The Blame Game!

The most controversial day in the history of professional wrestling has to be November 9, 1997. That was the night of the infamous ‘Montreal Screwjob” that saw Vince McMahon secretly change the predetermined outcome of World Title match between The Heart Break Kid Shawn Michaels and Bret Hitman Hart.

Technically this shouldn’t be considered that controversial, since this was typical in wrestling in the 40’s and 50’s; forcing promoters to put their championships on legit workers so the title could not change hands in such a manner. You ever wonder why Lou Thesz held the NWA strap for over 10 years?

Regardless if it was the most controversial, it definitely was indeed the most publicized and shocking moment in wrestling history. After all these years the question still remains.

Who is to blame?

Let’s break it down. First up.

Eric Bischoff

Why- Well for starters he was probably the most hated person in the industry from 1996 until WCW folded, so when it comes to blaming stuff on people Eric Bischoff is usually at the top of most peoples list. Think about it, if Vince McMahon wasn’t petrified that Bret Hart would show up on WCW Nitro with the World Wrestling Federation Championship over his shoulder, chances are the screwjob would have never been necessary. Eric Bischoff used every dirty trick in the book to get a neck up in the ratings, why wouldn’t he sign WWF’s franchise player…and bring his belt along for the ride.

There is no way to know the truth about EZ E’s intentions during 1997, but from reading both his and Bret Hart’s book…Eric Bischoff had no intention of using the WWF title on WCW television, nor did Bret Hart have any intention of bringing it over. Bischoff explains that he was in the middle of an expensive law suit from the WWF Women’s Championship being shown on Nitro and didn’t want or need anymore legal trouble. Besides it’s pretty convenient for Vince to cry foul on this, when he did the same exact same thing six years earlier with Nature Boy Ric Flair.

Sure Bischoff is sort of to blame, but the obvious person to point the finger at is…

Bret Hitman Hart

Why- It is a known tradition that when leaving ‘town’, or companies in this era of the sport, you job for whoever the company wants to get over and more importantly, you lose the championship. Bret Hart refused to do that thus putting Vince McMahon in a situation that could permanently damage his already crumbling empire. Regardless of Bret Hart’s personal feelings for Shawn Michaels, or the country he happened to be performing in, at the time he was still an employee of the WWF. And as an employee, you do what you’re told. Especially for a company who has done so much for The Hitman.

There is a fatal mistake that Vince McMahon made when trying to keep Bret Hart from jumping ship. He gave Bret Hart creative control in the final couple of weeks of his contract. Why do you think Bret and his lawyers thought of this clause for his contract? For a situation just like the one Bret found himself in during 1997. Under those terms, Bret had the right to do whatever he wanted and more importantly leave how he wanted, so he did. If you don’t want your talent to control the creative aspect of your show….don’t give them creative control. Bret may have been morally wrong, but from a contractual standpoint he was well within his rights.

Compare it to an athlete who has a no trade clause in their contract. Are they wrong for not waiving it even when it would improve their franchise for the future? Well no, if you don't want a player to turn down your trades...don't give them an option!!

So Hart is to blame…well guess who else was!!

Shawn Michaels

Why- Let’s just get straight to the point. I’m a huge Shawn Michaels fan and I rank him as one of the top 3 wrestlers of all time. But from 1996 to 1997, Shawn Michaels was an asshole. Simply put, almost everybody that wasn’t apart of his ‘klique’ despised Shawn Michaels for his childish behavior and attitude. You have all heard the stories of the drug abuse (pills), the temper tantrums, and the cockiness. I have a strong belief that if Vince asked Bret to drop the title to Mankind or The Undertaker, he wouldn’t have cared. Shawn Michaels also refused to lose his World Title against Bret Hart at WrestleMania 13 because he ‘lost his smile’. Why he would be surprised that Bret wouldn’t do the favor for him…is beyond me. If Shawn Michaels acted like a grown man during his prime in WWF, I don’t think the screw job takes place.

Ironically enough, the few times Shawn Michaels was a good employee was during this screwjob fiasco. Shawn Michaels was looking after the WWF and knew Bret Hart leaving with the championship was a potential disaster. Now again if Vince was having this issue with Foley or Undertaker, I don’t think he would have cared as much. But Shawn Michaels, in November of 1997, was looking after his company. He put his own personal health on the line to keep the belt in house. So believe it or not, Shawn Michaels was only listening to his boss. Was it his idea for the screwjob? Yes, but it only benefited his employer.

This leaves us to the blame game finale. Who is MOST to blame for the notorious Montreal Screwjob?

Vincent Kennedy McMahon of course.

Vince McMahon created his own problem. First he gives Bret Hart creative control in a contract that was worth 20 million dollars over 20 years. Big contract huh. Then Vince McMahon, the powerful businessman, the man who created a wrestling kingdom, realized he couldn’t afford such a contract. How he did not realize that at the time of negotiations, I have no idea. Vince McMahon could have avoided the entire situation if he just let Bret Hart walk the first time WCW threw 9 million dollars in the Hitman’s face. This happens all the time, a worker gets a better offer from another job, and he leaves for more money. The currently employer does not hand over a better contract…that he can’t afford. Vince couldn’t afford Bret, so let him go.

Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart did not have a private feud. Everybody in the locker room and everybody in the profession knew of their bad blood. Why Vince continued to pair them up in the storylines was just asking for trouble. If Michael Jordan and Scotty Pippen are fighting at practice, you don’t throw fuel on the fire so they can compete better in the game and try to one up each other. Vince McMahon let things get out of hand between the two for no real good reason. You can argue that it added more drama to the on screen rivalry which created more money…but if you look at the ratings, house show numbers, and ppv buy rates in 96-97...it obviously wasn’t working.

I’ve read both HBK and Hart’s books and I can never once recall Vince sitting both guys down and saying enough is enough. Either you get along or you’re jobbing to Papa Shango for the next two years. You create peace between your two most talented and popular investments. Not sitting back and watching your locker room split in half.

Vince did not trust Bret Hart when he assured him Bischoff has no interest in the WWF Title, and he would never do that to the company. In this whole situation, Bret Hart was the only person who was honest. It was not as if Bret Hart wanted to leave and was going to turn the screws to Vince by taking the belt with him on Nitro. When Flair did it in the early 90’s, it was only because Jim Herd had fired him. There was no heat between Vince and Bret Hart at the time, and there was really no reason to think Bret would pull something off like that. As I stated earlier, he was the only one honest during this time. He didn’t hate WWF and wouldn’t have left the company with the championship. Bret hated Shawn, not WWF.

Besides, are you telling me there were no shows before or after the Survivor Series where Bret couldn’t drop the belt? How about the Raw before, you take a page out of Nitro’s book and actually have a big marquee match. Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels, with Shawn winning the belt. That way you go into Survivor Series with Shawn already the champion, and you have the planned ending with Hunter running in and the Hart Foundation making the save. Bret Hart wins by DQ, he’s still a hero in Canada, and the belt is off your leaving wrestling. Was that so hard?!?!

I personally believe Vince had to do what he ended up doing, but it was only after the circumstances HE created for himself. If he acted as a more professional boss, he wouldn’t of had to screw arguably his greatest performer out of his company.

Review/Monday Night Raw 2/25/08

Can they co-exist as a team?

We open up the show this week with Orton, Triple H and Cena stealing Edge and Christian’s gimmick of the 5 second pose. Actually not a bad idea to get all three guys in the ring without the usual podium debate or promo interruption. Orton gets the last word in with three letters…

R K O

Pretty sweet that the feud is already getting intense and there is still over 30 days until WrestleMania. This match will definitely not lack any build.

Backstage Orton and Mr. Kennedy have a little confrontation over a possible match up between the two after Mania. Smart to plant the seeds for something down the line…but I doubt its happening. I wish Orton would learn from Kennedy and change the tone of his voice with different emotions. It would do wonders!

None Title Match
Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes vs. Carlito and Santino

Decent tag T.V match, although the King/Santino thing overshadowed the actual tag match that has honestly been building for about a month. I was seriously pissed at King for all the Maria shit because I honestly thought he was ignoring the match. I guess he’s not THAT bad. Well yes he is....but anyway.

Hardcore Holly pins Santino with the Alabama Slam- 4:16

Clips of the WrestleMania press conference shows Mayweather throwing cash into the crowd. Well he better share since WWE is giving him $20 MILLION for his WrestleMania match. That motherfucker. I have a feeling WWE released the amount just to add some more media attention, nice work. Milk it!!

Qualifying Money In The Bank Match
None Title
Chris Jericho vs. Jeff Hardy

Kind of dumb to have Y2J qualify against a guy who already has, but the match was very good. As soon as I heard Regal set up the contest I got my DVD recorder ready and I was not disappointed. When was the last time Jeff Hardy had a bad match? Very surprised he lost clean though, while we are reminiscing…when was the last time he’s lost cleanly?! Jericho needed a big win though, and he got it.

Jericho wins with a roll up- 12:35

In an odd twist Vince McMahon, trying to force JBL to apologize after his actions from last week, is told that Hornswoggle is not his son. It’s FINLAY’S son. And JBL will beat a confession out of him. Not sure why they took this turn or whether it was even needed.

Cena stops by Triple H in the locker room and lets him know he should watch his back. I like the way they are booking Cena so far. You don’t have to turn him heel, and you don’t have to make him comedic so he gets a pop. Remember Shawn Michaels last year against Cena at Mania? That’s how Cena should be for the next month or so, just on the edge of heel and face.

Umaga vs. D.H Smith

How do you say squash in Samoan? I guess they needed to get him on T.V?

Umaga wins with Samoan spike- 1:35

Burchill and Katie chat with William Regal in his office. Burchill offers to whore out his sister to Regal…now that’s fantastic. Also at Mania it will be a raw competitor vs. Smackdown. Who cares, they all wrestle on each other brands anyway. Regal picks Umaga, Smackdown better not fucking select Khali or Kane.

Lance Cade vs. Shawn Michaels

HEY Michaels trained Cade! Nice little match between the two, but Michaels can have a nice little match with anybody.

Michaels wins via DQ.

Michaels gives both Cade and Murdoch some sweet chin music. Ric Flair comes down to the ring, thanks him for last week, and challenges him to WrestleMania. NICE. HBK says no, basically insulting Flair in the process. After Flair clearly explains the situation…HBK says it would be his honor.

I like the segment, but I was kind of hoping they would stretch it out maybe another week or two. Have Michaels be indecisive about it, but I guess they wanted to get the match set early which is cool with me. For guys who are upset that Flair won’t be giving a rub to a young talent…there are only a few guys who can still have a classic match with Flair. You don’t want to send Flair off in a stinker against Umaga.

The Rock will be inducting his father and grandfather into the HOF. It will be good to see Rocky on T.V again.

Triple H and John Cena vs. Mr. Kennedy and Randy Orton

MR KENNEDY’S MUSIC SUCKS!!! Whoever made that decision should get an outsiderz edge from Scott Hall while he’s drunk. The match was fun and I’m glad we got some decent time for a main event. Didn’t seem rushed. Another win for Cena.

John Cena and Triple H win with a STFU- 11:01

Triple H fakes a pedigree on Cena when Mr. Kennedy hits a mic check for some revenge. I guess we got next week’s main event. I’m liking Kennedy mixing it up with the big dogs thought, he should keep doing that until Mania.

Not the greatest show, but it was entertaining. AND NO WOMENS MATCH!! YESSS!!!!

Review/Monday Night Raw 2/18/08

Can John Cena reclaim his spot for WrestleMania?

We open up things this week with The Game. Triple H says last year he was hurt, and now he wants his spot back on the Mania card. Randy Orton interrupts explaining that Triple H has ALWAYS been jealous. I’d have to agree…except when it comes to wrestling ability…or drawing ability…or mic skills. Cena comes out to join the fun when William Regal finally interrupts. Tonight it’s Cena vs. Orton, if Cena wins he is in WrestleMania main event in a triple threat.

Not a bad segment, kind of predictable what’s going to happen in the main event…but still a decent way to start things off.

Money In The Bank Qualifying Match
Jeff Hardy vs. Snitsky

Gee I wonder who is winning this one.

Jeff Hardy wins with a Swanton- 10:30

So Jeff Hardy is in the ladder match, thus making the I-C belt useless for another month or so.

Shawn Michaels announces that Ric Flair will be inducted into the HOF this year. Pretty cool he’s the first ever active wrestler to be inducted. I’m not sure how they are going to play off this Michaels/Flair storyline. HBK heel or HBK vs. Flair best man wins. If they go for the heel version, I want them to keep it post Mania.

Paul Burchill vs. Super Crazy

Very quick match where the crowd was deathly silent. Why not get this guy over on ECW or Smackdown first?

Burchill wins with his step move- 1:55

Cool segment between Hunter and Orton in the locker room. Nobody outsmarts The Game! Or he will have you fired…seriously.

Big Show comes out to make an apology to Floyd Mayweather, who comes to the ring with his posse. Big Show then heels it up, taking back his apology and challenging Mayweather to a fight. Mayweather accepts!! Interestingly enough, they booed Show at the PPV, but cheered him on Raw. Gotta love WWE crowds.

I don’t know how they are going to do this and make it look somewhat realistic. If it’s a wrestling match, Big Show would murder him. If it’s a boxing match, Big Show would connect once take his face off. I heard rumors of a tag match…but Rey Rey is on the shelf for a couple of months. My prediction?

Hulk Hogan and Floyd Mayweather vs. The Big Show and Shane McMahon. Think about it, Hulk is lobbying for a spot on Mania against Flair (not going to happen…unless he jobs, then I’m down). Mayweather is already getting a mixed reaction; no way he gets that if Hogan is on his side. Hogan vs. The Big Show could have an Andre/Hogan feel to it. Plus you throw in the media publicity with Hogan and Mayweather teaming…it just might work. Match is going to suck regardless…may as well try and get the most juice out of the media interest.

Money In The Bank Qualifying Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Val Venis

What is this predictable match night? The match wasn’t even that bad as Kennedy is really evolving into quite the technical/psychology performer. But come on…Val Venis? Speaking of Val…what does it say about WWE’s creative team that they can’t find anything for this guy in years. Get some better writers for Christ sakes.

Mr. Kennedy wins with a Mic Check- 2:31

Steel Cage Match
Mr. McMahon vs. Hornswoggle

I LOVED this match/segment. Seriously, I hated this storyline up until this point. JBL and Finlay’s emotions were amazing. JBL will the cold cruel look and Finlay almost in tears as his little buddy gets his ass whooped. A convincing ass whoopin as well, so kudos to Hornswoggle for that especially with JBL’s snug ass.

Now this storyline has some potential because it involves some actual wrestlers. Now we could have Hornswoggle and Finlay vs. JBL and Vince, or just Finlay vs. JBL…which in a No DQ match would be sweet. But this segment was awesome because it touches home for everybody. Seriously, isn’t everybody’s worst fear being helpless while a friend/loved one gets pummeled? And Vince saying sorry at the end was priceless, especially while Finlay is screaming liar the whole time. Powerful segment, especially if you take a step back…he’s still a fucking leprechaun.

Santino announces that Maria will pose for Playboy!!!....if she can beat Beth Phoenix. Oh boy.

Beth Phoenix vs. Maria

Maria wins thanks to Candice Michelle distraction- 1:58

Good timing for Candice to make her return, just enough time to build a match for WrestleMania. She’s ugly with her hair straight though. Just thought I would throw that out there. Santino pretends to be happy that she won her match.

Special Guest Referee: Triple H
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

Not a bad contest, probably just as good as their PPV bought. At least this one had a freakin clean finish. Bastards. Glad they gave this some time though, since they crapped all over the rest of the show's matches.

John Cena wins with a F-U – 14:04

Triple H pedigrees Cena right after the win, and gives Orton one because he’s badass. The only reason I will be into this triple threat match is it will allow the fans to boo Cena without screwing up the match. They can boo Cena, cheer Cena, boo Orton, but chances are they will all be cheering for Triple H. I have a feeling that’s why they made this a triple threat.

VERY predictable show…and what? No Flair? No Umaga? No HBK? No Jericho? Are they already lost on Y2J already? Wow that didn’t take long. Poor Chris, at least he’s making some $$$.

Review: No Way Out 2008

THE CHAMP...IS....randy orton

Just before I get started on the show let me just congratulate my close and personal friend, The Total Package, on his incredible predictions for No Way Out. He predicted every contest correctly and for his reward he is banned from this site. Nobody outshines The Booking…GAWD! NOBODY!!!

ECW World Title Match
C.M Punk vs. Chavo Guererro

This feud was really the first “sports entertainment” world title feud for ECW, and I think it came across rather well. And even better? They both can wrestle! Great choice for an opener as they have decent chemistry in the ring. Very shocked that Chavo got a clean win over Punk.

Chavo wins it with frog splash – 7:25

In the back Rey Mysterio talks some trash when Floyd Mayweather lets the world know he’s a fan of the former World Champion. Sadly enough, Floyd Mayweather seems more comfortable in a promo than 30% of WWE and 50% of TNA.

Smackdown Elimination Chamber
The Undertaker vs. The Great Khali vs. Big Daddy V vs. MVP vs. Finlay vs. Batista

Let me just admit that I thought this match would be a complete cluster fuck. But then I get reminded that Undertaker is the greatest big man of all time, and suddenly we have ourselves a very respectable elimination chamber. That ending reversal into the tombstone was awesome. Undertaker is going to Wrestlemania…duh.

Undertaker wins with a tombstone piledriver - 29.35

Career Match
Mr. Kennedy vs. Ric Flair

This match really impressed me, especially the work of Kennedy. The way he worked on Flair’s leg, along with his heel tactics to keep the crowd on edge was brilliant. He really is one obnoxious bastard. I thought the match was heading towards a classic but it ended Very abruptly. Instead of Kennedy working on the leg, Flair making a comeback, Kennedy taking control again, then Flair getting the win…they had Kennedy work on the leg and Flair win in his comeback. Time constraints are obvious with this entire pay per view, but something tells me if these guys got 15 minutes under the same type of psychology…it would be awesome. Another clean win though…so at least we aren’t getting screw job endings on a PPV.

Ric Flair wins via figure four leg lock- 7:18

Vince taunts Finlay after he seeks medical attention for his sick bump in the elimination chamber (chokeslam on the steel…not fun).

World Title Match
Edge vs. Rey Mysterio

Kudos to Rey Rey for taking a bullet for the team and gutting his way through the match. It was obvious who was winning this match long before Rey busted his bicep, so the decision is no surprise.

Edge wins with a spear – 5:30

The Big Show is back!! I thought they were going to use him to replace Rey, but I guess they had different plans for him. Extremely different plans. After cutting a very face promo, Show goes into heel mode and attacks the injured Rey Mysterio. And who comes in for the save? Floyd Mayweather of course!! Floyd and his posse charge the ring with Big Show getting on his knees and begging him to hit. Mayweather takes Show up on his offer and lights him up with some rapid fire punches. One punch actually connected breaking Big Show’s nose. Remarkable.

Normally I would hate these sort of things, but around WrestleMania I let my guard down. Mayweather will bring a lot of sports media to the show…so more power to him. My guess is Big Show vs. Rey and Floyd, or maybe throw Shane in the mix for a tag match. It could be worse, it could be Pacman.

WWE Title Match
John Cena vs. Randy Orton

I was really disappointed with this match. Just when I was starting to get into it, they give us a stupid ending. It’s not stupid storyline wise…it’s just stupid when people pay to see a WWE Title Match and get Orton slapping the ref as an ending. I understand it, but doesn’t mean I have to like it. This will obviously play out as the weeks progress...but I would have rather seen Cena get blasted with a chair or something.

John Cena wins by DQ at 15:59

Raw Elimination Chamber
Triple H vs. Umaga vs. JBL vs. Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Jeff Hardy

I was hoping they would start off the match with HBK vs. Y2J…which they did. Their Wrestlemania bout is one of my favorites. As for the rest of the match? If you can get just the highlights of the match…it’s really something special. But that’s what this match was…just a spot fest. This should have been a classic and given around 40 minutes with the talent involved…but time constraints limited it to around 25. The final two were good with Jeff Hardy and Triple H, and they did a hell of a job putting on the final few minutes of the match. But it should have been at least 10 minutes longer. At least.

Triple H wins with a pedigree on steel chair – 23:56

Was the show bad? No. But when I saw the card for this Pay Per View I thought it would be something more than the usual filler show before WrestleMania. But I was wrong, it was exactly that. A filler show before WrestleMania.

And instead of WWE surprising us with the potential WrestleMania card, they fall flat... and right into everybodys expectations. No HBK vs. Cena rematch, no Hardy vs. Orton, no Hardy vs. HHH vs. Orton, looks like we are heading towards a triple threat for the main event with Cena. Poor Jeff Hardy.

No Way Out Predictions

Predictions time! To help me out are my loyal readers Bad News C and The Total Package. Here we go!

Mr. Kennedy vs. Ric Flair

Bad News C.

Winner: Tough choice. But I'm picking Flair.

Why- Nature Boy is going to WM 24 for another match in his career on the line angle. But Kennedy is going to give Flair all he can handle and then some at No Way Out.

The Total Package

Winner: Ric Flair

Why: So far, there is talk of having HBK retiring Ric at 'Mania. It will be a very emotionally-charged match where Ric will retire on the grandest stage of them all...Wrestlemania!!! Of course, in WWE, you can never say never!

Also no word on any Tag Team title matches. Vince needs to reenergize these titles. Interest is waning. I have to keep reminding myself who holding the titles. On Raw, it's Cody Rhodes and Hardcore Holly and on Smackdown, John Morrison and The Miz (two ECW guys).

Again Smackdown needs top guys. ECW needs it's own titles not just the World title, but Vince is content with the amount of titles currently available.

Oh there's also the Women's Championship match. I know it's more a filler match, but it makes for good eye-candy though. Puppies!!! I'm sure it'll be Candice Michelle v. Beth Phoenix. Since Candice makes her return on Raw next week, they'll resume their feud right into 'Mania with Candice winning back the belt.

ME

Winner: Ric Flair

Why- It’s time for MR. KENNEDY…TO WALK THAT AISLE. Not sure why WWE just didn’t wait till Mania for this match, but it’s obvious Flair is going to win. I doubt cleanly, so we’ll see what goes down during the match. Their promo was a lot of fun and sadly it’s probably the last time we’ll ever see a confrontation like that between these two vocal goliaths.

C.M Punk vs. Chavo Guererro (ECW World Title)

Bad News C.

Winner: Chavo Guererro

Why- I just don't see Chavo losing the belt just yet. He'll lose it to Punk further down the line just not at No Way Out.

The Total Package

Winner: Chavo

Why: This feud will conclude at 'Mania where Punk will reclaim his title. Perhaps start a feud with Shelton Benjamin, the gold standard. Not much else going on in ECW. It's really a mini-me version of Smackdown.

ME

Winner: C.M Punk

Why- I’m very happy WWE has given Chavo the push, but I think it’s about to end. I think they will find a bigger opponent for Punk at Mania. Possibly a newly heel turned Mick Foley? Hmmmmm.

Smackdown Elimination Chamber

Bad News C.

Winner: Undertaker

Why- Undertaker vs. Edge - WM 24.

The Total Package

Winner: Undertaker

Why: Just look at the other competitors (save for Batista). 'Nuff said. But really Big Daddy V??? Come on now! An ECW guy in a Smackdown match. He's just a filler since Smackdown lacks enough top guys as opposed to Raw. Just like Mark Henry on Raw for no reason whatsoever other than being a jobber for Cena's comeback.

Perhaps Batista will start a feud with MVP for the US title. Think about it. There's been talk about MVP's title reign. A long one at that. Unless they plan to have Matt Hardy ready to comeback to the ring and resume their feud before 'Mania. Too soon to tell. Remember on previous Smackdowns (for those who tune in), MVP was getting in Batista's face recently.

Of course, we'll see Finlay face Mr. Ass, I mean Mr. McMahon at 'Mania to conclude the
Hornswoggle storyline.This just leaves The Great Khali. His fate is unknown. Perhaps locking horns with Big Daddy V to determine the most dominant monster in the ring. I don't know. Throw me a bone here.

ME
Winner: The Undertaker

Why- Could it be Batista? I guess, but as for the others? No Chance In Hell. The Undertaker’s title reign was cut short due to his old body breaking down, he’s due for another run. Besides I’ve been calling Edge vs. Undertaker (undefeated streak vs. undefeated streak) for YEARS. Throw in the World Title? It’s too good to pass up. Taker all the way.


Raw Elimination Chamber

Bad News C.
Winner: Triple H

Why- I alluded to it in my Cena/Orton pick. Refer to that for my reasoning. Plus he's been off Raw TV for a few weeks. That's going to make his win even bigger. Cena vs. HHH - WM 24.

The Total Package
Winner: Triple HHH

Why: I want to see him go for the gold at 'Mania in a Triple Threat match vs. Orton and Cena. It's been a long time coming since The Game had gold around his waist. I wonder if he will turn heel since he's been a babyface for so long. Perhaps turning on HBK at No Way Out since it's every man for himself. This will definitely shake things up!

From this we'll see JBL v. Umaga at 'Mania since his services will no longer be required as seen on Raw. Although it would have been better to see this at No Way Out where Umaga gives JBL the Samoan spike than on Raw. There has been word going around previously of making Umaga a face though.

This leaves Jericho, Hardy and HBK. I would put Jericho and Hardy involved in a Money in the Bank ladder match with Mr. Kennedy, Shelton Benjamin and Rey Mysterio and HBK v. Flair retirement match at 'Mania.

ME
Winner: Triple H

Why- I think the higher ups in WWE got a boner when they heard the reaction John Cena and Triple H got as the final two of the rumble. I know there has been a rumor ever since Hunter’s face turn that he has wanted to work with Orton in the main event…but not for WrestleMania.

On a side note I believe this chamber match is going to be the best ever. With HBK, Hardy, HHH, and Jericho…you can’t go wrong. Throw in great brawlers in JBL and Umaga, this is the main reason I’m ordering the ppv. Has a great chance to steal the show.

Rey Mysterio vs. Edge (World Heavyweight Championship)

Bad News C.
Winner: The hell with it, I'm picking Edge

Why- Like I said before, Undertaker vs. Edge - WM 24. Enough said.

The Total Package
Winner: Edge

Why: Since the Rumble had Vicki interfere with Rey Rey's 619 giving Edge the edge (get it?!?) over him, they're going to end this feud at No Way Out.. This will pave the way to 'Mania where Edge will not only put the title on the line but his winning streak as well against the Dead Man's winning streak. Credit goes to Mike on this one. This will be a dream match for the ages!

ME
Winner: Edge

Why- Easiest match to predict for the night besides Flair and Kennedy. If it wasn’t enough before, now that Rey is possibly seriously hurt there is not a doubt in my mind The Rated ‘R’ Superstar, for the first time ever, will be going into WrestleMania as The World Champ. He deserves it.

John Cena vs. Randy Orton (WWE Championship)
Bad News C.
Winner: I'm taking John Cena in this one.

Why- I got a gut feeling that we're going to have another Cena vs. Triple H showdown at WM 24. I may be wrong but damn it I don't see The Game getting eliminated at the Rumble and not getting another shot at Cena at WM24.

The Total Package
Winner: Orton

Why: This feud must continue into Wrestlemania so as not to feel cheated out of the Royal Rumble outcome. No Way Out is just a warm up for these guys to rekindle their feud since Cena's injury. It gives Cena something to fight for since he never lost the belt in a title match. I foresee a Triple Threat match at 'Mania with these two and The Game....Triple HHH!!!

ME
Winner: John Cena

Why- THE CHAMP….IS….HERE!!!! (Yes you will be reading that again on the very next review if Cena wins). I’m not the biggest Orton fan in the world, but he has done a nice job holding the title while Cena got himself good and healthy. Guess what. He’s good and healthy. Don’t think Orton can hold up a main event at Mania just yet, Cena has, and will once again.


So there you have it. Should be a decent PPV. Come back for The Review of No Way Out!!!

Review/Monday Night Raw 2/11/08

A main event featuring Shawn Michaels and Jeff Hardy? Better yet, they are fighting one on one!! Can’t I just fast forward to the end? I could if I had a damn DVR. Keep clicking those advertisements…and you my friends can make it happen.

Hornswoggle vs. Vince

Well at least we can get it over with early. As expected Finlay comes out to make the save. I guess he’s FIIIIIRRREDDD!!

Hornswoggle wins with the tadpole splash- 5:48

Well that was quick and painless. Moving right along…

Vince backstage tells Regal to get some dismissal papers prepared. Interesting Vince takes them on the road with him.

JBL vs. Chris Jericho

I’m stunned that they gave these guys away on free television, basically guaranteeing that the feud is over. Not that I’m complaining but I thought they had enough juice in the rivalry to get a WrestleMania rematch. Either way probably on par if not better than their ppv match. Clean win for Chris Jericho? I’m impressed. Glad they gave them enough time as well in the ring.

Chris Jericho wins with the code breaker- 13:50

After the match Umaga gives both men the Samoan spike! What was even the point of JBL bringing up he bought Umaga’s services if it only lasted three seconds. But point well taken, this Sunday is every man for himself.

Vince decides firing Finlay is too good for the son of a bitch. Next week? Hornswoggle vs. Vince in a steel cage match. I’m startled that they didn’t put this on No Way Out. Kind of goes along with the name doesn’t it?

Maybe The Big Show will help Hornswoggle from under the ring just like in 1999. Remember? Austin vs. Vince? Same month? February? Cage match? Sure it’s a long shot…but if it happens I’ll look like a booking…GAWD. Imagine Big Show throwing Hornswoggle through the cage like he did Austin? The Austin throw was like a Tom Glavine change up. A Hornswoggle throw would be like Big Unit heat baby.

WWE airs an anti steroid commercial? That’s like Snoop Dogg shooting an anti weed commercial.

The AGE OF INCEST…HAS BEGUN.

Paul Burchill vs. Brian Kendrick

Decent little squash match. Poor Spanky. At least Mr. Kennedy didn’t beat him up this week. Unique move set for Burchill, but we’ll see how well he looks in a real match.

Paul Burchill wins with the roll the dice- 2:55

Mark Henry vs. John Cena

Gee I wonder who is going to win this one.

John Cena wins with STFU- 2:55

Basically a straightforward way for Cena to show he is ready to compete without having him beat somebody significant. Why is Henry on Raw again?

Cena lets Randy Orton know, who is sitting at the announce table, that he is 100%. Randy Orton refuses to make eye contact because he’s terrified of Basic Thuganomics.

I’m actually digging this storyline. If you think about it…John Cena is NEVER the favorite in a World Title Match. He is always booked as the under dog. Frankly, this guy has dominated the WWE Title scene for the last two and a half years…the man is not an underdog and it’s about time he’s booked as what he truly is/was...a dominant wrestler. It’s good storytelling. Randy Orton has never beaten John Cena for the title and he’s scared. Me Likey.

Mr. Kennedy calls out Ric Flair and we have ourselves a verbal confrontation! And I have myself an orgasm. Seriously if you didn’t mark out for this promo your not a wrestling fan and should be slaughtered. Back to the segment, Flair was on his promo game tonight and Mr. Kennedy may be the most obnoxious heel in a long long time. And that’s a good thing. The man does his job very well. And just to prove it! He drop kicks Flair in his wounded knee. Bastard, and he mocks Ric Flairs strut with an injured knee. Tremendous.

Maria vs. Melina

Melina wins the match after Jillian Hall makes out with Santino. Some distraction. - 2:54

Santino gives Maria the ultimate ultimatum. Playboy ….or Santino. Well if Maria chooses playboy, at least Santino has Jillian and her manly face.

The video package of Triple H inside an elimination chamber was a must. Missing the previous two weeks before a pay per view would be suicide for any other wrestler…but with HHH’s name value and history, he’ll be ok. He’s still my favorite to win! But more on that in the NWO Predictions.

Shawn Michaels vs. Jeff Hardy

To say I was looking forward to this match would be a colossal understatement. In fact! I recorded it for my massive custom made wrestling DVD collection. The great thing about Shawn Michaels is he’s been around for so long, yet you can still get excited for his matches against the younger talent. No complaints from me here. The match met my high expectations for these two. On a side note, does it ever alarm anybody else that Jeff Hardy ALWAYS looks exhausted?

Jeff Hardy wins with a Swanton Bomb- 19:50

I’m amazed on two things with this main event. One that they got 20 minutes to wrestle is almost unheard of nowadays. And second…Shawn Michaels lost cleanly on television?!? I can’t remember the last time that has happened and it definitely was needed in this case. If Jeff Hardy loses this match…there is no chance in hell of him winning The Chamber. But with the win? He goes into The Chamber with the most momentum and it really doesn’t affect HBK that match. HBK still has a chance to win this match even with the loss. Hardy is hot now, his crowd reaction hasn’t slowed down, and he needs to keep winning.

We got two pay per view quality matches with JBL-Y2J and the main event, a great promo between Flair and Kennedy…not too shabby. I’ll be buying No Way Out, so I guess job well done?

The Raven Will Quote…Nevermore

"The entire purpose of human existence, is to kindle a light in the darkness of being. We are a nation of hollow stuffed people; bleeding together; heads stuffed with straw. Like wind in an empty street, or rats feet over broken glass in a dark and forgotten cellar. So it is written. So it shall come to pass. [rips contract] Quote the Raven, nevermore."

Earlier in the week Total Nonstop Action confirmed rumors by publicly announcing Scott Levy’s departure from the company. Scott of course is most well known as the character he portrayed in ECW, WCW, WWE, and TNA called Raven. For 15 years Raven displayed creativity both inside the ring and on the microphone that won him the respect of not only fans but his fellow wrestlers.

After reading this news it’s only natural for me to believe that this could possibly be the end of Ravens career. Starting in 1988, Raven is 43 years old now and it’s unlikely he will land a job in the WWE. Possibly in some backstage capacity, but as an in ring performer it wouldn’t shock me to say that he is done wrestling on a national level.

What is the legacy that Raven leaves us with? A gifted entertainer, there is little doubt in my mind that he will go down in history as one of the top promo men. An easy example would be Stone Cold Steve Austin and Mick Foley admitting that listening to Raven cut promos in ECW helped them immensely. That’s Steve Austin and Mick Foley, two legendary promo men, crediting Raven partially with the evolution of their characters and verbal attributes.

"Anguish, fear, and sorrow, are emotions we all feel, but never more strongly than in our adolescence. When just having an acne-rabid skin, can mean a lifetime of loneliness. One's acceptance by others, is a barometer of one's popularity. If one is different, a misfit, maybe unattractive, unathletic, one is in for a lifetime of cruelty and suffering, that will traumatize permanently. You see scars are souvenirs you never loose. The past is never far. You can try to repress it. You can try to hold it back. You can try to deny it. But it will still continue to grow... stronger, and stronger. Like a malignant cancer, that can't be satiated. Each of us manifests our pain in different manners. Whether it's three in the morning in bed... tears in one's eye. Whether it's a need to destroy everything beautiful, or just simply shutting one's self off from society. My father never gave me what I needed, so I understand what it's like to do without. They should understand this. They should give what's needed. I can see this. I can feel their pain. Why can't they understand? Quote the Raven, nevermore."

There will be one thing that Raven will be known for even more than his vocal abilities. And that is his feud with Tommy Dreamer. Let me make something clear. If this feud had the chance to be properly advertised on a national scale, it would be up there with the all time great feuds.

What made the storyline so great? Besides the obvious conflict between the two, I believe it was ‘who’ had the conflict. This wasn’t the superhuman goliaths Hulk Hogan and Andre The Giant. This wasn’t wheeling and dealing larger than life Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat. This wasn’t Stone Cold and The Rock with beer and monster trucks. Raven vs. Tommy Dreamer was the misfit vs. the jock. The outcast vs. the accepted. It was real life and it was something everybody grew up watching.

"For two and half years Tommy Dreamer...we fought an epic battle...of mythic proportions. We had a friendship based on love and a hatred based on friendship. You scarred my face...you battered me unmercifully...and you took my girl. But the one thing that you could never do...was beat me Tommy. You could never beat me...and I always pinned you. Two and a half years Tommy...after I came to ECW to exercise your demons...it was time for you to graduate...so I gave you your victory. For two and a half years Tommy Dreamer...I stayed away from ECW...and with me gone...your life lost it's meaning...your career lost it's purpose and your relationship...with Beulah...lost it's foundation..you've lost your focus Tommy..you lost the girl. Kaiser Souze said "The greatest trick..the devil ever pulled..was convincing the world that he didn't exist". Well Tommy...I exist and I am going to be your own personal demon..because this savior..has already been crucified..for your sins. Quote the Raven..Nevermore!!"

Inside the ring I would have to say Raven’s best years were in WCW. In ECW he was a terrific brawler, in WWE he was misused, but in WCW he really learned to not just brawl, but tell a story inside the ring. His best in ring work was in the prime of his career in the series of matches he had with Chris Benoit and Diamond Dallas Page. Really great stuff to get your hands on if you get a chance.

From a personal standpoint, Raven is on my top 10 list of favorite wrestlers all time. Not the best wrestlers, but personal favorites. One of the coolest moments ever was when Raven walked out of WCW, and a week later he showed up on ECW on TNN to help Tommy Dreamer win the tag team titles from The Dudleys. That’s the image I’ll have of Raven in my head. Arms spread out, hair covering eyes, wearing a leather jacket with the crowd going insane.

"We all commit certain acts in our lives, of an unsavory nature. Some bad. Some worse. Some unspeakable. Sometimes we suffer in silence, sometimes we seek redemption. He's got what he wanted, but in attaining salvation, there is a price that must be paid. One must... give up a bit of one's self. The road; or the end of the road as it is, might not be quite as... not quite what you expect. The glowing light at the end of the tunnel may not be the beacon of righteousness that you envisioned. It may be some horribly disfigured fun house reflection of your own inner dreams. Quote the raven, nevermore."

Review/Monday Night Raw 2/4/08

Tonight we are in Texas which is usually a hot crowd. Just to get me in the mood I watched an old WCCW (World Class Championship Wrestling in Texas if you didn’t know!) match between The Von Erichs and Fabulous Free Birds. Good times.

We start the show off with a contract signing between Randy Orton and John Cena. I was happy with the segment. Usually these things drag on for a bit but Cena showed his determination for the belt by signing right away. Mark Henry comes down to interfere when Randy Orton STRIKES LIKE LIGHTNING hitting the RKO.

Looking back WWE really has done wonders with Orton. They have made him a brutal heel and his RKO is the most over finishing move in the WWE for a heel by far. Also nice touch with him shaving his head…he looks more…(pinky to mouth) evil?

As for Henry coming from Smackdown with NO Explanation, well that just sucks. I have always preached that there is a lot of money to be made with the brand splits actually being separate brands. Where mixing and matching could only be done by trades, treating it like three sports teams. Fans would watch ECW just to see if a Raw/Smackdown guy has been traded and believe it or not, if done correctly, Mark Henry showing up on Raw could actually be a big deal.

Kelly Kelly and Mickie James vs. Beth Phoenix and Victoria

For some reason I decided to watch this match. Besides Kelly the other three ladies are actually properly trained to wrestle. Wasn’t anything special, but it got the point across. Mickie James can beat plenty of women…but not the Glamazon.

In the back William Regal insults Hornswoggle for not joining the greatest club in the history of mankind.

Back in the ring Shawn Michaels comes down for some microphone magic. JR explains that Triple H isn’t here because of a family emergency. For Triple H not to be on Raw it HAS to be serious…so best wishes to him and his family. Funny promo by Michaels when he is interrupted by Chris Jericho! Wow, the ring is oozing with charisma! Jericho stumbled through a promo which kind of disappointed me when Jeff Hardy joins the fun!

If my ears are as good as I think they are, Hardy got a bigger pop than Jericho and almost as loud as HBK in Texas… that’s pretty good no? Hardy explains that Jericho and HBK both main evented WrestleMania, now it’s his turn. Good point, but not a chance in hell. With that JBL comes out and creates some marvelous heel heat. He’s good. JBL explains he has bought services of Umaga. Kind of like Ted Dibiase buying the services of Andre “The Giant” right? While Umaga and JBL figure out their issues Snitsky comes down and says he wants a shot at The Chamber. Not a chance in hell. This ends up in a brawl with William Regal making it official later in the night, six man tag!

This segment was fun with the highlights being Michaels and JBL. With Triple H not at this show and Raw being taped next week, I guess he won’t have much build going into The Chamber.

Mr. Kennedy squash of the week, this time against Super Crazy. Good idea having him beat Super Crazy with a figure four variation to prepare for Flair. But seriously, has this guy been lost in the McMahon shuffle or what? Hopefully they have something nice planned for him at Mania, probably money in the bank…….BANK.

Santino and Carlito vs. London and Kendrick

Very short match, my guess is London isn’t fully healed yet but they wanted him in front of his home town. Another win for Carlito and Santino, and oh my is Maria hot.

Backstage Mr. McMahon is having his ass buffed with ass cream. I’m AMAZED he didn’t have a diva do it. I guess Vinman is losing his touch huh.

Mr. McMahon is in the ring and defends his actions saying Hornswoggle just needs some tough love. He rips into the parents in the crowd saying their kids are spoiled brats. How true, they are up way too late on a school night. All McMahon is doing is disciplining his bastard son. Mr. McMahon could sell me on anything! Out comes Hornswoggle who looks frightened. He should be honored. He’s ungrateful like Bobby Lashley! $250,000 not enough money my ass!

After Mr. McMahon literally yelling at Hornswoggle to kiss his ass Finlay comes down to make the save. If I hear Michael Cole call Finlay ‘the great protector’ one more time I’m going to assassinate him. Finlay tells Hornswoggle a secret, which leads to Hornswoggle biting the ass of Mr. McMahon. They stole that from Foley! More on that in a minute. Mr. McMahon looks humiliated and tells the crowd if they think that’s funny next week it will be Hornswoggle vs. Vince, and if Finlay interferes…he’s fired. Fiiiiirrrreeeddddd. Well there goes my WrestleMania prediction. I knew it was coming though.

As for stealing Foley’s idea, in his latest book ‘The Hardcore Diaries’ (decent read at best) Mick Foley explained his idea on how to get Terry Funk over to today’s fans. Terry was about to join up with Tommy Dreamer against Edge and Foley at the ECW One Night Stand ppv. Foley basically believed that having Funk join the kiss my ass club, but at the last second biting Vince’s ass, would make him a huge baby face. WWE didn’t like the idea of Vince getting involved with Funker (since Vinny was busy with DX), so it was axed. Guess they liked the ass nibbling plan though huh?

Hardcore Holly and Cody Rhodes vs. Trevor Murdoch and Lance Cade

Apparently Murdoch and Cade stole vests from Rick Rude and Sean Ohaire. What were those things? Odd, anyway another short tag team match that has Cody Rhodes win with a DDT. Someone for the love of God get this kid a finisher. After the match Carlito and Santino announce they are the #1 contenders for the tag straps. This has been a nice little storyline for the tag straps. Actually, probably the best storyline since Cade and Murdoch wrestled with class against The Hardyz.

Shawn Michaels, Chris Jericho, and Jeff Hardy vs. Umaga, JBL, and Snitsky

Interestingly enough, both Hardy and Jericho early in their WWE careers were labeled the next HBK. Now they are all teaming together! Isn’t wrestling magnificent. This match was very entertaining and I marked out like a hulkamaniac when all three dove over the top onto their respected opponents. Pretty obvious Snitsky was going to lose the match, but it’s good to see Hardy getting the pin fall. His loss hasn’t spoiled his popularly, so as long as they keep cheering the push will keep pushing onward.

Arm Wrestling Extravaganza- John Cena vs. Mark Henry

Honestly, I know John Cena is a strong man…but Mark Henry in real life would have thrown him through the titan tron. Orton runs in during the manly arm wrestling match but can’t attack Cena again, so Cena decides to hoist up Mark Henry and give him the F-U. That was sweet. The Texas crowd is actually behind Cena which is amazing. Nice way to continue things between Orton and Cena tonight. Remember WWE really can’t afford to screw this feud up…if you think about it these guys will be main eventing for the WWE for the next 10-15 years. Don’t want to move backwards do we!

The main event saved the show from a wrestling standpoint (six man tag main event*) but not from an overall standpoint. Show lacked something really exciting, especially with Jeff Hardy tearing it up over the last month on every Raw. Looks like they are just passing through the motions until No Way Out and hopefully after that, BIG push for Mania.