Bleacher Report - Articles by adam smerecki

TNA Is Moving Forward

adam smerecki — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 20:35:47 -0400

TNA is finally getting it! For almost three years now, TNA fans have been screaming for a change in direction and it looks like TNA will grant their wish.

This week TNA fired two of their top creative people, Savio Vega and Dutch Mantel. Both of these gentlemen are said to be very close to Jeff Jarrett, which may have been their downfall.

With the recent developments within TNA including a report that Jeff Jarrett and Karen Angle (Kurt Angle’s ex-wife) are seeing each other, the landscape in TNA has been changing dramatically.

Jeff Jarrett decided to take himself off television indefinitely, which has prompted reports that Dixie Carter is thinking of buying Jarrett out of his share in the company. If Carter proceeds and ultimately buys out Jarrett,anyone associated with Jarrett in the past may not have much power left within the company. These people would include Vince Russo who is the most prominent figure on TNA’s creative team.

Reports also have surfaced regarding Paul Heyman possibly joining the the creative team within TNA, but nothing has come to fruition.

It seems TNA has an idea of what they need to do to move forward. Signing some major talent like Ken Kennedy will definitely give the company another huge boost.

The recent signings of Bobby Lashley, Taz, and the just confirmed Elijah Burke will work for this wrestling company.

It just depends on the creative team they assemble. As we all know if the creative direction has left something to be desired ratings will tank and so will the company.

TNA is moving forward. Let’s hope for the fans sake they stick to their guns.

TNA Wrestling: Re-Booked!

adam smerecki — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 20:42:42 -0400

TNA Victory Road is on the horizon and I have to tell ya, it's a total mess.

Most TNA fans will agree that the show has been hard to swallow. TNA still has a problem with direction and over-booking storylines.

It would be impossible to re-book the entire company's progress up to this point, but I feel the need to shake things up a bit.

Here is my vision for Victory Road:

Sting vs. Samoa Joe

This is one of the match ups that TNA did surprisingly get right. Samoa Joe with Taz in his corner is intriguing and Sting should be making his rounds with young talent before his retirement.

One advantage my vision has for this match is new ring attire for Samoa Joe. I think a singlet is in order to match the ring style of Taz.

The face paint and pajama bottoms have to go (especially now that Joe is in the Main Event Mafia). Samoa Joe goes over in this via a clean pin.

6 Man Tag Team Match (Jeff Jarrett, Rhino, Daniels vs. Booker T, Scott Steiner, Kevin Nash)

No, the "Legends Championship" is not on the line. In fact the Legends title is no longer in existence in our case here. TNA can come up with a "TV Title" but the Legends title just has to go.

This match is more a struggle for power between the MEM and the originals than anything else. The Main Event Mafia will go over in this one via interference by Mick Foley. Foley will join the MEM officially.

Beer Money Inc. vs. The Motor City Machine Guns

This match is something that should have happened a long time ago. I am not sure what TNA's issue is with the MMG but it's time, it's their time. The Motor City Machine Guns will go over in this one and become new TNA Tag Team Champions.

Homicide vs. Suicide

This is another match that TNA got right...almost.

This match has everything to do with the Impact video game. If you have played the game, then you know LAX put the Suicide character in the hospital. I am not condoning booking matches because of a video game but hey TNA is already at this point.

As we all know Suicide is Kaz under the mask. I see Homicide going over in this one to retain X-Division title but,Kaz will be revealed as the man under the mask.

If you are a Myspace user you can see Kaz is a christian and proud to be "forgiven". I think his faith should be part of his de-masking.

Monster's Ball: Abyss vs. Stevie Richards

There is not much to say about this one. This match should be bloody and violent. Stevie Richards will go over in this one with help from Raven and Daffney. Raven's contract status is in question here, but TNA has brought him in before for such appearances.

Tara vs. Angelina Love

This return match would be fairly short but Tara will be able to show off her skill. Tara will retain the title with help from The Beautiful People officially breaking up the played-out stable.

AJ Styles vs. Kurt Angle

This match should be the best out of three falls. The match would resemble 3 stages of hell match but without the falls count anywhere.

The first match would be a straight match, the second would be a submission match and the third inside the six sides of steel.

AJ Styles is long overdue to win the TNA title. AJ will go over in this match to become the TNA World Champion.

Styles will win clean and will be congratulated by Bobby Lashley.This will leave fans wondering where Lashley's affiliation is. Is it with the MEM or the TNA originals?

Could Hulk Hogan Give TNA A Boost?

adam smerecki — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:04:38 -0400

As reported on Rajah.com, Hulk Hogan recently did an interview with the Southtown Star.

Hulk seems to think if TNA signs him, it will give the company the boost they need to compete with the WWE.

The following are a few quotes from the article:

"I watch both products. (TNA's) like the little engine that could. Everybody thought they wouldn't be around for long, and they've been chugging along for seven years. They gain momentum every week. They seem to be real fresh. When a lot of guys go over to that side of the fence, they seem to get a spring in their step," Hogan said. He added that he also watched the WWE product saying, "Vince is the constant. He's the standard of excellence. I just love watching his show because you never know what he is going to do. Plus, the production, you can't even touch his production. It's so dialed-in. It's amazing just to see how they put the pieces together."

"If you look at history, everyone says, 'History repeats itself.' With all of the choices in the universe of entertainment, I look at the big package and look at the big picture from 40,000 feet. I see history repeating itself. I see TNA getting strong. I see Vince McMahon being impeccable except for a few little holes in the boat."

Hogan continued, "TNA is lacking that one momentum-shifting move, that one big name that would even the playing field, the brand (that is) just as powerful as the WWE brand. (TNA's) lacking the big piece of the puzzle. It wouldn't matter who did what in the past. It will be a totally even playing field. You never know."

Reading between the lines it seems as if Hulk is reffering to the Monday Night Wars and in particular what WCW did to compete (namely signing Hogan). I agree that WCW signing Hogan (at the time) was a brilliant move but this time around it would not work for TNA.

Hogan as always would demand a giant contract and TNA really should be focusing on talent that will actually be in the ring. Hogan is forgetting that TNA has signed some major names, and their ratings increased but, not at the WWE level.

TNA has too many figure heads anyway. Jim Cornette and Mick Foley both were signed to be General Manager figures and look where Mick Foley is now. On top of that, we haven't seen Jim Cornette in weeks!

TNA recently signed TAZ and Bobby Lashley. Bobby Lashley appeared on TV for a few seconds and no ratings spike at all. We have yet to see TAZ on TV but I am sure the ratings will remain the same after time. TAZ also will not be in the ring so this just adds the total number of manager roles. Even if TAZ is moved to the announcer table, there is still a need for talent in the ring.

Hogan's day has passed. He would have helped TNA years ago when Jeff Jarrett came to him with a contract. We caught a glimpse of Hogan getting smashed in Japan by a Double J guitar swing and it ended there.

Today TNA needs differant help. I am not denying Hogan's drawing power but, Hogan does not have the staying power to have a lasting effect. Just making a few impact appearances and maybe a pay per view won't do the trick. TNA needs production help. TNA needs creative help. TNA does not need Hulk Hogan.

Will DX Destroy Legacy?

adam smerecki — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:34:01 -0400

Time for some good ol' speculation. I don't want to act as if I am booking this scenario, because I wouldn't book what I am about to speculate anyway.

Let's get to it.

DX will destroy Legacy for good. Yep that's my bold prediction. All the signs are pointing towards it and I am sure of it.

Considering Shawn Michaels is set to return before Summer Slam and a DX "World Tour" has been confirmed we can undoubtedly say that DX has one more run in them. How do I know HBK will return before Summer Slam? Well he is on the promotional poster!

I know things change, but all the signs are still pointing to the return of HBK. As for the DX "World Tour," you can look that up on your own.

Legacy has been hinting towards a break up for quite some time. As many fans have speculated in the past, Ted DiBiase will be turning face sooner than later.

We just saw an inkling of that on RAW this week when he wrestled Randy Orton. As for Cody Rhodes we can expect him to stay in Legacy a bit longer than DiBiase.

If the DiBiase face turn occurs before Summer Slam, then I speculate Jack Swagger will take his place in some capacity.

Triple H will not win the title at Night of Champions. Whether Cena or Orton is victorious is irrelevant. Legacy will cause Triple H to lose thus setting up a feud for Summer Slam. DX will most likely reunite at Night of Champions or soon after.

The Summer Slam main event will be DX v.s. Legacy.

Which form of Legacy will be a tough one to call. Depending on the DiBiase face turn or if Orton Retains the title.

If Orton retains the title he will most likely have to defend it at Summer Slam. If that happens then Legacy will consist of Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase. If there is a face turn before Summer Slam, and Orton does not have the title, then we are looking at Orton and Rhodes to face DX.

Of course a great stipulation for this match would be whomever gets the pin, gets the title sort of thing. Yes, this only works if Orton has the title.

Watch for Jack Swagger to be involved in some capacity in this main event. Swagger will not team with Orton to face DX that seems for certain.

The best thing about Pro Wrestling is speculating what is going to happen next. I hope I made you think and enjoyed the read.

TNA's Gravitation Towards Mixed Martial Arts

adam smerecki — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:40:59 -0400

Bobby Lashley at first was an interesting signing for TNA. Then, the wrestling world learned TNA would be taking a back seat to his MMA career. The news caused me to think about TNA as a "wrestling" company.

Why would TNA sign a wrestler that had no intention of wrestling full time?

Well, this is a pattern for TNA.

The pattern begins with TNA's very first pay per view. Ken Shamrock (if you remember) won the NWA World Title Tournament.

Shamrock has major ties with the MMA world and not to mention he is a former competitor in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). Shamrock in turn was the first NWA/TNA champion.

TNA's transition to the six-sided ring became eerily similar to the octagon used in the UFC. The transition came to fruition once TNA signed with Spike TV.

The pattern continues with the network Spike TV. TNA is always in competition with the UFC which is also broadcast on Spike. Just before the Spike TV deal, TNA used Tito Ortiz as a referee. Ortiz is a former MMA competitor and had ties with Dana White, the president of the UFC.

This competition has spilled over into the ring. TNA continues to use talent from the MMA world such has Frank Trigg. Trigg "fought" AJ Styles in a MMA-style match (which did not go over well with fans); nonetheless, TNA continues to try and tap into the MMA market.

Kurt Angle has made is very clear at times that he would like to compete in an MMA-style match. TNA has not made any objection publically about his statements or desire to do so.

As a matter of fact, Kurt Angle beat Brock Lesnar in Japan for the IWGP Heavyweight Title. As we know, Brock Lesnar is now under contract with the UFC.

Samoa Joe is a MMA-style wrestler and is seen training as such. During certain vignettes TNA uses footage of Joe kick-boxing in a UFC-style ring.

On top of that, Samoa Joe and Kurt Angle have wrestled an MMA-style match (though not booked as one) at the "Lockdown" pay per view.

Finally TNA has signed TAZ. TAZ is the perfect example of the MMA-style wrestler. In fact he was booked as such in the original ECW.

It is no coincidence that TAZ will most likely be linked with Samoa Joe when he makes his debut on TNA programming. Though TAZ will not be competing in the ring, the MMA vibe is the still there.

TNA needs to re- evaluate it's goals as a company. Right now, its a total mess.

Recently TNA used a storyline to put over Samoa Joe as a part of the Main Event Mafia. In which Joe "faked' wrestling Kevin Nash, Booker T., Scott Steiner, and Kurt Angle just to fool Sting. Well if TNA is so caught up in "real" fighting why would they fake anything?

I mean wrestling is fake, right?

The Top Five Worst Pro Wrestling Fans in the World

adam smerecki — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:22:58 -0400

After 25 plus years of watching wrestling on television and attending live events I have come to the conclusion that wrestling fans are annoying!

It's with a heavy heart I have to admit this. I myself am a wrestling fanatic and sometimes I am just disappointed in my wrestling brethren.

I am not ashamed of my wrestling fandom but I couldn't resist compiling a list of the "Worst Wrestling Fans in the World."

5) The Attention Getter

The Attention Getter is the guy in the crowd that is there just to be on TV. He will stop at nothing to get his face on camera even if he has to wear a clown costume.

You all have seen this guy on TV (most likely on WWE programming). This guy is up there with the couple that sits in the front row wearing their hot pink "surf style" wind breakers from the early 1990's.

I know you all have seen that couple on TV, especially at a pay per view.

4) The Random Storyline Guy

The Random Storyline Guy is the guy who sits behind you at a live show and spits out idiotic ideas during the whole show.

Most of the time the storylines he would like to see consists of wrestlers that work for other companies or are retired.

No, sir, Hulk Hogan will not be taking on Samoa Joe at the next Raw taping in Toledo, Ohio!

3) The Wrong Show Guy

The Wrong Show Guy is the guy who shows up to a WWE show with a TNA shirt on and bitches about how bad the show is.

This of course can go both ways. It just so happens I have only seen TNA fans do this.

This guy needs to stop. He will not put the WWE out of business on his own. Besides, you bought the ticket, you idiot!

2) The Railing Crasher

The Railing Crasher is the fan that runs to the front row just to block the view of everyone else. Most of the time this is guy is sitting close enough that he doesn't have to do this.

This guy will stop at nothing to slam into the front row railing just stick his sweaty hand out in hopes of getting a high five from a Diva or Knockout. Have a seat, sir!

1) The Tapper:

The Tapper is the most annoying fan of all. This guy feels the need to repeatedly "tap" a wrestler the second they are in arm's length.

He continually taps any given wrestler as if they are on fire! Believe me sir Kane is not on fire!

One fan that did not make the list is the E-C-W chanter guy. This guy annoys me to no end. ECW is over. Stop chanting it as if every table break or chair shot is a "Holy S@#T" moment.

What's Next for Triple H?

adam smerecki — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:58:43 -0400

Wrestlemania is now in the books, and for the most part it went well.

Triple H and Randy Orton had the daunting task of topping the HBK/Undertaker match. This task was nearly impossible. Not to mention the crowd was just not into the match.

With Backlash now on the horizon, the feud between Triple H and Orton is stale, and a six-man tag match won't save it with the WWE championship seeming like an afterthought. The Orton/Triple H angle would have been just fine without a title on the line.

What's next for Triple H?

Let's just say (for the sake of argument) Randy Orton wins the title at Backlash, Batista would be the next choice to challenge for the title. Before Batista was injured, he was feuding with Orton anyway. Triple H is now left without a storyline.

There is no doubt Triple H draws ratings, whether he is the champ or not, but an interesting opponent might help. Cena and Triple H has been done, HBK and Triple H has been done, heck even Edge has been done.

Who does this leave to oppose Triple H?

One man...The Undertaker.

The Undertaker may be retiring this year and a major feud with Triple H is the next logical choice. As we know there are still three top dogs in the WWE.

The Undertaker, Triple H, and Shawn Michaels.

The Undertaker/HBK match is now in the past. The road to Wrestlemania 26 has Triple H vs. The Undertaker written all over it.

What's Wrong With TNA Wrestling?

adam smerecki — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 19:35:46 -0500

TNA wrestling has prided itself—since it's conception—as something different. As a wrestling company, it was supposed to be the alternative to the WWE.

It started with $10 weekly Pay-Per-Views, the "X Division," and a six sided ring. With these innovative ideas, TNA began to gain a following. The company moved forward and scored a huge TV deal with Spike.

TNA began to boast about it's in-ring performance, and its roster was full of incredible athletes.

Top-tier stars like Christian Cage, Sting, Kurt Angle, and Scott Steiner made the jump to TNA, and the company was on a roll.

That's when the wheels began to fall off.

TNA has attempted to become too big, too fast. The company at this point has lost sight of what made it great in the beginning.

The product has now become a dumping ground for aging WWE stars and horrible WCW-esque storylines. Gimmick matches, like the "Fish Market" brawl, have destroyed what used to be excellent Pay-Per-Views.

On the multimedia front, TNA has tried to keep up with the WWE, launching DVD productions and video games, but falling woefully behind.

The TNA DVDs, production-wise, are not even close to comparable to those of the WWE. Unless you consider a bunch of matches thrown together production. If you are looking for a great documentary DVD, TNA just doesn't have one. I will wait for the Jeff Jarrett DVD to go on sale.

The TNA Impact video game was a total flop. Gamers have not only bashed it in game forums, but have proved it can't compete by not buying it.

TNA has some house-cleaning to do. The company has to get back to great wrestling and engaging story lines. The Main Event Mafia vs. The Front Line has some promise, but even that storyline is a play off of WCW's "New Blood Rising."

TNA has to become its own company again or it will never succeed in the long run. Right now the company brass can change their name to "WWE Light."

Jeff Hardy Does Not Need a Title

adam smerecki — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:59:58 -0500

OK we get it.

Jeff Hardy is popular with younger fans, he is a "daredevil", and he looks cool. Does that mean he should be WWE Champion? I say no.

Jeff Hardy is talented and he has a style that cannot be duplicated, but that does not qualify him to be the face of SmackDown. If anything Hardy will be a transitional champion. WWE creative is just pacifying Hardy fans with this title run.

As we travel down the road to Wrestlemania 25 Jeff Hardy fans will probably be disappointed in the coming months. Hardy does not have the drawing power to main event Wrestlemania and will likely lose his title at "No Way Out" or even as soon as the "Royal Rumble".

It is no secret anymore that Christian has signed on with the WWE and will play a huge role in the current storyline involving the Hardy car accident. Christian will most likely align himself with Edge in some fashion and disrupt the Jeff Hardy title reign.

Matt Hardy's loss of the ECW heavyweight title, has sparked many Internet rumours that point toward his involvement in an angle with his brother. Perhaps a heel turn for Matt against Jeff would make the most sense. Do I smell a sibling rivalry match at Wrestlemania?

When it's all said and done Jeff Hardy is a huge star and deserves all of the accolades he has received. The U.S. or Intercontienantal titles suit him much better. In fact Hardy really doesn't need a title at all to get over. He can provide memorable wrestling moments without them.

Becoming WWE Champion is nothing more than a chapter in what is sure to a storied career for Jeff Hardy.

CM Punk And The Case Of His Disappearing Push

adam smerecki — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 16:25:56 -0500

Oh where?...Oh where? has CM Punk's push gone?

I'll tell ya where, it's buried somewhere in the over populated RAW roster.

CM Punk's push started and ended the day he appeared on RAW to cash in his "Money in the Bank" contract. His win over Edge (though creative) did not help bill Punk as a worthy champion.

The WWE obviously felt the same way or they wouldn't have pointed that fact out every time JBL cut a promo on him. WWE creative failed to put Punk over as a inspirational story and just gave up on the angle.

The simple fact that Punk lost his title due to a backstage attack from Randy Orton is just (for the lack of a better term) bad booking. CM Punk has had chances to gain revenge on Orton and has not gone over in any instance.

In the mean time Punk has been awarded the Tag Team Titles with Kofi Kingston. Need I say more? Ok, the Tag Titles on RAW lack a push as a division in general, let alone back a new push for a former World Champion. Though Kingston and Punk do make an interesting duo, the Tag Titles seem like a consolation prize for Punk.

I propose a CM Punk move to Smackdown and a feud with Jeff Hardy. A Punk/Hardy storyline especially for the World Title would be a fresh and bold booking. Hey it works on Raw vs. Smackdown 2009!

The Detroit Lions Have Found Their Quarterback

adam smerecki — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:26:20 -0500

Whether they like it or not the Lions have found a Quarterback in Daunte Culpepper.

Culpepper has shown more poise in the pocket and skill than any Quarterback the Lions have. I know that is not saying much but it's a start.

The Lions aren't going to go out and grab some "flash in the pan" free agent next year like Matt Cassell or Derek Anderson to build their offense around. As we know the Lions have no reason to draft a Quarterback next year when they need to put together an offensive line and yes a defense that can tackle.

Whether or not the Marinelli regime will be in Detroit next year is irrelevant. Culpepper will be in Detroit and ready to play.

I can see Kevin Smith, Calvin Johnson, and Culpepper being a nice triple threat for the Lions next season. At the very least Culpepper will be a great veteran back up but the Lions have to really groom a rookie first. We all have seen how Stanton turned out not to mention Orlovsky.

I do realize I am talking about the Lions here. A new General Manager in the works and few great moves by the front office this season have the Lions looking up. Culpepper may just be the man to get them out of the cellar.

Detroit Tigers' Offseason May Be a Conservative One

adam smerecki — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 04:58:17 -0500

Detroit Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski has reportedly been saying the Tigers are not interested in acquiring any "top" free agents this year. Seeing as the Tigers are in need of a closer, when asked about Kerry Wood's recent status, Dombrowski considered him a "top" free agent.

With Kerry Wood off the table, the next consideration would be Trevor Hoffman in a closing role for the club. Reportedly Hoffman does not want to leave San Diego and is not in the cards for the Tigers either.

As of late, the only trade being considered is for Julio Lugo. The Tigers are offering Dontrelle Willis or Nate Robertson for the Boston shortstop.

This trade is a no-brainer. The Tigers recently released Edgar Renteria, Carlos Guillen has been moved to the outfield, and Ramon Santiago is not considered a starting shortstop. Lugo may have lost some numbers at the plate in 2008, but he is a solid shortstop and is expected to improve.

The Tigers have been in talks with a couple of other clubs about a catcher, but nothing has come to fruition.

Magglio Ordonez has been removed from the trade table (if he ever was on it) completely, as the Tigers feel he is too important to the club.

This leaves the Tigers with no new pitching so far. Nate Robertson, if not traded, needs to hit the bullpen. His pitching style would be much more efficiently utilized in a long relief role. That would leave the club with another hole in the starting rotation.

The Tigers need pitching all around. They need at least one solid starter, bullpen pitching, and a closer. The Tigers have a lot of faith in Dave Dombrowski, but if he doesn't make any pitching moves, the Tigers may have to wonder about him.

The Christian Cage Saga Continues

adam smerecki — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:40:07 -0500

The Christian Cage contract discussion is still a hot topic. Apparently, early reports of Cage staying with TNA are not true. Cage has yet to sign anything with TNA or WWE.

Cage has played this portion of his career expertly. When Cage left the WWE he did it quietly and showed up on TNA television with virtually no warning.

Cage has taken himself from mid-card status to a main eventer in TNA. Now if he were to head back to the WWE, he would be expected to main event or at least have a few high profile story lines.

Prowrestling.net has some food for thought regarding the Christian Cage saga:

"At Monday's Impact taping, Christian Cage was written out of television. Cage was attacked by the Main Event Mafia and left lying at the conclusion of the show, similar to the New World Order taking out The Giant on an episode of Monday Nitro in January 1999 because he was heading off to WWE. However, there is an opening for a possible return to TNA.

The angle was written in a way for it to be a blowoff of his character in case Cage signs with WWE, but he could also come back as a vengeful babyface should he re-sign with TNA.

Cage is still listening to TNA, so he's not a lock to return to WWE quite yet. People close to the situation believe he is leaning towards returning to WWE, but he is still open to the idea of re-signing with TNA should they make him an offer he can't refuse."

I tend to believe Cage is well suited for whatever job he decides to take. For TNA's sake lets hope he stays.

Is Christian Cage Heading To WWE?

adam smerecki — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 04:26:01 -0500

There have been rumblings within the wrestling community about a Christian Cage return to WWE. Reportedly his contract is up soon with TNA and this leaves the door open to head back to the WWE.

Christian sure has made a name for himself away from the WWE and I believe this is the best time for him to make an "IMPACT" in the WWE. Of course I have no proof that Cage is returning but I would like to submit some evidence.

The following is a Blog entry from Jim Ross' website:

"Mr. Ross, thank you for answering my question a couple months ago. Here is another one. Rumors abound that Christian Cage will be coming back from his three year stint in TNA. Given the climate in WWE now(smaller-traditional champions, more wrestling), do you think Christian Cage has turned up his stock in the eyes of Vince with multiple World Title Reigns in TNA enough to get some recognition in WWE? I would love to see Christian reach the pinnacle, wouldn't you?!? Also, any likelihood of a four-Way Tag Team TLC Match(Miz and Morrison, Hardys, Edge and Christian, Dibiase and Rhodes)? That would be FANTASTIC!"

Sun, 10/19/2008 - 21:46 — hellbilly316

J.R.'s response:

"I don't know what the "state of the WWE" is or means but my checks have been clearing ok. Christian is a talent guy who I am happy I signed to the WWE and I'm sure he will make the best decision for him. The WWE would be stupid not to recognize his talent and they're not stupid."

Take this for what it's worth but I believe it points to a WWE return for Cage.

Vince McMahon Has Lost It!

adam smerecki — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 05:38:51 -0400

Vince McMahon has lost it!

Wrestling fans around the world know Vince as the over dramatic owner of World Wrestling Entertainment. Nowadays we can take the "wrestling" out of the company's title.

There have been reports as of late that Mr. McMahon has banned certain wrestling terms from his company. The terms "Fan," "Mark," "Fan Nation," "Sports Entertainment," and the catch phrase "Suck It" have all been scratched from the company's wrestling scripts.

These terms have been replaced with the term "entertainment." The WWE is now to be known as an "entertainment" company. Last night on RAW Michael Cole blatantly referred to Evan Bourne as an "entertainer" not a pro wrestler.

If any of you have seen the film "Beyond the Mat" Mr. McMahon states in an interview that the WWF/WWE '...makes movies.'" If you have not seen this go rent the movie or buy it. It's worth seeing for yourself.

With the recent hiring of Freddie Prinze Jr. as a writer there is no doubt the direction this company is heading. Wrestling fans are going to see more "WWE Films" and story lines that should be left to the movies.

Mark my words: TNA Wrestling is on the rise and it's the WWE'S own fault.

Why Monday Night Raw is Flat

adam smerecki — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:05:54 -0400

As of late Monday Night Raw has been flat. The show seems as if it has been thrown together at the last minute. The story lines are ill conceived and for a lack of a better term, boring.

The latest WWE draft really has done the show no good. The Rey Mysterio draft pick has not worked out like I am sure the creative team wanted it to. Mysterio's storyline with Kane is lacking and at this point seems like filler.

The injury to John Cena really hurt the show considering his feud with Batista was just starting to heat up.

Mike Adamle is absolutly the worst GM in history. His "bumbling idiot" persona would be acceptable if it didn't seem like a shoot.

The title picture on RAW is a total mess. I am not saying that Chris Jericho is a bad champion but the title was just thrown on him. It is painfully obvious that he will be a transitional champion. The Jericho feud with HBK was a major bright spot for RAW, so it seems necessary that the feud has to involve a title. The problem is where does CM Punk fit in to this? Punk has been totally buried without even getting pinned clean for the title.

So where does RAW go from here? Batista most likely will be the number one contender for the World Title but does a fued with either Jericho or HBK seem interesting? Batista has fueded with both already. An HBK title run does not seem likely after No Mercy so it looks like Jericho is stuck with title until Batista takes it from him.

With John Cena still out, RAW needs Randy Orton back in the title picture ASAP. Batista will need an opponent soon.

When it's all said and done RAW will be back to normal once these injuries get sorted out.

Prime Time Wrestling the Best Independent Circuit Around

adam smerecki — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:42:47 -0400

Prime Time Wrestling is the best independent wrestling promotion in the Midwest, dare I say the country. I have been to many, many wrestling shows in my time, and this promotion takes the cake every time.

“Kingpin” Dave Martin is the sole promoter of the Michigan-based company. He runs his shows out of the Diamondback Saloon in Belleville, Michigan, and I have to say the site is perfect.

Prime Time Wrestling has welcomed such stars as: Rhino, Al Snow, Johnny Devine, Robert Roode, Eric Young, The Motor City Machine Guns, and plenty more. I am not talking about a show that has one of these aforementioned stars on the card—I am talking about all of the stars on one card.

“Kingpin” took time out to do a quick interview with me…

Adam: “How long have you been promoting PTW?”

King Pin: “I’ve promoted PTW for six years.”

A: “How did the Diamondback Saloon get the rights to hold the events?”

KP: “I’m good friends with Russ, the owner of the Diamondback, and with the layout of the bar I thought it would be great for a show.”

A: “How exactly do you book your talent for the shows? Is the process exhausting or are most wrestlers eager to work?”

KP: “I book my talent (if TNA talent) through Bob Ryder of TNA bookings...all other wrestlers I contact personally. And wrestlers are usually always eager to make money and get experience.”

A: “We heard about the Sid Vicious no show...what is your opinion on him?”

KP: “Wow my opinion of Sid....Well I’ve known Sid for about 18 years and we always were very cordial towards each other...I was warned about Sid having a no show rep and rolled the dice and got burned...I think he is very unprofessional and its no wonder why he is not with WWE or TNA..I’ll take the high road and leave it at that...”

A: “Which wrestler are you hoping to book for a show more than any other?”

KP: “Wow my biggest regret as a promoter and booker is that I didn’t have a chance to book my friend the late Curt Hennig...as far as now, booking Ric Flair now that he is available would be pretty big for PTW.”

A: “Do you wrestle yourself?”

KP: “In 1989 I bounced at a local strip club and met a lot of the boys from WWF...we hung out , became friends and was talked into being trained to wrestle...

"The late Ricky Cortez trained me and I bounced around for a while, but when I had a chance to work full time for Jerry Lawler down in Memphis and I decided to stay in Michigan and keep my $75,000 a year job rather than make $50 a night wrestling.

"Do I regret it sometimes? Yes...But at the time I wanted the money. I tried a comeback in 2002 training with Scott D'Amore, but a leg injury stopped that. Thus I promote now.”

A: “What is the final card for this next show?”

KP: “The card for Sept 21st is...Tyson Dux vs. Brad martin...Old Timer Jeff King VS. A1...Jamie D and Eddie Venom Vs Tony Smalls and Kat...Jason Harris vs. CK3...Johnny Devine vs. Zach Gowen...Cowboy James Storm vs. Eric Young...and for the PTW title Champion Robert Roode vs The Monster Abyss.”

A: “Just to be clear to the fans...Big Poppa Pump will be at this show?”

“Yes Scott Steiner will be at PTW signing autographs and meeting the fans...His knee injury will keep him from wrestling though.”

You can check out PTW online @http://www.ptwwrestling.com

ECW is WWE's Secret Gem

adam smerecki — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 11:25:15 -0400

The WWE's first attempt at recreating the ECW of old failed miserably. We all remember the first episode on Sci-Fi with the "Wrestling Zombie."

Since that lame attempt to satisfy the network, ECW has climbed higher and higher up the ratings chart. The show has survived a power struggle between Paul Heyman and Vince McMahon, a disastrous pay per view debut, and the highly critical "original" ECW fans.

ECW is in the top five highest rated shows on Sci-Fi and scores a higher rating than TNA's Impact on a weekly basis. The WWE can put any of there top stars on the show to score ratings. To their credit, lately they have not.

To be on the ECW roster is not a stigma anymore. Considering ECW stars compete on most WWE pay per views, being on the "C" show is irrelevant.

ECW has done more with an hour show than TNA can dream of in two hours. Not only do established stars become more noticeable, new stars are invented every week. The new star initiative on ECW is pure genius. Not to mention the story lines are actually compelling. I found myself cheering for Tommy Dreamer to teach Colin Delaney a lesson during this past episode (Delaney was released from the company shortly after.)

The ECW roster has a lot to offer. Veterans like Finley, Matt Hardy, Mark Henry, and even Tony Atlas make their presence an asset to the show. Young stars like Ricky Ortiz, and Evan Bourne are really taking off. Not to mention the former tag champs Miz and Morrison are in the locker room (John Morrison is also a former ECW champion.)

ECW may not have the same feel as the original but this version is darn good. Maybe the WWE should change the name brand of the show? I don't know. Anything they want to call it is fine with me.

ECW is must see TV on Tuesday nights!

Can the Detroit Tigers Be Fixed?

adam smerecki — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:56:26 -0400

In the wake of Joel Zumaya's latest stint on the DL, it's time to focus on next year. Yes, I am throwing in the towel this year.

The Tigers never gained a swagger after their 2006 season. Of course, losing the World Series can bring a team down, but not this far.

Let's start with our beloved manager, Jim Leyland.

He looks as if he has lost his feel for the game. His crazy batting lineups and all-around poor judgement should be enough to get him to walk away on his own. Don't put it past him. He has done it before in Colorado.

If that isn't enough, we all know he has lost the respect of the team. It is obvious by the looks he gets from his players when he makes those insane pitching changes.

To top it all off, the Tigers need a manager that has the common courtesy to eat after he gives his postgame interview! Those of you who have seen this on FOX Sports know what I am talking about.

While we are at it, let's talk about our pitching coach. Chuck Hernandez has to move along as well. What exactly did he mean when he told Justin Verlander to hold back a little? I don't think Verlander has ever recovered from that gem of coaching knowledge.

Give us a break. Has anyone ever seen a pitching staff with more arm problems? Bonderman, Zumaya, Rodney, and Jones all went down with injuries at one time or another.

I have to attribute that to mechanics. Whose job is it to work on mechanics (don't answer that, it's a rhetorical question). Plus our pitchers can't field their position! Fernando Rodney neglects to get off the mound to cover first. Come on folks, that is elementary baseball!

Looking toward next year, we all know what we need...pitching! We need starters, relievers, long-term relievers, and yes, a closer! I am not someone who boos at games, but I sure as heck close my eyes when Jones is on the mound. Let alone when Rodney closes. It's painful folks, painful!

So what can we do to accomplish a good season next year? Well, we have to assess what we have to lose, to gain, and what we need.

The biggest position the Tigers need filled is a "lights-out" closer. Too many games this year have gone into extra innings because of the closing position. Sadly, Ordonez is our biggest fish for trade bait. We know our pitching staff needs improving, and I see a big trade involving Ordonez in our future.

To make up for his loss, we will need to pick up a bat that can protect Cabrera in the lineup. I am not sure Guillen's bat will do the trick. In the outfield, we have Matt Joyce, who can move to RF. His bat is strong enough to be an everyday player.

Joyce is definitely not going to fill Ordonez's shoes completely at the plate, but the pitching help we get for Ordonez will be worth it.

Renteria getting released is a given, and did I mention Sheffield has been put on waivers?

The Tigers have signed Freddie Garcia. Between Garcia, Bonderman, and Willis, they are all damaged goods, but not beyond repair. A good offseason of rehab could possibly do the trick for all three of those guys.

Marcus Thames is not an everyday player, but the Tigers don't want to lose him. That's where another big bat in LF comes in. I, for one, want Adam Dunn. I am not sure what it will take to get him, but I want him.

One bright spot this year...Galarraga

I was going to write up a lineup for next year...but I figured, after how good the Tigers looked this year on paper, I would only jinx them.

John Cena vs. Batista: Dream Match?

adam smerecki — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:06:39 -0400

Let's begin by asking, "why?"

Why is the Cena vs. Batisita match at Summer Slam being billed as a "Dream Match"? Does the fact that the WWE is calling the match a dream match make it so? Or do the fans decide?

The WWE this past Monday on Raw gave us a few reasons why the match is a dream match, or at least why they are billing it as such. The WWE believes the facts are clear: Both men have been individual and tag team champions, both men have main event-ed Wrestlemania, and here's the best reason...they have never faced each other until now.

Those reasons are not good enough. Ignoring the fact that there really has been no build up to this match (which Cena stated on Raw) or any storyline whatsoever, this match is not a "Dream Match."

For this match to be great there really has to be something more. A belt on the line would be nice! That way pride is not the only factor. Maybe a No. 1 contender stipulation? (Mike Adamle probably forgot to say that when he announced the match in the first place).

Even with those stipulations this match is not a dream match. Give this match another couple years and it will qualify.

Dream matches are Bret Hart vs. Kurt Angle, or Sting vs. HBK. Matches like those seem to be unreachable, and if they were ever to take place would seem like a dream. Hence the term "Dream Match".

Hogan vs. Flair was billed as a dream match for years, but really fell short and became somewhat of a stinker. We all remember Hogan vs. Andre the Giant and the build up to Wrestlemania III. That match had something that cannot be re-created. Even though Hogan and Andre had faced each other before, that match just had "it".

Cena vs. Batista is no Hogan vs. Andre. Especially with no build up.