The Official WWE Discussion Thread *May Contain Spoilers*

[Teh_Showtime]

Classic example of Cole flat out ignoring the Zig-Zag, it's annoying

[Astil]

Classic example of Cole flat out ignoring the Zig-Zag, it's annoying

You would say Vintage Michael Cole?


ALSO: Who did Ziggler beat?

[FINisher]

Really? A commercial break? AGAIN?

@Astil, Evan Bourne.

[Jaysin]

You would say Vintage Michael Cole?


ALSO: Who did Ziggler beat?

Evan Bourne

[Astil]

Really? A commercial break? AGAIN?

@Astil, Evan Bourne.

American attention span is 5 secon-

What was I posting again?

Poor Bourne. He's on like a 200 match losing streak.

[20LEgend]

Really? A commercial break? AGAIN?



Completely agree in the uk there is about 12 minutes an hour, this is crazy

[Teh_Showtime]

turrible segment, so boring.

[Teh_Showtime]

Completely agree in the uk there is about 12 minutes an hour, this is crazy

consumerism sucks

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

That was an insane product placement plus stupid promo. Do they do this on RAW often?

[Jaysin]

If it wasn't for Maryse, I'd change the channel for this match

[ShaunGBD]

Keith Stone

"Hold my stones"

[ShaunGBD]

That was an insane product placement plus stupid promo. Do they do this on RAW often?

that's the first time they did the Keith Stone in about a month.

[Astil]

Terrible product placement? In my wrestling program?

It's more common than you think.

((Somebody fill me in, I feel like I missed a golden piece of waste product))

[FINisher]

What the hell did I just saw.

[Teh_Showtime]

That was an insane product placement plus stupid promo. Do they do this on RAW often?

No, the women hardly ever get promo time. usually it's 1 minute after the match or something

[Teh_Showtime]

that's the first time they did the Keith Stone in about a month.

Really? Never saw the first one

[Jaysin]

I still hate Kelly, Eve, and Melina...ugh

PUSH TRUTH HUNTER!!

[Teh_Showtime]

Poor Bourne. He's on like a 200 match losing streak.
WHAT

He beat Swagger CLEAN like 5 times in a row before that

Edit: Also, HHH announces a return?? Save.us_please

[Astil]

WHAT

He beat Swagger CLEAN like 5 times in a row before that

Relax. I must've missed that.

[20LEgend]

I'm intruiged. I think it's HBK and Diesel as GMs :p

[Jaysin]

WHAT

He beat Swagger CLEAN like 5 times in a row before that

So glad Swagger's push got killed. Angle-Lite has always irritated me.

[Teh_Showtime]

Relax. I must've missed that.
I love Swagger, wouldn't let you get away with that one :p

[nucleardonkey]

Uh oh...they just promised Hunter is going announce a major return and hinted at Punk...which means it's not Punk and will most likely be a huge disappointment.

[Astil]

Uh oh...they just promised Hunter is going announce a major return and hinted at Punk...which means it's not Punk and will most likely be a huge disappointment.

Nash. :p

[Teh_Showtime]

Angle-Lite has always irritated me.

His push got killed and then that is when he started being more Angle-esque. He didn't start using the Ankle lock until his feud with Rey. I still love Jack regardless though. Been a fan since his ECW days

[FINisher]

Trips!

'bout damn time something happened on tonight's RAW.

[Teh_Showtime]

Uh oh...they just promised Hunter is going announce a major return and hinted at Punk...which means it's not Punk and will most likely be a huge disappointment.

Kevin Nash maybe, hopefully a legendary person and not a wrestler.

[20LEgend]

HHH is coming out now, I'm excited!

[Astil]

His push got killed and then that is when he started being more Angle-esque. He didn't start using the Ankle lock until his feud with Rey. I still love Jack regardless though. Been a fan since his ECW days

I like Swagger as a midcarder, not yet as a contender. He doesn't have the intensity to main event in my opinion.

[ShaunGBD]

Really? Never saw the first one

We came down to the ring with the bella twins I believe.

[20LEgend]

It best not be that the rock will be at survivor series

[Teh_Showtime]

I once again point to his ECW run. Yes it was lolECW, but he carried himself very well imo.

[Astil]

Trips!

'bout damn time something happened on tonight's RAW.

Rey winning the title doesn't register as 'something'?


No wait, that's about right.

[Teh_Showtime]

a 2nd WWE title match later on. Hmm

Edit: Yet another disappointment, just sets up some shenanigans.

[Jaysin]

Ugh Cena...

[Astil]

Cena vs. Rey Rey later?

[Jaysin]

Cena vs. Rey Rey later?

Yeah

[ShaunGBD]

Nash

[Teh_Showtime]

Wow Jim Ross

RUSSO SWERVED :eek:

[Astil]

Where is that disappointed JR gif when you need it...

[Jaysin]

Jim Ross!!!!

[ShaunGBD]

Ross? Blockbuster?

[Astil]

Wow Jim Ross

RUSSO SWERVED :eek:

Where is that disappointed JR gif when you need it...

I remind you I was not watching when I posted this.

Fix this JR.

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

Good ol' JR!

[Jaysin]

Ross? Blockbuster?

This is fantastic!

[crownsy]

Ugh. Cena v. Rey, starting to look like my hopes for a good follow up to that magic night in Chicago are dead.

Edit: but hell ya J.R!

[20LEgend]

http://i33.tinypic.com/1tpwy8.jpg

F you Trips :p

I'm glad if this is full time :)

cole fired?

[Teh_Showtime]

Now maybe we can get some order in the booth.

[nucleardonkey]

When did WWE become late '90s WCW? Bait and switch pt2. First last week with the main event then this week with CM Punk becoming JR. This is getting really annoying.

[ShaunGBD]

Cole gonna shoot

[Teh_Showtime]

Hey Hey Hey, Goodbye

[20LEgend]

Cole is stupid :D

[tommyb]

Hopefully this means Cole will be off commentary and become a personality. I actually think his heel persona could be really good away from the announcing desk.

[Astil]

Cole got fired?

[Jaysin]

Am I the only person not bummed about JR being the return?

People get pissed when things are predictable, but get even more pissed when they're swerved.

Hypocrisy, a wrestling fan's greatest strength.

[20LEgend]

Not a Cole match

[Astil]

Im not bummed, I love JR on the mic.

[Teh_Showtime]

No but he said he will quit, Trips with breach of contract stuff etc.

Cole now has a match.

Cole: "I don't have my gear, It's in the Hall of Fame". I mean what HoF?

[Astil]

/sigh.

I hate new Cole.

[Jaysin]

Truth is golden.

[ShaunGBD]

Am I the only person not bummed about JR being the return?

People get pissed when things are predictable, but get even more pissed when they're swerved.

Hypocrisy, a wrestling fan's greatest strength.

The problem is they said a "Blockbuster Superstar returns." He's neither.

[Teh_Showtime]

Am I the only person not bummed about JR being the return?

People get pissed when things are predictable, but get even more pissed when they're swerved.

Hypocrisy, a wrestling fan's greatest strength.

Naw I like JR

[ShaunGBD]

The HHH and R-Truth back and fore was FUNNNY!!!!!!

[Jaysin]

Morrison!!!

[20LEgend]

What he didn't resign him?

[ShaunGBD]

The Internet/GDS forum will blow up!!!

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

Not exactly the long guitar note that people were expecting tonight, but a good one nonetheless.

[Teh_Showtime]

Cmn Trips you didn't sign Morrison, he was just injured.

Holy crap that woman caught Starship Pain on her camera, lucky her

[Astil]

Morrison is back from injury?

EDIT: Also, Morrison is now a Blockbuster Superstar?

[20LEgend]

A third return against Cole?

[Jaysin]

Morrison is back from injury?

Yup

[Teh_Showtime]

Morrison is back from injury?

He came back after the Truth/HHH exchange and got the better of Truth. Looks like he put on a good amount of muscle too, like his torso and upper body looks bigger.

[MasterJ]

JR is a blockbuster he's the greatest commentator alive and top 3 all time.

[nucleardonkey]

The line of the night is easily R-Truth calling HHH crazy for talking to imaginary people then turning to talk to imaginary people. I love the Truth character.

[ShaunGBD]

Lol

[20LEgend]

:D Cole

[Teh_Showtime]

Amazing entrance, but Ross makes a good point, how did Cole fit into HHH's tights?

[Astil]

/sigh. Im sure its something annoying/dumb so Im afraid to ask but ... what is Cole doing?

[nucleardonkey]

Zack Ryder!!!

[Teh_Showtime]

ZACK RYDER!

I love HHH. This is amazing

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

Wwwyki!

[20LEgend]

Woo Woo Woo!

[ShaunGBD]

Zack!!!

[angeldelayette]

And the GDS Forum blows up! lol. Zack Ryder in an actual match.

[Astil]

Zack Ryder vs. Cole?

Cole better not win :mad:

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

Match of the year.

Zack Ryder just squashed Michael Cole. There is a God.

[Teh_Showtime]

Future Hall Of Famer for sure, he beat the 1 loss Michael Cole :D

[supershot]

And the GDS Forum blows up! lol. Zack Ryder in an actual match.


And of all people up against Michael Cole!

[ShaunGBD]

He won

[Jaysin]

Ryder buried Cole!

Ryder chants!

[MasterJ]

I call it Ryder jobs :)

[Astil]

Yeeees! :D

[20LEgend]

And the GDS Forum blows up! lol. Zack Ryder in an actual match.

Almost :p

[GhostDogg]

Wait a min...
am I high?

Zach Ryder gets TV Time,
JR Returns.
We have a title match as the first match...
Triple H is a pretty good C.O.O.
and Punk is not here yet....



IS THIS THE WRESTLING APOCALYPSE? OR THE E FINALLY STARTING TO "UN-SUCK?"

[tommyb]

I'd be surprised if the main event runs cleanly. I'd be surprised if Cena wins the title against a weakened opponent who has already wrestled, but similarly I'd be surprised if Rey won clean.

Maybe some kind of interference so Cena loses, and loses his claim to a championship rematch, meaning he gets moved away from the title for a bit.

[ShaunGBD]

Wait a min...
am I high?

Zach Ryder gets TV Time,
JR Returns.
We have a title match as the first match...
Triple H is a pretty good C.O.O.
and Punk is not here yet....



IS THIS THE WRESTLING APOCALYPSE? OR THE E FINALLY STARTING TO "UN-SUCK?"

Don't get too excited I hear next week rumor, Raw gonna suck.

[nucleardonkey]

Wait a min...
am I high?

Zach Ryder gets TV Time,
JR Returns.
We have a title match as the first match...
Triple H is a pretty good C.O.O.
and Punk is not here yet....



IS THIS THE WRESTLING APOCALYPSE? OR THE E FINALLY STARTING TO "UN-SUCK?"

...and a title match as the last match.
And HHH was a baby face authority who was actually entertaining.

Yes, I do believe this is the end. The final sign is Daniel Bryan winning the World title, then the final combustion.

[Teh_Showtime]

I want to drive around honking my horn ADR style :cool:

[GhostDogg]

by the way..
Its it me...or does Ricardo (ADR Ring Announcer) looks like the Latin Version of "Lurch" from The Munsters???


Just sayin.

[Astil]

I drive around honking my horn ADR style :cool:

:cool:

[Astil]

Do we think there will be 3 title matches tonight?

[angeldelayette]

Do we think there will be 3 title matches tonight?

First of all, it's great to have the true voice of the WWE: The Great JR Jim Ross back where he belongs.

In answer to the above question, I think there might be as Alberto Del Rio cashes in the Money In The Bank to win the WWE Title. It IS his Destiny, after all.

[ShaunGBD]

...and a title match as the last match.
And HHH was a baby face authority who was actually entertaining.

Yes, I do believe this is the end. The final sign is Daniel Bryan winning the World title, then the final combustion.

Now I will disagree I don't want Bryan winning the title. But if he did, WWE would still be good, it wouldn't end the world those.

[Astil]

First of all, it's great to have the true voice of the WWE: The Great JR Jim Ross back where he belongs.

In answer to the above question, I think there might be as Alberto Del Rio cashes in the Money In The Bank to win the WWE Title. It IS his Destiny, after all.

/nod

With the booking of today's show it'd fit.

Of course if I were booking I'd have Rey win clean, ADR beat Rey cashing in and then Bryan cash in on a tired ADR. Then Punk and Bryan come out and start a stable, with Punk being the mouthpiece and both doing the wrestling.

Of course it will never happen, but hey, I can hope.

[Jaysin]

Posts are disappearing :eek:

[Teh_Showtime]

Posts are disappearing :eek:

yes like half a page got deleted I think

[Astil]

Posts are disappearing :eek:

This is because Zack Ryder won a match on RAW.

[Teh_Showtime]

Yesterday I watched him and Sheamus in that Five-Star match for the WWE title too.

[Astil]

Yesterday I watched him and Sheamus in that Five-Star match for the WWE title too.

??? Wha?

[20LEgend]

Posts are disappearing :eek:

It's a conspiracy!
http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQwBr9n7yc7OMLGoQWbiqfBvdszV-joQg7aKJvj4Fw-3dScL1vZIg

[Astil]

It's a conspiracy!


A c-o-n- ... spiracy!

[angeldelayette]

/nod

With the booking of today's show it'd fit.

Of course if I were booking I'd have Rey win clean, ADR beat Rey cashing in and then Bryan cash in on a tired ADR. Then Punk and Bryan come out and start a stable, with Punk being the mouthpiece and both doing the wrestling.

Of course it will never happen, but hey, I can hope.

I can see where you're going with that. But I would have Daniel Bryan win the WWE World title and still form the stable with CM Punk since Punk is technically not signed to either brand right now. Have CM Punk appear on both shows, working on that ROH stable on both brands.

[Astil]

I can see where you're going with that. But I would have Daniel Bryan win the WWE World title and still form the stable with CM Punk since Punk is technically not signed to either brand right now. Have CM Punk appear on both shows, working on that ROH stable on both brands.

I wouldn't call it an RoH stable because then you can include ... Jericho. Among others.

Just call it "The Movement" or "The Voiceless".

[Teh_Showtime]

HHH on SD? That should get a 2.0 finally

[ShaunGBD]

Is John Matthew Orange?

[angeldelayette]

Is John Matthew Orange?

Josh Matthews looked that way to me unless I need to adjust my set. lol.

[Astil]

Cena/Mystereo?

[FINisher]

10min left off RAW, right? I smell something screwy happening in the main event.

[Jaysin]

10min left off RAW, right? I smell something screwy happening in the main event.

20 minutes. Raw usually goes until 10 after

[Teh_Showtime]

KoW hopefully. Both I think had a nice sendoff with PWG Saturday.

[ShaunGBD]

KoW hopefully. Both I think had a nice sendoff with PWG Saturday.

I said it once or twice, I will mark like a school girl if it happens.

[angeldelayette]

REY STF ON CENA! I Love it!

[GhostDogg]

Ok... Rey locked in the STF on Cena???


2nd sign of the WRESTLING APOCALYPSE...

Thats it... I am going to church

[Teh_Showtime]

wow nice selling Cena

[Jaysin]

I hate to say this, but Cena is on a roll lately...seems like someone lit a fire under him(someone needs to pay Chavo!)

[Teh_Showtime]

Holy @#$!#@ The 2nd coming of Kevin Nash

[ShaunGBD]

Whoa! Bad knee but he sure as hell hit a top rope leg drop.

[FINisher]

Really?

REALLY?

[Teh_Showtime]

And now Kane can rest, knowing that his WWE title reign lasted longer than Rey's did.

[20LEgend]

:( Great.

[GhostDogg]

OK.. that was a 4 star match. BUT I am SOOOOOO TIRED OF CENA being Champion.

Jesus Christ E!!! Is there no one else worthy of holding the STRAP???

[20LEgend]

So basically last Saturday before the huge CM Punk win is what we have now.

Punk...

[Jaysin]

Its The Cult Of Personality!!!!!!!!!

Omg Omg Omg Omg

Punk!!!!!!!!!!

[ShaunGBD]

Punk

[Teh_Showtime]

Punk's Cult of Personality music is amazing. Best in the WORLD

His titantron is sick too, 5 stars on it's own.

[GhostDogg]

PUNK!!!!!

Is Cult of Personality his new theme song...if it is...



AWESOME!!!!

[tommyb]

Surprisingly muted crowd reation.

[Astil]

Punk?

[Teh_Showtime]

Oh God, cliffhangers beware.

[Jaysin]

I wish that shirt wasn't white...

but I may get it anyways.

[20LEgend]

I'm glad he's there, I just hope there is some reason and not just "oh yeah, the doofus rehired me."

[Teh_Showtime]

Surprisingly muted crowd reation.

They were shocked too hard on top of the new music

[crownsy]

Wish they hAd kept punk off screen a bit longer...not real impressed with the followup to Chicago so far...

On a side note, that is a badass new entrance for punk!

[angeldelayette]

A huge bright smile came to my lips when I heard 'Cult of Personality' by Living Colour begin to play. Absolutely perfect song for CM Punk.

The TRUE WWE Champion..CM PUNK!

[FINisher]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbgEwcwLaG4 :P

Damn that man is a rockstar. Watch how he walked to the ring.

Epic RAW ending, otherwise quite lame RAW I thought. JR coming back was the second best thing the night, CM Punk being the #1.

[Astil]

My question: will Rey and Cena's reigns even count? They shouldn't...

[Teh_Showtime]

with Ryder going over the biggest heel on Raw (sorta) at #3 :D

[Tha Black Phenom]

Wish they hAd kept punk off screen a bit longer...not real impressed with the followup to Chicago so far...

On a side note, that is a badass new entrance for punk!

Yeah, just cause our imaginations started running wild after the event, thinking of the myriad of ways this can be exploited, and now he's back... but the fact is, that is what we wanted before MITB. I'm glad either way, the man's doing himself right now and he might still leave after the encounter, ensuring a similar effect.

[Jaysin]

Also, a great moment for me as a wrestling fan from North Eastern Ohio, MICHAEL HUTTER WAS ON TV TOO!!!

That's Derrick Bateman btw :)

[Astil]

I want to go on record as saying I am impressed with these 2 post Chicago RAWs. Surprises on both and logical movements for the storylines.

I like it.

[tommyb]

Epic RAW ending, otherwise quite lame RAW I thought. JR coming back was the second best thing the night, CM Punk being the #1.

We're a hard bunch to please.

Some decent in ring action - one very good TV match between Cena and Mysterio, one good match between Mysterio and Miz, and a decent showcase of two young superstars in Ziggler and Bourne.

An enjoyable segment with Triple H and Truth, which also introduced Trips as a face authority figure a bit more.

On top of that, JR replacing Cole on the announce desk, which teases that Cole's total dominance of all commentary may be ending. John Morrison returning, setting up what could be a good feud with Truth and a good match at Summerslam. Another failed attempt by ADR to cash in MitB, which could prove to be entertaining in the long run.

...and CM Punk appearing.

But most important of all, Zack Ryder won a match on Raw!

In all, I thought it was pretty darn good.

[Tha Black Phenom]

It was much better than last week, for a start. Lot more things to talk about stemming from this show.

[Teh_Showtime]

But most important of all, Zack Ryder won a match on Raw!


:D...

[Jaysin]

MIZFITS REJOICE!

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e322/VenomousPrime/PWD9011S.jpg?t=1311653280

[Teh_Showtime]

Miz #1 in the PWI 500?

AWESOME!

[Tha Black Phenom]

Oh crap-a-doodle. Still not a fan of him but I guess he deserves it.

I at least hope Punk is #2.

[Astil]

What a story for Miz, from fan to #1 in the world (arguably).

I love Punk's "what's my name?" thing he's doing. His "I'm back" then dropping the mic was great too.

They are building strong for Summerslam. Hope Punk takes that one too.

[Teh_Showtime]

Oh crap-a-doodle. Still not a fan of him but I guess he deserves it.

I at least hope Punk is #2.

I wonder where Sheamus is. He had a big year, with retiring HHH and adding another WWE title and KOTR

[TakerNGN74]

Not sure if you all have seen this but if not I will share...

On Gerweck.net there is a link that says summerslam main event confirmed and the match will be John Cena vs. CM Punk to unify the two titles. I new that they were going to do this with the way tonight was going. Lets just pray that CM Punk wins that match because if he doesn't then this whole epic storyline will be pointless.

[Jaysin]

Oh crap-a-doodle. Still not a fan of him but I guess he deserves it.

I at least hope Punk is #2.

Well, it takes everything from June 1, 2010, to May 31, 2011 into consideration.

[Bull]

Zack Ryder is great lol:cool:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrBusxUViUY&feature=player_embedded

[Jaysin]

Zack Ryder is great lol:cool:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrBusxUViUY&feature=player_embedded

There's another video where all the heels are beating Cena down and then Warrior's music hits, Ziggler's reaction is amazing. It cuts off before Ryder actually gets in the ring though.

[ShaunGBD]

My friend said that JFK was shown in Punk new intro video, anyone know why?

[Teh_Showtime]

Wait, so they actually let Ryder be the Ultimate Broski at house shows?

That is hilarious.

[Astil]

Wait, so they actually let Ryder be the Ultimate Broski at house shows?

That is hilarious.

I need to find a WWE house show now!

[nimo34]

My friend said that JFK was shown in Punk new intro video, anyone know why?

Punk's new song is "Cult of Personality", which mentions JFK among other political figures. That along with Punk being the new voice of the people would be why I'd think he's in the entrance video.

[Teh_Showtime]

I want him to "bury" HHH

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_Vtwdozi-Q&feature=player_embedded

[Prophet]

What a story for Miz, from fan to #1 in the world (arguably).

I love Punk's "what's my name?" thing he's doing. His "I'm back" then dropping the mic was great too.

They are building strong for Summerslam. Hope Punk takes that one too.

He's been doing the What's my name? thing since the SES, hasn't he? And I still prefer the kneeling watch glance and "It's Clobbering Time" to anything else, entrance wise.

I want him to "bury" HHH

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_Vtwdozi-Q&feature=player_embedded

Proof that Michael Cole is in D-Bry's head. lol

[Teh_Showtime]

Punk's new song is "Cult of Personality", which mentions JFK among other political figures. That along with Punk being the new voice of the people would be why I'd think he's in the entrance video.

Cue in R-Truth and conspiracy talk

[ShaunGBD]

am I the only one who hates Bryan?

[Teh_Showtime]

And I still prefer the kneeling watch glance and "It's Clobbering Time" to anything else, entrance wise.



I remember when he said that during that epic Rumble promo. He was extremely entertaining in the Rumble the last few years

[randomfreeze]

am I the only one who hates Bryan?

Yeah, you are the only person in the world that feels a certain way, it's a totally unique and inspired opinion and I can hardly wait for more top notch analysis from you.

[Self]

I'm disappointed that Punk is already back.

[ChrisKid]

Yay Cena wins :mad: predictable

[Hive]

Yay Cena wins :mad: predictable

Yeah it's pretty awesome, as a whole week without Superman as champion was beginning to make my skin crawl. Good call by WWE.

[Purple Cowboy]

I'm still having a hard time with Cole & Lawler being so chummy chummy at the announce table when they had a blood feud for months.

[20LEgend]

I'm disappointed that Punk is already back.

I am, I think that while everybody is just relieved he isn't gone it would make sense for him to be back later, is this saying that the doofus has just resigned him then, simple as that, or is that the cliffhanger? But, anyway I agree, but we'll see where it goes.

[Nathers7]

If Punk loses at Summerslam, we riot (seriously though if Cena were to win at Summerslam, the Punk hype would be ruined, not to mention who actually wants to see another Cena title reign?). Anyway they're making it a bit obvious that there's going to be a company split between those that support McMahon and those that support Triple H. The segments with Cole, Miz and Truth confirmed that. I can see similar segments coming on Smackdown aswell.

[jesterx7769]

Think the Cena/Punk thing is good, but def. did it too quick. Two title matches on one show when you usually get none for six months? Would have liked to see them build Cena/Rey for the PPV then have Punk return then for the feud. Now it is just panifully clear Rey was just used as a tiny pebble of a stone for the main feud to take over. Also really diminishes their 8 man tourney they had been hyping. "Hey win this EPIC tournament its the biggest thing ever! Oh yeah, then when you do we are just going to job you out to Cena since we don't want you in our main storyline anyways"

[Fantabulous]

I'm a little disappointed that Punk is back so quickly but the Punk/Cena staredown did have the feeling of something special that you very rarely get in WWE. If I had to guess the finish of Punk/Cena at Summerslam, I'd say we get the original ending of the MitB with Punk winning and then ADR cashing in but who knows when ADR is finally getting the title.

[Tha Black Phenom]

Think the Cena/Punk thing is good, but def. did it too quick. Two title matches on one show when you usually get none for six months? Would have liked to see them build Cena/Rey for the PPV then have Punk return then for the feud. Now it is just panifully clear Rey was just used as a tiny pebble of a stone for the main feud to take over. Also really diminishes their 8 man tourney they had been hyping. "Hey win this EPIC tournament its the biggest thing ever! Oh yeah, then when you do we are just going to job you out to Cena since we don't want you in our main storyline anyways"

Cena/Rey would've just been a passover main-event, when they're trying to go big for SummerSlam. I agree the way Cena got his title shot was so dodgy, but it was the only way for this to come full circle.

People all over literally said before MITB, WWE would be fools not to strike a deal with Punk and keep him around. They ended up doing just that. But people still are restless. WWE truly can never win... even when they're gaining steam. :p

[Teh_Showtime]

If Punk had to come back last night he should have done it after like a suicide dive spot from Mysterio with both men down. Cue the new music, and a double count out and leave Punk standing on the ramp holding the WWE title.

I don't really mind him back so soon but having a match at Summer Slam would be too soon. If they would have drawn out the WWE title tourney they would have been able to hype other matches on the show too and Punk could have came back after that, which would be at least more than 1 week not on TV

[UkWrestleFan]

Could it not be Vince he hired Punk back? It's still his company, is it not? What if Vince went home after last weeks RAW and was pissed off with what happened so brought Punk back, offering him a huge contract.

I really dunno where it's gonna go and that's a good thing. But, with Punk now seemingly back, why would anyone accept Cena as the legitimate champ? Punk won the title, left for a short while, and then came back.

[crownsy]

Could it not be Vince he hired Punk back? It's still his company, is it not? What if Vince went home after last weeks RAW and was pissed off with what happened so brought Punk back, offering him a huge contract.

I really dunno where it's gonna go and that's a good thing. But, with Punk now seemingly back, why would anyone accept Cena as the legitimate champ? Punk won the title, left for a short while, and then came back.

IT would be nice to see them have a nice storyline out of this, but as someone who last week defended the weak follow up raw by saying "wait and see" I have to say i'm thoroughly disappointed now.

There were some things i liked, but overall Punks hasty return felt like the WWE going "Oh no! our epic "i love you, pop!!" ending didn't play well and we got a 3.2!!! quickly, speed up punk's return and lets have a Cena title win for the kiddies as the M/E!!!

it just felt to me like rey winning, then cena winning, then punk's return was about 4 shows worth of drama mailed into on hot shot show.

It would have made alot more sense to have Rey win the belt in the M/E, punk bash him on social media, Cena want his rematch at SS, which punk bashes on social media, and then have Cena win at SS and have punk crash that to ruin John's moment.

We shall see, but to me this felt like a panic hot shoot, and if it leads to punk losing clean to supercena at SS, they will have thoroughly botched the follow up.


Edit: while I love Cult of personality, does anyone else think that it just doesn't lend itself to huge moments? It's not really a "drag you out of your seat" song.

I mean, look at the emotion and energy in Punk's entrance at MITB...I can't see cult of personality allowing something like this pop and energy of the entrance wise...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYfTKHhO0xo&feature=related

Edit: what i mean is,how does one do the "it's clobbering time!!" and "What's my F'n name????" spots to something as low key as "cult of personality?"

[LoNdOn]

Punk's new song is "Cult of Personality", which mentions JFK among other political figures. That along with Punk being the new voice of the people would be why I'd think he's in the entrance video.

Wasn't Cult Of Personality one of Punk's original entrance themes back in the indie days?

[crownsy]

Wasn't Cult Of Personality one of Punk's original entrance themes back in the indie days?

Yea, and don't get me wrong i love the theme.

I just think Punk has owned his theme and the fans love that opening rift, the mello part before punk explodes up to "It's clobbering time!!" and the heavy part in the middle....

It just seems like punk stepped up and made that theme Iconic and just the right mix of gritty, alternating high and low energy that i think suits him so well...and As much as i love Cult of personality I just don't know if it has the same kick.

We'll see, i just really don't want him to turn into another randy orton eqs entrance like we saw last night, where he takes the slow walk down to the ring every time

Also I think his old theme was the best in the WWE, and the second or third best "interrupting" theme due to that awesome abrupt guitar riff (miz being first with the "awesome" followed by truth...)

We'll see, mabey i'm just being hyper critical because i think the WWE hot shot that whole episode in a panic and hurt a great storyline....it's been known to happen :D

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

I for one love "Cult of Personality" for his new theme. It just clicks with him. Now, the crowd last night sucked it up in terms of reaction, but I was going nuts at home.

[crownsy]

I for one love "Cult of Personality" for his new theme. It just clicks with him. Now, the crowd last night sucked it up in terms of reaction, but I was going nuts at home.

well, you can't blame them for that, most aren't ROH fans and diddn't know who it was till he walked out.

I think that's how the E played it too, Cena's facial expression of was great, he even turned to ring side and said "Who's music is this?" to sell the "I have no idea who HHH is bringing out here..." and then changed to shock and a disbelieving look to the crowd cheering.

i thought they gave an awesome pop for punk...if i had one problem with the crowd reaction to the whole thing it's how hard they cheered Cena raising a title he won in 10 minutes from a guy who had already wrestled that night...i thought he would have gotten more boos to punk's cheers with the real title.

On a side note, I turned to my Girl during the M/E and said "damn, i have no intrest in this match but I'm really enjoying it since JR is calling it."

I really hope JR calls as many raws as he's able too. Give Cole smackdown as the other factions announcer, but keep raw JR/King im begging you WWE.

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

well, you can't blame them for that, most aren't ROH fans and diddn't know who it was till he walked out.

I think that's how the E played it too, Cena's facial expression of was great, he even turned to ring side and said "Who's music is this?" to sell the "I have no idea who HHH is bringing out here..." and then changed to shock and a disbelieving look to the crowd cheering.

i thought they gave an awesome pop for punk...if i had one problem with the crowd reaction to the whole thing it's how hard they cheered Cena raising a title he won in 10 minutes from a guy who had already wrestled that night...i thought he would have gotten more boos to punk's cheers with the real title.

On a side note, I turned to my Girl during the M/E and said "damn, i have no intrest in this match but I'm really enjoying it since JR is calling it."

I really hope JR calls as many raws as he's able too. Give Cole smackdown as the other factions announcer, but keep raw JR/King im begging you WWE.
I was hoping Cena beating Rey like that would signal a possible heel turn. Guess that'll never happen.

And I agree...keep Cole on Smackdown, because I never watch that. Just read the spoilers.

[Hashasheen]

And I agree...keep Cole on Smackdown, because I never watch that. Just read the spoilers.

Smackdown is so much better than Raw on any given day. I just wish they'd bring Striker back and keep Cole on Raw.

Seriously: Cody Rhodes, Christian, Daniel Bryan, Sin Cara, Kane, Sheamus, the Usos, Mark Henry, AJ, Kaitlyn & Natalya...

It's freaking heaven right now.

[ZMAN]

I would have rather seen rebel Punk continue to raise hell outside of WWE for a little longer, but this will work. Hopefully he continues to anyway. Srsly wouldn't mind seeing a more serious run with the SES too.

[Comradebot]

There's another video where all the heels are beating Cena down and then Warrior's music hits, Ziggler's reaction is amazing. It cuts off before Ryder actually gets in the ring though.

ARE YOU SERIOUS BRO?!

[Dragon]

Are You Kidding Me!

I stopped watching WWE when "Super Crybaby Cena" took over. So when they did the will CM Punk walk out with the title at M.I.T.B. and it ended up being covered by others outside of the WWE it, I watched the promo that Punk did (Loved It!) Needless to say I was over joyed when I read that Cena lost the title and was "fired".

Now post M.I.T.B. not only did they fire vince, bring back Cena, have him win the title, but now I read that C.M. Punk also returned. They basically made their biggest storyline in years useless as things are "back to normal". In reading the results from past week (not watching the shows) it seems they shot themselves in the foot.

I would have had Punk win the title at M.I.T.B., keep Cena off the air (maybe he can go film another movie), Having ONE WORLD TITLE, have Punk make his appearances outside the WWE. With Cena vs. Rock scheduled to happen at WM 28 and with Daniel Bryan wanting to cash in this case at WM 28 have Punk come back and face Bryan.

[TheLeviticalLawKid3]

Smackdown is so much better than Raw on any given day. I just wish they'd bring Striker back and keep Cole on Raw.

Seriously: Cody Rhodes, Christian, Daniel Bryan, Sin Cara, Kane, Sheamus, the Usos, Mark Henry, AJ, Kaitlyn & Natalya...

It's freaking heaven right now.
It's not that I don't think it's any good...I just never have time to watch it. I'm usually busy during that time. My little brother keeps me updated on it, though...

[Hashasheen]

Are You Kidding Me!

I stopped watching WWE when "Super Crybaby Cena" took over. So when they did the will CM Punk walk out with the title at M.I.T.B. and it ended up being covered by others outside of the WWE it, I watched the promo that Punk did (Loved It!) Needless to say I was over joyed when I read that Cena lost the title and was "fired".

Now post M.I.T.B. not only did they fire vince, bring back Cena, have him win the title, but now I read that C.M. Punk also returned. They basically made their biggest storyline in years useless as things are "back to normal". In reading the results from past week (not watching the shows) it seems they shot themselves in the foot.

I would have had Punk win the title at M.I.T.B., keep Cena off the air (maybe he can go film another movie), Having ONE WORLD TITLE, have Punk make his appearances outside the WWE. With Cena vs. Rock scheduled to happen at WM 28 and with Daniel Bryan wanting to cash in this case at WM 28 have Punk come back and face Bryan.

I like how people are whining about what has been thus far a well executed storyline.

Haters gonna hate.

@TLLK3: You gotta watch last week's just for DB cutting his promo on Cole and announcing his declaration to main-event 'Mania.

[Linsolv]

It's not "back to normal." There are two WWE Heavyweight Championships. That's basically the opposite of normal, and it is clearly* what they have been aiming for from the beginning. I doubt they really cared about the specifics of how well Punk's departure went over, just that it did a little bit so that they could have 2 legit title belt holders.

* - Hindsight being 20/20 and all. I didn't really see it coming weeks ago, but now that it's here I can plainly see why they rushed the CM-Punk-is-gone part of the storyline.

[crownsy]

I like how people are whining about what has been thus far a well executed storyline.

Haters gonna hate.

@TLLK3: You gotta watch last week's just for DB cutting his promo on Cole and announcing his declaration to main-event 'Mania.

I think it had the potential to be a well executed storyline, and still has it. But the hotshot of punk coming back this week hurts it because punk had this great buzz as a rebel who had left the company and was keeping relevant in social media, building the buzz about when and if he'd return.

and they tossed that away two weeks later. It's similar to when nexus had cena "fired" but they go cold feet and put cena on TV anyway.

Can it still be a good to great angle? sure, but i think putting punk back on TV this quick because they were terrified of the 3.2 rating they got last week was a bad long term move.

[Hashasheen]

I think it had the potential to be a well executed storyline, and still has it. But the hotshot of punk coming back this week hurts it because punk had this great buzz as a rebel who had left the company and was keeping relevant in social media, building the buzz about when and if he'd return.

and they tossed that away two weeks later. It's similar to when nexus had cena "fired" but they go cold feet and put cena on TV anyway.

Can it still be a good to great angle? sure, but i think putting punk back on TV this quick because they were terrified of the 3.2 rating they got last week was a bad long term move.
Punk hasn't even said anything. All he's done is show up, raise the belt and smirk at Cena. For all we know, he was backstage for negotiations with Triple H and decided to show up and be a douche to Cena while he was there.

[Astil]

Punk hasn't even said anything. All he's done is show up, raise the belt and smirk at Cena. For all we know, he was backstage for negotiations with Triple H and decided to show up and be a douche to Cena while he was there.

He said "I'm back." and dropped the mic in a post show promo. It's on WWE.com

[Mr Rager]

I agree with those saying that the storyline could have done with being drawn out off-screen for a few weeks at least, but one of the biggest PPVs of the year being in a few weeks is a bit of an issue. In that sense, it's a shame that the feud couldn't have started a month earlier. Although with MITB being in Chicago, that moment was perfect as it was.

Raw will be a lot more entertaining with him than without him anyway, so I'm not too bothered; but like I said, being able to build the feud off screen for a few more weeks would have been ideal.

[crownsy]

Punk hasn't even said anything. All he's done is show up, raise the belt and smirk at Cena. For all we know, he was backstage for negotiations with Triple H and decided to show up and be a douche to Cena while he was there.


He said "I'm baaacccckkk" after the show cut, and his shirt and profile are back on WWE.com as of this post. I'm snagging me a "best in the world" shirt :D

and again, i don't think him coming back this early means the angle will tank (a clean victory by Cena at SS would though) and i fully expect there to be more to it then "hhh rehired me" but this is the risk you take when you make a performers absence part of an angle and don't commit to it.

According to some rumor sites, the intial plan was to have the Rey-Cena match at SS and have punk ruin cena's moment at the end of the night, just like last night. Raw absolutely tanked last week ratings wise however, and rather than role changes out slowly under hhh they tossed a whole bunch of stuff out for quick satisfaction.

sometimes that has to be done, but when you are running a "the new champ is a rebel! he's holding the belt hostage and we don't know when he'll be back!" angle, it takes some of the bite out of it when he shows up after a single week off television.

doesn't mean they won't have a great explanation/ follow up next week, but it does lessen the impact of Punk's return.

[randomfreeze]

I thought this (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWE/article10019787.shtml) was cute on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night.

[Linsolv]

I thought this (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWE/article10019787.shtml) was cute on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night.

OH MY LORD. EVERYONE IN THE ENTIRE WORLD NEEDS TO SEE THIS.

[Hive]

I thought this (http://www.prowrestling.net/artman/publish/WWE/article10019787.shtml) was cute on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night.

Hearing Punk say "sports entertainment" instead of "wrestling" again has now ruined this storyline for me.

[Teh_Showtime]

Smackdown is so much better than Raw on any given day. I just wish they'd bring Striker back and keep Cole on Raw.

Seriously: Cody Rhodes, Christian, Daniel Bryan, Sin Cara, Kane, Sheamus, the Usos, Mark Henry, AJ, Kaitlyn & Natalya...

It's freaking heaven right now.

it has been since the days of Punk/Jeff/Morrison main eventing SD too. So much win.

[DaMegaFish]

On the Jimmy Kimmel bit, I wish Punk would have tried to spook the kid by acting like he was going to give him a GTS.

[sebsplex]

I agree with those saying that the storyline could have done with being drawn out off-screen for a few weeks at least, but one of the biggest PPVs of the year being in a few weeks is a bit of an issue. In that sense, it's a shame that the feud couldn't have started a month earlier. Although with MITB being in Chicago, that moment was perfect as it was.

Raw will be a lot more entertaining with him than without him anyway, so I'm not too bothered; but like I said, being able to build the feud off screen for a few more weeks would have been ideal.

Agreed. I'm glad to see Punk back on TV in a sense, but his rapid return has really cut the legs from underneath this storyline. So much more fun to be hand with Punk as the outsider, pushing kayfabe, but I guess the need to provide Summerslam with a headline was too great for the WWE to hold off on. Disappointing.

[tommyb]

It seems like a shame that CM Punk has come back so soon and ended the whole 'outsider' shindig. However, I think it was necessary for WWE. For the majority of their casual fanbase, going on wwe.com is further than most go to find out what is going on off TV. For the casual and younger fans, who maybe don't tune in to every show every week, or search the internet for info, it's important to keep guys on TV to keep them relevant.

[Teh_Showtime]

The thing was that they were keeping him relevant though. They still kept referring to him (without name dropping). It's not like they didn't mention him at all.

[tommyb]

The thing was that they were keeping him relevant though. They still kept referring to him (without name dropping). It's not like they didn't mention him at all.

I don't think it would have been enough to keep up the interest of the average casual fan, who until recently cared a lot more for Cena, Mysterio, etc, anway, for longer than a couple of weeks.

I think we over estimate the interest and investment the average fan has in WWE. I think the majority of viewers don't really have that much interest in the continuity of the program, they just like to see their personal favorites win, in a single show, as a one off. They watch the TV show and think, "there's Cena...there's The Miz," not, "we've seen Cena, and Miz, I wonder where CM Punk is." If the character isn't on their TV screen they have no interest in them.

[Teh_Showtime]

If the character isn't on their TV screen they have no interest in them.

Only to an extent though.

[TheEdgeOfReason]

I don't think it would have been enough to keep up the interest of the average casual fan, who until recently cared a lot more for Cena, Mysterio, etc, anway, for longer than a couple of weeks.

I think we over estimate the interest and investment the average fan has in WWE. I think the majority of viewers don't really have that much interest in the continuity of the program, they just like to see their personal favorites win, in a single show, as a one off. They watch the TV show and think, "there's Cena...there's The Miz," not, "we've seen Cena, and Miz, I wonder where CM Punk is." If the character isn't on their TV screen they have no interest in them.

You're making people sound really stupid.

[Fantabulous]

You're making people sound really stupid.

Maybe he wants to relate to them better?

[tommyb]

You're making people sound really stupid.

I am, aren't I? That's not the point I meant to get across though. All I mean is that a large proportion of the WWE's viewers aren't actually that interested in the WWE or invested in the product. Here I'm talking directly about the younger viewers who are, due to merchandise sales, probably WWE's most important target audience. Maybe I'm way off, but when I was young and first watching WWE, me and my friends didn't watch WWE every week, we just watched it when we remembered that it was on, or when we turned on the TV and it was there, or when there was a particular reason to do so. Therefore, I often didn't know what was going on storyline-wise. I just knew that I liked -insert wrestler 1- and didn't like -insert wrestler 2- and wanted to see -insert wrestler 1- win. Storylines and continuity are interesting in themselves for the older fan, but for children they are a vehicle to deliver interesting one-off matches and angles.

I'm not trying to call anyone stupid (though I'm not saying that's not often the case), I'm just (partially to play devil's advocate to complaints that CM Punk is back too soon) saying that for a large part of the audience who just want something to watch on a Monday night, absence is as good as irrelevance.

That's also why I think people put too much emphasis on the TV viewing ratings. The ratings don't always go up and down with the quality of the product (with the possible exception of a big appearance meaning that people who hear about it switch over briefly to see what's going on), because the casual fan merely watches Raw or SD if they're home and watching TV and it happens to be on, but if they're not, heck, hopefully they'll get to see Cena (or whoever their favourite may be) win next week.

[MasterJ]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

[Fantabulous]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

I guess you missed the small detail about the Punk segments actually showing a strong increases in viewership.

[tommyb]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

He's just about been a heel throughout this whole thing, despite the pops and popularity with the internet and hometown crowd. I see it as, It's not so much his job to draw, as to help someone else draw. By getting a lot of heat, in the long term he can help a babyface get over and become a bigger draw themselves, and I certainly think that he's getting heat.

[Teh_Showtime]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

You do realize 2 of the most important parts of the storylines were taped AND on a major US holiday.

I certainly hope you see that Punk had been a better draw than Truth (the previous challenger), even though the entire shows were possibly rated higher.

[Astil]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

Guess John Cena, the other major part of this storyline, can't draw either.

[Teh_Showtime]

Nor can Vince ;)

[Tha Black Phenom]

I guess you missed the small detail about the Punk segments actually showing a strong increases in viewership.

As well as Punk's merchandise completely selling out in stock, before the PPV too.

[bigtplaystew]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.


Horrible point.

WWE has posted low ratings, but thats because July is terrible for ratings. No shows do well in july. If you compare their numbers by previous years, this july is huge for them. But you didn't bother to look at that when you made your point, did you?

If you can break your fingers away from the keyboard long enough to actually watch wrestling, you'd see that Punk has been getting massive pops all around the country (even when he's not there!), not just in Chicago. This is the dawn of something special in my opinion.

[FINisher]

As well as Punk's merchandise completely selling out in stock, before the PPV too.

Ye dumb euroshop only has extra small or xx-large sizes for CM Punk's older shirt. I'm getting me that new white Chicago one and the black one with the white fist on it as soon as the new shirt is available and good sizes for both shirts. :cool:

[SaySo]

TBH all this storyline has shown is that Punk cant draw. The week leading up to MITB were the lowest rated raws in a few years. Punk is a IWC poster boy but the other 95% of wrestling fans must not care too much for him.

http://www.newswire.poormojo.org/archives/Blank-Facepalm.gif

[MrOnu]

Well, that was a disapointing RAW for me since a) I don't like Jim Ross b) I don't like Rey c) where was the anynomous GM again ? d) they rushed the Punk storyline. On the plus side though, I have to agree that the matchs were pretty good and that seeing Zack Ryder made my day. That guy will never be a world champion, but if Santino can make a career by acting goofy, why not Ryder ?

I'm trying to keep an open mind for the Punk storyline, but it's getting harder. Maybe they can win me back with a strong reasoning as to why he's back so quick. They will probably need another surprising twist to keep this going for some time and that's the disapointing to me. It feels like they are rushing a 6 months feud into 2 or 3 months.

Oh and I don't remember who asked, but yeah, that will count as a title reign for Rey. That shouldn't in my opinion, but if they can call Dolph Ziggler a world champion when he hold the belt for like an hour.... Reminds me of the day of the 24/7 rule with the hardcore title which was fine for a midcard belt, but not for your main title.

[shawn michaels 82]

The "Putting HHH in charge" whole approach is supose to be the sign that this will be a new era? Damn, does that guy has to get himself involved in everything?? Jesus Christ!

[shawn michaels 82]

Also, if Punk wins and his title reign ends up beeing recognized, will John and Rey's reigns be considered null? That part of the storyline is confusing. Or was the title officially vacated when Punk left?

[evileddie10]

http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship

WWE.com is listing CM Punk's reign, and then Rey's and Cena's, so i'm under the impression the title was vacacted...don't quote me on that, I don't remember seeing or hearing Vince or HHH say it on TV or even online on WWE.com.

[djthefunkchris]

I knew JR was coming back, he tweated it or might even blogged it.

I read these pages with a little humor. Not everyone, but a few people seem to have been upset when JR come out, after HHH teased a Punk return, but later people seemed upset that they actually did have a Punk return. :confused:

I don't have any problems with the storyline at all yet. All this speculation of how it should go compared to how it's going, after everyone bassically said everything that happened wouldn't before we got this far into it... yet still think they can "guess" as well as that kid did on that link. Haven't seen alot of people getting anything right since this begun to be honest. ....

I don't see how bringing Punk back, after a TON (and I mean a TON) of place's called them fools if they didn't. The sooner the better, etc. Too soon now? I'm going to have to agree with the guy that made the most sense so far... This is the PERFECT time to bring him back, and keep him extremely relevant. CM Punk is RED HOT right now, and it would be criminal not to take advantage of that... You cannot just assume that he will be this hot in a month.

[20LEgend]

I was a little disappointed that the blockbuster superstar was JR. I didn't want it to be CM Punk though, I don't know who I expected, maybe Foley or Kevin Nash, and then when he announced the other person he'd "resigned" as JoMo, I was more upset. That said looking back I'm glad he's (Ross) back, I like his commentary :D

[tommyb]

I was a little disappointed that the blockbuster superstar was JR. I didn't want it to be CM Punk though, I don't know who I expected, maybe Foley or Kevin Nash, and then when he announced the other person he'd "resigned" as JoMo, I was more upset. That said looking back I'm glad he's (Ross) back, I like his commentary :D

In the heat of the moment I got over excited and was half expecting Y2J. Deep down I knew it wasn't him, but just the thought of it made JR's return (which I do think is good) seem a little less exciting.

[Prophet]

Also, if Punk wins and his title reign ends up beeing recognized, will John and Rey's reigns be considered null? That part of the storyline is confusing. Or was the title officially vacated when Punk left?

Cole mentioned it last week during the tournament. When Punk left, McMahon vacated the title, to set up the tournament.

[Jaysin]

http://iwantwrestling.com/2011/07/26/hall-of-famer-saved-cm-punk/

GREAT Read, I cannot recommend this enough.

[SaySo]

http://iwantwrestling.com/2011/07/26/hall-of-famer-saved-cm-punk/

GREAT Read, I cannot recommend this enough.

Indeed it was. Great to see how far CM Punk has come in the WWE.

[GhostDogg]

OK
I just saw the Jimmy Kimmel life clip with CM Punk. 3 Things.

1. A 6 year old is the Damn General Manager....
2. CM Punk is actually entertaining and funny (and the 6 year old was awesome)

and 3. as everyone know...

John Cena is "Poopy"

:)

[Bull]

I'm just wondering if I am the only one who thought it was complete awsomeness to watch CM Punk walk out to Cult Of Personality?:D

I've actually watched ot multiple times just because I think it is that Badass.

[TakerNGN74]

Yeah Dude it was fricken awesome, I knew right when the music hit that it was him but it was still cool regardless. I hope he uses it at Summerslam in his match with Cena.

[bigtplaystew]

Yea I dont feel like they are rushing the Punk storyline at all. It's the hottest thing in wrestling right now and they gave him two weeks off after the PPV... what more do you want?

They brought him back very briefly on TV and teased the fans a bit. We all know he'll have stuff to say and we'll all tune it to hear it. If you legitimately thought they would rest Punk whiel he's as hot as he is... especially leading up to summerslam.... well... you simply deserve to be "disappointed".

[milamber]

I didn't mind Rey winning the title. He deserves it. However, unlike with Christian losing his belt to Orton after a few days where they made a storyline out of it, there was less reason for Rey to defend so quickly. I guess they wanted to go all out for HHH's first Raw in charge but it didn't make good sense.

As for Cena winning, yeah it sucked but I have faith it's only temporary. I believe Rey will win it back at (or before) SS and ADR will try to take it off him.

[ShaunGBD]

When Ultimate Warrior was talking about Zack Ryder was he joking or serious?

[sebsy]

Don't think Mysterio is getting a title any time soon.

Hopefully it all ends up with Punk being rightfully recognised as the champion, which means Punk vs Cena at Summerslam.

Punk can come back next week and say he had to make his point that he is the champion and any one they've decided is new champion means nothing so Rey and Cena's reigns don't count. Punk says if Cena thinks he deserves to be champion then he should earn it by invoking his rematch at Summerslam. Hopefully Punk then beats Cena.

Cena can then feud with Del Rio and Mysterio with Punk whilst presumably Miz and Riley reignite for another match.

Depending on the situation of Punk's return it could lead to HHH giving Punk more desperate matches in an effort to 'reclaim' the title.

A triple threat match at Night Of Champions, a HIAC match at the similarly named ppv etc

[LoNdOn]

I'm just wondering if I am the only one who thought it was complete awsomeness to watch CM Punk walk out to Cult Of Personality?:D

I've actually watched ot multiple times just because I think it is that Badass.

I loved it, I had goosebumps and still do whenever I watch it back. Having said that, CM Punk could come out to Just Beiber and would still be badass.

A lot of people are complaining that they have pushed the story along too quickly. Maybe they should have kept Punk off of tv until Summerslam but I would be flat out lying if I said I wasn't loving this storyline all the same. I am actually optimistic about the future of WWE with the creative changes we have witnessed over the past couple of shows, things look quite promising.

[Fantabulous]

Considering it's Punk/Cena in a title vs. title match as the main event of Summerslam, which should have been more than just obvious given the ending of Raw, we're not getting any more WWE title changes until then. Rey was just the guy picked to keep the belt warm for two hours so Cena could get it back and they could set up the main event of Summerslam.

Even if they 'had to' bring Punk back, either because you felt he was hot and they had to keep the momentum going or you think the casual fan has the attention span of a flea and would forget all about him if he was off TV for more than a week, there are dozens of ways you can have Punk be part of Raw and not have it be as a member of the roster. Part of what made the angle special was Punk being the rebel, both with his words and actions, who didn't want to be on Raw, even as WWE Champion, and it's hard to portray that now that Punk is 'back in the fold'. It wouldn't have hurt to stick with Cena/ADR as the Summerslam main event and run angles leading toward Summerslam with Punk gatecrashing Raw or kicking up a fuss in some fashion and maintain the rebel part of the character for a while longer. Now, he's back to being a wrestler for WWE and there are lot of aspects of the character you've lost and can't make use of that would have made for great TV.

[kipfizh]

Two things really bugged me about the show this week, mainly because I get annoyed by continuity issues or things that just plain don't make sense.

1) The Cole 'contract' nonsense. So he can't be fired because of his severance package, and if he quits he forfeits it? Fine so far. But the next five minutes were the absolute definition of constructive dismissal, which means he could happily walk and sue.

Making an employee's work life horrible and goading them into leaving so you don't have to pay them off? Open and shut case. I know it is picky, but if you're going to mention contracts and clauses then don't leave such a gaping hole in your argument.

2) Assuming the new title is recognised, which it seems to be, Rey is owed a rematch. Chances of getting one?

This one really bugs me - people either get rematches or don't based on how it fits the purposes of where they are going, regardless of logic. But this one is just so contradictory - the whole point of the second title match was because Cena deserves a rematch (even though the new title is a different one) - by that same logic Rey CERTAINLY deserves one. He ain't gonna get it though.

But otherwise, good show. Yes, it feels rushed, but everyone's tuning in next week to see Punk's returning promo.

[Hive]

This one really bugs me - people either get rematches or don't based on how it fits the purposes of where they are going, regardless of logic. But this one is just so contradictory - the whole point of the second title match was because Cena deserves a rematch (even though the new title is a different one) - by that same logic Rey CERTAINLY deserves one. He ain't gonna get it though.

How can you be so sure about that?

[kipfizh]

How can you be so sure about that?

Can't be 100% certain right now, but it's a confident prediction certainly. Next week will all be about Punk/Cena and the build up, they won't let it get distracted by a rematch.

[Tha Black Phenom]

Considering it's Punk/Cena in a title vs. title match as the main event of Summerslam, which should have been more than just obvious given the ending of Raw, we're not getting any more WWE title changes until then. Rey was just the guy picked to keep the belt warm for two hours so Cena could get it back and they could set up the main event of Summerslam.

Even if they 'had to' bring Punk back, either because you felt he was hot and they had to keep the momentum going or you think the casual fan has the attention span of a flea and would forget all about him if he was off TV for more than a week, there are dozens of ways you can have Punk be part of Raw and not have it be as a member of the roster. Part of what made the angle special was Punk being the rebel, both with his words and actions, who didn't want to be on Raw, even as WWE Champion, and it's hard to portray that now that Punk is 'back in the fold'. It wouldn't have hurt to stick with Cena/ADR as the Summerslam main event and run angles leading toward Summerslam with Punk gatecrashing Raw or kicking up a fuss in some fashion and maintain the rebel part of the character for a while longer. Now, he's back to being a wrestler for WWE and there are lot of aspects of the character you've lost and can't make use of that would have made for great TV.

But there are always other aspects that can be gained. Punk will surely have his words to say next week, saying why he's back, what he intends to do, etc. And if Triple H gets into the fray, he can still pull off the rebel aura, only this time inside WWE doors, which sure sounds less riveting than what this potentially could've been, but if it's pulled off well, win/win and the angle overall will still look exquisite once it's a done deal.

[sebsy]

Hopefully as I say though Punk will make the case that neither Rey or Cena's reigns count as he is the champion and they can't just sweep his reign under the carpet meaning at Summerslam it's Cena getting his rematch against Punk for the MITB match.

Sure it makes the tournament seem pointless but there were reasons for doing it.

[shawn michaels 82]

“I’m a Paul Heyman Guy!” CM Punk – 6/27/11 Monday Night Raw.

"That one line in Punk’s promo kicked off this whirlwind ride we’re on in the “Summer of Punk” story. This period is being talked about as having lead to resurgence of interest in pro wrestling.

Over the next three days, I’m going to look back at three different periods in 2007 when CM Punk became the center piece of the ECW Brand. These stories will shine a little light on the frustration surrounding Punk’s early run in WWE.

On December 4th, 2006, Paul Heyman left the WWE Creative Team, for the final time. This also meant that for the first time ever, Heyman would not be involved in the creative process of ECW. Stephanie McMahon walked into the writer’s room to tell us Paul would no longer be involved and that I was now in charge of ECW. This was as much news to me as it was the rest of the team. As had happened with Alex Greenfield when he took over Smackdown, I wasn’t talked to about the new position. I wasn’t doing backflips about this because I knew the baggage that came with it. I had run Smackdown for four years before this and knew how Vince and Kevin Dunn viewed ECW. The world saw how they viewed the brand for the five months before this and especially the night before on PPV with December to Dismember.

The PPV from Augusta, GA featuring an Extreme Elimination Chamber match was the least bought WWE PPV in history. The show was handicapped by zero promotion from Raw and Smackdown and being the 2nd WWE PPV in eight days; following Survivor Series. The main purpose of the event was to crown Bobby Lashley as the new flag bearer for ECW. The event had only two matches announced before hand, the Elimination Chamber and the reuniting of MNM vs. The Hardyz. While Lashley was going to be the “man” that night winning the title, there was a pitch by Heyman to have CM Punk and Big Show start the Chamber and for Punk to eliminate the Big Show with the Anaconda Vice. Big Show was behind the idea and felt it was the right move to make. There were a few different long term pitches off of this including Punk vs. RVD at Wrestlemania. Heyman had protected Punk, including making sure his debut match was at the Hammerstein Ballroom. This pitch was meant to establish Punk as the “next” guy after Lashley. If you’ve seen the match, you know this didn’t happen.

The Anaconda Vice became one of the things that the agents picked on Punk for. Vince had mocked Punk in meetings by doing the wrist gesture and even instructed announcers to NOT mention his Muai Thai background. Everything that made Punk unique was questioned and mocked. “Don’t think people can relate to with a character who doesn’t have an occasional beer”, said one agent. In 2006, Vince McMahon looked at Punk and “didn’t get it”. Plus, when you have Paul Heyman pushing heavily for you in that environment – you get the stigma of being a “Paul Heyman Guy”. I had the stigma because I worked with Paul on every run he had on creative from 2002 – 2006. Punk suffered for those sins and that night in December, he did not make the Big Show tap out. The agents who didn’t like him made sure the audience would not get a moment from CM Punk that night; Punk was the first man eliminated in the match.

In under 24 hours, everything about ECW had changed. Heyman was out, Big Show was gone, and I was left with a mess. CM Punk, a lot like ECW, Goldberg, the NWO and especially WCW, were not WWE creations. The track record has shown that Kevin Dunn and Vince McMahon do not support ideas that were not generated inside their bubble. Punk got the tag line of “King of the Indies” and those agents who didn’t like him before Heyman was gone, they were out for blood now.

I’m no Paul Heyman. I won’t ever try to sell you that I’m a genius, instead just a guy who always wants to do the best for the talents and projects I work on. I had a connection with ECW, it’s what kept me excited about the business in 1994 and 1995 when there wasn’t much to be excited about. That spirit of ECW was what we tried to continue in the new ECW, including launching a new star like CM Punk. But I didn’t have an ally, especially a veteran voice, in that agent meeting.

The voices in that meeting room pushed for Hardcore Holly. Now, I am a fan of Hardcore Holly. When Brock Lesnar had broke Holly’s neck, it was Bruce Prichard and I who suggested Holly coming for revenge. (watch here) It was the hottest Holly ever got but he didn’t connect with the audience and they had a forgettable match at the Royal Rumble 2004. Here it was 2007 and the agents were pushing for Holly ahead Punk. In their matches during December and January, Holly beat down Punk in the corner, ignoring the ref’s count and getting disqualified. (watch here) And then Hardcore Holly hands Punk his first loss. (watch here) I had heard rumblings of agents pushing Vince to show Punk the door. ECW started to receive less and less attention and then we had the horrible show in Little Rock in mid-January. The matches were bad, the interviews were bad; the plane flight home from that show was worse. It was the longest flight of my life. The next day I sat down to talk with Stephanie about that flight but more importantly about what I thought ECW needed. I needed a veteran voice to help turn the tide. I needed an ally.

Fast forward to the agent meeting in Houston. Vince McMahon was scheduled to appear on ECW for the first time in the start of a new storyline. He was going to rid ECW of it’s “Original” stars and make the way for a “New Breed”. The meeting quickly turned into another CM Punk bash fest. My role was to run the meeting but dare not speak out of turn on the veteran agents. This was how the previous months meetings had gone but this day was different. It was a new voice in the room that changed everything. “Um, if you don’t like something the kid is doing, why don’t you work with him to fix it… instead of killing him” That voice belonged to Shawn Michaels.

In January of 2007, Shawn Michaels was my consultant on ECW. I was able to get in his input on the shows, thoughts on talents and in this situation the voice needed in that agent meeting. Like getting to work with Paul Heyman, Vince McMahon, Dusty Rhodees, working with Shawn was a dream come true. In that meeting in Houston, Shawn brought up that guys like him and Undertaker will not be around forever and, while everyone liked Holly, it was guys like Punk who were the future. The mood in the room changed, the den of negativity that existed was silenced for the time being. Punk wasn’t pushed strong that week or even the next week but the ship had turned. Punk was positioned better from that point forward.

Shawn Michaels was pulled back into active duty when Triple H was hurt and programmed to face John Cena at Wrestlemania 23. Dusty Rhodes ended up joining me to help book ECW. And CM Punk made Wrestlemania 23 as the only ECW guy in the Money In the Bank Ladder Match.

In that Money In the Bank ladder match, Punk was involved in the finish of the match. He was finger tips away from the briefcase only to have Mr. Kennedy knock him off and grab the case. This was just foreshadowing as Punk did go on to win the Money in the Bank briefcase in back to back years to win his first two World Titles.

Imagine if those agents would have gotten their way back in early 2007? We might have never gotten to see this at the 2011 Money in the Bank PPV.

WWE has even restocked the shirt that was going for 500 bucks on EBay! You can get it by clicking the banner below to get to WWEShop."

Source IWantWrestling.com

Nice reading, don't you think? Gotta like HBK! xD

Edit: I'm terribly sorry. I just realized someone already had linked this.

[shawn michaels 82]

Can't be 100% certain right now, but it's a confident prediction certainly. Next week will all be about Punk/Cena and the build up, they won't let it get distracted by a rematch.

I could almost bet my life that he will have a rematch. They sure know how to book him in title matches and number 1 contender matches, and do so frequently. The problem is when he actually wins them...that's when The E screws up... But yeah, i'm pretty sure they won't miss out on parading him on a title match that he will (as almost always) lose. Have you noticed how the man has a good offense and actually looks legit facing bigger guys in the matches he loses? Oh well...