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Sunday Night ShowDown! - Episode 03 - Bryan Danielson vs Jushin “Thunder” Liger

   Welcome to the third edition of “Sunday Night Showdown!”. This will be a weekly series that will highlight a selected match from any wrestling federation, past or present, to review and dissect for you great wrestling fans across the globe. These episodes will be uploaded every Sunday night on Tumblr, then shared via my personal Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

   This week’s edition, we will take a look back at Ring of Honor “Weekend of Thunder”, which took place in 2004. This was a special tribute show paying homage to one of the greatest international (Japanese) wrestling stars of all-time: Jushin “Thunder” Liger! On this night, Jushin “Thunder” Liger would compete against Bryan Danielson. Yes, my friends. Before the days of Daniel Bryan and the “YES! Movement”, we had “The American Dragon”.

   No feud. No bitter rivalry. Simply a beautiful match from bell-to-bell with two amazingly gifted athletes. Having said that, let’s sit back, relax and enjoy this breathtaking encounter between Liger and Danielson.

CLICK HERE - Bryan Danielson vs Jushin "Thunder" Ligerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eK5rwHdw4GE&t=6s

   We start the match with a big show of respect given by the ROH crowd, as they heavily begin to chant “Liger!”. Bryan Danielson and Jushin Liger shake hands, as the official “Code of Honor” is now in effect. The bell rings to start the match. Liger applies a side headlock into a leg scissors. Bryan counters into a Regal Stretch-like submission maneuverer. Liger counters out of the hold into a camel clutch. Bryan breaks free from the submission move and goes after the leg, performing a standing leg snap on Liger. Danielson then applies a standing toe hold on Liger, but Liger is able to reach the ropes to break the hold.

   Standing armbar applied by Bryan. Both men exchange various flips and counters, before Liger connects with an arm drag. The crowd begins chanting for “Liger!”. Both men go for a test of strength, as Liger wins this battle of strength. Bryan is able to counter and slaps on the side headlock. Bryan bounces off the ropes and hits the shoulder tackle on Liger but to no avail as Liger no sells the tackle. Bryan bounces off the ropes, performs a baseball slide into the Surfboard Stretch on Liger, as Liger powers out of the hold and applies a Surfboard Stretch of his own, then applies a Dragon Sleeper with the legs grapevined for added pressure. Bryan Danielson breaks out of the hold.

   Liger bounces Bryan off the ropes and hits the Tilt-A-Whirl Backbreaker. Bryan Danielson rolls outside the ring. Jushin Liger hits a Cross Body Block over the top rope and to the floor on Bryan. The crowd erupts into chants for “Liger!” once again, as Bryan Danielson takes offense and flips off the crowd.  Bryan then slams his hands on the ring apron out of anger and frustration. With Liger back inside the ring, Bryan follows him and reenters the ring. Bryan Danielson hits the Knife Edge Chop, then a European Uppercut on Liger in the corner, then follows up with a thunderous headbutt.

   Both men begin exchanging chops and uppercuts, left and right. Bryan catches Liger with a knee lift as Liger came running towards him off the ropes. Liger ends up on the ring apron, as Bryan Danielson dropkicks Jushin Liger to the arena floor. Bryan begins to taunt the crowd, as he exits the ring and goes after Liger. He tosses Liger into the steel barricade, then goes after the mask of Jushin “Thunder” Liger. Bryan rakes the eyes of Liger and hits a European Uppercut before slamming Liger once again into the steel barricade on the opposite side.

   Bryan flips off the crowd again, as they begin chanting for Liger. Both men reenter the ring. Bryan takes down Liger with a rear chin lock into a lower abdominal stretch submission. Liger counters out into a crucifix pin for a two count. Bryan hits a beautiful Double Underhook Suplex for a near fall. Danielson reapplies the rear chin lock once more, as he attempts to rip off Liger’s mask. The crowd chants: “Let’s Go Liger!” as Bryan flips off the crowd one more time. From here, Bryan Danielson picks up Jushin “Thunder” Liger and executes the Airplane Spin, then into the Rolling Fireman’s Carry Slam.

   Bryan Danielson heads to the top rope and goes for the Diving Headbutt, but Liger is able to move out of the way just in time. Liger then heads to the top rope and attempts a Diving Headbutt of his own, as Bryan is also able to move out of the way. Both men stand up to their feet and immediately begin exchanging Knife Edge Chops and European Uppercuts. Liger eventually gets the upper hand and hits a Running Palm Strike to the chest of Bryan into the corner. He sets Bryan up on the top turnbuckle, then nails the Hurricanrana. Liger goes for the pin but is only able to get a two count.

    Bryan Danielson retaliates and hits a standing dropkick to take Liger down. He pulls Liger up to his feet and applies a standing arm breaker, doing everything in his power to break the arm of Liger. Bryan hits a German Suplex pin attempt but gets a near fall. From here, Danielson applies his signature Cattle Mutilation submission. Liger counters into a pin attempt, but to no avail. Bryan goes for a roll-up pin and gets a two count. Both men stand to their feet, as Bryan Danielson hits a Rolling (Discus) Forearm, followed up by a Dragon Suplex Pin but can only get a near fall on Liger.

   Bryan Danielson applies the Cattle Mutilation once again. Liger is able to fight out of the hold and reaches the ropes to break it. Both men up to their feet, as Liger blocks the Vertical Suplex attempt by Bryan and counters into a Brainbuster. Liger signals to the crowd and drills Bryan in the chest with a Running Palm Strike, then follows up with a Rolling Savate Kick, then finishes off this sequence with his trademark Liger Bomb but can only get a two count.

   Liger positions Bryan up on the top rope. Bryan and Liger exchange blows from the top turnbuckle, but Liger is able to regain the advantage as he hoists Bryan Danielson up in the air and drives him down with an unbelievable Top-Rope Brainbuster! Jushin “Thunder” Liger goes for the pin and gets the victory over “The American Dragon” Bryan Danielson.

    What did you think of the match? Let me know in the comments below or submit your thoughts on my Twitter or Facebook page at the links below. Thank you for reading and for watching the match. I will see you all next week for “Sunday Night ShowDown!”. Also, don’t forget to like and follow my pages for access to my latest writings and ongoing updates!

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MLW Fusion - Episode 06 - Shane Strickland vs Pentagon Jr.

EPISODE 06 “Pentagon Jr. vs Shane Strickland – World Heavyweight Title Fight”

Synopsis:

   MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

   Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, Sabu, Dusty Rhodes, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

   We open up MLW Fusion with the arrival of Shane Strickland, as he’s welcomed to the arena by a herd of reporters. Salina De La Renta approaches Shane Strickland and wishes him good luck. Strickland calls her a “bitch” as we go inside the arena to Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini. They promote the MLW World Heavyweight Championship match for later tonight and if Strickland is 100%. We go to the ring for our first contest.

Santana Garrett vs Chelsea Green

   Hand shake and show of respect by both women. Both ladies go into a collar-below tie-up. Multiple reversals by both women. Santana connects with the headlock takedown. Chelsea counters with the leg scissors. Santana kips out of it. Armbar by Santana. Chelsea counters into the armbar. Santana counters as well into the armbar, then side headlock. Chelsea reverses into the side headlock. Roll through counter and cartwheels by both women, cover for a one count by both women with various leg trips, then a big slap by Chelsea. Crowd gets excited. Santana gets fired up with right hands. Double Arm Underhook Takedown and then a short kick into the bridge cover by Santana. Chelsea is backed into the corner. Chelsea slams Santana face first into the corner. Crowd cheers for Chelsea as she gets the crowd behind her. Running Knee Lift into Santana. She goes for the cover and gets the two count. Various two counts, as Chelsea begins to lose her sanity.

   Chelsea starts mount punching Santana to the back of the head as she starts pulling the hair of Santana and slams her into the corner. She slams Santana with the irish whip to the middle rope/corner. Surfboard Stretch on Santana. She starts laughing manically. She starts slapping the referee with a cloth, then applies a side headlock on Santana to wear her down. Crowd starts to get behind Santana. Santana tries to fight back but to no avail. Both ladies start exchanging punches. Santana gets the upper hand. Santana irish whips Chelsea into the corner. Santana gets taken to the apron. Chelsea hits her with repeated kicks to the chest. Santana catches her by the foot and swings her down face first on the apron. Running shoulder charge missed as Chelsea goes down. Santana goes to the trop rope with the Crossbody Block for the near fall. Handspring Elbow into the corner into the Russian Leg Sweep for the 2 count. Forearm shot and headbutt by Chelsea. Chelsea is positioned on the ropes. Headscissors Takedown attempt is countered into a Double Foot Stomp by Chelsea, who misses. She recovers with the Back Stabber/Lung Blower for a near fall. Jumping DDT by Santana connects as she covers Chelsea to get the three count and the victory. After the match, Chelsea embraces Santana, as Santana reluctantly accepts the hug.

Simon Gotch Prize Fight (Open Challenge)

   We see highlights from two weeks ago, when Jimmy Havoc was laid out by Team Filthy. Tom Lawlor cuts a promo apologizing from the bottom of his heart for the beating he laid on Jimmy Havoc. That despite going through hundreds of vicious thumbtacks and tables he can’t handle a few punches from a real man. There is nothing that he can do under the sun because he won’t step into it to stop him. It’s not his fault that he’s back home in London town, having a great time sipping tea and crumpets. This is about real physical combat and when you step into the ring with a guy like him. Jimmy will get exactly what he deserves, and he apologizes for that.

   Team Filthy make their way to ringside. Simon gets on the microphone. He says Team Filthy have laid down the gauntlet and that everyone will get to witness the first ever Simon Gotch prize fight challenge to the finest athletes in the world. If anyone can last more than 5 minutes with Simon Gotch, you will be rewarded with $250. If you think you got what it takes, try to come out here and take what he’s got.

   The challenge is answered by Danny Santiago. Danny bows to Simon, as a traditional martial artist would do to show respect. Crowd chants lets go white belt. Bell rings as Simon extends his hand. Both men shake hands. Danny attempts a kick and gets dropped with the T-bone Suplex. Simon hits the Gotch Piledriver and goes for cover to get the pin fall victory.  Team Filthy drops the $250 dollars on the body of Danny Santiago as we go backstage to MLW correspondent Kaci Lennox.

   Kaci Lennox is set to interview Maxwell J. Friedman. Joey Janella and his manager Blake come out of his locker room, saying they weren’t doing nothing “bad”. They walk away, as our main event is coming up next. Kaci tracks down Maxwell Friedman outside of his locker room. He smells smoke, he enters the locker room and finds cigarette, beer and condoms laying around. Kaci tells Maxwell what had happened as he storms off, threatening legal action from his attorney’s.

   We now see a video package for Shane Strickland versus Pentagon Jr. Hyping up the upcoming title match.

MLW World Heavyweight Championship Match – ©Shane “The Swerve” Strickland vs Pentagon Jr.

   Pentagon Jr. and Salina De La Renta enter the ring. Salina has a Mariachi band enter the ring. Salina wants the band to sing the Mexican National Anthem before their match. This goes over decently with the crowd, as the band leaves the ring for the entrance of Shane Strickland. Crowd starts chanting “Swerve!”. Both men get into a little shoving match, before the bell rings. Bell rings as we start the title match.

   Crowd breaks out into Swerve chants. 50/50 chants for both men, as Pentagon Jr gets the crowd behind him as well. Pentagon taunts Shane Strickland, as Strickland and Pentagon exchange right hands. Running back elbow by Strickland. Super Kick by Pentagon, but this is countered by Strickland into a Running High Knee. Pentagon exits to the outside. Strickland hits a Baseball Slide to Pentagon as both men continue fighting outside the ring. Hard right hand by Shane Strickland, then a forearm shot. Shane hits another hard-right hand. Shane climbs to the apron, jumps and connects with the Diving Axe Handle Smash to the face of Pentagon Jr.

   Both men enter the crowd. Shane continues to punch away at Pentagon. Placing him on the chair and hits a Running Double Chop to the chest area. Both men reenter the ring. Shane attempts a springboard move but is countered into a Super Kick to the midsection by Pentagon. Overhand chop by Pentagon on Shane, as both men fight on the arena floor. Pentagon chokes Strickland with a camera wire. Pentagon enters the ring and tries to hang Strickland with the wire around the ring ropes, then ties him up in the ropes with the camera wire. He then begins delivering multiple rapid-fire knife edge chops to Shane, the finishes off with a big overhand chop.

   Pentagon Jr. unties the cable. He whips Strickland with the cable wire, as both men enter the ring. We see Low Ki watching on from ringside. Pentagon hits a Low Roundhouse Kick to the knee of Strickland. Another kick to the knee of Strickland, taking him down for a one count only. Strickland begins to favor the knee. Running Kick to the face by Pentagon as he taunts Strickland, then kicks him hard in the face, then goes for the cover for a two count.

   Crowd breaks out into 50/50 chants again for both men. Pentagon Jr connects with rapid fire kicks to the legs and midsection. Knee lift by Strickland to counter, but Pentagon Jr catches him with a Power Bomb instead. Knife Edge Chop by Shane Strickland, then lays in the punches and kicks to Pentagon in the corner. Irish whip countered into a 6.1.9 by Strickland, roll through into the cutter is countered into a Super Kick by Pentagon. Strickland retaliates with a cutter for the near fall.

   Strickland lowers the knee pad. He goes for the knee lift and into the headstand, but Pentagon catches him with a kick to the face to send him down. Pentagon Jr. gets only a one count with the cover. Running low kick to the ribs into the arm snap attempt. Shane fights out of this and reverses into an arm drag, then an attempt to apply the Key to Swerve City (Cross Armbar) but doesn’t quite get it locked in all the way. Pentagon Jr. fights back by kicking Shane in the chest. Running Slingblade by Pentagon off the ropes. He hits the move twice as Strickland hits an Enziguiri Kick, then a Super Kick by Pentagon, as both men connect with a Super Kick to take each other down.

   Both men end up outside the ring. Shane takes control of the match and sends Pentagon Jr back into the ring. Both men are now on the apron. Low blow by Pentagon Jr to set him up for the Pentagon Driver (Package Piledriver), but instead hits a Canadian Destroyer on the ring apron. Both men are sprawled out on the arena floor as Pentagon sends Strickland back inside the ring for the cover and the two count. Strickland begins to favor the neck. Pentagon Super Kick’s him back down, not once but twice. Strickland keeps getting up for more. Pentagon Jr. hits another Super Kick. Shane keeps getting up and pulling himself up with the ropes. Pentagon goes for a Super Kick but is countered into the knee lift to the back of the head for a two count. Shane Strickland goes for a German Suplex but gets countered into a roll-up pin attempt reversal by Pentagon for a two count. Pentagon Jr. hits the Fear Factor for a near fall. The crowd erupts in excitement, as they break out into “Swerve!” chants.

   Pentagon Jr. brings in a steel chair and sets it up in the middle of the ring. Pentagon Jr. sets Shane on the top turnbuckle, overhand chops him, as he sets up for a possible Hurricanrana. Shane fights back and pushes Pentagon Jr off, as Pentagon gets knocked into the chair. Strickland dives off the ropes, as Pentagon catches Strickland in mid-air, hits the Pentagon Driver for a near fall as the crowd gasps in shock that Shane Strickland kicked out!

   Salina De La Renta gets on the apron. Pentagon sprays the mist into Salina by mistake, as he aimed for Shane Strickland. Salina rolls around in pain on the floor, blinded by the mist. Shane catches Pentagon with the knee lift. Strickland then jumps off the top rope, hits the Swerve Stomp and gets the cover for the pin fall and victory. Shane Strickland retains the MLW World Heavyweight Championship! Shane Strickland celebrates with the crowd as MLW Fusion goes off the air for this week’s show.

 Match Grading:

1.       Santana Garrett vs Chelsea Green (2 ½ Stars)

2.       Simon Gotch vs Danny Santiago (1 Star)

3.       Shane Strickland vs Pentagon Jr. (4 Stars)

For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

4.       MLW on YouTube: Click Here

5.       MLW on Twitter: Click Here

6.       MLW on Facebook: Click Here

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The Final IV - Bound for Glory

Welcome to the first edition of “The Final IV”. This will be a weekly series where we break down the Top 4 events, matches, wrestlers, promotions, and anything else in between, in relation to the crazy world of professional wrestling. This is intended to be a series written to be short, sweet and to the point on each topic. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!

This week we will cover the Top IV “Bound for Glory” pay-per-view events over the history of Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA). This Sunday night, on October 14th, 2018 will mark the 14th annual Bound for Glory pay-per-view extravaganza featuring the main event pitting Impact Wrestling World Heavyweight Champion, Austin Aries defending his title against Johnny IMPACT. Therefore, in honor of Impact Wrestling’s premiere wrestling event, it is now time to list the Top IV Bound for Glory pay-per-view events.

#4 – Bound for Glory (2010)

Bound for Glory (2010) was the sixth annual Bound for Glory to take place in TNA/Impact Wrestling’s history. Bound for Glory (2010) took place at the Ocean Center in Dayton Beach, Florida on October 10th, 2010. The show drew in 3,500 fans. The big storyline for the show was culminated around the date of the event: “10-10-10”. The date we would hear repeated at nauseum by “The Monster” Abyss for weeks and weeks leading into Bound for Glory. Abyss claimed on this night, “They” would reveal themselves to the wrestling world and that everything would change in TNA forever.

Outside of the big storyline, the matches at Bound for Glory (2010) weren’t too memorable, outside of the main three that were heavily promoted. We saw Jeff Jarrett “walk out” on his tag team partner, Samoa Joe, during their 3-on-2 Handicap Match against Sting, Kevin Nash and D’Angelo Dinero. This would tie in for what was to come later on in the evening. We also saw a brutal “Lethal Lockdown” match featuring EV 2.0 (Raven, Rhino, Sabu, Stevie Richards and Tommy Dreamer) versus Fortune (AJ Styles, “Cowboy” James Storm, Kazarian, Matt Morgan and Bobby Roode), as we saw the former “ECW Originals” get the big victory over Fortune, who were arguably the best young wrestling stars TNA/Impact Wrestling had to offer, collectively.

Then we get to our main event featuring Jeff Hardy, Mr. Anderson and Kurt Angle for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. As per stipulation, if Kurt Angle loses the match he would be forced to retire from professional wrestling. The big reveal for “10-10-10” came to fruition, as Eric Bischoff and Hulk Hogan made their respective heel turns. While the Hogan and Bischoff heel turn could be seen as predictable, the heel turn of fan favorite Jeff Hardy was the talk of the evening. Bischoff and Hogan gave one of Hogan’s crutches to “The Enigma” Jeff Hardy to use as a weapon to assist him in his title victory. Jeff Hardy would smash the crutch over the back of Kurt Angle, then drop Mr. Anderson with the Twist of Fate to get the pin fall and the victory. Hardy celebrated his win with Bischoff and Hogan, laughing in the face of the audience, as TNA President Dixie Carter looked on in total disbelief at ringside. Then, we saw the rest of “They” come out to celebrate the big reveal and victory, as Abyss and Jeff Jarrett came down to embrace the trio. Rob Van Dam came out to get some answers from his “friend”, Jeff Hardy, only to be taken down with a shot to the head with the TNA World Heavyweight Title by Jeff Hardy. This would lead into the group forming “Immortal” the following week on TNA Impact. A storyline that would dominate TNA programming until the following year.

With that being said, let’s get to #3 on our countdown,

#3 – Bound for Glory(2011)

Bound for Glory (2011) took place at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, PA on October 16th, 2011. The event drew in 3,585 wrestling fans. This was the seventh Bound for Glory event in the company’s history. This was a very big show that featured a lot of memorable moments and matchups that took place. This was a fun crowd, as one could expect from a wild and rowdy Philadelphia wrestling audience.

We saw another chapter written in the historic rivalry dating back to the days of ECW, between Rob Van Dam and Jerry Lynn. RVD and Jerry Lynn wrestled in a “Full Metal Mayhem” match, with “The Whole F’N’ Show!” getting the victory over Jerry Lynn. The storyline was surrounded by their history of Jerry Lynn being “sick and tired” of living in RVD’s shadow, in spite of supporting RVD throughout the past several months in TNA. They had a score to settle and it had to be settled in Philly.

Velvet Sky captured her first TNA Knockouts Championship in a victory over Madison Rayne, Mickie James and Winter in a Fatal Four Way Match. This wasn’t the best match on the card but was a pivotal moment in the career of Velvet Sky. This title victory would be her first Knockouts Championship title reign and be one of the biggest moments of her TNA career.

AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels rekindled their feud heading into Bound for Glory, as they would wrestle in an “I Quit” match. Definitely not the best match these two men ever had but was a respectfully decent match. Fortune were broken up, with Daniels turning heel on AJ Styles to reignite the feud and setup the match.

Next, we would have one of the biggest moments in the entire pay-per-view. We had a No Holds Barred showdown between Hulk Hogan and Sting. By no means, this was going to be a wrestling classic, much less considered a “great match”, by any stretch of the imagination given that both men were past their prime. However, they were able to tell a good story leading into this event. Sting is fighting to back control of TNA Wrestling from Hulk Hogan and Immortal, surrounding the events that took place over a year ago at Bound for Glory (2010). Sting wanted to see the old Hulk Hogan back, and not this façade that he had been portraying since he and Bischoff took control of TNA. The stipulations were that If Hogan won, Sting would be forced to leave TNA forever. If Sting got the win, Dixie Carter would regain control over the company.  Sting would get the victory over “The Hulkster” by submission with the Scorpion Deathlock in a bloody brawl. Afterwards, members of Immortal, including Eric Bischoff, would get involved to attack Sting. Sting pleaded and begged for help from Hogan. At that moment, Hogan had an epiphany of sorts, as he snapped, tore his bloody “Impact Wrestling” t-shirt off and turned on his Immortal brethren, including a disgusted Eric Bischoff. Sting and Hogan would embrace, signifying Hogan’s face turn as Dixie Carter wept and cheered on with joy from ringside.

The main event featured TNA World Heavyweight Champion, Kurt Angle defending his title against Bobby Roode. This was a good main event, that showcased the skills and talent Bobby Roode had to offer in TNA. Angle would be victorious on this night, as he would defeat Bobby Roode to retain the title.

This was a disappointing finish to many wrestling fans who were ready to see Bobby Roode become the next TNA World Heavyweight Champion and become the new face of the company. In spite of this, the fans would not have to wait much longer, as Roode would later on capture the title from “Cowboy” James Storm, who would defeat Kurt Angle for the title just a couple weeks after this event. Roode would turn heel and smash a beer bottle over the head of Storm to become the next champion and set up his reign as the “It Factor” of professional wrestling, becoming the longest reigning TNA World Heavyweight Champion in company history.

#2 – Bound for Glory (2007)

Bound for Glory (2007) took place on October 14th, 2007 at the Gwinnett Center in Duluth, Georgia. The event drew in 4,000 wrestling fans. This would be the third Bound for Glory event in TNA’s history. This event would be a pivotal turning point for the company and featured a stellar card from top to bottom.

Some of the big match highlights included a “Tag Team Ultimate X Match” between L.A.X. (Homicide and Hernandez) versus Triple X (Senshi and “Primetime” Elix Skipper). This was a great match to kick the show off, as both teams took advantage of the Ultimate X elements and did a lot of very good high spots. The Latin American Xchange would defeat Triple X and go on to become the #1 Contenders for the TNA Tag Team Titles.

AJ Styles and Tyson Tomko became the new TNA Tag Team Champions by defeating Ron “The Truth” Killings and Consequences Creed (Xavier Woods), with NFL star Adam “Pacman” Jones in their corner. We also saw a battle for the ages, as the Steiner Brothers (Rick and Scott Steiner) defeated Team 3D (Brother Ray and Brother Devon) in a “Two-out-of-Three Falls Tables Match”. We also saw the traditional “Monster’s Ball” match, featuring “The Monster” Abyss defeating Raven, Rhino and Black Reign (Goldust).

Our highlighted matches were Samoa Joe defeating Christian Cage in a grudge match via submission, with Matt Morgan as the special ringside enforcer in what arguably could be considered “Match of the Night”, alongside the main event that was to come later.

The biggest moment in terms of the history of Bound for Glory and TNA came to fruition, as Gail Kim became the first ever TNA Knockouts Champion, winning a special “Gauntlet for the Gold” match by last eliminating Roxxi Laveaux. Other participants included were: Traci Brooks, Jackie Moore (Jacqueline), Shelly Martinez, Awesome Kong, O.D.B. Angel Williams (Angelina Love), Christy Hemme, and Talia Madison (Velvet Sky). This would be the pinnacle and defining moment in Gail Kim’s illustrious career, as she would later retire and become a TNA Hall of Famer in 2017.

Our main event featured a wrestling classic between two legends and TNA Hall of Famers. Sting and Kurt Angle, for the World Heavyweight Championship. This match had everything. Excitement.  Drama. Wrestling. Brawling. Color (Blood). You name it. This would be one of Sting’s best matches of his TNA career, as the same could be said for Kurt Angle as well. Sting would defeat Kurt Angle to capture the TNA World Heavyweight Championship to cap off a special night in the history of TNA. TNA Bound for Glory (2007) would be one top events of 2007 and remains as one of TNA’s top pay-per-views of all time.

So, what could be better than Bound for Glory (2007) you may ask? Well let’s get to #1 and find out!

#1 – Bound for Glory (2005)

The very first annual Bound for Glory (2005) took place on October 23rd, 2005 from the “Impact Zone” in Orlando, Fla. This show was the pinnacle of TNA Wrestling for its time. This was a stellar card from top to bottom. You had Samoa Joe (coming off his run in Ring of Honor) facing the legendary Jushin “Thunder” Liger. An “Ultimate X Match” with Petey Williams, Chris Sabin and Matt Bentley. America’s Most Wanted (AMW) vs The Naturals for the NWA Tag Team Titles. Not to be mention an incredible 30-Minute Iron Man Match between AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels. Let’s not forget about Rhino, who wrestled not one, not two but three matches and became the new NWA World Heavyweight Champion all in one night following a change in the main event between Kevin Nash and Jeff Jarrett, when Nash was hospitalized and unable to compete. Rhino competed against Abyss in a “Monster’s Ball Match”. Then won a special 10-man “Gauntlet for the Gold” to determine a replacement for Kevin Nash, then immediately wrestled Jeff Jarrett for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and won the title. The show received mixed reviews from wrestling critics, but I felt this show at the end of the day delivered and made the best of a bad situation when word got out that Kevin Nash was unable to compete at their biggest show of the year. This was the highlight of Rhino’s TNA career and showed the world that he was still a credible star in the wrestling industry, beyond his tenure in the original ECW.

This was a very tough decision to decide between this and Bound for Glory (2007) as the #1 choice. I know fans will have their opinions and think differently, which is perfectly okay and acceptable, as we all have our fair share of opinions. To sum it my choice for #1, I believe the inaugural Bound for Glory (2005) set the tone for the many great shows we would see over the years, including Bound for Glory (2007) and so on, so forth.

Having said that, wrestling fans, what would be your choice for the greatest Bound for Glory pay-per-view in TNA/Impact Wrestling company history? Let me know on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at the following links below. Until then, I will see you next time!

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrandonEwing_85

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MLW Fusion - Episode 05 - Double Jeopardy

Synopsis:

   MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

   Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, Sabu, Dusty Rhodes, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

   We kick things off with an opening intro video package highlighting the recent events between Shane “The Swerve” Strickland, Pentagon Jr. and Salina De La Renta. Tonight, we will have Pentagon Jr. vs Rey Fenix in a rematch from our first weekly episode of MLW Fusion Episode 01, as Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini welcome us to the broadcast. Tony announces they will be speaking to Shane Strickland for an update on his condition. The match between Rey Fenix and Pentagon Jr. will be for the #1 Contendership for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship. We go to ringside for our first match of the evening.

Koto Brazil vs Trey Miguel

   The bell rings as Koto Brazil sprawls around on the mat to psyche out Trey Miguel. He takes him down with a waist lock for the quick one count. Go behind into an Arm Drag by Miguel. This is reversed by Brazil into the side headlock. Shoulder tackle by Miguel. After a series of counters and reversals, quick roll up and a series of counter one count falls by both men as the crowd claps in approval. Low Dropkick, into the Throat Thrust and High-End Dropkick by Koto Brazil. Running European Uppercut into the corner by Koto. Miguel counters with the Running Hurricanrana. Miguel flips and catches Koto with the Headstand Headscissors Takedown. Koto on the apron, catches Miguel with the shoulder block. Pele Kick takes down Koto Brazil to the floor. Miguel dives outside the ring onto the floor with the Springboard Front Flip. Miguel throws Koto back inside the ring and covers him for the 2 count.

   Both men exchange blows. Knife Edge Chop by Trey Miguel. European Uppercut off the turnbuckle by Koto and snapmares him down for the near fall. Quick go behind counters into the Bicycle Kick by Trey Miguel. Running Clothesline (Miz style) by Koto Brazil, as he flips in from the apron and connects with a Slingshot Double Stomp Dropkick for the two count. A couple of Knife Edge Chops delivered by Koto Brazil. Koto catches and slams Miguel head first into the corner with the head scissors, then a German Suplex for the two count.

   Koto flips to the top rope and gets caught by Miguel, as Miguel catches him with a Back Leg Front Kick. Both men exchange punches. Koto catches him and drops him with the Running Slicebread and gets a two count. Uppercut in the corner by Koto.  Running Boot by Miguel in the corner, then a 6.1.9. variant by Miguel to knock him down. He jumps off the top rope and connects with the Double Knee Drop (Diving Meteora) for the cover and the pin fall.

   Next, we see highlights of the rivalry between Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix.

   MLW officials came by to visit Salina De La Renta in Puerto Rico. She discusses her connections, from television to music to all arts of entertainment. She talks about being well connected to Mexico, to Chili, to Puerto Rico and so on with the very best business woman in the business. She shoves the MLW correspondent into her pool. Next, we cut back to a live feed where Salina announces she will be representing both brothers, Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix.

   Next, we have highlights between Joey Janella and Jimmy Havoc from last week, along with the beatdown by Team Filthy on Jimmy Havoc. Simon Gotch and “Filthy” Tom Lawlor discuss the attack. Tom says he has no beef with him and that if he (Havoc) wants some to come get some. He likes easy paydays and dares Jimmy Havoc to bring it on.

   Tag Team Elimination Match is up next. Col. Robert Parker calls his Dirty Blondes the best tag team in all of professional wrestling and that we are all going to learn that now. Team T.B.D. cut a promo saying they will show the world tonight why “they” are the best tag team in the world.

“Tag Team Elimination Match” - The Dirty Blondes (Leo and Mike Patrick w/ Col. Robert Parker) vs Team T.B.D. (Jimmy Yuta and Jason Cade)

   We kick things off with Jimmy Yuta and Leo. Leo backs Yuta into the corner, as Yuta overhand chops Leo. They exchange slaps to the face, as Yuta takes him down with an Arm Drag, then a drop toehold into a lower dropkick for a one count. Then tags in Jason Cade. Cade off the turnbuckle with the axe handle across the arm. Then tags back in to Yuta. Yuta works over the arm. Leo tags out. Jimmy Yuta applies the Octopus Stretch into as Sunset Flip for a two count.

   Tag in to Yuta. Double Drop toehold into the Rear Chinlock/Running Dropkick combination. Leo gets dumped to the outside, along with Mike Patrick. Double Suicide Dive to the floor on the Dirty Blondes. Jason Cade hits a Running Reverse Moonsault to the floor on the Dirty Blondes! Back inside the ring, Mike Patrick reverses the Crossbody Block into a pin fall and the elimination.

Jimmy Yuta has been eliminated!

   Two on one situation for Jason Cade. Jason Cade starts swinging at both Dirty Blondes. Tag in to Leo from Mike Patrick. Leo with the hard scoop slam and the cover for a two count. Tag in to Mike Patrick. Punch combination followed by a strut on Jason Cade. Cade gets slammed into the turnbuckle, Ric Flair style, as he lands on his head/neck in the ring. Tag back in to Leo. Rear Reverse Chinlock applied to Jason Cade. Oklahoma Roll by Leo for the near fall. Tag back in to Mike Patrick. Cade pushes the Dirty Blondes into each other. Cade starts fighting back with Front Enziguiri Kick, then a series of Forearm Shots. He connects with a Tornado DDT on Leo, but the numbers game gets the better of Jason Cade. Mike Patrick attempts the Superplex gets countered into the Tree of Woe into the Guillotine Legdrop followed up by the Black Magic (Backslide DDT), all in one sequence, for the pin fall.

Mike Patrick has been eliminated!

   One-on-One between Leo and Jason Cade. Leo punches away at Jason Cade and drives the elbow down across the face for a two count. Leo applies a side headlock as the fans cheer for Cade. Jason Cade counters with a jawbreaker, then bounces off the ropes and hits the Hurricanrana, then a Superkick, and attempts the Black Magic but to no avail. Cade smacks Leo in the face with the high knee. Col. Robert Parker trips up Jason Cade, as Jimmy Yuta gets involved. Mike Patrick sneaks into the ring, as both Leo and Patrick hit a Double Team Alabama Slam on Jason Cade. Leo goes for the cover and gets the pinfall victory for The Dirty Blondes.

   After the match, Jason Cade and Jimmy Yuta get into a little spat, as Cade shoves Yuta away from him as we cut to a commercial break. Cade and Yuta continue to argue backstage. Yuta says it’s okay for tag partners to disagree and they will be back in sync in time for the upcoming tag team tournament.

   We see a “Tale of the Tape” for Rey Fenix and Pentagon Jr. Then we go backstage to Shane Strickland for an interview. Strickland says even with the lack of depth perception it doesn’t amount to the heart and confidence he has as the MLW World Heavyweight Champion. He says Pentagon Jr. is intimidated by “The Swerve”, he calls BS on Pentagon Jr. and that he is scared to death of him. He asks what else is he going to take away from him? His legs? Whack him off, there yours! His arms? You don’t even have to decapitate him. Strickland says he will not take this championship away. Strickland asks the fans who’s house? This is Swerve’s house!

   We go down to ringside for our main event of the evening.

“#1 Contender’s Match for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship” – Pentagon Jr. (w/ Salina De La Renta) vs Rey Fenix

   Fenix dodges the dropkick. Both men exchanges blows, before Pentagon gets in the overhand chop as both men start exchanging chops back and forth. Fenix gets the upper hand. Pentagon pops Fenix with the Super Kick, as Fenix hits the Spin Kick on Pentagon Jr. Pentagon sends Fenix up in the air as Fenix catches him with a Hurricanrana off the Powerbomb attempt. Pentagon Jr. rolls outside and gets caught with a Swan Dive Splash from the top rope to the floor. Both men enter the ring. Fenix hits the double stomp to the back then goes for the cover for a two count. Fans start chanting “Lucha!”. Pentagon Jr. hits a Front Missile Dropkick to Fenix as Fenix attempts a Springboard Elbow. Spinning Back Kick by Pentagon Jr to the legs of Fenix. Fenix is shoved to the floor. Pentagon Jr. follows him and chops Fenix hard across the chest area.

   Both men exchange overhand chops on the floor. Pentagon Jr. slams Fenix into the steel pole near the crowd. Pentagon Jr. taunts the crowd as he kicks Fenix across the lower legs. Both men enter the ring. Pentagon Jr. positions Fenix in the corner. Big overhand chop across the chest to Fenix. Crowd chants “Uno Mas!” as Pentagon Jr. goes for the chop, but Fenix counters and irish whips Pentagon Jr off the ropes. Pentagon Jr. catches Fenix with the Slingblade and gets a near fall.

   Pentagon Jr. attempts to suplex Fenix back inside the ring from the apron. This is countered into a Spin Kick to the head. Fenix jumps in, springboards and catches Pentagon Jr. with the Cutter for the near fall. Fenix runs and Spin Kicks Pentagon Jr. from the middle rope. He attempts a Running Hurricanrana but its countered in a Powerbomb Backbreaker for a two count.

   Pentagon Jr. goes for a Uranage Slam but is countered into a roll up by Fenix for a two count. Pentagon Jr. hits the dropkick as Fenix hits the Spinning Roundhouse Kick to the face. Both men fall to the mat. Both men go out to the apron. Pentagon Jr. connects with a kick to the feet and Fenix hits a kick to the head of Pentagon Jr. Both men exchanging kicks, as Fenix goes back inside the ring with Pentagon Jr. remaining on the apron. Fenix springboards and stomps Pentagon Jr. on the arm, sending both men to the floor. Both men reenter the ring. Fenix climbs to the top turnbuckle. High Angle Senton Bomb by Fenix, he goes for the cover and a two count. Both men exit the ring. With Pentagon Jr. resting on the apron, Fenix runs and catches Pentagon Jr with a Spinning Jump Kick to the head. Both men are straddled on the ring apron. Fenix has a German Suplex blocked by Pentagon Jr. Pentagon Jr. hits a deadly Pentagon Driver (Package Piledriver) on Fenix on the apron, sending him to the floor!

   Pentagon Jr. rolls Fenix back inside, goes for the cover and gets a near fall. Pentagon Jr. snaps the arm back, as he attempts to break the arm of his brother. Pentagon Jr. goes for the Fear Factor (Pumphandle Driver) for only a two count. Pentagon Jr. drives Fenix down once more with the Pentagon Driver, this time inside the squared circle, goes for the cover and gets the pin fall victory.

   We will see Shane “The Swerve” Strickland vs Pentagon Jr. for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship NEXT WEEK on MLW Fusion!

Match Grading:

1.       Koto Brazil vs Trey Miguel (2 Stars)

2.       The Dirty Blondes vs Team T.B.D. (2 ½ Stars)

3.       Pentagon Jr. vs Rey Fenix (3 Stars)

For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

4.       MLW on YouTube: Click Here

5.       MLW on Twitter: Click Here

6.       MLW on Facebook: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

Sunday Night ShowDown! - Episode 02 - Sting vs Big Van Vader

Welcome to the second edition of “Sunday Night Showdown!”. This will be a weekly series that will highlight a selected match from any wrestling federation, past or present, to review and dissect for you great wrestling fans across the globe. These episodes will be uploaded every Sunday night on Tumblr, then shared via my personal Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

This week’s edition of Sunday Night ShowDown features one of the most historic rivalries in all of World Championship Wrestling (WCW). “The Franchise” of WCW, the man who has gone by many nicknames, looks, and personas over the years. The Man Called “Sting” in the early 1990’s went head-to-head with a 450 pound “Mastodon” from the cold Rocky Mountains: “Big Van Vader”. Today, we will highlight one of their greatest match-ups of all-time. The event was Starrcade 1992: Featuring Battle Bowl. Sting and Big Van Vader were participating in a special “King of Cable” tournament over the past several weeks on WCW Saturday Night. As fate would have it, both men would reach the finals and compete against each to determine who would walk away victorious with the “King of Cable” trophy.

BACKGROUND

Sting and Big Van Vader began their rivalry in April 1992. Sting and “Ravishing” Rick Rude were cooling down, as their rivalry between Sting, Rude and The Dangerous Alliance was coming to a close. During a WCW World Heavyweight Championship Match, Sting would defend against Big Van Vader. Sting won the battle, but lost the war. During the course of the match, Vader would deliver a Big Splash, cracking and breaking the ribs of Sting, in addition to a ruptured spleen injury. This one move would cause the “Stinger” to be out of action for the next couple of months.

Sting recovered in time for their rematch which was set for July 12 1992 at “The Great American Bash” for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. Sting gave it his all, but Vader came ready and prepared to take down the champion. Big Van Vader would defeat Sting with the Power Bomb to become the new WCW World Heavyweight Champion.

During this time, Vader would continue his on/off reign as WCW World Champion, while Sting would move on to feud with Cactus Jack and Jake “The Snake” Roberts over the next few months. When the “King of Cable” Tournament was announced by WCW, it was highly likely that Sting and Big Van Vader would cross paths one more time. Sting would defeat Flyin’ Brian Pillman and “Ravishing” Rick Rude to reach the finals, while Big Van Vader defeated Tony Atlas and “The Natural” Dustin Rhodes.

The table was set now for Starrcade 1992, as both men were ready to do battle in one of the most breathtaking, hard-hitting battles in WCW history.

CLICK HERE - Sting vs Big Van Vader (Starrcade 1992)

We have Jim Ross and Jesse “The Body” Ventura providing commentary. Starrcade 1992 took place at the historic “Omni” in Atlanta, Georgia.  We kick off this classic encounter with the “Stinger” delivering a series of right hands to Big Van Vader, as the big man no sells the punches and screams: “No Pain!”. Vader takes control of the match and scoop slams Sting hard to the mat, not once but twice. Vader goes on the offensive and drops Sting across the top rope with not one but two Military Press Drops, throat first. Vader shows off his raw power as Sting exits the ring to recuperate and regroup.

Sting enters the ring and then gets irish whipped off the ropes. Sting counters and hits a Rolling Spin Kick, almost in a somersault like variation, on Vader to stun the big man. Sting then hits Big Van Vader with a huge Release German Suplex, followed up by a big clothesline to send Vader out to the arena floor. He hit Vader so hard that it ripped the head gear off Vader’s face!

With Vader outside the ring, Sting dives over the top rope and connects with a Cross Body Block. Sting pounds his chest and howls to the crowd, as he and Vader shortly thereafter reenter the ring. Vader regains the advantage and hits a series of rights and lefts to the head and body of Sting, knocking the face paint off Sting’s face. Sting attempts to get the upper hand, as he dodges a Corner Splash from Vader, then goes for a Stinger Splash but misses, as Vader hits Sting with a Big Boot to the face.

Sting would battle back and hit a huge DDT on Vader. He then physically picks Vader up and sets him up on the top turnbuckle, climbs the ropes and attempts a Superplex but instead hits a Top Rope DDT variation, then goes for the cover for a near fall.

Sting applies the Scorpion Deathlock but Vader is able to power out of the submission hold. Both men exit the ring. Sting misses another Stinger Splash, this time he hits the steel railing very hard. Vader and Sting eventually make their way back inside the ring, as Vader hits a Short-Arm Clothesline. From here, Vader connects with a Big Body Splash in the corner, then a hard clothesline to Sting, goes for the cover and gets a two count.

Vader continues to pummel away at Sting with a series of right hands, then a Belly-to-Back Suplex. Vader then hits a Big Splash off the ropes for only a two count. Vader wears down Sting even further as he applies a Reverse Chinlock. After several minutes have gone by, Sting and Vader emerge to their feet from the rest hold. Vader goes in for a clothesline, but Sting counters into a backslide pin attempt for a two count.

Sting bounces off the ropes and hits a Sunset Flip Pin, but he cannot bring Vader down. Vader attempts a Seated Splash but Sting rolls out of the way to prevent from being squashed. Vader goes in for a side headlock, but Sting reverses this into a Belly-to-Back Suplex. Big Van Vader goes in for a series of rights and lefts to the head of Sting. Sting covers up and tells Vader to keep the punches coming, as he wants to wear Vader down to the point in which Vader basically punches himself out and becomes winded (see Ali vs Forearm, “Rope-A-Dope”).

Vader picks up Sting to the top rope for a Superplex attempt, but Sting counters and punches Vader sending him off the top rope to the mat. Sting falls to the mat as well from pure exhaustion. Both men slowly get back up to their feet, as Vader goes in for another series of punches to the Stinger. Sting continues to beg Vader to come after him with everything he’s got. As Vader starts to wear down, his punches get weaker and weaker. Sting takes advantage and catches Vader with a couple of Discus Punches, knocking the 450 pound monster to the mat.

Sting hits a Samoan Drop on Vader, then follows up with a Diving Body Splash off the top rope for a near fall. Vader’s manager, the legendary Harley Race, gets involved and distracts Sting. Vader takes advantage of the distraction and attacks Sting from behind. Vader capitalizes and connects with a Chokeslam, then a Diving Body Splash from the top turnbuckle.

Big Van Vader goes in one more time for the Diving Body Splash. As Vader attempts the splash, Sting rises to his feet and catches Vader coming off the ropes and powerslams him down to the mat, covering Vader for the pin fall and the victory!

What did you think of the match? Let me know in the comments below or submit your thoughts on my Twitter or Facebook page at the links below. Thank you for reading and for watching the match. I will see you all next week for “Sunday Night ShowDown!”. Also, don’t forget to like and follow my pages for access to my latest writings and ongoing updates!

Facebook: Click Here

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[brandonewing1985-blog]

MLW Fusion - Episode 04 - Filthy Fighting

Synopsis:

MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, Sabu, Dusty Rhodes, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

We have an opening promo featuring Jimmy Havoc, showing highlights of both men as we see a repeat of the promo shot from last week featuring Jimmy Havoc discussing their feud (see my Episode 03 review for more details).

Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini welcome us to the broadcast. They talk about MVP and Sami Callihan, along with Team Filthy and ACH. Shane Strickland arrives to the arena, as we go to the ring for our first contest.

“Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs ACH

The match we thought we were going to see last week is now taking place this week, as Tom Lawlor has been cleared to wrestle from his “injury”. ACH cuts a pre-match promo saying that Team Filthy proved him wrong by pushing the nicest guy in MLW off the edge. He thought they were built up on integrity and had big balls but all he could see was mixed martial asshats.

Tom Lawlor tackles ACH down into the corner, then cheap shots ACH, snapmares and kicks him in the back of head. Lawlor meditates on the ground and begs ACH to take his free shot, which he does so. ACH delivers the kick, hurts himself as Lawlor locks on the body scissors submission and ACH breaks the hold. Shoulder block by ACH, as both men get up to their feet. Lawlor drops back to the ring and dares ACH to attack. Lawlor applies a headlock but gets countered into a rollup for a near fall. La Magistral Cradle by ACH for another two count and then a standing dropkick taking Lawlor out to the floor.

Lawlor with a series of mount punches on the ground with ACH, then applies the cross armbar as ACH breaks up the hold. Lawlor applies a modified grounded cobra clutch like submission hold, as ACH fights out of it and hip tosses Lawlor. Lawlor hits ACH with a well-placed kick to the sternum. Lawlor hits the Single Underhook Suplex into the Triangle Choke, then into a modified Rings of Saturn submission hold.

ACH tries to fight out of it, but to no avail, as Lawlor keeps ACH grounded before picking him up and dropping him with a Brainbuster for a two count. Reverse Armlock, as Lawlor continues to work over the arm and body of ACH. Belly-to-Back Suplex attempt as ACH rolls out of it and both men perform a series of flips and counters. Low dropkick by ACH, as he gets back body dropped to the apron. Using the ropes for leverage he spin kicks Lawlor, jumps in and nails the Springboard Cutter for a two count.

Crowd is seemingly split between both men. Knife Edge Chop by ACH in the corner. Running Forearm to Tom Lawlor. Lawlor retaliates and catches the Running Knee Lift to the face, then a T-Bone Suplex. ACH battles back, as he hits Lawlor with the Sit-Out Backbreaker, then a German Suplex for a two count. Electric Chair Drop is countered into a Low Roundhouse Kick to the legs of ACH by Lawlor. Lawlor attempts a Series of German Suplex’s, he hits one as ACH counters the second German Suplex, but Lawlor applies a Sleeper hold to ground ACH.

ACH fights out and counters out of it for a cover and a near fall. Lawlor attempts the German Suplex pin, ACH counters and hits a Standing Shooting Star Press for the two count. Team Filthy get involved to distract ACH. Tom Lawlor knocks ACH out with the “bad arm” (cast), then chokes ACH out, as Tom Lawlor wins by knockout/submission.

We go to the backstage area, as we see Shane “The Swerve” Strickland confront Salina De La Renta over what had took place last week. Pentagon Jr. approaches Strickland and sprays mist into the eyes, blinding Strickland, he rolls around in pain.

We return back to live action, as MLW officials and emergency officials tend to Shane Strickland to wash out his eyes. We head back to ringside for our next contest.

Maxwell Jacob Friedman vs Fred Yehi

Fan breaks out into chants of “Yehi!” as the match begins. Headscissors Takedown for a quick pin attempt. Then a Russian Leg Sweep as Friedman quickly exits the ring. Shoulder tackle by Friedman, as he handsprings over Yehi and mocks him. Yehi stomps on the hand of Friedman, then tries it again as Friedman rolls out. Knife Edge Chop by Yehi, as Friedman suckers him into a kick to the midsection. Yehi chargers and drops him with a series of Running Shoulder Tackles as he favors the left shoulder. Back Elbow to Friedman as he gest tossed into the turnbuckle then a Release German Suplex for the near fall.

Freidman delivers a Single Arm Kneebreaker to the bad arm/shoulder of Yehi, as Freidman mocks the crowd. He rakes the eyes as the referee breaks it up. He drops the knee on the hand of Yehi, then applies the standing armbar, straddling his body over Yehi for added pressure. Yehi fights out of the hold and hits the Knife Edge Chop. He goes to the well one too many times, as Friedman catches Yehi and slams him down for a quick two count, then continues to go after the bad arm as he drives the knee into Yehi. Reverse Fujiwara Armbar submission applied to Yehi. Crowd tries to get behind Fred Yehi for encouragement, as he headbutts and overhand chops his way out of the submission hold. A series of Knife Edge Chops, then Overhead Chops and a Spinning Back Fist into a Dropkick to send Friedman down. Yehi hits a series of rapid-fire knee lifts to the midsection, then proceeds to kick him in the face from the ground up (bicycle kick style), then a well-timed Dragon Suplex for a two count.

Freidman begs for mercy as Yehi continues to stomp away at Friedman in the corner. Friedman pulls the referee in the way to stop Yehi. He shoves the referee out of the way, pokes the eye of Fred Yehi, as Friedman jumps off the rope and hits a Diving Knee Lift to the head followed up with a pin attempt and a victory for Maxwell Jacob Friedman.

After the match, Freidman is interviewed as he takes a seat from one of the fans. He says that most fans can’t afford internet and reintroduces himself as Maxwell Jacob Friedman. Freidman says the fans must feel bad for Fred Yehi, as he does too, because without a winner’s purse he can’t for his next three trips to Golden Corral with his family. The crowd boos him cause they’re jealous, but Freidman can’t judge because he’s jealous of them and don’t know how easy it is for them to not be like him. To go home to a picture perfect ten girlfriend and deal with a subpar limo driver, a cross he’s willing to bare for each and every one of the fans. His name is Maxwell Jacob Friedman and he’s better than you.

Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini show highlights from last week’s encounter between Sami Callihan and MVP, when an unknown assailant attacked MVP to cost MVP the match.

Sami Callihan is interviewed. He refuses to talk until he’s ready and whenever he wants to do so. He says he will create an army of likeminded individuals, as the mystery man appears at his side. Callihan states they will not only take over wrestling but everything.

We have a recap of what transpired earlier between Shane Strickland, Pentagon Jr. and Salina De La Renta earlier on. Still no update on the status of Shane Strickland at this time. Tony Schiavone announces a huge rematch for the main event next week, between Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix.

(No DQ Match) - “The Bad Boy” Joey Janela (with Aria Blake) vs Jimmy Havoc

The match begins as both men kick each other in the midsection, with Janela getting the upperhand and kicking Havoc out to the floor. He follows up with a Suicide Dive to the outside on Havoc. Havoc is thrown into the ring by Janela, but Havoc charges back with a Baseball Slide Dropkick to Janela to the capacity crowd. Joey Janela recovers and enters the ring. He charges back at Jimmy Havoc, who hits him with the steel chair from the outside of the ring. Both men are now outside the ring as Janela suplex’s Havoc on the chair.

He rolls Havoc back inside the ring and gets a cover for a two count. Janela hits the Side Kick to the head, then an overhead chop with a series of blows to the head. Knife Edge Chop by both men back and forth. Forearm shots delivered to both men as well, as Jimmy Havoc drops to the ring mat from fatigue. Janela climbs to the top rope and misses the Moonsault. Half Nelson German Suplex followed up by a Michinoku Driver by Havoc for the two count.

Jimmy Havoc exits the ring and pulls out a DOOR of all things from under the ring, plus some steel chairs as they’re brought into the ring. The door is positioned in the corner, as Havoc sets up the chair in the center of the ring. Janela runs and jumps off the chair to connect with a Flying Forearm Smash. Janella wraps the head around Jimmy Havoc, then bulldogs Havoc onto the other chair with the chair wrapped around his head for the two count.

Janela sets up the chair, as Havoc hits a Discus Forearm, then a Pumphandle Slam on the chair for the for the two count by Jimmy Havoc. Jimmy Havoc drives the steel chair across the back of Joey Janela. Then rams the chair repeatedly into the midsection of Janela. Forearm shot by Havoc. Janela falls onto the chair as Havoc hits a running dropkick to the Janela, then a suplex by Janela on Havoc with the chair placed over the body. He hits a Swanton Bomb on Havoc for the two count, as Janela lands on the chair and Havoc.

Janela exits the ring and brings in more chairs, then a table. Janela nails Havoc with the steel chair, but Havoc no sells, grabs a chair and blasts Janela in the face with the chair. Havoc attempts the DVD but Janela hits the Piledriver on the chairs for a two count. Crowd gets behind Jimmy Havoc. Joey Janela sets up the table. Knife Edge Chops to Havoc, as Havoc is placed on the table. Janela climbs to the top rope. He misses the Seated Senton, then in one solid succession of moves, Jimmy Havoc pops up and dropkicks Joey Janela into the door as the door breaks in half. He then scoops up Joey Janela over his head and drops him with a Death Valley Driver on several chairs, then connects with the Acid Rainmaker for the victory. The crowd applauds in approval as we see the carnage laid out all over the ring.

Backstage, as Jimmy Havoc makes his way out of the arena. He is attacked and jumped by Team Filthy in the parking lot. Jimmy Havoc is laid out on the grass as MLW Fusion comes to a close for this week.  

Match Grading:

1.       “Filthy” Tom Lawlor vs ACH (3 Stars)

2.       Fred Yehi vs Maxwell Jacob Friedman (2 ½ Stars)

3.       Jimmy Havoc vs Joey Janela (3 ½ Stars)

For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

4.       MLW on YouTube: Click Here

5.       MLW on Twitter: Click Here

6.       MLW on Facebook: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

MLW Fusion - Episode 03 - Rise of the Worldwide Desperado

Synopsis:

MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, Sabu, Dusty Rhodes, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

We kick things off with Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini. We see some playback footage of Jimmy Havoc and Joey Janella. He calls him out to the ring for a fight. Joey Janella comes out as both men brawl all over ringside. Joey Janella hits a series of chops, as both men exchange blows outside the ring and all over the crowd. Suddenly, Low Ki makes an appearance after being suspended after taking down an MLW official and having a confrontation with MVP. Low Ki gets on the microphone and airs his grievances with the crowd. Crowd chants “Low Ki sucks!”. He says MLW has a problem with authority and that “Black Friday” always collects the debts. MVP makes an appearance. Suddenly, Sami Callihan makes an appearance and attacks MVP, choking him out with a black baseball bat.

Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini recap the events of what just took place, questioning if MVP will be at 100% for his match later tonight. We go down to ringside for our first match.

“Filthy” Tom Lawlor makes an announcement. He said that unfortunately due a previously sustained injury (a broken left arm) he is unable to wrestle. He apologizes to the crowd and not ACH. Tom Lawlor tells the audience Simon Gotch will take his place tonight, as ACH makes his way down to ringside.

ACH vs Simon Gotch

Both men show a unique level of respect with a handshake/fist bump. Collar elbow tie-up by both wrestlers. Simon continues to mock ACH with a “Gotch Fist Bump”. ACH takes down Gotch, as Gotch counters into a half crab submission. Gotch picks him out of the hold in a reversal attempt, ACH counters and reverses into the armbar. ACH continues to work over the arm. Gotch counters with the arm drag. ACH takes him down with a couple of Arm Drags of his own with the cartwheel in between. Simon Gotch applies a Cross Armbar submission but ACH gets his foot on the rope to break the hold.

Gotch takes down ACH with a Leg Headscissors. The crowd gets behind ACH. ACH breaks out of the hold as Gotch proceeds to kick away at ACH. Simon Gotch applies an armbar and chin lock combination. ACH fights out and hits a series of Knife Edge Chops. Gotch dares him to keep chopping him, as he catches ACH out of nowhere with a Jumping Enziguiri.

Simon Gotch hits the European Uppercut, then a knee lift into the corner on ACH. He nails ACH with the Double Underhook Suplex for the near fall. Gotch proceeds to stomp away at ACH in the corner, as Tom Lawlor gets involved. Gotch goes in for the cover and gets only a two count. Both men exchange right hands and blows. Baseball slide leg trip into the Double Stomp and Low Dropkick sequence by ACH. Sunset Flip into the roll through by Gotch for the cover and near fall. ACH counters with the victory roll-up for the cover and the pin.

After the match, Team Filthy hits the ring and attacks ACH. Team Filthy lays him out and leave the ring in celebration. Tom Lawlor makes a mockery of the “Go Go ACH!” combo. Gotch adds the only place he’s going is the I.C.U. Lawlor says just like Simon Gotch is better than ACH, Tom Lawlor is five million times better than ACH.

Tony Schiavone puts over a Top 10 MLW Wrestler package, including Warring Hughes, Joey Janella, Jeff Cobb, Rey Fenix, Sami Callihan, Filthy Tom Lawlor, Low Ki, MVP, Jimmy Havoc and Pentagon Jr. along with the MLW World Heavyweight Champion Shane “The Swerve” Strickland.

Shane Strickland cuts a promo about leaving a legacy that will be talked about for generations to come. From UK to Mexico to the United States. He talks about working hard for his spot and not being there for his kids to make it where he is at right now.

Next, we have a promo with Maxwell Jay Friedman cutting a promo on a beautiful tennis court. Staying ahead of the game financially and athletically. Questioning if he’s a bad person because he has a trust fund and went to dark myth, cause his father and father’s father went to dark myth. Imagine the rolls being reversed, you would exactly be like him cause in reality, no one is like him.

Vandal Ortagun vs Mike Parrow

“The One Demolition” is put over highly by Tony Schiavone. Match begins with Ortagun attempting a high cross body but gets captured by Parrow into the Fall Away Slam into the turnbuckle. He goes for the cover and gets a near fall. Knife Edge Chop to Ortagun, then a Military Press Slam. Parrow hits a Seated Senton Splash for a two count. Parrow hits the chop block, then the thrust kick to the side of the head. Col. Robert Parker appears at ringside, watching the action from afar. Sit-Out Powerbomb connects by Mike Parrow to get the win over Vandal Ortagun. Col. Robert Parker looks on in amazement. Col. Robert Parker extends his hand out of Mike Parrow, as Parrow shakes his hand and we see Mike Parrow quite possibly joining Col. Robert Parker’s “Stud Stable”.

Salina De La Renta congratulates Shane Strickland sarcastically on his big win. She says for Strickland not to get too used to having the World Title around his waist.

Jimmy Havoc cuts a promo on Joey Janella. He says its fun working for him as it brings out he best in each other. He calls himself the king and that when you get into the ring, you’re not going to just see Havoc but you’re going to see blood… and he is going to lick the blood off him and enjoy it.

Andrea from MLW attempts to get a word from Team Filthy. She asks if his arm is okay, while Lawlor accusing her of questioning his legit injury as she is kicked out of their locker room.

Sami Callihan questions the ranking system in MLW. He likes to climb the ranking system and become the #1 guy to come the World heavyweight Champion. No matter what he does, he loves pissing people off and becoming that number one guy. Having the capability of preaching his messages. He talks about MVP climbing the ranking system for his son to see how great his father is, etc. He says that won’t happen and that MVP will have to go back to his son as a failure. To tell his son that his father is “Callihan’s bitch!”. He doesn’t care anymore and is the most hated man in professional wrestling. He came to MLW for one reason – to become the MLW World Heavyweight Champion so people have to listen. Thumbs up. Thumbs down!

MVP vs Sami Callihan

MVP wastes no time in charging down to ringside and takes down Callihan with a series of chops and right hands, taking down Callihan with a furious clothesline as Callihan exits the ring. Both men continue to fight outside the ring. Callihan ducks the Knife Edge Chop and slams his hand into the steel ring post. Callihan hits a Knife Edge Chop of his own, as both men fight into the crowd. MVP is placed sitting upwards on one of the steel chairs. He proceeds to chop away at MVP on one of the chairs, then mocks the crowd. Callihan connects with a Running Back Elbow as MVP lays stunned on the chair. Callihan goes for another one but MVP counters in to a drop toe hold on the chair as both men then reenter the ring temporarily.

They exit the ring, as Callihan rakes the eyes of MVP and tosses him into the steel before rolling back into the ring. With both men inside the ring, Callihan continues to gouge the eyes and nose of MVP. Callihan attempts the Vertical Suplex but gets countered into a Vertical Suplex by MVP. Callihan takes down MVP with the right hand, sending MVP to the floor. Callihan jumps off the apron and gets caught by MVP, as he slams him down hard on the apron, Uranage Slam style.

Callihan is looking for something under the ring, as MVP is on the opposite side of the ring trying to get back inside the ring and clear the cobwebs. Both enter the ring and exchange right hands. Giving each other everything they have, Big Boot to the face of both men with neither one wanting to give in, as MVP counters and hits the belly to belly supple. MVP hits the Flying Forearm followed by a Running Bi Boot into a Belly to Belly from the corner turnbuckle. MVP hits the double throat thrust then a knee lift on Callihan. MVP hits the Ballin’ Elbow Drop to Callihan, then the Fisherman Suplex Pin for a two count.

               MVP sets Callihan up on the top rope. Both men exchange various punches and chops, as Callihan counters and attempts a Power Bomb from the corner. Callihan fights out, thrust kicks MVP and drops him with a Samoan Driver out of the corner for the near fall. Sami Callihan grabs the baseball bat and swings it at MVP. MVP catches and steals the bat away. The referee gets taken out as MVP hits the Playmaker on Callihan. A mystery man runs out and attacks MVP, sending him crashing down a Rock Bottom like maneuver. Sami Callihan drapes the arm over MVP as MVP kicks out at two.

The mystery man exits the ring and watches the action from ringside. Callihan attempts the big boot as MVP drops him with a Spinning Cutter. The mystery man gets involved, distracts MVP, Callihan gets in the low blow and hits the Cradle Killer for the cover and the pin fall victory.

After the match, Callihan grabs the bat as both men celebrate. The mystery man appears to be a bodyguard of some sort for Sami Callihan. The mysterious big man carries Callihan to the backstage area. Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini cover what happened to Jimmy Havoc and Joey Janella earlier on. Next week, we will see Jimmy Havoc vs Joey Janella next week. Also, Filthy Tom Lawlor will face ACH one-on-one.

Shane Strickland cuts a promo on Pentagon Jr. He says this championship is going nowhere. Strickland walks into his locker room and sees a ritual shrine placed by Pentagon Jr. Strickland looks on in shock and disbelief, ripping a picture of himself off the mirror to reveal a skull symbolizing “death” as MLW Fusion goes off the air.

Match Grading:

1.       Simon Gotch vs ACH (2 Stars)

2.       Mike Parrow vs Vandal Ortagun (1 ½ Stars)

3.       Sami Callihan vs MVP (2 ½ Stars)

For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

4.       MLW on YouTube: Click Here

5.       MLW on Twitter: Click Here

6.       MLW on Facebook: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

MLW Fusion - Episode 02 - Danger in Swerve City

Synopsis:

   MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

   Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, Sabu, Dusty Rhodes, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

   We see a promo video package covering the rivalry between Jimmy Havoc and Shane “The Swerve” Strickland, as Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini welcome us to this week’s show. They promote the match between Shane Strickland and Jimmy Havoc. We go to the ring for our opening contest.

   Col. Robert Parker introduces “The Dirty Blondes”, Mike Patrick and Leo Brien.

The Dirty Blondes (w/ Col. Robert Parker) vs Team T.B.D. (Jimmy Yuta and Jason Cade).

   This is a grudge match after Jason Cade was hit by a cowboy boot by Leo Brien in a previous encounter, as the bell rings to start the match. Jason Cade nails Leo Brien with a Running Dropkick, a Flying Forearm Smash, then a flurry of left and right punches. Cade and Yuta connect with a Double Team Maneuver, as they Springboard Body Block into Leo Brien, as Jimmy Yuta is tagged in. Low Dropkick by Jimmy Yuta. Leo Brien tags in Mike Patrick. Arm Drag Takedown by Yuta into the Armbar.

   Spinning Arm Hold on Mike Patrick. Jimmy Yuta tags out. Double Team Back Flip into a Body Splash by Yuta and Cade for the near fall. Handspring Elbow caught by Mike Patrick, as a blind tag is made to Leo Brien. Brien starts hitting Cade with a series of forearm shots. Mike Patrick snap mares Jason Cade over for a one count. Brien drives Cade into the knee of Patrick and tags in. Patrick continues driving the knee into Cade, cutting the ring off from Cade to keep him away from Jimmy Yuta.

   Double Team Elbow followed by a series of elbow drops by The Dirty Blondes for a two count. Leo Brien comes in and jabs the thumb into the eye of Jason Cade, then scoops him up and slams him down hard. Leo Brien follows up with a knee drop for a one count. Brien applies a rear chin lock as the crowd gets behind Jason Cade. Cade fights back and connects with a Bicycle Kick, then a Jumping Neckbreaker. Jason Cade makes the hot tag to Jimmy Yuta. Yuta flies in and starts chopping away at Patrick. Yuta hits an Enziguri followed up by a Diving Crossbody for the two count. Leo Brien breaks it up as all four men are in the ring exchanging blows, but Team T.B.D. hits the double dropkick to send The Dirty Blondes outside the ring momentarily. Yuta and Patrick get back inside the ring. As Yuta goes to bounce off the ropes, Col. Robert Parker gets involved and trips up Jimmy Yuta. Mike Patrick drops the Big Elbow Drop and gets the pin fall victory for The Dirty Blondes.

   A quick vignette shows “The Swerve” Shane Strickland, along with MLW CEO Court Bauer promote the MLW Fusion tapings set for July 19th at the Melrose Ballroom in New York.

Ultimo Ninja vs Garza Jr (w/ Salina De La Renta).

   Both men get into an intense stare down, then shove each other. Both men flip and counter each other various times, as Garza Jr. takes him over with a Springboard Arm Drag takedown, then a Leg Sweep for a couple of quick one counts as the crowd approves. Crowd starts chanting “Lucha!”, as Ninja connects with a Handspring Elbow for a one count. Ninja connects with the overhand chop, then a running knee to the mid-section. Another hard-open hand slap to the chest of Garza Jr. Ninja irish whips Garza Jr and connects with a Spinning Wheel Kick for a two count.

   Garza Jr. fights back with a couple of running clotheslines. Garza Jr. rips off his t-shirt, distracts Ultimo Ninja and hits a Standing Superkick, followed up by a Double Underhook Piledriver for a near fall. Garza sets Ninja up on the turnbuckle. Garza then positions Ninja in the tree of woe, then runs and smashes Ninja in the face with the Running Knee Lift for a two count. Garza Jr is irish whipped outside the ring, as Ultimo Ninja follows suit and dives outside the ring onto Garza Jr.

   Both men enter the ring as Ultimo Dragon attempts a cover for a two count. Ninja hits the Spinning Back Kick to the ribs for another two count. Scoop Slam by Ultimo Ninja. Ninja connects with the Rolling Moonsault for a near fall. Garza Jr. hits a Front Missile Dropkick for the two count. Garza Jr. hits the Wheelbarrow Double Knee Gutbuster for the two count.

   Garza Jr. strikes with the Overhand Chop, then another one, followed up by a Running Monkey Flip as Ultimo Ninja rolls through, counters and nails a Spinning Kick to the face for the two count. Ninja dodges a running shoulder block into the ring post. Ninja jumps to the top rope and hits a Missile Dropkick for the near fall. Both men counter each other’s pin fall rollup attempt until Ultimo Ninja applies an Inverted Crossface submission. Garza Jr. applies the Rings of Saturn to Ultimo Ninja but is countered into a pin fall attempt as Ultimo Ninja kicks Garza Jr. in the face.

   Ultimo Ninja with the go behind waist lock as Garza Jr. charges to the ropes. Salina De La Renta gets involved and rips the mask off Ultimo Ninja, allowing for Garza Jr. to pin Ultimo Ninja for the three count.

   Another vignette rolls promoting the New York City show featuring Shane Strickland and Court Bauer. Tony Schiavone recaps the main event from last week between Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix.

   We have a promo featuring “Filthy” Tom Lawlor training in the gym, along with recaps of his past matches as he discusses people wanting to be like him in every way as a star in UFC and MLW, respectively.

   Col. Robert Lawler and The Dirty Blondes cut a promo talking trash on Jimmy Yuta. Parker discusses about jumpstarting the careers of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Sid Vicious, Harlem Heat and how he is going to make a lot of money for The Dirty Blondes, his new modern-day incarnation of the Stud Stable.

   MVP cuts a promo on Sami Callihan for their main event next week. How he will put it all on the line to climb up the ranks and keep his promise to his son to be the best role model he can be. MVP assures the audience that he will be a future MLW World Heavyweight Champion and that you can overcome any obstacle life throws at you, past and present.

   Pre-Match promo airs featuring “The Swerve” Shane Strickland and Jimmy Havoc as they discuss their match for tonight. Shane Strickland discusses how Jimmy Havoc broke his pride. Jimmy Havoc says he (Strickland) doesn’t know when to quit and is a man that he can relate to. Highlights of their past matches are shown. Strickland wants to come back stronger and more skilled than ever. Jimmy Havoc says he cannot be stopped. Strickland says he will defeat Jimmy Havoc and retain his MLW World Heavyweight Championship.

“MLW World Heavyweight Championship Match” – ©Shane “The Swerve” Strickland vs Jimmy Havoc.

   The crowd breaks out into 50/50 chants for both men as the bell rings. Strickland connects with a Running Boot, as Havoc counters with a Discus Elbow followed up by a Discus Lariat Clothesline for a two count. Strickland knocks Havoc down with the Knee Lift, then a Diving Double Foot Stomp from the top for a near fall. Strickland proceeds to stomp away at Havoc in the corner. Strickland applies an Inverted Armbar to Havoc, then into a Leg Scissors Armbar as Havoc screams out in pain. Havoc counters into a roll-up for a quick two count. Strickland gets back into control as he pops Havoc with the back elbow to the jaw area. Strickland climbs the turnbuckle but gets his legs knocked out from under him, as Havoc hits a modified Codebreaker for a two count. Havoc appears to have injured his knee but recovers rather quickly.

   Havoc stun guns Strickland across the top rope to the floor. Strickland rolls back inside and is met with a vicious forearm shot, knocking Strickland to the corner as he applies the foot to the throat. Strickland counters with a Roundhouse Kick, followed up with a 6.1.9 variation. Jimmy Havoc attempts a Sunset Flip but is countered into a Shining Wizard by Shane Strickland for a near fall.

   Shane Strickland catches Havoc with the Roll Through Cutter for the two count. Crowd chants for both men, as Strickland hits the Knife Edge Chop on Jimmy Havoc multiple times. Strickland snap mares Havoc over, then hits one more Knife Edge Chop for good measure. Havoc begs for more, as he tries to psyche him out. Havoc keeps asking for more as Strickland continues to chop him and vows to “finish him tonight”. Strickland goes for the Running Boot but is countered into a Canadian Destroyer by Havoc. Out of nowhere, Havoc hits a devastating Lariat Clothesline for a two count. Jimmy Havoc then goes for a modified Cobra Clutch with the body scissors. Strickland fights out of the submission, as he backs Havoc into the corner. Strickland accidently Roundhouse Kicks the referee, knocking him out. Strickland connects with the Acid Rainmaker to Jimmy Havoc for the pin, but no referee to make the count.

   The referee is still out, as Shane Strickland tries to revive him. Havoc gets up and connects with a Low Blow from behind and tries to roll-up Strickland with the handful of tights for a two count. Strickland counters a clothesline by Havoc into a Short-Arm Clothesline of his own. Jimmy Havoc is on the apron, as he’s kicked off the apron with his legs caught on the bottom rope, as Havoc dangles from the bottom rope with nowhere to go. Shane Strickland hits a Running Double Stomp off the apron to Havoc, then sends him back into the ring.

   Strickland climbs the top rope and hits the Swerve Stomp across the face of Jimmy Havoc for the pin fall and the victory. Shane Strickland retains the MLW World Heavyweight Championship. The crowd chants “Swerve!” as Shane Strickland celebrates his hard-fought win.

   Shane Strickland is interviewed saying this is his house and loves the reaction by the crowd. He had zero wins and two losses against Jimmy Havoc, until tonight. Tonight, mattered the most. He welcomes challenges and overcomes them because “Swerve” is confidence. He asks the crowd one more time “Who’s House?” as the crowd replies “Swerves!” as MLW Fusion goes off the air.

Match Grading:

1.       “The Dirty Blondes” (Mike Patrick & Leo Brien) vs “Team T.B.D.” (Jason Cade & Jimmy Yuta) (2 ½ Stars)

2.       Ultimo Ninja vs Garza Jr. (2 ½ Stars)

3.       “The Swerve” Shane Strickland vs Jimmy Havoc (3 ½ Stars)

For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

MLW on YouTube: Click Here

MLW on Twitter: Click Here

MLW on Facebook: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

Sunday Night ShowDown - The Great Muta vs Masahiro Chono

  Welcome to the first edition of “Sunday Night Showdown!”. This will be a weekly series that will highlight a selected match from any wrestling federation, past or present, to review and dissect for you great wrestling fans across the globe. These episodes will be uploaded every Sunday night on Tumblr, then shared via my personal Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

  I am very proud to present this first episode. If you have been a wrestling fan for well over the past twenty years and studied wrestling rivalries and feuds that extended beyond the realm of WWE, WCW and ECW, then you will recognize the topic for today. The first episode will cover a match that took place on January 4th, 1993. WCW and NJPW co-promoted a special event titled: “Tokyo Dome SuperShow”. One of the highlighted matches pitted the ongoing rivalry between two of the greatest Japanese wrestling legends of all-time. The Great Muta versus Masahiro Chono, and the match is for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship.

BACKGROUND

  The origins of this feud began back in 1990, when Muta and Chono were once respected friends and tag team partners. The Great Muta and Masahiro Chono began teaming up during this timeframe, in which Muta and Chono would capture the IWGP Tag Team Titles in April 1990 by defeating Shinya Hashimoto and Masa Saito. The two men would hold on to the titles for the next six months before dropping the belts to Hiroshi Hase and Kensuke Sasaki.

  Muta would make his return to WCW and wrestle for the promotion through most of 1990, before returning to NJPW in 1991. Muta and Chono would submit their place as the true next generation of wrestling stars for the decade to come. The two men, along with Shinya Hashimoto surpassed and succeeded the likes of Japanese wrestling legends, Antonio Inoki, Riki Choshu and Tatsumi Fujinami in the finals of the G1 Climax tournament on August 11, 1991.

  During a match between Muta and Chono, which exceeded well over thirty minutes in length, Masa Chono defeated The Great Muta in their first encounter. The two men, along with Hashimoto, celebrated the match together as a show of unity and respect to each other.

  Fast forward to late 1992, in between Muta’s run in WCW and NJPW respectively, Muta’s career highlights for 1992 included defeated Barry Windham, “Stunning” Steve Austin, but was defeated Masa Chono in the semifinals of the G1 Climax. Muta would defeat Riki Choshu for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship for the first time in his career. He would successfully defend his title against Sting, followed by an infamous match against Hiroshi Hase. The latter of which was best known for Muta’s “blade job”. As a result of the match, Hase defeated Muta with a “foreign object” to cut open Muta. However, Muta bladed too deep into his forehead and bled profusely. The cut was so deep, that to this day Muta still bares the scars of this encounter.

  This would all lead to The Great Muta and Masahiro Chono engaging in a respectful rivalry. The two men would meet at WCW Starrcade 1992, in which Chono would defeat Muta in a match for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Ironically, Muta would go on to win the 8-Man Over-The-Top-Rope Battle Royal to become the 1992 BattleBowl Winner.

  The result of the previous Muta and Chono encounter would lead into a rematch booked for January 4th, 1993 at the WCW/NJPW Tokyo SuperShow.

(CLICK HERE) - The Great Muta vs Masahiro Chono (1/4/1993)

  The NWA World Heavyweight Championship (a.k.a. “The Big Gold Belt”) was at stake. Both men came out to a solid and respectful reception by the crowd. After the pre-match introductions, Muta blew Green Mist into the air as part of his pre-match ritual (and perhaps as intimidation) toward Masahiro Chono. This was a slow-paced match throughout the first half of the match, as both men countered various headlocks and armbar attempts to psych each other out. Muta hit a nice headlock takedown to keep Chono at bay. Masa Chono would retaliate with a well delivered Samoan Drop.

  As Muta regained the advantage, he took control over most of the offense in this contest, as he bounces off the ropes and connects with a Flashing Elbow Drop to the sternum of Masa Chono. This was followed up by a Juugatame Armbar (Cross Armbar) by The Great Muta. Chono regains the upper hand as he continues to work over the knee and leg area of Muta, followed up by an Inverted Side Indian Deathlock submission hold. Both men would continue their match on the rampway. The Great Muta would regain the advantage and hit Chono with a solid Running Bulldog, driving Chono’s face into the hard ramp (which as most of you fans know has no give to it whatsoever). Muta would continue with the offense by running from one side of the ramp and back down to connect with a Running Clothesline from one end to the other, as the crowd popped for this maneuver.

  Both wrestlers would go back into the ring, as Muta would connect with a well-placed Superplex from the top rope. “The Pearl of the Orient” (Muta) would connect with a Bridging German Suplex. Then, as Chono is tossed into the turnbuckle. The Great Muta would connect with his signature Handspring Elbow, driving the elbow to the heart of Chono. This would setup up the Moonsault by Muta, but the move is countered as Chono gets the knees up just in the nick of time.

  Masahiro Chono would connect with the Yakuza Kick (Running Big Boot) flush right to the face of Muta. As the match progressed, Muta would counter a suplex attempt from the ring apron to send Masa Chono crashing down hard on the rampway. Masa Chono would regain the advantage and connect with a Belly-to-Back Suplex to Muta. Eventually, both wrestlers would reenter the ring. Chono climbs the top turnbuckle and hits a Diving Shoulderblock on Muta.

  Chono would connect with a beautifully delivered Powerbomb Pin for the near fall, as this move would lead into a Samoan Drop that Chono would use to follow up for his patented STF submission hold. The Great Muta would fight out of the STF, as he would make a comeback and nail Chono with a Hurricanrana. This move would lead Muta into the Side Backbreaker to setup for the Moonsault. This time, Muta would connect with the Moonsault to get the pin fall victory. The Great Muta would be crowned the new NWA World Heavyweight Champion!

  What did you think of the match? Let me know in the comments below or submit your thoughts on my Twitter or Facebook page at the links below. Thank you for reading and for watching the match. I will see you all next week for “Sunday Night ShowDown!”. Also, don’t forget to like and follow my pages for access to my latest writings and ongoing updates!

Facebook: Click Here

Twitter: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

MLW Fusion - Episode 01 - When Worlds Collide

Synopsis:

   MLW Fusion is a weekly show broadcasted at 8pm (EST) every Friday night on beIN Sports Network. Replays are shown at 11pm (EST). Each episode is posted on their YouTube channel the following evening at 6pm (EST), completely FREE of charge. MLW typically holds their taping locations in Orlando, Florida. MLW features wrestlers from across the globe from various independent promotions, also Ring of Honor, Impact Wrestling, Lucha Underground, New Japan Pro Wrestling and other organizations. A “fusion” of all the different styles in professional wrestling.

   Opening Package showing highlights of past MLW shows leading up to the present day, featuring stars such as Terry Funk, CM Punk, Steve Corino and more!

   We are welcomed to our first broadcast of MLW Fusion with your ring announcers, Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini. They promote the main event for tonight, as Rey Fenix goes one-on-one with Pentagon Jr. We go to the thing for our opening contest.

ACH versus Austin Aries

   ACH cut a pre-match promo saying he is the greatest wrestler on gods green earth and that no one can stop him.

   Crowd is split down the middle for both men. Both men shake hands to show respect and sportsmanship. Aries with the side headlock. Aries gets backed into the corner by ACH as both men try to feel each other out. ACH’s leg is visibly taped up. Waist lock by ACH countered into an Armlock by Aries. ACH counters into a snap mare, then Aries with the go behind armlock into a side headlock. Great chain wrestling action by both wrestlers. ACH works over the arm, as Aries takes down ACH into a cover for a quick 2 count. ACH exits the ring to regain his composure, then enters the ring with Austin Aries waiting. Crowd continues to be split between both men. ACH with the side headlock. Aries pushes him off the ropes but is met with a shoulder tackle. Various flips and counters by both men, as ACH takes Aries down with a quick arm drag takedown. Aries claps in approval and respect towards ACH.

   Aries with the side headlock, then gets countered into the turnbuckle. Both men criss cross, with Aries taking down ACH with a quick arm drag. Both men go down, as Aries with a quick headstand hits a fast dropkick. ACH in the lower corner, as Aries drops the knees into the ribcage. ACH ducks the clothesline and counters into a big dropkick for a near fall. ACH snap mares, then drops the knee on Aries for a one count. Various covers but to no avail by ACH on Austin Aries. ACH drops the elbow across the head of Aries. ACH backs Aries into the corner and chops him, then chops him for a second time. He goes for a cover and gets a one count. Aries knees him in the gut, then chops ACH. Aries is lured into the ring apron, as ACH hits Aries with a Missile Dropkick from the turnbuckle to the apron.

   Austin Aries is out on the floor, as ACH goes for a front kick, but is countered and sent face first on the apron. With ACH draped across the apron, Aries hits the high knee then a Slingshot Elbow, slides ACH back in and hits the Springboard Senton Splash for the 2 count. Aries continues to drive the knees into ACH at the corner. Aries back chops ACH, as Aries whips him into the opposite turnbuckle, then snap mares him down. Aries climbs the top rope and hits a Spinning Discus Elbow to the back/head of ACH for a two count. Aries applies a surfboard stretch to ACH to work over the injured leg but is countered into a rollup pin for a two count.

   Crowd continues chanting for both men. Aries irish whips ACH into the corner, then gets dropped over onto the apron. Aries hits a shoulder block to the ribs, then drops an elbow across the head. Austin Aries comes off the top rope with a Missile Dropkick but is countered and dodged by ACH. ACH leg sweeps, then double stomps Aries across the back, then hits a running low dropkick to the head. Austin Aries goes to the corner as ACH hits a Discus Clothesline sending Aries crashing down to the mat.

   ACH climbs the top rope and misses a Frog Splash. Aries goes for a corner dropkick but ACH hits a big boot for the counter, then a Slingshot Stunner from the outside in to get a near fall on Aries. Aries counters the suplex into a back slam, then a Spinning Elbow Drop for a two count. ACH hits the standing Enziguri. Aries rolls to the outside but is met with a front kick across the apron (brutal shot!). Aries rolls back inside as ACH climbs the turnbuckle. ACH connects this time with the Frog Splash for a near fall.

   ACH picks up Aries across the shoulders for an Electric Chair Drop. Aries counters drops down and hits the Clapper Chop across the ears. Aries pops ACH with a Knife Edge Chop. Aries bounces of the ropes and is met with a huge Lariat clothesline for a two count. Both men on the apron. Aries hits a Death Valley Driver on the apron. ACH rolls Aries onto his back, then hits a double stomp. He climbs the top rope and goes for the 450 Splash but is countered by Aries who gets the knees up for the two count. At this point, Aries rolls into the Last Chancery submission. ACH is able to break out of the hold. ACH hits a Flatliner. Moments later, Austin Aries hits a discus forearm, setting up for a corner dropkick to daze ACH. Austin Aries finishes ACH off with a Brainbuster to get the pin.

   Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini hype up the main event for later tonight. Next up we have Barrington Hughes in action.

   Next, we have a promo featuring Jimmy Havoc. He talks about the Sunshine State of Florida, which leads into talks about Dusty Rhodes and Steve Corino being busted open from over the years to the people’s enjoyment as he talks about people wanting to see red turn to green. He says that as a voyeur of their scene, the crowd will get exactly what they want.

Barrington Hughes versus Chico Adams.

   “The Caramel Colossus” Barrington Hughes makes his way down to ringside. In a pre-match promo, he says he’s the biggest and best thing going today. Whether you give him one or two opponents, it does not matter, because he will not stop until he reaches the top. The match is over before it could even begin, as Hughes hits the Uranage Slam to Chico Adams for the quick three count.

   Tony Schiavone promotes the main event for next week’s show, as we will see MLW World Heavyweight Champion, “The Swerve” Shane Strickland versus “Indy’s Most Dangerous Man” Jimmy Havoc.

Pentagon Jr. versus Rey Fenix.

   Our main event is up next. Pentagon Jr. goes one-on-one with Rey Fenix. Both men have a history together, as they are “brothers” and arguably the top two Mexican wrestlers in the entire world. Pentagon Jr. is managed to the ring by Selina De Lorenza. Pentagon Jr. denies the show of respect (handshake) as Pentagon and Fenix exchange words. Pentagon connects with a spinning kick, then a roughhouse kick for a near fall. Fenix counters with a leg drop and a standing Moonsault for a near fall. Both men exchange Superkicks one after the other before they both knock each other day as the crowd chants “Lucha!”.  Fenix hits the back elbow, then a chop to the test, followed up by some theatrics on the top rope then a flipping arm drag to send Pentagon Jr. out to the floor. Fenix goes for a baseball slide as Pentagon Jr misses. Both men give chase to each other from inside the ring to the outside, as Fenix jumps and collides with Pentagon Jr. with a Suicide Dive into the crowd!

   Fighting amongst the crowd, Fenix front kicks Pentagon Jr in the lower back. He picks him up and slams Pentagon into the steel ring post. They continue to battle outside the ring. Fenix throws Pentagon Jr. backslide. Fenix goes from a Springboard Elbow but is countered into a Dropkick by Pentagon. Both men exit the ring, as Pentagon chops Fenix. Pentagon delivers another vicious open hand chop to Fenix, as the crowd chants One More Time in Spanish. Pentagon Jr gives one more vicious open hand chop to Fenix.

   He goes for it one more time and miss, hitting his hand on the ring post. Fenix takes Pentagon down with a knee lift. Pentagon slams Fenix headfirst on the apron. Fenix runs off the apron and hits a Hurricanrana on Pentagon, sending him into the crowd. Fenix charges after Pentagon and is met with a huge Superkick. Pentagon mocks the crowd (Hulk Hogan style). Both men in the ring, as Fenix hits a bicycle kick then a Springboard Kick from the ropes to the corner on Pentagon Jr. for a near fall. Fenix backflips off the turnbuckle and is met with a Double Knee Lungblower for a pin fall attempt by Fenix. Sling Blade by Pentagon (x2) for a two count. Standing Side Kick by Pentagon. The winner has the opportunity to face Shane Strickland in a future bout.

   Fenix connects with a series of kicks into the Pele Kick. Pentagon counters with a Super Kick. Finally, Fenix drives Pentagon Jr. down with a Springboard Cutter for a two count. Pentagon Jr. kicks Fenix off the ropes to the apron. Fenix hits a Flipping Flatliner from the top rope to get a two count. Pentagon Jr. catches Fenix running and nails a Powerbomb Knee Breaker for a near fall. Pentagon climbs the turnbuckle, jumps and hits a Canadian Destroyer Piledriver for a two count. Crowd chants “This is Awesome!”. Fenix and Pentagon Jr. exchange slaps and chops. Slugging each other back and forth with punches and forearms, kicks. Pentagon Jr. catches Fenix flips him up in the air and drops him hard with a Powerbomb. Then hits an arm breaker in attempt to break his arm. Finally, Pentagon Jr. hits the Fear Factor for the pin fall. Pentagon Jr. earns an MLW World Heavyweight Championship Match against Shane Strickland. We see highlights of the match, as Pentagon Jr. celebrates his victory as MLW Fusion comes to a close.

Match Grading:

1.       ACH vs Austin Aries (3 ½ Stars)

2.       Barrington Hughes vs Chico Adams (1 Star)

3.       Pentagon Jr. vs Rey Fenix (4 Stars)

 For more information regarding MLW. Check out the links below:

MLW on YouTube: Click Here

MLW on Twitter: Click Here

MLW on Facebook: Click Here

[brandonewing1985-blog]

PPV Rewind: WWE Survivor Series (2012)

   The 26th annual Survivor Series took place on November 18th, 2012 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. The estimated crowd attendance was roughly 8,500 out of a possible 20,000 seat capacity. Pay-Per-View buy rate numbers came back to approximately 212,000 buys, versus 281,000 total buys from last year’s event. The original location for this show was intended for the Consol Energy Center, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. However, due to a scheduling conflict between the WWE and the NFL in relation to the Pittsburgh Steelers home game against the Baltimore Ravens, a change was made to hold the show in Indianapolis Indiana instead.

   The main draw for the event was centered around two match-ups. The WWE Championship match with CM Punk defending his championship against Ryback and John Cena in a Triple Threat Match, and a Traditional Survivor Series Match featuring “Team Foley”, with Mick Foley leading his chosen WWE SuperStars of Daniel Bryan, Kane, Kofi Kingston, The Miz and Randy Orton to do battle against “Team Ziggler”, led by Dolph Ziggler and his partners Alberto Del Rio, Damien Sandow, David Otunga and Wade Barrett.

   I will be reviewing each match and summing up how the matches progressed, for good and bad respectively. I will be implanting a simplistic rating system to rate the match based on psychology, spots, crowd participation and in-ring chemistry amongst the participants. The rating scale will be as follows:

5 Stars: Perfection – Excellent in-ring psychology and chemistry amongst all wrestlers involved. Crowd was into the match and on the edge of their seats from bell to bell.

4 Stars: Great – Great in-ring psychology and chemistry, but not quite to perfection and needs a little something extra. Good crowd participation, but left wanting more for their tastes.

3 Stars: Average – Average, run-of-the-mill match that had some decent chemistry or in-ring psychology. Crowd won’t be overly into the match but will pop at certain spots.

2 Stars: Lackluster – Ring Psychology and Chemistry wasn’t there for the wrestlers participating. Crowd was bored with the match and could care less about it.

1 Star: Poor – Little to no ring psychology or chemistry involved. Crowd hated the match and were either quiet or made up their own chants to get through it.

Preliminary Match

(Tag Match) – 3MB (Heath Slater and Jinder Mahal) Vs. Zack Ryder and Santino Marella.

   We have Scott Stanford and Matt Striker providing the commentary for the Survivor Series 2012 Pre-Show. Kicking things off with 3MB vs Zack Ryder and Santino Marella. This was an okay match, at best, to kick things off. Comedy spots, as to be expected, with Santino Marella with Heath Slater as they had a little back-and-forth banter. The crowd popped when Santino attempted to use his “Cobra” finisher on Slater, but to no avail. Heath Slater and Jinder Mahal controlled most of the contest, offensively. Working some good tag team spots to keep the advantage going. Santino worked most of the match-up until he was able to execute the “hot tag” to Zack Ryder. Ryder came in at a full head of steam. Taking out 3MB and had everything going for his team. However, Drew McIntyre interfered and struck Zack Ryder with his cast to nurse his “injured arm”. This allowed for Jinder Mahal to get the cover for the 1,2,3.

   This was a decent match to start the show. Nothing too exciting or over-the-top. The crowd popped for Santino and Ryder and did (seemingly) enjoy the little antics that played out toward the end of the contest.

RATING: 2 STARS

Main Show

 Switching things over to the main show of the Survivor Series. We kick things off with a “Traditional Survivor Series Match”, as Michael Cole, JBL and Jerry “The King” Lawler provide commentary for the audience watching at home.

(Traditional Survivor Series Match) – Brodus Clay, Justin Gabriel, Tyson Kidd, Sin Cara and Rey Mysterio vs Tensai, Primo, Epico, Titus O’Neil and Darren Young.

   Tyson Kidd and Epico started out the match. Good back-and-forth action between the two high flyers, as eventually Justin Gabriel, then later Rey Mysterio tagged in and began to work over Epico. Epico would eventually go on the offensive against Mysterio and tag in Darren Young. Rey Mysterio would get Darren Young into the lower turnbuckle and deliver a well-placed baseball slide into the hip/groin area. Rey Mysterio, along with Sin Cara, would deliver a Double Team Facebuster. As the match progressed, both men would tag out to Sin Cara and Primo respectively. Sin Cara got the crowd going with his wide variety of aerialistic moves, such as the Springboard Hurrcanrana and Jumping Sunset Flips, along with various flashy counters to Primo. He would keep the offense going until Primo could tag in Tensai. Once Tensai came in to the match, the crowd immediately started to boo and chant: “Albert!” repeatedly. Tensai would tag in to Titus O’Neil. Titus would work over and manhandle Sin Cara, using his size and strength to his advantage. The crowd started to get behind Sin Cara to encourage him to mount a comeback, but to no avail as Tensai was tagged back in.

   After a few moments of working over Sin Cara. Sin Cara would go back on the defensive and deliver the hot tag to Brodus Clay. Brodus Clay came into the ring to a huge pop from the crowd. He took out the entire heel team with one move after the other. Eventually, the entire babyface side would enter the fray and get involved. Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel would hit a pair of Suicide Dives on Epico and Primo to the floor, followed by a pair of Springboard Moonsaults to the floor by Rey Mysterio and Sin Cara on Titus O’Neil and Darren Young. This left Brodus Clay and Tensai all alone inside the ring, as the crowd stood to their feet and got behind the “The Funkadactyal”. As the two men went at each other, Brodus Clay poorly executed and botched a T-Bone Suplex to Tensai, causing Tensai to land flush on his face in scary fashion. Eventually, Tensai would recover from this spot and go back on the offensive. Tensai would eliminate Clay with a Running Senton Splash to get the pin fall.

BRODUS CLAY HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Justin Gabriel came in to replay Brodus Clay. He went after Tensai with everything he had, until Tensai countered back and tagged in Titus O’Neil. Titus worked over Gabriel for a little bit, then tagged Tensai back in to the match. Tensai hit Gabriel with a Running Senton Splash. However, before he could make the cover, Gabriel countered the pin attempt into a Crucifix Roll-Up for the 1,2,3 to (shockingly) eliminate Tensai.

TENSAI HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Titus O’Neil comes in to replace Tensai. He begins to work over Justin Gabriel until he can tag in Tyson Kidd. Tyson Kidd wastes no time in taking out O’Neil, as he is able to roll-up O’Neil for the quick pin fall.

TITUS O’NEIL HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Epico came into the match to replace O’Neil. Tyson Kidd would take down Epico in quick fashion, as he applied the Sharpshooter to Epico. Epico would tap out to the Sharpshooter.

EPICO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Primo came in next. Angry and pissed off that his tag partner was just eliminated, he goes after Tyson Kidd and goes on the offensive until Kidd can deliver the hot tag to Rey Mysterio. The crowd popped for Mysterio has he re-entered the match-up. Primo attempted the Back Stabber, but had the move countered into the La Magistral Cradle Pin for the 1,2,3.

PRIMO HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Darren Young came into the match next and was the sole member left for his team. Rey Mysterio took down Darren Young before tagging in Sin Cara. Sin Cara would hit a Diving Senton Splash from the top rope. He tagged in Justin Gabriel, who would hit a Springboard Moonsault to Young. Gabriel tagged in Tyson Kidd, who would drop Darren Young with a Diving Elbow Drop. Then finally, Rey Mysterio came in and nailed Darren Young with a Diving Splash from the top rope to get the pin fall victory for his team. TEAM MYSTERIO would pick up the win!

   Overall, this was a fun little Survivor Series match. This match had a lot of nice little high spots involved. The crowd wasn’t overly into it, but the competitors involved put on a good performance nonetheless. Minus the bad botch between Tensai and Brodus Clay, this was an entertaining opening match for the show. Lots of tagging in and out and teamwork involved. Nothing too special or out of the ordinary for a Traditional Survivor Series match-up.

RATING: 3 STARS

(WWE Divas Championship Match) – ©Eve Torres vs Kaitlyn.

   Before the match could begin, we see a segment where Kaitlyn is making her way toward the “Gorilla Position” backstage when she is suddenly attacked by Aksana, who is disguised in a blonde wig to look like Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn fought her off, as Aksana ran away. Eve shows up and apologizes to Kaitlyn, saying she doesn’t want to see anything bad happen to her before their match. Kaitlyn responds by shoving Eve down to the ground and mockingly stating the same thing in return, much to Eve’s dismay.

   Shortly thereafter, both participants made their way down to ringside and the match began. Eve worked over Kaitlyn throughout most of this match, specifically over the head and neck area. Kaitlyn had very little, if any offense whatsoever. Eve finished off Kaitlyn in relatively quick fashion with a Spinning Neckbreaker to get the pin fall and retain her Divas Championship.

   Not much to really say about this match other than is completely sucked! Why Kaitlyn had no offense during this match made zero sense. Aksana did very little if any damage to her backstage. Secondly, this match had potential to be a good but was cut severely short and left very little to be desired. Terrible match overall. Kaitlyn was buried and made Eve Torres to look incredibly strong as a Divas Champion. Granted, I don’t have anything against Eve as she was a great champion and a good heel, but the WWE could have gone about things a lot differently in terms of this match considering the talent they had. Kaitlyn is a “Hybrid Diva” with amazing talent. Eve is very athletic, can sell well and has a Ju-Jitsu background. I could go on and on about this, but I’m going to leave it that.

Match Rating: 1 Star.

(WWE United States Championship Match) – ©Cesaro vs R-Truth.

   The match was put together following an attack by Cesaro on R-Truth’s friend, Kofi Kingston. R-Truth earned a title match opportunity against Cesaro and vowed to knock Cesaro’s teeth down his throat on a previous episode of Monday Night RAW.

   This match was slow packed from beginning to end. Even offense from both men. The crowd remained (mostly) silent throughout the contest. Cesaro defeated R-Truth with the Neutralizer to retain the United States Championship. Nothing much more to say about it, as the match came off as pure “filler”. Unfortunate, considering the match could have been better given the talents of Cesaro and R-Truth, respectively.

Match Rating:  1 ½ Stars.

(AJ Lee and Vickie Guerrero In-Ring Segment).

   Heading into this segment, something of which that could have been saved for a future episode of Monday Night RAW. Vickie Guerrero had “exposed” AJ Lee with an edited recording of a phone conversation between she and John Cena, accusing AJ of sleeping around with Cena. This led to a confrontation on RAW where AJ said she was going to expose Vickie Guerrero in front of the world at Survivor Series following an encounter with her, Vickie, Dolph Ziggler and John Cena.

   AJ Lee came to ringside and said some unflattering remarks about Vickie Guerrero which led into some doctored Photoshop pictures of Vickie Guerrero eating burritos for lunch Ricardo Rodriguez, having some of JR’s BBQ sauce with Good Ol’ JR and finally a supposed one-night stand with Brodus Clay at a hotel. Vickie came out and confronted AJ over these pictures, denying that she did any of things things. Suddenly, Tamina came out and attacked AJ Lee from behind. She lays out AJ with a Samoan Drop, followed up by a Diving Body Splash. When Tamina exits the ring, Vickie starts to laugh obnoxiously at a fallen AJ Lee.

(WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match) – ©Big Show vs Sheamus.

   Big Show defeated Sheamus at the previous pay-per-view event, “Hell in a Cell” to win the World Heavyweight Championship. The following night on RAW, Big Show attacked Sheamus and his friend William Regal at a social event. A week later following this incident, Sheamus would call out Big Show to the ring on RAW, only to have Big Show appear backstage and deliver a devastating knockout punch to William Regal. This gave William Regal a concussion and a broken jaw. The results of this encounter set up the rematch for the Survivor Series.

   This match was a physical hard-fought match, as Sheamus took Big Show to his limits and gave him everything he had. He kept the big man reeling, as he clipped the knee of Big Show and sent him to the ropes, where Show would be tied up with nowhere to go. Sheamus went to the apron and delivered one thunderous clobbering blow to the chest after the other, as Big Show remained helplessly tied in the ropes. Big Show would be freed from the ropes as Sheamus climbed to the top turnbuckle. Sheamus dove off the ropes to attempt a Diving Shoulderblock, but had this move countered into a Spear from Big Show.

   The action then spilled to the arena floor, as Show rammed Sheamus into the steel steps. Then, he began to work over the shoulder/arm area. Big Show took advantage of this match and slowed the match down with a few rest holds to try and ware Sheamus down. Sheamus would counter and fight back, connecting with a Slingshot Shoulderblock that sent Big Show stumbling back. Show would fight back with a thrust kick. Sheamus attempted to fight back but was dropped with a Side Slam. Sheamus would next have this shoulder slammed hard into the steel ring post after he attempted to go back on the offensive but to no avail. Big Show set up Sheamus for a corner Slingshot Splash. Sheamus took advantage of this opportunity, as he got up and courageously picked up the 400+ pound Big Show over his shoulders and slammed him with an Electric Chair Drop.

   Both men went tooth and nail, exchanging punches and chops to one another. Sheamus took him down with a high knee smash and a flying clothesline to get the crowd excited as he mounts a comeback, as this quickly becomes a hard-physical battle. Sheamus counters the Chokeslam into the White Noise, which ended up being one of the biggest highlights of the match. The crowd became unglued as Sheamus called for the Brogue Kick. Big Show instinctively dodges as he pulls the referee in the way, causing Sheamus to kick the referee instead.

   With the referee knocked out cold, other WWE officials and medics rush to ringside to check on his condition, as does Sheamus who feels guilty over the inadvertent Brogue Kick. Big Show gets up to his feet, takes advantage of the distraction and lays Sheamus out with the Knockout Punch. Show makes the cover as another referee makes the three count. Big Show retains the World Heavyweight Championship.

   Immediately thereafter, another referee tells the ring announcer that he has reversed the decision based on Big Show pulling the initial referee in the crosshairs of Sheamus’ Brogue Kick and has therefore disqualified the Big Show. Sheamus would get the win by DQ, but the Big Show would still retain the World Heavyweight Championship. A livid Sheamus would then attack Big Show with a Steel Chair. Big Show, crawling up the rampway, begins pleading with Sheamus to stop and begs for mercy. The crowd starts to chant: “We want tables!”, as Sheamus continues his assault on Big Show. Finally, Big Show is laid out with a Brogue Kick at the top of the ramp way, as Sheamus celebrates with the crowd.

   This match was very good and can be (arguably) considered as a Match of the Night candidate by other wrestling fans and journalists. A lot of good, hard, physical action. Big Show and Sheamus have good chemistry and it showed throughout the match. The crowd was interested and engaged for the most part. The pacing of the match was relatively good, a little too slow in parts, but it all became worth of the conclusion and aftermath.

Match Rating: 3 ½ Stars

(Traditional Survivor Series Match) - *Team Ziggler* (Dolph Ziggler, Damien Sandow, Alberto Del Rio, Wade Barrett and David Otunga) vs *Team Foley* (Randy Orton, Kane, Daniel Bryan, The Miz and Kofi Kingston).

   The match was setup through an ongoing feud between Mick Foley and Dolph Ziggler, that quickly escalated into the two agreeing to a Traditional 5-on-5 Survivor Series match. Foley chose his team of five, as Ziggler chose his partners to participate in the match. In the weeks leading up to Survivor Series, Cody Rhodes, whom was originally slated to participate for Team Ziggler was injured after a botched Back Body Drop by Kane on WWE Main Event. With Cody out of action, David Otunga was chosen to be his replacement.

   Kofi Kingston and David Otunga start out the match. Kofi sends Otunga to the arena floor then delivers a crossbody block. Kofi tags in Daniel Bryan. The crowd immediately erupted with “YES!” chants, as Bryan went after Otunga. Otunga would eventually tag in to Damien Sandow. Sandow would take control and nail a Russian Leg Sweep, followed by the Elbow of Disdain. Bryan would get back in control of the match as he irish whipped Sandow to the corner, then nails him with a Flying Turnbuckle Missile Dropkick, followed by a series of YES! Kicks to the chest and abdomen. Sandow exits the ring and tries to get counted out, but Kane sends him back inside the ring. Kane is tagged in by Daniel Bryan. “The Big Red Machine” delivers a Chokeslam to Sandow and covers him for the pin fall.

DAMIEN SANDOW HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Kane and Daniel Bryan begin arguing over who is legal in the match. This distraction leads to Dolph Ziggler coming in and drops Kane from behind with the Zig Zag. He covers Kane for the quick pin fall victory.

KANE HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Randy Orton comes in to the match. After he and Ziggler exchange blows, he tags in Kofi Kingston. Kofi sends Ziggler flying in the air with a huge Monkey Flip (which Ziggler sells hilariously!). Kofi tags in Daniel Bryan. After a few moments, Ziggler regains the upper hand and tags in Wade Barrett. After a few punches, Daniel Bryan attempts a turnbuckle dropkick but misses as Wade takes advantage and tags in David Otunga.

   Otunga uses his power and strength to throw Daniel Bryan into the corner, then clotheslines Daniel Bryan, followed up by a Running Shoulder Block. As David Otunga goes in for the pin, Bryan reverses the attempt and applies the YES! Lock. Otunga immediately taps out.

DAVID OTUNGA HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Alberto Del Rio comes in to the match. He drills Daniel Bryan with a Tilt-A-Whirl Backbreaker. A few moments later, Daniel Bryan counters an irish whip attempt and sends Barrett out to the arena floor with a Back Body Drop. As Barrett comes back into the ring, Bryan tags in Kofi Kingston. The crowd pops, as Kofi delivers a series of chops and dropkicks to set up Wade Barrett for the BOOM Drop. He then catches Barrett with a Springboard Crossbody Block for a near fall. Not long after this, Wade gets the advantage and hits a Spinning Tilt-A-Whirl Sideslam, followed by the Bullhammer. Wade pins Kofi Kingston and eliminate him from the competition.

KOFI KINGSTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Randy Orton comes into the match once again. Orton counters a Vertical Suplex by Barrett into a suplex of his own, then hits Barrett with a knee drop. He tags Daniel Bryan in. Bryan delivers a series of YES! Kicks to Wade Barrett in the corner, followed by a Front Missile Dropkick. Wade would regain some offense and clotheslines Bryan to the arena floor. He tags in Alberto Del Rio. Del Rio goes to attack Daniel Bryan, who has reentered the ring, but is countered by Bryan into the YES! Lock. Del Rio fights out of the hold and hits a side thrust kick to the chest of Bryan, before sending Bryan to the corner and hitting him with a Running Enziguiri Kick. Following this Del Rio applies the Cross Armbreaker to Daniel Bryan, as Bryan has no choice but to tap out.

DANIEL BRYAN HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   The Miz comes into the match for the first time. He catches Del Rio with a Running Forearm Shot to the face. He quickly tags in Randy Orton. Orton methodically stomps on Del Rio, then hits him with a well-placed uppercut. Del Rio eventually fights back and hits Orton with a Double Knee Arm Breaker, then tags in Dolph Ziggler. Dolph hits a Jumping Elbow Drop to Orton for a near fall. Orton throws Dolph high in the air and lets him come crashing down to the mat, flapjack style. Moments later, both The Miz and Wade Barrett are tagged in to the match. The Miz comes off the hot tag and gets the crowed excited. He delivers a Big Boot to Ziggler on the apron, then nails Barrett with a corner dropkick. Wade Barrett counters with a thrust kick to the midsection to slow The Miz down. Wade Barrett sets up for the Wasteland, but has the move countered into the Skull Crushing Finale. Miz covers Barrett for the pin fall victory.

WADE BARRETT HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   The Miz plants Alberto Del Rio with a DDT for a near fall. Del Rio would recover and counter this with a German Suplex for a near fall of his own. Del Rio takes a bad bump off the turnbuckle and lands awkwardly on his head. Del Rio can recover and hits The Miz with a Corner Enziguiri Kick to get the pin fall victory.

THE MIZ HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Randy Orton comes in as the sole remaining member left for Team Foley. Orton takes out both Ziggler and Del Rio with clotheslines. Ziggler would attack Orton afterwards, as both men double teamed Orton to take advantage of the situation at hand. Del Rio hit a double stomp to Orton. With Orton and Del Rio as the legal men, Orton with a big dropkick as the crowd erupts in excitement. One clothesline after the other, as Orton would finish off the offensive onslaught by irish whipping Del Rio off the ropes and then catching him with a big powerslam.

   Ricardo Rodriguez would get involved to distract Orton. Mick Foley takes care of Rodriguez quickly, pulling out “Mr. Socko” and applying the Mandible Claw to Rodriguez to neutralize him. Crowd breaks out into “Foley!” chants. Meanwhile, Del Rio grabs Orton from behind and holds Orton for Ziggler to dropkick him. Ziggler accidently hits Del Rio instead, gets taken down by Orton, allowing for Orton to turn around and drop Del Rio with an RKO for the pin fall victory.

ALBERTO DEL RIO IS ELIMINATED!

   We are now down to Randy Orton and Dolph Ziggler, the final two men left for each team. Orton quickly goes for the RKO on Del Rio, but has the move countered into the Zig Zag for a near fall. Shortly thereafter, Orton counters the Rocker Dropper by Ziggler and sets Ziggler up for a mid-rope DDT, sending Ziggler crashing to the mat headfirst. This leads to Orton setting up his prey for the Punt Kick. As Orton charges after Ziggler, Dolph delivers a thunderous Super Kick. Knocking out Randy Orton, allowing for Ziggler to get the winning pin fall.

RANDY ORTON HAS BEEN ELIMINATED!

   Team Ziggler wins the match, with Dolph Ziggler being the sole survivor as both Randy Orton and Mick Foley look on in complete disbelief. This match delivered the goods in terms of being a good Traditional Survivor Series match. Lots of match drama, excitement and crowd interaction. The spots were pretty good as well, everyone was given the chance to shine and put their thumbprint in this contest. With Orton’s past victories at Survivor Series many felt that Team Foley would be the odds-on favorite to win based on that statistic alone, but Ziggler had other plans as he was able to steal a clean hard-fought victory for his team.

Match Rating: 3 ½ Stars

(WWE Championship – Triple Threat Match) – ©CM Punk vs John Cena vs Ryback.

   CM Punk defeated the previously undefeated Ryback at Hell in a Cell with interference from a planted referee officiating the contest. The “referee” gave Ryback a low blow, allowing for Punk to rollup Ryback for the quick counted 1,2,3. The referee was revealed to be Brad Maddox, a man hired by Punk and Paul Heyman to secure CM Punk his title victory over Ryback. Mr. McMahon announced a rematch for the Survivor Series, with John Cena added to the mix to shake things up for the WWE Champion on a prior episode of RAW.

   The match began with John Cena and Ryback giving chase to CM Punk, as Punk is eventually cornered by Ryback and Cena. Both men double team Punk, taking turns exchanging blows to the champion. CM Punk would eventually get the upper hand, taking Cena down and went right after Ryback. Ryback would counter Punk with a Big Boot then applied a Chokehold. Following this, Cena recovers and hits Punk with a running bulldog. CM Punk is then clotheslined outside the ring by Ryback. A stare down takes place between Ryback and Cena inside the ring.

   Ryback overpowers Cena, as the crowd breaks into chants of “Let’s Go Cena/CM Punk!”. Cena delivers a shoulder tackle to Ryback. Ryback counters back with a shoulder tackle of his own. Punk reenters the ring and goes after Ryback, kicking away at his leg to weaken “The Big Guy”, then drops him with a Snap Suplex. Ryback no sells the suplex, gets back up and delivers a Military Press Slam to Punk. John Cena then attacks Ryback, as Punk climbs to the top turnbuckle and hits a Diving Axe Handle on Ryback. Afterwards, Punk tosses Cena outside the ring and then hits Ryback with another Diving Axe Handle from the top rope. Ryback fights back and hits Punk with a shoulder block into the corner. Punk responds with a Spinning Back Wheel Kick to the face of Ryback. Cena gets back into the ring and attempts an Attitude Adjustment, but Punk counters this into a DDT. Cena hits Punk with a powerslam, then a Spin-Out Powerbomb to Ryback. Ryback no sells the powerbomb and begins exchanging punches with Cena.

   CM Punk rolls outside the ring, grabs Cena and drags him to the arena floor, slamming him into the steel steps. Punk climbs onto the apron and hits Ryback with a Springboard Clothesline inside the ring. Ryback counters and hits a series of clotheslines, followed up by a Back Body Drop and a Spinebuster to Punk. Ryback starts to rally the crowd into chanting: “Feed. Me. More!” as he prepares to hit the Meathook Clothesline on Punk. He drills the champ with the Meathook Clothesline. Ryback hits the Shellshock on Punk, but Cena gets back into the ring, breaks up the pin and applies an STF to Ryback.

   Punk regains his composure, shakes off the cobwebs and climbs the top turnbuckle to deliver a Diving Elbow Drop to both men to break up the submission attempt. Punk attempts a GTS to Cena but is countered as both men exchange rights and lefts. Ryback gets up and hits both men with a double clothesline that sends both Punk and Cena crashing to the arena floor.

   Outside the ring, both Punk and Cena regain their composure and go after Ryback. They block a Double Shellshock attempt and send Ryback crashing through the announce table with a Double Suplex. Punk and Cena go back into the ring, as Ryback is laid out on the arena floor amongst the wrecked table. Cena mounts a comeback to Punk, hitting two Running Shoulderblocks followed up by a Spin-Out Powerbomb. Cena goes for the 5 Knuckle Shuffle but has this countered into the GTS for a near fall. Cena gets back up and delivers an Attitude Adjustment to Punk for a near fall as well.

   The crowd begins to chant for CM Punk as Punk delivers a variety of kicks to Cena, then a Running Knee Lift into the corner. Punk attempts a bulldog from the corner but has this reversed into the STF. Ryback gets up from the wreckage outside the ring and drags Cena outside to the floor. Ryback hits Cena with the Meathook Clothesline, laying Cena out. He enters the ring, picks up CM Punk and hits the Shellshock. Cena comes back into the ring and goes after Ryback. He attempts an Attitude Adjustment, but has it countered into the Shellshock.

   Suddenly, three mysterious individuals jump over the barricade, dressed in black, as they break up the pin attempt and target Ryback. The trio drag Ryback outside the ring, continuing to pummel and assault him, before they deliver a Triple Powerbomb through the Spanish announce table. The three men then quickly leave the scene, as Michael Cole would later reveal the three men to be Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose from NXT.

   With Ryback taken out by these three men, Punk crawls over and covers Cena in the ring to get the pin fall victory to retain the WWE Championship. CM Punk and Paul Heyman would celebrate Punk’s title victory as the Survivor Series goes off the air.

  The main event was indeed very exciting and was a good match to conclude the show. The debut of Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns, the three men who we would learn would become “The Shield” was the standout moment of the entire pay-per-view. Outside of the interference, the match was good and had the crowd was very engaged. Ryback looked very strong and hung in there with Punk and Cena, whom were established main eventers for WWE at the time. Punk would weasel his way out of this predicament and continue his reign as WWE Champion for the next several months. Ryback would go on to feud with The Shield in the weeks to come, as John Cena would continue to feud with Punk and eventually The Rock over the WWE Championship title. All in all, this was a satisfying main event that delivered and gave each Superstar involved a direction to go after the show went off the air.

Match Rating: 4 Stars

 OVERALL SHOW RATING:

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Armbar: The Chris Jericho Saga Continues

   Chris Jericho has captivated audiences for many years wrestling in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) for the last twenty-eight years. He has won multiple World Heavyweight Championships, Intercontinental, Tag Team, European, Television, Cruiserweight, and Junior Heavyweight titles over the span of nine different wrestling organizations. Multiple honors such as “Match of the Year” (2008) for his classic encounter with “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels at “WWE No Mercy” (2008), along with “Feud of the Year” (2008) with HBK. Jericho was voted “Most Underrated Wrestler” (1999, 2000) and “Wrestler of the Year” (2008, 2009). He also achieved a Hall of Fame Induction by the “Wrestling Observer Newsletter” for the class of 2010.

   Chris has appeared in multiple films and television shows since the early 2000’s, along with a popular podcast appropriately titled: “Talk is Jericho”. He is also an award-winning author, penning four books covering his wrestling career through 2017, life lessons and road stories from his illustrious career. A musician and recording artist for his band: “Fozzy” since the early 2000’s. To say that Chris Jericho has done it all in the wrestling business would be an understatement.

   Today, I am honored to talk about Chris Jericho’s post WWE career, spanning from 2017 to the present day. While Jericho still makes the occasional appearance for WWE in terms of special live events and cameos, he has been busy outside the company competing in NJPW since November 5th, 2017.

Chris Jericho Returns to NJPW

   “Kenny Omega. What a dynamic performer. What a fantastic tremendous performer. But he is not the best in the world. I am. So many claim to be the best. From Shawn Michaels, Edge, CM Punk. But they are all gone. I am still here. Because I am the best in the world. The greatest of all time. The alpha of this business. Cause I am challenging you Kenny. Jericho vs Kenny. Alpha vs Omega. To see who is really the best. I want to meet you… January 4th at Wrestle Kingdom 12 in the Tokyo Dome. Let’s see who really is the best… bitch!” – Chris Jericho

   Chris Jericho’s challenge was accepted by Kenny Omega, immediately following the surprise vignette. New Japan Pro Wrestling confirmed the match-up and made it official the following day. Speculation followed with Jericho’s contract status. Dave Meltzer reported that Jericho’s contract had indeed expired and he was a free agent. However, other outlets reported that Jericho was still under contract with the WWE but was given permission by WWE Chairman Vince McMahon to wrestle this match against Kenny Omega. No matter the contract status, the wrestling world was hyped for this “Dream Match” that was about to occur. This would prove to be Jericho’s first wrestling match in NJPW in over 20 years.

   Kenny Omega would be attacked by Chris Jericho weeks later on December 11th, 2017. After another promo vignette by Chris Jericho, Kenny Omega would be left a bloodied, beaten mess at the hands of Jericho.

Chris Jericho attacks Kenny Omega

   Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega would get into another physical altercation weeks later before their scheduled match at the Wrestle Kingdom 12 Tokyo Dome Press Conference. Due to the barbaric nature of these attacks, NJPW officials would declare that Chris Jericho vs Kenny Omega would now be a No Disqualification Match.

Chris Jericho vs Kenny Omega (Wrestle Kingdom 12)

   Following the encounter between Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega. NJPW held an event entitled: “New Year Dash!!! 2018”. Chris Jericho would attack Tetsuya Naito, then would provoke another heinous assault on Naito months later in May 2018. Like his attack on Kenny Omega months prior, Jericho would bust Tetsuya Naito wide open. Because of this, a match would be set for Dominion 6.9 for the IWGP Intercontinental Championship.

Chris Jericho vs Tetsuya Naito (Dominion 6.9)

   After his victory over Tetsuya Naito. Chris Jericho would become the first professional wrestler in history to have a WWE Intercontinental and IWGP Intercontinental Championship title reign. Not long after the match. Jericho pitched an idea to Vince [McMahon] for Summer Slam 2018 that would pit Jericho versus current WWE Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins in a special IC vs IC inter-promotional match, with both titles on the line in what would have been an unprecedented matchup for the ages. Jericho would confirm that Vince turned the match offer down.

Chris Jericho attacks Kenny Omega (All In 2018)

   Chris Jericho would make his presence felt in a surprise appearance at “All-In”, a special independent wrestling event put together by Cody Rhodes and the Young Bucks. The show featured talent from Ring of Honor, NJPW, Impact Wrestling and many other promotions that were not directly associated with the WWE. At the conclusion of Kenny Omega vs Pentagon Jr. Chris Jericho would appear as a Pentagon Jr. “doppelganger”, attacking Omega and laying him out. Setting the stage for a future showdown at “Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager”, an event being held and put together by Chris Jericho, in late October. The event will feature multiple wrestlers, musicians, friends and artists as part of the “Chris Jericho Cruise” extravaganza.

   The future for Chris Jericho continues to shine brighter than ever with no signs of slowing down and calling it a career anytime soon.

For more information regarding Chris Jericho. Check out these links below:

Twitter: @IAmJericho

Talk is Jericho (Podcast): Click Here

Fozzy (Official Website): Click Here

A Lion’s Tale: Around the World in Spandex (Book - 2007): Click Here

Undisputed: How to Become a World Champion in 1,372 Easy Steps (Book – 2011): Click Here

The Best in the World: At What I Have No Idea (Book – 2014): Click Here

No is a Four-Letter Word: How I Failed Spelling but Succeeded in Life (Book – 2017): Click Here