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

WWE Extreme Rules 2014

Extreme Rules 2014

Live on Pay Per View, Sunday May 4th, from the Izod Centre in East Rutherford, New Jersey, would Extreme Rules be a worthy pay off for staff, the WWE Network and its new age performers? The biggest test for WWE was not Extreme Rules, but the WWE Network itself hosting PPV after going it alone from traditional cable providers. Would a future be laid down or simply washed out? Let's find out.

Triple Threat

Rob Van Dam Vs Jack Swagger Vs Antonio Cesaro w/ Paul Heyman

RVD begins the show with his Rolling Thunder at Jack Swagger who monkey flipped Antonio Cesaro on top instead. RVD later dropped a powerbomb onto Cesaro to the floor. Cesaro returns later to swing Swagger stopped mid way by Van Dam.

Antonio slammed Swagger with a heavy suplex as RVD elsewhere flew the frog splash to nail Swagger. Jack Swagger became eliminated. That's right. This late triple threat addition was a elimination from the original Swagger/Cesaro collision. Van Dam uses the guard rail and lands on Cesaro from the ring apron. Fans chant ECW. Hardly, but fans are feeling the buzz at this time, which is a comfort to the performers. After using a trash can slightly in ring, RVD takes to the top for a frog splash once more. Rob Van Dam missed as Antonio Cesaro won the battle with a powerful neutralizer.  Van Dam continues to use his exact routine from yesteryear in a smooth and easy going relay. If he really wants to re-influence his place, he and WWE are going to need to figure this out with a more current transition.

Handicap

Alexander Rusev w/ Lana Vs R-Truth and Xavier Woods

If there was ever any doubt that two could overcome one as odds would have it, allow Extreme Rules to enlighten you. After an introduction from the ever cherry glazed lipstick lovely Lana, she absurdly dedicated the match to Russian President Vladimir Putin. There was simply no need. Ingenious WWE allowed Ruzev to dominate the match and crush the pair of superstars who became two random jobbers in the evening. Running as a failed prospect of big men with all muscle mass and no talent, skill or charisma, Alexander Rusev easily crushed Xavier Woods and R-Truth. Woods, one of WWE's so called favoured prospects called up months ago, was pummelled into oblivion. We never saw greatness in Woods, but even if WWE did, a call up to destroy them on national television was plainly ridiculous.

The new reform of Evolution had a chat backstage.

Intercontinental Championship

Big E. (c) Vs Bad News Barrett

Quite a lot has occurred in recent weeks for this. First Langston was re-branded as Big E. after WWE got bored of the muscle mass prospect. Adding insult to injury, Bigster had to simply watch a TV screen in the locker-room over two weeks of Raw shows leading to the PPV. On these shows an Intercontinental tournament was launched and dragged on so long it was pointless. Leading candidate Cesaro, by fans, was predictably by this writer, used as a swerve from WWE bigwigs to place Barrett onto the path of IC glory. The tournament failed to build strong momentum as intended for this match itself.

Though Big E. has been a huge liability and careless in his in-ring behaviour WWE once again, likened to Woods, dropped someone they felt important at the time. Not to say 'we told you so' (which we did) we wanted to protect these cautions. WWE chose not to think and placed the path regardless. The result was this disaster of no momentum to either champion or challenger and a waste of talent presented. Given yet another senseless push, Bad News Borette held most of the action. Big E. was allowed a little action in spots to run and support the match. Big E. attempted the Big Ending backbreaker, but was countered by Bad News Barrett who ran a botched and non connective forearm fly followed by the Bull Hammer.

Some fans cheered for Barrett because they were so bored of the IC title in limbo while others had no real reaction. The basis of change was present. It was not for with Big E. or Barrett themselves. Therein lies the problem. Barrett's countless repackage and mid-tier prospects are so dim that not even the IC title can save him from jobber to future endeavours even if WWE are high on him, for now.

Six man Tag Team

Evolution Vs The Shield

The Evolution refit of Batista, Triple H and Randy Orton for this very match up was cast in doubt. Will Triple H's incessant ego drop The Shield a chance to be big names? Is the ego that big that being off television as a headline performer is so difficult to bear he will dilute a PPV instead?

The Shield began clearing house as Evolution then took control. Ambrose was used as whopping boy by Triple H and Co. until he managed a comeback enough to tag in Roman Reigns. Reigns fell to a pedigree but kicked out. So much for a new star in the making. He kicked out of an RKO, performed well by both Orton and Reigns. This one then went into the crowd with fighting. Ooh, how novel. The crowd getting some 'Extreme' action.

Seth Rollins was then required for the flying spot. He launched from the stands onto Orton and HHH, which was perfectly done by The trio's superglue Rollins.

Reigns flew the superman punch onto Batista in the ring during the frucous smashing Batista of Evolution as Reigns picked up the victory for The Shield.

Steel Cage

Bray Wyatt w/ Erick Rowan and Luke Harper Vs John Cena

After their weird encounter at Wrestlemania last month, would this match for Wyatt raise the profile after a loss previously when the big stage could have presented such glorious opportunity?

Over with crowd, Wyatt began strong. Cena countered in typical fashion, but met by Rowan upon an escape attempt. The Wyatt's await on yet another attempt for a Cena escape, who clearly did not learn from the first try. Cena's extreme over-animation in character, mannerisms and in-ring action just screams stupidity. Fans are not that stupid. They are fed up with it.

Cena tries a pin which Bray kicks out of. Cena reaches the door now. Again, clever thinking Cena is met by Rowan and Harper who halt the escape. Harper predictably enters the cage. Cena lands an Attitude Adjustment from the top rope failing as Harper saves his family member.  

As Cena mounts a chance to escape (again) the lights go out. The sound of a lone child signing "He's got the Whole World in his hands" sounds from a muffled microphone. Distracted and confused John Cena misplaces his faith and is nailed by Bray Wyatt with Sister Abigail to land a clean pinfall victory.

Divas Championship

Paige (c) Vs Tamina

Tamina was allowed huge momtuem and dominance over Paige fromthe beginning. After winnning the diva's title in a random encounter with AJ on the post-Wrestlemania Raw, fluke champion Paige has been booked with jobbers to lead to her match this evening. Taking on the likes of Aksana, Alicia Fox, Aksana and alaicia Fox, with a dash of Rosa Mendes thrown in, Paige is nothing more than a flunkie. Paige's interactions were sloppy and inaccurate.

Called up by Triple H's desperate ego trying to prove to WWE up top he can run the show, is pathetic. With his failed stars Sin Cara and Kharma, both of whcih are gone from WWE, HHH is desperate to have a name on TV he can say was his great forward thinking. With his clutches tightly squeezing the skill out of NXT call ups, HHH saw an oppotunity. Picking a fan favouirte who put in a few average performances with a very sprse roster in NXT for fan cheer, HHH has actually cost himself his reputation tenfold.

What makes for NXT success doesn't equate to WWE stardom. Alexander Rusev, Xavier Woods, Bo Dallas (wherever he is) among others prove WWE's mismanagement is costing them a real chance. All to say, 'I did this' because WWE are getting fairly clueless, though not as clueless as TNA, granted.  If it can't think of ideas, hire this writer despite your pride costing you everytime. "There is no-one who can do what I can do" Argue all you like, this is a fact.

Tamina was predictable defeated by fluke champ and inexperience mainstage diva Paige. What a waste. Fans want to know when is the point WWE will actually value anything ever again. Will Triple H's re-re-launch of the Diva's division after dropping the tag division since his mates are not champ be ever fruitful? Hmm.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship

Daniel Bryan (c) Vs Kane

After finally gaining the heavyweight gold, Daniel Bryan took his first defence against Kane. The 5 foot 8 superstar who has a different look to WWE and the audience whom respect it took place in WWE's annual new age, past Wrestlemania PPV block. Does this remind you of anyone who had the World title at this stage years prior under all the exact requirements? Expect a loss before Summerslam.

Kane began with a Singapore cane onslaught of Bryan. The re-heated fire breathen Kane provided excellent competition for Bryan. Re-masked and as dangerous as ever, Kane battered the champ in a show of understanding. Bryan changed pace with a tornado DDT off the announce table outside.

The pair took the fight backstage. Ooh. An Extreme Rules thriller every year. After turning the tables on Kane, Bryan however made it memorable, at least for now, using a forklift truck. Wheeling Kane back to the ring on the vehicle front, Bryan lands a headbutt. Kane kicks out. A near fall chokeslam returned to Bryan in retaliation. Bryan uses chair attacks and kendo sticks on the monster before placing the YES! Lock on him. Kane smashes Bryan through a outside stacked table. The monster proceeds to lit a table on fire for Daniel to fly through. Kane is misplaced by Daniel Bryan's skill and Bryan puts Kane through the fiery wood instead. Daniel Bryan follows up with the running knee attack for the win.

PPV Rating - 5/10

Men/Women of their matches - Antonio Cesaro, R-Truth, Big E., Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt, Tamina, Daniel Bryan

Man/Woman of the PPV -Daniel Bryan

The Swiss sensation of beefcake galore is not growing as WWE intended. Their start/stop treatment is costly at the highest level. Even as a Max Waltham Paul Heyman guy, Antonio Cesaro could well be doomed at this point. Favouring Wade Barrett over Cesaro proves WWE have no idea, even if Cesaro should not be Intercontinental champion.

Barrett as champion, with yet another useless gimmick to try to prove he can make it before WWE finally concede defeat is laughable. It makes the company look entirely stupid, really clueless and very biased. What level of hope is there when it also discredits its own title? WWE need to find real challengers not one word gimmicks that offer no interest whatsoever.

The Shield are on a course of slow burner which we suggested as praise. WWE, however, are unsure how to develop them all whilst keeping the battle ticking over. Stuck in the '80's is clearly hurting the future now.

Tamina should have grabbed the title at Extreme Rules. When WWE are going to boost this aggressive, clever and powerful diva is anyone's guess. People, especially with diva's matches, have low interest and a flunkie champion on a handshake victory will not encapsulate the audience. She needs to be dropped, pronto. Do it now. This will only ever continue your problems. Why would you need such problems unnecessarily?

In the case of Wyatt, it was too little, too late. Wyatt's win was needed at Wrestlemania. Merchandise seller John Cena remains WWE's problem. There is nothing wrong with selling merchandise, but affecting the product from moving forward to a future is wasteful. Anything Wyatt does with Cena over the coming months is not fully momentous, because the culmination at 'Mania was needed to win. Cena, however, has few opponents to battle with. Tired and dated, Cena is losing stride as much as every challenger he fights. The drawing board with WWE must be assessed in order to re-structure the way forward. It is simple. WWE just don't know what to do, so will revert to the past. The result is the present, never a future.

Daniel Bryan is booked as champ. He'll keep it though to the Summer, so WWE need to get on with making real contenders to his title, to validify the heavyweight reign as important, powerful and meaningful after a year in the making with last year's up and down coming of age story.

WWE are really trying to make new stars, that much is clear. Their lack of understanding how to do it, who to place and in what light is making WWE look ridiculous. With it, fans lose interest, even if they continue to watch as standard than be fully engaged. Fans in the Wrestlemania arena were bored during The Undertaker's match, which is shambolic that this legend was resigned to nothingness.

WWE's future is currently lit. We are officially in the underachievers era. The one's that WWE failed to launch correctly have now been placed. In their placings they either are useless or have been used as fodder whilst as champion. That is simply ludicrous. WWE is low on stock. It needs to seriously think about its way forward than simply assume it will be okay.   

For WWE, its over reliance on the personal thrill of the WWE Network is reducing its quality. Never to be outdone by anyone, Vince McMahon will want the network to become a roaring success. With already so much money wasted on the network, WWE should have stuck with financing its future with training, new hires and backstage business growers. Fans already disgruntled at the shabby transmissions of choppy and delay features, the WWE's Network is something that may be around from those up top, but the fans will not be encouraged to support it, nor passionately get behind it to boost its popularity. Can it before it grows too problematic. Don't get in 'over your heads' as the company got in a flurry with streaming giant Netflix, as noted by WWE's head office. You're Welcome.

©  Max Waltham 05th May 2014

Money in the Bank 2013

Money in the Bank 2013















Live on Sunday 14th July 2013 from the Wells Fargo center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania would WWE's Money in the Bank concept create opportunities for two new stars and re-enhance the WWE product? Could WWE choose to make a decision that would benefit them longterm or fill in blanks over monthly periods? 




Money in the Bank

World Heavyweight Championship #1 contendership




Fandango w/ Summer Rae Vs Antonio Cesaro w/ Zeb Colter Vs Jack Swagger w/ Zeb Colter Vs Damien Sandow Vs Cody Rhodes Vs Wade Barrett Vs Dean Ambrose




Fandango and Dean Ambrose were the first two to enter. Zeb Colter strode out with his two boys to blabber on before us with his propaganda hypocrisy. Scholar Damien Sandow entered with Cody Rhodes where Sandow was cheered by Philly. Sandow wasn't impressed by the half hearted cheer and branded them "slackjaw mouthbreeders." Sandow went on and slated Philadelphia's symbolic hero, "ignoramus" Rocky Balboa. That one worked. Fans fell for it and some turned quickly to boos. The boredom that is Wade Barrett entered to a nationalistic “God save our queen” theme. It doesn't work. Gothic sounds and national heritage cannot save him now in any right. 



After some colourful entrants, the action began. Fandango strutted his prominence before being smashed to the ground. Then both Scholars vs Team America fought each other with a ladder smash melee.




Cody Rhodes was flipped over on the ladder by Antonio Cesaro. Sandow was then tossed by Swagger. Both "Real Americans" which sounds similar to the Un-Americans, circa 2002. Then comprising Lance Storm and Christian, both Zeb's boys saluted. Duck by Cody as double attack from Swagger and Cesaro. Swaggz soon changed momentum and sets the ladder for an advantage. Dean Ambrose returned to pull him off the climb.




Missed ladder smash, run into Jack Swagger. Hurl him outside. Sets up to cheers. Wade Borrett enters. Rugged Wade hauled Ambrose under the ladder to assault him. Wade jabs Fandango who caught him on the apron's left side onto his leg. 




Fannydango flew a leg drop over and onto a lying Barrett in a mild exchange as escort Summer Rae walks around ring. Wearing long silk sleeve gloves, Rae looked like a backstreet call girl. Liability Rhodes was powerfully shoved over by Ambrose. Barrett yanked Dean's feet from outside to hinder his steed. 








Soon after, Fandango met with Sandow. they traded blows before 'dango was shoved into a ladder as Sandow superplexed the dancing delight handsomely.








Stricken Fandango's mouth was as wide as a tunnel with pain. Barrett soon returned as structure would have it and acquired miniature pieces of a ladder, smacking Sandow to the ground.




Attempting a ladder surge, the Brit blunder was met by Dean Ambrose who aborted Wade's ascent.




Perfectly timed, both Swagger and Cesaro joined simultaneously to gang up on Ambrose. What would follow was excellent technique from Ambrose. Ambrose countered with a high ladder DDT, fell by Cesaro after a climb and into an impressive sleeper hold atop the ladder, held by Stronghold Cesaro as Dean dangled off the ladder in sleeper by Antonio. This proved both men's value to the company and match principals. Both protected one another supportively. 










Cody then stopped Cesaro as Rhodes dropped him backwards onto a ladder. It was Wade Barrett's countless time to return. Shortly following were Swagger and Sandow where the intellectual was flapjacked into a pertrouding ladder. Rhodes revealed a ladder from outside as Barrett climbs. Swagger stopped him. As he fell to the ground, on his feet, Barrett stirred his bull hammer elbow and charged it at Swagger. Leering Fandango dealt Wade a blow and climbed the steel triangle. Cohort Rae at ringside yelped for his ascension. 









Ambrose clouted Fandango off the top with a well handled DDT. Ambrose rose quickly as Cesaro returned and closed the ladder just as Swagger arrived to help. How novel. Both at either side of the closed ladder with Ambrose on top the pair had painful plans in mind. Ambrose fell once the pair lifted the ladder horizontally and swung it around with Ambrose able to hold on inside one of the rungs as his head spun around inside. Turn the spin cycle up to 11! Quick witted Ambrose returned from his windmill washer who flipped out from underneath to swivel over atop the ladder as Cesaro and Swagger held both sides. Walking the plank, Ambrose tried to reach the case with a platform aiding him. It was an excellent portrayal once again. Naturally, both ladder holders soon dropped their rival. The stupidity angle came next, however Cesaro made it work. Swagger raised Cesaro on his shoulders to gain the case instead of a ladder. Perhaps this confirms Cesaro is not the six inch wonder. Rhodes launched a missile dropkick at Swagger's legs to tumble the pair down. Rhodes threw Jack out. Fandango rushed in instead, quickly sent packing. Rhodes was nailed by Barrett, once more. 


Cost himself at the final hurdle

Rhodes climbed, Ambrose rushed and bought fought. Head in ladder syndrome confined as Rhodes headed upward. Short lived glory, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns charged in and bashed unassuming Rhodes off. He made a huge mistake crossing certain lines. Injustice served Barrett and Rollins kicked off with feet blows. Fandango came in and got speared. The Uso's joined the drama seeking retribution from their earlier tag loss to Shielder's Rollins and Reigns on the pre-show for the tag titles. Rhodes titled the ladder over taking them all out to end his mass distraction. 


You're Welcome!


Seeing an opportunity to make a name or himself unjust fully, Cody Rhodes clambered up the top to reach the case. Ungracious ethics in Rhodes demeanour was about to cost him. String bean Rhodes clasped is hands on the blue dangling delight until his best friend Damien Sandow saw the betrayal and flung Rhodes sideways into the trash outside of the ring. Indecent Rhodes paid for his sins. Damien Sandow blissfully climbed the heights in Philadelphia to unhook the briefcase and retrieve a contract for the World Heavyweight Championship within one year. "You're Welcome!" 




"Good game Cody, good game." 




Recently fired on the pre MITB Raw, former Managing Supervisor Vickie Guerrero was given a place on the pre show. This was an act of good will from new General Manager of Raw, Brad Maddox, named on the same pre MITB Raw by Chairman Vince McMahon.


Team Brickie has hit the skids. 


Brad told Vick she "put the E into Entertainment" which is interesting since WWE re-branded itself to stand for letters as an abbreviation and not an explanation of meaning. Vickie was given a sterling send off video package. Of course this featured the usual WWE mockery of snorting, insults, snogging Big Show and Hornswoggle and weight jibes. Charming. Brad asked for a standing ovation for Vickie. Philly gave it to her. Then The Miz interrupted with his entrance.




Intercontinental Championship

The Miz Vs Curtis Axel (c) w/ Paul Heyman










Curtis I am such a boredom, Axel joined our TV screens. Without any growing qualities it would make sense to send the IC title back to a flagging Miz. this would also restructure him if WWE really pushed hard behind him. 




Puny Axel dominated the first five minutes until he ran into difficulties lifting The Miz. Miz returned a turnbuckle fury charge with his overhanging, side parted curtains and interesting face, Miz preyed on Axel for a submission leg lock, reversed into the turn post by Curtis. Miz kicked out at two with a tender opening minimally upon release. Miz can always be counted in to deliver those goods. 










Miz swiftly locked in the figure four as Axel frantically squeals. Miz extended height on his submission to apply further pressure in a seductive stance as well.

With Paul Heyman lurking, Miz gave chase around the ring. Heyman was soon ejected to the back. He served his purpose. Miz was unaware as slimy Axel chin attacked the challenger by a foot from the rope exchange. This was a cheap and mild three fall from nowhere underlined with sad and tacky all over the finish. Curtis Axel remains the Intercontinental champion. This is no way to create a new star which should question if it can actually be done for Axel.

Unified Women's championship 

AJ w/ Big E. Langston Vs Kaitlyn w/ Layla

Hidden among the guise of the Divas title the girls shimmered to the ring to have a provocative battle.




Me smells a Layla bad babe turn coming. Kaitlyn was allowed her friend at ringside. Anyone remember last years booking? Kelly Kelly used to have Eve as a chaperone.  Eve switched on Kel. Lay was meant to turn t months ago until the online world ruined the rumour with a leak. It is inevitable, no matter how long WWE put it off. Only then will it be completely meaningless are waiting too long. 




AJ slammed Kaitlyn into the ring post. Arm into post attack. Concerns by Layla. Ground work minimal by AJ in ring. "Ahhh" from Klyn. AJ bridge pressure. Seductive wear downs of Kaitlyn. Chants of boring heard in Philly. Kaitlyn rises up and rams backward into corner as AJ hangs on until flung round into a disorderly back breaker.

Kaitlyn staged a comeback charging off the ropes with a shoulder block takedown. Inverted DDT by Kait. Both take ground time breather spots. Slap by AJ follows clothesline by Kaitlyn. Two fall only.




Reversal by AJ. "Impressing with her technical ability" Jerry Lawler says, as AJ gives us a tiny foot stomp. Gone are the days of rolling around on the floor with actual grounding manoeuvres.

Big E catches AJ falling outside and puts her back inside after Kaitlyn confronts Big E. on the outside. Kaitlyn ahold have been slammed with AJ's upper hand but alas, she countered AJ back in the ring, only to hurt her arm on a spear. Kaitlyn made two mistakes. One, she did not offer her opponent a strong opportunity in match principals and two, once again no sold any vulnerability for the angle built for her on such emotion. Therefore, this suggests Kaitlyn should be dumped from the setting if she cannot or is unwilling to deliver necessary match opportunity. 




AJ swiftly clasped on the Black Widow after, however, as bungled Diva matches are presented. Driven to the mat, Kaitlyn tapped again. She had no other choice. With the end result being a tap out, two PPVs in a row, Kaitlyn should have been a vulnerable character in this saga. She has failed dismally. Her spot cannot be contained any longer. 

Basic and slow match, but passable considering the divas were relegated to no TV time at all. Once total Divas ends, WWE may offer new opportunities. Who knows, maybe not.




A quick break with the football chat show debate of PPV in the skybox gave us some expert analysis so far. Year of experience in entertainment Vickie spoke of. Big Show also told us of Curtis Axel being "Injected." An interesting array of words and we were still none the wiser about any expert tips of the sporting extravaganza. is their any point to this football panel show? Does it have a place on a wrestling show, either?







Chris Jericho Vs Ryback


Another leotard. 
Brought his own Ambulance though.

Can the almighty worker Chris Jericho, given to liability Ryback really give the hunger monster any credibility? Bore back was sporting a new grey leotard. How many has he gone through?




Goldberg chants continues. It seemed like Y2J vs. Goldberg part 3.




Ryback soon walks off after a non eventful start. He spent numerous time outside. This only proves Ryback cannot gather any star quality at all. There is no reaction for him other than based on Goldberg genetics also. The man has ad a year and a half, at the top spot, to get his act together. He hasn't. This is a danger sign WWE need to deal with. Scrap and demote instantly. It can only harm the stow here on out.




Y2J soon loses his steam as Ryback drops Jericho with a shoulder counter and foot stomps. Jericho works the legs of moany Ryback, who previously fled from leg pain on Raw and Smackdown prior to MITB. Ryback takes an unfair moment to return the upper hand with an arm lock on Y2J’s head. Ryback slams Jericho down. Drops second rope slam.




Further proof this is that Ryback truly has nothing to offer. Slams and foot stomps. Yeah...




Ryback lobs Jericho onto the table outside. Hits a leg and arm club. Walks around ring holding foot over Jericho with no pressure or enthusiasm. Chucks Jericho over ring. Groundbreaking.






Reverse arm lock to head again. Jericho runs to hit Ryback who cant be moved. Gets a suplex then roll up into Walls chance. Ryback simply pushes his legs feebly stopping Jericho. Turnbuckle jump by Y2J caught by Ryabck. 




Another boring, laboured and unenthusiastic ‘attack’ on CJ. Shell shock countered for a codebreaker as Ryback simply pushes it off. Does a powerbomb on Jericho for two fall only. Another club and running attack on the leg. Jericho smashes an enziguri. Mild modification codebreaker on Ryback, sent him to the outside. Bored the audience count along to nine. Tons of boos continue. Jericho flies a cross body from the top corner. Two fall. Caught into body lift press for shell shock, countered by DDT, only sufficing two.



Shove down, “Come on baby” stirring cheers as Jeri flips a Lionsault only to be countered as Ryback grabs a roll up and achieves a victorious three fall.






World Heavyweight Championship 

Alberto Del Rio ( c ) Vs Dolph Ziggler w/ AJ and Big E.Langston

Ziggs entered in yet another statement to certain beings he fails to impress. Showing off, and not content on quality, Ziggler, clad in an orange, sweaty vest and pink tights was sour. He entered the fray alone despite the graphic showing AJ and Big E. Langston. The colour combi doesn’t work. Ziggler looks like an overtanned paint chart gone acidic.

Technical mat whizz Rio, who entered alone after Ricardo Rodriguez is away for thirty days for violating the wellness policy, Rio dominated Ziggler from the beginning, whilst stiriring the crowd. Once again fans only chanted for Ziggler based on hope of change, not talent. Others joined in to feel they belonged. Ziggler's high spot was a jump up elbow drop. Rio enzigurion Ziggler to outside with slam into barricade followed. Down in the ring, Ziggler, loudly whining “Ahhh" gets mat worked down by Bertie everywhere. Hard kick smacks on Ziggler with beat downs further drove Del Rio’s strength.

Caught up in ropes showing off his groin when beating beat down was a tacky grovel to yours truly and just sad for desperate Dolph.




Rio soon missed a charge and flung himself to the outside as Dolph dodged a running slide to the ropes.




Jump bronco buster from top rope as Rio climbed it by Ziggler for a two fall. Dolph beats charging fists then sidestepped from turnbuckle counter sending Rio into the corner post. Both were down as Ziggy covers a two on an exhausted Alberto.

German suplex counter by Rio for two. Jump up ropes enziguri on Dolph countered by Fame Asser, for another near miss with a two fall.




Spinning whirl backbreaker silenced Ziggy’s momentum against the defending champion.




Up top missed by Ziggler ground dropkick. AJ’s music blares as AJ struts down the ramp to support her “Ziggy.” Ziggler told his “babe” to leave and get lost. Ziggler was undistracted and DDT’ed Rio. “I love you AJ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” fan chants as Ziggler says “GO!” Rio plants Ziggler on the top turnbuckle backwards to deliver a beautiful reverse face suplex to the mat. Ziggler kicked out on two. Ziggs countered a charge. 

Rio flung Ziggler up in the air to fall down to the groud covering for a two fall. Mindless fans began chanting “USA” in favour of Ziggler to Mexican champ Rio, who had preiviously battled immigration racists Swagger and Colter with fan support of "USA!" paronage. The fickle fans turned again after AJ clobbered Del Rio with her title. Crazy AJ, however was caught and caused a disqualification in Alberto Del Rio’s favour as Dolph Ziggler was dismayed. Fans booed for AJ as Dolph couldn’t win the big one again. WWE made it seem as Ziggler lost due to others to protect his mileage running on empty.

USA chants were given rightfully when troops were given an appreciative shout out following the match.







WWE Championship

Mark Henry Vs John Cena (c)




Henry was heavily cheered. Why? Because he flattened the diatribe that is John Cena. Wrestling fas know Henry is not capable and usualy it doesn’t work like Ryback. However WWE fans support Henry only because WWE won’t put anyone else in line. If it did, fans would not cheer Henry to best Cena. WWE know this and fans play their mark role well. Should all fans accept anyone in the hope of change that will never come? Clever fans a hme, however, will not buckle to social group pressures as part of the WWE experience in the arena to feel they have a place in the business. Cena was heavily booed and gave not one care about it, to insult fans further.












Cena, on introduction smirked and winked, further disgracing the business and himself, and yet, for all his lies, sold home proof he really doesn’t care about the business or its paying audience. 




Superhero Cena ran into a kick. Cena was floored. Henry controls the match. Henry controls he match on a stationary kick. Henry charges into the corner on Cena who falls like a stone giving no offence in the match to begin. Cena cradles around Henry trying to lift himself up as Henry, standing there, simply taps Cena who falls outside.




Henry dropped Cena stomach first on steel steps outside. Inside cover for two.




Nostalgia rang out for “Sexual Chocolate” which added nothing. Another two fall for minimal mover Henry.



Whirl slamming. 



Cena forearms launched to huge boos until Henry smashed a punch at Cena to a happy crowd.




Henry picked up Cena and hurled him around in a giant swing for one and a half turns. Henry lifted him outside into the barricade for a whirl for half a turn again, careful not to disorientate himself. What a fascinating move. 




Cena got a mid-leg kick then adding “ooh! Ooh! Ooh!” when hit by Henry. Cena turned the match around in one move to drop the five knuckle s**t fall. Lifting Henry as he did post Raw, Cena’s ego to lift Henry resulted in the same predicament. Henry fell on top of Cena. A weak Cena swing DDT counter on shoulders followed. Cena lifted the Attitude Adjustment. Henry kicked out of the two fall.






Cena was caught by Henry from the turnbuckle. World’s Strongest Slam. Two fall. 




Mark Henry added chairs to the catastrophe as Cena got up so easily as th referee removes the foreign objects. Henry exposes the ring pad as Cena counters Henry into it and locks on another Attitude Adjustment. Henry was one of the elite few by WWE booking standards to be allowed to reach the rope break. Henry smashes Cena with a “low blow” as Michael Cole informed us which wasn’t low and went to the body which Jerry Lawler quickly corrected after. Henry took two only. It may have been a kick to the chin Jerry responds, covering the botch by everyone on broadcast and in ring.



Cena drags Henry back to the centre of the ring for the STF where John Cena taps out Mark Henry to hold the WWE championship.







Money In The Bank

WWE Championship #1 contender



Randy Orton Vs Rob Van Dam Vs Daniel Bryan Vs Sheamus Vs Christian Vs CM Punk Vs Kane



Ring of fire



Kane was viciously assaulted by the Wyatt family in the run up to MITB PPV. While a credible worker, Kane, who wasn't going to win, was well placed to be cost a title opportunity. Set for a new feud and backstory for revenge should he take it, this boosted Kane's profile instead of participating. 



Might need Anger Management again. 



This MITB ladder match was billed as the All Stars MITB. No one paid attention to that. If it doesn't need branding, don't add it. 




The anticipation for over six years built, out walked Rob Van Dam to no momentum or style. He simply walked down the ramp. Has TNA marred him, or has he simply lost his passion? We shall see.




Daniel Bryan joined the ring. He won it last year, can he win two in a row? 



There are lots of honourable men in this match and only one bad boy in the tweener phase. (Bryan) Hmmm....




Punk, Bryan and Orton had the crowd. Those three are not favourites in WWE’s eyes to win but he crowd were mad for them, all in different aspects. all three provide unique qualities wrestling requires. WWE need o spec it's roster to add them healthy competition in future.




Heavy RVD chants bellowed. Everyone in the match focused on Van Dam and charges a beatdown. Van Dam now on the outside.












RVD and Sheamus returned soon after as RVD cleared house. 



Running charge of ladder into Sheamus. Caught behind by Christian. Dropped onto ladder and stops incoming Daniel Bryan with a  Rolling Thunder onto a laid down ladder. Orton enters as he hurls RVD over, unaware is then hit by leg. Top rope as RKO on ladder, Christian smashes the ladder on RVD's back knocking froggy Van Dam off his lilypad.



Courtesy or hurtesy? 


Christian was humourously (by WWE standards) allowed the mini Hornswoggle ladder. He made the best of it. Smashing into Orton's back, to the outside then hurled the mini ladder out prompting a big one to be set. Sheamus comes in as Christian touches the blaring red case. Sheamus shoulder charges Christian into the corner as “You suck Sheamus!!!” echoed from a far away fan.




Shea tried to drop the Unprettier on Christian off the ladder. Christi slaps him as Sheamus throws a ladder into the face, protected by WWE mindlessly again at the expense of another.



Mayhem! Gravity compels you!




Shemaus climbs as RVD slides in and shoves ladder over from under the open middle. Sheamus turns action around again. Backbreaker delivered then rolls RVD onto ladder lying down. Outside, he smashed Bryan's head into the Spanish announce table and barricade too. Stacks longer ladder from table to ring. Powerbombing Bryan onto the bridge was countered on turnbuckle top as Sheamus was hurled and flew over the ladder which was meant to hit him. Quick thinking Bryan stopped the botch with a running knee off the apron.




Punk sets a ladder as Christian and Orton re-enter while Bryan sets ladder alongside. Christian and Bryan lock horns. Orton climbs. Sheamus up . Punk's ass lifts and joins as RVD adds to the mix. Everyone is up there with each other. Briefcase swings fruitfully as everyone falls to a suplex gone wrong as Rnady Orton then holds his knee in pain and immediately rolls outside. This may be a legit casualty. Oh no. 



Atomic mess?

Haze clears as Sheamus carries Christian around touching back of ladder in corner to follow White Noise on mat. Sheamus re-opens a ladder as Van Dam scouts but smashed into head with a Brogue Kick halt. Agile Bryan charges to stop Sheamus. Yes/No punches traded in favour of Bryan, Sheamus bleakly clubs Bryan atop ladder. With this as his only momentum, Sheamus is absolutely dire. Punk quickly sops Sheamus who swing holds on the briefcase to a tense scene.



Chops and punches from Punk and Sehamus respectively. Fans did not believe Sheamus’ feeble exchanges. Punk behind Sheamus on turnbuckle drops ladder onto Sheamus squashing him underneath. Orton returns to club down Punk. Headbutts and fists as Orton hooks Punk’s leg with cheek awareness as swiftly turning him round and hoisting Punk onto a corner ladder in a beautiful and fluid transition from both. Orton fiercely plants the drape rope DDT. Stubbly Orton gets nailed by a spear from Christian, who also takes out Daniel Bryan, charging in.




Van Dam slithers in to grab a ladder and jab Christian from behind. Van Dam gave an instruction to Christian as Captain Charisma delayed RVD's climb. Both exchanged blows. RVD got a touch of case. Ladder soon falls as Christian goes with it, but RVD jumps to nearby ladder. Perfect time for RVD to land the five star frog splash on Christian in the centre of the ring under the case high above. This was a perfect moment from both adding to the match. Sheamus now rejoined RVD. Sheamus tipped the ladder as Van Dam awkwardly smashed his face onto the rope. Careless liability Sheamus may have struck again. 








Bryan behind slams kicks on Shea and RVD one after other. Orton in. Bryan scouts and rams ladder into him. Traps Rand behind to charge into it. Pocket rocket Bryan then hurls outside on to Punk into ladders below in  rapid succession. Sheamus and RVD quickly jump up from being down on mat to take position of double leg drop from above as Bryan ran to the corner. 




Sheamus, claiming the top right turnbuckle, quickly gets shoved off the top corner by a ladder charging Bryan onto the long bridge outside Sheamus set earlier. This is Sheamus' traditional spot in all MITB PPV's. Remember Sin Cara and previous after that? If you set your ladder you will take your own fall. Such is wrestling custom.



Mmmm. It's Asses Anonymous. 



Curtis Axel enters to slam a chair on Daniel Bryan. Eh? Curtis Axel?! Axel did a finishing move no one knows by name to Bryan outside. Bryan may just be the new Intercontinental Champion. 




Axel’s involvement was unexplained as righteous CM Punk gives a GTS before he can leave.




Aghast, Paul Heyman arrives telling Punk to get the case, whilst yelling at laid out Axel for crossing paths with “my best friend” Heyman adds. Is Heyman going to leave Axel? 



Punk climbs to top as Heyman favourably yells him to go up. Heyman then batters Punk with the ladder from behind, twice as they stare down. Punk was flabbergasted. Heyman was visibly dismayed. Oh dear. An impasse has surfaced. Unwilling but necessary to continue, Heyman launches the crucial third ladder slam to Punk’s bewildered face. Their partnership is over, but Punks ass was in prime position. That was a silver lining, but Punk became red faced. Heyman hit his former adversary hardway.




Action soon changed after the comedown. Orton stopped RVD climbing with a crushing RKO from ladder to mat. 



Clobbered!



Randy Orton soon climbed. Taking a scenic view from above checking everyone's staus Orton seemed free for a homerun. Seeing no competition in his path, Orton reached for the briefcase and began to unhook the contract holding item. Orton as able to prise the case and become the WWE Championship Money In The Bank title holder within a twelve month period. Fans were happy and now have numerous options to consider on his pathway to potential WWE title holdings. WWE akllowed Orton to take the case when nowone assumed he would. Dependable and unexpected, Randy can always deliver. Heowver,critics debated his personal life recently supported his victory. When you get a WWE divorce, you win MITB. Ask John Cena circa 2012. 



Orton cradles his dangling delight.




For WWE, this was a safe bet and is a good safeguard for business reasons in case problems occur. Short on skilled staff, WWE need Orton more than ever, and he still holds all the cards as alluded to here -   Randy Orton holds all the cards



Randall, Mr. Sexypants in the Bank!



Orton and Sandow are now the men everyone in WWE must watch closely and fear at the same time. the two hottest properties in the business and able to reform landscape in ways audience cannot see coming, but crucial for business and fan principals, these two options are finally being presented with real possibilities. How WWE maintains this, without stripping their entire mantra to evolve, will be a tense question to unfold on WWE TV. 







PPV Rating - 6/10




Men/Women of their matches - Dean Ambrose, The Miz, AJ, Chris Jericho, Alberto Del Rio, Mark Henry, Daniel Bryan




Man/Woman of the PPV - Damien Sandow







Mark Henry and John Cena let the side down once again. Unable to mask either's flaws and booked on a loyalty program for Henry's service to WWE without ever capturing the WWE crown was an embarrassment to wrestling. Champions are respected, as WWE knows, on merit of in-ring, promos and an all round package of skill than years on the books. Neither have any outstanding qualities but Henry did all the work. Granted it wasn't barely anywork except stand and occasional move. Cena attempted to sell for someone who would never test his credentials as a household name. During their animated, lackluster outing, Cena's constant talking to Henry and undersells were a colossal waste of time. 
Bromance is officially over.

Unseen by many, how could you not see Damien Sandow grabbing the case? There was no one else viable. Ambrose put in excellent display of more flexible workrate and has proven he listened to previous PPV reviews. We feel he should be a slow progresser, though slipped in tender skills on his journey. He did this here as the scale of match required. He proved once again he has options on his path and needs no rushing.  Cesaro was again impressive with what he was given, but needs full backing from WWE to be pushed strongly outside of the Colter tandem. It will harm him overall. If WWE feel this is no big deal, it should. The longevity of the company and its challengers will become tainted and lost. Without them, WWE may have a handful of household names, but none to feasibly challenge with for a future.




CM Punk entered another great display and was better suited in the mass match up scenario after strong previous clashes with Undertaker and Jericho. Bryan proved WWE's star force alongside Randy Orton. All three are dependable and talented. Fans and WWE acknowledge this in unison. However, WWE are going to need challengers for them. Van Dam is settling back in firmly, however Daniel Bryan's accidental nudge of ladder when both were down in the match hurt. By pushing the side ladder, a ladder atop Dam collapsed onto his groin. Ouch!



OUCH!




Ryback is a mass liability and cannot grow. Even working with one of the best could not help him. This should be a red light signal WWE have to do something to reform or scrap the character.




AJ's battle with Kaitlyn has traditionally been milked by WWE. It has lost it's depth already. It never really had any and with limited skills WWE must push new challenges forward. Naomi, Natalya, Tamina and Layla should be presented. However, Layla is not ready yet unless she begins delivering skills than sloppy booty shakes. WWE have a tendency to push the boundary to do it anyway for fun. It makes all involved look infeasible.



Has something going for her. That glitter belt. 



Curtis Axel has to be the lamest prospect to emerge after given a huge opportunity. Based on favourtism and not professionalism  Axel is slipping, even with the almighty Paul Heyman at his side. The Miz should be given a strong program to re invigorate his character. Miz wore grey tights. When his green one's are in the wash, these are okay. Any other colours with not benefit Miz at this time. The power is in the pants. 






Alberto Del Rio won by DQ. The result of DQ's has been mentioned before. Again, this one was acceptable because it was rare, unforeseen and wasn't the same old booking after the pair have been having strained matches together. Rio can work but is lacking interest. Half the problem is opponent, the other the same booking tirelessly in the same context. Ziggler, as noted numerous times prior, has reached his peak.




With numerous injuries with Rob Van Dam, CM Punk and others, their commitments are valued, however Money in the Bank 2013 was a half and half PPV. The MITB matches themselves were joyous. The singles were extremely poor. Only Miz and Rio held standing but one was undervalued and the other boring. It's time to really start booking comprehensively if these characters are going to break their limitations. If they cannot, the product will continue in stalemate. Fans will eventually leave again after understanding they have been duped once more in believing change was there and never truly existed to begin with.










©  Max Waltham 18th July 2013