The Official WWE Discussion Thread *May Contain Spoilers*

[djthefunkchris]

Cameo bits? You know brother... I'm not sure that Surburban Commando, No Holds Barred and Mr. Nanny were just cameo bits... brother? He tried to make it as an actor big time in the early ninties and failed... dude. I noticed watching TNA recently that the man still can't act... brother.

He can't pull off any other character than Hulk Hogan, heel or face. Actor or wrestler.

Well Brother... Surburban Commando was produced by Vince McMahan and well... Hulk Hogan brother! Suburban Commando was a comedy originally intended for Arnold and Danny, who ended up doing "Twins" instead, so they got Hogan to do it as a follow up to Suburban Commando.

Just really, making my point more valid.

EDIT: and just a FYI to the other post that I read... Piper has been working steadily since Wrestlemania III. I wouldn't say he's a huge star at it, just that it's been a way for him to make a living outside of Wrestling, and seems to be doing ok with it.

[Jaysin]

Well Brother... Surburban Commando was produced by Vince McMahan and well... Hulk Hogan brother! Suburban Commando was a comedy originally intended for Arnold and Danny, who ended up doing "Twins" instead, so they got Hogan to do it as a follow up to Suburban Commando.

Just really, making my point more valid.

EDIT: and just a FYI to the other post that I read... Piper has been working steadily since Wrestlemania III. I wouldn't say he's a huge star at it, just that it's been a way for him to make a living outside of Wrestling, and seems to be doing ok with it.

Suburban Commando was a follow up to Suburban Commando? :p

[djthefunkchris]

Suburban Commando was a follow up to Suburban Commando? :p

:o

I meant No Holds Barred was produced by Vince and Hogan, and Suburban was a follow up to that movie.

On a related note though, Hogan is NOT a good actor. I'm just saying he could have been in better movies, just his own doing that he wasn't.

[Tha Black Phenom]

A loss for either guy won't matter. If Cena loses to the Rock then he lost to a guy who came in 100% and was one of the most over wrestlers of all time. If Rock loses to Cena it's because he was rusty. Both guys have a cop out and can demand a rematch basically.

A win for either won't elevate them and a loss for either won't bring them down either. It's a wash. This match is about making money and I think they will make more than on any other Wrestlemania.

Personally I want Rock to win. I think he might win too. I could see it going either way really.

/nod

Unrelated, but I hope Punk compares Jericho to Chris Brown this monday.:p

[The Final Countdown]

EDIT: and just a FYI to the other post that I read... Piper has been working steadily since Wrestlemania III. I wouldn't say he's a huge star at it, just that it's been a way for him to make a living outside of Wrestling, and seems to be doing ok with it.
Which is why I threw in the caveat that he & Hogan hadn't succeeded at anywhere near the same level as Rock. "They Live" was a real cult hit, and miles better than any movie where Hogan was the star. Still, his acting career has only been a fraction as successful as Rock's, so I think my original point still stands. Rock is the only guy to truly cross over and become a star in Hollywood.

[djthefunkchris]

Which is why I threw in the caveat that he & Hogan hadn't succeeded at anywhere near the same level as Rock. "They Live" was a real cult hit, and miles better than any movie where Hogan was the star. Still, his acting career has only been a fraction as successful as Rock's, so I think my original point still stands. Rock is the only guy to truly cross over and become a star in Hollywood.

I missunderstood you then. I thought you were saying no one else "Could" have been successful. Reading all the posts at once since my last one, I think I tend to clam a couple posts together that are similar in points.

Truly, the bolded is 100% correct... obvious even.

I'm just saying if you look at what they did, like compare Piper to Hogan... Piper's list of tries is much larger then Hogans. To me Hogan never gave his all to it, other's might think differently, but the guy always seemed to pick something somehow related to wrestling, which really I can understand, it's the only thing he probably felt comfortable doing (going all the way back to Rocky III). My point in the above post is that he could have done alot of "Arnold" type movies, but for some reason went a different route. I mean... Arnold isn't exactly a "great" actor either, but he is the most successful Bodybuilder that ever went Hollywood, and I just think Hogan "could" have played alot of the parts Arnold played... I mean come on... Hogan would have made a great Terminator.

[Arrows]

I mean come on... Hogan would have made a great Terminator.

*Glare*

How dare you.:p

[djthefunkchris]

*Glare*

How dare you.:p

You get my meaning though... Alot of Arnolds roles (and other's into the all action movies) aren't really known for the "acting" in them. Cena, Austin, Hogan, Rock, and a number of other's could have done movies like that.

Now, if I told you that I think Hogan could have done character acting in alot of the parts that I've seen Sean Connery do, or even an older Burt Reynolds, I could understand someone giving me grief about it... However, there have been times, and I just tried to find one and couldn't, on youtube, that I did get that feeling. If anyone seen the botch when he fell off the stage when him and Ric Flair were touring, that was one instance. It's when he takes off the doo rag, fake hair or whatever, and just looks normal. I can't see him actually even trying to do a part like that, but I definately think he could play a role as an older coach or someone that gives people insight, knowledge and enhance's their skills. This is something I think he tries to do in real life, but then lets his ego or whatever get in the way, but he definately tries to portray that role (that any fan of wrestling probably won't ever buy) to the public. I do think he could pull off that type of role in a movie though. It's a shame he probably won't ever budge from the "B" film type toughguy that has a wrestling background role, with a golden heart character's.

Just my two cents, but I do think John Cena could do a great deal in movies if he ever gets out of the WWE "B" movies, as he is ussually on par with the rest of the cast, if not even better (and they are "real" actors).

[bigtplaystew]

See, there is a big difference to saying, "Cena or Hogan haven't succeeded to the level the rock has" and saying "the Rock succeeded where other didn't".

They're two different points. And we're not talking quality here. If you look at the top 10 films of the year, most of those aren't "good" films yet you can't outright call them unsuccessful either.

Either way, hardcore cynical film nerd here TOTALLY loved Legendary... just sayin'

[shawn michaels 82]

I missunderstood you then. I thought you were saying no one else "Could" have been successful. Reading all the posts at once since my last one, I think I tend to clam a couple posts together that are similar in points.

Truly, the bolded is 100% correct... obvious even.

I'm just saying if you look at what they did, like compare Piper to Hogan... Piper's list of tries is much larger then Hogans. To me Hogan never gave his all to it, other's might think differently, but the guy always seemed to pick something somehow related to wrestling, which really I can understand, it's the only thing he probably felt comfortable doing (going all the way back to Rocky III). My point in the above post is that he could have done alot of "Arnold" type movies, but for some reason went a different route. I mean... Arnold isn't exactly a "great" actor either, but he is the most successful Bodybuilder that ever went Hollywood, and I just think Hogan "could" have played alot of the parts Arnold played... I mean come on... Hogan would have made a great Terminator.

Please go mark for Hogan in la-la land. Not here! Do you even read yourself? A great terminator? really? :D And he failed as an actor, period. He tried hard and he failed.

[shawn michaels 82]

You get my meaning though... Alot of Arnolds roles (and other's into the all action movies) aren't really known for the "acting" in them. Cena, Austin, Hogan, Rock, and a number of other's could have done movies like that.

Now, if I told you that I think Hogan could have done character acting in alot of the parts that I've seen Sean Connery do, or even an older Burt Reynolds, I could understand someone giving me grief about it... However, there have been times, and I just tried to find one and couldn't, on youtube, that I did get that feeling. If anyone seen the botch when he fell off the stage when him and Ric Flair were touring, that was one instance. It's when he takes off the doo rag, fake hair or whatever, and just looks normal. I can't see him actually even trying to do a part like that, but I definately think he could play a role as an older coach or someone that gives people insight, knowledge and enhance's their skills. This is something I think he tries to do in real life, but then lets his ego or whatever get in the way, but he definately tries to portray that role (that any fan of wrestling probably won't ever buy) to the public. I do think he could pull off that type of role in a movie though. It's a shame he probably won't ever budge from the "B" film type toughguy that has a wrestling background role, with a golden heart character's.

Just my two cents, but I do think John Cena could do a great deal in movies if he ever gets out of the WWE "B" movies, as he is ussually on par with the rest of the cast, if not even better (and they are "real" actors).

I dislike John Cena, the wrestler. No secret. But John Cena the actor is bad enough too. If he was that good he would be acting somewhere else, trust me. People just say: he would never leave WWE. BS. Some of these guys never leave because no one offers them a good enough deal. And Cena sucks as an actor.

[milamber]

Love Super Smackdown. Quality SD with added star power.

Prediction - Miz will be drafted to SD (with an eventual face turn).

Bryan v Punk - Epic! I was squealing like a little girl the whole time. Even the false finishes and GM involvement were entertaining. And the draw finish after a superplex was a brilliant spot. Match of the year.


http://i600.photobucket.com/albums/tt88/milamber/brotunga.jpg

[djthefunkchris]

I dislike John Cena, the wrestler. No secret. But John Cena the actor is bad enough too. If he was that good he would be acting somewhere else, trust me. People just say: he would never leave WWE. BS. Some of these guys never leave because no offers them a good enough deal. And Cena sucks as an actor.

Have you ever watched any movie he done? Obviously you haven't.

Even the biggest John Cena hater's after watching one of his movies would at least agree that his acting isn't bad.

Another one I thought did pretty good was Big Show.

Triple H on the other hand, I was totally unimpressed with his acting.

[BHK1978]

Have you ever watched any movie he done? Obviously you haven't.

Even the biggest John Cena hater's after watching one of his movies would at least agree that his acting isn't bad.

Another one I thought did pretty good was Big Show.

Triple H on the other hand, I was totally unimpressed with his acting.

Well there is a difference between movie acting and actual acting.

Do you think that John Cena or say Will Smith could pull off acting in a play where they don't have the chance to do multiple takes?

[dvdWarrior]

I dunno how anyone else feels about this, and I know this will probably sound a little strange coming from me, a guy who's been known to get a little unhinged when the awesome little guys get creamed by the enormous monsters simply because they are in fact enormous monsters....

But, I'm just having a really hard time buying David Otunga (or Cody Rhodes either for that matter), beating Ezekial Jackson so easily.

It just looked ridiculous to me, for some reason, and, judging from the reactions I've seen in my family and friends, I wasn't the only one who thought so.

Just a little something I noted while watching the SmackDown this week, seems a guy who looks like Jackson should be a heck of a lot harder to deal with is all.

:o :o :o

[Fantabulous]

Comparing Hogan's acting to Arnie's is such a ridiculous and asinine statement that I have hard time believing anybody could be serious when they say it. Given who did say it, though....

Arnie wasn't great but he was Olivier compared to Hogan.

[djthefunkchris]

They just failed at making it look realistic is all. Better luck next time?

I've always held the opposing viewpoint, because it's obvious. Many people will bring up this and that, but the whole reason you have weight divisions in other sports (boxing and MMA for examples, Wrestling in the olympics), is because it's totally uneven for evenly skilled opponants with 100 pounds weight difference to go up against each other, the bigger guy has the advantage. Yes, a small guy with alot more skill can whip a bigger guys butt... but when your looking at even opponants, its a bit different.

I'm a big guy (not huge, but 6'3"). Whenever I have been in any confrontations with smaller guys (and I mean small, not someone that looks like a miniature Hulk), I've always tried not to hurt them more then protecting myself. It's alot like trying to NOT fight a woman, because the result is the same. You hurt them, your a big bully. You get beat by them, How could you let them beat you? Either way it's a lose situation, and there is a reason for it.

It's because it's totally unfair to the smaller person. IN PRO-Wrestling, you have to really put out that the smaller guy is smarter, better, faster or something in a huge way to make it believable that the smaller guy wins.

Before anyone says "I'm small, and have whipped bigger guys alot!". Take a moment to look at who your opponant was and if they had your skills or not firstly... Secondly take a long look at if there was a chance they were holding back or not... Did they try to NOT fall on you for example (that's a big one, when your trying to protect yourself, win and not hurt anyone in the process... tends to put you in weird predicaments and you have to decide which way your going to fall, amongst alot of other things). Lots of reasons why you won, and alot of it just has to do with your skill versus theirs, because I'm perfectly aware there are guys even bigger then myself, that wouldn't have a problem hurting someone smaller then what I would even think about.

Anyways, that's how it goes with bigger guys if we lose "How did that happen, you a wimp?" if you win "Well, look at you and look at him, I can't believe you would do that!"

That's public consensus right there if there is any... Why would the reactions be like that? It's because that's how it's percieved and you have to work with that in Pro-Wrestling.

[djthefunkchris]

Comparing Hogan's acting to Arnie's is such a ridiculous and asinine statement that I have hard time believing anybody could be serious when they say it. Given who did say it, though....

Arnie wasn't great but he was Olivier compared to Hogan.

You do this all the time... I only said Arnold wasn't known for his "Great Acting" in those action flicks, and that Hogan could have played in a number movies like that, if he would have gone that route instead of the route he went. If I thought he could act, I wouldn't have said:
Hogan is NOT a good actor


And again, your rudeness when no one has said or done anything to you is disturbing to say the least.

[shawn michaels 82]

Have you ever watched any movie he done? Obviously you haven't.

Even the biggest John Cena hater's after watching one of his movies would at least agree that his acting isn't bad.

Another one I thought did pretty good was Big Show.

Triple H on the other hand, I was totally unimpressed with his acting.

Yes, of course i have. How would i say he sucks if i hadn't? He sucks! That's what i think. And so do critics, by the way. Nothing personal, i just don't like his movies. But hey, he acts better than he wrestles. I'll give you that much.

Well there is a difference between movie acting and actual acting.

Do you think that John Cena or say Will Smith could pull off acting in a play where they don't have the chance to do multiple takes?

Putting John Cena and Will Smith on the same league is not acceptable. Smith is a great actor. And putting theater ahead of tv acting is also not good. Theater had it's run. It's outdated. I don't think of someone as a lesser actor just because he needs more or less takes. I care about the final product.

I dunno how anyone else feels about this, and I know this will probably sound a little strange coming from me, a guy who's been known to get a little unhinged when the awesome little guys get creamed by the enormous monsters simply because they are in fact enormous monsters....

But, I'm just having a really hard time buying David Otunga (or Cody Rhodes either for that matter), beating Ezekial Jackson so easily.

It just looked ridiculous to me, for some reason, and, judging from the reactions I've seen in my family and friends, I wasn't the only one who thought so.

Just a little something I noted while watching the SmackDown this week, seems a guy who looks like Jackson should be a heck of a lot harder to deal with is all.

:o :o :o

Yeah, this pisses me off...a lot! Vince spends time pushing big guys like Zeke, then gets bored and uses them to get the flavour of the month over. I don't even like big guys that much, but it's stupid and unrealistic that a big guy like Zeke, that not that long ago made Big Show tremble, is now a joke on national TV. I mean...who eats that up? And it's not just Zeke Jackson. He's done it thousands of times.

[Slim Jim]

Hogan could have played in a number movies like that

To be fair, Terminator is probably the one Arnie role Hogan definitely could not have done - his accent makes the film :p

[bigtplaystew]

Schwartzenegger is one of the highest grossing film stars ever. His presence int he 80s and 90s is unmatched. Not even the Rock has succeeded to his level yet. In fact, there's an extremely short list of actors who have.

[jjohns44]

Awesome match between CM Punk and Daniel Bryan! Loved how the fans were actually into it too.

I wonder if there will be a 6 man tag match at WM to determine who runs RAW and Smackdown. Del Rio, Christian and Mark Henry representing Lauranitis against a team for Teddy Long....

[Astil]

They just failed at making it look realistic is all. Better luck next time?

I've always held the opposing viewpoint, because it's obvious. Many people will bring up this and that, but the whole reason you have weight divisions in other sports (boxing and MMA for examples, Wrestling in the olympics), is because it's totally uneven for evenly skilled opponants with 100 pounds weight difference to go up against each other, the bigger guy has the advantage. Yes, a small guy with alot more skill can whip a bigger guys butt... but when your looking at even opponants, its a bit different.

I'm a big guy (not huge, but 6'3"). Whenever I have been in any confrontations with smaller guys (and I mean small, not someone that looks like a miniature Hulk), I've always tried not to hurt them more then protecting myself. It's alot like trying to NOT fight a woman, because the result is the same. You hurt them, your a big bully. You get beat by them, How could you let them beat you? Either way it's a lose situation, and there is a reason for it.

It's because it's totally unfair to the smaller person. IN PRO-Wrestling, you have to really put out that the smaller guy is smarter, better, faster or something in a huge way to make it believable that the smaller guy wins.

Before anyone says "I'm small, and have whipped bigger guys alot!". Take a moment to look at who your opponant was and if they had your skills or not firstly... Secondly take a long look at if there was a chance they were holding back or not... Did they try to NOT fall on you for example (that's a big one, when your trying to protect yourself, win and not hurt anyone in the process... tends to put you in weird predicaments and you have to decide which way your going to fall, amongst alot of other things). Lots of reasons why you won, and alot of it just has to do with your skill versus theirs, because I'm perfectly aware there are guys even bigger then myself, that wouldn't have a problem hurting someone smaller then what I would even think about.

Anyways, that's how it goes with bigger guys if we lose "How did that happen, you a wimp?" if you win "Well, look at you and look at him, I can't believe you would do that!"

That's public consensus right there if there is any... Why would the reactions be like that? It's because that's how it's percieved and you have to work with that in Pro-Wrestling.

I still think I could take you ;):cool:;)

So much Cena hate, makes me wonder if I'm watching the same show other people do, because I obviously see something others don't, even when he's in the ring...

[jjohns44]

^ I'll admit for the longest time I was just a Cena hater, it seemed like everything he did I just couldn't stand it. Then it all became fashionably cool to rip on him no matter what. Then within the last couple of years I've been able to look passed the hate for him and though he may not be my favorite wrestler and probably won't ever be, I do respect the hell out of the guy, especially now that he's been kind of out of the title picture for nearly a year, and he put on one of his best matches with CM Punk at MITB(is actually when I really had my moment of huge respect for him.) When they were going to try to do the 'Chicago Screw Job' angle and Cena decked Lauranitis and was like 'not this way'
How can you still hate him to crap for doing that?!

[codey]

Awesome match between CM Punk and Daniel Bryan! Loved how the fans were actually into it too.

I wonder if there will be a 6 man tag match at WM to determine who runs RAW and Smackdown. Del Rio, Christian and Mark Henry representing Lauranitis against a team for Teddy Long....

This sounds like a very good possibility. I would also place Otunga on team Laurenitis, with Ezekial Jackson on team Long. What other big faces dont have matches yet?

For that matter, who will Kane face?

[The Final Countdown]

Cena annoys me when he's doing his cutesy, usually not funny, comedy. There are also times where he tries too hard to be serious, and it just feels phoney. But then, there are times where he's serious without being over-the-top with it, and it works really well. Perfect example: the promo on Rock last Monday. I thought that was really good. If we got that Cena on a regular basis, I'd be thrilled.

As for his matches, he'll never be one of my favorite guys to watch, but I don't think he's half as bad as some people make him out to be. He's had too many really good matches for me to consider him a bad in-ring performer.

[jjohns44]

This sounds like a very good possibility. I would also place Otunga on team Laurenitis, with Ezekial Jackson on team Long. What other big faces dont have matches yet?

For that matter, who will Kane face?

Think Zach Ryder will still be on the 'injured list' by the time it comes around. Kofi and R-Truth may be going for tag titles. If you put in Otunga, then it would be an 8 man and agreed that Zeke would be on team Teddy. I think Orton may still be on the injured list by then. Probably Santino since he seems to have gotten some exposure lately. Brotus Clay seems missing since his out-of-place Rumble match...
other people who could have been a possibility and are MIA and their return doesn't seem likely by Mania: Rey Mysterio, Mason Ryan, Sin Cara..

Faces who are active but don't have matches: Khali, Justin Gabriel, Ted Dibiase

so for Teddy's Team, I'll say: Santino, Zeke, Khali and Ted Dibiase.

And let's not forget Drew McIntyre is still in that storyline, maybe he might think he can keep his job by "surprising Teddy" and helping him win the match, or be on Teddy's team, turning him face in the process(just give him a face run and see if he can work it better, way too many heels on the roster already)

[Tha Black Phenom]

Cena annoys me when he's doing his cutesy, usually not funny, comedy. There are also times where he tries too hard to be serious, and it just feels phoney. But then, there are times where he's serious without being over-the-top with it, and it works really well. Perfect example: the promo on Rock last Monday. I thought that was really good. If we got that Cena on a regular basis, I'd be thrilled.

As for his matches, he'll never be one of my favorite guys to watch, but I don't think he's half as bad as some people make him out to be. He's had too many really good matches for me to consider him a bad in-ring performer.

I agree word for word. And that's part of the problem. We all left Raw on a high saying we wish Cena would be more like that. But we all know the answer.. he won't be. Soon as Mania ends, win or lose he'll be right back to his happy-go-lucky Captain America demeanor. That's why I never liked Cena, but I've respected him for years now and always will. It's just always the "status quo is God" issue with him/creative team. Summer 2006 was the period I was most enthused with him, only for everything to go back to normal after.

[BHK1978]

Putting John Cena and Will Smith on the same league is not acceptable. Smith is a great actor. And putting theater ahead of tv acting is also not good. Theater had it's run. It's outdated. I don't think of someone as a lesser actor just because he needs more or less takes. I care about the final product.

Well neither is a true actor, Will Smith is a movie star he is not an actor. The only reason why he made is big was because he was bankable due to when he was a rapper. Theater is not outdated, as long as there is acting there will be theater.

The difference between being a movie star and being a great actor is stage work. Some people are able to be both (Al Pacino), while others could probably never do it because they have not got the talent to do it.

This will be my last comment on this.

[shawn michaels 82]

Why neither is a true actor, Will Smith is a movie star he is not an actor. The only reason why he made is big was because he was bankable due to when he was a rapper. Theater is not outdated, as long as there is acting there will be theater.

The difference between being a movie star and being a great actor is stage work. Some people are able to be both (Al Pacino), while others could probably never do it because they have not got the talent to do it.

This will be my last comment on this.

I respect that fact that this is your last comment, so i'm keeping my mouth shuth about Cena and the whole stuff that originated the whole subject in the first place. But as for the theater, it's outadated, it comes from the time that people had to shout in the midlle of where people could hardly listen to them. It's very much like writing. (And i love writing) Writing may be awesome, but we did it because we did not have the ability of recording and showing, like we can these days with TV and movies. While both have merit, one is the natural evolution of the other. While being good at one is awesome, not having done the other doesn't take out success away as an actor. Ok, i'm done with this subject too. :D

[Linsolv]

Putting John Cena and Will Smith on the same league is not acceptable. Smith is a great actor. And putting theater ahead of tv acting is also not good. Theater had it's run. It's outdated. I don't think of someone as a lesser actor just because he needs more or less takes. I care about the final product.

Theater's not a dead medium. Don't know where you're getting that idea.

Also, Smith's not a 'great' actor. Not by comparison to other 'great' actors. He's not Gary Oldman. He's not even Eddie Murphy. He's played his cards right and he's had some success but he's not especially talented and he's not especially memorable as an actor or a musician. He's the Miz of film. Worked hard to get where he is, but in the end he won't be more than a footnote in history.

[codey]

Think Zach Ryder will still be on the 'injured list' by the time it comes around. Kofi and R-Truth may be going for tag titles. If you put in Otunga, then it would be an 8 man and agreed that Zeke would be on team Teddy. I think Orton may still be on the injured list by then. Probably Santino since he seems to have gotten some exposure lately. Brotus Clay seems missing since his out-of-place Rumble match...
other people who could have been a possibility and are MIA and their return doesn't seem likely by Mania: Rey Mysterio, Mason Ryan, Sin Cara..

Faces who are active but don't have matches: Khali, Justin Gabriel, Ted Dibiase

so for Teddy's Team, I'll say: Santino, Zeke, Khali and Ted Dibiase.

And let's not forget Drew McIntyre is still in that storyline, maybe he might think he can keep his job by "surprising Teddy" and helping him win the match, or be on Teddy's team, turning him face in the process(just give him a face run and see if he can work it better, way too many heels on the roster already)

That team looks pretty good.

I'd like to see Swagger defend his US title on the show as well, preferably against Justin Gabriel, though my senses tell me if that title even gets defended, it'll be a dark match. Actually, that might be good. If they put it up in the battle royal, it might make it even more interesting. It's mostly just random booking anyway. Anyone remember when they had Yoshi Tatsu win it?

For that matter, what's Dolph Ziggler doing for Wrestlemania?

[djthefunkchris]

Well there is a difference between movie acting and actual acting.

Do you think that John Cena or say Will Smith could pull off acting in a play where they don't have the chance to do multiple takes?

No... I think Smith does ok with comedy, probably should stay away from serious roles, although he isn't "that bad" at them.

I can't see Cena doing anything but action. He isn't a "good" actor, but he's not bad.

And for the record, Hogan is a bad actor (just in case no one seen me say that the first two times, before all the... I don't even know what to call it).

[shawn michaels 82]

Theater's not a dead medium. Don't know where you're getting that idea.

Also, Smith's not a 'great' actor. Not by comparison to other 'great' actors. He's not Gary Oldman. He's not even Eddie Murphy. He's played his cards right and he's had some success but he's not especially talented and he's not especially memorable as an actor or a musician. He's the Miz of film. Worked hard to get where he is, but in the end he won't be more than a footnote in history.

I'm really not that of a Mark for Will Smith, he's not a great one of acting, i'll give you that much, but he is good. And truly doubt it that a guy who did several straight box office hits, like he did in his career, will only be a footnote. He's an icon of his generation, especially for the African-Americans, and altough he's not the Shawn Michaels of Acting, he's sure better then Hogan or Cena. (That comparison was made by in-ring work, but let's admit that both Cena and Hogan suck as actors. Especially Hogan.)

[Basmat01]

The Rock and Will Smith have X-Factor!

Cena is more Vin Diesel. lol

[bigtplaystew]

Will Smith is a very good actor. He's not the best ever or anything crazy like that. But he's good.

This movie discussion crap is getting silly. Some of this stuff doesn't belong on this thread. Will Smith has made a career doing big huge movies. But he's also been excellent in several films.

We are all adults here (I hope). So let's not go with the "i'm cooler than you" garbage trying to out-film-geek each other. Just because a dude made some big huge movies doesn't mean he isn't a good actor.

Slightly more on topic, I think wrestlers are actually naturally decent actors in the right role. Steve Austin has been in some below-average movies, but he's never stunk up the joint in my opinion. He makes straight-up action movies and does well. As long as you can write that "Stone Cold" character around the guy you want him to play, he will nail it every time. This is how wrestlers work. If you can put them in the role they play well, they'll be fine every time. The only wrestler I've seen able to go beyond that is The Rock, and even his acting ability is limited at best. But he's done well with it.

But he has a long way to go before he's even in Will Smith's league as far as pure acting ability goes.

[shawn michaels 82]

Will Smith is a very good actor. He's not the best ever or anything crazy like that. But he's good.

This movie discussion crap is getting silly. Some of this stuff doesn't belong on this thread. Will Smith has made a career doing big huge movies. But he's also been excellent in several films.

We are all adults here (I hope). So let's not go with the "i'm cooler than you" garbage trying out-film-geek each other. Just because a dude made some big huge movies doesn't mean he isn't a good actor.

Slightly more on topic, I think wrestlers are actually naturally decent actors in the right role. Steve Austin has been in some below-average movies, but he's never stunk up the joint in my opinion. He makes straight-up action movies and does well. As long as you can write that "Stone Cold" character around the guy you want him to play, he will nail it every time. This is how wrestlers work. If you can put them in the role they play well, they'll be fine every time. The only wrestler I've seen able to go beyond that is The Rock, and even his acting ability is limited at best. But he's done well with it.

But he has a long way to go before he's even in Will Smith's league as far as pure acting ability goes.

Yeah, this. The whole post. And Randy Orton has always been underrated. The guy acts big time. I remember how he carried his feud with Taker, almost alone, back in 05.

[BHK1978]

We are all adults here (I hope). So let's not go with the "i'm cooler than you" garbage trying to out-film-geek each other. Just because a dude made some big huge movies doesn't mean he isn't a good actor.

Well I am not sure where you are getting the impression that I was trying to act cooler than others. I was simply saying that in my opinion Will Smith is not an actor he is a movie star/rapper. Never once was it meant to be taken any other way.

I was speaking in regards to wrestlers who are in film, so while slighlty off topic, it is still on topic because Cena, Rock, and HHH have all "acted" in films. My whole point in bringing Will Smith into the conversation was that I was saying he along with Cena, et al are not actual actors in the sense that in my opinion they could not act in the theater, which is much harder to do than working in film.

It was when another poster came in and said I was wrong that I responded. This did not devolve into a conversation where one person said they were cooler than someone else because of differing opinions. Nobody trolled anyone in this conversation, so I am not sure where the whole we are all adults line came from.

Getting back on a topic that belongs in this thread. I am of two minds when it comes to the discord in the WWE locker room over the Rock's return.

I can understand why people who have been working their tails off year round for the company are pissed off over him coming back and being put into the main event.

However, with him being on the PPV that will probably mean the event will have a bigger buyrate. Granted the event sells itself with or without the Rock, but it will probably bring in casual fans or fans who no longer watch the WWE. I know people who are going to watch it just because the Rock is back on the card. This means that these workers that are complaining about him being back are going to be able to perform in front of a larger audience.

[djthefunkchris]

I honestly think that "people upset about Rock being put in the Main Event" is just part of their storylines/characters. I can't see anyone (including Punk or Cena) actually not liking the idea of having The Rock around.

*steps out of normal wrestling talk mode* What is it now, about half the roster that actually worked with The Rock in the past. The newer folks, I think I've seen stories from just about every one of them talking about how The Rock has influenced them in some way. They have to feel great about him being there at all, no matter in what capacity. Just to be able to rub shoulder's with "the Great One" would be a thrill I would think. John Cena as well, probably feels extremely lucky to be the guy to get to fued with him. It's the equivalent of Aretha Franklin coming to a Rihanna, Beyonce, or Alicia Keys concert to perform with them.. either would be in tears of joy. The fact that The Rock is still young enough and popular enough to headline is nothing more then a huge pluss (makes it even better).

The guy is golden, I never seen or heard of him ever doing anything but help others, outside of the Booker T debate, in which I seriously doubt Booker is upset about at all (just someone else making a big deal out of nothing).

*Back to normal wrestling talk*

I think Cena's took too long to get things moving for him in this feud. He should have started probably a month earlier, unless it's all part of the greater storyline (with Rock being booked to do more match's).

[jjohns44]

Nice promo to open RAW. Jericho's still got it.

[moon_lit_tears]

Wow@Rock, but umm... Rock, nothing is wrong with Lady parts!!

[20LEgend]

Rock does nothing for me.

Edit: Cena is doing

[jjohns44]

He wasn't the Rock because he didn't refer to himself in 3rd person!

[Astil]

Cena killing Rock for the second year in a row...

[djthefunkchris]

I missed the show, except that last bit, from when The Rock come out.

Awkward... Cena comes out and I don't think Rock ever really recovered the steam he had before (if it was steam).

Still say that Cena took too long for this stuff. Should have been going full throttle before now, and I have a feeling he's just warming up now, way too late in the game.

Edit: My favorite part... "Oh, by all means, carry on your trending"

[moon_lit_tears]

I missed the show, except that last bit, from when The Rock come out.

Awkward... Cena comes out and I don't think Rock ever really recovered the steam he had before (if it was steam).

Still say that Cena took too long for this stuff. Should have been going full throttle before now, and I have a feeling he's just warming up now, way too late in the game.

Edit: My favorite part... "Oh, by all means, carry on your trending"

My favorite part was about not finding Cenas balls in his camo shorts. I laughed so hard.

[djthefunkchris]

My favorite part was about not finding Cenas balls in his camo shorts. I laughed so hard.

My wife asked why he was looking for them, which made us all laugh.

[alden]

typical rock before cena comes out.....catch phrases....talks about stuff trending.....non pg insults *i like that*.....but then cena comes out and with only a few minutes destroyes the rock......Look at the rock after....he is stumbling over his words.....he is almost speachless for a few moments. This is the cena i want to see.....from the heart.

[Tha Black Phenom]

That's the Cena you wanna see? Jostling down the ring with a cheerful smile for the umpteenth time? I'm with DJ on this one, I don't just wanna see the tension when they're face to face, I wants it to be fierce you can cut it with a knife. But again Cena does that thing where he acts like the insults don't phase him and he can laugh it off... we've seen it all before, should be crunch time by now. The rest was good, it's just, ergh. It doesn't hurt to react, John.

[bigtplaystew]

Cena legit came down a flustered the Rock. Good TV.

And Portland should be embarrassed. Maybe the worst coordinated chants I've ever heard.

[djthefunkchris]

A friend of mine was watching for the first time in years, and he said... "Was that some boo's for Rock?"

I honestly couldn't tell, but it was before he started talking, all I heard was cheers, but I was warming my dinner up at the time and didn't get into it til he started talking. My wife answered him saying very little. I didn't give it any thought at the time, but if he's getting any boo's at all, I'm a bit shocked...

Cena seemed to throw Rock off, but I'm thinking that was just good acting on Rock's part. Cena needs to get more emotional over this. I figure he will, but he should be going full throttle at this time. Waiting till the last week isn't going to get him any support. I honestly expected more from him. I understand that WWE doesn't see Cena getting any cheers for this event, but I can't understand Cena not putting forth more of an effort... just to see if he can. I'm starting to think he feels he can do it at any time and is biding his time, or he perhaps he just wants Rock to get all the cheers, maybe he's hoping Rock starts loving it so much he decides to be a bigger part, I don't know.

Overall though, I'm more let down by Cena then Rock. Rock's going to do Rock, I don't expect more or less. However, Cena did the job, but he did just enough and that was it. If not for the final "Trending" thing, there was actually, nothing I liked about his promo. He has, and can do alot better, but for some reason didn't.

[bigtplaystew]

If the Rock was acting, he should be putting Marlon Brando to shame with every movie. Oddly, he doesn't

[Nathers7]

Jericho - Punk promo was great, both guys at their best there. Looking forward to this more than Rock-Cena to be honest.

The Rock had a great promo, they should have had them stand off instead of Cena walking away lol (took away from Cena's excellent promo, I also agree they both need to cut down on the comedy, surely the main event is supposed to be serious). Funny how the crowd was actually quite positive for Cena against Miz but then in a few minutes of Rock talking it was back to normal (fruity pebbles, lady parts).

[milamber]

Punk v Bryan - Awesome mic war between Punk and Jericho. I'm a huge Punk fan but I'm almost hoping Jericho wins at Mania. The match was purely a setup for the GM v GM feud at Mania (and the 2 title matches) but it was still fun.

Cena v Miz - Sign of the show: Miz, remember when you mattered? Miz deserves a main event push this year (perhaps on SD). Would have liked a Miz win but Cena was always going to win this match.

Triple Threat Tag Title Match - Hell yes. Good way to inject some life into the tag division. Didn't expect Primo & Epico to retain though or for Kane to come out and clear house.

Eve can use me anytime she wants ;)

The Rock - He doesn't need to open his mouth, the crowd reaction says it all. Kung Pow Bitch!

This Raw got me totally excited about Wrestlemania.

[ThatChizzle]

lol Cena called The Rock on writing notes on his wrist.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muLM6yAj1ig&feature=player_detailpage

[Tha Black Phenom]

If the Rock was acting, he should be putting Marlon Brando to shame with every movie. Oddly, he doesn't

He doesn't have to, this is the WWE. Standards are lowered :p

I think the issue with their promo is that Rock dragged a lot in his allotted time(who on Earth thought of giving him 15+ min of mic time, even if he is The Rock), while Cena appeared for two minutes and delivered his own material. If Rock was there for five minutes, and hadn't relied on that Twitter/crowd pandering ish, he'd have come off much better too.

[Imarevenant]

That's the Cena you wanna see? Jostling down the ring with a cheerful smile for the umpteenth time? I'm with DJ on this one, I don't just wanna see the tension when they're face to face, I wants it to be fierce you can cut it with a knife. But again Cena does that thing where he acts like the insults don't phase him and he can laugh it off... we've seen it all before, should be crunch time by now. The rest was good, it's just, ergh. It doesn't hurt to react, John.


This is why I am not a Cena fan tbh. The big ol cheesy grin when he comes out to the ring, the bantering with the camera man, the little smiles and basically no selling anything anyone says to him in a promo, all that stuff just grates on me. I mean surely it wouldn't help at all if he acted like his opponent was a threat every now and then.

I will be fair and say he did tone that stuff down with the Kane storyline and that Cena was much much more tolerable for me. It's a shame it's back to the usual mugging for the cameras now that things have moved into the Wrestlemania match though.

[Wrestling Century]

This is why I am not a Cena fan tbh. The big ol cheesy grin when he comes out to the ring, the bantering with the camera man, the little smiles and basically no selling anything anyone says to him in a promo, all that stuff just grates on me. I mean surely it wouldn't help at all if he acted like his opponent was a threat every now and then.

I will be fair and say he did tone that stuff down with the Kane storyline and that Cena was much much more tolerable for me. It's a shame it's back to the usual mugging for the cameras now that things have moved into the Wrestlemania match though.

The cheesy grin is starting to grow on me, and now the only thing that I hate about Cena is the way he no sells everything that is said to him. But other than that, I think that he is entertaining. A great in-ring wrester? No. A great Entertainer? Yes.

[Candyman]

I honestly think that "people upset about Rock being put in the Main Event" is just part of their storylines/characters. I can't see anyone (including Punk or Cena) actually not liking the idea of having The Rock around.

Agree 100%. It's too coincidental that it's just now coming up, now that Rock's back and the road to WrestleMania is in full force. If it was legit, we would've heard about it a year ago, or at Survivor Series at the latest.

Cena killing Rock for the second year in a row...

I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, it's fun to see. His promos are great to watch and it's nice knowing all of his haters are out there left with nothing bad to say about him. (I mean, the best they can come up with is he "no sells what people say to him." Really?) But on the other hand...it can't help but make you think how entertaining he could be year round if he wasn't handicapped by the PG Era whenever he's not talking about The Rock.

A friend of mine was watching for the first time in years, and he said... "Was that some boo's for Rock?"

I honestly couldn't tell, but it was before he started talking, all I heard was cheers, but I was warming my dinner up at the time and didn't get into it til he started talking. My wife answered him saying very little. I didn't give it any thought at the time, but if he's getting any boo's at all, I'm a bit shocked...

I don't remember hearing any boos before he started talking, either. But I can't say I would be stunned if he did get some. Remember that the fans forcefully turned him heel after the first couple times he left to make movies and came back, viewing him as a sellout and whatnot. I wouldn't be surprised if there was a portion of the crowd that felt that way, a portion of the crowd upset abou him saying he was home and never leaving...and then leaving, again. (He definitely got booed when he brought up that comment and tried to justify it. "That didn't mean I would be on every Raw" etc.)

Cena seemed to throw Rock off, but I'm thinking that was just good acting on Rock's part.

Really? That'd be a hell of an acting job. I don't buy it. He may have been trying to act flustered, but he was definitely legitimately thrown off at the same time.

As for Cena "no selling" Rock's promo, I'm not entirely sure what he was supposed to sell. Rock's promo was heavy on crowd interaction, crowd chants, twitter trends, and all that fun stuff, but it was pretty light on Cena insults. He was in the ring for 15 minutes and all he did was call him a kung pow bitch and make fun of his camo shorts, which was a great line, but it's still only one line.

It should be noted that Cena's planned promo was probably rather different than what was presented given how long The Rock went. Cena should've had more time to work and The Rock probably had more to say for Cena to respond to.

[Tha Black Phenom]

As for Cena "no selling" Rock's promo, I'm not entirely sure what he was supposed to sell. Rock's promo was heavy on crowd interaction, crowd chants, twitter trends, and all that fun stuff, but it was pretty light on Cena insults. He was in the ring for 15 minutes and all he did was call him a kung pow bitch and make fun of his camo shorts, which was a great line, but it's still only one line.


Well then what is it gonna take? Is The Rock gonna have to deliver a Hannibal Lecture about his life? (which he would probably no-sell as well) Is The Rock gonna have to head over to Cena's place and slap the taste off his dad like Edge did?

We're getting close to the big event, and clearly last week Cena looked like something lit in his eye. Last week is the only reason I'm making a case about this. He gave a scathing promo and the fans were left wanting for more. On Internet boards and all over Twitter, people were saying "if Cena could be like this every week..." "this is the Cena I want" and so on. Many would assume the feudin' has at least turned up a notch. Then we get to this... all I saw IMO was a pre-Survivor Series flashback. Cena acted the exact same as when he came out to confront Rock and Awesome Truth. I'm not saying he should've necessarily been throwing his shirt off in anger, but give us something in your demeanor to make us wish for more for next week, like last week did. Superstars in the WWE trade fists for less than that ballsless quip from Rocky, and Cena has more than enough charisma on the mic to sell a knock knock joke.

The rest was fine, with the "nice tat" and the trending line. Still though everything seems like they're just trading words so far; hopefully he's holding out for more.

[ThatChizzle]

Cena isn't really "no selling" things that The Rock says to him, read his shirt. Cena is Rising Above Hate. Like the 80's, Don't Hate...Rotate lol

[djthefunkchris]

Cena isn't really "no selling" things that The Rock says to him, read his shirt. Cena is Raising Above Hate. Like the 80's, Don't Hate...Rotate lol

To be honest, I thought the smile was because The Rock come out and did/said exactly, almost in the exact same way, what John Cena said he was going to do the week before. It's like a taunt more then a "no sell"... "Did I call it or did I call it?" is how I took it.

Rumor has it that Cena coming out was unplanned, and Cena took advantage of his ability to ad lib. The Rock's the best on the mic, but isn't able to do the "on the fly" stuff Cena has been doing for years now. IF you noted, the lights were late, the camera's seemed to fly around a bit, etc... when Cena's music hit. Live show, something happening that wasn't planned, I can understand all that happening and it makes sense given what happened.

The whole Cena "No Selling" words is lame in my opinion... Not only did I take it completely different (in a way that seems obvious to me), but it's not like The Rock took anything serious Cena had to say, up till he messed him up with "I don't need my promo notes on my wrist, Nice tattoo by the way."

[Basmat01]

The Rock's the best on the mic, but isn't able to do the "on the fly" stuff Cena has been doing for years now

So The Rock had a alittle cheat sheet on his arm and all of a sudden he cant do "on the fly"? Well the Rock did 99% of his promos live backstage rather than pre-tape and all wrestlers are given a little direction on where a promo should go and what point they need to get across and its the wrestlers job to fill in the blanks and Cena and Rock are no different.

[juggaloninjalee]

CM Punk stuttered more than the Rock on RAW. Was that Jericho making him fumble his words too?

CM Punk in my opinion didn't really one up the Rock except for the notes on his arm thing. That was a nice dig that I never noticed before.

[djthefunkchris]

So The Rock had a alittle cheat sheet on his arm and all of a sudden he cant do "on the fly"? Well the Rock did 99% of his promos live backstage rather than pre-tape and all wrestlers are given a little direction on where a promo should go and what point they need to get across and its the wrestlers job to fill in the blanks and Cena and Rock are no different.

Honestly, I don't care if he writes whole promo's up and down his arm. I'm not going by that at all... I'm going by what happened after Cena come to the ring, acknowledged "same ole same ole" and left him standing there looking embarressed, and no direction to go.

That had nothing to do with the notes on his arm.

[djthefunkchris]

CM Punk stuttered more than the Rock on RAW. Was that Jericho making him fumble his words too?

CM Punk in my opinion didn't really one up the Rock except for the notes on his arm thing. That was a nice dig that I never noticed before.

Honestly, I thought Jericho sounded better between the two... don't know where The Rock fits in there. The Rock sounded spectacular (at least to me).

[juggaloninjalee]

Honestly, I thought Jericho sounded better between the two... don't know where The Rock fits in there. The Rock sounded spectacular (at least to me).

I feel the same way. The Rock was typical Rock. That means he was still great. Best promo man in the business.

[Fantabulous]

The wrestlers being upset about Rock is quite legitimate. What amazes me is that you get the usual suspects writing it off as storyline because 'it makes no sense' or some other such reasoning to avoid believing something not notarized by WWE and thus risk being fooled. Wrestling is filled with petty grievances and viewpoints that, to the outsider, look silly and make no sense. You really think it's such a reach that wrestlers would get jealous of a big star coming in for a few weeks and, in their mind, 'taking the spot' of a guy who has been there all year? Yeah, that would never happen. Wrestling is full of level headed and stable people who wouldn't have such petty jealousies. :rolleyes:

[Astil]

The wrestlers being upset about Rock is quite legitimate. What amazes me is that you get the usual suspects writing it off as storyline because 'it makes no sense' or some other such reasoning to avoid believing something not notarized by WWE and thus risk being fooled. Wrestling is filled with petty grievances and viewpoints that, to the outsider, look silly and make no sense. You really think it's such a reach that wrestlers would get jealous of a big star coming in for a few weeks and, in their mind, 'taking the spot' of a guy who has been there all year? Yeah, that would never happen. Wrestling is full of level headed and stable people who wouldn't have such petty jealousies. :rolleyes:

Im level headed and Id still get miffed.

[Rone Rivendale]

I've been saying since WM last year that The Rock didn't deserve to be in the main event of WM this year. That he is nothing but a sell out. And I am SO glad that Cena brings up constantly the fact that The Crock said he was never going to leave again and then left again.

I was a big fan of The Rock back in the late 90's back when his passion was for wrestling and not for paychecks. He WAS in fact the best promo guy in the business. However, the business has changed. The Rock doing the same type of promos he did back then (catch phrase, crowd pop, catch phrase, crowd pop, etc) doesn't fit in anymore. Today's WWE superstars do promos that are much better written now. The Rock is just too cartoony.

And it doesn't help that he is just going to leave again after WM. Why should I give a crap about whether he wins or loses against Cena?

[Tha Black Phenom]

I'd bet a beer you wouldn't have given a crap either way ;) Rock explained about him leaving again, if you seriously expected a movie star to show up every week, on every Raw & SD, then it's your loss. Even movie stars penciled in for guest host spots end up canceling/rescheduling.


The whole Cena "No Selling" words is lame in my opinion... Not only did I take it completely different (in a way that seems obvious to me), but it's not like The Rock took anything serious Cena had to say, up till he messed him up with "I don't need my promo notes on my wrist, Nice tattoo by the way."

I agree, it wasn't the best term to use. He did acknowledge Rock's jokes and all, I just went into that tangent to make my point.

Just.. throw some emotion into it, y'know? Like I said, it still feels like a mild war of words so far, and because of that I'm getting far more invested into Jericho/Punk, their promo was golden on all counts. If Cena came down the ramp like a man on a mission, especially after last week's promo, I would've anticipated this matchup equally, and given my props to Cena over Rock.

[BurningHamster]

I feel the same way. The Rock was typical Rock. That means he was still great. Best catchphrase man in the business.

Fixed that for ya :p

[djthefunkchris]

I'd bet a beer you wouldn't have given a crap either way ;) Rock explained about him leaving again, if you seriously expected a movie star to show up every week, on every Raw & SD, then it's your loss. Even movie stars penciled in for guest host spots end up canceling/rescheduling.



I agree, it wasn't the best term to use. He did acknowledge Rock's jokes and all, I just went into that tangent to make my point.

Just.. throw some emotion into it, y'know? Like I said, it still feels like a mild war of words so far, and because of that I'm getting far more invested into Jericho/Punk, their promo was golden on all counts. If Cena came down the ramp like a man on a mission, especially after last week's promo, I would've anticipated this matchup equally, and given my props to Cena over Rock.
/nod. Like I said, Cena is capable of alot more, and that wasn't what I thought I was going to see. Maybe I was expecting too much? I don't know, but I would have prefered a more "Stone Coldish" responce... Come down to the ring (like you said, looking like he meant bussiness)... Slide into the ring like he normally would, do his full entrance thing no matter if everyone is boo'ing or not, as if Rock isn't even there. The stick it to him and leave. That's what I think I would have rather seen...

[djthefunkchris]

The wrestlers being upset about Rock is quite legitimate. What amazes me is that you get the usual suspects writing it off as storyline because 'it makes no sense' or some other such reasoning to avoid believing something not notarized by WWE and thus risk being fooled. Wrestling is filled with petty grievances and viewpoints that, to the outsider, look silly and make no sense. You really think it's such a reach that wrestlers would get jealous of a big star coming in for a few weeks and, in their mind, 'taking the spot' of a guy who has been there all year? Yeah, that would never happen. Wrestling is full of level headed and stable people who wouldn't have such petty jealousies. :rolleyes:

Honestly, I would like to believe it, as it would make everything even more interesting. I just have a hard time since it was bassically one of the things CM Punk brought up in that awesome promo he did, oh so long ago. Why would they just now be reporting it, outside of it coming close to Wrestlemania time. I imagine I'm going to here a few people complain about it on the shows now, as it gets closer. It's just something I can see happening, since Punk bassically planted that seed. I guess a few of them might legitimately be upset, but I'd need alot more reason to believe it then just your opinion. IF you are right, all the better. It's really something that doesn't matter UNLESS it becomes part of the show.

[juggaloninjalee]

I've been saying since WM last year that The Rock didn't deserve to be in the main event of WM this year. That he is nothing but a sell out. And I am SO glad that Cena brings up constantly the fact that The Crock said he was never going to leave again and then left again.

I was a big fan of The Rock back in the late 90's back when his passion was for wrestling and not for paychecks. He WAS in fact the best promo guy in the business. However, the business has changed. The Rock doing the same type of promos he did back then (catch phrase, crowd pop, catch phrase, crowd pop, etc) doesn't fit in anymore. Today's WWE superstars do promos that are much better written now. The Rock is just too cartoony.

And it doesn't help that he is just going to leave again after WM. Why should I give a crap about whether he wins or loses against Cena?

What is wrong with a guy wanting to make more money? Everybody wants more money. I know I want my boss to give me more money and I'd leave for more money if I had the chance.

We don't know that he went to movies for the money. Maybe he went for the lighter schedule.

Also the Rock had made more appearances on RAW in the last year than Undertaker, and maybe about the same as HHH. So are Undertaker and HHH sell outs?

The last thing I am going to say is I loved how the Portland crowd got loud for the Rock. Crowds don't pop like that usually anymore. In the late 90s and early 2000's they did a lot! That is what I think I miss most about back then.

[LoNdOn]

What is wrong with a guy wanting to make more money? Everybody wants more money. I know I want my boss to give me more money and I'd leave for more money if I had the chance.

We don't know that he went to movies for the money. Maybe he went for the lighter schedule.

Also the Rock had made more appearances on RAW in the last year than Undertaker, and maybe about the same as HHH. So are Undertaker and HHH sell outs?

The last thing I am going to say is I loved how the Portland crowd got loud for the Rock. Crowds don't pop like that usually anymore. In the late 90s and early 2000's they did a lot! That is what I think I miss most about back then.

The crowds in the UK still pop at WWE shows in a big way.

I think the American audience is more jaded through over-saturation.

[juggaloninjalee]

I think the American audience is more jaded through over-saturation.

I think over stimulation is one of the reasons for sure. The feuds promos don't really seem as good these days.

Is it just me or were wrestlers much better at promos in the late 90s? WWE and WCW had a hand full of guys each who could cut good promos.

It seems like the art of the promo is dieing off some. Maybe it is just my perception.

[codey]

I think art of that could be attributed to the death of character. There's only a handful of guys anymore that can't be narrowed down to arrogant heel/honorable baby face. They do t have unique personalities or traits that bleed through into promos as often anymore. It's too much of the same.

[Rone Rivendale]

Also the Rock had made more appearances on RAW in the last year than Undertaker, and maybe about the same as HHH. So are Undertaker and HHH sell outs?


Umm no. Undertaker spent the last year healing up from last year's WM. He didn't leave the business.

And HHH has been on Raw on a semi-consistant basis. First as COO, and now as Taker's WM opponent.

How in the slightest does this relate to The Rock leaving the business all-together for 7 years, telling the fans he is back and will NEVER leave, and then leaving again? Sure he has done a few satalite promos. And he has and will do a couple more promos on Raw until WM. But after WM is over, he will leave the business again. Maybe until next year's WM. Maybe for good.

[BurningHamster]

I think the ability to do promos has been going down for a long time, and I would agree that part of it may be the death of character.

Ya see, a lot of promos these days don't feel like they are in character, either because the wrestler doesn't have a character or because their character is bland. There is very little ranting and raving and outlandishness which I always thought was a highlight back in the day. Imagine if Hulk, Randy Savage, Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes just spend all their time speaking in a normal, medium-pitch, moderate volume voice.

Remember a few years ago, maybe a decade, when everyone was looking back at how great Jake Roberts was because he didn't need to shout to come across as intense? I noticed not long after that, everyone's promos stopped being loud and crazy. Problem is, a bunch of people not as creepy as Jake talking in their normal voices isn't very interesting.

In addition to that, I think promos have struggled since the attitude era when catchphrases became more important than actual promos. A whole generation grew up immitating people like The Rock (seemingly none more so than the WWE writers) and as a result, everyone had stupid rhyming nicknames or repeated lines every time they spoke whether it fit into what was going on or not and spend less time talking about what was actually going on, who they were, who they hated, why they hated them and what was going to happen as a result of said hatred.

To be fair, I think things have been on bit of an upswing since Punk starting owning it on the mic a while back but I honestly believe every wrestler should start every promo with the words "Let me tell you something, Mean Gene" and the quality would pick up from there.

[Tha Black Phenom]

The crowds in the UK still pop at WWE shows in a big way.

I think the American audience is more jaded through over-saturation.

Aye, the Canadian crowds are still raging hot as well. I remember being part of a "shut the **** up" chant during the PG era at an 08 PPV, during a Dolph Ziggler promo no less. It was pretty special.

Umm no. Undertaker spent the last year healing up from last year's WM. He didn't leave the business.

And HHH has been on Raw on a semi-consistant basis. First as COO, and now as Taker's WM opponent.

How in the slightest does this relate to The Rock leaving the business all-together for 7 years, telling the fans he is back and will NEVER leave, and then leaving again? Sure he has done a few satalite promos. And he has and will do a couple more promos on Raw until WM. But after WM is over, he will leave the business again. Maybe until next year's WM. Maybe for good.

It's no secret The Rock has another life now, that doesn't revolve around wrestling. That said, what's the problem with giving back?

Yeah he's gonna leave again, and I would think people would accept it by now. Let's say Taker plans to wrestle for WM29, he leaves for a year again to recuperate. Would there be that much of a difference between him and Rock then? One's healing up, the other's touring around the world, living HIS life, on a more approachable schedule and has the ability to watch his daughters grow up.

I recall a pivotal motive for The Rock sticking to movies being that he could be part of his family too. The wrestling lifestyle isn't all fun and games and we all know it... how can we go off on some guy for not sticking to it? By comparing him to a guy who admits himself that his movie should've maybe lasted 3 rounds instead of 12... Sure he didn't help matters when he said he was "never leaving again" but I can't be the only one who saw from the start he would never appear on a consistent basis.

[Jaysin]

The talk of over saturation reminds me of when WCW created Thunder, Vince balked at them saying they were going to oversaturate their product by having too many shows on tv...

WWE at one point had Raw, ECW/NXT, Superstars, and Smackdown plus AM Raw and those other random highlight shows that get shown at insane hours.

Talk about over saturation

[Slim Jim]

We don't know that he went to movies for the money. Maybe he went for the lighter schedule.

I'd say it would have been a combination of all the benefits acting has over wrestling. More money, less travel, less risk, more family time, more respect.

It's just an all-round better gig and the decision to leave was a no-brainer; even if fans were upset that he left, not being able to understand why he did baffles me.

[Gabbo]

I'd say it would have been a combination of all the benefits acting has over wrestling. More money, less travel, less risk, more family time, more respect.

It's just an all-round better gig and the decision to leave was a no-brainer; even if fans were upset that he left, not being able to understand why he did baffles me.

It's not an all round better gig if you love wrestling as much as he's made out. Most people will do what they love for less money and more hours than the other offer. I think it's that coupled with the fact that he literally couldn't wait to get out. A soon as he had his first major film job, he was gone within 2 years, of which he was only part time for most of those 2 years anyway.

I personally don't have a problem with him or what he's done, but I understand peoples grievances and when he's constantly trying to act like wrestling is his home and what he loves it's rather insulting. If he goes over Cena, people's dislike of him and their suspicions towards his return will be so much more amplified.

[Wrestling Century]

It's not an all round better gig if you love wrestling as much as he's made out. Most people will do what they love for less money and more hours than the other offer. I think it's that coupled with the fact that he literally couldn't wait to get out. A soon as he had his first major film job, he was gone within 2 years, of which he was only part time for most of those 2 years anyway.

I personally don't have a problem with him or what he's done, but I understand peoples grievances and when he's constantly trying to act like wrestling is his home and what he loves it's rather insulting. If he goes over Cena, people's dislike of him and their suspicions towards his return will be so much more amplified.

It is an all round better job if you are getting beat up every day with no breaks whatsoever in the job that you love. Plus, everybody keeps forgetting that the main reason he ever left WWE is because they apparently forgot to renew his contract, and whether or not they actually "forgot" or just didn't want to have a wrestler who was away filming movies alot is another story all together. The Rock probably wanted to remain a part time wrestler, but after the whole contract ordeal he stayed away from pro wrestling for a while, only making occasional appearances. Now it looks like he is here to "stay" as a part time wrestler, wrestling while he isn't filming movies.

[Gabbo]

It is an all round better job if you are getting beat up every day with no breaks whatsoever in the job that you love.

They gave him time off when he wanted to make films, they'd have given him time off if he wanted a break. He didn't, he was happy doing what he was doing until something better came along.

You missed my point completely though. He knows what wrestling entails and still claimed it to be his love, so don't try to drag out whatever negatives you can find in a business he's well aware of.

Besides I've already said I have no problem with him and completely understand his decision, but I also understand why people are hating on his performance, shilling of twitter and crap films, desperation at trying to come up with something thats original and trending and the bullshit he's been spouting for the last 10 months in the WWE.

[Slim Jim]

It's not an all round better gig if you love wrestling as much as he's made out. Most people will do what they love for less money and more hours than the other offer.

Most people will do what's best for the people they love and becoming an actor is unquestionably a smarter choice for a man with kids than being a professional wrestler.

I think it's that coupled with the fact that he literally couldn't wait to get out. A soon as he had his first major film job, he was gone within 2 years, of which he was only part time for most of those 2 years anyway.

WWE let his contract run up. There's no way of knowing whether or not he would have carried on part time if they had made an offer.

[Wrestling Century]

They gave him time off when he wanted to make films, they'd have given him time off if he wanted a break. He didn't, he was happy doing what he was doing until something better came along.


You apparently missed the entire bottom half of my post. They didn't even attempt to renegotiate with him. He probably would've continued doing part-time wrestling had they not "forgotten" to renew his contract.

[Gabbo]

You apparently missed the entire bottom half of my post. They didn't even attempt to renegotiate with him. He probably would've continued doing part-time wrestling had they not "forgotten" to renew his contract.

That doesn't have anything to do with what point I was making. Nothing at all. What are you talking about? You were trying to justify him getting sick of wrestling because he did it without a break, which isn't true they gave him time off to make films and so obviously were open to giving him time off whenever he wanted it.

What does his contract expiring have to do with that?

WWE let his contract run up. There's no way of knowing whether or not he would have carried on part time if they had made an offer.

Doesn't change the fact that he had a contract and was barely there for 2 years as he was off making films. Whilst under contract.

This wasn't a case of WWE didn't renew his contract and he had no alternative but to try his hand at films like you're almost trying to suggest. As soon as films became a viable option he was doing it as much as he could get away with and there's nothing to suggest he would have signed a new contract anyway.

[Fantabulous]

I'd say it would have been a combination of all the benefits acting has over wrestling. More money, less travel, less risk, more family time, more respect.

It's just an all-round better gig and the decision to leave was a no-brainer; even if fans were upset that he left, not being able to understand why he did baffles me.

A lot of people here baffle me with their thinking, if you can call it thinking at all. Johnson is making far more money than he could in wrestling with all the benefits you mentioned; less travel, less risk to his body, more time at home and more respect.

And yet some people still spout off gems like:

"Most people will do what they love for less money and more hours than the other offer."

Most people offered far more money for less travel, less risk to his body, more time at home and more respect will take the offer. Anybody who doesn't is either really dedicated or a moron, depending on what they have at home to work for. If it's a single guy who loves the lifestyle and has nobody depending on them, then they probably would stick with wrestling and I could see why. I'd think they're an idiot for turning down such an offer but I could see why they'd do it. But if you've got a family to look after, kids to be around, and don't look forward to the inevitable pains that a wrestling lifestyle will give you down the road, taking the offer is a no-brainer. Quite like the people who seem unable to grasp why a grown man with a family would take a better job that pays more and gives him a home life.

[djthefunkchris]

A lot of people here baffle me with their thinking, if you can call it thinking at all. Johnson is making far more money than he could in wrestling with all the benefits you mentioned; less travel, less risk to his body, more time at home and more respect.

And yet some people still spout off gems like:

"Most people will do what they love for less money and more hours than the other offer."

Most people offered far more money for less travel, less risk to his body, more time at home and more respect will take the offer. Anybody who doesn't is either really dedicated or a moron, depending on what they have at home to work for. If it's a single guy who loves the lifestyle and has nobody depending on them, then they probably would stick with wrestling and I could see why. I'd think they're an idiot for turning down such an offer but I could see why they'd do it. But if you've got a family to look after, kids to be around, and don't look forward to the inevitable pains that a wrestling lifestyle will give you down the road, taking the offer is a no-brainer. Quite like the people who seem unable to grasp why a grown man with a family would take a better job that pays more and gives him a home life.

Missed the whole point, didn't you.

[milamber]

Not the best SD but had its moments (ie. Bryan knocking his mic work out of the ballpark again, Lauranitis suggesting Kane vs Aksana, Drew McIntyre's firing... which won't last because he'll probably save Aksana). GM switch next week might be fun. Found an image Lauranitis could use in his smear campaign.

http://i600.photobucket.com/albums/tt88/milamber/longchart.jpg

[ZMAN]

I don't really see why people want to see guys from the 90's take on a full time schedule anyway. It's such a different atmosphere now that I would prefer to not have guys like Rock, Taker, HHH, and Foley wrestling full time. Just bring them out once or twice a year for the occasional dream match.

This is actually a WM that I've looked forward to all year because of The Rock. It will be the first PPV that I've paid for in eight years. I hope WWE doesn't listen to the idiots who are complaining, because I would love to see SCSA in the main event next year.

[djthefunkchris]

I don't really see why people want to see guys from the 90's take on a full time schedule anyway. It's such a different atmosphere now that I would prefer to not have guys like Rock, Taker, HHH, and Foley wrestling full time. Just bring them out once or twice a year for the occasional dream match.

This is actually a WM that I've looked forward to all year because of The Rock. It will be the first PPV that I've paid for in eight years. I hope WWE doesn't listen to the idiots who are complaining, because I would love to see SCSA in the main event next year.

I'd love to see an Austin vs. Punk feud.

[juggaloninjalee]

I'd love to see an Austin vs. Punk feud.

Me too! That would be my dream match right there but I don't think it will happen. I will try to remain optimistic about it though.

[soxfan93]

I'm going to Raw tonight. Great tickets. I'm very excited to see The Rock and Shawn Michaels. The Undertaker was scheduled for a while, but was pulled last week. :(

[cappyboy]

I'd love to see an Austin vs. Punk feud.

I know I'm the minority here but I'd hate that. I hate "Stone Cold" and always have. I know to most people he was the blue collar hero standing up to the abusive boss the way they only wished they could. But that just made it worse for me. Because the way I saw things, McMahon was right. Vinnie Mac's "oh hell no" was speaking for me. I didn't want "Stone Cold" as champ either. I saw him as a Barry Darsow character. The obnoxious, loudmouth jerk I'd always rooted to be shut up. The fact that so many people rallied around "Stone Cold" just made me hate him all the more. Now that his time is over and his career essentially over, I'm happy. I'm not getting that jerk shoved down my throat any more and I just want him to stay away. I'll bite my tongue about it if he's to be an enforcer or something. But as the driving force of a feud? Eff that. Stone Cold is a relic of the past and should remain that way. There's no room for him in my present.

[Remianen]

Missed the whole point, didn't you.

I don't think so. His point is well taken. All the people talking "for the love of the game" BS are delusional. How many people who promote that idealistic tripe are actually practicing what they preach? For the most part, they 'he should've' without looking in the mirror. If YOU aren't doing what you love, regardless of the material rewards, why should anyone else?

He loved football too (even won a national title) but I don't think any of his teammates would give up the chance to switch places with him if they could. Does that mean Warren Sapp doesn't love the game?

And the people upthread trying to say Will Smith isn't much of an actor need to get a grip too. Tell that to his accountants. You ask any of your indy darlings what they'd give for the ability to turn a weak ass script like Wild Wild West into a 200+ million worldwide gross and see what they say. Seven Pounds was awesome, I dunt care what you say.

Not the best SD but had its moments (ie. Bryan knocking his mic work out of the ballpark again, Lauranitis suggesting Kane vs Aksana, Drew McIntyre's firing... which won't last because he'll probably save Aksana). GM switch next week might be fun. Found an image Lauranitis could use in his smear campaign.

http://i600.photobucket.com/albums/tt88/milamber/longchart.jpg

That is awesome! :)

[BurningHamster]

And the people upthread trying to say Will Smith isn't much of an actor need to get a grip too. Tell that to his accountants. You ask any of your indy darlings what they'd give for the ability to turn a weak ass script like Wild Wild West into a 200+ million worldwide gross and see what they say. Seven Pounds was awesome, I dunt care what you say.


In all fairness, I always thought Will Smith was a decent actor in the right role. Sure he's a worthless human being for trying to shove his talentless children into the spotlight though. And nothing he has done in recent times has been any good. And his rapping was abysmal. And he is a goofy looking big eared moron who last I heard was getting into scientology. But still, Fresh Prince was okay and I am sure he was alright in one or two other things.

And Remi, your Wild Wild West example is .... I am not sure. Should I say that film was a monumental con job or should I say your average audience is made up of 99% idiots? Not sure how much credit Will Smith deserves for that. Probably a punch in the face from everyone who saw that film.

Back to WWE, Teddy Long also deserves a punch in the face from everyone who saw Wild Wild West.

[moon_lit_tears]

In all fairness, I always thought Will Smith was a decent actor in the right role. Sure he's a worthless human being for trying to shove his talentless children into the spotlight though. And nothing he has done in recent times has been any good. And his rapping was abysmal. And he is a goofy looking big eared moron who last I heard was getting into scientology. But still, Fresh Prince was okay and I am sure he was alright in one or two other things.

And Remi, your Wild Wild West example is .... I am not sure. Should I say that film was a monumental con job or should I say your average audience is made up of 99% idiots? Not sure how much credit Will Smith deserves for that. Probably a punch in the face from everyone who saw that film.

Back to WWE, Teddy Long also deserves a punch in the face from everyone who saw Wild Wild West.


So I take it you're a huge Wild Wild West fan? :p

Teddy and John are both idiots and they really suck. The Wwe needs to bring someone who can work into the pot. Let's face it, it's funny to make John look like an idiot, but it's overplayed.

Teddy....well he's just....ugh..

[bigtplaystew]

teddy still gets a bigger pop than more than half the roster. I don't know whether that's good or bad though.

[BurningHamster]

So I take it you're a huge Wild Wild West fan? :p


To be fair, I don't hate it so much as I just object to it existing/being held up as an example of anyone's abilities.

Anyone who has not heard the Kevin Smith Superman/Wild Wild West story should check that out on youtube.

[Wrestling Century]

I don't really understand the hate for Teddy Long. He's not all that great, but he isn't that bad either. He can easily slip into whatever storyline needs an authority, and he can easily made the fans cheer him or boo him when necessary. I actually think that he is better than Johnny Ace. Also, it could always be worse. Remember Mike Adamle being the GM? :p

[Fantabulous]

I don't think so. His point is well taken. All the people talking "for the love of the game" BS are delusional. How many people who promote that idealistic tripe are actually practicing what they preach? For the most part, they 'he should've' without looking in the mirror. If YOU aren't doing what you love, regardless of the material rewards, why should anyone else?

He loved football too (even won a national title) but I don't think any of his teammates would give up the chance to switch places with him if they could. Does that mean Warren Sapp doesn't love the game?

If someone can make a living doing what they love, more power to them. But there comes a time, maybe because of circumstances or simply because a offer of such magnitude comes along, that it makes more economic sense to give up the dream and move on. It's easy to spout off about doing things for the love of the game or some other idealistic nonsense, but it's a different madder entirely when you've come to the crossroads and are staring that big decision in the face.

[Self]

I don't really understand the hate for Teddy Long. He's not all that great, but he isn't that bad either. He can easily slip into whatever storyline needs an authority, and he can easily made the fans cheer him or boo him when necessary. I actually think that he is better than Johnny Ace. Also, it could always be worse. Remember Mike Adamle being the GM? :p

How long has he been on TV in that role? A decade? And he hasn't evolved in the slightest. Stale.

[codey]

I miss racist Teddy.

[Wrestling Century]

How long has he been on TV in that role? A decade? And he hasn't evolved in the slightest. Stale.

He had already been in the business for about 20 years when he debuted in WWE. That's like saying that The Undertaker hasn't evolved in the past 10 years (yes, his character has changed, but how he wrestles or does promos really hasn't).

[codey]

Actually, the change Undertaker's gone through has been pretty immense. The American badass promos were completely different than his undead stuff, which is different from his gothic stuff, which is different from the stuff he did when he became undead Taker again, which is still different from the stuff he's doing now.

[lazorbeak]

Well I think the "decade" comment had to be hyperbole, right? I mean the brand split was only a decade ago, and T-Lo was what, the 4th, 5th Smackdown authority figure? And he was off the show for how long while Vickie/Edge were in charge? I count that he was GM for 3 years the first run, and is closing in on 3 years for his second run. It's certainly longer than anybody else has held the position.

As far as not doing anything new, sure the character hasn't really evolved, but he's a supporting character who doesn't really carry ongoing programs, so I'm not sure that's a big issue.

[Astil]

...the hell just happened?

[GDE71]

...the hell just happened?

Rock on tape ELECTRIFYING

Rock live in ring with Cena Cena came out of this looking very good...

[20LEgend]

...the hell just happened?

I don't know...

[BurningHamster]

I don't really understand the hate for Teddy Long. He's not all that great, but he isn't that bad either. He can easily slip into whatever storyline needs an authority, and he can easily made the fans cheer him or boo him when necessary. I actually think that he is better than Johnny Ace. Also, it could always be worse. Remember Mike Adamle being the GM? :p

Teddy is just abysmal. Playa. That's all he has. He says "Playa". That's the entire sum of his contribution to the industry since he stopped being peanut head and yet he is on pretty frequently and presented in such a way that I am meant to like him. Like him because he hangs around getting rubbed by slappers young enough to be his daughters and says "Playa".

Imagine if Sonny Ohno or Bill Alfonso or any other dodgy 90s manager were in that role then think about how absolutely absurd it is that Teddy Long still has a job in 2012.

[djthefunkchris]

Teddy is just abysmal. Playa. That's all he has. He says "Playa". That's the entire sum of his contribution to the industry since he stopped being peanut head and yet he is on pretty frequently and presented in such a way that I am meant to like him. Like him because he hangs around getting rubbed by slappers young enough to be his daughters and says "Playa".

Imagine if Sonny Ohno or Bill Alfonso or any other dodgy 90s manager were in that role then think about how absolutely absurd it is that Teddy Long still has a job in 2012.

He's the "Good" GM, that's all it is. I have never understood the desire to put him in "relationships" though. I always felt he should have a pretend family or something, and be above the tedius stuff like that. It really doesn't help his character IMO.

[djthefunkchris]

...the hell just happened?

I don't know...
This..
Rock on tape ELECTRIFYING

Rock live in ring with Cena Cena came out of this looking very good...
Everytime Cena owns Rock, far as promo's are concerned. Since last Wrestlemania til' now, bassically.

I was actually thinking Cena was going to win at Wrestlemania, because of the whole passing the torch and such, but now.... I don't think he has to win at all. IF the rumor's about Rock sticking out yet another year, and doing it again are true, of course I see Rock winning, but now...

I just don't see Rock losing helping either of them out right now. Rock has to win now.

[BHK1978]

I will say one thing about Teddy, he is miles better now then when he was the manager of Doom back in WCW. I remember he used to talk and he would be facing the camera and he would not look directly into the camera, he would oddly look up at the ceiling. It is so odd that I cannot explain it, I think he must have had problems with his eyes.

[milamber]

Intro segment was boring until HBK said he was guest ref and HHH looked stunned.

Santino v Swagger - Despite all the shenanigens it was good to see Santino win the US Title.

The Rock history lessons were funny. Cena's empty stadium monologue wasn't so good.

Punk/Sheamus v Jericho/Bryan - Good teaser for Mania 28.

Rhodes finally has a decent challenger for the IC title in Big Show. I have a feeling Rhodes will drop the belt because there are no midcard faces on SD over enough to challenge him (except DiBiase and Gabriel).

The final segment was a good continuation from last week. More intensity from the Rock but Cena's still playing it cool. Cena is looking good and I wouldn't mind if he won. But a Rock win would keep the feud alive and keep Cena interesting.

[Nathers7]

Just watched it there. Rock-Cena need to get a fight going with security breaking it up or something because that was alot worse than last week from both of them.

I thought it was brilliantly put by Cole after Cena's empty arena promo "Simply put Cena is saying he needs to win", inadvertedly crapped on Cena's promo as a waste of time. I hope they spice it up some because they both just seemed half-assed.

"I'm gonna kick his bitch ass" ,"I have to win", "When are we going to see the real Rock" (didn't we see that at SS or has Cena got selective memory?), "We're all sick of Cena".

We've heard all this before. Be creative instead of just relying on the fact it's Rock vs. Cena.

Taker- HHH should be interesting now, wasn't that keen before but HBK's motives should make the match more exciting. Starting to like Laurenitis and Otunga for some strange reason lol, Otunga works well in that role instead of in the ring.

[ChrisKid]

Rock History Lessons = Entertaining
Cena's monologe = Boring
Santino winning a title = :D
Miz losing once again = :mad:

[Wrestling Century]

I actually enjoyed both Cena's monologue and The Rock's "history lessons". The Cena monologue finally set the tone for the match as being important to Cena, instead of him having a promo making funny faces. And The Rock was amazing, as always. Santino winning was an emotional mark out moment to me, I wonder if Santino was told to cry, or if he just got overwhelmed by the crowd's response to him winning the title.

[LoNdOn]

It bugs me that Cena was laughing and looking at his family in the crowd whilst he is supposed to be having a "serious" confrontation with Rock.

Surprised Rock didn't use that against Cena. Something like this:

"Look at me when I am talking to you boy! Who the hell do you think you are........huh? When the Rock is standing in front of you, you sure as hell better pay him attention before he slaps that stupid grin clean off your square-ass head!....................You want to see The Rock, well you got the Rock, John. Enough of the games, enough of the catchphrases, this is real and believe me when I tell you this John, you are going to get more of The Rock than you can damn well handle. At Wrestlemania 28, it will be The Rock laying a beatdown on John Cena so bad that even his own family........yeah, those guys right there (points where Cena is smiling), don't even recognise you!" etc, etc.

[JackKnifed72]

It bugs me that Cena was laughing and looking at his family in the crowd whilst he is supposed to be having a "serious" confrontation with Rock.





I agree...was actually starting to like Cena...but that was bush league

[GDE71]

I actually liked the start of the end bit where Cena was basically making fun of himself. Almost like he was forcing himself HEEL. However, with the Rock struggling in ring(or at least appearing to struggle), he tried to go even more HEEL by dissing Rock during the promo.

I only watched the last hour of the show and I know it's all about building for WM, but I like wrestling more than I like soap opera. I know TV isn't made for that anymore and that is probably why I don't watch much of it.

[djthefunkchris]

Wait a minute, let me write that down... 6'4", 240 lbs... Ok, got it... Rock Style.

That was hillarious.

I agree though, I felt like Cena was up there looking over at his family smiling and laughing because he's in the ring with The Rock "Look everyone, it's really him! Can you believe it? I'm in the ring with The Rock!!"

Definately gave me a Cena=Amateur moment.

[Wrestling Century]

Everybody who is saying that John Cena, a wrestler who has had tons of main event matches, storylines and promos, is an amatuer obviously haven't ever seen a real amatuer. Because Cena is nowhere near as bad as an amatuer wrestler or the bulk of indy wrestlers (and I'm talking about small, gym sized indy shows, not promotions like Chikara and ROH).

[liontamer]

hasn't he been acting that way in every face to face promo though? He's basically playing the Rock as a joke. I'm not sure it had anything to do with his family and I think part of it was due to the unexpected crowd chants. Even though Cena is from Boston the crowd is often against him and if I recall he got negative reactions during the video promo earlier in the night. To suddenly have the crowd crap on Dwayne "the tooth fairy" Johnson was kinda funny and Rock did fairly well at maintaining his composure. (PS Cena should actually start calling him that to incite even more crowd chants, if he really wanted to rattle the Rock, pay a production guy to switch the music to some sort of tooth fairy themed music as the Rock is part way into his entrance)

I thought it was good. But I'm not so sure I'm looking forward to a supershow of cena rap and sing-a-long with the rock next week though. Both should be entertaining, but that's not why I watch, I like in ring action.

[Tha Black Phenom]

I'm pretty sure they use the term 'amateur' loosely, especially if directed at Cena.

Raw was okay. While I liked Rock's history lessons, the amount of time taken for this feud is challenging my interest in it - and yet absolutely nothing intriguing with this year's Royal Rumble winner. The hottest rising babyface on the roster, and the upper-midcard babyface pool isn't all that to begin with, at least try to set Sheamus apart with something interesting other than a new finisher.

[ZMAN]

Yeah, it would be cool if they put as much effort into Bryan/Sheamus as they did Bryan/Show. It seems like a waste at this point to even put the belt on Sheamus at WM if the "moment" doesn't feel that special.

I like Rock/Cena, even though I wish it had something else going on other than the same trash talk every time.

HHH/HBK/Taker great as expected.

I really like these long term match build ups. I hope they do the same thing in 2012. Give us a Rock/??? announcement for Summer Slam.

[Candyman]

I don't think so. His point is well taken. All the people talking "for the love of the game" BS are delusional. How many people who promote that idealistic tripe are actually practicing what they preach? For the most part, they 'he should've' without looking in the mirror. If YOU aren't doing what you love, regardless of the material rewards, why should anyone else?

He loved football too (even won a national title) but I don't think any of his teammates would give up the chance to switch places with him if they could. Does that mean Warren Sapp doesn't love the game?

And the people upthread trying to say Will Smith isn't much of an actor need to get a grip too. Tell that to his accountants. You ask any of your indy darlings what they'd give for the ability to turn a weak ass script like Wild Wild West into a 200+ million worldwide gross and see what they say. Seven Pounds was awesome, I dunt care what you say.

This is all pure truth right here.

Somebody said they liked Rock back in the 90's, because he loved wrestling not the money...did he love wrestling when he was playing football for the Miami Hurricanes? Did he love wrestling when he was in the CFL? Did he "sellout" his football aspirations when he became a pro wrestler? Professional wrestler was his JOB. Just like actor is now his job. Just like it's John Cena's job. Don't get me wrong, I have a ton of respect for Cena and his passion for the WWE. But do you think Cena would be in the WWE if he was good enough to play football professionally? What about if his bodybuilding career took off? Hell, John Cena tried out LIMO DRIVING before he decided to pursue professional wrestling.

Every person in the WWE is there because of they money they make. They like wrestling, they might love it, and I don't doubt that most of them are completely dedicated to their job (a lot of people, myself included, are simply wired to give complete dedicatation to their job, regardless of how much they enjoy it) - but that's what it is to each and every one of them. A job. And if a better job came along - and I guarantee everybody there has something they'd consider a better job, just like the vast majority of people on this planet - they'd take it. Cena saying he'd never do what Rock did is completely hollow to me, because he never had the opportunity. He never had a chance to be a full time actor, he never even had a chance to be a full time rapper. Maybe he's right, maybe he wouldn't have, but nobody knows that until you're in that situation.

And of course Will Smith is a good actor. How can anybody even say otherwise?

hasn't he been acting that way in every face to face promo though? He's basically playing the Rock as a joke.

Bingo. I've never quite been able to grasp why people think Cena's a bad actor or he's not showing emotion because he acts a certain way...like, you've never seen somebody act that way in that situation in real life? I know I have. It's not like he's out there trying to act serious and completely failing. He's conveying the emotions he's trying to, and doing it well.

[djthefunkchris]

It's not all pure truth, it's pure opinion and everyone has one.

Just because YOU would take this over that, or whatever, doesn't mean someone else would.

Also, the point was made that The Rock never showed signs that he even wanted to be in wrestling for a good while, and could have. The WWE/F gave him time off to make any movies, meaning he could take as much time off as he wanted, he chose not to do it period.

The point that was made, just in case someone else wants to make a debate about something that wasn't debated (again), here it is:

IF you LOVE something, and were able to do what you wanted, and still be able to do it... Would you? Meaning, IF The Rock LOVES wrestling, and he was able to make any movies he wanted to, pluss time off when he wanted, then whey didn't he do that? It was stated that the WWE/F obviously was giving him time off whenever he wanted to do his acting.

Now, I don't know if I agree with that or not, because I don't know how much is true. I do know that WWF/E let his contract expire, but I don't know the actual reason for it. I only know what has been released since all this stuff started, which I can't take as seriousness, because it could be all part of the storylines going on.

Also, it was noted that John Cena movies do make money, and he could be a bankable Actor if he so chose to do so. His movies made money, even as second rate WWE Films.

Money is only as important as you let it be in your life. It's not the driving force in mine, and I'm perfectly happy most of the time, and alot of that has to be with liking my job.

=Also, I'm one of those people that believe The Rock has toned down to "let" Cena look good, and I think it's working. The only problem with it, is it looks like he's going to have to keep doing it all the way to Wrestlemania, which kind of sucks.

[Genadi]

I agree...was actually starting to like Cena...but that was bush league

Triple agree, waited through a year and a half worth of hype for it to come off as IMO a huge let down. Imagine the intensity most others would have brought, Cena has dropped even further down my opinion poll. His chance to prove he can hang with the real big boys on the mic (one of his biggest assets) and he's blown it thus far big time. I watched the promo most Cena fans were raving about last week and while agree it's prob his best Rock promo yet it's far from the standard guys like Rock, Austin etc were cutting every week.

Jericho vs Punk has become my most anticipated match on the card, loved there promo last week.

[BurningHamster]

I don't think so. His point is well taken. All the people talking "for the love of the game" BS are delusional. How many people who promote that idealistic tripe are actually practicing what they preach? For the most part, they 'he should've' without looking in the mirror. If YOU aren't doing what you love, regardless of the material rewards, why should anyone else?


I'm doing what I love regardless of the material rewards (or rather lack thereof) and therefore I have every right to diss The Rock. We aren't all money grubbing sellouts like you Remi. You filthy greedy soulless corporate monster :p How do you sleep at night? On a pile of money surrounded by beautiful women? You sicken me!

But then you know ... Maybe Rock loves making movies too? It's not like he went and became an accountant or something *shudder*. There are so many more reasons to dislike The Rock than the fact he went into movies. Like his childish promos, his baldness, his crappy tattooes, the fact The Rock drinking game shortened my life significantly or just that people still love the guy even though he's nowhere near as entertaining as he once was.

[Tha Black Phenom]

Bingo. I've never quite been able to grasp why people think Cena's a bad actor or he's not showing emotion because he acts a certain way...like, you've never seen somebody act that way in that situation in real life? I know I have. It's not like he's out there trying to act serious and completely failing. He's conveying the emotions he's trying to, and doing it well.

It's not that, neither of those things. People act like that yes, it's just that Cena is making the tone of the feud a tad hollow. He comes off a scathing no-nonsense promo bashing The Rock shoot-style, people all over the world and on Twitter eat it up, and the next week he pulls.. those things. There's times when he pulls it well, then there's other times where he should just put certain quirks aside for a sec. People want him to be edgy, he might as well bring it out if he's been feuding with a guy for an effin year /shrug

[Candyman]

But then you know ... Maybe Rock loves making movies too? It's not like he went and became an accountant or something *shudder*. There are so many more reasons to dislike The Rock than the fact he went into movies. Like his childish promos, his baldness, his crappy tattooes, the fact The Rock drinking game shortened my life significantly or just that people still love the guy even though he's nowhere near as entertaining as he once was.

Great point. Without knowing him personally, I would say what Rock loves most is entertaining. Performing for people. He probably loves being famous and all that goes with that. I'm sure if he was a better singer(not that he's terrible, but he's obviously not recording studio good), he'd be doing that too. Professional wrestling was just an avenue for him to do something he loves. He found a better way to do what he loves and he moved on.

It's not that, neither of those things. People act like that yes, it's just that Cena is making the tone of the feud a tad hollow. He comes off a scathing no-nonsense promo bashing The Rock shoot-style, people all over the world and on Twitter eat it up, and the next week he pulls.. those things. There's times when he pulls it well, then there's other times where he should just put certain quirks aside for a sec. People want him to be edgy, he might as well bring it out if he's been feuding with a guy for an effin year /shrug

I was just making the point that, if you don't like what he's doing, he's not doing it for lack of talent. That's just the way he's portraying his character. If you don't like the way he's potraying his character, fair enough, but most comments I've seen are implying that he's incapable of anything else and that's just not the case.

Personally, I don't have a problem with the way he acted. He was making fun of the Rock before Rock came out, and he continued making fun of him while he was out there. It fit with the tone of his entire promo. I actually thought the serious, empty arena promo seemed more out of place. I would've preferred to see that the week before WrestleMania, or even better at WrestleMania itself.

[Tha Black Phenom]

I never personally implied it was through lack of talent. More [slightly] lack of judgment than anything. I don't wanna take anything away from Cena, he's been doing a good job through this feud, and he is talented, and his tone did fit with the promo in itself.. just how much of it are we gonna be seeing? We saw the same thing around Survivor Series build-up.. not to mention after Rock gave him a Rock Bottom at the PPV, the next Raw he jostled off to the ring laughing it off. It's.. I mean, I get that it just shows how "John Cena" is( if so well figures /shrug), but I was just hoping then, at last, after that promo two weeks ago he would finally up the ante a bit in tension level. But then again, I also thought "embracing the hate" through his feud with Kane would mean another thing. So much for me and all those raised hopes, right?

[djthefunkchris]

I never personally implied it was through lack of talent. More [slightly] lack of judgment than anything. I don't wanna take anything away from Cena, he's been doing a good job through this feud, and he is talented, and his tone did fit with the promo in itself.. just how much of it are we gonna be seeing? We saw the same thing around Survivor Series build-up.. not to mention after Rock gave him a Rock Bottom at the PPV, the next Raw he jostled off to the ring laughing it off. It's.. I mean, I get that it just shows how "John Cena" is( if so well figures /shrug), but I was just hoping then, at last, after that promo two weeks ago he would finally up the ante a bit in tension level. But then again, I also thought "embracing the hate" through his feud with Kane would mean another thing. So much for me and all those raised hopes, right?

Your just frustrated, because Cena could be doing SO much better with this. It's almost as if he's been told to "Hey, tone it down a bit" every other week or something.

It's kind of the same way people are feeling about The Rock. Like he's purposely "holding back" to help John Cena look good. Then you look at John Cena and you "feel" if that's the case it's working, and then Cena pulls back yet again and you go /sigh.

Here's what I'm starting to think. I'm thinking everyone is right. The Rock comes out, pops from the crowd are outragious, "Hey Rock, we want this thing to build up into something bigger then anything before, can you tone it down a bit for now, let's give it to them in small bits." At the same time "Cena, you need to come out strong" and when Cena does, then the same type of advice comes back "Cena, your doing a little too good out there for now, we want this to build bigger then anything we ever did before, so let's tone it down tonight."

Bassically, I'm saying both are holding back. Hopefully I'm right, and hopefully I'm right in expecting things to heat up tremendously real fast. I'm hoping they both go all out before Wrestlemania, only to "pull back" at the end of the match, whomever winning giving the other some respect.

That's how I was hoping things went, till someone told me Rock is contracted for another match, or more match's or whatever. IF that's the case, I see Rock going over, and this thing continueing another year the same way till NEXT Wrestlemania, and then having Cena go over and the whole respect thing happening at that point.

Yeah, I don't see Cena winning if Rock is scheduled for next Wrestlemania as well... However, I DO see him winning if Rock is scheduled for TWO more Wrestlemania's after this one.

[Gabbo]

The feud is increasing in intensity. No doubt. Rock was very intense this week, what does Cena have to be so worked up about? He's out there to cut Rock down, and is having fun with it. Rock is the one having to suffer the personal shots and constant attacks and he's the one that's snapped first.

They had 4 weeks left, they don't need to make it as tense as they can as quick as they can. I'm sure in the Raw before Mania, or even 2 Raws before Mania both men will be bubbling with intensity.

By having them both wracked with intensity, with weeks to go, runs the risk of the feud burning out with or without physical confrontation before Mania.

Patience.

[FINisher]

For years we've been waiting for a wrestling game for PC. Then comes..

http://store.steampowered.com/app/201550/?snr=1_7_suggest__13

.. WWE Wrestlefest. ffs >_>

[Jaysin]

For years we've been waiting for a wrestling game for PC. Then comes..

http://store.steampowered.com/app/201550/?snr=1_7_suggest__13

.. WWE Wrestlefest. ffs >_>

Meh, I'd rather play a rom of Fire Pro Wrestling Returns on my PC

[ThatChizzle]

WrestleFest is for iPad and iPhone and its a button masher. I don't think it's for PC... Well, thats how the game is advertised in WWE Magazine.

[moon_lit_tears]

WrestleFest is for iPad and iPhone and its a button masher. I don't think it's for PC... Well, thats how the game is advertised in WWE Magazine.


Unless its not out yet, it's not in the market.

[LoNdOn]

Opening Raw segment: That is the kind of John Cena I find entertaining!

[ChrisKid]

i liked RAW, both Rock and Cena segments were funny, Clay wasn't as good as before he went but good to see him back on tv, getting kinda intrigued in Cena/Rock mania match aswell as Punk/Jericho match, Taker/HHH still lacking that thing that makes me hyped for it to happen a third time

[Nathers7]

Opening Raw segment: That is the kind of John Cena I find entertaining!

Same, although that's not surprising considering it was that which got him hugely over in the first place. We need the Thuganomics back every week.

Rock's concert was brilliant (mentioning Cena's wife in relation to Eve was the highlight) up until "We will rock you". Jericho dissing Punk's use of the Straight Edge lifestyle was perfect, Punk's reaction really helped make the match seem alot more serious (something which Cena-Rock has yet to do).

Team Santino vs. Team Otunga lol. They're just throwing the midcard into this obviously.

[moon_lit_tears]

I loved Raw, but I guess it's the girl in me, if Punks father IS an alcoholic and WWE is turning it into a story line I'll be sorely disappointed.

I wasn't happy when they did it with Eddie and his family after his death, plus Lawlers issues. It just irks me to no end.

[JackKnifed72]

I loved Raw, but I guess it's the girl in me, if Punks father IS an alcoholic and WWE is turning it into a story line I'll be sorely disappointed.

I wasn't happy when they did it with Eddie and his family after his death, plus Lawlers issues. It just irks me to no end.

Pretty sure that's legit, but Punk's brought it up and used it in angles/promos in ROH so not sure you can blame the 'E for this one

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcyEcKZ0Qcg

[masterded]

Pretty sure that's legit, but Punk's brought it up and used it in angles/promos in ROH so not sure you can blame the 'E for this one

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcyEcKZ0Qcg

Yeah, seeing as it is something Punk has used before in ROH something Punk suggested them using in the feud.

[moon_lit_tears]

Pretty sure that's legit, but Punk's brought it up and used it in angles/promos in ROH so not sure you can blame the 'E for this one

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcyEcKZ0Qcg

Yeah, seeing as it is something Punk has used before in ROH something Punk suggested them using in the feud.

I'll let that slide then. I just think its kinda sucky.

I guess as long as he's okay with it it's all good.

[The Final Countdown]

I'll let that slide then. I just think its kinda sucky.

I guess as long as he's okay with it it's all good.
I'm pretty sure I've heard him mention that he has little to no relationship with his family, so I guess it doesn't bother him.

[Hashasheen]

I'm pretty sure I've heard him mention that he has little to no relationship with his family, so I guess it doesn't bother him.

As I understand he's on bad terms with his dad and brother but is still close to his sisters.

[ScottMulhern]

As I understand he's on bad terms with his dad and brother but is still close to his sisters.

Wasn't it his sister that text him "OMG! Kevin Nash! I thought he was dead!"

[milamber]

Raw was better than I thought it would be. Punk v Jericho got personal, adding a new layer to an already exciting feud. Rock was funny and had the crowd in his hand but Cena's not-so-PG thuganomics stole the show for me.

http://i.qkme.me/jma.jpg

Smackdown was awesome. They've done a fantastic job of turning Bryan into a sneaky, egotistical, abusive bastard who can hold his own against main eventers like Punk. Sheamus v Jericho was easily the match of the week.

[Rone Rivendale]

Say what you will about WWE Creative but they have a knack for finding the perfect gimmick for people.

When Cena first came in, he was a bland 'blue-chipper', but eventually someone discovered that he liked to rap and BINGO, a star was born.

Santino Marella had a similar bland gimmick at first, but eventually he struck comedy gold and he has been a crowd favorite ever since.

Daniel Bryan had the same beginning but now he has a character that truly shines on Smackdown and has him as the #1 heel on the brand.

I could go on really, from Rocky Miavia becomes The Rock to The Ringmaster becoming Stone Cold Steve Austin, sometimes it just takes a poke in the right direction.

[soxfan93]

Matt Bloom has re-signed with WWE. I like it. He'll come in as Laurinaitis' bodyguard in April.

[codey]

A-Train's back? Yes! Yes! Yes!

[nucleardonkey]

A-Train's back? Yes! Yes! Yes!

Now see when I read that I had a very different thought....I thought: A-Train's back? NOOOOOOO!!!!

[Wrestling Century]

A-Train's back? Yes! Yes! Yes!
Awesome!

Now see when I read that I had a very different thought....I thought: A-Train's back? NOOOOOOO!!!!

But why? Remember the "shave your back" chants? :p

[djthefunkchris]

I believe he's been working steadily in Japan. Should be interesting...

He is my age though, curious to see how people react to an "Older" signing like that.

[Candyman]

From Daniel Bryan's Facebook page. Enjoy:

I wanted to publicly share some things that AJ can do to make herself a better Diva:

1.Be taller. Not sure how? How about trading in those Chuck Taylors for a nice pair of heels?
2.Adopt a strict vegan lifestyle to stay mentally and physically fit. Maybe if you stop eating eggs, you’ll stop walking on eggshells all the time.
3.Highlight your beauty through silence. Be seen but not heard.
4.Focus on inspiring others as a role model, exhibiting real beauty on the inside and outside … like me.
5.How about trading in those skulls you wear on your clothes for the butterfly of the Divas Title?
6.Remember that “gamer” really means “loser couch potato”.
7.Only champions have enough discipline to not get fat from eating vegan animal crackers. Please stop asking me to share and buy a second box.
8.Just consider that Pokemon is a silly children’s game and will prevent people from taking you seriously.
9.To create a constant glow, fill yourself with the blissful reality that you are dating the World Heavyweight Champion!

[cappyboy]

Now see when I read that I had a very different thought....I thought: A-Train's back? NOOOOOOO!!!!

I tend to be more with Codey on this. I always liked A-Train. Dude could be a little inconsistent at times I grant you. But when he was motivated, the guy was an absolute bulldozer who could dish out one hellacious whooping.

[Candyman]

Matt Bloom has re-signed with WWE. I like it. He'll come in as Laurinaitis' bodyguard in April.

Sadly, this was just a false rumor the dirtsheets stirred up. He's staying with NJPW. And as much as I'd selfishly like to see him back in the WWE, he's probably much better off staying in Japan.

[milamber]

Coolest match ever: Kenny Omega v 9-year-old Haruka in Japan.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/790106-wrestling-news-watch-former-roh-star-kenny-omega-wrestle-9-year-old-haruka

[Rone Rivendale]

Coolest match ever: Kenny Omega v 9-year-old Haruka in Japan.

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/790106-wrestling-news-watch-former-roh-star-kenny-omega-wrestle-9-year-old-haruka

I saw that match several months ago. It's funny and the end was predictable but still good. Kenny Omega is awesome. He can have a stellar 20 minute match with a love doll (and has)

This isn't WWE related though. :P

[djthefunkchris]

The Rock, in front of the Millions of the Rock's fans, makes a statement to John Cena! And that statement is.... Book End to anyone John Cena beats!

[bigtplaystew]

Whats with Tensai? Is there a Japanese prospect coming up that I haven't heard of?

[codey]

Nope, it's A-Train, if you remember him.

[bigtplaystew]

I saw that int he dirt sheets. I figured it couldn't be real. Is it? Is good ol' Prince Albert comin back?

[Jaysin]

http://www.ewrestlingnews.com/news/3504/breaking-news-fcw-closing-down

Apparently FCW is closing.

[milamber]

Punk cuts a good come-back promo only for Jeri-troll to get under Punk's skin again. Perfect opening to Raw.

Lord Tensai = A-Train (even though he laughed off the rumor of his return) ???

Bryan v Ryder - 2 of my favorite wrestlers. I'd love to see Ryder as a heel one day.

Cena v Henry - Henry dominating Cena (with the announcers using his car accident as a possible excuse) was awesome. I love the way Cena won because he didn't make it look like an easy superman comeback, and the Rock came out and manhandled Henry.

Miz should join Team Teddy and switch to SD so he can get his career back on track. He's going nowhere on Raw.

Vicki v Aksana catfight was funny. Swagger's new hairstyle might be lame but his hot wife doesn't seem to mind - http://twitter.com/#!/RealJackSwagger/status/177535349227139072

Not that fussed about the build-up to the End of an Era match. Is it just me or does Undertaker sound flat instead of menacing? I just want to see the match already. At least HHH looks in better shape this year.

[Fantabulous]

You mean A-Train lied? But that would mean those nasty evil dirtsheets were telling the truth? But that can't be true; they're nasty and evil and only spread lies.

[cappyboy]

Not that fussed about the build-up to the End of an Era match. Is it just me or does Undertaker sound flat instead of menacing? I just want to see the match already. At least HHH looks in better shape this year.

Funny. Because to me it's the other big non-title match that I'm not fussed about. Cena vs Rock = YAWN. The Rock was fine in his time. But I'm sorry. His act is old and tired and I'm over it. The boots to asses and the Fruity Pebbles junk and all his "clever" history lessons. Spare me. Dude's trying WAY too hard to be funny. I honestly fast forward or shut the show off before his appearances now. Rock should just stay Dwayne and stay in Hollywood now. His usefulness, at least in Cappy Land, is done.

Whereas with Trips and Taker, I'm digging the End of an Era talk. I think you could make the case that Taker sounds more flat than menacing. But in this context, I don't know that's such a bad thing. There's a real sense of finality here. Whether that ultimately means anything is anybody's guess. But it FEELS LIKE it means something. It's feels like reality is seeping through into the storyline. To the degree Taker sounds too flat to be imposing, I've gotten the sense he's done win or lose and he knows it. So he doesn't need to be as menacing because he knows he won't be around trying to back the menace up.

[bigtplaystew]

You mean A-Train lied? But that would mean those nasty evil dirtsheets were telling the truth? But that can't be true; they're nasty and evil and only spread lies.

lol What?


If you're just gonna be crabby and grumpy and add nothing to the conversation, can you at least try to make sense?

[bigtplaystew]

Dirt sheet releases story confirming the "FCW shutting down" article was wrong lol.

http://www.lordsofpain.net/news/wwe/Report_WWE_Not_Shutting_Down_Developmental_Territo ry_FCW.html

Kinda ironic.

[Fantabulous]

WWE.com ran an article about this story, and the fact they felt the need to respond at all is pretty telling.

Monday night, an unreliable online news source published an erroneous report that WWE was shutting down operations of our developmental facility, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW). In order to set the record straight, WWE.com interviewed WWE’s Executive Vice President of Talent, Paul Levesque (also known as WWE Superstar Triple H) to address this issue.

“It is absolutely not true. FCW is not closing,” Triple H said. “I don’t know how the rumor started but I believe it’s a situation where the ‘dirt sheets’ want to believe they have the scoop on everything. If anything, we are in the process of ramping up our entire developmental system. It’s the lifeblood of our company. It’s what feeds our future and in no way are we going to close it down.”

Levesque also addressed plans to relocate training or FCW TV tapings out of its home of Tampa, Fla.

“There are plans in the works, but nothing definitive I can discuss right now,” he said. “Shortly after WrestleMania, there will be a major announcement about our developmental system.”

He continued, “WWE’s developmental system is being revamped, not shut down. If anything, it’s going to get bigger and better than ever. WWE Developmental cultivates the future talent of WWE. By no means is it going to get smaller or shut down.”

In case we've got the usual suspect(s) eager to go all, "LOLZ DIRTSHEETS R RONG!!!", (too late) I'll point out that:

1) Triple H is all, "We're not closing down FCW" but then is all, ""I can't comment as to whether or not we will relocate developmental". So, which is it? You're not closing them down but you can't say whether or not you're moving developmental?

2) Take out the copy and paste sites who edit and rephrase things, the story from the main news sites was that WWE were moving developmental. Which the WWE.com article all but says is exactly what is going to happen. It was the copy and paste sites, and not the main news sites, that claimed FCW was shutting down.

3) But let's presume it's all nasty lies and FCW is not closing down. Why cancel their only TV? Why not keep it until they've moved elsewhere in Florida?

4) WWE themselves told the station carrying FCW that they were pulling out and moving things to Stamford.

5) If it is all a giant mix-up, you know what would stop stuff like this happening? Being a bit more open with the main news sites. Not the copy and paste places who turn an innocent comment into "Brock Lesnar is quitting the UFC for WWE" that the gullible believe without taking the time to check the facts on. But the main ones who are, despite what the fingers-in-their-ears crowd desperately want to believe, right more often than they're not.

But let's not stop the usual people from being all self-congratulatory about being brave souls and disbelieving those nasty 'dirt sheets (Is is 1996? We're still using an archaic term like that?).

[Astil]

I find it satisfying that not 5 posts after blasting people who are anti-dirt sheets, you are forced to defend them (the dirt sheets) when they got egg on there face. Nothing against you personally, just a big fan of irony like that.

The Rock, in front of the Millions of the Rock's fans, makes a statement to John Cena! And that statement is.... Book End to anyone John Cena beats!

That statement is... I can take credit for you doing most of the work!

[Nathers7]

Yea, I don't get why WWE creative had The Rock rock bottom a guy who just lost to Cena not long after giving such a great promo, strange booking decision there.

Jericho-Punk gets better every week, both guys on top form and Jericho wasn't even in the building.

I feel like that Taker - HHH promo was same old, same old though they're doing a good job keeping it interesting by leaving Michaels' motives unclear.

[Tha Black Phenom]

hasn't Rocky bottomed Cena like the past three times? eh, I'm fine with that.

Funny. Because to me it's the other big non-title match that I'm not fussed about. Cena vs Rock = YAWN. The Rock was fine in his time. But I'm sorry. His act is old and tired and I'm over it. The boots to asses and the Fruity Pebbles junk and all his "clever" history lessons. Spare me. Dude's trying WAY too hard to be funny. I honestly fast forward or shut the show off before his appearances now. Rock should just stay Dwayne and stay in Hollywood now. His usefulness, at least in Cappy Land, is done.


Them's the issues of booking a year-long feud.


Raw was packed. matches = short as hell, but I didn't expect otherwise on mania's eve.

Side note... this was the one Raw since he returned that he or by connection, him and Cena, haven't really been the focal point of the show. Had one segment, showed up, Rock Bottomed Henry and left. They didn't replay his promo or hype him all night, which was a nice break from the past eps putting attention on other feuds.

Thinking a movie star could be able to pull that for like five minutes' attention, to me, is crazy. These guys tour worldwide, yknow? It just made me think when Rock said "The Rock's gonna get in his car and roll down over to Belfast Arena" Just a funny tidbit to realize due to all the bad rep he gets.

Plenty of reasons to dislike him, his old act or his crazy stupid tattoos(I like the style though, no lie) but yeah.

Btw, when is Sheamus going to do anything interesting? Take notes from Miz and make somethin' happen, son.

Punk/Jericho is indeed golden, favorite feud of them all. I don't know what Punk said at the end, but either way it came across solid.

[bigtplaystew]

WWE.com ran an article about this story, and the fact they felt the need to respond at all is pretty telling.



In case we've got the usual suspect(s) eager to go all, "LOLZ DIRTSHEETS R RONG!!!", (too late) I'll point out that:

1) Triple H is all, "We're not closing down FCW" but then is all, ""I can't comment as to whether or not we will relocate developmental". So, which is it? You're not closing them down but you can't say whether or not you're moving developmental?

2) Take out the copy and paste sites who edit and rephrase things, the story from the main news sites was that WWE were moving developmental. Which the WWE.com article all but says is exactly what is going to happen. It was the copy and paste sites, and not the main news sites, that claimed FCW was shutting down.

3) But let's presume it's all nasty lies and FCW is not closing down. Why cancel their only TV? Why not keep it until they've moved elsewhere in Florida?

4) WWE themselves told the station carrying FCW that they were pulling out and moving things to Stamford.

5) If it is all a giant mix-up, you know what would stop stuff like this happening? Being a bit more open with the main news sites. Not the copy and paste places who turn an innocent comment into "Brock Lesnar is quitting the UFC for WWE" that the gullible believe without taking the time to check the facts on. But the main ones who are, despite what the fingers-in-their-ears crowd desperately want to believe, right more often than they're not.

But let's not stop the usual people from being all self-congratulatory about being brave souls and disbelieving those nasty 'dirt sheets (Is is 1996? We're still using an archaic term like that?).



WHO SAID IT WAS ALL LIES??

Lol who are you fighting with? This is such an angry post... I'm so confused.

The sites reported FCW was closing, then WWE said it wasn't closing. It's not a big deal, man.


Why the need for the thinly veiled-insult-laden temper tantrum that is this last post?

[cappyboy]

Them's the issues of booking a year-long feud.




Actually, no. I pretty well recognize it's just me. For most of the crowd he's just as good as he ever was and they are having as much fun as ever. I just don't care for his shtick. I went with it in the character's prime because it was new and different. But now every time he opens his mouth I feel like I've been there and done that. If it were someone else, somebody I were more inclined to enjoy it wouldn't be an issue. The length of the feud has nothing to do it. It's Rock's presence in the feud that turns me off. I just can't stomach him anymore.

[Candyman]

You mean A-Train lied? But that would mean those nasty evil dirtsheets were telling the truth? But that can't be true; they're nasty and evil and only spread lies.

Good point. I mean, they right on the money when they said it'd be an Undertaker/Triple H/Shawn Michaels triple threat at Mania, when they said Cena/Rock would be for the title, when they said Brock Lesnar would be wrestling at Mania, when they said Shaq would be wrestling at Mania, when they said Randy Orton would win the Rumble, when they said Brock Lesnar would be in the Royal Rumble, when they said Triple H and Undertaker would be at the Royal Rumble, when they said John Cena was going to be at TLC, etc etc.

They're right about everything! How dare they be questioned?

WWE.com ran an article about this story, and the fact they felt the need to respond at all is pretty telling.

What, exactly, does it tell? Based on your misguided views of dirtsheets, I'm guessing you're trying to imply that it's somehow telling that there must be some truth to it, which would make no sense of course.

In case we've got the usual suspect(s) eager to go all, "LOLZ DIRTSHEETS R RONG!!!", (too late) I'll point out that:

Why do you seem so surprised that dirtsheets are wrong again? Are you equally surprised when you don't win the lottery?

1) Triple H is all, "We're not closing down FCW" but then is all, ""I can't comment as to whether or not we will relocate developmental". So, which is it? You're not closing them down but you can't say whether or not you're moving developmental?

If you're going to quote somebody using quotation marks, at least try to attempt to remotely represent what was actually said. Since you were so far off from anything that he actually came out of his mouth, I can only assume that your second quote was meant to represent this:

“There are plans in the works, but nothing definitive I can discuss right now,” he said. “Shortly after WrestleMania, there will be a major announcement about our developmental system.”

Putting the fallacy of your quotes aside, you do realize that "closing down" and "relocate" mean two different things, right? It's not a "which is it" situation. It can easily be both.

2) Take out the copy and paste sites who edit and rephrase things, the story from the main news sites was that WWE were moving developmental. Which the WWE.com article all but says is exactly what is going to happen. It was the copy and paste sites, and not the main news sites, that claimed FCW was shutting down.

And those are the dirt sheets, genius. You can't "take out" the very thing you're talking about.

3) But let's presume it's all nasty lies and FCW is not closing down. Why cancel their only TV? Why not keep it until they've moved elsewhere in Florida?

That's your argument for the dirtsheets getting it right about FCW closing down? Really? Here's a few possible reasons off the top of my head:

1.Their contract with Brighthouse Network was up and the station didn't want to renew for just a few weeks.
2.They had to notify Brighthouse Network the show was ending by a certain date, like today, or they'd be on the hook for X number of more episodes - a higher total than they were willing to commit to.
3.Since it's still going to air on Brighthouse for three more weeks, maybe that's when they plan on announcing whatever changes they're going to make to the developmental system. You know, since Triple H said they'd announce something after WrestleMania. They may well be doing exactly what you said about keeping it until they move. They can easily move in the next three weeks.

4) WWE themselves told the station carrying FCW that they were pulling out and moving things to Stamford.

No they didn't. They told the station that the show was ending. I don't know where the Stamford rumor started, but one thing for certain is that it didn't come from a conversation between WWE and Brighthouse.

5) If it is all a giant mix-up, you know what would stop stuff like this happening? Being a bit more open with the main news sites. Not the copy and paste places who turn an innocent comment into "Brock Lesnar is quitting the UFC for WWE" that the gullible believe without taking the time to check the facts on. But the main ones who are, despite what the fingers-in-their-ears crowd desperately want to believe, right more often than they're not.

??? Who is this "fingers-in-their-ears crowd" you're ranting about?? The people who take joy in pointing out all the idiotic reports that originate with dirtsheets? Again, the problem with dirtsheets IS the copy and paste places, which make up a vast majority of dirtsheets. I don't even know what the hell you're talking about.

And no, no matter how much you cover your hears and scream "I can't hear you, I can't hear you, la la la," there is no site that gets it right more often than not. That's the nature of the business. Most honest reporters would laugh at a statement like that.

But let's not stop the usual people from being all self-congratulatory about being brave souls and disbelieving those nasty 'dirt sheets (Is is 1996? We're still using an archaic term like that?).

Again, what the hell are you talking about?

You need to accept the fact that dirt sheets - and no, just like most things that are 16 years old, that term is not archaic - are mostly copy and paste places. And most of the ones that aren't copy and paste places are worse than copy and paste places, they're places that make things up own their own without talking to anybody outside of their basement. You can't just "take them out" and act like dirt sheets are reputable, honest sources of information. The "main ones" are few and far between. And, for the life of me, I can't figure out why the hell you think those are the sites people are talking about when they talk about what jokes the dirt sheets are.

[BurningHamster]

Kudos to The Miz for saying Little People instead of Midgets I guess.

For a company that is so heavily involved in all the B A STAR anti-bullying stuff, it's about time someone sent out a memo to stop using derogatory terms.

Or you know ... WWE could stop being pansies and let heels display as much bullying, socially-unacceptable behaviour, bad language, etc as they want since they are bad guys and meant to do things that are not good.

Either way, it's best to be consistent one way or the other as it just makes them look like massive hypocrites otherwise.

[djthefunkchris]

I'm not sure I'm going to get this Wrestlemania after all... Thought for sure I would since I have been doing it for a few years now.

The only feud right now, that is making me want to watch is CM Punk/Jericho.... and to be honest, it would be the first time I ever bought a PPV for Jericho (I have for Punk a few times now).

Just don't know if it's worth the investment right now. They better do something quick... because The Rock is boring me, and Cena is only looking halfway decent because of that fact. This match just doesn't seem to matter anymore, far as outcome... Possibly because I've heard Rock is already scheduled for next years Wrestlemania, possibly because I don't see a reason for either of them to have to win anymore. It's like a toss up for nothing but bragging rights for a year, which doesn't really interest me right now.

I might be alone, but Taker/HHH isn't interesting to me at all either. Don't know where they went wrong, because I actually wanted to see that before it started happening.

[BHK1978]

I'm not sure I'm going to get this Wrestlemania after all... Thought for sure I would since I have been doing it for a few years now.

The only feud right now, that is making me want to watch is CM Punk/Jericho.... and to be honest, it would be the first time I ever bought a PPV for Jericho (I have for Punk a few times now).

Just don't know if it's worth the investment right now. They better do something quick... because The Rock is boring me, and Cena is only looking halfway decent because of that fact. This match just doesn't seem to matter anymore, far as outcome... Possibly because I've heard Rock is already scheduled for next years Wrestlemania, possibly because I don't see a reason for either of them to have to win anymore. It's like a toss up for nothing but bragging rights for a year, which doesn't really interest me right now.

I might be alone, but Taker/HHH isn't interesting to me at all either. Don't know where they went wrong, because I actually wanted to see that before it started happening.

I agree with you fully on this, but then again I cannot even remember the last time I have watched a Wrestlemania live. The last one I clearly remember getting was the last one that Brock took part in. I am not sure if I have gotten one since.

The WWE and I guess wrestling in general just does not do it for me. I mean I watch TNA and try to catch RAW every week but I just feel that they are both blah for me. The Rock concert was just another reason why I am not a fan of the current landscape of wrestling.

Mark Madden wrote a good article about it on WrestleZone, he basically said what was the point of it (talking about the Rock concert). How is having that segment on television going to sell the pay-per-view? How did that segment add anything to their feud?

Like you said the only match that interests me is the Punk/Jericho match. That match in and of itself is not enough to make me want to part with fifty dollars or whatever ungodly amount they are charging for Wrestlemania this year.

[BurningHamster]

I might be alone, but Taker/HHH isn't interesting to me at all either. Don't know where they went wrong, because I actually wanted to see that before it started happening.

I'm with you on that, not sure when or how but they definitely dropped the ball somewhere in there as I'm finding myself really bored by the whole Trips/Taker/HBK stuff right now.

[Tha Black Phenom]

I'll tell you why, because they are generally men of action. Either you have Undertaker doing his supernatural ish(the videos were a nice touch I thought) or you have Triple H.. he's heavy on the vocal side but has always been seen ready to throw it down as well. And the last few weeks have had the intensity stall, with them just getting into the ring and.. talking. Milking HBK for all his worth isn't enough, maybe if they didn't hype every week like "HBK and Taker in the ring at the same time!" it would've come across better. Since HHH muttered the words "Hell in a Cell" there's nothing that's jumped at you from them in a "wow" manner, they're trying to tell a hell of a story through their promos but the momentum's going downhill. No kicks, no beatdowns, just mic work and staring. I'm sure the editing team are in candyland when it comes to their eventual video package though.

Rock/Cena almost got to that point but they've switched it up a bit and kept things entertaining(IMO), but of course some people will still be bored because of several factors, for one the usual hipster syndrome, not wanting to care about the match everyone talks about. Or the length, or... well they haven't been spectacular on the momentum aspect either.

That's why through all that, I'm still hoping for Sheamus to do something worthwhile. Something to complement Bryan's awesomeness or just show him up in some way, more than a brogue kick.

[BHK1978]

Rock/Cena almost got to that point but they've switched it up a bit and kept things entertaining(IMO), but of course some people will still be bored because of several factors, for one the usual hipster syndrome, not wanting to care about the match everyone talks about. Or the length, or... well they haven't been spectacular on the momentum aspect either.

For me it is not even the hipster syndrome, I like both the Rock and John Cena (Yes I am a John Cena fan, how can you hate on someone who helps out Make a Wish as much as he does.). I am just thinking that wrestling might be passing me by. I do not enjoy the lame skits and stupid catchphrases that need to be repeated over and over again. I do not care what is trending on Twitter; to me it does not sell the feud.

Like I said maybe because I am older but this stuff just does not connect with me. To be honest I was not a huge fan of the Attitude Era either because at the time I saw it as Vince’s way of trying to be like ECW. Yes I have always been a fan of the Rock, Austin, and Undertaker but I have not really been able to get into the WWF/E for a long time.

I am not trying to be too cool for school when I say this, this is just my opinion. I guess my tastes have changed. The same thing happened to me with the NBA, from when I was a kid in the mid-80’s until around say 1998, I was a huge fan of the NBA. I followed it religiously and could talk on almost any topic in regards to the NBA. However, I have since lost interest in the NBA, there are very few players I like who are currently playing. Heck I do not think I have watched a whole game this season. So perhaps my feelings about wrestling are going the way my feelings for the NBA went.

[milamber]

For me the problem is the long build-up to Mania. As of last week, it's felt like they're just spinning their wheels on Raw and SD. Only the Punk v Jericho and HHH v Undertaker (with Michaels) feuds moved up a gear (and the segments for the latter for me have been hit and miss). Rock v Cena hit it's peak 2 weeks ago. I think it's a really strong card this year but I just want to see the damn matches before I lose interest.

[BHK1978]

For me the problem is the long build-up to Mania. As of last week, it's felt like they're just spinning their wheels on Raw and SD. Only the Punk v Jericho and HHH v Undertaker (with Michaels) feuds moved up a gear (and the segments for the latter for me have been hit and miss). Rock v Cena hit it's peak 2 weeks ago. I think it's a really strong card this year but I just want to see the damn matches before I lose interest.

That is actually a very good point it does seem that the problem could be the long build ups. I wonder why that is the case though. I mean wrestling in the past had what, about three or four months to build up to the next PPV (I am talking about when there was only the big four PPVs.), they did a good job back then. Yes back then there was not two weekly television shows and most of the buildups were done via angles and promos. It just seemed that it was done better back in the past. Maybe it is me wearing my rose colored glasses when looking at the past but to me it was done better in the past.

I think the problem could very well be overexposure, they have too much time to fill. Now I am not saying put an end to Smackdown I am just saying that it would be better if they just had RAW to worry about.

[20LEgend]

It does seem that we have great matches which could've happened 3 weeks ago but with the same heat for me. The big 3 matches will be awesome, but the booking hasn't been so it's a good job they have the name attraction really.

[juggaloninjalee]

The Rock Conert gave us the line about Cena being married and making out with Eve. That was the best part. Should have been followed up though with Cena going crazy on the Rock. Didn't Kane force Cena to embrace the hate going into Mania?

HHH and Undertaker would have been more interesting if HBK super kicked Undertaker. Then the following week kicked HHH. It would be good because everyone would think HBK is going to help HHH. Then the next week he swerved everyone and now they thing he is neutral. Would have been better than these staredowns.

Jericho and Punk are having a great feud heading into Mania. I like it and am really excited for the match.

Bryan vs Sheamus is looking like a good match I think. I actually could see Bryan winning somehow but wouldn't mind if Sheamus won since his amazing push.

[b0shey]

The Rock Conert gave us the line about Cena being married and making out with Eve. That was the best part. Should have been followed up though with Cena going crazy on the Rock. Didn't Kane force Cena to embrace the hate going into Mania?

HHH and Undertaker would have been more interesting if HBK super kicked Undertaker. Then the following week kicked HHH. It would be good because everyone would think HBK is going to help HHH. Then the next week he swerved everyone and now they thing he is neutral. Would have been better than these staredowns.

Well then it would reveal Takes bald head and since WWE wants to seal it until Mania that wont happend.

[djthefunkchris]

That is actually a very good point it does seem that the problem could be the long build ups. I wonder why that is the case though. I mean wrestling in the past had what, about three or four months to build up to the next PPV (I am talking about when there was only the big four PPVs.), they did a good job back then. Yes back then there was not two weekly television shows and most of the buildups were done via angles and promos. It just seemed that it was done better back in the past. Maybe it is me wearing my rose colored glasses when looking at the past but to me it was done better in the past.

I think the problem could very well be overexposure, they have too much time to fill. Now I am not saying put an end to Smackdown I am just saying that it would be better if they just had RAW to worry about.

... I mean that as a pause as I ponder what it is exactly that I want to say. Ok, here goes...

I know how far back you go (just as much as myself). Your talking about two different era's, where the "Main Attractions" weren't as visible as they are now... SURE, they were on every week, but the thing is, alot of times (talking 80's and earlier) it was "re-runs" of what had happened.

Back to the present. I understand the point about having one show instead of two show's, but it really boils down to use of time. Mania is close upon them, and they are going to give the main feuds the most time. Trouble is, they aren't evolving them as much as we would like to see. Two show's or not, I have a feeling we would get the same amount of time devoted to them, which means half the other stuff we wouldn't have seen at all.... and that might not mean much in the here and now, but for the future it means quite a bit, or it should.

NOW me... I think you touched on what has been bugging me. Instead of doing the same bits week after week, I would have enjoyed things more had they focused on something else, and just did the old "Re-Run" thing... because to me, that is bassically what they did, just did the same thing again instead of showing the re-run... well, I guess they showed the re-run too..

For me what it boils down to is use of time more then anything. They have two shows that I'm guessing they are trying to keep rated well. So they give us everyone they can in those two show's that have proven to help ratings. I understand what they are doing, and I understand why that would make a bunch of people go "You know... They might as well just have one show!" Because really, that is what they have... One show. The WWE show, which has two parts, Monday is part 1, Friday is part 2. The time they spend on the Main Event or Main Characters, no matter the night, makes it feel like they don't have "enough". What I would rather see is them make use of the undercards more then they do. IF they centered the show around the people trying to "Make It" to the big gold, and used the Upper card to promote only the PPV's and not have them dominate the shows, I think it would really increase the main reason they have a split roster to begin with....

I'm not saying don't have Raw roster members on Smackdown, or vice versa, I'm saying center the show around the middle-lower cards, and use the Main Characters of both shows to kind of highlight it.... The foundation needs to be the lower card, the top should stay at the top til they drop.

See, I told you if I thought about it I would make it completely understandable! (I know I didn't, but I really did try to).

[Fantabulous]

I do love the idea of Shawn pointlessly turning on both Undertaker and Triple H and removing one of the key selling points of the match, that being the suspect impartiality of the referee and the danger that puts the streak in. Why not just have an impromptu Triple H/Undertaker to main event Raw while you're at it and have Undertaker win right in the middle, so you can swerve the internet fans into thinking Triple H has to be winning now so he gets his win back?

[milamber]

Oh Danny Boy! Bryan is my favorite wrestler right now. Followed closely by Punk and Jericho. Bryan and AJ are even making the SD Divas segment watchable.

The WWE show, which has two parts, Monday is part 1, Friday is part 2. The time they spend on the Main Event or Main Characters, no matter the night, makes it feel like they don't have "enough". What I would rather see is them make use of the undercards more then they do. IF they centered the show around the people trying to "Make It" to the big gold, and used the Upper card to promote only the PPV's and not have them dominate the shows, I think it would really increase the main reason they have a split roster to begin with....

Well I've noticed micarders like DiBiase, Hunico and Gabriel have disappeared on SD as they focus on guys like Bryan, Sheamus, Show and Rhodes heading into Mania. And they're stretching out the Teddy vs Johnny build-up way too long. It doesn't take a genius to figure out what the final teams will be.

[bigtplaystew]

"Daniel Bryan is a great lover..."

lolz


And btw.... Zack Ryder seemed to m to have the biggest pop of the night. Maybe they should, ya know, give him something decent?

[Jaysin]

Undertaker vs Triple H rap (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpFAMI3odNM&feature=youtu.be)

John Morrison blatantly rips off Epic Rap Battles of History, but some of it's pretty funny.

[ChrisKid]

Undertaker vs Triple H rap (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpFAMI3odNM&feature=youtu.be)

John Morrison blatantly rips off Epic Rap Battles of History, but some of it's pretty funny.

Pretty awesome

[jsnypade33]

Pretty awesome laughed my beer belly off

[juggaloninjalee]

I didn't think that video was very good. I mean it was funny but only a little.

[Blake Trask]

I'm starting to look at Cole and Booker T as a RL example of bad chemistry between announcers.

[TheKenwyne]

I'm starting to look at Cole and Booker T as a RL example of bad announcers.

Fixed.

[milamber]

This week's Raw got me semi-interested in Team Johnny v Team Teddy. The Undertaker v HHH video promo did more for me than most of their recent in-ring promos.

Punk v Christian was fun with Punk taking out his frustration over Jericho.

Oops, I just Big Showed in my pants.

Rock v Cena - Finally... the intense face-to-face promo they needed to deliver before Mania.

[milamber]

Undertaker vs Triple H rap (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpFAMI3odNM&feature=youtu.be)

John Morrison blatantly rips off Epic Rap Battles of History, but some of it's pretty funny.

If only he had been even 25% as entertaining in WWE he might not have been future endeavored.

[Jaysin]

If only he had been even 25% as entertaining in WWE he might not have been future endeavored.

He didn't get future endeavored, he quit.

[juggaloninjalee]

He didn't get future endeavored, he quit.

He didn't quit his contract expired I thought.

[Jaysin]

He didn't quit his contract expired I thought.

He didn't want to sign a new contract. Which is basically quitting.

[liontamer]

After last night, I'm thinking the Rock and Cena will be toe to toe and then the Rock will win either via flash pinfal (not saying he won't the finisher in, just that it will come out of nowhere or possibly be a new finisher), cheating, or accidental dq. Between the loss and the crowd heat, Cena will go nuts, "embrace the hate" and lay a monstrous whooping on him post match to give Rock an excuse to be on the shelf and off tv until the rematch, hopefully in a few months and not at next years 'mania. It may actually turn into a prolonged feud with a few matches back and forth.

[juggaloninjalee]

After last night, I'm thinking the Rock and Cena will be toe to toe and then the Rock will win either via flash pinfal (not saying he won't the finisher in, just that it will come out of nowhere or possibly be a new finisher), cheating, or accidental dq. Between the loss and the crowd heat, Cena will go nuts, "embrace the hate" and lay a monstrous whooping on him post match to give Rock an excuse to be on the shelf and off tv until the rematch, hopefully in a few months and not at next years 'mania. It may actually turn into a prolonged feud with a few matches back and forth.

See I thought that Rock vs Cena would happen at Summer Slam and then the 3rd and final match would be next years Mania or at the Rumble. I wouldn't mind it.

I like your idea about the Rock having a new finisher. Don't think it will happen but it could be interesting.

Am I the only one here at GDS who feels the hype for Mania has gotten worse over the last 3 weeks? I am getting it but it was a terrible build to Mania I feel outside of Big Show vs Rhodes, and Punk vs Jericho.

[bigtplaystew]

I wish Punk and Jericho gave me a better build. Punk's been arguing with a TV screen for a few weeks now when something more interesting could have been going on. Of course, if it all culminates in an amazing match I am fine with whatever.

Rock and Cena has been decent. I'm feeling that match big time. I'm way pumped or Show/Rhodes. The Teddy/Johnny stuff is kind of a mess. I can't believe they'd give two terrible talkers so much screen time building up to mania, but I guess it's a cheap way to get 10+ wrestlers a decent spot at the PPV.

[juggaloninjalee]

I wish Punk and Jericho gave me a better build. Punk's been arguing with a TV screen for a few weeks now when something more interesting could have been going on. Of course, if it all culminates in an amazing match I am fine with whatever.

Rock and Cena has been decent. I'm feeling that match big time. I'm way pumped or Show/Rhodes. The Teddy/Johnny stuff is kind of a mess. I can't believe they'd give two terrible talkers so much screen time building up to mania, but I guess it's a cheap way to get 10+ wrestlers a decent spot at the PPV.

That is the only reason they did it. I wouldn't be surprised if Teddy Long and Johnny Ace aren't GMs in a month. I wish they would get rid of the whole GM idea. Wrestling is better with an authority who shows up every few months when something cheap or controversial happens not multiple times in 1 show (my opinion).

I just think the authority role is played out and stale now.

[Astil]

Question for the masses: Is Wrestlemania lacking now that Money in the Bank is no longer a part of it.

[djthefunkchris]

Question for the masses: Is Wrestlemania lacking now that Money in the Bank is no longer a part of it.

Yes, but it opens Wrestlemania up to try other things now, although I don't see them doing anything worthwhile yet.

The success of MITB is why it's been moved from Wrestlemania (my opinion). If I'm working for WWE and I'm thinking money, I would move anything that seems to draw away from the one PPV a year I know makes money, in order to make more money somewhere else.

It's like a club having Ladies Night on a weird night (Thursdays or Tuesdays). Friday and Saturday going good... Do the special on a day that's not in order to make another good night.

[Astil]

Yes, but it opens Wrestlemania up to try other things now, although I don't see them doing anything worthwhile yet.

The success of MITB is why it's been moved from Wrestlemania (my opinion). If I'm working for WWE and I'm thinking money, I would move anything that seems to draw away from the one PPV a year I know makes money, in order to make more money somewhere else.

It's like a club having Ladies Night on a weird night (Thursdays or Tuesdays). Friday and Saturday going good... Do the special on a day that's not in order to make another good night.

I've heard from somewhere else that moving it to SummerSlam was a thought, in order to help build it as a 'big' PPV

EDIT: I still think it should be on WrestleMania. MitB matchs seem less special now, as does WM without it (to me)

[bigtplaystew]

They should either move MitB back to wrestlemania or consider a similar tradition in it's place. Some kind of tournament or special match event where you can give a mid carder a really special moment to help elevate their careers.

It seems silly to me to just take it away.

[Occasional_Z]

They should either move MitB back to wrestlemania or consider a similar tradition in it's place. Some kind of tournament or special match event where you can give a mid carder a really special moment to help elevate their careers.

It seems silly to me to just take it away.

I agree - it's a great opener for 'mania.

Plus, having a PPV called 'Money In The Bank' and two MITB matches on it just waters the concept down. Should just be once a year like the Rumble.

[bigtplaystew]

So what's the general feeling on Wrestlemania 28 as we head into the last few days before the show?

Are you guys excited?

I am. As I've gotten older, Wrestlemania has meant less and less to me over the years. I guess it's the fact that when I was young and in high school, almost ALL of my friends had at least a passing interest in it. Now that I'm a bit older it's been less relevant socially in my world.

I also feel it's been WWE's approach. They haven't commited to many meaningful long-term storylines in years.

This year they've gotten back to it a little. Maybe it's that. Maybe it's the few nods back to the Attitude era. But I'm pumped for wrestlemania more than I have been in years.

Rock and Cena has been a great build. I'm really impressed with how that played out. I was unsure how the feud would progress over the past year, but I feel it has. I'm interested in John Cena and what happens to him win or lose, which I think was the goal.

Punk versus Jericho is one I'm really excited about. The build didn't blow me away but it didn't stink either. I just think the match between these two has potential to be legendary. I think both will want to steal the show and I like the way they match up against each other.

I am loving Daniel Bryan right now. Shaemus hasn't really "taken the ball and run with it" like I would have like to have seen, but he's decent in his face role. He's getting nice pops at least. So I think this needs to be a really great match but if it is, it'll make WWE fans take both guys more seriously as main eventers.

I'm slightly less interested in Undertaker/HHH. I feel like the general buzz on this match is lukewarm among hardcore WWE fans. Depending ont he match quality and the end result, we might see something special. Or we might see an overbooked dud like I feel like we got last year.

[Tha Black Phenom]

I'm excited but at the same time I'm not. Thought last Raw was really underwhelming. Whole lotta talking and no ass kicking, they relied a lot on the cut-with-a-knife tension approach but I also prefer other areas they delivered less on.

The card looks incredibly strong and that's the main thing going for it. Looking forward to Punk/Jericho and Cena/Rock the most(purely for the crowd response). If everything checks out, I may be watching the event at the theater on the big screen and having our own crowd within the theater room just adds to the event.

[TakerNGN74]

Here is what I am looking forward to about the show.

Jericho/Punk is the match I am mostly looking foward to, great build IMO in the short time that they have been building it. This match could steal the show.

Sheamus/Bryan the match that was supposed to happen last year at Mania, I was looking foward to it last year and now that it has a storyline to it Sheamus being the Rumble Winner and Bryan being the World Champion this could be a great match as well.

Taker/Triple H can't wait to see a hell in a cell match at Mania (Bossman/Taker doesn't count in my book) it will truly be the end of an era and I think that they will go all out especially if its possibly Taker's last match.

The Rock vs. John Cena, I think the build for this match for the past year has absolutely sucked. They have done nothing in a year except for craptacular Rock Concerts and the Cena Rap (although Cena going old school was awesome) but they havent really done anything for me to get me into it. I am going to enjoy the match as I am sure that it is going to be awesome but I am just not that impressed with the build.

On another note I heard that Vince wants to book the main event for WM 29 at Raw the night after Mania 28 like they did with Cena vs. Rock last year. If they do this I just hope they go about it differently this time around and I hope the match that they are going to build for a year isn't another meeting between Rock and Cena although I have a feeling that it will be.

A while ago when the Rock vs. Cena match was booked for this years Mania I read an article about whether or not they will be able to build it for a year without dropping the ball and in my opinion they dropped the ball big time on the build for the match. Maybe its the era I grew up watching wrestling but I like it when they build a long term match WHERE SOMETHING ACTUALLY HAPPENS DURING THE BUILD to get me interested and Cena Rock hasn't done that for me although it could be a great match I hope it is for the crap build it has had.

The only thing that I really liked during the build to the match was the promo Cena cut where he said that at WreslteMania he was fighting for everyone in the locker room whos dream it was to become a pro wrestler and stay a pro wrestler. I normally don't cheer for Cena in matches but I will be cheering for him in his match with the Rock, although from a business standpoint it would probably be a wiser decision to have The Rock win if they are going to have a rematch next year at Mania 29 but who knows where it will go.

[supershot]

Maybe its the era I grew up watching wrestling but I like it when they build a long term match WHERE SOMETHING ACTUALLY HAPPENS DURING THE BUILD to get me interested and Cena Rock hasn't done that for me although it could be a great match I hope it is for the crap build it has had.



I feel the same way. It is possible that this isn't there last match. They could have another match planned.
It could still heat up if they have another match at WM29 and make it a 2 year feud. :p

[milamber]

Mania is just another PPV to me and it often feels too gimmicky. I'm psyched for Jericho v Punk and Cena v Rock. I'm okay with HHH v Taker but I feel it's a wasted opportunity to put over a talented midcarder and the buildup felt almost pointless considering it's a rematch. And I would watch Bryan wrestle anyone right now.

The rest of the card is decent. Team Johnny v Team Long might be fun but without ADR, Barrett, Christian and DiBiase we instead have to watch guys like Khali.

I predict Jericho will beat Punk and Bryan wiill retain.

[dpoolez]

The only thing that I really liked during the build to the match was the promo Cena cut where he said that at WreslteMania he was fighting for everyone in the locker room whos dream it was to become a pro wrestler and stay a pro wrestler. I normally don't cheer for Cena in matches but I will be cheering for him in his match with the Rock, although from a business standpoint it would probably be a wiser decision to have The Rock win if they are going to have a rematch next year at Mania 29 but who knows where it will go.

QFT, not normally a Cena fan but Rock is either too old to do his same routine or i just grown out of it. Rocks style is there but even compared to Cena, theres been very little substance from Rock for a good part of the feud.Honestly, this feud has me thinking that Cena may be a better all-round promo guy than Rock. Either way i actually want Cena to win.

[milamber]

If it's 3 matches for Rock/Cena, they need one at Summerslam. Drawing it out until WM30 with 1 match per year would suck.

[juggaloninjalee]

I am excited for Mania because of the fact it is Wrestlemania.

The build just wasn't that good for me.

Rock and Cena was not a very exciting build that makes me want to see the match. I want to see the match because it is a dream match.

Jericho and Punk looks like a good match and the build was the best out of all the Mania matches I feel.

Sheamus and Bryan looks to be a good match. Sheamus seems to me like the least talked about Royal Rumble winner that I can remember.

Rhodes and Big Show was a good build and a match I am excited to see. Hoping Rhodes manages to walk out with the title still.

Dissappointed that Rey Mysterio, Alberto Del Rio, and Christian aren't going to be on the show. MITB could have fixed Del Rio and Mysterio not being on the show. Could have gotten rid of the RAW vs SD match as well as I don't care about the GM storyline. Too much focus is put on the GMs on a regular basis anyways.

[djthefunkchris]

Pretty sure that the GM vs. GM thing allows more people to be in it then the MITB match did, correct me if I'm wrong.

I was thinking about that earlier, when people were talking about the MITB match, and why they would change it out.

[Jaysin]

I think that if there was no GM, people would complain because there's no authority figure.

I'll watch Wrestlemania, not live, but I'll watch it.

Really only interested in D-Bry/Sheams and Punk/Jericho. Rock/Cena and Undertaker/HHH both give me the Hogan/Andre feel. Not going to be a great matches, but going to have the drama to keep you into it.

I just hope Undertaker and HHH is better than last year.

[Ping von Erich]

William Regal and the NXT guys should walk out and insist to be a part of the big tag match, have Johnny Curtis or Derrick Bateman pin Santino or Swagger thus making Regal the GM of all three brands.



Legit, right? How awesome would that be? Not only is it a great underdog story, not only does it put over all the NXT guys involved... but William f'n Regal would be on my television all the time... which would be beyond awesome.

[milamber]

I'd love to see some 3-way tag matches in WWE. Regal as GM -- I could dig it, sucka.

[djthefunkchris]

I think that if there was no GM, people would complain because there's no authority figure.

I'll watch Wrestlemania, not live, but I'll watch it.

Really only interested in D-Bry/Sheams and Punk/Jericho. Rock/Cena and Undertaker/HHH both give me the Hogan/Andre feel. Not going to be a great matches, but going to have the drama to keep you into it.

I just hope Undertaker and HHH is better than last year.

I don't think I'm going to be paying for this one either... Just not feeling the whole "Rock" thing, and I seriously doubt Taker vs. HHH is going to be better then last years.

Only match I actually "want" to see now, is Punk vs. Jericho, and well... only because of the uniqueness of them. I am not into Jericho like most are, never have been, and so I just don't see it worth paying Wrestlemania price for.... I can see parts on Youtube, or the WWE websight I imagine, and it will be the best parts.

I thought I would be all out for Cena vs. Rock, but it left me.... I don't know, I guess I was expecting alot more out of both of them... but really I have to say that I got bored of Rock early, and Cena can't hold it together for me.

EDIT: Sheamus, Bryan and the rest... well. To me they are nice and all, but when I think Wrestlemania (and my dollars), I think "Epic" stuff... and they aren't exactly "Epic" yet.

[The Final Countdown]

EDIT: Sheamus, Bryan and the rest... well. To me they are nice and all, but when I think Wrestlemania (and my dollars), I think "Epic" stuff... and they aren't exactly "Epic" yet.
Despite my love for Bryan, I agree (though probably for a different reason.) That match doesn't "feel" like a Wrestlemania World title match to me, and I think it's largely because they've done a poor job of building it up. Bryan's "feud" with Sheamus, such as it is, is a far cry from what he had going with Big Show at the beginning of the year. I think it would've been for the best if they'd stretched that feud with Show out until Mania.

All in all, though, I'm more interested in Mania than I have been in years. The build for Rock/Cena has been underwhelming a lot of the time, but the uniqueness of the match is still there. From a historical perspective, it truly is a dream match. I'm super excited for Jericho vs. Punk, I'll be happy to see my boy D-Bryan enter the biggest show of the year as the world champion, and I'm even kind of interested in Taker vs. HHH, despite HATING their match last year. I'm actually more interested in Mania than I am in the ROH doubleshot this weekend, which I wouldn't have thought possible a few months ago.

[lazorbeak]

EDIT: Sheamus, Bryan and the rest... well. To me they are nice and all, but when I think Wrestlemania (and my dollars), I think "Epic" stuff... and they aren't exactly "Epic" yet.

Nobody starts out "epic" though. That's what killed/kills me about stuff like Undertaker/Triple H last year when they were pretty clearly looking to do Taker/Barrett and Triple H/Sheamus last year before somebody said "hey maybe I'm not coming back next year I don't want to go out against a kid" and proceeded to have a decent but not great match against each other.

I mean how many "Wrestlemania moments" did they feed Randy Orton before he didn't need it any more? From being the focus of Evolution's match with Mankind and Rock to his program with Undertaker to title matches to CM Punk last year, they've made it clear they think he's a big deal (although they really didn't find much for him to do this year). If you don't do that with guys like DB and Sheamus and the rest, then they never end up feeling particularly "epic," because you don't have any slow motion montages of high contrast Wrestlemania footage that makes it look like it was the ending to a Rocky movie.

[milamber]

SD was light on matches as expected. I like the Matthews/Striker combo. Less predictable and annoying than King, Booker and Cole.

McIntyre v Ryder - These guys have decent in-ring chemistry.

Jericho v Kofi - Good match. Kofi is underrated.

[bigtplaystew]

I watch wrestling with my DVR. I never fast forward Kofi's matches. He's a very good performer.

[BurningHamster]

You guys need to stop saying positive things about Kofi. Dude flat out sucks horseballs. Ooh look, I can jump really high to deliver something that isn't even really a move. In all the time he's been around there have only been two occasions where i was like "Yeah okay, Kofi is alright tonight". Dude needs to disappear or at least be hidden in a tag team where his many many many flaws are made less obvious. Stupid Evan Bourne being a druggy.

I am down with the Regal GM idea though, I mean .... Johnny and Teddy are both pretty meh. If I never saw Teddy again I would be pretty happy ... he did his little dance a couple weeks ago, I chuckled but won't next time I see it, and JL is I dunno ... don't think I quite hate him since he fills his role about as well as you can expect someone with no talent to.

[codey]

Anyone remember Commissioner Regal? Those days were great!

[juggaloninjalee]

You guys need to stop saying positive things about Kofi. Dude flat out sucks horseballs. Ooh look, I can jump really high to deliver something that isn't even really a move. In all the time he's been around there have only been two occasions where i was like "Yeah okay, Kofi is alright tonight". Dude needs to disappear or at least be hidden in a tag team where his many many many flaws are made less obvious. Stupid Evan Bourne being a druggy.

I am down with the Regal GM idea though, I mean .... Johnny and Teddy are both pretty meh. If I never saw Teddy again I would be pretty happy ... he did his little dance a couple weeks ago, I chuckled but won't next time I see it, and JL is I dunno ... don't think I quite hate him since he fills his role about as well as you can expect someone with no talent to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJNqywkzqng 15 moves of Kingston. I don't have a problem with him. He is unique compared to the rest of the WWE.

[djthefunkchris]

Anyone remember Commissioner Regal? Those days were great!

Not being picky or anything, but I can never really see what all the love for Regal is about. I don't dislike him by any means, and find him somewhat funny at times. I like him alot better as a good guy then a bad guy, but it seems everyone else likes him as a bad guy better.

I don't know if I'm missing the boat on him or what... I see posts like this all the time, and when I think back to something like the quoted, I don't see it as great as everyone else seems to think of it.

As I said, I don't dislike him... but I've always felt him best as a "Face" comedy role, with exceptional technical skills. I've always wanted them to run him as a technical wrestler, that "heels" have to beat in order to move up the card... with full blown storylines of it. Never seems to happen though. Kind of like a JBL role in reverse (and could include money, doesn't matter to me).

[LoganRodzen]

Really excited for Wrestlemania tomorrow night. I haven't watched RAW or Smackdown or a PPV (besides bits and pieces) since last years Wrestlemania. I actually got the second half of my 14-hour shift (7a-9p) at work tomorrow covered so that I'd make it back for the show. I have a good idea as to what order the card will probably be in and I think I have every winner picked but Cena/Rock...

If Cena wins Miami should riot...

[Jaysin]

I'd much rather Cena win.

[Wrestling Century]

You guys need to stop saying positive things about Kofi. Dude flat out sucks horseballs. Ooh look, I can jump really high to deliver something that isn't even really a move. In all the time he's been around there have only been two occasions where i was like "Yeah okay, Kofi is alright tonight". Dude needs to disappear or at least be hidden in a tag team where his many many many flaws are made less obvious.

I agree with you. The only time he is entertaining IMO is when he's in a MitB match or some other gimmick match with lots of other wrestlers. He can do very entertaining spots in matches, but IMO it seems like he has no in ring/match psychology and just tries to throw a bunch of jumpy/aerial/athletic moves in his matches.

[Tha Black Phenom]

There's apparently a bunch of dirtsheet rumors flying around, including a major star returning at the event, and a big name having his final Mania(but not his final match). Of course, rumors blow up at this time of year but you never know. I guess there are some additional factors to look forward to.

[BHK1978]

There's apparently a bunch of dirtsheet rumors flying around, including a major star returning at the event, and a big name having his final Mania(but not his final match). Of course, rumors blow up at this time of year but you never know. I guess there are some additional factors to look forward to.

Yeah I just read that both Batista and Brock Lesnar are in Miami and that Lesnar just signed a one year contract. We shall see if it is true or not.

[Jaysin]

Today being April Fool's Day and Wrestlemania day means I probably won't be reading dirt sheets at all.

[ChrisKid]

I'd much rather Cena win.

I think i feel the same way, i like Rock more but I want Cena to get the win even if he cheats to win

My Wrestlemania XXVIII Predictions

The Rock vs. John Cena

Triple H vs. The Undertaker
(Hopefully both men retire following the match)

CM Punk (c) vs. Chris Jericho

Daniel Bryan (c) vs. Sheamus

Cody Rhodes (c) vs. The Big Show

Randy Orton vs. Kane

Team Teddy (Santino Marella (captain), R-Truth, Kofi Kingston, Zack Ryder, The Great Khali, and Booker T) (with Hornswoggle) vs. Team Johnny (David Otunga (captain), Mark Henry, Dolph Ziggler, Jack Swagger, The Miz, and Drew McIntyre) (with Vickie Guerrero)

Kelly Kelly and Maria Menounos vs. Beth Phoenix and Eve Torres

Epico and Primo (c) vs. Justin Gabriel and Tyson Kidd vs. The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso)

[djthefunkchris]

Interesting ChrisKid, I like those results... Yep, little ...'s at the end of that statement. Just because I can't help thinking that the last three predictions are going to be wrong. The last one, toss up to me, but I'm pulling for the Uso's, since they haven't been thrown away yet.

I think Beth and Eve's losing, for the feel good moment and celebrity on Kelly Kelly's side. Seems the celebrities have been winning every year, and I see no reason to do otherwise this year, as Beth and Eve can easily make up for it after the "moment" on the next Raw or Smackdown (if needed).

I don't see Teddy team losing either. It's another "feel good" moment I don't think they want to mess up, considering if the rest of your predictions is right (mainly Cena winning), this could help balance things out.

I think of this as their biggest circus act effort, and I feel they try to make everyone at least halfway happy with it year after year. I just see the "good" guys winning more then the bad this year, or overcoming.

I don't really see Cena winning this match up though, if reports are accurate about The Rock sticking around for more match's. I have felt he was going to win all up til' those reports though.

[codey]

I lucked out and got to work the the 11pm-7am shift tonight, so I actually get to watch Wrestlemania. It starts at 4 here, so hopefully it doesn't run longer than 6 hours. Something tells me it won't.

This will actually be the first PPV I've ordered since the first One Night Stand. Here's hoping it can't stand up to that amazing show.

[codey]

Also, not to double post, but I would actually like to see Big Show take the IC title off of Cody Rhodes. Rhodes can easily recover from the loss and without the title he can finally move up the card into the upper echelon on Smackdown, and Big Show with the IC title could create a lot of interest in the title again since he'll always be one of the most over stars in the company and he could lend some of that to the midcard.

[Hashasheen]

Also, not to double post, but I would actually like to see Big Show take the IC title off of Cody Rhodes. Rhodes can easily recover from the loss and without the title he can finally move up the card into the upper echelon on Smackdown, and Big Show with the IC title could create a lot of interest in the title again since he'll always be one of the most over stars in the company and he could lend some of that to the midcard.

Post Smackdown Feud Scene (as I see it):

Sheamus (c) versus Cody Rhodes
Daniel Bryan versus Randy Orton
Big Show (c) versus Mark Henry or Drew McIntyre (renewed push)


It all depends on the Draft, I guess. They might send over Swagger and a few other heels (Miz, Alberto) and get Rhodes in return.

[supershot]

It all depends on the Draft, I guess. They might send over Swagger and a few other heels (Miz, Alberto) and get Rhodes in return.

Is there a draft this year? I just don't see the point if every show is a "Supershow".

[juggaloninjalee]

I think they are trying to slowly get rid of the brand split. Or dull the lines between the 2 shows at least. That is why they are getting rid of 1 of the GMs I think.

[djthefunkchris]

I don't know what they are doing, but I do know that they have stated that their biggest stars of both shows are going to be appearing on both shows, as people were upset that went to see Smackdown and didn't see "Cena" or "Miz" or whomever, then on Raw, were upset they didn't see "Kane" or "Undertaker"... keeping in mind this statement was made when Undertaker was alot more active.

So yeah, I don't see them keeping with the split as being the only people that show up for the TV shows, but I do see them keeping both shows, and keeping the undercards split up for the most part. So the draft is still worth it IMO.