Before I touch on RAW, I need somebody to answer this for me... How has Cena finally embraced the hate? All he did was kiss Eve. It's not like he did it on purpose. Wasn't this whole thing supposed to change Cena in some way? He pretty much came out and said he's the same guy and he won't change. Unless this was Kane'a plan all along? Or maybe when Cena was almost about to strike Ryder? Either way, they set up one interesting match for Sunday that can end in so many different ways.
Now, Im gonna make this short and sweet since RAW was just two days ago.
HHH and HBK stole the show with that great promo. That's how two legends get it done, and this makes this angle so much more interesting than last year's Mania match.
The Debate at the beginning was pretty solid. Truth's promo was the weirdest and funniest thing I've heard that night. I need that little jimmy shirt tho.. Kofi got some Mic time and stated his position which was cool and even got a chant cause we don't hear from him much. Jericho and Punk continue to heat up and this EC match has great build.
Out of all the matches, I think Punk and MIz was well done, but I like Kofi and Jericho's match. Solid match, even though it was short.
I like the Tamina/Beth Phoenix match this Sunday for the Diva's title. It's gonna be a great match without question.
The ending was ehh. I mean I liked that moment when Cena was about to attack Ryder. Maybe Im starting to get what Kane was trying to do.
Best RAW since post Royal Rumble and another solid ppv build. This Sunday is really lookin like a good one.
Now, Im gonna make this short and sweet since RAW was just two days ago.
HHH and HBK stole the show with that great promo. That's how two legends get it done, and this makes this angle so much more interesting than last year's Mania match.
The Debate at the beginning was pretty solid. Truth's promo was the weirdest and funniest thing I've heard that night. I need that little jimmy shirt tho.. Kofi got some Mic time and stated his position which was cool and even got a chant cause we don't hear from him much. Jericho and Punk continue to heat up and this EC match has great build.
Out of all the matches, I think Punk and MIz was well done, but I like Kofi and Jericho's match. Solid match, even though it was short.
I like the Tamina/Beth Phoenix match this Sunday for the Diva's title. It's gonna be a great match without question.
The ending was ehh. I mean I liked that moment when Cena was about to attack Ryder. Maybe Im starting to get what Kane was trying to do.
Best RAW since post Royal Rumble and another solid ppv build. This Sunday is really lookin like a good one.
Mustang Sally
Sells seashells by the seashore
It's not supposed to change Cena; it's supposed to change the audience's perception of Cena. They're using Zack Ryder and Eve to do this, with Kane as the catalyst. Obviously, Cena isn't doing wrong, yet circumstances are making it seem as if he is.
It wasn't his fault that Zack got injured three times by Kane, yet Cena's proximity to the events are geared to make us think he might have helped prevent it. Then, to make matters worse, we're supposed to be thinking that Cena is trying to steal Zack's girl, although he isn't. She threw herself (literally) at him, but all Zack saw was Cena kissing the woman he's in love with. Does Zack blame Eve? Hell, no! She's the one at fault but Zack won't see it that way.
It's a time-honored tradition with guys, right? If you go after your buddy's girl, you're shit forever.
Then, Cena comes out to the ring and gets tons of heat from the audience. The fans are supposed to know better if they've been following recent events, but with the way things have been running for Cena in the last months, they're happy to blame him for what isn't his fault.
One of two things will happen: Cena will make the biggest face turn in years, or he'll come down on the side of justice and honor at the last minute. It's anyone's guess at this point.
It's not supposed to change Cena; it's supposed to change the audience's perception of Cena. They're using Zack Ryder and Eve to do this, with Kane as the catalyst. Obviously, Cena isn't doing wrong, yet circumstances are making it seem as if he is.
It wasn't his fault that Zack got injured three times by Kane, yet Cena's proximity to the events are geared to make us think he might have helped prevent it. Then, to make matters worse, we're supposed to be thinking that Cena is trying to steal Zack's girl, although he isn't. She threw herself (literally) at him, but all Zack saw was Cena kissing the woman he's in love with. Does Zack blame Eve? Hell, no! She's the one at fault but Zack won't see it that way.
It's a time-honored tradition with guys, right? If you go after your buddy's girl, you're shit forever.
Then, Cena comes out to the ring and gets tons of heat from the audience. The fans are supposed to know better if they've been following recent events, but with the way things have been running for Cena in the last months, they're happy to blame him for what isn't his fault.
One of two things will happen: Cena will make the biggest face turn in years, or he'll come down on the side of justice and honor at the last minute. It's anyone's guess at this point.
yea something like that. I've actually been through this, but that's for another thread, so let me get back on topic haha.But now that you explain it, I feel what Cena's promo was about. Kane's job was to make the fans Hate Cena even more and to make Cena Embrace the Hate and his promo said just that. Cena was made to lose his nerve because of the booing and Kane's job to make Cena look past the fans, right?
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
Kinda lackuster Raw. I rarely say that, because I usually understand where the WWE is going with everything. A very "filler" go home show.
The debate was fun at times but dragged on at others, Punk's reactions were funny. Truth was awesome as usual.
Most of the matches were solid. I usually don't complain about botches. However, the Show botch was a bad one. It's not like Orton slipped, which is understandable, it's not like Orton couldn't lift Show for something, which is understandable, it was a mis-timing, which is weird with those 2 pros, and it made the match look "fake". Kinda like being able to see the strings holding up superman or something.
The end of the show finished strong though. I LOVE what they're doing with Cena. As stated above, all this stuff isn't going to change Cena necessarily, but throw a wrinkle into his character and everyone's perception of his character before Mania.
Not a godawful show, but not as spectacular as the last few weeks.
The debate was fun at times but dragged on at others, Punk's reactions were funny. Truth was awesome as usual.
Most of the matches were solid. I usually don't complain about botches. However, the Show botch was a bad one. It's not like Orton slipped, which is understandable, it's not like Orton couldn't lift Show for something, which is understandable, it was a mis-timing, which is weird with those 2 pros, and it made the match look "fake". Kinda like being able to see the strings holding up superman or something.
The end of the show finished strong though. I LOVE what they're doing with Cena. As stated above, all this stuff isn't going to change Cena necessarily, but throw a wrinkle into his character and everyone's perception of his character before Mania.
Not a godawful show, but not as spectacular as the last few weeks.
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
keeps logging me out so I can't edit, so I'm posting again.
I honestly didn't like HHH and HBK. Went on too long, HBK seems like he's coked out again, so that's awesome. Just not feeling the HHH vs Undertaker bullshit again. Undertaker's video thing is corny. HBK looks like he just got done being a roady on a Motley Crue reunion tour. HHH was the only decent one in the group. The story is just to contrived and predictable. It'd be awesome if it turned out it WASN'T HHH vs Undertaker. I'm thinking from a selfish perspective though, HHH vs Taker just doesn't do anything for me.
I'm glad a lot of you enjoyed the show. Maybe it was my head cold, iunno. Just didn't feel most of it except the Ryder/Kane/Cena stuff. Lol at the guy who only posted a "lol cena is a bad actor" on here. Could do a whole thread on bad acting on wrestling shows or bad acting from wrestlers in movies, like pretty much all of Dwayne's "acting". Way to be a hater, you're so cool.
I honestly didn't like HHH and HBK. Went on too long, HBK seems like he's coked out again, so that's awesome. Just not feeling the HHH vs Undertaker bullshit again. Undertaker's video thing is corny. HBK looks like he just got done being a roady on a Motley Crue reunion tour. HHH was the only decent one in the group. The story is just to contrived and predictable. It'd be awesome if it turned out it WASN'T HHH vs Undertaker. I'm thinking from a selfish perspective though, HHH vs Taker just doesn't do anything for me.
I'm glad a lot of you enjoyed the show. Maybe it was my head cold, iunno. Just didn't feel most of it except the Ryder/Kane/Cena stuff. Lol at the guy who only posted a "lol cena is a bad actor" on here. Could do a whole thread on bad acting on wrestling shows or bad acting from wrestlers in movies, like pretty much all of Dwayne's "acting". Way to be a hater, you're so cool.
Last night's Smackdown was very average indeed. The show started off with a very lacklustre match that shouldn't even be opening a backyard wrestling show, let alone Smackdown. I really have no idea why they fel the need to job the fuck out of Rhodes and Barrett. Both have fallen hugely since December or so, and don't look like the rising stars they once were. They need some direction going into Wrestlemania but, I fear both may be stuck in the Money in the Bank match, especially with no Goldust sightings as of late and Orton moving on to better things.
I enjoyed both the Dibiase vs. Hunico and the Usos vs. Epimo matches but, yet again, all of these men need more direction and storylines. The Ted vs. Hunico feud has been okay to get them both on television but, they both need to get a proper feud going. Don't even get me started on the miss-use of the Usos.
After the aforementioned matches, out comes Daniel Bryan to give us the promo of his life. There was no stupid ''I'm a vegan'' shtick, the promo was just a straight up heel promo. That's it, he's fully solidified himself as a heel, and if he continues like this, I'm going to be a happy man. Despite being a huge Bryan mark, his reign hasn't impressed me as of yet, but last night was a turning point. He can do it, he can become a big player and that promo is evidence of this. All that's left is a 5 star match, ROH style, to make me really be proud of the American Dragon.
The Sheamus-Daniel Bryan match was obviously short. It's a PPV main-event calibre match in WWEs eyes, so not giving much away makes sense. I did love Daniel Bryan getting the dirty win. He can pull the gimmick off, I'm sure of it.
Zeke vs. Mahal and Natalya-Phoenix/Tamina-Fox were uh... great matches. Right? Anyone?! Seriously, what are the WWE doing to poor ol' Natalya. That ending has to be one of the worst endings to a divas match in quite a while... and that's saying something.
Now, to the main event, well the Battle Royale was... a Battle Royale. It stuck to the generic formula of every other over the top rope match. I did enjoy he Primo-Gabriel exchange and Santino, throughout the whole match, was absolute gold. And, unlike most wrestling fans, I'm totally pumped for Santino. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Santino is severely underlooked. He has the ability to put on quality matches and he is just flat-out entertaining, heel or face. I wouldn't mind him getting a World title match, at all, in fact, I'd aplaud the decision. He's never going to win the Elimination Chamber, but he'll probably get to the last two with Bryan. Think about it, Bryan beating the crowd favourite, the ultimate underdog and the Milan miracle when he's so close to achieving his dream is the best way to get heat.
All in all, Smackdown was extremely average. I enjoyed Santino winning like a little child but, I feel like Orton getting injured broke the whole flow of Smackdown. The Smackdown Elimination Chamber feels a little lacking in story compared to the RAW one. There's no real heat between th challengers and I think that would've been different if the writers weren't rushing to try and find Orton's replacement. There were no outstanding matches, and that's not like Smackdown. I'll award this edition with an uncharacteristically low 6.5/10, just because I've come to expect so much more from Friday nights.
I enjoyed both the Dibiase vs. Hunico and the Usos vs. Epimo matches but, yet again, all of these men need more direction and storylines. The Ted vs. Hunico feud has been okay to get them both on television but, they both need to get a proper feud going. Don't even get me started on the miss-use of the Usos.
After the aforementioned matches, out comes Daniel Bryan to give us the promo of his life. There was no stupid ''I'm a vegan'' shtick, the promo was just a straight up heel promo. That's it, he's fully solidified himself as a heel, and if he continues like this, I'm going to be a happy man. Despite being a huge Bryan mark, his reign hasn't impressed me as of yet, but last night was a turning point. He can do it, he can become a big player and that promo is evidence of this. All that's left is a 5 star match, ROH style, to make me really be proud of the American Dragon.
The Sheamus-Daniel Bryan match was obviously short. It's a PPV main-event calibre match in WWEs eyes, so not giving much away makes sense. I did love Daniel Bryan getting the dirty win. He can pull the gimmick off, I'm sure of it.
Zeke vs. Mahal and Natalya-Phoenix/Tamina-Fox were uh... great matches. Right? Anyone?! Seriously, what are the WWE doing to poor ol' Natalya. That ending has to be one of the worst endings to a divas match in quite a while... and that's saying something.
Now, to the main event, well the Battle Royale was... a Battle Royale. It stuck to the generic formula of every other over the top rope match. I did enjoy he Primo-Gabriel exchange and Santino, throughout the whole match, was absolute gold. And, unlike most wrestling fans, I'm totally pumped for Santino. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Santino is severely underlooked. He has the ability to put on quality matches and he is just flat-out entertaining, heel or face. I wouldn't mind him getting a World title match, at all, in fact, I'd aplaud the decision. He's never going to win the Elimination Chamber, but he'll probably get to the last two with Bryan. Think about it, Bryan beating the crowd favourite, the ultimate underdog and the Milan miracle when he's so close to achieving his dream is the best way to get heat.
All in all, Smackdown was extremely average. I enjoyed Santino winning like a little child but, I feel like Orton getting injured broke the whole flow of Smackdown. The Smackdown Elimination Chamber feels a little lacking in story compared to the RAW one. There's no real heat between th challengers and I think that would've been different if the writers weren't rushing to try and find Orton's replacement. There were no outstanding matches, and that's not like Smackdown. I'll award this edition with an uncharacteristically low 6.5/10, just because I've come to expect so much more from Friday nights.
Jack-Hammer
YOU WILL RESPECT MY AUTHORITAH!!!!
Overall, I enjoyed the show last night. They changed up the opening segment formula a little, which is good to do now and again.
The highlights of the night were Bryan's promo, his match against Sheamus and the battle royal. Bryan's promo was straight heel and while I didn't mind the vegan stuff while he was doing it, I'm glad that they seem to be putting it on the backburner. Bryan came off as a more serious type of heel last night and that little bit of a cocky swagger is a nice touch. His match with Sheamus was good while it lasted and I like the fact that they're casting Bryan as an opportunistic heel that uses his head. He knew Sheamus has a short fuse, spitting on him set it off and he gets another win. I know that Bryan isn't some unstoppable shitkicker like some internet fans think all heels should be, but that's life.
I've no real problem with Santino taking Orton's spot in the Elimination Chamber. His comedy stuff aside, Santino is actually very solid inside the ring and he might have himself a breakout performance tomorrow night. I was a little surprised at the absolute massive pop he got for winning. I know he's been over for a long time and all, but the fans in attendence seemed legitimately happy to see him get the win. I liked how the announcers kept playing up the underdog aspect of some young gun getting the opportunity of a lifetime to take Orton's spot in the EC match. Drew McIntyre looked impressive during the battle royal. I wouldn't have minded him winning at all, but there was no way you could avoid finding out that Santino had won the match as it seemed that every other story or article on any wrestling site you went to was talking about it.
The highlights of the night were Bryan's promo, his match against Sheamus and the battle royal. Bryan's promo was straight heel and while I didn't mind the vegan stuff while he was doing it, I'm glad that they seem to be putting it on the backburner. Bryan came off as a more serious type of heel last night and that little bit of a cocky swagger is a nice touch. His match with Sheamus was good while it lasted and I like the fact that they're casting Bryan as an opportunistic heel that uses his head. He knew Sheamus has a short fuse, spitting on him set it off and he gets another win. I know that Bryan isn't some unstoppable shitkicker like some internet fans think all heels should be, but that's life.
I've no real problem with Santino taking Orton's spot in the Elimination Chamber. His comedy stuff aside, Santino is actually very solid inside the ring and he might have himself a breakout performance tomorrow night. I was a little surprised at the absolute massive pop he got for winning. I know he's been over for a long time and all, but the fans in attendence seemed legitimately happy to see him get the win. I liked how the announcers kept playing up the underdog aspect of some young gun getting the opportunity of a lifetime to take Orton's spot in the EC match. Drew McIntyre looked impressive during the battle royal. I wouldn't have minded him winning at all, but there was no way you could avoid finding out that Santino had won the match as it seemed that every other story or article on any wrestling site you went to was talking about it.
Alright, so I caught up on SmackDown on Youtube, and I won't touch on the whole show, but a few parts.
This show actually did a pretty damn good job hyping up the Chamber ppv. By that, I mean they built up almost everybody's story.
Big Show showed his crazy side by knocking out Khali, Mark Henry, and then tearing apart Teddy's office.
Daniel Bryan cut a great promo. He really seems to be coming into this own with this character. And his match with Sheamus was short, but it furthered his heel persona heading into Sunday. There's gonna be no lucky way out of the Chamber. I don't think Bryan has even pinned anybody for a win since he won the title. At least I don't think so.
As for Sheamus, if you don't know what Championship he's challenging for now, you do now. If Bryan retains, Sheamus is definitely going to be waiting after getting spat in his face.
There was also a little exchange with Barrett, Long, and Rhodes which was pretty cool.
Now....the Main Event. I didn't really care that much about Santino, but the minute he put the Cobra on, the Fans were behind him. I mean, if you only heard the POP when he won the Battle Royal. I knew Santino was over, but DANG! The fans went absolutely nuts for him. Now that I rewatched the Battle Royal, I understand Santino. He's the ultimate underdog. That was HIS moment and he soaked it in and the fans were cheering him every step of the way. The way they ended the show really made you believe that Santino could very well walk out of the Chamber as the Champion. Once again, very well done WWE. I was skeptical at first, but now that I had a chance to rewatch it, it seems like a good idea.
This show actually did a pretty damn good job hyping up the Chamber ppv. By that, I mean they built up almost everybody's story.
Big Show showed his crazy side by knocking out Khali, Mark Henry, and then tearing apart Teddy's office.
Daniel Bryan cut a great promo. He really seems to be coming into this own with this character. And his match with Sheamus was short, but it furthered his heel persona heading into Sunday. There's gonna be no lucky way out of the Chamber. I don't think Bryan has even pinned anybody for a win since he won the title. At least I don't think so.
As for Sheamus, if you don't know what Championship he's challenging for now, you do now. If Bryan retains, Sheamus is definitely going to be waiting after getting spat in his face.
There was also a little exchange with Barrett, Long, and Rhodes which was pretty cool.
Now....the Main Event. I didn't really care that much about Santino, but the minute he put the Cobra on, the Fans were behind him. I mean, if you only heard the POP when he won the Battle Royal. I knew Santino was over, but DANG! The fans went absolutely nuts for him. Now that I rewatched the Battle Royal, I understand Santino. He's the ultimate underdog. That was HIS moment and he soaked it in and the fans were cheering him every step of the way. The way they ended the show really made you believe that Santino could very well walk out of the Chamber as the Champion. Once again, very well done WWE. I was skeptical at first, but now that I had a chance to rewatch it, it seems like a good idea.
I liked the opening. With the WWE actually using Orton it does make you wonder if the concussion is a work. Starting off with a match is fine by me.
-Big Show is becoming more aggressive. I didn't like that Cody and Wade lost again. It made them look a little weak going into the chamber.
-Daniel Bryan cut a good heel promo. He didn't go into a long boring rant about being a vegan. He kept on point and did a good job of drawing heat from the crowd.
-Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus was solid. It does looks like they are setting up a triple threat title match at WM. Bryan spit and slapped Sheamus and Orton will want revenge. You got two dominant babyfaces going after an opportunistic/cowardly heel. It could be interesting to see how it plays out.
-Uso's vs Epico/Primo and Ted/Hunico were solid matches, but I do wish they would do a little more to have fans actual care about these matches.
-The jobber battle royal. Fans really got into Santino at the end. I dont have a problem with him replacing Orton. The announcers did a good job playing up the underdog/Jeremy Lin type of role. Drew was the other guy that stood out from the battle royal.
-Big Show is becoming more aggressive. I didn't like that Cody and Wade lost again. It made them look a little weak going into the chamber.
-Daniel Bryan cut a good heel promo. He didn't go into a long boring rant about being a vegan. He kept on point and did a good job of drawing heat from the crowd.
-Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus was solid. It does looks like they are setting up a triple threat title match at WM. Bryan spit and slapped Sheamus and Orton will want revenge. You got two dominant babyfaces going after an opportunistic/cowardly heel. It could be interesting to see how it plays out.
-Uso's vs Epico/Primo and Ted/Hunico were solid matches, but I do wish they would do a little more to have fans actual care about these matches.
-The jobber battle royal. Fans really got into Santino at the end. I dont have a problem with him replacing Orton. The announcers did a good job playing up the underdog/Jeremy Lin type of role. Drew was the other guy that stood out from the battle royal.
This was one of if not the best Raws since the summer. The Cena promo was fantastic. I am now on Cena's side going into WM. I don't like Dwayne, i didn't like Cena. But now Cena is converting me to the Cenation. If he can keep this edge i may put him in my fave five dog.
The HHH/Taker took a swerve. Loving the HiaC plans. At first i was thinking "again, boring" But now im interested again.
The battle royal was great. The Wade Barret spot looked bad. It seems this one was real. Show stared for a second like "whoops." Its not technically his fault, they could land anyway. Barret yelling "F*ck" 5 or 6 times was a seller for me. This is a legit injury. They even Bleeped out the sound for a second while Barret was yelling. He seemed pissed. Ziggler should be fine.
The ending was okay. Im ready for the Mic battles though.
The HHH/Taker took a swerve. Loving the HiaC plans. At first i was thinking "again, boring" But now im interested again.
The battle royal was great. The Wade Barret spot looked bad. It seems this one was real. Show stared for a second like "whoops." Its not technically his fault, they could land anyway. Barret yelling "F*ck" 5 or 6 times was a seller for me. This is a legit injury. They even Bleeped out the sound for a second while Barret was yelling. He seemed pissed. Ziggler should be fine.
The ending was okay. Im ready for the Mic battles though.
Raw Hits and Misses: 2/20/2012
Raw Hits:
Raw Hits:
John Cena: This may have been my favorite John Cena promo ever. Nothing felt forced her and even the comedy bits fit in perfectly with this promo. We've heard this from Cena before regarding Rock "leaving", but never with so much conviction and such a natural flow to it. Cena's line about doing it for all the "Boys in The Back." The way Cena played this off was done so in a way to give Rock no real opportunity to be cute or funny here, but to address Cena in return in a serious manner. This feud has an entirely new feel to it, and it's due to the outstanding mic work of John Cena.
HHH and The Undertaker: This started a little shaky on Undertaker's part, but wound up being fantastically executed. I believed that Undertaker would threaten to end his career if HHH didn't take the match, but I like the route he took to get there better. He tried the coward route and the "businessman" route, and it got HHH close, but the end where he told HHH that it was simply because HBK was better then him was perfect. HHH showed great intensity in his vow to end the Undertaker, and I find myself incredibly invested in this match. Hell In A Cell is the perfect stipulation here, and I'd suggest blood is almost needed in the "War to end All Wars." Just excellent stuff here.
Sheamus vs Mark Henry: Henry looked like he was close to 100%, but it baffles me why he's "unfit" to wrestle Sunday, but is capable of doing so Sunday. He's obviously not going to be a big-time player come Wrestlemania, so he didn't need to have done much inside the Chamber, or stay long. This was a nice, short match that gives Sheamus that big win over Henry after the two traded countout wins last summer. Sheamus continues to look unbeatable as he heads into Wrestlemania. *1/2.
Kofi and R-Truth vs Primo and Epico: Another dart-board tag team from WWE, but this could work. What we got was a three minute match of strong action, so I'd like to see them get 15 in the future. The win for Kofi and Truth was important as they headed into the battle Royal, and also if they want to establish them as contenders in the future. The downside is the champs lost to a newly formed team, quickly, and to two men selling injuries from the Chamber last night as well. But this was well-wrestled, and I'd like to see more of these pairs, given more time. *
Punk on commentary: He added so much insight to the broadcast that is simply missing with just Lawler and Cole. Example of this is him mentioning Rhodes being in the ring against former tag team champions together in the Big Show and Jericho.He added alot to the Battle Royal and gave it the importance feel it needed in setting up a main event match at Wrestlemania. He balanced the perfect amount of dry humor and attention to detail that is so lacking in WWE right now.
10 Man Battle Royal: A minor hit. This was very sloppy at times, and it showed as the legitimate injuries piled up. Barrett appears to have a serious arm injury, and Ziggler's fall into the announce table was a scary one as well. Noone was to blame, but it typified exactly what made the Royal so sloppy. Several spots were nice, such as Ziggler's great dropkick and the CrossRhodes to Ziggler, and it was nice to see Jericho get several eliminations in the match. Still, I felt he needed an emphatic victory heading into his feud with Punk, and he's yet to get that since he's returned. The Battle Royal with the Elimination Chamber participants was solid in concept, but average in execution. On the plus side, it seems they set up two feuds within this match, with Rhodes essentially eliminating Show for Jericho. But this match wasn't very good. although giving it the main event slot was nice focus for Wrestlemania. **3/4
Raw Misses:
Daniel Bryan vs Santino Marella: Was noone else available? With Santino coming off perhaps the biggest moment of his career last night, it made no sense to job him out to Bryan in less then a minute. Where's Alex Riley when you need him? Just too short to mean anything at all, and not enough emphasis on Bryan as the World Champion, or his feud with Sheamus. 1/4*
Ezekiel Jackson vs David Otunga: Could they make it more obvious Otunga was winning this match? The only match worse then a sloppy match is a boring, predictable one, and this was both. I'm not buying into the Laurinitis/Long feud either, but I imagine we'll see some kind of match at Wrestlemania to determine the GM of both shows. Right now, they're off to a bad start. 1/4*
Kelly Kelly and Aksana vs The Bella Twins: The rest of the show felt like we were in Wrestlemania mode, and then they throw this on the card? Where's Beth Phoenix to brag about having beaten anyone? Where's Kharma to challenge that? This match was so random, and a complete and utter dud. All four of these women couldn't possibly mean less, and that's a shame.
Eve: I appreciate the effort here, but this failed on several occasions. They seemingly finished up the Eve/Ryder/Cena deal in one segment, and Eve's acting was absolutely horrendous as she cried and begged for Cena's forgiveness. Cena's put-downs reminded me of the way he used to talk to Lita, so that was a nice touch, but having Cena find out right away following Eve revealing her plan ruined what could have been a decent side story for Cena.
Final Thoughts:
This was an excellent show. Cena and Rock took quite the serious turn tonight, and they couldn't have done a better job with HHH and Undetaker if they tried. Hell In A Cell is the perfect match here between the two. The Battle Royal established its purpose, setting up Jericho vs Punk for Wrestlemania. They were in full Wrestlemania build tonight, especially for the two big non-title matches. Both title matches need some serious heat, but Im confident they'll get there when it's all said and done. This show clicked for me from start to finish, and Id avoid having Cena wrestle again until Wrestlemania in order to make this match feel truly special. If he keeps cutting promos like he did tonight, he doesn't need to wrestle. A very good show that has me excited for the live Smackdown tomorrow. B+
RAW had it's great moments and shockingly bad moments in the same show tonight.
First the great moments:
John Cena!!! Yes I said it. He was the star of the show for the first time in a long time in my view. He finally showed conviction that didn't seem forced and hooky and showed a different side with the 'hoeski' comment against eve. This is more of the John Cena I was hoping for as opposed to the lackadaisical acting and mic work he has had in the last while. Well done John keep it up!
10 man battle royal: I always enjoy a good Battle Royal and this one was no different. Even though I was sure Jericho would win the match it was a good effort put on by most contestants. Unfortunately for Wade it looks like he does have a legitimate arm injury and I wish him a speedy recovery.
HHH vs. Undertaker build up: I thought this was really well done. I figured if this match was to take place that they'd need a gimmick match to make it mean something. They both have great history with Hell In A Cell so I find myself actually looking forward to the match now.
The WORST of RAW:
Natalya and her 'farting' gimmick: This isn't even funny and I want this garbage off my tv ASAP. It's one thing if she's actually in the dog house for some reason but they shouldn't subject the WWE Universe with this idiocy. If the WWE wants the diva's division to be credible then give them time in actual wrestling matches.
Daniel Bryan vs. Santino: Why in the hell would they bury Santino in a one minute squash match after the performance he put on last night? I can understand Bryan winning but Santino looked like he went from a legitimate threat at EC to being a total jobber the next. Horribly booked match.
Tag team Diva's match: I only watched it because I didn't have to go to the bathroom. Aksana looks so horribly lost in the ring that she makes Kelly Kelly and the Bella Twins look like first ballot hall of famers.
The other parts of the show were ok. I really like CM Punk on commentary as well and would like to see him in that role after his wrestling career is over. He's as natural as they come on the mic and is more insightful than the rest of any commentary crew combined.
First the great moments:
John Cena!!! Yes I said it. He was the star of the show for the first time in a long time in my view. He finally showed conviction that didn't seem forced and hooky and showed a different side with the 'hoeski' comment against eve. This is more of the John Cena I was hoping for as opposed to the lackadaisical acting and mic work he has had in the last while. Well done John keep it up!
10 man battle royal: I always enjoy a good Battle Royal and this one was no different. Even though I was sure Jericho would win the match it was a good effort put on by most contestants. Unfortunately for Wade it looks like he does have a legitimate arm injury and I wish him a speedy recovery.
HHH vs. Undertaker build up: I thought this was really well done. I figured if this match was to take place that they'd need a gimmick match to make it mean something. They both have great history with Hell In A Cell so I find myself actually looking forward to the match now.
The WORST of RAW:
Natalya and her 'farting' gimmick: This isn't even funny and I want this garbage off my tv ASAP. It's one thing if she's actually in the dog house for some reason but they shouldn't subject the WWE Universe with this idiocy. If the WWE wants the diva's division to be credible then give them time in actual wrestling matches.
Daniel Bryan vs. Santino: Why in the hell would they bury Santino in a one minute squash match after the performance he put on last night? I can understand Bryan winning but Santino looked like he went from a legitimate threat at EC to being a total jobber the next. Horribly booked match.
Tag team Diva's match: I only watched it because I didn't have to go to the bathroom. Aksana looks so horribly lost in the ring that she makes Kelly Kelly and the Bella Twins look like first ballot hall of famers.
The other parts of the show were ok. I really like CM Punk on commentary as well and would like to see him in that role after his wrestling career is over. He's as natural as they come on the mic and is more insightful than the rest of any commentary crew combined.
I Heart Cena
Pre-Show Stalwart
Taker/HHH was decent. The Apocalypse of the Attitude Era.
Battle Royal was ok. Too bad for the injuries.
Cena's promo set him up for the Rock to destroy him on the mic next week. Because cena's loyalty is by default, not by choice. Cena would do the exact same thing the Rock did if cena had the talent to attract better movie offers.
If Vince gives Rock freedom next week, it will get good. It will be interesting either way. Thank God for Mania season.
Battle Royal was ok. Too bad for the injuries.
Cena's promo set him up for the Rock to destroy him on the mic next week. Because cena's loyalty is by default, not by choice. Cena would do the exact same thing the Rock did if cena had the talent to attract better movie offers.
If Vince gives Rock freedom next week, it will get good. It will be interesting either way. Thank God for Mania season.
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
Is this a troll? Your Cena hatred is hilarious. You DO realize that in like 2008, FOUR YEARS AGO, Bryan Alvarez, head smark himself said "if you don't think Cena has talent, you lose credibility".
Personally, I don't think Cena would do the same thing as Rock. Rock didn't always want to be a wrestler. I read Rock's book, he REALLY wanted to be a football player. That didn't work, then he was a wrestler, for about 6 years, then a part time wrestler for about 3 more, then he dropped his ring name. Rock may have been born into the business, but I don't buy that Rock loves it. Rock comes across as contrived and fake in every interview. I believe Cena when he says he loves the business. I don't believe it when Rock says it. Rock loves being the center of attention. Whatever vehicle that may be is up to him. Cena loves the attention but he specifically loves wrestling.
Road to wrestlemania is going to be amazing. HHH/Taker in a Cell actually makes the match interesting again.
I Heart Cena
Pre-Show Stalwart
Well, it is your opinion that he wouldn't do the same thing. But I think he would. If he truly would prefer being a WWE star instead of a movie star, then why did he attempt to become a movie star in the 1st place? He failed miserably. What if The Marine was a huge success? Then he was offered lucrative role after lucrative role. You honestly think he'd've stayed in WWE? I HIGHLY doubt that.
But neither of us can read cena's mind, so you're entitled to your opinion.
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
WWE studios have made all of John's movies. John is a wrestler first, movie star (for the business) second. That's the difference.
Rock doing movies is like cheating on your wife. He does it for himself.
Cena doing moves for WWE is like taking your wife's asshole brother out with you. He does it for the WWE (his "wife").
Basically what I'm saying is that you are REALLY reaching with your Cena hate and it's sad. Cena has shown nothing except loyalty and drive for pro wrestling. Cena slept in cars and shit on his way to being a pro wrestler. Rock was handed a career and was talented enough to run with it.
Just look at the facts and their paths to becoming a wrestler.
Rock basically is focused on football until he realizes he's not going to make it, goes into the family business, uses his connections to get a great job, once he becomes a huge star, he leaves.
Cena ONLY wants to be a wrestler. In his teens he starts lifting to get huge to be one, wrestles on the indies, wrestles in OVW, works his ass off, puts everyone into every gimmick they give him.
Maybe it's because I can relate to Cena more having wanted to be a pro wrestler my whole life and not really having any other aspirations (until I was told by doctors not to ever take another bump again). I just don't buy Rock as truly loving pro wrestling. I buy Cena's passion.
Even though Cena's promo sort of relates to our little convo, we're derailing this thread.
I Heart Cena
Pre-Show Stalwart
Rock doing movies isn't like him cheating on his wife. WWE isn't his wife.
I'm not reaching in hating Cena, he's done more than enough to be hated. There's nothing sad about hating a wrestler, this is all for fun. It's sad to accuse another of being sad for a matter as benign as pro wrestling.
I just don't buy Cena's argument at all. Most of his promo was foolish. He's looking forward to the 4/9 Raw when he'll be there while Rock is back in Hollywood? Lame. 99.9% of us would rather be in Hollywood, laughing at our stunt double, instead of risking our necks for half the pay.
His disrespect of the Rock is kayfabe, I'm sure the real Cena respects the Rock, obviously. And kayfabe-wise, cena's character continues to be hateable. His promo didn't change that, it worsened it in fact.
I'm sure Rock saying he was "home" was by design to set up Cena's accusation that Rock flat out lied because, obviously, WWE is not Rock's home. Which is good, because that will intensify their feud.
So in conclusion:the good part of cena's promo was calling Rock a liar for calling WWE home. The lame part was the 4/9 quip, and the "doing it for the guys in the back" quip. I just rolled my eyes at that.
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
I wouldn't. Then again, I LOVE pro wrestling. That's what I'm trying to say. I don't believe Rock truly loves pro wrestling. That's why I compare it to a wife. If you truly TRULY love it, you won't leave it.
Cena's character is only hateable to people who are easily worked. Pro wrestling is fun, but if you truly hate John Cena the person, I think that's kinda sad. He busts his ass and everything we can see about him points to him being a pretty awesome person.
The Undertaker/HHH segment was great tonight. When it came on I had to check the clock because I thought it was 8 and Raw just started. I'm sure something happened before that but I don't remember any of it. The Cena promo at the end was very solid. When given some rope he can cut a very realistic promo. Much better than the rise above and embrace the hate key word crap they've been shuffling about.
I'm hopeful that their feud will pick up in the next six weeks. I know it was 1 year in the making, but the build up so far is way beneath what talents like the rock and cena should, and could, put on.
HIAC with Taker and HHH sounds pretty good in theory. A better direction than a last man standing match. I'm much more interested in it after Raw tonight than I thought I ever would be. I still think they will spice it up and add retirement before it's over. I expect one of the best HIACs ever. I can see both guys putting it even more on the line to steal the show from Cena/Rock and Jericho/Punk.
Back to Cena/Rock and the "doing it for the guys in the back." They've built a lot of the storyline to that. Even with the Piper segment and his involvement with Mr. T 25-30 years ago. I don't think there's a chance of getting a 50/50 crowd in Miami but at least Cena is making it interesting.
They both need to kick it up a notch. Boots to asses and rise above hate will only go far enough to be overshadowed by HIAC.
I'm hopeful that their feud will pick up in the next six weeks. I know it was 1 year in the making, but the build up so far is way beneath what talents like the rock and cena should, and could, put on.
HIAC with Taker and HHH sounds pretty good in theory. A better direction than a last man standing match. I'm much more interested in it after Raw tonight than I thought I ever would be. I still think they will spice it up and add retirement before it's over. I expect one of the best HIACs ever. I can see both guys putting it even more on the line to steal the show from Cena/Rock and Jericho/Punk.
Back to Cena/Rock and the "doing it for the guys in the back." They've built a lot of the storyline to that. Even with the Piper segment and his involvement with Mr. T 25-30 years ago. I don't think there's a chance of getting a 50/50 crowd in Miami but at least Cena is making it interesting.
They both need to kick it up a notch. Boots to asses and rise above hate will only go far enough to be overshadowed by HIAC.
I Heart Cena
Pre-Show Stalwart
The Rock shouldn't be indicted for not truly loving the business.
Well, being "easily worked" is the point. We gotta suspend our disbelief to enjoy this stuff.
Everything we see about him doesn't point to him being an awesome person. He's a lameass.
TWJC: The Beginning
Royal Rumble Winner
Make a wish, being a great spokesperson for his company, and busting it in the ring makes him a lameass? I'd like to be that lame. This convo is done, PM me if you want to talk more, I don't want to derail this thread anymore.
I think he is pretty badly hurt. The way he screamed the F bomb a billion times. They brought out a stretcher, but he did walk out. He seemed more pissed then hurt though.
My thoughts on the show this week, Eve is a hoeski, more than a ho-ski, WWE even uses PG insult words, good lord.I said my Brother and Father, she can't wrestle, so they are doing anything for her to get interest from the Fans.I think Eve killed her career, but she seems Mickie James stalker-ish now, which will be ok for now, but she won't back it up in the Ring consistenly.The Undertaker promo on Triple H was a perfect spot to kill that days of our lives epic scene, as I was really looking forward to possibly seeing the buzz cut Taker.Kofi/Truth vs Primo/Epico was ok, match could of been longer, but I expect them to have great matches with these four men involved.Otunga beating Admed Johnson I mean big Zeke, was good for him, to show WWE he is here to make a statement and not just take funny pictures.The actually Taker vs Triple H seemed the same as last year, Taker saying he can't defeat him and he's afraid of him.I told my brother, hey Anthony Taker and Triple H will face each other in a wheel chair, when they are 80 years old.Taker will go for a chokeslam, and his arm will fall off.As for Triple H he will try to go for a suck it chop, and he breaks his hip,lol.I told you guys if Taker vs Triple H 3 would happen, it would be a HELL IN A CELL.Damn that match is going to be great, fire, tacks, both men going through the Cell.I have a feeling how that will end.Triple H and Taker go through the Cell, both men down on their back, and by mistaker Triple H has a Arm on the chest of Taker...one..two..three..Rip Taker.
Ok that Cena promo, interesting since I know it sounds like last year's promo he did on the Rock.Wait till next week Cena, your gotta get burned..Main Event Battle Royal, damn you Santino...SANTINO!!! That win by Jericho was lackluster as plus, thank God the story of these two will be bad ass! I saw Barrett cuss and I knew and said damn his arm is broken! Sad to hear that news, since he was rising in WWE and Smackdown.DId anyone see Jericho break character a little bit, leaving the Ring and asking the Ref on the outside, what happened to Wade.Also WHY THE FUCK DID THEY WAIT TO HELP WADE! Overall the show was 8 out of 10...
Ok that Cena promo, interesting since I know it sounds like last year's promo he did on the Rock.Wait till next week Cena, your gotta get burned..Main Event Battle Royal, damn you Santino...SANTINO!!! That win by Jericho was lackluster as plus, thank God the story of these two will be bad ass! I saw Barrett cuss and I knew and said damn his arm is broken! Sad to hear that news, since he was rising in WWE and Smackdown.DId anyone see Jericho break character a little bit, leaving the Ring and asking the Ref on the outside, what happened to Wade.Also WHY THE FUCK DID THEY WAIT TO HELP WADE! Overall the show was 8 out of 10...