Avsnitt
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WWE's Double-Down: Prioritizing Loyal Fanbase Over Mainstream Appeal Under TKO Group. Get ready for 3 hours of Raw SmackDown and two-day of major pay-per-views.
In a surprising turn of events, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), under the new ownership of TKO Group Holdings, appears to be doubling down on its core fanbase, potentially at the expense of broader mainstream acceptance.
Since the merger finalized in September 2023, there's been a notable shift in WWE's programming. Storylines have become increasingly complex and reliant on insider knowledge, character arcs have become more convoluted, and the company seems to be leaning into the very elements that historically kept wrestling a niche form of entertainment.
This strategy flies in the face of expectations set by the merger. Many anticipated that TKO Group, with its focus on mainstream sports like the UFC, would push WWE toward a broader audience. However, recent changes suggest the opposite. The company appears to be prioritizing its smaller, but highly vocal, fanbase, even if it means alienating potential new viewers.
The reasons behind this decision remain unclear. Some speculate that TKO Group, after assessing the wrestling landscape, realized the strength of WWE's dedicated fanbase and decided to cater to them rather than chase a more elusive mainstream audience. Others suggest that this is a temporary strategy, a way to solidify WWE's core product before attempting a broader expansion.
While some long-time fans are thrilled with the increased focus on their interests, there are concerns about the long-term sustainability of this approach. The wrestling industry has always struggled to break into the mainstream, and this inward focus could further cement its niche status.
WWE's traditional pay-per-view model is already facing challenges in the age of streaming, and television ratings have been on the decline. By catering primarily to its existing fans, the company risks missing out on potential new revenue streams and growth opportunities.
Only time will tell whether WWE's gamble will pay off. The company is betting that its loyal fanbase will continue to support them, even if it means sacrificing potential mainstream success. It's a risky strategy, but one that could prove successful if executed correctly. For now, WWE remains committed to its core audience, a decision that will undoubtedly shape the future of professional wrestling for years to come.
Triple H's booking down to the level of the wrestlers and their lack of character or gimmick. It has a NXT Takeover ceiling....it will only draw a declining minority of diehard fans.
Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns made comments. More taunting that Kevin Owens should turn heel on Cody. Something is not right in this storyline.
Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley and a woman's world title rematch and it still has nothing to do with them. Dominik Mysterio and a shark cage tells you everything you need to know.
Sami Zayn, do you think you would ever think he could be cross promoted to do anything like a Drew McIntyre or a CM Punk or Cody Rhodes?
Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker are babyface playing heels.
Wyatt Sicks overcome American Made and no after effects from either of them.
Big Bronson Reed and Brawn Strowman booked into a last monster standing match, Sheamus and Pete Dunne and yet more never ending feuds.
"This Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman battle is genius booking. Been some of the best shit Triple H has given us on WWE Raw all year."
Jey Uso becoming IC Champion and his match with Bron Breakker had the making of a NXT Takeover main event. Joe Tessitore going all Mauro Ranallo. Wade Barrett going all Nigel McGuiness and the crowd getting stretched to a fever pitch to see Jey Uso get the pin. Timing again as the post match got 30 seconds right after he is announced as champion then the hard stop to USAs The Anonymous. End of the night and less than 1.5 million will watch with two Monday Night Football games to go up against. Bron with another short title run just to give Jey the belt at a very odd time.
Here are the recent Nielsen ratings for WWE programming since 9/20, along with the shows that beat them head-to-head:
* WWE Raw (Monday, September 23rd)
* Viewers: 1.339 million
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: 0.43
* Head-to-head competition: Two NFL games aired during Raw's timeslot, likely impacting its viewership. Specific information on the competing shows and their ratings wasn't readily available in my search results.
* WWE NXT (Tuesday, September 24th)
* Viewers: 620,000
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: 0.19
* Shows that beat NXT:
* WNBA Playoffs on ESPN (0.23 rating)
* Gutfeld on Fox News (0.22 rating)
* WWE SmackDown (Friday, September 20th)
* Viewers: 1.494 million
* Key Demographic (18-49) rating: Not readily available in my search results.
* Head-to-head competition: Information on specific competing shows and their ratings wasn't available in my search results.
Key Takeaways:
* Raw's ratings were likely impacted by the NFL games airing at the same time.
* NXT, in its final episode on the USA Network, saw a drop in viewership compared to the previous week.
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Oh, the WWE fandom's guzzling the Kool-Aid, blissfully unaware that their beloved universe is now a playground for cash-hungry wrestling podcasts, all united in the pipe dream of erasing Vince McMahon’s "indelible" legacy. Let’s just pretend Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns are the new “Super Powers”—as if we needed more forced nostalgia. Sheamus and Pete Dunne? Groundbreaking.
Meanwhile, Judgment Day’s breakup teases us with all the drama of a bad soap opera, and CM Punk is out here rehashing Shawn Michaels' “Blaze of Glory” promo like it’s 1996. Jey Uso? Yeah, he’s paying “respect” to Bron Breakker’s “dog,” while conveniently forgetting his 14 years of championship wins. Oh, and we’re turning legends into jobbers. Natalya? Jobber. Braun Strowman? Jobber. New Day breakup? Because why not?
Finn Balor? He’s not thrilled that Dominik left Rhea Ripley for Liv Morgan. Can you blame him? Big Bronson Reed tries to throw a guy at Braun Strowman, misses, and Braun no-sells it like a pro—classic WWE, right? Oh, and a golf cart got tipped over. This is what passes for feuds now. Don’t forget the 10 ambulances.
Adam Pearce, clearly bored, decides that Sami Zayn should annoy Gunther next. Sami’s mission? Break up every faction in WWE—Bloodline, Alpha Academy, Imperium. That’s his thing now, apparently. Then there’s the 50/50 booking fiasco between Bianca Belair and Iyo Sky. It’s like WWE's allergic to making decisions.
On the ratings front, FOX’s college football wiped the floor with RAW. Kansas State's boring win got 2.5 million viewers, while RAW limps in with 1.5 million. But hey, that's their golden number during football season, so no surprises there.
CM Punk? He’s the new face of hot-shot booking NXT, no surprise Roxanne Perez can keep up with him. The latest trend? Slapping to start women’s title feuds. Original, right? Just ask Jaida Parker and Kehlani Jordan. And for those excited about Saturday Night’s Main Event returning in December, manage your expectations—it won’t live up to the delusional hype.
The WWE Kool Aid that the fandom is drinking and the cash grabbers amongst my fellow wrestling podcast brethren are all in on the hopes of erasing Vince's legacy.
Warner Bros. Discovery is “close to finalizing a package to renew" All Elite Wrestling and a formal announcement “could come as soon as next week, barring any last-minute challenges,” according to sources cited by John Ourand of PUCK. It “looks like it will be a four-year deal (three years guaranteed, plus an option)," and the $170M per year number “floating around wrestling message boards is apparently in the ballpark.” AEW matches will "air on TNT, TBS, and TruTV twice a week -- further evidencing” WBD CEO David Zaslav’s strategy of “making the latter two networks more valuable and sports-oriented in the cable bundle as the potency of TNT declines sans professional basketball rights.” This deal “marks a clear success for AEW,” which launched five years ago with a threshold WBD deal. AEW is also “pitching another package, primarily to broadcast channels,” but there is “no timetable for when AEW will start to push that deal" (PUCK, 9/16).
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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* Wyatt Sicks ended American Made's run, now what? WWE has a habit of dropping storylines abruptly.
* Judgment Day storyline continues with Rhea Ripley injured, adding to the group's long list of nonsensical plot points.
* Jey Uso seems underutilized despite being part of the Intercontinental Title picture, proving yet again that WWE doesn't know how to handle tag team wrestlers going solo.
* Bret Hart's appearance felt more like a way to trigger Sami Zayn's attack on Gunther, a predictable move considering WWE's love for cheap pops.
* Pure Fusion Collective matches feel like filler content, another indication that WWE creative is struggling to produce compelling storylines.
* Adam Pierce's informal address to the commentators is noticeable, perhaps another subtle dig at Vince McMahon's micromanagement tendencies.
* Braun Strowman faces three smaller opponents, with Jey Uso's role unclear, further highlighting WWE's tendency to create confusing multi-person matches.
* CM Punk's return and a World Tag Team Title match are the highlights for next week's Raw, let's just hope WWE doesn't ruin it with their usual brand of nonsensical booking.
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AEW All Out 2024 was a night filled with thrilling matches and championship clashes. The main event saw Bryan Danielson retain his AEW World Championship against Jack Perry in a hard-fought battle. Blackpool Combat Club comes apart as a Moxley-led mutiny grows.
In other title matches, MJF successfully defended his ROH World Television Championship against Daniel Garcia, The Young Bucks kept their AEW World Tag Team Championship against the Blackpool Combat Club, and Will Ospreay remained AEW International Champion after defeating PAC.
Mercedes Mone retained her AEW TBS Championship in a match against Hikaru Shida, where Kamille was banned from ringside. Kris Statlander also emerged victorious in a Chicago Street Fight against Willow Nightingale.
In a four-way match for the AEW Continental Championship, Kazuchika Okada successfully defended his title against Mark Briscoe, Orange Cassidy, and Konosuke Takeshita.
Swerve Strickland and Adam Page clashed in a brutal Unsanctioned Lights Out Steel Cage match, leaving both men battered and bruised and Adam Page scored a knockout.
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WWE's Current Strategy: Catering to the Arena, Not the Home Viewer. WWE seems to be prioritizing the in-person fan experience over expanding its television audience.
The company's current storytelling and character development are geared towards generating excitement and reactions from those attending live events, often at the expense of creating engaging narratives for viewers at home.
Evidence of this strategy:
* No over-the-top storylines and characters: Current WWE storylines are often exaggerated and rely heavily on shock value and nostalgia, rather than nuanced character development and long-term storytelling. This approach can generate immediate reactions from a live audience, but can feel disjointed and confusing for viewers at home who may not be familiar with every reference or character.
* Focus on in-arena moments: WWE's television broadcasts now often feature segments that are clearly designed for the live audience, such as extended crowd interactions, impromptu promos, and surprise appearances. While these moments can be thrilling for those in attendance, they can disrupt the flow of the show for viewers at home, making it difficult to follow the overarching narrative.
* Lack of character depth: Many WWE characters currently lack depth and motivation, making it difficult for viewers to invest in their stories. The focus seems to be on creating larger-than-life personas that will elicit a strong reaction from the crowd, rather than developing well-rounded characters with relatable struggles and aspirations.
Broadcast changes and their implications:
* Netflix deal: While the recent deal with Netflix to air NXT could potentially introduce WWE to a new audience, the current focus on catering to the live audience may not translate well to a streaming platform where viewers are more likely to binge-watch and expect a more coherent storyline.
* CW and USA Network: The move of SmackDown to the CW Network and the continuation of Raw on the USA Network presents an opportunity for WWE to reach a wider audience. However, the current approach to storytelling may alienate new viewers who are looking for more than just spectacle and shock value.
Conclusion:
WWE's current strategy seems to be focused on pleasing the existing fanbase and maximizing revenue from live events. While this approach may be successful in the short term, it risks alienating potential new viewers and hindering the company's long-term growth. If WWE wants to truly expand its audience and reach its full potential, it needs to find a way to balance the excitement of the live experience with the need for compelling storytelling and character development that will resonate with viewers at home.
WWE's current narratives seem trapped in a cycle of never-ending feuds and missed opportunities. The storylines often feel predictable and stagnant, failing to create compelling drama or showcase the full potential of the talented roster.
* Feuds That Refuse to Die: Several rivalries seem stuck in an endless loop, leaving fans feeling frustrated and bored. The Judgment Day and LWO saga continues to drag on, even incorporating Jey Uso without a clear direction. Similarly, the Wyatt Sicks and American Made feud with Alpha Academy as comic relief feels tired and predictable. CM Punk's pursuit of Gunther and Drew McIntyre remains unresolved, leaving fans questioning the purpose of the never-ending cycle of matches and promos.
* Underutilized Talent: The roster is brimming with potential stars who are being sidelined or relegated to meaningless feuds. The Pure Fusion Collective feels directionless, despite their undeniable talent. Odyssey Jones, Kiana James, Teagan Nox, Lyra Valkyria, and Blair Davenport are all fading into obscurity, their initial promise overshadowed by a lack of substantial storylines.
* Missed Opportunities: The Intercontinental Championship tournament lacks excitement and stakes, with Bron Breakker's absence further diminishing its importance. The women's division suffers from a lack of fresh feuds, as Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill continue their rivalry with the addition of Damage CTRL.
Positives:
* Joe Tessitore's Smooth Transition: Joe Tessitore's seamless integration into WWE's commentary team is a bright spot. His professional delivery and knowledge of the product bring a much-needed sense of polish to the broadcast.
Overall, WWE's current creative direction leaves a lot to be desired. The focus on endless feuds and underutilized talent creates a sense of stagnation and predictability, leaving fans yearning for fresh stories and opportunities for new stars to shine.
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WWE Bash in Berlin was a predictable, uneventful affair that felt like a glorified house show. The five matches on the card lacked the spark and drama that fans expect from a major pay-per-view event. Storylines leading up to the event were largely ignored, making it difficult to invest in the outcomes. While there were a few decent moments, the overall experience was underwhelming, leaving fans with little to remember from WWE's first foray into Germany.
* World Heavyweight Championship: Gunther defeated Randy Orton to retain the title. * WWE Undisputed Championship: Cody Rhodes defeated Kevin Owens to retain the title. * Strap Match: CM Punk defeated Drew McIntyre. * WWE Women's Tag Team Championships: Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill defeated The Unholy Union (Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn) to win the titles. * Mixed Tag Team Match: Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley defeated Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan. *
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Waning Warlords of the WWE: The Bloodline, once a dominant force, now feels diluted and directionless. Meanwhile, Judgment Day and the LWO seem to be in a competition for who can have the shortest members.
Intercontinental Intrigue, or Is It? A packed field of IC Title contenders promises... something, maybe. But with names like Miz and Kofi in the mix, it feels more like a nostalgia trip than a thrilling title chase.
Wyatt's Whimper: Remember when we cared about the Wyatt 6? Yeah, me neither."Macho Man" McIntyre and the Punk Posse: CM Punk, the Taylor Swift for men, is after Drew McIntyre's shiny bracelet. This feud has "weird heat," which is wrestling code for "we don't really get it either."
Promo Purgatory: Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton's promos are longer than a Lord of the Rings marathon, and about as focused.
Big Men, Big Fatigue: Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman are both looking more winded than a pair of asthmatic elephants. Crushing a used car? Yawn.
NXT Notes and Nostalgic Farewells
Uncle Howdy, Unimpressive: Uncle Howdy wrestles like a regular guy, not some spooky supernatural entity. Disappointing.
*Roxanne's Readiness: Busted Open is split on whether Roxanne Perez is ready for the main roster. The real question is, is the main roster ready for her?
*Rosemary's NXT Arrival: Rosemary is crossing over to NXT. Hopefully, she brings some of that spooky energy that Uncle Howdy lacks.
*Remembering a Legend: RIP to the legendary SID. He will be missed.
*Ratings Reality Check: Get ready for RAW's ratings to plummet for football. It's inevitable when the product is this underwhelming.
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Wembley Stadium witnessed a historic night for AEW AllIn 2024. Bryan Danielson's story culminated in an emotional victory over Swerve Strickland, claiming the AEW World Championship and defying his career's end.
The women of AEW shined bright. Mariah May stunned the world by dethroning Timeless Toni Storm, becoming the new AEW Women's World Champion. Mercedes Mone showcased her dominance, retaining the TBS Championship against Dr. Britt Baker DMD.
Will Ospreay soared to new heights, capturing the AEW International Championship from MJF in a breathtaking clash. The Young Bucks, employing their signature tactics, retained their tag team titles in a chaotic three-way match.
The night was filled with surprises. Nigel McGuinness made a triumphant return to the ring, while Ricochet debuted, sending shockwaves through the AEW landscape.
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WWE Fanatics Fest: A curated crowd, curated content...curated cringe. Nia Jax's return? More like a throwback to awkward segments. South Florida fans? More interested in their phones than the ring. Gunther and Orton? Proof that any move gets a pop these days. Wyatt's win? Meaningless, except for the manufactured crowd reaction. CM Punk's promo? 5 minutes of filler before the 'real' message. Ivy Nile's declaration? I'm the Pitbull. Priest and Ripley's new name? Terror Twins? More like trying too hard to be edgy. Axiom and Frazer's win? Just another example of parity booking where everyone's mediocre. Fatal Attraction's revamp? Less 'Fatal Influence', more 'failed attempt'.
Nia Jax celebration with some Pretty Deadly cringe.
South Florida Fair-weather fans for RAW in Fort Lauderdale.
Crowd watching Gunther and Randy Orton just cheer for anything.
Fanatics Fest is comprised of the WWE Fandom that they think resembles the audience they want to create and cater to.
Wyatt Sicks wipe out American Made and it means nothing except the crowd.
5 minutes to get to the part of the CM Punk promo where he calls for a strap match. He's Taylor Swift for Men. That bracelet really means a lot.
Ivy Nile says I'm the Pitbull.
Damien Priest and Rhea Ripley are now the Terror Twins. Wonder Twin Power
Axiom And Nathan Frazer Defeat Duke Hudson And Riley Osborne of Chase U, May Have Earned NXT Tag Title Shot. Parity booking makes no one better.
Fatal attraction resurrected by the least popular member to become Fatal Influence.
AEW All In: Wembley's the place to be this Saturday! Dynamite in Cardiff? A good show with a genuine crowd. Baker and Mone? Finally recovering from that messy storyline. The Learning Tree? Prepped and ready for Hook. Saraya and Starks' contract rumors? Just fuel for WWE fans' wishful thinking. MJF and Ospreay? Now THAT'S a feud done right. Passionate promos, character development, and a match built on more than just moves. The 'American Champion' gimmick? MJF's taking notes from Jericho on how to stay relevant. Tiger Driver 91? A lingering threat adding to the tension. The closing line? A mic drop moment that's got everyone talking.
AEW All In at Wembley Stadium is Saturday
Dynamite in Cardiff was a nice look with a good crowd.
Dr Britt Baker DMD and Mercedes Mone recover from an inconsistent storyline.
Learning Tree prepped for FTW title match with Hook.
The rumble about Saraya and Ricky Starks and their AEW contracts are low hanging fruit for the disgruntled WWE fandom wishing to see them get mediocre runs with HHH.
MJF has helped to build more passionate poignant promos out of Will Ospreay. This match will be built than just workmanship and that will help escalate this match. Great promos with the American champion gimmick. He's learned from Chris Jericho on how to evolve his character. Tiger Driver 91 still a factor that will come up in this match. A lot of heat for the go home. Based on the closing point that facts don't care about your feelings.
The card for “AEW: All In” on Sunday, August 25, includes the following matchups:
AEW World Championship: Swerve Strickland (c) vs. Bryan Danielson
AEW Women’s World Championship: Toni Storm (c) vs. Mariah May
AEW American Championship: MJF (c) vs. Will Ospreay
AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Britt Baker
AEW TNT Championship Coffin Match: Jack Perry (c) vs. Darby Allin
AEW World Tag-Team Championship: The Young Bucks (c) vs. FTR vs. The Acclaimed
AEW Trios Championship “London Ladder Match”: The Patriarchy (c) vs. House of Black vs. The Bang Bang Gang vs. Mystery Team TBA
FTW Championship: Chris Jericho (c) vs. HOOK
Casino Gauntlet: Orange Cassidy, More Competitors TBA
Willow Nightingale & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kris Statlander & Stokely Hathaway (Zero Hour)
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Ah, WWE and Netflix. A match made in... well, not heaven. More like a boardroom where executives pitched the idea of combining spandex-clad soap operas with binge-watching. Cynically speaking, WWE isn't ready for Netflix because it thrives on the unpredictability of live events, questionable storylines, and the sheer spectacle of it all. Netflix, on the other hand, is all about polished narratives and high production value. Can you imagine Vince McMahon letting go of the reins and letting Netflix dictate the creative direction? It'd be like asking a peacock to blend in with a flock of pigeons.
Cody's Charity Case, Roman's Solo Act, and LA's Meaningless Title Win
Cody Rhodes is practically begging Kevin Owens to take his WWE Title. Meanwhile, Roman Reigns, unhappy with the Bloodline's direction (and maybe Jey's injury), goes rogue. LA Knight wins a title, but it's clear no one cares, especially not Logan Paul. Legado del Fantasma and Santos Escobar continue to be LA's favorite punching bags.
Tag Teams, Wasted Talent, and Liv's Demotion
The tag team tournament features the same old faces. Jade Cargill and Alba Fyre have a pointless singles match, while Bianca Belair and Isla Dawn stand around doing nothing. Judgment Day focuses solely on Liv Morgan, who now has Dominik Mysterio heat and is basically a valet. Rhea Ripley's confrontation was weak, and she's even mocked with a subtle Buddy Matthews reference.
Butch's Bitterness, Bronson's Bearcat Act, and New Day's New Friend
Pete Dunne is bitter about being called Butch and blames Sheamus. Big Bronson Reed gets a ridiculous "RAW Physics" segment that treats him like a zoo animal. Odyssey Jones is inching closer to joining the New Day, and Final Testament continues to be entertaining.
Damage CTRL's Domination, Faction Overload, and Chase U's Confetti Shower
Damage CTRL runs the show because Dakota got hurt again. The Drive-By Dolls are now the "Pure Fusion Collective." Gunther and Randy Orton are overshadowed by CM Punk and Drew McIntyre. CM Punk claims it's not about the bracelet, but who believes that? Alpha Academy and Judgment Day refuse to break up, adding to the ever-growing list of factions with no clear identity. Chase U finally wins tag team gold, and the celebration features an absurd amount of confetti.
Joe Hendry's False Hope and the TNA Stigma
Joe Hendry gets booked in a pointless #1 contender's match, and even if he wins, he'll probably lose to Ethan Page. TNA did it better.
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AEW All In at Wembley Stadium is next week
* AEW Women's World Championship: Toni Storm vs. Mariah May
* Toni Storm, reigning champion, has been a dominant force, showcasing her strength and resilience.
* Mariah May, a rising star with impressive victories, has earned her shot at the title.
* This clash represents a battle between an established champion and a hungry challenger eager to make her mark.
* AEW American Championship: MJF vs. Will Ospreay
* MJF, the reigning champion, has been using underhanded tactics to retain his title.
* Will Ospreay, a high-flying sensation, seeks to prove his worth and capture the championship.
* This match pits two contrasting styles against each other, with both competitors vying for the spotlight.
* AEW TNT Championship Coffin Match: Jack Perry vs. Darby Allin
* Jack Perry, the champion, and Darby Allin have a deeply personal feud that has escalated over time.
* The Coffin Match stipulation adds another layer of intensity and danger to their already heated rivalry.
* This grudge match promises to be brutal and unpredictable, with both competitors willing to go to extremes.
* AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné vs. Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D.
* Mercedes Moné, the champion, has been a fighting champion, defending her title against all comers.
* Dr. Britt Baker, a former champion, seeks to reclaim her spot at the top of the women's division.
* This match features two of the most popular and skilled wrestlers in AEW, promising a thrilling contest.
* Casino Gauntlet Match for a Future AEW World Championship Match
* Several competitors will battle it out in a unique gauntlet match to earn a shot at the AEW World Championship.
* The unpredictable nature of the Casino Gauntlet adds excitement and suspense to the event.
* This match represents an opportunity for a rising star to seize the spotlight and potentially become the next world champion.
* AEW World Trios Championship: The Patriarchy vs. The Bang Bang Gang or House of Black
* The Patriarchy, the reigning champions, have used their cunning and experience to dominate the trios division.
* The Bang Bang Gang and House of Black, two formidable teams, are vying for the opportunity to dethrone the champions.
* This match showcases the depth of the trios division, promising a thrilling clash of styles and strategies.
* AEW World Championship Title vs. Career Match: Swerve Strickland vs. Bryan Danielson
* Swerve Strickland, the reigning champion, faces the ultimate challenge from Bryan Danielson.
* Danielson, a legendary wrestler, puts his career on the line for one last shot at the AEW World Championship.
* This main event is a high-stakes showdown, filled with emotion and drama, as both competitors risk everything for glory.
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Roman Reigns returns to address the Bloodline mutiny, while LA Knight peaks with a mid-card title. The Berlin main event and brand split confusion leave fans baffled. Finn Balor's sudden turn and Seth Rollins’ underwhelming feud reflect WWE's reliance on recycled storylines, ignored by fans in their echo chamber.
**Roman Reigns' Return**: Roman Reigns has come back to address the Bloodline mutiny. Why now? Clearly, nothing screams urgency like waiting until the last possible moment to show up and pretend to fix things. Does Cody Rhodes have a role here? Who knows? Maybe he’s just there to be the perpetual underdog with no clear direction.
**LA Knight’s Peak**: LA Knight, now the United States Champion, has apparently reached his career pinnacle. Let’s face it, this mid-card title is probably the best he's ever going to get. And sure, a rematch with Logan Paul in Berlin? Because nothing says thrilling wrestling action like a mid-card title match in a foreign city.
**Bash in Berlin Main Event**: The main event is set: Gunther vs. Randy Orton in a King of the Ring rematch. Exciting? Maybe if you’re stuck in a 2010s time loop.
**Brand Split Confusion**: Randy Orton and A Town Down Under appear on RAW, leaving us all wondering if the brand split is just a myth. Apparently, WWE has decided that continuity and coherent storytelling are optional.
**Finn Balor’s Turn**: Finn Balor turned on Damian Priest because Priest changed after winning the World Championship. He references a match from last year's SummerSlam and blames Priest for his loss. So, Finn stayed quiet for a year, then an extra four months, and finally decided now was the perfect time for a heel turn. Long-term booking or just a convenient plot twist? You decide. Meanwhile, Judgement Day’s relevance continues to plummet faster than Edge’s career revival attempts.
**Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and CM Punk**: Seth Rollins steps into the Drew McIntyre and CM Punk feud, but instead of a triple threat, we get Seth vs. Big Bronson Reed. Fans are expected to cheer for Bronson to squash Seth, because apparently, WWE thinks they can recreate the Nakamura vs. Rollins magic (or lack thereof) from last year. Dr. Chris Featherstone points out the absurdity of it all on the Legion of Rock podcast.
**New Day’s Assist**: The New Day gets an assist from Odyssey Jones, who takes out an entire faction. Meanwhile, Lyra Valkyria is left hanging without backup from Kayden Carter and Katana Chance. Because when in doubt, just throw random wrestlers together and hope for the best.
AEW ALLIn Wembley three weeks away.....
* AEW World Championship: Swerve Strickland (c) vs. Bryan Danielson
* AEW Women's World Championship: Toni Storm (c) vs. Mariah May
* AEW American Championship: MJF (c) vs. Will Ospreay
* AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D.
* AEW TNT Championship: Jack Perry (c) vs. Darby Allin
* AEW World Championship: Swerve Strickland defeated MJF at Double or Nothing to win the title. Bryan Danielson earned his shot by winning a tournament. The feud intensified when Swerve attacked Danielson's mentor, William Regal.
* AEW Women's World Championship: Toni Storm has been a dominant champion, defeating all challengers. Mariah May, a rising UK star, earned her title shot by winning the women's Owen Hart Cup.
* AEW American Championship: MJF has been a controversial champion, using underhanded tactics to retain his title. Will Ospreay, a top international star, became the number one contender after defeating Chris Jericho at Forbidden Door.
* AEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Moné won the title in a tournament after joining AEW. Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D., a former champion, earned her rematch by winning a battle royal.
* AEW TNT Championship: Jack Perry turned heel and won the title from Wardlow. Darby Allin, a fan favorite, earned his shot by winning the Royal Rampage.
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SummerSlam 2024 was full of surprises, from illogical title changes to questionable booking decisions. Liv Morgan retained her title despite Dominik Mysterio's sudden turnaround, while Bron Breakker won convincingly after a previous loss. LA Knight won his first major title amidst controversy, thanks to a brass knuckles incident and a potentially botched finish.
Nia Jax captured the women's title with help from Tiffany Stratton, who enjoyed a brief reign herself. The highly anticipated match between Drew McIntyre and CM Punk ended abruptly with Seth Rollins' unnecessary involvement, leaving fans disappointed.
The World Heavyweight Championship changed hands with a predictable heel turn by Finn Balor, hinting at a possible disbandment of Judgment Day. The Bloodline Rules match saw Cody Rhodes retain his title thanks to unexpected backup from Arn Anderson, Kevin Owens, Randy Orton, and even Roman Reigns himself, who ultimately betrayed Solo Sikoa.
Notable points:
Dominik Mysterio is now anchored with Liv Morgan and he does a complete-360 turnaround two weeks later after telling her he hates her he never wants to see her again and all that and all the sudden she's supposed to just be taken back like that and that whole thing they did where Liv was destroying the clubhouse and turning dark that's all gone and she keeps the title.. bullshit.
Bron wins convincingly. No logic why he lost the first title shot, or why Sami Zayn chose to give Bron a rematch.
LA Knight's WWE win/loss record is 86 wins and 50 losses. He has 13 wins and 29 losses on NXT.
The most significant opponents LA Knight has feuded with in WWE include:
* Bray Wyatt
* The Miz
* Logan Paul
https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=4409&page=4
Knight wins after getting hit with brass knuckles and Logan Paul's left foot was under the ropes and they cut the replay short. Are they using it as a rematch excuse?
Tiffany Stratton with the assist to punish Bayley and help Nia Jax win. She wore the crown for one night.
Bad camera shot for Drew McIntyre with fire flaming out of his backside. Seth Rollins was not needed for this match with Drew and CM Punk. We couldn't have just had a match to culminate this year long feud. First reference that this is CM Punk's first singles match since he returned and his first since he got injured. They left so much story on the table and then you bring in Seth Rollins. Punk feels screwed by Rollins after he took the bracelet. They just want to go to Punk and Rollins. Punk screwed Punk. Bad storytelling again and the story was rushed.... and the bracelet. So now Punk let's Seth get the best of him.
Horrible buildup to Gunther and Damian Priest only to end with a predictable heel turn by Finn Balor to take the world heavyweight title off of Priest. Judgement Day is gonna disband?
Country superstar Jelly Roll gets his viral moment of off Austin Theory and Grayson Waller.
Cody Rhodes is coached up by Arn Anderson and tells Cody he's got backup for the Bloodline.
Bloodline Rules match. Solo is fighting methodic like Roman then the same match like WrestleMania. Tongan interference (last time was the Usos) then the escalating backup with Kevin Owens, Randy Orton to neutralize. Jacob Fatu (like Solo last time) jumps in. Roman Reigns returns and takes Solo Sikoa out and leaves him for Cody Rhodes to retain the Universal title.
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WWE's road to SummerSlam has been marked by lackluster storytelling and underwhelming build-ups. Notable moments include:
* Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa: A hastily arranged match with a rushed buildup.
* Punk vs. McIntyre: Their confrontation lost steam due to overexposure and predictability.
* Liv Morgan: Her unstable behavior and clubhouse rampage seem out of character.
* Damian Priest vs. Gunther: Their feud relies heavily on video packages and repetitive catchphrases.
* Bron Breaker: His title shot feels unearned and based on comedic segments.
* Bray Wyatt: His absence leaves his storyline unresolved and irrelevant.
* Women's Division: Various feuds lack depth and meaningful storylines.
* Logan Paul vs. LA Knight: The match seems predictable and one-sided.
Overall, SummerSlam's buildup has been underwhelming, with numerous feuds lacking depth and engaging narratives.
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SummerSlam's story threads seem more like a tangled ball of yarn than a cohesive narrative.
Damian Priest and Gunther's animosity ignited by a JD McDonagh comment feels like an overblown reaction, while the Wyatt Sicks gimmick is sinking faster than a lead balloon.
The Bloodline's familial feud has been conveniently forgotten, with Sami Zayn and Jey Uso suddenly acting like best buddies.
Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes continues to be the punching bag for the same group, a storyline that's grown as stale as week-old bread.
On a brighter note, Logan Paul surprisingly emerges as the voice of reason, exposing LA Knight's undeserved entitlement while simultaneously granting him the title shot he craves.
And who could forget Bayley's bizarre briefcase debacle, a stunt more nonsensical than a talking pineapple?
All in all, SummerSlam's build-up is a chaotic mess, a spectacle that's more cringe-inducing than captivating. One can only hope the actual event delivers a more coherent and entertaining experience.
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At Slammiversary, a vengeful "Broken" Matt Hardy vanquished JDC in a singles match. In an upset, ABC dethroned The System to capture the TNA World Tag Team Championship. Mike Santana emerged victorious over Jake Something in a hard-fought battle. The Rascalz showcased their teamwork by triumphing over the No Quarter Catch Crew in a six-man tag team match.
In a brutal Montreal Street Fight, PCO defeated A.J. Francis to claim both the TNA Digital Media Championship and the Canadian International Heavyweight Championship. Jordynne Grace successfully defended her TNA Knockouts World Championship against Ash by Elegance. In a stunning upset, Mike Bailey forced Mustafa Ali to submit, becoming the new TNA X Division Champion.
The night's main event saw Nic Nemeth outlast five other competitors in a chaotic six-way elimination match to seize the TNA World Championship.
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The Bloodline's predictable pattern of pummeling opponents before promptly getting their comeuppance continues to captivate... no one. Meanwhile, the midcard remains a mind-numbing mess of indistinguishable wrestlers vying for a participation trophy.
Dominik and Rhea's "edgy" romance is a pale imitation of Eddie and Chyna, while Liv Morgan's constant whining makes us wish she'd just go away. Gunther's promos are the only saving grace in a sea of snooze-inducing matches, keeping his IC title from slipping into complete irrelevance.
Sami Zayn's saintly sacrifice has somehow made the IC title scene even more convoluted, culminating in a DQ finish that screamed "Jeff Jarrett ripoff."
Poor Braun Strowman gets buried to prop up Damian Priest's reign, which is about as exciting as watching paint dry.
The Driveaway Dolls (Baszler, Stark, and Deville) are single-handedly carrying the women's division, which is otherwise a wasteland of mediocrity.
Wyatt Sicks creepy videos are admittedly cool, but Bo Dallas getting squashed by the Creed Brothers is hardly a compelling storyline. And Xavier Woods recruiting Alpha Academy? Talk about scraping the bottom of the barrel.
NXT's TNA Takeover: A Surprising Synergy or a Desperate Gimmick?
The recent NXT-TNA partnership has been a mixed bag of intriguing crossovers and head-scratching decisions. Joe Hendry, a charismatic TNA import, has injected some much-needed personality into NXT, even forming an unlikely alliance with Trick Williams. Their tag team clash against Ethan Page and Shawn Spears was a highlight, showcasing Hendry's unique style and undeniable charisma.
However, not all TNA transplants have been as well-received. Some fans see the influx of former TNA stars as a desperate attempt to boost NXT's dwindling viewership, while others argue that it dilutes the brand's identity. The jury is still out on whether this partnership will ultimately benefit NXT or simply serve as a nostalgic novelty.
Here are some key moments from the NXT-TNA crossover:
* **Joe Hendry's Arrival:** Hendry's infectious energy and catchy theme song instantly made him a fan favorite. His partnership with Trick Williams, though unexpected, has been surprisingly entertaining.
* **The Rascalz Reunion:** The return of the Rascalz, a popular TNA faction, was a nostalgic treat for longtime fans. Their reunion with Wes Lee, a former stablemate, added an emotional layer to their storyline.
* **Mixed Reactions:** While some fans have embraced the TNA invasion, others remain skeptical. The partnership's long-term impact on NXT remains to be seen.
Overall, the NXT-TNA partnership has generated buzz and brought some fresh faces to NXT. Whether it will lead to a lasting legacy or simply fade into obscurity remains to be seen. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off for both brands.
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Since assuming Vince McMahon's creative duties, WWE's Chief Content Officer, Paul "Triple H" Levesque, has been focusing on integrating former NXT stars into the main roster. The 36 TakeOver events, which ran from 2014 to 2021, served as a launchpad for numerous wrestlers who have since become household names in the WWE universe.
Sources within the company indicate that Triple H is actively seeking to rekindle the magic of the TakeOver era by revisiting the impressive roster of performers who honed their skills at the WWE Performance Center during that time. This strategy aligns with Triple H's commitment to nurturing talent and his vision for the future of WWE programming.
Several former NXT standouts who made their mark at TakeOver events reintroduced to the main roster have not at all lived up to their supposed potential.
Triple H has made fans of that era think of him as a forward-thinking executive who values the rich history of WWE while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Triple H is committed to maximizing the potential of the NXT TakeOver alumni. As the WWE universe eagerly awaits the next chapter in this unfolding story, one thing is certain: the legacy of the TakeOver era is far from over.
CM Punk's Growing List of Enemies: CM Punk's controversial return continues to stir up the WWE landscape. Punk now finds himself at odds with Seth Rollins. Could this be a precursor to a WrestleMania showdown between the two wrestling icons?
Wyatt's Eerie Enigma: Bray Wyatt's latest cryptic segment, a bizarre "Wyatt Sick6 Video Store" vignette, left fans perplexed. The use of outdated VHS tapes added a layer of creepiness to the segment, raising questions about Wyatt's motives and the direction of his character.
Damien's Double Take: In a surprising move, Damien Priest dropped the stipulation that Seth Rollins couldn't challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship again, granting Rollins another title shot. The stakes are high, as both competitors vie for the prestigious championship.
Bronson's Bravado: Bronson Reed continued his intimidation tactics, taunting Sheamus as he prepared to face Pete Dunne. Reed's presence looms large over the Intercontinental Championship scene, adding another layer of complexity to the already intense competition.
Sami's Struggle: Sami Zayn's recent booking has raised eyebrows among fans. Despite his popularity, Zayn has been portrayed as a punching bag, often taking the brunt of his opponents' attacks. This treatment of a fan favorite has sparked debate about his future direction.
Gunther's Absence: Despite his impressive reign as Intercontinental Champion, Gunther has been noticeably absent from the world title picture. Fans are questioning why the dominant champion isn't being considered for a shot at the top prize.
Women's Tag Team Turmoil: The women's tag team division is heating up, with Damage CTRL facing off against the newly formed alliance of Shayna Baszler, Zoey Stark, and Sonya DeVille. WWEs version of Drive-Away Dolls.
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John Cena's WWE career is one of the most decorated in the company's history. Debuting in 2002, he quickly rose through the ranks with his charismatic personality and impressive in-ring skills. Cena has announced he will wrestle his final matches this coming WrestleMania season.
**Highlights:**
* **16-time World Champion:** Cena holds the record for most world championship reigns, surpassing WWE legends like Ric Flair.
* **United States Champion:** He has won the U.S. title five times, showcasing his versatility and ability to elevate the mid-card scene.
* **Royal Rumble Winner:** Cena won the Royal Rumble match twice, in 2008 and 2013, solidifying his position as a top star.
* **Franchise Player:** For over a decade, Cena was the face of WWE, headlining numerous pay-per-views and becoming a global icon.
* **Successful Transition to Acting:** In recent years, Cena has transitioned to a successful acting career, starring in blockbuster films like *Bumblebee* and *The Suicide Squad*.
At WWE Money in the Bank 2024, Seth Rollins challenged Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Championship. If Priest won, Rollins would be unable to challenge for the title again, but if Rollins won, Priest would have to leave The Judgment Day.
The match was intense, with both wrestlers exchanging high-impact moves and near falls. Rollins seemed to have the upper hand until the referee controversially stopped counting during a pin attempt. This distraction allowed Drew McIntyre, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder, to cash in his contract for an immediate title shot.
However, as the match started, CM Punk interfered, attacking McIntyre and allowing Priest to retain his title. This shocking turn of events suggests a potential alliance between Priest and Punk, and leaves the future of the World Heavyweight Championship uncertain.
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In defiance of the long-standing stigma of sports entertainment, the Wrestling is Real Podcast examines strikingly similar booking patterns to the booking of TNA in 2010 under Bruce Pritchard.
During Bruce Prichard's tenure as TNA head writer in 2011 and 2012, several key storylines unfolded:
* **The Immortal/Fortune Feud:** This ongoing storyline involved a power struggle between the villainous Immortal faction, led by Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff, and the fan-favorite Fortune group, featuring AJ Styles, Kazarian, and Christopher Daniels. The feud saw numerous twists and turns, including betrayals, alliances, and high-stakes matches.
Feels like Bloodline vs. Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens
* **Bobby Roode's Rise to Championship Glory:** Bobby Roode's character experienced a significant transformation, evolving from a tag team wrestler to a cunning and arrogant heel. This culminated in his victory over James Storm for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship, marking the beginning of a historic title reign.
Kurt Angle vs. Jeff Jarrett feels like Drew McIntyre vs. CM Punk
* **Sting vs. Hulk Hogan:** The iconic Sting returned to TNA with a renewed focus on taking down Hulk Hogan, whom he perceived as corrupting the company. Their rivalry culminated in a match at Bound for Glory 2011, with Sting ultimately emerging victorious.
Feels like the Rock and Roman Reigns
* **The Aces & Eights Invasion:** A mysterious group known as Aces & Eights began targeting TNA wrestlers, creating an atmosphere of paranoia and uncertainty. This storyline played out over several months, eventually revealing the group's leader to be Bully Ray.
Feels like Judgement Day
These are just a few of the major storylines that took place under Bruce Prichard's creative direction. His tenure was marked by a mix of established stars, emerging talents, and controversial angles, contributing to a dynamic and often unpredictable period in TNA's history.
In addition to the main storylines mentioned previously, other notable storylines during Bruce Prichard's time as TNA head writer included:
* **The Return of Jeff Hardy:** Jeff Hardy made a highly anticipated return to TNA after a hiatus, embarking on a journey of redemption and battling personal demons. His storylines often focused on his struggles with addiction and his quest to regain the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.
The eventual creation of of THEM... feels like Wyatt 6
* **The Rise of Austin Aries:** Austin Aries emerged as a breakout star, showcasing his technical wrestling skills and charismatic personality. His feud with Bobby Roode for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship became a highlight of the era.
Feels like Trick Williams
* **The Formation of the TNA Gut Check Challenge:** TNA introduced the Gut Check Challenge, a reality-style competition designed to discover new talent. Several wrestlers, including Joey Ryan and Alex Silva, gained recognition through this platform.
This feels like the current NXT
* **The Claire Lynch Affair:** A controversial storyline involving AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, and a woman named Claire Lynch unfolded, with accusations of infidelity and paternity disputes. The angle divided fans and generated significant buzz.
Feels like Liv Morgan's revenge on Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio.
* **The Final Resolution of the Immortal Storyline:** The Immortal storyline reached its conclusion with Sting finally defeating Hulk Hogan and restoring order to TNA. This marked a turning point for the company as it sought to move beyond the Hogan era.
These storylines, along with the main ones previously mentioned, contributed to a diverse and engaging landscape in TNA during Bruce Prichard's tenure. The mix of established stars, emerging talents, and controversial angles created a unique and often unpredictable viewing experience for fans.
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Forbidden Feats and Ferocious Fights at AEW's Cross-Promotional Clash as AEW Forbidden Door 2024 was a night of shocking surprises, stunning showdowns, and scintillating skills as AEW and NJPW's top stars collided.
MJF continued his reign of terror, outsmarting Hechicero.
The Elite, a trio of unparalleled talent, triumphed over the fan-favorite Scissor Ace and the Acclaimed in a high-octane, six-man tag team spectacle.
The "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson roared to victory against the powerhouse Shingo Takagi, advancing in the Owen Hart Cup Tournament.
"Timeless" Toni Storm retained her AEW Women's World Championship against a valiant Mina Shirakawa, with Mariah May observing from ringside in a moment of poignant tension.
Zack Sabre Jr., a master of technical wizardry, outmaneuvered the unpredictable Orange Cassidy in a thrilling clash of styles.
The unlikely alliance of Samoa Joe, Hook, and Katsuyori Shibata harmonized their brutal styles to topple The Learning Tree and Jeff Cobb in a hard-hitting brawl.
In a chaotic ladder match, Jack Perry ascended to new heights, seizing the vacant AEW TNT Championship in a whirlwind of high-flying action.
Mercedes Moné unified the AEW TBS Championship and NJPW Strong Women's Championship in a Winner Takes All match against Stephanie Vaquer, solidifying her status as a global icon.
Tetsuya Naito, the leader of Los Ingobernables de Japon, dethroned Jon Moxley to claim the prestigious IWGP World Heavyweight Championship in a shocking upset.
In the main event, AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland defied the odds, retaining his title against the aerial artistry of Will Ospreay in a breathtaking display of athleticism and agility.
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