Bleacher Report - Articles by Ryan Simon

Time Takes All But Memories: Volume One

Ryan Simon — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 03:04:17 -0500

First off, wrestling fans, I would like to thank you for checking out the Verne Gagne article and leaving your thoughts and comments. The article also got two POTD votes, which is a first for me. I would like to personally thank you folks for the positive feedback, it is greatly appreciated.

I recently read an absolutely marvelous article written by AkD about his memories of wrestling. I was absolutely enthralled by his story and it got my POTD vote. It also got my wheels spinning. Nonetheless, AkD's article got the well deserved nod for POTD.

Personally, I love to read about other wrestling fans memories of this great sport we still cherish today. It brings me back to a much simpler time in life. It makes me realize my roots a little more than I already did. I consider myself to be an "ol' school" wrestling fan.

To quote "Rowdy" Roddy Piper; "Ol' School is cool!"

Indeed it is.

I have so many wonderful memories from my childhood and most of them involve wrestling. Well I don't know where else to start but from the beginning.

I always watched wrestling as a young child. Like every other youngster at the time I was buying into the whole "say your prayers and take your vitamins" marketing machine that was "Hulkamania."

Let's just say that "Hulkamania" jazz fizzled rapidly when I saw Bret "Hitman" Hart wrestle for the first time. "Hitman" was the personification of what a great wrestler is made of; brains, brawn, heart, and soul. But more on that later.

Of course I had my clique of friends who were also wrestling fans. One of my fondest memories and coolest stories I tell involve one friend in particular.

I'd say it was late '92-early '93 or so. My best friend and I decided that we wanted to buy a WWF Action Figure, one of the new ones they were showing in advertisements with the "Macho Man" Randy Savage.

I had previously owned some wrestling figures of Sting and Sid Vicious from WCW but my dog ended up chewing them up. But this meant a little more.

We saved up five hundred pennies($5.00). The figures cost $4.96. I'll never forget it as long as I breathe. We walked into Wal-Mart like kings with a Ziploc bag full of the shiny copper coins and set off for the toy aisle.

When we got to the action figures we decided on "Macho Man" because it was the coolest guy they had. It was a moment filled with joy but then we looked at each other as the reality hit us.

Who is he gonna wrestle? We never thought of that before. How you gonna have a wrestling match with one action figure? That would be like Flair going out and having a match by himself. Come to think of it, I think Flair could have a match with a broomstick and still get the loudest pop of the night. Excuse me, I digress.

Back to the story, now we were in a dilemma. I begged my mom for five more dollars to get an opponent for "Macho Man." But we weren't exactly rolling in the dough when I was a kid. So I understood when she told me it would have to be some other time.

It was at that moment that I noticed something out of the corner of my eye at the end of the aisle on the floor. I walked over to see what it was, with my "padna" right by my side. As I got closer I realized it was a folded up five dollar bill. I thought I was gonna jump outta my skin.

We were so happy we were jumping up and down in the aisle doin' chest bumps and smackin' and pushin' each other like we were on the football field. I will never forget that moment of happiness I felt, it's amazing how little things like that made us so happy as children.

Needless to say the "Macho Man" had his opponent that night, it was Irwin R. Schyster. otherwise known as I.R.S. We had a classic baby face v.s. heel match that night on a ring that was made from a Nike shoe box. I could have never been happier.

I guess that's how the old saying goes; "If it's meant to be, it will be."

This is when I really started getting into wrestling. I was already into football in a major way, to the point that I had played so hard that I developed horrible migraine headaches 4-6 days a week as a result and had a doctor tell me at nine years old that I could no longer play.

I was crushed. It seemed as though my football career had ended before it had even begun. The pain was unbearable from the migranes and from not being able to play football with all of my friends anymore. We still played street ball but it was different than "takin' the field."

I remember flipping through the channels one day and up popped a commercial with a sinister looking Cactus Jack muttering something about "Spin the wheel, make the deal!" Then it flashed on the t.v. "Halloween Havoc 93: Live at the U.N.O. Lakefront Arena, New Orleans."

I snapped out of my little depression quick-like and ran to the phone. "DAD! DAD! You're not gonna believe this! WCW is coming, Halloween Havoc..." He cut me off. "I know...I already got us tickets, Bub!"

It was moments like this that assured me that my Pops was definitely the coolest cat around.

It was on the way there that my Pops told me about another wrestler who would be there that night. "There's gonna be a guy there tonight..." He said, swerving in and out of traffic in his sleek white Mazda RX-7 with the black-and-white racing stripes on the side.

"And I'm gonna tell ya' Bub. He's the man! He's gonna come out with a fine chick at his side. And he's gonna do the chop, like this"(he then did a chop to the air and made a sound effect with it, only Pops). "And then he's gonna go, Whoooooooooo! And everybody's gonna go nuts. I'm tellin' ya, listen to what I say and watch. His name is Ric Flair."

As you can tell by the title, wrestling fans, this will be my first series here on B/R. You can catch the rest of this story as well as others in Volume Two. I hope you enjoyed this first Volume as much as I've enjoyed sharing these memories with you.

As always, wrestling fans, this is about you. Please feel free to leave a comment or anything else you'd like to say regarding your memories of pro wrestling.

I also opened up the polls once again with a little trivia for you, folks. I will reveal the answer in Volume Two. So be sure to hit 'em up and test your knowledge.

Well, that's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

Wrestling Tragedy: Verne Gagne Linked to Death of Fellow Nursing Home Resident

Ryan Simon — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 01:01:05 -0500

He is the pioneer of the American Wrestling Alliance (AWA), of which he was a 10-time World Heavyweight Champion. He also holds the record for most combined days as World Champion.

He also played for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL) and competed in the 1948 Olympics on the Wrestling Team. He is one of the most decorated and accomplished figures in wrestling history, along with the likes of Lou Thesz and Wahoo McDaniel.

He is also the man that helped put Hulk Hogan on the map (in the AWA) and then tried to end "Hulkamania" prematurely by apparently offering the Iron Sheik $100,000 to break Hogan's leg in their WWF Championship match at Madison Square Garden.

Sheik refused and the rest is history.

Verne Gagne is a man whose name is synonymously known in the wrestling industry. He is the man who molded "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, The Iron Sheik, "Mr. Perfect" Curt Hennig and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, among others, in his intense training camp on his farm in Minnesota.

The stories and accomplishments of Gagne's legacy are endless. He is without a doubt one of the forefathers of the wrestling industry, period.

With all that said and done, back to present day. Unfortunately, Gagne is now suffering from the disastrous effects of Alzheimer's related Dementia.

Now in his 80's Gagne has lived the last few years in the memory loss unit of the Friendship Village Nursing Home in Bloomington, Minn.

This is where, on Jan. 26, Gagne reportedly got into an altercation with another Alzheimer's patient, 97-year-old Helmut Gutmann. Gagne reportedly slammed Gutmann to the floor, causing a broken hip and a head injury.

Gutmann was hospitalized and released. Gutmann, an accomplished cancer researcher and violinist who fled Nazi Germany in 1936, was treated for his injuries but later was hospitalized again.

Gutmann died on Feb. 14 due to complications from the injuries sustained in the incident.

It is reported that Gagne has had several altercations in the past while at the home, including a previous incident were he choked and pushed Gutmann.

Gutmann's daughter, Ruth Hennig, commented; "I don't blame him, in the sense that I know he's not fully responsible for what he did," Hennig said. "But on the other hand, I know that my father would still be alive today if they hadn't had this altercation...I'm more sad than I am angry."

Verne Gagne no longer resides at Friendship Village Nursing Home.

Bloomington Police have launched an investigation into the death but it is unlikely that Gagne will be charged with anything, due to his deteriorating mental capacity. It is so unfortunate to see such a legendary figure in the business not even aware that his wrestling days are long over.

Not much more information has been given on this unfortunate situation due to patient privacy practices and the ongoing investigation.

Gagne's son, Greg Gagne, described the incident as a terrible accident. He referred all other questions to the family attorney, Julian Hook, who did not return calls.

Verne Gagne and his wife could not be reached for comment.

Well, folks I just got this news and I figured I would share it with you. It is an unfortunate incident with unfortunate circumstances. And the fact that it involves one of the pioneers of the wrestling industry makes it that much more important.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Verne and his family in their courageous battle as well as the Gutmann Family in this unfortunate time.

It makes other trivial bullshit like B/R Wrestling Section factions seem minuscule.

This is reality, folks. As "Rowdy" Roddy Piper has said in the past, "This is your reality check!"

I recently read a well-written article by Jason LeBlanc on here about how he will not write anymore articles on this "faction thing" or anything non-wrestling.

I couldn't agree more. It was a great article, I must say. As wrestling journalists, we have more important things to write about than "Internet factions."

I for one, am guilty of writing about "this faction thing" in a couple of articles.

We are wrestling journalists, NOT "internet faction journalists" or "Joe Burgett journalists." We report the news on wrestling and we write about what we are passionate about. I have been disenchanted as well with the B/R Wrestling Section lately because of the foolishness.

With all due respect to Joe Burgett, I was sent an article on my profile saying how Joe was having a rap battle or whatever. Then I go to check the article out and in the title is some kind of elementary line about someone that "poops ice cream."

ARE YOU F***ING KIDDING ME?

I didn't give it the time of day because it seemed ridiculous for me to even spend a minute reading something like that. I came here to read and write about the Professional Wrestling Industry, not about "pooping ice cream" or "this faction thing."

I'm sure it was a nice little rhyme but that isn't my cup of tea at all. Save it for recess on the playground.

I respect well-written articles that mean something. That article to me meant that the B/R Wrestling Section has indeed turned into a circus and is not the well-oiled machine it should be.

Please excuse the harsh language, wrestling fans. But this topic has been bugging me for a few days and I wanted to give my input on this whole fiasco. Jason's article made perfect sense and it made me realize and analyze what's really important here.

Especially now with this very serious Verne Gagne situation, to which our #1 writer on the wrestling section refers to it as a joke. I found that to be an appalling and juvenile comment.

OK, I need to get off my soap-box because I can go on and on about this.

As always, wrestling fans, this is about you. What are your thoughts on this Verne Gagne situation? Is it a joke? Has the B/R Wrestling Section really turned into a circus?

Please let your voices be heard, ladies and gentlemen.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

Is This The Beginning of The End For The Main Event Mafia?

Ryan Simon — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:38:32 -0500

First of all, wrestling fans, I would like to thank you for reading and responding to my "Assassins E-mail Revealed" article. It evidently sparked the reaction I was looking for. With more than 20 comments from prominent writers in the B/R Wrestling Section.

It showed the true diversity of opinions here on B/R. I believe that is the core of what we as wrestling journalists here on B/R stand for—letting our voices be heard. Thanks again to all parties involved.

Now, to the main subject at hand—Total Nonstop Action. I haven't written a piece on them yet and I feel TNA really deserves a lot of credit. I really enjoy watching TNA Impact. I get to see a lot of familiar faces and I like the action.

One familiar face is di capo de tutti capo (Boss of Bosses) of the Main Event Mafia, Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle. In my mind, the Main Event Mafia is the most powerful faction in professional wrestling right now. How can you go wrong with Angle, Sting, Nash, Booker, and Scott Steiner?

I really respect TNA and their programming. They have veteran play-by-play man Iron Mike Tenay, the best in the business besides "Good Ol' JR." They also have an array of really great wrestlers such as A.J. Styles, Jeff Jarrett, and Samoa Joe among others. Also the familiar face of James E. Cornette is a big plus.

All of these extremely gifted people have a great knowledge of the business and adds a lot to TNA's programming. Personally, I'd much rather watch TNA Impact than WWE any day. Kurt Angle in my mind is the best professional wrestler in the industry. The only man I feel can compete with his in ring ability, charisma and intensity is WWE's Randy Orton.

I feel that WWE is still trying to find their groove as far as their programming goes. With the PG rating it's obvious they want to change directions. Even though TNA isn't the marketing empire that WWE is I believe it has already found it's groove.

TNA's programming is focused on showcasing talented professional wrestlers. Sometimes it's programming reminds me of WCW when they were winning the ratings war with the WWF. Who can't get a kick out of the "Black Machismo" character?

It's simple little things like that that are thrown in to make you realize it's all about fun. There is a certain innocence to it. It's a more pure programming, not a big spectacle like WWE.

I respect that because I remember a time watching WCW Saturday Night (which was in a little studio, not a huge arena) and loving every minute of it because it showcased some really talented wrestlers that could talk good and wrestle even better. It wasn't about a bunch of foolishness and trying to top one sleazy, degrading, stunt with another.

That's what TNA's got. I watched last night as my favorite wrestling faction, the Main Event Mafia, tried to sort out it's dissention among the ranks. The teams two top dogs, Angle and Sting, are at odds. With a match set for next week.

I would like to also commend Kevin Nash on a great backstage promo. He referred to the actual Cosa Nostra and spoke of solving problems by taking someone out to the desert and digging a hole, problem solved. He was very convincing and was dapperly dressed as though he were an actual "wise guy."

I think TNA really has a good thing going with the Main Event Mafia. They are the best faction in the industry, besides Legacy. I think Main Event Mafia all play their parts well. And as a unit they still have a lot to offer the wrestling industry. Because, let's face it, Steiner is still built like a brick shit-house but he doesn't get around as good as he used to.

Last night's TNA Impact climaxed with the Legendary Sting doing what he does best, getting into the head of the opposition. And it showed Angle doing what he does best, getting fired up with that intensity. "Come on!" he screamed as he and Sting's promo reached it’s peak.

Then it was on, the two went at it but where broken up by fellow mobsters Nash and Steiner. Steiner held Angle back and Nash held Sting as Angle, the groups front man, got back on the mic. "Next week on the Impact zone the Main Event Mafia will be here...and I will win your career." At that point, both men jumped back into action with Steiner in between them and Nash throwing his hands up in the air and walking off.

The show went off the air with security and Steiner breaking up the scuffle. This building the heat for next weeks match-up with Sting and Kurt Angle. I can't wait to tune in next week to check out this match-up between two wrestling titans.

That's what I mean by "finding it's groove." TNA has always kept me tuned in. Their action reminds me of what wrestling should be. They also can't go wrong with the Legendary Sting, someone who was not one of Vince McMahon's creations.

I think that the match between Sting and Angle will be a classic encounter. Although it will more than likely end in a DQ or a "schmaz," with the Main Event Mafia running in to break it up. Which will more than likely lead up to a match on pay per view to finally settle the score.

Now the question lingers in my mind: Is this the beginning of the end for the Main Event Mafia? Personally, I hope not. I really like the group and I see them as a vital part of TNA as a unit.

I know one thing, there is a major beef that must be settled between Sting and Angle. And that beef has the fate of the Main Event Mafia looming in the realm of the unknown. Something has to be done. All we can do is tune in next week to see how these events unfold.

As always, this is about you—the wrestling fans. I set up the polls to get your opinion on a red-hot question looming in TNA. Please vote and let your voice be heard on this matter.

How do you feel about TNA in general? Do you think TNA Impact's program quality matches that of the WWE? Where do you see this storyline going? Do you like the Main Event Mafia angle? I'm anxious to here your thoughts on this subject, folks. Please leave a lil' feedback and let your voice be heard on this situation.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

This has been a Ryan Simon article :)

WWE's No Way Out: Paving the Road To Wrestlemania

Ryan Simon — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 02:34:28 -0500

With WWE's momentum picking up speed quick as a runaway train, the Road to Wrestlemania is definitely underway. The storyline possibilities leading up to the 25th Anniversary of "The Grandaddy of them All" are absolutely endless. The road will be officially paved starting this Sunday at No Way Out.

The outcomes of these matches will set the stage for Wrestlemania XXV. Raw had a really solid show this past Monday with Flair returning to much adoration, Jericho's heel heat blazing like an out of control inferno and Randy Orton's star shining bright as ever.

I haven't really watched or followed ECW in a while (since Benoit was still in the game. Yeah, that long). News has broken officially that Teddy Long has signed Christian Cage to join the ECW Roster.

Personally, I think it's a bad move but they'll make it work. I think he should have went to Smackdown to begin a feud with Edge but they will eventually tie up down the road. Christian is a great wrestler so any angle will work for him regardless.

I haven't really kept up with the Smackdown scene either. Although it has some great talent on the roster such as the Undertaker, Edge(WWE Champion), Triple H, Jeff Hardy and the Big Show. A man whose name I just mentioned is Jeff Hardy, a man who has become an enigma in the wrestling world.

I just got wind of this new Hardy vs. Hardy angle and I think it's the best since Flair's "You Lose, You're Fired!" angle. I think WWE is using their heads and saving this little gem for Wrestlemania. Wouldn't it be great to see the two brothers go toe-to-toe in a classic Cain & Abel battle. That will indeed be something to see.

This Sunday at No Way Out the stage will be set for Wrestlemania. I have read various articles and predictions here on B/R on this topic and I found them well thought and intriguing. So I figured I'd throw in my nickel.

The following are my thoughts of what would make for a great No Way Out pay per view and for a phenomenal Wrestlemania where Legends are born. Let's face it, all the major players in the game (besides the Hardy's) on the NWO card will almost definitely be at Wrestlemania.

Now lets go over the lineup and how I feel it could build up the Wrestlemania card.

Shawn Micheals vs. JBL (All or Nothing Match)

Personally, I think the heat is still pretty good on this thing. They should keep it rolling until Wrestlemania. I think HBK should lose this Sunday just to set the stage for a classic at Wrestlemania. Let's face it, wrestling fans, a good rivalry doesn't just end after one match.

I think Micheals and JBL have a good few matches in a heated rivalry.

It can culminate at Wrestlemania in a Last Man Standing Match in which HBK puts his career on the line in order to get his identity back. HBK can shine in that match, no rules, high risk maneuvers and JBL can even get a little juice.

It would prove to be the climax of a great rivalry where HBK can emerge victorious with his "Mr. Wrestlemania" status still in check.

ECW Championship: Jack Swagger (Champion) vs. Finlay

Jack Swagger is an up and comer I don't know to much about. But I do know that Finlay is one tough sonofagun and he deserves to be champion, at least for the time being. I think since Christian is now officially on the roster he should definitely have a little involvement in this Sunday's match.

I hope to see Finlay get the strap. Which would lead up to what I think would be a phenomenal Triple Threat Extreme Rules match at Wrestlemania featuring Christian, Finlay and Swagger for the ECW Championship where Christian emerges victorious.

Elimination Chamber for the WWE Championship feat. Undertaker, Triple H, Big Show, Vladimir Kozlov, Jeff Hardy and Edge (Champion)

Personally, I would like to see Taker get it. And you never know, it might happen. I think that if Jeff Hardy won this Sunday he could have a superb Ladder match with his brother Matt at Wrestlemania.

Otherwise, if 'Taker won I would see him matching up with Triple H for the belt at Wrestlemania and emerging victorious to keep his streak intact.

Or here's one from left field: If Michaels wins this Sunday and ends his run with JBL and Taker wins the belt they can square off at Wrestlemania for the WWE Championship. "Mr. Wrestlemania vs. the Undefeated Wrestlemania record." That would be pure gold. It's hard for me to say who would win that one.

Elimination Chamber for the World Heavyweight Championship feat. Chris Jericho, John Cena (Champion), Rey Mysterio, Jr., Kane, Kofi Kingston, and Mike Knox

Without a single doubt in my mind I believe Cena should be uncrowned before Wrestlemania. Who better to do it than the bona fide hottest heel in wrestling today, Chris Jericho. His heat is so tremendous I feel it is only necessary to have him walk in Wrestlemania with the Heavyweight title.

Flair can't wrestle the guy but he sure can manage the guy that will snatch the title from Jericho. Almost like Harley Race led Vader to numerous WCW World Title Wins just a few years back.

Wrestlemania needs that kind of heat to feed the fire that is Wrestlemania. Who better than to feed that fire than Randy Orton? His charisma and talent are leading his fan response and his character take on a life of it's own.

Which gets to the last match...

Randy Orton vs. Shane-O-Mac (No Holds Barred)

I believe this match will have a really big twist. I think quite possibly Stephanie could turn on Shane and join Legacy or possibly Vince turn on Shane and Stephanie, claiming they brought WWE down and he will usher in the "new era of WWE."

Or it could go in a completely different direction. All of the McMahons might possibly attack and pummel Randy Orton to a bloody pulp. To which the fans would have sympathy for Orton and his face turn that is on the brink will finally happen.

If Orton turns face he'll without a doubt be No. 1 face. Jericho is the No. 1 Heel. That would be the best Wrestlemania match in years, with Orton emerging as Champ. Flair could join Legacy and be Orton's confidant helping him dethrone Jericho of the title.

That would still keep Flair's angle going and it would make more sense for him not to wrestle but to support and aide Orton's quest. There are also great storylines that could be built on continuing the McMahon feud.

A Legacy-McMahon feud/rivalry would be great for business. With Jericho joining the McMahon family as well as a few others.

Once again, this is about you, the wrestling fans. How do you feel about a Jericho/Orton Wrestlemania Match? What are your predictions for Sunday and the Road to Wrestlemania? So please feel free to leave a lil feedback and hit up the polls.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

B/R Exclusive: ASSASSINS E-MAIL REVEALED!!!

Ryan Simon — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:00:14 -0500

First of all, I would like to say I think Joe Burgett is a stand-up guy and it appears that his intentions are in the right place. Having been a part of B/R for less than a week, I have already became a part of the Assassins; a group headed by Burgett. I received the secret e-mail and became a member.

For those of who who aren't members of the Assassins, I'm sure you would like that one simple little question answered:

What are the contents of the "top-secret" e-mail?

Well it goes like this:

First of all, wrestling fans, what you are about to read is the truth, so brace yourselves.

I (Ryan Simon) am not a rat! When someone tells me a secret and I give my word, that is my bond. I will never reveal the contents of the Assassins Creed or any other subject involving "this faction thing." Almost had 'ya, huh? Sorry to get your hopes up, wrestling fans. And Joe, I didn't mean to make you all nervous and stuff, buddy.

But actually, I did. I wanted to show just how much heat this whole faction thing is pulling here on B/R. I haven't been asked yet to participate in this tournament and that is a good thing. I haven't been on B/R for longer than a week so I don't expect to be asked.

Besides, I don't really get it all the way anyway. I know there is the Assassins (heels) and the Beast (faces) and then there is an abundance of writers who choose to keep their dignity and not align themselves with a faction. I respect these writers for their decisions.

I have a lot of respect for Joe Burgetts. He has garnered the top spot here on B/R. How he acquired that spot (good or bad) is of his own doing. It seems that a lot of people knock him for that but the reality is that whatever he has done, right or wrong, he is #1 on the list in the wrestling section.

Statistics speak for themselves.

His ideas are good and I believe that in his heart, his intentions are good. It's all about respect, not just here on B/R but in life. If you can't give respect, you can't receive it. Respect has to be earned.

So, with no hard feelings to any of the parties involved, I would like to announce that as of right now ,I am no longer associated with a faction, with all due respect to Joe and his Assassins.

I feel that as a wrestling journalist I do not want to subject myself to the prejudices that occur here on B/R. I don't want my articles delegated to one specific group. I want everyone to read my articles and share their opinions on the subjects at hand.

I don't want wrestling fans to not read my articles because I am associated with a group they don't like. I'll be damned if I put everything into an article and someone quits reading midway through because they see "This is an Assassin article" at the bottom of the page. That is a form of prejudice that I will no longer subject myself to.

As always, this is about you, the wrestling fans. It is not about whether you're an Assassin, part of the Beast or if you are a "Lone Wolf" like myself. This is a very touchy subject here on B/R and I hope to get your feedback on what you think of this whole "faction thing."

Please hit up the polls and vote and let your voice be heard on the feedback section. This is "our storyline" here on B/R and it's a good one. Please let your voice be heard because it's all about you, wrestling fans, and your opinions.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

This has been a Ryan Simon article.

Flair's Return, Jericho's Heat, Legacy's Dominance, and WWE's Future

Ryan Simon — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:07:07 -0500

First of all, wrestling fans, I would like to say that yesterday was the first Monday since I can't even remember that I actually looked foreward to a WWE Raw show. I even prepped myself for the event by watching the first dvd of the Raw 15th Anniversary 3 DVD Collection.

The first match was from the first Raw. "Nature Boy" Ric Flair loses to Mr. Perfect (RIP) in a "Loser Leaves Town" match.

That set the stage to remind me why I love wrestling. It reminded me of a time in my life when I thought the world would end if I couldn't watch WWF Monday Night Raw. It reminded me that beneath it all I am just a wrestling fan looking to be entertained by these wonderfully gifted athletes.

Last night proved to me that WWE has all the necessary tools to make it through these tough times. "The Man" was definitely back in town.

Last night's Raw was spectacular; it had that vibe again. The fans in the arena were electric knowing that Ric Flair would be returning to the mix. The arena was dark at the opening except for just a few lights.

As the show opened Lillian Garcia announced "Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the 16-time Heavyweight Champion of the World, "Nature Boy" Ric Flair."

The crowd is on their feet cheering loudly and proudly holding various Flair signs up. Most notably the most famous "Woooooooooooooooooooo!" "Naitch" then proceeded to enter the ring and give a short speech to the fans that mirrored the one he said on his farewell on Raw last year.

In mid-sentence "WWE's Hottest Heel" Chris Jericho comes out to a strong, and I mean strong chorus of boos. He proceeds to tell Flair a barrage of disparaging remarks in which he makes reference to the fans not really caring about Flair and that he's just their puppet, completely untrue.

Flair knew good and well that this was just Jericho trying to get under his skin as only he can. Flair shoots back something to the effect of "I have too much respect for myself, Shawn Michaels and the fans to wrestle again. I said I was retiring from the ring, but I will never retire from this business!"

To which the fans went absolutely crazy. Jericho then began to bark orders at Flair to tell the fans he doesn't need them and that he's better than them. At which point Flair cold-cocked Jericho in the jaw. Jericho exited the ring holding his jaw. Flair stayed in the ring, took his jacket off, strutted around and did his thing.

He certainly set the mood for a great Raw.

This one opening incident proved to me that Jericho has possibly the most heat of any WWE competitor in the WWE right now. When Orton came out to do his promo it seemed as though the fan reaction was mixed. He wasn't strongly booed like Jericho. I believe the WWE is trying to push Orton as their top heel, but his fan response is taking a life of it's own.

Almost the same as they crammed Cena down everyone's throats as the next best thing. And then there's Legacy.

Legacy is a very strong heel faction. DiBiase and Rhodes completely owned Cryme Time last night. When I saw Rhodes hit the Crossroads on that poor schmuck last night I knew that was a wrap. DiBiase and Rhodes are extremely gifted in the ring.

They have the intensity and what it takes to be big names in the WWE. They have adapted that "ol' school style" of wrestling that made their fathers famous.

They are truly carrying on the tradition well. And with Orton as their leader they can't go wrong. I strongly believe that we are currently watching men who will be future Hall of Famers (Jericho, Orton, DiBiase and Rhodes).

They are classic wrestlers who have taken it back to the level it needs to be. Not knocking any other wrestlers but these guys are definitely on the forefront.

WWE could build the company around these individuals and usher in a new era of WWEwhich it so desperately needs. I believe that after Wrestlemania they should have some shocking face and heel turns sparking from a few double-crosses. That would really get the momentum going, which it already is.

I think last nights Raw proved that WWE is really heading in the right direction. The show was great, and I bet you the ratings were through the roof because of "you know who."

The Legacy faction is working real well. WWE needed that for a while. I fell asleep right before the Taker/Orton match but I knew that the match would end in DQ due to Legacy. But that's cool, It reminds me of the days when Flair was Champ and the Horsemen would always run in to ensure he never lost his title.

Orton has such a tremendous amount of charisma it's hard to not dig him as a performer. At least that's my opinion on the matter. He is truly the WWE's next mega star.

I see no one else comparing to his mic and in ring skills. Except Jericho, who in my book is the hottest heel right now. It's obvious his heat is hot when he's being attacked by fans who can't discern reality from fiction. He is truly great at what he does.

I'm glad WWE adopted this whole PG rating thing. Before it was just seeing what kind of blood, out of line mish-mash they could come up with to shock the people. You don't need shock value to impress the people. Just good ol' fashioned "Good guy vs. Bad guy" matches that speak for themselves.

If the WWE has a roster of talented performers, they don't need shock value. They just need great wrestlers who do their job, and do it well. Wrestlers that spark emotions within the fan base.

As always, wrestling fans I would like to see how you feel about Raw last night. Were you excited to see Flair? Were you impressed by the shows lineup? Do you think the WWE is going in the right direction? Or do you feel that I left anyone out as people who could lead the WWE back to an era of greatness?

Please hit the polls up and cast your vote. Leave a lil feedback too if you want to. This is definitely a topic I could discuss until the cows come home.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

This has been a Ryan Simon article :)

What Is Going On With Chris Jericho?

Ryan Simon — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 23:19:23 -0500

I can't believe what I just saw! I was reading through some articles here on B/R, and I ran across this Chris Jericho thing. I clicked on a YouTube link and actually watched the footage of these events unfold.

The footage shows Jericho at a British Columbia house show apparently leaving the event. As he goes to leave, his SUV is mobbed by angry fans shouting and cursing. Apparently, one angry fan beat on Jericho's window while he was at a stoplight.

At which point Jericho jumped out of his vehicle, looked at a security guard and said curtly, "This guy right here, get him out of here!" To which the fan replied, "What? What are you gonna do? You're an insult to Canadians, you mother****er!" Then, other angry fans start grabbing at Jericho and pushing on him. He seemed to just look on in amazement. He then shifted his expression to complete seriousness as one female fan gave him a hard shove.

Things start to really escalate, and Jericho tries to get back in his vehicle. It was at that moment that the angry female fan jumped on Jericho's back and, apparently, tried to pull him back out of the vehicle. Jericho's natural reflexes must have kicked in and he turned around and apparently punched the female fan.

It was then that another male fan lunged at Jericho and Jericho pushed him away. "Where's the f***ing cops at around here?" Jericho screamed as he pushed another male down to the ground. Jericho is now surrounded by angry fans and a few measly security guards.

"Do your f***ing job...get this b***h outta here!" Jericho barks at security as he pushes away more fans. Another male fan then comes at Jericho but a security guard gets between them. Jericho then pushes the security guard and the male fan about 10 feet and then down to the ground. One female is overheard saying, "I didn't know he really was an @$$hole." Jericho then fights back through the crowd to his SUV where he screams, "Do your f***ing job!" one last time before he finally gets into his vehicle and pulls off.

I had to pick my jaw up off the ground when I saw this. First of all, to the people involved and anyone else who takes Jericho's heat too seriously and forgets that it's all a work. Jericho is an extremely gifted in ring performer, and he has been building a lot of heat with his brash, cocky attitude. I think he's great at what he does, and I respect him for it. Let's not forget this is a man who is one of the last left who trained in Stu Hart's Dungeon at Hart House in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

I love wrestling, and I am still very passionate about the art of wrestling. Even though, I don't follow it as much as I used to. I have my favorites, and I have my wrestlers that I dislike. When I attend a house show or any show for that matter I don't go hunt down Cena and scream profanities at him and try to provoke a fight with him. Who in their right mind would? C'mon, lets face it, Jericho owned everybody in that incident.

That's what wrestling is lacking right now. The majority of fans feed on stuff like this and provoke these kind of actions. They should really just keep it simple and cheer their favorites and boo the ones they don't. Instead, they are taking it to such an inappropriate level. It shows a lack of respect.

Jericho respects the fans, he's just doing his job. His role right now is of top heel among others. He's playing his role well. He's building heat and that's a good thing. The fans behavior is not good though, in my mind.

Let's get real here, wrestling fans. Papa Shango didn't really put a curse on the Ultimate Warrior back in the day, Mr. McMahon's "Million Dollar Accident" wasn't an accident and Orton doesn't really have WWE by the balls along with his team of "lawyers." It is all a work, folks. It's called story-lines.

It is called sports entertainment for a reason. It is here for us wrestling fans to watch and enjoy while cheering and booing whoever we choose. The line must be drawn between reality and entertainment.

Once again, this is about you the wrestling fans. I have opened up the polls to get your opinions on how you feel about this situation. Do you think the fans were out of line in their actions? Do you think Jericho was out of line? Please hit the polls up and drop a comment with your feelings on this crazy situation.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

- Ryan Simon

This has been an Assassin article.

Upcoming Series on the Biggest Controversy in Wrestling History

Ryan Simon — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 13:44:12 -0500

First of all, I would like to thank all you fellow wrestling fans for reading the past articles and submitting your feedback and votes on the polls. It is greatly appreciated.

It seems as though "Good Ol' JR" is leading the feedback section of the "Who will induct Stone Cold into the HOF?" article. While WWE Chairman Vince McMahon leads the polls in the vote. Also the "Favorite Wrestlemania Moments" has gotten a lot of feedback. With a lot of folks liking the Bret-Owen Wrestlemania X encounter as well as many others.

I was compelled yesterday by an article by another fellow writer. He had the great pleasure of watching "Nature Boy" Ric Flair wrestle his "last match." He is now writing a several part series on his three day experience of the Wrestlemania XXIV Event. It looks to be an interesting read.

I also would like to announce that I am now a proud member of the Assassins group, headed by Joe Burgett. I had the great pleasure of speaking with him and Cam last night on their weekly show "Joe Burgett's Wrestling Report." We touched on a variety of topics. Overall the show was very good.

Joe is the headman of the Assassins; a group that is about respect for your fellow writers. The Assassins Creed is a very productive and positive in a sense. It stands for no trash talk comments to other writers. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and there's the right way to go about things, i.e. "the high road."

I've heard of this trash talk problem going on. I haven't seen any of this on any of my articles and I don't expect to because it's not about that. It's about in-depth discussion about the topics at hand. It's about letting your voice be heard and stating your opinion in a respectful and classy way. Remember, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, right or wrong.

It's also geared to help bring the Wrestling Section of the BleacherReport to the forefront, which is a good thing. We can all band together. Contributor, Editor, Scribe, Mark, whatever. We can band together and bring Wrestling to the forefront where it belongs.

Ok, with that said. As I spoke of before of the Wrestlemania XIV series, it compelled me to ponder the idea of writing a series of my own. I thought about it initially when I first started writing for B/R, but this really spun my wheels. It's in my mind the most historical moment in modern wrestling history. It has always drawn controversy and still does till this day.

It was that cold winter evening in Montreal where it all happened. Why did it go down like that? What led up to it? Who screwed who? These are questions wrestling fans have been asking for years.

I will give my input as well as historical data to back it, to try and answer some of these questions. Also, as usual it would be great to get your opinion and see how you feel, wrestling fans. This is a subject I've always been very passionate about. I hope to share that passion in this upcoming series on the Montreal Screwjob.

I set up the polls once again with a lil question to see how you, the wrestling fans, feel on the matter. Please feel free to answer honestly and leave some feedback if you want to.

That's enough for now, but there's more where that came from.

This has been an Assassin article.

Who Will Induct Stone Cold Into The Hall Of Fame?

Ryan Simon — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 14:59:42 -0500

The WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2009 is being headed my the most hell-raisin' sonofagun Texas ever saw since Terry Funk. I can't think of a more deserving inductee than "the Texas Rattlesnake." He has stayed true to the business and reached a status that not even Hulk Hogan can match.

The "Attitude Era" of WWE was created by the attitude of "Stone Cold." He was just what "Vinny-Mac" needed in his times of desperation with the WWF/WCW Monday Night Wars. It cemented his Legacy and put the WWF back on top.

He brought that certain passion back to wrestling. He gave fans someone to get behind and cheer for. Trudging along his uphill battles with his cocksure walk and head shakin' and if you didn't like it he would "stomp a mud-hole in ya' and walk ya' dry, son!"

Now the major question on the rise is "Who will induct Stone Cold into the Hall of Fame?" It has already been publicly known that Austin requested that "Nature Boy" Ric Flair induct him. He has regarded Flair as being the Greatest of All Time and his hero in the wrestling world. That idea was shot down by WWE Chairman Vince McMahon.

Or was it?

As we all know, Wrestlemania tickets aren't moving that well right now. Tickets to the Hall of Fame, although cheaper, are moving faster than the actual event tickets.

Which turns the focus back to Austin and who will induct him. Flair is making a special appearance on Raw this Monday. I would have thought it would be to announce that he would be inducting Austin into the HOF.

But it can't be that because Flair is Inducting the Legendary Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, who is also part of the HOF Class of 2009. Their rivalry and matches through the years have been gigantic and it's only right that Flair inducts Steamboat.

So who will induct Stone Cold into the Hall of Fame?

I thought of a list of viable candidates and would like to get your feedback on the polls as to who you think should induct "The Texas Rattlesnake" into the Hall of Fame.

The candidates are:

1. "Nature Boy" Ric Flair: In my book, he's still on the list. You never know what this Monday's appearance has to offer. With Wrestlemania's tickets not moving fast enough WWE is subject to change anything around right now.

Even with the Legacy of the Flair/Steamboat feud, he is still a possible candidate. A couple weeks ago, WWE didn't even want to bring Flair back in the picture when Stone Cold requested he induct him. Now Flair will be live Monday night. WWE is grasping at straws right now.

2. WWE Chairman Vince McMahon: This is a very strong possibility. If Bret Hart helped to give birth to Austin's legacy, McMahon helped lead it through it's prime. Their rivalry is one of the greatest in the industry's history.

McMahon played the role of evil promoter out to destroy whoever he didn't care for (which supposedly isn't far from the truth). Austin was the bad ass that bucked the system and shot the bird to the boss. Their rivalry was pure magic. It is very possible that McMahon may be the one to induct Austin.

3. Bret "Hitman" Hart:- It's a long shot but anything is possible. I don't see "Hitman" doing anything involving WWE in the near future but you never know. It is reported that he and Austin are good friends.

After all, Austin inducted Hart in the 2006 Hall of Fame ceremony. It is appropriate because they have an immense respect for one another and the business. They were also great dance partners in the ring together. I would venture to say that Austin had his greatest matches with Bret Hart. "Hitman" definitely passed the torch to Austin before he left the WWF.

4. The Rock: Another long shot but still a possibilty. He is reportedly in the process of making another motion picture. But he could find time for a man who helped him to elevate his status.

Who could forget both of them singing together on Raw, that was truly priceless entertainment at its best. And their classic Wrestlemania 17 encounter. Chances are slim but the possibilities are endless in WWE's effort to make the event a success. They need star-power right now to up the media coverage and push tickets.

This is all about you, the wrestling fans. So if you feel that I left out certain individuals who you feel are viable candidates please leave some feedback and hit the polls up and let me know who you think should induct Austin.

That's all for now, but there's more where that came from.

Wrestlemania: What Are Your Favorite Moments?

Ryan Simon — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:06:19 -0500

To all readers who are wrestling aficionados or Wrestlemania aficionados. I would like to know what your favorite Wrestlemania moments are.

With the upcoming quarter-century anniversary of the "Granddaddy of Them All" sports entertainment, I feel it's only right to delve into the wonderful memories that past Wrestlemania's have given us.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Wrestlemania 13: Bret "Hitman" Hart vs. "Stone Cold" Steve Austin

"The Excellence of Execution" and "The Texas Rattlesnake" were at their peak in this classic encounter. After a long battle, "Hitman" busted Austin open with the timekeeper's bell and synched on the sharpshooter.

Austin's never give up "attitude" shined as he passed out from blood loss and pain. Referee Ken Shamrock of UFC Fame called the match in favor of the "Hitman." This match gave birth to a new era in the WWF.

"Hitman" turned heel on the American fans. And Austin ushered in his era of "attitude"—becoming one of the biggest baby faces that the company had seen since "Hitman" or Hulk Hogan.

Wrestlemania 6: WWF World Heavyweight Champion Hulk Hogan vs. The Ultimate Warrior.

This match has been one of the biggest of all-time in the wrestling business. From a marketing standpoint, here were the two biggest draws as far as merchandise went and they were both baby faces at that. The match was a see-saw battle with Warrior barely squeezing the win out over the Hulkster.

Wrestlemania 3: WWF World Heavyweight Champion Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant

Arguably the Greatest Wrestlemania Moment of All-Time. This is the match that elevated Hogan to Icon status.

It's the match where 93,000 people packed the Pontiac Silverdome simply to see if Hogan could slam the Big Man and he did.

It was in that match that the Big Man passed the torch to Hogan, ushering in the era of "Hulkamania."

Wrestlemania 24 (Career Threatening Match): "Nature Boy" Ric Flair vs. Shawn Micheals

This was as classic as a Wrestlemania match gets. Flair's illustrious career was on the line in this battle of the big-dogs.

Micheals etched out the win with Sweet Chin music as if he had just put an old dog, that he loved, out of its misery.

Flair gave one of the most emotional and classy farewells that the wrestling world had ever seen—proving why he is "the Man."

Wrestlemania 12 (Ironman Match): WWF World Heavyweight Champion Bret "Hitman" Hart vs. "Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Micheals.

The two superstars cut a 60 minute pace that could have only been carried by Flair in the 80's. It was a classic that went into sudden death overtime.

Neither combatant scored a pinfall or submission in the 60 minute time limit. HBK took the belt home that night when he scored Sweet Chin music on the "Hitman."

There's more where that came from, but I want your feedback mainly on here wrestling fans, young and old.

Please answer the polls and leave some feedback because we all know that there are many more wonderful Wrestlemania memories to be posted.

The history behind this event is immense. Thanks.

Bret "The Hitman" Hart: A Pictoral Tribute

Ryan Simon — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 22:24:46 -0500

Bret "Hitman" Hart is hailed as one of the finest ring technicians and Champions of all time. With a 2006 Induction into WWE's Hall of Fame as well as being a 7 time Heavyweight Champion of the World among various other titles and a 23 year career under his belt the Hitman has reached his pinnacle. He held the torch boldly and proudly trough the heyday of wrestling and showed that wrestlers weren't just fakes or phonies, they were artists' with stories to tell. As Bret would say he has always been grateful to have been given a chance to have painted a beautiful portrait that created his mainly WWF based legacy. Although a falling out with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon severly strained their professional and personal relationship following the 1997 Survivor Series in which the now famous "Montreal Screwjob." But more on that later. After that situation Bret relocated to Ted Turner's "rasslin' company" WCW for a whopping $2.5 million a year for three years. At WCW there were too many cheifs and not enough indians. The "Hitman" wasn't used properly for the first year or so there. After a while his momentum finally began to pick up speed with a big WCW World Heavyweight Title win over Chris Benoit in Toronto for WCW's Mayhem in a tournament final. He was headlining WCW's biggest pay per view of the year. The pay per view was Starrcade and he was going in as WCW World Heavyweight Champion against WCW's "Franchise" Bill Goldberg. Little did he know a stiff kick in that match would cost him his career. But more on that later.

Begin Slideshow

What Are Ric Flair and WWE's Intentions On Raw/Wrestlemania Appearances?

Ryan Simon — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:23:07 -0500

He's a Jet-Flying, Limousine-Ridin', Kiss-Stealin', Wheelin'-Dealin', Skirt-Chasin', Whiskey-Drinkin' Son-of-a-gun. And Ric Flair will be live next Monday for WWE's RAW.

This announcement comes almost a year after his heart-felt Goodbye on Raw following his classic Wrestlemania 24 match-up with the "Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels. What a classic, a fitting end for "Naitch."

He ended it like a true Legend. He had a Legendary send off. He was inducted in the WWE Hall of Fame and had one of his best matches in years. It was an emotional moment as Flair waved Thank You to his long-adoring fans and his family with his eyes filled with tears. It doesn't get more touching than that.

Then ol' Naitch is at it again last summer with a surprise appearance and everyone's hopes getting up over him possibly taking brash and cocky Chris Jericho to school one last time.

I would have loved to have seen Flair take Jericho to the woodshed in the parking lot.That would have been great! Instead WWE Chairman Vince McMahon came and ushered Flair out with his yuk-yuk style; "Good to see ya, Ric. We'll be in touch." Give me a break!

Now here we are. The announcement has been made that Flair will appear next week on Raw, possibly leading up to a Wrestlemania angle. Not possibly, almost officially! In the words of "Good Ol' JR" Jim Ross, "How can you not have the greatest wrestler of all-time at the 25th anniversary of the biggest event in the wrestling industry?"

True Indeed. Flair is the greatest of all-time without a doubt! Hogan was the best from a marketing standpoint, Bret "Hitman" Hart was the greatest technician of all-time (hence, "Excellence of Execution") but Flair's promos and timeless style has lived on for more than three decades and it's still fresh and real wrestling fans love, appreciate, and respect "Naitch" because they know deep down that he truly is the Man, not Hogan.

"Naitch" works the mic like no other STILL! It will be great to see him walk that aisle again and style and profile as only he can. But there's one question lingering:

Where is this leading to?

Is Flair coming back to the squared-circle? Personally, I hope not. I have watched Ric Flair walk that aisle all my life and when the time came for his match with HBK last year, everyone knew what was coming.

That's why it was so fitting and touching. It was such a great ending to such an illustrious career. The best way I've seen anyone retire in the wrestling business. I couldn't even tell you who headed the main event at WM24 because that Wrestlemania belonged to the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair.

It was his chance to say goodbye gracefully while he still had his faculties and was still able to perform at a higher peak than some of the young up-and-comers. That match will go down as one of the greatest wrestling matches of all-time. There's not too much that can top that send off and there are very few angles that will match that caliber if Flair were to ever lace up his boots again.

There are a few angles that I think would work to further the Legacy of the "Nature Boy." What bigger draw than Flair vs. Hogan to decide who really is "the greatest of all-time" with Flair prevailing and proving once and for all that he is the Man, not Hogan?

But Hogan would probably never go for that finish—that's his style. He never was one of the boys, always refusing to put over younger and more deserving talent. Flair, the exact opposite.

It's the old school way of "you do what's right for the business and what the business calls for." That's what has afforded Flair the luxury of calling himself 16-time World Heavyweight Champion.

Speaking of which, another possibly good angle worthy of Flair lacing up his boots again is one more "Flair for the Gold" and furthering his unmarked record to a 17-time World Heavyweight Champion. I believe he and Triple H or HBK could pull that run off well and make it really believable.

Those angles would really work well but I'm probably just getting my hopes up.

Otherwise, I think Flair should stay retired. Even though he does have continued heat with Jericho, who is begging to be made an example of. But I believe that should be settled with some sort of back alley brawl or a fight in the parking lot.

That's not an angle worthy enough of Flair to lace up his boots again almost a year after his retirement. I believe Flair was brought into the angle as a savior to the Jericho/Mickey Rourke situation which reached its embarrassing culmination on CNN's Larry King Live.

That supposed match was shot down when Rourke was nominated for an Oscar for his compelling role in "The Wrestler." He backed out of the supposed match fearing it would affect his run for an Academy Award. But he, along with Flair will be involved in Wrestlemania 25, more than likely involved in an angle with Jericho.

I feel that both men should take the high road and not be involved in an actual match but possibly getting into a scuffle ending up with Flair locking Jericho in the Figure-Four Leg Lock as Rourke looks on in amusement. "Naitch" can do all that without messing up his suit, or his legacy.

WWE could also build a great post-Wrestlemania storyline revolving around Flair returning but not as an active competitor. He always adds excitement to a show whether he's wrestling or not. All he's gotta do is walk that aisle and style and profile as only he can.

WWE is really lacking a super-group right now and they need someone of Flair's caliber to still be in the mix and bring another great super-group such as the IV Horsemen or Evolution back to the forefront.

That's what wrestling is lacking right now. Flair should still be involved but shouldn't lace up his boots unless it will add more diamonds to his crown.

Otherwise, he should call up "Double A" and a few more of the boys and show the WWE and Chris Jericho whose back in town. And show 'em how it's done Horsemen style. But that's just my opinion, and there's more where that came from.