Thursday, 1 August 2024

Aew Dynamite Review 1.8.2024

Dedication

Ok, guys. I'm going to do something a bit unexpected. I'm going to skip the intro for one week, and dedicate this weeks AEW Dynamite review, to those that lost their loved ones in Southport this week, my thoughts and prayers are with you, and your angels. 

MJF Segment and Will Osperay vs Lance Archer

MJF. Started off the show, and he wasn't in the best of moods, he impersonates a southern accent, whilst calling them trailor trash, meth addicts, and relating Will Osperay, to a UK Butlins redcoat, he asked the fans to rise in his name, and as by magic. Will Osperay came out. He spoke from the heart, as Max scarpered back up the ramp, Will told him that his titled isn't being recognised, because he's the man holding it, and when All In roles around, he's going to inflict unimaginable pain on Max, whilst running through the list of men, who gave everything to defend the belt that Max diguarded. Max showed no care in tarnishing the reputation of the belt that others built up, and told Will that everything dies, Will, then beat. Lance Archer in a solid tv match. Max then beat Will down in the aftermath, causing Kyle Fletcher to come out, he and Max, had a decent promo battle, that led to Kyle challenging, Max to a match, Max said no, because Max he wants it to happen on this terms, next week on Dynamite. I liked all of this.

Swerve Strickland Vingnette

We then got a Vingnette from Swerve Strickland, this acted as a precauser for what came later.

Big Bill and his big cake

I have three takeaways from this segment, no1. Bryan Keith vs Shibata screams fire. The 2nd. Chris Jericho's cake looks mighty tasty, and the 3rd one. Alex Mahvez keep your fingers out from the icing, I mean how unhygenic.

Kris Statlander vs Willow Nightingale CMLL Title Eliminator

Kris Statlander, beat. Willow Nightingale in a solid tv match, thanks to a certain chain reaction from Stokeley Hathaway. The match had great physicality, however. I'm still concerned that Willow won't getting what she deserves, a moment at Wembley Stadium.

Bryan Danielson

What came next, was the segment of the year. Bryan Danielson came out, and rallied on the phrase. You don't know what you've got, until it's gone. he talked about the good old days, being the balance of pressent, and promise, because he's had a lot of fun in AEW, after nearly having his career taken away, at this point the fans started to chant, thank you Bryan in unison, the look of emotion was riddled all across Danielsons face, this led to promise, that dealt with the ramifications from his family, from the promise that he made to his seven year old daughter, that this contract would be his last, as a full-time wrestler, he said that he's given everything to the fans, whilst having fun kicking opponents heads in, but he's never been AEW World Champion, which was one of his goals, he feels that this was yet to come, because he will be pressent at All In, mind body and soul, this brought out Swerve Strickland, and the two had a earth shattering promo dual, that was delivered, with fire, and grace, this showcased, how both of these men, are the best in the world at this moment. Swerve threatened murder, due to his dangerous actions, this led Danielson to say, that, if he can't beat Swerve, he will never wrestle again, both men shook on this. Danielson then shrugged off Jeff Jarrett. I loved all of this, and as a fan of Danielsons, for nearly two decades, it's going to be an honour to be in attendance for this match. Thank you Danielson indeed.

Trios Match

The Trio of. Roderick Strong. The Beast Mortas, and. Rush, beat. The Conglomeration, in a solid tv match. I had a lot of fun watching this, from Mark Briscoe, and. Rush, taking me back to 2018 ROH. Orange Cassidy doing what looked like a quick step, to The Beast Mortas taking out Briscoe, by going flying, he then pinned Briscoe for the win after giving him a spike, this match screamed, blink and you'll miss it, but my god it was fun.

The Acclaimed Segment

Everyone loves The Acclaimed, but Where's FTR? Collision looks alright this week doesn't it.

Marieh May Interview

Renee Paquette Interviewed Marieh May. I liked all of this. May gave a perfect examplication of how differant she is from her former mentor. Toni then came out on stage looking like a trainwreck, this furthered my opinion, because if Storm is Marilyn Monroe, then. May, is Sharon Stone. I got real Basic Instincts vibes from segment.

Camille vs Brittany Jade

Camille, battered. Brittany Jade, and then her mentor. Mercedes Mone, cut a promo, on an absent Britt Baker, saying that Britt is obsessed with her, and she's the real victim, whilst calling Saraya, when you listen to it back. I liked this.

Darby Allin vs Hangman Adam Page

This. Was. A great 1st time match up, that was fun to watch. Darby stunned Hangman on the stage, and followed that up with a coffin drop, from the top of the stage, the match had a sense of electricity, that ran through the talent, and into the main system of the arena, the steel steps took a lot of abuse from both men, that helped capatilise on the violence, that was on display. The exchanges that both men put forward, helped elevate the story of the match. Darby got the win, after Hangmans stalling became his downfall. Hangman was livid at the end of the broadcast.

Overview Of AEW Dynamite

I liked this weeks broadcast, it felt vital, and it felt relevant, as. Wembley draws near, the build intensifies even more.

This weeks Aew Dynamite is a high 8/10.

Wednesday, 31 July 2024

Top 5 Wrestling Retirements

Intro

In the world of pro wrestling, the term retirement, has emotional conitations attached to it, whether your time has come, thanks to father time, or if an injury has speeded proceedings to the point of no return. Retirement is a word, that if you're a Pro wrestling, has an endelible mark on our fandom, so this my top 5 list of the best wrestling Retirements ever.

5 Ric Flair

This one at the time, hit me hard, because at this point, I had grown up a big Ric Flair, even these days, due to allegations of sexual misconduct, Flairs stock has gone down in my books, his original retirement after Wrestlemanis 24, when he lost to Shawn Michaels, this marked the end of an era, and the end of a time, that WWE needed to move on from. His speech, came from the heart, and when HHH lead the celebrations, by bringing out his friends, family, and rivals, made for a nice touch. However, the image of him hugging he who shall not be named, hasn't aged well at all.

4 Daniel Bryan

This. Was. A nasty pill for the American Dragon to swallow. Back in 2014 Daniel was got injured, after achieving his dream, in one of the most life affirming matches, to take place on the grandest stage of them all, and then, forward two years, and Daniel had suffered a nasty concussion, he cut an emotional promo, that still until this day is hard to watch, however, his story did have a happy ending, two years later, he was given the all clear on the road to Mania 33, even though I think he should've had a singles match against Sami Zayn, the tag match he had against. Sami zayn, and. Kevin Owens, was decent, the magic just wasn't there. I can't wait to see him at Wembley Stadium, as this will be the best way for him take his flowers, after a career road, that has taken him through many twists and turns.

3 Edge

at this point. Adam Copeland is resting at his home, recovering from a broken leg, that he sustained in a match working against Malakai Black. He now works for AEW, but if you take your mind back to 2011, the WWE wasn't in a good state at all, they were failing to invest, and promote new stars, and they were going to be dealt with another blow. In 2003 he told fans that he broke his neck, and that after this point, he knew that he was wrestling on borrowed time, and as his build up, to his Mania 27 match against, an awful human being intensified, he knew that something wasn't right, so he went to his doctor, and he confirmed the worst news possible, he had spinal stinosis, a condition that if not looked at can cause severe numbness, paralysys or, death. So he had no other choice, he had to retire, so he spoke to the masses, the night after Mania, on. Monday Night Raw, and as he spoke, the fans in the arena, and watching at home, couldn't take in what they were hearing, the dust had settled on a stellar career. (or so we thought) The year was 2019, the event was Summerslam, and just as that moron Elias, was done telling the crowd, what WWE stands for, a familiar theme rang around the arena in Toronto, and just like that. Edge was back. He sphered Elias, and at this mmoment, the internet started to swell, with the same thought, what if Edge did come back, for one last match? This became a reality. In 2014 Edge got the surgery he would require, after he couldn't hold a coffee cup, the aids that helped him, would go on to join AEW as FTR, Edge, would make a heroic comeback, at the 2020 Rumble, to a tremendous pop, the emotion was palpable in the stadium, and on Copelands face, this looked like an if I die now, then i've done it moment, life comes in swings and roundabouts, and this just proves my point.

2 Shawn Michaels

Shawn Michaels has retired on two occassions, the first time was in 1998, after he suffered a back injury during a match with The Undertaker, at this point. Shawns Career, was spiralling out of control, as the parralels of drug addiction, had taken a grasp on his very being, the heartbreaking truths how his life was unfolding, led to him finding inner peace, and turning his life around, he would make a comeback, facing off against his old DX friend, now slash enemy HHH, this would lead to a full-time comeback in October, he would go on to win the WWE world heavyweight championship at 2002's Survivor Series. He would go on to have a well received second run in WWE, that would come to an end in 2010, after he failed to end the streak of The Deadman. His speech the following night on Monday Night Raw, echoed the sentiment of his time was now, as he told his family, that he's coming home, he hugged HHH on the ramp, as the pair would go down differant paths.

1 Sting

Shakesphere once wrote, some men are born into greatness, some achieve great things, whilst some have greatness thrust upon them. Sting is the very ramification of those words, his legendary status, is something that many respect, and earlier this year, a forty plus year career came to an emotional end, at AEW Revolution, this had me in tears, as he went out the way the should as champion, by retaining the tag belts alongside, with his prodige Darby Allin, the match against The Young Bucks had a solid build, and it was matched with fire, and, grace. His speech that he gave to the fans afterwards ehoed my own thoughts. God Bless you Stinger.


Monday, 29 July 2024

My Top 5 Favourite Promos

Intro

Ok guys, by now you should have read my list of my most underrated wrestling promos, so I figured it's time to hit you with my best. So sit back, relax, and grab yourselves some Mars bars, and lets get started.

5 The Paradox Of MJF

Back in early 2022. MJF, and. Cm Punk were embroided in a fierce battle of words, that became the highlight of AEW television. The pair would throw barbs back and forth at each other, from the back end of 2021, and all this fell into place, like a glove, but the best came, when I least expected it. On an episode of Dynamite, we saw the walls of Max's gingerbread house, slowly start to come down, as his vulnreble side, started to take on a show of its own, as the revolation, that he faced anti semetic bullying at school, was the capalyst for why he's the person, that he's become, but the fact that he lingered on to the hope, and love of being a Pro wrestling fan, got him through those times, but when he got the chance to meet his hero. Cm Punk, he jumped at the chance. This promo is perfect, because it was delivered with passion, and emotion. Punk couldn't believe what he had seen, and neither could I.

 4Hey Bubby Go F*** Yourself

I have just two thing to say about this segment, the first thing, was, that this was the first appearance from Jon Moxley since he had come out from Rehab, he spoke with fire and grace, and it was great to see, he looked healthy, and this was a clear implication, that Mox was back, and he wasn't going anywhere, anytime soon, and the second thing is this, if your that fan that told Mox to get out of the ring, because he's a drunk, I said this at the time, and my opinion hasn't changed. I hope you walk into your living room, and step on a piece of Lego.

3 A Rattlesnake was Born

1996 saw the WWF continue its creative state of flux. WCW Nitro was starting to fire on all cylinders, and the WWF had no answer to this. The current years at that time wouldn't be kind to the company. He who shall not be named, was indited on Federal drug charges, relating to the distribution of steroids, and fan interest had dwindled, a public image facelift was needed, and answers would slowly start to come forward, as the time, come june of 96 the King Of The Ring Tournament, would echo these sentiments. As soon as Stone Cold Steve Austin, beat. Jake The Snake Roberts, he would say the Promo that would make him millions, whilst taking shots at Roberts, this is perfection. And just like that, the fight had begun, and the Monday Night wars, were getting ready to head into overdrive. The Phrase Austin 316, still till this day, ends up on the list of WWESHOP, and. WWEEUROSHOP. coms list of top items sold, that includes mugs, and t shirts, and thats 28 years after the promo was conceived.

2 John Cena and Bray Wyatt

This came at a time when, the WWE was struggling to create new stars, the NXT Developmental system, was starting to thrive under the guidance of HHH, his way of booking, merging factions together, like glue, proved to be an excellent way for the future to blend with the main roster. Even though on the surface, this looks like a segment on the surface, it's. Johns promowork on this night was nothing short of exceptional and, his interactions with The Eater Of Worlds, made for a spellbinding experience as a fan. Bray really did have the whole world in his hands. RIP Bray. I hope the fireflies are looking after you.

1 Cm Punk The Pipebomb

What can I say about this promo, that hasn't been said already, if you cast your minds back to 2010, and 2011, the WWE's creative, was severely lacking, from the failure to create new stars, and the heavy reliance on their multi-coloured, cereal munching, cash cow, made for a confusing time for talent, this was compounded by the fact that The Miz, was placed in the main event of Mania 27, and the following years build, would rely on a years long build. So enter stage left Cm Punk, by the time july 2011 had come around, Punks relationship with WWE, was starting to become tiresome, his frustrations, that came from less than par creative, had started to get him down, so on an episode of Monday Night Raw in early July of 2011. Michael Hayes, told. The Voice Of The Voiceless, that they were going to let him air all of his grievances, and my god it was great to see. John Cena had just lost to R Truth, and in his weakened state. Punk came out and sat on the stage, he then proceeded to rip back the forbidden curtain, for all to see, from not liking the idea that John is the best in the world, forshadowing the future, whilst bringing up a friendship, that would later on disintergrate. Punks promo didn't just break down the forth wall, its become the standard bearer, in an industry, that is built on forced favouritism, and faulse hope. To me, this is Phil Brook's finest hour.



Sunday, 28 July 2024

 Smackdown Review 28.7.2024

Intro

Ok. I have to start with an apology. I was due to have this review, worked and published, on Saturday, but the road on which I live, suffered a major powercut, that lasted over 20 hours, so as a result I've had to make a difficult editorial decision, because we had another powercut, whilst I was at my day job. This has delayed everything, and it has made me make a difficult decision, their won't be a AEW Collision review, this week. I understand that this is annoying, and if I had more hours in the day, then I work the show over, without an issue, and one other thing, due to my day job, this week, there won't be a. Monday Night Raw Review, but. I do have something planned, so keep your eyes pealed.

The Bloodline Segment

Nick Aldis had the task of telling Solo Sikoa, and his crew, that they would have to forefit, the. Tag Team Gauntlet match, due to Tonga Loa's eye injury. Solo was having none of this, and instantly put Jakub Fatu in the team, to replace his cousin. Let the destruction begin.

LA Knight vs Santos Escobar

WWE gave LA Knight the walk through camera shot treatment, and it was great, yeeeeeeeeaaaaaah, his promo acted like a pre curser for what was to come, he beat Escobar in a fun encounter, that came with shenanigans, courtesy of Logan Paul, however this backfired, because Knight got the win after this, by hitting Santos with his blunt force trauma finisher, Knight was beaten in the aftermath. Logan Paul told Byron Saxton, that next week his friend will have something for him. I think it's a crypto coin, out of court settlement.

Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair Segment

Byron Saxton was interviewing Naomi backstage, and there wasn't a Blair Davenport in sight, Bianca and Jade then showed up, and both parties had their laughs, before. Jade, and. Bianca went to the ring, their promo was weak, and the attack from Fyre, and. Dawn, was laughable. I don't want to watch the match, when it goes down.

Tag Team Gauntlet Match

Tama Tonga, and. Jakub Fatu, beat. Apollo, and Corbin, The OC. Angel, and. Berto. The Street Profits, and. Pretty Deadly, and are now the new No1 contenders for the Tag Team Championships. I'm not the biggest fan of Gauntlet matches, because I feel the whole concept is a little bit forced, and predictable in nature, but this was watchable, and all the teams involved had a good showing, their chemistry levels were decent, and this helped elevate everyone in the match.

ATown Down Under Segment

I don't have a lot to say about this segment, other than. Terrence Crawford knocking out Austin Theory, thanks to Grayson Waller. I felt great watching this. I wonder why?

Cody Rhodes Interview Segment

I liked this, when Cody is in front of the fans he's electric, but when he's talking directly into the camera, he's something special. This. Was. A subtle tale of, when the big competition is done, another one is just around the corner, this is a perfect way to describe his rivalry with Solo Sikoa. Great stuff.

Carmelo Hayes and Andrade Segment

So WWE want to give us. Andrade vs Carmelo Hayes again. Ok, go on then if you must.

Michin and Bayley vs Nia Jax and Tiffany Stratton

Nia Jax, and. Tiffany Stratton, beat. Michin, and. Bayley in a flat tv match, that made me think, man this was a waste of time.

Solo Sikoa Segment

I loved this. Solo's ability to hit my senses, is something that I look forward to every week, his forshadowing is something that will happen, and the consequences will be formidable, on an explosive level.

Overview of Smackdown

I liked this weeks edition of entertainment, brought to us courtesy of WWE's blue brand. The segments went from poor, to good, to great, but the in ring action remained consistant, in my opinion, I'm excited for next weeks PLE.

This Weeks Smackdown is solid 7/10.

Friday, 26 July 2024

What are the most underrated wrestling promos ever 

Intro

The cannon of Pro wrestling has a wide, filled verse, with great ways to tell stories. Words hold a major part in this form of the zeitgeist, if you watch a film, like, A clockwork Orange, and you see the first ten minutes, in silence, you will just see the striking level of violence, but when you turn the volume back up, the verse of Singin In The adds a level of unpredictability, that draggs you kicking and screaming down a senses overkill lane. Words in Pro Wrestling are no differant, stories are told in many differant ways, yes, the physicality is a major part of the spectacle, but words are a form of violence, in the terms of how they are delivered, and received, Promos are the lifeblood of the industry, and a great way to start rivalries, and in some cases take a deeper look into a performers mind, of a performer, these are just some of my favourite moments.

5 The Rock and William Regal Smackdown November 2000

This. Was perfect, here in the UK, we don't celebrate Thanksgiving, but if we did, then I would have no problem sitting down, after a large meal, filled to the brim with all the good stuff, and watching this, with my pants loosened. This aired on the Thanksgiving episode of Smackdown in the year 2000, and it was great. The Great One has had many great promos, but for me, this has to be one of my favourites, his dual with William Regal, was priceless, the value of etticate has never been so funny.

4 HBK Who's Your Daddy Montreal

Heel promos can be a hotbed of controversy, and if you have a negative history, with the place were you're cutting it, then you can prepare to have the ground open up, and eat you alive. HBK shawn Michaels on the night of the 15th of August 2005, just six days before he met Hulk Hoogan, in the main event of Summerslam, did just that, he played on the fans in attendence love of one man, by playing Bret Harts music. I don't think much of this was scripted, and you could tell, this was Shawn delving into that dick side of his personality, and it was great to see. Who's your Daddy indeed.

3 Steiner Math

Ok, if you're trying to teach your kids math, as part of their homework, and you really can't be assed to do it, just get Scott Steiner to do it, I mean it's really effective. Need I say anymore.

2 Jeff Jarrett and Kurt Angle face to face TNA Impact 16. 6. 2011

From the core of honouring the business, to the relevance of personal affairs. I remember watching this on challenge TV here in the UK, and I thought to myself, this is an underrated gem, and with everything that came before this in their personal lives. It felt like a final corner stone was being touched.

Dusty Rhodes Hard Times

This. Is. A lesson in how to resonate with your core audience. Dusty Rhodes crafted this promo, in order to speak to the common men, and every blue collar worker on a global level, at a time when the wrestling industry catered to the rich, whilst the working mans man, was looked at through the eyes of pound notes, and dollar bills, this was reflected perfectly by Rhodes in his 1987 promo, in the build up to his match at that years Starrcade PPV against. Ric Flair, the two counterparts, couldn't be more differant, and the balance is a fascinating watch. Dusty was a mastermind when it came to promos, to the point that his influence could easily be felt on the likes of. Stone Cold Steve Austin. HHH. Kurt Angle, and even Bray Wyatt. His mind will always be missed, because his mic work was simply exceptional. RIP to the American Dream.





Thursday, 25 July 2024

AEW Dynamite Blood And Guts Review 25.7 2024

Intro

Ok. I've just finished watching this weeks AEW Dynamite, and I have to say, that my excitement levels for Wembley, has just shot up to an exceeding level. The spinning plate trick that Tony Khan could'nt master last year, is slowly starting to pay off, in dividend fashion, the booking has been smart, and it seems like injuries won't be an issue. Ok. Patrick I think it's safe to start chanting. WEMBLEY, WEMBLEY, WEMBLEY. over, and over, and over again.

Will Osperay segment

Alex Mahvez tried to get a word with Will Osperay, but someone has slashed his tyres, so he tells Mahvez, to give him his keys, and let him use his renter vehicle, to get to the arena in Nashville.

MJF Segment

I loved all of this, MJF came out being cheered on by Local Cheerleaders, his promo was excellent, he called Will a coward, and a choke artist, whilst reminding us just why, he's our Scumbag, tarnishing the name of Wills dead Granmother, and telling Will to take a jump off the pier. He then introduced the new look International Championship, by embracing his inner Lex Luger, and becoming the face off America. Will came out, and attacked Max, and told him that his rematch will take place on home soil. Wembley Stadium. Tony Khan, and. Christopher Daniels agreed to this. This. Was. Brilliant. Belts not belong in the bin. But, my god that American belt looks, well, umm, interesting. MJF vs Swerve Strickland, oh go on then.

The Elite Segment

The Elite got the Advantage In the Blood And Guts Match, after they decked Christopher Daniels. The saint known as Mark Briscoe, then fired me, my dog Jane, and his AEW team mates up later on in the broadcast.

Chris Jericho vs Minoru Suzuki FTW Championship

I liked all of this, it felt nasty, violent, and, essential. Suzuki made Jericho's chest look like roast ham, both men showcased fantastic energy, as they dug into their bag of tricks, their chopfest resembled someone doing a Mick Dundee impersonation. Chris hit Minoru with a Judas effect for the win, his Learning Tree faction then came out to beat him down, after he hit Chris with a Gotch Piledriver, Katsuyori Shibata, then made the save. Be Still my NJPW beating heart.

Willow Nightingale Segment

Willow Nightingale, was then battered backstage by. Kris Statlander. Boo hss boo.

Danielson Segment

Bryan Danielson was interviewed by Renee Paquette, for a Youtube video coming soon, when Jeff Jarrett stepped in,  and gave him some sage advice. I liked all of this.

Britt Baker vs Hikaru Shida

Britt Baker, beat. Hikaru Shida, in a solid match, and was then greated by. Mercedes Mone, she told Britt that Wembley isn't happening for her, and then she was decked by an incoming Camile. I liked this development.

Patriarchy Segment

Everyones favourite dad, and stand up guy, Christian Cage, said that his son. Nick Cage will be in the Rampage Battle Royal. Nick then insulted Kip Sabians dead Dad, what is with insulting dead relatives on this broadcast.

Pac vs Boulder

Pac, beat. Boulder, in a pointless match, why was this even on the card. Make it make sense.

Marieh May vs Kaitlin Alexis

Marieh May, beat. Kaitlin Alexis in a squash match, but it was the end that had me howling, and screaming. Toni Storm returned, and attacked Marieh May, her disguise made her look like part of the medical team, she screamed at May. ARE YOU READY TO DIE, BECAUSE I AM, Security pulled them apart to end the segment. This. Was. Brilliant.

Blood And Guts The Elite vs Team Aew

I enjoyed this chaotic barn burner, from. Jack Perry, and. Darby Allin setting the tone, in the early going. Mark Briscoe showing why he's wrestlings unsung hero, by cleaning house upon his entrance. Matt and Nick Jackson, giving us a glimpse into what their favourite film is, that's easy Se7en, what's in those cases. Anthony Bowens, and. Matt Jackson had a fascinating tussle. Darby then gave him a skateboard full of tacks. Bowens used Jack Perry as a human pin cushion. Okada had some fun with a street sign named Okada. Max Castor dropped people with his mic. Bowens was the filling in a barbwire board sandwich, courtesy of The Bucks. Castor was then made to eat some tacks. Hangman Adam Page looked like a no show. Nick Jackson got a barbwire board shot, thanks to Anthony Bowens. Swerve was then taken out by Page on his entrance, by a patient Hangman, who battered him on the outside of the cage, this pissed off Matt Jackson, who told Hangman to get in the cage, or he will be fired, the level violence that was on display, was glorious. Hangman vs Okada teased a match. Jeff Jarrett, and Daddyass, then gave Brandon Cutler a guitar shot, they free'd Swerve, and Hangmans game at this point, was all over the place. The cases were full of Staplers. Hangman accidentally gave Okada a buckshot. Bowens took one hell of a fall through 4 tables, at the hands of Nick Jackson. Darby's Coffin Drop from the top of the cage onto Jack Perry, was sick, he then chained the scapegoat up to the cage, retrieved a can of gasoline, poured him in the stuff, and threatened to set him on fire, if he didn't get a TNT Championship match, at All In. Nick Jackson stepped in and said. Ok, you can have the match, just don't become keith Flint from The Prodigy, a twisted fire firestarter, and just like that, team Aew got the win, yes this was a weak ending to a good match, but it didn't ruin my enjoyment at all.

Overview Of Aew Dynamite Blood And Guts 2024

I loved this weeks Dynamite, I can understand why some fans don't like the finish, to the main event, but to me, it hasn't ruined my enjoyment of the show, the womens division seems to be having a good bit of focus put on it. Two veterans battered each other. MJF's promo was again solid, and the main event was class, even though it had elements of controversy. This. Is. Another excellent Dynamite, and is one of their best of the year.

 AEW Dynamite Blood And Guts 2024 is an easy 10/10.



 

Tuesday, 23 July 2024

Top 5 Monday Night Raw Segments

Intro

Ok, guys I'm having to start off with an apology, my EE TV box decided to turn heel on me, and only recorded the first hour of Monday Night Raw, this is a nightmare, if you're trying to get into the reviewing game. The one thing that I've prided myself on is giving you guys, the best reviews on the web, but sometimes, these things happen, so instead i'm going to give you guys a top 5 list, basically i'm doing a Dwayne johnson, and i'm piveting, and i'm going to create something special, because when life gives you lemons, you create Diet Coke. Once again, my apologies.

   5 John Cena Dis Track of Dwayne Johnson

As the year long build towards Wrestlemania 28 was bubbling, in the late part of 2011, both. The Rock, and. Cena, had divided fans down the middle, but It was cena's rap segment, that to me, stole my senses. His delivery was flawless, and his energy, was palpable, love him or hate him, Cena is one of the best on the mic.

4 Austin vs Tyson

With Wrestlemania 14 looming on the horizon, he who shall not be named, needed a special guest enforcer. Enter stage left, one of the controversial men to ever enter the boxing ring. Iron Mike Tyson. Before he could even say a Word, out came the Bionic Redneck Stone Cold Steve Austin. This was electric. Austin cut a promo that cut straight to the point. Tyson was in Austins ring, and that wasn't ok with The Texas Rattlesnake, a fight broke out, and it was on, I loved this as an 11 year old, and I love it as a 37 year old. Man I love looking back on things like this.

3 This Is Your Life

Were do I begin with segment, the humour, flawless, the timing, all over the place, but my god this was vital. Mick Foley, and. The Rock on this night in september 1999, created a perfect blend that has never been bettered, or perfected. I think this still holds up, but, this is just my opinion. From yirple the clown. The Rocks home ec teacher, his gym teacher, and of course his High school girlfriend, who didn't let sample some of her, well, you know. This segment is a perfect example of how comedy, can bring the best out of two comedic talents. This is a must watch.

2 The Festival Of Friendship

Again, this is another fantastic example, of how comedy, can mix with reality, this happened in the build up to Wrestlemania 33, and it was great. Chris Jericho, and. Kevin Owens, were perfect foils for each other, it was the perfect blend of comedy, gullableness, Las Vegas Cheese, and dodgy pressents, and it was great to see. It was timed perfectly, and has become a standout moment in the history of WWE's Monday Night Broadcasts.

The Trial Of Sami Zayn

With WWE's plans having to undergo a facelift, what they came up with, was nothing short of creative genius. I was starting out in the reviewing game when this came out, and as a fan of wrestling for over 30 years. This. Is, by far the greatest segment, to have ever graced Monday Nights, from the backdrop of mistrust, and superb belivibility, as the WWE headed into The Royal Rumble, this was, the perfect balance of tension, and drama, being portrayed on a weekly wrestling show. Over the past 2 years, I have been a massive fan of HHH's, slow and passive build, when it comes to big shows, what unfolded on this night, would act as a look into the window, of what is later to come, down the line, from the balance of tension, and well brought up storytelling, watching Sami Zayn live his life, on the balance of a switchblade, made for compulsive viewing, at the hands of the group that showed him acceptance, and love, and how their leader, and our Tribal Chief Roman Reigns, groomed him into abstruct behaviour, this made for some of the best tv, that WWE has ever produced, because if you build him up, then at some point, he must fall. This segment is perfection, enough said.

Sunday, 21 July 2024

My Wrestling Fandom Pt2

Intro

Ok guys, I have been wanting to write this for some time, as someone who loves doing wrestling reviews, with added humour, In the early part of this year, I considered telling stories from my youth, so, well, I did just that, the piece was called. My Wrestling  Fandom. I had a great time writing it, so, I decided to turn it into a series, so I pressent to you, my loyal readers with this, the thing we all came here for. Some hardcore stupidity from my teen years.

Steve Blackman Was The Man

When I was eight years old, my mum enrolled me into Karate lessons, because at that age, I watched The Karate Kid for the first time, and wanted to learn the crane kick. Five years go by, and i'm still taking Karate lessons, and as you guessed, my obsession with wrestling had got to the point that my mum, had to ban me from buying the PPV's, when they came out on vhs. So imagine my suprise, when I saw a legit badass, that wielded nunchucks. It was like, my god, this man is a badass, and I was right. I loved this man. I've heard the stories, that have come out over the years. When I was around 13 years, I was in my families field, and I came across a tool that that looked nunchucks, even though my dad had told, PATRICK DON'T PLAY WITH THESE. EVER, my brain didn't register this at all, because all I was thinking about, was becoming my Martial/wrestling hero. Steve Blackman. So I spent time practising, so I could get this down to a tee, that was until one fateful Summers afternoon, things went south. I was practising away thinking, my god i've mastered the art of nunballchucku. My Dad called me over, asking where his weapon of mass toolery was. I lied, and told him. I don't know, that was until I had finished. I was so pleased, I messed up my hands, and the tool hit me square in the balls. I screamed so loud, that they could hear me in Aylesbury. My Dad had that look, that all parents get, when their kids do some seriously dumb s***, I mean, yeah he was pissed, and I was grounded for a long ass time, but It was worth it, to act like my hero, a bad, wrestling version of. Stars In Their Eyes, and don't worry everything still works, thank god.

Sky Digital ( oh the arguments )

When I was twelve years. I had started the UK equilevant to High School, which for me was a tab differant, because I went to a special needs school, but I did have a core group of friends, and at this age, all anyone thinks about, is hanging. My friend Tim at the time had ordered the WWE Rebellion, this was going to be a big hang out, and everyone was invited, only one thing, I couldn't go, and I really wanted to. I asked my mum, and she said, no, you can't go, and I said why, she said Patrick your asking for money for snacks, and we just don't have that type of money, even they had just shifted money on my brothers guitar equipment, so one monday afternoon after, we had one almighty row, and things got said, my brother at this time, was a complete unapologetic s*** stirrer, and made things worse, and wound me3 up even further, and even more things got said, between me and my mum, this led to me to saying the unthinkable, you think of him, more than me, my dad had just come home at this point, and he was starving, but even though at the time I felt no guilt over what I had said, I felt more guilt because, when your a kid, the worst thing you can do, is ruin your tea, so after I pissed off my mum, I ate two Mars Bars, a bag of Watsits, ( the UK version of Cheetos ) and a can of coke, I was stuffed, and my dad, who had worked all day was starving, and wanted one of these treats, and at this point my dad shouted. WHO'S EATEN THE LAST OF THE WATSITS, and my mum was like, he's in their. My Dad was like, i'm done with this kid, you deal with him. And my mum was like. Ok, here I go again. Sorry mum I have to mention this story, because it's kind of priceless. Right that reminds me, put Watsits on my weekly shopping list. I did get see Insurrextion 2000 mind you, even though that was seven months later, it's like that Spongebob meme, except it's not a few hours later. it was seven f****** months later. We didn't we just pay for Sky, then I wouldn't have had to rely on, dodgy Videotapes from a mate of mine at school.

Vhs tapes

The year 2001, was when my younger days, peaked as a wrestling fan. My favourite PPV at this time was The Royal Rumble, an event that had solid matches, and highly problematic moments, over here in the UK it was given an 18 certificate by the bbfc, who ruin films for everyone over here in my country. My family were on holiday in Hayling Island, so one Wednesday evening we took a fateful trip to an Asda, that is located in Havant, which is a twenty minute drive on the out skirts of the island, we arrived at the store, and my mum told me, that we couldn't afford big treats, cds, Videos, or, dvds, bear in mind that I was only 14, and I had to pittiful jobs for my Dad, so I was only making about $3.50 per job, ( I know Right ) my brother went off to the clothes department, and I went to the cd, videotape, and, dvd section, and this to a young teenager was like walking into an all you could buy Buffet, If you were a rich brat, because I could never afford anything, so you could Imagine my joy, when I saw a copy of. WWF Royal Rumble 2000 on vhs, I was so excited, to the point that when my mum came to get me to go home, I asked can I have this video, she took one look at the cover, and recoiled in horror, when she saw a naked Terri Runnels on the cover, and the she saw the certificate, and she uttered those words that every child of any age dreads. PUT IT BACK, so I did just that, but I noticed something on the way back to the trolley, there was a Comono shirt right next to the fruit and veg, so I asked her what's going on, and she said that she got this for my brother, this pissed me off, we argued over this for days, to the point that my dad was like, just buy him the tape, because it would shut him up, but my mum held firm, and said no, means no. It was about a day later, that I realised, we were out visiting other family members, and my brother wore this fashion statement, and I realised that I had a lucky escape, because my dad introduced to gambling and I won big, a hole $15.00, so I could buy the Videotape that I wanted, my mum was pissed, and I told her, oh relax mum, it could be worse, at least i'm not the guy walking down the road in a f****** Comono shirt, because he looked, well, awful. We went home, and I got verbally abliserated, for buying the tape, but it was well worth, I mean that I quit match, was quality. 



My Top 5 Stone Cold Steve Austin Matches

Intro

Bionic Redneck. Bulletproof. And. What, are pefect ways to describe the man that helped shape my teenage years, but, all of this fails in comparison, to when the sound of shattering glass, would send the fans in attendence into a state of unparralled euphoria, upon his entrance, his adility to resonate within the ever growing changes of this industry, has always been a mission statement for. If you want it bad enough, you can achieve it, which I find inspiring, and that's the bottom line because Stone Cold said so. 

5. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs HHH No Mercy 2001

I remember watcing this at my friends house on a inset day from school, and my god it was great, the match had a two out of three falls stipulation, sowed into its dna, and what that made for was, a bloodfilled riot, the violence was reminiscent of something that would come from the early eighties, as the blood flowed, the violence sold the story, if Austin lost, then he would not feature in the main event of Wrestlemania 17. The Game was hell bent on not making that happen, their rivalry to this point had seen. Attempted murder, on two occasions, a decent tv match for the belt get ruined by Hunter, and of course a stop off at that years Royal Rumble. Austin got the win, whilst being caped in his own blood, and would go on to face The Rock, at the show of shows, whilst Hunter had a meeting with the deadman, as the legendary streak continued.

4 Stone Cold vs HHH No Mercy 1999

This match repressented the changing of the guard, HHH was the champion heading into this show, even though at this point HHH had only been champion for a month, it was clear that this was the route that WWF were going to go down. The heel Champion to lead the company, at a time when all of their shots turned into gold, this No dq Match symbalised a break from the norm, as, our Bionic Redneck was due to take time off in just under a month, the match was a passing of the torch, from fighting in the fans, to both men showing why they were the best at moment in time, I must've watched this match at least twenty times as a kid. Both mens careers after this match would take differant turns. Austin would go on a hiatus, in order to get surgery for an old neck injury, that had resurfaced. And HHH would go on to lose the belt, and get it back over the weeks that followed.

3 Stone Cold Steve Austin vs Shawn Michaels Wrestlemania 14

I get asked this all the time from my friends, why was this match so important at the time. In the early part of 1998, the attitude was yet to spark into life, from the volcano it was born in. Stone Cold was a red hot run, whilst his opponent. Shawn Michaels was the Champion, who was personally struggling to live the life of a champion, two months before Mania, Shawn injured his back, at the Royal Rumble, in a Casket match against The Undertaker. This would have a devastating, long lasting effects on his career. So when you add all of this together, and it made for a fascinating complex match. Shawns time carrying the company, had come to an end. Steve got the win, and the rest is history, a new attitude swept through the WWF, that would become their most financially beneficial time period. Shawn was forced to chew a bitter pill, whilst the Austin, and attitude era had not just begun, it managed to gain some feet, and ran, whilst it was figuring out, how to walk.

2 Stone Cold Steve Austin vs The Rock Wrestlemania 17

As time winds on, this match has grown on me, from when I first watched it, all of those years ago. I loved the storyline going into it, but I didn't feel the match lived up to the hype, however, when you take in all of the major aspects, this has made for a great rewatch over the years, from the cameras flashing at the sight of their square off, to the level of violence echoing the times, and how they were changing, the after effect of this match, has a mixed bag attatched to it. The Rock would go on to film the Scorpion King, and start a career that would smash the world of Hollywood, whilst Injuries would riddle the rattlesnake, until his retirement at Wrestlemania 19, at the hands of The Great One. Steve got the win over The rock on this night, and he was then booed out of the building, when he shook hands with. He who shall not be named. Steve's profit would then start to fall, as the rest of the year unfolded.

Bret Hart vs Stone Cold Steve Austin Wrestlemania 13

Many fans consider this to be, the best match of both mens careers, and I don't disagree. This is a perfect example of, violence being soaked in blood, allowing the story of the match to form into art, this was perfect. Bret got the win after austin refused to tap, passing from the pain of a sharpshooter, as the blood dripped down steve's broken body, this is the definition of a star making performance, just perfect.


Smacklillision Review

Intro

Just the other day, I was sat this very desk writing up another steller piece of fiction, and all of a sudden, and for some reason, I started thinking, that it's almost a year since we lost Bray. The day after the news broke, all that I could talk about, with my friend dave was, the fact that this was just so sudden, and at that point all that went through my mind was, yes, Patrick Summer is a great time to be a wrestling fan, but don't forget, life, will always do life things, and it won't always be nice, we need to cherish the time we have, and achieve what we can, whilst we have the time.

Smackdown

Cody Rhodes Segment

I loved this segment. I don't know what it is that Cody has, but if you could bottle up, and sell it, then you would become an instant millionaire, his charisma knows no bounds. he put over Randy Orton for the sacrifices that he has made, over the years, and for his being his friend, and mentor, when he didn't have to. Cody then called out Solo Sikoa, and spoke about what he saw in his eyes, when he first laid his sights, on the new leader of The Bloodline, he's not ready. Atown Down Under, then came out, acting like a pair of Juvinal dickheads, Cody laid in the seeds of seperation, as Waller blamed Cody for everything that happened last week to Randy Orton. By this point Cody, he'd, had enough of this pair, and attacked them both, he was then seen speaking to Nick Aldis, and he told him, to book him in a match against these idiots. Nick said ok, but, he has to find a tag team partner, because he wasn't going to let Cody go rogue.

Carmelo Hayes vs Andrade

I liked this. Andrade, beat. Carmelo Hayes, in a solid tv match, my only complaint. It went nowhere.

Bayley and Nia Jax Segment

I liked all of this, from the split screen format, to both ladies having a great Promo dual, that showcased Nia's new found freedom to act like a heel,  Bayleys believibility, and of course both ladies playing on reality, that at one point, ( well many actually ) Plagued Nia's career, this may not be everyones cup of tea, but I liked it.

Piper Niven and Chelsea Green and Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill segment

Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, Chelsea Green, and Piper Niven, were seen outside the office of. Smackdown General Manager Nick Aldis. Bianca challenged Chelsea to a match. Chelsea Accepted. She would lose to Belair, in a flat tv match, Fyre and Dawn, said that they will see, Bianca and Jade, at a later date. This. Was. A mixbag.

United States Championship Contract signing

Nick Aldis oversaw the proceedings. LA Knight, and. Logan Paul, had a great back and forth promo dual. From insulting Sons Of Anarchy, to breaking down the forth wall, Knight allowed Paul, to take over, which means he took a backseat, and it made sense, Both men had a fight to end the segment, beforehand, Nick Aldis tried to put a stop to this, but he failed.

Tiffy Stratton vs Michin

I wasn't a huge fan of the match, yes, the Bayley spot was timed perfectly, when she battered Nia Jax, but the match, felt a bit slow to me. Michin got the win, and little ms Tiffany, was left stunned, because Bayley used her MITB briefcase, to batter Jax, Does Tiffany not know that she can buy her own on. WWEShop.com. I mean she looked crushed, and for no reason.

The Bloodline Segment

Cody's partner, better be someone who shows no fear, because. Solo Sikoa, and his gaggle of P***** are damn scary.

Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens vs Atown Down Under

And just like that, we see Kevin Owens walking out to the ring, from a walk out shot. Kevin Owens is Cody's Tag Team Partner. The match was decent, it had a decent level of physicality to it, and it flowed well. Cody, and. Kevin, got the win, and then it happens, just after the sound of the three count, had echoed around the arena. Solo Sikoa. Tama Tonga. Tonga Loa, and everyones favourite, psycho in resident. Jakub Fatu, all came to the ring. Solo took a back seat, whilst Jakub took up the role of Alex Delarge, as the battered KO, Cody was then put through the announcers table, whilst Solo overlooked the damage that he, and his crew, had done. This. Was. A great way to take the show off the air.


AEW Collision

Darby Allin vs The Beast Mortas

This. Match had a solid eb and flow to it, and it worked for an opening contest, it was a perfect mesh of styles, as the american fast pace, came up against, the solid speed of Mexico. Darby got the win with a coffin drop, he then cut an excellent promo, he took shots at The Young Bucks, claiming that the house they built, is now his home, because they never come to Collision, or do media assignments, Darby does them, because he loves this business, he then called out Jack Perry for a match at All In. I liked all of this.

Hikaru Shida vs Skye Blue

Ok. I'm just going to get this out of the way. Accidents happen, and as fans we need to remember that, we things go wrong. Skye Blue got injured after a crossbody from Shida went wrong. No one likes seeing things like this. I would like to take this time to wish Skye Blue a speedy recovery. Shida called out Britt Baker later on. Nigel Mcguiness on commentary was a fantastic voice of reason.

Lance Archer Segment

Lance Archer was backstage battering fools, ok this guy looks pissed off. Patrick if he wants the last Maryland Cookie from pack, you give it, or you might end like Marco Stunt, going head first through the ceiling.

Chris Jericho Segment

Chris Jericho, then called his match, this week, against. Minoru Suzuki, a dream match. ( that's a stretch )  I mean yeah, I guess.

Tony Nese vs Rey Fenix

The match started with Tony Nese, making me feel guilty for eating a pack of Rowntrees pic'n Mix, as he boby shamed the fans in attendance, I like Pic'n Mix from Rowntrees, so leave it out, alright. Fenix got the win, and. Smart Mark Sterling took a kick to the face, so to me this was a 5 star classic, come fight me Dave.

Tony Schiavone Interviews FTR

Tony Schiavone interviewed FTR, and this was the segment of the night. Cash Spoke from the heart, about the stress of his legal situation, and how the untruths made him feel, and how seeing the fans, and how being able to perform was his release, and how they have set their sights on The Young Bucks. Dax picked up the mantel, and talked about their triumphs, as they start their route to get the Tag Team Championships, it will start next week, and it will end at Wembley Stadium. Dax promised that they will give their all to make sure this happens. I loved this.

Roderick Strong vs Tomohiro Ishii

Watching this match took me back to when ROH was a viable comodity, the match had a great flow to it, the physicality was performed at a eye watering level, to the point that Rodericks chest, was made to look like roast ham. The Fluidity enhanced the violence of the match, which allowed the back and forth to brings things to a close, thanks to Taven, and. Bennett. Roderick got the win with a big knee, let this be a lesson to you kids, cheating is never cool.

Hologram Debut

Hologram made his Aew Debut, by beating Loco Gringo, in a flat tv match. Ok, now I'm going to tell you what I really think, his costume needs urgent attention, because he looks Like early 1990's dodgy WCW creative, had sex with a power ranger, and this was the result. My god, he looked ridiculous.

A Rivalry coming full circle

The Von Erichs, and. The Rhodes families, coming together. I have no words other than. Isn't nice to Dustin Rhodes. Kevin Von Erich, and his sons, all together. If only Dusty could see this.

Ladies Lumberjack Match Thunder Rosa vs Deonna Purrazzo

I have to say that i'm not the biggest fan of Lumberjack Matches, because he who shall not be named, completely bastardised the concept, but. Was this match any good, well, no. It was a flat waste of time, and it's a shame, because both of these ladies, deserve much better than this. Purrazzo got the win, thanks to Taya Valkyrye handing her some ring equipment, La Mera Mera was left seeing stars.

The Patriarchy vs The Bang Bang Gang Aew Trios Championships

I wasn't a fan of this match, parts of it fell short of my expectations, but that doesn't mean that it was unwatchable, not by a long country mile, for instance, the fans came alive, and started shouting for Juice Robinson, the father and son relationship between Cage, and. Wayne was on full display, and the family relationship, would come into full effect for the finish. Moma Wayne sprayed Juice in the eyes with pepper spray, allowing Cage to hit him with a killswitch for the win. This felt a bit predictable to me.

Overview Of The Weekend

I, for the most part, enjoyed this weekends wrestling, the action flowed nicely, whilst the promos stole the show, and even though watching Collision this week, gave me bad flashbacks to Impact wrestling from 2017. I feel what makes each promotion differant needs to celebrated, this weekend should act as a reminder of that.

This weekends Friday Night Smackdown is a decent 7/10.

And this weeks AEW Collision is also a decent 7/10.

 



My Top 5 Reasons Why I Love Summerslam. 5. Timing. It's no secret that I love Summerslam. I feel that the timing behind this is perfect....