Santino Marella officially retires

WWE funnyman retires after third neck injury

WWE superstar Santino Marella announced his official retirement on July 6th at a house show in Ontario after suffering a third neck injury.

Marella, real name Anthony Carelli, 35, was well known for being WWE’s comedy superstar involving a glove puppet as a Cobra snake.

The Canadian superstar first joined WWE in April 2007 and swiftly won the Intercontinental title as his Italian comedy star.

Carelli has since opened a training centre in Toronto in July 2013 specialising in wrestling and mixed martial arts. He is said to be likely to be in demand from WWE for potential new call ups as well as a potential trainer to WWE. Marella is keen to remain for WWE in a non-physical role. He has also been a regular with online videos and anti-bullying campaigns on behalf of the company.

He has also teased a future General Manager role, which would clearly require Marella to be serious instead of comedic to interest the audience.

© Max Waltham 12th July 2014

Who should win the Intercontinental title?

Who would benefit from the IC title 

victory at WWE Battleground?

After Monday’s revelation the vacant Intercontinental Championship will be defended in a 20 Man over the top rope Battle Royal, at the coming Pay Per View Battleground, who would benefit most from the prestigious title gain? Below, Max Waltham looks at who may be capable enough and whose career is in swift need of a reboot.

The IC title is one that can raise a star back onto the WWE platform and give them back their drive and fan faith to the business in light of company favourites clogging up the heavyweight titles. Many are deserving of the title capture and can have multiple options if the winner is someone who can bind all the competitors together for months than one win momentum.

The candidates for the win would be, in no particular order, Rob Van Dam, Antonio Cesaro, Curtis Axel, Alberto Del Rio, Kofi Kingston, Damien Sandow and Dean Ambrose.

WWE are likely to favour Alberto Del Rio, Van Dam or Cesaro. Whilst we have championed Del Rio for regaining his stride from WWE with a needed lift to be granted none of them should win. Why not? It makes further sense to give the title to someone that will bind competitors together over months of television and gather much needed fan adoration. This can also rebuild their star which for all of the above is dipping. By working together all of those mentioned can become better for themselves and drive entertainment to WWE fans.

The initial thought of Curtis Axel gaining the gold is good, however, we go against this. Fickle or wise? It is simple. Curtis Axel needs to win the title as a challenger to the champion. Therefore someone like Rob Van Dam as a victor will re-invigorate the audience, the performer and the competitor. Opening a new feud between Van Dam and Axel would be a newer way forward of interest. Floating around the scene would be Del Rio and Cesaro, also involved with matches as challengers with Axel to widen the IC scene and boost their repertoires. This will re-create Axel, give him the much needed split from Ryback and be a strong singles player once more. Four way matches or six mans can even commence. It is doubtful Kofi will gain the title after causing an eye injury to Cesaro on Raw last week, but can provide participation for the scenery. With Ambrose also hovering around, the WWE has a mid-level scene fans could respect, as well as its players, which will eventually lead some back to the path of the heavyweight gold as a valid contender in the future. Van Dam as a victor would, again, re-boost the star and the WWE landscape. Since previous doubt, Van Dam has taken constructive criticism and turned into a reborn star who can elevate much needed scenarios for the company.

If WWE get it right, they will have a chance to regain their superstars who have peaked and prove to fans the mid-level title is meaningful. The WWE itself will prove it can cater to fan needs, especially in a time of programming crisis.

© Max Waltham 07^th July 2014

WWE Diva arrested for theft

Clumsy dancing diva fired for 

swiping tablet case holder  

WWE dancing diva Emma was arrested for theft hours prior to Monday’s Raw show in Hartford, Connecticut. Emma, real name Tenille Dashwood, 25, was accused of swiping an iPad mini case costing up to $250 or less, which placed her under suspicion of sixth-degree larceny.

After being rushed into a community court on early Tuesday, she has been charged with community service and will see her charge dismissed once served. Emma was allegedly using a self-checkout machine at Wal-mart, purchasing roughly $30 of items but merely forgot to beep the fruit case.  The case cost $21.14.

She could have faced three months imprisonment and a $500 fine for her blunderous arm movements.

Emma was a recent call up to the main WWE roster to dance with weird arm movements with resident goofball Santino Marella and his Cobra puppet. She quickly proved slightly popular with fans over her addition to the divas division.

WWE took action and firmly released Emma to avoid a publicity storm. WWE then issued statement after re-hiring her following the court proceedings.

“Upon further evaluation, WWE has reinstated Tenille Dashwood (WWE Diva Emma) but will take appropriate punitive action for her violation of the law.” – WWE.com

Many fans find it confusing in contrast with how WWE allowed Jack Swagger to maintain his job last year after being busted with illegal substances and was soon thrust into the main event for the heavyweight title at WWE’s biggest PPV, Wrestlemania.

© Max Waltham 03^rd July 2014

WWE Money in the Bank 2014

WWE Money in the Bank 2014

Live from the TD Garden in Boston on Pay Per View on Sunday 29^th June, would WWE deliver a new hope for fans? Would it crown a new champion and/or a rising star fans can rally behind? Or will it conform to old habits and provide awe intriguing experience for hard-up fans parting with their cash for such entertainment? Let’s find out…

WWE Tag Team Championship

Erick Rowan and Luke Harper Vs The Uso’s (c)

After their uneventful organ entrance music, the Wyatt Family members began a fierce entry to the match up. A power clothesline from Harper took off an Uso from the ring apron making Jey Uso unavailable to tag. Eventually both teams tagged their respective others. Jimmy Uso lands the Samoan Drop on both well. Following with a high risk corkscrew aerial manoeuvre led to an Uso two fall only.

Jimmy followed with a great superkick to the face of Harper. Jey ran in with a jumping kick. Harper was then rolled up by Jimmy. Harper retaliated with a close powerbomb scoring a two fall. Harper flew outside with another impressive move for his size. Jimmy then followed out to Rowan. Harper flies at Jimmy. Cena’s daddy was then spotted at ringside.

A two fall after the double powerbomb attack came, broken up by Uso number two. JBL adds “He’s about to be WWE tag team champion” as Rowan climbs the top. He was then dropped down onto the ropes. Tag made in Uso corner. Both go for Rowan on turnbuckle. Double superplex by The Uso’s. Tag made again as Uso jumps and other Uso follows with another splash to cover for the three fall to retain the WWE Tag titles in a powerfully charged opener.

WWE Divas Championship

Paige (c) Vs Naomi w/ Cameron

Fluke champion Paige came to defend the title in yet another random thrown together chance opportunity. The action went to the outside instantly headlocking already. After the diversion to avoid her weak aptitude Paige was back in the ring with Naomi as both did double dropkicks simultaneously. Paige was then flung off the apron to the outside by the hair. 

Naomi followed with a mesmeric high fly body over the ropes. Cross body by Naomi in-ring continued very well. Paige then spins over to a pin attempt. Break up continued by empty roll up counters. Naomi slips Paige into submission. Loud screams unconvincingly from Paige were tiresome. Even Cameron wasn’t thrilled. Paige forces the break for reverse horribly clumsy with footing release into a pin by Naomi. Going to the top was stopped by Paige. Suplex attempt by Paige was botched as she dropped Naomi and herself to the outside. 

After already injuring Tamina two months ago on PPV, Paige’s inaccuracy with inadequacy is a huge concern for WWE. Paige kicks Naomi to the face on the ground of the in-ring mat. She then lifts Naomi’s leg up as a guitar string, which could have been good. Loud screams with no pressure made it look entirely awful and careless. Fly through clothesline by Naomi with stong offence took Paige down. Naomi Moonsault missed by cheap leg up by Paige. The defending diva tries to lock in the submission converted into a roll up by Naomi’s athleticism. Naomi gets the work done into hold as Paige then gets a cheap DDT drop in hold. Flunkie Paige retains the title after a tepid finisher to maintain a purely uneventful freebie title run, further disgracing the diva’s division today.

Can you remember any of her matches?

Impromptu

Adam Rose Vs Damien Sandow

Travelling looney tune Adam Rose arrived to have a match with Damien Sandow. Sandow came dressed looking like Captain Blackbeard. WWE claimed he was a “Paul Revere” lookalike. Sandow was flipped outside. “Taunted by a burger” JBL added. It was a hot dog actually. That’s the Rosebuds for you. Lunacy at every turn. Damien Sandow held strong offence in the mockery battle. Sandow was then caught by Rose who was butt juggling from the top rope in hold from a running into hold Sandow. Sandow quickly dominated Rose again. Rose made a typical comedy comeback from nothing. Sandow was heavily cheered. A tense Full Nelson back slam should have ended the battle but gained a two fall. Boos were loud at an Adam Rose kickout. Damien Sandow misses a cracking Moonsault launch as goofy Adam Rose drops a knee slam into the ground for a non-eventful three fall. A quiet arena was watching as Rose looks lost while the Rosebuds walk back down the ramp to celebrate an empty toilet break.  

Money in the Bank, Contract

8 Man, Ladder

Rob Van Dam Vs Seth Rollins Vs Dean Ambrose Vs Kofi Kingston Vs Dolph Ziggler Vs Jack Swagger w/ Zeb Colter Vs Bad News Barrett

“Im afraid I’ve got some Baaaad Newwwwws!” Prior to the match on Smackdown, Bad News Barrett broke his shoulder with an injury, out for months. This will certainly excuse him to have another return run. As previously stated, Barrett is fodder at best. It was an uneventful title run as it stood, anyway. The title has now been vacated on the post MITB Raw and will be on the line in a Battleground 20 Man over the top rope Battle Royal.

Ambrose goes for Rollins as the pair start outside by the announcers. Kofi runs up and over Swagger’s ladder to hit RVD. The Kofi drop on the ladder to Swagger was followed next. Ambrose trips over outside Kofi Kingston. Ambrose now climbs as Seth Rollins rushes in. Pair pull one another off the ladder as Ambrose smacks him into the steel. Double arm suplex into stacked corner ladder by Ambrose was strong by both. Jack Swagger comes in. Dolph Ziggler, RVD and Kofi are back in. Ambrose empties as Swagger is out. Ziggler and Kofi now climb up the ladder. Rollins smacks the ladder through the stacked one, through the ‘A’ opening of ladder at Kofi. Be careful not to go under it, your career will go with it. Ask Jack Swagger.

RVD stops Rollins. Rollins on the bottom rope ladder laying horizontal gets a great RVD rolling thunder splash. Ambrose came in to be sent over as “you still got it to” was yelled to RVD by the crowd. Five Star Frog Splash on Swagger followed. RVD climbs. Kofi is up as the pair have a punch off as RVD falls. Swagger back in. Ladder smashed into Swagger as Kofi gives a great back leg kick to RVD. Jack hits into the back of Kingston with a ladder and tries to superplex RVD from top rope, failing with a headbutt knocking him down. RVD atop the ladder from corner taunts his thumbs as Rollins climbs behind to fight. RVD tries to hit Rollins down as Swagger miraculously climbs back up and Rollins powerbomb drops RVD with Jack Swagger in a three man move. Ambrose returns to Rollins for the almighty superplex as Ambrose bounced extraordinarily and looked like he bumped his head badly. It was convincing and exceptional from both.  Ambrose could have suffered a legit injury.

Swagger flips Ziggler into the ladder held by Ambrose. Kofi returns to be hurled. Drops ladder onto Kingston. Swagger belly drop. A scramble by Rollins and Ambrose in quick pacing. Ambrose beats Rollins off. Ambrose is then caught by Swagger with a bad slam countered into a DDT by Amrbose. Ambrose nudges Rollins, who returned to the ladder climb behind with one arm to save match keeping up the pain of his hand. Hurt from the hard collision from Sawgger, Ambrose soon faked injury. The officials ruled he be sent to the back for medical attention and he left.

Seth Rollins continues climbing. RVD arrives. Kofi sets ladder between ropes and ladder rung in middle to join behind RVD. RVD falls. Kofi tips Rollins as Rollins now falls onto the ladder and bounces as the ladder falls beneath him. Luckily he was unhurt. Kofi almost unhooks the case as Dolph Ziggler stops him.  

Ziggler climbs as Swagger catches him into the ankle lock. Ziggs kicks Swagger off and is hand stretches away from the golden briefcase. Ziggles gets a hand on it. It was the closest he could be affored as everyone getting their turn. Rollins returns with a chair and whacks Ziggler’s leg. Ambrose makes a stunning recovery just as the crowd cheered “We want Ambrose” in predictable fashion. This wasn’t down to fans, this was already in the mix beforehand.

Ambrose climbs. Kane’s pyro goes off as Ambrose is atop the ladder. Kane pulls off Ambrose and chokeslams his chances of winning. Demonic Kane gives the Tombstone piledriver for good measure. Seth Rollins climbs with one arm as Kane steadies the ladder. Rollins unhooks the case and becomes the Money in the Bank victor for 2014.

Ego maniac Triple H came out to clap and congratulate Rollins along with Stephanie. Once again Triple H makes it about himself. How to ruin a new age prospect? Have an ego maniac latching onto fan favourites for appeal to call up and fail miserably. Rollins is his last hope at attaining credibility and Triple H could become the failure of Rollins if he gets too involved.

Tag Team

Ryback and Curtis Axel Vs Cody Rhodes and Goldust

In a leotard and beanie hat once more made Axel, who is growing once again look slightly stupid as a performer despite his efforts to work well.  Further to lunacy, Cody Rhodes came out as ‘Stardust’ where he dresses exactly like Goldust. Rhodes looks like a complete embarrassment.

Ryback in. Rhodes showing off. No moves made, just moving around flamboyantly. Goldust tagged in. Axel from outside helps. Tagged in with aggressive action. Tag to Ryback. Tag back after boring run around. Axel takes near fall. Good ground work. Tag back. Quiet crowds heard from the top seats stirring a “Goldberg” chant. Ryback patters his chest like a cheap King Kong.

‘Stardust’ getting a few quick, cheap moves on tag in, as predicted. Axel sent over the top rope by Goldust pulling outside. Counters a slam from Ryback into a Cross Rhodes to get a two fall, broke by Axel. Cody moves out the way as Axel hits into Ryback and Cody Rhodes gets a roll up to secure a limp three fall win.

Axel attacks after the match. The lights magically turn a putrid yellow as Goldust comes in and Rhodes does another goof off moment.

What a complete waste of time as an act. Already running on empty it’s a safe bet Stephanie probably wishes she kept ‘em future endeavoured since last year.   

Summer Rae and Layla’s war of words is now shown. Rae said he liked “long legs” as Layla claimed Fandango wanted to be “abreast” of a woman. Fandango needs to go gay. Ditch ‘em both. More hassle than it’s worth, hunny. Next up? A different match.

Rusev w/ Lana Vs Big E.

“Shut Up!” Lana tells the American fans. After the patriotism is over, Big E. arrives. Big E. takes the early lead knocking Rusev with shoulder barge to the outside. Run into knee from Rusev upon re-entry. Rusev suplex. Belly to Belly return by Bigster. Roll into pin after Rusev caught by run into sweep slam. The pin was not clean.

Rusev was easily seen waiting to kick out before the count. Big E. charged out the ring at Rusev as both fell into the mat. Big E. landed his head into the ground again. These are serious problems WWE must address. Rusev smacks a huge kick followed with upper kick to floor Big E. Rusev screams as Lana yells “crush!” as Big E. is forced into submission. It wasn’t the most flattering pose for Big E’s eye movements in hold. Big E. had no alternative but to tap out to Rusev.

Special Referee

Summer Rae Vs Layla

Special Referee – Fandango

Layla threw kitty litter over Rae on Main Event. Summer Rae dressed as a chicken come gobbledy gooker in a costume as one of Adam Rose’s Rosebuds for a Raw attack. Fandango was later kissed by Summer Rae. They broke up on Twitter and had an argument. Okay, everything clear?

Layla smacked a big kick with a smile and took the win in an easy match. This was the only interesting action after a few minutes in a pointless battle. Layla shared a sexy kiss for her beau Fandango. Layla followed with a twirl back kick in the face to Summer Rae, which was good, visibly upset in the ring. “Oh poor Summer” Michael Cole said.

Why Rae was fighting for Fandango months after they split was plain ridiculous. Hey, Fandango IS that irresistible, by WWE standards.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship

8 Man, Ladder

Sheamus Vs Bray Wyatt Vs John Cena Vs Randy Orton Vs Alberto Del Rio Vs Kane Vs Antonio Cesaro w/ Paul Heyman Vs Roman Reigns

Once again Triple H and Stephanie arrive and make it all about HHH’s ego. When will he ever step aside and let a star grow? Both sat ringside.

Huge boo’s rang for John Cena in hometown Boston. Will WWE ever learn from it?

Will WWE split the titles? Will they hold it up for SummerSlam?

Kane and Orton start taking early control. Cesaro and Del Rio ladder run into Kane outside and batter ram Orton. Wyatt sneaks in and charges them both down. Cena animatedly yells as lifting Wyatt, who reverses Cena onto the ladder. Sheamus and Reigns have a try to climb. Sheamus and Reins both with ladders sandwich Kane. Cole informs which ever title is grabbed both fall together to dispel the title split two winners rumour.

Kane drops down Cesaro, reigns and Sheamus. Kane helps Orton up to titles. Reigns knocks them over. Reigns climbing as The Authority worriedly look on. Wyatt breaks it up. Cena returns for the Attitude Adjustment. Antonio Cesaro charges in with an uppercut and charges to the titles with one hand on them. Sheamus runs up there with him as Bray crawls around below in the crab. Gaining a new momentum, Bray knocks the ladder away as Cesaro and Sheamus punch one another dangling on the titles without a ladder. Cesaro was the dangling delight, soon knocked down.

We also see a nasty collision of Orton being hit by stray ladder on the head, form earlier on, who continued on in the match. Reigns threw the ladder into his head rather carelessly in the heavy rush. Sheamus stacks the ladder between the ring and announcer table, soon smacked into the ladder, which falls. Resting, Sheamus climbs atop but Orton tips him down. Orton drops a smooth DDT from the ladder to cheers.

Everyone in on all sides of the ladder. A Brogue Kick to Cena a little later when all is settling from Sheamus, stopped by Kane, who hits into the steps outside. Cesaro on the outside with a long ladder places between top corner and ladder rung as Sheamus climbs. Both trade blows again. Reigns tries to stop Sheamus as Rio shoves a ladder through to stop only for Cena to stop Rio’s attempt. Reigns returns to tip the ladders now on one leg slanted like a triangular pyramid. Hmm, I wonder. Cesaro and Sheamus fight for the title. Lovely boy Cena tips the ladder, with all his faked might like lifting an Atlas stone, back upright from the tilt. All are back in. Cena slammed off by Wyatt. Sheamus had strong hands on the titles as Kane and Orton stop him. He may have almost botched it and won by accident.

Roman Reigns spears Kane to be knocked under the ladder. Could he be joining the Swagger path? Orton knocked by Superman punch when trying an RKO. Sheamus and Del Rio were stopped by Roman. Wyatt stopped. Spear to Antonio outside. Cena creeps back in as the pair stare down. Both trade blows to test Reigns’ likeability. Reigns sets the ladder as The Authority yell for Kane. Orton stops Reigns. Backbreaker from the ladder to Reigns as Orton re-climbs. Wyatt plants Sister Abigail on Randy instead. Wyatt climbs stopped by Del Rio. A rapid enzighuri and smashing superkick put Rio in the lead. Rio got his hands on the gold as Sheamus tips the ladder and Brogue Kick’s Rio.

Now its Sheamus’ turn. Cesaro gets back in and pulls Sheamus’ leg off and uppercuts perfectly, with a strong Neutraliser to follow. Orton drops the RKO on Antonio now. “Randy Orton is going to win it here tonight” Cole speaks. Roman Reigns joins instantly. Orton;s butt cleavage was wonderfully seen as Reigns grabbed his pants beautifully. Wasn’t long enough to see though. Reigns headbutts Orton off as Kane then Chokeslams Reigns. Kane holds the ladder as Orton scales. Cena Attitude Adjusts Kane. Does the same to Orton slamming on top of Kane. Cena rapidly climbs. John Cena easily unhooks the titles without any struggle to become a fifteen time WWE World Heavyweight Champion and closes the PPV on a sour note for fans.

PPV Rating – 7/10

Men/Women of their matches – Jimmy Uso, Naomi, Damien Sandow, Dean Ambrose, Curtis Axel, Big E., Layla, Antonio Cesaro

Man/Woman of the PPV – John Cena

After a necessary title vacancy from unfortunate Daniel Bryan, WWE, as we added, could have put the title on Cena to make money until the SummerSlam clash. Hopefully WWE will drop Cena to Brock Lesnar. A two month reign for marketing can be accepted if WWE focus elsewhere for years after. Most knew the outcome but were hopeful a Cesaro clash might arrive. If Lesnar doesn’t win at SummerSlam then it should have put the title on Cesaro or Del Rio to re-establish them as the key WWE players that they are.

Layla and Summer Rae was a colossal waste of time. Neither showed any skills or real future for WWE.

Curtis Axel need to keep the bandana off and the leotard to copy Ryback was not very fulfilling. Axel is the stronger of the two and WWE need to re-elevate Axel, who is slightly on the rise again and a future WWE long-haul. He needs a tender approach donated from up above.

WWE could not let Rollins win clean even if he is a dirty scoundrel. When Van Dam tries and is pushed, he delivers. Both were exceptional in their re-found chemistry together. Dean Ambrose also shone as the star player. Knowing he wouldn’t win, he excelled himself, not just because of the bounce drop.  The rest were jobbers and made the match very empty as a result. Kofi, without all the jumping tomfoolery, proved to be very capable in the match.

The Damien Sandow mocking continues. The funniness of this, however, is that Sandow trumps all he battles with and makes them look the fool, despite a loss. Sandow proved how over he is in skill, ability, and even likeable and respected when trying not to be. Adam Rose needs a rework.

Naomi held the entire match together and was almost injured by a calamitous move by an inexperienced novice. Paige was called up too early by Triple H to latch onto fan popularity. He has none, and the divas have lost Tamina due to haphazard inexperience.  Paige will have lost the title by the time you read this on the following Monday night Raw, to a returning AJ, reclaiming the divas title to a rapturous celebration.  All in all, when you cannot back it up and get flunkie wins from jobbers, your career is not going anywhere. Lack of respect and ignorance doesn’t help, either.  If people think how to repent, they might just figure out how to return their careers. Though many fail to realise and are vividly ungracious and ignorant instead, especially the British Wrestling scene at this time. It is something that shames and fails to move the UK business influence on worldwide for its failures to connect on a respective level. The notion it ‘works together’ is poppycock that shames them all. It affects the in-ring actions of all. You can’t do that forever without a downturn.

Rusev was the traditional level of empty block, but the angle works in the sense that he has a place on the card. However it is limited and he needs to use this as a training period, to get some in-ring understanding and better his skills. Or else he won’t be a bigger star WWE had hoped for. So far he is carried by the ravishing Lana and others, in this case Big E who kept it fair despite a few stumbles.

Tag The Uso’s put in a strong fight but are seen as not having done much as a team since Triple H once again got bored of tag wrestling since his best friends weren’t involved any longer. Harper and Rowan have proved very capable and surprisingly fresh for the scene. It was too early for them to get the gold though and may see a future series instead.

For WWE SummerSlam is fast approaching. Figuring out how to make it a red hot affair and keep interest in the WWE is crucial. It needs to create newer opportunities and show fans there is a real opportunity for change, backed up with such forthright decisions. These may restore WWE fans to maintain faith in the disastrous WWE Network.

WWE should ditch the Network asap and not get in too deep. Pulling out early will not make WWE look as weak as it thinks. McMahon dislikes being seen as any level of failure and the longer they hold onto the Network, it will destroy all WWE hopes to achieve. It really isn’t needed either and the content isn’t special. It’s only PPV’s and a couple of extras with pre-shows. Forget Netflix or YouTube and be original. Something McMahon always used to have WWE fans respect for. Throwing away fortunes on loose concepts benefits no-one.

With multiple streaming issues online and with gaming consoles, fans have already began cancelling.

As for the show, MITB once again delivered for WWE in the right places, but required more credible card placing. Fans hope Battleground is not simply a replay.

© Max Waltham 01^st July 2014

WWE release 10 wrestlers and a referee

WWE let scores of roster staff go 

in drastic cost cutting measures

The week has been a long and testing one in WWE, especially for eleven members of the payroll. WWE released eleven employees from its roster last Thursday after reports WWE were “allowing contracts to run out” and would not be renewing them.

The money saving extravaganza is said to be a decision brought on by the ill-fated WWE Network which is costing way over budget for WWE to barely make a profit let alone break even. They hope the international release markets will boost the revenues after last month WWE Chairman Vince McMahon believed he was lied to by his money making teams.

If the projections are dipping into WWE’s purse at such an alarming rate then they really should consider pulling the plug on the Network before they get in too deep, regardless of trying to make the concept work. It was doomed from the get go. Let it go and save finances. It is nothing special, anyway.

The eleven talents released are listed below, with brief analysis of their departures.

The first batch of no surprises were the unfortunate Yoshi Tatsu, who never got a break, benched high flyer Evan Bourne, who WWE gave numerous chances to and Curt Hawkins. Joining them were JTG (who many were shocked lasted this long) and Camacho. There was no place for him since he lost his tag partner to a blue mask.

Slight shocks but not massively were the releases of Brodus Clay, whom WWE could have make a bigger headliner if it tried and Aksana, who WWE had grand plans for to be the next star diva. Despite her efforts with training, she just didn’t have enough in the tank.

Theodore Long also joined the list after years with WWE as did two members of 3MB, Jinder Mahal and Drew McIntyre. Since being “the chosen one” McIntyre was never fit enough to make it. It’s just how it goes in WWE. Referee Marc Harris who was upset with another referee months ago over a botched finish was not respected for such outburst and was sent packing.

Before Monday’s Raw, Chairman McMahon let lead writer Jay Gibson go as well.

More are said to follow. WWE hasn’t had its annual culls for at least two years so it was inevitable that some releases were on the way at some point. It was simply the timing that was most surprising to fans.

Though more are to go, WWE have a few names it should, feasibly, let go. The ignorant Kalisto in NXT, who shows no real skill in developmental should not have been lured by egotist fan approval seeker Triple H. It should let him go and focus on overs. Same goes for equally ignorant loser Solomon Crowe. They just don’t have it.

Ryback, of course, is never going to materialise and the best thing WWE can do is let him leave. Jack Swagger adds nothing and would also be an adequate release. Cameron is absolutely hopeless, but WWE are low on divas again, and don’t want wrestling females. They already sent out requests for more models.

There is growing restlessness in WWE that the Network is costing performers chances at earning pay and television time.

Ex-WWE nomad Chris Jericho stuck the boot in for good measure too. Ever critical of WWE, inclusive of his rude attitude toward being named No.10 best speakers in a WWE list (which is generous) Y2J spoke of the releases. Talking about Drew McIntyre, Jericho said “When you’re in 3MB it’s the end of the road” and praised Drew as “unique” as “he’s got the Scottish accent.” Delusional Jericho cheered fan favourite pint sized luchador Evan Bourne and tried to get both of them and line himself up for a job with the new Global Wrestling Force arrival later this year. Jeff Jarrett should not be taking advice from a wannabe rock star failure if he wants a serious and credible brand untainted by ignorance. Jericho is the past, not the future. His radio rants will keep him happy in his sandbox with the fans. As a credible force in wrestling, leave it to the professionals.

David Otunga and Justin Gabriel are likely to go soon. WWE have quite a lot of announcers too, and Layla, Xavier Woods and The Great Khali are strong possibilities to go later. I don’t know why, but Tom Phillips has a cute smile and I’d like the opportunity to see more of him and have a chance.

WWE could and should invest more time in developmental, acquire the correct and non-ignorant and wasteful losers who won’t contribute to a future. It needs to call up some new faces, but have strong options too. It shouldn’t be rushed, but many care and attention is needed, not Triple H’’s call ups to get fan approval. The recent calls of Paige and Adam Rose have been pathetic wastes of time. Paige has injured divas in the ring and been highly inexperienced and insufficient. These decisions make WWE look entirely weak, something they hate to be seen as. Rose is a no-hoper. Even choosing daft jobbers as his entourage contains levels of ignorance that ruins the company honour.

WWE seriously need to think about restructuring its management team, creative issues, call ups and outside influences that could really deliver for the company. Failing this, WWE has a tough few years ahead which could be a crippling loss for the future of its wrestling empire. 

© Max Waltham 18^th June 2014

WWE Payback 2014

WWE’s Payback PPV is often known for serving up its rare, unusual and best cards in spite of mid-month PPV booking calamities. The most apparent and outstanding bout was a hidden gem between the pre-show combatants. Coming live from the All-state Arena in Rosemont, Illinois on Sunday June 1st 2014 fans had questions. Would WWE strip Daniel Bryan of the gold? Would the short stacked card deliver what was necessary for fun filled fandom. The final question resurfaced. Would CM Punk return? Read on to find out.

Pre-Show

Hair vs Mask match

El Torito w/ Los Matadores Vs Hornswoggle w/ 3MB

Now you know why Hornswoggle grew a hideous bunch of hair. It was a slight letdown however when Hornswoggle shaver El Torito was met with no resistance from Hornie. Alas the match was superb for midget wrestling, often classed as plain ridiculous under WWE standards. This one was a great exception. Outside interference was natural and supported the placement well. The pair held a well together match worthy of the main card.

United States Championship

Sheamus (c) Vs Antonio Cesaro w/ Paul Heyman

“I am here to advocate for a Paul Heyman guy.” Paul Heyman spoke. “CM Punk” bellows from the crowd over the former Max Waltham Paul Heyman guy.

“I’m sorry, he’s not here tonight.”  Heyman answered.

Upon an instant, one second arrival Sheamus was heavily boo’ed by the Chicago fans. Cesaro came out looking like a fool marching with his puffed out chest in a bold stance that did not suit him in the jacket.

Sloppy Sheamus began charging into Cesaro like a wayward brute. Fast paced effort from both not to seem boring was appreciated.  Sheamus was viciously boo’ed. WWE’s lacking of star building and muscle favouritism has proved costly. Cesaro German suplex pin in hold missed, reversed by backbreaker pin for a two count from Sheamus.

Texas Cloverleaf by Sheamus. Cesaro grabs the ropes. Caught into swing, Sheamus spins for twenty-one revolutions. Sheamus swang well in hold. Sheamus then quickly gains a small package roll up after a twenty-one swing spin fest. That’s right, in WWE, the strongest of stars can avoid being dizzy and give no sells to the competitor which mocks the performers, titles and fans. The roll up fluke victory for Sheamus left fans peeved, regardless of Antonio Cesaro’s loss. It was about feeling conned. It felt lame.

Tag Team

Cody Rhodes and Goldust Vs Ryback and Curtis Axel

The mash up music is loud annoying and stupid for the Rhodes Brothers. Last time as Michael McGuillicutty, we told Curtis Axel not to wear a bandana type apparel again. His career failed as a result. He came out in a putrid red beanie hat which makes him completely ridiculous, just when he was starting to turn his career around.

WWE expected fans to go through this pathetic late addition match of no interest. It’s a sad time for WWE if this is the best spread they can lay out. Crowds where only chanting “Let’s go Axel”.

Fans were fed up so much they then chanted “Let’s Go Goldberg” in defiance before instantly boo’ing Ryback when making a comeback. The fans are telling you all you need to know. They are sick of it.

Cody Rhodes failed to make any impact as the in-ring failure was Shell Shocked by Ryback after Curtis Axel was dumped to the outside to pick up the empty victory. “You need a better tag team partner than me. “Cody Rhodes told brother Goldust.

Rusev w/ Lana Vs Big E.

Lana annoyed the crowd with an ode to Vladimir Putin as the greatest leader. This was the change for Rusev to be “now residing in Moscow” instead of Bulgaria. He came out and waved a Russian flag so horribly like a piss poor seal fresh out of water. His career will be down the pan in six months.

This prompted former Intercontinental Champion Big E. Langston to wave an American flag which was done very hunchbackly. These were so horrible to watch. The Big E. charge off the apron was the matches’ big moment. Rusev just hasn’t got it.

Kofi Kingston Vs Bo Dallas

It was time to Bo-lieve. Coming out with a smile that looked horrible and some lame music, Bo Dallas was apparently “undefeated” at 2-0. WWE and the announce team seem to have forgotten about Bo Dallas as the Intercontinental champion some year ago. Bo then dissed the Blackhawks game this evening, to which CM Punk may be at.

The ring burst as Kane then entered the match instantly. He attacked Kofi Kingston. It was a pathetic booking to the show. Payback is pathetic. Kane chokeslam and tombstoned Kofi and then left as ‘Inspirational’ Dallas hovered over Kofi and told him to “Bo-lieve.”

Intercontinental Championship

Rob Van Dam Vs Bad News Barrett (c)

Wade Barrett began with his squawky, one dimensional howl of nothingness from his eagled beak.

Barrett used the trademark sleeper back elbow hold as stereotyped format would have it.  

A standard fight followed. They took it outside. Rolling Thunder missed as a back hind kick countered. Barrett avoided more as RVD nailed the Rolling Thunder. Following with a five star frog splash missed. Whirl sideslam from Barrett now. Barrett missed RVD outside and smashed his arm into the ring post. RVD gained a two fall. The Bullhammer came out of nowhere and connected from Bad News Barrett in another fluke win over Rob Van Dam.

Daniel Bryan Wold title surrendership

Stephanie arrives.

Stephanie ‘don’t attack my kids’ McMahon went on about how ugly Bryan and Bella’s future kids could be if they decided to have any.

Heat machine Steph built on it adding “These people want you to quit just like CM Punk did.”

Bryan responded with “Narcissistic, self-centred, what’s that word I’m looking for?”

Wife Brie adds “Bitch!” The crowd cheer “bitch.”

“Now I see who has the real guts.” Stephanie irked.

“You can’t fire me.” Brie finalised to Steph. “I quit!” Brie yells as she then slaps Stephanie in the face. Stephanie runs away in pain and upset.

The segment is officially strained out till next night on Raw. While the angle was good and well performed by all it was still short of real emphasis on what could have been. The dragging of heels is becoming stupid.

Last Man Standing

Bray Wyatt w/ Luke Harper and Erick Rowan Vs John Cena w/ The Uso’s

Somewhere, he’s out there, among the Universal lights as WWE showed he Universe lighting all their phones in the dark.

WWE explained this was the rubber match. This one is about to end here tonight, presumably. Before the action began The Uso’s charged to Cena’s side. The fans boo’ed loudly for the stupidity in having the tag champs with Cena. This made the bout completely wasteful before it began. Cena faceplanted Wyatt quickly. Wyatt smacked Cena down. “Nothing seems to bother him, you can’t get in his head” Michael Cole added regarding Bray.

Bray dominated Cena with corner runs. Cena instantly reached his feet then went down on a knee backbreaker. It looked weak for both men. “So unorthodox. You never know what’s coming…” Michael Cole reiterated.

Sister Abigail blocked early as Cena lightly pushed Bray who elbow smashed Cena down for a seven count.  Cena soon countered as both went down. Both get up as Cena ran into a well caught Sister Abigail. Cena hits an Attitude Adjustment.

As Bray sat in the crab the Wyatt Family entered as The Uso’s helped keep order taking them down. Harper left with Cena was distracted and took out Rowan. An Uso climbed to the top rope to drop on Rowan outside. Cena turns around to be hit by a chair in the ring by Bray twice. Cena outside uses the chair before using inside again. Cena tried an Attitude Adjustment but was caught into a table drop by Bray.

Cena pummelled Bray outside. Cena hurled the steel steps over the top rope onto Wyatt outside. Bray landed Sister Abigail outside swiftly on a Cena approach. Cena soon put in his laughable routine of comedy trying to be interesting and walking backwards as if dazed. It looked completely kak-handed. He then droped an attack on Wyatt outside. Harper and Rowan take Cena down but rush to help Wyatt to his feet. Jimmy and Jey arrive but Harper soon smacks the table ringside into an Uso’s face as they attempt a running dive.

Amid the confusion the announce team explained Bray was down for at least a ten count but the run-in confusion understandably stopped the ref’s count. The Family and The Uso’s predictably took it to each other with Harper suplexing one Uso through the stacked table outside in the moment of the match.

Bray rushes into Cena by the fall away barricade padding at ringside. Bray takes Cena through the crowd. Bray flings Cena into the audio equipment with a massive thud. Cena tackily jabs elbows into Bray as a high pitch woman screams as Cena Attitude Adjustments Bray into a case. He then tips another briefcase stack over the case to trap Bray Wyatt and win under yet another gimmick. John Cena always wins with a wimpish victory just like the ductape debacle years ago. Once again, it ruined Wyatt and failed to protect Cena. It was another throw away battle that gave nothing back.

Divas Championship

Paige (c) Vs Alicia Fox

Fluke champion Paige entered to quiet reception. Paige missed a through ring arm jab instantly. Clumsy Paige then bumped her body onto Alicia’s in the corner instead of ramming her. After Alicia walked around the outside Paige pushed Fox into the barricade. Fox then amazingly launched Paige over by the hair to the ground from the ring steps. Fox wrenches the defending flunkie champ into a crab submission. Alicia dominates. Two fall. Alicia held Paige sideways and ran her to the middle rope throwing her out. Alicia guides Paige with instructions before Paige then hits moves on Alicia to stage a comeback. Paige tries the Scorpion leg lock. Alicia Fox easily taps out to allow Paige the continuation of a fluke victory. Paige once again did nothing at all and has been placed with low pecking order fodder to try to establish a profile which is non-existent. Triple H’s personal project is an ultimate flaw.

“I said silence.” Alicia screams. Alicia’s temper tantrum, which originated from a ‘Max Waltham meltdown’ on Twitter over previous Raw’s gave a new characterisation to Fox. Unfortunately for her and WWE they can only carry it for a few week’s before failing to understand how to fully make it work charismatically. Temper tantrum Alicia runs to the back with flimsy arms rotating all over like an idiot. Another daft decision.

Six Man Tag Team, Elimination

No Holds Barred

The Shield Vs Evolution

Vain egotist Triple H sent out an Instagram picture of his trained body. Please. Randy and Batista were looking good and Batista is now clad in blue trunks, long sweat bands and boots. It was hot, but the arm pads were too long. Try them a bit shorter. The rest is fine.

The Shield arrive. All go at it. Batista has trouble tipping himself over the barricade, but it allowed us to get a sneak peek of his booty. Silver linings. Batista and Reigns were at the top titantron. Rollins and Triple H go at it in the crowd and Orton and Ambrose lock up outside the ring.  Batista and Rollins work well together with Batista holding charge. Orton in and floored by a Rollins dropkick in good exchanges between the two. Ambrose joins. Randy Orton took the knee drop to the face like a pro. Batista’s massive sweat seen. Yummy. Haven’t seen this in a while. Sweat makes a man.

Batista enters as Reigns takes power control. Triple H could be heard instructing Ambrose who clearly knew what to do. He tagged in Reigns after a smooth leg move and roll through to corner tag. Reigns was now sweaty glazed.  Roman Reigns adopted the triple vertical suplex.

Batista outside rams Ambrose to the barricade and drops him on it. “Boo-tista!” chants rain as Batista is working very well tonight. At this point we are informed the WWE Twitter Universe have constructed the hashtag #Bluetista. HHH and Ambrose carry the action. A bounce off the ropes onto HHH bides time. Reigns tagged in and unloads on Batista. Takes down Orton and HHH. Runs around ring for head kick to Batista in the ropes. Reigns charges the superman punch which missed unfortunately, and took a two fall. All taking it to the crowd now. Rollins jumps into a metal object by HHH. Reigns dismantles the Spanish Announce table, as Orton breaks it up. HHH re-joins to fling Reigns into steel steps. Orton clears the table. Evolution prepares Reigns for their triple team attack. They drop the triple powerbomb on Roman Reigns. Evolution stand and look. Ambrose jumps across the other table onto all three upon return. Rollins launches out of the ring over Orton and HHH. Orton slams Ambrose onto a stacked chair as The Shield are soon dominated up the titantron by Evolution. Triple H pedigrees Seth Rollins on a chair. The trio head back to the ring to deal with Reigns.

HHH calls for the steps as Orton and Batista strip Reigns’ vest off. Some wolf whistles were heard. Over the steps Reigns is smashed with Kendo sticks. Reigns jumps over the steps and Superman punches Orton, beat down by the others. Reigns is now sent up the ramp. Ambrose comes back but wrangled down. The free hoist him over the ramp of the entrance lights as Orton drape DDT’s Ambrose. Rollins appears from the top of the ‘tron and takes all three down. Everyone crawls to the ring as Rollins halts a Batista charge. Rollins jumps from top turnbuckle to be speared on the spot. Batista Bomb countered as Roman Reigns quickly spears Batista. Rollins covers Batista, who gets eliminated.

Orton slams an RKO but Reigns saves a close two on Rollins. Ambrose clouts Orton with a chair and a DDT on the chair to eliminate Randy Orton. HHH lands a low blow on Ambrose. Roman Reigns Superman punches HHH as a spear by Batista is smashed in upset return for earlier elimination.

Orton slips the sledgehammer to HHH. Ambrose is skulled by Triple H. Rollins dives on HHH and Reigns leans over Triple H to cover and win the match for Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns.

PPV Rating - 6/10

Man/Woman of the PPV – Batista

Men/Women of their matches – Antonio Cesaro, Curtis Axel, Big E., Kofi Kingston, Rob Van Dam, Bray Wyatt, Alicia Fox, Seth Rollins

For WWE Payback could have been better, but it still managed to deliver a pleasing show all things considered. The Shield and Evolution rematch held its ground and the trio kept their core being over the re-hashed ego centric Triple H club in Evolution.

It’s a shame that as soon as Batista is leaving WWE from his part time contract his new attire, look and his interaction in this match made him the most interesting, skilled and standout of the night. Once he’s getting good, it’s about to disappear. Along with an exceptional crew, the six man battle was fierce, fun and a pleasure.

Alicia Fox failing to dethrone the flunkie title might be one thing, but Paige as an inconsistent, fluke and inadequate in-ring champion is detrimental. She cannot carry the title and should be dropped. He last months bungled battle on Pay Per View with this one is a shining testament to that. The longer you take, the worse it gets. Is Triple H’s ego for trying to get fans on his side so distorted it will cost and entire division instead?

Antonio Cesaro’s slow build is, well, something. What it is can’t quite be classified. HE’s got the skills and we put him forward, but WWE only put him with Sheamus to protect the US champ. It made Cesaro look pathetic. It, once again, is being done all the wrong way.

Big E. and Kofi Kingston shouldn’t have got out of bed. These were pathetic entries at the last minute, despite their best efforts to keep it together.

Curtis Axel needs to dump the hat. As well as Ryback and all the losers around him. He was starting to show promise again, but WWE dropped it.

Rob Van Dam still did his past routine of yesteryear, however did try to mix it up a little, which is encouraging. He performed well with Barrett and had to work with the lame duck to make a credible match.

Bray Wyatt was not allowed to beat company hero John Cena. Looking entirely weak thanks to Cena, WWE, at the height of one of its newest and most intriguing stars, is drawing shirt straws.

WWE should have stripped Daniel Bryan of the title and had a match to crown a new champ tonight. Such indecision was feeble on WWE’s part.

If WWE cannot figure out what to do, strain angles over time and make a strong tough decision than a random match thrown at the last minute to fill time, WWE is in trouble of discriminating its PPV buy rates. Most people forgot Payback was broadcasting tonight. These signs are not encouraging in the slightest and WWE need to re-structure its management to really focus on what’s key. I’m only one email away, babe. 

© Max Waltham 02nd June 2014