offical wwe thread

[Taiso]

X^D

How can you not like the version of the move delivered by Mr. Excitement?

I'm just goofing.

I figured as much.

I like the Ace Crusher. Love doing it in the AJPW games and Fire Pro.

My favorite finishers are the Oklahoma Stampede by Dr Death & the Muscle Buster by Samoa Joe.

I get the same feeling from both when I see 'em: there is no way someone is kicking out of that.

And ftmp, the opponents *don't*.

Probably my favorite finisher of all time is Jake's DDT.

There were times when he hooked the guy, twirled the arm and dropped it and those were awesome.

But my favorites were when he'd just slap it on out of nowhere, like a cobra striking. When he did that and you didn't see it coming, it was a massive rush. And the way he'd just fucking plant the dude's head into the mat...you just believed he was out cold.

Even Austin, for as much as I love him, got too much into the ritual preceding the Stunner at one point. It was bearable because Austin made you believe in the aggression (when he was at his best.) Still, I liked him more when he was in his earlier WWE days, when it was all about business and beating people up.

Goldberg's Jackhammer has to be among the worst finishers of all time. If you think about that move for two seconds, it makes no damn sense. Completely breaks immersion.

 

[wataru330]

Probably my favorite finisher of all time is Jake's DDT.

There were times when he hooked the guy, twirled the arm and dropped it and those were awesome.

But my favorites were when he'd just slap it on out of nowhere, like a cobra striking. When he did that and you didn't see it coming, it was a massive rush. And the way he'd just fucking plant the dude's head into the mat...you just believed he was out cold.

After Roberts DDT'd Steamboat on the outside to start their feud in '86- I was sold on the move.

*When he did it*

The DDT (along w/ other classic moves) has gone from finisher, to transition move for many wrestlers.

No bueno.

 

[Taiso]

Although it's cool that Jake Roberts has done something that has affected the performance art of wrestling.

The DDT is a staple move for workers now, not solely a finisher. That's all because they love the move.

Pretty damn cool, even if it has made it more commonplace these days.

 

[Hot Chocolate]

I always liked the angle they did were someone wanted the DDT banned and Jake just looked at the camera and said, "He wants it banned because he knows at any time like a cobra I can strike with it and it's all over. You can't ban it you can only fear it cause brother when I strike.....well you've seen the results"

 

[wataru330]

A couple of finishers that deserve mention: Kobashi's Burning Hammer. Only performed 7x EVER...2 wrist clutch, 5 regular. Do this in a real fight, & you are going to jail. Dangerous, in the Japanese sense of the world.

I've no idea what it's called, but once I saw Col. DeBeers do something I've not seen since. Imagine Gail Kim's 'eat da feet' given avalanche style, opponent facing the ring (w/ DeBeers holding like a Glam Slam) & using a knee in the back, instead of a foot to the jaw.

You coulda counted to 100! 8^D

 

[Arcademan]

ROH TV Results: 12-3-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - SHILOH JONZE vs. TOMASSO CIMAPA (w/Prince Nana)

Ciampa nailed Jonze with a series of knees and he slumped into the corner. Ciampa continued to dominate the action. Jonze fired back with some punches, but Ciampa eventually took him down with a big clothesline. The crowd tried to rally behind Jonze. He tried to make another comeback and eventually hit a big punch off the top. Ciampa ducked a punch and nailed Jonze with a dropkick from his knees. Ciampa then hit a big running knee on Jonze in the corner. Ciampa hit another big running knee and stared into the crowd. They must have fixed the lights, as I don’t see a glare from the floor camera. Ciampa hit several more knees in the corner, but the ref didn’t stop the match. Ciampa then hit project Ciampa and covered Jonze with his knee for the pin.

Winner: Tomasso Ciampa – This was a good showcase of Ciampa’s power and devastating offense. It’s nice to see the promotion using more effective squash matches.

2 - - FUTURE SHOCK (Adam Cole & Kyle O’Reilly) vs. THE YOUNG BUCKS (Matt & Nick Jackson)

Cole got the better of Matt and locked in an arm bar. Future Shock then hit a series of kicks on Nick after Cole tagged in O’Reilly. O’Reilly and Nick went at it. O’Reilly nailed Nick with a series of strikes. Nick tagged in Matt, but Future Shock caught him with a tandem bulldog for a 2 count. Cole caught Matt and O’Reilly blind-tagged himself in and hit a northern lights suplex with a bridge for a 2 count.

Kelly said next week ANX would face WGTT in a Proving Ground match. The Young Bucks fired back and took control of the match. Matt nailed O’Reilly with a sliding kick through the ropes and he flew into the ring barrier. Matt continued to work over O’Reilly back in the ring. O’Reilly tried to fight his way out of the Young Bucks’s corner, but they grounded him. The crowd tried to rally behind O’Reilly as they went to commercial break.

They came back from commercial and the Young Bucks were still in control. They showed footage from the commercial break with the Young Bucks double teaming O’Reilly. Matt mocked Cole and the ref tried to prevent him from coming into the ring, which allowed Matt to choke O’Reilly with his boot. O’Reilly got an inside cradle for a 2 count, but Matt nailed him with a sledgehammer right away to keep him down. The crowd tried to rally behind O’Reilly again as the Bucks tagged in and out of the match to work him over. O’Reilly caught Matt with a suplex and then got his knees up when Nick tried a springboard splash. O’Reilly struggled to his own corner and made the hot tag to Cole. Cole hit a double missile dropkick on the Bucks and continued to run wild.

Kelly mentioned that Cole had wrestled all over the world this year. Nick distracted Cole from the apron and sent him outside, but Cole caught him coming through the ropes and hit him with a wheelbarrow suplex on the apron. Damn! Cole went up top and hit a big splash on Matt for a nearfall. Matt countered Cole, but got caught with a stunner. O’Reilly tagged in and hit a series of butterfly suplexes on Matt. Nick tried to run in, so O’Reilly hit him with a series of butterfly suplexes. Cole & O’Reilly then hit a tandem butterfly suplex into a German suplex on Nick and the crowd went nuts.

The Young Bucks fired back and Matt hit two powerbombs on Cole and then a buckle bomb in the corner. The Bucks then hit a tandem superkick on Cole for a nearfall. The Bucks went for more bang for your buck, but Cole countered. O’Reilly ran in and hit a superkick/brainbuster combination on Matt. O’Reilly locked in the guillotine on Matt while Cole held Nick back from getting into the ring. Nick finally tried to make the save, but O’Reilly wouldn’t let go. O’Reilly spit in Nick’s eye. Nick caught O’Reilly with a running kick, but he wouldn’t let go of the hold. Nick finally punched O’Reilly off of Matt, but O’Reilly applied the hold again. Cole held Nick back, but he hit a springboard face buster on O’Reilly to break up the pin. The Young Bucks hit more bang for your buck for the pin.

Winners: Matt & Nick Jackson

Star rating: (***1/4) – This was a shorter version of the fantastic match these two teams had at PWG’s “Steen Wolf” in October. This was a really nice television main event with both teams going back and forth and building to a hot finish. I really liked the way the finish of the match was put together with O’Reilly and Cole mounting a comeback with O’Reilly refusing to let go of his guillotine choke on Matt even when Nick emptied the kitchen sink on him to get him to break the hold.

 

[Arcademan]

ROH TV Results: 12-10-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Radican's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - - THE BRAVADOS (Lancelot & Harlem Bravado) vs. CAPRICE COLEMAN & CEDRIC ALEXANDER

The crowd taunted Harlem with Beiber chants. Alexander grounded Harlem and worked over his arm. Harlem tossed Lancelot into the corner and tagged in Lancelot. The Bravados then hit a double team elbow. Alexander fired back on Lancelot and tagged in Coleman, who hit a springboard clothesline. Coleman took down Lancelot with a nice dropkick and tagged in Alexander for a double team suplex. Harlem ran into the ring and got taken out as well. The Bravados cut off Alexander and began working him over in their own corner. Harlem taunted the crowd as the Bravados continued to work over Alexander. Alexander fired back and tagged in Coleman, who ran wild. Coleman caught Harlem with a leg lariat for a 2 count. Coleman caught Harlem with a 6-1-9 around the ringpost and Alexander followed up with a dive to take out both Bravados.

Alexander hit a frogsplash on Harlem back inside the ring and Coleman covered him for a 2 count. The action broke down with all four men in the ring. Alexander and Coleman hit a tandem neckbreaker on Harlem for the pin.

Winners: Cedric Alexander & Caprice Coleman – This was a solid tag match to give Coleman & Alexander a win on television.

2 - - T.J. PERKINS vs. CHRIS SILVIO

Silvio looks like Jesse Ventura and Hulk Hogan’s bastard child. Perkins and Silvio went back and forth on the mat in the early going. Perkins took down Silvio with a dropkick. They picked up the pace and Perkins nailed Silvio with a hurricanrana. Silvio grabbed a headscissors on the mat, but Perkins slipped out and nailed him with a dropkick. Perkins drove Silvio into the turnbuckles, but Silvio managed to roll to the floor. They went at it on the outside and Silvio pushed Perkins into the ringpost. He then tossed him into the barricade and flexed for the fans. Silvio slipped come off the top, but connected with a fist on Perkins. Silvio hit an arm capture slam and followed up with a running senton for a 2 count. Perkins fired back and hit a springboard dropkick to the back of Silvio. Perkins lit up Silvio with kicks and hit his 32nd hurricanrana of the match. Perkins sent Silvio to the outside and nailed him with a dive through the ropes.

Perkins caught Silvio with an ankle lock with a grapevine, but Silvio eventually got the ropes. Perkins went for hurricanrana number 33, but Silvio countered it into a powerbomb. Silvio placed Perkins on the top turnbuckle and went for a superplex, but Perkins tossed him off. Perkins connected with the double knees off the top and followed up with the detonation kick for the pin.

Winner: T.J. Perkins – The match was fine, but neither man did a lot to stand out. I’ve seen Perkins in some really good matches, but this match was just there and the crowd really didn’t seem into the action.

3 - - ANX (Rhett Titus & Kenny King) vs. ROH World Tag Team Champions (Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin) – Proving Ground match

The match began with 14 minutes of TV time remaining. Benjamin drove King into the corner. Benjamin offered a clean break, but King shoved him away. Both men exchanged counters. Benjamin finally caught King with a sunset flip and they exchanged 2 counts. They went back and forth and finally came to a stalemate and the crowd applauded. King grounded Benjamin a short time later and Titus tagged in and continued to work him over landing a big dropkick for a 2 count. Haas blind-tagged himself into the match and they double teamed Titus with a series of maneuvers for a 2 count. Haas went to work on Titus’s arm. Kelly and McGuinness plugged ROH’s ringside membership while Haas continued to work over Titus’s arm.

Titus fired back and King blind-tagged himself into the match and took out Haas with a big clothesline. Titus tagged in and hit a splash on Haas after King landed a springboard legdrop. Titus went for a charge on Haas in the corner, but Haas got out of the way and he crashed into the ringpost. Kelly pitched to a commercial break as Haas worked over Titus’s arm.

They came back from commercial with Titus trying to mount a comeback, but Benjamin tagged himself into the match and took him down to the mat. They showed Titus nearly making the hot tag during the commercial break, but he got cut off. They showed a fan looking on in silence as Benjamin continued to work over Titus with a German with a bridge for a 2 count. WGTT continued to tag in and out to work over Titus. Haas continued to work over Titus’s eye as Kelly pointed out a turnbuckle had accidentally come off. Haas showed a bit of a mean streak while working over Titus and the crowd booed. Titus tried to fire up on Benjamin a short time later with a series of forearms. Titus whipped Benjamin into the exposed turnbuckle and both men were down on the mat.

Titus nearly tagged out, but Haas got the tag from Benjamin and cut him off. Haas continued to work over Titus’s arm, but Titus drove him into the exposed turnbuckle. Titus leapt over Haas and made the hot tag to King, who ran wild on Haas and Benjamin. The crowd didn’t seem to be much into King’s big comeback. Titus took down Haas with a top rope x-factor, but Benjamin made the save. The action broke down with all four men in the ring. King took down Haas with the shotgun knees in the corner and went up top. Benjamin recovered and tossed him down to the mat. Haas then covered King for a nearfall. Haas & Benjamin set up for the leap of faith on King, but Titus pulled the ropes down. The Briscoes then attacked Benjamin with a chairshot to the back. King hit a backbreaker on Haas. Titus then came off the top with a knee drop for the pin on Haas.

Winners: Rhett Titus & Kenny King to earn a shot at the ROH World Tag Team Titles

Star rating: (**1/2) – The match had some good action, but the crowd just wasn’t into the action in the ring which took out any excitement factor that would have been there. The Briscoes running in and attacking Benjamin set them up to go into “Final Battle” as heels, but they’re really going to have to drive home that point next week on television.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Tribute to the Troops Special Results: 12-13-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT

Orton scored early offense before Barrett cheated to take control. The crowd cheered for Orton, who took a big boot that sent him falling to the ring apron. Orton came back with a back drop to slow down Barrett. The match moved to the top turnbuckle, where Orton set up for and delivered a superplex. Moments later, Orton delivered trademark offense before going to That Place, but Barrett cut him off with a boot to the chest. Orton brushed it off and returned to That Place before setting up for the RKO. Barrett tried to run away, but Orton chased him down on the outside. Orton and Barrett continued to brawl and they were counted out.

Post-match: The fight continued ringside with the two men trading blows. Barrett whipped Orton into the ring steps, then went looking for a table to send a message before TLC. Barrett set up the table in the ring, but Orton dropped Barrett with a dropkick. Orton teased a table spot, much to the crowd's delight, but David Otunga stormed the ring to attack Orton. Barrett ran away to save himself for Sunday as Otunga put the boots to Orton. Otunga wanted a table spot, but Orton elbowed out and dropped Otunga with an RKO. Orton turned his attention to Barrett, who was on the stage by now, to give him an icy look. The crowd wasn't satisfied and wanted someone to go through a table, so Orton put Otunga through the table with an emphatic powerbomb. The crowd popped. Barrett tried to act unimpressed as Orton turned his attention to Barrett to keep the stare down going. After a replay, Orton continued to stare down Barrett.

WINNER: Double Count-out at 5:57. Thus far, this feels like a standard WWE wrestling show with a standard arena setting, the announcers playing up storylines, the next PPV promoted, and matches designed to advance stories rather than just keeping things at a standstill a la a house show.

2 -- JACK SWAGGER (w/Dolph Ziggler) vs. ZACK RYDER (w/Sgt. Slaughter)

Swagger quickly pounded on Ryder to take control before Ryder came back with a right hand strike. And another. Ryder then delivered a Broski Boot and called for the end while Ziggler freaked out ringside. Swagger countered the Rough Ryder, though, and delivered a shoulder block for a two count.

Swagger then fed Ryder to the outside for Ziggler to deliver a sucker punch. Ziggler comically hopped on the announce table to tweet about his greatness before Slaughter came over to clothesline Ziggler. Swagger got in Slaughter's face, then kicked him in the gut. Swagger ripped off Slaughter's headband, then booted Ryder on the outside.

Back in the ring, Swagger went for a running Swagger Bomb, but Ryder got his feet up to block. Ryder followed up with the Rough Ryder for a pin and the win. Post-match: Ryder brought Slaughter into the ring to stalk Swagger for the Cobra Clutch. Meanwhile, Ziggler retreated to the stage to set up Ryder-Ziggler at the PPV.

WINNER: Ryder at 3:46.

3 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA & BELLA TWINS vs. KELLY KELLY & ALICIA FOX & EVE & MARIA MENOUNOS -- eight-Divas tag match

The heels isolated Eve building to a hot tag to Kelly. The action broke down before Maria tagged into the match and Beth stopped her in her tracks. Beth shoved Maria into the corner, but Maria avoided a corner attack and scored with a sunset flip. It was good for a quick three count that shocked everyone. Maria sold shock as well before the faces celebrated in the ring and Phoenix retreated to the floor with Natalya.

WINNERS: Team Maria at 2:45.

4 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title match

Rhodes dominated early on and continued to glare at Booker. Rhodes applied a bow & arrow submission, but Bryan escaped and landed multiple uppercuts. Rhodes cut him off, though, and scored a two count. Bryan made a comeback and continued to sell the ribs before landing a corner kick strike. Bryan then clotheslined Rhodes over the top rope to the floor in front of the announcers. Naturally, Rhodes tried to send a message to Booker by attacking Bryan on the outside. Booker had enough and walked over to Bryan to check on him, drawing Rhodes's attention. "Booker T" chant as Rhodes rolled Bryan back into the ring. Rhodes then exposed the ribs, but ducked under the ring to jaw with Booker, who popped him in the mouth behind the ref's back. Bryan then rolled up Rhodes from behind for a quick three count.

Post-match: Rhodes threw a fit. "You should be fined!" Cole shouted over and over toward Booker, who returned to the headsets and said he lost his composure. "That's my bad. I'm sorry!" Booker said. In the ring, Rhodes shouted at Booker to come meet him in the ring. Booker dropped the headset, removed his tailored suit jacket, and the fight was on in the ring. Booker landed a big back body drop that cleared Rhodes to the outside, then Rhodes grabbed his title belt and started to leave. Rhodes ran back into the ring, though, and took a right hand to the face from Booker. This time, Rhodes bailed for good. Booker's music hit and he did a spin-a-rooni to the delight of the crowd.

WINNER: Bryan at 4:29. Booker was terrific in the post-match with the "I'm sorry" line. Overall, a fine set up for Booker-Rhodes at the PPV.

5 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (KOFI KINGSTON & EVAN BOURNE) vs. PRIMO & EPICO (w/Rosa Mendes) -- non-title match

Bourne and Kofi took turns working over Primo early on before Epico tagged in. Lucha Libre broke out before Bourne caught Epico with a kick to the face. The tag champs resumed an attack, this time on Epico. The heels then cut off Kingston, who made a tag to Bourne moments later. Lots of camera time going to Rosa here, even during Bourne's time to shine. The action broke down, which left Bourne alone in the ring to take a backstabber from Epico. Epico made the cover for the win, nearly drawing shock from Primo. The heels then celebrated in the ring as Swoggle reluctantly announced the winners.

WINNERS: Epico & Primo at 2:57. This felt heavily edited for time. If it's the start of a new tag division feud, then thumbs up.

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. DREW MCINTYRE

The color contrast was very noticeable since it appeared McIntyre spent the entire day in a tanning bed. Sheamus quickly blasted away on McIntyre, then wanted the Celtic Cross, but Mac rolled away for a rope break. Mac used the misdirection to take control momentarily. After a thumb to the eye, Sheamus snapped and tackled Mac before pounding on him with big right hands. Sheamus landed big knees to the back of the neck before pounding on his chest. A Brogue Kick put Mac on his back and it was good for the pin and the win. Cole said the moral of the story is not to make Sheamus mad.

WINNER: Sheamus at 2:17. A firm squash to continue building up Sheamus while he's in-between programs.

7 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK & JOHN CENA & BIG SHOW vs. World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY & ALBERTO DEL RIO & THE MIZ -- six-man tag match

Punk and Miz started things off, with Punk taking control after a brief exchange. Punk then teased a tag to Cena, who accepted. Cena and Miz did a double leap frog into a dropkick from Punk. Great house show spot. Punk accidentally went for a cover, so Cena pushed him off and made a cover for a nearfall. On the outside, Punk raised his arms to acknowledge he got over-zealous trying a pin not being the legal man. Show then tagged in and quieted the crowd to blast Miz with a chop. Miz ran away and tagged in Del Rio, who slowly entered the ring to square off with Show. Del Rio had enough of Show and ran over to Henry to tag him in.

Henry nodded his head to acknowledge Show before slowly entering the ring for a mid-ring face-off. The two big men traded blows before Henry delivered a big bodyslam for a two count. Henry, satisfied with his work, slapped Del Rio to bring Del Rio into the match. Del Rio wasted a bunch of time, then stomped and kicked Show. Miz was next in to try the same offense as "John Cena" was trending on Twitter. Henry then re-entered the ring to apply a bear hug on Show. Show broke free with headbutts and a back kick, then the two big men collided mid-ring with a double clothesline. Cena sold shock after the collision before warming up the crowd.

Punk took a hot tag as Miz took a tag from Henry. Punk flew at Miz with a springboard clothesline before delivering rapid-fire offense. Punk then hopped on Show's shoulders and they walked across the ring for Punk to deliver a Macho Man elbow drop from Show's shoulders. Miz kicked out of a pin, though, after Del Rio stomped Punk in the head. The heels then isolated Punk and Henry did some trash-talking during the beat down. Henry positioned Punk for the World's Strongest Slam and trash-talked Show, but Punk escaped and hot-tagged Cena to a big reaction.

Cena entered with offense on Henry before delivering a fallaway slam on Henry. The action broke down with Show delivering a chokeslam to Del Rio, Punk with the GTS for Miz, and Show with a KO Punch to Henry. Henry then stumbled into Cena, who lifted Henry in the air for the Attitude Adjustment. Cena made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Team Cena at 9:24. Solid house show-quality main event with the stars "letting their hair down" before Cena capped it off with a classic Power Display to send the crowd home happy.

Post-match, Cena, Punk, and Show celebrated in the face corner before posing for the crowd. They replayed high points from the match and did a slow-motion replay of Cena delivering the AA to Henry. Cena's music stopped, then he took a mic in the ring. Cena thanked everyone for performing tonight as the wrestlers were shown assembled on the stage. Cena then thanked the military for defending the country. He said the troops sacrifice every second of every day. He said this event means the world to WWE because this is their way of giving back to them.

Cena said the heart & soul of this event is the same heart & soul that defends and protects the greatest nation in the world. "U-S-A" chant as Cena paused. Cena told the crowd to let the world hear the spirit of Ft. Bragg. Cena asked for another round of applause before the locker room came down from the stage to ringside for a victory lap. A rare look at Orton in clothes here. After various shots of wrestlers and military personnel, they showed Cena saluting the crowd for the final shot of the show.

 

[K_K]

A couple of finishers that deserve mention: Kobashi's Burning Hammer. Only performed 7x EVER...2 wrist clutch, 5 regular. Do this in a real fight, & you are going to jail. Dangerous, in the Japanese sense of the world.

I've no idea what it's called, but once I saw Col. DeBeers do something I've not seen since. Imagine Gail Kim's 'eat da feet' given avalanche style, opponent facing the ring (w/ DeBeers holding like a Glam Slam) & using a knee in the back, instead of a foot to the jaw.

You coulda counted to 100! 8^D

BURNINGU HAMMMMAAAAA!!!!

crazy fucking fireman's carry piledriver. awesome finisher.

 

[wataru330]

I know rasslin' be over the top, but c'mon. Kurt Angle just threatened to beat up an ENTIRE TOWN.

I'm rollin in the aisle over here.

 

[Eric]

I know rasslin' be over the top, but c'mon. Kurt Angle just threatened to beat up an ENTIRE TOWN.

I'm rollin in the aisle over here.

 

[K_K]

so i got WWE all stars in a bargain bin sale. after unlocking everyone, and downloading all i can for it i've found the southern charisma pack with big boss man, mark henry, and michael hayes of the fabulous freebirds doesn't seem to be available. anyone have any insight as to why its not on PSN? is it just not here in europe? that'd suck.

 

[Hot Chocolate]

That's the first I'm hearing of it, I'll do some digging

 

[Arcademan]

WWE NXT Results: 12-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TRENT BARRETA & YOSHI TATSU vs. TYLER REKS & CURT HAWKINS

This has the makings of a good match. Barreta and Reks start off, with Reks immediately kicking Barreta in the gut and going to work with clubbing blows. Trent makes a quick comeback with a dropkick, and tags in Tatsu. Tag team double armdrag, Barreta with a running flip dive, and Tatsu makes the cover for one. Tatsu with chops in the corner, but Reks reverses a whip. Tatsu catches his head in a scissor hold in the corner and kicks him off. Tatsu to the top, but Hawkins tries to interfere, letting Reks arm drag Tatsu off the turnbuckle and across the ring. Reks overpowers Tatsu and tags in Hawkins. Hawkins with a suplex for two. Striker, rather out of character for himself, says that Hawkins and Reks have been given chances in the past and are overinflating their complains.

Reks come back in, does some work and gets Hawkins back in. Tatsu with a jawbreaker, but he can't make the tag. He breaks free again and this time he slaps Barreta's hand. Barreta flies across the ring to clear out Reks from the apron, then takes down Hawkins. Barreta with a running neckbreaker, then up top for a high crossbody (as in, "Kofi Kingston high,") but Reks breaks up the tag. Tatsu comes in, but Reks clotheslines him right out again. Barreta knocks Reks out, but Hawkins surprises him with a clothesline. Hawkins tries his weird powerslam, but Barreta slips out and rolls up Hawkins for the win. Barreta wisely runs out of the ring before Reks can catch him.

WINNERS: Trent Barreta and Yoshi Tatsu in 4:00. I would have liked to have seen this as a 10-15-minute match, but the ending and the pre-match promos definitely set up a longer program between the two teams, which has nothing but upside. Anything that puts more of these four wrestlers on-screen is good.

2 - JEY USO vs. JTG (w/Tamina)

Jey with a quick takedown and headlock, but JTG escapes. Jey with a shoulder tackle. JTG with a gutbuster to gain control. JTG looks like he stole Chavo's old trunks and turned them into baggy jeans. JTG mocks Uso's attempts to get the crowd involved by saying "Us... No" while locking Jey in a leg scissors. JTG goes on his typical offensive routine. Jey with a spinning elbow to get some breathing room, and after some back-and-forth, Jey lands a superkick for the win. Post-match, Tamina kisses JTG to revive him, and Jey hams up that he's sick.

WINNER: Jey Uso in 3:00. Quick, boring match, and the end came out of nowhere. What was the point of this?

3 - PERCY WATSON vs. JOHNNY CURTIS

Watson immediately takes over. Curtis gets frustrated and heads to the corner for a break, but Watson meets him there for more punishment. Watson continues to take out his anger on Curtis. Watson charges Curtis in the corner, but Curtis lifts him up and over the ropes sending Watson to the floor. Curtis goes outside to beat on Watson a bit. Curtis rolls Watson into the ring and cuts off Watson's comeback with a suplex. Curtis with an armbar while Striker mentions his Ronald Reagan picture.

Curtis to the second rope, but Watson counters with a jumping knee to the face in one of those non-moves. Watson with dropkicks and a superman punch, then an overhead throw. Watson dances and lands the standing crossbody press for two. Curtis fights out of the corner, kicking Watson's hand, then working it a bit more. Curtis with his brainbuster finisher (which looked more like a suplex; it was a touch sloppy) for the win out of nowhere. Mathews didn't even realize it was the end and treated it like any other move.

WINNER: Johnny Curtis in 4:00. Decent match without enough time to really get out of first gear. Both Watson and Curtis have done better when given more than a few minutes.

 

[Arcademan]

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 12-15-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match -- 5-minute overtime period

It wasn't clear if this was still contested like an Iron Man match or Sudden Death rules with the first fall to win. 45 seconds in, Tenay clarified it's Sudden Death. Roode tried to run away early on, but Styles trapped him in the ring for a series of nearfalls. Roode cried out for a time-out, but Styles continued to attack the champ. Styles took a kick to the injured knee, though, allowing Roode to target the injury. Styles fought back with elbow strikes into a springboard reverse DDT for a close two count when Roode grabbed the ropes for a break. 30 seconds to go and Roode thumbed Styles in the eye. Roode saw the clock on the scoreboard and rolled to of the ring. They placed chase again before Styles landed a springboard splash. The clock ran out, though, before Styles could attempt a pin.

WINNER: Time Limit Draw at 5:00.

Post-match: The crowd chanted for five more minutes, but Roode told the crowd to shut up. Sting's music then hit to bring out TNA's authority figure on-stage. Sting said they could do this all night, then booked a re-match with the first fall winning the match.

2 -- TNA World Hvt. champion ROBERT ROODE vs. A.J. STYLES -- TNA World Title match -- First Fall Wins

As soon as Sting made the announcement, Roode clipped Styles from behind as Styles was listening to Sting. Styles sold a leg injury and Roode immediately applied a half-Boston Crab. Styles tried to fight the hold, but had to tap out to save his leg. Roode is still World champ.

WINNER: Roode at 0:38 to retain the TNA World Title. Good advancement of Roode's heel character getting under the skin of the audience. The goal should be to get people to pay money to see Roode get his comeuppance, so we'll see if TNA can build to that moment at Genesis when Jeff Hardy challenges Roode.

3 -- ABYSS & SCOTT STEINER vs. HERNANDEZ & ROB TERRY (w/Rosita and Sarita) -- Wild Card tag tournament First Round match

A lot of big dudes in this match. At the start, Tenay passed along some news from Final Resolution that either Jeff or Karen Jarrett will be fired tonight. Steiner dominated the match and asked the crowd if they wanted to see Abyss enter the match. Steiner extended a hand to Abyss, who just ignored him. Terry then popped Steiner from behind before Hernandez choked Steiner with his t-shirt. Ref Earl Hebner delivered some unintentional comedy looking for something to distract himself with so he conveniently would not see the choke.

Abyss finally had enough of standing on the apron, so he tagged himself into the match to destroy Terry and Hernandez. Abyss delivered a Black Hole Slam to Terry, then pointed to Steiner. Abyss slap-tagged Steiner and gave him the floor to enter the ring. Steiner made the cover on Terry and it was good for the win. Post-match: Steiner didn't know what to make of Abyss, so he tried to leave the ring, but Abyss yanked him back to center-ring so they could celebrate the win. Steiner continued to sell bewilderment before posing in the ring. Abyss pointed to his head to suggest he has a plan.

WINNERS: Abyss & Steiner at 4:13. A Steiner face turn would work here since crowds are too entertained by his act to boo him. But, this came across more like TNA trying to enhance Abyss's mental skills to go with his physical and sexual skills.

4 -- ANTHONY NESE vs. ZEMA ION -- Best of Three Series -- Match #1

Nese blasted Ion to the outside early on. He then played to the crowd before leaping over the top rope with a flip dive that nearly missed Ion. Back in the ring, Nese delivered a springboard elbow strike for a nearfall. Nese followed with a flying uppercut. He tried a top-rope huracanrana, but Ion blocked and scored with a missile dropkick. Ion followed with a gutbuster, but pulled off a pinfall twice. Ion wasn't satisfied with his work, so he went up top for a 450 splash and connected. This time, he was satisfied and scored the pin for the win.

WINNER: Ion at 4:00. Apparently Ion is a heel now. The finish gave Nese motivation to get revenge in the next match and potentially the series, so a fine way to set up the next match in the series after a random start.

5 -- JESSE NEAL vs. GUNNER (w/Ric Flair)

The bell sounded and Gunner stampeded Neal with strikes and blows. Gunner followed with a corner tackle and more clubbing right hands. Ref Hebner sold intimidation as Flair flashed Gunner a thumbs up. A "Jesse, Jesse" chant fired up Gunner some more, so he dumped Neal to the outside. Hebner tried to reprimand Gunner, but Gunner shoved him, which drew a DQ.

Post-match: Flair removed the ring padding and Gunner measured Neal for a DDT onto the concrete. Neal sold being KO'ed as Tenay noted Neal's history of head and neck injuries. They quick-cut to a replay as the crowd chanted that Gunner sucks. Quick-cut back to ringside, where agents and EMTs were ringside. Tenay quietly said they'll keep on top of this.

WINNER: Neal via DQ at 1:42. There's the write-off for Neal parting ways with TNA.

6 -- TV champion ROBBIE E. & DOUG WILLIAMS vs. SAMOA JOE & MAGNUS -- Wild Card tag tournament First Round match

Tag partners Williams and Magnus started things off. They had a classic "exchange of holds between tag partners" to capture they are equally matched and know each other very well. Robbie tagged into the match and scored some offense on Magnus, leading to a methodical attack on Magnus.

The crowd tried to rally behind Magnus, who tried to tag in Joe. Eventually, Magnus made the tag and Joe cleaned house. Snap powerslam led to Williams accidentally elbow-dropping Robbie trying to break up a pin. Joe then landed corner elbow strikes on Robbie before Magnus came off the top with an elbow drop. Magnus then crotched Williams and Joe followed with a Muscle Buster for the pin and the win. Magnus and Joe work together for the win. Afterward, Robbie bailed while Joe & Magnus reluctantly celebrated in the ring.

WINNERS: Joe & Magnus at 3:58. There's potential for this Joe & Magnus duo. At the very least, it gives them purpose and a chance to develop chemistry with multiple TV matches.

7 -- TRACI BROOKS vs. KO tag champion MADISON RAYNE

Before the match, they focused on Traci's feud with Knockouts champion Gail Kim and Rayne. To start the proceedings, Traci jumped Rayne on the entrance ramp before dragging her to ringside and into the ring to officially start the match. Madison absorbed the pre-match attack, then scored a series of nearfalls in-between taunts. After being frustrated by the nearfalls, Madison scored the decisive fall, then gloated about her victory.

WINNER: Madison at 3:52.

8 -- JEFF HARDY vs. BULLY RAY

Ray jumped Hardy before the bell sounded, allowing him to quickly wear down a sore and injured Hardy. Tenay tried to get Roode's thoughts on the Jarretts being fired, but he only wanted to talk about himself. He then challenged Roode on being a fighting champion. Roode rolled his eyes and said he went 30 minutes on Sunday and another overtime period tonight. Roode then laughed at his actions last Thursday spitting in Dixie Carter's face. Ray continued to wear down Hardy as Roode claimed Hardy doesn't stand a chance against him at Genesis.

Hardy tried to mount a comeback by elbowing out of a bear hug, but he ate a big back body drop from Ray. Ray scored multiple nearfalls attempting pinfalls, then went back to work, but missed with a corner splash. Hardy fought back with right hands as Roode knocked his family and said the title belt is his family. Hardy went for the Twist of Fate and connected. Hardy made the cover, but Ray kicked out. Ray came back with a sidewalk slam, but Hardy escaped again. Ray missed with another splash, then Hardy hit another Twist of Fate. This one was good for the pin and the win.

Post-match: Hardy collected himself and pointed to the stage, where Roode stood up and threw down the headset before charging the ring. Ray clipped Hardy from behind to assist Roode, who stormed the ring to attack Hardy. Ray then grabbed a table and set it up inside the ring. Roode said they're not done with Hardy, then Ray set up Hardy for a powerbomb and delivered it through the table. Sting then stormed the ring and went nose-to-nose with Roode. Ray tried to attack Sting from behind, but Sting saw it coming. He didn't see a belt shot coming from Roode, though. Roode and Ray put the boots to Sting, then Roode grabbed his title belt and flashed it in Sting's face, then Hardy's face. Roode leaned in close to Hardy to taunt him as they signed off seven minutes past the top of the hour.

WINNER: Hardy at 4:40. They packed a ten-minute main event into five minutes, which made Ray look a bit weak taking a clean loss, but also enhanced Hardy on his title quest. The post-match allowed Ray to get his heat back associating with Roode, who continues to be a strong lead heel. It's old hat continuing to involve authority figures in the top program, but at least Sting can eventually wrestle if they're building to a Roode-Sting match down the road.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Superstars Results: 12-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to James's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 - JUSTIN GABRIEL vs. DREW MCINTYRE

Drew puts Gabriel into the turnbuckle, but when he jaws at the ref for breaking it, Gabriel takes over. McIntyre quickly comes back with punches, but Gabriel ducks a Big Boot and goes on the attack. McIntyre connects with the Big Boot, and lands a gutbuster from a fireman's carry for two, and transitions to a seated abdominal stretch. Gabriel mounts a comeback, but McIntyre gets a back body drop and covers for two. McIntyre with a pair of backbreakers as Striker and Mathews resume their petty arguing, even referencing events from NXT. McIntyre looks cocky after putting Gabriel into the corner, but he transitions a tilt-a-whirl move from McIntyre into a huracanrana, and then lands a springboard moonsault for two. McIntyre clotheslines Gabriel out of the air on a springboard move, then lands the Future Shock DDT for his first win in months.

WINNER: Drew McIntyre in 7:00. These two both have the skills, but it felt like they were stringing together spots, not having a match. All the same, it's good to see McIntyre with a win after months of being squashed on main roster shows and having hard fought losses on Superstars. Gabriel looked fine in the loss.

2 - TRENT BARRETA vs. HUNICO (w/Mystery Man)

Hunico rode on the back pegs of a low-rider bicycle being pedaled by someone I've never seen before, a well-muscled man dressed as stereotypically as Hunico. (Although not identified by the announcers, it was FCW wrestler Donny Marlow, the son of Haku.)

Hunico with an early wristlock for control, forcing Barreta down hard by the hair. Barreta with a quick monkey flip for one and moves to a side chinlock. Hunico armdrags out, then arm drags Barreta right into the turnbuckle, which looked painful. cover for one. Hunico abuses Barreta in the corner. Hunico with a suplex which gets two, and settles into a rear chinlock. Hunico lands some sort of inside-out armdrag. Barreta rolls under the ropes to the apron, but when Hunico leans through to grab him, Barreta surprises him with a leg drop.

Barreta goes up top for the corkscrew moonsault leg drop and lands it for a nearfall after a slow cover. Barreta lands a Gobstopper Knee from across the ring for two. Hunico shrugs off the Dudebuster DDT and sends Barreta into the ropes with a drop toe hold. Hunico with an Olympic slam, then goes up top for a Swanton Bomb for the win.

WINNER: Hunico in 5:00. Excellent, fast pace to this match. With Hunico having a new mystery partner, is he separating from Epico and Primo, to have two gang-like Hispanic stables? Or is this just an expansion of the stable?

3 - ALEX RILEY vs. JACK SWAGGER

Wow, Eden Stiles is sounding like she's actively trying to imitate Lillian Garcia, who is a good announcer to mimic. Swagger trips Riley to put him face-first into the turnbuckle, but after a break, Riley comes out of the corner throwing big fists. Riley dodges Swagger and takes him down. Swagger heads to the corner and Riley gets a Mugshot-like move for one. Riley tries to do a springboard move out of the corner but Swagger hits him with a Big Boot for two, and then starts to dominate him on the mat with blows. Swagger Bomb gets two. Swagger controls Riley by the head, but telegraphs a back body drop so Riley kicks him. Swagger explodes with a clothesline from his knees, and goes back to work on Riley.

Shoulder tackle gets Swagger two, then he tries a chicken win on the mat. Riley punches out, ducks a clothesline and hits a pair of his own. Riley eats an elbow, but immediate responds with a spinebuster. Riley sets up for his floating DDT but Swagger turns it into a belly-to-belly suplex. Swagger looks for another Swagger Bomb, but Riley gets boots up. Riley sets up the "Final Score" finisher, but Swagger slides down for a sunset flip. Riley rolls over and leverages down for a two count. Swagger rolls through and into the Anklelock, but Riley escapes. Riley with the floating DDT, but Swagger kicks out at the last moment. Riley looks frustrated and Swagger looks grateful. They reset the match, and Riley tries Ten Punches again. Swagger throws him off and lands a diving chop block. Swagger with the Anklelock again, and Riley quickly taps.

WINNER: Jack Swagger in 8:00. Very good match. Swagger's always had it, and his motivation lately is through the roof. Riley's proving that he can put on a good match. I liked the back-and-forth and these two worked well together.

4 - WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes) -- non-title match

Air Boom seems to have their own t-Shirts and new, proper music that isn't a mix of either of their theme songs. Nice to see a tag team treated like a team!

Epico and Evan Bourne start off. Epico with a quick armdrag, then forces Bourne into the corner. Bourne jumps over Epico and then hits a pair of Japanese armdrags, the second into an armbar. Some fast Bourne offense, and Bourne brings in Kingston. Weird double team move for two. Scott Stanford hilariously slips in "Show-Miz" in a list of great tag teams along with Degeneration X and Rock 'n Sock Connection. Kingston with a cover for two. Kingston with a sunset flip followed by a double foot stomp for two. Epico gains control and tags in Primo. Kingston with a clothesline on both of them, but Primo regains control, and settles into a cravat.

Primo dumps Kingston to the outside, but when he tries a suicide dive through the ropes, Kingston surprises him with a Pele kick. Kingston with a springboard dropkick which sends Primo across the ring. Primo clears Epico from the apron, and then launches Bourne over the ropes to land a knee on each heel simultaneously. Rosa jaws at Bourne, and they cut to a Hulu commercial.

Back from break, Borune is covering Primo for two. Bourne with kicks to the hamstrings, but Bourne gets dumped into the ropes. Primo with some work and a cheapshot from Epico. Primo mounts Bourne for punches, and brings in Epico. Epico with a back elbow and a short cover, then head control. Lots of camera focus on Rosa at ringside. Epico with a running neckbreaker, and tags in Primo. Primo with a side Russian Legsweep and a bizarre hold when he has a leg scissors on the head and an armbar. Bourne tries to get out, but Primo keeps him away from Kingston. Primo with a schoolboy for two, and then brings Bourne back to the corner and tags in Epico.

Epico with a dropkick for two, and a suplex for two. Primo tags in and the crowd rallies Bourne. Bourne reverses a suplex attempt, and then hits double knees on another reversal and both men are down. double tags and Kingston with a Superman Punch, a pair of clotheslines, and a dropkick on Epico. Another Superman Punch and Kingston sets up for the Boom Drop and gets it. Rosa gets mad as he looks for the Trouble in Paradise, but Epico ducks. Epico charges Kingston, who counters with a pendulum kick. Kingston goes up to and lands the big crossbody, but Primo breaks up the cover. Bourne comes in and tries to clear him with a huracanrana, but Primo reverses and tosses Bourne over the ropes.

Epico gets in some offense, and Primo blind tags in. Kingston lands Trouble in Paradise out of nowhere on Epico, but Primo sneaks up from behind and has the Backstabber for the win. Post-match, the heel trio celebrates. Wow, Rosa Mendes in heels is taller than Primo; I've seen her in person and she's shorter than shown here.

WINNER: Primo and Epico in 10:00. Another slick match featuring these wrestlers. I'd like to see them do a ladders match at TLC. Like previous outings, no one dominated long enough for it to get boring, and the ending wasn't predicted by the action in the ring.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE Smackdown Results: 12-16-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CODY RHODES vs. DANIEL BRYAN

Booker joined in on commentary after his segment. Bryan still had his ribs taped. He tried a quick LeBell Lock :30 into the match, but Rhodes fled to ringside before any damage could be done. They went to break :44 in.

Back at 3:35 of the match. Rhodes went for a leap-frog, but Bryan dropkicked him a little low, just above the waist-line. Cole got on Booker for getting involved in a match rather than focusing on commentary. Rhodes suplexed Bryan from inside the ring to outside. You always hold your breath on that move. Back in the ring, front-first suplex for two. Body-scissors by Rhodes. Rhodes blocked a kick and took the offense to Bryan again, with another two-count at 6:11. Backslide attempt by Bryan, then a magistral cradle for two. Missile dropkick off the second rope by Bryan for a two-count. Cole continued challenging Booker, with the two paying almost no attention to this match. At least they’re using the time to hype up a PPV match. Top-rope back suplex by Bryan, but Rhodes turned in mid-air and landed across Bryan’s ribs. Bryan kicked out at two. Rhodes countered a roll-up, hopped to his feet, and hit Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 8:35. Solid match and a good win for Rhodes. Not sure where this leaves Bryan.

2 – ALICIA FOX vs. NATALYA

Natalya brought a box of tissues to the ring and pretended to cry, using them and then tossing them aside. Fox tried a quick roll-up in the corner, but Natalya held on and stomped Fox in the stomach. Mathews said three Divas will be blogging for Perez Hilton starting on Monday. Abdominal stretch, but Nattie rolled up Fox for two. Fox kicked out, sending Nattie into the ropes, and Fox rolled Natalya up with a small package for the win. She had a handful of extensions too.

WINNER: Fox, at 1:02. As I talked about in my chat with James Caldwell earlier today on the Torch, it looks like Fox is next in line for a Divas Title shot.

3 – THE USOS vs. EPICO & PRIMO

Jimmy and Jey did their Polynesian battle cry atop the stage before they came to the ring. Rosa Mendes accompanied Epico and Primo to the ring. Flying elbow by Jey on Epico for two. Quick tags by the faces early on. A distraction led to Primo bringing Jimmy throat-first over the top rope. Double-team by Primo and Epico. Jey made the hot tag at the 2:00 mark. Running butt splash on Primo in the corner, but the pin was broken up by Epico. Distraction by Rosa led to one of the Usos getting crotched after going to the top rope. Primo hit the backstabber for the pin.

WINNERS: Epico and Primo, at 2:58. I never thought Primo would get off of Superstars let alone get some wins, but he’s been underutilized for a while. Giving him a push and doing it by propping up the tag division is win-win.

4 – THE BIG SHOW vs. JACK SWAGGER

As soon as the bell rang to begin the match, Mark Henry’s music played. He walked out in a Hall of Pain t-shirt, jeans, and carrying a steel chair. Swagger tried to get Show from behind, but Show wasn’t having it. He did manage to take Show off his feet, but not for long. Show mowed Swagger over. Show seemed more motivated with Henry sitting at ringside. Bodyslam on Swagger. Show choked Swagger on the middle rope, then chopped him. Two Swagger bombs in the corner on Show after the All-American American avoided a corner splash. Show made a comeback by chopping Swagger while he was on his knees. The splash connected, as did the shoulder tackle. He signaled for the chokeslam next. Swagger rolled through the chokeslam and hooked on the ankle-lock. Henry yelled for Swagger to “break it (the ankle)!” Show was in the move for a while, but stared at Henry, the broke the hold. Knock-out punch (the WMD) dropped Swagger for the three-count.

WINNER: Show, at 5:46. Good psychology in this one (and I’m sure Henry isn’t terribly sad for Swagger, who blew him off backstage) and Show looked dominant against Swagger.

5 – HEATH SLATER vs. TED DIBIASE

They actually showed clips of the DiBiase Posse that takes place before shows. Roll-up by DiBiase right off the bat. Roll through into a pinning predicament by DiBiase for two. The roll-ups started to frustrate Slater, who slapped DiBiase in the face. Hard whip into the buckle by Slater. Chop off the top rope by Slater for two. DiBiase came back and planted Slater with Dream Street for the pinfall.

WINNER: DiBiase, at 3:09. Another week, another win for DiBiase. Nothing wrong with that.

6 – JINDER MAHAL vs. SHEAMUS

After a collar-and-elbow tie-up, Sheamus took Mahal down. Mahal came back with rights. Size-wise, Mahal matches up surprisingly well with Sheamus. Sheamus avoided a knee-lift, which allowed Sheamus to then nail Mahal across the chest with ten forearms. He launched himself from the apron over the top rope with a shoulder block. Neck-breaker by Mahal for a near-fall. He brought forearms of his own across the chest of Sheamus. Sheamus didn’t allow Mahal an extended offensive run and hit the Irish Curse back-breaker. Brogue Kick finished things.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 3:50. Mahal could use a few quick wins like DiBiase has been getting lately in order to bring that feud back to an even standing.

7 – RANDY ORTON & ZACK RYDER vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER & WADE BARRETT

Ryder face-planted Ziggler, then tagged in Orton at 1:03 of the match. Orton stayed on offense with ease against Ziggler, suplexing him for a two-count. Ryder came back in and Ziggler knocked Ryder off-balance after Ryder headbutted him. Barrett was in and Ryder tagged Orton, but Barrett scampered back to his corner and tagged Ziggler in. Orton took Ziggler down and knocked Barrett off the apron while he was at it, but he took his eye off Ziggler and paid for it. Ziggler countered an Orton back-breaker, and Ryder came in to dropkick him out of the ring. They went to break with the faces standing tall at 4:33.

Back at 8:48 of the match, with Orton having mounted the second rope, delivering punches to the head of Dolph Ziggler. High knee-drop right on target. Ziggler missed a clothesline and it appeared his momentum forced him to slide outside the ring and to ringside – that would’ve been some clothesline – but perhaps it was just a way to allow Barrett to enter the ring and boot Orton in the face. Knee-lift on Orton, then Ziggler tagged in. The heels isolated Orton in their corner. Ryder made the hot tag just after 12:00, and he hit Barrett with the Broski Boot. Rough Ryder missed and Ziggler punched Ryder in the head to stop his momentum. Ryder desperately tried to make a tag, but Ziggler held him back. Barrett tried to hit Wasteland on Ryder, but Ryder countered into a DDT and both men were down at 14:50. Orton finally made the hot tag and took apart Ziggler. Gutwrench into a neck-breaker by Orton for two. Pin was broken up by Barrett. Ryder clotheslined Barrett over the top, but outside the ring, Barrett whipped Ryder into the barricade. Roll-up, with the tights by Ziggler, only got two. Fameasser attempt, but Orton dodged it and RKO’d Ziggler. Barrett was about to interfere before the pin, but Orton made eye contact with him, and that was enough to keep Barrett out of the ring.

WINNERS: Orton and Ryder, at 16:07.

Orton and Barrett continued to stare at each other (Orton in the ring, Barrett standing on a table outside the ring) as the show went off the air.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report)

1 -- U.S. champion DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero) vs. ZACK RYDER -- U.S. title match

Ziggler started with some early offense and "showed off" about his successes. Ryder then blocked a leap frog and catapulted Ziggler into the top turnbuckle. Ryder followed with a clothesline sending Ziggler to the outside, then scored with a flip dive. Fist pump and "Whoo Whoo Whoo" kept the crowd involved. Before the match could return to the ring, Ziggler caught Ryder with a neckbreaker across the ring apron to take control of the action. In the ring, Ziggler landed elbow drop after elbow drop to "show off" again. Meanwhile, Cole and Lawler bantered unintelligently about Ryder's social media movement.

Ryder came back with a dropkick, then multiple clotheslines. Ryder followed with the Broski Boot and connected. Ryder had a pin, but Vickie put Ziggler's foot on the bottom rope. The ref saw it, so he gave Vickie the boot from ringside, much to the crowd's delight. Back in the ring, Ryder rolled up Ziggler from behind, but Ziggler escaped. Ryder then walked into a top-rope neckbreaker and Ziggler tried a quick Zig-Zag, but Ryder avoided. Ziggler came back with a Fameasser, but Ryder kicked out in time.

The action reset with the crowd rallying behind Ryder, who blocked another Zig-Zag, but Ryder walked into a dropkick. Ziggler couldn't put Ryder away, then decided to go up top, but Ryder crotched him. Ryder then set up for and delivered a huracanrana. Cover, but Ziggler kicked out in time. Ryder tried to follow up with the Rough Ryder, but Ziggler blocked, then rolled up Ryder from behind, but Ryder kicked out again.

At 10:00, the crowd rallied behind Ryder again. Ryder delivered double knees to the gut, then dropped Ziggler with the Rough Ryder. Ziggler bumped like crazy for the finish and Ryder made the cover for the pin and the win. Post-match: They cut to a shot of Ryder's Dad and the Big O going nuts ringside. Cole was speechless as Ryder celebrated with the U.S. Title belt. They cut to a shot of Cole with a boo-boo face as Lawler tried to get him to enjoy the moment. Ryder then hit ringside to celebrate with Zack's Dad and the Big O. Ryder stood on the announce table and fist-pumped with the crowd before leaving ringside with the title. Another big reaction for Ryder on the way out before he dropped down on the stage and celebrated the title victory. After a replay of the finish, they went back to Ryder celebrating the win.

WINNER: Ryder at 10:23 to capture the U.S. Title. Excellent opening match. A nice, feel-good moment for Ryder, and the crowd was hot to support the decision to advance Ryder up the ladder. For Ziggler, it could lead to a split from Vickie for a standalone singles run. (**3/4)

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

2 -- WWE tag champions AIR BOOM (EVAN BOURNE & KOFI KINGSTON) vs. EPICO & PRIMO (w/Rosa Mendes)

Before the match, Cole and Lawler recapped Epico & Primo's solid week of victories to earn the title shot tonight. The heel challengers took control of the match after Bourne missed with a high-risk move. Rosa, who continues to get more camera time than Epico & Primo, taunted Bourne as the heels continued to wear him down. Cole, in-between Twitter plugs, predicted a title change, which gave away that the titles are not changing hands.

Bourne finally made a tag to Kofi, who went high-flying on the heels. Kofi delivered the Boom Drop on Primo, then wanted Trouble in Paradise, but Epico ran interference. The action broke down before Kofi caught Primo off the ropes with TIP. It was good for the pin and the win.

WINNERS: Air Boom at 7:32 to retain the Tag Titles. Basic tag match presented as filler after Ryder's match. (*1/2)

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

3 -- RANDY ORTON vs. WADE BARRETT

Orton tried to retrieve a table early on, but Barrett kicked the table into Orton's face. Orton turned the tables, then the match moved to the floor. Referee Jack Doane retrieved gloves from his pocket, so someone was apparently bleeding. The fight moved up the rampway to the stage area as the camera picked up on Barrett having a cut over his right eye. Orton then chased Barrett down the entrance ramp to the ringside area, but Barrett rammed Orton face-first into the ringpost. Barrett followed with a big boot that decked Orton. Barrett then wiped away the blood over his eye before sliding a table into the ring. Barrett also set up a table ringside, then wanted a big splash through the table, but Orton crawled off.

Barrett continued the assault ringside as Orton sold various injuries. Back in the ring, Barrett choked Orton in the ropes and landed multiple knee strikes. Barrett then booted Orton off the ropes, but Orton held his ground on the apron to avoid falling through the table ringside. For his next move, Barrett wanted a running powerslam through a table in the corner, but Orton slipped out and went on the attack. Orton delivered signature offense, including a spike DDT off the second rope. Orton then went to That Place to set up for the RKO, but Barrett countered with the Black Hole Slam.

Barrett resumed the attack by slamming a table onto Orton's chest. Barrett followed up by placing Orton stomach-first on a table. Barrett then went up top and went for a big elbow splash, but Orton popped to his feet and delivered the RKO through the table all in one fluid motion. That came out of nowhere for an emphatic victory for Orton. Lawler suggested Orton was playing opossum to lure Barrett into his trap. Again, Cole was saddened by his "teams" continuing to lose.

WINNER: Orton at 10:16. Another highlight-reel mid-air RKO for Orton. It gives Orton a "win" without Barrett losing much since he wasn't pinned and he dominated most of the match. Overall, solid brawl playing off their well-developed feud. (**)

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

4 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. KELLY KELLY -- Divas Title match

With the addition of three unadvertised matches on the card (Tag Title, Divas Title, and Swagger-Sheamus), this PPV is starting to feel like an episode of Raw. Kelly used her elusiveness to her advantage early on before Beth overpowered Kelly. She couldn't score a pin, though, allowing Kelly to make a comeback. They exchanged nearfalls before Beth countered a handstand into an emphatic overhead facebuster. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 5:17 to retain the Divas Title.

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

5 -- TRIPLE H vs. KEVIN NASH -- Sledgehammer ladder match

Once the bell sounded, Nash landed a knee to the gut. The two men traded blows, with Hunter sporting taped fists to make it look like a street fight. Hunter delivered a blow to the gut that knocked Nash to the outside. On the outside, Nash used a ladder to ram Hunter over the guardrail to the outside. Hunter quickly recovered and clotheslined Nash into the front row on the opposite side of the ringside area. Nash came back with an elbow smash, but Hunter reversed a whip and Nash ate the ringpost. Back-and-forth early on.

Hunter sustained an attack with multiple ladder strikes to the lower body, targeting Nash's left knee. Hunter followed with a figure-four inside the ladder, drawing Ric Flair "Whoos" from the crowd. Nash screamed in agony before Hunter dropped the hold. Moments later, Nash mustered an Irish Whip that sent Hunter flying into a ladder propped up in the corner, then over the top rope to the outside. Back in the ring, Nash dropped Hunter back-first across a ladder with a sidewalk slam. Hunter eventually rolled to the outside for a breather.

On the outside, Nash cleared the announce table, then wanted a Jackknife Powerbomb, but Hunter back-dropped Nash onto the table. In the ring, Hunter tried climbing a ladder for the hammer, but Nash recovered, re-entered the ring, and yanked him down. Nash followed with a chokeslam center ring before going to the outside again. This time, Nash retrieved a table. Nash slid the table into the ring as Cole name-dropped Shawn Michaels and what he must be thinking right now. Nash dropped a strap, then wanted a Powerbomb through the table, but Hunter shoved him away into a ladder. Hunter then shoved Nash to the outside and set up a ladder to retrieve the hammer. Nash recovered, though, and met Hunter on top of the ladder. Hunter grabbed the hammer and bashed it into Nash's head twice, causing Nash to fall off the ladder through the table. Hunter then retrieved the hammer and realized it was now his to use.

Hunter climbed down the ladder, waited for Nash to get up, and delivered multiple hammer strikes to the body. Hunter tossed aside the ladder, then stalked Nash for a decisive blow. Hunter tossed the hammer away, though, and tried the Pedigree, but Nash's legs collapsed. Hunter tried again and connected this time. Hunter wasn't done, though. The crowd wanted one more Pedigree, but Hunter said "no" before measuring Nash for a decisive hammer blow. Before that, Nash flashed the Kliq/Wolfpack signal. Hunter shook his head, then shot Nash a crotch chop before delivering a hammer shot. Hunter made the cover and it was good for the win.

Post-match: After replays of the high points from the match, they showed Nash being placed on a backboard by medics. Nash was then placed on a stretcher and wheeled away from ringside. Hunter screamed at the medics to take Nash away.

WINNER: Hunter at 18:13. Considering their physical limitations and age, this was a solid brawl to conclude the Hunter-Nash feud. A bit slow at times, but they effectively told the story of Hunter conquering Nash. (**1/4)

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

6 -- SHEAMUS vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Cole noted Swagger won his first WWE Title match at TLC two years ago when he sent John Cena through a table. Sheamus dominated early on as the announcers traded light barbs. Vickie then provided a distraction that allowed Sheamus to take control on the outside. Back in the ring, Swagger tried to taunt Sheamus, which only angered Sheamus. Sheamus blasted away with big forearm blows and strikes, but took his eye off Swagger, who knocked Sheamus off the apron to the outside.

Back in the ring, Sheamus recovered and went up top for a flying shoulder tackle that connected. Sheamus made a cover, but Swagger kicked out, which excited Vickie. Sheamus then called for the end, but Swagger ducked a Brogue Kick and clipped Sheamus's left knee. Swagger began focusing on Sheamus's leg, but missed with a corner Swaggerbomb. Swagger then missed with another clip attempt, leading to a Brogue Kick. It was good for the win.

WINNER: Sheamus at 5:57. Another solid win for Sheamus. WWE at least seems to have some interest in re-focusing on Swagger since he lasted more than five minutes and was given a lot of offense in a match similar to Swagger vs. Big Show on Smackdown. (*1/4)

 

[Hot Chocolate]

ROH champs reign in the 'E!?!?! Who'd have thought


now back to you Arcademan

 

[Arcademan]

WWE TLC PPV Results: 12-18-11

7 -- World Hvt. champion MARK HENRY vs. BIG SHOW -- World Hvt. Title match

The bell sounded and Show immediately slipped to the outside to slowly walk around the ring throwing chairs into the ring. Henry swatted a few chairs away, then Show re-entered the ring to start fighting. Henry had other ideas and slipped out of the ring, telling Show he's out of his mind. Henry retrieved his title belt and said this isn't happening. Henry started to leave, but Show caught up with him on the outside. Show ducked a belt shot, then bashed a chair over Henry's back three or four times. Henry absorbed the blows, though, and delivered a chair shot to the back. Henry then smashed Show's injured hand into the ring steps before jabbing him in the gut with a chair.

Back in the ring, the two men crashed chairs together a la a swordfight. Show sold the effects, though, with his hand injury. Henry followed with a chair shot to the back before talking trash. Henry went for a big chair shot, but Show side-stepped it and delivered the KO Punch. Show sold a hand injury and couldn't make an immediate cover. He then rolled Henry over and scored a pinfall to capture the World Title. The crowd didn't immediately react since the sequence seemed to come out of nowhere.

WINNER: Show at 5:31 to capture the World Title.

Post-match: Henry clipped Show from behind with a chair, then DDT'ed Big Show into a chair. Henry pounded the mat in frustration as a few fans in the arena chanted for Daniel Bryan. Suddenly, Bryan's music played and Bryan stormed the ring with referee Scott Armstrong.

8 -- World Hvt. champion BIG SHOW vs. DANIEL BRYAN -- World Hvt. Title match

Bryan rolled over Big Show and scored a three count to capture the World Title. Bryan accepted the title and began celebrating as Show sat up on one knee selling that he was stunned. Bryan celebrated, then flashed the title belt in Cole's face. Cole sat stunned as Bryan celebrated with the crowd. The camera focused on Show again as he flashed a wink and a smile toward no one in particular. Bryan then stopped to look at the title belt in his possession after locking eyes with Show. They replayed Bryan's cash-in as Cole noted Show was supportive of Bryan's career for the past few months. Back live, they showed Bryan continuing to celebrate the win as Show disappeared to the back. On the stage, Bryan held up his title belt for the crowd to see.

WINNER: Bryan at 0:07 to capture the World Title. Well, that certainly shakes things up. A lot to digest here with Show, Henry, Orton, and Sheamus in the title picture. I doubt Bryan's title reign will last long, but it eliminates Bryan's World Title cash-in situation at WrestleMania and opens up the Royal Rumble winner to receive a title shot at WM28. It seemed like this was more of a maintenance move before the Rumble next month.

9 -- IC champion CODY RHODES vs. BOOKER T -- Intercontinental Title match

Booker teed off on Rhodes to begin the match, taking out his anger on the champ. Booker followed with a side kick and scored a close nearfall. Cole said nothing would shock him tonight at this point. Booker then dumped Rhodes to the outside and taunted Booker in-between strikes. Back in the ring, Rhodes attacked Booker's left leg before the two men collided mid-ring. After a pause, they reset with an exchange of right hand bombs. Booker got the best of the exchange before delivering a Harlem Heat spinebuster. Rhodes rolled to the apron, then Booker made eye contact with the crowd and did a Spin-a-rooni. It took a lot out of Booker, though, and he came to his feet selling dizziness. Booker tried a variety of trademark kicks that Rhodes ducked, then Cody hit his step-up enziguiri for a believable nearfall. Cody followed with another kick to the head, and it was good for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes at 7:18 to retain the IC Title. Good heel win for Rhodes after the multiple pre-match attacks and Booker looked good in the ring. Booker said before the PPV this was probably his last match, but they could get another match out of this feud.