Pro Wrestling is FAKE!?!

[Speilmen230]

Yeah that was both a vote of confidence to Prichard and what he has done along with the recent Dave Lagana hire and a don't let the door hit you in the ass to Russo.

[Speilmen230]

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/250163-report-brodus-clay-deemed-qreckless-a-unsafeq-by-mcmahon

Report: Brodus Clay Deemed "Reckless & Unsafe" By McMahon
by Nick Paglino
February 22, 2012


Brodus ClayThe Wrestling Observer is reporting that Brodus Clay's removal from WWE TV is indeed due to the fact that Vince McMahon feels his ring work needs improvement.

Furthermore, it's being said that McMahon feels Clay is both "unsafe and reckless" in the ring, and he has mandated that Clay not return to action until his ring work improves.

McMahon's views on ring safety have raised some eyebrows in WWE, however, as some feel it's odd that McMahon is preaching that Clay be kept off TV while he works on his skills, however he allowed both Mark Henry and Cody Rhodes to compete on Monday night as both are currently hurt. No word on when WWE intends to have Clay return to TV.

[Speilmen230]

Last night's edition of WWE Raw finished with a 3.25 cable rating, which up from last week's 2.99 draw.

The show took in 4.63 million viewers, and here are the hourly figures:

Hour one drew 4.66 million viewers, and hour two took in 4.59 million viewers.

[Speilmen230]

Laurinaitis/Long Feud

Current creative plans call for John Laurinaitis' feud with Theodore Long, for full control of both brands, to culminate with a winner takes all match at WrestleMania 28.

According to reports, this match will replace Money In The Bank in getting a number of superstars involved in the match. Laurinaitis would be the captain of a team of heel WWE stars against a babyface team captained by Long at the pay-per-view, with the winning captain becoming General Manager of both Raw and SmackDown.

Backstage Heat On Rey Mysterio

As previously reported, Rey Mysterio visited backstage at last week's Raw in San Diego, California, and reports are indicating that WWE brass had negative words to say regarding the injured superstar. Reports are noting that the negativity has stemmed from difficult contract negotiations with Mysterio, as well as him not returning from injury as quickly as WWE would like.

[Rodey]

Teddy/Laurinaitis feud? Fuck me sideways. The WWE really doesn't have any idea what they're doing anymore.

[Speilmen230]

what is perplexing to me is how they were on FIRE last summer during the Punk/Cena/McMahon feud. And then after Money in the Bank they royally fucked up everything. Punk returned too soon, Miz and Truth returned too soon, Kevin Nash was awful, & Triple H seemed to be just thrown in there because Nash fucked everything up.

Its like once the angle with punk caught on fire they played hot potato with it because they didn't know where else to go with it.

[K3nTaKa0s]

WWE's live Super Smackdown episode on Tuesday, February 21 scored a 1.67 rating, down 14 percent from the most-recent Friday episode on February 17 and down 22 percent compared to Smackdown's recent hot streak on Friday nights.

It was the lowest Smackdown rating since July 1, 2011 and in the Top 5 for lowest Smackdown rating ever on Syfy.

Source: PWTorch

[CrashDMB237]

I love how you only post those things when the ratings are down but conveniently miss the on Speilman posted about ratings being up :lol

Oh and I'm sure it had nothing to do with the fact it aired on a totally different night than it normally does, save about 5 times a year.

[K3nTaKa0s]

I'm sure WWE has to be disappointed with that number considering they hyped up Bryan/Punk pretty well on Monday night.

[crush0617]

Teddy/Laurinaitis feud? Fuck me sideways. The WWE really doesn't have any idea what they're doing anymore.

I much much would have rathered money in the bank at mania. Also taking Clay off of TV because of his in ring when they still have Khali on TV. As you said he WWE really doesn't have any idea what they're doing anymore. Maybe TnA can actually become a good alternative although they still have a long way to go imo.

[Speilmen230]

http://antsmarching.org/forum/showthread.php?t=307629

Looks like Russo found a new job already. :lol

[K3nTaKa0s]

^ The way some of the graphics came up on the screen, it looked like it might've been a Bischoff/Hervey production. I don't think it is, however, since I've seen no mention of it on the usual wrestling sites.

[Speilmen230]

Monday Night Raw is coming to Dayton April 30th. The day after Extreme Rules. Guess I will be going to that.

[K3nTaKa0s]

There you go.

Is it at the Nutter Center?

[K3nTaKa0s]

We'll have a complete rundown in the next Observer, but WWE took in $112.9 million and lost $8.6 million (before taxes loss was $13.1 million) during the Christmas quarter. Last year, the numbers were $122.5 million in revenue and a $14.4 million profit. It's the first money losing quarter in years.

Wow.

[JacobLovesYou]

That's a misleading figure. I like how you post the numbers without giving the reasons the company gave. Namely, all of the work done on the WWE network that they can't make money on yet.

They actually made more money in 2011 then in 2012.

[K3nTaKa0s]

What reasons did the company give?

I'm not convinced that the WWE Network will be as profitable as some may think.

[JacobLovesYou]

http://m.wrestlezone.com/news/250173-wwe-reveals-2011-revenue-total-a-4th-quarter-results

[Speilmen230]

There you go.

Is it at the Nutter Center?

Yessir. EJ Nutter Center at Wright State University.

[K3nTaKa0s]

A friend of mine used to live in Beavercreek. He would always refer to it as Wrong State. heh.

[jcomey]

That's a misleading figure. I like how you post the numbers without giving the reasons the company gave. Namely, all of the work done on the WWE network that they can't make money on yet.

They actually made more money in 2011 then in 2012.

I hope so, considering 2012 isn't even two months old yet. ; )

[JacobLovesYou]

lol you know what I meant

[bartender_man]

Laurinaitis/Long Feud

Current creative plans call for John Laurinaitis' feud with Theodore Long, for full control of both brands, to culminate with a winner takes all match at WrestleMania 28.

According to reports, this match will replace Money In The Bank in getting a number of superstars involved in the match. Laurinaitis would be the captain of a team of heel WWE stars against a babyface team captained by Long at the pay-per-view, with the winning captain becoming General Manager of both Raw and SmackDown.

Backstage Heat On Rey Mysterio

As previously reported, Rey Mysterio visited backstage at last week's Raw in San Diego, California, and reports are indicating that WWE brass had negative words to say regarding the injured superstar. Reports are noting that the negativity has stemmed from difficult contract negotiations with Mysterio, as well as him not returning from injury as quickly as WWE would like.


How can they take away the MITB matches? So stupid, that was a really creative idea and fans really got into that, I loved the idea personally and now they scrap it for Long vs Mr.Excitement. Boring.... Nearly as bad as Cole vs Lawler last year. I'm personally most excited for Taker Vs HHH in a cell for Mania. Shawn as guest referee should make it interesting. Rock vs Cena, we all know will have Cena win with more Super Cena bullshit. So sick of that already....

[bartender_man]

I love how you only post those things when the ratings are down but conveniently miss the on Speilman posted about ratings being up :lol

Oh and I'm sure it had nothing to do with the fact it aired on a totally different night than it normally does, save about 5 times a year.

He has a huge resentment against WWE, I find it hilarious reading his posts. Lol. I ain't big fan of WWE these days, but think TNA is pathetic also.

[CrashDMB237]

What reasons did the company give?

I'm not convinced that the WWE Network will be as profitable as some may think.

You should probably read the article posted right after yours. And it doesn't matter what you think about the network being profitable, they spent MILLIONS in preparation I'm sure. So take what Vince said in the statement about the 2011 fourth quarter paired with the money spent on the network and all of a sudden these numbers make perfect, complete sense. Context is a bitch when it works against you huh?

[gocubsgo3822]

I will be mad if no MiTB

[K3nTaKa0s]

You should probably read the article posted right after yours. And it doesn't matter what you think about the network being profitable, they spent MILLIONS in preparation I'm sure. So take what Vince said in the statement about the 2011 fourth quarter paired with the money spent on the network and all of a sudden these numbers make perfect, complete sense. Context is a bitch when it works against you huh?

No, not really.

[CrashDMB237]

No, not really.

Waddaya know, ignore the topic at hand, don't answer anything posed against you :lol

[K3nTaKa0s]

How come the only time you post in this thread is to run your mouth about me? I didn't post on here for two weeks and you didn't make one post. lol.

So.. if you take out the network costs, they what, broke even? WooHoo for breaking even! How about Vengeance doing one of the worst PPV buyrates of all-time?

[crush0617]

How come the only time you post in this thread is to run your mouth about me? I didn't post on here for two weeks and you didn't make one post. lol.

So.. if you take out the network costs, they what, broke even? WooHoo for breaking even! How about Vengeance doing one of the worst PPV buyrates of all-time?

I am not going to defend the WWE and how clueless they can be at times but, even Vengeance did 6x the business TnA's top PPV Bound for Glory did.

[CrashDMB237]

How come the only time you post in this thread is to run your mouth about me? I didn't post on here for two weeks and you didn't make one post. lol.

So.. if you take out the network costs, they what, broke even? WooHoo for breaking even! How about Vengeance doing one of the worst PPV buyrates of all-time?

You need to do some research. I've posted plenty, you've posted plenty. Believe it or not, you and TNA are close to last on my list of "shit I care about" when I'm reading about wrestling. Get over yourself.

Did you not read any of the press release? You babbling makes me think you didn't. Let me know when you did, then we'll have a grown up discussion.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Oh, I did we research.

It must "sting" a little bit that TNA is the far better product at the moment.

[K3nTaKa0s]

I am not going to defend the WWE and how clueless they can be at times but, even Vengeance did 6x the business TnA's top PPV Bound for Glory did.

You're making that sound like that shouldn't be the case. WWE should be doing a lot better than TNA in TV and PPV.

[CrashDMB237]

Oh, I did we research.

It must "sting" a little bit that TNA is the far better product at the moment.

Why would it sting if I think TNA's product is a piece of shit and I don't watch or care about it? If I thought there was some massive competition and battle for audience interest, it would sting. But there isn't and never will be.

[Doors Allan Coe]

Oh, I did we research.

It must "sting" a little bit that TNA is the far better product at the moment.

:lol:lol:lol:lol

My greased up guys in undies are better than your greased up guys in undies!!

WWE > TNA in every measurable way.

TV, PPV, Merch, Live shows, business model...

If somebody said "hey, which company do you want?" only a fool would say...oh TNA...they have the better product!

[JacobLovesYou]

How come the only time you post in this thread is to run your mouth about me? I didn't post on here for two weeks and you didn't make one post. lol.

So.. if you take out the network costs, they what, broke even? WooHoo for breaking even! How about Vengeance doing one of the worst PPV buyrates of all-time?

:lol:lol:lol:lol

My greased up guys in undies are better than your greased up guys in undies!!

WWE > TNA in every measurable way.

TV, PPV, Merch, Live shows, business model...

If somebody said "hey, which company do you want?" only a fool would say...oh TNA...they have the better product!

exactly. if WWE's focus was purely ratings and PPV rates, then the product would be better. the attention is put elsewhere in an effort to continue growing as a global enterprise. not saying its an excuse for crappy writing, but WWE has way more on it's plate now then RAW.

[Doors Allan Coe]

exactly. if WWE's focus was purely ratings and PPV rates, then the product would be better. the attention is put elsewhere in an effort to continue growing as a global enterprise. not saying its an excuse for crappy writing, but WWE has way more on it's plate now then RAW.

:thumbsup:thumbsup

I'm still waiting on Heyman...:D

[dmbmuskie]

WWE would be better if they had real competition.

[CrashDMB237]

WWE would be better if they had real competition.

Exactly why the attitude era was the best time for wrestling. They were constantly one-upping Bischoff. Now Bischoff isn't even on their radar.

[JacobLovesYou]

They would definitely be better if there was competition. Its going to be interesting how the network does. If all ppvs are going to it, that really changes how a lot of things work, especially with revenue stream.

[CrashDMB237]

They would definitely be better if there was competition. Its going to be interesting how the network does. If all ppvs are going to it, that really changes how a lot of things work, especially with revenue stream.

I can't see any way that all PPVs end up on the network. That's not a smart business decision at all. Maybe 2 or 3 per year exclusive for network subscribers. It actually would make sense for people that buy every PPV, especially if the network is in an affordable package from their provider (assuming it will be part of cable packages). If they're spending over 50 bucks just to see those two PPVs per year regularly, they could pay 50 bucks for the year and get the whole network rather than just two events.

[Doors Allan Coe]

They would definitely be better if there was competition. Its going to be interesting how the network does. If all ppvs are going to it, that really changes how a lot of things work, especially with revenue stream.

I can't see any way that all PPVs end up on the network. That's not a smart business decision at all. Maybe 2 or 3 per year exclusive for network subscribers. It actually would make sense for people that buy every PPV, especially if the network is in an affordable package from their provider (assuming it will be part of cable packages). If they're spending over 50 bucks just to see those two PPVs per year regularly, they could pay 50 bucks for the year and get the whole network rather than just two events.

Yeah. No way they move all the PPVs.

They are just going to move some of the crappy ones to TV.

Basically it's a ploy to get PPV buyers to sign up automatically. Maybe the WWE will finally cash in the "Clash of the Champions" and instead of another generic PPV name. I'm assuming whichever PPVs months they do the shittiest will be moving.

Hopefully that would not only make fans get the network. But, it could also up the buyrates for other PPVs consider people will anticipate then more. For instance, I could see the WWE putting June/July or Sept/Oct PPVs on the network in an attempt to really promote a Summer Slam or Survivor Series.

[Speilmen230]

just bought two tickets to Monday Night Raw for April 30th in Dayton. I'm taking my buddy who has never been to a wrestling event and has never understood the allure of Professional Wrestling. Hopefully we get a good show and i can at least show him what i see in it. Having it be the night after a PPV kinda makes me even more excited.

[CrashDMB237]

The Nutter Center is sweet. I usually head out there once a year to compete with the music group I teach. It's a fun 5 days out there, even though there's close to nothing to do :lol

[Speilmen230]

I'm really surprised by these:

http://www.wweshop.com/item/kayfabe-i-got-heat-t-shirt/Men/01-15788
http://www.wweshop.com/item/kayfabe-heel-t-shirt/Men/01-15764
http://www.wweshop.com/item/kayfabe-jobber-t-shirt/Men/01-15780
http://www.wweshop.com/item/kayfabe-im-so-over-t-shirt/Men/01-15796
http://www.wweshop.com/item/kayfabe-whats-your-finish-t-shirt/Men/01-15804

[dmbmuskie]

Is the Iron Sheik Twitter account real?

[CrashDMB237]

He says he doesn't have a Twitter, but who knows with him.

[Speilmen230]

Anonymous Text from a WWE Talent.

"[The Rock] comes in to use WWE to get back the audience he lost doing Disney movies, which is fine but he's been back over a year and name one person he helped make a bigger star since then? No one.

"He's here for himself, he keeps to himself, and he keeps someone who's actually touring here all year from making a bigger payday at the bigger shows. It's all about making this the "biggest" Mania of all time. OK, then what do we do the rest of the year? Who's been made? You think he took ANY blame for Survivor [Series] not drawing? Of course not, but how do you feud with a guy on the Titantron? Cena nailed the guy dead on tonight.

"Say anything about HHH, Taker, etc. still being in the top spot but if they were needed to work the road, they would and they would still work their asses off as much as they needed to. Rock is out for Rock and the idea he's here to better anything but his own wallet is the biggest work of 2012."

[Pablo23]

Basically whinny workers who can't get over so they are jealous of the Rock's talent & can't draw.

[mwat9050]

exactly. if WWE's focus was purely ratings and PPV rates, then the product would be better. the attention is put elsewhere in an effort to continue growing as a global enterprise. not saying its an excuse for crappy writing, but WWE has way more on it's plate now then RAW.


I def agree with what you are saying, but I think the biggest element of why the product is horseshit at ttimes is the awful writing. Most of those writers arent "wrestling" people, or those that know the buisness well.

And the fact that they still care about ratings is another element that will only keep the product shitty. They let the ratings breakdowns dictate where they put guys on the shows now, and how hard their push would be. Zack Ryder is a prime example of that. They buried him after punk/danialson/ryder had the bad rating after TLC. And.......thats why keep forcing Cena on the last rating segment. And of course......that led to the worst angle in several years.....Kane/Cena.

[mwat9050]

Basically whinny workers who can't get over so they are jealous of the Rock's talent & can't draw.

Exactly- Its not like Rock "has" to comeback. He makes enough money doing other projects.

And these same clowns that are pissed about him coming back, won't be bitching when their Mania paychecks are substantially larger then usual.

[DmBand801]

Exactly- Its not like Rock "has" to comeback. He makes enough money doing other projects.

And these same clowns that are pissed about him coming back, won't be bitching when their Mania paychecks are substantially larger then usual.

Agreed on both counts. The Rock made around $15 million for doing The Tooth Fairy. He definitely doesn't need WWE.

And which current WWE talent would refuse a program with The Rock if it was offered to them?

[Doors Allan Coe]

Basically whinny workers who can't get over so they are jealous of the Rock's talent & can't draw.

Exactly- Its not like Rock "has" to comeback. He makes enough money doing other projects.

And these same clowns that are pissed about him coming back, won't be bitching when their Mania paychecks are substantially larger then usual.

Agreed on both counts. The Rock made around $15 million for doing The Tooth Fairy. He definitely doesn't need WWE.

And which current WWE talent would refuse a program with The Rock if it was offered to them?


Well, I haven't watcheds any of the Rock's recent WWE returns.

But, the complaint this myster worker had is valid. If the Rock han't layed down, his complaint is valid.

Wrestling is a tough and brutal touring business. You can't dislike somebody for being protective over all the workers who tour all year round. The WWE has been having the Rock make "Titantron" appearances and feuding via satellite for years.

The Rock is great. But, I don't discount the points this mystery worker made. I think the fact everybody is so defensive illustrates the fact this guys has a point.

[Speilmen230]

More On The TNA Departure of Russo & Current Creative Team
by Nick Paglino
February 26, 2012


Impact WrestlingThe latest in the developing story of creative team changes in TNA, according to The Wrestling Observer, is that Vince Russo's departure from TNA was considered "business as usual and no great difference when it comes to creative."

One of the factors that may have contributed to the departure of Russo is that when Bruce Prichard was brought into the company, one of his main goals was to slow the pacing of Impact down, concentrate on a couple angles, and not cram as much into each episode.

The TNA creative team now consists of Bruce Prichard, Eric Bischoff, Dave Lagana and Matt Conway.

[JacobLovesYou]

Yeah I totally understand both sides. Business trumps all. However, several guys who won't get WM programs WON'T get that inflated paycheck. And Rock hasn't put anyone over verbally or in the ring. At the time of the survivor series, Miz was in line to feud with Punk next. Could Rock/Cena really not put over Miz/Truth that night? The tension between Rock/Cena could've cost them the match and ppv could've ended with the two getting physical in the ring just like it did.

And if the reports are true that Rock shows up, goes to his locker-room with his entourage, does his work for the night and leaves, then he deserves the animosity.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Outside of selling tickets for Wrestlemania (yes, I realize that's why he is back), Rock's return has been a waste.

[JacobLovesYou]

I think it stems from announcing the Cena/Rock match a year in advance. If his absence wasn't hanging over everyones heads for so long it might not feel so wasted. They could've teased a future clash on RAW after last years WM, Rock could've disappeared, then it could've been a legit surprise when Cena said he wanted his partner to be Rock at SSeries. They could've renewed their beef at SS which cost them the match. The next night on RAW they could've announced the match for WM.

In that scenario I bet they would've got a bigger SS buyrate.

[Speilmen230]

I think it stems from announcing the Cena/Rock match a year in advance. If his absence wasn't hanging over everyones heads for so long it might not feel so wasted. They could've teased a future clash on RAW after last years WM, Rock could've disappeared, then it could've been a legit surprise when Cena said he wanted his partner to be Rock at SSeries. They could've renewed their beef at SS which cost them the match. The next night on RAW they could've announced the match for WM.

In that scenario I bet they would've got a bigger SS buyrate.

:thumbsup

[dmbmuskie]

I'd rather have the Rock on 4 times per year than seeing just about anyone else 52 times.

[aicdmb]

Anyone see the terrible show on (hist,a&e,or disc) about how its not real. All the wrestlers had masks on like the masked magician showing tricks. Fucking brutal

[JacobLovesYou]

Ha yeah I've watched part of that before. I think I caught it on Bio one night. The good news was it was one of those nights where they show like 4 wrestling biographies in a row. I love the Andre the Giant one.

[JRS1386]

I'd rather have the Rock on 4 times per year than seeing just about anyone else 52 times.

You're odd

[mwat9050]

Well, I haven't watcheds any of the Rock's recent WWE returns.

But, the complaint this myster worker had is valid. If the Rock han't layed down, his complaint is valid.

Wrestling is a tough and brutal touring business. You can't dislike somebody for being protective over all the workers who tour all year round. The WWE has been having the Rock make "Titantron" appearances and feuding via satellite for years.

The Rock is great. But, I don't discount the points this mystery worker made. I think the fact everybody is so defensive illustrates the fact this guys has a point.


You dont get the business man.............

[mwat9050]

Yeah I totally understand both sides. Business trumps all. However, several guys who won't get WM programs WON'T get that inflated paycheck. And Rock hasn't put anyone over verbally or in the ring. At the time of the survivor series, Miz was in line to feud with Punk next. Could Rock/Cena really not put over Miz/Truth that night? The tension between Rock/Cena could've cost them the match and ppv could've ended with the two getting physical in the ring just like it did.

And if the reports are true that Rock shows up, goes to his locker-room with his entourage, does his work for the night and leaves, then he deserves the animosity.


Im not trying to be a smartass at all, but where did you hear that Miz was gonna fued with Punk? I havent heard anything remotely close to that, and I listen to Meltzers show(with Alvarez) quite regularly, and I check out the other sites.

[mwat9050]

I think it stems from announcing the Cena/Rock match a year in advance. If his absence wasn't hanging over everyones heads for so long it might not feel so wasted. They could've teased a future clash on RAW after last years WM, Rock could've disappeared, then it could've been a legit surprise when Cena said he wanted his partner to be Rock at SSeries. They could've renewed their beef at SS which cost them the match. The next night on RAW they could've announced the match for WM.

In that scenario I bet they would've got a bigger SS buyrate.


That would have been the smart thing to do, no doubt about it. But.....you know that WWE likes to shit down their legs

[K3nTaKa0s]

You dont get the business man.............

Oh boy. Glad I'm not involved in this one.

[Speilmen230]

Oh boy. Glad I'm not involved in this one.

I can't tell if it was sarcasm or not. If it isn't then i am gonna grab a bag of popcorn and sit back and enjoy the show.

[Doors Allan Coe]

I can't tell if it was sarcasm or not. If it isn't then i am gonna grab a bag of popcorn and sit back and enjoy the show.

Oh boy. Glad I'm not involved in this one.

You dont get the business man.............

Im not trying to be a smartass at all, but where did you hear that Miz was gonna fued with Punk? I havent heard anything remotely close to that, and I listen to Meltzers show(with Alvarez) quite regularly, and I check out the other sites.

I mean what's the point guys? He "gets" the business is you listen to Meltzer... :lol:lol

That's like saying you understand sports because you sometimes listen to Colin Cowherd...

[Speilmen230]

and.. here... we... go...

:lol

[Doors Allan Coe]

and.. here... we... go...

:lol

;)

I took a pretty neutral stance on the Rock thing too. I think depending on the details this unknown worker could be making a very valid point.

[Speilmen230]

I think they have a valid point as well.

It is curious to me that when Austin comes back for a one off deal hosting or what have you, there is hardly ever any backlash and generally he gets praised for his continued support and adding his name to that particular night's card. On the other side of the coin, Rock has had a lot of heat over the years for going Hollywood and only coming back for one off things.

[hbktonyb]

The Rock once per year is better than zero times per year. And I think this feud has made Cena 1000X better.

[Doors Allan Coe]

I think they have a valid point as well.

It is curious to me that when Austin comes back for a one off deal hosting or what have you, there is hardly ever any backlash and generally he gets praised for his continued support and adding his name to that particular night's card. On the other side of the coin, Rock has had a lot of heat over the years for going Hollywood and only coming back for one off things.

Well, the Rock doesn't need wrestling.

From a workers stand point, the Rock is somebody who was made by the wrestling business. Some people take offsense when people seem for forget where they came from. A lot of great workers layed down and took beating to get the Rock over and help make him a huge star.

Personally, I don't think Rock v. Cena is something to complain about. But, I can easily understand somebody that tours for years on end, being frustrated. It's not a one way street, but it could be a valid point.

Again, I don't pay much attention to the comings and goings of the Rock, but he hasn't been actively wrestling for years. Assuming Cena wins, I'm sure this will be a non-story. I'm just guessing we're going to get something similar to Rock/Hogan. Basically allow the fans make the match a classic before anyone even takes a bump.

[Doors Allan Coe]

The Rock once per year is better than zero times per year. And I think this feud has made Cena 1000X better.

:thumbsup

It seems like a pretty decent headliner to WM. Defintely a special attraction.

I actually was flicking around this weekend and caught part of Smackdown. It blew my mind to see Danielson v. Punk and both guys wearing WWE championships. It's crazy.

Just sign the Briscoes to work Wrestlemania and I might buy it!

[Speilmen230]

I feel like the following matches are going to be worth the price of the PPV:

Undertaker/HHH
Jericho/Punk
Danielson/Sheamus
Cena/Rock

in that order too.

[hbktonyb]

I don't care about Danielson/Sheamus, but I'm really looking forward to the rest of those matches.

[Speilmen230]

i just think that it will be a very entertaining match. Danielson has proved that he can work with just about anyone and make it a great match. (see Danielson vs Big Show)

[hbktonyb]

Yeah I like him, I just don't like Sheamus. Dont' understand why he is getting the push, other than the fact he is Haitch's friend.

[Speilmen230]

Yeah I like him, I just don't like Sheamus. Dont' understand why he is getting the push, other than the fact he is Haitch's friend.

Because he gets an amazing reaction from the live crowds. They go ape shit over his yelling and powerhouse moves. He is getting the Goldberg treatment right now. Goes out, yells and screams, kicks ass, big finishing move, match over, pose and yell, crowd eats it up.

[hbktonyb]

I guess. He's just so boring.

[JacobLovesYou]

Im not trying to be a smartass at all, but where did you hear that Miz was gonna fued with Punk? I havent heard anything remotely close to that, and I listen to Meltzers show(with Alvarez) quite regularly, and I check out the other sites.

if you'll give me a min, i'll see if i can't find some links. it was reported around the time of survivor series, and a few weeks ago it was reported that the poor SS buyrate was blamed on Miz and that's way he didn't get the main event push.

I guess. He's just so boring.
i think vince sees him as a possible new "make a wish" "be a star" big name guy

[Speilmen230]

that is certainly something to look at as well. They aren't just wrestlers anymore, they are PR reps for the WWE and they are products, so a lot more goes into deciding who is face and heel and the gimmicks.

[JacobLovesYou]

articles related to Miz being considered, then dropped from title feud

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/245485-report-future-booking-plans-for-the-miz
http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/249157-the-miz-being-blamed-for-low-survivor-series-numbers
http://www.wrestlezone.com/editorials/249181-whats-bothering-me-hoganbischoff-the-miz-x-division?start=2

[JacobLovesYou]

that is certainly something to look at as well. They aren't just wrestlers anymore, they are PR reps for the WWE and they are products, so a lot more goes into deciding who is face and heel and the gimmicks.

yeah sheamus is a really unique character right now. for better or worse, he's like a mixture of hornswaggle, cena, and HHH. with that mix, i would think vince sees a lot of potential for sheamus as a face.

[Speilmen230]

Report: WWE "Kayfabe" Shirts To Be Pulled Soon
by Justin LaBar
February 27, 2012


Last week we reported about the new line of t-shirts WWE released that featured terms such as "jobber."

A lot of talk around WWE is that these shirts may be pulled soon and no longer be sold according to F4Wonline.com. Many within the company, especially veterans, are unhappy about those industry terms being used for commercial purposes.

It is also said that many are also surprised that the shirts were approved by all of the people in WWE they had to be approved by and never got nixed.

It's expected according to the report that the shirts will soon no longer be available.

[mwat9050]

articles related to Miz being considered, then dropped from title feud

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/245485-report-future-booking-plans-for-the-miz
http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/249157-the-miz-being-blamed-for-low-survivor-series-numbers
http://www.wrestlezone.com/editorials/249181-whats-bothering-me-hoganbischoff-the-miz-x-division?start=2


Gotcha!! Ya I head something about Miz getting blamed for the SS buyrate, which is utter stupidity. I didn't realize he was gonna get a program with Punk. Thankfully, he didnt. Miz has been brutal the past 8-9 months. Some his fault, some not.

[mwat9050]

I mean what's the point guys? He "gets" the business is you listen to Meltzer... :lol:lol

That's like saying you understand sports because you sometimes listen to Colin Cowherd...


Hahaha. It was a joke- it was what Rock said on his twitter account.

However, I do have a pretty good understanding of the buisness, as well as the majority of you guys that post in here. But its not cause of the Meltzer show. hahah

[mwat9050]

Well, the Rock doesn't need wrestling.

From a workers stand point, the Rock is somebody who was made by the wrestling business. Some people take offsense when people seem for forget where they came from. A lot of great workers layed down and took beating to get the Rock over and help make him a huge star.

Personally, I don't think Rock v. Cena is something to complain about. But, I can easily understand somebody that tours for years on end, being frustrated. It's not a one way street, but it could be a valid point.

Again, I don't pay much attention to the comings and goings of the Rock, but he hasn't been actively wrestling for years. Assuming Cena wins, I'm sure this will be a non-story. I'm just guessing we're going to get something similar to Rock/Hogan. Basically allow the fans make the match a classic before anyone even takes a bump.


I agree. But lets not forget...Rock put over WAY more guys then most top guys ever had. (I'm not a huge Rock mark either).

I can see the workers viewpoint, to a certain extent. Its gotta feel like bullshit to work all year, and have him come in and get the main event, but I'm sure the "disgruntled" worker is a midcarder at best, and is just pissed off. Who knows tho?

Has Rock earned the right to come back for short programs here and there? I'm sure some feel he does, and some don't.

[JRS1386]

Jericho vs Punk is going to be amazing in every sense of a feud

[K3nTaKa0s]

- Following injuries to several talent members such as Randy Orton, Mark Henry and Wade Barrett, as well as close calls to Miz and R-Truth, Vince McMahon has issued an order for any talent working with John Cena not to take any "unneeded" risks in their match.

Vince is stressing safety as he has WrestleMania's success largely invested in Cena's match with the Rock and anything forcing Cena off the card would be disastrous. As the Rock won't be working any matches, the concern falls mostly at Cena's feet and Vince is making sure that the roster understands they have to be as safe as possible with Cena.

Credit: WrestleZone

[mwat9050]

- Following injuries to several talent members such as Randy Orton, Mark Henry and Wade Barrett, as well as close calls to Miz and R-Truth, Vince McMahon has issued an order for any talent working with John Cena not to take any "unneeded" risks in their match.

Vince is stressing safety as he has WrestleMania's success largely invested in Cena's match with the Rock and anything forcing Cena off the card would be disastrous. As the Rock won't be working any matches, the concern falls mostly at Cena's feet and Vince is making sure that the roster understands they have to be as safe as possible with Cena.

Credit: WrestleZone


Makes sense. They would be screwed if Cena couldnt perform at WM

[crashintonickdm]

cena gets booed so much.

but hes the next stone cold

[Rodey]

Rosa needs a dick in her.

[DoDaFoo]

I love that after 10 years Jericho has gone back to doing Walls of Jericho the old way.

[Speilmen230]

This Punk/Jericho started off better than i could have ever imagined. That exchange between them was fucking incredible.

[Rodey]

Damn Rock looks good.

n/h

[JRS1386]

So I stopped watching after the Punk/Bryan match. Did I miss anything?

[K3nTaKa0s]

Fuck Piper.

[Rodey]

Good promo.

[DoDaFoo]

Rock is amazing. Great promo.

[CrashDMB237]

This. Is. Awesome.

[JRS1386]

So I turned back on the feed and the Rock is scorching Cena. Do you think there will ever be a point where it will be too much and actually hurt Cena and the company in the long run?

[JRS1386]

I hope he doesn't ruin this

Cena said penis :eek

[mwat9050]

Damn- Cena kinda owned Rock there

[DoDaFoo]

Damn- Cena kinda owned Rock there

Disagree. Same old shit from Cena. I love how he only talks like a gangster around Rock like it makes him tougher or something.

[rubrink]

Yup, glad I'm not the only one who thought so. I dont like Cena at all and love the Rock, but I was really let down by the Rock's promo, but can't believe Cena's awesomeness the past two weeks

[JRS1386]

I wouldn't say Cena owned Rock, but he definitely held his own and cut off some of the Rock's steam for about a second. The Rock is one of, if not the, greatest of all times in cutting promos

[mwat9050]

Yup, glad I'm not the only one who thought so. I dont like Cena at all and love the Rock, but I was really let down by the Rock's promo, but can't believe Cena's awesomeness the past two weeks

Couldnt agree anymore. Rock was flat today, and Cena roasted him. I hate Cena, as well, but hes been great the last 2 weeks. Somebody just said "Same ol Cena shit". False- It was the same ol Rock shit there. It was not one of his best promos at all.

[rubrink]

The Rock is no doubt the greatest promo cutter of all time, but I felt this one was weak for him. Didnt seem to have the rhythm at all.

[gocubsgo3822]

Rocks bored me will watch cenas tomorrow

[bradshaw06]

i thought the rock was pretty good until cena left and he started stumbling over his words and repeating himself.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Cena needed the "win".

[Nick11dx]

so word is that when cena mentioned that he didn't have his notes for his promos on his sweatbands and said something along the line of nice tattoos. Does the rock really keep notes on his arm?

[mwat9050]

i thought the rock was pretty good until cena left and he started stumbling over his words and repeating himself.


Yea- he was pretty rattled there

[DoDaFoo]

I just liked what Rock had to say tonight a lot more. I will say though that I absolutely detest Cena, so my opinion is extremely biased.

[Speilmen230]

THIS is how every raw should be. My lord this raw is sooo action packed. There is no wasted time and no filler. This is how i remember it being as a kid.

[JRS1386]

I feel a lot of what happened in that promo from when Cena's music hit til the end was planned in a way

[rubrink]

It probably was. I am pretty sure the notes call-out was.

[mwat9050]

Punk/Y2J is already outstanding

[Speilmen230]

Punk/Y2J is already outstanding

Their exchange was riveting for me, it was just so damn good.

[Jsc6545]

raw was amazing tonight. thoroughly enjoyed it way more than the last few weeks

[hbktonyb]

Great Raw tonight. Cena and Rock were solid.

[Snapple2788]

Rock knew the hype and seemed a bit nervous IMO...Great Raw though

[Speilmen230]

That is the way a Raw should be run. Absolutely amazing from start to finish. There wasn't 1 wasted spot on the show, everything served a purpose. I loved every minute of it.

[YankeesDMB41]

Best Overall Raw in a while...see what happens when you let good tag-teams go at it?!!?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKoOcemEl3w

funniest video in a while as well

[JacobLovesYou]

Overall a good RAW

I wish Rocks promo was about more then twitter, catchphrases, and chants though. Cena was the best part of it. Rock/Cena needs to get personal and physical, cause Punk/Jericho will win the promo war. I was hoping tonights RAW would end with Rock and Cena brawling and referees coming out to separate them.

[Speilmen230]

Overall a good RAW

I wish Rocks promo was about more then twitter, catchphrases, and chants though. Cena was the best part of it. Rock/Cena needs to get personal and physical, cause Punk/Jericho will win the promo war. I was hoping tonights RAW would end with Rock and Cena brawling and referees coming out to separate them.

Them brawling and being pulled apart needs to be the go home raw, this needs to be a very slow build. Another confrontation next week, then them getting into one another's faces and getting a little physical pushing and prodding but not exploding. Then they brawl for 30 seconds and get held apart as the go home image for WM.

[crush0617]

Very good RAW over all. Punk/Jericho was terrific. Cena has showed something the past couple of weeks. Its nice to see good serious promos from him

[hbktonyb]

I'm already a Cena fan but when this feud is over I think he'll be one of my favorites.

[CrashDMB237]

Last night's Punk/Jericho encounter was everything I thought Punk/Jericho was going to be back in January. They need to keep this going strong. Last night's Raw was great. The Rock was phenomenal til that ending bit. I liked that he was being Dwayne for the first half of that promo too.

[JacobLovesYou]

Cena has been good the last two weeks. I was hoping for more from the Rock. Punk/Jericho & Taker/HHH made you care about their match in their respective 10 mins. They're letting Cena bring more to the table so far.

[hbktonyb]

Last night made me look forward to 'Mania even more, and I"ll probably buy it for the 2nd straight year.

[Crush086]

so word is that when cena mentioned that he didn't have his notes for his promos on his sweatbands and said something along the line of nice tattoos. Does the rock really keep notes on his arm?
I believe he had something written on his wrist last night. During the beginning of the promo the camera caught a glimpse of his wrist and it looked like there was something scribbled on it, but I think it wore off as the promo went on.

[Speilmen230]

What The Rock's Arm Said, HHH Appears For Raw Live Crowd
by Nick Paglino
February 27, 2012


The RockSource: PWInsider.com

What The Rock's Arm Said

According to a fan report, The Rock had the following written on his arm for his Raw promo tonight:

KRS to KPB
Innovator - Camo
2 reasons
Call out

HHH Appears For Raw Live Crowd

It's being reported that after The Miz lost to John Cena on Raw tonight, during a commercial break, Miz pitched a fit and demanded that a WWE official give him a match at WrestleMania. This prompted Triple H to come out, crotch chop The Miz, and then pedigree him.

[Speilmen230]

Found this on WZ's Boards. I thought it was an interesting take to what i find to be very entertaining and has really freshened up the WWE gimmick and promo scene:

So since CM Punk promo WWE started there so called "Reality Era".

After that :

Dolph Ziggler started wearing trunks with #Heel written on them, now people know that a heel is a person who is "acting" as a bad guy.

CM Punk talked about how WWE is always behind big guys which was not true and now it has made an image in many people's mind that every wrestler who is big is pushed because of his size and they are all bad wrestlers.

CM Punk buried Alberto Del Rio when he said he has no mic skills. Now people won't look at Alberto the same way since he debuted.

Chris Jericho saying Miz started talking slowly after him so now people know that Chris Jericho just acts when he talks slowly.

And John Cena exposing Rock's "notes" written on the wrist. Now many people think Rock is overrated on the mic and he has always used "scripted notes" to cut a promo throughout his career.

Exposing that everything is fake is bad for WWE.

What do you think ? Is it bad for WWE or is it ok for WWE to expose things like this on TV?

[Crush086]

Supposedly WWE is trying to get more people behind Cena, so they're doing things like having notes visible for Cena to take potshots at. Same with him blowing Eve off, from what I've read, and it's totally plausible, they fear that Cena will be booed out of the building come April 1, so they're trying whatever they can to get people on his side.

I honestly doubt The Rock would need to write notes, but then again considering his time away maybe, just maybe he did.

[bartender_man]

Supposedly WWE is trying to get more people behind Cena, so they're doing things like having notes visible for Cena to take potshots at. Same with him blowing Eve off, from what I've read, and it's totally plausible, they fear that Cena will be booed out of the building come April 1, so they're trying whatever they can to get people on his side.

I honestly doubt The Rock would need to write notes, but then again considering his time away maybe, just maybe he did.


No matter what the E does, Cena is getting booed out of the building April 1. Even if they turn Rock heel, Cena gets booed out. It's in the Rock's backyard and people will always worship the Rock. Cena is just a fucking joke despite a couple of solid promos of recent. After this match, Cena needs to take some time off or change character in a major way (aka-heel turn) Because we are all sick to death of Super Cena. In fact, if Cena wins clean at Mania, I'm done watching WWE for good

[Speilmen230]

No matter what the E does, Cena is getting booed out of the building April 1. Even if they turn Rock heel, Cena gets booed out. It's in the Rock's backyard and people will always worship the Rock. Cena is just a fucking joke despite a couple of solid promos of recent. After this match, Cena needs to take some time off or change character in a major way (aka-heel turn) Because we are all sick to death of Super Cena. In fact, if Cena wins clean at Mania, I'm done watching WWE for good

Well be seeing ya Monday April 2nd.

[Speilmen230]

I know it has been said a million times but Dolph is so damn good. He oozes charisma and talent. I see him and Cody Rhodes as Main Eventers this time next year.

[Rodey]

No matter how hard the 'E tries, they're not going to prevent Cena from getting booed out of the building at WrestleMania. How did they not know that from when they first booked this angle?

[crush0617]

I don't understand why the WWE builds guys up like Dolph (who has all the tools to be a main eventer) but, than won't pull the trigger on putting the title on him and than throw him back to the midcard.

Also the treatment of Mark Henry baffles me. He was a great monster heel champion now he is losing matches in under a minute

[Speilmen230]

No matter how hard the 'E tries, they're not going to prevent Cena from getting booed out of the building at WrestleMania. How did they not know that from when they first booked this angle?

I completely agree. Cena is gonna get booed out of the state of Florida by everyone in the stadium. No way the kiddies overpower the 18-30 year old guys who are going to re-live the attitude era with the rock being there.

[Speilmen230]

I don't understand why the WWE builds guys up like Dolph (who has all the tools to be a main eventer) but, than won't pull the trigger on putting the title on him and than throw him back to the midcard.

Also the treatment of Mark Henry baffles me. He was a great monster heel champion now he is losing matches in under a minute

Dolph and Cody are by far the most ready guys for the next World Championship run but they continue to not pull the trigger on them.

[Crush086]

No matter what the E does, Cena is getting booed out of the building April 1. Even if they turn Rock heel, Cena gets booed out. It's in the Rock's backyard and people will always worship the Rock. Cena is just a fucking joke despite a couple of solid promos of recent. After this match, Cena needs to take some time off or change character in a major way (aka-heel turn) Because we are all sick to death of Super Cena. In fact, if Cena wins clean at Mania, I'm done watching WWE for good

I think there may be a chance he doesn't win at WM. I know most people are banking on the fact that Rock isn't always around, that he's known for putting people over, and that it wouldn't benefit Cena to lose at WM, but they could still make something of it and continue the feud and have it evolve further.

The other thing to consider is that the stakes aren't quite the same. Remember back on Rock's birthday or whenever it was that Cena said he'd put the title on the line, but CM Punk appears to be the champ headed into WM28. Now there's no worries about the Rock taking the title and never defending it, and continuing the storyline will keep Punk/Jericho available to feud and (in theory) would keep Cena away from the title for a good bit longer.

[Speilmen230]

CM Punk Trashes TNA Wrestler, Calls Him "Absoutely The Worst"
by Nick Paglino
February 28, 2012

CM Punk During a new interview conducted for WISX FM in Philadelphia, PA, WWE Champion CM Punk had the following to say during a Q & A when asked who is least favorite opponent is:

"Good question. I always get who's your favorite opponent. This is great because I enjoy talking trash My least favorite opponent; does anyone even remember Elijah Burke? Oh he was terrible. He is absolutely the worst. He is absolutely the worst. Talk about a diva. Man oh man, sorry if you liked him."

If you don't remember why then i will refresh your memory: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3W3Na9IdISM

[gocubsgo3822]

Wrestlemania is going to be so awesome..

Cena has impressed me a lot lately

[Speilmen230]

This Wrestlemania already feels 10 times bigger and more important than the last 4 or 5.

[gocubsgo3822]

I mean there is just so much they can do with it.. Going to be very interesting..

I think Rock will lose.. But that will suck

[Speilmen230]

Rock losing is what is good for the business. That is the ultimate passing of the torch.

Cena has beaten JBL, HHH, HBK, Edge, Big Show (x2), & Batista at WM. If he beats Rock at WM, he will cement himself as THE guy.

[Speilmen230]

I am re-watching and Rock was definitely using the notes on his wrist. He looked down at them several times while the fans were chanting.

[gocubsgo3822]

Rock losing is what is good for the business. That is the ultimate passing of the torch.

Cena has beaten JBL, HHH, HBK, Edge, Big Show (x2), & Batista at WM. If he beats Rock at WM, he will cement himself as THE guy.

HAs he lost?

[Speilmen230]

As he lost?

What...?

Edit: Ah got ya. Yes he has. Miz last year and Randy Orton.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Rock losing is what is good for the business. That is the ultimate passing of the torch.

Cena has beaten JBL, HHH, HBK, Edge, Big Show (x2), & Batista at WM. If he beats Rock at WM, he will cement himself as THE guy.

Cena's been the guy for quite some time.

[gocubsgo3822]

What...?

Sorry, has cena ever lost at WM?

[Speilmen230]

Cena's been the guy for quite some time.

Yes he has, but this will be his WM X-8 moment. Rock had the torch passed to him from Hogan, and now Rock will pass the torch to Cena.

[gocubsgo3822]

How did i forget about Miz... I watched that... Wow. That mauin event was so shitty

[Speilmen230]

How did i forget about Miz... I watched that... Wow. That mauin event was so shitty

Yes it was. That main event was not good. Very underwhelming.

[gocubsgo3822]

So Cena has never fought taker?

[Crush086]

Rock losing is what is good for the business. That is the ultimate passing of the torch.

Cena has beaten JBL, HHH, HBK, Edge, Big Show (x2), & Batista at WM. If he beats Rock at WM, he will cement himself as THE guy.
But see, I think the disconnect, and the big problem that WWE has is that regardless of the outcome, the next day it's all the same.

Hogan/Rock back in the day was a great match, and they actually achieved with them what they want with Cena/Rock. Hogan was supposed to be the bad guy, but was cheered for the night of the match. Rock won, called Hogan back, they celebrated together and that was that. You could "feel" the significance of the win, if you will.

But now, Cena/Rock won't have that same magic. Cena is the good guy, and will be booed to all hell come April 1. There will be no momentum swing with Cena being cheered and Rocky being booed. The Rock is supposed to be the bad guy I suppose, but there won't be anyone to boo him in Miami, and as such Cena will be at a disadvantage all night.

I don't see any standing ovations with a Cena win, and I would guess he'd be booed even further if he did beat the Rock. Hell, maybe we'd see some WCW nWo action with trash thrown in the ring lol.

Now, maybe down the line after this WM in maybe a sort of vindication next year at 29 things might be different, and it'd be a better time to pass the torch then. But I don't think the feeling is right for WM28 to do any sort of passing the torch. Besides, Cena can't possibly go any higher in the company unless he offs HHH and takes his place.

[Doors Allan Coe]

But see, I think the disconnect, and the big problem that WWE has is that regardless of the outcome, the next day it's all the same.

Hogan/Rock back in the day was a great match, and they actually achieved with them what they want with Cena/Rock. Hogan was supposed to be the bad guy, but was cheered for the night of the match. Rock won, called Hogan back, they celebrated together and that was that. You could "feel" the significance of the win, if you will.

But now, Cena/Rock won't have that same magic. Cena is the good guy, and will be booed to all hell come April 1. There will be no momentum swing with Cena being cheered and Rocky being booed. The Rock is supposed to be the bad guy I suppose, but there won't be anyone to boo him in Miami, and as such Cena will be at a disadvantage all night.

I don't see any standing ovations with a Cena win, and I would guess he'd be booed even further if he did beat the Rock. Hell, maybe we'd see some WCW nWo action with trash thrown in the ring lol.

Now, maybe down the line after this WM in maybe a sort of vindication next year at 29 things might be different, and it'd be a better time to pass the torch then. But I don't think the feeling is right for WM28 to do any sort of passing the torch. Besides, Cena can't possibly go any higher in the company unless he offs HHH and takes his place.

I think that's all part of the plan.

Remember how great the Hart/Austin double turn was at WM? Not to be optimistic, but I fully expect the WWE to do a great job booking this match.

I haven't watched in months and regularly in years and I'm planning on catching Wrestlemania this year.

[K3nTaKa0s]

The 2/27 edition of Raw did a hardly stellar 3.1 rating for the return of The Rock. The show did hours of 3.11 and 3.16 so the rating rose in hour two. Unfortunately, the show still lost viewers as hour one averaged 4.7 million of them while hour two averaged 4.6. Overall, the show averaged 4,650,000 viewers.

Source: PWInsider

[JRS1386]

It takes TNA what, a month or so to get that many viewers?

[K3nTaKa0s]

It takes TNA what, a month or so to get that many viewers?

You don't know shit. Nice try.

WWE has been around how much longer than TNA?

[JRS1386]

You don't know shit. Nice try.

WWE has been around how much longer than TNA?

You take insults way to literally.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Sorry about that. I have no control of my message board emotions.

[JRS1386]

It's cool, broski.

[Speilmen230]

we have had this discussion before too, the ratings system is outdated. I am not defending WWE for not hyping his return but i am certainly saying i think more than 4.6 million people tuned in for last night.

[K3nTaKa0s]

MORE ratings news:

WWE Raw drew a 3.14 rating with the overrun segments included. The initial 15-minute overrun featuring The Rock and John Cena drew a 3.5 rating, and the additional six minutes that followed drew a 3.3 rating.


Source: PW.net

[mwat9050]

Before I say this, let me state that I am a HUGE CM Punk fan. He's pretty much the only reason I began to watch regularly again last year. I loved his SEC angle, and I thought he was an unbelievable heel. I went so far as to download HD rips of every raw from 2011 that he was on, and edit his clips onto DVDs. I loved the New Nexus stuff.

But......is it just me, or is anybody else have a hard time buying half of the shit he's been saying lately. Especially yesterdays promo. He claims that he's "Original" and never ripped anybody off. Well....thats completely false.

First off.....the best in the world gimmick was stolen from Bryan Danielson well before the Y2J gimmick. The 'GTS' finisher was stolen from a Japenese wrestler, whose name slips my mind currently. The thing he does with his wrists before matches was stolen from MMA legen Wanderlie Silva. His entrance, in which he drops to a knee and "grabs a grain of dirt" was stolen from the movie Gladiator. He even stole a line from MMA fighter Mirko Crocop last week on commentary with "Left foot hospital, right foot cemetary". Fuck- he even used a Lady Gaga lyric last night. So I have a hard time taking him seriously when he claims he doesnt rip anybody off, and is completely original.

As I've read in this thread before, most of you agree that he has been watered down for the past 6 months. At times, it appears that he is clearly just speaking the horrible, cheesy lines that the writers give to him, even though he claims in interviews outside of WWE, that he says what he wants. I understand that he can't pull the shit he has in the past, which is grossly unfortunate, because thats what helped make him, but it's a little tiresome to hear him say "I say any or do anything I want", and then.....he doesnt.

[mwat9050]

I think that's all part of the plan.

Remember how great the Hart/Austin double turn was at WM? Not to be optimistic, but I fully expect the WWE to do a great job booking this match.

I haven't watched in months and regularly in years and I'm planning on catching Wrestlemania this year.


Lets hope so. I heard the other week that they have 2 finishes so far, that they are going back and forth on.

By the way, the Austin/Hart double switch was by far one of the best moments, and best booked, ever.

[Speilmen230]

Before I say this, let me state that I am a HUGE CM Punk fan. He's pretty much the only reason I began to watch regularly again last year. I loved his SEC angle, and I thought he was an unbelievable heel. I went so far as to download HD rips of every raw from 2011 that he was on, and edit his clips onto DVDs. I loved the New Nexus stuff.

But......is it just me, or is anybody else have a hard time buying half of the shit he's been saying lately. Especially yesterdays promo. He claims that he's "Original" and never ripped anybody off. Well....thats completely false.

First off.....the best in the world gimmick was stolen from Bryan Danielson well before the Y2J gimmick. The 'GTS' finisher was stolen from a Japenese wrestler, whose name slips my mind currently. The thing he does with his wrists before matches was stolen from MMA legen Wanderlie Silva. His entrance, in which he drops to a knee and "grabs a grain of dirt" was stolen from the movie Gladiator. He even stole a line from MMA fighter Mirko Crocop last week on commentary with "Left foot hospital, right foot cemetary". Fuck- he even used a Lady Gaga lyric last night. So I have a hard time taking him seriously when he claims he doesnt rip anybody off, and is completely original.

As I've read in this thread before, most of you agree that he has been watered down for the past 6 months. At times, it appears that he is clearly just speaking the horrible, cheesy lines that the writers give to him, even though he claims in interviews outside of WWE, that he says what he wants. I understand that he can't pull the shit he has in the past, which is grossly unfortunate, because thats what helped make him, but it's a little tiresome to hear him say "I say any or do anything I want", and then.....he doesnt.

I think you are taking his gimmick and his on screen persona a little too seriously. Every wrestler now a days takes things from the people that taught and inspired them. Hell Y2J got the codebreaker from old Japan Tapes that he collected over the years. Stone Cold got the name Stone Cold from a waitress who told him to drink he coffee before it got Stone Cold. Triple H used to wear the handlebar mustache as a tribute to Lemmy from MotorHead and Harley Race. Every talent now a days has 'ripped off' a past wrestler or celebrity or figure of inspiration. That is the way it works. Hogan supposedly got a lot of his schtick from Superstar Billy Graham.

I am perfectly ok with him taking from others and turning it into his own. Hell Sting's character was a complete and total ripoff of The Crow. I think as long as they take from good source material and tweak it to make it their own, then why not. Id rather have interesting character's like Punk who takes obscure pop culture stuff and adds it to his gimmick then guys who are cookie cutter characters and aren't original at all.

[mwat9050]

I think you are taking his gimmick and his on screen persona a little too seriously. Every wrestler now a days takes things from the people that taught and inspired them. Hell Y2J got the codebreaker from old Japan Tapes that he collected over the years. Stone Cold got the name Stone Cold from a waitress who told him to drink he coffee before it got Stone Cold. Triple H used to wear the handlebar mustache as a tribute to Lemmy from MotorHead and Harley Race. Every talent now a days has 'ripped off' a past wrestler or celebrity or figure of inspiration. That is the way it works. Hogan supposedly got a lot of his schtick from Superstar Billy Graham.

I am perfectly ok with him taking from others and turning it into his own. Hell Sting's character was a complete and total ripoff of The Crow. I think as long as they take from good source material and tweak it to make it their own, then why not. Id rather have interesting character's like Punk who takes obscure pop culture stuff and adds it to his gimmick then guys who are cookie cutter characters and aren't original at all.

I completely agree with what you're saying. No doubt. But Punk is supposed to be this "reality" type guy now, and to persistantly say hes original is a little silly. I get that everybody rips everybody off. Happens in music, movies and television shows. And not so much ripped off, but a big influence, as you mentioned.

And again, Im a huge Punk fan, but I guess I liked his heel work better, and am just looking for a reason to bitch. Just like HBK- I loved his heel work the most, especially in 97-98, and complained about some of the stuff he's done in recent memory(not all of it though).

I did enjoy the promo with Punk/Y2J ALOT though. This angle is the most riveting to me than any in a long time, except for the "Summer of Punk 2".

[mwat9050]

Speilman- by the way- did you watch the newer Stone Cold DVD in which he discusses the names they were going to give him, before his wife made the stone cold comment? Unreal shit. One of them......fang mcfrost. Insane that some of these people in that company get paid.

[Speilmen230]

Speilman- by the way- did you watch the newer Stone Cold DVD in which he discusses the names they were going to give him, before his wife made the stone cold comment? Unreal shit. One of them......fang mcfrost. Insane that some of these people in that company get paid.

I have not watched the dvd but i have heard it is an awesome set. In Jericho's book he had the list of names they came up with for the walls of jericho. Jericho turned them all down and came up with his own list. I don't recall any off hand but they were pretty ridiculous. Sounded like a 10 year old came up with them using the pre-set announcer names on a video game.

[mwat9050]

I have not watched the dvd but i have heard it is an awesome set. In Jericho's book he had the list of names they came up with for the walls of jericho. Jericho turned them all down and came up with his own list. I don't recall any off hand but they were pretty ridiculous. Sounded like a 10 year old came up with them using the pre-set announcer names on a video game.

Hahaha. Thats great. Yea man- check out that dvd. Very good. My only gripe is that they bleep out Austin's swears every other minute. This shouldnt have been a dvd for kids, so there is no reason for the bleeps. It ruins it at times. I believe another name they came up for Stone Cold was "Ice Dagger". Fucking brutal.

[Speilmen230]

They should have released it as a TV 14 release. There is no reason to censor it. If they want to censor it, release two versions. One edited and one UnCut version.

[Pablo23]

Here are two funny videos:

Jericho gets alot of glowsticks throw @ him in England I think
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NcbULvaRss&feature=related

Wrestlemania Nintendo Commerical
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=oT6o0Pq2dHo

[Doors Allan Coe]

Before I say this, let me state that I am a HUGE CM Punk fan. He's pretty much the only reason I began to watch regularly again last year. I loved his SEC angle, and I thought he was an unbelievable heel. I went so far as to download HD rips of every raw from 2011 that he was on, and edit his clips onto DVDs. I loved the New Nexus stuff.

But......is it just me, or is anybody else have a hard time buying half of the shit he's been saying lately. Especially yesterdays promo. He claims that he's "Original" and never ripped anybody off. Well....thats completely false.

First off.....the best in the world gimmick was stolen from Bryan Danielson well before the Y2J gimmick. The 'GTS' finisher was stolen from a Japenese wrestler, whose name slips my mind currently. The thing he does with his wrists before matches was stolen from MMA legen Wanderlie Silva. His entrance, in which he drops to a knee and "grabs a grain of dirt" was stolen from the movie Gladiator. He even stole a line from MMA fighter Mirko Crocop last week on commentary with "Left foot hospital, right foot cemetary". Fuck- he even used a Lady Gaga lyric last night. So I have a hard time taking him seriously when he claims he doesnt rip anybody off, and is completely original.

As I've read in this thread before, most of you agree that he has been watered down for the past 6 months. At times, it appears that he is clearly just speaking the horrible, cheesy lines that the writers give to him, even though he claims in interviews outside of WWE, that he says what he wants. I understand that he can't pull the shit he has in the past, which is grossly unfortunate, because thats what helped make him, but it's a little tiresome to hear him say "I say any or do anything I want", and then.....he doesnt.

KENTA is the name you're looking for.

[mwat9050]

They should have released it as a TV 14 release. There is no reason to censor it. If they want to censor it, release two versions. One edited and one UnCut version.


Sadly enough, it is rated "TV 14", yet they still censored it.

[JRS1386]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=fvwp&v=qi7RgBU1nlE

[K3nTaKa0s]

The preliminary estimate for the WWE Royal Rumble pay-per-view is 438,000 buys, down from the 446,000 buys in 2011, and 462,000 buys in 2010.

-------

WWE is advertising the Money in the Bank pay-per-view again after removing the event from some pay-per-view promotional material. The July 15 show is now scheduled to take place in Phoenix, Arizona.


Source: PW.net

[K3nTaKa0s]

Very, very solid Impact tonight. They're rolling along.

[Doors Allan Coe]

Very, very solid Impact tonight. They're rolling along.

Too bad they wasted so many years driving casual fans away.

Hopefully they come up with some blockbuster angle to draw some fans back. Maybe another "one night stand" against RAW would do the trick?

[CrashDMB237]

If that Impact was solid, I'm sorry, I just don't get TNA. It's not even worth discussing because it ends in the same shit every time, just with different wording. I don't like TNA, I see no redeeming qualities, and your opinion differs. That's all it comes down to I guess. I just... don't get it.

[Speilmen230]

MITB Status For WrestleMania, WWE Network Problems
by Justin LaBar
March 02, 2012

WWE Network Launch

The New York Post has a new article up looking at the WWE Network launch. The Post reports that WWE has yet to sign a single cable or satellite deal with providers to carry the Network. WWE has also been lacking on hiring experienced cable executives as they were initially expected to hire 200 employees including a general manager for the Network.

One cable executive told The Post:

"WWE has the programming and marketing muscle, but they just have no one with cable experience who can execute for them."

Gerri Dinini, senior Vice President at media buyers RJ Palmer told The Post that a whole channel of WWE content might be a long shot:

"Given the content issues, I think a whole channel would be a stretch. It is very limited in who it reaches."

MITB Status For WrestleMania 28

Money In The Bank will be taking place as a pay-per-view this July and F4Wonline.com reports it will not be a match at WrestleMania 28.

[CrashDMB237]

The internet is so damn funny...

[Rodey]

MITB is better off as a PPV anyway. I'm completely fine with that. One of the best PPV's.

[crush0617]

MITB is better off as a PPV anyway. I'm completely fine with that. One of the best PPV's.

Hell it was the best wrestling PPV of 2011

[Speilmen230]

Hell it was the best wrestling PPV of 2011

Agreed. Chi-Town really brought the atmosphere and i think that helped the workers out.

[Doors Allan Coe]

MITB Status For WrestleMania, WWE Network Problems
by Justin LaBar
March 02, 2012

WWE Network Launch

The New York Post has a new article up looking at the WWE Network launch. The Post reports that WWE has yet to sign a single cable or satellite deal with providers to carry the Network. WWE has also been lacking on hiring experienced cable executives as they were initially expected to hire 200 employees including a general manager for the Network.

One cable executive told The Post:

"WWE has the programming and marketing muscle, but they just have no one with cable experience who can execute for them."

Gerri Dinini, senior Vice President at media buyers RJ Palmer told The Post that a whole channel of WWE content might be a long shot:

"Given the content issues, I think a whole channel would be a stretch. It is very limited in who it reaches."


Well, hopefully the WWE will take this as constructive and try and contract and retain people with cable experience. I was under the impression from the presentation at WM last year that they planned on also featuring non-wrestling content.

For some reason I pictured them airing the old Morton Downey Jr. show in syndication.

[CrashDMB237]

I somehow find it hard to believe that there isn't enough content to fill a network. Not every hour of programming has to be live or new. There are live event possibilities, original productions, reality shows, and not to mention a library full of wrestling dating back to god only knows when in god only knows how many circuits.

[K3nTaKa0s]

If that Impact was solid, I'm sorry, I just don't get TNA. It's not even worth discussing because it ends in the same shit every time, just with different wording. I don't like TNA, I see no redeeming qualities, and your opinion differs. That's all it comes down to I guess. I just... don't get it.

Alrighty.

[JRS1386]

TNA had 1.333 million viewers down from the 1.582 million viewers they had the previous weekends according to my search of tvbythenumbers

[K3nTaKa0s]

Worst rating of the year.

[K3nTaKa0s]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6GcrIBhBWA

[CrashDMB237]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6GcrIBhBWA

Jesus. This video is so sad. It's crazy thinking about how amazing he used to be. Now he's one oxy away from death.

TNA had 1.333 million viewers down from the 1.582 million viewers they had the previous weekends according to my search of tvbythenumbers

Excuse me, we dont acknowledge bad TNA ratings here. Only WWE.

[JRS1386]

How is he not in jail?

[bartender_man]

Hell it was the best wrestling PPV of 2011

It was incredible, the only PPV from 2011 worth having in a collection... To bad the E has gone so far downhill again since then. Ditching Punk's image of being an angry rebel is the worst move they could have made. Now he is just another guy out there...

[K3nTaKa0s]

How is WWE going to draw 800 people at a house show that featured CM Punk, Chris Jericho, and John Cena?

[bartender_man]

How is WWE going to draw 800 people at a house show that featured CM Punk, Chris Jericho, and John Cena?


Where was this?

[K3nTaKa0s]

Canada, maybe?

[CrashDMB237]

Where is that even reported?

[bartender_man]

Canada, maybe?

Sounds more realistic like that was TNA not WWE. ;)

[keithcoldroses]

I'd love for Kurt Angle to come back to the WWE. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2sZIvrb0Y One of the best Angle segments.

[bartender_man]

I'd love for Kurt Angle to come back to the WWE. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2sZIvrb0Y One of the best Angle segments.

He was so great in WWE, he looks like crap now though, all these drinking incidents and shit going on. He can obviously still wrestle very well but seems a shell of what he was. Love the old Angle/Lesner fueds in E. Two real superstars unlike today... D Bryan as Champ :lol what a fucking joke :thumbsdow

[CrashDMB237]

This thread is depressing today between Angle and Hardy. They were so amazing back in their prime. Now one is washed up and the other is half dead.

[bartender_man]

For those who don't know, the game signed a four year deal with E..



Source: PWInsider

WWE has published their 10-K report for 2011 and it includes their wrestling contract with Paul Levesque (a/k/a Triple H). The new agreement went into effect January 1, 2012 and expires on March 30, 2016, when he is 46 years old.
Highlights:

* Levesque will be paid a 'Minimum Annual Compensation' of $1 million for each year under contract.

* Levesque will be limited to 180 dates per year, unless both parties mutually agree to extend beyond that number.

* Levesque cannot work or perform in any capacity for any 'martial arts' organization while under contract.

[JacobLovesYou]

Canada, maybe?

they were in ottawa yesterday and this reader review:

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/250717-second-detailed-report-of-33-wwe-house-show-in-ottowa

said between 5000-7000 people in attendance

[mwat9050]

He was so great in WWE, he looks like crap now though, all these drinking incidents and shit going on. He can obviously still wrestle very well but seems a shell of what he was. Love the old Angle/Lesner fueds in E. Two real superstars unlike today... D Bryan as Champ :lol what a fucking joke :thumbsdow


Are you serious?

[K3nTaKa0s]

they were in ottawa yesterday and this reader review:

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/250717-second-detailed-report-of-33-wwe-house-show-in-ottowa

said between 5000-7000 people in attendance

Wrong show.

[JacobLovesYou]

what show was it?

[K3nTaKa0s]

March 2nd.

[CrashDMB237]

I can't find a single attendance number anywhere for that show. Not even a fan account of how many people were there. Where did you see that number?

[Speilmen230]

i am getting really excited for the next 4 weeks. If the next 4 Raw's are as good as last week's then we are in for one hell of a buildup to arguably the most top heavy WM in a long long time.

[crush0617]

This thread is depressing today between Angle and Hardy. They were so amazing back in their prime. Now one is washed up and the other is half dead.

Completely agree. There was a time where Hardy was the most over wrestler in the business. He means nothing now.

[Speilmen230]

It is quite amazing how far Jeff has fallen since his final WHC run in 2009.

Which is really sad and depressing and i am sure it is really frustrating for the WWE because of how much time and effort they put into getting Jeff into that main event spot. Hatich did a hell of a job working with Jeff and getting him to where he needed to be. CM Punk also did a hell of a job getting Jeff over.

[Rodey]

Hopefully Rock is going to cut an amazing promo tonight.

[Speilmen230]

I'd like to see him come out and distract Cena and make him lose a match then you cue up the war of words. Something different than last week.

[Rodey]

Yeah, I would dig that. Some sort of action involving him would be nice, other than just the back and forth in-ring stuff.

[Speilmen230]

Bo and I were discussing this a week or two ago, do you let Cena and Rock get physical? Brawling, Rock Bottom, AA, Sharpshooter, STF? or do you keep them separated and not let them get physical until WM?

[K3nTaKa0s]

Completely agree. There was a time where Hardy was the most over wrestler in the business. He means nothing now.

I was never a big Hardy fan, but I think TNA would disagree with that. He sells a lot of merchandise.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Bo and I were discussing this a week or two ago, do you let Cena and Rock get physical? Brawling, Rock Bottom, AA, Sharpshooter, STF? or do you keep them separated and not let them get physical until WM?

You gotta keep em separated!

[K3nTaKa0s]

It is quite amazing how far Jeff has fallen since his final WHC run in 2009.

Which is really sad and depressing and i am sure it is really frustrating for the WWE because of how much time and effort they put into getting Jeff into that main event spot. Hatich did a hell of a job working with Jeff and getting him to where he needed to be. CM Punk also did a hell of a job getting Jeff over.

Punk got Hardy over? Uh, no.

[CrashDMB237]

OK, so Jeff Hardy means something to a company that means nothing. Bottom line is he has hit rock bottom. Or he's pretty damn close to it. And considering how amazingly talented he was and how great of an entertainer he was, it's just tough to watch happen right before our eyes. Same with Kurt Angle.

[bartender_man]

Are you serious?


Yes.. What you think he's a big deal? :lol

[bartender_man]

Hopefully Rock is going to cut an amazing promo tonight.

He sucked last week so he better

[K3nTaKa0s]

OK, so Jeff Hardy means something to a company that means nothing. Bottom line is he has hit rock bottom. Or he's pretty damn close to it. And considering how amazingly talented he was and how great of an entertainer he was, it's just tough to watch happen right before our eyes. Same with Kurt Angle.

Another ridiculous comment.

What's exactly happening? Both guys look fine to me, currently.

You don't even watch TNA, so what is this "right before our eyes" bullshit?

[CrashDMB237]

Another ridiculous comment.

What's exactly happening? Both guys look fine to me, currently.

This explains a lot actually.

You don't even watch TNA, so what is this "right before our eyes" bullshit?

I don't? You have no clue what I do.

[crush0617]

From PW Torch

TNA Impact Wrestling on Thursday, March 1 scored a 0.99 rating off a first hour 1.02 rating and second hour 0.97 rating.

Impact peaked at the beginning of the show with a 1.08 rating and steadily dropped off throughout the first hour. Impact then hit a second hour peak with a 1.04 rating at the top of the hour and steadily dropped off again throughout the second hour.

Impact bottomed out with a 0.90 rating in Q8, which was 24 percent below the 2011-Q8 average. It was easily the lowest Q8 rating of 2012 & 2011. The next lowest Q8 rating was a 0.97 in August 2011.

All quarter-hours were below the corresponding 2011 average. The range was 8-24 percent.

[Speilmen230]

Punk got Hardy over? Uh, no.

C'Mon K3nt... it is very simple logic.

He helped keep Hardy a great babyface. Punk was a classic heel during their feud, and a great Heel can make a great babyface and that is what helped to keep Hardy so hot to the fans. Their hatred for Punk fueled their love and support for Jeff. Sort of like Evolution HHH, everyone hated him SOOO much that it didn't matter who he was going up against, they were going to be rooting against HHH.

[Doors Allan Coe]

Another ridiculous comment.

What's exactly happening? Both guys look fine to me, currently.

You don't even watch TNA, so what is this "right before our eyes" bullshit?

I'm not going to get into it, but rest assured they aren't fine.

A lot of the traits they exhibit are pretty worrisome. I'm not accusing them of anything, but from what I've personally witnessed it's clear they have some issues.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Hardy was way over before his program with Punk. He didn't need a program with Punk. I get what you're saying, but Punk needed that feud more than Hardy. The feud with Umaga (I think) did him no favors.

[Speilmen230]

You gotta keep em separated!

see i agree to an extent, but i feel like you need to have some near brawls that get broken up before they even begin. Having them tear off their shirts, get nose to nose, shove back and forth and right as they are about to go at it, have refs and officials come down and hold them back with Triple H coming out as the COO and getting in the middle of it telling them that he can't afford to have them going at it before WM.

War of words is awesome, especially with the way Cena has been the last two weeks, but we need to see some real passion and hatred from them, and it needs to come out in a physical manner.

[Speilmen230]

Hardy was way over before his program with Punk. He didn't need a program with Punk. I get what you're saying, but Punk needed that feud more than Hardy. The feud with Umaga (I think) did him no favors.

I feel like with how they were building up Hardy and what type of guy they were building him up to be, he would always need a great heel to work off. The guy wasn't born with a set of golden pipes, the carolina accent does him no favors and he just isn't very smooth in his promos so he needed someone like Punk to carry a lot of that work load for him. Just my 2 cents, but i felt like his program with Punk is when he was arguably most popular.

[K3nTaKa0s]

Yeah.. I'd expect to have someone in the middle of them, but I don't see anything happening back-and-forth physically.

[Speilmen230]

i feel like them at least TRYING to get physical is a must in order to sell the feud properly.

[K3nTaKa0s]

I can't really disagree with that, but I don't think them getting physical will make or break the number of PPV buys.

[Speilmen230]

I can't really disagree with that, but I don't think them getting physical will make or break the number of PPV buys.

I 100% agree. Regardless of how the feud plays out, i will be buying the PPV, and i think it is safe to say that for just about anyone who is thinking about or already planning on buying it. But in terms of product quality, i think it adds depth to the feud and will get the live audience more jacked up when they see the promo video before the match and it ends on Cena and Rock being held apart with looks of pure hatred on their faces instead of a promo video full of one liners and a war of words.

[Rodey]

Am I the only one that really likes Otunga and think he could become good?

[BAHHHTIWaC]

Am I the only one that really likes Otunga and think he could become good?

I love his gimmick - especially when his mug and outfit match because it's so ridiculous.

Unfortunately, they'll probably cut that gimmick after a while and give him a push as "A Guy Just Trying to Win the Title" like every other star on the roster.

[Speilmen230]

this should be good, hopefully it doesn't fall flat.

[Speilmen230]

i don't get what is going on right now, turning HBK heel?

[Rodey]

Triple threat chants? :lol

[Speilmen230]

i really don't understand where this is going. If it is a triple threat so help me god.

[Speilmen230]

dumb. as. fuck.

[Speilmen230]

If HBK calls it right down the middle then there was no point in having him in there, if he screws someone then there needs to be a payoff and he has to come out of retirement which i don't see happening.

[Rodey]

Swagger can't hit his powerbomb anymore, I don't know why they have him do it still.

[Speilmen230]

Swagger blows, he has regressed quite a bit.

[JRS1386]

The fuck just happened. Go Santino!

[Jsc6545]

did that really just happen?