So I'm driving down to Jersey to hang out with SCR Original Hardcore Kevin Brady. I pass a 711 down the street from his house and this stream of conciousness passes through my head:
Brain: Oh man 711 I should stop and grab a bunch of the Jimmy Hart energy drinks for my ride back.
Other voice in head: Stupid those things made you take the worst dump ever.
Brain: Ooooooooh yeah. Well what do you recommend?
Other voice in head: RAW Energy drink powered by SOCKO POWER.
*CUE SLAMMING ON THE BRAKES*
Ok so you're telling me this relatively new energy drink by the WWE is being promoted with a gimmick from a guy who hardly wrestles there? Then it hit me.
WWE has not created a star in the longest time. You can try and point to John Cena but when your biggest face is being booed by 90% of the crowd and his DVD debuts in the $1.99 bin. You have not created a star. What about Randy Orton you say? Well I'm a big fan of Randy Orton but he lacks some star power mostly because he is ya know NOT LIKEABLE. He poops in people's bags for fucksake. So then you go down some other big name stars: Lashley was hot for a hot minute got a cover of a fitness mag. Then he got hurt and he really has no personality.
Brock Lesnar welp he was a star. Complete with Diva attitude and all. But he seemingly used the WWE to springboard himself into the NFL. FAIL. And now MMA which hopefully Frank Mir will show Lesnar that a shooting star press is not going to work in the octagon.
And who else has their been that WWE has made into mainstream headliners? Eddy and Benoit... we know how those turn out. There really hasn't been a big star MADE by the WWE in a long time.
Late 80s early 90s you had: Savage, Hogan, Hart, Diesel, HBK, Triple H coming into his own... you had real stars. Guys who were larger than life. That were more than just in ring performers guys who would guest on TV shows and things of that nature. Then you had the Rock, Stone Cold, Foley and Triple H a little bit later in the 90s again guys who really were larger than life.
Who is there now? Who will draw mainstream attention to WWE? If Edge was used properly it could be him. But he also has the whole unlikeable quality ya know from supposedly stealing Matt Hardy's girlfriend... which much like Montreal I think the jury is still out on if that was a work or a shoot.
I don't think anyone can rise from the current crop of mediocrity on the WWE roster to transcend the sport and bring mainstream attention back to the wrestling industry.
Looking down the RAW roster I only see one guy who could possibly make that leap: Kennedy. He has the look. He has the mic skill he has the in ring skill to get the wrestling fan behind him. Although I'm hearing that he is quite the prick backstage so that may slow him down.
Oh and I know tweedle dee and tweedle dumb will clamor for Santino Marella... but no. No he will never be a true star.
SmackDown... again the aforementioned Edge and maybe Batista but the first place you gotta gain the respect and attention is from wrestling fans. And that means ALL wrestling fans. Batista has the marks. But he doesn't have the smart fans for the very reason he's terrible.
On ECW there are two guys who could really break the mold and become transcedent stars. CM Punk... who if anyone who writes or books the Fed had half a brain would have sky rocketed from the rub he got at Suvivor Series two years ago. But no. Instead he was supposed to feud with Benoit and after that went to shit they did nothing with him. CM Punk has alot of cross over potential. I don't know if he'd ever be mainstream but he certainly could bring alot of people to go to arenas and turn on their TVs to watch him. He has a very good look, he won't ever make it ya know on an NBC sit com like some of the other guys could but he could make it on MTV 2 or some other places to bring some more fans into the fold.
And I see Kevin Thorn especially with his new look as a guy who could become someone in a few years. He has a really solid look now. He's a pretty decent worker. He's a big guy... I think there's something there.
TNA luckily just gets to exploit one of WWE's last created mega stars in Kurt Angle. But they are grooming guys of their own. I wouldn't be surprised to see AJ Styles pop up in a movie or two, lord knows he's better than Dane Cook at comedy. Either way one of these two companies needs to find the "Next Big Thing" if you pardon the Lesnar reference to lead them into the next decade and bring some fans back to the ring.
-Hack
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Making It Up
I’m loving where everybody’s heads are at. Getting fired up for 2008 after a lackluster 2007 is a good thing. 2007 has a black cloud hanging over it due to one big tragedy that took place. A weekend that was inexcusable and left a blemish on the history of Sports Entertainment. The event that I’m referring to, as I’m sure you already know, is none other than Wrestlemania 23.
What? Not what you were expecting? Well let me explain. The 20th Anniversary of the show that put Professional Wrestling on the MAP came across more like the 10th Anniversary of the worst Wrestlemania of them all. WMXXIII had one great match to its credit in what was arguably the Match of the Year in Undertaker vs. Batista. Many will say that HBK vs. Cena was great, but I’m starting to get the feeling that any time Shawn Michaels has a good Wrestlemania match, he tops it with the same opponent a month or two later (HBK/Angle 2, HBK/Cena 2, HBK/HHH/Benoit 2, etc…).
So keeping with the “Wish List” theme of the last two entries and with the Royal Rumble just a few short weeks away, I thought it’d be fun to book Wrestlemania 23: Take 2 (Wrestlemania 24 for those of you who need a little assistance). I’m going to try and go with some things that would make sense along with what are believed to be some of the current plans. So let’s get started:
Main Event: Edge (Champ) vs. The Undertaker
Edge retains on Rey at the Rumble. After his win, lights out, Taker's Music Hits, Edge is terrified. Undertaker is cleaning house in the Rumble, just running through bitches. Suddenly, the Edgeheads come out of nowhere and eliminate the Dead Man. After Batista makes his choice of which Champion he'll face, Edge says “Well then whoever wants a shot at MY title has to go through the Elimination Chamber!" Undertaker still wins it and gets his shot which puts the fear of God into Edge.
Randy Orton (Champ) vs. Batista
For some reason, I can’t see Orton dropping the title before Mania this year. Him as Champion is kind of annoying and Batista taking the belt from him at Wrestlemania could be a nice semi-Main Event. Sure he’ll be all kinds of pissed for being the 2nd Main Event two years running, but F him. He should just be happy to get a WWE Championship run. Batista breathes some life back into the WWE Championship picture with his win and builds for Batista vs. Cena. Anyway, Batista wins the Royal Rumble this year and gets to choose who he faces at Mania. He’s never had a shot at the belt with the most history, so Orton is the choice he makes.
Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair - Retirement Match
Vince forces HBK to face Flair with both careers on the line. He knows Shawn’s ego won’t let him lose on the grandest stage of them all. He also knows that Flair has EVERYTHING to lose in this match. Big gay hug after a great match with Flair sobbing in public for one last time.
Triple H vs. JBL
The Wrestling God runs rampant on Raw. Like Orton keeping the belt, I don’t see Triple H turning heel just yet. Triple H pokes fun at JBL for having lost to Jericho at Rumble with his childish sense of humor. JBL’s pride and temper cause him to attack Triple H on Raw during his match with Orton for the WWE Championship. That’ll be the 2nd time JBL saves the title for Orton and it plants the seed for JBL/Triple H. The intensity in that feud would be nothing short of awesome.
MVP (US Champ) vs. Matt Hardy
No explanation needed for this one. Hot feud that will culminate with Hardy finally getting his title win at Wrestlemania. MVP’s Entrance might be worth the $50 to order the PPV.
MITB: Rey Mysterio vs. Ken Kennedy vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Johnny Nitro vs. The Miz vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Chris Jericho vs. Kane
Well these guys needed something to do and I really don’t think anyone wants to sit through 20 matches. I think this is a nice mix of competitors and Shelton is back to help us forget last year’s MITB ever happened. Rey Mysterio in Money in the Bank is a nice touch which could lead to some great interactions and spots between himself, Hardy, Nitro and Shelton. I can’t wait for the part where Kane goes nuts and choke slams EVERYBODY!!! Jericho wins to get his title shot.
Bobby Lashley vs. Big Daddy V
Yeesh. I know it looks bad, but it could be great. Visc Krude is a MONSTER right now and who took out the monster in Umaga at Mania last year? That’s right, Bobby Lindsay (“We love ya Bobby. Don’t we love Bobby everybody? We really love ya Bobby”). It could end up being a good match.
CM Punk (Champ) vs. Umaga
CM Punk’s ECW Championship run comes to an end when Armaaaando Alijaaaaandro Esssssttttttraaaaadaaaaa has Punk go up against his biggest challenge yet. The Samoan Bulldozer “You-Man-Ga”. Umaga needs a big win and this will be it. He’s starting to become enhancement talent on Raw and he needs to run rampant over a brand for awhile. ECW is the place for him to do it.
Great Khali vs. The Big Show
It won’t be pretty, but it’s bound to happen. I’m just looking for a stare down. That’s all I want.
Beth Phoenix (Champ) vs. Candice Michelle vs. Maria vs. Ashley Massaro
Diva Fatal Four Way for the Women’s Championship. Since Maria is looking to be this year’s Playboy Centerfold, they give her the belt in a fluke pin on Ashley that costs Phoenix the strap as her and Candice are pre-occupied with each other.
Santino & Carlito vs. Harry Smith & Cody Rhodes
Harry Smith & Cody Rhodes realize that they are both the sons of famous dead wrestlers and they figure it’d be a good idea to team up. Especially after Bob Holly calls it quits when Cody costs them the titles to the Italian Rican Connection. Cody & Little Bulldog win the tag belts and that leads to the slowly built split between my favorite Puerto Rican and the ONLY Italian I’ve ever liked.
That pretty much does it for my Fantasy Wrestlemania 24. If you don’t like it, I don’t really care. A good portion of it probably won’t happen anyway. Regardless, I think it should be a fun show and it could definitely make for an interesting 2008.
What? Not what you were expecting? Well let me explain. The 20th Anniversary of the show that put Professional Wrestling on the MAP came across more like the 10th Anniversary of the worst Wrestlemania of them all. WMXXIII had one great match to its credit in what was arguably the Match of the Year in Undertaker vs. Batista. Many will say that HBK vs. Cena was great, but I’m starting to get the feeling that any time Shawn Michaels has a good Wrestlemania match, he tops it with the same opponent a month or two later (HBK/Angle 2, HBK/Cena 2, HBK/HHH/Benoit 2, etc…).
So keeping with the “Wish List” theme of the last two entries and with the Royal Rumble just a few short weeks away, I thought it’d be fun to book Wrestlemania 23: Take 2 (Wrestlemania 24 for those of you who need a little assistance). I’m going to try and go with some things that would make sense along with what are believed to be some of the current plans. So let’s get started:
Main Event: Edge (Champ) vs. The Undertaker
Edge retains on Rey at the Rumble. After his win, lights out, Taker's Music Hits, Edge is terrified. Undertaker is cleaning house in the Rumble, just running through bitches. Suddenly, the Edgeheads come out of nowhere and eliminate the Dead Man. After Batista makes his choice of which Champion he'll face, Edge says “Well then whoever wants a shot at MY title has to go through the Elimination Chamber!" Undertaker still wins it and gets his shot which puts the fear of God into Edge.
Randy Orton (Champ) vs. Batista
For some reason, I can’t see Orton dropping the title before Mania this year. Him as Champion is kind of annoying and Batista taking the belt from him at Wrestlemania could be a nice semi-Main Event. Sure he’ll be all kinds of pissed for being the 2nd Main Event two years running, but F him. He should just be happy to get a WWE Championship run. Batista breathes some life back into the WWE Championship picture with his win and builds for Batista vs. Cena. Anyway, Batista wins the Royal Rumble this year and gets to choose who he faces at Mania. He’s never had a shot at the belt with the most history, so Orton is the choice he makes.
Shawn Michaels vs. Ric Flair - Retirement Match
Vince forces HBK to face Flair with both careers on the line. He knows Shawn’s ego won’t let him lose on the grandest stage of them all. He also knows that Flair has EVERYTHING to lose in this match. Big gay hug after a great match with Flair sobbing in public for one last time.
Triple H vs. JBL
The Wrestling God runs rampant on Raw. Like Orton keeping the belt, I don’t see Triple H turning heel just yet. Triple H pokes fun at JBL for having lost to Jericho at Rumble with his childish sense of humor. JBL’s pride and temper cause him to attack Triple H on Raw during his match with Orton for the WWE Championship. That’ll be the 2nd time JBL saves the title for Orton and it plants the seed for JBL/Triple H. The intensity in that feud would be nothing short of awesome.
MVP (US Champ) vs. Matt Hardy
No explanation needed for this one. Hot feud that will culminate with Hardy finally getting his title win at Wrestlemania. MVP’s Entrance might be worth the $50 to order the PPV.
MITB: Rey Mysterio vs. Ken Kennedy vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Johnny Nitro vs. The Miz vs. Shelton Benjamin vs. Chris Jericho vs. Kane
Well these guys needed something to do and I really don’t think anyone wants to sit through 20 matches. I think this is a nice mix of competitors and Shelton is back to help us forget last year’s MITB ever happened. Rey Mysterio in Money in the Bank is a nice touch which could lead to some great interactions and spots between himself, Hardy, Nitro and Shelton. I can’t wait for the part where Kane goes nuts and choke slams EVERYBODY!!! Jericho wins to get his title shot.
Bobby Lashley vs. Big Daddy V
Yeesh. I know it looks bad, but it could be great. Visc Krude is a MONSTER right now and who took out the monster in Umaga at Mania last year? That’s right, Bobby Lindsay (“We love ya Bobby. Don’t we love Bobby everybody? We really love ya Bobby”). It could end up being a good match.
CM Punk (Champ) vs. Umaga
CM Punk’s ECW Championship run comes to an end when Armaaaando Alijaaaaandro Esssssttttttraaaaadaaaaa has Punk go up against his biggest challenge yet. The Samoan Bulldozer “You-Man-Ga”. Umaga needs a big win and this will be it. He’s starting to become enhancement talent on Raw and he needs to run rampant over a brand for awhile. ECW is the place for him to do it.
Great Khali vs. The Big Show
It won’t be pretty, but it’s bound to happen. I’m just looking for a stare down. That’s all I want.
Beth Phoenix (Champ) vs. Candice Michelle vs. Maria vs. Ashley Massaro
Diva Fatal Four Way for the Women’s Championship. Since Maria is looking to be this year’s Playboy Centerfold, they give her the belt in a fluke pin on Ashley that costs Phoenix the strap as her and Candice are pre-occupied with each other.
Santino & Carlito vs. Harry Smith & Cody Rhodes
Harry Smith & Cody Rhodes realize that they are both the sons of famous dead wrestlers and they figure it’d be a good idea to team up. Especially after Bob Holly calls it quits when Cody costs them the titles to the Italian Rican Connection. Cody & Little Bulldog win the tag belts and that leads to the slowly built split between my favorite Puerto Rican and the ONLY Italian I’ve ever liked.
That pretty much does it for my Fantasy Wrestlemania 24. If you don’t like it, I don’t really care. A good portion of it probably won’t happen anyway. Regardless, I think it should be a fun show and it could definitely make for an interesting 2008.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
God It Took Me Forever!
While Tony made his wish list for 08... I will look back ever so briefly on 07. It may have been the worst year for Pro-Wrestling EVER. I mean that quite literally. The industry hit its lowest this year inside and outside the ring.
Now every year you have all these websites (ones like ours but more nerdy) coming out with their best of and this that and the other. I honestly cannot think of one memorable match, one memorable angle or one memorable worker that stands out to me as the So and So of the year. Wrestling on the whole has been on the down swing and I like Tony used to (don't know if you still do buddy.) feel like the best wrestling in on the indy scene. Is it cause I work there? Probably. Much like everything else you always think that what you are doing is better than everything else. Heck I thought Danny and Zack was the best radio show ever. But I just see so much more creativity on the indys. People more able to push the envelope and more willing to do so. While you're hard pressed to find more then 10 suplexes on any given WWE show you can go to an RoH show if that's your thing and see 100 different variations in one match. Now let's be real indy wrestling ain't all that. But neither is WWE and GASP nor is TNA. Although I prefer the later to most everything else.
But what was the one thing that everyone will remember from 2007? Chris Benoit. Now anyone who has just stumbled across this blog may know about wrestling and may know that respect is a big thing. We here at steel cage radio while we may practice that in all of our own various trips "behind the curtain" don't really give a fuck about it when we're blogging, or waxing philosophical on the mics as we used to. But I'm not gonna make any jokes. I will show restraint. Because I'd like to be taken at least minorly serious for a bit.
The Benoit thing may have been the worst thing to EVER happen to the industry. Wrestling was down as is. In ring product suffering, angles stale, workers shitty at best... and then this comes along and all the critiques of the biz can pick up their burning torches and pitchforks and head towards the gigantic billionaire dollar monster that is Vincent Kennedy McMahon. Chris made out to be the ultimate family man was now and murderer and GOD DAMNIT wrestling made him do it. Feuding with MVP may have that result for a lot of people so be careful Matt Hardy. It brought the industry down SOOOOOOOOO low. It was thought that it may never recover.
It has. A little. But alot of fans were lost and a lot of heat was unnecessarily lumped on. No doubt the industry is tough. But Chris is a big boy and makes er made big boy decisions. He could have invested better and not needed to put his body through that schedule. While I realize both the pills et al and the industry can be addictive plenty of people have made it out a live. Sure plenty more have died but at what point does the industry stop (or start) being culpable and people are held up to higher standards? I certainly do not have that answer. I don't think wrestling is a killer. I've been involved on and off for about 10 years and I've never killed anyone. Wrestling did cause me to commit a felony but thats only cause I absolutely crushed a parked car with the ring truck once and really did not feel like facing the consequences. I only mention this cause: a. it was parked and b. i'm relatively sure the statute of limitations is up on that accident. If not I'm pretty boned. Just like the wrestling business was in 2007.
See that segue there. As for 08 what I'd like to see:
1. TNA getting more exposure. You need to give it a chance New Blood. Ya really do. The announcers suck and the six sided ring is still GAAAAAAAAAAAAY but the product is fun. It has great wrestling. Quirky stupid little storylines. Nice deep long running storylines. And it has some great personalities. Something lacking from WWE.
2. I much like Tony would like a reason to watch WWE. I'm going to watch the Rumble because I love the Rumble... But I don't know what else. Routinely I have conflicts on my DVR and RAW always loses the battle. ECW has been dropped from the DVR rotation and SmackDown never made it. I just don't enjoy the product any more. I'm sorry but I don't need to see how Ric Flair is gonna cheat death this week. And although Jeff Hardy has shown he's more than just a stunt man. I've seen EVERY ONE OF HIS MATCHES before. They don't change all that much.
3. A push for Santino Marella... off a ledge. What the fuck do you guys see in this dude?
4. The establishment of a serious tag division in WWE. Tag team wrestling is amazing... why is it so neglected by the E?
5. WWE loosening up on their list of banned moves which I believe they are.
and finally...
6. A new WWE developmental territory in Connecticut... I know just the place. I'll See See ya.
-Hack
Now every year you have all these websites (ones like ours but more nerdy) coming out with their best of and this that and the other. I honestly cannot think of one memorable match, one memorable angle or one memorable worker that stands out to me as the So and So of the year. Wrestling on the whole has been on the down swing and I like Tony used to (don't know if you still do buddy.) feel like the best wrestling in on the indy scene. Is it cause I work there? Probably. Much like everything else you always think that what you are doing is better than everything else. Heck I thought Danny and Zack was the best radio show ever. But I just see so much more creativity on the indys. People more able to push the envelope and more willing to do so. While you're hard pressed to find more then 10 suplexes on any given WWE show you can go to an RoH show if that's your thing and see 100 different variations in one match. Now let's be real indy wrestling ain't all that. But neither is WWE and GASP nor is TNA. Although I prefer the later to most everything else.
But what was the one thing that everyone will remember from 2007? Chris Benoit. Now anyone who has just stumbled across this blog may know about wrestling and may know that respect is a big thing. We here at steel cage radio while we may practice that in all of our own various trips "behind the curtain" don't really give a fuck about it when we're blogging, or waxing philosophical on the mics as we used to. But I'm not gonna make any jokes. I will show restraint. Because I'd like to be taken at least minorly serious for a bit.
The Benoit thing may have been the worst thing to EVER happen to the industry. Wrestling was down as is. In ring product suffering, angles stale, workers shitty at best... and then this comes along and all the critiques of the biz can pick up their burning torches and pitchforks and head towards the gigantic billionaire dollar monster that is Vincent Kennedy McMahon. Chris made out to be the ultimate family man was now and murderer and GOD DAMNIT wrestling made him do it. Feuding with MVP may have that result for a lot of people so be careful Matt Hardy. It brought the industry down SOOOOOOOOO low. It was thought that it may never recover.
It has. A little. But alot of fans were lost and a lot of heat was unnecessarily lumped on. No doubt the industry is tough. But Chris is a big boy and makes er made big boy decisions. He could have invested better and not needed to put his body through that schedule. While I realize both the pills et al and the industry can be addictive plenty of people have made it out a live. Sure plenty more have died but at what point does the industry stop (or start) being culpable and people are held up to higher standards? I certainly do not have that answer. I don't think wrestling is a killer. I've been involved on and off for about 10 years and I've never killed anyone. Wrestling did cause me to commit a felony but thats only cause I absolutely crushed a parked car with the ring truck once and really did not feel like facing the consequences. I only mention this cause: a. it was parked and b. i'm relatively sure the statute of limitations is up on that accident. If not I'm pretty boned. Just like the wrestling business was in 2007.
See that segue there. As for 08 what I'd like to see:
1. TNA getting more exposure. You need to give it a chance New Blood. Ya really do. The announcers suck and the six sided ring is still GAAAAAAAAAAAAY but the product is fun. It has great wrestling. Quirky stupid little storylines. Nice deep long running storylines. And it has some great personalities. Something lacking from WWE.
2. I much like Tony would like a reason to watch WWE. I'm going to watch the Rumble because I love the Rumble... But I don't know what else. Routinely I have conflicts on my DVR and RAW always loses the battle. ECW has been dropped from the DVR rotation and SmackDown never made it. I just don't enjoy the product any more. I'm sorry but I don't need to see how Ric Flair is gonna cheat death this week. And although Jeff Hardy has shown he's more than just a stunt man. I've seen EVERY ONE OF HIS MATCHES before. They don't change all that much.
3. A push for Santino Marella... off a ledge. What the fuck do you guys see in this dude?
4. The establishment of a serious tag division in WWE. Tag team wrestling is amazing... why is it so neglected by the E?
5. WWE loosening up on their list of banned moves which I believe they are.
and finally...
6. A new WWE developmental territory in Connecticut... I know just the place. I'll See See ya.
-Hack
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
2008 Wishlist
Well... I deem it too late for an Official Best of 2007 Blog.. So, let's look ahead to the best of 2008!! Or what I hope will be the best of 2008!! And what the hell... Let's make it a top 10! Well, a list of ten, in no particular order... In fact, they will all be # 4
4) More Philly Indy Wrestling!!
I know what you are thinking. There is too much of it as it is. False! There is a lot of crappy wrestling in this city. Only two promotions run consistently every single month. And one of them is PWU. The other, is CZW. Both inconsistent. PWU, by far, the worst promotion ever. At least they used to tailor to us marks by bringing in Brutus Beefcake and the Nasty Boys. Now they are booking names that even I have never heard of...and in the main event no less... eeeks. So, yes, lets get CZW back on track, RoH to come here more than 2-3 times a year and how about another promotion or two. I liked the Philly Warz!!! I got to see a lot of decent wrestling!
4) Santino Morella start winning matches.
Yes, I know, that isn't what he is there for. But if this guy is gonna be the next rock, he's gotta step it up in the ring somewhat. I mean, he is on a similar path as the rock. The booed and heckled babyfaced turned entertaining heel. Neither role really planned for. That's how stars are born. Not forcefed and overexposed, but by accident. It is strange to say, but i feel Santino has more of a shot at being a future star than pretty much anyone on the brand.
4) Edge!!
By far, the best thing in wrestling. One of the few reasons to still watch (or read results online and then decide whether or not to waste the hour downloading the copyrighted material to see it). He's the best. I wish for him an injury free year of debauchery and world championships!!
4) Nigel McWhiner
Cry baby of an RoH World Champion. He should be in the WWE. He's got the size, he's got A look, he's got the talent, He's got a funny accent. The crowds are turning on him in RoH, I would like to see that continue, I think it's funny. But at the end of the day, give this guy a contract.
4) The Best Royal Rumble Ever!!
They Royal Rumble is always one of everybodys favorite events of the year, and I hope this years is no different. Already shaping up to be a helluva a card and we have Mick Foley coming out of retirement to wrestle in the Royal Rumble match itself!! Plus, I am going to be there, and like good things to happen when I am there. Plus plus, the wwe has to make up for that debacle they call Raw that I attended a few months back.....
4) More deathmatches!!
I am a bloodmark. I care very little for most workers safety and well being. I want to se crazier spots, bigger bumps, more blood, etc etc etc
4)The desire to watch wwe tv again.
It's just so god damn awful most times. Even when something good is on, I end up missing it because I don't want to sit through the shit surrounding it to get there..which leads to........
4) TNA!
Fold. Fuck everybody involved. It is the biggest waste of talent ever. I don't even waste my time watching their ppv's for free on stolen cable. Go fuck yourself, tna. I can't even fathom how with so much talent, their shows are as bad as they are.
4) More Deaths
It's been pretty quiet lately. And, which leaves me one less topic to make inappropriate jokes that cross the line. So, I'm looking towards you, Jake "The Snake," the man who has screwed more people out of death pools than a cure for cancer. Bobby Heenan too.
1) I lied..this one is more important than the rest.
My #1 wish for wrestling in 2008 is....
The WWE to offer me a job as their new commentator to replace anybody on anyshow, anytime, anywhere. I don't even need to explain this one.
So, let's hope 2008 is as good as 2007 (Which shouldn't be hard to do, since 2007 fucking blew donkey balls) and, if it's not... it's still better than 95.... Sorry, Delgado.. I know you ran (still run?) on "Deisel Power," buddy...
4) More Philly Indy Wrestling!!
I know what you are thinking. There is too much of it as it is. False! There is a lot of crappy wrestling in this city. Only two promotions run consistently every single month. And one of them is PWU. The other, is CZW. Both inconsistent. PWU, by far, the worst promotion ever. At least they used to tailor to us marks by bringing in Brutus Beefcake and the Nasty Boys. Now they are booking names that even I have never heard of...and in the main event no less... eeeks. So, yes, lets get CZW back on track, RoH to come here more than 2-3 times a year and how about another promotion or two. I liked the Philly Warz!!! I got to see a lot of decent wrestling!
4) Santino Morella start winning matches.
Yes, I know, that isn't what he is there for. But if this guy is gonna be the next rock, he's gotta step it up in the ring somewhat. I mean, he is on a similar path as the rock. The booed and heckled babyfaced turned entertaining heel. Neither role really planned for. That's how stars are born. Not forcefed and overexposed, but by accident. It is strange to say, but i feel Santino has more of a shot at being a future star than pretty much anyone on the brand.
4) Edge!!
By far, the best thing in wrestling. One of the few reasons to still watch (or read results online and then decide whether or not to waste the hour downloading the copyrighted material to see it). He's the best. I wish for him an injury free year of debauchery and world championships!!
4) Nigel McWhiner
Cry baby of an RoH World Champion. He should be in the WWE. He's got the size, he's got A look, he's got the talent, He's got a funny accent. The crowds are turning on him in RoH, I would like to see that continue, I think it's funny. But at the end of the day, give this guy a contract.
4) The Best Royal Rumble Ever!!
They Royal Rumble is always one of everybodys favorite events of the year, and I hope this years is no different. Already shaping up to be a helluva a card and we have Mick Foley coming out of retirement to wrestle in the Royal Rumble match itself!! Plus, I am going to be there, and like good things to happen when I am there. Plus plus, the wwe has to make up for that debacle they call Raw that I attended a few months back.....
4) More deathmatches!!
I am a bloodmark. I care very little for most workers safety and well being. I want to se crazier spots, bigger bumps, more blood, etc etc etc
4)The desire to watch wwe tv again.
It's just so god damn awful most times. Even when something good is on, I end up missing it because I don't want to sit through the shit surrounding it to get there..which leads to........
4) TNA!
Fold. Fuck everybody involved. It is the biggest waste of talent ever. I don't even waste my time watching their ppv's for free on stolen cable. Go fuck yourself, tna. I can't even fathom how with so much talent, their shows are as bad as they are.
4) More Deaths
It's been pretty quiet lately. And, which leaves me one less topic to make inappropriate jokes that cross the line. So, I'm looking towards you, Jake "The Snake," the man who has screwed more people out of death pools than a cure for cancer. Bobby Heenan too.
1) I lied..this one is more important than the rest.
My #1 wish for wrestling in 2008 is....
The WWE to offer me a job as their new commentator to replace anybody on anyshow, anytime, anywhere. I don't even need to explain this one.
So, let's hope 2008 is as good as 2007 (Which shouldn't be hard to do, since 2007 fucking blew donkey balls) and, if it's not... it's still better than 95.... Sorry, Delgado.. I know you ran (still run?) on "Deisel Power," buddy...
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Genius!!!
Tonight's main event! Simply genius. Armageddon, overall, was a solid show, few bad finishes, some really good wrestling. It wasn't worth the forty dollars they charged... however, split a few ways, spending 10$ doesn't feel like a ripoff.
The main event, however. Batista defending against Undertaker and Edge. This was fairly paint by numbers triple threat match for most of the match. And then... Taker has batista in a choke..takers shoulders are down...is he going to get pinned?!? Is Batista going to pass out?!? Is someone going to grab the rop that they were dangerously close to?!?
Now, while this is going on, we are discussing the match, the event, life in general really, when the bell rings!! Catches us completely off guard!! The match is over!! Who won?!? Did batista pass out? was taker pinned? where was edge? what happened?!?!
EDGE!!! He had grabbed the ringbell and rang the bell to break up the hold!! We all thought the match was over!! But that dastardly heel turned a new trick and I fell for it, hook line and sinker... I couldn't believe the match was over!! It was a very exciting turn...
We then had the old eric angle..angle. Only this new twist.. two edges!! Not including Edge himself. Again! We weren't sure what was happening. We see edge go in the ring and get taken out. We then see Edge crawling about the ring as we see another Edge wincing in pain on the ground. While we attempt to decipher where the real edge is, we then see that are actually two fake edges distracting both taker and batista!! Which all leads to the inevitable...
EDGE regains the title that he never lost!! and in a fashion that I have never quite seen before!! What a finish. It was new and fresh and inventive and different. It wasn't the same ol status quo we have come to expect from Vince and co. I went from being quite blah towards this PPV. Nothing bad, but nothing great either..untill that!
As for the rest of the ppv... decent match countout...decent big mans+cm punk match flash pin...decent match superkick out of nowhere....decent match underdog rollup...decent match dq finish from a retired wrestler...womens match....Great dog and pony show main event!! I'd go out of your way to see it, but hopefully you see it before you read this..otherwise, it probably won't come off nearly as dastardly...
Thank You, Edge!!!
The main event, however. Batista defending against Undertaker and Edge. This was fairly paint by numbers triple threat match for most of the match. And then... Taker has batista in a choke..takers shoulders are down...is he going to get pinned?!? Is Batista going to pass out?!? Is someone going to grab the rop that they were dangerously close to?!?
Now, while this is going on, we are discussing the match, the event, life in general really, when the bell rings!! Catches us completely off guard!! The match is over!! Who won?!? Did batista pass out? was taker pinned? where was edge? what happened?!?!
EDGE!!! He had grabbed the ringbell and rang the bell to break up the hold!! We all thought the match was over!! But that dastardly heel turned a new trick and I fell for it, hook line and sinker... I couldn't believe the match was over!! It was a very exciting turn...
We then had the old eric angle..angle. Only this new twist.. two edges!! Not including Edge himself. Again! We weren't sure what was happening. We see edge go in the ring and get taken out. We then see Edge crawling about the ring as we see another Edge wincing in pain on the ground. While we attempt to decipher where the real edge is, we then see that are actually two fake edges distracting both taker and batista!! Which all leads to the inevitable...
EDGE regains the title that he never lost!! and in a fashion that I have never quite seen before!! What a finish. It was new and fresh and inventive and different. It wasn't the same ol status quo we have come to expect from Vince and co. I went from being quite blah towards this PPV. Nothing bad, but nothing great either..untill that!
As for the rest of the ppv... decent match countout...decent big mans+cm punk match flash pin...decent match superkick out of nowhere....decent match underdog rollup...decent match dq finish from a retired wrestler...womens match....Great dog and pony show main event!! I'd go out of your way to see it, but hopefully you see it before you read this..otherwise, it probably won't come off nearly as dastardly...
Thank You, Edge!!!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Top 15 Moments in Raw History
In the spirit of the 15th Anniversary of the most successful wrestling program of all time, I figured I’d do a little ranking and I’d like to invite the other 3 members of Steel Cage Radio to do the same. Putting all current tastes and preferences aside, it’s nice to sit back and reflect on some of those moments, matches and mishaps that have kept us involved in sports entertainment. WWE managed to provide a tremendous 3 Hour Tribute this past Monday and I want SCR to take a crack at it.
15 years ago Vince McMahon decided it was time to get away from Prime Time Wrestling and move over to Monday nights with a program that was uncut, uncooked and uncensored. In its early stages, Raw was different than what we had been accustomed to. As it developed it hit a nice stride, only to be outdone by WCW’s Monday Nitro. When Vince decided to turn up the volume on his product, the WWE went head and shoulders above its competitor and no promotion has come close since.
With that being said, I think it’d be appropriate to do a Top 15. I know it isn’t the traditional Top 10 that we are used to, but I think it is okay in this situation. Besides, we don’t have Flair’s music to introduce it. On this list I took the following into consideration: Entertainment Value, Impact on the Business, Quality, Personal Enjoyment and its place in Raw’s Legacy. So I present to you my Top 15 Moments in the History of Monday Night Raw:
15: The Draft – This was the beginning of the Roster Split we are familiar with today. Some of the biggest names in the company’s history were chosen to either be a part of Vince’s Smackdown or Ric Flair’s Raw. The Rock, The Undertaker, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, Kurt Angle, Edge, Big Show and Kane were sent to either show and it led to some entertaining television.
14: DX impersonates The Nation of Domination – Hilarious skit. I think the guys in blackface really teetered on the edge of taste, but I still laughed.
13: Hogan’s Reception – After putting on one of the greatest matches of all time with The Rock at WM18, Hogan opened Raw the next night to receive on of the longest ovations any Superstar has ever received. It brought the Hulkster to tears and clearly demonstrated the impact he has had on the business.
12: RAW is OWEN – Sad, but memorable edition of Raw following the loss of a great wrestler and person.
11: The Rock’s runs his mouth on Toronto – I put this promo on the highest of pedestals. The Rock beats Hogan for a 2nd time, shows up on Raw in Toronto and verbally destroys everyone. Austin, Hogan, the fans. His delivery, timing and heat generated is something to marvel. Easily my favorite promo of all time.
10: Austin Crucified – Austin being raised on The Undertaker’s crucifix-like logo is an image that will forever be associated with Raw’s controversial reputation.
9: Foley introduces Socko – Great skit that really got Foley over as a babyface and showcased his personality. Vince’s reactions are priceless as well as the Austin attack the followed later in the episode.
8: ECW Invasion – The night ECW invaded the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York was a memorable one as the WWE gave us a taste of something different and gave us something unpredictable.
7: Kirk Angel vs. Some Guy in a Steel Cage – Probably the best Steel Cage Match of all time where the pill-popping guy who wears the mouthpiece, flaming singlet and white sneakers in TNA fought some other guy whose name we can’t mention. The Olympic Gold Medalist’s moonsault from the top of the cage is hard to watch, but amazing at the same time. He’s lucky he came out alive…
6: RAW is JERICHO – A great way to debut a great talent. Weeks of mysterious build-up with a millennium countdown led to verbal magic between Y2J Chris Jericho and The Rock. I loved every second of it.
5: HBK gauze Promo – an obnoxious Shawn Michaels shows up with his little biker shorts stuffed with gauze and proceeded to disrespect Jim Ross during the entire interview. Certainly one of the first tastes of the Attitude Era.
4: Foley Wins the Title – “Yeah, that’ll put butts in the seats”. Actually Schiavone it did. In fact, it was the night the ratings switched and WCW began its downward spiral. Very important evening to say the least. Can’t imagine what would have happened if JR ever said, “Our competition is having David Arquette win their World Title. Ha!”
3: Beer Truck – That was just fun. The Austin Era was in full effect and it gave the home and live audiences something to remember.
2: Rock: This Is Your Life – The highest rated segment in Raw History. You don’t cut The Rock off at 2nd base. Poontang your ass on outta here.
1: Raw/Nitro Simulcast – Uhhh… probably the single most important moment in Monday Night Wrestling history. Vince won the war and now they are alone at the top. Very nice.
Honorable Mention: Sable Topless (Lawler’s reaction = Priceless), Pillman pulls a gun, Lightning Kid pins Razor Ramon, HBK vs. Cena, Bischoff, Flair, Heyman and The Radicals (Saturn, Malenko, Guerrero and some guy) all showing up on Raw.
Vince Has No Shame Moments: Trish Barks Like a Dog, Katie Vick, Kiss My Ass Club, Choppy Choppy Yo PeePee, Mae Young’s Rubber Hand, Hawk’s Drunken Fall, “You’re illegitimate ya big nasty bastard!”, Tribute Show for that guy… ya know…, and last but not least, The Attitude Era.
-Winky
15 years ago Vince McMahon decided it was time to get away from Prime Time Wrestling and move over to Monday nights with a program that was uncut, uncooked and uncensored. In its early stages, Raw was different than what we had been accustomed to. As it developed it hit a nice stride, only to be outdone by WCW’s Monday Nitro. When Vince decided to turn up the volume on his product, the WWE went head and shoulders above its competitor and no promotion has come close since.
With that being said, I think it’d be appropriate to do a Top 15. I know it isn’t the traditional Top 10 that we are used to, but I think it is okay in this situation. Besides, we don’t have Flair’s music to introduce it. On this list I took the following into consideration: Entertainment Value, Impact on the Business, Quality, Personal Enjoyment and its place in Raw’s Legacy. So I present to you my Top 15 Moments in the History of Monday Night Raw:
15: The Draft – This was the beginning of the Roster Split we are familiar with today. Some of the biggest names in the company’s history were chosen to either be a part of Vince’s Smackdown or Ric Flair’s Raw. The Rock, The Undertaker, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, Kurt Angle, Edge, Big Show and Kane were sent to either show and it led to some entertaining television.
14: DX impersonates The Nation of Domination – Hilarious skit. I think the guys in blackface really teetered on the edge of taste, but I still laughed.
13: Hogan’s Reception – After putting on one of the greatest matches of all time with The Rock at WM18, Hogan opened Raw the next night to receive on of the longest ovations any Superstar has ever received. It brought the Hulkster to tears and clearly demonstrated the impact he has had on the business.
12: RAW is OWEN – Sad, but memorable edition of Raw following the loss of a great wrestler and person.
11: The Rock’s runs his mouth on Toronto – I put this promo on the highest of pedestals. The Rock beats Hogan for a 2nd time, shows up on Raw in Toronto and verbally destroys everyone. Austin, Hogan, the fans. His delivery, timing and heat generated is something to marvel. Easily my favorite promo of all time.
10: Austin Crucified – Austin being raised on The Undertaker’s crucifix-like logo is an image that will forever be associated with Raw’s controversial reputation.
9: Foley introduces Socko – Great skit that really got Foley over as a babyface and showcased his personality. Vince’s reactions are priceless as well as the Austin attack the followed later in the episode.
8: ECW Invasion – The night ECW invaded the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York was a memorable one as the WWE gave us a taste of something different and gave us something unpredictable.
7: Kirk Angel vs. Some Guy in a Steel Cage – Probably the best Steel Cage Match of all time where the pill-popping guy who wears the mouthpiece, flaming singlet and white sneakers in TNA fought some other guy whose name we can’t mention. The Olympic Gold Medalist’s moonsault from the top of the cage is hard to watch, but amazing at the same time. He’s lucky he came out alive…
6: RAW is JERICHO – A great way to debut a great talent. Weeks of mysterious build-up with a millennium countdown led to verbal magic between Y2J Chris Jericho and The Rock. I loved every second of it.
5: HBK gauze Promo – an obnoxious Shawn Michaels shows up with his little biker shorts stuffed with gauze and proceeded to disrespect Jim Ross during the entire interview. Certainly one of the first tastes of the Attitude Era.
4: Foley Wins the Title – “Yeah, that’ll put butts in the seats”. Actually Schiavone it did. In fact, it was the night the ratings switched and WCW began its downward spiral. Very important evening to say the least. Can’t imagine what would have happened if JR ever said, “Our competition is having David Arquette win their World Title. Ha!”
3: Beer Truck – That was just fun. The Austin Era was in full effect and it gave the home and live audiences something to remember.
2: Rock: This Is Your Life – The highest rated segment in Raw History. You don’t cut The Rock off at 2nd base. Poontang your ass on outta here.
1: Raw/Nitro Simulcast – Uhhh… probably the single most important moment in Monday Night Wrestling history. Vince won the war and now they are alone at the top. Very nice.
Honorable Mention: Sable Topless (Lawler’s reaction = Priceless), Pillman pulls a gun, Lightning Kid pins Razor Ramon, HBK vs. Cena, Bischoff, Flair, Heyman and The Radicals (Saturn, Malenko, Guerrero and some guy) all showing up on Raw.
Vince Has No Shame Moments: Trish Barks Like a Dog, Katie Vick, Kiss My Ass Club, Choppy Choppy Yo PeePee, Mae Young’s Rubber Hand, Hawk’s Drunken Fall, “You’re illegitimate ya big nasty bastard!”, Tribute Show for that guy… ya know…, and last but not least, The Attitude Era.
-Winky
Saturday, December 8, 2007
The Ultimate Fighter Finale
First, let me say I LOVE THE FIGHTING! That's why I brought the blog idea. Cause we all (well I think we all I can't speak for Brady who likes no one.) like each other. But have VASTLY different ideas especially on wrestling. But I'm gonna step away from the drama and the feigned athletic competition. I'm gonna head on over to the world of MMA and talk about the The Ultimate Fighter Finale.
The card started off slow with Ben Saunders who really did nothing remarkable on the show other than being a tall string bean who threw head kicks... against Dan Barrera who is one of the most disrespectful idiotic fighters I've ever seen. This was one of the most boring fights I ever had the displeasure of watching Saunders won a decision or something.
Billy Miles jobbed to George Stepanoplis (or some spelling close to that).
Then fucking cock sucker Richie Hightower took on RUDE BOY I really don't know his real name but Rude Boy works for me. Good fight. I'm actually really surprised Hightower can go I had no respect or hope for him on the show. But he showed alot then a JAB dropped him a few hammer fists later Rude Boy wins one for Hawaiian fighters everywhere.
So Hightower and Rude warmed things up. Then Warmachine and J-Rock did battle in a fight that really came from a childish prank. War Machine gave J-Rock's toilet an upper decker where you shit in the top part of the toilet so all subsequent flushes are shit instead of clean water. This upset J-Rock and now they do battle in the octagon. AND DID THEY EVER These two mixed it up alot of heavy hands were thrown some good take downs and J-Rock was really getting the better of the match but he could not finish. In almost a WWE-esque Hulk Up with the crowd chanting his name: War Machine quickly took the mount in the later moments of the third round and dropped BOMBS on J-Rock winning via stoppage after the ref saw J-Rock's head bounce off the mat. THIS WAS THE FIGHT OF THE NIGHT. Now I don't always need brawls but a nice one is good every now and then and this was a lot better than the previous brawl. A lot more technical.
Mac "Gigantic Whiny Douche Bag" Danzig beat Tom "Seriously He's a Farm Boy" Speer in really a forgone conclusion. Danzig was clearly the best fighter on the show. It's a shame that he never went in there with Matt Arroyo or George Stepanopolis the only two fighters remotely close to his skill. So Dana White gets another unmarketable fighter in the UFC Huzzah. Two words Dana CHEICK KONGO! This guy's a beast and has a cool name make somethin of him.
Matt Arroyo faced Jon Kolosci decent fight Arroyo was just waaaaaaaay too skilled for Jon. Arroyo may not be as skilled as Danzig but he's more marketable and is close to his level as a fighter. Arroyo has a nice array of submission and he's only a BJJ brown belt. Hopefully Dana signs Arroyo to go along with War Machine and J-Rock. And I guess Stepanopolis who was just annoying.
Ya know that match of the night thing? It may be up in the air. The Main Event Roger Huerta vs Clay Guida... Who is known as the Carpenter. Right. This match was fucking awesome. I guess Huerta's whole thing is he's the first ever MMA'er to hold the cover of SI. That didn't stop Guida from using his face like a punching bag. You hardly ever see the Rocky defense work in anything other than Rocky. But after dominating the second round Guida got ROCKED in the third round and gave up his back after attempting a submission and Huerta won. What a fucking rally what a great fight. Two fighter I knew very little about shocked me and really delivered at the main event level.
UFC should wish their PPVs delivered like their free TV does. Much like TNA. But that's another story for another day.
Plus I just found out Roger Heurta's nick name is EL MATADOR... OLAY!
-Hack
The card started off slow with Ben Saunders who really did nothing remarkable on the show other than being a tall string bean who threw head kicks... against Dan Barrera who is one of the most disrespectful idiotic fighters I've ever seen. This was one of the most boring fights I ever had the displeasure of watching Saunders won a decision or something.
Billy Miles jobbed to George Stepanoplis (or some spelling close to that).
Then fucking cock sucker Richie Hightower took on RUDE BOY I really don't know his real name but Rude Boy works for me. Good fight. I'm actually really surprised Hightower can go I had no respect or hope for him on the show. But he showed alot then a JAB dropped him a few hammer fists later Rude Boy wins one for Hawaiian fighters everywhere.
So Hightower and Rude warmed things up. Then Warmachine and J-Rock did battle in a fight that really came from a childish prank. War Machine gave J-Rock's toilet an upper decker where you shit in the top part of the toilet so all subsequent flushes are shit instead of clean water. This upset J-Rock and now they do battle in the octagon. AND DID THEY EVER These two mixed it up alot of heavy hands were thrown some good take downs and J-Rock was really getting the better of the match but he could not finish. In almost a WWE-esque Hulk Up with the crowd chanting his name: War Machine quickly took the mount in the later moments of the third round and dropped BOMBS on J-Rock winning via stoppage after the ref saw J-Rock's head bounce off the mat. THIS WAS THE FIGHT OF THE NIGHT. Now I don't always need brawls but a nice one is good every now and then and this was a lot better than the previous brawl. A lot more technical.
Mac "Gigantic Whiny Douche Bag" Danzig beat Tom "Seriously He's a Farm Boy" Speer in really a forgone conclusion. Danzig was clearly the best fighter on the show. It's a shame that he never went in there with Matt Arroyo or George Stepanopolis the only two fighters remotely close to his skill. So Dana White gets another unmarketable fighter in the UFC Huzzah. Two words Dana CHEICK KONGO! This guy's a beast and has a cool name make somethin of him.
Matt Arroyo faced Jon Kolosci decent fight Arroyo was just waaaaaaaay too skilled for Jon. Arroyo may not be as skilled as Danzig but he's more marketable and is close to his level as a fighter. Arroyo has a nice array of submission and he's only a BJJ brown belt. Hopefully Dana signs Arroyo to go along with War Machine and J-Rock. And I guess Stepanopolis who was just annoying.
Ya know that match of the night thing? It may be up in the air. The Main Event Roger Huerta vs Clay Guida... Who is known as the Carpenter. Right. This match was fucking awesome. I guess Huerta's whole thing is he's the first ever MMA'er to hold the cover of SI. That didn't stop Guida from using his face like a punching bag. You hardly ever see the Rocky defense work in anything other than Rocky. But after dominating the second round Guida got ROCKED in the third round and gave up his back after attempting a submission and Huerta won. What a fucking rally what a great fight. Two fighter I knew very little about shocked me and really delivered at the main event level.
UFC should wish their PPVs delivered like their free TV does. Much like TNA. But that's another story for another day.
Plus I just found out Roger Heurta's nick name is EL MATADOR... OLAY!
-Hack
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)