WWE Fast Lane 2015

WWE Fast Lane 2015

Vroom Vroom! Get ya motors running! WWE is driving in the Fast Lane! Woooooo! Exciting! The Road to Wrestlemania just one month away looms. Who will travel the route? Will anyone return in time? Does anyone really care?

Live on Sunday 22^nd February 2015 WWE presents its first ever Fast Lane Pay Per View. Replacing the costly Elimination Chamber, emanating from the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee, could WWE’s new concept PPV really entice the audience before the supershow that is Wrestlemania? Or would it be an unfortunate throwaway event poorly booked at a moment’s notice built on one sole being as a weak attraction? The final question on many lips. Will Randy Orton finally return?

Lets find out... 

Tag Team, Six Man

Dolph Ziggler, Erick Rowan and Ryback Vs Seth Rollins, Big Show and Kane w/ Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury

Rollins and Ziggler started the match with back and forth from both. Rollins was then tasked to hep get Rowan over with a mighty backbreaker and bodyslam which was fair. Big Show soon took it to Rowan with a good outside kick to the thigh on Rowan. This worked for the big man as a capable power move. After Kane had a go Rollins was in as the crowd cheered for the fan favourites with an empty "Rowan" chant.

Rollins stopped Ziggler being tagged with a super charged kick off the apron excellently. Ryback was then quickly tagged in by Rowan to get one over on Seth for a bit. Unfortunatley Seth had to stumble to this lump of foolish meat but worked well to help him look bearable. It waas the same routine method for Ryback.

Rollins nailed a strong superkick on Ryback, who then cheaply kicked out on a two making Rollins look daft. Michael Cole overdid the "power!" when Ryback dropped a signature move on Rollins in an opportunistic moment from nowhere. 

Ziggler and Kane take it on now. Kane bashes into Big show at the apron and gets knocked down by Dolph for a two count. 

Dolph was then pummeled with a hard bump allowing Kane, Big Show and Seth Rollins to get the pinfall victory. The fans were bored and chanted "Randy Orton!" After two choruses, Randy Orton was released from backstage and appeared live! Randy is back! He took out The Authority with a bundle of shockingly good RKO's and almost got Rollins rope DDT'ed until Big Show saved Seth, with a little butt cleavage too on the save. :o

Goldust Vs Stardust

Idiotic lunatic Stardust entered the arena with a faint and empty entrance as always. Pure waste of time. Goldust said just before the match he was planning to beat and get his brother Cody Rhodes back by defeating silly Stardust. 

It was a back and forth start as both gained an upper hand start then stopped and went again. Great to see new and original content. Fans in the arena cheered for "Cody" to get him out of his lunatic trance as Stardust. Like it just happens like that. The fans at home however, where perplexed by the naffness of the drab, confusing rubbish going on, or not.

After a technical two and fro or no importance Goldust got a win out of nowhere. Goldust tried to shake hands again but Stardust simply left. Boring. At least it is done now. Let's leave it alone for good. Also a huge problem occurred when the ref was smacked as a botch instead. Oops. 

Backstage Stardust attacked Goldust as daddy Dusty Rhodes simply watched. It was a horrendous portrayal by Stardust. This character is never getting over. 

WWE Tag Team Championship

The Uso’s (c) w/ Naomi Vs Antonio Cesaro and Tyson Kidd w/ Natalya

After a double date gone wrong at dinner on Smackdown, which we were shown, Nattie finally supported Tyson tonight with applause as Naomi tried to tell Ty not to talk bad to Nat. Nat blamed Naomi for butting in on her relationship. Yeah. Keep ya beak out! 

It was a strong start with The Uso's and Kidd, then Cesaro coming in to keep effective control. Kidd continued to work down the leg of Jimmy Uso in a technical joy. Cesaro supported with his power moves and smooth glaze over the match. The Swiss beefcake threw a one legged swing on Uso before tagging in Ty to further wear down their opponent. Kidd was given ample time to show just how good he is, which he fully delivered on.

Kidd got some close two falls throughout. Blind tag was made a Tyson gets double teamed into a Samoan Drop. Cesaro saved the cover with a beefy Bulldog stop. Kidd soon changed the pace as the outside action was intense and quick as Tyson was slammed into the barricade by Uso as all four men were knocked down. A close count-out was broken as a supersplash on Kidd caused Tyson to counter for a near fall. Kidd then cleverly flipped Jimmy over into a sharpshooter as Jey saved the match to then fight Cesaro to the outside.

Another close fall by Kidd almost won the match in a tense piece of action. Superkick to face sends out Cesaro but Tyson Kidd smacks a swift kick to drop The Uso's and win the Tag Team titles with a three count victory. Such personality and passion was on show by all, but especially Kidd and Cesaro.

Face to Face Invitation

Triple H and Sting

Triple H invited Sting on Raw weeks ago, where Sting got the better of Triple H and accept his invitation. On a TV screen, in writing. Wow. Really impressive. As long as Sting gets the paycheck to go home again, right?

Triple H arrived to call out Sting. The silly crow noises on the video played as Sting entered to some drab music and an even lamer entrance. Sting couldn't even be bothered to make an effort to seem interested to be there. There was no personality whatsoever. 

He stared at Triple H. "My legacy is putting your legacy out of business" Triple H said as the main reason Sting was upset with WWE's The Authority campaign. "Failure is what you do" Trips added. Hunter tried to tempt Sting to getting his legacy back. Both could go into business together, Trips continued. Offering him all the spoils, merchandise, DVD's, the lot. Oooh. Even a Hall of Fame spot. Triple H went for Sting, who easily countered with a couple of punches. Triple H quickly got the better of Sting and beat him down in a second. "I gave you a chance!" Triple H shouted at the ignorant penny pincher Sting. Triple H grabbed a sledgehammer from beneath the ring a Sting had him face to face with a baseball bat. HHH dropped his hardware as Sting pointed to the Wrestlemania sign. This aint no Undertaker moment. The rip off character of Sting was a washout. He simply stood at Triple H with his bat. Eventually he jabbed Triple H in the gut with it. It was boring and empty. Sting did a Scorpion Lock as a backbreaker before leaving to go home with more money for his appearance with no words or importance, just like Survivor Series. Yawn.     

Divas Championship

Nikki Bella (c) w/ Brie Bella Vs Paige

Paige scrambled into Nikki as per usual ending in a run around scuffle on the floor. The crowd were regarded by fans watching at home as boring or cheap and easy for WWE's friendly people. Though the crowd were insanely silent for this one. Nikki took the lead with a chin lock as is often the procedure for WWE's dishonourable people. A close two fall afterwards from Nikki with a hard backdrop to the floor of Paige full body first. That was okay. Paige did the traditional same old routine of three mini clotheslines on the spot before screaming. It was uneventful and sad. 

Paige was talking to Nikki in the match saying "Come on Nikki" as guidance to wait for Bella to walk into spots with Paige, who failed to lead the match. Nikki Bella held a beautiful Sunset Flip from the corner and slammed Paige down perfectly. She got a close two count. Paige then randomly locked in the leg lock twist on Nikki which was ineffective. Nikki managed to make a rope break. Nikki Bella secured the Divas title after shoving Paige into the turnbuckle pad and rolled up straight-after. It was pretty cheap and tacky, but all Paige matches seem to be so. She had no place in title matches any longer. Even on the short stack, Paige has no depth. 

WWE gave an even more hilarious after showing. They installed a camera in the turnbuckle! Lol. A turnbuckle cam. 

We were also treated to the latest feature article of Muscle and Fitness Magazine where WWE CEO Mr. McMahon was on the cover showing off his impressive physique. Show off. 

Intercontinental Championship

Bad News Barrett (c) Vs Dean Ambrose

Barrett began the match with a regular lock up as he so often does. WWE are really phoning it in, huh? Barrett was given offense early int he match with heavy boot-legging kicks to Ambrose which wear cushioned and tame touching but laced the bout together for the start. Ambrose recovered with a DDT counter to buy some time.  

After some swift covers and counters which were okay, Ambrose continually relied on the 'almost tipped out of the ring but bounced back on the second rope comeback' spot too much taking away some legitimacy. Dean Ambrose would not stop attacking Bad News Barrett when he was down in the corner. The referee disqualified Ambrose for his actions meaning Barrett retains the gold. Ambrose then absurdly held the IC title in front of Barrett and said it was his. Why do that after an intentional DQ? Ridiculous. Ambrose then left with the title which made it all the more so poor and laughable. 

All of a sudden the lights dimmed to a purple haze as the druids came out to the eerie Undertaker lullaby music. Then came the gong. Taker's music played. A casket was wheeled out to the arena. From the casket comes... Bray Wyatt! 

After expressing his concerns, Wyatt challenged The Undertaker to a match at Wrestlemania. This is why 'Taker lost last year at 'Mania to Brock. Because he did not want to lose to the rip off version of the budget Undertaker in WWE, Sting. WWE would likely have done that if it wasn't Lesnar. Undertaker respected the business enough to realise a loss to Sting would have tarnished all of WWE and Undertaker fans' legacy. If they kept it unbroken till now, it could have made Wyatt. Though Undertaker losing to Wyatt is questionable but probable as it finally gives a new guy a chance. We shall see later. 

United States Championship

John Cena Vs Rusev (c) w/ Lana

Rusev vowed he would "Crush!" John Cena. The pair went for a test of strength initiated by Rusev as Cena avoided and tired to kick and punch instead. Cena hopped around on the spot like a boxing Kanagaroo. He then scored a cheap shot punch at Rusev's face and made a colossal miss in a mega botch that looked plainly pathetic. Not two minutes in, with Cena in the corner, the crowd chanted "Let's Go Cena/Cena Sucks!" Everytime Cena has a chance he ruins it for himself. Its always in the start of his matches too. Does he ever watch them back?

Rusev charged Cena off the ropes as Cena tapped his body to Rusev and jumped off, ruining the believably of the bash. Cena landed a magical dropkick out of nowhere bbut Rusev followed up with his own. Reckless Cena on a comeback almost pulled Rusev's pants down trying to pull himself up. That was plain idiotic. 

Rusev retained control with elbow drops and ground control. Cena was seen and heard talking the spots as usual but almost snared the title on a DDT for two. Lana encouraged Rusev. "Come on!" Rusev returned to dominance soon after. 

Rusev went to punch Cena who comically blocked it with ease and threw a limp club back. Cena did some more to take control with a five knuckle fall. Rusev recovered and mule kicked Cena in the mouche for a near three fall. 

Rusev easily stepped over Cena to give him an easy chance to get the leg lock but failed and was slammed with a whirl sideslam by Rusev instead. Cena got a magical DDT counter from above out of nowhere once more for a close count. It looked silly. 

Cena did a bundle of timed punches at Rusev which were extremely slow motion comedy meaning to be serious. Rusev was then locked into a STF submission by Cena which looked insanely weak. At any camera angle, Cena makes it pale and tepid as a serious submission. Rusev was ready to "Cruuuusssshhh!" Cena caught Rusev's leg in an easy foot in front trample to catch on for another no pressure STF hold. Rusev looked more like a sweet teddy bear than an bulging brute. Rusev managed to reach the rope to get free. 

Cena grabbed Rusev as he ran into an Attitude Adjustment and missed. Rusev countered as Cena grabbed a new AA and landed it for a close two fall. Rusev made the AA look good and Cena again ruined it with a jumpy pin cover in stupid fashion.

Cena missed a turnbuckle jump as Rusev pounced with the Accolyde. This looked intense. Cena made his stupid goofy bulging eyes and gritted teeth which is plainly laughable. Cena then lifted Rusev up as Lana stepped in, distracting the referee. Rusev nabbed a kick as a low blow to reapply the Accolyde on John Cena. Cena was then passed out from the intense submission as Rusev retained the United States championship. Lana was overjoyed and elated with gleeful cheer. Don't worry, Cena will win it back in 34 days. Cena then refused help and walked out of the arena, after waking up, not in pain at all. 

No.1 contendership to WWE World Heavyweight Championship

Roman Reigns Vs Daniel Bryan

The winner of this one will get the chance to battle ‘The Beast’ Brock Lesnar at Wrestlemania in a roughly months’ time. After winning the Royal Rumble in a weak and unsatisfying victory of non-importance, Reigns was convinced to challenge Bryan tonight. Were WWE listening to the fans? Or was it a measure to protect and build up Reigns as strong despite a neglect in fan appreciation? Either way WWE did not want another Batistagate circa 2014 on their hands.

The pair began with a lock up, the third of the evening, starting  a match. The pair tried a test of strength as Bryan got the upper start with a headlock. Reigns powered out instead following with a hard knock down to the mat of Bryan. Fans in the arena did not like that. 

Bryan came back with a smooth try of a Mexican Surfboard, blocked by a shriek and push off of Reigns with his powerful feet. 'Kay. Reigns regained control with a good sidewalk slam and clothesline to the outside. Reigns bashed Bryan into the outside barricade. Bryan locked in a cool inverted side twist leg lock. It was a short try as Reigns punched with ferocious yells. Bryan followed up with his kicks. A fan let out a "boo!" in the sound of a moaning sheep for a comical moment as Reigns attempted a comeback. 

It was a fair match which at east was equal for both men and hard for fans to call the outcome. Reigns did a running jump up feet dropkick to Bryan from the outside of the ring when Bryan was draped over it. Reigns failed a follow up Superman punch with a great gut kick by Bryan. Bryan flew three running dropkicks into Reigns with anticipation from the crowd. Bryan was in a precarious position caught up the top of the turnbuckle as Reigns hoisted Bryan up for a mega Powerbomb pin at a close two. 

Bryan was slapped for six by Reigns after on the other top post but Bryan came back, leaving nothing in it between the two. Bryan flung a superplex with poise for a two. He followed with a YES! Lock. Reigns broke it at the ropes. Bryan flung himself to the outside on Reigns twice to slow him down. Third times a charm until Bryan was caught and German suplexed outside. Reigns went for a damning Spear only for Bryan to move and shove Reigns into the steel steps for extra time. Bryan made the count as Reigns just jumped in at near ten. 

Bryan jumped from the top to be punched in the jaw by Reigns coming down. Bryan quickly kicked out at two though. As the Boo man continued, Reigns howled. Bryan got the better of Reigns with counters and huge dropkicks flooring Reigns for a tense two fall. Bryan smashed the YES! Kicks to crowd elation. The anticipation "Woooooo-h"'s missed as Reigns countered and the pair had a hot scuffle until Reigns was in Bryan's submission once more. Reigns simply turned around and broke free with ease to pummeled Bryan with fists. It made fans feel he was the John Cena clone again after such a decent chance at changing perceptions. 

After more tense action between the two from Reigns dropping another sit down Powerbomb, Bryan nailed a kick in Reigns head. Roman Reigns waited for Daniel Bryan to run to him and ran a Spear into Bryan to get the win and go to Wrestlemania with a clear three fall victory.

The fans were vocally displeased. Others were seen leaving the arena instantly in disgust and disbelief. That didn't go well then. To be fair, both put in an expert match together, though most of it was held together by Bryan, even though Reigns added his own to the match. Though when Reigns is really up against it with Brock Lesnar, for the big one, will he be exposed or can he go the distance and give a believable match worthy of world class proportions? That is the pedestal WWE has put him on and now he will have to deliver. This, however was Reigns best match to date for a long while. 

PPV Rating – 4/10

Men/Women of their matches – Seth Rollins, Goldust, Tyson Kidd, Nikki Bella, Dean Ambrose, Rusev, Daniel Bryan

Man/Woman of the PPV – Tyson Kidd

Replacing WWE’s annual Elimination Chamber PPV (because it was costing WWE too much money to store and lug around the Chamber itself) bred the new PPV instead. As a PPV, Fast Lane was dry and entered a rookie performance calibre. It did not look like a set of professional wrestlers at this point in time on a premier boosting card.

If Elimination Chamber stayed, it would have been the perfect time for Seth Rollins to feasibly cash-in and win the title from a beaten down Brock Lesnar to shock and drive prestige to the WWE title once more. This would also strengthen Brock’s position with intrigue and set Rollins on the path to a new and believable WWE future. This is also the problem addressed countless times. With no star names outside of John Cena, which audiences already lack faith in, WWE has failed to boost a new set of WWE stars. The results are this.

Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns have been earmarked to the changed event at Wrestlemania to now include Bryan in a triple threat with Lesnar and Reigns. Used as a precaution to protect Reigns from a baying level of boos, this won’t change the decision on Reigns unless WWE really improves its selection process with justification. Though the decision is welcomed for Bryan to join ‘Mania with Lesnar, WWE need to book it strongly or risk losing it all. No-one is truly sold on Reigns ad a title victory for Roman will destroy him, the title and WWE’s fanbase for a future of believable outlook.

The tag match was a great display from all talented members of both teams. The girls outside also did their parts. Cesaro, as we continually know, is way underrated. WWE are giving him another chance with a tag effort which Cesaro is really boosting the linage of once more. Is their nothing he can’t do? While WWE are planning a tit race, it should have and could still break Cesaro from Kidd and send Cesaro to the big leagues. For that he will also need his first name back. Vince McMahon thought he would be stronger if he lost it. Since then, he has dipped down the card by WWE officials in charge. As the third best worker of 2014, and way over with crows, Cesaro should be put back into full throttle. He was much better when he had his first name. Plus this would really launch Kidd on the platform he now has in mid-level status, alongside troubled wife Natalya.

Gold and Stardust was rushed and was done quickly which was necessary to play out here. Neither seem to have any real staying power as a team and as singles it wasn’t fantastic and simply average. No-one cares either way about ignorant bum Cody Rhodes. Goldust, maybe, but not overly. The match was empty.

Flunkie diva Paige, who has had nothing less than bungled title reigns given to her under a popularity clause by Triple H only to fall flat with no direction. Nikki Bella wasn’t much to talk about, but tried to improve, which is admirable. Upgraded due to minor fan popularity cheering for a new call up as smarks knowing what they are talking about proved WWE’s inane implementation. Caving to fan luvvies, Paige has been a diabolical mess in the ring and has no real qualities to speak off. All because ‘she looked alright on NXT.’ NXT is not the main roster, it is a cheap rookie’s playground currently infested with a wide majority of ignorance. This does not look probable for the future of WWE, should Triple H keep caving into pet projects that will fail. Ignorant bedfellows Owens, Kalisto, Crowe and Finn Balor won’t be the future WWE are hoping for. Though Finn Balor, if he shows enough repentance may have a chance at making it. Sami Zayn? Meh. A stuntman is not really looking probable at this time. We will have to see on those ones. As for the others WWE should cut their losses instead of calling them up to the main roster only to then release them after public failures of trying to getting over. Release them now and invest in newer talent (which is out there) on their freed up salaries. Fans won’t stick by things rammed down their throats when completely inadequate or illegitimate. Do it now.

John Cena and Rusev battled it up to predictable set up the main collision at Wrestlemania. The match was decent from Rusev’s efforts, but once again, Cena (who we desperately wish to say something positive about) still lacks any opportunity to turn his work around. He is not bothered on improving and his over-animation is forever alienating and embarrassing. No-one, even opponent, can ever be taken seriously. Hey, if Big Show can improve, surely you can, if you can be bothered?

What is going on with the cursed Intercontinental title? Bad News Barrett, or Bore-ette, was continually tiresome. So much so that it now jeopardises the position of Dean Ambrose. After stunning work with Bray Wyatt over the last months, Ambrose is in trouble (as we previously touched on) of becoming washed out and a boring, plus one. Ambrose has chances to go somewhere for WWE, but these weak and pitiful opponents with lacking strength and lunacy preceding the Lunatic Fringe himself, the direction is becoming costly.

The six man hash-together was simply a bore. It was once again epically held together by the powerhouse of skill that is Seth Rollins. Everyone else was a bit part, though Kane and Big Show put in efforts to assist well. Rowan is a mess with no character. Ryback is a nothing man that should just get his pink slip. No-one will ever truly be interested in this neander-fool. Dolph Ziggler however tried to make something for himself realising his career is nearing its end. While a handful f fans who cheer for Ziggs under the prospect of change and doesn’t want to lose it by admitting eventual defeat, Ziggler is stale. There is no denying this. You can blame WWE creative all you like, Ziggler has had his opportunities and they have now passed him by. He is WWE’s stand-in but that isn’t really any better. He truly is a non-entity at this point and it is clear it will not develop. It may be time to drop this flagging donkey. This horse will not go to water.

For WWE the Fast Lane PPV was dry. No fertile seeds where planted and the weedy roots are too scared to be plucked. No risks where pushed and concepts outdated. Outside of John Cena, WWE are pushing hard for all three ex-Shield members. Though only one is capable of greater things while the other two are rushed with disastrous results. One did tell you of this beforehand but the failure to listen has now been projected. This isn't smugness, but failure to listen and understand delivers this to you now. Seth Rollins is the underrated heavyweight contender capable to go the distance. Dean Ambrose is tired out and stalled. As for Roman Reigns, the big guy is still stuck in first gear incapable of getting to second. With no new stars and a lack of skill on offer in action fans wish to see a part of their ‘attraction’ events is not enough to influence an ever changing, more diverse product. Once again, the future for WWE could be bleak. While they don’t wish to admit that ever be a possibility, it has already been so dumbed-down by fan perceptions that the show is risking it all as a company. A real risk would be to get those who can really boost the company the way it needs, able to work WITH one another than AGAINST them. This is crucial business advice. Belee ‘Dat! Sort it out or get left behind.

Vrooooooooooooooom!

© Max Waltham 23^rd February 2015
All Rights Reserved

Seth Rollins nude photos leaked

WWE superstars have private

images hacked and exposed. 

How will WWE deal with it?

Earlier this week, WWE were engulfed in another media scandal with revelations from its superstars. Beginning this week, high-flying heavyweight Seth Rollins was subject to a nude photo leak scandal.

Rollins' fiancee Leighla Schultz released two nude pictures of Rollins full frontal along with an NXT diva called Zahra Schreiber. Schultz debated whether the two were having an affair and uploaded the snaps from Rollins' Social Media accounts exposing the images. She later admitted she was behind the leak. 

The accounts of superstars are linked to WWE's website and hosted the images as a result. Chairman Vince McMahon was said to be "livid" that it played out over Social Media. 

Fans feared Rollins' career could be in jeopardy after the drama unfolded. WWE have decided to support Rollins, who publicly apologised for the images.

"I would like to apologize to all the WWE fans and my family and friends for private photographs that were distributed without my consent."

- Seth Rollins, Twitter, 10 Feb 2015 

WWE have realised Rollins did not purposely upload the images and is said to have his professional life viewed separate from his personal misdemeanours. 

While it is unfortunate, Rollins was not responsible for the images being released and should face no punishment. Rollins, who was the best wrestler of 2014, also, number one in the Wrestling Wonders Pro 50 Wonder List, (click link here - Wrestling Wonders Pro 50 Wonder List Part 2 (25 - 1) has continue to remain professional. He also took responsibility which many do not do so afterwards.

As for the images themselves, which are not that upsetting on the grand scale of things, could threaten WWE's advertisers with their so called PG friendly image. While many can start questioning what has happened with the three involved, it is not our or fans' decision to personally judge their actions. Some fans have noted that Rollins' fiancee was only interested in shopping and never supported Rollins in his professional career. Their personal life has nothing to do with us and should be respected. Though at least we can be grateful for the released images, which, on the quietened surface, almost everyone a fan of the subjects were keen to see at some point. 

With an industry and an American-capitalist system that relies on selling sex to gain advertisers, why everyone freaks out about genitalia is somewhat more profound. Fans are more liberal these days and could not really care about private parts affecting a career of someone who can back up talent and entertainment in their line of business. 

Some fans also question how WWE could be so quick to possibly judge when the likes of Hulk Hogan and other stars have been welcomed back with open arms after public sex scandals of higher magnitude. 

Regardless, the images are not that damaging to WWE. Once the storm quietens, fans will continue to respect Rollins' in ring work and his beautiful, somewhat majestic features as well. As the future of the company and the sport, Rollins should continue to give his work as he has done and WWE should continue onwards. He shouldn't be made to feel ashamed for something that was beyond his control. What happened to John Cena anyways when he nearly tweeted his nether regions off with a torso pic near the waistline? 

As Triple H once famously said "I don't care what goes on in their bedrooms" in reference to WWE superstars and their private lives. 

The timing, however, couldn't be worse as Triple H appeared on the Stone Cold podcast two weeks ago, revealing former ex girlfriend Chyna could not come into the WWE Hall of Fame due to her adult career. Joanie Laurer gave a candid and revealing podcast interview on Vince Russo's on Monday which claims she was a victim of domestic violence in the relationship at the hands of Triple H. Triple H has since denied the allegations. 

Rollins' fiance Schultz has since declared herself as single online. 

WWE, which likes to gain specific media news stories, often leaked by themselves at times, have now faced a backlash. Numerous media outlets picked up the story. If WWE weren't too focused on 'showing off' to media sources for buzz, damage could have been limited.

Rollins however may pay a fine for these actions. McMahon feels someone should be held responsible and since Rollins' social accounts were the source of controversy, he should receive a fine. Triple H is said to be against fining Rollins. Many insiders feel Rollins, who is Mr. Money in the bank and guaranteed a world title opportunity may have been stalled as a result. Rollins was due to hold his opportunity until June, before it expires and become World champion, which may now see Rollins wait longer. 

As far as we can see it, Rollins should be pushed forward for the title regardless. He is the future and WWE have invested a lot of time. It is unfortunate but Rollins will be respected for his wrestling achievements and not his bedroom activities. This incident changes nothing to his rigorous professionalism and respectful attitude to the fans. 

Depending on how you look at it, erm, Happy Valentine's Day. :o More trouble than its worth. 

© Max Waltham 12^th February 2015

Roman Reigns and the Rumble fallout. Why is the WWE Universe so mad?

The Royal Rumble fallout with Roman Reigns. Why was it so wrong and can WWE get it right on retraction? 

Roman Reigns won the Royal Rumble match, and with it caused immense upset. WWE miscalculated the effect it would be expecting with 'the normal’ overreaction from fans failing to get their way then caving into normality afterward. This wasn't it.

Has WWE lost its touch with fans? To an extent yes, but not overall. Yet all is also salvageable.

Fans accept it is not Reigns fault and there is no personal displeasure with Reigns, but fans concern is that he is not ready. He isn’t. WWE are not backing down and hopeful it can work with the John Cena hard push that launched that very star years ago. Ah, hope. Recently mocked by WWE  upon advice is now their main support. Therein lies the problem. Roman Reigns as John Cena number two, on an already negative reaction, will have catastrophic future outcomes should this continue. Roman Reigns could be the second John Cena with disastrous effects. WWE really do need to reassess.

WWE’s priority is the WWE Network. They have not been shy about that either. Fine. Though the stars that drive the content are needed to please fans, and when there is not that in place, there is a problem needing to be rectified. 

WWE get confused with fickle fans. The stock for WWE drastically declined after the Royal Rumble pay per view. The following Monday’s Raw, initially cancelled, then postponed, which later aired, caused a rise. The format was forced to change. Fans were interested to see how WWE would get around a real crisis on its hands affecting programming and turning a positive in response. They did so and they needed little tools to achieve it. They could have held off of the repeats, but at short notice, what can you do? Even so, it worked out. Though fans have unsubscribed and crashed WWE’s Network in its millions. The company boasted one million subscribers early this week, met with scrutiny with numbers. Many felt WWE either misrepresented those numbers or instead counted overall figures. Stock on Thursday was at roughly 912 instead of a million. WWE have been known to lie about attendance at PPV's, especially Wrestlemania sellout crowds. Fans don't feel trusting any longer.

So, what is WWE doing so wrong and why such a tremendous upset with fans they could not envisage as serous to future company progression?

The problems

Brock Lesnar and the WWE title have not been defended for months on programming and stalled until Royal Rumble. Lesnar gave one of the greatest matches and defined his role as a credible champion. Though his credibility was undermined by his absence at the height of WWE where fans quietly preserved but felt they missed out along the way. The top title needs to be at the top of its game for WWE fans.

The creative team/WWE management tension is another problem fans are mildly becoming furious with on the surface. The direction and mishaps on programming, mostly Raw, with no logic or understanding is driving a tiresome product for fans.

The true stars are sidelined. The stars fans want to see rise for the good of the product and not their own way is another issue. They want Antonio Cesaro, Bray Wyatt and others. The plain Jane’s in Barrett, Ziggler and The Miz aren’t the future any longer. They were three years ago. Some fans hold out hope for Ziggler not for skill or want, but because he is their measly last hope and has been transferred into the fan role of CM Punk. Desperately hoping he would be the next change is ludicrous but there as fans final attempt at change. Though WWE know Ziggler is not going to materialise big time and fans contained support over the top in ungracious want drives WWE further apart from non business minded fans. When they finally got Ziggler’s push, it was underwhelming and fans don’t know what to do now. Their stars are not being utilised correctly or at all. They want the Sandow’s and Axel’s to come up as well. They want big men too, but Roman Reigns, Cena, Big Show and the blubber’s with little talent are not what they need. Resentment settles when too much is dismissed. Some blame CEO Vince McMahon for his 1980’s approach to big bulk size and six foot requirements. Fans will like one of those if they have the talent and skills. This current era is the most difficult and pressured than Attitude, 80’s or any other era to breakout. Though in those days they had risks taken and new stars were thrust into the chance of limelight, even if they failed. WWE can still protect them, but it needs to be constant and firm with backup.

Daniel Bryan not winning wasn’t the problem here. The fact that someone who was not at all over on Reigns and is struggling to connect with the audience on a wider scale and WWE’s failure to accept it caused problems. No-one could appreciate it. They don’t want their time spent wasted on a weak concept going forward. If WWE feels this is a power game unwilling to buckle to fans, who want WWE to listen to their concerns legitimately, WWE has a big problem coming at Wrestlemania. As much as Reigns is wanted, he can’t carry WWE, even if he really wishes to do so.

Take this example then. Can Reigns, if say a crisis occurred where all the lights and everything conked out, but the match in-ring was still on-going. Could Reigns work and lead this match to a natural and think on the spot direction? The answer is no. His logical call up from NXT was superb. With Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins, who set NXT to new levels of excitement in their stay beforehand, Reigns was protected. Now, alone, Reigns is isolated. Family interjections will not support but only further alienate him. Reigns, now given the golden ball, must work to the standard on his own. Therein is the immense pressure given at short notice.  It is highly unlikely that the hard push for Reigns is going to be accepted within two to three months. WWE is said to be adamant not to buckle to its Universe's pressure for fear of looking weak. The same weakness that will occur by not taking restorative action. 

Reigns has moderate to weak vocals, promos and in-ring talent on his own. He can’t be in multi-matches for too long. It is an unfair pressure that shouldn’t be on his shoulders yet. A year in the making will be for Reigns. Though WWE often give an out of nowhere push but has no backbone to it that fails to be anything other than stiff. Stars need this boost but so often the wrong ones are selected at certain times of haste than logical patience.

What Now?

So is the problem the old coot at Titan Towers? No. Is it the son in law who is trying to find his prowess running a pet project for WWE footing? No. Though the pair need to understand audience better than simply shrug it off. With The Network even more crucially necessary to success upon it, WWE have to have better relations. Will you give into all the fans having silly Sami Zayn matches every week doing “all that flippy sh*t?” No. Though you can put your people forward while making new areas slightly appealing. Not everyone can be pushed, but the selection process must be more than, 'yeah, him.' 'He looks good.' Isolated, without the skills and minimal opponents to cross the bridge to Wrestlemania against the massive beast Brock Lesnar, who is unstoppable, Reigns is stumbling at the brick wall. How will such a lukewarm smiler finding it difficult to be a subtle tough guy beat The Beast, if at all?

Fans will accept a legitimate choice, not a rushed selection with no stability behind it. If WWE do not plan to remove Reigns from the battle, and it doesn’t want yet ‘another’ Triple Threat ‘Mania event, it needs to act soon. Failure to alter the decision will then require a third man at Wrestlemania. Either way, whatever the outcome, Roman Reigns will become the John Cena version 2. This means he will never recover from Wrestlemania and instead of being WWE’s new future pick at company guy, he will become boo’ed and hated forever. WWE know exactly how they pushed Cena and are doing exactly the same way with Reigns. Cena has been tarnished then, now and forever. A future beyond Reigns' control such not take the same blind or arrogant approach for ego's sake. His hard earned success will not be respected because he never worked for it and cannot back it up to fans either. Reigns will be the guy forever a future prospect tarnished for his entire career instead. That is serious for a) WWE, b) it’s future and c) the Network sales. This would be the best for business, Roman Reigns and the long-term protection of a future star, simply not yet ready. Tweak the event and drop Reigns. Patience is a virtue.

© Max Waltham 31st January 2015
All Rights Reserved

WWE Royal Rumble 2015

WWE Royal Rumble 2015

WWE has fallen back into its uncomfortable position once again where it has a small pick of stars rather than a selection of multiples. Still failing to launch any real new stars and letting the ones made slip down (some beyond WWE’s control) the company need to re-establish more than just one. There were only two real options to win the Royal Rumble. Randy Orton and Antonio Cesaro. With WWE’s drop of Cesaro it would be highly unlikely they would give him the ball to run with. Though that is exactly what they must do to launch him again. He has the skills, look, body and vocal depth given strong booking and character building. A win from the Rumble would be the starting point he needs and what the Rumble essentially is there for, to build a new star. WWE had considered its options. For WWE it could be Daniel Bryan, Dolph Ziggler, Dean Ambrose or Roman Reigns. The only viable name was Daniel Bryan, and is way too obvious that it would not make the Rumble as meaningful as it should be. Therefore Bryan is out. Orton is the only choice left. Building to a Seth Rollins as champion defence over Orton at Wrestlemania is the best way forward for WWE. Would it agree?

WWE presented its Royal Rumble Pay Per View live on Sunday 25^th January 2015 from the Wells Fargo Centre in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With the multi-man mega match that can start a career and guarantee a Wrestlemania title match, could WWE use this to better its future stars? Or would it revert to the same old formula of adding lost momentum back to an already comfortable WWE star? What of the supporting card itself? Can all work in unison whilst a red hot Triple Threat could drop the mighty beast Brock Lesnar and maybe crown Seth Rollins as WWE’s newest champion? The Road to Wrestlemania starts now. Let’s find out…

Tag Team

The Outlaws Vs The Ascension

Since their debut, The Ascension seem to have soured. WWE officials have lost respect and upset over their attitude whilst being out of shape. The pair, a necessary call up for WWE, at the time, did look washed up. This wasn’t their finest hour and has sadly lost respect. All are trying to hold a positive outlook but only the team can make that change now. To help the newbie’s WWE called back a favour from ageing tag team The Outlaws, Mr. Ass and Road Dogg.

The New Age Outlaws, still classed by fans as Old Age wore Philly crocodile type hats. It wasn’t a good start to boost Philly as intended.  “Ladies and Gentleman” began the old age address. It needs new legs or simply not be bothered with again. That’s a fair statement of address.

The Ascencion entered with face paint of The Road Warriors with a mix of Demotion which the pair had constantly referenced beforehand. WWE replayed the previous Raw in which the new team were hammered down on Raw Reunion by the veterans including JBL. This wasn’t the best boost to them even if they have some odd look once perceived as intriguing.

“You still got it” chants were so obvious and began before Mr. Ass even did anything. This is what makes a tiresome tirade of WWE and its audiences which neglects programming being one step above. 

The Ascension made work of the opponents with quick tags and slow beatdowns. It was a very brief match where The Ascension gained their first major victory after Konnor blind tagged in and the pair leg swept down Mr. Ass of The Outlaws for the starting victory in a poor but starting feast of the PPV thrill. It was decent selling at least but thoroughly underwhelming.

Steph and Trips had a chat as to how the “nobody” Sting could get into the “house of McMahon” Steph added. It wasn’t a WCW house, she mentioned. Mr. Heyman entered for a chat. Steph wasn’t happy for the intrusion. Paul claimed to solve a problem in John Cena. His solution, Brock Lesnar, was offered to the McMahon’s front of house in dealing with Sting as well as Cena beforehand. Hmmm…

WWE Tag Team Championship

The Usos (c) Vs The Miz and Damien Mizdow

Mizdow was heavily cheered on entry. Jimmy Uso and Miz began as Jey took the changeover. The Uso’s put in a lot of effort tonight, as before, though Sandow’s mimickry was king. The Miz saddled on the turnbuckle hurt with Mizdow’s responses where thrilling throughout. Miz missed a back breaker with no visible connection in a pitiful and carried piece of action as Mizdow begged for the tag. Miz pulled his hand away from ‘dow to come in. Jey continues the dominance of the match decently. Some hot and crazy aerial action swift and thrilling took everyone down with fun filled moments.

The Uso’s missed a splash as The Miz took a cheap Skull Crushing Finale to get a close two count only. Mizdow broke up a pin attempt after a flying move as Mizdow then drops his own, br performed, Skull Crushing Finale. The Miz crawls over for a cover to get a tense two fall again.

Powerbomb and splash from The Uso’s in a quick corner interchange allowed them to retain the WWE tag Team Champions over The Miz and Damien Mizdow.

The kick-off panel was introduced with an enthusiastic come nearly annoying Renee Young. She tries we give her that. They showed the kickoff match which saw The New Day Vs Antonio Cesaro, Tyson Kidd and Adam Rose to be relegated to the Pre-Show. Tyson Kidd won after Cesaro smashed a beautiful uppercut to Kofi from the outside.

Sexy chipmunk Jaime Noble asked what Joey Mercury was doing. He was playing and plugging the new WWE game. Both in the changing rooms, neither were still in their tights as Seth Rollins told them off for not concentrating on the future of WWE, him winning tonight’s Heavyweight gold.

Tag Team

Paige and Natalya Vs Brie Bella and Nikki Bella

Another tag match was in place, this time for divas. Avoiding a defence of her title, Nikki Bella, who made it up with sis Brie thanks to the win months ago, have now set their sights on Nattie and Paige. The flunkie diva Paige, who continually gets lucky than skill, put in another pitiful performance. Carried by Nattie, who is sadly troubled by her ignorant uncle Bret, failed to live up to the hype. 

Both Paige and Natalya entered rather awkwardly as a pair after Nattie tried to make Paige meaningful.

Flunkie Paige started the action with Nikki Bella, current Divas champion. Both used arm wrench moments as Nattie was brought in. Natalya added some much needed technique to the battle but was a little off in smoothness. Brie was double teamed with a suplex as Paige performed a strange lesbian seduction pin over Bella which was not tastefully done. Brie took the upper hand over Natalya after. Fans got bored and the Brits, maybe for real or metaphorically, were in. “Ole Ole Ole Ole…” It was a weak and watered down match, though passable for current divas standard today, which is very troublesome overall.

It was as pale as The Bella’s attire, which suited them. The attire that is. Nikki wore down Nattie with leg locks and technique. A quick change of things caused Nattie to lose a tag opportunity to moany squealer Paige as The Bella Twins (aka The Bellas) smashed Nattie in the face with a fist from Nikki to claim a three fall victory. It was too long, which is ironic since WWE only give long time to females when the card is rather slim. It needs time and capable people allocated to it. There are more than enough capable of making WWE divas rise again. It’s whether WWE can really be bothered.

Paige, from a bad cow to a lovely lady, was kept protected from too much exposure as a rubbish wrestler. Why? Well, there is a WWE Network to launch in the UK, isn’t there? It only went live over the last two weeks. WWE pushed it hard, including a Stephanie McMahon press interview and a general one adding the Network was WWE's priority.

Roman Reigns was the first to have his “I am the One” promo to win the Rumble match. "Believe that" he said. Then came the idiotic nutjob Stardust with Goldie banging on about celestial stars which was embarrassing to any astrologer watching. Rusev added he would crush anyone. The Miz and Mizdow banged on about it with more gibberish. Big Show said he was an angry giant. Oooh. Sweet rose Fandango teased a win with Rosa Mendes. Good Luck lovely. Beardy Daniel Bryan pointed his fingers upward for his statement to do the Wrestlemania victory all over again. I dunno…

WWE World Heavyweight Championship

Triple Threat

Brock Lesnar (c) w/ Paul Heyman Vs John Cena Vs Seth Rollins

How to initiate this rematch as fans jokingly presumed was an obvious WWE decision waiting to happen? So Brock wins, Cena gets the Rumble victory and Rollins cashes in? A Wrestlemania rematch? Done, right?

'The Beast' Brock Lesnar was heavily cheered. They knew it was about to go down. Cena wasn't. Seth had optimism. Lesnar went straight for Rollins who was chased out the ring as Cena got a German Suplex slam. He got another and then J and J Security got double suplexed as one. It was Brock and Seth. Mmmm. Seth got his suplex from behind by the beefy brute Brock. Brock flung them all around like WWE’s action figures. Pleasure is pain, so they say. Fans chanted a nonsense chant of ECW when Brock was near Cena. No-one has been in ECW. Heyman doesn’t count. He’s the manager. Brock was the new age ECW(ish) and therefore irrelevant. 

Seth Rollins dropping down on Lesnar trying to F5 Cena turned the match around a little as Cena Attitude Adjustment’ed Lesnar! Rollins caught a quick pin at one. Rollins running dropkicked Brock at the outside ringside into the steel steps. Instantly Cena was booed as he ran the inside ropes with Rollins. Because he was Cena? No. Because he instantly tapped Rollins with a weak and nonsense sell with no care to wrestling. Sloppy. Brock returned as Rollins took control.

Cena put in a pathetic clothesline of Brock which caused more indifference. Lesnar spun an F5 on Rollins from a top dive down as Cena was very late in breaking up the pinfall at a close two and a half. Brock began dismantling the Spanish announce table aggressively. Cena magically got  three AA’s on Lesnar, playing possum. Rollins smashed a curb stomp on Brock for a close two to three win fall. Rollins' Curb Stomp was perfectly taken and performed with Lesnar very professionally.

Oh No! Cena charged from behind bursting Lesnar through the breakaway partition at the barricade corner. Poor Brock. Sweaty beasyy babe Brock was slammed into the steel steps by Cena as Heyman legged it before them as Brock was flung behind him. That was comical and well done with believability by Heyman yet again. Cena tapped the steel steps on Lesnar to simply push him back onto the table unconvincingly.

Rollins came back and had a moment to fly on Brock and smashed the high placed flying elbow perfectly in smooth time and accuracy sending Lesnar straight through the table on impact. Cena returned to take Rollins back inside for a two fall only. Rollins booted Cena in the chin who failed to sell by putting his hand over his jaw beforehand. It was another Cena moment that distances audiences when he has a chance to be better. The guy doesn't seem to care about his in ring action.

Sloppy hands and touches next up top from Cena as Rollins reverse flips and running powerbomb’s Cena into the diagonal turnbuckle pad for a quick two count.

Cena locked on a cheap and easy leg lock STF as Rollins stood in front of him. The J and J security duo came in to stop Cena. The rules, stipulated at the start, make this legal. Submission or pinfall only. EMT’s arrive to wheel off Lesnar as J and J help Seth triple powerbomb Cena.

Brock is down and super sweaty. Seth readied his briefcase as Cena AA’s him over the ropes. Cena double AA’s J and J together as one. Then Rollins gets one. It’s a two fall! Oooh. Tension.

Lesnar is down and Michael Cole informs he has “at least a broken rib” Damn, is this for real? Is Brockie really hurt? Please be okay. 

Cena and Rollins continue the hot action in the ring as Rollins continues close falls and swift skills. Rolllins launched a perfect corkscrew 450 twist down on Cena from amazing height jumping above the turnbuckle downward. That was exceptional. Rollins gets a suplex from a sneaky returning Lesnar. Rollins is caught by a strong and swift F5 slam as Brock Lesnar covers and retains the gold over Seth Rollins and John Cena as WWE World Heavyweight Champion in what become an absolute stunner for the starting year. 

Royal Rumble
The Miz, R-Truth, Bubba Ray Dudley, Luke Harper, Bray Wyatt, Curtis Axel, The Boogeyman, Sin Cara, Zack Ryder, Daniel Bryan, Fandango, Tyson Kidd, Stardust, DDP, Rusev, Goldust, Kofi Kingston, Adam Rose, Roman Reigns, Big E, Damien Mizdow, Jack Swagger, Ryback, Kane, Dean Ambrose, Titus O'Neil, Bad News Barrett, Antonio Cesaro, Big Show, Dolph Ziggler

The Miz (1) takes on R-Truth (2). It’s like the Rumble of the previous years and numbers one and two don’t seem to count anymore. Same guys in literally the same spot. Number (3) was the nostalgic and homophobic piece of trash Bubba Ray washed up Dudley. There is no place for this old has been in recent WWE. Seriously. It was rather embarrassing. He did the legs open headbutt with R-Truth. WWE's lame attempt to get a quick buzz in a hometown was sad pandering at its very best. It did nothing for the product. 

Nostalgia playing its part for one minute won’t make a success of old age WWE in new age era. At least Bubba can continue to make porn films, maybe for WWE. That's not PG. The Miz was thrown out instantly. As Luke Harper (4) joins, Bubba quickly dumps R-Truth.

The bloaty boys went at it. Out comes Bray Wyatt (5) as Bubba stares him down. Harper assists former leader Wyatt. Bubba was quickly dumped out by Bray. Wyatt and Harper one on one baby! In comes Curtis Axel (6) in time as a rock in hard place. No! Erick Rowan charges from behind and bashes Axel at the titantron ramp. Rowan, who is not an official entry returns to the match as he and Harper agree to turn on Bray. Harper tricked Rowan as he goes for him with Bray instead. Rowan bashes the pair of them. Bray dumped out Harper with Rowan during the chaos unfolding between the two. 

Eh? It’s The Boogeyman (7)!!! The local and always relied on for a Rumble spot in recent years was good usually but tonight's booking was somewhat off. Bray was enjoying the weird partnership also enforcing with his crazy crab. Boogey charged into Bray and got eliminated instantly. Well, that was worth it. Sin Cara (8) joins now. Sister Abigail joined to hurt and dump out Cara easily. Bray then sent an “Open Invitation” to all in the back on the mic before singing the whole world in his hands melody. Zack Ryder (9) returned. HaHaHa! Wyatt flung Ryder out after his moment. Daniel Bryan (10) made the Rumble get a little bit serious. Bryan’s hair was down like a woman’s. Blimey it was like Last of the Mohicans meets Xena! Bryan unleashed his runs and knees on Wyatt as the Brit fan moments “Whoaaaaaaa’ed” in anticipation. Fancy fraternising stud Fandango (11) went for Bryan with hard throwdown. Bryan clouted Fan-D with a boot and a whirl atop shoulders spin before trying to tip over the ropes. Fandango held his own, whilst with no fancy tights on. The budget has been downsized. Next to enter was Tyson Kidd (12). It seems WWE has forgotten about the still existing entry not yet entered formally but still acceptable in Curtis Axel. They will probably just let it go. Next was cosmic lunatic Stardust (13). It was poor so far as a match. Stardust failed to drop Fandango who held on to the ropes as did 'dust on reverse comeback from Fandy. Tyson Kidd was eliminated by Bryan with an overlifting running elimination which was trying to establish some pleasing parts which became forgettable. Bryan ran at Wyatt as the pair landed on the outside through the middle ropes, therefore not out.

The legend spot was fulfilled with some old yoga bloke DDP (14). He came in a vest and jeans. All is forgiven Val Venis. I wish they would have booked Meat. DDP did nothing important. 

Rusev (15) came next as DDP was rightly worried. Rusev nailed him with a foot as DDP went out instantly. Thanks for coming, cheque’s in the post. Fandango was then dumped. Rusev and Wyatt stare down as Bryan drops down on both following with YES! Kicks to the chest. Bryan was then double teamed in retaliation. Bryan stayed in as Bray quickly charged him off the apron to huge boos! Rahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!! It was a neccessary and logical elimination and by Wyatt too. 

Though all thanks to blabbermouth Jim Ross trying to predict Bryan will win cost the YES! man to become a resounding NO! If you’re sixty years old, you should probably just leave.

Goldust (16) came out next. He then slapped Stardust after a miscommunication. Stardust was nearly dropped. Fans cheers “Let’s go Bryan” who was eliminated three minutes ago.

Kofi Kingston (17) came out as Philly booed big time at the New Day theme. Fans felt a distinct air or potential racism. The group is built on an all black gospel choir style gimmick. Wyatt almost dropped Kofi twice. Kofi came back to do some theatrics and the crowd hated him. Ouch. “Let’s go Bryan” still rang. The guy is out. Deal with it!

Looney tune Adam Rose (18) came in next with his dumb crew. Kofi got eliminated only to be caught on The Rosebuds, who put him back in. This was the stupid spot for Kofi as is every year booked in his name. Kofi is desperately trying to be taken seriously, but WWE are costing it with the funny moments overriding his skill on offer. The stupid idiots then failed to protect Adam Rose who was eliminated seconds after by Rusev. Hah! Kofi then left by Rusev next. It was very sad to see these daft moments that devalued the Rumble from being greater than it could.

Roman Reigns (19) was up next and instantly booed. It’s fair to say he’s not over and won’t be by April. Reigns cleared house and looked unbelievable as he dropped both Gold and Stardust. The boo’s were as severe as Cena’s constantly ringing without any break. This is bad.

Even worse was the next New Day theme guy Big E (20) who was not cheered. It's not going well.

Next in was Damien Mizdow (21) who was enormously cheered, where The Miz stopped him and told him he would take his place. Mizdow slapped him down and took to the action as Rusev sent Mizdow out. That was his moment. Reigns stomped Rusev to heavy boo's again. They were louder every second Reigns moved or was the focus of the camera. 

In at (22) was Jack Swagger. Nothing notable happened. Ryback (23) came in with a slow paced nothing entry. Rusev lunged at him as Ryback was allowed to drop him and all the bigger men. O,kay….

Number (24) was Kane. Fans had enough and chanted “CM Punk.” Dean Ambrose joined at (25) instantly caught by Bray Wyatt. He then took on Rusev and Kane. He did some flying moves. Titus O’Neil (26) came in and was instantly removed by Ambrose and Reigns which was botched badly and didn’t dump over. Vince must be pissed at this. It was laughable and not in a good light. 

Bad News Barrett (who?) joined as (27) to no effect. Antonio Cesaro (28) joined the match as Cole said “was a dangerous position” and likely to win. Hmmm….

Cesaro dropped a smooth uppercut and then tried to dump Ambrose with good interaction.

Big E was randomly dropped by Rusev. Big Show returned as number (29). Ryback was easily toppled over and Swagger followed. The last entry was Dolph Ziggler at (30). He ran into Big Show and Kane and had a moment. So, where is Randy Orton, who was supposed to return and possibly win, and why has Curtis Axel not entered? Oh dear…

Cesaro swings Ziggler wonderfully now. He then topped Ziggs over who still does his yesteryear hold on moments. It’s all a bit sad really. Get some new material. 

Ziggler caused more upset on the apron by superkicking Cesaro off the ropes. Well that achieved nothing new. Make sure its a fan favourite who does it to hope the audience forgets it being a big upset. Trying to be too clever can have its awkward comebacks. Ziggs was KO punched by Show from the turnbuckle down. Bye.

Ziggler was easily dumped by Kane and Show. What a waste of Cesaro this truly was. He could have won and made WWE really shine, but WWE are still in a land of neglect on this front.  

Bray Wyatt was then dumped over like lumber. Fans were livid. It wasn't even a proper moment or build up. It was the final four! Ambrose, Reigns, Show and Kane. Eh? This is it?

Ambrose was chokeslammed by Show and then easily dumped over the ropes as fans really booed now over WWE’s Rumble direction than stars. “Bullsh*t!” they yelled. For once, they were right.

All three final men were met with indifference. I bet Curtis Axel doesn't seem so bad now, huh?

After Kane tried to dump Reigns, Show went for Kane. Both went at it as Roman Reigns so cheaply tipped both the guys over the top rope in the most pitiful win ever. It was meaningless and had no emphasis on it. It was basically like when your film or DVD just kind of stops for a minute, then re-starts with a missed blip you instantly forget about. Only this is meant to be a new superstar in the making. Oops...

After the elimination both Kane and Show return to double team Reigns. OMG! The Rock returned to help his cousin Roman Reigns. Not even basking in a victory and requiring a family guy to help, Reigns was still viciously booed. Nothing could save him now, not even The Great One. Rusev then magically comes back in. What is all this disjointed flurry? So Rusev wasn't eliminated? Fans then decided to cheer for the anti-American baddie to win. Talk about a monumental f**k up. 

After a running charge, Rusev was tipped over the ropes by Roman Reigns, who is finally declared the winner, even though Curtis Axel never entered and is still legitimate. What an utter disaster. Will there be a re-start?

Brock Lesnar watched on a screen backstage with Paul Heyman. The Rock cuddled Reigns in victory as the crowd was pissed. Rock was visibly confused and shocked that his appearance to endorse his cousin was not met with favour. Fans cheered Rocky and boo'ed Reigns. Ouch.

Out come Stephanie and Tripper now with faces like thunder. The match did not re-start and Curtis Axel is not only owed a Wrestlemania match entry but a re-start. Fans at home regarded it as the worst ever in Royal Rumble history for its handling. Some even believe this was another of Triple H’s doing to make ‘his choice’ work. Added to the basket of Paige, Sin Cara and Kharma as failed concepts, WWE looks awkward going forward for 2015. Oh dear, oh dear…

To top it all WWE Superstar JUSTIN GABRIEL is alleged to have quit WWE over the weekend, announced before the Rumble PPV. Sadly, Gabriel wasn't going anywhere in this company and is said to have been frustrated. It was likely he would be sent packing soon in the new year Network purse lightening. 



PPV Rating - 2/10


Men/Women of their matches - Road Dogg, Damien Mizdow, Natalya, Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt 



Man/Woman of the PPV - Roman Reigns

WWE mucked it up again, and so with it the buy rates. So out of touch is the WWE that with a choice they think can boost revenue for its Network, has actually been the opposite. Reigns is too weak to raise those numbers so quickly. WWE need to re-evaluate and prioritise promptly. Reigns is not it. At least, not yet. The sales and stock are now even more likely to decrease after Royal Rumble put on a poor show which had the potential to be great.

WWE could and should have developed a range of new and growing stars while pushing the new kids closer to achievable fan acceptance. Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt, Antonio Cesaro, and even Dolph Ziggler should have been steered towards a better way. Ziggler isn't going to make it but could find something to do to bide time. As for the others they were more over as potentials to win than Roman Reigns. It is the highest of unfair pressure to place on Reigns as he, as we have said before, is entirely unready for the spotlight. 

Fans indifference to Reigns was not down to the myth that Daniel Bryan was eliminated. Bryan's elimination was logical and needed. It was done right and he should not have won. Though he needed strong booking to continue his opponents in the future.

Triple H has always wanted Roman Reigns. Vince McMahon is now said to be personally overseeing Reigns as scriptwriter and his development as the next WWE star. He even wrote him a nursery rhyme on Raw weeks prior to the Rumble which fans expressed wa snot the way to go. WWE defiantly refused to acknowledge and pushed hard over the fans directions. The fallout was terrible. Triple H is basically running WWE with Vince's guidance. The pair decided to let Vince be in full charge tonight but use Triple H's selection for the future. Both got it so, so wrong. While they didn't like the crowd that evening for different reason, the fans couldn't quite work out if Philly were smarks or slightly homophobic and racist among the mix of action which also upset the televisual reaction at home. Either way, its not a good sign to transmit. 

WWE, who are solely focused on pushing the WWE Network, nationally, internationally and globally, have stumbled on a blip. After the Royal Rumble legions of fans rushed to the WWE Network. To UNSUBSCRIBE! Instead of joining, they wanted to leave. Even an expert Triple Threat by Brock and Rollins wasn't enough to stay. It was a terrible choice of winner and an even badly booked, disjointed Rumble match itself. The undercard was laced with empty tag matches. 

So what the frig should WWE have done? As we previous added (which WWE failed to understand and went it alone) was to have this. Randy Orton to return and win. It would have been better long term. Reigns needs a year to progress as a solo star. Rollins is ready and has guarantee, though WWE could have dropped Brock to Rollins. Personally, one would have dropped Brock at Elimination Chamber in Feb. Though the Chamber PPV has been abrupdty dropped. So that's out.

Orton/Rollins at Mania would be amazing. Even with Brock as champ, he can still have a good opponent. Reigns should not have won, so without Orton, Cesaro would have been the logical choice. Beefy, hot and skilled, Cesaro is one for the future AND has the respect of its fans. If WWE wasn't so scared and just went for it, then Cesaro would already be its star by now. Two year of umming and arring has left WWE back in comfortable strife. Ambrose is not ready but one step above Reigns. They need work. Ziggler and Barrett are not even options.  

So what can WWE do now? Simple. Drop Roman Reigns as winner instantly! We like Roman Reigns but this is going to ruin him if it goes forward. Reigns needs tot put the spot on the line like Rey Myserio and lose it. To someone meaningful, too. WWE do not want to look weak by doing this, though not doing it actually makes them seem inferior as a result. Do it now. Or bring back a Raw 15 man Royal Rumble? Do something at least. Admit mistake and make it up. Fans may just comeback in time. Wrestlemania could become the worst PPV of its series for the fifth time. That's not best for business. Fix it. Oh, and Curtis Axel, the man who made The Rock/John Cena possible could also be built up to enter the match on technicality. An absurd choice by WWE to envisage, though the guy is more than capable to make the match work. For WWE it likes to pride itself on taking risks. Yet, for WWE there really is no risk taken. With it, the risk has not payed off. WWE fans have cancelled Network subscriptions, lost faith in the product and is slowly growing apart from WWE overall for the future outlook. WWE has never needed Max Waltham more. Give me the job and make yourselves win. Patience is growing thin. Win or lose, WWE is dropping the ball badly. Sort it out and figure out how to get the best team possible to turn a pure success. Future depends on it. That's advice. 

Removing irrelevant stars and empty legends would have helped. Even Stephanie McMahon as number 30 would have been good. WWE really missed some tricks here.

As for the rest of the card, all tags, the show was poor. Not an epic start to the so called "best year for WWE" to come. Fans regarded it as the "Worst Rumble ever."

© Max Waltham 26^th January 2015

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