Bleacher Report - Articles by Kendrick Davis

Countdown To WWE Bragging Rights

Kendrick Davis — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 23:12:15 -0400

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It’s no more control of making matches, stipulations but now supremacy is on the line for those respective brands of RAW and Smackdown. The first annual WWE Bragging Rights formerly Cyber Sunday takes place this Sunday at the Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. It’s LIVE at 8pm et/5pm pt only on Pay-Per-View.

To order the event call your local cable operator. If satellite, call DIRECTV or Dish Network . If you don’t wanna order watch it free online.

Shoutouts to Maylene and the Sons of Disaster for “Step Up (I’m On It)” the official theme song for WWE Bragging Rights. It’s off of their album “III” and it’s in stores now.

No time to waste let’s break down the matches of Bragging Rights.

RAW Divas vs Smackdown Divas Six Diva Tag Team Match: Team RAW (WWE Divas Champion Melina, Gail Kim & Kelly Kelly) vs Team Smackdown (WWE Women’s Champion Michelle McCool, Beth Phoenix & Natalya)

If it wasn’t for the multi-diva trade thanks to Smackdown GM Theodore Long, ECW GM Tiffany, and RAW Special Guest Host Nancy O’Dell, we wouldn’t have this match.

The October 12^th edition of RAW was puzzling when Jillian defeated Mickie James to become WWE Divas Champion. However, that was for only a few seconds when O’Dell announced that a trade took place and she introduced Melina as the new acquisition on RAW.

Melina would take on Jillian for the Divas Title and was successful in doing it by becoming the third Diva alongside Michelle McCool & Mickie James.

The question was who else was traded? Well RAW picked up Melina now Divas Champion of course, with Eve and ex-ECW representatives The Bella Twins. ECW picked up Rosa Mendes.

Smackdown, however won the trade hands down when they received Mickie James & Beth Phoenix. The Glamazon however, was not happy with the trade from RAW to Smackdown.

It still didn’t stop Phoenix from letting Women’s Champion Michelle McCool know that she wants the Women’s Championship. The bright side for McCool, Team Smackdown Co-Captain Chris Jericho placed his trust in the brash Diva to lead the Divas from Smackdown against RAW.

Six Divas pride themselves on being the best and wanna win in this business but first they have represent their brands proudly at Bragging Rights.

Which team of Divas look to claim victory for RAW or Smackdown? Don’t miss out on Bragging Rights This Sunday on pay-per-view.

STAR RATING: Honestly I could care less about this match. I love eye candy don’t get it twisted, but this match is not anticipating. Especially no Mickie James or Maryse. In the words of Ron Simmons or catchphrase, DDDDDDDAAAAAAMMMMMMMNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PREDICTION: Team Smackdown. This is a size disadvantage for RAW and Smackdown has the upper hand with McCool, Phoenix & Natalya representing. However, I do expect things to be different but without tag team brand matches at Survivor Series. I would add Mickie James, Maria, Jillian, Alicia Fox or Maryse in the traditional Survivor Series 5-on-5 match.

CHAMPION VS CHAMPION: Intercontinental Champion John Morrison vs United States Champion The Miz

You had to know that this was coming between the former Tag Team Champions and they get it on in the ring but Bragging Rights is on the line.

The last time we saw these two together was on RAW for the WWE Draft. Morrison was ringside when his former ally The Miz took on Kofi Kingston. It was a back and forth match til Morrison accidentally cost Miz the match via disqualification by hitting Kingston. Next thing The Miz was drafted to RAW from ECW.

A goodbye handshake between the two turned to a Reality Check from Miz to Morrison because The Friday Night Delight cost him his match. Not only Miz was drafted but few days later in the Supplemental Draft, John Morrison went back to Smackdown.

Since then, both have found success on their separate ways. John Morrison won his second Intercontinental Championship over Rey Mysterio on the Sept 4^th edition of Smackdown.

Then the night after Hell In A Cell in which The Miz lost in the Triple Threat Match, he was given another chance at the United States Championship. The Miz finally achieved success by winning his first ever singles championship by defeating Kofi Kingston to become United States Champion.

On the Oct 16^th edition of Smackdown, the two would meet again by hosting The Dirt Sheet which was successful on WWE.com and head-to-head with Cryme Tyme’s Word Up last year. They used to poke fun at the opposition but instead it was serious when these two took shots at each other and argued who was the better of the two when they were a tag team.

Bragging Rights will be a night where former buddies now bitter rivals plus champions on their respective brands go head-to-head. Can the wrestler from The Palace of Wisdom defeat his former tag team champion and claim Bragging Rights for Smackdown? Or will Mizzy Janetty, I mean The Miz prove his one time tag partner wrong by picking up a win for RAW?

Who will be the Michaels and Janetty? We’ll find out this Sunday when these two young athletes square off in the ring at Bragging Rights Live from Pittsburgh only on Pay-Per-View.

STAR RATING: No championships are involved but this is gonna be a entertaining match. We have two talented superstars going at it and it won’t be a boring match. This is one of the matches I’m looking forward to seeing.

PREDICTION: John Morrison. This could go either way based on who wins at Bragging Rights but I’m with Morrison on this one. I feel Morrison is the better of the two and always has been when they were champions. He has potential to one day become World Champion and I think it could be next year.

He’s been on a roll lately and don’t see him stopping in this match. I do expect this rivalry to continue into next month’s PPV called Survivor Series. However, I think they will be on teams.

FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP: The Undertaker © vs Batista vs CM Punk vs Rey Mysterio

The Deadman won his tailored made match against the Straightedge Superstar and won his seventh championship at Hell In A Cell. On the Oct 9^th edition of Friday Night Smackdown, GM Theodore Long was gonna name the challenger for the World Heavyweight Championship until Punk interrupted him.

Mr Straightedge wanted a rematch but this time it was the match that was controversial at Breaking Point. He wanted referee Scott Armstrong to officiate the Undertaker/Punk Submissions Match for the World Heavyweight Championship and Long at ringside. However things were about to change when the Chairman Vince McMahon came in the picture.

McMahon has been on Long’s case since the summer about how he’s handled Smackdown and put him on probation. He named the match but said it was the GM’s idea to have Undertaker defend his title at Bragging Rights. This time it was a Fatal Four Way Match against CM Punk, The Master of the 619 Rey Mysterio, and 'The Animal' Batista.

McMahon’s presence played a role when he ordered Long to have a match between best friends Batista & Rey Mysterio in which Mysterio was the winner. Then Punk came in and made Mysterio “Go To Sleep” after Batista left the ring.

Then before that match Punk asked McMahon to make the match for the World Heavyweight Championship and once again a Subsmissions Match with Armstrong officiating the match and Long at ringside.

The next week on Smackdown, Undertaker would take on CM Punk in a Submissions Match. Punk has the odds in his favor and then he asked Long to give him the chair to use on The Deadman. However, the GM wanted no part and gave it to Armstrong, but he himself didn’t want no part of the matter and Punk took it.

Taker countered and use the chair to his advantage and kicked Punk in the face. Undertaker turned his attention to Armstrong and chokeslammed him then focused his attention on Long. Punk attacked him with the chair and was about to put him in the Andaconda Vise but The Deadman countered it with Hell’s Gates and made Punk submit.

At Bragging Rights, Undertaker is in a disadvantage when he faces Batista, Mysterio, & Punk in a Fatal Four Way Match. The Deadman has faced adversity and knew how to overcome it, but how will do in the Fatal Four Way?

Batista is coming back from a shoulder injury and feasting for gold. As for Rey Mysterio, who is willing to go through obstacles to become World Champion for the first time since WrestleMania 22. CM Punk looks to avenges his loss at Hell In A Cell and become World Heavyweight Champion for the fourth time in his career.

Who will emerge in this match and walk out World Heavyweight Champion? We have to wait until Sunday at the Igloo only on Pay Per View.

STAR RATING: This is gonna be an hard fought match with these four individuals. They’ve accomplished so much in their careers and are willing to go into the heat of battle to be champion.

PREDICTION: CM Punk. For some reason, I don’t see The Deadman winning this match especially he doesn’t have to be pinned. Undertaker’s reign is gonna be short because of there hasn’t been a long run as World Heavyweight Champion.

Winning the championship is a pure gift, but when you’re top, you’re the hunted and it’s a curse.. WWE is pushing for CM Punk to become a mega heel. I wouldn’t be surprised if these two go at it again but who knows.

RAW vs Smackdown Bragging Rights 7-on-7 Match – Team RAW (Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Big Show (One half of Unified Tag Team Champions), Cody Rhodes (Legacy), Jack Swagger, Kofi Kingston, & Mark Henry vs Team Smackdown (Co-Captaians Chris Jericho (One half of Unified Tag Team Champions) & Kane, Matt Hardy, The Hart Dynasty, Finlay, & R-Truth

This all began the night after Hell In A Cell on RAW when the Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show took on D-Generation X made by Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. DX was successful over the champions at the end of the show.

This made Triple H & Chris Jericho captains of their own brands. Shawn Michaels was Co-Captain for Team RAW, of course. However, there was tension between Jeri-Show when Big Show said he is the better of the champions which didn’t sit well with Jericho. The two would argue which Triple H continued to stir the pot.

Triple H would give Big Show a chance to join Team RAW, but one simple he has to do. He has to beat Jericho to earn his spot with Team RAW. Jericho was about outsmart Show when he claimed that his knee was injured in a fall. However, Show dragged Jericho out of the ring and beat the ten count to join Team RAW.

Triple H would set up qualifying matches for those to join Team RAW

Big Show def Chris Jericho via countout

Cody Rhodes (Legacy) def John Cena & Ted DiBiase (Legacy) in a Triple Threat Match

Jack Swagger def MVP

Kofi Kingston def Evan Bourne

Mark Henry def Chris Masters

Chris Jericho was named captain of Team Smackdown but had an ally on his side. The Big Red Monster Kane was named Co-Captain along Y2J to represent Team Smackdown. Jericho & Kane would set these matches up for those to join Team Smackdown.

Dolph Ziggler def Finlay & Mike Knox in a Triple Threat Match

Cryme Tyme def The Hart Dynasty

Eric Escobar def Matt Hardy

Drew McIntyre def R-Truth via countout

On the 19^th edition of RAW, the two teams of their respective brands would collide. See Chris Jericho & Shawn Michaels was supposed to face off until Jericho called for Team Smackdown to come to the ring. While Team RAW comes out and then all hell breaks loose at the end of the show.

Then two days before Bragging Rights, Jericho & Kane would have a test for their fellow members. This was the same tactic that DX did for Team RAW to beat the other team for their spot at Bragging Rights. Jericho would have JTG, Escobar, McIntyre & Ziggler minus Shad due to illness to take on Finlay, The Hart Dynasty, Matt Hardy, & R-Truth for their Bragging Rights spot.

However, the results were different for Team Smackdown as to Team RAW winning their match to retain their spot at Bragging Rights. There was a big makeover when Matt Hardy won for his team to earn their spots alongside Chris Jericho & Kane.

Bragging Rights is gonna be on the line when these two teams meet. Some many elements, styles, egos, and personalities on the teams. Let’s look at the teams.

Team RAW has seven wrestlers who’ve had feuds with each other in months. Take DX vs Cody Rhodes (with Ted DiBiase), Jack Swagger vs Kofi Kingston, & Big Show vs Mark Henry. These guys might not like each other but they’re representing RAW and have to put animosity and conflict aside.

Team Smackdown went through a big makeover with Matt Hardy & Co. winning. However, can they still co-exist with different personalities on one team. It’s minor with Smackdown as with RAW, but still a mix of faces & heels.

Can RAW put their differences aside to win for their brand? Or will Smackdown crush the competition and runaway with Bragging Rights? Questions will be answered This Sunday on pay-per-view.

STAR RATING: Honestly, I feel like this is waste of a PPV, especially Survivor Series is next month and we will have the traditional Survivor Series 5-on-5 match. The booking of this match is bad. You replaced five members with new members on one team two days before the PPV?

Maybe the creative team felt it was more heels on the team with a tag team that are fan favorites and wanted to shake things up but bad booking. I’m glad Matt Hardy’s in it and The Hart Dynasty, about time they get on a PPV for once. However, Dolph Ziggler or Drew McIntyre should have been kept on the team. I’ll watch the match but it’s not gonna be all that.

PREDICTION: Team RAW. Even though there was tension as of late with Team RAW, they held it together to hold their ground against Team Smackdown on RAW. Smackdown went through a dramatic change when Matt Hardy, Finlay, The Hart Dynasty, & R-Truth won their spots and replaced the previous team. Is that enough ammunition to defeat RAW? RAW’s taking it.

ONE HOUR ANYTHING GOES IRON MAN MATCH FOR THE WWE CHAMPIONSHIP: Randy Orton © vs John Cena – If Cena loses, he will leave RAW

At Hell In A Cell, Randy Orton was victorious over John Cena and won the WWE Championship for the third time this year. The night after the PPV, the two bitter rivals met again and it came to a point where the two agreed that the rivalry needed to end.

Cena challenged Randy Orton for the WWE Championship at Bragging Rights in a 60 minute Iron Man Match but things were going to get interesting. Orton agreed but he wanted it on his terms.

Not only it was gonna be an Iron Man Match but Orton wants it an One Hour Anything Goes Iron Man Match meaning No Disqualifications, No Count-Outs, etc. Only pinfalls and submissions apply. Whoever has the most pins win. You can fight in the ring, outside of the ring, in the crowd of the WWE Universe, concession stands, outside the arena, you name it.

One more thing that Randy Orton wanted and it was simple. If Cena wins, he wins the WWE Championship, but if Orton wins, Cena would leave RAW forever. Cena was hesitant of the stipulations by Orton but in Cena fashion he accepted the match.

The next week on RAW, these two would meet again but it was unexpected of how things played out. Cena was in a Triple Threat Match against Orton’s cronies RAW Guest Hostess & Access Hollywood reporter Nancy O’Dell would make a match with Cena & Orton together with Bragging Rights approaching against Rhodes & DiBiase.

John Cena did most of the fighting and took most of the beating from the third-generation superstars while Orton was looking on. Orton would tag Cena on the back but The Viper would attack Cena until Ted DiBiase would pick up the win by roll-up on Orton which infuriated the WWE Champion.

This past Monday but would have tests well sort of. Before Cena took on Triple H in what could be Cena’s last night on RAW, Orton had to fight. However, it was his own and that was Ted DiBiase in which Orton threatened DiBiase not to fight back or there would be consequences. Orton would easily RKO the son of the Million Dollar Man and pick up the win.

For Cena, he took on Triple H in what was a good match. Both threw everything at each other but The Game would beat Cena at the end which was not good for Mr.Attitude Adjustment. It was not what he wanted going to Bragging Rights in what would be a grueling competitive match with everything on the line.

John Cena has been in this situation before as far as winning a championship to stay on RAW. Remember, he faced Edge in The Rated R Superstar’s playground which was Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match at Unforgiven 2006 in his hometown of Toronto. Cena went through hell and Edge to win back the WWE Championship.

Now, he’s in the same spot again but in a One Hour Anything Goes Iron Man Match with weapons and everything involved. However, this is the most pressure Cena is facing especially coming off of his loss in the Hell In A Cell. Can he do it again and stay on RAW which he was on since the summer of 2005?

Cena’s not the only one with pressure on him, but for Orton it’s within his own circle. Lately, it’s been tension in Legacy especially with him & Ted DiBiase. He won but could his evil deeds cost him his WWE Championship?

At Bragging Rights, will RKO end Cena’s four year tenure on RAW and remain champion? Or will Cena overcome the odds stacked against him to win the WWE Championship and remain on the RAW roster?

It all goes down at Bragging Rights with everything on the line in this rivalry live This Sunday on pay-per-view.

STAR RATING: Best match throughout the card. With everything on the line including the championship, this is not gonna be a match but it will be a war. This is the final chapter for a minute but this will be the better match.

PREDICTION: John Cena. Hands down Cena wins this. Look at what he has against him. Yes he challenged The Viper to an Iron Man Match but Orton wants it Anything Goes plus Cena leaves RAW if he loses.

RAW can’t afford to lose another superstar to Smackdown especially getting Batista, Chris Jericho, CM Punk, Rey Mysterio & Kane. Then after what happened between Orton & DiBiase, could DiBiase play the wild card in that match especially with no disqualification in this match.

I expect DiBiase to cost Orton his championship. Cena wins but who would he face down the road? Survivor Series, maybe a Team Cena vs Team Orton match but maybe Shawn Michaels with TLC in HBK’s hometown in San Antonio.

I wanna thank you guys for taking the time to read my preview on WWE Bragging Rights. Don't forget to order this event on pay-per-view. Peace out.

Countdown To WWE Hell In A Cell: Inside The Cell

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 23:16:27 -0400

First you were shown No Mercy and now you’re locked in the demonic structure that’s the Hell In A Cell. The event takes place this Sunday at the Prudential Center in Newark NJ. It’s LIVE at 8pm et/5pm pt only on Pay-Per-View.

To order the event call your local cable operator. If satellite, call DIRECTV or Dish Network. If you don’t wanna order watch it free online.

Shoutouts go to Skillet for “Monster” the official theme song for Hell In A Cell. It’s off of their album “Awake” and it’s in stores now.

Thanks for reading Part 1: Outside The Cell. First I gave you matches Outside the Cell, now I'm giving you matches inside Hell In A Cell.

D-Generation X (Triple H & Shawn Michaels) vs Legacy (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase)

Even though Randy Orton was forced to submit and lost his championship, Legacy pulled the biggest upset of the PPV. At Breaking Point, they made Shawn Michaels submit using submission moves both inside and outside. However, that rivalry didn’t die the next night on RAW.

Shawn Michaels was looking to redeem himself against Ted DiBiase the night after Breaking Point. The momentum was on HBK’s side and as soon as he was about to deliver that Sweet Chin Music, Cody Rhodes grabbed HBK’s leg, which ended in a disqualification.

This started an all-out carnage outside the ring when The Game and Rhodes went at it, the the battle between HBK and DiBiase went into the stands. This set up a match between DX & Legacy at Hell In A Cell for the final time but inside the Hell In A Cell.

Next week on RAW, it was Triple H going against Cody Rhodes but at the end it was Legacy’s night. The third-generation duo took out Shawn Michaels while Triple H was laying in the ring.

Then Rhodes came back was about to get pedigreed by the Game but DiBiase saved his partner by hitting Triple H on the back with a steel chair which ended in disqualification.

Triple H and Shawn Michaels knows how the Hell In A Cell works. They have been in matches against not only the past and present of the WWE but even against each other. They hold an advantage which could spell doom for Legacy.

However, Rhodes & DiBiase have proven that they are not pushovers to the future Hall of Famers and have given the D-Generate duo a run for their money.

Hell In A Cell will be the last time that these two tag teams would face off but who closes the book on this feud? Will D-Generation X avenge their loss at Breaking Point? Or will Legacy add a Hell In A Cell in their young careers? Find out Sunday At Hell In A Cell.

STAR RATING: These two tag teams will put their hearts and bodies into this match and even though there’s a winner or loser, no one leaves unscathed from the Hell In A Cell.

PREDICTION: D-Generation X. DX will avenge their loss against Legacy at Hell In A Cell. Legacy will learn a whole lot from this match and prepare them well in the future. As for DX, what’s next for the duo?

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP – John Cena © vs Randy Orton

John Cena pulled a Joe Namath six days before Breaking Point and made a guarantee that he would not quit and also become WWE Champion. He answered it after, through a terrible beating from The Viper.

To be handcuffed, beaten with a Singapore cane, and hit with a steel chair, Cena was not giving up. Cena gave the best performance in his career and made Orton tap.

The next night on RAW in Toronto which is the hometown of RAW Guest Hostess Trish Stratus. She made the match between John Cena & Randy Orton with the WWE Championship on the line, but in the horrific confines of Hell In A Cell at the steel-named event.

The next week on RAW, the fireworks were popping between these bitter rivals during the contract signing for Hell In A Cell. Orton gave a reminder to Cena which is accurate. See Orton knows the Hell In A Cell and has experienced it going against The Undertaker at Armageddon 2005, which he lose.

Then he points out that Cena has never been in Hell In A Cell, which is a disadvantage for the champion. Knowing Cena, he’s ready for the fight.

Later on that night, both were in a Six-Man Tag Team Match with Cena paired with MVP & Mark Henry going against Orton alongside the Unified Tag Team Champions Chris Jericho & Big Show due to the events during the contract signing.

Stakes were high because the winning team would face either Orton or Cena in a 3-on-1 Gauntlet Match the next week on RAW. At the end, Cena wasn’t smiling when Orton delivered the RKO to the World Strongest’s Man thanks to Jericho’s chop block.

John Cena would go to the Lion’s Den on RAW to face Orton, Jericho, & Show in the Gauntlet Match. Jeri-Show was disqualified for not obeying the referee’s rules while punishing a beaten John Cena for Randy Orton. Orton thought everything would swing his way but Cena had a message for him.

He smiled when he signaled for the Hell In A Cell to come down and Orton was scared s**tless. He tried to leave the Cell but it was too late and he did everything to try to avoid Cena but it didn’t work. Cena chased Orton to the top of Satan’s Playground and gave the challenger the FU on top.

Hell In A Cell is the perfect setting for these two go all out and close the book on this bitter rivalry. These two came in the WWE in 2002 and have come a long way to get to this kind of atmosphere. Both share a personal hatred towards each other and look inflict pain to become champion.

Cena has been in different types of match Falls Count Anywhere Match, First Blood Match, Elimination Chamber Matches, TLC match and has proved he can overcome the odds. However, he has never endured the horrors that is the Hell In A Cell and can he keep his title?

Orton on the other hand, has compete in so many matches and have earned his stripes in his illustrious career but can he close the book on Cena and once again win the WWE Championship for the third time this year?

Despite the war wounds that’s Hell In A Cell, who will walk out the WWE Champion? Find out at Hell In A Cell.

STAR RATING: The animosity between these two will come ahead in Hell In A Cell and it will be a war. It doesn’t matter which championship match in the steel structure that’s better, this one will be a hellacious battle.

PREDICTION: Randy Orton. John Cena gets props from me on his performance at Breaking Point and love him or hate him, he has proven himself in the WWE. However, Cena has never been in the battlefield that’s Hell In A Cell and I give the advantage to Orton.

Remember he’s on the poster of Bragging Rights which will take place on October 25^th, so he could walk into that PPV the WWE Champion. Question is who could be the next one to take his title with possibly the help of the WWE Universe?

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – CM Punk © vs Undertaker

Breaking Point was a night where a new champion was crowned but a champion got away with robbery of the World Heavyweight Championship. Undertaker made CM Punk tap in the Submissions Match and became champion.

Unfortunately, Smackdown GM Theodore Long got in the way of Taker’s victory by saying that the submission move Hell’s Gate was banned due to former GM Vickie Guerrero banning it. So the match went on.

Soon as Undertaker was about to take advantage of the match, Punk clipped him by the legs and had him with the Andaconda Vise and all of the sudden Referee Scott Armstrong rings the bell.

Punk was declared the winner, but if you watch the replay, Undertaker did not tap. Referee Scott Armstrong gave the title to Punk and both went to the back to avoid The Deadman.

This wasn’t the first time that Montreal went through something controversial as this. Bret Hart & Shawn Michaels fought for the WWE Championship at Survivor Series in 1998, of course Michaels had Hart with the Sharpshooter and ex WWF/E referee Earl Hebner rung the bell to declare Shawn Michaels the winner.

However, Bret Hart did not submit and the man who orchestrated the ending was the Chairman himself Vince McMahon.

There were questions that need to be answered on Smackdown. Scott Armstrong admitted that he was ashamed of the events that took place at Breaking Point and he felt guilty. Not only the Undertaker and the WWE Universe were livid but Mr.McMahon was upset as well.

McMahon told Theodore Long to explain his actions and tell the audience the truth , plus to apologize for the controversy. Before Long would address the Universe, McMahon warned him about how you don’t mess with The Undertaker.

Long admitted that there was a plot involving him, Scott Armstrong and World Champion CM Punk to prevent The Phenom from winning the championship at Breaking Point. He was remorseful about his actions.

After Theodore Long made his public apology, the security escorted him to his for protection. However, the smoke didn’t clear for Long when The Undertaker took him for the ride.

On the Sept 25^th episode of Smackdown, Long would be back after his abduction of The Deadman. CM Punk would of course lecture the WWE Universe until the druids came to ringside with a coffin. As Punk, would open the coffin cautiously, there lied the Smackdown GM tied and gagged.

Punk unties and ungasgs a petrified Long and he would announced that CM Punk would defend his title in a rematch against The Deadman, but this time in the demonic structure that’s Hell In A Cell and what’s worse, he allows Hell’s Gate to be used.

Then he makes a non-title match between The Undertaker and CM Punk. Of course, CM Punk found a way to beat the challenger for his World Heavyweight Championship and that was by count-out.

Now at Hell In A Cell, this will not be any regular match. These two adversaries will be locked in the steel structure. This will be an all out war.

CM Punk has never competed in the Hell In A Cell, while The Undertaker has experience the Cell by fighting the likes of Shawn Michaels, The Rock, Stone Cold, Triple H, Rikishi, & Kurt Angle in Armageddon 2000, Mick Foley/Mankind, Big Boss Man, ex-WWE wrestler/UFC Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar, Batista & Edge.

Will the Straightedge Superstar walk out of New Jersey still the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will The Undertaker put an end to Punk’s reign and become champion for the seventh time in his career? Win or lose, these two will not be the same after this hellacious match.

STAR RATING: It’s hard to say if this rivalry will continue into the next PPV that’s Bragging Rights, but if it’s the final chapter to their rivalry, this will be a good match. This match will be better than the last match at Breaking Point and no controversy. The fans deserve better than a remake of the Montreal Screwjob.

PREDICTION: The Undertaker. Hands down this is The Deadman’s kind of match. Experience and war wounds of the Hell In A Cell match will prevail over CM Punk’s inexperience in this match.

Punk has won two Money In The Bank matches, Samoan Strap Match and the TLC Match, but this match is the biggest and challenging match in Punk’s career. CM Punk’s chances of holding onto the title will come to an end this Sunday.

I wanna thank you guys for taking the time to read my two-part preview to Hell In A Cell. Remember don’t forget to order Hell In A Cell and it’s live on Pay-Per-View.

Countdown To WWE Hell In A Cell: Outside Hell In A Cell

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 21:52:27 -0400

To order the event call your local cable operator. If satellite, call DIRECTV or Dish Network. If you don’t wanna order watch it free online.

Shoutouts to Skillet for “Monster” the official theme song for Hell In A Cell. It’s off their album “Awake” and it’s in stores now.

No time to waste let’s break down the matches outside of Hell In A Cell.

TRIPLE THREAT MATCH FOR THE WWE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP – Kofi Kingston © vs The Miz vs Jack Swagger

Ever since Kofi Kingston won the United States Championship over MVP in May, he has become a marked man. He’s overcome the challenges of Big Show, Carlito, MVP, Matt Hardy, Primo, William Regal, The Miz, & Jack Swagger.

Whether it was singles matches, Six Pack Challenges, and Triple Threat Matches, Kingston would reign supreme.

The match for Hell In A Cell between these three superstars started with both challengers stealing Kingston’s coveted US Title. First, it was The Miz and the next week it was The All-American American.

The night after Breaking Point, Miz's bitterness carried over to RAW in the tag match between him and Jack Swagger against Kofi & Primo. Miz decided to steal Kofi’s United States title which gave the team the win and distracted Kofi Kingston.

Then the next week, Kofi Kingston & Jack Swagger had a match against each other. Which didn’t last long with The Miz once again taking the title owned by Kofi, but to the chagrin of The All-American American he clotheslined the Awesome Superstar.

Then Swagger walks away with the United States Championship, which ended in a No Contest. Kofi, however regained his title back on the Sept 28^th episode of RAW when both Miz & Swagger got into it.

At Hell In A Cell, Kingston will once again have the odds stacked against him in the Triple Threat Match. Will the Jamaican Superstar once again answer the challenge and keep his title? Could the All-American American add another title to his resume? Will Mr. Awesome finally win his first-ever singles title ever in his career?

Watch these three go at it at Hell In A Cell with the United States Championship on the line. Order it now.

STAR RATING:and a 1/2. The US Title Match will be competitive and high-paced. These three are gonna give everything in the ring and put it all out there to be a champion. Not a bad match but won't steal the show.

PREDICTION: The Miz. I predict him to win last month at Breaking Point and that prediction didn’t go well but in a Triple Threat Match, the champion doesn’t have to be pinned. Miz is on a mission to become champion and Hell In A Cell will be his night of achievement.

WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP – John Morrison © vs Dolph Ziggler

The Intercontinental Championship went through a makeover when Rey Mysterio was suspended 30 days by the WWE for violating their Wellness Policy. This opened an opportunity for the Shaman of Sexy himself to win the title and that he did before Rey’s suspension.

The winner of that match would face Dolph Ziggler at Breaking Point, but due to a last minute change with adding the United States Championship match to the event, it didn’t take place.

However, these two made their appearance at the event in Montreal when Ziggler disrespected and attacked WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson, which brought Morrison to the ring to save Patterson.

Dolph Ziggler has been on a roll since his arrival to Smackdown. However, he didn’t win the Intercontinental Championship at Night of Champions nor SummerSlam. Not he gets his chance at Hell In A Cell to get a shot at John Morrison for the title. Lately, Morrison has made the arrogant superstar the butt of jokes, especially calling him “Mr. Ziggles”.

The laughing stopped this past Friday on the Ten Year Anniversary of Smackdown when these two competed in a tag team match with Ziggler & The Miz vs the champs Morrison & Kingston. At the end, Dolph was standing tall after he pinned Morrison in the ring.

Now at Hell In A Cell, these two finally go at it for the championship. Will Dolph finally win his first singles title in his career? Or will The Guru of Greatness himself retain the Intercontinental Championship. We’ll find out at Hell In A Cell.

STAR RATING: I’m looking forward to this match. Both guys have contrasting styles and have proven that they can hang with the best of them. They will give it their all especially with the title on the line.

PREDICTION: Dolph Ziggler. This has been a long time coming for Ziggler. I believe he will finally defeat John Morrison and become Intercontinental Champion.

I find it weird that Ziggler didn’t get his chance before Rey’s suspension to win the belt. This would be the other way around but the new champion will be DOLPH ZIGGLER.

WWE DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP – Mickie James © vs Alicia Fox

Alicia Fox has come a long way to get a shot at the WWE Divas Championship. First, she was involved in an affair with Edge, going to ECW as a dancing partner with DJ Gabriel, to WWE Women’s Champion Michelle McCool showing her the ropes on Smackdown. Now her time will come at Hell In A Cell.

With Divas Champion Mickie James at ringside, Alicia Fox took on Gail Kim for the right to be the number one contender to the Divas Champion. Fox had to through a tough match with the veteran.

However, at the end Fox caught Kim slipping and delivered a devastating scissors kick and sealed the win for a shot at Mickie James for the Divas title.

Fox wasn’t done sending a message to James and that came on the Sept 21^st episode of RAW. In a non-title match against Beth Phoenix, Alicia Fox was scouting the match but got in the way when both competitors were out ringside.

That gave Phoenix the opportunity and defeat James, but James wasn’t out of the woods. Fox got in the ring and took out Mickie James with the scissors kick.

At Hell In A Cell, both Divas get it on the ring and battle it out for the WWE Divas Championship. Fox has learned a lot from McCool and has been on a mean streak in recent events but will she overcome the pressure of winning for her first ever championship?

Mickie James has proved herself in her career and has won championships. Fighting the likes of Trish Stratus, Lita, Beth Phoenix, Melina, & Maryse to get to where she is right now,

Will the feisty Floridian taste championship gold for the first time in career? Or will, Mickie thwart another challenge and leave Hell In A Cell still Divas Champion? Watch these divas go at it at Hell In A Cell.

STAR RATING: Love watching these ladies but I’m not big on this match that much. It won’t be boring but it will not be the best match.

PREDICTION: Mickie James. James once again retains her title. Alicia Fox will see better days but right now is not the time. Mickie’s motor is still running in the prime of her career and she will not stop.

WWE UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP – Chris Jericho & Big Show © vs Batista & Rey Mysterio

Since their formation at Night of Champions, Chris Jericho & Big Show, or should I call them Jeri-Show, have been on a rampage in the tag team division.

The tag team went through the third-generation duo of Legacy members Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase, Cryme Tyme & MVP & Mark Henry. Now, they face their biggest challenge in Batista and Rey Mysterio.

Batista made his return to TV since Legacy injured him the night after Extreme Rules, and made the announcement that he was going to Smackdown. Few days later, he made his anticipating return to Smackdown, until Chris Jericho interrupted.

This prompt The Animal to give Y2J the Batista Bomb. Then he defeated Jericho later on in the show, but the next week he faced Jericho’s partner The World’s Strongest Athlete.

Batista was about to make the Big Show tap to the Ankle Lock, until Jericho got involved. Not only he took down Show but did the Ankle Lock to Chris Jericho as well. After the match, Batista made it known that he wants the Unified Tag Team titles and his partner would be The Master of the 619, Rey Mysterio at Hell In A Cell.

Last time, Rey Mysterio was in the ring was when he defended the Intercontinental Championship against John Morrison on Smackdown. However, he lost the title but that wasn’t the worst. He was suspended for 30 days by the WWE for violating the Wellness Policy.

Jericho & Big Show should not take these guys lightly and read the history on these two. This won’t be the first time that Batista & Mysterio teamed together and won tag team gold. Batista won tag team gold with not only it was with 619, but with John Cena and WWE Hall of Famer “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. While Rey Mysterio won not only with Batista, but Edge and the beloved Eddie Guerrero (R.I.P.).

At the first annual Hell In A Cell PPV, can Jeri-Show continue their dominance over the tag team division? Or will Batista & Rey Mysterio together win their second tag team championship? It all goes down in Newark between these two tag teams.

STAR RATING: This will be a good match between these two tag teams. These four are familiar with each other and know what the other is capable of. I expect this to be a competitive match.

PREDICTION: Batista & Rey Mysterio. Even the though the tag team division is picking up with Chris Jericho & Big Show as the Unified Champions, it’s time to crown new champions.

It’s not guaranteed that The Animal & 619 will win, but there’s a reason that these two are facing the champs. They are the biggest threat so far and will walk out of Newark, new Unified Tag Team Champions.

I wanna thank you guys for reading Part 1: Outside Hell In A Cell and be on the lookout for Part 2: Inside Hell In A Cell. Thank you and God bless.

Countdown to WWE Breaking Point: Part 2

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 22:56:32 -0400

In an event where everything was Unforgiven, now it's time to reach to that Breaking Point. WWE Breaking Point is this Sunday and LIVE from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec. It's 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT live and only on pay-per-view.

To order WWE Breaking Point, call your local cable operator. If you have DIRECTV order it here or DishNetwork to order the event.

If you wanna watch it on the net on a free online stream if you don't wanna spend money then you can watch it at the ever reliable site here.

Shoutout to Lynyrd Skynyrd for the theme song to WWE Breaking Point "Still Unbroken". It's off the album "Gods & Guns" which will be released on Sept. 29.

I gave you a preview on Part 1, now let's get to the preview of Part 2.

WWE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP - KOFI KINGSTON (c) VS THE MIZ

Let's say we have to put Kofi Kingston as one of the best title holders for the United States Championship.

The Jamaican Superstar overcame the odds that were Six-Pack Challenges, 7-foot giants, Fatal Four Way Matches, an All-American American, and a guy that knows cool. Now, at Breaking Point he takes on the loudmouth named The Miz and the title is up for grabs.

The Miz has gone through a tumultous summer. He loses to John Cena more than once especially leaving RAW, then losing his chance at becoming champion many of times. However, thanks to a fake gimmick named "The Calgary Kid", Mr. Awesome defeated Eugene in the Contract on a Pole Match and won.

Miz made it clear that has a new look but same attitude as before. He even made it his mission to defeat Kofi Kingston and become the United States Champion. He took the first step by defeating Kingston this past Thursday on "WWE Superstars".

Kofi has proven can take any challenge and overcome all obstacles to remain United States Champion. However, could that luck finally catch up with him at Breaking Point?

This Sunday with the United States Championship in the middle of this feud, both superstars go at it. Will The Miz finally make fantasy into reality by winning the title? Or will Kofi once again remain champion? Find out at Breaking Point this Sunday on Pay Per View.

STAR RATING:and a 1/2. This is gonna be a good match. I was thinking four but three and a half is better off in this match.

PREDICTION: The Miz. I like Kofi and I think he's an excellent superstar that's deserving to be a champion, but The Miz is on a mission. After that gimmick, he's showing more grit and determination to be the best and that will work out at Breaking Point. There's a reason why they keep giving this guy chances.

SUBSMISSIONS COUNT ANYWHERE MATCH - D-GENERATION X (TRIPLE H & SHAWN MICHAELS) VS LEGACY (CODY RHODES & TED DIBIASE)

At SummerSlam, the reformation of D-Generation X took center course when Triple H & Shawn Michaels defeated Legacy members Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase in a good tag team match. Legacy gave everything but fell short to the Sweet Chin Music.

Now at Breaking Point, there will be a first in the tag team history. These two meet again but this time in the first-ever Subsmissions Count Anywhere Match. This will be the first time that subsmission rules in tag team action.

Triple H and Shawn Michaels are seasoned veterans who know how to get the job but Rhodes & DiBiase are no cupcakes. They've proven before especially on the night the WWE Hall Of Famer and Cody's dad, "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, that they can be a threat.

DX tried to stop Legacy from attacking John Cena but Dusty Rhodes took his boot and hit both The Game and The Heartbreak Kid.

Rhodes & DiBiase are students of the game. They learned very well especially if your father is Dusty Rhodes and The Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase (senior). WWE Champion Randy Orton has groomed these guys and taken under his wing especially doing his dirty deeds.

Now at Breaking Point, the respective tag teams go at it in a match where subsmission is possible. Whether it's outside the ring, stands, bathrooms, outside the arena, etc, somebody is gonna tap out.

Can Legacy break DX by submission? Or will D-Generation X once again, reign supreme over the young tag team? Find this Sunday on Pay Per View.

STAR RATING: and a 1/2.The match at SummerSlam was something I didn't expected, even a 20 minute match. I gotta give credit to Legacy for hanging with the big boys in this match. Wonder what they can do in the first-ever Subsmissions Count Anywhere Match.

PREDICTION: D-Generation X. I don't see these guys laying down to Legacy especially in a Submission Match with tag teams. This is probably something to develop the third-generation superstars for big and better things, but not at Breaking Point.

"I QUIT" MATCH FOR THE WWE CHAMPIONSHIP - RANDY ORTON (C) VS JOHN CENA

Controversy and bizarre events took over Los Angeles with the WWE Championship up for grabs for at SummerSlam. Randy Orton did everything in his power to walk out with the WWE Championship. He pushed the referee, and made his attempt to walk out of the match. However, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon wasn't having that.

He made it clear that if Orton walked out again, Cena would be champ. Orton went back in the ring but Cena caught him with the STF. Soon as Cena had control, a "fan" came in and disrupt the match which prevented Cena from becoming the WWE Champion. That "fan" would be Ted's brother Brett DiBiase.

Cena made his attempt again to bring Orton back in the ring but and an RKO on the ropes caught Cena off guard. Orton this time put the stamp in by hitting Cena with the RKO for the victory.

The next night on RAW, Vince announced that at Breaking Point, there will be a match for the WWE Championship. Randy Orton would defend his title in a rematch against John Cena but this time it would be an "I Quit" match.

As of late, the momentum has been on Randy Orton's side. Dusty Rhodes made a match between his son Cody Rhodes & Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. Also he would be in his Cody's corner and the special guest referee would be John Cena. Though at the end, Cena would be blindsided when Dusty set him up and Orton along with Rhodes and DiBiase attacked Cena.

It didn't stop there. RKO sent another message with a vicious DDT and an RKO to the chair.

At Breaking Point, both superstars are in a position where one superstar would say "I Quit" This however is in Cena's alley.

The STF has made John Cena a winner and keeper of championships. The man that embodies Hustle, Loyalty, & Respect looks to bring honor back to the WWE as champion.

For his counterpart, Randy Orton would do anything to be champion even if he manipulate others to do his dirty work. Orton has a mean streak and will not rest on his gameplan. However, could that come back and haunt him at Breaking Point?

Can RKO step outside his comfort zone and make Cena say "I Quit"? Or will Cena's patent STF destroy Orton's ego by saying those three devastating words? Find at Breaking Point to see which man goes down by submission.

STAR RATING: I know everybody gets tired of watching RAW and see the same people battle for the WWE Championship. However, you have to admit, this is gonna be a physical battle between these two.

PREDICTION: John Cena. With this type of match, I don't see Cena losing this match period. SummerSlam was a gimmie for Orton to continue this feud but Cena's gonna win Sunday Night and become WWE Champion. Also I expect these two to go at it at Hell In A Cell.

SUBMISSION MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP - CM PUNK (C) VS UNDERTAKER

This summer was the second coming for CM Punk, but in a worse way. Punk's character took a huge turn with his obsession of former WWE superstar Jeff Hardy's life. Punk didn't rest until he put an end to the career of Jeff Hardy.

At SummerSlam, Punk overcame the odds that was were TLC (Tables, Ladders, & Chairs) match which was Hardy's playground. His victory celebration wouldn't last for long when the gong hit and the lights went out.

Then the lights came back on and Punk wasn't fazed until The Undertaker was laying in the same place as Jeff Hardy. The Phenom from Death Valley sent a message with the chokeslam to Punk and let it be known that the World Heavyweight Championship was his.

Theodore Long made the match between CM Punk and Jeff Hardy in a Steel Cage but with the loser leaving the WWE for good.

The winner of that match would face the Undertaker at Breaking Point in a Submission Match. Punk's mean streak once again was victorious and Hardy was gone from the WWE.

Now, The Straightedge Champion goes to Breaking Point to defend his title against the Undertaker, but in a Submission Match. Punk's straightedge moniker has become ruthless as of late especially with his actions towards Jeff Hardy.

As for the Undertaker, this is his first match since that historic match which I think will be Match of The Year at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania against Shawn Michaels. The Deadman has been in various encounters like Hell In A Cell matches, Buried Alive matches, TLC match, First Blodd match, and even Casket Matches. This match is not as big as those matches mentioned but it's not your regular match.

At Breaking Point, can CM Punk with the deadly Anaconda Vise be able to make the Deadman submit? Or will Hell's Gate closes in on Punk and make the Underaker, new World Heavyweight Champion. It all goes down at Breaking Point.

STAR RATING: I'm looking forward to this match especially with two contrasting styles. Punk uses his unorthodox style of wrestling and Muay-Thai moves. Then you have the Undertaker who's a grappler that loves to brawl in the heat of battle. This will top the "I Quit" Match from RAW.

PREDICTION: Undertaker. I don't remember the last time that the Undertaker submit but it won't happen at Breaking Point. Taker makes his return and leave the Bell Centre, new World Champion. I do expect this rivalry to take place in the Devil's Playground that's HELL IN A CELL.

Also a gotta give a shout-out to Elisa for making it happen. He didn't announce the match but he turned an article and made it reality.

I wanna thank you guys for taking the time to read my preview, I appreciate it. Don't forget to order this event.

Countdown to WWE Breaking Point: Part 1

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 02:03:01 -0400

Before I get to the preview of WWE Breaking Point, we all should take time and pay respects to the fallen of 9/11. Also let's pray to the families of the loved ones lost in the tragedy. Let's take a moment of silence before we move on. Thank you.

To order WWE Breaking Point, call your local cable operator. If you have DIRECTV order it here or DishNetwork to order the event.

If you wanna watch it on the net order the WWE Webcast of Breaking Point or watch it on a free online stream if you don't wanna spend that money.

Shoutout to Lynyrd Skynyrd for the theme song to WWE Breaking Point "Still Unbroken". It's off the album "Gods & Guns" which will be released on Sept. 29.

Also to note, if you were looking at the Breaking Point website and found that the Morrison/Ziggler match was not in the card. They took it off. If you wanna know more click here.

UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH: CHRIS JERICHO & BIG SHOW (C) VS. MVP & MARK HENRY

The Unified Tag Team Champions, Chris Jericho & Big Show, survived another challenge at SummerSlam when they defeated Cryme Tyme after one blow (punch) from the Big Show to JTG, Jericho pinned JTG for the win.

However, the night after the Biggest Party of the Summer didn't go so well.

Undefeated boxer Floyd "Money" Mayweather was guest host of RAW that night and he had a war of words with the brash unified champions. Then came the "ballin" superstar himself MVP.

MVP made it known when he called the Unified champions that if he and a partner beat Jeri-Show on RAW, then they get a shot at Breaking Point for the tag titles.

Floyd was interested in that and that partner was "The World Strongest Man" Mark Henry.

I knew this tag team was gonna be formed but not this soon. Anyway, MVP and Mark Henry was victorious due to the brass knucks of the "Money" man himself. They received a shot at the champions at Breaking Point.

The next week on RAW, the champions gave the first punch to the challengers. YRJ was victorious over MVP and The World's Strongest Athlete defeated The World's Strongest Man. Next week was a different story.

The Price Was RAW for the champions when Bob Barker became guest host. Jericho was given a chance to win a trip to Hawaii but had to earn it against a superstar. Much to his chagrin, it was MVP, and Jericho's chance of going on a trip was canceled.

After the domination of Santino Marella, Big Show was facing another superstar but it was Mark Henry and they faced off in a "Body Slam" contest. The first wrestler to slam his opponent wins. Henry won that match by slamming the giant.

Now at Breaking Point, the game of two-upmanship is out the window when the Unified Tag Team Championships are up for grabs. Will Jeri-Show dominate another tag team? Or will MVP & Mark Henry pull off the upset? Find out which tag team prevails.

STAR RATING: and a 1/2. I'm interested to see how this match goes down. The tag teams have chemistry, but the biggest matchup out of the two tag teams are Big Show and Mark Henry. I wanna see how these two work against each other especially with the titles on the line.

PREDICTION: Chris Jericho & Big Show. The tag team duo of MVP and Mark Henry are not gonna just kiss the titles but put up a fight. However, when it's all said and done, Jeri-Show will retain their titles.

SINGAPORE CANE MATCH: THE GREAT KHALI VS. KANE

At SummerSlam, this bitter feud between The Punjabi Giant & The Big Red Monster took it course. These two battled it out but at the end, Ranjin Singh was used as bait for Kane to take the victory over The Great Khali. What we thought was the end was just the beginning.

Singh has become the subject of this rivalry. Kane points out that Khali is not as tough as he thinks, questioning him because of his care for his brother...of course, who wouldn't defend his brother?

Anyway, what was all about the Battle of the Giants turned to kidnapping and holding Singh for ransom. The rivalry was gonna take a different turn and it could swing to Khali's advantage.

Five days removed from SummerSlam, Kane took on the former Intercontinental Champion, Rey Mysterio, but at the end Kane was disqualified for not respecting the referee and ramming Mysterio to the steel post.

Then came an infuriated Punjabi Giant and his brother down the ramp to confront the Red Monster.

Both duked it out when Ranjin Singh nailed Kane in the back with a signapore cane but it had no effect on him. Kane put his hands on the Giant's brother but Khali hit him with the cane. Now we have the rematch, *yawn* but this time it's a Singapore Cane Match.

The Big Red Monster has been on a terrorizing path of destruction since his return, but could that be his downfall heading to Breaking Point? This match is in Khali's arena and he knows how to use a Signapore cane.

At Breaking Point, which giant will fall? Can Kane beat Khali in his own game? Or will The Punjabi Giant finally get his revenge on The Big Red Monster. Find out Sunday in Montreal.

STAR RATING: Honestly, I knew this rivalry would not end, but this is everybody's least favorite. Seriously, kill this feud.

PREDICTION: The Great Khali. He's gotta get a win and especially in his own match. Khali's been a jobber for months since his transition to a face. Hey, anything is possible.

ECW CHAMPIONSHIP: CHRISTIAN (C) VS WILLIAM REGAL

At SummerSlam, there was history made but for William Regal it's something that he wants to forget. As soon as Regal was about to get ready take his robe off, Captain Charisma hit Regal with the Killswitch and picked up the victory in eight seconds.

However, that was bittersweet when Regal and his cronies, Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov, dissected him. Then Regal hit the Regal Stretch on Christian.

Two days later on ECW, William Regal was outraged at what happened at SummerSlam but Tiffany gave him another opportunity to be the No. 1 contender to the ECW Championship.

William Regal defeated Christian but with the devastating headbutt by the Moscow Mauler, that enables Regal getting a shot at the title.

The next week, Christian and Tommy Dreamer returned the favor by hitting the dangerous faction with Singapore canes. However, Regal was pleased with the destruction of Christian and Dreamer. Then he gave Dreamer the Regal Stretch and reminded the ECW Champion with a kick to the head.

At Breaking Point, Christian will defend his title against William Regal but he has to worry about Jackson and Kozlov. Strength in numbers could play out in the ECW Championship Match.

Will the numbers game catch up with Captain Charisma? Or will Christian overcome the odds that are William Regal, Ezekiel Jackson, and Vladimir Kozlov to remain ECW Champion. Watch these two adversaries go at it for the ECW Championship at Breaking Point.

STAR RATING:This time, there will not be another eight seconds between these two. I expect a hard-fought match, but it won't steal the show.

PREDICTION: William Regal. As much as I want to pick Christian to win this match, the odds are stacked against him with Regal's massive cronies outside the ring.

Stay tuned for Part 2 on the Submissions Count Anywhere Match, WWE Championship Match and World Heavyweight Championship Match.

Countdown to WWE SummerSlam: Main Attraction

Kendrick Davis — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 02:58:56 -0400

The biggest event of the summer comes to the "City of Angels" as WWE SummerSlam comes to Los Angeles at the Staples Center. It's this Sunday Live and only on Pay Per View at 8pm et/5pm PT.

To order call your local cable operator, DIRECTV or Dish Network. Also order SummerSlam on the WWE Webcast or watch it on a free stream if you don't feel like paying.

Thanks to Aerosmith for the theme song "You Gotta Move" for SummerSlam. It's off of the album "Honkin on Hobo" and it's available now. Here are the matchups.

D-Generation X (Triple H & Shawn Michaels) vs Legacy (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase)

Triple H’s bitter feud with Legacy including their venomous leader and WWE Champion Randy Orton started with the attack on the McMahons.

Even though the bitter rivalry between the Game and the Viper was over, he still had to deal with Legacy. However, this time it was Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase.

The night after Night of Champions, Triple H still had his sights on not only becoming WWE Champion but destroying Randy Orton.

However, his minions had something to say about that when Ted DiBiase attacked Triple H from behind and injured his knee with a weapon. He went to the Beat The Clock Challenge not a 100 percent against Cody Rhodes due to the attack.

Things were going the Game’s way until DiBiase got in the way with time running out. Triple H hit the pedigree on Rhodes but as soon as he went for the one, two, three, the time expired.

After the match, Triple H was irate and challenged the duo to a handicap match the next week on RAW. However, he wasn’t successful in that either due to the odds stacked against him.

The King of Kings questioned whether he could handle Legacy by himself but gave some insight.

He was gonna great back the faction has been controversial in the Attitude Era, even the TV-14 era, and that group was D-Generation-X. The problem was, where is Shawn Michaels?

Ever since his match and what will be the match of the year against the Undertaker at the 25th Anniversary of WrestleMania, HBK has been M.I.A. He hasn’t been on live television since that epic match.

The Game went to Texas to find his degenerate cohort. He found him in a business corporation serving as a cook, but at the end, HBK came to his senses and was coming back to the WWE.

The long and anticipated return of D-Generation X was cut short on RAW this past Monday by Legacy. The young duo attacked the veteran group and left them laying in the ring. Legacy wanted to send a message and let it be known that they’re ready for SummerSlam.

At SummerSlam, the controversial tag team in WWE history will reunite as a tag team. However, they haven’t been partners for nine months and HBK hasn’t wrestled since April.

Will Legacy make a name for themselves by upsetting DX or will the reunited and experienced tag team in D-Generation X defeat the Viper's henchmen? It all goes down in the “City of Angels” at SummerSlam.

STAR RATING: I can't wait to see how the veterans of DX and third-generation superstars of Legacy perform against each other.

PREDICTION: D-Generation X. There’s nothing wrong with upsets, but I can’t see DX losing to Legacy. However, I do expect this rivalry to continue either way.

TABLES, LADDERS & CHAIRS MATCH FOR THE WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Jeff Hardy (C) vs CM Punk

This feud was all about the championship but now it’s become a bitter and intense rivalry between these superstars.

Jeff Hardy finally regained what was his at the Night of Champions and that was the World Heavyweight Championship. However, it was far from over at the expense of the Straightedge Superstar CM Punk.

Five days after the match, Punk came to the ring after Hardy defeated John Morrison in what was a great match for the World Title. Punk raised Hardy’s arm but it was bittersweet after that.

The obsessed and opinionated Punk attacked Hardy with the microphone which busted him in the head. Then he threw Hardy from each security wall and over the announce table.

Punk wanted to sent his message and told the Universe that the next week on Smackdown, the title was his.

At the beginning of Smackdown, the championship match was supposed to take place but at first it didn’t happen when Hardy and Punk went it. Security and Smackdown GM Teddy Long had to restrain the heated rivals.

Then came the chairman of the WWE Vince McMahon and he announced that there was gonna be a “Special Enforcer” for the main event.

That Special Enforcer was Jeff’s estranged brother Matt Hardy, every fan of the WWE Universe even Jeff Hardy was in shock of his presence. Jeff was concerned with his chances of remaining the World Heavyweight Champion, because Matt had screwed him over before.

However, things took an unexpected turn during the match. Punk was going for the Charismatic Enigma but inadvertently kicked Matt by his mistake. Punk had the opportunity to win the championship but Matt was not happy and took matters to his hands.

He prevented Punk by stopping the referee from delivering the three-count on his brother. Punk had words with Matt until Jeff found the opening and rolled him up for the three-count.

After what happened, Punk was not pleased and decided to take his frustration out on Jeff. He attacked him in the ring and threw him outside, slamming his Jeff’s head multiple times on the announce table.

Punk was not satisfied, so he took heel tactics to whole another level by placing Jeff’s head inside the chair and pushing him towards the steel post. EMT’s came to Jeff’s attention while laid out from the attack.

An infuriated Long confronted Punk and decided to give him a rematch. However, it was Jeff’s kind of match and that was the TLC Match at SummerSlam for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Jeff and Matt were the originators of TLC matches alongside The Dudleys now Team 3-D & Edge & Christian. Jeff is well experienced in ladder matches but when it comes to TLC matches, he’s a beast, especially coming off of a grueling ladder match at Extreme Rules to defeat Edge for the title. However, Punk is no stranger to ladder matches.

Punk has never been beaten in a ladder match after winning two consecutive Money In The Bank Ladder Matches at WrestleMania last year and this year. The difference with Punk in this match is that Tables & Chairs are involved alongside the Ladders.

Punk has been obsessed with the fact that the WWE Universe has been loyal to Jeff Hardy despite his bout with drug addiction. He feels that the fans have turned on him and that was the reason for his heel-tactic ways.

As for Jeff, he’s come along way from fighting drug abuse to winning his first world championship last year at Armageddon. Now, he has to overcome to the wrath of CM Punk’s hatred towards him and keep his World Heavyweight Championship.

At SummerSlam, these two unorthodox superstars put not only their bodies on the line but their reputation for the right to be World Heavyweight Champion.

This main question will Jeff be healthy in time for the TLC match and be able to remain champion? Or will CM Punk’s rage be his focal point to beome a champion again.

Don’t miss this non-stop action with Tables, Ladders, & Chairs involved for these two to dish out on each other at SummerSlam.

STAR RATING: This is gonna be the climax to the Punk-Hardy rivalry but it will be a damn good match especially a TLC match. As a fan of ladder matches, this match will get people out of their seats.

PREDICTION: CM Punk: The future of Jeff Hardy is in question with the WWE. Also, you have to look at the gift and the curse of being World Heavyweight Champion. The champion from last year has not had a long reign of being a World Champion.

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP

Randy Orton (C) vs John Cena

If it wasn’t for Shaquille O’Neal making the Beat The Clock Challenge, John Cena wouldn’t be in this position to face the Viper known as Randy Orton at SummerSlam.

It had to take MVP, Triple H & Jack Swagger to miss out on being the contender for John Cena to beat The Miz and Mark Henry’s time to become the number one contender for Orton’s title.

The advantage has been on Cena’s side. After beating the odds that was RAW Guest Host Jeremy Piven and his handpicked wrestlers for the Lumberjack Match against The Miz.

He overcame the odds that was the Big Show & Chris Jericho even though his tag partner was Randy Orton.

RKO has been on a warpath for months. Terrorizing the McMahon Family, to injuring both Batista and Shane McMahon with the help of Legacy. Then he even gave a devastating backbreaker to movie star and guest host of RAW Freddie Prinze Jr.

This is not the first time that these two have met . These guys were in a heated rivalry that involved the punt to Cena’s father and Cena to be put on the shelf by Orton. Now Cena has his sights on becoming WWE Champion after losing the World Heavyweight Championship at Backlash.

Cena had to overcome giants, loudmouths, egotists, and even injuries to be where he is in Main Event status.

As for Orton, coming from a wrestling family to being the youngest member of Evolution and student of former mentor Ric Flair and now rival Triple H, Orton has used old-fashioned tactics and power to be champion.

At the Staples Center, the house where the Lakers hold their championship banners, these two superstars will battle it out to be WWE Champion.

Will the head man of Legacy continue his wrath in the WWE? Or will the battle-tested superstar John Cena get in the way of Orton and win the WWE Championship? Don’t miss out as these two face off in the Main Event at SummerSlam.

STAR RATING: It may not be better than the Punk/Hardy match, but this is a match that will be good as second.

PREDICTION: Randy Orton. I thought about picking John Cena, but this rivalry will continue especially in Cena’s favor at Breaking Point due to submission rules. It’s not time to take strap off of Orton’s waist.

Countdown to WWE SummerSlam: Mid-Card Action

Kendrick Davis — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 02:25:53 -0400

The Biggest Event of the Summer comes to the "City of Angels" as WWE SummerSlam comes to Los Angeles at the Staples Center. It's this Sunday Live and only on Pay Per View at 8pm et/5pm PT.

To order call your local cable operator, DIRECTV or Dish Network. Also order SummerSlam on the WWE Webcast or watch it on a free stream if you don't feel like paying.

Thanks to Aerosmith for the theme song "You Gotta Move" for SummerSlam. It's off of the album "Honkin on Hobo" and it's available now. Here are the matchups.

WWE UNIFIED TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Chris Jericho & Big Show (C) vs Cryme Tyme

After Edge was injured, the Rated R Superstar relinquished half of the unified titles due to him being out of action until next year. Chris Jericho had a plan to add a special stipulation where he can choose a partner to be one half of unified the tag team titles.

As the mystery and buzz of who was gonna be a Jericho’s partner at Night of Champions to face Legacy members Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase.

The mystery partner was revealed, but no one expected the Big Show to be Y2J’s partner. Why was it a shock to WWE Universe?

Big Show was supposed to compete in the Six Pack Challenge for the United States Championship which later on Primo took his place.

These two were never the best of friends but manage two put their differences aside to be a new tag team. After it was all said and done, Jericho & Big Show was successful over the Legacy duo.

The next night on RAW, they had a little run-in with guest host and NBA Superstar with four titles Shaquille O’Neal, which ignited a feud with the Brooklyn duo and stars of “Word Up,” Cryme Tyme.

Few days later on Smackdown, Cryme Tyme had to get past the Hart Dynasty to become No. 1 contenders for the WWE Unified Tag Team Championship at SummerSlam.

The next week on RAW, JTG gave Cryme Tyme some momentum by defeating Chris Jericho, however the tables were turned.

JTG had to face the World’s Largest Athlete on Smackdown but was unsuccessful after Show beat him with the Cobra Clutch. It ended up with both Jericho & Show taking down Cryme Tyme.

At SummerSlam, can Cryme Tyme go against all odds to become the Unified Tag Team Champions or will Y2J & the Big Show reign supreme at the end? Find out this Sunday at the Staples Center only on Pay-Per-View.

STAR RATING: It's not gonna be the best of tag team matches but it will be interesting to see how these two tag teams perform against each other.

PREDICTION: Chris Jericho & Big Show - My heart wants to pick Cryme Tyme because they deserve to be champions. However, the WWE wants to keep thing with Y2J & Show going, especially staying as Unified Tag Team Champions.

Jack Swagger vs MVP

Since Swagger's arrival to RAW via the 15 superstar/diva trade made by Donald Trump, he has made an enemy out of the "Ballin" superstar. Week after his debut on RAW, Swagger made his appearance on the MVP Lounge but things didn't go so smoothly between the two.

Jack Swagger took a verbal shot at MVP about his past and said he doesn't fight "criminals". Why would Jack say that? MVP has had a rough life on the streets of Miami. He joined a gang at age 12 and spent six months in a juvenile detention center. He also served 9 and 1/2 years in what was supposed to be an 18 and a 1/2 year prison sentence due to armed robbery and kidnapping.

MVP even admitted that made a mistake but he's a changed man and this set up a match between him and Jack Swagger. A week later on RAW, Swagger was victorious over MVP. It didn't stop there.

Swagger added fuel to the fire by getting involved in MVP's matches. That led to the double-team of MVP by Swagger and The Masterpiece Chris Masters. Masters had MVP by the Master Lock while Swagger slapped him. Also Swagger gave a devastating powerbomb to MVP.

Now at SummerSlam, MVP gets his chance to get revenge on the cocky All-American American. MVP has to be careful of what Swagger can bring to the ring. He's skilled as a mat wrestler and even played College Football in his days. This intense rivalry has been brewing and will be settled at the Staples Center.

Will Swagger continue his dominance over MVP? Or will the street-smart superstar overcome the challenge known as the All-American American. Tune to SummerSlam to witness this heated rivalry.

STAR RATING: Not a bad matchup but not a four star matchup to steal the show. Interesting styles meet and it would be great to see these two go at it again.

PREDICTION: MVP. Swagger is talented and one day will be world champion in the future. However, MVP has come a long way to the WWE from surviving the streets and even jail. It's time for MVP to even the series by beating Swagger.

The Great Khali vs. Kane

The rivalry between these two began at The Bash where Kane made an unexpected return that cost The Great Khali his match against Dolph Ziggler two months ago.

On the Aug. 7 edition of Smackdown, Kane took things to another level between the

two. After the Punjabi Playboy defeated former WWE superstar Ricky Ortiz in a quick match, Kane’s music and pyro hit but no sound sign of Kane.

Khali and his translator Ranjin Singh didn’t see him until Kane came from behind and attacked Khali. Soon he had his eyes set on Singh and dragged him out the arena.

Next week’s episode, Kane held Ranjin Singh hostage in a room somewhere in the arena and gave a ransom to Khali. The Punjabi Warrior saved his translator but was attacked by Kane with a metal pipe. Singh was horrified after being held hostage by Kane.

Last time that these two were in the same ring was at WrestleMania 23. The Great Khali (heel version) defeated Kane in that match. Now these two monsters collide at The Bigger Event of the Summer.

Will Khali finally get his revenge or will The Big Red Monster continue to wreak havoc over Khali? Watch these two giants go at it at SummerSlam.

STAR RATING: There was no doubt in my mind that this match was gonna be made due to the buildup. However this is one match that I don’t really care for.

PREDICTION: Kane. Ever since Khali's face turn from a heel, he hasn't been successful. He’s been more of a jobber instead being dominant. I expect The Big Red Monster to defeat Khali and even the series between the two.

ECW CHAMPIONSHIP

Christian (C) vs William Regal

Christian has gone through some tough matches to become ECW Champion. First it was getting past the Moscow Mauler Vladimir Kozlov to become the No. 1 contender.

Then at Night of Champions he had to beat Tommy Dreamer to win the ECW Championship. Then a week later, he faced Tommy Dreamer but this time in a Extreme Rules match with ECW Championship.

Christian had to go through the pain to keep the ECW title by hitting the Killswitch on Dreamer but on the car door. So who was next in line to challenge Captain Charisma?

A week after the grueling Extreme Rules match, Christian made an appearance on The Abraham Washington Show. Gosh, I hate that guy.

Anyway, the talk was supposed to be on Christian until Washington gave him some breaking news. He told Christian that the person that was next in line for the ECW Championship was the snobbish but fighting Brit, William Regal.

Regal wanted to make a statement by taking on Christian's friend Tommy Dreamer. However at the end, Regal was victorious over Dreamer but it didn't stop there.

This past Tuesday on ECW, Dreamer was attacked by Regal & Vladimir Kozlov. The plot was to take out Dreamer because he was supposed to be Christian's partner against the Regal & Kozlov.

ECW GM Tiffany gave Christian an opportunity to pick a partner due to the attack on Dreamer that kept him out of the match.

As soon as the three superstars came out, the mystery partner was about to come to the ring. Out comes Ezekiel Jackson who has been in an couple of "Anything you can do, I can do better" episodes with the Moscow Mauler.

Soon as Jackson was tagged in by Christian, Jackson turned his back on Captain Charisma and attacked him. This led to Regal raising the arms of both Ezekiel Jackson & Vladimir Kozlov.

At SummerSlam, Christian defends the ECW Championship against William Regal but the question is about Christian health due to Tuesday's attack.

Will Captain Charisma be able to hold on to the ECW Championship or will the odds be in favor of William Regal to become ECW Champion? Find out at SummerSlam to witness the ECW Championship match.

STAR RATING:Sometimes a first time is not bad and I look forward to seeing these two guys in the ring.

PREDICTION: Christian

WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Rey Mysterio (C) vs Dolph Ziggler

It's something about this rivalry that won't die. After Mysterio defeated the brash superstar, opportunity once again came to Dolph Ziggle. Ziggler had to go through Finlay, Mike Knox & R-Truth in a Fatal Four Way Match to get at Rey Mysterio in a rematch for the WWE Intercontinental Championship with Rey sitting at the announce table looking on.

Ever since his arrival to Smackdown. Ziggler has made an impact by beating the likes of The Great Khali-three times, R-Truth & John Morrison. He even has WWE Diva Maria by his side. The only thing that's missing is gold and at SummerSlam, Dolph looks to even the score against 619 to win the Intercontinental Championship.

Ziggler has had his target on Rey Mysterio from the beginning. It all began with Dolph attacking Mysterio from behind after he scored a victory over Unified Tag Team Champion Chris Jericho.

With his size, Rey Mysterio had to overcome giants, technical wrestlers, and a emotional loss of the late Eddie Guerrero to get where he is in the WWE. Now, he has to get past Dolph again to remain the Intercontinental Champion. Dolph is no slouch and will make things difficult for the master of the 619.

At SummerSlam, these two adversaries meet again for the Intercontinental Championship. The question is will Dolph finally add the Intercontinental Championship to his resume? Or, will Rey once again survive the challenge from Dolph Ziggler. To watch the Intercontinental Championship, tune to SummerSlam live from the Staples Center.

STAR RATING: Watching their matches is interesting but seeing these guys going each other is amazing. This match will be better than the last one at Night of Champions.

PREDICTION: Dolph Ziggler - This time Ziggler will win this match and become Intercontinental Champion. After what he did since his move to Smackdown, he deserves to be champion. Rey will get a shot at the World Title in the future, but he's not a mid-carder.

WWE Release Ricky Ortiz

Kendrick Davis — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:38:34 -0400

Even though it was the weekend, WWE still had business to take care of. They released Smack Down superstar Ricky Ortiz on Saturday. This announcement was made on WWE.com.

On July 1st, 2008 Ortiz made his debut on ECW, under the name "Atlas Ortiz" and defeated ex-ECW GM Armando Estrada. The next week, in a segment with former WWE diva Lena Yada, he wanted to be referred to as Ricky Ortiz.

He went 5-0 but soon tasted defeated as a singles competitor. He lost to Jack Swagger on Dec 2, 2008. Swagger himself was undefeated at the time.

Ortiz was drafted to SmackDown via WWE Supplemental Draft on April 15th, 2009. Since his arrival, he hasn't been victorious in his matches. In his debut as a heel, he lost to Jeff Hardy on May 15th. His last match was last Friday against The Great Khali. Khali defeated Ortiz in a quick match.

WWE released a statement saying. "WWE has come to terms on the release of SmackDown Superstar Ricky Ortiz as of today, Aug. 8, 2009. We wish Ricky the best in all future endeavors."

Michael Crabtree Has A Big Ego

Kendrick Davis — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:11:53 -0400

Beyonce's "Ego" should be the theme song for Michael Crabtree after recent events with the 49ers. News broke around 12:30 today on SportsCenter when David Wells, Crabtree's adviser and cousin, said that the wide receiver was preparing to sit out the 2009 season and re-enter the draft next year. Of course, it was about money.

Wells said that Michael wants a fair market value. He even explained how it's not fair that fellow draftee Raiders wide receiver Darrius-Heyward Bey (seventh overall pick) gets a $38.25 million, but Crabtree is not getting the kind of money he wants.

Here's the difference with the Raiders & 49ers. The Raiders are looking to build in the passing game, and DHB is looked at as the future of the franchise. As for the 49ers, Crabtree has starter potential, but the top guy on the receiving core is Isaac Bruce. Also, the organizations are run differently.

This is another reason why rookies shouldn't receive big contracts. It's like when they get drafted, they all of a sudden think they're on top of the world. However, they did not go through the wear and tear on Sundays to become a great player. When I read the article by Dan Parzych on rookies earning big contracts over veterans who paved the way for these guys, it was the truth.

Why would you sit out the entire year and re-enter the draft? Yeah he could re-enter himself for next year and be the first receiver picked—the WR class for next year's draft is not strong.

However, teams are cautious when looking at a player's actions, even motives. This is not only a slap in the face to the San Franscisco 49ers, but to the 31 teams and the NFL as a whole. Here's the thing: there could have been discussions of a new deal; but you gotta get out there and earn that contract, not cry and complain like a kid with a silver spoon in your mouth.

Ever since the game against Texas in which Crabtree caught that game-winning touchdown, his ego got bigger than Texas, no pun intended. Does it destroy his career? Kinda. Does it destroy his credibility? Yes. What about his character? Yes

You want to make a good impression and show humility, not only as a player, but as a human. How do you expect not only the organization but your peers (teammates and opponents) to take you seriously? It's puts a bad stain on your reputation and how you wanna build yourself in the pros.

What's sad about this is that Crabtree is one of hell of a player. He's athletic, has a nice set of hands, and possesses a perfect build for a prototype receiver. However, it's all about personality and it stands out to the public.

I think it would be bad idea to sit out and start over from scratch. He can't go back to Texas Tech and say "Hey, I wanna come back for my senior season". To make a decision to forgo your years in college for the next level, that's it. There's no turning back when making a decision like that.

Hopefully, Crabtree reconsiders his decision and get on the field. It's sad to waste your God-given abilities/talents over foolishness of wanting a big contract.

Top 10 Rookies from the Second-Seventh Round Who Will Make an Impact in 2009 Part Two: Defense

Kendrick Davis — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:41:30 -0400

Before we look at Part 2 on the defense, I would like to thank you to those who read and comment on Part 1 of this article. Even i I didn't get over 3,000 reads, I wanted this article to be recognized for the hard work I put in. I sound like I'm giving a speech at a awards show lol, but seriously I wanna say thank you for making it a success. For part two of this article, I'm gonna be honest. Other than the top three, this had to be the toughest selection to put together based on the talent on defense. These guys have the potential to become startersThere's gonna be something different with this article but I think it was good idea to add these guys in my top 10. Let me stop talking and get to the top 10 but first let's look at guys who didn't make it but will make an impact this season. BONUS PLAYERS TO LOOK AT Jasper Brinkley LB Minnesota Fifth Round Draft Pick Roy Miller DT Tampa Bay Third Round Draft Pick Jarius Wynn DE Green Bay Sixth Round Draft Pick Jason Williams LB Dallas Third Round Draft Pick Michael Hamlin S Dallas Fifth Round Draft Pick Scott McKillop LB San Francisco Fifth Round Draft Pick Sammie Hill DT Detroit Fourth Round Draft Pick Kevin Ellison S San Diego Sixth Round Draft Pick Jeremy Jarmon DE Washington's Supplemental Draft Pick Kevin Huber P Cincinnati Fifth Round Draft Pick Pat McAfee P Indianapolis Seventh Round Draft Pick Lawrence Sidbury, Jr DE Atlanta Fourth Round Draft Pick Ryan Mouton CB/KR Tennessee Third Round Draft Pick Alex Magee DT Kansas City Third Round Draft Pick Keenan Lewis CB Pittsburgh Third Round Draft Pick Rashad Johnson S Arizona Third Round Draft Pick Sherrod Martin CB Carolina Second Round Draft Pick Bradley Fletcher CB St Louis Third Round Draft Pick PLAYERS OUTSIDE OF THE TOP 10 20a.Kyle Moore DE Tampa Bay Fourth Round Draft Pick 20b.Terrence Knighton DT Jacksonville Third Round Draft Pick 19a.Jairus Byrd CB Buffalo Second Round Draft Pick 19b.Michael Mitchell S Oakland Second Round Draft Pick 18.David Veikune DE, Cleveland Second Round Draft Pick 17.Alphonso Smith CB Denver Second Round Draft Pick 16.Sean Smith CB Miami Second Round Draft Pick 15.DJ Moore CB Chicago Fourth Round Draft Pick 14.Clint Sintim LB NY Giants Second Round Draft Pick 13.William Moore S Atlanta Second Round Draft Pick 12.Sen'Derrick Marks DT Tennessee Second Round Draft Pick 11.Dorell Scott DT St Louis Third Round Draft Pick

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BREAKING NEWS: Brett Favre Will Stay Retired

Kendrick Davis — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:03:56 -0400

The Star Tribune reports Brett Favre informed Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress that he will stay retired.

Childress confirmed to the Star Tribune the news of Favre's continued retirement. This leaves the competition open between Tarvaris Jackson and former Houston Texans QB Sage Rosenfels for the starting position. Favre had surgery in May to repair a torn biceps tendon that he suffered from last season.

"I just think it was a rare opportunity to explore a Hall of Fame quarterback who had background in the NFC and in this division," Childress said to the newspaper. "He knows our system inside out...This doesn't change anything about how I feel about our football team."

If this is indeed the end for Favre, he finishes his career with 5,720 career completions; 9,280 career passing attempts; 464 career TDs; 65,127 career passing yards; and 310 interceptions. He started 269 consecutive games (291 including the playoffs). He was a 10-time Pro Bowl Selection (1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001-2003, 2007, 2008), 3-time First All-Pro Team Selection (1995-97). Also a 5-time NFC Player of the Year (1995-1997, 2002 & 2007) and 3-time Second All-Pro Team Selection (2001, 2002, 2007). He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1991 in the second round.

Favre went to Green Bay and played 16 seasons with the Packers. He won his first Super Bowl in 1997, when the Packers defeated the New England Patriots 35-21 in Super Bowl XXXI. He won three consecutive AP MVP awards (1995-1997), last shared with Lions RB Barry Sanders, as one of only two NFL players (Peyton Manning) to do so.

Two months after the Packers lost to the Giants in the NFC Championship, Favre previously announced his retirement on March 4, 2008. Later, he was reinstated with the NFL on July 29, 2008. The Packers then traded Favre to the New York Jets on August 4, 2008, in exchange for a conditional fourth-round pick. In his time with the Jets, they went 8-3 before a 1-5 collapse toward the end of the season. His best game was against the Arizona Cardinals (56-35, Jets over Cards) where he went 24 for 34, threw for 289 yds and 6 TDs with an INT in Week 4.

On February 11, 2009, Favre told the Jets that he was going to retire after playing 18 seasons in the NFL.

Countdown To WWE Night Of Champions

Kendrick Davis — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 13:57:31 -0400

What's up Wrestling World/Bleachers? I'm back once again with the Countdown To Night of Champions. It's a night where every championship is on the line. This event will take place live from the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, PA. Shoutouts to Philly.

To order the event, call your local cable provider, DIRECTV or Dish Network. If you don't like swiping the card, watch the Night of Champions on a free online stream. I have found the best free website to watch WWE PPV's is This.

Come join me as I breakdown each championship match. I will rate the match and preditct the winners. Also after every PPV, I will bring you "The Day After", a fallout of the PPV, results and what next for the wrestlers. Let's not wait and here we go.

Six Pack Challenge for the WWE United States Championship - Kofi Kingston (WWE United States Champion) vs. Big Show vs. MVP vs. Jack Swagger vs. Carlito vs. The Miz

Kofi Kingston has found himself in uncharted territory and faces his toughest challenge to date. At Night of Champions, he's not only has to face one but five challengers in the Six Pack Challenge for the WWE United States Championship. So how did it all go down like this?

We all know there's been tension between Kingston & the Big Show as of late. It started with a match between Kingston & Evan Bourne and after when the Big Show attacked both superstars.

Then on a July 13th episode of RAW, Big Show defeated the high flyer Bourne but had him in a cobra clutch afterwards causing Kingston who did color commentary to rescue Bourne from the Big Show.

Another feud that has nothing really to do with the title is the beef between Jack Swagger & MVP. On the July 6th edition of RAW, Jack Swagger was a guest on MVP's VIP Lounge and let's say the visit didn't go all too well. The next week they had a match but Swagger came away with the victory.

MVP looks to regain the United States Championship but Swagger is no stranger to winning a championship. He won the ECW Championship in January and now coming to RAW, he looks to win another title.

Ever since losing the Unified Tag Team Championships at The Bash, Carlito has changed for the worse. On a July 6th episode of RAW, the tag team of Carlito and his brother Primo came to an end after a rematch against Edge & Jericho, Carlito attacks Primo. Now back to singles competition Carlito looks to gain the United States Championship for the first time since his debut in 2004 over John Cena.

The Miz, well I have a beef with him in this match. I felt Primo or Evan Bourne should have been in this match but Bourne is out with a neck injury nothing drastic though. Primo would have made sense because of his beef with Carlito.

However, there's a reason why he was added to this match. I feel the WWE is giving him another chance after leaving him high and dry against Cena at The Bash. This would not be a surprise if Miz left Night of Champions the new United States Champion.

At Night of Champions, will Kofi do everything to overcome the odds that is the Six Pack Challenge or will there be a new champion crowned in Philadelphia? We'll found out tonight.

STAR RATING: I don't think this match will be that big of a deal. It's just something thrown together at the last minute. That's why I give it 3 stars.

PREDICTION: Jack Swagger - I think Swagger will win because this guy is on the rise and I expect good things from me. He will make an impact but I wouldn't be surprised if The Miz we're to come out of this match the winner.

The pressure's on Kofi and as much as I like him as champion, I don't see him winning this match.

WWE Women's Championship - Michelle McCool (WWE Women's Champion) vs. Melina

Just when you think that feud between McCool & Melina was over, think again. These two women will go at it again for the Women's Championship but this time McCool walks into the match as champion.

Michelle did what over divas in the WWE have never done in their careers. At The Bash, Michelle got some help from then protege Alicia Fox now to RAW to make history by beating Melina. She made history by becoming the first diva to hold both the Divas & Women's Championship.

The monmentum had changed when Melina won two matches over Michelle and Fox in tag team competition. With Alicia Fox moving to RAW, McCool may not have a chance of keeping the title. This now sets up a rematch which was made this week as Michelle McCool and Melina go one and one again for the Women's Championship.

Will McCool be able to retain the title or will Melina win back what was hers? It all goes down tonight at the Night of Champions in Philadelphia.

STAR RATING: This match will not be bad, but not popular. The women's division hasn't been much of a priority as of late and I don't expect this match to better.

PREDICTION: Melina - I feel if Michelle holds onto the title, it would be a waste because of the lack of faces on the show. Yeah you have Maria and Eve Torres, but they're not real wrestlers.

Melina wins because she's coming into her own and I have been impressed with her. I could see a rivalry with Natalya next if she wins the title.

WWE Intercontinental Championship - Rey Mysterio (WWE Intercontinental Champion) vs. Dolph Ziggler

Dolph Ziggler has made a huge transition since coming to Smackdown via the Supplemental Draft. His body of work holds impressive victories over The Great Khali three times, R-Truth and John Morrison. Also he has Maria drooling over him. Now he goes on to Night of Champions to take on Rey Mysterio for the Intercontinental Championship.

How did these two come about?

On the July 10th edition of Smackdown, after Mysterio defeated Jericho in a rematch over the Intercontinental Championship, he was attacked from behind by "Mr Perfection" himself. Dolph threw Mysterio to the lions as he was decimated by Edge and Jericho. Then to top it off, Ziggler hits the neckbreaker on Mysterio.

The next week on WWE Superstars, these two crossed paths again. However, this time things were about to shake up. Rey Mysterio made his opinions loud and clear about what happened. This caused Ziggler to make a challenge for the Intercontinental Championship.

Rey Mysterio has gone through some events himself. He had to beat Chris Jericho at The Bash not only to win the Intercontinental Championship, but to keep his mask. This time he faces a wrestler that has been on a tear and presents a very formidable challenge in Dolph Ziggler.

What happens when these two cross paths? Will Ziggler continue his impressive on the Smackdown brand by becoming Intercontinental Champion or will Mysterio overcome Ziggler to retain the title. It all goes down at Night of Champions tonight.

STAR RATING:It's not gonna be a show stealer but this will be an excellent match.

PREDICTION: Dolph Ziggler - I've been impressed with this guy and expect more out of him. I like Rey but he belongs in the main event picture, that's why I pick Dolph to pull the upset.

ECW Championship - Tommy Dreamer (ECW Champion) vs. Christian

ECW Champion Tommy Dreamer and Christian have a long history in the wrestling business. These guys are friends but that friendship will be put to the test as the ECW Championship is up for grabs in Philadelphia. How did the frenemy feud come about?

Two weeks ago, Christian was in a match against the Moscow Mauler Vladimir Kozlov where the winner will get a shot at Dreamer's title at NoC. This was a hard match and Kozlov threw everything at him but at the end Captain Charisma came away with the win and became the number one contender at Night of Champions.

Tommy Dreamer gotten his wish because he said on that same night we would love to face Christian at the Night of Champions.

Tommy Dreamer has come a long way to be the ECW Champion again. First he had to win the Hardcore Triple Threat Match for the ECW title at Extreme Rules, his first since 2000, to stay in the WWE. He had a one-day extension which paid off in the end. Than at The Bash, he was in a Championship Scramble Match but squeak his way out of the match to beat Christian and former ECW wrestlers Finlay, Jack Swagger, and Mark Henry.

Now he faces his toughest challenge against Christian who has a track record of winning championships.

Captain Charisma was nine-time WWF/WWE Tag Team Champion, WWF Hardcore Champion, WWF European Champion, WWF Light Heavyweight Champion and three-time WWF/E Intercontinental Champion. At TNA he won the TNA World Heavyweight Championship two times before returning to the WWE and winning his first ECW Championship.

The fireworks exploded on that tool Abraham Washington's show. God, I despise this Arsenio Hall wannabe with the fist-pump. Anyway back to what happen. Things got tense when Christian & Dreamer argued with each other. However, things got heated when personal jabs were thrown and slaps were delivered.

The ECW Championship is on the line where the friendship of Tommy Dreamer & Christian are put to the side. Will the Innovator of Violence keep the ECW legacy going or will Captain Charisma end the homecoming and become a two-time ECW Champ. Witness it live at the Night of Champions on PPV.

STAR RATING:It'll be an okay match but not a four-star match.

PREDICTION: Christian - I like Dreamer and all, but how long is he gonna hold on to the ECW Championship? Nothing against him, but I don't see a real push with him. Captain Charisma should have one more reign before going to Smackdown then Shelton Benjamin would be on deck to challenge for the ECW title.

Unified Tag Team Championship - Chris Jericho & A Mystery Partner (Unified Tag Team Champions) vs. Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

This has been a change of events as late with the Unified Tag Team Championship picture. First you had Smackdown GM Theodore Long making a shocking announcement and making the Unified Tag Team Championship Match a Triple Threat. Edge & Chris Jericho, the third wheel of the match wins the the titles.

"Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase was guest GM on RAW and he made an announcement regarding his son Ted DiBiase Jr and Cody Rhodes. They we're to get another shot at the Unified Tag Team Champions Edge and Chris Jericho at the Night of Champions.

Then on July 3rd, the tag team title picture changed in a big way. Edge tore his achillies tendon at a house show against Jeff Hardy. He will be out of action for at least six months. WWE Universe has shown it's concern and support in Edge but not Chris Jericho. Before I get to that, there was a debate over what to do with the titles.

Us the wrestling community of the Bleacher Report have had strong views about the Tag Team titles and what to do. Some say give to Legacy, some said a battle royal and in an article I made about the situation, I threw my two cents in and said that it should be a fatal four way tag team match for the titles. Now back to the story.

Jericho called Edge the "weakling" of the tag team and regret of having the Rated R Superstar as a tag partner. He had a plan though to make sure the titles were to stay even if Edge was out of action. There was a contract made for Y2J to have a partner of his choosing if something were to happen to Edge which unfortunately it did.

There have been names thrown around like The Miz, which as of late him and Y2J have had a war of words at Twitter. Also Mike Knox, Charlie Haas, The Brian Kendrick, etc. Even Christian, Edge's kayfabe brother has been thrown in the mix but he's competing for the ECW Championship. Dolph Ziggler's name has been thrown in the picture but he challenges Rey Mysterio for the Intercontinental Championship.

One name that raises eyebrows is Chris Masters who recently signed a contract with WWE.

As for Legacy, it hasn't been peachy as of late for the group. First you had disagreements between the Viper Randy Orton and Ted DiBiase, a match made by the Million Man between the two, even the tag team duo having a little bickering within, but nothing major. They have a chance to win the Unified Tag Team Championship, something that they didn't achieve last month.

At the Night of Champions, the identity of Y2J's partner will be revealed but who will it be? How well with the team of Jericho and his mystery partner pan out? Will Legacy finally become the Unified Tag Team Champions? Find out tonight on Pay Per View.

STAR RATING: I would have given it four stars but without Edge I'll give it three instead.

PREDICTION: Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase - This tag team duo will win no matter which partner Jericho has in his corner. It's time for the third-generation superstars to take the next step instead of being good for only doing Randy Orton's dirty work.

WWE Divas Championship - Maryse (WWE Divas Champion) vs Mickie James

Maryse is finding out sometimes if you run from a fight, the fight will come to you.

Ever since Maryse arrived to RAW by the WWE Draft, she has not made the best of friends especially one Mickie James. James has won matches over Maryse and the were questions on whether Maryse was intimidated by the challenge of Mickie.

On the June 26th edition of RAW, there was a fatal four way match for the right to be the number one contender at Night of Champions. Mickie earned her shot by defeating Beth Phoenix, Kelly Kelly & Rosa Mendes and getting a shot at the Divas Champion Maryse.

Maryse may be just a pretty face but she is tenacious in the ring and do anything she can to be champion. As for Mickie James, she's a vet at winning championships and Maryse has to avoid any mistake in the match for her to lose the title.

Will the arrogant Canadian finally prevent Mickie from becoming champion or will Mickie look to become second behing Michelle to hold both the Divas and Women's Championship. Find out as these two fierce divas go at it at the Night of Champions.

STAR RATING:I'm looking forward to this match and it will own the Women's Championship. This is worth four stars.

PREDICTION: Mickie James - This is tough because I like both of these divas especially Maryse, yummy. Oh, anyway Maryse has had the belt for quite some since last year and it's time for that to end. Mickie has a resume of being a champion and it's her time to become Divas champion.

World Heavyweight Championship - CM Punk (World Heavyweight Champion) vs Jeff Hardy

This rivalry has gone from competing for the World Heavyweight Champion title to personal jabs. 2009 so far hasn't bode well for Jeff Hardy. First at the Royal Rumble, his brother Matt Hardy costs him the World Heavyweight Championship, then the person responsible for the attacks was Matt, then again Matt costs him his chance as champion at Judgment Day.

Now at this time Hardy would have bee champion til that night at Extreme Rules but Punk cashed in his briefcase and won the title.

At The Bash, the curse kept on coming for Hardy but it wasn't his fault. Jeff thought he won the World title back but Punk's foot was under the ropes. At the end CM Punk kept the title, but how he kept it was very controversial.

Punk kicked the referee by mistake in which he claimed was an eye injury which Jeff won by disqualification but didn't win the title. However, Jeff wasn't buying the fact that Punk's eye was really injured and he attacked him at the end of the match.

Ever since Punk won the title after Hardy's hard fought victory at Extreme Rules, he's become a target of the WWE Universe. Most of the fans felt that Punk stole Hardy's moment as being a champion. Punk plead his case about being the right opportunity but the fans and Jeff were not buying it. Still he didn't help himself even more with the fans.

He was once a fan favorite and loved by fans. Now, after recent events, Punk has taken the easy way out. He would forfeit matches because of his eye injury, he would run away from a fight which he never did, he would do heel-like tactics by hitting John Morrison with the GTS after losing to the Shaman of Sexy, attacking Hardy from behind. Plus his attitude has changed.

This Friday was definitely official that Punk was a true heel. In un-Straightedge fashion he attacked the WWE Universe by supporting Jeff Hardy because of his bouts with drug addiction.

Punk feels that the fans are being sucked in by the negativity of Jeff Hardy which is a fan favorite and look at him as a role model. In Punk's eyes it's a sign of betrayal but to the fans they love Jeff for who he is. This upset Jeff even more as he stood up for the Universe and said how he felt about Punk.

Now at Night of Champions, this bitter rivalry hits an all-time high when these two square off for the World Heavyweight Championship. Can Punk look to retain his title or will the Charismatic Enigma known as Jeff Hardy takes back what rightfully was his? We'll found in Philadelphia, tonight.

STAR RATING: This match will be better than the last match at The Bash. This feud is getting better and hopefully it will continue after Night of Champions. This will be a fight.

PREDICTION: CM Punk - I think Punk will come out the victor in this match. WWE is pushing hard for CM Punk to be a strong heel on Smackdown and also have a long reign as champion.

As far as Jeff Hardy goes, his future with the WWE is in the air. If he does stay, I do expect the feud between him & Punk to continue until SummerSlam. If not I see Punk taking on Rey Mysterio or John Morrison at SummerSlam.

Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship - Randy Orton (WWE Champion) vs. John Cena vs Triple H

For months, we have witnessed the bitter rivalry that is with former Evolution mates Randy Orton and Triple H. Orton has been on a terrorizing path, destroying Triple H's family The McMahons.

In April, Orton put HHH out of action with a severe kick to the skull at Backlash. Then after Legacy took out Batista, Triple H came back with a vengeance and destroyed Legacy including the WWE Champion Randy Orton.

Now it's becoming stale but a new element comes to play and that's John Cena. How did these three combustible elements come about?

The night after The Bash where Randy Orton was successful over Triple H in the Three Stages of Hell match, Batista was guest host on RAW. The Animal came up with an idea for a four-wrestler tournament where the winner would go on to face Randy Orton at the Night of Champions for the WWE Championship. Triple H defeated MVP in the first match and John Cena once again owned The Miz to advance to the final to take on The Game.

That match between HHH and Cena came to an end where Legacy members got involved so there was no winner. However, to the chagrin of Million Dollar Man, Ted DiBiase, even though there was not a winner...there was no loser.

So he made the match for Night of Champions but it was a Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship with the Viper putting his title on the line against Triple H and John Cena.

This is not the first time that the top three superstars of RAW have met in a Triple Threat Match. Last year at WrestleMania XXIV, Randy was the WWE Champion and he defeated HHH and Cena. This time he might not slither his way out of Philadelphia with the WWE Championship.

Will RKO overcome both adversaries to keep his title? Will HHH win back the title that was his after losing it at Backlash. Will Cena Attitude Adjustment himself win become champion but as the WWE Champion. Three worlds collide in this huge match and it all takes place at the Wachovia Center.

STAR RATING:This is not gonna be the match that will steal the show but it won't be boring with these three.

PREDICTION: Randy Orton - I think he should stay as WWE Champion when SummerSlam comes around but there have been rumors going around about HHH/Cena as the main event next month. If that were to happen where would that leave Orton?

Somehow, Orton's gonna keep the belt and his cohorts Rhodes/DiBiase will make sure Orton leaves the City of Brotherly Love as WWE Champion.

Don't forget to order Night of Champions and witness a night where all championships are up for grabs. Will Jericho and his new partner keep the titles or will Legacy achieve success and win the titles? Will Punk stay as a champ or will Hardy find a way take back what was his? Will the reign of RKO as WWE Champion come to an find or will he overcome the odds.

Find out tonight. I'm Kendrick Davis and that's all for the Countdown to Night of Champions. Thank you for joining me.

Top 10 Rookies from the Second-Seventh Round Who Will Make an Impact in 2009 Part One: Offense

Kendrick Davis — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:11:42 -0400

There have been careers made and broken in the NFL. Some that achieved success in their careers by winning a championship or becoming a future Hall of Famer. The Draft is the event where there are names who are a buy or bust. Every year we wonder who will be the first pick of the Draft. Also we have a cheat sheet and predict who will be taken by what team in the draft. We focus on the players from first round more. Sure gus like Knowshon Moreno (Denver), Jeremy Maclin (Philadelphia), Matt Stafford (Detroit), Jason Smith (St. Louis) & etc could make an impact but what about guys in the later rounds? The players from the 2nd to 7th Round have always made an impact. Look at guys like Tom Brady who was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 6th round and took the Patriots to the Super Bowl and won 3 titles. Also Devin Hester, Zach Thomas, Jason Taylor, Brandon Marshall, Anquan Boldin, I can go on about who found success despite not being drafted in the first round. Join me as we look at who are top 10 of rookies from the Second to Seventh Round who will make an impact this coming season. Cause you know every there's somebody that will jump at you. First it's all about the offense in this 2-part article. Before I go to my top ten list here are the players who didn't make the cut but will also make an impact on their team. BONUS PLAYERS TO LOOK AT Kraig Urbik G Pittsburgh 3rd Round Draft Pick Troy Kropog T Tennessee 4th Round Draft Pick Gartrell Johnson RB San Diego 4th Round Draft Pick Corneilus Ingram TE Philadelphia 5th Round Draft Pick Jamon Meredith T Green Bay 5th Round Draft Pick Quinn Johnson FB Green Bay 5th Round Draft Pick OUTSIDE THE TOP 10: 20.Rashad Jennings RB Jacksonville 7th Round Draft Pick 19.Sammie Stroughter WR Tampa Bay 7th Round Draft Pick 18.Jaguars WR's (Mike Thomas 4th Round Draft Pick, Jarrett Dillard 5th Round Draft Pick, or Tiquan Underwood 7th Round Draft Pick) 17.Shawn Nelson TE Buffalo 4th Round Draft Pick 16.Louis Vasquez G San Diego 3rd Round Draft Pick 15.Andre Brown RB NY Giants 4th Round Draft Pick 14.Austin Collie WR Indianapolis 4th Round Draft Pick 13.Mike Wallace WR Pittsburgh 3rd Round Draft Pick 12.Eben Britton T Jacksonville 2nd Round Draft Pick 11.Andy Levitre G Buffalo 2nd Round Draft Pick

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Ravens Will Work Out Receivers This Friday

Kendrick Davis — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:24:33 -0400

While Derrick Mason's retirement remains a question mark, the Ravens will not waste time on Friday by working out some receivers regardless of Mason coming back or staying retired.

Mason made his shocking retirement announcement to Jocklife.com last Monday. However, there is no word on whether or not he filed his retirement papers to the NFL.

This week he will meet coach John Harbaugh about his future with the Baltimore Ravens.

The Nashville City Paper reports the Ravens will hold a workout on Friday for free agent former Titans/Rams WR receiver Drew Bennett. Drew started his career in Tennessee in 2001 as an undrafted wide receiver.

He played for six seasons, then he became a free agent. Bennett signed a six-year, $30 million deal with $10 million guaranteed with the St. Louis Rams, where spent his two years before suffering a season-ending foot injury in Week One of last season against Philadelphia.

Bennett was released by St. Louis on Feb. 25, 2009.

Jason La Confora of NFL.com reported that former Seahawks/Panthers WR D.J. Hackett will also try out for the Ravens on Friday. Hackett played four seasons with the Seahawks before becoming a free agent. The Panthers signed him to a two-year, $3.5 million contract, but he was released on the same day as Bennett.

Hopefully, Derrick Mason changes his mind and comes back to Baltimore. We are in dire need of receivers, whether we get Mason back or sign a free agent receiver.

I have faith, and so does Raven Nation, that Mr. 85 will return.

How To Fix the Dilemma That Is the Unified Tag Team Championship

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 02:58:05 -0400

What's up, wrestling goons?

As we know, the Tag Team Division in the WWE has been in the dumps for awhile since tag teams like Team 3D left, Hardy Boyz split, so did Edge & Christian.

Hell, even the duo of ego-maniacs, John Morrison & The Miz, were split. The Bash was supposed to be the beginning of excitement for the division when Edge & Chris Jericho won the Unified Tag Team Championship.

However, unfortunate events have dealt blows to the Tag Team Division. Last week, Edge tore his Achilles last week at a house show in San Diego in a match against Jeff Hardy that didn't last long. He will be out for at least six months.

There is no decision yet made for the Unified Tag Team Championship Match at Night of Champions, which will likely be determined this coming week.

Then on RAW which was taped before Edge's injury. Carlito attacked Primo at the end of the match when they lost to Edge & Jericho.

Not only I but other wrestling and tag team fans around the world are pissed about what happened. Thanks, WWE Creative Team.

There are rumors going around about a replacement for Edge, which I disagree. Replacements possibly include up-and-comer Dolph Ziggler, The Miz, or Edge's brother Christian. Why give somebody the title that they didn't earn to begin with?

Giving somebody one half of the titles is like giving a football team the Super Bowl but not playing 16 games including the playoffs. These (Edge & Y2J) guys have accomplished a lot in their careers and to let that happen would be a disservice.

Whether Edge & Jericho were scheduled to take part in the Unified Tag Team Championship Match at The Bash, they earned it, period. Due to Edge being out of action, the Unified Tag Team Titles should be vacant until July 26.

In my years as a fan of wrestling, have I never seen such tardiness towards the way the WWE Tag Team Division has been handled.

The division has brought tag teams that we'll never forget, from Demolition, Strike Force, Legion of Doom, Hart Foundation, Team 3D (formerly The Dudley Boyz), Hardy Boyz & Edge & Christian to now Rhodes & DiBiase, The Colons, Cryme Tyme & The Hart Dynasty.

Unified Tag Team Championships may not be bigger than WWE & World Heavyweight Championship. However, tag teams have put their bodies, careers and everything on the line to be the best ever in the history of not only the WWE, but Tag Teams period.

Yet, we have seen a tag team that can be dominant but most importantly stick together due to bad creativity.

How to handle this problem? Sure, Legacy members Rhodes & DiBiase would be given the belts but that would be too easy. They would have to earn their right to be champions.

If I had my way, I would solve the dilemma that is the Unified Tag Team Championship picture and it would be done the right way. I don't need a creative team to brainstorm who should get involved. All I have to do is work my magic and make things happen where the fans get a chance to enjoy tag team action at it's best.

Should there be a Tag Team Tournament for next week with four teams involved? A match on RAW and a match on SmackDown? The winners of those matches would meet at the Night of Champions? However, I would not do that. I would have a four way tag team match for the vacant Unified Tag Team Championships.

Here are the teams that should take place in the match at Night of Champions.

Contenders:

Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

Of course, I've been rooting for this tag team to be Unified Tag Team Champs but were robbed due to an shakeup made by Theodore Long to allow Edge & Y2J to win the titles. These guys are students of wrestling especially coming from the backgrounds of their legendary fathers the "American Dream" Dusty Rhodes & the "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase.

These are no New Kids On The Block when it comes to championships. This duo has won the World Tag Team Championship belts twice. These guys are a well-oiled tag team duo and have what it takes to be Unified Tag Team Champions.

Cryme Tyme

With the success of being fan favorites and having their own show "Word Up". To me, it's not enough for the Brooklyn duo. This team has yet to taste tag team gold.

Shad & JTG have been in the WWE for two and a half years and still have not been respected in the tag team category, given the attention has been on other tag teams, such as the third generation tag teams.

Don't get me wrong; the other tag teams deserve to get in the mix, but Cryme Tyme has been overlooked for quite some time. What would help this team would be to become Unified Tag Team Champions.

Shad presents raw power and agression while JTG executes with speed and agility. This duo has come a long way to get to the WWE and should be in the mix.

The Hart Dynasty

This could possibly be the future of tag teams in general. Ever since Davey Hart Smith, son of the late British Bulldog, debuted on ECW, this duo of Smith & Tyson Kidd have made it known that they belong in the Tag Team Division.

Tyson Kidd is a wrestler to look at especially with his high-risk moves and quickness. Davey Hart Smith's presence is big enough to play on a football team but his power & strength is what makes this duo strong.

The move to SmackDown gives this team a chance to compete for the Tag Team titles. With Natalya, daughter of the Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart, managing these two, these students of the Hart Dungeon look to make an impact in the Tag Team division.

William Regal & Vladimir Kozlov

This not a real tag team but it would be a interesting faction. Regal, a tough but smug Southpaw from England has experience winning the World Tag Team Championship four times with three wrestlers (2-Lance Storm, 1-Eugene,1-Tajiri).

His work could pay dividends if these two come together. Vladimir Kozlov, which is not the type have as a tag team partner with his cyborg like stature. However, this guy is proficient in Sambo and kickboxing.

His skills would make this team dangerous for the opposition in the tag team division. I called this team "WWE's Odd Couple" but they could fit in if given a chance.

Last a tag team in dire straits

The Colons

After what happened on RAW, there could be no chance in hell that Carlito and Primo back together as a tag team but there are disagreements. This team made an impact becoming the WWE Tag Team Champions in September.

Then the big accomplishment came at WrestleMania 25 when they defeated Morrison & Miz to claim the World Tag Team Championship and make the titles unified. These guys if they can settle differences deserve to be in the tag team hunt if Regal & Kozlov are not involved.

I'm not the boss or someone that cash the checks but something has to give with the Unified Tag Team Championship being handled the right way. Not only the tag team titles are a concern, but the division itself is a main priority.

Edge's Surgery Is Complete

Kendrick Davis — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:29:34 -0400

As we know Edge tore his Achilles tendon in a house show on Friday in San Diego againist Jeff Hardy.

After the match started, Hardy went after Edge in his corner. Soon as he was attempting to leapfrog Hardy, he fell to the canvas and tore his achilles. The WWE referees had to move Hardy away while doctors and EMTs attended to Edge. Smackdown Ring Announcer Justin Roberts had to call off match because of the injury, which gave Hardy the victory by forfeit. Edge took the mic and apologized to the fans.

Today, Joey Styles from WWE.com reported that Edge was getting surgery this morning in Birmingham, AL.

The doctor who performed the surgery was Dr. James Andrews, who was known for operating WWE superstars such as Triple H, Rey Mysterio, Batista, and John Cena. His other track record was consulting Patriots QB Tom Brady and has recently worked on QB Brett Favre for his attempt to come back for the 2009-10 season. He's well respected in the ranks of Sports Medicine.

The surgery took place today at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center at St. Vincent's Hospital and it was a success.

Photos from today's surgery.

The timetable for Edge's return is unknown, but he will be out until next year.

His injury puts the match at Night of Champions for the Unified Tag Team Championship between him, Y2J and Rhodes, and DiBiase in disarray. There is no decision on what will happen to the Unified Tag Team titles but we'll learn more next week when the WWE stars return from overseas.

My prediction on this situation is Edge will come back but as a face and feud with Y2J.

As for the tag team titles, it will be relinquished and there will be four tag teams who will compete for the vacant Unified Tag Team Championships. Those teams would be Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase, Cryme Tyme, Hart Dynasty, William Regal, and Vladimir Kozlov. Regal and Kozlov are not a tag team, but with these guys together they could hold an alliance within.

BREAKING NEWS: Ron Artest Agrees To a Three-Year Deal With the Lakers

Kendrick Davis — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:10:35 -0400

On the same day that the Lakers lose Trevor Ariza to Houston, well let's say they returned the favor. On SportsCenter, Ron Artest says he reached a verbal agreement for a three-year deal with the Lakers. Artest played one year for the Rockets and now joins Kobe Bryant who he was talking trash during a game and almost got into it in the playoffs. Before the deal was made official, the Cavaliers also expressed interest in Artest.

This year's acquistions are heating up and it will continue.

Spoilers For Night Of Champions: The Revisited

Kendrick Davis — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:51:48 -0400

This is the revised version of the Spoilers For Night of Champions. Here is some news on the matches that will take place at the Night of Champions which will take place LIVE at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia, PA on Sunday July 26th. Here are the spoilers from the tapings for next week's episodes of RAW, ECW, & Smackdown because they're going overseas next week. If you don't want to see the spoilers then wait until RAW, ECW & SmackDown. Otherwise, if you can't wait, here is the card.

OFFICIAL

WWE Divas Championship

Maryse (C) vs Mickie James

World Heavyweight Championship

CM Punk (C) vs Jeff Hardy

The Punk/Hardy match was made on this week's episode of SmackDown

SPOILERS

Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship

Randy Orton (C) vs John Cena vs Triple H

Unified Tag Team Championship

Edge & Chris Jericho (C) vs Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

ECW Championship

Tommy Dreamer (C) vs Christian

WWE Intercontinental Championship

Rey Mysterio (C) vs Dolph Ziggler

Sources: ProWrestling.com

The Day After "The Bash"

Kendrick Davis — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:59:41 -0400

The WWE Creative Team dropped the ball with "The Bash." Okay, I know everybody is feeling the same way I do about last night's pay-per-view event. The WWE has been lacking for a while, but this was horrible point blank.

I’m watching this and I'm thinking, I’ll give it a 'C', but I give it a 'D' because one match carried the whole event. I felt like the other matches lacked potential.

Here's a breakdown of each match along with my thoughts and honest opinions.

Let's start with the ECW Championship Scramble Match.

ECW Championship Scramble Match—Tommy Dreamer defeats Christian, Finlay, Jack Swagger, and Mark Henry to keep his ECW Championship

I don't know why the scramble match came into play. I tried to give it a chance, but it’s really confusing. You pin your opponent, get one-two-three, and you're champion.

However, the clock is running and you still have to fight when the time expires, then you're champion if you avoid the three-count. First winner, Mark Henry scooped up Tommy Dreamer slammed him hard on the canvas to become champion but still had to fight.

Then Jack Swagger and his lame pinning of Henry to become ECW Champion. He did it by taking Henry down by the knee then hits a splash on the "World's Strongest Man" to get the pin. Lame, right?

As two minutes went by, it looked like Christian was gonna win by hitting the Killswitch on “The All-American American" who was still ECW Champion.

However, to the chagrin of Tommy Dreamer he stopped Christian. Then the extreme veteran hit the DDT on Captain Charisma and pinned him to become ECW champion. However, the match was still going on with the time running.

They go all out in this match, Finlay goes for the pin but didn't get it. Swagger pins Finlay but didn't get it. Finlay nails Dreamer for the pin, but only a two count. Forty-five seconds left and Dreamer still champion, everybody was going for pins. Finlay DDT's Swagger but only gets a count of two.

Henry tries to pin Swagger but was stopped by Dreamer. Dreamer gets a two count on Henry. Ten seconds and everybody was going for the win but the clock expires and Tommy Dreamer is still the ECW Champion.

STAR RATING THREE: It was okay. The effort was there but it wasn't the best match. Why did I pick Finaly to win this match? I guess sometimes you wanna see someone new to the threshold of being champion. Then again, with the Irishman it wouldn't have been a big push.

NEXT OPPONENT: Tommy Dreamer survived but come Night of Champions, we will not keep the title. I think it will be a one-on-one against Christian, Jack Swagger or Mark Henry. Also it could be a fatal four way if they don't make up their minds on a No. 1 contender.

WWE Intercontinental Championship vs Mask Match—Rey Mysterio defeats Chris Jericho to become new Intercontinental Champion and keep the mask on his face.

This was the match of the night but it was the match that owned the whole PPV. My question before I give props on this match and to both competitors. Why the hell was this match second instead of being the fifth or even sixth? This match lived up to this billing. It was back and forth between these two.

These two gave it their all in this match. Mysterio was going for a moonsault until Jericho blocks the move and put him in the Walls of Jericho. Mysterio is thriving in pain, but he wasn't gonna give up, the hold was broken. Soon as Mysterio was going for the attack, Jericho rips the mask off of WWE's littlest big man.

However, different from the last PPV at Extreme Rules. Rey had another mask and Jericho was shocked by the trickery of 619. Then he hits Jericho with a 619 and goes in for the pin. Bell rings, Rey Mysterio is the new Intercontinental Champion.

STAR RATING: Five stars. This match carried the PPV and was worth it. The storyline was there, the intensity, the action also good gameplanning. What’s interesting Mysterio is from California but most of the fans wanted Y2J to win.

That crowd was as confusing like the Canadian fans. Big kudos to these two who put on magnificent performance in the ring.

NEXT OPPONENT: Rey Mysterio's possible opponent could be the Shaman of Sexy John Morrison. Another superstar would be the Gold Standard himself, Shelton Benjamin. Last the possible opponent that could be in line would be former Spirit Squad member Nicky who now goes by Dolph Ziggler.

No Count-Out, No Disqualification Match—Dolph Ziggler defeats The Great Khali

This was a piss poor match from beginning to end. Whoever came up with the idea of adding this to The Bash might as well serve coffee & donuts. Another thing that got under my skin was why was there a video package and there was no storyline to the feud.

Just the fact Ziggler was the up and coming superstar who owned the Punjabi Playboy with using Ranjin Singh as bait to get the win via count-out. Then next match, used the steel chair as a ploy to made it seem like Khali had the chair and Ziggler was out cold .

The match sucked but it had some moments...sort of. Ziggler would kick Khali numerous times and played chicken. He would get some licks in until Khali tosses him like a ragdoll in the corner. Then Khali hits Ziggler with a huge chop. Khali dumps Ziggler to the floor and goes outside the ring to get him.

Dolph’s back was near the ringpost and Khali hits a chop to Ziggler. Then he goes for another chop but hits the ringpost, as Ziggler hits Khali with the dropkick. As soon as Ziggler was going for another one, Khali chops Ziggler back into the ring.

As the match went on, the fire explodes and it's Kane. Both Ziggler and Khali are in shock when Kane shows up. It was the first time Kane appeared, who's hasn't been on TV since Backlash when he defeated CM Punk in a singles match.

The Big Red Machine comes down to the ring and Ziggler leaps out of the ring. Then Kane takes the steel chair and goes in on a vulnerable giant known as Khali. Khali gives shot after shot to Khali as he goes down.

Soon as Kane left, Ziggler slides back in the ring to get the one-two-three for the win. The question was why did Kane go after The Great Khali?

STAR RATING: 1. I was going to give it a 0.5 but Kane's return was the highlight of the match. This match was a waste of time to beginning with. The feud had no depth, storyline or anything in that magnitude.

WWE get better with setting feuds that do matter. I would rather see Edge and Morrison or the dark match between R-Truth and Shelton Benjamin then to see this travesty.

NEXT OPPONENT: The Great Khali goes into a feud with Kane which will lead to SummerSlam because the next PPV will be about championships. As for Ziggler, he could get a push for the Intercontinental Championship if Shelton or Morrison don't get the match first.

Triple Threat Tag Match for the Unified Tag Team Championship—Edge and Chris Jericho def The Colons and Legacy to become Unified Tag Team Champions.

For those of you who missed th PPV, I know what you're gonna ask. How did Edge and Chris Jericho get in the mix for Unified Tag Team Championship. Okay this all started with Edge ranting to Smackdown GM Theodore Long about not getting on the card but it got worse.

Also Chris Jericho was upset about losing the Intercontinental Championship to Rey Mysterio because of the mask situation. This is where things about to come into play.

Vince McMahon has been on a warpath since buying back RAW from billionaire businessman Donald Trump. Bad enough for Long, he was the next victim. McMahon in his own opinion thought Long didn't do a good job and wants Long to shake things up. He puts Long on probation which was jacked up because Long is a fair GM.

Anyway, we were about to anticipate the possible revival of the Tag Team division in the WWE between the Colons and Legacy, music hits. Long tweaks the match by making it a triple threat tag team match for the Unified Tag Team Championship.

Now, you’re asking why is Long adding a third team and three RAW superstars? The reason why is the second half of unified titles are part of SmackDown. So no matter if it's RAW or SmackDown, even ECW, there has to be a title defense for the unified titles.

Music hits it was the Rated-R Superstar Edge coming out but who was his partner? Former Intercontinental Champion Chris Jericho comes out and both tag teams were upset. This match was all about Legacy and The Colons duking it out.

The only time Edge and Jericho got involved was if one of the wrestlers from the other team were near for them to make the tag. Yes, these two are one of the top three heels in the WWE but it was a waste. Why put these guys in if they’re gonna be in the match like that.

When Carlito was about pin Ted DiBiase, the ref said the Legacy member wasn't legal for the pin. See Edge tagged DiBiase without knowing before Carlito hit the Backstabber. After Carlito argued with the ref, Edge hits the spear and one-two-three new Unified Tag Team Champions Edge and Chris Jericho.

STAR RATING: 2. I felt like the creative team tried too hard to add suspense to the match. Adding Edge and Y2J didn't do anything to save the match. I think these guys will work well as a team until it implodes.

However, this a letdown because Legacy should be have been the Unified Tag Team Champions. They deserved it and they’re a real tag team like The Colons.

NEXT OPPONENT: Edge and Chris Jericho will face The Colons at the Night of Champions who look to get their titles back. As for Legacy's Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase. *Sigh*, they will continue to be pimped as Randy Orton's cronies to do his evil work.

WWE Women’s Championship—Michelle McCool defeats Melina to become new WWE Women’s Champion.

Well, there was effort but it wasn’t good enough to make the match interesting. The match starts with both divas going at it for the title. McCool tries to capitalize on a move but Melina catches her with a DDT. Melina was in control by getting some shots on McCool. However the tide was turning.

It went McCool’s way, her associate Alicia Fox placed her mentor’s foot on the rope and the ref broke the count. Melina looks at Fox and gives a boot to her but McCool takes advantage and hits the champion with the Faith Breaker. One-two-three, new Women’s Champion Michelle McCool.

I called this match from the begin and history was made. Michelle McCool becomes the first woman to win the Divas and Women’s Championship in WWE history.

STAR RATING: 2. The match didn’t last long and I don’t know what to say. It’s nothing really to say about the match.

World Heavyweight Championship—Jeff Hardy defeats CM Punk via disqualification with Punk still the champion

Okay what do I say about this? Well it was a hard fought match but it wasn’t what I expected. CM Punk was getting major heat while Jeff Hardy received more love than the Sacramento Kings. There was some action and both guys took the punishment of each other’s attacks.

There was a time where Punk was about to hit the GTS but Hardy held onto the ropes. Hardy got in control with leaping off the apron to hit Punk with a clothesline. Punk went in on Hardy with some devastating kicks but Jeff comes out of nowhere with the Twist of Fate.

Jeff was gonna hit the Swanton until Punk rolls out the way. Punk was going for the GTS but Hardy rolls him up for a two count.

With Punk’s chances of retaining the title in jeopardy, he nails Hardy with a roundhouse kick. Punk goes for another GTS but Hardy again hits him with another Twist of Fate. Hardy goes to the top rope and this time he connects with the Swanton. Hardy goes for the cover and he wins, right? Wrong.

Punk’s leg was under the ropes when he was pinned. Hardy is in disbelief and the fans were upset. Jeff gets his head back in the match and goes for his third Twist of Fate but Punk counters and goes the GTS. As Hardy slides out of Punk’s finishing move, Punk gets poked in the eye. Punk is in the corner reeling holding his eye.

Soon he kicks the referee by mistake or was it a mistake? Jeff and the referee, even the WWE Universe, were in total shock with what took place. The ref ask the timekeeper to call the match and Hardy wins by disqualification. The Sacramento faithful were livid with what took place.

After the match, Jeff Hardy was irate and went to confront Punk before Straightedge goes to the back. CM Punk keeps talking about his eye but the Charismatic Enigma disagreed. Hardy said that he kicked the referee on purpose.

Hardy attacks Punk and brings him back to the ring. All hell broke lose when Hardy went in on Punk. The referee couldn’t stop the attack, so he called the other referees to break the melee.

One of the referees takes him to the back because he talks about his eye. I could be wrong but did Punk smirk when he supposedly kicked the ref by mistake to keep the title? The heel turn is official, Punk took the easy way out of the match. There will be a rematch at Night of Champions but it’s now face vs heel.

STAR RATING: 3. The match I would say was probably the longest on the card. Both of these guys were clever in their own ways with their finishing moves. Punk kicked the referee and that took a lot away from the match. I don’t believe that eye injury was serious due to Punk’s actions as of late.

NEXT OPPONENT: Part two will take place at the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia. Hopefully the next match won’t have a sour ending when Night of Champions come.

John Cena defeats The Miz.

Before I get to the match, I was laughing but I’m like it’s a disgrace. To hype The Miz as this guy claiming that will take the brass ring by beating John Cena was ridiculous. My concern about this match was for him to be hyped for a big fall.

Yes it all came to light. Cena dominated The Miz and throughout the match, it wasn’t even a fight. This match didn’t last for about eight or nine minutes. Miz had his chances but in old fashion John Cena came back with a vengeance. Cena hits Miz with the backdrop then he looks at the crowd.

Then he takes his hand and waves with the fans chanting “You Can’t See Me.” As Cena finished his taunt, he hits the Five Knuckle Shuffle on the brash loudmouth. Then goes for the Attitude Adjuster. After Cena, his the adjuster he goes in on Miz with the STF and makes him tap.

STAR RATING: 1.5. This match was horrible. To make a mid-carder get in a match with a guy who’s been the WWE and World Heavyweight Champion is a joke. Yes the “Chick Magnet” has mic skills but he’s not ready to mix it up with the guys who are proven. This feud was boring.

NEXT OPPONENT: John Cena moves on to contention for the WWE Championship. The Miz falls back to reality as a mid-carder.

MAIN EVENT: Three Stages of Hell Match for the WWE Championship: Randy Orton defeats Triple H (2 to 1) to retain the WWE Championship

Stage One: Singles Match. Orton gives the first blow and all hell breaks loose with these two rivals going at it. Triple H beats down Orton in the corner. As soon as The Game was in control, the leader of Legacy gives a thunderous boot to Triple H.

Then he focus on the leg that HHH sustained in the Last Standing Match by the venomous viper. Triple H got back on his offense til again Orton nails him in the leg. He stomps away on the injured leg and his weight on it.

The Game is thriving in pain. Orton was going for the RKO but HHH blocks it and counters with a big spinebuster to Orton. Orton hits Triple H with his infamous backbreaker. The Game is laid out outside of the ring and the ref starts counting.

Triple H gets back on his feet and onto the apron but Orton sends him back to the floor with a brutal kick. Orton tries to get Triple H back in the ring until The Game blast the WWE Champ is with a steel chair.

The ref gives the first fall to Orton 1-0 via disqualification. Triple H paid it no mind and went in on Orton with the chair. Orton is screaming in agony as The Game hits him with chair shots to his whole anatomy.

Stage Two: Fall Counts Anywhere. This stage didn’t last for long as Orton is still healing his wounds from the chair shots. The Game takes advantage and hits a pedigree on the fallen champion outside the ring and covers Orton for the one-two-three.

The match is even at one. The referee calls for the stretcher and here it comes. WWE officials bring the stretcher down the ring and now for the final stage of hell.

Stage Three: Stretcher Match. Orton is still laid out as The Game looks to put the champion on the stretcher. As he puts Orton on the stretcher, Triple H is sending his opponent up the ramp to get to the yellow line until Orton gets up and kicks the stretcher to The Game’s body.

They go back down the ramp and Orton once again focuses on the bandaged leg of The Game. Both men are exhausting, battered and beaten but both are not giving up. Orton delivers a kick to Triple H, which sends his body towards the fan barrier.

They take the fight through the crowd. Both wrestlers trade punches until Triple H clotheslined Orton over the fan barrier and back outside of the ring. Orton lands hard on the floor and take Triple H to the floor as well.

They fight near where the stretcher is waiting for battle-prone body to carried up the ramp. Orton sends his adversary to the steel steps and ringpost. Triple H goes back in the ring but is still reeling from the steel steps.

Orton grabs the steel steps and takes in the ring. As soon as Orton tries to take The Game out with the hellacious steel steps, The Game counters it by clipping Orton’s legs and his face land on the back of the steel steps. Triple H gets the steps and goes hard on Orton’s head.

Triple H brings the unconscious champion with him and lays him on the stretcher. He starts rolling the stretcher and almost to tasting the WWE Championship by almost crossing the finish line until. Orton kicks HHH in the head and both are down on the ramp.

As Orton gets himself back up, he puts The Game on the stretcher and DDT’s him off the ramp. Both men are laid out, physically beaten, but mentally craving the gold. Orton gets up and see The Game getting back up and he zeroes on his target.

He goes for the punt but his foot hits the stretcher as The Game moved out of the way. Triple H goes for the pedigree but Orton backdrops him onto the stretcher. Orton’s in control starts pushing The Game up the ramp but luckily he slides off and Orton attacks The Game even more.

Orton is staring at his opponent up close. Pounding his fists on the ramp as he awaits for The Game to gain conscious. Orton seething like a snake, goes for the RKO but HHH pushes him face first into the stage set.

Triple H hits the Pedigree on the top of the stage, standing on the finish, HHH puts Orton on the stretcher and he’s close to the line. The Game is three feet away from wheeling his opponent past the line and becoming the new WWE Champion.

It came to a halt when Cody Rhodes comes in hot pursuit to prevent The Game from passing the line by holding onto the stretcher real tight.

The Game throws Orton’s henchman to the stage set. Triple H once again looks to bring his opponent past the finish line when all of a sudden. When Ted DiBiase who had an falling out with Orton, runs out and beats The Game down and Cody is not too far to join in on the attack.

Orton is still laying on stretcher, trying to revive himself, while Legacy is still beating down Triple H. The third generation tag team put Triple H on the stretcher and went to Randy to check on him.

Little did they know that, Triple H opens a piece of the steel and grabs his signature sledgehammer and takes out both members of Legacy. As Triple H looks down at the two henchmen, the crowd is in awe when Orton sneaks towards Triple H. When Triple H turns around with hammer in hand to go after the Viper but is met Orton kicking him.

Then he gets the exposed steel from the stage and takes out The Game. Without hesitation, Orton puts HHH on the stretcher and wheels him past the finish line. Randy Orton wins 2-1 over Triple H to keep his WWE Championship.

After the match, Randy Orton clutches his title while catching his breath from the physical onslaught. As he poses, Triple H gets up slowly with the sledgehammer and stands behind Orton. The crowd is cheering and Orton turns around. He meets the sledgehammer to the mouth by The Game and is out cold.

Triple H poses for the crowd as Randy is still knocked out from the sledgehammer and he limps to the back in pain. After Michael Cole & Jerry “The King” Lawler take a look at the replay, the WWE Champion is helped off the ground by the zebras and that’s it for The Bash.

STAR RATING: 3: Only match that was good was the Stretcher Match. It was physical struggle but both men fought it out. Of course, Legacy cronies get involved and help Randy Orton to remain as WWE Champion.

NEXT OPPONENT: This rivalry between the two is not other with but an element will be added to the championship. That element is Mr HLR (Hustle, Loyalty & Respect) John cena.

Like what I said before, this PPV didn’t live up to the anticipation except for Mysterio/Jericho. Hopefully, when we head to Brotherly Love for Night of Champions which will be live in Philadelphia, PA, the matches will be better.

The only way to watch is on pay per view Sunday, July 26 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.

I give "The Bash" a 'D'.

MY PREDICTIONS FOR NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS

WWE Divas Championship

WWE United States Championship

ECW Championship

WWE Intercontinental Championship

WWE Women’s Championship

Unified Tag Team Championship

World Heavyweight Championship

WWE Championship – Triple Threat Match

Thanks for reading The Day After The Bash and look forward to another preview/review of next Pay-Per-View "Night of Champions." See you next time.

Countdown to the Bash: The Preview, Pt. 2

Kendrick Davis — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:26:03 -0400

To those who read Part One, I wanna say thanks for the comments. Now we go into Part Two of Countdown To The Bash: The Preview.

The Bash will be live tonight on Pay Per View. This event will take place at the ARCO Arena in Sacramento, Calif. Call your local cable provider, DIRECTV, or Dish Network. Also you can order the webcast on WWE.com. I wonder if I'll get paid for sponsoring...

Same thing as Part One, I will go over my analysis of each match, rate each match from one star to five stars and give my reason behind the rating. The final ingredient is will give my prediction and why I chose the winner of each match.

Shout-outs, again, to Aranda with the song "WhyYouWannaBringMeDown" the official theme song for The Bash.

Let's go break down the second half of matches for The Bash:

John Cena vs. The Miz

Since coming to RAW, The Miz has been on a mission to go after one of WWE's top superstars John Cena.

For weeks, The Miz has been a harsh critic of Cena's career in music, his recent film "12 Rounds." Miz claims a 7-0 record against the controversial superstar.

He knew Cena was not in condition to answer the challenge after being thrown into the spotlight by the Big Show.

Cena would get this chance to battle The Miz on RAW. However it didn't take place when Big Show attacked Cena.

With Show having Cena in a Cobra Clutch, Miz would nail Show with a steel chair. Then he turned his attention to a laid out Cena and then went in with the steel chair.

For Cena, it's all about putting the egomaniacal loud-mouth in his place and did it by challenging him to a match at The Bash.

After John Cena made it loud and clear about about his feeling towards The Miz, Miz slapped Cena and left the ring immediately before the Mr. HLR—Hustle, Loyalty and Respect—would fight back.

The verbal assaults, cheap shots, and comments stop when this feud goes in the ring at the ARCO Arena.

Will John Cena silence his loud-mouthed opponent or will The Miz make a name for himself by pulling an upset over WWE's controversial superstar? The only way to find is to watch The Bash live on Pay Per View.

RATING:Three. I'll be honest about this match, I want to see this contest, but it's not gonna be the show stealer.

PREDICTION: John Cena, no question about it. The Miz will probably give Cena a fight, and trust me, Miz is no cakewalk. However, what makes Cena one of the best is when he's down he doesn't go down without a fight and that's why I choose Cena.

Intercontinental Championship vs. The Mask Match: Chris Jericho (C) vs Rey Mysterio

The stakes don't get any any higher with these two squaring off in the ring at the Bash. Jericho is not the only one putting his title on the line but Rey made the ultimate sacrifice by putting the mask on the line after challenging Jericho for the Intercontinental title.

The mask that Mysterio wears is sacred to not only him but the legends before him in Lucha Libre.

These two have had a history in both WCW and WWE, and this is probably the best match ever in the history of the Intercontinental Championship with the stipulations on the line.

In a interview with Jim Ross and Todd Grisham on an episode from SmackDown, Mysterio made it known that he wants to go down as one of the greatest that ever wore the Intercontinental Championship of all time.

The rivalry began when these two were drafted to SmackDown on RAW's WWE Draft. The first match took place at Judgment Day and Mysterio was successful.

That all came to an end at Extreme Rules when Jericho ripped the mask off of Mysterio and pinned him for the win to become the nine-time Intercontinental Champion. Was it enough for Jericho?

It wasn't, Jericho has made it loud and clear that he will expose Mysterio to the WWE Universe at The Bash. He feels that Mysterio is hiding behind the mask and claims that his masked adversary is a coward by wearing it.

To Rey, it's not only about wearing the mask. It's the respect and love he has for the tradition of the Luchadors before him and it's very iconic.

Also, it's filled with pride and glory. Jericho won't stop his campaign until he beats Mysterio and reveal him forever to the public.

Will Jericho finally expose Mysterio to the world and be successful in his quest, or will the master of the 619 keeps his heritage and dethrone Jericho of the Intercontinental Championship? Sacramento is the place to watch the Intercontinental Title vs. Mask match.

STAR RATING: Four. This match has everything that I like and dislike. That's what fun about it, with everything on the line and the determination of winning what's valuable.

PREDICTION: Rey Mysterio, I for one like Lucha Libre wrestling and the mask is Mysterio. Plus we've seen his face in a match against the same guy but with long hair.

World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (C) vs. Jeff Hardy

Jeff Hardy's moment finally came when he beat Edge in one of the historic matches in Ladder Match history at Extreme Rules.

His reign didn't last, when all of a sudden, the music hits. It was the Straightedge superstar CM Punk coming down the ramp with the Money In The Bank briefcase and was cashing in on the World Heavyweight Championship.

With Hardy motionless, CM Punk hit the Go To Sleep on the former champion, but he kicked out. Then another Go To Sleep and it was all over with and CM Punk was crowned the World Heavyweight Champion.

CM Punk felt that the opportunity was there and he had to take advantage of it but people were not agreeing with what he did. Even the WWE Universe made their feelings known and the biggest critic of all was Jeff Hardy.

Hardy would get another shot at the WHC on RAW's three hour special Three for All, but this time it would be in a Triple Threat for the title. Hardy looked as if he had a chance to win the title against Edge but Punk once again prevented Hardy from becoming champion.

He did it by grabbing Hardy and hurling him to the outside to covered The Rated-R Superstar. After the match SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long made the made match with CM Punk defending the title against Jeff Hardy.

With the World Heavyweight Championship up for grabs, both Hardy and Punk will put themselves at risk in this high paced, tension-filled, breathtaking action. These two are champing at the bit to take out their frustration on each other.

Will the tenacious CM Punk keep retain his title or will the Charismatic Enigma take back what's rightfully his, the World Heavyweight Championship? Find out as these unorthodox superstars go at it in Sac-Town.

STAR RATING: Four. This is one of the matches I'm really excited to see because of their styles of wrestling. One has Muay-Thai addictive moves and the other is a high-flying, risk-taking superstar who will do anything to win in the WWE.

PREDICTION: CM Punk, it's could go either way. One, he'll still be a face and win then Edge comes in the World Title chase or he turns heel and continue his feud with Jeff Hardy. I like the Charismatic Enigma, but Punk is gonna keep his title for the time being.

Drum roll, please...Here it is, the main event.

Three Stages of Hell for the WWE Championship: Randy Orton (C) vs Triple H

What keeps Randy Orton's blood going are championships and power. That's what has taken place since the Viper has been WWE Champion. However he's not alone, Triple H has been known for wearing gold since his days in the Attitude Era.

Before The Bash, ex-RAW owner, billionaire businessman Donald Trump, made a match for the commercial-free episode of RAW, and it was a Last Man Standing Match between the rivals for the WWE Championship, and it was well worth it.

These two went at it by annihilating each other outside of the ring, ladders and chairs were involved and took it to the stage. At that time both beat each other merciless till both were unable to get to get up and went to a draw.

The nightmare was set to begin for Orton. After buying RAW back from the billionaire, Mr. McMahon went on a power trip by announcing the the Three Stages of Hell Match. It's a two out of three falls match.

This match hasn't been made since 2002, in which The Game faced off against "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels at Armageddon. The first match will be a traditional wrestling match; the second stage will be a Falls Count Anywhere Match; and if it even goes to the third and final stage, they will do battle in a Stretcher Match.

This isn't first rodeo between these two. It all started with Randy Orton going after Triple H's second family, The McMahons. First, Orton slapped then kicked Vince McMahon in the head.

Then Shane McMahon was the next target, where he was kicked in the skull as well. When Triple H's wife and mother of his children, Stephanie McMahon, confronted Orton on his actions, she fell victim to devastating RKO.

Orton's Reign of Terror came at Backlash when he put Triple H on the shelf with a devastating kick causing The Game to miss action. Shane McMahon would be a victim again after a three-on-one handicap match but this time Shane-O-Mac would be not be seen on TV after Orton shattered his ankle with a chair and steel step.

Not only was Orton responsible, but his Legacy henchmen Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase would follow his path of destruction.

The night after losing the WWE title to Batista at Extreme Rules, Orton and Legacy had a plan to take out the Animal and it was successful. Orton would severely damage Batista's arm which was torn prior to the Steel Cage Match. This devastating attack would send the Animal to the hospital.

Former RAW General Manager Vickie Guerrero said the match would go on and if Batista didn't return to the arena, Orton would be crowned the WWE Champion. The ambulance came but Orton didn't know what was in store for him and Legacy.

The screen showed Triple H staring in the camera and with him he has a sledgehammer. Randy Orton and comrades would be in shock when The Game would calmly walk to the ring.

An enranged Triple H would wreak havoc on Rhodes and DiBiase then destroying Orton with a steel chair, then he pedigreed the Viper.

The next week on RAW the vacant WWE Championship was on the line with Batista out for awhile. This time it was a Fatal Four Way Match with Orton, Triple H, John Cena and The Big Show.

It was an all-out war until the venomous Viper took advantage by hurling Cena out of the ring and covering an unconscious Big Show.

Now, it doesn't get any better for Randy Orton. He defends his title against his ex-Evolution mentor who looks to avenge what has happened to him and his family.

Will Orton avoid the wrath that is Triple H and keep the gold in the Legacy threshold or will The Game be able to take the title away from the head of Legacy.

The only way to witness the slaughterhouse that is the three stages of hell is to watch The Bash.

STAR RATING: Four. It's gonna be a war between HHH and Orton but this match will not be better than the last three stages of hell contest with HHH and HBK.

PREDICTION: It's hard to predict what's gonna happen especially with the next PPV around the corner. I pick Randy Orton. As much as I want Triple H to win, Orton has the mental edge with Triple H in revenge mode. Legacy will reign supreme at The Bash.

Thank you for spending time with me and our journey to The Bash. If you wanna witness the action, order The Bash from your local cable provider, DIRECTV and Dish Network. Also there's a webcast on WWE.com. See you at The Bash.

Countdown To WWE The Bash: The Preview Part 1

Kendrick Davis — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 17:54:01 -0400

What's good, wrestling heads? Welcome to Countdown To The Bash: The Preview Part 1. This is my preview for the upcoming pay per view "The Bash" which is LIVE on Sunday June 28 on only on PPV.

This event will take place at the ARCO Arena in Sacramento, Calif. Call your local cable provider, DIRECTV, or Dish Network. Also you can order the webcast on WWE.com.

For the next few minutes, I will go over my analysis of each match, rate each match from 1 star to 5 stars and give my reason behind the rating. The final ingredient is will give my prediction pf each match and why I chose the winner of each match.

Also thanks to Aranda with the song "WhyYouWannaBringMeDown," an official theme song for The Bash.

Thank you for stopping by and let's go breakdown the matches for The Bash:

The Great Khali vs Dolph Ziggler - No Count-Out, No Disqualification Match

Since making his arrival to SmackDown by the Supplemental Draft, Ziggler has made an enemy out of the Punjabi Playboy. Now these two square off at The Bash in a No Count-Out, No Disqualification Match. So how did this feud come about between these two.

Lately, Ziggler has had the advantage by outsmarting Khali. Several weeks ago, the cocky wrestler showed a side that was different from wanting to shake hands and introducing himself to the WWE superstars.

He got himself disqualified by attacking Khali numerous times with a steel chair. That's when the feud got personal after the merciless attack.

Then he used Khali's interpreter/manager Ranjin Singh as bait and lured Khali to the outside, throwing Singh to the giant.

That's when opportunity knocked when Ziggler beat the 10-count by leaping in for the win. The brains over brawn continued when Ziggler brought a steel chair to the ring.

However, Dolph slammed the chair on the canvas and threw the chair to Khali then pretending he was laid out. The referee caught Khali visibly with the chair and gave Ziggler the win by disqualification.

Anything goes in this match, as rules won't apply between these two adversaries. However, the question is will Dolph continue his brilliance over Khali or will the Punjabi Playboy finally get his revenge? We'll find out at The Bash.

STAR RATING: 1, This is my least favorite match and it's waste for a PPV card. So if you don't wanna watch this, go cook something, water the grass, something. This is not worth the money.

PREDICTION: The Great Khali because the match doesn't favor Ziggler after what has happened in recent events. The Giant will finally beat Ziggler and end this feud. PLEASE END THIS FEUD!!

ECW Championship Scramble Match - Tommy Dreamer (C) vs. Christian vs. Jack Swagger vs. Finlay vs. Mark Henry

Tommy Dreamer has been on cloud nine since winning the ECW Championship at Extreme Rules. With possibly his chances for the ECW title on the line for what could be his final match, Dreamer overcame the odd by beating Christian and Jack Swagger for the ECW title in a Hardcore Triple Threat Match.

Good news is his contract has been extended by winning the title; bad news is he's the hunted. ECW GM Tiffany made the ECW Championship match official for The Bash.

However it's a ECW Championship Scramble Match and the odds are not good for the longtime ECW loyalist. His opponents are the former ECW champ Christian, Jack Swagger, Finlay and Mark Henry.

The last time the Championship Scramble Match took place was at Unforgiven with three respective belts from RAW, SmackDown and ECW on the line.

What's interesting about this match is that four of the five scramble combatants have worn the ECW belt. The only one that has never worn the prestigious title is Finlay.

Finlay is the wild card because he made his return to the Land of Extreme by making a statement: laying out Christian, Jack Swagger and ECW Champ Tommy Dreamer.

What's good for Finlay is he has experienced the scramble and so did Mark Henry, who looks to take back the ECW Championship. Last time he was champion was at Unforgiven in the ECW Championship Scramble Match.

With these five going at it for the title, who will win? Will Dreamer be able to retain the ECW title? Will Captain Charisma get his chance to regain the title?

What about the "All-American American" Jack Swagger, will the brash superstar become two-time ECW Champion?

Will the "World's Strongest Man" be dominant again by overcoming the scramble and winning the title?

And last, will the man who loves to fight finally earn his first ECW Championship.

The controversy behind the ECW Championship will take at The Bash.

STAR RATING: 3, It's not a bad match, but not must see.

PREDICTION: I'm a have to go with the man who loves to fight, Finlay.The pressure is gonna be on Dreamer to keep the belt on his waist and that's what favors Finlay.

I wanna see Finlay win a world championship, he's been in the wrestling industry for awhile and it would be a crowning achievement for him to win the ECW Championship for the first time ever.

WWE Women's Championship - Melina (C) vs. Michelle McCool

This rivalry has been brewing since WWE Women's Champion Melina has stepped foot on SmackDown. Finally Melina and McCool get a chance to settle it all over the WWE Women's Championship at The Bash.

Carrying the women's gold hasn't been smooth sailing for Melina. She faces an opponent in Michelle McCool who has developed an malicious side as of late, and it has earned her a shot to compete for the Women's title. She earned it by beating former WWE Women's & TNA Knockout Champ Gail Kim with the Faithbreaker.

History, which is unheard of these days in the new generation of Divas, would happen for McCool if she wins. Not only she would win the Women's title but she be would be the first woman in WWE history to win both the Divas and Women's title in her career. What's standing her way is Melina, who is willing to go through hell to keep the title.

These two never faced each other in a one-on-one contest since Melina's arrival but it has been packed with intense action with these two in Tag Team matches.

McCool has an ally in Alicia Fox, a former ECW diva and since then Melina has been a victim of attacks. After beating Fox, Michelle attacked Melina by kneeing her face then made a promise to Melina that she will make history at The Bash.

Melina walks into this match not 100 percent after last night's tag match where she was kneed in the jaw by McCool.

The confrontation between these beautiful women will take place in the squared circle. Will Melina be in a good condition to hold on to the Women's belt or will Michelle make history at the expense of dethroning Melina? It all goes down at Sacramento with the Women's title up for grabs.

STAR RATING: 3. Finally the divas will be on the card but it won't be the best match.

PREDICTION: Michelle McCool, because of the threat that she presents. Also Melina is not gonna be 100 percent because of her jaw. My money is on McCool because of her mental toughness, attitude, and athleticism. I would like to see history made.

Unified Tag Team Championship: The Colons (C) vs Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase

The feud between the third-generation tag teams will come to a head at The Bash and it's all for the gold.

The Colons, who earned the Unified Tag Team Championships at Wrestlemania 25 by defeating the tag team of Miz and Morrison, face their toughest challenge to date.

Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase, who have done their dirty deeds by assaulting Triple H and severely injuring Batista under the maniacal leader of Legacy WWE Champion Randy Orton.

Now they get a chance to challenge Carlito and Primo for the Unified Tag Team Championship.

The Legacy cohorts earned their shot in a non-title tag team contest defeating the Colons to become the No. 1 contenders for the unified titles, but it wasn't enough.

See, Legacy was at ringside for commentary when the Colons faced off against another young generation of the Hart Dynasty on RAW.

After the match, they attacked the champions and threw them out of the ring, letting them know that their days as unified tag champs will come to an end at The Bash.

Rhodes and DiBiase are no new kids on the block when it comes to winning championships. They held won the WWE Tag Team Championships not once, but twice.

The biggest accomplishment comes in Sacramento when they have a chance to win the United Tag Team belts, and it would be the first in the era of Legacy.

Can the Colons fight Legacy off and keep the titles, or will Rhodes & DiBiase join Orton with the belts around the waist? Watch The Bash for this anticipated Unified Tag Team Championship.

STAR RATING: 4. This match is one I wanna see with two of the best tag teams in the division today. Especially with the tag team division down in the WWE.

PREDICTION: I like The Colons but Legacy will win the Unified Tag Team Championship. Rhodes and DiBiase are on a mission and I think they can get it done. They have the experience, skill and cohesion to be atop of the tag team division.

I'm not done yet, later I will come back with Part 2. I'll breakdown the match between John Cena & The Miz, Intercontinental Championship vs. Mask Match between Chris Jericho & Rey Mysterio, & World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy.

Last but not least the 3 Stages From Hell Match for the WWE Championship between The "Legend Killer" Randy Orton and "The Game" Triple H. Thanks again for stopping by and Part 2 will come at you soon.