http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/blog.php?10274-Vondraco Wrestling News and Discussion - eWrestlingNews.com Community en Sun, 19 May 2013 01:53:39 GMT vBulletin 10 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/blog.php?10274-Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?43909-Bound-for-Glory-Review-October-14-2012 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 04:08:57 GMT OK, this will not be a play-by-play recap, more of a quick analysis of the matches and where they’re going with this. Match #1 – X Division... OK, this will not be a play-by-play recap, more of a quick analysis of the matches and where they’re going with this.

Match #1 – X Division Championship
Zema Icon (c) vs Rob Van Damme
Who I want to win: RVD
Who I think will win: Zema Ion
Who won: RVD
Record: 0/1

I was totally surprised by this result. I fully expected Ion to hold onto the championship until Sorenson got back. Maybe Sorenson is having a hard time recovering from his injury and they’re trying to fill some time, I don’t know. I think it was a great match, however, and these two can put on a decent showing against each other. I wanted RVD to win just because I’m a fan of his from way back; I didn’t think he would though.

I see a prolonged feud with RVD and Ion. New blood vs old guard. RVD can put Ion over and when Sorenson gets back it’ll actually make it look like Sorenson has a challenge.

Match #2 – Television Championship
Samoa Joe (c) vs Magnus
Who I want to win: Samoa Joe
Who I think will win: Samoa Joe
Who won: Samoa Joe
Record: 1/2

I know a lot of people are saying Magnus is one of the rising stars in TNA. I agree with them, but that being said, I just don’t think he’s ready yet. Very soon, though, he’ll get his time in the limelight. Just not today.

Match #3 –Street Fight
James Storm vs Bobby Roode
Who I want to win: James Storm
Who I think will win: James Storm
Who won: James Storm
Record: 2/3

This was a freaking AWSOME match. Easily one of the best of the night, if not the entire year. WWE will never match this with their PG rating. King Mo as the special enforcer was not involved as much as I expected him to be , which frankly I think is good. I fully expected Storm to win, not a big shocker there. I’m hoping that this brings a close to the storyline; I enjoyed it, it was great, but move on now.

There are times in my life when (probably like most of you) I’ve fantasized about being a pro wrestler. This match was a perfect example of why I could never do it. This was brutal. Sure, scripted, fake, whatever you want to call it, this match … just NO. HELL NO. I give massive props to both Roode and Storm for what they did there.

Match #4 – TNA Contract match
Joey Ryan vs Al Snow
Who I want to win: Joey Ryan
Who I think will win: Joey Ran
Who won: Joey Ryan
Record: 3/4

I think that everybody knew that Joey Ryan was going to win this match. The storyline would have had little point if he lost. I actually thought it was kind of amusing that Ryan is the “Sleazemeister” while Snow was from Cleveland. I’ve lived in Ohio, and Cleveland was one of the sleaziest cities in the area, after Chicago. I did NOT expect Matt Morgan to make an appearance, however. That was a total surprise; I figured he’d be a part of the Aces&Eights team. He still could be, of course, we only got to see one member tonight.

Match #5– Tag Tean Championship
Daniels/Kazarian (c) vs Chavo/Hernandez vs Angle/Styles
Who I want to win: Angle/Styles
Who I think will win: Chavo/Hernandez
Who won: Chavo/Hernandez
Record: 4/5

I’m originally from the Pittsburgh area, so of course I’m going to be rooting for Angle. I think that TNA is pushing Chavo now to try and exploit his relationship with Eddie. I’m not AGAINST that, I mean, it’s good business, but still … be honest … Chavo is no Eddie. Daniels and Kaz had a decent run, but they’re getting a bit worn. I like them, I like their gimmick and such, but TBH I really prefer Daniels as a face. Kaz, now, I wouldn’t notice if he were gone from the roster. I just don’t see the point of the guy.

Match #6 –Knockouts Championship
Brooke Tessmacher (c) vs Tara
Who I want to win: Tessmacher
Who I think will win: Tara
Who won: Tara
Record: 5/6

Like the previous match, I’m living in Houston today, so I’m rooting for Brooke. And honestly I think she is twice as hot as Tara. (Yes, I watch her matches with no pants on.) I figured Tara would win, Brooke I see as more an interim champion. TNA really needs to get their Knockouts division back up to par; it’s not good as of late. But I’m still drooling for Brooke.

Match #7 – A&8 Match
Sting/Bully Ray vs Aces and Eights
Who I want to win: Aces and Eights
Who I think will win: Aces and Eights
Who won: Aces and Eights
Record: 6/7

OK, this match floored me. Not the match itself, which was lackluster at best, but the reveal at the end. I fully expected A&8 to win, otherwise what’s the point of the storyline? But Devon? Seriously?

Bully Ray did a decent job acting surprised and horrified there, gotta give him credit. And I really, really loved Bully coming out with the face paint, which was a nice touch. I kept waiting for him to turn on Sting, though, have to be honest. This took me WAY by surprise. Kudos to TNA for keeping things interesting.

Match #8 – World Heavyweight Championship
Austin Aries (c) vs Jeff Hardy
Who I want to win: Austin Aries
Who I think will win: Jeff Hardy
Who won: Jeff Hardy
Record: 7/8

Aries actually got a big pop when this match started, despite TNA trying to push him as a heel or tweener lately. And this continued through the match, which makes me happy. (I’m not a fan of Hardy.) A Double seems to be very popular with the fans in Phoenix. This match shows why; both of these guys gave a great performance.

I really had a feeling Hardy would win, and he did. I’m seeing a feud between him and A Double for several months. Unfortunately, I think TNA will try to push Aries as a heel now; personally I think he works a lot better as the cocky face. But hey, what do I know?

Hardy as champ makes me sad. I don’t like him, I don’t like his gimmick, I hope TNA gives it to someone (ANYONE) else soon. OK, sure, Robbie E would be worse. But that’s the only one I can think of who would be. ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?43909-Bound-for-Glory-Review-October-14-2012 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?43517-WWE-TNA-Good-Guys-and-Bad-Guys Tue, 21 Aug 2012 05:14:02 GMT I'm just going to comment here on the whole good guy /bad guy dynamic that's working out in WWE and TNA, because I think it's fascinating.

WWE

Main event material, you have CM Puk v John Cena. Again. Punk solidified himself as a bad guy on the 8/20 Raw with his attack on Lawler. People are still cheering him though. What does this mean?

Predictions. Punk will lose the title to Cena. Cena will overcome multiple challenges by Punk, until Punk becomes irrelevant. Cena will go on to the next super contender. (I think they may be grooming Ryback, don't hate me for saying that.) Punk will go back to midcard (did he ever really leave?) Sadness for wrestling fans the world over.

People may dislike my suggesting that Punk has always been a midcarder. I do not say this on the basis of his abilities, but on the basis of WWE booking. He hasn't been main event for ... a long time. Cena must have some good lung power.

WWE has had some decent blurring of the line between good guy and bad guy ... but with the events of the 8/20 RAW, casting Punk as a "good guy" is untenable.

TNA


Aries beat Roode, great Now we have the Aces and Eight's faction as the big bad guy that even the 'bad guys' are worried about (eg. Bully Ray who, by some tallys, is a fan favorite). Unless they have some super-guy as the leader, this is going to fall short, I think. They've built this up over several weeks and they need to deliver big time. Make up for the Claire Lynch debacle.

Who ARE these guys? Don't look at it from an informed internet fan, but from a regular TV fan ... you have no idea. Even the informed internet fans can be surprised. They're all wearing masks, could they switch out people at a moment's notice? Duh, YEAH! If you think you know who they are ... you could be wrong.

Some have compared this to the Nexus. I think they're wrong in that comparison. Why? In the Nexus, we knew who they were. We knew their motivations. With A&8's, we don' t know anything. THAT is what makes TNA better right now with their storylines.

DISCLAIMER: I watch both WWE and TNA, I love pro wrestling in general. I think that I see the weaknesses and strengths in all brands. I watched ROH until it got pulled from my cable. I've been watching since before WM1, so belly up kids. ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?43517-WWE-TNA-Good-Guys-and-Bad-Guys http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41034-TNA-iMPACT-8-March-2012 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:18:08 GMT TNA 8 March 2012 Show opens with a recap of Eric Bischoff and Ric Flair warning Garrett Bischoff not to show up next week (happened last week). ... TNA 8 March 2012

Show opens with a recap of Eric Bischoff and Ric Flair warning Garrett Bischoff not to show up next week (happened last week). Cut to a shot of Garrett driving up to the arena. How many people are surprised at this? How many people are tired of this storyline? (Raises hand.)

Show main arena with Eric, Ric and Gunner entering the ring to Flair’s music. Eric addresses the audience and says that he asked Sting to let Gunner and a partner of his choosing face Garrett and a partner of HIS choosing later on that night, to bring an end to this. It’s not going to bring an end to this as long as TNA keeps forcing this down our throats. PLEASE.

Kurt Angle’s music hits, and he comes out as the partner of Gunner. Eric almost creams his pants with excitation. Crowd starts chanting “Hardy” … and I agree with them that Hardy will probably be Garrett’s partner.
Cut to Sting being crazy talking to a mirror. Enter Eric Young who asks Sting’s blessing for something with ODB. Sting says that she wants the tag team titles, but Eric says that she doesn’t have a partner. Sting says that Eric will be her partner, then smears paint on Eric and send him off. Sting goes back talking to the mirror (pretending it is Bobby Roode) into the commercial.

Returning from the commercial, EY and ODB enter the ring followed by Madison Rayne and Gail Kim in semi-matching red outfits. Both look pretty hot, and if I hadn’t been watching Internet porn an hour ago my pants would be off.

Match: Madison Rayne/Gail Kim v ODB/Eric Young
Who I want to win: ODB/Young
Who I think will win: Rayne/Kim

This is actually kind of a difficult decision for me. On the one hand, I think it’d be humorous to see Eric as one half of the Women’s Tag Team Champions. They haven’t really been doing anything with the titles lately anyhow. It would also give some heat to the championship match coming up between Rayne and Kim, with each blaming the other for losing the tag titles. (If that happens, I’m predicting that it will be Rayne who gets pinned.)

On the other hand, I’m not sure where they would go with EY and ODB as women’s champions. Unless creative has something awesome planned, I think the storyline there could flounder. Rayne and Kim as tag team champions feuding over the women’s belt would make for some nice moments though. So again, I’m not sure which way they’ll go.
Match starts with Eric trying to hook up with the referee. (Not “hook up” as in dinner and drinks but “hook up” as in wrestling.) Finally he turns his attention to Kim who taunts him and wants him to hit her. Being a gentleman, EY tags in ODB, who dominates Kim for a few minutes. Kim smashes ODB into the corner and tags in Rayne. As EY keeps the ref’s attention, Rayne and Kim double-team ODB for a bit.

ODB finally makes it to the corner to tag EY in, who immediately goes after the ref again. He sets Kim up on the corner turnbuckle, then dodges a rush by Rayne. He gets Rayne up over his shoulders and then Kim on top of her (not well sold, it looked like she lay down on Rayne by herself), then goes into an airplane spin. He drops them both to the mat and staggers around, dizzy himself from the spin, then goes for a pin on Kim but is interrupted by Rayne.

Kim and Rayne go to double-team EY but are stopped by ODB who clotheslines them both and pulls Rayne out of the ring. ODB goes to throw Rayne into the ring steps but it is reversed by Rayne. In the ring, Kim is slapping EY and jeering at him. Outside the ring, Rayne grabs a title belt while in the ring, Eric takes off his pants (don’t worry, he has trunks on underneath!) He locks up with Kim, then is hit from behind with the belt by Rayne. When he is hit from behind, however, he falls directly on top of Kim in a … shall we say, somewhat suggestive pose rather similar to some I’d seen about an hour so ago watching porn on the Internet.

ODB grabs Rayne’s feet from behind to keep her from interfering while Kim writes in orgasmic delight … er, I mean, flails around trying to throw EY off … while the ref finally notices what’s going on and counts the three for NEW knockout’s tag team champions: EY and ODB! EY doesn’t appear to be in much of a hurry to get off of Kim (hell, I know I wouldn’t be) until the ref rolls him off of her.

Winner: ODB/EY (my record: 0/1)

So, I was wrong about just about everything. It was an entertaining if not particularly “good” (in the wrestling purist sense) match. I am looking forward to where they’re going to take this. I really hope where they take this doesn’t suck.

On the replay of the ending, I could almost swear I saw EY grinding his crotch into Kim while he has her pinned. I hope she told Robert Irvine that this was going to happen!! :rolleyes:

Post-match, EY drops to one knee, pulls out a ring, and … we go to commercial.

After the commercial, EY and ODB are in the same position but EY has somehow grown a microphone in his hand. He says that they have a great deal of momentum, are champs, are in love, and … proposes in the middle of the squared circle. ODB turns for a moment, then turns back and drops to one knee then also proposes. EY screams “YES” … and the two end up rolling on the mat in an embrace.

Cut to entrance, where someone called Joseph Park says to the gate guard that he is there to see the Impact officials. (Seriously, at first glance, this guy looks a lot like Penn from that magician duo Penn and Teller.) The announcers wonder who he is. Cut to Bully Ray who says that Storm isn’t making it to Lockdown because of him. He then says that Sting “will do the right thing tonight.”

Cut to Austin Aries. He says that Sting made a title match tonight between Aries and Zima Ion. Aries asks if he really wants to do it tonight instead of at the PPV, give it away on free TV. He says that this is another of Sting’s bad business decisions, that he will beat Ion tonight and then the money match will be off for the PPV, and Aries won’t be wrestling at the PPV. He then says that tonight he’ll show Sting what “Showtime!” is all about, then walks off into the commercial.

Match: Austin Aries v Zema Ion
Who I want to win: Aries
Who I think will win: Ion

This is another tough one. Honestly, either one of them could come out on top. I want Aries to win because I like him and his character better than Ion, but having Ion win tonight could set up a rematch between the two at the PPV. I have a hunch that's the way they're going. That would make it really interesting, as the two haven’t faced each other much one-on-one lately. Aries is a better cheater, though, so he might win.

The two come out, Ion with his hairspray and Aries with his cape. They lock up and Aries get the better of Ion at first, then Ion takes control. It goes back and forth for a while, both missing big aerial moves. Ion is knocked to the mat near his corner, and takes the chance to slip his can of hair spray into his trunks. (Really? Does the ref think Ion gets that big of a hard-on from wrestling Aries? I mean, Aries is a good-looking guy and all, and Ion does seem to be a bit sexually effeminate … so yeah, I guess, maybe.)

The ref gets knocked down after a tussle in the corner, Ion pulls out the hairspray and goes to spray Aries. Aries ducks out of the way, kicks Ion and grabs the hairspray and sprays Ion in the face. The recovering ref sees this and calls for the bell, giving Ion the win by DQ.

Winner: Zema Ion (my record: 1/1)

Not exactly how I expected Ion to win, and he doesn’t come away with the belt.

Cut to Velvet Sky being approached by Park who asks to speak to her privately. He reveals that he is the brother of Abyss, and asks if Sky knows anything about where Abyss has gotten to. Sky denies any knowledge and we go to commercial.

Return to Bully Ray in the ring showing off his calves again. He says that he took out James Storm and scrambled Storm’s redneck brains. (His words, not mine.) Ray says the he deserves to be the number one contender and asks Sting to come out and make it official. Sting does come out, acting all crazy and playing up the Insane Icon gimmick.

The two argue back and forth for a bit, Ray insisting that he wants Bobby Rude, then Sting agrees that Ray can have Rude. As Sting walks out, he says that Ray can have Rude and it’ll be right after (yet another!) commercial, which we are then treated to.

After the commercial, Rude argues backstage with Sting saying that he’s not ready, but Sting insists that the match go forward.

Match: Bully Ray v Bobby Roode
Who I want to win: Roode
Who I think will win: Roode

It would completely screw up the main event at the PPV if Roode loses the belt before then. If Ray does win, the only way that it could be salvaged would be to turn it into a three-way with Roode, Storm and Ray (which I’m not ruling out). However, I don’t think that’s what’s going to happen. A lot of fans want to see Roode and Storm go at it one on one again. (And by “a lot” I mean “me.”) On the other hand, it’s unclear whether this is a title match or not.

Roode attempts to talk Ray out of the match, but Ray tells him to take off his belt and get ready to fight. A “kick his ass” chant comes up from the crowd, and I don’t think they’re talking to Roode. The two lock up, and it goes back and forth for a bit. Roode keeps trying to beg off and get Ray to stop. The announcers keep talking about how Garrett will have a hard time finding a partner. (Even in kayfabe, guys, come on; Hardy wants Angle, he’ll jump at the opportunity.)

The match keeps going back and forth, with a few near-falls. The two start trading blows and Ray takes over on Roode for a bit. Roode comes back and spears Ray to the mat for a two-count. Roode slips out and grabs Ray’s chain, but is floored by Ray before he can use it and drops it. Ray picks up the chain and stalks Roode, ignoring the referee, but is interrupted by James Storm coming in and chasing him out of the ring. Ray backs up the ramp as Storm delivers a Last Call to Roode, who is just regaining his feet. Storm asks for the title belt and kisses it before draping it over Roode’s prone body.

The match-ending bell was never rung and a winner was never announced, so I’m guessing it was a No Contest. I’m not going to include those in my records of matches I called correctly or incorrectly, just because … well, because I don’t want to.

Winner: No Contest (my record: 1/1)

Cut to Garrett talking about Gunner and Angle. He says that he’s asked someone to be his partner and no he won’t say who it is. Go to commercial.

Return to Park asking Matt Morgan and Crimson about Abyss. The two deny any knowledge about his whereabouts. Park leaves, and the pair talk about their upcoming match, saying that they’re going to put the loss behind them, although his comments do make it seem like Crimson thinks that Morgan was mostly responsible for the loss.

Match: Robbie E/Robbie T v Matt Morgan/Crimson
Who I want to win: Morgan/Crimson
Who I think will win: Morgan/Crimson

I cannot even envision a future in which the Robbsey Twins have tag team gold. It’s enough of an affront to have Robbie E as the TV champ. Tonight, believe it or not, the Twins come out in matching pink and white sweater tops with black and green trunks.

This is a number one contenders’ match, which makes me wonder why the Twins are involved. Have they really tagged together that often? Crimson starts off against Twin E and quickly takes control, but then Twin T is tagged in and things get a bit rougher and more physical.

The Twins actually work reasonably well as a tag team, and set up a number of double-team moves on Crimson. Crimson slams Twin T and both tag out. Morgan smashes Twin E and takes out Twin T while he’s at it. Morgan hits the Carbon Footprint on Twin E, but then Crimson tags himself in and covers Twin E for the win.

Winner: Morgan/Crimson (my record: 2/1)

Cut to AJ Styles talking about Kazarian and Daniels, who says that he’s figured out how to handle them and that they’re not going to like it. Go to commercial.

Return to a recap of last week’s gauntlet match, then go live to AJ coming to the ring. He enters the ring, gets a microphone, then starts to speak before he is drowned out by the “AJ” chants. He then starts talking about the upcoming 10^th anniversary of TNA, which prompts some “TNA” chants. He talks a bit about the history of TNA and himself before being interrupted by Daniels (accompanied by Kazarian).

Daniels says that he came back to the company to stand by AJ’s side, but while his friendship got AJ fortune and fame, all the friendship got for Daniels was fired. That’s why he’s putting himself first now, and he encouraged Kazarian to do the same thing. He then hands to mic to Kazarian.

Kaz says that everyone has turned their back on AJ because he’s transparent and gullible and trusts people he shouldn’t trust. Maybe the problem isn’t with the people who have turned their backs on AJ, maybe the problem is with AJ. AJ says that he doesn’t see any friends out here, just some lying backstabbing pricks. So he won’t associate himself with friends anymore, he’s just going to associate himself with a real … (seems at a loss for words) … a real …

(From the back) “ASSHOLE!” Hit Mr. Anderson’s music, and out he comes. AJ and Anderson start to pummel Daniels and Kazarian, dragging them both into the ring before unceremoniously tossing them out on their asses.

Cut to Garrett knocking on a door and asking an unseen person whether he’s ready to go, then saying “OK, I’ll see you out there” before walking away. Gee, I can't imagine who that might have been. Cut to commercial.

On the return, we see Gunner and Angle come to the ring to boos from the crowd. Garrett comes out to a mild pop from the crowd. He pauses on the ramp, and behind him the music for Jeff Hardy hits. The announcers make a valiant attempt at pretending to be surprised.

Match: Gunner/Kurt Angle v Garrett Bischoff/Jeff Hardy
Who I want to win: Gunner/Angle
Who I think will win: Bischoff/Hardy

I dislike Hardy and his gimmick, I don’t think Garrett is worth much either, so I do want Gunner and Angle to win. I think that creative will give the victory to Garrett and Hardy though.

Angle and Gunner rush Garrett and Hardy as the bell rings, knocking Garrett out of the ring. The match starts with Angle and Hardy. Angle beats Hardy down for a while (with occasional help from Gunner outside the ring). Angle and Hardy are down, and Gunner rushes across the ring to take out Garrett. Angle eventually tags in Gunner while keeping Hardy trapped, and Gunner continues the beat down on Hardy, who tries unsuccessfully to mount a comeback. Gunner and Angle continue to keep Hardy away from his corner and the tag. (Why? If I were – kayfabe – Angle and Gunner, I would WANT the less experienced and weaker member of the opposing team in the ring. Of course, by wearing down Hardy, they may think that they’re neutralizing the bigger threat first.)

The announcers say that a match for next week will be Mr. Anderson v Christopher Daniels. (Yay!)

Hardy keeps getting massacred for quite a long time until he rolls up Angle to a pin. Unfortunately, the ref is involved with keeping Garrett and Gunner apart and doesn’t notice, allowing Angle to escape. Gunner gets Hardy in a sleeper hold, but Hardy escapes and hits a high risk move off of the top turnbuckle. The ref goes outside the ring to keep Angle and Garrett apart (when will Garrett figure out the basics of this “sport?”) Finally, Hardy tags Garrett in against Angle and Garrett starts a beat down on the Olympic champion. (Yes, that sounds as ridiculous to me as it does to you.)

Garrett drop kicks Gunner off of the ring apron, does a DDT on Angle and goes for the pin but is interrupted by Gunner. Angle and Gunner toss Garrett into the ropes and Hardy slips in a blind tag. Garrett clotheslines both Angle and Gunner, then Hardy hits a Swanton Bomb onto Angle and pins him for the win. Hardy and Garrett celebrate in the ring, and Hardy takes off his shirt to lots of high-pitched squealing from the audience girlie girls.

Winner: Bischoff/Hardy (my record: 3/1)

Fade out. ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41034-TNA-iMPACT-8-March-2012 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41031-TNA-iMPACT-1-March-2012 Fri, 09 Mar 2012 05:59:59 GMT (I know, this is a week old, but computer problems prevented me from getting this up in a timely fashion.) *TNA 1 March 2012* The show again... (I know, this is a week old, but computer problems prevented me from getting this up in a timely fashion.)

TNA 1 March 2012

The show again opens with a recap of the events between Sting and Bobby Roode, leading up to Sting’s announcement of the two having a match against each other Victory Road. Cut to Angle saying that he hates Jeff Hardy for so many reasons that he has cue cards listing them and he’ll go out to ring and tell everybody why.

Impact Wrestling’s intro shows, then Angle’s music hits and he comes out. Kurt lists his reasons. He says Jeff Hardy has lots of hair and he doesn’t, but having colored hair does not make you a champion. He complains about the way Hardy dresses, that Hardy is more popular with the fans than he is, and number one that even though Angle has action figures and posters and such, his son has all of Hardy’s action figures and posters and T-shirts, and wears make up and wears socks on his arms like Hardy. He finishes his rant and calls Hardy out.

Hardy comes out and Angle challenges him to a match at Victory Road. Hardy thinks about it for a second, then slaps Angle and tackles him to the ground and the two tussle for a bit until it gets broken up by management.
Cut to a shot of Bobby Roode complaining about what Sting did to him last week. Austin Aries comes up from behind, Roode notices him and they start talking. Aries says they both dress well, enjoy a fine glass of wine, and are the most dominant men in their division. He says that Sting is keeping down the X-Division, that they haven’t had any main events, and he’s about had enough. Roode has an idea, asks for a few minutes of Aries’ time, and they go off-screen to discuss whatever Roode thinks. I’m wondering if Roode v Aries later tonight or Aries getting into the Victory Road match and making it a three-way. Or maybe a handicap Roode/Aries v Sting, tonight or at the PPV.

The announcers promote the gauntlet match between Styles and Daniels/Kazarian coming up next, and after we break for commercial, the latter two come to the ring and pose and taunt the crowd. Styles comes out to a decent pop. Styles proposes that if he wins the match, Daniels tells the entire world what it is that he’s holding over Kazarian. Daniels responds by saying that they don’t have to capitulate to any demands AJ has, but they Kazarian grabs the mic and agrees to AJ’s suggestion. Daniels appears a bit frustrated.

Match: Styles v Daniels (first part)
Who I think will win: Styles
Who I want to win: Styles

It would just completely ruin the idea of a gauntlet match to have the first guy beat him straight out of the gate, so I’m going with Styles on this. Styles attacks Daniels outside the ring before the bell rings, throws Daniels into the ring, then gets into the ring himself to start pummeling Daniels. Styles has the upper hand for the first part of the match until the commercial.

On the return from the commercial, Styles is still dominating Daniels. Aj for some reason goes outside the ring to argue with Kazarian, giving Daniels an opening to attack from behind and gain the upper hand. Daniels has the upper hand for a bit until Styles hits him with the pele kick, at which point both are down for a few seconds, then on getting up Styles starts to take back control. Styles goes for the Clash, but Daniels fights out hits a few of his own moves to shut Styles down momentarily. Daniels staggers to the corner while Kazarian sneaks into the ring and hits the Fade to Black on Styles. Daniels seems surprised and starts yelling at Kazarian. The ref announces that Daniels has been disqualified.

Not exactly how I thought the match would end, but it works.

Winner: Styles (my record: 1/1)

Match: Styles v Kazarian (second part)
Who I think will win: Kazarian
Who I want to win: Styles

The next match starts immediately and Kazarian covers Daniels for the easy win. I was hoping Styles would kick out and at least do something, but no luck. I guess they’re saving the big “reveal” for a PPV or something.

Winner: Kazarian (my record: 2/2)

Post-match, Daneils still seems a bit put out by Kazarian’s actions, though personally I think they were pretty effective.

Cut backstage to Maidson Raynes hanging a poster of Gail Kim on the wall. Gail comes in and approves of the posters, then says she got Madisona gift: a spa day for the two of them, which excites Madison. But they can’t do that until tomorrow because there’s another gift that Gail got Madison: a match later that night with ODB. Gail then leaves to Madison’s somewhat less-than-grateful protests about the match part of the gifts.

Match: ODB v Madison Rayne
Who I want to win: ODB
Who I think will win: Rayne

Rayne and Gail go to the ring, then ODB and Eric come out. Match starts and Rayne takes the offensive for a few seconds until ODB starts pounding her into the turnbuckles. Eric jumps up to the corner and goes for a tag. (Gotta love him!) ODB runs over Madison for several minutes, but then Gail “tries” to interfere for Rayne but claims that she dropped the belt by accident and couldn’t get there in time. ODB pins Rayne for the win.
Decent build-up of heat between Gail and Rayne. It seems that TNA is having a lot of heel v heel competition lately (Gail/Rayne, Aries/Ion, Bully/Roode, etc.) Personally, I think that’s a good thing. I don’t like seeing “all good guys” constantly going against “all bad guys.”

Winner: ODB (my record: 2/3)

Cut to Bully Ray complaining to an unhappy-looking woman in glasses about James Storm and what he’s been doing lately. Roode and Aries come in and the woman takes that chance to walk quickly away. The three of them argue for a bit about who’s been embarrassed more in the last few weeks, then agree that it’s Sting who’s behind it all. The invite Bully to be a part of whatever they have planned, then exit stage right.

Cut to a short scene with Velvet Sky complaining on an interview and then getting roughed up by Angelina and Sarita. Go to commercial.

Return to the full context of the previous scene: Velvet is complaining about getting screwed out of the number one contendership by Madison Rayne. Then Angelina and Sarita come out and start in on her, but Sky fights back for a few seconds until getting beat down by them. Mickie James comes in for the save, thus setting up the Knockouts tag-team match for later this evening.

Cut to Ric Flair, with Eric Bischoff and Gunner at his side, berating Garrett Bischoff for still being around in Impact Wrestling. He tells Garrett that Hogan is out of the country and because he’s a nice guy he’s just going to say if Garrett shows up there next week then it “goes to a whole new level.” Garrett says that he hears him, but he’s his own man and appreciates the heads up, then walks off.

Brief shot with Aries, Roode and Bully walking somewhere together. Cut to commercial. Maybe a six-man tag-team match? Aries/Roode/Bully v Sting/Storm/somebody (I’ll guess Hardy if it goes this way, with Angle getting involved).

Return to Aries/Roode/Bully going to the ring (to Roode’s music). Roode says that he’s the reason why people are watching this show, then proceeds to insult Sting, and proceeds to say that there is no way that there is going to be a match between the two of them at Victory Road because “I am done.” Bully gets the mic and says that he had been blaming Storm but A Double and Roode convinced him that Sting was the real culprit. Bully shows a clip of Brandon Jacobs putting him through a table, which gets a small “New York Giants” chant going from the crowd. He then says that he and his calves are also done.

Aries gets the mic, says that he’s been watching everything for the past few weeks and he sees what’s going on. Sting doesn’t know when to get out of the spotlight, he’s jealous because Roode is a better champion than Sting ever was, etc. Aries says that two things have followed him all his career: pissed-off people and championship belts. “And oops, I did it again.” (I’m sorry, that was worth at least a chuckle!) He says that he’s done too.
All three of them sit down in the ring and just do nothing. Bully says that they’re just going to sit there and they ain’t moving. Lights go out for a second, then come back up to reveal Sting in the ring. He says that he said he was done to stir the pot a little. He tells Roode and Aries that if they’re done then the titles will be stripped from them, then tells Ray that if he points his finger in Sting’s face one more time then he’ll bit it off. He reminds them that if they don’t have a job, then they don’t have a paycheck.
He agrees with Aries that he hasn’t been in any main events but Sting will change that tonight, he’s putting Aries in the main event tagging with Roode and Bully. Their opponents will be the tag team champions – “Magnus and Joe’s gonna kill you!” – and their partner James Storm. (So I was kinda close.)

Lights go out for a second again, when they come back up, Sting is gone. Cut to commercial.

Return from commercial to a bit about Jesse Sorenson and his mother. Jesse says he’s not giving up, he wants to get back to the Impact Zone. Cut to Zima Ion, who says that he doesn’t regret what happened to Jesse, wrestling is not ballet and people get hurt, people are now taking him seriously. I think he’s playing up this heel persona very well, even if his personal feelings are different.

Match: Shannon Moore v Zema Ion
Who I want to win: Moore
Who I think will win: Moore

I have a feeling that they’re going to build up a feud between Moore and Ion, so letting Moore get the win at this point would be good. Then they could have Ion win the belt and Moore then challenges him for it, saying that he’s beat Ion before and can do it again. The only kink here is what that will mean for Aries. So I’m not 100% sure about this, but that’s just my gut feeling.

Moore and Ion trade offense pretty evenly at the start of the match, both blatantly grabbing at each others’ hair. Then Ion hits Moore with a missile drop kick off of the top turnbuckle and follows up with a few smashes into the corner. Ion goes up to the top turnbuckle again, but takes too long playing to the crowd and Moore dazes him with a shot to the stomach then gets up on top himself and flips Ion down to the ring. Moore covers Ion for a two-count. Moore misses a moonsault, then Ion hits a few moves on Moore and pins him for the win.

Looks like I was wrong. I’m not sure why Moore loses so much, they do need to get a decent face in the X Division who can actually win a few matches. They might be setting Aries up for a face turn, but I hope not; I really like his arrogant heel persona.

Winner: Ion (my record: 2/4)

Cut to commercial. Return to a promo interviewing fans about why TNA is good.

Match: Angelina/Sarita v Velvet Sky/Mickie James
Who I want to win: Sky/Mickie
Who I think will win: Sky/Mickie

Since Sky lost the number one contendership to Madison Rayne in a somewhat controversial way, I think they’ll set her up to be the next challenger for the belt. (Then again, I was wrong in the previous match, so what do I know?) Getting a win, even as part of a tag team, might be a good start for that push.

The teams come out, Sky comes out last and rushes the ring to take down and start pounding on Angelina. Mickie follows her in and starts on Sarita. The bell eventually rings and starts out with Sky and Angelina. After a few moments, Mickie and Sarita get tagged in. Sarita distracts the referee while Angelina tries to beat on Mickie in the corner, but Angelina gets knocked to the floor. Mickie gets thrown out to the floor, and Sarita hits a cross-ring dive through the ropes. The ref is trying to get Sky back to the corner while Angelina and Sarita beat down Mickie, then throw her back into the ring and Sarita goes for the pin.

Mickie kicks out, and Sarita tags in Angelina. Angelina smashes Mickie into the corner, pounds on her a bit until Micke fights out of the ring. Angeline lays out Mickie and tags in Sarita, who gets Mickie in a submission move then beats Mickie down some more. Both of them are down after Sarita is suplexed, then both Sky and Angelina are tagged in. Sky beats down Angelina and goes for the pin, but it is broken up by Sarita. Micke gets involved and takes Sarita to the floor, while in the ring Angelina misses a high boot and is caught by Sky in a face plant. Sky covers Angelina for the win.

Winner: Sky/Mickie (my record: 3/5)

Interview with Storm, Joe and Magnus saying that they are going to beat Roode, Ray and Aries down. Cut to commercial.

Return to scene reminding fans that Abyss is still missing. The announcers say that the company got a letter from the family of Abyss asking for any information about where he was. The show his match from 1/8/12 (Genesis) where he beat Bully Ray, followed by a scene of Bully Ray beating him down backstage, and then denying any knowledge of his whereabouts. Could be a set-up for the return of Abyss, if not tonight then in the next few weeks. I’m thinking that he’ll either return at Victory Road or slightly before to get another match with Bully Ray.

Match: Bully Ray/Bobby Roode/Austin Aries v James Storm/Magnus/Samoa Joe
Who I want to win: Storm/Magnus/Joe
Who I think will win: Ray/Roode/Aries

I’m thinking that the bad guys will win here to establish them as firm threats, and possibly propel Aries into fighting beyond the X Division. I’m not ruling out any outside interference, though, and I think if anything it’ll help Storm/Magnus/Joe. Possibilities include Angle coming out to interfere but being thwarted by Hardy, or Abyss returning. While TNA usually takes longer to set up their storylines than that, I think it’s still possible. In the end, I think letting Storm/Magnus/Joe win will do little to help further any of the storylines, though post-match actions may prove me wrong.

Starts out with Aries and Magnus. Aries does a bit of showboating as usual (one of the best in the business for my money), then Ray and Storm get tagged in. Storm tags in Joe, and Joe and Ray trade power moves for a bit. Ray tags in Aries who is pretty much steamrolled by the tag team champs, and he does an excellent job of selling it. Tags and fighting go back and forth for a while, with Roode pretty consistently avoiding Storm for most of the match. Eventually, though, it turns into a free-for-all- brawl, lots of finishing moves get hit, and Storm catches Roode with the Last Call for the pin.

Winner: Storm/Magnus/Joe (my record: 3/6)

Even though I was wrong on the outcome, however, I think this was a pretty good match.

After the match, Joe appears to be down and hurt in the corner and Magnus is kneeling by him, checking on him. Storm is ejaculating beer onto the audience in another corner when Ray sneaks in with a chair. He lays out Magnus first then goes after Storm, whom he knocks out. He then stands over Storm and says that Storm won’t make it to Lockdown because Ray will take him out and then take his “good friend” Roode’s title. Fade out to end the show.

Overall not a bad presentation, but not one of their best. I did enjoy the last 6-man match, it was really good. Ion is building his heel persona incredibly well also, I look forward to big things from this boy (though whether or not they’ll be big botches again is an open question). ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41031-TNA-iMPACT-1-March-2012 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?40829-TNA-23-February-2012 Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:02:15 GMT Opening video of Bobby Rude’s recent acts. Cut to Rude entering the ring, to the apparent displeasure of the crowd. We are reminded on-screen of... Opening video of Bobby Rude’s recent acts. Cut to Rude entering the ring, to the apparent displeasure of the crowd. We are reminded on-screen of Sting's tweet this past week reading simply “I’M DONE,” and a promise that Sting will be present to address that.

Rude starts out by saying that Sting has quit and is leaving because of Rude. He runs down his own accomplishments, starting with winning the WHC, but says that ending Sting’s career is the greatest accomplishment of his life.

Backstage scene with Matt Morgan and Crimson arguing over the loss of the Tag Team belts, but they agree to go out and get the belts back as a team.

Match: Samoa Joe/Magnus (champions) v Matt Morgan/Crimson
Who I think will win: Joe/Magnus
Who I want to win: Joe/Magnus

I think the team of Matt Morgan and Crimson is quickly breaking down without the belts, and we really need to see these two go at each other. Eventually they may recombine to take back the belts but for now it’s more interesting to see them fight.

Crimson and Morgan start out on the offensive, and Magnus gets tossed out of the ring. Morgan and Joe start the match proper off with a few high-impact moves, then tags Crimson in. Joe fights Crimson off and tags in Magnus. Back and forth it goes, until Morgan and Crimson come at Joe from opposite corners, Joe ducks out of the way, and Crimson knocks Morgan for a loop. Joe tosses Crimson out of the ring, Joe and Magnus hit their finishing combo and pin Morgan.

Winner: Joe/Magnus (my score: 1/0)

Video recap of Brandon Jacobs (NY Giants running back) last week on Impact and we are told he will be on next, after the commercial.

Brandon Jacobs comes out to a mediocre pop from the crowd. He says that he probably shouldn’t have crossed the rail, but Bully Ray shouldn’t have spit in his face. He’s back this week to let Bully know that he’s in Bully’s backyard again, one more time. Brandon calls Bully out and wants to face him one on one. Bully comes out and says “Settle down for a minute Brenda … I mean Brandon.” He runs down Jacobs, and a pretty good “Brandon Jacobs” chant gets going. Bully says that he has a tag team match later on and isn’t going to waste his time on a guy who only got 59 yards in the Super Bowl and didn’t even score a touchdown, so he’ll stay where he is and keep running Jacobs down. Brandon says that if Bully is going to say there, then he will just have to come to Bully. He climbs out of the ring and chases Bully backstage as we cut to commercial.

We return to see Jacobs walking backstage looking for Bully. He is stopped by James Storm who asks him if he wants Bully Ray. Brandon says he does, and they are joined by Jeff Hardy. A quick whispering between the three and some sort of agreement is reached; the three walk off. I’m guessing Brandon replaced Hardy in the match.

Now, I’m usually not much into having non-wrestlers get involved in wrestling matches. WWE’s long-running series of “celebrity guest hosts” on RAW was pretty dismal, if I may say so myself. Let’s not even start talking about David Arquette. On the other hand, Jacobs is at least marginally believable and HAS to be better than Snooki. Or Drew Carey.

Match: Zima Ion v Alex Shelley
Who I want to win: Shelley
Who I think will win: Ion

I think it’s a mistake having Ion on and reminding people who caused Sorenson’s injury so much. On the other hand, it’s a good way to build up massive heat against this guy. Seeing as how they let him “steal” the pin from Aries last week, I think they’re building him as a pretty classic heel. Not sure what they’re going to do with Aries though, as the rivalry between these two is getting heated. Either turn Aries face or go heel v heel storyline. Both sound interesting.

Ion beats down Shelley and starts to use his hair spray to get prettier. Aries comes out from the back, wearing the X-division belt and carrying a big box of popcorn and a glass of wine. This distracts Ion and Shelley is able to get the upper hand. Aries sits down on a chair at ringside and eats his popcorn. The actions spills out onto the floor, and Ion slips his hair spray into his tights, seen by everybody except the referee. Ion knocks Shelley toward the corner, almost colliding with the referee who cowers in fear while not seeing Ion spray the hair spray into Shelley’s eyes then toss it out of the ring. Ion knocks Shelley around a few seconds then covers him for the win. Aries just walks away, shaking his head.

Winner: Zima Ion (my score: 2/0)

Video recap of Garrett Bischoff with Hogan against Gunner with Eric Bischoff, followed by an “interview” with Garrett followed by Hogan coming in and warning him about Eric. Cut to Madison Rayne talking about Sting and Gail Kim.

Match: ODB v Gail Kim
Who I want to win: Gail Kim
Who I think will win: Gail Kim

I’ve always liked Gail Kim, no secret there. I think her monopoly of the women’s championships is, while arguably undeserved, at least somewhat interesting and gives some great opportunity for plotlines down the road. Not very far down the road hopefully; it is starting to get a wee bit old. On the other hand, I think that having BOTH the men’s and women’s tag teams fighting each other at the same time might smack of running out of ideas, so I really hope they don’t do that.

ODB comes out with Eric Young. Gail Kim comes out without Madison Rayne. Kim makes fun of ODB’s attire and appearance, and gets manhandled (womanhandled?) as a result. Kim fights back and takes control for a bit, then gets ODB into that octopus submission hold. ODB drops Kim to the match to break the hold, but then gets clotheslined while charging at Kim in the corner. Rayne comes out, distracting Kim. Eric Young pours some of the contents of ODB’s ever-present flask down her throat while the referee isn’t watching. ODB appears to gain new life and runs over Kim a few times, then pins her with a Lou Thesz press out of the corner. Kim kicks out and fights off ODB’s attempt at slam to hit the Eat De Feet for the win.

Winner: Gail Kim (my score: 3/0)

Interview with AJ Styles regarding Kazarian and Daniels, AJ says he’s done with that. He’s going to put that behind him and focus on the WHC.

Video package of Sorenson’s injury, talking with Sorenson’s mom and Jesse’s comments. Tenay comments that Sorenson has been released from the hospital and is now at home recovering. Hope he gets better soon, bad injury.

Match: AJ Styles v Robbie E (champ)
Who I want to win: AJ Styles
Who I think will win: AJ Styles

Yes, believe it! A TV championship match! Even though I hate Robbie E, I am willing to put up with him one more time to see him get squashed by AJ Styles. And I do think that will happen; AJ is an infinitely better wrestler and even as a heel he got more heat than Robbie E. Plus I think that AJ having the title will make it worth something again instead of the joke it’s been for quite some time now. We might even get some actually good competition for it. Don’t get me wrong, I like Eric Young, but his reign was mediocre at best.

AJ takes Robbie to school in the early part of the match. Robbie slides out of the ring, and then hides behind Rob Terry. AJ follows him, is blocked by Terry, and Robbie slides back into the ring, catching AJ as he follows him. Robbie mounts a minor offense, and then AJ gets hit by Terry from outside the ring. Robbie starts showboating and hits AJ with a drop from the ropes. AJ recovers and fights back, showing Robbie why he is the Phenomenal One. Terry jumps up at ringside when AJ goes for the Styles clash, distracting the referee and Styles, allowing Robbie to jump AJ from behind. After a few hits, AJ hits Robbie with the Pele kick and lays him out. He goes outside the ring ropes for a springboard splash, but is interrupted when Kazarian and Daniels come to ringside (dammit, I should have seen this coming) and Kazarian pulls him off, running him into the ring post. Daniels, for some reason, seems surprised by Kazarian’s actions.

Winner: Robbie E by DQ (my score: 3/1)

Match: Bully Ray/Kurt Angle v James Storm/Jeff Hardy
Who I want to win: Storm/Hardy
Who I think will win: Storm/Hardy

Again, as I said earlier, I think Brandon will replace Hardy, and of course celebrities (almost) always get the win.

Ray and Angle come out to their intros. Ray again shows off his calves. (Note: I have bigger calves than Ray. But only because I’m a fat old guy whose legs swell.) Storm and Hardy come out. This is announced as a no-DQ match. As the announcer goes to introduce the teams, Ray grabs the mic and introduces himself instead.

Well, looks like I was wrong about Brandon replacing Hardy. But, since this is a no-DQ match, I think he’ll get involved at some point to give Storm and Hardy the win. On the other hand, he could get involved and screw things up so that Ray/Angle win, but I think that’s less likely.

Storm says that he has a beer-drinking friend who has some unfinished business with Bully Ray, and introduces Brandon Jacobs who comes out to the ring. Jacobs get in the ring, the gets out to the Hardy/Storm corner. Storm and Angle start things out fast and furious. Storm tags Hardy in, but Angle runs out of the ring. (Since this is no-DQ, why do they even bother tagging each other in? I know, I know it’s scripted, but still …). Cut to commercial.

After the commercial, Hardy and Ray are in the ring, and Hardy hits some high-flying moves on Ray, then Ray grounds him and starts taking over. Hardy is sent to the Ray/Angle corner, and Angle pulls Hardy crotch-first into the ring post. Ray eventually tags Angle in, who takes over on Hardy, keeping him grounded for a while. Angle tags Ray back in, but Hardy fights him off and makes the tag to Storm. Hardy rushes Angle and knocks him off of the ring, then starts to pummel Ray for a while. Angle gets into the ring and suplexes Storm, but is hit hard by Hardy. Ray kicks Hardy in the face and lays him out, but then drops to one knee and hold his head, as if not fully recovered. He then yells to Angle to get the table.

As they go to bring it into the ring, Storm and Angle drop-kick it right into their faces, sending them reeling. Storm and Hardy set up the table but are then ambushed by a recovering Ray and Angle, who finish getting the table ready. Angle charges Storm but is hit with the superkick, but Ray beats him down. As he stands over Storm, Brandon climbs into the ring and surprises Ray when he turns around. Ray is startled but yells “You wanna fight me?” He then drops down into a three-point stance, and Brandon follows suit as Storm is recovering in the corner. Brandon and Ray face off, but Storm gets up and pulls Ray up and into an uppercut, sending him reeling backward to Brandon who lifts Ray up and smashes him through the table. Actually a fairly decent smash through the table for Jacobs, better than some I’ve seen. Storm covers Ray for the win.

Winner: Storm/Hardy (my score: 4/1)

Jacobs shows off his own calves as Ray and Angle remain laid out. Storm and Jacobs celebrate in the ring; I have no idea what happened to Hardy. Shot of someone knocking on Sting’s door and just saying “Showtime.” Cut to commercial.

Return from commercial, and Sting comes out to the ring. No ring wear, no makeup. Sting says he’s done, there’s too much for him to handle, too much slipping through his fingers, and he’s been pushed over the edge by Bobby Rude. So he’s done. Bobby Rude comes out with a golf clap and a fake tear in his eye. He apologizes for interrupting but he felt like he had to be there and listen to his words as Sting tells the world that Bobby Rude is the better man. Sting says that Bobby didn’t win any war, didn’t win any battles.

Sting takes off his sunglasses and tucks them into his T-shirt, and says that Bobby helped him out and woke him up. He then gets out some black makeup and starts rubbing it all over his face. He starts to get into the Insane Icon voice. He says he’s not doing any part-way anymore, no mediocre, and makes a gagging sound. No more Mr. Nice Guy. He’s going to put on his boots, put on his tights, put on his warpaint, and then at Victory Road he’s going to kick the living crap out of Bobby Rude. Bobby looks nervous and turns to leave, then turns back with a low kick (like last week) that Sting catches before it hits him. Bobby begs him to stop, so Sting slowly lowers Bobby’s foot to the ground and appears to calm down … before hitting Bobby with a low blow of his own, to a massive pop by the crowd. In a munchkin voice, Sting tells Bobby to “Follow the yellow brick road … follow the yellow brick road to Victory Road!”

Overall, not the greatest TNA. Nothing really exciting happened. I did not for a minute believe that Sting was “done” with wrestling or TNA or anything like that. During the last match, the announcers said that AJ Styles was asking for a gauntlet match next week facing both Kazarian and Christopher Daniels, which has the potential to be interesting. Hopefully, it will finish off this feud and AJ can go back and humiliate Robbie E (again). ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?40829-TNA-23-February-2012 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?40688-TNA-Against-All-Odds Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:18:51 GMT These are the results and some description of the TNA PPV Against All Odds. I’ve included my ideas (chosen before the matches) of who I want/think... These are the results and some description of the TNA PPV Against All Odds. I’ve included my ideas (chosen before the matches) of who I want/think is going to win. These picks pretty much demonstrate that I’m shite as a prognosticator.

TNA – Against All Odds

Start with a video package about the main event, the four-way match between Jeff Hardy, Bully Ray, James Storm and Bobby Roode.

First Match: Jesse Sorenson v Zima Ion
Want to Win: Sorenson
Think will Win: Sorenson

I think Sorenson will win because I expect Aries to keep the title, and Ion winning would mean a heel v heel match. Though I would like to see that, I still expect Sorenson to win. The match is reasonably well fought, but little reaction from the audience. Sorenson gives a football to a fan, which is then taken by Ion to cement his heel status. Sorenson is sent to the floor, and then Ion does a flip off of the second turnbuckle which knocks Sorenson out, and he wins by countout. I won’t be surprised if that was a botch and results in an actual injury. Rating: 4/10
Winner: Ion (my record: 0/1)

Christy Hemme does an interview with Bobby Rude. Next, TV champ Robbie E comes out with Robbie T and says that since he wasn’t scheduled he’s instituting a Robbie E Invitational and challenges anyone to come out and face him for the title. Shannon Moore’s music hits and he comes to the ring.

Second Match: Robbie E v Shannon Moore
Want to Win: Moore
Think will Win: Robbie E

Moore hasn’t been seen for a while, no heat has been built up, so I think this will be just the start of a feud. I’ve actually thought the TV title has been pretty meaningless lately, hopefully this will be the start of moving it into the picture. I really dislike Robbie E and his gimmick, so I want Moore to win, but I don’t really think he will. I hate Robbie E’s lime green ring wear also. It’s a decent match, some reaction from the audience on both sides. Robbie E actually does some decent moves, but Moore is simply amazing. However, Moore tries a rollup which Robbie kicks out of, sending Moore into the ropes where he is punched by Robbie T. Robbie E covers Moore for the win. Rating: 6/10
Winner: Robbie E (my record: 1/1)

They do a video montage of the conflict between Gail Kim and Tara over the past few weeks.

Third Match: Gail Kim v Tara
Want to Win: Kim
Think will Win: Kim

I think Gail Kim is pretty hot, so my pants come off for this match. ;) Madison Rayne comes out with Kim, but they appear to be arguing. I think they will keep Kim champion for a while, but I really don’t mind. The match goes back and forth, and Kim and Rayne keep shouting at each other. Rayne eventually leaves the ringside, apparently disgusted with Kim’s attitude and shouting “Screw you” at her. The crowd is firmly behind Tara. Kim tries the Octopus submission hold, which I haven’t seen by anyone else in a very long time. The Knockouts division is so much better than the Divas division of WWE, I’ve got to say. Kim hits the Eat DeFeet move for the clean win. Rating: 6/10
Winner: Gail Kim (my record: 2/1)

Christy Hemme does an interview with James Storm. After the interview, they show a recap of the feud between Matt Morgan/Crimson and Samoa Joe/Magnus.

Fourth Match: Matt Morgan Crimson v Samoa Joe/Magnus
Want to Win: Either
Think will Win: Morgan/Crimson

Pants are back on. I really don’t care which team wins, as I like them both. I think Morgan/Crimson will win though. TNA has a glitch and starts to show the X Factors for the next match, but they quickly correct that. Joe and Morgan start the match trying to knock each other down, until Joe kicks Morgan and gets the advantage. Most of the audience doesn’t seem into this match as much as many others. There is some good tag team wrestling in this match, much better than what I’ve seen lately in the E. Crimson goes for a spear on Joe and hits Morgan, and the challengers hit a combo that gets them the win. Crimson walks away from the ring and leaves Morgan in the ring. Rating: 7/10
Winner: Samoa Joe/Magnus (my record: 2/2)

Christy Hemme starts and interview with Bully Ray, who insults her and takes the microphone while telling her to go away and continuing on his own.

Fifth Match: Austin Aries v Alex Shelley
Want to Win: Aries
Think will Win: Aries

I am a big Aries fan, first seeing him in ROH. I don’t think Shelley will win here since he’s not been seen in a while and this might be the set up for another feud. I’m less sure about this prediction based on the results of the first match (number one contender). Zima Ion is the contender, so I’m thinking that they might get Shelley the win to make it a classic face v heel scenario. The crowd is pretty split on chanting for either contender. This is probably one of the best matches I’ve seen in a very long time. Excellent moves and counters. The crowd eventually starts chanting “This is awesome” which cannot be denied. Both contenders kick out of what seem to be match-ending moves. Both hit some amazing moves. Shelley hits Sliced Bread and covers for almost three, but at the last instant Aries grabbed the bottom rope. Aries hits a brainbuster and Shelley kicks out. Aries hits the Last Chancery and Shelley taps out. Rating: 9/10
Winner: Austin Aries (my record: 3/2)

Christy Hemme does an interview with Jeff Hardy, who is in is typical silly makeup and garb. I am not a Jeff Hardy fan. There is a montage of the background for the Styles/Kazarian match.

Sixth Match: AJ Styles vs Frankie Kazarian
Want to Win: Styles
Think will Win: Styles

I think Styles will win to get an edge over Christopher Daniels, who seems to be manipulating Kazarian. Kazarian comes out wearing a Daniels T-shirt, but does not seem very happy. Throughout the match, Kazarian seems to be giving only a half-hearted effort at times. Kazarian attempts to shake hands before the match, but Styles refuses and rips the T-shirt off. The crowd seems to be a little sympathetic to Kazarian, and the chants alternate between “Let’s go Styles” and “Daniels sucks.” The match goes back and forth for a while, some interesting moves, until Styles hits a moonsault from the top rope onto Daniels. When he goes back into the ring, Kazarian hits the Fade to Black for the win. Rating: 7/10
Winner: Kazarian (my record: 3/3)

A sign at ringside seems to be taking a swipe at the E’s tweeting mania and reads “Tweet This!” I approve of this message. Christy Hemme does an interview with Eric Bishoff and Gunner. Eric says that he will give Hulk Hogan a towel that he can throw in to end the match, since Gunner is going to destroy Garrett.

Seventh Match: Garrett Bischoff v Gunner
Want to Win: Garrett
Think will Win: Garrett

Let’s make this clear: I do not now and have not ever taken Garrett Bischoff seriously as a wrestler. That being said, however, I’d like to see him win simply because Eric and Gunner remind me of some bullies that picked on me as a kid. They just poss me off. I also think that Hogan will want to claim that his training is what enabled Garrett to win against Gunner and embellish his “reputation.”

Garrett hits some good amateur moves, but nothing spectacular. Gunner powers through Garrett for just about the entire match. EB gets involved briefly, and Hogan goes over to stop him but gets backed off by the referee. EB slaps his son and Hogan punches him out. Hogan starts to throw in the towel but is stopped by Garrett, who is then decisively pinned by Gunner after a DDT for the win. Rating: 2/10
Winner: Gunner (my record: 3/4)

Christy Hemme does an interview with Sting. A video is shown of the events leading up to the main event and comments by the competitors.

Main Event: Jeff Hardy v Bully Ray v James Storm v Bobby Roode
Want to Win: Anybody but Hardy
Think will Win: Roode

I’m thinking that Roode will continue to hold the title, to set up a one on one against Storm down the road. I am not a Hardy fan, I am not an emo Twilight addict. He’s a great wrestler, I’ll give him that, but he just doesn’t do it for me. I hope to heck he doesn’t win. The crowd does not agree with me, they seem to be firmly behind Hardy. While I don’t care which of the other three wins, Bully Ray would be my personal pick if pressed.

Roode attempts to get Ray to work with him, but Ray declines and steps out of the ring to let him face Hardy and Storm alone. Ray comes in at an opportune moment to take out all three, and there is a small “Bully Ray” chant from the audience. Roode and Storm team up briefly against Ray and start the “Beer Money” chant until Roode hits Storm. Storm and Hardy go to superplex Roode, then Ray slips in and throws them all to the mat. Ray accidentally splashes the referee and then hits a Bubba Bomb on Hardy and pins him with the ref out. Hardy hits the Twist of Fate, ref still out. Roode hits a spear on Hardy, Storm gets a move in on Roode and sets up for the Superkick. Ref is pulled out of the ring by Bully Ray before he can count three. More moves and the ref is out again. Hardy takes off his shirt to a massive pop by the emo crowd, then misses the Swanton Bomb. Roode grabs the championship belt and goes to use it against Hardy, but is stopped by Sting. Roode provokes Sting and spits in his face, who then swings at Roode with the belt but hits Hardy instead when Roode ducks out of the way. Roode covers Hardy and insists that Sting do the three count. Sting reluctantly counts Roode to the win. Rating: 6/10
Winner: Roode (my record: 4/4)

Overall, not a bad PPV. Not the best by any means, by not bad. The Aries v Shelley match was definitely the high point and made it worth the price. ]]> Vondraco http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?40688-TNA-Against-All-Odds