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.

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!!