5-17-12 Impact results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the May 17, 2012 episode of Impact

The show starts with Bobby Roode coming to the ring. He talks about how he beat RVD at Sacrifice in Van Dam’s kind of match. He says that RVD gave him one of the most grueling matches he’s had in his career, but he came out the Champion and proved everyone wrong again. Then he says that next week he will officially be the longest reigning TNA World Champion in TNA history. He says host a party and call it the “It factor’s celebration of domination”. Then he tells Hulk Hogan to come out. Hulk comes to the ring. Roode takes out a list of demands for his party. He wants his dressing room redecorated and wants 5 chilled champagne bottles. He also says he wants on green M&M’S. He also wants golden confetti from Canada to come down from the ceiling. Then Hogan takes the list and he says that out of all the champions he’s seen, that till Roode became champion people were stabbing each other in the back looking to become World Champion, but Roode ended that by becoming champion. He says that everyone is coming after him. Then he tears up Roode’s list. Then he says that next week is Open Fight Night. He tells Roode that he will defend his World Title. Roode complains and Hulk asks which title should be defended. Roode says he doesn’t care as long as it’s not the World Title. Hulk says Roode will defend the title tonight anyway. Then the whole TNA locker room comes out on the stage. Then Hulk says that there will be a series of matches tonight. He announces RVD vs. Bully Ray first. Then Jeff Hardy vs. Ken Anderson. He makes Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe third and finally a battle royal. The winners of those matches will be in a 4 Way next week. Hogan says that the winner of the 4 Way will challenge Roode for the World Title. This was a mixed bag opening segment. Roode cut a good promo as usual but Hogan of course was typical Hogan. I thought Hogan saying that everyone was stabbing each other in the back before he won the title was idiotic!

They replay Abyss’ promo at the end of last week’s Impact.

Rob Van Dam vs. Bully Ray in a 4 Way Qualifier. Ray gets the pin. This was a good match. RVD had his left elbow and left knee taped up to sell the injuries from the Sacrifice match.

Bully Ray is backstage and says that pissed at the Kardashians for jumping on the anti-bullying band wagon. Then Joseph Park comes in and apologizes for getting involved in his match Sunday. Then he mentions Abyss’ promo about staying away from the fire. He says Ray is the fire. Ray tells him to stay away. Decent segment.

They show last week’s MMA Uncensored with King Mo & Dixie Carter, where they talk about King Mo signing with TNA. I never heard of this guy before last Thursday and I don’t know why they brought him in. I wasn’t into this.

Gail Kim and Madison Rayne are backstage and Gail is complaining about having to face Brooke & Velvet. Madison says she’s going to fix her hair and wishes Gail good luck. Then Brook & Velvet show up and they say that Gail Kim cheated to win at Sacrifice. Then Velvet says that either she or Brooke will beat her for the Knockouts Title. This was dumb.

Battle Royal a 4 Way Qualifier. AJ Styles wins. This was decent. Madison Rayne watched from the stage. I guess the guy she has a thing for is in the battle royal.

Back from commercial and they recap the whole AJ-Daniels-Kazarian angle.

Back to the show and AJ says that he will beat Roode for the World Title. Then AJ tries to explain the Dixie photos. He says that they have been business partners for 10 years. Then he says that things aren’t always as they seem. Then Daniels & Kazarian come out. Daniels says that last week the world saw photographic proof of how he got to where he is today. Then Kazarian says that this hasn’t been about humiliating AJ but exposing a truth that AJ has benefited from for 10 years. Then Kazarian asks what the deal with the pictures is. AJ says he explained it all. Then Daniels says maybe they misunderstood one of the pics. Then he says that is why they have videos. Then Kazarian takes out a camera and they show a video of AJ & Dixie walking into a hotel room together. Daniels says more but AJ get upset. Daniels says he struck a nerve and that the truth hurts. AJ walks to the back all upset. This is really idiotic! What is the point of this storyline!?

Samoa Joe & Kurt Angle are backstage. Joe says that it’s a shame he has to go through Angle to get his title back. Angle says that it’s all about who makes the first move. Then he slaps. They brawl for a bit and then the other wrestlers come in to break it up. This was a good backstage segment.

Ken Anderson talks about his match with Jeff Hardy at Sacrifice. He talks the controversial finish and says he will give Jeff another shot tonight and will beat him again. Then he says that he will win the World Title next week. Decent promo.

They show clips from the AJ Styles-Samoa Joe-Christopher Daniels X Division Title match from Unbreakable in September 2005. This is one of the greatest matches ever in TNA!

Jeff Hardy vs. Ken Anderson in a 4 Way Qualifier. Jeff gets the pin. This was a really good match. Afterwards they hug each other.

Brooke Tessmacher vs. Velvet Sky vs. Knockouts Champion Gail Kim for the Title. Gail wins when she pins Brooke. This was a good back and forth match. Velvet gave Brooke here finisher and then Gail chucked Velvet out of the ring and pinned Brooke.

Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe in a 4 Way Qualifier. Angle gets the pin. This was a good match too. Bobby Roode came out to do commentary. Afterwards Bobby Roode stands on the stage and he and Angle taunt each other. Then Jeff Hardy shows up in the crowd. Then Bully Ray comes out and then AJ Styles does. They all stare down Roode to end the show. I liked having the 4 possible challengers coming out and facing off with Roode. Good ending.

I though this was a decent show overall. Roode’s opening promo was good as usual. I wasn’t into Hogan’s part of the segment however. The end with Ray, Jeff, AJ & Angle all staring down Roode was good and I liked the Joe-Angle match too. I thought Jeff Hardy & Ken Anderson a really good back and forth match and I liked the Knockouts match too. Both matches had good pinfall reversals. I’m not sure where they’re going with AJ, Daniels & Kazarian. This whole angle about AJ & Dixie is idiotic. The battle royal was solid too. I also like the RVD-Ray match. Ray was also good backstage with Joseph Park. I’m not into the Madison storyline but we’ll see how that plays out. I wasn’t into the King Mo piece that they showed from MMA Uncensored last Thursday either. But On the whole I thought this was a decent show.

5-14-12 Raw results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the May 14, 2012 episode of Raw

The show starts with Triple H backstage. He has his arm in a cast. He bumps into Johnny Ace and Ace tells Hunter that it was painful to watch Brock beat up Triple H. Then he says that wants Hunter to know that he has Ace’s support. Ace asks him if he’s gonna say anything. Triple H says that he will say what’s on his mind in the ring. Then he wishes Johnny good luck in his match with John Cena.

Triple H comes to the ring. He says that everyone wants to know his thoughts on Lesnar. He says it’s not the physical that bother’s him. He is offended by what Brock about bringing legitimacy back to WWE. Then he mentions that the night before at WrestleMania he was facing Taker. He says that Brock’s arrogance and stupidity offend him, Taker, Backlund, Taker, Michaels, Austin and Savage. Hunter says that it also offends him as a fan. He says that he will always be part of the WWE Universe and Brock offends him. Then he says that he was slightly embarrassed not because a 300 pound guy attacked him from behind, but because he bought into Brock’ crap. The same spiel he fell for in 2002. Then he mentions that back then Lesnar made it but then when things got tough he quit. Then he mentions how Brock went to UFC and says that when the fight wasn’t so easy he quit that too. He mentions that Lesnar decided to return to WWE because he figured he could take Cena. Hunter then says Cena reached deep inside himself and beat Lesnar. Then he mentions that Brock came out the next night making all these demands and he was told no. Hunter then says that Brock once again quit. He was going to say more but Brock’s music hits and Paul Heyman and a lawyer guy come out. Heyman says that Hunter lost his biggest star and that he truly screwed up as a businessman. He then mentions Brock’s contract and says that Hunter ripping it up is a breach of that contract. Then he says that Hunter doesn’t get the seriousness of this situation but he does get this. The lawyer hands Triple H a paper and Triple H says that Lesnar is suing him. He says that Brock expected a fight from Hunter and didn’t get it. He says more but Triple H knocks the mic out of his hands. He had his hands on Heyman’s face like he’s gonna hit him. Then he backs off and tells Heyman to tell Brock he will get everything he deserves. Hunter heads up the ramp but Heyman says that Triple H screwed up again. He says that because Hunter put his hands on him he now has a second law suit on his hands. He says that he will see Triple H in court. This was a really good opening segment. Triple H cut a good promo and of course Heyman’s promo was outstanding!

WWE Champion CM Punk & U.S. Champion Santino Marella vs. Daniel Bryan & Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes. Punk & Santino win when Punk pins Cody. This was a good match.

Alicia Fox vs. Beth Phoenix. Beth gets the pin. This was a squash. Layla watched from the stage and applauds Beth. Afterwards Beth goes after Alicia but Layla hits the ring gives Beth a face plant and runs her off.  

They show a video package of John Cena’s Make A Wish grants. The guy really does do a lot!

Johnny Ace & David Otunga come to ringside to watch the Big Show-Kane match.

Big Show vs. Kane. Kane gets the pin. This was ok. Johnny Ace gets the mic and tells Big Show he wants an apology now. Kane then choke slams Big Show for the 3 count. Afterwards Johnny gets in the ring and tells Show to talk to him like a man. Then Johnny talks about Show mimicking his voice last week. He says that he isn’t going to take it. He says he wants an apology and it better be good or he will can him. Big Show gets a mic and says that he’s been thinking about what he will say tonight. Then he talks about how he’s been in wrestling 18 years. He says there’s a part of him that can walk away with his head held hi, but he loves what he does. He loves performing for the fans. He talks about the friendships he’s made in the back. Show asks Johnny not to erase 18 years of his life. He says Johnny can fine or bar him from having a title match. He then says that Ace has any ounce of decency he will let him do what he loves. Johnny says he never heard Show say he’s sorry. Show said he said it. Johnny says that the fans didn’t hear it. Show says he’s sorry again. Johnny then says now that Show said he’s going to have to prove it. He tells Show to get on his knees and beg him. Show cries and debates what to do. He hints getting to his knees but is all torn about it. Then Show says that he will beg. He says again that he’s sorry and asks Johnny not to make him get on his knees. Johnny says that Show disgusts him. Then he says that he doesn’t care about the fans or Show. He does he does what is right for business. Then Johnny says he will reconsider. Johnny & Otunga head up the ramp and Ace was about to can Show but Show told him to wait. Show then drops to his knees and apologizes. Ace says for what. Show says he apologizes for mimicking his voice and he won’t do it again. He asks Ace if he’s happy. Ace says he’s not and wishes Show the best in his future endeavors and he cans him. This was terrible! Why are they making Big Show look so week!? I thought Show was good in his delivery but this storyline is idiotic!

Brodus Clay and WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & R- Truth vs. The Miz, Jack Swagger & Dolph Ziggler. Brodus, Kofi & Truth win when Brodus pins Miz. This was decent. They show the A.W. stable watching from the sky box.  

CM Punk & Alex Riley are backstage and then AJ comes by. Riley leaves and AJ wishes Punk good luck Sunday. Punk says he doesn’t want to get involved with what’s going on with her & Daniel Bryan. He says he’s known Daniel for years but he hasn’t known AJ that long and says that she’s unstable.

Sheamus comes to ringside to do commentary for the Orton-Jericho match.

Randy Orton vs. Chris Jericho. Jericho wins by DQ. Jericho threw Orton into Sheamus during the match. Then Sheamus yanks Jericho out of the ring and that leads to a DQ win. Afterwards Sheamus & Orton argue again. Then they get in the ring but referees come in to break it up. The match was good and it made sense not to have a clean finish. Sheamus & Orton getting ready to go at it was good too.

Michael Cole announces that Eve tweeted that Sheamus will face Randy Orton on Smackdown.

Johnny Ace comes to the ring. He says that he is sorry that Cena is everyone’s favorite superstar because that makes them all losers. He calls Cena a loser after the last to PPV matches he’s had. Johnny says that he is better than Rock & Brock combined and he will beat Cena at Over the Limit. Then he says if there weren’t any losers like the fans there wouldn’t be any winners like him. Then Cena’s music plays and he heads to the ring. He says that desperation is a stinky cologne. Then he does his usual cartoon funny man shtick mimicking his voice. Then he makes light of Ace canning Big Show. He then runs down Ace’s track record. He says that at WrestleMania Ace didn’t do anything. He also wanted CM Punk not to be WWE Champion but he still is. Then he mentions how Ace brought in Brock to take out Cena but that didn’t work either. Then he says Johnny is a loser. This is really stupid! Cena’s making these chimp noises while saying loser. UGH! Then Cena says that Ace will be a loser at Over The limit too. Cena mentions how Ace has stepped on everyone and that he should change people power to person power because all that matters to Johnny is Johnny. He does more of his cartoon super hero funny man gimmick. He asks the fans how bad they want to pummel Johnny. They cheer. Cena says that Ace has no concept of reality (Neither does Vince). Then he says that he can’t think of a better place to give Johnny a wake up call right here in Pittsburgh. Then he talks about the legend of the steel curtain and says that he will destroy Ace at Over The Limit. Then Johnny says something and Cena says he couldn’t hear him. Then he keeps cutting Ace off by saying loser. Then Ace calls the Pittsburgh Penguins losers. Cena says some of the Penguins are at the show tonight. Then Cena gets a hockey puck out and tells Johnny to go puck himself. TERRIBLE!! Johnny says that he is Big Johnny. He says he is taller and better looking than Cena and he knows that bothers Cena. Then he says that as GM he can do whatever he wants with a match. Then Eve gets in the ring and hands Johnny a sheet of paper. Cena snatches it and says it’s from the Board of Directors. The note is about the Cena-Ace match at Over The Limit. It says that the match will be one on one with no guest referee. No one is allowed at ringside. The only ways to win are by pinfall or submission. Also any superstar who gets involved in the match they will be immediately terminated. Then he reads that if Ace loses to Cena then Ace will be officially terminated. Cena talks about Johnny saying that he had a major announcement. He asks what it is and Johnny slaps him. Then he walks to the back. Cena stares at the stage to end the show. This was typical John Cena stupidity! Why do they feel the need to have Cena be this wise cracking, joke machine, cartoon character!? This is what turns fans against Cena!!

I thought this week’s show was a step down from last week’s. For a go home show I didn’t think they did much to hype up the PPV. The opening segment with Triple H & Paul Heyman was good. Hunter cut a decent promo and Heyman cut a really good one! He saved the segment. The closing segment was crap! Cartoon Cena strikes again!! Orton & Jericho had a good match but the DQ finish wasn’t a shocker. Orton & Sheamus getting ready to go at it was good. The 6 man tag was decent but pretty much pointless. Brodus pinned Miz AGAIN! The Big Show-Johnny Ace segment was also terrible. They made Big Show look like a real weakling, which is beyond stupid! Punk & Santino vs. Daniel & Cody was good. That was one of the better parts of the show. The backstage bit with CM Punk & AJ was good too. Punk saying that he’s known Bryan for years and saying that AJ is unstable was good. AJ plays the psycho role well. The Alicia-Beth match was a squash. This was more of a way to build to Layla vs. Beth at Over The Limit. Overall I thought this was a weaker show than last Monday!

5-11-12 Smackdown results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the May 11, 2012 episode of Smackdown

The show starts with World Champion Sheamus & Randy Orton vs. Chris Jericho & Alberto Del Rio. The match ends in a Double DQ when a brawl starts. Afterwards Sheamus goes at it with Jericho while Orton goes at it with Alberto. Referees come in to break it up. Orton chucks Del Rio out of the ring and Orton punches him on the floor, while Sheamus and Jericho continue brawling in the ring. Sheamus clotheslines Jericho over the top rope out of the ring and Orton clotheslines Del Rio over the barrier. The match was good but this was more about building to the 4 Way. Having the DQ finish made sense since you don’t wanna have any of these guys do a clean job. The brawling was good too.

Michael Cole announces that because of the double DQ ending to the tag match, Eve has made 2 singles matches for later in the show. Orton vs. Del Rio and Sheamus vs. Jericho.

Kaitlyn vs. AJ. AJ gets the quick pin. AJ pounded the crap out of Kaitlyn the whole match. Afterwards AJ attacks Kaitlyn again. Then Daniel Bryan’s music hits and he comes out. He gets in the ring and says and was impressed with her gusto. He says that he had no idea that she could be so ruthless. He says that if she wanted to send him a message he got it and he sees her in a new light. Then he says there has been a lot of tension between them since WrestleMania. He says that he is ready to move past it all. Then he says that at Over the Limit after he becomes WWE Champion he is really looking forward to moving on. AJ has this look on her face all happy about what Daniel’s saying. He says that he is looking forward to moving on to Kaitlyn. He laughs it up and AJ intently stares him down. Then she walks out of the ring. Then Daniel does his yes chant. The match wasn’t much but Daniel Bryan cut a good promo as usual. I’m not sure what they’re gonna do with him “moving on to Kaitlyn.” Maybe Daniel & Kaitlyn had this planned all along.

Big Show vs. Daniel Bryan. Daniel wins when he gets the Yes lock on Big Show and the bell rings. Then Johnny Ace comes out and says that Daniel is the winner by submission. Daniels heads up the ramp doing the yes bit again. Then Johnny gets in the ring and says that he heard about Show mimicking his voice on Raw. He asks Show if he thinks it’s funny. Show says no. Johnny says, “No what” and Show says, “No I don’t think it’s funny.” Then Johnny says that Big Show isn’t getting it and says, “No what” again. Then after a bit Big Show says, “No sir.” Then Johnny says that he heard Big Show’s apology from Monday and he says that Show didn’t really mean it. Then Ace mentions what Eve told Show on Raw that outside the wrestling business there isn’t much need for a 400 pound freak. Then Johnny tells Show that Show will apologize to him again this Monday night on Raw and that it better be a good one. Then Johnny Ace walks up the ramp. Then he says that at Extreme Rules Brock Lesnar destroyed John Cena and revolutionized WWE in 1 night. Then he says that he will shock the world when beats Cena at Over the Limit. I wasn’t into this. I don’t know why they have Big Show look so weak.  

Heath Slater is in the ring and he says that Ryback looks like a cave man with a small brain. Then he says that Ryback hasn’t really beaten anybody. Then he says that he hasn’t beaten him, the one man southern rock band. Then he says for Ryback to come out and see what he’s got. Ryback comes out and it’s match time.  

Ryback vs. Heath Slater. Ryback gets the pin. This was a squash.

Lillian Garcia announces that Johnny Ace has made Teddy Long the guest ring announcer for the next match.

Alex Riley vs. Antonio Cesaro. Antonio gets the pin. This was a short match too. Alex got some offense in but this was mostly a squash. Then Long announces Cesaro as the winner. Then Aksana gets the mic and says that to Long no hard feelings but they’re just friends. Then she mentions Antonio and says that she likes the sound of his name. Then she says that Cesaro is her lover. Then they kiss. This was idiotic.

They show a Make a Wish video package that John Cena narrated. This was really good. It’s great that they do this stuff for the Make a Wish kids!

Randy Orton vs. Alberto Del Rio. Orton wins by DQ when Ricardo comes in. Ricardo got on the top rope and dove at Orton, but Orton gave him a mid air RKO. Afterwards Del Rio throws Orton’s left shoulder into the ring post and then locks Orton in the cross arm breaker. Referees come in to break it up and Orton rolls out of the ring. He sells the arm injury on the floor. This was a good match too and again having the DQ finish makes sense.

WWE Tag Team Champion R-Truth vs. Jack Swagger. Truth gets the pin. Truth had Swagger pinned but Dolph yanked Truth’ leg. Then Truth went after Dolph and punched him. Then Kofi dove onto Dolph from the steel steps. Then Swagger clotheslined Truth. Then Truth & Swagger got back in the ring but Kofi gave Swagger the Trouble in Paradise kick from the outside. Then Truth hit his finisher for the pin. This was a decent match. The A.W. stable watched on a monitor backstage.

They show the John Cena interview from Monday.

U.S. Champion Santino Marella & Zack Ryder vs. Darren Young & Titus O’Neil. Darren & Titus win when Titus pins Ryder. This was a decent match. Titus & Darren got in most of the offense of course. Afterwards Titus gets the mic and tells Lillian to announce them as the winners a second time. She does. Then Titus says that they will be the future tag champions. Young asks if the fans no the difference between him & Titus and the rest of the teams in WWE (There aren’t many). Titus says the fans don’t know but he & Darren do. They both say millions of dollars. Then do some of kind of million/billion dollar chant. That was kind of funny. I think this team has potential. Hopefully they’ll be booked right.

Damien Sandow is backstage with Matt Striker. Striker mentions that Sandow has been promising to bring enlightenment but he chose not to compete in his match last week. Striker asks if there is any insight. Sandow sarcastically apologizes if they he spoke confused Striker. He says that “to think you were an educator.” Then he says that his message flew over everybody’s head. He then says that the fans are looking for enlightenment but there’s no one for them to turn to. Then he pretty much says that he is the guy who will bring enlightenment to WWE. Then he says, “This concludes our interview.” Then he says, “You’re welcome.” Great promo. This guy is really amazing as the intellectual heel. This promo was also pretty funny.

Brodus Clay vs. Hunico. Brodus gets the pin. Before the bell rang Hunico & Camacho double teamed Brodus. Then Brodus “funked up” and the bell rang. Brodus went to town on Hunico. Camacho got on the apron but Brodus knocked him off. Then Brodus hit the big splash on Hunico for the pin. There wasn’t much to this.

They reshow Brock Lesnar breaking Triple H’s arm from 2 weeks ago. Then the show the Paul Heyman promo from last week.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Chris Jericho. Jericho wins by DQ when Del Rio comes in. Del Rio threw Jericho into the steel steps then he locked the arm breaker on Sheamus. Then Randy Orton came to the ring and pounds Del Rio. Then Sheamus pushes Orton off Alberto and then Sheamus pounds on Del Rio. Then Orton pulled Sheamus off of him and then they had words. Then Jericho came in and gave Alberto the Code Breaker. Then Orton gave Alberto an RKO. Then Sheamus gives Del Rio a Brogue Kick. Then Orton & Sheamus intently stare each other down to end the show. Good stuff here. I thought they did a good job building up to the 4 way.

I thought this was a solid show overall. The tag match at the start of the show was good. I liked Orton-Del Rio and Sheamus-Jericho too. It made sense to have a DQ/No finish in these matches since they will be in the World Title match. I liked Daniel Bryan’s promo too. I’m not sure what he meant about moving on to Kaitlyn but he does a great job in the heel role. Damien Sandow cut a great promo too. The guy is really funny with his delivery. I’m liking the Titus O’Neil-Darren Young tag team also. They got potential. Overall I thought this was a solid show.

5-10-12 Impact results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the May 10, 2012 episode of Impact

The show starts with Bobby Roode coming to the ring. He brags that he is the greatest and most dominant champion in TNA history. Then he talks about how he took Ken Anderson, Jeff Hardy & RVD. Then he says that in 2 weeks he will officially be the longest TNA Champion ever. Then he says that in 3 days RVD gets in the ring with the “it” factor. Roode says that if RVD thinks he will win the title he is mistaken. He then says there no or nothing that will stop his World Title domination. Then RVD comes out and chases Roode out of the ring. As Roode backs up the ramp Ken Anderson comes out and throws Roode back into the ring. Then Jeff Hardy comes and Roode gets triple teamed. Hardy & Anderson also go at it. Al Snow, D’Lo Brown & Simon Diamond come out to break it up. Then Hulk Hogan comes out and says that he likes what’s going on. He says that he has an idea that he needs RVD to agree too. If RVD does tonight will be 4 way.  RVD vs. Anderson vs. Jeff vs. Roode. The winner gets something if they win. If Anderson or Jeff win they take Van Dam’s place in the title match. If RVD wins he gets to pick the stip for the title match. If Roode wins then he gets to pick who he will face at Sacrifice. Hulk asks RVD if he’s willing to make the Sacrifice. RVD thinks about it for a bit and then he agrees. This was a mixed bag opening segment. Roode’s promo was good and RVD, Hardy & Anderson coming out for the brawl was good too. Hulk making the 4 way was weird. I don’t mind the match but why say that if Jeff or Anderson win they take Van Dam’s spot in the title match? That part I thought was idiotic.

They show Bully Ray backstage saying that Austin Aries made a lot of negative comments to him last week. He says that he’s tired of Aries bullying him and he won’t take it anymore. He says that Aries is the real problem and that he will take him out. Good promo from Ray.

They show Madison Rayne & Gail Kim backstage. Gail says that Brooke might have beaten her in non title and tag matches, but Brooke can’t beat her when the title is on the line. Madison asks how her wardrobe is. Gail asks what’s up. Madison says it’s a guy. Then Gail says that she has to head to ringside to watch the Brooke-Velvet match. This was meaningless.

Brooke Tessmacher vs. Velvet Sky. Brooke gets the pin. This was a good match. Afterwards Gail Kim comes to the ring and hits Brooke with the belt. Then she gives Brooke her finisher and calls her a piece of trash. Good heel stuff from Gail.

Backstage AJ Styles tells the cameraman that he’s focusing on facing Kurt Angle at Sacrifice and has no comment on the “secret” that Daniels & Kazarian have.

Jeff Hardy is backstage talking about the 4 Way. He says that he has a chance to end the “selfish generation.”

Matt Morgan vs. Crimson was supposed to be next, but as Morgan makes his way to the ring, Bully Ray attacks Morgan. He screams at Val & Christie to get out of the way. He gets a chair and hits Morgan over the head. Then he says to the camera that will be Austin Aries. Al, D’Lo & Simon come out to check on a bleeding Morgan and Ray tells D’Lo not to touch him. Back from commercial and they show what happened during the break. Morgan was placed on a stretcher and is wheeled out. Then Crimson says that week after week Morgan would be the guy who make Crimson pay and the first guy to end his undefeated streak. Then he says that Matt couldn’t make it to the ring. Then he tells the referee to count out Morgan. They ring the bell and the referee counts. Then Crimson says that Morgan’s career is done. The attack from Ray was good and I like Crimson’s heel character.

They show and RVD video package talking about risking all to stand out. He says that he knew what he was sacrificing. This was ok.  

X-Division Champion Austin Aries vs. Zima Ion for the Title. Aries gets the pin. This was a good match.

They show Daniels & Kazarian backstage and Daniels says that AJ isn’t there friend. Kazarian isn’t sure about revealing AJ’s “secret.” Whatever.

RVD is backstage talking about the 4 Way. He says he knows he can beat all 3 guys. Then he mentions getting to pick the stip for the Title match if he wins. He says that he is thinking of a Ladder match.

Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian are in the ring. Daniels gets the mic and says that he hasn’t herd from AJ but he will give him one last chance to set the record straight himself. AJ doesn’t come out right away so Daniels says he’s gonna let the cat out of the bag. Then AJ’s theme hits and he comes out. AJ gets the mic and says that this needs to stop now because they’re both about to make the biggest mistake of their lives. Then Kazarian says that AJ made the mistake. Then Kazarian says that he was protecting AJ at first but then he saw the “proof” of AJ’s “mistake.” Then they take out a pic of AJ and Dixie Carter. Daniels says that isn’t the only pic he has. Then they take a second pic out with AJ’s hands on Dixie. Daniels then has Kazarian show him a third pic and it shows AJ making out with Dixie Carter. Daniels says that AJ has been the TNA poster boy since day one. But when looks at the pic, he says that a picture is worth 1000 words. Daniels & Kazarian drop the pics and walk out while AJ is in disbelief. UGH! This is what the big “secret” was!? This is beyond stupid! These guys are really talented performers and have been there pretty much from the start of TNA! AJ has been there since the very first show! And this is the idiotic story TNA comes up with for these guys!? WHY!?

TV Champion Devon vs. Robbie E for the Title. Devon gets the pin. This was a short match. Afterwards Rob Terry gives Devon a power slam. Are there any other guys in TNA for Devon to face besides Robbie E or Rob Terry!?

They show a James Storm video package and talks about Lockdown. He says the right guy didn’t win. He says that he let the people in Nashville down and that he needs to take some time off. He says that he asks himself if he should continue wrestling. He says wrestling is something he has always wanted to do but now he is second guessing himself. He says that not winning the World Title in his home town got to him. Good promo from James Storm.

Joseph Park is backstage and asks some guy which way the ring is. Really? The guy doesn’t know how to get to the ring?

They show Devon backstage saying that if Robbie E & Rob Terry want the TV Title back then to bring it at sacrifice. He challenges them both to a 3 Way.

They recap the Joseph Park looking for Abyss storyline.

Joseph Park comes to the ring and he starts to talk without a mic. He’s given a mic and then he acts all impressed with the Impact Zone. He says that he has watched Abyss’ matches and that he tore the place down. He then thanks Hulk Hogan for letting him come out and speak. He mentions that he’s looking for “his brother.” He says that every clue that he got during the investigation Bully Ray was the common thread. He says that he isn’t going away till he gets answers. Then he mentions that he saw a sign that advertised the Sacrifice PPV. He says that he might get a ticket. Then Bully Ray comes out and says this is a load of crap. He says there’s something not right with Joseph & Abyss. Ray says this isn’t a court room but a wrestling ring. Then he tells Joseph that he has no business being in a ring or an arena. Then he talks about taking out Matt Morgan and asks Joseph how he’d feel if it were him. Then Joseph mentions that when Abyss was last seen it was in a match with Ray. Then he mentions Devon calling Ray out a few weeks ago and mentions that Devon beat him. Then he talks about last week when Aries called Ray out. He mentions that Aries is half Ray’s size but Aries beat him down. Then he asks Ray how the bully thing is working out for him. Then Ray shoves him to the mat. This was idiotic.

Ken Anderson is backstage talking about the 4 Way. He mentions his match with Jeff Hardy at Sacrifice but Jeff will have to step aside if he wins. He says that at Sacrifice he is taking his title back.

Kurt Angle is backstage and he says that AJ should be focusing on their match Sunday. Then he says that afterwards AJ can think about what Daniels & Kazarian revealed all he wants.

They show Hulk Hogan’s TNA debut from January 2010.

They show more of the Rob Van Dam video package with him saying there’s a lot of sacrifice being a wrestler.

Rob Van Dam vs. Ken Anderson vs. Jeff Hardy vs. TNA World Champion Bobby Roode. RVD wins when he pins Roode. This was also a good match. Jeff gave Roode a Twist of Fate and then Anderson gives him a Mic Check. Then Hardy & Anderson brawl out of the ring and that allows RVD to hit the 5 Star Frog Splash for the 3 count. Then RVD gets a ladder out from under the ring and he poses on top of it. Hardy & Anderson also stare down each other. Then Abyss shows up on the stage and says that Joseph is getting to close to the fire. He warns him to back off before he gets burnt. This ends the show. This Abyss storyline is really weird.

I thought this was a mixed bag show overall. The opening segment had its ups and downs. Roode’s promo was good but Hogan saying that Hardy or Anderson might get the title mach at the PPV if they win the 4 Way was idiotic. The 4 Way match itself was had some good action. I thought the James Storm video package was good too. I wasn’t into the “Daniels & Kazarian reveal what they have on AJ” segment. That was idiotic! I wasn’t into Joseph Park either. Ray’s part of the promo was good as usual but this storyline is dumb. Then having Abyss come in and telling his “brother” to back off was weird. I have no idea why they even have this crappy storyline in the first place. The RVD video packages were decent too. Devon-Robbie E was short and I’m hoping there are other guys for Devon to face besides these 2 guys. I liked Brooke-Velvet and Aries-Ion also. I’m not sure what they’re doing with Madison Rayne however. Ray hitting Matt Morgan with the chair was good too and so was Crimson’s promo. Ray’s amazing and his match with Austin Aries should be good. Crimson is good in this heel role too. On the whole I thought I thought this show was a mix of good and not so good.

5-7-12 Raw results and thoughts

           Coverage and thoughts on the May 7, 2012 episode of Raw

The show starts with Justin Roberts introducing Johnny Ace. Johnny comes to the ring and says that he is the authority figure for WWE. He says he won’t allow anyone to challenge his authority, not even Cena. He says that last week Cena called him an idiot. He then says that he injured Cena’s pride and at Over The Limit will do continue what Brock stopped. Then he says he will show the world how dangerous ha can be. Then he says that the Board of Directors understands that he is tough but fair. He says that he has asked that Cena not there live tonight. Johnny says that he wants Cena at 100% so he won’t have any excuses when he loses to him. Then he says that Cena will be live by satellite and be interviewed my Cole. He says that Cena will apologize for mimicking his voice. He says that his voice sounds the way it does because of a match he had with Steve Williams in Japan years ago. Then they show some pics of Johnny’s old matches on the Tron. He says that he was the Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin & Rock all rolled into one. He then says that when WWE offered him a contract back then he said no. Then he says that for one night only we will see John Cena vs. Big Johnny. He says this match will be bigger Than Rock-Cena & Cena-Brock. Then CM Punk comes to the ring and says that Johnny still doesn’t know what the fans want to hear or see. Punk says that he is here to help him out. He tells Johnny that the fans don’t wanna see him all the time. Punk then says that this about Johnny putting his chips on Lesnar and then Cena beat him. Then Punk says that embarrassed Ace. He calls Johnny a hyena picking up the scraps. He says that Johnny was and still is a joke. Punk says he will watch Cena beat him at Over the Limit. Punk asks the fans and they want to hear more. Punk says Johnny is stupid, ugly and he has no friends. Then he calls Ace a gigantic toolbox. Ace says if wasn’t in training he would pummel Punk to the ground. Then Johnny says that tonight Punk will face Lord Tensai. Punk says that Ace has always hid behind other guys. Punk says he looks forward to that and to seeing Cena twist Johnny into a pretzel and watch him tap out. This was a good opening segment. Punk’s promo was great as usual.

They show Johnny Ace backstage texting and he bumps into Big Show. Ace tells him to stay out of his way. Show sarcastically says “whatever you say.” Then Eve shows up and stares down show.

Big Show vs. Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes for the Title. Big Show wins by count out when Cody walks out. Not much of a match. Then Show gets the mic and tells Cody to come back into the ring. Cody heads to the back and Show says that if he has to go after Cody it will be worse. Then Eve Torres comes to the ring and tells Show to apologize. Show asks for what. Eve says for mimicking Johnny Ace’s voice. Show says he’s sorry. Eve says that she told Show to apologize, not to say that he is sorry. Then she says that outside this business there isn’t much need for a guy is size and she calls him a freak. Then she tells him to apologize again. He reluctantly apologizes. Big Show walks up the ramp all pissed. This was stupid. Eve as the executive heel doesn’t work for me. It looks like Cody is in the de-push mode right now. Why do they do this to young guys?

My cable box went out so I might have missed something. My apologies.

Kofi Kingston vs. Dolph Ziggler. Dolph gets the pin after Swagger gets involved. I didn’t see the whole match because of my cable box, but what I saw was decent. They showed A.W, Primo, Epico & Rosa watching backstage and Mason Ryan showed up.

Michael Cole is in the ring. John Cena comes on the Tron and thanks the fans for their concern. Coles asks for an update. Cena says that the doctors told not to compete for the next few months. Cena says that had no idea who they were dealing with. Cole asks if Cena is surprised that the Board of Directors didn’t do anything. Cena says that he talked to the board and told them not to fire Ace till after the PPV. Cole says that because of Johnny’s past accomplishments in the ring Cena might be scared. Cena says that he’s scared of what he will do to Johnny. He says that in 13 days Johnny won’t be a suit. He will be Cena’s opponent and that means he will kick Johnny’s ass. This was a good segment. I thought Cena’s promo was good and quick. I also like they didn’t have Michael Cole go overboard with the heel character.

Divas Champion Layla & Kelly Kelly vs. Natalya & Maxine. Layla & Kelly win when Layla pins Maxine. This wasn’t much either. Beth Phoenix was on commentary.  I don’t why they had Natalya & Maxine team up. I thought Natalya was a face.

World Champion Sheamus & Randy Orton vs. Alberto Del Rio & Chris Jericho. Jericho & Alberto win when Jericho pins Sheamus. This was a good back and forth match. Sheamus was going for the Brogue kick and wound up kicking Orton. Then Jericho hit the Code Breaker for the 3 count. Afterwards Jericho held up the World Title. Then Sheamus helps Orton up but then Orton gives Sheamus an RKO. Is this the start of a Sheamus-Orton rivalry?

Johnny Ace tells Eve that Big Show’s apology was insincere. She says she will talk to Show. Jericho comes in and says that he should get a World Title match since he just pinned Sheamus. Then Del Rio comes in and he and Jericho bicker. Then Orton comes in and says he should get a title match. Then a brawl breaks out and Sheamus comes in. The faces clean house on the heals. The Orton & Sheamus argue. Then Johnny says that at Over The Limit the World Title match will now be a 4 Way. Good segment, but I think it’s kinda soon to be having a 4 Way.

Brodus Clay time. UGH!

The Miz comes out with a mic and does his really bit. He complains about having to face Brodus rather than being in the World Title hunt. He says that after this match he wants Brodus to call his momma and say that he is The Miz and he’s (not so) awesome. Miz has really gotten demoted!

Brodus Clay vs. The Miz. Brodus gets the pin. This was the longest match Brodus has had since this gimmick. It wasn’t much though. They have really pushed Miz down the card.

They recap the Triple H-Brock Lesnar bit from last Monday.

They show a pic of Triple H with his arm in a special cast.

Brock Lesnar’s music plays and PAUL HEYMAN RETURNS! Heyman says that he is here as Brock’s representative. He says Brock has been underappreciated by the fans since day one. He says that also holds true for WWE management. Heyman says that WWE today is different than it was 10 years ago. He talks about the demands Lesnar made 2 weeks ago and that Lesnar feels betrayed by the fans. He says that Brock is the only man In history to hold the NCAA, WWE & UFC Titles. He says that Brock is an honest man. He says that Brock hurt people just like he said he would. Then Heyman says that Brock asked him to be on Raw and read his statement. It says that he came back to bring legitimacy to WWE and got nothing for it. He says that Triple H couldn’t last in a fight with him. The statement read that Hunter broke their agreement so Brock broke Hunter’s arm. Then Heyman reads that Lesnar is never coming back because he quits. This was awesome! I loved seeing Paul Heyman back! That was a great surprise! He cut a great promo as usual too! I like where this storyline is going. I’m guessing we’ll be getting Triple H vs. Brock Lesnar at some point. They should have that at SummerSlam.

They show 2 guys backstage with Big Show saying that he shouldn’t have to apologize to Eve. The guys say they’re detectives. Then they talk like Johnny and Eve shows up again. Whatever. I think those were the guys from Psych.

CM Punk comes out but before the match, Johnny Ace comes out and tells Punk that he will face Lord Tensai & Daniel Bryan next.

WWE Champion CM Punk vs. Lord Tensai & Daniel Bryan. Tensai & Bryan win when Tensai gets the pin. This was a solid match. Afterwards Daniel does his yes chant while Tensai shows his “claw” to the camera. Then Daniel comes in and kicks Punk. Then he gets Pink in the Yes Lock saying that Punk is not better than him. Then Daniel reapplies the hold for a bit. Then he does his yes chant while standing over Punk to end the show. Great post match stuff there.

I thought this was a good show overall. Sheamus & Orton vs. Alberto & Jericho was the best match of the show. The brawl with all 4 guys in Johnny Ace’s office was good too. I’m not sure if I would have set up a Fatal 4 Way for the next PPV, but I thought this was good. Punk vs. Tensai & Bryan was solid too. Bryan is really good at being the cocky heel. He & Punk should have a great match at Over The Limit. I loved seeing Paul Heyman back! That was a nice surprise! He was great with his mic work as usual! Great to have him back. Hopefully they’ll have Triple H vs. Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam. The Miz continues to get pushed down the card. His match with Brodus Clay wasn’t much. I liked Cena’s promo on the Tron too. It was nice and short with him saying that he will be at the PPV and face Johnny Ace. The opening segment was good too. Punk was great on the mic as usual. It was also interesting to see pics of Johnny Ace from back in the day. I’m not into Eve’s character at all. The bits with her & Big Show were weak. The Big Show-Cody Rhodes match wasn’t much either. I don’t know why they feel the need to give the young guys these yo-yo pushes. The divas tag match wasn’t much either. It was more of a way to mention that Layla will defend the title against Beth at over the limit. Kofi-Dolph was decent too. It looks like Mason Ryan will be part of the A.W. stable. On the whole I thought this week’s show was good.

5-4-12 Smackdown results and thoughts

       Coverage and thoughts on the May 4, 2012 episode of Smackdown

The show starts with Sheamus coming to the ring. He says he is out there to do what loves, fight. He says he doesn’t care where it is. He says that is exactly what he will do in the next few minutes. He says that Daniel Bryan almost tore his left shoulder off at Extreme Rules. Then he says that tonight Daniel wants to finish the job. He says that earlier in the night when he was asked if he would fight Daniel Bryan he gave a one word answer. Yes. Then he does Bryan’s yes chant and then Daniel Bryan comes out. Sheamus & the fans chanted yes as Daniel came to the ring. Then Daniel gets in the ring and it looks like we’re getting a rematch right now.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan. Sheamus wins by DQ when Alberto Del Rio & Ricardo Rodriguez come in. Ricardo dives onto Sheamus which leads to the DQ. Then Alberto locks Sheamus in the cross arm breaker. Daniel gets the Yes lock on Sheamus. Referees come in and help Shamus out while Daniel & Alberto argue. This was a solid opening segment/match.

They show Sheamus being checked out by medics. He’s flipping out as the try to check his arm.

WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & R-Truth vs. Hunico & Camacho. Kofi & Truth win when Truth pins Camacho. This was a solid match. Primo, Epico, Rosa & A.W. came out and watched on the stage.

Brodus Clay vs. Jack Swagger. Brodus wins by count out when Swagger walks out. This was ok. Brodus had a few kids come in and take part in his bit afterwards. (Note: Originally Brodus won by DQ but they re did the match. I’m not sure why)

They recap what happened on Raw with John Cena & Johnny Ace this week.

They show Daniel Bryan, Alberto & Ricardo arguing in Johnny’s office and Eve tells them to speak one at a time. Daniel says that he had Sheamus right where he wanted him. He says that he would have beaten him but Del Rio interfered. Then Del Rio says that he is next in line for a World Title match. Then Daniel says that he beat the clock Monday and is next in line for a WWE Title match. Daniel then tells Eve not to let Sheamus take the coward’s way out. He says that Sheamus isn’t hurt that badly. Daniel then demands that his match with Sheamus take place. Then Eve says that she is in charge tonight (Johnny Ace isn’t there). She then says that after she talks with the ringside physicians she will decide if Sheamus competes tonight. Then she tells them both to get out of her office. This was ok. Daniel is really good in his role so it made the segment a bit better.

Damien Sandow comes to the ring for his match with Derek Bateman. But before the match can start Sandow gets the mic. He says that tonight was supposed to be a glorious night. Then he does the bringing enlightenment to the fans bit. The fans chant what and he thanks them for their irrelevant opinion. That was funny. Then he says that to be a true role model for the fans he can not and will not face Bateman. He then says that the fans wouldn’t learn anything if faced Bateman. Then he says that Bateman is an ignoramus just like the fans. He says that he will not compete tonight for the benefit of the fans (meaning that it’s to their benefit if he doesn’t wrestle). Then Sandow walks back up the ramp but then Bateman gets the mic. He says that 5 months ago on NXT he won a chance to be on Smackdown. He says that no matter who is running the show he wants a match. Then Ryback comes out. Sandow’s promo was really good.

Ryback vs. Derek Bateman. Ryback gets the pin. This was a squash. At least they didn’t have any jobbers watching backstage this week.

 Big Show & Randy Orton vs. Kane & Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes. Show & Orton win when Show pins Cody. This was a good match.

Matt Striker is backstage and Sheamus comes out. Matt asks for an update. Sheamus says that he was here to fight and that is exactly what he is going to do. This was good Sheamus promo.

Divas Champion Layla vs. Natalya. Layla gets the pin. This was a decent match. Probably one of the better Diva matches they’ve had.

Backstage Antonio Cesaro & Aksana do a photo shoot. Eve says that Antonio needed to be oiled up and she made Teddy Long do it. Aksana tells Long to rub some on Antonio’s chest. This was stupid.

Kaitlyn & Alicia Fox are backstage and then AJ comes by. Alicia walks off and then AJ tells Kaitlyn that can’t believe what she did Kaitlyn last week. AJ says that wasn’t the real her. Kaitlyn says that when AJ slapped her she felt betrayed. She says that she was trying to help AJ out. Kaitlyn says that she knows that wasn’t the real AJ. Then she tells AJ that this pity party AJ has going over Daniel Bryan has to stop. Then AJ slaps her again and Kaitlyn falls to the floor. This was ok. I like this new role for AJ.

They recap the Triple H-Brock Lesnar segment from Monday.

Alberto Del Rio comes out to do commentary for the main event.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan. Sheamus gets the pin. This was a good back and forth match. Afterwards Sheamus celebrated in the ring with the title while Alberto walked up the ramp and watched. That ended the show.

I thought this was a good show overall. I liked the Sheamus-Daniel Bryan match at the end. The opening segment/match (Sheamus-Daniel) was good too. I also thought the Layla-Natalya match was decent too. One of the better Diva matches WWE has had in a while. Big Show & Orton vs. Kane & Cody was solid too. Damien Sandow cut a great promo. That guy is a tremendous heel! Kofi & Truth vs. Hunico & Camacho was decent too. I’m also interested in what they do with AJ. On the whole I thought this was a good show.

5-3-12 Impact results and thoughts

        Coverage and thoughts on the May 3, 2012 episode of Impact

The show starts with Ric Flair in the ring and he says that Hogan plays with him but he doesn’t have to buy because he is Ric Flair. He talks about how Hulk & Garrett ran Eric out of TNA. Flair says that Hogan doesn’t wanna piss off the wrestling god and he calls out Hogan. Flair says Hogan won’t show up. Then Hulk’s music hits and he comes out. Flair talks about good vs. evil. Flair says Hogan is good but Flair is the baddest man on the planet. He says he is tired of Hogan giving him the business. Hogan says he’s not here to fight Flair. Flair says he’s there to boss him around. Hulk says he’s making a priority to step things up in TNA. Then he talks about all the evil Eric Bischoff spread around TNA. Hulk says there’s a chance for TNA to have a long run. Hogan then asks Flair to be a judge for the Gut Check challenge. Hogan says that with Flair judging talent that would be great. Flair says he’s setting him up and Hulk says he is asking Flair to do this for the fans. He wants Flair to find the up and comers and he doesn’t have to respect Hulk. Flair says that Hulk is telling him and that if Flair said no Hulk would say tough you know what. Hulk says he knows Flair likes being around the young guys. Flair says he will do it. This was the usual Hogan-Flair kind of opening segment. I’m tired of both these guys and if they want to give new guys a chance how’s about they both get off my TV?

Velvet & Brooke are backstage and they say that Gail Kim is a cheater. Brooke says that she beat Gail twice and will beat her a third time. Then Velvet says that one of them will beat Gail for the title.

Brooke Tessmacher & Velvet Sky vs. Madison Rayne & Knockouts Champion Gail Kim. Brooke & Velvet win when Brooke pins Gail. This was a solid match.

They show RVD backstage and Mike Tenay mentions that RVD & Bobby Roode will pick each other’s opponents for tonight. RVD & Roode face off in the ring next.

They show clips from Jeff Jarrett vs. Raven from April 30, 2003.

RVD is in the ring and says that the fans have been entertained by him for years. Then he talks about how great he is. He says he’s one of a kind and is the man who will beat Bobby Roode and be the next World Champion. RVD mentions that he never lost the title in the first place. Then Bobby Roode comes out on the stage and says that RVD sounds overconfident. Then Bobby says that he is the World Champion. He says he is the most dominant champion in Impact Wrestling history. He did that by beating guys like AJ Style, Jeff Hardy, Sting & James Storm. Then he says at Sacrifice he will beat RVD. Then he mentions that Hulk Hogan will be letting each other pick their opponents. Roode asks RVD who his opponent will be. RVD tells Roode he will be facing Ken Anderson. Rood says that’s great. Then he picks RVD’s opponent and it’s Jeff Hardy. He wishes RVD good luck. This was a solid segment. Roode’s promo was good but RVD didn’t really say much.

TV Champion Devon vs. Rob Terry for the Title. Devon wins by DQ when Robbie E hits Devon with a record. This match was ok. Robbie E screamed at Devon. Then he stood over him holding the TV Title.

They show Ric Flair & Al Snow backstage and Al tells Flair that Bruce Pritchard will be the third Gut Check judge. They talk for a bit. There wasn’t much to this.

Back to the judges and they debate if they should Alex Silva a contract. Flair says the guy isn’t big enough. Al says he has potential. Pritchard says he can be in the X Division. They discuss it for awhile. Then Al asks both guys to keep an open mind. This was a little long. I’ve mentioned my feelings on Flair before. I thought Al & Bruce were ok in this.

They show Hulk Hogan backstage with Ken Anderson talking about the match RVD made for Anderson to face Bobby Roode. Hulk says that the match will be No DQ. Anderson likes it. This was lame. I’m tired of both these guys.

Rob Van Dam vs. Jeff Hardy. RVD gets the pin. Bobby Roode came to ringside and hit Jeff in the back with the belt. Then RVD got the pin. This was a good match. I wish Jeff would get rid of that freaky face paint though!

They show Bully Ray backstage and he runs into Joseph Park. Joseph says that Ray never gave him any answers last week. The Ray says he isn’t giving him answers this week either. Then Joseph says that he knows that Ray had something to do with his “brother’s” disappearance. Ray says that if he keeps sneaking around him he will be missing too. This was decent. Ray cut a good promo as usual.

Jeremy Borash is backstage. He talks about having to deal with Eric Bischoff. Then Bully Ray comes in and says he wants to hear everything JB has to say about Eric. Ray pulls him by the collar and drags him to ringside. Ray gets the mic and says that JB bullied Eric. Then they go in the ring and Ray says that he’s tired of hearing about anti-bullying. He says they should start a “Stop being a little B**ch and stand up for yourself” campaign. He says that the fans would love to see JB punch Ray. Ray says he walks all over him because he can. Then Austin Aries comes to the ring. Ray tells him not to step in the ring. Aries gets in the ring and says that when Ray called him out he called him out on his size. Then Aries says that Ray spent most of his career as a poster boy for all you can eat buffets. Then Ray says that playtime is over. He tells Aries that he represents small guys and isn’t going to stand up for himself. Ray spits in Aries face and then Aries pounds Ray. Security come in to pull Aries off Ray. Then Ray kicks Aries. This was a good segment. Ray was really good at being the over the top bully. He did it so well I was actually starting to hate him. I got a slight chuckle out of him taking a jab at the anti-bullying campaign.

They show Daniels & Kazarian backstage and Kazarian says that since Hulk didn’t give them the tag title match they took it for Sacrifice. Daniels says they will show the AJ pics. Then Kurt Angle screams at them to shut up. He says he doesn’t care about what they’re doing. Then Angle says that he make AJ tap at Sacrifice. Then Daniels & Kazarian asked each other why Angle is upset since he always wins. This was decent.

Roode is backstage saying that he has no problem beating Anderson. Then he asks why Hulk made it a No DQ. Then he says that if RVD thinks he will win the Title he’s got another thing coming. This was a good promo.

AJ Styles and Tag Team Champions Magnus & Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle, Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian. AJ, Magnus & Joe win when AJ pins Kazarian. This was a good match and the best part of the show. Angle gets upset with Daniels & Kazarian during & after the match. After Kurt leaves Daniels says that if AJ doesn’t reveal what his secret is next week then they will. Who cares about this?

Al Snow, Bruce Pritchard & Ric Flair are in the ring. Al says that tonight they will decide if Alex Silva gets a TNA contract. Then Al asks Silva to come out. Silva comes to the ring. Flair says he likes his attitude but says no. Pritchard says that he’s seen what Silva can do in OVW and he votes yes. AL says that he knows Silva has the desire to be on Impact. Then he says that 2 of the 3 judges need to vote yes for Silva to get a contract. Flair says no. Al says yes. Then Al tells him that he has 30 seconds to “sell” himself. Silva says that he was 13 and poor. Flair tells him not to talk to the marks (that was a stupid comment). He tells Silva to start again and has another 30 seconds. Silva says that he moved from Canada to the U.S. to get into the business. Flair changes his vote to yes. Then Pritchard says that if they hadn’t have given him the chance to speak now he would have said no. Then he votes yes. Al welcomes him to the Impact roster. I wasn’t really a big fan of this. It went a little too long for me.

Ken Anderson vs. TNA World Champion Bobby Roode in a No DQ match. Roode gets the pin. This was also a good match. Jeff Hardy came out during the match and went after Roode. Then as Jeff went over to Anderson, Anderson gave him a mic check. Then Roode hits Anderson with a chair and then gets the Fisherman Suplex for the pin. Afterwards Roode continues his attack and then RVD comes out. Roode bails. RVD turns his back and then Roode hits RVD with the chair. They lay on the mat selling Roode’s beating to end the show.

I thought this was a mixed bag show overall. I couldn’t stand the opening Hogan-Flair promo. Get those 2 off my TV NOW! The Anderson-Roode match was good stuff. The post match stuff was good too. Roode is really good as the heel champion. I thought the 6 man tag was the highlight of the show. All 6 guys worked hard. I wasn’t into the Gut Check segment. I thought the whole thing was too long. I’ve said what I think of Flair. I’m not a big fan of Al Snow or Bruce Pritchard either. This didn’t work for me. The Austin Aries-Bully Ray-JB segment was good. Ray did a great job at playing the obnoxious bully here. Aries’ promo was good too. JB cut a good promo in the backstage at the start of this also. I thought they played off of each other really well. RVD & Jeff Hardy had a good match too. The RVD-Bobby Roode segment was decent too. RVD didn’t really say much. He seemed to sound kind of zoned out. Roode’s promo was really good and that saved this segment. The Knockouts tag match was solid too. Brooke has now pinned Gail Kim 3 times so it looks like she will be challenging for the Knockouts Title next. That or a 3 Way with Velvet. Devon vs. Rob Terry was ok for what it was. Rob Terry is very limited in the ring. I’m not sure what a Devon vs. the 2 Robbies feud will do for Devon. I could also care less about this secret that Daniels & Kazarian have on AJ. I read the spoilers so I know what it is. SO overall I thought this was a middle of the road show.