http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/blog.php?10985-scribblerking Wrestling News and Discussion - eWrestlingNews.com Community en Sun, 26 May 2013 06:22:11 GMT vBulletin 10 http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/images/misc/rss.jpg http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/blog.php?10985-scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?45279-The-Internet-Champion…Zack-Ryder Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:16:47 GMT When I think about interesting WWE characters and potential lost and languishing in professional wrestling “Jobber Wasteland” I cannot help but think... When I think about interesting WWE characters and potential lost and languishing in professional wrestling “Jobber Wasteland” I cannot help but think of the one and only “Long Island Ice Z” Zack Ryder. Like many I did not want to care, did not want to find myself liking him or cheering for him but as he slowly seemed to pull himself up by his bootstraps and get noticed with his innovative “Z! True Long Island Story” (started in early 2011 and ended early 2103) I did get caught up in the Ryder or Riot wave.

Heck, I still like the guy but sadly I believe he was a victim of his own success and like I have mentioned before “doomed to struggle” even if he did make the boss money if the boss perceived a lesson needed to be taught in who is really in charge of the WWE. Indeed, VKM has become “the” wrestling business and knows a good thing when he sees it but if he feels like someone or something not of his own creation is being shoved down his throat he also knows how to kill momentum too. It would be interesting actually to measure how much money in merchandising and the like the WWE is making off Ryder now verses what he was drawing the same time last year? I would wager there is a difference, yes, but not a substantial one.

Poor Matthew Cardona is still around, however, and floating around in jobberville wishing for the days to complain about being stuck on Superstars and having the stress of putting together another Z!TLIS episode. Those episodes were original and creative and, in turn, got him noticed by the world and WWE management, but now more than ever does he need to recapture that drive and find a way to pull up those bootstraps again and push himself. I have always believed that to make it in anything you have to want it more than anyone else and stop at nothing to achieve your goals. Yet, where is that Zack Ryder that people were forced to like and cheer for?

Of course the inevitable debate amongst the IWC is he should turn heel, fall back to the tag team division or repackage his gimmick but I say his character is fine and still has a lot of potential he just needs to get out of this depressive funk he seems to be in and fight. Ok…maybe that is not as easy as it sounds with what he is given to work with these days but hell it cannot be any worse than where he was before. Zack you have shown us you do care about the business and that you can succeed on your own merits just don’t give up and give in to coasting because even a jobber is happy to have a job, right? Don’t fall into that trap we all sometimes get into of casting blame and whining about circumstance just remember who you are and get out there and get it done!

How many WWE wrestlers have so much potential, so much skill, ability and even tons of fans, but do so little about using it to their fullest advantage? Yeah…yeah…what do I know about how hard it is in the world of the WWE and professional wrestling? Nada. But I do know it’s not ever going to be the greatest American novel if it is stuck in your head and never written down…I do know you will not go far down the road if you don’t put gas in the car and put the pedal to the medal! Some are happy to just be as they are and get by and that is fine for them but some overcome cancer in high school, create YouTube shows to get noticed or Internet Championships to shine his own superstardom…that is who you are ZR remember that!

Hundreds of dreaming hopeful wannabes seek to get some foot—even a pinky toe—in the door of the WWE and by hedge or Edge you are there man so live it! Personally, I think the WWE is missing the boat, dropping the ball and whatever other witty example you want to use on many of their talented superstars but such is the nature of the game…the cruel mistress of the business. There is no other glaring example, in my estimation, of the WWE’s stubborn short-sightedness than their failure to utilize a rare fresh idea in the land of “been there, done that” than in Zack Ryder’s own Internet Championship strap.

Sure, the idea came from a mid-card superstar struggling to find his way and be noticed in the packed lineup of the WWE roster, but does that make it a bad idea? Honestly, in the super saturated world that we now live in of social media and internet sensations wouldn’t an idea like this truly mean something? As hard as you push twitter, tout and similar bells and whistles why doesn’t this kind of a belt make perfect sense to use to enhance your product and bring something unique to the table? Frankly, I am shocked TNA or other organization have not already debuted something similar (or they may have I don’t really pay attention) to try and capitalize on this idea?

In my opinion this is the perfect vehicle for your WWE.com or your Saturday Morning Slam to have some special significance and a way Zack could regain some momentum and energy. Have the belt only defended online in pre-shows to PPVs or other similar ways and only those who are popular online (by the vote of the people or their follower count whatever) able to go after it. Sure,the look of the belt may need to change in a generic non-Zack Ryder emphasis kind of way but those are just details. Really, what have you got to lose to try something new?

Just think about the instant credibility this belt could have if the WWE just let it be acknowledged on TV and say to Zack “here is the ball…run with it son.” If it fails, it fails and can be deleted just as easily as the hardcore title and just think of the possibilities. Ok “instant credibility” may be a stretch but Zack has “held” the title for a longgggg time (yeah I can see the irony there) and given the right time and push it could easily take off and not only revive his career but the mid-carders as well…the belt is there, the man is there…what would be the harm? ]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?45279-The-Internet-Champion…Zack-Ryder http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?44821-RUMBLE-CHAMBER-MANIA-Considering-the-possibilities Wed, 23 Jan 2013 20:10:55 GMT In the great abyss of data, information and sheer EVERYTHING that is the World Wide Web nothing stirs the cauldron of controversy and debate like...
In the great abyss of data, information and sheer EVERYTHING that is the World Wide Web nothing stirs the cauldron of controversy and debate like some simple blogger offering an opinion. See…even reading this you suddenly have an opinion concerning my opinion about opinions! Does it ever end? All kidding aside what is a blog for anyway but to offer comments, opinions and share information? Sometimes opinions are original or parallel to the thoughts and views of other already established in ink or some cyber trail somewhere, but mostly they are just what they are. Agree or disagree—such is your privilege—but here I remain a mere blogger offering a mere opinion about what I would like to happen in the next set of PPVs starting most importantly with the Royal Rumble PPV.

US Championship: Antonio Cesaro vs. The Miz

Pre-show? Do we reallyneed any stinking pre-show? This should be the Rumble opener IMO and should be a really good matchup. Like him or hate him The Miz has enjoyed a slight uptick in his superstar value since his “tweener” turn and has turned his shine up a notch with his feud for recapturing the US title. Cesaro has carved a name for himself in his rookie year with the WWE simultaneously making himself and the US Championship more and more interesting.

Since beating Santino in August 2012 for the US title Cesaro has shown he can hold his own in the WWE and deserves to retain in a hard-knock contest with The Miz. Back and forth it should go with Miz gaining the upper hand nearly pulling it out when the lights go out and BOOM—here comes the shield attacking The Miz for either a DQ decision or win for the champ! Strange,however, as the normally three-man group calls out a new mysterious member who is wearing a full riot gear and mask (gas mask, dark hood whole nine) hiding his identity who really takes it to The Miz—the new guy is vicious and quickly turns on Cesaro as well with the four taking both out as only they can.

This would be a better use for the Shield as they can say later about the “injustice” of the US Champ having to face such an unworthy opponent. The mystery of the new member can be played up and teased for a little while as a “worthy adversary” for the US gold finally putting The Shield to better use at the mid-card level wreaking havoc to all (heel and face) and waging their own brand of justice. Sure, this takes even more from TNA and Aces and Eights but since The Shield is already a erstwhile polar opposite rip off anyway might as well go all out.

Leading up to the Elimination Chamber the new guy is finally revealed to be a bearded, head-shaved Jack Swagger who “recognizes in the Shield a bond, a family that he has never enjoyed in his time with the WWE” a band of brothers who will watch his back and help him fight the injustice of anyone other than himself holding the US championship. And at the EC chamber The Shield can capture their first strap by having Swagger go over Cesaro in their typical unjust manner. Of course this could set up a WM rematch in a cage or some stipulation that likewise has the Shield seemingly unable to help their bud.

Similarly, this could help lead right into another barrage so to speak with Dean perhaps seeking to capture the IC title from Wade Barrett at the EC PPV and the tag titles for the other two remaining Shield warriors. I mean what is a stable if not a mechanism to make more of an impact OTHER than jumping people and showing up here and there. They need the gold and having all of these all at once would do them very well…


Money inthe Bank?

Ok I do think the MITB should return and stay at WM and what a perfect vehicle for otherwise unencumbered superstars such as Cena, Kofi,Ryder, Daniel Bryan, Kane, Ryback and many other possibilities. Personally I would go with Ryder pulling out an upset victory here to help his sagging star power. I like Ryder put he needs a push in some new direction or another…


WorldHeavyweight Championship: Alberto DelRio vs. The Big Show

Ok…I know I am not the only one who thinks the Big Show is just simply getting old…not in his ability or drive perhaps as he looks physically the best lately than he has ever looked, but in the whole package. Yes, ok, you are a mean merciless giant who destroys everyone but eh…been there done that. Sadly he has really tried it all and where can he really go from here? I don’t know but conversely I have never really like Del Rio since he first stepped into a WWE ring but I have to admit he is growing on me as a face and his last man standing match with Big Show where he won the title was refreshing and worthy—caught many of us off guard I dare say and more so that it felt right and deserving.

Ok, then, can the Rumble LMS match top the last one? Sure and after a brutal slugfest where DelRio barely retains we finally—and I mean FINALLY—get a Ziggler cash-in to win the WHC over a nearly cationic Del Rio. Ziggler truly deserves this title and this would not impact Del Rio at all sending him into a rematch at Elimination Chamber with Ziggler (and say Sheamus, Big Show, Big E, Brodus Clay). The Big Show can be systematically devastated by a constant barrage to his leg/knee by Del Rio during the match and with a little old-school psychology and emotional support from the crowd Alberto can overcome the odds and tell a story of triumph and victory through the worst beating he has everencountered.

Honestly, like many I am a little tired of the WHC hanging around in this day and age where the brand split has quietly vanished and theWWE title is seemingly growing in importance. This title is very classic and prestigious in its own right but at the same time having two “world titles” cheapens both and dilutes the product.


WWE WorldHeavyweight Championship: CM Punk vs.The Rock

Ok Punk no matter what you do or say I am for you all the way! This is an easy choice for me though perhaps not the MOST popular or realistic when it comes to how the WWE may want to play this. I am not a Rock-hater I have always enjoyed him and marveled at his talent and what he brings to the ring but realistically he does not need a title to draw money and at his level he is, as we all know, only going to be around when he wants to be around. The Rock as WWE champion? Sorry does not impress me or increase buy-rates any more than his mere presence on a PPV. The Rock as WWE champ vs. Undertaker, or vs. Brock or in a rematch with Punk? Why?

CM Punk has shown he is a top name in the company no matter how much he is kept down or shortchanged by others (Cena et.al) and why end his historic title rein just to put the strap on The Rock for a short term? Why ruin it at all for anyone right now? Honestly, who else then makes sense for Punk to battle for the title? He has taken on everyone else?

So…it does therefore excite me to hear the rumblings of a possible match at WrestleMania with a streak vs. streak match so to speak with Undertaker and CM Punk. This does make sense in so many ways as who and what else might draw Taker back into the fray? Talk about a man that has done and seen it all. Between the Rock and Taker it is the same story of a mega star who does not need the title per se (and who is only around when they want to be) but it just makes more sense to go with Taker.

Taker vs. Brock…yeah who cares? Taker vs. Rock…ok epic and awesome but why? Taker vs. Cena, anyone else…ok anything could work if done the right way but again why? At 20-0 no rational viewer is going to believe Taker is going to go down at the grandest stage of them all for just anyone and any given scenario. Why should he? Want a match that will have everyone guessing…hey Taker has his 20 in a row and Punk is on a roll anything could happen right? Ok Punk may not need the rub to go over Taker in such an epic fashion and Taker may not need the title to be Taker but the match would be the biggest thing the WWE could otherwise come up with and why not! Punk seemingly needs that one more thing, that one more moment to push him all the way to the top and this would be it. Ok yes the streak is the streak and maybe it does not have to end ever but if it does who else is more deserving? Why waste such a moment on just anyone?

So…with all that being said how do we get here? Why not have a Rumble match that sees both men come out, head-to-head and move-for-move put on a clinic a match for the ages that truly no one saw coming…a match where there is no cheap run-in or interference (where even Paul H is thrown out midway in) where there are so many near-falls and uncertain outcomes that we are all at the edge of our seats. The Rock and Punk are just simply spent and maybe even a little color to help tell the right story…look back to that WM 13 match with Austin vs. Bret Hart and how that was magic…have Punk down and out with the Rock about to finish him (barely able to manage his usual move set) when the Rock simply collapses in the ring unresponsive and down where Punk can crawl over, drape the arm and pick up the win. This would not cheapen the win too much IMO nor tarnish Rock at all…I am not saying turn Punk face or Rock heal like the WM 13 moment double turn just set up a reason for Rock to have a rematch with Punk at the Elimination Chamber PPv along with say Orton, Brock, Cena and Mark Henry. Throwing Brock in the mix here thus sets up a Brock vs. Rock WM match where Rock is seeking revenge for Brock costing him the title at the EC.


RoyalRumble: 30 put it all on the line!

Ok with the above being said it would therefore suppose that the Undertaker would need to be the surprise last entrant into the Rumble and winner right? Yes this could work but really….really…really…? Taker is Taker after all and would deserve the WM title shot against anyone just by wanting it…so perhaps as a swerve of all swerves looking to turn up the heat and speculation in the IWC why not have a brand new World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler enter the rumble as #1 (he did not have to work so hard after all to become WHC) and defy the odds to be the last man standing (by hook, crook and questionable circumstances of course) against the #30 entrant the Undertaker…oh my I could hearing the heartbeats thumping and keyboards clicking now…

Ok…then what’s next? Many different ideas could work but if Ziggler somehow wins the rumble, retains the title at the EC it could be a champion vs champion WM moment to unify the World titles once and for all bringing the WWE title back to a singular importance and oh my how that would not suck. How does that play into the epic streak vs. streak match aforementioned? Well, why not have Taker disappear after losing to ZIggler at the Rumble…where is Taker!!!??? What happened to Taker? Everyone would expect Taker to win the Rumble to go on perhaps to face Punk but what would they think then…what would they think when he does not show up to talk about the loss or answer the questions or even demand a rematch…he could be noticeably absent from the lineup of the EC PPv when of course Dolph is celebrating his victory the lights can go out and as a single spotlight is set up on the ring Taker can pop up from under the ring and drag the show off to hell to end the EC ppv…this could then set up in the next weeks how Taker wants Ziggler at WM and Punk in a three way for the all the marbles undisputed championship and streak vs. streak on the line!!!!

Ok I realize I may be in dreamland here and having Ziggler may feel like an unnecessary third wheel to an otherwise epic matchup but just consider the possibilities for the moment folks…wow…

I do admit to being a huge Ziggler fan and believe he and Punk certainly deserve this kind of exposure—Punk moreso even—but imagine how this could go down if either wins. Taker as the unified, undisputed World Champ and 21-0 would mean something and perhaps be the moment he needs, the final moment he can then retire…he can finally introduce a new belt lay out that he has done everything he has wanted to accomplish and can retire as champ…the moment can be used as a turning point for Ziggler to make a great stand and become a face and feud on with Punk in a tournament at Extreme Rules to determine the new undisputed champion…Ziggler can do this by having the mutual respect rub from Taker where Punk comes off as having tried to swindle the match…Taker and Ziggler handshake ala HHH and Taker and invite Punk in but he refuses…

Ok…Ziggler wins…even as a fan I don’t see this at this point but let us suppose he does still pull out all the stops and even pins Taker (which he would not have to do to win in the three way) he would be a made man with all the shine he could possibly need to rise to the top…while I do think he is ready for gold he may not be ready for all this…he could even pin Punk for the Undisputed title and thus letting Taker remain technically undefeated which would make about as much sense as some finishes lately…either way even asa “tweener” face with a new strap and supreme champ status he could do very well…

And then there is Punk…with what I actually hope would happenis the victor here pulling out all the stops winning the Undisputed title, introducing a new look the next night on Raw and pinning Taker to end the Streak as well…truly he would be the best in the world and at that point why not let him keep going as a longer term champion building a new mega star who can make other stars along the way. Ok I am kinda partial to shaking things up but really the scenario of Taker winning and retiring with the title would work just as well if not better to not only cement his legacy and send him out in style, but to give us who care a good enough reason to cause CM Punk’s current title reign to come to an end. Ok maybe it is not as large and significantas Taker’s WM streak but it is big in my estimation and should not be discarded lightly. Besides, while Punk can always go on a longer streak later there will never be another WM 20 year streak...

Yeah ok it would never happen but what if it could?

]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?44821-RUMBLE-CHAMBER-MANIA-Considering-the-possibilities http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?42991-The-Best-NON-Wrestler-in-the-World Thu, 21 Jun 2012 14:30:58 GMT Whether you are a casual fan bouncing back-and-forth or a diehard enthusiast of the world of professional wrestling you have probably witnessed a lot...
Whether you are a casual fan bouncing back-and-forth or a diehard enthusiast of the world of professional wrestling you have probably witnessed a lot of ups and downs in the industry. Gimmicks change and wrestlers come and go but one thing stays the same as far as the promotion and drive of those who make it happen—every conceivable idea is fair game and thrown up on the wall to seewhat might stick and draw money. From “X on a pole” matches to Zombie jobbers, from Ugandan giants, kings of the ring, necrophilia and weasel managers no subject is too sacred and no tactic too outlandish to try.

Often interesting and sometimes entertaining the “no fear” attitude of wrestlers (and even some NON wrestlers in the industry) willing to try anything for the sake of the business and their potential success is admirable and unique. Nevertheless there is still very much a pecking order when it comes to the rite of passage within the industry…young guys hungry for fame and fortune still need to pay their dues, sharpen the tools of their craft and respect the nature of the game in order to make it in the eyes of many. Sure, shortcuts are around in the ecosphere of making money and creating a name for yourself but to truly last you have to earn it and show you deserve it.

To that end nothing seems to anger the “veterans” and rookies of the profession more than a celebrity or a promoter’s relative coming in to tie up a top spot for more than a one-shot deal. Ok yes having a famous face grace the stage of the squared circle—particularly in a non-wrestling capacity in a PPV or special show—is good for business and that is good for everybody but they are not, and should never be, more than they are. Celebrity football players or rock stars aside nothing stirs the cauldron of controversy more (in my opinion) than an obvious non-wrestler or wannabe wrestler put in the main event time after time who does little but takeup space and collect a fat paycheck. Indeed, it angers me personally to see or hear of a relative of a promoter given the keys to the bright lights and big time when they especially do not deserve the chance over workers who perhaps deserve it much more.

I will admit there are some success stories that actually entertain, make money and make their mark in the history and culture of professional wrestling but for every Andy Kaufman and Mr. T there is a David Arquette and Dennis Rodman. The“celebrity” wing of the WWE Hall of Fame perhaps has its place but has there really been a non-wrestler (meaning one who has perhaps wrestled many times bu tis not and never will be a full time wrestler) who deserves the title “Best in the World?” I think so…and it is a promoter’s kid who actually deserves that honor I think…Shane McMahon.

Ok some could argue he wrestled enough (and well enough) and could really be called a true professional wrestler back in his heyday but inthe modern vernacular he was always more of a “on air talent” who did whatever he could for the sake of business. With his looks and instinct for the industry there was never any questions from what bloodline he sprang from and even more than his father the “genetic jackhammer” himself has proven he has what it takes to draw. Sure, there are perhaps some announcer and manager types that are non-wrestlers and have made more money than Shane in their time but which of them could take a sick bump, land a diving elbow drop or perform a corner-t-corner front missile dropkick like Shane-O-Mac?

Face or heel, Corporate Ministry, Alliance leader or as a baby-faced referee where he got his start Shane proved himself worthy of his name and worthy of respect. He has had some epic feuds with his family and against his family and with superstars ofthe stature of Big Show, Test and Kane to name a few. His 2001 match with Kurt Angle at the King ofthe Ring PPV is a legendary bloody affair that is one of my favorite matches of all time. Indeed “The Boy Wonder” and “Demon Seed” grew up right in front of us and would, much to the chagrin of many, resign from the business in late 2009 to make in the world outside of wrestling and on his own—hate him or love him you have to admire him for that.

Personally I miss Shane and would love to see him come back and take over the WWE from Vince who may never retire fully but cannot go on forever. At 42 Shane has come a longway in the world forging his own identity and, at least in my book, putting his name down as one of the (if not THE best) greatest NON wrestlers in the world.

So in the words of the little kid from that famous western “Come back Shane! Come back!”


]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?42991-The-Best-NON-Wrestler-in-the-World http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41775-UnderFED-and-Hungry-Dolph-Ziggler Thu, 24 May 2012 16:16:25 GMT In the great abyss of data, information and sheer EVERYTHING that is the World Wide Web nothing stirs the cauldron of controversy and debate like... In the great abyss of data, information and sheer EVERYTHING that is the World Wide Web nothing stirs the cauldron of controversy and debate like some simple blogger offering an opinion. See…even reading this you suddenly have an opinion concerning my opinion about opinions! Does it ever end? All kidding aside what is a blog for anyway but to offer comments, opinions and share information? Agree or disagree—such is your privilege—but here I remain a mere blogger offering a mere opinion about no mere mortal known by the professional wrestling name as DOLPH ZIGGLER.

Five years ago if Ihad been tasked to name my favorite bleach blond professional wrestler I would have probably said a pre-1996 Sting or maybe even Ric Flair…but Mr. Nick “Spirit Squad” Nemeth would not have made my list...until recently. Honestly,was that whole male cheerleader gimmick (even without the blond hair) any more than a blip on the radar of professional wrestling? Thankfully, as with so many extinct experiments the WWE has tried to feed us, the villainous faction with lots of “pep” eventually went the way of the dodo bird. It had to die you see to give birth to…the “Frat Pack?” No, no…to none other than…”the Natural!” Ok…ok…Nick had to regroup a little—who doesn’t from time to time—to get to the right mix of natural charisma and bona fide ring presence mixed with a heavy dose of “this is me kicked up a notch as I am a showoff in real life.”

I dare you to watch any of his matches over the last year and convince yourself he is not the real deal just waiting to explode…he is a selling machine when it comes to his work ethic and it not only makes him look good it makes his opponents (even Khali) come off even better! So…why? Why has he been held back and perpetually stuck, it seems, with Vicky Guerrero, when it has become abundantly clear by now he does not need a manager, mouth piece or tag team partner—sorry Swagger—and can certainly get better looking females (see Maria in 1999) to adorn his arm? While admittedly these observations are nothing new to the IWC it remains stagnantly frustrating to see such talent languish at mid-card purgatory.

In a blatant attempt to appeal to the “YouTube” crowd and the IWC in general (and bring in new streams of revenue) the WWE has offered up the “WWE FanNation” channel on YouTube and Dolph’s weekly series “WWE Download”is by far the cream of the crop. Watch all of them right now if you have not done so already and I will expect your gratitude will be generous if you are a fan of professionals who can deliver and simply ooze humor, personality and intelligence. Indeed, the shows are not very long and centers on an “America’s Funniest Home Videos” type look at posted online video clips but good old Saget or Bergeron wishes they were as good. In fact, I only watch Zack Ryder’s popular WWE series “Z True Long Island Story” to catch Dolph’s frequent “hacked” appearances and truthfully Ryder is only ever interesting when he is involvedwith Ziggler…arguably he has become, in the minds of many, the true worthy heir to any supposed “Internet Championship.”

So…back to the questions of why? I can only speculate but Dolph has certainly paid his dues vying for and wearing both the Intercontinental and United States Championships—even a small “what the” blimp with the World Heavyweight Championship. Sure, he has had some bumps finding his footing (what was that aborted attempt at “improving” yourself by getting rid of the bleach blond hair anyway?) even deserving a 30-day suspension in late 2008 for a WWE Wellness Policy violation, but all-in-all he has proven his superstar status is legit time and time again and deserves a genuine push to the top where he can truly shine. Listen to the man talk and deliver promos—when he is actually given the time and opportunity—and see if you think he is ready? The answer is YES, YES, YES he is!

His more recently attempts to attain top WWE gold around his waist—against CM Punk especially—demonstrated better than anyone else he is ready, willing and able to be a top heel even along the caliber of Stone Cold and Randy Orton—the bad guys everyone loves to hate. Did you know he is fluent in American Sign Language? Yeah and I bet that would come in handy to communicate to the top bigwigs of the WWE! Obviously they are deaf and dumb when it comes to watching their own programming on YouTube or otherwise? Maybe…if they did I would like to think they have enough brains to realize DOLPH ZIGGLER is money in the bank just waiting to draw interest…to steal a line from the "#HEEL" himself something needs to happen because “I am so damn sick…of being so damn sick!”

Show…off…later marks!


]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41775-UnderFED-and-Hungry-Dolph-Ziggler http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41703-“If-I-Could-Be-Serious-For-a-Moment” Thu, 17 May 2012 01:41:49 GMT Ok, I will admit to the deep, dark secret…I like to read. Maybe it is not for everyone I will grant you that, but ever since I was a little tike...

Ok, I will admit to the deep, dark secret…I like to read. Maybe it is not for everyone I will grant you that, but ever since I was a little tike dragging around Dr. Seuss I have discovered an immeasurable amount of satisfaction sitting down to a good book and getting lost in the pages. Thankfully, there always seems to be a plethora of worlds to choose from in the areas of fiction and nonfiction alike and from science fiction novels to do-it-yourself manuals I have tried them all.

Over the last ten years or so, however, my particular interests have turned to a preference for biographies and autobiographies—more specifically the memoirs of those in the professional world of wrestling. From Mick Foley to Kurt Angle…from Ric Flair and Bret Hart to Edge and Chris Jericho the books are out there and they keep coming! I will not claim to have read them all, or to even desire to read them all, but if you call yourself a wrestling devotee, a scholar of the business that is professional wrestling (still cannot call it “sports entertainment”) you owe it to yourself to pick a few up from your local library—yes they still exist—and spend the energy.

Of course, according to your preferences whether for currently active professional wrestlers or those that have retired and “passed the torch” the multi-layered literary efforts are out there and worth your time. If nothing else they are a glimpse of the sometimes elusive world that fascinates and entertains us from the perspective of those specialists who lived/live their craft and gave/give us their all. Like the old saying goes, “those who can do…those who cannot read about it and dream.” Or something like that…

A few memoirs are surprisingly well-written by the wrestler themselves (Mick Foley) and some are obviously not (Chyna) but—good or bad—they all have something to offer to the great puzzle that is professional wrestling. Likewise,I will not pretend to be a particularly knowledgeable reviewer of books but I know what I like and I certainly have opinions like any other so if I can borrow a little more from one of my favorite professional wrestlers—Lance Storm—I wish to be a “book mark” here and share some thoughts and titles.

As a further disclaimer before you proceed I must also admit this is not meant to be an inventory of EVERY worthy selection—as there are many more out there I will surely omit as I have not read them yet—but for the sake of brevity and focus here I will choose a handful of my favorites to comment on. Indeed, since opinions are plentiful when it comes to any special area of interest my remarks may not be wholly original or illuminating, but they are genuine—and in no particular order of importance. As ever I welcome any and all observations that agree or disagree!


Have A Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks by Mick Foley

If this well-written autobiography is not already on the top of everyone’s “must read” list it should be. While there were inevitably many previous forays into the literary universe by professional wrestlers before this book was published in 1999, it can be safely argued “Mamma Foley’s little boy” revived and even revolutionized the genre with his initial offering. Not only did he prove to the publishing industry that (some) professional wrestlers can write their own stories without the heavy babysitting of a ghost writer—paving the way for those who would follow—he would top the 700-plus page best-selling tome with two more brilliant offerings.

For the sake of objectivity and awesomeness I will include Foley is Good: And the Real World is Faker Than Wrestling (2001) and The Hardcore Diaries (2007) here under the same commentary as one entry. Likewise, over the years Mick has put his mark in the world of kid and adult fiction to varying degrees of success but I maintain his best work with the pen—as he reportedly likes to write freehand—was done when he inspired the world by simply sharing his story. Personally, I did not find the books a long read at all and found myself wanting more…wanting to know more and experience more with this “hardcore legend” who is all at once captivating, funny and true to his calling. Mick is just so likeable and annoyingly normal as a father, husband and all around hard working character it almostmakes you think you know him because he knows himself so well. He might not be a crazy man or a supersized love machine but he has played them both on TV…thank you Mick and keep up thegood work!


Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling by Bret Hart

Ok…first of all…like many I did grow up watching the Hitman on television through his early days in the WWF (WWE) on to WCW but I must admit I never really became more than a passing fan. Sure I thought he was gifted, charismatic and great at his job I just could never get all the way there to call him one of my favorites. Indeed, I would cheer or jeer him with the antics of the Hart Foundation depending on how the prevailing winds blew but if I had to pick a favorite it would have been his brother Owen that would emerge my Hart of choice.

Times change of course and people change with them and when I finally got around to reading his biography published in 2009 the excellently executed memoir (pun intended) got me. Forget all the details of his many feuds and matches—he kept a thorough record of his career—and the insider perspective ofthe well-oiled machine that is the WWE…forget that he is a very talented artist and comes from wrestling royalty…forget his unabashed side of the “Montreal screwjob” and how he battled back after his 2002 stroke…forget his apparent success with the ladies around the world and his tumultuous family life…forget all of that and you still have a man who had a dream, worked hard to make it happen and paved the way in his chosen industry for others as an innovator and true master of the ring. He may have not made a full convert of me just yet to wear the pink and black with pride like he has for some many years, but this book is a damn fine read written by a damn fine wrestler.


A Lion's Tale: Around the World of Spandex by Chris Jericho

A talented musician, actor, wrestler and all around entertainer Y2J is no “bottom feeder” himself when it comes to telling his tale and sharing his journey. From his days as an up-and-comer training hard in Canada at the Hart Brothers School of Wrestling to his trial-and-error labors in Mexico and Japan, Jericho’s 2007 book is as astute mixture of humor and gusto with a strong dash of intelligence and willpower to show what it takes to make it to the WWE.

As with his fellow scribe and WWE alumnus Mick Foley he would follow up this offering in 2011 with another popular memoir called Undisputed: How to Become the World Champion in 1,372 Easy Steps which chronicles his voyage through the rough seas of the WWE to international stardom. In cementing his status as one of the best talkers in the world of professional wrestling (and as the first undisputed WWE champ) this shining duo of books emerges to enthrall and assure you this accolade is worthy of the man in the shiny jacket.


In the Pit With Piper by “Rowdy” Roddy Piper

The addition of this memoir may come as a surprise to some but I think it has a place (on my list at least) as a truly necessary read for any serious connoisseur of wrestling legend. Published in 2002 it clocked in at a mere 250-plus pages and certainly did not break any records but it was one ofthe few that I liked so much I ended up buying a copy to keep on my shelf. If the frolicking craziness that is one of the best wrestling journeys of all time does not grab you, the humor and sheer passion of arguably the greatest heel of all-time will. Maybe it is not the best written biography that you will ever read—it never really finds it flow—but it is certainly one of the most honest, gut-wrenching and representative accounts of one man’s hard journey through a business he also helped to pioneer. Opinions…yep Roddy has them in spades and shares them freely about the WWE, other wresters and the “sickness” that drives and stains the industry and exactly what he thinks about what he thinks. The book, like the man, is a study of perseverance and pain…tragedy and triumph…but it is one that as equally funny and educational.


Bobby The Brain: Wrestling's Bad Boy Tells All by Bobby Heenan

With the help of Steve Anderson “The Brain” indeed tells all and pulls no punches in his 2002 memoir. In 2004 he would add Chair Shots and Other Obstacles: Winning Life's Wrestling Matches to his literary repertoire and together these books paint a vivid picture of a brilliant man with a brilliant mind for the business that is professional wrestling. His perspective is fascinating from the side of a lifelong fan of the industry that did well in it just by the sheer genius of his mind and audacity of his tongue. Indeed, through the often blunt, sometimes poignant words of “The Weasel” we are reminded that all successful forerunners to what we know as the erstwhile sport of professional wrestling were/are not always wrestlers (though he did wrestle bears in Canada and pay his dues) or promoters.

Married to his dear wife Cindy for over 45 years “The Brain” is an altogether surprising family man and quick to praise his fellow “humanoids” as well as remain brutally honest and forthcoming. If you are after frank details concerning the ongoing effects of his battle with throat cancer you got them and never one to miss an opportunity Heenan has a rhythm and rhyme of speaking that is all his own and can never be duplicated. Some of the world’s best wrestlers have been part of his extended “Heenan Family” (don’t call them a stable) but it is from his example we look at the state of the business and wonder “where have all the good managers gone?” ]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41703-“If-I-Could-Be-Serious-For-a-Moment” http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41667-Debut-101-Bray-Wyatt Fri, 11 May 2012 16:50:29 GMT In his time so far in the WWE (and multiple apprenticeshipsin FCW) Mike Rotunda’s big boy—better known as Husky Harris to most—has demonstrated great... In his time so far in the WWE (and multiple apprenticeshipsin FCW) Mike Rotunda’s big boy—better known as Husky Harris to most—has demonstrated great talent and potential. Now, I haveto be honest when I first heard of his new persona emerging as of late in FCW—this erstwhile “Bray Wyatt” character—I was not impressed or drawn in. Why would he want to change his name yet again? Is he still searching for that special character and that one identity that is all his own? I was not impressed, of course, until I saw his promo and ring work so far as this somewhat familiar, yet eerily inventive Bray Wyatt.

If you have not taken a look yet hit up YouTube as soon as possible and do yourself a favor—if you even think you are a wrestling fan, a devotee of up and coming superstars that instantly grab you and make you believe you will want to follow the development of this future success story. I would not use the word original or fresh to describe this persona—the whole disturbed, southern-snake-oil-cult-leader vibe has been played before—but I would say this personality with all its charisma, ticks and“Max Cady” like inspiration fits this man like a glove. Indeed, the man who once bragged he was “The Army Tank with a Ferrari Engine” should be brought back up to the big leagues and given all the time and push needed to breathe Bray Wyatt to life in the WWE universe. Are we ready?

To that end I cannot help put ponder how best this character might be introduced and revealed to the mainstream wrestling world? I do not mean to criticize or belittle what has been brought to the table so far because it is what has got him all the welcome attention he deserves—I merely wish to offer my suggestion here of how I would utilize the opportunity if I was part of the WWE writingteam/management. As much as I want even now to see this persona on television as soon as possible (the WWE roster coulduse it) I would do it in a series of classic vignettes to slowly tease his arrival.

Likewise, what we may have seen of the character so far is specific and very creepy in a fascinating way I would offer advice on how to tweak it to make him even more memorable and fresh. His use of sinister laughs and giggles as well as the Stones’ “Time is on My Side” alone is exceedingly disturbing and, all at once, an instant “woah that works too well” moment. I think the key to this character is a mixture of a calm demeanor with an underlying intensity barely kept in check. Part “good old boy” and part psycho is another way to look at it and the element of using time in some way as with a watch or having him talk about it in different ways in his promo work would be different—he might even dust off the old Ali trick of calling how long it wouldtake him to defeat someone in the ring. Anyway…there are a lot of possibilities and what follows is my take…hope you like it and enjoy!

Vignette 1: Should be short, simple and have that teasing quality we all know and hate just a little for its brevity and lack of detail. At first he should keep his voice even and tempered and only “lose it” at the perfect moment. Could go a little something like this…

(Open on an outside scene at night near a swamp…crickets and frogs and other creatures set the ambiance of what is heard…zoom in on a single, solitary figure sitting by a fire…he is wearing the straw fedora and sharpening a homemade knife on a whetstone…spit keeps the blade going...his face and features are barely illuminated but we can see enough to make us wonder “who is this guy?”)

Bray: (calm, talking to theknife, humming “Time is on My Side” at first and does not acknowledge the camera) …hey there little friend…how you doin’ this fine night? I hope all them good people in the world outthere are asleep and tucked away safe in they beds…wouldn’t want them to be sacred or nothin’ or lose they minds…

Me? Well…my name is Bray Wyatt and they tell me I have my mamma’s eyes and my daddy’s temper…well…some folks also like to call me a bugaboo or white trash peon but C'est lavie I say…

(turns finally to address the camera with intensity barely kept in check)

I was born in Lafayette Louisiana and I ain’t no white trash! I…am…better than you all!

(back to sharpening the knife and the intensity gone)

You see I may not have a lot of the material trappings of this greedy world…I may not have that fancy car or expensive education…but I do have a boat load of patience and understanding…you see cause “timmmeeee is on my side…”


Vignette 2: Same subtle creepiness with the same anticipated explosion of intensity and underlying home grown intelligence.

(Opens on the same scene as the first vignette by the fire. This time he is humming “Time is on My Side” while he is playing with the fire with his hands)

Bray: (calm, talking to the fire)...I was born in Lafayette Louisiana and my mamma went and named me Bray Wyatt…it was the only thing she could give me ‘fore the good Lord called her up a few minutes later…didn’t even get to hold her screamin’ little Bray Wyatt ‘fore the breath left her…

My daddy…well he blamed me for taking her away…blamed me for a lot of things…blamed me for his pain…blamed me for his shrimp boat business losing money….blamed me for every miserable day he lived on this earth…well I hated my daddy but at least the feelings were mutual…

He took an 8 year-old Bray Wyatt out of school to put to work…made me a hard patient boy who learned to read anyway…learned to write and what it took to live in this world of shameful decay and hollow dreams…Bray Wyatt doesn’t dream…

See one night daddy’s boat caught on fire and the captain…well the captain done went down into the Gulf with his ship…then I went away for awhile and people in white coats asked me “why did you stand there Bray Wyatt…how could you just watch your only daddy burn?” I didn’t give ‘em the answers they wanted…”how can you be so callous and cruel Bray Wyatt?” they would say…

(turns finally to address the camera with that intensity barely kept incheck)

I…am…not…a cruel man! I am the only honest man and I am better than you all!

(back playing with the fire and calm)

You see I know who and what I am…its alright though because everyone will know Bray Wyatt soon enough…will come to see how patient and understanding I am as indeed “timmmeeee is on my side…”


Vignette 3: More restrained creepiness and sinister undertones.

(Opens on the same scene as the other vignettes by the fire. This time he is humming “Time is on My Side” while looking at an old pocket watch with a long leather strap loop attached instead of a chain)

Bray: (calm, talking to the watch)...see here on this watch cover where it’s dented? That’s where my daddy took it and whopped me up side my head one too many times…on the back there…well that’s a burn mark from where it got singed in the boat fire that took my daddy…never mind how I got it ‘fore it went down with him…tick-tock goes the clock and time she runs and never stops…

This watch has power you see…time has power over every man and woman…every prince and principality…and just like Bray Wyatt this watch is honest and true to what it is…and just like Bray Wyatt it takes a beating and keeps on cheating…cheating the misery of this world that is…cheating the siren call of laziness and corruption that pollutes the minds and hearts of the good Lord’s creation…

My time…well ya’ll my time is coming and when it does it will be your time too…your time to finally face your fears and demons…to finally realize you lack a conscious and are in love with an immoral existence…some good folks might call me peculiar…or strange…but don’t call me crazy…never call me crazy…

(turns finally to address the camera with that intensity barely kept incheck)

I…am…not…crazy! I am the only sane man left and I am better than you all!

(back with the watch and calm again)

You see I know who I am and what folk needs…you need a conscious good people….you mean well but you are lost and vile and greedy…but Bray Wyatt…see Bray Wyatt has traveled beyond the need for fame or possessions…Bray Wyatt has evolved past the trappins’ that have trapped you…Bray Wyatt knows a thing or two about pain and traps… you will see how patient and understanding I am as indeed “timmmeeeeis on my side…”


Vignette 4: More of the same and as the last one before his debut it has to the home run!

(Opens on the same scene as the other vignettes by the fire. This time he is humming “Time is on My Side” while standing looking straight at the camera. We can see him now well-lit and in full effect. The watch from before is closed and dangling around his neck)

Bray: (calm, leaning over asif he is about to whisper)...my name is Bray Wyatt and all I am askin’ is for you to trust me…you can trust me to know you better than you know yourself…every deep dark secret you hide is like an old friend to Bray Wyatt…you see I am ony our side and I understand your pain…

Don’t be scared of Bray Wyatt because I just want to help you help yourself…I wouldn’t want to be that first guy in the ring with Bray Wyatt though…no sir that first guy will not really know what is comin’ until it hits him square…in…the…mouth…C'est lavie I say…that’s life alright…

I’m not your buddy though…no don’t make that mistake either…I ain’t coming to make friends just influence people…show good folk the error of their ways and set them down a course of honest faith…see Bray Wyatt has a strong faith…faith in himself and what he can create with these two strong hands…see what can create can also destroy and what does not kill you makes you stronger…no if you are on the straight and narrow you should not fear Bray Wyatt…

(looks down and here is that intensity barely kept in check)

Do…not…fear…me! I am but the messenger and I am better than you all!

(back looking into the camera and clam again)

You see time may be a cruel mistress but she teaches you things…things I can teach you to help you be a better you…you don’t need a boob tube or worldwide web to be better than you are…you don’t need stacks of money to be happy…maybe you don’t wanna hear that but that’s ok…I am a patient and understanding man… cause “timmmeeee is on my side…”


]]> scribblerking http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/community/entry.php?41667-Debut-101-Bray-Wyatt