Part 2 of my ECW was 1996's Natural Born Killaz. I didn't know what to expect going into this one as I'd never seen it before. The only pre-1998 show I'd seen was Hostile City Showdown 1996 (boy did that suck). Anyway, let's see what I thought.
Match 1 - Louie Spicolli vs Devon Storm
This was more or less a squash for Spicolli. At the start of the match he beat down Storm with a steal chair and focused completely on the leg. When the match started, he focused on the leg some more. Storm did a great job of selling the injury. The most noteworthy offense for Storm was a slingshot from the ropes which was reversed into a pin attempt. The comeback was brief however and Storm was eventually victim of the fireman's buster. After the match, Cactus Jack lookalike Damian Kane offered his managerial services, but he got a buster for his awful persuasion as well. The crowd went nuts for Louie and it suggested a new star was born.
Match 2 - European Jr Heavyweight Championship - Little Guido vs Mikey Whipwreck
This was not what I expected...
It started off as expected you know - mild brawling, fast paced wrestling and 1 or 2 top rope dives. But when the FBI got involved Mikey got nutty. Guido was on the outside of the ring being attended to by his manager JT Smith. Whipwreck does a vaulting body splash over the top rope and takes them both out. Big Guido then decides to get involved and tries to powerbomb Mikey. Mikey grabs the rope and kicks him over the guard rail. He climbs to the turnbuckle and jumps on Big Guido, who ducks and causes Mikey to totally botch the move and land on the concrete floor. Guido capitalises on the mistake and chokes Mikey with a chair and rolls him back into the ring. He locks in a short arm scissors and then performs a series of moves on Whipwreck's arm. Mikey connects with a kick and misses a splash. Mikey then kicks out of of a series of weak pin attempts. Pay attention to Style's commentary because some of it's funny. Like when Guido delivers a scoop slam and Styles calls it, ''A scoop ada slam.'' Mikey takes a beating for the majority of the match but he's resilient and eventually wins with an elbow drop and retains the gold.
Match 3 - Axl Rotten & D-Von Dudley vs Buh Buh Ray Dudley & Big Dick Dudley
D-Von starts off by insulting the crowd in the most insulting ways of imaginable. I mean, it's just uncalled for. It's hilarious though. Buh Buh runs out and goes straight for his brother. The story going into this match was that D-Von was being an abusive brother. He exemplifies his strained relationship with his ethnically opposing brother by running splashing him through a table. The match is just a brawl and it goes into the crowd. They assault each other with crutches and Buh Buh takes a 10 foot dive onto everyone. It's nuts considering who it is. This is nothing new in ECW. Every show had a nuts brawl and this was no different. So damn fun though.
Match 4 - Badstreet Match - Brian Lee vs Terry Gordy
Gordy is one of the best ever in my opinion. Sure, he's not THEE best but the Freebirds were awesome and I love him so fuck Bret Hart. Terry Gordy enters the ring to 'Freebird' by Skynyrd. I love Terry Gordy. This is another brawl and it goes outside of the arena. Back in the arena, Lee gets backdropped on a table tnat doesn't break, which makes it look even scrappier and more awesome. It's a slugfest. Gordy delivers a scrappy DDT and it's the closest thing we see to a wrestling move. Gordy wins the match via pinfall with a thumb to the throat.
Match 5 - Doug Furnas vs Rob Van Dam
Doug Furnas made his way from AJPW to face young, arrogant heel RVD. It's a speed vs power affair and Van Dam bumps like a psychopath - especially taking a shoulder block off the apron and landing in the third row This match also takes into the bleachers. That's 3 matches in a row where the crowd have been in touching distance of the wrestlers. Furnas manhandles Van Dam in the crowd. On the apron, RVD suplexes Furnas onto a table which doesn't break but it does look painful. RVD then puts a chair on Furnas' face and guillotine leg drops over the apron onto the chair. It looks COOOOOL. This match was physical and awesome. This was RVD at his best.
Match 6 - Taz vs Tommy Dreamer
Taz challenges Dreamer to a wrestling match and Dreamer agrees. There's a brief brawl at the start but once in the ring, it's time to wrestle. It starts of with some even mat work, but Taz gains control for the majority of the match. When there isn't brutal stomping it's a pretty good wrestling match, which is a nice welcome contrast from a show packed with insanity until now. Taz turns hypocrite though and throws Dreamer outside and beats him with a chair - now it's Dreamer's game. Oh wait... nah he gets pounded again for a bit. Then Dreamer dives on ''Team Taz.'' Taz puts Dreamer through a table with a Tazplex and puts the Tazmission on Dreamer. Some random interference, no officials and more interference ensure that this ends with all out chaos.
Match 7 - Tag Team Dog Collar Match - Raven & Shane Douglas vs Sandman & Pitbull #2
I don't know if there was ever a lengthy spell in ECW where Franchise wasn't despised. His heat in this match was hot. Sizzling even. I burnt myself watching and listening. This wasn't a wrestling match. It was carnage. It was barely even a fight. It was just a brutal beatdown of Sandman. The psychology was amazing, with Sandman's old lady and his son in Raven's corner. Pitbull #2 comes to Sandman's aid after Sandman is half dead to even the odds though and pretty much bitches the opponents for a long period. Aside from some big moves from Pitbull, this was kinda boring.
Match 8 - ECW World Tag Team Titles - Cage Match - The Gangstas vs The Eliminators
We're not 2 minutes in before Perry Saturn has dived from the cage so that's always a bonus. Like a lot of the show, it's just a blood brawl with forks in the equation. To be honest, it's not all that exciting and a pretty average match.
Overall Thoughts: I love ECW but watching 2 shows in the one night got a bit repetitive after a while. It is a lot of the same stuff most of the time. That being said, you'll always find a gem. When you're in the mood for it, ECW is perfect. When you're not, then it can get pretty annoying. Overall though, this was a decent show with a couple good matches.
Thursday, 24 May 2012
ECW Wrestlepalooza 1998
After reading about the disaster that was Extreme Reunion, it made me want to go back and relive the good ol' days of ECW. You know, the days where the wrestlers weren't washed up, drug addled beyond consciousness and unable to perform on the night (at least most of the time), and all round sucky. ECW is dead. People need to accept that. It was great back in the day but it's never going to be that way again with the old stars. Yet, people are always going to buy tickets when the old crew gets back together. Like many, I miss ECW. I miss WCW. I just miss that period. I love the nostalgia of it all though. Growing up during that period were the best days of my life. And sure, I'm always going to revisit the classics. But Franchise Shane Douglas, please stop what you're doing. If you're going to put on wrestling shows then bring in guys who can put on a great show. The indy scene is booming with talent willing to do ridiculous things. Give them a plug instead of bringing back yesteryears stars. Except Sandman... he can just drink and hit people with sticks. You never get too old for that.
Anyway, Shane Douglas shoddy productions aside... As I said, I decided to relive some ECW nostlagia and it led me to WRESTLEPALOOZA 98. Would it live up the magic I felt watching ECW as a 12 year old boy? Of course it fucking would. Inside I'm still a 12 year old boy 10 years later. I should also mention that you might not like this PPV. Lots of people hate it. I on the other hand really enjoy it. It's kinda like the TV show Friends. It's not spectacular but it's good to watch when you just want something entertaining that doesn't require much thought input.
Match 1 - FBI (Little Gudio & Tracey Smothers) vs Supernova & Blue Meanie
What do you expect from any match involving Blue Meanie? You know it's not going to be serious. That being said, when there isn't any dance offs or referees body slamming the FBI, it's a pretty good match to open a show. Supernova was the most exciting thing about this other than the referee. Oh yeah, and Meanies moonsault was pretty fat and epic too. This got the crowd pumped and excited therefore done its job as an opening match. Fun, harmless junkfood.
Match 2 - Justin Credible vs Mikey Whipwreck
I've never been a fan of Justin Credible, but given the right opponents he could have some pretty good matches. Mikey Whipwreck on the other hand was a good worker and a little underrated. This starts off as brawl, and Credible takes some pretty sweet bumps after being irish whipped. His first one out of the ring was unnecessary, but hey, it's fun. Mikey also takes a sweet fall from the apron into the ringside barrier. This sends the match Credible's way and he draws some good heat from the crowd. He slams Mikey's head into a chair and gets an arena sized BOOOO as a result. The crowd also chant what sounds like, ''You've Got Herpes.'' Pretty funny. You don't get chants like that now. We get some more brawling, a nice reverse DDT and a, ''JUST AN ASSHOLE'' chant. The best moment of the match was Mikey doing a suplex from the guard rail through a table on Credible. This match was a scrappy brawl with some nice bumps , chairs and tables. Not a great match by any means, but solid.
Match 3 - ECW Tag Team Championship - Lance Storm & Chris Candido vs Balls & Axl
Lance Storm and Candido are tag team champions who despise each other. They are also the second longest reigning tag team in ECW history, second only to Raven and Tommy Dreamer, who are another team who despised each other. Go figure. On paper this was an interesting concept, with a team consisting of technicians in a match against 2 overweight rock 'n' rollers who prided themselves on steel chair shots. The promo at the start off the match was more or less Axl telling everyone how they were going to smash their heads in with chairs. That being said, this match had some back and forth wrestling. Like Joey Styles said, Axl was a good wrestler. This was a good tag team match. I mean, Axl doing a slingshot senton over the rope was pretty cool. I've read a lot of criticism for this match, but it's undeserving. This was a good filler match and the crowd were pumped for it. The Ric Flair chants could perhaps be considered a little insulting though - or the biggest compliment ever. It's hard to tell with ECW fans. Decent match, not great, not bad.
- Joey Styles stands in the ring and introduces some legends from the business who had their success during the good ol' Mid-South days. Junkyard Dog, Dick Slater, The Masked Superstar and Bob Armstrong. The crowd gave everyone of them a huge ovation. Not much point in this segment other than appreciating the legends, but a nice homage.
- Shane Douglas comes out next and talks about wrestling, complains about Ric Flair etc and just have an all round complaining session. Taz comes out after and says some angry Taz things and demands the World title from Shane Douglas. Taz then chokes him out and security intervene.
Match 4 - Bam Bam Bigelow vs New Jack
This was one of the greatest hold for hold technical showcases of all time.... LOL. What can I say about this? They beat each other with fists and weapons and Dr. Dre and Ice Cube soundtrack the carnage. Plus, turns out the best way to beat Godzilla is Bam Bam's nuts and a hockey stick... who knew? I'll tell you who - New Jack. Wtf is wrong with New Jack?
Match 4 - The Dudley Boyz vs Tommy Dreamer & Sandman
Before the match we're treated to Joel Gertner quoting Young Money lyrics. You know the song, ''call me Mr. Flintstone, I can make your bed rock.'' But BOOM - Metallica hits the speakers and Tommy Dreamer and a beer equipped Sandman (in the shape of his life may I add) head to the ring. They have Beulah (incorrect spelling probably) with them and she looks drillable as hell and ready to be worn like a glove. This match was a mess... but a beautiful mess. Spike appears and gets 3D'd, Sandman takes a beating... I enjoyed it but there's really not a lot to say about it.
Match 5 - ECW TV Title - RVD vs Sabu
I hate Bill Afonso and his annoying whistle. Just had to make that clear.
This was a good match. If you've seen any RVD or Sabu match you know what to expect - high spots, insane bumps, chairs, tables, impressive athleticism... It was all here as usual. I like this match but it's not their best match. Plus I've seen this kinda stuff done before and much better. I don't think this deserved the high rating the fans seemed to give it on the night. It was a good match, but it wasn't out of this world. It's really slow at the start and not much happens. Sometimes it looks like they're both just relaxing. But the action does heat up and we get a physical match after a while. The match is so-so and ends in a draw after 30 mins.
Match 6 - ECW World Heavyweight Championship - Shane Douglas vs Al Snow
Al Snow's entrance is so damn trippy here and the ovation he gets is out of this world. Every fan in the arena is waving a head. Man, that was smart business by Vince bringing him back and using him for all of his potential.
So... the match? Most reviews I've read have given this match pelters. Personally, I liked it. Al Snow was set to leave for WWF so it's obvious he wasn't going to win, but as a match it was a scrappy fight. It was barely a wrestling match. It was a brawl. I found it to be a lot of fun and it made me wish Al Snow had more matches in ECW. There's a lot of guys from back then I wish he fought. Al Snow delivered a perfect Asai moonsault to the other members of Triple Threat (Candido & Bigelow). Franchise kicked out a Snow Plow and Snow gave Francine one for her interfering, the locker room came out to congratulate both wrestlers and the event ended with a pretty sweet ECW moment. Good end to a good show, but like the rest of the show it wasn't amazing. Looking back on it though and reliving it was a magical experience though and I look forward to rewatching the other ECW shows. Bring on the summer of EXTREME.
Anyway, Shane Douglas shoddy productions aside... As I said, I decided to relive some ECW nostlagia and it led me to WRESTLEPALOOZA 98. Would it live up the magic I felt watching ECW as a 12 year old boy? Of course it fucking would. Inside I'm still a 12 year old boy 10 years later. I should also mention that you might not like this PPV. Lots of people hate it. I on the other hand really enjoy it. It's kinda like the TV show Friends. It's not spectacular but it's good to watch when you just want something entertaining that doesn't require much thought input.
Match 1 - FBI (Little Gudio & Tracey Smothers) vs Supernova & Blue Meanie
What do you expect from any match involving Blue Meanie? You know it's not going to be serious. That being said, when there isn't any dance offs or referees body slamming the FBI, it's a pretty good match to open a show. Supernova was the most exciting thing about this other than the referee. Oh yeah, and Meanies moonsault was pretty fat and epic too. This got the crowd pumped and excited therefore done its job as an opening match. Fun, harmless junkfood.
Match 2 - Justin Credible vs Mikey Whipwreck
I've never been a fan of Justin Credible, but given the right opponents he could have some pretty good matches. Mikey Whipwreck on the other hand was a good worker and a little underrated. This starts off as brawl, and Credible takes some pretty sweet bumps after being irish whipped. His first one out of the ring was unnecessary, but hey, it's fun. Mikey also takes a sweet fall from the apron into the ringside barrier. This sends the match Credible's way and he draws some good heat from the crowd. He slams Mikey's head into a chair and gets an arena sized BOOOO as a result. The crowd also chant what sounds like, ''You've Got Herpes.'' Pretty funny. You don't get chants like that now. We get some more brawling, a nice reverse DDT and a, ''JUST AN ASSHOLE'' chant. The best moment of the match was Mikey doing a suplex from the guard rail through a table on Credible. This match was a scrappy brawl with some nice bumps , chairs and tables. Not a great match by any means, but solid.
Match 3 - ECW Tag Team Championship - Lance Storm & Chris Candido vs Balls & Axl
Lance Storm and Candido are tag team champions who despise each other. They are also the second longest reigning tag team in ECW history, second only to Raven and Tommy Dreamer, who are another team who despised each other. Go figure. On paper this was an interesting concept, with a team consisting of technicians in a match against 2 overweight rock 'n' rollers who prided themselves on steel chair shots. The promo at the start off the match was more or less Axl telling everyone how they were going to smash their heads in with chairs. That being said, this match had some back and forth wrestling. Like Joey Styles said, Axl was a good wrestler. This was a good tag team match. I mean, Axl doing a slingshot senton over the rope was pretty cool. I've read a lot of criticism for this match, but it's undeserving. This was a good filler match and the crowd were pumped for it. The Ric Flair chants could perhaps be considered a little insulting though - or the biggest compliment ever. It's hard to tell with ECW fans. Decent match, not great, not bad.
- Joey Styles stands in the ring and introduces some legends from the business who had their success during the good ol' Mid-South days. Junkyard Dog, Dick Slater, The Masked Superstar and Bob Armstrong. The crowd gave everyone of them a huge ovation. Not much point in this segment other than appreciating the legends, but a nice homage.
- Shane Douglas comes out next and talks about wrestling, complains about Ric Flair etc and just have an all round complaining session. Taz comes out after and says some angry Taz things and demands the World title from Shane Douglas. Taz then chokes him out and security intervene.
Match 4 - Bam Bam Bigelow vs New Jack
This was one of the greatest hold for hold technical showcases of all time.... LOL. What can I say about this? They beat each other with fists and weapons and Dr. Dre and Ice Cube soundtrack the carnage. Plus, turns out the best way to beat Godzilla is Bam Bam's nuts and a hockey stick... who knew? I'll tell you who - New Jack. Wtf is wrong with New Jack?
Match 4 - The Dudley Boyz vs Tommy Dreamer & Sandman
Before the match we're treated to Joel Gertner quoting Young Money lyrics. You know the song, ''call me Mr. Flintstone, I can make your bed rock.'' But BOOM - Metallica hits the speakers and Tommy Dreamer and a beer equipped Sandman (in the shape of his life may I add) head to the ring. They have Beulah (incorrect spelling probably) with them and she looks drillable as hell and ready to be worn like a glove. This match was a mess... but a beautiful mess. Spike appears and gets 3D'd, Sandman takes a beating... I enjoyed it but there's really not a lot to say about it.
Match 5 - ECW TV Title - RVD vs Sabu
I hate Bill Afonso and his annoying whistle. Just had to make that clear.
This was a good match. If you've seen any RVD or Sabu match you know what to expect - high spots, insane bumps, chairs, tables, impressive athleticism... It was all here as usual. I like this match but it's not their best match. Plus I've seen this kinda stuff done before and much better. I don't think this deserved the high rating the fans seemed to give it on the night. It was a good match, but it wasn't out of this world. It's really slow at the start and not much happens. Sometimes it looks like they're both just relaxing. But the action does heat up and we get a physical match after a while. The match is so-so and ends in a draw after 30 mins.
Match 6 - ECW World Heavyweight Championship - Shane Douglas vs Al Snow
Al Snow's entrance is so damn trippy here and the ovation he gets is out of this world. Every fan in the arena is waving a head. Man, that was smart business by Vince bringing him back and using him for all of his potential.
So... the match? Most reviews I've read have given this match pelters. Personally, I liked it. Al Snow was set to leave for WWF so it's obvious he wasn't going to win, but as a match it was a scrappy fight. It was barely a wrestling match. It was a brawl. I found it to be a lot of fun and it made me wish Al Snow had more matches in ECW. There's a lot of guys from back then I wish he fought. Al Snow delivered a perfect Asai moonsault to the other members of Triple Threat (Candido & Bigelow). Franchise kicked out a Snow Plow and Snow gave Francine one for her interfering, the locker room came out to congratulate both wrestlers and the event ended with a pretty sweet ECW moment. Good end to a good show, but like the rest of the show it wasn't amazing. Looking back on it though and reliving it was a magical experience though and I look forward to rewatching the other ECW shows. Bring on the summer of EXTREME.
Monday, 21 May 2012
Sunday, 20 May 2012
Ring of Honor: Border Wars 2012
Hey readers (Andy). Sorry I haven't updated the blog in a couple months. Just not had the time to watch all the wrestling I've wanted to. But rest assured, I'm back and I'm black. Anyway, I couldn't wait to review this PPV. ROH has been pretty exciting recently, and it's all because of one man in particular - Kevin Steen. This storyline with Eddie Kingston has been built up so well. Kevin Steen is arguably the greatest heel on Earth right now. Maybe even the whole universe (I hear Martian wrestling has some bad as fuck rudos though). Not only was there the Steen match exciting me, but Finlay and Lance Storm were also on board. I was excited. Hell, I even love a bit of Rhino. Here's the match by match review.
Match 1 - Rhino vs Eddie Edwards
A nice opening bout to get the show underway. Rhino dominated much of the match by focusing on Edwards ribs. There was a pretty sweet slam to the floor as well. Edwards takes a lot of punishment to the ribs, and contrary to opinion, he sells it pretty well. He spends much of the match surviving, before delivering a not so pretty German suplex and building some momentum. The pace speeds up and we get a pretty exciting match with Edwards taking it to the ''Man Beast,'' and puts his own body at risk in the process. Edwards manages to sneak the win after a distraction from the outside by Truth Martini. Overall, a good opening match.
Random Thought: Edwards looks like a WWE type of wrestler. I wonder how long it will be before they come sniffing. I can definitely see him there one day.
Match 2 - 6 Man War - All Night Express & TJ Perkins vs Young Bucks & Mike Mondo
''Spirit Squad!!! Spirit Squad!!!''
I love indie wrestling fans. They don't forget anything and they look back on it with a huge cheeser on their faces. This was the case in this match, with the chants directed at the ex-cheerleader, Mikey, now going by the bad ass alias, Mike Mondo. Another thing with indie wrestling fans is they'll tell you when ''you've fucked up, you've fucked up.'' But part of the love for the sport is the botches. In some cases, botches make a match so much better.
This is one of those matches where they just go out and try to steal the show. These wrestlers are young, hungry and trying to prove themselves. They did that. Sure, lots of it was a ''spotfest'' but there's nothing better than that early on in a card to get the adrenalin pumping. This was exciting from start to finish. It's maybe not for everyone, but it sure as hell satisfied me and the crowd were loving every moment.
Match 3 - Grudge Match - Tomasso Ciampa vs Jay Lethal
Jay Lethal is pissed off for losing his Television title and he wants to take away Ciampa's undefeated streak. Classic storyline in pro wrestling and also potential for a damn good match. And it was.
Ciampa looks like a convict Santa Claus with that beard. It made it all the more fitting for a grudge match. The code of honor did not apply in this match and a brawl ensured right from the get go. These 2 beat the shit out of each other before the bell even rang. It was dirty and it was awesome. A slingshot into a Section C sign should happen in more wrestling matches.
The match itself was physical and rather brutal. These guys basically just beat seven shades of manure out of each other. There was nothing flashy or pretty in store here and I wouldn't be surprised if it appears in many 'Match of the Year' lists at the end of the year. This ended with a 10 time Lethal Combination. It was brutal. It was beautiful. Check this out right now.
Match 4 - The Rematch - Mike Bennett vs Lance Storm
At Showdown In The Sun these 2 squared off and had a good match. After the match Bennett gave Lance a post match beat down. Lance was far some pleased and demanded a rematch because he refused to go out like that/ Nice heat going in. It was also nice seeing Lance enter to Fozzy music, just as nice as it was to see him wearing tights again rather than that singlet. Lance Storm looks weird in a singlet. Never forget that.
This match starts off as a brawl. It's not surprising considering the beef they have but I expected it to be a straight wrestling match. Bennett gets some amazing heat from the crowd.. He beats their hero down for long spells and he flips them off. What a legend. This is a good back and forth match though. Not a spectacular match but solid nonetheless. Lance Storm always delivers a well worked match in my opinion.... well when he's given time to work anyway.
This is 1-1 between these 2. A third would be sweet. The speech after the match could be interpreted as a farewell though, yet again, it could also be interpreted as having a little bit of gas left in the tank. I say if Flair can do then Lance can too.
Match 5 - War of the Breakout Stars - Michael Elgin vs Adam Cole
WHAT A FUCKING MATCH. These 2 will main event an ROH show for the World Title within a couple years - that's if they haven't joined another company anyway. I really hope they don't. This match had a bit of everything - brutal strikes, devastating slams and some of the flat out amazing. Michael Elgin is a damn machine. He showed some great strength in this match and Cole did a great job selling everything. This was just a good good good match. I suspect it won't be the last either.
Match 6 - ROH World TV Championship - Roderick Strong (c) vs Fit Finlay
This match was one I was excited about because I got to watch a wrestler I'm a fan of in Roderick Strong defend his title against one of my all time favorite human beings in Fit Finlay. The only thing that took away my excitement is that the outcome was decided from the start - Finlay isn't going to be around a lot in ROH so they're not going to give him the belt. However, another positive that can be gained from this is that it gives Roderick Strong and his title reign even more credibility. Not that Strong hasn't earned credibility - but beating Finlay? That's a lot more respect right there and any wrestler would want that on their record.
The match starts off with some classic, old school wrestling, where Finlay is 9 times out of 10 going to come out on top. Finlay looks just as good as ever. I think Finlay is like a fine wine... one that gets better as it gets older and is so effective that the smallest taste hurts your head the next day - or leaves you legless. In this match, we start off with some great mat wrestling but it doesn't take long for Finlay to start dirtying up Roddy a little, but Roddy gives back just as hard as he gets. Roderick is on top for the most of the contest, but Finlay does enough to leave his mark and remind strong he's figthting Fit fucking Finlay. This was another good match and Finlay reversed the Boston Crab like only he would. I wish this match went a little longer, but it was a solid match nonetheless.
Match 7 - ROH World Tag Team Championship - Fight Without Honor - The Briscoes (c) vs WGTT
Mark Briscoe got stuck at the border? Don't fret though because Canadian border authority is so dumb that all he had to do was disguise himself as a hockey player. This match was unsanctioned, meaning they could do whatever they hell they wanted to each other. A clothesline with a hockey stick a couple minutes in was a good way to start such a match. Mark Briscoe's rope dive was pretty nuts as well. This match was the equivalent of a train wreck. That's a good thing. It was so much fun. Kinda reminiscent of ECW but when ROH gets hardcore it's hardcore awesomeness in its own right. New tag champs as well.
Match 8 - ROH World Championship - Kevin Steen vs Davey Richards (c)
Before I start, let's talk about Kevin Steen. Kevin Steen, in my opinion, is the most interesting character in wrestling right now and easily my favorite heel of 2012, if not the past couple years. But this feud has kinda got Steen over a little, and I think if anyone is the bad guy it's Cornette (legend btw). However, there's no doubting that Steen is a total psycho. He's such a great wrestler though - one of the best brawlers in the world, a great high flyer and an all round great wrestler. Everything about him screams ''not a wrestler'' and that's what makes him so damn amazing. Jimmy Jacobs plays a great evil bastard too.
Davey Richards was the heel in this match though. The Canadian crowd was behind their man Steen and appluading all the nasty shit he done. This match had some nasty bumps. My favorite was the powerbomb to Richards on the apron.... twice. Steen is amazing. Biting, sentoning, moonsaulting, wearing his opponents mouth piece... Sick, demented and utterly captivating This was a fast paced, fun match. A very nice way to end a show and a well deserved and emotional title win for Kevin Steen.
Overall Thoughts: This was a great show. There wasn't a single match on this card that was below par on paper or in practice. If I had to give it a rating I'd give it a 4/5. Check this one out.
Match 1 - Rhino vs Eddie Edwards
A nice opening bout to get the show underway. Rhino dominated much of the match by focusing on Edwards ribs. There was a pretty sweet slam to the floor as well. Edwards takes a lot of punishment to the ribs, and contrary to opinion, he sells it pretty well. He spends much of the match surviving, before delivering a not so pretty German suplex and building some momentum. The pace speeds up and we get a pretty exciting match with Edwards taking it to the ''Man Beast,'' and puts his own body at risk in the process. Edwards manages to sneak the win after a distraction from the outside by Truth Martini. Overall, a good opening match.
Random Thought: Edwards looks like a WWE type of wrestler. I wonder how long it will be before they come sniffing. I can definitely see him there one day.
Match 2 - 6 Man War - All Night Express & TJ Perkins vs Young Bucks & Mike Mondo
''Spirit Squad!!! Spirit Squad!!!''
I love indie wrestling fans. They don't forget anything and they look back on it with a huge cheeser on their faces. This was the case in this match, with the chants directed at the ex-cheerleader, Mikey, now going by the bad ass alias, Mike Mondo. Another thing with indie wrestling fans is they'll tell you when ''you've fucked up, you've fucked up.'' But part of the love for the sport is the botches. In some cases, botches make a match so much better.
This is one of those matches where they just go out and try to steal the show. These wrestlers are young, hungry and trying to prove themselves. They did that. Sure, lots of it was a ''spotfest'' but there's nothing better than that early on in a card to get the adrenalin pumping. This was exciting from start to finish. It's maybe not for everyone, but it sure as hell satisfied me and the crowd were loving every moment.
Match 3 - Grudge Match - Tomasso Ciampa vs Jay Lethal
Jay Lethal is pissed off for losing his Television title and he wants to take away Ciampa's undefeated streak. Classic storyline in pro wrestling and also potential for a damn good match. And it was.
Ciampa looks like a convict Santa Claus with that beard. It made it all the more fitting for a grudge match. The code of honor did not apply in this match and a brawl ensured right from the get go. These 2 beat the shit out of each other before the bell even rang. It was dirty and it was awesome. A slingshot into a Section C sign should happen in more wrestling matches.
The match itself was physical and rather brutal. These guys basically just beat seven shades of manure out of each other. There was nothing flashy or pretty in store here and I wouldn't be surprised if it appears in many 'Match of the Year' lists at the end of the year. This ended with a 10 time Lethal Combination. It was brutal. It was beautiful. Check this out right now.
Match 4 - The Rematch - Mike Bennett vs Lance Storm
At Showdown In The Sun these 2 squared off and had a good match. After the match Bennett gave Lance a post match beat down. Lance was far some pleased and demanded a rematch because he refused to go out like that/ Nice heat going in. It was also nice seeing Lance enter to Fozzy music, just as nice as it was to see him wearing tights again rather than that singlet. Lance Storm looks weird in a singlet. Never forget that.
This match starts off as a brawl. It's not surprising considering the beef they have but I expected it to be a straight wrestling match. Bennett gets some amazing heat from the crowd.. He beats their hero down for long spells and he flips them off. What a legend. This is a good back and forth match though. Not a spectacular match but solid nonetheless. Lance Storm always delivers a well worked match in my opinion.... well when he's given time to work anyway.
This is 1-1 between these 2. A third would be sweet. The speech after the match could be interpreted as a farewell though, yet again, it could also be interpreted as having a little bit of gas left in the tank. I say if Flair can do then Lance can too.
Match 5 - War of the Breakout Stars - Michael Elgin vs Adam Cole
WHAT A FUCKING MATCH. These 2 will main event an ROH show for the World Title within a couple years - that's if they haven't joined another company anyway. I really hope they don't. This match had a bit of everything - brutal strikes, devastating slams and some of the flat out amazing. Michael Elgin is a damn machine. He showed some great strength in this match and Cole did a great job selling everything. This was just a good good good match. I suspect it won't be the last either.
Match 6 - ROH World TV Championship - Roderick Strong (c) vs Fit Finlay
This match was one I was excited about because I got to watch a wrestler I'm a fan of in Roderick Strong defend his title against one of my all time favorite human beings in Fit Finlay. The only thing that took away my excitement is that the outcome was decided from the start - Finlay isn't going to be around a lot in ROH so they're not going to give him the belt. However, another positive that can be gained from this is that it gives Roderick Strong and his title reign even more credibility. Not that Strong hasn't earned credibility - but beating Finlay? That's a lot more respect right there and any wrestler would want that on their record.
The match starts off with some classic, old school wrestling, where Finlay is 9 times out of 10 going to come out on top. Finlay looks just as good as ever. I think Finlay is like a fine wine... one that gets better as it gets older and is so effective that the smallest taste hurts your head the next day - or leaves you legless. In this match, we start off with some great mat wrestling but it doesn't take long for Finlay to start dirtying up Roddy a little, but Roddy gives back just as hard as he gets. Roderick is on top for the most of the contest, but Finlay does enough to leave his mark and remind strong he's figthting Fit fucking Finlay. This was another good match and Finlay reversed the Boston Crab like only he would. I wish this match went a little longer, but it was a solid match nonetheless.
Match 7 - ROH World Tag Team Championship - Fight Without Honor - The Briscoes (c) vs WGTT
Mark Briscoe got stuck at the border? Don't fret though because Canadian border authority is so dumb that all he had to do was disguise himself as a hockey player. This match was unsanctioned, meaning they could do whatever they hell they wanted to each other. A clothesline with a hockey stick a couple minutes in was a good way to start such a match. Mark Briscoe's rope dive was pretty nuts as well. This match was the equivalent of a train wreck. That's a good thing. It was so much fun. Kinda reminiscent of ECW but when ROH gets hardcore it's hardcore awesomeness in its own right. New tag champs as well.
Match 8 - ROH World Championship - Kevin Steen vs Davey Richards (c)
Before I start, let's talk about Kevin Steen. Kevin Steen, in my opinion, is the most interesting character in wrestling right now and easily my favorite heel of 2012, if not the past couple years. But this feud has kinda got Steen over a little, and I think if anyone is the bad guy it's Cornette (legend btw). However, there's no doubting that Steen is a total psycho. He's such a great wrestler though - one of the best brawlers in the world, a great high flyer and an all round great wrestler. Everything about him screams ''not a wrestler'' and that's what makes him so damn amazing. Jimmy Jacobs plays a great evil bastard too.
Davey Richards was the heel in this match though. The Canadian crowd was behind their man Steen and appluading all the nasty shit he done. This match had some nasty bumps. My favorite was the powerbomb to Richards on the apron.... twice. Steen is amazing. Biting, sentoning, moonsaulting, wearing his opponents mouth piece... Sick, demented and utterly captivating This was a fast paced, fun match. A very nice way to end a show and a well deserved and emotional title win for Kevin Steen.
Overall Thoughts: This was a great show. There wasn't a single match on this card that was below par on paper or in practice. If I had to give it a rating I'd give it a 4/5. Check this one out.
Monday, 2 April 2012
Wrestlemania 28: Match by Match
Wrestlemania is like Christmas for a wrestling fan. No matter how disillusioning and infuriating WWE can be at times, we're always going to tune in to Mania with childlike glee, expecting magic. Or maybe that's just me. The last 2 were disappointing PPV's to say the least, but I had high hopes for this year. So, let's dive into it, match by match.
1. Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus - World Heavyweight Championship match
What the actual fuck was this? Really? Why did they waste such a potentially good match. It was pretty obvious since before the Rumble that Sheamus was getting pushed to win the title at Mania, but they could have at least given both of them some time to put on a solid match. I mean, Brodus Clay dances for over 5 minutes, why couldn't they have given that time to Bryan and Sheamus. Bryan in my opinion is the worlds greatest wrestler, so even 7 minutes would have been enough to have a solid match because Sheamus isn't bad either. After months of building Bryan up to have him lose at the big stage.... I'm angry. That being said, it was an unpredictable start. I'm just gutted the best wrestler in the world was left humiliated at Mania.
2. Kane vs Randy Orton
Surprisingly good match with a very good finish. It was very back and forth and a good opener to the show (Sheamus and Bryan wasn't exactly a match). I was glad to see Kane win. He needed the big win against a big superstar like Orton. This has the makings of a good feud if it continues for awhile.
3. Cody Rhodes vs Big Show - Intercontinental Championship match
Bullshit as a fan of Cody and the Intercontinental title. Cody is great and one of my favorites in WWE. When he brought the classic IC title back, I thought WWE were going to take it seriously again. I thought Cody could restore some of the credibility to the belt. But he's rarely defended it at PPV's. It used to be the IC title was a major title at PPV's and would often showcase the best matches. I just want the IC title to mean something again. Cody was the ideal candidate to bring that credibility back, and retaining on the grand stage would have been a step closer towards that. Unfortunately though, WWE don't really give a shit about their titles these days, do they? Rant over.
The match was decent filler, but I wish it was never booked and Cody fought someone more complimentary to his style and attempted to steal the show. It was poetic justice for Big Show I suppose. The positive though, Cody will get a push now.
4. Kelly Kelly and Maria Menounos vs Beth Phoenix and Eve Torres
Pointless match but entertaining nonetheless.
5. The Undertaker vs Triple H - Hell in a Cell w/HBK as Special Guest Referee
The 'END OF AN ERA' match. Ego's in the mix. A dramatic storyline brought to a conclusion. This had the ingredients of a good match, but to be honest I'm sick of them all. It was a good match and watchable, but for me, it was weapon heavy and should have had some more wrestling. In all honesty though, I didn't think it was an amazing match. Good but not great. Taker looking like a lesbian was pretty funny though.
6. Team Johnny vs Team Teddy
Lots of fun to watch. Dolph overselling moves, fast paced excitement and all round fun. A good match and it was great to see Team Johnny pick up the win.
7. CM Punk vs Chris Jericho - WWE Championship
Wow. Match of the night and match of the year so far in WWE. The match began with some great psychology and then turned into a wrestling joy to watch. Even with the botches it was great. The suplex from the apron looked sore. Definitely the show stealer most people expected it to be anyway. I really hope they have more matches in future.
8. The Rock vs John Cena
This match was passable considering all the build up. They both showed some good wrestling ability and it was a back and forth, exciting match. My only criticism is that it should have been more aggressive and maybe had an announcers table breaking or something. A good main event though and a good ending.
Overall, a good Mania this year that was very enjoyable.
1. Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus - World Heavyweight Championship match
What the actual fuck was this? Really? Why did they waste such a potentially good match. It was pretty obvious since before the Rumble that Sheamus was getting pushed to win the title at Mania, but they could have at least given both of them some time to put on a solid match. I mean, Brodus Clay dances for over 5 minutes, why couldn't they have given that time to Bryan and Sheamus. Bryan in my opinion is the worlds greatest wrestler, so even 7 minutes would have been enough to have a solid match because Sheamus isn't bad either. After months of building Bryan up to have him lose at the big stage.... I'm angry. That being said, it was an unpredictable start. I'm just gutted the best wrestler in the world was left humiliated at Mania.
2. Kane vs Randy Orton
Surprisingly good match with a very good finish. It was very back and forth and a good opener to the show (Sheamus and Bryan wasn't exactly a match). I was glad to see Kane win. He needed the big win against a big superstar like Orton. This has the makings of a good feud if it continues for awhile.
3. Cody Rhodes vs Big Show - Intercontinental Championship match
Bullshit as a fan of Cody and the Intercontinental title. Cody is great and one of my favorites in WWE. When he brought the classic IC title back, I thought WWE were going to take it seriously again. I thought Cody could restore some of the credibility to the belt. But he's rarely defended it at PPV's. It used to be the IC title was a major title at PPV's and would often showcase the best matches. I just want the IC title to mean something again. Cody was the ideal candidate to bring that credibility back, and retaining on the grand stage would have been a step closer towards that. Unfortunately though, WWE don't really give a shit about their titles these days, do they? Rant over.
The match was decent filler, but I wish it was never booked and Cody fought someone more complimentary to his style and attempted to steal the show. It was poetic justice for Big Show I suppose. The positive though, Cody will get a push now.
4. Kelly Kelly and Maria Menounos vs Beth Phoenix and Eve Torres
Pointless match but entertaining nonetheless.
5. The Undertaker vs Triple H - Hell in a Cell w/HBK as Special Guest Referee
The 'END OF AN ERA' match. Ego's in the mix. A dramatic storyline brought to a conclusion. This had the ingredients of a good match, but to be honest I'm sick of them all. It was a good match and watchable, but for me, it was weapon heavy and should have had some more wrestling. In all honesty though, I didn't think it was an amazing match. Good but not great. Taker looking like a lesbian was pretty funny though.
6. Team Johnny vs Team Teddy
Lots of fun to watch. Dolph overselling moves, fast paced excitement and all round fun. A good match and it was great to see Team Johnny pick up the win.
7. CM Punk vs Chris Jericho - WWE Championship
Wow. Match of the night and match of the year so far in WWE. The match began with some great psychology and then turned into a wrestling joy to watch. Even with the botches it was great. The suplex from the apron looked sore. Definitely the show stealer most people expected it to be anyway. I really hope they have more matches in future.
8. The Rock vs John Cena
This match was passable considering all the build up. They both showed some good wrestling ability and it was a back and forth, exciting match. My only criticism is that it should have been more aggressive and maybe had an announcers table breaking or something. A good main event though and a good ending.
Overall, a good Mania this year that was very enjoyable.
Tuesday, 6 March 2012
They Might Sag, But They Sure As Hell Don't Lag
LDN LONDON EYE 48 - Finlay vs Mal Sanders
This is just nearly 30 minutes of 2 legends of UK wrestling taking cheap shots at each other in good spirits. You can tell they're both having a blast out there. You can't exactly call Finlay a babyface, but the crowd are 100% behind him here (at the start of the match he even hugs some old ladies, has warm exchanges with fans and even gives a little cuddle to a beer swilling goon).
The match itself is very entertaining. It isn't pretty and that's what makes it so good. Both of these guys are very gifted wrestlers, but even the old school holds have a dirty edge to them. Sanders bashing Finlay's arm into the mat after every arm hold at the start of the match is amazing. It pisses everyone off but he keeps doing it and gets some great heel heat. Enjoy this one. One for those who like their wrestling old, cheap and nasty.
This is just nearly 30 minutes of 2 legends of UK wrestling taking cheap shots at each other in good spirits. You can tell they're both having a blast out there. You can't exactly call Finlay a babyface, but the crowd are 100% behind him here (at the start of the match he even hugs some old ladies, has warm exchanges with fans and even gives a little cuddle to a beer swilling goon).
The match itself is very entertaining. It isn't pretty and that's what makes it so good. Both of these guys are very gifted wrestlers, but even the old school holds have a dirty edge to them. Sanders bashing Finlay's arm into the mat after every arm hold at the start of the match is amazing. It pisses everyone off but he keeps doing it and gets some great heel heat. Enjoy this one. One for those who like their wrestling old, cheap and nasty.
Monday, 5 March 2012
Caribbean Bloody Matches
Just thought I'd share this. It's really entertaining. Some of it is so bad its good and the commentary really is woeful.
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