Bleacher Report - Pro Wrestling

What TNA Is Doing Right

Steven Ransiear — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:03:14 -0500

So often we like to bash TNA for not doing what we think they should be.

It's easy because we want them to succeed so badly, that when they make a poor decision, we slide right into jumping on them for it.

When TNA started to become WWE-light, it was a horrible step down and left a bad taste in a lot of the fans' mouths. Cries of near-the-end WCW started lighting up message boards left and right.

Thankfully, over the past few months or so, it seems like the ship has righted itself.

TNA's last PPV, Turning Point 2009 , was one of the best I've seen them put on in quite some time. I'll be using that show as a reference throughout because it's a great example of so many of the great things TNA is doing.

So let's make a change and talk about what TNA is doing right these days.

Before I get into it, I want to be completely honest. Last year, I was in Orlando and attended an iMPACT! television taping. It was by and far the worst live wrestling event I've attended. Because of that I haven't been too high on TNA for about a year now.

But I wouldn't be talking about them if they hadn't done something to change my mind. Believe me, my mind is changed about TNA heading into 2010.

I left that taping glad that I didn't pay any money to get in. It was great to see how a TV taping works with all the pyro and stuff you don't get at house shows.

Not to mention it was awesome to see my favorite childhood wrestler, Kevin Nash.

Unfortunately, TNA burned the crowd out quickly and executed so many things with misguidance. When I watched the show the following week, it had clearly translated to TV. Horribly convoluted storylines peppered the show, and frankly, I stopped caring about TNA in general.

Now, one thing that's become apparent with me is that those problems only seem to extend to the TV tapings. Those crowds are full of people at Universal on vacation, not a bunch of rabid wrestling fans.

The PPVs taped in Orlando, like Turning Point 2009 , are full of those wrestling fans. You actually have to pay to attend, so it weeds out those vacationers.

The atmosphere there for a big PPV show really comes across well on TV. The crowd was into it, thus getting the viewer into it. The total opposite of the crowd I was a part of for the iMPACT! taping.

Chants and big pops for every match made it a very enjoyable PPV to watch. This is something the WWE can't do because of the massive crowds they attract. Sure, TNA wants the big crowds, but for now, what they have at the iMPACT! zone works.

Moving on from the live atmosphere, let's look inside the ring.

Lately TNA has done the best thing possible and moved the focus away from aging veterans at the top. This past PPV, we saw a World Title match with young guys who can go like few can in the ring.

The Joe, Daniels, and AJ three-way was a fantastic contest that is a great counter to what the WWE offers in many of their PPV World Title matches.

Not only did we see a great main event, but also a great co-main event. Desmond Wolfe showed why he belongs at the top of the card against a huge name like Kurt Angle. Sure he lost, but I don't buy him any less as a serious threat towards Angle. He's got "future champion" written all over him at this point.

The match was structured to make neither man look weak. Instead, we got a fantastic back and forth competitive match. This feud between Angle and Wolfe seems to be on solid footing, giving us something to look forward to.

This is very unlike the WWE style, where a newcomer gets a chance against a HHH or John Cena.

Typically, in that situation, you'll see a burial that pushes the newcomer down in the ranks and in the eyes of the fans. You can lose and maintain your momentum, but you can also lose and be made to look like you don't even belong inside a wrestling ring.

The X Division even had a nice showing on the card. Usually we get multi-man matches or some sort of tag-team bout. Instead, we get a nice singles match for the title.

Red and Homicide went out there and put on a great opener. It got the fans ready, and did a fantastic job of showing that TNA puts on competitive matches. If it was your first time watching a TNA PPV, this was a pretty good introduction.

Getting away from Turning Point 2009 , I want to talk about something TNA does in general with PPVs. It's a small detail that probably doesn't provoke a thought from most, but really gets me excited.

It's the fact that TNA gives their big-time matches a big-time feel. They get special video packages, special introductions, the whole nine yards.

There is nothing like the pre-bout activities in a big-time boxing match or even an MMA bout, and TNA does a great duplication of that.

Sure Jeremy Borash is no Michael or Bruce Buffer, but it's something we don't see anywhere else right now. It's a unique thing, however small, that separates TNA from its competition.

One thing that really caught my eye during Turning Point were the on-screen graphics they used to set up each match. This is something we've seen from most promotions, but TNA put a nice little twist on it.

Each wrestler had their height, weight, and signature move attached. Small details, but it's the small things that, when put together, make something special.

Finally, I want to praise TNA on how they set up their feuds.

Now I'm not deeply invested in some of what they have going on, but from what I can see, every rivalry is centered around something wrestling-related. This isn't Bossman stealing Al Snow's dog—even though that gave us some great moments.

No, TNA seems to be putting the emphasis on title belts, and seeing who the better man or woman is.

That's what I want to see in wrestling.

Most times the belts are an afterthought. Sure, they're just props, but that's still what sticks out in the mind of a fan. They want to see who's on top. TNA really hits the nail on the head with this.

Of course, all of this might be for naught, as Team Hogan arrives next year.

With them comes a lot of questions and uncertainty. If they do take away everything that has made TNA great in late 2009, I guess we'll just have to chaulk it up to bad luck.

Until then, though, check out the next iMPACT! Sit back and don't be overcritical. It's just wrestling, after all.

Thanks for reading and as always, please drop a comment below.

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Could AJ Styles Be Successful in The WWE?

Chris Mueller AKA The most interesting man in the world — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:53:36 -0500

AJ Styles has been one of the most talked about names in pro wrestling for a few years now. He has been working with TNA (Total Non-Stop Action Wrestling) since its inception as well as ROH (Ring of Honor Wrestling) and NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling). He is considered by many as one of the top stars in the world today.

Yet he has never stepped foot in the WWE. Thats right, one of the top guys in the world has never been a WWE superstar. He wrestled on Velocity but never under contract(Thanks to the loyal BR community for pointing out my mistake) Only a few of the guys who have reached the same level as AJ, can say they did it without the WWE. Sting is the only one who comes to mind who is still active and can say the same thing.

AJ has been known for his high flying innovative moves since he first appeared on TNA's weekly PPV events back when they first got started. Sometimes it seems as if he can hit anyone from anywhere with any move;he's that good.

Since TNA started bringing in bigger names like Nash, Christian, Angle and Lashley, one guy from the original crew has stood toe to toe with all them; AJ.

His matches with Kurt Angle have been match of the year candidates and his recent match with Joe and Daniels proved he is one of the best in the business at making a match exciting.

AJ styles has played the heel, the face, the dumb heel, the anti-hero face, and he does them all well. His mic skills may have a little to be desired, but when he is going back and forth with someone he pulls it off.

Would AJ be successful in the WWE? Yes he would. Would he be a world champion? I don't know. Vince isn't high on people who weren't established in the WWE and has a reputation of using them poorly. I am speaking about all the acquisitions from WCW like DDP and Booker T. Other than Booker's one title reign, he was used way below his talent in my opinion.

So here's hoping that AJ Styles stays in TNA and makes it a better company.

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Can WWE's Christian Carry a Major Brand As the Top Face?

Chris Mueller AKA The most interesting man in the world — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:53:24 -0500

First off, let me clarify the title a little bit. I am speaking mainly of Raw and Smackdown when I say major brand, no disrespect to ECW, the title would have been too long if I had said both Raw and Smackdown. Anyways, to the point.

Christian has undoubtedly made an impact since returning to the WWE. He is the first person to be a two-time ECW champion since the brands re-imaging. I'm not counting Lashley since his second reign was not what I would call "legit." He is easily the most popular wrestler on the ECW brand right now and he is doing great as the face of ECW.

One has to wonder though, would he be able to step up with guys like Randy Orton, John Cena, Undertaker and his storyline brother Edge?

I for one say, yes he can. Christian is one of those guys who will get a great match out of anybody, even guys who are just plain horrible in the ring. He made Zack Ryder a better wrestler during their few matches. This, along with the fact that he has won many different titles in the WWE, makes him a perfect contender for the main event scene.

Christian has gained a lot of praise since returning to the WWE for upping his game way beyond that of his first run. His mic skills are better, his in-ring story telling is much better, and his fan response is just insane sometimes.

His reactions sometimes remind me of the huge pops Jeff Hardy was getting. All these things make him primed for a shot at a world title.

Christian has been a trend setter in the WWE, having competed in countless ladder and TLC matches, he has excited crowds world wide. He has history with many of WWE's top guys like Jericho, Edge, Cena and Matt Hardy.

His match with Jericho on ECW was one of the best matches I've seen on TV this year. He could be a breath of fresh air to the world title picture, just like Jeff Hardy was when he was brought up to the main event scene, the same can be said for Punk.

Obviously people want to see Christian either team up with or feud with Edge when he returns from his Achilles injury, but those seem too obvious to me for WWE to do at this point.

I see Edge feuding with Jericho when he returns, unless Jericho is injured before then. I would like to see Christian thrown into the mix on Raw with Orton, Cena and DX. He has history with Cena and has been around long enough to deserve respect from DX, but an Orton/Christian feud would be the best.

These two guys have so much potential and skill that putting them together would produce only high quality matches. I think Christian would actually cause Orton to step up his game a little bit.

Other than HBK, Orton has been facing guys like Cena, HHH and well I guess that's it, for some time now. Having him face Kofi right now is a great move and hopefully they take this storyline between them a little longer, but I think Christian and Orton could put on a great program for months.

Another person Christian could face off with for the World title is CM Punk. Punk faced Christian in a tag team match this week on ECW and they had decent chemistry from what I could see. This accompanied with the fact that they have a similar build and style, they could tear the roof off some places.

I think Christian will lose the ECW belt and then get drafted to either Raw or Smackdown within three months, then hopefully he gets the push he deserves.

So to answer my own question, yes I do believe Christian could carry a brand. He has the experience, skill and fan response to be one of the top faces of the WWE.

What do you think?

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WWE Survivor Series 2009 Prediction Competition

Hayley-L Graham — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:37:31 -0500

The nights are getting darker, the days are getting colder, and the winter season is approaching. It can't be anything but time for the annual Autumn extravaganza known as Survivor Series!

With three traditional elimination matches, as well as two main event triple-threat bouts, it's easy to see that the events of Sunday night will definitely affect Raw, Smackdown, and ECW in a big way.

With Kofi Kingston getting his opportunity to stand toe-to-toe with Randy Orton, will the "Viper" reign supreme, or will a little "Boom, Boom, Boom!" mean a big win?

With both Jerishow and DX being in separate triple threats against Undertaker and John Cena respectively, will there be the opportunity to see a partnership break down in the quest for gold?

Well, all you Bleacher Creatures out there can say so for yourselves, as it is time for the Survivor Series prediction competition!

For all the rules and previous winners, please check here .

As always, each match will have a certain number of points attached to it, ranging from one to three, and the way to get points is to make correct predictions!

If there are any disputes regarding the allocation of points, please let me know when making your predictions.

Now then, with formalities over, let's go onto the matches!

Chris Jericho vs Big Show vs The Undertaker (c) : World Heavyweight title (3)

Triple H vs Shawn Michaels vs John Cena (c): WWE title (3)

Team Kingston vs Team Orton: Elimination match (3)

Team Morrison vs Team Miz: Elimination match (2)

Team Michelle vs Team Mickie: Elimination match (1)

Batista vs Rey Mysterio: (2)

With a wide range of possibilities, it's going to require some expert prediction skills to be in with a chance of entering the 100 percent club, and a lot of luck to avoid the dreaded zero points.

Please leave your predictions as stand alone comments below, and you have until the PPV starts on Sunday to submit your answers.

Good luck, and happy guessing!

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"Psycho" Sid Vicious Headed To TNA Wrestling

Joe Burgett — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:17:10 -0500

It is being reported from Psycho Sid Promotions today that he will be heading to TNA Wrestling. He has been making his way around the Indy scene for a little while now, and was actually rumored to be going to the WWE about a year ago.

However, when asked if he could "get clean" to work for the WWE by officials, Sid said no. Sid has been on the juice and has admitted to such. TNA has interest in any old wrestling name, so it's obvious that they would take him. And they could care less if he is on anything as they don't have a Wellness Policy similar to the WWE.

Here is the announcement from Psycho Sid Promotions, an entity affiliated with Sid:

"The Return of the Master and Ruler of the World "Psycho" Sid Vicious is coming to TNA Wrestling! Spike TV Thursday Nights! We warned WWE that this would Happen. Never say Never! Stay Tuned—Psycho Sid Promotions"

Many are speculating that he is not coming in long term, but only for Jay Lethal's open challenge to any Wrestling Legend.

Others are saying that he would debut doing that, but would stick around and wrestle more with the company.

Also, they warned the WWE that this would happen?

Should the WWE really be hurt by this? I mean Sid was ok back in the day, but now he is pretty washed up. The dude can barely go in the ring now from what I have seen, and it is not a wonder he has not been put in the WWE Hall of Fame.

The WWE didn't really need him when he was there, neither did WCW when he was there. And they don't need him today.

I have to admit I was never the biggest fan of the guy, so this is seen through the eyes of a guy who could care less about Sid.

The guy is a washed up has been who would like to think he can still go in the ring with the likes of Styles, Daniels, and others. However, the people who are actually watching him know full well this is not fact, and that he is just as good as I am in the ring.

And I am not good in the ring, as I am not even a wrestler. I know I know, you are all surprised by this turn of events.

This is not massive news that will change the wrestling world as we know it. Its as big as seeing Kenny Omega jump ship. Which is not a huge story unless you are a big ROH fan. He is not leaving to let you know, it was just an example.

I feel that TNA and Sid are the only ones really excited to see him come in. It will not help ratings.

Lets hope this is not what the Hogan signing did for the promotion. More and more washed up has beens? Can't say TNA is really taking off guys. It's a shame too, as they have a lot of talent there that gets over looked so much.

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MvM: The Follower of the Standard and Beyond

AkD — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:27:18 -0500

What Maniac?

-Most Underrated Wrestler (2005-2007)
-Ranked No. 9 on PWI's Top 500 Wrestlers (2005)
-Undefeated against Chris Jericho in one-on-one competition
-Three Clean wins over Triple H
-Three-time Intercontinental Champion (Ranked No. 10 all-time for number of total days with belt: 354)
-Three-time Tag Team Champion (OVW w/ Brock Lesnar)
-Two-time WWE Tag Team Champion (w/ Charlie Haas)
-U.S. Champion/Longest running champion of 2008
-Tag Team of the Year (2003 w/ Haas)
-Retained WWE Tag Titles at Wrestlemnania XIX w/Haas
-Money in the Bank Pioneer
-Future WWE/World Heavyweight champ

The above milestones are those of Shelton Albert Benjamin. Benjamin's middle name is my first name. Yes folks, AkD's first name is Albert. It is really a coincidence and It makes me believe more and more that I was meant to be a supporter, meant to be a believer of the standard, meant to be the preacher of "Ain't No Stopping Me!" The above milestones are also things that I've memorized and can recite them on command, I know these before knowing the meanings of certain terms.

I am athletically gifted like the Gold Standard, but not to the same extent. I cannot do his front and back flips, nor his overcastle (also called blockbuster) from the ring ropes. I do have great balance, speed, hangtime, and strength. Whatever show Benjamin is on is the best show in my eyes, and I think I can prove it!

Oh yeah, I might be paranoid, but let's give it a try, shall we?! Oh yes, here we go! SmackDown in 2002-2004 owned RAW in 2002-2004, right? We're talking Eddie Guerrero, Kurt Angle, Brock Lesnar, The Undertaker, Rob Van Dam, and a great tag team division which included Too Cool, APA, The Bashams, and The World's Greatest Tag Team!

How we can also forget JBL's epic WWE title reign!

Benjamin goes to RAW and has the longest Intercontinental title reign of the 21st century. That is no exaggeration, as it still stands today. His first IC title reign lasted 244 days, the most since The Rock in 1997! Those are cold, HARD FACTS, unlike Miz and Morrison saying they were the greatest tag team of the 21st century.

Pssshhh, they couldn't even get the nod at Wrestlemania XXV against the Colons! in a dark match! Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas were the best tag team of the 21st century having the best tag team title defense at a Wrestlemania so far for the century.

Chris Benoit, Triple H, and Shawn Michaels also had one of the greatest triple threat matches off all time at Wrestlemania XX, before it got dragged down where the match is today.

I'm only one of few people who still remembers that Chris Jericho has never defeated Shelton Benjamin. I love Benjamin so much I took this picture with my friend's camera while walking over the Brooklyn Bridge! I've become a member and have work published on Shelton-Benjamin.net .

I met the Hart Dynasty downtown, but all I could think about was meeting Shelton Benjamin. If I had more time to speak with them, I would have told them to get a good word in for the Gold Standard, but they're far off worse in mic card hell with Cryme Tyme! I have abandoned Randy Orton for Shelton Benjamin because there's simply not enough room for that much loyalty.

Seeing Benjamin retain the WWE Tag Titles at Wrestlemania XIX was so special because Rock and Austin battled for the last time, Triple H took on Booker T, Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle put on one hell of a match, and the same goes for Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels that night.

Whatever Shelton Benjamin is a part of, it's gold! ECW is the top brand right now. Before you flip your lids, take a look at Christian's epic ECW title reign, the peeps are going crazy, he's had it since July and Taker, Punk, Jeff Hardy, Cena, Triple H, or Orton can't say the same.

No one cares about the C brand anyway, right?! Of course! There's some more social construction for you. I'm still waiting for Shelton Benjamin to become ECW champion, and apparently so is the WWE Universe in the longest-running thread since Shelton arrived in the land of extreme on June 28th. Nearly five months later, it goes on, because Benjamin will do it and I and all those people believe it.

How many other people can say that they've chased Shelton Benjamin, let alone any other WWE superstar, who was in a car down 34th street off of Madison Square Garden in New York City? Layla El was smoking hot in the backseat, but I didn't care about her! She didn't exist, only Benjamin did. I even passed by Arn Anderson and didn't care! I went through traffic and construction without regard for anyone else's life and maybe my own.

Only one of my five POTDs wasn't about or didn't include Shelton Benjamin.

Oscillating 2 & 3 ...and you can bet on the fourth focusing on Benjamin finally becoming a world champion.

He's the reason why I still am a fan of wrestling, he's the reason why I watch ECW. Before he was drafted again to the land of extreme, I barely watched it at all, and now I'm fully behind the Tuesday night show and all of its stars.

I've argued for him night and day and will go against anyone, even if they're nonsensical babbling idiots. If I have a son, I'm naming him Shelton or Benjamin. I'll pass on my Shelton Benjamin action figures to him along with the World Heavyweight Championship he has around his waist! I'm apart of every Shelton Benjamin fan page on Facebook, rooting him on with the rest of the followers of the standard.

"Ain't No Stopping Me" by Axel is my hype song and is also Shelton Benjamin's theme song. Whenever I'm playing sports or playing video games, that song is playing in the background or in my surround sound stereo headset.

Did you know Benjamin is a multiple OVW tag champion with Brock Lesnar?

He was on his way to the 2000 Olympics, but he gave it all up to wrestle for the WWE. He and Charlie Haas put on clinics in the ring, out-shining everyone. I was truly mesmerized and still am to this day. Seven years later, and I'm a bigger supporter than ever before.

He was dubbed the Gold Standard and striker dubbed him WWE's Grand Design because he simply is. He is virtually a template for every type of wrestler and it is that very reason why he is still around today. Benjamin can fly like Jeff Hardy, can get technical like Kurt Angle, can slam like a powerhouse, and can deliver a superkick like Shawn Michaels.

I knew he'd go down as one of the greatest after having the TV Match of year in 2005 (Part 1 & 2 ). I get giddy every time I watch it; he turned the Sweet Chin Music from a superkick to a inhumane kick. The most underrated wrestler in the WWE and yet it is known he's one of the best. What gives?

Randy Orton himself said Benjamin should be a world champ! Where's the charisma? Right here .

Once in history class I was asked to speak on Benjamin Franklin and I started off my speech by saying, "Shelton Benjamin was one of our great founding fathers." During gym class, when I was in middle school, I T-Bone suplexed a kid and got suspended for a day because he was crying, but I didn't care! No one bad talks Shelton Benjamin and gets away on my watch! He is the pioneer of the MITB match, him winning it would be epic, he's owned in every one he was in and has done much more than just spots.

My computer background is Shelton Benjamin, my laptop background is Shelton Benjamin, my Zune wallpaper is Shelton Benjamin, and the same goes for my Xbox 360 dashboard wallpaper. I and other followers of the standard have set out all across the web and country to represent the Gold Standard in anyway we can!

Being a Benjamin fanatic is a gift and a curse. We'll always get pounded into the ground for Benjamin not becoming a main eventer or having a lack of charisma, but we can appreciate what he's done and continue to strive for him to gain one of the three world titles and yeah, ECW counts as one, even if you say it doesn't. He had his bandwagon back in '04, but the true fans stayed with the standard when the going got tough.

After starting out the year with a horrendous win/loss ratio putting over the likes of R-Truth and John Morrison, Benjamin now finds himself safe and sound in the land of extreme, only racking up one loss in the last five months. Before all of that, he was the longest-reigning champion of 2008 as the U.S. Champ; he's only gone one year without holding gold in the WWE. He currently is earning votes for the Power 25; keep your eyes on the prize folks, the P25 is always the push foreshadower.

There were truly many up and down moments in wrestling, but if Shelton Benjamin were to win the WWE or WHC title (or even the ECW), it'll be the greatest wrestling moment I've ever experienced. Until that happens, I'll continue to argue, defend, debate, scream, smile, and cheer for the WWE's Grand Design.

Call me nuts, but you'll see in due time.

The Real Deal

This MvM is straight nonsense, I don't have to prove anything to anyone because it is known how much I'm a fan of Benjamin. Any person, any idiot, any know-it-all, screw them. The folks who go "poor Shelton," "I really like Shelton," or "I don't know why he hasn't gotten the push blah blah," aren't fans in my eyes; if they were they'd stop the sob stories and shut the hell up. For all the hype about "THE FUTURE," everyone sure seems content on revisiting the past.

There aren't any Benjamin fans here, there aren't any believers here, there is no B/R Maniac or Maniac vs. Maniac, there is only I, the follower of the standard. Outside of the few that actually support the WWE's Grand Design (except for a few), the rest of you can get the hell off my boat and take your "I don't why...," "I feel sorry...," and "I wish he..." stories with you.

The rest can try and prove that they are the biggest maniac, but I could care less, because my loyalty and faith in Benjamin eclipses the feeble attempts of everyone else trying to win this contest.

Why write this if I don't care? Just to show the loyalty and to tell off the folks who believe they are supporters or believers. Benjamin fans, like other fans, don't dwell on the sob stories or what the big guys want of him; we cheer, we root, we support, and we look ahead.

The Great Chase!

Keeping the crusade strong, Ak out.

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Randy Orton Got the Boom Boom Boom from Kofi Kingston

lee raydean — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:34:13 -0500

Randy Orton ought to watch his back more than he did on RAW this week. He got his lights knocked out during an unofficial match,

It all began when Hall of Famer and host Rowdy Roddy Piper came out to the ring. Shortly after his arrival, Mr. McMahon came down to the ring also. We all know there is no love lost between the two of them.

After some smack talk between the two, Roddy Piper challenged Vince to a match, bring him out of retirement (McMahon announced his retirement from competition, that same night.)

When the time came for the McMahon/Piper match, Roddy came out, but instead of Vince coming out, Randy "the Legend Killer" Orton instead.

There is history between Piper and Orton because of the rivalries that Roddy had with Randy's father, cowboy Bob Orton.

Roddy didn't understand why Orton came out instead of McMahon. Randy had that psychotic glaze in his eyes. There was a confrontation but before it went too far, someone jumped into the ring and went after Orton.

That someone happened to be Orton's latest rival, Kof do him any good.i Kingston. He tore Randy up from one end of the arena to the next. Randy did get a few shots in but it didn't do him any good.

I've never seen Orton get whipped that bad. John Cena has never tortured Randy like Kofi Kingston did. That was the beating that could be heard all over NYC and surrounding areas.

This street fight was out of control. Security thought they had the two subdued, but Kingston would not give up. He fought to get loose and went after Orton again.

The crowd was in a frenzy as they watched the psychotic one get pummeled. I never seen this side of Kofi, I don't think anyone has.

When it was all said and done, Orton was laying on a table that was crushed underneath him. The same table that Kofi put him through.

Fans were chanting all throughout the Madison Square Garden Arena. To me this was the highlight of the show. The triple threat tagteam war that consisted of three tagteams, was good also but what happened between Orton and Kingston was totally unexpected.

Where was Legacy at? Why didn't they come to Randy's aide? All I can say is that I think Orton found his match. And that my friends, is Kofi Kingston! That was the night that NYC could hear boom boom boom.

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ROH Tag Team Stars Jay and Mark Briscoe Headed to the WWE?

Joe Burgett — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:42:33 -0500

Mark and Jay Briscoe—The Briscoe Brothers. In my opinion, they are one of the best Indy tag teams out there today. They are currently under contract with ROH but wrestle both there and in Pro Wrestling Noah, as well as Full Impact Pro.

ROH gives them the opportunity to wrestle other places, similar to TNA. And of course they take full advantage of it. However, most of their time is spent inside an ROH ring. They are a tremendous team to watch, and it is obvious places like TNA and the WWE have noticed them.

Since ROH arrived on HDNet and the Briscoes finally made their much-anticipated debut together, the WWE has had an interest in getting them on its roster. Which is why last night, before the ECW/SmackDown tapings, they had something called an informal tryout.

Basically this means that the WWE brass will not offer them a contract or anything just yet. They basically wanted to observe the team and decide if they want them or not.

ROH was nice enough to give permission to do the tryout when WWE extended the invitation. They have been known to do that for others, so it is only right in my book.

Also, ROH cares about the futures of its wrestlers, and why burn any bridges? They could probably help you out later on.

The WWE desperately needs help in the tag team department. While Jerishow and The Hart Dynasty, as well as Legacy, are good teams, they are not going to help out a tag division and get up there with the likes of TNA.

It also seems that the WWE wants to use Chris Jericho and Big Show in the singles department more and more. Sure, they wrestle with each other, but they are both in the World Heavyweight Title match at Survivor Series.

They are not really the kind of people you want holding the Undisputed Tag Titles, mainly because, while they are good as the tag champs, they are better in singles.

The Briscoes could really be a boost to the tag division. They are proven champions too, so they could hold the Undisputed Tag Titles proudly.

They are 14-time tag team champions (five with ROH) in their independent careers. And they did well with the titles. On their fourth reign, they became the longest-reigning ROH Tag Team Champions too. In ROH they were money makers as the champs, and the WWE loves money of course.

I didn't see the tryout match, so I don't know how they both did. But, if they are as good as we have seen them be, then it's obvious the WWE will sign the team.

Now, because they are under contract with ROH, they cannot sign with the WWE yet. However, a tryout before a contract is up is not uncommon between ROH and the WWE. In fact, Bryan Danielson had a tryout with the WWE earlier this year while still under his ROH contract, and when it expired, he signed on with the WWE.

This is most likely what will happen with the Briscoes. However, ROH has been known to let talent out of their contracts early to leave for TNA or the WWE. So, the Briscoes could be able to leave ROH and go to the WWE if the WWE offers a deal and ROH feels it doesn't need the Briscoes enough for them to finish out their contracts with the company.

I don't see ROH letting them out of their current deals. Which means we will have to wait for their deals to expire before we can see them on WWE TV. I also am not sure when their contracts end, either, so I can't give you a timetable on when they will be there, sorry to say.

By the way, Becky Bayless, who has worked for both ROH and SHIMMER, also had a tryout at last night's Smackdown/ECW tapings. It would be interesting to see her in the WWE.

What do you think of the Briscoes joining the WWE? Good or bad move for the duo?

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WWE Superstars: What Do You Want for Christmas?

Rodney Southern — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:35:47 -0500

With the holiday season right around the corner, I thought it might be a good idea to give out a few WWE Christmas presents. The WWE superstars all have some little something that is missing, and this is the perfect time to fix whatever flaws they may have.

Leave it to Santa Southern here to set things straight. We will have the WWE back on it's feet in no time.

John Cena - Ah, the great John Cena. What could Cena possibly be given that the WWE does not already bestow upon him? I have the perfect gift in mind. For Mr. Cena I give a heel turn.

Not just any heel turn either. Cena should know that this means that his fans will now be out of their training bras, and likely will not sport acne, but at least the grown ups will like him again (Or at least won't mind hating him).

Triple H - I have just the gift in mind for Triple H. For the Game I give the need to lose. With his 600 World Title reigns, the power of the Game will put over some of the young talent in the WWE big time.

While I am at it, I think I will instill in him the brain of Ric Flair. That way he will understand that without high powered opponents, legendary status will not follow (What would have happened had Flair not put over Ricky Steamboat back in the day?).

Hornswoggle - For the little green man, I give a starting position as the quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. Why not? It won't make any difference.

Mickie James - For Mickie I give a great big hug. That is really for my benefit but what the hell.

The Undertaker - For the Undertaker I give a return to his American Badass gimmick. I might be the only one that misses it, but these are my presents.

Kane - For Kane I bring back the mask. I can't take that mug week after week. He does not seem mean. He just seems ugly.

Rey Mysterio Jr.- Rey gets the best gift of all. A return to the cruiserweight division. To do that I guess I have to give back the division too. I would love to see Rey and Evan Bourne go at it in a good storyline.

Batista - For Batista, I would give retirement. It is time, man.

Chris Jericho - For the great Jericho, I have two presents. One, I bring back his ponytail. The GQ look just does not scream "Jericho" at all! Two, I bring back The Rock for him to go back and forth with. Nothing in my view compared to the Rock and Jericho going toe to toe on the microphone.

The Big Show - For the Big Show I give the powers of flight off the top rope. I am sorry but that would make for incredible television. His spear is great, but seeing Big Show go Mysterio would be classic.

Matt Hardy - I give a safe return of brother Jeff. Nothing is more important than family and Matt needs Jeff around. They compliment each other and always will.

Randy Orton - For Orton I give a injury timeout. A do over of sorts. Remember when Orton was gone due to the Motorcycle wreck? He was so over with the fans that a face turn would have been classic (see imminent Edge turn coming).

I see Orton turning face this time and staying there. He has the potential to be the face of WWE if they use him correctly.

Edge - For Edge I give the perfect return in a perfect WWE. The natural feud is with Jericho, and he simply has to make a huge return to confront him. God forbid Jerishow are still champs come then, I would love to see Edge return with Christian to challenge. I know it is far fetched, but it would be sweet.

That wraps up my gifts for this year. Feel free to leave gifts of your own down below.

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A Call for Randy Orton To Show His Face

Mark Delaney — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:19:38 -0500

Is it just me or has anybody else had brief thoughts regarding Randy Orton as a face? Is it time for Randy, after becoming the most dominant heel in the business, to suddenly become the good guy?

Although current circumstances would point to a great improbability of such an event occurring, I personally believe that Randy was a very talented and likable face who, because of ridiculous booking on the part of the WWE writers, was changed back to the heel moniker that had been so profitable for them in the past.

In 2004, Randy Orton had already established himself as a future star, defeating the likes of Shawn Michaels and Cactus Jack in a brutal match in which he earned much respect form WWE fans.

By now, the WWE were already preparing Orton for a Heavyweight title reign, and thus it came as little surprise when Orton dropped the Intercontinental title to Edge so he could enter the main event scene.

Orton won a No. 1 Contender Battle Royal on Raw, defeating Chris Jericho after the two were the last remaining contestants. He soon went on to Summerslam, where he defeated Chris Benoit with an RKO, much to the delight of the crowd. After the match, the WWE turned Orton face, using the respectful handshake technique that had become a common way of turning heel wrestlers into faces (Hulk Hogan vs The Rock at Mania 18).

The following night was the night in which the WWE's main storyline of the year began to take shape as Evolution turned on Randy Orton. This was particularly notable for the "thumbs down" gesture which became a fixture with Orton and most notably Batista when he went on to lift the title for the first time.

The lines were drawn, the stage set and the eyes of the WWE universe on what had the potential to become one of the most engaging storylines in years. WWE had set it up to perfection. Everything was looking promising.

That was until the writers lost the plot with a monotonous storyline that descended into utter boredom, eventually culminating at Royal Rumble, where Orton was defeated in a Pay-Per-View by Triple H in what must have been the hundredth time in 12 months.

Orton quickly became the underdog, the likable rogue of sorts, standing up to what was portrayed as an impossible situation. Three to one, Orton being outnumbered every time and this was the case at Unforgiven, where all three members of Evolution interfered causing Orton to lose his title.

Thus Orton began the hunt, coming near but not near enough on countless occasions. He exchanged momentum with Evolution for the next two months, before he was due to face Ric Flair at Taboo Tuesday. Why would Orton fight Flair? What exactly did that achieve? Orton won, while Triple H faced off against an "injured" Shawn Michaels in what was essentially a one-off match with very little background.

The public ignored both Edge and Benoit, and this was notable for the fact that Edge's heel turn took place at that event.

The WWE made a massive mistake. By not putting Orton in the group of contenders, he instead became pushed to the background and didn't get another chance at the title for another two months. Although Orton eventually became part of a quite good Survivor Series storyline, the fact that he was overlooked for the Taboo Tuesday match was ridiculous. The fans began to tire of the constant build up play with no end game.

Orton became embroiled in a storyline with Jericho, Benoit and well...Maven, who all took places on his team at Survivor Series to take on Triple H's team for control of RAW for the following month. The fans appetite was whetted once again, as Orton's team won and took control of Raw in what was an entertaining end to 2004.

The norm at the time was for the WWE to alternate Pay-Per-Views between Raw and Smackdown, so Orton was forced to wait five months until his next title shot, all while being in the main event scene, a situation which is unheard of today.

The excessive wait for Orton to become Champion was beginning to take its toll as some fans grew tiresome of this feud. However despite this, Orton had great support and momentum going in to New Year's Revolution. He took his place in the Elimination Chamber match which marked the rise of Batista, as footage in the following months showed that Triple H intentionally let Batista get eliminated.

To say that Orton should have won this match would be an understatement. Throughout the feud he showed great charisma, likability and undoubted potential. This marked the second elimination chamber where the WWE ignored the more popular and favourable outcome in order to have Triple-H retain the title.

The previous, of course, was the elimination chamber featuring Goldberg. One cannot help but sense that Levesque's romantic situation may have been somewhat responsible for Triple-H's extremely fortuitous and unnecessarily prolonged spell of dominance in 2004.

Orton lost the match and went on to lose at Royal Rumble, turning heel and challenging the Undertaker. He has been a heel ever since. I personally feel that it is time to change Orton's motivation.

He was turned into the punching bag of the WWE in recent months, only retaining his title with the interference of Legacy, who frankly were portrayed as stronger than he was. This was a very far cry from the hugely interesting Age of Orton which began in 2007.

Now the feud with Kofi making Orton seem more stale and lost than ever, but I do accept the wonders that it is doing for the man from Jamaica, or err...Ghana.

It is time for Orton to become face. I am aware of the fact that it is unlikely, the fact that he is the only main event heel on RAW, but I do hope that sometime in the near future we will see a different, and in my opinion better side to Randy

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Paul Burchill and Katie Lea: What's Next for the Wrestling "Siblings"?

Shane H. — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:26:51 -0500

On Nov. 17, 2009, Paul Burchill lost a match (not surprising, as that has been the norm) on ECW to the Hurricane.

What made this match different from others was the fact that this match was a "Mask vs. Career" match. If Burchill won, the Hurricane would unmask. If Burchill lost, which he did, he, along with his on-screen sister Katie Lea, would have to leave ECW.

I wasn't sure where I stood here. On one hand, I wanted the Brit to persevere and get the victory to unmask our resident hero. On the other, what else could Burchill do on ECW?

Sure, he could actually be booked better, but that doesn't seem to be the course the WWE has for him.

For months, since coming over to ECW in December 2008, Burchill is usually seen laying on his back to end a match. I don't have the exact calculations, but I'm quite confident that he hasn't amassed double-digit wins since going to Tuesday nights.

Here is a fellow who is quite skilled in the ring and pretty good on the microphone, yet the WWE has never really done anything with him.

Anybody remember the pirate gimmick on SmackDown! ? As silly as it was, the crowds enjoyed it. Where did it go? Check Davy Jones' locker.

Burchill has appeared on all three brands of the WWE since being called up from OVW in 2005. In those four years, he's toiled away in the midcard ranks, never once being engaged in a storyline that seemed to have a defined ending point.

So here he is on ECW trying to reveal the true identity of Hurricane but being foiled in all his attempts. Two weeks ago he issues a challenge for the "Mask vs. Career" match and Hurricane agrees. Actions of a desperate man or a confident man, you make the call.

Would I have enjoyed an ECW Championship title opportunity? Definitely. But that isn't going to happen, at least not for the near future.

Does he return to Raw? Does he head to the red brand where if you're not named John Cena, Randy Orton, DX, or Hornswoggle (yes, I said Hornswoggle), you don't get much attention?

I can already see it now: Burchill makes his debut on Raw and decimates Primo or Evan Bourne. We will then get these matches off and on for about a month before Burchill teams with Chris Masters to take on the team of Primo and Bourne.

If there is no possibility of upward mobility, I rather not see Burchill on Mondays.

Then we have SmackDown! . The blue brand is home to many youngsters currently and talent wise, I rather see Burchill here. This reason isn't solely based on Paul, though.

I'm figuring that with Paul comes Katie Lea. Katie Lea needs to be on the Friday night show.

She's a woman who has not been used to her full abilities since being called up from developmental. A woman who has wrestled in the states and abroad, Katie Lea can work with just about anybody in the ring.

Of course, we wouldn't know this because the WWE likes to keep her in vampire-inspired garb and stand her at ringside. It's a travesty that we can't see Katarina Waters let loose in a WWE ring as I know she can.

With Mickie James, Beth Phoenix, Natalya, and Michelle McCool on SmackDown! , Katie could be a part of a solid core of women wrestlers.

However, the blue brand has several heels trying to make a name for themselves in the midcard in Dolph Ziggler, Mike Knox, Drew McIntyre, and Eric Escobar.

Does that leave room for Burchill? Or does that mean a face turn for him?

I can't really see that happening as he was dead-set on unmasking a fan favorite. Unless the have him throw himself at the mercy of the audience and tell them he sees the errors in his ways. Still, I rather a heel Burchill.

ECW is the place many go to wither away and die or hone their craft to come back up to the big boys. Burchill shouldn't be withering away now that he lost his match.

Despite not having more checks in the "Win" column, I think the WWE needs to let the guy blossom and do something of significant. The guy hasn't even won a bloody tag team championship. Wherever he ends up, I pray something worthy is done with him.

Shane Howard is a member of Hit the Ropes Radio Show. You can check out the web site here . HTR Radio airs every Sunday and Wednesday at 6 p.m. ET.

Be sure to join the Facebook group as well (click here ). Also, check out FOW and WR for your wrestling news, as well as my work there.

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Who Are the Future World Champions of the WWE?

Chris Mueller AKA The most interesting man in the world — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:15:52 -0500

The WWE has received criticism for not pushing their mid card talent to main event status lately. Everyone who watches wrestling has seen the same few guys be cycled through the main event scene for a long time now.

Guys like Batista, John Cena, HHH, Randy Orton, and The Undertaker have been taking the World Title slots for a few years. Occasionally we will see a sprinkling of guys like Jericho and CM Punk.

The real question here is who will take the torch from these guys in the next few years? Batista, HHH, and the Undertaker don't have a long time left in the ring full time and guys need to start stepping up.

Shelton Benjamin has been a name that has been talked about in the world title picture for awhile now. He has never gotten his shot but many people feel he deserves one soon.

His in-ring ability is undeniable and his recent face turn seems to be working well for him. He will most likely hold the ECW title sometime in the near future and hopefully the WWE uses that to groom him for a World Title run.

John Morrison has also been mentioned among fans as being a future contender. His past in gymnastics makes him able to do high flying moves that no one else can pull off. He has the look and the style to be a top face of the WWE.

His mic skills are still a little iffy but his recent in ring performances more than make up for anything he's ever done that looked bad.

Jack Swagger has a bright future. In the short time he has been in the WWE he has made a big impact.

HHH pointed to him recently as being a big part of WWE's future and an endorsement from the Game in the WWE goes a long way. His size and background in amateur wrestling make him primed to be WWE's next big thing.

Evan Bourne is someone I see as being the next Mysterio. He has many different exciting high flying moves and a great work ethic.

Many people may not think he has it in him to be the top guy, but I disagree, I think that with HHH saying he is one of the next top guys that he will see a better push soon.

Other people who may have it in them to take the reigns of the WWE are The Miz, Christian, Sheamus, Matt Hardy, and The Hart Dynasty.

Feel free to leave any comments. Thanks for reading.

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What to Do With Bryan Danielson in the WWE

Steven Ransiear — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:47:44 -0500

A lot of us Internet wrestling fans have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of Bryan Danielson to WWE television.

Danielson signed a deal with the company back in August of this year and it was reported that he would be bypassing developmental, which to me is a smart choice.

The WWE has a history of taking top notch talent and forcing them to change their style inside the ring, often leaving them not bringing what got them there in the first place, once on television.

Danielson has been called "The Best Wrestler In The World" by many. For a few years it was hard to make an argument against that statement.

Danielson put on numerous memorable matches inside and outside of his home in ROH. Who could forget the rivalries with Takeshi Morishima and Nigel McGuinness?

Danielson was able to capture championships around the world, including the ROH World Championship which he held for an astounding 462 days.

He also established himself in Japan taking home the Pro Wrestling NOAH GHC Jr. Heavyweight Championship in 2008 as well as the New Japan Pro Wrestling Jr. Tag belts with Curry Man in 2004.

With Danielson on his way to the WWE, the question of what to do with him is certainly a hard one to answer. But I'm going to try.

Most of us would love to see him come in on Smackdown and shoot right to the top in a program with CM Punk. Something we never really got when both men were on the independent scene.

Danielson would be more than able to pull it off as his promo skills improved dramatically during his final years in ROH and he can bring it just as good as ever in the ring. Not to mention, CM Punk isn't doing much these days since losing his title to the Undertaker.

It'd be a perfect match up for both men. Taking an established heel like Punk to build up a newcomer like Danielson would give Danielson some credibility early in his WWE career. Usually we see younger talent taking on the lower card workers during their beginning stages.

Of course the more likely series of events is that Danielson will appear on ECW as a member of the new superstar initiative. Probably under some goofy name like the painful Yoshi Tatsu given to Naofumi Yamamoto.

If that is the route that the WWE takes, they should ship Christian off and let Danielson go at it with William Regal. Danielson trained under him a little and wrestles a similar stiff style. I for one would certainly tune in on Tuesday nights to see them go at it.

If the WWE is smart, they'll know that he has a cult following however small it is in their eyes and push him right off the bat. They've been doing pretty well lately with the booking of their younger workers with Kofi Kingston, Sheamus, and Dolph Ziggler making an impact on their respective brands.

To be brutally honest, Danielson can out work all of them, thus making him an ideal candidate to feud with any of them. Danielson plays his heel and face personas at a high level equally which is an invaluable tool to have in wrestling.

Raw seems to be the worst place he could end up as it's already crowded at the top. That leaves only the desolate wasteland that is the RAW mid to lower card.

There we might find him appearing sporadically as a jobber, maybe getting a win over someone like Primo or Santino Marella. It would be an absolute waste of his talent.

I understand that if Danielson follows the path of a Jack Swagger or Kofi Kingston, it could be up to a year or two for him to get any sort of push beyond that midcard barrier. We the fans know that this shouldn't be what happens but it's a cruel reality we might face.

Just please WWE...let him keep the Cattle Mutilation. The name will have to go but it'll be a unique move that Danielson can use to his advantage.

Perhaps becoming something that will get him over with the fans as they'll look for him to pull it out of nowhere like he has so many times before.

Danielson has had some time to rest up as he's completed his independent commitments. This should provide for a fresh American Dragon to explode into the WWE.

Because let's face it, even if he's on ECW, even if he gets a dumb name, he's still Bryan Danielson. He's still one of the best of this generation. And he'll still kick your F'ing head in.

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My Top Ten WWE Matches Of All Time

Chris Mueller AKA The most interesting man in the world — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:07:27 -0500

Note: I have Updated this article and deleted the old one so I apologize to anyone who may have commented on the previous version. This is a long article so sit back and relax.

Over the years many different people have had their own opinions of what “The Greatest Match of all Time” was. I have heard so many different matches named that you could fill a years worth of PPV event with the list.

Some great matches have been mentioned on this site as being the all time best match from Hulk vs Andre to Rock vs Austin. I’ve even heard some argue that the Rey vs Eddie Ladder match was the greatest match they had ever seen.

No matter what, there is always going to be different opinions on this topic, and there will never be a unanimous decision on the matter either.

That’s what is great about sports entertainment; people will bond over their differences and their similarities. This is how it is with all sports. I’ve seen a Cubs fan marry a White Sox fan, a Bears fan buy a Packers fan a beer and even a Yankees fan hug a Red Sox fan.

This article will be dedicated to what I believe are the top ten matches of all time:

10. Hulk vs. Andre for the WWE Title

When people packed into their seats for Wrestlemania III they knew they were in for a treat. Wrestlemania was now an established yearly event with its third outing and the headlining match was designed to go down in history as one of the all time greats in the industry.

The Irresistible Force meets The Immovable Object.

The Largest Arms in the world taking on the Giant of the WWE.

I wonder what was going through the minds of those in attendance as they watched their two Super Human guides take them on a journey. As Hogan and Andre squared off many people felt it was impossible for Hulk to slam the Giant.

As the match progressed we saw Hogan try and fail at lifting the behemoth over his head. Things began to look grim for the Hulkster, until the roar of the crowd brought out the Hulkamaniac. As Hogan recovered and began mounting an offense it looked as if he would try one last time to slam his nemesis to the ground. SUCCESS. Hogan drops Andre to the ground and the Drops the big leg for the 1 2 3. A historic moment etched in time by two of the all time great showmen.

9. Rock vs. Austin (not one match in particular, but all of them)

The Rock and Stone Cold had one of the greatest feuds in history. The two met on many, many occasions all across the globe to deliver some of the best matches the WWE had to offer.

The Rock was the charismatic People’s Champion while Stone Cold Steve Austin was the Redneck, beer drinking Texan. It was a match made in heaven. The two had such great chemistry that they headlined Wrestlemania three separate times. One of their most heated encounters came at Wrestlemania 17. Stone Cold was the Royal Rumble winner and the Rock was the Champion. As the two fought the crowd went back and forth cheering both men.

It was Mr. McMahon who made this match so controversial when he interfered causing The Rock to lose to Austin and lose the Title. The Rock left shortly after to film The Mummy Returns but he wouldn’t be gone long as he returned to face Austin at Mania two more times after WM17.

8. Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar for the WWE Title

Kurt Angle, an Olympic Gold Medalist went face to face with the 2000 NCAA heavyweight champion and two-time NCAA All American Brock Lesnar in a match for the ages. It had been years since two established, professionally trained wrestlers of this kind had faced off. They had a great match going back and forth, appearing at times that either man could win.

Fans were stunned when Lesnar ascended the ropes and botched a shooting star press in one of the craziest moments in wrestling history. As everyone watched Lesnar thinking he had broken his neck and ended his career, only to see him get up and eventually F-5 Angle to win the WWE Championship.

After the match the two gladiators embraced in a rare moment. Angle expressed his true respect for The Next Big Thing and opened his arms to his nemesis. This match was undoubtedly one of the most memorable in both men’s careers.

7. The Hardys vs. The Dudleys First Tag Team Tables match

For years people have been talking about the TLC matches between the Hardys, E&C and The Dudleys. But one match that I found more entertaining was the Tag Team Tables match The Hardys had with The Dudleys.

The match was the first of its kind in the WWE and showcased the two best tag teams at the time doing what they did best, high risk moves in hardcore style matches. This match was not for the Tag Titles but for something more important, respect. The Hardy Boys had only been in the WWE for a few years at that point and had not been in the business as long as The Dudley Boys.

That didn’t stop Matt and Jeff from winning the match though. Despite every man in the match going through at least one table a piece, The Hardys managed to pull out the victory in The Dudleys environment when Jeff Swanton Bombed Bubba Ray through two tables form atop the entrance way.

This match was the most exciting match of the evening and has unfortunately been overshadowed by the three way TLC matches that came after.

6. Ric Flair vs. Randy “Macho Man” Savage for the WWE Title

Many people have talked about the Feuds between Flair and Hogan and Hogan and Savage, but some forget the saga between Randy Savage and Ric Flair. At Wrestlemania 8 Ric Flair defended his WWE Title against Randy Savage in a very brutal and personal match.

Flair had been claiming up to that point that he had slept with Macho’s real life wife Elizabeth, and had even gone as far as showing fake pictures of the two together. Randy was furious and that showed in the match. They went back and forth for over twenty minutes, trading blows and holds, until Savage prevailed and won the match and his second WWE Title.

In real life Savage was having marital problems and in 1992 Randy and Elizabeth called it quits for real. This had a negative effect on Savage for years to come, but the match that he had with Flair before all his personal issues arose was one of, if not his best match of his whole career.

5. Shawn Michaels Winning the Royal Rumble

I know these lists tend to lean more towards matches that end in pinfall or submission but I can’t help but love the first Royal Rumble victory Shawn Michaels had in 1995. He was the first person to enter at number one and last the entire match.

The British Bulldog deserves the same credit as he was the second man in and lasted til being the last person eliminated, so technically he did the same thing as Shawn, but Shawn won the match and that’s why I put it on the list.

This Rumble was full of surprises from the return of Adam Bomb to the WWE to Shawn having the whole arena thinking he had been eliminated. He is truly a legend in the making and his first Rumble win was a big stepping stone to becoming the performer he is today.

4. Bret Hart vs. Mr. Perfect for the Intercontinental Championship

Bret Hart has had many different adversaries over the years, but few match up to the technical ability of the Hitman the way Mr. Perfect did. These two stole the show during the 1991 Summerslam event. The match went for 24 minutes and took everything out of both men.

We saw two of the greatest technicians in the history of the business square off for a mid card title that night but the atmosphere was that of a World Championship match. With the Hitman’s parents at ringside, he had to pull out the victory and win the belt.

When Mr. Perfect hit the Perfectplex everyone was sure it was over, and then Bret kicked out, something no one had done when hit with The Perfectplex. Shortly after that Bret started working over Hennig’s leg until finally locking on the sharpshooter and getting the win.

The match was so heated that Bret even ripped off Mr. Perfect’s singlet when he tried to escape the ring. This will go down as maybe the best Intercontinental Title match of all time.

3. The Undertaker vs. The Undertaker from Summerslam 1994

This may not have been the most technical match, or even the most exciting, but it was one of the most memorable. After the Undertaker disappeared, we began seeing another Undertaker in the WWE. It was hard to tell sometimes if it was the same person with the hair in the face look he had at the time, but never the less it was a thought people had. Then the real Undertaker returned wearing purple gloves instead of his trademark grey and it was inevitable that the two phenoms would go face to face.

At Summerslam 94 they faced off in a match that would determine who the real Dead Man was. As the two squared off it became apparent who the real Undertaker in the WWE was as we saw the purple glove wearing Icon drop his opponent head first into the mat for the win.

This feud was made better by the great promo skills of Paul Bearer who is quite possibly the greatest manager in WWE history, maybe tying with Mr. Fuji.

2. Hulk Hogan vs. The Ultimate Warrior IC and World titles

The thing I find most interesting about this match is that most people don’t realize that both titles were on the line that night. The Warrior took on Hulkamania in a match for the ages. The two Future Icons fought a hard match with both men hitting their respective finishers only to see the other kick out.

After Hulk “Hulked” up and got the advantage, The Warrior began drawing his own power from the crowd, and the ring ropes. As Hogan stood astonished that his blows had no effect on the painted faced Warrior he knew his time was coming to and end as Warrior lifted Hulk above his head, only to drop him down and hit the big splash for the pin.

The Warrior won his first World Title that night but the icing on the cake was the presenting of the Title by Hogan, thus passing the torch to the new face of the WWE. The Warrior would fall of the map shortly after but his legacy will stand in the annals of wrestling history forever.

1. Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart in a Steel Cage Match

Undoubtedly the best brother vs. brother feud was Bret and Owen Hart. The feud lasted for years with the two facing off on many occasions. The most memorable to me was the Steel Cage match the two had in Madison Square Garden.

It was during the days of the big blue grid style cage. Owen had a one to nothing advantage over Bret going into the match after beating him at Wrestlemania 10. Bret had gone onto win the WWE title and Owen had become bitter. The two locked up in a match that can only be described as mayhem.

The two Hart Dungeon graduates both utilized the Sharpshooter as a finisher so it was natural to assume that they both knew a counter to the maneuver. Bret got the advantage late in the match, reversing his brothers Sharpshooter into his own and holding it for over two minutes before releasing and making his way through the cage door.

I am a huge Hardy fan and I though their feud was great but the best Brother on Brother feud in history is the Hart brothers by a large margin.

Thanks for reading and feel free to share your thoughts

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When Pro Wrestlers Become People of Wal-Mart

Shane H. — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:28:21 -0500

**It was a huge hit on the Hit the Ropes website, so we decided we would bring it to the folks of Bleacher Report, just in case you might have missed it.**

There is nothing like needing something and realizing you have to get up out of your home and head over to the nearest Walmart. Fear not, though, as the local department store can lend itself to viewing many interesting folks.

The influence of professional wrestling can be seen throughout the world, and Wal-Mart can't escape the tendrils of pro wrestling. So, thanks to the wonderful people at PeopleofWalmart.com, HTR has decided to bring to you, "When Pro Wrestlers Become People of Wal-Mart."

Be sure to check out the People of Wal-Mart website, as it is chock-full of hilarious pictures of Wal-Marts throughout the nation. With that, let us begin the fun.

Initial Thoughts:

Goldust, eat your heart out.

Dustin Runnels has got nothing on you sista!

This is why there are no long title reigns in wrestling anymore. Nobody wants to hold on to the gold.

Initial Thoughts:

Holy crap! It's Henry O. Godwinn.

Anybody remember when Hunter Hearst-Helmsley got "slopped" after the Arkansas Hog Pen match? That's what happens when you break kayfabe, Triple H.

Hey, where's Phineas I. Godwinn and Hillbilly Jim?

Initial Thoughts:

Someone call Sgt. Slaughter; I think we have someone who went AWOL.

She was the true winner of that Diva Search contest a few years ago when they had to run the obstacle course.

Go back and watch that DX entrance from SummerSlam, I believe we saw her in the tank with the boys.

Initial Thoughts:

My name is Finlay and I love to...buy teen comedy DVDs???

Finlay isn't looking very "fit" anymore.

When it comes to young Hornswoggle, sir, you ARE the father!

Initial Thoughts:

With the PG programming, the WWE has gotten another kid-friendly sponsor.

Hey Scott Hall, isn't this ride, Just...too...sweeeettttt! (No, not really.)

So this is how Mark Henry and MVP get to the arenas now.

Initial Thoughts:

I wondered why Sting doesn't paint his face as much anymore.

Hiroko , where's Kenzo Suzuki? "You cheer on Kenzo Suzuki to the vic-to-wee!"

I'm thinking she got Mr. Fuji really angry earlier.

Initial Thoughts:

I'm telling Ranjin Singh that you're cheating on him with another translator.

The Great Khali, huh! You're not so great. You can't even drink milk with lactose in it.

I'm sorry, Khali, Wal-Mart sells a lot of things, but you won't find wrestling talent there.

Initial Thoughts:

I've got two words for ya...That's tacky!

If that lady isn't careful, she'll get a Superkick like that little girl did.

Even when they aren't on WWE television, DX finds a way to shamelessly plug their merchandise.

Initial Thoughts:

And that's the bottom line, because my barber said so.

How do you want your hair to look? WHAT!? How do you want your hair to look? WHAT!? Your hair? WHAT!? To look? WHAT!?

Will we see "Stone Cold" Steve Austin guest host an episode of RAW? Depends.

Initial Thoughts:

Money wasn't the only thing that Linda took in the divorce.

Whatchya gonna do brutha, when the Hulkster has 11 items and still gets into the 10 items or less lane?

I don't think this is what TNA expected when they signed Hulk to come onboard.

Initial Thoughts:

Katie Vick anybody?

Hey, Kane, this guy wants to boink your ex. You gonna do something about that?

If this guy succeeds in accomplishing that desire, then all those souls the Undertaker took might not be resting very peacefully.

Initial Thoughts:

Is that Vladimir Kozlov on the right?

This is a true parking lot brawl. First person to slam their opponent on the hood of the Ford Ranger and drive them into the produce aisle wins.

Is it just me or does this look like a TNA house show?

Credit People of Walmart for pictures.

Shane Howard is a member of Hit the Ropes Radio Show. You can check out the web site here . HTR Radio airs every Sunday and Wednesday at 6 p.m. ET. This Sunday, independent stars Josh Abercrombie and the Osirian Portal stop by.

Be sure to join the Facebook group as well (click here ). Also, check out FOW and WR for your wrestling news, as well as my work there. HTR is having a TNA Turning Point competition. Head to the site to join.

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Remembering the Legend That Was Eddie Guerrero

Captain Charisma — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:04:11 -0500

Nov. 13, 2005 will forever be imprinted on the minds of every wrestling fan as it was the day that a true great sadly passed from this world; that great was indeed Eddie Guerrero.

After scouring the Internet, I was both shocked and ashamed that very few of my fellow wrestling writers had remembered the fourth anniversary of the death of Eddie Guerrero.

Only one article has been posted on B/R so I was compelled...no, I was driven to change that and to make sure that everyone out there will take some time out to think about the career and life of Latino Heat.

I will not be talking about the death of Eddie Guerrero, not frowning upon the WWE Wellness policy but instead reminiscing back on the career of Latino Heat and oh my, what a career it was.

Eddie Guerrero was one of the greatest in-ring technicians of all time. Time and time again he thrilled us with matches that fused together mat-wrestling, lucha libre and American Cruiserweight style to form a tapestry of beauty.

Not only that but he was one of the few performers back then and now that can get us to laugh, get us to cheer him, to boo him, to empathise with him all with the power of his words and it would not be fitting to talk about Latino Heat without mentioning his signature low-riders, each fitted to suit a specific occasion.

Who can forget his 5* match up with Rey Mysterio at Halloween Havoc of 1997? Eddie, the cocky and arrogant heel, put his Cruiserweight Championship on the line whilst Rey, the underdog babyface, put his mask.

The debut of the Radicalz (Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko and Perry Saturn) was one of the great debuts in WWE history, laying out D-Generation X after being members of the crowd.

What about the antics of Los Guerreros? Every week they entertained the peeps out there with both their backstage shenanigans and also their sublime in-ring work; being a part of the legendary Smackdown Six (the others being Kurt Angle, Chris Benoit, Edge and Rey Mysterio). I mean, who didn't crack up when Latino Heat laced the Big Show's food with laxatives, causing the giant to spend his night literally on the toilet.

However the crowning moment of Eddie Guerrero's career is indeed his first and sadly only WWE Championship where he beat Brock Lesnar at No Way Out 2004 in the best big man vs. little man match that I have ever witnessed.

It had everything that a classic needed and then some; and the celebration of Eddie Guerrero with his fans brought a tear to mine and many others' eyes.

These matches showcased why Eddie was indeed one of the best in the world and looking back at this match, made me think of what the WWE would be like right now if he was still gracing our screens and providing us with endless entertainment. All I know is that it would most definitely be a better place.

With everyone knowing how big of a Peep I am, it was indeed Latino Heat who was the first wrestler that I truly marked out for.

Eddie Guerrero: A true great, a true legend and most importantly of all a true champion in the eyes of everyone.

Viva La Raza Eddie..... Gone but never forgotten.

" I lie!! I cheat!! I steal!!"

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Survivor Series: Why The WWE Should Build It Up More

david kim — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 04:27:03 -0500

Survivor Series has always been one of my favorite Pay-per-views of the year. In fact, it has even topped Wrestlemania at times. (this may be a stretch). Why? Because the buildups to Survivor Series are utterly amazing.

Who could forget 2001 Survivor Series where the alliance took on the WWF, or the 2003 Survivor Series in which Team Bishoff faced Team Austin, where the winner took control as general manager of RAW. Even the 2004 Card of Evolution vs. Randy's Anti-evolution and the 2005 Card of Smackdown vs Raw (but this time, much better than the bragging rights match) cannot be forgotten.

To me, Survivor Series is nothing without it's buildup. What made these matches so great and memorable was the fact that these promos and shows leading up to survivor series told a story. And honestly, you must be crazy if you didn't get excited when Austin's music hit and announced the members of his team, or when Randy and his anti-evolution faced off against Evolution.

But most importantly, the betrayals and tensions within the teams such as when Kurt Angle betrayed the WWF to join the Alliance in 2001, or when the tension for the World Heavyweight championship in Triple H's team in 2004, really made the buildup to Survivor Series so great.

Now, we have a very disappointing buildup to most of the pay-per-views, but for Survivor Series, it is absolutely disgraceful. No qualifying matches? No team captains "handpicking" the teams? All we are left with is the commentators announcing the card for survivor series, instead of allowing the superstars tell the story, making the buildups to pay per views just boring and unbearable.

I mean seriously, in one episode of RAW, both traditional survivor series' main events were announced. Seriously? At least allow the audience to contemplate on who the final three members of the team would be.

Message to the creative team: GIVE MORE MIC TIME TO THE SUPERSTARS.

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The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit in Pro Wrestling

Svyato Rovenchuk The Toronto Made Classic — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:41:42 -0500

If you are a christian and believe in Jesus Christ you also believe in the Holy Spirit. And you know that the Holy Spirit brings us 7 gifts. The gifts of wisdom, understanding, right judgment, knowledge, fortitude, piety, and fear of the lord. If you look at Pro Wrestling you can see all of those gifts in there. In what superstars you may ask? Well you are about to find out.

Begin Slideshow

Eddie Guerrero: Forever Young

Fred Richani — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:48:57 -0500

It seems just like yesterday when I found out one of my all-time favorite wrestlers, “Latino Heat” Eddie Guerrero passed away, due to heart failure. Nov. 13, 2005 was such a sad day for wrestling fans around the world. It was definitely a tragic moment that hit the wrestling world hard like a meteorite.

Guerrero's employer, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), publicly implemented a wellness policy, consisting of stringent drug tests for all their superstars. Superstars that test positive end up suspended and may receive rehabilitation treatment.

Guerrero's death may not have been drug-related directly, but certainly, his past use of pain killers, steroids, and alcohol did contribute to his untimely demise.

It is a shame, since he was clean for a number of years prior to his death, although the Signature Pharmacy scandal of 2007 reveals that illegal performance enhancing drugs were shipped to his home two weeks before his passing.

Whatever the true circumstances surrounding his death may be, Latino Heat is considered one of the greatest ever. The man had it all—good look, suave attitude, charisma, and most of all, exceptional in-ring ability.

His matches with Rey Mysterio, Kurt Angle, Dean Malenko, Chris Benoit, Edge, and Rob Van Dam (just to name a few) were almost always instant classics.

Guerrero spanned the globe too, wrestling for AAA in Mexico, NJPW in Japan, and ECW, WCW, and WWE in the states.

As nice as it is to see Guerrero's family members Vickie and Chavo Jr., as well as friends Batista and Rey Mysterio getting great exposure in WWE, that still doesn't change the fact the company over-exploited his death via a series of angles that tastelessly referenced him in late-2005, early-2006.

I know it's a show and it must go on, but using his name in an angle to get heat for then-Smackdown superstars Randy Orton and Chavo Guerrero was extremely insensitive. Then again, no one held a gun to their heads, so who knows...

Regardless of how you feel about the aforementioned angles, there should be no doubt in anybody's mind that Eddie Guerrero was one of the best of his generation. He overcame demons, worked hard, won the hearts of millions, and still leaves an impact on WWE today, as proven by their recent tribute to him on A Decade of Smackdown.

I could go on and on about Eddie Guerrero, but that video does all the justice for Latino Heat. It may have been four years since his death, but Eddie Guerrero will be forever young and loved. Rest in peace, Eddie. Thanks for the memories.

Viva La Raza!!!!!

Fred "The F-Bomb" Richani is a columnist for The Sports Courier , 411Mania.com , and everythingyntk.com . Richani founded The Sports Courier in 2009. His work has been featured on CBS Sportsline , Pro Wrestling Torch , GOOGLE News , and USAToday.com . He has also interviewed Platinum-selling bands Blue October and OneRepublic . Richani currently resides in Freehold, NJ, just an hour from New York City and Philadelphia.

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Ultimo Dragon: Pro Wrestling's All-Time Greatest International Star

Joe Burgett — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:11:05 -0500

When you think of some of the greatest wrestling stars of all time, you may think of people such as Stone Cold Steve Austin or The Rock. The popularity of these two men in America made them a house hold name across the world.

However, America is not the only place wrestling takes place. Japan actually has some of the greatest wrestlers of all time, and they constantly put out great wrestlers every year.

It seems ever since pro-wrestling was seen in Japan, the Japanese loved every minute of it. It is so popular now that you can go into places like the Tokyo Dome and see as many people there as you would at Wrestlemania.

The difference between their market and America's is that they sell out that arena every time a wrestling event is present. Unlike in America, where only the major pay-per-views are sold out.

The fans seem to love it and cannot get enough. It is treated like a sport there, and while many know it is predetermined entertainment, they just don't care. Everything that goes on in that ring is considered just as real as a basketball or baseball game to them.

They have to be the best wrestling fans in the world if you ask me. People there don't grow up wanting to be a basketball player, they grow up wanting to be wrestlers or fighters

A man by the name of Yoshihiro Asai was no different. He grew up like many in the country, idolizing the sport of wrestling. He wanted his game to be different than anyone else's.

He thought that the Japanese style of wrestling was great, but adding more to it would be better. He could add the American style, English, Lucha Libre, and Japanese style to seemingly make one super wrestler.

He was taught his Japanese style of wrestling, and while in Japan, he was trained in Martial Arts by the legendary Bruce Lee. He was the last student Lee ever had, and Asai felt compelled to make sure the legend of Bruce Lee lived on.

He added the martial arts style to his wrestling performance, and it seemed that once he started doing it, the trainers in Japan did the same. Before Asai, there was some martial arts that took place in the ring.

However, it was nothing near what Asai would do. In the 80s when Asai was coming up, he would shock and amaze us with his Japanese performance. But, he always felt something was missing.

So, he went to Mexico where he learned the Mexican style known as Lucha Libre. He seemed to transition into it quite well, and earned the name we know him as today, Ultimo Dragon.

The name means Last Dragon, which was the best way Asai knew to honor his former teacher Bruce Lee. Because he was the last student of Lee and Lee's nickname was Dragon, it only seemed right to go by that name.

People were reminded of this for a while, but the gimmick was forgotten until he came back to America and wrestled with the WWE. Still, the name always stood.

Ultimo was an innovator in the ring. Because he knew of so many styles of wrestling, he put them all together to invent some phenomenal moves. One move though, is remembered by all fans.

The move is called the Asai Moonsault. It could be hit from anywhere seemingly.

But the place a lot of people know it from was when it was hit on the outside of the ring.

Ultimo would pop off of the middle rope doing the moonsault in the air and hitting his opponent outside the ring.

It seems like a normal everyday move to some now, but back then, Ultimo was considered the best high flyer alive doing it. That was a huge thing for him, because Mexico had some amazing people such as Mil Mascaras and Dos Caras Sr. there.

In 1987, he debuted in New Japan Pro Wrestling where he amazed everyone. But, he left the promotion along with his mentor, Gran Hamada. They both formed Hamada's Lucha Libre promotion, the ULL. The promotion later went into decline, and Ultimo moved to WAR.

Even after working in Mexico and Japan, he still felt as if something was missing. He knew he could go anywhere and do well. And the place that would give him the ultimate opportunity was WCW.

In 1996, he debuted with World Championship Wrestling. He originally went by the Ultimate Dragon for several months. But, WCW realized the error of their ways and he finally was called by his normal ring name, Ultimo Dragon.

He worked as a heel for a while there, and had a manager by the name of Sonny Onoo. He ended up winning the cruiserweight title for the first time from Dean Malenko at Starrcade in 1996. He was allowed the entire time though, to wrestle overseas.

In October of 1996, Ultimo won the J-Crown, which was a unification of eight junior (lightweight) division titles from various international promotions. At the time, he also held the NWA Middleweight Title.

Then, after winning the cruiserweight title in November, he had 10 major singles titles. But, people forget that he also held the WAR six-man tag team title, making him the only person ever to hold 11 major titles at the same time.

He is the first and last person to ever do so.

Later on, Ultimo dropped the cruiserweight title to Dean Malenko, but he became a big player once again by capturing the WCW television title only to lose it to Steven Regal later on.

After that, he then turned face by dropping Onoo as his manager and won back the Television title from Regal before losing to Alex Wright at the last Clash of the Champions.

He then won the WCW cruiserweight title for the very last time by beating Eddie Guerrero.

In 1998, Ultimo sustained an arm injury which required surgery. But, the surgery was botched and caused nerve damage. Many thought that this would be the end of his career, but he never announced retirement.

He did take extended time off, though, during which time he became a trainer.

Imagine, having one of the best wrestlers in the world as your teacher. He could teach you styles of wrestling that hardly anyone could do.

Ultimo taught three classes of students:

Toryumon Japan

Toryumon 2000 Project (T2P)

Toryumon X

In 1999 a promotion named Toryumon opened with almost every member on the roster being ones Ultimo had trained. The promotion's name was later changed to Dragon's Gate, and continued to carry that name soon after Ultimo parted ways with the promotion. However, he continued to train students at his gym.

Ultimo then had surgery once again to repair his arm, in hopes of making a return to the ring.

In 2002, Asai underwent another surgery to repair the damage done to his arm in hopes of returning to wrestling. In late 2002 Ultimo Dragon was in talks with the WWE about coming in. To get back into ring shape he returned to action for his T2P and Toryumon Mexico promotions.

In the spring of 2003, he signed with the WWE to accomplish two lifelong dreams. One was competing at Madison Square Garden and the other was competing at Wrestlemania.

One goal was given to him from the start. He debuted as Ultimo Dragon at the Madison Square Garden arena where he beat Shannon Moore.

He never competed at Wrestlemania, but did give us tremendous matches with Rey Mysterio while also competing for the cruiserweight title. His contract expired and was not renewed in 2004.

Since then, he competed in the CMLL which is the oldest wrestling promotion in the world. He worked in Japan once again, and in Canada.

In 2008, he starred in two movies, Bloodstained Memoirs (which starred a few other wrestlers) and Ultimo Dragon (not about him, but it is about a heroic martial arts story)

He still wrestles today at the age of 42 off and on. And he still gives back by training young wrestlers as well.

Ultimo gave his life to wrestling, and I think I can speak for all wrestling fans when I say, thank you Ultimo Dragon!

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WWE Going More Mainstream With Appearances

Chris Mueller AKA The most interesting man in the world — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:39:36 -0500

Lately it has been noticeable to anyone who watches wrestling that tons of WWE talent have been appearing all over television. This is a smart move for the WWE, because cross branding can only give them more exposure.

Recently we have seen Dolph Ziggler on Deal or no Deal, five wrestlers on "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader," Stephanie and some others appeared on a cooking show, John Cena and Mickie James have both appeared on Psych on Raw's home network USA, and Vince himself has been on ESPN more time this year then I can ever remember seeing.

The thing helping WWE the most may be the celebrities who are coming out of the woodwork to host Raw. Anyone who was or is a fan of WWE would want to host Raw. Ricky Hatton actually got in the ring a little bit for his appearance which is becoming a trend among the more athletic hosts. Maria Menounos wrestled in a six Diva match, Shaq squared off with Bog Show, Hatton faught Chavo, and Freddi Prince, Jr. got broken in half by Randy Orton.

Shaq versus Big Show for Wrestlemania has been thrown around as an Idea but no word from Shaq yet on if he is interested. The idea of celebrities fighting at Mania is nothing new either. Since Mr. T got in the ring at Mania it has become desirable for athletes to compete once for the WWE. Remember Lawrence Taylor facing Bam Bam at WM11? Or just a while back when Floyd Mayweather took on Big Show? Mickie Rourke is also talking about a match with the WWE now that he is not under contract to not hurt himself.

My only real question is—when will we see Randy Orton RKO Big Bird on Sesame Street or The Undertaker as Liz Lemons new boyfriend on 30 Rock? These are unlikely but a man can dream can't he?

In the coming months, we will be seeing more celebrity involvement with the WWE and in the long run it will help them grow into the giant they were five to 10 years ago.

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