The Final Circle

Intro

This past Wednesday Night, saw the release of WWE's long awaited debut of. Behind The Curtain. WWE's documentary examaning this years build to Wrestlemania. I sat down to watch it this lunchtime, and if i'm being honest. I'm not sure what to make of it. Let me explain.

The Production

first things first, this documentary is well put together piece, that delved into the solid hardwork that goes into planning a wrestling show, and how fan interest can turn a booking decision, into outright hatred and rage. Actor Tom Rinaldi does a great job as the narrator of this documentary, as he helped guide the viewers through the roughness of the industry, that was being laid bare, for the world to see.

Relevency of the situation

Cast your mind back to January of this year. WWE had a nasty dark cloud hanging over its head, just days before one of their biggest shows on their calendar. The Royal Rumble, after serious allegations came to light about he who won't be named. As the hours went by, fan speculation was a rife, but months before all of this came to fruition, new rumblings were going on. HHH opened as a talking head, he said that by the time october had rolled around, most of the Mania card had penciled in, but on episodes of Smackdown, in the latter part of the year, the road maps were set out, as the main advertisements for what fans could expect from the show of shows. Dwayne The Rock Johnson, showed up on a random episode of Smackdown, after appearing on the Pat Mcafe show, which was coming live from down the street from the Arena in Cleveland, and at a later date. Roman Reigns had a stairdown with Cody, that would set the internet a blaze. HHH brought to light ,the importance that after Mania 39, and in the months leading up to Mania 40, that Cody has a red hot run, he kept his word, because within that time, Cody had beaten Brock Lesnar twice, and became a tag team Champion with the newly departed Bloodline member Jey Uso. This set up Jimmy vs Jey, which ended being a dud, and Cody vs Roman, which very nearly didn't happen.

Raw Day One

As the new year was setting in, the WWE's business plan was ever evolving. On the 23rd of January, the Conneticut Company announced that their Flagship show Monday Night Raw, and most of their tv partnerships when there deals expire, would be heading to the streaming giant Netflix, the news came as a shock to many worldwide as questions were asked, but five months before this happened in early September. Endeavour completed its takeover of WWE, merging them with the UFC to form TKO Ltd, this acted like a perfect concoction, as the business merged with the in ring product. In the same week that the Netflix was announced, the WWE would a study in contrast, as the allegations to do with their former chairman came to light, but before the murkyness came, an electric bolt was sent through fans, when Dwayne The Rock Johnson was named as a board member of TKO, at the start of the month Dwayne showed up on the New Years Day edition of Monday Night Raw, he cut a promo that would give fans a glimpse into what they might be receiving later down the line, whilst a nightmare was soon to become a reality.

Politics and fan rage

On the day of the Royal Rumble, Cody was told by HHH, that the Mania plans had changed. Yes he would go on to win the Rumble, but he won't be in the Mania main event, and the following Smackdown echoed his upset, when he was told to step a side for Dwayne, this caused fan outrage on a global scale, fans rejected The Rock vs Roman Reigns as the Mania 40 main event, The we want Cody# took off after the broadcast had come to an end, and as this was starting to ramp up, other plans were being made, the original partner for Seth Rollins was due to be Cm Punk, but he got injured in the rumble, so Cody was penciled in as the replacement, however, a Las Vegas press conference ended all of this.

Pivert not Pivert

On Thursday the 8th of Febuary, WWE hosted a Wrestlemania press conference, of mighty proportions, as the relevency of family became the vocal point for what was to come. The main event was flip reversed, and the fans were left feeling a bit more appeased, except for me that is. Dwayne unveiled his arm in politicking when HHH was the last to hear about the original plan. Personally I don't buy any of this, because it makes no sense to me, to throwaway two years of storytelling, just because of Dwayne. I felt that this when the propaganda side of the doc started to come into full effect. Yes The Rock vs Roman reigns would have been a big money mover, but it should not have come at the expense of what fans have bought into.

Not Shy

The documentary showed the ups and downs of being a wrestler on the largest  stage. Seth Rollins was battling a knee injury, whilst the prep work was going on in the shadows, this put his involvement in the first night at risk, with him being Cody's tag partner in the tag match, that would end up being a decider for night two, this wasn't just a concern, this was a major worry. Seth would pull through and the match would go ahead as planned, he and cody would go on to lose said match, as Bloodline Rules proved to echoe in a new dawn, Cody won the belt from Roman on night two, as the world watched on, sports entertainment came to a close, as the era of Paul Leveque began. Yes, there are questions going into next years show, but at the minute there only paper dreams.

Overview of the doc

Was this a good one hour spent, yes, but did I buy into all of it, well, no. I think you need to watch this, whilst eating a plate of salt, yes this was a good one hour, but I don't buy the hype, and with the world watching. I just feel that the media hyped something, that wasn't going to happen, just my thoughts.

Aew Dynamite Beach Break Review 4.7.2024

Intro

With the aftermath  of Forbidden Door, echoing over AEW. we're starting to to see the formation of the Wembley Stadium Card, start to take shape, and as a fan who will be attending the show, this is very exciting to see, and with the news coming that over the following month, that Dynamite is going to be more stacked, than a triple decker patrick special sandwich, makes me very excited for the months, and weeks, to come.

Daniel Garcia and Renee Paquette

Daniel Garcia kicked off the broadcast, being interviewed by Renee Paquette, he put over the urgency, and importants of this evening, when enter stage left, came everyones favourite untrustworthy scumbag. MJF. Max said that he wants to be in Daniels corner later on, and. Daniel agreed. In the words of My Chemical Romance. Famous Last Words.

Owen Hart Tournament Semi Final Bryan Danielson vs Pac

I loved this opening match, from the moment  I saw the graphic last week. It had all that I needed for me, watching at 7.30am here in the UK. Their physicality turned from lofi, into octane in a matter of minutes. Both mens styles proved to be an interesting study in contrast, as they pulled hard to deliver an excellent opener. Danielson got the win, after a fantastic roll up exchange, leaving Pac alone in the ring with his thoughts. This. Was. Brilliant.

Mark Briscoe Segment

Ok I've decided that my guy Mark Briscoe should be renamed as god, his promo was excellent, as he declared himself, to be part of Team Aew in the Blood And Guts Match, He then said that Jack Perry doesn't know what pain is. Perry then attacked Mark from behind. Kyle O'reilly, then tried to make the save, but he was given a rainmaker from Kazuchika Okada, for his troubles. The Young Bucks then came out, to survey the damage, that their friends had caused. I liked this segment. Mark Briscoe has the ability to make the saddest person, feel happy, and in Wrestling that's incredibly vital. The Acclaimed also came out.

Toni Storm Segment

Toni Storm, was interviewed by Renee Paquette, and I have to say, this made me laugh. Marieh got to say the Catchphrase. Which made me drop my croissant with laughter, much to the pleasure of my Jack Russell Puppy Jane. Yum Yum, a half eaten croissant.

Kris Statlander vs Willow Nightingale Owen Hart Tournament Semin Final

This. Was. A lofi match that started off in a hot fashion, with both ladies having a catfight on the rampway. I had a lot of fun watching this, their physicality was great, and their chemistry was great. Stokeley, however, acted like a curse, and not a gift for Statlander, he tried to give her a chain reaction. Willow took full advantage of this, and got the win, to advance to the final. This was good. I have no bad words about this.

Britt Baker Return Segment

This. Was. Another solid segment. Past. Pressent, and. Future, and the upsetting severity of her of why she was off from tv. All of this was emotional. Britt spoke from the heart, as she laid everything on the line, her motivation rose from her words, as the fans have supported her on her return. Things turned up a notch when she mentioned Mercedes Mone, taking shots at the double champion. This was when. The Young Bucks welcomed Mercedes to the venue, after she stepped out of her sweet looking ride, she came out, and the pair had a fantastic promo dual, that delved into humiliation, and Mercedes revelency, the detail was great, as the production crew were instructed to start Mercedes set up, Britt Challenged Mercedes to a match at All In, Britt spoke about her own history, becoming a company trailblazer. Both ladies verbally laid into one another, and it was awesome. Mercedes held the belt up in front Britt to end the segment, because there's a price to pay, when you mess with Mone. I loved all of this.

Will Osperay Segment

Will Osperay, told Damn It Don Callis, that he wants to go it alone, and leave the Don Callis Family. Will mate, this guy can't be trusted. I mean their is a reason why I call him. Damn It Don Callis.

Shibata Hook and Samoa vs The Cage Of Agony

This. Was. A bit of a mixbag, the match was fine, but Chris Jericho on commentary was nausiating to the point of no return, Shibata, Joe, and. Hook got the win, but that dastardly Chris Jericho had a plan, he congratulated all three men, by attacking all three men, with the aid of. Big Bill, and, Brian Keith. Hook took the full brunt of this, getting busted open with a knuckle duster, thanks to Jericho, and chokeslammed through a table by Big Bill. He also gave us the best return of the year. The Wizard. Hook took a fireball to the face. Poor Taz.

Jeff Jarrett vs a Mystery Partner Owen Hart Tournament Semi Final

Jeff Jarrett then faced a returning Hangman Adam Page, in his semi final of the Owen Hart tournament. Hangman came out looking a bootleg Snake Pliskin, and he proceeded to batter Jarrett, as he was the one who got the win. his old friends The Young Bucks then welcomed back afterwards, but this was a differant Hangman, he had no pyro, his music was differant, and his attitude has been dialed up to the highest degree. The Bucks asked him, if he would like to on their side for Blood And Guts, but Hangman fired back with viscerile intent, as he told them no, Because he's in the Owen Hart Tournament. Which says to me, he's gunning for Swerve. I liked all of this.

Daniel Garcia vs Will Osperay AEW International Championship

I loved all of this, with Max acting like an overcasting shadow, added drama, to an already great set up. Max, and. Will had a minor stairdown, that teased something extremely tasty.  Max would continue to be a plague on this match, however he didn't ruin thne flow, both Garcia, and. Osperay were delivering on every cylinder, but. Max ended being the master of Garcia's downfall, he gave Daniel that Beatiful Dynamite Gold ring, but after a series of exchanges, Daniel gave it back to Max. Will then took full advantage, and hit him with a hidden blade for the win. Will consoled a visibly upset Garcia. Max came over to console Daniel. Max raised his hand, and just like that, the real Maxwell Jacob was back in the room, like a dodgy hypnotist trick, he kicked Daniel in the family maker, and proceeded to beat the ever loving daylights out of him, he busted him open. Daddy Magic was also made to drip some of the claret stuff, as Daniel was battered, security, and Adam Pearce, I mean Christopher Daniels, came out and tried to stop Max, Will came back down to the ring, and Max scarpered like a coward, running away into the Chicago night. This topped off, what was a sensational episode of weekly tv.

Overview Of AEW Dynamite

What Can I say about this weeks Dynamite, the promo work had a sense of urgency, and the in ring work, went great to excellent, for me this is the best Dynamite of the year, as their July out puttings start to gain momentum, and long may it continue.

This Weeks  Dynamite is a high 9/10.

My Top 5 Takeaways from Aew Forbidden Door

Intro

As the summer starts to go into overdrive, the levels of Pro Wrestling storytelling gears up. The WWE has the impending return of Roman Reigns, whilst Aew has started to spin plates, as. Tony Khan starts to build, what is looking likely to be one hell of a Wembley Stadium outing.

MJF Is Back Now What

With his match against Rush proving to be the start of his return, his match this past sunday left me thinking, in the words of the cast of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, were do we go from here. I think it's safe to say Max will de fine, his match against Hechicero was decent, but this left me wanting more, and with his issues with Will Osperay bubbling in the background. I think this could be something to look forward to.

The Young Bucks Are A Couple Of Teases

As I was watching their match against The Acclaimed, and Hiroshi Tanahashi, I noticed they laid in a potential tease, their kiss stick, that used to involve a certain best bout machine, could this be teasing a match, at a famous UK Stadium. This is typical of The Young Bucks to tease that something is coming. Revolution this past March, when they helped see Sting off into the sunset, they came out to the ring wearing kimonos, which teased the arrival of Kazuchika Okada. I think there is a lot of possitive light, that is going to shine on this promotion, in the wake of Forbidden Door.

The End Isn't Near. It's moving into Semi Retirement

With All In now just a matter of weeks away, it will also mark a corner stone in wrestling history, when one of the industries most loved competitors moving into semi retirement. Bryan Danielson has been a stellar talent, for over 23 years, and even though I know we will see him again in the ring. I just feel that for him, this is the best move. I love Danielson as a talent, but, their comes a time when I have to think to myself. His heart must fall in line with his body.

Orange Cassidy vs Zac Sabre Jnr

I loved this match, now I know its going to be a hot take, but. this is one of my matches of the year. This is one of those matches in which I didn't care who won, because I was just so engrosed in the intricate detail within the match. I could've watched another twenty more minutes of this.

Returns and heartbreaking losses

This past Sunday marked the return of a medical personal to an AEW ring, that sent my fantasy booking brain into overdrive, whilst the loser of the main event, sat in the ring, mourning the loss of a family member, whilst slumping to defeat. over the past few days, some people have said online, that. Will has been buried, and i'm going to be honest. I don't think that this is the case, Yes on this night he tasted defeat, but he did it through choice, and if you look at what has come out about him in the news. I think he's going to have a bright rest of 2024, whilst the Dr will see Mercedes Mone, at a later date.

 

 

Monday Night Raw Review 2.7.2024

Intro

Money In The Bank, has slowly become one of my favourite PLE events on the WWE calendar, and a highlight of my wrestling Summer fandom, the unpredictability of the show itself, has always left me wanting more in some ways. Even though I do think this could be an advert for a returning Roman Reigns, at a later date. This weekend could act as the first act, in The Bloodlines downfall, as Dwaynes ego trip starts to unfold even further, as we head into the autumn, and winter months.

Jey Uso Segmenmt

I loved this, his entrance from the fans merchandise stands, to the phone lit arena, made for an awesome visual, when he got to the ring, he proceeded to go on a one man tour de force, of excitement. He proclaimed that he's going to win. Monyeet In The Bank. Chad Gable comes out, and puts everyone in the Boston Garden on blast, for not being very intelligent, he said that he is the defination of a miracle, because he has come through recent hardships. Chad then started to stoke the fires, leaving to Jey to say, that it's for the best his academy has left him, and that he doesn't want the smoke that comes with The Wyatt Sick. A fight broke out, and then chad became trapped, as. The Wyatt Characters appeared when Chad tried to escape, I loved this. Michael Cole was handed another Videotape.

Xavier Woods vs Karrion Kross

I wasn't a big fan of this. Xavier got the win, and The New Day got Wrecked in the aftermath, by. The Final Testament, this match made me question my life choices.

Finn Balor and Damien Priest

Damien Priest has a problem with the mullet chaser, being in the Judgement Day clubhouse. Finn put him in his place. The mullet chaser then retained her Womens championship against Zelina Vega.

Seth Rollins Segment

Seth's get up that he was wearing, made him look like a kung fu master, his promo here was decent, he stated that he will be champion next week, he put over Bostons sporting achievements, whilst stating he will get his belt back, and if he fails, then he can't face Priest again, whilst he's champion, but if he wins, Priest must leave The Judgement Day. Finn Balor then walked out, and acted like a child, who is unwilling to change, because he's in a bad mood. Everything has changed, including Priest. After he and Seth had a small promo dual. Seth told Balor to shut up, before he rams his teeth down his throat. Priest then came out, he reverbs something that seth said earlier. Seths paranoia kicked in, and a fight broke out to end the segment, in which my new karate sensai got decked.

Dakota Kai vs Zoey Stark vs Ivy Nile MITB Qualifier

Zoey Stark, beat. Ivy Nile, and. Dakota Kai, to advance to the womens Money In The Bank Ladder Match. Thanks to shenanigans from. Fyre and Dawn, and. Kairi Sane.

Wyatt Sick Videotape

I loved this, from the relevency of keeping Brays legacy alive, the arc of being adandoned by the fans, to the split film image, man this was cool.

Rey Mysterio vs Dominik Mysterio

I had a lot of fun watching this at 8.30am. From Zelina Vega getting involved which led to Rey getting the win, the physicality was decent, and The Human  Oven also got put in a very compromising position. Mami isn't happy. Like I always say. Mullets, women love them.

Sami Zayn Segment

I've heard some people say, that this was the best segment on the night, and I have to say. I agreed. Sami came out, and as per usual, he was fired up, as he told fans that he won't let Bron Breakker go through him, because he will beat Bron Breakker. The dig dog then came out, he said that he respects Sami, but on Saturday, he will beat Sami, and become the new Intercontinental Champion. Sami told Bron that he wants him at his best, because if he's as good as he says he is. Bron then speared Sami. what came next was a funny game of cat and mouse, that saw Bron go head first into the steel ring steps, and give Sami another spear, after a failed hallouva kick. I had a great time watching this.

Ilja Dragunov vs Sheamus vs Drew Mcintyre MITB Qualifier

This. Was. A great main event, the fluidity flowed like fine craft beer, the level of violence didn't feel out of place. Drew got the win, and in the aftermath, he cut a promo saying that he will win the Money In The Bank, and cash in on the same evening.

Overview Of Monday Night Raw

In the usual standards of go home shows when it comes to WWE, this was decent, with good, to great moments, and matches, this weeks show was just fine.

This Weeks Monday Night Raw is a solid 8/10.

Smackdown review 30.6.2024

Intro

Madison Square Garden. A historic venue that has hosted some of the biggest sports events, and gigs over the past 60 years. To say that this venue is iconic, would do it a diservice. WWE have been walking the hallowed halls of this venue for over 50 years, and as the years have gone on, the moments get even more special, and emotional.

Bloodline seen showing up

Paul Heyman greated Solo in the car park, with the rest of The Bloodline, and the only question he had was, were is Jakub Phatu, this lead to a graet camera shot walk through, as. Solo, and his crew made their way to the ring, however as they got to the stage, the camera showed another hummer turning up to the worlds famous arena. Kevin Owens. Randy Orton, and cody Rhodes all got out, when they got to the stage, all six men had an Infinity War stairdown, and then it was on, a mass fight throughout the arena. This. Was chaos personified. And I loved all of it. Security tried to stop this but they were noneffective. Cody led a threeway promo, and out came the law, but they couldn't help the other security guards, who all go wrecked. I loved all of this, the presentation of The Bloodline has been excellent recently, and this examplified my point.

Tiffany Stratton vs Candace Lerae vs Jade Cargill MITB Qualifier

Tiffany Stratton, beat. Candace Lerae, and. Jade Cargill. In a shenanigans filled tv match to qualify for the womens MITB match. Indi Hartwell tried to help Lerae, but this backfired, because led to Stratton getting the pin. Hartwell was shown the door, by. Bianca Belair, and Nia Jax, who came out earlier to watch the match, and celebrated with the victor, I thought this was a mess. Naomi would also qualify later on, when she beat. Indi Hartwell, and. Blair Davenport, thanks to Jade cargill. This match followed the same pattern. Bayley had a backstage segment earlier on, which forshadowed Davenports downfall.

Michin The Street Profits and Pretty Deadly segment

Michin wants Nia Jax. The Street Profits want The Bloodline, and. Pretty Deadly want their own musical on broadway, yeah, in the words of Aerosmith, Dream On.

Santos Escobar vs LA Knight vs Logan Paul MITB Qualifier

I had a great time watching this on a Sunday evening, a bit later than normal. This was another fast paced fun ride, from good physicality, to Logan Paul being the ultimate asshole troll, making two NBA players face each other, brass knucks nearly played a part, but this is how LA Knight got the win, by having a roll up exchange with Logan. The two NBA players nearly had a brass knucks, and steel chair fight.

Baron Corbin. Apollo Crews, and Carmelo Hayes Segment

What do you get, when you put. Baron Corbin. Apollo Crews, and. Carmelo Hayes? A laughing riot. I couldn't stop laughing watching this.

Sika Anoi Tribute

WWE then paid tribute to Sika Anoi, one half of the Wild Samoans, and the real life father of Roman Reigns, this was well handled.

Andrade Vingnette

Andrade then gave us a vingnette, complete in spanish. I can't see him winning the mens MITB.

DIY and Austin Theory Segment

DIY tried to get through to Austin Theory, and their right. Grayson waller is just using him. Waller then attacked, both Gargano, and. Ciampa.

The Bloodline Acknowledgement Segment

This. Was. Brilliant. Paul Hey tried to start the proceedings, but he was interrupted by Solo Sikoa, who asked the fans to acknowledgement him, he brings out Jakub Fatu, his presentation was awesome. Tama. Tonga, and. Jakub, all took the pledge, but when it came to Paul, Solo pulled out a hawaian lay, and asked Paul for his answer. Paul told him that he doesn't want him as his Tribal Chief. Solo seethed with anger, and ordered his crew to take Paul out, they beat him down, and put him through a table. Jakub put the lay on Solo, as he looked over the destruction that his crew had caused.

Overview Of WWE Friday Night Smackdown

I liked this weeks show. The action felt pretty standard, the segments made up for it, as the summer heats up. Romans return pop is going to be huge.

This Weeks Smackdown is a solid 8/10.

Sorry guys their won't an Aew Forbidden Door review, this is due to my day job schedule, so instead I will be writing a top 5 take aways list for the show instead.

 

Aew Dynamite Review 26.6.2024

Intro

The Summertime for me as a wrestling fan, is one of my favourite times of year. Shocks. Betrayals, and some All In, great PPV's, and PLE's, and with the added editions of. Forbidden Door, and. All In at Wembley Stabium, as a life long fan of this industry. I feel that, when times like these come a calling, I think that capitisation is important. Last week after Dynamite, Tony khan announced that the go home Dynamite, and. Collision before All In at Wembley Stadium, would be emmulating from Cardiff. I think this is a savvy business move. Yes. This is a good way to get fans to snap up some last minute tickets, but. With Aew's media rights negotiations taking place as we speak. This could a deal maker for fans here in the uk.

Mjf Segment 

The King of Long Island opened up the show this week, but before he could even say a word. Daniel Garcia came out. The pair had a solid promo dual, with Garcia going out of his way to put Max over, by saying nice things about him. Max took on the role of a paid schill, by advertising this Sundays PPV. Max shakes Daniels hand, after he showed him the same respect, by calling him the future foundation of this company, and saying that when they faced each other for the belt, he had earned it. Max went on to offer him a match at All In. Will Osperay came out, and gave Daniel an even bigger offer, next week. Garcia vs Osperay, for all of the gold. Max stood in the background looking like a pissed off child, who's being ignored at his birthday party. Daniel Apologised to Max, and took Will up on his offer. Swerve and Nana watched this, and they were'nt assumed. I loved all of this. The spinning plate booking technique that Tony Khan has made famous, is working perfectly, you have. Swerve and Osperay on one hand, whilst MJF simmers in the background, and with the added bonus Of Daniel Garcia, this makes fantasy booking All In a lot of fun.

Bcc vs Los Inogrenables Japan

I liked all of this. even though it ended in a dq finish. The in ring work was solid, and the matches within the match, were timed perfectly.

Jay White vs Rey Fenix Owen Hart Tournament

Jay white, beat. Rey Fenix, to advance to the next stage of the tournament, this match needed more time.

Young Bucks and The Acclaimed

Ok. I liked what came next, and its aftermath. The Young Bucks said that they are not happy, after losing to The Acclaimed last week, and that after Jack Perry becomes the new TNT Champion on Sunday, they will be putting their wild card into the Owen Hart Tournament. The Acclaimed answered this back with no rap from Max Castor, they want to face The Bucks for the Gold, Both. Max, and. Anthony waste no time in saying what they think of the company's EVP's, this leads to The Elite coming out to a chorus of boos, and. Matt Jackson asking the crowd to have some respect. They challenged them to a Trio's match at forbidden Door, but. Daddyass steeped to one side, and said that he knows someone that can step in, because he has friends in higher places, yes mate we know, your mates with HBK. His friend is non other than. Hiroshi Tanahashi, the arch rival of Kazuchika Okada, Okada went from laughing, to. Ok, what in seconds, and I loved it. Scissor me Bitch indeed. The Elite vs The Acclaimed and Hiroshi Tanahashi, at. Forbidden Door, oh go on then, why not.

The Conglomeration Segment

I have only one thing to about this. Mark Briscoe, and. Kyle O'reilly bouncing off of each other verbally was great, and a real sight to be seen. Calling Zac Sabre Jnr fish and chips, just makes me feel hungry.

6 women Tag Match

Timeless Toni Storm. Marieh May, and. Mina Shirakowa, beat. Saraya. Harley Cameron, and. Anna jay, in a solid tv outing, but in the celebration. Marieh May accidentally had a glass champane bottle smashed over her head, by. Mina.

Mercedes Mone Segment 

Mercedes Mone accidentally mistook Stephanie Vaquer for. John Cena, because she can't see her, but never fear, because Mercedes will see her at Collision.

The Learning Tree Segment

I never thought that I would say this but, this was my segment of the night, from Brian Keith selling his Injuries, all three men calling out. Hook. Samoa Joe, and. Shibata, but Jericho had a trick up his sleeve, a third member. Minoru Suzuki, yeah this turned out to not be the case, because. Suzuki wants to face, one on one, and just like that. Jericho looked like he wanted to s*** himself. Shibata summed up Chris, when he said that he sucked, and a fight broke out to end the segment.

Zac Sabre Jnr vs Kyle O'reilly Owen Hart tournament

Zac Sabre Jnr, beat. Kyle O'reilly in a solid Owen Hart Tournament match. This. Was. My match of the night, as both men put on clinic, of great technical wrestling.

Swerve Strickland and Will Osperay vs The Gates Of Agony

This. Was. A solid showcase of what is to come this weekend, great physicality allowed the story to breathe, as the can they coexist element played out. Osperay got them the win with a hidden Blade. Swerve then attacked Will in the aftermath, when Will held Swerve's belt.

Overview Of Aew Dynamite

I had fun wathing this weeks Dynamite. The action was solid, the promos were decent, and I have to say, i'm now hyped for the PPV this weekend.

this weeks Aew Dynamite is a solid 8/10.

My Top 5 Bret Hart Matches

Intro

As the years have gone by, my fondness for one man has grown deeper, and deeper. Terms like. The best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be, and. The excellence of execution, were thrown around at will back in the nineties, and with good reason, gone were days of taking my vitamins and saying my prayers, because the hope, and spirit, of one man managed to carry a 9 year old Patrick O'malley, to the point of pestering his parents to look at him whilst he was pretending to be his hero, to the point that I wanted to be the kid in that cheesy WWF advert, that was given Bret's shades. So with that said. Sit back, relax, and read my list of my top 5. Bret The Hitman Hart Matches.

5 Bret Hart vs Mr Perfect April 1989

Even though these two have had better matches, I feel that this is a great starting point. Their chemistry here was off the charts. If you were a kid watching this, then you could marvel at both mens characteristics, and if you were an adult at this time, you could lose yourself in two of the best of their era, putting on a physical well worked match. Even it ended in a no contest, you will have a good time watching this.

Bret Hart vs The British Bulldog 17th of December 1995

I think this is my favourite match from these two. Their Summerslam 1992 match is one of the best Intercontinental matches, to have ever graced the squired circle, but given the fact that the new generation was in full swing, this acted as a good advert for athletisism, at a time when the WWF would capitilise on this heavily. The match was class, and for its time, it still holds up. It's also an interesting look into wrestling family dynamics, as this happened when Davey Boy Smith had turned heel, a heel. British Bulldog was something to behold, at a time when the heel was nonexistant in the industry, in my opinion.

Bret Hart vs Sting WCW Mayhem November 1999

WCW in 1999 was a shallow mess of its former self, from bad booking decisions, to hemeraging millions, from bad business makers, sitting in higher up seats, the week to week tv product was suffering bably at this time. He who shall not be named, had regained control of the tv ratings, leaving Ted Turners organisation to think on their feet, and given the fact that at this time in the companies history, most of what put forward failed, except for that odd diamond, this match was just that, and also a reflection on how far down the toilet WCW had fallen. Sting, and. Bret Hart on a PPV in any capacity  makes sense, but on this night, both men looked like they were loving it. Bret got the win. I wished we got to see them wrestle more often.

Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels Wrestlemania 12 Iron Match

This match depends on which side of the fence you sit on. I get that why modern day fans stray from this match, but for my money, this match sells itself. the physicality is a slog to get through, but the the fact these managed to tell a story, that led to professional hatred, is something that I put up there with. Hangman Adam Page, and his saga with The Elite, and anything Bloodline related, as some of the best Pro Wrestling storytelling that I have seen in my lifetime. Two men, and a boyhood dream coming true, does it really get any better than that?

Bret Hart vs StoneCold Steve Austin Wrestlemania 13

With this mania standing out as one of the weakest in the history of the show of shows, it was a match that was wretched from, sheer determination, blood, and fighting spirit, that turned the. Texas Rattlesnake into a global superstar. The Austin era began here, in a star making match. Bret would also turn heel on this night, making a nine year old Patrick O'malley cry, even Brets heel turn wasn't great, he must have felt the preassure of the night. And in my opinion, he showed just why he is. The best there is. The best there was, and. The best there ever will be, because sometimes in life. If you want to be the best, you have to bring up the best. Austin passed out due to the pain of a sharpshooter, as the lantern was starting to have some attitude. Cigarettes will be needed for after this match.

Monday Night Raw Review 25.6.2024

Intro

From the depths of the depraved, to the callous actions of a Scotsman. WWE at the minute is starting to peak my interest again, i'm also loving the second coming of The Bloodline, that has the big Dwayne size asterix hanging over its head, what i'm trying to say is, enjoy, what you enjoy.  

Drew Mcintyre Segment

I liked this for an opening segment. Drew walked in front of the commentary desk, that had The Miz filling in for Pat Mcafe. Drew cut a straight to the point promo, as he slammed the fans for chanting Cm Punks name, after he's screwed him over twice, he said with no remorse, that he hopes Punk is in an uncomfortable state, after what Drew did to him on smackdown, he showed the bracelet that he stole from him, and said that he will keep it, and have it by his side, when he wins the Money In The Bank ladder match, and cashes it in, that same night. Adam Pearce later on told Drew, that he's going to have to earn a place in the match, this went down like a cup of cold sick.

Bron Breakker vs Ludwig Kaiser

I didn't like this. The match ended with a dq finish, when Sheamus got involved. I like sheamus. I just hate dq finishes.

The Judgement Day Segment

The Judgement Day looked they were loving Livs gifts. Except for Priest. Man those Chicken Nuggets do look good though.

Lyra Valkyria vs Shayna Baszler vs Kairi Sane MITB Qualifier

Lyra Valkyria, beat. Shayna Baszler, and. Kairi Sane in a decent tv match, to qualify for the womens Money In The Bank Ladder Match. I thought this was a well paced match, that needed more time.

Liv Morgan Segment

The Mullet lover came out next, and she was given the walk through camera shot, as every mans jaw fell to the flaw. She wasted no time in calling out her pray. The Human Oven, but she was met by Zelina Vega, who was in the mood to shut livs mouth, the pair had a tepid promo dual. The Human Oven came out, and told the mullet lover that he's not interested, and that he didn't like the gifts, he told Zelina, that he just wants to help her, but Zelina was having none of it, and Liv ended up attacking her. Rey Mysterio came out, to protect Zelina, but he ended up getting taken out by his own son, who essentially took the bullet, or in this case mullet, for Liv.

Braun Strowman vs Chad Gable vs Bronson Reed MITB Qualifier

Chad Gable, appeared to be fine as he picked up the win, and advanced to the mens. Money In The Bank Ladder Match, his promo beforehand screamed. I aint dead yet folks, but it was what unfolded afterwards, that captivated me. The lights went out, and Abbey crawled into the ring, Chad scarpered out of fear. Abbey handed Michael cole a gift, that was for Pat mcafe, a videotape was inside, later on in the broadcast, the video was played in full, and this was perfect. Bo sat with Uncle Howdy, in a Mick Foley esc split screen image, they spoke about the reliventcy of loneliness, and loss, after the untimely death of Bray Wyatt last year. Bo's real life brother. This. Was. Pefrect, and a real look into WWE's past creative tricks, with a much needed upgrade.

Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn vs Kayden Karter and Katana Chance

Alba Fyre, and. Isla Dawn, beat the party girls, and were then beaten down by Damage Ctrl. Yeah, I thought this fell a bit flat.

Damien Priest and Seth Rollins Segment

I liked all of this. Priest was out first, he spoke about how he has elevated the Heavyweight Championship, whilst reprosenting Monday Night Raw, he has relished the oppotunity to be champion, but he doesn't want to be anything like Seth. The man who likes to wear coates during summer came out, and instantly called Priest out, for non believibilty, because his actions and words don't mesh together, because he has thrived from interference finishes. Seth then played Priest at his own game, one upping him. If he loses, then he will never challenge for the Championship, whilst Priest is champion, and if he wins, then Priest will have to leave The Judgement Day. Gunther came out to wish them luck, and remind them, that he will face either one of them at Summerslam. Seth's promo video earler on was also great.

Kofi Kingston vs Karrion Kross

Karrion Kross, beat. Kofi Kingston. In a flat tv match, thanks to the rest of The Final Testament attacking Xavier woods.

Finn Balor and Jd Mcdonagh vs Awesome Truth WWE Tag Team Championship

What do you get, when you take. Liv Morgan. Braun Strowman. The Judgement Day, a whole heap of shenanigans, and. R Truth putting his foot in his mouth, well, the answer to that is this? A whole load of fun, and a title change. Finn, and Mcdonagh are our new Tag Team Champions, thanks to our friendly neighbourhood mullet lover. I had fun watching this.

Overview Of Monday Night Raw

I had a lot of fun watching this weeks Raw, yes their were some dud matches in this show, but they didn't hamper my enjoyment of the show.

This Weeks Monday Night Raw is a solid 7/10.

Aew Dynamite Review 20.6.2024

Intro

With Forbidden Door, at the time of writing just 10 days away. The road to Wembley is starting to take shape, with twists and turns, becoming the norm, with other rivalries starting to build beneath the surface, as a Pro Wrestling fan of nearly 30 years, I think times like these are important, because background rivalries are celebrated just as much as the main events, this evidentally clear on this weeks Dynamite.

MJF vs Rush

When I saw the match graphic for this match last week, I have to admit that I wasn't sold on this, but after seeing, i'm happy to admit, that I was wrong, because this was excellent. With the match being able to run commercial free in the States, this gave time for things to proceed naturally, from Max getting whipped like a goverment mule, with a cable, Rush giving him a nasty looking suplex to outside of the ring, but when Max gave Rush a lariot, this started to become his downfall, as Max got the win. but the evening wasn't over for him, when. Brian cage showed up on screen, by orders of The Elite, and they've booked his match for Forbidden Door. Hechicero, this is a smart piece of booking, when you look at both mens in ring style. And I can't wait to see it.

Mark Briscoe. Orange Cassidy. Dante Martin, and Kyle O'reilly segment

I only have two take aways from this segment, no1. Mark Briscoe is one fired up m***********, and the second is. F*** off Scapegoat. 

Osperay and Swerve segment

What came next was excellent. Will Osperay, and. Swerve Strickland had a fantastic promo dual, from both men taking differant roads, to get to were they are now, from reflections of last year, and beyond. Swerve brouht up how Will beat Kenny Omega, which caused Will to fire back, saying that he doesn't need Don Callis in order to get the win. to the importance of family, becoming Swerve's visceral talking point, after he said that Osperay doesn't sacrifice enough in order to succeed. Nana tried to intervene, and Swerve ended the segment by saying to Wills loved ones, this angered Will, as he tried to get to Swerve. Damn It Don Callis then acted like Ross from friends, because everything is fine. Someone tell Trent Barretta, and. Kyle Fletcher that. This is a divine piece of booking, the return of heel Swerve, has added another layer of visceral ugliness to the proceedings. This. Was. Perfect.

8 man tag match

I'm going to be honest, I'm not a big fan of 8 man tag team matches, but. In the words of Paramore, this could be. The Only Exception. Orange Cassidy. Kyle O'reilly. Mark Briscoe, and. Dante Martin, beat. Kyle Fletcher. Konosuke Takeshista. Roderick Strong, and. Zack Sabre Jnr, because why not. Sabre and cassidy had two face offs, the physicality had a nice flow to it, and the exchanges were great. Orange bollocks got the win, with an Orange punch, this was excellent.

The Young Bucks vs The Acclaimed Tag Team Championship Eliminator

I had a lot of fun watching this. From the great physicality, the near falls blending in with the match perfectly, to Max Castor having his mic cut, before his rap could even start, by Okada, who spoke in the funniest patronising tone. I'm so sorry. BITCH, to. The Acclaimed getting the win, and a shot at The Elites Tag Team Championships.

Hook and Joe Segment

Hook and Samoa Joe, went on the hunt for the Premier Athletes, they found their locker room empty, all bar a message that read. See on Collision. Come on boys, do it for all of us crisps lovers everywhere.

Womens Championship Contract Signing

I liked all of this. The segment made me laugh from the start, Mina put over how in Stardom Tony Storm was a legend, and now she is a star. But Tony had some words for her, chin up, tits out, and watch out for the shoe, this was when Mina told Marieh, who was on hosting duties, to make a choice. Saraya then came out, with. Harley Cameron to put a stop to all of this, and she told them, that she hasn't come alone. Ana Jay came out and attacked Mina, this allowed for a fight to break out. Toni nearly puts Saraya through a table, with a hip attack. This was a great way to end the segment.

Owen Hart Tournament QuarterFinal Kris Statlander vs Nyla Rose

Kris Statlander, beat. Nyla Rose in a solid tv match. In the aftermath Stokeley Hathaway took to the mic, and told Willow if she comes near Statlander, he would have her locked up next to Justin Timberlake. Willow showed up on the big screen, and said that she would see Kris, after she beats Serena Deeb. This wasn't bad.

Chris Jericho Segment

Chris Jericho. Big Bill, and. Bryan Keith, bumped into Private Party backstage. Jericho and Bill, will face Private Party on Collision this saturday. At this point should I even care.

Daniel Garcia vs Titus

Daniel Garcia, beat a local talent enhancer, in a pointless tv match. Daddy Magic was beaten up on commentary, by. The Gates Of Agony, and. Brian Cage, but they were saved by MJF. Will Osperay came out to help with the save, but he and will ended facing each other, this was perfect, and another piece of divine booking, as it keeps that plate spinning in the background. Renee Paquette tried to talk to Will in the aftermath, but. Brian Cage called Will out and tried to have a fight with him, security pulled them apart, and Cage challenged him to a match for his Aew International Championship. I liked all of this.

Owen Hart Tournament QuarterFinal Claudio Castagnoli vs Pac

I loved this tv main event. Bryan Danielson took to the commentary desk, and this added an extra layer to this outing. This. Was. A perfect example of the hard hitting european style, being laid bare for a world audience, and it was great to see. Pac got the win with a roll up.

Overview Of Aew Dynamite

This. To me, is one of the best Dynamite's of the year, with a strong card, and excellent promo work, this weeks show was excellent.

                                                  

                                                                                                                      

My Top 5 Kenny Omega Matches

Intro

Once every so often a wrestler comes along, with the it factor, they make you sit up in your chair, whether you're in the venue in person, watching as these feats of amazement as they are performed, or at home with loved ones. Kenny Omega is a performer of the highest calibre, and a sight to be seen, because, if like me you've watched him in person, then you will know that he's special, as he elevates those in the ring with him, whether its a tv classics with Penta, and. Bryan Danielson, or. PPV barnburners, with the likes of. Christian Cage. Hangman Adam Page, and. Will Osperay. I think the sentence generational talent is overused, especially in Pro Wrestling, but. Kenny Omega is something special, and I think that needs to be recognised. So without a due, sit back and relax, as you read. My Top 5 Kenny Omega Matches with a BANG.

Kenny Omega vs Hangman Adam Page Aew Full Gear 2020

Back in late 2020, the world was  in the grip of one of the worst things since ww2, and just when things felt bleak, a ray of sunshine slowly started to rear it's head, the first vaccination was just days away from being announced, and the world of wrestling felt inconsequential as a result, with WWE's viewership starting to dwindle due to, he shall not be named dodgy booking decisions, and. Aew putting their best foot forward, beating NXT weekly in the Wednesday Night Wars, but, what made Tony Khans upstart promotion stand out, was the quality that he enjoyed showcasing. Hangman Adam Page, and Kenny Omega, had a barnburner of a PPV match, from the intricate storythread detailed within the match. The physicality flowed like a nice craft beer, and I believe that on this night, was when The Hangman saga shifted more into focus. Kenny got the win, and Hangman would go on a downward spiral. I have a real love for this era of Aew, because their tv product was starting to get better, but their PPV's needed a bit of guidance, however this reminded me, that if you dig beneath the surface, you can find gold.

Hangman Adam Page vs Kenny Omega 2 Full Gear 2021

Fast forward one year, and the. Hangman Adam Page vs The Elite saga was close to reaching its climax, and. Aew's ratings for its flagship show Dynamite, was getting over 1 million viewers stateside, and it was going good business over here in the UK on ITV4, and the. Triller TV Fite app, which is how I view the show. Even though they had made great strides upto this point, bringing legends like. Sting. Christian Cage, and of course Cm Punk, but. what helped them along in those days, was. Tony Khans ability to tell longterm stories, that could grip any wrestling fans heart, and he managed to, when this match was pulled off. This. Was. The end of a two year story, that captivated me as a fan, from the back end of 2019, when The Elite started to take more prominance on weekly tv, this match couldn't afford to fail, and it didn't, the storythread was intricately worked, and the physicality blended itself into the story of the match perfectly. Kenny dropped the belt to Hangman, and both men would go differant paths. Hangman would go on to have a seven month reign as champion, defending it against the likes of Bryan Danielson. Adam Cole, and Lance Archer, before dropping the belt to Cm Punk, whilst Omega, wouldn't be seen in Aew for nearly ten months, as he needed time to recouperate from a shopping list of Injuries.

Kenny Omega vs Bryan Danielson Aew World Heavyweight Championship

September is arguably my favourite time of year, and wrestling always tends to be eventful, and this was no differant. Just three weeks before this tv special from, Grand Arthur Ashe stadium in New york. Aew had its inargural PPV All out, which was held in Chicago, and in my opinion, this was by far their best PPV at this point, and with Danielson making his debut at the end of the main event, and going straight into a feud with Kenny Omega, the stage was set for GrandSlam. The match was amazing. You could be fooled into thinking that was on a PPV, but no, us fans were getting it on standard tv, and it was glorious. I don't care that it went to a time limit draw, because I was hooked from the start, as two of modern wrestlings finest, put on a stunning clinic, that should easily make the industry, stand up and take notice. If I recall. I think Dave Meltzer gave this 5 stars, and if he didn't, then it doesn't matter, because this in my eyes, is a modern classic, no story needed, just two warriors battling it out. Pure genius personified.

Omega vs Okada 1 NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 2017

The year was 2017, the wrestling landscape was in a differant shape to what it is now. WWE had monopolised the indy scene just months before, by creating NXT UK, buying talent contracts from smaller promotions. Aew was just a glimmer in Cody Rhodes eye, and the names Kenny Omega, and Kazuchika Okada, were slowly becoming household names in NJPW, so it was enivitible that the two would eventually meet, and when they did, an epic battle took place, at this point in time NJPW, was becoming creatively bankrupt, as most of their talent was working stateside. Finn Balor signed with WWE, and. Ricochet would leave to go and work the UK, and. American Indy scenes, and. AJ Styles would also see an exit in his future, when. WWE came a calling, but with promising talent coming through like Will Osperay, and. Jay White, the future was starting to look up for the Japanese promotion, and this match was proof of that, a thrill ride from start to finish, and it was great to see. I don't care who won, because this sparked off, a professional rivalry, that has never lost its flame.

Will Osperay vs Kenny Omega Aew Forbidden Door 2023

This. Was. A solid masterclass, in best vs the best Storytelling, that i've seen in wrestling, yes their match at Wrestle Kingdom earlier in the year, was something to behold, but I think their summer 2023 match up was better. It felt fresher, and given the fact that Aew All In at Wembley, was just around the corner, this felt special because my brain went into overdrive, fantasy booking the daylights out of it. And it didn't disapoint, both men gave everything they had, and created magic, they doug deep into their arsenal of tricks, and gave the fans in attendance, and whose watching at home. Like me, something to marvel at, they wrestled for over 45 minutes, and even though some aspects of the match had to. Westernised to appease other global audiences in my opinion. This to me, is the best Omega has ever looked, because, even in victory. This man. Is a Golden God.