Wrestling features, articles, reports and column inches. Any feedback or events need covering available, as well as advertising. Let us know if any appeal to you.
During a live three hour telecast of WWE Raw on Monday 10th September 2012, veteran commentator Jerry “The King” Lawler, 62, inexplicably collapsed at ringside by the announce desk in Montreal, Canada.
Unsure of details as the live event happened, fans were told the situation was “serious” by broadcast colleague Michael Cole, who aimed to update with further details throughout the evening. It was believed Lawler received a stroke or heart attack as he was stretchered to the back, where CPR was performed.
Lawler was taken to a nearby hospital to receive treatment after responding well to oxygen and then able to breathe on his own later on.
In action 30 - 40 minutes earlier
Cole wrote on his Twitter page after the occurrence – “His condition has stabilized. He's breathing on his own, and his heart is beating on its own.”
Lawler had only just participated in action moments before, in a tag match with Randy Orton against Dolph Ziggler and CM Punk after the original Punk/Orton match was altered mid way. The previous week Lawler had wrestled CM Punk in a steel cage match.
Ex-wife and former WWE Diva Stacy Carter, aka The Kat, updated via Twitter the next day he was “making progress” after confirming Lawler underwent surgery with an angioplasty.
His girlfriend, Lauryn Laine McBride told fans “Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers. It has been confirmed that Jerry did have a heart attack he is in stable condition and breathing on his own & heart is stable.” She added “I’m getting on the first flight out of here to be with him & will keep everyone posted.”
Lawler was well known in the 1980s for his infamous feud with comic Andy Kaufman, after his debut in the 70s.
With Kaufman in earlier career
WWE realised this statement shortly after - “We are hopeful Jerry makes a full recovery and returns to WWE in the near future. Our thoughts are with Jerry and his family.”
The situation made it all too real for those watching, as fans gave well wishes among wrestling peers all over, including Jim Ross, DDP, The Iron Sheik, Gail Kim, Shawn Michaels and numerous others. Many backstage were emotional and tearful, while talk of cancelling the show was mentioned. Pat Patterson appreciate night was shelved.
Commendable effort from both
Pat Patterson appreciation
will be re-scheduled
WWE continued the broadcast before the end of the evening with commentary falling silent for the meantime in a manner of dignified respect to “The King.” Cody Rhodes and Rey Mysterio had to follow with a matchup, which both portrayed expertly which was a tough feat for both individuals to continue forward with. Bret Hart, CM Punk and John Cena’s promo then continued as Raw updated on Lawler before finishing.
Regardless of aiming to prove he can still wrestle, which he can, Lawler and WWE need to maintain his position on commentary alone. Both need to put health first on all levels, and include more talent to be risen than rely on veterans to carry new guys needing guidance.
Wrestling Wonders wishes Jerry Lawler good health.
The 2011 version of the WWE's Slammies event awarded certain stars in-house achievements. The Slammy can often be used as another tool to accentuate a feud as well as honouring what was worthwhile and respective TV viewing to its audience. Did the victors of these awards further enhance their worth and prestige to the upper echelons of a true WWE star fans could invest in for a future purpose?
The first Slammy instantly began the show. Presented by Booker T and Hornswoggle the, Tell me I didn't just see that! Slammy had four candidates. Eve and Alicia Fox had duties to bring out the presenters in a hostess esq role which did nothing for them, though Fox, who is comfortable being cast into a "support staff" role, which makes her future look dismal, showed more enthusiasm than Eve.
JR's poppin and lockin dance in the Michael Cole challenge, The Royal Rumble 2011, where Santinohid under the ring to the end and almost eliminated the winner, Alberto Del Rio after attempting a cobra finisher. Also nominated where R-Truth having a cup of water thrown in his face by a fan in attendance dubbed "Little Jimmy", and The Miz dressed up as The Rock in a parody moment.
The winner? - JR Jim Ross! Michael Cole instantly erupted with immense anger, which then saw Booker throw down a challenge of a rap off between the two announcers. Mikey C Cole went first. The latter, JR ended up winning the contest. Booker wanted to end this with a Ross-aroonie! Hornswoggle, by the way, was sporting an Afro and was acknowledged as being able to speak, now that Santa Clause gave him this "gift".
The second Slammy later on, was announced by Ted DiBiase and Mick Foley. This would be the Holy symbols award (holy s***!). Being an ordained minister made Ted the Holy part, forcing Foley to comprehend he must be the .... DiBiase's maniacal laugh bellowed. It was a decent moment.
Sheamus slamming and "injuring" Sin Cara at MITB PPV, Randy Orton RKO'ing Christian onto the steel steps with height from the ropes, Big Show/Mark Henry collapsing the ring at Vengeance, and Evan Bourne performing the Shooting Star Press off the ladder onto the rest of the challengers at MITB.
So, the victor was... Big Show and Brock Henry in the predictable, non feud enhancing Slammy win. Show would go on to thank the "Academy" arts and athletics, talking about the most Visual spectacular - unapologetic for his behaviour to the Universe over the months for being lacklustre. Show claimed he was good at what he did and chose not to give a care in the world about the audience nor the young challengers he is meant to help bring along further up the ladder, even in the case of Henry, he should have developed more of a spectacle considering both were booked for their sizes alone.
Show then headed down to the ring for a match with Wade Barrett. Setting up the impending PPV, TLC, with table in place, Barrett found himself atop the turnbuckle, aiming to strike the Big Show with the Barrett Barrage to the outside of the ring, though Show had already stirred to his feet and the two had a stare off. Big Show chose to break more than the apparatus in wrestling principals. He slammed his fists onto the table crushing it down the middle, aiming to show his fierce powerhouse aggression as a formidable opponent which made him look laughable and left Barrett exposed up top, while Show exposed how cheap the tables are, which we already know, but should not have been highlighted this way.
Show later punched a chair, which Barrett aimed to use. The most disjointed finish happened. Big Show "won" by a DQ. This result was unwarranted as the DQ never happened. Barrett did not USE the chair or weapon/s, meaning the match was a no contest and should have continued, but hey, Big Show and certain others are allowed to break the rules in their favour, which, destroys audience respect and ratings. It is purely these 1980 decisions that deter viewers as it isn't done correctly, then failing to become translatable to a credible star. Stars like them will not amount to anything when their career is truly over. Think about that, and you'll maybe figure out how to restructure even the most dire old hats. They will have no legacy and will always be a forgotten waste of time.
To present the third award, feels long already, doesn't it? Shock! Road Dogg Jesse James. I wonder if he is in WWE 12, per chance?
Aiming to "keep it PG" he then gave a rendition from the DX days, to cheers from fans. Someone from 1997 still has his aura to gain a pop from the audience.. with intrigue for what he could possibly achieve if returned briefly or fuller in some capacity.
R - Truth's Green Bay/Milwakee gaff made the grade along with Santino's showing of the Cobra to the fakeBarack Obama and his Men In Black FBI force apprehending him, assuming he would assault the Pres, at the Capitol Punishment PPV. Added to the nom's where Stone Cold offering CM Punk a beer, and R-Truth/Miz/Christian having a tongue twister at Randy Riley Jimmy.
After four were announced, tons more came. Too many to mention, including John Laurinaitis's hilarious Universe slip up, "OOh-viverse", with confusion aside, CM Punk arrived, equipped with a mannequin. No, it wasn't Eric Young. And it didn't resemble Max Waltham.
In issue 207 of Powerslam magazine, it was written that "some wag" would probably drag up Laurinaitis' history as a derogatory method. That "wag" was a reference to Max Waltham, no doubt, whom had no intention of crushing Johnny Ace, regardless of bad hiring decisions. As an on screen charcter, Ace has been of worth to an extent in the current WWE climate.
The "wag" in question was actually CM Punk, who revealed Johnny Ace's history, due to the fact that the "wag" in Powerslam mentioned it first. What an irony. And all because they wouldn't hire MW for one page of written word. Instead, over the last three or so months, you can see them aiming to 'adopt' the MW voice which looks dire, and has restricted the magazine's written word.
Yes. It has also hired a dire writer to produce the pages of 16 - 19 in issue 208 , which attempts to give voice to a new writer in order to snub MW, and in hindsight has become completely disjointed and unreadable as an 'article' on TNA's PPV. Claiming that the magazine has prestige in whom it hires, they hired an average joe to write in order to prove something which discredited the sole piece. The Editor should be ashamed to have allowed that to go out to print. For someone claiming they aren't like the WWE in elitist principals, they don't realise they are exactly that. Ego does not fit in the publishing world as wrestling would have it.
John Laurinaitis won the Slammy, whom couldn't accept for some reason, this being Punk's reasoning for the mannequin
Presenting the Divalicious Slammy of the Year, none other than one of the greatest ever, Lita!
I wonder where the word Divalicious came from? Everyone knows where an "alicious comes from" mainly Rileylicious, which WWE still haven't dropped properly! So, are WWE choosing to f**k with me? Seems that way. How sad. My 'ramblings' are creative advice, constructive and help talent to get across because the office has lost its way. Yet they use this writer as a form of research and ideas, which have been encorporated, on screen. It's fine if you give back. Waltham hasn't recieved anything yet... Never did I think McMahon was scared of anyone, let alone an intuative ... ! Scared that the product could actually be good if one was on board? X
Back to the Slammy's. So, who would claim it? Natalya and the double sharpshooter on Eve and Layla, Kelly Kelly defeating Brie Bella for the Unified Diva's title, Kharma destroying and retiring Michelle Mc Cool and Beth Phoenix glamslamming Eve from the top rope.
The winner - Bimbo Bimbo when she killed off the Women's division by defeating the last remaining Women's Champion, Brie Bella.
Natalya and Phoenix instantly arrived, on cue, Beth snatched the Slammy, claimed she was "Diva of the year", before Bimbo Bimbo, a babyface, chose to attack Phoenix by slapping her around the face, unprovoked. If ever there was a true joke, this was it. Babyfaces do not attack for no reason, let alone at all. Another discredit proving the Women's division is dead to BB's forces striking again. WWE should be ashamed. With an unbiased view, anyone can see Phoenix claimed it, yet WWE chose to disrespect the viewing public, in order to make sure the dire KK had something to put her name too, because she has absolutely nothing to contribute as an entity.
Santino and the Bella's then introduced after a comedy intro of "ohm-g!", the OMG moment of the year, comprised of HHH tombstoning the Undertaker (WM 27), a rock bottom on Cena also at WM 27, Superstars walk out on C.O.O. HHH, and Punk taking the WWE Title at MITB. Triple H, naturally, claimed the Slammy.
Instantly HHH returned to the arena, with sledghammer in tow. Flaunting the "epic" match, H would go on to state that the Undertaker being unable to walk out of mania thanks to HHH means this was the OMG moment henceforth. Then addressing Kevin Nash in prepartion to the TLC PPV this Sunday, (18th). This Sunday, HHH claimed it "didn't matter who was right or wrong" then said he would climb the ladder and gain the sledgehammer because he was "right". Right about what, exactly?
HHH also refused the Slammy from Santino. (Plans are being discussed for another UT v HHH match at WMania. This is going to be pointless once again, Can it, and find a new challenger. Not Kane, it needs to be a fresh opponent (therein may lie the problem). Jericho would also be a fine option.
It got worse. David Otunga presented the next Slammy with Hall of Famer, Tony Atlas. The trending star of the year award, would be a Fatal Four Way match to see which of the four would be the most trended on social media outlet, Twitter. Yes. WWE once again relied on Twitter, however this time made a specific match to the website, devaluing the actual purpose of wrestling a match for a comeptive business aimed at achieving different goals.
It was here that Atlas went into overkill with his laughing hippo comedy routine. It served no purpose and fell flat on humourous after the second laugh. When explained he was laughing at Otunga specifically, the explanation still could not be backed up. Yes. WWE book anything they think of without thinking about it. There is no meaning which is what fans require. That is why ratings truly dip.
Daniel Bryan, Cody Rhodes, Dolph Ziggler and Zack Ryder were the four locking horns.
Some of the hottest moments came here in this match, especially the Cody Rhodes shots in pinfall attempts with Daniel Bryan. All four put on a good match, which became the best of the night by far. And yet WWE classed it as the less important to aspire to. Rhodes was the top man in this one, closely followed by Bryan.
All four delivered superb suplexes off the turnbuckles after one another. That looked beautiful.
Winner - if there was any doubt, Zack Ryder. What exactly did he win, apart from the Slammy of non importance?
Another superstar returned to the prestigous awards event. Christian arrived to present the slammy for Game changer of the year. Entering on cruthces, Christian claimed he should have been nominated for making it there in his current condition, as well as airing his disgruntled treatment, asking for "one more match", after being a two time World Champion in the space of a year. Technically it was just months apart, through no fault of his own.
The one "pivital moment that changed the WWE" (clearly a Waltham nomination was also omitted), Capt'n C blamed the WWE Universe for failure to support him in the last match opportunity he never felt he recieved.
"No one man is bigger than the WWE" - Vince McMahon.
The HHH/McMahon firing was up for offering, alongside Edge, Kevin Nash's return at MITB in which he powerbombed CM Punk after winning his first WWE Title to then lose to opportunistic cash in from Alberto Del Rio, and The Rock and John Cena's continuing saga.
To build Wrestlemania 28, The Rock and Cena won, to which Cena, as babyface, accepted the award and berated his opponent at the upcoming 'Mania in April. This was a right Slammy recieval for building momentum, however was completly implemented incorrectly. Cena would raise the hopes of fans by playing Rock's music, and then the via satellite messages that he knew weren't there. In heelish teasing fashion, Cena, a babyface who will never turn anytime soon, and especially not for 'Mania or 2012, he would choose to apologise for Team Bring It for failing to "bring It". It was meant to be a hot promo, yet Cena ruined it with the script monotone child mannerisms that failed to sell for anyone once again. He claimed that Rock and Cena at Wrestlemania 28 would be the game changer "for ever". He boldly claimed we would get Cena "at his very best". That remains to be seen...
4 of the 6 nominees would fight in Tag action. The Miz and Del Rio battled together against Punk and Orton. Cena and Henry were "upgraded". Thankfully, their particpation outside of this was its saving grace. The 4 man tag proved to be a fair match. After Miz and Del Rio worked Punk down for most of the beginning, Punk retailiated with action and a "nap time" yell attempting a GTS. Del Rio and Miz had strong tag team principals together. Punk also delivered a smooth and fluid swing neckbreaker on Miz.
This match purposely built five stars in their match to the looming PPV, which we commend. Wade Barrett came out of nowhere to assault Randy Orton, whom was awaiting the hot tag on the apron. Shortly after this, Orton's fury gave chase to Barrett through the crowd, leaving Punk without a partner to tag in.
Shortly before, Miz would goad Orton for not getting said tag and bounced up and down in another aerobics dance workout video :) then shortly after missed a spot and landed his knackers into the turnbuckle. Ouch! Eventually Miz would redeem himself and planted the Skull Crushing Finale onto Punk for the three fall. The Miz needed back in the game, and this was a start to that.
After the finish, both men lifted a ladder together to charge at Punk and then slam it down onto him, while underneath, after an elevated aggressive slam downwards. Wounded, Punk was then locked into Del Rio's armlock whilst trapped among the ladder. Miz, on microphone had strong words for Chicago's own. They aimed to make sure Punk would make it to TLC, "'cause one of us is taking the WWE title away from you". "You're done at TLC!". As of time of writing, plans for Cena to referree Zack Ryder's US title match will someohow warrant him being in the main WWE title match on the card. WWE have no clue what to do, and cannot ever allow three different stars to elevate themselves for the company. Adding Cena will destroy any chance of making these three stars ever more stronger. WWE still seek their top heel, as both Miz and Del Rio have been downplayed by the company. With Cena added, all will fail forever. As well as the fact it wasn't scheduled/advetised.
The A-Lister of the year award came afterward. Vickie Guerrero was joined by a returning Goldust! who claimed Vickie won. Excitied for what she would recieve it for, Goldie explained she managed to wear more make up than him! "Excuse Me!!!!????!!!"
A video clip of Kane was also shown beforehand, marking his impending return to the WWE soon. His video was just shown, so he wont return tonight, will he?
Candidates for this Slammy were, Hugh Jackman, whom supported and put all talent over when he chaperoned Zack Ryder. Jackman floored Ziggler with a stroyline jaw KO punch, which was very believable to dupe audiences on Twitter. Good job WWE!
Joining Jackman would be the Muppets, Snooki and Cee Lo Green. All worthy, but for some reason, Green was my winner. Though I'm drawn to Jackman for many reasons.
Vickie told Goldust, "I'm opening the envelope!"
The winner? --- Snooki! Vickie's dispared eyes rolled as Goldie told us Snook sent a message. WWE were highly impressed with her training prepearing for her Wrestlemania match, in 2011. Most believe that is why she claimed a Slammy. The real reason was after she mentioned in her acceptance speech, it was "Frickin' Awesome!" and not to forget to watch, "Jersey shore, which airs in January!". WWE, so desperate to gain multi media outlets for 2012 fail to understand that wrestling levels were what it was build upon, and that the wrestling fans are the ones that should gain the priority and focus before moving into a entertainment telly/PR side of things. You already have/had an audience. Your reliance on media outlet rebranding has proven to show you have lost a good proportion of that audience, which can be reclaimed if you bother to adhere to the wrestling principals. If you don't, what reason does any wrestling fan have to continue on with a product that is moving away from the sole foundation it was built upon?
Josh Mathews interviews Mark Henry.
Next match... Sheamus entered... Jinder Mahal followed, speaking in his mother tongue. Then he provided translation right after. As he walked to the ring, Mahal claimed he would enter a Slammy winning performance. As soon as he stepped in the ring, Sheamus delivered a Brogue Kick which floored Mahal instantly. The match was declared over. Sheamus left. Sheamus did NOT even COVER Mahal for a three fall properly. Absolutley ludicrous, not to mention pointless for Mahal. There wasn't a need to book this match. Another reason WWE has lost sight with its viewership. Just don't book it. Neither person won here.
Presenting Slammy for Superstar of the year was... Rey Mysterio! Rey was met with loud chants of "Sin Cara". "Performing for you is the greatest honour" Rey stated. We agree. Though WWE's script on Rey didn't sell with passion as should be intended, surely?
Rey announced the names. Randy Orton, The Miz, CM Punk, then he paused for lengthy time and biasedly disgruntedly mumbled in hatred murmur, Alberto Del Rio, before naming Mark Henry and John Cena also.
The fact Rey, aiming to keep feud going yes, lost his accuracy in unbiased portrayal was a bad decision. Rey, who had beef with Miz and Punk, kept impartial. Even issues with Henry were there. Yet this portrayal for ADR actually did not sell him. It also highlighted Rey's comeback feud. Sparodicly the matches are fine, though everyone is sick and tired of Rey/Del Rio being milked to a point where it falls of its hind legs and has no gumption to carry it any further. Cena/Orton/HHH in your achives would be a good example to explain for you.
Among any doubt, CM Punk picked up the gong for Superstar. Clearly, the most talked about star over the year would win. Though the actual superstars were either Orton or Del Rio. Orton's 5 star work ethic in excellent matches, as well as Del Rio's breakthrough year of Royal Rumble, Wrestlemania, Money In The Bank and WWE title victories outshone all else.
Del Rio, love or loathe, clearly bagged it. WWE's stalling of him cost the top heel spot it has desired. If they put the World title on him at Wrestlemania, he would have been exactly that by now. Respecting Edge to leave as champ was their decision. Edge should have proved ever more the professional by losing the title, setting a new star up and proving, with this action, that he truly was a wrestling great for the business. He would have been respected greatly. That didn't happen.
John Laurinaitis arrived. Couldn't get there earlier? The Universe assumed he wasn't there. Yet broke that in revealing him till last. If he won a Slammy earlier, he would have picked that up. This was a stupid move. Johnny took Punk's Slammy in return. Pointless.
WWE's returns video aired again. (post is coming soon on that).
Jennifer Gantini, a mother and wife from Virginia, whom works in Afghanistan for the troops of the US, had her son and husband in attendance to honour her. We thought it was a good touch, but clearly we know why it was broadcast.... If McMahon made rightful decisions for the product as he claims then I would be able to "throw my arms around him". His ego seems to believe WW dislikes him personally. You would be wrong. We just cannot condone certain illogical ideologies surrounding wrong people in the right spots.
Alas, onto the main event. Mark Henry would face John Cena. After a boring match with no real relevance and just to fill time, shortly into it, an explosion happened! Shocking nonetheless, a moments pause, darkness came and the fire burned! Kane returned! Mark Henry, the man who shelved The Big Red Machine looked immensly petrified. Making sure his knees didn't buckle as he left the ring to the outside, Cena, in ring turned around as Kane had entered. The masked monster, dressed in a welder's mask, (Flashdance is ever appropriate), chokeslammed John Cena! To no explanation at all, WWE have also moved Kane, a Smackdown! superstar to Raw, in the hope to launch someone who has lived out his usefullness as a main event star since his years ago in the company, is being pushed towards matches with Cena. As much as we like Kane's character in parts, it is the standard Henry/Show practise. Put the mask back on and just run with it. No explanations, which will soon fall flat on its backside.
Kane is a Smackdown! superstar, yet WWE will break its own parametered walls once again, because it is desperate for new stars when it fails to understand that it could have created them yet chose not to, and now realise there is a struggle. Fans want new stars, not the old ones. Living in the past does not make worthwhile decisions for the public. Are they really willing to pay for this product when the big veterans who have become stale and outdated are the top of the bill? No. They come to see Del Rio using an armbar or Orton's RKO. They cheer for a knee to the face with a GTS.
With no reasoning to why Kane has returned, it is a shoddy choice many refuse to be a part of. Why are there so many streams on Justin.tv? Can you honestly expect the WWE Universe to pay hard earned cash for something they feel is cheap, has bad end result decisions to match endings and feuds not created, favourite stars undeveloped or bumped to Superstars or NXT, and extortionate prices for a bad card line up for wrestling principals?
All winners were babyfaces, not one feud was enhanced, and no victor was someone who was deserving, which is what the event was meant to be. Clearly WWE have lost touch with what this three hour event's aims were. To keep the audience going as well as feel rectified that a bleak 2011 would be the past and 2012 would deliver a new essence to a future with promise and intent to change the product a better way forward fans can support. The Royal Rumble is your chance to change it all once again and get back on course. Giving the wrong person the win, as well as not setting up a number of performers will be costly on all levels. You seriously need to look towards the future. Fans are irate, and losing patience. How long will it take before realising long term plans being kept for Wrestlemania can also be too long when the position of the company's non existent stars are turning viewers away from the lead up to the biggest extravaganza in WWE's calendar.
ps. With the redesign of the Womens/Diva's divison and feeding Punk some material for his lines after his initial promos, among words, angles and support to constructive advice to re developing as a star, giving Eve a role and keeping Alicia Fox in employment for the time being, Max Waltham clearly should've won Slammy for game changer of the year - just to let you know :p, as well as Divalicious of the year. Of course, one sets the Trends, others copy, they just don't acknowledge, but I know... and I mention. Because unlike most of the players in the business, I have true passion for it. (If only I had a promotion...). Anyone need a booker? :)
Until then... do whatever you like, I'm tired, work harder than you know and need rest. But more is coming... Still have 4 posts coming in days as well as TLC review! Follow, share, comment, subscribe, Tweet me, @MaxWaltham , Yadda Yadda...
The 17th October edition of WWE’s flagship show, Monday night Raw emanated from one of the biggest hotspots on the globe acclaimed for its wrestling notoriety – Mexico City.
The newly appointed interim General Manager, in human form, John Laurin –(how the frig do you spell this name?) –aitis, claimed he understood the needs of the WWE Universe. Apparently receiving Tweets all week (the show was pre-recorded after last week, in which JR was subsequently fired for the umpteenth time), John L had, shock, re-hired JR! Why he was fired to make John seem a listening force to the ailing product, was beyond us all. Michael Cole was a constant misery from this announcement of JR’s impending return.
A pointless angle again...
The main event match was announced for later. It will be hometown hero, Alberto Del Rio and Michael Cole against JR and, wait for it, John Cena. This time could have been used for enhancement to other characters, rather than a PPV building exercise between the two main WWE title battlers, come this Sunday at Vengeance.
Our first match was due. A 6 Man Tag featuring Randy Orton, Sheamus and John Morrison against World Champ Mark Henry, Christian and Cody Rhodes.
Told Rhodes will face Orton at Vengeance signalled the World title demotion for Orton. At least he is working with someone whom can contribute to his talents, and the company overall. (Henry will tackle the Big Show, read on for that one).
Maybe 3-4 years later, but at least we are getting it now...
A typical 6 man back and forth until Orton and Rhodes took to the outside chasing after one another. Rand then chased Rhodes all over the arena forcing him up the ramp towards the back where both disappeared through the arena. It then became a 4 man match up.
Rhodes on Orton...
Anyone watching may have thought Christian now has a chance to receive a win.
Mexico wanted wrestling. And WWE realised it. They got their geo-demographic right.
John Morrison became worked over by Henry, then Christian. With a kick backwards to Captain Ginger, Henry was tagged back in. Morrison almost got the hot tag, but big bad Markie halted just that.
Wasn't man of the match as some claim, though JoMo did work slightly.
Henry then applied the bearhug – a beautiful move that WWE does not like to incorporate on TV. But they realised this was the only move Henry’s figure could get away with. The bearhug is a very important and powerful manouveur, and should be re-implemented among TV, just not associated with a drab Henry match. Give it to a new and valid performer making their name, at least. Who in WWE would the audience like to hug? Even powerhouse Mason Ryan could have it. (Max Waltham would definatley use it on some. J
After a while Christian and Sheamus went at it, before the breath of boredom was sighed, and WWE finally ended the match. We did get a result on this one. Henry clubbed jobber Morrison down to the ground, and gave him a slam too. It was over. Morrison didn’t show any gumption here. He shouldn’t have won, though Henry’s win was once again, weak.
WWE must recognise that booking the Mark Henry/Big Show angle once again, in the space of 4-6 months, now with a title in place, no less, that this match is not any form of new or current. Who can possibly believe in these stars in 2011? No one. Those whom have to suffer 20 – 30 minutes at best with a sorry excuse for a match. Who in their right mind is willingly going to purchase PPV with them at the helm? Not a lot. It would have been beneficial to add a triple threat if nothing else and have a third man remove both of them from the World title picture. Even should Big Show win, it will still remain the same state of despair. And nothing will seemingly change to its audience, therefore decreasing viewing figures and faith in the WWE system.
After the seemingly long match, the Brodus Clay promos air for the 4th week running. Clay has yet to appear after his month long build up. It’s not looking good, is it? Even Clay would be welcomed over Henry and Big Show as World champion.
The Bella’s were once again booked as ‘fruit’ for the new GM. Placing their arms around John L, the Bella ‘tarts’ (fruit makes a tart, you see), Ricardo Rodriguez couldn’t get a word in after the GM took a phone call. How rude. Alberto Del Rio arrived. It was another office angle that lasted a few moments only, and became forgettable. One did wonder if the WWE ‘sound machine’ was on here. Woo’s seemed to turn to Boo’s. Hmmm.
Over a 4 month period Eve has done practically nothing. Tonight she was given a match. Facing Natalya, along with Beth, Michael Cole accurately proclaimed they were the “Sisters of Salvation”. Amen, Sister!
Natalya: Clearly earned her #4 spot in the top
50 Women's wrestler's list recently from PWI
WWE tried to make the sisters ‘equal’ to the inferior Divas. Making Natalya look completely weak by slapping the booty of Eve, (seriously?), making this company look incredibly short sighted. Eve may be a ‘better’ choice than Bimbo Bimbo, but is lacking on Natalya’s level. She needs to raise her game, not have WWE lower Natalya’s bar. I said bar. If Eve can perform ‘well’ and put on a match with either of the two in the future, it may just add a tiny fraction of 'meaning' to this crumbling ‘division’, seeing as it is severly short stacked. Eve defeated Natalya with the moonsault tonight.
Nose poker Eve and Pointer Bimbo Bimbo
Eve will challenge Phoenix at Vengeance for the Unified Women’s championship.
CM Punk fought The Miz next. Along with R – Truth, Miz berated Punk beforehand. He reminded Punk that he did “something you could not”. The Miz (and R-Truth) removed Triple H as the Chief Operating Officer of Raw, after Punk had tried to do so over the summer.
Vengeance was “gunna get ghot!” R-Truth proclaimed. He was also sick of those who “run their mouth”. R-Truth showed more gusto and deliverance in every word he stated than anyone in WWE. His character since the transformation months ago, which was agreed by WW that he had more options than John Morrison, broke away from jobber to elevate into the form of a star. If WWE really got behind this PR machine of R-Truth, instead of shelving it once Triple H came to power as COO, WWE would and still could have a serious competitor that the audience are already fully behind, as a breath of fresh air. RT would have been the first Black Champion many would have recognised as worthwhile in a long time. He has totally worked a fresh gimmick.
The WWE Universe "Suck!" Where would you like us Miz?
CM Punk seems to have become ‘just another guy’ after his summer fall out as champion and becoming saddled with the Kevin Nash/HHH/ Johnny Ace saga.
After beginning a match which wasn’t that different from when they both lost viewers a month or so ago, their match was cut off. Triple H, by the way, had joined his ‘friend’ CM Punk at ringside to even the odds. R-Truth did his “trademark” as Cole claims, which consisted of R-Tee smashing a bottle of water over Punk. Triple H came after him, who may want copyright infringements looked into. The Monday night Water Wars began!
NaNaNaNa , Hey Hey Hey....
John Laryngitis came at the most inappropriate time once again, and halted Triple H’s chasing of Truth. They had words. Interestingly enough, those not looking didn’t notice that the match had ‘stopped’. No one was seen in ring and all action ceased.
R-Truth did a comedic routine which was also key to storyline, in which he signalled Triple H, in pure DX fashion finger points and all, to wave on out to the back. Get tha steepin’ Triple H floored RT with a right hand. So much for not being a bully for the second time running. (At Hell In A Cell, HHH attacked The Miz when he left the Cell willingly, in handcuffs behind his back, defenceless).
See Video below for th R-Truth DX motion attack.
It was all about Triple H again. We were then treated to a commercial.
After the adverts, Tripper was shown being escorted from the parking lot /building. Triple H had a problem with his immigration papers, and the GM pledged he would sort it out as soon as he could, he mumbled. David Otunga was Ace’s right hand man in shot on this.
If Triple H had immigration problems, then he wouldn’t have been allowed into the country of Mexico, let alone the wrestling venue. This lackless thought of forward thinking doesn’t get over with the Universe. They question these angles, even if you think they won’t. WWE takes care in its angle’s keeping up pretences, yet they drop this flat on its backside.
And how exactly are the Universe meant to believe in this when, Triple H, someone who was fighting his ‘nemesis’ of righteous truths Max Waltham, oops, I mean CM Punk, that they are now best friends? Awww. Get a room!
The match between Miz and Punk continues on. Punk brings the swinging neckbreaker back to the wrestling world! It wasn’t enough, though. The Awesome Truth grew tired and ambushed, Punk once again. The ref attempted to break it up. CM Punk did get the win however. Seeing as the Awesome Truth will clearly job at Vengeance, it would not have hurt them to succeed here.
Punk getting his booty out again.
The cameraman messed this up.
We didn't need the front shots :@
Punk with the Macho Elbow
Triple H doesn’t do ‘jobs’. If you think he will put these two over, you are mistaken.
Violins! The Mexican Posse were shown on Raw. It was good to see they didn’t go with the stereotype of a sombrero or piñata. It was a bit of class.
Jack Swagger, Vickie Guerrero and Dolph Ziggler made an entrance shortly after. Vickie, who informed us that she was classed as a “goddess” in Mexico, in her beautiful ruffled dress as a sexy senorita, also said she was the Angelina Jolie of Mexico City. Now this is believable. She looked fantastic and upheld the image being presented. The WWE locker-room should look to this woman for inspiration. Even a Women’s title run is not out of the question.
A perfect shot for all 3 looking strong as a group. Just up to booking now.
Vickie, with her “business acumen” gained a major coup for her clients. ZigSwag will challenge AirBoom for the Unified Tag Titles at Vengeance. (Options coming below).
Angelina Jolie aint got
nothing on her!
Ziggler partook in verbal activities next. He gives us all advice on how to make it. And for the crowd that evening, they should “leave Mexico City and never go back” as he was from the best country on earth, and reigning champ of it – the US champion. At least this angle sold some prestige to the title, which is an inconsistency at this time. He told us we would “never make it”. Tight Ass.
The National Anthem was then sung by Mr.America, Jack Swagger. In the typical Sylvain Grenier / La Resistance booking, Swagger blamed the audience for “putting him off” – that’s annoying isn’t it? Get I Will Survive on the karaoke! Bring Back Jillian! She’s the only one who could sing and gather such interest.
Doing the Jillatonic(underneath).
Zack Ryder was then announced to have a match against Jack Swagger. A brief match for Zack, in which he won! Swagger was annoyed he was foiled by a seemingly lesser man. He and Dolph planned a pincer attack on Ryder from both sides of the outside ring mats toward the announce table. Zack was under attack.
The Brief Ryder/Swagger match below.
BeefyBro's? Ry squared? Either way it's hunkalicious! Team them!
A knight in shiny oil armour arrived. Beefcake Mason Ryan came! Ziggler would now go 1 on 1 with Ryan. A slap from Vickie, and a near countout later, Ziggler won by DQ. A beat down and powerslam of Ziggler also occurred.
RyRy could merge
Hopefully, ZigSwag will defeat AirBoom at Vengeance. Then, Ryan and Ryder forge a team that fans will be encouraged to support and build up. Both complement each other as a tandem. Much potential is there. A feuding series between both teams could carry this to Wrestlemania and beyond. Ziggler doesn’t need the US title while this goes on and can drop to a developing star.
Watching out for Vickie, don't get countout out!
And what of AirBoom? Isn’t it obvious? Kofi Kingston can turn heel and a new high flying feud which builds both men in the eyes of those who want both to succeed on different levels can be born. Doing them after Wrestlemania is too long, risky and will have lost interest by that time. Strike while the iron’s hot!
What's this?! Dolph Ziggler bows to Jack Swagger? :o
Ziggler is showing promise, and his work ethic is strong. But work ethic doesn’t win over with me, tough, maybe, but I need talent, performance and sheer gusto in wrestling principals. He still has a long way to go, but it’s slightly improving. How long for, I can’t tell you. I have an open mind as you know, and am waiting to be dazzled by anyone brave enough to take me on.
Jack is upset
JR and Cena, backstage in the locker-room, said Alberto was boring him. A snivelling rodent and pathetic S.O.B, JR claims Cole is. Whatever happens, JR “wants” Cole.
WWE didn't put a Product Placement logo up for Nike...
Michael Cole asks “can I have your attention please?! We haven’t missed that every week, but just WHO is the GM? Will I be sent my next email soon?
With claims of egotistical and being put out of their misery, our main event begins shortly.
Cena prepares for Cole, then tags in JR
WWE’s be a star campaign has now reached Celebrity endorsement! Clever WWE.
Del Rio Delight!
Toot Toot!!!!!!!! A linger from Ricardo Rodriguez, and Alberto Delllll RiiiiiiiiO is here!
Cole came out in his, as Jerry Lawler put it, “Vintage” orange singlet and head gear. You may remember it from when the man he sits next to, Jerry Lawler and Cole had a feud in February, travelling on past its shelf life. Lawler did apologise for it.
Cole started the match, in which he wanted JR. Cena willingly accepted and formerly tagged in JR. Cole taunts JR, until Oklahoma’s finest clubs Cole down to the mat. Perplexed, Cole instantly tags Del Rio. The WWE Champion enters with a hasty stride towards JR, whom quickly manages to tag Cena back in.
Cole finds himself in a rock and a hard place...
Headlocks and running the ropes, both did their versions one after the other, before Del Rio beats down Cena. Cena mentioned before the match that Alberto Del Rio has never beaten him. Would he be rewarded a home victory?
Wonderful shot again
With a lift-over and choke submission hold, Del Rio, grabbing the armbands, caused a backdrop to form and slammed Cena down to the canvas. A few pinfalls, with a german suplex also, only amounted to two falls for Alby.
Boomer Sooner!
An arm lock, flip over, then a beautiful double axe handle from Del Rio off the top rope turnbuckle, then delivered a leg choke to which, Rio, afterwards communicated more instructions to clueless Cena. They were held up for a lengthy time, while Del Rio mouthed instructions to Cena. Ones he had been receiving since every lock up/submission hold throughout the match.
SuperCena arrived, diluting all momentum built to just “reverse it in the last few seconds” – that , surely enough, is the biggest insult to wrestling. Regardless of whom the ‘offender’ is doing it. Wrestling maybe a process, but this is one we do not need participating.
Beautifully executed
After a whirl slam, the 5 Knuckle sh*t fall came, then delivered the tag to JR (and Cole at roughly the same time), in which JR clasped on the ankle lock and Cole playfully submitted. JR wanted this defining moment, and he got it. But it was only to enhance Cena. Anyone else, he may have lost, due to the Vince McMahon humiliation episodes.
Cena and JR wrapped this up. Filled with whirl side slams, and Del Rio dominating the entire match, should Alberto fail to defeat Cena at Vengeance, it would an utter disaster for WWE and will send a clear message that Del Rio’s character shall then become worthless. If WWE have brains, they will know what they are doing. But many do not have faith in that position.
Maybe that’s why Linda isn’t ‘in’. Imagine Vince as a politician. Would you vote for him or anyone in WWE’s power market to make your life changing decisions? When they can easily lose the plot?
Cena gets all the best jobs! :@
JR got his reward afterall
After the match, Cena decided to count. Confusing, right? He picked up some steel steps, then sent them crashing into a lying down Del Rio. John Cena, whose morals state you shouldn’t bully or do any of what he just did, sent a message to the ‘kids’ that it is ok to pick up steps and smash then viciously into a person’s head. Are YOU brain dead?
Del Rio does the starfish spread :)
After this ‘count’, culminating at 10, Cena said it was obvious, in his monotonic voice. After taking so long it became boringly evident. They will face off at Vengeance in a Last Man Standing Match.
Staggering to feet, still maintaining hotness
and a ripped physical body in dualism
It should be noted that WWE turned on it's sound machine once again. The ‘sound machine’ is a piece of apparatus that means WWE can change the output of a recorded show to alter many things in a certain favour. In this case, Cena received many ‘cheers’. Cena actually had many more Boo’s but WWE altered this so that the viewing audience assume he was cheered. This was implemented many times while Cena was a part of the Smackdown brand. That’s how TV works kids, and the WWE, of course.
So, to clarify, Del Rio “hasn’t defeated” Cena once. He worked the whole match in his hometown and was not allowed a win. If he fails to win the LMS match at Vengeance, then what hope is there left for anyone to get over in WWE?
Wasn't rewarded a home victory
RESULTS
Mark Henry (World Heavyweight Champion), Christian and Cody Rhodes (Intercontinental Champion) def. John Morrison, Sheamus & Randy Orton
Eve w/Kelly Kelly def. Natalya w/Beth Phoenix (Diva’s/Unified Women’s Champion)
CM Punk def. The Miz
Zack Ryder def. Jack Swagger
Dolph Ziggler (US Champion) def. Mason Ryan via DQ
John Cena & “JR” Jim Ross def. Alberto Del Rio (WWE Champion) & Michael Cole
Brief Note: It was also announced that WWE Legends will all live in a house together as part of a new show for the WWE Network. Is this WWE's version of Big Brother?
The naming angle again... December To Dismember?
A WWE Mania Rewind was also "voted" for as the first show to be screened over the Network Hardly a difficult choice was it, considering the 'offerings'.
