http://www.cheap-heat.com WWE, TNA, ROH, NJPW - Blogs, Reviews, Top Lists, Indy News & Results Tue, 12 May 2015 23:10:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.1

http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-iron-side-of-the-stories-5715/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-iron-side-of-the-stories-5715/#comments Thu, 07 May 2015 20:46:50 +0000 Gregory Iron Blogs Wrestler Blogs Chris Jericho Global Force Wrestling Owen Hart http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11621 Hello again, and welcome to the cleverly named “Iron Side of the Stories,” where I run through some of the big stories of the week, with my thoughts. Let’s get right to it.   WWE Produced Owen Hart Documentary In The Works Just announced today at www.wrestlingdvdnews.com, on what would have been the 50th birthday […]

Hello again, and welcome to the cleverly named “Iron Side of the Stories,” where I run through some of the big stories of the week, with my thoughts. Let’s get right to it.

WWE Produced Owen Hart Documentary In The Works

Just announced today at www.wrestlingdvdnews.com, on what would have been the 50th birthday of the late Owen Hart, WWE is working on the long awaited Owen Hart documentary. Perhaps even more shocking than the creation of the DVD is the fact that Owen’s widow Martha Hart has given her blessing to the WWE to go forward in creating the documentary.

Finally. Since his tragic passing in May of 1999, wrestling fans worldwide have been waiting for a documentary that would pay tribute to one of the most beloved wrestlers in the history of WWE. We are finally going to get it. No release date has been announced. I personally cannot wait, and I’m going to go out on a limb and say that the DVD will drop sometime near the beginning of 2016– right around WWE Hall of Fame induction announcement time. After waiting far too long, not only will we get an in depth feature on “The Rocket,” but we just may get that final “must have” induction into the H.O.F.

Chris Jericho Announced As The Host of WWE Tough Enough

Y2J has just been revealed as the host of the new incarnation of WWE’s Tough Enough series. In my opinion, that decision is just as good as the previous one that saw Stone Cold Steve Austin host the show. Jericho has been with the WWE on and off for nearly twenty years, not to mention time he spent in WCW, ECW, WAR, as well as many independents across the U.S. and Canada. Jericho was also trained in Stu Hart’s infamous Dungeon. When you talk credible training and experience, the front man of Fozzy is a great choice to host this season of T.E.

Sami Zayn Injured

Monday on Raw, Sami Zayn had the opportunity of a lifetime, taking on John Cena has part of Cena’a United States Championship Open Challenge in front of a rabid hometown crowd Montreal, Canada. Zayn was so excited that before he even entered the ring, it appeared that he injured his right shoulder. Despite this, Zayn went on to wrestle an excellent match with one of the biggest stars in wrestling history.

Unfortunately, the rumor going around is that Zayn’s injury may put him on the shelf for two or three months. Sami had just returned from an injury to the same shoulder. Will this halt his momemtum? I don’t think so. NXT is the “in” thing in wrestling right now, and between the following that he’s amassed while competing for NXT and his incredible performance this past Monday night, I think it’s safe to say that if Sami needs time off, he’ll be greeted with open arms from the WWE Universe upon returning.

Global Force Announces Roster

After much anticipation the first names for Jef f Jarrett’s Global Force has been announced. The names include the likes of Justin Gabriel, D.H. Smith, Lance Hoyt, and Bullet Club’s Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows. It seems as though the promotion has grabbed a hold of quite a few talents that have been cutting their teeth in Japan for a while now (Gabriel the only exception, as he recently left WWE). I can dig it, especially the addition of two Bullet Club members, arguably the most popular group in pro wrestling at this moment. I’m excited to see who else gets named!

That’s it for this week. If you’re near north east Ohio, come see me at Olde Wrestling in Lakewood, Ohio tomorrow. I’ll have a mustache. That in itself should sell you on the show.

www.oldewrestling.com

-Greg

http://www.cheap-heat.com/i-like-john-cena/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/i-like-john-cena/#comments Wed, 06 May 2015 02:54:27 +0000 Gregory Iron Blogs Wrestler Blogs John Cena http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11556   Just the title of this article could have easily deterred you from opening this article. I thank you for taking the chance and clicking on the link.   I like John Cena, and not just because he’s a great role model for kids and though I’ve never met him, he seems like a genuinely […]

Just the title of this article could have easily deterred you from opening this article. I thank you for taking the chance and clicking on the link.

I like John Cena, and not just because he’s a great role model for kids and though I’ve never met him, he seems like a genuinely good human.

I think he’s a pretty damn good wrestler.

Just that last sentence could have easily deterred you from continuing to read this column. I sincerely thank you for sticking around.

Anyhow, yea, I think John Cena is a pretty good wrestler. He’s not my all time favorite wrestler. He’s actually far from my all time favorite when I judge him solely on his in-ring ability. Shawn Michaels. Chris Jericho. Steve Austin. Bret Hart. CM Punk. Kurt Angle. Jimmy Del Ray. I’d put all of them above Cena when it comes to all time in-ring wrestlers.В If you wanna talk my top all around favorite wrestlers, performers, and interviews, I think Cena would definitely be in my top ten. I don’t know if I could ever bring myself to purchase and wear a brightly colored “Never Give Up” shirt in public– or in private– but I would definitely say Cena is one of my favorites.

Maybe it’s the wrestler in me talking, but I respect the hell out of John Cena and his work ethic. For over a decade, Cena has gone above and beyond the call of duty outside of the squared circle. When he isn’t wrestling or traveling to the next town, he makes endless media appearances via radio and television. He has fufilled hundreds of Make-A-Wishes– more than anyone else ever in fact. When he’s done with those things, he still has to make time for lifting, eating, family, and sleep. Darren Young calls himself “Mr. No Days Off,” but that moniker truly belongs to Cena.

I talk about Cena’s work ethic outside the ring, but don’t think I don’t see his dedication to his craft within the ring. He gets a lot of criticism, but John Cena has memorable matches and moments with some of the all time greats, and it hasn’t always been a case of the other guy “carrying” Cena. There are little things John does– facials, movements, timing– that help the story that he and his adversary are trying to tell within the ring… things that not all wrestlers have.

Think about Ultimate Warrior for a second. He isn’t one that’s known for extremely long or incredible matches. One of his absolute best, however, was his WrestleMania VII match with Randy Savage. There are certain things The Warrior did in that match– looking up to the sky and questioning the power of his Gods, or even just wearing the trunks with the WWF Championship on it that said “Means Much More Than This,”– that painted a much more beautiful and colorful picture. It’s storytelling. В Cena is a master at things like this. Go back and watch his matches with Wyatt. Orton. Edge. Lesnar.

This week on Raw, Cena wrestled Sami Zayn, and Zayn came up on the losing end. The IWC was in an uproar.

“This is why I hate John Cena,” wrote one fan.

“Zayn comes to the main roster and is already being buried,” wrote another fan, apparently not knowing how to properly use the term “buried” in the context of pro wrestling.

John Cena, easily one of the top ten biggest stars in the history of wrestling, gave Sami Zayn a match in his Raw debut that not only showcased his athletic ability and charisma, but he gave him a competitive match that made him look like a legitimate contender to anyone on the main roster. Cena is often compared to Hogan in his prime. Do you think Hogan would have done that in his position, at his peak, on free television? Doubtful.

I’m writing this late, and I feel like I’m rambling somewhat incoherently. I’m not trying to change your opinion. If you hate Cena, chances are you’ll always hate him, and vice versa. Talking to Zach Gowen this weekend though, I think he said it best.

“I think people will look at John Cena’s run a decade from now and appreciate it and his work a whole lot more.”

I think so. What do you think?

Friday I’ll be in Lakewood, Ohio for Olde Wrestling. Check them out at www.oldewrestling.com.

-Greg

http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-draft-big-board-fabulous-lady-edition/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-draft-big-board-fabulous-lady-edition/#comments Sat, 02 May 2015 20:40:46 +0000 Scott Hayes Blogs Other Blogs NXT WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11478 Welcome to "Day 2" of the Draft! I went back and forth about how I should handle this. I thought about just a continuation. Where you'd no doubt see names like: Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, and Heath Slater. DRAFT ME, BABY!! (One of these things is not like the other… One of these […]

Welcome to "Day 2" of the Draft! I went back and forth about how I should handle this. I thought about just a continuation. Where you'd no doubt see names like: Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, and Heath Slater.

DRAFT ME, BABY!!

(One of these things is not like the other… One of these things just doesn't belong…)

I also began thinking… "Where would the women fall into this?" I no doubt would have had a few ladies in that second ten, despite the fact that the actual WWE, generally, doesn't seem to rank them all that highly. Then I decided it'd be much better for the Women to have their very own Big Board. Lets see the top 10 Prospects in the WWE/NXT.

#1 Sasha Banks.

SCOUTING REPORT: There are fewer surer bets in all the wrestling world than Sasha banks, in this humble scout's opinion. Total package. Checks every possible box you want in a wrestler. Promos. Charisma. Great character. Ring work. Awesome finisher and excellent signature moves. Great nickname. Some catchy catchphrases being developed. Hell even her merchandise is already on point… Throw in the fact that she has a famous cousin? There is good reason to think WWE will be as high on Sasha Banks as I am. Predominantly has worked as a heel, in NXT during her rise to becoming NXT Women's Champion. Expect her to eventually be the top face in the division some day in the not too distant future. Absolute no brainer #1 pick.

#2 Paige.

SCOUTING REPORT: She is only a few ticks behind Sasha Banks, on my score sheet. Arguably better in ring. Her style is unique. She's athletic and more importantly she may be the most physical and punishing woman the WWE Diva's division has had since the days of Alundra Blayze and Bull Nakano. Her only deductions that put her behind Banks, for me, is the promo skills can be lacking, but she has charisma off the charts in sit down interviews. She seems better off the cuff than heavily scripted… so it could be more WWE's doing than Paige's. The other, there have been some character inconsistencies. Which, again might be creatives doing more so than Paige's. But you have the youngest champion in WWE history. An already TWO Time Diva's Champion… Oh, and she's only 21.

#3 Bayley.

SCOUTING REPORT: I can feel some people recoil with this pick. Perhaps Charlotte or Nikki Bella would be some other people's choices, but I don't know if I've seen people rally around and with a women's wrestler… EVER. Trying to think if any of the TNA Knockouts get the love and more importantly inspire the sympathy than Bayley does. The wide eyed enthusiasm. The colors, the streamers, the music, and wild wacky inflatable tube men… The total package is fun and positive. Rooting for Bayley is easy. And? She can go in the ring. Tying that character with excellent in ring skills and genuine love of wrestling puts her this high. Plus she's already moving merch. I'm seeing a lot of "I'm A Hugger" t-shirts on Raw and Smackdown.

Future is BRIGHT!

#4 Charlotte.

SCOUTING REPORT: Arguably the most athletically gifted of the top four. A collegiate athlete, who despite her lineage, has wrestling for less than 3 years. For those not in the know, the "lineage" I speak of is she's the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer, Ric Flair. In ring she can do things I can't remember seeing in Women's matches. When the most suspect things in your matches are homages to your father? (The knife edge chops need some work, as does the WHOOOOOO.) You're doing wonderfully. Needs a little more polishing in the promo department. Seems more suited to work as an athletically superior, cocky, condescending heel. Especially with her "Genetically Superior" tag line. A LOT of promise here, and she's already one of the top women wrestlers in the WWE.

#5 Nikki Bella.

SCOUTING REPORT: Probably the most recognizable WWE Diva. One of the focal points of the E! Reality show, "Total Divas". She would classify as what many would call the "WWE's definition of a �DIVA'". (Translation: Pretty. Curvy. Hopefully she can wrestle a little bit, but it doesn't REALLY matter.) – 3 years ago the thought of this, to me, would be laughable. Today, I toyed with having her as high as 3. Of course the out of the ring stuff is HUGE. Main stream publicity is great. The reality show is a draw. But up until recently I'd not once considered her a WRESTLER. (obligatory every column reminder: #Remember2ndW) But? She is. She's developed herself into a solid to good in ring performer. Her move set is unique and entertaining. I like that she has a developing arsenal of power moves like the Alabama Slam, and the Rack Attack. Value off the charts as a mean girl type heel, especially if paired with her sister to double the evil factor. When I envision the Bellas befriending a recently debuting Bayley, only to turn it saying it was all a ruse? Then they torment her for months? $$$$ in a feud like that. Possible negative? She has expressed a desire to start a family… Now whether or not that is legitimate, or a Reality Show construct? Two entirely different things, but if we're taking it as truth, it has to be weighed by potential drafters.

#6 Natalya.

SCOUTING REPORT: She is the bridge between Divas Past and Divas Future. A wrestler first, Diva second. Daughter of Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart, she's been with the WWE for 7 years. Very good in ring. Has had good to great matches with every one of the women listed above her. Has a lot of value in the ring for women's division. Technically sound and can carry her own in segments. The more she can wrestle… more matches… and LONGER matches? The better.

#7 Alicia Fox.

SCOUTING REPORT: I can hear people saying "WWWWHHHHHAAAAAAATTT?!?!" Alicia Fox is athletically gifted. At 5'9" has impressive size for a WWE Diva. A former WWE Diva's Champion. To me she is WILDLY… MIND BLOWINGLY Underrated. If you look back at the unhinged hissy fits she was throwing when losing matches you got an idea of what potential was there for her to connect with a crowd. She threw herself full force into those post match segments. (Reminded me of how Sandow throws himself into anything he was assigned no matter how potentially ridiculous it was) – So much so the crowds really started to get into it. Lots of charisma. Lots of potential and I think a lot more can be done with Alicia Fox inside a WWE Ring.

#8 Becky Lynch.

SCOUTING REPORT: Becky Lynch has been wrestling a long time. Similar to Paige in that aspect she was training as a teenager in Ireland. Strong and athletic she has a lot of in ring ability. Out of the ring the promos could use some polish, and sometimes I get confused on if she is working as a face, or heel. Clearly Team BAE saw her as a heel, but away from Banks' influence she's a bit of a tweener. Love the mat work. Lots of suplexes, throws, and holds at her disposal. The arm bar she's been using is down right nasty. The total package is unique and impressive. Feels like she's not he verge, but something hasn't quite "clicked" with fans, yet. Could be a late round steal.

#9 Naomi.

SCOUTING REPORT: Debuting as Brodus Clay's cheerleader/backup dancer might have sank any other aspiring wrestler. Luckily for Naomi, and us, it didn't. Has a fun and unique moveset in ring. Her move set is totally made for a face, and they just turned her… which was out of left field and made zero sense. So part of the issue is creative, but there is charisma and athleticism there to tap into. The split legged moonsault is one of my favorite moves (That's why his efed character used it as a finish) – I'd like to see a different finisher. The Rear View is just kind of goofy, and again… more of a babyface move, in my opinion. (Mojo, you need to quit using it too)

#10 Emma.

SCOUTING REPORT: I'd love to put Emma higher, but? No can do. I personally enjoy Emma, a LOT more than the WWE does. She is good in ring. Has charisma and in NXT the crowd loved her. Maybe that character missed the greater WWE Universe? Maybe it was the weird coupling with Santino? She was a plucky fan friendly lovable goofball in NXT. Fun unique entrance with the bubbles. A possible problem with Bayley would be how Emma was treated when she moved up to the main roster. But Emma has plenty of time. She just turned 25. Has a new darker edge she's showing in NXT in a budding feud with Bayley. The ability is there. Just needs the direction to put it all together.

Thanks for joining me, Todd McsHAYES for another Big Board Breakdown. We'll see you for the 2016 draft! Enjoy your Super Sporting Saturday, and follow me on the tweets @sirmhayesxiv

http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-draft-day-the-big-board/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-draft-day-the-big-board/#comments Fri, 01 May 2015 04:49:25 +0000 Scott Hayes Blogs Other Blogs Draft Draft Day WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11460 This weekend is a glorious time on the sporting calendar, and YES!YES!YES! (Sorry, force of habit) I'm considering Thursday night as part of the weekend! (Its like college all over again! LETS GO DRINKING!) WHY is this weekend so amazing for those of us who obsess over the Sporting Arts? Major League Baseball is in […]

This weekend is a glorious time on the sporting calendar, and YES!YES!YES! (Sorry, force of habit) I'm considering Thursday night as part of the weekend! (Its like college all over again! LETS GO DRINKING!)

WHY is this weekend so amazing for those of us who obsess over the Sporting Arts? Major League Baseball is in full swing (see what I did there?) – NBA and NHL Playoffs are chugging along. Saturday will see a full slate of Premier League action, as their season winds down. If ball and puck sports aren't your thing? Crazy small and light people will mount equines and run for Roses. Plus a couple dudes named Manny and Floyd will slug each other repeatedly for our viewing amusement. BUT, we're not done yet. This weekend is DRAFT Weekend for the entertainment beast that is the National Football League. Roger Goodell (BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!) and crew will take over Chicago (CM PUNK! CM PUNK! CM PUNK!) for three days selecting the next generation of tackle football stars. WHICH? Brings me to this here column. Every year numerous prognosticators and "experts" set off in trying to decide WHO will go to what slot. Basically ranking the available talent. We wrestling fans are not unfamiliar with the draft.

Years ago Smackdown and Raw were separate brands, and with Smackdown's impending move to USA, AND with the NFL Draft devouring this weekend? I thought… What would happen if WWE decided to bring back the draft, but not some weird version of draft… not some:

Random generator that just highlights who is going where. But two creative teams responsible to make picks of the available WWE and NXT talent. So in this hypothetical world, I'll be playing the role of Todd McShay (Cuz Mel Kiper is the worst) … Here is Todd McsHAYES' Big Board!

#1 Seth Rollins.

SCOUTING REPORT: Best all around performer who is just coming into his prime. Has been the best heel in the company the last year. Has a move set that will easily transition him to the face side of things when the time comes. Can have great matches with anyone. Will be someone who gets love from both casual fans and diehards. Again his versatility and relative youth lands him in this spot.

#2 John Cena

SCOUTING REPORT: Face of the WWE for the last decade. Solid performer, who is underrated in the ring. Majority of the vocal crowd, namely us adult males 18-40, grow tired of his schtick. The man is a cash piñata. Every match he's involved in is regularly the best match from crowd interest and reaction. Plus the trump card of an eventual diabolical heel turn is a license to print money. He's only 38, too. He has another good five years plus… (I can hear the wailing and gnashing of teeth.)

#3 Randy Orton

SCOUTING REPORT: Similar to Cena in how long he's been at the top of the WWE's Universe. So much so that you double take the fact that he JUST turned 35. Has similar flexibility to Rollins in how he's used, but isn't as beloved by the "diehards". Not the most warm/cuddly WWE Superstar when it comes to fan interactions and Media obligations. Orton always seems to be the guy who prefers to work heel because there then he DOESN'T have to "shake hands and kiss babies"… so to speak.

#4 Brock Lesnar

SCOUTING REPORT: Some people think its controversial to put him this high… others this low. Basically he COULD be the face of the WWE, but? He won't. If you risk a high pick on him, expect to only see him occasionally, but when you DO? It'll be spectacular. Character flexibility, and legit fighting credentials put him this high. Its a total "Buyer Beware" situation. You never know when he'll again "have his fill" of sports entertainment and recede to the mountains of North, South, East, or West Dakota!

#5 Dolph Ziggler

SCOUTING REPORT: The man could have, and arguably SHOULD have won the 2015 Royal Rumble. He'll be 35, soon, and some question his love for the profession, but? The intangibles are off the charts. Crowds love him. He was the most popular guy in the WWE late fall, and early winter. His win over the Authority at Survivor Series SHOWS what "could be". Added intangible is a bit of a cool factor as he's a budding Stand Up Comedian, with a bunch of comedian friends.

#6 Bray Wyatt

SCOUTING REPORT: Bray Wyatt is a man who was, quite possibly, born for this industry. His look and mic skills are unmatched. He can have great matches, but his bread and butter is with a mic in his hand. Charisma is off the charts. So much so that despite the dark and evil nature of his character, crowds love him. There is potential there as a face. The crowd could be his cult.

#7 Roman Reigns

SCOUTING REPORT: He's basically a more athletic, much better wrestler than the cousin that he gets comparisons to, The Rock. He's also severely lacking in the "Electricity" his Hall of Fame bound box office bound cousin has. A former NCAA Football standout who got some looks from the NFL. Definitely the most RAW of the first seven names I've listed here, but that comes a LOT of potential. Some risk here, but some major reward for whoever is willing to take that risk.

#8 Rusev

SCOUTING REPORT: Big athletic guy who moves well. Looks different than most of the WWE Roster. Big, bruising, and physical there is a lot more potential for the "Bulgarian Brute" outside of being the "Angry Foreigner". Could be the monster a brand needs moving forward.

#9 Daniel Bryan

SCOUTING REPORT: One of the most supported WWE Superstars of the last five years. Kids and the smart marks love him. Can wrestle great matches…. and here's the thing… IF. HE. STAYS. HEALTHY. The last 365 days have been an adventure for Bryan. Injuries sidelined him for most of the year. He came back for a few months, and is now shelved, once again. Lot of risk if this is your pick. If his health isn't a question a lot of value. That's a BIG. IF. Still valuable though. Maybe in a tag team. Maybe keeping his work rate toned down, which potentially means protecting Daniel Bryan from himself.

#10 Cesaro

SCOUTING REPORT: In ring total package. Arguably the strongest, pound for pound wrestler in the locker room. I'll admit to a possible Scout bias here. I might like him more than others. You can't find a better in ring performer. Not the most amazing guy on the mic, but there are ways around that. His move set is super unique AND super over. His giant swing is something every crowd loves. There is a main event gem ready to be polished.

There is my Big Board. If you've enjoyed it check out my stuff here on Cheap-Heat. Let me know who I forgot or miss ranked. You can tweet me at @sirmhayesxiv See you soon!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/spoiled-little-brats/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/spoiled-little-brats/#comments Thu, 30 Apr 2015 19:45:48 +0000 Gregory Iron Blogs Wrestler Blogs NXT WWE Network http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11411 When I was young, I never understood why old folks would always get upset whenever I complained about something.В “You spoiled little brat. Back in my day…” was the way the quote began, followed by a story about how they had to walk uphill barefoot in snow, how they had to get up and walk to […]

When I was young, I never understood why old folks would always get upset whenever I complained about something.В “You spoiled little brat. Back in my day…” was the way the quote began, followed by a story about how they had to walk uphill barefoot in snow, how they had to get up and walk to the TV and turn a dial on the TV to change the channel, or how people use to have real conversations before those mini computer texting machines were created.

All week, I’ve watched kids and teens complaining about the WWE Network online,and I now know how those old folks felt. Are you children mental?!

All throughout Extreme Rules, I saw many young folks on Twitter whining with comments like this:

“Wahhhhh. The WWE Network lags during live streams.”

“Wahhhhh. Why is WWE Network uploading this when they should upload that?”

“The only good thing on The Network is NXT.”

You spoiled little brats. How dare you.

BACK IN MY DAY… I would haveВ killed…В literally murdered someone… to have access to a 24 hour wrestling channel. Unfortunately, I was born at the wrong time. You know how I had to watch wrestling? Pay per view! Yea! Instead of paying $9.99 in 2015 for all those hours and hours of wrestling, back in the 1990’s I spent $29.9 9 ($49.00 when you factor in inflation) for two and a half hours of wrestling. You damn kids complaining about a few lags.. It’s better than having to try and watch a PPV that you couldn’t afford through a scrambled screen, trying decipher what was happening through the commentary alone, hoping that you’d get a decent glimpse of some Sable side boob!

If I missed a pay per view live that day, I couldn’t just watch it later on demand whenever I wanted. I had to wait until the following Tuesday, when Viewer’s Choice would air it again. And if I missed that, I had to wait FOUR MONTHS until the VHS (also known as a video casette– the thing that existed before DVD’s) was available. I would then have to pay $39.99 PLUS $5.00 shipping and handling, making the price roughly $67.71 in 2015 with inflation.В What a deal!

I know I have mentioned this before, but I think I should mention it again. I spent nearly my whole childhood– and most of my adult life– trying to collect wrestling tapes, particularly wrestling pay per views. Thousands of dollars were spent–В thousands– in an effort to obtain all the footage that you can now get for under $10 each month.

In all seriousness though– appreciate it! Explore the options on there. There is more than pay per views and NXT. There’s WCW. There’s WCCW. Saturday Night Main Event. Documentaries. Take time to watch the guys that paved the way for the stars you’re watching today, and see how different the product feels. I assure you, it felt a lot less formulaic than it does now.

Do me a favor and watch one episode of something on the WWE Network you know nothing about. You just might like it and appreciate the $9.99 a month package a tad more!

I’ll be gone wrestling all this weekend. Check www.Gregory-Iron.com for my new and improved looking schedule.

If you haven’t already, please watch and share the brand new Handicapped Heroes mini-doc. It’ll take twelve minutes to watch, and one additional to share. We appreciate your support.

Click here to view the embedded video.

-Greg

http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-mvp-of-nxt-42915%e2%80%a8/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-mvp-of-nxt-42915%e2%80%a8/#comments Thu, 30 Apr 2015 05:17:50 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Blogs Other Blogs NXT WWE WWE Network http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11413 The MVP of NXT – 4/29/15 Written by Mark Adam Haggerty There’s something happening here, but what it is—ain’t exactly clear. Oh wait, it’s totally clear! Mark Adam Haggerty is back with another mind-numbing 900 words about this week’s episode of NXT. I hope everyone’s having a lovely week, as this HUMP DAY is almost […]

The MVP of NXT – 4/29/15
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

There’s something happening here, but what it is—ain’t exactly clear. Oh wait, it’s totally clear! Mark Adam Haggerty is back with another mind-numbing 900 words about this week’s episode of NXT. I hope everyone’s having a lovely week, as this HUMP DAY is almost over, and the weekend is well within reach. We’re back here at Cheap-Heat for another night of WWE Developmental action, and it’s time to declare another “MVP of NXT.”

This week’s installment of NXT had a number of impressive Superstars, not the least of which being the number one contender to the NXT championship, Sami Zayn. This was just the second week on television for the powerful Dana Brooks, the tag team champions were exciting as ever, and Alex Riley proved that his heart is perhaps heavier than his brain. But at the end of the show, I had no choice but to award the “MVP of NXT” to Kevin Owens—for the second week in a row.

The show opens on Kevin Owens en route to the squared-circle, where he’s prepared to call his nemesis—Sami Zayn—down to ringside. But instead of the familiar SKA stylings of Sami’s theme song, we’re met with the General Manager of NXT, William Regal.

Kevin Owens is mesmerizing when it comes to the cadence and delivery of his promos: “With all due respect, I don’t think I called you out,” he told Regal, “So I don’t really care what you have to say. I said with all due respect!” William Regal says that making the match between Owens and Zayn is one of the easiest decision he’s ever had to make, but Owens complicates things. He says that he has no problem wrestling Sami Zayn, but he’s not going to put the title on the line.

“What’s he done,” I’m paraphrasing Owens exact comments and questions, “What’s he done to earn a title shot? You attack people from behind and that’s how you earn a title shot? That’s how you earn title shots around here.” Owens is committed to his role as the most detestable villain on NXT programming, and cleverly overlooks his own journey to the gold—paved with the broken bones of the former champion. Kevin Owens refused to put his championship on the line, and leaves the ring, smiling with a smug sense of satisfaction.

Kevin Owens wasn’t very visible throughout the rest of the show, until the final segment, where he joined Byron Saxton, Rich Brennan and Corey Graves in the broadcast booth. The play-by-play and color commentators tried to call the action in the ring between Sami Zayn and Alex Riley, but Owens made it hard for them to focus. “You’ve got the NXT champion Kevin Owens sitting here and you want to talk about Alex Riley?”В

Owens is amazing when visiting the announce desk, because he isn’t afraid of filling dead air with subtle accents and nuances to further develop his character. All too often, wrestlers will join the broadcasters for a segment, and not know what to say. But Owens knows who he is and knows how to play his character. He SHOULD—it hasn’t changed in over a decade, because it’s a true reflection of who KEVIN STEEN is as a human being. He doesn’t talk about demons or being crazy; Kevin Owens is the champion because it means more money, and a better life for his family.

On more than one occasion, Byron Saxton and his colleagues would say something to incite the ire of the champion. Owens made statements and followed them up by ordering the broadcast team to agree with his sentiments: “Let’s all just agree with me. If you’d do that Byron, we’d all get along much better.”В

When the action in the ring spilled to the outside, Sami Zayn became the victim of another assault by Kevin Owens. He clotheslined Zayn and left him lying on his back in the middle of the steel entryway. As is becoming customary with Kevin Owens, the champion started to leave but changed his mind! He set his sights on Alex Riley and proceeded to deliver the devastating power bomb on the outside of the ring that he had planned the week prior. He laughed in the wake of the destruction, and left the arena with his championship held high, and his challengers laid out flat.В

For the second time in as many weeks, the NXT title holder is the most valuable player on the NXT brand. Until someone comes along to challenge the champion in terms of work in the ring—as well as on the mic—Kevin Owens will continue to dominate the “Proverbial Power Rankings,” that I've concocted in my head.

Until next week this has been Mark Adam Haggerty, reminding you to keep checking out my work here at Cheap-Heat and at Daily Wrestling News; follow me on Twitter via @TapeTraderz; and listen to the “B+ Player Podcast” available every Sunday night at Cheap-Heat.com

http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-iron-side-of-the-stories/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-iron-side-of-the-stories/#comments Tue, 28 Apr 2015 22:03:33 +0000 Gregory Iron Blogs Wrestler Blogs Daniel Bryan Matt Hardy Verne Gagne http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11387 Get it?   Ironside?   Iron Side..? Pretty clever, right?   *awkward silence*   Anyhow, in The Iron Side of the Stories, I’m going to run through a few of the current events in wrestling, and give yout my perspective on that particular situation. Here we go!   King of the Ring Finals   Tonight, […]

Get it?

Ironside?

Iron Side..? Pretty clever, right?

*awkward silence*

Anyhow, in The Iron Side of the Stories, I’m going to run through a few of the current events in wrestling, and give yout my perspective on that particular situation. Here we go!

King of the Ring Finals

Tonight, the King of the Ring Finals air live on the WWE Network. Bad News Barrett takes on R-Truth, and Neville battles Sheamus. My prediction? Neville. I feel like the former NXT Champion can benefit from the KOR win more than any others involved.

Historically, winning King if the Ring propels WWE Superstars to bigger and better things, and maked them bigger stars in the process (let’s forget about the Mabel, Shamrock, and Billy Gunn KOR wins). I can’t see Truth winning, as he probably won’t be moving up the card anytime soon. Sheamus has business to attend to with Ziggler, and while I can see Barrett being a King that delivers “Bad News,” I feel like with Neville being a fresh roster arrival, he will gain the most out of winning this classic tourney tonight.

Verne Gagne Passes Away

If you don’t know who Verne Gagne is, Google him now. Without Gagne, we may have never heard of guys like Ric Flair, Sgt. Slaughter, Iron Sheik, Bob Backlund, Jim Brunzell, Jesse Ventura, Gene Okerlund, Eric Bischoff, or Hulk Hogan. Whether it was training them in the ring or behind a microphone, Verne Gagne’s Minnesota based AWA gave these men and countless others a stage to showcase their talent and abilities. After a long battle with Alzeimer’s Disease, Verne passedan last night at the age of 89.

Gagne’s contributons to the business were endless. If you are subscribed to the WWE Network, I recommend you watch “The Spectacular Legacy of the AWA” to learn about Verne. Triple H tweeted about Gagne’s passing last night, using the hash tag “pioneer.” That word definitely sums Verne Gagne up.

Daniel Bryan Pulled From All Upcoming WWE Events

Professionally, the last 12 months has had to be one of the toughest years in Daniel Bryan’s life. In 2014, he overcame The Authority to become WWE Champion in the main event of WrestleMania XXX. Just as we thought Bryan was going to get the lengthy WWE Title run he deserved, neck issues abruptly ended his championship reign. One year later, Bryan returns to win the Intercontinental Championship in a classic Ladder Match at ‘Mania 31. Just as we think Bryan is about to restore prestige to the title once known behind the scenes as “The Wrestler’s Championship,” Bryan is gone once again.

Rumors are swirling about his injury and it’s severity. As much as I would love to see Bryan back, and I think he will be back, as a wrestler my main concern is Bryan’s health. He’s a smart guy. He’s made and saved his money. Bryan has nothing to prove. If he couldn’t come back for health reasons, Bryan needs to know that it’s okay.

His career defied the odds. At 5′ 7″ and 180 pounds, Daniel Bryan achieved things in the WWE that most wrestlers at that size will only dream about. He’s a true inspiration. With that said, I hope Bryan is okay, as he is one of the most beloved Superstars on the current roster. Here’s hoping for a full recovery!

Matt Hardy’s Go Fund Me Campaign

Click here to view the embedded video.

With the exception of Colt Cabana, there is no one that does better self promotion than “Version 1,” Matt Hardy. In his recent YouTube video, Matt does an incredible spoof on the people that use and abuse Go Fund Me. It’s worth a view.

That’s The Iron Side of the Stories for today!

Do me a favor:

My pal Kenny Johnson just did this incredible 12 minute documentary on myself and Zach Gowen, simply entitied “Handicapped Heroes.” It’s already been viewed and shared by the likes of Matt Hardy, The Young Bucks, The Hurricane, Mickie James, Sonjay Dutt, The Blue Meanie, Diamond Dallas Page, artist Jill Thompson, and many others.

If you enjoy what you see, please share it with your friends and family. Zach and I aren’t asking for your money. We just want twelve minutes of your time so that we can show the world that no matter your circumstances, if you’re willing to endure the hard work, inspire others through your dedication, and fight for the things you truly believe in, all dreams are possible.

Click here to view the embedded video.

If you do feel like supporting us financially, buy a Handicapped Heroes tee at www.prowrestlingtees.com/GregoryIron. Thanks!

-Greg

http://www.cheap-heat.com/king-of-the-ring-ranking-past-brackets/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/king-of-the-ring-ranking-past-brackets/#comments Tue, 28 Apr 2015 03:47:51 +0000 GuysNation Wrestling Blogs Top Lists King of the Ring http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11367 It had been a long time coming, but WWE finally brought back the King Of The Ring tournament. The bracket-driven concept was easily one of my favorite events of the WWE calendar through the 90s. It effectively pushed forward guys into spots of prominence and allowed for a creative way to switch things up and […]

It had been a long time coming, but WWE finally brought back the King Of The Ring tournament. The bracket-driven concept was easily one of my favorite events of the WWE calendar through the 90s. It effectively pushed forward guys into spots of prominence and allowed for a creative way to switch things up and added a new dimension to feuds. And when characters took on the “King” persona… those were the good old days.

Starting with the inaugural pay per view incarnation in 1993, I took that and the subsequent brackets, analyzed them and came up with an overall ranking of the brackets themselves. I factored in who was in the final 8, the quality of those seven matches, and gave extra weight to the winner as well as their finals opponent. Did the winner go on to be a big deal, or did they squander the opportunity and fizzle out? Would the finals opponent have been a better option? Were there matches along the way that lasted fewer than 4 minutes, and did they take the easy way out by giving someone a bye?

Those were the factors I weighed… here’s what I came up with, listed worst to first:

1999 – Easily the worst of the tournaments. Billy Gunn winning the whole thing, beating X-Pac in the finals? Seriously?! Neither of the semi-final matches went more than 6 minutes (nor did the finals). Two of the first-round matches didn’t hit the 4 minute mark. The prior year’s winner, Ken Shamrock, got eliminated in short order in the first round – a fight that would’ve been better served late in the tournament. The tournament felt like they were trying too hard to push the DX feud.

1995 – The finals were terrible, even worse than 1999. MABEL vs SAVIO VEGA?! I was very tempted to name this as the worst of the brackets, especially with the BYE that Mabel got in the semi-finals, but there was some decent talent in the quarterfinals. Savio Vega found a way to defeat Yokozuna in the quarterfinals… a match that should’ve been in the semis instead of putting The Roadie in the final 3. I actually remember from 20 years ago the match between Kama and Shawn Michaels and how it ended in a time-limit draw. Mabel getting the victory over The Undertaker in the quarterfinals – in addition to the fact that the whole thing took place on pay per view – keeps this from being in last place.

2008 – I’m a fan of William Regal. The guy deserved far better than he received throughout his WWE tenure. I would’ve loved to see him get World Title shots… but having him win the 2008 bracket is truly regrettable… primarily because his opponent in the finals was CM Punk. The semifinals were decent enough… with a short match between Regal and Finlay resulting in a knockout, and Punk pinning Jericho after six minutes of action. The quarterfinals is what really kills this tournament. Sure, MVP and Matt Hardy are decent opponents, but the fact that this tournament was on RAW meant that the matches had to be short, and neither of those guys got more than 5 minutes. And in Regal’s half of the bracket…. Hornswoggle and The Great Khali. If it weren’t for the top half of the bracket, this one might be a SERIOUS contender for worst bracket ever based on what they could’ve done… especially had it been stretched out to more than just one night. Had Punk won and the matches been given more time, it would’ve been higher.

2010 – Sheamus beating John Morrison in the finals is a disappointment, primarily because there were plenty of better options on the other side of the bracket. Alberto Del Rio…. Cody Rhodes… and a guy by the name of Daniel Bryan. On Sheamus’ side of the bracket, sure a victory over Kofi Kingston is an alright way to get things started, but giving Sheamus a BYE in the semi-finals is terrible. Rey Mysterio, Big Show, MVP, Tyson Kidd and Alex Riley each could’ve been utilized to help put over Sheamus, and instead they gave him an extended rest.

1994 – The setup was perfect. Owen Hart trying to get out of the shadow of his older brother Bret, who had won the King Of The Ring the prior year. Owen had Jim Neidhart watching his back the whole way. At the time, it absolutely seemed like Razor Ramon could win the tournament, and he had a strong showing getting to the finals. Owen beat Tatanka, then The 1-2-3 Kid by submission. What really sells this bracket is the fact that The King Of Harts was born from it, and it added quite a bit to the feud between the Hart brothers. Had Lex Luger advanced, that would’ve added something special to Owen’s resume with a victory over one of the other guys who co-main evented WrestleMania X a couple months prior. Instead, they had Luger lose to Jeff Jarrett… by count-out. Scott Steiner also failed to reach the quarterfinals.

1998 – I understand that WWE was trying to take advantage of the emergence of Mixed Martial Arts and the UFC, but they took it a little far with this tournament. The finals featured The Rock against Ken Shamrock… and the MMA-star was the victor. A guy who went on to NEVER hold the World Title – or even have a memorable pay per view match – got put over arguably one of the top WWE Superstars of all time. Sure, The Rock defeated MMA star Dan Severn in the semi-finals, but only after The Beast had made Owen Hart tap out in 3 minutes in the quarterfinals. Shamrock defeated the likes of Mark Henry and Jeff Jarrett on the way to the finals. Fairly disappointing, from start to finish, but with plenty of potential.

1997 – A twenty minute match between Triple H and Mankind in the finals, with the Hardcore Legend rightfully putting over Triple H to help advance his career to the next level. The prior rounds were a bit lackluster, but some decent names were involved. Jerry Lawler being in the semi-finals was a couple years too late, and Ahmed Johnson looked impressive at times but ultimately amounted to nothing. And having it take nearly 20 minutes for Triple H to beat CRUSH in the first round? Not the greatest of tournaments.

1996 – Stone Cold was born when he won this tournament by defeating Jake Roberts. He was absolutely the right choice to win that year – even by Triple H’s own admission – because Austin was ready to take the brass ring, and winning gave him that clout. Vader should’ve been the one to get to the finals, and his semi-finals loss to Jake Roberts – in less than 4 minutes, nevertheless – is regrettable. Marc Mero defeating Owen Hart in the quarterfinals robbed us of an opportunity to see Austin fight the younger Hart brother in his semi-finals match. Had they let Yokozuna, Triple H or The Ultimate Warrior get out of the Round Of 16, this tournament could’ve been really incredible.

2000 – Sure, the finals between Kurt Angle and Rikishi was lackluster, but Angle was definitely the right guy to win the tournament. The other guys in the semi-finals are certainly questionable. Crash Holly… not Hardcore Holly, but the smaller version of the duo… and Val Venis? They had Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit and Chris Jericho in the final 8. Why not get one of those guys into the semis? A finals match between Angle and any of those three guysВ would’ve been classic.

2006 – The fact that the everything but theВ tournament finals took place on Smackdown certainly detracts from the overall luster of the event. At the time, Bobby Lashley was looking like he was going to be a Hall Of Famer, so having Booker T defeat him in the finals was refreshing.В Kurt Angle having to forfeit in the semi-finals, giving Booker T a bye right to the finals is a bit disappointing. They could’ve had Booker find a way to take advantage of Angle’s injury. Finlay vs Benoit went 20 minutesВ andKurt Angle got Randy Orton to tap out in the first round, rounding things out for a fairly solid tournament. The transformation involved in King Bookaaaah and the way he ran with that character actually made this tournament all the better.

2002 – It was inevitable that Brock Lesnar was going to win the tournament, but having Rob Van Dam as his finals opponent was a good option. Having Test as Lesnar’s semi-finals opponent isn’t terrible, but it’s a disappointment when you realize that Lesnar’s first-round opponent was Booker T… who lost in less than 4 minutes when Test got an 8 minute match. Rob Van Dam vs Chris Jericho in the other semi-finals? I’ll take that any day. The other talent was disappointing, with X-Pac being the only other decent talent there, with Val Venis and Hardcore Holly filling spaces.

1993 – Initially I expected the first King Of The Ring Pay Per View to be in the top spot, but it gets to the penultimate spot. Bret Hart carried the WWE from the Hulk Hogan era into a new generation, and it could be argued that this was the event that started that transformation in the business, especially because it’s the event where Yokozuna defeated Hulk Hogan for the belt. But Bret Hart going the entire length of the tournament, putting on great matches with Razor Ramon, Mr. Perfect and then Bam Bam Bigelow in the finals. Three Hall Of Fame opponents defeated, two of the matches going over 18 minutes… all in one night! The draw between Lex Luger and Tatanka in the first round was actually good in the context of their feud. The aftermath of the tournament, with Jerry Lawler attacking The Hitman during the coronation ceremony and turning it into a good filler angle for a few months was also an added bonus. This event made me interested in all future King Of The Ring tournaments.

2001 – It doesn’t get much better than Edge beating prior year’s KOTR winner Kurt Angle in the finals, both guys future Hall Of Famers and legitimate stars at the time. Both semi-finals matches went beyond the 8 minute mark. Only one of the first round matches went less than 4 minutes. The potential drama of Christian making it to the semi-finals and almost having a finals match against his tag team partner added to the tournament. Though Jeff Hardy, Perry Saturn, Tajiri and Rhyno aren’t necessarily Hall Of Fame bound, they’re all talented and exciting performers, making for a excellentВ tournament matches. Two rounds on television and two rounds on pay per view, no cheap finishes, no BYEs? Great stuff.

So how does the 2015 King Of The Ring stack up? I don’t thinkВ true analysis can be done until a few years from now where you see how the winner evolved because of their victory, and to see how the other competitors in the bracket look with a bit more seasoning to their careers. What will their resumes look like when 2018 rolls around? How will the landscape of WWE be affected by the events of the 2015 bracket? Time will tell!

~~~This article originally appeared on GuysNation.com ~~~

http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-king-of-the-ring-2015-preview/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/wwe-king-of-the-ring-2015-preview/#comments Mon, 27 Apr 2015 23:04:36 +0000 Scott Hayes Blogs Other Blogs King of the Ring KOTR RAW WWE WWE Network http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11360 Welcome to a new week, Wrestling fans. It also kicks off a fresh Pay Per View cycle, and while it appears that we could be staring down the barrel of numerous Extreme Rules rematches for Payback Cena/Rusev, already announced. Sheamus/Ziggler aren't done. Kidd/Cesaro should have a rematch. Nikki Bella could have a rematch. I could […]

Welcome to a new week, Wrestling fans. It also kicks off a fresh Pay Per View cycle, and while it appears that we could be staring down the barrel of numerous Extreme Rules rematches for Payback Cena/Rusev, already announced. Sheamus/Ziggler aren't done. Kidd/Cesaro should have a rematch. Nikki Bella could have a rematch. I could see Orton having a claim to get another shot at Rollins… The show itself was good, but the build was just so underwhelming it was hard to get SUPER into Extreme Rules.

In fact, THE most interesting thing that came out of Extreme Rules last night? Was in their spots for the new content hitting the WWE Network, is that the King of the Ring will make its long pined for (At least by this humble writer) return to WWE television.

This incarnation of the WWE's tournament will not be a stand alone event, but a two day affair. Kicking off with 8 men battling in four matches that comprise the first round tonight. Then the semifinals and finals will take place tomorrow… LIVE… as a WWE Network exclusive. Be interesting to see how that plays out production wise tomorrow with the Smackdown taping.

The only gripe is the out of left field nature of this announcement. If you could have had this be hyped up and even added another round it could have really ramped up. That said? I'm just stoked its returned. With their roster and how they struggle to fill the many hours of television they have each and every week? How this single elimination tournament sat collecting dust in deep storage is beyond me!

Its been four and a half years since the last King of the Ring, and before that they were happening every two years, going back to 2002 when it was still considered one of the WWE's Major Pay Per Views (after Wrestlemania, Royal Rumble, Summerslam, and Survivor Series.). Past winners have included Bret Hart, Steve Austin, Edge, Booker T… and less successfully: Mabel, Ken Shamrock, and Billy Gunn (Ass King, King Ass, Your Royal Assness just didn't have the best ring to it) – so even out of the "less successful" list? Its only MABEL who stands out as a dud. Shamrock and Gunn both were successful and popular even as singles wrestlers when they both won. This was a hope to get them to the next level. Just didn't quite click for Ken and Billy.

Now, before i continue talking about KotR and discussing the bracket that kicks off in just over two hours… Currently one of the most popular books and television shows on the planet is Game of Thrones. WWE always prides itself on its Pop Culture Prowess. Why they haven't seen to capitalize on this before GoT's 5th season? There's a lot of fun stuff you could have potentially done with Game of Thrones references. What if WWE fashions their own "Golden Throne" of melted down former Championship Belts? What if each combatant cuts a promo from said throne:

Okay… I might be nerding out a little TOO hard, here sue me. (Also the photoshopping skills aren't exactly at a "professional" level.)

The fact is we're going to get a series of good WRESTLING matches (#RememberThe2ndW) – and someone is fixing to come out with a nice resume builder. Will it be the 2nd reign of King Sheamus? Or will we see someone like Dolph Ziggler get crowned? Before we look at who MIGHT win? We need to know who's in?

Tonight we'll see Ambrose versus Sheamus, Neville versus Luke Harper, R-Truth versus Stardust, and Dolph Ziggler versus Bad News Barrett. Some very good match ups. In fact the only "meh" match up to me is Truth and Stardust. And that's not awful, and the match itself could be really entertaining. Just from the competitors involved, it does the least for me as a fan. Its also the most predictable, in my opinion. Stardust moves on.

Ambrose and Sheamus is the most difficult to pick. Ambrose is coming off a big Pay Per View win. One that felt like the first in FOREVER for the "Lunatic Fringe". Sheamus is coming off a Pay Per View LOSS, in his first PPV match back. I get the feeling that Sheamus and Ziggler are done. Perhaps Ziggler costs Sheamus this match after being humiliated last night.

So as I pointer out above, IF Ziggler costs Sheamus, or vice versa… It could easily be Sheamus costing Ziggler in his match against Barrett. Of course that feels a little overkill to have the matches end in screwy fashion like that. I guess we'll see.

Finally Luke Harper takes on Neville. Neville has been on quite the hot streak, since debuting. I can't see Harper slowing that down. Great clash of styles here. Harper's big brawling and Neville's lightning quick athletic offense will mesh well. Neville gets to the Semifinals.

Ultimately there are more than a few possible and deserving winners of the 2015 King of the Ring. (I have Ambrose over Neville and Barrett over Stardust. Ambrose winning the whole thing.) – But there is added intrigue in how they handle however handles this. Do they get a title shot? Does the winner adopt the "King" Monicker? (Here is hoping for a King Cesaro in 2016!)

The King of the Ring coming back is an exciting and unexpected thing. Hopefully tonight and tomorrow will be the first step in a return to prominence for WWE's "Game of Thrones". They have the talent. They CERTAINLY have the time. This could be an annual special on the Network. It could expand. It could include NXT. There are a lot of possibilities if this is something WWE wants to make a more regular part of their annual Post Mania plans.

So tonight I'm looking forward to Raw and seeing who gets crowned tomorrow night on the Network.

http://www.cheap-heat.com/educated-guess-wwe-extreme-rules-2015/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/educated-guess-wwe-extreme-rules-2015/#comments Fri, 24 Apr 2015 05:25:31 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Blogs Other Blogs Extreme Rules WWE WWE Network http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=11296 Educated Guess WWE Extreme Rules 2015 Written by Mark Adam Haggerty This Sunday is WWE’s first “Live Event” since WrestleMania 31, and it’s another “free-per-view” for newbies to the WWE Network. Extreme Rules features most of the same matches as ‘Mania, but with various stipulations, making for an even-more watered down product than we’re used […]

Educated Guess
WWE Extreme Rules 2015
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

This Sunday is WWE’s first “Live Event” since WrestleMania 31, and it’s another “free-per-view” for newbies to the WWE Network. Extreme Rules features most of the same matches as ‘Mania, but with various stipulations, making for an even-more watered down product than we’re used to. And where did the WWE decide to hold this throwaway show? Chicago’s All State Arena, where we can almost guarantee a dozen disrespectful “CM Punk” chants, most likely during the Diva’s title match. I’m not looking forward to this show because WrestleMania season is over, and the WWE hasn’t done anything remotely entertaining during this time of year since the Invasion—and they couldn’t even do that right. WCW and ECW were invading the WWE for the first time ever, and they FUCKED it up. So why in god’s name would I be excited for a KISS MY ARSE match, or a Chicago Street Fight featuring one performer who never fucking wins? My name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this is my “Educated Guess” for Extreme Rules 2015.

WWE Tag Team Championship
Kidd & Cesaro (c) vs. The New Day
The tag team championship will be decided on the preshow for yet another month, as the incomparable Kidd and Cesaro put their belts on the line against two unnamed members of The New Day. The tag team fatal four-way match at Wrestlemania was one of the most exciting bouts on the entire card, and I’m confident that two of those teams can “steal the preshow” once again. Kidd and Cesaro appear to be getting over quite well as babyfaces with the fans, which works well when in contrast to The New Day. Try as they might, the trio of Kofi Kingston, Big E, and Xavier Woods aren’t winning any popularity contests on TV each week, and could be mere days away from a full heel turn. I wrote in my recent review of Smackdown that The New Day reminds of three overzealous Rocky Maivias, none of whom are willing to give up on their positive message.В
Educated Guess:В Kidd and Cesaro

Kiss My Arse Match
Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler
I have no idea when this match will occur, but I really couldn’t care any less about a “Kiss My Arse Match.” I’ve really enjoyed Sheamus since he’s returned to television; I don’t think that “he looks stu-pid,” but rather rugged with his Black Sails beard and Celtic Warrior anthem. But why is his first match back on pay-per-view a comically convoluted gimmick, wherein— not ONE, but both men—risk humiliation. I’m not a Dolph Ziggler mark as I've made clear on a number of occasions and I hope that this is a squash match to continue building Sheamus toward the main event title picture in the near future. I know a lot of people aren’t fond of Sheamus, but I think he has a far more positive upside than a “ten-year tenured” stand-up comedian with a penchant for stupid Tweets.
Educated Guess:В Sheamus

WWE Diva’s Championship
Nikki Bella (c) vs. Naomi
I’ve been buried in the past—both by readers and colleagues—for my continued commitment to Nikki Bella as WWE Diva’s Champion. It’s like this folks–it’s called the DIVA’S Championship. It’s not a women’s title or a lady’s wrestler’s belt. It’s the FUCKING DIVAS CHAMPIONSHIP. And who better to carry that butterfly belt than one of the most manipulative women on WWE Television? Nikki and her sister Brie play their characters perfectly—so well that even the smartest marks have convinced themselves that Nicole “sleeps her way to the top.” Just because she’s dating the top guy in the company, and holds the top women’s honor in mainstream American wrestling, doesn’t mean she’s a gold digger. It means she’s been a consummate and dedicated WWE employee for several years, and has earned the right to call herself champion. Is it Naomi’s time? I don’t believe so, but I can’t imagine any other champion dropping their belt on the show—so who really knows? I’ve enjoyed where Naomi’s character has gone in recent weeks and regardless of whether she wins the Diva’s championship, I think she’s well on her way to a more prominent run as a professional wrestler.
Educated Guess:В Nikki BellaВ

Last Man Standing Match
Roman Reigns vs. The Big Show
Does anybody care about this match in the slightest? I mean seriously. I will say that fans appear to be getting behind Roman Reigns now that he’s no longer a contender for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. But The Big Show? Really? I don’t care enough about this to make a prediction. I can only hope that Roman wins, because why does the Big Show need to defeat Roman Reigns in a "Last Man Standing" match on pay-per-view? Especially only one month removed from losing in the main event at Wrestlemania? Bray Wyatt isn't wrestling on this card, you guys know that right? I just realized Bray is more than likely calling out Roman Reigns. What do you guys think?
Educated Guess:В Roman Reigns

Chicago Street Fight
Dean Ambrose vs. Luke Harper
I’m not one of those fans that has a problem with all the “street fight” gimmicks. Yeah it gets kind of annoying every time there’s a “Manchester Melee,” or a “Los Angeles Alley Fight.” But the “Chicago Street Fight” dates back several decades. In fact, didn’t the original Nation of Domination engage in some sort of Chicago Street Fight against the Legion of Doom at Wrestlemania 13? I’ve been down on Dean Ambrose in the past, but I can’t hold anything against him in the brawling department, especially when paired with such a phenomenal star as Luke Harper. I hope that these two superstars take the fight around the arena so as to break up the monotony of stipulations, and give us something we wouldn't see otherwise. Dean Ambrose is probably going to lose because he always loses, which makes me wonder why anybody ever cheers for the guy. Seriously, look at the statistics in 2014 and tell me how many singles matches Dean Ambrose won on pay-per-view. No, go ahead—I'll wait.
Educated Guess:В Luke HarperВ

Russian Chain Match
WWE United States Championship
John Cena (c) vs. Rusev
I have to say that I’m probably most excited for this match—between John Cena and the former WWE United States Champion Alexander Rusev. I was talking with my “B+ Player” cohost Gary Mastriano a few months ago, about how the WWE doesn’t have any chain or strap matches anymore. Those were some of my favorites, particularly the "Dog Collar Match" between Roddy Piper and Greg Valentine, and the championship strap match with JBL and Eddie Guerrero. Given the level of violence, I attributed their absence to the dawn of the “PG Era.” So imagine the combination of joy and surprise I experienced when the challenge was issued for a “Russian Chain Match.” However, if you'll remember back to the “Flag Match” with Jack Swagger, we got something a little bit different than what we were used to in the past. So who’s to say this "Chain" match will follow anything resembling a previous precedent. For all we know, it's a regular match and the winner gets to hold the chain at the end. #TakeMyMoney
Educated Guess:В John Cena

Intercontinental Championship
Daniel Bryan (c) vs. Bad News BarrettВ
It would seem less and less likely that this match will even happen. Daniel Bryan hasn’t been very visible on television as of late and given his medical problems coming off of the European tour, I imagine it’s only a matter of weeks until he vacates his championship. It’s a shame that someone as talented as Daniel Bryan might be forced to retire at such a young age, but that burden can’t be placed on anyone other than the man himself. When Daniel returned from his most recent injury, he did absolutely nothing to curtail his performance inside the squared-circle. If Bryan does in fact defend his title against Bad News Barrett, it wouldn’t be a shock if the “British Bull Hammer” walked away with yet ANOTHER intercontinental championship. But would the WWE really do something like that in Chicago, in front of some of the most vocal fans on the planets? Time will tell, but I suggest they save the switch for a house show in Mystery, Alaska.
Educated Guess:В Daniel BryanВ

Cage Match/RKO is Banned
WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Seth Rollins (c) vs. Randy Orton
There’s no doubt in my mind that Seth Rollins is going to retain his WWE championship, but what else might go down during this main event wherein Kane will serve as the “Gatekeeper” to the cage door? I’ve really been loving Kane as of late, and think he’s been cutting some of the most powerful promos on television. His inclusion in this match isn’t as cumbersome as it might have been one year ago, and could in fact make for a dramatic conclusion. I think Kane and Seth Rollins are money if they’re booked opposite one another in a meaningful way; they can’t wrestle every week or even every month. Rather treat their rivalry like Shawn Michaels and the Undertaker. Seth needs to defend his title against all-comers, all the while he’s got this super natural menace lurking around every corner. My point is that Randy Orton is already a multiple time world champion and doesn’t need any more tally marks in his column until they start to mean something again. I think Seth is going to beat Randy, although I’m sure Orton will take the champion to his absolute limit.В
Educated Guess:В Seth RollinsВ

My Educated Guess? Uh—if you’re watching this show live, you’ve got nothing else to do this Sunday. I’m not making fun, because I don’t have anything to do and I’ll be watching “Extreme Rules” on the WWE Network. But if I had like… Anything else to do, I would probably save the show for Monday morning. And shame on anyone who’s still paying for this crap through their cable providers! I know you snarky internet fans like to act as though the ‘Network is a pile of shit and subscribing to it is just supporting the EVIL TRIPLE H—but it’s $9.99 a month for pay-per-views, NXT, and other original content. It’s TEN BUCKS for a pay-per-view versus SIXTY. Your indie wrestling pride isn’t worth a fifty dollar difference, especially if you’re breaking down and ordering the show on traditional cable every month anyway. You can spend the extra money on some hipster NJPW shirts, if that makes you feel better

This show is terribly predictable, and I can’t see any titles changing hands—unless the WWE decides to strip Bryan of his intercontinental title due to injury. And even then, do they really want to do that in the mid card of a Chicago show? If you think I’m way off base and you’re actually looking forward to “Extreme Rules,” I want to hear from you. I’m not always right and I welcome any and all comments both here at Cheap-Heat and on Twitter @TapeTraderz. Maybe I’m just so disenfranchised by the WWE that I’m blind to what they might be capable of. In which case I’ll certainly admit I was wrong on the “B+ Player Reaction Show” available Monday morning here at Cheap-Heat.com.