Forbidden is the Promised Land

WWE's annual Royal Rumble pay per view is scheduled for January 26, 2014, giving a little more than a month to combine superstars from all over the WWE roster, and allow for some surprise entrants such as Booker T, Road Dogg, Big Daddy Cool Diesel, and others to name a few.

The Icon

This is also the same time of year where rumors are started about the legendary Icon, Sting, to jump ship from TNA to WWE's own ragtag group of misfits, solidify his career within four months with a defining moment at Wrestlemania, take his payout, and retire. Questions that circle around touch many different subjects, such as who does Sting face? When will he return? Will he be just a wrestler?

At this point, who knows. However, Sting currently is the oldest active wrestler between both rosters at 54, and the next oldest "active" wrestler is the Undertaker at 48, who at this point in time, isn't really active anymore (the oldest recurring "active" superstar for this statement to be legitimate would be Kurt Angle at 45). And therein lies the rumors--will Sting and Undertaker, the oldest remaining dogs in wrestling, battle it out at Wrestlemania 30? Or will Sting remain in TNA and retire?

These questions branch out to even more theories and oddball suggestions within the IWC. But my main question is, does Sting really want to venture into the wrestling Promised Land after twelve years of his original NWA/WCW home of fourteen years? Think about it... if Sting is given just four months to cement a legacy in the WWE after his expansive twenty-six year wrestling history, what could he possibly do to outshine all of it in that time frame? Is it even possible? Sensible critics say that the only way the Stinger can even equal all of this is by going toe-to-toe with the Phenom and defeating him on his own stage--in his own yard.

Would Sting come back and Beat the Streak?

Yes... that's right. Beating the Streak.

Granted, Sting doesn't need the rub. He doesn't need to be glorified to the extent of what a much younger superstar would benefit by putting down the biggest prize in all of the WWE. But who would benefit, rightly so?

One of the newer superstars? Someone in his mid-to-late twenties/early thirties to take down a man nearly twice his age and a fraction of his schedule? Disrespectful. Granted, a then-24 year old Randy Orton took on the Undertaker at Wrestlemania 21, but Undertaker himself was 38, in much better shape and actively wrestling then. Would have been a great birthday present for Orton to Beat the Streak (recently passed on April 1, 2005), but Orton became tally 13. Undertaker hasn't been in the best of shape, seen at Wrestlemania 29 against CM Punk. Triple H and Shawn Michaels did a number on the Undertaker in the years beforehand, and it shows. For the past ten years (save for Orton, and CM Punk), Undertaker has been pitted against opponents close to him in age.

John Cena? There have been talks about Cena facing the Undertaker for a while now, and has possibly been penned in for such a match, but does Cena need the rub from being in the match? Highly doubtful. John Cena has his own star power, and should be far away from anything Taker related.

Someone he's faced before? No. Frankly, Shawn Michaels was the only thing I could enjoy back to back

Would this possibly be the future for Sting as WWE Champion?

because the story behind it was legendary. Shawn Michaels WAS Mr. Wrestlemania, and Undertaker stood in the way of ultimate Wrestlemania history. Triple H (now a corporate big wig) placed himself in the Phenom's path three times in the past, and just needs to step away from the limelight. And what about our current WWE World Heavyweight champion? Randy Orton can be a surefire back up in case plans fall through, but it isn't necessary. CM Punk himself doesn't need another Taker feud, and everyone else on down the path of being his victims have become too old to make some relevancy.

Now before I get ahead of myself, if and only if Sting returns to the WWE, he needs to face the Undertaker. It needs to be booked for any sort of relevancy. IF it happens. Why? The WCW Icon who has never set foot in WWE territory facing the promotion's very own legend. Similar to an invasion angle, but this time, it's to settle the all-time question.

Of course, Vince McMahon won't let something from WCW beat him. Too proud. And quite honestly, I don't think Undertaker would job to Sting. But it would make for one hell of a storyline to entice Sting back. A WCW legend that never stepped foot in the WWE for over 26 years, comes to Vince's Promised Land, and beats the streak of WWE's own tailor made. It would be a huge slap in the face of the company, storyline intended, and if pitched the idea, I would guess Sting would no doubt go for it.

But that would be the only way Sting would be relevant in the WWE, and make something within a four month timeframe.

Now, this is all opinion on if Sting came to the WWE. My personal opinion?

Don't step one toe in the WWE. Retire as the only superstar that didn't need the machine. Make it to where

Is The Phenomenal One, AJ Styles
reaching out to the WWE?

the machine needed him. That's the biggest slap in the face of all. Speaking of, AJ Styles could benefit from not reaching out to the WWE. He has made an impact (in IMPACT! Ban pun, I know) outside of the WWE, and he doesn't need to join their ranks. Styles would be a "flash in the pan" superstar, and then minimized to the mid-card after a solid run.

I will reiterate; Sting is the oldest active wrestler to date; even Ric Flair himself "retired" from the WWE at 59, and Ric Flair had little steam left in him at that point. Sting has had an illustrious career outside of the WWE, and doesn't need a short term contract to possibly end his career on a high note. On top of that, Sting himself has expressed that he declined a contract from the WWE back in 2001 because he saw Booker T treated as a nobody by the Rock. Times have changed, of course, but would Sting be treated as a superstar? Or would he be buried by Taker, Cena, Orton, or even a rookie?

Today, World Wrestling Entertainment mass-produces and churns out superstars by the dozen. But before all this, there were several different promotions that people have made a name for themselves, and are synonymous with that company. There isn't a competitive domestic ship to jump from WWE, as TNA is much lower on the food chain than the corporate wrestling giant. However, the originals that stick with their company, who are loyalists and make a name for themselves create their own legacy and refuse to have a company defecate on their pride.

Sting is one of these superstars. AJ Styles can be another.

I would much rather Sting finish and hang his boots up in TNA. Accept an invitation to the WWE Hall Of Fame (since WCW and all rights are owned by WWE, I'd understand that), but never wrestle there. Sting's legacy has already tested the length of time. And his legacy should be known forever as the established Superstar who never wrestled for the WWE.

Thanks for reading, everyone! Stay tuned for more from The Wrestling Spectator, and follow us on Facebook!!

TLC 2013 Breakdown

Hello wrestling fans! It's been quite some time from my last article, but now I am ready, and back in action! Today, I will be reviewing the upcoming WWE pay per view "TLC". The main focus on this PPV is the unification of the World Heavyweight Championship and the WWE Championship once again, an event recreated from Vengeance 2001 with Chris Jericho becoming the first ever Undisputed WWE Champion by defeating then-World Heavyweight Champion The Rock, and then-WWE Champion Steve Austin.

We will have a new Unified Champion in the WWE, but who?

Dolph Ziggler vs. Fandango

I've noticed a lot of these "kick-off" shows that have former established superstars before the actual event. This sounds a lot like Sunday Night Heat in a way, but Heat was intended to start fresh wrestlers, not established main eventers. Both of these men have headlined Wrestlemania at one time or another, and now they're at the bottom rung of a PPV? Everyone is entitled to their own opinion of course, but with the high amount of diluted WWE programming is absurd. Simplicity is a key factor. WWE has their hands in so many cookie jars for advertising and marketing that it's unnecessary and bores the general public.

I'll get off my soap box, but this is a debate for another day.

Fandango and Ziggler shouldn't be this low on the card. It's outstanding to see them on the card at all, considering TLC 2013 is saturated with cheap bread, condiments, joined with a thin slice of cheese. No meat, all filler. In any event, this is the "kick-off" match to get things started for the PPV and liven up the crowd. Ziggler has been on a losing streak for four months ever since his break up with AJ (she goes up, he goes down) with the various mid-card championship chases. The guy can't catch a break, and now he's been delegated to face off against Fandango. I consider Fandango to be part of the "was promsing-less serious" aspects of wrestling--the Wade Barretts, Tensais, David Otungas... wrestlers that were destined for something great so long ago and part of what has been swept under the rug. Tensai(Albert) was scripted to to come back and demolish John Cena...

...never happened.

I can't tell who's going to win this one. Since Dolph is in a funk, and Fandango is on a similar path (spotted wins here and there), it'll be tough to decide. Frankly, I'm in high regard for Ziggler to make a win out of this one and get himself back in the title chase, and get away from wrestlers who have nothing going for them outside of your typical comedy act.

Prediction: Dolph Ziggler

Diva's Championship: AJ Lee(c) vs. Natalya

The Diva's division has slowly built itself up (and by slowly, I mean at a snail's pace) through the past few months, but I still can't help to use a bathroom break each time a cat fight breaks out on WWE TV. The Diva's division within the WWE hasn't turned a profit since the days of Lita and Trish Stratus, and even then, it wasn't a comparable dime to profit with...

...until Total Divas. The WWE-based reality show goes behind the scenes of half of the Diva division into their personal lives, and somewhat branches off into other superstars' lives as well (cue in John Cena and Daniel Bryan for starters). This employed idea ALONE grasps hundreds of people's attention because there is that hidden magic that no one sees outside of the typical WWE programming; what happens outside of RAW and Smackdown? This is, in my personal opinion, what is driving the vast majority to this show. It has been bumping the Diva's division little by little because of the outside exposure, but within the ring... I still see nothing that holds together any interest. All I see is a bunch of older high school girls squaking about their differences with a freshman who thinks she's Queen Bee.

Nonetheless, I think AJ Lee and the Diva's Championship has run its course. If WWE had maintained the power couple between her and Dolph Ziggler as World Heavyweight Champion, she may have more relevance and impact on the Diva's division. However, the WWE decided to go a different direction with Ziggles. It is time that we have a face Diva's champion, and with Natalya only having a little more than a one time, two month reign, it should be her chance to shine. Not only that, I hope by putting the title on Natalya, it will pull her away from that ridiculous clown disaster team of Hornswoggle and Khali.

Prediction: Natalya Neidhart

WWE Tag Team Championship; Fatal 4-Way Match: Goldust & Cody Rhodes(c) vs. Rey Mysterio & Big Show vs. Ryback & Curtis Axel vs. The Real Americans

A last minute championship addition to TLC 2013, this match has eight star powerhouses, and with so many egos clashing in one squared circle, it'll be a chaotic mess. An awesome chaotic mess. The tag division, in my personal opinion, has flourished into something much better from the past few years. Not as good as in the 90s, but definitely watchable. This is another match (outside of the main event) that I would definitely be tuning in to watch. Anything that I have watched within the past few months that have to do with the Rhodes brothers has made WWE that much more to stomach.

However...

Goldust has been lobbying for a Brother vs. Brother match before his return to the WWE. Is this still the Wrestlemania intent? Will there be any turn against one another at TLC? This should be playing in the back of every one's mind at the end of TLC. Then again, Cody and Goldust have been working very well together, and Goldust himself is in the best shape of his career and he fits in the tag team picture with his brother. Personally, I would absolutely hate this tag team to break up as it is a huge staple in the current development, but I think that it would put asses in seats. Some seats. A typical sibling rivalry, escalated in the ring over years of neglect from the American Dream.

Just an idea. I could be wrong.

Going down to the Big Show and Rey Mysterio, these two were frequently pitted against each other in tag matches and singles matches, even stemming to a "David vs. Goliath" match from a Big Show elimination at Survivor Series '05. So, by my research, this will be the first time that these two team up. Storyline wise, these two have been at it for quite some time, and now finally decide to team up for a quick tag team bout. I've seen much more weird things (the Rock 'N' Sock connection to be one of them).

The team of Ryback and Curtis Axel, I think, is a strong team, rebirthed as Paul Heyman "rejects". Not necessarily rejects in the sense that they may be quite a formidable tag team, and could dominate the division like the Rhodes have. I see big things in the future of these two superstars in 2014 if they stay relevant, and stay heels. Ryback and Axel can be like the school yard bullies starting trouble in the WWE Universe. I wouldn't mind to see these two as tag champs and pull off a nice little run, but we shall see.

The Real Americans I just cannot take seriously. Swagger has become a lame duck, and Colter is just a supporting comedic crutch. Cesaro is being pulled down in this whole comedy act, and has potential to be a part of something bigger. The Intercontinental Championship will become similar in prestige of the World Heavyweight Title, and much more individuals will be gunning after Langston (or future title holders), aching to bridge the gap between being an IC champion to the WWE Championship. And Cesaro should be part of that elite group. He's the only thing that keeps me interested in the Real Americans (that Cesaro Swing is killer, by the way), but as a group, it's just another wrestling faux pas that I get up and get a sandwich.

Prediction: It'll be a hard one, as usual with four way matches, and even more with tag teams. I'm going with the champs to retain.

Rhodes & Goldust: 70%
Ryback & Axel: 50%
Big Show & Mysterio: 40%
Real Americans: 20%

Intercontinental Championship: Big E Langston(c) vs. Damien Sandow

I liked the idea behind Cody Rhodes bringing back the "prestige" to the Intercontinental Championship (as all heels say that they will do sometime during their reign) and showcased the white IC title. However, I don't think that it fits well with Langston (or Curtis Axel, or any modern day champion). I am glad that Axel is no longer in the picture, and has made somewhat of a good tag team with Ryback (as "former" Heyman guys). With a little more fine-tuning, I'm pretty sure that Ryback and Axel would make for decent tag champs. But enough about what isn't to be. Axel is gone, and now WWE has pitted Langston against the "Savior of the Masses", Damien Sandow in a quick turn of events for the IC title. Langston is such a big guy, that I highly doubt Sandow will be able to knock him down off his championship run, and I see Langston as a credible Intercontinental title holder, and with being such, could be launched into the title picture. The upper card should be composed of very strong mid-card titles holder, and if Langston can hold his own, he'll be able to maintain a top spot in the WWE. It would be entertaining to see an Intercontinental Champion VS a WWE Champion match.

With that being said, and with John Cena having internal backing on the Big E, Langston will continue to hold the IC title for a long time, and dominate the mid-card.

Prediction: Big E Langston

CM Punk vs. The Shield (3-on-1 Handicap Match)

There is no reason that this match up should have even been booked. I understand the whole plot issue with both faces being punished, but between CM Punk and Bryan, it isn't needed. Honestly, this should have been a 2-on-3 handicap match for the Tag Team titles with Punk/Bryan and the Shield, continuing the IWC indy gloryfest storyline with Punk and Bryan since both superstars have been buried to mid-card players. As the 3-on-1 handicap went with the Big Show a few weeks ago, I don't see CM Punk tallying a win without some sort of outside interference from Bryan.

On the flip side of this match, the Shield have nothing better to do than to do Triple H's dirty work. As rumors have been floating around on the IWC, this is going to set up a future feud between Punk and Triple H, to which we will possibly see a continuation of the feud from Night of Champions '11. This also serves to be a temporary fix for the Shield to keep themselves relevant until their next task from the C.O.O.

Punk won't walk away from this one clean.

Prediction: The Shield

Daniel Bryan vs. The Wyatt Family (3-on-1 Handicap Match)

Another match up that really isn't necessary, but this one has a bit of build up and story behind it. It keeps Daniel Bryan busy until his "fair" WWE Championship rematch in 2014, and it builds the Wyatt Family up to be credible. Bray Wyatt, with the transformation from Husky Harris, has made something of himself as that creepy and sadistic persona--it's something that works for him, and it isn't too far out, or too cartoony. This is someone that could possibly be in the bayous of Louisiana in a horror flick.

Kidnapping aside, I think that Bryan will be "following the buzzards" after a nasty beat down and disappear for a while as what happened with Kane. Then again, Kane came back as a corporate big-wig, totally out of left field. Bryan will get the loss and disappear for a few weeks to allow a small program for Cena to develop (possibly a rematch clause from Orton) and squash real soon just in time for Bryan's return.

Prediction: The Wyatt Family  

WWE Unification Match: World Heavyweight Champion John Cena vs. WWE Champion Randy Orton (Tables, Ladders & Chairs Match)

What this PPV is all about. The ONLY match that people will be paying for, if they pay for this PPV at all. WWE is touting this to be a historic match eleven years in the making (Vengeance 2001). And no where in the TLC page describes anything about the original WWE/WHC Championship match... as if it never happened. There hasn't been any other mention of it even on television, Which is truly disappointing to say the least, because at Vengeance 2001 was a turning point in WWE's own history to finally unify the defunct WCW with the WWE.

This time around, the WWE is in need of one champion, one great individual that can be the target of the entire federation. With the brand split finally at an end, WWE feels that there isn't a need for two champions, as Cena and Orton respectively have shown up at both shows over the past few weeks, and this is simply to create and setup the next few months of programming and make it easier upon the writers.

This small feud started when John Cena began speaking in cahoots with The Authority (Triple H and Stephanie McMahon) and suggested that there be only one champion on November 25, sparking Randy Orton to lose what composure he had. Jumping to a small conclusion, Cena just wants to be WWE Champion again and to do away with the ridiculousness of the WHC title, but that's just my thoughts running through my head. The Authority thought of that to be a great idea (storyline wise anyway), and now at TLC, there will be a newly crowned WWE Unified Champion.

Between the two, John Cena and Randy Orton have had a long and storied clash since early 2004 (even before that in OVW), a lot of bad blood, and this will be a shining moment with both individuals, and will open up new possibilities and more feuds similar to that before the WCW/WWE Invasion storylines.

All in all, Cena will undoubtedly be the new WWE Unified Champion, and the "Face of the WWE". There were talks roughly ten days ago that there wouldn't be a crowned champion at TLC (pushing the storyline for the Unification out until Wrestlemania 30), but for simplicities sake, one champion is all is needed...

... for the time being. Needless to say, I feel that the TLC Unified WWE Championship match was a bit rushed, and that WWE Creative is struggling to put something together in a short amount of time. Deadlines change all the time, but the idea stays the same--At TLC, one man is walking away with two titles.

Prediction: John Cena


With a continuing thought, with no brand split and one WWE champion, I am interested to see usage of the United States Championship like the European Championship was back in the late 90s. Digging up some past archives during the Monday Night Wars, the only championships that were around at that point in time were the WWF Championship, the Intercontinental Championship, the European Championship, the WWF Tag Team championships, the Light Heavyweight Championship, and the Hardcore Championship. With the current set up, all the WWE is missing is the LHC, and the Hardcore championship, and since the WWE needs to stay PG oriented and has a new slew of cruiserweights in the roster, this would be the perfect opportunity to bring back the Cruiserweight title, and have those superstars still relevant. It creates a mix and variety of action (instead of having bruisers lumbering about for WWE title shots), and allows the WWE product to stay fresh and maintain interest in not only the flagship show of RAW, but the fast actioned pace of Smackdown... on how it used to be.

Thanks for reading! And see you at TLC!

Heat and Water

As I was beginning my musings on the upcoming TLC pay per view blog, I took a stand on my soap box and began a rant regarding the diluted programming of today's WWE and yester-years WWF programming. What was successful back then that could be used in today's era?

Understandably, if it isn't broken, don't fix it. But considering that there is so much advertising and marketing for the WWE right now, and with so many different programs that saturate our televisions at home, who can honestly keep track? WWE RAW; Smackdown; Main Event; Superstars; WWE NXT; AM RAW; and Total Divas, along with alternative programming overseas, such as Bottom Line, Afterburn, Vintage Collection, Experience, This Week in WWE, and Free For All. A total of thirteen programs, and where Germany and Austria show nine out of these thirteen! This total infiltration of WWE/TV is unnecessary and superficial, and not only does it pollute the airwaves, I would be hard pressed to think that this is also watering down what ratings RAW and Smackdown should be getting.

Case in point; from what I remember, about the time of the brand split, there was RAW, and Smackdown as your major shows. Then ECW/WWE (which was a poor rendition of what it should have been), Heat and Velocity. I'm not going to work with ECW as it was a rebirth disgrace that was beaten into the ground as a minor "C" show, but I will focus on Heat and Velocity for this blog.

A Velocity Moment Brought to you by Billy Gunn
and Mark Jindrak (07/17/2004)

At the point in time with a brand split, Heat and Velocity worked in tandem with their major counterparts, and allowed the lower mid-card some viable TV time, and even allowed new stars to come up from the rankings of OVW and FCW to showcase talent on TV. It was a minor pollution, and it kept the roster relevant. Heat and Velocity also allowed a handful of Cruiserweights to develop, even having a Velocity Cruiserweight Championship battle royal at one point in October 2005.

A battle royal of cruiserweights. I don't think there are even enough cruiserweights in the WWE to have enough for a battle royal.

The Olympic Gold Medalist makes his WWF Debut
on WWF Heat!

With the inception of the WWE Network, I can see the use of all this programming (plus tons more) allowed on a channel that displays 24/7 WWE wrestling. However, there has been rumor of the WWE network to be a premium channel. For those who aren't vastly rich or do not want to fork out a monthly fee for the service of the WWE Network, regular WWE TV should be limited to the two "A" shows within the week, a "C" show allowing nothing above mid card, and a recap of the week.

WWE Monday Night RAW.
WWE Friday Night Smackdown.
WWE Sunday Night NXT.
And Saturday Morning Slam.

Grand Master Sexay and Steve Blackman working together
on Heat. Mid-card talent used the right way on the
right show.

Whatever is left over should be designated to the WWE Network. Saturate that channel with all of the overflow for the hardcore and the nostalgic. And keep national TV simple. As there isn't a brand split any longer, and after Sunday's TLC pay per view, the WWE Champion can float over both shows, and be a target across the board. The Intercontinental title can stay specifically to RAW and be a top tier title defended solely on RAW, and the same idea goes for the US Championship for Smackdown. NXT should be influenced strictly by the rookies, lower mid-card, and cruiserweights, and can be the "kick-off" before a pay per view; and Saturday Morning Slam can have a continuation of NXT talent and a week's recap over one hour for those who missed all week (because the IWC doesn't have recaps and dirtsheets), or need a summary on a Saturday Morning.

This way, things stay simple, and WWE Creative could churn out much better storylines and programming on free TV. Just a thought, McMahon. I want to see the WWE product succeed just as much as the next fan, and this is why I take a few hours of my time, research, and write such compelling information with a non-profit stance. I bet anything TNA could take this same approach, SEPARATE THEMSELVES FROM THE NORM, and be a successful contender. But I don't see that happening. Not with the current management. Talent is there, mindset isn't.

Either way, this is my short rant before Sunday rears its head and presents to us a rushed and shameful product. But you'll get to hear that on Saturday. Take care, Spectators, and I will see you soon!

WWE Money In the Bank PPV

Hello, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to another edition of the Wrestling Spectator's WWE pay-per-view predictions! I apologize for the long hiatus, but the Wrestling Spectator is back, and in action! We have a couple of articles to be posted in the next couple of days, but let's get started with tonight's Money In the Bank Pay Per View!

WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

SETH ROLLINS/ROMAN REIGNS V. THE USOS

As Triple H is taking more and more control of the WWE as one of the big wigs, we have seen an attempt to slowly revive the tag team division. No more is the way of Kane/Daniel Bryan at the Tag Team Championship helm; the WWE has taken shape a number of new tag teams; Rhodes Scholars, Prime Time Players, Tons of Funk, 3MB, Colter's Militia, the Usos, and a branch of the Shield. Granted, it's not the tag team era of yester-year, but it is a clean start to focus on the tag team championship. TWS appreciates the re-focusing on the tag team division, and while it is a work in progress, it is a fresh start. Hopefully Triple H can take a few more teams from NXT and mold them into future tag team superstars.

The Usos have been a major focus in the tag team division, and creative has pushed for the Usos to look like a credible tag team in contention to the Shield. The Shield no longer has a commendable winning streak, having lost to Team Hell No/Randy Orton, and to Christian/The Usos. Rollins and Reigns, without the aide of Ambrose, as a tag team have not been pinned in their reign as champions, and the Usos have not individually pinned either of the tag champs. TWS cannot see the Usos taking the titles away from Rollins and Reigns. At least, not this time without help of some kind. The Shield has maintained an image of tenacity; the Usos are barely making an image with defeating the likes of 3MB and Tons of Funk. TWS believes that if the Usos are to be taken seriously, they should take out other credible tag teams to become legitimate champions.

TWS Prediction: The Shield Retains

CHRIS JERICHO V. RYBACK

This feud opened up with Chris Jericho doing what he does best, and that was antagonize the biggest and baddest mo'fo-er in the WWE.

Well, Ryback isn't the baddest any longer, but again, Jericho took the proverbial stick and picked a fight with the junkyard dog. "Cryback" became a new moniker under the eyes of Jericho, and he couldn't be more right on the money. Ryback hasn't won a PPV match in such a long time (going on exactly one year with his win at last year's MITB), and TWS believes that it could be his time. Why? A little foreshadowing, if you will. Creative has given Ryback something outside of SuperCena and WWE Pet Project The Shield to work with in a talent that has no issue with building stars. Over the last few months, Jericho himself lent a hand to Dolph Ziggler, CM Punk, Fandango, and others along the way, and I think that this will be the same token; Ryback needs another push, and Jericho has now been known to be such cannon fodder for the stars. Further, Jericho has an upcoming Fozzy tour, and what better way to "put Jericho on the shelf" by a brutal Ryback beat down?

Last week on RAW, Ryback was also involved with a farewell hug to former General Manager Vickie Guerrero. Vickie, a woman who can garnish a massive amount of heat, would be the perfect manager for Ryback. He won't have to speak, and the WWE Universe will hate him on the sheer fact that he has aligned himself with Guerrero. On top of having her as a heat-seeking manager, Ryback has developed feigning injury to the referees, a cowardly heel move. Genius.

Vickie will be a factor in MITB for Ryback, for sure, and even if she isn't around, TWS predicts the win will be handed to the Skip... er Ryback.

TWS Prediction: Ryback

DIVA'S CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

AJ LEE V. KAITLYN

Two best friends turned into two greatest enemies.

The element of a good feud is here. Both superstars were best friends at one point in time, and now ruthless enemies. One knows the strengths and weaknesses of the other, and the other knows what buttons to press and hurt. AJ has played an emotional game with Kaitlyn, and that's how a Diva does it. Women can be cunning, conniving, and flat out evil when they want to be, and AJ plays that part very well. She isn't an Amazon woman; she has Langston as her muscle. But she is playing the female cerebral assassin. And it is getting to the point where the entire Diva's division is getting involved in AJ's devastation. As much as the division has crumbled, I love the build-up. And all of the Divas can be brought into this, because of the outside exposure of E! Entertainment's "Total Divas". It's a solid plug for both the WWE, the Divas, and E! Entertainment.

I just wish that all of the other Divas could act a little better and put on a convincing show. Most of the WWE girls sound scripted.

Whatever is good for the goose, is good for the gander. AJ should be kept as the little engine that could, whether or not she is face or heel. Having the strap on her, and keeping it on her is a great idea, and it would also make for the WWE Power Couple of her and Dolph. However, Ziggler is slowly (and uncontrollably) turning face, and AJ is stuck being a heel. There may be some friction between the two. But at this point in time, AJ should go over Kaitlyn and show that bigger isn't always better, especially in the Diva's division.

TWS Prediction: AJ Lee

INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

THE MIZ V. CURTIS AXEL

It has been a compelling chase for the Intercontinental Championship for the past few months. A lot of the popular mid-card superstars have been beating each over the head with gold in their sights, and the IC title has landed on the waist of WWE's newest third generation superstar, Joe Hennig, also known as a portmanteau of his dad and grandfather, Curt Hennig and Larry "The Axe" Hennig; Curtis Axel. Aligned with the brilliant booking genius, Paul Heyman, Axel has nowhere to go but up. And Axel will be pushed to the stars, if given the right opportunities. He has recently been showing signs of weakness, being pinned by Chris Jericho and ultimately being made a fool of in recent matches, but winning at MITB will keep Axel solidly in place from here on out for quite some time.

The Miz has been on a winning streak ever since his in-ring return after a month hiatus, defeating Wade Barrett, Heath Slater, Fandango, and Cody Rhodes to name a few casulties. It would be difficult to say if The Miz has a chance to defeat the rookie Axel at MITB. With Heyman potentially losing CM Punk as his partner in crime, if Axel does indeed lose at MITB, Heyman's effectiveness to build stars will have ultimately gone away. Time will tell. TWS is torn between the sides of Axel/Miz, and with the heels predicting wins, this should be one that goes for the faces. Miz is on too much of a winning streak to have it fall flat on its face.

TWS Prediction: The Miz

WHC CONTRACT MITB MATCH

BARRETT V. RHODES V. SANDOW V. AMBROSE V. FANDANGO V. SWAGGER V. CESARO

The mid-card all rolled into one. The main concept behind the Money in the Bank ladder match is to propel young up-and-comers into stardom. The concept is behind many PPV gimmicks, such as the Royal Rumble, King of the Ring, Survivor Series, and so on. Money in the Bank is no exception, and save for Jack Swagger, all other participants in this match have not seen major title opportunities. Swagger should not even been included in this match, but the WWE prefers repetition, so if Rhodes and Sandow are included, why not throw in another tag team and eliminate another match that doesn't draw. The MITB briefcase, as WWE commentary has mentioned time and time again, guarantees a title win. Statistically speaking, not one superstar has lost by pinfall or submission, but the only superstar ever to cash in and fail to take home gold was, ironically, John Cena by way of disqualification.

With the recent legal troubles that Swagger has gotten himself into, there should be zero interest in him taking the MITB briefcase. WWE gave him Colter as a mouthpiece and a WHC opportunity at Elimination Chamber, and failed by getting himself into drug troubles. TWS would be highly disappointed in seeing Swagger walk out as a briefcase holder.

Wade Barrett as the very beginning of his career as the Nexus leader showed a lot of promise, but was whittled down to no more than a mid-card faction leader of the Corre, and even more embarrassed by scraping on the mid-card bottom. WWE gave him an opportunity with the Intercontinental Championship, but he let that go as well. Barrett would be a great heavyweight champion, if he was coupled with a solid storyline to back him. However, Barrett doesn't seem likely to walk out a MITB winner.

Dean Ambrose is a favorite to walk out as the contract carrier, and it could happen with Rollins and Reigns getting involved in the chaos of the six-man ladder match. A win would make Ambrose the only man to walk in a champion and walk out a contract holder, and quite possibly be a dual-champion by the end of Sunday night.

Fandango, with his recent medical issues regarding concussions, lost his momentum going into MITB. With several losses to Jericho, TWS believes that Fandango let the A's breathe and his missed his footing from his winning debut at Wrestlemania. Baby steps, Fandango.

As a former Intercontinental Champion, Cody Rhodes may be able to do what his father and his older brother could never do, and that would be an opportunity to capture a contract for the World Heavyweight Championship with a win at MITB. As a second-generation superstar, Rhodes has a lot to live up to, and being as young as he is in his WWE career, he has surpassed many other superstars much older than him. A favorite to win... but not quite. Rhodes does have the experience, as this will be his fourth MITB ladder match, but he will have a break down from Sandow, and with multiple egos together in one ring, TWS believes it will be a tough obstacle for Rhodes to climb.

Damien Sandow has the looks, the charisma, and the pompous arrogance for his character to be a very convincing winner at MITB. Sandow is reminiscent of the debuting Hunter Hurst Helmsley, better known as Triple H, with the "blueblood" gimmick. Triple H himself had to start somewhere, and this is where Sandow seems to be at, and during the early HHH years, there was no Money in the Bank matches to propel stars quicker into the major title picture. TWS believes that winning MITB would give so much more to Sandow's character, and solify him as a serious contender in the WWE. Even though Sandow has been involved in one other MITB ladder match, Sandow is a TWS favorite.

Antonio Cesaro is the other TWS favorite to walk out MITB contract holder. New to the MITB match, Cesaro has shown to be a ruthless aggressor, and much more promising than Swagger in Colter's Militia. It is odd that Cesaro would join Colter as he was deep into his character as Swiss made, but with a MITB WHC winning opportunity, and Colter as a mouthpiece, Cesaro would, in TWS opinion, be the best candidate to have a chance to steal the WHC away.

TWS Prediction:
Wade Barrett: 30%
Cody Rhodes: 50%
Damien Sandow: 70%
Dean Ambrose: 60%
Fandango: 40%
Jack Swagger: 20%
Antonio Cesaro: 80%

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MITB MATCH

ORTON V. RVD V. CM PUNK V. BRYAN V. CHRISTIAN V. SHEAMUS

WWE has christened this the "WWE All-Star Match" for MITB. All former champions, clamoring for a spot at the top of the mountain; for the WWE Championship. The idea behind the two MITB matches is absolutely brilliant; the World Heavyweight Championship MITB match should go to mid-card talent. Wrestlers that are popular with the WWE Universe, or at least have taken a taste of the US Championship or Intercontinental Championship; and for the WWE Championship MITB should go to former major title holders. Viewers may be against seeing old faces in the WWE title picture, but granted, John Cena is one of the most routine faces the WWE Universe sees every day. "The Champ Is Here" is getting stale. Some aren't even WWE Title holders. ROb Van Dam, Christian, and Daniel Bryan have not had the WWE Championship around their waist. But TWS believes that this will change.

As it stands, the wrestling dirt sheets all have heard rumors that Daniel Bryan will start a feud with John Cena in the next couple of months. Whether Cena retains the title tonight determines the outcome of the MITB All Stars Match. Or vice-versa (as this will be contested before Cena's match with Henry). This is a high improbability, seeing as though if Cena loses, he will undoubtedly invoke his rematch clause, and the Bryan/Cena match is nixed. We would have enjoyed RVD to win his return match, but TWS has a feeling that CM Punk will have a nice new feud with another Paul Heyman guy. Orton will most likely have some time off to handle his real-life personal problems, and Christian and Sheamus will be lost in the upper mid-card shuffle.

TWS Prediction:
Randy Orton: 40%
Rob Van Dam: 60%
CM Punk: 50%
Daniel Bryan: 80%
Christian: 30%
Sheamus: 70%

WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

ALBERTO DEL RIO V. DOLPH ZIGGLER

These two have had such a heated rivalry ever since Dolph lost the WHC championship to Del Rio at WWE Payback. With a double alignment turn with Del Rio becoming heel, and Ziggler turning face, Ziggler has shown a tenacious "never say die" attitude and keeps fighting for the sake of getting the WHC back around his waist. TWS considers the scenario between Ziggler and AJ Lee/Langston interesting as AJ has went off on her own tangent, as well as Ziggler, and AJ Lee has kept the heel persona. If Dolph wins the WHC, how will the chemistry work between these three? A WWE Power Couple that serves as both face/heel?

In any event, Ziggler has been a fan favorite, and looking into the WHC MITB ladder match, all participants are heels. It wouldn't be smart business per Vinnie Mac to have a heel vs. heel championship match, so TWS goes to support Ziggler in his win tonight.

TWS Prediction: Dolph Ziggler

WWE CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

JOHN CENA V. MARK HENRY

When Mark Henry made his "fake" retirement speech, and hit Cena with the World's Strongest Slam, the delivery was absolutely epic. And this is the type of storyline that creative should go with to make characters convincing. Henry came from the era where storylines meant something, and they built characters into believable indivduals that a viewer could get behind and rally upon. "Yeah! I want to see Mark Henry win!" or "Kurt Angle had trouble with his gold medals! Let's see him win in Pittsburg!" Today's product is a re-hash and is watered down from what the older fans are used to. And Cena is an unbelievable workhorse; but take the strap off of him once in a great while. I wouldn't mind seeing Mark Henry run with the WWE Championship for a few months, as I believe The World's Strongest Man can be a great champion. Get Teddy Long, Michael Hayes, Tony Atlas, even the Prime Time Players (with Teddy? Thuggin' and Buggin'!) would make a great stable to connect Mark Henry with. When was the last time the WWE had a convincing African-American stable? Including a world champion?

Alas, as McMahon said a few weeks ago, whatever is good for business... And Mark Henry hasn't been good for business. Cena will ultimately win, and will go on to feud with Daniel Bryan for the next six months or so until Bryan loses clean while cashing in. What a waste of an exiting talent.

TWS Prediction: John Cena

There you have it, TWS readers! It's been a little busy, but here at TWS, we will strive to get you the most compelling opinionated articles on a timely basis! Watch WWE's Pay Per View Money in the Bank tonight for all the results!

Three Stages from Seven Circles

John Cena has upped the ante when it comes to Ryback's personal choice of an ambulance match at WWE Payback into a Three Stages of Hell match. There have been only three other TSOH matches in the history of the WWE, and coincidentally, they all involved Triple H. The Corporate Son isn't involved in Payback's main event in any capacity, so this will be new territory for both men. I believe that Triple H himself thought of the idea for both men, as we haven't seen a TSOH match for about four years. But nonetheless, Three Stages of Hell is a nasty set-up, controversially more so than a Hell in a Cell or Steel Cage match because this can embody that stipulation PLUS others!

Triple H has fought three of the WWE's toughest competitors in the TSOH match, from Stone Cold Steve Austin, to Shawn Michaels, and finally Randy Orton at The Bash in 2009. Winning two out of three matches, and finally passing on the torch to Orton in a loss, this match was designed to take a WWE Superstar to a whole new element, and bring them out of their "one match" comfort zone. Below is the history of the Three Stages of Hell match.

Triple H vs Austin       No Way Out '01    Street fight No DQ Match    Cage
Triple H vs Michaels   Armageddon '02 Street fight Steel cage            Ladder
Orton vs Triple H       The Bash '09  One Fall         Falls count Anywhere    Stretcher
Cena vs Ryback   Payback '13  Lumberjack Tables Match    Ambulance

I have heard throughout the IWC community that these "stages of hell" at the upcoming Payback PPV would be absolutely hell to watch. Considering the slow pace at Wrestlemania XXIX with the Rock and Cena, I honestly hope that isn't the same plan going into Payback, as we have a little over two weeks (two RAWs) to build up to what could be an interesting storyline outside of the typical nonsense that is currently playing out. In my honest and humble opinion, the repeated "Ryback shows up, looks at Cena, Cena is taken out by the Shield, Ryback picks at the pieces" business only works on one or two occasions. We understand that Ryback is angry at Cena. And we know that he's trying to establish himself as a heel. However, WWE Creative needs to pull their heads out of their asses and make something happen that creates a bit of substance and makes the TSOH match credible.

SCSA vs HHH No Way Out 2001

Take a look at the incarnation of the Three Stages of Hell; Triple H failed to win the WWF Championship from Stone Cold Steve Austin, and had Stone Cold run down with a car by Rikishi, putting him out for nine months. Austin came back, and was attacked again (almost run over again by Triple H), multiple times by Triple H, until finally Mr. McMahon came up with the idea of the Three Stages of Hell match to settle their differences, adding a stipulation that if either one touches one of the other, they would lose their championship shot. Austin then attacked Stephanie McMahon (Trips wife), and Triple H attacked Jim Ross (Austin's friend). This was a heated rivalry that NEEDED a Three Stages of Hell culminating point because of all the madness and chaos. McMahon came through and demanded that all of this nonsense needed to stop. And it did. Triple H felt accomplished to where he needed to be in the main event at Wrestlemania, and it propelled The Game to where he needed to be.

HHH vs HBK Armageddon 2002

The second Three Stages of Hell Match was between Triple H and his longtime best friend/worst enemy, Shawn Michaels. The history between these two superstars was big, and a rivalry between them at Armageddon 2002 to culminate into the Three Stages of Hell became even more "personal". And the fire between Triple H and HBK continued and still continues even up to today. Armageddon 2002 built up around Triple H and Michaels chasing the WWE Championship since Summerslam 2002, going back and forth in their feud up until December 9th 2002, where General Manager Eric Bischoff invoked the Three Stages of Hell match between Michaels and Triple H for the WWE Championship. With Ric Flair adding fuel to the fire between them, Michaels retaliated with a shovel, a trash can, and even launched himself off of a TV trailer onto Triple H. Eventually, Triple H pulled out the victory in the last Ladder match event.

HHH vs Orton The Bash 2009

The last Three Stages of Hell match was Triple H facing his protege, Randy Orton. There was bad blood between Triple H and Orton from Orton's days back in Evolution, and this was no different. With a win at Extreme Rules 2009, Batista was taken out by Orton and putting him on the shelf, which led to a Fatal Four Way match on the following RAW to determine the new champion. With Orton defeating John Cena, Triple H, and The Big Show, he solidified himself as WWE Champion. Never one to be defeated, Triple H himself went right back and won a 10-Man Battle Royal to become the number one contender. Vince McMahon acquired WWE RAW back from then-"owner" Donald Trump and made the match for The Bash 2009 the Three Stages of Hell match. Randy Orton went on to defeat Triple H at his own playground with help from Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr.

Vince McMahon should be able to call a TSOH match,
not the superstars

Now, with going back in time through the history of this match, there was history between the competitors. Ryback is a fresh face (repackaged from Skip Sheffield) in the WWE, and there isn't much between Cena and Ryback to really solidify a Three Stages of Hell match and settle their differences (if any). On top of that, wrestlers don't throw themselves in this match. Vince McMahon and Eric Bischoff (in managerial capacity) made these matches, which created some structure to them. Three Stages of Hell was used primarily to force bickering superstars to stop. It was an end-all for feuds, and with Ryback and Cena, that should be the initial idea. However, from what I see, Cena came out, and decided to call Ryback's bluff with a "bigger" match. This reminds me of a man's "pissing contest" on who can shoot the longest stream, and that's not what this match should be used for. John Cena should have taken the match as an Ambulance Match, and beat Ryback at his own game. But this won't be the case.

Three Stages of Hell with Cena and Edge would have
been monumental!

I have been a fan of Cena *when it makes sense.* I'm a fan of any wrestler *when it makes sense.* A Three Stages of Hell match would have been amazing, for example,  between Cena and Edge. They had bad blood, feuds that rivaled many in WWE history. Both men were always at one another's throats, grasping for the title. Cena and Ryback haven't had anything intense. I honestly hope that Cena is beaten at his own game. It's not that I don't like Cena. It's just time for a new era. I also don't think that Ryback is the man that Cena should lose to in such a match like this, but beggars can't be choosers.

I'm a Paul Heyman Guy

Be a Paul Heyman Guy

With CM Punk MIA until a rumored return for Payback in his hometown of Chicago, and Brock Lesnar taking a step away from the WWE until Summerslam, Paul Heyman foreshadowed another WWE superstar to be the next "Heyman Guy". Last night, we saw the re-package of Joe Hennig/Michael McGillicutty as Curtis Axel. A portmanteau of his dad, Curt Hennig and his grandfather's nickname, Larry "The Axe" Hennig (Curt-is Axe-l), Hennig became the next Paul Heyman guy and his debut match under the new moniker was against WWE's Corporate Son, Triple H.

Curtis Axel makes his debut last night at WWE RAW!

Following Wrestling 101 and not making either superstar look weak, Triple H "suffered a concussion" to take him off of TV for a while. I absolutely hate these recent matches to protect one wrestler or the other. I understand that it is necessary to do so, but credibility is such a leading factor into building storylines that it doesn't make any sense. Hennig should have went clean over Triple H with an easy pin. Going back to Wrestling 101, Triple H used all the necessary foreshadowing; "I'm going to wrestling. Doctor is a quack." Etcetera. Use that concussion to Hennig's advantage as a "heel" character, put him away, and start strong. "I'm the guy that put Triple H away on my debut match!"

Behind the Gorilla Position, Hennig has two powerful allies to push him to the stars; Triple H and the Rock. The Rock has quite a bit of influence within the WWE, and with Triple H's own favoritism, Hennig will most likely be a top star pretty soon. Sheamus was heavily pushed by Triple H and brought up from ECW a few years back, and Sheamus has yet to fall from where he is, and I see the Celtic Warrior in the chase for the World Heavyweight Title pretty soon.

Many Superstars of today have been under the tutelage of
Paul Heyman at one point or another.

But again, this isn't about Sheamus or Triple H. This isn't even about Hennig. This article is about the genius Jew from New York with a former extreme legacy; Paul Heyman. My prior articles mention Paul Heyman sporadically, but in all honesty (and quite argumentative), Paul Heyman is one of, if not the greatest minds in the wrestling business today, and has been for the last twenty years. Heyman has over thirty-five "Heyman Guys" that he has managed over his wrestling tenure, from the likes of "Mean" Mark Callous (who then became the Undertaker), Stunning Steve (Austin), Larry Zbyszko, Kurt Angle... just to name a few. And nearly every superstar that Heyman has placed his Midas Touch upon has been a major star at one point or another. Joe Hennig should take the ball he has been given, and run with it. Become the next John Cena, Randy Orton, or even Sheamus. With Paul Heyman at the Hennig wheel, Curtis Axel will be unstoppable.

To be today's star, be a Paul Heyman guy.

Extreme Rules 2013 Predictions

Hello Wrestling Spectator Fans! I know it has been awhile since I have last blogged on the wonderful world of wrestling, but trivial personal matters did hinder my writing flow, but now, like The Miz, I am back and here to write about what is slated less than a week away; Extreme Rules. There has been much build-up over the past couple of weeks, in and out of the squared circle for Extreme Rules, and it doesn't look to be a bad card. However, I am highly hoping that this PPV ends quite a bit of feuds between several superstars, and allows them to move forward from here on out. My predictions this time around are a little more biased, as there is quite a bit of uncertainty with a lot of these competitors.

With that said, let's take a look at this Sunday's lineup and match breakdowns.

YouTube Exclusive Preshow Match

The Miz vs. Cody Rhodes

With the YouTube Preshow jump-starting the Extreme Rules PPV, I really like this match to get the ball rolling. Both The Miz and Cody Rhodes are very impressive, in my mind, and continue to be the future of the WWE. It's a shame to see this match-up between two high-caliber superstars on YouTube and not on the actual show. But, it is better to see them than Brodus Clay and Sweet T on the card at any point. 

My prediction is that The Miz takes a win, and with an amazing match-up. Cody Rhodes will put up a great fight, but as the Miz himself said on RAW, "I'm Back!" And I don't consider anything less from him, and I expect to see him back in the title picture real soon, even contending against Rhodes for it. 

Speaking of... where is Wade Barrett? Get that IC Title off of him and put it on one of these guys!! 

Tornado Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship

Team Hell No (c) vs. The Shield's Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns

Everyone knew this was in the works. With Team Hell No feuding with The Shield since their inception and their dominating streak versus the odd pairing, The Shield takes part in Kane's challenge for the Tag Team Championships here at Extreme Rules. Instead of the typical tag stipulations, all four members will be in the ring, and it takes just one pinfall for the champs to lose the titles. And I believe it is time for the Shield to reign supreme and to hold the belts for as long as they can. Granted they are short one member in the match, but who is to say that Ambrose will accompany his partners and cause a ruckus. If, however, Team Hell No pulls off a victory, it won't be clean; I expect a disqualification of some sort IF and only if Kane and Bryan retain gold.

Looking back at last year's Extreme Rules, both Kane and Daniel Bryan were split in singles matches, to which they both took a crippling loss to Randy Orton and Sheamus, respectively. I don't think there will be anything different in Sunday's match-up, as nobody has legitimately toppled off the Shield, ever.

WINNER: The Shield as NEW WWE Tag Team Champions

WWE United States Championship

Kofi Kingston (c) vs. Dean Ambrose

A new opponent for Kofi!! I'm excited for this match-up, just for the simple fact that Kofi isn't taking on Wade Barrett, or Antonio Cesaro, or another mid-carder that the title can slingshot back and forth from. I am torn with another potential win for the Shield. With all three members holding titles, the Shield would be the most dominant stable since possibly D-Generation X, save for possible discussion. I want to lean toward a Kofi win, but I just don't think that Kofi can draw enough to be a credible title holder.

It's interesting to note that neither Kofi or Ambrose (or any member of the Shield being so new) were on the Extreme Rules card.

WINNER: Kofi Kingston to retain.

Chris Jericho vs. Fandango

Jericho puts up or shuts up against Faaaaaahn-Daaaaaahn-Goooohhhh (even Fandango is getting tired of it, I can see) in a Wrestlemania XXIX rematch. The always-entertaining Jericho does wonders for this feud, and continues to make Johnny Curtis look like a legitimate WWE superstar, and this is what Jericho has and continues to do for rising talent. He's done it all in the business, and to pass the torch should be the norm for superstars of Jericho's caliber. Superstars of Jericho's generation seem to have a tough time jobbing to newer faces in the WWE, but I am thrilled to see him make a name for himself by being the guy to beat. "To be the man..." comes to mind; Jericho IS the man, and with top-tier matches with stars like Bryan and Curtis (even his recent match with Ryback was well-received), he is doing what he needs to do and keep his band Fozzy up and running. He does what he does to make his fans happy, and whether he wins or loses, Jericho puts on a great match with great in-ring chemistry with anyone he goes toe to toe with.

Fandango, on the other hand, performs a great heel character, and plays off Jericho and his outside adventures quite well. Johnny Curtis, as Fandango, can and will develop into a great heel, if he plays his cards right. I don't think the dancing gimmick will last for very long, but an eccentric egotistical playboy may work in his favor. Who knows?

Taking a look back at last years' Extreme Rules, Jericho was involved in the WWE Championship match against CM Punk in a Chicago Street Fight. Punk walked away the winner, and I believe this time around, Jericho will do the same to invoke a rubber match to end all this dancing shenanigans at the next PPV. Again, I may be a bit biased here, as I have been a Jericholic since the days of Y2J.

WINNER: Chris Jericho

Extreme Rules Match

Randy Orton vs. The Big Show

Why don't we call this a Hardcore match and call it a day? I can understand why Orton is facing Big Show because of the Wrestlemania fiasco, but I haven't seen much interaction between these two. Orton is usually facing some mid-carder, to which Orton is much more skilled to do so, and there is no altercation without Big Show being a little girl about things, coming and then going as quick as he does. Wrestling 101; Big Show should be involved heavily in Orton's matches, or at least make to where Orton loses each and every one. I understand that the WWE needs to make Orton look strong going into Extreme Rules, but do so in a powerful match in the go-home show, and make that statement; "I won't back down!"

Both gentlemen were involved in last years' pay-per-view. One walked out the winner, and the other lost gold. Orton pulled off an impressive win over the Big Red Machine Kane last year, whereas Big Show "took a step" in the wrong direction and put himself through a table trying to regain his balance and lost the Intercontinental Championship to Cody Rhodes. I consider that a lousy finish, but it was in the rulebook, and the ruling stood. Being in St. Louis, I'd be hard pressed to see babyface Orton lose in his hometown. But I feel that there may be more to Orton's win tonight.

WINNER: Randy Orton

Strap Match

Sheamus vs. Mark Henry

Bring on the Hall of Pain! Week after week of being absolutely humiliated and taken advantage of by Sheamus, I highly believe that Mark Henry will take the strap and whip the living bejeebus out of the Irish Warrior. This time, it'll be fair, Mark Henry won't need to show off with his theatrics of being the "World's Strongest Man" and take Sheamus to the cleaners. This is also cemented in the fact that Sheamus is too carefree when it comes to such a big guy like Henry, and Henry himself should not be taken lightly. I believe that Henry will take the victory here, but with a little bit of a struggle.

Extreme Rules 2012 had Sheamus retain the World Heavyweight Championship against little Daniel Bryan in a Two out of Three Falls Match, winning 2-1. This match came about on Bryan's rematch clause after losing the World title within 18 seconds to a lightning-quick Brogue Kick.

WINNER: Mark Henry

Steel Cage Match

Triple H vs. Brock Lesnar

I've said it before, and I'll say it again... for Brock Lesnar to regain any sort of credibility, he MUST go over Triple H, and he needs to go over him clean. Rumors are swirling in the IWC that the reason behind the cage match is to where either competitor does not need to be pinned or tap out to a submission. If Brock does win without a pinfall/submission, I'd consider that a cheap way to protect WWE's Corporate Son, and I see that as another way to continue the feud, as "I was never pinned" or what-have-you. Paul Heyman would use that to his advantage day in and day out; "You never pinned my client, Triple H!!" Unless, Wrestler A dismantles Wrestler B so horridly, that they walk out the cage with attitude. But in typical WWE fashion, this won't happen. While I wish that this weren't the case, Triple H will most likely go over in the match "for retribution and revenge."

Lesnar was featured in last years' Extreme Rules against John Cena in his return match since 2004. Lesnar took an Attitude Adjustment on the steel steps to be put away for a couple of months. With the sporadic appearances, it's not working for him. Lesnar should be more of a mainstay, and be an unstoppable force.

WINNER: Triple H

Number 1 Contender for the World Heavvweight Championship "I Quit" Match

Alberto Del Rio vs. Jack Swagger

This match screams ADR all over it. And I couldn't agree more. Heel champion Ziggler, Face challenger Del Rio... disgruntled side-man Coulter, er Swagger; what more can a championship match ask for? Personally, I loved the idea of a Triple Threat Match here at Extreme Rules, but with Swagger poorly executing his wrestling skills on Dolph, it put the champion out of commission for a while. And honestly, I would have STILL maintained a Triple Threat Match and put Langston in to "retain" the integrity of the champion, and make it that much more tougher on the challengers. But, once again, I am not WWE Creative, and I don't call the shots. If Vince reads this, I'm looking for an opportunity!

Back to my original statements here. Alberto Del Rio needs to go back after his title. Getting it back in his hands is another story. I would like to see Ziggler go on and retain the World Heavyweight Championship for quite some time, as I believe that he's a fresh champion, and if he can stay away from injury, he will be a fan favorite.

As Alberto Del Rio was not on ER2012 last year, out with an injury, Swagger was. However, Swagger was Ziggler's own lackey at the time on the lower end of the card. Funny how things wind themselves together one year later.

WINNER: Swagger says I Quit. 

Last Man Standing Match for the WWE Championship

John Cena (c) vs. Ryback

Michael Cole said it best; John Cena has gone 4-0 at Extreme Rules. Cole, however, is completely inaccurate with pay-per-views about this time and John Cena's streak. Going back even further, Cena has been 7-0 with chronological order at an "Extreme Rules" type of event.

(2012)  Brock Lesnar (Extreme Rules Match)
(2011)* John Morrison, The Miz (Triple Threat Steel Cage)
(2010)* Batista (Last Man Standing)
(2009)  Big Show (Submission)
(2008)  John Bradshaw Layfield (First Blood, One Night Stand)
(2007)* The Great Khali (Falls Count Anywhere, One Night Stand)
(2006)* Rob Van Dam (Extreme Rules, One Night Stand)

*For the WWE Championship

Does Cena continue the streak? Or does Ryback smash it into oblivion? I'm honestly surprised that the WWE hasn't marketed Cena to be "extreme" with seven consecutive wins in this case, but I don't think that the WWE is even aware, or pays attention of what ECW used to be about. But a win is a win. And Cena has seven of them.

With Cena's kryptonite ankle injury, it will be a main focus on what Ryback will try and dismantle the WWE Champion with. And as Ryback has said, he is the biggest threat to Cena's gold. Hard to argue, considering that Cena could not legitimately put away Batista in 2010 in the same type of match. And Batista himself is in the same category with big men as Ryback is, and in comparison, Ryback seems to be a little more focused, and much more aggressive. And with the Shield looming close by as a wild card, I'm going with Ryback in this one. I've seen Cena downed by Alberto Del Rio and Edge in Last Man Standing matches. It's a possibility that Ryback walks away a winner.

WINNER: Ryback

Thank you, ladies and gentleman for taking a stop on by and reading my articles! Look for more in the upcoming future!

The Rock and his mild-mannered ego, Dwayne Johnson

The Rock claims in a recent statement, that he may have wrestled his last match at Wrestlemania 29.

"Mania may have been my last match. The 3 year goal was to come in & elevate the @WWE. Then proudly 'do the honors'."

~Source: http://www.WrestlingInc.com/wi/news/2013/0426/562324/rock-qa-highlights-was-wrestlemania-his-last-match/#ixzz2RgjOmfHk

Of course, there is a lot of speculation that this wasn't The Rock's last match; this blogger believes that The Rock's "true" last match was at Summerslam 2002 against Brock Lesnar.

This was the last match that we saw "The Rock" and not "Dwayne Johnson". When every People's Elbow, Sharpshooter, and Rock Bottom mattered. Granted, The Rock still has passion in the business, but this last match was before all the glitz, glamour, and showmanship that he currently possesses. Before Hollywood. Taking a look at this match and the Rock's most recent match at Wrestlemania 29, I was watching two different men. At Wrestlemania, there was no intensity, no drive, no passion. There wasn't even a "kip-up"! Everyone knew, from Cena, to The Rock, to the WWE Universe, that this was not The Rock; it was Dwayne Johnson. At Summerslam 2002, New York was on their feet in a match that was half as long!!

Ironically enough, the WWE wanted to put The Rock against Brock Lesnar at Extreme Rules before he developed an injury. And honestly, I guarantee that The Rock wouldn't have the same tenacity as he had back in 2002. He put Paul Heyman through the announcer's table! Lesnar on the other hand, would kill the Rock at his current stage. And, of course, much of the results within the WWE are scripted, of course, but in the natural order of things, there are so many differences involved between the Rock of old, and the Dwayne Johnson of today.

Critics may say that I may be too harsh on The Rock. I disagree in that statement entirely. The Rock should not have ever returned unless it was to go all out in a blaze of glory. However, that was not the case. He came back with opportunity given to him; he took away CM Punk's impressive title reign to set up a WWE Championship match with John Cena. And Cena himself has just as much as a bad hand in this as the Rock does. I can understand the "passing of the torch" as Hogan did to The Rock to John Cena, but not in the way it happened over six months. It was quick, cheap, and it devalued a lot of the Rock's wrestling career, and it created a ripple effect that tarnished the reputation that CM Punk built on the WWE Championship. And everyone knew at Wrestlemania 28 that John Cena would be WWE Champion, the Rock would give it to him, and go right back into Hollywood, riding off into the sunset.

The Rock, before he hit Hollywood, was the WWE's Superman. Much like Hogan was Superman back in the Golden Era, the Rock one of the few superstars every child wanted to emulate. Cena has taken that mantle now, because of his own drive. But the difference between the Rock in the Attitude Era and Cena of today is that Cena has been shoved down our throats day in and day out without any break in between as a record holding 11-time WWE Champion. And now, we don't even have Dwayne riding off into the sunset; he's put on the shelf and scolded by film producers to stop wrestling because it's bad for their pockets. AND HE LISTENS!! Then again, Vince is no longer writing his checks; Hollywood is.

All in all, whether we have The Rock or Dwayne Johnson, I respect the man for everything he has done for the wrestling business, and what he continues to do even though he doesn't necessarily need to return to wrestling entertainment. He is also a talented actor (in some aspects; never do children's movies again). Granted, I am disappointed that he didn't go out the way he may have wanted to, and I am pretty sure he shares similar sentiments, but I would be more impressed if the Rock went out on a higher note with a differently packaged Cena. A face Cena defeating a face Rock did nothing for credibility in the Wrestlemania 29 match for either man, It wasn't exciting, and it just hurt the Rock.

Dwayne Johnson needs to stay in Hollywood. If the Rock ever returned, he should return as the man of steel he once was.

Just not like this. 

Bring the Rubbers; It'll be a Quickie

With the conclusion of Wrestlemania XXIX and the past two Monday Night RAWs, the WWE Creative Team had to do some scrambling as their plans for Rock 'n' Brock immediately were nixed with the injury that the Rock endured at MetLife Stadium. So, with that said, we are now going to have Brock and Triple H Part III at Extreme Rules. Entering the PPV with a victory over one another, this will be the "rubber match" that hopefully and finally decides the end of these two superstars.

Brock Lesnar needs to put Triple H away. But that most likely won't be the outcome. Why? Simply because  Lesnar is only in the WWE for a payday. Solid worker, but he will take either win or loss, and walk away with money in his hand. That's why Triple H went over Lesnar at 'Mania; Lesnar took the loss for money.

But with Brock Lesnar falling to the Game, what does that do for his character? If Lesnar loses at Extreme Rules, Creative loses as well; they lose the credibility in a major part timer to put over another part timer who is already nearing his end as an active superstar. So, in reality, what is the point? This mirrors Vince McMahon going over any superstar he put himself in front of back in the Attitude Era--just for the glitz, glamour, and spotlight. With now being a corporate man, Triple H doesn't need to hog the lime light and go over every superstar in the WWE; sure, he's frickin' Triple H, but he's a man with a shirt and tie now. Recently, Paul Heyman had joked in an interview that if he had control and how he would run the WWE differently, he "would fire the McMahons immediately". That's not a bad idea.

Lesnar needs a win to ensure his dominance as a character. This is what Wrestlemania XXIX was lacking, with the entire WWE in general; there is no character development. There is inconsistency within the ranks, and without any solid foundation on whether or not Brock Lesnar continues to keep Heyman around and corral the monster Lesnar, how would the next opponent for Brock stack up? Lesnar loses to Triple H in an Extreme Rules Cage Match, and his next opponent is Sheamus--Sheamus had taken Triple H out in a Street Fight and kept him off of TV for ten months, so if Triple H can take out Brock... so can Sheamus. It isn't consistent. And it looks bad in the audience's eyes, unless there is some sort of build that makes Brock look dominant. Which Creative has a problem of doing. Take a look at Extreme Rules two years ago, with Triple H having a rough time with the Celtic Warrior below.

Another possibility (after Brock puts away Triple H) could be a potential Batista return. Rumors have stated that since Dave Bautista's MMA and movie careers are not progressing in the way that he would like them to, and with the Rock out of the picture, Batista would be pushed to return as soon as humanly possible. But it also leads to believe, will Batista become another part timer? When The Animal became a top superstar in the WWE, he was awesome. Then Creative turned him into a whiny little bitch, everything shy from his original, dominant

persona. It was absolutely ridiculous, and it buried Batista's credibility because he was "leaving the company". I've noticed a lot of superstars who are on their way out are buried and humiliated tremendously, which really doesn't burn bridges for some who would like to return, and leaves a sour taste in superstars' mouths.

The new "part timer" contracts aren't needed, and it gives an unnecessary amount of leverage for many past superstars to come back, work whenever they feel like, and leave without a moment's notice. Batista has noticed Brock, Rocky, Triple H, Undertaker, and others working the easy schedule, and he's chomping at the bit. Other past superstars, like Batista and now RVD, are more than likely going to take advantage, which is also going to de-value the product, in my opinion.

The WWE should focus on developing talent to their potential, and kick the part timers to the curb. Nobody wants to work a full-time schedule, but they want to get paid the money for full-time.