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http://www.cheap-heat.com WWE, TNA, ROH, NJPW - Blogs, Reviews, Top Lists, Indy News & Results Sun, 18 Oct 2015 05:06:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=4.3.1

http://www.cheap-heat.com/and-im-like-goin-old-school-in-wccw-january-8th-1983/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/and-im-like-goin-old-school-in-wccw-january-8th-1983/#comments Sun, 11 Oct 2015 17:13:43 +0000 Jake Drury Reviews WWE Network Reviews al madril Andre the Giant bill mercer brian adias Buddy Roberts Bugsy McGraw Confederate Flag Danny Manning Fabulous Freebirds jose lothario Kerry Von Erich king kong bundy Michael Hayes Terry Gordy wild bill irwin http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=14364 It’s 1983, which means some new stuff was happening in the world. Apple releases the Apple Lisa. The New Jersey transit police is created and Hawaiin volcano Kilauea erupts and still has not stopped. Karma Chameleon by Culture Club tops the charts in music. Return of the Jedi is the highest grossing movie of the year. World Series – Baltimore […]

It’s 1983, which means some new stuff was happening in the world. Apple releases theВ Apple Lisa . The New Jersey transit police is created and Hawaiin volcanoВ Kilauea erupts В and still has not stopped.

Boxing- Marvin Hagler retains his unified world Middleweight title with a 15 round unanimous decision over Roberto Durán . It was 1983's most anticipated bout.

Ok now that pop culture is out of the way. Now we go to Texas and see the aftermath of Star Wars!

Before the match begins, Bill Mercer interviews Buddy Roberts while Michael Hayes mugs for the camera. Mercer introduces us to the newest Freebird and Buddy says “What do you know? I’ve been with my boys a long time! Read a book!” Michael Hayes says “I didn’t get where I am and where I need to be with people clapping for me. We’re here and we are gonna stay here!”

Mercer starts calling the match and reiterates that Buddy Roberts is the new Freebird despite what he wants you to believe.

The match has headlock takeovers are traded back and forth. Poor Buddy, he is even with Brian Adias in wrestling ability.. Here is something we have yet to see on WCCW but seems to be a staple in many matches. The heel feels out matched so he wanders to the outside to catch his breath.

Buddy Roberts gains the advantage by brawling and then plain out wrestling Brian. Loud “Go, Brian, Go” chants. Brian pulls an Al Madril and closed fist punches Buddy in the face. Buddy settles things down with this weird arm move. Mercer calls Buddy a rough wrestler for doing this.

Mercer says “quite a skidmark on Brians left knee” Buddy won’t let go of the hold for rope break because as he told the ref “Adias pulled my hair.”

We are 10 minutes into the match and we only have two near-falls. It makes pin attempts mean something, it’s incredible to see. Crowd pops huge for these too. There are 30 seconds left, bunch of pin attempts, but its a time limit draw. Buddy Roberts says he is the best “just like Penn State” cause they won the championship in ’82.

And I’m Like… That’s a good showing of Buddy Roberts. Brian Adias is just not that good. I am excited to see more from Buddy though.

Bill Mercer takes us to The Fabulous Freebirds home to discuss what happened at Star Wars

Mercer points out the Georgia flag and Michael Hayes says “That’s right, Texas is the only state in the South that don’t fly the confederate flag” and “We’ve been running people over our whole lives, we are not what could have been or what should have been.” Hayes is up for a pool shot so Buddy Roberts rudely comes over.

В Mercer asks why Buddy wasn’t here for that six man tag Title match. “I wrestle when it’s necassary. Freebirds not only wrestle but we also have investments. I need to take care of these investments, you wearing a wire Bill.” Which to me seems that the Freebirds also run drugs. Bill keeps getting flustered and laughs.

В Terry Gordy walks over and starts talking. Hayes should thank God he is flashy cause Terry Gordy is hands down the best in this group. “I was the gatekeeper, my job was to make sure nobody came out of the cage, I kept Kerry from escaping AND he pushed Michael out the ring.” Mercer tries to interject but is shut down by Gordy “Bill this is my house, you listen to me.”

Freebirds are still getting cheers. Mercer on the crowds feelings of Hayes “some of them love him, some of them hate him.” That’s like John Cena!! Al warns the ref and Michael that he will used a closed fist. I am just gonna say that closed fist is not illegal all of a sudden. All the good guys use it, so let’s make it seem like they are playing by the rules.

В Hayes is wrestling way more cowardly than he was in other matches. Yep, Madril hit a closed fist on Hayes in front of the referee Bronko. Al also tries to set Michael up for theВ Shattered Dreams В but it doesn’t pan out.

В Michael hits a piledriver but doesn’t go for the pin. Mercer called the piledriver an atomic drop!! Hayes just punches and punches Madril until Jose Lothario shows up to get Michael Hayes the win by DQ.

В And I’m Like… Al is such a cheater, but now the rules changed where closed fist is legal. Jose Lothario tells Hayes “If you wanna fight, if you want a tough match, you got it.” Michael Hayes is so good at being bad you guys!

David Manning is being interviewed about the upcoming match. It’s a 6-man elimination match with the winner getting $5,000. Six guys will be in the ring, elimination by over the top rope, pin, or submission. Andre the Giant shows up and says “I am used to battle royals, six guys is easy”

‘Wild’ Bill Irwin vs. Bugsy McGraw vs. King Kong Bundy vs. Terry Gordy vs. Kerry Von Erich vs. Andre The Giant

Before the match starts, Kerry attacks Terry Gordy cause he is MAAAAD about the week before. Andre is not even in the ring and Kerry don’t care. Hayes grabs Von Erichs foot and distracts him long enough for Gordy to throw Kerry over the top rope.

В Bugsy and Andre team up to take out King Kong Bundy and Wild Bill. The Freebirds and Kerry are still brawling. Andre decides to go after Terry Gordy. He starts choking Gordy and Bundy has to jump off the middle rope to take down Andre. Bugsy got thrown out by Wild Bill and Bundy.

В В

Andre will not let go of Gordy though, he legit won’t stop choking Terry. Andre is on the ground, on his feet, getting beat up, all while choking Gordy. Wild Bill tries to take Andre off of Terry by forming a Human Headlock Centipede. Andre is able to fight off Wild Bill and King Kong Bundy and he goes right for Terry Gordy’s throat again. WHAT THE HELL did Terry do to Andre for this to happen? He must just see Terry as a threat. The kid is 22 and Andre won’t let him breathe.

Finally the heels take advantage by holding Andre’s arm like he was in the famousВ stuck in the rope spot . “Go Andre Go” fills the arena and the heels advantage lasts 30 seconds.

В В

Andre hits an atomic drop on Wild Bill Irwin for an elimination. Michael Hayes gets Andre’s attention by saving Gordy and chases Hayes, but first he eliminated himself to get to the outside. Gordy and Bundy just hoss it out for the rest of the match. Gordy throws Bundy over the top and takes a while to gain his breath after being choked for 20 minutes.

В And I’m Like… What an entertaining match, but at the same time not much happened. It’s amazing how the three biggest toughest guys in WCCW can’t hold Andre down. I really wanna know who decided that Andre will just choke Terry Gordy the whole time, I hope we get a storyline on it. We are shot over to Brian Adias, Kerry Von Erich, and Bill Mercer. Kerry Von Erich gets the mic to close the show out, and I’m like, don’t give him a mic. Here is what he said “I hopefully hope to God, Hayes will be Terry’s manager cause I’ll give him the Texas Tail Whoppin you’ve ever had in your life.”

I’m just finishing out a 17 hour workday if I count this blog. So I don’t got much for banter. I really like these shows though, if anyone grew up watching this or wants to talk about it please leave a comment.

Don’t forget to like, share, tweet, pin, or whatever there is going on to let people know this exists. It is like my payments, so those are always nice.

http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-iii/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-iii/#comments Fri, 11 Sep 2015 16:07:50 +0000 B+ Players CH Podcast Andre the Giant Bob Ueker Hulk Hogan Roddy Piper Vince McMahon Wrestlemania wrestling WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=14131 Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of Them All," the "Super Bowl of Wrestling," and of course "Showcase of the Immortals." We are just 32-weeks away from the biggest WrestleMania in WWE History; WrestleMania XXXII will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington Texas on April 3rd […]

Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of Them All," the "Super Bowl of Wrestling," and of course "Showcase of the Immortals." We are just 32-weeks away from the biggest WrestleMania in WWE History; WrestleMania XXXII will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington Texas on April 3 ^rd 2016. While there's always been some concern as to the legitimacy of WWE's attendance figures in the past, this event is almost guaranteed to break all pre-existing records. Join Mark Adam Haggerty of Daily Wrestling News and Gary Mastriano of Cheap-Heat for this one-of-a-kind podcast series featuring guests from all walks of life including comedians, musicians, and most importantly— professional wrestlers! We'll be back every Friday with an in depth look at each and every WrestleMania from the action in the ring, to the stories behind the scenes.

Wrestlemania III is perhaps the most iconic wrestling event in the history of the sport. Taking place on March 29, 1987 before a reported 93,173 fans, this was the first ‘Mania to be available on pay-per-view. The main event features Hulk Hogan defending the world title against the then-undefeated Andre the Giant. In addition, this is the event wherein Ricky the Dragon Steamboat defeated Macho Man Randy Savage, Brutus Beefcake was christened “the Barber,” and Bob Ueker remained on the hunt for the Fabulous Moolah. Enjoy clips and behind the scenes stories from one of the biggest wrestling events of all time!

B+ Player Radio is a network of professional wrestling podcasts produced by writers, comedians, musicians, and most importantly— professional wrestlers! Listen to hours of exclusive content available every single week on iTunes – TuneIn Radio – SoundCloud – Stitcher – YourListen – or RIGHT HERE at Cheap-Heat.com !

Questions or Comments? Follow the B+ Players on Social Media!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/top-20-world-champions-longest-combined-title-reigns/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/top-20-world-champions-longest-combined-title-reigns/#comments Mon, 09 Mar 2015 05:09:27 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Top Lists Andre the Giant AWA Batista Bob Backlund Bret Hart Brock Lesnar bruno sammartino Buddy Rogers Chris Benoit CM Punk Dave Batista Dick Hutton Dory Funk Jr. Dusty Rhodes Eric Bischoff GCW Gene Kiniski Georgia Championship Wrestling Harley Race HHH Hulk Hogan Iron Sheik Jack Brisco Jim Neidhart John Cena Lou Thesz Macho Man Mick Foley National Wrestling Alliance Nature Boy NWA Orville Brown Pat O'Connor Randy Orton Randy Savage Ric Flair Sonny Myers Ted DiBiase The Hitman Triple H WCW Wrestlemania WWE WWF WWWF http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=10279 Top 20 World Champions: Longest Combined Title Reigns Written by Mark Adam Haggerty Nowadays you'll hear wrestling superstars throughout various promotions tout unrivaled success as their title reigns grow longer by the day. The WWE keeps a record of who's held their world championship the longest, however that list includes neither the WCW nor NWA […]

Top 20 World Champions:
Longest Combined Title Reigns
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

Nowadays you'll hear wrestling superstars throughout various promotions tout unrivaled success as their title reigns grow longer by the day. The WWE keeps a record of who's held their world championship the longest, however that list includes neither the WCW nor NWA World Heavyweight titles. In some cases, it doesn't even include the WWE's own retired big gold belt, the world heavyweight championship. Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Mark Adam Haggerty and after I added the missing championships to the WWE's current list, I came up with a surprising "Top 20 World Champions: Longest Combined Title Reigns."

Note: This list includes all WWE world titles including but not limited to: WWWF Championship, WWF Championship, WWF Undisputed Championship, WWE Championship, World Heavyweight Championship, and the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. It also includes the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, as well as the NWA World Heavyweight Championship from its inception in 1948 until September 13, 1993 when World Championship Wrestling left the National Wrestling Alliance. I do not include any TNA/NWA world title reigns, nor current NWA activities involving wrestlers like Rob Conway or Adam Pearce. Sorry.

20. Dave Batista – 544 Days
"The Animal" made his wrestling debut in 2000 and after defeating Triple H at Wrestlemania 21 in 2005, embarked on a championship career that would include six world title reigns. With (2) WWE and (4) WWE World titles to his name, Dave Batista's combined 544 days as champion is just three days shy of exactly one and a half years. He might be last on our list, but he'll go down in history for his longevity as champion.

19. Brock Lesnar – 558 Days and counting…
Brock Lesnar is a highly-decorated multi-sport athlete who entered the WWE in 2002. He became the youngest champion in history, and left the company shortly thereafter to pursue other interests. He returned to the WWE in 2012, where he is currently the reigning World Heavyweight Champion. "The Beast" Brock Lesnar never held the "Big Gold Belt," but his (4) distinct WWE title runs have helped earn him a lasting place in history. Just 15 days shy of #18, it is assumed that Brock Lesnar will move up the ranks regardless of what happens at Wrestlemania 31.

18. "Macho Man" Randy Savage – 573 Days
Randy "Macho Man" Savage won his first world championship after defeating Ted DiBiase in a one-night tournament at Wrestlemania IV. He would lose the gold after a year to Hulk Hogan, and go on to capture it once more before leaving the WWE for supposedly greener pastures. While signed to WCW, the "Macho Man" was positioned as the champion on a number of occasions, winning his first title at World War 3 in 1995. Over the course of his twenty years in the ring, the Macho Man amassed six world titles, (2) in the WWE and (4) in WCW.

17. "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers – 595 Days
Vince McMahon's favorite wrestler is Buddy Rogers, but unfortunately, the first-ever WWE World Heavyweight Champion only held his title for a measly 22 days before being vanquished by Bruno Sammartino. But when taking his reign as NWA World Champion into account, suddenly the original "Nature Boy" is back in the game. For over a year and a half, Buddy Rogers controlled the most prestigious world title in wrestling, and set his 573-day record with just (1) NWA championship run.

16. CM Punk – 622 Days
The longest reigning champion in modern WWE would most certainly be CM Punk who held onto his WWE Heavyweight title for an unprecedented 434 days. While lasting so long without losing one's belt is groundbreaking in itself, added to his (3) world championships, the (2-time) WWE champion has been at the top of the WWE for 622 days. Although no longer competing in the squared circle, it could be quite some time before anybody, past or present, surpasses the leader of the "Straight Edge Society."

15. Orville Brown – 692 Days
Orville Brown defeated Sonny Myers in January 1948 to become the first-ever NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He grew up on a farm in Kansas where he only attended school for one year, because his family couldn't afford anything else. An amateur wrestling manager noticed Orville toward the end of the 1920s, and thought he might have a future as a professional. Orville debuted in 1929 and after nearly 20 years of success, was honored by the newly established National Wrestling Alliance. Orville was just a (1-time) champion, but held onto the strap for 692 days before dropping it to Lou Thesz in November 1949.

14. Bret "The Hitman" Hart – 710 Days
The most prolific championship contender of my childhood was none other than "The Hitman" himself. Bret Hart entered the WWE as an afterthought and quickly climbed the tag team ranks alongside his brother-in-law Jim Neidhart. By 1992, Bret was already a 2-time intercontinental champion and well on his way to winning the world title. He captured the WWE World Heavyweight Champion for the first time in 1992 after defeating Ric Flair, and would go on to become a (5-time) WWE champion, as well as (2-time) world champion with WCW.

13. Randy Orton – 748 Days
The first competitor on our countdown to reach 2-years as champion is the "Legend Killer" Randy Orton. Randy Orton won his first World Heavyweight Champion in 2004 by defeating Chris Benoit to become the youngest World Champion up until that time. Orton has surpassed all expectations during his 15-year career on top of the WWE. He has headlined countless events as a twelve-time heavyweight champion—a (4-time) recipient of the Big Gold Belt, and (8-time) WWE heavyweight title holder.

12. Jack Brisco – 866 Days
The Hall of Fame Brisco Brothers were a formidable tag team and pair of promotors who ran Georgia Championship Wrestling. While the WWE Universe is far more familiar with Gerry, his big brother Jack was the one who held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship an astonishing 866 days. Brisco won the belt from Harley Race after some questionable politics from the Funk Family, but went on to prove himself worthy as a (2-time) NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

11. Pat O'Connor – 903 Days
Throughout the storied legacy of the National Wrestling Alliance, New Zealand-native Pat O'Connor was only the fifth man to be trusted enough to carry the championship belt. He defeated Dick Hutton on January 9, 1959 and proceeded to hold his championship until dropping it to Buddy Rogers in the summer of 1961. O'Connor was caught between promotors in 1960 when Verne Gagne withdrew from the NWA and named O'Connor his champion. Pat O'Connor never defended the AWA belt, and maintained his loyalty as (1-time) NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

10. Gene Kiniski – 1,131 Days
Gene Kiniski spent forty years inside the squared-circle and is still one of the most recognizable wrestlers in the history of the business. What's most impressive about Kiniski's unprecedented 1,131 days as champion, is that he did it without losing his title once. That's right—Gene Kiniski is a (1-time) NWA World Heavyweight title holder and the first man on our countdown to break three years as champion. Gene beat Lou Thesz on January 7, 1966 in St. Louis, Missouri. Thesz would never hold the championship again, but Gene Kiniski successfully defended it until being bested by Dory Funk Jr. on February 11, 1969.

9. Triple H – 1,155 Days
Former (13-time) World Heavyweight Champion Triple H has more to worry about these days than winning and losing matches, as he was recently elected to the WWE Board of Directors. But that's not to say his 1,155 days as champion weren't something to be proud of. Triple H first won the WWF World Heavyweight Champion in August of 1999 from Mick Foley, and has since set the record for third-most title reigns with thirteen. He was gifted the "Big Gold Belt" by Eric Bischoff and became a (5-time) World Heavyweight Champion; along with being a former (8-time) WWE title holder, Triple H has ruled as WWE champion for more than three years.

8. John Cena – 1,394 Days
Despite his divisive effect on wrestling fans around the world, nobody can deny the success John Cena has enjoyed over the past ten years. Coming in at number eight, Cena is the highest-ranking current wrestler on our countdown and holds the record for second-most title reigns with fifteen. His first championship came at Wrestlemania 21 in 2005 and his most recent run as title holder was during the summer of 2015. He is a (3-time) World Heavyweight Champion AKA the "Big Gold Belt," as well as a (12-time) WWE World Heavyweight Champion. It's safe to assume John Cena will be champion again, and if he can hang onto the belt for 169 days, he'll be sure to move up to number seven.

7. Dory Funk Jr. – 1,563 Days
Another man who earned his hallowed reputation as a (1-time) NWA World Heavyweight Champion was the man who defeated the record-setting Gene Kiniski in 1969, the incomparable Dory Funk Jr. The Funk Family is noted for having the only set of sibling champions in NWA history, Dory and his younger brother Terry. The Family was led by beloved patriarch Dory Sr. who sought to establish his sons as the premiere professional wrestlers in the industry. Dory's 1,563 days as champion lasted from 1969 to 1973, and is the second-longest uninterrupted NWA title reign in history.

6. Harley Race – 1,799 Days
Commonly regarded as the toughest man in the business, Harley Race is also among the most decorated and respected individuals to ever enter a wrestling ring. Former (8-time) NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Harley Race managed to maintain his rule as leader of the locker room for 1,799 days. He was contributory in passing the torch to deserving new stars throughout his career such as Jack Brisco, Dusty Rhodes, and Ric Flair. Harley will be fondly remembered for his stint as "King Harley Race" in the WWE, but it's the tattooed, gravelly-voiced ass-kicker from Kansas City that will leave the most-lasting impression.

5. Bob Backlund – 2,138 Days
Bob Backlund came about during a time when professional wrestling had hit an all-time low. The "Bruno-Era" was long-gone and Hulkamania was still six years away. Bob Backlund is a (2-time) WWE World Heavyweight Champion, who first won the honor by defeating "Superstar" Billy Graham in 1978. Backlund won the belt again sixteen years later when he defeated Bret Hart under questionable circumstances, but only managed to hold the championship for three days. Therefore it's his unbroken 2,135 days as champion from 1978 to 1983 that earned Bob Backlund a place in the WWE Hall of Fame.

4. Hulk Hogan – 3,362 Days
Hulk Hogan is perhaps the most successful professional wrestler in history, as his career spanned nearly 30 years and included a dozen world championship honors. Hulk Hogan's first run as WWE World Heavyweight Champion began in 1984 when he defeated the dastardly Iron Sheik. His first reign would last over four years, culminating in a storyline with Andre the Giant and Ted DiBiase. Hogan was a (6-time) WWE World Heavyweight Champion including a final run when he returned in 2002. In addition, Hogan is a (6-time) WCW World Heavyweight Champion, and is the longest reigning WCW champion in history.

3. "Nature Boy" Ric Flar – 3,722 Days
He's not just a "Jet-Flyin' Limousine Rider," he's the record-setting 20-time World Heavyweight Champion, the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair. Contrary to WWE documentation, Ric Flair's (10) NWA (8) WCW and (2) WWE World Heavyweight Championship titles total TWENTY—not SIXTEEN. Ric Flair is perhaps the most decorated wrestler in all of professional wrestling—in addition to his championship accolades, his career has spanned over 40-years, and he is currently the only 2-time WWE Hall of Famer. His (20) World Heavyweight Championships have totaled 3,722 days—nearly 7 times-as-many days as the last person on our list.

2. Lou Thesz – 3,749 Days
Just 291 days shy of the all-time record, Lou Thesz is the second-longest reigning World Heavyweight Champion in professional wrestling history. As (3-time) NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Lou Thesz was on top of the industry for an astronomical 3,749 days—or just over ten years. He holds the record for both combined championship title reigns as well as single uninterrupted periods as champion for the National Wrestling Alliance. Thesz influenced an entire generation of performers and transcended the "Golden Age" of the sport to help establish a new era for professional wrestling.

1. Bruno Sammartino – 4,040 Days
The WWE is right about one thing—Bruno Sammartino is without question the longest reigning World Heavyweight Champion in history. Sammartino immigrated to the United States from Italy in the hopes of capturing the "American Dream," and instead won the world title, which he held for over eleven years. Bruno entered the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013—fifty years removed from first becoming world champion in 1963. Bruno's historic 4,040 day record is comprised of only (2) WWE World Heavyweight title reigns, the first of which lasted 2,803 days.

Will anybody ever come close to Bruno's record, or is Dave Batista's 544-days more attainable for today's Superstars? I think it's interesting that while there are only a handful of modern-day wrestlers on the countdown, all four members of Evolution made the cut. I hope you enjoyed this leisurely stroll through history—until next time this has been Mark Adam Haggerty, reminding you to keep checking out Cheap-Heat and to follow me on Facebook by LIKING "Mark Haggerty's Pro Wrestling."

http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-highlight-of-the-night-the-top-moments-from-raw-5/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-highlight-of-the-night-the-top-moments-from-raw-5/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2015 23:54:34 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Other Reviews Reviews Top Lists Alundra Blayze Andre the Giant Axelmania Bad News Barrett Batista BNB Booker T Bray Wyatt British Bulldogs Brock Lesnar Bushwhackers CM Punk Curtis Axel Daily Show Daniel Bryan Dolph Ziggler Hart Foundation HHH J&J Security John Cena Jon Stewert Lana Luke Harper Macho Man Madusa NWA R-Truth Randy Orton RAW Rey Mysterio Rikishi Roman Reigns Rusev Seth Rollins Smackdown Stephanie McMahon Sting Strike Force Superstars TNA Triple H Undertaker Wade Barrett WCW Wrestlemania WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=10176 The Highlight of the Night The Top Moments from Raw Written by Mark Adam Haggerty Wrestlemania is only four weeks away, and tonight's episode of Monday Night Raw emanated from my home—the GARDEN STATE of New Jersey! Of course now I live on the West Coast and was in Las Vegas for Ring of Honor […]

The Highlight of the Night
The Top Moments from Raw
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

Wrestlemania is only four weeks away, and tonight's episode of Monday Night Raw emanated from my home—the GARDEN STATE of New Jersey! Of course now I live on the West Coast and was in Las Vegas for Ring of Honor when all of my friends were heading to the Prudential Center, but I dare say this was the best episode of Raw since the start of the New Year. I'm certainly apprehensive about the upcoming "Grand Daddy of Them All," but if the next three weeks follow tonight's lead, I think we'll be in good shape by the time the "Road to Wrestlemania" ends right here in California. New Jersey has always been a hotbed for independent wrestling, and I think this episode was staggered in a way so that it appealed to the die-hard fans in Newark. My name is Mark Adam Haggerty, with you as always to deliver my "Highlight of the Night"—The Top Moments from Raw. Let's get started with a very special HONORABLE MENTION …

Honorable Mention
Aside from the "Macho Man" Randy Savage, this year's Hall of Fame class leaves quite a bit to be desired. Arnold Schwarzenegger is being advertised based on his one-night appearance on Smackdown in 1999, rather than his close relationship with Superstar Billy Graham and other WWWF Superstars during the 1970s and �80s. The Bushwhackers will always hold a special place in my heart, but can't compare to the British Bulldogs, Strike Force, the Hart Foundation or any number of other teams from that era, who are not in the Hall. Rikishi most certainly deserves the honor, and I'm happy his sons have been tasked with inducted him, but is Rikishi really a big enough name to be the second biggest induction of the year? Tonight the WWE announced another name for this year's class of 2015—a woman who not only belongs in the Hall of Fame, but probably should have gone in long before Trish Stratus and Lita. Of course I'm talking about Madusa AKA Alundra Blayze. I honestly thought that she was blacklisted by the WWE, but I guess that's not the case. Congratulations to the former 3-time WWF Women's champion—I can't wait to see who inducts her in Santa Clara.

5. Bray's Burning Casket
Cheap-Heat's Gary Mastriano is a very talented wrestling journalist, who also happens to be one of my oldest friends—but Gary and I are divided as to how this year's Undertaker storyline is set to play out. When Bray Wyatt appeared in the Undertaker's casket at Fastlane, I received a text from Gary that read: "So am I supposed to be excited by the Undertaker?" Meanwhile, I'm marking out just as much as my first name might suggest. I think this could be a really cool program, however I can certainly understand why Gary has his reservations. The Undertaker has had consistent contests at every Wrestlemania from 23 with Batista, up until 29 against CM Punk. Unfortunately, the "Dead Man's" last outing was such a disappointment that hundreds upon thousands of self-proclaimed "Creatures of the Night" are now turning on the idea of "one more match." Regardless of whether you're excited to see the "Phenom" square off against the "Eater of Worlds," Wyatt has been highly impressive since starting down this path, especially tonight when he set fire to the casket he constructed in honor of the Undertaker. Might we get some sort of stipulation, such as a Casket Match? Will we see the Undertaker before Wrestlemania, or will he save his return for Levi Stadium? Bray's character is so much more defined than the rest of the roster, which could come easier for Superstars playing specific roles, such as a backwoods cult leader in a rocking chair. I'm excited to see how the next three weeks of Raw will go now that Bray Wyatt has already torched one of the Undertaker's signature symbols, and look forward to their meeting on March 29th.

4. The IC Title Belt
Various historians will suggest that the Intercontinental Championship is the most prestigious singles title in the WWE, and while that might have been true once-upon-a-time, the current state of the belt is questionable at best . I remember a six-year period lasting from 2003 until 2008, where the IC championship wasn't defended at Wrestlemania. That's ridiculous—especially when research uncovers an eleven-year streak of defenses broken only by the "Hollywood Backlot Brawl" at Wrestlemania 12. I think it was probably the influx of WCW championships, such as the Cruiserweight and U.S. titles, that watered down the IC belt. When the roster was split, I imagine pushing the Intercontinental Champion as a main eventer might have been the better route to take, rather than introducing a SECOND world championship. All that being said, I think we COULD be on the verge of a new era for the white leather IC belt. Just because the title wasn't defended at one third of all Wrestlemanias, doesn't mean there haven't been an enormity of stellar champions since, including Chris Jericho, Shelton Benjamin, and even Dolph Ziggler. The shenanigans revolving around the "stolen" title belt aside, the opening matchup between Ambrose and Barrett did more than just offer a comedic outlet for R Truth, it introduced each of the key players going forward. I think everyone involved, including the former NWA world champion R Truth, has a good shot at becoming the next champion. I don't want Ambrose to win, as I feel both he and Barrett are the kind of unestablished talent that's tainted the title, especially as Wade has held the belt what—FOUR times, already? Dolph Ziggler and Luke Harper are both incredibly talented workers, either of whom I would be happy to see walk out of Santa Clara holding the championship title high. But truth be told, as much as I love Ron Killings, there's no plausible finish that doesn't include Daniel Bryan wearing the belt, leading 70,000 fans in a "Yes" chant. If the WWE plans to build the U.S. championship with John Cena, then who better to bring back a level of dignity to another historic title belt than Daniel Bryan? I also imagine the WWE isn't interested in another mutiny should Bryan fail to win a big match, particularly at Wrestlemania 31. The intercontinental championship might be a consolation prize for now, but I predict exponential growth for the title and its future holders, mainly due to the countless number of NXT stars set to break through to the main roster.

3. Axelmania!
I pick a lot of my moments based on what they represent, or what they might lead to later on—but this was truly a must-see moment that I dare say isn't going to lead anywhere. John Cena came out and addressed the Newark audience, talking about how he wants to wrestle Rusev at �Mania, but will instead enter his name in the "Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal." This doesn't sit well with Stephanie McMahon for SOME reason—did Cena say anything disrespectful? I understood the idea of Stephanie taking offense to Cena throwing around a name like Andre, but he didn't do it in a blasphemous way. He simply stated that he would be entering the �Battle Royal. The back and forth between the fourth-generation McMahon and the fifteen time world champion was outstanding; I love it when Stephanie gets on her moral high horse in situations like this, suggesting that Cena can't just announce he's in a match—"since when do Superstars book their own matches?" This continued until the BIGGEST pop of the night; as Cena argued with Stephanie, the music hit and Curtis Axel appeared, wearing a Hulkamania-style t-shirt with "Axel" replacing "Hulk." What really moved me about this segment was a combination of how over Curtis Axel was, and how great he came across on the microphone. He's clearly been rehearsing in the mirror, as he didn't slip or stumble, and made every word count in making the overture to challenge John Cena at Wrestlemania. Personally, I would really like to see that match—not more than Cena vs. Rusev II, but I think there's true potential in an Axel/Cena squabble, especially if John Cena can capture the U.S. championship. Axel was in the zone, as he mimicked Hulk Hogan's mannerisms PERFECTLY . But John Cena wasn't done talking just because he was set to compete. In a calm and cool tone, Cena warned Curtis that he should really get out of the ring, because if the match starts, he "will not walk out." The match was a squash, but the story of the segment was the shirt-ripping and pandering by Axel. I'll admit that I've been down on this guy since he split from Paul Heyman, but given his extraordinary pedigree, I think we've just now started to see what the "Axe Man" is capable of.

2. Triple H Fires Booker T
While the showdown between Triple H and Sting is sure to be the biggest match at �Mania, I'm not 100% confident in the way that WWE is structuring their rivalry. For one thing, WCW closed FOURTEEN years ago—why is this program based on WWF's feud with World Championship Wrestling? I think there's a story to be told based on what Booker suggested in the ring with Hunter; perhaps the reason Sting never signed has more to do with the political atmosphere in the WWE, rather than his desire to continue on with the NWA. There's been a lot of rumors in the past about Hunter and his "friends" burying talent before they have a chance to get over, so there's certainly a chance Triple H didn't want Steve Borden stealing his spotlight in 2001. With Rey Mysterio now gone, Booker T is the last vestige of WCW, outside of the U.S. championship, so it makes all the sense in the world for him to get involved in a WCW storyline. I thought Triple H's promo was really good, and it helped fill in the gaps between 2001 and the upcoming match at �Mania. I wasn't sure what to expect when Triple H "fired" Booker T. Obviously he wasn't really fired, this isn't TNA—people aren't terminated on television when they least expect it. But I didn't think he was going to invite Book' back to the announce desk so soon. I thought for sure he would have let the �Universe believe that he fired Booker T, only to have him return the following week. But I guess it worked as a part of what Triple H was trying to convey, and that is the greatest extent of his power in the WWE. I hope to hear from Sting before the match, perhaps he'll have some incite as to how the past fourteen years have been for him as an outsider looking in. I think it's safe to say Sting will go over at Wrestlemania, he'll probably hang around the roster for a year, wrestle Undertaker in Dallas, and go into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2016.

1. "The Daily Show" starring Seth Rollins
It's funny how celebrity involvement works in professional wrestling; oftentimes outside personalities get booed off the stage, as was the case with Kathie Lee and Hoda during their Susan G. Komen cross-promotional appearance. But sometimes a guest clicks in a way that even the most ardent internet fans are impressed, and that's what we had tonight with the Daily Show's Jon Stewart. I was confused as to how a TV show from a Viacom network might interact with Universal properties, but was pleasantly surprised when I heard the official Daily Show theme, and saw a pretty convincing mock-set. Seth was pretty entertaining, and made me laugh on occasion with his routine jabs at Jon Stewart's success as a film director. I respect Jon Stewart because he's obviously a wrestling fan. Both he and his pal Adam Sandler can be seen at multiple events on either side of the country. When Jon listed some of the most influential names in history, such as Bruno, Hogan, and Austin, he clearly knew what he was talking about, which made me trust what he had to say relating to Seth's position at Wrestlemania. Leave it to a comedian to get to the point—"What has the Authority done for Seth Rollins?" As Jon said, it's not Seth in the main event at Wrestlemania, it's not Seth challenging for the world title, and no matter what, it won't be Seth who reigns supreme in California. I really liked the brutal honesty from Stewart, playing Devil's advocate, even suggesting that Seth Rollins might be too good for the Authority. I especially enjoyed Stewart's repartee with J&J Security—I imagine the "Katzenjammer Kids" reference went well over the head of the WWE Universe. In the end, Jon Stewart walked the line of sensibility to perfection; he didn't engage in an official match such as Seth Green, but he also didn't half-ass his appearance as did Al Sharpton. He came to Monday Night Raw with a purpose, and that was to use his enormous celebrity to enhance the developing program between Randy Orton and Seth Rollins. He wasn't there to push a book, or a movie, or even his upcoming comedy special that was mentioned in passing after his appearance. Following the low-blow to Rollins, Jon Stewart ran up the ramp swinging his jacket in victory. When he got to the back, he gave the best interview of the night, frantically inquiring whether or not he was safe backstage. Jon Stewart proved tonight that he is more than just a celebrity, he is a member of the WWE Universe, and for one night , he was a SUPERSTAR!

I'm still not sure what kind of main event to expect out of Brock Lesnar, an unpredictable world champion with no contract in place after �Mania, and Roman Reigns, who has yet to connect with the WWE Universe. I'm quite impressed with the WWE's effort in building up the undercard in such a dynamic way. About three months ago I started writing an article about John Cena as IC champion, and how a Superstar of his magnitude could positively influence the title. I ended up scrapping the idea however, as Cena is now challenging for the U.S. belt and Daniel Bryan is in the intercontinental hunt. I'll be the first to admit that the WWE's current landscape is littered with potholes and pitfalls, but it reminds me of that old saying—about breaking eggs to make an omelet? I think I'll leave you with that. Until next week this has been Mark Adam Haggerty reminding you to keep checking out Cheap-Heat and to follow me on Facebook by LIKING "Mark Haggerty's Pro Wrestling."

http://www.cheap-heat.com/my-top-10-grievances-for-wwe-2k15-the-video-game/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/my-top-10-grievances-for-wwe-2k15-the-video-game/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2015 02:49:43 +0000 Bill Wright Blogs Other Blogs Top Lists 2K15 Adrian Neville Andre the Giant CM Punk Dean Ambrose Goldberg Hall of Fame HBK HHH John Cena N64 New Age Outlaws No Mercy NXT Pyscho Sid RAW Roman Reigns Rusev Sami Zayn Seth Rollins Shawn Michaels Sid Sid Justice Smackdown The Shield THQ Triple H Ultimate Warrior WCW WWE Yokozuna http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=9044 I know this isn’t a gaming site but WWE 2k15 is the latest installment in WWEs flagship gaming franchise.В Back in 2001 Thq/Aki finished their partnership with No Mercy on the N64. For years to come wrestling games would fall short and then it seemed THQ finally started to hit their stride in Smackdown vs Raw […]

I know this isn’t a gaming site but WWE 2k15 is the latest installment in WWEs flagship gaming franchise.В Back in 2001 Thq/Aki finished their partnership with No Mercy on the N64.

For years to come wrestling games would fall short and then it seemed THQ finally started to hit their stride in Smackdown vs Raw 2007.В Then THQ goes under and 2k picks the ball up and runs with it in 2k14 which I would argue was the best wrestling game since No Mercy.В Then comes the chance to really shine with their first Next Gen entry, and a shot at showing us how much better it can get.
Enter 2k15, the most disappointing sequal I have seen in years.

So let ud go in to the top ten reasons 2k and the transferees from THQ in this development team should be fed to Ryback.В In no particular order by the way so feel free to comment below and join the greivence party, or defen your 2k heroes.

#10 Smallest Roster In Years
I am not going to make this a huge list of every year before and how it character for character pales in comparison. В I will say last year saw Goldberg, Warrior, Andre and Yokozuna.В While the new additions of the Wyatts and a staggering 5 nXt wrestlers are nice, they hardly fill the void left by all the cuts this year.

Not to mention the Shield wasn’t given updated looks or music, and the New Age Outlaws who had a run through Mania and were in 2013 were not added this year.

It makes me wonder why NFL games have hundreds of names and even at times former year rosters, but WWE struggles to hit 90?В In my opinion there is no excuse to not offer every Hall of Famer, every Legends contract talent, and every single nXt and WWE star on contract.

It feels to me very lazy and a cheap way to keep milking your fans which will only tolerat that for so long.В Play Skyrim or Red Dead Redemption or GTA, then play 2k15 and tell me which one feels like a $70 game to you.В WWE games should build on what they deliver, and sadly this is just the start of our loss.

#9 Creation Suite Beatdown
Ok, so first they give us a Create a Finisher and say that any move you want to make you can.В But you can’t even make a Flip Piledriver?В Then they give us the Flip Piledriver but take away the Create a Finisher mode?В What you took away the Belt Creation too?В Stop taking stuff away… WHAT?!В You mean the Story Creator is gone too?В So what is left, Arenas and Create a Wrestler?В It is like they stripped this Suite to the bones, then cut back on how many slots you can work with.

If I want 800 Created Characters shouldnt I be able to?В Why are you crushing all my dreams 2k… Why?

#8 No New Matches
This year we had Three Stages of Hell, Lumberjack Match, and a solid Survivor Series.В Which one would you like to relive?В Doesn’t matter cause you get no new matches, and you can forget the Ambulance and Casket matches in prior games.В 2k15 offers no new matches and barely touches the existing mode.

Why is it if all characters on game share the same move database, but while football games have whole teams going, wrestling can’t even match the 8 characters in the ring the f’n Dreamcast allowed.

We want 8 man tag matches, and Survivor Series.В I mean sure a 30 man rumble would be tough but even FPS games allow 16 online.
I am not buying the excuses guys, this is lazy!

#7 Glitches Welcome
Ok maybe I am being a little demanding on additions. I don’t feel at all unreasonable on the cuts. But for gosh sakes atleast get what you are doing right. Glitches everywhere even worse than 14!

I can almost never connect with Nevilles running basement dropkick, CM Punks swinging neckbreaker has more than once melted wrestlers together.В I have seen chairs have siezures, and collisions cause wrestlers to vanish through the ring or into the crowd never to be seen again (in that match).

I can’t stand having grade A matches that I have to reset because your glitches are so bad they crash my system… Even happened back to back once.

#6 OMG with the OMGs
I love OMG moments, I hate needing 3 to hit signature moves for Reigns and Zayn.В Sure I get 3 needed to Showplex the ring into oblivion, even 3 to do the unmerciful Superplex to the outside.В But I have to save up 3 to do moves Reigns and Zayn are known for, and I don’t even get to save a 4th finisher so I can hit the spear after the running apron dropkick?

Prime example, CM Punk does the high knee / line in the corner to what?В Oh yea set up for theflying elbow, which in this game is also a signature!В So unless I go and edit the moves myself (doing your job for you) then I can’t replicate the spot consecutively.

Pay attention guys. And while I am at it, you had some great OMG additions for signature characters but nothing new as a shared enviroment OMG like the Wyatt steel step assault or stage dives.В But what bothers me the most is you can’t give OMGs including dives to any CAW.В Not adding more I can let slide but the triple finisher crap and no CAW OMG is just aggrevating.

#5 :F’ Your nXt Gen
All wrestlers start out as Marks, so as a independent wrestler with 7 championship regins, two of which I never lost, I have no shame in sayin I am an nXt Mark.В With that being said, I hoped that with Attitude Era honored in 2013 and Wrestlemania honored in 2014, that maybe 2k15 would be the nXt year.

Sadly we only got 5 nXt wrestlers, one of which is retired (Graves) and two of which are off nXt and on Raw anyways (Rusev, Dallas).В So the DLC might help but oh yeah more guys that are already on Raw (Rose & Ascension).

That is right kids we got a new career mode where you train with Bill Demot and go from nXt to Hall of Fame!В But you gotta own the next gen console or you can settle for our lame watered down version.В No presentation, no historical videoes, not even a satisfying reward!В Yep, old console means not only are we taking from last year but you won’t get most of our new stuff.

#4 Menues aren’t Rocket Science
For years this has bothered me. But why do you make the menu system so rough? В I mean the main menu isn’t bad but if you start getting in to character creation, wow. В It takes forever to find the moves you want, or taunts due to large lists with no search option, and no logic in sub categories.В I mean you want 18 Pilesdrivers, Awesome!В Let me pick the Piledriver as the move and then pick the version in a subcategory.

Also give something to help us indentify your generic movesets.В I mean we all know the presets are for characters like Kurt Angle, Jeff Hardy or Goldberg. В So call one Enigma, Olympian, and Da Man!В Nope, you gotta give us 20 presets and we gotta check each finisher to identify?

Lastly the belts, come on.let us pick the WWE Belt and submenu option to change skin to WWE, WWE Undisputed, Cena Spinner etc. They don’t need a seperate alot making the worlds longest list of slight modified versions.

Seriously do you guys have meetings where you try to make things harder, or have piss off the fans conference calls?

#3 DLC Madness
I love DLCs when done right. Like GTA 5, buy our Season Pass and get everythin… And loads of neew cars, guns, missions etc!
But not 2k, no you owes us $24.99 for Paige and the Showcase storylines for… Wait for it… Mark Henry and Christian? В I like both guys but you take us from CM Punk vs Cena and Triple H vs HBK to highlighting not one but two guys who never held the WWE Championship?

Oh and the WCW, and nXt packs are extra?В Oh and the extra moves, oh and both Stings and both Hogans, and the Accelerator are all extra on top of that?

Ok now I am just furious, and for heaven sake why cant we just pick entrances when you select costume for the character?В I mean Alberto Del Rio never in the four years he had been in WWE… Ever changed his moves!В Why for heaven sake do we have two Del Rios?

Just let us pick the costume and entrance and if you really want, pick a move set but there is no reason to make us suffer so many clones!В We want more characters not multiple Del Rios! ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING TO YOUR

#2: 5 Million New Animations… Not!!!
Ya they said 5 times the animations, I don’t see it.В Not saying I don’t like what they added in, but it feels well under the promise.
Sure the new moves feel great when not glitching, but hype is to be lived up to and this falls under par in my opinion.
And taking ou ability to make the moves you forgot, well that is just salt in the wound.
But hey if you want another Sister Abigail, well you can buy it with the other moves we will make you pay for as we under deliver on the multitide we promised.

#1 Sid Justice
Wait he is a DLC manager and not playable… I give up. Excuse me whilst I crawl up in a ball and cry.
Who makes these stupid decisions!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/highlight-of-the-night-the-top-moments-from-raw-2/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/highlight-of-the-night-the-top-moments-from-raw-2/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2015 04:55:42 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Blogs Other Blogs Adam Rose Andre the Giant Bad News Barrett bellator Big E BNB Bray Wyatt Brock Lesnar Bunny Cesaro Dean Ambrose Dolph Ziggler Erick Rowan HHH Hulk Hogan John Cena Kane Leo Kruger NXT Owen Hart Papa Shango RAW Rosebuds Ryback Seth Rollins Shawn Michaels Stephanie McMahon The Authority Triple H Tyson Kidd UFC Vince McMahon Wade Barrett WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=8620 Highlight of the Night The Top Moments from Raw Written by Mark Adam Haggerty If the devil is in the details then I'd like to meet the sanctimonious show-runner responsible for keeping up continuity. After last week's landmark effort I was convinced the WWE had turned a creative corner, but unfortunately I was again too […]

Highlight of the Night
The Top Moments from Raw
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

If the devil is in the details then I'd like to meet the sanctimonious show-runner responsible for keeping up continuity. After last week's landmark effort I was convinced the WWE had turned a creative corner, but unfortunately I was again too quick to jump the gun. Let me first preface this week's edition of "The Highlight of the Night" by saying I had to scour tonight's card in order to find Five Moments that weren't utter disappointments. The in-ring action was scarce to say the least, however the matches we did see were ripe with staged high-spots and sensational desperation. Why would the WWE book an entire three-hour broadcast around The Authority? I fear the Creative Powers might be attempting to swerve the WWE Universe on an incredibly lofty scale—of which the size might prove too much to balance, thus alienating a large segment of long-time fans. Whatever the case may be it's my job to report on the events as they happen, and if this episode of Monday Night Raw did anything—it happened. Let's get right to it and break down The Top Five Moments that I didn't completely hate.

5. A Triple Threat Saves the Day

Ironically enough my Fifth Moment of the Night might have actually been the most important thing that happened during the entire broadcast. The second Raw hit the airways, we the viewer were privy to an enormous sea of WWE Superstars flooding the twenty-by-twenty squared circle. They stood shoulder-to-shoulder inside the ring and of course the first thing I thought was, "Oh I hope Vince McMahon is coming out to give a �Ruthless Aggression' speech." But it was the King of Kings and The Billion Dollar Princess set to regale the guys and gals with the new law of the land. I'm not so keen on segments depicting heroes and villains intermingling like average employees working in some office building. The human-resource skits in which Triple H scolds Superstars in front of one another are entirely too reminiscent of "Office Space" and makes me see the members of the main roster as human beings which can prove to be problematic to the product. People use to see Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant as Super Heroes and that's where hyperbolic terms like "Superstar" came from. Nobody ever fired Andre the Giant and made him cry; nobody ever beat up Hulk Hogan's dad; nobody ever wrangled an entire locker room of WWF athletes and lifted the curtain for the world to watch. Call me old fashioned, I just think there are ways to evolve without sacrificing key fundamentals. However though it may be dim, there is some sun peeking out from behind that cloud, in the form of Triple H announcing the WWE World Heavyweight Title match at The Royal Rumble will now be a Triple Threat—with Seth Rollins. Huge news no matter how you feel because this will be the first major opportunity for Rollins to take home the gold. And if you recall, Seth is currently in possession of the Money in the Bank briefcase meaning he could conceivably lose the match and then try for a second pin after incapacitating the winner. It's also important because it breaks up the monotony of Cena versus Lesnar which I, for one, am sick of seeing. I think Lesnar will more than likely retain when the night is at an end, but anything is possible considering The Beast Incarnate is said to already be in talks with both UFC and Bellator.

4. Party Time All the Time

During what amounted to an all-around impressive outing between Big E and Adam Rose, I couldn't help but think, "Wouldn't it be funny if I put this match on my list." I've been convinced for weeks now that Adam Rose is but a guise constructed for Leo Kruger to gain the trust of the WWE Universe. His attitude and mannerisms have been completely-Kruger and I was sincerely impressed with what he offered during this matchup with the New Day's resident Powerhouse. I wasn't actually planning to list them as a Top Moment of the Night though, are you crazy? But then something spectacular happened when two faceless Rosebuds entered the ring and proceeded to demolish Big E and The New Day on behalf of Adam Rose. Despite ongoing reports of NXT talent debuting as The Bunny, these Rosebuds were none other than Tyson Kidd and Cesaro. I don't know what this means for the two highly-skilled singles stars, and question whether it's the beginning of an alliance with Rose or rather retaliation against The New Day. If the team of Kidd and Cesaro can absorb this momentum and continue forward at a top rate of speed I have no doubts that we could be looking at the next WWE Tag Team Champions. Finally, I think it could be time for Adam Rose to ditch the rest of the Party Posse and send them back to the Exotic Express. Unless he insists upon fixing his gimmick soon, I fear it may be too late and he will forever be relegated to Santino Marella Territory.

3. The Ambulance That Looked Like Papa Shango

Okay let's put the brakes on and address the inconspicuous voodoo shaman in the room—am I the only one who thought the ambulance looked like Papa Shango? I know I'm not because there were a ton of tweets regarding the same exact Magic Eye that I seemed to be drawn to—and it wasn't a sailboat! Anyway, let's discuss this match. There was a lot of WWE-hate going into this contest as all across Twitter, smarks rang out with their collective complaint: "They're billing this as the first ambulance match but there have been ambulance matches before." Oh Internet Wrestling Community how quick you are to disregard what's right in front of you! This match was in fact billed as the, "First-ever Ambulance Match on Monday Night Raw." Now as far as that being true I have no idea, it's just been bugging me since the match was first announced. Uh—not much to say except what a waste of time and an utter detriment to both Bray Wyatt and Dean Ambrose, not just as men but as enthralling TV characters. I guess I shouldn't be surprised as we here in The �States see Raw on the USA Network, known for their �Characters' and the absurd situations in which they find themselves. I was just hoping the bogusness of Barely Legal wouldn't bleed through into something I treat like a religion. I thought they went to the ambulance a little too fast, although in a �shoot' Ambulance Match I assume the number one priority would be getting to the Ambulance so no logistical qualm with that. I refuse to believe there are any white folding tables with big red crosses painted on the top being used in the world of legitimate medicine. What the hell purpose would they serve, other than to maybe hand out vaccines but the TRUCK-LOAD? But that can't be what they're for because this was taped in The United States of Vaccinations, not Azerbaijan! So once again, I want to know what's up with these painstakingly comical pieces of furniture. Perhaps they're commonplace among the colleagues of Dr. Amman, but I think it's more likely they were spray painted white as an afterthought, and then Vince saw them and said, "Put a big red cross on �em, that'll look official." Though the match itself was overly-scripted and saturated with weaponry, the feud between Ambrose and Wyatt appears to be reaching a boiling point and I'm happy Bray walked away victorious. I assume the two will meet once more at The Royal Rumble, although to what end I cannot predict. Maybe there's a bigger match on the horizon or even some sort of spot in the �Rumble itself. I just hope Dean gets a singles win on pay-per-view in 2015.

2. Bad News for Dolph Ziggler Fans

Don't be a jerk and ask me to pick a match of the night because it would have to be a default drawing and the winner would likely be Bad News Barrett versus Dolph Ziggler for the Intercontinental Championship. What is up with the IC belt nowadays, I mean does anybody give a damn about it anymore? It's been passed around more freely than an unmarked orange bottle of pills at E.D.C. and once again a new champion has been crowned "King of the Inter-continents." The WWE has become unquestionably predictable and as soon as this one-fall matchup was kicked back into gear as a two-out-of-three falls contest, I knew we'd see Bad News Barrett walk away champion. The best fall was the third as the first was rushed in an apparent effort to have Kane come down to announce the added stipulation. And the second was a squash serving only to tie the score at one victory-a-piece. WWE Superstars are such peculiar character specimens, just as I mentioned before with Bray Wyatt and Dean Ambrose. Take Bad News Barrett for example: he was a heel who went away due to injury and garnered an impressive following, he returned on Raw last week to seemingly defend the WWE Universe against Cesaro, and now he's being pushed like any brute-force bad guy doing the bidding for The Authority. It goes back to what I said initially about consistency and this company's inability to monitor its own program. I'm extremely happy for Bad News as I consider him a far more deserving champion and a more lucrative team player than Ziggler. I thought the match was well contested despite the twists that made the action nearly impossible to follow. I've said it before and I'll say it now with a little bit more conviction: the WWE needs to get rid of Glen "Kane" Jacobs as soon as they can get him on a plane to Stanford. He's outlived his usefulness and it's only a matter of time before he starts costing more money than he's bringing in. Plus there was so much Kane on this show, especially during matches such as this that should only rely on the chemistry between those involved. An earnest effort on behalf of Dolph Ziggler and the New Intercontinental Champion, but hardly worth a re-watch.

1. Let's Get to Those Consequences

The WWE never ceases to amaze me in their segmented approach to storytelling. I can't remember the last time I listed anything other than the final moments of Raw as Number One here on "The Highlight of the Night." It's consistently the most compelling piece of business on the card which isn't a good thing when there are barren pockets of airspace in every single episode of TV. However, as much as I'd like to see a contract signing or hostage negotiation placed somewhere else on the show, tonight's finale was fitting and couldn't have happened at any other time aside from the final fifteen minutes of Raw. Let's get the cringe-worthiness out of the way right now: "You're fired." Okay is everybody done shaking out the shudders? I think it's a safe bet we'll see all three Superstars by the time the Rumble gets here in less than a month. So either they're going to spin this program in a way that makes no sense, or they're going to keep three rising stars off the second-maybe-third biggest show of the year. It was far too goofy for what I'd like to see from the WWE in 2015, and made an otherwise humorous few moments feel awkward. As for "Cena Appreciation Night"—I love John Cena so in my house, every night is John Cena Appreciation Night! I've heard some rather harsh criticisms regarding Mr. Cena's acting in the waning moments of television, but I thought he was as good as ever. If you're really setting aside time to take shots at a wrestler's acting ability on Monday Night Raw, then perhaps you'd better assess what you actually enjoy about pro wrestling because your priorities seem to be a bit skewed. I loved the final seconds of Raw, and laughed like a lunatic during the initial music cue that brought hundreds of balloons down upon the WWE Universe. Just as John Cena's friends are fired, Stephanie and Triple H present the Doctor of Thuganomics with the big thumbs up and a rousing rendition of Stars and Stripes Forever—What a brilliant moment in wresting comedy that didn't need to be edited or altered. It was perfect and helped to add an exclamation point to an otherwise boring string of sentences.

When I can't come up with anything to say as relates to the matter at hand I usually cop out and share a personal anecdote. The first time I was allowed to "stay up late" and watch Monday Night Raw was the episode in which Shawn Michaels collapsed after receiving an educated kick care of "The King of Harts" Owen Hart. What a captivating way to engage an audience, especially younger viewers such as myself who were far more convinced of Kayfabe. I'm not asking the WWE to send "Stone Cold" into someone's house with a gun or to blow up another limousine, I'm simply yearning for the same unpredictability that had me hooked as a third grader in 1995. I think I sold everyone on my disdain for tonight's Raw already, so I don't see a need for any sort of snappy send-off. This episode was atrocious and I'm only hoping it was some sort of seat-filling train wreck that needn't be referenced going forward. The Royal Rumble is less than three weeks away and nothing has been announced other than a Triple Threat Title match and a few entries in the �Rumble itself. Can the WWE pick up the pace in promoting one of the Big Four Events, or will they fall flat just as they did with the Survivor Series? Ladies and gentlemen my name is Mark Adam Haggerty, join me next week to discuss what I'm hoping against hope shan't be another abysmal failure on behalf of the "Leader in Sports Entertainment."

http://www.cheap-heat.com/boredwrestlingfan-coms-raw-review-31714/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/boredwrestlingfan-coms-raw-review-31714/#comments Tue, 18 Mar 2014 06:22:20 +0000 bored wrestling fan Blogs Alberto Del Rio Andre the Giant Arnold Schwarzenegger Big Show Brock Lesnar Cesaro Swagger Cody Rhodes Damien Sandow Daniel Bryan Dave Batista Dean Ambrose Derek Roy Dolph Ziggler Eminem Eva Marie Google Gregory Iron Henrik Tallinder Jack Swagger Joe Manganiello John Cena King Kofi Kingston Mark Henry Paul Heyman Phil Brooks Professional Wrestling Randy Orton RAW Renee Young Roman Reigns Sabotage search results Seth Rollins Steel Chair steel ring steps Stephanie McMahon Tamina Triple H Undertaker Wrestlemania WWE Yes Movement Youtube http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=2380 This review originally appears weekly at BoredWrestlingFan.com. Let me tell you right now that the first hour of this show pretty much dragged. В That said, I’m going to be really skimming through it this week. В The second hour was actually pretty good, and the start of hour three? В Well, you’ll see when we get there. […]

Let me tell you right now that the first hour of this show pretty much dragged. В That said, I’m going to be really skimming through it this week. В The second hour was actually pretty good, and the start of hour three? В Well, you’ll see when we get there. В So, let’s go!

I watch the first two hours at home, drive to work, then have to watch the entire show again because I forgot what happened and didn’t have the foresight to review it live. В It’s irrelevant anyway – you’re more interested in Gregory Iron being our special guest on this Sunday’s BWF Radio.

Triple H kicks off RAW, saying he’s going to end the YES Movement at WrestleMania. В Batista comes out to confront him and ask why he would make the match at WrestleMania a triple threat match. В Randy Orton comes out wondering the same thing, but says he’ll take on Daniel Bryan if Triple H gives him a no DQ match against him later on tonight. В Triple H agrees to that, as Batista and Orton bicker. В Triple H finally tells them that he’s tired of gremlins like Daniel Bryan, of Hollywood movie stars coming back here thinking they can tell him what’s right for this business, and of technically gifted guys who are so screwed up in the head that they can’t win a match without Triple H holding their hand. В Triple H says we’re going to have a triple threat at WrestleMania – because if he beats Bryan, it’ll be Batista, Orton, and Triple H. В Orton RKO’s Batista.

This week’s theme is “Things that come up on Google Images when you search for ‘that was random'”

The WWE Tag Team Champions, The Usos, take on The Real Americans, Cesaro and Jack Swagger. В The Usos have been on a roll as of late while the Real Americans seem to be on a path of implosion. В Tonight, however, Swagger sacrifices himself on behalf of Cesaro, taking a side kick and a suicide dive from one of the Usos – but Cesaro takes advantage with a huge European uppercut to the Uso trying to do a suicide dive on him, then drops him with a Neutralizer mid-ring to pick up the victory for the Real Americans over the Tag Team Champions.

We get a look at WWE Slam City, which is some animated series about the WWE Superstars finding day jobs after they all get fired. В Best line in the ad is the character of Kane (none of them are voiced by their actual WWE counterparts) yelling “WHO WANTS DESSERT!?!?” while firing a flamethrower.

They’re on the second page of search results. They’ll never find them.

Kane apologizes to The Shield and informs them that they have a new mission from The Authority, and if they don’t prove themselves to be assets, they’ll be liabilities. В The Shield give him their word that they are united.

Hornswoggle, looking like a mini Chum Lee from Pawn Stars, is tossing St. Patrick’s Day goodies out to the WWE Universe when Bad News Barrett interrupts. В St. Patrick chased all the snakes out of Ireland, but the reality is that most people will spend this holiday getting inebriated and vomiting all night, waking up with a hangover, realizing they’ve done shameful things, and then spend the rest of their lives regretting them. В I agree.

Sheamus takes on Titus O’Neil, who comes out dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day, complete with ginger beard. В Christian is on commentary, announcing that he’s in the Andre The Giant Battle Royal at WrestleMania. В Titus tries to do a fireman’s carry throw 0n Hornswoggle a la Razor Ramon, but Sheamus catches ‘Swoggle, tosses him in to O’Neil, then hits the Brogue Kick for the win. В Sheamus cuts a promo about how he beat “Tight Arse O’Neil” and how he’ll win the Andre The Giant battle royal – then Christian once again attacks Sheamus. В Because nobody’s sick ofВ that program yet.

This image is unrealistic. Jorge doesn’t have a six pack.

We get an announcement that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Joe Manganiello of the upcoming filmВ Sabotage are the guest stars on next week’s RAW. В And also, Scooby Doo and the Mystery Machine. В So Schwarzenegger and Scooby Doo will be on RAW next week. В Seriously. В This is happening on the road to WrestleMania – Schwarzenegger and Scooby Doo.

John Cena hits the ring and admits he’s afraid of Bray Wyatt because Wyatt is like nothing he’s ever faced before. В Wyatt interrupts on the TitanTron, wearing John Cena merch. В He says children believe in Super Heroes because they want to believe that the world is good. В They don’t understand that everything is a lie. Wyatt has scars that the world gave to him. В He could be like Cena, sign autographs, kiss babies, make sure everybody buys his merchandise. В “I could go home to my plastic girlfriend and my castle.” В He can hide behind laughter and tell jokes to feel better about himself, that’s Cena. В But he’s right, Wyatt’s different than anyone he will ever face, because at WrestleMania, he doesn’t care if he leaves. В He doesn’t care if he dies. В As long as the world sees Cena the way Wyatt does. В Follow The Buzzards.

So true…

Randy Orton faces Daniel Bryan in a no disqualification match to kick off the second hour. В It’s all Orton with a kendo stick, save for a few moments of offense from Bryan, and then he gets a steel chair to do even more damage. В Before he can strike, however, Batista comes in and spears Orton. В Bryan dropkicks Batista out of the ring, then pins Orton. В As Bryan leaves, Batista drops the WWE World Heavyweight Champion with a Batista Bomb, much to the delight of the WWE Universe, who want him to do it one more time.

The announce team show their technical ineptitude as they try to show us the WWE Network sign up process.

I used to have pet rats. This is very true.

Paul Heyman is here, and he tells us that Brock Lesnar has easily conquered several of the Undertaker’s more recent WrestleMania opponents, each of whom The Undertaker barely survived. В He brought a clip. В I’d put it here, but WWE hasn’t put it up on YouTube. В Basically it says that Undertaker is getting old and that Brock Lesnar is a beast. В Heyman says The Undertaker and the streak will rest in peace.

Back in the Authority’s office, Stephanie McMahon questions Triple H wanting to talk to Daniel Bryan tonight, and then what happens when he wins the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and has to go back on the road full time. В She asks if he’s thinking at all. В He says he’s thinking clearly and not to worry about it. В She tells him he better take care of it.

Kaney West has really let himself go.

Fandango with Summer Rae takes on Goldust with Cody Rhodes. В Goldust dances with Cody on the ramp, and Fandango offers the floor to Goldust when the match starts. В Goldust acts all creepy, Summer Rae tries to get involved, she falls off the apron into the arms of Cody Rhodes, who takes a while to put her down. В Fandango misses the top rope legdrop and gets dropped by Goldust, who picks up the victory.

Is Jim Ross in this band?

As the third hour kicks off, Kane comes to the ring and tells Jerry “The King” Lawler to get in the ring, because Kane’s investigation says he’s responsible for Occupy RAW happening last week. В Jerry doesn’t oblige, so The Shield come down to escort him into the ring. В They back Lawler into a corner. В Kane says they’ve known each other for a long time, and Jerry’s not exactly in fighting shape, so Kane won’t enjoy this – well, maybe a little. В He asks if Lawler has anything to say for himself. В Lawler looks around, and Seth Rollins says “Jerry. В I see that look in your eyes. В But I got a good feeling Daniel Bryan is not coming to save you. В Because The Shield always does what’s best for business.” В Rollins drops the mic, and The Shield turn toward Kane. В Lawler gets out of the ring with a big smile on his face. В Kane berates The Shield as they surround him. В He tries to fight them off, but Dean Ambrose breaks up a chokeslam attempt on Rollins, and Roman Reigns spears Kane. В The Hounds of Justice drop Kane with the triple powerbomb and stand united over the fallen Director of Operations.

No longer with the Sabres: Derek Roy (9), Henrik Tallinder (10), and the Buffaslug jerseys.

The Bella Twins are on commentary as The Funkadactyls take on AJ Lee and Tamina. В Naomi is wearing an eye patch, but apparently must be cleared to wrestle. В I left at the start of this match, but I really don’t give enough of a shit about this to sit through it. В So, FFW! В Naomi pins AJ after a split legged moonsault. В Afterward, AJ and Tamina get into it. В AJ blames Tamina for her recent string of losses. В Tamina shoves AJ down.

I plan on shaving this Friday. Maybe this is the style I’ll go with?

Mr. T is announced as the next inductee into the celebrity wing of the WWE Hall of Fame, and rightfully so, despite the fact that Rowdy Roddy Piper and Mean Gene Okerlund said he was completely unprofessional to work with on an episode of WWE Legends of Wrestling (it’s the “Renegades & Outlaws” edition, which is on the WWE Network’s On Demand service. В Check it out!)

Well played!

Eight man tag team action happens as Big Show, Mark Henry, Big E, and Dolph Ziggler take on RybAxel, Damien Sandow, and Alberto Del Rio. В All of these guys are apparently in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal. В I really don’t care about this – more than the Diva’s match, but still not enough to sit through it. В FFW! В Sandow gets pinned by Big Show after a chokeslam.

Batista confirms that he didn’t quit WWE, and he doesn’t care who is the third man in the match, he’s leaving WrestleMania with what he came for, the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

I totally feel like this sometimes.

Kofi Kingston takes on Bray Wyatt, but first, we get a music video package on Bray Wyatt set to the song “Legacy” by Eminem. В Because when I think Bray Wyatt, I think Eminem. В Of course, the WWE video package crew makes it work. В So it’s the dude who is only on WrestleMania to be a spot monkey in the battle royal vs. the guy who is in one of the top matches against one of the WWE’s top stars. В I wonder who is going to win this one. В It doesn’t last long. В Wyatt wins with Sister Abigail.

“After Total Divas” is on WWE Network right now. Apparently somebody forgot to tell Eva Marie this.

Did I mention that Schwarzenegger and Scooby Doo will be on RAW next week? В Because WWE did again. В Or at least that Schwarzenegger and the other dude in his new movie are anyway.

Triple H calls out Daniel Bryan. В He doesn’t have to ask twice. В Triple H has some things to get off his chest, and it’s not a popular decision among his circle. В Triple H says that everything he’s done since SummerSlam he has done because he believes it is best for business. В He says none of this was personal. В He doesn’t expect anybody to understand the burdens of having to make the decisions of what is best for this company. В Last week, Bryan crossed the line, but Triple H will let it be in the past. В It feels like this was supposed to happen, but the fact is that they will step in this ring and fight in three weeks. В Triple H won’t apologize for anything he does, and Bryan shouldn’t apologize to him either. В They will do what they do best at WrestleMania. В But Bryan crossed the line and Triple H has no choice but to end it, because it’s best for business. В He wanted to let Bryan know, no hard feelings and may the best man win. В He extends a hand to Bryan. В Bryan refuses, and Triple H understands. В He does want to let Bryan know one other thing. В He’s dumped a ton on him since SummerSlam. В He’s done everything possible, and yet Bryan is still standing here. В Anybody else would have folded a long time ago, but not Bryan. В Bryan’s got a big set, and if nothing else, he’s earned Triple H’s respect. В Stephanie comes out and questions him. В What Bryan did was illegal, and endangered the lives of the people in the ring, and she’s pressing charges. В He spit in the face of her family, so he will suffer the consequences. В Police officers, who look suspiciously similar to indie wrestlers, come out to arrest Bryan. В Triple H and Stephanie argue on the ramp. В The “officers” surround Bryan, then cuff him and take him down. В Triple H questions them, then smiles at Stephanie. В He says this isn’t what he wants. В Triple H says they’re not even real cops. В Besides, he’s really looking forward to doing this himself. В Triple H starts stomping the shit out of a handcuffed and helpless Bryan. В He tosses Bryan out of the ring and into the steel ring steps. В He bounces Bryan’s head off of the announce table. В Bryan tries to fight back, but to no avail. В Triple H slams Bryan on the announce table. В Triple H continues the assault as Stephanie mocks Bryan. В Bryan once again tries to fight back unsuccessfully. В Triple H holds Bryan for Stephanie to slap him. В Bryan says “YOU HIT LIKE A GIRL!” В Triple H puts Bryan in the ring with his head against the post, then nails him with a steel chair. В Unprotected chairshots to the head – it’s what’s best for business. В Triple H drags Bryan to the center of the ring and Pedigrees his unconscious body to the mat. В Stephanie joins him in the ring and mocks the Yes chants. В RAW ends with Triple H saying that this all belongs to them, and there is no “YES Movement.”

Thoughts : В If Bryan doesn’t walk out of WrestleMania as the Champion, what is all of this for? В Is Triple H going to bury Bryan and win the title himself? В It’s now a possibility. В By the way, I watched Talking Dead last night on AMC. В CM Punk was introduced as “Phil Brooks, who you may know as CM Punk.” В At the end of the show, the other people were announced with what they do for a living, but all that was said about Phil Brooks was that you can find him on Twitter at @CMPunk. В Since he wasn’t in the Brock Lesnar/Undertaker video package, I think it’s safe to say he’s done.

http://www.cheap-heat.com/boredwrestlingfan-com-raw-review-31014-occupyraw/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/boredwrestlingfan-com-raw-review-31014-occupyraw/#comments Tue, 11 Mar 2014 10:21:44 +0000 bored wrestling fan Blogs Andre the Giant Battle Royal Bray Wyatt Brock Lesnar BWF Daniel Bryan HHH Hulk Hogan John Cena Occupy RAW Paul Heyman RAW Triple H Undertaker Wrestlemania WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=1727 This post originally appears at BoredWrestlingFan.com. Here we go again. В Another Monday, another RAW that I have to leave for work in the middle of a great segment involving Daniel Bryan. В But we’ll get to that later. В There’s other stuff that happened first. В Let’s see how much I can remember and how much I actually […]

Here we go again. В Another Monday, another RAW that I have to leave for work in the middle of a great segment involving Daniel Bryan. В But we’ll get to that later. В There’s other stuff that happened first. В Let’s see how much I can remember and how much I actually have to re-watch. В Which might be a lot since I had in-laws over while RAW was on. В Let’s go!

I watch RAW. В I press “enter” to add line breaks, and they mysteriously vanish by time I read the review on BWF Radio. В Meanwhile, I make no money doing this, and I’m flat broke until payday. В If only I could come up with a way to generate some money…

Hulk Hogan kicks off RAW, Dude Brother, and he’s got an idea for WrestleMania, Jack. В He wants to honor the memory of Andre The Giant by having a 30 Man over-the-top-rope Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal. В John Cena wants in. В Bray Wyatt says Cena amuses him, since pride has always been his favorite sin. В He says that if Cena looks up at him, then they’re friends. В If he looks down on him, they’re enemies. В But if he looks him in the eye, he’ll see God. В Cena says all he sees is a homeless dude whose spent too much time wasting away in Margaritaville.

And you can get YOUR Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker here !

Cena faces Erick Rowan, who holds his own with Cena, but in the end it’s Cena who rolls up Rowan for the victory, much to the delight of Hulk Hogan, who does his classic poses after the match. В The Wyatts tease attacking, but get down off the apron instead.

Stephanie McMahon and Triple H come out to the stage. В They showed Daniel Bryan last week what happens when you mess with The Authority. В They could fire Bryan, but they instead offer an apology. В They recognize there’s value in the Daniel Bryan brand, and as long as Bryan publicly apologizes to them tonight, he won’t be fired.

The New Age Outlaws are on commentary as RybAxel take on The Usos. В Nothing to write home about – but then again, why are you going to write home about professional wrestling anyway? В In any event, the Usos did their suicide dive/Superfly splash combo for the victory.

Kane scolds The Shield for losing to the Wyatts. В Twice. В Rollins rebuts by pointing out that Kane lost to Daniel Bryan last week. В Twice. В Kane gives them a chance to prove themselves as Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins take on the Rhodes brothers later on tonight. В Dean Ambrose says they’ll exorcise that demon tonight. В Reigns says just like any other demon that steps in their way.

And you can learn how to exorcise YOUR demons by buying this film !

Big E faces Jack Swagger. В Again. В Zeb Colter tries to get Cesaro to interfere, but he refuses. В Swagger questions why, and Big E rolls him up for the victory. В After the match, The Real Americans get in each other’s faces. В Colter orders them to shake hands. В They do, but Cesaro squeezes down on Swagger’s hand and won’t let go.

Until now, this was the only way to get juice from a Jack Swagger.

The Undertaker makes his entrance, but is surprised to find Paul Heyman staring him down from the ramp as he enters the ring. В Heyman points out that Shawn Michaels has never won two consecutive WrestleMania matches. В That Triple H got to two but never three. В Hulk Hogan managed three, but not four. В Stone Cold Steve Austin had four straight wins, but never five. В The same can be said for John Cena, but The Undertaker has won 21 consecutive WrestleMania matches. В Therefore, he urges Undertaker to call off his match with Brock Lesnar, because LesnarВ will conquer the streak. В Undertaker tells Heyman to tell Lesnar that the fear of death is far greater than the death itself, but the fear of the unknown is the greatest fear of all, and at WrestleMania, if Brock Lesnar shows up in New Orleans, he will rest in peace.

And YOU can rest in peace with these phenomenal BoseВ® QuietComfortВ® 15 Acoustic Noise CancellingВ® Headphones. Buy them here !

Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins of The Shield take on Cody Rhodes and Goldust. В Tomorrow on Main Event on the WWE Network, Ambrose will defend the United States Championship against Mark Henry. В The Rhodes brothers hold their own, but in the end, The Shield work together to pick up the win as Rollins catches Cody Rhodes out of the disaster kick and powerbombs him into the turnbuckle, then gives him the Blackout for the victory. В The Shield stand together, united.

I couldn’t come up with a good shill for this, other than the obvious Shield tv series on DVD. Which isn’t clever. I thought about maybe a turnbuckle, but realistically, who’s going to buy a turnbuckle from us?

The Bella Twins take on AJ Lee and Tamina Snuka with Natalya on commentary. В Natalya has a shot at AJ’s Diva’s Championship tomorrow night on Main Event. В Just in time for Season 2 of Total Divas on the E! Network. В An overconfident AJ costs herself the match as she showboats while trying to put the Black Widow on Nikki Bella, but gets it reversed into the Rack Attack, scoring the pin. В Nikki takes the WWE Divas Championship and holds it over her head as Natalya looks on.

Renee Young interviews LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell – which is an exercise in proving that LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell are not wrestling fans.

We interrupt my shilling of virtually everything to bring you this GIF of AJ Lee, thanks to Wrestling With Text . You’re welcome, Jorge.

Daniel Bryan makes his way to the ring. В He says NO to apologizing to the Authority. В He says that it’s time to occupy RAW. В He’s not leaving until he gets what he wants – and he’s not alone. В He invites members of the YES Movement into the ring – and what looks to be about 100 people in Daniel Bryan t-shirts fill up the ring and the ringside area. В The Authority come out and demand that the people leave their ring. В Bryan says if Hunter wants them to leave, they will take the all the people in the arena with them, go outside, set up their own ring, and RAW can go on with an empty arena. В They try to send security to kick them out, but the two security guards tell him there’s nothing they can do. В Bryan tells Stephanie that she doesn’t own any of this, “WE OWN THIS RING!” В Triple H says it ends now. В He calls for the next match. В Damien Sandow’s music hits. В Sandow walks down to the ring and asks the fans to move – but they refuse. В Bryan invites him to join the YES Movement. В Sandow leaves, much to Triple H’s chagrin. В Stephanie screams at Bryan to get out. В Bryan refuses to leave until “we get what we want,” a match between Bryan and Triple H at WrestleMania. В Triple H says the truth is, he likes Bryan. В He saw something in him, so he’s tried to protect him from everything that would happen if he were successful. В He wouldn’t fight Bryan at WrestleMania because Triple H will end him. В He finally accepts Bryan’s challenge. В Bryan says he misspoke earlier. В That’s not all he wants. В As much as the people want Bryan to fight Triple H at WrestleMania, they really want to see him fight for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. В So what they reallyВ want, is if Bryan beats Triple H at WrestleMania, he gets added to the main event, making it Randy Orton vs. Batista vs. Daniel Bryan. В Triple H tries to run to the ring, but security stops him. В Triple H says he gets his deal, and he’ll end it at WrestleMania. В I wonder if this will sway G’s stance on WrestleMania at all.

Look at all these people!

Jerry “The King” Lawler is in the ring in Memphis! В He’s here to announce the stipulation voted on by the WWE Universe for Christian vs. Sheamus. В The choices were Falls Count Anywhere, 2 out of 3 Falls, and a Memphis Street Fight. В I voted for the eventual winner, a Memphis Street Fight. В I quite honestly hope this doesn’t wind up being a match at WrestleMania. В This is the second or third match between these two and I don’t think that makes a good WrestleMania build. В Christian drops Sheamus with a tornado DDT off the stage and on to the floor. В Several gimmicked guitars were destroyed during the filming of this match. В Sheamus’ back gets destroyed by a Singapore cane. В Meanwhile, JBL accuses Jerry Lawler of being in cahoots (I love that word. В CAHOOTS!) with Daniel Bryan to get the security and police to not show up to break up the #OccupyRAW movement. В Lawler neither confirms nor denies the allegations. В This match is surprisingly watchable. В Sheamus picks up the win with a Brogue Kick through a cheap bass drum.

Brad Maddox is backstage trying to calm down Batista and Randy Orton, who are angry about the possibility of Daniel Bryan being added to their match at WrestleMania. В The Authority have left but Maddox says they told him to relay the message that Batista and Orton have to get along and set their differences aside to take care of Daniel Bryan tonight in their tag match.

This is The Gentrys. JBL referenced them several times during the previous match. Why? Because one of these dudes is a young Jimmy Hart. Buy their album here !

Lana comes out and cuts a promo, and Alexander Rusev comes out and cuts a promo, and nobody gives a shit because we don’t fucking speak Bulgarian.

Bray Wyatt and The Wyatt Family cut a promo backstage. В Harper tells Cena he’s made a big mistake. В Wyatt says he sees Cena’s future in Hulk Hogan, so self absorbed that he refuses to let it go. В Wyatt says Cena is every bit a monster as he is. В Wyatt has a thousand faces and a million names. В He accepts Cena’s challenge for a match at WrestleMania, but Cena should remember that he is the one with everything to lose. В His time is up, and Wyatt is forever. В Wyatt sings “Time Is On My Side.”

Which you can buy here !

Daniel Bryan teams with The Big Show again to take on Batista and Randall Keith Orton. В Team Bad Tattoos (I’m talking Orton’s tribals, not his skulls) work well together early on while keeping Bryan away from his corner. В Even after Bryan gets a tag to Big Show, their teamwork keeps them in control. В Batista tries for a Batista Bomb on Big Show, but it bombs, much like Batista has since he came back. В Bryan gets the tag and brings momentum back to his team. В Orton avoids the flying headbutt, but not the YES lock, but Batista breaks that up. В Show boots Batista in the face, but gets an RKO for his trouble. В Orton looks to hit the RKO on Bryan, but Bryan sidesteps a Batista spear, sending him into Orton. В Orton avoids TMTBJC, then drops Bryan with the elevated DDT. В Bryan counters the RKO into a backslide for two, then hits TMTBJC to win the match for his team! В Momentum for Bryan heading into WrestleMania?

Thoughts: В Back on track? В More than anything right now, I’m curious to get G’s thoughts on WrestleMania now that we’ve got the in for Daniel Bryan. В I guess we’ll get those Sunday at 2PM Eastern on BoredWrestlingFan Radio!