Dolph Ziggler def. Kane (Count-out) Chris Jericho & The Hart Dynasty def. R-Truth & Cryme Tyme Luke Gallows def. Matt Hardy Beth Phoenix def. Layla Batista vs. Rey Mysterio (No Contest)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. The stakes were high in the nights No. 1 Contenders Match between Rey Mysterio and Batista. The winner would earn the opportunity to face World Heavyweight Champion Undertaker at Royal Rumble. But before a winner could be determined, an ominous darkness descended upon the arena, leaving both Superstars laying stunned in the ring.
Batista and Rey Mysterio predicted victory (PHOTOS | WATCH) At the start of the night, both Batista and Rey Mysterio vehemently proclaimed they would defeat the other and become the No. 1 Contender. With emotions running high, they went as far as saying the other would not walk away from the match. Their words proved true, but things didnt turn out quite as they predicted.
Batista vs. Rey Mysterio ended in a No Contest (PHOTOS | WATCH) After a back-and-forth war, it appeared as though The Animal was going to finish off The Master of the 619 with a Batista Bomb. But before he could execute the maneuver, the arena lights dimmed and the eerie sound of The Undertakers gong reverberated throughout the arena. When the lights came back on, Batista lay writhing in pain.
Seizing the moment, Mysterio took it to Batista, dropping him with the 619. But, before he could fully capitalize, the arena lights dimmed once again, coupled with the tolling of The Deadmans gong. When the lights came back on this time, both Superstars lay wasted in the ring.
Although The Phenom was never seen, his presence was felt throughout the WWE Universe, as bursts of fire shot from the top of the entrance ramp.
The ominous outcome leaves the lingering question. Who will claim the No. 1 Contender spot?
Dolph Ziggler def. Kane (Count-out) (PHOTOS | WATCH) Dolph Ziggler had his work cut out for him against The Big Red Monster Kane. After locking in a very effective sleeper hold outside of the ring, Ziggler was able to weaken Kane. As the ref belted out his 10-count, Ziggler waited for just the right moment to release the hold, jump in the ring and claim the win.
Chris Jericho & The Hart Dynasty def. R-Truth & Cryme Tyme (PHOTOS | WATCH) Kicked off Raw and no longer a tag team champion, Chris Jericho has been looking for respect on Friday nights. He gained a solid measure of it by leading his team to victory by making JTG submit with a brutally painful session in the Walls of Jericho.
CM Punk initiated a fan into the straightedge society (PHOTOS | WATCH) With Luke Gallows at his side, CM Punk followed up on his promise to save a member of the WWE Universe. A fan identified only as James was the chosen one. Assuaging James of his fears, the "Straightedge Savior" shaved his head, initiating him into the straightedge society.
Luke Gallows def. Matt Hardy (PHOTOS | WATCH) After a distraction by his mentor CM Punk, the Detoxified Disciple Luke Gallows defeated Matt Hardy with a ruthless Gallows Pole.
Beth Phoenix def. Layla (PHOTOS | WATCH) Showing no mercy, The Glamazon crushed Layla with a brutal Glam Slam. After the match, Womens Champion Michelle McCool jumped in the ring to attack Beth. With Layla holding Phoenixs legs, the champion launched an ugly assault.
Then chaos ensued when Mickie James stormed into the arena to attack McCool. After recovering, Phoenix cleared house, sending both McCool and Layla flying from the ring. But it was Mickie who got in the final blow, when she stunned Beth with a hard-hitting kick to the face sweet revenge for being attacked by The Glamazon last week.
RVD comments on the RAW vs. Impact battle Posted by Chris Kaufman on 01/07/2010 at 11:28 AM
Rob Van Dam has a new blog up on his MySpace, talking about the Monday Night War from this week between WWE and TNA. Here's what he wrote:
Monday night wrestling, lets talk about it. Many people have called,texted or emailed me to get my opinion of the live wrestling shows that competed for our viewership earlier this week. I can critique just like you, but lets talk about what we liked. I switched back and forth between both shows, just like you did. It was cool seeing the crowd reaction for Brett the Hitman Hart. I know he has wanted to step back in the ring for a long time and I have no doubt that the welcome back felt like a warm blanket in Canada. On the other show, the NWO appearing was a nice surprise, as was Jeff hardy in a big way. I was a little concerned since all the pre-Monday advertisements just said We got Hogan. They had a lot of ex-WWEers-whether money drawers or not-so the element of change and hope was in the air. I thought that was nice. They also had some good matches. fans like that. Im still confused on the schedule for TNAs Monday night shows.
I thought this was going to be an every-Monday night thing but Ive heard Im wrong on that. Anyone else confused with me? Anyone know what theyre doing?
Do we tune in again next week or next quarter or WTF?
Im sure that wrestling had its highest ratings in awhile so thats good and TNA mustve had their largest viewing audience. Many people have told me that they were glad I wasnt on Monday night. I dont think that I feel more inspired to return than I did before Monday, for that matter. I do hope that public interest in wrestling does grow as it would be good for everybody...except that guy that tried to blow up that airplane in Detroit. Hes f***ed!
I probably feel the same way that you do about Monday night. It intrigued me to watch, which I normally dont, and I believe Ill watch again next week...if its on.
Details on the song Hogan used at Impact Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/09/2010 at 05:46 PM
Hulk Hogans TNA entrance theme is actually not a new song as it can be heard on the WCW Nitro and WCW/nWo Thunder video games released on Playstation in the late nineties. At the time, a sound-alike was created because THQ didnt own the rights to the actual New World Order song.
World Wrestling Entertainment released former ECW performer Steve Lewington (a.k.a. DJ Gabriel) yesterday.
Lewington was split from Alicia Fox last April as a result of the 2009 Supplemental Draft, leaving the English grappler to fend for himself. Creative apparently had nothing for him considering he was soon shipped off to developmental. He never returned to the main roster.
Lewington had been under contract to WWE since April 2006.
There may have a few other releases in developmental yesterday, but they have yet to be confirmed.
Jeremy Borash said this morning during an appearance on the Pain Clinic radio show that TNA is expected to debut a big-name wrestler at the Genesis pay-per-view, which takes place on Jan. 17. He indicated it would be a "big surprise."
Gail Kim def. Jillian Ted DiBiase def. Chris Masters Yoshi Tatsu def. Caylen Croft Finlay def. Mike Knox
The first WWE Superstars of 2010 rang in the new year in the best way possible: With four hard-hitting matches! Boasting a match from the Divas Championship Tournament and a knock-down drag-out fight between two of SmackDowns toughest bruisers, even after the first episode this year promises to be another explosive one for WWE Superstars.
Dont know where to catch WWE Superstars? Find WGN America in your area. Can't see WWE Superstars on WGN America in your area? Stay with WWE.com for full results, photos and video clips of all the action.
Finlay def. Mike Knox (PHOTOS | WATCH) The WWE Universe knows to expect exciting matches whenever two Superstars step into the ring, but when two hardened ring warriors like Finlay and Mike Knox collide, our fans know to look for fireworks. Though the hulking Knox possessed the definitive size advantage, The Belfast Brawler would not be slowed down as he took the fight to his opponent in his trademark smashmouth style. Ultimately, Finlay felled his massive opponent, proving once again that he is one of the toughest Superstars on SmackDown or any other shows roster.
Yoshi Tatsu def. Caylen Croft (PHOTOS | WATCH) On ECW Yoshi Tatsu has proven himself to be one of the brands most promising young stars, catching the attention of ECW Champion Christian and the WWE Universe alike. But recently The Land of the Extreme has been host to an equally impressive tag team in the form of Caylen Croft & Trent Barreta. In his first singles outing, Croft went head-to-head with Tatsu on WWE Superstars. To the dismay of Crofts partner Baretta and the delight of Tatsus associate Goldust, the Japanese sensation pinned his opponent for the win.
Ted DiBiase def. Chris Masters (PHOTOS | WATCH) Since the inception of Legacy, Randy Ortons protégés, Ted DiBiase and Cody Rhodes have terrorized the Raw roster, going to any lengths to achieve victory over their opponents. But on WWE Superstars, DiBiase went one-on-one with his opponent, the impressive Chris Masters who was accompanied to the ring by the lovely Eve. Though The Masterpieces physique might be flawless, his Priceless rival found a chink in the armor, enabling DiBiase to walk away the victor.
Gail Kim def. Jillian (PHOTOS | WATCH) With the injury of reigning Divas Champion Melina, the title was vacated, leaving many of WWEs most talented Divas clamoring for the coveted prize. On WWE Superstars, two of those competitors, Gail Kim and Jillian squared off. Though both Divas competed fiercely, it was Gail who was victorious, moving one step closer to her first ever Divas Title.
Speaking of Hardy, his brother Matt continues to post teases on Twitter that he and Shane Helms are possibly going to TNA. Hardy has a history of trying to work the Internet although there have been rumors about Matt and Shane leaving WWE for TNA although they are unconfirmed.
It was announced during last night's Florida Championship Wrestling event that "International Superstar" Bryan Danielson will make his FCW debut at next week's television taping.
Danielson was reportedly rusty in his dark match with Chavo Guerrero this past Monday in Dayton, Ohio and asked to head to developmental in order to sharpen his skills.
In an interview with the UK Sun, WWE's Big Show says that with all the talk of young talent being elevated in WWE, it's not going ot be handed to them.
"I want to let you know flat out there's not anybody good enough to take my position," Show said. "And I'm certainly not going to give my position up just because I've been on top for a while, and nor would anyone else.
If there's another giant that can walk in and take my position, then good for him. He can run with it and I'll retire. Until then I'm going to work on top as long as I can, make as much money as I can and entertain the fans as much as I can. It's up to the younger generation to come to the locker room, step up and be leaders."
On the official Twitter of Beth Britt, Jeff Hardy's real-life girlfriend, she posted a tweet saying "I have no idea where these reports are coming from saying Jeff 'had a verbal agreement to return to WWE by a certain date.' That's 100% false".
Scott Steiner and Kip James were backstage at Tuesday's iMPACT tapings. While Steiner was expected to wrestle, he did not. Both stars were set to meet with TNA talent relations director Terry Taylor to talk about their futures with the company. It's said that Steiner's future with TNA has been in question for months. There were conflicting reports about Kip being released late last year but it appears he is still around.
PREVIEW FOR THURSDAY'S HUGE TNA "iMPACT!" ON SPIKE TV: HULK HOGAN, RIC FLAIR, SCOTT HALL, KEVIN NASH, SEAN WALTMAN AND MORE
On Thursday, TNA Wrestling returns to SpikeTV at 9/8c for two hours of Total Nonstop Action as the road to the January 17 "Genesis' Pay-per-View continues!
- "The Band" is reunited with Scott Hall, Kevin Nash and Sean Waltman - what's next for the controversial group?
- The legendary "Nature Boy" Ric Flair will be at TNA "iMPACT!" on Thursday night! Will we find out why he met with TNA World Heavyweight Champion "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles?
- TNA Wrestling Founder Jeff Jarrett will react to Hulk Hogan's comments last week!
Plus...
Desmond Wolfe vs. Samoa Joe Beer Money vs. Matt Morgan & Hernandez
And news on the upcoming "Genesis" Pay-Per-View! All this and much more on Thursday's "iMPACT!"
* ECW champion Christian came to the ring to talk about the Homecoming Tournament. CM Punk and Luke Gallows come out and Punk says he's going to win the tournament, title and fans the Straightedge way. Christian asked if Straightedge means looking like you haven't showered in two weeks. Christian tells Punk he's going to be squashed by Mark Henry and won't be facing him for the title at the Royal Rumble.
* In a ECW Homecoming tournament bout, Shelton Benjamin pinned Chavo Guerrero to advance.
* Zack Ryder and Rosa Mendes come out. Ryder cuts a promo saying last week he stopped the heart of ECW and 2010 will be the year of the Ryder.
* Ezekiel Jackson defeated Vladimir Kozlov.
* Backstage, Tony Atlas reminds Mark Henry of all the good times they had in the past on the road and offers to be in his corner tonight. Henry turns him down and walks away, leaving Atlas there laughing.
* CM Punk defeated Mark Henry after interference from Luke Gallows. Next week will be the Homecoming Finale to set up the Rumble title bout.
Update on Mickie James moving to Smackdown Posted by Chris Kaufman on 01/06/2010 at 05:04 PM
Credit: F4WOnline.com
Dave Meltzer said this past week on Wrestling Observer Radio that the other reason Mickie James was moved to Smackdown besides an apparent weight issue was that she was annoying certain people backstage on RAW by being too emotional about a relationship she had just broken up from. Company officials felt it was best to move her "to get her out of their hair."
Jeff Hardy removed from WWE opening Posted by Chris Kaufman on 01/06/2010 at 12:05 PM
Thanks to PWInsider.com for the following:
As seen at the beginning of the January 5th edition of ECW, WWE has again edited the opening to its television programming. Recently, Hulk Hogan was removed from the opening and replaced with the "Million Dollar Man" Ted Dibiase, and Mick Foley was removed and replaced with Jeff Hardy. Following his return to TNA on Monday, Hardy himself has now been replaced with Kofi Kingston. Surprisingly, "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, who also appeared on TNA programming this past Monday, and who is more prominently featured than Hardy in the opening, has not been removed... at least not yet.
According to a new report by Dave Meltzer, Ric Flair signed his deal with TNA Wrestling just a few days before the big Monday night event on January 4th in Orlando, FL. According to Meltzer, Flair's deal with TNA is allegedly for 65 appearances over a one year period. The belief at this time is that he will be working on a guaranteed money deal and he would still be able to book his own outside appearances (either involving public appearances or business deals). Any reports suggesting that Flair's deal with TNA was through Panda Energy if anything were to happen with TNA long-term have not been confirmed at this time.
Team 3D lost the IWGP Tag Team championships to Tetsuya Naito and Yujiro in a three-way hardcore tag match yesterday. The other team involved was Giant Bernard & Karl Anderson. Also Chris Kanyon turned 40 years old yesterday.
TNA officials had low expectations for the ratings on Monday night. The main goal amongst those within the company was just to carry the normal Impact audience and do at least a 1.0 cable rating. All expectations were exceeded with the company setting their rating record with a 1.5 and I'm told it's very likely TNA will permanently move to Monday nights in the 9 to 11 PM timeslot on Spike TV.
Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff have been adamant about the show airing live on Monday nights to compete with WWE Raw.
WWE officials are unhappy with this week's Raw rating. Though TNA provided competition, they felt Bret Hart's return to the company would have garnered at least a 4.0. The show finished with a 3.6 cable rating, the same number as last week. The show drew hours of 3.51 and 3.73 with the first hour scoring 5,441,000 viewers and hour two pulling in 5,773,000. Raw averaged 5,600,000 for the broadcast.
WWE sources were reportedly caught off guard by Jeff Hardy's appearance on Impact, as there was been a rumor floating around that Hardy had verbally agreed to return to WWE.
There is also word that Vince McMahon "no-sold" the news of Hardy going to TNA.
SPIKE TVS TNA iMPACT DELIVERS ITS HIGHEST RATINGS EVER FOR HULK HOGANS DEBUT IN SPECIAL LIVE EPISODE
2.2 Million Tune-In For Live Three-Hour Telecast
New York, NY, January 5, 2010 Hulk Hogans first appearance on Spike TVs special three-hour live TNA iMPACT on Monday, January 2 (8:00-11:05pm) drew 2.2 million viewers. This marks the most-watched "TNA iMPACT" in the history of the franchise, totaling 222 episodes dating back to October, 2005. The previous high was 1.97 million viewers reached last April
The event was broadcast from the TNA iMPACT! Zone at Universal Studios in Orlando, Fl. Airing head-to-head with WWE on USA Network, TNA iMPACT peaked at 2.9 million viewers from 9:00-9:15pm ET/PT.
Overall, the telecast drew a 1.5 household rating, a 1.8 in Men 18-34, and a 1.6 in Men 18-49. For the time period, TNA iMPACT was up a whopping +338% in M18-34, +241% in M18-49, and +84% in average audience versus a year ago.
RESULTS FROM MONDAY'S LIVE "iMPACT!" ON SPIKE TV - DON'T MISS THE REPLAY THIS THURSDAY ON SPIKE TV!
If you missed Monday's historic TNA "iMPACT!" broadcast, catch the replay this Thursday on SpikeTV! The epic event featured Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Sting, Jeff Hardy, Eric Bischoff, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, Sean Waltman, new champions crowned and so much more!
Check back later for photos and video from Monday's huge broadcast!
- The huge event started with a recap of TNA Wrestling's history, all leading to this huge night!
- Bubba The Love Sponge was introduced as the newest member of TNA Wrestling's broadcast team
- In the first bout, the high-flying superstars of TNA's X Division competed in the Steel Asylum match. However, the first of many surprises on the night took place when Jeff Hardy's music played, leading to the "Charismatic Enigma" appearing! Hardy hit the ring, took the fight to Homicide and then climbed to the top of the Steel Asylum structure as the Impact Zone went insane!
- Footage was shown of Hulk Hogan's limo traveling to the Impact Zone
- Christy Hemme interviewed Kevin Nash about the future of TNA. Nash said he was excited to make more money, and that he spoke to Hulk - and Hulk wasn't coming alone.
- ODB won the Knockouts Championship by beating Tara, using a handful of tights to get the win and regain the gold she lost at Final Resolution. After the match, Tara hit the Widow's Peak finisher for revenge, then put her tarantula on ODB
- In a huge surprise, the legendary "Nature Boy" Ric Flair was shown arriving to TNA Wrestling! Flair entered the building and went into AJ Styles' locker room!
- Footage was shown of Mick Foley attempting to enter the "iMPACT!" Zone, however, security refused him entry
- "The Boss" Bobby Lashley came to the ring with Kristal! Kristal did all the talking, and ended up insulting wrestling fans for the lack of respect they feel Lashley has been shown. She stated this would be the last time that fans would see Lashley, and that they were demanding Lashley be released from his TNA contract!
- The Beautiful People took part in their Strip Poker Tournament, with footage airing throughout the program. Later in the broadcast, a familiar face wearing a towel interrupted their game! The Beautiful People accepted his offer to join in on the game!
- Scott Hall and Sean Waltman were shown trying to get into the arena. When they were stopped by security, Hall and Waltman and security had to be separated
- After a commercial break, Hogan's limo was shown, when a second limo pulled up and a mysterious figure got out and entered Hulk's limo! Back inside the arena, Hall and Waltman made their way inside the Impact Zone!
- The legendary Hulk Hogan made his long-awaited TNA Wrestling debut, hitting the ring as the crowd went crazy! Hulk talked about coming to TNA and getting ready to make history. However, as Hulk was talking, Hall and Waltman climbed over the rail and caused a distraction. Hulk invited them in the ring if they wanted to talk, and Hall and Waltman told him they were here to party. But, Hogan told them it's a new day in TNA Wrestling, and that means change! Hall and Waltman argued with Hulk, bringing out Kevin Nash! Nash joined Hall and Waltman in questioning Hulk - leading to the TNA debut of Eric Bischoff! Bischoff hit the ring and told Hall and Waltman that everyone had to earn their spot in TNA Wrestling, and that it was time to change TNA. Hall, Nash and Waltman backed down and left the ring, leaving Bischoff and Hogan in the ring. They tore up the format for the night, the first of many changes coming to TNA!
- Sting was then shown in the rafters...he had been there the entire time watching Hogan and Bischoff! Sting hasn't been in TNA in months! What will be his reaction to everything that's happened?!
- Awesome Kong and Hamada became the new TNA Knockout Tag Team Champions by beating Taylor Wilde and Sarita in an action-packed match! In the end, Awesome kong held up Sarita as Hamada hit a top rope dropkick into an Awesome Kong powerbomb! The referee awarded the TNA Knockouts Tag Team Titles to the new champions!
- Mick Foley once again tried to make his way into the arena....followed by the arrival of The Nasty Boys!
- Up next, Raven and Dr. Stevie took on the team of Matt Morgan and Hernandez, with the winner earning a TNA World Tag Team Title shot against The British Invasion at Genesis on January 17. Morgan and Hernandez got the quick pin when Morgan hit his Carbon Footprint finisher on Dr. Stevie for the win! Morgan and Hernandez get the tag team title shot at the Pay-Per-View
- Backstage, Christy Hemme interviewed "The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero about his match tonight against Desmond Wolfe. However, he was interrupted by Orlando Jordan! The Pope certainly wasn't happy about the interruption.
- D'Angelo Dinero beat Desmond Wolfe with a small package! A huge win for The Pope on a grand stage!
- Earlier, The Motor City Machineguns were shown knocked out backstage. Then, JB found Rhino had been attacked! Bubba The Love Sponge then came onto the scene to follow the situation.
- In the back, JB interviewed AJ Styles about his upcoming "Genesis" Pay-Per-View main event World Title match against Kurt Angle. However, AJ was interrupted by Eric Bischoff, who announced we wouldn't have to wait until "Genesis" and that AJ would defend the World Title later in the show against Kurt Angle!
- TNA Wrestling Founder Jeff Jarrett came out to the ring and spoke about starting TNA Wrestling in 2002. Jarrett said with great emotion that he was proud to be standing in the middle of the ring live on a Monday night! However, Hulk Hogan interrupted Jarrett on the big screen - and Hogan wasn't happy. Hogan said it was true Jarrett started TNA, but Hogan said Jarrett almost ran it into the ground and that Dixie Carter was the one responsible for saving it. Hogan said he was now Dixie Carter's partner, and that Jarrett's past accolades and titles meant nothing to him. Hogan said Jarrett no longer had any power, and that he needed to get in line and prove himself like everyone else. Hogan told Jarrett to "lace them up and be ready".
- Backstage, Christy Hemme interviewed Daniels. However, JB interrupted as Mick Foley called him trying to get into the arena. Foley busted past Borash and went looking for Hogan
- Backstage, Jeff Hardy was talking with Shannon Moore about meeting with Hulk Hogan
- Abyss battled Samoa Joe in a physical bout. During the bout, Sting was shown backstage! During the bout, with the referee distracted, Samoa Joe nailed Abyss with a steel chair. Joe locked on the Clutch, and after Abyss failed to get to the ropes. Abyss was forced to tap out.
- Backstage, Kristal confronted Eric Bischoff after Bobby Lashley's demands. She demanded a meeting with Hulk Hogan - in turn, Bischoff told her to take a number, get in line and to drop her attitude. Kristal told her Lashley wouldn't be happy.
- Bubba The Love Sponge found Beer Money knocked out in the back!
- The Nasty Boys tried to get back in, but security still wouldn't let them. Bubba The Love Sponge distracted security so The Nasty Boys could sneak in.
- Jeff Hardy and Shannon Moore were shown leaving with two envelopes, which they said is "what they came for" (referring to their meeting with Hulk Hogan). Before leaving, Hardy gave his painting to a group of fans.
- The Nasty Boys found Team 3D's locker room and proceeded to tear it apart!
- It was time for the TNA World Heavyweight Title match, as champion "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles defended against Kurt Angle! It started off fast with plenty of action, but the mysterious masked man came out to attack Styles! However, Angle fought him off, as Kurt didn't want anyone to interfere! It was an amazing back-and-forth bout, with both men going all-out and using all of their high-impact arsenal. Later, "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair came out to watch the main event! In the end, AJ was able to hit another 450 splash on Angle to get the win and retain the gold in a monumental match! After the match, Angle raised AJ's hand in victory!
- After the main event, Hulk Hogan came out and said AJ Styles and Kurt Angle were the two greatest wrestlers in the world! Hulk said that history had been made and it was only the beginning! However, Hulk was interrupted and told that Mick Foley had arrived! Foley demanded to know where Hogan was backstage! Foley eventually found Hogan's office, but Bischoff was there. Bischoff told Foley that he no longer had any power in TNA Wrestling. Foley went to knock out Bischoff, but Nash, Hall and Waltman attacked Foley as Hogan watched on and the broadcast came to an end!
- WWE Superstar JTG of Cryme Tyme apparently wasn't invited to last night's RAW in Dayton. He said on Twitter that he was a "lil pisst" about not being there to meet his hero, Bret Hart.
Thanks to Scott & Lori of PWInsider.com for the following live notes from RAW last night:
The weather was cold, but the crowd was HOT and looking forward to a great evening of wrestling. Unlike the last WWE event we attended here, the place was packed. If I had to rate it, I'd give it a thumbs-in-the-middle. It wasn't a bad show (goodness knows we've seen a few of those lately), but WWE needed to knock it out of the park last night and they got a single.
Brian Danielson defeated Chavo Guerrero in a Superstars dark match. came out to a huge pop when they announced his name and there were lots of "Lets go dragon." chants throughout the match. He looked much like he did when he was here in May. We didn't make the September ROH show as the Air Force Marathon was the next morning.
As already reported, Superstars saw Gail Kim defeat Jillian in the Divas Championship Tournament. Not sure if it will come through, but the crowd was way into Gail Kim and just crapped on Jillian. She was just lousy. Her singing was pretty bad too.
Michael Cole came out to polite applause but Jerry Lawler hot a good pop.
We've been to several WWE events at the Nutter Center before, but I must admit I don't think I've heard a louder audience when Bret Hart's music hit and he came out.
I've got to be honest, several weeks of teasing and hyping and I thought the Bret/Shawn segment fell flat like the Nevada Salt Flats. The crowd wanted a fight or a confrontation as least and they got a love fest. I thought it was interesting that WWE was removing signs critical of Cena, DX and the like that were across from the hard cameras, but allowed anti Bret signs to stay.
Maryse and Brie Bella had as good a match as they could. Couldn't see too much as some jackass on the floor had a 4'x4' sign blocking my view throughout the match. From out vantage point, Maryse's facials when the Bellas attempted their switcharoo was great. Wish her ring work was as good.
Jack Swagger, MVP, Carlito and Mark Henry and what I thought was a really fun match. I really think Mark Henry is hugely overlooked as he carried the match and made it work. I would have preferred Mark going over, but MVP was fine. Jack Swagger and MVP looked good, but I think Carlito was phoning home or something. He didn't seem as crisp and didn't react to much of anything. Might just be our vantage point.
The Jericho/Big Show and Jericho/Bret Hart segments just didn't work well. The crowd didn't react much, until Jericho came out later; then he got his heat.
I don't understand why the crowd loves Hornswoggle, but they did. Big pop for DX, Hornswoggle and Santino. Nice way to bring out the new Mattel stuff, but seriously, throw Hornswoggle into the lake behind the Nutter Center and leave him there.
Jerisho versus DX wasn't a bad match, but it was predictable. Jericho got a lot heat from the crowd. DX got a huge a pop from the crowd. The crowd got into the match and there were a few chants for Big Show to turn on Jericho. After the match everyone started signing "HEY HEY HEY" and then DX tried to start it. Good timing folks. I'm sure we'll get blamed for not taking our cues better.
You could tell all the Vince pretapes were exactly that as in the background, you can see the arena floor all lit up. Did Vince really just blow off Orton? And Orton took it without comment? Really? More importantly, did Legacy just grow a pair?
I feel sorry for Evan Bourne. He looks amazing when he's allow to. But this was a squash and it was. With the number of Dayton indy guys in attendance, WWE could have used any of them to achieve the same effect. Be afraid Brian Danielson, be very afraid.
On to the main event. Kofi Kingston and Randy Orton. Kofi came out huge. Orton got a lot of heat, but there were a few Orton chants through the match. The match was fine I guess. 4' sign guy blocked a lot of my sight throughout. There were more Orton chants throughout.
More love-fest. Again, the crowd wanted something and they got a cheap shot by Vince. I suspect he came across as heat, but the crowd was not happy with the ending. A LOT of people started to leave during this segment.
Afterwards, all the the wrestlers lead by the Hart Dynasty came out and spent a little time in the ring with Bret. The crowd that was left loved this. After that all of the Wrestlers left the ring and stage while the Hart Dynasty waiting on stage. Bret walked around the ring area, shook hands, took pictures and signed stuff for a good 20 minutes. Finally he got to the stage with waiting Hart Dynasty and they took a final bow.
DAYTON, Ohio - Like unicorns, the Loch Ness monster and the lost city of Atlantis, the return of Bret Hart to WWE seemed merely the stuff of legend, a sight among the WWE faithful that would never come to fruition.
Then it happened. After a controversial exit and a 12-year absence, The Excellence of Execution agreed to return to WWE as the first special guest host of Raw to kick off the new year. Even Bigfoot himself couldnt have proven a more exciting host or more shocking.
Mr. McMahon betrayed Bret Hart (PHOTOS | WATCH) Closure. If Bret Harts appearance on Monday Night Raw could be summed up in one world, thats it. The former five-time WWE Champion and WWE Hall of Famer seemed determined to bring perspective and resolution to the controversial events of the past, most glaringly the infamous Montreal Screwjob.
Like a leery mountain lion guarding his pride, Mr. McMahon invited Hart into the ring. While the two proud men initially reacted defensively, trading cold words and icy glares, their distrust eventually began to thaw. The Chairman even announced that Harts father, famous trainer Stu Hart, would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this spring.
After the two had shaken hands and raised their arms in a triumphant truce, however, Mr. McMahon reverted back to form, hitting the WWE Hall of Famer with a low blow that left him in a fetal position in the center of the ring.
Randy Orton def. Kofi Kingston (PHOTOS | WATCH) Last Monday, Randy Orton gave his Legacy charges, Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase, an ultimatum: Win your match or be barred from the group. This week, the Legacy ringleader was forced to choke down a spoonful of his own medicine. Earlier in the evening, Rhodes & DiBiase confronted their mentor and told him that if he lost his match against Kofi Kingston, he would be booted from the group.
With Rhodes & DiBiase looking on at ringside, The Viper clashed with Kingston in a rivalry that has boiled over several times in the past. On this occasion, though, Orton would prevail, perhaps in part due to a bit of unexpected incentive.
WWE Champion Sheamus def. Evan Bourne (PHOTOS | WATCH) Sheamus continued his frightening reign. After retaining his title last week against John Cena, the WWE Champion came crowing. After bragging that he is now the best there is and the best there will ever be, Sheamus was confronted by a courageous Evan Bourne, who stepped forth to challenge him. While the high-flyer demonstrated that speed and agility can stagger a giant, The Celtic Warrior managed to hinder and hobble Bourne, persisting on his path of ruin.
Mike Tyson to serve as special guest host next week (STORY) A man comfortable with destroying opponents inside a ring, Mike Tyson, will act as special guest host of Raw next week. This wont be the first time the boxing legend has joined Raw, and this time is sure to be just as memorable.
Unified Tag Team Champions DX def. Chris Jericho & Big Show (PHOTOS | WATCH) Chris Jericho had his chances. The SmackDown Superstar and his partner, Big Show, held the Unified Tag Team Championships for months, which allowed Jericho to appear on all WWE brands, including Raw. Last month, however, Jeri-Show dropped the titles to Triple H & Shawn Michaels. Ever since, the arrogant Superstar has done everything in his power to recapture the titles, which would once again allow him to launch his petty attacks on Raw.
Jerichos whining, however, simply wasnt enough. When Jeri-Show teamed up against DX, The Game and HBK, with a little help from Hornswoggle, managed to overcome their opponents and bid Jericho a gleeful goodbye.
MVP def. Mark Henry, Carlito and Jack Swagger (PHOTOS | WATCH) United States Champion The Miz loves to be seen and, unfortunately, heard. Which may explain why he sat in on commentary to watch the Fatal Four Way Match featuring MVP, Mark Henry, Carlito and Jack Swagger to determine the No. 1 contender for the U.S. Title. When the dust, and Mizs mouth, finally settled, Montel Vontavious Porter emerged victorious among the field and will face the self-proclaimed Awesome Superstar for the championship.
Maryse def. Brie Bella (PHOTOS | WATCH) In the wake of a serious leg injury that will have Melina out for several months, WWE has arranged a Divas Championship Tournament to determine a new champion. The first round witnessed Maryse facing off against Brie Bella, who was accompanied by her twin sister, Nikki. Just as it appeared the conceited Canadian had gained an advantage, Nikki switched places with her weary sister. After a futile attempt to alert the referee, the beautiful blond took matters into her own lethal hands and finished Nikki off herself to prevail and move to the next round.
Guest host Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels reconciled (PHOTOS | WATCH) The conclusion of the WWE Title Match at Survivor Series 1997 between then-champion Bret Hit Man Hart and Shawn Michaels remains one of the most controversial episodes in WWE history. Hart was forced to relinquish his title to HBK after the referee called for a quick bell while Michaels had his opponent locked in Harts signature submission hold, The Sharpshooter, despite the fact that Hart never submitted.
The incident, known as the Montreal Screwjob, left a bitter taste in Harts mouth, including a palpable disdain for both Michaels and the man who orchestrated his defeat, Mr. McMahon.
While revenge has always nourished motivation, time continues to mend old wounds, which seemed to be the case when Hart addressed the audience at the top of Raw. Not only did the former five-time WWE Champion and WWE Hall of Famer thank the WWE Universe for their support, he also called out Michaels in an effort to bury the hatchet.
Michaels obliged, and the two talked openly about their feelings from that night and beyond. The men concluded their conversation with a handshake and, eventually, a heartfelt embrace. Perhaps in a forgiving mood, Hart even called out Mr. McMahon, who nonetheless did not emerge to join the two in the ring.
TNA and Spike TV thrilled with Impact rating Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/05/2010 at 07:27 PM
Officials from both TNA Wrestling and Spike TV are ecstatic about last nights 1.5 cable rating the live edition of Impact did on the cable network. The company knew they were in for a fight airing on a different night, in a different timeslot against the Fiesta Bowl on FOX and of course WWE RAW featuring Bret Hart.
TNA President Dixie Carter just posted this on Twitter:
"Thank you, thank you for helping TNA set RECORD ratings in every way last night. We ALL won."
Flair upset Hogan didn't invite him to Impact? Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/04/2010 at 02:11 PM
Hulk Hogan called into The Bob & Tom Show this morning and the first thing he did was cut a huge in-character promo regarding Ric Flair. Hogan said "Naitch" left a rambling message on his answering machine last night being really upset that he didn't invite him to tonight's Impact.
Later during the call-in, Hogan said he is not going to make pro wrestling like it was, but rather, better than it used to be. He also put over AJ Styles, calling him the best pound-for-pound wrestler in the world today.
- The Young Bucks are in Orlando for tonight's TNA Impact tapings and are expected to wrestle but that could change.
- Title changes at last night's Impact saw ODB defeat Tara for the Knockouts Title and the team of Hamada & Awesome Kong defeat Taylor Wilde & Sarita for the Knockouts Tag Titles.
- TNA will tape Impact tonight in Orlando at the Impact Zone with the fallout from last night's three-hour show. Tonight's tapings won't air until next Thursday, January 14th.
- Matt Morgan and Hernandez are the new #1 contenders to the TNA World Tag Team Titles.
- Former WWE Superstar Brian Kendrick is expected to start with TNA soon. He may make his debut in the Steel Cage Asylum match for the X Division Title tonight.
Hogan responds to comments made by CM Punk Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/04/2010 at 03:00 PM
Credit: PWInsider.com
Hulk Hogan responded to comments made by CM Punk about him this morning on the BJ Shea Morning Experience show in Seattle.
Hogan listened to the comments and said, "Well, you know, it's kind of like the law of attraction. He's probably going to attract more of that negative stuff to his career because, you know, if you're functioning on that level, that's probably what you are going to attract, but at the end of the day, you know, I was selling out Madison Square Garden when that kid was pooping in his diapers, so you know, you're going to see what I'm all about. I'm not there to wrestle. I don't have a contract to wrestle. I'm there to run this company. Make it better, like I said, give the talent a choice. All the talents that are locked in there...I'm sure Vince McMahon is giving CM Punk the big push but paying him crumbs, because I know how that goes, because I'm giving the fans a choice, and the talent a choice and I'm going to prove to this negative guy that he's wrong."
When asked about Punk making a personal attack on Hogan, The Hulkster said, "That's cool. I understand he's surrounded by negative stuff up there and I can see why he's jaded in his opinion. One of the things that I learned a long time ago is that you can't judge anyone. You can't judge a book by it's cover. Some of the craziest looking, weirdest people seem to be the nicest people and the most honest people in the world. I would never judge anyone before I meet them. Some day down the road, CM Punk and I are probably going to work together and I would never judge him under any preconceived notions. I would judge him on the type of person he was when I met him. It's all good, brother. I am vibing so high brother. I am going to reward those who are with me and those who aren't my friends, I am going to win them over and make them my friends."
- Former WCW and NWO star Scott Norton teased on Twitter that he might be at tonight's TNA Impact. This would be the first time that Norton's name has been brought up regarding tonight's show.
As noted before, Bryan Danielson defeated Chavo Guerrero in a dark match before tonight's RAW. Danielson is expected to be called up to the main roster very soon.
Regarding Bryan Danielson, he is under contract to World Wrestling Entertainment, but basically being paid to stay at home. Considering he's expected to bypass developmental, there has been no talk of a potential start date. Everything is on hold for the time being as he's living in Las Vegas and training at the Xtreme Couture gym.
WWE confirmed on their website this afternoon that WWE Divas Champion Melina is injured.
Melina will be forced to vacate her title on tonights RAW. An eight-Divas tournament will begin on RAW tonight to crown a new Divas Champion. The participants will be Kelly Kelly, Maryse, Alicia Fox, Jillian Hall, Gail Kim, Eve Torres, Brie Bella and Nikki Bella.
WWE mocking TNA's hype for Impact? Posted by Chris Kaufman on 01/03/2010 at 08:31 PM
According to a report on F4WOnline.com, the WWE creative team remains without any worry that TNA will make a major statement during the wrestling companies' head-to-head battle Monday night
That is not to say WWE creative team members and other employees are not interested in seeing what TNA offers Monday - it is simply a sign that WWE is not currently afraid of the potential impact the Hulk Hogan debut could have on its dominance.
Within WWE, there has also been some mocking of the fact that the only matches TNA is definitively hyping are Knockouts bouts (the "Steel Asylum" match does not have the competitors hyped). Some this weekend were joking that WWE should put Maryse on television every time a Knockouts match airs to show that one woman could dominate the other company's entire division in the ratings.
Former WWE Diva interested in TNA? Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/04/2010 at 02:19 AM
Former WWE Diva Jackie Gayda-Haas noted in a new website blog that she would not mind returning to professional wrestling if the door came "a knockin'" again, possibly teasing TNA. The wife of WWE Superstar Charlie Haas wrote:
"Within this past ten years, things have drastically changed for all of us, there is no doubt about that. Venturing into the fitness industry through the eyes of track and field was my goal towards the turn of the century, only to be side-railed by a profession that I would have never dreamed, that of professional wrestling. From flying from the top rope as a WWE Diva and then onto a Total Non Stop Action Knockout, I took my greatest challenge on of becoming a mom. A mom that could not get enough of the lifestyle of fitness. Incorporating what is IMPORTANT TO YOU into your daily routine is what is going to make this decade so great for all of us. For me, that meant and still will mean training for not only the continuation of triathlons next season but also readying myself to be compete on the fitness stage for the very first time. And who knows, if the door of professional wrestling comes "a knockin'" once again (*hint hint*), I may just be answering."
- Friend of Hulk Hogan, Bubba the Love Sponge, announced on his Twitter that he is the new "backstage guy" for TNA Impact. He noted that he will be appearing around four times on this week's show.
RVD claims he's not going to be at Impact or RAW Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/03/2010 at 08:23 PM
In a new blog on his official website www.robvandam.com, Rob Van Dam revealed where he will be tomorrow, and it won't be RAW or Impact:
"The wrestling business is exciting for the first time in quite awhile. This Monday kicks off the new ratings war between WWE and TNA-like I have to tell you! I admit, I am interested in the hype. In fact, I feel like Im involved with this new era just because of the ginormous rumors involving me and a return. Im going to say this-even though I know it wont do much good-dont be mad at me that you tuned in to see your favorite wrestler and I wasnt there. Im going to be watching with you."
RVD also commented on Steve Williams' death:
"We said goodbye to Doctor Death Steve Williams at the end of 2009. Anyone will tell you Doc was a mans man. Known for being one of the legit tough guys in the business, everyone that knew Doc or knew of him had total respect for him. I met Steve in 1993 on my first trip to Japan. He and Terry Gordy took care of me in and out of the ring and I believe its safe to say that Doctor Deaths regular daily routine inspired all of us. Hed work his ass off in the ring with incredible matches, party all night and still be the first at the gym, sweating puddles on the cardio equipment without a single complaint. He was the standard setter, whether he meant to be or not."
Recap of Hulk Hogan/TNA party: Hall, Russo appear Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/03/2010 at 08:17 PM
Gary Cantrel of The Shoot radio show (BlogTalkRadio.com/TheShoot) passed along the following recap of Hulk Hogan's party at Margaritaville in Orlando.
The event did start promptly at five. There was quite a line to go into the Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville resturant. The event was being held on the 2nd floor which filled up real quick. They were letting only a number of people up at a time. I just happened to be at the front of the line at one point when they filled up so I was outside for quite a while. There were two camera crews filming the entire event. The Spike TV/TNA crew and the Bubba the Love Sponge radio show crew who film material for his website and DVDs.
Several people showed up and greeted fans waiting outside. First up was Eric Bischoff, who had his own personal camera man. It wasn't a large camera so it could be footage for his own personal website. He was definitely very polite to everyone while in front of the camera. He went through pretty much the whole line and took photos with people.
Next up was Scott Hall, who came over with someone, was probably a manager or friend or something. He too was taking pictures with the fans outside.
Vince Russo also checked out the line. He seemed very polite and talked with some of the fans.
The Spike TV/TNA crew came back to the front this time with Bubba the Love Sponge. He is doing the interviews. They first filmed Hogan coming outside with Bischoff and Scott Hall. Bubba did several interviews with fans.
Later on after we got inside of the building, they had a ton more lights and Jeremy Borash was inside with cameras pumping the crowd up. They did several shots with fans chanting various things such as "TNA" and "Hogan." They had Bubba interviewing more fans. After they recorded the footage and some additional B-Roll they thanked the fans for coming out.
Update on WWE/TNA stars hanging out Posted by Chris Kaufman on 01/01/2010 at 12:50 PM
Credit: FWOnline.com
As we reported a few weeks ago, several WWE and TNA superstars socialized together after the 12/20 date in Orlando, where TNA did a PPV show and WWE taped SmackDown. Some WWE superstars were hesitant on doing it out of fear of reprecussions, so the TNA people, including Dixie Carter, went to the hotel they were at.
WWE Divas champion Melina, who injured her knee earlier this week during a match at a Tuesday night house show, has been pulled off RAW house show lineups through February. Her injury is believed to be a torn ACL.
WWE Raw superstar Ted DiBiase spoke to Eric Cohen of About.com this week to promote the release of his new WWE Studios DVD, The Marine 2. To read a full interview with DiBiase, visit About.com.
During the interview, DiBiase told a story from his childhood when he brought his father's Million Dollar title info school one day for show and tell.
"One time in fourth grade we had show and tell," DiBiase recalled. "I stole my dad's briefcase and I took it to show and tell. Everybody else is walking in with their backpacks and sack lunches pulling out these dolls and stuff. I've got this briefcase and everybody was like what is that.
"I was just saying it was a briefcase. When it came my turn, I put the briefcase up on the table, punched in the code, opened the briefcase, and there it is in all of its glory, the Million Dollar Belt. So I stole the Million Dollar Belt and took it to show and tell. So yeah, I was the most popular kid in class for a time after that."
Vince Russo posts message about Monday's Impact Posted by Mark Virginia on 01/02/2010 at 05:33 PM
Vince Russo has launched a Facebook page and here is what he wrote:
"Thanks for joining me here on my page. I look forward to interacting with you all. Gearing up for live show on Monday--been working around the clock. I hope you all tune in so we can give the other Vince a run for his money. There are many surprises on the show . . . MANY surprises!"
Ik ben Boon Kenneth, en gebruik soms ook wel de schuilnaam Sting.
Ik ben een man en woon in Dworp (Belgie) en mijn beroep is .
Ik ben geboren op 05/06/1989 en ben nu dus 36 jaar jong.
Mijn hobby's zijn: Worstelen en films.
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