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!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
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
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Their Days Are Numbered... (Or At Least Should Be)
by Alfonso Colasuonno
First of all, let me state that experience is extremely valuable in most situations, inclusive of pro wrestling. However, with experience in pro wrestling comes the eventual bodily breakdown. This article is a plea to four legendary (well, maybe not Tommy Dreamer...make that three legendary) superstars to hang up the wrestling tights and call it a career. These four are the hardcore innovator Mick Foley, the once amazingly agile giant Kevin Nash, the iconic Sting, and the extreme Tommy Dreamer.
Watching pro wrestling this last year or so has led me to think that these four, and only these four, should hang up the tights. I've discussed this with friends who would extend it to others, including Scott Steiner and Booker T., but I think they can still put on an entertaining match. Of course, advanced age for an athlete doesn't necessarily mean that you should retire (although usually it does, Michael Jordan). Clearly the best match at Wrestlemania 25 was between fortysomethings Shawn Michaels and the Undertaker. Though their hair may be thinning, their talent is still as full as when they were some of the main draws of the WWE. Of course there are other wrestlers who it be argued should hang it up but I won't really elaborate on them for the following reasons. Hacksaw Jim Duggan is barely used by the WWE nowadays. Furthermore, he never really had much going for him in the beginning of his career other than how easily wrestling fans mark out for patriotism. Jerry Lawler, the god of Memphis, is barely ever used in WWE and has settled nicely over the last fifteen or so years as commentator first, wrestler second (these days a distant second).
Commentator first, wrestler second - ah, wouldn't those words be ideal for fans of the sport in regards to Mick Foley and Kevin Nash. Kevin Nash is one of the all-time greatest mic workers in the sport and Mick Foley proved his chops in the WWE as a commentator. Can you think of how much more intriguing TNA Impact would be if they got rid of the dweeby Mike Tenay and the "how much of a heel should I be this week" Don West and replaced them with Foley and Nash. Yes, I firmly believe that Mick Foley and Kevin Nash should retire and become the new commentators on the Impact Zone. Mick Foley was never one of the most agile wrestlers around but today with a little extra padding around his midsection, he is far too slow to put on a decent match. Kevin Nash doesn't look old so much as bored when in the ring. Nash was once nicknamed "Big Lazy" and when I see him wrestle a match I can see how he earned the moniker. Kevin Nash in his prime with the NWO or as a main eventer in the WWE as Diesel was a genuine star. Cactus Jack was a legend of the indies. Losing an ear in a match against Vader and continuing on. Well, the dude was just always willing to put on an amazing show. But there is a new Cactus Jack these days....Necro Butcher of ROH fame. Sure, Foley should stick to making the indie rounds in hardcore matches but his days as a legitimate star in wrestling should be numbered.
Sting. Sting is the only wrestler of the four mentioned who has broken the half-century mark (he's 50). Personally, I think Sting has been done as someone worth viewing since he debuted the Dark Sting angle in WCW. He's had a great career, multiple time TNA and WCW champion. He also can hold his head high for never selling out to join his nemesis Vince McMahon. But watching Sting wrestle guys who can put on a great show like Kurt Angle is just painful. This is not the Stinger of early 90s WCW fame whose combination of strength and speed gave headaches to Vader and Flair. No, Sting looks old in the ring. This one might just have a happy ending as in recent episodes of Impact! Sting insinuated that if he lost the TNA World Title he might call it a career or at least give it a rest.
Tommy Dreamer is only 38. However, I still think Tommy Dreamer should retire because he's gotten kind of fat and is slower than ever. Watching him, I hope his contract runs out without an ECW championship simply because he is tarnishing the good name of ECW past and his own career by wrestling in the new ECW. Whereas Sandman and Stevie Richards have moved on, Dreamer remains the last link to the old ECW. Dreamer was best in hardcore domain and having to wrestle straight matches really shows how limited he is. Hey, maybe Mick Foley and Tommy Dreamer can feud in hardcore matches at an indie card near you soon enough, if the Gods be just. (I'd rather see Abdullah the Butcher, though)
There comes a time in every wrestler's career when they know to step out of the spotlight. Even Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan have seemingly ended their careers to the surprise of all. Maybe Chris Jericho does have a point. Some of these legends are just tarnishing their image by continuing on. Let's just hope Rick Steamboat, Roddy Piper, and worst of all, Jimmy Snuka, don't decide to give it another try. Of course, TNA seemingly is always willing to hire any such over-the-hill legend to wrestle (their contract offer to Ric Flair, case in point). Let's not chance it. Step away and give the young guys a chance!
First of all, let me state that experience is extremely valuable in most situations, inclusive of pro wrestling. However, with experience in pro wrestling comes the eventual bodily breakdown. This article is a plea to four legendary (well, maybe not Tommy Dreamer...make that three legendary) superstars to hang up the wrestling tights and call it a career. These four are the hardcore innovator Mick Foley, the once amazingly agile giant Kevin Nash, the iconic Sting, and the extreme Tommy Dreamer.
Watching pro wrestling this last year or so has led me to think that these four, and only these four, should hang up the tights. I've discussed this with friends who would extend it to others, including Scott Steiner and Booker T., but I think they can still put on an entertaining match. Of course, advanced age for an athlete doesn't necessarily mean that you should retire (although usually it does, Michael Jordan). Clearly the best match at Wrestlemania 25 was between fortysomethings Shawn Michaels and the Undertaker. Though their hair may be thinning, their talent is still as full as when they were some of the main draws of the WWE. Of course there are other wrestlers who it be argued should hang it up but I won't really elaborate on them for the following reasons. Hacksaw Jim Duggan is barely used by the WWE nowadays. Furthermore, he never really had much going for him in the beginning of his career other than how easily wrestling fans mark out for patriotism. Jerry Lawler, the god of Memphis, is barely ever used in WWE and has settled nicely over the last fifteen or so years as commentator first, wrestler second (these days a distant second).
Commentator first, wrestler second - ah, wouldn't those words be ideal for fans of the sport in regards to Mick Foley and Kevin Nash. Kevin Nash is one of the all-time greatest mic workers in the sport and Mick Foley proved his chops in the WWE as a commentator. Can you think of how much more intriguing TNA Impact would be if they got rid of the dweeby Mike Tenay and the "how much of a heel should I be this week" Don West and replaced them with Foley and Nash. Yes, I firmly believe that Mick Foley and Kevin Nash should retire and become the new commentators on the Impact Zone. Mick Foley was never one of the most agile wrestlers around but today with a little extra padding around his midsection, he is far too slow to put on a decent match. Kevin Nash doesn't look old so much as bored when in the ring. Nash was once nicknamed "Big Lazy" and when I see him wrestle a match I can see how he earned the moniker. Kevin Nash in his prime with the NWO or as a main eventer in the WWE as Diesel was a genuine star. Cactus Jack was a legend of the indies. Losing an ear in a match against Vader and continuing on. Well, the dude was just always willing to put on an amazing show. But there is a new Cactus Jack these days....Necro Butcher of ROH fame. Sure, Foley should stick to making the indie rounds in hardcore matches but his days as a legitimate star in wrestling should be numbered.
Sting. Sting is the only wrestler of the four mentioned who has broken the half-century mark (he's 50). Personally, I think Sting has been done as someone worth viewing since he debuted the Dark Sting angle in WCW. He's had a great career, multiple time TNA and WCW champion. He also can hold his head high for never selling out to join his nemesis Vince McMahon. But watching Sting wrestle guys who can put on a great show like Kurt Angle is just painful. This is not the Stinger of early 90s WCW fame whose combination of strength and speed gave headaches to Vader and Flair. No, Sting looks old in the ring. This one might just have a happy ending as in recent episodes of Impact! Sting insinuated that if he lost the TNA World Title he might call it a career or at least give it a rest.
Tommy Dreamer is only 38. However, I still think Tommy Dreamer should retire because he's gotten kind of fat and is slower than ever. Watching him, I hope his contract runs out without an ECW championship simply because he is tarnishing the good name of ECW past and his own career by wrestling in the new ECW. Whereas Sandman and Stevie Richards have moved on, Dreamer remains the last link to the old ECW. Dreamer was best in hardcore domain and having to wrestle straight matches really shows how limited he is. Hey, maybe Mick Foley and Tommy Dreamer can feud in hardcore matches at an indie card near you soon enough, if the Gods be just. (I'd rather see Abdullah the Butcher, though)
There comes a time in every wrestler's career when they know to step out of the spotlight. Even Ric Flair and Hulk Hogan have seemingly ended their careers to the surprise of all. Maybe Chris Jericho does have a point. Some of these legends are just tarnishing their image by continuing on. Let's just hope Rick Steamboat, Roddy Piper, and worst of all, Jimmy Snuka, don't decide to give it another try. Of course, TNA seemingly is always willing to hire any such over-the-hill legend to wrestle (their contract offer to Ric Flair, case in point). Let's not chance it. Step away and give the young guys a chance!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Lamenting the Death of the (Original) ECW
by Alfonso Colasuonno
Last night, instead of watching Smackdown and seeing more of the same old tired John Cena - Edge feud, I watched a couple of YouTube clips of the old ECW. One was of Shane Douglas during his feud with Brian Pillman (who never actually wrestled a match in ECW). The other was of Raven and Stevie Richards building up their feud with Luna Vachon and Tommy Dreamer. Stevie had a hilarious spot where he talked about Kevin Sullivan's height, Florida Championship Wrestling, and Beulah's fishy smell. It made me think that wrestling today needs a true alternative.
Why was ECW so successful as an alternative to the WWE and WCW? Because it didn't aim for a 14 and under audience. When was the WWE at its best? During the Attitude phase when Stone Cold and The Rock were the pinnacle of the company and edginess was not only allowed but encouraged. The promotion of John Cena has disneyfied the WWE. There is no extreme left. Furthermore, the storylines are tired. Randy Orton feuding with the McMahon brood. Edge and John Cena fighting for the 100th time. Chris Jericho wasting his talent in a feud with has-beens.
TNA? Well, I think the problem with TNA is when it does go on a limb and try to be edgy, it's done is such a piss poor way that it's laughable rather than credible. Samoa Joe threatening Scott Steiner with a hunting knife is a case in point. I don't know whether that whole Nation of Violence angle is disturbing or humorous in its absurdity. TNA tries at times, but the fact is that a large portion of their wrestlers are completely washed-up (i.e. Kevin Nash and Mick Foley would both be better served replacing the awful commentators on Impact rather than wrestling on it.)
Why was ECW so great before it was co-opted by the McMahons? Because it was a wrestling program designed for adults. The violence was extreme. The angles were edgy. The wrestlers gave it their all every night of the week. Where else could you see Raven and Tommy Dreamer nailing each other over their heads with frying pans on the same card as a Dean Malenko - Eddy Guerrero technical masterpiece. ECW was the best federation to ever grace a television set. Perhaps ROH, which has the best action I've ever seen, can step in to the role of ECW, but without a television presence, stars like Necro Butcher, Tyler Black, and Bryan Danielson won't become household names until they go to the big leagues. The fact is that wrestling fans are made as kids in most cases, but when they grow up, they require something a little bit different, a little bit more mature, to keep them enamored of their favorite sport. Here's hoping another alternative can arise.
Last night, instead of watching Smackdown and seeing more of the same old tired John Cena - Edge feud, I watched a couple of YouTube clips of the old ECW. One was of Shane Douglas during his feud with Brian Pillman (who never actually wrestled a match in ECW). The other was of Raven and Stevie Richards building up their feud with Luna Vachon and Tommy Dreamer. Stevie had a hilarious spot where he talked about Kevin Sullivan's height, Florida Championship Wrestling, and Beulah's fishy smell. It made me think that wrestling today needs a true alternative.
Why was ECW so successful as an alternative to the WWE and WCW? Because it didn't aim for a 14 and under audience. When was the WWE at its best? During the Attitude phase when Stone Cold and The Rock were the pinnacle of the company and edginess was not only allowed but encouraged. The promotion of John Cena has disneyfied the WWE. There is no extreme left. Furthermore, the storylines are tired. Randy Orton feuding with the McMahon brood. Edge and John Cena fighting for the 100th time. Chris Jericho wasting his talent in a feud with has-beens.
TNA? Well, I think the problem with TNA is when it does go on a limb and try to be edgy, it's done is such a piss poor way that it's laughable rather than credible. Samoa Joe threatening Scott Steiner with a hunting knife is a case in point. I don't know whether that whole Nation of Violence angle is disturbing or humorous in its absurdity. TNA tries at times, but the fact is that a large portion of their wrestlers are completely washed-up (i.e. Kevin Nash and Mick Foley would both be better served replacing the awful commentators on Impact rather than wrestling on it.)
Why was ECW so great before it was co-opted by the McMahons? Because it was a wrestling program designed for adults. The violence was extreme. The angles were edgy. The wrestlers gave it their all every night of the week. Where else could you see Raven and Tommy Dreamer nailing each other over their heads with frying pans on the same card as a Dean Malenko - Eddy Guerrero technical masterpiece. ECW was the best federation to ever grace a television set. Perhaps ROH, which has the best action I've ever seen, can step in to the role of ECW, but without a television presence, stars like Necro Butcher, Tyler Black, and Bryan Danielson won't become household names until they go to the big leagues. The fact is that wrestling fans are made as kids in most cases, but when they grow up, they require something a little bit different, a little bit more mature, to keep them enamored of their favorite sport. Here's hoping another alternative can arise.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Starrcade 2000: Best PPV of All Time
by Alfonso Colasuonno
WCW's post-NWA life can be traced in a pretty neat progression. The late 80s and early 90s were solid times with significant talent (Sting, Flair, Luger, Steamboat, Rude, Vader, etc.) but little appreciation on the national level as compared to McMahon's Stamford based behemoth. Signing Hulk Hogan captured people's attention, if not for having the biggest star in wrestling, for re-creating WWF circa 1989. Then with the NWO, WCW began to be taken seriously. They brought in spectacular technical performers from around the world such as Rey Mysterio, Ultimo Dragon, Dean Malenko, and Chris Jericho who wrestled A+ matches and topped off the night with the biggest stars in the biz. And then egos got in the way and it all turned to crap until Vince bought the company and trashed it. That's the history of WCW, right?
Wrong. At least on the last part. I am here to tell you that the most magnificent pay per view event ever was not a Wrestlemania, it was a Starrcade. Starrcade 2000 in fact. Brought to the fans from the MCI Center in Washington DC to only 6,596 paying customers and ridiculously low pay-per-view numbers, Starrcade 2000 was an under the radar gem from the beginning to the end...well maybe just the first two-thirds of the card.
Starrcade 2000 started off with a ladder match between six high-octane performers - Shane Helms and Shannon Moore of boy band 3 Count (try getting their theme out of your head, sickening as it is), the Jung Dragons (featuring perennial jobber Jimmy Wang Yang and Kaz Hayashi) and Jamie (K)noble and Evan Karagias. The action was non-stop. These young guys gave it their all. Granted, the conclusion of the match - Helms and Moore reaching the contract to face Chavo Guerrero for the lightweight title at the same time - was bunk. Still, the 3 Count theme song was as nauseatingly appealing as "It's Gonna Be Me."
Lance Storm versus The Cat was a solid match. The anti-American Canadian angle is always one of my favorite wrestling stock devices. To think of Hacksaw Duggan turning on the USA, albeit half-heartedly. Well, it was just an epic moment.
Crowbar vs. Terry Funk for the hardcore title was great. First of all, Daffney's ear-piercing screams throughout the match coupled with her nasal accent was great for those who want to learn how to withstand torture. Terry Funk wrestled even worse than you would think a 56 year old could wrestle. He barely could move, yet won the match. To put it simply, Terry Funk in this match makes a modern day Tommy Dreamer look like the most nimble wrestler around.
KroniK vs. Big Vito and Reno? Well, it was an unspectacular match. The twist of Reno turning on Big Vito was still impressive. OK, one subpar match can be excused.
Then the highlight of the night came in the next match....Bam Bam Bigelow crashing through an ambulance in an ambulance match against Mike Awesome. Granted Bam Bam Bigelow has always been a never was, yet always was promoted like a could have been, well Mike Awesome showed a for all intents and purposes fitting end to Bam Bam's career.
Shane Douglas vs. General Rection. Come on, Shane Douglas was one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. And he's facing a guy named General Hugh G. Rection. The match was actually surprisingly good. Shane Douglas' theme song was killer.
The best match of the night was a bunkhouse street fight between the Filthy Animals (Konnan, Rey Mysterio, and Billy Kidman) against Jeff Jarrett and the Harris Brothers. It was as frenetic and violent a match as I've seen in WCW. To see six men going at it at once was incredible (although oddly, midway through the match, tags began to be enforced)
The last three matches were unspectacular. DDP and Nash pinned the Perfect Event for the tag team titles, Goldberg beat Luger easily, and Scott Steiner wrestled Sid Vicious in a solid main event.
All that can be said to justify my opinion is that never have I been so enraptured watching a pay-per-view from the comfort of my own home. You might say that it was just so bad it turned good. You might be right. All that I know is that Starrcade 2000 was the premier event in wrestling history (for me, at least).
WCW's post-NWA life can be traced in a pretty neat progression. The late 80s and early 90s were solid times with significant talent (Sting, Flair, Luger, Steamboat, Rude, Vader, etc.) but little appreciation on the national level as compared to McMahon's Stamford based behemoth. Signing Hulk Hogan captured people's attention, if not for having the biggest star in wrestling, for re-creating WWF circa 1989. Then with the NWO, WCW began to be taken seriously. They brought in spectacular technical performers from around the world such as Rey Mysterio, Ultimo Dragon, Dean Malenko, and Chris Jericho who wrestled A+ matches and topped off the night with the biggest stars in the biz. And then egos got in the way and it all turned to crap until Vince bought the company and trashed it. That's the history of WCW, right?
Wrong. At least on the last part. I am here to tell you that the most magnificent pay per view event ever was not a Wrestlemania, it was a Starrcade. Starrcade 2000 in fact. Brought to the fans from the MCI Center in Washington DC to only 6,596 paying customers and ridiculously low pay-per-view numbers, Starrcade 2000 was an under the radar gem from the beginning to the end...well maybe just the first two-thirds of the card.
Starrcade 2000 started off with a ladder match between six high-octane performers - Shane Helms and Shannon Moore of boy band 3 Count (try getting their theme out of your head, sickening as it is), the Jung Dragons (featuring perennial jobber Jimmy Wang Yang and Kaz Hayashi) and Jamie (K)noble and Evan Karagias. The action was non-stop. These young guys gave it their all. Granted, the conclusion of the match - Helms and Moore reaching the contract to face Chavo Guerrero for the lightweight title at the same time - was bunk. Still, the 3 Count theme song was as nauseatingly appealing as "It's Gonna Be Me."
Lance Storm versus The Cat was a solid match. The anti-American Canadian angle is always one of my favorite wrestling stock devices. To think of Hacksaw Duggan turning on the USA, albeit half-heartedly. Well, it was just an epic moment.
Crowbar vs. Terry Funk for the hardcore title was great. First of all, Daffney's ear-piercing screams throughout the match coupled with her nasal accent was great for those who want to learn how to withstand torture. Terry Funk wrestled even worse than you would think a 56 year old could wrestle. He barely could move, yet won the match. To put it simply, Terry Funk in this match makes a modern day Tommy Dreamer look like the most nimble wrestler around.
KroniK vs. Big Vito and Reno? Well, it was an unspectacular match. The twist of Reno turning on Big Vito was still impressive. OK, one subpar match can be excused.
Then the highlight of the night came in the next match....Bam Bam Bigelow crashing through an ambulance in an ambulance match against Mike Awesome. Granted Bam Bam Bigelow has always been a never was, yet always was promoted like a could have been, well Mike Awesome showed a for all intents and purposes fitting end to Bam Bam's career.
Shane Douglas vs. General Rection. Come on, Shane Douglas was one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. And he's facing a guy named General Hugh G. Rection. The match was actually surprisingly good. Shane Douglas' theme song was killer.
The best match of the night was a bunkhouse street fight between the Filthy Animals (Konnan, Rey Mysterio, and Billy Kidman) against Jeff Jarrett and the Harris Brothers. It was as frenetic and violent a match as I've seen in WCW. To see six men going at it at once was incredible (although oddly, midway through the match, tags began to be enforced)
The last three matches were unspectacular. DDP and Nash pinned the Perfect Event for the tag team titles, Goldberg beat Luger easily, and Scott Steiner wrestled Sid Vicious in a solid main event.
All that can be said to justify my opinion is that never have I been so enraptured watching a pay-per-view from the comfort of my own home. You might say that it was just so bad it turned good. You might be right. All that I know is that Starrcade 2000 was the premier event in wrestling history (for me, at least).
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