It's finally time. Wrestlemania 32 will be held this Sunday at AT&T Stadium in front of likely the biggest crowd in WWE history. Counting the pre-show, there are 11 matches on the card, 3 pre-show, 8 main card. This year's Wrestlemania will be notable for a few reasons. One, it's Wrestlemania. Two, it's a Wrestlemania card that could have been so much more. While it's definitely not a bad card, could you imagine how much better it would have been with if the entire roster was healthy? Tyson Kidd and Cesaro could have been in the IC Title match, maybe Rollins or Orton could have faced Styles and John Cena could have went against the biggest challenge of his career by facing The Undertaker. It's a card that just could have been more. Third, it will be the first Wrestlemania since 19 without either John Cena or Randy Orton on the card. Yes, they've competed at 12 straight events. It's highly likely that John Cena will be at Wrestlemania in some type of fashion because he's definitely healed by now. Without further ado, let's start breaking it down!
Oh, how far the United States title has fallen. What a difference a year makes. Last year, Rusev and Cena were in a nice feud over the title and now it's down to a random match on the pre-show. Really guys? Anyway, Kalisto is defending against Ryback of all people. I really don't care but Kalisto is a NXT guy so I'm cheering for him in this match up.
So, they have a 10 Diva tag match featuring some of the cast of Total Divas taking on Team B.A.D and Blonde. It's Brie Bella, in what will probably be her last match, Alicia Fox, Natayla, Paige and, umm, Eva Marie taking on Naomi, Tamina, Summer Raw, EMMA and Lana. Paige and Brie go from the main card last year to the pre show this year. Another pointless match for me but I think the heels win with Lana pinning Brie.
In what will be the most competitive match on the pre-show, The Dudleys are going to face The Usos. It's really a match between two top teams from their respective generations. I wish this was a Tables match or something but it should still be a nice little match up. The Usos need to get back into the tag title picture and I think they will start that with an impressive win here.
The Andre the Giant Battle Royal makes its return. It's a 20 man match with only 16 people announced. There's going to be some type of surprise here. Rumors are saying Cesaro will compete and that would be nice to see. I definitely miss his in ring work. That would leave three spots, which I would assume go to the remaining Wyatt Family members, you know, SINCE BRAY WYATT DOESN'T HAVE A MATCH FOR WRESTLEMANIA!!! What the hell is that all about? How did he go from a main event match with Lesnar to absolutely nothing? That's ridiculous! I don't think any of the announced stars will win so it's either down to Cesaro and he'll win it again or to Bray Wyatt or Braun Strowman. Take your pick.
Kevin Owens makes his Wrestlemania debut in a huge fashion, having to defend his Intercontinental Championship against Sami Zayn, The Miz, Dolph Ziggler, Sin Cara, Stardust and Zack Ryder. Zack Ryder? Well, originally Neville was going to be in the position but he hurt his ankle so they called Ryder up. RYDER, of all people. Not someone in NXT or not even Tyler freaking Breeze, but ZACK RYDER. This match is definitely centered all on Owens and Zayn and since that's the case, the only ones who can win are OWENS AND ZAYN. Why not just do a one on one match at the biggest show of the year? It will still be a great match as I'm sure they'll be looking to impress and steal the show but it will be Kevin Owens who will grab his title and retain. He'll obviously face Zayn one on one at a B PPV.
AJ Styles will make his Wrestlemania debut in his FOURTH match with Chris Jericho. This should be another great match and even better with a heel Jericho but come on, this is the 4th time they've faced each other. It would have been better to just include these two in the ladder match for the spots alone. There's no way that Jericho goes over in this great match. His loss to Fandango at Wrestlemania 29, Do I need to say more? AJ Styles wins. Can we please see the Spinal Tap?
The New Day will face The League of Nations in their babyface turn match. No titles on the line so The League takes it here. Should be good. Sorry if it feels like I don't care about the match but WWE obviously doesn't by not having the titles on the line so, yeah. League wins!
Dean Ambrose makes his one on one Wrestlemania debut against the Beast Brock Lesnar in a No Holds Barred Street Fight. This will rank up there with the best street fights in Wrestlemania history. This match reminds me a lot of Lesnar/Punk from SummerSlam 2013. A smaller guy who wouldn't stand a chance against Lesnar without some type of weapons. We all know how that match turned out. This was suppose to be Bray Wyatt VS Brock Lesnar but it was changed at the last minute for whatever reason. I think it's time for WWE to start backing Ambrose as the top face of the company. I like Reigns but the fans cheering want Ambrose and for good reason. His Lunatic Fringe gimmick has resonated so clearly with the audience and he has that true underdog status that the fans like. That's the only reason why I think this match was changed. You couldn't have this guy apart of a lesser match on the biggest show of the year for the 2nd straight year. Ambrose needs the win on the big stage but his opponent is just unbeatable. The man has been pinned since Wrestlemania 29 and his loss to Taker was so wrapped in controversy that I can't even count that. Lesnar taking a loss to Ambrose wouldn't hurt his marque value at all as he'll truly still be a big force to be reckoned with. He needs to lose here. My bet is that the Wyatt Family gets involved in some sort of fashion. Bray Wyatt HAS to make a Wrestlemania appearance somehow. I might be wrong in all of this but I think Dean Ambrose will finally get a win at a big stage. He's come close so many times before so give him the win WWE.
In one of the more bizarre main events in Wrestlemania history, The Undertaker will do battle with Shane McMahon inside Hell in a Cell. First off, kudos to WWE for completely keeping everyone in the dark about this match. There's no one in the world who could have predicted this match. NO ONE. Pro wrestling is partly about surprises and this was definitely a big one. This is a match for the Attitude Era fans who want violence over actual in ring wrestling. There's a great story here, a bit forced but still interesting to boot. Shane wants control of Raw, Vince agrees only if he can beat Taker at Mania inside HIAC. It was further added if Taker loses, then this would be his last Wrestlemania. I'm a bit torn on this match. Shane couldn't possibly beat The Undertaker could he? I mean, everything is possible now that the Streak is over right? Undertaker can't possibly wrestle his last Wrestlemania against Shane McMahon could he? Something has to give. Is Shane back full time with the company? Is this just a one off appearance? There's a lot of questions with no answer heading into Wrestlemania and that's great because you don't know who's going to win the match! I think The Undertaker will come away with a hard fought victory. If Shane was to win, it's only due to interference from somebody. Balor Club making their debut? John Cena? The Rock, who will be appearing live? Someone would have to screw Taker to make the win believable. Undertaker wins though. I think...
While I was typing this first sentence, I got legit goosebumps. It's so rare when the WWE main roster has a women's match that I'm looking forward to. This is easily the match I want to see most at Wrestlemania this year. Charlotte will defend her Divas Title, maybe soon to be Women's Title if rumors mean anything, against Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch in an all NXT women's affair. I'm so proud that I'll be able to watch these women compete. I've been following NXT since it came to the WWE Network and all three of these ladies impressed me with their physical abilities. For them all to be sharing a Wrestlemania moment together must be very emotional for them. This will be the match that opens people's eyes to what women can do in WWE. It will show everyone why there was so much buzz about these three in the first place. This match NEEDS time. It shouldn't be a quick 8-10 minute affair. It needs time to play out. We don't need a lot of time for The New Day match or the Battle Royal. This is a MAIN EVENT and needs the time to be treated as such. This will be an amazing match, one that will light the division on fire. Who get the win though? This is Charlotte's first Wrestlemania and she's the daughter of Ric Flair. Will she really lose in her Mania debut? I think it's possible. Sasha Banks is the fan favorite, her cousin Snoop Dogg is getting inducted into the Hall of Fame and they're doing this whole Wrestlemania diary with her. She needs to go over on the big stage. If she doesn't win here, it should definitely be on the Raw after Wrestlemania. Since I'm completely bias and want dreams to come true, I'm rooting for and picking Sasha Banks to win the WWE Divas Title, becoming the 3rd woman to hold both women's titles in NXT and WWE. This is the moment I've been waiting for since she made her debut and it's finally time for Sasha to take the title that is rightfully hers.
Roman Reigns will challenge Triple H for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in the main event of Wrestlemania 32. We all know Roman is going over as Triple H, for the most part, puts over the other guy in the main event. While it's a main event the WWE Universe may not like, it's one that makes too much sense NOT to happen at Wrestlemania. The Shield broke away from the Authoirty with Reigns spearing Triple H during the climax of the Raw following Wrestlemania XXX. Triple H would be instrumental in having Seth Rollins turn his back on The Shield. Reigns would continue to butt heads with The Authority for much of the year, mainly because he was after Rollins and the WWE Title. It all came to a head at Survivor Series where Reigns finally won the title and would again Spear Triple H. Reigns would absolutely destroy Triple H at TLC to critical fanfare and win back the title on the Raw after in Philadelphia, much to the fans' joy. I don't know what happened but the fans turned on Roman again and when he had to defend the title inside the Royal Rumble match, people were heavily against him and gave Triple H a huge pop when he made his surprise entry. They popped even louder when Reigns was eliminated by Triple H. Triple H won the title, Reigns won the #1 contendership and now we're here at this point. The match has been apparently changed to No DQ, which is SHOULD be if Triple H has learned anything about his clash with Orton at WM25. These two just can't have a normal match, especially with Shane/Taker and Ambrose/Lesnar with stipulations on them as well. It just wouldn't make sense and it would put the close to 100,000 fans to sleep. While the match has the potential to be great, I'm sure the fans will crap all over it. Roman Reigns winning the title and ending the show in front of close to 100,000 hostile fans just doesn't seem right does it? Stay with me on this one.
While my prediction is for Reigns to do just that, what if Shane is able to beat Taker and then adds a 3rd man to this match? Yes, they've been doing it for two years but if it ain't broke, don't fix it. If Shane is really about change and pleasing the fans then he would definitely add someone right? And the No DQ stipulation really makes thing more intriguing don't you think? I wouldn't bet my house or any money on it but just watch this match for sure. Something has to be in the works...
There it is! Wrestlemania 32 predictions! Who's ready for a weekend of great wrestling?!?
Thursday, March 31, 2016
NXT Takeover Dallas Predictions
It's the Wrestlemania of NXT events! It's only been 2 years since NXT Arrival first came on the WWE Network and with each following event, the live events have been called Takeover. Each time Takeover comes on, there is a certain buzz surrounding the events, mainly because of the match quality and low frequency of the events. They only happen every quarter basically so when they come on, it's a build that's been brewing for awhile and not something thrown together at the very last moment. Takeover has went up against many WWE PPVs, usually taking place in the same week as some. This time though, it's the lead in for WWE's biggest show of the year, Wrestlemania. Takeover Brooklyn took place the day before SummerSlam and was an amazing event, probably the best Takeover event yet. If they were that good leading into the summer's biggest event (and also at their first show away from Florida mind you) how much better will they be with the biggest show only two days after? Currently, there are 5 matches announced for the show with a 6th that I believe will be announced on the next NXT show. (It was) Let's get right into it!
Shinsuke Nakamura will be making his NXT debut when he faces Sami Zayn in what will probably be his last match with the NXT brand. Zayn will also be apart of the 7 man Ladder match so he's got double duty WM weekend. As with an debut on the NXT roster. the star's job is to make the new talent look as awesome and captivating as possible. I still remember getting goosebumps when Owens made his fantastic debut in 2014. It isn't Zayn's job to get the win here. He doesn't need it. His dream of becoming NXT Champion again is over and now that's he chasing after his friend's Intercontinental Title, there's no real reason to go after the NXT Title. Anyway, this should be an amazing match. I don't know if they two have ever faced one another but Zayn's high flying and never say die attitude will mesh well with the hard hitting style of Nakamura. After a solid 15 minute contest, it will be Nakamura who will get his hand raised high. Nakamura will immediately get pushed to the main event scene as he has an interesting opponent regardless of who wins the NXT Title match. Either he can face Balor, which would be a NJPW dream match or he can face Samoa Joe in what would definitely be the most hard hitting NXT feud of all time. The future is bright!
Apollo Crews will face Elias Sampson. Uh, what? Why? I'm a huge fan of Apollo Crews and I don't understand why he has been put in this position. He should be in the main event. He didn't come to NXT to be an afterthought. Anyway, this should be a good match. I saw them face each at the NXT event in Philadelphia this past February and they definitely had some good in ring chemistry. Sampson isn't bad at all but it's weird that he's one they decided to push with so much great indie talent in their company at this point. Rich Swann, Biff Busick, Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano could all do with being in this position. I don't think Sampson will go over on the big show so I'm going with Crews to win in a 8-10 minute match.
Chad Gable and Jason Jordan will challenge Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder for the NXT Tag Team Titles. This is the best tag team match that NXT has put on paper for their NXT event. American Alpha (Gable and Jordan) have been on a tear of the tag team division. The last time they lost as a team was against Corbin and Rhyno at Takeover Respect. Since then, they've beaten every former NXT Tag Team Champions that are still together. The Ascension, The Lucha Dragons, Blake and Murphy and The Vaudevillians all have fallen in their huge breakout. The Revival have done just what their names claims, revive the NXT tag division. They've been putting on some great matches with Enzo Amore and Colin Cassidy, who should be getting the main roster call-up any day now. They've been a dominant and vicious team, a team unlike any other in NXT history. This match should be a fun war. I'm a huge fan of both but more than anybody, I'm the biggest fan of Jason Jordan. When I first saw NXT in Philly, Jordan was in a squash match against Bull Dempsey, where the crowd called him Jason Jobber. Yes, classy as always Philadelphia. The point I'm trying to make is that I've wanted to see him succeed since then. I know people are more on Gable's bandwagon but don't sleep on Jordan. I'm not saying its a forgone conclusion that American Alpha will walk out iwth the victory but they've been the best team going in NXT and 2nd in WWE after The New Day. Why not give the most popular team the titles? In an amazing tag team war, American Alpha will come out with the much deserved win and with the NXT Tag Team Titles.
Austin Aries will also make his NXT live special debut against a fierce Baron Corbin. Corbin has been open about his hate for indie talent coming in and taking his spot. To combat that, he decided to ruin Aries' big NXT debut by attacking him. I don't know if Corbin is the best first opponent for Aries, but it will still be a good match regardless. Corbin is a great big man with a dominant move set. He's one of my favorite NXT originals and I hope they have big plans for him on the main roster based on his look and work ethic. I don't know how much longer he has in NXT and with it time for NXT call ups to the main roster, who knows? I'd love to see him in the Andre the Giant Battle Royal and win if the whole Strowman push thing is done. If he still has time in NXT, I'd love to see him team with Alex Riley and try to take the Internet darlings. This match though, will belong to Austin Aries as he continues to make make NXT a must watch brand. Aries wins.
In Bayley's toughest title defense to date, she will defend against the NXT Women's Title against Asuka. What better women's match to have on Wrestlemania weekend than this? This match has a main event feel to it as you have Bayley, the last member of the Four Horsewomen who is still in NXT and has carried on the great legacy of the women's division will face Asuka, a dominant, hard hitting and undefeated in competition. It's really a dream match for the division and one that will continue to shape the women in NXT and WWE. Bayley has champion since August and has beaten EVERY challenger that has come her way. Sasha Banks, Alexa Bliss, Eva Marie, Nia Jax and Carmella just to name a few. She's the face of the division. With NXT just being the starting point and not the destination, it may be finally time for Bayley to make her transition to the main roster. It would only make sense as her fellow Four Horsewomen are all waiting and competing for the Divas Title at Wrestlemania. After beating everybody, there's really no one else who could dethrone Bayley but Asuka. It's in my opinion that WWE should start the build to Banks/Bayley on the main roster. You do this by having Bayley drop the title to Asuka here, get her rematch in a Submission match at the next Takeover and have Bayley make her debut on the main roster in May sometime. That would be enough time to build towards the match and have it be in the same arena as their match of the year from last year. Asuka would have plenty of women to feud with and I'm sure a match with Nia Jax will be in the making. Or maybe Bayley will continue to run NXT and teach some of the younger women there for awhile longer. I really don't know...Despite what I said previously, Bayley will retain over Asuka in a bonafide match of the night.
Finn Balor will face Samoa Joe in a rematch from NXT Takeover London. So....why have a rematch on NXT's biggest show of the year? The only reason would be for Balor to finally drop the title to Joe and to make his main roster debut. His former Bullet Club members Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson are set to debut at any time now, apparently on the main roster. They wouldn't debut on the main roster without their main man Balor would they? How could they be the BALOR Club without him? This will be another great match between the two stars but I think the conclusion is already set with plans for the Balor Club already in place. Samoa Joe will be defeat Finn Balor and capture the NXT Championship, making him the first man to have held the ROH, TNA and NXT Titles.
NXT Takeover Dallas will set the pace for the entire weekend for WWE. It will no doubt be a great show and maybe the best NXT Takeover yet, if the card is anything to go off of.
Wrestlemania 32 predictions to follow!!
Shinsuke Nakamura will be making his NXT debut when he faces Sami Zayn in what will probably be his last match with the NXT brand. Zayn will also be apart of the 7 man Ladder match so he's got double duty WM weekend. As with an debut on the NXT roster. the star's job is to make the new talent look as awesome and captivating as possible. I still remember getting goosebumps when Owens made his fantastic debut in 2014. It isn't Zayn's job to get the win here. He doesn't need it. His dream of becoming NXT Champion again is over and now that's he chasing after his friend's Intercontinental Title, there's no real reason to go after the NXT Title. Anyway, this should be an amazing match. I don't know if they two have ever faced one another but Zayn's high flying and never say die attitude will mesh well with the hard hitting style of Nakamura. After a solid 15 minute contest, it will be Nakamura who will get his hand raised high. Nakamura will immediately get pushed to the main event scene as he has an interesting opponent regardless of who wins the NXT Title match. Either he can face Balor, which would be a NJPW dream match or he can face Samoa Joe in what would definitely be the most hard hitting NXT feud of all time. The future is bright!
Apollo Crews will face Elias Sampson. Uh, what? Why? I'm a huge fan of Apollo Crews and I don't understand why he has been put in this position. He should be in the main event. He didn't come to NXT to be an afterthought. Anyway, this should be a good match. I saw them face each at the NXT event in Philadelphia this past February and they definitely had some good in ring chemistry. Sampson isn't bad at all but it's weird that he's one they decided to push with so much great indie talent in their company at this point. Rich Swann, Biff Busick, Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano could all do with being in this position. I don't think Sampson will go over on the big show so I'm going with Crews to win in a 8-10 minute match.
Chad Gable and Jason Jordan will challenge Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder for the NXT Tag Team Titles. This is the best tag team match that NXT has put on paper for their NXT event. American Alpha (Gable and Jordan) have been on a tear of the tag team division. The last time they lost as a team was against Corbin and Rhyno at Takeover Respect. Since then, they've beaten every former NXT Tag Team Champions that are still together. The Ascension, The Lucha Dragons, Blake and Murphy and The Vaudevillians all have fallen in their huge breakout. The Revival have done just what their names claims, revive the NXT tag division. They've been putting on some great matches with Enzo Amore and Colin Cassidy, who should be getting the main roster call-up any day now. They've been a dominant and vicious team, a team unlike any other in NXT history. This match should be a fun war. I'm a huge fan of both but more than anybody, I'm the biggest fan of Jason Jordan. When I first saw NXT in Philly, Jordan was in a squash match against Bull Dempsey, where the crowd called him Jason Jobber. Yes, classy as always Philadelphia. The point I'm trying to make is that I've wanted to see him succeed since then. I know people are more on Gable's bandwagon but don't sleep on Jordan. I'm not saying its a forgone conclusion that American Alpha will walk out iwth the victory but they've been the best team going in NXT and 2nd in WWE after The New Day. Why not give the most popular team the titles? In an amazing tag team war, American Alpha will come out with the much deserved win and with the NXT Tag Team Titles.
Austin Aries will also make his NXT live special debut against a fierce Baron Corbin. Corbin has been open about his hate for indie talent coming in and taking his spot. To combat that, he decided to ruin Aries' big NXT debut by attacking him. I don't know if Corbin is the best first opponent for Aries, but it will still be a good match regardless. Corbin is a great big man with a dominant move set. He's one of my favorite NXT originals and I hope they have big plans for him on the main roster based on his look and work ethic. I don't know how much longer he has in NXT and with it time for NXT call ups to the main roster, who knows? I'd love to see him in the Andre the Giant Battle Royal and win if the whole Strowman push thing is done. If he still has time in NXT, I'd love to see him team with Alex Riley and try to take the Internet darlings. This match though, will belong to Austin Aries as he continues to make make NXT a must watch brand. Aries wins.
In Bayley's toughest title defense to date, she will defend against the NXT Women's Title against Asuka. What better women's match to have on Wrestlemania weekend than this? This match has a main event feel to it as you have Bayley, the last member of the Four Horsewomen who is still in NXT and has carried on the great legacy of the women's division will face Asuka, a dominant, hard hitting and undefeated in competition. It's really a dream match for the division and one that will continue to shape the women in NXT and WWE. Bayley has champion since August and has beaten EVERY challenger that has come her way. Sasha Banks, Alexa Bliss, Eva Marie, Nia Jax and Carmella just to name a few. She's the face of the division. With NXT just being the starting point and not the destination, it may be finally time for Bayley to make her transition to the main roster. It would only make sense as her fellow Four Horsewomen are all waiting and competing for the Divas Title at Wrestlemania. After beating everybody, there's really no one else who could dethrone Bayley but Asuka. It's in my opinion that WWE should start the build to Banks/Bayley on the main roster. You do this by having Bayley drop the title to Asuka here, get her rematch in a Submission match at the next Takeover and have Bayley make her debut on the main roster in May sometime. That would be enough time to build towards the match and have it be in the same arena as their match of the year from last year. Asuka would have plenty of women to feud with and I'm sure a match with Nia Jax will be in the making. Or maybe Bayley will continue to run NXT and teach some of the younger women there for awhile longer. I really don't know...Despite what I said previously, Bayley will retain over Asuka in a bonafide match of the night.
Finn Balor will face Samoa Joe in a rematch from NXT Takeover London. So....why have a rematch on NXT's biggest show of the year? The only reason would be for Balor to finally drop the title to Joe and to make his main roster debut. His former Bullet Club members Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson are set to debut at any time now, apparently on the main roster. They wouldn't debut on the main roster without their main man Balor would they? How could they be the BALOR Club without him? This will be another great match between the two stars but I think the conclusion is already set with plans for the Balor Club already in place. Samoa Joe will be defeat Finn Balor and capture the NXT Championship, making him the first man to have held the ROH, TNA and NXT Titles.
NXT Takeover Dallas will set the pace for the entire weekend for WWE. It will no doubt be a great show and maybe the best NXT Takeover yet, if the card is anything to go off of.
Wrestlemania 32 predictions to follow!!
Friday, March 25, 2016
Top Five Favorite Wrestlemanias
As we get ready for the greatest WWE weekend of the year, I thought I would look back at all the great Wrestlemanias in the past and rank which were my favorite. I was going to originally do 10 but I think 5 will suffice for this quick post. Now, I've only seen LIVE Wrestlemania 15, 2000, 18-31. I've watched WM 14 and 17 shortly after they aired but for the earlier events, I've only seen the main matches, like Wrestlemania's 5 clash with Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan or Wrestlemania 13's classic double turn I Quit match. I can't fully judge their cards so it's only down to 14-31. I apologize if one of your favorite shows is from one of the original 13. Without further ado, let's talk!
I'm judging this on match card from top to bottom, favorite moments and how it holds up in 2016. I think for me a lot of the older ones would be disqualified solely on the last fact but regardless, let's start the list!
5. Wrestlemania 21 - We start this list with one of the last Wrestlemanias to be held in an arena, Wrestlemania 21! WM21 took place on April 3rd, 2005 in the Staples center and featured a great card. Eddie Guerrero VS Rey Mysterio would start off their almost YEAR long feud and was solid show opener here. It wasn't there best match but it was still something to watch. Money in the Bank made its debut with Christian, Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, Kane, Edge and Shelton Benjamin all competing for a contact at a World Title match anytime they wanted. This was a match filled with so many great talents who hadn't gotten the spotlight or have been out of it. Edge, Christian and Benjamin were all guys who never held World Titles yet so they were willing to do what it took to get the opportunity. Jericho and Kane had their reigns but haven't been champion in a long time while Benoit was in the main event from the previous year's WM and wanted to return to there someday. What came about was one of the finest ladder matches in Wrestlemania history and is still in my opinion the best Money in the Bank match they have ever put on. Edge would win and use the MITB briefcase to strengthen his already Hall of Fame career. Randy Orton tried to end the Undertaker's Streak a full 9 years before it actually ended in an entertaining match-up. This was the first match where Taker's WM opponent was going solely after The Streak and would start up some of the best matches of Undertaker's career and also starting up another long feud of 2005. And it would show one of the greatest counters in Wrestlemania history. Taker would go for a Chokeslam, only to have Orton counter into a RKO. Amazing! Orton had a breakout performance here in his 1st Wrestlemania singles match but wasn't able to get the win.
The match of the night was the first ever meeting between Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle, which if I have to go into detail why that is amazing then why are you reading this post? Angle wanted to show the world he was better than Michaels and how HBK stole Angle's glory in 1996. Angle won a Gold Medal with a broken freaking neck while HBK won his first WWE Title in an Ironman match at Wrestlemania XII. In one of the best Wrestlemania matches ever, (maybe another list?) Kurt Angle trapped HBK in the Ankle Lock for what seemed like an eternity, only for HBK to finally tap out. The two would end up splitting the rivalry 1-1-1 in 2005 but it all started in their classic match.
More than anything else, this event is remembered as the night John Cena and Batista both broke out by winning their brand's respective World Titles. John Cena ended John Bradshaw Layfield's 280 day reign while Batista became the Man on Raw by pinning Triple H in the main event. Both of those guys won the titles on the same night and lost them around the same time as well. They were the two biggest stars since the Attitude Era and they both shared their moment on the same night. We know how the story goes from here and it would launch Batista to super stardom while it propelled Cena to being the face of the company, a fact Batista would not ignore and brought up during their build for their Wrestlemania match 5 years later.
Wrestlemania 21 was a show that set up the next generation. Look at how many guys had strong performances here. John Cena, Batista, Edge and Randy Orton made it clear that while the old guard was still about but it would one day be their turns. Those four guys share a combined total of 44 World Title reigns from 2004-2014. That's a ridiculous number of reigns! It just goes to show you how important this show was and also why it's one of my favorites. Matches were great but the long lasting effects are still felt today. Fantastic show!
4. Wrestlemania 31 -Yes, this is not a typo. Last year's Wrestlemania was one for the ages. Taking place on March 29th, 2015 from Levi's Stadium, WM31 was a show featuring the younger talent taking on the veterans of the company. Matches like Seth Rollins VS Randy Orton, John Cena VS Rusev, The Undertaker VS Bray Wyatt and Roman Reigns VS Brock Lesnar all prove that point. Three of the matches had the youth talent taking on the Class of 2002. You know, the year all the big stars debuted? John Cena, Batista, Brock Lesnar and Randy Orton. It's like WWE tried to mimic what they did 10 years earlier at Wrestlemania 21. The show started off though with a frantic Ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship. While there were a lot of great mid card stars here, there was one that stood out from the rest of the bunch, that being Daniel Bryan, who was in the main event of Wrestlemania XXX. Bryan inclusion was done so that he could win and begin elevating the title and put it back on the right path of relevancy. He did win in an awesome ladder match but due to injuries, WWE's plan didn't work to well. It looks like this will be the new tradition as Wrestlemania 32 is doing the same. I just wish the match had more time. Rollins fought Orton next in a great one on one match. Rollins was involved in the last two Wrestlemanias but was involved in 6 man tag matches so this was his big singles debut. He put up a great fight but was quelled by Orton and ANOTHER fantastic Wrestlemania RKO. As Rollins was going for his Curb Stomp finisher, Orton stood up, forcing Rollins high into the air and Orton caught him with the RKO. Spectacular!
Next was Sting's first ever WWE match against Triple H. Heading into the match, I wasn't excited for the match at all as Sting is up there in age. Triple H came out in one of the best Wrestlemania entrances ever and proceeded to have a great WM match with Sting, one that called back to the Monday Night Wars. During the match, both DX and the NWO got involved as members from both groups made their way down to the ring to help their respective company's star. We even got to see Shawn Michaels deliver Sweet Chin Music to Sting! Unreal. In a shocking move, Triple H hit Sting with his signature Sledgehammer and got the pinfall victory over Sting. What? How does one defeat an Icon in their first match in the company? Still not sure but with the win, Triple H defeated WCW as he was able to defeat ANY star that came over that was a former WCW Champion. The two shook hands after the match. It exceeded every expectation I had and turned into one of the best matches of the night. The Divas didn't get any time of exposure because they didn't have Nikki defend the title so what we got was a boring tag match that was AJ's last Wrestlemania match. No surprise there! Cena was up next as he faced Rusev for the United States Championship in another move to make the title important again. He already took the loss to Rusev at Fast Lane so we all knew Super Cena was winning here. It wasn't a bad match, just one that we all saw coming a mile away. Cena won and began to make the title important again by defending it every week against random challengers and by having meaningful feuds for the title. It was the start to one of the best things about WWE in 2015. Bray Wyatt got The Undertaker in his first match since losing at WM30. Even though the stars were all aligned for an Undertaker loss, it was Bray Wyatt who got the loss in a solid one on one match. Undertaker proved he still was raring to go with his 22nd Wrestlemania victory.
In the controversial and much fan hated main event, 2015 Royal Rumble winner Roman Reigns fought defending kidnapper, I mean, champion, Brock Lesnar. This was a fight. A true war between the two as Reigns took everything Lesnar had. Reigns would be hit with FOUR DIFFERENT F-5s here. As both men were down and Brock Lesnar was bleeding, Seth Rollins' music blasted through the stadium to massive fanfare as he was cashing in his Money in the Bank contract, which was a first in the 10 year history of the contract. It only took about 40 seconds after the bell rang for Rollins to make history as the first heel to win and WALK OUT WWE Champion in the main event. Once again, sorry Yokozuna. Hulk Hogan had other plans. It's one of the greatest moments in the now 32 year history of the event.
Wrestlemania 31 proved that if enough thought and planning that WWE can produce a really good PG Wrestlemania. Yes, there are moments I wished had been different, like the Divas match and Bray Wyatt's loss but it was still one of my favorites regardless of those two things. WWE has done very well with the first two Wrestlemanias in the 30s, here's hoping they continue the trend.
3. Wrestlemania X-Seven - Called by many as the greatest Wrestlemania of all time, Wrestlemania X-7 took place on April 1st, 2001 in Houston, Texas in the Astro Dome. Not only is it cited as one of the greatest ever, it's also cited as the end of the Attitude Era but more on that later. I'm certainly one of the people who says this is the greatest Wrestlemania WWE has ever done but this list is not about the greatest, but my FAVORITE. Still, it was a great show even though it ranks as #3. Stand out moments include the great technical match between Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle, the hardcore war between Raven/Big Show/Kane and Shane McMahon's coast to coast on his own father! This event also featured TLC 2, which was the return match from SummerSlam 2000, which featured Edge and Christian, The Dudleys and The Hardy Boys. Simply put, it's the best ladder match in WWE history and it features the greatest bump of all time. Don't even try to argue with me on this one. Jeff Hardy was dangling from the titles in the middle of the ring after Bubba Ray Dudley pulled a Ladder from underneath him. Edge was waiting on the other side of the ring with a ladder and proceeded to jump off, Spearing Jeff Hardy all the way to the ring. It's one of the most frightening and amazing things I've ever seen in my entire life.
Edge and Christian won AGAIN as they won at Wrestlemania 2000 and at the aforementioned SummerSlam 2000, solidifying their status as the greatest tag team in the WWE. After this, The Undertaker and Triple H would start their trilogy of matches at Wrestlemania in a hard fought war that gave Undertaker his 9th win at the Show of Shows. Though the card was stacked from top to bottom, all eyes were on the main event featuring the two biggest superstars in the company.
The video package, which is the best WWE has every put together by the way, really told the story here. Austin, who was out with a neck injury that sidelined him for over a year, came back, won the Rumble and wanted to reclaim his spot at all costs. He would not be denied his championship. The Rock just wasn't going to give him the title as he was the one who was carrying the company in his absence. It was a great story between the top two dogs. The match was made to be a No Disqualifications match at the last minute, which added even more to the story. This one match featured everything we all loved from the Attitude Era; violence, mega stars and controversy. The two hit each other with all they had, used weapons and were bleeding. The end came when Vince came out and handed Austin a chair, which he then used to beat the living hell out of The Rock. It would get the job done as Austin would win one of his last WWE Titles and then would shake hands with his arch-nemesis Vince McMahon in one of the most surreal WWE moments every. Imagine, two guys who hated each other and made each other's lives a living hell for three years became friends. It was that signal alone that showed you the Attitude Era was finished, especially with WWE purchasing WCW the week of the show. The Attitude Era really started to compete with WCW and the NWO so it was a fitting end.
Wrestlemania 17 was a show that captured everything people loved about the Attitude Era in one amazing night of competition. It had everything really but the sex that everyone loved so much. It's kind of great how it all came together in the end and it's definitely the best show WWE has ever produced.
2. Wrestlemania 22 - No one really talks about this show but it's easily one of the better Wrestlemanias put on without the need of part timers. Wrestlemania 22 took place on April 2nd, 2006 in the Allstate Arena and is the last Wrestlemania to take place inside a small arena, as from 23 onward, Wrestlemania has been reserved for football stadiums to pack more fans inside. 22 was a great show and has one of the most infamous bumps in Wrestlemania history. Money in the Bank made its return after the success of the match from WM21 and it featured Ric Flar, Finlay, Matt Hardy, Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley and Rob Van Dam. RVD was the favorite as he was probably the most deserving person in the match who had never won a World Title. Although RVD won, Shelton Benjamin stole the match with all his moves and athletic feats. Benjamin holds the title of being the most deserving superstar to never win the Money in the Bank briefcase now. It was a fantastic match with death defying moves but like many of the MITBs to come, it ended a little too fast for my tastes but with a card of 11 matches, I understand.
The match of the night was the hardcore war between Edge and Mick Foley. Edge wanted revenge on Foley, who he felt cost Edge his chance of walking into Wrestlemania as WWE Champion. Every time I see this match, I wonder why they didn't do Orton and Foley's Hardcore match at Wrestlemania XX for the IC Title. Anyway, this match here was exactly what it needed to. It not only provided the fans with an entertaining match but it helped push Edge along as a serious main event player. There was barbed wire, chairs, Barbie and of course, thumbtacks, which went directly into Edge's back! The match was definitely brutal but the way it ended was just savage. They had a table set outside the ring for most of the match, which Lita eventually lit ON FIRE and then Edge would proceed to SPEAR Mick Foley through the flames and wood. Seriously, Edge was fearless in that ring!
Edge got the victory and would eventually win the WWE Title a couple months later. Foley did his job and effectively pushed Edge to the next level. Next up is the women's match to beat at a Wrestlemania. Trish Stratus, who was the Women's Champion for about 14 months at that point, faced off against her demented fan Mickie James. Trish and Mickie were having this idol/stalker thing going on and it finally came to blows after Trish kept denying Mickie's advances to her. Yes, this was all for a Women's Title match. Once they got into the ring, people were actually booing Trish, probably because they were tired of seeing her with the title. Mickie James came in with a game plan and worked Trish's leg, which she used in part with how she won the match. Trish was coming at Mickie as Mickie was grounded but she was playing possum and Mickie kicked the bad leg out and had her knee ready for Trish's face as she fell. After a botched Stratusfaction by Mickie James, Mickie gave Trish a swift Chick Kick to the head for the three count and Women's Title. It was a match filled with wrestling moves, near falls and upskirts. It's a fantastic example of a women's match done right and definitely a bright spot on the whole card. The Undertaker defended his Streak in a forgettable Casket Match against Mark Henry but after this match, each and every one of The Undertaker's matches at Wrestlemania were must see.
Shawn Michaels faced Vince McMahon in a Street Fight, which saw HBK kick the crap out of his boss. HBK displayed a lot of emotion that we weren't used to from 2002 return Shawn Michaels. In particular, there must have been some hecklers in the front row as you can see HBK verbally having it out with them. Despite interference from Shane McMahon and The Spirit Squad, HBK was able to get revenge on McMahon from all the embarrassment in the months leading up to Mania. HBK also did some DX crotch chops, teasing some type of DX reunion, which would of course happen during the summer months. His massive elbow drop to McMahon through the table was spectacular and was a nice way for HBK to prevail. Great payoff match from a great overall story. Rey Mysterio also won the World Title, honoring his late friend Eddie Guerrero. It was an emotional moment and the feel good moment of the night.
In the main event, John Cena, making his Wrestlemania main event debut, battled Triple H. Triple H ran Raw from 2002-2004 with Evolution, keeping a strong grasp on the World Title. Once Batista took over and beat him three times, Triple H took time off. During this period, Cena and Batista switched shows due to the draft and Cena became the face of Raw while HHH was away. It was finally time for Triple H to retake Raw from Cena right? That's what all the fans thought, including me. Cena and Triple H had a great main event and Cena was booed heavily by the Chicago crowd. He was booed so hard that Triple H had no choice but to play to the crowd. He even did his own DX crotch chop as well for good measure. In one of the more shocking Wrestlemania moments, Cena locked HHH in the STFU and forced The Game to tap in the main event. This would be HHH's 3rd STRAIGHT Wrestlemania main event loss. Many fans were surprised by the finish, just look at their faces at the end of the match. This match was done to solely push Cena and to continue to ascend him to the top of the roster. Why don't they do that with stars now huh? Anyway, Cena won the hard fought match, much to the chagrin of the crowd.
Wrestlemania 22 is severely underrated and overlooked. It had a solid card and the main matches delivered on the big stage. There's a lot of fluff on the show as well but it doesn't hold back the overall greatness of the show. When I re-watch Wrestlemanias, this is one of my favorites to see, simply because of the card. Add the fact that's it's the last Mania in a smaller arena with an electric crowd and you have my 2nd favorite Wrestlemania.
1. Wrestlemania XIX - This is easily my favorite Wrestlemania of all time. What's not to like about this show? It had everything a fan needed! It took place on March 30th, 2003 in Safeco Field in Seattle. It was one of the first Wrestlemanias to use larger stages, like football and baseball stadiums, to increase fan turnout. I don't want to say XIX had the perfect card but it had an amazing action packed card that didn't disappoint. It started off strong with Rey Mysterio challenging Matt Hardy for the Crusierweight Title in Mysterio's debut at the show. It was a quick match to wet the fan's appetite for what was to come. Undertaker improved his Streak to 11-0 while Trish Stratus would win another Women's Title at the big event. Team Angle made a successful debut as well as they defended their tag titles in a Triple Threat match. After that match, there were consistent main events matches that delivered on all fronts.
Shawn Michaels VS Chris Jericho was a match pitting two like styles together. Even during the build, Jericho said he was always referred to as the next Shawn Michaels but considered it an insult now as he was trying to be the very first Chris Jericho. It was a simple premise that was executed perfectly. This was a wrestling match with close calls, submissions, and even Jericho pulling out old Sweet Chin Music on HBK. That was a nice touch on the match. They had a great match, which saw HBK win by roll-up. Jericho didn't need the win; he just needed to look like a star and thanks to HBK, he certainly did.
Triple H defended his World Title against former WCW Champion Booker T in a great match. Back and forth action here and a classic heel Triple H retained in a nice match-up. This was Triple H in the midst of destroying all the main eventers from WCW that came over to WWE. Next was the war between Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan. Though both men were obviously up there in age, they put on an amazing street fight that others should look as the blueprint for the match. Both guys were bloody and went all out for the match. McMahon's leg drop to Hogan through the announce table is a spot that a 60 year old man shouldn't be doing BUT it was awesome to see! Roddy Piper being added to the match was a nice flashback and even better to see him try and screw Hogan but, this is Hulk Hogan we're talking about here and Lord forbid if he actually loses. After Hogan beat Vince with three consecutive Leg Drops, Shane McMahon come down to retrieve what was left of his dad. I thought that this was going to lead to something at WM20 but it never did. Ah well. Next up was the 3rd Wrestlemania encounter between Stone Cold and The Rock. Austin won the last two matches and it was eating Rock up inside, which led to this match. Great video package and build for the match. The match itself was great, going back to their two past matches at the show. I always love a good finisher steal and they both did just that here. In the end, it took three Rock Bottoms to put Austin away for good as he exercised his demon by winning here. After the match, you can see the two exchanging words with one another and it was later revealed that The Rock told Austin he loved him. Such a class act. The two knew this would be their last match against one another and got to share a personal moment while over 50,000 people watched. Truly electrifying.
I'm judging this on match card from top to bottom, favorite moments and how it holds up in 2016. I think for me a lot of the older ones would be disqualified solely on the last fact but regardless, let's start the list!
5. Wrestlemania 21 - We start this list with one of the last Wrestlemanias to be held in an arena, Wrestlemania 21! WM21 took place on April 3rd, 2005 in the Staples center and featured a great card. Eddie Guerrero VS Rey Mysterio would start off their almost YEAR long feud and was solid show opener here. It wasn't there best match but it was still something to watch. Money in the Bank made its debut with Christian, Chris Benoit, Chris Jericho, Kane, Edge and Shelton Benjamin all competing for a contact at a World Title match anytime they wanted. This was a match filled with so many great talents who hadn't gotten the spotlight or have been out of it. Edge, Christian and Benjamin were all guys who never held World Titles yet so they were willing to do what it took to get the opportunity. Jericho and Kane had their reigns but haven't been champion in a long time while Benoit was in the main event from the previous year's WM and wanted to return to there someday. What came about was one of the finest ladder matches in Wrestlemania history and is still in my opinion the best Money in the Bank match they have ever put on. Edge would win and use the MITB briefcase to strengthen his already Hall of Fame career. Randy Orton tried to end the Undertaker's Streak a full 9 years before it actually ended in an entertaining match-up. This was the first match where Taker's WM opponent was going solely after The Streak and would start up some of the best matches of Undertaker's career and also starting up another long feud of 2005. And it would show one of the greatest counters in Wrestlemania history. Taker would go for a Chokeslam, only to have Orton counter into a RKO. Amazing! Orton had a breakout performance here in his 1st Wrestlemania singles match but wasn't able to get the win.
The match of the night was the first ever meeting between Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle, which if I have to go into detail why that is amazing then why are you reading this post? Angle wanted to show the world he was better than Michaels and how HBK stole Angle's glory in 1996. Angle won a Gold Medal with a broken freaking neck while HBK won his first WWE Title in an Ironman match at Wrestlemania XII. In one of the best Wrestlemania matches ever, (maybe another list?) Kurt Angle trapped HBK in the Ankle Lock for what seemed like an eternity, only for HBK to finally tap out. The two would end up splitting the rivalry 1-1-1 in 2005 but it all started in their classic match.
More than anything else, this event is remembered as the night John Cena and Batista both broke out by winning their brand's respective World Titles. John Cena ended John Bradshaw Layfield's 280 day reign while Batista became the Man on Raw by pinning Triple H in the main event. Both of those guys won the titles on the same night and lost them around the same time as well. They were the two biggest stars since the Attitude Era and they both shared their moment on the same night. We know how the story goes from here and it would launch Batista to super stardom while it propelled Cena to being the face of the company, a fact Batista would not ignore and brought up during their build for their Wrestlemania match 5 years later.
Wrestlemania 21 was a show that set up the next generation. Look at how many guys had strong performances here. John Cena, Batista, Edge and Randy Orton made it clear that while the old guard was still about but it would one day be their turns. Those four guys share a combined total of 44 World Title reigns from 2004-2014. That's a ridiculous number of reigns! It just goes to show you how important this show was and also why it's one of my favorites. Matches were great but the long lasting effects are still felt today. Fantastic show!
4. Wrestlemania 31 -Yes, this is not a typo. Last year's Wrestlemania was one for the ages. Taking place on March 29th, 2015 from Levi's Stadium, WM31 was a show featuring the younger talent taking on the veterans of the company. Matches like Seth Rollins VS Randy Orton, John Cena VS Rusev, The Undertaker VS Bray Wyatt and Roman Reigns VS Brock Lesnar all prove that point. Three of the matches had the youth talent taking on the Class of 2002. You know, the year all the big stars debuted? John Cena, Batista, Brock Lesnar and Randy Orton. It's like WWE tried to mimic what they did 10 years earlier at Wrestlemania 21. The show started off though with a frantic Ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship. While there were a lot of great mid card stars here, there was one that stood out from the rest of the bunch, that being Daniel Bryan, who was in the main event of Wrestlemania XXX. Bryan inclusion was done so that he could win and begin elevating the title and put it back on the right path of relevancy. He did win in an awesome ladder match but due to injuries, WWE's plan didn't work to well. It looks like this will be the new tradition as Wrestlemania 32 is doing the same. I just wish the match had more time. Rollins fought Orton next in a great one on one match. Rollins was involved in the last two Wrestlemanias but was involved in 6 man tag matches so this was his big singles debut. He put up a great fight but was quelled by Orton and ANOTHER fantastic Wrestlemania RKO. As Rollins was going for his Curb Stomp finisher, Orton stood up, forcing Rollins high into the air and Orton caught him with the RKO. Spectacular!
Next was Sting's first ever WWE match against Triple H. Heading into the match, I wasn't excited for the match at all as Sting is up there in age. Triple H came out in one of the best Wrestlemania entrances ever and proceeded to have a great WM match with Sting, one that called back to the Monday Night Wars. During the match, both DX and the NWO got involved as members from both groups made their way down to the ring to help their respective company's star. We even got to see Shawn Michaels deliver Sweet Chin Music to Sting! Unreal. In a shocking move, Triple H hit Sting with his signature Sledgehammer and got the pinfall victory over Sting. What? How does one defeat an Icon in their first match in the company? Still not sure but with the win, Triple H defeated WCW as he was able to defeat ANY star that came over that was a former WCW Champion. The two shook hands after the match. It exceeded every expectation I had and turned into one of the best matches of the night. The Divas didn't get any time of exposure because they didn't have Nikki defend the title so what we got was a boring tag match that was AJ's last Wrestlemania match. No surprise there! Cena was up next as he faced Rusev for the United States Championship in another move to make the title important again. He already took the loss to Rusev at Fast Lane so we all knew Super Cena was winning here. It wasn't a bad match, just one that we all saw coming a mile away. Cena won and began to make the title important again by defending it every week against random challengers and by having meaningful feuds for the title. It was the start to one of the best things about WWE in 2015. Bray Wyatt got The Undertaker in his first match since losing at WM30. Even though the stars were all aligned for an Undertaker loss, it was Bray Wyatt who got the loss in a solid one on one match. Undertaker proved he still was raring to go with his 22nd Wrestlemania victory.
In the controversial and much fan hated main event, 2015 Royal Rumble winner Roman Reigns fought defending kidnapper, I mean, champion, Brock Lesnar. This was a fight. A true war between the two as Reigns took everything Lesnar had. Reigns would be hit with FOUR DIFFERENT F-5s here. As both men were down and Brock Lesnar was bleeding, Seth Rollins' music blasted through the stadium to massive fanfare as he was cashing in his Money in the Bank contract, which was a first in the 10 year history of the contract. It only took about 40 seconds after the bell rang for Rollins to make history as the first heel to win and WALK OUT WWE Champion in the main event. Once again, sorry Yokozuna. Hulk Hogan had other plans. It's one of the greatest moments in the now 32 year history of the event.
Wrestlemania 31 proved that if enough thought and planning that WWE can produce a really good PG Wrestlemania. Yes, there are moments I wished had been different, like the Divas match and Bray Wyatt's loss but it was still one of my favorites regardless of those two things. WWE has done very well with the first two Wrestlemanias in the 30s, here's hoping they continue the trend.
3. Wrestlemania X-Seven - Called by many as the greatest Wrestlemania of all time, Wrestlemania X-7 took place on April 1st, 2001 in Houston, Texas in the Astro Dome. Not only is it cited as one of the greatest ever, it's also cited as the end of the Attitude Era but more on that later. I'm certainly one of the people who says this is the greatest Wrestlemania WWE has ever done but this list is not about the greatest, but my FAVORITE. Still, it was a great show even though it ranks as #3. Stand out moments include the great technical match between Chris Benoit and Kurt Angle, the hardcore war between Raven/Big Show/Kane and Shane McMahon's coast to coast on his own father! This event also featured TLC 2, which was the return match from SummerSlam 2000, which featured Edge and Christian, The Dudleys and The Hardy Boys. Simply put, it's the best ladder match in WWE history and it features the greatest bump of all time. Don't even try to argue with me on this one. Jeff Hardy was dangling from the titles in the middle of the ring after Bubba Ray Dudley pulled a Ladder from underneath him. Edge was waiting on the other side of the ring with a ladder and proceeded to jump off, Spearing Jeff Hardy all the way to the ring. It's one of the most frightening and amazing things I've ever seen in my entire life.
Edge and Christian won AGAIN as they won at Wrestlemania 2000 and at the aforementioned SummerSlam 2000, solidifying their status as the greatest tag team in the WWE. After this, The Undertaker and Triple H would start their trilogy of matches at Wrestlemania in a hard fought war that gave Undertaker his 9th win at the Show of Shows. Though the card was stacked from top to bottom, all eyes were on the main event featuring the two biggest superstars in the company.
The video package, which is the best WWE has every put together by the way, really told the story here. Austin, who was out with a neck injury that sidelined him for over a year, came back, won the Rumble and wanted to reclaim his spot at all costs. He would not be denied his championship. The Rock just wasn't going to give him the title as he was the one who was carrying the company in his absence. It was a great story between the top two dogs. The match was made to be a No Disqualifications match at the last minute, which added even more to the story. This one match featured everything we all loved from the Attitude Era; violence, mega stars and controversy. The two hit each other with all they had, used weapons and were bleeding. The end came when Vince came out and handed Austin a chair, which he then used to beat the living hell out of The Rock. It would get the job done as Austin would win one of his last WWE Titles and then would shake hands with his arch-nemesis Vince McMahon in one of the most surreal WWE moments every. Imagine, two guys who hated each other and made each other's lives a living hell for three years became friends. It was that signal alone that showed you the Attitude Era was finished, especially with WWE purchasing WCW the week of the show. The Attitude Era really started to compete with WCW and the NWO so it was a fitting end.
Wrestlemania 17 was a show that captured everything people loved about the Attitude Era in one amazing night of competition. It had everything really but the sex that everyone loved so much. It's kind of great how it all came together in the end and it's definitely the best show WWE has ever produced.
2. Wrestlemania 22 - No one really talks about this show but it's easily one of the better Wrestlemanias put on without the need of part timers. Wrestlemania 22 took place on April 2nd, 2006 in the Allstate Arena and is the last Wrestlemania to take place inside a small arena, as from 23 onward, Wrestlemania has been reserved for football stadiums to pack more fans inside. 22 was a great show and has one of the most infamous bumps in Wrestlemania history. Money in the Bank made its return after the success of the match from WM21 and it featured Ric Flar, Finlay, Matt Hardy, Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley and Rob Van Dam. RVD was the favorite as he was probably the most deserving person in the match who had never won a World Title. Although RVD won, Shelton Benjamin stole the match with all his moves and athletic feats. Benjamin holds the title of being the most deserving superstar to never win the Money in the Bank briefcase now. It was a fantastic match with death defying moves but like many of the MITBs to come, it ended a little too fast for my tastes but with a card of 11 matches, I understand.
The match of the night was the hardcore war between Edge and Mick Foley. Edge wanted revenge on Foley, who he felt cost Edge his chance of walking into Wrestlemania as WWE Champion. Every time I see this match, I wonder why they didn't do Orton and Foley's Hardcore match at Wrestlemania XX for the IC Title. Anyway, this match here was exactly what it needed to. It not only provided the fans with an entertaining match but it helped push Edge along as a serious main event player. There was barbed wire, chairs, Barbie and of course, thumbtacks, which went directly into Edge's back! The match was definitely brutal but the way it ended was just savage. They had a table set outside the ring for most of the match, which Lita eventually lit ON FIRE and then Edge would proceed to SPEAR Mick Foley through the flames and wood. Seriously, Edge was fearless in that ring!
Edge got the victory and would eventually win the WWE Title a couple months later. Foley did his job and effectively pushed Edge to the next level. Next up is the women's match to beat at a Wrestlemania. Trish Stratus, who was the Women's Champion for about 14 months at that point, faced off against her demented fan Mickie James. Trish and Mickie were having this idol/stalker thing going on and it finally came to blows after Trish kept denying Mickie's advances to her. Yes, this was all for a Women's Title match. Once they got into the ring, people were actually booing Trish, probably because they were tired of seeing her with the title. Mickie James came in with a game plan and worked Trish's leg, which she used in part with how she won the match. Trish was coming at Mickie as Mickie was grounded but she was playing possum and Mickie kicked the bad leg out and had her knee ready for Trish's face as she fell. After a botched Stratusfaction by Mickie James, Mickie gave Trish a swift Chick Kick to the head for the three count and Women's Title. It was a match filled with wrestling moves, near falls and upskirts. It's a fantastic example of a women's match done right and definitely a bright spot on the whole card. The Undertaker defended his Streak in a forgettable Casket Match against Mark Henry but after this match, each and every one of The Undertaker's matches at Wrestlemania were must see.
Shawn Michaels faced Vince McMahon in a Street Fight, which saw HBK kick the crap out of his boss. HBK displayed a lot of emotion that we weren't used to from 2002 return Shawn Michaels. In particular, there must have been some hecklers in the front row as you can see HBK verbally having it out with them. Despite interference from Shane McMahon and The Spirit Squad, HBK was able to get revenge on McMahon from all the embarrassment in the months leading up to Mania. HBK also did some DX crotch chops, teasing some type of DX reunion, which would of course happen during the summer months. His massive elbow drop to McMahon through the table was spectacular and was a nice way for HBK to prevail. Great payoff match from a great overall story. Rey Mysterio also won the World Title, honoring his late friend Eddie Guerrero. It was an emotional moment and the feel good moment of the night.
In the main event, John Cena, making his Wrestlemania main event debut, battled Triple H. Triple H ran Raw from 2002-2004 with Evolution, keeping a strong grasp on the World Title. Once Batista took over and beat him three times, Triple H took time off. During this period, Cena and Batista switched shows due to the draft and Cena became the face of Raw while HHH was away. It was finally time for Triple H to retake Raw from Cena right? That's what all the fans thought, including me. Cena and Triple H had a great main event and Cena was booed heavily by the Chicago crowd. He was booed so hard that Triple H had no choice but to play to the crowd. He even did his own DX crotch chop as well for good measure. In one of the more shocking Wrestlemania moments, Cena locked HHH in the STFU and forced The Game to tap in the main event. This would be HHH's 3rd STRAIGHT Wrestlemania main event loss. Many fans were surprised by the finish, just look at their faces at the end of the match. This match was done to solely push Cena and to continue to ascend him to the top of the roster. Why don't they do that with stars now huh? Anyway, Cena won the hard fought match, much to the chagrin of the crowd.
Wrestlemania 22 is severely underrated and overlooked. It had a solid card and the main matches delivered on the big stage. There's a lot of fluff on the show as well but it doesn't hold back the overall greatness of the show. When I re-watch Wrestlemanias, this is one of my favorites to see, simply because of the card. Add the fact that's it's the last Mania in a smaller arena with an electric crowd and you have my 2nd favorite Wrestlemania.
1. Wrestlemania XIX - This is easily my favorite Wrestlemania of all time. What's not to like about this show? It had everything a fan needed! It took place on March 30th, 2003 in Safeco Field in Seattle. It was one of the first Wrestlemanias to use larger stages, like football and baseball stadiums, to increase fan turnout. I don't want to say XIX had the perfect card but it had an amazing action packed card that didn't disappoint. It started off strong with Rey Mysterio challenging Matt Hardy for the Crusierweight Title in Mysterio's debut at the show. It was a quick match to wet the fan's appetite for what was to come. Undertaker improved his Streak to 11-0 while Trish Stratus would win another Women's Title at the big event. Team Angle made a successful debut as well as they defended their tag titles in a Triple Threat match. After that match, there were consistent main events matches that delivered on all fronts.
Shawn Michaels VS Chris Jericho was a match pitting two like styles together. Even during the build, Jericho said he was always referred to as the next Shawn Michaels but considered it an insult now as he was trying to be the very first Chris Jericho. It was a simple premise that was executed perfectly. This was a wrestling match with close calls, submissions, and even Jericho pulling out old Sweet Chin Music on HBK. That was a nice touch on the match. They had a great match, which saw HBK win by roll-up. Jericho didn't need the win; he just needed to look like a star and thanks to HBK, he certainly did.
Triple H defended his World Title against former WCW Champion Booker T in a great match. Back and forth action here and a classic heel Triple H retained in a nice match-up. This was Triple H in the midst of destroying all the main eventers from WCW that came over to WWE. Next was the war between Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan. Though both men were obviously up there in age, they put on an amazing street fight that others should look as the blueprint for the match. Both guys were bloody and went all out for the match. McMahon's leg drop to Hogan through the announce table is a spot that a 60 year old man shouldn't be doing BUT it was awesome to see! Roddy Piper being added to the match was a nice flashback and even better to see him try and screw Hogan but, this is Hulk Hogan we're talking about here and Lord forbid if he actually loses. After Hogan beat Vince with three consecutive Leg Drops, Shane McMahon come down to retrieve what was left of his dad. I thought that this was going to lead to something at WM20 but it never did. Ah well. Next up was the 3rd Wrestlemania encounter between Stone Cold and The Rock. Austin won the last two matches and it was eating Rock up inside, which led to this match. Great video package and build for the match. The match itself was great, going back to their two past matches at the show. I always love a good finisher steal and they both did just that here. In the end, it took three Rock Bottoms to put Austin away for good as he exercised his demon by winning here. After the match, you can see the two exchanging words with one another and it was later revealed that The Rock told Austin he loved him. Such a class act. The two knew this would be their last match against one another and got to share a personal moment while over 50,000 people watched. Truly electrifying.
The main event featured Kurt Angle defending the WWE Title against Brock Lesnar. This was the first main event of Wrestlemania to feature two guys who used their real names! Weird right? Anyway, this match had a lot to follow but it handled the pressure well and turned up being a fantastic main event. We all know the real highlight of the match though. Brock had Angle beat after hitting the 2ND F-5 but Brock didn't cover. He went to the top rope and performed a Shooting Star Press. His landing was horrible as he landed on his forehead. I don't know how he didn't die that night but Lesnar was able to bounce back, hit another F-5 and win his 2ND WWE Title. Angle showed respect after the match and genuine concern as Brock held up his title in front of the crowd. You could tell by his eyes that he wasn't there, same with Miz at 27. Thankfully, his return came very soon.
Wrestlemania XIX had everything I need in a wrestling event. There has never been a Wrestlemania with so many matches that deserved to be match of the night than at 19 and that alone should speak volumes why it's my favorite of all time. If you haven't seen it, watch it immediately. It's the blueprint for all Wrestlemanias and it truly captured the magical feeling that is Wrestlemania. It's an instant classic.
Well, there's another list! What do you think? What's your favorite Wrestlemania? Let me know! We are extremely close to the Show of Shows; will Wrestlemania 32 be able to crack my list?
Well, there's another list! What do you think? What's your favorite Wrestlemania? Let me know! We are extremely close to the Show of Shows; will Wrestlemania 32 be able to crack my list?
Friday, March 18, 2016
Pros/Cons of The Divas Title Triple Threat
OK, let me just say that I cannot wait until this match finally happens! Charlotte will defend her Divas Title against Sasha Banks and Becky Lynch. This is basically the dream here for WWE fans. The Divas Revolution may have fizzled out but these three never did and now, they will showcase their talents on the main roster, in front of the largest WWE crowd ever. Let's talk!
PROS
1. IT MAKES SENSE
The so called Divas Revolution was a call to arms by Stephanie McMahon, who wanted to put more focus on the women of WWE just as the whole world were looking at just what women could do. She did this by giving Paige backup against the villainous Team Bella. Her help was NXT's own Charlotte and Becky Lynch, making a whole team of submission specialists from the great brand. Naomi and Tamina wanted in as well and Stephanie gave them then NXT Women's Champion Sasha Banks. A brawl came about after this which ended after Banks, Charlotte and Becky locked in their respective submissions on the members of Team Bella. Fast forward 8 months later and those three are the focus of the division. They all came in together, they're all rivals and friends, it only makes sense to put all three together for one amazing match in their Wrestlemania debuts.
2. The Match Itself
If I'm to go off of what I've seen the ladies do in NXT, then this match could be something really special. Sasha/Charlotte for Takeover R Evolution changed how I viewed women's matches forever and then Sasha/Becky for Takeover Unstoppable raised the bar even higher in their instant classic. If you go off what they can do in singles matches, it has to make for one hell of a Triple Threat right? Plus, it's WRESTLEMANIA! A first for all three ladies. Charlotte and Banks were apart of Triple H's entrance at WM30 but this will be their first time competing at the event. I'd really like to see this match open Wrestlemania and get it off on the right foot, that is if they don't do another multi-man IC Title match. Regardless of match position, it's going to be spectacular!
3. NXT Represented
These three ladies are apart of the brand's true success. They've all grown into their own and all have a legitimate claim to be Divas Champion. Sasha and Charlotte both had great reigns as NXT Women's Champion, defeating all who came in their way. Becky doesn't have that accolade, but she's just as talented and proficient in the ring as the other two. This shows that if the girls do well and end up being one of the best matches of the night, that the next group of girls can do the same thing. The three best NXT Women (excluding Paige and Bayley) colliding in one match means NXT works.
4. Banks could become champion!
There's something deep inside me that knows Sasha isn't going to win, mainly because of the triple threat rules but there is a chance that my favorite women's wrestler could walk out with the title of her division! That alone makes this match a must watch for me!
5. Hope for the Division
I touched on it in 3 but this match really represents the future of the women's division on the main roster. This will open up the floodgates, just like it did in NXT. The women won't just be given the main events and more TV time, they will take it. If this match goes well, you'll see more Divas matches, more high profile Diva feuds and maybe even a main event or two on a Raw or Smackdown near you. This is THE match of the division. Whatever you do, don't miss it!
CONS
1. Banks/Charlotte one on one is still a dream
Don't you think it's a bit strange that Sasha Banks and Charlotte have not yet ONCE had a match on the main roster together? The only match they had was on an episode of Main Event but that was back in 2014 and they weren't even on the main roster yet. Sasha/Charlotte was a feud of legend in NXT, where each match would be better than the next. They main evented the first live show from Philadelphia. THAT'S INSANE, yet they haven't cashed in on this golden calf yet. With it being Wrestlemania, why not have the big first time one on one match there? It looked like it was going in that direction but for whatever reason, Becky was added to the match. This isn't a bad thing, it's just something that I would have personally wanted to see more.
2. Bayley on the Outside looking in
So, you know Sasha, Becky and Charlotte are often called the Four Horsewomen on NXT right? Their 4th member, Bayley, is still in NXT, carrying the banner for the women's division down there. While Bayley already has big plans that weekend, it's kind of sad how she's the last remaining Horsewoman in NXT. Bayley will have to watch from the sidelines until it's her shot on the main roster. Poor Bayley...
So, you know Sasha, Becky and Charlotte are often called the Four Horsewomen on NXT right? Their 4th member, Bayley, is still in NXT, carrying the banner for the women's division down there. While Bayley already has big plans that weekend, it's kind of sad how she's the last remaining Horsewoman in NXT. Bayley will have to watch from the sidelines until it's her shot on the main roster. Poor Bayley...
3. Fear of Not Getting Enough Time
The absolute worse thing that could happen would be to not give the match the time it deserves. With it being Wrestlemania and on the main roster, I really think they're only going to give the ladies like 9 minutes to showcase themselves. It better not happen because the Triple Threat is actually one of the main events for this year's show if you look at the card. If WWE wants to make sure the women of their company get the respect they deserve, then they need to cut some of Rock's sure to be pointless promo or whatever the hell he's doing and put a good chunk of time into this match. There's no reason that the Divas can't take over a half hour of TV time, from the promo, the entrances and the match. Don't screw over the fans WWE.
Like I said, I'm generally excited about this match. I attribute the women of NXT for being one of the sole reasons why I watch the brand. I remember watching the very first NXT Takeover, with Charlotte winning the NXT Women's Title in a fantastic match against Natayla and immediately thinking, maybe all hope isn't lost for the division. I'm a huge fan of all three ladies and this should be one for the ages, just as long as WWE sets enough time aside for them. As far as the winner goes, I can't see anyone but Charlotte winning. She has the lineage to back her up and this is her FIRST Wrestlemania as a competitor. Surely Ric Flair's daughter can't lose in her Wrestlemania debut? I'm obviously on Team Sasha but it really doesn't matter who wins, just as long as they're given time to show the world that women's wrestling can be just as important as men's wrestling. THIS is a Wrestlemania match. It has the build, the players and my attention. This isn't a match that was thrown together at the very last minute because the other option wasn't there, this was a match that was carefully planned. WWE has done such a great job, starting slowly with Paige/Charlotte, moving to Becky/Charlotte and will eventually get their to golden goose in Sasha/Charlotte. Then, if WWE is smart, they'll call up Bayley and start the road to Bayley/Sasha on the main roster. How awesome would it be to see the two square off at SummerSlam 2016 in the SAME building where they had their match of the year in 2015? It would be truly poetic.
Simply put, this match represents the future of the women's division on the WWE main roster. It will either be a fantastic showing that we all know it can be or it will be the horrible piss break women's match WWE has been known for for the past decade. And don't forget, WWE will be competing with NXT this Wrestlemania weekend and NXT's Women title match looks absolutely amazing with Bayley defending against Asuka. I don't think WWE wants to be upstaged by their smaller brand do they?
Next up, a lunatic versus a beast!
The absolute worse thing that could happen would be to not give the match the time it deserves. With it being Wrestlemania and on the main roster, I really think they're only going to give the ladies like 9 minutes to showcase themselves. It better not happen because the Triple Threat is actually one of the main events for this year's show if you look at the card. If WWE wants to make sure the women of their company get the respect they deserve, then they need to cut some of Rock's sure to be pointless promo or whatever the hell he's doing and put a good chunk of time into this match. There's no reason that the Divas can't take over a half hour of TV time, from the promo, the entrances and the match. Don't screw over the fans WWE.
Like I said, I'm generally excited about this match. I attribute the women of NXT for being one of the sole reasons why I watch the brand. I remember watching the very first NXT Takeover, with Charlotte winning the NXT Women's Title in a fantastic match against Natayla and immediately thinking, maybe all hope isn't lost for the division. I'm a huge fan of all three ladies and this should be one for the ages, just as long as WWE sets enough time aside for them. As far as the winner goes, I can't see anyone but Charlotte winning. She has the lineage to back her up and this is her FIRST Wrestlemania as a competitor. Surely Ric Flair's daughter can't lose in her Wrestlemania debut? I'm obviously on Team Sasha but it really doesn't matter who wins, just as long as they're given time to show the world that women's wrestling can be just as important as men's wrestling. THIS is a Wrestlemania match. It has the build, the players and my attention. This isn't a match that was thrown together at the very last minute because the other option wasn't there, this was a match that was carefully planned. WWE has done such a great job, starting slowly with Paige/Charlotte, moving to Becky/Charlotte and will eventually get their to golden goose in Sasha/Charlotte. Then, if WWE is smart, they'll call up Bayley and start the road to Bayley/Sasha on the main roster. How awesome would it be to see the two square off at SummerSlam 2016 in the SAME building where they had their match of the year in 2015? It would be truly poetic.
Simply put, this match represents the future of the women's division on the WWE main roster. It will either be a fantastic showing that we all know it can be or it will be the horrible piss break women's match WWE has been known for for the past decade. And don't forget, WWE will be competing with NXT this Wrestlemania weekend and NXT's Women title match looks absolutely amazing with Bayley defending against Asuka. I don't think WWE wants to be upstaged by their smaller brand do they?
Next up, a lunatic versus a beast!
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
What Have I Done
Well, this will be the first video game post of 2016. I'm sorry for the readers who like games, I've just been too involved with wrestling to do an actual post on anything else. That changes today! Recently, I finally purchased a gaming capable laptop. It's not anything real special but it will run games that I wasn't able to play previously. Obviously, the main reason I did this was to play many of the Steam games that I've been missing out on. I had Steam on my old laptop but I wasn't really able to enjoy it due to the limitations. I played Fist Puncher, Rouge Legacy and the game that defined my Steam experience, The Binding of Issac. I remember playing that entire day before I got engaged. They rogue-like features and fun and challenging gameplay kept me coming back for more. I eventually bought it again on my Vita to play on the go. While I was able to beat Rouge Legacy, the game was so slow on my corny little laptop and it eventually gave out last year. I finally bit the bullet and bought a budget gaming laptop last week for a little under $500. I couldn't be happier with the purchase.
I immediately got Steam again and starting to look through the many recommendations that I had. The last game I bought was Valdis Story and that didn't run to well on the old laptop either. That was in 2012? I got about 12 games and dropped $110 on them. I've since spent more money for other games and I now have a grand total of 23 GAMES. Yes, 23 games. I'm an addict and I need help. I've played bits and pieces of each of the games, except one because I'm too much of a chump, and here's some of the few that stand out.
Evoland is an interesting adventure game. It's basically a celebration of adventure games for the past 30 years.You start off as pixels and continue to go through various forms of gaming. You go through 2D, 3D, RPG, it's all very interesting and very well done. There's humor done in all of it as well and it's a fun game. There's apparently a sequel so once I get through it, I'm definitely on board to play through a second entry.
Exile's End is a fantastic action adventure game. The description says the game is not based on any Metroidvania style gameplay, but it really does have a lot in common with Metroid more than anything else. Story is basic, you're trapped on a planet and are trying to find your way off of it. It's nothing new in terms of gameplay but it has the winning formula for me and that makes it addicting. I don't know what it is about these types of games that I like but I enjoy having to trek all over to find new items to open my path. Anyway, great game!
Dex is another Metroidvania-esque game set in cyberpunk backdrop. It's very similar to Exile's End in terms of gameplay but I love the hand to hand combat in it. There's something that's so satisfying about beating up someone with the character's bare hands. It's so visceral and amazing in this game. There's also going to be gunplay as well but I haven't made it that far just yet to experience that. It's another keeper for my library!
Oceanhorn is probably my 2nd favorite game that I bought. I got it apart of a Humble Bundle and only paid $8 for it and a couple other games I haven't played but I mainly did it to get this. It was described as a Zelda game so I instantly found a way to purchase it. You know how I feel about my Zelda. Yeah, it's definitely heavily influenced by the series. It has a Wind Waker vibe to it, mainly because you sail from island to island when you travel. The gameplay is similar to A Link Between Worlds. You fight monsters with your sword and shield, solve puzzles, blow things up with bombs, it's everything that has made Zelda a fan favorite series in the past 30 years. I got about a good 2 hours in of this game and it's definitely looking like it will only get better as time continues on. While it may have taken just a few too many pages from Zelda's book, it's still an amazing adventure in its own right. Think of it like Zelda's biggest fan.
The best game I've played on Steam? Odallus: The Dark Call. This game is a love letter to all fans of the classic Castlevania format and not much to the newer model of gameplay that Symphony of the Night brought about. It features 2D graphics that fit right onto a Super Nintendo and the challenging gameplay to boot. The game also features multiple paths and there's plenty of backtracking to be done as there are places you can't access your first time through. Like on the first level, there are these very heavy blocks that the protagonist can't move just yet. Once you advance onto a further level, you find these gauntlets which will then allow you to push the blocks. I got a heart piece for going back to push the block but this definitely isn't a requirement to finish the game. The boss battles are fun and frantic and everything about the game just screams Castlevania. It's actually the best Castlevania game to be releases since the DS Metroidvania games. (Portrait of Ruin was my jam!) If you have any love for the amazing series that is Castlevania, you owe it to yourself to check this game out. Also, get Oniken from the same people who did Odallus. If you like your games like the old NES style, with look and difficulty, you won't find a better tribute than Oniken.
There are plenty others but these are just some that I've been playing the most. I also bought and love Grim Dawn, Momodora III and They Bleed Pixels but haven't played them too much. This purchase has been the best decision I've made this year. So many games that will never get beaten but I will definitely try my best to get through as many as possible.
I'll keep you updated!
I immediately got Steam again and starting to look through the many recommendations that I had. The last game I bought was Valdis Story and that didn't run to well on the old laptop either. That was in 2012? I got about 12 games and dropped $110 on them. I've since spent more money for other games and I now have a grand total of 23 GAMES. Yes, 23 games. I'm an addict and I need help. I've played bits and pieces of each of the games, except one because I'm too much of a chump, and here's some of the few that stand out.
Evoland is an interesting adventure game. It's basically a celebration of adventure games for the past 30 years.You start off as pixels and continue to go through various forms of gaming. You go through 2D, 3D, RPG, it's all very interesting and very well done. There's humor done in all of it as well and it's a fun game. There's apparently a sequel so once I get through it, I'm definitely on board to play through a second entry.
Exile's End is a fantastic action adventure game. The description says the game is not based on any Metroidvania style gameplay, but it really does have a lot in common with Metroid more than anything else. Story is basic, you're trapped on a planet and are trying to find your way off of it. It's nothing new in terms of gameplay but it has the winning formula for me and that makes it addicting. I don't know what it is about these types of games that I like but I enjoy having to trek all over to find new items to open my path. Anyway, great game!
Dex is another Metroidvania-esque game set in cyberpunk backdrop. It's very similar to Exile's End in terms of gameplay but I love the hand to hand combat in it. There's something that's so satisfying about beating up someone with the character's bare hands. It's so visceral and amazing in this game. There's also going to be gunplay as well but I haven't made it that far just yet to experience that. It's another keeper for my library!
Oceanhorn is probably my 2nd favorite game that I bought. I got it apart of a Humble Bundle and only paid $8 for it and a couple other games I haven't played but I mainly did it to get this. It was described as a Zelda game so I instantly found a way to purchase it. You know how I feel about my Zelda. Yeah, it's definitely heavily influenced by the series. It has a Wind Waker vibe to it, mainly because you sail from island to island when you travel. The gameplay is similar to A Link Between Worlds. You fight monsters with your sword and shield, solve puzzles, blow things up with bombs, it's everything that has made Zelda a fan favorite series in the past 30 years. I got about a good 2 hours in of this game and it's definitely looking like it will only get better as time continues on. While it may have taken just a few too many pages from Zelda's book, it's still an amazing adventure in its own right. Think of it like Zelda's biggest fan.
The best game I've played on Steam? Odallus: The Dark Call. This game is a love letter to all fans of the classic Castlevania format and not much to the newer model of gameplay that Symphony of the Night brought about. It features 2D graphics that fit right onto a Super Nintendo and the challenging gameplay to boot. The game also features multiple paths and there's plenty of backtracking to be done as there are places you can't access your first time through. Like on the first level, there are these very heavy blocks that the protagonist can't move just yet. Once you advance onto a further level, you find these gauntlets which will then allow you to push the blocks. I got a heart piece for going back to push the block but this definitely isn't a requirement to finish the game. The boss battles are fun and frantic and everything about the game just screams Castlevania. It's actually the best Castlevania game to be releases since the DS Metroidvania games. (Portrait of Ruin was my jam!) If you have any love for the amazing series that is Castlevania, you owe it to yourself to check this game out. Also, get Oniken from the same people who did Odallus. If you like your games like the old NES style, with look and difficulty, you won't find a better tribute than Oniken.
There are plenty others but these are just some that I've been playing the most. I also bought and love Grim Dawn, Momodora III and They Bleed Pixels but haven't played them too much. This purchase has been the best decision I've made this year. So many games that will never get beaten but I will definitely try my best to get through as many as possible.
I'll keep you updated!
Friday, March 11, 2016
Pros/Cons of Shane McMahon/Undertaker
There were MANY choices for The Undertaker's opponent at Wrestlemania 32. John Cena, until he got injured, Sheamus and Kevin Owens all could have gotten the chance to face Taker at the big event. They didn't though and completely and seemly out of nowhere, WWE announces The Undertaker would face Shane McMahon for the control of Raw inside Hell in a Cell. I'm sorry, what? Who? Why??? Booking wise, it's one of the most bizarre main event matches in WWE but let's weigh the good and the bad!
PROS
1. Genuine Shock Factor
By a show of hands, who thought this was going to be the match for The Undertaker? OK, put your hands down. There was no one who could have predicted this and in a time when there are plenty of leaks and no more secrets in professional wrestling, this match is a breath of fresh air in that department. Sometimes, the great thing about professional wrestling is not knowing and if we were going just solely based on that, then this is a major positive for the match. While I'll talk my displeasure down in the cons, this is definitely something different for the big show of Wrestlemania.
2. Stipulation
There are two major stipulations for this match that sets it apart. One, it's going to be contested inside Hell in a Cell. Now, WWE has a PPV exclusive for the Hell in a Cell, so it's rare when the match takes place outside the month of October now. Last time it happened was four years ago at Wrestlemania 28. Since the match is known for its cruelty and brutality, it's something to get excited about. The other stipulation says that if Shane McMahon can defeat The Undertaker, he will then take control of Raw, which in turn means he'll run the WWE. This could be seen as a good sign for wrestling fans, as many have thought that Vince hasn't had his pulse on what wrestling fans have wanted. Only thing is, that only affects the storyline, not backstage politics. It would be nice to see what things they'll allow with Shane in control. These two things along make you want to watch the match.
3. One to Watch
While Shane McMahon in not a trained wrestler like some of the other guys on the roster, he's put on better matches than a lot of guys in locker room. He's had hardcore wars with Big Show, Kane and many others. His resume alone should prove his worth and why you'd want to see him compete. This match will be something to watch. This is what wrestling is all about. Intrigue, storyline and payoff. We'll see the payoff on April 3rd.
CONS
1. Better Options for Taker
On paper, in the year 2016, with Undertaker is in his 50s and Shane McMahon not having wrestled a match in over 5 years, this looks like a bad idea. I'm sorry for everyone who wants to really see this match and are looking forward to it, let's just face reality; there are SO many other guys way more deserving to face The Undertaker at the big event. Sheamus was just WWE Champion in November and aligned himself with The Authority and Triple H. He's since fallen from grace since then but why not give Sheamus the opportunity at challenging Taker? It would have been a competitive match that would have helped Sheamus look strong in defeat. Nope, Sheamus is now lost in the field now. John Cena was the obvious and right choice for this year's Mania, but he got injured unfortunately. I still think he could have pushed a bit harder but I guess age is catching up to Cena and he couldn't make one of his usual Superman recoveries.
I think the biggest omission was of Kevin Owens. Owens, a guy who was immediately given John Cena to feud with when he came to main roster. Owens, a guy who beat Cena CLEAN in their first ever match together. Owens is currently holding onto this thing called the Intercontinental Championship. I don't know if anyone knows or not but in his 26 year career in WWE, The Undertaker has NEVER EVER won that title. So, why not have the two clash at Wrestlemania and give Taker the one title he's never won, especially since he's at the tail end of his career? It would have given Owens something big to do and put a lot of exposure on the IC Title, which they've been trying to build up since last Wrestlemania (and failed might I add). I think with Cena out, Kevin Owens VS The Undertaker would have been the money match for not only the fans but for the WWE in general as they try to build start as more and more of their big stars prepare to retire. Bottom line, Shane McMahon, who was not even around in WWE for so long gets the honor of facing The Undertaker at Wrestlemania? It's crazy.
2. No Sense or Real Build
I understand the storyline with the McMahon family and everything, I got that, but where did all this come from? I'm the type of guy who likes his matches built up. I'm used to seeing the matches built up near the Royal Rumble and around that time. At least the main event matches. For this match to just randomly come about for no other reason but some kind of secret that we don't know about doesn't make sense. It's intriguing but this is Wrestlemania and this is The Undertaker. He deserves to have a proper match, especially with him almost retiring. He shouldn't be used as a weapon in a family dispute. It's dumb.
3. The Disbelief of It
The Undertaker has defeated Jake Roberts, Kane twice, Triple H thrice, Shawn Michaels twice, Randy Orton, Batista, Mark Henry, Edge and CM Punk at Wrestlemania. Am I really suppose to believe that Shane McMahon, the son of the Chairman of WWE, really has a REAL shot to defeat The Undertaker at Wrestlemania and give him his 2nd loss at the big event? Yes, this is a scripted form of entertainment but even in that, my mind will not allow me to suspend belief that far. Look at that list! All those guys I named are Hall of Famers, three guys who have already been inducted. In what world am I to believe that Shane stands any chance? As a fan, I know you all want to believe because it could mean Shane in charge and a better program but COME ON! Shane McMahon beating The Undertaker at Wrestlemania means that he joins Brock Lesnar as the two men to defeat Taker at Wrestlemania. 22-2? Hell no! It would be a spit in the face of everyone who he beat, especially Bray Wyatt, who should have defeated Taker at WM31. Why would you have Shane beat Taker over a guy like Wyatt, who's going to be around in WWE for awhile? Shane defeating The Undertaker just doesn't make sense and it would make The Undertaker look incredibility weak and human, two traits not associated with his character.
Shane McMahon VS The Undertaker has all the potential to be one of the most spectacular and awe inspiring matches at Wrestlemania but it's also a match that I'll always look back and wonder, why Shane? That is, unless something magical and amazing happens that only could have been possible with Shane. I'm going into this match with an open mind, mainly because Sting and Triple H had such an exciting match last year and I was very down on that. I'm looking forward to seeing what WWE has in store for the fans with this match.
Next, up, it's my most anticipated Wrestlemania match!
PROS
1. Genuine Shock Factor
By a show of hands, who thought this was going to be the match for The Undertaker? OK, put your hands down. There was no one who could have predicted this and in a time when there are plenty of leaks and no more secrets in professional wrestling, this match is a breath of fresh air in that department. Sometimes, the great thing about professional wrestling is not knowing and if we were going just solely based on that, then this is a major positive for the match. While I'll talk my displeasure down in the cons, this is definitely something different for the big show of Wrestlemania.
2. Stipulation
There are two major stipulations for this match that sets it apart. One, it's going to be contested inside Hell in a Cell. Now, WWE has a PPV exclusive for the Hell in a Cell, so it's rare when the match takes place outside the month of October now. Last time it happened was four years ago at Wrestlemania 28. Since the match is known for its cruelty and brutality, it's something to get excited about. The other stipulation says that if Shane McMahon can defeat The Undertaker, he will then take control of Raw, which in turn means he'll run the WWE. This could be seen as a good sign for wrestling fans, as many have thought that Vince hasn't had his pulse on what wrestling fans have wanted. Only thing is, that only affects the storyline, not backstage politics. It would be nice to see what things they'll allow with Shane in control. These two things along make you want to watch the match.
3. One to Watch
While Shane McMahon in not a trained wrestler like some of the other guys on the roster, he's put on better matches than a lot of guys in locker room. He's had hardcore wars with Big Show, Kane and many others. His resume alone should prove his worth and why you'd want to see him compete. This match will be something to watch. This is what wrestling is all about. Intrigue, storyline and payoff. We'll see the payoff on April 3rd.
CONS
1. Better Options for Taker
On paper, in the year 2016, with Undertaker is in his 50s and Shane McMahon not having wrestled a match in over 5 years, this looks like a bad idea. I'm sorry for everyone who wants to really see this match and are looking forward to it, let's just face reality; there are SO many other guys way more deserving to face The Undertaker at the big event. Sheamus was just WWE Champion in November and aligned himself with The Authority and Triple H. He's since fallen from grace since then but why not give Sheamus the opportunity at challenging Taker? It would have been a competitive match that would have helped Sheamus look strong in defeat. Nope, Sheamus is now lost in the field now. John Cena was the obvious and right choice for this year's Mania, but he got injured unfortunately. I still think he could have pushed a bit harder but I guess age is catching up to Cena and he couldn't make one of his usual Superman recoveries.
I think the biggest omission was of Kevin Owens. Owens, a guy who was immediately given John Cena to feud with when he came to main roster. Owens, a guy who beat Cena CLEAN in their first ever match together. Owens is currently holding onto this thing called the Intercontinental Championship. I don't know if anyone knows or not but in his 26 year career in WWE, The Undertaker has NEVER EVER won that title. So, why not have the two clash at Wrestlemania and give Taker the one title he's never won, especially since he's at the tail end of his career? It would have given Owens something big to do and put a lot of exposure on the IC Title, which they've been trying to build up since last Wrestlemania (and failed might I add). I think with Cena out, Kevin Owens VS The Undertaker would have been the money match for not only the fans but for the WWE in general as they try to build start as more and more of their big stars prepare to retire. Bottom line, Shane McMahon, who was not even around in WWE for so long gets the honor of facing The Undertaker at Wrestlemania? It's crazy.
2. No Sense or Real Build
I understand the storyline with the McMahon family and everything, I got that, but where did all this come from? I'm the type of guy who likes his matches built up. I'm used to seeing the matches built up near the Royal Rumble and around that time. At least the main event matches. For this match to just randomly come about for no other reason but some kind of secret that we don't know about doesn't make sense. It's intriguing but this is Wrestlemania and this is The Undertaker. He deserves to have a proper match, especially with him almost retiring. He shouldn't be used as a weapon in a family dispute. It's dumb.
3. The Disbelief of It
The Undertaker has defeated Jake Roberts, Kane twice, Triple H thrice, Shawn Michaels twice, Randy Orton, Batista, Mark Henry, Edge and CM Punk at Wrestlemania. Am I really suppose to believe that Shane McMahon, the son of the Chairman of WWE, really has a REAL shot to defeat The Undertaker at Wrestlemania and give him his 2nd loss at the big event? Yes, this is a scripted form of entertainment but even in that, my mind will not allow me to suspend belief that far. Look at that list! All those guys I named are Hall of Famers, three guys who have already been inducted. In what world am I to believe that Shane stands any chance? As a fan, I know you all want to believe because it could mean Shane in charge and a better program but COME ON! Shane McMahon beating The Undertaker at Wrestlemania means that he joins Brock Lesnar as the two men to defeat Taker at Wrestlemania. 22-2? Hell no! It would be a spit in the face of everyone who he beat, especially Bray Wyatt, who should have defeated Taker at WM31. Why would you have Shane beat Taker over a guy like Wyatt, who's going to be around in WWE for awhile? Shane defeating The Undertaker just doesn't make sense and it would make The Undertaker look incredibility weak and human, two traits not associated with his character.
Shane McMahon VS The Undertaker has all the potential to be one of the most spectacular and awe inspiring matches at Wrestlemania but it's also a match that I'll always look back and wonder, why Shane? That is, unless something magical and amazing happens that only could have been possible with Shane. I'm going into this match with an open mind, mainly because Sting and Triple H had such an exciting match last year and I was very down on that. I'm looking forward to seeing what WWE has in store for the fans with this match.
Next, up, it's my most anticipated Wrestlemania match!
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Pros/Cons of Roman Reigns VS Triple H
It's that time of the year again! Wrestlemania is right around the corner so it's only right that I start my pro/con lists for the top matches! Currently, the main event of the show is scheduled to be Triple H defending his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Roman Reigns. Let's get right to it!
PROS
1. Long time coming
Roman Reigns VS Triple H has been brewing for about two years now, ever since Reigns speared Triple H on the Raw after Wrestlemania 30. There were rumors for years that the two were going to clash at a big WWE PPV, mostly saying it would happen at a SummerSlam. It never came about. With Reigns feuding with the Authority during the fall of 2015, it looked likely to finally happen. When Reigns speared Triple H after winning the WWE Title at Survivor Series, I thought about the match. When he destroyed HHH at TLC, it was a must. Once Triple H's music hit at the Royal Rumble, we all knew it was the definite way to go. It's a match that has been booked to make storyline sense. Whether it will be a good match doesn't matter at this point, it just makes good long term planning wise, which is a really big thing for me.
2. The best match WWE can offer
WWE has a slew of injuries right now. Tyson Kidd, Cesaro, Randy Orton, Seth Rollins and John Cena are all slated to miss this year's Mania. With that amount of talent out for the Show of Shows, there's not a lot of options that WWE can go. With what they have available, this is the best option for a main event of their biggest show. It's their longest feud with the star they want at the top versus one of the best in the business. WWE could have done worse!
3. Reigns definitely going over
The whole point of this match is to push Reigns as the top star. If these injures have proven anything, it's that WWE is lacking in that department. Having to rely on part timers for another year at Wrestlemania is getting old and there needs to be something done about it. The only way for the youth to reach that next level is by winning at top events. Say what you will about Triple H burying talent, he usually puts the guy over at the big show. Excluding Booker T, Chris Jericho, Sheamus and Randy Orton, he gets the talent over. For three straight Wrestlemanias, he lost in the main event to the guy needing the popularity. Benoit, Batista and Cena all flourished from beating The Game at Wrestlemania. While he may get them at other events, he usually gets them over in the main event and after what happened to Reigns last year, it's definitely needed for him. Reigns needs to win in the main event of Wrestlemania this year, there is no other option.
CONS
1. Severe fan backlash
What is it and WWE not clicking with what the fans want in Wrestlemania main events? For the last two years, WWE has put on their main event, matches that if happened the way they had planned, would have caused WWE to lose more fans than it brought in. WWE saved themselves with Daniel Bryan at 30 and Seth Rollins at 31. This year, there's no outside person who can save the show day of. If Triple H is to defeat Dean Ambrose at Roadblock, then there's no Plan B. Either Triple H has to win or Reigns has to win. Triple H, though the heel, is going to get a MASSIVE reaction in front of what could be the biggest WWE crowd in history while Reigns, LIKE LAST YEAR, will be met with heavy booing. HEAVY. Like, 80000 people all booing. It's going to be bad for them. Reigns, for whatever reason, isn't clicking with the WWE Universe. Should they give up? No, but there needs to be some serious changes to the Reigns character for the fans to get onboard with him. Currently, they are not and if this is there true main event, then look out WWE. Reigns is going to get higher boos than Cena ever got at Wrestlemania.
2. Predictable ending
Now, anything is certainly possible in WWE and like last year, just because we see what WWE is doing and we think we know everything, surprises can happen, but currently, this match has an ending everyone can see from a mile away. Roman Reigns will finally get his revenge on Triple H and The Authority by winning the title from the COO himself and truly start the Roman Empire. it's the fairytale ending that like I said, 80,000+ will not approve of. It's an ending that's needed to push Reigns but it's one that doesn't deviate from the norm.
3. SEVERE FAN BACKLASH
I cannot be more clear that WWE is digging their own grave. This ending, this match, will NOT go as planned if it stays this course. WWE fans were behind Reigns when he was kicking Triple H's ass but since then, it's been generic as generic can get with Reigns. Smile, make jokes, overcome the odds that he faces. He shows more traits of John Cena than of Stone Cold, which they're obviously trying to emulate. If they really want Reigns to get over and be more like Stone Cold, he needs to be beating up his bosses more instead of talking. They have three weeks to make Reigns into an ass kicker. If they don't expect hell WWE.
Roman Reigns VS Triple H is NOT a bad main event. In fact, I LOVE it. Triple H realizes that the only way they're going to truly get Reigns over is by having himself put him over. That's truly noble of Triple H but maybe they should have either done it sooner or continued the Roman Reigns of December 2015. This can all change if Ambrose wins the WWE Title Saturday....
Next up, it's the most random Wrestlemania main event in history!
PROS
1. Long time coming
Roman Reigns VS Triple H has been brewing for about two years now, ever since Reigns speared Triple H on the Raw after Wrestlemania 30. There were rumors for years that the two were going to clash at a big WWE PPV, mostly saying it would happen at a SummerSlam. It never came about. With Reigns feuding with the Authority during the fall of 2015, it looked likely to finally happen. When Reigns speared Triple H after winning the WWE Title at Survivor Series, I thought about the match. When he destroyed HHH at TLC, it was a must. Once Triple H's music hit at the Royal Rumble, we all knew it was the definite way to go. It's a match that has been booked to make storyline sense. Whether it will be a good match doesn't matter at this point, it just makes good long term planning wise, which is a really big thing for me.
2. The best match WWE can offer
WWE has a slew of injuries right now. Tyson Kidd, Cesaro, Randy Orton, Seth Rollins and John Cena are all slated to miss this year's Mania. With that amount of talent out for the Show of Shows, there's not a lot of options that WWE can go. With what they have available, this is the best option for a main event of their biggest show. It's their longest feud with the star they want at the top versus one of the best in the business. WWE could have done worse!
3. Reigns definitely going over
The whole point of this match is to push Reigns as the top star. If these injures have proven anything, it's that WWE is lacking in that department. Having to rely on part timers for another year at Wrestlemania is getting old and there needs to be something done about it. The only way for the youth to reach that next level is by winning at top events. Say what you will about Triple H burying talent, he usually puts the guy over at the big show. Excluding Booker T, Chris Jericho, Sheamus and Randy Orton, he gets the talent over. For three straight Wrestlemanias, he lost in the main event to the guy needing the popularity. Benoit, Batista and Cena all flourished from beating The Game at Wrestlemania. While he may get them at other events, he usually gets them over in the main event and after what happened to Reigns last year, it's definitely needed for him. Reigns needs to win in the main event of Wrestlemania this year, there is no other option.
CONS
1. Severe fan backlash
What is it and WWE not clicking with what the fans want in Wrestlemania main events? For the last two years, WWE has put on their main event, matches that if happened the way they had planned, would have caused WWE to lose more fans than it brought in. WWE saved themselves with Daniel Bryan at 30 and Seth Rollins at 31. This year, there's no outside person who can save the show day of. If Triple H is to defeat Dean Ambrose at Roadblock, then there's no Plan B. Either Triple H has to win or Reigns has to win. Triple H, though the heel, is going to get a MASSIVE reaction in front of what could be the biggest WWE crowd in history while Reigns, LIKE LAST YEAR, will be met with heavy booing. HEAVY. Like, 80000 people all booing. It's going to be bad for them. Reigns, for whatever reason, isn't clicking with the WWE Universe. Should they give up? No, but there needs to be some serious changes to the Reigns character for the fans to get onboard with him. Currently, they are not and if this is there true main event, then look out WWE. Reigns is going to get higher boos than Cena ever got at Wrestlemania.
2. Predictable ending
Now, anything is certainly possible in WWE and like last year, just because we see what WWE is doing and we think we know everything, surprises can happen, but currently, this match has an ending everyone can see from a mile away. Roman Reigns will finally get his revenge on Triple H and The Authority by winning the title from the COO himself and truly start the Roman Empire. it's the fairytale ending that like I said, 80,000+ will not approve of. It's an ending that's needed to push Reigns but it's one that doesn't deviate from the norm.
3. SEVERE FAN BACKLASH
I cannot be more clear that WWE is digging their own grave. This ending, this match, will NOT go as planned if it stays this course. WWE fans were behind Reigns when he was kicking Triple H's ass but since then, it's been generic as generic can get with Reigns. Smile, make jokes, overcome the odds that he faces. He shows more traits of John Cena than of Stone Cold, which they're obviously trying to emulate. If they really want Reigns to get over and be more like Stone Cold, he needs to be beating up his bosses more instead of talking. They have three weeks to make Reigns into an ass kicker. If they don't expect hell WWE.
Roman Reigns VS Triple H is NOT a bad main event. In fact, I LOVE it. Triple H realizes that the only way they're going to truly get Reigns over is by having himself put him over. That's truly noble of Triple H but maybe they should have either done it sooner or continued the Roman Reigns of December 2015. This can all change if Ambrose wins the WWE Title Saturday....
Next up, it's the most random Wrestlemania main event in history!
Friday, March 4, 2016
Tis the season
A lot has happened since my last WWE post. Let's see, AJ Styles and Jericho formed Y2AJ, Wyatt's Wrestlemania clash with Brock Lesnar was turned into an upcoming squash match on a WWE Network special event and now he's facing Dean Ambrose at Wrestlemania Shane McMahon returned and was put in a Hell in a Cell match with The Undertaker at Wrestlemania for control of Raw, uhhhhhh, did I miss anything?
Yeah, it's truly Wrestlemania season. Fastlane went as everyone expected. Roman Reigns pinned Ambrose to solidify his spot in his 2nd straight Wrestlemania main event, this time against the King of Kings Triple H. Reigns is pretty much guaranteed to win here. Wait, that's what we said last year too. Roman Reigns is the favorite heading into his title match. Is that better? That is, if Triple makes it to Wrestlemania as champion. In the past two years, WWE has put themselves in a hard situation when it came to the last match at Wrestlemania. Batista returned in 2014 and won the Royal Rumble and was scheduled to face Orton in the main event. Fans hated it and booed the thought of it happening. WWE's back up plan was Daniel Bryan and the fans loved it. Wrestlemania last year featured Roman Reigns VS Brock Lesnar. Fans booed Reigns out of the building. WWE's plan there was Seth Rollins cashing in his Money in the Bank contract. The fans loved that. WWE for the 3rd year in a row has a main event that has fans divided. Personally, I'm all for it. I love the fact that these two are finally going to settle their differences inside the squared circle. It's a match that's been brewing since 2014 and to see it finally come to fruition is awesome. Obviously, the whole Reigns experiment hasn't been working and even though he came full circle in Philadelphia last year, people still aren't convinced that he's the one they want to get behind. They booed pretty heavily at the Royal Rumble. Can you imagine what happens when they perform in front of what could be the biggest crowd in WWE history?
You see where I'm going here? Dean Ambrose is the last chance WWE fans have if they're against Reigns. Ambrose is a real life roadblock. The main event of Wrestlemania could take a drastic turn. What if Ambrose wins? First off, can you imagine the pop he would get in Toronto? Second, it would throw together several different feuds in one match. The only option would be to combine the two matches and have a Fatal Four Way for the title, this way, the fans are pleased. Ambrose going over Triple H is a long shot but that's why we're all going to watch, for the thought that it might just happen. That WWE might FOR ONCE change the game plan is intriguing enough for me to tune into Roadblock.
I really don't want to talk Shane/Taker. Like, what the hell? I'm not against the match because of the quality. Shane McMahon has had better matches than people who have trained to be wrestlers their whole lives. That's not the issue. The issue is that The Undertaker is getting older and giving away one of his last matches to Shane is crazy, especially seeing how a guy like KEVIN OWENS is sitting on the sidelines, holding a title The Undertaker has never won and no one from WWE sees money in that. No one. Crazy. Also, the fact this match is happening means the dream match of John Cena VS The Undertaker is all but dead. Another Mania has passed without this match taking place. Taker is getting older and older so the more WWE waits, the more the match loses its appeal. Anyway, Shane VS Taker is a random match up but it's one the fans seem to be fan of. Why? Mainly because it's different! NO ONE saw this coming. I have to give WWE credit on that one. We'll see if the match lives up to the hype of the big show.
It's time for the match I'm looking forward to most! Charlotte will defend her Divas Title against both Becky Lynch and Sasha Banks in an all NXT originals match! While I was really hoping Sasha and Charlotte would be one on one, the three of them together will still be an amazing match, just as long as they give them time. How they can have a really great match if they only get 10 minutes? Give them a maximum of 20 and let them do the rest. This could seriously be the match of the night if they do it right. I'm surprised WWE was able to keep this match from happening sooner but thanks the injury to Banks that sidelined her for a month, it's now coming to fruition. With it being Triple Threat, I see Charlotte pinning Becky to retain, only to drop it to Sasha on the Raw after Mania. I mean, why not put the title on the hottest Diva in the business today? Just saying...
So far, the Road to Wrestlemania has been great, setting up some great matches that all scream Wrestlemania quality. We'll just wait and see what WWE has in store for their other champions. Owens VS Styles should be a thing, not Owens/Big Show. Why are they doing that? Still time for Zayn to get his chance though...
Wrestlemania is 4 weeks away!
Yeah, it's truly Wrestlemania season. Fastlane went as everyone expected. Roman Reigns pinned Ambrose to solidify his spot in his 2nd straight Wrestlemania main event, this time against the King of Kings Triple H. Reigns is pretty much guaranteed to win here. Wait, that's what we said last year too. Roman Reigns is the favorite heading into his title match. Is that better? That is, if Triple makes it to Wrestlemania as champion. In the past two years, WWE has put themselves in a hard situation when it came to the last match at Wrestlemania. Batista returned in 2014 and won the Royal Rumble and was scheduled to face Orton in the main event. Fans hated it and booed the thought of it happening. WWE's back up plan was Daniel Bryan and the fans loved it. Wrestlemania last year featured Roman Reigns VS Brock Lesnar. Fans booed Reigns out of the building. WWE's plan there was Seth Rollins cashing in his Money in the Bank contract. The fans loved that. WWE for the 3rd year in a row has a main event that has fans divided. Personally, I'm all for it. I love the fact that these two are finally going to settle their differences inside the squared circle. It's a match that's been brewing since 2014 and to see it finally come to fruition is awesome. Obviously, the whole Reigns experiment hasn't been working and even though he came full circle in Philadelphia last year, people still aren't convinced that he's the one they want to get behind. They booed pretty heavily at the Royal Rumble. Can you imagine what happens when they perform in front of what could be the biggest crowd in WWE history?
You see where I'm going here? Dean Ambrose is the last chance WWE fans have if they're against Reigns. Ambrose is a real life roadblock. The main event of Wrestlemania could take a drastic turn. What if Ambrose wins? First off, can you imagine the pop he would get in Toronto? Second, it would throw together several different feuds in one match. The only option would be to combine the two matches and have a Fatal Four Way for the title, this way, the fans are pleased. Ambrose going over Triple H is a long shot but that's why we're all going to watch, for the thought that it might just happen. That WWE might FOR ONCE change the game plan is intriguing enough for me to tune into Roadblock.
I really don't want to talk Shane/Taker. Like, what the hell? I'm not against the match because of the quality. Shane McMahon has had better matches than people who have trained to be wrestlers their whole lives. That's not the issue. The issue is that The Undertaker is getting older and giving away one of his last matches to Shane is crazy, especially seeing how a guy like KEVIN OWENS is sitting on the sidelines, holding a title The Undertaker has never won and no one from WWE sees money in that. No one. Crazy. Also, the fact this match is happening means the dream match of John Cena VS The Undertaker is all but dead. Another Mania has passed without this match taking place. Taker is getting older and older so the more WWE waits, the more the match loses its appeal. Anyway, Shane VS Taker is a random match up but it's one the fans seem to be fan of. Why? Mainly because it's different! NO ONE saw this coming. I have to give WWE credit on that one. We'll see if the match lives up to the hype of the big show.
It's time for the match I'm looking forward to most! Charlotte will defend her Divas Title against both Becky Lynch and Sasha Banks in an all NXT originals match! While I was really hoping Sasha and Charlotte would be one on one, the three of them together will still be an amazing match, just as long as they give them time. How they can have a really great match if they only get 10 minutes? Give them a maximum of 20 and let them do the rest. This could seriously be the match of the night if they do it right. I'm surprised WWE was able to keep this match from happening sooner but thanks the injury to Banks that sidelined her for a month, it's now coming to fruition. With it being Triple Threat, I see Charlotte pinning Becky to retain, only to drop it to Sasha on the Raw after Mania. I mean, why not put the title on the hottest Diva in the business today? Just saying...
So far, the Road to Wrestlemania has been great, setting up some great matches that all scream Wrestlemania quality. We'll just wait and see what WWE has in store for their other champions. Owens VS Styles should be a thing, not Owens/Big Show. Why are they doing that? Still time for Zayn to get his chance though...
Wrestlemania is 4 weeks away!
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