front of a crowd slowly filing into the building. (**)

B — TEAM TOTAL DIVAS (BRIE BELLA & ALICIA FOX & NATALYA & EVA MARIE & PAIGE) vs. TEAM BAD & BLONDE (NAOMI & TAMINA & LANA & EMMA & SUMMER RAE) — 10-Divas tag match

The match broke down into a 10-Divas stand-off and WWE cut to an early “Network break.”

Back from break, Eva Marie was in the ring drawing boos from the fans in the building. Eva then played up not getting along with her teammates and slap-tagged Natalya into the match. The heels isolated Natalya until Paige hot-tagged into the match. Wrestlers came in and out trying to get in their big moves until Lana tagged in making her in-ring debut. Russian bicycle kick to Paige, then she taunted Brie. She left on a high note, bringing in Tamina.

The match built to a Tower of Doom spot with Paige trying to wipe out the heels. Eventually, she just dove onto heels down at ringside, drawing applause from her teammates. Paige then tagged in Brie, who teed off on Total Divas escapee Naomi with Yes! kicks. Eva then brought the match to a screeching halt and took a kick to the face from Summer Rae. Chaos ensued with Divas in and out of the ring. It came down to Brie and Naomi, who walked into an armbar into the Yes! Lock. Naomi fought, but tapped out, giving Brie her pre-retirement send-off.

Post-match, Nikki Bella walked down the ramp to the ring in wrestling gear while sporting a neckbrace. Nikki hugged everyone in the ring, then the Total Divas did a curtain call. Brie was hoisted into the air.

WINNERS: Team Total Divas at 11:25. The match built, then kind of fell off at the end when they tried to get everyone in the ring for chaos. Fine farewell for Brie. (*3/4)

3 — THE USOS (JIMMY & JEY USO) vs. THE DUDLEYS (BUBBA RAY & DEVON)

WWE cut to a USA break about 30 seconds in, but the Network feed stayed with the match. The Dudleys took control of the match, wearing down Jimmy. Bubba talked a lot of trash, which was audibly mic’ed for added effect. He said he was going to beat him up like he did his daddy Rikishi.

Bubba wanted to tribute Stan Hansen with a lariat, but Jimmy finally escaped to tag in Jey, who unfortunately walked into a top-rope diving headbutt combo from Devon to Uso’s crotch. Bubba and Devon teased getting the tables, going against their heel statement of never using tables again, but Jimmy superkicked them. The crowd booed, of course. The Dudleys wanted a 3D, but Jey superkicked Devon in the mouth after Jimmy cleared Bubba from the ring. Jey then covered Devon for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Usos at 5:18. A basic Raw TV match that the crowd didn’t really engage in since they’re not into the over-exposed and under-developed Usos and fans wanted the Dudleys in a bigger match. (**)

Post-match, the crowd booed the outcome until Bubba returned to the ring to knock down the Usos. The crowd popped for the Dudleys teasing tables usage, which Ranallo said was hypocritical. Bubba and Devon set up tables in the ring, but The Usos cut them off to boos. The Usos put Devon and Bubba on the tables, then hit stereo splashes through the tables. Well, at the least the Dudleys got to do a Hall of Fame induction last night.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 10:31 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's real-time report). (http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/03/wm32liveresults/)

1 — IC champion KEVIN OWENS vs. SAMI ZAYN vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. THE MIZ vs. STARDUST vs. ZACK RYDER vs. SIN CARA — seven-way Intercontinental Title ladder match

The match started with Owens and Zayn, popping the crowd for the match-up they wanted to see for the belt. Stardust, in Dusty Rhodes black & gold polka-dots, cracked them across the back with a ladder to get some ring time. Owens then back-dropped Zayn onto a ladder. “Who do you think you are? This is KOMania! Go back to NXT!” he shouted. Ryder then smashed Owens and teased climbing. Hard to tell if the crowd was booing (wanting someone besides Ryder to win) or wooing like three years ago.

Zayn suddenly went nuts with a trademark flip dive through a ladder taking out five dudes on the floor. He then ran across the floor to Torpedo DDT Owens on the outside of the ringside area. The crowd went nuts for the sequence. Zayn tried to get back in the ring and take the belt, but Sin Cara cut him off on the ladder. Sin Cara then wiped out dudes on the floor with a springboard top-rope splash.

Back in the ring, Ziggler paid tribute to Mr. WrestleMania Shawn Michaels with a superkick before trying to climb the ladder. But, Owens pushed him down and both men superkicked each other. Suddenly, Stardust went under the ring to retrieve a black polka-dotted ladder, popping the crowd for the Papa Dusty tribute. Stardust, fired up, cleaned the ring of opponents. But, Owens returned to the ring to smash Miz with a neckbreaker across his leg.

Owens chucked the polka-dot ladder out of the ring, then Zayn attacked him. But, Owens cut him off and put him on a ladder. Owens then climbed to the top turnbuckle and delivered a giant frogsplash to Zayn, crunching the ladder. Owens sold injuring himself with the splash, giving Miz an opening to attack him from behind. But, Owens shook him off and delivered a pop-up powerbomb. Ryder cut off Owens, then climbed to the top of a ladder and delivered a giant elbow drop to Miz as his head brushed against the title belt hanging from the ceiling.

Ryder and Ziggler then climbed a ladder and battled before knocking each other down from the ladder. Ziggler sold injuring his left knee on the landing. Dolph hopped up a ladder on one leg, but Owens grabbed him and delivered a powerbomb off the ladder. Sin Cara got some spotlight, but Zayn cut him off trying to climb. Owens then pushed Cara off the ladder and he crashed through Stardust and the ladder Cody was resting on, taking out both men down on the floor.

Owens was alone in the ring looking to climb, but Zayn scampered back into the ring to cut him off. Another Owens-Zayn battle, this time on top of a ladder with the title belt hanging over their head. Hand on the belt. Another hand. Owens thumbed Zayn int he eye, but Zayn refused to let Owens grab the belt. T-bone suplex into a ladder, wiping out Owens.

Zayn wanted to climb the ladder. JBL said he’s leaving WrestleMania as IC champion, which meant he was not. And, Miz ruined his moment knocking Zayn off the ladder. Miz started climbing to boos, then he gloated about winning the title, but Ryder suddenly climbed up the ladder and pushed him down from behind. Ryder, alone, got a mixed reaction, but then he reached up and grabbed the title belt to a loud pop.

Post-match, Ryder celebrated on the ladder, looking as fired up as anyone ever has winning a ladder match. Ryder’s dad then hopped into the ring and met Ryder when he climbed down from the ladder. After a replay of Ryder winning the match, they cut back to Ryder standing on top of the ladder woo-woo-woo’ing with the crowd. Cole said he toiled for 10 years and finally accomplished his dream.

WINNER: Ryder at 15:23 to capture the Intercontinental Title. Exciting match with some nice, tight sequences, especially the Owens-Zayn business that can lead into TV. Ryder’s win was completely out of nowhere if you didn’t see the betting lines completely flip on Saturday. There was hardly any story build-up other than Ryder getting a fluke win over Chris Jericho on Raw leading into Mania. (***1/4)

2 — A.J. STYLES vs. CHRIS JERICHO

Styles entered the ring and soaked it up as the opening bell sounded. The crowd picked up a loud “A-J-Styles” chant, taunting Jericho. Jericho got the upper hand, but Styles clotheslined him over the top rope. On the floor, Jericho grabbed a chair and chucked it to the ground in frustration.

Styles chased Jericho back into the ring and slammed him, then nailed an innovative armdrag. Styles then one-upped Jericho after avoiding his offense, sending Jericho flying to the floor. Styles wanted a plancha, but Jericho kicked Styles in mid-air.

Back in the ring, Jericho worked on Styles. He lost focus, though, allowing Styles to nail rapid-fire slaps and strikes into a leaping dropkick. Styles wanted to follow up, but Jericho rolled through into the Walls of Jericho in the middle of the ring. Styles dragged himself to the bottom rope to break free, though.

The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Jericho yelled at Styles as he pounded him with forearms. Styles blocked, then grappled Jericho and delivered a front-face superplex that put both men down on the mat. Both men returned to their feet and Styles wanted the Pele Kick, but Jericho grabbed Styles’s foot and put him back in the Walls of Jericho. Styles fought the hold, then rolled underneath Jericho to punch and kick free. And he flowed into the Calf Crusher submission. Jericho slapped himself around refusing to tap out. He then elbowed Styles in the back of the head and nearly pinned him.

Jericho tried to attack Styles, who caught him in mid-air for a Clash teaser. Jericho blocked, then dumped Styles over the top rope to the ring apron. Styles rocked him with a forearm, then went for the springboard forearm, but Jericho ducked and nailed the Codebreaker. Jericho was slow to make a cover, though, allowing Styles to kick out. Jericho sold being shocked that he wasn’t able to finish off Styles.

Reset at 12:00 with Jericho slapping around Styles. He wanted the Styles Clash with a big grin on his face, but Styles knew the counter to his own finisher and flowed into a wheelbarrow slam for a close two count. They went into a reverse/counter sequence ending with Styles nailing the Styles Clash in the middle of the ring. The crowd went nuts. But, Jericho kicked out, causing the crowd to go mental.

Reset at 15:00 with both men selling exhaustion. Styles walked into a forearm strike, but Styles smashed him back. Big knock down blow by Styles, but he ran right into boots from Jericho. Jericho wanted the Lionsault, but Styles blocked with knees to the gut. Styles then wanted a springboard 450 splash, and he connected. Styles covered, but Jericho kicked out again. Styles sat up with a fired-up  look on his face, then he snap-suplexed Jericho.

Styles got up and removed his elbow pad with a crazy look in his eyes. Styles wanted the Phenomenal Forearm as Jericho sold on the mat. Styles fired up the crowd before he approached Jericho for the forearm, but the ref was obviously way too close. Styles hesitated when Jericho pulled the ref in the way and he was able to grab Styles for a mid-air Codebreaker. Jericho covered Styles for the win as the announcers argued about Jericho using the ref to defeat Styles.

WINNER: Jericho at 17:10. A very good WrestleMania match with an anti-climatic ending. WWE’s booking plans changed on this one to Jericho winning, making you wonder if they were going to have a big run-in to cause Styles to lose, but instead it was a slight heel tactic from Jericho to get his win and give Styles an “out.” TV follow-up will be interesting to see if they have a fifth match to decide the series. (***3/4)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 10:43 am
3 — WWE tag champions NEW DAY (KOFI KINGSTON & BIG E. & XAVIER WOODS) vs. LEAGUE OF NATIONS (SHEAMUS & RUSEV & ALBERTO DEL RIO w/King Barrett) — six-man tag match

As the bell sounded, Cole relayed what WWE decided on this match – a six-man tag, not a four-on-three handicap match. Barrett was the odd-man out. Sheamus overpowered Xavier early on. Rusev, sporting new wrestling trunks and boots, tagged in to work on Xavier. The League worked on Xavier for 4-5 minutes before he dumped Del Rio clear over the top rope to the floor. Barrett tried to encourage Del Rio to stop Xavier from making a tag, and he was able to cut him off by tagging in Sheamus, who blasted Xavier.

Xavier eventually tagged in Kofi, who cleaned house. He introduced a new double-knee smash with a push-down as opposed to fall-away element to differentiate from the Codebreaker. Barrett got involved from the outside, though, nearly costing Kofi the match. Big E. re-emerged and tagged into the match to spear and tackle all three League participants off the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Kofi and Xavier combined for a top-rope double stomp to Sheamus for a close two count. Xavier did not follow up, allowing Del Rio to take him out with a Backstabber. Del Rio then wiped out Kofi with a double foot stomp to the chest on the ring apron. Back in the ring, Xavier stumbled into a Bullhammer from Barrett on the outside. The ref didn’t see it, then Sheamus wiped out Xavier with a Brogue Kick for the win, generating groans from the crowd.

WINNERS: The League at 10:03. Basic TV quality tag match. New Day’s pre-match routine is over, but when they settle into a default face role in a tag match setting, it’s a bit jarring for the crowd used to seeing New Day play the heel role without ever turning face. (**1/4)

Post-match: The League celebrated in the ring, then Barrett took the mic, which could mean only one thing – a post-match angle. Barrett said no three-man unit in history could match them. Shawn Michaels’s music played to interrupt, popping the crowd. Michaels, looking in great shape, got fired up on the stage and posed, then Mick Foley’s music played to bring out a slimmed-down Cactus Jack looking to fight. They needed a third man. The glass broke and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin came out to a huge pop. Big moment for Austin, Foley, and Michaels on the stage in Texas. Austin was dressed in blue jeans, a Dallas 3:16 t-shirt, and tennis shoes for his physical involvement of the night.

Austin led HBK and Foley down to the ring as The League noted there are four of them and three of them. The crowd went mental for the scene. Suddenly, New Day yanked out one of the heels from the outside and the fight was on. Michaels nailed Sweet Chin Music, Foley pulled out Mr. Socko, and Austin dropped a Stunner. Barrett was then tossed back into the ring to take the assembly line Superkick, claw, and Stunner. JBL popped for the Texas reunion down the road from the Sportatorium.

Stone Cold’s music played again, then was interrupted by New Day’s tune. New Day danced and celebrated with HBK, Austin, and Foley. Austin danced with Xavier like a goof, then dropped Xavier with a Super Stunner. Great sell by Xavier. New Day exited and Stone Cold’s music played again. Beers were tossed into the ring and Michaels sold feeling uncomfortable holding this can in his hands. Austin went full Stone Cold mode as the crowd popped. Foley enjoyed a beverage as the Texas Trio celebrated on the way out.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 11:04 am
4 — BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) vs. DEAN AMBROSE — No Holds Barred Street Fight match

As soon as the bell sounded, Lesnar grabbed Ambrose and smashed him into the corner. Big suplex followed. Then a second. “Two!” the crowd shouted. Ambrose shook it off, then smirked. Release German Suplex marked #3 in the first 50 seconds. Ambrose rolled to the floor and grabbed a kendo stick, which he used to blast Brock. Brock took the blows going back into the ring, but shook off the attack and snapped off suplexes #4 and 5.

Lesnar grabbed a kendo stick and snapped it over his leg, saying he doesn’t need it. German Suplex to make it #6. Dean comically indicated he’s good, then fell to the mat. Saxton took Ambrose back to Puerto Rico when he fought through batteries, prompting JBL to scream at him for comparing Brock to batteries. Suplex #7 interrupted JBL yelling at Saxton.

Lesnar then scooped up Ambrose and tossed him overhead for Suplex #8. Lesnar stepped on Ambrose as he reached for kendo sticks scraps, then let him get up. Dean thanked him with a slap to the face. Brock, agitated, stalked his prey until Dean fired back with forearm strikes. And, Brock had enough of that, landing suplex #9. (Notably, they are putting the number of suplexes on the Titantron after each one.)

Brock then picked up a kendo stick looking to take a swing for the fences. No, he didn’t need a stick. He told Ambrose to come get the stick and Dean obliged. Suddenly, Dean smashed Brock with a low-blow, sending Heyman into a tizzy. Dean smashed Brock with the kendo stick, sending him out of the ring, then he flew through the ropes with a suicide dive to the outside.

On the floor, Dean grabbed his chainsaw gifted by Terry Funk, but Lesnar suplexed him on the floor, landing #10. The crowd chanted “10, 10, 10” for the Perfect 10 Tye Dillinger NXT gimmick. It was short-lived, as Dean fired back on Brock with a chair to the back. Dean tried to climb back into the ring with the chair, but Brock stormed the ring ropes and suplexed Dean clear off the top rope for #11.

Lesnar then picked up the kendo stick and decided he wanted to use it this time, but Dean suddenly sprayed him with a fire extinguisher. Dean grabbed a chair and smashed a blinded Brock with it. Dean then put the chair in Brock’s face and nailed a running basement dropkick sending the chair into Brock’s face. Dean then climbed to the top turnbuckle and delivered a chair-aided elbow smash to the chest, resulting in a two count.

Reset at 10:00. Dean left the ring and tossed a dozen chairs into the ring as Brock recovered. Dean charged Brock with a chair, but Brock ducked and suplexed Dean over the chairs for #12. Brock actually landed on the chairs delivering the suplex. Brock got up first and picked up Dean looking for an F5 into the pile of chairs, but Dean landed on his feet and DDT’ed Brock near the chairs for a close two count.

Dean had enough of this and tossed his shirt away. Dean mocked Brock’s pose to laughs, then went under the ring looking for Mick Foley’s gifted Barbed Wire baseball bat. Dean returned to the ring eyeing Brock as his target for a swing, but Brock blocked. He then German Suplexed Dean onto the pile of chairs, marking #13. Heyman told Brock to finish him, and Brock delivered a massive F5 onto the chairs. Brock covered Dean for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Lesnar at 13:06. Expected result and they gave Dean enough offense and cool moments to not be washed away by the outcome. Just a lot tamer of a match than expected with the Street Fight stipulation. More like a WWE-style brawl focusing on one item or one weapon-aided sequence at a time. (***1/2)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 11:46 am
5 — (Former) Divas champion CHARLOTTE (w/Ric Flair) vs. SASHA BANKS vs. BECKY LYNCH — three-way match for newly introduced WWE Women’s Title

The crowd was jacked at the start of the match. Would they stay jacked once the three-way formula played out with Sasha in a bit of a tweener role and Becky the lovable, yet non-winning babyface? They built to a spot where Flair got involved from the outside. He woo’ed in Sasha’s face, so Becky came flying over the top rope splashing Flair. Flair fell on top of Becky on the way down, then rolled to the ground selling a loss of consciousness.

The match resumed in the ring with the ladies trading submissions, only to be broken up by the other participant. Charlotte even went for a moonsault resulting in a nearfall. Meanwhile, live correspondents are noting studio audience-like cues on the scoreboard, a la the Suplex Counter for Brock-Dean. Back in the ring, all three battled in the corner. Sasha ended up being upside-down in the corner, then Becky superplexed Charlotte right over Sasha.

Sasha recovered and tried to put Becky in the Bank Statement, but Charlotte threw Sasha out of the ring. She then put Becky in the figure-eight submission. Sasha tried to get back in the ring, but Flair had Sasha by the feet, preventing her from breaking it up. Becky was forced to tap out to Charlotte, keeping the gold with the Flairs. The crowd groaned.

Post-match, Saxton and JBL argued about Flair’s involvement, then Cole tried to promote the WWE marketing of a new era of women’s wrestling, etc., trying to cover for the babyfaces losing.

WINNER: Charlotte retained via submission at 16:03, ending the Divas Title era and continuing as the new WWE Women’s champion. Usually, if you have a heel who regularly cheats outside the ring and you get to a big event, you have the heel get neutralized in order for the babyface to prove his/her superiority when the heel is removed from the equation. So, the booking made no sense for this to continue at Mania. Perhaps Mania isn’t a big enough event to pay off Flair’s repeated interference with the face(s) conquering. Or, tomorrow night’s Raw is bigger than Mania. Strange. The rest of the match was strong. (***)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 12:29 pm
6 — THE UNDERTAKER vs. SHANE MCMAHON — Hell in a Cell match — If Shane wins, he gains control of Raw — if Shane loses, he gives up the lockbox to Vince McMahon — if Taker loses, this is his final WrestleMania

Shane came out of his corner with a pump kick trying to pick a fight with Taker. Shane tried to fire off some right hands that Taker shook off. Shane wanted to do an MMA-style fight with kicks and blows while dancing around the ring. Taker then kneed him in the gut to take control of the Cell. He tossed Shane out of the ring to the floor next to a Cell wall.

Back in the ring, Taker knocked down Shane with a big blow, then dropped Shane with Snake Eyes, but Shane came flying out of the corner with an impressive strike. Taker kind of kneeled up to almost no-sell and shake off the move, then he threw Shane out of the ring. Taker chucked Shane into a Cell wall, then grabbed ring steps. Taker blasted Shane, then dragged him back into the ring.

Taker lifted Shane in the air and delivered a Last Ride powerbomb in the ring. But, Shane kicked out of a pin. Taker was offended by this, so he left the ring to grab the ring steps looking to end Shane, but Shane grabbed Taker in a submission. Shane pumped his fist as if he thought he was going to beat Taker. Taker sold for Shane using just one arm to keep him locked in a submission. Taker eventually broke free, then chokeslammed Shane onto the ring steps. Taker covered Shane on the ring steps, but Shane kicked/rolled out. The crowd booed a bit.

The match hit 9:00 as Taker paced the ring, then wanted a running elbow onto the ring steps, but Shane moved and Taker ate the ring steps. Taker slowly got up and Shane welcomed him to bring it again, so Taker did, and Shane moved, sending Taker face-first into the ring steps. Shane then punched away at Taker, but Taker put him in Hell’s Gate. Shane fought the hold as he groaned to sell pain. He survived Taker’s submission finish, then rolled into a submission of his own, eventually trying to put Taker in the Sharpshooter. He didn’t apply it in full, so Taker eventually kicked him away.

Taker recovered in the corner showing age as Shane punched him with right hands. Shane then went under the ring to retrieve a trashcan. Shane stomped and kicked Taker, then put the trashcan over Taker. Shane wanted the Coast-to-Coast dropkick, he balanced himself on the top rope, and he flew across the ring kicking the can into Taker’s chest.

Shane very slowly managed to cover Taker, who kicked out before three. Shane then left the ring and retrieved some wire-cutters. 17 minutes in, Shane cut open a hole in the Cell as the announcers speculated on Shane’s plans. Taker then met Shane on the floor to resume their fight trading right hand blows. Suddenly, Taker picked up Shane and threw him through the Cell wall, landing on the German announce table.

At 18:00, both men rested on the Cell wall trying to recover. Taker then punched away at Shane before clearing the ringside announce tables. He picked up the oddly-shaped TV monitor that Shane used on him last Monday on Raw and he popped it over Shane’s head. Taker then chucked Shane into the barricade and they spilled into the crowd near Sign Guy.

Taker eventually put Shane on a platform near the announce tables looking for a Tombstone, but Shane hopped on his back and applied a standing sleeperhold hanging onto Taker’s back. Drool from Taker. Taker then regrouped and flung both of them through the air and through one of the tables to break the sleeper.

Super Shane got up first and grabbed a toolbox, which he bounced off Taker’s face. He then emptied the contents of the toolbox onto Taker’s face with another box shot. Shane leaned against the Cell wall as Taker sold on the remaining announce table. Shane then looked up and the crowd went there with him. Shane bashed Taker in the face one more time with the TV monitor, then looked to the top of the Cell. Shane started climbing to the top of the Cell as Taker continued to sell on the table. Shane sold exhaustion once he got to the top of the Cell. “Shane, get down!” Cole shouted on commentary.

Shane peered over the edge of the Cell as Taker continued to sell on the table. Cole told him to think about his sons and his wife. Shane eventually stood up on the Cell, took a careful step forward to the edge, crossed himself, and dove off the Cell like a kid jumping off the high dive for a first time going into 10-foot-deep water. As Shane came falling down, Taker moved out of the way and Shane crashed right through the table, landing with his butt in the air over his head. Refs immediately checked on Shane, whose eyes fluttered selling being KO’ed. Cole freaked out on commentary, then Taker shot a look like this kid is crazy and he just avoided being killed if Shane connected with the dive.

Taker slowly came back to his feet after getting over the shock of Shane’s big flying attempt. Suddenly, Shane got up and told Taker to bring it. So, Taker punched him, then dragged him back into the ring. Taker was slow to recover to his feet as Shane sold losing feeling in his body five minutes removed from the dive. Taker then told Shane to bring it. Shane told him to bring it back, so Taker patted him on the cheek, picked him up in the air, and delivered a Tombstone in the middle of the ring. Taker covered Shane for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Cole said Taker’s WrestleMania legacy is intact and he will be able to continue at WrestleMania. The announcers then talked up Shane wanting to be an agent of change for WWE. They talked up Shane’s guts before noting Taker’s Mania record of 23-1.

Taker then left the ring and slowly walked up the entrance ramp as a cart went flying past him down to the ring. Apparently it was to help Shane out of the ring. Shane writhed on the mat selling the effects of the match before EMTs entered the ring to place Shane on a backbrace and get him out of the ring. Meanwhile, the announcers talked about Shane going to extreme lengths wanting to prove his legacy and be an agent of change in WWE. WWE replayed Shane going off the Cell through a table before cutting back to Shane being placed on the backbrace and taken out of the ring on a cart as the crowd applauded. So dramatic trying to finish off the story. Shane did the Thumbs Up gimmick on the way out before pounding his chest.

WINNER: Taker at 30:05. They went for an epic Mania story, but it was Shane McMahon, a non-wrestler against Undertaker in one of Taker’s last WrestleMania matches. Just a weird deal from start to finish.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 12:56 pm
In-ring: Wrestlers started filling the ring for the Andre the Giant battle royal. Baron Corbin from NXT was in the mix. So was Tatanka. Mark Henry got his own ring entrance, introduced from Silsbee, Texas. Henry threw up the Hook ‘Em Horns as Cole talked up Henry coming home to East Texas for WrestleMania. Kane’s music then played to bring him out. Bang! Diamond Dallas Page’s music played to bring out DDP as a special entrant. Product Placement in full effect with a DDPYoga t-shirt. Big Show got an entrance, too, as the defending champion. Everyone stared at Show, then new music played. It was Shaq storming the ring as the final entrant.

7 — 20-MAN ANDRE THE GIANT BATTLE ROYAL

The bell sounded for Shaq and Big Show to have a big staredown. Then, they double chokeslammed Kane. The whole ring cleared out for Shaq and Big Show to resume their Guest-Star Era feud. Fandango entered the ring and got tossed. Damien Sandow then entered and got tossed to boos. Shaq and Show then had a double chokeslam grip battle, leading to the rest of the battle royal entering the match trying to push both men out of the ring. Shaq was dumped over the top, then Show was dumped over the top for two eliminations. Show and Shaq shook hands before leaving to the back.

The battle royal resumed with the rest of the guys battling amongst themselves after WWE got their big spot of the match out of the way in the opening minutes. Suddenly, Page dropped Viktor with a Diamond Cutter. Connor then dumped out Page. Connor was then eliminated.

Suddenly, Tatanka started feeling it with the ’90s foot stomp no-selling Adam Rose. Tatanka delivered a nostalgia top-rope chop, then measured Rose for a clothesline, but Corbin dumped Tatanka over the top rope. Corbin laughed to himself, then Kane eliminated Jack Swagger. Curtis Axel, wearing PacSun board shorts, went after Kane for a bit.

Truth tried to get some shine, but he got dumped out. Goldust then took a dive from the Social Outcasts, who were ruling the ring. Slater, Bo Dallas, Axel, and Rose did a victory lap around the ring, drawing Kane’s ire. Kane stopped all four in their tracks and they ended up running into Corbin. Axel was eliminated, then Rose. Kane chokeslammed Corbin, though. Henry then dumped out Slater. Tyler Breeze tried to attack Henry, so Henry dumped him over the top rope.

It was down to Henry, Kane, Corbin, Bo Dallas, and Darren Young, who was hiding most of the match. Suddenly, D-Young and Kane dumped Henry out of the ring. Young got himself fired up, so Kane eliminated him. Corbin then eliminated Kane from behind to win the battle royal. Corbin fired up and posed with the Andre statue down at ringside.

WINNER: Corbin at 9:41. This is a weird show. (n/a)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 01:21 pm
After a pause, Lilian Garcia introduced The Rock. Big reception for Rock, who emerged on-stage, then pulled out a weapon or something. A t-shirt gun? It was a fire gun. JBL called it a flame-thrower. Rock flashed the flame a few times on the stage, then started walking down the stage. Rock told the crowd that he sees them and flamed the air again.

Suddenly, there was a giant “R-O-C-K” sign off-stage. Rock set the letters on-fire. Rock then walked through Cowboys cheerleaders lining the entrance ramp down to the ring. Rock entered the ring and posed for the crowd, sweating profusely. Rock’s music stopped and he did the routine milking the crowd before speaking.

“Finally, Rock has come back to Dallas.” They’re actually in Arlington. Rock said that means Rock has finally come back to WrestleMania. Rock said that entrance was on-fire. He shouted out to the cheerleaders, then “this crowwwwwwd.” Rock said he sees a lot of happy people out there. A lot of smiling faces. He said a lot of people are going to go home and make some WrestleMania babies. He’ll check back in nine months.

Rock said this is the moment he’s been talking about for months. He said this is his place – one mic, one ring, and the millions … and millions. Rock said he told everyone they were going to come to Dallas and make history. He said records are made to be broken. Rock said it is with great honor that he informs everyone that tonight they have officially broken the WrestleMania Attendance Record.

The screen flashed 101,763, topping the marketed 93k at WrestleMania 3. Rock’s music played, making it seem like this was the end of his appearance.

Suddenly, the Wyatt theme played. The stadium lit up with cell phones and the like as Rock stood his ground in the ring. WWE obviously booked the Wyatts for this segment for this visual. Bray Wyatt led Erick Rowan and Braun Strowman down to the ring as Cole recapped their roles behind Bray.

Bray stopped at the ringside area and introduced himself to Mr. Rock. Bray approached the ring apron with his henchmen. Bray said he chose Rock because he represents success and greatness. Bray then entered the ring and told Rock that he represents a lie. He told Rock that this is not his moment. He said this is definitely not the fans’s moment. Bray told Mr. Rock that this is his moment. “I am going to eviscerate you on the grandest stage of them all,” Bray said. “And I’m going to make them watch every second of it.”

Rock contemplated Bray’s words, then spoke. “So, let The Rock get this straight,” Rock said. You came out here to interrupt people making babies and there’s no formal greeting? Instead you come out here with your gimmick before going to Cracker Barrel? Rock said Bray comes out here acting like he’s been high for eight straight days. Braun and Erick tried to storm the ring, but Bray held them back. Rock told Rowan that his parents are clearly related. And Braun looks like he’s been breast-fed since he was 26.

Rock wanted to address Bray. He knows who he is. Rock said Bray has it all. “The ability, the charisma, the tats, the beard, and leadership,” Rock said. He told Bray he made 100,000 people hold their phones in the air. But, what do you do with that? You run some gibberish and now he’s knocking on a door he doesn’t want answered. Bray said he didn’t come here to knock on a door, but kick one down.

Bray said Rock has no idea who he’s fooling with. Rock said he has an idea. Rock removed his tanktop ready to fight. He said this is what they’re going to do in the Big D. They’re not going to have a WrestleMania fight, but a WrestleMania match. Rock said it could be Bray or these two monkeys, but someone is getting their *** kicked.

Rock removed his warm-up pants, revealing his signature Brahma Bull trunks. He then pulled out his elbow pads and prepared to wrestle. Rowan and Rock went face-to-face for about 30 seconds, then Rock told a ref to hit the bell.

8 — THE ROCK vs. ERICK ROWAN

Bell, charge, kick to the stomach, Rock Bottom, and three count.

WINNER: Rock at 0:06. Well, that was that.

The announcers hyped that as a WrestleMania match record. The Wyatts wanted more, though, and surrounded Rock in the ring. Suddenly, John Cena’s music played. Cena stormed out on-stage and bounced down the stage conducting the crowd in a “John Cena Suuucks” sing-song. Cena stormed the ring and stood tall with Rock as the Wyatts held their ground on the ring apron.

Cena and Rock then teed off on the Wyatts. Rock Bottom to Braun Strowman. Sit-out slam to Rowan to boos. Cena then dropped the Five Knuckle Shuffle on Rowan. Rowan popped up into an AA, then Bray Wyatt hit the ring and took a spinebuster from Rock. Rock looked deeply into the hard camera, then removed his elbow pad and tossed it into the crowd. People’s Elbow to Bray Wyatt.

Rock then took the mic and welcomed Cena back before signing off. His music played and he celebrated with Cena, who left the ring before Rock. Cena and Rock reunited on the stage to wrap up their segment.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 32 PPV Results: 4-3-16
Post by: Arcademan on April 04 2016, 02:09 pm
9 — WWE World Hvt. champion TRIPLE H (w/Stephanie McMahon) vs. ROMAN REIGNS — WWE World Hvt. Title match

Apparently this is not a No DQ match, per the local advertising.

Hunter emphatically tossed Reigns over the top rope to the floor early on, popping the crowd. Hunter held open the ropes for Reigns to re-enter the ring. “Roman Sucks” chant from the crowd. Reigns returned to the ring with a smirk and locked up with Hunter, who took control of the match. Reigns came back with a flying clothesline that left a lot of light. He tried to charge Hunter in the corner, but Hunter dumped him to the floor. Reigns responded with a two-foot dropkick to Hunter’s face.

Hunter then used Steph as a distraction to smash Reigns low. Hunter took over the match, setting a slow pace working over Reigns. Hunter then dragged Reigns to the outside and rammed his face/nose into the announce table, trying to re-injure him. Reigns fought back to boos. But, Hunter sent Reigns flying over the German announce table, wiping out one of the announcers.

Back in the ring, Hunter hung Reigns across the top rope and looked for an attack from the second rope, but Reigns intercepted with an uppercut for a nearfall. Reigns slowly walked around the ring to boos, then cocked his fist and went for a Superman Punch, but Hunter rolled out of the way to the floor. Reigns followed to the floor with a running clothesline off the ring steps.

But, Hunter reversed momentum and tossed Reigns over the German announce table again. Reigns sold taking a nap as Hunter kind of walked around the ringside area with Stephanie trying to talk him up. Suddenly, Reigns woke up from his nap and charged Hunter to spear him through a gimmicked barricade. Both men sold in the floor seating area.

They eventually made it back into the ring as the crowd became restless. Reigns sold having an injury of sorts. Stephanie taunted him about continuing the match. A “Nakamura” chant broke out as Reigns continued to sell. Hunter eventually just put Reigns in an armbar submission trying to create some excitement. Reigns faded, then sold agony locked in the submission. Reigns started to reverse to boos. They went with this submission teaser for a while, then Reigns powered Hunter into the air for a powerbomb. Two count at 20:00.

Hunter reapplied the submission, and Reigns finally broke free, then launched Hunter over the top rope. Reigns returned to the ring and speared Hunter. But, when Reigns covered Hunter, Stephanie pulled the ref out of the ring. Steph then just casually walked into the ring and yelled at the referee. Steph just kind of hung out in the ring as the crowd made up their own chants. Reigns then charged Hunter and speared Stephanie when Hunter moved. Steph sold being KO’ed in the corner. Hunter then dropped Reigns with a Pedigree, but Reigns kicked out.

The match resumed with the fans singing Bayley’s song. Reigns then hit Hunter with a Superman Punch. The crowd booed. Reigns stalked Hunter for the big spear, but Hunter intercepted with a running knee to the face. Hunter covered Reigns for a two count. The match must continue.

Hunter rolled toward the ring apron, where a now-slightly KO’ed Stephanie managed to slip a sledgehammer to Hunter. The ref reprimanded him, but Reigns hit Hunter with the Superman Punch. Another one in the corner. The crowd booed as Reigns bounced the ropes, avoided a sledgehammer shot, and hit a spear. Reigns covered Hunter for the win.

WINNER: Reigns at 27:11 to capture the WWE Title. That was unbelievably long, flashing back to the previous Mania main event in Texas when Hunter and Randy Orton bored the crowd out of Reliant Stadium. The egos of the McMahon Family were on full display tonight and this was the cherry on top thinking anyone wanted to sit through this long of a main event with a limited mid-card babyface challenger in the key challenger role. Reigns in this role was an embarrassment. He’s so limited and it’s so obvious that it’s about getting over a pet project that would be laughed out of this spot in any other era other than the Three-Hour Raw Mid-Carder Era. (*1/2)

Post-match: WWE tried to find fans in the crowd happy for the result. Lots of thumbs down on the camera shot. Reigns received the title belt and caught his breath. Hunter and Steph disappeared, then Reigns got a big pyro celebration with his music playing over the boos. WWE cut to an exterior shot of AT&T Stadium’s pyro display over the parking lot. Back in the stadium, Reigns posed in the ring with the title belt. Cole plugged Reigns and Charlotte on NBC’s “Today” show on Monday morning. Cole signed off with a final shot of Reigns posing in the ring and Hunter selling in the corner of the ring. The PPV mercifully ended at 10:48 p.m. local time, a six hour and 48 minute event.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 08:24 am
Results courtesy of ProWrestling.net (direct link to Powell's real-time coverage of the WM Kickoff Show) (http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/04/02/powells-wrestlemania-33-kickoff-show-live-review-neville-vs-austin-aries-wwe-cruiserweight-championship-andre-giant-memorial-battle-royal/)

1. Neville vs. Austin Aries for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship. Phillips noted that Neville hasn't lost a singles match since October. The ring was made up in typical cruiserweight style. Aries sent Neville to ringside. Aries charged for a move, but Neville caught him with a kick that drew gasps from the crowd. Neville followed up with a missile dropkick for a two count before they went to a commercial.

Powell's POV: I really wish they would come up with a way to remove the commercials from the network feed. Paid subscribers should be able to see the full match, especially a WrestleMania match, without any commercial interruptions. On a positive note, the building looks packed. I'm sure there are still open seats, but it's not the half empty stadium that last year's Kickoff Show matches played to.

Neville was still in control coming out of the break. Aries came back and performed his spinning elbow drop. A short time later, Aries performed a suicide dive. He threw Neville back inside the ring and covered him for a two count. Aries performed a missile dropkick off the top rope and got another two count.

Neville came back with a wicked German suplex that dropped Aries right on his head. It looked even uglier on the replay. Aries recovered. Neville went for another German, but Aries flipped over and went for a discus five-arm, but Neville kicked him and performed a German suplex into a bridge for a two count.

Aries connected with the discus five-arm that knocked Neville to ringside. Graves said he didn't know if it was awareness or luck that saved Neville. Aries went to ringside and rolled Neville back onto the apron. Neville caught Aries with a kick. Neville went up top. Aries cut him off and performed a huracanrana off the top rope. Aries hit a running forearm in the corner and followed up with a 450 splash for a great near fall. Aries applied the Last Chancery. Neville gouged the bad eye of Aries. Neville went up top and hit the Red Arrow for the win

Neville defeated Austin Aries in 15:40 to retain the WWE Cruiserweight Champion.

Powell's POV: That was one hell of an opening match. I bit on the 450 splash and the Last Chancery. I really like the decision to go with Neville. He's been phenomenal as the heel champion, and I'd like to see Aries eventually win the championship after a long chase. Here's hoping Aries is okay after that German suplex. He seemed find and simply sold his bad eye afterward. That was one ugly bump. On a side note, it's so cool to see Aries go from working local indies to working his first WrestleMania match. Support independent wrestling. You never know when you're going to see a guy who will go from your local armory to WrestleMania.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 08:43 am
2. Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.  Strowman immediately eliminated one of the Shining Stars. Kalisto and Simon Gotch were gone seconds later. The rapid fire eliminations continued. Strowman and Show squared off. Sami Zayn attacked Strowman. The wrestlers all fought on opposite sides. Strowman broke through his side and dumped Big Show over the top rope to eliminate him. A group of wrestlers eliminated Strowman. It's anybody's game, one of the broadcast team members said.

Cole spoke about Killian Dain and noted that he's from the Sanity promotion. Luke Harper stood out as an unadvertised participant. R-Truth was eliminated. Ziggler eliminated Rhyno. Aiden English was eliminated. Cole noted that a number of people were eliminated during the commercial break, so it looks like they stuck with the match on the network feed, but USA Network viewers didn't see the eliminations.

American Alpha eliminated a couple of guys, but they were both eliminated a short time later. Tian Bing eliminated Tyler Breeze and Fandango. The broadcast team put him over. He was eliminated moments later by a Dolph Ziggler superkick. Mojo Rawley eliminated Bo Dallas. Apollo Crews and Ziggler were eliminated. Titus O'Neil eliminated Luke Harper with a kick.

The final five was Zayn, O'Neil, Jinder Mahal, Dain, and Mojo. Zayn eliminated Titus. Dain eliminated Zayn to boos. Rawley and Mojo traded blows. Mojo performed a running shoulder block that knocked Dain down. Jinder threw Rawley through the ropes and then worked him over at ringside in front of Gronk, so you had to know where this was going.

Jinder got in the face of Gronk. He took Gronk's cup, drank from it, and then threw water on him. Jinder returned to the ring. Gronk climbed over the barricade. Security ran over and stopped him, then they backed off. Gronk removed his Mojo t-shirt and entered the ring. Gronk got down on all fours and performed a running shoulder block on Jinder to a nice pop. Gronk left and then Mojo eliminated Dain, and eventually Jinder to win the match. Gronk entered the ring and celebrated with Mojo by slapping his chest repeatedly

Mojo Rawley won the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal in 14:15

Powell's POV: For our non-NFL fans, Gronkowski is a star player for the New England Patriots. WWE will get lots of love from the sports networks for this one. Mojo winning won't excite the masses, but getting Gronk in the ring at WrestleMania is a pretty big deal. My apologies for not getting all the eliminations, but that was chaos.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 10:46 am
3. Dean Ambrose vs. Baron Corbin for the Intercontinental Championship. Corbin attacked Ambrose to start. Ambrose came right back with a suicide dive and worked over Corbin at ringside briefly. The sound cut out briefly as Corbin came back with kicks in the corner. A short time later, Corbin took Ambrose to ringside and ran him into the barricade. Back inside the ring, Ambrose caught a charging Corbin with an elbow, then side stepped another charge, causing Corbin to go through the ropes in the corner.

Ambrose went up top for his flying elbow. Corbin caught him with a Codebreaker type of move on the way down. They went to ringside a short time later. Corbin charged, Ambrose moved, and Corbin crashed into the ring steps. Ambrose went up top and performed his flying elbow onto Corbin at ringside. Saxton played up Ambrose having injured ribs and questioned how much damage he did to himself.

Back inside the ring, Ambrose performed a running clothesline, but then he ran into an elbow from Corbin. Ambrose shook it off and performed a neckbreaker for a two count. At 8:10, Ambrose went for his teetering clothesline, but Corbin blasted him with a kick. Corbin followed up with a spinning slam for a two count. Ambrose came back with his rebound Lariat.

Corbin knocked Ambrose down and yelled at him that he was leaving with the Intercontinental Championship. Corbin went for End of Days, but Ambrose avoided it and hit Dirty Deeds for the win

Dean Ambrose beat Baron Corbin in 10:55 to retain the Intercontinental Championship.

Powell's POV: A fairly flat match. The live crowd didn't seem to really connect with the match and the wrestlers didn't really give them much to get excited about. I was looking forward to this match and found it underwhelming. The match being on the pre-show is surprising. At the same time, they played to a full stadium and their match aired on USA Network, so they can't be too disappointed that it wasn't on the main card. Going into the match, I felt there was a chance that Ambrose would win at Mania only to have Corbin beat him on Smackdown. We'll see if that happens on Tuesday.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 10:53 am
Remaining results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's real-time report). (http://"http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/04/02/kellers-wrestlemania-33-main-card-report-42-reigns-vs-undertaker-lesnar-vs-goldberg-owens-vs-jericho-orton-vs-wyatt-styles-vs-shane/")

(1) SHANE MCMAHON vs. A.J. STYLES

Shane came out first. Then Styles. The bell rang. Shane was wearing a white jersey with Shane-O-Mac on the front and dollar signs on the back. Styles outwrestled Shane a little with a lockup and headlock and then a shove into the ropes. He said he's going to embarrass him. He was cocky. A Let's Go A.J.! chant started. Styles caught Shane with a snap mare and he showboated. The crowd cheered. Shane soaked it up while sitting in the corner. Otunga said Styles has to be sure his confidence doesn't turn to cockiness because that could be bad for him. JBL asked how Styles can't be cocky given that he's among the best of his generation. Shane arm dragged Styles a couple times and then did some amateur wrestling and tried to roll up Styles. Styles rolled to the floor and looked back at the ring in shock.

Styles threw the first punch to Shane's face. The announcers talked about Shane training in striking. Styles invited Shane to give it his best. Shane punched away at him and then thtumaplatrew a hard elbow in the corner. Otunga said you don't want to do stand-up with Shane. Styles threw Shane out of the ring, then slide-kicked him hard into the announce table. Shane backflipped over the table and into the chair. Back in the ring, Styles took over on Shane with a methodical beating. JBL talked about how Shane doesn't know fear or hesitation. Shane knocked Styles off balance when he was on the top rope. Shane danced around and threw more punches. He was looking sweaty and winded.

Styles flipped Shane back-first over his knee. Styles countered an attempted Shane comeback into a Calf Crusher. Shane countered into a sleeper. He maneuvered into an armbar. Then an omaplata. JBL wondered how Styles would react if he had to tapout to Shane after bragging he's put on a wrestling clinic. Styles went for a 450 springboard splash, but Shane countered into a triangle. Otunga said Styles might have to tap. Styles lifted Shane and dropped him with a one-armed Styles Clash for a near fall. they exchanged punches mid-ring a minute later. Shane got the better of Styles. He threw some knees in the corner. Styles tried to kick Shane, but Shane ducked and the ref went down. Styles landed a Pel kick. As a medic checked on the ref, Styles grabbed two trash cans from under the ring. JBL said Styles is fighting for his survival since taking Shane to a wrestling clinic wasn? enough. Styles put a trash can up against Shane in one corner, then climbed to the top rope in another corner and went for Shane's signature spot, but Shane leaped up and blocked Styles with a trash can. Styles went down. Shane threw the can out of the ring, but then saw the second one.

Shane then put the trash up against Styles and landed his top rope dropkick into the can. He made the cover. The ref made the count, but Styles kicked out. Shane then went to ringside and cleared an announce table. Shane set Styles on the table on his back. Shane leaped off the top rope and dove at Styles, but Styles moved and Shane crashed onto the table. The table collapsed. Medics checked on him. He clutched his ribs. Styles went after Shane. He rolled him to the ring and threw him into it. Shane went fora Phenomenal Forearm, but Shane caught him mid-air and DDT'd him. Shane then climbed to the top rope. He went for a shooting star press. Styles moved. Another A.J. Styles chant. Styles hit his Phenomenal Forearm for the win. JBL said Styles had to earn that win every step of the way.

WINNER: Styles at 20:35.

(Keller's Analysis: That was on the higher end of any reasonable expectations. They told a good story, if you buy Shane as a wrestler who can hold his own against Styles for 20 minutes. If you can't, then it was groan-inducting seeing Shane outwrestle Styles and out-strike him at various time. It was smart to do that early, since it did feel like a novelty match, and grumpy tired crowd might have been less responsive and even unforgiving of certain aspects, especially if anything went wrong or looked especially sloppy. The crowd definitely enjoyed it and didn't reject the premise. Although it cheated Styles out of a true showcase match for then ages, he'll get historic credit for carrying Shane to a match that largely got by with a story told in the ring. I was truly happy that other than the shooting star press attempt, Shane didn't leap off of anything other than the top rope.)

(2) CHRIS JERICHO vs. KEVIN OWENS  U.S. Title match

Jericho took it to Owens early. They fought at a steady pace for several minutes before taking it to the floor. Jericho made a comeback against Owens. Back in the ring, Owens blocked a Code Breaker and landed a package sitout slam on Jericho for a two count. Cole acknowledged a red contusion on Owens forehead. Jericho pounded away at Owens on the top rope, then landed a huracanrana. Owens avoided a springboard Lionsault, then kicked Jericho in the face and scored a near fall. Owens went for a frog splash, but Jericho lifted his knees. Owens came back quickly and landed a top rope swanton right onto Jericho's lifted knees. Owens went for a Pop-Up Powerbomb, but Jericho avoided it and then instantly landed the springboard Lionsault for a two count. A Y2J chant started.

A minute later Owens put Jericho in the Walls of Jericho mid-ring. Cole asked how embarrassing it'd be if Jericho had to tapout. Graves said, I'd love it! Owens hit the cannonball in the corner. Jericho caught him, though, and twisted him into a Walls of Jericho. Owens reached the bottom rope. Owens came back with a Pop-up Powerbomb for a near fall. The crowd popped. They were slow to get up. When Owens went for a Pop-up, he landed the Code Breaker. Owens placed his index finger on the bottom rope to force a break. A This is awesome! chant started. Owens rolled to the floor. Jericho went after him. Owens powerbombed Jericho spine-first into the ring apron. He went for the cover and got the three count.

WINNER: Owens to capture the U.S. Title. (***)

(Keller's Analysis: For this spot on the card, this worked really well. The crowd was into the match start to finish. I liked that they didn't overdo it with near falls at the end, and sold the idea that a powerbomb on the edge of the ring apron was enough. This was a disciplined, well-executed, smart match that felt like two people fighting over a grudge, not just putting on a show.)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 10:59 am
(3) BAYLEY vs. CHARLOTTE vs. NIA JAX vs. SASHA BANKS WWE Raw Women's Title match Elimination Rules

 Bayley came out first followed by Sasha, Jax, and Charlotte. Jax caught Charlotte diving at her and shoved her into the corner. All the women went after Jax early, but she fended them off rather easily. Saxton said this is the story of her career complete total domination. Jax sit splashed Bayley in the corner. Charlotte distracted Jax, which gave Bayley an opening to roll to the floor where Banks had been for a while already. Jax then knocked Charlotte off the ring apron onto Bayley and Banks at ringside. All three women returned to the ring, and Jax told them to bring it on. They did, and they triple powerbombed her off the top rope and piled on top of her to pin her. She was eliminated, so it was down to Charlotte, Banks, and Bayley.

 Charlotte offered a high-five, but Bayley and Sasha wouldn't. Charlotte bailed out to the floor and told them to fight instead. They decided to, but quickly Charlotte yanked Bayley to ringside by her foot. Banks then flip dove over the top rope, landing by mistake on Bayley. Graves said it was intentional and told Graves one day he'll figure it out. Charlotte then hit both with a corkscrew moonsault. They replayed it in sl0-mo. Graves said it was a work out of art and should be in a museum. Charlotte went for Natural Selection, but Sasha countered into a Bank Statement. Charlotte fought free and gave Sasha a back-breaker for a two count. Sasha took over with running knees in the corner. Then she dove with the knees onto Charlotte off the top rope and scored a two count. She applied a Bank Statement. Charlotte struggled to escape by standing and lifting Sasha. Sasha countered into a roll-up, but Charlotte pushed out of it and shoved Sasha into a partially exposed turnbuckle for the three count.

 It came down to Bayley vs. Charlotte. Bayley avoided a moonsault, then scored a two count on Charlotte. Bayley leaped off the top rope, but Charlotte caught her and slammed her into the mat. Then she applied a figure-four and shifted into the signature Figure-Eight. Bayley grabbed the bottom rope to force a break. Charlotte hung Bayley upside down in the corner, then worked on her left knee with stomps. Bayley back body dropped Charlotte off the top rope, but was still stuck up there hanging upside down afterward. Bayley eventually shifted out of that position and leaped on Charlotte with a top rope elbow for a three count. She sold her knee afterward. She clutched the title belt on the mat as her music played. She stood up crying and held the belt high in the air. Charlotte caught her breath at ringside.

 WINNER: Bayley at 12:45.

(Keller's Analysis: Good match. I liked how they protected Jax by having her lose only because three others teamed against her. Then they had some good action, although it was just jam packed into 12 minutes, so not enough time to really tell a great story. But overall, definitely acceptable.)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 11:30 am
(4) KARL ANDERSON & LUKE GALLOWS vs. SHEAMUS & CESARO vs. ENZO AMORE & BIG CASS ? WWE Raw World Tag Team Championship match

 After the three scheduled teams were announced and in the ring, New Day came out and said a fourth team has been added. The announcer assumed it?d be New Day. But instead, the Hardys music played. They came out to the biggest pop of the night so far. Cole said it?d been almost 7 years since the Hardys have teamed together in WWE. Graves said everyone in the Citrus Bowl is in shock. The bell rang and the four-way brawl was on. They cleared the ring of all but Anderson and took it to him. The crowd chanted ?This is awesome!? Jeff hit Whisper in the Wind on Sheamus and Cesaro. ?Delete! Delete!? rang out. Then ?Welcome back!? Matt shoved everyone who tried to enter the ring with a ladder. Gallows tipped a ladder over so Jeff fell onto the top rope. Then Gallows and Anderson rammed Matt with a ladder. Cole said the Dudleys, Hardys, and Anderson & Gallows are the only three tag teams in history to win the WWE and IWGP tag team championships.

 Cesaro stepped off of the ladder onto Gallows? shoulders and landed feet-first on Anderson?s chest. Cass went to work with some big boots and then played to the crowd to no reaction. They brawled at ringside. Sheamus then went at it with Gallows on the ring apron. Cesaro used the swing on Anderson as Sheamus pounded Gallows? chest over and over to the pace of Cesaro?s revolutions. Cesaro catapulted Anderson into Sheamus, who powers lamed him. Cesaro then gave Cesaro a 619 on the ring apron. Cole said the tag team titles haven?t changed hands since WM17 when Edge & Christian beat The Dudleys and the Hardy Boyz in a TLC match.

 After several minutes out of the picture, the hardys got back into the mix. Jeff went for a dive off the middle rope onto a crowd at ringside, but Sheamus gave him a Brogue Kick. He landed on a crowd at ringside. A ?Brother Nero? chant broke out. Sheamus and Gallows climbed a ladder and each grabbed at the red belts hanging above the ring. Enzo tipped the ladder over, although it took some real effort. When Enzo climbed the ladder, Cesaro and Gallows made sure that didn?t happen. Sheamus and Gallows tumbled to the floor. Enzo was left on the ladder and reached up for the belts. Anderson raced up to stop Enzo. He knocked him down. Cesaro and Sheamus went for a Crucifix on Anderson, but Gallows intervened. Matt gave a Twist of Fate to Gallows. Anderson threw him out of the ring, then climbed a ladder. Sheamus and Cesaro were KO?d on ladders bridged at ringside. Hardy gave Anderson a Twist of Fate off the ladder. Jeff then climbed to the top of the giant ladder at ringside. He leaped at Cesaro and Sheamus. The ladder broke under Cesaro. Matt then climbed the ladder and grabbed the belts to win. The crowd erupted as Cole declared they are seven-time champions. ?That has to be one of the greatest WrestleMania Moments ever,? said Cole. ?The Brother Hardys are back!?

 WINNERS: Matt & Jeff Hardy to capture the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships. (***)

 (Keller?s Analysis: A lot of fans who knew to chant ?Delete!? were also aware that they might be arriving today or later this week. The Hardys threw some red herrings out there to try to throw people off. The way it was done was a clever swerve in that it seemed New Day, without a match and only hosting duties, teased they had been added. So the Hardys music was, to many, a double-surprise. Well done. The Hardys did their thing and looked the part, not just a nostalgia act. The Hardys didn?t take over the entire match, and all the teams had their moments. Good match, and Cole added a lot to the moment by seeming genuinely excited himself. The Hardys have a lot of ways to make money for WWE the next couple of years if they can work together that long. It could be a fun journey. If you?re a Smackdown fan, pin your hopes on Shinsuke Nakamura, I suppose.)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 12:07 pm
(5) JOHN CENA & NIKKI BELLA vs. THE MIZ & MARYSE

 Miz and Maryse came out first. They had other announce teams from around the globe introduce themselves on camera. Then Nikki and Cena came out separately. Cena sprinted to catch up to Nikki. Cena ran full speed and slid into the ring. Roker was, as expected, awful at ring announcing and also totally unselfaware of the fact. Nikki and Maryse began, but Maryse tagged out before a lock-up. Lawler said he got a kick out of the Total Bellas spoofs. Lawler said he's surprised Miz and Maryse's marriage has lasted this long because it not typical for Hollywood marriages. Lawler said people didn't expect it to last long because at their wedding they were throwing Minute Rice. Miz stomped away at Cena early and then played to the crowd. Maryse slapped Cena after Miz broke a sleeper against the ropes. Miz taunted Nikki.

 Miz got a sustained beatdown on Cena. Lawler said he doesn't believe things are great between Miz and Maryse. He said it's a big front and a big show. He said he heard the other morning Miz asked for breakfast in bed and Maryse told him to go sleep in the kitchen. JBL said Miz is the modern day Gregory Peck. Lawler said the fifties want his reference back. Miz gave Cena a DDT for a near fall. Miz threw a barrage of round kicks at Cena's chest as the crowd chanted Yes! with each kick. JBL said Miz does that better than Bryan did. When Miz taunted Nikki with a You can't see me hand save, Nikki slapped Miz. Cena then knocked Miz to the floor. Cena crawled over to Nikki and gave her a hot-tag. Nikki tackled Maryse. Maryse bailed out to the ringside to regroup with Miz. Nikki dove through the ropes, but hit Miz instead of Maryse. Nikki KO'ed Maryse with a forearm. Cena then entered and gave Cena a side slam. They played to the crowd before doing the You Can't See Me routine. Then they dropped five knuckle shuffles. They scored stereo pins with a Rack Attack and Attitude Adjustment combo.

 WINNERS: Cena & Bella.

 (Keller's Analysis: The match itself was a virtual night off for Cena, and even more so for Nikki. It was what it needed to be, though, because it was just filler for what was coming next.)

 -Cena grabbed the mic afterward and looked over at Nikki. He said, This is what you wanted over a year ago. You broke your neck and you did everything you could to come back because you wanted a WrestleMania Moment. He said how proud he is of her. He said after she went into surgery, he said there'd be a time she'd be a little loopy and she'd given him an honest answer and she wouldn't remember what she talked about. He said not a week went by when she didn't ask what happened and he promised to eventually tell her when the time was right. He said right as they were wheeling her into the E.R., she was glassy eyed. He leaned in and asked if she could hear him. She said yes. He said, Well, I have only have one question. He said, Do you know one day I'm going to marry you. And she said yes. I just need you to say yes one more time. He reached into his pocket and got on his knees and showed her the ring. His voice quivered as he said he has been waitiing so long to ask her this. Will you marry me? She nodded and said yes and hugged him. The crowd was mic'd odd during this as only some localized screeches from a girl could be heart. She put on the ring and hugged John. They exchanged some private off-mic words. Then they kissed. They went to ringside and hugged some family members.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 12:49 pm
(6) TRIPLE H vs. SETH ROLLINS

 Triple H's ring entrance this year was one of the anticipated moments of the show. He rode to the ring with Stephanie McMahon behind him on a motorcycle led by a parade of motorcycles with sirens in front of him. Clever way to avoid walking to the ring like a real man (or running like Cena did). Stephanie looked like Lita. Cole said this is Triple H's 21st match at a WrestleMania, second only to Undertaker. He said his debut was in 1996 and he'd missed just one with a torn quad at WM23. Next out came Seth. he carried a torch to the ring. I appreciate the product placement. Seth took it to Hunter at the start, overwhelming him with punches. Seth kicked Triple H into a ringpost at ringside a minute in. Cole said it's non-sanctions and pretty much anything goes. Hunter dragon screw leg whipped Seth from his good knee. Then they tumbled over the barricade to fight in the WWE Universe in Orlando. Now we know where the WWE Universe is located, apparently. Boy does that always sound stupid. Graves said Seth has been battling a 103 degree temperature the last three days. He clew at Triple H with a springboard clothesline off the ringside barrier. He eyed Stephanie, who was at ringside for Hunter. Hunter grabbed Seth's leg mid-air as Seth flew at him off the top rope. Seth hit Hunter with an enzuigiri. Hunter rolled to the floor. Seth did a running dive and tackled Hunter. He did it again. Not much crowd reaction. They're at the five hour mark since the Kickoff Show began. Half of them have been there that long. It's 75 degrees and not sunny.

 Seth set up a Pedigree on an announce table. Hunter countered with a DDT. Triple H hit Seth with a chair on his bad knee. Hunter dropped a knee on the back of Seth's knee, then threw him back into the ring. Hunter settled into a leglock on the mat. Seth went for a sunset flip off the top rope. Hunter held on. Seth landed hard and clutched his knee. Graves said that's the same move that first injured his knee in Europe that caused him to miss WrestleMania 32. Seth tried to powerbomb Hunter off the top rope, but his legs gave out. Hunter stood over him and then set up a Pedigree. Seth blocked it and gave Hunter a buckle bomb. He went down clutching his knee. Seth got up and whipped Hunter into the corner and Hunter spilled over to the floor. Seth then dove off the top rope. Seth scored a two count after a Falcon's Arrow.

 Hunter made a comeback and methodically beat down Seth and worked over his knee. He put Seth in a figure-four at ringside. When Seth escaped, Hunter produced a sledge hammer. When he entered the ring, Seth punched Hunter until he dropped it. Hunter gave Seth a knee to the face and a clothesline. Seth did a 360 bump. Stephanie yelled to Hunter, Twist his knee off. A Let's go Rollins! chant started. Hunter grabbed the sledgehammer. Seth hit Hunter with an enzuigiri. Seth then picked up the sledgehammer. Steph yanked it away. Hunter then surprised Seth a Pedigree for a believable near fall. Hunter set up a top rope Pedigree, but Seth backdropped out of it. He then climbed to the top rope and hit a Phoenix Splash for a near fall. Cole said that's something you'd see on 205 Live. Saxton put over how gutsy Seth has been. Hunter went for another Pedigree, but Rollins escaped and set up a Pedigree. Hunter backdropped out of it. Seth landed hard and sold knee pain again. Hunter then set up a Pedigree, but Rollins countered with is own attempt. Hunter gave Seth a forearm to the knee. Steph stood on the ring apron and held Seth by his throat. Seth moved and Hunter almost hit Steph. Seth then shoved Hunter into Steph, who went crashing off the ring through a table below. Seth then gave Hunter a Pedigree for the win. Cole called him a King Slayer! Graves said Hunter's kingdom is burning and Seth holds the torch.

 WINNER: Seth Rollins at 25:50. (***1/2)

 (Keller's Analysis: Okay, if that was there main event of a three hour PPV, that'd be a fitting main event. For an event where half the fans have been there for five hours already, and just about everyone for over four, with a live music performance and four more matches to do, that was excessive. Just get to the point faster given the situation, especially since poor Seth was suffering from a 103 degree fever the last three days. In any case, there was a lot good in that battle. The finishing sequence is intriguing. Does plant a seed of a storyline divide with Steph and Hunter since her attempt to interfere cost him the match? Or was that just an out for Hunter to lose as he showed concern for his wife's well-being? They told the story of working over Seth's knee. It got repetitive that Seth would do a big move, sell his knee in pain, do a big move, sell his knee in pain. Yet he kept getting up to do another big move. The crowd was into at the end, but live reports indicate they were dead for a lot of the body of the match. Cut this down by ten minutes and it's a better match and better for the show.)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 01:22 pm
(7) BRAY WYATT vs. RANDY ORTON WWE Championship match

 Bray came out first. Then Orton. The walk to the ring was so long, they seemed to play Orton's song on a loop three times. The bell rang to start this 32 minutes into the fourth hour of the show, not counting the two hour Kickoff Show. So over five-and-a-half hours deep since the Kickoff Show started. Randy went for an early RKO out of nowhere. Bray leaped to ringside. Orton went right after him. They exchanged strikes at ringside. Orton threw Bray into the ring. Bray caught him with a forearm and then a running headbutt to the chest. Bray bent over backwards. The camera showed the action from overhead. They projected maggots on the ring surface. The crowd got all grossed out and let out a collective Ewwww! JBL said he's never seen anything like that in his life. Otunga said Bray's been different since Orton burned down ?he place that houses Sister Abigail's ashes. They won't say compound or shed or anything. It's just that place. Bray methodically beat up Orton. He bent over backwards again and the ring filled with earthworms crawling through dirt. Orton acted creeped out again. Bray pounded on the back of Orton's head with elbows, then yelled out, I am a god! He hit a senton for a two count.

 JBL said Orton was as fired up on his way to the ring as he has ever seen him, but the images of the worms and the psychological warfare has taken him out of it completely. JBL said the place is in shock, noting the silence in the stadium. Orton rolled out of the ring and took a breather. Bray rolled out the other side and jogged at him with a running clothesline. Orton gave him an RKO out of nowhere at ringside. Back in the ring and waited for Bray to stand, and he went for the running punt. Bray avoided it and went for Sister Abigail. Orton blocked it and landed a DDT off the second rope. Orton pounded the mat and then charged at Bray, but Bray gave him Sister Abigail. Orton kicked out. Just silence afterward. Now we had a ring full of some sort of bugs. Randy didn't seem to notice, which made it even sillier. Bray pounded on Orton methodically with forearms, but Orton hit an RKO out of nowhere for the pin. They cut to a shocked fan. Or else he's frozen in fear from those creepy bugs.

 WINNER: Orton to capture the WWE Championship at 10:30. (**1/2)

 (Keller's Analysis: I don't know what to say. The match was what I expected, but worms and bugs were an added bonus? It works in the sense that this whole feud has been about nonsense spookiness, so why get serious now? When someone at WWE HQ said, Wouldn't it be neat if... that person should have been shot down immediately and moved to new division.)

 (8) GOLDBERG vs. BROCK LESNAR (w/Paul Heyman) WWE Universal Title match

 Lesnar ran the ropes after he arrived in the ring and his music stopped. Then Goldberg's music played. The crowd seemed fatigued. A weak Goldberg chant fizzled quickly. Someone knocked on his door, and Goldberg came out of his locker room. He walked too the ring with the belt around his waist. He looks the part. More gray in the beard, but he looks badass. He walked the whole way to the ring. They should have had the champ come out first in this match, of all matches, so Goldberg could rest up a bit. Heyman insisted on introducing Brock, yanking the mic from JoJo. When Jo Jo got to Goldberg, the crowd booed with whatever little energy they had left. Lesnar sidestepped a spear and gave Goldberg a German Suplex. And two more. Goldberg popped up and speared Lesnar into the bottom rope. Lesnar staggered to his feet and ate another spear. Lesnar rolled out of the ring. Goldberg snuck around the ring and went for a third spear. He speared Lesnar into the time keeper's area through the barricade. Both were slow to get up. Goldberg was selling convincingly. Back in the ring, Goldberg signaled for a Jackhammer. Lesnar countered into an F5 attempt. Goldberg escaped and hit a spear again. Lesnar struggled to stand. Goldberg seemed to be handling the cardio well so far. He set up a Jackhammer and landed it. Lesnar kicked out. Goldberg looked down at him in shock. Heyman pounded the mat as the crowd woke up and cheered. Goldberg waited for Lesnar to stand and set up a spear. He charged, but Lesnar leapfrogged him. Goldberg's head might have caught Lesnar's knee. Lesnar then took Goldberg back to Suplex City. Sexaton said he's trying to make Goldberg a permanent member. After five more, Lesnar staggered to his feet and delivered a ninth overall. The crowd chanted for Tye Dillinger. Lesnar delivered. Then he gave Goldberg an F5. Cole said Lesnar has finally exorcised his demons.

 WINNER: Lesnar to capture the WWE Universal Championship. (**)

 (Keller's Analysis: That was a best case scenario for this match. Goldberg pulled off the moves well. Neither was asked to do anything they weren't able to do or that the fans weren't in seeing. It delivered Suplex City and some teases of finishers, a bit spot at ringside, and then more of the same in the ring leading to the logical finish. Had Goldberg not been so vocal about regrouping and reassessing after WM, the outcome might have been a bigger mystery.)
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 01:49 pm
(9) ALEXA BLISS vs. NAOMI vs. MICKEI JAMES vs. BECKY LYNCH vs. NATALYA vs. CARMELLA (w/James Ellsworth) WWE Smackdown Women's Title match

 Alexa came out first. Naomi made a grand entrance with the whole arena staging going neon. After some early chaos, it came down to Bliss vs. Carmella. Alexa yelled a lot. Natalya re-entered and charged at her. Bliss gave Natalya a DDT and made the cover. Carmella broke it up. When Ellsworth got involved, Becky suplexed him out of the ring. Natalya went at Lynch. Naomi kicked Becky in the chest and setoff ora sunset flip, which turned into a powerbomb and a two count. Natalya went for a sharpshooter on Naomi, but Carmella interfered. Natalya went for a double sharpshooter on both Naomi and Carmella. Mickie scored a near fall on Becky a minute later, Carmella broke it up. Naomi then hit the Rear View on Bliss, then landed a dive onto a crowd at ringside. Naomi threw Bliss into the ring, then springboarded at her. Bliss just nailed her with a strike to the face out of mid-air. Naomi applied a submission hold mid-ring and Bliss tapped out.

 WINNER: Naomi to capture the WWE Smackdown Women's Championship.

 -Jim Ross walked to the ring to his music to announce this match as a special guest announcer. He hugged Cole and shook JBL's hand. JBL said, It's so good to see you. Cole said it's an absolute treat. He said it's been a rough couple of weeks for him, but he wants him to do what he does best. Let's raise some hell and have some fun, said Ross.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 33 PPV Results: 4-2-17
Post by: Arcademan on April 03 2017, 02:13 pm
10) UNDERTAKER vs. ROMAN REIGNS

Ross noted that it was a No Holds Barred match and would not be for the faint of heart. Taker jumped out to the quick start and tossed Reigns to ringside. You're in my yard, Taker said while looking down at Reigns. Roman walked around the ring and climbed on the apron. Taker met him, and Reigns clotheslined him over the top rope. Reigns threw punches at Taker, then clotheslined him over the top rope, but Taker landed on his feet.

 Taker pulled Reigns to ringside and ran Reigns into the ring steps. A Roman sucks chant started and faded quickly. Cole noted that this was the first ever one-on-one match between the two. He said their only in-ring confrontation occurred when Reigns eliminated Taker from the Royal Rumble match. They fought at ringside again. Taker headbutted Reigns and picked him up on his shoulder, but Reigns slipped off and shoved Taker into the ring post and then delivered a Drive By, which Ross called a toxic kick.

 Back inside the ring, Taker and Reigns traded punches. JBL said Reigns appeared to be relishing the moment. Taker no-sold a Reigns kick and then punched him. Taker connected with a running clothesline in the corner and then followed up with Snake Eyes, a big boot, and a leg drop for a two count. Taker signaled for the chokeslam, but Reigns rolled to ringside.

 Taker followed. Reigns went for another Drive By, but Taker caught him with a punch. Taker cleared off the Ross broadcast table and JBL jokingly welcomed Ross back. A short time later, Taker chokeslammed Reigns onto the German broadcast table, but it didn't break.

 Taker tore apart the Spanish broadcast table. Taker stood on the table as Reigns crawled onto the Ross table. Taker made the throat slashing gesture only to have Reigns spear him through the table. Cool spot. Ross noted that the referee has the authority to stop the match if Taker can? defend himself. Reigns entered the ring and the fans booed. Taker suddenly sat up in his typical style at ringside. When Taker tried to enter the ring, Reigns greeted him with knees and kicks.

 Reigns threw clotheslines at Taker in the corner. Reigns stood over Taker on the ropes and punched him, then told him that it's his yard. Taker responded with a Last Ride for a two count. Taker went to ringside and grabbed a chair. He slid it inside the ring and Reigns grabbed it, but Taker blasted him with a kick to the head. Taker slammed the chair over the back of Reigns. Roman rolled to ringside. The fans booed. The broadcast team said it was sound strategy.

 Back inside the ring, Reigns hit Taker with two Superman punches. He went for a third, but Taker grabbed him by the throat and chokeslammed him onto a chair for a two count. JBL said it seemed like it was just a matter of time before Taker put Reigns away. Taker scooped up Reigns and put him down with a Tombstone piledriver. Taker covered Reigns with his arms over his chest and stuck his tongue out. Reigns kicked out. Taker sold it with a look of surprise.

 Taker went for another Tombstone at 14:50. They tried to do the reversal spot and failed twice (Adam Cole feels a lot better right now as he had the same issue in his match with Marty Scurll last night). Reigns punched Taker and got a two count. Reigns backed into the corner, let out the war cry, and spared Taker at 16:00. Taker reached up and applied the Hell's Gate submission hold. Reigns reached the rope with his foot while Ross pointed out that the submission had to happen in the ring.

 Reigns ended up taking the chair and worked over Taker with it. Taker used the ropes to pull himself up as the fans chanted his name. Reigns waited in the corner and speared Taker once he was on his feet and covered him for a good near fall that the fans reacted to. Cole said Reigns is beginning to understand why Taker is the phenom. Ross said that's the heart of Taker, JBL said it's the soul.

 Taker pulled himself up again. Reigns jawed at him from the corner and looked upset. Roman Reigns is going to have to put the phenom down, JBL said. Reigns let out a war cry and spared Taker again for another two count. The fans roared and chanted Yes! when Taker kicked out at 20:20. A loud Undertaker chant followed while Reigns showed frustration over not being able to put Taker away.

 Reigns went to the corner again and this time hit Taker with a Superman Punch. Reigns looked down at Taker and shook his head. Taker sat up, but then fell over. He tried to sit up, but his body would not allow it, Ross said. JBL questioned whether Taker's body was quitting on him, then said he wasn't counting him out.

 Reigns continued to talk at Taker and swatted his hand away when he tried to use him to stand up. Taker said something to Reigns about not having the balls. Reigns threw punches at Taker, then ran the ropes repeatedly, speared Taker, and pinned him clean.

 Roman Reigns pinned Undertaker in 23:00.

 Reigns left the ring without a major celebration. He stopped halfway up the stage and looked back at the ring, then raised his hands and pyro shot off on the stage and all around the stadium. The broadcast team said Reigns is the big dog and it is his yard.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 34 PPV Results: 4-8-18
Post by: Arcademan on April 09 2018, 11:20 am
Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's real-time report). (https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/04/08/kellers-wwe-wrestlemania-34-report-lesnar-vs-reigns-styles-vs-nakamura-charlotte-vs-asuka-rouseys-debut-bryans-return-battle-royals-more/)

KICKOFF SHOW

(A)  ANDRE THE GIANT MEMORIAL BATTLE ROYAL


It came down to Mojo Rawley and Baron Corbin arrogantly double-teaming Matt when the lights went out. When they came back on, Bray appeared in the ring and helped Matt win. Matt and Bray hugged. During the match, they showed John Cena sitting in the front row with a beer reacting like a fan.

WINNER: Matt Hardy.

(B) CEDRIC ALEXANDER vs. MUSTAFA ALI ? Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Final

Drake Maverick was shown at ringside. When the bell rang, Nigel said, ?Drink it in, boys, this is a moment you will never forget.? They squared off, smiled, acknowledged it?s WrestleMania and they were ready to put on a great effort. Nice smooth athleticism beginning. They cut to an early break. After Cedric knocked Ali off the top rope, they went to split screen and showed an ad for the Ronda Rousey match later.

Back in the ring, Ali landed his 054 for a near fall, but Cedric put his foot on the bottom rope. Ali reacted with disbelief, then stomped away at Cedric. Cedric landed two spinning elbows. Ali stood. Cedric told him to stop and said it?s enough, but hit a third back elbow. Then he hit the Lumbar Check for the clean win. Cedric moved in and cradle?s

WINNER: Cedric to capture the Cruiserweight Title.

WOMEN?S BATTLE ROYAL

Paige and Beth Phoenix did guest commentary with Michael Cole and Corey Graves. The women surrounded and eliminated Carmella early and eliminated her first. It came down to Sasha and Bayley. Sasha got that look in her eyes that said their friendship was more important than anything they?ve disagreed about. She moved in with a smile. Bayley promptly threw her over the top rope and eliminated her. She celebrated like she won, but instead Naomi re-entered the ring ? having not been officially eliminated earlier ? and gave a hip attack to Bayley and then tossed her out. Naomi celebrated with her Cervix Trophy.

WINNER: Naomi.

(1) THE MIZ vs. SETH ROLLINS vs. FINN BALOR

They all came out with new ring jackets and ring gear. Balor had rainbow colored accents on his black boots and trunks. Rollins had blue contact lenses. Miz had red gear with gold accents. Miz sent Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas to the back. Cole said fatherhood has changed him. This was a good match to start the main part of the show. Cole said this was a pick ?em match with three equal wrestlers. Seth hit some dives on both sides of the ring rapid-fire five minutes in. They showed Sean in the crowd. Miz put Balor in a figure-four, prompting Cole to mention that odd pairing of Miz as Ric Flair?s protege years ago. The hold was broken up by a big Seth splash. Balor landed a Pel? kick, which Cole called an ?overhead kick,? leading to a near fall. Miz launched Seth out of air toward the mat with a variation of the Skull Crushing Finale. He made the cover, but Balor leaped off the top rope with a Coup de Grace and broke it up. Balor lived afterward. A ?Let?s Go Balor? chant started. Balor hit Miz with a sling blade and a running dropkick. Balor leaped off the top rope and hit the Coup de Grave, but Seth gave him the Stomp as he went for the cover. Seth then stomped the mat and moved for another Stomp on Miz, driving his face into the mat for the three count.

WINNER: Seth Rollins in 16:00 to capture the Intercontinental Title. (***1/2)

Good match, exactly what you?d expect from these three in an opening match high-energy but not exhausting match. The only surprise is they didn?t do anything with Miz and whether he really has become a good sportsman because fatherhood changed him.

(2) CHARLOTTE vs. ASUKA ? WWE Smackdown Women?s Title match

Back and forth healthy methodical pace early, with Asuka on offense at first and then Charlotte taking over. Charlotte went for a top rope moonsault, but Asuka spread her legs and caught her in a leg triangle. Graves called it a Venus Flytrap. Charlotte shifted into a Boston Crab. They leveraged each other in near falls. The crowd applauded as the match was about to shift into second gear. Asuka suplexed Charlotte off the ring apron onto the floor. Both were down and slow to get up. (I bet Phillips almost reflexively threw to a commercial break.)

Charlotte gave Asuka a Spanish Fly off the top rope. Both were slow to recover. Asuka caught Charlotte in a twisting torquing submission. Charlotte escaped and set up a figure-four, but Asuka kicked out and the match hit third gear. Asuka kicked. Charlotte chopped. Asuka went for an Asuka lock. Charlotte resisted. Charlotte speared Asuka for a two count at 12:00. Charlotte then put Asuka into the Figure-Eight. She couldn?t put weight on her right arm and bridged on two legs and one arm. Asuka rather quickly tapped out.

WINNER: Charlotte in 13:00. (***)

Wow. Surprising finish in that it wasn?t much of an end to the streak in terms of Asuka having a chance to really showcase her signature spots before losing. It almost felt like a downgrade in Vince McMahon?s faith in her not that she lost, but how she lost.

-After the match Asuka asked for a mic. She said, ?Charlotte! Was! Ready! For Asuka!? She congratulated her and hugged her.

(3) RANDY ORTON vs. BOBBY ROODE vs. JINDER MAHAL (w/Samil Singh) vs. RUSEV (w/Aiden English)

They went to a parade of announce teams from around the world. Big pop for Rusev and a ?Rusev Day? chant as he came out. English introduced him. Jinder blocked a Rusev dive through the ropes early. Everybody got spots in early. At 6:00 Orton gave an RKO to English as he interfered. Then he gave Rusev an RKO. The crowd booed. He then gave an RKO to Jinder. Roode broke up the in attempt (well, not really, since Roode piled on top of Orton who was still covering Jinder whose shoulders were still down).R Roode tossed Rusev out of the ring, then blocked an RKO attempt by Orton and hit a sudden Glorious DDT. Jinder broke up the pin (and Orton actually lifted his shoulder). Rusev entered with a Machka Kick on Roode and then Jinder. He looked around as the crowd loudly chanted ?Rusev Day!? He stomped on Jinder and then went for the Accolade. Samil distracted Rusev. Jinder then gave him his Khalas Kick for the win.

WINNER: Jinder Mahal in 9:00 to capture the U.S. Title. (**1/2)
 
This wasn?t designed to be a show-stealer. Some matches have to be kept short to keep the show from running way too long, and this was a good choice. I suppose in a way this title change frees up everyone else to be part of a Superstar Shake-up and switch brands without affecting the title. It also puts a belt on Smackdown on a heel to even things out with the other two major titles on babyfaces, no matter which way A.J. Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura goes later ? barring a turn.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 34 PPV Results: 4-8-18
Post by: Arcademan on April 09 2018, 11:23 am
(4) RONDA ROUSEY & KURT ANGLE vs. TRIPLE H & STEPHANIE MCMAHON

Triple H and Stephanie came out on three wheel motorcycles. That likely means no Biker Taker tonight. The announcers just gushed about the ring entrance and talked up the career of Triple H like their jobs depended on it. Then Angle came out to his music. Finally Rousey in a kilt and a Roddy Piper jacket. She was wearing her Facil Expression #2 ? her smile. (Cole said only two people have transitioned from ?starting in UFC? to WWE ? Ken Shamrock and now Ronda Rousey. Shamrock was a pro wrestler before UFC existed, so if you include him, then you include Brock Lesnar, unless he?s talking strictly WWE and UFC as brands.)

A loud ?Ronda Rousey? chant broke out early. Steph and Hunter entered the ring to boos. Stephanie pie-faced Rousey pre-match. She ran up behind Rousey and yanked her down by her hair. The ref separated them and then the bell rang. Angle began against Triple H. Cole said Hunter and Steph told the referee before the match, ?Remember who signs your paychecks.? (I half-expected Cole to say, ?They usually only tell us that.?) Stephanie pulled the top rope down so Angle tumbled over the top rope and crashed at ringside. Hunter then whipped Angle into the ringside steps. Hunter walked over and trash-talked Rousey. (Foreshadowing that Rousey taps out Hunter to end the match?)

Hunter was calling spots pretty loud as he carried Angle through the early minutes one laborious move at a time. Hunter charged at Angle, but Angle ducked and Hunter almost hit Stephanie. They froze in place. When Angle reached for a tag to Ronda, Stephanie ran over and yanked her off the ring apron. Cole said: ?It is completely manipulation of rules tonight by Triple H and Stephanie.? (That phrase doesn?t sound accidental or impromptu.) Steph smiled. Angle locked a Pedigree attempt and threw Hunter into the corner and Hunter bumped to the floor. Steph called out, ?Hunter! Hunter!? Angle crawled over milked it but tagged in Rousey. Rousey yanked Steph into the ring  by her hair, flipping her over the top rope. She had a great intense look. She ducked a clothesline and then clotheslined Steph, flipping over herself afterward. Then she one-arm slammed her. Rousey punched away at Steph in the corner. The crowd ate it up. Intense heat. Fans were standing. She whipped Steph across the ring by her hair.

Rousey grounded Steph and set up an armbar. Stephanie blocked it by holding her hands together and pulling back. Take notes, MMA students. ?Ronda might get pinned!? said Graves. Steph raked Ronda?s eyes, then crawled over for a tag. Hunter hadn?t returned to the ring apron yet. Steph turned and kicked Rousey and then DDT?d her for a two count. Coach said he was surprised at how good Rousey has looked, but Stephanie has surprised her too. Stephanie applied a standing surfboard. Rousey cried out in pain and then stood and poured out, but Steph yanked her down hard by her hair.

Steph charged, but Rousey grabbed her by her throat. She got her intense look, then lifted Stephanie on her shoulders and gave her a spinning Samoan drop for a two count. Hunter yanked the ref out as he was about to try for a third slap. Rousey yelled at Hunter and said she?s going to go back to beating up his wife. Hunter yanked Rousey out of the ring by her leg. Angle ran over and attacked Hunter. He set up a back suplex on the announce table. Hunter blocked it and threw Angle onto the next table.

Rousey re-entered the ring and looked ready to fight. Hunter stood up and looked around. Rousey looked ready to fight him. The ref told him he had to leave. Rousey said she wanted him. Hunter pushed the referee into the corner as if to signal that he signs the checks. Hunter turned around and smiled and said, sure, if that?s what you want. Rousey punched away at Hunter?s face and body rapid-fire.

Ronda then lifted Hunter for a Samoan slam, but Steph saved him and yanked him down, then slapped Rousey. Rousey turned and stared at her. Steph bailed out and ran. Rousey chased after her and caught her. (She?d have never caught Braun Strowman.) Rousey lifted Steph, but Steph slipped free and shoved Rousey into the ringpost face-first. Angle came up behind Hunter and gave him two belly-to-belly suplexes. Hunter came back with a knee to the face, but Angle then went into his unreleased German suplex sequence ? three in a row. Hunter tried for a Pedigree, but Angle went for an Anklelock. Hunter blocked it and again went for a Pedigree. Angle catapulted Hunter into the top turnbuckle and then hit an Angle Slam for a near fall that popped the crowd.

Stephanie entered the ring and yelled at Angle, saying this whole thing is his fault. She tried to kick him, but he grabbed her leg and held it. The ref told Angle to let go. The crowd chanted ?Yes!? Angle put her in the Anklelock. Hunter made the save and gave Angle a Pedigree. Rousey broke up the pin. Hunter stood and stared down Rousey. Fan chanted ?This is awesome!? Cole said fans were chanting it for Rousey. Hunter then set up a Pedigree, but instead set up a powerbomb. Rousey countered with a a huracanrana and applied her armbar with a leg scissors. Steph made the save and put Rousey in a rear naked choke. ?Rousey could fade here!? Cole said.

Rousey stood and flailed to escape and eventually flipped out and put an armbar on Stephanie. Angle put Hunter in an ankle lock to stop him from breaking it up. It looked like a possible finish, but Hunter escaped and flung Angle into Rousey and he clotheslined her. Oops.

Cole called it an incredible match. Hunter shoved Angle into the corner ringpost shoulder-first. Stephanie got up and checked for a plan with Hunter. They set up stereo Pedigrees. Angle backdropped Hunter out of the ring. Rousey then broke free and went for her armbar. Stephanie blocked it and yelled, ?Please, no! No! No!? Then she made her tap. They cut to Dana White in the front row applauding the win. Cole said he was very impressed with Rousey ?as she embarks on her career here in WWE.? Angle hugged her.

WINNER: Rousey & Angle when Rousey tapped out Stephanie.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 34 PPV Results: 4-8-18
Post by: Arcademan on April 09 2018, 12:03 pm
(5) THE USOS vs. THE NEW DAY (Kofi Kingston & Big E w/Xavier Woods) vs. THE BLUDGEON BROTHERS

The New Day came out to a virtual giant stack of pancakes on both sides of the entrance stage. Phillips stressed that New Day were inspired to bring pancakes to the ring because of the lumberjack match way back (it wasn?t based on a century-long stereotype, in other words!). They were joined by seven little people wearing pancake body suits. New Day tossed real pancakes to the crowd on their way to the ring. Byron: ?This is a parade of pancakes!?

The Bludgeon Brothers came out and immediately took it to the Usos and New Day at ringside. They threw Xavier into the ringpost and then threw Kofi into the ring. When the Usos dove at Erick Rowan at ringside a few minutes in, Rowan caught them. They still managed to slam him. Back in the ring, Big E lifted Luke Harper for a slam, then tagged in Kofi. Harper ducked and then slammed Kofi in a slightly botched spot as he didn?t get any lift.

The Usos set up a double suplex of Harper, but Down broke it up. Kofi kicked Rowan over the top rope. Kofi charged at Harper, but got head butted. Rowan then powerbombed Kofi. That set up a double powerbomb off the top rope for the win.

WINNERS: The Bludgeon Brothers in 5:00 to capture the Smackdown Tag Team Titles.

That worked fine. It put over the Bludgeon Brothers strong and didn?t overstay its welcome. This isn?t the show for a tag team classic.

-John Cena came out to his entrance music. ?It?s about to get interesting,? he said. ?Welcome to WrestleMania? Then suddenly Jo Jo introduced him for an unnamed match. Cole said he just heard Cena say, ?He is here.? He said he must be talking about Undertaker.

A referee ran out and told Cena something. Cena didn?t seem to like what he heard. He looked dejected again. Fans chanted ?Un-der-taker!? Cena left the ring and slapped fans? hands. The lights went out. The crowd popped. Then Elias strummed his guitar and walked onto the stage. (Psych!)

Elias asked if they were expecting someone else. He said that somebody else doesn?t have his unmatched charisma and athleticism, nor does he have the unlimited talent he carries in his soul. Fans chanted ?You suck!? at him. He said if they thought it?d be another walk in the park, ?not with me.? Cena left and sat back at ringside, but eventually had enough of Elias?s lyrics and attacked him. Elias bailed out after his diving shoulder tackles, side slam, fist drop, and Attitude Adjustment. Elias rolled out of the ring. Cena looked discouraged as fans began chanting ?Un-der-taker!? again. Cole asked if that counts as a WrestleMania Moment for Cena. Coach said this isn?t the night Cena wanted to have. ?I?ve never seen him more not into something than he is right now,? Coach said. (He didn?t watch his Summerslam match against Baron Corbin last year, then.)

Cena?s music stopped halfway up the ramp. He stopped. The lights went out. The crowd cheered. And then inside the ring was the Undertaker ?Dead Man? hat and robe. Then lightning struck and the lights went dark again. Then when they came back on, the ring was empty again. Cena looked a little wide-eyed. The lights went out yet again. Then came the ?Dong!? and a huge pop. Pyro began blasting and the anticipation built. Undertaker?s music played. And then he appeared on the stage ? as the Dead Man, not Biker Taker. Long hair. Cena?s jaw dropped. ?The Dead Man has risen!? said Cole, starting to get hoarse. Cole called Taker the ?most prolific? WWE performer in history. Graves said he knew all along he?d answer. Coach said everyone is in disbelief. ?This is surreal,? said Graves. He added the old adage, ?Be careful what you wish for because you just might get it.? Cena kneeled in a corner of the ring. Coach said Cena brought Taker back, nobody else. Taker stared a hole in Cena. Cena hyperventilated a bit.

(6) JOHN CENA vs. THE UNDERTAKER

Taker took it to Cena as soon as the bell rang wit punches and a flying clothesline. Then he walked the top rope and came off with a forearm to Cena?s back. Cole said Taker is focused and in a zone. A fan held up an ?RIP Cena? sign. Graves said Cena just be regretting callout The Dead Man. Coach said surely Cena got under the skin of Undertaker. Taker gave Cena snake eyes. He gave Cena a big boot, which showed a lot of light (blame Cena). Taker legdropped him. Cena back suplexed Taker. The crowd booed. Cena began his You Can?t See Me routine, but Taker sat up. Taker then gave Cena a chokeslam. Taker lowered his straps and signaled for a chokeslam. Then he picked up Cena and gave him a Tombstone for the three count. Cole said Taker didn?t just beat Cena, he routed Cena.

WINNER: Undertaker in 3:00.

That was crowd pleasing. The psychology, now in retrospect, makes sense. Have Cena be a jerk about it and lower expectations so when fans get Undertaker and the match lasts just three minutes and Taker wins decisively, fans feel they got more than was actually promised and the right guy lost decisively. Not the classic once hoped for, but taking into consideration Taker?s physical condition at his age, that was a special bonus chapter of his career, but to be judged differently than the rest.
Title: WWE WrestleMania 34 PPV Results: 4 -8-18
Post by: Arcademan on April 09 2018, 02:20 pm
(9) A.J. STYLES vs. SHINSUKE NAKAMURA ? WWE Title match

They locked up mid-ring and there was a palpable buzz in the crowd. Phillips noted Styles seems really emotional and that?s something Nakamura believes he can take advantage of that. First gear pace for the next six minutes after some intensity early. The crowd seemed to welcome the rest as it?s now six hours since the Kickoff Show began.

At 11:00 Nakamura caught Styles on a springboard and turned into a ?landslide? sitout cradle slam out of a Samoan drop position. Nakamura put Styles on the top rope and then high kicked him. Styles escaped and then worked over Nakamura?s knee. Nakamura trapped Styles in a head triangle. Styles lifted and then dropped Nakamura on his head. The crowd gasped at the impact. Both were down and slow to get up.

At 16:00 Nakamura kicked Styles, but clutched his left knee in pain afterward. Styles hit the Phenomenal Forearm for a near fall. Styles misfired on a springboard flip splash, landing Nakamura?s knees. He scored a two count. Styles head butted Nakamura as soon as both stood. They exchanged blows mid-ring. Styles landed a Pel? kick. Nakamura fired back with a knee to the back of his head for a near fall. Next he signaled for his finisher, but Styles moved and hit the Styles Clash for the clean win.

WINNER: Styles in 21:00. (***1/2)

It was good, no doubt, but considering expectations, it felt like a letdown.

-Styles helped Nakamura up and they hugged. He kneeled and presented Styles with the belt. Then he delivered a low blow. Nakamura began mocking Styles and he kicked at him and shoved him out of the ring. He beat him up some more including a Kinshasa Kick. The crowd booed as Nakamura walked up the ramp.

Had Nakamura?s push gone better, I?d be against this. I think this is a potentially invigorating change for him in WWE. I wonder if he?ll end up with a manager, though?


-Braun said everyone wants to know who his partner is. He said it?s one of the fans. They showed fans volunteering. Strowman circled ringside and scanned the crowd. He then walked into the crowd and kept looking. Graves said he has 78,000 options, so this could take a while. He picked out a boy in the crowd. Strowman asked him his name. It?s Nicholas.

(10) SHEAMUS & CESARO vs. BRAUN STROWMAN & A KID NAMED NICHOLAS

Strowman beat up Cesaro at first and made the cover. Sheamus broke up the pin. Strowman chased him out of the ring. Graves criticized Nicholas for not tripping Sheamus. The heel duel took over with a double-team. Nicholas watched nervously. Nicholas reached for a tag. Nicholas entered the ring. He looked scared and tagged right back out. Strowman caught Cesaro and gave him a running powerslam or the three count.

Strowman and Nicholas celebrated mid-ring, holding up the belts. Graves said he hopes Nicholas doesn?t get first class tickets before he does. Strowman led a smiling Nicholas up the ramp.

WINNER: Strowman & Nicholas in 5:00 to capture the WWE Raw Tag Team Titles.

Cute, I suppose. It?s one of those Pure Sports Entertainment Moments that will get some mainstream media play and certain type of fan will like, but another big portion won?t at all.

(11) BROCK LESNAR vs. ROMAN REIGNS ? WWE Title match

More boos for Reigns during formal ring introductions. Heyman stopped Jo Jo from introducing Lesnar. He took over. The crowd talked along with him.

Lesnar took it to Reigns early with some suplexes. Reigns followed with Superman Punches, which drew boos. He knocked Lesnar over the top rope with a clothesline. Lesnar took it too Reigns at ringside and suplexed him on top of his head. He hit his head hard. The crowd began chanting ?C.M. Punk.? Lesnar then threw Reigns hard and awkwardly into the announce table. Back in the ring, he gave Reigns a released German suplex. More suplexes. Lesnar jogged in place.

Lesnar overhead suplexed Reigns onto his shoulder. They replayed it in slo-mo. Lesnar whipped Reigns hard into the barricade a minute later. Reigns came back by slipped out of Lesnar?s grip and shoved Lesnar hard into the ringpost. Reigns struggled to stay standing. Reigns charged and speared Lesnar onto the announce table, which switched

(Cole?s mic to be heard in the entire arena briefly. That was quite a visual. Reigns threw Lesnar back into the ring. A beach ball broke out in the crowd. Reigns signaled for the Superman Punch and hit it. Then he hit a spear. Then he hit a second spear. Two count.

Reigns went for a spear, but Lesnar kneed him out of mid-air and scored a very near three count. Then an F5 for a near fall. Another F5 and another kickout. Lesnar yelled out in frustration. The crowd didn?t care either way. Then a third F5 and Reigns kicked out again. ?Boring!? chanted the crowd. Lesnar then gave Reigns an F5 onto the table. Not much of a reaction. Tired and disinterested crowd. Lesnar hit a fifth F5. ?This is awful!? chants the crowd. Lesnar not sure what to do with this. Reigns came up bleeding heavily, perhaps hard-way from a vicious elbow. That?s a lot of blood. Wow.

Reigns slipped out of another F5, speared Lesnar twice and got a near fall. His face was covered in red blood. Lesnar lifted Reigns and gave him another F5 and scored the pin. Big pop.

WINNER: Lesnar to retain the WWE Title.

Disaster.