By Alfonso Colasuonno
SMACKDOWN
So, not only is Mike Knox back on Smackdown, but his weird intellectual bent that Jim Ross has been playing up seems to be in full effect. I like it.
How about that? CM Punk finally won a match for a change as he pinned John Morrison in the last edition of Smackdown. I like his new hardline image but how can you take him seriously as a #1 contender to the title when he keeps losing repeatedly to JoMo, Edge, and Jeff Hardy.
I like the idea of turning Matt Hardy face and reuniting the Hardy Boys. However, is anything going to come of this with Jeff likely leaving the WWE after Summerslam? I can't believe I'm saying this, but hopefully Jeff'll sign on for a few more months to see where it goes with his brother.
Slam Master J is a complete joke. However, he's a lot funnier than the old gimmick of Jesse. I'd like to see Slam Master J just become a total jobber a la Santino. Be the Smackdown equivalent of Santino in comic relief.
I was right on in calling for Ricky Ortiz to get the pink slip. He'll be missed. Heh.
R. Truth is electric. I think they should give Ziggler the IC title at Summerslam and have him feud for it with Truth. Mysterio maybe can be moved up to the #2 face behind John Morrison and feud with CM Punk for the title and/or #1 contendership.
I like the gruesomeness of the new Kane - Great Khali clips. I hope these guys are on for Summerslam.
Is Melina not the most absolute gorgeous diva in WWE? While the diva action is not nearly as good as the TNA knockouts, I always am eager to see Melina in action. Rawr.
I still think Jericho is the best mic worker in the WWE today but I'd like to see him turn face again. Maybe turn on the Big Show?
I found out that Finlay is in his 50's. I guess he's the lone exception to the McMahon's youth policy promotion.
I like the Word Up segments with Cryme Tyme. They tend to be amusing. Mainly for the humiliation of Slam Master J.
I like the angle of Mr. McMahon putting Teddy Long on ice. I think McMahon is the best heel in the WWE. But then again, who likes their boss?
RAW
Surprisingly, the idea of guest hosts of RAW isn't bringing the show any better ratings. I was quite the critic of Monday Night Raw until they brought in the guest hosts. While some hosts are more subdued (I mean would anyone want to see a show all about Sgt. Slaughter?) the Shaq episode was just hilarious even if his comments about Christina and Fat Boy were puerile. As for Jeremy Piven, he made wrestling look bad by not even knowing that it was Summerslam instead of Summerfest. He deserved getting thrown around by Cena after that gaffe. As for Sgt. Slaughter - he plays the part of the ugly American as well as anyone (and was that a Hacksaw sighting!)
I'm getting tired of the fact that for the last 4-5 years no one other than Batista, Orton, Triple H, or Cena is getting heavily promoted as a major WWE title holder. I think if Vince McMahon wants to make his product improve he has to take chances. Why not promote a Kofi Kingston or a Jack Swagger or even a Mark Henry into the title match at a PPV?
So it's off to dopes to infinity for The Brian Kendrick. Supposedly his attitude and drug abuse cost him his job in the WWE. I think he'd be great in TNA or ROH. I hope he gets a new job soon. I really think he has a great future in this business if given a solid push.
Chris Masters is back. Does anyone care?
We haven't seen Festus in a while. I don't know if that's a good or a bad thing. With him and Santino being pushed to the side, Raw loses its comedic value.
I'm personally glad Eugene was once again given the pink slip by WWE.
Why does Kelly Kelly get a 7-11 Cup. Has she even been a title holder before? Besides I think there are better looking divas than her (Michelle McCool, Maryse, Jillian, and Melina come to mind)
I wonder how Lawler's mayoral candidacy is going. Best of luck to him on that.
Am I the only one who whenever they announce the name Primo thinks of crack and pot mixed together or am I just living in the streets for too long?
The Miz is back on RAW. Personally, I'd have liked to see him moved back to ECW. I think he and Christian could have had a great feud for the ECW title. Either way, glad to see him back on programming.
Last, but certainly not least, DX is back. Shawn Michaels absolutely suffered under the serious gimmicks with Jericho and especially JBL in the last year or so. Best to see him in his role with DX where he shined brightest. I'd like to see DX versus Jericho and Big Show for the titles.
ECW
I'm still waiting on a match between Ezekiel Jackson and Vladimir Kozlov. I think it would be nice to see these two heavyweights go at it.
Is Abraham Washington ever going to wrestle? Or does he just talk a good game?
Hurricane Helms is almost as stupid a gimmick as Super Eric and the Prince Justice Brotherhood.
I've never seen anyone as pale as Sheamus before.
Tyler Reks is the definition of a shooting star. He'll be gone in mere minutes from the world of pro wrestling.
Shelton Benjamin as a face is a great move. I think he'll be ECW champion soon enough. I think he's a great talent and it's a shame to see him banished to the wasteland of the WWE.
All I can say about Zack Ryder is he strikes me as quite common for a Long Islander.
TNA
World Elite strikes me as just as a midcard version of the Main Event Mafia.
I know Bobby Lashley is a dual sport athlete but I'd like to see him in a few matches in TNA sometime soon.
Eric Young is a heel now and perhaps leader of World Elite. And still no one cares about him.
I really think Kevin Nash is the best mic worker other than Jericho in the business today. I loved his title match signing with Mick Foley where he admits, once again, it's all about the benjamins.
Does anyone really think the Outlaw Jethro Holliday has a chance against Abyss. I think Abyss needs a title shot at Kurt Angle. Why is every other face in a feud with the MEM and World Elite and he's stuck battling Stevie Richards.
AJ Styles if floundering in mediocrity. I think he's got a dynamic future if given the chance. I'd rather see AJ vs. Matt Morgan for the TNA title than guys like Sting or Foley in the picture when they should bow out gracefully (However, Sting is set to retire very shortly)
I think Cody Deaner has watched too many hours of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour.
Daniels and Daffney are completely misused by TNA. They are great talents who are floundering around doing nothing. Another example of TNA's ineptness and why they can't challenge WWE.
Is Jeff Jarrett going to be cut from the umbilical cord of his that is TNA? Maybe then TNA can get serious and compete with the WWE.
I enjoyed seeing Rhino gore Jesse Neal. Stupid rook.
I really hope Matt Morgan gets the title from Kurt Angle. I like the heat betweeen Morgan and Angle at the last TNA episode over Morgan being ordered to help Angle retain the title if he wanted to be in the Main Event Mafia. Hopefully, he won't be another Samoa Joe.
Sarita is amazing. I've never seen a female wrestler with the amazing high flying antics of her. She reminds me of Jushin Liger!
If nothing else, Team 3D will always be the best tag team ever in mic skills.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
My Perspective
by Alfonso Colasuonno
ECW
I saw William Regal tell Yoshi Tatsu that he hates foreigners yesterday on ECW. Ironic, considering this Englishman said that in Roanoke, Virginia....Still, I think this angle might be becoming developed since Regal's comment to Kofi Kingston about how it'd be better for him to represent the US Title than a Jamaican. Let's hope this racist angle is pulled off better than JBL giving the Nazi salute.
The Abraham Washington Show is definitely must-see-TV. I wonder what kind of competitor he is in the ring. I'd like to see Abey Baby get started in a feud against Tommy Dreamer.
Definitely don't know what ECW is going to do with their women's division with only 3 stars...could we see the Bellas turn on each other, again?
When is DJ Gabriel returning to ECW? I swear he was the second coming of Alex "Berlyn" Wright!
Goldust is as useless as ever. Definitely have to agree that he hasn't been a factor in the WWE since intimidating Razor Ramon.
Is a Vladimir Kozlov feud against Ezekiel Jackson possible? There was a tease of it last night. I personally think the days of Russian mega heels are over. Try Kozlov as a face - if only as an experiment.
Too bad Finlay isn't on ECW anymore. I'd like to see a Finlay-Sheamus feud.
William Regal and Paul Burchill might make a good tag team....
RAW
Raw is once again the flagship of the WWE Universe. There's been a lot of improvement on the show in the last month or so. I really like the idea of guest hosts, as it really alleviates a lot of the problems of depth in the superstar pool that Raw has. That said, ZZ Top on RAW was lame.
Anyone else as excited about the 6 man match for the US Title. First off, Kofi Kingston is a delight to watch in the ring. The Miz is just awesome! Jack Swagger really has the potential to be a great heel for years to come. I like Carlito's heel turn too. However, the Big Show and MVP are sort of floundering. The Big Show is really just used as a tool because of his size to show how amazing your top-of-the-line guys on RAW are by beating him. MVP was also rumored to be challenging Orton for the belt at one point but now is apparently an afterthought.
It's a shame to see Beth Phoenix as a non-entity in the Divas title picture. She really has more talent than most of the other Divas in WWE.
How great would it be if Jericho's tag team partner was Randy Orton at Night of Champions? I think it would clear the way for a feud between Orton and DiBiase and give DiBiase the chance to develop into a star in his own right.
Personally, I think Hornswoggle's matches are painful to watch. When he and Chavo Guerrero are going at it, I just feel like I'd taken some Seraquil.
I like Mark Henry's push. While I don't know how well he'll go over as a face in the long run, I think his dominance of Jericho and Orton is putting him in good position for a title contendership if Orton manages to hold on to the belt.
The Brian Kendrick losing to Lawler (could you believe his dropkick at his age?) is just one more nail in the coffin for Kendrick. What a waste of his talent.
Lastly, for those who've been in the loop for awhile...doesn't Monday Nitro sound a lot like Monday Night Raw if pronounced in a Southern accent?
SMACKDOWN
Where's been Mike Knox on the last few editions of Smackdown? I'd like it if they play us his intellectual proclivities. I don't mean turn him into another Dean Douglas...but it would be nice to see a smart face for a change.
Have you ever seen a champion lose as often as CM Punk has recently? He's been pinned twice by John Morrison, forfeited a match to Edge, and lost via disqualification to Jeff Hardy.
Speaking of Jeff Hardy, his contract is about to run out....I think his mic skills are terrible...I don't think he'd be a big loss to the WWE.
I love the Edge face turn. I think when Edge returns, and with John Morrison, Smackdown has two faces that don't insult fans' intelligence (i.e. Cena, Batista, J.Hardy)
I'm surprised that the Hart Dynasty isn't getting over in their feud against Cryme Time. To think that the son of Davey Boy Smith, the daughter of Jim the Anvil Neidhart, and the last graduate of Stu Hart's famed dungeon is 2-2 against Cryme Time....is disappointing to say the least.
Dolph Ziggler is the likely choice for Jericho's tag team partner; but for once, WWE, surprise me!
Jesse as the eternal wanksta is a gimmick that is going over with me quite well. Who'd have thought the son of one of the Fabulous Freebirds would be more akin to Eminem than the dudes from Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Jim Ross remains the best announcer currently in the business.
When are they going to start using Matt Hardy? I think it's kind of funny how he destroys Jeff Hardy in a brother vs. brother feud, and then gets drafted to RAW and used as a mid-carder while Jeff wins the title.
When will they give Ricky Ortiz the pink slip already...the rally up gimmick is lame!
I don't really get the whole Pretty Ricky gimmick they are giving R. Truth. I also don't get why he hasn't been in contention for the Intercontinental Title yet.
Has there really ever been a worse wrestler (and I use that term loosely) than The Great Khali?
WWE just isn't the same without The Undertaker (or Shawn Michaels)
TNA
It's a low down dirty shame that first Shane Douglas, and now Raven, are gone from TNA. Why even bring them in to tease the fans in the first place if you weren't going to stick by them.
So the Main Event Mafia controls all the (major) belts. Now what? Here's where things can get interesting. I can't wait to see what happens next...
Sheik Abdul Bashir hasn't really been used much lately in TNA. I think he has potential to be a great X-division champion.
Somehow, I don't understand the idea of your most powerful knockout being used as a face in the case of Awesome Kong.
Bobby Lashley signed on to TNA....wonder how they'll use him.
I don't really understand the idea of half-heartedly doing an anti-American faction with the British Invasion, Kiyoshi, and Sheik Abdul Bashir, when Kiyoshi and SAB aren't even used in the fed much.
I really think TNA needs to remold the Legends belt into their secondary title instead of something associated with Legends. I think The Monster Abyss is one of the few TNA originals to really go anywhere lately with the MEM's domination. Maybe he should challenge Nash for the belt.
I think Beer Money, Inc. - if they stick together - could one day be considered one of the great tag teams in line with your Steiners, Road Warriors, and Dudleys.
I really think TNA should get Hulk Hogan. Like Vince said, Kurt Angle just isn't a channel changer.
Taz as Samoa Joe's trainer....whoo....I think that was a pretty good move for TNA.
ECW
I saw William Regal tell Yoshi Tatsu that he hates foreigners yesterday on ECW. Ironic, considering this Englishman said that in Roanoke, Virginia....Still, I think this angle might be becoming developed since Regal's comment to Kofi Kingston about how it'd be better for him to represent the US Title than a Jamaican. Let's hope this racist angle is pulled off better than JBL giving the Nazi salute.
The Abraham Washington Show is definitely must-see-TV. I wonder what kind of competitor he is in the ring. I'd like to see Abey Baby get started in a feud against Tommy Dreamer.
Definitely don't know what ECW is going to do with their women's division with only 3 stars...could we see the Bellas turn on each other, again?
When is DJ Gabriel returning to ECW? I swear he was the second coming of Alex "Berlyn" Wright!
Goldust is as useless as ever. Definitely have to agree that he hasn't been a factor in the WWE since intimidating Razor Ramon.
Is a Vladimir Kozlov feud against Ezekiel Jackson possible? There was a tease of it last night. I personally think the days of Russian mega heels are over. Try Kozlov as a face - if only as an experiment.
Too bad Finlay isn't on ECW anymore. I'd like to see a Finlay-Sheamus feud.
William Regal and Paul Burchill might make a good tag team....
RAW
Raw is once again the flagship of the WWE Universe. There's been a lot of improvement on the show in the last month or so. I really like the idea of guest hosts, as it really alleviates a lot of the problems of depth in the superstar pool that Raw has. That said, ZZ Top on RAW was lame.
Anyone else as excited about the 6 man match for the US Title. First off, Kofi Kingston is a delight to watch in the ring. The Miz is just awesome! Jack Swagger really has the potential to be a great heel for years to come. I like Carlito's heel turn too. However, the Big Show and MVP are sort of floundering. The Big Show is really just used as a tool because of his size to show how amazing your top-of-the-line guys on RAW are by beating him. MVP was also rumored to be challenging Orton for the belt at one point but now is apparently an afterthought.
It's a shame to see Beth Phoenix as a non-entity in the Divas title picture. She really has more talent than most of the other Divas in WWE.
How great would it be if Jericho's tag team partner was Randy Orton at Night of Champions? I think it would clear the way for a feud between Orton and DiBiase and give DiBiase the chance to develop into a star in his own right.
Personally, I think Hornswoggle's matches are painful to watch. When he and Chavo Guerrero are going at it, I just feel like I'd taken some Seraquil.
I like Mark Henry's push. While I don't know how well he'll go over as a face in the long run, I think his dominance of Jericho and Orton is putting him in good position for a title contendership if Orton manages to hold on to the belt.
The Brian Kendrick losing to Lawler (could you believe his dropkick at his age?) is just one more nail in the coffin for Kendrick. What a waste of his talent.
Lastly, for those who've been in the loop for awhile...doesn't Monday Nitro sound a lot like Monday Night Raw if pronounced in a Southern accent?
SMACKDOWN
Where's been Mike Knox on the last few editions of Smackdown? I'd like it if they play us his intellectual proclivities. I don't mean turn him into another Dean Douglas...but it would be nice to see a smart face for a change.
Have you ever seen a champion lose as often as CM Punk has recently? He's been pinned twice by John Morrison, forfeited a match to Edge, and lost via disqualification to Jeff Hardy.
Speaking of Jeff Hardy, his contract is about to run out....I think his mic skills are terrible...I don't think he'd be a big loss to the WWE.
I love the Edge face turn. I think when Edge returns, and with John Morrison, Smackdown has two faces that don't insult fans' intelligence (i.e. Cena, Batista, J.Hardy)
I'm surprised that the Hart Dynasty isn't getting over in their feud against Cryme Time. To think that the son of Davey Boy Smith, the daughter of Jim the Anvil Neidhart, and the last graduate of Stu Hart's famed dungeon is 2-2 against Cryme Time....is disappointing to say the least.
Dolph Ziggler is the likely choice for Jericho's tag team partner; but for once, WWE, surprise me!
Jesse as the eternal wanksta is a gimmick that is going over with me quite well. Who'd have thought the son of one of the Fabulous Freebirds would be more akin to Eminem than the dudes from Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Jim Ross remains the best announcer currently in the business.
When are they going to start using Matt Hardy? I think it's kind of funny how he destroys Jeff Hardy in a brother vs. brother feud, and then gets drafted to RAW and used as a mid-carder while Jeff wins the title.
When will they give Ricky Ortiz the pink slip already...the rally up gimmick is lame!
I don't really get the whole Pretty Ricky gimmick they are giving R. Truth. I also don't get why he hasn't been in contention for the Intercontinental Title yet.
Has there really ever been a worse wrestler (and I use that term loosely) than The Great Khali?
WWE just isn't the same without The Undertaker (or Shawn Michaels)
TNA
It's a low down dirty shame that first Shane Douglas, and now Raven, are gone from TNA. Why even bring them in to tease the fans in the first place if you weren't going to stick by them.
So the Main Event Mafia controls all the (major) belts. Now what? Here's where things can get interesting. I can't wait to see what happens next...
Sheik Abdul Bashir hasn't really been used much lately in TNA. I think he has potential to be a great X-division champion.
Somehow, I don't understand the idea of your most powerful knockout being used as a face in the case of Awesome Kong.
Bobby Lashley signed on to TNA....wonder how they'll use him.
I don't really understand the idea of half-heartedly doing an anti-American faction with the British Invasion, Kiyoshi, and Sheik Abdul Bashir, when Kiyoshi and SAB aren't even used in the fed much.
I really think TNA needs to remold the Legends belt into their secondary title instead of something associated with Legends. I think The Monster Abyss is one of the few TNA originals to really go anywhere lately with the MEM's domination. Maybe he should challenge Nash for the belt.
I think Beer Money, Inc. - if they stick together - could one day be considered one of the great tag teams in line with your Steiners, Road Warriors, and Dudleys.
I really think TNA should get Hulk Hogan. Like Vince said, Kurt Angle just isn't a channel changer.
Taz as Samoa Joe's trainer....whoo....I think that was a pretty good move for TNA.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Heroes of World Class: The Story of the Von Erichs (DVD Review)
By Alfonso Colasuonno
A while ago, for my good friend and contributor to this site, Russell Jaffe's birthday - I bought him a DVD entitled "Heroes of World Class: The Story of the Von Erichs." While browsing through the sports section of Best Buy I knew I had to get something good for Russell - something to catch his eye - as he'd soon be leaving New York City for brighter pastures in Iowa City. I think I hit the nail on the head with this DVD.
Flash forward to two months later, I was stirred to pick up the DVD for myself. Honestly, I was rather ignorant of the Von Erich family. I had known they were a cursed brood in wrestling lore. However, prior to the DVD catching my eye that May day when shopping for Russell, I had never even heard of World Class Championship Wrestling. I was even somewhat ignorant of the extent of the fact that the NWA was a loose confederation of pro wrestling in various territories in the United States - of which WCCW was one of them. The DVD rectified to a large extent my ignorance of this groundbreaking wrestling family and their promotion.
The DVD introduced me to the world of such stars as the Von Erich family, Gino Hernandez, The Fabulous Freebirds (of which I best knew Michael Hayes as Dok Hendrix in the WWE and as a character in the old NES World Championship Wrestling video game), Bruiser Brody and "Gentleman" Chris Adams (of who I'd seen in mid-90s era AWF television programs). The comprehensive and informative look at the history of WCCW - when it was the toast of Texas and the world - syndicated in 25 countries and picked up in 85 world markets - to the downfall after the string of deaths that occurred connected to the promotion of wrestlers gone before their time - starting with David Von Erich tracked the rollercoaster ride of one Texas promotion that could have been where the WWE is today if things had turned out a little differently.
One facet that I found highly interesting was the territorial system of pro wrestling prior to the WWE's explosion and branching out of the NYC market. Wrestling had a definite regional flair to it that made a Ric Flair coming to Texas or a Kerry Von Erich coming to Atlanta a huge draw. In the modern era, we take it for granted that we can view our favorite WWE or TNA stars no matter where we live in the United States (or in many places abroad) but once wrestling promoters held swaths of territory in which their promotion was the only one featured at the time in arenas. I found that to be just one of the startling changes between the modern and previous eras of pro wrestling.
As the DVD nears its end, I was overcome with a profound sense of sadness as the deaths rattled on and hard luck of countless wrestlers involved in the promotion were illustrated. From Bruiser Brody's homicide in Puerto Rico to Gino Hernandez' probable forced overdose of cocaine after hanging out with shady characters - the sense of grief was overwhelming. This voyeuristic documentary played all the strings in this wrestling's fan's heart with its first-hand look at the rise and fall of this promotion. I felt through interviews with stars like Gary Hart and Skandar Akbar that I really got to see the humanity in the wrestling world behind our television heroes and the glitz and glamour.
While the DVD was terribly depressing, it was definitely worth watching in order to enlighten my Yankee mind of the history of this distinctly Southern piece of Texas wrestling and state history. The DVD made me grateful to have most of my loved family and friends alive and mourn those who've passed on. All this from one wrestling video. I just expected to watch a bunch of matches. I came away with much more. The actual wrestling clips were rather minimal - as that was not what was set out to cover in this DVD. Instead, this haunting piece teaches us a lesson in grief. The stirring story of the demise of the Von Erich brood brings us an appreciation of having our loved ones here. Particularly, the fall of David Von Erich, with his special flair - he could have been one of the biggest babyfaces in pro wrestling history - saddens all of us fans of pro wrestling.
Perhaps the most depressing part of the DVD is Kevin Von Erich - the lone survivor - taking us back to the old Sportatorium in Dallas and recounting all his memories at the arena in better times. The Sportatorium, like the ECW Arena after it, truly was a wrestling arena of great majesty, albeit humble in appearance.
Overall, what I took from this most terribly depressing DVD is to be grateful for all that you have around you. I was left touched. Truly a work of great artistry and a compelling addition to any pro wrestling fan's DVD collection.
A while ago, for my good friend and contributor to this site, Russell Jaffe's birthday - I bought him a DVD entitled "Heroes of World Class: The Story of the Von Erichs." While browsing through the sports section of Best Buy I knew I had to get something good for Russell - something to catch his eye - as he'd soon be leaving New York City for brighter pastures in Iowa City. I think I hit the nail on the head with this DVD.
Flash forward to two months later, I was stirred to pick up the DVD for myself. Honestly, I was rather ignorant of the Von Erich family. I had known they were a cursed brood in wrestling lore. However, prior to the DVD catching my eye that May day when shopping for Russell, I had never even heard of World Class Championship Wrestling. I was even somewhat ignorant of the extent of the fact that the NWA was a loose confederation of pro wrestling in various territories in the United States - of which WCCW was one of them. The DVD rectified to a large extent my ignorance of this groundbreaking wrestling family and their promotion.
The DVD introduced me to the world of such stars as the Von Erich family, Gino Hernandez, The Fabulous Freebirds (of which I best knew Michael Hayes as Dok Hendrix in the WWE and as a character in the old NES World Championship Wrestling video game), Bruiser Brody and "Gentleman" Chris Adams (of who I'd seen in mid-90s era AWF television programs). The comprehensive and informative look at the history of WCCW - when it was the toast of Texas and the world - syndicated in 25 countries and picked up in 85 world markets - to the downfall after the string of deaths that occurred connected to the promotion of wrestlers gone before their time - starting with David Von Erich tracked the rollercoaster ride of one Texas promotion that could have been where the WWE is today if things had turned out a little differently.
One facet that I found highly interesting was the territorial system of pro wrestling prior to the WWE's explosion and branching out of the NYC market. Wrestling had a definite regional flair to it that made a Ric Flair coming to Texas or a Kerry Von Erich coming to Atlanta a huge draw. In the modern era, we take it for granted that we can view our favorite WWE or TNA stars no matter where we live in the United States (or in many places abroad) but once wrestling promoters held swaths of territory in which their promotion was the only one featured at the time in arenas. I found that to be just one of the startling changes between the modern and previous eras of pro wrestling.
As the DVD nears its end, I was overcome with a profound sense of sadness as the deaths rattled on and hard luck of countless wrestlers involved in the promotion were illustrated. From Bruiser Brody's homicide in Puerto Rico to Gino Hernandez' probable forced overdose of cocaine after hanging out with shady characters - the sense of grief was overwhelming. This voyeuristic documentary played all the strings in this wrestling's fan's heart with its first-hand look at the rise and fall of this promotion. I felt through interviews with stars like Gary Hart and Skandar Akbar that I really got to see the humanity in the wrestling world behind our television heroes and the glitz and glamour.
While the DVD was terribly depressing, it was definitely worth watching in order to enlighten my Yankee mind of the history of this distinctly Southern piece of Texas wrestling and state history. The DVD made me grateful to have most of my loved family and friends alive and mourn those who've passed on. All this from one wrestling video. I just expected to watch a bunch of matches. I came away with much more. The actual wrestling clips were rather minimal - as that was not what was set out to cover in this DVD. Instead, this haunting piece teaches us a lesson in grief. The stirring story of the demise of the Von Erich brood brings us an appreciation of having our loved ones here. Particularly, the fall of David Von Erich, with his special flair - he could have been one of the biggest babyfaces in pro wrestling history - saddens all of us fans of pro wrestling.
Perhaps the most depressing part of the DVD is Kevin Von Erich - the lone survivor - taking us back to the old Sportatorium in Dallas and recounting all his memories at the arena in better times. The Sportatorium, like the ECW Arena after it, truly was a wrestling arena of great majesty, albeit humble in appearance.
Overall, what I took from this most terribly depressing DVD is to be grateful for all that you have around you. I was left touched. Truly a work of great artistry and a compelling addition to any pro wrestling fan's DVD collection.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
1 Month Later - An Update (Finally...)
by Alfonso Colasuonno
RAW
I know I've been critical of RAW lately...but they have had a string of three really good episodes in a row. First the multi-branded RAW was saved by the diversity of matches from the brands. Last week's was amazing - adding The Donald and aggressively placing Vince in his role of heel worked magnificently. As for yesterday - the addition of Jack Swagger to RAW made me a lot more excited about the program's future, well that combined with the good showing of The Miz, who is a really talented worker.
A rumor heard from my friend James Boesen is that RAW will eventually go with Ric Flair as GM. As for now, Vince is sticking with Trump's idea of guest hosts, which seems pretty cool.
I have to say that while Trump was an amazing, albeit short-lived, promotional trick...I was disappointed that Vince didn't sell RAW to Stone Cold, Hogan, or Flair. All of those superstars have enough money to make the storyline plausible. Even Randy Savage, longtime nemesis of Vinnie Mack would have been solid.
I think Trump's trade really did a lot to revitalize the RAW brand. Evan Bourne - while he has zero mic skills should be interesting. I'd like to see him feud with The Brian Kendrick. Jack Swagger brings some enthusiasm to RAW. Mark Henry is another solid US title contender. Gail Kim should bring a solid challenger to Maryse's Divas title...along with Mickie James.
Is Mark Henry actually going to be used as a face? It's almost as strange seeing him posturing to the fans after demolishing Orton as it was to see Kozlov doing the same the last time he was spotted on ECW.
The never ending saga of Randy Orton v. McMahon brood/Evolution might finally end. Things are getting a little testy between him and Ted DiBiase. Hopefully, by Summerslam they'll be feuding. I'd also like to see John Cena win next week. Cena v. Orton should be a nice main event at Night of Champions.
The Miz looked really solid in his match against Cena last night. He could use a push. Even if it's just to the US title ranking. I'd really like to see The Miz team with the underutilized The Brian Kendrick or maybe Jack Swagger.
The first RAW in a while without Santino. I think he should turn heel again.
SMACKDOWN
I like the new direction for the straight edge superstar CM Punk. Personally, I think he's making Jeff Hardy seem like a whiny jerk.
Edge + Jericho as a team is an interesting concept. However, I think the WWE should do more to develop two tag teams with lots of potential as a unit - DH Smith + Tyson Kidd and Priceless. One other team that could have been put perhaps in the same unit is Shelton Benjamin + Charlie Haas...but unfortunately they were broken up....although I think Shelton has championship potential now in ECW. As for the Colons and Cryme Time....I don't think anyone takes them seriously.
I also think the Hart Dynasty on Smackdown is a great move. I think it's only a matter of time before they get tag team gold around their waists.
Anyone see John Morrison beat CM Punk. I think he is the next Shawn Michaels. He has loads of charisma and is an incredible in-ring performer. The Starship Pain finishing move is incredible. Someone should give him a chance to face Punk for the title.
Jesse actually made an appearance on Smackdown and was as hokey as ever. Here's a no-talent who needs to be released from his contract.
TNA
Shane Douglas is gone almost as soon as he came into TNA. That's a shame. He's an incredible performer. Oh well. Back to high school history class for the Dean.
I really like the direction the Main Event Mafia has taken with kicking Sting out and bringing Samoa Joe in with the promise of big bucks. I think it puts a fresh spin on the MEM. I never thought Sting would last in the group...the giveaway? His high-fives to fans. I want to see Samoa Joe rip Sting apart.
Whatever happened to all the amazing outfits Daffney used to find? Still she's my all-time favorite female wrestler. Hail the Scream Queen!
RAW
I know I've been critical of RAW lately...but they have had a string of three really good episodes in a row. First the multi-branded RAW was saved by the diversity of matches from the brands. Last week's was amazing - adding The Donald and aggressively placing Vince in his role of heel worked magnificently. As for yesterday - the addition of Jack Swagger to RAW made me a lot more excited about the program's future, well that combined with the good showing of The Miz, who is a really talented worker.
A rumor heard from my friend James Boesen is that RAW will eventually go with Ric Flair as GM. As for now, Vince is sticking with Trump's idea of guest hosts, which seems pretty cool.
I have to say that while Trump was an amazing, albeit short-lived, promotional trick...I was disappointed that Vince didn't sell RAW to Stone Cold, Hogan, or Flair. All of those superstars have enough money to make the storyline plausible. Even Randy Savage, longtime nemesis of Vinnie Mack would have been solid.
I think Trump's trade really did a lot to revitalize the RAW brand. Evan Bourne - while he has zero mic skills should be interesting. I'd like to see him feud with The Brian Kendrick. Jack Swagger brings some enthusiasm to RAW. Mark Henry is another solid US title contender. Gail Kim should bring a solid challenger to Maryse's Divas title...along with Mickie James.
Is Mark Henry actually going to be used as a face? It's almost as strange seeing him posturing to the fans after demolishing Orton as it was to see Kozlov doing the same the last time he was spotted on ECW.
The never ending saga of Randy Orton v. McMahon brood/Evolution might finally end. Things are getting a little testy between him and Ted DiBiase. Hopefully, by Summerslam they'll be feuding. I'd also like to see John Cena win next week. Cena v. Orton should be a nice main event at Night of Champions.
The Miz looked really solid in his match against Cena last night. He could use a push. Even if it's just to the US title ranking. I'd really like to see The Miz team with the underutilized The Brian Kendrick or maybe Jack Swagger.
The first RAW in a while without Santino. I think he should turn heel again.
SMACKDOWN
I like the new direction for the straight edge superstar CM Punk. Personally, I think he's making Jeff Hardy seem like a whiny jerk.
Edge + Jericho as a team is an interesting concept. However, I think the WWE should do more to develop two tag teams with lots of potential as a unit - DH Smith + Tyson Kidd and Priceless. One other team that could have been put perhaps in the same unit is Shelton Benjamin + Charlie Haas...but unfortunately they were broken up....although I think Shelton has championship potential now in ECW. As for the Colons and Cryme Time....I don't think anyone takes them seriously.
I also think the Hart Dynasty on Smackdown is a great move. I think it's only a matter of time before they get tag team gold around their waists.
Anyone see John Morrison beat CM Punk. I think he is the next Shawn Michaels. He has loads of charisma and is an incredible in-ring performer. The Starship Pain finishing move is incredible. Someone should give him a chance to face Punk for the title.
Jesse actually made an appearance on Smackdown and was as hokey as ever. Here's a no-talent who needs to be released from his contract.
TNA
Shane Douglas is gone almost as soon as he came into TNA. That's a shame. He's an incredible performer. Oh well. Back to high school history class for the Dean.
I really like the direction the Main Event Mafia has taken with kicking Sting out and bringing Samoa Joe in with the promise of big bucks. I think it puts a fresh spin on the MEM. I never thought Sting would last in the group...the giveaway? His high-fives to fans. I want to see Samoa Joe rip Sting apart.
Whatever happened to all the amazing outfits Daffney used to find? Still she's my all-time favorite female wrestler. Hail the Scream Queen!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
TNA's New Arrivals, The Floundering Nature of RAW, and The Birth of a Star on Smackdown
by Alfonso Colasuonno
TNA
Well, TNA brought three new arrivals to the Impact Zone this week and I think the show will all together be a lot stronger for their additions.
First - about Victoria - all I have to say is her theme music is amazing. It's the best I've ever heard. It sounds like some cross between L7 and My Bloody Valentine. Anyone know who does the music?
Raven joining with old pal Stevie Richards and Daffney has the makings for a great stable. I'm really optimistic about how TNA will handle the addition of Raven.
Shane Douglas using his old friend the brass knuckles on Daniels was an interesting way to close out the show. And by interesting, I mean I think they could do better. Still, I think a Daniels - Douglas feud would be pretty exciting.
Next week will bring a new addition - Jesse Neal. I really think Abdul Bashir and The British Invasion are going to do something to feud with him. Yes, I think it will be the worst gimmick around. My fingers are crossed that this is botched so horribly that it goes from bad to good.
I'm not feeling the idea of bringing in Cody Deaner is an active competitor. See when Don West said the crystal meth crack about him, I actually think it was aptly put.
Samoa Joe remains the height of absurdity by stating that he is going to kill Kurt Angle. Gah.
I like the idea of Sting leading the Main Event Mafia. It brings a bit of a twist to the same tired old heel faction. Let's see how this develops. I think Matt Morgan could be really something of a star and might be a good fit for the faction as an enforcer - sort of replacing Kurt Angle's bodyguards in that role.
RAW
I am completely bored of the Legacy. Even Ric Flair wasn't enough to salve the wound that is the Ortoncentric nature of RAW.
I have to admit - even though it was out of jealousy and self-promotion, the idea of the faces wearing Lakers jerseys and the heels wearing Nuggets jerseys in the main event and the confrontation between McMahon and the Nuggets owner impersonator was pretty entertaining.
SMACKDOWN
The more I see of John Morrison, like the way he handled himself against Umaga - the more I think this kid has the potential to be the next Shawn Michaels.
TNA
Well, TNA brought three new arrivals to the Impact Zone this week and I think the show will all together be a lot stronger for their additions.
First - about Victoria - all I have to say is her theme music is amazing. It's the best I've ever heard. It sounds like some cross between L7 and My Bloody Valentine. Anyone know who does the music?
Raven joining with old pal Stevie Richards and Daffney has the makings for a great stable. I'm really optimistic about how TNA will handle the addition of Raven.
Shane Douglas using his old friend the brass knuckles on Daniels was an interesting way to close out the show. And by interesting, I mean I think they could do better. Still, I think a Daniels - Douglas feud would be pretty exciting.
Next week will bring a new addition - Jesse Neal. I really think Abdul Bashir and The British Invasion are going to do something to feud with him. Yes, I think it will be the worst gimmick around. My fingers are crossed that this is botched so horribly that it goes from bad to good.
I'm not feeling the idea of bringing in Cody Deaner is an active competitor. See when Don West said the crystal meth crack about him, I actually think it was aptly put.
Samoa Joe remains the height of absurdity by stating that he is going to kill Kurt Angle. Gah.
I like the idea of Sting leading the Main Event Mafia. It brings a bit of a twist to the same tired old heel faction. Let's see how this develops. I think Matt Morgan could be really something of a star and might be a good fit for the faction as an enforcer - sort of replacing Kurt Angle's bodyguards in that role.
RAW
I am completely bored of the Legacy. Even Ric Flair wasn't enough to salve the wound that is the Ortoncentric nature of RAW.
I have to admit - even though it was out of jealousy and self-promotion, the idea of the faces wearing Lakers jerseys and the heels wearing Nuggets jerseys in the main event and the confrontation between McMahon and the Nuggets owner impersonator was pretty entertaining.
SMACKDOWN
The more I see of John Morrison, like the way he handled himself against Umaga - the more I think this kid has the potential to be the next Shawn Michaels.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Recent Observations
By Alfonso Colasuonno
Is anyone as sick of Randy Orton as I am? OK. You systematically dismantled every member of the McMahon family and now you're setting your sights on dismantling every member of Evolution. You already put Triple H out of commission. Boring. Smackdown is an infinitely better show than Raw simply because Raw revolves around Orton (and Cena - don't get me started on him). I think he needs a new gimmick. This feud is getting old. Just a few months ago I was incredibly high on Orton...but now, I'm just frustrated watching his skits on RAW and prefer to watch The Miz or The Brian Kendrick or any of the other few good competitors on the program.
Speaking of Randy Orton's feud...how about bringing in the decomposing corpse of Ric Flair in to feud with Orton. Granted, Flair looks older than John McCain but I still mark out for the old boy. Still, the thought of Batista vs. Orton as the main draw on RAW leaves me with a sigh and a yawn.
On the last episode of Smackdown - Chris Jericho showed exactly why he is the best mic worker in WWE. At first I didn't like Jericho's angle of constant whiner. The angle could only really work in a truly skilled professional's hand (see how Jack Swagger is failing at it in his feud with Christian). While I miss the antics of the old Jericho...I think the new professional Jericho is equally entertaining.
Does anyone else think Batista is nothing but a ripoff of Goldberg?
The Miz is the reason to watch RAW. Him dressed up like a John Cena fanboy was hilarious. His rap ("The Steve Urkel of handsome") was funny. I actually want to see The Miz moved up to the main event status. I think he is an incredible mic worker. If not...I think he'd make an amazing tag team with The Brian Kendrick.
What's up with David Hart Smith saying he's already better than his father without ever wrestling a match in ECW? Hmm....he might be...but the kid is too brash without a record to back it up. Still, the new formed Hart Foundation is looking good.
Zack Ryder is the most entertaining wrestler on ECW. WOO WOO WOO!
I think I'm alone in my enthusiasm for the Soviet Cyborg - Vladimir Kozlov. I just wish he starts finding better competition than the no-names ECW is throwing at him. Who is going to win a match - the guy with the ring entrance or the guy you've never heard of without a ring entrance. Lame.
I really think the tag team belts should remain unified considering how little WWE cares about them.
Here's hoping Shawn Michaels and Triple H reform as DX and Kane and Undertaker reform as the Brothers of Destruction and give the tag team division a jolt. I just don't buy the Colons as legitimate tag team champions.
As Russell Jaffe said - the odds are 100 to 100 that the Navy guy that Rhino is training will feud with Sheik Abdul Bashir - I for one can hardly wait!!!
Stevie Richards needs a better angle than this Dr. Stevie gimmick.
FIN
Is anyone as sick of Randy Orton as I am? OK. You systematically dismantled every member of the McMahon family and now you're setting your sights on dismantling every member of Evolution. You already put Triple H out of commission. Boring. Smackdown is an infinitely better show than Raw simply because Raw revolves around Orton (and Cena - don't get me started on him). I think he needs a new gimmick. This feud is getting old. Just a few months ago I was incredibly high on Orton...but now, I'm just frustrated watching his skits on RAW and prefer to watch The Miz or The Brian Kendrick or any of the other few good competitors on the program.
Speaking of Randy Orton's feud...how about bringing in the decomposing corpse of Ric Flair in to feud with Orton. Granted, Flair looks older than John McCain but I still mark out for the old boy. Still, the thought of Batista vs. Orton as the main draw on RAW leaves me with a sigh and a yawn.
On the last episode of Smackdown - Chris Jericho showed exactly why he is the best mic worker in WWE. At first I didn't like Jericho's angle of constant whiner. The angle could only really work in a truly skilled professional's hand (see how Jack Swagger is failing at it in his feud with Christian). While I miss the antics of the old Jericho...I think the new professional Jericho is equally entertaining.
Does anyone else think Batista is nothing but a ripoff of Goldberg?
The Miz is the reason to watch RAW. Him dressed up like a John Cena fanboy was hilarious. His rap ("The Steve Urkel of handsome") was funny. I actually want to see The Miz moved up to the main event status. I think he is an incredible mic worker. If not...I think he'd make an amazing tag team with The Brian Kendrick.
What's up with David Hart Smith saying he's already better than his father without ever wrestling a match in ECW? Hmm....he might be...but the kid is too brash without a record to back it up. Still, the new formed Hart Foundation is looking good.
Zack Ryder is the most entertaining wrestler on ECW. WOO WOO WOO!
I think I'm alone in my enthusiasm for the Soviet Cyborg - Vladimir Kozlov. I just wish he starts finding better competition than the no-names ECW is throwing at him. Who is going to win a match - the guy with the ring entrance or the guy you've never heard of without a ring entrance. Lame.
I really think the tag team belts should remain unified considering how little WWE cares about them.
Here's hoping Shawn Michaels and Triple H reform as DX and Kane and Undertaker reform as the Brothers of Destruction and give the tag team division a jolt. I just don't buy the Colons as legitimate tag team champions.
As Russell Jaffe said - the odds are 100 to 100 that the Navy guy that Rhino is training will feud with Sheik Abdul Bashir - I for one can hardly wait!!!
Stevie Richards needs a better angle than this Dr. Stevie gimmick.
FIN
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Unsung, Underground, and Underappreciated: Must-see matches available on Youtube
by Russell Jaffe
As a lover of all things pro wrestling, I hold a soft spot in my heart for the bizarre, rare, and just plain insane. I collect WCW tapes from late 1999 and beyond, own every episode of XPW TV, and keep up with the lowliest of the low indie promotions, like Dirty South Pro Wrestling and Jonny Rodz’ World of Unpredictable Wrestling. I try to diversify. But what about people less-crazy than myself who want all the strangest must-see pro wrestling without all the time and money flushed into the abyss? I present to you: Unsung, Underground, and Underappreciated: Must-see matches available on Youtube.
Youtube is the voice of Generation Y: fast, to the point, odd, sadistic, voyeuristic, and representative of our multi-tasting, ADD generation. These matches are perfect fits within the deep cracks of pro-wrestling subculture. I present them for your enjoyment, whether you’ve seen them or not.
Finlay vs Grasshopper-World of Sport 1986
This bizarre match is must-watch for a number of reasons:
1.) World of Sport was totally fucking awesome and added an authentic edge to pro wrestling while retaining all the ridiculousness we all love.
2.) It’s Finlay in 1986. With a girl dressed like an Injun.
3.) I cannot figure out of this match is actually on sped up tape, but if not, these guys could give Bruce Lee a run for his money. Their way of moving is really fast and insane.
I recommend that anyone who likes World of Sport to seek out Mike Quackenbush vs. Johnny Saint from CHIKARA…that throwback match really brought back memories of simpler (and in this case, equally as odd) times.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRwa8AdVDQY
WCW 1989: Ding Dongs vs. Skyscrapers
This insanely brutal squash makes me laugh every time. It’s humiliation at its most humiliating as the pathetic, despised Ding Dongs are decimated and de-masked by the monsterous Skyscrapers. Yup, that’s Teddy Long with them. Let the neck snapping begin.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-pCo0CMIFA
Juvi's hilarious XPW promo: Philadelphia, 2001
People remember an awful lot about XPW, but you’d be hard pressed to find anything good. While many of the matches were garbage matches, how many times can you say that you’ve seen a garbage PROMO? Juvi brings it out in full force here, and envokes the wrath of the 2001 audience, chanting “WHAT?” Yes, Austin and the Rock were hot, and their hotness did not translate at all to Juvi.
Unfortunately, this video was taken down and uploaded again, but its missing some funny stuff, particularly when Chris Chetti comes out and gets bonked in the head by the lone piece of the set- a juicer that has been sitting in the corner.
LINK:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFqrppW9N0c
Vader vs Takeshi Morishima- NOAH 2003
Call it a torch being passed or forcefully taken. Vader, on his way out, takes on Takeshi Morishima, on his way up. Morishima would go on to win the ROH and GHC world titles, while Vader would go on to fall off the ring in WWE. This match is fast, stiff, and brutal: perfect for Youtube. Not quite the infamous Stan Hanson vs. Vader match, but does anything need to be?
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTRpqt0UiHI
Mighty Wilbur vs David Isley -AWA
This match is important for anyone who says mic skills don’t matter. What as Mighty Wilbur squashes a jobber, gets over in about 3 seconds, and then proceeds to destroy all his heat with a dragged out promo that will remind you of that one math teacher who made you want to just play calculator games the whole class. Apparently he dislikes Paul Jones.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bwYxQfdrSs
Toshiaki Kawada vs. Katsuyori Shibata-2004 NJPW
It’s hard for me to describe this vicious match besides saying that each man has nothing but reckless abandon for themselves and their opponents. Like Youtube itself, it presents a non-stop marathon of hard hitting violence and insanity. Watch for the most horrific knee-drop in the history of wrestling at the end. You know from the get go that this match isn’t ending until someone can’t go anymore. This is an absolute must-see match!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN6F1USUOaE
Great Antonio vs Antonio Inoki: 70s
This match is more important for the story behind it…Great Antonio refused to sell for Antonio Inoki, which is basically akin to inking your own death sentence in your own blood. Also, it’s worth mentioning that this match that degenerates into a shoot has amazing camerawork and quality, and it was the 1970s! Nice, Japan.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lXAGZtMxU8
Nasty Boys at Maryland Science Center
Remember when you were a kid and you watched all those wacky segments that made wrestling so much larger than life? If yes, then you do not remember this poop-covered gem: the Nasty Boys visiting the Maryland Science Center. While Knobbs may be called a legend on reality TV shows, he’s not exactly the wittiest guy in the world, and he has about 4 times the brain power that Jerry Saggs does. Turn your brain off and enjoy the stupidity!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vypggcGJ1E0
Buff Bagwell and Lex Luger vs Perfect Event- WCW Greed 2001
Relive the death of WCW as Luger and Bagwell allow themselves to be totally slaughtered by the Perfect Event. The myth behind the match is that Luger and Bagwell stated many times that they think this was a good idea for getting their opponents over, while Death of WCW thinks it was a snide way to challenge management, who demanded Perfect Event be put over. Regardless, it’s a rare gem from WCW’s end.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EnFK-XhLe0
Val CM Punk- heat 2005
Reportedly, this is the match that got CM Punk signed to a WWE developmental deal, and if you watch it you’ll see why. Val Venis puts on his work boots to take CM Punk (working heel) to an intense back-and-forth match that you’d never in a billion years expect to see on the former “Stevie Night Heat.”
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rDEfClDq-g
Little Egypt and Little Fiji vs. HOUSEWIVES -GLOW
Let me start by saying that I love the Housewives and I wish there were more matches that just allowed wrestlers to be totally over the top and bury their opponents. Don’t expect any quality women’s wrestling here. Check out the amazing rap that starts this weird garbage clusterfuck!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ld8RIR3QoaY
Brock Lesnar vs. Randy Orton- Smackdown fall 2002
Who would have thought Randy Orton would go on to greatness? Anyone, after watching this match. Watch Orton destroy himself and sell as only Orton can but look like he has a chance in this classic “David vs. Goliath” match up. Imagine how awesome this match could be now!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBb5F52cKg0
Jean-Paul Levesque vs. Alex Wright- WCW 94
Part 2 is easily accessible…and it must be here just so it can be said that Alex Wright beat Triple H clean (oops, spoiler alert). How did he do it? What is the secret to beating the Superman son-in-law McMahon? How did Wright beat the Game? Why hasn’t Wright main-evented Wrestlemania??? Find out (almost all) of those things.
LINK:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qra-2p4fcaM
Low KI (Kaval) vs. TJ Wilson (Tyson Kidd)
If HHH vs. Wright represents the past of wrestling, this match could represent the future. Indie standout and ROH alum Low Ki takes on TJ Wilson, soon to be Tyson Kidd, on FCW TV. This is a kick-ass match, and the result may very well surprise you! Could these guys be the future of Wrestlemania?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLLwcGBKvgI
As a lover of all things pro wrestling, I hold a soft spot in my heart for the bizarre, rare, and just plain insane. I collect WCW tapes from late 1999 and beyond, own every episode of XPW TV, and keep up with the lowliest of the low indie promotions, like Dirty South Pro Wrestling and Jonny Rodz’ World of Unpredictable Wrestling. I try to diversify. But what about people less-crazy than myself who want all the strangest must-see pro wrestling without all the time and money flushed into the abyss? I present to you: Unsung, Underground, and Underappreciated: Must-see matches available on Youtube.
Youtube is the voice of Generation Y: fast, to the point, odd, sadistic, voyeuristic, and representative of our multi-tasting, ADD generation. These matches are perfect fits within the deep cracks of pro-wrestling subculture. I present them for your enjoyment, whether you’ve seen them or not.
Finlay vs Grasshopper-World of Sport 1986
This bizarre match is must-watch for a number of reasons:
1.) World of Sport was totally fucking awesome and added an authentic edge to pro wrestling while retaining all the ridiculousness we all love.
2.) It’s Finlay in 1986. With a girl dressed like an Injun.
3.) I cannot figure out of this match is actually on sped up tape, but if not, these guys could give Bruce Lee a run for his money. Their way of moving is really fast and insane.
I recommend that anyone who likes World of Sport to seek out Mike Quackenbush vs. Johnny Saint from CHIKARA…that throwback match really brought back memories of simpler (and in this case, equally as odd) times.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRwa8AdVDQY
WCW 1989: Ding Dongs vs. Skyscrapers
This insanely brutal squash makes me laugh every time. It’s humiliation at its most humiliating as the pathetic, despised Ding Dongs are decimated and de-masked by the monsterous Skyscrapers. Yup, that’s Teddy Long with them. Let the neck snapping begin.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-pCo0CMIFA
Juvi's hilarious XPW promo: Philadelphia, 2001
People remember an awful lot about XPW, but you’d be hard pressed to find anything good. While many of the matches were garbage matches, how many times can you say that you’ve seen a garbage PROMO? Juvi brings it out in full force here, and envokes the wrath of the 2001 audience, chanting “WHAT?” Yes, Austin and the Rock were hot, and their hotness did not translate at all to Juvi.
Unfortunately, this video was taken down and uploaded again, but its missing some funny stuff, particularly when Chris Chetti comes out and gets bonked in the head by the lone piece of the set- a juicer that has been sitting in the corner.
LINK:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFqrppW9N0c
Vader vs Takeshi Morishima- NOAH 2003
Call it a torch being passed or forcefully taken. Vader, on his way out, takes on Takeshi Morishima, on his way up. Morishima would go on to win the ROH and GHC world titles, while Vader would go on to fall off the ring in WWE. This match is fast, stiff, and brutal: perfect for Youtube. Not quite the infamous Stan Hanson vs. Vader match, but does anything need to be?
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTRpqt0UiHI
Mighty Wilbur vs David Isley -AWA
This match is important for anyone who says mic skills don’t matter. What as Mighty Wilbur squashes a jobber, gets over in about 3 seconds, and then proceeds to destroy all his heat with a dragged out promo that will remind you of that one math teacher who made you want to just play calculator games the whole class. Apparently he dislikes Paul Jones.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bwYxQfdrSs
Toshiaki Kawada vs. Katsuyori Shibata-2004 NJPW
It’s hard for me to describe this vicious match besides saying that each man has nothing but reckless abandon for themselves and their opponents. Like Youtube itself, it presents a non-stop marathon of hard hitting violence and insanity. Watch for the most horrific knee-drop in the history of wrestling at the end. You know from the get go that this match isn’t ending until someone can’t go anymore. This is an absolute must-see match!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN6F1USUOaE
Great Antonio vs Antonio Inoki: 70s
This match is more important for the story behind it…Great Antonio refused to sell for Antonio Inoki, which is basically akin to inking your own death sentence in your own blood. Also, it’s worth mentioning that this match that degenerates into a shoot has amazing camerawork and quality, and it was the 1970s! Nice, Japan.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lXAGZtMxU8
Nasty Boys at Maryland Science Center
Remember when you were a kid and you watched all those wacky segments that made wrestling so much larger than life? If yes, then you do not remember this poop-covered gem: the Nasty Boys visiting the Maryland Science Center. While Knobbs may be called a legend on reality TV shows, he’s not exactly the wittiest guy in the world, and he has about 4 times the brain power that Jerry Saggs does. Turn your brain off and enjoy the stupidity!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vypggcGJ1E0
Buff Bagwell and Lex Luger vs Perfect Event- WCW Greed 2001
Relive the death of WCW as Luger and Bagwell allow themselves to be totally slaughtered by the Perfect Event. The myth behind the match is that Luger and Bagwell stated many times that they think this was a good idea for getting their opponents over, while Death of WCW thinks it was a snide way to challenge management, who demanded Perfect Event be put over. Regardless, it’s a rare gem from WCW’s end.
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EnFK-XhLe0
Val CM Punk- heat 2005
Reportedly, this is the match that got CM Punk signed to a WWE developmental deal, and if you watch it you’ll see why. Val Venis puts on his work boots to take CM Punk (working heel) to an intense back-and-forth match that you’d never in a billion years expect to see on the former “Stevie Night Heat.”
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rDEfClDq-g
Little Egypt and Little Fiji vs. HOUSEWIVES -GLOW
Let me start by saying that I love the Housewives and I wish there were more matches that just allowed wrestlers to be totally over the top and bury their opponents. Don’t expect any quality women’s wrestling here. Check out the amazing rap that starts this weird garbage clusterfuck!
LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ld8RIR3QoaY
Brock Lesnar vs. Randy Orton- Smackdown fall 2002
Who would have thought Randy Orton would go on to greatness? Anyone, after watching this match. Watch Orton destroy himself and sell as only Orton can but look like he has a chance in this classic “David vs. Goliath” match up. Imagine how awesome this match could be now!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBb5F52cKg0
Jean-Paul Levesque vs. Alex Wright- WCW 94
Part 2 is easily accessible…and it must be here just so it can be said that Alex Wright beat Triple H clean (oops, spoiler alert). How did he do it? What is the secret to beating the Superman son-in-law McMahon? How did Wright beat the Game? Why hasn’t Wright main-evented Wrestlemania??? Find out (almost all) of those things.
LINK:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qra-2p4fcaM
Low KI (Kaval) vs. TJ Wilson (Tyson Kidd)
If HHH vs. Wright represents the past of wrestling, this match could represent the future. Indie standout and ROH alum Low Ki takes on TJ Wilson, soon to be Tyson Kidd, on FCW TV. This is a kick-ass match, and the result may very well surprise you! Could these guys be the future of Wrestlemania?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLLwcGBKvgI
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