10-15-12 Raw results and thoughts

        Coverage and thoughts on the October 15, 2012 episode of Raw

 The show starts with Big Show coming to the ring. He says that 2 weeks ago he was in the ring…then the fans boo. He says he was in the ring for a debate. A debate that was a cleaver joke put together by Booker T & Sheamus in an attempt to make him look foolish. He says he’s not the guy who looked like a fool. All the fans look like fools because everyone told him to watch out for the Brogue Kick. Then Show has everyone take a look at what happens when you try to Brogue Kick a giant. Then they reshow him blocking Sheamus’ Brogue Kick from last week. He says the look on Sheamus’ face was a look of someone being way over his head. Then he talks about the Brogue vs. WMD challenge from Smackdown. He says he wanted nothing to do with that because he didn’t want to embarrass Sheamus. Then they reshow Big Show punching the bag from Smackdown. Show asks if he has everyone’s attention now. Then he says in 2 weeks he will be hitting Sheamus, KO him and become the largest World Champion. Just so he doesn’t have to hear anymore garbage about his 45 second title reign. He tells the fans not to tweet him about that. He says he will correct that mistake tonight. Then the fans chant 45 seconds. Then Show says that he wants Daniel Bryan tonight. With 1 punch and 1 pin he will erase the 45 second title reign. He tells Daniel to come out. They show Daniel Bryan, Kane, R-Truth, Santino Marella, Zack Ryder, Justin Gabriel & Aksana backstage. R-Truth tells “Little Jimmy” to keep his eyes on that. Then they show Kane & Daniel. Daniel says he can’t believe Show’s still hung up on that. Then AJ comes by and says that Show has an interesting idea. Then she reminds Daniel that he called her quirky and unpredictable. Then she tells Daniel to get out there. Then Kane laughs. Daniel screams no and Kane and whoever else was there scream yes. Then Daniel Bryan comes to the ring. I thought this was a little hokey. Show’s promo was alright but I wasn’t really into the backstage part of this segment. The whole yes-no bit has gotten old and the friction with Kane & Daniel is hit and miss.

Daniel Bryan vs. Big Show. Big Show gets the pin. This was alright but short. Then Kane comes to the ring and he’s all smiles. Then Big Show puts up his fist. Then Kane gets in the ring. Then Big Show leaves. Then Kane & Daniel scream yes and no at each other again.

Paul Heyman is in the ring. He says who he is and tonight he is honored to introduce a man who carries himself with dignity both in and out of the ring. Heyman says that the champ will say who he will defend the title against. Then he says that this day 330 of his WWE Title reign. Then he brings out CM Punk. Punk says that last week was a perfect microcosm of what his life has become. Someone questions his integrity and he proves them wring. He doesn’t care who it is, Bret Hart, Jim Ross, Cena, or The Rock. But least of all he doesn’t care if it’s the fans. Then he says that last week it happened to be Mr. McMahon’s turn to find out what Punk’s about. Punk says it was typical Vince trying to make the show revolve around himself. Then he mentions that he slapped Vince in the face. Then punk says that Vince put up a fight but Punk victimized him and Vince will never compete again. And for that we can thank Punk. Then Punk says that it took 2 guys to save Vince from him. He mentions that Vince backed him into a corner by having to decide who he will defend his title against. Then he says he wants to show everyone the hell in a cell poster. They show it on the Tron. Punk says this is how he’s treated. Then he talks about his decisions. He says Ryback is a monster of a man. Then there’s Cena, who he has broken physically and mentally. Punk asks who does he pick to face. Who will help build his legacy? Will it be the 1 armed man or the next big thing? Then he says that he will unveil to us who he will face. Punk asks for some respect while he unveils his opponent. He says that since the fans chose to be disrespectful he needs more time to think about it. He tells the fans to have more patience with him. Cue no chance and Vince comes out. Vince says he was hoping that Punk learned something about respect last week. Then he says that Punk blew it. Punk won’t make the decision. Vince will. Vince says there will be a contract signing and that’s when Vince will say who Punk will face. Then Vince says that Punk’s fate is in his hands and he tells Punk to respect that. This was a good segment. Punk cut a great promo as usual. I liked when he mentioned that Vince always wants the show to be about Vince was a good line. I’m predicting that that they’ll have Punk face both Cena & Ryback.

Brodus Clay vs. Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio wins by submission. This wasn’t much. Del Rio dominated here.

CM Punk & Paul Heyman are in the locker room. Punk asks who does Vince think he is to decide who Punk will face. Heyman says this is what he warned Punk about. Heyman says this is Vince and they might win the battle but they can’t win the war. Punk says that if anyone can beat Vince, he can. Then he says that he wants to fight Vince again. He says that if Vince is going to decide who Punk faces he will have to fight him. Punk tells Heyman to tell Vince. Heyman gets freaked out and reluctantly goes. This was a decent bit. Heyman’s been really good playing the freaked out guy who knows he’s in a losing battle.

Zack Ryder & Santino Marella vs. The Primetime Players. The Primetime Players win when Titus pins Ryder. This was mostly a squash. Afterwards Heath Skater, Drew McIntyre & Jinder Mahal come out in new gear. They chuck Ryder out of the ring. Then they stomp on Santino. McIntyre says that’s how it’s done. Mahal says they’re going to celebrate. Slater then says that they’re gonna bring music to music city. He calls the trio the 3MBs. This was idiotic. I don’t get why they have these guys beat down Santino every time.

Dolph Ziggler & Vickie Guerrero come out. Vickie says that Dolph has something to say. Dolph says that Ryback is the candidate for a WWE Title match. He asks the fans if they have any idea what he had to go through to earn the MITB contract. He says that he gave it his all every time he was in the ring but that still wasn’t good enough. Then he mentions that he had to beat 7 guys in a brutal ladder match and that was the only way he got a guaranteed title match. He says Ryback is a flash in the pan and will be forgotten in months but Dolph himself will still be there. Then Dolph says he wants to face Punk and beat him for the WWE Title and then cash in MITB and win the World Title too. Then out comes David Otunga. He agrees that Ryback isn’t worthy of a title match but Dolph isn’t either. Otunga says that he should get a title match. Then AJ comes out. She says they all have a right to their opinions, but rather than express them verbally she will let them express their opinions physically against “the man himself.” Cue Feed me More and out comes Ryback. This was stupid.

Ryback vs. Dolph Ziggler & David Otunga. Ryback wins when he pins Otunga Dolph & Vickie headed up the apron and then Ryback hit the marching Samoan drop on Otunga for the win. This was a squash.

Vince is in the office on his phone. Then Heyman comes in. Vince says a swarm of locusts just came in. Heyman says he deserved that. Vince asks how Punk’s doing. Heyman says Punk’s not doing well. Heyman says that last week Vince held his own against Punk. Then he tells Vince that Punk has a challenge for Vince tonight. Heyman says that if Punk wins then Vince might consider the idea that Punk will get to pick his opponent for the PPV. Vince says they’ll have the match. However the match isn’t going to be Vince vs. Punk, it will be Vince vs. Heyman. Heyman then says this isn’t what he had in mind. Vince tells Heyman to get out of his side. Heyman goes. Then Vince says that he loves being him (Yeah I’ve noticed). This was a decent backstage bit.

AJ’s walking backstage and Matt Striker mentions that on Smackdown Kane & Daniel Bryan attacked him. He says that was crazy. Then AJ does that psycho laugh. Then she says that Striker deserves an apology and that he should ask for one. Right after his match with Kane. This made no sense. The AJ character is way beyond old now.

Promo from Cesaro saying that he has elevated the U.S. Title and the entire U.S. Then he says that he doesn’t need the U.S. The U.S. needs him.

Justin Gabriel vs. U.S. Champion Antonio Cesaro. Cesaro gets the pin. This was a decent to solid match.  

Kane vs. Matt Stryker. Before the match starts. Striker gets the mic and says they don’t need to do this. Striker’s not a competitor anymore. He is an announcer. He would be fine with an apology. He asks what Dr. Shelby would tell him. Then he says that the fans want legit competition, not mindless carnage. Then the fans chant mindless carnage. Then Kane & Striker hug it out, Kane turns it into a bear hug and choke slams him for the pin. This was idiotic too. The bell never even rang. Then Kane gets the mic and wants a word with Matt. Kane says it was a great fight and a really competitive match, but in the end, tough loss for Matt. He asks Striker how he feels. Striker of course doesn’t say anything. Kane says he couldn’t have said it better himself. Then he screams that he is the tag team champions. This was hokey.

Time for Miz TV.

Miz welcomes everyone to the most must see talk show in WWE history. He says that last Wednesday his guest had the audacity to challenge him. Then he tells the fans not to welcome, but to feel sorry for Kofi Kingston. Out comes Kofi. They show the clip from Main Event where Kofi gave Miz the Trouble in Paradise. Miz says that Kofi hasn’t put together 3 sentences but he will carry Kofi just like he has with everyone. Kofi then says that it looked like Miz was the guy that had to be carried. Miz says that Kofi’s been there for 5 years and has been in meaningless tag teams and is known for saying boom. Miz tells Kofi he will always be a B player. Kofi is the guy that will put smiles on the fans’ face but he is the guy the fans will remember. Kofi says maybe he does need to add some memorable moments to his career, like when he beats Miz this Wednesday on Main Event for the Intercontinental title. Kofi says that will be must see. Then Kofi thanks Miz for the pep talk. Then he says he might step up his game in a match tonight with Miz. Miz asks the fans if they want to see that. They cheer. Miz does his really bit. He doesn’t back down from a challenge and Kofi’s on. He says that he’s the superstar and Kofi’s the novelty act. He says that the fans don’t care about Kofi. All Kofi will ever be is guy that says boom. Then Kofi goes after Miz. This was ok but I don’t get why they’re having a non title match on Raw, the “flag ship” show and a title match on a show that not everyone gets. Why not have tonight’s match be for the title?

World Champion Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett. Sheamus wins by DQ when Big Show gets involved. Big Show’s music hit and he came out with a steel chair and watched the match from the stage. Sheamus had Barrett in the Texas Clover leaf. Big Show ran to ring side and Sheamus got distracted. Sheamus released the hold and then he got Barrett up on his shoulders but Barrett elbowed out. Then Barrett pushed Sheamus into the ropes and Show yanked down the top rope and that led to the DQ. Afterwards Sheamus gives Barrett a Brogue Kick. Then Show gets in the ring and Sheamus clotheslines him over the top to the floor. This was a good match. I was ok with the Big Show run in and the post match part was decent.

Vince is in the office on his phone. Then John Cena comes in. Vince asks Cena if he got the Dr’s results. Cena says it doesn’t matter. Then he says that everyone told Vince not to get in the ring but he did anyway because that’s where he belongs. Cena says that he’s felt better and has felt worse. Cena then says that he belongs in the ring too and that the choice is Vince’s. Vince says he will take it under consideration.

Layla vs. Divas Champion Eve Torres for the Title. Eve gets the pin. Layla’s foot was on the rope but the referee missed it. This was a solid match but I wasn’t into the finish.

Kane & Daniel Bryan are backstage. Kane says he knows Daniel’s upset. Then he mentions choke slamming Striker. Daniel then mentions that Kane taunted him after he lost to Big Show. Then Daniel says that if Kane thought it was funny that Daniel got choke slammed then Kane should face Big Show next week and see how funny it is. Then Daniel screams that he is the tag team champions. This was a decent Kane-Daniel Bryan bit.

Vince is in the office with Ryback. Vince thanks him for coming to his rescue last week. Then Vince says that everyone’s saying that Ryback is heartless and merciless. They’re also saying that he is unstoppable. Vince wants to know what he has to say. Of course Ryback says feed me more. Vince says he will take that under consideration. Thankfully this was short.

Cody Rhodes & Damien Sandow come to the ring for a match.

Michael Cole announced that Rey Mysterio has the flu this week so the number 1 contender tag title tournament finals will happen next week. That sucks Rey got sick. Hope he’s better soon.

They show Heath Slater, Drew McIntyre & Jinder Mahal walking into some music hall. They get on the stage. Slater gets the mic and says they are music. Drew says they’ll blow the people’s mind. Then Jinder screams in Indian. Then a “security” guy comes in and kicks them out. This was pointless.

Primo & Epico are in the ring and they will face Cody Rhodes & Damien Sandow. Primo & Epico attack before the bell. Cody & Sandow bail and say that there was no bell. Then they get back in the ring and the referee calls for the bell.

Primo & Epico vs. Cody Rhodes & Damien Sandow. Cody & Sandow win when Sandow pins Epico. This was a good match too.

Kofi Kingston vs. Intercontinental Champion The Miz. Kofi gets the pin. This was also a good match. They could’ve had this be for the Intercontinental Title here rather than on Main Event. Nothing against that show but like I mentioned before not everyone gets the network that show is on.

Time for Vince to decide who face CM Punk.

They have the contract table set up in the ring. Vince comes out with the contract. Vince says he has the contract for the WWE title match. Then he brings out CM Punk. Then Vince brings out Ryback. Finally Vince brings out John Cena. Vince tells Punk he’s been thinking about his decision all week because he knew Punk wouldn’t have the grape fruits to decide himself. Punk cuts off Vince and calls him an egomaniac (Boy is he right with that). Punk says that he crippled Vince and knocked a few screws lose. Then Punk signs the contract. Punk says both Cena & Vince are egomaniacs with inferiority complexes. Cena tells Punk enough. Cena says he respects Punk’s achievement as WWE Champion but Punk needs to shut the hell up. Vince says we should get this over with. Cena says he would like nothing than to face Punk for the title. Cena says he looks at Ryback and he might not care about the WWE Title. Just kicking somebody’s ass. He says that Punk should get his ass whipped. Cena says that Punk’s brain will be filled by 3 simple words. Cena then leads the crowd into a feed me more chant. Ryback then signs the contract. Vince says it’s official. Punk will defend the WWE Title against Ryback. Punk gets in Ryback’s face. Then he knocks Punk down and kicks over the table. Then he screams feed me more and then gives Punk the marching Samoan drop. Ryback poses as Punk lays on the canvas to end the show. This was a decent segment. Thankfully it wasn’t as long as I expected it would be. They’re really pushing Ryback. I’m hoping Punk can get a good match out of him.

I thought this week’s show was mediocre overall. The Big Show promo that followed with the Kane-Daniel Bryan-AJ stuff backstage at the start was hokey. The Daniel Bryan-Big Show match wasn’t much either. The closing segment with the contract signing was decent and thankfully a lot shorter than I expected. Let’s hope Punk can get a good match out of Ryback. I still have this feeling that Cena will be in the match too however. Sheamus-Barrett, Primo & Epico-Cody & Sandow and Kofi-Miz were all good matches. Santino& Ryder-Primetime Players was a squash and I wasn’t into the new band gimmick with Heath Slater, Drew McIntyre & Jinder Mahal. The bit where they walked into the concert hall was idiotic too. The Vince segments with Heyman & Cena were solid and the Ryback one was decent too. Layla-Eve was solid but I wasn’t into the finish. The Kane-Daniel Bryan segments (both after Daniel’s match with Big Show & the backstage segment) were decent too. The Otunga-Dolph segment about how they deserve a title match and then having AJ come out and have them both face Ryback was meaningless. The match wasn’t much either. Gabriel-Cesaro was also solid. The Miz TV segment with Kofi was ok too and they set up 2 matches. Tonight’s and the title match on Main Event. AJ having Matt Striker face Kane made no sense. The AJ character is way old! The Kane-Matt Striker segment/match was also pointless. Brodus-Del Rio was a squash too. Del Rio dominated. So much for Brodus’ push. So on the whole I thought this was a hit and miss show this week.

10-12-12 Smackdown results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the October 12, 2012 episode of Smackdown

The show starts with Booker T coming out. He says that in 2 weeks the World Title will be on the line. For the first time ever Big Show will face Sheamus. There’s a question going around, which finisher is more deadly. Sheamus’ or Big Show’s. Booker says that we’ll find out right now. Then Booker brings out Big Show. Then he brings out Sheamus.  Then Booker says that tonight is all about Big Show & Sheamus. He reminds Big Show this isn’t about the PPV and to let their frustrations out on the punching bag. Booker then says that since Show has the most devastating finisher he will let him go first. Show says he’s not bothering with this and mentions all the guys he’s knocked out with the WMD. Then Sheamus says that he will take a crack at it. He kicks the bag and scores 1322. Show then says he’s not doing this because he knows it’s rigged. Sheamus then says everyone wants to find out which finisher is better. Sheamus asks Show if he’s worried that the Brogue Kick is more devastating than the WMD. Then Sheamus says that nothing can be as embarrassing as Show’s 45 second World Title run. Then Show punches the bag and scores 1809. So Show wins the challenge. Show says he will see Sheamus at the PPV and walks to the back. Booker says that Sheamus has his work cut out for him. Sheamus says Show hit a machine that is standing still. Then Tensai comes out and attacks Sheamus from behind. Then Booker gets in Tensai’s face saying that this is his show. This was a hokey way to kick off the show. Sheamus’ character has really been cornier over the past month or so.

Before the next match starts Sheamus & Tensai brawl outside the ring.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Tensai. Sheamus gets the pin. This was a decent match.

Del Rio & Ricardo are in the locker room. Del Rio says he doesn’t care what Orton tweeted on Monday. Orton isn’t showing up. He tells Ricardo that he has nothing to worry about. Then Del Rio tells Ricardo that if he’s worried Orton is there then he can go find him. This was ok but nothing memorable.

Ricardo asks some guys about Orton in Spanish. Then he hears a snake sound and gets all freaked out. Of course it’s Santino with the cobra. Santino says the cobra is 1 of the deadliest snakes but the viper is even more deadly. Santino tells Ricardo that he doesn’t have to worry about the viper’s bite. He has to worry about the viper’s RKO. This was weak.

Heath Slater, Drew McIntyre & Jinder Mahal come to the ring. Slater says that he’s in the house. McIntyre says that what happened on Raw was more than a simple beat down. It was more like beautiful music. Mahal says that as solo acts their careers were out of tune. Now they’ve teamed up to become a super (jobber) group. Slater says they’re a band. Then Slater’s music plays again and they do this really stupid dance. This was lame. McIntyre & Mahal looked dumb.

Zack Ryder & Santino Marella vs. Heath Slater & Jinder Mahal (With Drew McIntyre). Slater & Mahal win when Slater pins Santino. This was a decent match too.

They show a TOUT from Dolph Ziggler challenging Kane for tonight.

Kane vs. Dolph Ziggler. Kane wins by DQ when Dolph hits him with the MITB briefcase. Vickie had the referee distracted and Dolph grabbed the case. Then he hit Kane with it but the referee saw him and called for the DQ. Afterwards Dolph goes to hit Kane with the case again but Kane knocks him down. Then out comes Daniel Bryan. Dolph rolls out of the ring and Daniel says that he saved Kane. Then Matt Striker gets in the ring to interview Kane & Bryan. He asks them about the rumors that Kane is the reason they’re Tag Team Champions. Bryan then gets in the No Lock. Then Kane one ups Daniel by giving Striker a choke slam. Then Kane & Daniel argue again. The match was solid but I wasn’t into the Striker beat down. This bit with Kane & Daniel is really hit and miss.

Ricardo is backstage asking some guys if they’ve seen Randy Orton. They tell Ricardo where he is. Ricardo walks by and hears Orton’s voice behind a door. Ricardo kicks in the door and it’s Hornswoggle playin with a Randy Orton brawlin’ Buddy. Ricardo throws and kicks it around. This was weak too. I’m not sure what they’re doing here with Ricardo looking for Orton and getting freaked out.

Miz is on commentary for the next match.

Before that they reshow the horrendous Larry King-Miz-Kofi segment from Monday.

Kofi Kingston vs. Big Show. Show gets the pin after the WMD. This was a short match. Afterwards Miz gets in the ring and says this is where Kofi should be. Laying flat on his back beaten. He says that Kofi always comes so close but he always comes up short. Then Miz says he will beat Kofi on Main Event because he is The Miz and he is awesome. This was alright.

Ricardo tells Del Rio that he knows Orton is there. Then Ricardo hides behind Del Rio and Daniel Bryan comes by. Daniel asks who they were expecting. Del Rio says that they were expecting a snake, not a goat. Then Daniel says that if he is a goat then he is the greatest of all time and he is the tag team Champions. Del Rio says that Daniel is the tag team champions because of Kane. Daniel then tells Del Rio that they’re talking because Del Rio hasn’t found Orton yet. Then Daniel tells Del Rio that they have a match later tonight and they will find out who the real G.O.A.T. in WWE is. Then Daniel reminds Del Rio & Ricardo that he is the tag team champions.  

Booker T, Teddy Long, Layla & Kaitlyn are in the GM office. Booker says that they have proof of the person that attacked Kaitlyn. They found a blond wig. Long says that Aksana told that the wig was in Eve’s bag. Then Eve comes in and she says that it’s now ok to go through people’s gear. Then Eve says that she found a blond wig in Long’s bag. Eve is curious if Long had the wig on. Then Kaitlyn & Layla complain and Booker tells them to get coffee. They walk out along with Booker. Then Long says that he that he doesn’t know what Eve is trying to or prove but he had nothing to do with this. Then Eve tells Long that she didn’t either. This was dumb. This whole bit with Teddy Long & Eve is so idiotic.  

Sin Cara vs. Damien Sandow (With Cody Rhodes). Cara gets the pin. This was a solid match. Cody got involved and was kicked out of ringside.

Daniel Bryan bumps into Kane backstage. He tells Kane not to come out and rescue him if he looks like he’s in trouble. Kane tells Daniel not to worry because he won’t come out.    

Daniel Bryan vs. Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio wins by submission. This was a good match. Afterwards Del Rio says he heard the talking. He says the social media is messing with the fans. He says Randy Orton will not show up tonight and he will show everyone why. Then they reshow Del Rio attacking Orton from 2 weeks ago. Then they show Orton losing to Big Show on Main Event. Then Del Rio says that Randy Orton is not a viper or an Apex predator because the Apex predator is Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio then says that Orton is a slimy garden snake and doesn’t have the cajones to show his face. He says that Orton made the right decision to hide like a little girl. He says if Orton was there he would give him a piece of his own medicine. Then Del Rio mimics Orton’s mannerisms again. Then Randy Orton comes from under the ring and he goes after Del Rio. Orton throws Del Rio face first into the announce table and then into the ring post. Then into the steel steps. Then Orton takes apart the announce table. He lays Del Rio on there but Del Rio fights back. Orton was going to IE DDT Del Rio but Ricardo jumps on Orton. Orton throws Ricardo on the announce table Then Del Rio bails and Orton gives Ricardo an RKO on the announce table. Orton stands in the ring and stares down Del Rio, who is on the stage to end the show. I was fine with this.

I thought this was a mediocre show overall. I wasn’t really into the opening segment. I liked the Daniel-Del Rio match though and I was ok with the bit with Orton, Del Rio & Ricardo at the end. Sheamus-Tensai was decent. The bit with Booker T, Teddy Long, Eve, Kaitlyn & Layla was weak. Kane-Dolph was solid. The Kane-Daniel Bryan storyline can be good at times but other times it feels old. Cara-Sandow was solid too. Kofi-Big Show was short. Ryder & Santino vs. McIntyre & Jinder was decent too but I’m not into the Slater-McIntyre-Mahal threesome. I wasn’t really into Ricardo worrying about Orton being there either. The segments with Santino & Hornswoggle were lame. So on the whole I thought this was a hit and miss show.

10-11-12 Impact results and thoughts

        Coverage and thoughts on the October 11, 2012 episode of Impact

The show starts with James Storm coming to the ring for his match.

James Storm vs. TNA World Champion Austin Aries. Aries gets the pin. This was a good match. Bobby Roode come out and rammed Storm into the post.

Wes Briscoe is with Kurt Angle asking if he can tag along with him to Phoenix. Angle says he will make it happen. Then AJ Styles comes in and asks if Angle wants to face Aces & 8s or go for the tag titles. Angle says Aces & 8s jumped him AJ says they jumped him too. Then AJ says that he doesn’t need Angle and walks out. Angle says that Daniels & Kazarian are playing him.

Hulk Hogan & Sting come to the ring. Hulk says that they’ve had a bit of a situation since last week. He says that Aces & 8s backed him in a corner and he cut a deal with those guys. He says that Sting will be getting in that ring and Hulk will watch Sting as he fights to keep Aces & 8s out of TNA. Sting says that he’s upset that they have to play by Aces & 8s rules. Sting is also upset that Hulk can’t get in the ring but Bully Ray stepped up. Then Daniels & Kazarian come to the ring. Daniels says they’re days away from BFG. Daniels says that out of everyone in the locker room, Hulk picked the most unworthy guy. Daniels then asks why Hulk didn’t pick everyone’s favorite tag team. Kazarian says they came up with a 3 part solution. 1. They cancel the tag title match at BFG. 2. Tell Ray thanks but no thanks. 3. Have Kurt Angle team with Sting. Then Bully Ray comes to the ring. He says that Angle would’ve been a great choice. But this won’t be a wrestling match, this will be a fight. Ray says if you get into a fight you want the biggest baddest guy. Ray says he doesn’t need of Hulk or Sting’s friend. He needs to have their backs. He says they’re trying to get rid of Aces & 8s. Then Ray says that if he has to earn his trust he will by teaming with Sting to face Daniels & Kazarian tonight. Hulk says it’s on. This was a solid segment.

Hernandez (With Chavo Guerrero, Jr.) vs. AJ Styles (Without Kurt Angle). Hernandez gets the pin. This was a decent match.

Aces & 8s are in the clubhouse. The head guy says he knows what a chess player Hulk is. He says that “Mr. Parks” is just fine. They show a guy giving him some grub. Then the head guy mentions that Bully Ray teaming with Sting was surprising, but not a surprise they can’t overcome. Then the guys asks if Hulk locked them out or if he locked them in. The guy they will see them Sunday. This was a hokey bit. This Aces & 8s angle has gotten old.

Zima Ion comes to the ring. He says he’s living proof that being humble gets you no where in life. He’s broken arms and necks and has ended careers for the X Title. He says it feels bittersweet. That’s because he doesn’t have a match because he took everybody out. Then he says that he’s not just f’n pretty. He’s pretty f’n dangerous. Then RVD comes out and says that what’s dangerous is Ion bragging with RVD around. Then RVD says that he doesn’t have a match at BFG either. He says that he spoke to Hulk and Hulk says that RVD can his opponent. Then he spin kicks Ion. Then RVD says that he will see him in Phoenix. This was good.

Hulk & Sting are in the GM office. Hulk still isn’t convinced about Ray. Then Ray comes in and tells Sting they’re up next. Hulk says that he doesn’t trust Ray. Sting says they gotta get on the same page and they need Hulk’s endorsement. Hulk says he’s giving him 1 chance tonight. Ray says he won’t let him down. This was your typical hokey segment from the Hulkster.

Brooke Hogan & Taryn Terrell are backstage. Brooke wants to make sure Taryn is ready for Sunday. Terrell says she will keep everything fair. Then Tara comes in with some kind of list. Tara says that her Hollywood boyfriend will be at BFG. Brooke says that Tara isn’t Knockouts champion yet and rips up Tara’s list. This was idiotic.

Sing & Bully Ray vs. TNA World Tag Team Champions Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian. Daniels & Kazarian win by DQ when Ray super bombs Daniels through a table. This was a solid match. Sting said to Ray, “Bully get the table.” That was funny.

They have a video package building up the Jeff-Austin Aries match for Bound for Glory. Aries commented on wanting what Jeff has. Jeff says he will become champion.

Jeff Hardy says that he’s been chasing the World Title for over a year and that winning that will be the final step in his redemption. He says that on Sunday he will give himself and his creatures what they deserve.

They recap they Al Snow-Joey Ryan storyline. Al says that he is looking forward to being legally allowed to do whatever he wants to Joey Ryan. Joey Ryan says that he was tricked into singing the contract. Then he says they’ll be in the west coast and that’s where a lot of the 87 % is at.

Samoa Joe is backstage. The camera guy asks him if he has any thoughts going into BFG. Joe says he’s looking to take out Magnus. Magnus comes in and says on Sunday the TV Title will be his. Joe says they should do this tonight. Magnus says that Joe isn’t a champion and he isn’t TV. Magnus says he is TV. Then he says that he is a businessman and wants fans to pay to see him in the ring. Joe asks if cowards are now referred to as businessmen. This was a decent bit. Magnus saying that he wants people to pay to see the match made sense too.

Knockouts Champion Brooke Tessmacher vs. Gail Kim. Tessmacher gets the pin. This was solid too. Afterwards Tara comes in and goes after Tessmacher. She was going for the Widow’s peak but Tessmacher got out of it and gave Tara a face plant.

Bobby Roode says that he was in the main event at BFG. He says he knows what Jeff Hardy’s going through. Then James Storm comes in and says he knows it was Roode that attacked from behind earlier. Roode says he has a match with Jeff Hardy tonight. Then Storm hits Roode and they have words before a brawl starts. Then King Mo comes in and tells Storm to save it for Sunday. This was a good segment but I’m not sure why they have King Mo in there. This feud has been going on for close to a year and they don’t need him in there for the climax.

They show a Sting video package for his TNA Hall of Fame induction. This was good.

Before the main event starts. Roode attacks Jeff. He throws him into the guard rail and punched him a few times. Then Roode throws Jeff in the ring.

Jeff Hardy vs. Bobby Roode. Jeff wins by DQ when Roode hits Jeff in the groin. This was a really good match. Afterwards Roode gets a chair but the referee snatches it out of his hands. Then Jeff gives Roode a Twist of Fate.

Then Austin Aries comes out. He says that what he has to say won’t be what the sheet tells him to say. Then he throws the sheet away. Aries then says that since he’s been in TNA they’ve been telling him who he needs to be but as of right now all that crap is done. Aries then says that he is only jealous of the fact that people cater to Jeff Hardy. Aries says he knows he’s being set up to fail. He’s asked for new theme music but they’re too busy making Jeff Hardy videos. Aries then says that he’s always worked best when it’s him against the world. Then Aries says that he is not a failure but Jeff will see failure when he looks in the mirror and paints his face. Then Jeff says he’s hurting right now and this Sunday he will kick Aries’ cocky ass. Then Aries says that he will let Jeff get 1 more moment with the fans. The fans cheer Jeff and then Aries asks him to go so that Aries can bask in the glory. Then as Jeff is leaving the ring Aries kicks him and then gives him a brain buster. Then Aries gets the mic and says, “Is this what you want?” to the fans to end the show. This was really good. Aries cut a great heel promo.

I thought this was a good show overall. Storm-Aries & Jeff-Roode were both really good matches. I knew that neither match would have a clean finish though. I also liked Austin Aries promo at the end of the show. The guy is a good heel. The Bobby Roode promo that lead to his brawl with Storm backstage was solid too. I wasn’t into King Mo however. The Al Snow-Joey Ryan video package was decent too. I also thought the Samoa Joe-Magnus segment backstage was decent. Magnus’ promo was good. Wanting to have the fans pay to see him wrestle made sense. Tessmacher-Gail was also solid. I liked the Sting & Ray-Daniels & Kazarian match too. I thought Sting telling Ray to get the tables was funny and I enjoyed the match. The Brooke Hogan with Tara segment was idiotic. This whole bit about Tara and her “Hollywood guy” is lame. I wasn’t really into the segment where Hulk & Sting were in the GM office either. Ray was good here but I thought the segment was hokey. I also thought the Aces & 8s promo was hokey too. Thankfully all the weak stuff was kept to a minimum this week. The RVD-Zima Ion promo was good also. Ion is really at playing the arrogant heel. That match should be good. The Hulk-Sting-Ray-Daniels-Kazarian promo in the ring was solid too. Daniels, Kazarian & Ray were all good on the mic. The Hernandez-AJ Styles match was decent and I was ok with the AJ-Kurt Angle segment. I thought they did a decent job of building friction between the 2. I’m predicting they’ll split up as a team at Bound for Glory. I also liked the Sting Hall of Fame video package. On the whole I thought this was a good show this week.

10-8-12 Raw Results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the October 8, 2012 episode of Raw

The show starts with John Cena coming to the ring. He says he missed the fans and that the week off felt like a year. He says it was only a week outside of WWE to realize what’s going on. Then he mentions Daniel Bryan & Kane having anger management issues and. Then he mentions Antonio Cesaro dumping Aksana and does his usual cartoon like promo. He brings Layla & Eve hating each other. He says that Kaitlyn got “Kerriganed”. Then he says that AJ lost her mind but not her charm. He wants to take her on a date. He says that Vince is there. Cena says that he doesn’t have a voice. He says that as loud this place is, the fans cheer. Cena says they’re getting warmed up and he says as loud as this place is, they don’t have a voice. He says that CM Punk stole their voice. He calls Punk the voice of the selfish. He talks about Punk looking for respect for his long title reign. He then says that if Punk is the best in the world it doesn’t matter if no one wants to watch. He says that Cena-Punk in hell in a cell will be a defining moment. Cena says that he will fight with 1 arm because that is what he loves to do. He says that some guys turn their nose up at Punk because he’s not a man. He tells Punk not to be a Punk. He tells him to be a man and face him at hell in a cell. He thanks the fans. Then out comes Ryback. Cena walks up the ramp as Ryback goes to the ring. This was a typical Cena promo. This is version of Cena is part of what’s wrong with WWE! Cena not having a voice? Really? They really need to have Cena cut out the kiddy cartoon promos!! He wants to face Punk in a cell and he still talks like an idiot!!

Then they reshow Ryback coming out during the JR-Punk segment.

Ryback vs. Primo & Epico. Ryback pins both guys for the win. This was a typical Ryback match. Primo & Epico got some offense in but Ryback gave the double marching Samoan drop for the pin. The fans chanted feed me more during and after the match.

Brodus Clay comes to the ring. R-Truth is in the ring. He says that “Little Jimmy” is going through some changes. He says they can fight anytime but tonight “Little Jimmy” wants to dance. Then they play Clay’s music and the commentators say how great a dance “Little Jimmy” is. Then Vince shows up and tells them to dance their way out of the ring because he will make his state of address of the WWE. This was really stupid! This whole “Little Jimmy” bit is way beyond stale now and the Brodus Clay gimmick is awful too. I did pop when they mentioned Flash Funk however. Besides that this segment was crap!

Vince McMahon comes to the ring. He says that we just saw 2 grown men out there with the ladies and an invisible kid. Then he talks about leprechauns, goat faced vegans, masked Luchadors, etc. He says WWE has action (yeah there’s been a lot of that). He says that the fans want to see the best against the best. Then CM Punk & Paul Heyman come out. Vince says that Punk is disrespecting him by coming out during his state of address. Punk says that disrespect is Vince saying what the fans want to see. Punk says Vince never mentioned his name. Then he says that won’t face Cena. Punk says that it’s up to him if he faces Cena or not. Then he mentions how Cena couldn’t get the job done in his home town at Night of Champions but the fans still boo him. Then he says the people in the back and the fans don’t respect him. Then he asks Vince if he respects him. Vince respects the fact that Punk’s been Champion 323 days but not the fact that he’s a Paul Heyman guy. Vince says that he’s not a CM Punk guy. Punk says he knows that. Then he tells Vince that he doesn’t get it. He is the WWE Champion. A year ago he was a spoke on the wheel but now he is the wheel. He says that he’s the only thing WWE has going for him right now. He then says that Vince and everyone should show him the respect that he deserves. He says if he doesn’t start getting the respect he deserves he will quit just like last year only this time he won’t come back. Punk says he’s the reason WWE still exists and he is the best in the world. Then Punk asks if it’s not him then who makes this billion dollar company. Vince says what makes WWE a success is the fans. Vince says that he listens to the fans (yeah whatever) and he says that the fans are saying that Punk needs to shut his mouth. Vince says Punk’s nowhere near Andre the Giant, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, etc. Punk says he’s nothing like Austin. He worked his way to the top and never backed down. He says that Austin got to the top by beating a clueless inept millionaire. Punk says it’s a good thing that happened then because this leader has become more clueless and inept and is now a senior citizen. He then says that it’s a slap n his face when Vince comes out here and treats him the way he does. Then he slaps Vince and Vince falls. Then Punk says that’s a slap in Vince’s face. Vince then says he will fire Punk if he doesn’t face him tonight. Vince says by the end of the night Punk will have learned something about respect. Punk says this is great because he has Vince exactly where he wants him. This was a mixed bag segment. Punk’s promo was good as usual but this whole respect angle is getting old. Also Vince saying that he listens to the fans was total crap!!  Vince, you say you know what we want better than we do? BULL! You don’t have a clue as to what the fans want!! You say we want action? True. Do you give us any? To quote Daniel Bryan, “NO!” You give us a crappy sports entertainment variety show!!

This show has been really terrible so far!

Number 1 contender Tag Team Title tournament – Semi Finals: Rey Mysterio & Sin Cara vs. The Primetime Players. Ray & Cara win when Rey pins Young. This was a solid match and the best part of the show so far.

Punk & Heyman are backstage. Heyman has his doubts about Punk facing Vince. Heyman says that this isn’t a no win situation but a must lose one. Punk says he will annihilate Vince and win. Heyman says if that happens then they will have a crazy obsessive lunatic millionaire trying to figure out how make the rest of their lives miserable. Punk tells Heyman that he has nothing to worry about. This was ok.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Wade Barrett. Sheamus wins by DQ when Tensai comes in. This was a solid match. Just as the match started Big Show’s music hit and he came out. Afterwards Tensai stomps on Sheamus a bit. Then Barrett holds Sheamus. Tensai goes to charge but Sheamus gets free and gives Tensai a Brogue Kick. Then Big Show comes in the ring. Sheamus goes for the Brogue Kick but Show grabbed his leg and then threw him out of the ring. The match was solid but the post match stuff wasn’t much.

Jim Ross walks up the ramp to the back.

AJ is in the GM office. Punk comes in. AJ says that he has a match he should be preparing for. Punk says that since AJ is the GM what she thinks about Punk breaking Vince’s arms and legs. That he will just be doing his job. He says if she’s looking for someone to put a beating on the boss, he’s the guy. Then AJ says that she knows Punk is scared to face Cena but is scared about facing Vince too? Punk says he was trying to help AJ save her job. Then he says that the Board of Directors might look for someone to blame. Then he tells AJ that what happens to Vince will be on her pretty little head. This was idiotic too.

They show an Antonio Cesaro promo from earlier on. He says that as U.S. Champion he wants to get familiar with American Dining. Then he says that no one in Europe talks about chili fries. Then some guy gives him some. Cesaro says that’s disgusting and that only a swine would eat those. This was pointless.

They show a clip of John Cena on Kelly & Mike earlier today.

Tyson Kidd vs. U.S. Champion Antonio Cesaro. Cesaro gets the pin. This was a decent match. Tyson got in some offense before getting hit with the Neutralizer.

WWE Tag Team Champions Kane & Daniel Bryan vs. Dolph Ziggler & Alberto Del Rio. Kane & Daniel win when Kane pins Dolph. The match was solid but they had Dolph lose cleanly again!

JR & Vince are backstage. JR says that last week Vince called him his friend. He tells Vince that he has nothing to gain from the match with Punk. JR mentions what happened to Jerry Lawler when he faced Punk. Vince mentions that JR used to do commentary for Austin’s matches and would always yell Stone Cold, Stone Cold. Vince asks JR if he would call the match and yell McMahon, McMahon. JR says he will give everything he’s got. Vince says he’s impatient and wants JR to do the commentary now. JR says McMahon, McMahon, he wins broke Punk in half and beat him like a government mule. Then JR says that he still thinks Vince shouldn’t have this match. Then Vince quotes The Rock and says it doesn’t matter what JR thinks. This was another idiotic segment!

Time for Larry King. I can’t believe this! He’s there with his wife (who looks like she’s 25 years younger than he is). Then before he can bring out his guest, out comes his guest The Miz. Miz says he can introduce himself. Miz says he’s honored to be interviewed by Larry King and that he might be on Larry’s new show. Then he says that today is the greatest day of all days because today is his birthday. Then he tells Larry that he and the fans should sing happy birthday. Larry says no one cares if it’s his birthday. Then he says he can do things here that he can’t do on his own show. So he is replacing a boring guest with a new one. Kofi Kingston. Kofi says he’s been doing radio interviews. He says that the good word is that Raw is live in Sacramento. Miz says he’s not sure which of them is more irrelevant. Miz then rage on Kofi & Larry. Then he tells Larry to beat it before he divorces his head fro his body. Then Larry’s wife throws water on Miz. Then Kofi throws Miz off the ramp. Kofi rips his shirt off and dives onto Miz from the stage. Then Kofi & Miz brawl to the back as Larry leaves. This was really idiotic, meaningless and painful!! What was the point of having Larry King on the show!?

HELP ME! SOMEBODY! ANYBODY!! HELP ME!!! THIS SHOW IS MAKING ME BAT S**T CRAZY!!!!

Number 1 contender Tag Team Title tournament – Semi Finals: Santino Marella & Zack Ryder vs. Damien Sandow & Cody Rhodes. Cody & Sandow win when Cody pins Santino. This was a decent match. Afterward Drew McIntyre, Jinder Mahal & Heath Slater come out and they beat on Santino.

So the finals of this tournament will be Rey Mysterio & Sin Cara vs. Damien Sandow & Cody Rhodes and that will happen next Monday.

Vince is in the office and Heyman comes in. Heyman apologizes for Punk’s actions. He asks Vince to be the peacemaker between him and Punk. Vince then asks Heyman if he knows the difference between lying and telling the truth (does Vince?). Then he says that Heyman has been poisoning Punk’s mind for years. Heyman says he’s not here for Punk’s sake; he’s here for Vince’s. Then Heyman tells Vince not to let Punk do to him what Brock Lesnar did to Triple H. This was ok too. Heyman was good here.

Layla is on commentary for the Divas Title match.

Kaitlyn vs. Divas Champion Eve Torres for the Title. Eve wins by submission. This wasn’t much. Afterwards Eve still had Kaitlyn in a leg lock and then Layla comes in and Eve released the hold. Then Layla checked on Kaitlyn and Eve pretended to be concerned too. Layla isn’t buying Eve’s act. Then Layla pushed Eve.

Del Rio & Ricardo are walking backstage. Josh Mathews comes by to show him a tweet about him. Del Rio asks why he should care about a tweet. Josh says because the tweet was sent by Randy Orton. Orton will be on Smackdown. Josh asks Del Rio if he is concerned about this. Del Rio & Ricardo walk off. This was alright.

Larry King & his wife are backstage. Then Daniel Bryan comes by. He says that he has a problem and Larry might be the guy who can help him. He mentions Letterman calling Larry an owl. Daniel then mentions that the fans call him goat face. He asks Larry who he handled it. Daniel says Larry does look like an owl while he’s handsome. Then he hits on Larry’s wife. She says she doesn’t want to have anything to do with a troll. Larry tells him to accept the goat face remarks. Then Kane comes in and says that everyone’s talking about how he’s been carrying Daniel. Then they do their “I am the tag team champions” bit. Larry & his wife walk off. Then Daniel blames Kane for scaring off Larry King. Kane thought it was Skelator. This was idiotic!

Punk & Heyman in the locker room. Heyman tells Punk that Vince doesn’t care if Punk is the best in the world. Vince only cares about making them suffer. Unless Punk gives Vince such a beating that he leaves him helpless and hopeless so he can’t make anymore decisions for the rest of his life. Punk says that he will victimize Vince and Heyman should sit back and enjoy it.

Vince McMahon makes his way to the ring and CM Punk clotheslines him from behind. Then Punk beats on Vince and throws him in the ring. Then Vince gets up and takes down Punk. Then they exchange mounting punches. Then Punk gives Vince a roundhouse kick. Then Punk chucks Vince out of the ring. Then he rams Vince face first into the announce table. Then he rips Michael Cole’s head set off, puts it on and says, “What a maneuver.” That was comical. Then Punk gets Vince up for the GTS but Vince got out of it and sent Punk face first into the steel post. Vince throws Punk over the announce table. Then he gets the mic and says he’s going to teach Punk something about respect. Then Vince keeps hitting Punk in the head with the mic. Then Vince pushes the announce chair into Punk’s gut. Then he throws Punk back in the ring. Then he gets a Singapore cane from under the ring. Before he could hit Punk, Punk gets out of the ring. Then Punk tells Heyman to give him his title. Then Vince hits Heyman. Vince has the belt and cane. Punk tries to get in the ring but Vince swings the cane at him. Then Punk goes under the ring and gets a cane. Then Punk gets in the ring and Vince canes the crap out of Punk. Then Punk does the Ric Flair beg before hitting Vince in the groin. Punk picks up both canes and hits Vince. Then Punk gets Vince set up for the GTS. Cue feed me more and Ryback comes out. Punk goes outside the ring. Then John Cena comes out punches Punk and throws him in the ring. Then Ryback set up Punk for the marching Samoan drop but Punk escaped and hopped over the guardrail. Then Vince gets the mic and hopes that Punk learned something about respect. Then he tells Punk that at hell in a cell Punk will either face Ryback or Cena. He tells Punk to decide who he will face by next week or Vince will pick for him. Vince, Cena & Ryback stand in the ring to end the show. This was terrible. They made Punk look like a coward for weeks! This is the WWE Champion and he’s getting caned by Vince!? Come on that is idiotic! Then having Punk run from Ryback and Cena made Punk look like an even bigger coward! This was crap!

This week’s show was really painful to watch! Almost everything was idiotic! I’m kind of at a loss for words at how awful this show was! I guess all I can say is that IT ALMOST DROVE ME INSANE!! This was a terrible show!! 3 hours is WAY too much. If anyone is disrespecting anybody it’s Vince for constantly booking his product to be so bad because he thinks the fans are idiots! Have more respect for your fans intelligence Vince! There’s a MAJOR reason why ratings have been dropping!!!!!!

10-5-12 Smackdown results and thoughts

   Coverage and thoughts on the October 5, 2012 episode of Smackdown

The show starts with Big Show coming to the ring. He says that in 4 weeks he has a chance to regain the World Title when he faces Sheamus. He says that on Monday Sheamus was joking around showing everyone how confident he is because he thinks he has a plan. Show then says that everyone has a plan till they get punched in the mouth. This is the first time he faces Sheamus 1 on 1 which means that Sheamus hasn’t had the sad misfortune of feeling his skull get caved in by Show’s fist. Then Shoe says that at hell in a cell when he defeats Sheamus and becomes World Champion Sheamus can take comfort in the fact that he is joining a very elite group of victims. Then they play clips of Big Show using the WMD. He says that’s fantastic. Look at that group of victims. The Hall of Famer, the first time undisputed champion, the best in the world, the franchise, the 9 time World Champion. That is a group of people that has 1 thing in common. That being that Show’s fist punched every single one of them right in the mouth. The camera zooms in on Show’s fist as he’s saying, “Look at the size of that.” Then out comes Sheamus. He sarcastically thanks Show for the heads up. Then he says that on Monday he was joking around. Then he says that his match with Show will be the biggest fight of his life. Sheamus then says that he wanted to come out, look Big Show right in the eye and say may the best man win. Then Sheamus offers Show his hand. Show walks up the ramp. Then Sheamus tells Show that he was right when he said that everybody has a plan. Daniel Bryan had a plan at the TLC PPV last year. Then Sheamus says, “Let’s see how that worked out.” Then they show Big Show beating Mark Henry for the World Title followed by Daniel cashing in Money in the Bank. As this is being shown Sheamus talks. He says that after the WMD Show became World Champion. Then 45 seconds later he lost the Title to Daniel. Sheamus says that was rough. Then Sheamus says that Daniel Bryan also had a plan at WrestleMania. “Why don’t see how that one worked out?”  They show the 18 second match from WrestleMania. Then Big Show gets back in the ring and offers Sheamus his hand. Sheamus makes like he’s going to shake Show’s hand but he walks off. This was better than the Raw “debate” but I wasn’t really into this. I don’t get why they’re having Sheamus joke around basically be like Cena. Also Sheamus taunting Big Show about losing the title makes Sheamus looks like the heel to me.

Number 1 Contender Tag Team Title Tournament – First Round: R-Truth & Kofi Kingston vs. The Primetime Players. The Players win when Darren pins Kofi. This was a solid match.

Ryback vs. Primo. Ryback gets the pin. Primo got a bit of offense in but this was mostly a squash.

CM Punk & Paul Heyman are walking backstage. They ask some guy where Dolph’s locker room is. The guy tells them. Then Punk & Heyman head in that direction.

Layla vs. Alicia Fox. Layla gets the pin. This was decent. I’m not sure when Alicia turned heel though. Afterwards Matt Striker gets in the ring to interview Layla. He says that he’s sure that Layla’s ultimate goal is to regain the Divas Title. She says it is. Then she says if Eve would just stop plotting, scheming (she almost said screaming) and attacking people behind their backs for just 1 second she would like to tell Eve that the way Eve won the Divas Title will make it so much better when she loses the belt. I thought this was kind of weak.

Dolph Ziggler & Vickie Guerrero are backstage and the bump into Punk & Heyman. Punk says Dolph should stop avoiding him. Vickie says excuse me. Punk says he wasn’t talking to her. Then he asks Dolph if he needs Vickie’s permission to speak. Dolph asks Punk what his problem is. Punk says that Dolph knows what it is. He mentions that on Monday Dolph left him high and dry because his old lady screwed up. Then Vickie asks who is calling who an old lady. Punk says he’s calling her one. Then Dolph says that Punk & “This worm here” (Heyman) did the same thing to him a few weeks ago on Raw. All of a sudden it happens to Punk and now it’s a problem? Punk says it is a problem because it happened to him and he is the WWE Champion. Then Punk tells Vickie that maybe she should teach Dolph a little something about respect. Vickie says Dolph is doing just fine. Dolph tells Punk to earn respect and mentions that he earned everything he got. More arguing happens and then Booker T walks by. He tells Punk that he appreciates him showing up tonight but he tells Punk not to think that he can just come in and raise hell without repercussions. Booker says they don’t role like that on Smackdown. Then Booker says that Dolph & Punk will settle their issues in the ring tonight. “Now can you dig that?” “Sucka.” This was a solid backstage segment.

Wade Barrett comes to the ring for his match. They show the promo box. Barrett says that since he’s been back on Smackdown he has crushed everybody that the WWE has put against him. He actually amuses himself seeing how much he can make his opponents suffer at the hands of the Barrett Barrage. He holds up his taped hand.

Un named Guy vs. Wade Barrett. Barrett gets the pin. This felt like an old Superstars or Wrestling Challenge squash.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Intercontinental Champion The Miz. Miz wins by DQ when Big Show comes in and gives him the WMD. The match was solid but I wasn’t really into the finish. Sheamus was going for the Brogue Kick then for some reason Big Show’s music played and he came out. I don’t know why they played his music. He got on the apron and punched out Miz and that lead to the DQ. Then Big Show backs up the ramp and asks Sheamus if he will take him seriously now.

David Otunga is in the ring. He says that he has requested some time to come out here and speak to the fans on behalf of the entire WWE locker room. He wants to address a situation that happened last week after Smackdown went off the air. They show Alberto Del Rio stomping and pounding on Randy Orton. Then they show Booker T and referees coming out to get Del Rio off of Orton. Then Otunga says that on behalf of the entire WWE locker room he wants to say thank you to Alberto Del Rio. Then Otunga says that frankly Randy Orton has been a menace to the WWE for the better part of 10 years. Otunga thanks Del Rio because Del Rio had the courage to stand up to Orton. Then Randy Orton’s music hits and out come Alberto Del Rio & Ricardo Rodriguez (No surprise there). Del Rio then does all of Orton’s mannerisms. Walking to the ring slowly, having the snarl on his face and posing on the turnbuckle. That was kind of funny. Then Ricardo gives Del Rio a mic. Del Rio then says, “My name is Randy Orton” the slow way Orton does. Then he says that Randy Orton wouldn’t dare to be in the same building as him because he knows that if he does he will end up on the floor crying like a dieing dog. Then he changes that to like a dieing snake. Del Rio says that he cut off the head of that snake. Then he says that he is the new Apex Predator in the WWE. Then he drops the mic and does Orton’s arm pose. Then out comes Booker T. Booker wants to get this straight. Del Rio took out Orton and Orton is never coming back. Booker says that means Del Rio’s schedule is open. Del Rio has some free time on his hands tonight. Booker says that he can fix that for him because right now he proposes a tag team match. Del Rio & Otunga against these 2 guys right here. Cue Daniel Bryan’s music and he comes out. Then Kane’s pyro goes off and he comes out. Then Kane & Daniel each old up their tag title and bicker.

WWE Tag Team Champions Kane & Daniel Bryan vs. David Otunga & Alberto Del Rio. Kane & Daniel win when Daniel pins Otunga. This was a decent match. Afterwards Daniel gets both belts and says he is the tag team champions. Then Kane snatched 1 of the belts. Then they had their usual, “I am the tag team champions” squabble.

They show Teddy Long & Eve Torres backstage in the GM office. Eve is flipping and Long tells her to cut the act. Long says that Booker T is not here right now (He was just at ringside though). Then Long tells Eve that he did not tell her to suspend Beth Phoenix last week. Eve says that he did tell her to. Long asks what she is talking about. Then Eve says, “No offense but it’s not uncommon for men in their advancing years to get a little forgetful.” Then Long says that he is thinking clearly now and when it comes to Eve he is not the only one who doesn’t trust Eve. Long says that he heard Layla. Eve says that Layla is bitter that Eve beat her for the Divas title. Long says that he can see straight through Eve. He says he can’t prove it but he knows that she had something to do with the attack on Kaitlyn at Night of Champions. Long then says that Booker T is not an experienced GM. She might have Booker fooled but if Long were in charge she would be straight out the door. Then Booker T comes in. He tells Long that Long isn’t in charge. He is. Booker asks Eve if he can talk to Long. Eve walks out. Booker says he’s never seen Long like this before. Booker asks Long if he is jealous of Eve. Long says Booker knows better than that. Long says that he’s a grown man. Booker then tells Long that both he & Eve are great assets to his administration but he will not have them bickering like cats and dogs. “You dig?” Long says that he sees how it is. Then Booker tells him that has some business to take care of. This was a bit weak. I’m getting tired of this whole Teddy Long-Eve bit.

Big Show vs. Tensai. Tensai wins by DQ when Sheamus comes out and gives him a Brogue Kick. This match wasn’t much Big Show was going for the WMD but then Sheamus’ music played and he came out (just like big Show did earlier) and gave Tensai the Brogue Kick causing the DQ. Then Sheamus backed up the ramp all smiles. So both Sheamus & Big Show screwed each other out of a match the same way. I wasn’t really into this.

Time for the Raw Rebound.

WWE Champion CM Punk vs. Dolph Ziggler. Punk gets the pin. This was a good match. Then Punk gets a mic and stands on the announce table. He says that he’s heard it from Bret Hart, Jim Ross and all the fans. He knows what they want. Punk says that he knows what he has to do because he has thought long and hard about it. He says that the fans want to see Punk step into hell in a cell to face Cena. Punk says he knows that what he has to do is correct. To get respect, at hell in a cell Punk steps in the ring with Cena. Punk says at hell in a cell he will not step foot in the ring with Cena. Punk stands on the announce table as Heyman applauds him to end the show. Punk cut a good promo as usual.

I thought this week’s show was ok. I wasn’t really into the Sheamus-Big Show segment that started the show but I thought the Punk-Dolph match at the end was good. I liked Punk’s post match promo too. I’m curious if Cena will be able to go at the PPV. They keep having Punk say that he won’t face him. I’m not sure if that’s because of Cena’s surgery. Sheamus-Miz & Big Show-Tensai had the same finish. Sheamus-Miz was better but I wasn’t into the whole “This guys music plays and costs the guy he’s facing at the PPV the match” bit, and they did that with both guys. I’m also not sure why they’re having Sheamus be like Cena in that everything is a joke! The Teddy Long-Eve/Teddy Long-Booker T segment was weak. I’m not into this whole bit with Long & Eve having friction. Kane & Daniel Bryan vs. Del Rio & Otunga was decent. I thought Del Rio coming out and imitating Orton was kind of funny. Otunga’s promo wasn’t much though. Barrett’s match was pretty much an old Wrestling Challenge squash. They never even said the other guy’s name. The Punk-Heyman-Dolph-Vickie-Booker backstage bit was decent. Layla-Alicia Fox was decent too but I’m not sure when Alicia turned heel. I also thought Layla’s promo was kind of weak. Ryback-Primo was mostly a squash and the Truth & Kofi-Primetime Players match was solid. Overall I thought this was an ok show this week.

10-4-12 Impact results and thoughts

      Coverage and thoughts on the October 4, 2012 episode of Impact

The show starts with Hulk Hogan & Sting in the GM office. Hulk says everything they’ve worked for will go away if Aces & 8s win. Sting he will have his eyes on everyone to find out who is ready to team with him at BFG. Hulk says everyone on the TNA roster wants Aces & 8s done. They both say that they have to find someone with killer instinct tonight. This was a decent segment. Thankfully it was short.

Ken Anderson comes out on the stage. He mentions that Hulk & Sting needed help in taking out Aces & 8s. Then he says Hulk & Sting might want to gather around the monitor for this one. Then he gets in the ring. He will be facing Gunner next.

Ken Anderson vs. Gunner (With Kid Kash). Anderson gets the pin. Afterwards Kash comes in and pounds on Anderson for a bit. Then he waits for Anderson to get up but Anderson gives Kash the Mic Check. This was decent but short. They showed Sting watching backstage.

Backstage Tara is on the phone with her “boo”. She says that she doesn’t know why George & Stacy cancelled. Then Gail Kim comes in and tells her to focus on their match. Then she tells Tara that if she wins the Knockouts Title she better watch her back because Gail will be coming for it next. Gail walks off. Then Tara wonders what A-Rod & Torrie are doing. This was weak. This whole thing with Tara “dating” a “Hollywood guy” is hokey. Gail Kim was good here though.

Knockouts Champion Brooke Tessmacher & ODB vs. Tara & Gail Kim. Tara & Gail win when Tara pins Brooke. This was decent but short too.

Bruce Pritchard & Al Snow are backstage. Pritchard has some paper that Al needs to sign. Then Pritchard tells Al to show the papers to D’Lo too.

They have a video package recapping the Al Snow-Joey Ryan rivalry.

Al Snow comes to the ring. He brings out Joey Ryan. Joey Ryan comes out. AL says several weeks ago he let his emotions overcome his better judgment and he took an action that put TNA in a bad position. As a result he would like to apologize for hitting Joey Ryan. Ryan tells Al to say he’s sorry. Ryan says he knows Al’s an office stooge, but he doesn’t want to hear an apology on behalf of TNA. He wants Al to say that he is sorry. Al says he’s sorry. Ryan says that he manipulated him just like he did the 87%. He says tonight is about him. He tells Al to share with everyone the other agreement their legal council came to. Then AL takes out a TNA contract for Joey Ryan. Ryan tells Al to turn around so he can sign it. Al doesn’t. Ryan says Al doesn’t trust him. Then Al turns around and Joey signs the contract. Then he jabs Al in the back with the pen a couple times Then AL says that Ryan should have read it more closely. He tells Ryan that the contract is only for 1 night. The biggest night of the year, Bound for Glory and he will face Al. Al says he is going to beat Joey’s ass and will see him in Phoenix. This was a solid promo.

Kurt Angle & Sting are backstage. Angle says that he wants to be Sting’s partner and that he doesn’t have a problem being in 2 matches. Sting says he needs to have someone who has their mind and plate clear. He tells Angle he will think about it. Then Bully Ray comes in. He tells Sting that he should be in the World Title match at BFG, but he isn’t because of Aces & 8s. Ray asks Sting what he has to do to make Sting pick him to be his partner. Sting says he needs a Bully and tells Ray to go prove something tonight. This was a solid bit.

Rob Van Dam vs. TV Champion Samoa Joe for the Title. Joe gets the pin. This was a solid match.

AJ Styles is talking to Chavo & Hernandez backstage. He asks if they talked to Sting about being his partner against Aces & 8s. Then Chavo tells AJ not to change the subject because AJ stuck his nose in last week’s match. Then Daniel & Kazarian come by. They say that Angle told Sting that he doesn’t need AJ and can win the tag titles by himself. Then AJ goes to find out what’s happening. There’s more bickering and Chavo tells AJ to bring it. This was all over the place. Daniels & Kazarian were good here but the “everyone talking over each other” bits don’t work for me.

They show Jeff Hardy & Austin Aries backstage. Aries looks to bury the hatchet with Jeff, even if Aries did most of the work in the tag match last week. Then Bully Ray comes in and says he will punch 1 of them in the face later tonight because he has to prove himself. Then Ray says that he will prove himself to Sting by beating Jeff Hardy. Aries tells Ray that beaten Jeff won’t prove anything because he is the World Champion. Ray says he’s already beaten Aries and mentions that Aries couldn’t beat him without the chain. Then Jeff mentions a triple threat match for tonight. Ray is ok with this and he & Jeff walk off. Aries asks what’s up with Jeff. This was ok.

Chavo Guerrero, Jr. vs. Kurt Angle. Chavo gets the pin. This was a solid to good match too. Afterwards Angle & Chavo shove each other. Then Hernandez & AJ get in the ring and all 4 stare each other down. Then Daniels & Kazarian show up on the stage taunting them.

Doug Williams vs. X Division Champion Zima Ion for the Title. Doug wins by reverse decision DQ. Ion won by submission but wouldn’t release the arm breaker after the bell and the referee reversed the decision. This was short too. Then Ion gets the mic. He says he knows that he’s first on Hulk’s & Sting’s list to face Aces & 8s. He says they can take his name off that list. He says that he isn’t going to risk his good looks to fight Aces & 8s. Then he says that he’s not just f’n pretty but he’s also f’n dangerous. Decent promo.

Bruce Pritchard & D’Lo Brown are backstage. They watch a clip from a house show of Matt Morgan kicking a referee. Pritchard asks D’Lo where he was. D’Lo says he’s running a live event. Pritchard says this can’t happen again. D’Lo says that it won’t. This was weak too. I wasn’t a fan of this.

James Storm comes to the ring. He says it’s 10 days away from the biggest PPV of the year and the biggest night of his life. He says that it will be 1 year when the issues with him & Roode started. Storm tells Roode that he’s coming to BFG to show that he’s the better man. Then he says that Hulk doesn’t like having the referees pushed around so he brought in a special enforcer. Then Bobby Roode comes out. Roode says he doesn’t care about King Mo. He says that in 10 days Storm has to get in the ring with him. A man he never beat and a man he’s been jealous of his whole career. Roode then says this has been building for almost a year and that at BFG it will explode. Roode then says this isn’t just match. This will be a fight and Roode won’t stop until he stands over Storm’s bloody carcass knowing that he ended his career. Roode says this will be a bloodbath. Then he says if King Mo thinks he can stop him or contain this then he has another thing coming. Roode says there isn’t anything that King Mo can do to stop him. Roode then says that he is the "It" factor of TNA and that if he could he would say this to his face. Then out comes King Mo. Roode taunts him and King Mo shoves Roode down. Then Roode walks to the back and King Mo gets in the ring. He stares down Storm and Storm raises his hand. Then they a couple beers. This was a good segment. Both Storm & Roode cut good promos. I wasn’t really into King Mo however.

Hulk & Sting in the GM office. Hulk says that he has picked his guy. Then Sting says that he saw something in Ray and he wants to see him in the ring before he decides. Hulk says that he will watch the match too.

They show Aces & 8s throwing water on a tied and gagged Joseph Park. The head guy says everyone in the faction is ready to die for their brotherhood. He asks if Hulk can say the same about the TNA guys. Then he says that he doesn’t have to look very far to see who will volunteer for his team (I think that’s what he said). Then they rip Park’s shirt off. This was lame. It’s really hard to make out what this guy says.

TNA World Champion Austin Aries vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Bully Ray. Rey wins when he pins Jeff. This was a solid to good match too. Afterwards Aries yells at Jeff saying that he had Ray. Then Aries poses on the turnbuckle with belt and the fans boo. Then Jeff poses and the fans cheer.

Hulk Hogan & Sting come to the ring. The fans chant Hogan. Hulk says to say Aces & 8s has been running rough shot is an understatement. He says he can’t help but think how personal this has gotten. Hulk says he will watch but Aces & 8s will have to worry about Sting. Hulk says that all night everyone has the same feeling about Aces & 8s. He brings up Kurt Angle, Samoa Joe & Bully Ray. Hulk says they need somebody that can get the ob done when it needs to be done. They decided that Ken Anderson will team with Sting. Then Hulk tells Anderson to come out. Anderson’s music hits but on the Tron they show Aces & 8s beating him down backstage. Hulk says to get Anderson some help. Anderson lays there unconscious, Then Ray comes in and tells Sting to talk some sense into Hulk. Ray says that if Sting is going to war he will go to war with a warrior. Ray then says that no one is more of a warrior then he is. Ray says that Sting and the roster need him to fight for TNA. He tells Sting to convince Hulk that Ray is the guy to go to war with Sting. Sting is in favor of the idea. Ray says Hulk might not like him but he has to respect him. Then Ray offers Hulk his hand. Hulk accepts. Then Ray shakes Sting’s hand. This ends the show. This was a solid promo to end the show.

I thought this was a decent show overall. There were some solid parts on the show. There were some weak ones too. The Aces & 8s storyline is very predictable. They’ll win at Bound for Glory. Ray will most likely turn on Sting. As far as this show, the first segment with Hulk & Sting was thankfully short. Anderson-Gunner & the Knockouts tag matches were short but decent. RVD-Joe was solid. Doug-Ion was too short to be much of a match. Chavo-Angle and the 3 way main event were solid. The closing segment with Hulk, Sting & Ray in the ring was solid also. I thought Ray was good on the mic as usual. The Aces & 8s bit in their clubhouse was lame. The Storm-Roode segment was really good. Both guys cut great promos. They’ve done a really good job building to this match. I could’ve done without King Mo however. The Aries-Jeff-Ray bit backstage was ok too. I also liked the Al Snow-Joey Ryan segment. So overall I thought this week’s show was alright.

10-1-12 Raw results and thoughts

Coverage and thoughts on the October 1, 2012 episode of Raw

 The show starts with CM Punk & Paul Heyman coming to the ring. Punk mentions Cena attacking him last week with a pipe when his back was turned. He says that that’s the actions of a scared man. Then he says that he was in the back looking for a doctor and he ran into Mick Foley. He says that Foley gave him a disrespectful look. He says Mick is also a coward. Then he mentions kicking Foley and he showed him that he is the WWE Champion. Punk asks Heyman if Foley would have nothing bad to say to Cena, or his friend Dwayne. Heyman says no. Then Punk tells the fans that these are rhetorical questions. Then he asks if Foley would say anything bad about Steve Austin either. Heyman says no. Then he says that the fans are showing him the same disrespect that Foley showed him. Then he says he thought about not facing Cena in the cell. He says that he thought about Foley said to him last week. Then Punk says that Cena-Punk at hell in a cell still won’t happen. Heyman says he & Punk would like to move on to another most relevant piece of business. They reshow Heyman “proposing” to AJ from last Monday. Heyman says he’s sure the fans noticed the same thing that he & Punk noticed. That being that AJ never said no. She did however violate an edict from the board of directors. Then he takes out a memo from the board saying that AJ’s actions were juvenile and she can’t touch anyone again. Heyman then says that AJ must be removed as Raw GM immediately. Heyman then says that he will lead WWE. Since he has GM experience. Then Vickie Guerrero & Dolph Ziggler come out. Vickie says that Dolph almost had his MITB case taken from him because of AJ. Then she says that she has also been the victim of AJ’s actions. They reshow AJ slapping Vickie from 2 months ago. Heyman asks when did this become about her. She says Dolph will be the World Champion. Heyman asks when did this become about Vickie. Vickie then says that she is THE Vickie Guerrero and he client is Dolph Ziggler. She then says that Dolph will be future World Champion. Then Heyman says that when the future catches up to the here and now that Vickie should let him know. Then Heyman tells Vickie to go through the proper channels like he did. Dolph then says that AJ is the sole reason for all the conflict on Raw. Then Dolph says that Heyman & Vickie should be co general managers. Then AJ Lee skips to the ring. She says that the board of directors have placed her on probation. She says she knows she wasn’t supposed to touch anybody but she figured she could make an excuse for Heyman. She says that she’s been given a coach to help her in her development as GM. Daniel Bryan comes to the ring screaming no. He says he came out to apologize because it’s obvious that AJ’s mental issues have been compounded by the fact that he dumped her at WrestleMania. He can’t blame her because he is one hell of a catch. He says that he is handsome, a former World Champion and has a great beard. And now he is the tag team champions. Then he holds up the tag title and screams, “I am the tag team champions”. Then Kane comes to the ring. Kane says that everyone has forgotten to mention a very important fact about AJ Lee. She is a phenomenal kisser. Then he says that everything Daniel said was true except for 1 thing. Kane says that he is the tag team champions. Kane & Daniel shout that to each other. Punk says he is the best in the world. Dolph holds up his MITB case and chaos break out. Then AJ screams for everyone to stop. Then AJ says that this is her show. Probation or not she is still the GM and what she says goes. Then she says that Punk & Dolph will face Kane & Daniel later tonight. Then AJ skips around the ring and up the ramp as everyone in the ring still argue. This was too long. Punk & Heyman cut good promos as usual. Then when Dolph & Vickie came out it was bearable. Having Daniel Bryan be AJ’s executive coach is going to be probably be more of what they gave us with AJ & Daniel but I have a feeling it will be overbooked. The Kane-Daniel Bryan storyline is very hit and miss. Having 1 scream to the other constantly about how that 1 person is the tag team champions is getting old. I thought this segment was really overbooked.

Number 1 Contender WWE Tag Team Title Tournament – First Round. Rey Mysterio & Sin Cara vs. Primo & Epico. Rey & Cara win when Rey pins Primo. The Primetime Players came out in suits and they had steel chairs and sat on the stage to watch the match. This was a good match.

They mention that Sheamus & Big Show will have a debate later tonight. Booker T will be the moderator and the fans can tweet their questions. I have a feeling that is going to really long and painful!!

Brodus Clay vs. U.S. Champion Antonio Cesaro. Cesaro gets the pin. This was a short match. Cesaro lifted up Clay for the Neutralizer. That was impressive.

They show Kaitlyn backstage and AJ shows up with her new coach. Christopher J. Stevenson (I thought Daniel Bryan was her coach). Then she tells Kaitlyn that she will be back in the ring very soon. Then AJ talks about how they were friends and then she started going with Daniel Bryan. AJ then mentions that Kaitlyn warned her with dating him. She hopes Kaitlyn can forgive her. Then AJ laughs like a maniac and says she isn’t sorry at all. Then she skips off. Then Kaitlyn asks the guy who he is. This was awful. The AJ character has really gotten old.

Zack Ryder vs. Intercontinental Champion The Miz. Miz gets the pin. This was a decent match. I knew Miz would win.

Time for the Sheamus-Big Show World Title Debate. Booker comes to the ring. I’m dreading this segment!! Booker says that in 4 weeks the World Champion Sheamus will face Big Show for the first time at hell in a cell. Then Big Show comes to the ring. Then Sheamus. Booker thanks both of them for joining him for this. Then he says the fans have been sending out tweets and TOUTS. Then Booker says that for the opening statement Big Show will go first. Show starts to thank Booker but then he says there’s no reason for it. He says he will beat Sheamus, rip his leg off and become World Champion. Sheamus’ turn. He says who he is and he is the World Champion. He thanks Booker for hosting this debate in Oklahoma. He asks Show not to rip his leg because he will need it to kick his teeth in. Time for Booker to read a tweet. What does each guy find the most challenging about the other? Sheamus says he’s never ducked a fight. He says he’s never faced a stronger more impressive guy then Big Show. Sheamus says that he hopes this match will last more than 45 seconds. Big Show says Sheamus isn’t taking him seriously and that he will take the Title from Sheamus. Next tweet, who has the more dangerous move the WMD or the Brogue Kick? Show says that his WMD has won him many matches and titles. Then he says to ask Cena and Orton. Sheamus says that Daniel Bryan beat Show in 45 seconds and became World Champion. Show breaks his podium. Sheamus says that we need to see a TOUT. He says that he promised his cousin Rey Mysterio Sullivan. They show a TOUT from Sheamus with a Mysterio mask. Booker says this is a serious debate (yeah right). Show says Sheamus isn’t taking this seriously. Then Sheamus asks Show how it feels to lose the World Title to Daniel Bryan in 45 seconds only for Daniel to lose it to him in 18 seconds. They drop their microphones and stare each other down. Then Show takes his jacket off. They continue intently starring at each other and then Big Show walks up the ramp. This was as bad as I thought it would be. This whole “debate” was completely meaningless and idiotic! There was a lot of back and forth non sense talk that’s not even worth remembering. What I want to know is why is Sheamus the new Cena!? His promos have been more and more cartoon like almost every time he speaks! The only thing that I agreed with here is when Big Show said that this “debate” was ridiculous.

Ryback vs. Tensai. Ryback gets the pin. This was mostly a squash. Ryback dominated most of this.

Damien Sandow & Cody Rhodes are backstage. They talk about their team name. Sandow says that they would never let the fans pick a name for their team. Then they bring up the debate. Sandow mentions that Sheamus came to the ring without pants. Then they mention that they will be great tag champions. Unlike Sheamus who is a Neanderthal. This was ok. I like this team. Cody & Sandow work well together.

Beth Phoenix vs. Divas Champion Eve Torres. Eve gets the pin. This was a decent match.

AJ & her coach are walking backstage. They bump into Wade Barrett. Barrett says he is glad that someone is here to show her how to do her job. Then he says that he doesn’t have a match tonight. Then he tells AJ that since she’s on probation he is going to be blunt with her. He says that she’s doing a horrible job as GM and half the time he doesn’t know what she’s thinking. He tells her not to let her personal issues and relationships get in the way of doing her job. Barrett walks off. Then AJ says to her coach, “I think you’re intimidated.” Wade Barrett’s promo was good here. That was the only good thing about this bit.

Santino Marella vs. Heath Slater (with Drew McIntyre & Jinder Mahal). Santino wins by DQ when Jinder & Drew come in. Afterwards they beat down Santino. Slater grabs the “cobra”. Then Drew gives Santino the Future Shock DDT. Then Slater gets the mic. He asks Santino how he likes this. Then Drew & Jinder shove the sock cobra into Santino’s mouth. Then Slater says they has something we all need to hear. Drew takes the mic and says that he is still the chosen one. Jinder says that he is the Maharajah. Then Slater says that he is the one man band. The match was your typical Santino comedy match. The post match promo from the heel trio was ok but nothing great. Last time they beat down Brodus and this week it was Santino. If/when they attack a third guy then we can have that guy team with Brodus & Santino for a 6 man.

World Champion Sheamus vs. Damien Sandow. Sheamus gets the pin. This was a really good match. Cody Rhodes was on commentary. Cody went after Sheamus but Sheamus threw him in the ring. Then he gave Cody & Sandow a double Brogue Kick for and then covered Sandow for the 3 count.

Time for the JR Appreciation segment. Michael Cole is in the ring and he says JR is the most respected commentator in WWE History. He says that when JR calls a match he makes special. For some reason JR comes out from the back. Cole congratulates JR. He says it has to great for him to be in his hometown and calling the action on Raw. Before JR can speak CM Punk & Paul Heyman come out. Punk takes Cole’s mic and tells Cole he doesn’t need it. He tells Cole to take his seat where he belongs. The fans boo and Punk tells the fans to tell them how he really feels. He then says to not give him shoes to fill because he will fill them. Then he says that JR is the best announcer and he respects him. Punk says the fans respect JR but JR doesn’t know the first thing about respect. Punk says he is the best in the world and he deserves respect. He says that the fans twist and turn whatever he says but it was the fans that turned on him. Then he tells JR that he respects him, which is why he will help Punk teach the fans about respect by telling them that Punk is the best in the world. JR says that he’s glad Punk didn’t come out to embarrass him because Punk has been making a jackass of himself every week. Punk says that he showed JR respect and JR didn’t return it. Then Punk asks JR what happens if he disrespects him like he did Foley last week. Who will come to JR’s rescue? Then Punk says “Stone Cold.” Punk says 316 meant Austin got his hands on a guy. Now it’s the number of days he’s been WWE Champion. Punk says 316 belongs to him. Then Punk rags on JR a bit. Then Punk tells JR that he can say this whoever he wants but the point is JR is going to say that Punk is the best in the world. JR says that he’s not going to see it. JR says that he has been blessed to call some of the greatest matches involving the best in the world. He called WrestleMania main events like Bret Hart-Shawn Michaels and Taker-Triple H. JR says that they never asked to be called best in the world. They all earned that. Then JR tells Punk that he should accept Cena’s challenge for hell in a cell. JR says that if he does then he will call punk the best in the world but until then they have nothing to talk about. Punk rips JR’s hat off and stomps on it. Punk says he doesn’t run from fights and that he’s beaten Cena before. He then says that inside this ring men fight. He says he’s never run from anything and he never will. Then he says that JR should run because he is in the ring with him. Punk then tells JR that if he put up his hands and fights he will knock JR into next week and won’t be doing commentary anymore. He then tells JR to fight or leave. JR goes to leave the ring but Punk grabs his arm. Punk says he won’t let JR go back to the announce table and do his job. Then Punk says that JR doesn’t get to do what he loves anymore. He tells JR that he won’t be doing anymore commentary tonight. Then he tells JR to walk up the ramp slowly and in shame. He says that if JR doesn’t he will put him in the dirt. JR walks out and Punk says that JR isn’t a Hall of Famer. He’s a joke. Cue Feed me More and Ryback comes out. Ryback & JR get in the ring. Ryback stares down Punk intently. The fans chant Feed me More. Then Punk leaves the ring and he backs up the ramp while Heyman tells him that he is still the best in the world. Then Punk holds the title over his head and shouts that he is the best in the world. Then Heyman tells Punk that he gets paid to fight. This actually was pretty good. They didn’t really do the usual “give JR the business in his home town” bit like they usually do. Punk’s promo was really good as usual. Then having Ryback come out and stare down Punk was good also. That was a nice follow up from last week. I know some might say that Pun k backing away from Ryback makes Punk look like a typical WWE heel coward but I don’t really see it that way. I think it puts Ryback over more as a credible talent.

WWE Tag Team Champion Kofi Kingston vs. Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio wins by submission. This match was decent but short. Ricardo Rodriguez was on commentary.

AJ is in the GM office with her coach. He tells her to learn how to admit when she’s wrong and not make decisions because of personal issues. Then she says that maybe she should do something special like make him the referee for the main event tag match. Then she says that a coach isn’t worth anything if he wasn’t a player. Then she tells him to get out of her arena. He leaves. Then AJ tells herself that she doesn’t need a coach. This was weak.

Before the next match starts AJ Lee comes out in referee gear. So she made herself the guest referee.

WWE Tag Team Champions Kane & Daniel Bryan vs. WWE Champion CM Punk & Dolph Ziggler. Kane & Daniel win when Kan pins Punk. This was a solid match. At 1 point Daniel had Punk in the No Lock but Punk got his foot on the rope. Heyman pointed it out. Then she motioned for Heyman to get up on the apron. When he does she kicks him out of ringside. Then Vickie got on the apron and slapped AJ. Then AJ kicked her out too. Then Dolph took his Money in the Bank case and left too. So Punk was on his own. Then Kane choke slammed him for the 3 count. After the match Kane & Daniel Bryan do the “I am the tag team champions” bit to end the show.

I thought this week’s was hit and miss overall. The opening segment was long. Punk & Heyman were good on the mic but I felt like the segment was really overbooked. It was pretty much the “everyone who’s had anything to do with AJ out here” segment. The main event tag match was solid. I wasn’t really into AJ being the referee but thankfully they didn’t have her make a bad call. The debate was a total waste. Punk coming out during the JR appreciation segment was good. Punk again cut a really good promo and I liked that they followed up with Ryback. I don’t think they should put the title on Ryback this soon but I thought this was a good follow up from last week. The AJ segments with the coach weren’t that good. The first segment with Kaitlyn was awful. The second one was a bit better because Barrett’s promo was good. The third one in the GM office was meaningless. Sheamus-Sandow was really good. That was the highlight of the show for me. Rey & Sin Cara vs. Primo & Epico was good too. Ryder-Miz was a decent match but I knew Miz was going to win. Brodus-Cesaro was decent too. I was impressed that Cesaro managed to lift Clay up for his finisher. Santino-Slater wasn’t much of a match. This was more about Slater, Mahal & McIntyre being a unit. Kofi-Del Rio was decent too. Ryback-Tensai wasn’t much. Beth-Eve was also decent. So on the whole I thought this week’s show was hit and miss.