WWE Royal Rumble 2014

WWE Royal Rumble 2014

The Road to Wrestlemania continues this Sunday with one of the last stops along with way in Pittsburgh, PA. As a few matches are already within the works and ready to go, the results of the PPV creates the mold for what's happening in the next few months and what becomes Wrestlemania, as everyone who follows WWE knows very well. Being Saturday evening, the PPV card is typically set, along with one or two changes between now and Sunday. I foresee a mid-title and a Diva's Championship match being added to the card, but at this point in time, would it really matter or change any draw for the event?

I didn't think so.

In any event, I prefer the Royal Rumble over any other pay per view as my top pick. Why? Because of the Rumble itself. For the past 26 years, the unpredictability of which wrestler appears next is what appeals to me, the unique structure of the match itself, and also the recent idea of inactive superstar returns. Who will be the next guy? Who will win? Granted, the winner is more often than not pencilled in within "striking distance" or written into the plot of the night, but the idea behind the Royal Rumble cannot be compared over anything. There are similar, smaller 15-man Battle Royals, yet the Royal Rumble event creates anticipation for me and employs the best showcasing out of all the superstars.

I am tuning in to see the surprise entrants. From Mick Foley, Mr. Perfect, Kharma, Diesel, and even last year's Chris Jericho returns, my mind is abuzz of who would return;

- The crows nest looks a little empty.
- Nothin' like an Irish Brogue, fella.
- The peeps! The peeps!
- Thirty years, brother! Eat your vitamins.
- The Rumble is in Pittsburgh. Oh, it's true. It's damn true.

And the final question: Who wins?

Now, I am lead to the card itself, outside of the Rumble. In my opinion, the rest of the card doesn't bring too much to the show. Individually, several superstars have grown in character, and have made something of themselves, but I don't see 5-star matches rising from the PPV where they should arise from.

Kickoff Show Match for the WWE Tag Team Championships:
Cody Rhodes & Goldust (c) vs. The New Age Outlaws

For the past few months, The Brotherhood have made each and every tag match I've seen them in more and more easier to watch. Cody Rhodes and Goldust have singlehandedly rebuilt the tag team division, and their stay power as champions have drawn more credibility to the gold. The Tag Team Championships have more credibility at this point than the US Championship. Why? Because they're always defended, and are defended within the quality of the match-ups in which they are defended in.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, the Kickoff show proudly brings to you an old-school taste of WWE Attitude with the New Age Outlaws. Throw in a Goldust in his prime and his younger brother, and this gets the crowd riled up, for sure. I like this match on paper, and I'm pretty sure that the match will be a great one. For nostalgia purposes, I'd love to see the New Age Outlaws take the win here, and for storyline purposes, it would be a fantastic way to build a storyline up with repetitive losses between the Brotherhood for a brother on brother match at Wrestlemania (as Goldust originally intended). I'm split 50/50 on this, because if and only if WWE decides to begin the brother to brother feud, the loss needs to happen now for a solid build up. Recently, Goldust had made a mention of pulling back his original request to feud with Cody Rhodes at Wrestlemania, but this may be just to deter the average smark away from the real match at Wrestlemania. Who knows.

All in all, I'm going with the New Age Outlaws as a D-Generation X rehash win to spark the feud between Rhodes and Goldust. It'll be very entertaining to see NAO back in action and working as tag champs.

Winner: The New Age Outlaws.

Daniel Bryan vs. Bray Wyatt

From what I've noticed, anything that develops with the Wyatt Family starts and finishes as a huge cluster of nonsense that drives me up the wall, as if WWE doesn't know what to do with the Wyatts but want to make them relevant. First it was Kane, then CM Punk and Daniel Bryan, now just Bryan alone. Whatever happened to CM Punk??

Oh, that's right. He's in his own feud that makes no sense with the Shield.

On top of that, Bryan joins the Family, and leaves not even a month later. What kind of madness is that?? It seems as though Vince McMahon and Triple H really are into the "bigger than life" wrestling superstars and want to leave the Indies where they should be on the mid-card, because Daniel Bryan has been pushed and buried, pushed and buried since Summerslam 2013. Take a step forward, then two steps back into the mid-card.

Drives me nuts.

Bryan needs this win to go over into the Road to Wrestlemania strong. Rumors are flying around that Sheamus is expected to return from his injury, and there will indeed be a rematch between both Bryan and Sheamus at Wrestlemania XXVIII. Hopefully it lasts longer than eighteen seconds.

On the other end, Bray Wyatt is rumored to face John Cena at Wrestlemania. Another oddball feud that comes out of nowhere! Again with the random attacks upon unsuspecting individuals. Granted, it's outstanding to see Cena take a step back out of the spotlight and become a team player, but the random feuds with the Wyatts are just to keep them relevant and in the eye of the general public.

Wyatt takes the loss to move on and build himself back up (and be buried by SuperCena at Wrestlemania), and Bryan needs the win to elevate himself into Wrestlemania.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

Big Show vs. Brock Lesnar

Another throwback from the beginning of the Ruthless Aggression era, with Big Show once again facing the likes of Paul Heyman and the Beast Incarnate--Brock Lesnar. Both superstars are older and wiser. Not sure if they're in better shape since the last time they collided, but if we get to see the ring collapse, I'll smile and mark out.

I'm honestly surprised Paul Heyman isn't more of a mouthpiece for Lesnar, reminding us with every piece of WWE programming that Lesnar is the man to beat, building up his client like a heel manager should. No wrestling. No competing until the Rumble. Just enough to gather such irritability and heat to make Show look like a hero lumbering from the Gorilla Position to the ring on Sunday.

Since returning, Lesnar has inserted himself in top-card feuds, slowly taking a step down in each feud. First Cena, then Triple H, CM Punk (with a win to his credibility), and now Big Show. Big Show needs to be dominated and destroyed. Why? Because Lesnar is having less and less of a meaningful match, and with the rumored match at Wrestlemania, he absolutely cannot lose.

Lesnar must look strong going into Wrestlemania, especially if he's challenging the streak.

Big Show has nothing lined up from here until the Big One. Maybe taking some time off? Time will tell.

Winner: Brock Lesnar

30-Superstar WWE Royal Rumble Match

As with every year, the Royal Rumble match is tradition for twenty six years, and the winner goes on to headline Wrestlemania. And what makes this Royal Rumble match so unique, is for the simple fact that there is no secondary title for the second place. That irked me about the brand split; why reward mediocrity? If you can't win the Rumble, you get squat. Get a number one contender for the World Heavyweight title at Elimination Chamber and move on.

This year, that won't be the case. Thirty men enter. One man leaves on top of the mountain. With the title unification, I am also curious to know if the Money in the Bank PPV will no longer be a PPV, and instead return at Wrestlemania?

Moving on to the match itself, the winner has all signs point to the returning superstar, Batista. His two year contract brings to the table a WWE World Heavyweight Championship run; why else would he return? A high payout and a chance to go out in style when and if he does leave. And Triple H made that happen as the Chief Operating Officer. I can only imagine being the fly on the wall listening to the phone call:

HHH: "Batista. Hey, listen. I want you to come back and wrestle for the WWE again. Leave that MMA bullshit. I'll make it worth your while."

Batista: "Hunter, I told you before--I don't want to wrestle for your father in law again. It's not worth it to me."

HHH: "Remember your last run here? You went out like a little bitch. Redeem yourself! Come back and show everyone you're the ANIMAL!"

Batista: "Hunter, no. I can't"

HHH: "How's a matching salaried two-year contract to Cena's, entry at #30 in the Rumble, and a WWE title run?"

Batista: "Fuck it. Deal!"

It's already inked in stone, and I can pretty much guarantee that's the scenario. Batista will enter as number 30, and clean house. I'd be more impressed if CM Punk pulled off what only Shawn Michaels and Chris Benoit have done in the history of the Rumble and goes on to win the match at #1. Eat that, Kane!

With the Rumble, my intrigue is not about the winning participant. It's about the unpredictability and bending the rules. I'm talking about the similarities of what Kofi Kingston does nearly every year and his creative ways to not be one of the eliminated participants.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match:
Randy Orton (c) vs. John Cena

I can't even count the number of times these two men have faced off against each other in their careers. It's old. It's boring. It's stale. Cena is always making his way into the main event. Orton does the same. Granted, they are outstanding performers, but Orton VS. Cena Rematch XXXIX needs to stop. It needs to be Orton VS Someone Else. And no more Cena, for at least six months. The match is already pencilled in for a win by Orton, but I'm interested to see how that happens. Does Orton win clean again like in TLC? Does Cena get the disqualification win? Or (I can dream), Orton gets the win by a Cena disqualification?

Either way, I'm not too thrilled about this. Lackluster at best for the build, and with Batista inserting himself into the mix, I hope that it's a solid build toward Wrestlemania.


That's all I got for you tonight, Spectators! Tune in to WWE's Royal Rumble tomorrow, January 26 2014! And to keep you entertained a little while longer, here is a little bit of Rumble Trivia for you!

Most Rumble Victories

Wrestler                 Royal Rumble Wins      Year
Stone Cold Steve Austin 3               1997, 1998, 2001
Hulk Hogan         2               1990, 1991
Shawn Michaels 2               1995, 1996
John Cena         2               2008, 2013


Longest Time Spent in a Single Royal Rumble
Top twenty individual superstar longest times in a single Royal Rumble match. As of the 2013 Royal Rumble.

Wrestler         Time         Year
Rey Mysterio 1:02:12 2006 (Went on to win it)
Chris Benoit 1:01:30 2004 (Went on to win it)
Bob Backlund 1:01:10 1993

Shortest Time Spent in a Single Royal Rumble

Wrestler                     Time Year
Santino Marella              0:00:01 2009


Most Eliminations in a Single Royal Rumble
Top wrestlers with most eliminations in a single match. As of the 2013 Royal Rumble.

Wrestler         # of Eliminations Year
Kane 11           2001
Hulk Hogan 10         1989
Steve Austin 10         1997


Total Eliminations in Cumulative Royal Rumbles
Top wrestlers with the most eliminations. As of the 2013 Royal Rumble.[95][verification needed]

Wrestler                 # of Eliminations Rumbles Entered
Shawn Michaels 39         12
Kane         38         16
Steve Austin         36         6


Most Rumble Appearances
Only wrestlers with at least 6 appearances are shown. As of the 2013 Royal Rumble.

Wrestler                  Rumbles Entered First Rumble Most Recent Rumble
Kane         16                 1996 2013
Shawn Michaels 12                 1989 2010
The Undertaker 10                 1991 2009
Rikishi         10                 1993 2004

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!

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!

Lack of Execution With Minor Redemption

Wrestlemania XXIX
Courtesy of WWE.com

Wrestlemania XXIX, in my opinion, was a failure and a disappointment, and I'll defend my opinion.

Wrestlemania, on a grand scale, has been hyped ever since its inception back in 1985 as the World Series of Wrestling; the Super Bowl of WWE Superstars; the Stanley Cup of its genre. This is where the WWE goes all out at the peak of visuals, storylines, character development, the whole enchilada. Wrestlemania XXIX fell far short of all these things that Wrestlemania is truly about; ending on a high note. This PPV, was in comparison, the caliber of Unforgiven, Survivor Series, or Extreme Rules. Something you would expect in the middle of the year. And a lot of this is based solely on character development and execution. I was watching an interview with Trish Stratus yesterday before the big event, and she mentioned something along the lines that character development was lacking. How true was that?! When was the last time we had a new character that the audience could actually get behind and root for, or boo because of the story behind him/her, and the feuds made sense? John Cena is a perfect example of character development that had begun, but now falls flat because no one took the time to continue to work on his character. He was the "Doctor of Thuganomics"; now he is "SuperCena", able to win all odds, because "he can." Why? How does Cena win so much? Because he is passionate about the business? Because not one wrestler in the locker room can find their stash of Kryptonite and weaken him? All bad elements around such a workhorse.

Cena was booed practically out of MetLife Stadium. I can understand that he is a Boston Boy in Jersey/New York, and the Yanks hate Boston because of the Bambino Curse (and vice versa), but that wasn't the issue at hand; NOBODY in that arena wanted Cena to face the Rock AGAIN, and NOBODY in that arena wanted Cena to walk out of MetLife Stadium the WWE Champion. But everyone knew that. Everyone knew that Cena was going to get his redemption, and he did. Royal Rumble was a joke once Cena won.

Many are also saying that the Rock passed the torch, as Hogan did with the Rock at Wrestlemania 18 and making comparisons to that match. There is NO COMPARISON to that!! Take a look below at the footage of Wrestlemania 18.

Hogan and the Rock BLEW THE ROOF off of the SkyDome. In Toronto of all places! The fans were absolutely nuts about it. Last night was a slumberfest. Nobody cared. That was the sad part. No development. Horrible execution. NO INTENSITY. The Rock took his loss. And now, with a lingering injury, there are reports that the Rock left and went back to Los Angeles. Anyone who paid attention saw that he wasn't very happy with the ending, even with working through the pain. And honestly, I don't think the injury is legitimate. I think the Rock just wants to go home.

I don't blame him. The Rock should have retained, Cena should have made the heel turn (and not a ridiculous spin on his heel), and much of the IWC would be content. Passing the torch at that point in time was unnecessary. Cena would have stayed with the company, heel turn or not. And the Rock is STILL the #1 contender! Imagine that. I foresee a blown opportunity here.

The Undertaker/CM Punk match was another disappointment. Whatever happened to the anger and hatred that CM Punk had from the Undertaker going into the match? Whatever happened to the fuel to the fire? Did it just lose steam and the two superstars just were attempting to put on a show? About two minutes into the match, I lost sight on why CM Punk and Taker were going at it, and I needed to remind myself why this match was taking place. There should have been some sort of reminder (outside of using the urn as a weapon) from Punk, or Heyman, that could anger Taker.

Courtesy of WWE.com

I am glad the Streak lives on, but Mark Callaway looked painful to watch in the ring. He's not my idea of what I remember as the unstoppable Undertaker any longer. Are we to believe now that Taker will continue to lace up the boots and "defeat" other potential opponents every year? It's just not the same. And with a rumor that Cena will be the potential usurper to Taker's streak, how much more will the WWE fill Cena with bogus wins? Is he honestly going to be the new Hogan? And if that is going to be the case... TURN HIM HEEL. Cena needs to have a bad guy persona, a character development on the other side of the spectrum.

Going back to CM Punk, if it was going to be someone to end the streak, it should have been him. Punk or Dolph Ziggler. I can't see any other two superstars that will get a bigger boost from the win. But at this point, let the streak go undefeated. And my hat goes off to Paul Heyman. He has been phenomenal and working with two gentlemen up until Wrestlemania. I really hope that Vince or Triple H keeps Paul around for booking, and CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT. Unfortunately, both CM Punk and Brock Lesnar lost (and I will get to that point in a minute), yet Heyman's amazing ability to get CM Punk and Lesnar working is awesome. CM Punk and the Undertaker had an outstanding match, for the conditions that were there. The Undertaker needs to pass his own torch to a young guy who could legitimately beat the streak.

"I'm watching you, HBK."
Courtesy of WWE.com

Lastly (as I believe no other match on the card really deserves any attention), the Triple H/Lesnar match was downright boring, until Shawn Michaels got involved. The look Brock gave Shawn was priceless after a failed superkick. "Oh, I'm gonna f**k you up now, cowboy!" After that, the match redeemed itself somewhat. Again, it wasn't captivating enough to hold my attention. but it was pretty solid up until the end. The ending itself... Brock should have won. At least ONE of Heyman's clients should have walked out the winner. If not CM Punk (as his odds were stacked against him), Lesnar should have been the dominating superstar, and let Triple H go back into the recesses of the corporate agenda. Brock would still be around. Triple H could come back as a General Manager, and the world keeps on spinning.

Considering that Wrestlemania was headlined by FOUR part timers, three of which are the top matches on the card, WWE Creative needs to revamp the roster, and do what I have been stating at the beginning of the article; CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT! If it doesn't happen now, the WWE will lose more and more steam going to each event, until the product becomes stale.

Stay tuned; my RAW review is coming up next!

 

We're on the final turn to Wrestlemania

It is the final stretch until Wrestlemania 29 at Met Life Stadium. The go-home to RAW was excellently executed, and Smackdown should sweep up the remaining pieces into Sunday. However, this is where I will bring to action my predictions for April 7. Let's begin.

Interactive Pre-Show
WWE Intercontinental Title Match
The Miz VS Wade Barrett

Going into the build and hype of this match, it has been absolutely horrid to see The Miz on where he is on a Wrestlemania card. As I have said before, Miz should be higher than that based upon his own work ethic in the WWE. Mind you, I don't know what goes on behind the scenes, or if he has to sacrifice for something bigger, but pre-shows are meant for talent like Brodus Clay or Zack Ryder. Antonio Cesaro should be the caliber of opponent that Miz faces off against at this caliber of an event.

Whatever happened to Bo Dallas?

In any rate, I haven't witnessed much success with challengers defeating champions on pre-shows, but I am hoping Miz pulls off the upset and steals this one. But without the presence of Ric Flair (all condolences set aside), my gut tells me Wade Barrett keeps the title, most likely by disqualification, as the WWE most likely won't allow the Miz to look weak in this.

WINNER: The Miz 

Brodus Clay/Tensai/Cameron/Naomi VS Cody Rhodes/Damien Sandow/The Bellas

"Oh, you were not aware?" That was the best parody of Road Dogg by these two...

This is another disappointment mash up for Wrestlemania. All eight of these participants, in the storylines and direction WWE Creative is taking them, should not be on the card. I understand it is solely meant for comedic effect for the kiddies, and have the Bellas look important, but this is WRESTLEMANIA. They should devote a "halftime" show for such a mid-card atrocity.

Enough bashing here. Rhodes Scholars should be in contention with the Tag Team Championships. I like the way that Ziggler and Langston have been built into the tag team title picture solely because of AJ and her previous alliance with Kane and Daniel Bryan, as it has become a personal vendetta. But whatever happened to  championship contenders and the ranking system? Can I walk into the WWE with a buddy of mine, anger the Big Red Machine, and be challenged with the titles on the line as there is not a contender team for them? This has been one of my beliefs about the Tag division, and why it has suffered.

All in all, I don't like this match. It's a waste of space. But, my prediction is that the faces will win this one and walk away victorious.

WINNER: Brodus Clay, Sweet T, and the Funkadactyls 

Fandango VS Chris Jericho

I like the build up for this one, and it makes for Fandango's debut in the WWE, on the Grandest Stage of them All. Who else can say outside of a handful of wrestlers to actually make a debut at a Wrestlemania? Well, I think Big E Langston gets to share the opportunity. Fandango has shown a lot of tenacity against Jericho, and continues to do so. I'm looking forward to seeing this match, and who walks away from it. Chris Jericho has done it all, and continues to come back and work as hard as he does, and put over the younger talent. I think that Jericho, as a business man, will help out Fandango and give him his first debuting win at Wrestlemania to put him over as a top guy. Vince loves the gimmick, and Jericho, being a part timer, will pass the torch.

WINNER: Fan-Dahhhhhhnnnn-gooooo!

Ryback VS Mark Henry

Concept on paper; brilliant. Creative making it work; falls flat.

Two big monsters colliding against one another at Wrestlemania. Hasn't happened in a long time where two massive behemoths butt heads and go at it with such force. Mark Henry versus Ryback could have been bigger than half of the card at Wrestlemania, if built up the right way. And, don't get me wrong; I'm more than happy to see Ryback away from the Shield and having him lose time and time again, but Creative just dropped the ball when it came to building these two silverbacks up for a monumental storyline. A "No Contact" rule? WTF? These men are designed and wired for contact, and with that stipulation in place, it takes out all the fun that these two men could do with each other. Beat each other down, beat others down, and just run over half of the locker room in the process to one up the other. So much potential!

Alas, Creative hasn't been the best of friends for the hardcore fan. Hasn't been for the longest time. The undercard is a mockery and a disgrace to Wrestlemania's past, but I'm not watching solely for Sweet T's sweet ass to dance all over the place (and I am being facetious here), but nonetheless, I hope that this rivalry isn't over at Wrestlemania, and it pours out into Extreme Rules. Ryback does need the win here after several painful losses from the Shield.

WINNER: Ryback

Sheamus/Orton/Big Show (The SOB Squad) VS The Shield

This match-up will be the fourth big clash for the Shield, and it is just making the Shield look more and more unstoppable. However, with the addition of the Big Show, the Shield has shown a bit of hesitation to get in the ring with the giant, and making them look human. A little dangerous to their credibility, so to speak, but it could also show that the Shield is a bit more cunning and work a little harder and at a different angle. As the WWE has thrown more meat for the Shield to take out, I like it, just for the Shield's sake. Keeping the winning streak alive is what the WWE should have done with the original Nexus, instead of just burying them, splitting them off, and giving each member a shovel to dig themselves out of a grave. Only three members have seen relative success (Bryan, Barrett, and Ryback after a repackage), and it was an absolute shame. It just goes to show that there can exist a faction in today's WWE that will work as a destructive force, and a young blood faction at that. Seems as though the top guys can work together, and take them out. Continue the momentum united and don't break the Shield.

On the other side, Sheamus, Orton, and Big Show are such a mismatched pair in this. It's hard to say how or even if these three can work together in this match. Over the past few months, all three of these men were at each other's throats, fighting for the World Heavyweight Championship, and that will be a partial deciding factor in a potential heel turn.  It'll be a big surprise to me if they work well, but ultimately, something big is going to happen, in the favor for the Shield. I'm looking at Orton.

The win has The Shield written all over it.

WINNER: The Shield

WWE Tag Championship Match
Team Hell No VS Team Zig E

Personal vendettas with little AJ in the mix. This is a lingering feud that, although Dolph hasn't been too much a part of, AJ has had with quite a few superstars in the past year. She is a distraction for both Kane and Daniel Bryan, and her insertion makes things a bit more interesting. I am also looking forward to seeing how Langston makes his debut, and how much of a powerhouse he really is. He's a big guy, especially in person, and it is interesting to see the transition in power with Triple H in charge and bringing in a lot of bigger guys. Needless to say, it is Big E's in-ring debut, and he has been a wall of trouble when it comes to facing Ziggler with anything. Ultimately, everyone knows that Langston dips his hand in the cookie jar and gets a piece of any wrestler Ziggler faces. With AJ and Big E, along with Ziggler's own repitoire of skills, Kane and Bryan have their hands full. Even though Langston is inside the squared circle, Team Hell No needs to keep their eyes peeled.

With my prediction here, it's tough to call. More elements means a tougher prediction. And with the possibility of winning tag team gold AND cashing in the Money in the Bank, it would boost Ziggler up to stratospheric heights as a double champion. I say Kane and Daniel Bryan are stale at this point in time... it's time to transition to the Ziggler Era.

WINNER: Ziggler and Langston

CM Punk VS The Undertaker and the Streak

Since Elimination Chamber, it was rumored that CM Punk would be on a collision course with the Undertaker and his streak at Wrestlemania. And ever since Taker's return, CM Punk (along with the exceptionally talented Paul Heyman) has made the untimely death of William Moody as epic and as relevant as ever. Some of you may hate me for it, but the WWE would have the utmost respect for the Moody family and would not do it if it weren't allowed. This is the same reason why Randy Savage isn't in the WWE Hall Of Fame; his family wants him inducted with his brother, so they leave it be. Same with Bruno Sammartino. Some points may have been taken a little far, but hopefully everyone understands that what was in the urn was sand. Would you be offended if rocks fell out of the urn? No, because then the internet troll would come out and claim, "OMG IT'S FAKE BCUZ OF ROKS N STUF!" Stop it.

Going back to my original point, CM Punk with Heyman, as I have made mention of before, is absolute gold. Heyman has influenced this with CM Punk to sheer glory. Around this time of year for twenty years, it is the Undertaker getting into the head of his opponents. This is the first time (outside of DDP and the use of Taker's wife) that Taker's opponent is getting inside his head. And it's working (storyline standpoint, anyway). It's building for some good TV, and I am itching to see this one. It won't be as spectacular as Triple H and Shawn Michaels vs the Dead Man, but it will be more calculated... how far will CM Punk go to get inside the Undertaker's mind? How much mental damage can Punk do to Taker, to completely take him off of his game and beat him, not by sheer force and punishment, but on a technicality? If (and that's a big "if") CM Punk does take the win and beats the streak, it will be a technical win. And I believe that CM Punk is the right guy for the rub. Not Cena. I hear rumors that Cena faces Taker next year. I hope to the heavens above that doesn't happen.

My prediction stands that the streak lives on, 21-0.

WINNER: The Undertaker

No Holds Barred; Career Match
Brock Lesnar VS Triple H w/Shawn Michaels

Another bout that I'm highly interested in seeing go down. I have a strong feeling on who is going to walk out of Wrestlemania as all the signs point otherwise.

With Brock Lesnar returning for a whole two years, this match isn't going to go down the proverbial toilet. And with Heyman sticking around for a while now and Triple H going out, I'd be hard pressed to see Brock lose this match. But again, the storytelling is there and it is all Wrestling 101, and all the players (well, Heyman and Triple H anyway) bring everything to the table. Both Heyman and Triple H are using what was great in ECW, WCW, and the Attitude era days, and what was originally popular; controversy. Personal issues. Who doesn't want to see someone's personal life be afforded in a man's soap opera? Look at Jeff Jarrett and Kurt Angle with Karen Angle in the mix? That was good television. Who knew? Now, Heyman has made it personal with Triple H by using Brock Lesnar as his personal wrecking ball, taking out Vince, Road Dogg, Billy Gunn, maybe even Shawn Michaels before Wrestlemania, who knows? And the hidden stipulation that Triple H agreed on just to get his hands on Brock for his recklessness was priceless. The whole "no holds barred" was kind of mundane, but the execution was flawless. Heyman and Brock again have turned the tide against Triple H (like CM Punk with Undertaker) by being the game, and having Triple H play with their rules. Heyman thinking. The execution is excellent, and it draws me in.

With the layout and the finish, I feel as though Shawn Michaels will get involved against Triple H. Not positive, but there is some kayfabe resentment between the two. Otherwise, Brock will finish this clean, Triple H will go back into the shadows as Paul Levesque (or even a GM role... that would be interesting to see), and Brock continues to lay waste to the WWE.

WINNER: Brock Lesnar

World Heavyweight Championship Match
Alberto Del Rio VS Jack Swagger

I'm not too fond to see this match take place. I'm not captivated enough by Swagger to fully immerse myself into the storyline. ADR does wonders since his debut in the WWE, but his opponent is not matched with him the correct way, in my opinion. I've been saying this for months now; Swagger should be a tweener face going head to head against Antonio Cesaro (who is ABSENT from this card). Swagger should not be at the caliber of match on this card, because of his own character, and his own personal troubles. Creative is high on this gimmick with Zeb Colter, and with a possible suspension looming for Swagger after Wrestlemania, I don't see too much effort outside of Wrestlemania. I love the promos that Colter cuts, and his mic works wonders for a one phrase Swagger. I think, if booked right, Swagger and Colter could dominate the mid card division and THEN be tossed in the WWE major title spotlight. Give him the US Title, as I have been saying, and then place the WWE Title strap on him. He can be the next WWE champion, but he needs time.

With the match, Alberto Del Rio has come a long way as a face. He hasn't fine tuned it yet, but he shows compassion to his personal ring announcer, he stands up for justice, and has a comedy act of his own. I know how Creative is booking him; a Fancy Feast Eddie Guerrero. To pay homage to the late, great Eddie would be very smart, and it would gather a lot of latino viewers. Chavo Guerrero was attempting to play the part, but he lived in his uncle's shadow for years. ADR is a fresh face, fresh move set, and all around newcomer. He isn't Eddie, like Chavo tried to portray. He is his own character. I like ADR, and I like his chances at Wrestlemania. I feel that there are a couple of elements in this; with the connection with a possible heel turn from Orton will bring him back into the WHC title picture, and the upcoming suspension for Swagger, Del Rio survives and walks out retaining.

WINNER: Alberto Del Rrrrrrrrrrriiiiiioooooo!!

WWE Championship Match
The Rock VS John Cena

Redemption is in order. John Cena has been stating this for an entire year, as the storyline has been all about using Cena's personal life as fuel to the fire between himself and the Rock. And anyone who is anyone is expecting Cena to turn heel at Wrestlemania, or very soon afterward. The Rock has also been claiming that he "will" beat Cena again. But this match-up and the result has already been set in stone; Cena will walk out of Wrestlemania with the WWE title. It's unfortunate.

http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/270427-possible-post-mania-feud-for-john-cena-why-cesaro-has-had-little-wrestlemania-build

"WWE has been discussing the idea of having Ryback feud with John Cena for the WWE Title after WrestleMania 29. The seeds for this potential feud were planted back when Cena eliminated Ryback from the Royal Rumble match."

Granted, this is a dirt sheet, and dirt sheets change all the time, but all signs point to Cena winning. It's a damn shame, because outside of the girls and the little boys, EVERYONE wants this heel turn to happen. Have Cena lose AGAIN to the Rock. Then have him turn heel because of his inability to beat "one of the greatest of all time". It's been over nine years since we've seen a heel Cena, and that was rapper Cena. It's long overdue. The fans want it, and for Christ's sake, stop postponing it. Or just give the opportunity to Ziggler and run with it; he's still got the briefcase.

I hate to say it, and I'm pretty sure that nobody wants a thirteenth title reign, but it will be another Cena era.

WINNER: John Cena

There you have it, folks! A breakdown on this spectators' opinion on who's who with predictions for Wrestlemania. Hopefully there is a small addition of Cesaro placed on the card, to which Wrestlemania desperately needs, and even more so, something spectacular. Make it happen, WWE! I want an OMG moment!!

Elimination Chamber/RAW Aftermath

Forty eight days left until Wrestlemania 29, and things are starting to heat up. With Elimination Chamber behind us, this will be the last stretch between the Chamber, and Wrestlemania. With that in mind, what is the current major buzz in the WWE?

Jack Swagger claims the #1 Contender's Spot for the World Heavyweight Championship

The Elimination Chamber match for this one really blew me away, along with many, many other bloggers and fans throughout the WWE Universe. Guaranteed, Jack Swagger was not the favorite (or even the underdog) to win this match, considering the last high profile match we saw him in the ring, he lost to US Champ Santino Marella. Apparently the WWE wants to give Swagger the push toward the World Heavyweight Title and give him a Wrestlemania moment by facing Del Rio. Face ADR versus Heel Swagger... it works. However, in my mind, there is this nagging little piece in the back of my mind that sits there and goes, "Hey, what about me?"

I'm talking about Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler, with the absolutely beautiful distraction in the five-foot-two form of AJ Lee and the large-as-life Big E Langston; might be a wild card in this equation. Ziggler nearly walked into Wrestlemania AS the World Heavyweight Champion last night as Langston dismantled Alberto Del Rio and attempted to cash in his briefcase. If the next upcoming PPV was any OTHER PPV than Wrestlemania, I would rule out Ziggler. But... it IS Wrestlemania, after all. To steal the show, so to speak, I want to believe that within the next few weeks or even at Wrestlemania, Ziggles will cash in.

Back to Swagger. With the addition of Zeb Coulter flanking him as the patriotic mouth-piece, I would hope that Swagger doesn't fall flat in his chase for the WHC at Wrestlemania. I just don't see any sort of credibility on Swagger to carry the World Title. If my memory serves me correctly, Swagger hasn't won a single's match for over a year. From what I believe, is the WWE really going to let a superstar with a one year losing streak a chance at the title? But again, they let a Hollywood actor gone from wrestling for ten years walk in and become WWE Champion. Go figure.

If the WWE has faith in him, let's just hope that he doesn't drop the ball.


Cena puts up or moves out of the way

The WWE has given John Cena many opportunities this year to afford an opportunity for the WWE Championship. He cashed in the RAW Money in the Bank contract and lost a legitimate bout between him and CM Punk; was defeated by CM Punk at Night of Champions; was defeated AGAIN by Punk at Survivor Series; and now became the Royal Rumble winner for the second time to headline Wrestlemania for another chance at the WWE Championship. Four chances, one year. We understand that he is SuperCena, but year after year we have Cena shoved down our throats like vegetables we need to eat before we get to the dessert. Following twenty-fours hours removed from Elimination Chamber, CM Punk has goaded Cena into giving up his Royal Rumble spot in Wrestlemania in a Winner Take All match next week. If Cena wins, he finally has Punk put foot-to-mouth and shuts down his winning streak. Punk wins, well, he goes to Wrestlemania. SuperCena will prevail, and still headline Wrestlemania with the Rock. Why would the WWE throw a curve ball or a wrench in the gears? To take the IWC off of the horse and say, "Erhmahgerd! Punk may win!" Highly doubt it. I was going to doubt Rock was going to win at Wrestlemania until he debuted the new championship belt (which I will get to in a moment). Cena supposedly is going for the win with Rock VS Cena II to even the score, but with the new title on the Rock's shoulder, I have mixed feelings about the Mania match. At this point, it can go either way. But I will be extremely surprised if Punk retains his winning streak against Cena intact this coming Monday.


The WWE Championship

After eight long years since John Cena debuted the "Spinning Shipwreck" of a championship (courtesy of Edge himself), The Rock brings out a redesigned championship. It has been long overdue, and I am glad for the change. As he said himself, The Rock will not go to Wrestlemania with a toy; a prestigious trophy that spins. But, I will say that when The Rock claims that a championship should honor past champions and inspire future champions, his statement is misplaced to say the least. The new WWE Title is a fresh change, but the WWE Championship looks like a Hollywood marquee from the El Capitan Theatre. I do happen to agree with the Rock when he states "inspiring and honoring", but the current title doesn't inspire me, nor do I feel like it honors past champions. Another thing that bothers me is the lack of a nameplate. Obviously, you don't need a name plate to distinguish who is the WWE Champion, but one could just get a replica, and "be" the champion with the old school yard rule, "It doesn't have your name on it!!"

But with everything said, I am appreciative that the WWE put the spinner belt in the vault, and we are looking at a new WWE title. For the future generation of the WWE.