Aew Collision Review 3.8.2024

 Intro

With Wembley beconning on the horizon, for Tony Khan and his little promotion that can, their weekly tv output looks like it is stepping up a gear, things are starting to feel fresher, more vital, and more easy to digest, in comparison to last year, and whilst Tony Khan, manages to balance the plates, on his ever improving circus trick, the booking can improve, and the company can grow as a result.

The Patriarchy Segment

I loved this segment, because it was so well conceived. Christian Cage, everyones favourite tv dad, and stand up guy. He talked about, how he wants to use this as a springboard to get back to the top, and also punishing his daughter outside the ring, this led him to crown Nick Wayne, and. Moma wayne, with two of the trios belts, because Moma wayne gave birth to a future legend, whilst. Killswitch hasn't, the look on Killswitch's face said everything. The House Of Black came out, Christian gives them some advice, this does'nt go well, because their soon joined by The Bang Bang Gang, Kip Sabian comes out to aid, both teams with Nick Wayne. But hey, at least Buddy Matthews is back.

Lexi Nair segment

Am I the only person, who thinks that it's great to. The Rhodes, and. Von Erich Families together on tv. I liked this segment.

Mistico and Hologram vs The Premier Athletes

Mistico, and. Hologram, beat. The Premier Athletes, in a standard tv match, there wasn't a lot to this.

Toni Storm vs Local Jobber

Toni Storm won her match, but. She was more concerned with Marieh May, who was on commentary. Security stood in the way of May, as the match was allowed to take place.

MJF Goes To Mexico

MJF went to Mexico, and he pretty much offended everyone, don't ever change Maxwell.

Kyle Fletcher vs Brian Cage

This. Was. Great, the physicalty was on a decent level, from both men fighting on the ramp. Kyle got the win, and then cut a promo on Mjf. Max showed up on the big screen, and answered Fletchers challenge to put his American Championship on the line. Max refused, and told him that he will give him a title eliminator, so now their match on wednesday, will act as an audition for Kyle.

Jeff Jarrett segment

I love Jeff Jarrett, he will now face Danielson in a no dq match on Dynamite. I like this, his promo was balanced perfectly, with Danielsons Vingnette.

Lee Moriarty vs Tomohiro Ishii vs Claudio Castagnoli

Claudio Castagnoli, beat, Lee Moriarty, and. Tomohiro Ishii, in a fun three way match, he will now face Kazuchika Okada, at a later date.

Thunder Rosa vs Taya Valkyrye

Thunder Rosa, beat. Taya Valkyrye in a flat tv outing, which is a shame. She then had a promo dual with Deonna Purrazzo, the pair will face each other next week, in a bullrope match.

Darby Allin Mark Briscoe and FTR vs The Kingdom and The Beast Mortas

I liked all of this, the match had a good flow, and the matches within the match, were great. The Beast Mortas as a high flyer, is something to be seen, however, he was put away with a Froggy Bow, and coffin drop combo, as Darby and Mark got the win for their team. Dax Harwood, then took to the mic, but, before he could say a word out came The Acclaimed, Anthony Bowens, showed the world just how great he is on the mic. A fight then broke out to end the broadcast, handshakes never work in wrestling do they.

Overview Of AEW Collision

I thought this weeks Collision was a mixbag, and a good one at that. Collision is what it is nowadays.

This Weeks AEW Collision is a solid 7/10.

WWE Summerslam 2024 Review

Intro

Agh yes Summerslam, the biggest party of the summer, next to the Reading Festival. As the years have gone on, this show, has become WWE's second highest performing PLE next to wrestlemania, because this show, now acts as a story setter, and on the grounds of this years event, I think it's time to get excited.

HHH segment

HHH welcomed us to the hottest event of the summer, and he did it in style, he welcomed Jellyroll, to perform his new track Liar, he did a decent enough jod, his performance was intergrated, with highlights from the build up. He sounded great, and as a fan of country music, I want some Jellyroll in the UK.

The Miz hosting duties

The Miz then made me feel like, I was reading a Where's Wally book, from my childhood, because I couldn't find our host in the crowd.

WWE Womens Championship Rhea Ripley vs Liv Morgan

Ok. I know this is a hot take. I didn't like this, the story was the main focus, and it should be, because this match was a carwreck, that was unavoidable. It was a clunky mess, both ladies did manage to get it back on track, thanks to the interference of The Human Oven, this led to Liv hitting Rhea with two obLivions to put Rhea away, and retain her belt, but for me it was to late. The multiple counts of sexual innuendo made for an interesting finish, as that dirty rotten little p**** kissed Liv, and left with her, after he had cost Rhea her shot, to get back what she was forced to give up. Ok Oven, listen up mate, run, run as fast as your chicken tenders loving carcass can take you, because on Raw this Monday, you're going to get met with the chant of Mami's going to kill you. This pissed off Damien Priest, who went on anger mode, asking everyone in his faction, did you know this was going to happen? He then landed on Finn Balor, and he said. Nope. Not me mate. I had no idea. This would be a running theme throughout the evening.

Sami Zayn vs Bron Breakker Intercontinental Championship

Bron Breakker wrecked Sami Zayn, to become our new Intercontinental Champion. That's it, the match lasted less than 5 minutes, and it was perfect. WWE's pressentation of Breakker has been great. This. Was. A starmaking performance.

LA Knight vs Logan Paul WWE United States Championship

The only question I have about this match is this, with everything that has been said this week, did I have a lot of fun watching this match? Well. Yeeeeeeeeaaaaaaah. This. Was. Brilliant. From MGK acting as Logans security, Both men having fun with the announcers table. Logan pulling off a sick looking springboard moonsault, his titanium hand met Knights face on several occasions, this made me me think that Knight is The Terminator, because he just kept on coming, no matter what Logan threw at him, however, he was the master of his own victory. MGK handed Logan, his favoured brass knucks, after Knight had a fight with Logans Entourage, Logan tried to hit Knight with a buck shot lariot, but Knight had his number, as he reversed into his BFT finisher for the win, to become the new United States Champion.

Nia Jax vs Bayley WWE Womens Championship

I thought this ran at a better pace, than the previous womens match on the card, from Queen Nia taunting Bayley. Tiffany Stratton, trying to cash in her Pink Panther themed briefcase, to Nia, putting Bayley away with two powerbombs, and 3 eNialators to become our new Womens Champion. I liked this

Cm Punk vs Drew Mcintyre

This. Was, my match of the night, from the guest referee Seth Rollins, showcasing a bejazzled refs uniform, that even Beverly Goldberg would be proud of, to the match itself, which was a story driven fun ride, that has left wanting more, and the good thing is, that I think that's what's going to happen. The physicality was on point. Punk, and. Drew, laid everything out in order to make magic. Punk turned into John Mackenroe, after Seth Counted a two count, this led to the pair having a minor altercation, the bracelet that Drew stole from Punk would end up back in Punks hands, after he caught Seth wearing it. This would cause Punk to take his eye of the ball, Drew hit him with a claymore, for the win, and he takes back what he stole. This is a clear indication that this rivalry isn't over, this gave me real Bret vs Taker 1997 vibes, and I loved it. This screams Hell In A Cell. Bad Blood, me thinks.

Gunther vs Damien Priest WWE World Heavyweight Championship

This match, acted as a perfect examplication of, just how far these two have come, in order to get were they are today. This. Was. A physical war, that had me thinking, I could watch another ten more minutes of this match, after it ends. Gunthers chest got busted open the hardway, so he gave priest some lariots, that looked they sucked to take, because they must've felt, like he was being kissed by a freight train, however the act of betrayal, would rear its ugly head again. Finn Balor stopped a pin, after Priest, had. Gunther beaten, this would enforce the running theme of the show to continue, wrestlers taking their eye of the ball. Priest did just that. Gunther put him in a sleeper hold, that he managed to reverse, and turn the tide, by pinning him for a two count, this failed. Gunther then hit him two powerbombs, and a snug looking sleeper hold in order to get the win, and become, the new World Heavyweight Champion.

Aewsome Truth Segment

And just like that. It's time for some bad comedy, courtesy of Awesome Truth, having a bad back and forth with Atown Down Under, all of this, was terrible, and I cringed all throughout this segment, thankfully people, fear not, because everyone's favourite neighbourhood Jellyroll, was on hand to batter Theory with a chair, and give Waller, a chokeslam, and a five knuckle shuffle, because the hottest time of year to masterbate is the summer. Apparently their was over 57.000 fans in attandence for this. I smell bulls***.

WWE Universal Championship Cody Rhodes vs Solo Sikoa Bloodline Rules

The whole creative behind this was awesome, from Cody's entrance, the cameos from Ferro the dog, and of course Glock Anderson, who I was suprised was allowed in the building, considering the fact that, he's a lethal weapon, to the match itself. And my god, let me tell you. IT WAS AWESOME. Both men eyed each other up, at the beginning, as the mental game of chess began. The story of anything Solo, can do. Cody can do better, was echoed on full display, as they physically met each others match perfectly, this allowed the shenanigans to take a grip of the match, as Cody's mates. Kevin Owens, and. Randy Orton, came to take out the rest of. The Bloodline. Jakub Fatu got in on the act, and attacked Cody, he also got injured from a frogsplash, landing through an announcers table. Cody then hit Solo, with a Cody Cutter, from the air, and then it happened, an orchestral theme played throughout the stadium in Cleveland, and just like a Pheonix rising like a chizzled star, out walked Roman Reigns, he's back, he walked down to the ring, he gave Solo, a Superman punch, and a sphere and walked out, he gave cody a glance, and left. Cody hit Solo with a cross Rhodes, and retained his Championship.

Overview of WWE Summerslam 2024

Gunther vs Priest. Punk, and. Drew. Logan Paul getting his. The Human Oven turning on the hand that feeds him, to a returning Tribal chief, the in ring action was great, and I have to say. I'm excited for WWE going forward.

WWE Summerslam 2024 is a very high 9/10.

Smackdown Review 3.8.2024

Intro

Thursday night, when I got home from work, I decided to go  online, and see what's going on in the world of X, and I was greated by some of the worst opinions, that make the internet, a cesspool, of all things vile. I won't talk much about what Logan paul said, because. I think his opinions are vile, and unhelpful. I think education, and understanding, are key in these situations, because in order to be human, we have to act human. It's really not that difficult.

Smackdown

Cody Rhodes Segment

I liked all of this. Cody basked in the glory, that he has created, the fans love this man, and in return, he called out Solo Sikoa. The pair had a great promo dual. The chants of Solo sucks, and a what chant, clearly this pissed off the new Tribal Chief, he cut Cody off mid flow, after he told him, that when the cinema era of The Bloodline is over, the bells are going to ring. Solo tells him to stop waisting his time, and get to the point. Cody references his former employers, and puts over those, who have helped him, get were he is today. Solo said that Roman is weak, whilst he's strong, All throughout the segment, the air of Bloodline Rules, lingered in the air, because what happened at Mania, was referenced frequently. Solo put forward the challenge of another Bloodline Rules Match, Cody accepted, as the pack of hyenas gathered around the ring. Cody showed no fear, when he told them that he's not afraid of any of them, he called Solo a wannabe, as this brought the segment to an end.

Carmelo Hayes vs Andrade

This. Was. Excellent, the pace that was examplified by both men was great, and it helped give the match time to breathe. Andrade got the win by roll up.

Santos Escobar vs Apollo Crews

Santos Escobar, beat. Andrade in a solid showing, thanks to his Legado Delfantasma familia getting involved.

Logan Paul homecoming celebration

Logan came out, and was instantly booed out of the building. ( I wonder why ) He outright offends the LGBTQ+ community, and says that he is Cleveland, he lords this, his title defenses, and wealth over the fans in attendence, the only way he knows how to, with complete self awareness, he introduced the banner, that will hang from Cleveland Browns stadium, when he beats LA Knight at Summerslam, only to find, that its been defaced, with the word. Yeeeeeeeeaaaaaah, now I wonder who could have done such a thing? LA Knight then came out, he wastes no time, in telling Logan to get serious, because tomorrow he won't have his United States Championship. Knight reigned in logans fakeness, that even Nick Aldis could see through, because those people that Logan had with him screamed fake. Knight said that he was going to go find Logan a gift, and what was that gift, well, after he was seen heading backstage, and being less then impressed with Pretty Deadly's singing, he decided to give Logan the gift of Grand Theft Auto, because he nicked his prime inspired hummer. Logan was livid with this act of daylight robbery, but. I can't help but think that he deserved it. Like I said earlier I don't condone anything that logan has said this week. The fans were right to boo him.

Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn vs Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill

This match, for the WWE womens Tag Team Championships, was thrown out when Blair davenport got involved. What a waste of time.

Tiffany Stratton Segment

As a thank you for last week. Nia Jax had a special gift for her Princess. Tiffany Stratton, and it was a pink MITB Briefcase, it looked hideous. Piper Niven, and. Chelsea hated it. Ok Patrick, take that awful piece of trash out from your. WWEEuroshop basket, you can't afford, ok brain, will do.

DIY vs Tama Tonga and Jakub Fatu WWE Tag Team Championship Match

I liked all this, from. Tomasso Ciampa, and. Johnny Gargano, getting the walk through camera shot treatment, to. The Bloodline showing their dominance. Jakub Fatu, what more can I say about this guy, other than he's a star. Both him and Tama, powered on and won the belts, by battering DIY. Yes. I liked all of this, but. I don't like the fact that DIY have become transitonal champions.

Overview Of Friday Night Smackdown

I enjoyed this weeks dive into WWE's bluebrand, the in ring work went from bad to very good, whilst the promos, once again stole the show.

This weeks Friday Night Smackdown is a solid 8/10.

My Top 5 Celebrity Wrestling Matches I would love to see happen

Intro

Ok guys. It's a Friday night, i'm bored, and. I have a Fosters in my hand, so I'm going to have some fun, by writing wrestling nonsense, so enjoy my people.

5 Gordon Ramsey vs Jamie Oliver 

This, makes perfect sense, given all of the jibes, that these two have said about each other, over the years, this needs to be contested inside a Hell In a Cell, and the guest referee should be Charles Stiles, the guy from Mystery Diners. Ok if you've never seen Mystery Diners, it's a show that used to air on the food network, and don't get me wrong, it's trash, but its the kind of trash that makes sense, when you come back from the pub ( or bar for all you Americans ) at 2am, but my god, it's good fun to watch when your drunk.

4 Barrack Obama vs Kanye west

I don't know, but I would love to see this match, because it would be comedy, to watch, as Barrack schools this musical clown, special guest referee. Big Joe Biden, because he won't know where he is, the poor guy.

3 Toby Keith vs Ethan Hawke

I've always wondered, just what would happen, if the man who. Should've been a cowboy, had a fight with that layabout from the 1993 film Reality bites. Toby would win, because he aint as good as he once was, but he's as good as he ever was. Hawke wouldn't stand a chance. RIP Toby.

2 Donald Trump vs Chuck Norris

Ok, this speaks for itself, just imagine what Chuck would do if that orange reprobate, went ahead and built that wall. Norris would knock it down by looking at it, and he would  roundhouse kick that duck to the moon and back. Chuck Norris for President, hey look i'm a brit, and i'd vote for him.

1 Me vs Eamon Holmes

Ok, this is a tad obscure, but has to take the n01 spot, because my god this guy just pisses me off, if you live in the states, then you can escape this Manchester United loving idiot, us brits however, well that's a differant story, this is a man who i've seen at wrestling shows, being waited on, so what did he say on Good Morning Britain, the morning after Wrestlemania 33, he said that he hates wrestling, to millions of viewers. And then there is everything else that he has said on This Morning,  a UK morning magazine show, this man is a big jabroni. Ok I know i'm not a  celebrity, but I can imagine, right. Also Manchester United suck, up the Arsenal.

 Top 5 Summerslam Matches

Intro

Agh, yes the biggest party of the summer. Summerslam. This, is my favourite WWE PLE next to Wrestlemania, because, when I was a young fan. I would go round to my friends house, who had Sky TV, here in the UK, and watch this show, and it would act as the highlight to my Summer, next to the Reading Festival, and it never let me down, so here are some of my favourite matches.

5 Cm Punk vs Jeff Hardy TLC Match WWE World Heavyweight Championship 2009

This. Was, a match steaped in controversial reality. Jeff's struggles were put out there for the world to see, thanks to the leader of the Straight Edge Society. Cm Punk. Don't get me wrong. I don't like putting performers under microscopes like this, because the results can vary in a negative light, however, this match, was awesome, as an the underground wrestling darling, meshed well with an enigma, and the result, was an absolute classic.

4 Brock Lesnar vs Roman Reigns WWE Universal Championship 2022

Ok. Given everything that has gone on this year. I can understand why placing Brock on this list, would be looked at as controversial, but. I do think Brock, has had some great moments at this event, and I have to say, this is my favourite, because it's bat s*** crazy, to the point that, you could rewrite the theme to Clifford The Big Red Dog, around this match, but instead of the word, dog, replace it with the word tractor, and you catch my drift. I love this match, simply for the moment when, Paul Heyman, and. Roman Reigns went flying. Brock loves his Big Red Tractor, so he moved to Nashville City. PATRICK STOP SINGING THAT THEME. AAAAAGGGGGHHHHH.

3 HHH vs The Rock Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match 1998

By the time 1998 had rolled around, the concept of the Ladder Match had fallen stale, since its inception at Wrestlemania 10, but what these two individuals managed to do on this night, was redefine what it means to steal the show, this became the blueprint going forward, for how to craft the art of a Ladder Match, and make it a masterpiece. I loved it at the age of 11, and my opinion hasn't changed, 26 years later.

2 TLC The Hardy Boyz vs Edge and Christian vs The Dudley Boyz 2000

This, came just two years after The Rock and HHH, stole the show, at the same event. the then WWF, over the past year leading into this match had regained its focus, when it came to Tag Team Wrestling, their triple threat Ladder Match, at Wrestlemania 16, was a match of the year contender, but this shattered those illusions, and is an underrated classic, that doesn't get spoken much these days.

1 Bret The Hitman Hart vs The British Bulldog Intercontinental Champion 1992

Ok. I don't know were to begin with this match, other than it's a technical masterpiece, and even though I think these two did have better matches, afterwards in their careers, this remains, until this day a stonewall reminder, of how perserverance, can create magic, also i'm British, so i'm a tab biased.

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.

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.

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.

 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.

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.