offical wwe thread

[Hot Chocolate]

Not at all. I'm going to watch AEW and I hope they do well.

It's more frustration at ROH and NJPW. I've been following both promotions for years and this should be their momentum right now, but they blew it.

NJPW didn’t blow it they didn’t except fair weather fans to jump ship because they Elite didn’t want to job to anyone that isn’t in their personal click. Good riddance because NJPW has been on fire since they don’t have to cater to Omega, the Bucks( who should have lost to the Lucha Bros but the Bucks job to no one ) and them trying to make fetch happen with Adam Page’s boring ass

 

[famicommander]

NJPW didn’t blow it they didn’t except fair weather fans to jump ship because they Elite didn’t want to job to anyone that isn’t in their personal click. Good riddance because NJPW has been on fire since they don’t have to cater to Omega, the Bucks( who should have lost to the Lucha Bros but the Bucks job to no one ) and them trying to make fetch happen with Adam Page’s boring ass

What are you talking about? Omega put over Okada and Naito multiple times. The Bucks lost clean to the Briscoes, Roppongi 3K, the Addiction, Best Friends, War Machine, etc.

The Bucks flat out said that NJPW didn't pay them well and that's the only reason they left. ROH was paying them more despite NJPW being at least 3X bigger on the global scale.

And NJPW will never be as popular as AEW already is after one show in the US.

 

[JoeAwesome]

NJPW didn’t blow it they didn’t except fair weather fans to jump ship because they Elite didn’t want to job to anyone that isn’t in their personal click. Good riddance because NJPW has been on fire since they don’t have to cater to Omega, the Bucks( who should have lost to the Lucha Bros but the Bucks job to no one ) and them trying to make fetch happen with Adam Page’s boring ass

It struck my wife as odd (up to the main event) that the Elite (and you can count SCU in this) all won.

 

[neo_X7]

And NJPW will never be as popular as AEW already is after one show in the US.

AEW is blowing up the internet because.

1) The PPV so over hyped on the internet it got WWE fanboys to notice. The battle royal was not great, the ROH/NJPW MSG battle royal was better so was the ALL IN one.

2) WWE fanboys did not realize that there was wrestling out side of WWE besides fat white trash rednecks in a high school gym. Because you know that is all Triple H said the indepent wrestling scene was for years so it must be true. Even though ROH trained and polished wrestlers for NXT for years since the performance center couldn't produce anybody with any longevity.

3) Since Jon Moxley aka Dean decided jumped ship to a so called t shirt company it makes WWE fan boys feel safe about liking this new AEW thing. Now every WWE fanboy on every wrestling forum is a damn super smart mark trying to tell me and the world how this new group is going to change the world even though this same group was doing the same shit in ROH for the past three years.

 

[neo_X7]

The Heart Foundation gives tips for playing Samurai Showdown 2.

 

[famicommander]

Teddy Hart should legitimately be in jail or a mental institution. That dude is completely fucking bonkers.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Super Show-Down Results: 6-7-19

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's real-time report).

(1) SETH ROLLINS vs. BARON CORBIN – WWE Title match

Rollins came out first with his ribs taped. The announcers speculated on how injured he is going into this match. Then as Corbin came out, the announcers introduced the Arabic announce team. Corbin requested his usual elaborate ring introduction. Cole asked if Corbin wins, would Brock Lesnar look to cash in against Corbin. Graves complimented Seth for even showing up, but he said he is a human being and he can only take so much pain. Corbin attacked Seth’s ribs at the start. Seth writhed in pain.

With both men down at 6:00, fans clapped. They both stood and exchanged punches. They fought at ringside, with Seth diving through the ropes at Corbin twice. Seth landed a sunset flip for a two count back in the ring. When Seth went for another flying move through the ropes, Corbin elbowed him out of mid-air, then scored a two count seconds later back in the ring. Corbin yelled at the ref for not counting fast enough in an exaggerated fashion. Corbin landed a Deep Six for a near fall. Corbin got in the face of the referee and yelled some more. He then grabbed a chair. The ref ordered Corbin to get rid of it. Corbin yelled at him to stop telling him how to do his job. The ref shoved him back and asked who he thinks he is. Seth rolled up Corbin from behind to score the three count.

WINNER: Seth in 11:00 to retain the WWE Title. (*1/2)

One of the weakest WWE Title matches you’ll see, and what a bad finish. They’re protecting Corbin with that finish so fans can have months more of this feud.

-Corbin gave Seth an End of Days after the match. Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman walked out with the MITB briefcase in hand. Heyman tripped entering the ring and dropped the briefcase. Lesnar was briefly distracted, then swung a chair at Seth in the ring, but Seth gave Lesnar a l0w-blow. Cole said that is reminiscent of WrestleMania and how Seth won the title. Seth picked up the chair and hit Lesnar with it. He hit him a second, third, and fourth time. Lesnar writhed in pain. Seth asked, “How does it feel, you son of a bitch!” He hit Lesnar several more times. There were a group of teens enthusiastically cheering Seth, but otherwise not a ton of crowd reaction. Seth then gave Lesnar a running stomp onto the briefcase. Cole said he believes Lesnar had ever intention of cashing in tonight, but Heyman dropping the briefcase caused enough of a distraction to give Seth an opening.

If that’s all they do with Lesnar and the MITB at this event, it extends Lesnar’s MITB storyline indefinitely. There’s also a chance Lesnar shows up later to cash in against the winner of Kofi Kingston vs. Dolph Ziggler. Will Heyman tripping be a storyline development of a rift between Heyman and Lesnar? I doubt it. The announcers haven’t asked why Lesnar delayed cashing in on Monday in order to do it here, especially in light of it failing tonight when his opening seemed wide then compared to this show.

(2) “DEMON” FINN BALOR vs. ANDRADE – Intercontinental Title match

During a wide shot of the stadium during Balor’s ring entrance, it showed massive sections of the stadium seating empty or blocked off, and a relatively small number of floor seats overall surrounding the ring (although that could be largely due to the structure surrounding the ring causing massive blindspots. That must be a case for fans in the stadium. There have to be fans in the building who can barely see the ring because of the pillars of the structure over the ring.

Balor eventually landed a top rope double stomp to the back of Andrade’s back and neck for a two count. The screen noted that #WWESSD was the no. 1 trend worldwide on Twitter. Andrade came back with a hammerlock DDT for a near fall. Graves and Cole were excited and popped. The fans did not much to the move or the kick-out. Some kids began chanting “This is awesome!” for ten seconds. Balor landed a top rope face-first DDT and then landed the Coup de Grace for the clean win.

WINNER: Balor in 12:00 to retain the WWE Intercontinental Title. (**)

Felt like a “going through the motions” house show match. Nothing wrong with it, but utterly uninspired and forgettable.

(3) SHANE MCMAHON (w/Drew McIntyre) vs. ROMAN REIGNS

A profusely sweating Shane McMahon entered the ring, looking winded. He pointed at Greg Hamilton who then did his elaborate ring introduction. Drew made a separate ring entrance next. Then Reigns made his ring entrance. Shane charged at Reigns when Drew distracted him at the bell. Shane threw knees and punches and kicks in the corner. Shane threw Reigns to the floor, then distracted the ref as Drew took a cheap shot at Reigns at ringside. Shane threw Reigns back into the ring. He choked Reigns and then elbowed him in the head and delivered a side Russian leg sweep for a two count. Zero crowd response.

Shane settled into a mid-match chinlock. Reigns stood and drove his shoulder into Shane in the corner, then connected with a big boot. With Shane flat on his back, Reigns set up a Superman Punch. Shane countered with a mid-air counter, chop blocking Reigns. He scored a two count. (Reigns opponents should take note that Shane figured out the counter to the Superman Punch after all of these years.) Shane applied triangle choke of sorts mid-ring. Reigns lifted Shane and powered him down to break it, then scored a quick two count. “What a match!” exclaimed Cole.

Shane rolled to the floor. A fan reached out and patted Shane on the back. A security guy walked up and instructed them to back off. Drew yanked Reigns hard into the security barricade, but Reigns countered by ramming Drew into the ringpost. Reigns then landed a Superman Punch on Drew. Shane leaped toward Reigns off the ring apron, but Reigns punched him out of mid-air. Shane kicked the middle rope into Reigns’s crotch, then speared Reigns. Reigns kicked out at two-and-a-half. Shane kicked Reigns in the corner, then backed away at instructions from ref Charles Robinson. Shane climbed to the top rope to set up a Coast to Coast, but Reigns ran over and Superman Punched him off the top rope. When Reigns made the cover, Shane rolled his shoulder up at two. A “C.M. Punk!” chant broke out. Shane stood. Reigns signaled for his spear, but Shane kicked him in the face. Reigns punched Shane, who bumped into the ref. Drew then entered and hit the Claymore. Shane made the cover and scored the pin. Drew put Shane on his shoulders. Shane smiled and raised his arms in the air as pyro blasted behind them. Fireworks blasted into the sky above the stadium.

WINNER: Shane in 9:00. (1/4*)

A ridiculous match. The finish wasn’t the worst part, as it largely put over the Claymore Kick, but how did Shane hold his own that long against Reigns even with Drew’s interference. It was too much. And the match was awful.

(4) LUCHA HOUSE PARTY (Lince Dorado & Gran Metalik & Kalisto) vs. LARS SULLIVAN

After the LHP ring entrance, they aired a snippet of his interview earlier in the week. Graves said getting a glimpse into the mind of Lars was downright terrifying. Graves said the fact that Lars has been seen as and referred to as a freak has boiled over into the destruction they see in WWE. LHP put up a fight, but Lars kept battering them and cutting short any momentum. Eventually Lars climbed to the to rope to dive onto Kalisto. Dorado and Metalik knocked him off the top rope. The ref DQ’d them.

WINNER: Sullivan in 5:00. (3/4*)

-LHP triple-teamed Lars afterward, then fled a minute later before he could get revenge. Lars sat up and snarled. He began to pursue them. They turned and decided to attack. Lars backdropped a charging Metalik, then attacked the other two. “Flat out destruction by The Freak,” Cole said.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Super Show-Down Results: 6-7-19

(5) RANDY ORTON vs. TRIPLE H

Orton came to the ring first. Then Triple H came out on a motorcycle. Cole said you know it’s a “WrestleMania-calliber event” when Triple H comes to the ring with a “badass entrance like that.” Renee said you can feel the intensity, and a match like this can change the electricity in the stadium. Some fans stood and chanted “NXT! NXT!” Cole said tonight isn’t about NXT, it’s about competing Orton.

They circled each other to start. Graves said this is two of the best competitors of all time doing battle. They locked up and struggled for leverage. Orton forced Triple H into the corner. Hunter reversed Orton. They stared each other down. Hunter applied a wristlock mid-ring. Fans applauded the early grappling exchanges. Cole said Orton is sometimes an afterthought when people talk about the greats of this era despite winning 13 world titles. They fought to ringside. Cole said Triple H is focusing on Orton’s shoulder because Orton has a history of shoulder injuries in his career. Orton fought back and dropped Triple H on the announce table. Cole said a corner of one of their monitors jabbed Hunter in the kidney area when he landed. Orton then whipped Hunter into the ringside steps. Orton settled into his obligatory mid-match chinlock.

Triple H came back with a high knee a few minutes later. He went for a Pedigree, but Orton countered it. He catapulted Triple H into the corner, and Hunter hit the ringpost, but then fired at Orton with a sudden clothesline for a near fall. A few minutes later Orton pounded the mat and signaled for the RKO. When Triple H stood, he blocked Orton’s attempt and then hit a spinebuster for a near fall. Triple H settled into a crossface mid-ring. Cole said Orton had nowhere to go, but would he tap out. Cole wondered if the sweat from the heat would affect Hunter’s grip. Orton reached the bottom rope to force a break.

Hunter stood first. He went after Orton’s arm, but Orton blocked it and went for an RKO. Hunter escaped and kicked Orton, then set up a Pedigree again. Orton backdropped out of it, then nailed the RKO for a nice pop and a near fall. Cole said they both look exhausted. Orton stood and looked down at a fallen Triple H. Cole said he looked ready to execute The Punt, a callback to a ruthless era of Orton when he became known as The Legend Killer. Orton went for it. Triple H grabbed his leg to block it, then hit a Pedigree for a near fall. The crowd popped. They went to cutaways of fans reacting with shock. A “This is awesome!” chant broke out. Cole called it a “tremendous show of respect” from the WWE fans in Jeddah. Orton set up a slam of Hunter on the announce table, but Hunter reversed it and slammed Orton four times in a row on the table. Cole said, The rage of Triple H is coming out!” Graves said Orton “has awakened the devil inside The Game.” Back in the ring Hunter charged at Hunter, but Orton caught him with an RKO for the win.

WINNER: Orton in 26:00. (**3/4)

Needlessly long, although one minute under my predicted over/under. The crowd ate it up, especially the second half that had a lot more action than the first half. The finish was the right finish.

-They went to the announcers at ringside. Cole said earlier this week when all the WWE Superstars got on a 747 to fly from San Antonio, Tex. to Frankfurt, Germany for a stopover before getting to Jeddah, Truth got off the jet to make a phone call and get fresh air. They showed a clip of Mahal scoring a three count to win the title with a schoolboy. Then the airplane took off, and six hours later 39,000 feet above the sea, Jinder fell asleep in his chair. Truth went looking for him and found him under a blanket and scored a three count to regain his title. Jinder woke up and yelled that he asleep. The ref said that didn’t matter. Truth ran upstairs in the 747 to escape from wrestlers chasing him to the top. Truth hid a bathroom. There happened to be a camera in the bathroom to film him talking to the 24/7 Title belt.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Super Show-Down Results: 6-7-19

(6) BOBBY LASHLEY vs. BRAUN STROWMAN

As Lashley posed, Graves said he has the type of physique that makes you want to give up going to the gym. Graves said Strowman is like a superhero walking around the streets of Jeddah. He said it’s been fascinating watching fans react to seeing him since they arrived in Jeddah. Graves said Lashley trains in a high altitude in Denver, Colorado, so he has an advantage over Strowman the longer the match goes. A screen graphic said it feels like 100 degrees in the ring.

Braun no-sold an early shoulder tackle by Lashley. Braun brushed off his shoulder and told him he has to do better than that. Lashley offered a test of strength. Braun accepted. Lashley kicked Strowman to try to gain an advantage, but Strowman lifted Lashley. Lashley leapfrogged Strowman. They collided. Strowman rebounded and checked Lashley to the mat, then splashed him in the corner. Lashley moved on another corner splash and lifted Strowman and delivered a running powerslam for a near fall.

Lashley took control for a while, uttering Strowman methodically and then settled into a chinlock. Strowman came back with a spinebuster and two shoulder tackles. Lashley rolled to ringside. Strowman pursued him and charged at him, taking him down with a running check. He took another lap and knocked Lashley down again, then threw him into the ring to beat the ref’s count. He knocked Lashley down with a forearm to the chest. “Get these hands!” chants a few fans in the crowd. Strowman played to them, then landed a powerslam for a near fall. Lashley avoided a shoulder charge in the corner. Braun tumbled to ringside. Lashley went after him with a running check of his own, knocking Strowman hard into the ringside barricade. Lashley suplexed Braun on the steel ramp.

Lashley climbed to the top rope, but Strowman launched him to the mat. Then he gave him a snap powerslam and a running powerslam or the win

WINNER: Strowman in 8:00. (**1/4)

Solid powermove match start to finish, and considering the 100 degree condition, a markable effort for these two to keep up that pace. It was the right finish, yet I believe these two could have been kept apart and under different circumstances down the line, this could have meant a lot more.

(7) KOFI KINGSTON (w/Xavier Woods) vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – WWE Title match

Ziggler came out first. As Kofi and Xavier came to the ring, Graves wondered what Saudis think about pancakes. Cole called the WWE Title belt “prestigious” and “the most important championship in the world today.” (Is that forecasting Lesnar cashing in against Kofi because that title is “more important”?) Kofi leapfrogged Ziggler and then landed a flying forearm in the corner. Ziggler avoided a corner splash and landed a dropkick, good for a one count. Ziggler controlled the match for a few minutes. Xavier started a “New… Day Rocks” chant that didn’t last long and was mostly sloppy claps. Kofi came back with an S.O.S. several minutes later. Kofi dove backwards and knocked Ziggler down with a grazing shot. Ziggler then kicked Xavier. Back in the ring, when Ziggler rolled up Kingston, he stumbled toward Xavier, who kicked Ziggler. Kofi then finished Ziggler with a Trouble in Paradise for the win.

WINNER: Kingston in 10:00 to retain the WWE Title. (**1/2)

Decent, but entirely skippable.

(8) 50-MAN BATTLE ROYAL

As the wrestlers walked out in a cluster, Graves said winning this could open up doors to championship opportunities later. Miz got his own music. Elias came out with his guitar and strummed a bit. He said he has a pre-celebratory song dedicated to the 49 losers awaiting his arrival in the ring. He asked everyone to silence their cell phones and hold their applause and shut their mouths. Boos. He didn’t really both to even try to rhyme. Miz heard enough and attacked him at ringside and threw him into the ring. Among rapid-fire early eliminations were Karl Anderson, Eric Young, Humberto Carillo, Heath Slater, Brian Kendrick, No Way Jose, Drew Gulak, and Tony Nese. Graves said an underdog could easily win by laying low until the ring was cleared. The announcers talked about losing considerable water weight.

Cole said after an early thinning, eliminations had slowed down. They noted that Akam was back from his knee injury. The Vikings Raiders battled AOP. The Raiders eliminated AOP pretty easily. Renee said she’d like to watch that match-up another time. They showed Titus O’Neal scoot out from under the ring. He snuck into the ring and went at the Vikings.

Cole noted it was 12:08 in the morning in Jeddah. Rowan eliminated Otis, then claw slammed Xavier and dropped him onto Otis on the floor. It was down to Cedric Alexander, Cesaro, Robert Roode, Rusev, Miz, Samoa Joe, Ali, Mansoor, Ricochet, and Sin Sara. Cesaro pressed Miz and nearly eliminated him but Miz slipped free and then kicked away at Cesaro’s chest. He alternated kicking Elias, too. The crowd was into it. Cesaro then tossed Miz over the top rope, but Miz landed the ring apron. Elias then knocked Miz to the floor. Cesaro surveyed the situation and rested as Joe stood up and squared off against Ricochet, Ali, and Mansoor. Elias and Cesaro joined in for a three-on-three battle between the remaining babyfaces and heels. Ali and Ricochet doubled on Cesaro, but then Joe intervened and clubbed both of them. He tossed Ali over. Ali hell onto the top rope and stayed legal. Ali tried to suplex Joe over the top rope. Ricochet joined in. They got him over and to the floor. Fans popped (or what qualifies as a pop here). Cesaro eliminated Ali and Ricochet. Mansoor then knocked Cesaro to the floor. It came down to Elias vs. Mansoor. Elias got early control with an attack from behind. Mansoor super kicked Elias and then tried to eliminate him. Elias reversed him, but Mansoon hung onto to the top rope and then backdropped Elias to win. The fans were elated. He celebrated win the crowd with the home country fans including family members.

WINNER: Mansoor.

If anyone ever doubts there’s a hometown advantage in sports, point them to this miraculous outcome. By WWE math, he had a mere 2 percent chance to win, yet he did it. As for match quality, it was a below average battle royal, but not the worst.

-Saxton interviewed Mansoor what it felt like to win the most prestigious battle royal in WWE history. Mansoor looked to the crowd and they cheered for him. Monsoor said he doesn’t have the words to describe how important that moment is to him “or to us!” He said one year ago at the Greatest Royal Rumble, he was a WWE prospect and he stood in this stadium in Jeddah and he didn’t know where he’d end up. He said he was just a rookie with a dream to make it as a WWE Superstar and represent his country proudly all over the world. “You deserve it!” chanted the fans.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Super Show-Down Results: 6-7-19

(9) GOLDBERG vs. UNDERTAKER

Some fans chanted “Goldberg!” as he made his way to the stage from his locker room. He came out bleeding from his forehead, presumably from head-butting the door, which could be heard before he existed the room. We got deep into the Goldberg song before he even made it onto the stage. Cole talked about him having won the WCW Title, WWE Universal Title, and WWE Title. Graves said this match taking place is surreal in and of itself. More “Goldberg” chants to the beat of his music. Cole talked about his “173 and 0” undefeated record. Then a lengthy Undertaker entrance took place. When he entered the ring, Cole said he’s about to face Goldberg for the first time. Formal ring introductions took place next. Graves said he didn’t sense any sign of fear in Goldberg’s expression, which might be a first for an Undertaker opponent. Goldberg did his throat slice gesture. Taker punched him. Goldberg speared Taker immediately. “This is unbelievable!” shouted Graces. Goldberg speared Taker a second time and scored a near fall. Taker sat up. He used the ropes to stand. Goldberg whipped him against the ropes, but Taker grabbed Goldberg’s throat and set up a chokeslam. Goldberg powered out and hip tossed Taker into a kneebar attempt.

Goldberg whipped Undertaker into the corner, then charged. Taker moved and Goldberg hit the post hard. He came away bleeding heavily from his forehead. There was a small puddle of blood on the canvas. Goldberg’s face was soon covered in bright red blood. Renee said Goldberg’s wife and young son are present, but don’t want to see this. Taker punched away at Goldberg. Taker armbarred Goldberg, then climbed to the top rope walk. He leaped off with a forearm to the back of Goldberg’s neck. Taker signaled for a choke slam. Goldberg staggered and leaned over the top rope. Graves said Goldberg might be out on his feet. Taker then chokeslammed Goldberg. Then he did the throat-slice gesture and set up a tombstone. He delivered and scored a believable near fall. (That was payback for Taker getting to kick out of two spears early.) Graves said nobody believes it. Renee said there was an “eerie silence” in the stadium.

Taker punched away at Goldberg in the corner. They collided mid-ring. Fans chanted “This is awesome!” They stood and exchanged punches mid-ring. Taker delivered snake eyes, but Goldberg fired back with a spear, the third of the match. He signaled for the Jackhammer and then delivered, dropping Taker on his head in the process. Graves said he didn’t get all of it, as he didn’t land on Taker in the process. Goldberg talked with the ref, then rolled onto Taker for a near fall. Goldberg stood and played to the crowd. Taker grabbed the middle rope and didn’t move much. Goldberg picked him up for a tombstone, but fell backwards. Taker got up and chokeslammed Goldberg with half the usual lift, then got the three. Taker sat up and looked disgusted with the way the final minutes of the match went and perhaps feeling a bit lucky to be okay. Zero sense of satisfaction with victory. Taker stood as his music played and he struck one of his poses. Cole said there might not be many more of these moments, so savor it when you can.

WINNER: Undertaker in 9:00. (1/4*)

That was more ambitious than was probably advisable. Never smooth, but it just fell apart at the end. They’re fortunate to be okay. The sloppy Jackhammer, botched Tombstone reversal spot, and half-high chokeslam for the anticlimactic finish.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Absolutely nothing worth going out of your way to watch. The first six minutes of the main event was perhaps the most “must-see” for a variety of reasons – the novelty of it, mostly. Otherwise, the heat and perhaps general karma kept this from being anything more than a two-star lethargic affair that merely set up rematches for the world title matches in two weeks in air conditioned circumances.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Stomping Grounds PPV Results: 6-23-19

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Keller's real-time report).

(1) BECKY LYNCH vs. LACEY EVANS – WWE Smackdown Title match

Lacey got early advantage including working over Becky’s ribs with a wrenching move around the ringpost. Becky came back with a Disarm her eventually, but Evans rolled through and scored a one count. Becky held on, but Lacey quickly grabbed the ropes to face a break. Lacey then went on the offense. After Lacey took out a tissue to wipe her underarms of sweat, she threw it onto Becky. Becky shoved it right back into Lacey’s mouth with a Mandible Claw. Yuck. Becky gave Lacey an Becksploder Suplex for a two count, then went for a legdrop off the second rope. Evans moved to avoid it and then landed a cutter for a near fall. When Lacey kicked the bottom rope in frustration, Becky applied a sudden Disarm Her and really wrenched it on. Lacey tapped almost immediately.

WINNER: Lynch in 12:00 to retain the Smackdown Title. (**)

This was the right finish for sure. Lacey is a tremendous personality – although polarizing – within a Vince McMahon style of presenting wrestling. She isn’t ready for the big time yet in terms of her ring work. She still seems to consciously be planning moves before doing them instead of flowing through the match. Becky really carried her here. Their work on house shows was key to making their PPV matches watchable.

(2) THE NEW DAY (Big E & Xavier Woods) vs. SAMI ZAYN & KEVIN OWENS

Sami and KO were aggressive at the start and scored a near fall after a senton splash off the top rope. The announcers complimented them for their early aggression. They isolated Xavier for a long time until over six minutes in. He eventually hot-tagged Big E. Big E tagged Xavier back in and then Xavier lifted Big E onto his shoulders, but struggled because of the long beatdown, which the announcers acknowledged. Xavier then dropped Big E with a splash onto Sami, who kicked out. Sami then shoved Big E into the ropes, who then kicked Xavier by mistake. Sami then connected with a Helluva Kick. Owens landed a Pop-Up Powerbomb for a near fall, which Big E broke up. Big E speared through the ropes and knocked Zayn =to the floor. Ko then gave Xavier, who was on the ropes, a Stunner and scored the three count.

WINNERS: Owens & Sami in 11:00. (***)

They really had the crowd worked up for the hot-tag and Big E’s comeback. I think that was a needed credibility boost for Sami & KO to get the win here. It crossed my mind that a loss like this could be planting a seed for a heel turn down the line for Big E or Xavier if they start coming up short in matches when teaming.

(3) SAMOA JOE vs. RICOCHET – U.S. Title match

They began to engage in a test of strength at the start. Joe popped Ricochet in the face on a fake-out as he was about to lock-up. Ricochet began another test of strength, but this time ducked Joe’s attempt to punch him. He then hit a flurry of offense including a dropkick that send Joe rolling to ringside. He went for an early sidekick, but Joe avoided him and then shoved him hard into the ring apron. Graves said that turned the complexion of the match right around. Renee talked about Joe’s killer instinct. He gave Ricochet a hard urinage and then a hard chop to the chest. Cole talked about the history of the U.S. Title including Harley Race as the first champ in 1975. Graves said Joe is motivated to be a WWE Hall of Famers and seen as one of the best of all-time. Joe landed an enzuigiri and then settled into a chinlock. Joe yanked Ricochet’s hands off the ropes and turned it into a powerbomb. They showed a hard side elbow to the skull of Ricochet in slo-mo. It looked stiff. Graves said he’s not sure if Ricochet wasn’t knocked out briefly. Joe then applied a head twist mid-ring.

Joe chopped Ricochet, but Ricochet surprised him with two enzuigiris. The slo-mo replay on one of them showed it was a stiff. Both were slow to get up. Ricochet took Joe down with a head scissors and then climbed to the top ope and hit a flying forearm. Joe rolled to the floor. Ricochet then landed a flying twisting body press over the top rope to the floor. Back in the ring he landed a springboard moonsault for a two count. A fan held up a sign in the second row that said “Resurrect Ascension.” Joe came back with a snap powerslam for a believable near fall. They stood and exchanged chops. Ricochet seemed more weakened than Joe. Joe hit a German suplex and then flipped Ricochet hard with a clothesline for a believable near fall. Ricochet blocked a Urinage attempt and went for a kick, but Joe flipped him over in a really cool spot. He then applied the Coquina Clutch. Ricochet climbed over the ropes and snapped Joe neck-first over the top rope to force a break. Cool escape sequence. Ricochet then went for a top rope 630, but Joe moved. Ricochet landed on his feet and then countered Joe’s clothesline and kneed him. Then he launched off the top again with a 630 for a clean three count. Ricochet celebrated in a big way.

WINNER: Ricochet in 13:00 to capture the U.S. Title. (***1/2)

That was really good. I mean, for a 13 minute match, they told a really good story in several chapters, and Joe’s power and Ricochet’s athletic creatively and strong bumps just added up to a match that overdelivered it’s timeslot.

-Backstage Seth, Charlotte, Zack Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Carmella, and Heavy Machinery were there to greet him. Triple H also greeted him.

If you’re wondering why they did that, it was to get Triple H on TV congratulating an NXT alum. It wasn’t because they thought it’d be a good idea otherwise, as I’m skeptical if Triple H weren’t scheduled to be part of that if they would have bothered to do it. By the way, that was the babyface NXT version of Triple H, not the heel main roster Authority Figure version in case you’re trying to chart at home Triple H’s various personalities.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Stomping Grounds PPV Results: 6-23-19

(4) DANIEL BRYAN & ROWAN vs. HEAVY MACHINERY (Otis & Tucker) – WWE Smackdown Tag Team Title match

During Heavy Machinery’s ring entrance, Phillips mentioned Tucker grew up “just down the road” in Hubbard, Oregon. Graves gave him a hard time because it’s two hours away. When Bryan came out, Phillips said at least Bryan is from the same state they’re in. “God, you’re bad a geography!” he said. He seemed more angry than one should have been in that situation. They let other announce teams introduce themselves on camera including a Funaki appearance. Tons of crowd heat early, including a “Let’s Go Bryan!” chant as the bell rang followed by a loud “Yes” chant. Fan also chanted “Please recycle” and “Drive a Prius.” This probably wasn’t the best event to have them against an emerging babyface team who are trying to get over. Otis shoved Bryan down hard and then flexed Lex Luger style. Graves said Tucker is used to getting booed since he was booed by his parents.

Bryan landed some Yes Kicks, but Otis came back by pressing Bryan above his head and dropping him behind him. Then Otis lifted Bryan for a suplex, Tucker tagged in, and Tucker took over the suplex and then finally dropped back with impact. He settled into a side headlock. Tucker gave Bryan a hard clothesline. Rowan blind tagged in and took Tucker down. Bryan and Rowan took over for a few minutes. Graves said he could see Heavy Machinery some day becoming Smackdown Tag Team Champions, but he said they need more seasoning. Rowan landed a splash for a two count. He complained to the referee and showed frustration. He raked Tucker’s eyes. Tucker caught a charging Rowan with a boot, then side-stepped him as he went shoulder-first into the ringpost. He hot-tagged Otis, and the fans booed as he went to work on Bryan with a couple takedowns and then a spinning bodyslam. He played to the crowd and they booed. Bryan came back with a running dropkick in the corner. And another On a third attempt, Otis caught him and delivered a sitout powerbomb for a near fall. Bryan avoided a Vader Bomb out of the corner by Otis.

Bryan landed a string of Yes Kicks which the crowd yelled long to. Otis began absorbing them and no-selling them. He then delivered an overhead suplex that launched Bryan. He splashed Bryan in the corner next. Bryan flat back collapsed. Otis looked around and then landed his signature elbowdrop. Then he catapulted Tucker into Bryan for a powerslam for a near fall, broken up by Rowan. Rowan kicked Tucker out of the ring, then returned to his corner. Bryan came back with some roundkicks. Tucker ducked one and then side slammed Bryan. He climbed to the top rope and went for a moonsault. Bryan rolled out of the way. Tucker crawled over and tagged in Otis as Bryan also tagged in Rowan. The announcers hyped up this battle of two behemoths. They took turns charging into one another. Neither sold for the other. Bryan blind-tagged in. Otis caught Rowan mid-air and powerslammed him. They set up their Compactor finisher, but Bryan pulled the rope down and Tucker fell to the floor. Bryan, who was legal, launched off the rope with a knee to Otis, but when he ran the ropes, Tucker punched him. Tucker then quickly climbed to the top rope and leaped onto Rowan on the floor. Tucker showed fire, then re-entered the ring, but Bryan small packaged him fro the win.

WINNERS: Bryan & Rowan in 15:00 to retain the Smackdown Tag Team Titles. (***3/4)

That was a blast start to finish. A standout tag team match. Bryan and Rowan helped move Heavy Machinery to another level even in losing. Their sequences and the whole story of the match played effectively into all four of their personalities.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Stomping Grounds PPV Results: 6-23-19

(5) BAYLEY vs. ALEXA BLISS (w/Nikki Cross) – WWE Smackdown Title match

During the ring entrance for Bliss, Phillips matter-of-factly said Bliss was a Raw wrestler as if it was normal for a Raw wrestler to challenge for the Smackdown Title. less got a mixed response, but mostly boos, during formal ring introductions. Bayley got a police response with some boos. Bliss shoved Bayley into the corner and didn’t break right away. The ref scolded her and she screeched, “I know!” Bayley took over with a running snake eyes and a quick two count. Graves asked why Nikki should be doubting anything about Bliss. Saxton said, “Have you seen Bliss’s career? Are we just going to put blindfolds on?” Somehow Graves turned that into a dig about Saxton being single. There were dueling chants for Bayley and Bliss. Bliss settled into a long headlock. (Graves mispronounced “asterisks” and said “aster-icks.” Yes, he’s hardly alone, but you know if he actually knew better and someone else messed that up, he’d be all over them with self-righteous mean-spirited sounding criticism.)

Bliss slapped Bayley and gloated. Bayley fired back with a clothesline and scored a two count. She stomped away aggressively at Bliss and boos could be heard. She landed an elbow, but Bliss came back with a right as Bayley charged her. Bayley came back right away, but mouthed off to Nikki at ringside. When she leaped off the ropes, Bliss moved. Bayley blocked a DDT and hit a running knee to the side of Bliss’s head. At ringside, Bliss yanked Bayley’s shoulder into the ringpost. She scored a soft two count in the ring. Bliss then applied armbars on Bayley for a couple of minutes. Bayley came back with a sunset bomb. Nikki checked on Bliss at ringside. Bayley dove through the ropes and tackled Nikki, when Bliss shoved Nikki into the target zone. Bliss then shoved Bayley into the ringside steps. Bliss gave Bayley a sunset bomb on the floor. She yelled at Bayley, then threw her into the ring. She set up Twisted Bliss, but Nikki entered the ring to go after Bayley. The ref ordered her out. Bayley stood and tried to set up a move, but Bliss shoved her down. Bliss then went for Twisted Blis, but Bayley lifted her knees and then she hit the Bayley-to-Belly for the win. Bliss was distraught afterward and Nikki was fuming mad as she consoled Nikki.

WINNER: Bayley in 11:00 to retain the Smackdown Title. (**3/4)

A good match. It seems the story here is Nikki doesn’t realize Bliss shoved her into the path of Bayley, and Bliss isn’t upset at Nikki for entering when she did because she knows she’s the one who caused Nikki to be angry with Bayley. It’s a bit a stretch to try to make sense of everyone’s motivations, but it didn’t seem Bliss was upset with Nikki nor was Nikki wise to Bliss’s actions.)

(6) ROMAN REIGNS vs. DREW MCINTYRE (w/Shane McMahon)

Reigns came out to a mixed reaction. The Raw announce team called this inter-brand match. They brawled at ringside. Then they entered the ring and the bell rang. Reigns clotheslined Drew over the top rope, then dove over the top rope. He sailed so far, he almost overshot Drew completely. He then chased after Shane who fled into the crowd. Reigns pursued him. Reigns leaped back over the ringside barricade, but Drew intercepted him mid-air with a punch. Drew took over for a long stretch, including interference from Shane at one point. Fans chanted “Let’s Go Roman! / Roman Sucks!” with the usual different pitch for each chant (women/kids vs. men).

Reigns finally made a comeback and didn’t get much reaction as he clotheslined Drew a few times. He looked down at Shane and mouthed something to him, then turned and punched away at Drew as the fans counted along to ten. He delivered a big boot to Drew’s face. He signaled for a Superman Punch. Women ad kids cheered. He delivered a Superman Punch to Shane on the ring apron instead. He went after Shane at ringside, then fended off Drew. Drew avoided a drive-by and then catapulted Reigns face-first into the ringside table. Drew threw Reigns back into the ring and gave him a chokeslam for a very near fall. Drew delivered a superplex a minute later for a very near fall. No pop for the Reigns kickout. (Graves also thinks “heighdth” is a word instead of “height.”) Reigns avoided a Claymore Kick and used a backslide for a two count. Drew then hit the Glasgow Kiss to drop Reigns again. Drew leaped off the top rope, but was met with a Superman Punch. Reigns scored a two count. Both were slow to get up.

Roman signaled for his spear, but Drew kicked him in the face and delivered another headbutt. Reigns fired back with a sudden spear for a two count. Shane yanked the ref out of the ring, although he was just a tad late so Drew clearly kicked out first. The ref fell to the floor and grabbed his left knee in pain. Shane entered and dragged Reigns into the corner, then kicked away at hi with his green sneakers. Shane took off his jacket and then set up a Coast To Coast. Shane then dragged Reigns mid-ring. Drew crawled over and made the cover. Shane threw the ref into the ring. He counted and Reigns kicked out at the very last second. Cole said the poor official seems to have a blown out knee. A loud “Roman!” chant started. Again, you could see in the crowd it was the women and kids, while the men just sat there quietly. Drew set up a Claymore, but Reigns hit a Superman Punch instead. Shane ran in. Reigns tossed him over the top rope. Despite that distraction, Reigns speared Drew and scored a three count. Cole said Reigns has finally rid himself of McIntyre and McMahon. He called it a definitive victory. Reigns smiled and celebrated with the cheering fans. They showed a dejected Shane on the floor at ringside.

WINNER: Reigns in 17:00. (***3/4)

Really good match. It’ll be interesting to reflect on this finish in six months and see if it was costly to Drew or a worthwhile boost for Reigns to so clearly define Reigns ahead of Drew. I mean, even with Shane’s interference, Drew lost again. The announcers selling the impact of the Coast-to-Coast as being a bigger deal than anything Drew did was a little much, too. I just don’t see a deep enough heel roster right now for WWE to afford to not protect Drew better than this.

(7) KOFI KINGSTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER – WWE Title match in a cage

Kofi threw pancakes to the crowd on his way to the ring. Ziggler went for an early escape, but Kofi stopped him. They went into a rapid sequence of big moves by Ziggler and attempts to escape, but Kofi countering and battling back. It settled into Ziggler on offense. Eventually Kofi came back after avoiding a Fameasser. Kofi climbed to the top rope and grabbed the top of the cage. Ziggler laugh tup to him and rammed him face-first into the cage. Kofi elbowed Ziggler and rammed his head into the cage. Then Kofi leaped off the top rope with a body press onto Ziggler for a two count. They battled on top of the cage next. Kofi headbutted Ziggler down, then dropped to the mat and delivered and S.O.S.

Ziggler countered into a leglock a minute later. When he superkicked Kofi, Kofi flew into the cage door and almost feel to the mat. Ziggler realized it and grabbed Kofi’s legs before he could fall to the floor to win. (What a lame way to retain a title that would have been.) Ziggler dragged Kofi back to mid-ring. The ref re-closed the door. Kofi escaped and went for a Trouble in Paradise, but Ziggler grabbed his leg and applied an ankle lock. Kofi escaped and applied his own Anklelock. Ziggler fired back with a Zig Zag for a two count.

They battled back and forth for a few minutes, including several Ziggler attempts to escape the cage door. Ziggler jabbed Kofi in the eyes with his thumb and then climbed out of the door again. Kofi leaped through the ropes and over Ziggler and landed on the floor with a thud first to win. Zigler sold the agony of the loss, while Big E and Xavier came out and put Kofi on their shoulders and walked up to the stage with him.

WINNER: Kingston in 20:00 to retain the WWE Title. (***)

Good athleticism sprinkled in with the usual tropes of this type of “escape the cage” match, but some real slow stretches that felt like it was stretching out the match needlessly. The finish was Kofi-esque where his athleticism outwitted Ziggler’s attempt to crawl to victory.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Stomping Grounds PPV Results: 6-23-19

(8) SETH ROLLINS vs. BARON CORBIN – WWE Universal Title match

Corbin made the ring announcer tout his resume and whole “favorite son” bit. Then he revealed that Lacey Evans was his pick as special referee. The announcers said this outsmarted Seth because Seth couldn’t attack Lacey with a chair like he would any man who stepped up. Seth exhaled like he was outsmarted. Corbin hit Seth from behind as Lacey and Seth argued at the start of the match. Corbin stayed in control. Fans chanted “This is stupid!” early. Cole said it was fans being upset with Lacey as referee. Renee said this is an unwinable situation for Seth. Fans began a brief “C.M. Punk” chant. (Because this doesn’t feel like a worthy PPV main event, I suspect.) Seth eventually came back and hit a slingvalde and then a leap off the second rope with a Blockbuster. Seth dove through the ropes and drove Corbin into the barricade. Then he hit a springboard knee to the face. He made the cover, but Lacey counted very slowly giving Corbin an easier chance to kick out after two. Corbin went for a chokeslam on the ring apron, but Seth avoided it and then powerbombed Corbin through the announce table at ringside. He almost overshot it completely, which would have been interesting and perhaps disastrous. Seth told Lacey to start counting out Corbin. She put her hands on her hips, then eventually got around to it. She got to seven and the adjusted her socks. Then she said eight. Then she told the ring announcer to let everyone know this was being changed into a “no countout” rule. Cole was upset. Graves said Lacey is the law as far as this match is concerned.

Seth grabbed Corbin and threw him back into the ring. He yelled, “You asked for it!” He then stomped the mat and fans chanted “Burn it down.” He superkicked Corbin, but Corbin rolled to the floor to avoid The Stomp. When Seth dove through the ropes, Corbin punched him. Seth dove through the ropes, but Corbin caught him and slammed him onto the ring apron. He followed up quickly with a chokeslam for a two count. Corbin set up a move after telling everyone to “get ready.” Seth blocked it. Corbin kicked Seth, but Seth avoided another Corbin move and kicked him in the face. Seth then landed a top rope frog splash for a very slow two count. She pretended to throw her shoulder out before her hand hit the third time. Cole said, “The fix is in. There is no way Seth Rollins will be able to combat this.” He said frustration is beginning to set in. Graves said Seth put himself in this position by taking out everyone who volunteered for the role. Corbin then hit Seth at ringside with several chairshots to the back. In the ring, Corbin hit Seth several more times. Renee asked if Lacey was even watching and accused her of filing her nails or something. Lacey soft-scolded Corbin for using a chair. Corbin said something to her. Lacey then told the ring announcer that this match is now no-DQ. Fans began chanting “Becky! Becky!” figuring out that Becky, Seth’s girlfriend, can hit Lacey with a chair even though Seth can’t. Corbin set up a move on a chair, but Seth countered with a Falcon Arrow onto the chair. Lacey didn’t even both to count this time as Cole loudly counted to seven and then exclaimed, “Are you kidding me? This is an absolutely farce!”

Lacey then slapped Seth as he had a few words for her. Graves said, “I’m not sure if that was exactly right, or smart.” Seth turned and yelled at her some more. “Is that all you got?” he asked. Lacey kicked Seth. Corbin went after Seth. Lacey then gave Seth a low blow from behind. Corbin hit the End of Days. Becky ran out to a big pop and tackled Lacey. (This explains WWE TV showing Seth and Becky as a couple more and mentioning it several times in recent weeks; it was all leading to this finish.) Becky gave Lacey a Becksploder Suplex into the barricade at ringside. Two referees ran out and pried them apart. Corbin called for John Cohn to enter the ring. Corbin went for another End of Days, but Seth escaped and delivered a Stomp for the win. Seth and Becky smiled and hugged and shared some laughs. Becky opened the ropes for Seth. Seth took her up on the offer. They left together.

WINNER: Rollins to retain the Universal Title.

Corbin doesn’t feel like a PPV main event heel, and the fans rejected the match early because of that. They stuck around to see the drama with Lacey play out and the predictable run-in from Becky. The closing scene with Seth and Becky working together as a team to overcome Corbin and Lacey was the case they’d make to justify this match going on last. It seemed to work with the crowd as they didn’t reject the finish, but popped for it.

 

[GohanX]

"Drive a Prius" chant was the best thing on the PPV. It was overall a pretty lackluster PPV other than the surprisingly good US Title and the tag title matches. I don't think having the Saudi show inserted in the middle of the regular PPVs really did them any favors.

 

[JoeAwesome]

The CW match was pretty good, too. MOTN for me.

 

[norton9478]

There was a PPV last night?

 

[Arcademan]

There was a PPV last night?

I found out about an hour after it started. Truth be known...I haven't really been watching wrestling much, WWE and otherwise and since this thread was on the second page, it's been a slow posting session of all wrestling the past few weeks for everyone here

 

[norton9478]

Hmmmm..... That is desperation. I pity Bischoff and Heyman.

 

[jro]

There was a PPV last night?

I think it was actually even available as an old-school tv PPV, too, I saw a little ad for it when I was scrolling the guide in Directv. I guess the tv providers are okay with the Network now?

The idea of spending any money whatsoever to see Baron Corbin main event a PPV is insane, let alone $60.

 

[Arcademan]

Hmmmm..... That is desperation. I pity Bischoff and Heyman.

For those not in the know...

Stamford, Conn., June 27, 2019 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced that it has named Paul Heyman as Executive Director of Monday Night Raw and Eric Bischoff as Executive Director of SmackDown Live, newly created positions reporting directly to WWE Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon.

In their executive roles, Heyman and Bischoff will oversee the creative development of WWE’s flagship programming and ensure integration across all platforms and lines of business. The creation of these roles further establishes WWE’s ability to continuously reinvent its global brand while providing two distinct creative processes for its flagship shows.

With more than 30 years of experience in the sports entertainment industry, Heyman served as President of ECW from 1993-2001, securing pay-per-view distribution for the company as well as a national cable television deal with TNN. After his time with ECW, Heyman joined WWE’s Creative team and is widely credited with helping launch the careers of many current and former WWE Superstars.

Bischoff is a former WCW President and New York Times bestselling author. During his WCW career, Bischoff oversaw the signing of some of the biggest names in sports entertainment and helped create and develop the NWO storyline. He was also instrumental in securing a television deal for WCW Monday Nitro on TNT and WCW Thunder on TBS. After WCW, Bischoff co-founded Bischoff-Hervey Entertainment, a production company that launched TV reality shows and mobile games.

 

[wataru330]

Too little, too late, too jarring camera angles (SmackDown).

NJPW scratches my itch, I’ve given up on the ‘E.

Tripps inserting himself in the place of Balor, squandering Nakamura + Rusev, Moxley, KENTA et al...

FUKC YUO VINCE

 

[Syn]

That's the whole thing, Paul and Eric are still going to have Vince changing things. Heyman will handle Vince better. At least neither needs the job and will stand up for what they believe.

Vince has just made sure AEW didn't get them for the time being.

 

[famicommander]

Bischoff hasn't made a positive contribution to wrestling since 1998.

 

[famicommander]

Apparently Tommy Dreamer was at one point considering murdering Paul Heyman and then killing himself at Wrestlemania X-7, live during the show. They actually had a sign at the venue saying that firearms were welcome inside.

This was after Paul convinced Dreamer to turn down a big money WWE offer ($750,000 for one year back in 2000) to essentially work for ECW for free, while at the same time Paul himself was secretly on WWE's payroll.

Dreamer was owed several months worth of money by Paul, totally broke, addicted to painkillers, depressed, etc. He had sold his house and moved in with his parents, using all of his money and some of theirs to help keep ECW afloat and make sure guys like Corino and Rhino and such were getting paid.

All the while Heyman was cashing Vince's checks and telling everybody else there was no money for them. And then the company folded and suddenly Heyman had a high paying commentary gig and most of the ECW roster was left in the cold. But Tommy's wife got him clean and made him get professional help.